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Taking the time to automate a test provides a couple of benefits. Automated tests are easy to replicate and produce more consistent results. You can also leverage and modify a well-written program for other tasks. Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) are the most common commands for controlling test and measurement instruments.
A typical power supply task is to ramp the output voltage. Ramping the output voltage allows the device under test (DUT) to be tested initially with lower power and limits the inrush current. The simplest way to do this is to set the output voltage at incrementally higher levels (see the example included with “Using Python and Sockets”). A second method to ramp the output voltage is to use LIST mode. LIST mode downloads the ramp to the power supply. Once programmed, the power supply can output the LIST independently, freeing the PC for other tasks.
Another benefit of a program is that it documents the steps of your test. One way to structure an automated test is to use the steps shown in Figure 1.
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