Data Recording Methods in ITECH Power Supplies (Simplified Version)

In power testing, capturing precise data is critical for evaluating performance, identifying issues, and optimizing systems. ITECH power supplies, renowned for their versatility and precision, offer three key methods for data collection: USB Memory Stick, SCPI Query Method (with Measure and Fetch commands), and E-Log Function. This article explores these methods, highlights relevant ITECH models, and explains how to select the best approach based on specific testing needs.

USB Memory Stick

The USB Memory Stick method is a plug-and-play solution for logging extensive datasets directly onto a USB drive. It’s available across ITECH models, with sampling rates improved to 0.1 ms on newer units like the IT6642C (versus 1 ms on older IT6018C models).

• How It Works: Insert a USB stick into the power supply’s front panel (e.g., IT6000C series) to continuously record parameters like voltage and current.

• Advantages:

  • High storage capacity, limited only by the USB device.
  •  Fast sampling (e.g., 0.1 ms on IT6642C - new model) captures detailed transients.
  • Simple setup—no programming required.

   

• Limitations:

  • Data is only accessible post-test, delaying real-time analysis.
  • Requires manual retrieval and transfer to a PC.

   

Best For: Long-term tests (e.g., battery discharge cycles) where post-analysis suffices, especially on models like IT6000C or IT6642C with high-resolution needs.

SCPI Query Method

The SCPI Query Method uses Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments to fetch data remotely via USB, Ethernet, or GPIB. It’s supported across all ITECH models and includes two commands: Measure and Fetch.

• Measure Command:

  • Function: Requests live data (e.g., voltage, current) from the instrument.
  • Speed: 100–200 ms response time due to processing and communication latency.
  • Use Case: On the IT6018C, querying voltage during a load test validated steady-state performance.

   

•  Fetch Command:

  • Function: Retrieves pre-buffered data automatically.
  • Speed: 10–20 ms, faster than Measure but slower than E-Log or USB.
  • Use Case: Paired with IT9000 software on the IT6005C, it graphed voltage trends in realtime.

   

• Advantages:

  • Real-time monitoring without additional hardware.
  •  Flexible for remote setups on any ITECH model.
  • Works with AC models (e.g., IT7915P) lacking E-Log.

   

• Limitations:

  • Sampling rate (8–12 ms) limits resolution compared to USB or E-Log.
  • Requires moderate programming knowledge.

   

Best For: Real-time oversight on models like IT7915P or IT8206 for AC testing, or basic live monitoring on IT6000C when high precision isn’t critical.

E-Log Function

The E-Log Function utilizes the power supply’s internal buffer for high-speed data capture, available on advanced DC models like the IT6000C series and IT6642C. Data is stored internally and queried via SCPI commands.

• How It Works: Configured via scripts (e.g., Python on IT6000C), it logs at 0.1 ms intervals, with data fetched post-capture or during tests.

• Advantages:

  • Ultra-fast sampling (0.1 ms) for transients and waveforms.
  • Real-time access via fetch commands after a short delay.
  • High data density (e.g., 5,057 points from a 0V–10V rise on IT6000C).

   

• Limitations:

  • Requires technical expertise for setup and synchronization.
  • Not available on AC models like IT7915P.

   

Best For: High-speed, high-resolution tests (e.g., transient analysis) on DC models like IT6018C or IT6642C, where real-time precision is paramount.

Choosing the Right Method

Selecting a data-gathering method depends on test goals, model capabilities, and operational constraints. Here’s how to decide:

 

• Long-Term, Post-Test Analysis:

  • Choose: USB Memory Stick.
  •  Why: Ideal for extended logging (hours or days) with no real-time need.
  •  Model Fit: IT6642C or IT6005C for fast sampling; IT7915P for AC tests.
  •  Scenario: Battery endurance testing over 24 hours.

   

  Real-Time Monitoring, Moderate Detail:

   

  • Choose: SCPI Query (Measure for spot checks, Fetch for continuous data).
  • Why: Balances accessibility and live feedback without complex setup.
  •  Model Fit: IT8206 for AC grids; IT6018C for DC flexibility.
  •  Scenario: Verifying voltage stability during a live demo.

   

  High-Speed, Detailed Capture:

• Choose: E-Log Function.

  •  Why: Captures transients with precision and offers real-time potential.
  •  Model Fit: IT6000C series or IT6642C (DC only).
  •  Scenario: Analyzing power supply rise time in a motor startup test.

   

ITECH Power Supply Models Overview

ITECH offers a range of power supplies tailored to diverse applications, from renewable energy to aerospace. Here’s a brief introduction to key models mentioned in this article:

• IT6000C Series (e.g., IT6005C, IT6018C): Bi-directional DC power supplies with high power density, ideal for battery testing and renewable energy applications. They support fast sampling rates (down to 0.1 ms) and advanced features like E-Log.
• IT6642C: A newer-generation DC power supply with enhanced data logging capabilities, offering microsecond-level sampling via USB and E-Log for detailed transient analysis.
• IT7915P & IT8206 (AC Models): AC power supplies and grid simulators designed for power quality testing. These lack E-Log but excel with USB and SCPI methods for RMS data logging.

Each model’s capabilities influence the choice of data-gathering method, depending on test duration, precision, and real-time requirements.

Conclusion

ITECH power supplies, from the versatile IT6000C series to specialized AC models like IT7915P, provide robust data-gathering options tailored to diverse needs. The USB Memory Stick excels in simplicity and long-term logging, SCPI Queries offer real-time flexibility, and E-Log delivers unmatched precision for demanding DC tests. By understanding each method’s strengths and aligning them with test scenarios and model features, engineers can ensure accurate, efficient data collection for any application.