2025- 02- 09

Cost Factors of Power Supplies in Electronic Testing Equipment

Introduction

Power supplies play a pivotal role in high-power test equipment, from simple benchtop setups to complex automated systems. Advanced technologies, such as regenerative grid simulators and bidirectional power supplies, contribute to improved efficiency and energy savings. These innovations are especially valuable in applications that demand durable testing equipment and versatile systems capable of supporting wide voltage range power supplies.

By exploring the cost factors, this article aims to help professionals identify the right energy-efficient power supply solutions for their needs.

Power Output

Voltage and Current Requirements:

Power supplies designed to deliver high-output power come at a premium due to the need for larger components like transformers and capacitors. Additionally, models with precision power supplies tailored for low noise and accurate performance further add to the expense.

Power Range Versatility:

Supplies that support a wide voltage range or feature programmability are inherently more complex and expensive. The added flexibility of a programmable power supply ensures compatibility with various testing applications, making it a crucial investment for industries requiring adaptable solutions.

Rexgear’s power supply solutions address these challenges by integrating bidirectional energy flow, high power density, and wide voltage range support. These advanced features allow for seamless transitions between sourcing and sinking power, optimizing efficiency and reducing energy waste. Additionally, many power supplies now incorporate modular designs, making them scalable and suitable for diverse testing requirements across industries such as automotive, renewable energy, and battery testing.

How to Choose? Features and Durability

Regenerative Grid and Bidirectional Power Supply:

Regenerative grid simulators, such as the IT7900P Series, provide full four-quadrant operation, allowing seamless bidirectional energy transfer. These devices act as both a power supply and a load, ensuring efficient power regeneration by feeding unused energy back into the grid, reducing waste and operating costs. This feature is particularly valuable in applications involving electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and photovoltaic (PV) inverters.

Similarly, bidirectional power supplies like the IT6000C Series integrate source and sink capabilities, enabling seamless transitions between sourcing and sinking power. Their high regenerative efficiency (up to 95%) significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining stable output.

Essential Features:

Wide Voltage & Current Range: Devices such as the IT6600C Series offer high power density (up to 42kW in 3U form factor) and bidirectional capabilities, making them versatile for high-power testing applications.
Programmability & Simulation: Advanced models include built-in waveform generators, standard automotive voltage curves, and compliance with testing regulations such as LV123, LV148, and IEC 61000.
Multiple Communication Interfaces: USB, CAN, LAN, and optional GPIB/RS232 interfaces allow seamless integration with test environments.

Durability & Reliability:

When choosing between a power supply, durability is a key consideration. Rexgear’s testing solutions offer robust designs with built-in protection features, including over-voltage, over-current, and over-power protection. These units also incorporate third-generation SiC-based technology, ensuring high reliability and efficiency, making them ideal for long-term, demanding test environments.

Market Trends and Emerging Technologies

Technology Advancements:

The rise of modular power supply systems is transforming the industry, offering scalability and customizable power supply features to meet diverse requirements. These designs are particularly relevant as demand increases for high-power test equipment capable of prolonged, consistent performance.

Environmental Factors:

Sustainability is a growing concern. Manufacturers are prioritizing eco-friendly testing equipment that align with environmental regulations while enhancing energy efficiency. The use of the regenerative functionality ensures reliable operation while minimizing energy loss.

Competition and Innovation:

Competitive pressures drive the development of Mega-watt power supply technology, such as GaN and SiC components, which deliver higher performance at lower energy costs. Innovations in the testing industry trends continue to reshape the market landscape.

Who Buys Them:

Key buyers include research institutions, large manufacturers, government organizations, and the aviation industry. These entities require reliable power supply solutions that offer efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. Rexgear’s solutions, with their high efficiency and regenerative capabilities, cater specifically to these demanding sectors by offering a balance of power, efficiency, and longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of power supplies for testing equipment is influenced by factors such as output, efficiency, programmability, and compliance with sustainability goals. Professionals should weigh these aspects carefully to ensure they select a solution that meets their technical and financial requirements.

Evaluating the total cost of ownership is essential to achieve long-term value, especially when considering customizable features and cutting-edge technologies.

If you are interested in learning more about which testing equipment fits your testing requirements and company budget, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]