White Paper: Test & Measurement
Are Your Efficiency Measurements Off by 10%?
SPONSORED BY: ![]()
In the race to develop high-efficiency SiC and GaN devices, precise measurement of inverter output is critical. Yet, when the same inverter was tested using current sensors from Hioki and Company A, the results showed a surprising 10% discrepancy. What caused this gap—and what does it mean for your power conversion analysis?
This white paper breaks down the findings and reveals essential insights into selecting the right current sensors for accurate inverter efficiency measurements.
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Overview
The white paper discusses the critical role of accurate measurement in evaluating the efficiency of SiC (Silicon Carbide) and GaN (Gallium Nitride) inverters, particularly in high-frequency applications. It emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate current sensors and power analyzers to ensure reliable measurements, as discrepancies can significantly affect performance assessments.
Hioki's PW8001 Power Analyzer and CT6904A Current Sensor are highlighted as superior tools for this purpose. The PW8001 is noted for its excellent performance in broadband measurements, while the CT6904A features outstanding phase characteristics, which are essential for high-frequency power measurements. The paper presents a comparison between Hioki's CT6904A and a competitor's current sensor, revealing that as switching frequencies increase, the differences in active power measurements become more pronounced. This underscores the necessity of using sensors with superior phase characteristics to achieve accurate results.
The white paper also discusses the implications of these measurements in practical applications, such as hybrid automobiles, where even small losses (as little as 10 W) can impact overall efficiency and fuel consumption. The automatic phase correction function of the PW8001 is highlighted as a significant advantage, enabling robust support for high-accuracy measurements under low-power-factor conditions.
In conclusion, the document stresses that as the demand for power conversion efficiency approaches and exceeds 99%, engineers must prioritize the use of high-quality sensors and analyzers. Hioki is committed to providing solutions that facilitate accurate and practical measurements, thereby supporting engineers in their development of advanced power electronics. For further information, readers are encouraged to visit Hioki's website or contact their sales team.