A programmable power processor for high power space applications

A Programmable Power Processor (P³) has been developed by NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center for application in future large space power systems. The P³ is capable of operation over a wide range of input voltage (26 to 375 Vdc) and output voltage (24 to 180 Vdc). The peak output power capability is 18 kW (180 V at 100 A). The output characteristics of the P³ can be programmed to any voltage and/or current level within the limits of the processor and may be controlled as a function of internal or external parameters. Seven breadboard P³s and one "flight-type" engineering model P³ have been built and tested both individually and in electrical power systems. The programmable feature allows the P^ to be used in a variety of applications by changing the output characteristics. The tests have been performed for four potential applications, a high voltage battery peak power tracking charger, a 120-V bus regulator, a 30-V bus regulator, and a peak power tracking impedance matching regulator. Test results, including efficiency at various input/output combinations, transient response, and output impedance, are presented. Packaging considerations for the 18 kW are also discussed.