
11
SECTION 4
P1351 AC POWER SUPPLY OPERATING CONSIDERATIONS
4.5 DRIVING NON-LINEAR LOADS (continued)
This action causes a current waveform with a peak value that may be several times the RMS value. This
ratio of peak current to RMS current is known as “Crest Factor.” High values of crest factor cause
distortion of the AC voltage waveform.
The amount of distortion incurred is dependant on many factors and is beyond the scope of this
manual. It should be noted that this type of load may cause the output waveform to exhibit “flat-
topping” This should not be associated with a defect of the power source. Most “real world” electric
distribution systems exhibit this distortion for this reason.
4.6 INPUT POWER REQUIREMENTS
The model P1351 utilizes a rectifier followed by a bank of filter capacitors. Because of this fact, it
presents a nonlinear load to the utility power. Because its input current waveform has a high crest
factor, it contains a large amount of harmonic current. These harmonic currents do not contribute to the
output power of the power source but must still be supplied by the input line. This adds up to a poor
input power factor.
IMPORTANT !
When selecting a suitable line input, it must be understood that the input current required for full output
power (1350 watts) from the P1351 may exceed 20Amps RMS. This is only true for purely resistive
loads (real Watts v.s. Volt Amperes). For this reason the unit is supplied with an IEC 320 C-20 input
receptacle. If continuous full power operation is desired, the unit must be supplied from the equivalent
NEMA type line and receptacle. The line cord supplied with the unit has standard north American
NEMA 15P at one end. This was done due to the fact that it is more convenient to most end users.
Although the cord itself can handle the current, the line end should be changed to the appropriate mate
for prolonged full power operation. Failure to do so may cause overheating of the input line
connection. This may cause a fire hazard.
Full power operation into a full resistive load may cause loading ( sagging )of the supplied line voltage
if a large series impedance is present. This is due to the high current required by the model P1351. If
problems are encountered while trying to achieve full output power, monitor the input line. If the line
drops below 110VAC, move the unit to a known “stiff” line.
4.7 OUTPUT NOISE
Because the model P1351 uses a high frequency PWM conversion technique, a certain amount of
output noise or ripple is to be expected. The amount of noise on the output voltage waveform from this
unit varies somewhat with the load. Maximum noise levels are present when there is no load applied.
In any event, the amount of noise present should not constitute a problem for properly designed
equipment. If the devices being tested are disabled by the noise present on the output waveform, then
serious consideration should be given to the design of the unit being tested as they may not pass the
European EMI tests.
In special cases where the output noise is objectionable, an external line filter can be added to the
output of the unit. Please note that most line filters are not intended to be used at 400Hz. If the noise
level is interfering with low level measurements, a linear type AC source should be considered. For
more information on linear sources, contact Behlman Sales.