Precision Calorimetry for the Accurate Measurement of Losses in Power Electronic Devices

The direct measurement of losses in power electronic systems is possible through the use of a calorimeter. An improved and fully automated version of a "mini" double-jacketed, closed type calorimeter is described in this paper. The accuracy of the calorimeter has been confirmed by calibration tests and is better than 90 mW in 25 W. The losses in the ballast circuit of compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) and mobile (cellphone) chargers for domestic use have been measured in this calorimeter and compared to conventional measuring methods.