As AI technologies and cloud computing evolve at an unprecedented pace, the power supply units (PSUs) and conversion devices that drive AI servers must deliver ever-higher levels of reliability and performance. To address this need, Chroma ATE, a leading provider of test and measurement solutions, now offers the Chroma 8000 Server Power Automated Test System. This comprehensive platform enables data centers and server manufacturers to test and validate power solutions for both high performance and long-term stability.

Tackling the Complexities of Server Power Testing

Modern server power architectures are increasingly complex, incorporating a host of components including power supply units (PSUs), battery backup units (BBUs), power shelves, and rack-level power distribution systems. These devices must simultaneously support high power output, hot-swapping functionality, and seamless PMBus communication. Drawing on decades of experience in power electronics testing, Chroma has developed a customizable test platform based on the proven Chroma 8000 system, purpose-built to address the challenges posed by server power applications. This solution offers several key advantages:

• Fully Automated Testing: Users only need to define the test conditions and specifications; the system then executes a complete test program covering input characteristics, output performance, protection mechanisms, and PMBus communication. A detailed test report is automatically generated upon completion.
• High Compatibility and Scalability: By integrating relevant equipment drivers and control commands, existing test procedures can be reused even when hardware specifications are upgraded. This minimizes maintenance and reprogramming needs, allowing for seamless interchangeability of ATE test equipment.
• High Voltage/High Power & Fast Loading Characteristics: Designed to support MW-level parallel operation with high-power sources and loads, the system's high-slew-rate DC electronic loads enable accurate simulation of rapid current draw scenarios typical of AI server workloads.
• Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Design: Equipped with instruments like the 63700 regenerative DC electronic load, the system can feed consumed power back to the grid during testing. This not only lowers testing electricity costs but also supports carbon neutrality and net-zero sustainability goals.

▲High-Power AI Rack Power Test Configuration

Standards-Based Test Coverage for Global Compliance

Chroma's server power test solution is fully aligned with industry standards such as OCP M-CRPS and ORV3, and is designed for comprehensive test item coverage including:

• Output Performance: Verifies DC output voltage, current, peak-to-peak noise, efficiency, and 160% surge load response.
• Input Characteristics: Measures inrush current, power factor, and current harmonics.
• Stability: Assesses the impact of voltage and load changes on output stability.
• Timing and Transient Response: Checks power-on/off timing and dynamic load response.
• Protection Testing: Validates over-voltage, short-circuit, and over-power protections.

The system can also perform bidirectional charge/discharge characterization for BBUs (Backup Battery Units), simulating real-world use cases to ensure the overall stability of the server's power supply.

The Chroma 8000 Automated Test System not only helps customers validate the performance and reliability of their server power supplies, it also reduces testing costs and increases efficiency through its modular design, enabling enterprises to capitalize on market opportunities in a rapidly evolving landscape.

To learn more about Chroma's server power test solutions, please visit the link below and leave your contact details. Our team will be happy to assist you.