Programmable Power Supplies Information on GlobalSpec

Programmable power supplies are digitally controlled power sources that provide accurate and adjustable levels of voltage, current, and frequency. They include a processor, voltage/current programming circuits, current shunt, and voltage/current read-back circuits. Remote sensing functions compensate for voltage drops in the load leads by providing feedback of the actual voltage at the load. Over-voltage and over-current protection modes are also available. Comparators continuously monitor the output voltage against a program reference value. If the output value exceeds the reference value, a trigger signal is sent to a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) across the output, shutting off the source to the load. Most programmable power supplies are subjected to extensive testing and burn-in periods to ensure long-term performance.

Programmable power supplies can provide AC, DC, or both AC and DC outputs. Typically, AC outputs are either single-phase or three-phase. Single-phase power is often used for low voltage applications. Three-phase power is often used with high voltage power supplies. Waveform outputs include sine waves, square waves, and triangular waves. Important AC output specifications include output voltage, voltage accuracy, output frequency, and output current. Important DC output specifications include output voltage, voltage accuracy, current, and power. Apparent power is the product of the root mean square (RMS) current and the RMS voltage of the AC output. Efficiency is the AC output power divided by the input apparent power.

Programmable power supplies are available a variety of special features. Computer interfaces provide remote monitoring and control. Overcurrent protection is internal circuitry that limits or shuts down the current output during overcurrent conditions. Similarly, overvoltage protection limits or shuts down the voltage output during overvoltage conditions. Typically, overvoltage protection is provided for the primary output. Pure sine output produces a very high quality, pure sine waveform output. Short circuit protection may include electronic current limiting and thermal resets with automatic recovery. Temperature-compensated devices balance changes in temperature that can result in undesirable outputs.

Programmable power supplies are used in a variety of automated equipment testing, certification, and calibration applications. Devices that are capable of following complex output profiles are also used in highly specialized applications such as crystal growth and differential thermal analysis (DTA) at high pressures. Some programmable power supplies are modular, board-mounted, or include a floor-standing cabinet. Others are wall-mounted, floor-mounted, or sit on a desktop or shelf. Open-frame and enclosed units are also available. Programmable power supplies can include a serial interface such as general-purpose interface bus (GPIB) as well as integral software.

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Products & Services Related to Programmable Power Supplies

AC Power Sources

AC power sources provide alternating power and typically have adjustable output values for the testing of component response at various voltage, current and frequency levels.

AC-DC Adapters

AC-DC adapters accept AC input voltage directly from a wall outlet, and output DC voltage.

Current Sources

Current sources provide reliable current for electrical component testing and for powering specialized components.

DC Power Systems

DC power systems provide continuous DC power through multiple outputs. Most DC power systems include a battery backup, temperature compensation, and other features.

High Voltage Power Supplies

High voltage power supplies use linear technology to provide one or more DC outputs at voltage levels of hundreds or thousands of volts.

Medical Power Supplies

Medical power supplies produce conditioned outputs for medical devices, instruments, and equipment.

Power Rectifiers

Power rectifiers are electrical devices that convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). They are an integral part of telecom rectifiers for the telecommunications industry, and in battery chargers, DC power systems, and other power system devices.

Engineering Web: Programmable Power Supplies - TechBriefs

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