How to Measure DC Inrush Current

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Digital Multimeter
+ Digital Multimeter
Digital Multimeter
+ Digital Multimeter

Accurately characterize DC inrush current

To measure DC inrush current using a digital multimeter (DMM), you’ll need a multimeter capable of capturing fast current transients, such as those with a high-speed digitizer mode. The test setup includes the DMM connected in series with the device under test, a DC power supply capable of providing sufficient current, and a method to initiate power application, such as a switch or relay that provides a clean and repeatable turn-on event. While not required, you can employ remote PC software to initiate and capture the inrush current.

The DMM is configured to capture peak current or record a time-stamped current waveform. Once the circuit is energized, the DMM records the initial surge of current as the load changes. The built-in digitizer captures this transient waveform, allowing the engineer to identify the inrush peak and its duration. Though not as fast as an oscilloscope, a high-quality DMM with a sufficient sample rate (typically in the kHz range) provides a reliable, simplified method for inrush current analysis, particularly when portability and ease of use are priorities.

DC inrush current characterization solution

High-precision instruments are necessary to accurately capture and analyze DC inrush current so you can manage this surge and avoid component damage, power instability, and regulatory noncompliance. The Keysight solution uses the Smart Bench Essentials Plus 6.5-digit DMM that features a 50-kHz digitizer to capture the high-speed waveforms of the inrush current and the EL30000 Series electronic load with a built-in oscilloscope view. Additionally, DMM control software helps to execute multiple measurements, plot statistical data for trend analysis, and highlight crucial data, such as maximum instantaneous current and average ripple current.
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