Each channel reproduces defined cell voltages and current flow during charging and discharging.
N8336 – Battery Simulator with 16 Isolated Channels
For precise cell-voltage profiles and quiescent-current measurements in compact multichannel test systems.
Separate high- and low-current measurement ranges combine ampere-level channel operation with 10 nA resolution in the 1 mA range. Dynamic channel currents and very small quiescent currents can therefore be captured within the same test configuration.
Capacity, voltage, current limits, internal resistance and dwell times can be programmed in multistep test procedures.
Three standard interfaces support remote control, automated sequences and integration into ATE systems.
Communication response across the complete channel set is no more than 10 ms.
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Description
N8336-06-01 Ultra-high accuracy 16-channel battery simulator, 6 V, 1 A, 6 W per channel, 2U
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Current [A]
1
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Power [P]
6
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Voltage [V]
6
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Technical Data
Design
Standard 19"
Height
2
Interfaces / Protocols
max. current per channel
max. power per channel
max. voltage per channel
Number of channels
16
Product category
Battery Cell Simulators
Type of Batterycellsimulator
> 10 Channels
Uni-/Bidirectional
Unidirectional
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Description
N8336-05-03 Ultra-high accuracy 16-channel battery simulator, 5 V, 3 A, 15 W per channel, 2U
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Current [A]
3
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Power [P]
15
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Voltage [V]
5
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Technical Data
Design
Standard 19"
Height
2
Interfaces / Protocols
max. current per channel
max. power per channel
max. voltage per channel
Number of channels
16
Product category
Battery Cell Simulators
Type of Batterycellsimulator
> 10 Channels
Uni-/Bidirectional
Unidirectional
N8336 overview
Two programmable models are available for BMS, CMS and electronic-device testing. The N8336-06-01 provides up to 6 V, 1 A and 6 W per channel, while the N8336-05-03 provides up to 5 V, 3 A and 15 W per channel. Both versions integrate 16 mutually isolated channels into a compact 19-inch, 2U enclosure. The channels operate as precise cell-voltage sources and also support charge, SOC and sequence testing. A separate measurement range up to 1 mA captures very small currents with 10 nA resolution. Voltage programming and readback resolution are 10 µV. LAN, isolated RS485 and CAN support integration into automated test systems. Typical applications include battery management systems, cell monitoring, portable electronics, energy-storage systems and calibration of multichannel voltage-acquisition equipment.
Key benefits
Precise voltage programming
Resolution of 0.01 mV and programming and readback accuracy of 0.001% + 0.1 mV support accurate cell-voltage testing.
Low quiescent-current measurement
The additional range up to 1 mA captures small standby and quiescent currents with 0.01 µA resolution.
High channel density
Up to 16 test channels in one compact 19-inch instrument reduce equipment count, rack space and wiring effort.
Fast voltage rise
The output voltage reaches a new operating point within no more than 25 ms under no-load and full-load conditions.
Isolated test channels
Channel isolation supports multicell test arrangements and series-connected individual cell voltages.
Long-term setpoint stability
Long-term stability of 40 ppm per 1,000 hours supports repeatable measurement and validation procedures.
Battery-simulation operating principle
Each channel generates an independently adjustable cell voltage and monitors voltage, current and power. Programmable current limits keep the operating point within the defined test conditions. A simulated internal resistance from 0 to 100 mΩ can be added for more representative cell models.
Regulated source operation
In Source mode, the selected channel operates as a constant-voltage source with programmable output-current limiting and automatic range selection.
Charge and discharge simulation
Charge mode reproduces current flow in both directions and the voltage drop across an adjustable cell resistance.
Capacity-dependent characteristic
Capacity, open-circuit voltage, current limits and internal resistance can be stored step by step and executed during an SOC test.
Time-based cell profiles
Sequences automatically change voltage, current limiting and internal resistance according to defined dwell times and repetitions.
Models and technical specifications
Model selection is primarily determined by the required cell voltage and maximum channel current. Both instruments provide the same channel count, programmable functions and comparable voltage accuracy.
| Specification | N8336-06-01 | N8336-05-03 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 16 | 16 |
| Voltage range per channel | 0 to 6 V | 0 to 5 V |
| Maximum current per channel | 1 A | 3 A |
| Power per channel | 6 W | 15 W |
| High-current measurement range | 0 to 1 A | 0 to 3 A |
| Low-current measurement range | 0 to 1 mA | 0 to 1 mA |
| Voltage resolution | 0.01 mV | 0.01 mV |
| Voltage accuracy at 23 ± 5 °C | 0.001% + 0.1 mV | 0.001% + 0.1 mV |
| High-current range resolution | 0.01 mA | 0.01 mA |
| Low-current range resolution | 0.01 µA | 0.01 µA |
| High-current range accuracy at 23 ± 5 °C | 0.001% + 0.5 mA | 0.001% + 1.5 mA |
| Low-current range accuracy at 23 ± 5 °C | 0.001% + 0.5 µA | 0.001% + 0.5 µA |
| Voltage ripple and noise, 20 Hz to 20 MHz | ≤2 mV RMS | ≤2 mV RMS |
| Voltage temperature coefficient | 10 ppm/°C | 10 ppm/°C |
| Current temperature coefficient | 20 ppm/°C | 20 ppm/°C |
| Long-term stability | 40 ppm/1,000 h | 40 ppm/1,000 h |
Dynamic performance and regulation
Short rise times support rapid changes of cell-voltage setpoints and reduce waiting periods in automated test sequences. Low output noise reproduces a stable DC cell voltage without superimposed mains-frequency or switching-frequency ripple.
| Dynamic specification | N8336-06-01 | N8336-05-03 |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage rise time, 10 to 90%, no load | ≤25 ms | ≤25 ms |
| Voltage rise time, 10 to 90%, full load | ≤25 ms | ≤25 ms |
| Voltage fall time, 90 to 10%, no load | ≤3 s | ≤3 s |
| Voltage fall time, 90 to 10%, full load | ≤30 ms | ≤10 ms |
The fall time depends strongly on the load condition. The connected load or current consumption of the device under test should therefore be considered when defining the timing of dynamic test procedures.
Operating modes and programmable functions
| Function | Configuration | Practical use |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Constant voltage, current measurement range and output-current limit | Supplying individual BMS or CMS measurement inputs with a defined cell voltage. |
| Charge | Voltage, current limit and simulated internal resistance from 0 to 100 mΩ | Reproducing the electrical behaviour of a cell during charging and discharging. |
| SOC Edit and SOC Test | Up to 8 files with up to 200 steps per file | Simulation of capacity-dependent changes in cell voltage and internal resistance. |
| SEQ Edit and SEQ Test | Up to 10 files with up to 600 steps per file, dwell times and loops | Automatic voltage profiles, limit changes and repeatable functional tests. |
| Graph | Graphical display of active measurement values | Observation of dynamic voltage and current curves during testing. |
| All CH | Combined overview of voltage, current, power and channel status | Rapid monitoring of complete multichannel test configurations. |
Typical applications
The high channel density and combination of cell-voltage programming, current measurement and programmable profiles support development, validation and production of multichannel electronic systems.
BMS testing for automotive and e-mobility
Simulated cell voltages supply battery-management-system inputs and enable repeatable plausibility, threshold and balancing tests.
Cell-monitoring and CMS systems
Multiple isolated channels reproduce a complete cell stack and test the parallel acquisition of many individual cell voltages.
Battery systems for UAVs, drones and eVTOL
SOC and sequence profiles test cell monitoring, threshold detection and responses to dynamic voltage curves in lightweight energy-storage systems.
Portable consumer electronics
Precise voltage programming and low-current measurement support testing of smartphones, Bluetooth earphones, smartwatches and power tools.
Production and end-of-line testing
Fast multichannel control enables parallel testing of several assemblies and automated setpoint and threshold procedures.
Calibration of voltage-acquisition systems
Precise, independently adjustable channels provide reference signals for multichannel voltage-measurement equipment and fuel-cell voltage monitors.
Interfaces, software and automation
The N8336 series can be operated locally using the display, buttons and rotary control or remotely within an automated test system. Multichannel overviews, real-time curves and programmable procedures support complex testing configurations.
| Function | Implementation | Integration benefit |
|---|---|---|
| LAN | Standard interface, default IP address 192.168.0.123 | Network-based remote control and integration into PC-controlled test systems. |
| RS485 | Isolated standard interface, baud rates from 9,600 to 115,200 baud | Robust bus communication with an adjustable device address. |
| CAN | Standard interface with adjustable CAN ID, baud rate and cyclic data upload | Integration into CAN-based development, production and BMS test environments. |
| Remote commands | Programmable commands for Source, Charge, SOC and SEQ functions | Automation of setpoints, file selection, channel status and measurement queries. |
| PC application software | Multichannel operation, automated tests and graphical measurement display | Central control of complex procedures using multiple channels or instruments. |
| Sampling speed | Fast 10 ms, medium 120 ms or slow 480 ms | Adapts measurement updates to dynamic tests or stable long-term measurements. |
| Communication response | ≤10 ms for the complete 16-channel set | Short control and query cycles in automated multichannel tests. |
Series operation and scaling
The isolated channels can be connected in series to reproduce multicell battery strings. Multiple instruments can also be integrated into a common test configuration and remotely controlled through the application software. Cell stacks with more than 16 measurement points can therefore be created without manually adjusting each individual channel.
The permissible total voltage of a series connection must be determined for the individual project based on the isolation ratings, ground references, wiring and requirements of the device under test. Longer cell strings require verification of the complete connection and safety concept.
Installation and infrastructure
| Installation specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Form factor | 19-inch, 2U |
| Dimensions | 88 × 482 × 557 mm including handles |
| Net weight | Approx. 20 kg |
| AC input | Single-phase, 220 V AC ±10%, less than 2 A, 47 to 63 Hz |
| Operating temperature | 0 to 40 °C |
| Storage temperature | −20 to 60 °C |
| Relative humidity | 5 to 90% RH, non-condensing |
| Operating altitude | Below 2,000 m |
| Atmospheric pressure | 80 to 110 kPa |
| Instrument fuse | 250 V, 10 A, 20 × 5 mm ceramic fuse |
| Cooling | Air cooling; air inlets and outlets must remain unobstructed. |
Isolation and safe operation
| Specification | Rating or requirement |
|---|---|
| Output-to-ground isolation | 1,000 V DC |
| Channel-to-channel isolation | 500 V DC |
| Maximum voltage at the channel connector | Do not exceed 1.5 times the rated voltage of the respective channel. |
| Maximum current at the channel connector | Do not exceed the rated current of the respective channel. |
| Protective earth | The instrument must be reliably connected to protective earth before operation. |
| Service access | The enclosure may only be opened and serviced by qualified personnel. |
Before connecting the device under test, verify channel voltage, current limits, polarity and ground references. Fuses may only be replaced while the instrument is disconnected from power and must be replaced with the same specified type.
N8336 series FAQ
Which model is suitable for higher cell voltages?
The N8336-06-01 provides up to 6 V and 1 A per channel. The N8336-05-03 provides up to 5 V and higher current up to 3 A per channel.
Can the N8336 series simulate charging and discharging conditions?
Yes. Source and Charge modes reproduce defined cell voltages and current flow during charging and discharging.
Can very small quiescent currents be measured?
Yes. The separate 0 to 1 mA measurement range provides resolution of 0.01 µA, equivalent to 10 nA.
How many programmable steps are available?
SOC profiles support up to 200 steps per file. SEQ profiles provide up to 600 steps per file, including dwell times and loops.
Can multiple channels be connected in series?
Yes. The isolated channels support series connections for multicell battery strings. The permissible total voltage must be determined for the individual test configuration.
Which communication interfaces are available?
LAN, isolated RS485 and CAN are provided as standard. They support automation of channels, setpoints, test profiles and measurement queries.
Is the instrument suitable for 19-inch test racks?
Yes. The enclosure is 482 mm wide and 2U high. The instrument depth is 557 mm.
How quickly can the cell voltage be changed?
Voltage rise time is no more than 25 ms under no-load and full-load conditions. Fall time depends on the model and load condition.
Technical consultation and project enquiry
Are you planning a BMS, CMS, battery or electronic-device test system and need to define the channel count, voltage range, current range or series connection?
ET System supports model selection, cell-stack configuration, interface integration and implementation in automated test procedures.
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