Testing Chokes and Transformers with High-Current DC Bias

Considerations For Accurate High Power Inductor Testing

Inductors play an important part in all kinds of power electronics equipment. They are crucial components that must perform satisfactorily over a wide range of operating conditions, for example providing energy storage as part of a power supply smoothing filter circuit from minimum to maximum rated dc current output. It is thus important to check the dc current carrying ability of the choke at maximum current to ensure that it has been manufactured correctly, using the correct cores and wire.

For low power applications, wound components may be checked using an LCR meter only. Typical tests will be inductance (L) and quality factor (Q).

Testing Low-Power Inductors with an LCR Meter.