DC Loads

Precision Electronic DC Loads

A high power DC electronic load can sink current and absorb power from a DC power supply to ensure that it is working correctly. Often used in manufacturing and engineering to test generators or battery systems, these loads provide essential data on battery performance, battery life, and overall power system operation.

DC loads can be divided into four general categories, including DC load banks for portable power system testing, high-power DC loads for 6 kW output and up, programmable DC loads that allow the user to choose from preset configurations to run a specific test, and regenerative DC loads that have the added bonus of returning used energy back into the system.

With our variety of reliable options and affordable prices, ATEC can match you with the ideal DC load rental from leading manufacturers such as Chroma, Eagle Eye, and NH Research. Whether you need a DC load for battery testing, power supply validation, or portable power system testing, we offer solutions for a wide range of applications.

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DC Load FAQs

DC electronic loads absorb power from a DC source while applying a controlled electrical load. Most models are programmable and come with certain pre-built operating modes to simulate different conditions and measure DUT performance.

Testing batteries, power supplies, DC-DC converters, battery chargers, fuel cells, solar components, and EV power systems. Engineers use them to evaluate electrical capacity, efficiency, voltage regulation, stability, and response to changing loads; among other things.

A DC electronic load provides precise, programmable control, multiple operating modes, and detailed measurements. These are typically benchtop or laboratory devices for automated testing. Meanwhile, a DC load bank applied a more straightforward load for battery-discharge, capacity, and field-service applications.

ATEC provides both programmable loads and portable load banks for rental.

DC loads differ from DC power supplies in the sense that a load absorbs and consumes electrical energy whereas a source produces said energy. While DC power supplies convert AC power to DC to power batteries and the like, loads measure power sources under controlled and repeatable conditions.

However, many devices nowadays include both source and sink (load) functionalities. We refer to these as bidirectional power supplies.

Begin with the maximum voltage, current, and power the device under test (DUT) must absorb. The selected load must support all three requirements across the DUT's operating range. Other considerations include operating modes, transient response, measurement accuracy, channel count, communication interfaces, and whether the application requires a conventional or regenerative load.

Still need help? ATEC can help match the correct load to your test requirements. Contact us to learn more.

Renting provides access to specialized DC load equipment for development, validation, or temporary test programs without the cost and lead time of purchasing.

ATEC has in-stock inventory with flexible rental periods, assistance with selection, and fast nationwide delivery. ISO 17025 accredited calibration is available where applicable.

A technician doing work on a battery pack cycler

Battery Pack Cyclers

Need to test a higher power DC system? We've got you covered with our selection of battery pack cyclers from top manufacturers such as Chroma, NH Research, and more.

Battery Pack Testing

DC Loads

Precision Electronic DC Loads

DC Loads Categories

DC Load Banks

High-Power DC Electronic Loads

Programmable DC Electronic Loads

Regenerative DC Electronic Loads

DC Load FAQs

Battery Pack Cyclers

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