Test & Measurement


Photovoltaic array simulators

14 October 2015 Test & Measurement

Recently dèbuted by Keysight Technologies were two photovoltaic array simulators, the N8937APV and N8957APV, to help engineers develop, verify and maximise the performance of inverter maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms and circuits.

Engineers need to ensure their solar inverters are capable of converting maximum power from the solar array to which they are connected, and developing and verifying the performance of inverter MPPT algorithms and circuits is challenging. MPPT algorithms are complex, and under-the-sun testing with a comprehensive set of temperature and irradiance conditions is difficult, expensive and time consuming.

Engineers can use the N8937APV and N8957APV photovoltaic (PV) array simulators in a laboratory or on a manufacturing line to simulate the output characteristics of a real-world array. They are auto-ranging, single-output, programmable DC power sources that can quickly simulate I-V curve characteristics under different environmental conditions (temperature, irradiance, age, cell technology and more), enabling engineers to quickly and comprehensively test their inverters.

The array simulators provide stable output power, built-in voltage and current measurements and auto-ranging output voltage and current from 500 to 1500 V and 10 to 30 A. The auto-ranging capability makes the units more flexible than traditional rectangular-output power supplies because they expand the power curve to provide more voltage and current combinations.

In addition to using the N8937/57APV units to simulate PV arrays, engineers can use them for other test and measurement tasks. They provide 15 kW programmable DC power for design verification and ATE applications that require just enough performance at an affordable price. Engineers can easily configure multiple units in parallel to create a single power supply that offers more than 90 kW of power.



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Compact high precision magnetometer
Future Electronics Test & Measurement
Bosch Sensortec has introduced the BMM350, a compact 16-bit, 3-axis magnetometer engineered to deliver high accuracy, low noise, and exceptional energy efficiency in space constrained designs.

Read more...
Ultra compact NTC thermistors
RS South Africa Test & Measurement
Murata Manufacturing Co. has expanded its compact NCU03 series of NTC thermistors with two ultra-small 0603M devices tailored for consumer and automotive designs.

Read more...
Omniflex uses LoRaWAN to track water usage
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists Test & Measurement
Omniflex has helped New South Wales Ports improve its ability to track water usage by installing remote monitoring to 38 water meters at its Port Kembla site, sending the data to the NSWPorts web portal.

Read more...
Surviving the extremes: Understanding shock and vibration in MEMS sensors
Altron Arrow Editor's Choice Test & Measurement
By considering factors such as mechanical headroom, damping, and system-level robustness, designers can ensure that the chosen sensor not only survives, but performs reliably over time.

Read more...
Advanced pressure monitoring sensor
EBV Electrolink Test & Measurement
The Infineon KP497 is an advanced, highly integrated digital pressure sensor designed for demanding automotive and industrial applications, with a particular focus on battery management systems.

Read more...
Slimline 150 W bench PSU
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The PeakTech P 6222 is the company’s new, slim laboratory power supply that offers precisely adjustable output values of 30 V and 5 A with a continuous power output of 150W.

Read more...
Redefining edge intelligence in RF analysis
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The HAROGIC PXR Series bridges the gap between benchtop-grade RF performance and high-performance edge computing.

Read more...
Otto Wireless appointed as sole agent for Dragino Technology
Otto Wireless Solutions Test & Measurement
Dragino is a globally recognised leader in LoRaWAN and Internet of Things products and solutions, and is known for delivering reliable, cost-effective hardware.

Read more...
AI-ready rugged spectrum analysis for the field
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The HAROGIC PXR Series is a rugged, benchtop-grade spectrum analyser and an AI-ready open platform in a single portable instrument.

Read more...
Digid announces its nanoscale temperature and force sensors are ready for mass deployment
Test & Measurement
Digid, a pioneer of nanoscale sensing technology, recently announced that its patented printed electronics fabrication technology has been fully qualified for volume production of temperature and force sensors as small as 1 µm long.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved