Keysight Technologies (hereinafter Keysight) simplifies and automates test procedures while supporting repeatable and reliable measurements.

Keysight announced on the 22nd that it has launched the new PD1550A advanced dynamic power device analyzer, a next-generation double pulse tester (DPT) that enables easier and faster testing of entire power modules.

Power modules are used in various fields, such as electric vehicles (EVs), solar power inverters, trains, home appliances, and aircraft, due to their various advantages, including simple design, high energy density, and reliability.

Currently, designers can reduce the size of power electronic modules and increase efficiency through the high-speed switching operation of devices using new wide bandgap (WBG) device-based power modules.

On the other hand, testing challenges caused by WBG power modules are also being discussed, and to address this issue, a new solution is required that can eliminate prototype failures, reduce design cycles, and properly characterize devices.

Keysight stated, “The newly unveiled PD1550A expands upon the capabilities of the existing PD1500A released in 2019 to provide the first fully integrated solution capable of testing entire power modules (up to 1,360 V, up to 1,000 A).” The company added, “Automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and power converter designers can test faster and gain more valuable insights into power module characterization, thereby improving the safety and reliability of automotive power circuits.”.

Next, the advantages of the PD1550A were cited as: △ eliminating the need for customers to build, test, certify, and maintain in-house systems; and △ reducing design time and the number of required prototypes, thereby reducing costs and shortening the time to market.

Thomas Goetzl, Vice President of Keysight’s Automotive and Energy Solutions business unit, said, “High-performance double pulse test solutions built on Keysight’s expertise in measurement enable customers to focus on power semiconductor components and power modules,” adding, “The new PD1550A maintains ease of use and complies with global safety regulations while expanding the scope to test entire power modules used in high-power converter designs.”