A bipolar amplifier is a power amplifier capable of outputting both positive and negative voltages. Matsusada Precision defines these units as four-quadrant power amplifiers, meaning they can operate across all four voltage-current quadrants.
The Four Quadrants of Operation:
Quadrant I: Positive voltage (+), Positive current (+) [Source Mode]
Quadrant II: Positive voltage (+), Negative current (-) [Sink Mode/Load]
Quadrant III: Negative voltage (-), Negative current (-) [Source Mode]
Quadrant IV: Negative voltage (-), Positive current (+) [Sink Mode/Load]
Because they operate in all four areas, they are often referred to as "four-quadrant power supplies." Unlike standard DC power supplies, bipolar amplifiers function as both a power source and an electronic load.
While classified as DC power supplies, these amplifiers offer significantly wider bandwidth and higher speed operation. They amplify an input signal from an external source (such as a function generator) based on the gain settings of the main unit. They are ideal for evaluating and controlling a wide range of devices requiring dynamic voltage and current response.
Matsusada Precision offers various power supplies and amplifiers capable of positive and negative polarity output, categorized as follows:
Bipolar Power Supply
A four-quadrant power supply featuring a built-in function generator (signal source).
High-Voltage Amplifier / High-Speed High-Voltage Amplifier
A four-quadrant power supply utilizing an external signal source, designed specifically for high-voltage output.
Reversible DC Power Supply
A power supply that switches output polarity using an internal relay or switch mechanism. Unlike bipolar amplifiers that cross zero linearly, these units switch between positive and negative output modes. The [EJ series] and [CZE series] fall into this category.
Two-channel Output Power Supply
Power supplies capable of outputting positive and negative voltages simultaneously via independent channels. These are commonly used in applications such as high-voltage power supplies for electrostatic chucks.
