To power amplifiers within the source, the RS series features advanced DSP control technology. Traditional remote control methods such as GPIB or LAN, which introduces control delays in the hundreds of milliseconds and does not simulate real-time control, are also featured within the series. With the addition of the EXTD, real-time control via an analog signal is enabled, reducing delays to 100 microseconds. This is 1,000 times faster than the delay time of controlling the output via GPIB or LAN ports. The external drive option essentially allows the RS to be used as a high bandwidth amplifier, while the internal DSP continues to monitor the output in order to ensure safe operation.
External drive controls power source output in real-time
An external drive option, enabling users to directly control the output of a power source in real-time, has been released by AMETEK. The -EXTD enables the California Instruments RS series of regenerative programmable AC sources to be used in HIL test systems.