FAQ: Can I connect DC power supplies in series or in parallel to obtain higher currents or voltages?

In many cases this can be done, but there are some specific cautions. The resultant voltage for series connections cannot exceed the maximum floating voltage allowed for any of the component power supplies. While this is typically ±240 VDC, some supplies are as low as ±25 VDC, and others are as high as ±550 VDC. For best results, only supplies of equal output voltage ratings should be paralleled and only supplies of equal current ratings should be placed in series.

Some Keysight DC power supplies are capable of auto-parallel operation, which increases the convenience of controlling the resultant configuration. In this case, only one unit has to be controlled (manually or by computer) to take advantage of the full power of all supplies. For more information, see the downloadable Power Products Catalog.

Applies to: All models

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