Accredited Power Source Calibration Services

In advanced R&D and manufacturing, the “purity” of your power source is non-negotiable. At DRS Technologies, we provide expert power source calibration services to verify the performance of programmable AC and DC sources. Our laboratory ensures that your equipment delivers the exact voltage, frequency, and waveform integrity required to test sensitive electronics, ensuring compliance with global standards like MIL-STD-704 or IEC 61000.

Why Signal Integrity and Frequency Accuracy Matter

Power sources are more than just “batteries”—they are sophisticated signal generators. Over time, internal oscillators can drift, and output amplifiers can lose linearity, leading to harmonic distortion or frequency shifts. In aerospace or telecommunications testing, a 1% error in frequency or a noisy AC sine wave can lead to false failures in your device under test (DUT). Regular calibration by DRS Technologies protects your testing integrity and ensures your facility meets ISO 9001 requirements.

Our Technical Power Source Calibration Process

We employ a comprehensive protocol using high-speed power analyzers and precision loads:

  1. Harmonic Distortion (THD) Analysis: We use power quality analyzers to measure Total Harmonic Distortion, ensuring the AC output is a clean sine wave free from clipping or noise.

  2. Frequency and Phase Accuracy: For multi-phase AC sources, we verify that phase angles (e.g., 120°) and frequency (e.g., 400Hz for aerospace) are stable and precise.

  3. Dynamic Load Response: We measure how the power source handles “step loads”—ensuring the voltage recovers quickly without excessive overshoot or sagging.

  4. Voltage and Current Sourcing Verification: We test the equipment across its full amplitude range, verifying both the output accuracy and the front-panel readback meters.

  5. NIST Traceable Certification: Every service concludes with a detailed report including as-found/as-left data, environmental conditions, and an unbroken chain of traceability to NIST.

Specialized Support for Advanced Power Systems

DRS Technologies provides elite-level support for a wide array of power technology:

  • Programmable AC Power Sources: For simulating global grid conditions (50Hz, 60Hz, 400Hz).

  • Regenerative Grid Simulators: Used in renewable energy and EV charging research.

  • Precision DC Power Systems: High-stability sources for semiconductor testing.

  • Frequency Converters: Verifying conversion efficiency and signal stability.

  • UPS and Inverter Testing Systems: Ensuring backup systems meet output specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Power Source Calibration

What is the difference between a power supply and a power source?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, a “power source” typically refers to more complex, programmable equipment capable of simulating AC grid variations, frequency shifts, and complex waveforms. Calibration for power sources requires specialized analyzers to measure phase angles and harmonics that standard multimeter-based power supply calibration does not cover.

How often should programmable power sources be calibrated?

Due to the high-power levels and complex circuitry involved, a twelve-month calibration interval is standard. For units used in environmental stress screening (ESS) or continuous production testing, a six-month interval is recommended to monitor for thermal drift in the power stages.

Can you calibrate the “Arbitrary Waveform” function?

Yes. Many modern power sources can generate custom transients, such as voltage sags or spikes. DRS Technologies utilizes wide-bandwidth oscilloscopes and analyzers to verify that the generated waveform matches the programmed parameters in both timing and amplitude.