Separately Derived Sources (PDF) The Separately Derived Source (SDS) is one of the most cost-effective power quality measures that can be implemented for a sensitive load. Installation of a properly grounded, bonded, and located SDS can provide complete immunity from common-mode and grounding problems. However, improper installation of an SDS can result in a degraded… Read more »

Voltage Regulation (PDF) One of the most popular forms of power conditioning over the past 20 years has been the Voltage Regulator. The concept of voltage regulation is simple: monitor the level of voltage being fed to the sensitive load (usually the RMS voltage) and add or subtract voltage to achieve a desired output voltage…. Read more »

Pulsing Loads (PDF) Recently, higher levels of computerization have spread to many industries. Gasoline stations, medical imaging equipment, home appliances, factory automation – the list of equipment and industries that now rely on the computer and the microprocessor continues to grow. Along with this growth comes an increased requirement for power conditioning devices to protect… Read more »

Agency Approvals (PDF) Overseas manufacturers have known that in order to compete in the North American markets, they must design equipment to meet US and Canadian safety standards. Domestic manufacturers are learning that product certification to international safety standards is a critical step to successfully market and sell products abroad. Safety Standards Safety standards have… Read more »

Lightning Storms (PDF) It is the stuff of office legend – Monday morning, after a big thunderstorm has rolled through the area, and many of the computers and electronic devices in the building have shut down, or worse, are damaged. “We took a direct hit” says the facility manager, as the company scrambles to recover…. Read more »

World Voltages (PDF) Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) face a difficult task with regard to Mains Interfaces. In most cases, a complex system is designed to operate from the electrical system of the country of origin. Exporting this device to other countries may result in problems if the equipment has not been designed to operate from… Read more »

Transformer Ratings (PDF) Transformer size or capacity is most often expressed in kVA. “We require 30 kVA of power for this system” is one example, or “The facility has a 480 VAC feed rated for 112.5 kVA”. However, reliance upon only kVA rating can result in safety and performance problems when sizing transformers to feed… Read more »

Impulse Testing (PDF) The Problem: Impulses and transients that are damaging or disrupting your sensitive systems. The Solution: Power Conditioner. Case closed! Unfortunately, it is not always so easy. There are many poorly designed or manufactured devices on the market masquerading as power conditioners. As an end-user, it is often difficult to separate the high… Read more »

Power Monitoring (PDF) The immediate response to a power problem is to hook up a Power Monitor. These devices, specifically developed to detect and report AC power disturbances, were needed to prove the existence of power quality problems. As technology has improved, the power monitor has gone from a simple text device to a very… Read more »

Line Impedance (PDF) It is a common misconception that most power disturbances are generated outside of the facility. In this view, the electric utility is guilty of providing “dirty power” that the facility must cope with. While some power problems do originate outside of the facility, many disturbances are caused internally. These disturbances are created… Read more »