Power Analysis Software for the SDS2000 Oscilloscopes

SDS-2000-PA (sw) is a power measurement and analysis application that provides a quick and easy way of analyzing the reliability and efficiency of switching power supplies:  power factor, true power, apparent power, current harmonics, phase angle, switching loss, dI/dt slew rate, dV/dt slew rate, modulation analysis, output ripple, turn on/off, transient response, efficiency analysis, etc. By using a current probe (not included) and the SDS-2000-PA (sw) power measurement option, conducted power line harmonics can be measured.  Line power analysis includes inrush current measurement showing the peak inrush current value when the power supply is first turned on.

The switching loss in a power supply determines its efficiency. The SDS-2000-PA (sw) option helps characterize instantaneous power loss and conduction power loss at the switching device over a designated switching cycle. To determine the efficiency of the power supply it is very important to measure the power loss during dynamic load changes.

By measuring the switching loss and conduction loss, you can characterize the instantaneous power dissipation in a switching power supply. Locating peak switching loss helps you analyze the reliability of the power supply. The di/dt and dv/dt measurements represent the rate at which the current and voltage change at switching. This helps in the design and testing of reliable operation for switch-mode power supplies.