The Chroma 61800 series of 3U-high regenerative grid simulators offers three models with power ratings of 9kVA, 12kVA, and 15kVA, and includes single-phase and three-phase operation. With output voltage ranges up to 350V and 606V, each model can achieve 700V with a single-phase 3-wire setup. Users can increase output power by configuring up to three units in parallel.
The Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models are regenerative, providing a complete energysaving solution. The power generated by the DUT during the test can be efficiently fed back to the grid, rather than dissipated as heat, which protects the environment and lowers the cost of operation. With this capability, these models can be applied to renewable energy products such as PV inverters, energy storage systems (ESS), power conditioning systems (PCS), micro grids, power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL), electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), onboard chargers (OBCs) bidirectional onboard chargers (BOBCs), and more.
The 61809/61812/61815 models are wellsuited for regulatory test applications such as IEC 61000-3-2/-3-3/-3-11/-3-12 (AC voltage), IEEE 1547/IEC 62116 (green power generation), vehicle to grid (V2G), vehicle to load (V2L), vehicle to home (V2H), and energy storage systems (ESS).
By using full digital control technology, these models provide a maximum 350V output voltage and 30Hz to 100Hz output frequency. The total harmonic distortion rate is less than 0.5% at full load and 50Hz/60Hz output frequency. In addition to AC output, a DC output mode and AC plus DC output mode is included, and can be expanded to DC test and AC test with DC bias voltage. The current output capability can provide 3 times the RMS peak current, which is suitable for a DUT input inrush current test.
These models also provide precision measurements such as RMS voltage, RMS current, true power, power factor, current crest factor, and many others. By applying advanced DSP technology, they can easily simulate power line disturbance (PLD) using List, Pulse and Step modes. Additional features such as waveform synthesis enable users to program various distorted harmonic waveforms required by regulatory standards.
The intuitive 5" LCD touchscreen allows users to quickly become familiar with operating the grid simulator. Standard remote interfaces include USB and LAN, with optional GPIB and CAN ports. The unit can be controlled via computer using Chroma's Softpanel software for fast digital operation. Chroma also provides control drivers that support system integration and application development in LabVIEW.
High Power Density
The Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models are high power density products within the 61800 regenerative grid simulator series. With advanced digital control systems and next-generation thermal management technology, they achieve up to 15kVA output power in a compact 3U chassis, while supporting a wide phase voltage range up to 350VLN, single- or three-phase output modes, 100% DC output capability, and regenerative functionality. In addition, transient performance such as output voltage rise/fall time has been further enhanced, making this a breakthrough product in terms of power density - and delivering a truly next-gen power testing solution.
For system applications, the 3U form factor of the 61809/61812/61815 models occupies minimal rack space, providing users with greater flexibility and room for additional equipment. Compared to other products in the same power class, which are typically large, floor-standing units, the 61809/61812/61815 models can be conveniently placed on a benchtop, greatly improving ease of use in laboratory environments.
Intuitive Touch Screen
Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models are equipped with a 5" LCD touchscreen interface, providing users with an intuitive UI for configuring and operating the unit. The rotary knob allows users to enlarge and fine-tune parameter settings with precision. The display can also be switched to full-screen measurement display mode, making key values easy to observe during operation.
2. Screen Lock
3. Display Mode (Show Only Measurement)
4. Rotary Knob Input Mode
5. 3-Phase Unified setting
6. Total Output Power
7. Output Switch On
8. Advanced Settings
9. Output Mode Selection
10. Output Voltage & Frequency Settings
11. Measurement
12. More Measurements (Swipe Right/Left)
▲ Advanced Settings
▲ Display Mode
Universal AC Input Voltage Range
The 61809/61812/61815 models support a wide AC input voltage range and support three-phase input voltages ranging from 200V to 480V ± 10%. This makes them compatible with most three-phase systems commonly used worldwide, including 200V, 380V, 400V, and 480 grids.
The Chroma 61809/61812/61815, in addition to the AC power supply operating mode of a regenerative grid simulator, also supports an optional regenerative AC electronic load function, enabling dual functionality in a single unit. The following introduces the grid simulator and AC load functions:
Four-Quadrant AC Power Output
The Chroma Grid Simulators are fully 4-quadrant, regenerative, AC power sources designed for general-purpose electrical testing such as home appliances and industrial electronics needing a programmable AC input source. They are also ideal for simulating grid characteristics for testing PV inverters and on-line UPS systems. As shown below, the simulators can both source and sink power from the DUT seamlessly to support many different applications. In cases where the DUT supplies current back to the simulator, a detection circuit will sense the excess power and recycle it back to the grid.
Master-Slave Parallel Output Function
The 61809/61812/61815 models support multi-unit parallel output using a master-slave configuration. A single unit serves as the master, while auxiliary units serve to increase overall output capacity. This setup allows up to 20 units*1 to be connected in parallel, delivering a maximum total output power of 300kVA. Both single-phase and three-phase output modes are supported in parallel operation, enabling users to scale up power for high-power testing.
In addition, Chroma offers dedicated parallel output cabinets*2 for the 61809, 61812, and 61815 models. These are ideal for applications requiring over 100kVA of AC power, providing a complete and reliable high-power solution.
*1: Only supported on FW 1.11 or later versions.
*2: Call for detailed rack specifications.
Master-Slave Series Connection Function
The Chroma 61815/61812/61809 models support a master-slave series connection of two units to deliver specialized high-voltage output. In this setup, the system can achieve AC line-to-neutral voltage up to 700V, AC line-to-line voltage up to 1212.4V, and DC voltage up to 989.8V. In AC source mode, it supports single-phase, three-phase, and split-phase operation. In split-phase mode, Chroma's unique hardware architecture enables the system to deliver up to 105A per phase using just two connected units. This offers an ideal solution for testing high-current bidirectional onboard chargers (BOBCs) designed to the 19.2kW mainstream in the U.S., requiring 80A per phase in a single-phase three-wire configuration.
▲ Series Single-Phase Mode Architecture
▲ Series Three-Phase Mode Architecture
▲ Series Split-Phase Mode Architecture
Power Line Disturbance (PLD) Functions
The Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models include advanced Power Line Disturbance (PLD) programming functions and can simulate various types of distorted voltage waveforms and transient conditions required for product validation. PLD functions include Step, Pulse, List modes, Synthesis, Inter-harmonic, and Harmonic Measurement. The Step and Pulse functions allow users to perform single or continuous step changes of output voltage. List mode is a versatile function that allows users to compose complex waveforms of up to 100 sequences. With these programming modes, voltage waveforms required by immunity specifications such as IEC 61000-4-11/-4-13/-4-14/-4-28 can be easily achieved.
▲ Step Mode
▲ Pulse Mode
▲ List ModeThese advanced programming modes can be easily configured via the touchscreen interface. For example, in List mode, users can view and edit all sequence settings directly on a single page, and use the search function to quickly locate specific steps if an adjustment is needed. The interface also supports intuitive, smartphone-like interactions, including convenient copy-and-paste functionality to streamline the programming process.
▲ Main Page of List Mode
▲ Sequence Editing Page of List ModeThe Synthesis function allows users to create periodic harmonic voltage waveforms up to the 50th order based on a 50/60Hz fundamental frequency. The Inter-harmonic function supports frequency sweeps ranging from 0.01Hz to 2400Hz on top of the 50/60Hz fundamental frequency. This special function assists users in locating resonance points. Additionally, the Harmonic Measurement function can measure voltage or current harmonics up to the 50th order and display values such as fundamental voltage, DC component, and total harmonic distortion (THD).
▲ Synthesis Function
▲ Waveform Viewer of the Synthesis Function
▲ Inter-harmonic Function
▲ Harmonic Measurement Function
Response Speed Adjustment Function
AC testing often involves matching the characteristics of the power source to those of the DUT, which can vary significantly depending on transient or stability performance requirements. To address this, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models introduce a new Response Speed function that allows users to adjust the power output via a precision digital control algorithm that alters the system's response bandwidth. Three modes are selectable: Fast (optimized for transient performance), Medium, and Slow (optimized for stability). With a single press, users can tailor the AC source output characteristics to best match the needs of different DUTs and test scenarios.
Programmable Output Impedance Function
The 61809/61812/61815 models feature a programmable output impedance function*, allowing users to simulate a reference impedance Z by specifying virtual output resistance (R) and inductance (L) values. Based on the resulting load current, the system produces a corresponding voltage drop, making it suitable for simulating the voltage drop conditions required in flicker tests under standards such as IEC 61000-3-3 and IEC 61000-3-11.
▲ Programmable Output Impedance Settings
▲ Programmable Output Impedance Display* Only supported on FW 1.11 or later versions.
* This function only supports single unit operation (three-phase mode only), and does not support parallel operation.
Electric Vehicle Test Applications
The 61809/61812/61815 models offer complete power testing solutions for EV-related products such as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and onboard chargers (OBCs). They are compliant with EVSE testing standards including SAE J1772 (AC Level 1 and 2) as well as China's QC/T 895 standard for OBC testing. As OBC development increasingly moves toward bi-directional charge and discharge applications like V2G (Vehicle to Grid), V2L (Vehicle to Load) and V2H (Vehicle to Home), these models are ideally suited for such testing needs. Equipped with regenerative functionality, optional AC load capabilities, and advanced PLD programming features, they offer full support for bi-directional onboard charger (BOBC) test applications.
Regenerative AC Load Function
The Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models can be optionally equipped with the B618007 regenerative AC load function, enabling the system to recover energy even while operating in AC load mode and perform full 4-quadrant loading. Designed to simulate various types of real-world loads—including resistive, rectified, inductive, and capacitive ones - the function offers seven selectable load modes to cover a wide range of test applications. In addition, the system features advanced load functions like user-defined waveforms, List mode, Stand-By mode, half-cycle loading, Instant Load On, and Response Speed adjustment, providing users with a versatile toolset for dynamic and precise load simulation.
General Load
General load simulation supports Constant Current (CC), Constant Power (CP), and Constant Resistance (CR) modes. In CC and CP modes, users can set the power factor (PF) or crest factor (CF) of the load, and also use the Priority setting to define which parameter takes precedence when both are set simultaneously. In CR mode, the PF is fixed at 1, making it ideal for simulating linear impedance that responds quickly to voltage changes, such as for voltage interruption load testing.
▲ CC Mode Main Page (Three-Phase)
▲ CF/PF Parameter Priority Settings
▲ Voltage Interruption Load Test in CR Mode
Rectified Load
The CC Rectified and CS Rectified modes are designed to simulate rectified or nonlinear loads, such as traditional inverters, UPS systems, rectifier switches, lighting and audio equipment with power control, and motor-driven devices with variable frequency drives. Depending on whether CC or CS testing is required, users can additionally set the crest factor (CF) to generate sharp current peaks. Combined with high-stability slew rate control, these modes enable precise simulation of various non-sinusoidal current waveforms.
▲ CC Rectified Mode Main Page (Three-Phase)
▲ CS Rectified Mode Main Page (Single-Phase)
▲ Rectified Mode (CF = 3)
Inductive and Capacitive Load
The CC Lead/Lag and CS Lead/Lag modes allow users to simulate inductive or capacitive load characteristics by introducing a phase shift degree (Deg) between current and voltage under constant current or constant apparent power conditions. By setting the current to lead or lag the voltage, these modes accurately reproduce the behavior of real-world equipment affected by passive components.
▲ CC Lead/Lag Mode Main Page (Three-Phase)
▲ CS Lead/Lag Mode Main Page (Single-Phase)
▲ Lead/Lag Mode (Deg = 90º)
User-Defined Waveform Function
To replicate real-world load current behavior, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models feature a user-defined waveform (UDW) function* in AC load mode. This function allows users to capture current waveforms and data using an oscilloscope and store them in the instrument via the SoftPanel software’s User Waveform feature. These stored waveforms can then be reproduced during load testing, providing targeted scenario simulations for voltage-source DUTs. The UDW function is especially useful for simulating diverse load characteristics in automotive applications, such as BOBCs and inverters for V2L testing.
The UDW function supports two modes: VAL and PU, each allowing storage and use of up to 200 waveforms. In VAL mode, the 61809/61812/61815 models replicate the actual current waveform exactly as captured. In PU mode, the waveform shape is normalized and scaled according to the user-specified peak current level. Additionally, users can manually edit current waveforms in Excel by defining one complete cycle (typically 1024 points) of current data. This custom waveform can then be imported into the 61809/61812/61815 models for flexible, scenario-based load testing.
List Mode Advanced Programming Function
In AC load mode, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models support advanced programming functionality via List Mode*. Users can define up to 100 individual sequences to create a continuous, programmable load profile. Each sequence can be configured independently, with the option to control execution duration based on either a fixed time or a specified number of load cycles, allowing flexible combinations for dynamic load simulation. In List Mode, the initial sequence allows editing of the starting load phase angle, while subsequent sequences automatically follow the phase and angle of the voltage source. This design simplifies the creation of dynamic current waveforms that respond to changing load conditions in real-time.
▲ List Mode Main Page
▲ List Mode Editing Page
▲ Sequence Editing Page* Only supported on FW 1.11 or later versions.
* Not supported in Split Phase mode.
▲ List Mode Load Waveform Composed of Multiple Current Types
Half-Cycle Loading Function
The regenerative AC load option provides a half-cycle loading function via CC Rectified Mode. It can provide positive half-cycle, negative half-cycle, and 90º leading or trailing edge loading to simulate the switching characteristics of SCRs or TRIACs. Typical applications include simulating the load behavior of household appliances with temperature or lighting control, evaluating protection switches, testing induction motor characteristics, and verifying the output stability of voltage sources.
▲ Half-Cycle Function
▲ Positive Half-Cycle Loading Review
▲ 90º Leading Edge Loading Review
Stand-By Fast Response Functionality
In AC load mode, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models incorporate a new Stand-By function, enabled by advanced control algorithms and fast, precise detection circuits. This feature is designed for testing scenarios where the DUT is suddenly disconnected or the voltage source is momentarily interrupted. When a voltage drop is detected, the system rapidly switches to standby mode to prevent open-circuit conditions on the current source. Without this function, a switching load may not respond in time to the voltage drop and could generate a reverse bouncing peak voltage, triggering overvoltage protection and interrupting the test process.In addition, the new Instant Load On function (Load On IMMED.) allows the load to engage immediately as soon as the voltage source is activated, which enables load startup testing with near-zero delay. Users simply configure the load settings and activate Load On, after which the source can be interrupted or resumed at any point during the test. These features make the 61809, 61812, and 61815 ideal for AC EVSE testing, including dynamic load testing, OCP/OPP load testing, card-swipe charging tests, as well as standby startup and backup switching tests for inverters and UPS systems.
▲ Voltage Source Interruption Test
▲ Load On IMMED. Function Toggles
▲ Fast Standby Startup Loading Test
Response Speed Adjustment Function
In AC load mode, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models offer high versatility through a Response Speed adjustment feature, enabled by a precision digital control algorithm that arranges the system response bandwidth. Users can simply switch between different load response types with a single setting, adapting the load behavior to suit a wide range of AC voltage-source DUTs. When testing voltage sources with high harmonic content, the Slow mode (designed for distorted voltage sources) delivers stable load performance and is well-suited for early development stages, when the voltage waveform may not yet meet standard sinewave criteria. Conversely, during later stages of voltage source development where precise current waveform control is essential, Fast mode enables highly accurate current loading. This is ideal for applications such as rectified load simulation, phase-leading/lagging loads, half-cycle loading, user-defined waveform loading, and zero-delay startup loading.
Master-Slave Parallel Function
In AC load mode, the Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models support a master-slave parallel configuration of up to ten units, with one master controlling the other auxiliary units. This setup enables a maximum total AC load capacity of 150 kVA in three-phase mode for high-power testing needs. In addition, the AC load mode supports series connection* of two standalone units to enable split phase load applications. This configuration is designed for single-phase-three-wire (split phase) system and can deliver up to 105A of load current per line, making it ideal for testing 19.2kW on-board chargers with 80A per line in a split phase configuration.
* Only supported on FW 1.11 or later versions.
AC BOBC Test Solution For EU/US Markets
Current mainstream AC BOBC products are designed for different power specifications across regions. In Europe, the standard is 22kW at 380V line voltage with three-phase distribution, while in the U.S. it is 19.2kW at 240V / 120V with split-phase distribution. To address these complex power specifications and wiring configurations, two Chroma 61815 units can be paired with a dedicated Wire Connection Box*. Through the master unit interface, users can automatically switch between different equipment modes and wiring setups such as AC source/load modes, series/parallel, and output modes including single-phase, three-phase, and split-phase.
For split-phase testing of 19.2kW BOBCs in a split-phase setup, each line may require up to 80A of current. For AC power products under 20kVA on the market, it is necessary to connect three units in parallel and take two phases of them to implement this high current requirement. In contrast, the Chroma 61815 can achieve up to 105A per line using just two units in series through its unique split-phase architecture, supporting both AC source and AC load modes for a more economical BOBC test solution.
For V2G, V2H, or V2L test applications, the Chroma 61815 supports both AC source and AC load modes, and utilizes its regenerative functionality to return energy from the BOBC power testing without impacting the facility's power grid. This energy recovery capability can reduce test power consumption by up to 89%, significantly improving overall efficiency, minimizing energy waste, and lowering operating costs, resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective AC test solution for BOBC systems.
*The dedicated wire connection box for the 61815 (ITM-0354721) is available as an optional accessory. Please contact your Chroma representative for details.
