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Using Agilent 668xA/669xA Series Power Supplies in Autoparallel

Introduction

This information is supplementary to the information in chapter 4.

A maximum of three Agilent 668xA/669xA series power supplies having the same model number, may be configured for autoparallel operation. The Agilent 668xA/669xA power supplies were designed with an external programming offset so that the master unit will output current before the slave units do. Therefore, slave supplies will always sink current when low output current values are desired.

Autoparallel Procedure

1.Connect the Agilent 668xA/669xA power supplies with the Im terminal from the master connected to the +Ip terminal of each slave. Connect the P terminal of the master to the -Ipterminal of each slave (see Figure 4-5e on page 81).

2.Each load lead should be of the same wire gauge and length.

3.Turn on all power supplies.

4.Program each slave supply for zero (0) output current either by pressing [CURRENT ] [0] [ENTER] from the front panel keypad or sending the command "CURR:LEV 0" via the GPIB (see notes 2 and 3 on the follwing page).

5.Program each slave's output voltage at least 2 volts higher than the output voltage that the master supply will be programmed to.

6.Program the master supply's output current for a value slightly greater than one-half of the total desired output current if there is one slave supply, or one-third of the total desired output current if there are two slave supplies.

7.Enable all power supplies by pressing the [Output On/Off ] key.

8.Increase the master supply's output voltage. At low output currents, the master unit will be supplying all of the load current and the slave supplies will be sinking current, which is normal. At maximum output current each supply will be delivering an equal amount of output current. When operating at less than maximum current, it is normal to have unequal current sharing between the master and slave supplies. Current sharing among the supplies only becomes equal at maximum output current (see Figure F-1 ).

9.For remote sensing, connect only the master supply's +S and -S lines. Slave supplies should be connected for local sensing at the rear of their respective output terminals.

Note 1

The current division between the master and slaves can be determined as follows:

 

Iout=Im [ 1 +Ns ( 1 +0.127V/5V)] - Ns Ifs (0.127V/5V)

The amount of current the master unit must output before the slave units will output current can be determined as follows: Ns * Ifs (0.127V/5V)

where Im = master current Ns = number of slaves Ifs = full scale current

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Agilent Technologies 669xA, 665xA, 664xA, 667xA, 668xA manual Introduction, Autoparallel Procedure

668xA, 669xA, 667xA, 664xA, 665xA specifications

Agilent Technologies has long been a pioneer in the production of high-performance electronic test and measurement instruments, particularly in the field of power sources. Among its notable offerings are the Agilent 667xA, 669xA, 665xA, 664xA, and 668xA series of power supplies. These instruments are designed to provide stable, reliable power for a variety of applications, including electronic testing, industrial processes, and research laboratories.

The Agilent 667xA series is characterized by its programmability and advanced measurement functions. These power supplies support a wide range of output voltages and currents, allowing for flexible configurations that cater to different testing needs. The built-in measurement capabilities enable users to monitor the voltage, current, and power with high precision, which is essential for ensuring optimal performance in electronic applications.

The Agilent 669xA series stands out with its high-power outputs, making it suitable for demanding applications. These power supplies deliver high voltage and current levels, making them ideal for testing high-performance devices, such as power amplifiers and motor drives. Additionally, the 669xA series includes features such as overvoltage protection and complex output sequencing to enhance the safety and reliability of the testing process.

The Agilent 665xA and 664xA series focus on delivering high accuracy and excellent regulation. These models are particularly known for their low noise operation, which is critical for sensitive applications where precision is paramount. The integrated programming capabilities allow users to automate testing sequences, thus improving efficiency in research and development settings.

The 668xA series features advanced digital signal processing that enhances the precision and stability of the output. Users benefit from features like remote sensing and monitoring, allowing feedback adjustments that maintain output accuracy despite cable losses. Furthermore, the 668xA models can integrate seamlessly with various test environments thanks to their LAN, GPIB, and USB connectivity options.

Overall, the Agilent 667xA, 669xA, 665xA, 664xA, and 668xA power supplies provide a comprehensive range of solutions for diverse electronic testing needs. With their advanced features, superb measurement capabilities, and robust performance, these instruments empower engineers and researchers to conduct their work with confidence, precision, and efficiency.