Power Supplies Under Sags and Distorted AC Voltage

This paper describes the performance of switched mode computer power supplies under voltage sags and harmonic distortions. The tests were carried out in a controlled lab environment where the basic parameters were recorded to allow a detailed analysis of the condition of the power supply under the different voltage excitations. The results show the impact of the waveforms that may affect the performance of the supplied load, but did not cause any observable damage on the power supply. With the massive use of power electronic converters for generation and load supply it is expected that higher levels of voltage distortions be present on the electric distribution system. The experiments show the need for more investigation with different types and topologies of power supplies for a comprehensive assessment of their performance.