SECTION 3: PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Entire Contents Copyright
2014 by Adaptive Power Systems, Inc. (APS) • All Rights Reserved • No reproduction without written authorization from APS.
42L Series Modular DC Load Operation Manual
Page 13 of 88
3
Product Overview
This chapter provides an overview of the APS 42L Series modular programmable DC loads. It
introduces the reader to general operating characteristics of these loads.
3.1
General Description
The APS 42L Series modular electronic loads are designed to perform test, evaluation and
burn-in of DC power supplies and batteries. The 42L Series differs from the 41L Series in
that each module has two input channels (dual channel) whereas the 41L Series is
comprised of a series of more conventional, single channel load modules. Thus, in addition
to addressing a 42L Series module with a channel reference, a CHA or CHB selection is
required to address one or the other channel. In all other respects, they are functionally
similar to 41L series modules.
The 42L Series of electronic load modules are operated from within a suitable mainframe.
The 44M01, 44M02 and 44M04 mainframes allow 1, 2 or 4 modules (2, 4 or 8 load channels)
to be operated at the same time. The mainframes provide the necessary mains power
conversion along with computer and analogue interfaces. Front panel memory store and
recall functions are provided. A total of 150 memory locations are available to store the set-
up of the load modules within a mainframe. It is also possible to program and recall a test
sequence consisting of different steps against time. Please refer to the separate 44M01,
44M02 and 44M04 operating manuals for the mainframe functions.
Mainframe model 44M01: P/N 160901-10
Mainframe model 44M02: P/N 160902-10
Mainframe model 44M04: P/N 160904-10
The APS 42L Series can be operated from the front panel (manual mode) or using RS232,
USB, LAN (Ethernet) or GPIB remote control.
The VI curve constant power contours of the various 42L Series modules are shown in the
Technical Specification Section. All models have dual range capability for enhanced accuracy
and resolution at lower power levels. Maximum current and power capability depends on
the specific module type.
3.2
Operating Modes
Available operating modes for all models are:
•
Constant Current (CC) mode
•
Constant Resistance (CR) mode
•
Constant Voltage (CV) mode
•
Constant Power (CP) mode.
A more detailed explanation of each mode and under what condition each mode is most
appropriate to use follows.
