DPA 503

Harmonics and interharmonics are caused by modern electronic power conditioning modules. Such, mostly non-linear, modules to control loads and to reduce power consumption is the source of voltage at unwanted frequencies superposed on the supply voltage.
Voltage fluctuations caused by varying load currents may influence luminance or spectral distribution of lighting systems. The impression of unsteadies of visual sensation induced by this light stimulus is called flicker.
The DPA503 is used for 3-phase applications but also supports single phase applications.

The DPA 503N is a fully compliant analyzer for harmonics and flicker as per the latest IEC/EN 61000-3-2, IEC/EN 61000-3-3 and JIS C 61000-3-2 as well as IEC/EN 61000-3-11 and IEC/EN 61000-3-12 requirements. The DPA503 has six independent input channels; three for voltage and three for current. It follows the design specifications as per IEC/EN 61000-4-7:2002 and Am.1:2008 (for Class A instruments) for harmonics analyzers and IEC/EN 61000-4-15:2003 for flicker meters.
Based on a real-time kernel and equipped with its own harddisk it allows to record the measuring data continuously without any gaps or overlapping. The rectangular measurement window is synchronised to each group of 10 or 12 cycles of the mains supply frequency (50Hz or 60Hz) by means of a digital PLL (Phase Lock Loop). A wide-range current input (up to 140A) avoids loss of measured data due to range switching that would occur when using different shunt resistors.
The classification of the measurement can be selected at any time, before or after the measurement has been performed. During all measurements the AC supply voltage is measured simultaneously with the current.

dpa.control is the software tool needed for the operation of the harmonics and flicker analysing system. It offers all features to control the DPA 503, to upload the recorded measuring data and for classification and analysis. It includes analysis as per the latest standards. An easy Fail/Pass function allows fast analysis while detailed data is available for extended analysis and EUT evaluation purposes.
The dpa.control offers a powerful documentation capability with direct export to Word.