Power module / Sources / Sinks

NXI power modules integrate programmable DC sources, electronic DC sinks or loads, and analog outputs directly into the modular NXI platform. They can power devices under test, simulate defined electrical load conditions, and generate analog control or sensor signals within compact automated test systems.

The portfolio includes the programmable DC source modules of the NXI-3106 series with up to 60 W per channel, CC/CV regulation, and sequence functions. Electronic load modules of the NXI-3201 series absorb defined current or power from the device under test. The NXI-6200 and NXI-6201 analog output modules generate programmable voltage and current signals with 16-bit resolution.

Combining these modules with NXI measurement and control chassis, DAQ and measurement modules, and digital I/O modules provides scalable solutions for component testing, sensor and actuator simulation, end-of-line testing, and industrial automated test equipment.

How to Select an NXI Power Module

Selecting a suitable NXI power module starts with the required direction of energy flow. The first question is whether the device under test must be powered, electrically loaded, or controlled by an analog voltage or current signal. Voltage, current, power, channel count, dynamic performance, and regulation accuracy can then be defined.

• Source, sink, or analog output: A programmable DC source supplies the device under test with a defined voltage or current. An electronic load absorbs energy from the DUT and simulates electrical load behavior. Analog output modules generate lower-power control, setpoint, or sensor signals.
• Voltage, current, and power: Determine the required voltage and current combinations throughout the complete test sequence. The maximum specified voltage and maximum current may not be available simultaneously at every operating point. The permissible operating range of the module must therefore be considered.
• Channel count and independent control: Define how many DUTs or circuits must be powered or loaded in parallel. Check whether each channel can be independently configured, measured, and switched off, and whether any common module limits apply.
• Control and operating modes: Constant-voltage and constant-current operation (CV and CC) are particularly relevant for DC source modules. Depending on the electronic load module, constant-current, constant-voltage, constant-power, or constant-resistance operation may be required. Verify which modes are supported by the selected module.
• Dynamic performance: Rise time, fall time, regulation speed, and settling behavior are important for power-up tests, load steps, and dynamic test profiles. An integrated sequence function can be useful for repeatable automated test procedures.
• Accuracy and resolution: Compare programming accuracy, measurement accuracy, and resolution for voltage and current. For small signals, the offset, noise, and temperature stability of the complete measurement and power system should also be considered.
• Analog voltage and current signals: NXI-6200 and NXI-6201 modules are intended for generating programmable analog signals. Check the output range, resolution, channel count, permissible load, and required update rate. These modules are designed for signal generation rather than use as high-power supplies.
• Minimum operating voltage of the sink: Electronic load modules require a minimum input voltage to absorb the full programmed current. This is particularly relevant for low-voltage applications, fuel cells, individual battery cells, or components with a low output voltage.
• Protection and output behavior: Consider overvoltage, overcurrent, overpower, and overtemperature protection. Also verify how the output behaves during power-up, communication failure, or activation of a protection function.
• Isolation and reference potentials: Check whether the channels must be isolated from one another, from system ground, or from protective earth. Suitable isolation is particularly important when several circuits with different reference potentials are tested simultaneously.
• Triggering and synchronization: Power profiles, measurement acquisition, and digital control signals must be synchronized for time-coordinated test sequences. Power modules can be combined with NXI DAQ modules and digital NXI I/O modules.
• Chassis and thermal design: Power modules generate heat depending on the operating mode and applied load. Select an NXI chassis with sufficient slots, power capacity, and cooling for the planned module configuration.
• Interfaces and automation: For automated test equipment, consider remote control, sequence functions, status feedback, and integration into the test software. The system can be extended with NXI communication modules where required.
• Required total power: NXI power modules are particularly suitable for compact modular multi-channel tests. Applications requiring higher voltage, current, or power can use external programmable DC power supplies or electronic DC loads integrated into the NXI test system.
• System integration: ET System can combine NXI power modules with measurement equipment, switching components, safety equipment, external sources and loads, and higher-level test control through custom test system integration.

To select a suitable module, specify the direction of energy flow, voltage, current, power, channel count, control mode, dynamic requirements, and automation interface. Contact our technical sales team for support with configuring your NXI system.