|
How is a SIMPCU used?
The SIMPCU is typically inserted as a power
control device to programmatically control the flow
of electrical current and can be
connected directly to a power source or load.
The SIMPCU can operate as stand-alone or be
networked with other SIMPCUs or a
SIMPMC to from a controlled power network.
How does a SIMPCU differ from a Contactor or Relay?
The SIMPCU is a solid state (semiconductor)
device capable of switching up to 15 kHz.
Contactors and relays often operate with
mechanical contacts that have a finite number of
cycles before failure and are limited to
electro-mechanical switching properties.
How does a SIMPCU differ from a Power Supply or Function Generator?
Not only is the SIMPCU capable of producing
various composite voltages, it also can produce
waveforms with high load currents. The SIMPCU is
also rugged and packaged for embedded
applications, such as an engine compartment.
Can I use a SIMPCU by itself?
Yes! The SIMPCU can be configured and wired
to control a single power device, such as high
volume fan. With external sensing capabilities,
the SIMPCU can also be programmed to perform
closed loop control. It can also be used
to soft start and soft stop a motor to
eliminate current inrush transients.
How can I communicate to a SIMPCU?
The standard industrial communication to the
SIMPCU is via a Controller Area Network (CAN).
Communication options include ethernet,
wireless, Modbus, etc.
What happens if a SIMPCU fails?
In an event that the SIMPCU is subjected to
an extreme power condition, the SIMPCU can be
configured to default to a close-circuit or open
circuit mode.
How can I benefit from the SIMPCU's PWM capability?
The Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
functionality of the SIMPCU allows for a
variable pulse train output than results is a
controlled voltage and current. A classic use of
this functionality is for soft-starting an
electric motor. A motor typically requires a
large inrush current to rotate. A controlled PWM
can ramp start the motor in a fashion that
eliminates the severe inrush current. This PWM
functionality also provides a convenient dimming
method for controlling lighting.
How is the SIMPCU protected against reverse polarity?
Should the SIMPCU be connected in reverse,
it will conduct as a short circuit.
How efficient is the SIMPCU?
The SIMPCU has been tested to achieve up to
99.7% efficiency!
Can the SIMPCU produce a sawtooth waveform?
Yes! The SIMPCU can produce nearly any
waveform including sine, square, triangle,
sawtooth, etc. The SIMPCU can be configured to
transition to simulate power dips and other
challenging power signatures. This is used to
stress-test and evaluate load, sensor, and
system robustness when operating under noisy
power conditions. Systems include automotive,
military vehicle, heavy truck, marine, aircraft,
etc.
How can I configure the SIMPCU?
The SIMPCU can be configured from a simple
user friendly software interface.
What is the onboard sensing capability of a SIMPCU?
The SIMPCU has 13 10-bit general purpose ADC
channels that can be used to measure
temperature, speed, pressure, etc.
Can I control a network of SIMPCUs from my computer?
Yes! The SIMPCU has been designed with the
SIMPMC to perform system wide power
management and control. The SIMPMC has ethernet
connectivity, therefore it could become part of
a private local area network.
|
