Sorensen introduces 500V MML electronic load

The Sorensen division of Elgar (San Diego, CA), a major supplier of power equipment to the semiconductor, telecommunications, and electronics markets, has added two new 500V modules to the MML series of modular medium power programmable DC electronic loads. These new 500V electronic loads are available in 300 and 600W configurations, and can operate down to 2.5V at the maximum current rating. The loads are ideal for testing PFC outputs, AC/DC converters, DC/DC converters, power storage devices, and electronic components.

Electronic systems continue to operate at increasingly higher speeds; consequently, power supplies and devices must perform with more dynamic load conditions. "Testing is very important to manufacturers and the best way to test a power supply is to determine all possible load conditions and then simulate them with a programmable load. Manufacturers can increase confidence in power supply performance by testing the supply over the full range of dynamic loading conditions," explained Don Novotny, Sorensen's corporate marketing manager.

Available in either 300W or 600W power configurations, the 500V MML series modules can be mounted in either a benchtop or 19-in rackmount chassis only seven in (4U) high. Each chassis has a resident controller. The rackmount configuration can house up to three load modules while the benchtop chassis accommodates two single bay modules. Individual MML modules can be synchronized or operated in parallel with other MML modules.

Sorensen's full line of MML modules include, 80V modules in three power levels of 100W by two (dual input), 300W, and 600W. The 500V modules are available in two power levels, 300W and 600W.

The MML loads can simulate a wide range of dynamic loading conditions and feature user programmable loading waveforms with adjustable slew rates, load levels, duration, and mode. Real-time measurement of voltage and current is built into each load module. Users can perform voltage measurements during a short circuit test. As with Sorensen's DC supplies, users can program the MML loads using the keypad or an RS 232 interface or an optional GPIB IEEE-488.2 interface.

Ten programs can be stored in EEPROM with up to 10 sequences per program for automated testing. Safety and reliability features include protection from overpower, overcurrent, overvoltage, overtemperature, and reverse polarity.

Applications for the MML loads include research and development evaluation, production and quality testing for makers and buyers of PFC corrected and non-corrected Switch Mode Power Supplies, DC/DC converters, battery chargers, and power adapters. Battery makers can use the devices to simplify discharge testing for a wide variety of batteries, while designers of computers, servers, uninterruptible power systems, military products, and other electronics can use the new devices for a range of engineering test and evaluation applications.

All MML loads are CE marked and have a one-year warranty. Starting price for the MML chassis is $930 and the starting price for the MML 500-volt modules is $1,970.

Sorensen, a division of Elgar, 9250 Brown Deer Road, San Diego, CA 92121. Tel: 800-525-2024 or 858-450-0085; Fax: 858-458-0267.

Edited by Paul O'Shea
Managing Editor, TestandMeasurement.com