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Registered Member #30
Joined: Fri Feb 03 2006, 10:52AM
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Posts: 6706
When testing a new power electronic circuit, I always start with a bench power supply, then an isolating transformer and variac, before plugging directly into the mains.
While raising the voltage I keep an eye on important waveforms with a scope, to look for any signs of misbehaviour. If I spot anything weird, I stop and don't raise the voltage any further until I find an explanation for it and fix it. The final plugging-in is usually uneventful, but I wear safety goggles anyway.
I now have a 0-600V, 1kW lab power supply which does away with the need for the variac, but the basic principle is the same.
Registered Member #15
Joined: Thu Feb 02 2006, 01:11PM
Location:
Posts: 3068
Yes - good tips Steve.
Yeah, when i test a new power circuit, i usually do the following:
1. Apply housekeeping power only. Check the control IC (PWM etc...) to make sure its oscillating and doing what its supposed to do.
2. Disconnect feedback loop if there is one. Operate the power circuit in open loop using a function generator (for DRSSTC) or external supply (power supply) to make sure the unit runs in open loop properly.
3. Then i'll do the open loop testing with an external supply as Steve noted starting with low voltage and gradually increasing - verifying proper waveforms and behavior each step of the way.
4. Next, i'll close the loop. And do close loop tests using external power supply.
5. If its a power supply, at this point i'll actually take a BODE plot of the loop to ensure stability and that my compensation of circuit matches what i predicted in mathcad or PSPICE. This is usually done with an external supply and with a resistive load (DC)
5. Finally, i'll clean up the loop, make adjustments if i need to, and then connect the power circuit to the intended power source (i.e. line) and then do both whatever testing is necessary.
I now have a 0-600V, 1kW lab power supply which does away with the need for the variac, but the basic principle is the same.
Nice is it ac or dc? I've been thinking about building an smps for my sstc to avoid having to find a veriac and if I ever get around to it I will probably also build a DC-AC. converter to go with it do you think it is worth effort?
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finding a SSTC schematic
