Semi-automated power supply efficiency measuring system

The paper presents an semi-automated method to measure the efficiency of the switching mode power supplies (SMPS). This method was implemented in the automotive industry and provided quick results used to validate the product design. The authors are presenting the following algorithms: for the operational software, for test case selection and for the test cases execution. These algorithms are implemented in the LABView programming language, product developed by National Instruments Co. This semi-automated system was implemented with success into a research and development laboratory. The main advantages of this semi-automated system are: ability to provide quick measurement results, low error introduced by the system, ability to generate the test report. The results obtained with this system are presented into graphical form and table form.