AMETEK CTS VDS 200Q Series
Manual for Operation V 1.3.1 9 / 36
Safety with voltage setting
To ensure a safe operation of the DUT (Device Under Test) some restrictions in the operation of the instrument
are built in. These restrictions are explained within this paragraph.
CAUTION:
The VDS 200Q series, as well as most linear power amplifiers will create spikes at start and stop.
These are limited to 15V normally, but inductive loads can generate high voltages. Do not touch any
conducted parts of the system and be sure to remove the DUT during power up and shut down or
damage may occur.
Do not use the VDS 200Q with a parallel battery.
A four-quadrant source, like the VDS 200Q can supply both positive and negative voltage as well as positive or
negative current in any combination. It can also sink current that may be supplied from external sources. Often,
using a classic 'source' (power supply or 1 - 2 quadrant source) the user felt the need to buffer the voltage in
order to get inrush or to properly simulate the impedance of the battery in the car. This, of course, can no longer
be controlled as the source simply becomes a charger for the battery.
However, when using a four-quadrant source like the VDS 200Q and the source's voltage is set lower than the
battery, the battery can discharge through the source.
This can result in a dangerous condition, not only for the four-quadrant source, but also because you've
effectively short-circuited the battery when setting the voltage to zero (or switching the four-quadrant source off!).
Remember that all sources must have a source impedance of <10 mOhm according to ISO 7637.
Finally, by shorting (or overcharging) the battery, the battery can actually overheat, crack (releasing acid!) or
even explode due to the release of hydrogen.
CAUTION:
Do not use a parallel battery with the VDS 200Q or a dangerous condition can occur by exceeding
the current of the VDS 200Q, and/or overheating the battery.
The VDS 200Q basically is divided into 2 different operation modes, which includes their individual test routines
and supply voltage setting. The different modes can be listed as follows:
DC Source
Within this mode the VDS 200Q is used as a simple DC power source in the range of up to 80V; and an
integrated current limiter.
Arbitrary Waveform Simulator
Within this mode the VDS 200Q generates arbitrary waveforms and signals which are specified in different
standards, such as pulse 4 of ISO 7637.
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