AMETEK ReFlex - Manual (Page 251)

DC Power Supplies ReFlex Power™
6-48 M380056-01 Rev K
6.5.3
M
ODES OF
O
PERATION
The DC power supply modules are capable of operating in either standalone or in
groupings of parallel, series, or series/parallel output configurations. This allows
extending the power, voltage, and current ratings while minimizing the number of
unique modules comprising a system. When configured in groups, the modules
are programmed and controlled as single, virtual channels. All configuration
setup within the modules for implementing groups is performed automatically.
However, the output power and remote sense leads must be appropriately
hardwired before issuing the grouping commands.
S TANDALONE O PERATION
Modules operated in standalone mode function as independent DC power
supplies. The outputs are isolated from adjacent modules, and could be
configured for positive, negative, or floating outputs with respect to the
chassis ground. The Mainframe backplane control and data communications
interface is also isolated; therefore, there are no restrictions as to the physical
location of a module within the Mainframe when it is operated in standalone
mode.
P ARALLEL O PERATION
Operation of modules in a parallel group requires routing of analog control
signals through the backplane between the modules, as well as the digital
control/communications, to implement a master/slave control interface. The
routing of signals in this interface requires that parallel modules must be
located in a contiguous physical group; no intervening modules (which are
not part of the parallel group) are allowed to be located within the parallel
group. Individual modules of the group can be separated by empty slots, and
the group can be extended between two Mainframes. The outputs of the
modules must be hardwired externally, while all internal control signal
connections are combined automatically when the parallel group is set up
through software. The remote sense leads are connected only to the master
module. The parallel group is programmed as a “virtual” module, equivalent
to a single module with the combined current rating of the parallel group of
modules. Only modules of the same model number could be paralleled.
S ERIES O PERATION
Modules could be operated in a series group regardless of their location in
the ReFlex Power™ system. The series group does not utilize the analog
control signals of the backplane; therefore, it is not restricted by contiguous
physical location as in a parallel group. The module with the lowest address
[n], is the series group master. The outputs and remote sense of the modules
must be hardwired externally, while all internal control signal connections are