Local Operation
Using Multiple Supplies
Release 3.1
67
Configuring
Multiple
Supplies for
Parallel
Operation
Use parallel operation to obtain a higher current through a single output using two or
more supplies. Set all of the OVP setpoints to maximum. (See “Using Over Voltage
Protection (OVP)” on page 61.) Set all of the outputs to the same voltage before
connecting the positive (+) output terminals and negative (–) output terminals in
parallel. See Figure 3.3. The total current available is the sum of the maximum
currents of each supply.
When operating multiple supplies in parallel, the operating mode of each supply
depends on the load current being drawn. For example, with two 40 V, 30 A model
power supplies operating in parallel with a 50 A load, one supply operates in
constant current mode supplying 30 A and the other supply operates in voltage mode
supplying the remaining 20 A. The level of current sharing between units depends
on how accurately the output voltages are matched.
Sensing for Parallel Operation
Use default local sensing to enhance power
sharing between units, as the impedance of the load lines will tend to correct for
current imbalance. If you use remote sensing at the load for better voltage regulation,
one supply always operates in current limit mode and supplies most of the power.
Figure 3.3
Parallel Operation of Multiple Supplies
(Local sense lines shown are default J10 connections.)
Note
If you do not fix the OVP setpoints at maximum, the OVP circuit may trip on one
unit, reducing the current available to the load.
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