Simulators – Generate AC/DC Test Conditions with Precision

Simulators for AC/DC Test Benches, Grid Simulation and PV Tests

Simulators generate electrical conditions in the test bench that are difficult to reproduce in a targeted way during real operation. They simulate grids, electrical sources and energy flows in a controlled manner. This allows devices under test to be tested under clearly defined operating conditions.

AC or DC waveforms can be precisely set, repeated and evaluated with measurement data. Depending on the simulator, bidirectional energy flows can also be tested, for example when the device under test feeds energy back or absorbs it. This shows how a device under test reacts to critical operating conditions.

Typical areas of application include power supplies, inverters, energy storage systems, chargers, PV systems and power electronic assemblies.

Grid Simulation for AC Tests

Grid simulators provide a defined AC grid in the test bench. They specifically vary voltage, frequency or waveform and reproduce different grid events, such as voltage dips, frequency jumps or harmonics.

This makes it possible to check how the device under test reacts to deviating grid conditions. It shows whether the control system remains stable, limits are maintained and protection functions trip correctly.

DC Simulation for DC Sources and PV Applications

DC simulators provide defined DC voltage and DC current conditions. They are used when DC inputs and outputs of a device under test need to be tested under variable conditions.

This allows tests on batteries, fuel cells, electrolysers, DC/DC converters, chargers and DC links, for example. Renewable energy systems can also be simulated in the test bench, for example using variable voltage, current or power profiles.

When source and sink operation are required in a DC test setup, the ITECH IT-M3900C Series can also be a suitable solution.

For photovoltaic applications, PV simulators are used. They provide the electrical behavior of solar modules under changing irradiance and temperature. This allows PV inverters, MPPT controllers and DC interfaces to be tested reproducibly.

Bidirectional Simulators and Regeneration

Bidirectional simulators are used when a device under test can absorb or feed back energy. This is relevant, for example, for grid-connected inverters, battery storage systems, bidirectional chargers or regenerative drive systems.

Regenerative simulators do not simply convert the energy absorbed in sink mode into heat. They actively feed this energy back and thereby reduce waste heat and cooling requirements in the test bench. For pure load simulation with energy absorption, the ITECH IT8000 Series can also be useful.

Selection Criteria for Simulators

Important factors include current type, power range, dynamics, accuracy and regenerative capability. The simulator should also support the required test profiles, interfaces and protection functions for the existing test bench.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Simulators

What is a simulator in test and measurement systems?

A simulator reproduces electrical conditions in the test bench. It replaces real grids, electrical sources or environmental conditions with defined test profiles that can be measured, documented and compared.

What are grid simulators used for?

Grid simulators reproduce defined AC grid conditions, such as voltage dips, frequency deviations or regenerative operation. This makes it possible to test how stable a device under test remains when exposed to grid events.

When do you need a DC simulator?

A DC simulator is used when a device under test needs to operate under defined DC voltage or DC current conditions. It is particularly suitable for tests with variable input values, output conditions or dynamic DC profiles.

What does a PV simulator do?

A PV simulator behaves at its DC output like a solar module under defined conditions. This allows current-voltage characteristics, changing irradiance and the MPPT behavior of inverters to be tested in a targeted way.

What does bidirectional mean for simulators?

Bidirectional means that a simulator can provide and absorb energy. This allows energy flows in both directions to be tested.

Does bidirectional automatically mean regenerative?

No. Regenerative means that absorbed energy is actively fed back instead of being completely lost as heat. Whether a bidirectional simulator is regenerative depends on the device type.

What makes simulators from LXinstruments special?

LXinstruments offers simulators for demanding AC and DC test tasks in development, production and quality assurance. The focus is on reproducible test conditions, reliable integration into existing test systems and a suitable configuration for the respective device under test.

Simulators from LXinstruments

Simulators from LXinstruments combine precise test technology with practical system integration. The portfolio includes solutions for grid simulation, DC tests, PV applications as well as bidirectional and regenerative test tasks. The devices help development departments, test laboratories and production areas reproduce critical operating conditions in a controlled way and reliably evaluate measurement results.

Product Portfolio and Benefits at a Glance

• Simulators for AC and DC test conditions
• Grid simulators for defined AC grid conditions
• DC and PV simulators for DC and photovoltaic tests
• Bidirectional and regenerative systems for modern energy flows
• Interfaces and software functions for automated test benches
• Support with selection, integration and system design

Contact and Consultation

Our expert team advises companies, research institutions, universities and technical development departments on simulators for AC and DC test tasks – from device selection to integration into the test bench.

Contact:
+49 (0)7032 89592-3

Would you like to buy a simulator? Together, we will find the suitable solution for your AC or DC test task.