Agilent/Keysight PV8921A

The Keysight PV8921A is a high-performance photovoltaic array simulator for development, verification, and optimization of solar inverter maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms. This autoranging, programmable DC power source replicates real-world PV array output characteristics across variable environmental conditions—temperature, irradiance, age, and cell technology—enabling rapid, controlled testing without the constraints of outdoor solar measurement. Delivering 20 kW DC in compact 3U rack form, the PV8921A eliminates time, expense, and repeatability challenges inherent to under-the-sun testing while supporting both design laboratory validation and manufacturing verification workflows.

– Technical Specifications

• Output Voltage: 1500 VDC maximum
• Output Current: 30 A maximum
• Power Output: 20 kW DC maximum
• Input Supply: 400/480 VAC
• Power Density: 20 kW in 3U rack mount form
• Voltage & Current Measurement: Built-in instrumentation included
• Protection: Over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature safeguards

– Key Features

• Curve Mode: Mathematically synthesized I-V characteristic curves for immediate testing scenarios
• Table Mode: User-defined I-V curves with up to 1024 discrete points for custom array behavior
• Dual-Function Operation: Functions as both dedicated PV simulator and traditional autoranging DC power supply
• Scalability: Units parallelize to 600 kW total capacity for high-power inverter validation
• Instrumentation: Integrated voltage and current measurement for real-time performance monitoring

– Typical Applications

• MPPT algorithm development and optimization
• Solar inverter efficiency characterization
• Grid-tied and off-grid inverter validation
• Photovoltaic system behavior simulation under transient and steady-state conditions

– Compatibility & Integration

Communication interfaces include LAN (LXI Core), USB, and GPIB. Control software options include DG8900A SAS Control Pro (single-unit operation with curve creation and visualization) and DG9000A Advanced Multi-Input Photovoltaic Inverter Test Software (operation of 1–12 PV8900A units or primary/secondary module combinations).