Saelig Introduces Compact Electronic DC Load With Optional Remote Control Capabilities

Programmable 400 watt electronic DC load with a full range of control functionality, ideal for evaluating DC power sources, batteries, solar cells, and electronic power supply units. 

Fairport, NY - Saelig Company, Inc. has announced the availability of Aim-TTi’s LD400, a compact electronic DC load that features optional remote control capabilities. The LD400 is a versatile 400 watt programmable electronic DC load with a full range of control functionality. This inexpensive electronic test load is ideal for evaluating and characterizing a wide variety of DC power sources, such as batteries and solar cells, as well as electronic power supply units. The LD400’s wide voltage/current range, multiple operating modes and built-in transient generator give it the versatility to offer test solutions from the design laboratory through to the component test area. The LD400P version adds full bus remote control via USB, RS-232, GPIB and LAN (Ethernet) interfaces.

The LD400 can operate at voltages below 500mV for currents up to 10 amps. At higher currents the minimum remains below 1 volt up to 40 amps and below 2 volts up to 80 amps. This low operating voltage allows it to be used for many low voltage applications for which other electronic loads are unsuitable. The LD400 can operate at power levels up to 600 watts for periods of up to 1 minute. Short term loading can be sufficient for many testing applications and significantly expands the usefulness of the LD400. Maximum voltage and current are 80V and 80A with a maximum continuous power capability of 400 watts, and a short term capability of 600 watts. An adjustable drop-out voltage can be set for testing batteries.

The LD400 incorporates a full variable frequency / variable duty cycle transient generator. Switching between the two preset levels can be done at any frequency between 0.01Hz and 10kHz. The transient generator can be used in all operating modes. The rate of change between levels (slew rate) is controllable over a wide range. Slew rate control applies to all changes of level including remote control and manual changes between level A and level B. A slow-start function can be selected for situations where latching would otherwise occur at switch-on. Operating modes include constant current, resistance, conductance, voltage and power. Thirty non-volatile memory locations are provided which can store all of the parameters of the load. This makes the LD400P particularly suitable for repetitive test use.

The LD400 and LD400P use a half-rack 3U case style similar to its predecessor, the LD300. The large backlit graphic LCD with soft-key control enables a quick and intuitive control system to be incorporated.  Storage for 30 non-volatile settings allow existing test set-ups to be stored and recalled as required, making the unit suitable for repetitive testing.  The LD400P version includes a full set of digital bus control interfaces including USB, RS232, GPIB and LXI compliant LAN. The remote control function includes analog, USB, RS232, GPIB and LXI-compliant LAN interfaces. Local front-panel control is via a large graphic LCD with soft keys. Parameters can be entered using a numeric keypad or changed with a spin wheel.

The wide voltage and current range, comprehensive remote control and built-in functions combined with a low purchase price make the LD400 and LD400P attractive solutions for many power testing requirements.  Made by Aim-TTi, a leading European test equipment manufacturer, the LD400 and LD400P are available now from Saelig Company, Inc. Fairport, NY.

For more information, visit www.saelig.com.