Configuring Parallel Tracking Mode on a Triple Output DC Power Supply
Need more than 3 Amps for a high-power load? Learn how to safely configure your programmable triple output DC power supply in Parallel Tracking Mode to double your current capacity.
Why Use Parallel Tracking Mode?
Standard bench power supplies typically max out at 3A per channel. This is perfectly adequate for most logic boards, microcontrollers, and sensor testing. But what happens when you need to test a high-power DC motor, a thermoelectric cooler (Peltier device), a high-brightness LED array, or an automotive actuator that draws 5A or 6A?
Instead of purchasing a massive, expensive, single-channel high-current power supply that takes up half your bench, you can utilize the built-in Parallel Tracking Mode of a triple output DC power supply. This mode allows you to combine the current capabilities of Channel 1 and Channel 2, effectively turning a 30V/3A supply into a 30V/6A powerhouse.
Step 1: Enable Parallel Tracking via the Front Panel
Before connecting any wires to your Device Under Test (DUT), you must configure the power supply internally. Locate the tracking control buttons on your front panel (often labeled INDEP, SER, PAR) and press the PARALLEL button.
When Parallel mode is engaged, the power supply designates CH1 as the "Master" and CH2 as the "Slave." The internal circuitry locks the voltage of CH2 to exactly match the voltage of CH1. This precision matching is critical; if you manually wired two independent power supplies in parallel without exact voltage matching, the supply with the slightly higher voltage would attempt to back-feed current into the lower voltage supply, potentially causing damage.
Step 2: Wire the Output Terminals
While the power supply handles the voltage matching internally, you must still physically wire the channels together externally to combine the current paths.
- The Positive Rail (+):
Use a thick gauge wire (e.g., 14 AWG or thicker, depending on current) to connect the CH1 (+) red terminal to the CH2 (+) red terminal. Connect your load's positive lead to this junction. - The Negative Rail (-):
Use a thick gauge wire to connect the CH1 (-) black terminal to the CH2 (-) black terminal. Connect your load's negative lead to this junction.
Wire Gauge Matters: When drawing 6 Amps, thin test leads will experience significant voltage drop and may overheat. Always use appropriately rated, thick gauge cables for high-current parallel setups.
Step 3: Adjust and Monitor
Once wired, turn the voltage dial for CH1 (the Master). You will notice that the voltage display for CH2 automatically follows CH1 perfectly.
When you turn the output ON, the total current delivered to your load will be the sum of the current displayed on CH1 and CH2. For example, if your load requires 5.0A, you will typically see CH1 displaying ~2.5A and CH2 displaying ~2.5A, as they share the load equally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I parallel CH3 with CH1 and CH2?
No. On almost all triple output DC power supplies, the parallel tracking feature is exclusively designed for CH1 and CH2. CH3 is a dedicated, isolated channel (usually 5V/3A) and cannot be internally synced or safely paralleled with the main channels.
How do I set the current limit in Parallel Mode?
You set the current limit using the Master channel (CH1). If you want a total system current limit of 4A, you typically set the CH1 current limit to 2A (since the load is shared equally). Always consult your specific instrument's manual, as UI implementations can vary slightly.
Is it safe to leave the external parallel wires connected when switching back to Independent mode?
Absolutely not. You must remove the external bridging wires before switching the power supply back to Independent (INDEP) mode. If you leave them connected and set CH1 to 12V and CH2 to 5V, CH1 will aggressively back-feed into CH2, potentially destroying the power supply's internal circuitry.
Need a High-Power Bench Supply?
Our triple output supplies offer seamless parallel tracking, giving you up to 6A of ultra-clean linear power when you need it, without sacrificing bench space.
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