Analog Control VS Digital Control of Adjustable DC Power Supply

High-voltage direct current (HVDC) power supplies are widely used in industries, scientific research, and other fields, typically providing high-voltage and low-current outputs. If an HVDC power supply malfunctions, some equipment that relies on it—such as the speed control board of a generator—will fail to operate normally.  

To ensure the safe and stable operation of HVDC power supplies, we will discuss protection mechanisms against transient and steady-state short-circuit currents. These mechanisms help prevent damage to adjustable DC power supplies caused by short circuits.  

Transient Current Protection for High-Voltage Power Supplies  

Transient short-circuit current refers to the large current generated by an instantaneous short circuit. If this transient current exceeds the rated current of the high-voltage power supply, it can damage the power supply’s electronic and electrical components, affecting its normal operation. To protect HVDC power supplies, a specialized transient short-circuit current protection mechanism has been developed.  

- Core Principle: When a short circuit occurs and the current exceeds the rated value, the protection mechanism is triggered. A signal sent by the controller activates the mechanism, which then limits the magnitude of the short-circuit current.  

- Implementation: This mechanism involves analyzing the actual output voltage of the high-voltage power supply and corresponding signals. Through this analysis, the short-circuit current can be controlled to protect the DC variable power supply.  

Steady-State Current Protection for High-Voltage Power Supplies  

Steady-state short-circuit current refers to the current generated by internal circuit faults in an HVDC power supply under normal operating conditions. Although steady-state short-circuit currents are typically small, exceeding the rated current can still damage the power supply. In such cases, the steady-state short-circuit current protection mechanism is activated.  

- Core Principle: The core of this mechanism is a current control circuit that limits the output current of the variable voltage power supply. If an internal circuit fault occurs, the output current is restricted to prevent excessive short-circuit current.  

- Additional Measures: HVDC power supplies can be equipped with current protectors to monitor the output current. If the current exceeds the rated value, the protector automatically cuts off the current to safeguard the high-voltage power supply.  

Conclusion  

In the use of high-voltage power supplies, both transient and steady-state short-circuit currents are critical issues. Through transient and steady-state short-circuit current protection mechanisms, we can ensure the normal operation of HVDC power supplies and prevent excessive short-circuit currents from disrupting their functionality.  

If you are seeking high-quality HVDC power supplies, consider the LW5000 High-Voltage Variable DC Power Supply. Our power supply not only features short-circuit protection but also includes other safeguards such as overvoltage protection (OVP), overcurrent protection (OCP), and overheating protection (OTP). These functions help prevent potential damage in various scenarios.