The PX8000 is an immensely versatile instrument, unlocking precision power measurement capabilities for researchers working on everything from renewable power to advanced robotics.

Inverter and motor testing

Electric and hybrid vehicles have many electrical and mechanical components, and overall performance evaluation requires measuring the efficiency of both. The PX8000's flexibility, accuracy and wide bandwidth make it ideal for drawing together the range of power readings needed to optimize the efficiency of boost circuits and inverters- two key elements in overall electric vehicle performance.

Reactor loss measurement of inverter boost circuits

A reactor is used to filter out noise and boost voltage levels prior to the use of an inverter. It consists of an electromagnetic material core and a coil. A main focus for electrical engineers is to reduce power loss across the total inverter system, and reactor performance is of particular interest. There are two potential evaluation methods: direct loss measurement of the reactor and iron loss measurement. The PX8000 supports either methodology because it can accommodate both high frequency measurement and low-power-factor conditions. 

Wireless charger efficiency measurement

The development of wireless charging technology for mobile devices like smartphones and tablet devices is a focus for research. Automotive manufacturers are looking into the possibility of charging electric vehicles wirelessly. Wireless charging depends on two electromagnetic coils being configured to support particular frequency profiles. Efficient power transfer and the prevention of power loss are naturally particularly important. The PX8000 is ideally suited for measuring such systems because of its ability to operate at high frequencies and low power factors.

Power distribution

Power distribution systems have to maintain constant voltage and constant power during load switching or in the case of a short circuit. Distribution protectors or circuit breakers for three-phase electrical systems must therefore be tested at transient voltage and power levels. The PX8000 can capture fluctuation voltage and current waveform, calculate power parameters (including voltage and current values), determine an average over a specified period and display all values.

Transient responses of industrial robots

To evaluate motor-driven robots, power consumption of all motors and controllers are measured throughout all operational speeds and action patterns. Design engineers need to measure inrush voltage, current and power over the pattern of repeated actions. Efficiency is calculated by comparing mechanical output with input power. During actual operating conditions, the time to accelerate and decelerate such motors can range from several hundred milliseconds to several seconds. As a PWM-driven motor rotates from the reset position to the top speed, the drive frequency from the rest position to the top speed, the drive frequency changes from DC to several hundred Hz. The PX8000 gives design engineers insight into power consumption and efficiency throughout a robot's operational performance.