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California Instruments FX Series : Features
 

Key Features

  • Precision Voltage and Current Source
  • 4500VA to 13500VA Output
  • Single & Three Phase Configurations
  • Computer Control for Automated Systems Remote programming and collection of measurement data
  • Separate Single Phase Outputs of up to 200A and 270V (L-N) Simulation of power levels up to 54 KW
  • Multiple Chassis Configurations for Two & Three Phase Systems Power level simulation up to 162 KW for three phase operation
  • Independent Full Capability Measurement System Monitors load parameters without additional instrumentation
  • Simulate True Power
  • Great for Testing Watt-Hour Meters
 
Features Details

Single Phase Systems
A single chassis includes a 1500 VA voltage source with 270V output (optional 312V L-N) and a 200 A Current Source, which is derived from exactly the same master oscillator as the voltage source. This means that the voltage and current outputs are at precisely the same frequency, although the phase relationship between the two may be varied to simulate different load power factors.

Multi-Phase Systems
For either two or three phase systems, additional chassis are added. The individual oscillators are clocked from a single master, with a phase lock to ensure phase angle integrity. In multi-phase systems, the phase angle of the voltage may be varied independently as well as the phase angle between the voltage and current source for each phase.

The system can simulate two or three-phase outputs with a different P.F. on each phase. This is extremely important when evaluating measurement or control scenarios for multi-phase systems with unbalanced loads.

Wide Range Current Source
Whether the application is power simulation or just AC current, the FX Series provides a very wide range of controllable constant current output from 20 mA to 200 A. The current source section features three ranges to ensure good resolution at low current settings. In fact, the 2 A range is usable down to 20 mA. The 20 A to 200 A output is available via bus bar outputs, whereas outputs below 20 A are available at the rear panel barrier strip.

Fully Independent Measurement Capability
It is often difficult to provide accurate measurement capability at high power levels. In addition to the basic accuracy of the source, the FX Series provides a fully independent measurement system that may be used to verify the output settings or determine the load characteristics.

This independent measurement system is included in each controller, which means that independent and simultaneous monitoring of each phase is possible. The parameter that is displayed on the front panel of the source may be selected manually or by computer control. All measurement parameters may be interrogated by a computer controller.

Full Programmability
The entire system, either single or multi-phase, is programmed from a computer controller. The most popular control architecture is the IEEE-488 bus. However, other systems such as RS232C and VXI can be accommodated using a simple protocol translator. All set up parameters, such as Voltage, Current, Frequency and Phase Angle may be controlled. Additionally, in multi-phase systems the relative angle between phases can also be changed between 0° and 359°.

Measurement parameters may be selected and the result displayed on the front panel, output to the computer, or a combination of both. Computer control is particularly useful for the collection and tabulation of test results over a series of different conditions such as temperature, load or frequency. Graphical user interface programs are ideal for changing test requirements.

High Efficiency Design
The FX Series uses a pulse width modulated conversion technique which is extremely efficient and allows the single phase system to be packaged in just 10.5 inches of rack space at a weight of only 165 lb (75.2 kg). Additional benefits are: a) that the unit uses less power than traditional linear systems, and b) unit generates less heat.

Covers-on Calibration
Although periodic calibration is necessary for any precision system, down time and  interference with the production or engineering evaluation operation can be disruptive. The FX Series however, allows routine calibration to be performed either from the front panel or via the IEEE-488 bus. Disruption is minimized and full calibration can be achieved in minutes.

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