Xantrex XEL 60-1.5, XEL 30-3D, XEL 30-3, XEL 15-5 User Manual [En, de, fr, it, es]

XEL Series
Precision Linear DC

Power Supplies

XEL 15-5
XEL 30-3
XEL 60-1.5
XEL 30-3D

Operating Manual

About Xantrex

Xantrex Technology Inc. is a world-leading supplier of advanced power electronics and controls
with products from 50 watt mobile units to one MW utility-scale systems for wind, solar, batteries,
fuel cells, microturbines, and backup power applications in both grid-connected and stand-alone
systems. Xantrex products include inverters, battery chargers, programmable power supplies,
and variable speed drives that convert, supply, control, clean, and distribute electrical power.

Trademarks

XEL series is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex is a registered trademark of Xantrex
International.

Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and product names are the property of their respective
owners and are used herein for identification purposes only.

Notice of Copyright

© Xantrex International. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer

UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC.
(“XANTREX”)

(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF

ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER
DOCUMENTATION.

(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER

DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT
OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL
BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.

Date and Revision

November 2007 – Issue 1

Part Number

M370093-01

Contact Information

Telephone: [phone] (toll free in North America)

1-858-450-0085 (direct)

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

[e-mail]

Web: www.programmablepower.com

1

Introduction

The New XEL series combines the traditional benefits of linear DC power supplies with new and
important features:

• Linear regulation for ultra-low output noise and fast transient recovery

• High accuracy four digit fixed-resolution meters

• True analogue controls for quick and intuitive adjustment of voltage and current

• DC output switch to check settings before applying them

• Remote voltage sensing for exceptional load regulation

• Current meter averaging to reduce jitter with rapidly varying load currents

• High power density - up to 90 watts from an ultra-compact 3U ¼-rack case size

• Significantly higher energy efficiency than conventional linear regulated designs by using

an advanced phase-controlled pre-regulator

• Low current range giving 0.1mA meter resolution and finer low current setting

• V-Span allows the user to redefine the end-stop values of the voltage control, giving high-

resolution analogue control over the exact voltage range needed

• S-Lock digitally locks voltage and current settings at the touch of a button

• Setting limits can be viewed at any time

• Safety binding post terminals are touch-proof and uniquely accept fixed shroud 4mm

plugs as well as standard plugs, bare wires and fork connectors

Table of Contents

Introduction 2

Specification 3

EMC 5

Safety 6

Installation 7

Connections 8

Operation 9

Calibration 15

Maintenance 16

Instructions en Francais 17

Bedienungsanleitung auf Deutsch 27

2

Istruzioni in Italiano 37

Instrucciones en Español 47

Warranty Information 57

Specification

General specifications apply for the temperature range 5°C to 40°C. Accuracy specifications
apply for the temperature range 18°C to 28°C after 1 hour warm-up with no load and calibration at
23°C. Typical specifications are determined by design and are not guaranteed.

OUTPUTS

Voltage/Current Ranges:
XEL 15-5 0V to 15V/1mA to 5000mA; 0V to 15V/0.1mA to 500mA
XEL 30-3 0V to 30V/1mA to 3000mA; 0V to 30V/0.1mA to 500mA
XEL 60-1·5 0V to 60V/1mA to 1500mA; 0V to 60V/0.1mA to 500mA
XEL 30-3D 0V to 30V/1mA to 3000mA; 0V to 30V/0.1mA to 500mA (each output);

0V to 30V/2mA to 6000mA; 0V to 30V/0.2mA to 1000mA (parallel mode).
Note: Actual maxima for voltage and current are typically 1% greater than the figures given above.
Voltage Setting: By coarse and fine controls.

Current Setting: By single logarithmic control.
Configuration Selection:

(XEL 30-3D only)
Voltage Span Control

(V-Span)

Settings Lock
(S-Lock)

Output Mode: Constant voltage or constant current with automatic cross-over.

Output Switch: Electronic, non-isolating.

Output Terminals: Universal 4mm safety binding posts on 19mm (0·75”) spacing for Output;

Transient Response:
Ripple and Noise

(20MHz bandwidth):

Load Regulation: For any load change, measured at the output terminals, using

Line Regulation: Voltage <0·01% + 2mV for 10% line change.

Independent, True parallel, Isolated Tracking & Isolated Ratio Tracking

modes via front panel rotary switch.

The voltage adjustment range can be controlled by digital setting of the

end-stop values of the coarse voltage control to any desired values.

The range for Vmax is 0.1V to 15V/30V/60V depending on model.

The range for Vmin is 0 to (Vmax – 0.1V).

Voltage and current settings can be locked by a single button press.

Lock accuracy is equal to meter accuracy (see Meter Specification)

CC indicator lit in constant current mode.

Preset voltage and current limit displayed when Output is off.

Output rise time with no load <15ms.

screwless terminals for Sense.

<50µs to within 50mV of setting for a 90% load change.

Normal mode voltage: <0·4mVrms and 2mVp-p

Normal mode current: <0·2mArms; <40µArms on 500mA range.

Common mode current: <5µArms

remote sense:

Voltage <0·01% + 2mV.

Add typically 2·5mV for a 0·5V drop in the positive output lead.

Specification applies for sense lead resistance <0·5Ω.

Current typically 0·01% + 500µA.

Current <0·01% + 250µA for 10% line change.
Temperature Coefficient: Voltage: typically <(50ppm + 0·5mV)/°C

Current: typically <(100ppm + 1mA)/°C;

(100ppm + 0·1mA)/°C on 500mA range.
Output Protection: Output will withstand forward voltages of up to 20V above rated output

voltage. Reverse protection by diode clamp for currents up to 3A.
OTP Protection: Output trips off for over-temperature.

3

METER SPECIFICATIONS

Display Type: Dual 4-digit meters, 10mm (0·39") LED.
Voltage: Resolution 10mV

Accuracy ± (0·1% of reading + 10mV)

Current: Resolution 1mA; 0·1mA on 500mA range.

Accuracy ± (0·3% + 3mA) to 3A, ± (0·5% + 3mA) to 6A;
± (0·3% + 0·3mA) on 500mA range.

Current Meter Average: Selects a 2s time constant (normally 20ms) for averaging of rapidly

varying load currents.

ADDITIONAL SPECIFICATIONS – XEL 30-3D

Independent Mode: Each output is fully independent and isolated. Operation is equivalent to

two single power supplies.

Tracking Mode:

Tracking Accuracy:
Ratio (%) Tracking Mode:

Tracking Accuracy:
Parallel Mode: The Master output operates as a single output power supply with twice the

Both On / Both Off: Each output has an independent DC On/Off control; these additional keys

The two outputs remain isolated but the Slave voltage controls are
disabled and the Slave voltage is set equal to the Master voltage.

Slave voltage = ±(0.1% of Master voltage setting +10mV).

As tracking but the Slave voltage controls set an output voltage between
0% and 101% of the Master voltage. Once set, varying the Master voltage
will create the same percentage change in the Slave voltage setting.

% change in Slave voltage = % change of Master voltage ± 0.1% ±10mV).

current capability (0.2mA to 6A). The Slave is disabled (its displays are
both off).

can be used to turn both outputs on or off simultaneously. These keys
operate in all four modes.

GENERAL

AC Input: 230V AC or 115V AC ± 10%, 50/60Hz. Installation Category II
Power Consumption: Single: 280VA max. Dual: 560VA max.
Operating Range: +5ºC to +40ºC, 20% to 80% RH
Storage Range:
Environmental: Indoor use at altitudes up to 2000m, Pollution Degree 2.
Cooling: Intelligent variable-speed low noise fan assists convection. Over-

Safety:
EMC: Complies with EN61326
Size: Single: 107mm x 131mm (¼ rack 3U) x 288mm, excluding feet, knobs and

Weight: Single: 4·5kg. Dual: 6.7kg.

−40ºC to + 70ºC

temperature trip shuts down output if internal temperatures exceed
predetermined thresholds.

Complies with EN61010−1

terminals.
Dual: 214mm x 131mm (½ rack 3U) x 288mm, excluding feet, knobs and
terminals.

4

This instrument has been designed to meet the requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.
Compliance was demonstrated by meeting the test limits of the following standards:

Emissions

EN61326 (1998) EMC product standard for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use. Test limits used were:

a) Radiated: Class B
b) Conducted: Class B
c) Harmonics: EN61000-3-2 (2000) Class A; the instrument is Class A by product category.

Immunity

EN61326 (1998) EMC product standard for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use.

Test methods, limits and performance achieved were:
a) EN61000-4-2 (1995) Electrostatic Discharge : 4kV air, 4kV contact, Performance A.
b) EN61000-4-3 (1997) Electromagnetic Field, 3V/m, 80% AM at 1kHz, Performance B.

EMC

c) EN61000-4-11 (1994) Voltage Interrupt, 1 cycle, 100%, Performance B.
d) EN61000-4-4 (1995) Fast Transient, 1kV peak (AC line), 0·5kV peak (DC Outputs),

Performance B.
e) EN61000-4-5 (1995) Surge, 0·5kV (line to line), 1kV (line to ground), Performance B.
f) EN61000-4-6 (1996) Conducted RF, 3V, 80% AM at 1kHz (AC line only; DC Output

connections <3m not tested), Performance B.
According to EN61326 the definitions of performance criteria are:

Performance criterion A: ‘During test normal performance within the specification limits.’
Performance criterion B: ‘During test, temporary degradation, or loss of function or

performance which is self-recovering’.
Performance criterion C: ‘During test, temporary degradation, or loss of function or

performance which requires operator intervention or system reset occurs.’
Where Performance B is stated it is because DC Output regulation may deviate beyond

Specification limits under the test conditions. However, the possible deviations are still small and
unlikely to be a problem in practice.

Note that if operation in a high RF field is unavoidable it is good practice to connect the PSU to
the target system using screened leads which have been passed (together) through an absorbing
ferrite sleeve fitted close to the PSU terminals.

Cautions

To ensure continued compliance with the EMC directive observe the following precautions:
a) after opening the case for any reason ensure that all signal and ground connections are

remade correctly and that case screws are correctly refitted and tightened.
b) In the event of part replacement becoming necessary, only use components of an identical

type, see the Service Manual.

5

Safety

This instrument is a Safety Class I instrument according to IEC classification and has been
designed to meet the requirements of EN61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment
for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use). It is an Installation Category II instrument
intended for operation from a normal single phase supply.

This instrument has been tested in accordance with EN61010-1 and has been supplied in a safe
condition. This instruction manual contains some information and warnings which have to be
followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to retain the instrument in a safe condition.

This instrument has been designed for indoor use in a Pollution Degree 2 environment in the
temperature range 5°C to 40°C, 20% - 80% RH (non-condensing). It may occasionally be
subjected to temperatures between +5°C and –10°C without degradation of its safety. Do not
operate while condensation is present.

Use of this instrument in a manner not specified by these instructions may impair the safety
protection provided. Do not operate the instrument outside its rated supply voltages or
environmental range.

WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED

Any interruption of the mains earth conductor inside or outside the instrument will make the
instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited. The protective action must not be
negated by the use of an extension cord without a protective conductor.

When the instrument is connected to its supply, terminals may be live and opening the covers or
removal of parts (except those to which access can be gained by hand) is likely to expose live
parts. The apparatus shall be disconnected from all voltage sources before it is opened for any
adjustment, replacement, maintenance or repair.

Capacitors inside the power supply may still be charged even if the power supply has been
disconnected from all voltage sources but will be safely discharged about 10 minutes after
switching off power.

Any adjustment, maintenance and repair of the opened instrument under voltage shall be avoided
as far as possible and, if inevitable, shall be carried out only by a skilled person who is aware of
the hazard involved.

If the instrument is clearly defective, has been subject to mechanical damage, excessive moisture
or chemical corrosion the safety protection may be impaired and the apparatus should be
withdrawn from use and returned for checking and repair.

Make sure that only fuses with the required rated current and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.

Do not wet the instrument when cleaning it.
The following symbols are used on the instrument and in this manual:-

Caution - refer to the accompanying documentation, incorrect operation
may damage the instrument.

6

l

Earth (ground) terminal.

mains supply OFF.

mains supply ON.

alternating current (ac)

direct current (dc)

Mains Operating Voltage

Check that the instrument operating voltage marked on the rear panel is suitable for the local supply.
Should it be necessary to change the operating voltage, proceed as follows:

1. Ensure that the instrument is disconnected from the AC supply.

2. Remove the plastic push-rivets at each side edge of the top cover. Use the blade of a small

screwdriver to first ease out the rivet head and then fully remove the rivet body. Remove the two
rear panel screws securing the top cover; slide the cover back and lift off.

3. Change the transformer connections (two transformers on the dual) following the diagrams:

4. Re-assemble in the reverse order. To comply with safety standard requirements the operating

voltage marked on the rear panel must be changed to clearly show the new voltage setting.

230V Operation 115V Operation

BLUE BROWN BLUE BROWN

Fuse

The AC fuse is located in the fuse drawer in the lower part of the IEC inlet connector. To change the
fuse remove the line cord and open the fuse drawer with a suitable tool.

The correct fuse type is 20 x 5mm 250V HBC time-lag with the following rating:

Installation

Make sure that only fuses with the required current rating and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuseholders are prohibited.

Mains Lead

Connect the instrument to the AC supply using the mains lead provided. Should a mains plug be
required for a different mains outlet socket, a suitably rated and approved mains lead set should be
used which is fitted with the required wall plug and an IEC60320 C13 connector for the instrument
end. To determine the minimum current rating of the lead-set for the intended AC supply, refer to the
power rating information on the equipment or in the Specification.

Any interruption of the mains earth conductor inside or outside the instrument will make the instrument
dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.

Mounting

This instrument is suitable both for bench use and rack mounting. A rack kit for mounting in a 19” rack
is available from the Manufacturers or their overseas agents.

Ventilation

The power supply is cooled by an intelligent multi-speed fan which aids vertical convection. Take care
not to restrict the air inlets underneath or the vents on the top. When rack-mounted allow adequate
space above and below the instrument and/or use a fan tray for forced cooling.

230V 115V

Single: 1.6A (T) 3.15A (T)
Dual: 3.15A (T) 6.3A (T)

WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED.

7

Connections

All connections are made from the front panel.
The load should be connected to the positive (red) and negative (black) terminals marked

OUTPUT. Both are fully floating and either can be connected to ground.
Remote sense connections to the load, if required, are made from the positive (+) and

negative (−) SENSE terminals. Switch the LOCAL/REMOTE switch to REMOTE when remote
sensing is required. Switch back to LOCAL when remote sensing is not in use.

The terminal marked

is connected to the chassis and safety earth ground.

FRONT PANEL VIEW
(Single and Dual)

8

In this manual front panel keys, controls and sockets are shown in capitals, e.g. CURRENT,
OUTPUT, LOCK. Messages displayed on the 7-segment LEDs are shown in a different type-font,
e.g. turn oFF, OtP trip. The additional features of the Quad-mode Dual instrument are
described together at the end of this chapter.

Switching On and Power-On Conditions

The POWER switch is located at the bottom left of the front panel. When the POWER switch is
turned on (

shows Volts and Amps.
At power on, the factory default setting is for the output to be OFF. All other settings will be the

same as they were at last power off.

l ) the right hand meter briefly indicates the firmware revision before the display

Operation

After 2 seconds the new setting is shown continuously in the display and the change is
implemented; release the OUTPUT and VIEW keys. Repeating the procedure will change the
setting back to the previous state. Note that the power-on status of the two outputs of the dual
supply need to be set individually.

Output Control

Setting Up the Output

With the POWER switch on and the OUTPUT off the output voltage and current limit can be
accurately preset using the VOLTAGE and CURRENT controls; the left-hand meter shows the set
voltage, the right-hand meter shows the set maximum current and the SETTINGS indicator is lit.

When the output switch is switched on, the OUTPUT indicator lights; the left-hand meter now
shows the actual voltage and the right-hand meter the actual load current.

To change the current limit range the output must be switched off; if the output is on the warning
message

range remains unchanged.

turn oFF is shown briefly in the display, the OUTPUT indicator flashes and the

The dc output state at power-on can be set to be ‘always off’ or ‘same as
at last power-off’. The setting can be changed as follows. With the VIEW
key held down, press and hold down the
will first show the present setting for 1 second (

default is still selected) before flashing the new setting for 2 seconds (

OUTPUT key; the display

OP OFF if the factory

LASt Set in this instance).

The upper limit of the CURRENT control can be switched
between the maximum for this model and 500mA with
alternate presses of the 500mA RANGE key to give finer
current limit setting and measurement resolution (0.1mA up to
500mA); the indicator beside the key is lit when the 500mA
range is selected.

Constant Voltage

The output voltage is adjusted using the main and fine VOLTAGE controls; the CURRENT control
sets the maximum current that can be supplied.

Constant Current

If the load resistance is low enough such that, at the output voltage set, a current greater than the
current limit setting would flow, the power supply will automatically move into constant current
operation. The current output is adjusted by the CURRENT control and the VOLTAGE controls
set the maximum voltage that can be generated.

The CC indicator lights to show constant current mode.

9

Instantaneous Current Output

The current limit control can be set to limit the continuous output current to levels down to 1mA
(0.1mA on 500mA range). However, in common with all precision bench power supplies, a
capacitor is connected across the output to maintain stability and good transient response. This
capacitor charges to the output voltage and loading of the output will produce a current pulse as
the capacitor discharges which is independent of the current limit setting.

Current Meter Averaging

Efficiency

The power supply minimises dissipation by using electronic line frequency pre-regulation to
maintain a low overhead voltage to the output regulators. In addition, to optimise operation at
extremes of line input voltage and DC output power, the transformer secondary is intelligently tap­changed by a relay. Hysteresis is used at the threshold point to prevent unnecessary switching
when the output is set at about that level. Apart from an audible ‘click’ the user will be unaware
that the relay has switched; there will be no disturbance on the output.

Connection to the Load

To reduce the measurement jitter with rapidly varying load currents
a 2-second time constant can be selected by pressing the METER
AVERAGE key; the indicator beside the key lights when meter
averaging is selected. Press the key again to CANCEL meter
averaging and return to the standard 20ms time constant.

The load should be connected to the positive (red) and negative (black) OUTPUT terminals. Both
are fully floating and either can be connected to ground.

Remote Sensing

This requires the sense terminals to be connected to the output at the load instead of at the
source; insert wires into the spring-loaded SENSE terminals and connect directly to the load.
Switch the LOCAL/REMOTE switch to REMOTE. To avoid instability and transient response
problems, care must be taken to ensure good coupling between each output and sense lead. This
can be done either by twisting the leads together or by using coaxially screened cables (sense
through the inner). An electrolytic capacitor directly across the load connection point may also be
beneficial.

The voltage drop in each output lead must not exceed 0.5 Volts.
Switch the LOCAL/REMOTE switch back to LOCAL when remote sensing is not in use.

The unit has a very low output impedance, but this is inevitably
increased by the resistance of the connecting leads. At higher
currents this can result in significant differences between the
indicated source voltage and the actual load voltage (two 20mΩ
connecting leads will drop 0.2V at 5 Amps, for instance). This
problem can be minimised by using short, thick, connecting
leads, but where necessary it can be completely overcome by
using the remote sense facility.

Series or Parallel Connection with Other Outputs

The outputs of the power supply are fully floating and may be used in series with other power
supply units to generate high DC voltages up to 300V DC.

10

The maximum permissible voltage between any terminal and earth ground (

WARNING! Such voltages are exceedingly hazardous and great care should be taken to shield
the output terminals for such use. On no account should the output terminals be touched when
the unit is switched on under such use. All connections to the terminals must be made with the
power switched off on all units.

It should be noted that the unit can only source current and cannot sink it, thus units cannot be
series connected in anti-phase.

) is 300VDC

y

The unit can be connected in parallel with others to produce higher currents. Where several units
are connected in parallel, the output voltage will be equal to that of the unit with the highest output
voltage setting until the current drawn exceeds its current limit setting, upon which the output will
fall to that of the next highest setting, and so on. In constant current mode, units can be
connected in parallel to provide a current equal to the sum of the current limit settings.

Protection

The output has intrinsic short-circuit protection and is protected from reverse voltages by a diode;
the continuous reverse current must not exceed 3 Amps, although transients can be much higher.
If the applied reverse voltage can source more current than the set current limit, and the output is
on, then the output will go into current limit (the CC indicator will flash) and its display will show
the reverse voltage across the protection diode; if the output is off, just the CC indicator will flash.

In common with all series regulated single-ended power supplies, the unit is not capable of
sinking current provided from an external source. If a voltage greater than the set output voltage
of the unit is applied from an external source, the internal regulator will turn off and no current will
flow; if the output is turned on the voltage meter will read the applied voltage. No damage will
result providing the applied voltage does not exceed the maximum output voltage of the power
supply by more than 20 Volts.

With the OUTPUT off the load is still connected to the power supply output stage; the output
voltage is simply set to zero. Do not apply external voltages to the power supply terminals in
excess of 20V above the rated output voltage, even with the output off, or damage may result.

Over-temperature Protection

An internal sensor will detect over-temperature due to blocked airflow, fan failure or other circuit
fault. Over-temperature will turn the output off, the OUTPUT indicator will flash, and the display
will show the message

removed, and the instrument has cooled down, the output indicator will go off but the message

OtP triP . When the cause of the over-temperature has been

OtP triP continues to show. Pressing the OUTPUT key once will change the display to show

the preset voltage and current (the SETTINGS indicator will be lit) but the output will remain off;
pressing it a second time will turn the output on normally.

If the OUTPUT key is pressed while the instrument is still over-temperature (OUTPUT indicator is
flashing), the message

SETTINGS indicator will be lit) but the output will remain off; each subsequent press of the
OUTPUT key causes the

off until the over-temperature condition ends.

OtP triP is replaced by the preset voltage and current (the

OtP triP message to be displayed briefly but the output will remain

View Settings

The set voltage and current limit are always shown when
the output is off but can also be viewed when the output is
on by pressing the VIEW key; the SETTINGS indicator is lit
whilst the VIEW ke

is pressed.

Lock Settings

Pressing the LOCK key digitally locks the set voltage and current limit. The settings are stored
with a precision of better than 1 digit. Subsequent adjustments of the VOLTAGE and CURRENT
controls will have no effect.
Because cancelling LOCK will cause the output settings to change if the VOLTAGE and
CURRENT control positions have been moved, warning reminders are given before LOCK is
cancelled. Press and hold the key to cancel LOCK.

If the OUTPUT is off (the safe condition) the display will flash the ‘unlocked’ settings twice before
the change is implemented; the LOCK lamp goes off.

11

If the output is still on, OP on (output on) will flash twice in the
display, followed by flashing of the new ‘unlocked’ settings for 2-3

seconds (slowly at first, then faster) before the change is finally
implemented; the LOCK lamp goes off when the change is made.

Releasing the LOCK key at any time while the display is flashing will abort the LOCK cancellation.
Attempting to change the current limit range (see Setting up the Output section) or the voltage

span limits (see Voltage Span section) with LOCK enabled is not allowed; if attempted, the
message

Unloc is shown briefly in the display and the LOCK indicator is also flashed. If the

output is also on when these actions are attempted the message
the display (accompanied by the output indicator flashing) followed by the message
(with the LOCK indicator flashing).

Using Voltage Span

The VOLTAGE SPAN (V-Span) capability allows the end-stop values of the VOLTAGE controls to
be redefined by the user such that the controls operate within a specific, narrower, voltage range.
This not only has the advantage of protecting against the accidental application to the load of
voltages outside of the range, but also provides high-resolution analogue control over the
specified voltage range using the full 300º rotation of the voltage controls.

turn oFF is first shown in

V-Span is turned on or off with the ENABLE key. The
ENABLE lamp is lit when V-Span is selected. The

factory default is V

= 3V, V

min

max

= 5V

Unloc

Because turning V-Span on will always change the output voltage, it can only be enabled or
cancelled with the output off. If attempts are made to enable or cancel V-Span with the output on,
the display will briefly show the message

To set new values for V

min

or V

the V-Span function must be off (cancelled).

max

turn oFF to prompt the user to turn the output off.

The lower voltage limit is defined by using the MAIN and FINE VOLTAGE controls to set exactly
the required value; the V

key is then held pressed until the left-hand side (V) display stops

min

flashing and the right-hand side (mA) display shows
time by a short press (<1 second) of the V

key. The upper voltage limit is set and VIEWed in

min

exactly the same way using the VOLTAGE controls and the V
The limits can be set in any order and to any value within the output range of the instrument but
V-Span can only be turned on with the ENABLE key if V

met, the message

Set Err is briefly displayed and the V-Span function is not implemented.

When V-Span is enabled, the range of the MAIN VOLTAGE control is exactly V
the FINE control is set at its mid-point, marked on the panel with a • . The FINE control itself

can be usefully used to give an additional fine adjustment of ±1% (of the voltage span).

Mode Control of the Quad-Mode Dual

However, it is not possible to guarantee that there will never be any unwanted transients as the
mode is switched and the recommendation is therefore that both outputs should always be
switched off before any mode change.

The four operating modes of the Quad-Mode Dual are
described below; the mode is changed using the MODE
rotary switch. To prevent unintended voltages being
accidentally applied to the circuits connected to the outputs,
changing modes will always cause both outputs to be
switched off.

Set. The setting can be VIEWed at any

key.

max

max

≥ (V

+ 0.1V); if this condition is not

min

to V

min

max

when

12

Independent

Set the MODE switch to INDEPENDENT. The two outputs are completely independent and
electrically isolated; each can be set as described in the preceding Output Control section.

It is not possible to switch from Independent mode to Tracking with LOCK set on the Slave
output. The message

off (in Independent mode) before the Tracking modes can be used.
See also the Retained Slave Settings paragraph.

Isolated Tracking

Set the MODE switch to ISOLATED TRACKING. The two outputs remain electrically isolated but
the Voltage controls of the Master output set an identical voltage on the Slave output. The
Current controls of the Slave remain independent, including the 500mA Range and Meter
Average functions.

The electrical isolation permits the two outputs to be connected to provide, for example, tracking
voltages of opposite polarity or identical voltages connected to different system references (e.g.
digital ground and analogue ground).

The LOCK and VOLTAGE SPAN functions of the Master operate exactly as described previously
and, because the output voltage of the Slave tracks the Master, they control the Slave output
voltage as well. Note that only the output voltage of the Slave is ‘locked’ when the Master LOCK
is used; the current controls of the Slave, including the 500mA Range and Meter Average
functions, remain independent.

The LOCK key on the Slave output is ignored and pressing it causes the message
be shown momentarily in the Slave display as a reminder.
It is possible to switch from Tracking mode back to Independent mode with LOCK still set on the

Master. The ‘Master’ (right-hand output) settings stay ’locked’ but the settings of the left-hand
output, are not locked.

The Voltage Span keys of the Slave have a different function in Tracking mode, see next section.

Un loc is shown in the Slave display and LOCK must first be switched

In trac to

Isolated Ratio (%) Tracking

Set the MODE switch to ISOLATED TRACKING.

The instrument operates as described above for Tracking mode but the Slave voltage can be set
to a percentage (0% to 101%) of the Master voltage using the Slave Voltage controls. The ratio is
then maintained as the Master voltage is varied.

Pressing ENABLE again returns the Slave to standard Tracking mode (ENABLE lamp off).
Ratio Tracking can only be enabled or disabled with the output off. If the output is on the display

will briefly show the message
implemented.
Whenever Ratio Tracking mode is enabled the Slave display momentarily shows Pcnt on
before reverting to show the actual output voltage now set.

The percentage value can be shown at any time by pressing either the V
Slave output. With either key held down the Slave display shows the percentage setting in the
form

90.0 Pcnt and the Slave Voltage controls can be used to set the ratio percentage

required. The ratio percentage can be set prior to Ratio Tracking being enabled (ENABLE lamp
off).

The LOCK and VOLTAGE SPAN functions of the Master operate exactly as described previously.
However, with Ratio Tracking enabled, the Slave Voltage controls can still be used to adjust the
ratio percentage of the Slave voltage even though the Master voltage is locked. See also the
Retained Slave Settings paragraph.

Ratio Tracking is enabled by pressing the
ENABLE key in the Slave VOLTAGE SPAN
section (ENABLE lamp on)

turn oFF when ENABLE is pressed and the change will not be

min

or V

key of the

max

13

Parallel

The MODE switch is set to PARALLEL. The instrument operates in true parallel mode with all of
the power available from the Master output which can then supply up to 6 amps. The Slave
output is disabled and its displays are turned off.

In Parallel mode the value of the current limit is doubled for the same setting of the Current limit
control, including the 500mA range which becomes 1000mA max; as a warning, when Parallel
mode is first selected, the current display flashes twice before steadily displaying the new limit.
Similarly, the current display is flashed twice when the mode is changed from Parallel to Tracking,
as a warning that the Master output current limit has now halved.

The LOCK and VOLTAGE SPAN functions of the Master operate exactly as described previously.
It is possible to switch from Parallel mode back to Tracking mode (and vice-versa) with LOCK still
set on the Master; both the Voltage and Current controls of the Master stay in LOCK, as
described previously. However, the actual set current limit of the Master will still double (switching
from Tracking to Parallel) or halve (switching from Parallel to Tracking), even though LOCK is set,
but the current display flashes as a warning that this has happened.

Retained Slave Settings

If V-Span is enabled on the Slave output in INDEPENDENT mode, it is disabled when TRACKING
mode is selected but re-enabled when INDEPENDENT mode is re-selected.

If Ratio (%) Tracking is enabled on the Slave output in TRACKING mode, it is disabled when
INDEPENDENT or PARALLEL are selected but re-enabled when TRACKING mode is re­selected.

Simultaneous Output On/Off Control

The Both On / Both Off keys are in addition to the individual OUTPUT switches
and permit both outputs to be turned on or off synchronously with a single key
press. The Both On / Both Off keys operate in all four configuration modes.

14

Routine calibration is carried out without opening the instrument. Allow a 10 minutes warm-up
before commencing calibration.

Equipment Required

A 5½ digit multimeter with better than 0.02% accuracy on dc volts and better than 0.06%
accuracy on dc current (to 5A). Alternatively use a precision shunt for current measurement.

Calibration

Calibration

Calibration mode is entered by holding down all three VOLTAGE SPAN keys (V
ENABLE) while the POWER switch is turned on (

indicator lamps will be lit, as a display test. When the VOLTAGE SPAN keys are released the
display will show the first calibration step and the ENABLE lamp will blink slowly.

In calibration mode V
each step the calibration must first be made 'active' by pressing the ENABLE key; the ENABLE
lamp blinks rapidly when calibration is active and the calibration value is adjusted using the MAIN
and FINE VOLTAGE controls. If ENABLE is not pressed at any step, calibration is not activated
at that step and the existing calibration value is retained when the step is exited.

During calibration the left-hand display shows the calibration value and the right-hand display
shows the step number. Some values are 5-digit, in which case the 5
hand digit of the right-hand display.

Some steps adjust values on the display and some adjust the output. When a step adjusts the
output, measured by the DMM, the left-hand display shows a number.

Calibration must be done in sequence. However, it is possible to pass through a step, without
making an adjustment, providing ENABLE is not pressed, see above.

The full procedure is detailed in the table. Steps 3 and 8 are model dependent; note that the
15V/5A model is calibrated at 3A to minimise errors.

Note that the CURRENT control must be at minimum for step 5.
The

change load message between steps 7 and 8 is the point at which the high current

range must be selected on the DMM.

steps forward to the next adjustment and V

max

l ). All the display segments and other

steps backwards. At

min

th

digit is shown in the left-

min

, V

max

and

The final step in the sequence (step 14) shows
stores the new calibration values and reboots the instrument in the normal operating mode. Until

this is done the new values are not stored permanently. Turning POWER off (
will retain all the old calibration values.

15

End. Pressing the ENABLE key for 2½ seconds

) at any point

(Calibration Table overleaf)

Step Settings Display Adjust for Load Detail

1. O/P off Cal count 0V ± 2mV DVM O/P off volts

2. 0V Cal count 0V ± 2mV DVM V DAC zero

3. Max V, 100mA Cal count 15/30/60V ± 2mV DVM V DAC scale

4. Max V, 100mA O/P volts Display = DVM DVM V metering scale

5. I pot at 0 I pot Display = 0 - I pot ADC zero

6. 2V, 0mA Cal count 0mA ± 0.2mA milli-ammeter High I DAC zero

7. 2V, 0mA O/P amps Display = milli-ammeter milli-ammeter High I metering zero
Change load

8. 2V, max I Cal count 1.5/3A ± 1mA Ammeter High I DAC scale

9. 2V, max I O/P amps Display = ammeter Ammeter High I metering scale

10. 2V, 0mA Cal count 0mA ± 0.02mA milli-ammeter Low I DAC zero

11. 2V, 0mA O/P amps Display = milli-ammeter milli-ammeter Low I metering zero

12. 2V, 500mA Cal count 500mA ± 0.1mA ammeter Low I DAC scale

13. 2V, 500mA O/P amps Display = ammeter ammeter Low I metering scale

14. O/P off ‘End’ - - Stores and exits

Maintenance

The Manufacturers or their agents overseas will provide a repair service for any unit developing a
fault. Where owners wish to undertake their own maintenance work, this should only be done by
skilled personnel in conjunction with the service manual which may be purchased directly from
the Manufacturers or their agents overseas.

Cleaning

If the instrument requires cleaning use a cloth that is only lightly dampened with water or a mild
detergent.

WARNING! TO AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR DAMAGE TO THE INSTRUMENT, NEVER
ALLOW WATER TO GET INSIDE THE CASE. TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE CASE NEVER
CLEAN WITH SOLVENTS.

16

Sécurité

Cet instrument est de Classe de sécurité 1 suivant la classification IEC et il a été construit pour
satisfaire aux impératifs EN61010-1 (Impératifs de sécurité pour le matériel électrique en vue de
mesure, commande et utilisation en laboratoire). Il s'agit d'un instrument d'installation Catégorie II
devant être exploité depuis une alimentation monophasée habituelle.

Cet instrument a été soumis à des essais conformément à EN61010-1 et il a été fourni en tout
état de sécurité. Ce manuel d'instructions contient des informations et avertissements qui doivent
être suivis par l'utilisateur afin d'assurer un fonctionnement de toute sécurité et de conserver
l'instrument dans un état de bonne sécurité.

Cet instrument a été conçu pour être utilisé en interne dans un environnement de pollution
Degré 2, plage de températures 5°C à 40°C, 20% - 80% HR (sans condensation). Il peut être
soumis de temps à autre à des températures comprises entre +5°C et –10°C sans dégradation
de sa sécurité. Ne pas l'utiliser lorsqu'il y a de la condensation.

Toute utilisation de cet instrument de manière non spécifiée par ces instructions risque d'affecter
la protection de sécurité conférée. Ne pas utiliser l'instrument à l'extérieur des tensions
d'alimentation nominales ou de la gamme des conditions ambiantes spécifiées.

AVERTISSEMENT! CET INSTRUMENT DOIT ETRE RELIE A LA TERRE

Toute interruption du conducteur de terre secteur à l'intérieur ou à l'extérieur de l'instrument
rendra l'instrument dangereux. Il est absolument interdit d'effectuer une interruption à dessein. Ne
pas utiliser de cordon de prolongation sans conducteur de protection, car ceci annulerait sa
capacité de protection.

Lorsque l'instrument est relié à son alimentation, il est possible que les bornes soient sous
tension et par suite, l'ouverture des couvercles ou la dépose de pièces (à l'exception de celles
auxquelles on peut accéder manuellement) risque de mettre à découvert des pièces sous
tension. Il faut débrancher toute source de tension éventuelle de l'appareil avant de l'ouvrir pour
effectuer des réglages, remplacements, travaux d'entretien ou de réparations. Les condensateurs
qui se trouvent dans le bloc d'alimentation risquent de rester chargés, même si le bloc
d'alimentation a été déconnecté de toutes les sources de tension, mais ils se déchargeront en
toute sécurité environ 1 minute après extinction de l'alimentation.

Eviter dans la mesure du possible d'effectuer des réglages, travaux de réparations ou d'entretien
lorsque l'instrument ouvert est branché à une source d'alimentation, mais si c'est absolument
nécessaire, seul un technicien compétent au courant des risques encourus doit effectuer ce
genre de travaux.

S'il est évident que l'instrument est défectueux, qu'il a été soumis à des dégâts mécaniques, à
une humidité excessive ou à une corrosion chimique, la protection de sécurité sera amoindrie et il
faut retirer l'appareil, afin qu'il ne soit pas utilisé, et le renvoyer en vue de vérifications et de
réparations.

Uniquement remplacer les fusibles par des fusibles d'intensité nominale requise et de type
spécifié. Il est interdit d'utiliser des fusibles bricolés et de court-circuiter des porte-fusibles.

Eviter de mouiller l'instrument lors de son nettoyage.
Les symboles suivants se trouvent sur l'instrument, ainsi que dans ce manuel.

ATTENTION - se référer à la documentation
ci-jointe; toute utilisation incorrecte risque
d'endommager l'appareil.

alimentation secteur OFF (éteinte)

courant alternatif (c.a.)

17

l

Borne de terre (masse)

alimentation secteur ON (allumée)

courant continu (c.c.)

Tension d’alimentation sur secteur

Vérifier que la tension d’alimentation à l’arrière de l’appareil correspond à celle du secteur. S’il
s’avère nécessaire de changer de tension d’alimentation, procéder comme suit :

1. Assurez-vous que l'instrument est déconnecté du secteur.

2. Retirez les rivets-poussoirs en plastique de chaque côté du capot supérieur. Utilisez la lame
d’un petit tournevis pour libérer d'abord la tête du rivet, puis dégager complètement le corps
de la fixation. Retirez les deux vis du panneau arrière qui fixent le capot supérieur ; glissez
le capot vers l'arrière et soulevez-le.

3. Modifiez les connexions du transformateur (des deux transformateurs sur le modèle double)
conformément au schéma ci-dessous :

230V Operation 115V Operation

Installation

4. Remontez l’appareil dans l’ordre inverse. Pour se conformer aux prescriptions des normes

de sécurité, la tension d’alimentation indiquée sur le panneau arrière doit être modifiée pour
indiquer clairement le nouveau réglage de tension.

Fusible

Le fusible CA se trouve dans le compartiment à fusible dans la partie inférieure du connecteur
d'entrée IEC. Pour changer le fusible, retirez le cordon de phase et ouvrez le compartiment à
fusible avec un outil adapté.

Le type de fusible correct mesure 20 x 5 mm avec retardement HBC avec le classement suivant :

Remplacer les fusibles uniquement par des fusibles du courant nominal requis et du type
spécifié. Il est interdit d'utiliser des fusibles bricolés et de court-circuiter les porte-fusibles.

Cordon secteur

Brancher l’appareil sur l’alimentation secteur à l’aide du cordon secteur fourni. S’il s’avère
nécessaire d’utiliser une fiche secteur destinée à un autre type de prise murale, employer un
cordon secteur correctement dimensionné et homologué en l’équipant de la fiche murale voulue
et d’un connecteur IEC60320 C13 du côté de l’appareil. Pour déterminer l’intensité nominale
minimale du cordon en fonction de l’alimentation sur secteur prévue, consulter les
caractéristiques de puissance nominale figurant sur le matériel ou dans le chapitre Spécifications.

BLEU MARRON BLEU MARRON

230V 115V

Simple:

Double: 3,15A (T) 6,3A (T)

1,6 A (T) 3,15A (T)

18

AVERTISSEMENT ! CET APPAREIL DOIT ETRE RELIÉ À LA TERRE.

Toute interruption du conducteur de terre de la prise secteur à l'intérieur ou à l'extérieur de
l’appareil rendra ce dernier dangereux. Il est interdit d'effectuer une coupure intentionnelle.