Instruction manual

CO3538-8M

Multi-Power Supply
Instruction manual
CO3538-8M
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

Preface ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5 
Name and address of manufacturer ........................................................................................................................... 5 
1 Legal information .................................................................................................................................................... 6 
1.1  Liability limitations ........................................................................................................................................... 6 
1.2  Copyright/authorisation ................................................................................................................................... 6 
1.3  Target groups .................................................................................................................................................. 7 
1.4  Symbols used .................................................................................................................................................. 7 
2  Basic safety instructions ......................................................................................................................................... 8 
2.1  Safety information ........................................................................................................................................... 8 
2.2  Safety equipment .......................................................................................................................................... 10 
2.3  Work safety measures................................................................................................................................... 11 
2.4  Specific safety instructions ............................................................................................................................ 12 
3 Description of module ........................................................................................................................................... 13 
3.1  Product brand and model name .................................................................................................................... 13 
3.2  Area of application and stipulated use........................................................................................................... 13 
3.3  Dimensions and weight ................................................................................................................................. 13 
3.4  Technical data ............................................................................................................................................... 14 
3.5  Environmental conditions .............................................................................................................................. 14 
4  Commissioning ..................................................................................................................................................... 15 
4.1  Using the equipment ..................................................................................................................................... 15 
5  Functions and controls ......................................................................................................................................... 16 
5.1  Power switch (1) ............................................................................................................................................ 17 
5.2  Fixed DC sources (2) .................................................................................................................................... 17 
5.3  Adjustable DC source (3) .............................................................................................................................. 18 
5.4  AC source (4) ................................................................................................................................................ 19 
5.5  Function generator (5) ................................................................................................................................... 20 
5.6  Three-phase source (6) ................................................................................................................................. 21 
5.7  Remote control via computer ........................................................................................................................ 21 
6  Operation.............................................................................................................................................................. 25 
6.1  Safety ............................................................................................................................................................ 25 
7  Maintenance and cleaning.................................................................................................................................... 26 
7.1  Maintenance and customer service ............................................................................................................... 26 
7.2  Spare parts .................................................................................................................................................... 26 
8  Disassembly and disposal .................................................................................................................................... 27 
8.1  Decommissioning .......................................................................................................................................... 27 
8.2  Disassembly and disposal ............................................................................................................................. 27

3
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

4
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

Preface
This instruction manual is written to be read, understood and complied with in every respect by persons intending to
use the training system.

It contains basic tips and instructions to be observed during assembly, operation, maintenance, disassembly and
disposal involving the training system.

For that reason, this manual must be read through carefully before assembly by any teaching staff, students or other
users. Only the information in this manual can prevent errors and ensure faultless operation.

Name and address of manufacturer

Manufacturer and servicing

address

LUCAS-NÜLLE GmbH
Siemensstr. 2
D-50170 Kerpen

Tel.: +49 (0) 22 73 5 67-0

Fax: +49 (0) 22 73 5 67-30

E-mail: info@lucas-nuelle.com
www.lucas-nuelle.com

5
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

1 Legal information
1.1 Liability limitations

LUCAS-NÜLLE GmbH accepts no liability for any damage occurring due to the following:

 Inappropriate or incompetent use

 Irresponsible or incorrect assembly and/or commissioning by operators or third parties
 Subsequent modifications by operators or third parties
 Natural wear and tear
 Negligent or incorrect handling, servicing or maintenance
 Actions not in keeping with the instruction manual
 Use of inappropriate materials

1.2 Copyright/authorisation

This instruction manual is authorised for the use of teaching staff and students.

The instruction manual contains specifications and drawings of a technical nature. These may not be reproduced
distributed, utilised without permission for competitive advantage or passed on to others either in part or in full.

The making of copies, including extracts, is expressly permitted to users of the training system, but only for internal
use in connection with the operation of the equipment.

6
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

1.3 Target groups

Those groups at whom this instruction manual is targeted are described as listed in the following:

Target groups - Tasks - Qualification

Target group 1 Tasks Qualification
Training staff  Supervision of students  Electrician
 Teachers  Set-up of training system
 Providing students with an initial
 Trainers
introduction to the training systems
 Educational assistants  Providing safety instructions for
 Laboratory supervisors students
 Enabling power supplies
 Rectification of minor faults
 Observation of procedures
 Recognition of faults and safety
problems and guaranteeing correct
functioning of processes related to
the training system

Target group 2 Tasks Qualification

Students  Set-up of training system  Must have had some electrical
 Modifications to training system instruction
 Trainees
set-up  Person with specific previous
 Students instruction and reading and writing
 Switching training system on and
 Work placement trainees off skills in the language of their
country
 Rectification of minor faults
 Introduced to the training system
 Observation of procedures by teaching staff
 Recognition of faults and safety
problems and guaranteeing correct
functioning of processes related to
the training system

1.4 Symbols used

Hazard symbols
Degree of risk Application
This symbol means there is a direct risk to life and health of people.
Ignoring this warning can result in a serious effect on the health of
persons and may result in life-threatening injuries.

This symbol means there is a direct risk to life and health of people.
Ignoring this warning can result in a serious effect on the health of
persons and may result in life-threatening injuries.

This symbol provides important advice on the proper and economic use of
the training system. Ignoring this warning can result in slight injuries or
adverse effects on health or may result in damage to the training system
or its environment.

7
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

2 Basic safety instructions

2.1 Safety information

The training system is designed and constructed with the latest technology and according to recognised safety
guidelines. Nevertheless, incompetent or unauthorised use of the equipment may result in risks to life and limb of
users or third parties or to damage to the training system itself or to other equipment.
The training system may only be used if it is in technically perfect operating condition and following specified
procedures with attention paid to aspects of safety and risk. Any faults which may adversely affect safety must be
rectified immediately.

This instruction manual must be stored close to the training system itself and be accessible by anyone at any time.

Validity

Apart from definitive laws of the user's respective land, and the safety guidelines applicable for operation,
maintenance and assembly of equipment as set forth by the educational establishment or company involved, the
following instructions must be observed.

Any person given responsibility for the operation, set-up, maintenance or repair of the training system must have read
and understood the relevant instruction manual and any experiment instructions.

The valid regulations for prevention of accidents should be stored within view in the vicinity of the training system and
should be accessible to anyone there. Regular instruction of users must be undertaken by those responsible for the
equipment.

Modifications

Reconfiguration and/or modification of the training system by users may only be undertaken with the consent of the
supplier. The supplier assumes no liability for any measures taken without that consent or for any damage resulting
therefrom. This includes any use of the training system that contravenes the instruction manual (during assembly/set-
up modifications and conduct of experiments using the training system).

Prevention of accidents during operation

The training system is safe to use if the instructions are adhered to correctly and the equipment uses the latest
technology. Danger may only occur under the following circumstances:

 Use of the training system by persons with no electrical instruction

 Incorrect operation of the training system
 Use of the training system that contravenes the instructions

8
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

Operators

All the safety features and operating instructions provided by the manufacturer are to be regarded as prerequisites
for the safe operation of the training system and for avoiding accidents.
The operator and teaching staff are responsible for the prevention of accidents when using the equipment. Staff
should be fully conversant with their tasks relating to use of the training system.

The operator must guarantee the following:

 Training staff are sufficiently trained for their specific task in relation to safety regulations
 Safety regulations for the workplace are made known to training staff and students and this action is documented
 Safety regulations are available for inspection at any time
 Safety regulations are obeyed

Electrical installations must meet the valid local standards. In particular, suitable earthing connections must be
provided for the training system.

Legal regulations for the prevention of accidents

Apart from the regulations specified here and all the contents of this instruction manual, as signified by hazard
symbols, the following general guidelines are also binding for the use of the training system:

 Safety regulations for EU member states

 Relevant safety regulations in countries outside the EU

Training system users

The training system is manufactured using the latest technology. It is safe to use and should be operated
appropriately by persons who have received electrical instruction under supervision of qualified teaching staff.

Non-compliance may result in risk to life and limb for the operator or for third parties, damage to the training system
or other equipment and may endanger the efficient use of the training system.

Function checks, maintenance work

Regular function checks and maintenance work advance safety.

Training staff should check the training system before use for any visible damage or shortcomings. Any changes
which may affect safety should be rectified at once.

The training staff is responsible for maintaining the training system in perfect condition at all times.

Maintenance and cleaning work are not permitted when the training system is in operation.

9
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

Protective systems

Existing protection may only be removed during the course of setting up an experiment with the power supply turned
off and must be properly replaced after the work is completed.

Ensuring safety of the workplace

During upkeep, cleaning and reconfiguration of the training system, the workplace should be protected appropriate to
the circumstances.

Power should be turned off and protection provided to stop it being turned back on.

Electrical components that cannot be turned off. Equipment must be protected from being turned on by removal of
fuses.

The housing and rear of the devices may not be covered since this may lead to impermissible heating of the
equipment and to the possible failure of the training system.

Fuses may only be removed and replaced by authorised personnel

2.2 Safety equipment

Safety equipment may not be modified, removed or rendered inoperable. Unprotected elements may cause life-
endangering injuries.

All safety equipment, such as safety switches, covers and barriers must always be functional. The operation of the
training system is not permitted if the safety equipment is faulty or missing. Correct functioning of the necessary
safety equipment must be checked before starting the training system.

10
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

2.3 Work safety measures

Personal safety

For your own safety, the necessary protective clothing and equipment must be worn.
It is not permissible to wear loose clothing or jewellery that become trapped within the training system. Long hair
should be bound with a hair net.
Prohibition of gloves: when working next to moving or rotating pieces of equipment, gloves may not be worn.

Persons under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication capable of affecting reactions are prohibited from
operating, maintaining or repairing the training system.

Protection of the feet

Danger of crushing!

Panels have sharp edges and could fall on people's feet if not correctly handled.
Always wear appropriate, safe footwear.

11
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

2.4 Specific safety instructions

Danger due to electric current

Incorrect earthing of the training system may lead to life-endangering current flows.
The training system must be earthed as stipulated
Devices with a plug-in mains power supply will be earthed via the power supply itself. Devices not powered by such
equipment must be connected to an earth conductor via the green/yellow sockets.

Danger due to electric current

It should be observed that the plugs for the training system (cables and sockets) are always connected to the
correct, identical colours and patterns.
Use the green/yellow sockets exclusively for earth connections.
Only use green/yellow cables for the earth connection

Danger due to electric current

Incorrect use of the supplied power cable can lead to life-endangering flows of current.
The training system may only be used with the supplied cabling.
Always use safety cabling and safety plugs.
Make sure that the measuring cables are in perfect condition.
All experiment cables must have continuous double insulation throughout their length.

Danger due to electric current

The training system may only be used in circuits protected by fuses or circuit breakers with a maximum rating of
16 A.

Danger due to electric current

Use the equipment in the training system only at the specified operating voltages.

12
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

3 Description of module
3.1 Product brand and model name
The multi-power supply is a multi-functional, compact power supply including a function generator and a three-phase
supply for all basic and advanced experients from the electrical engineering/electronics and digital technology ranges.
m

The equipment has protective insulation and supplies safety extra-low voltage conforming to EN 61010. All outputs
are protected by resettable fuses which can safely cut off the power when current becomes excessive but do not
need replacing afterwards as a normal fuse would. This makes the equipment especially safe, free of maintenance
and particularly suitable for use by beginners. Modern technology ensures that energy consumption is low and
reduces power losses.

3.2 Area of application and stipulated use

The multi-power supply is a training system exclusively designed for educational purposes, to be used in schools,
universities, training institutions and other educational establishments teaching the topics of electrical
engineering/electronics and digital technology (see section 3.1 “Product brand and model name”).
The training system is only authorised to be used in rooms that fulfil the local regulations for education and training.

The training system can only be operated within the bounds as stated in the technical data.
Any other use or any use which exceeds the specifications is in contravention of regulations. LUCAS-NÜLLE GmbH
assumes no liability for any damage resulting from such use. The user alone is liable for all risks.
Use of the equipment as per regulations involves constant observation of the specifications in the supplied
instruction manual.

3.3 Dimensions and weight

 Width: 228 mm
 Height: 297 mm
 Depth: 100 mm
 Total weight: 3.5 kg approx.

13
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

3.4 Technical data

 Stabilised fixed voltage: +15 V, -15 V, each rated at 1 A

 Stabilised fixed voltage: +5 V, 1 A
 Stabilised automotive voltage: 12 V, 1 A
 Stabilised adjustable voltage: 0 ... 30 V, 1 A,

 AC voltages: 12 V, 24 V, each rated at 200 mA, 50 Hz

 Three-phase supply with 3 phases + N

o Amplitude: 3 x 7/12 V
o Current capacity: 3 x 200 mA
o Frequency range: Switchable between 1 Hz and 50 Hz

 Function generator
o Frequency range: 0.1 Hz ... 1 MHz in 5 ranges
o Waveforms: Sine, triangle, rectangle, digital logic
o Output voltage: - 10 V ... 0 ... 10 V
o Attenuated output: 10:1
o Current capacity: 200 mA

 Short-circuit-proof or protected with resettable fuses on all outputs

 Buttons for various functions
 17 LEDs for displaying status
 Illuminated power switch
 2 Alpha-numeric displays indicating current and voltage (variable DC source) or voltage and frequency
(function generator)

3.5 Environmental conditions

 Max. relative humidity: 60%, without condensation
 Max. ambient temperature: 35°C

14
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

4 Commissioning

It is essential to take note of section “2.1 Safety information”

The development of this equipment prioritised the need for simple and easily understood operation.

4.1 Using the equipment

The equipment is ready to use as soon as it is plugged into to the mains and the power switch is turned on.

15
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5 Functions and controls

1
2

(1) Power switch

(2) Fixed DC sources
(3) Adjustable DC source
(4) AC source
(5) Function generator
(6) Three-phase source

16
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5.1 Power switch (1)

(1) Power switch to turn on mains power to the multi-function power

supply.

5.2 Fixed DC sources (2)

Once the supply has been turned on by means of the power switch, three regulated DC outputs are provided. These
are electronically protected against overload and short-circuits.

(1) Switch for changing between 12 V/15 V outputs (2) with LED
status indicator
(2) Output 12 V/15 V, 1 A
(3) Output 5 V, 1 A
(4) Ground
(5) Output -15 V, 1 A

17
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5.3 Adjustable DC source (3)

Once the on/off button (1) is pressed, an adjustable DC voltage of up to 30 V is provided.

3
1

4
2
5

(1) On-off switch and LED status indicator

(2) Adjustment knob for setting current limiting and voltage
(3) Alpha-numeric display for indicating current and voltage and setting current limiting
(4) Output, 0 ... 30 V, 1 A DC
(5) Status LED for indicating overload (OVL)

Setting of current limiting

With the output switched off, hold down the on-off button (1) until “I Limit off” is shown on the display. Use the
adjustment knob (2) to set the desired current limit. Current limiting can be adjusted between 0 (off) and 1,000 mA in
steps of 1 mA and the setting is shown on the display (3):

An “I” on the display indicates that current limiting is active. When you have finished, press the button (1) to return to
normal operating mode. Pressing the button one more time activates the output.

To turn off current limiting again, hold down button (1), again with the output disabled, until “I Limit” appears on the
display. Turn the knob (2) anti-clockwise until the display (3) shows “off”. Then press button (1) to return to normal
operating mode.

18
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5.4 AC source (4)

For experiments involving alternating current, an experiment transformer is provided. This supplies two levels of
safety low voltage. The outputs are protected by polymer positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) resettable fuses.
Overloading causes their resistance to rise to high levels, which protects the transformer from damage. In order to
reset them, the cause of the fault should be rectified and the fuses allowed to cool for a few minutes. The AC
frequency is the same as the mains frequency.

(1) Output 24 V, 0.2 A AC

(2) Output 12 V, 0.2 A AC
(3) Output 0 V

NOTE: These voltages are not stabilised. The voltage levels are defined for a nominal load and will be higher for
lower loads and open circuits.

19
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5.5 Function generator (5)

The function generator supplies to two outputs an AC voltage which can be varied in amplitude, frequency and
waveform. The outputs are electronically protected against overload and short-circuits.

1 5

2 6

3 7

4 8

(1) On-off switch and LED status indicator

(2) Adjustment knob for amplitude
(3) Button and LED indicator for selecting waveform
(4) Button for selecting a multiplier for the frequency setting (coarse adjustment) with LED indicator for
frequency setting
(5) Alpha-numeric display for indicating set voltage and frequency
(6) Frequency knob for function generators
(7) Function generators output, 0 ... 20 Vpp, 0.2 A
(8) Attenuated output (-20 dB) from function generators; particularly intended for setting very low voltages

NOTE: In the event of thermal overload or use over an extended period, the zero point of the output signal may shift.
To recalibrate the zero point, follow the procedure described below:

1. Turn off the power

2. Remove all load from the function generator outputs (unplug all the wires)
3. Hold down the on-off button for the function generator and turn on the power while doing so

20
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

5.6 Three-phase source (6)

For experiments involving three-phase current, an electronic and protected three-phase supply is provided. Its output
is fixed. The frequency of the rotating field can be set to either 50 Hz or 1 Hz. To set the three-phase source to 1 Hz,
hold down the on-off button for the three-phase supply (1) while turning on the power until the “1 Hz” indicator lights
up.

1 4

2 5

(1) On-off switch and LED status indicator

(2) LEDs to indicate set frequency
(3) Output for phase 1 of three-phase supply
(4) Output for phase 2 of three-phase supply
(5) Output for phase 3 of three-phase supply

5.7 Remote control via computer

The multi-power supply can be remotely controlled via a virtual instrument running on a computer. This requires the
software for controlling the multi-power supply to be installed first. The software is included on the CD which is
supplied with the equipment (CD3538-8M). Insert the CD into the CD/DVD drive of your computer. In case installation
of the software does not start automatically when the disc is inserted, run the file “setup.exe”, which can be found in
the CD’s root directory.

To connect the multi-power supply to the computer, it is equipped with a USB socket (type B) on the front.

Connect the multi-power supply to a free USB port on the computer via the USB cable provided. Turn on the multi-
power supply and run the program CO3538-8M on the computer. You will find the program listed under the Windows
Start menu under LN/CO3538-8M. Once it is started, the virtual instrument for controlling the multi-power supply will
open. All functions provided by the equipment are replicated in the software.

In addition, the individual sources provided by the multi-power supply can be individually activated or deactivated.
The various control panels are explained in the following section.

21
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

“Enabled Devices” control panel

This allows the individual sources provided by the multi-power supply to be individually activated or deactivated. If a
source is disabled by the software, it cannot be turned on from the equipment itself. In order to enable or disable the
sources, click the corresponding button. The green LEDs shown on the panel indicate the status of the corresponding
source (LED on means the source is enabled)

NOTE: If sources are disabled by the software, they cannot be turned on from the equipment itself. It is possible,
though, to turn on the sources via software. The status set up for the sources is stored when the program is exited.
The only way to re-enable all the sources is to turn the multi-power supply off and back on again.

“Var. DC Source” control panel

This panel allows you to control the variable DC source. The Power button turns on the output.

Using the arrows on the Voltage panel, you can set the desired output voltage for the variable DC source. The
voltage can be adjusted in a range from 0 – 30 V in steps of 0.1 V. The display at the top indicates the set voltage
and the one below it shows the voltage actually present at the output.

Using the arrows on the Current panel, you can set the desired current limit for the variable DC source. The current
limiting can be adjusted between 0 (- - - -) and 1000 mA in steps of 1 mA. The upper display shows the maximum
current configured while the one below it shows the current actually flowing from the output. If the current limiting

22
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

function is actively limiting the current, the “I>” LED will light up. If the output is overloaded even though current
limiting is not active, the “Error” will light.

“Function Generator” control panel

This panel allows you to control the function generator. The Power button turns on the output.

The arrow buttons on the Amplitude panel allow the desired output voltage for the function generator to be set. The
output voltage can be adjusted between 0 and 100% (10 V peak value) in steps of 1%.

The frequency of the output signal can be set via the Frequency panel. Use the relevant buttons to select the required
frequency range and then use the arrow buttons to set the frequency itself. The buttons at the bottom (Sine, Triangle,
Rectangle, Logic) are for setting the desired waveform.

“3 Phase Power Supply” control panel

This control panel allows the three-phase supply to be controlled. The Power button turns on the output. The
frequency can be set to either 50 Hz or 1 Hz via the buttons on the Frequency panel.

23
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

“DC Power” control panel

This panel lets you switch the upper output of the fixed DC source between 15 V and 12 V.

24
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

6 Operation
6.1 Safety

It is essential to take note of Section 2.1, “Safety information”.

25
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

7 Maintenance and cleaning

7.1 Maintenance and customer service

It is essential to take note of Section 2.1 Safety information“

The address for customer service can be obtained from your local dealer.

The address of the manufacturer is found in: Section “Name and address of manufacturer”

7.2 Spare parts

LUCAS-NÜLLE GmbH assumes no liability whatever for any damage caused by the use of spare parts or
accessories not supplied by us and any guarantee is thereby invalidated.
See the “Safety information”

Ordering spares from LUCAS-NÜLLE GmbH

When ordering spares, please provide the following data:

 Article number
 Order number/delivery date
 Name of the spare part
 Number of spare parts required

The address for our spare parts sales department can be found in
Section “Name and address of manufacturer

26
 Instruction manual
CO3538-8M

8 Disassembly and disposal

8.1 Decommissioning

The specifications under “Safety instructions” must be obeyed at all costs!

Non-compliance may result in:
Risks to life and limb of the operator or third parties,
Depreciation of the training system, of individual products or other equipment,

8.2 Disassembly and disposal

Disassembly

The equipment may only be disassembled by qualified personnel.

Disposal

Components must be disposed of according to the regulations stipulated by the responsible legal authority.

27
16

Lucas-Nülle GmbH
Siemensstraße 2 · D-50170 Kerpen-Sindorf
Telefon +49 2273 567-0 · Fax +49 2273 567-30

www.lucas-nuelle.com