Hubert A1230-02 User manual

Operating Manual
A1230-02
4-Quadrant Voltage Amplifier (2-Channel)
DC – 7 MHz 450 V/µs 2x 185 W (Source) 2x 68 W (Sink)
Revision 3.0
MA-12300100-03

Contents
1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................3
2 For Your Safety...............................................................................................................5
3 Operating Elements.........................................................................................................9
4 1230-MultiChannel-Control Software..........................................................................13
5 Notes on Operation.......................................................................................................18
6 Integration into utomated Test Systems......................................................................22
7 Maintenance and Service..............................................................................................25
8 Decommissioning and Disposal....................................................................................26
9 Warranty.......................................................................................................................26
10 Contact Information....................................................................................................27
11 Guidelines...................................................................................................................27
12 Document History.......................................................................................................28
1230-02

1 Introduction
1.1 Device Description
The 1230-02 is a linear, extremely wideband precision power amplifier. It is ideal for all
applications that require fast changing signals at any purely resistive and complex loads.
The 1230-02 has two summable inputs per channel with 50 Ω and 100 kΩ input resistance; the
50 Ω input makes it the ideal downstream equipment for conventional function generators.
Two optional operating voltages are available for high-voltage/low-current or low-voltage/high-
current applications. Especially in case of very low-impedance loads, choosing the low operating
voltage leads to a considerable reduction of the power loss and a higher output current.
If higher output voltages are required, the preamplifier output ( Bridge Out ) allows a simple set-up
of a bridge circuit with the second channel of the 1230-02 for doubling the output voltage.
Use the plug-on adapter box to easily connect both channels in parallel if more current is required.
Operation with equal output signals is strictly required in this setup.
The device is equipped with a temperature-controlled, low noise fan. It also features an over-
temperature protection. power-loss calculation and an absolute-current monitoring guarantee
perfect short-circuit and overload protection. The operation is implemented over the operating
elements on the front panel. In addition, the amplifier is fully remote controllable via the USB port
using a simple byte protocol.
If even higher output voltages or higher output currents are required, configurations with series or
parallel connections of several 1230-02 are possible.
Always read the enclosed data sheet
The separate data sheet is part of these operating instructions and must also be read and
understood. Device-speci c modi cations on customer request can only be found in the data sheet!
The data sheet is part of the scope of delivery of the device and can be downloaded from our
website www.drhubert.com.
A1230-02 Introduction Page 3

1.2 Scope of Delivery
•USB thumb-drive including
◦These operating instructions
◦Datasheet
◦pplication software 1230-Multichannel-Control
•Power cable
•USB cable
•BNC wire (ca. 8 cm) for bridge operation
•4 mm connector for bridge operation
•dapter box for parallel operation
•BNC wire (ca. 18 cm) for parallel operation
•BNC T-piece adapter for parallel operation
A1230-02 Introduction Page 4

2 For Your Safety
2.1 Used Symbols and Notations
2.1.1 Warning Level
Type and source of danger
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.
Type and source of danger
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
Type and source of danger
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate
injury or property damage.
Type and source of danger
Indicates important information about the product or procedures that should be considered for the
correct functioning of the device.
2.1.2 Used Warning Symbols
Warning about a dangerous voltage
Warning about general danger
Description of what should be done or what to pay attention to
A1230-02 For Your Safety Page 5

2.2 General Safety Advice
The following general safety instructions must be observed during the use of this device.
Disregarding this advice or specific warnings in this manual will violate safety standards in the
intended uses of this equipment.
The manufacturer is not responsible for consequences resulting from disregarding the advice and
warnings.
Electrical voltage – Danger of electric shock
Parts under voltage:
Always cover all parts under voltage that inevitably arise during operation.
Touching of cables, sockets and plugs:
Never touch the contacts of cables, sockets or plugs directly after disconnecting them, as there is a
risk of electric shock.
Contact between amplifier outputs and PE:
Touching an ampli er output and PE at the same time can result in a life threatening electric shock.
Earth the device:
The device ful lls the requirements for protection class I. To avoid the risk of electric shock, the
device housing must be earthed and therefore always operate the device via the supplied three-
core power cable with protective conductor. The mains cable may only be plugged into a grounded
socket with a protective earth contact. An interruption of the protective earth conductor inside or
outside the device reduces the safety of the device and is prohibited.
Safety Regulations for the work with electrical equipment:
- Disconnect mains!
- Prevent reconnection!
- Test for absence of harmful voltages!
- Ground and short circuits!
- Cover or close of nearby live parts!
Devices with a heavy current connection:
Devices with a heavy current connection may only be operated via a 4-pole RCD with ≤40 ms at 5 x
IΔn. If it is not possible to install the RCD in the building installation, then our device must be
connected to the mains supply via a mobile distributor with the appropriate RCD.
Do not open the housing:
Covers must not be removed by the operating personnel. Maintenance and repair work is reserved
exclusively for quali ed service personnel.
A1230-02 For Your Safety Page 6

Important notes
The device must be used exclusively for its intended purpose.
The device is only approved for operation within the connected loads speci ed on the type label.
Do not insert any mechanical parts, especially metal parts, into the device through the ventilation
slots.
Protect the unit from moisture, humidity and condensation. Avoid using liquids near the device.
Never connect loads while the ampli er outputs are switched on.
Operate the device exclusively on the public power supply system (no generators/UPS).
To avoid personal injury and property damage, make sure that the equipment and components
used in the test are not overloaded. Read all operating instructions for the devices used thoroughly
and ensure that all defined device limits are adhered to. If there are doubts about the suitability of
the devices for the test to be performed, contact the manufacturer of the device.
2.3 Intended Use
2.3.1 Hardware
The device is intended exclusively for use as an LF power amplifier. Typical applications are the
operation as voltage amplifier on passive loads. ctive loads are only permitted under certain
conditions in agreement with the manufacturer.
Operation on active loads
Active loads are only permitted under certain conditions in agreement with the manufacturer.
The device may only be operated within the technical data and under the ambient conditions
specified in this manual.
Changes to the device are not permitted without the consent and release of the manufacturer.
Proper and safe operation of the device requires correct installation and careful operation. This
manual is part of the device and must always be accessible to the user. Observe all safety
regulations listed in this manual.
The improper use leads to the exclusion of any liability claims.
The operator alone is liable for all damage caused by improper use.
A1230-02 For Your Safety Page 7

2.3.2 Software
‘ 1230 Control’ is software developed to control and configure HUBERT power amplifier. Take into
account technical data and applications described in this manual. Changes to the software are not
permitted without the consent and release of the manufacturer. Proper and safe operation of the
software requires correct installation and careful operation. This manual is part of the software and
must always be accessible to the user. Observe all safety regulations listed in this manual.
2.4 User
Operation may only be performed by qualified persons.
Reading and understanding the operating instructions
Never use the device without having read and understood the operating instructions. Always contact
the manufacturer if you have any questions.
Qualified persons within the meaning of the safety instructions in this manual are authorized
persons for commissioning and operating systems in accordance with the standards of safety
technology.
Risk of injury in case of insufficient qualification
Improper work can lead to personal injury and damage to property. Any work may only be carried
out by persons who have the necessary training, knowledge and experience.
A1230-02 For Your Safety Page 8

3 Operating Elements
3.1 Front Panel Elements
Each of the two amplifier channels has its own front panel elements (3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10).
[1] POWER BUTTON
On / Off switch.
(Here is implemented the switchover ready to operate / standby. The standby mode is
signaled by the weakly-lit, blue LED. The power supply disconnection is implemented with
the switch on the rear side.)
[2] S FETY SHUTDOWN 1 / 2
2 mm jacks to connect the safety shutdowns of both channels. If connected, a safety
shutdown on one channel triggers the safety shutdown on the other channel. This
shutdown is indispensable and is provided automatically if the adapter box for parallel
operation is used. Using the safety shutdown is recommended in series operation as well.
[3] OUT+ / OUT-
4 mm safety sockets, amplifier output
Reference potential (negative-socket) is connected to protective earth via 1 MΩ.
A1230-02 Operating Elements Page 9

[4] MP IN 50 Ω BUTTON
OFF: 50 Ω input is switched off
ON: 50 Ω input is switched on
[5] MP IN 100 KΩ BUTTON
OFF: 100 kΩ input is switched off
ON: 100 kΩ input is switched on
[6] GROUND SOCKET
Connection to the protective conductor potential.
[7] POWER SUPPLY HIGH / LOW BUTTON
Changing of the operating voltage
HIGH (LED on): High operating voltage (ca. ± 90 V)
LOW (LED off): Low operating voltage (ca. ± 45 V)
recommended for low-impedance loads
[8] IN 100 KΩ
100 kΩ Signal input; isolated BNC socket
Reference potential is connected to protective earth via 1 MΩ.
[9] IN 50 KΩ
50 Ω Signal input; isolated BNC socket
Reference potential is connected to protective earth via 1 MΩ.
[10] RE DY/PROTECTION LED
Green: Lights up when the amplifier is ready for operation.
(RE DY)
Red: Signals the intervention of a protection mechanism.
Red LED lights up constantly: Over-temperature protection; the device switches on
automatically after the drop of the temperature.
Red LED flashes slowly (≈1/s): Disconnection because of exceeding the permissible
power loss or output current.
Red LED flashes rapidly (≈3/s): Hardware fault. The device must be sent to the
manufacturer
A1230-02 Operating Elements Page 10

3.2 Back Panel Elements
[1] PLUG FOR NON-HE TING PP R TUS (C13) WITH M INS SWITCH ND
FUSEHOLDER
Fuse 4 T (5x20 mm)
[2] IN-2 100 KΩ BNC SOCKET
100 kΩ signal input; isolated BNC socket
Reference potential is connected to protective earth via 1 MΩ.
Connect to socket [3] in bridge operation.
[3] BRIDGE OUT BNC SOCKET
Inverted preamp output for simple setup of bridge circuits
[4] INTERLOCK 1
BNC socket with shorting plug
Remote-controlled safety shutdown turns off the amplifier via an external switch (breaker,
normally closed contact)
If safety shutdown was triggered: MPLIFIER ON LED is OFF and RE DY LED is ON
[5] INTERLOCK 2
BNC socket with shorting plug
Remote-controlled safety shutdown turns off the amplifier via an external switch (breaker,
normally closed contact)
A1230-02 Operating Elements Page 11

If safety shutdown was triggered: MPLIFIER ON LED is OFF and RE DY LED is ON
[6] COMPUTER USB
USB-socket for connecting to a computer (emulated COM-Port)
[7] COMPUTER L N
Ethernet socket (RJ-45) for connecting to a computer
A1230-02 Operating Elements Page 12

4 1230-MultiChannel-Control Software
4.1 Hardware and Software Requirements
To run the software, you need a computer running Windows 10 and a free USB port.
4.2 Installation of the Software
Insert the supplied USB stick into an USB port on your computer. Open the drive in Windows
Explorer and locate to setup.exe.
•dditional drivers and required additional programs are installed within the framework of the
installation routine and require administrative access rights.
•The driver devices required for the device are tested and do not represent any security risk!
The possible security risks documented by your operating system due to non-certified
drivers can be ignored.
•Continue to follow the instructions on the screen.
•The installation program generates the directory 1230-MultiChannel-Control.
A1230-02 A1230-MultiChannel-Control Software Page 13

4.3 Operation of the Software
The above software 1230-MultiChannel-Control always shows both amplifier channels. The
following buttons and indications are identical and available for each channel separately.
[1] CONFIGUR TION
The configuration menu is called up.
The following characteristics of the 1230-02 can be preset with the aid of the configuration
menu (startup configuration). The amplifier then starts after the repeated switching on with
the adjusted options.
[2] DEVICE
Show the connection status (device name and used port), if a connection was established.
[3] INFO
Here you find information about your GUI software version, as well as the amplifier firmware
and the amplifier hardware.
[4] TEMPER TURE
The heat sink temperature is displayed in °C. t 75°C the amplifier switches off and at
50°C on again.
A1230-02 A1230-MultiChannel-Control Software Page 14

[5] M X. POWERLOSS
The maximum power dissipation of the power semiconductors is displayed in %. t 100%
the amplifier switches off. For short signals the maximum power dissipation can be
significantly higher than the average power dissipation. The displayed values are rated with
the heat sink temperature and therefore greater at higher temperatures.
[6] ME N POWERLOSS
The average power dissipation of the power semiconductors is displayed in %. It is a
measure of the long-term warming of the amplifier. t 100% the amplifier switches off. For
short signals the maximum power dissipation can be significantly higher than the average
power dissipation. The displayed values are rated with the heat sink temperature and
therefore greater at higher temperatures.
[7] QUIT
Quits the application.
[8] RESET INTERLOCK
Only possible if the interlock-mode latching is configured. fter safety shutdown has taken
place, the interlock function must be reset manually. The amplifier can now be switched on
again ( mplifier On).
[9] ST TUS INDIC TION
Green, Ready:
Signals the operational readiness of the amplifier.
Red, short-circuit_current exceeded
The short-circuit current cut-off has been activated.
Red, Current + exceeded
The permissible positive transistor current has been exceeded
Red, Current – exceeded
The permissible negative transistor current has been exceeded
Red, Power Loss + exceeded
The permissible operating range of the positive side of the power semiconductors has been
exceeded.
Red, Power Loss – exceeded
The permissible operating range of the negative side of the power semiconductors has
been exceeded.
Red, Temperature exceeded
The permissible temperature of the heat sink has been exceeded.
Red, Transformer temperature exceeded
The permissible temperature of the power transformer has been exceeded.
Red, Hardware Error:
n amplifier error was detected.
[10] CONNECT
Selection and activation of the device interface.
A1230-02 A1230-MultiChannel-Control Software Page 15

[11] POWER SUPPLY
Selecting the operating voltage of the amplifier.
Operating voltage Ub - high Ub + high
ca. +/-45 V Off Off
ca. +/-90 V On On
[12] INPUTS 50 OHM / 100 KOHM
The signal inputs of the amplifier can be switched on and off by clicking on the box.
[13] OUTPUT REL Y
The signal output of the amplifier can be turned on and off by clicking the appropriate box.
4.3.1 Connect Menu
The available amplifiers are listed with their corresponding port. connection is established after
clicking on ‘Select device and confirm here’.
The device name can be freely changed by a double-click on a list entry (please note tool tip).
With the aid of ‘Check Devices’, connected devices can be searched for renewed.
A1230-02 A1230-MultiChannel-Control Software Page 16

4.3.2 Con guration Menu
Here the default values for some parameters can be changed. These values are read when the
software starts.
[1] POWER SUPPLY
Selecting the operating voltage of the amplifier. The operating voltages can also be set
unbalanced by remote commands.
[2] 50 OHM INPUT
Selection of the state of the 50Ω input.
[3] 100 KOHM INPUT
Selection of the state of the 100 kΩ input.
[4] INTERLOCK
Setting the interlock mode.
L TCHING: fter an interlock, the interlock state must be reset by a remote command
before the amplifier can be switched through again.
LIVE: The amplifier can be switched through again immediately after the interlock state has
ended.
OFF: Interlock deactivated (default)
[5] S VE V LUES
The configuration data is stored as initial values in the amplifier.
[6] LE VE CONFIGUR TION
Exit the configuration menu and return to the control menu.
A1230-02 A1230-MultiChannel-Control Software Page 17

5 Notes on Operation
5.1 General Notes
Provide for sufficient space behind and in front of the amplifier, so that air can circulate through the
device unobstructed. Cool air is sucked through the slots at the left and right side of the front
panel. First connect the amplifier with the mains power connection after input/output are wired.
llow the amplifier a warm-up phase of 15 minutes after switching on, for the stabilization of its
operating points.
5.2 Operating Voltages
Before the amplification begins, some considerations relating to the selection of the operating
voltage are recommended for an effective and safe operation of the 1230-02 (see also White
Paper No.1: HUBERT Power mplifier on our website).
The amplifiers have two operating voltages:
•High operating voltage (±90 V) for high output voltages and low load currents
•Low operating voltage (±45 V) for low output voltages and high load currents
In order to keep the power loss of the amplifier low, the operating voltage should always be
selected according to the load.
Example:
The load current IL should be 2 DC.
Load 1: RL = 25 
For IL = 2 DC an output voltage U = 50 VDC is required (U = IL * RL). The power loss PV at the
power amplifier results from the voltage drop at the power stage multiplied by the current through
it.
PV = (UB - U ) * IL = ( 90 V - 50 VDC) * 2 DC = 100 W
Load 2: RL = 5 
For the same load current IL = 2 DC an output voltage U = 10 VDC is required. The power loss at
high operating voltage is thus:
PV = (UB - U ) * IL = ( 90 V - 10 VDC) * 2 DC = 160 W
If a change is now made to the operating voltage Ulow, the following display results:
PV = (UB - U ) * IL = ( 45 V - 10 VDC) * 2 DC = 70 W
s you can see from this example, it makes more sense to use the amplifier at low-impedance
loads with low operating voltage. For high impedance loads usually an operation with high
operating voltage is required in order to reach the maximum output voltage
A1230-02 Notes on Operation Page 18

diagram with the maximum output voltages and output currents ( UI plot ) is located in the data
sheet.
5.3 Connecting the Signal Source (Single Channel)
The 1230 has two unbalanced signal inputs with BNC connector and different input resistances
of 50 Ω and 100 kΩ. Connect a 50 Ω signal source (for instance Function Generator), the output
voltage is the same at both inputs, since the gain at 100 kΩ input v = 10 and at 50 Ω input
v = 20, and thus the voltage halving by source and input resistance compensates. In short signal
lines < 2 m it does not matter which input you choose. For longer lines the 50 Ω input is
recommended in order to avoid reflections and to ensure signal integrity. However, the source must
provide the necessary output power available to drive the 50 Ω input load (3,75 V / 50 Ω = 75 m
3,75 V * 75 m = 281,25 mW). →
5.4 Connecting the Load (Single Channel)
The output of the 1230 is provided with 4 mm safety sockets at the power output. With the
cabling of your load, please also ensure sufficient contact protection; life-threatening voltages can
occur.
For safe and stable operation, the cables should be as short as possible and of similar length. The
cable cross section should not fall below 1.5 mm².
The 1230 is a fast broadband amplifier that can deliver fast pulses with very high currents. Please
remember that the wiring can contribute a significant proportion to the inductance of your load. In
critical cases you should draw a coaxial wiring into consideration.
The 1230 is stable at all complex loads. Since the output impedance of the amplifier will get
inductive at higher frequencies, this may lead to a significant overshoot with only capacitive loads.
This behavior does not indicate a possible instability of the amplifier, but is established due to an
excited series resonant circuit of output and line inductance and the connected capacity.
damping of the resonant circuit by series resistors is recommended in this case.
5.5 Operational Startup
Connect the mains cable and switch on the mains voltage at the mains switch. The illuminated
Power button signals Standby and you can switch on the device.
fter a short time, ready lights up and the amplifier is now ready to operate.
Select the best operating voltage for your load and connect it to one or both signal inputs of your
source(s). You can activate the respective input(s) with the illuminated 50 and 100 k buttons to  
start the signal processing.
Start the software when needed and establish a data connection to the amplifier. You will receive
additional data/information concerning the operating status of your amplifier.
A1230-02 Notes on Operation Page 19

The software also allows you to switch off the output relay to separate the amplifier from your load
with high impedance (100 k to signal ground).
5.6 Bridged Operation
If the output voltage of the amplifier is not sufficient or if you need even higher slew rate the
amplifier channels can be placed in a bridged mode. For this purpose the rear "Bridge Out-1"
output of the first channel is connected to the 100 kΩ input of the second channel.
lso on the front panel connect both “minus-out” jacks via the supplied short cable.
A1230-02 Notes on Operation Page 20