Kikusui PLZ164WL, PLZ334WL User Manual

PART NO. IB021036

Oct. 2015

Installation and

Preparation

User’s Manual

PLZ-4WL Series Electronic Load

PLZ164WL PLZ334WL

Basic Functions

Advanced Operations

Sequences

External Control

Maintenance

Specifications

App

This manual is intended for users of the product or persons

About PLZ-4WL Series Manual

teaching other users on how to operate the product.

The manual assumes that the reader has knowledge about Power Supply.

• User’s manual (this manual) User's manual is intended for first-time users of the PLZ4WL series. It gives an overview of the PLZ-4WL series and describes various settings, measurement procedures, maintenance, safety precautions, etc. This manual is designed to be read from beginning to end. You can review this manual when you are confused about an operation or when a problem occurs.

• The communication interface manual The communication interface manual describes the content of the commands. The interface manual is written for readers with sufficient basic knowledge of how to control instruments using a personal computer.

• Quick Reference The quick reference briefly explains the panel description and the basic operation of the PLZ-4WL.

• Setup Guide The setup guide is intended for first-time users of the PLZ4WL series. It gives an overview of the PLZ-4WL series, connecting procedures, safety precautions, etc. Please read through and understand this guide before operating the product.

Trademark acknowledgements

Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/ or other countries.

Other company names and product names used in this manual are generally trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies.

Copyrights

Reproduction and reprinting of operation manual, whole or partially, without our permission is prohibited.

Both unit specifications and manual contents are subject to change without notice.

PDF and HTML files are included in the accompanying CDROM. Adobe Reader 9.2 or later is required to view the PDF files. Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 or later is required to view the HTML files.

If you find any incorrectly arranged or missing pages in the manual, they will be replaced. If the manual gets lost or soiled, a new copy can be provided for a fee. In either case, please contact Kikusui distributor/agent, and provide the “Kikusui Part No.” given on the cover.

The Operation Manual has been prepared with the utmost care; however, if you have any questions, or note any errors or omissions, please contact Kikusui distributor/agent.

Product ROM versions that this manual

covers

This manual applies to products with firmware versions 1.0X.

When contacting us about the product, please provide us with:

The model (marked in the top section of the front panel) The ROM version (see page 16) The serial number (marked in the rear panel)

2 PLZ-4WL

• The PLZ164WL Electronic Load is also referred to as the

Notations used in this manual

WARNING

CAUTION

DESCRIPTION

See

Memo

Product Overview

PLZ164WL, the PLZ334WL Electronic Load is also referred to as the PLZ334WL

• The word computer used in the text is a collective term for personal computers and workstations.

• The following markings are used in this manual.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if ignored, could result in death or serious injury.

The PLZ-4WL Series Electronic Load is a multifunctional system designed to offer the highest levels of reliability and safety. The electronic load contains a stable and highperformance current-control circuit that enables high-speed load simulations. In addition, its CPU control feature works to improve operability and multifunctional capability.

The high-precision current settings provide you with sufficient resolution.

Because the electronic load comes standard with GPIB, RS232C, and USB communication functions, it can be easily incorporated into a wide range of test and inspection systems.

PLZ-4WL Series Models

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if ignored, may result in damage to the product or other property.

Indicates information that you should know.

Explanation of terminology or operation principle.

Indicates reference to detailed information.

Indicates menu settings that you select. The menu item to the left of the > symbol is a higher level menu.

SHIFT+key name

Indicates an operation that requires you to press a key indicated in blue letters while holding down SHIFT.

Indicates useful information.

Model Maximum

Operating Current

PLZ164WL 50 A 0.3 V to 30 V 165 W

PLZ334WL 100 A 0.3 V to 30 V 330 W

Operating Voltage

Power

Features

In addition to the high-performance constant-current, constant-resistance, constant-voltage, and constant-power modes, the PLZ-4WL Series Electronic Load offers a wide variety of other features.

High-speed slew rate of 50 A/µs (PLZ334WL)

The rise and fall slew rate of the current when the PLZ-4WL switches at 2 % to 100 % (20 % to 100 % in M range) of the rated current in constant current mode is 50 A/µs (PLZ334WL), which corresponds to fast rise and fall times of 1.6 µs (for all types). This allows you to conduct accurate transient-response tests of DC power supplies and to accurately generate simulated waveforms for use as dummy loads.

Variable slew rate

In constant current mode, the PLZ-4WL allows configuration using slew rates (A/ µs). This allows you to optimize the voltage drop caused by the wire inductance that occurs when a load is switched or to optimize the transient control of the equipment under test (such as a constant-voltage power supply).

Higher precision

Higher precision is offered for current settings. High resolution for minute current settings is provided using

a 3-range configuration. (0.02 mA resolution is possible in the L range of the PLZ164WL.)

Operability

The PLZ-4WL employs a large LCD. Measured values of voltage, current, and power at the load input terminals are indicated at all times. The values are indicated using larger characters than other sections to improve visibility. Coarse and fine adjustments using the rotary knob are useful for setting values over a wide range. The easy-to-use memory function enables repetitive tests.

Sequence function

User-defined sequence patterns can be saved to the internal memory. Up to 10 normal sequence programs and 1 fast sequence program can be saved. Normal sequences can contain up to 256 steps, and the fast sequence can contain up to 1024 steps. You can edit sequences easily from the large LCD.

PLZ-4WL 3

Functions that are useful for battery discharge

What Is an Electronic Load?

PLZ-4WL Series

Constant-voltage power supply

The current is constant even when the voltage varies.

Current I

Voltage

CC setting

0.1 V

3.3 V

30 V

0.1 A

Input current

Input voltage

Operating area where specifications are guaranteed

Actual operating area

165 W

0.3 V

5.5 A

50 A

Logarithmic scale

Operating area where specifications are guaranteed

50 mV 20 mV

Input current

Input voltage

0.3 V

50 A

Actual operating area

Example for the PLZ164WL

testing

You can measure the time from when the load is turned on until when it is turned off. You can measure the time from the start of battery discharge to the cutoff voltage (time measurement) by using this function in conjunction with undervoltage protection (UVP). In voltage measurement, the voltage immediately before the load turns off is measured. If you use the timer so that the load turns off after a specified amount of time, you can measure the closed-circuit voltage after a specified time has elapsed since the start of battery discharge (voltage measurement).

Standard-equipped GPIB, RS232C, and USB interfaces

The PLZ-4WL comes standard-equipped with GPIB, RS232C, and USB interfaces. It can be easily incorporated into a wide range of test and inspection systems. When the interfaces are used with the sequence function, a variety of systems can be created.

To measure the characteristics of power sources and other devices that produce energy, a load is required to consume the energy. A variable resistor can be used as a simple load. A device in which semiconductor devices such as transistors are used instead of a variable resistor is referred to as an “electronic load.” Using semiconductor components, an “electronic load” can change the current and voltage freely, so when it is used with a control circuit, it can function as a variety of different types of loads. Electronic loads can be used as loads for different types of circuits, for switching power supplies and other types of DC power supplies, for testing the characteristics and lifespans of primary and secondary batteries, and for aging. You can use the sequence function to create programs that simulate real load conditions and use these programs to produce varying loads in tests on devices such as power supplies for printers.

Operating Areas of the PLZ-4WL

As shown in the figure, the PLZ-4WL can be used within the area enclosed by the constant voltage line defined by the rated voltage, the constant power line defined by the rated power, the constant current line defined by the rated current, and the constant voltage line defined by the minimum operating voltage (the enclosed area is where specifications are guaranteed).

The specifications are not guaranteed for input voltages below

0.3 V (the values in the actual operating area). The minimum operating voltage at which current begins to flow through the PLZ-4WL is approximately 50 mV. If the input voltage is gradually increased from 0 V, no current will flow until this minimum operating voltage is exceeded. If the input voltage exceeds the minimum operating voltage and a current greater than or equal to 0.2 % of the range rating (greater than or equal to 0.2 % of the H range when the PLZ-4WL is set using the M range) starts flowing, the current can keep flowing even when the voltage is reduced down to as low as approximately 20 mV.

There are AC electronic loads and DC electronic loads. The PLZ-4WL is a DC electronic load for use with DC circuits.

Basic Operation Modes

The following six operation modes are available on the PLZ4WL.

1. Constant current mode (CC mode)

2. Constant resistance mode (CR mode)

3. Constant power mode (CP mode)

4. Constant voltage mode (CV mode)

5. Constant current and constant voltage mode (CC+CV mode)

6. Constant resistance and constant voltage mode (CR+CV mode)

Here, we will explain the simplest of the six modes: constant current (CC) mode.

■ Constant Current Mode Operation

In constant current (CC) mode, the PLZ-4WL operates as a constant-current load.

The PLZ-4WL sinks the specified current (I) regardless of the output voltage (V1) of the constant-voltage power supply.

4 PLZ-4WL

About PLZ-4WL Series Manual 2

Notations used in this manual 3

Product Overview 3

What Is an Electronic Load? 4

Installation and

Preparation

Checking the Package Contents 12

Connecting the Power Cord 14 Turning the Power On 15

Load wiring 17 Methods for Ensuring Stable Operation 18

Connecting to the Load Input Terminals 21 Remote Sensing 24

Basic Functions

Panel Operation Basics 26 Turning the Load On and Off 27

Operation Modes 29 Constant Current Mode (CC mode) 30

Constant Resistance Mode (CR) 32

Constant Voltage Mode (CV mode) 34

Constant Power Mode (CP mode) 35

Switching 36

Slew Rate 38

Attachment to the rack adapter 13

Turning the POWER switch on 15 When the PLZ-4WL does not start

properly 16 Checking the version 16 Turning the POWER switch Off 16

Reducing the load wiring inductance 18 Optimizing the response speed 19 Do not apply excessive voltages to the

load input terminals 20 Match the polarities of the load input

terminals and the DUT terminals 20

Turning the load on 27 Turning the load off 28

Configuring CC mode 30 Configuring CC+CV mode 31

Configuring CR mode 32 Configuring CR+CV mode 33

Configuring CV mode 34

Configuring CP mode 35

Setting the switching level 36 Setting the switching interval 37 Turning the switching function on and off

Setting procedure 38

Soft Start 39 Short 40

Turning the short function on and off 40 Locking the Keys 41 Switching from Remote Mode to Local Mode

Advanced Operations

Memory Types 44 ABC Preset Memory 45

Saving settings to ABC preset memory 45

Recalling ABC preset memory entries 46 Setup Memory 47

Saving settings to setup memory 47

Recalling setup memory entries 48 Protection Functions 49

Protection function types 49

Clearing alarms 51 Response Speed 52 Elapsed Time Display and Auto Load-Off

Timer 53

Elapsed time display (Count Time) 53

Auto load-off timer (Cut Off Time) 53 Menu 54 Factory Default Settings (Initialization) 56

Sequences

Sequence Function 58

Normal sequences and fast sequences

Common Sequence Editing Operations 59 How Normal Sequences Work 60 Editing Steps in a Normal Sequence 62

Adding steps 62

Editing steps 62

Deleting steps 63 Sequence Example (Normal Sequence) 64

Editing program 1 65

Setting the steps of program 1 66

Editing program 2 68

Setting the steps of program 2 69 How Fast Sequences Work 70

Editing steps 72 Sequence Example (Fast Sequence) 74

Editing program 11 75

Setting the steps of program 11 76 Executing, Pausing, and Stopping Sequences

Executing sequences 77

Pausing a sequence 77

Stopping a sequence 78

When sequences cannot be executed 78

PLZ-4WL 5

External Control

External Control 80

About the J1 connector 81 J1 connector pin arrangement 82 Precautions for high-speed load

simulations 83

Superimposing Constant Current Mode (CC Mode) 88

Turning the Load On and Off through External Control 89

Signal Input for turning the load on and off

Load-on status signal output 90

Using a Trigger Signal to Control the PLZ-4WL

Controlling the Current Range Externally 92

Input for switching the range externally 92 Range status output 92

Alarm Signal 93

Alarm input 93 Alarm release input 93 Alarm status output 93

Monitor Signal Output 94

Trigger signal output 94 Current monitor output 94

Other functions 113 Common specifications 114 General specifications 115 Dimensions 116

Appendix

A Operating Area 118

Basic operation modes 118 How constant current (CC) mode works

119

How constant resistance (CR) mode works 120

How constant power (CP) mode works

122

How constant voltage (CV) mode works

124

How constant current and constant voltage (CC+CV) mode works 126

How constant resistance and constant voltage (CR+CV) mode works 128

Operating areas of each model 130

B Sequence Program Creation

Table132

C Options 134

Maintenance

Inspection 96

Internal inspection 97 Backup battery replacement 97

Calibration 98

What gets calibrated? 98 Preparation 99

CC Mode Calibration (Calibration numbers 1, 2, and 3) 100

CV Mode Calibration (Calibration numbers 4 and 5) 102

Ending Calibration 104 Troubleshooting 105

Specifications

Ratings 108 Constant current (CC) mode 108 Constant resistance (CR) mode 109 Constant voltage (CV) mode 109 Constant (CP) power mode 110 Measurements 110 Switching mode 111 Slew rate 111 Soft start 11 2 Response 11 2 Remote sensing 112 Protection function 112 Sequence function 113

INDEX135

6 PLZ-4WL

Search by Topic

To solve problems

See "Troubleshooting" on page 105.

• What accessories are included in the package?



"Checking the Package Contents" p. 12

• The installation space is limited, so I want to check the installation conditions.



See the included “Setup Guide”　 document, or the electronic version of　

the document on the CD-R.

---

• How do I connect the AC power supply?

 "Connecting the Power Cord" p. 14

• What kind of load wiring should I use?

 "Load wiring" p. 17

• How do I set the communication conditions for remote control?

 See the “Communication Interface

Manual” on the CD-R.

---

• How do I rack mount the PLZ-4WL? What kind of parts are needed?

"Attachment to the rack adapter" p. 13

• I want to use the PLZ-4WL in CC mode.

 "Constant Current Mode (CC mode)" p. 30

• I want to use the PLZ-4WL in CR mode.

 "Constant Resistance Mode (CR)" p. 32

• I want to add CV mode to CC mode.

 "Configuring CC+CV mode" p. 31

• How do I set the protection functions to prevent damage to the DUT?

 "Protection Functions" p. 49

• How do I use remote sensing to stabilize the PLZ-4WL?

 "Remote Sensing" p. 24

• How do I check the menu contents?

 "Menu" p. 54

• How do I reset the PLZ-4WL to its factory default settings?

 "Factory Default Settings (Initialization)" p. 56

• How do I operate the PLZ-4WL at a specified current? How do I save current values to the preset memory?

 "ABC Preset Memory" p. 45

• How do I edit sequence programs?

 "Sequences" p. 57

• How do I control the PLZ-4WL using external voltage?

 "External Control" p. 80

• How do I stop a sequence that is being executed?

 "Executing, Pausing, and Stopping

Sequences"

p. 77

• How do I use an external contact to turn the load on and off?

 "Turning the Load On and Off through

External Control"

p. 89

• I want to know about the backup battery’s replacement period.

 "Backup battery replacement" p. 97

• How should I clean the PLZ-4WL?

 "Cleaning the dust filter"

p. 96

• How do I calibrate the PLZ-4WL?

 "Calibration"

p. 98

Preparation

Setup Operation

Maintenance

PLZ-4WL 7

Front Panel

17 16

2122

2725

2423

0.00mA0.000

0.000

SLEWRATE

0:06:23

0.000

0.01

mA/s

SET

H 100A 30V

C . C

0.00

0.000

0.01

3230

34 35

36 37

Display

See

LEWRAT

No. Name Function

POWER switch

REMOTE Connector for expanding functions. –

TRIG OUT Produces a pulse signal during sequence or switching operation. p. 94

I MON OUT An output terminal for monitoring the current. p. 94

Remote sensing

terminals

DC INPUT The load input terminals for connecting the DUT and the PLZ-4WL. p. 17

Chassis terminal A terminal connected to the chassis. p. 17

Air inlet An air inlet for cooling. It has a dust filter. –

Handle A handle for carrying the PLZ-4WL. –

Rotary knob Used to make selections and change settings. p. 26

Flip the switch to the ( ) side to turn the power on. Flip it to the ( ) side to turn the power off.

Terminals for connecting remote sensing wires. p. 24

8 PLZ-4WL

p. 15

No. Name Function

CURSOR

INS key Inserts a step (sequence editing). –

DEL key Deletes a step (sequence editing). –

PREV key Returns to the previous screen (menu settings). –

NEXT key Switches to the next screen (menu settings). –

LOCAL key Used to switch to local mode from remote mode. p. 42

LOCK key Used to set the key lock. p. 41

ENTER key Used to confirm the input (menu settings). –

ABC key Used to save settings to the preset memory. p. 45

SHIFT key Shift key. p. 26

RECALL key Used to recall the setup memory. p. 48

STORE key Used to save the setup memory. p. 47

C key Used to access preset memory C. p. 45

PAUSE key Pauses the PLZ-4WL during sequence operation. p. 77

B key Used to access preset memory B. p. 45

RUN/STOP key Stops the PLZ-4WL during sequence operation. p. 77

A key Used to access preset memory A. p. 45

EDIT key Used to edit sequences. p. 57

LEVEL key Used to set the switching level to a current or conductance value. p. 36

% key Used to set the switching level to a percentage.

FREQ/DUTY key Used to set the switching frequency and duty ratio. p. 37

Th/TL key Used to set the switching time.

SW ON key Turns the switching function on and off. p. 37

LOAD key Turns the load on and off. p. 27

MODE key Switches the operation mode. p. 29

+CV key Adds CV mode (constant voltage) to CC or CR mode. p. 31 , p. 33

SET/VSET key Used to set the fundamental settings (current, conductance, voltage, or

MENU key Displays the menu setup screen. p. 54

RANGE key Switches between the appropriate ranges (current, conductance, voltage,

V RANGE key Switches between voltage ranges. –

SLEW RATE key Used to set the slew rate. p. 38

SHORT key Turns the short function on and off. p. 40

OPP/OCP key Used to set the power at which overpower protection (OPP) is activated or

UVP key Used to set the voltage at which undervoltage protection (UVP) is activated. p. 51

Current Range Displays the current range. –

Voltage range Displays the voltage range.

Lock icon Appears when the key lock is enabled. p. 41

Remote icon Appears during remote control. –

/FINE icon Indicates whether the rotary knob is set to coarse or fine adjustment. p. 26

ARSE

mA/A Displays the measured current value. –

V Displays the measured voltage value. –

W Displays the measured power value. –

Operation status Indicates the operation mode being used or the status.

Elapsed time Displays the amount of time that has elapsed since the load was turned on. p. 53

Setting Displays the fundamental setting (current, voltage, power, or conductance). –

Short icon Appears when the short function is being used. p. 40

Multi display Displays settings other than the fundamental setting.

Set operation mode Displays the set operation mode. –

Up, down, left, and right keys. –

power).

or power) for the current operation mode.

the current at which overcurrent protection (OCP) is activated.

In CC+CV mode, CC or CV is displayed. In CR+CV mode, CR or CV is displayed.

When a value can be set, it is underlined, and the item name is highlighted.

See

–

p. 50

p. 29

–

PLZ-4WL 9

Rear Panel

No. Name Function

Air outlet Vent for cooling the PLZ-4WL. –

AC INPUT Power inlet. p. 14

USB USB port for controlling the PLZ-4WL remotely. –

RS232C RS232C port for controlling the PLZ-4WL remotely. –

GPIB GPIB cable connector for controlling the PLZ-4WL remotely. –

J1 connector External control connector p. 80

Serial number The serial number of the PLZ-4WL. –

See

10 PLZ-4WL

Installation and Preparation

This chapter describes how to unpack and prepare this product before you use it.

Checking the Package Contents

Load input terminal cover (1 pc.)

Load input terminal screw set (2 pc.)

Power code (1 pc.)

[M1-100-012]

[M5-101-007]

[M4-100-007]

Load input terminal cover screws (2 pc.)

[M3-112-018]

[Q1-500-122]

Chassis connection wire (1 pc.)

[91-80-6940]

Setup Guide (1 pc.)

Quick Reference (Japanese 1sheet, English 1sheet)

CD-ROM (1 pc.)

Plug: NEMA5-15 Rating: 125Vac/10 A [85-AA-0003]

Plug: CEE7/7 Rating: 250Vac/10 A [85-AA-0005]

Plug: GB1002 Rating: 250Vac/10 A [85-10-0790]

oror

The power cord that is provided varies depending on the destination for the product at the factory-shipment.

When you receive the product, check that all accessories are included and that the accessories have not been damaged during transportation.

If any of the accessories are damaged or missing, contact your Kikusui agent or distributor.

We recommend that you keep all packing materials, in case the product needs to be transported at a later date.

Accessories

12 PLZ-4WL

Attachment to the rack adapter

Cover

Handle

Bracket

M4 flat-head screw

(M4 × 0.7 × 8)

Rivet

Foot

Screw pin

Before assemble the unit to the rack adapter, remove the handle and the feet. As for the instruction of mount assembly, please refer to the instruction manual of KRA series.

Install the suitable support angles applying to the used rack system to support the instrument.

In case the unit is disassembled from the rack adapter it is recommended that all the removed parts are kept in the storage.

Once the unit is disassembled from the rack adapter please attach all the removed parts to original location of each part.

Removing the handle and feet

Checking the Package Contents

Installation and Preparation

Pull up on the handle cover (two locations).

Unfasten the M4 flat-head screws (two locations) and remove the entire

handle.

While pulling down on the feet (there are four of them), use a

screwdriver to loosen their screw pins, and then remove them.

PLZ-4WL 13

Connecting the Power Cord

WARNING

To a properly grounded outlet

To avoid electric shock, observe the following precautions.

• This product is IEC Safety Class I equipment (equipment with a protective conductor terminal). Be sure to earth ground the product to prevent electric shock.

• Connect the protective conductor terminal to earth ground.

• Use the supplied power cord to connect to an AC power line. If the supplied power cord cannot be used because the rated voltage or the plug shape is incompatible, have a qualified engineer replace it with an appropriate power cord that is 3 m or less in length. If obtaining an appropriate power cord is difficult, consult your Kikusui agent or distributor.

• A power cord with a plug can be used to disconnect the product from the AC line in an emergency. Connect the plug to an easily accessible power outlet so that the plug can be removed from the outlet at any time. Be sure to provide adequate clearance around the power outlet.

• Do not use the supplied power cord for other devices.

This product falls under IEC Overvoltage Category II (energy-consuming equipment supplied from the fixed installation).

Check that the POWER switch is off.

Check whether or not the AC power line is compatible with the input

rating of the product.

The voltage that can be applied is any of the nominal power supply voltages in the range of 100 Vac to 240 Vac. The frequency is 50 Hz or 60 Hz.

Frequency range: 47 Hz to 63 Hz

Connect the power cord to the rear-panel AC INPUT.

Connect the power cord plug to an outlet with a ground terminal.

14 PLZ-4WL

Turning the Power On

Memo

Constant current (CC) mode is selected in this screen, so you can enter the current, which is the fundamental setting.

0.00mA0.000

0.000

SLEWRATE

0.500

0.01

mA/μs

SET

H 50A 30V

Turning the POWER switch on

If the POWER switch is turned on for the first time after purchasing the PLZ-4WL, the PLZ4WL starts up using factory default settings. For all other cases, the PLZ-4WL starts up using the settings that existed when the POWER switch was turned off the last time.

Load-on indicator LED

LOAD key

Check that the POWER switch is turned off ( ).

Installation and Preparation

POWER switch

The condition in which characters “SET” is highlighted is called the fundamental setting entry condition.

Check that the power cord is correctly connected.

Check that nothing is connected to the DC INPUT (load input terminal)

on the front panel.

Turn the POWER switch on ( ).

Check that the display is in the fundamental setting entry condition.

The measured value displayed (section with mA, V, and W unit) indicates coarse zero. The characters “SET” shown under the measured value is highlighted with an underline. You can enter the fundamental setting for the selected operation mode.

Push LOAD.

Check that the LED above the key illuminates.

Push LOAD again.

Check that the LED above the key turns off.

PLZ-4WL 15

If an odd sound, odd odor, fire, or smoke occurs around or in the PLZ-4WL, remove the power plug from the outlet or turn off the power switch.

Turning the Power On

See

Example for the PLZ164WL.

CAUTION

When the PLZ-4WL does not start properly

This section introduces what measures you can take when the PLZ-4WL does not start properly. If following the remedy shown here does not solve the problem, contact your Kikusui agent or distributor.

Nothing is displayed. Make sure that the power cord is connected

Abnormal current or voltage values are being displayed.

An alarm has occurred. A protection function has been activated. Eliminate

Checking the version

p. 54

You can check the firmware and ROM versions by selecting “1. Model Info” on the menu screen.

Model Information

[ PLZ164WL ]

VERSION

SUB 1.00 MAIN 1.02

properly, and then turn the POWER switch on again. Adjusts the contrast of the display.

Turn the PLZ-4WL POWER switch off and then on again.

all the cause of the alarm.

Firmware version

ROM version

p. 26

p. 49

Turning the POWER switch Off

Flip the POWER switch to the ( ) side to turn the PLZ-4WL off.

After you turn the POWER switch off, wait at least 5 seconds after the fan stops before you turn the POWER switch back on. Turning the PLZ-4WL on too soon after you turn it off can cause damage to the inrush current limiter circuit, as well as reduce the life of components such as the POWER switch and the internal input fuses.

The PLZ-4WL saves the panel settings (except the load on/off setting) that were in use immediately before the POWER switch was turned off. When you turn on the POWER switch, the PLZ-4WL starts up with the saved settings. If the POWER switch is turned off immediately after the settings have been changed, the last settings may not be stored.

16 PLZ-4WL

Load wiring

WARNING

CAUTION

• Improper use of load wires may lead to fire. Use load wires whose capacity is adequate for the PLZ-4WL’s rated output current.

• Possible electric shock. Use load wires whose rated voltage meets or exceeds the PLZ-4WL’s isolation voltage. For details on the PLZ-4WL’s isolation voltage, see Chap.7 "General specifications".

• Use a load wire with sufficient diameter for the current as well as non-flammable or flameresistant cover.

If the wiring that you use for the load has a high resistance, the voltage will drop significantly when current flows, and the voltage at the load input terminals may fall below the minimum operating voltage. Using the following table as a reference, select wiring whose nominal cross-sectional area is as thick as possible.

A wire’s temperature is determined by the resistive loss based on the current, the ambient temperature, and the wire’s external thermal resistance. The following table shows the current capacity of heat-resistant vinyl wires that have a maximum allowable temperature of 60 C when one of the wires is separated and stretched out horizontally in air in an ambient temperature of 30 C. The current must be reduced under certain conditions, such as when vinyl wires that have a low heat resistance are used, when the ambient temperature is 30 C or greater, or when wires are bundled together and little heat is radiated.

Nominal CrossSectional Area

]

[mm

2 14 (2.08) 27 10

3.5 12 (3.31) 37 –

5.5 10 (5.26) 49 20

8 8 (8.37) 61 30

14 6 (13.3) 88 50

22 4 (21.15) 115 80

30 2 (33.62) 139 –

38 1 (42.41) 162 100

50 1/0 (53.49) 190 –

60 2/0 (67.43) 217 –

80 3/0 (85.01) 257 200

100 4/0 (107.2) 298 –

125 –– 344 –

150 –– 395 300

200 –– 469 –

250 –– 556 –

325 –– 650 –

AWG (Reference Cross-

Sectional Area) [mm

]

Allowable Current [A] (Ta = 30C)

KikusuiRecommended Current [A]

Installation and Preparation

Excerpts from Japanese laws related to electrical equipment.

PLZ-4WL 17

Methods for Ensuring Stable Operation

When you use the PLZ-4WL at a high response speed, it is important to reduce the inductance of the load wiring and configure the response speed setting appropriately. If the conditions are not configured appropriately, oscillation and other forms of operational instability may occur.

Reducing the load wiring inductance

Voltage generated by current changes

The wiring has an inductance of L. If current I changes quickly, a large voltage is induced on both sides of the wiring. All of this voltage will be applied to the load input terminals of the electronic load if the impedance of the DUT is low. Voltage E (hereafter referred to as the generated voltage), which is generated according to the wiring inductance L and the amount of current change I is expressed as follows:

EUT

Load input terminal

Generally, a wire’s inductance is approximately 1 µH per meter of wire. If the DUT and the electronic load are connected using 1 m of wire (total length of the positive and negative wiring), a change in current of 50 A/µs will generate a voltage of 50 V.

The negative load input terminal provides the reference potential for the external control signal. The generated voltage may cause the device connected to the external control signal to malfunction.

When the electronic load is in constant-voltage, constant-resistance, or constant-power mode, it uses the voltage at the load input terminals to change the load current. So it is easy for the electronic load to be influenced by the generated voltage.

PLZ-4WL

ΔI/ΔT

E = L × (ΔI/ΔT)

E: Generated voltage

L: Load wiring inductance

ΔI: Change in current

ΔT: Duration of time over which

the current changes

Large voltage drop caused by current changes during switching operation

Make the wiring to the DUT as short as possible, and twist it. When the wiring is long or contains a large loop, its inductance increases, and current changes caused by switching operations will result in large voltage drops.

If the instantaneous voltage value at the load input terminals drops below the minimum operating voltage, the recovery response will be delayed significantly. You need to be especially careful when the slew rate setting is high and when switching operation is performed at high currents.

18 PLZ-4WL

Current

See

Methods for Ensuring Stable Operation

Example of waveform

ΔI

ΔT

Voltage across the load input terminals

Minimum operating voltage

This change results in unstable oscillation and hunting.

To make sure that the voltage resulting from inductance remains within the range of the electronic load’s minimum operating voltage and maximum input voltage, make the wiring as short as possible and twist the wiring, or reduce the slew rate. If it is not necessary to operate at a high response speed, reduce the slew rate in CC mode, or reduce the response speed in CR mode.

Voltage across

the load input

terminals

Current

Current phase lag

Even during DC operation, it is possible for the phase lag of the current to result in unstable electronic-load control and oscillation. Make the wiring as short as possible, and twist it.

If you only need to use DC operation, connecting a capacitor and a resistor to the load input terminals can reduce oscillation. Do not exceed the capacitor’s ripple-current rating.

Installation and Preparation

Keep the wire short

100 cm or less

Device under test

–

Twist

Optimizing the response speed

You can change the response speed in CV mode and CR mode. The wiring inductance can cause the current to lag the voltage. This can result in unstable control of the PLZ-4WL and oscillation.

p. 52

To ensure stable operation, reduce the response speed.

PLZ-4WL Series Electronic Load

–

Example: R = 10 Ω, C = 100 µF

PLZ-4WL 19

Methods for Ensuring Stable Operation

CAUTION

Do not apply excessive voltages to the load input terminals

Do not apply a voltage that is greater than the maximum voltage of 30 Vdc to the load input terminals. Doing so may damage the product.

H 50A 30V

100.00A150.00

16.50

SLEWRATE

The maximum voltage that can be applied to the load input terminals is 30 Vdc. You cannot use voltages that exceed 30 Vdc. When excessive voltage is applied, the protection functions are activated. Lower the voltage of the DUT immediately.

ALARM

OVP

ENTER

0.000

SET

2.50 mA/μs

Match the polarities of the load input terminals and the DUT terminals

Connecting the electronic load to the DUT with the polarities reversed can result in the flow of excessive current and damage to the DUT and the electronic load.

Connect each load input terminal to the terminal on the DUT with the same polarity.

Device under test

H 50A 30V

H 500mA

ALARM

0.00mA0.000

Reverse

0.000

ENTER

0.000

SET

SLEWRATE

The protection functions are activated when a reverse voltage of approximately 0.4 V or greater is applied. If this happens, turn off the DUT immediately.

25.0 μA/μs

≤30 Vdc

PLZ-4WL Series

Electronic Load

20 PLZ-4WL

Connecting to the Load Input Terminals

WARNING

CAUTION

Positive terminal

Negative terminal

Load input terminals

Load input terminal cover

Cut to match the thickness

of the load wiring.

This section explains how to connect the DUT to the DC INPUT terminals on the front panel.

Possible electric shock.

• Do not touch the load input terminals when the output is turned on.

• Always use the load input terminal cover.

• To avoid damaging the product, observe the following precautions. Do not connect the DUT to the DC INPUT terminals when the load is on.

• To avoid overheating, observe the following precautions. Attach crimping terminals to the wires, and use the attached screw set to connect them.

Installation and Preparation

Using the load input terminal cover

Pass the wiring that you intend to connect to the load through the load input terminal cover. Cut the cover’s sleeves to match the thickness of the wiring

Connection procedure

Turn the POWER switch off.

Make sure that the output of the DUT is off.

Attach crimping terminals to the load wiring.

The DC INPUT terminals have open bolt holes (M8) for connecting the load wiring. Attach appropriate crimping terminals.

PLZ-4WL 21

Pass the wiring that you want to connect to the load through the

attached load input terminal cover.

Connecting to the Load Input Terminals

Nut (M8)

Load input terminal cover

Crimping terminal

Spring washer (M8)

Bolt (M8 × 18)

Load wiring

Chassis connection wire

Screw (M3 × 18)

Connect the load input terminal cover to the panel so that the terminals are not exposed.

Load wiring

Connect the load wiring to the load input terminals using the load input

terminal screw set that came with the PLZ-4WL.

Using the PLZ-4WL’s screws, connect one end of the chassis-

connection wire that came with the PLZ-4WL to the chassis, and connect the other end to the negative load input terminal.

If the DUT (a power supply or similar device) is grounded, connect the chassis connection wire to the positive or negative terminal in the same manner as the DUT. You can also float the chassis connection wire, not connecting it to the positive or negative terminal.

Push the load input terminal cover into the front panel, and then fix it

into place using the load input terminal cover screws that came with the PLZ-4WL (maximum tightening torque: 1 N-m).

Connect the load wires to the output terminals of the DUT.

Connect the positive load input terminal to the positive terminal of the DUT, and connect the negative load input terminal to the negative terminal of the DUT.

22 PLZ-4WL

Removing the terminal barrier

Connecting to the Load Input Terminals

A barrier is placed between the DC INPUT terminals when the PLZ-4WL is shipped from the factory. To avoid shorting between the terminals, we recommend that you leave the barrier in when you make connections.

When testing some types of devices, you may want to remove the barrier.

■ Removing the terminal barrier

Push the tab on the bottom side of the barrier, and pull the barrier towards you.

Terminal barrier

Push this part, and pull the barrier toward you.

Terminal barrier

Installation and Preparation

PLZ-4WL 23

Remote Sensing

CAUTION

DUT

PLZ-4WL Series

Electronic Load

-S

Remote sensing terminals

–

Red

White

Twist

Correct

Incorrect

The stripped wire is touching the chassis.

The wire strands are touching the chassis.

10 mm

STRIP-GAUGE

While pressing here with a screwdriver, insert the wire.

Single wire: AWG26 to AWG18

Twisted wire: AWG22 to AWG20

See

When the load wiring is long, the voltage drop caused by the wiring’s resistance cannot be ignored. “Remote sensing” is a function that can be used to compensate for this voltage drop. To accurately set the resistance, voltage, and power, use remote sensing.

Remote sensing makes operation more stable by improving the transient characteristics in the constant-resistance (CR), constant-voltage (CV), and constant-power (CP) modes.

• Never wire the sensing terminals while the POWER switch is turned on. Doing so may damage the internal circuitry.

• If a wire is disconnected during remote sensing, the PLZ-4WL and the DUT may be damaged. Make sure that wire connections are secure.

• Do not reverse the wiring of the OUT and COM terminals of the SENSING terminal. Doing so may damage the internal workings of the PLZ-4WL.

The table below indicates sizes of the wires that you can use to connect to the sensing terminals. Strip approximately 10 mm of coating from the end of the wiring.

Turn the POWER switch off.

Connect the sensing terminals to the DUT using sensing wires.

Connect the positive remote sensing terminal on the rear panel (+S) to the positive terminal (+) on the DUT. In the same way, connect the negative remote sensing terminal (-S) on the rear panel to the negative terminal (-) on the DUT. Connect the wiring as close to the DUT as possible.

Enabling remote sensing

p. 54

24 PLZ-4WL

To turn remote sensing on or off, from the menu, select “2. Configuration” > “4. Remote Sensing” > “Sensing.”

Basic Functions

This chapter explains the operations for each operation mode and other basic functions.

Panel Operation Basics

0.000

Fine adjustment

Small arrow

0.000

Coarse adjustment

Large arrow

0.00mA 0.000

0.000

SLEWRATE

0.000

0.01

mA/μs

SET

H 50 A 30 V

CR CV

Popup menu

You can perform operations from the operation panel on the front of the PLZ-4WL. The PLZ4WL produces a beeping sound to notify you when you make an invalid selection or perform an invalid key operation.

Function of the LOAD key

If you press LOAD when the load is turned off, the LOAD LED lights, and the load turns on. If you press LOAD when the load is turned on, the LOAD LED turns off, and the load turns off.

How to use the rotary knob

Use the rotary knob to set values such as the current and resistance. Turning the rotary knob clockwise increases a value and turning it counterclockwise decreases the value.

■ Coarse and fine adjustment

You can switch between coarse and fine adjustment by pressing the rotary knob. When the down arrow shown at the upper right corner of the screen is large, coarse adjustment is selected; when it is small, fine adjustment is selected.

The fine adjustment setting resolution is ten times that of coarse adjustment. During coarse adjustment, you can make even more coarse adjustments by holding LOCAL while you turn the rotary knob.

When you set a value, it is convenient to first use coarse adjustment to set the value roughly and then to switch to fine adjustment to set it precisely.

Popup menu operation

Some keys show a popup menu when you press them. If you press the key again while the menu is shown, the selected item changes. The selected item changes to the next lowest item each time you press the key. When you finish the key operation, the item at that point is selected, and the popup menu is cleared automatically.

How to use the SHIFT key

The SHIFT key switches the function of each key. If you press a key without holding down SHIFT, the function indicated above the key is enabled; if you press a key while holding down SHIFT, the function indicated below the key is enabled.

For example, if you press SET/VSET without holding down SHIFT, the SET/VSET (indicated in black) function is enabled. If you press SET/VSET while holding down SHIFT, the MENU (indicated in blue) is enabled.

This manual denotes the operation of pressing a key while holding down SHIFT as SHIFT+(notation above the key). For example, the selection of the MENU key is denoted as “MENU (SHIFT+SET/VSET).” In this case, press SET/VSET while holding down SHIFT.

Adjusting the display contrast

You can adjust the contrast of the display by turning the rotary knob while you hold SHIFT.

26 PLZ-4WL

Turning the Load On and Off

CAUTION

See

The load is on when current is flowing through the PLZ-4WL or when the PLZ-4WL is supplying current. The load is off when current is not flowing through the PLZ-4WL and the PLZ-4WL is not supplying current. You can turn the PLZ-4WL’s load on and off by pressing LOAD. The terms “load on” and “load off” appear frequently in this manual, so please remember them.

To avoid damaging the PLZ-4WL, be sure to follow the proper procedures for turning the load on and off.

Turning the load on

Make sure that the load is off.

Apply the output of the DUT to the PLZ-4WL.

If you are using a relay, electromagnetic switch, or other device in the connection between the load input terminals and the output terminals of the DUT, turn the device on.

Basic Functions

p. 54

p. 89

p. 39

Press LOAD to turn on the load.

■ Starting with the load turned on

By factory default, the load is not turned on unless you press LOAD after turning on the POWER switch.

To start the PLZ-4WL with the load turned on, from the menu, select “2. Configuration” > “2. Power On” > “Load On” > “ON.” Turn the power switch off and then on again to enable the settings.

■ Displaying the time that has elapsed since the load was turned on

This function, which displays the time that has elapsed since the load was turned on, is useful when used in conjunction with undervoltage protection (UVP) in discharge tests of batteries and capacitors. By factory default, the time is not displayed.

To display the time from load on to load off, from the menu, select “1. Setup” > “1. Function” > “Count Time” > “ON.” Turn the power switch off and then on again to enable the settings.

■ Using an external control signal to turn the load on and off

You can turn the load on and off using external control signals from a relay or other device.

■ Gradually raising the PLZ-4WL’s input current

In constant current mode (CC mode), you can set the PLZ-4WL to raise its input current gradually (soft start).

PLZ-4WL 27

Turning the Load On and Off

See

Turning the load off

Press LOAD to turn off the load.

Turn off the output of the DUT. If you are using a relay, electromagnetic

switch, or other device in the connection between the load input terminals and the output terminals of the DUT, turn the device off.

■ Turning the load off after a specified amount of time

The function for turning the load off after a specified period of time is convenient for discharge testing of batteries and capacitors. By factory default, the load on timer is off.

p. 54

To turn the load on timer on, from the menu, select “1. Setup” > “4. Cut Off” > “Time,” and set the time. Turn the power switch off and then on again to enable the settings.

When the load turns off, a popup window appears indicating the input voltage at the time the load was turned off.

28 PLZ-4WL

Operation Modes

CC+CV CR+CV

CR CV CP

0.00mA0.000V

0.000W

SLEWRATE

0.000

0.01

mA/μs

SET

H 50 A 30 V

CR CV

Operation mode

MODE

SHIFT

MODE

SHIFT

The following four operation modes are available on the PLZ-4WL. Constant voltage mode can be added to constant current mode or constant resistance mode (+CV).

• Constant current mode (CC mode, CC+CV mode)

• Constant resistance mode (CR mode, CR+CV mode)

• Constant voltage mode (CV mode)

• Constant power mode (CP mode)

Switching between operation modes

To switch between operation modes, press MODE while the load is off.

You can press +CV (SHIFT+MODE) in CC mode or CR mode to add CV mode. You can add CV mode even while the load is on.

Basic Functions

PLZ-4WL 29

Constant Current Mode (CC mode)

Memo

In constant current mode (CC mode), you set the current [A]. You can also add constant voltage mode (+CV mode) to constant current mode (CC mode).

Configuring CC mode

Select the operation mode, and set the current.

STORE

PAUSE

LOCK

ENTER

ABC

SHIFT

LOAD

SET / VSET

FREQ / DUTY

Th/TL

SWITCHING

RANGE

VRANGE

LEVEL

SHORT

EDIT

ABC

PRESET

MODE

LOAD

SW ON

Make sure that the load is off.

The load is off when the LED to the upper left of the LOAD key is off. If the LED is lit,

SLEW RATE

OPP / OCP

UVP

RUN / STOP

RECALL

SEQ

press LOAD to turn the load off.

When “SET” is highlighted, the PLZ-4WL is in the fundamental setting entry condition.

Press MODE to select the operation mode (CC).

The operation mode popup menu appears. Press MODE repetitively until CC is highlighted on the menu. After you select the

operation mode, the popup menu disappears, and “CC” appears on the display.

Press RANGE to select the current range.

The current range popup menu appears. Each time you press RANGE, the range switches between L, M, and H. Press RANGE

until the range that you want to select is highlighted. After you select a range, the popup menu disappears, and the range that you selected appears along with its full scale value. The full scale value varies depending on the model.

Press VRANGE (SHIFT+RANGE) to select the voltage range.

The voltage range popup menu appears. Each time you press VRANGE (SHIFT+RANGE), the voltage range switches between

4 V and 30 V. Press VRANGE (SHIFT+RANGE) until the range that you want to select is highlighted. After you select a voltage range, it appears on the display.

Check that the display is in the fundamental setting entry condition.

If SET is not highlighted, press SET/VSET to switch to the fundamental setting entry condition.

Turn the rotary knob to set the current.

The CC mode settings are complete. When you press LOAD, the LOAD LED lights, and the PLZ-4WL starts supplying current. You can change the current even when the load is on.

30 PLZ-4WL

+ 108 hidden pages

Kikusui PLZ164WL, PLZ334WL User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

About PLZ-4WL Series Manual

Notations used in this manual

Product Overview

What Is an Electronic Load?

Contents

Search by Topic

Front Panel

Rear Panel

Installation and Preparation

Checking the Package Contents

Attachment to the rack adapter

Connecting the Power Cord

Turning the Power On

Turning the POWER switch on

When the PLZ-4WL does not start properly

Checking the version

Turning the POWER switch Off

Load wiring

Methods for Ensuring Stable Operation

Reducing the load wiring inductance

Optimizing the response speed

Do not apply excessive voltages to the load input terminals

Match the polarities of the load input terminals and the DUT terminals

Connecting to the Load Input Terminals

Remote Sensing

Basic Functions

Panel Operation Basics

Turning the Load On and Off

Turning the load on

Turning the load off

Operation Modes

Constant Current Mode (CC mode)

Configuring CC mode