PyPSUcurvetrace: a flexible, open-source curve tracer using programmable power supplies

@mbrennwa I am considering buying a PS to run pypsucurvetrace mainly to trace SIT parts. Would 2 x Korad KWR103 be the best candidate for this?

I see BK 9185B support. Within their page (https://www.bkprecision.com/products/power-supplies/9185B) they list a bunch of models with different specs. I take it any of these would work, with an added entry within powersupply_BK.py? The 9174B looks particularly interesting as it has 2 outputs and goes to 35V @3A or 70V @1.5A. I'd like to buy right the first time. I may work on tubes in the future, and so staying with BK would allow me to figure everything out on their platform and then get a 9185B from the same line later. Appreciate any advice.
 
@audioexplorations I emailed Ben at Electron Plus a couple of months ago. He was going to compile and test their proprietary software for OsX/Linux which I need. In theory it should work, but untested.

Ben said they were designing a clamp system for the CTL503 which would make testing easier. At the moment they have a bare PCB to which you can solder DUTs - seems impractical for numbers.

I would also add 4-wire connections on the outside of their case to facilitate use with leads - a small mod.

I sent him a reminder yesterday, and I'll update when I get a reply.
 
  • Like
Reactions: birdbox
@mbrennwa I am considering buying a PS to run pypsucurvetrace mainly to trace SIT parts. Would 2 x Korad KWR103 be the best candidate for this?
The KWR103 would surely work fine. Some of the Riden/Ruiden units will have better resolution, and might be cheaper.
I see BK 9185B support. Within their page (https://www.bkprecision.com/products/power-supplies/9185B) they list a bunch of models with different specs. I take it any of these would work, with an added entry within powersupply_BK.py? The 9174B looks particularly interesting as it has 2 outputs and goes to 35V @3A or 70V @1.5A. I'd like to buy right the first time. I may work on tubes in the future, and so staying with BK would allow me to figure everything out on their platform and then get a 9185B from the same line later. Appreciate any advice.
I only tested the 9185B so far. I guess it should be straight forward to extend the 9185B code to also work with other BK units, if they use the same command set. I have never used a PSU with dual outputs, so I can't tell how that goes.

Using a BK with PyPSUcurvetrace works exactly the same as a Korad or Riden/Ruiden or whatever. There will be no learning curve when using different brands of already supported PSU units. You could start with the low voltage / high current stuff for the SITs (Korad, Riden/Ruiden, etc.) and then later get a BK-9185B for tubes.
 
  • Like
Reactions: audioexplorations