N36200 – Programmable Wide-Range DC Power Supply up to 10 kW

N36200 programmable DC power supply overview

The N36200 is a single-channel programmable DC power supply with a wide-range output for development, verification and automated test equipment. Models range from 500 W to 10 kW, with rated voltages from 20 V to 1,500 V. Rated currents reach up to 1,100 A depending on the model. These series maxima apply to different models and are not available simultaneously.

Constant voltage, constant current and constant power operation are combined with programmable sequences, charging functions and adjustable voltage and current transitions. Half-width and full-width 19-inch models in 1U or 2U formats support benchtop and rack use. An LCD, buttons and rotary encoder provide local operation; digital interfaces and PC software enable remote control. Remote sense measures voltage at the device under test. For higher current and power, units of the same model can operate in a master-slave parallel configuration.

Key benefits

Operating principle and wide-range characteristic

In CV operation, the source regulates output voltage; in CC operation, it regulates output current. CP mode sets an output power target with additional voltage and current limits. CV/CC priority determines which control loop takes priority during start-up.

The operating point follows P = U × I. For U > 0 within the permitted output range, I_max = min(I_rated, P_rated / U). Rated voltage and rated current therefore cannot generally be used simultaneously.

Example N36225-80-80: At 80 V, the 2,500 W power rating limits current to 31.25 A. The rated current of 80 A is mathematically available up to 31.25 V within the power limit.

Models and output ratings

All models have one output channel. The table lists rated values; the power limit also applies to each operating point.

Dynamic performance and regulation

Voltage and current transitions can be configured by transition time or slew rate. Achievable dynamic performance depends on the model, operating point and load. Rise time, fall time and transient recovery time are separate parameters.

For the N36225-20-275, voltage rise time is ≤10 ms at both no load and full load. Voltage fall time is ≤10 ms at full load and ≤300 ms at no load. Following a load change between 10% and 90%, output voltage recovers to within 0.5% of rated voltage around the setpoint in ≤5 ms. These values apply to this model.

N36225-20-275 example at 23 ±5 °C: voltage setting and readback accuracy are each ≤0.03% + 0.02% F.S.; current setting and readback accuracy are each ≤0.1% + 0.1% F.S. F.S. denotes the respective full-scale value. Measurement accuracy additionally applies within one year after calibration and at relative humidity up to 80%.

Operating modes and programmable functions

Typical applications

Interfaces, software and automation

Parallel operation and system integration

Units of the same model support master-slave parallel operation. One master transmits settings and acquires measurement data and operating status from the slaves. Output leads and the required communication links connect through COM1 or the PARA port, depending on the model.

The N362100-20-1100 supports a maximum of eight identical units in parallel. This limit does not automatically apply to other models. When using remote sense in parallel operation, only the master sense leads connect to the device under test. Suitable parallel cables and rack mounting kits are available as accessories.

Installation and infrastructure

Protection functions

Configurable protection functions monitor overvoltage, overcurrent and overpower as well as undervoltage and undercurrent. When protection trips, the output switches off and the protection status is displayed. Thresholds and timing parameters are provided for the respective functions. Internal overtemperature protection disables output if the device temperature becomes too high.

N36200 frequently asked questions