Modular Solar Array Simulators Migration Guide

Introduction

The Keysight MP4300 is the next generation of Modular Solar Array Simulator (SAS) for users of the Keysight E4360A. The MP4300 design provides higher performance and greater flexibility while maintaining compatibility with the E4360A.

Overview

The MP4300 SAS stands out as a powerful and compact upgrade to the Keysight Technologies E4360A Modular Solar Array Simulator (SAS), which was designed to provide up to 1200W of power to various instruments. Offering an impressive 6000W of power across 6 channels, the MP4300 SAS is an ideal substitute for its predecessor, boasting increased power capacity and enhanced bench-friendly capabilities. This document is tailored for pre-existing E4360A SAS users seeking a power supply with a larger power range and new customers searching for a suitable Modular SAS mainframe. As a comparison guide, it emphasizes the substantial benefits that the MP4300 SAS brings to the table.

This document comprehensively compares the specifications and capabilities of the E4360A and MP4300 SAS mainframes and their respective modules. It also provides insights into the performance of both simulators within specific, real-world applications. To maximize this guide’s benefits, use it in conjunction with the referenced external documents throughout its content. Please note that this document does not replace any manuals, and it is strongly recommended to have copies of all the relevant documentation on hand for easy reference while reading this comprehensive comparison.

Model selection guide

E4360A is a module-based solar array simulator consisting of the mainframe (E4360A) and 2 modules (E4361A and E4362A). Up to 2 output modules can be installed in each Keysight E4360A mainframe.

The following tables detail the module combinations that most accurately replace the existing E4360A counterpart.

Mainframe Comparisons

Programming and interfacing

Controlling the front panel – E4360A

The front panel of the E4360A contains the standard keys for recent Keysight instruments; An On/Off switch, four groups of keys for controlling the instrument, and a 2-inch display screen for viewing responses to key instructions.

Controlling the front panel – MP4300

As a trend in newer Keysight products, a touch interface has been integrated into the front panel of the MP4300. Most of the front panel keys from earlier instruments have been substituted for solely function keys and touch-to-access features on the front panel. A Knob turner has also been included for scrolling through display sections and entering values.

By tapping the numbers to the left of the display screen, users can access additional delays on individual channels and make desired changes to them.

SCPI Commands

Subsystem commands

All subsystem commands from the E4360A remain present in the MP4300 SAS. Some commands have been added to the latter for extended functions:

• In the [SOURce:] command, a FUNCtion keyword has been integrated. This command is used to set voltage or current priority. Note that the user must first specify the operating mode to access this command—as this command only applies in fixed mode.

• A HCOPy subsystem command has been added to the MP4300 SAS. HCOPy commands return the display image on the MP4300 front panel as well as the format (BMP, JPG, PNG)

• An LXI subsystem has also been added. The LXI:IDENtify[:STATe] 0/1 command is used to turn the LXI indicator on the front panel of the MP4300 on or off

The LIST mode in Montu is not available in GO.

Digital connectors

Both the E4360A and MP4300 contain 8-pin digital connectors on the rear of the mainframe. Digital pins are user-configurable, with each pin having one or more control functions for the mainframe. In addition, the polarity of each pin can also be configured as positive or negative.

Additional Features of the MP4300 SAS

Regenerative operation

Standard power supplies generally only prohibit energy flow from the AC input to their DC output terminals; A regenerative system also permits energy flow from the output terminals back to the AC mains. The MP4300 can direct excess power at the output back to the mainframe—a useful feature while sinking current in different applications. Note that the regenerative operation cannot be disabled in the unit.