PowerVision supplies feature programmable control

For many customer applications, a primary switch mode power supply with stabilised output voltage is not always necessary. Normally, a regulated output voltage that complies with the tolerances specified in the international standard IEC 61131-2 is adequate. The new PowerVision (PV) range of integrated power supply and control modules from Block UK was developed to meet both stabilised (for critical) and semi-stabilised (for non-critical) application requirements.

The PV range, with its distinctive orange coloured front panel and blue frame, is suitable for PLC-based control applications and comprises a power supply unit with programmable control module for set up of parameters. Manufactured to international standards, the PV enables engineers to recall, control and set-up performance limits/controls via a PC connection or the internet. The range covers power supply outputs from 240W up to 960W.

Half the size

By making use of the latest, efficient switch mode technology, the PV is more compact (around 50 per cent smaller) and weighs less than a conventional power supply unit. The PV is therefore attractive for companies that need to save space in control/wiring panels. The unit also has an integrated resonance transformer, enabling it to achieve an efficiency of 98 per cent.

In case of over-current occurring, the PV has a 'Real Power Boost' function that provides 200 per cent load in reserve for up to four seconds, after which the safety/protection program steps in. Using selective fusing, this makes it possible to supply multiple circuits so that in the event of a single circuit fault, the installation as a whole is not brought to a standstill.

As Bob Liddle, Managing Director at Block UK, comments: "To date, power supplies have been over-engineered to cope with the inrush of current from capacitor banks, accumulators or the starting current from electric motors. The PV's real power boost function is designed to handle this peak power for short periods."

The PV range is modular in its design, therefore customers can choose from a variety of optional extras. The all-inclusive PV includes: line voltage control; rotary field display; phase control; OEM control; current meter; voltage and current power boost; voltmeter; line and short circuit protection; monitoring software; interface and output signalling; and operational hours display. Rather than buy multiple items of electrical equipment, the customer need now buy just one – the all-inclusive PV.

Display and LEDs

Other features of the PV range include an LCD and three coloured LEDs, positioned on the side of the unit, which relate to the operational condition of the power supply. These LEDs alert the user to safe operation (green), warnings (yellow) and fault conditions (red).

The standard factory setting for the display on the PV indicates the output voltage and current. Hours of operation can be accessed at the touch of a button. Alarms can also be programmed to alert an engineer of when the next maintenance or service interval is required on the end user's equipment.

Line monitoring capability

Monitoring the line voltage supply is another optional feature available with the PV range. For companies running a large number of machines or production equipment, short-term voltage drops are often sufficient to cause numerous fault conditions and uncontrolled switching – costing the customer valuable time and money.

The PV can constantly monitor the line voltage supply, the frequency, possible phase drop-out, and the rotary field frequency. The four, freely programmable interface ports deliver the parameters of the line voltage every 0.5 seconds. The line monitor can automatically send a signal that energises a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) if the line voltage fails.

Novel mounting options

Another innovative design feature of the PV is its single-handed mounting system. A single screw opens or locks the mounting latch, ensuring safe installation or removal. The user requires only one hand to mount the unit onto a standard DIN rail. A screwless design ensures a snug fit with the mounting wall. If required, this mounting system can also be fixed on the right side of the unit to enable a flat mounting on the DIN rail. Conventional screw mounting is also provided via mounting holes.

The PVE400 semi-stabilised and PVSE400 stabilised power supplies are also available through UK distributor Farnellinone.