FCT Systems

Constant Current Supplies for LED Modules

MCD Elektronik develops test systems for constant current supplies in LED modules

MCD Elektronik develops test solutions that reliably and repeatably test LED power supplies even under demanding HVAC/HVDC conditions. This specifically safeguards key requirements for the service life, safety, and efficiency of modern lighting systems, including applications in aviation, stadiums, railway stations, and television studios.
Challenges and Concept

Automated functional testing of constant current LED power supplies places high demands on electrical load capacity, high-voltage safety, and repeatable test conditions. The assemblies must be tested reliably under realistic operating conditions, and their function and stability at high voltages and loads must be verified.

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Blinker, Kamera, Heizung und Assistenzsysteme.

FCT Systems

Außenspiegel

Constant Current Supplies for LED Modules

Automated Functional Test System for LED Power Supplies

MCD Elektronik developed a functional test system that automatically performs electrical functional and endurance tests under realistic operating conditions. The test scope includes short-circuit and high-voltage tests, output power measurement, and analysis of shutdown behavior.

A modular adapter and changeover system enables repeatable testing of different power-supply variants with minimal conversion effort. The test solution therefore supports safety-critical aerospace and defense applications as well as demanding infrastructure and high-performance lighting applications.

Voltage Measurement
Up to 1,000 V
Load Range
kW range
Measurement Data Connection
MES system
Testing and Functional Scope

The FCT system verifies the relevant electrical functions, performance parameters, and safety features of constant current supplies for LED modules under defined test conditions:

Test fixture with transparent protective cover
Top view of the test fixture
Assembly fixture and contacting
High-voltage test station with protective hood
Overall view of the test setup
Protected test area with operator unit
Test station with closed protective cover
Side view of the test station
Protective enclosure and test fixture

Assemblies are programmed and their key electrical parameters are recorded under different operating conditions.

  • Programming the assemblies
  • Voltage measurements up to 1,000 V
  • Current measurements
  • Output power measurement

The power supplies are tested under high electrical loads, and safety-relevant operating states are verified.

  • Load tests in the kW range
  • Short-circuit and high-voltage tests
  • Analysis of shutdown behavior
  • Controlled discharge of the assemblies

Dynamic signals and defined LED functions are captured and evaluated during the test sequence.

  • Signal analysis with an integrated oscilloscope
  • Monitoring of electrical signal profiles
  • LED tests
  • Testing of defined flashing functions

Automated process steps and flexible adaptation support efficient use in production.

  • Automated label printing
  • Connection of measurement data to the MES system
  • Flexible adapter and changeover system
  • Rapid adaptation to different power-supply variants
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Flexible for Different Power-Supply Variants

The high-voltage adapter with a flexible changeover system enables repeatable accommodation of different test specimens with minimal conversion effort. This allows the FCT system to be adapted efficiently to different variants.

Test Methods and Results

For testing LED constant current supplies, the FCT system combines electrical performance and high-voltage tests with signal analysis, flexible adaptation, and monitored safety functions.

Electrical Performance and Functional Tests
Load tests in the kW range
Voltage and current measurements
Output power measurement
Analysis of shutdown behavior
High-Voltage and Signal Analysis
Short-circuit and high-voltage tests
High-voltage multiplexer and power meter
Signal analysis with an integrated oscilloscope
Frequency converter for defined test conditions
Test Software, Adaptation, and Control
TestManager CE test software
Tool monitors for electronic load, power supply, interfaces, and measuring instruments
High-voltage adaptation with flexible changeover system
MIO1616 for controlling contacting, adapter locking, and contactors
Safety and Process Stability
Independent emergency shutdown circuits
Insulation monitors for monitoring the safe operating state
Safe routing of all supply lines beneath the work surface
Defined safety conditions for operating the test station

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQS

Constant current supplies, also known as constant current power supplies, provide high-intensity light sources with sustained output and low power consumption. Applications include lighting systems for parking areas and railway stations, floodlighting for sports venues, and television studio lights.
The FCT (functional test) system is used during PCB production. It monitors electrical functions, performs high-voltage, endurance, and short-circuit tests, and checks the current behavior and power output of the supplies. Test results, voltages, currents, and test-specimen behavior are documented at the end.
Testing is performed under realistic HVAC/HVDC conditions so that the behavior of the constant current supplies can be validated under practical, sustained operation.
The system uses input voltages up to 600 V, output voltages up to 1,000 V, and power levels up to 20 kW. Special high-voltage multiplexers, insulation monitors, and HV adapters are used for this purpose.
Modular adapter and changeover systems, with their supply lines routed beneath the work surface, allow different LED power-supply variants to be tested.

KEY FACTS

Key facts at a glance

Test System
Functional test system
Handling
Semi-automatic
Concept
Standalone test station for one unit – 1 DUT per test sequence
Test Methods & Scope
Electrical: voltage, current, frequency, load

Programming: programming or parameterization of the assembly during the test sequence

Components
MCD TestManager, MCD tool monitors, MCD Controller MIO1616, HV contacting, HV adapter, multiplexer, insulation monitor

REFERENCE PROJECTS

Headset Control Units