B&K Precision 1730A - Manual - Manual (Page 22)

21
This power supply is particularly well suited for manufacturing appli-
cations because of its ease of operation and its continuous duty rating.
When load current or total power dissipation are among the main
characteristics to be measured, the total load current and voltage are
instantly displayed on the two meters. The current limit can be set so that
all units which do not meet the load current specification will cause the
CC indicator to light, and the unit can be rejected.
ELECTRONICS DESIGN LAB
The technician or engineer working in an engineering laboratory
requires a dc power supply to power breadboard and prototype circuits.
This power supply is ideal because it monitors both current and voltage
simultaneously, limits current to protect the circuit, is adjustable over a
wide range, and has excellent regulation and very low ripple.
Use of the instrument in an engineering laboratory is very similar to
that described for servicing electronics equipment and modules, except
that lower currents may be prevalent when powering individual circuits.
The current limiting feature is very valuable in this application because it
can protect unproven circuits from damage.
ELECTRONICS EDUCATION
The student in an electronics curriculum may use the power supply for
powering equipment and circuits as previously described for all other
applications. In addition, the power supply
can be used in the classroom labo ratory to conduct experiments in
fundamental electronics. In learning Ohm’s law, for example, the
relationships of resistance, current, and
voltage are vividly demonstrated by the use of a power supply.
Being able to observe both the current and voltage meter
simultaneously is a great aid in such experiments
.
BATTERY CHARGING
The power supply can be used as a battery charger to restore the
charge in rechargeable batteries such as lead-acid, nickel-cadmium,
and some alkaline types. Refer to the battery man ufacturer’s
charging specifica tions for proper voltage and current settings.
Charging information is sometimes printed on the batteries. Battery
charging, at least initially, requires the constant current mode of
operation. Before connecting the power sup ply to the battery, preset
the VOLTAGE controls to the fully charged terminal voltage
specified by the battery manufacturer. Turn off the power supply
while connecting the battery. Observe proper polarity and connect as
for constant current operation. Adjust the CURRENT control for the
maximum charging current specified by the battery manufacturer (If
the maximum charging current is greater than the power supply’s
maximum load current, set the CURRENT control to maximum). The
CC indicator will light and the battery will charge at the preset
current limit, which can be read on the A meter. As the battery
approaches full charge, its terminal voltage will approach that of the
power supply output and the charging current will taper off. The
power supply may automatically switch to CV (constant voltage)
operation. When this occurs, the power supply will continue to
provide a trickle charge.
APPLICATIONS