Low-Profile Programmable DC Supplies Pack A Punch

Aug. 16, 2012
TDK-Lambda’s Z+ series programmable dc 400-W components set a benchmark for freeing up bench and rack space while boosting power density.

Not long ago, 400-W dc power supplies were considered compact if they took up just two rack spaces—and if only two people were required to lift them, install them, or remove them from a rack. Now the race is on to require less space, efficiently deliver more power, trim costs, and eliminate back pain.

TDK-Lambda’s Z+ series programmable dc 400-W components set a benchmark first for freeing up bench and rack space (see the figure). The units are 33% smaller and 40% lighter than Lambda’s previous generation, the ZUP series, as well as comparable components on the market.

TDK-Lambda’s Z+ series 400-W, programmable benchtop and rack-mountable dc power supplies are 33% smaller and 40% lighter than previous ZUP series components.

These high-density, high-efficiency, 2U format, benchtop and rack-mountable supplies are designed for an array of automated test equipment (ATE), laboratory, and OEM applications such as test and measurement, semiconductor burn-in, LED/laser testing, RF amplifiers, and electromagnetic and electrochemical applications.

Delivering 400 W of output power with an output voltage range from 0 to 100 V dc and output currents up to 40 A, the Z+ series also represents a 49% increase in power density over the previous generation. Standard models in the series measure 3.27-in. high and 2.76-in. wide, allowing for the installation of as many as six units in a 19-in. rack.

Higher power is achieved by connecting Z+ units in parallel with active current sharing.  In master/slave parallel configurations, the master unit reports total system output current, meaning all units appear as a single power supply to the remote controller. Users can connect up to two Z+ supplies in series to boost output voltage or create bipolar outputs.

All Z+ series models operate in either a constant-current or constant-voltage mode from an 85-V ac to 265-V ac input. They provide active power factor correction, variable-speed fans, plus user-selectable safe start and auto-restart. Safe start returns the supply to its last settings after power interruption, but with the output disabled. Auto restart resumes normal supply operation without intervention after a power interruption.

The Z+ programmable power supplies offer a wealth of extra features that extend their viability for diverse applications. These include separate, four-digit volt/current displays, arbitrary-function generation, six storable pre-programmed functions, output sequencing, two programmable output pins, and USB, RS-232, and RS-485 interfaces.

Options for the series include other digital and isolated analog interfaces including an LXI Class C compliant local-area network (LAN) interface, a 19-in. rack with blanking plates for unused slots, assorted options for front panel output-jacks, and multiple-unit housings for bench-top applications. Pricing starts at $1460 each.

A datasheet is available at http://us.tdk-lambda.com/lp/ftp/Specs/zpluslv.pdf. Application notes and user manuals are available at http://us.tdk-lambda.com/lp/technical/zplus-series.htm.

TDK-Lambda

Sponsored Recommendations

Understanding Thermal Challenges in EV Charging Applications

March 28, 2024
As EVs emerge as the dominant mode of transportation, factors such as battery range and quicker charging rates will play pivotal roles in the global economy.

Board-Mount DC/DC Converters in Medical Applications

March 27, 2024
AC/DC or board-mount DC/DC converters provide power for medical devices. This article explains why isolation might be needed and which safety standards apply.

Use Rugged Multiband Antennas to Solve the Mobile Connectivity Challenge

March 27, 2024
Selecting and using antennas for mobile applications requires attention to electrical, mechanical, and environmental characteristics: TE modules can help.

Out-of-the-box Cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity with AWS IoT ExpressLink

March 27, 2024
This demo shows how to enroll LTE-M and Wi-Fi evaluation boards with AWS IoT Core, set up a Connected Health Solution as well as AWS AT commands and AWS IoT ExpressLink security...

Comments

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Electronic Design, create an account today!