General Description

The L Series consist of a range of AC Power Source products with output power levels from 833 VA to 30 kVA. Using high frequency PWM technology, these units provide precision AC power in single, dual (split) or three phase configurations.

All L Series units use dual voltage ranges and programmable current limits to protect the unit under test. Standard voltage ranges of 135 and 270 Volt rms are typical but optional output range options offer voltage ranges up to 400 V rms. The complete solid state, high switching speed PWM architecture of the L Series ensures low noise and low distortion output over a wide range of power levels.

Detailed Information

Controller Capabilities
The L Series uses a modular plug-in controller approach that enables several controllers with different feature levels to be selected. For simple manual operation, the -M controller provides rotary knobs for setting voltage and frequency. Both front panel and computer control is available using one of the -P or -PT controller options. Units equipped with -P or -PT controller options also offer built in measurement functions. The following controller options are available for the L Series.

All programmable controllers offer output measurement functions for voltage, rms current, power, power factor, phase (three phase systems) and frequency. Three phase models can be used in single phase mode by adding the -MODE option which allows automatic switching between single and three phase modes from both the front panel and the IEEE-488 bus.

Programmable controllers also include a standard IEEE-488 remote control interface and a Windows ™ Graphical User Interface (GUI) for PC control.

Applications
The extended output frequency range of 17 Hz to 5000 Hz (-P Controller only with certain models) makes the L Series suitable for both commercial and avionics applications. Dual voltage ranges provide maximum output current at any programmed voltage up to 400 Volt. (-EHV option, some options are mutually exclusive) The built in measurement functions often eliminate the need for additional test equipment. Due to the many configuration possibilities of the L Series family of products, California Instruments is able to supply systems that specifically meet your application requirements. The L Series offers many options and configuration choices, some of which affect output ranges. Contact factory for configuration information.

Remote Control
All L Series AC sources shipped with a programmable controller (-P or -PT) include a Windows ™ Graphical User Interface (GUI) program. The GUI supports all functions and capabilities of the L Series controller used.
· Control all output parameters such as voltage, current limit, phase and frequency.
· Compile lists of transient programs on disk for quick recall and execution
· Measure and record key output parameters such as volt rms, current, peak current, real power, and power factor.
· Run RTCA/DO160C (requires option -160) or MIL-STD 704D tests (requires option -704)
· Monitor remote control commands over the bus using the built in command viewer window to quickly learn how to program the L Series yourself.

Of course, drivers for popular programming environments such as LabView ™ are available as well for custom software development. If needed, the front panel can be locked out to prevent operator intervention during test runs.