Measuring Transformer Distributed Capacitance

Focus:

Distributed capacitance, Cd, is one of parameters need to properly model transformer operation. Cd is typically measured indirectly by measuring the transformer's self-resonant frequency (SRF) and then using SRF and inductance to calculate Cd. Although this approach normally produces accurate results, there are three cases where it may not: 1) when core permeability varies with drive level 2) when core permeability varies with frequency and 3) when the maximum impedance point and SRF are different. This application note discusses the sources of Cd, how it is modeled, and how the three error factors effect Cd measurements and calculations. The application note offers guidelines for obtaining accurate values of Cd based on core types and transformer construction.

What you’ll learn:

• How to accurately measure the distributed capacitance (Cd) of a transformer

Notes:

No publication date specified. 10/27/09 is the date the entry for this application note was entered in this database.

View the Source

Author & Publication:

Kirby Creel, Engineering Manager, Datatronics, Vendor website, Oct 27 2009

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