Sorensen Programmable DC Bench Power Supply
What are Bench Power Supplies?
The term "bench power supply" is used to informally describe power supplies that are light enough to place on a bench. Benchtop DC power supplies are stand-alone units that are most often used for circuit testing and development.
What are Rack Mount Power Supplies?
The term "rack mount" refers directly to standard electronic equipment racks per the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA-310-D) standard 19-inch equipment rack. Rack mount power supplies are designed to be housed in one of these. The standard electronic equipment racks often hold several different power supplies to run multiple tests.
Sorensen bench power supply products offer both low-output ripple/noise and multiple layers of protection for your testing equipment.
You can choose between a fully featured Programmable Switching Bench DC Power Supply or a Linear Benchtop Power Supply.

HPD Series
Current: 5A - 20A
Power: 0 - 300W
Overview: 300 Watts in a quarter-rack wide chassis

XDL Series
Sorensen Digitally Controlled DC Bench Power Supply
Voltage: 35V - 56VCurrent: 1A - 5A
Power: 105W - 215W
Overview: Digitally-controlled benchtop power supply

XEL Series
Sorensen Linear Benchtop Power Supply
Voltage: 15V - 250VCurrent: 0A - 6A
Power: 75W - 180W
Overview: User-friendly 90W Linear Benchtop Supply

XHR Series
Current: 1A - 130A
Power: 0 - 1000W
Overview: 1000 watts of DC power in a compact half-rack package

XPD Series
Current: 5A - 67A
Power: 0 - 500W
Overview: 1/4 Rack Programmable DC Power Supplies

XPF Series
Sorensen Dual Isolated Outputs Benchtop Power Supply
Voltage: 60VCurrent: 10A - 20A
Power: Up to 420W per output (840W total)
Overview: Benchtop power supply featuring dual isolated outputs.

XPH Series
Sorensen Low-Cost Benchtop Power Supply
Voltage: 18V - 150VCurrent: 2A - 10A
Power: 175W - 420W
Overview: Compact, high performance low cost power supply

XPL Series
Current: 1A - 3A
Power: 30W - 125W
Overview: Economical and compact benchtop power supply

XT Series
Current: 0A - 6A
Power: 0 - 60W
Overview: Programmable linear DC power in a quarter-rack package
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a DC bench power supply and how is it used in electronics testing?
A DC bench power supply is a stand-alone device that provides a stable and adjustable DC voltage and current to power electronic circuits during development, testing, and troubleshooting. Sorensen bench power supplies are ideal for lab benches, offering precise control, low noise, and multiple safety features.
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What is the difference between constant voltage and constant current modes in a bench power supply?
In constant voltage (CV) mode, the power supply maintains a fixed voltage while the current varies based on the load. In constant current (CC) mode, the current is fixed and the voltage adjusts to maintain that current. Sorensen bench power supplies like the XDL and XEL Series support both modes, allowing precise control for sensitive electronics testing.
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What makes Sorensen bench power supplies different from standard lab power supplies?
Sorensen power supplies offer advanced features like linear regulation, PowerFlex™ technology, remote programming, and multi-output configurations. Models like the XDL Series include memory presets and rotary control, while the XPF Series supports high current outputs with dual isolated channels.
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Are Sorensen bench power supplies suitable for both lab and production environments?
Absolutely. While designed for benchtop use, many Sorensen models (like the XEL-P and XPF-DP) include remote programming interfaces and robust protection features, making them suitable for automated test equipment (ATE) and light production testing as well.
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Can I use Sorensen bench power supplies for battery charging or simulation?
Yes. Sorensen programmable DC bench supplies are well-suited for battery charging, simulation, and testing. With features like programmable voltage/current limits, remote sense, and fine control, models like the XPF60-20D and XEL-P can safely simulate battery behaviour or charge batteries under controlled conditions.
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How do I choose the right Sorensen bench power supply for my application?
Consider the following:
- Voltage and current range needed for your device
- Number of outputs (single, dual, or triple)
- Form factor and available bench space
- Interface requirements (USB, Ethernet, GPIB)
- Noise sensitivity (linear vs. switch-mode) For example, the XPL Series is ideal for compact, low-power needs, while the XPF Series is better for high-current applications.
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Which Sorensen bench power supply is best for high-current applications?
The XPF Series is ideal for high-current needs, offering up to 20A per output and a total power of 840W. Its PowerFlex™ design allows higher current at lower voltages, making it suitable for demanding test environments.
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What is the difference between linear and switch-mode bench power supplies?
Linear power supplies, like the XEL and XPL Series, provide low noise and precise output, ideal for sensitive electronics. Switch-mode supplies, like those in the XPF Series, are more efficient and compact, suitable for higher power applications with less concern for noise.
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Can Sorensen bench power supplies be used in automated test systems (ATE)?
Yes. Models like the XEL-P and XPF-DP include LXI Ethernet, USB, RS-232, and optional GPIB interfaces, making them ideal for integration into ATE systems and remote-controlled test setups.
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What are the key features of the Sorensen XDL Series bench power supply?
The XDL Series offers:
- Digitally controlled linear output
- Numeric and rotary control
- Memory for up to 30 setups (triple output)
- Over-voltage and over-current protection
- Remote sense terminals for accurate voltage delivery
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How does the XEL Series enhance voltage control and safety?
The XEL Series includes features like V-Span (voltage range limiting), S-Lock (voltage locking), and Output Enable, allowing users to safely configure voltage/current before activation. These features protect devices under test and improve precision.
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Are dual and triple output models available in Sorensen bench supplies?
Yes. The XPL, XPH, and XEL series offer dual and triple output models with independent, isolated channels. Outputs can be wired in series or parallel for higher voltage or current, and some models include fixed 3.3V/5V outputs.
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What safety features are included in Sorensen bench power supplies?
All models include short-circuit protection, reverse current protection, and over-voltage/current trips. These features ensure safe operation for both the power supply and the device under test.
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Which Sorensen model is best for compact benchtop use with limited space?
The XPL Series is designed for compact environments, offering up to 125W in a small footprint. It’s ideal for educational labs, R&D benches, and budget-conscious users needing reliable, low-noise DC power.

