TDK adds power sink option to multi-kW dc PSUs

TDK is aiming at motor testing with the introduction of a power sinking option to 1.7 and 3.4kW models of its Genesys+ 1U-high rack-mount dc power supplies – it is only available for 0-20, 0-30, 0-40, 0-60 or 0-100V output versions.

Mounted internally, the sink module (photo below) can absorb 100W continuously and 300W of peak, and fall time can be as low as 12.5ms.

In operation, internal logic senses the output, and if the sensed voltage gets 5% or more higher than the desired voltage, the module sinks load current via the output terminals, aiming to maintain a constant load voltage.

It is “ideal for testing electric motors with pulse width modulated speed control that return power to their source under motor braking”, according to the company. “Examples include automotive electric windows, power mirrors and power seats.”

As well as absorbing energy from an external load, the additional module allows the power supply’s own output capacitors to be discharged more quickly – for example 25x quicker (from 310 to 12.5ms) in the G20-170 model. TDK sees this being useful in automated test equipment for reducing cycle times.

Genesys+ power supplies are designed to be used in parallel to increase current output, and series to increase voltage output. While the power sink module is not applicable to series connected units, it can be installed in all units connected in parallel.