Modern multi-channel power supplies offer the possibility to couple two channels in series or in parallel to double the output voltage or the output current.
This feature is very useful in cases where you have to power a device under test which requires more voltage or current than one of the individual channels of the power supply can source.
On top of that, you can save money because you do not need to purchase a new power supply for this use case which probably occurs only once in a while.
If you use a multi-channel power supply, you normally use these channels one by one. That way, you can power up each channel independently.
An IT6302 power supply has 3 channels with the following output ratings:
- 0-30V | 0-3A
- 0-30V | 0-3A
- 0-5V | 0-3A.
In most cases, this is the standard approach to select your power supply. But what if you have a particular DUT which you use rarely and is just above the 30V or 3A?
If you have a DUT with a requirement for, let's say 48V, would you buy a new power supply?
With an IT6302 you have the option of coupling two channels, either in series or in parallel. With this option, you can reach up to 60V or 6A for such an occasion, without buying a new power supply.
So how is it done?
Getting 60V / Series Mode
If you need a Voltage above the nominal 30V, you can buy a larger source or couple two channels in series mode. With this configuration, you can easily connect your load as shown in the following picture. The blue wire shows the additional wiring which helps you use the voltage of two channels.
You can couple CH1 and CH2 in series in the power supply menu:
- Press “Shift” and “I-Set”
- Scroll down with the “down” Key until you reach COUP
- Select SER with the “right” Key
- Press “Enter”
Your Display will confirm it with a “Ser” as CH2 Value.
Getting 6A / Parallel Mode
What if you are good with, let's say, 24V, but need more than 3A? Sometimes you need the current only for the start-up of your device under test.
Sure, you could buy a larger source, parallel two power supplies, wire them up and then force them in a master/slave mode. Or you can put CH1 and CH2 in parallel mode. The blue wire shows the additional wiring which helps you use the 6A output.
With these instructions you can easily parallel two channels:
- Press “Shift” and “I-Set”
- Scroll down with the “down” Key until you reach COUP
- Select PARA with the “right” Key
- Press “Enter”
Your Display will confirm it with a “PArA” as CH2 Value.
Return to Normal Mode
If you want to return to the normal 3 channel operation simply:
- Press “Shift” and “I-Set”
- Scroll down with the “down” Key until you reach COUP
- Select OFF with the “right” Key
- Press “Enter”
Wrap up
If you have a power supply like to the IT6302, it can save you a lot of investment. It is solely combining two channels and double either your output voltage or current.
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