PSIM User Manual

Users Guide
Powersim Inc.
Chapter : -7
PSIM Users Guide
Version 10.0
Release 3
April 2015
Copyright 2001-2015 Powersim Inc.

All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be photocopied or reproduced in any form or by any means without the written
permission of Powersim Inc.
Disclaimer
Powersim Inc. (Powersim) makes no representation or warranty with respect to the adequacy or accuracy of this
documentation or the software which it describes. In no event will Powersim or its direct or indirect suppliers be liable for any
damages whatsoever including, but not limited to, direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages of any character
including, without limitation, loss of business profits, data, business information, or any and all other commercial damages or
losses, or for any damages in excess of the list price for the licence to the software and documentation.
Powersim Inc.
email: info@powersimtech.com
http://www.powersimtech.com
-6 Chapter :
Contents
1 General Information
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Circuit Structure 3
1.3 Software/Hardware Requirement 3
1.4 Installing the Program 3
1.5 Simulating a Circuit 4
1.6 Simulation Control 4
1.7 Component Parameter Specification and Format 5
2 Circuit Schematic Design

2.1 PSIM Environment 7
2.2 Creating a Circuit 8
2.3 File Menu 9
2.4 Edit Menu 10
2.5 View Menu 11
2.6 Design Suites Menu 12
2.7 Subcircuit Menu 12
2.7.1 Creating Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit 14
2.7.2 Creating Subcircuit - Inside the Subcircuit 14
2.7.3 Connecting Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit 15
2.7.4 Other Features of the Subcircuit 15
2.7.4.1 Passing Variables from the Main Circuit to Subcircuit 15
2.7.4.2 Customizing the Subcircuit Image 16
2.7.4.3 Including Subcircuits in the PSIM Element List 17
2.8 Elements Menu 17
2.9 Running Simulation 17
2.9.1 Simulate Menu 17
2.9.2 Simulation Command-Line 20
2.10 Options Menu 20
2.10.1 Setting Options 21
2.10.2 Set Path Options 23
2.10.3 Customizing Toolbars and Keyboards 23
2.11 Utilities Menu 24
2.12 Managing the PSIM Library 25
2.12.1 Creating a Secondary Image 26
2.12.2 Adding a New Subcircuit Element into the Library 27
2.12.3 Adding a New DLL Element into the Library 28
2.13 Creating a Symbol Library 29
3 Waveform Processing in SimView

3.1 File Menu 33
3.2 Edit Menu 34
3.3 Axis Menu 34
3.4 Screen Menu 35
3.5 Measure Menu 36
3.6 Analysis Menu 36
Chapter : -5i
3.7 View Menu 37
3.8 Option Menu 38
3.9 Label Menu 38
3.10 Exporting Data 39
4 Power Circuit Components

4.1 Resistor-Inductor-Capacitor Branches 41
4.1.1 Individual Resistor 41
4.1.2 Individual Inductor 42
4.1.3 Individual and Electrolytic Capacitors 42
4.1.4 Combined R-L-C Branch 43
4.1.5 Three-Phase R, L, C, and Combination Branches 44
4.1.6 3-Phase AC Cable 44
4.1.7 Rheostat 45
4.1.8 Saturable Inductor 45
4.1.9 Coupled Inductors 46
4.1.10 Nonlinear Elements 47
4.2 Switching Devices 48
4.2.1 Diode 49
4.2.2 LED 50
4.2.3 Zener Diode and DIAC 51
4.2.4 Thyristor and TRIAC 52
4.2.5 Transistor 53
4.2.6 MOSFET 54
4.2.7 IGBT 55
4.2.8 GTO 56
4.2.9 Bi-Directional Switches 56
4.2.10 Linear Switches 57
4.2.11 Switch Gating Block 59
4.2.12 Single-Phase Switch Modules 60
4.2.13 Three-Phase Switch Modules 61
4.3 Transformers 63
4.3.1 Ideal Transformer 63
4.3.2 Single-Phase Transformers 64
4.3.3 Three-Phase Transformers 65
4.3.4 Three-Phase Transformer with Saturation 68
4.4 Magnetic Elements 69
4.4.1 Winding 69
4.4.2 Leakage Flux Path 70
4.4.3 Air Gap 70
4.4.4 Linear Core 71
4.4.5 Saturable Core 72
4.5 Other Elements 73
4.5.1 Operational Amplifier 73
4.5.1.1 Ideal Operational Amplifier 73
4.5.1.2 Non-Ideal Operational Amplifier 74
4.5.2 TL431 Shunt Regulator 75
4.5.3 Opto-Coupler 75
4.5.4 dv/dt Block 76
4.5.5 Relays 77
4.6 Motor Drive Module 77
ii
-4 Chapter :
4.6.1 Reference Direction of Mechanical Systems 77
4.6.2 DC Machine 84
4.6.3 Induction Machines 80
4.6.4 Induction Machine with Saturation 82
4.6.5 DC Machine 84
4.6.6 Synchronous Machine with External Excitation 89
4.6.7 Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine 92
4.6.8 Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine with Saturation 94
4.6.9 Switched Reluctance Machine 97
4.6.10 Nonlinear Switched Reluctance Machine 99
4.6.11 Motor Control Blocks 100
4.6.11.1 Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere Control 100
4.6.11.2 Field Weakening Control 101
4.7 MagCoupler Module 104
4.7.1 MagCoupler-DL Block 104
4.7.2 MagCoupler Block 105
4.8 MagCoupler-RT Module 108
4.9 Mechanical Elements and Sensors 112
4.9.1 Mechanical Elements and Sensors 112
4.9.1.1 Constant-Torque Load 112
4.9.1.2 Constant-Power Load 112
4.9.1.3 Constant-Speed Load 113
4.9.1.4 General-Type Load 113
4.9.1.5 Externally-Controlled Load 114
4.9.2 Gear Box 114
4.9.3 Mechanical Coupling Block 115
4.9.4 Mechanical-Electrical Interface Block 115
4.9.5 Speed/Torque Sensors 116
4.9.6 Position Sensors 118
4.9.6.1 Absolute Encoder 118
4.9.6.2 Incremental Encoder 119
4.9.6.3 Resolver 119
4.9.6.4 Hall Effect Sensor 120
4.10 Thermal Module 120
4.10.1 Diode Thermal Model 121
4.10.1.1 Diode Device in Database 121
4.10.1.2 Diode Loss Calculation 122
4.10.2 IGBT Thermal Model 123
4.10.2.1 IGBT Device in Database 123
4.10.2.2 IGBT Loss Calculation 125
4.10.3 MOSFET Thermal Model 125
4.10.3.1 MOSFET Device in Database 127
4.10.3.2 MOSFET Loss Calculation 129
4.10.4 Inductor Thermal Model 131
4.10.4.1 Inductor in Database 131
4.10.4.2 Inductor Loss Calculation 131
4.10.5 Device Database Editor 132
4.10.6 Adding a Switching Device to Database 134
4.11 Renewable Energy Module 138
4.11.1 Solar Modules 138
4.11.1.1 Solar Module - Functional Model 138
4.11.1.2 Solar Module - Physical Model 139
4.11.1.3 Solar Module - cSi and Thin-File Models 141
4.11.2 Wind Turbine 143
4.11.3 Lithium-Ion Battery Model 145
Chapter : iii
-3
4.11.4 Ultracapacitor Model 146
5 Control Circuit Components

5.1 Transfer Function Blocks 149
5.1.1 Proportional Controller 150
5.1.2 Integrator 150
5.1.3 Differentiator 152
5.1.4 Proportional-Integral Controller 152
5.1.5 Single-Pole Controller 153
5.1.6 Modified PI Controller 153
5.1.7 Type-3 Controller 154
5.1.8 Built-in Filter Blocks 155
5.2 Computational Function Blocks 156
5.2.1 Summer 156
5.2.2 Multiplier and Divider 156
5.2.3 Square-Root Block 157
5.2.4 Exponential/Power/Logarithmic Function Blocks 157
5.2.5 Root-Mean-Square Block 157
5.2.6 Absolute and Sign Function Blocks 158
5.2.7 Trigonometric Functions 158
5.2.8 Fast Fourier Transform Block 158
5.2.9 Maximum/Minimum Function Block 159
5.3 Other Function Blocks 160
5.3.1 Comparator 160
5.3.2 Limiters 160
5.3.3 Gradient (dv/dt) Limiter 160
5.3.4 Trapezoidal and Square Blocks 161
5.3.5 Sampling/Hold Block 161
5.3.6 Round-Off Block 162
5.3.7 Time Delay Blocks 162
5.3.8 Multiplexer 163
5.3.9 THD Block 164
5.3.10 Space Vector PWM 165
5.4 Logic Components 166
5.4.1 Logic Gates 166
5.4.2 Set-Reset Flip-Flop 166
5.4.3 J-K Flip-Flops 167
5.4.4 D Flip-Flops 167
5.4.5 Monostable Multivibrator 168
5.4.6 Pulse Width Counter 168
5.4.7 Up/Down Counter 168
5.4.8 A/D and D/A Converters 169
5.5 Digital Control Module 170
5.5.1 Zero-Order Hold 170
5.5.2 z-Domain Transfer Function Block 171
5.5.2.1 Integrator 172
5.5.2.2 Differentiator 173
5.5.2.3 Digital PI Controller 173
5.5.2.4 Digital Filters 174
5.5.3 Unit Delay 176
5.5.4 Quantization Blocks 177
5.5.5 Circular Buffers 179
iv
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5.5.6 Convolution Block 180
5.5.7 Memory Read Block 180
5.5.8 Data Array 181
5.5.9 Stack 181
5.5.10 Multi-Rate Sampling System 182
5.6 SimCoupler Module 182
5.6.1 Set-up in PSIM and Simulink 182
5.6.2 Solver Type and Time Step Selection in Simulink 184
5.7 CosiMate Links 186
5.8 Design Suite Blocks 186
5.8.1 Torque Control (PMSM) 186
5.8.2 Dynamic Torque Limit Control (PMSM) 187
5.8.3 Dynamic Torque Limit Control (Nonlinear PMSM) 188
5.8.4 Voltage Control (PMSM) 189
5.8.5 DC-DC Charging Control 190
5.8.6 DC-DC Discharging Control 191
5.8.7 DC-DC Regeneration Control 192
6 Other Components
6.1 Switch Controllers 193
6.1.1 On-Off Switch Controller 193
6.1.2 Alpha Controller 193
6.1.3 PWM Lookup Table Controller 194
6.2 Sensors 196
6.3 Probes, Meters, and Scopes
6.3.1 Probes and Meters 196
6.3.2 Voltage/Current Scopes 198
6.4 Function Blocks 200
6.4.1 Control-Power Interface Block 200
6.4.2 Initial Values 213
6.4.2.1 abc-dqo Transformation 201
6.4.2.2 abc-/ Transformation 202
6.4.2.3 /-to-dq Transformation 203
6.4.2.4 Cartesian-Polar Transformation 204
6.4.3 Math Function Blocks 204
6.4.4 Lookup Tables 205
6.4.5 C Block 207
6.4.6 Simplified C Block 208
6.4.7 External DLL Blocks 209
6.4.8 Embedded Software Block 210
6.5 IC Models 211
6.5.1 PWM IC 211
6.5.2 Driver IC 212
6.5.3 555 Timer 213
6.6 Initial Values 213
6.7 AC Analysis 215
6.7.1 AC Sweep 215
6.7.2 AC Sweep Multi-Sine 218
6.8 Parameter Sweep 219
7 Sources
Chapter : -1v
7.1 Constant 221
7.2 Time 221
7.3 Ground 221
7.4 Voltage and Current Sources 222
7.4.1 DC Source 222
7.4.2 Sinusoidal Source 222
7.4.3 Square-Wave Source 223
7.4.4 Triangular/Sawtooth Sources 224
7.4.5 Step Sources 225
7.4.6 Piecewise Linear Source 225
7.4.7 Random Source 226
7.4.8 Math Function Source 227
7.4.9 Voltage/Current-Controlled Sources 227
7.4.10 Nonlinear Voltage-Controlled Sources 229
8 Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues

8.1 Simulation Issues 231
8.1.1 Time Step Selection 231
8.1.2 Propagation Delays in Logic Circuits 231
8.1.3 Interface Between Power and Control Circuits 231
8.1.4 FFT Analysis 232
8.2 Error/Warning Messages 232
8.3 Debugging 233
Index 235
vi
0 Chapter :
1
General Information
1.1 Introduction
PSIM1 is a simulation software specifically designed for power electronics, motor drives, and power conversion
systems. With fast simulation speed and friendly user interface, PSIM provides a powerful simulation
environment to meed your simulation and development needs.
PSIM includes the basic package, as well as the following add-on options:
Motor Drive Module: Built-in electric machine models and mechanical load models for motor drive
system studies.
Digital Control Module: Discrete library elements such as zero-order hold, z-domain transfer function
blocks, quantization blocks, digital filters, for digital control system analysis.
SimCoupler Module: Interface between PSIM and Matlab/Simulink2 for co-simulation.
Thermal Module: Library elements and functions calculate semiconductor device losses and
inductor losses.
Renewable Energy Module: Library elements, such as solar module, wind turbine, battery, and
ultracapacitor models, for renewable energy applications.
SimCoder3 Module: Function for automatic code generation capability.
F2833x Target: Library elements for automatic code generation for TI F2833x series DSP.
F2803x Target: Library elements for automatic code generation for TI F2803x series DSP.
MagCoupler Module: Interface between PSIM and the electromagnetic field analysis software
JMAG4 for co-simulation.
MagCoupler-RT Module: Link between PSIM and JMAG-RT4 data files.
ModCoupler5 Modules: Interface between PSIM and ModelSim6 for co-simulation. There are two
versions of the interface: ModCoupler-VHDL that supports VHDL code, and
ModCoupler-Verilog that supports Verilog code.
Motor Control Design Suite: Pre-built templates for induction motor and linear/nonlinear PMSM drives.
HEV Design Suite: Pre-built templates for hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrain system
design.
In addition, a link is provided between PSIM and CosiMate7, a co-simulation framework that supports various
software such as Matlab/Simulink, ModelSim, Saber (from Synopsys), Easy5 and Adams (from MSC
Software), Inventor (from Autodesk), AMESim (from LMS), GT-Power (from Gamma Technologies), etc.
Through CosiMate, PSIM can perform co-simulation with these software. For more information on CosiMate,
please visit www.chiastek.com.
Also, PSIM links with the software SmartCtrl5 for control loop design. SmartCtrl is designed specifically for
power converter applications. For more information on SmartCtrl, please refer to SmartCtrl Users Guide.
1. PSIM and SIMVIEW are registered trademarks of, and are copyright by, Powersim Inc., 2001-2015
2. Matlab and Simulink are registered trademarks of the MathWorks, Inc.
3. SimCoder is a trademark of Powersim Inc., and is copyright by Powersim Inc., 2008-2015
4. JMAG and JMAG-RT are copyright by JSOL Corporation, 1997-2015
5. ModCoupler and SmartCtrl are copyright by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 2011-2015
6. ModelSim is a registered trademark of Mentor Graphics Co.
7. CosiMate is copyright by ChiasTek Inc., 2010-2015
Chapter 1: General Information 1

With these product lineup, Powersim provides a complete platform from design to simulation, to hardware
implementation. The overall environment is shown in the figure below.
Hardware
Design Simulation Implementation
F2833x &
F2803x
PSIM Targets
SmartCtrl Thermal Auto Code DSP
Analysis Power Generation Hardware
Thermal Electronics SimCoder
Motor Control
Design Suite
Solar/Wind ModCoupler
Power ModelSim
HEV Design Suite Control Renewable Energy Motor Drives
Digital Control Motor Drive
FPGA
SimCoupler MagCoupler/ DLL
MagCoupler-RT
Matlab/ 3rd-party
Simulink JMAG CosiMate
Software
Link to Saber, AMESim, etc.
The PSIM simulation environment consists of the circuit schematic program PSIM, the simulator engine, and
the waveform processing program SIMVIEW1. The simulation process is illustrated as follows.
PSIM Schematic Circuit Schematic Editor (input: *.psimsch)
PSIM Simulator PSIM Simulator (output: *.smv or *.txt)
SIMVIEW Waveform Processor (input: *.smv or *.txt)
This manual covers both PSIM and all add-on Modules except SimCoder Module, ModCoupler Modules, HEV
Design Suite, and Motor Control Design Suite. The document SimCoder User Manual describes the use of the
SimCoder Module and associated hardware targets. The document ModCoupler User Manual describes the use
of the ModCoupler Module. The document "Tutorial - HEV Design Suite.pdf" describes the use of the HEV
Design Suite. The document "Tutorial - Motor Control Design Suite.pdf" describes the use of the Motor Control
Design Suite.
The organization of this manual is as follows:
Chapter 1: PSIM circuit structure, software/hardware requirement, and parameter specification

format.
Chapter 2: PSIM environment and how to build a PSIM schematic.
Chapter 3: Simulation result display and analysis with Simview.
Chapter 4 through 7: Components in PSIM element library.
Chapter 8: Error/warning messages
2 Chapter 1: General Information

1.2 Circuit Structure
A circuit is represented in PSIM in four blocks: power circuit, control circuit, sensors, and switch controllers.
The figure below shows the relationship between these blocks.
Power Circuit
Switch
Sensors
Controllers
Control Circuit
The power circuit consists of switching devices, RLC branches, transformers, and coupled inductors. The
control circuit is represented in block diagram. Components in s-domain and z-domain, logic components (such
as logic gates and flip flops), and nonlinear components (such as multipliers and dividers) are used in the
control circuit. Sensors are used to measure power circuit quantities and pass them to the control circuit. Gating
signals are then generated from the control circuit and sent back to the power circuit through switch controllers
to control switches.
1.3 Software/Hardware Requirement

PSIM runs in Microsoft Windows 7/8 on personal computers. The minimum RAM memory requirement is
1GB.
1.4 Installing the Program

A quick installation guide is provided in the flier PSIM - Quick Guide and on the CD-ROM.
Some of the files in the PSIM directory are:
PSIM.exe PSIM circuit schematic editor

PcdEditor.exe Device database editor
SetSimPath.exe Program to set up the SimCoupler Module
File extensions used in PSIM are:
*.psimsch PSIM schematic file

*.psimpjt PSIM project file
*.lib PSIM library file
*.fra PSIM ac analysis output file (text)
*.dev Device database file
*.txt Simulation output file in text format
*.smv Simulation output file in binary format

1.5 Simulating a Circuit
To simulate the buck converter circuit buck.psimsch in "examples\dc-dc":
- Start PSIM. From the File menu, choose Open to load the file buck.psimsch.
- From the Simulate menu, choose Run PSIM to start the simulation. Simulation results will be saved
to File buck.smv.
- By default, Auto-run SIMVIEW is selected in the Options menu. SIMVIEW will be launched
automatically. In SIMVIEW, select curves for display. If this option is not selected, from the Simulate
menu, choose Run SIMVIEW to start SIMVIEW.
1.6 Simulation Control

The Simulation Control element defines parameters and settings related to simulation.
To place the Simulation Control in the schematic, go to the Simulate menu, and select Simulation Control.
Image:
There are three tabs in the Simulation Control dialog:

Parameters: Define essential parameters for transient simulation.
SimCoder: Define the hardware for SimCoder simulation and automatic code generation. For more
detailed information, please refer to SimCoder Users Manual.
Color: Define the color of the Simulation Control image. The default color is blue.
Parameters Tab:
Time Step Simulation time step, in sec.

Total Time Total simulation time, in sec.
Free Run When the Free Run checkbox is not checked, the simulation will run up to the Total Time
checkbox and then stop. But when it is checked, the simulation will run in the free-run mode and it
will keep on running until manually stopped.
In the free-run mode, voltage/current scopes can be used to monitor and display voltages
and currents in the middle of the simulation.
Print Time Time from which simulation results are saved to the output file. No output is saved
before this time.
Print Step Print step. If it is set to 1, for example, every data point will be saved to the output file. If
it is set to 10, only one out of 10 data points will be saved. This helps to reduce the
output file size.
Load Flag Flag for the LOAD function. If the flag is 1, the previous simulation values (saved by
setting the Save Flag) will be loaded from a file (with the .ssf extension) as the initial
conditions.
Save Flag Flag for the SAVE function. If the flag is 1, values at the end of the current simulation
will be saved to a file with the .ssf extension.
In PSIM, the simulation time step is fixed throughout the simulation. In order to ensure accurate simulation
results, the time step must be chosen properly. The factors that limit the time step in a circuit include the
switching period, widths of pulses or waveforms, and intervals of transients. It is recommended that the time
step should be at least one magnitude smaller than the smallest of the above.
Also, an interpolation technique is implemented which will calculate the switching instants more accurately.
With this technique, the error due to the misalignment of switching instants and discrete simulation points is
significantly reduced. It is possible to simulate with a large time step while still maintaining accurate results.

The allowable maximum time step is automatically calculated in PSIM. It is compared with the time step set by
the user, and the smaller value of the two will be used in the simulation.
With the SAVE and LOAD functions, the circuit voltages, currents and other quantities can be saved at the end
of a simulation session, and loaded back as the initial conditions for the next simulation session. This provides
the flexibility of running a long simulation in several shorter stages with different time steps and parameters.
Components values and parameters of the circuit can be changed from one simulation session to the other. The
circuit topology, however, must remain the same.
SimCoder Tab
Hardware Target The hardware target can be one of the following:

None: No hardware target in the circuit;
F2833x: TI F2833x Hardware Target;
F2803x: TI F2803x Hardware Target;
PE-Pro/F28335: PE-Pro/F28335 Hardware Target;
PE_Expert3: PE-Expert3 Hardware Target;
Memory Map Specify the memory map for compiler. For F2833x and F2803x hardware target:
Options RAM Debug;
RAM Release;
Flash Release; and
Flash RAM Release.
For PE_Exper3 hardware target:
PE-View9
PE-View8
CPU Version Specify the CPU version.
For F2833x: F28335, F28334, and F28332.
For F2803x: F28035, F28034, F28033, F28032, F28031, and F28030
Default Data This parameter is for fixed-point DSPs, such as F2803x. The default data type options
Type are: Integer, IQ0, IQ1, ... IQ30.
If the box for Check Fixed-Point Range is checked, the SimCoder will check all the
variables against the range and display the result.
DMC Library SimCoder has function blocks of all the functions in TIs DMC library for the following
Version DMC versions: 4.0, 4.1, and 4.2.
Comments Comments can be entered and these comments will be inserted at the beginning of the
automatically generated code.
1.7 Component Parameter Specification and Format

The parameter dialog window of each component in PSIM has three tabs: Parameters, Other Info, and Color,
as shown below.
The parameters in the Parameters tab are used in the simulation. The information in the Other Info tab, on the
other hand, is not used in the simulation. It is for reporting purposes only and will appear in the parts list in
View >> Element List in PSIM. Information such as device rating, manufacturer, and part number can be
stored under the Other Info tab.

The component color can be set in the Color tab.
Parameters under the Parameters tab can be a numerical value or a mathematical expression. A resistance, for
example, can be specified in one of the following ways:
12.5
12.5k
12.5Ohm
12.5kOhm
25./2.Ohm
R1+R2
R1*0.5+(Vo+0.7)/Io
where R1, R2, Vo, and Io are symbols defined either in a parameter file (see Section 4.1), or in a main circuit if
this resistor is in a subcircuit (see Section 6.3.4.1).
Power-of-ten suffix letters are allowed in PSIM. The following suffix letters are supported:
G 109
M 106
k or K 103
m 10-3
u 10-6
n 10-9
p 10-12
A mathematical expression can contain brackets and is not case sensitive. The following mathematical
functions are allowed:
+ addition
- subtraction
* multiplication
/ division
^ to the power of [Example: 2^3 = 2*2*2]
SQRT square-root function
SIN sine function
COS cosine function
ASIN sine inverse function
ACOS cosine inverse function
TAN tangent function
ATAN inverse tangent function
ATAN2 inverse tangent function [- <= atan2(y,x) <= ]
SINH hyperbolic sine function
COSH hyperbolic cosine function
EXP exponential (base e) [Example: EXP(x) = ex]
LOG logarithmic function (base e) [Example: LOG(x) = ln (x)]
LOG10 logarithmic function (base 10)
ABS absolute function
SIGN sign function [Example: SIGN(1.2) = 1; SIGN(-1.2)=-1]

2
Circuit Schematic Design
PSIMs schematic program provides interactive and user-friendly interface for circuit schematic entry and
editing. The PSIM user interface consists of an integrated set of windows, tools, menus, toolbars, and other
elements that allow you to create, simulate, and refine your circuits in one places.
2.1 PSIM Environment

The following figure shows typical screen display of PSIM environment. In the figure, to illustrate as examples,
two PSIM circuit files are open: a boost power factor correction circuit and a dc-dc buck converter circuit.
By default, the menu bar and the standard toolbar appear on top of the window, while the frequently used
element bar appears at the bottom, and the Project View is on the left hand side.
The Project View window provides an organized tree view of users projects and their related files, as well as
the simulation result graphs. Each PSIM circuit is treated as a project. The following content are displayed in
stacking tiers in the project view:
Project Name: Usually this is the same as the top level PSIM circuit file name.
Documents: Any files related to the PSIM circuit: descriptive, parameter, lookup table, etc.
Schematic: The PSIM schematic files, top level and subcircuits.
Graphs: All probes in the PSIM schematic are included in the graph list.
On the right hand side is the Design window. This is a graphic editor where users can build and editor their
simulation circuit schematics. User may arrange schematics in the Design window in tiles (as shown above), or
in tabs (as shown below).
Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 7

In PSIM, all the elements are stored under the Elements menu. The elements are divided into four groups:
Power: Power circuit elements such as R, L, C branches, switching devices, transformers, motor
drive module.
Control: Control elements, such as computational functions, logic, and digital control module.
Other: Switch controllers, sensors, probes, interface elements, and elements that are common to
both power and control), and
Sources: Voltage and current sources.
Event Control Elements for event control. These elements are part of SimCoder.
SimCoder Elements for automatic code generation and hardware targets, such as F2833x and F2803x
Targets.
2.2 Creating a Circuit

The basic and most commonly used functions provided for circuit creation are:
Get Element There are several ways to get an element from the element library. One is to use the pull-
down menu. Go to the Elements menu, and go into the submenu and highlight the
element to be selected.
The most often used elements can be selected the Element Toolbar. It is located at the
bottom of the PSIM screen by default.
Another way is to use the Library Browser, as shown below. The Library Browser
provides a convenient way of navigating through the library. To launch the Library
Browser, go to View >> Library Browser.
8 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

Element Menu
Library Browser Element Toolbar
Place Once an element is selected from the menu, the image of the element will appear on the
screen and move with the mouse. Click the left button of the mouse to place the element at
desired location on schematic.
Select Element(s) To select an existing element on a schematic, click on the element. A rectangle will appear
around the element. To select a section of a circuit, keep the left button of a mouse
pressed and drag the mouse until the rectangle covers the selected area.
Rotate Before the element is placed, right click to rotate the element. After an element is
selected, select Edit >> Rotate to rotate the element.
Wire To connect a wire between two nodes, select Edit >> Wire. The image of a pen will
appear on the screen. To draw a wire, keep the left button of the mouse pressed and drag
the mouse. A wire always starts from and end at a grid intersection.
For easy inspection, a floating node is displayed as a circle, and a junction node is
displayed as a solid dot.
Label If two or more nodes are connected to the same label, they are connected. It is equivalent
as though they were connected by wire. Using labels will reduce the cross-wiring and
improve the schematic layout.
The text of a label can be moved. To select the text, left click on the label, then press the
Tab key.
Assign To assign the parameters of an element, double click on the element. A dialog box will
appear. Specify the values and hit the <Return> key or click on OK.
Move To move an element or a circuit block, select the element/circuit block and drag the mouse
while keeping the left button pressed.
Pan Schematic To scroll schematic, right click and drag the mouse.
2.3 File Menu

The following functions are provided in the File menu for various file operations:
New To create a new schematic file.
Open To open an existing schematic file.
New Project To create a new PSIM project

Open Project To open an existing PSIM project
Save Project To save current PSIM project
Close To close the current schematic file.
Close All To close all schematic files.
Save To save the current schematic file.
Save As... To save the current schematic file to a different name.
Save All To save all schematic files.
Save with Password To save a schematic file so that it is protected with a password. When a file is password
protected, it can still be used in the simulation, but one needs to enter the correct password
in order to see the schematic. The password protection is used in situations where the
person who created the file needs to share it with someone else, but does not wish to
reveal the details of the schematic.
Save in Package File To save a schematic file and all associated files to one single package file. This is
especially useful if the main circuit calls multiple subcircuits, and one needs to send the
files to someone else. Rather than finding and collecting all the subcircuit files, one can
just create the package file and send out the single package file.
Save as Older Versions To save a file in the previous version format. Note that if the file uses elements that are
unique in the current version, these elements will be omitted.
Print To print the schematic. Note that the schematic is printed as it appears on the screen. If
you zoom in or out the schematic, the printout will be changed accordingly.
Print Preview To preview the printout.
Print Selected To print only a portion of the schematic selected.
Print Selected Preview To preview the printout of the portion of the schematic selected.
Print Page Setup To adjust the print page position and set the print page legend.
Printer Setup To set up the printer.
Exit To exit the PSIM schematic program.
2.4 Edit Menu

The following functions are provided in the Edit menu for circuit editing:
Undo To undo the previous change.
Redo To go back to the state before undoing the changes.
Cut To cut the selected circuit out of the schematic. The circuit that is cut can be pasted back.
To delete an element or a portion of the circuit, select the item and hit <Delete> key.
Copy To copy an element or a portion of a circuit into a buffer, which can then be pasted back.
Paste To paste back the copied element or circuit.
Select Matched Elements To select the elements which matches the specification.
Select All To select the entire schematic.
To select only a portion of the schematic, left click and drag the mouse.
Copy to Clipboard To copy the schematic image to the clipboard which can then be pasted back in another
software. One can choose one of the three options: Metafile Format, Color Bitmap, or
Black and White bitmap. The metafile format is vector based, and gives better image
quality especially when the image is resized. The Black & White option will result in a
smaller image file size as compared to the color bitmap.
Draw To draw images on the schematic for display purposes. The following images are
provided: line, ellipse, rectangle, half-circles, bitmap images, and graph.
To draw a bitmap image: left click the mouse and drag the mouse to define the area that
will contain the bitmap image. Then select the bitmap file.
To draw a graph, left click the mount and drag the mouse to define the area that will

display the waveform of selected probe.
Change All Text Font To change the font for all the text in the opened PSIM file
Change all Text Link Font To change the font for all the text link in the opened PSIM file.
Place Text To place text on the screen, choose Text. Enter the text in the dialog box, and click the left
button of the mouse to place it.
Place Wire To enter the wiring mode. The cursor will change to the shape of a pen.
Place Label To place a label on the schematic. When two nodes are connected to two labels of the
same name, they are considered physically connected.
Place External Port To place an external port
Edit Attributes When an element is selected, choose Attributes to bring out the property dialog window.
Add/Remove Current Scope To add or remove the current scope for an element that has the
current flag. After this function is selected, click on top of the element, and select the
branch current name to display the current scope. Select the branch current name again to
remove the current scope.
Show/Hide To show or hide the parameters of elements that can be changed
Runtime Variables at runtime in the middle of the simulation. After this is selected, the text of the parameter
will appear. Double click on the text, and a small dialog window will appear. Enter the
new value directly in the data field, and click Apply. Or alternatively, click on the up/
down arrow keys on the keyboard to increase/decrease the value.
Disable To disable an element or part of a circuit. When the element or the circuit is disabled, it
will be grayed out and will be treated as non-existent as far as the simulation is concerned.
This function is useful if an element or circuit needs to be excluded but not deleted from
the circuit.
Enable To enable a previously disabled element or circuit.
Rotate To rotate the selected element or a portion of the circuit by 90o clockwise.
Flip Left/Right To flip the selected element horizontally.
Flip Top/Bottom To flip the selected element vertically.
Find To find a particular element based on type and name.
Find Next To repeat the previous Find operation.
Find in Files To fined a particular element in several files.
Edit Library To edit PSIM image libraries. For more details, please refer to Section 2.12.
Set Print Layout Page Set the layout page for printing.
Image Editor To launch the image editor. For more details, please refer to Section 2.13.
Escape Quit from any of the above editing modes by choosing Escape.
2.5 View Menu

The following additional functions are provided in the View menu for circuit editing:
Application Look To select the display style of the PSIM windows.
Status Bar To show/hide the status bar.
Toolbar To show/hide the toolbar.
Element Bar To show/hide the element bar.
Library Browser To launch the Library Browser. The Library Browser is another way of accessing the
PSIM Element library.
Project View To launch the Project View. The project view organizes and manages the related files. The
projects organizing structure has been illustrated in Section 2.1
Zoom In To zoom in the schematic.
Zoom Out To zoom out the schematic.
Fit to Page To adjust the zooming so that the entire schematic fits the screen.

Zoom In Selected To zoom in to the selected area.
Zoom Level To zoom the schematic to 10%, 20%, ..., 200%, and custom size.
Element List To generate the parts list of the circuit.
Element Count To count the number of elements. Voltage/current probes and meters are not included in
the element count.
Display Voltage/Current If the option Save all voltages and currents (under Options >> Settings >>
General) is checked, after the simulation is complete, choose this function to display any
node voltages or branch currents.
Display Differential Voltage With the option Save all voltages and currents checked, after the simulation is
complete, choose this function to display any voltages between two nodes.
Set Node Name With the option Save all voltages and currents checked, after the simulation is complete,
choose this function to define the name of a node so that the displayed voltage waveform
has the specified name.
Refresh To refresh the screen display.
2.6 Design Suites Menu

Functions are provided in the Design Suites menu to run two design suite templates which generate electrical
circuit schematics automatically.
The following functions are provided:
Update Parameters To update the parameters in the circuit generated by design suite
Show Design File To display the system in design template form
Display Parameters To display the parameters of the system
HEV Design Suite To run the design templates in the HEV Design Suite. Four design templates are provided:
HEV Powertrain System, PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) Powertrain System,
HEV Generator, and HEV Traction Motor. Each template has its linear and nonlinear
version.
Motor Control Design SuiteTo run the design templates in the Motor Control Design Suite. Five design
templates are provided: PMSM (IPM) Drive, PMSM(IPM) Drive (Nonlinear),
PMSM(SPM) Drive, PMSM Drive, and Induction Motor Drive. For more information
about how to use Motor Control Design Suite, refer to the document "Tutorial - Motor
Control Design Suite.pdf".
2.7 Subcircuit Menu

Functions are provided in the Subcircuit menu for subcircuit editing and manipulation.
The following functions are to be performed in the parent circuit (outside the subcircuit):
New Subcircuit To create a new subcircuit
Load Subcircuit To load an existing subcircuit. The subcircuit will appear on the screen as a block.
Edit Subcircuit To edit the size and file name of the subcircuit
Display Subcircuit To display the name of a selected subcircuit in the main circuit
Name
Show Subcircuit To display the port names of the subcircuit in the main circuit
Ports
Hide Subcircuit To hide the port names of the subcircuit in the main circuit
Ports
Subcircuit List To list the file names of the main circuit and the subcircuits
The following functions are to be performed inside the subcircuit:
Set Size To set the size of the subcircuit
Place Bi-directional To place a bi-directional connection port in the subcircuit
Port

Place Input Signal To place an input signal connection port in the subcircuit
Port
Place Output Signal To place an output signal connection port in the subcircuit
Port
Display Port To display the connection port of the subcircuit
Edit Default To edit the default variable list of the subcircuit. This is done
Variable List inside the subcircuit.
Edit Image To edit the subcircuit image
One Page up To go back to the main circuit. The subcircuit is automatically saved.
Top Page To jump from a lower-level subcircuit to the top-level main circuit. This is useful for
circuits with multiple layers of subcircuits.
If the functions Set Size, Display Port, Edit Default Variable List, and Edit Image are performed in the main
circuit, they will be applied to the main circuit instead.
There are three types of subcircuit ports for signal interface with the main circuit: Bi-directional port for power
circuit and mechanical systems, and input signal and output signal ports for control circuit.
Even though bi-directional ports also work for control circuit, it is strongly recommended to use input or output
signal ports for control circuit for better clarity. Furthermore, if a subcircuit is involved in code generation, only
input or output signal ports can be used.
Right click on top of the subcircuit block, and choose Attributes to display the subcircuit property dialog
window. There are three tabs: Subcircuit Info, Subcircuit Variables, and Color.
In the Subcircuit Info Tab:
In this tab, the name of the subcircuit can be edited. click on the Change Subcircuit File button to change to a
different subcircuit. The selected subcircuit file will be loaded instead.
In the Subcircuit Variables Tab:
In this tab, variables used in the subcircuit can be edited. For example, a resistor in the circuit has the resistance
defined as "Rparasitic", and for better clarity, this resistance is referred to as "Parasitic Resistance". Also, the
resistance has a value of 1mOhm. This variable will be entered as:
Variable Description:Parasitic Resistance
Variable Name:Rparasitic
Variable Value:1m
When the checkbox for "Parasitic Resistance" is checked, in the main circuit, this variable will be displayed as:
Parasitic Resistance = 1m
Since subcircuit variable list can be edited, the current variable list may be different from the default variable
list. One can click on the Set as Default Variables button to set the current variable list as the default list, or
click on the Reload Default Variables button to reload the default list if the default list has been modified.
Two functions are provided at the bottom of the dialog for SimCoder for automatic code generation. Click on
the Generate Code button to generate code for this subcircuit. If the checkbox Replace subcircuit with
generated code for simulation is checked, the schematic inside the subcircuit will be replaced by the generated
code for simulation.
In the Color Tab: In this tab, the subcircuit color can be changed.
Example: Use of Subcircuit
The circuit below illustrates the use of subcircuit. The circuit on the left is a buck converter, with the L-C filter
inside a subcircuit. The content of the subcircuit is shown on the right.
In this example, there are two bi-directional ports ("in+" and "in-") on the left, and two bi-directional ports

("o+" and "o-") on the right.
Subcircuit Inside the subcircuit:
File: chop.sch File: chop_sub.sch
2.7.1 Creating Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit

The following are the steps to create the subcircuit chop_sub.sch in the main circuit chop.sch.
- Open or create the main circuit chop.sch.
- If the file chop_sub.sch does not exist, go to the Subcircuit menu, and select New Subcircuit. If
the file exists, select Load Subcircuit instead.
- A subcircuit block (rectangle) will appear on the screen. Place the subcircuit.
If the circuit that is to be converted into a subcircuit has already been created in the main circuit, a quick way of
converting it into a subcircuit is to select the circuit, and then right click and choose Create Subcircuit. Specify
the subcircuit file name as "chop_sub.sch", and the circuit will be converted into a subcircuit. Adjust the port
location and wire connection if necessary.
2.7.2 Creating Subcircuit - Inside the Subcircuit

To enter the subcircuit, double click on the subcircuit block.
- Create/edit the content of the subcircuit circuit exactly the same way as in the main circuit.
- To specify the subcircuit size, select Set Size in the Subcircuit menu. In this example, the size is set
to 4x7 (width of 4 divisions and height of 7 divisions). Note that the size of the subcircuit should be
chosen such that it gives the proper appearance and allows easy wire connection in the main
circuit.
- Once the subcircuit is complete, define ports to connect the subcircuit nodes with the corresponding
nodes in the main circuit. Choosing Place Port in the Subcircuit menu, and a port image will
appear. After the port is placed in the circuit, a pop-up window (shown on the left below) will
appear.
Subcircuit port assignments
The diamonds on the four sides represent the connection nodes and the positions of the subcircuit. They
correspond to the connection nodes of the subcircuit block on the right. There are no diamonds at
the four corners since connections to the corners are not permitted.
When a diamond is selected, it is colored red. By default, the left diamond at the top is selected and
marked with red color. Click on the desired diamond to select and to specify the port name.
In this example, in the main circuit chop.sch, there are four linking nodes, two on the left side and

two on the right side of the subcircuit block. The relative position of the nodes are that the upper
two nodes are 1 division below the top and the lower two nodes are 1 division above the bottom.
To specify the upper left linking node, click on the top diamond of the left side, and type in+. The
text in+ will be within that diamond box and a port labelled with in+ will appear on the screen.
Connect the port to the upper left node. The same procedure is repeated for the linking nodes in-,
out+, and out-.
- After the four nodes are placed, the node assignment and the subcircuit appear in PSIM as shown
below.
The creation of the subcircuit is now complete. Save the subcircuit, and go back to the main circuit.
2.7.3 Connecting Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit

Once the subcircuit is created and connection ports are defined, complete the connection to the subcircuit block
in the main circuit.
- In the main circuit, the connection points on the borders of the subcircuit block appear as hollow
circles.
- Select the subcircuit block, and select Show Subcircuit Ports in the Subcircuit menu to display the
port names as defined inside the subcircuit.
- Connect the wires to the connection points accordingly.
2.7.4 Other Features of the Subcircuit

This section describes other features of the subcircuit through the example shown below.
Inside the subcircuit:
File: sub.sch
File: main.sch
2.7.4.1 Passing Variables from the Main Circuit to Subcircuit

In this example, the main circuit main.sch uses a subcircuit sub.sch. In the subcircuit, the inductance value

is defined as L and the capacitance is defined as C. The default values of L and C can be set by selecting
Subcircuit | Set Default Variable List. In this case, L is set to 5mH and C is set to 100uF.
When the subcircuit is loaded into the main circuit the first time, this default variable list will appear in the tab
Subcircuit Variables in Subcircuit | Edit Subcircuit from the main circuit main.sch. New variables can be
added here and variable values can be changed. In this case, L is changed to 2mH, and C is kept the same as the
default value.
Note that the variables and the values are saved to the netlist file and used in simulation. The default variable list
inside the subcircuit is not saved to the netlist and is not used for simulation.
This feature allows the parameters of a subcircuit to be defined at the main circuit level. In the case where the
same subcircuit is used several times in one main circuit, different parameters can be assigned to the same
variable. For example, if the subcircuit sub.sch is used two times in above example, in one subcircuit L can be
defined as 3mH, and in another subcircuit L can be defined as 1mH.
Note that this example also illustrates the feature that parameters can be defined as a variable (for example
Vin for the input dc voltage source) or a mathematical expression (for example R1+R2 for the load
resistance). The variables Vin, R1, and R2, are defined in the parameter file para-main.txt. See Section
4.1 for more details.
2.7.4.2 Customizing the Subcircuit Image

The following are the procedures to customize the subcircuit image of sub.sch:
- In the subcircuit, select Edit Image in the Subcircuit menu. A window will pop-up, as shown below.
In the window, the diamonds marked red are the connection nodes of the subcircuit block, in exactly
the same positions as appearing in the main circuit.
- Use the drawing tool to create/edit the image for the subcircuit block. If the drawing tool is not
already displayed, go to the View menu and check Drawing Tools. Click on Zoom In and Zoom
Out icons on the toolbar to adjust the size of the image working area.
After the image is created, the pop-out window will appear as follows.

- Go back to the subcircuit window (sub.sch in this case), and save the subcircuit. The new subcircuit
block image should appear in the main circuit.
2.7.4.3 Including Subcircuits in the PSIM Element List

If you create a directory called User Defined under the PSIM directory, and place subcircuits inside this
directory. subcircuits will appear as items in the Elements menu, under Elements | User Defined, just like any
other PSIM elements. You can also create subdirectories under the directory User Defined, and place
subcircuits inside the subdirectories. For example, the Elements menu may look like this:
- Power
- Control
- Other
- Sources
- Symbols
- User Defined
- Subcircuit 1
- Project A
- Subcircuit 2
- Subcircuit 3
- Project B
- Subcircuit 4
In this way, common-used custom-built subcircuits can be grouped together and easily managed and accessed.
2.8 Elements Menu

All the PSIM elements are stored in the following libraries:
Power Contains power circuit elements, such as R, L, C, switching devices, transformers, motor
drive modules, and etc.
Control Contains control circuit elements, such as computational. logic, digital control elements
and etc.
Other Contains elements interconnecting power and control circuit, such as switch controllers,
voltage/current sensors, probes, and etc.
Sources Contains various voltage and current sources.
Symbols Contains symbols for drawing purpose, not for simulation usage.
Event Control Contains event control elements
SimCoder Contains SimCoder blocks for automatic code generation.
User Defined Contains the PSIM files in the "User Defined" subfolder of the Powersim directory
Page Place a page title block for printing
2.9 Running Simulation

There are two options to run PSIM simulation: using the Simulate Menu or with Command Line.
2.9.1 Simulate Menu

The following functions are provided in the Simulate menu for running simulation:
Simulation Control To set the simulation parameters such as time step, total time, etc. When this is selected,
the cursor will change to the image of a clock. Place this clock on the schematic, and
double click to display the property window.
Run Simulation To run the simulation.
Cancel Simulation To cancel the simulation that is currently in progress.
Pause Simulation To pause the simulation that is currently in progress.
Restart Simulation To resume a paused simulation.

Simulate Next Time Step To run the simulation to the next time step, and pause.
Run SIMVIEW To launch the waveform display program SIMVIEW.
Run MonteCarlo SimulationTo run the Monte Carlo simulation
Run Parameter SweepTo run parameter sweep simulation
Generate Netlist File To generate the netlist file from the schematic.
Generate Netlist File (xml) To generate the netlist file in xml format from the schematic
View Netlist File To view the generated netlist file.
Show Warning To show the warning messages, if any, from the simulation.
Show Fixed-Point Range Check ResultTo display the fixed-point range check result.
Arrange SLINK Nodes To rearrange the SLINK nodes. This function is for the SimCoupler Module for co-
simulation with Matlab/Simulink. Please refer to Section 3.6 for more details.
Generate Code To generate code from the control schematic. This function is for SimCoder for automatic
code generation. Please refer to SimCoder User Manual for more details.
Open Generated Code FolderTo open the folder where the generated code are located.
Runtime Graph To select waveforms to show in the middle of a simulation run.
To view the simulation results in the middle of the simulation, one can either go to Simulate >> Runtime
Graphs to select the waveforms, or use the voltage/current scopes (under Elements >> Other >> Probes) to
view the waveforms.
The difference between the runtime graphs and the voltage/current scopes is that only waveforms that are saved
for display in SIMVIEW (such as voltage probes, current probes, current flags, etc.) are available for the
runtime graphs. In addition, a runtime graph display the waveform in its entirety, from the beginning to the final
study time. Because of this, the runtime graphs are disabled in the free-run mode as the final study time is
undetermined.
On the other hand, voltage/current scopes can be used in either the one-time simulation mode or in the free-run
mode. Voltage scopes can be connected to any nodes, and will display the node-to-ground voltage waveforms.
On the other hand, current scopes are available to elements that have current flags (such as R-L-C branches and
switches).
Moreover, in the free-run mode, the majority of the element parameters can be changed during runtime in the
middle of the simulation. This makes it possible to tune a circuit while inspecting key waveforms using voltage/
current scopes, until desired performance is achieved.
To illustrate how to run a simulation in the free-run mode, a buck converter circuit shown below is used as an
example. The circuit on the left was originally set up for the one-time simulation, with the total simulation time
set to a specific value.
One-time simulation Simulation in the free-run mode
To set up the simulation in the free-run mode:

- In Simulation Control, check the Free Run checkbox.
- Go to Elements >> Other >> Scopes, and select the 2-channel voltage scope. Connect the scope
as shown above on the right.
- Double click on the scope, and the scope image will appear. Start the simulation, and the
waveforms will appear and will be updated continuously in the scope. Change the scope settings as
desired.
- Elements parameters can now be adjusted in the middle of the simulation. To adjust the gain of the
PI controller, for example, right click on top of the PI block, and choose Runtime Variables >>
Gain. The text of the gain "0.6" will be displayed if it has not been displayed already.
- Click on the text "0.6", and a small dialog window will appear. The screen should look as follows.
Gain of the
PI controller
- Place the cursor inside the input field of the dialog window for the gain, and change the gain either
by pressing on the upper/down arrow keys on the keyboard, or by entering a new value and then
clicking on Apply. Watch how the waveforms change as the gain is changed.
Other parameters, such as current reference, dc input voltage, inductance, capacitance, and load
resistance, can be changed in the similar way.
- Branch currents can also be displayed in the free-run mode. To display the inductor current, for
example, right click on top of the inductor, and a menu will appear. Choose Current Scopes and
the branch current name.
- An image of the current scope (similar to the voltage scope image, but without connection
terminals) will appear. Double click on the scope to expand and view the inductor waveform.
Below is how the window would look like with both the voltage scope and the current scope.
Other branch currents, such as capacitor current, load current, diode current, or MOSFET switch
current, can be displayed in the similar way.

Current scope
Voltage scope
2.9.2 Simulation Command-Line

Simulation can also be launched with the command line option by running the program PsimCmd.exe. For
example, to simulate the circuit "buck.psimsch" which is stored in the folder "c:\Powersim\examples", go to the
PSIM folder, and run the following command:
PsimCmd -i "c:\psim\examples\buck.psimsch" -o "c:\psim\examples\buck.smv"
The format of the command line is as follows:
PsimCmd -i "[input file]" -o "[output file]" -v "VarName1=VarValue1" -v "VarName2=VarValue2" -t
"TotalTime" -s "TimeStep" -g
Note that the quotes around the parameter values must be present. The command-line parameters are:
-i: Input schematic file name
-o: Output file name (in either .txt or .smv extension)
-v: Variable name and value. This parameter can be used multiple times. For example, to define
the resistance R1 as 1.5 and the inductance L1 as 0.001, we have:
-v "R1=1.5" -v "L1=0.001"
-t: Total time of the simulation
-s: Time step of the simulation
-g Run SIMVIEW after the simulation is complete
Note that the number of variables that can be defined in a command line is limited to 30.
With the command-line option, one can run several circuits automatically in a batch run.
2.10 Options Menu

The following functions are provided in the Options menu for various settings:
Settings... To set the simulation parameters such as time step, total time, etc. When this is selected,
the cursor will change to the image of a clock. Place this clock on the schematic, and
double click to display the property window.
Languages To select different languages for PSIM display.
Auto-run SIMVIEW To automatically run SIMVIEW after the simulation is complete.
Set Path... To set the PSIM search paths and device file paths.

Enter Password To enter the password to view a schematic file that is password protected.
Disable Password To disable the protection of a schematic file that is password protected.
Customize... To create customized toolbars, keyboard, and application menu frame.
Save Custom Settings... To save the following custom settings to a file: Default element values; custom
keyboard definition; and custom toolbar definition. This file can then be loaded on
another computer using the Load Custom Settings... function. This is useful when you
want to apply the same custom settings on another computer.
Load Custom Settings... To load custom setting files saved by the Save Custom Settings... function. This will
apply the custom settings defined in the file to this computer.
Load Legacy Tool Bars To load legacy tool bars of previous PSIM versions.
Deactivate To deactivate the PSIM license. This is for softkey version only.
Change Softkey Password To change the password of login for running PSIM softkey version. This is for
softkey version only.
Check for Software Update To check if any newer software updates are available on the Powersim server.
This is for licenses that have the Annual Software Maintenance only.
2.10.1 Setting Options

The Settings menu has tabs: General, Advanced, Colors, and Page Sizes.
The General tab contains these sections: Editing, Text Font, Printing, and Simulation:
In Editing section:
Display grid Check this option to display the grid in the PSIM schematic.
Zoom factor The zoom factor defined here is used when the schematic is zoomed in or out.
Enable rubber band When checked, an element or a portion of a circuit remains connected with the rest of the
circuit when moved.
Show print page border When enabled, the border of the printout will be displayed.
In Text Font section:
Default text font Set the default font for the text placed in the schematic.
Justification Define how the text will be aligned.
Default graph font Set the text font for the runtime graphs.
In Printing section:
Line thickness Define the thickness of the line as it appears at the printout. It can be set to 1 (the thinnest)
to 4 (the thickest). Note that the line thickness only affects the printout. It does not affect
the display on the screen.
In Simulation Section:
Simulation result format Simulation results can be saved in either binary format (default) or text format. The
binary format will result in a smaller result file, and will be faster to load.Set the default
font for the text placed in the schematic.
Output buffer size When checked, the simulation data will be written to the result file in segment. For
example, if the buffer size is set to 20 MB, the simulation data will be first saved to the
buffer, and when it reaches 20 MB, the whole 20-MB data will be written to the result file.
Please note that the runtime graph only plots the data in the buffer. Therefore, when the
old data are saved to the file and the new data fills in the buffer, the runtime graph will
only show the waveform of the new data, and the old waveform will be lost.
To retain all the waveforms in the runtime graph, one can either increase the buffer size,
or un-check this option.
When this option is un-checked, however, PSIM will allocate all the required memory for
the buffer at the very beginning. If the simulation time step is small and the total time is
long, and if there are many output curves, a very large memory may be required, which

will take some time to allocate, and may even fail if the computer does not have sufficient
amount of memory.
Disable simulation warning messages When this option is checked, warning messages generated in the
simulation are suppressed.
Save all voltages and current When this option is checked, all the voltages and currents of the circuit will be
saved for display. To display a voltage or current, after the simulation is complete and
after results are loaded into SIMVIEW, choose View >> Display Voltage/Current (or
click on the corresponding icon). When the cursor is on top of a node or a branch, it will
change to the image of a voltage probe or current clamp probe. Left click the mouse, and
the corresponding voltage or current will appear in SIMVIEW.
To display a differential voltage, choose View >> Display Differential Voltage. Then
click on the first node, and then the second node. The differential voltage waveform will
appear in SIMVIEW.
Maximum number of points for oscilloscope It defines the maximum number of points that an oscilloscope
will plot. Increase this number to display waveforms for a longer time interval.
The Advanced tab contains these sections: Software Updates, Automatic Backup, Time out, Code Generation
Indication, and PSIM Help File.
In Software Updates section:
Check for software updates When this option is checked, if you have the valid software annual maintenance,
PSIM will automatically check for new updates on the Powersim server. If a new update
is available, you will be prompted to install the update.
On Automatic Backup:
Automatic backup When this option is checked, PSIM will create a backup of the file currently being edited
in the time interval specified. In case of a program crash, the backup file will preserve the
previous work. The backup file is deleted automatically when the file is closed normally
from the PSIM environment.
In Time-Out section:
Idle time When this option is checked, PSIM will be timed out after the program is idle for the
specified amount of time. Note that this applies to the PSIM network version only.
When PSIM is timed out, the license will be released and other users will be able to check
it out. When PSIM is back from the idle state, it will try to log back in the License
Manager if a license is still available. If there is no license available, an error message will
be posted.
This feature will prevent users from holding up licenses unintentionally.
In Code Generation Indication section:
Show image next to elements ... This is for SimCoder only for automatic code generation. When this option is
checked, in the PSIM library, an image will appear next to the elements that can be used
for code generation. This is used to differentiate elements that can be used for code
generation from the ones that can not.
In PSIM Help File section:
Use alternate PSIM help file path By default, PSIM reads the help file psim.chm from the same PSIM folder.
When this option is checked, PSIM will read the help file from the specified file path
instead.
Under the Colors tab:
Color settings Colors for grids, elements, subcircuits, ports, wire, text, nodes, and labels can be set.
Wire color The wire color can be set either by default, or by circuit type.

2.10.2 Set Path Options
The Set Path... function in the Options menu allows users to define additional search paths when loading an
external DLL file or device file. For example, if a schematic file uses a DLL file, and this DLL file is placed in
a directory other than the schematic directory or the PSIM directory, this directory can be included in PSIM by
using the Set Path function. Similarly, if a Thermal Module device is placed in a folder other than the default
device folder, this device file can be used by PSIM schematic by including the folder in the Device File Path.
PSIM searches the DLL files in the following order:
- PSIM directory
- Schematic file directory
- Directories as defined in the PSIM Search Path section.
The first time that the DLL file is encountered, it will be loaded. For example, assume that the PSIM program
files are in C:\PSIM, the schematic file is in C:\TEMP; and the directory as defined in the Set Path function is
C:\TEMPDLL. The DLL file can be in one of the three places:
- C:\PSIM
- C:\TEMP
- C:\TEMPDLL
PSIM loads the Thermal Module device files in the following order:
- The "device" sub-folder in the PSIM directory
- Directories as defined in the Device File Path section.
All the device files in the PSIMs device sub-folder and in the folders defined in the Device File Path will be
loaded.
2.10.3 Customizing Toolbars and Keyboards

The procedures for create customized toolbars and to customize keyboards are described below.
Customizing Toolbars:
To create a toolbar called "new" and add the AND gate to the toolbar, for example, do the following:
Toolbar
icon area
Predefined
icon images
Icon
editing area
Choose View >> Custom Toolbars. The Custom Toolbars dialog window will appear. Choose New Tool-
bar, and the following window will appear.
Specify the Toolbar Name as "new".
Draw the AND gate icon in the icon editing area. Or if the icon is already available in the predefined icon
images, select the icon and copy it to the icon editing area.

Under the Edit Command section, with the option Elements selected, highlight "AND Gate". Then click
on the Add Button. The icon will appear in the toolbar icon area. Click on OK to close the window, and go
back to the Custom Toolbars window.
Check "new" in the Custom Toolbars dialog window, and the new toolbar will appear. Uncheck the box will
hide the toolbar.
Customizing Keyboard:
To define the key "r" for getting a resistor from the library, for example, do the following:
Choose View >> Custom Keyboard. The Custom Toolbars dialog window will appear. Choose New Tool-
bar, and the following window will appear.
In the section Add Shortcut Key, select the option Elements. Then find and highlight the element "Resis-
tor".
Move the cursor into the input field of Press new shortcut key, and press the key "r" on the keyboard. Then
click on Assign.
The key "r" will be assigned to the resistor, and the definition will appear in the Current Shortcut Key list.
2.11 Utilities Menu

Several utility programs are provided under the Utilities menu.
Parameter Tool It launches a parameter file window. One can load an existing parameter file, or enter
expressions for computation purposes.
s2z Converter This program converts a s-domain function to a z-domain function. This program is part
of the Digital Control Module option.
Device Database Editor The device database editor PcdEditor.exe for the Thermal Module.
B-H Curve This program plots the B-H curve of the saturable core element (under Elements >>
Power >> Magnetic Elements).
Solar Module (physical model) This program plots the i-v curve of the solar module (physical model) element
(under Elements >> Power >> Renewable Energy). This function is part of the
Renewable Energy option.
SimCoupler Setup This will launch the program SetSimPath.exe that performs the setup for co-simulation
between PSIM and Matlab/Simulink. This function is part of the SimCoupler Module.
DSP Oscilloscope The DSP Oscilloscope function is available as part of the TI F2833x/F2803x Target. It is
used together with the SCI functions to display DSP waveforms in real time. For more
information on how to use the DSP Oscilloscope, please refer to the document "Tutorial -
Using SCI for Real-Time Monitoring in TI F2833x Target.pdf".
Ultracapacitor Model Tool The parameter extraction tool for ultracapacitor models. For more information,
please refer to the document "Tutorial - Ultracapacitor Model.pdf".
Launch/Export to To launch the SmartCtrl software, or if the ac sweep result is available, to export the ac
SmartCtrl sweep result to SmartCtrl. SmartCtrl is a separate software for control loop design. For
more information, please refer to the Help menu in SmartCtrl.

Unit Converter This program performs unit conversion in length, area, weight, and temperature.
Calculator This will launch the Windows calculator.
2.12 Managing the PSIM Library

A PSIM library element consists of two parts: the netlist part and the image part. The netlist part comes from the
netlist library, and there is only one netlist library, psim.lib. The netlist library can not be edited.
The image part comes from an image library. There can be multiple image libraries, and all the image libraries
in the PSIM directory will be automatically loaded into PSIM. The standard image library provided by PSIM is
psimimage.lib. This file also can not be edited. However, in order to facilitate users to copy images from the
standard image library, the standard image library can be viewed by going to Edit >> Edit Library >> Edit
library files, and choosing psimimage.lib.
Users can create their own custom image libraries. To create a new custom image library, go to Edit >> Edit
Library >> Edit library files, and click on New library. Then define the library name as it appears in the
PSIM Elements menu, and the library file name. This library file will be created and placed in the PSIM
directory.
To edit an image library, go to Edit >> Edit Library >> Edit library files, and select the library file. The figure
below shows the library editor dialog window. The dialog shows the menu tree of the library as well as various
functions.
To create a new element in the custom image library, click on New Element, and select the netlist that this
element corresponds to from the list. For example, the netlist name of the resistor is "R". To create a new
element called "My Resistor", select the netlist "R". To create the image for this resistor, click on Edit Image.
The following functions are provided in the library editor:
Netlist name
Up To move an element up in the menu

Down To move an element down in the menu
---> To move an element one level lower in the menu
<--- To move an element one level higher in the menu
Add Separator To add a separator between elements
Add Submenu To add a submenu in the library

Edit To edit the name of an element
Edit Image To edit the image of an element
New Element To create a new element in the image library. This element will be linked to a netlist
element in the netlist library.
Save Element as To save the existing element as a new element. The new element will have the image of
the existing element as the default image.
Delete Element To delete an element from the library
New Element (DLL) To create a new element from a DLL file
New Subcircuit Element (External) To create a new element from a subcircuit, and the subcircuit file is stored
outside the library file
New Subcircuit Element (Internal) To create a new element from a subcircuit, and the subcircuit file is stored
inside the library file
2.12.1 Creating a Secondary Image

It is possible that some users may find certain element images in the standard PSIM image library
psimimage.lib different from what they are used to use. In this case, users can create their own secondary
images.
A secondary image can be created for an element in either standard image library psimimage.lib or users own
custom image libraries. Secondary images are saved in a secondary image library with the .lib2 extension.
To illustrate the process, a secondary image will be created in the library "mylib.lib2" for the "Diode" element
in the standard image library.
Go to Edit >> Edit Library >> Edit secondary image library files, and click on New library. In the dia-
log, define the secondary image library name as "mylib.lib2".
Then select "mylib.lib2" and click on Edit selected library. The dialog window for editing secondary image
library will appear.
Click on the Add button. From the PSIM library tree, navigate to Power >> Switches, and select "Diode".
The element "Diode" will appear in the list of the secondary images. The text "PSIMIMAGE" in front of
the "Diode" text shows that this is for the diode element in the standard image library psimimage.lib.
Highlight "Diode", and click on the Edit button to create the image.
If this image is to be used as the default image for this element, click on the "Set as Default Image".
After the secondary image is created, this image will be available for selection in the PSIM schematic. For
example, if a diode is placed on the schematic, double click to display the property dialog of the diode, then
click on the Color tab. Click on the pull-down arrow, and two images will be displayed. One from the standard
image library, and the other from the custom image library mylib.lib.
If the secondary image is selected, all the images of the same element will be automatically changed to the
secondary image. The selected image will also be set as the default image when a schematic is created or loaded
the next time.
Standard image
Secondary image

To share the secondary images that one creates with other people, one just has to send to them the secondary
image library file (with the .lib2 extension).
2.12.2 Adding a New Subcircuit Element into the Library

There are two ways to add a custom model to the PSIM library list. One is to have the model in the form of a
subcircuit, and then place the schematic file in a folder called user defined in the PSIM directory, or in one of
the sub-folders of the user defined folder. Any schematic files and sub-folders under the user defined folder
will appear in the PSIM library list.
Another way is to add the custom model directly to an image library. The advantage of this approach is that the
custom element will have the same look-and-feel as the standard PSIM elements, giving it a better interface. It
is also possible to associate a help file to the custom model.
There are three main steps to add a new element, modeled in a subcircuit, into the library:
Create the subcircuit model of the new element.
Add this element to the PSIM library.
Create an on-line help file for this new element.
To illustrate this process, a LC-filter element is used as an example.
Step 1: Create Subcircuit
The first step is to create the subcircuit of the new element in the same way as if the subcircuit is to be called by
another circuit. For example, the subcircuit of the 2nd-order LC filter, called "LC_filter.sch", and its image are
shown below:
In this case, the inductance and capacitance values will be defined through the interface, and need to appear in
the property window of the new LC filter element. Therefore, the parameter value for the inductance needs to be
defined as a variable, in this case, L, and the value for the capacitance as C.
Then from Subcircuit >> Edit Default Variable List, add the variables L and C as the default variables. This
step is necessary as the new element obtains the parameter information from the default variable list. The
default variable list window should appears as follows.

Here Variable Label is the text that describes the parameter, Variable Name is the variable that is used as the
parameter value in the subcircuit, and Variable Value is the default value of the parameter. In the example, for
the inductor L, the Variable Label is Inductance, the Variable Name is L, and the Variable Value is 1m. For
the capacitor C, the Variable Label is Capacitance, the Variable Name is C, and the Variable Value is 100u.
After the file is created, place it in the "lib" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
Step2: Add the New Element to the PSIM Library:
To add the subcircuit element into the PSIM library, follow these steps:
-Go to Edit >> Edit Library >> Edit Library Files, and choose the custom image library for the new ele-
ment. Click on New Library to create a new image library, or select an existing library and click on Edit
Selected Library.
-In the Library Editor, click on the button New Element (Subcircuit). Enter the information to the dialog
window as shown below:
Name: Name of the new element as it appears in the PSIM library

Description: Description of the new element
File Path: The location of the subcircuit schematic file "LC_filter.sch". The schematic file of the
subcircuit must be placed in the "lib" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
Input nodes: Number of input nodes.
Output nodes: Number of output nodes.
Hide (menu): Leave this box unchecked. If this box is checked, this element will not appear in the
library.
Help File: On-line help file associated with this element. This file must be placed in the "help" sub-
folder in the PSIM directory. When the Help button is clicked in the property dialog window, this
file will be displayed. This file can be a text file (which can be opened by a text editor such as
NotePad) or a HTML file.
Click on the buttons Save Image Library and Update Menu. The new element will appear in the library
and will be ready to use.
2.12.3 Adding a New DLL Element into the Library

Similar to that of a subcircuit element, there are three main steps to add a new element, modeled in a DLL, into
the PSIM library:
Create the model in the DLL file.
Add this element to the PSIM library.
Create an on-line help file for this new element.
To illustrate this process, an inductor is used as an example.
Creating the DLL:
The first step is to create the inductance model in DLL. Please refer to the relevant section on how to create a
custom DLL.
Here we assume that the DLL file, "inductor_model.dll", has already been created. It has one parameter called

"Inductance", and two connecting nodes. The file is placed in the "lib" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
Adding the New Element to the PSIM Library:
To add the DLL element into the PSIM library, follow these steps:
Go to Edit >> Edit Library >> Edit Library Files, and choose the library for the new element. Click on
New Library to create a new image library, or select an existing library and click on Edit Selected
Library.
In the Library Editor, click on the button New DLL File. Enter the information to the dialog window as
shown below:
Name: Name of the new inductor element as it appears in the PSIM library
Description: Description of the new inductor element
File Path: The location of the DLL file "inductor_model.dll" that models the new inductor element.
The DLL file must be placed in the "lib" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
Input Nodes: Number of input terminals of the new element.
Output Nodes: Number of output terminals of the new element.
Hide (menu): Leave this box unchecked. If this box is checked, this element will not appear in the
library.
Help File: On-line help file associated with this element. This file must be placed in the "help" sub-
folder in the PSIM directory. When the Help button is clicked in the property dialog window, this
file will be displayed. This file can be a text file (which can be opened by a text editor such as
NotePad) or a HTML file.
In the next dialog window, set the new element size as: Width = 5, and Height = 2. Then create an image for
this element, or accept the default image.
Click on the buttons Save Image Library and Update Menu. The new element will appear in the library
and will be ready to use.
The information regarding the number of parameters and the parameter description for the new inductor
element is obtained from the DLL file automatically. In this case, the new element will have one parameter as
"Inductance".
2.13 Creating a Symbol Library

With the Image Editor in the Edit menu, one can easily create good component images very quickly. These
images can be used as secondary images of PSIM library elements, or images of subcircuits. One can also store
these images in a symbol library for the purpose of circuit wiring diagrams. Note that such a schematic is solely
for display purposes, and can not be simulated.
The figure below shows a hardware circuit diagram from a SPI A/D converter example.

The blocks F28335, 74HCT138, and TLV1548 are all created by the Image Editor.
To illustrate how to create an image using the Image Editor, and save the image as a symbol into a custom
library, we will create the image for the decoder 74HCT138 as shown below:
In PSIM, create a new schematic window. Then choose Edit >> Image Editor. A rectangle will appear.
Place the rectangle on the schematic, and press the Esc key to escape.
Double click on the rectangle, and a dialog window will appear. In the Main tab, enter the data field as
shows on the screen below. The Library Part Name is the name of the element as it appears in the library.
The size of the block is 5 in width and 9 in height, without taking into account the length of the leads.
Click on the Pins tab. In this tab, the connection pins will be defined. Click on the Add button, and define
Location as "1 - Left", Name as "A", and Number as "1". Leave the boxes for Dot, clk, and Overline
unchecked.
If the boxes are checked, for Dot, there will be a circle between the connection pin and the block; for
clk, a symbol > will be added inside the block to indicate that it is a clock; and for Overline, an
overline will be added to the name.
Click on the Add button, and define Location as "2 - Left", Name as "B", and Number as "2". Repeat the
same process for the rest of the pins. The dialog windows below show the definitions of all the connection
pins.

Once all the pins are added, go back to the Main tab. Click on Save in library, and select [New Library].
Enter the library name as "My Symbol", and specify the library file name as "My Symbol".The library "My
Symbol" will appear under the Elements menu, and this library will contain the newly created element
74HCT138.

3
Waveform Processing in SimView
SIMVIEW is PSIMs waveform display and post-processing program. The following shows simulation
waveforms in the SIMVIEW environment.
SIMVIEW reads data in either ASCII text format or SIMVIEW binary format. The following shows a sample
text data file:
Time Isa Isc Isb Tem_IM
5.000000000E-006 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 7.145888260E-048
1.000000000E-005 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 1.082981714E-046
1.500000000E-005 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 0.000000000E+000 5.408644357E-046
2.000000000E-005 1.139566166E-001 -2.279132474E-001 1.139566166E-001 1.613605209E-017
2.500000000E-005 5.072914178E-001 -1.014582858E+000 5.072914178E-001 3.598226665E-015
... ... ... ...
Functions in each menu are explained in the following sections.
3.1 File Menu

The File Menu has the following functions:
Open Load a data file in ASCII text format (with .txt extension) or SIMVIEW binary format
(with .smv extension)
Merge Merge another data file with the existing data file for display
Re-Load Data Re-load data from the same text file
Save As Save the waveforms to either binary data format or text format. When saving to the
binary format, the current settings are also saved. In the FFT display, this will save the
FFT results to a text file specified by the user.
Print Print the waveforms
Print Setup Set up the printer
Print Page Setup Set up the hardcopy printout size
Print Preview Preview the printout
Exit Quit SIMVIEW
Chapter 3: Waveform Processing in SimView 33

When the data of a file are currently being displayed, if new data is available, by selecting Re-Load Data, new
data will be loaded and waveforms will be re-drawn.
With the Merge function, data from multiple files can be merged together for display. For example, if one file
contains the curves I1 and I2, and another file contains the curves V1 and V2, all four curves can be
merged and displayed on one screen. If the second file also contains a curve with the same name I1, it will be
modified to I1_({second_file_name}) automatically where second_file_name is the name of the second file.
3.2 Edit Menu

The Edit Menu has the following functions:
Undo Go back to the previous X and Y axis settings
Copy to Clipboard Copy the waveforms to the clipboard either in metafile format or bitmap format.
View Data Points View the data points of the waveforms within the displayed range in a separate
window. In this window, one can use the left mouse to highlight data points in rows or
columns, then right mouse click and choose Copy Selected to copy the data to the
clipboard. One could also just copy the row that the cursor is on by selecting Copy
Row, or copy the entire data by selecting Copy All. One can then paste the copied data
back in another program.
Note that the Copy to Clipboard function will copy the displayed waveforms on the screen to the clipboard. To
save the memory and have the waveform image in black & white, first go to Option and de-select Color to have
a black & white display, then copy the waveform to the clipboard.
3.3 Axis Menu

The Axis Menu has the following functions:
X Axis Change the settings of the X axis
Y Axis Change the settings of the Y axis
Choose X-Axis Variable By default, the first column of the data is selected as the X axis. However,
other columns can also be selected as the X axis through this function.
The dialog box of the X/Y axis settings are shown below.
If the Auto-Grid box is checked, the number of axis divisions will be automatically determined. The data range
and grid division, however, can be manually set.
The following figure shows a sine waveform is chosen as the X-axis versus a cosine waveform in the Y axis.
34 Chapter 3: Waveform Processing in SimView

3.4 Screen Menu
The Screen Menu has the following functions:
Add/Delete Curves Add or delete curves from the selected screen
Add Screen Add a new screen
Delete Screen Delete the selected screen
A screen is selected by clicking the left mouse on top of the screen.
The property dialog window of curves is shown below.
Edit Box
All the data variables available for display are in the Variables Available box, and the variables currently being
displayed are in the Variables for Display box. After a variable is highlighted in the Variables Available box, it
can be added to the Variables for Display box by clicking on Add ->. Similarly, a variable can be removed
from display by highlighting the variable and clicking on <- Remove.
In the Edit Box, mathematical expressions can be specified. The mathematical expressions may contain
brackets and is not case sensitive. The following math functions are allowed:
+ addition
- subtraction
* multiplication
/ division
^ to the power of [Example: 2^3 = 2*2*2]
SQRT square-root function
SIN sine function
COS cosine function
TAN tangent function
ATAN inverse tangent function
EXP exponential (base e) [Example: EXP(x) = ex]
LOG logarithmic function (base e) [Example: LOG(x) = ln (x)]
LOG10 logarithmic function (base 10)
ABS absolute function
SIGN sign function [Example: SIGN(1.2) = 1; SIGN(-1.2) = -1]
AVG moving average function, calculates the average of the curve y up to the measured
point.
AVGX periodic average function AVGX(y,Tp) where y is the curve name and Tp is the time
interval where the average is calculated. Calculates the average of the curve y in each
time segment with interval of the time segment as Tp. For example, AVGX(V1,
0.016667) will calculate the average of the curve V1 at the 60-Hz interval.
INT integration function
Type an expression in the Edit Box and click the "Add ->" button to add the calculated curve to the screen. .
Highlight the expression on the right and click the "<- Remove" button, the expression will be moved into the
Edit Box for further editing.

In the Curves tab, the curve properties, such as color, line thickness, and marker symbol, can be defined.
In the Screen tab, the screen properties, such as foreground/background colors, grid color, and font size/type,
can be defined.
3.5 Measure Menu

The Measure Menu has the following functions:
Measure Enter the measure mode.
Mark Data Point Mark the x and y coordinate values of the data point in a selected curve
Max Find the global maximum of a selected curve
Min Find the global minimum of a selected curve
Next Max Find the next local maximum of a selected curve
Next Min Find the next local minimum of a selected curve
The Measure function allows the measurement of waveforms. After Measure is selected, the measure dialog
window will appear. By clicking the left mouse, a line will appear and the values of the waveforms will be
displayed. By clicking the right mouse, another line will appear and the different between the current position
and the previous position, which is marked by the left mouse, will be measured. A SIMVIEW window with the
measure dialog windows in these two modes are shown below.
Left mouse click Right mouse click
Once Measure is selected, an individual curve can be selected by clicking on the pull-down menu
on the Measure toolbar. The functions, Max, Min, Next Max, Next Min, Avg, and rms, can
be used to evaluate the curve. Note that these functions are only enabled in the Measure mode.
3.6 Analysis Menu

The Analysis Menu has the following functions:
Perform FFT Perform the FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analysis of time-domain waveforms
Display in Time Domain Show the corresponding time-domain waveforms of FFT results
Avg Calculate the average value
Avg(|x|) Calculate the average of the absolute value
RMS Calculate the rms value
PF (power factor) Calculate the power factor of two waveforms on the screen. The screen must display two
curves only. Assuming the first curve is a voltage and the second curve is a current, the
power factor is defined as the real power P divided by the apparent power S produced by
the voltage and current.

Note that the power factor is different from the displacement power factor, defined as
cos(theta) where theta is the angle difference between the fundamental components of the
voltage and current. When the voltage and current are pure sine waves without harmonics,
the power factor is the same as the displacement power factor.
P (real power) Calculate the real power of two waveforms on the screen. The screen must display two
curves only.
S (apparent power) Calculate the apparent power of two waveforms on the screen. The screen must display
two curves only.
THD Calculate the THD (total harmonic distortion)
All these functions apply to the time interval currently being displayed on the screen.
By selecting Perform FFT, the harmonic spectrum (both the amplitudes and angle) of the time-domain
waveforms can be calculated and displayed. To display the angles of the FFT results, double click on top of the
screen (or click on the Add/Delete Curves icon). In the Select Curves tab, click on the Angle tab, and select the
angles. The name convention of angles is Angle(D)_{name} for the angle in deg., and Angle(R)_{name} for the
angle in rad., and name is the curve name in the time domain.
Note that, in order to obtain correct FFT results, the simulation must reach the steady state, and the data range
must be restricted (using the manual range setting in the X Axis function) to have the integer number of the
fundamental period. For example, for a 60-Hz fundamental frequency, the data length in display must be integer
multiples of 1/60 sec.
3.7 View Menu

The View Menu has the following functions:
Zoom Zoom into a selected region
Re-Draw Re-draw the waveform using the auto-scale
Escape Escape from the Zoom or Measure mode
Standard Toolbar Enable/disable standard toolbar
Measure Toolbar Enable/disable measure toolbar
Status Bar Enable/disable status bar
Calculator Launch the Calculator in Simview
The interface of the calculator is shown below.
Memory
Expression
Result
One key feature of the calculator is that it provides 9 memory spaces. By double clicking on a number in the

Measure dialog window in Simview, the value will be automatically transferred to the calculator and stored in
one of the memory spaces, starting from the top. In this way, data can be directly transferred to this calculator
for calculation without the need to record them on a piece of paper.
3.8 Option Menu

The Option Menu has the following functions:
Options... Various options can be set here.
Grid Enable or disable the grid display
Color Set the curves to be either Color (default) or Black and White
In the Options... dialog window, when the option Redraw x-axis when loading new data is checked, the
waveform will be redrawn with the new x-axis range when new data is loaded. If this option is not checked, the
x-axis range will be unchanged.
Also in the Options... dialog window, the right mouse action can be set to either Show menu, Pan, or Zoom.
3.9 Label Menu

The Label Menu has the following functions:
Text Place text on the screen
Line Draw a line
Dotted Line Draw a dotted line
Arrow Draw a line with arrow
To draw a line, first select Line from the Label menu. Then click the left mouse at the position where the line
begins, and drag the mouse while keeping the left button pressed. Dotted lines and lines with arrows are drawn
in the same way.
If one is in the Zoom or Measure mode, and wishes to edit a text or a label, one should first escape from the
Zoom/Measure mode by selecting Escape in the View menu.
3.10 Settings Menu

The Settings Menu has the following functions:
Re-Load Settings Re-load the settings from the .ini file and apply to the current display
Save Settings Save the current settings to a file with the same file name but with the .ini extension
Save Temporary Settings Save the current settings temporarily. The temporary settings are not saved to
any files, and are discarded when the document is closed.
Load Temporary Settings Load the temporary settings and apply to the current display
Add to Favorites Save the current settings as a favorite. When saving a favorite, one can choose to save
the following settings: line color and thickness, text font, Log/dB/FFT display
settings, and x and y axis ranges.
Manage Favorites Manage the favorites
When Simview loads a data file (.txt or .smv file), if the corresponding .ini file exists, it will load the settings in
the .ini file.
The functions Load Temporary Settings and Save Temporary Settings are used in situations where one wants to
save the settings temporarily and uses it shortly after. For example, when comparing one waveform with
another, one can first save the temporary settings when displaying the first waveform. Then display the second
waveform and load the temporary settings.
Favorites are a convenient way of storing particular graph settings to be used later. For example, assume that
Simview shows two screens, with the top screen displaying V1 in the red color and with certain x-axis and y-
axis ranges, and the bottom screen displaying V2 in the blue color with its own y-axis range. If this settings is
likely to be used again in the future, the settings can be saved as a favorite and used later.
To apply a favorite to the current display, go to the Settings menu and choose the favorite from the list. Note that
when applying the favorite, the number of screens currently on display must be the same as the number of
screen in the favorite.

3.11 Exporting Data
FFT results can be saved to a text file. Both simulation results (*.txt) and FFT results (*.fft) are in text format
and can be edited using a text editor (such as Microsoft NotePad), or exported to other software (such as
Microsoft Excel).
For example, to load a simulate result file chop-1q.txt in Microsoft Excel, follow these steps:
In Microsoft Excel, select Open from the File menu. Open the file chop-1q.txt.
In the dialog window Text Import Wizard - Step 1 of 3, under Original data type, choose Delimited.
Click on Next.
In the dialog window Text Import Wizard - Step 2 of 3, under Delimiters, choose Space. Click on Next.
In the dialog window Text Import Wizard - Step 3 of 3, under Column data format, choose General.
Click on Finish.

4
Power Circuit Components
The following chapters provide the detailed information of the PSIM library elements. This chapter focuses on
the Power circuit components.
4.1 Resistor-Inductor-Capacitor Branches

PSIM provides several combinations of resistor, inductor, capacitor networks in the element library.
Individual resistor, inductor, and capacitor. These are multi-level models. Level-1 is basic component.
Level-2 includes parasitic and leakage elements as lumped components in equivalent circuits.
Combined R-L-C series branch
Symmetrical three-phase branches of resistor, inductor, capacitor, and their combinations
User can define initial conditions of inductor currents and capacitor voltages for individual component. But the
initial inductor currents and capacitor voltages for three-phase branches are all set at zero.
4.1.1 Individual Resistor

Image:
Attributes of Level-1 Model:
Parameters Description
Resistance Resistance, in Ohm
Voltage Rating Voltage rating of the component, in V, for Level 2 model only.
Current Flag Flag for branch current waveform display.
If this flag is set 1, the current flowing through this component will be saved to
display in SIMVIEW and Runtime Graphs.
The current is positive when it flows into the dotted terminal of the branch.
Voltage Rating Voltage rating of the component, in V.
Power Rating Power rating of the component, in W.
Inductance ESL Equivalent series inductance (ESL), in H.
Parallel Capacitance Equivalent parallel parasitic capacitance, in F.
If this flag is set 1, the current flowing through this component will be saved to
display in SIMVIEW and Runtime Graphs.
The current is positive when it flows into the dotted terminal of the branch.
Chapter 4: Power Circuit Components 41

Equivalent Circuit:
Level 2 Model
Level 1 Model
Cp Parallel
Capacitance
ESL
4.1.2 Individual Inductor

Image:
Inductance Inductance, in H.
Initial Current Initial inductor current, in A
Current Flag Flag for branch current waveform display
Attributes of Level-2 Model
Inductance Inductance, in H.
Peak Current Rating Peak current rating of the inductor, in A.
Series Resistance Equivalent series resistance (ESR), in Ohm.
Parallel Resistance Leakage resistance in parallel with the inductor, in Ohm.
Parallel Capacitance Parallel parasitic capacitance, in F.
Equivalent Circuit:
Level 2 Model
Level 1 Model
Rp
Parallel
Resistance
Cp
Parallel
Capacitance
L ESR
4.1.3 Individual and Electrolytic Capacitors

Images:
Capacitor Capacitor (Electrolytic)
42 Chapter 4: Power Circuit Components

Capacitance Capacitance, in F.
Initial Voltage Initial capacitor voltage, in V
Current Flag Flag for branch current display
Capacitance Capacitance, in F.
Voltage Rating Voltage rating of the component, in V.
RMS Current Rating RMS current rating, in A.
Resistance ESR Equivalent series resistance (ESR), in Ohm.
Inductance ESL Equivalent series inductance (ESL), in H.
Leakage Resistance Leakage resistance, in Ohm.
Initial Voltage Initial capacitor voltage, in V
Current Flag Flag for branch current waveform display
Equivalent Circuit:
Level 1 Model Level 2 Model
Parallel
Rp
Resistance
Capacitor
ESR C ESL
Parallel
Rp Resistance
Capacitor (Electrolytic)
ESR C ESL
4.1.4 Combined R-L-C Branch

Image:
Attributes for R-L-C Branch:
Inductance Inductance, in H
Capacitance Capacitance, in F
Initial Cap. Voltage Initial capacitor voltage, in V
Note: For combined R-L-C brand, at least one of the parameters R, L, or C has to be a non-zero value.

4.1.5 Three-Phase R, L, C, and Combination Branches
Images:
R3 L3 C3 RL3 RC3 RLC3
Attributes for Three-Phase R, L, C, and Combination Branches:
Inductance Inductance, in H
Capacitance Capacitance, in F
Current Flag_A; Current Current flags for Phase A, B, and C of three-phase branches, respectively.
Flag_B; Current Flag_C If this flag is set 1, the current flowing through this branch will be saved to the file
for display in SIMVIEW. It will also be available for display in the runtime graphs
(under Simulate >> Runtime Graphs).
The dot in the image indicates phase A. The current is positive when it flows into
the dotted terminal of the branch.
4.1.6 3-Phase AC Cable

The 3-phase ac cable model takes into account inductive coupling and capacitances between phases.
Image:
A a
B b
C c
N n
Attributes:
Cable Length Length of the cable, in m
Operating Frequency Operating frequency of the cable, in Hz
Resistance Rd Positive sequence resistance Rd of the cable, in Ohm
Reactance Xd Positive sequence reactance Xd of the cable, in Ohm
Resistance Ro Zero sequence resistance Ro of the cable, in Ohm
Reactance Xo Zero sequence reactance Xo of the cable, in Ohm
Capacitance Co Zero sequence capacitance Co of the cable, in F
In the image, the bottom node N or n on each side of the cable is the cable screen. It is generally connected to
the ground on the side of the cable.
The cable parameters should be available from manufacturers datasheet. When they are not available,
assuming that each phase of the cable has a resistance of R, self inductance of L, and mutual inductance of M,
the positive sequence and zero sequence parameters can be calculated as follows:

Rd = R
Xd = ( L M )
Ro = R
Xo = ( L + 2 M )
where =2f and f is the operating frequency in Hz.
4.1.7 Rheostat
A rheostat is a resistor with a tap.
Image:
t
k m
Attributes:
Total Resistance Total resistance of the rheostat R (between Node k and m), in Ohm
Tap Position (0 to 1) The tap position Tap. The resistance between Node k and t is: R*Tap.
Current Flag Flag for the current that flows into Node k.
4.1.8 Saturable Inductor

A saturable inductor takes into account the saturation effect of the magnetic core.
Image:
Attributes:
Current vs. Inductance Characteristics of the current versus the inductance (i1, L1), (i2, L2), etc.
Current Flag Flag for the current display
The nonlinear B-H curve is represented by piecewise linear approximation. Since the flux density B is
proportional to the flux linkage and the magnetizing force H is proportional to the current i, the B-H curve can
be represented by the -i curve instead, as shown below.
(B)
3
2 Inductance L = / i
1
i1 i2 i3 i (H)
The inductance is defined as: L = / i, the ratio of vs. i at each point. The saturation characteristics are defined
by a series of data points as: (i1, L1), (i2, L2), (i3, L3), etc.

Note that the defined saturation characteristics must be such that the flux linkage is monotonically increasing.
That is, L1*i1 < L2*i2 < L3*i3, etc.
Also, similar to the saturation characteristics in the real world, the slope of each linear segment must be
monotonically decreasing as the current increases.
In certain situations, circuits that contain saturable inductors may fail to converge. Connecting a very small
capacitor across the saturable inductor may help the convergence.
4.1.9 Coupled Inductors

Coupled inductors with two, three, four, five, and six branches are provided.
Images:
2-branch 3-branch 4-branch 5-branch 6-branch
In the images, the small circle indicates the input terminal of inductor 1 while the small square, triangle, + sign,
x sign, and * sign indicate the input terminal of inductor 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Attributes:
Lii (self) Self inductance of the inductor i, in H
Lij (mutual) Mutual inductance between Inductor i and j, in H
Initial Current ii Initial current in Inductor i
Current Flag_i Flag for the current printout in Inductor i
The following shows a coupled inductor with two branches.
+ v1 -
i1
i2
+ v2 -
Let L11 and L22 be the self-inductances of Branch 1 and 2, and L12 and L21 the mutual inductances, the branch
voltages and currents have the following relationship:
v1 L 11 L 12 d i1
= ------
v2 L 21 L 22 dt i
2
The mutual inductances between two windings are assumed to be always equal, i.e., L12 = L21.
In the SPICE software, coupled inductors are defined by the self inductances and the coupling factors. For the
coupled inductor with two branches, the coupling factor K is defined as:

L 12
K = ----------------------
-
L 11 L 22
The mutual inductance is then calculated as:
L 12 = K L 11 L 22
The coupling factor has a value between 0 and 1. When the coupling factor is 1, it is perfect coupling. Note that
in PSIM, perfect coupling is not allowed. That is, the coupling factor cannot be equal to 1.
Also, when the leakage inductances are ignored (i.e. the coupling factor is close to 1), the self inductances are
proportional to the turns ratio squared. That is, if Branch 1 has N1 turns, and Branch 2 has N2 turns:
2
L1 N
----- = ----12-
L2 N2
Example:
Two mutually coupled inductors have the self inductances and mutual inductance as: L11 = 1 mH, L22 = 1.1 mH,
and L12 = L21 = 0.9 mH. The coupling factor is: K = 0.86. The specification of this element will be:
L11 (self) 1m
L12 (mutual) 0.9m
L22 (self) 1.1m
4.1.10 Nonlinear Elements

The following elements with nonlinear voltage-current relationship are provided:
- Resistance-type [v = f(i)]
- Resistance-type with additional input x [v = f(i,x)]
- Conductance-type [i = f(v)]
- Conductance-type with additional input x [i = f(v,x)]
The additional input x must be a voltage signal.
Images:
Nonlinear element Nonlinear element (with additional input)

Input x
Attributes:
For resistance-type elements:
Expression f(i) or f(i,x) Expression of v in terms of i and x [v = f(i) or v = f(i,x)]
Expression df/di The derivative of the voltage v versus current i, i.e. df(i)/di
Initial Value io The initial value of the current i
Lower Limit of i The lower limit of the current i
Upper Limit of i The upper limit of the current i

For conductance-type elements:
Expression f(v) or f(v,x) Expression of i in terms of v and x [i = f(v) or i = f(v,x)]
Expression df/dv Derivative of the current i versus voltage v, i.e. df(v)/dv
Initial Value vo The initial value of the voltage v
Lower Limit of v The lower limit of the voltage v
Upper Limit of v The upper limit of the voltage v
A good initial value and lower/upper limits will help the convergence of the solution.
Example: Nonlinear Diode
The nonlinear element (NONI) in the circuit above models a nonlinear diode. The diode current is expressed as
a function of the voltage as: i = 10-14 * (e 40*v-1). In PSIM, the specifications of the nonlinear element will be:
Expression f(v) 1e-14*(EXP(40*v)-1)

Expression df/dv 40e-14*EXP(40*v)
Initial Value vo 0
Lower Limit of v -1e3
Upper Limit of v 1
4.2 Switching Devices

There are two basic types of switching devices in PSIM. One is the switchmode type. It operates either in the
cut-off region (off state) or saturation region (on state). The other is the linear type. It can operates in either cut-
off, linear, or saturation region.
Switches in switchmode include the following:
- Diode and DIAC
- Thyristor and TRIAC
- Self-commutated switches:
- npn and pnp bipolar junction transistor (BJT)
- Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT)
- n-channel and p-channel Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET)
- MOSFET with fixed on-resistance RDS(on)
- MOSFET with on-resistance RDS(on) as a function of junction temperature
- Gate-Turn-Off switch (GTO)
- Bi-directional switch
Switchmode switch models are ideal. Both turn-on and turn-off transients are neglected.
A switch has an on-resistance of 10. When there is no R-L-C branch connected in parallel with the switch, a
10-M resistor will be connected across the switch internally. This resistance can be viewed as the off-state
resistance. In certain cases, this resistance may need to be modified. To change the off-state resistance to, for

example, 100 M, connect a 100-M in parallel to the switch. Since PSIM sees that there is already a resistor
in parallel to the switch, the 10-M resistor will not be added.
Snubber circuits are not required for switches.
Linear switches include the following:
- 3-State npn and pnp bipolar junction transistor
- 3-State n-channel and p-channel MOSFET
4.2.1 Diode
The conduction of a diode or LED is determined by circuit operating conditions. PSIMs diode has 2 model
levels:
Level -1 Model: A diode is turned on when the positive bias voltage is greater than the threshold voltage,
and is turned off when the current drops to zero.
Level-2 Model: Includes leads parasitic inductance and reverse recovery parameters.
Image:
+ v -
Attributes of the Level-1 Model:
Forward Voltage Forward voltage Vd_th, in V. A diode starts to conduct when the positive bias
voltage is greater than Vd_th.
Resistance On-resistance Rd, in Ohm, after it starts to conduct.
Initial Position Flag for the initial diode position. If it is 0, the diode is off. If it is 1, the diode is on.
Current Flag Current flag for diode current display.
Attributes of the Level-2 Model:
Forward Voltage Forward voltage Vd_th, in V. A diode starts to conduct when the positive bias
voltage is greater than Vd_th.
Resistance On-resistance Rd, in Ohm, after it starts to conduct.
Parasitic Inductance Series parasitic inductance, in H
Parallel Capacitance Parallel capacitance between the diode anode and cathode, in F. If the capacitance
value is 0, the capacitor is ignored and is removed from simulation.
Forward Current Forward current Ifwd under test conditions of diode reverse recovery characteristic,
in A.
Peak Reverse Current Peak reverse current Irm under test conditions, in A
Current Slope Current slope dI/dt under test conditions, in A/sec.
Reverse Recovery Time Reverse recovery time trr under test conditions, in sec.
Initial Position Flag for the initial diode position. If it is 0, the diode is off. If it is 1, the diode is on.
Current Flag Current flag for diode current waveform display.

Diode v-i Characteristic:
i
Slope = 1/Rd
0 v
Vd_th
Diode Level-2 Model Reverse Recovery Parameter Definitions:
The reverse recovery time trr consists of two parts: ta and tb. During the period ta, the current increases from 0
to -Irm. Based on JEDEC (Joint Electron Device Engineering Council), tb is defined as the interval from the
time of -Irm to the time when the straight line from -Irm through -0.25*Irm (in red in the diagram) intersects
with the time axis.
For further information on how to use the Level-2 model, please refer to the tutorial "Tutorial - Diode model
with reverse recovery.pdf".
4.2.2 LED
A light-emitting diode (LED) emits light when it conducts. Its v-i characteristic is the same model as diodes
Level-1 model.
Image:
+ v -
Attributes:
Forward Voltage LED forward threshold voltage Vd_th, in V. The LED starts to conduct and emit
light when the positive bias voltage is greater than Vd_th.
Resistance LED on-resistance Rd, in Ohm, after it starts to conduct.
Initial Position Flag for the initial LED position. If the flag is 0, the LED is off. If it is 1, the LED is
on.
Current Flag Current flag for LED current display.

4.2.3 Zener Diode and DIAC
Zener:
A zener diode is modeled by a circuit as shown below.
Images:
Zener Circuit Model
A K A K
VB
Attributes:
Breakdown Voltage Breakdown voltage VB of the zener diode, in V
Forward Threshold Threshold voltage of the forward conduction (from anode to cathode), in V
Voltage
Forward Resistance On resistance of the forward conduction, in Ohm
Current Flag Flag for zener current output (from anode to cathode)
When the zener diode is positively biased, it behaviors as a regular diode. When it is reverse biased, it will block
the conduction as long as the cathode-anode voltage VKA is less than the breakdown voltage VB. When VKA
exceeds VB, the voltage VKA will be clamped to VB.
Note that when the zener is clamped, since the diode is modelled with an on-resistance of 10, the cathode-
anode voltage will in fact be equal to: VKA = VB + 10 * IKA. Therefore, depending on the value of IKA, VKA
will be slightly higher than VB. If IKA is very large, VKA can be substantially higher than VB.
DIAC:
A DIAC is a bi-directional diode. A DIAC does not conduct until the breakover voltage is reached. After that,
the DIAC goes into avalanche conduction, and the conduction voltage drop is the breakback voltage.
Image:
Attributes:
Breakover Voltage Voltage at which breakover occurs and the DIAC begins to conduct, in V
Breakback Voltage Conduction voltage drop, in V
Current Flag Current flag

4.2.4 Thyristor and TRIAC
A thyristor is controlled at turn-on. The turn-off is determined by circuit conditions.
A TRIAC is a device that can conduct current in both directions. It behaviors in the same way as two opposite
thyristors connected in parallel.
Images:
Thyristor TRIAC
A K
Gate
Gate
Attributes:
Voltage Drop Thyristor conduction voltage drop, in V
Holding Current Minimum conduction current below which the device stops conducting and returns to
the OFF state (for thyristor only)
Latching Current Minimum ON state current required to keep the device in the ON state after the
triggering pulse is removed (for thyristor only)
Initial Position Flag for the initial switch position (for thyristor only)
Current Flag Flag for switch current output
Note that for the TRIAC device, the holding current and latching current are set to zero.
There are two ways to control a thyristor or TRIAC. One is to use a gating block, and the other is to use a switch
controller. The gate node of a thyristor or TRIAC must be connected to either a gating block or a switch
controller.
The following examples illustrate the control of a thyristor switch.
Examples: Control of a Thyristor Switch
Gating Block
Alpha
Controller
This circuit on the left uses a switching gating block. The switching gating pattern and the frequency are pre-
defined, and remain unchanged throughout the simulation. The circuit on the right uses an alpha switch
controller. The delay angle alpha, in deg., is specified through the dc source in the circuit.

4.2.5 Transistor
The bipolar junction transistor (BJT) models in PSIM are ideal switching devices. Their behavior is a little bit
different from that of the devices in real life. A BJT switch in PSIM will block reverse voltage (in this sense, it
behaves like a GTO). Also, it is controlled by a voltage signal at the gate node, not a current.
An npn transistor is turned on when the gating signal is a logic high (when a voltage of 1V or higher is applied
to the gate node) and the switch is positively biased (collector-emitter voltage is positive). A pnp transistor is
turned on when the gating signal is a logic low and the switch is negatively biased (collector-emitter voltage is
negative).
Images:
npn pnp
Transistor Transistor
Attributes for npn Transistor and pnp Transistor:
Saturation Voltage The saturation voltage Vce_sat for npn, or Vec_sat for pnp, in V
Initial Position Initial switch position flag (0: off; 1: on)
Current Flag Switch current flag (0: no display; 1: display)
Example: Control of a npn Bipolar Junction Transistor
The circuit on the left uses a gating block, and the one on the right uses an on-off switch controller.
If the switch is controlled by a control circuit signal, as shown in the circuit on the right side, an on-off switch
controller must be used at the gate node.
The following shows another example of controlling the BJT switch. The circuit on the left shows how a BJT
switch is controlled in the real life. In this case, the gating voltage VB is applied to the transistor base drive
circuit through a transformer, and the base current determines the conduction state of the transistor.
This circuit can be modelled and implemented in PSIM as shown on the right. A diode, Dbe, with a conduction
voltage drop of 0.7V, is used to model the pn junction between the base and the emitter. When the base current
exceeds 0 (or a certain threshold value, in which case the base current will be compared to a dc source), the
comparator output will be 1, applying the turn-on pulse to the transistor through the on-off switch controller.

4.2.6 MOSFET
The MOSFET switches consist of an active switch with an anti-parallel diode. The MOSFET is turned on when
the gating signal is a logic high (when a voltage of 1V or higher is applied to the gate node) and the switch is
positively biased (drain-source voltage is positive). It is turned off whenever the gating signal is low or the
current drops to zero.
The p-channel MOSFET is turned on when the gating signal is a logic low and it is negatively biased (drain-
source voltage is negative).
The switches MOSFET (RDS(on)) and p-MOSFET (RDS(on)) have on-resistance as a function of the junction
temperature. In the images of MOSFET (RDS(on)) and p-MOSFET (RDS(on)), the node on top of the gate node
is for defining the junction temperature. A voltage signal at this node will define the junction temperature Tj in
oC.
For example, a voltage value of 25V would mean a junction temperature of 25oC. The on-resistance of the
MOSFET is a function of the junction temperature, as expressed below:
R DS ( on ) = R DS ( on )_ b ( 1 + K T ( T j T j _ b ) )
A switch can be controlled by either a gating block or a switch controller. They must be connected to the gate
(base) node of the switch.
Images:
MOSFET p-MOSFET MOSFET p-MOSFET
(RDS(on)) (RDS(on))
Tj Tj
Attributes for MOSFET and p-MOSFET:
On Resistance The on resistance Rds_on of the MOSFET, in Ohm
Diode Forward Anti-parallel diode forward threshold voltage, in V
Voltage
Diode Resistance Anti-parallel diode on resistance, in Ohm
Initial Position Initial switch position flag for the transistor only (0: off; 1: on)
Current Flag Switch current flag for the whole module (the transistor plus the diode) (0: no
display; 1: display)

Attributes for MOSFET (RDS(on)) and p-MOSFET (RDS(on)):
Tj at Test Junction temperature Tj_b at test, in oC
RDS(on) at Test On-resistance RDS(on)_b at test, in Ohm
Temperature Temperature coefficient KT of the on-resistance, in 1/oC
Coefficient
Diode Forward Anti-parallel diode forward threshold voltage, in V
Voltage
Current Flag Switch current flag for the whole module (the transistor plus the diode)
The following examples illustrate the control of a MOSFET switch.
On-off Controller
The circuit on the left uses a gating block, and the one on the right uses an on-off switch controller. The gating
signal is determined by the comparator output.
4.2.7 IGBT
An IGBT switch consist of an active switch with an anti-parallel diode. It is turned on when the gating signal is
high (when a voltage of 1V or higher is applied to the gate node) and the switch is positively biased (collector-
emitter voltage is positive). It is turned off whenever the gating signal is low or the current drops to zero.
Images:
Attributes:
Saturation Voltage Saturation voltage Vce_sat of the IGBT, in V
Transistor Resistance Transistor on resistance, in Ohm
Diode Forward Voltage Anti-parallel diode forward threshold voltage, in V

Current Flag Switch current flag for the whole module (the transistor plus the diode)
4.2.8 GTO
A GTO switch is a symmetrical device with both forward-blocking and reverse-blocking capabilities.
Images:
Attributes:
Voltage Drop GTO conduction voltage drop, in V
Initial Position Initial switch position flag (0: off; 1: on)
Current Flag Switch current flag (0: no display; 1: display)
4.2.9 Bi-Directional Switches

A bi-directional switch conducts current in both directions.
Three types of bi-directional switches are provided: single-phase switch, three-phase switch, and push button
switch.
Images:
Single switch 3-phase switch Push button switch
Attributes:
Initial Position Initial switch position flag (for single switch only).
Initial Position (for Phase A/B/ Initial switch position for Phase A, or B, or C.
C)
Switch Position Switch position can be either "On" or "Off" (for push button switch only)
Current Flag Switch current flag (for single switch only)
Current Flag (for Phase A/B/C) Switch current flag for Phase A, or B, or C.
In the 3-phase switch image, the phase with a dot is Phase A.
For single and 3-phase bi-directional switches, they are on when the gating signal is high, and are off when the
gating signal is low, regardless of the voltage bias conditions. For the push button switch, the switch position is
set directly from the parameter input.

4.2.10 Linear Switches
Linear switches, which can operate in three states, include npn and pnp BJT, and n-channel and p-channel
MOSFET. BJT devices can operate in either cut-off, linear, or saturation state. MOSFET devices can operate in
either cut-off, active, or ohmic state.
MOSFET (3-state) has 2 level models. Level-1 is the basic MOSFET 3-state model while Level-2 takes the
intrinsic and parasitic components into consideration.
Images:
npn Transistor pnp Transistor MOSFET p-MOSFET
(3-state) (3-state) (3-state) (3-state)
Attributes for npn Transistor (3-state) and pnp Transistor (3-state):
Current Gain beta Transistor current gain , defined as: =Ic/Ib
Bias Voltage Vr Forward bias voltage, in V, between base and emitter for the npn transistor, or
between emitter and base for the pnp transistor.
Vce,sat [or Vec,sat for pnp] Saturation voltage, in V, between collector and emitter for the npn transistor, and
between emitter and collector for the pnp transistor.
Attributes for MOSFET (3-state) and p-MOSFET (3-state) Level-1 Model:
On Resistance On resistance RDS(on) of the MOSFET, in Ohm
Threshold Voltage Vgs(th) Threshold voltage of the gate-to-source voltage, in V, beyond which the MOSFET
starts to conduct.
Transconductance gm Transconductance gm of the MOSFET.
Diode Forward Voltage Forward voltage of the anti-parallel diode, in V
Diode Resistance On resistance of the anti-parallel diode, in Ohm
Attributes for MOSFET (3-state) and p-MOSFET (3-state) Level-2 Model:
Vbreakdown (drain- Maximum drain-source voltage without causing avalanche breakdown, in V.
source)
On Resistance On resistance RDS(on) of the MOSFET, in Ohm
Gate Threshold Voltage Threshold voltage of the gate-to-source voltage, in V, above which, the MOSFET
Vgs(th) starts to conduct.
Internal Gate Resistance Internal gate resistance, in Ohm.
Transconductance gm Transconductance gm of the MOSFET.
Capacitance Cgs Gate-to-source intrinsic capacitance, in F.
Capacitance Cgd Gate-to-drain intrinsic capacitance, in F.

Capacitance Cds Output capacitance between drain and source, in F.
Diode Forward Voltage Forward voltage of the anti-parallel diode, in V
A linear transistor is controlled by the base current Ib. It can operate in one of the three regions: cut-off (off
state), linear, and saturation region (on state).
The properties of a npn transistor in these regions are:
- Cut-off region: Vbe < Vr; Ib = 0; Ic = 0
- Linear region: Vbe = Vr; Ic = Ib; Vce > Vce,sat
- Saturation region: Vbe = Vr; Ic < Ib; Vce = Vce,sat
where Vbe is the base-emitter voltage, Vce is the collector-emitter voltage, and Ic is the collector current.
The properties of a pnp transistor in these regions are:
- Cut-off region: Veb < Vr; Ib = 0; Ic = 0
- Linear region: Veb = Vr; Ic = Ib; Vec > Vee,sat
- Saturation region: Veb = Vr; Ic < Ib; Vec = Vec,sat
where Vee is the emitter-base voltage, Vec is the emitter-collector voltage, and Ic is the collector current.
A linear MOSFET device is controlled by the gate-to-source voltage Vgs. It can operate in one of the three
regions: cut-off (off state), active, and ohmic region (on state).
The properties of a n-channel MOSFET device in these regions are:
- Cut-off region: Vgs < Vgs(th); Id = 0
- Active region: Vgs > Vgs(th) and Vgs - Vgs(th) < Vds; Id = gm(Vgs - Vgs(th))
- Ohmic region: Vgs > Vgs(th) and Vgs - Vgs(th) > Vds; Id = Vds / RDS(on)
where Vgs is the gate-source voltage, Vds is the drain-source voltage, and Id is the drain current.
The properties of a p-channel MOSFET device in these regions are:
- Cut-off region: Vgs > Vgs(th); Id = 0
- Active region: Vgs < Vgs(th) and Vgs - Vgs(th) > Vds; Id = gm(Vgs - Vgs(th))
- Ohmic region: Vgs < Vgs(th) and Vgs - Vgs(th) < Vds; Id = Vds / RDS(on)
Note that for 3-state npn/pnp BJT and n-channel/p-channel MOSFET, the base node (gate node) is a power
node, and must be connected to a power circuit component (such as a resistor or a source). It can not be
connected to a gating block or a switch controller.
Examples: Circuits Using the Linear Transistor Switch
Examples below illustrate the use of linear switches. The circuit on the left is a linear voltage regulator circuit,
and the transistor operates in the linear mode. The circuit on the right is a simple test circuit.
NPN_1
NPN_1

4.2.11 Switch Gating Block
A switch gating block defines the gating pattern of a switch or a switch module. The gating pattern can be
specified either directly (the element is called Gating Block in the library) or in a text file (the element is called
Gating Block (file) in the library).
Note that a switch gating block can be connected to the gate node of a switch ONLY. It can not be connected to
any other elements.
Image:
Attributes:
Frequency Operating frequency of the switch or switch module connected to the gating block, in
Hz
No. of Points Number of switching points (for the Gating Block element only)
Switching Points Switching points, in deg. If the frequency is zero, the switching points is in second. (for
the Gating Block element only)
File for Gating Name of the file that stores the gating table (for the Gating Block (file) element only)
Table
The number of switching points is defined as the total number of switching actions in one period. Each turn-on
or turn-off action is counted as one switching point. For example, if a switch is turned on and off once in one
cycle, the number of switching points will be 2.
For the Gating Block (file) element, the file for the gating table must be in the same directory as the schematic
file. The gating table file has the following format:
n
G1
G2
... ...
Gn
where G1, G2, ..., Gn are the switching points.
Example:
Assume that a switch operates at 2000 Hz and has the following gating pattern in one period:
35 92 175 187 345 357
0 180 360 (deg.)
The specification of the Gating Block element for this switch will be:
Frequency 2000.
No. of Points 6
Switching Points 35. 92. 175. 187. 345. 357.
The gating pattern has 6 switching points (3 pulses). The corresponding switching angles are 35o, 92o, 175o,
187o, 345o, and 357o, respectively.

If the Gating Block (file) element is used instead, the specification will be:
Frequency 2000.
File for Gating Table test.tbl
The file test.tbl will contain the following:
6
35.
92.
175.
187.
345.
357.
4.2.12 Single-Phase Switch Modules

Built-in single-phase diode bridge module and thyristor bridge module are provided. The images and internal
connections of the modules are shown below.
Images:
Diode bridge Thyristor bridge
A+ DC+ 1 3 DC+ DC+ 1 Ct 3 DC+
A+
A+ A+
A-
A-
4 2 A- 4 2
A- DC- DC- DC-
DC-
Ct
Attributes:
Diode Threshold Voltage Threshold voltage of the diode, or forward voltage drop of the thyristor, in V
or Voltage Drop
Diode Resistance On resistance of the diode, in Ohm (for diode bridges only)
Init. Position_i Initial position for Switch i
Current Flag_i Current flag for Switch i
Node Ct at the bottom of the thyristor module is the gating control node for Switch 1. For the thyristor module,
only the gating signal for Switch 1 needs to be specified. The gating signals for other switches will be derived
internally in the program.
Similar to the single thyristor switch, a thyristor bridge can also be controlled by either a gating block or an
alpha controller, as shown in the following examples.
Examples: Control of a Thyristor Bridge
The gating signal for the circuit on the left is specified through a gating block, and the gating signal for the
circuit on the right is provided through an alpha controller. A major advantage of the alpha controller is that the
delay angle alpha of the thyristor bridge, in deg., can be directly controlled.

4.2.13 Three-Phase Switch Modules
The following figure shows three-phase switch modules and the internal circuit connections. A three-phase
voltage source inverter module VSI3 consists of either MOSFET-type or IGBT-type switches. A current source
inverter module CSI3 consists of GTO-type switches, or equivalently IGBT in series with diodes.
Images:
Diode full-wave Thyristor full-wave DC+

Ct
DC+ 1 DC+
A 3 5 DC+ 1 3 5
A
A A
B B
B B
C C
C 2
DC- 4 6 2 C 4 6
DC-
DC-
Ct DC-
Thyristor half-wave (3-phase) Thyristor half-wave 1 Ct

Ct
1 A1 2
A
A
N 2 N
B N
B N
C 3
C
Ct A6 6
Ct
VSI3 (MOSFET or IGBT) VSI3 (MOSFET switches)

DC+
DC+ 1 3 5
A
Ct
B A
B
DC- C C
4 6 2
Ct
DC-
CSI3 CSI3
DC+
DC+ A 1 3 5
Ct
B A
B
C
DC- C
4 6 2
Ct DC-

Attributes for the diode bridge:
Diode Threshold Voltage Threshold voltage drop of the diode, in V
Diode Resistance On resistance of the diode, in Ohm
Attributes for thyristor bridges:
Voltage Drop Conduction voltage drop of the thyristor, in V
Attributes for VSI3 bridge (with MOSFET switches):
On Resistance On resistance of the MOSFET transistor, in Ohm
Diode Threshold Voltage Threshold voltage drop of the diode, in V
Diode Resistance On resistance of the diode, in Ohm
Attributes for VSI3 bridge (with IGBT switches):
Saturation Voltage Saturation voltage Vce_sat of the IGBT transistor, in Ohm
Transistor Resistance On resistance of the IGBT transistor, in Ohm
Diode Threshold Voltage Threshold voltage drop of the anti-parallel diode, in V
Attributes for the CSI3 bridge:
Voltage Drop Forward conduction voltage drop of the switch, in V
Resistance Forward on resistance of the switch, in Ohm
Similar to single-phase modules, only the gating signal for Switch 1 need to be specified for three-phase
modules. Gating signals for other switches will be automatically derived. For the 3-phase half-wave thyristor
bridge, the phase shift between two consecutive switches is 120o. For all other bridges, the phase shift is 60o.
Thyristor bridges can be controlled by an alpha controller. Similarly, voltage/current source inverters can be

controlled by a PWM lookup table controller.
The following examples illustrate the control of three-phase thyristor and voltage source inverter modules.
Example: Control of Three-Phase Thyristor and VSI Modules
Vac PWM Controller
The thyristor circuit on the left uses an alpha controller. For a three-phase circuit, the zero-crossing of the
voltage Vac corresponds to the moment when the delay angle alpha is equal to zero. This signal is used to
provide synchronization to the controller.
The circuit on the right uses a PWM lookup table controller. The PWM patterns are stored in a lookup table in a
text file. The gating pattern is selected based on the modulation index. Other inputs of the PWM lookup table
controller include the delay angle, the synchronization, and the enable/disable signal. A detailed description of
the PWM lookup table controller is given in the Switch Controllers section.
4.3 Transformers
4.3.1 Ideal Transformer

An ideal transformer has no losses and no leakage flux.
Images:
Np Ns Np Ns
The winding with the larger dot is the primary, and the other winding is the secondary.
Attributes:
Np (primary) No. of turns of the primary winding
Ns (secondary) No. of turns of the secondary winding
Since the turns ratio is equal to the ratio of the rated voltages, the number of turns can be replaced by the rated
voltage at each side.

4.3.2 Single-Phase Transformers
Single-phase transformers with 1 or 2 primary windings and 1 to 6 secondary windings are provided, as shown
below.
Images:
2-winding 3-winding 5-winding 6-winding 7-winding 8-winding
s s_1 s_1 s_1 s_1
p s p s p
t p_1 s_2 s_2
p p_1
4-winding 5-winding p_2
p
p_1 s_1 s_1 s_4 s_4
p_2
p_1
p_2 s_2
p_2 s_3 s_6 s_6
In the images, p refers to primary, s refers to secondary, and t refers to tertiary. The winding with the largest dot
is the primary winding or first primary winding. For the multiple winding transformers, the sequence of the
windings is from the top to the bottom. For the transformers with 2 or 3 windings, the attributes are as follows.
Attributes:
Rp (primary); Resistance of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in Ohm
Rs (secondary);
Rt (tertiary)
Lp (pri. leakage); Leakage inductance of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in H (seen from the
Ls (sec. leakage); primary)
Lt (ter. leakage)
Lm (magnetizing) Magnetizing inductance, in H
Np (primary); No. of turns of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding
Ns (secondary);
Nt (tertiary)
All the resistances and inductances are referred to the primary winding side. If there are multiple primary
windings, they are referred to the first primary winding side.
For a transformer with more than 1 primary winding or more than 3 secondary windings, the attributes are as
follows.
Attributes:
Rp_i (primary i); Resistance of the ith primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in Ohm
Rs_i (secondary i)

Lp_i (pri. i leakage); Leakage inductance of the ith primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in H (referred to
Ls_i (sec. i leakage) the first primary winding)
Lm (magnetizing) Magnetizing inductance, in H (seen from the first primary winding)

Np_i (primary i); No. of turns of the ith primary/secondary/tertiary winding
Ns_i (secondary i)
All the resistances and inductances are referred to the first primary winding side.
Modeling of a Transformer:
A transformer is modeled as coupled inductors. For example, a single-phase two-winding transformer is
modeled as two coupled inductors. The equivalent circuit can be shown as:
Rp Lp Rs L s Np : Ns
Primary Lm Secondary
Ideal
In the circuit, Rp and Rs are the primary and secondary winding resistances; Lp and Ls are the primary and
secondary winding leakage inductances; and Lm is the magnetizing inductance. All the values are referred to the
primary side.
Example:
A single-phase two-winding transformer has a winding resistance of 0.002 Ohm and leakage inductance of 1
mH at both the primary and the secondary side (all the values are referred to the primary). The magnetizing
inductance is 100 mH, and the turns ratio is Np:Ns = 220:440. The transformer will be specified as:
Rp (primary) 2m
Rs (secondary) 2m
Lp (primary) 1m
Ls (secondary) 1m
Lm (magnetizing) 100m
Np (primary) 220
Ns (secondary) 440
4.3.3 Three-Phase Transformers

Two-winding and three-winding transformer modules are provided, as shown below. They all have 3-leg cores.
- 3-phase transformer (windings unconnected)
- 3-phase Y/Y and Y/ connected transformers
- 3-phase 3-winding transformer (windings unconnected)
- 3-phase 3-winding Y/Y/ and Y// connected transformers
- 3-phase 3-winding Y/Z1, Y/Z2, /Z1, and /Z2 phase-shifting transformers

Images:
Y/Y Y/D D/D
6-winding (unconnected)
A a A a A a
b a+
B b B b B a-
b+ Winding 2
C c C c C c b-
c+
N n N c-
Y/Y/D Y/D/D 2-winding (unconnected) Winding 1
n Winding 3
a+ (primary)
a a A+
b A- a- A+
A b A b+ A-
B+
c c B+
B B B- b- B- Winding 4
aa aa C+ c+ C+
C C bb C- c- C-
bb
cc cc
Winding 5
N N
3-winding (unconnected) 4-winding (unconnected) Winding 6

A+ a+
A+ a+ A- a-
A- a- B+ b+
B+ b+ B- b-
C+ c+
B- b- C- c-
C+ c+
AA+ aa+
C- c- AA- aa-
BB+ bb+
BB- bb-
aa+ bb+ cc+ CC+ cc+
aa- bb- cc- CC- cc-
Y/Z1 Y/Z2 D/Z1 D/Z2

a A a A a A a
A
B b B b B b B b
C c C c C c C c
N N
Connection diagrams:
a a a a
b b b b
c c c c
Np Ns1 Ns2 Np Ns1 Ns2 Np Ns1 Ns2 Np Ns1 Ns2
Attributes for all transformers except phase-shifting transformers:
Rp (primary); Rs (secondary); Resistance of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in Ohm
Rt (tertiary)
Lp (pri. leakage); Ls (sec. leakage); Leakage inductance of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding, in H
Lt (ter. leakage)
Lm (magnetizing) Magnetizing inductance, in H (seen from the primary side)
Np (primary); Ns (secondary); No. of turns of the primary/secondary/tertiary winding
Nt (tertiary)

Attributes for phase-shifting transformers:
Rp (primary); Rs1 (secondary 1); Resistance of the primary/1st secondary/2nd secondary winding, in
Rs2 (secondary 2) Ohm
Lp (primary leakage); Ls1 Leakage inductance of the primary/1st secondary/2nd secondary

(secondary 1 leakage); Ls2 winding, in H
(secondary 2 leakage)
Lm (magnetizing) Magnetizing inductance, in H (seen from the primary side)
Np (primary); Ns1 (secondary 1); Number of turns of the primary/1st secondary/2nd secondary winding
Ns2 (secondary 2)
In the images, P refers to primary, S refers to secondary, and T refers to tertiary. All resistances and inductances
are referred to the primary or the first primary winding side.
Three-phase transformers are modeled in the same way as single-phase transformers.
For the 3-phase phase-shifting transformers, let the angle be the phase difference between the secondary line
voltage Vab and the primary line voltage VAB. The relationship between the angle and the winding turns are:
For the Y/Z1 transformer:
Ns2 o
sin ( 30 ) o o
--------------------- = -------------------------------
-, 0 30
Ns1 + Ns2 sin ( 30 + )
o
Np 1 V AB
--------------------- = ----------------------------------- ------
-
Ns 1 + Ns 2 2 sin ( 30 + ) V ab
o
For the Y/Z2 transformer:

Ns2 o
sin ( 30 ) o o
--------------------- = ----------------------------------
-, 30 0
Ns1 + Ns2 sin ( 30 + )
o
Np 1 V AB
--------------------- = -------------------------------------- ------
-
Ns 1 + Ns 2 2 sin ( 30 + ) V ab
o
For the Delta/Z1 transformer:

Ns2 sin ( ) o o
--------------------- = ----------------------------------
-, 30 0
Ns 1 + Ns 2 sin ( 60 )
o
Np 3 V AB
--------------------- = -------------------------------------
- ------
-
Ns 1 + Ns 2 2 sin ( 60 ) V ab
o
For the Delta/Z2 transformer:

Ns2 o
sin ( 60 ) o o
--------------------- = -----------------------------------, 60 30
Ns 1 + Ns 2 sin ( )
Np 3 V AB
--------------------- = ------------------------ -------
Ns1 + Ns2 2 sin ( ) V ab

The table below shows typical transformer turns ratios and delay angles.
d Ns2/(Ns1+Ns2) Np/(Ns1+Ns2)*Vab/VAB
(deg) Y/Z1 Y/Z2 /Z1 /Z2 Y/Z1 Y/Z2 /Z1 /Z2
30 0 0.577
20 0.227 0.653
15 0.366 0.707
0 1 1 0 1 1 1
-15 0.366 0.366 0.707 1.225
-20 0.227 0.532 0.653 1.347
-30 0 1 1 0.577 1.732 1.732
-40 0.532 1.347
-45 0.366 1.225
-60 0 1
4.3.4 Three-Phase Transformer with Saturation

A three-phase three-winding transformer that can take into account saturation and residual flux is provided.
Image:
A+ a+
A- a-
B+ b+
B- b-
C+ c+
C- c-
en
Attributes:
Operating Voltage Transformer primary side rms voltage per phase under the circuit operating
(phase) condition, in V
Operating Frequency Operating frequency of the transformer, in Hz
Rp (primary) Resistance of the primary winding, in Ohm
Lp (pri. leakage) Leakage inductance of the primary winding, in H
Rs (secondary) Resistance of the secondary winding, in Ohm (referred to the primary side)
Ls (sec. leakage) Leakage inductance of the secondary winding, in H (referred to the primary side)
Rm (core losses) Resistance that represents transformer core losses, in Ohm
Im vs. Lm Values of the magnetizing current Im (in A) vs. the magnetizing inductance Lm (in
H) that defines the magnetizing characteristics seen from the primary winding
Phase A Residual Flux Phase A residual flux, in per unit value
Phase B Residual Flux Phase B residual flux, in per unit value
Phase C Residual Flux Phase C residual flux, in per unit value
Np (primary) Number of turns of the primary winding
Ns (secondary) Number of turns of the secondary winding

All the resistances and inductances are referred to the primary side.
In the images, p refers to the primary side and s refers to the secondary side. The node en is a control node, to be
connected to a control logic signal. The moment when the signal changes from 0 to 1 indicates the moment that
the transformer is energized.
Note that the operating voltage refers to the voltage per phase in the actual operating condition, not necessarily
the rated voltage. For example, if a transformer rated at 63kV (primary side line-to-line rms) operates under the
rated condition, and if the primary winding is connected in Y, the operating voltage per phase will be 63,000/
3 V. If the primary winding is connected in delta, the operating voltage per phase will be 63,000V. If the same
transformer is connected in delta but the actual operating voltage is only 60,000V, for example, the operating
voltage per phase will be 60,000V instead.
4.4 Magnetic Elements

A set of magnetic elements, including winding, leakage flux path, air gap, linear core, and saturable core, is
provided to model magnetic devices. These elements are the basic building blocks of magnetic equivalent
circuits, and they provide a very powerful and convenient way of modeling any types of magnetic devices.
Different unit systems have been used in the magnetic circuit analysis. The table below shows magnetic
quantities in the SI (System International) and the mixed CGS (Centimeter Gram Second) unit systems, and
their conversion.
Quantity SI Unit CGS Unit CGS-SI Conversion

Flux Weber Maxwell 1 Weber = 108 Maxwell
Flux Density B Tesla Gauss 1 Tesla = 104 Gauss
4 -
1 A*Turns/m = ----------- Oersted
Field Intensity H A*Turns/m Oersted 1000
Magnetomotive Force (mmf) F A*Turns Gilbert 1 A*Turns = 4

------ Gilbert
10
Permeability (in space) 4*10-7 1 4*10-7
4.4.1 Winding
A winding element provides the interface between the electric circuit and the magnetic equivalent circuit.
Image:
M1
E1
E2
M2
Attributes:
Number of Turns No. of turns of the winding
Winding Resistance Winding resistance, in Ohm
This element represents a winding on a magnetic core. The two electric nodes (E1 and E2) are connected to an
electric circuit, while the two magnetic nodes (M1 and M2) are connected to other magnetic elements (such as
leakage flux path, air gap, and magnetic core).

4.4.2 Leakage Flux Path
This element models the flow path of the leakage flux.
Image:
M1 M2
Attributes:
Inductance Factor AL Inductance factor AL, defined as the inductance per turn squared
Resistance for Losses Resistance R, in Ohm, that represents the losses due to the leakage flux.
Current Flag Display flag of the current that flows through the resistor R
The resistance R represents the losses due to the leakage flux.
Assuming that the mmf (magnetomotive force) applied across the leakage flux path is F, the electric equivalent
circuit of the leakage flux path is as follows:
+ i
AL
F
R
-
The mmf, in the form of a voltage source, applies across the capacitor (the capacitance is AL) and the resistor R.
Let the current flowing through this branch be i, and the rms value be Irms, the relationship between the losses
due to the leakage flux and the resistance R is:
2
P loss = I rms R
4.4.3 Air Gap

The image and attributes of an air gap element are as follows.
Image:
M1 M2
The input parameters of the air gap can be defined in two ways. One is to define the air gap length and the cross
section area, and the other is to define the inductance factor AL. They are as follows.
Attributes:
For the element Air Gap:
Air Gap Length The length of the air gap, lg, in m

Cross Section Area Cross section of the air gap, Ac, in m2
Resistance for Losses Resistance R, in ohm, that represents the losses due to the air gap fringing effect
For the element Air Gap (AL):
Inductance Factor AL Inductance factor AL, defined as the inductance per turn squared
Resistance for Losses Resistance R, in ohm, that represents the losses due to the air gap fringing effect
The resistance R represents the losses due to the air gap fringing effect. Assuming that the mmf (magnetomotive
force) applied across the air gap is F, the electric equivalent circuit of the air gap is as follows:
+ i
AL
F
R
-
The mmf, in the form of a voltage source, applies across the capacitor (the capacitance has the value of the
inductance factor AL) and the resistor R. For the element Air Gap, the inductance factor can be calculated from
the air gap length and the cross section area as:
o Ac
A L = --------------
-
lg
where o= 4107.
The losses on the resistor represents the losses due to the fringing effect, which can be expressed as:
2
P loss = I rms R
where Irms is the rms value of the current i flowing through the resistor.
4.4.4 Linear Core

This element represents a linear loss less core.
Image:
M1 M2
Attributes:
Inductance Factor AL Inductance factor AL of the core, defined as the inductance per turn squared
If the length of the core is Llength and the cross section area is Ac, the inductance factor AL is expressed as:
o r Ac
A L = -------------------------
L length

where r is the relative permeability of the core material.
4.4.5 Saturable Core

This element models a magnetic core with saturation and hysteresis.
Image:
C1
M1 M2
Attributes:
Inductance Factor AL Inductance factor AL of the core, defined as the inductance per turn squared
Resistance for Losses Resistance R, in Ohm, that represents the core losses
Coefficient phi_sat Coefficient sat for the core B-H curve, in Weber
Coefficient K1 Coefficient K1 for the core B-H curve
Coefficient Kexp1 Coefficient Kexp1 for the core B-H curve
Coefficient K2 Coefficient K2 for the core B-H curve
Coefficient Kexp2 Coefficient Kexp2 for the core B-H curve
Initial Flux phi_o Initial flux o of the core, in Weber
Current Flag Display flag of the electric current that flows through the resistor R. If the rms value
of the current is Irms, the core losses can be calculated as: Pcore_loss = Irms2 * R.
In the element image, the nodes M1 and M2 are the two nodes that connect the core to other magnetic elements
(such as winding, flux leakage path, air gap, etc.). The node marked with a dot is Node M2. Node C1 is a control
output node, which shows the flux (in Weber) flowing through the core, from Node M2 to M1.
The initial flux of the core, o, is the flux flowing from Node M2 to M1 at the beginning, corresponding to the
field intensity H = 0. The initial flux density Bo can be calculated as: Bo = o/Ac (where Ac is the core cross
section area), and the initial mmf Fo is: Fo = o/AL.
A differential voltage probe connected between Node M2 to M1 will measure the mmf (in ampere*turn) applied
to the core.
The coefficients sat, K1, Kexp1, K2, and Kexp2 are used to fit the B-H curve of an actual magnetic material. A
good initial guess of sat is the maximum flux of the B-H curve in deep saturation. To calculate this flux,
multiply the corresponding flux density B by the cross section area of the core. Coefficient K1 usually varies
between 0.7 and 1, depending on the core material. Coefficient Kexp1 mainly affects the rate of the core
saturation, and is in the range between 10 and 200 (10 for low permeability ferrite, and 200 for metglas).
The coefficients K2 and Kexp2 are used in very rare occasions, such as for ferroresonant regulators. They are
normally set as follows to keep them from affecting the B-H curve:
K2 > 2
Kexp2 > 20
A tutorial on how to define the core coefficients is provided in the "doc" sub-folder in the PSIM directory. Also,
a program is provided to plot the B-H curve of the core given a set of coefficients. To launch this program, in
PSIM, go to Utilities >> B-H Curve.

4.5 Other Elements
4.5.1 Operational Amplifier

Two types of operational amplifier (op. amp.) models are provided: ideal op. amp. model, and non-ideal op.
amp. model (Level-1 model).
Note that the ideal op. amp. model works in the negative feedback mode but does not work in the positive
feedback mode. The non-ideal op. amp. model does not have such a restriction.
4.5.1.1 Ideal Operational Amplifier

Three ideal op. amp. elements are provided: Op. Amp., Op. Amp. (ground), and Op. Amp. (ground/inverted). An
ideal op. amp. is modelled using power circuit elements, as shown below.
Images:
Op. Amp. Op. Amp. (ground) Op. Amp. (ground/inverted)
V- V+
V-
Vo Vo Vo
V+ V+ V-
gnd gnd
Circuit Model of the Op. Amp. Vo
V+ Ro
V- Ao*(V+ - V-) Vs- Vs+
gnd
where
V+; V- - noninverting and inverting input voltages
Vo - output voltage
Ao - op. amp. dc gain (Ao is set to 100,000.)
Ro - output resistance (Ro is set to 80 Ohms)
Attributes:
Voltage Vs+ Upper voltage source level of the op. amp.
Voltage Vs- Lower voltage source levels of the op. amp.
The difference between the element Op. Amp. and Op. Amp. (ground) or Op. Amp. (ground/inverted) is that, for
the Op. Amp. element, the reference ground of the op. amp. model is connected to the power ground, whereas
for Op. Amp. (ground) or Op. Amp. (ground/inverted), the reference ground node of the model is accessible and
can be floating.
Note that the image of an op. amp. is similar to that of a comparator. For the op. amp., the inverting input is at
the upper left and the noninverting input is at the lower left. For the comparator, it is the opposite.
Example: A Boost Power Factor Correction Circuit
The figure below shows a boost power factor correction circuit. The PI regulators of both the inner current loop
and the outer voltage loop are implemented using op. amp.

Comparator
4.5.1.2 Non-Ideal Operational Amplifier

As compared to the ideal op. amp. model, the non-ideal op. amp. model, also referred to as Level-1 op. amp.
model, includes the following characteristics in the model:
- Op. amp. bandwidth
- Output current limit
The non-ideal op. amp. is modelled using power circuit elements, and similar to the ideal op. amp., is treated as
a power element in PSIM.
Two non-ideal op. amp. elements are provided: Op. Amp. (level-1) and Op. Amp. (ground) (level-1). The
difference between these two elements is that, for Op. Amp. (level-1), the reference ground of the op. amp.
model is connected to the power ground, whereas for Op. Amp. (ground) (level-1), the reference ground node of
the model is accessible and can be floating.
The non-ideal op. amp. images have the number "1" at the upper right corner, as shown below.
Images:
Op. Amp. (level-1) Op. Amp. (ground) (level-1)

V-
V-
Vo Vo
V+ V+
gnd
Attributes:
Input Resistance Rin Input resistance of the op. amp., in Ohm
DC Gain Ao DC gain of the op. amp.
Unit Gain Frequency Frequency at which the op. amp. gain is 1, in Hz.
Output Resistance Ro Output resistance of the op. amp., in Ohm
Maximum Output Maximum current that the op. amp. output can provide, in A
Current
Voltage Vs+ Upper voltage source level of the op. amp.
Voltage Vs- Lower voltage source levels of the op. amp.
The figure below shows the definition of the dc gain Ao and the unit gain frequency.

Open-Loop
Gain Av Ao
(dB)
Unit gain frequency
0
f (Hz)
4.5.2 TL431 Shunt Regulator

The image of the TL431 shunt regulator is shown as below.
Image:
Cathode
Reference
Anode
The TL431 regulator maintains the reference node voltage to be around 2.495V. In this model, the limited
bandwidth of the TL431 is modelled. That is, the ac frequency response of the TL431 model resembles the
following figure from the datasheet.
Test Circuit
4.5.3 Opto-Coupler
The image and parameters of a opto-coupler are shown below.
Image:
id ic

Attributes:
Current Transfer Ratio The current transfer ratio CTR between the transistor current ic and the diode
current id, that is, CTR = ic/id.
Diode Resistance Diode resistance Rd, in Ohm. Note that the resistance must be greater than 0.
Diode Threshold The forward diode threshold voltage Vd_th, in V
Voltage
Transistor Vce_sat The transistor saturation voltage Vce_sat, in V
Transistor-side Capacitance Cp across the collector and emitter of the transistor, in F
Capacitance
These parameters can either be read directly from the manufacturer datasheet, or can be calculated from the
datasheet information. Take the Motorola optocoupler 4N25 as an example. From the datasheet, we can read the
current transfer ratio and the transistor saturation voltage as:
CTR = 70% = 0.7; Vce_sat = 0.15 V
From the "LED Forward Voltage versus Forward Current" characteristics on the datasheet, one can calculate the
diode resistance Rd and the threshold voltage Vd_th. We assume that the diode forward voltage is approximated
by a straight line. That is,
vd = Vd_th + Rd * id
With TA = 25oC, we can obtain two readings from the curve: id = 10 mA and vd = 1.15 V; id = 40 mA and vd =
1.3 V. Based on these two points, we can calculate Rd and Vd_th as: Rd = 5 Ohm; Vd_th = 1.1 V.
The optocoupler model does not take into account the delay, but it does model the turn-on/turn-off transient
through the capacitor Cp across the collector and emitter of the transistor. The capacitance value can be obtained
from the fall time tfall and the switching time test condition as:
t fall
C p = ------------------
2.2 R L
where RL is the load resistor in the switching time test circuit. For 4N25, for example, from the datasheet, we
can obtain: tfall = 1.3 s, and RL = 100 Ohm. The capacitance is calculated as: Cp = 6 nF.
4.5.4 dv/dt Block

A dv/dt block has the same function as the differentiator in the control circuit, except that it is for the power
circuit.
Image:
The output of the dv/dt block is equal to the derivative of the input voltage versus time. It is calculated as:
V in ( t ) V in ( t t )
V o = --------------------------------------------------
t
where Vin(t) and Vin(t-t) are the input values at the current and previous time step, and t is the simulation time
step.

4.5.5 Relays
Two relay blocks with one normally open (NO) switch and one normally closed (NC) switch are provided.
Images:
Relay (1 NO 1 NC) Relay (1 NO 1 NC changeover)
Attributes:
Rated Coil Voltage Rated voltage of the relay coil, in V
Coil Resistance Resistance of the coil, in Ohm
Operate Voltage Voltage at which the relay will operate, in V
Release Voltage Voltage at which the relay will return to the default position, in V
Operate Time Time from the moment the operate voltage is reached to the moment the switches
operate, in sec.
Release Time Time from the moment the release voltage is reached to the moment the switches
return to the default positions, in sec.
The relays have one normally open switch and one normally closed switch. When a dc voltage is applied to the
relay coil in the polarity as shown in the image, if the voltage reaches the Operate Voltage, after a time delay
defined by the Operate Time, the NO switch will be closed, and the NC switch will be opened.
When the coil voltage reduces to the Release Voltage, after a time delay defined by the Release Time, the two
switches will return to their default positions.
4.6 Motor Drive Module

The Motor Drive Module is an add-on module to the basic PSIM program. It provides machine models and
mechanical load models for motor drive system studies.
The Motor Drive Module includes electric machines as described in this section, and mechanical elements and
speed/torque/position sensors as described in Section 4.9.
4.6.1 Reference Direction of Mechanical Systems

In a motor drive system, in order to formulate equations for the mechanical system, a position notation needs to
be defined. Take the following motor drive system as an example:
The system consists of two induction machines, IM1 and IM2, connected back-to-back. One operates as a
motor, and the other as a generator. From the point of view of the first machine IM1, the mechanical equation
can be written as:

d m
( J 1 + J 2 ) --------- = T em 1 T em 2
dt
where J1 and J2 are the moment of inertia, and Tem1 and Tem2 are the developed torques of the machine IM1 and
IM2, respectively.
From the point of view of the second machine IM2, however, the mechanical equation can be written as:
d m
( J 1 + J 2 ) --------- = T em 2 T em 1
dt
These two equations are equally valid, but will produce opposite mechanical speed.
In order to avoid this ambiguity, in PSIM, the concept "reference direction" is used in the mechanical system so
that the mechanical equation can be uniquely defined.
In a mechanical system, one element is designated as the master unit (this element is considered to operate in
the master mode), and the rest of the elements are in the slave mode. Elements that can be master units are:
Electric machines, mechanical-to-electrical interface blocks, and gear boxes.
The master unit defines the reference direction of the mechanical system. The direction is define as the direction
from the shaft node of the master unit, along the shaft, to the rest of the mechanical system.
Once the reference direction of the mechanical system is defined, the speed and torque reference of the
mechanical system can be defined. For example, if we use the right-hand method, with the thumb pointing in
the reference direction of the mechanical system, by rotating the right hand, the fingers will point to the positive
direction of the speed and the torque.
Moreover, each mechanical element has its own reference direction. The following diagram shows the reference
direction of each mechanical element, as indicated by the arrow:
Machines: Mechanical Loads: Encoders:
Speed Sensor: Torque Sensor: Gear Box: Mechanical-Electrical

Interface Block:
The reference direction of each element and the reference direction of the overall mechanical system determine
how the element interacts with the mechanical system.
For example, if the reference direction of a machine is along the same direction as the reference direction of the
mechanical system, the developed torque of the machine will contribute to the shaft rotation in the positive
direction. However, if the reference direction of the machine is opposite to that of the mechanical system, the
developed torque will contribute to the shaft rotation in the negative direction.
In the two-machine example above, using the notation of the "reference direction", if we define the machine
IM1 as the master unit, the reference direction of the overall mechanical system will be from left to right, as
shown below. Based on this direction, the machine IM1 will be along the reference direction, and the machine
IM2 will be opposite to the reference direction. This leads to the equivalent circuit of the mechanical system as

shown on the right.
Equivalent Circuit
Reference direction
Master Unit (J1+J2)*dWm/dt = Tem1 - Tem2
Similarly, if we define the machine IM2 as the master unit, the reference direction of the overall mechanical
system will be from right to left, as shown below. Based on this direction, the machine IM1 will be opposite to
the reference direction, and the machine IM2 will be along the reference direction. This leads to the equivalent
circuit of the mechanical system as shown on the right.
Master Unit
Equivalent Circuit
Reference direction (J1+J2)*dWm/dt = Tem2 - Tem1
The following shows another mechanical system with sensors and loads connected in different ways.
Master Reference direction of the mechanical system

Unit
Load 1 Speed Torque Load 2 Speed Torque

TL1 Sensor 1 Sensor 1 TL2 Sensor 2 Sensor 2
In this mechanical system, the machine on the left is the master unit. The reference direction of the mechanical
system is from left to the right along the mechanical shaft. Comparing this direction with the reference direction
of each element, Load 1, Speed Sensor 1, and Torque Sensor 1, will be along the reference direction, and Load
2, Speed Sensor 2, and Torque Sensor 2 will be opposite to the reference direction of the mechanical system.
Therefore, if the speed of the machine is positive, Speed Sensor 1 reading will be positive, and Speed Sensor 2
reading will be negative.
Similarly, the two constant-torque mechanical loads, with the amplitudes of TL1 and TL2, interact with the
machine in different ways. Load 1 is along the reference direction, and the loading torque of Load 1 to the
master machine will be TL1. On the other hand, Load 2 is opposite to the reference direction, and the loading
torque of Load 2 to the machine will be -TL2.

4.6.2 Induction Machines
Linear and nonlinear models are provided for squirrel-cage and wound-rotor induction machines. The linear
model is further divided into general type and symmetrical type. This section describes the linear models.
Four linear models are provided:
- Symmetrical 3-phase squirrel-cage induction machine
- General 3-phase squirrel-cage induction machine
- Symmetrical 3-phase wound-rotor induction machine
- General 3-phase wound-rotor induction machine
The images and parameters are shown as follows.
Images:
Squirrel-cage Squirrel-cage
Squirrel-cage (unconnected)
(with neutral)
as as as+
as-
bs bs bs+
bs-
cs cs cs+
cs-
ns
Wound-rotor
Wound-rotor (unconnected)
as+
as as-
bs+
bs
bs-
cs+
cs
cs-
ns
cr nr ar- br- cr-
ar br ar+ br+ cr+
Attributes:
Rs (stator) Stator winding resistance, in Ohm
Ls (stator) Stator winding leakage inductance, in H
Rr (rotor) Rotor winding resistance referred to the stator side, in Ohm
Lr (rotor) Rotor winding leakage inductance referred to the stator side, in H
Ns/Nr Turns Ratio Stator and rotor winding turns ratio (for wound-rotor machine only)
No. of Poles Number of poles P of the machine (an even integer)
Moment of Inertia Moment of inertia J of the machine, in kg*m2
Torque Flag Output flag for internal torque Tem
Master/Slave Flag Master/slave flag of the machine (1: master; 0: slave)
All the parameters are referred to the stator side.
For more details on the definition and use of the master/slave flag, refer to Section 4.6.1.
The models of the squirrel-cage induction machine with and without the neutral are the same internally.

The operation of a 3-phase induction machine is described by the following equations:
d- d
v abc, s = R s i abc, s + L s -----
dt i abc, s
+ M sr ------ i abc, r
dt
d- T d
v abc, r = R r i abc, r + L r -----
dt i abc, r
+ M sr ------ i abc, s
dt
where
v a, s v a, r i a, s i a, r
v abc, s = v b, s v abc, r = v b, r i abc, s = i b, s i abc, r = i b, r
v c, s v c, r i c, s i c, r
For squirrel-cage machines, va,r = vb,r = vc,r= 0. The parameter matrices are defined as:
Rs 0 0 Rr 0 0
Rs = 0 Rs 0 Rr = 0 Rr 0
0 0 Rs 0 0 Rr
M sr M sr M sr M sr
L s + M sr ------- ------- L r + M sr ------- -------
2 2 2 2
M M M M
Ls = sr
------
- L s + M sr sr
------
- Lr = sr
------
- L r + M sr sr
------
-
2 2 2 2
M sr M sr M sr M sr
------
- ------
- L s + M sr ------
- ------
- L r + M sr
2 2 2 2
2 2
cos cos + ------ cos ------
3 3
M sr = M sr cos 2
------ cos
2
cos + ------
3 3
2 2
cos + ------ cos ------ cos
3 3
where Msr is the mutual inductance between the stator and rotor windings, and is the mechanical angle. The
mutual inductance is related to the magnetizing inductance as:
3
L m = --- M sr
2
The mechanical equation is expressed as:
d
J --------m- = T em T L
dt
where the developed torque Tem is defined as:
P T d
T em = --- i abc, s ------ M sr i abc, r
2 d
For a symmetrical squirrel-cage induction machine, the steady state equivalent circuit is shown below. In the
figure, s is the slip.

Rs Ls Rr Lr
Lm Rr(1-s)/s
Example: A VSI Induction Motor Drive System

The figure below shows an open-loop induction motor drive system. The motor has 6 poles and is fed by a
voltage source inverter with sinusoidal PWM. The dc bus is fed through a diode bridge.
The simulation waveforms of the mechanical speed (in rpm), developed torque Tem and load torque Tload, and 3-
phase input currents show the start-up transient.
VSI
Induction
Diode Motor
Bridge
Speed Torque
Sensor Sensor
Speed
Tem
Tload
SPWM
3-phase currents
4.6.3 Induction Machine with Saturation

Two models of induction machines with saturation are provided:
- 3-phase squirrel-cage induction machine
- 3-phase wound-rotor induction machine
Images:
Squirrel-cage (nonlinear) Wound-rotor (nonlinear)

as+ as+
as- as-
bs+ bs+
bs- bs-
cs+ cs+
cs- cs-
ar- br- cr-

ar+ br+ cr+

Attributes:
Ls (stator) Stator winding leakage inductance, in H
Rr (rotor) Rotor winding resistance referred to the stator side, in Ohm
Lr (rotor) Rotor winding leakage inductance referred to the stator side, in H
Ns/Nr Turns Ratio Stator and rotor winding turns ratio (for wound-rotor machine only)
No. of Poles Number of poles P of the machine (an even integer)
Im vs. Lm (Im1,Lm1) ... Characteristics of the magnetizing current Im versus the magnetizing inductance
[(Im1,Lm1) (Im2,Lm2) ...] where Im is in A and Lm is in H.

The operation of a 3-phase induction machine with saturation is described by the following equations:
d- d
v abc, s = R s i abc, s + L s -----
dt i abc , s
+ ------ abc, s
dt
d d
v abc, r = R r i abc, r + L r -----
- + ------
dt i abc, r dt abc, r
where
2 2
1 ---
1 1
--- cos cos + ------ cos ------
2 2 3 3
1 1 2 2
abc, s = M sr --- 1 --- i abc, s + M sr cos ------ cos cos + ------ i abc, r
2 2 3 3
1 1 2 2
--- ---
2 2
1 cos + ------ cos ------ cos
3 3
2 2
cos cos ------ cos + ------ 1 ---
1 1
---
3 3 2 2
2 2 + M sr 1 1
abc, s = M sr cos + ------ cos cos ------ i abc, s --- 1 --- i abc, r
3 3 2 2
2 2 1 1
cos ------ cos + ------ cos --- ---
2 2
1
3 3
In this case, the inductance Msr is no longer constant, but a function of the magnetizing current Im. The
magnetizing current Im and inductance Lm are defined by a series of data points in pair, for example, "(0, 0.041)
(5, 0.035) (20, 0.03)". Between two data points, the inductance Lm is interpolated linearly. When the
magnetizing current is less than the minimum or greater than the maximum, the inductance will be clamped to
the value at the first point or the last point.

4.6.4 DC Machine
The image and parameters of a dc machine are as follows:
Image:
+
Armature
Shaft Node
Winding
-
+
Field
Winding
-
Attributes:
Ra (armature) Armature winding resistance, in Ohm
La (armature) Armature winding inductance, in H
Rf (field) Field winding resistance, in Ohm
Lf (field) Field winding inductance, in H
Moment of Inertia Moment of inertia of the machine, in kg*m2
Vt (rated) Rated armature terminal voltage, in V
Ia (rated) Rated armature current, in A
n (rated) Rated mechanical speed, in rpm
If (rated) Rated field current, in A
Master/Slave Flag The master/slave flag of the machine (1: master; 0: slave)
When the torque flag is set to 1, the internal torque generated by the machine will be saved to the output file for
display.
The operation of a dc machine is described by the following equations:
di
v t = E a + i a R a + L a -------a-
dt
di
v f = i f R f + L f -------f-
dt
Ea = k m
T em = k i a
d
J ---------m = T em T L
dt
where vt, vf, ia, and if are the armature and field winding voltage and current, respectively; Ea is the back emf,

m is the mechanical speed in rad./sec., Tem is the internal developed torque, and TL is the load torque. The back
emf and the internal torque can also be expressed as:
E a = L af i f m
T em = L af i f i a
where Laf is the mutual inductance between the armature and the field windings. It can be calculated based on
the rated operating conditions as:
( Vt Ia Ra )
L af = ------------------------------
-
If m
Note that the dc machine model assumes magnetic linearity. Saturation is not considered.
Example: A DC Motor with a Constant-Torque Load
The circuit below shows a shunt-excited dc motor with a constant-torque load TL. Since the load is along the
reference direction of the mechanical system, the loading torque to the machine is TL. Also, the speed sensor is
along the reference direction. It will give a positive output for a positive speed.
The simulation waveforms of the armature current and the speed are shown on the right.
Speed
Sensor
Armature current
Constant-
Torque
Load Speed (in rpm)
4.6.5 Brushless DC Machine

A 3-phase brushless dc machine is a type of permanent magnet synchronous machine with trapezoidal
waveform back emf. It has 3-phase windings on the stator, and permanent magnet on the rotor.
The image of the 3-phase brushless dc machine is shown below. Two types of parameter inputs are provided:
One based on machine model parameters, and the other based on manufacturer datasheet information.
Image:
b Shaft Node
n sa sb sc
6-pulse Hall Effect Position Sensor
Attributes based on machine model parameters:
R (stator resistance) Stator phase resistance R, in Ohm
L (stator self ind.) Stator phase self inductance L, in H

M (stator mutual ind.) Stator mutual inductance M, in H
The mutual inductance M is a negative value. Depending on the winding
structure, the ratio between M and the stator self inductance L is normally
between -1/3 and -1/2. If M is unknown, a reasonable value of M equal to -0.4*L
can be used as the default value.
Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant, in V/krpm (mechanical speed)
Vrms / krpm RMS line-to-line back emf constant, in V/krpm (mechanical speed).
The values of Vpk/krpm and Vrms/krpm should be available from the machine
data sheet. If these values are not available, they can be obtained through
experiments by operating the machine as a generator at 1000 rpm and measuring
the peak and rms values of the line-to-line voltage.
No. of Poles P Number of poles P
Shaft Time Constant Shaft time constant shaft
theta_0 (deg.) Initial rotor angle r, in electrical deg.
The initial rotor angle is the rotor angle at t=0. The zero rotor angle position is
defined as the position where Phase A back emf crosses zero (from negative to
positive) under a positive rotation speed.
theta_advance (deg.) Position sensor advance angle advance, in electrical deg.
The advance angle is defined as such that, for a brushless dc machine with a 120o
trapezoidal back emf waveform, if the advance angle is 0, the leading edge of the
Phase A hall effect sensor signal will align with the intersection of the rising
ramp and the flat-top of the back emf trapezoidal waveform.
Conduction Pulse Width Position sensor conduction pulse width, in electrical deg.
Positive conduction pulse can turn on the upper switch and negative pulse can
turn on the lower switch in a full bridge inverter. The conduction pulse width is
120 electrical deg. for 120o conduction mode.
Torque Flag Output flag for internal developed torque Tem
Attributes based on manufacturer datasheet information:
Resistance (phase-phase) Phase-to-phase (or line-to-line) resistance, in Ohm
Inductance (phase-phase) Phase-to-phase (or line-to-line) inductance, in H
Speed Constant Speed constant Kv, defined as the ratio between the speed and the applied voltage,
in rpm/V
Torque Constant Torque constant Kt, defined as the ratio between the generated torque and the
applied current, in N*m/A
No Load Speed The motor speed at no load with the nominal voltage applied, in rpm

No Load Current The current under no load operation, in A
The node assignments of the image are: Nodes a, b, and c are the stator winding terminals for Phase A, B, and C,
respectively. The stator windings are Y connected, and Node n is the neutral point. The shaft node is the
connecting terminal for the mechanical shaft. They are all power nodes and should be connected to the power
circuit.
Node sa, sb, and sc are the outputs of the built-in 6-pulse hall effect position sensors for Phase A, B, and C,
respectively. The sensor output is a bipolar commutation pulse (1, 0, and -1). The sensor output nodes are all
control nodes and should be connected to the control circuit.
The equations of the 3-phase brushless dc machine are:
di
v a = R i a + ( L M ) -------a- + E a
dt
di
v b = R i b + ( L M ) -------b- + E b
dt
di
v c = R i c + ( L M ) -------c- + E c
dt
where va, vb, and vc are the phase voltages, ia, ib, and ic are the phase currents, R, L, and M are the stator phase
resistance, self inductance, and mutual inductance, and Ea, Eb, and Ec are the back emf of Phase A, B, and C,
respectively.
The back emf voltages are a function of the rotor mechanical speed m and the rotor electrical angle r, that is:
Ea = ke _ a m
Eb = ke _ b m
Ec = ke _ c m
The coefficients ke_a, ke_b, and ke_c are dependent on the rotor angle r. In this model, an ideal trapezoidal
waveform profile is assumed, as shown below for Phase A. Also shown is the Phase A hall effect sensor signal
Sa.
ke_a
Sa
Kpk
o
180
o r
360
-Kpk

V pk krpm 1
where Kpk is the peak trapezoidal value, in V/(rad./sec.), which is defined as: K pk = ------------------------ --------------------------------- .
2 1000 2 60
Given the values of Vpk/krpm and Vrms/krpm, the angle is determined automatically in the program.
The developed torque of the machine is:
T em = ( E a i a + E b i b + E c i c ) m
The mechanical equations are:

d
J ---------m = T em B m T load
dt
d r P
-------- = --- m
dt 2
where B is the friction coefficient, Tload is the load torque, and P is the number of poles. The coefficient B is
calculated from the moment of inertia J and the shaft time constant shaft as below:
J
B = --------------
shaft
The shaft time constant shaft, therefore, reflects the effect of the friction and windage of the machine. Note that
when the shaft time constant is set to 0, the friction term is B*m is ignored.
To better understand the definition of the shaft time constant, we can represent the mechanical equation with the
following equivalent circuit:
m
1/B Tload
Tem J (or shaft/J)
This circuit shows that the shaft time constant shaft is equal to the RC time constant of the resistor 1/B and the
capacitor J. Therefore, the shaft time constant can be measured by the following test:
- Connect the machine to an external mechanical source. With the stator side in open circuit, drive the
machine to a certain speed.
- Remove the mechanical source. The shaft time constant will be equal to the time that it takes the
machine to decelerate to 36.8% of its initial speed.
More Explanation on the Hall Effect Sensor:
A hall effect position sensor consists of a set of hall switches and a set of trigger magnets.
The hall switch is a semiconductor switch (e.g. MOSFET or BJT) that opens or closes when the magnetic field
is higher or lower than a certain threshold value. It is based on the hall effect, which generates an emf
proportional to the flux-density when the switch is carrying a current supplied by an external source. It is
common to detect the emf using a signal conditioning circuit integrated with the hall switch or mounted very
closely to it. This provides a TTL-compatible pulse with sharp edges and high noise immunity for connection to
the controller via a screened cable. For a three-phase brushless dc motor, three hall switches are spaced 120
electrical deg. apart and are mounted on the stator frame.
The set of trigger magnets can be a separate set of magnets, or it can use the rotor magnets of the brushless
motor. If the trigger magnets are separate, they should have the matched pole spacing (with respect to the rotor
magnets), and should be mounted on the shaft in close proximity to the hall switches. If the trigger magnets use
the rotor magnets of the machine, the hall switches must be mounted close enough to the rotor magnets, where
they can be energized by the leakage flux at the appropriate rotor positions.
Example: Defining Brushless DC Motor Parameters from Manufacturer Datasheet
This example illustrates how to define brushless dc motor parameters from manufacturer datasheet. Below is
the information provided on the datasheet of the brushless dc motor Maxon EC-22-16730 (32V, 50W) from
Maxon Motor.
Values at nominal voltage
Nominal voltage (V) 32
No load speed (rpm) 38700
No load current (mA) 327

Characteristics
Terminal resistance phase to phase (Ohm) 0.363
Terminal inductance phase to phase (mH) 0.049
Torque constant (mNm/A) 7.85
Speed constant (rpm/V) 1220
Rotor inertia (gcm2) 4.2
Other specifications:
Number of pole pairs 1
Number of phases 3
Using the element based on manufacturer datasheet information, and after converting all the quantities to the SI
units, the motor parameters in PSIM are defined as follows:
Resistance (phase-phase) 0.363
Inductance (phase-phase) 0.049m
Speed Constant 1220
Torque Constant 7.85m
No. of Poles P 2
Moment of Inertia 4.2e-7
No Load Speed 38700
No Load Current 327m
Torque Flag 1
Master/Slave Flag 1
Example: Start-Up of an Open-Loop Brushless DC Motor
The figure below shows an open-loop brushless dc motor drive system. The motor is fed by a 3-phase voltage
source inverter. The outputs of the motor hall effect position sensors are used as the gatings signals for the
inverter, resulting a 6-pulse operation.
The simulation waveforms show the start-up transient of the mechanical speed (in rpm), developed torque Tem,
and 3-phase input currents.
Brushless DC Motor
Speed
Tem
3-phase currents
4.6.6 Synchronous Machine with External Excitation

The structure of a conventional synchronous machine consists of three stator windings, one field winding on
either a salient or cylindrical rotor, and an optional damping winding on the rotor.
Depending on the way the internal model interfaces with the external stator circuitry, there are two types of
interface: one is the voltage-type interface, and the other is the current-type interface. The model for the
voltage-type interface consists of controlled voltage sources on the stator side, and this model is suitable in

situations where the machine operates as a generator and/or the stator external circuit is in series with inductive
branches. On the other hand, The model for the current-type interface consists of controlled current sources on
the stator side, and this model is suitable in situations where the machine operates as a motor and/or the stator
external circuit is in parallel with capacitive branches.
The image and parameters of the machine are shown as follows.
Image:
b Shaft Node
c
n
field+ field-
Attributes:
Ls (stator) Stator leakage inductance, in H
Ldm (d-axis mag. ind.) d-axis magnetizing inductance, in H
Lqm (q-axis mag. ind.) q-axis magnetizing inductance, in H.
Rf (field) Field winding resistance referred to the stator side, in Ohm
Lfl (field leakage ind.) Field winding leakage inductance referred to the stator side, in H
Rdr (damping cage) Rotor damping cage d-axis resistance referred to the stator side, in Ohm
Ldrl (damping cage) Rotor damping cage d-axis leakage inductance referred to the stator side, in H
Rqr (damping cage) Rotor damping cage q-axis resistance referred to the stator side, in Ohm
Lqrl (damping cage) Rotor damping cage q-axis leakage inductance referred to the stator side, in H
Ns/Nf (effective) Stator-field winding effective turns ratio
Number of Poles P Number of Poles P
Master/slave Flag Master/slave flag of the machine (1: master; 0: slave)
The equations of the synchronous machine can be expressed as follows:
d-
V = R I + -----
dt
where
T
V = va vb vc vf 0 0 I = i a i b i c i f i dr i qr

T
R = diag R s R s R s R f R dr R qr = a b c f dr qr
and [] = [L]*[I]. The inductance matrix is defined as follows:
L 11 L 12
L = T
L 12 L 22
and
L 2 L 2
L s + L o + L 2 cos ( 2 r ) ----o- + L 2 cos 2 r ------ ----o- + L 2 cos 2 r + ------
2 3 2 3
L L
L 11 = ----o- + L 2 cos 2 r 2 2
------ L s + L o + L 2 cos 2 r + ------ ----o- + L 2 cos ( 2 r )
2 3 3 2
Lo 2 Lo 2
----- + L 2 cos 2 r + ------ ----- + L 2 cos ( 2 r ) L s + L o + L 2 cos 2 r ------
2 3 2 3
L sf cos ( 2 r ) L sd cos ( 2 r ) L sq sin ( 2 r )

2 2 2
L cos 2 r ------ L sd cos 2 r ------ L sq sin 2 r ------
L 12 = sf 3 3 3
2 2 2
L sf cos 2 r + ------ L sd cos 2 r + ------ L sq sin 2 r + ------
3 3 3
L f L fdr 0
L 22 = L fdr L dr 0
0 0 L qr
where r is the rotor angle.

The developed torque can be expressed as:
P d
T = --- I -------- L I
2 d r
d
J --------m- = T em T load
dt
d r P
-------- = --- m
dt 2
The input parameters and the parameters in the equations are related in the following way:
L dm = 1.5 ( L o + L 2 )
L qm = 1.5 ( L o L 2 )
N 2
L sf = ----f- L dm
Ns
L sd = L dm
L sq = L qm
L fl = L f L sf
L fdr = L dm

L drl = L dr L dm
L qrl = L qr L qm
4.6.7 Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine

A 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous machine has 3-phase windings on the stator, and permanent magnet
on the rotor. The difference between this machine and the brushless dc machine is that the machine back emf is
sinusoidal.
Image:
b Shaft Node
Attributes:
Rs (stator resistance) Stator winding resistance, in Ohm
Ld (d-axis ind.) Stator d-axis inductance, in H
Lq (q-axis ind.) Stator q-axis inductance, in H.
The d-q coordinate is defined such that the d-axis passes through the center of the
magnet, and the q-axis is in the middle between two magnets. The q-axis is leading
the d-axis.
Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant, in V/krpm (mechanical speed).
The value of Vpk/krpm should be available from the machine data sheet. If this data
is not available, it can be obtained through an experiment by operating the machine
as a generator at 1000 rpm and measuring the peak line-to-line voltage.
Shaft Time Constant Shaft time constant shaft
Master/slave Flag Master/slave flag of the machine (1: master; 0: slave)
The node assignments of the image are: Nodes a, b, and c are the stator winding terminals for Phase a, b, and c,
respectively. The stator windings are Y connected, and Node n is the neutral point. The shaft node is the
connecting terminal for the mechanical shaft. They are all power nodes and should be connected to the power
circuit.
The equations of the permanent-magnet synchronous machine are:

va Rs 0 0 ia a
d-
-----
vb = 0 Rs 0 ib + b
dt
vc 0 0 Rs ic c
where va, vb, vc, and ia, ib, and ic, and a, b, c are the stator phase voltages, currents, and flux linkages,
respectively, and Rs is the stator phase resistance. The flux linkages are further defined as:
cos ( r )
a L aa L ab L ac ia 2
cos r ------
b = L ba L bb L bc i b + pm 3
c L ca L cb L cc ic 2
cos r + ------
3
where r is the rotor electrical angle, and pm is the peak stator phase flux linkage defined as:
60 V pk krpm
pm = --------------------------------------
-
3 P 1000
where P is the number of poles.
The stator self and mutual inductances are rotor position dependent, and are defined as:
L aa = L s + L o + L 2 cos ( 2 r )
2
L bb = L s + L o + L 2 cos 2 r + ------
3
2
L cc = L s + L o + L 2 cos 2 r ------
3
L 2
L ab = L ba = ----o- + L 2 cos 2 r ------
2 3
L 2
L ac = L ca = ----o- + L 2 cos 2 r + ------
2 3
L
L bc = L cb = ----o- + L 2 cos ( 2 r )
2
where Ls is the stator leakage inductance. The variables in the abc frame can be converted to the dq0 frame
using the following transformation:
2 2
cos ( r ) cos r ------ cos r + ------
3 3
xd xa
2
xq = --- sin ( ) sin 2
------ sin r + 2
------ x b
3 r r 3 3
x0 xc
1 1 1
--- --- ---
2 2 2
The inverse transformation is as follows:

cos ( r ) sin ( r ) 1
xa 2 2 xd
cos r ------ sin r ------ 1
xb = 3 3 xq
xc 2 2 x0
cos r + ------ sin r + ------ 1
3 3

The d-axis and q-axis inductances are associated with the inductances in the abc frame as follows:
3 3
L d = L s + --- L o + --- L 2
2 2
3 3
L q = L s + --- L o --- L 2
2 2
The developed torque can be expressed as:
2 2
sin ( 2 r ) sin 2 r ------ sin 2 r + ------ sin ( r )
3 3
ia 2
P
= --- L 2 i a i b i c sin 2 r 2 2 P sin r ------
------ sin 2 r + ------ sin ( 2 r ) i b --2- pm i a i b i c 3
2 3 3
ic 2
2 2 sin r + ------
sin 2 r + ------ sin ( 2 r ) sin 2 r ------ 3
3 3
In the dq0 frame, the developed torque can be expressed as:

3 P
T em = --- --- ( pm i q + ( L d L q ) i d i q )
2 2

d
J --------m- = T em B m T load
dt
d r
-------- = P
--- m
dt 2
where B is a coefficient, Tload is the load torque, and P is the number of poles. The coefficient B is calculated
from the moment of inertia J and the shaft time constant shaft as below:
J
B = --------------
shaft
4.6.8 Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine with Saturation

A 3-phase PMSM machine with saturation differs from that of a linear 3-phase PMSM machine in that the d-
axis and q-axis magnetizing inductances Ldm and Lqm can be expressed as a nonlinear function of the d-axis and
q-axis currents in the lookup table form.
Image:
b Shaft Node
c
n
Attributes:
Rs (stator resistance) Stator winding resistance, in Ohm
Ls (stator leakage ind.) Stator d-axis inductance, in H

Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant, in V/krpm (mechanical speed).
This value should be available from the machine data sheet. If not, it can be obtained
through experiment by operating the machine as a generator at 1000 rpm and
measuring the peak line-to-line voltage.
Shaft Time Constant Shaft time constant shaft, in sec. It is associated with the friction coefficient B as: B
= J / shaft.
Ld Lookup Table File File name of the lookup table for Ldm
Lq Lookup Table File File name of the lookup table for Lqm
dq Flag Flag for the lookup table. When the flag is 0, Ldm and Lqm are function of Id and Iq.
When the flag is 1, Ldm and Lqm are function of the current magnitude Im and the
angle.
Transformation Flag Flag for the transformation convention (see details below)
The relationship between the d-axis and q-axis inductances Ld and Lq and the magnetizing inductances Ldm and
Lqm is as follows:
L d = L s + L dm
L q = L s + L qm
where Ls is the stator leakage inductance. Since Ls is normally very small, Ld can be considered equivalent to
Ldm, and Lq can be considered equivalent to Lqm.
The Transformation Flag defines the transformation convention between the abc frame and the dq frame. When
the Transformation Flag is 0:
2 2
cos ( r ) cos r ------ cos r + ------ ia
Id 2 3 3
= --- ib
Iq 3 2 2
sin ( r ) sin r ------ sin r + ------ ic
3 3
2 2
Im = Id + Iq
m = atan 2 ( I q, I d )
The current vector angle is in deg., and is from -180o to 180o.

When the Transformation Flag is 1:
2 2
cos ( r ) cos r ------ cos r + ------ ia
Id 2 3 3
= --- ib
Iq 3 2 2
sin ( r ) sin r ------ sin r + ------ ic
3 3

2 2 2
Im = --- I d + I q
3
m = atan 2 ( I d, I q )
The current vector angle is in deg., and is from 0o to 360o.

The Ldm and Lqm lookup tables have the following format:
M, N
Vr1, Vr2, ..., VrM
Vc1, Vc2, ..., VcN
L11, L12, ..., L1N
L21, L22, ..., L2N
... ... ...
LM1, LM2, ..., LMN
where M is the number of rows and N is the number of columns; Vr is the row vector and Vc is the column
vector; and Li,j is the Ldm or Lqm inductance value, in H, at Row i and Column j. Note that Vectors Vr and Vc
must be monotonically increasing.
When the dq flag is 0, the row vector is Iq and the column vector is Id. When the flag is 1, the row vector is the
angle and the column vector is the amplitude Im.
If the input is between two points, interpolation is used to calculate the value. If the input is less than the
minimum or greater than the maximum value, the input will be set to the minimum or maximum value.
This PMSM model with saturation can also be used as the linear PMSM model if the lookup tables are defined
such that Ldm and Lqm are linear function of Id and Iq.
The following shows an example of the lookup table:
4,15
-5.7155 -4.8990 -4.0825 -3.2660
-5.7155 -4.8990 -4.0825 -3.2660 -2.4495 -1.6330 -0.8165 0 0.8165 1.6330 2.4495 3.2660 4.0825 4.8990
5.7155
0.0109 0.0109 0.0107 0.0104 0.0102 0.0100 0.0098 0.0098 0.0098 0.0100 0.0102 0.0104 0.0107 0.0109
0.0109
0.0109 0.0109 0.0109 0.0106 0.0109 0.0106 0.0105 0.0105 0.0105 0.0106 0.0109 0.0106 0.0109 0.0109
0.0109
0.0109 0.0109 0.0109 0.0109 0.0111 0.0108 0.0106 0.0106 0.0106 0.0108 0.0111 0.0109 0.0109 0.0109
0.0109
0.0110 0.0110 0.0111 0.0110 0.0110 0.0109 0.0108 0.0107 0.0108 0.0109 0.0110 0.0110 0.0111 0.0110
0.0110

4.6.9 Switched Reluctance Machine
Three types of switched reluctance machine models are provided: 3-phase, 4-phase, and 5-phase.
Images:
3-phase 4-phase 5-phase
a+
a-
a+ a+
a- a-
b+
b- Shaft Node
c+
c-
Attributes:
Resistance Stator phase resistance R, in Ohm
Inductance Lmin Minimum phase inductance Lmin, in H
Inductance Lmax Maximum phase inductance Lmax, in H
Theta_min (deg.) Duration of the interval min where the inductance is at the minimum, in deg.
Theta_max (deg.) Duration of the interval max where the inductance is at the maximum, in deg.
Stator Pole Number Number of stator poles (teeth)
Rotor Pole Number Number of rotor poles (teeth)
The node assignments are: Nodes a+, a-, b+, b-, c+, c-, etc. are the stator winding terminals for Phase a, b, c, d,
and e, respectively. The shaft node is the connecting terminal for the mechanical shaft. They are all power nodes
and should be connected to the power circuit.
The equation of the switched reluctance machine for one phase is:
d(L i)
v = i R + ------------------
dt
where v is the phase voltage, i is the phase current, R is the phase resistance, and L is the phase inductance. The
phase inductance L is a function of the rotor angle (in electrical deg.), as shown in the following figure. The
inductance profile is half-wave symmetrical. That is, it repeats itself after 180o.

L
max
Lmax
Lmin
rf min
0 max 180 (in deg.)

2
The rotor angle is defined such that, when the stator and the rotor teeth are completely aligned, = 0. The value
of the inductance can be in either rising stage, flat-top stage, falling stage, or flat-bottom stage.
If we define the constant k as the rising slope of the inductance from Lmin to Lmax (which is the same as the
falling slope from Lmax to Lmin), and the interval of the rising/falling slope is rf, we can express the inductance
L as a function of the rotor angle (from 0 to 180o) as follows:
max
L = L max for 0 ---------
2
-

L = L max k ---------
max max max
2
-
for ---------
2
- ---------
2
- + rf

max
max
L = L min for ---------
2
- + rf ---------
2
- + rf + min

L = L min + k ---------
- rf min for ---------
max max max
- + rf + min ---------
- + 2 rf + min
2 2 2

max
L = L max for ---------
2
- + 2 rf + min 180 o
The developed torque of the machine per phase is:

1 2 dL
T em = --- i ------
2 d
Based on the inductance expression, we have the developed torque in each stage as:
Tem = i2*k / 2 [rising stage]
Tem = 0 [flat-top stage]
Tem = - i2*k / 2 [falling stage]
Tem = 0 [flat-bottom stage]

4.6.10 Nonlinear Switched Reluctance Machine
In the previous switched reluctance models, the inductance is only a function of the rotor position, and it
remains constant during the flat-top and flat-bottom states. In the nonlinear models, the inductance can be a
nonlinear function of not only the rotor position, but also the current. The relationship between the inductance
and the rotor position and current is defined through a 2-dimensional lookup table.
The images and parameters are shown as follows.
Images:
3-phase 4-phase a+ 5-phase

a-
a+
a-
b+ Shaft Node
b-
c+
c-
Attributes:
Resistance Stator phase resistance R, in Ohm
Stator Pole Number Number of stator poles (teeth)
Rotor Pole Number Number of rotor poles (teeth)
Inductance Table File The file that stores the 2-dimensional table of the inductance versus the rotor
position and the current.
The inductance table file has the following format:
m, n
1, 2, ..., m
I1, I2, ..., In
L1,1, L1,2, ..., L1,n
L2,1, L2,2, ..., L2,n
... ... ...
Lm,1, Lm,2, ..., Lm,n
where m is the number of rows and n is the number of columns; 1 to m is the row vector for the rotor position
(in deg.), and I1 and In is the column vector for the phase current (in A); and Li,j is the inductance value (in H) at
Row i and Column j. For example, when the rotor position is 2 and the phase current is I1, the inductance is
L2,1.
Because of the half-wave symmetry, only inductance values from 0 to 180o need to be provided. Note that the
row vector and column vector must be monotonically increasing.
The machine equations are the same as these in the linear switched reluctance machine model.

4.6.11 Motor Control Blocks
The following control blocks for different machine types are provided:
- Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere Control
- Field Weakening Control
4.6.11.1 Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere Control

There are two Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere (MTPA) control blocks in PSIMs Motor Drive Module. Their
images are shown below. On the left side is the MTPA for linear internal permanent magnet synchronous
machine (linear IPM), and on the right side is for nonlinear IPM
Images:
MTPA (IPM) MTPA (NL)
Id Is Id
Ld
Is
Lq
Iq Lambda Iq
Attributes of MTPA for Linear IPM:
Ld (d-axis inductance) d-axis inductance of the PMSM machine, in H
Lq (q-axis inductance) q-axis inductance of the PMSM machine, in H
Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant of the machine, in V/krpm (mechanical speed)
Number of Poles Number of poles of the machine
Maximum Inverter Maximum inverter output current amplitude (peak), in A
Current
Base Voltage Value System base voltage value, in V

Base Current Value System base current value, in A
Base Mechanical Speed System base mechanical speed, in rad/sec
The Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere control block has the following inputs and outputs, all in per-unit values:
Is: Inverter current amplitude reference, input.
Id: d-axis current reference, output.
Iq: q-axis current reference, output
This block is for the control of linear PMSM machines only. Given the current amplitude reference, this block
will calculate the d-axis and q-axis current references Id and Iq such that the maximum amount of torque is
generated by the machine.
The block requires the parameters of the PMSM controlled and the inverter current rating.
Attributes MPTA for Non-linear IPM:
Current

This block is for the control of nonlinear internal permanent magnet synchronous machines (IPM) only. It has
the following inputs and outputs, all in per unit value except the inductances Ld and Lq and the flux linkage

Lambda. If the base value Ib is set to 1, all input and output quantities are in real values.
Input Signals:
Is: Inverter current amplitude reference
Ld: d-axis inductance Ld, in H
Lq: q-axis inductance Lq, in H
Lambda: Peak stator phase flux linkage, in Weber
Output Signals:
Id: d-axis current reference
Iq: q-axis current reference
Given the current amplitude reference, this block will calculate the d-axis and q-axis current references Id and
Iq such that the maximum amount of torque is generated by the machine.
4.6.11.2 Field Weakening Control

The images of field weakening control blocks are shown below.
Images:
For IPM For IPM Non-linear For SPM For Induction Machine
Field Weakening (IPM) Field Weakening (NL) Field Weakening (SPM) Field Weakening
Is Id Is Id Is Id Vdc
Ld
Vdc Vdc Id
Lq
Wm Iq Lambda Wm Iq We
Vdc
Wm Iq
Attributes for Field Weakening (IPM):
Rs (stator resistance) Stator winding resistance of the machine, in Ohm
Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant of the machine, in V/krpm (mechanical speed)
Current
Maximum Inverter Maximum inverter output voltage amplitude (phase peak), in V
Voltage
The field weakening (IPM) control block accepts the following input signals, all in per-unit value.
Vdc: DC bus voltage feedback
Wm: Motor mechanical speed, in rad/sec.
It has the following output signals, all in per-unit value:

This block is for the control of linear PMSM machines only. When the machine speed is higher than a certain
value, the machine will not be able to provide the maximum amount of torque. Instead, it will be limited by the
machine power rating. Given the current amplitude reference, dc bus voltage, and the motor speed, the field
weakening block will calculate the d-axis and q-axis current references Id and Iq to achieve a maximum power
operation.
This block requires the parameters of the PMSM controlled and the inverter voltage and current ratings.
Attributes for Field Weakening (Non-Linear IPM):
Current
Voltage
The block has the following inputs and outputs, all in per unit value except Ld, Lq, and Lambda. If base voltage
value Vb, Ib, and Wmb are all set to 1, all input and output quantities are in true values.
Input Signals:
Is: Inverter current amplitude reference.
Ld: d-axis inductance at the rated operating conditions, in real value in H
Lq: q-axis inductance at the rated operating conditions, in real value in H
Lambda: Peak stator phase flux linkage at the rated operating conditions, in real value in Weber
Wm: Motor mechanical speed in
Output Signals:
Id: d-axis current reference.
Iq: q-axis current reference.
This block is for the control of nonlinear interior PMSM (IPM) machines only. It is not for surface mounted
PMSM (SPM) machines.
When the machine speed is higher than a certain value, the machine will not be able to generate the maximum
torque. Instead, it will be limited by the machine power rating. Given the current amplitude reference, dc bus
voltage, and the motor speed, the field weakening control block will calculate the d-axis and q-axis current
references Id and Iq to operate in the constant power region.
Attributes for Field Weakening (SPM):
Ld (d-axis inductanc) The inductance on d-axis, in H
Vpk/krpm The ratio of peak voltage versus speed. in V/krpm
Current
Voltage

The block has the following inputs and outputs, all in per unit value. If base values Vb, Ib, and Wmb are all set
at 1, input and output quantities are in real values.
Input Signals:
Wm: Motor mechanical speed
Output Signal:
This block is for the control of linear surface-mounted PMSM (SPM) machines only. It is not for internal
PMSM (IPM) machines. In a SPM, the d-axis and q-axis inductance values are equal.
torque. Instead, it will be limited by the machine power rating. Given the current amplitude, dc bus voltage, and
the motor speed, the field weakening control block will calculate the d-axis and q-axis current references Id and
Iq to operate in the constant power region.
Attributes for Field Weakening (IPM):
Rs (stator) Stator winding resistance of the machine, in Ohm
Lls (stator leakage) Stator leakage inductance of the PMSM machine, in H
Rr (rotor) Rotor winding resistance of the machine, in Ohm
Llr (rotor leakage) Rotor leakage inductance of the machine, in H
Rated Speed (rpm) Rated speed of the machine, in rpm
AC Source Frequency AC source frequency, in Hz
AC Voltage (line-line rms) AC source voltage, line-to-line rms, in V
The block has the following inputs and outputs, all in per unit value. If base values Vb, Ib, and Wmb are all set
at 1.0, all input and output quantities are in real values.
Input Signals:
Vdc: DC bus voltage
We: Stator electrical speed (in per unit, with the base value of Wmb)
Output Signal:
This block is for the control of linear induction machines only.
torque. Instead, it will be limited by the machine power rating. Given the dc bus voltage and the stator speed,
the field weakening control block will calculate the d-axis current reference Id to operate in the constant power
region.

4.7 MagCoupler Module
The MagCoupler Module provides interface for co-simulation between PSIM and the software JMAG. JMAG is
an electromagnetic field analysis software for the development and design of electric machines, actuators, and
other electrical and electronic devices and components. With the MagCoupler Module, one can perform power
electronics and control in PSIM, and electromagnetic field analysis in JMAG.
The MagCoupler Module includes the MagCoupler-DL block and the MagCoupler block, as well as the
mechanical elements and speed/torque/position sensors as described in Section 4.9.
The differences between the MagCoupler-DL block and the MagCoupler block and are:
- With the MagCoupler block, PSIM and JMAG run at the same time step, whereas with the
MagCoupler-DL block, PSIM and JMAG can run at different time steps. The flexibility to set
different time steps would make it possible to run JMAG at a larger time step and speed up the
overall simulation.
- The interface ports of the MagCoupler block are signal ports. That is, electric currents do not flow
into or out of the interface ports, and an electric current must first be converted into a voltage
signal before it can be connected to the block. On the other hand, the MagCoupler-DL block is a
native power element, and the interface ports behavior in the same way as other power circuit
nodes (i.e. voltages can be applied and currents can flow in and out of the nodes). Because of the
difference, the MagCoupler-DL block provides more efficient and robust interface between PSIM
and JMAG.
To run the MagCoupler Module, the JMAG installation directory and the directories that include the JMAG
DLL files "jbdll.dll" and "RT_Dll.dll" must be added to the PSIMs search path. To add to PSIMs search path,
in PSIM, go to Options >> Set Path, and click on Add Folder.
Also, the MagCoupler Module requires Microsoft Internet Explorer Version 6 or higher. It will not work with
Internet Explorer Version 5.
The description of the MagCoupler-DL block and the MagCoupler block is given below.
4.7.1 MagCoupler-DL Block

The MagCoupler-DL block has the following image and properties.
Image:
Attributes:
Parameter Description
Netlist XML File The file defines the interface between PSIM and JMAG. The file extension is .xml.
JMAG Input File The JMAG input data file. It has the .jcf extension. Note that the .xml and .jcf files
must be in the same directory.
JMAG Case Text Comments for the JMAG circuit
Terminal Names Terminal names of the block
The power circuit nodes and mechanical shaft nodes, as well as the rest of the interface between PSIM and the
JMAG data files, are defined in the Netlist XML File. This file is in XML format, and is generated by JMAG. To
specify this file, click on the browse button at the right of the edit field.

When a specific XML is selected, the .jcf data file will be read, and the terminals (nodes) of the block will be
displayed. In the block image, the power circuit nodes will be placed at the top of the block, arranged from the
left to the right. The mechanical shaft nodes will be placed on the left and right of the block, with the first shaft
node on the right, and the second shaft node on the left.
The JMAG Input File is the JMAG data file for the device modeled. The file has the .jcf extension and is
defined in the netlist XML file. Note that the .jcf file and the .xml file must be in the same directory.
The JMAG Case Text is a text identifying the specific JMAG study case. It can be any text.
The parameters of a sample permanent-magnet synchronous machine is shown below:
dt_of_JMAG Time step used in JMAG.
Ir Rated current. It is used in JMAG
dl_threshold Current threshold. It is used in JMAG
dr_threshold Displacement threshold. It is used in JMAG
Moment of Inertia Moment of inertia of the machine, in kg*m2.
Shaft Time Constant Shaft time constant of the machine, in sec.
Back emf Flag Display flag for all FEM coil currents (1: display; 0: no display)
Rotor Angle Flag Display flag for all shaft angles
Speed Flag Display flag for all shaft speeds
Torque Flag Display flag for all developed torques
shaft1 Master Flag Master/slave flag of the machine (1: master; 0: slave)
Please consult JMAG manuals and documents on how to set up the co-simulation on the JMAG side.
4.7.2 MagCoupler Block

The MagCoupler block has the following image and properties.
Image:
Block with 4 inputs and 4 outputs
Attributes:
Link Table File The XML file that defines the interface between PSIM and JMAG. It has the .xml
extension.
JMAG Input File The JCF input data file for JMAG. It has the .jcf extension. Note that the .xml file and
the .jcf file must be in the same directory.

JMAG Case Text Comments for the JMAG circuit
IN Nodes Nodes that pass the values from PSIM to JMAG
OUT Nodes Nodes that pass the values from JMAG to PSIM
The number of input and output nodes may vary, depending on the actual number of input/output nodes in a
particular circuit.
The MagCoupler block accepts voltages, currents, and positions as inputs, and it provides voltages, currents,
positions, torques, and force as the outputs. In PSIM, the MagCoupler block is a power circuit element. The way
it interfaces with the rest of the circuit is that both the inputs and outputs are voltage signals (no electric current
flows into the input node). To convert a branch current into a voltage signal, or vice versa, one can use a current-
controlled voltage source, or voltage-controlled current source.
The Link Table File, in XML format, defines the input/output interface and corresponding functions in JMAG.
This file is generated automatically by JMAG. To locate this file, click on the browse button at the right of the
edit field.
The JMAG Input File is the JCF input data file that is read by the JMAG solver. The name is defined in the Link
Table File.
Note that JCF input file .jcf must be in the same directory as the input link table file .xml. If any material
database is used in JMAG, it should also be placed in the directory of the .xml file. Also, the .xml file does not
have to be in the same directory as the schematic file. However, if a .xml file with the same name is present in
the schematic directory, PSIM will read the one in the schematic directory first.
The JMAG Case Text is a text identifying the specific JMAG circuit. It can be any text describing the JMAG
circuit.
The IN Nodes are the nodes through which PSIM passes the values to JMAG. In the MagCoupler block image,
the order of the input nodes is from the top to the bottom. The order can be changed by highlighting the node
and click on the upper or down arrow.
The OUT Nodes are the nodes through which JMAG passes the values back to PSIM. In the MagCoupler block
image, the order of the output nodes is from the top to the bottom. The order can be changed by highlighting the
node and click on the upper or down arrow.
By clicking on the Edit Image button, one can edit and customize the image of the MagCoupler block. Clicking
on the Display File button will display the Link Table File in the Microsoft Internet Explorer environment, and
clicking on the Read File button will read or re-load the Link Table File.
Set-up in JMAG and PSIM:
Using the MagCoupler block, it is easy to set up the link between JMAG and PSIM for co-simulation. It
involves two main steps: setting up the circuit in JMAG and generating the link table file, and loading the link
table file into PSIM.
An inductor example below is used to illustrate this process.
In the PSIM circuit of this example, the circuit on the left uses the built-in inductor element from the PSIM
library, and the circuit on the right has the inductor implemented in JMAG. In this case, the inductor is modelled
as a controlled current source in PSIM. The voltage across the inductor is first converted to a node-to-ground
voltage through a voltage-controlled voltage source, and the value is passed to the input node VL of the
MagCoupler block. At each time step, PSIM calls JMAG functions which calculate the inductor current based
on the voltage input. This current is then sent back to PSIM in the voltage form, and is used to control the
current source that represents the inductor.
In the JMAG circuit of this example, the voltage function (on the left side) receives the voltage from PSIM, and
through the current probe in series with the FEM coil, the current is calculated and sent back to PSIM. The
inductor structure in the JMAG environment is shown on the lower right.

Circuit in PSIM (file: inductor_jmag.sch)
Circuit and Structure in JMAG (file: inductor.jsp)
The setup process of calling JMAG in PSIM through the MagCoupler block is as follows.
In JMAG:
- In the JMAG circuit, connect a voltage function to the right of the FEM coil. Under Electrical
Potential in the property window, choose Constant Value, and set Constant Value [V] to 0.
- Connect a current probe to the left of the FEM coil.
- Connect another voltage function to the left of the current probe (the circuit will look like what is
shown above). In the property window, choose Cooperates with an external circuit simulator.
- Highlight the inductor structure window. Go to the menu Conditions >> Create Conditions. From
the Conditions List, highlight Coupled External Circuit Simulator, and click Modify.
- On the Coupled External Circuit Simulator dialog window, there are two lists. The list on the right,
called JMAG, contains all the functions that can be used to interface with PSIM. The list on the
left, called External Circuit Simulator, contains the functions that are selected to interface with
PSIM. In this case, there are two items in the JMAG list, one is the Voltage Function, and the other
is the Current Probe.
- Highlight the Voltage Function, and click on the <- button to move the item from the list on the right
to the list on the left. Repeat the same step to the Current Probe. Now both items should appear in
the list on the left.
- Highlight the Voltage Function, and change the terminal name to VL. Also, change the Current Probe
terminal name to iL. Close the dialog window.
- Go to the menu File >> Export and select JCF.... With the JCF file name defined as "inductor", the
JCF file "inductor.jcf" and the link table file "inductor_csl.xml" will be generated.
- Copy the JCF file "inductor.jcf" and the link table file "inductor_csl.xml" to the folder containing the
PSIM schematic file "inductor_jmag.sch". Rename the link table file to "inductor_jmag.xml". Note
that the XML file does not have to be renamed, and both the JCF and XML files do not have to be
moved to the folder of the schematic file. They are done here for the simplicity of file management
In PSIM:
- After the rest of the power circuit is created, go to Elements >> Power >> MagCoupler Module,
and select MagCoupler Block. Place the block on the schematic.

- Double click on the MagCoupler block to bring out the property window. click on the browser button
next to the Link Table File edit field to locate and select the file "inductor_jmag.xml". After
the file is read, the property window will display the IN node VL and the OUT node iL.
- Connect the MagCouple block to the rest of the circuit in the schematic.
The setup is now complete and the simulation is ready to run.
4.8 MagCoupler-RT Module

The MagCoupler-RT Module provides interface between PSIM and JMAG-RT data files. JMAG-RT is another
way of modeling electromagnetic devices. The JMAG-RT data files are obtained by running the JMAG
simulation in advance, and the data files are stored in a lookup table form. During the PSIM simulation, JMAG
is not needed, and PSIM interfaces directly with the JMAG-RT data.
The biggest advantage of JMAG-RT is that, since the JMAG-RT data files are obtained from the JMAG
dynamic simulation, the accuracy of the JMAG-RT model is comparable to that of a JMAG dynamic model.
However, since JMAG is not involved in the PSIM simulation, the PSIM simulation is significantly faster.
The MagCoupler-RT Module includes the blocks described in this section, and mechanical elements and speed/
torque/position sensors as described in Section 4.9.
Four MagCoupler-RT blocks are provided:
- 3-phase permanent-magnet synchronous machine (PMSM)
- 2-phase step machine
- Linear synchronous machine
- Linear solenoid
Each block has the dedicated image, as shown below.
Images:
PMSM Step Machine
A B C A+ C+ A- C-
B+ D+ B- D-
M- M+ M- M+
Linear Synchronous Machine Linear Solenoid

A B C A+ A-
M- M+ M- M+

Attributes:
Netlist XML File The XML file that defines the interface between PSIM and JMAG-RT. It has the .xml
extension.
JMAG-RT Input File The JMAG-RT data file. It has the .rtt extension. Note that the .xml file and the .rtt
file must be in the same directory.
JMAG Case Text Comments for the JMAG-RT circuit
Terminal Names Terminal names of the block
In the MagCoupler-RT block images, the power circuit nodes (such as A, B, C, A+, A-, B+, B-, C+, C-, D+, and
D- as shown above) are placed at the top of the block, arranged from the left to the right. The mechanical shaft
nodes are placed on the left and right of the block, with the first shaft node (such as M+ as shown above) on the
right, and the second shaft node (such as M-) on the left.
The electric nodes and rotor shaft nodes, as well as the rest of the interface between PSIM and the JMAG-RT
data files (.rtt file), are defined in the Netlist XML File. This file is in XML format, and is generated by the
JMAG-RT Manager. To specify this file, click on the browse button at the right of the edit field.
Note that for each type of MagCoupler-RT block, the "NetlistElement" must be the same as the predefined
name. The predefined names are:
- "PM Synchronous Machine" for 3-phase PMSM
- "Step Machine" for 2-phase step machine
- "Linear Synchronous Machine" for linear synchronous machine
- "Linear Solenoid" for linear solenoid
For example, the first several lines of a netlist XML file for a PMSM may look like the following:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<CircuitElement file="imp.rtt" name="MagCoupler-RT">
<NetlistElement type="JMAGRT" element="PM Synchronous Machine" pole_number="4">
... ... ...
The JMAG-RT Input File is the JMAG-RT data file for the device modeled. The file has the .rtt extension and is
defined in the netlist XML file. Note that the .rtt file and the .xml file must be in the same directory.
The JMAG Case Text is a text identifying the specific JMAG-RT study case. It can be any text.
The Terminal Names are the names of the interface nodes.
The parameters of a 3-phase PMSM is shown below:
shaft1_MomentofInertia Moment of inertia of the machine, in kg*m2
shaft1_ShaftTimeConstant Shaft time constant of the machine, in sec.
RU_resistance Resistance of Phase U, in Ohm
RV_resistance Resistance of Phase V, in Ohm
RW_resistance Resistance of Phase W, in Ohm
OffsetAngle Initial rotor angle, in mechanical deg.
coef_inductance Inductance coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_flux Flux coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_torque Torque coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_magnet Magnet coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)

coef_material Material coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
turns_coil1 Coil 1 turns (used in JMAG-RT)
Current Flag Display flag for 3-phase FEM coil currents (1: display; 0: no display)
Back emf Flag Display flag for 3-phase FEM coil back emf
Rotor Angle Flag Display flag for the rotor angle in mechanical deg.
Speed Flag Display flag for the shaft mechanical speed in rad./sec.
Torque Flag Display flag for the developed torque in N*m
The parameters of a 2-phase step machine is shown below:
RA+ Resistance of Phase A+, in Ohm
RA- Resistance of Phase A-, in Ohm
RB+ Resistance of Phase B+, in Ohm
RB- Resistance of Phase B-, in Ohm
MomentofInertia Moment of inertia of the machine, in kg*m2
ShaftTimeConstant Shaft time constant of the machine, in sec.
OffsetAngle Initial rotor angle, in mechanical deg.
coef_inertia1 Inertia 1 coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_inertia2 Inertia 2 coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
Rotor Angle Flag Display flag for the rotor angle in mechanical deg.
Speed Flag Display flag for the shaft mechanical speed in rad./sec.
Torque Flag Display flag for the developed torque in N*m
The parameters of a linear solenoid is shown below:
RA Resistance of the solenoid, in Ohm
Mass Mass of the solenoid, in kg
ShaftTimeConstant Shaft time constant of the solenoid, in sec.
SpringConstant Spring constant of the solenoid (used in JMAG-RT)
DispLimitMax Maximum limit of the displacement of the solenoid, in m
DispLimitMin Minimum limit of the displacement of the solenoid, in m
OffsetDisp Initial displacement, in m

coef_mass1 Mass 1 coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
Position Flag Display flag for the solenoid position in m
Velocity Flag Display flag for the solenoid velocity in m/sec.
Force Flag Display flag for the developed force in N
mass1 Master Flag Master/slave flag of the solenoid (1: master; 0: slave)
The parameters of a linear synchronous machine is shown below:
RU Resistance of Phase U, in Ohm
RV Resistance of Phase V, in Ohm
RW Resistance of Phase W, in Ohm
Mass Mass of the machine, in kg
ShaftTimeConstant Shaft time constant of the solenoid, in sec.
OffsetDisp Initial displacement, in m
coef_inductance Inductance coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_flux Flux coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_force Torque coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_magnet Magnet coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
coef_material Material coefficient (used in JMAG-RT)
Position Flag Display flag for the solenoid position in m
Velocity Flag Display flag for the solenoid velocity in m/sec.
Force Flag Display flag for the developed force in N
mass1 Master Flag Master/slave flag of the solenoid (1: master; 0: slave)
In all the parameter definitions above, except the flags (current flag, back emf flag, rotor angle/position flag,
speed/velocity flag, torque/force flag, and master flag), all other parameters are read from the .rtt file defined in
the XML file. These values can be changed, and for these parameters noted with "used in JMAG-RT", the
changed values will be sent back to JMAG-RT for calculation.
Several MagCoupler-RT examples are provided under the "examples\MagCoupler-RT" folder.

4.9 Mechanical Elements and Sensors
This section describes elements that are shared by Motor Drive Module, MagCoupler Module, and
MagCoupler-RT Module. The elements include mechanical loads, gear boxes, mechanical coupling blocks,
mechanical-electrical interface blocks, and various speed/torque/position sensors.
4.9.1 Mechanical Loads

Several mechanical load models are provided: constant-torque, constant-power, constant-speed, general-type,
and externally controlled loads.
4.9.1.1 Constant-Torque Load

The image of a constant-torque load is:
Image:
Attributes:
Constant Torque Torque constant Tconst, in N*m
Moment of Inertia Moment of inertia of the load, in kg*m2
If the reference direction of a mechanical system enters the dotted terminal, the load is along the reference
direction, and the loading torque to the master machine is Tconst. Otherwise the loading torque will be -Tconst.
See Section 2.6.1 for more detailed explanation on the reference direction.
A constant-torque load is expressed as:
T L = T const
The torque does not depend on the speed direction.
4.9.1.2 Constant-Power Load

The image of a constant-power load is:
Image:
Attributes:
Maximum Torque Maximum torque Tmax of the load, in N*m
Base Speed Base speed nbase of the load, in rpm
The torque-speed curve of a constant-power load is shown below:

Tmax
Torque
(N*m)
0 nbase Speed (rpm)
When the mechanical speed is less than the base speed nbase, the load torque is:
T L = T max
When the mechanical speed is above the base speed, the load torque is:
P
T L = ---------
m
where P = Tmax*base and base = 2nbase/60. The mechanical speed m is in rad./sec.
4.9.1.3 Constant-Speed Load

The image of a constant-speed load is:
Image:
Attributes:
Constant Speed (rpm) Speed constant, in rpm
A constant-speed mechanical load defines the speed of a mechanical system, and the speed will remain
constant, as defined by the speed constant.
4.9.1.4 General-Type Load

The image of a general-type mechanical load is as follows.
Image:
Attributes:
Tc Constant torque term
k1 (coefficient) Coefficient for the linear term

k2 (coefficient) Coefficient for the quadratic term
k3 (coefficient) Coefficient for the cubic term
A general-type load is expressed as:
2 3
T L = sign ( m ) ( T c + k 1 m + k 2 m + k 3 m )
where m is the mechanical speed in rad./sec.

Note that the torque of the general-type load is dependent on the speed direction.
4.9.1.5 Externally-Controlled Load

An externally-controlled mechanical load is used to define a load of an arbitrary load profile.
Image:
Attributes:
Speed Flag Flag for speed dependency
Flag = 0: The load is frictional and is always against the rotational direction;
Flag = 1: The load is independent of the rotational direction.
The value of the mechanical load is defined by the voltage value at the control node (1V corresponds to 1 N*m).
This node is a control circuit node.
4.9.2 Gear Box

The image is a gear box is shown below.
Image:
Shaft 1
Shaft 2
Attribute:
Gear Ratio The gear ratio a
Shaft 1 Master/Slave Flag Master/slave flag for Shaft 1
Shaft 2 Master/Slave Flag Master/slave flag for Shaft 2
The shaft with the bigger dot is Shaft 1.
If the numbers of teeth of the first gear and the second gear are n1 and n2, respectively, the gear ratio a is defined
as: a = n1 / n2. Let the radius, torque, and speed of these two gears be: r1, r2, T1, T2, 1, and 2, we have: T1 /

T2 = r1 / r2 = 2 / 1= a.
The two shafts of the gear box can be in either master mode or slave mode. For more information on the
definition and use of the master/slave flag, refer to Section 4.6.1.
4.9.3 Mechanical Coupling Block

The mechanical coupler block is used to couple two mechanical systems.
Image:
Mechanical System #1 Mechanical System #2
This block is used in situations where both mechanical systems have a device in the master mode, and they must
be connected together to form one system. Based on the connection convention in PSIM, a mechanical system
can have only one master device. In this case, the mechanical coupling block can be inserted in between, and the
mechanical system on each side of the coupling block can have its own device in the master mode.
4.9.4 Mechanical-Electrical Interface Block

This block allows users to access the internal equivalent circuit of the mechanical system of a machine.
Image:
Mechanical Side Electrical Side
Attribute:
Master/Slave Flag Flag for the master/slave mode (1: master, 0: slave)
Similar to electric machines, the mechanical-electrical interface block can be used to define the reference
direction of a mechanical system through the master/slave flag. When the interface block is set to the master
mode, the reference direction is along the mechanical shaft, away from the mechanical node, and towards the
rest of the mechanical elements.
Lets assume that a drive system consists of a motor (with a developed torque of Tem and a moment of inertia of
J1) and a mechanical load (with a load torque of Tload and a moment of inertia of J2). The equation that
describes the mechanical system is:
d
( J 1 + J 2 ) ---------m = T em T load
dt
where m is the shaft mechanical speed. In PSIM, this equation is modelled by an equivalent circuit as shown
below.
m speed node
Tem J1 J2 Tload
In this circuit, the two current sources have the values of Tem and Tload, and the capacitors have the values of J1
and J2. The node-to-ground voltage (speed node voltage) represents the mechanical speed m. This is
analogous to C*dV/dt = i for a capacitor where C = J1+J2, V = m, and i = Tem-Tload.

In PSIM, mechanical equivalent circuits for motors and mechanical loads all use the capacitor-based circuit
model. The mechanical-electrical interface block provides the access to the internal mechanical equivalent
circuit. If the mechanical side of an interface block (with the letters M) is connected to a mechanical shaft, the
electrical side (with the letters E) will be the speed node of the mechanical equivalent circuit. One can thus
connect any electrical circuits to this node.
With this element, users can connect built-in motors or mechanical loads with user-defined load or motor
models.
Example: An induction machine with a custom mechanical load model
The figure below shows an induction machine connected to a user defined mechanical load model through the
mechanical-electrical interface block. As explained above, the voltage at the electrical side represents the shaft
mechanical speed. A current source flowing out of this node represents a mechanical load, and a capacitor
connected to this node represents the load moment of inertia.
Mechanical load model
Example: A custom machine model with a constant-torque load

Similarly, one can build a custom machine model and connect it to the mechanical load in PSIM. The figure
below shows such a circuit. The custom machine model must use the capacitor analogy to model the mechanical
equation. The node representing the mechanical speed is then made available and is connected to the electrical
side of the mechanical-electrical interface block.
Custom machine model (in subcircuit form)
Wm
Mechanical
speed
4.9.5 Speed/Torque Sensors

A speed sensor or torque sensor is used to measure the mechanical speed or torque.
Images:
Speed Sensor Torque Sensor
Attribute:
Gain Gain of the sensor
The output of the speed sensor is in rpm.

The output of the speed/torque sensor depends on how the sensor is connected in a mechanical system.
For the speed sensor, if the sensor is along the reference direction of the mechanical system (refer to Section
2.8.1 for more details on the definition and use of the reference direction), a positive mechanical speed would
give a positive sensor output. Otherwise, if the sensor is opposite to the reference direction of the mechanical
system, a positive mechanical speed would give a negative sensor output.
For example, in the mechanical system below, Speed Sensor 1 is along the reference direction, and Speed
Sensor 2 is opposite to the reference direction of the mechanical system. If the actual mechanical speed is
positive, the output of Speed Sensor 1 will be positive, and the output of Speed Sensor 2 will be negative.
Reference direction of the mechanical system
Speed Sensor 1 Speed Sensor 2
The torque sensor measures the torque difference between the dotted side of the sensor and the undotted side.
To understand the physical meaning of the torque sensor measurement, we use the diagram below as an
illustration.
The figure on the left shows a torque sensor connected with a 10-N*m mechanical load, and the reference
direction of the mechanical system is from left to right. Based on the reference direction, if we use the right-
hand method, by pointing the thumb in the reference direction and rotating the right hand, the direction of the
fingers will show the direction of the positive speed and torque. The physical interpretation of the system is
shown on the right.
Reference direction of the mechanical system Physical interpretation
10 Wm Load
10
Torque sensor
In this case, the direction of the positive speed and torque is in the clockwise direction. The dotted side of the
sensor is on the left, and the load is in such a way that it tries to slow down the shaft (the load torque is in the
counter-clockwise direction).
The physical meaning of the torque sensor is that, if the dotted side of the sensor is fixed, the sensor will
measure the torque tension on the undotted side of the sensor, and a positive sensor output would mean that the
torque is opposite to the direction of the speed reference. Therefore, for the example above, the positive speed
reference is in the clockwise direction, and the load torque is in the counter-clockwise direction. This will give a
torque sensor reading of 10 N*m.
Similarly, if the undotted side of the sensor is fixed, the sensor will measure the torque tension on the dotted
side of the sensor, in the positive direction of the speed reference. For example, in the system below, the torque
sensor is flipped with the dotted side on the right. If the undotted side is fixed, the load torque is applied to the
dotted side of the sensor, in the opposite direction of the speed reference. The torque sensor output will be -10
N*m instead.
Reference direction of the mechanical system Physical interpretation

*
10 Wm Load
10
Torque sensor
To understand how the torque sensor is modeled in the equivalent circuit of the mechanical system, we use the

following system as an example.
Load 1 Load 2
Sensor 1 Sensor 2
Tem TL1 TL2

J JL1 JL2
The system consists of one machine, 2 torque sensors, and 2 mechanical loads. The torques and moment of
inertia for the machine and the loads are as labelled in the diagram. The reference direction of this mechanical
system is from left to right. The equation for this system can be written as:
d
( J + J L 1 + J L 2 ) --------m- = T em T L 1 T L 2
dt
The equivalent electrical circuit of the equation is shown below:
Sensor 1 Sensor 2
m
Tem J -TL1 JL1 -TL2 JL2
Machine Load 1 Load 2
The node voltage in the circuit represents the mechanical speed m. The current probe on the left represents the
reading of the Torque Sensor 1. Similarly, the current probe on the right represents the reading of the Torque
Sensor 2. Note that the second current probe is from right to left since Sensor 2 is opposite to the reference
direction of the mechanical system.
The equivalent circuit also illustrates how mechanical power is transferred. The multiplication of the current to
the voltage, which is the same as the torque times the mechanical speed, represents the mechanical power. If the
power is positive, it is transferred in the direction of the speed m.
4.9.6 Position Sensors

Four types of position sensors are provided: absolute encoder, incremental encoder, resolver, and hall effect
position sensor. They are connected to the mechanical shaft, similar to the speed sensor and torque sensor, and
the output signals are control signals.
4.9.6.1 Absolute Encoder

An absolute encoder is a position sensor that provides the shaft position within a 360o range (mechanical
degree).
Image:

Attribute:
Initial Position (deg.) Initial shaft position, in deg.
No. of Bits of Resolution Number of Bits of resolution N
The encoder output resolution is determined by the number of bits N. The encoder has two outputs: one is the
number of counts (the range is from 0 to 2N-1), and the other is the position, in mechanical deg. (the range is
from 0 to 360o).
An example of a PMSM drive system using the absolute encoder is given in the sample file "Absolute Encoder
PMSM Drive.sch".
4.9.6.2 Incremental Encoder

An incremental encoder is a position sensor that produces quadrature outputs which indicate the speed, angle,
and direction of the shaft.
Image:
Attribute:
No. of Lines Number of lines that are in the code pattern of the code disk of the encoder
The two quadrature outputs are A and A (A is the inverse of A), and B and B. They are offset by 90o. In
addition, the encoder provides separate index signal output Z and Z that provide one count per revolution.
An example of an induction motor drive system using the incremental encoder is given in the sample file
"Incremental Encoder INDM Drive.sch".
4.9.6.3 Resolver
A resolver is essentially a rotary transformer with one rotor winding and two stator windings. These two stator
windings, referring to as the COS winding and SIN winding, are located 90o apart.
As the shaft rotates, the output voltages of the COS and SIN windings vary as the cosine and sine functions of
the shaft angle.
Image:
cos+
sin+
cos-
sin-

Attribute:
No. of Poles Number of poles of the resolver
The resolver has four outputs: cos+, cos- (the inverse of cos+), sin+, and sin- (the inverse of sin+). The peak
amplitude of all the outputs is 1.
An example of a PMSM drive system using the resolver is given in the sample file "Resolver PMSM
Drive.sch".
4.9.6.4 Hall Effect Sensor

A hall effect sensor is a type of position sensors that provides three pulses depending on the shaft position. The
sensor consists of a set of semiconductor switches and trigger magnets. The switches open or close when the
magnetic field is higher or lower than a certain threshold value.
Image:
Attribute:
No. of Poles Number of poles of the sensor
The hall effect sensor provides three logic signal outputs A, B, and C, which are spaced 120 electrical deg.
apart.
The hall effect sensor is the same as the built-in hall effect sensor in the brushless dc machine.
Examples of BDCM motor drive systems using the hall effect sensor are given in the "examples" sub-folder of
the PSIM directory.
4.10 Thermal Module

The Thermal Module is an add-on module to the PSIM program. It provides a quick way of estimating the
losses of semiconductor devices (diodes, IGBT, and MOSFET), as well as the core and winding losses of
inductors.
The core of the Thermal Module is the device database. A device database editor is provided to allow users to
add new devices to the database and to manage the database easily. The devices in the database can then be used
in the simulation for the loss calculation.
A database device simulation contains two parts of calculation:
The behavior model of the device is used in the simulation. The behavior model of a switch takes into
account the static characteristics (such as conduction voltage drop, on-state resistance, etc.), but not the
dynamic characteristics (such as turn-on and turn-off transients). The behavior model of an inductor is an
ideal inductor.
Based on the voltage, current, and temperature values from the simulation, for switches, PSIM accesses the
device database and calculates the conduction losses or switching losses. The static characteristics of the

device are updated for the next simulation. For inductors, PSIM accesses the device database and calculates
the core and winding losses.
Loss calculation of inductors takes into account the material characteristics of the device (such as core material,
shape, winding type, size, and air gap, etc.).
Note that the loss calculation is only an approximation, and the accuracy of the results depends on the accuracy
of the device data as well as the proper scaling of the results from the device test condition to the actual circuit
operating conditions. Users should always verify the results with the measurement from experimental setup.
4.10.1 Diode Thermal Model
4.10.1.1 Diode Device in Database

The following information is defined for a diode device in the database:
General Information:
Manufacturer:Device manufacture
Part Number:Manufacturers part number
Package:It can be discrete, dual, or 3-phase bridge package, as shown in the figure below:
Dual Dual Dual 3-phase

Discrete
(Type I) (Type II) (Type (III) Bridge
Psw
Pcond
In the images, beside the diode anode and cathode terminals, there are two extra nodes. The node with a dot is
for the diode conduction losses Pcond, and the node without a dot is for the diode switching losses Psw.
The style of the package (for example, TO-220, TO-247, etc.) can be specified in the Style field.
Absolute Maximum Ratings:
Vrrm,max (V): Peak reverse blocking voltage
IF,max (A): Maximum dc current
Tj,max (oC): Maximum junction temperature
Electrical Characteristics:
Vd vs. IF: Forward conduction voltage drop Vd vs. forward current IF
trr vs. IF: Reverse recovery time trr vs. current IF
Irr vs. IF: Peak reverse recovery current Irr vs. current IF
Qrr vs. IF: Reverse recovery charge Qrr vs. current IF
Err vs. IF: Reverse recovery energy losses Err vs. current IF
Thermal Characteristics:
Rth(j-c): Junction-to-case thermal resistance, in oC/W
Rth(c-s): Case-to-sink thermal resistance, in oC/W
Dimensions and Weight:
Length (mm): Length of the device, in mm
Height (mm): Height of the device, in mm
Weight (g): Weight of the device, in g

Note that the condition "Reverse blocking voltage VR (V)" in characteristics Err vs. IF is used to scale the loss
calculation, and must be entered correctly.
Also, parameters under Absolute Maximum Ratings, Thermal Characteristics, and Dimensions and Weight are
not used in the loss calculation, and are optional.
In addition, the diode forward conduction voltage drop Vd changes depending on the forward current IF. The
new voltage drop is used in the subsequent simulation.
4.10.1.2 Diode Loss Calculation

A diode device in the database can be selected and used in the simulation for loss calculation. A diode in the
Thermal Module library has the following parameters:
Attributes:
Device The specific device selected from the device database
Frequency Frequency, in Hz, under which the losses are calculated
Pcond Calibration Factor The calibration factor Kcond of the conduction losses Pcond
Psw Calibration Factor The calibration factor Ksw of the switching losses Psw
Number of Parallel Number of identical diode devices in parallel
Devices
The parameter Frequency refers to the frequency under which the losses are calculated. For example, if the
device operates at the switching frequency of 10 kHz, and the parameter Frequency is also set to 10 kHz, the
losses will be the values for one switching period. However, if the parameter Frequency is set to 60 Hz, then the
losses will be the value for a period of 60 Hz.
The parameter Pcond Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the conduction losses. For the example, if
the calculated conduction losses before the correction is Pcond_cal, then
Pcond = Kcond * Pcond_cal
Similarly, the parameter Psw Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the switching losses. For the
example, if the calculated switching losses before the correction is Psw_cal, then
Psw = Ksw * Psw_cal
When several identical diodes are in parallel, one should have just one device in the schematic, and set the
correct number of devices in the parameter input. This is because when several identical devices are in parallel
in the schematic, the device currents may not be exactly equal due to small differences in the simulation. When
the number of parallel devices is greater than one, the total current through the group of the parallel devices will
be equally divided among the devices. The total losses are then obtained by multiplying the losses in each
device by the number of parallel devices. The currents flowing out of Nodes Pcond and Psw are the total losses of
all the parallel devices combined.
The voltage at the conduction losses node Pcond or the switching losses node Psw represents the calculated
junction temperature Tj of the diode, and this junction temperature is used when the database curves are used for
loss calculation. If the calculated Tj is between the junction temperatures of two curves, interpolation will be
used. If the calculated Tj is lower than the lowest Tj or higher than the highest Tj in the curves, the curve
corresponding to the lowest or highest Tj will be used. If there is only one curve, that curve is used regardless of
the calculated Tj.
Conduction Losses:
The diode conduction losses are calculated as:
Conduction Losses = Vd * IF

where Vd is the diode voltage drop, and IF is the diode forward current. When the diode is conducting
periodically with an on duty cycle of D, the conduction losses are calculated as:
Conduction Losses = Vd * IF * D
Switching Losses:
In calculating the switching losses, the diode turn-on losses are neglected and are not considered.
The diode turn-off losses due to the reverse recovery is calculated as:
Psw_off = Err * f * VR / VR_datasheet
or
Psw_off = 1/4 * Qrr * VR * f
where Err is the reverse recovery energy losses, Qrr is the reverse recovery charge, f is the frequency as defined
in the input parameter Frequency, VR is the actual reverse blocking voltage, and VR_datasheet is the reverse
blocking voltage in the Err characteristics of the datasheet, defined as "Reverse blocking voltage VR (V)" in the
test conditions.
The reverse recovery charge Qrr is defined as:
Qrr = 1/2 * trr * Irr
Whenever Err is given in the device database, the losses will be calculated based on Err. If Err is not given, the
losses will be calculated based on Qrr. If Qrr is not given, the losses will be calculated based on trr and Irr. If
both are not given, the losses will be treated as 0.
The losses Pcond and Psw, in watts, are represented in the form of currents which flow out of these nodes.
Therefore, to measure and display the losses, an ammeter should be connected between the Pcond or Psw node
and the ground. When they are not used, these two nodes cannot be floating, and must be connected to ground.
Example: Diode Loss Calculation
The circuit below shows a sample circuit that uses the Powerexs discrete diode CS240650 (600V, 50A). The
conduction losses and the switching losses are measured through two ammeters.
Once the information of the losses is available, by building the thermal equivalent circuit, the device junction
temperature can be calculated. This junction temperature is in turn fed back and used in the loss calculation. The
circuit shows a thermal circuit without considering the thermal transient.
Speed
Sensor
4.10.2 IGBT Thermal Model
4.10.2.1 IGBT Device in Database

An IGBT device has three types of packages: discrete, dual, or 6-pack.
For the dual package, both the top and the bottom switches can be IGBTs (full-bridge configuration), or one of
the switches is IGBT and the other is a free-wheeling diode (half-bridge configuration). For the half-bridge dual
IGBT device, since the free-wheeling diode parameters can be different from these of the anti-parallel diode,

this type of device is referred to as the IGBT-Diode device, and is treated as a different type in the simulation.
But for the convenience of discussion, both devices are referred to as the IGBT devices here.
The following information is defined for an IGBT device in the database:
Manufacturer: Device manufacture
Part Number: Manufacturers part number
Package: It can be discrete, dual, or 6-pack, as shown in the figure below
Images:
6-Pack
Discrete Dual Dual (Type I) Dual (Type II)
Q1
Pcond_Q
Psw_Q
Q4
Pcond_D
Psw_D
Q1 Q4
In the images, beside the IGBT and diode terminal nodes, there are four extra nodes from the top to the bottom
(or from the left to the right on the top for the 6-pack package). They are the nodes for transistor conductor
losses Pcond_Q (the node with a circle), for transistor switching losses Psw_Q, for diode conductor losses Pcond_D
(the node with a square), and for diode switching losses Psw_D, respectively.
The style of the package (for example, TO-247, TO-268, etc.) can be specified in the Style field.
Vce,max (V): Maximum collector-emitter voltage
Ic,max (A): Maximum collector current
Electrical Characteristics - Transistor:
Vce(sat) vs. Ic: Collector-emitter saturation voltage Vce(sat) vs. collector current Ic
Eon vs. Ic: Turn-on energy losses Eon vs. collector current Ic
Eoff vs. Ic: Turn-off energy losses Eoff vs. collector current Ic
Electrical Characteristics - Diode (or Anti-Parallel Diode):
Err vs. IF: Reverse recovery energy losses Err vs. current IF
Electrical Characteristics - Free-Wheeling Diode (for IGBT-Diode device only):
Vd vs. IF: Forward conduction voltage drop vs. forward current IF
Err vs. IF: Reverse recovery charge Err vs. current IF
Rth(j-c) (transistor): Transistor junction-to-case thermal resistance, in oC/W

Rth(j-c) (diode): Diode junction-to-case thermal resistance, in oC/W
Width (mm): Width of the device, in mm
Note that the condition "DC bus voltage (V)" in the characteristics Eon vs. Ic and Eoff vs. Ic for transistors, and
the condition "Reverse blocking voltage VR (V)" in the characteristics Err vs. IF for anti-parallel and free-
wheeling diodes, are used to scale the loss calculation, and must be entered correctly.
Also, parameters under Absolute Maximum Ratings, Thermal Characteristics, and Dimensions and Weight are
not used in the loss calculation, and are optional.
In addition, the collector-emitter saturation voltage Vce(sat) of the transistor and the forward conduction voltage
drop Vd of the diode change depending on the currents. The new values are used in the subsequent simulation.
4.10.2.2 IGBT Loss Calculation

An IGBT device in the database can be selected and used in the simulation for loss calculation. An IGBT device
in the Thermal Module library has the following parameters:
Attributes:
Pcond_Q Calibration The calibration factor Kcond_Q of the transistor conduction losses Pcond_Q
Factor
Psw_Q Calibration The calibration factor Ksw_Q of the transistor switching losses Psw_Q
Factor
Pcond_D Calibration The calibration factor Kcond_D of the diode conduction losses Pcond_D
Factor
Psw_D Calibration The calibration factor Ksw_D of the diode switching losses Psw_D
Factor
Number of Parallel Number of identical IGBT devices in parallel
Devices
The parameter Pcond_Q Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the transistor conduction losses. For the
example, if the calculated conduction losses before the correction is Pcond_Q_cal, then
Pcond_Q = Kcond_Q * Pcond_Q_cal
Similarly, the parameter Psw_Q Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the transistor switching losses.
For the example, if the calculated switching losses before the correction is Psw_Q_cal, then
Psw_Q = Ksw_Q * Psw_Q_cal
Parameters Pcond_D Calibration Factor and Psw_D Calibration Factor work in the same way, except that they

are for the diode losses.
When several identical IGBT devices are in parallel, one should have just one device in the schematic, and set
the correct number of devices in the parameter input. This is because when several identical devices are in
parallel in the schematic, the device currents may not be exactly equal due to small differences in the
simulation. When the number of parallel devices is greater than one, the total current through the group of the
parallel devices will be equally divided among the devices. The total losses are then obtained by multiplying the
losses in each device by the number of parallel devices. The currents flowing out of Nodes Pcond_D, Psw_D,
Pcond_Q, and Psw_Q are the total losses of all the parallel devices combined.
The voltage at the conduction losses node Pcond_Q or the switching losses node Psw_Q represents the calculated
junction temperature Tj_Q of the transistor, and the voltage at the conduction losses node Pcond_D or the
switching losses node Psw_D represents the calculated junction temperature Tj_D of the anti-parallel diode, as
shown below.
Transistor junction temperature
Pcond_Q
Psw_Q
Pcond_D
Psw_D
Diode junction temperature
The calculated junction temperatures Tj_Q and Tj_D are used when the database curves are used for loss
calculation. If the calculated junction temperature is between the junction temperatures of two curves,
interpolation will be used. If the calculated junction temperature is lower than the lowest junction temperature
or higher than the highest junction temperature in the curves, the curve corresponding to the lowest or highest
junction temperature will be used. If there is only one curve, that curve is used regardless of the calculated
junction temperature.
Conduction Losses:
The transistor conduction losses is calculated as:
Transistor Conduction Losses = Vce(sat) * Ic
where Vce(sat) is the transistor collector-emitter saturation voltage, and Ic is the collector current. When the
transistor is conducting periodically with an on duty cycle of D, the conduction losses are calculated as:
Transistor Conduction Losses = Vce(sat) * Ic * D
Switching Losses:
The transistor turn-on losses is calculated as:
Transistor Turn-on Losses = Eon * f * Vcc / Vcc_datasheet
where Eon is the transistor turn-on energy losses, f is the frequency as defined in the input parameter Frequency,
Vcc is the actual dc bus voltage, and Vcc_datasheet is the dc bus voltage in the Eon and Eoff characteristics of the
datasheet, defined as "DC bus voltage (V)" in the test conditions.
The transistor turn-off losses is calculated as:
Transistor Turn-off Losses = Eoff * f * Vcc / Vcc_datasheet
where Eoff is the transistor turn-off energy losses.
The loss calculation for the anti-parallel diode or free-wheeling diode is the same as described in the section for
the diode device.
The losses Pcond_Q, Psw_Q, Pcond_D, and Psw_D, in watts, are represented in the form of currents which flow out
of these nodes. Therefore, to measure and display the losses, an ammeter should be connected between the
nodes and the ground. When they are not used, these nodes cannot be floating and must be connected to ground.

Example: IGBT Loss Calculation
The circuit below shows a sample circuit that uses Powerexs 6-pack IGBT module CM100TU-12H (600V,
100A). The conduction losses and the switching losses of the transistors and the diodes are added separately,
and a thermal equivalent circuit is provided to calculate the temperature raise.
With the Thermal Module, users can quickly check the thermal performance of a device under different
operating conditions, and compare the devices of different manufactures.
4.10.3 MOSFET Thermal Model
4.10.3.1 MOSFET Device in Database

The following information is defined for a MOSFET device in the database:
Manufacturer: Device manufacture
Part Number: Manufacturers part number
Package: Discrete, dual, or 6-pack, as shown in the figure below:
Images:
Discrete Dual 6-Pack
(n-channel) (p-channel)
Pcond_Q
Q1
Psw_Q
Pcond_D Q4
Psw_D
Q1 Q4

In the images, beside the MOSFET and diode terminal nodes, there are four extra nodes from the top to the
bottom (or from the left to the right on the top for the 6-pack package). They are the node for transistor
conductor losses Pcond_Q (the node with a circle), for transistor switching losses Psw_Q, for diode conductor
losses Pcond_D (the node with a square), and for diode switching losses Psw_D, respectively.
The style of the package (for example, TO-220, TO-262, TO-247, etc.) can be specified in the Style field.
VDS,max (V): Maximum drain-to-source voltage
ID,max (A): Maximum continuous drain current
Electrical Characteristics - Transistor:
RDS(on) (ohm): Drain-to-source on-resistance RDS(on)_b at the test conditions (test conditions:
junction temperature Tj_b in oC (usually 25 oC), gate-to-source voltage VGS in V, and drain current
ID in A)
Temperature Coefficient: Temperature coefficient KT of the on-resistance, in 1/oC
VGS(th) (V): Gate threshold voltage VGS(th) (test condition: drain current ID in A)
gfs (S): Forward transconductance gfs. In the linear region of the device, we have
ID
g fs = ----------------------------
- (test conditions: drain-to-source voltage VDS in V, and drain current ID in A)
V GS V GS ( th )
tr (ns) and tf (ns): Rise time tr and fall time tf (test conditions: drain-to-source voltage VDS in V; drain
current ID in A; and gate resistance Rg in ohm)
Qg, Qgs, and Qgd: Total gate charge Qg, gate-to-source charge Qgs, and gate-to-drain ("Miller")
charge Qgd, respectively, all in nC (test conditions: drain-to-source voltage VDS in V; gate-to-
source voltage VDS in V; and drain current ID in A)
Ciss, Coss, and Crss: Input capacitance Ciss, output capacitance Coss, and reverse transfer capacitance
Crss, respectively, all in pF (test conditions: drain-to-source voltage VDS in V; gate-to-source
voltage VDS in V; and test frequency in MHz)
Electrical Characteristics - Diode:
trr and Qrr: Reverse recovery time trr in ns, and reverse recovery charge Qrr in uC (test
conditions: forward current IF in A; rate of change of the current di/dt in A/us, and junction
temperature Tj in oC)
Rth(j-c): Junction-to-case thermal resistance, in oC/W
Width (mm): Width of the device, in mm
Note that the parameters under Absolute Maximum Ratings, Thermal Characteristics, and Dimensions and
Weight, and the rise time tr and fall time tf parameters, are not used in the loss calculation, and are optional.
The MOSFET on-resistance is a function of the transistor junction temperature. The voltage at the node Pcond_Q
or Psw_Q of the MOSFET image represents the calculated transistor junction temperature Tj in oC. For example,
a voltage value of 25V would mean a junction temperature of 25oC. The on-resistance of the MOSFET is
expressed as:

R ( DS ) on = R ( DS ) on _ b ( 1 + K T ( T j T j _ b ) )
The temperature coefficient is calculated as:

R
( DS ) on
-------------------- 1
R ( DS ) on _ b
KT = -----------------------------
-
Tj Tj _ b
The base values are normally obtained at the test conditions of 25oC. Using the normalized value of RDS(on)
based on the base value, we have:
R ( DS ) on _normalized 1
K T = -----------------------------------------------
-
T j 25
The on-resistance RDS(on) is calculated at every time step and is used in the simulation.
Also, the forward conduction voltage drop Vd of the diode changes depending on the current. The new
conduction voltage value is used in the simulation.
4.10.3.2 MOSFET Loss Calculation

A MOSFET device in the database can be selected and used in the simulation for loss calculation. A MOSFET
in the Thermal Module library has the following parameters:
Attributes:
VGG+ (upper level) Upper level of the gate source voltage, in V
VGG- (lower level) Lower level of the gate source voltage, in V
Rg_on (turn-on) Gate resistance during turn-on
Rg_off (turn-off) Gate resistance during turn-off. In most cases, the turn-on gate resistance Rg_on
and the turn-off gate resistance Rg_off are identical.
RDS(on) Calibration Factor The calibration factor of the on-state resistance RDS(on)
gfs Calibration Factor The calibration factor of the forward transconductance gfs
Pcond_Q Calibration Factor The calibration factor Kcond_Q of the transistor conduction losses Pcond_Q
Psw_Q Calibration Factor The calibration factor Ksw_Q of the transistor switching losses Psw_Q
Pcond_D Calibration Factor The calibration factor Kcond_D of the diode conduction losses Pcond_D
Psw_D Calibration Factor The calibration factor Ksw_D of the diode switching losses Psw_D
Number of Parallel Devices Number of identical devices in parallel
The parameter Pcond_Q Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the transistor conduction losses. For the
example, if the calculated conduction losses before the correction is Pcond_Q_cal, then
Pcond_Q = Kcond_Q * Pcond_Q_cal

Similarly, the parameter Psw_Q Calibration Factor is the correction factor for the transistor switching losses.
For the example, if the calculated switching losses before the correction is Psw_Q_cal, then
Psw_Q = Ksw_Q * Psw_Q_cal
Parameters Pcond_D Calibration Factor and Psw_D Calibration Factor work in the same way. except that they
are for the diode losses.
When several identical MOSFET devices are in parallel, one should have just one device in the schematic, and
set the correct number of devices in the parameter input. This is because when several identical devices are in
parallel in the schematic, the device currents may not be exactly equal due to small differences in the
simulation. When the number of parallel devices is greater than one, the total current through the group of the
parallel devices will be equally divided among the devices. The total losses are then obtained by multiplying the
losses in each device by the number of parallel devices. The currents flowing out of Nodes Pcond_D, Psw_D,
Pcond_Q, and Psw_Q are the total losses of all the parallel devices combined.
The voltage at the diode loss node Pcond_D or Psw_D of the MOSFET image represents the calculated junction
temperature Tj of the anti-parallel diode, and this junction temperature is used when the database curves are
used for determining the forward conduction diode voltage drop. If the calculated Tj is between the junction
temperatures of two curves, interpolation will be used. If the calculated Tj is lower than the lowest Tj or higher
than the highest Tj in the curves, the curve corresponding to the lowest or highest Tj will be used. If there is only
one curve, that curve is used regardless of the calculated Tj.
Conduction Losses:
The transistor conduction losses is calculated as:
Transistor Conduction Losses = ID2 * RDS(on)
where ID is the drain current, and RDS(on) is the static on-resistance. When the transistor is conducting
periodically with an on duty cycle of D, the conduction losses are calculated as:
Transistor Conduction Losses = ID2 * RDS(on)* D
Switching Losses:
The transistor turn-on losses is calculated as:
Transistor Turn-on Losses = Eon * f
where Eon is the transistor turn-on energy losses, and f is the frequency as defined in the input parameter
Frequency.
The transistor turn-off losses is calculated as:
Transistor Turn-off Losses = Eoff * f
where Eoff is the transistor turn-off energy losses.
The energy losses Eon and Eoff are calculated using the rise times and the fall times of the voltage and current
waveforms based on the information of the MOSFET gate current, input/output/reverse transfer capacitances,
and gate charges.
Please note that the gate charge losses are not included in the switching losses above. The gate charge losses are
usually quite small compared to the turn-on/turn-off switching losses, and can be neglected in the full load
conditions. However, they can become substantial in the light load conditions. To calculate the gate charge
losses Ploss_Qg:
Ploss_Qg = Qg* VGG * fsw
where Qg is the total gate charge, VGG is the gate source voltage, and fsw is the switching frequency.
Also, the MOSFET device must be properly selected to ensure that it is sufficiently rated to conduct the current.
If the MOSFET current rating is too low, PSIM will not be able to calculate the switching rise/fall times and will
give an error message. In simulation, the maximum drain-to-source current that a MOSFET device is allowed to

conduct is:
Io,max = gfs * (VGG - VGS(th))
If the current exceeds Io,max, one should either increase the gate source voltage level or select another MOSFET
device with a larger forward transconductance value.
The loss calculation for the anti-parallel diode or free-wheeling diode is the same as described in the diode
device section.
The losses Pcond_Q, Psw_Q, Pcond_D, and Psw_D, in watts, are represented in the form of currents which flow out
of these nodes. Therefore, to measure and display the losses, an ammeter should be connected between the
nodes and the ground. When they are not used, these nodes cannot be floating and must be connected to ground.
4.10.4 Inductor Thermal Model
4.10.4.1 Inductor in Database

The following information is defined for an inductor in the database:
Manufacturer: Inductor manufacture
Part Number: Inductor manufacturers part number
Package: Only the basic package is available.
Image:
Pcore Pwinding
Electrical Characteristics:
L (uH): Inductance, in uH
Maximum Ratings:
Imax,rms (A): Maximum rms current rating, in A.
Core Information:
Core Type and Size: Specify core shape and size
Core Material: Specify core material and magnetic characteristics
Winding Information:
Winding Type and Size: Specify conductor shape, size, and insulation type
Winding Distribution: Specify winding number of turns, layers, distance between layers, distance
between wires, and distance between core and winding
Distribution of Parallel Wires: Specify parallel wire distribution in radial and height directions
Gap Information:
Gap Data: Specify the number of gaps and the length of each gap.
A new inductor can be added to the database by selecting Device >> New Inductor. Databases of core
materials, cores, and winding can be added and edited by selecting Device >> Edit Inductor Core Database,
Edit Winding Database, and Edit Core Material Database.
4.10.4.2 Inductor Loss Calculation

A database inductor can be selected and used in the simulation for loss calculation. An inductor in the Thermal
Module library has the following parameters:

Attributes:
Device The specific inductor selected from the device database.
Frequency Fundamental frequency of the inductor, in Hz.
Temperature Flag The flag that defines how core temperature is defined. It can be either
Calculated or Fixed. If it is Calculated, the core temperature will be
calculated based on circuit operating conditions and this temperature will
be used for loss calculation. If it is Fixed, the core temperature will be
specified by users. This will give users a clear idea the losses at a specific
temperature.
Ambient Temperature The ambient temperature of the inductor, in oC.
Convection Type of cooling. It can be Forced for forced convection or Natural for
natural convection.
Air Speed The air speed, in m/sec., if forced convection is selected.
Estimated Core Temp. Estimated core temperature, in oC, if the Temperature Flag is set to Fixed.
Estimated Winding Temp. Estimated winding temperature, in oC, if the Temperature Flag is set to
Fixed.
Loss Calculation Flag If the flag is 0, the loss calculation will be performed from the beginning of
the simulation. If the flag is 1, the loss calculation will be performed only in
the last fundamental cycle of the simulation. Since loss calculation will
slow down simulation, calculating the losses only in the last cycle will
speed up the simulation.
Current Flag Display flag of the inductor current.
The losses Pcore and Pwinding, in watts, are represented in the form of currents which flow out of the nodes. To
measure and display the losses, an ammeter should be connected between the nodes and the ground. When they
are not used, these nodes cannot be floating and must be connected to ground.
In the parameters, Frequency refers to the main frequency under which the inductor is excited. For example, if
an inductor conducts a 60-Hz current in an ac circuit which also has 20kHz switching harmonic components,
the frequency should be set to 60 Hz. If an inductor conducts dc current in a dc circuit which has 20kHz
switching harmonic components, the frequency should be set to 20kHz.
For more information on how to use the Thermal Module inductor, please refer to the tutorial "Tutorial -
Inductor loss calculation in Thermal Module.pdf".
4.10.5 Device Database Editor

The device database editor, PcdEditor.exe, provides an easy and convenient way of adding, editing, and
managing devices.
Pull down PSIMs Utilities menu, an image of the database editor is shown below.

Device
database
files
Device
information
Device
list
On the left are the device database files that are loaded into the database editor, and the list of the devices. The
devices can be displayed based on either Device Type or Manufacturer. Also, the device list can be sorted by
Part Number, Voltage rating, or Current rating, by clicking on the title bars of the list.
To create a new device file, choose File >> New Device File.
To load a device files into the editor, choose File >> Open Device File.
To unload a device file from the editor, choose File >> Close Device File.
On the right is the information of each device. In general, the following information is required to define a
switching device for thermal simulation:
- Manufacturer and Part Number
- Package type and style
- Absolute maximum ratings
- Electrical characteristics
- Thermal characteristics
- Dimension and weight
The following information are required to define a database inductor for thermal simulation.
- Manufacturer and Part Number
- Package type and style
- Maximum ratings
- Electrical characteristics
- Core, winding, and gap information
Five types of elements can be added to a database device file: inductor and four types of switching devices:
diode, IGBT, dual IGBT-diode modules, and MOSFET.
To create a new device, go to the Device menu, and choose either New Diode, New IGBT, New IGBT-Diode,
New MOSFET, or New Inductor.
To make a copy of an existing device in the same database file, highlight the device in the list, and choose
Device >> Save Device As.

To make a copy of an existing device and save it in a different database file, first highlight the device in the list,
then highlight the file name in the File Name list, and choose Device >> Save Device As.
4.10.6 Adding a Switching Device to Database

The step-by-step procedure is illustrated with an example: add Powerex discrete diode CS240650 (600V, 50A)
into a new device database file "diode_new.dev".
Create new device file: Launch PcdEditor.exe. Go to File >> New Device File, and create a file called
"diode_new.dev". This file will be placed in the device sub-folder under the PSIM program folder by
default.
Create new device: With the file name "diode_new" highlighted in the "File Name" list, Choose Device >>
New Diode. A diode will be added to the database file with Manufacturer as "New" and Part Number as
"New".
Enter basic information: Obtain the datasheet of Powerex diode CS240650 from the web site
www.pwrx.com. By referring to the information from the datasheet, in the database editor, enter the follow-
ing information for this device:
Manufacturer:Powerex
Part Number:CS240650
Package:Discrete
and under Absolute Maximum Ratings:
Vrrm,max (V):600
IF,max (A):50
Tj,max (oC):150
Define forward voltage characteristics Vd vs. IF:
Under Electrical Characteristics by clicking on the Edit button on top of the Vd vs. IF graph area. The
following dialog window will appear.
Graph
wizard
icons
Help area
X and Y
axis settings
Data area
X/Y axis
multiplying
factor
Graph area
The dialog window has two pages: Graph and Conditions.

The Graph page contains thee x and y axis settings as well as the data points and the graph. In this case, the y
axis is the conduction voltage drop Vd, and the x axis is the forward current IF. The x and y axis can have

multiplying factors (such as m for 10-3, u for 10-6, etc.).
The Conditions page contains the conditions under which the graph is obtained.
There are two ways to define the graph:
- Enter the graph data points manually if there are only a few data points
- Use the Graph Wizard to capture the graph directly from the datasheet image if the graph image is available
from datasheet.
To Define the Graph Manually:
On the datasheet, refer to the "Maximum On-State Characteristics", and enter the values for the x/y axis set-
tings as follows:
X0: 1
Xmax: 1000
Y0: 0.6
Ymax: 2.6
X in log:checked
Visually inspect the graph, and select a few data points. Enter the data points in the data area as follows, then
click on the Refresh button to display the graph.:
(1,0.7) (10,1.05) (100,1.8) (200,2.2) (300,2.4)
Click on the Conditions tab and enter the Junction Temperature as 25 oC.
Alternatively, the graph can be defined in this case using the Graph Wizard.
To Define the Graph Using the Graph Wizard:
Click on the Add Curve button. Then click on the forward wizard icon to start the Graph Wizard.
Display the graph of the datasheet on the screen as follows, then press the Print Screen key (the key is
labeled as "Prnt Scr" on some keyboards) to copy the screen image to the clipboard.
Click on the forward wizard icon to paste the screen image into the graph window in the database editor.
Position the graph image properly in the graph window by dragging the left mouse so that the complete
graph is displayed within the window.
If the graph image is either too large or too small, go back to the previous step by clicking on the backward
wizard icon. Then resize the image of the graph in the Adobe Acrobat, and copy the screen image to the
clipboard again.

The graph dialog window should look something like follows. Click on the forward wizard icon to move on
to the next step.
Opposite
end of the
origin
Origin
of the
graph
In this step, the border of the graph area is defined by first left clicking at the origin of the graph (usually the
lower left corner), then left clicking again at the opposite corner of the origin (usually the upper right cor-
ner). Note that the graph origin does not have to be the lower left corner, and it can be any one of the four
corners.
To locate the origin of the corner more accurately, right mouse click to zoom in, and press the Esc (escape)
key to exit the zoom. After this, a blue rectangle will appear around the border of the graph, and the dialog
window will appear as follows.
Data
Points

Then click on the forward wizard icon to move on to the next step.
In this step, the x and y axis settings will be defined. Enter the settings as follows:
X0: 1
Xmax: 1000
Y0: 0.6
Ymax: 2.6
X in log: checked
Leave the checkbox Invert graph unchecked since the diode forward current IF is in the x-axis in this case.
But in other situations, if the current is in y-axis, check the Invert graph checkbox.
Enter the junction temperature as 25 oC. Click on the forward wizard icon to move on to the next step.
Left click on top of the graph to capture the data points. In this case, for example, four data points at the cur-
rent values of around 1A, 10A, 100A, and 280A are captured. Again, right click to zoom in. You can cap-
ture as many data points as desired.
As data points are captured, red lines will appear that will connect the data points.
Then click on the forward wizard icon to complete the data capture process. The final graph dialog window
should appear as follows.
To see the x and y axis values of a particular data point on the graph, place the cursor inside the graph area.
The cursor image will change to a cross image, and the x and y coordinates of the cursor will be displayed
at the upper right corner of the dialog window. Place the cursor on top of the curve to read the x and y axis
readings.
If there are multiple curves for different junction temperatures, repeat the same process and enter the junc-
tion temperature value for each curve accordingly. Use the drop-down menu at the upper right corner of the
dialog window to show one particular curve, or to show all the curves at the same time.
With the same process, define the reverse recovery characteristics trr vs. IF, Irr vs. IF, and Qrr vs. IF.
Enter the Thermal Characteristics as:
Rth(j-c): 0.6
Rth(c-s): 0.4
Enter the Dimension and Weight as:
Length (mm):53
Width (mm):36
Height (mm):29
Choose Device >> Save Device to save the device information. This completes the process of adding the
diode into the database.

4.11 Renewable Energy Module
Renewable Energy Module library contains the following elements:
Solar modules: physical model, functional model, cSi model, and thin-film model;
Wind turbine;
Lithium-Ion battery; and
Super capacitor.
4.11.1 Solar Modules
4.11.1.1 Solar Module - Functional Model

Functional model represents the solar module based on i-v characteristics. Functional model of solar module is
easy to use because it requires only four parameters which can be obtained on any manufacturers datasheet.
Image:
Pmax
In the image, The nodes marked with the "+" and "-" signs are the positive and negative terminals. The node on
the top is theoretical maximum power (in W) given the operating conditions.
While the positive and negative terminal nodes are power circuit nodes, the other nodes are all control circuit
nodes.
Attributes:
Open Circuit Voltage Voc Voltage measured when solar cell terminals are open circuit, in V.
Short Circuit Current Isc Current measured when the solar cell terminals are short circuited, in A.
Maximum Power Voltage Vm Solar cell terminal voltage when the output power is at the maximum, in V
Maximum Power Current Im Solar cell terminal current when the output power is at the maximum, in A
Using the four input parameters, the functional model will create the i-v curve of the solar cell. The figure
below shows the i-v and p-v curves of a typical solar cell.
Current vs. Voltage

Maximum Power Point
Power vs. Voltage
Voltage
The curves show that the solar cell output power reaches the maximum at a specific voltage level. Many control

schemes have been proposed in the literature to track this maximum power point (so called Maximum Power
Point Tracking, or MPPT) so that the solar cell output power is at the maximum.
4.11.1.2 Solar Module - Physical Model

The physical model of solar module simulates the behavior of the solar module with more accuracy because it
takes into account the light intensity and temperature variation.
Image:
Pmax
S
In the image, The nodes with the "+" and "-" signs are the positive and negative terminals. The node with the
letter "S" refers to the light intensity input (in W/m2), and The node with the letter "T" refers to the ambient
temperature input (in oC). The node on the top is theoretical power (in W) given the operating conditions.
nodes.
Attributes
Number of Cells Ns Number of cells Ns of the solar module. A solar module consists of Ns solar
cells in series.
Standard Light Intensity S0 Light intensity S0 under the standard test conditions, in W/m2. The value is
normally 1000 W/m2 in manufacturer datasheet.
Ref. Temperature Tref Temperature Tref under the standard test conditions, in oC
Series Resistance Rs Series resistance Rs of each solar cell, in Ohm
Shunt Resistance Rsh Shunt resistance Rsh of each solar cell, in Ohm
Short Circuit Current Isc0 Short circuit current Isc0 of each solar cell at the reference temperature Tref,
in A
Saturation Current Is0 Diode saturation current Is0 of each solar cell at the reference temperature
Tref, in A
Band Energy Eg Band energy of each solar cell, in eV. It is around 1.12 for crystalline silicon,
and around 1.75 for amorphous silicon.
Ideality Factor A Ideality factor A of each solar cell, also called emission coefficient. It is
around 2 for crystalline silicon, and is less than 2 for amorphous silicon.
Temperature Coefficient Ct Temperature coefficient Ct, in A/oC or A/oK

Coefficient Ks Coefficient ks that defines how light intensity affects the solar cell
temperature.
A solar module consists of Ns solar cells in series, and the equivalent circuit of the physical model of one solar

cell is shown below:
Rs i
+
id ir +
iph vd v/Ns
Rsh
--
--
The equations that describe a solar cell are:

i = i ph i d i r
and
S
i ph = I sc 0 ----- + C t ( T T ref )
S0
qv d
---------
AkT
i d = I 0 e 1

qE g 1 1
-------- ---------- ---
T 3 Ak T ref T
I 0 = I s 0 ---------- e
T ref
v
i r = ------d-
R sh
v
v d = ----- + i R s
Ns
T = Ta + ks S
where q is the electron charge (q = 1.6 x 10-19 C); k is the Boltzmann constant (k = 1.3806505 x 10-23); S is the
light intensity input; Ta is the ambient temperature input; v is the voltage across the entire solar module; and i is
the current flowing out of the positive terminal of the solar module.
Some of the parameters of the physical model can be obtained from manufacturer datasheet, and the rest of the
parameters can be obtained by trial-and-error. A utility tool Solar Module (physical model) under the Utilities

menu is provided to help obtaining the parameters from manufacturer datasheet. The interface of the tool is
shown on the right.
For more details on how to use this tool to obtain the model parameters, please refer to the tutorial Tutorial -
Solar Module (physical module).pdf in the "doc" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
4.11.1.3 Solar Module - cSi and Thin-File Models

The solar modules cSi (Crystalline Silicon) and Thin-Film models are developed according to EN50530
Standard. Only three parameters are needed. This is because material related data are already included in the v-
i characteristic equations in these models.
Images:
EN50530 (cSi) EN50530 (thin film)
S S
T T
In the image, the nodes marked with the "+" and "-" signs are the positive and negative terminals. The node with
the letter "S" refers to the light intensity input (in W/m2), and The node with the letter "T" refers to the ambient
temperature input (in oC).
nodes.
Attributes:
Maximum Power Solar cell maximum output power, in W.
Maximum Power Voltage Solar cell terminal voltage when the output power is at the maximum, in V
Test Condition Temperature Test condition temperature, in degree C.
The current-voltage characteristic of cSi and thin-film models equations are:
( Vpv + IpvRs ) ( mVr )
I pv = I ph I 0 ( e 1 ) ( V pv + I pv R s ) R p
Where,
Vpv
---------
3 Vr
I 0 = C 0 T mod e
and
kT mod
V T = ------------
-
e0
Linear temperature model for the module temperature:

c
T mod = T + ----------------- G
W
1000 ----2-
m
In the above equations:
Ipv Module current
I0 Diode saturation current
Iph Photo current (source current)

Vpv Module voltage
Vt Temperature voltage
Vgap bandgap
Rs serial resistance
Rp Parallel resistance
T Absolute ambient temperature (K)
Tmod Module temperature (K)
G (Irradiance (W/m2)
c Constant for the linear temperature model
C0 Coefficient of diode saturation current
m diode factor
e0 Elementary charge
k Boltzmann constant.
The technology dependable parameters providing the v-i curve of this model are listed in the table below:
cSi Thin Film Tolerance
V mpp 2
G = 200 ( W m ) 0.95 0.98 +/- 1%
---------------------------------------
-
V mpp 2
G = 1000 ( W m )
V mppSTC
-----------------
V ocSTC 0.8 0.72 < 1%
I mppSTC
----------------- 0.9 0.8 < 1%
I scSTC
PV generator model for MPPT performance tests:

MPP to open circuit voltage ratio:
V mppSTC
FF V = ----------------
-
V ocSTC
MPP to short circuit current ratio:

I mppSTC
FF I = ----------------
-
I scSTC
Formula for the PV current as a function of PV voltage:

V pv
---------------
V oc C AG
-

I pv = I sc e 1

Irradiance G and temperature T dependent short circuit current:
G
I sc = I scSTC ---------- [ 1 + ( T pv T STC ) ]
G STC
Irradiance and temperature dependent open circuit voltage:

G
V OC = V ocSTC ( 1 + ( T pv T STC ) ) ln ----- + 1 C v ( C R G )
CG
Where the temperature of the PV generator should follow the ambient conditions as follows:
k
T PV = T amb + T 0 + ------------------- G
1+s
where
TPV Computed PV generator temperature;

Tamb Ambient temperature;
T0 Correction temperature (T0 = -30 oC);
k Irradiance gain (k = 0.03 km2/W);
Time constant ( = 5 minutes);
Temperature coefficient of the current;
Temperature coefficient of the voltage;
CR, CV, CG Technology depending correction factor
Irradiance dependent current I0 is given as:
G
I 0 = I scSTC ( 1 FF I ) ----------
[ 1 ( 1 FF V ) ]
G STC
Constant CAQ is given as:

FF V 1
C AQ = ----------------------------
-
ln ( 1 FF I )
Voltage ratio from VMPP at an irradiance of 200W/m2 to VMPP at an irradiance of 1000W/m2 is given as:
V MPP 2
G = 200 ( W m )
V L 2 H = ---------------------------------------
-
V MPP 2
G = 1000 ( W m )
The parameters of the PV generator model must be set as listed in the table below:
cSi Thin-Film Tolerance
FFV 0.8 0.72 < 1%
FFI 0.9 0.8 < 1%
CG [W/m2] 2.514E-03 1.252E-03 -
CV 8.593E-02 8.419E-02 -
CR [m2/W] 1.088E-04 1.476E-04 -
VL2H 0.95 0.98 1 %
0.04 0.02
-0.4 -0.2
4.11.2 Wind Turbine

The image and parameter of the wind turbine are described below.
Image:
Wind Turbine
Wind Speed
Wind Turbine Shaft
Pitch Angle

Attributes:
Nominal Output Power The maximum output power of the wind turbine, in W, at 0o pitch angle. This
power is considered as the maximum power operating point of the turbine, and
it should not exceed the rated power of the generator.
Base Wind Speed The base wind speed that would produce the nominal output power, in m/s
Base Rotational Speed The base rotational speed of the turbine that would produce the nominal output
power, in rpm
Initial Rotational Speed The initial rotational speed of the turbine, in rpm
Moment of Inertia Moment of inertia of the wind turbine blade, in kg*m2
Torque Flag Flag to display the internal torque of the wind turbine (0: no display; 1:
display)
Master/Slave Flag Master/slave flag for the connected mechanical system (0: slave; 1: master)
In the image, the node with the letter "w" is for the wind speed input in m/s, and the node with the letter "p" is
for the blade pitch angle input in deg. Both nodes are control circuit nodes.
The power generated by a wind turbine can be expressed as:
1 3
P = --- A v wind C p
2
2), vwind is the wind speed (in m/sec.), is the air density (it is
where A is the area of the rotor blade (in m
3),
approximately 1.225 kg/m and Cp is the power coefficient. The power coefficient Cp is a function of the tip
speed ratio and the blade pitch angle . It can be expressed as [Heier1]:
x c6
Cp = c1 ( c2 c3 c4 c5 ) e + c7
where c1 = 0.5, c2 = 116*', c3 = 0.4, c4 = 0, c5 = 5, c6 = 21*', c7 = 0.01*, and

m R blade
= -------------------------
v wind
1 0.035
= ------------------------- --------------
-
+ 0.08 3 + 1
where m is the rotor rotational speed (in rad/sec.) and Rblade is the radius of the rotor blade (in m).
The relationship between the power coefficient Cp and the tip speed ratio and the blade pitch angle can be
plotted in the figure below.
1. S. Heier and R. Waddington, Grid Integration of Wind Energy Conversion Systems, Wiley, 2006

Cp_1 Cp_2 Cp_3
0.50
=0
0.40
=5
0.30
Cp 0.20 =10
0.10
0.0
0.0 5.00 10.00 15.00

lambda_1
The figure shows that the power coefficient Cp reaches the maximum of 0.49 when the tip speed ratio is 8.18.
We choose the values of Cp and at the maximum as the nominal values, i.e., Cp_nom = 0.49, nom = 8.18. One
way to control the wind turbine, therefore, is to maintain the tip speed ratio at or close to the nominal value so
that the power that the wind turbine generates is at the maximum.
Several elements related to renewable energy applications are included here.
4.11.3 Lithium-Ion Battery Model

A lithium-ion battery model is provided. It comes with two images: one with the battery image, and the other
with the battery cell symbol image.
Images:
SOC
SOC
Attributes:
No. of Cells in Series Number of cells Ns in series of a battery pack
No. of Cells in Parallel Number of cells Np in parallel of a battery pack
Voltage Derating Factor Voltage derating factor Ks, from 0 (100% derating) to 1 (no derating)
Capacity Derating Factor Capacity derating factor Kp, from 0 (100% derating) to 1 (no derating)
Rated Voltage Rated voltage Erated of the battery cell, in V
Discharge Cut-off Voltage Battery voltage Ecut corresponding to the maximum capacity, in V
Rated Capacity Rated capacity Qrated of the battery cell, in Ah
Internal Resistance Internal resistance Rbattery of the battery cell, in Ohm
Full Voltage Full (or maximum) voltage Efull of the battery cell, in V
Exponential Point Voltage Battery voltage Etop at the end of the exponential region in the discharge curve,
in V

Nominal Voltage Battery voltage Enom at the end of the nominal region in the discharge curve, in
V
Maximum Capacity Maximum capacity Qmax of the battery cell, in Ah
Exponential Point Capacity Battery capacity Qtop at the end of the exponential region in the discharge
curve, in Ah
Nominal Capacity Battery capacity Qnom at the end of the nominal region in the discharge curve,
in Ah
Initial State of Charge Initial state of charge (SOC) (from 0 to 1)
In the images, the extra node at the top of the battery image or at the side of the battery cell symbol image is for
the SOC output. It is a control circuit node.
Note that the battery parameters are all for one battery cell, while the model can be used to define a battery pack
where the number of cells in series or in parallel is not 1. For a battery pack, all voltages need to be multiplied
by Ns*Ks, all capacities by Np*Kp, and the resistance by Ns/Np. For example, for the entire battery pack:
E rated_total = N s K s E rated
E cut_total = N s K s E cut
E full_total = N s K s E full
E top_total = N s K s E top
E nom_total = N s K s E nom
Q rated_total = N p K p Q rated
Q max_total = N p K p Q max
Q top_total = N p K p Q top
Q nom_total = N p K p Q nom
N
R battery_total = ----s- R battery
Np
For a detailed description on how to define and use the lithium-ion battery model, please refer to the document
"Tutorial - How to use Lithium-Ion battery model.pdf".
4.11.4 Ultracapacitor Model

Ultracapacitors are electrical energy storage devices that offer high power density and a high number of charge
and discharge cycles.
Images:
Attributes:
Number of Cells in Series Number of cells in series
Number of Cells in Parallel Number of cells in parallel
Capacitance per Cell Nominal capacitance per cell, in F.
Coefficient Kv Voltage coefficient
Resistance R1 Resistance coefficient R1, in Ohm
Capacitance C1 Capacitance coefficient C1, in F

Resistance R4 Resistance coefficient R4, in Ohm.
Maximum Voltage Maximum voltage rating per cell, in V
Initial Voltage Initial capacitor voltage per cell, in V
Parameters Kv, R1, and C1 are associated with the capacitor response in the short term (in seconds.).
Parameters R2 and C2 are associated with the response in the medium term (in minutes. Parameters R3 and C3
are associated with the response in the long term (in hundreds of minutes). The parameter R4 is associated with
capacitor losses due to self-discharge.
For further information on how to use the model, please refer to the tutorial "Tutorial - Ultracapacitor
model.pdf".

5
Control Circuit Components
This chapter provides descriptions for the components in PSIMs element library.
5.1 Transfer Function Blocks

A transfer function block is expressed in polynomial form as:
n 2
B n s + ... + B 2 s + B 1 s + B 0
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
n 2
-
A n s + ... + A 2 s + A 1 s + A 0
Two types of transfer function blocks are provided: one with zero initial values (the element is called s-domain
Transfer Function in the PSIM library) and the other with initial values as input parameters (called s-domain
Transfer Function (initial value) in the PSIM library).
Image:
Attributes:
Order n Order n of the transfer function
Gain Gain k of the transfer function
Coeff. Bn...Bo Coefficients of the numerator (from Bn to Bo)
Coeff. An...Ao Coefficients of the denominator (from An to Ao)
Initial Values xn..x1 Initial values of the state variables xn to x1 (for the element s-domain Transfer
Function (initial value) only)
Let Y(s) = G(s)*U(s) where Y(s) is the output and U(s) is the input, we can convert the s-domain expression into
the differential equation form as follows:
x1 0 0 0 ... 0 A0 An x1 B0 A0 Bn An
x2 1 0 0 ... 0 A1 An x2 B1 A1 Bn An
d
------ x k
= 0 1 0 ... 0 A2 An x3 + ----- B2 A2 Bn An u
dt 3 An
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
xn 0 0 0 ... 1 A n 1 A n xn Bn 1 An 1 Bn An
The output equation in the time domain can be expressed as:

B
y = x n + k ----n- u
An
The initial values of the state variables xn to x1 can be specified as the inputs in the element s-domain Transfer
Function (initial value).
Example:
The following is a second-order transfer function:
Chapter 5: Control Circuit Components 149

3
400. e
G ( s ) = 1.5 ------------------------------------------------------
2
-
3
s + 1200 s + 400. e
In PSIM, the specification will be:
Order n 2
Gain 1.5
Coeff. Bn...Bo 0. 0. 400.e3
Coeff. An...Ao 1. 1200. 400.e3
5.1.1 Proportional Controller

The output of a proportional (P) controller is equal to the input multiplied by a gain.
Image:
Attribute:
Gain Gain k of the transfer function
5.1.2 Integrator
There are three types of integrators: regular integrator, external resettable integrator, and internal resettable
integrator.
Images:
Regular Integrator External Resettable Integrator Internal Resettable Integrator
Attributes:
For Regular Integrator:
Time Constant Time constant T of the integrator, in sec.
Initial Output Value Initial value of the output
For External Resettable Integrator:
Reset Flag Reset flag (0: edge reset; 1: level reset)
150 Chapter 5: Control Circuit Components

For Internal Resettable Integrator:
Lower Output Limit Lower limit of the output
Upper Output Limit Upper limit of the output
The transfer function of an integrator is:
1
G ( s ) = ------
sT
The Bode plot of the amplitude |G| and the phase angle of the integrator is shown as below:
|G|
1/T
0 (rad/sec)
-20dB/dec
-90o
The output of the external resettable integrator can be reset by an external control signal (at the bottom of the
block). For the edge reset (reset flag = 0), the integrator output is reset to zero at the rising edge of the control
signal. For the level reset (reset flag = 1), the integrator output is reset to zero as long as the control signal is
high (1).
The output of the internal resettable integrator is reset to 0 when the output reaches either the lower limit or the
upper limit. It works in the same way as the external resettable integrator with the edge reset, except that in this
case users do not need to set up the external reset circuit.
When a limiter is connected to the integrator output, anti-windup is implemented automatically.
Example:
The following circuit illustrates the use of the resettable integrator. The input of the integrator is a dc quantity.
The control input of the integrator is a pulse waveform which resets the integrator output at the end of each
cycle. The reset flag is set to 0.
Vd
vo
vctrl

5.1.3 Differentiator
The transfer function of a differentiator is:
G ( s ) = sT
A differentiator is calculated as follows:
v in ( t ) v in ( t t )
v o ( t ) = T --------------------------------------------------
t
where t is the simulation time step, vin(t) and vin(t-t) are the input values at the present and the previous time
step.
Image:
Attribute:
Time Constant Time constant T of the differentiator, in sec.
Since sudden changes of the input will generate spikes at the output, it is recommended that a low-pass filter be
placed at the input of the differentiator.
5.1.4 Proportional-Integral Controller

A proportional-integral (PI) controller is defined as below.
Image:
Attributes:
Gain Gain k of the PI controller
Time Constant Time constant T of the PI controller
The transfer function of a PI controller is defined as:
1 + sT
G ( s ) = k ---------------
sT
The Bode plot of the amplitude |G| and the phase angle of the PI controller is shown as below:
|G| -20dB/dec
0 (rad/sec)
1/T
-90o
When a limiter is connected to the PI output, anti-windup is implemented automatically.

5.1.5 Single-Pole Controller
A single-pole controller is a proportional controller with a pole. It is defined as below.
Image:
Attributes:
Gain Gain k of the controller
Pole Frequency Frequency of the pole fc, in Hz
The transfer function of the single-pole is defined as:

c
G ( s ) = k ---------------
s + c
where c = 2 f c .
The Bode plot of the amplitude |G| and the phase angle of the single-pole controller is shown as below:
|G|
-20dB/dec
0 c (rad/sec)
-90o
5.1.6 Modified PI Controller

A modified PI controller (Type-2) consists of a PI with a pole.
Image:
Attributes:
Time Constant Time constant T of the PI portion of the controller
Pole Frequency Frequency of the pole fc, in Hz
The transfer function of a modified PI controller is defined as:

1 + sT 1
G ( s ) = k --------------- ------------------
sT 1 + sT c
1
where T c = ------ and c = 2 f c .
c
The Bode plot of the amplitude |G| and the phase angle of the PI controller is shown as below:

|G| -20dB/dec
0 (rad/sec)
1/T 1/Tc -20dB/dec
-90o
When a limiter is connected to the PI output, anti-windup is implemented automatically.
5.1.7 Type-3 Controller

A Type-3 controller consists of two zeros and two poles.
Image:
Attributes:
Frequency fz1 Frequency fz1 of the first zero, in Hz
Frequency fz2 Frequency fz2 of the second zero, in Hz
Frequency fp1 Frequency fp1 of the first pole, in Hz
Frequency fp2 Frequency fp2 of the second pole, in Hz
The transfer function of a Type-3 controller is defined as:

1 + sT z 1 1 + sT z 2
G ( s ) = k -------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------
-
sT z 1 ( 1 + sT p 1 ) ( 1 + sT p 2 )
1 1 1 1
where T z 1 = -------------- , T z 2 = -------------- , T p 1 = -------------- , and T p 2 = -------------- .
2 f z 1 2 f z 2 2 f p 1 2 f p 2
The Bode plot of the amplitude |G| and the phase angle of the Type-3 controller is shown as below:
|G| -20dB/dec 20dB/dec
0 (rad/sec)
1/Tz1 1/Tz2 1/Tp1 1/Tp2
90o

0
-90o
When a limiter is connected to the controller output, anti-windup is implemented automatically.

5.1.8 Built-in Filter Blocks
Four second-order filters and one first-order filter are provided as built-in blocks in PSIM.
Images:
2nd-order low-pass 2nd-order high-pass 2nd-order band-pass 2nd-order band-stop 1st-order low-pass
Attributes for second-order filters:
Gain Gain k
Damping Ratio Damping ratio

Cut-off Frequency Cut-off frequency fc ( f c = -----c- ) for low-pass and high-pass filters, in Hz
2

Center Frequency Center frequency fo ( f o = -----o- ) for band-pass and band-stop filter, in Hz
2
Passing Band; B
Frequency width fb ( f b = ------ ) of the passing/stopping band for band-pass/band-
Stopping Band 2
stop filters, in Hz
Attributes for first-order low-pass filter:
Gain Gain k

Cut-off Frequency Cut-off frequency fc ( f c = -----c- ) of the low-pass filter, in Hz
2
The transfer function of these filters are listed below.
For second-order low-pass filter:
2
c
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------------
2
-
2
s + 2 c s + c
For second-order high-pass filter:
2
s
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------------
2
-
2
s + 2 c s + c
For second-order band-pass filter:
Bs
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------
2
-
2
s + B s + o
For second-order band-stop filter:
2 2
s + o
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------
2
-
2
s + B s + o
For first-order low-pass filter:
c
G ( s ) = k ---------------
s + c

5.2 Computational Function Blocks
5.2.1 Summer
The input of a one-input summer or two-input summer can be either a scalar or a vector. The input of a three-
input summer can only be a scalar.
Images:
1-input 2-input 2-input 3-input
Input 1
Input 1 Input 1
Input 2
Input 2 Input 2 Input 3
Attribute:
Gain_i Gain ki for the ith input
For the three-input summer, the input with a dot is the first input.
If the inputs are scalar, the output of a summer with n inputs is defined as:
V o = k 1 V 1 + k 2 V 2 + ... + k n V n
If the input is a vector, the output of a two-input summer will also be a vector, which is defined as:
V1 = [a1 a2 ... an]
V2 = [b1 b2 ... bn]
Vo = V1 + V2 = [a1+b1 a2+b2 ... an+bn]
The output of a one-input summer, however, will still be a scalar which is equal to the summation of the input
vector elements, that is, Vo = a1 + a2 + ... an.
5.2.2 Multiplier and Divider

The output of a multipliers or divider is equal to the multiplication or division of two inputs.
Images:
Multiplier Divider
Numerator
Denominator
For the divider, the dotted node is for the numerator input.
The input of a multiplier can be either a vector or a scalar. If the two inputs are vectors, their dimensions must
be equal. Let the two inputs be:
V1 = [a1 a2 ... an]
V2 = [b1 b2 ... bn]
The output, which is a scalar, will be:
Vo = V1 * V2T = a1*b1 + a2*b2 + an*bn

5.2.3 Square-Root Block
A square-root function block calculates the square root of the input.
Image:
5.2.4 Exponential/Power/Logarithmic Function Blocks

The images and attributes of these function blocks are shown below.
Images:
Exponential Power LOG LOG10
Attributes (for exponential and power blocks):
Coefficient k1 Coefficient k1
The output of an exponential function block is defined as:

V o = k 1 k 2Vin
For example, if k1 = 1, k2 = 2.718281828, and Vin = 2.5, then Vo = e2.5 where e is the base of the natural
logarithm.
The output of a power function block is defined as:
k2
V o = k 1 V in
The function block LOG gives the natural logarithm (base e) of the input, and the block LOG10 gives the
common logarithm (base 10) of the input.
5.2.5 Root-Mean-Square Block

A root-mean-square function block calculates the RMS value of the input over a period specified by the base
frequency fb. The output is defined as:
1 T 2
T 0
V rms = --- v in ( t ) dt
where T = 1/fb. The output is only updated at the beginning of each period.
Image:
Attribute:
Base frequency Base frequency fb, in Hz

5.2.6 Absolute and Sign Function Blocks
An absolute value function block gives the absolute value of the input. A sign function block gives the sign of
the input, i.e., the output is 1 if the input is positive, 0 if the input is 0, and -1 if the input is negative.
Images:
Absolute Sign
5.2.7 Trigonometric Functions

The following trigonometric functions are provided: two sine (sin) blocks, two cosine (cos) blocks, arc-sine
(sin-1), arc-cosine (cos-1), tangent (tan), arc-tangent (tg-1), and arc-tangent 2 (atan2).
The output is equal to the corresponding trigonometric function of the input. For the sin, cos, and tan blocks, the
input is in deg., and for the arcsin, arccos, and arctangent blocks, the output is in deg. For the sin and cos blocks
that have the letter "r" at the upper left corner and the atan2 block, the input is in radian.
Images:
(input in deg.) (input in rad.) (input in deg.) (input in rad.)
In the arctangent and arctangent 2 blocks, the input node marked with x is the real part, and the other input node
marked with y is the imaginary part.
The output of the arctangent and arctangent 2 blocks is the inverse tangent of the ratio between the imaginary
1 y
part y and the real part x, i.e. = tg ---. The output of the arctangent block is in degree, and the range is from
x
o. On the other hand, the output of the arctangent 2 block is in radian, and the range is from - to +.
0 to 360
The arctangent 2 block behaves in the same way as the function atan2(y,x) in the C language.
5.2.8 Fast Fourier Transform Block

A Fast Fourier Transform block calculates the fundamental component of the input signal. The FFT algorithm is
based on the radix-2/decimation-in-frequency method. The number of sampling points within one fundamental
period should be 2N (where N is an integer). The maximum number of sampling points allowed is 1024.
The output gives the peak amplitude and the phase angle of the input fundamental component. The output
voltage (in complex form) is defined as:
N
n = --- 1
2 2 n
2 N j ----------
v in ( n ) v in n + --- e
N
v o = ---
N 2
n=0
Image:
Amplitude
Phase Angle

Attributes:
No. of Sampling Points No. of sampling points N
Fundamental Frequency Fundamental frequency fb, in Hz.
The dotted node of the block refers to the output of the amplitude. Note that the phase angle output has been
internally adjusted such that a sine function Vm*sin(t) will give a phase angle output of 0.
Note that the FFT block only works if the input signal contains dc, the fundamental component, and harmonics
of the fundamental components (with the frequencies at multiple integer times of the fundamental frequency). If
the input signal contains another component that is not multiple integer of the fundamental frequency, the FFT
block will not give the correct result.
Also, the FFT block only measures the fundamental component, not any other harmonics. For example, if the
input signal contains 60 Hz (fundamental) and 180 Hz, if the parameter "Fundamental Frequency" is set to 180,
the FFT block output will be incorrect.
Example:
In the circuit below, the voltage vin contains a fundamental component v1 (100 V at 60 Hz), a 5th harmonic
voltage v5 (25 V at 300 Hz), and a 7th harmonic v7 (25 V at 420 Hz). After one cycle, the FFT block output
reaches the steady state with the amplitude of 100 V and the phase angle of 0o.
v1
vin vamp v1
vin
v5 Angle
v7 vamp
Angle
5.2.9 Maximum/Minimum Function Block

A maximum/minimum function block detects the maximum or minimum of the inputs.
Image:
Attributes:
Number of Inputs Number of inputs
Block Function Type Function type of the block. It can be either Maximum or Minimum.
The number of inputs can be changed through the drop-down menu.

5.3 Other Function Blocks
5.3.1 Comparator
The output of a comparator is high when the positive input is higher than the negative input. When the positive
input is lower, the output is zero. If the two input are equal, the output is undefined and it will keep the previous
value.
Image:
Note that the comparator image is similar to that of the op. amp. For the comparator, the noninverting input is at
the upper left and the inverting input is at the lower left. For the op. amp., however, it is the opposite.
5.3.2 Limiters
Four types of limiters are provided to limit the amplitude of a signal: lower/upper limiter, lower limiter, upper
limiter, and range limiter.
Images:
Lower/upper Limiter Lower Limiter Upper Limiter Range Limiter
Attributes:
Lower Limit Lower limit Vlower of the limiter
Upper Limit Upper limit Vupper of the limiter
For a lower/upper limiter, or lower limiter, or upper limiter, the output of the limiter is clamped to the upper or
lower limit whenever the input exceeds the limiter range. If the input is within the limit, the output is equal to
the input.
A range limiter limits the output vo between the lower limit and the upper limit, that is:
V lower v o < V upper
Let the range of the upper limit and the lower limit be Vrange. When the output is equal to or greater than the
upper limit, the output is subtracted by the range Vrange until it is within the range. When the output is below the
lower limit, it is added by range Vrange until it is within the range. When the input is within the limit, the output
is equal to the input.
5.3.3 Gradient (dv/dt) Limiter

A gradient (dv/dt) limiter limits the rate of change of the input. If the rate of change is within the limit, the
output is equal to the input.
Image:

Attribute:
dv/dt Limit Limit of the rate of change (dv/dt) of the input
5.3.4 Trapezoidal and Square Blocks

Trapezoidal waveform blocks and square waveform blocks are specific types of lookup tables: the output and
the input relationship is either a trapezoidal or a square waveform.
Images:
Trapezoidal Waveform Square Waveform
For the trapezoidal waveform block:

Attributes:
Rising Angle theta Rising angle , in deg.
Peak Value Peak value Vpk of the waveform
For the square waveform block:

Attribute:
Pulse Width (deg.) Pulse width in half cycle, in deg.
The waveforms of these two blocks are shown below. Note that the input vin is in deg., and can be in the range
of -360o to 360o. Both waveforms are half-wave and quarter-wave symmetrical.
vo Trapezoidal Waveform vo Square Waveform
Vpk 1
o vin vin
180
0 0 o o
o
360 180 360
-Vpk -1

5.3.5 Sampling/Hold Block

A sampling/hold block samples the input when the control signal changes from low to high (from 0 to 1), and
holds this value until the next point is sampled.
Image:
Input
Control
The difference between this block and the zero-order hold block (ZOH) in Digital Control Module is that this
block is treated as a continuous element and sampling moments can be controlled externally; whereas the zero-
order hold block is a discrete element and the sampling moments are fixed and of equal distance.

For a discrete system, the zero-order hold block should be used.
Example:
In this example, a sinusoidal input is sampled. The control signal is a square wave voltage source with an
amplitude of 1.
vin
vo
vctrl
5.3.6 Round-Off Block

The image of a round-off block is shown below:
Image:
Attributes:
No. of Digits No. of digits N after the decimal point
Truncation Flag Truncation flag (1: truncation; 0: round-off)
Let the input of the round-off block be Vin. The input is first scaled based on the following expression:
N
V in, new = V in 10
If the truncation flag is 1, the output will be equal to Vin,new truncated, and then divided by 10N. Otherwise, the
output will be equal to Vin,new rounded off to the nearest integer, and then divided by 10N.
Examples:
If Vin = 34.5678, N = 0, truncation flag = 0, then we have the output Vout = 35. Similarly, if Vin = 34.5678, N = 0,
truncation flag = 1, then Vout = 34.
If Vin = 34.5678, N = 1, truncation flag = 1, then Vout = 34.5. If Vin = 34.5678, N = -1, truncation flag = 1, then
Vout = 30.
5.3.7 Time Delay Blocks

Two types of time delay blocks are provided: one with arbitrary delay time, and the other with only one
simulation time step.
Images:
Time Delay Unit Time Delay

Attribute:
Delay Time Delay time, in sec. (for the Time Delay block only)
A time delay block delays the input signal by a specified amount of time interval. It, for example. can be used to
model the propagation delay of a logic element.
A unit time delay block delays the input signal by just one simulation time step. If the simulation time step is
changed, the delay time will be changed accordingly.
Note that the difference between the unit time delay block and the unit delay block in Digital Control Module is
that this block is a continuous element and the delay time is one simulation time step; whereas the unit delay
block is a discrete element and the delay time is equal to the sampling period.
For a discrete system, the unit delay block should be used.
Example:
In this circuit, the first time delay block has a delay time of 1 ms, and the second block has a delay time of 4 ms.
This example illustrates that the input of the time delay block can be either an analog or a digital signal.
1 ms
vin1
vo1
vin2
vo2
4 ms
vin2
vo2
5.3.8 Multiplexer
The output of a multiplexer is equal to a selected input depending on the control signal. Two types of
multiplexers are provided: One with binary control inputs, and the other with individual control inputs.
Images:
Binary Control Inputs Individual Control Inputs
2-input 4-input 8-input 3-input 4-input
d0 d0
d0 d0 d1
d0 d1 d1 MUX MUX
MUX Y MUX Y d2
d1 d2 MUX Y d2 d3
d3
s0 d7 s1 s0 s2 s1 s0
s1 s0
s2 s1 s0
In the images, d0...d7 are the data inputs; and s0..s2 are the control inputs. The truth tables of the multiplexers
are as follows.

For multiplexers with binary control inputs:
2-Input 4-Input 8-Input
s0 Y s1 s0 Y s2 s1 s0 Y
0 d0 0 0 d0 0 0 0 d0
1 d1 0 1 d1 0 0 1 d1
1 0 d2 0 1 0 d2
1 1 d3 0 1 1 d3
1 0 0 d4
1 0 1 d5
1 1 0 d6
1 1 1 d7
For multiplexers with individual control inputs:
3-Input 4-Input
s1 s0 Y s2 s1 s0 Y
x 1 d0 x x 1 d0
1 0 d1 x 1 0 d1
otherwise d2 1 0 0 d2
otherwise d3
Note that the data input could be either an analog or digital signal.
Example:
The following circuit selects the maximum value out of two inputs. When Va is greater than Vb, the comparator
output will be 1, and Vo = Va. Otherwise Vo = Vb.
5.3.9 THD Block

The total harmonic distortion (THD) of an ac waveform that contains both the fundamental and harmonic
components is defined as:
V V rms
2 V 12
THD = ----h- = -------------------------
-
V1 V1
where V1 is the fundamental component (rms), Vh is the harmonic rms value, and Vrms is the overall rms value
of the waveform. The THD block is modelled as shown below.

Image:
THD Circuit Model of the THD Block
Vrms Vh
THD vin(t) THD
vin(t)
v1(t) V1
v1(t)
A second-order band-pass filter is used to extract the fundamental component. The center frequency and the
passing band of the band-pass filter need to be specified.
Attributes:
Fundamental Frequency Fundamental frequency of the input, in Hz
Passing Band Passing band of the band-pass filter, in Hz
Example:
In the single-phase thyristor circuit below, a THD block is used to measure the THD of the input current. The
delay angle of the thyristor bridge is chosen as 30o. For the THD block, the fundamental frequency is set at 60
Hz and the passing band of the filter is set at 20 Hz. The simulation results are shown on the right.
vs
alpha=30 deg.
is THD
is1
One of the THD block output is the input current fundamental component is1. By comparing the phase
difference between the input voltage vs and the current is1, one can calculate the input displacement power
factor. This, together with the THD value, can be used to calculate the input power factor.
5.3.10 Space Vector PWM

A space vector PWM block is used in a carrier-wave based PWM scheme. It changes the 3-phase modulation
signals such that the PWM modulator gain is similar to that of a digitally implemented space vector PWM.
Image:

5.4 Logic Components
5.4.1 Logic Gates

Basic logic gates are AND, OR, XORGATE (exclusive-OR), NOT, NAND, and NOR gates.
Images:
AND OR NOT XOR
3-input AND 3-input OR NAND NOR
5.4.2 Set-Reset Flip-Flop

There are two types of set-reset flip-flops. One is edge-triggered and the other is level-triggered.
Image:
Attribute:
Trigger Flag Trigger flag (0: edge-triggered; 1: level-triggered)
An edge-triggered flip-flop only changes the states at the rising edge of the set/reset input. The truth table of an
edge-triggered flip-flop is:
S R Q Q
0 0 no change
0 0 1
0 1 0
not used
A level-triggered flip-flop, on the other hand, changes the states based on the input level. The truth table of a
level-triggered set-reset flip-flop is:
S R Q Q
0 0 no change
0 1 0 1
1 0 1 0
1 1 not used

5.4.3 J-K Flip-Flops
Two types of J-K flip-flops are provided: One without the set/reset inputs, and the other with the set input (S)
and reset input (R). For the element without the set and reset inputs, it is assumed that both set/reset inputs are
high (1).
Images:
A J-K flip-flop is positive edge triggered, and the truth table is:
S R J K Clock Q Q
0 1 x x x 1 0
1 0 x x x 0 1
0 0 x x x 0 0
1 1 0 0 no change
1 1 0 1 0 1
1 1 1 0 1 0
1 1 1 1 Toggle
x: Do not care
5.4.4 D Flip-Flops
Two types of D flip-flops are provided: One without the set/reset inputs, and the other with the set input (S) and
reset input (R). For the element without the set and reset inputs, it is assumed that both set/reset inputs are high
(1).
Images:
A D flip-flop is positive edge triggered, and the truth table is:

S R D Clock Q Q
0 1 x x 1 0
1 0 x x 0 1
0 0 x x 0 0
1 1 0 0 1
1 1 1 1 0

5.4.5 Monostable Multivibrator
In a monostable multivibrator, the positive (or negative) edge of the input signal triggers the monostable. A
pulse, with the specified pulse width, will be generated at the output.
The output pulse width can be either fixed or adjusted through another input variable. The latter type of
monostables is referred to as controlled monostables. Its on-time pulse width, in second, is determined by the
control input.
Images:
Monostable Controlled Monostable
Attribute:
Pulse Width On-time pulse width, in sec.
The input node at the bottom of the controlled monostable block is for the pulse width input.
5.4.6 Pulse Width Counter

A pulse width counter measures the width of a pulse. The rising edge of the input activates the counter. At the
falling edge of the input, the output gives the width of the pulse (in sec.). During the interval of two falling pulse
edges, the pulse width counter output remains unchanged.
Image:
5.4.7 Up/Down Counter

An up/down counter increments or decrements by 1 at each rising edge of the clock.
Image:
Preset Enable
Preset Value
Clock Output
Up/Down
Reset
Attribute:
No. of Bits Number of bits N
When the Up/Down input is 0, the counter decrements, and when the Up/Down input is 1, the counter
increments.
The Reset input resets the counter to 0 when it is high (1). The Preset Enable input sets the counter to the preset
value when it is high.

The truth table of the counter is:
Up/Down Preset Enable Reset Clock Action
x 0 0 x No count
1 0 0 Count up
0 0 0 Count down
x 1 0 x Preset
x x 1 x Reset
x: Do not care
5.4.8 A/D and D/A Converters

A/D and D/A converters perform analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion. Both 8-bit and 10-bit
converters are provided.
Images:
ADC (8-bit) ADC (10-bit) DAC (8-bit) DAC (10-bit)

Vref Vref
Vin Vo Vin Vo
Clock
Let N be the number of bits. The output of the A/D converter is calculated as:
N
2
V o = ---------- V in
V ref
The output will be clamped to 2N-1.

For example, if Vref = 5 V, Vin = 3.2 V, N = 8 bits, then
Vo = 256/5*3.2 = 163.84 = 10100011 (binary)
The output of the D/A converter is calculated as:
V ref
V o = ---------
N
- V in
2
For example, if Vref = 5 V, Vin = 10100011 (binary) = 163, N = 8 bits, then
Vo = 163/256*5 = 3.1836

5.5 Digital Control Module
The Digital Control Module is an add-on module to the basic PSIM program. It provides discrete elements, such
as zero-order hold, z-domain transfer function blocks, digital filters, etc., for digital control system simulation.
In contrary to a s-domain circuit which is continuous, a z-domain circuit is discrete, and the calculation is only
performed at the discrete sampling points. There is no calculation between two sampling points.
5.5.1 Zero-Order Hold

A zero-order hold samples the input at the point of sampling. The output remains unchanged between two
sampling points.
Image:
Attribute:
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the zero-order hold, in Hz
Like all other discrete elements, the zero-order hold has a free-running timer which determines the moment of
sampling. The sampling moment is synchronized with the origin of the simulation time. For example, if the
zero-order hold has a sampling frequency of 1000 Hz, the input will be sampled at 0, 1 msec., 2 msec., 3 msec.,
and so on.
Example:
In the following circuit, the zero-order hold sampling frequency is 1000 Hz. The input and output waveforms
are shown on the left.
Note that in above circuit, a continuous-domain integrator is also connected to the input sine source. This makes
it a mixed continuous-discrete circuit, and a simulation time step selected for the continuous circuit will be
used. With this time step, the familiar staircase-like waveform can be observed at the zero-order hold output.
Without the integrator, the circuit becomes a discrete circuit. Since only the calculation at the discrete sampling
points is needed, the simulation time step will be equal to the sampling period, and only the results at the
sampling points are available. The waveforms, as shown below, appear continuous. In fact the waveforms are
discrete, and the connection between two sampling points makes it look like continuous.

5.5.2 z-Domain Transfer Function Block
A z-domain transfer function block is expressed in polynomial form as:
N N1
b0 z + b1 z + ... + b N 1 z + b N
H ( z ) = ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
N N1
-
a0 z + a1 z + ... + a N 1 z + a N
If a0 = 1, the expression Y(z) = H(z) * U(z) can be expressed in difference equation as:
y ( n ) = b 0 u ( n ) + b 1 u ( n 1 ) + ... + b N u ( n N )
[ a 1 y ( n 1 ) + a 2 y ( n 2 ) + ... + a N y ( n N ) ]
Image:
Attributes:
Order N Order N of the transfer function
Coeff. b0...bN Coefficients of the numerator (from b0 to bN)
Coeff. a0...aN Coefficients of the denominator (from a0 to aN)
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency, in Hz
Example:
The following is a second-order transfer function:
3
400. e
H ( z ) = ------------------------------------------------------
2
-
3
z + 1200 z + 400. e
Assuming a sampling frequency of 3 kHz, the specification will be:
Order N 2
Coeff. b0...bN 0. 0. 400.e3
Coeff. a0...aN 1. 1200. 400.e3
Sampling Frequency 3000.

5.5.2.1 Integrator
There are three types of integrators: regular integrator, external resettable integrator, and internal resettable
integrator.
Images:
Regular Integrator External Resettable Integrator Internal Resettable Integrator
Attribute:
Algorithm Flag Flag for integration algorithm
0: trapezoidal rule
1: backward Euler
2: forward Euler
Initial Output Value Initial output value
Reset Flag Reset flag (0: edge reset; 1: level reset) (for external resettable integrator only)
Lower Output Limit Lower limit of the output (for internal resettable integrator only)
Upper Output Limit Upper limit of the output (for internal resettable integrator only)
The output of an external resettable integrator can be reset by an external control signal (at the bottom of the
block). With the edge reset (reset flag = 0), the integrator output is reset to zero at the rising edge of the control
signal. With the level reset (reset flag = 1), the integrator output is reset to zero as long as the control signal is
high (1).
The output of an internal resettable integrator is reset to 0 whenever the output reaches either the lower limit or
the upper limit. The integrator works in the same way as the external resettable integrator with the edge reset,
except that users do not need to set up the external reset circuit in this case.
If we define u(t) as the input, y(t) as the output, Ts as the sampling period, and H(z) as the discrete transfer
function, the input-output relationship of an integrator can be expressed under different integration algorithms
as follows.
With trapezoidal rule:
T z+1
H ( z ) = ----s- ------------
2 z1
T
y ( n ) = y ( n 1 ) + ----s- ( u ( n ) + u ( n 1 ) )
2
With backward Euler:
z
H ( z ) = T s ------------
z1
y ( n ) = y ( n 1 ) + Ts u ( n )
With forward Euler:

1
H ( z ) = T s ------------
z1
y ( n ) = y ( n 1 ) + Ts u ( n 1 )

5.5.2.2 Differentiator
The transfer function of a discrete differentiator is:
1 z1
H ( z ) = ----- ------------
Ts z
where Ts is the sampling period. The input-output relationship can be expressed in difference equation as:
1
y ( n ) = ----- ( u ( n ) u ( n 1 ) )
Ts
Image:
Attribute:
5.5.2.3 Digital PI Controller

A digital PI controller is defined below.
Image:
Attribute:
Time Constant Time constant T of the PI controller
Lower Output Limit Lower limit V_lower of the output
Upper Output Limit Upper limit V_upper of the output
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency fs, in Hz
The transfer function of an analog PI controller in s-domain is defined as:

1 + sT
G ( s ) = k ---------------
sT
The digital PI controller is obtained by discretizing the analog PI controller using the backward Euler method.
The implementation of the controller is shown below:

5.5.2.4 Digital Filters
Four digital filter blocks are provided: 1st-order low-pass filter, 2nd-order low-pass filter, general digital filter,
and general finite impulse response (FIR) filter. For both general filters, the filter coefficients can either be
entered directly through the element property window, or be specified through a text file.
Images:
1st-order Low-Pass 2nd-order Low-Pass General Digital Filter FIR Filter
Attributes:
For 1st-order low-pass filter and 2nd-order low-pass filter:
Gain Gain k of the filter

Cut-off Frequency Cut-off frequency fc ( f c = -----c- ), in Hz
2
Damping Ratio Damping ratio of the filter (for 2nd-order low-pass filter only)
For General Digital Filter or FIR Filter that reads the coefficients directly:
Order N Order N of the transfer function
Coeff. b0...bN Coefficients of the numerator (from b0 to bN)
Coeff. a0...aN Coefficients of the denominator (from a0 to aN)
For General Digital Filter or FIR Filter that reads the coefficients from a text file:
File for Coefficients Name of the file storing the filter coefficients
The transfer functions of the low-pass filters are listed below.

For first-order low-pass analog filter in s-domain:
c
G ( s ) = k ---------------
s + c
For second-order low-pass analog filter in s-domain:
2
c
G ( s ) = k ----------------------------------------
2
-
2
s + 2 c s + c
The 1st-order and 2nd-order digital filters are obtained by discretizing the analog filter using the Backward
Euler method.
The transfer function of a general digital filter is expressed in polynomial form as:
1 ( N 1 ) N
b 0 + b 1 z + ... + b N 1 z + bN z
H ( z ) = -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 ( N 1 ) N
-
a 0 + a 1 z + ... + a N 1 z + aN z

If a0 = 1, the output y and input u can be expressed in difference equation form as:
y ( n ) = b 0 u ( n ) + b 1 u ( n 1 ) + ... + b N u ( n N )
[ a 1 y ( n 1 ) + a 2 y ( n 2 ) + ... + a N y ( n N ) ]
If the denominator coefficients a0..aN are not zero, this type of filter is called infinite impulse response (IIR)
filter.
The transfer function of a FIR filter is expressed in polynomial form as:
1 ( N 1 ) N
H ( z ) = b 0 + b 1 z + ... + b N 1 z + bN z
If a0 = 1, the output y and input u can be expressed in difference equation form as:
y ( n ) = b 0 u ( n ) + b 1 u ( n 1 ) + ... + b N u ( n N )
The coefficient file for block Digital Filter (file) and FIR Filter (file) has the following format:
For FIR Filter (file):
N
b0
b1
... ... ...
bN
For Digital Filter (file), the format can be either one of the following:
N or N
b0 b0, a0
b1 b1, a1
... ... ... ... ... ...
bN bN, aN
a0
a1
... ... ...
aN
Example:
To design a 2nd-order low-pass Butterworth digital filter with the cut-off frequency fc = 1 kHz, assuming the
sampling frequency fs = 10 kHz, using MATLAB, we have:
Nyquist frequency fn = fs / 2 = 5 kHz
Normalized cut-off frequency fc* = fc/fn = 1/5 = 0.2
[B,A] = butter (2, fc*)
which will give:
B = [0.0201 0.0402 0.0201 ] = [b0 b1 b2]
A = [ 1 -1.561 0.6414 ] = [a0 a1 a2]
The transfer function is:

1 2
0.0201 + 0.0402 z + 0.0201 z
H ( z ) = ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 2
-
1 1.561 z + 0.6414 z
The input-output difference equation is:
y ( n ) = 0.0201 u ( n ) + 0.0402 u ( n 1 ) + 1.561 y ( n 1 ) 0.6414 y ( n 2 )
The parameter specification of the filter in PSIM will be:
Order N 2
Coeff. b0...bN 0.0201 0.0402 0.0201
Coeff. a0...aN 1. -1.561 0.6414
Sampling Frequency 10000.
If the coefficients are stored in a file, the file content will be:
2
0.0201
0.0402
0.0201
1.
-1.561
0.6414
Or the file can also have the content as follows:
2
0.0201, 1
0.0402, -1.561
0.0201, 0.6414
5.5.3 Unit Delay

A unit delay block provides one sampling period delay to the input.
Image:
Attribute:
Initial Output Value Initial value of the output of the block
The difference between the unit delay block and the time delay block is that the unit delay block is a discrete
element and it delays the sampled points by one sampling period, whereas the time delay block is a continuous
element and it delays the whole waveform by the delay time specified.

5.5.4 Quantization Blocks
Quantization blocks simulate the quantization process of an A/D converter. Two quantization blocks are
provided: One with 1 LSB (least significant bit) quantization error, and the other with input offset with 0.5 LSB
quantization error.
Images:
Quantization Block Quantization Block (with offset)
Attributes:
No. of Bits Number of bits N
Vin_min Lower limit of the input value Vin,min
Vin_max Upper limit of the input value Vin,max
Vo_min Lower limit of the output value Vo,min
Vo_max Output value Vo,max that corresponds to the input value Vin,max
To understand how the quantization blocks work, we will look at a special case where N = 3, Vin,min = 0, and
Vin,max = 1. The input will be divided into 23 (or 8) stages. Depending on the input level, the output will be one
of the 3-bit discrete numbers 000, 001, 010, 011, 100, 101, 110, and 111. The output will have 23 (or 8) levels,
and 23-1 (or 7) steps. If the binary number 000 corresponds to the decimal number 0, and the binary number 111
corresponds to the decimal number 0.875, and Vo,min = 0, and Vo,max = 1, we can plot the waveforms of the
input, output, and the quantization error Vin-Vo of the two quantization blocks as below.
The waveforms on the left are from the quantization block without the offset, and the waveforms on the right
are from the quantization block with the offset.

Quantization block Quantization block (with offset)
Binary Binary
numbers numbers
(111) (111)
(110) (110)
(101) (101)
(100) (100)
(011) (011)
(010) (010)
(001) (001)
(000) (000)
As shown from the waveforms on the left, the quantization error of the quantization block is from 0 to 1 LSB
(least significant bit), or 1/23 (or 0.125).
For the quantization block with offset, a value of 0.5*LSB is added to the input before performing the
quantization. This reduces the quantization error to -0.5 LSB to +0.5 LSB (except when the input is close to the
maximum value), as shown from the waveforms on the right.
The figure below shows the input-output relationship of a general quantization block with offset.
Vo,max N
2 Binary numbers
N
Actual output limit 2 -1
Vo
Vo
Vo,min
0
Vin,min Vin,max
Vin Vin
The number of bits determines the quantization resolution. The input range, Vin,max - Vin,min, is divided into 2N
stages, with the width of each stage as:

V in, max V in, min
V in = --------------------------------------
N
-
2
except for the 1st stage where the width is 0.5*Vin, and the last stage where the width is 1.5Vin. Note that for
the quantization block without the offset, the width of the 1st and last stage is Vin.
If the input falls in the kth stage, the output will be calculated as:
V o = V o, min + ( k 1 ) V o
where k is from 1 to 2N, and the output step is calculated as:

V o, max V o, min
V o = ---------------------------------
N
-
2
Note that the value Vo,max corresponds to the output value when the input is at Vin,max. But because of the
quantization, the output can be represented in only N levels, from 0 to 2N-1. As a result, the actual limit of the
output is not Vo,max, but Vo,max - Vo, as shown in the figure above.
Example:
For a quantization block with the offset, let N = 3, Vin,min = 0, Vin,max = 1, Vo,min = 0, and Vo,min = 1. We have
Vin = Vo = 1/8. If Vin = 0.25, it is in the 3rd stage (k = 3), and it corresponds to Vo = 0 + (3 - 1) * 1/8 = 0.25. If
Vin = 0.6, it is in the 6th stage (k = 6), and it corresponds to Vo = 0 + (6 - 1) * 1/8 = 0.625.
5.5.5 Circular Buffers

A circular buffer is a memory location that can store an array of data. Two types of circular buffers are provided
in PSIM: One with a single output, and the other with a vector output.
Images:
Circular Buffer (single output) Circular Buffer (vector output)
Attributes:
Buffer Length The length of the buffer
A circular buffer stores data in a buffer. When the pointer reaches the end of the buffer, it will start again from
the beginning.
The circular buffer with single output is a type of first-in-first-out memory storage device, and the output is
equal to the value being pushed out.
The output of the circular buffer with vector output is a vector array with the length equal to the buffer length.
To access each memory location, use the memory read block.
Example:
If a circular buffer has a buffer length of 4 and a sampling frequency of 10 Hz, we have the buffer storage at
different time as follows:

Time Input Value at Memory Location Output (for single-
1 2 3 4 output buffer)
0 0.11 0.11 0 0 0 0
0.1 0.22 0.11 0.22 0 0 0
0.2 0.33 0.11 0.22 0.33 0 0
0.3 0.44 0.11 0.22 0.33 0.44 0
0.4 0.55 0.55 0.22 0.33 0.44 0.11
0.5 0.66 0.55 0.66 0.33 0.44 0.22
... ... ...
5.5.6 Convolution Block

A convolution block performs the convolution of two input vectors. The output is also a vector.
Image:
Let the two input vectors be:

A = [ am am-1 am-2 ... a1]
B = [ bn bn-1 bn-2 ... b1]
We have the convolution of A and B as:
C = A B = c m + n 1 c m + n 2 ... c 1
where
ci = [ ak+1 * bj-k], k=0, ..., m+n-1; j=0, ..., m+n-1; i=1, ..., m+n-1
Example:
If A = [1 2 3] and B = [4 5], we have m = 3; n = 2; and the convolution of A and B is: C = [4 13 22 15].
5.5.7 Memory Read Block

A memory read block is used to read the value of a memory location of a vector.
Image:
Attribute:
Memory Index Offset Offset from the starting memory location
A memory read block allows one to access the memory location of elements such as convolution block, vector
array, and circular buffer. The index offset defines the offset from the starting memory location.
Example:
Let a vector be A = [2 4 6 8]. If index offset is 0, the memory read block output will be 2. If the index offset is 2,
the output will be 6.

5.5.8 Data Array
This is a one-dimensional array. The output is a vector. The data are either entered directly (the element is called
Array in the PSIM library) or specified in a file (the element is called Array (file) in the PSIM library).
Image:
Attributes:
Array Length The length of the data array N (for the element Array only)
Values Values of the array (for the element Array only)
File for Coefficients Name of the file storing the array (for the element Array (file) only)
If the array is read from a file, the file will have the following format:
N
a1
... ... ...
aN
where N is the length of the array, and a1..aN are the array values.
Example:
To define an array A = [2 4 6 8], we will have: Array Length = 4; Values = 2 4 6 8. If the array is to be read from
a file, the file will be:
4
2.
4.
6.
8.
5.5.9 Stack
A stack is a first-in-last-out register.
Image:
Vin
push Vo
pop
Attribute:
Stack Depth The stack depth
The rising edge triggers the push or pop action. When a pop action is performed and the stack is empty, the
output remains unchanged. When a push action is performed and the stack is already full, the data at the bottom
of the stack will be pushed out and will be lost.

5.5.10 Multi-Rate Sampling System
A discrete system can have more than one sampling rate. The following system is used to illustrate this.
The system below has 3 sections. The first section has a sampling rate of 10 Hz. The output, Vo, fed back to the
system and is sampled at 4 Hz in the second section. In the third section, the output is displayed at a sampling
rate of 2 Hz.
It should be noted that a zero-order hold must be used between two elements with different sampling rates.
Vo
5.6 SimCoupler Module

The SimCoupler Module is an add-on module to the PSIM software. It provides interface between PSIM and
Matlab/Simulink for co-simulation. With the SimCoupler Module, part of a system can be implemented and
simulated in PSIM, and the rest of the system in Simulink. One can therefore make full use of PSIMs capability
in power simulation and Matlab/Simulinks capability in control simulation in a complementary way.
The SimCoupler interface consists of two parts: the link nodes in PSIM, and the SimCoupler model block in
Simulink. The images are shown below.
Images:
In PSIM In SimuLink
SimCoupler Model Block
In Link Node Out Link Node
In PSIM, the In Link nodes receive values from Simulink, and the Out Link nodes send the values to Simulink.
They are all control elements and can be used in the control circuit only. In Simulink, the SimCoupler model
block is connected to the rest of the system through input/output ports.
5.6.1 Set-up in PSIM and Simulink

The use of the SimCoupler Module is easy and straightforward. As an example, the following shows a
permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drive system with the power stage implemented in PSIM, and
the control in Simulink.

Power
in PSIM
File: pmsm_psim.sch
Control
in SimuLink
File: pmsm_simulink.mdl
The following are the steps to set up SimCoupler for PSIM-Matlab/Simulink co-simulation for the example
above.
Adding the SimCoupler Block to the Simulink Library:
Run the program "SetSimPath.exe" to add the SimCoupler block to the Simulink
library and set up the SimCoupler Module for co-simulation of PSIM and Matlab/Simulink. After
the execution, the SimCoupler block will appear as "S-function SimCoupler" in the Simulink
Library Browser.
Note that this step is necessary, otherwise Simulink will not be able to find PSIM.
With this, it is also not necessary to manually add the PSIM folder to the Matlab path.
Also, this program needs to be run only once. It needs to be run again only if the
PSIM folder or Matlab folder has changed.
In PSIM:
- After the rest of the power circuit is created, connect three Out Link nodes to the low-pass filters of
Phase A, B, and C currents, and rename them as Ia, Ib, and Ic; and connect one Out Link
node to the speed sensor output and rename it as Wrpm.
- Connect three In Link nodes to the positive inputs of the comparators, and rename them as Va,
Vb, and Vc.
- Go to the Simulate menu, and select Arrange SLINK Nodes. A dialog window will appear. Arrange
the order of the In Link nodes (SLINK In) and Out Link nodes (SLINK Out) to be the same as how
the input/output ports would appear in the SimCoupler model block in Simulink (the order of the
ports is from the top to the bottom). In this example, the order will be Va, Vb, and Vc for the
In Link nodes, and Ia, Ib, Ic, and Wrpm for the Out Link nodes.
- Save the schematic file. In this example, we assume that the file is saved to
C:\PSIM\pmsm_psim.sch.
In Simulink:
- Start Matlab.
- Launch Simulink. Open an existing file or create a new file. After the rest of the system is created, go
to the menu "S-function SimCoupler" in the Simulink Library Browser, select the SimCoupler
block, and place it on the schematic.
- In the PMSM example file, double click on the SimCoupler block, and click on the Browser button to

locate and select the PSIM schematic file C:\PSIM\pmsm_psim.sch. Then click on Apply. The
number of input and output ports of the SimCoupler model block will automatically match those
defined in the PSIM netlist. In this case, there will be 3 input ports and 4 output ports.
- Go to the Simulation menu and select Simulation Parameters. Under Solver Options, set the Type
to Fixed-step. Set Fixed step size to be the same as or close to PSIMs time step. In this case, the
time step is set to 0.1ms. More discussion on the selection of the solver option and the time step is
given in the next section.
- The setup is now complete. Go to Simulink and start the simulation.
The SimCoupler Module supports Matlab/Simulink Release 13 and higher.
Please also note that when the SimCoupler model block is used in a feedback system in Simulink, the
SimCoupler model block may be part of an algebraic loop (please refer to Matlab Help for more information on
algebraic loops). Some versions of Matlab/Simulink can not solve a system containing algebraic loops, and
other can solve the system but with degraded performance. To break an algebraic loop, place a memory block at
each output of the SimCoupler model block. The memory block introduces one integration time step delay.
5.6.2 Solver Type and Time Step Selection in Simulink

There are certain restrictions on the selection of the solver type and the time step in Simulink when performing
the co-simulation. To illustrate this, we use the following one-quadrant chopper circuit with average current
mode control as an example.
The circuit on the left is all implemented and simulated in PSIM. The circuit on the right has the power stage
implemented in PSIM, and the control implemented in Simulink. In both circuits, the PSIM time step is 2 us.
Complete circuit in PSIM Power circuit in PSIM
Time step: 2us
There are different ways of setting up Simulink to perform co-simulation. The recommend approach is to set the
Solve Type to Fixed-step and define the Fixed step size to be the same or close to PSIMs time step. The figure
below shows this option.
Control in Simulink Solver Type: Fixed-step

Time step: 20 us
It is recommended that Simulink use the same time step as PSIM, although we have found that, even if the
Simulink time step is slightly larger than PSIM time step, satisfactory results are obtained. In this case, for

example, the time step is set to 20 us, 10 times larger than the PSIM time step.
If the Simulink Solver type is instead set to Variable-step, the simulation results will not be correct. The figure
below shows this option.
Control in Simulink Solver Type: Variable-step
When the Simulink Solver type is set to Variable-step, in order to obtain correct results, a zero-order-hold must
be placed at the input of the SimCoupler model block. Moreover, the zero-order-hold sample time must be the
same or close to PSIM time step. The figure below shows the configuration.
Control in Simulink Solver Type: Variable-step
ZOH Sample Time: 2 us
Therefore, Simulink must be set up to have the Solver Type as Fixed-step with the time step the same or close
to the PSIM time step, or if the Solver Type is Variable-step, a zero-order-hold must be used with the sample
time the same or close to PSIM time step
5.6.3 Passing Parameters from Simulink to PSIM

One can set parameter values in Simulink, and pass them to PSIM. For example, to set the inductance of the
inductor L1 in Simulink, change the "Inductance" to varL1 in PSIM, as shown below.
In Simulink, double click on the SimCoupler block to open the property dialog, and click on Add Variable.
Click on the newly added row in the list and type the variable name and value, as shown below.

The variable varL1 will now be accessible from PSIM.
5.7 CosiMate Links

CosiMate links provide the link between PSIM and CosiMate, a co-simulation platform that supports various
software. Through the links, one can perform co-simulation between PSIM and the software that CosiMate
supports. For more information on CosiMate, please visit www.chiastek.com.
The links consist of two parts: Input Port and Output Port. An input port represents a control signal input from
CosiMate to PSIM, and an output port represents a control signal output from PSIM to CosiMate. During co-
simulation, data are exchanged between PSIM and other software through these ports.
Note that the links will be functional only if one has CosiMate installed. For more details on how to set up the
links, please refer to relevant CosiMate documents.
5.8 Design Suite Blocks

This section contains blocks that consist of basic power and control elements for specific motor drive system
applications.
The following control blocks are provided:
- Torque Control (PMSM)
- Dynamic Torque Limit Control (PMSM)
- Voltage Control (PMSM)
- DC-DC Charging Control
- DC-DC Discharging Control
- DC-DC Regeneration Control
These blocks are part of the HEV Design Suite.
5.8.1 Torque Control (PMSM)

The Torque Control (PMSM) block is for linear PMSM machines only. It is defined as follow.

Image:
Torque Control
Id Is
Iq
Te Tes
Attributes:
Ld (d-axis inductance) d-axis inductance of the machine, in H
Lq (q-axis inductance) q-axis inductance of the machine, in H
Vpk / krpm Peak line-to-line back emf constant of the machine, in V/krpm (mechanical
speed)
Integrator Gain Gain of the torque loop integrator controller
Maximum Motor Torque Maximum motor torque, in Nm
Base Current Value Base current value of the system, in A
Base Torque Value Base torque value, in Nm
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the torque loop integrator controller, in Hz
The torque control block has the following inputs and outputs:
Id: d-axis current feedback
Iq: q-axis current feedback
Te: Torque reference
Is: Current amplitude reference
Tes: Estimated torque developed by the motor
This block estimates the motor developed torque from the current feedback and motor parameters. A control
loop based on a discrete integrator is used to regulate the motor torque and generate the motor current reference.
The block requires the parameters of the PMSM controlled and the inverter current rating.
5.8.2 Dynamic Torque Limit Control (PMSM)

The Dynamic Torque Limit Control (PMSM) block is for linear PMSM machines only.
Image:
Dynamic Torque
Id
Te
Iq
Vdc
Wm nmb
Tcmd FW

Attributes:
speed)
Maximum Motor Torque Maximum motor torque, in N*m
Maximum Motor Speed (rpm) Maximum motor speed, in rpm
Maximum Motor Power Maximum motor power, in W
Base Voltage Value Base voltage value of the system, in V
Base Mechanical Speed Base mechanical speed, in rad/sec
Base Torque Value Maximum inverter output voltage amplitude (phase peak), in V
The torque control block has the following inputs and outputs:
Wm: Motor mechanical speed, in rad/sec.
Tcmd: Torque command
Te: Torque reference
nmb: Calculated speed limit of the maximum torque region, in rpm
FW: Flag of field weakening (1: in field weakening; 0: not in field weakening)
This block calculates the speed limit of the maximum torque region. When the motor speed is less than this
speed limit, the motor operates in the maximum torque region. Otherwise, it operates in the maximum power
region with field weakening control.
The block requires the parameters of the PMSM controlled and the inverter voltage rating.
5.8.3 Dynamic Torque Limit Control (Nonlinear PMSM)

The Dynamic Torque Limit Control (Nonlinear PMSM) block is for nonlinear PMSM machines only.
Image:
Dynamic Torque (NL)
Id Te
Iq
Ld
Lq
Lambda
Vdc
Wm Wm_th
Tcmd FW

Attributes:
Filter Cut-Off Frequency Cut-off frequency fc of the internal low-pass filter, in Hz
Maximum Motor Speed Maximum motor speed, in rpm
Maximum Motor Power Maximum motor power, in W
Base Voltage Value Base voltage value of the system, in V
Base Mechanical Speed Base mechanical speed, in rad/sec
Base Torque Value Maximum inverter output voltage amplitude (phase peak), in V
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the internal low-pass filter, in Hz
The dynamic torque limit control block is for the control of nonlinear PMSM machines only. It has the
following inputs and outputs, all in per unit value except Ld, Lq, and Lambda. When base values Vb, Ib, and
Wmb are all 1, all input and output quantities are in real values.
Input Signals:
Ld: d-axis inductance Ld, in H
Lq: q-axis inductance Lq, in H
Lambda: Peak stator phase flux linkage, in Weber
Wm: Motor mechanical speed
Tcmd: Torque reference input
Output Signals:
Te: Torque reference output
Wm_th: Calculated threshold speed of the constant torque region
FW: Flag of field weakening (1: in field weakening; 0: not in field weakening)
This block calculates the threshold speed of the constant torque region. When the motor speed is less than this
speed, the motor operates in the constant torque region. Otherwise, it operates in the constant power region with
field weakening control.
A second-order low-pass digital filter, with a cut-off frequency of fc and a damping ratio of 0.7, is used to
smooth out the change of the calculated threshold speed.
5.8.4 Voltage Control (PMSM)

The Voltage Control block is for linear PMSM machines only.
Image:
Voltage Control
Vdc*
Vdc
Is
Idc
Wm

Attributes:
speed)
Number of Cells in Parallel Number of cells Np in parallel in the battery pack
PI Gain Gain of the voltage loop PI controller
PI Time Constant Time constant of the voltage loop PI controller, in sec.
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the voltage PI controller, in Hz
The voltage control block has the following inputs and outputs:
Vdc*: DC bus voltage reference
Idc: DC bus current feedback
Wm: Motor mechanical speed in rad/sec.
Is: Current amplitude reference
This block uses a digital PI controller to regulate the dc bus voltage. Together with the dc bus current and the
machine speed, it generates the machine current reference.
The block requires the parameters of the PMSM machine controlled.
5.8.5 DC-DC Charging Control

The DC-DC Charging Control block is defined as below.
Image:
Charging Control
Vbatt
Vm
Ibatt
Attributes:
Converter Rated Power Rated power of the dc-dc converter, in W
Battery-side Rated Voltage Converter rated voltage on the battery side, in V
Number of Cells in Series Number of cells Ns in series in the battery pack
Number of Cells in Parallel Number of cells Np in parallel in the battery pack
Voltage Derating Factor Voltage derating factor Ks, from 0 (100% derating) to 1 (no derating)
Full Battery Voltage Full (or maximum) voltage of the battery cell, in V
Battery Resistance Internal resistance of the battery cell, in Ohm
Current PI Gain Gain of the current loop PI controller

Current PI Time Constant Time constant of the current loop PI controller, in sec.
Voltage PI Gain Gain of the voltage loop PI controller
Voltage PI Time Constant Time constant of the voltage loop PI controller, in sec.
Control Block Output Limit The upper limit of the control block output Vm. The lower limit is 0.
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the voltage and current PI controller, in Hz
The dc-dc charging control block has the following inputs and outputs:
Vbatt: Battery-side voltage
Ibatt: Current flowing into the battery
Vm: Modulation signal output
This block implements constant-voltage-constant-current charging control to a battery. When the battery
terminal voltage is less than the battery float voltage (the float voltage is defined as the internal battery full
voltage plus the voltage drop across the battery resistance), it is constant current charging, in which case the
voltage is disabled and the current loop changes the battery at a constant current rate. The charging current
amplitude is set to the converter rated current on the battery side.
On the other hand, when the battery terminal voltage reaches the float voltage, it is constant voltage charging.
The voltage loop generates the reference for the current loop.
Digital PI controllers are used in the voltage and current loops.
5.8.6 DC-DC Discharging Control

The DC-DC Discharging Control block is defined as below.
Image:
Discharging Control
Vdc
Vm
Ibatt
Attributes:
Current/Voltage Mode Operation mode of the discharge control (0: current mode; 1: voltage mode)
Converter Rated Power Rated power of the dc-dc converter, in W
Battery-side Rated Voltage Converter rated voltage on the battery side, in V
DC Bus Voltage Reference DC bus voltage reference, in V
Current PI Gain Gain of the current loop PI controller
Current PI Time Constant Time constant of the current loop PI controller, in sec.
Voltage PI Gain Gain of the voltage loop PI controller
Voltage PI Time Constant Time constant of the voltage loop PI controller, in sec.
Control Block Output Limit The upper limit of the control block output Vm. The lower limit is 0.
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the voltage and current PI controller, in Hz
The dc-dc discharging control block has the following inputs and outputs:

Ibatt: Current flowing into the battery
Vm: Modulation signal output
This block implements constant-voltage or constant-current discharging control to a battery. When the
operation mode is set to Voltage Mode (1), the converter regulates the dc bus voltage, and the voltage loop
generates the reference for the current loop. When the operation mode is set to Current Mode (0), the converter
regulates the current flowing into the dc bus to the maximum current that the converter can deliver.
Digital PI controllers are used in the voltage and current loops.
5.8.7 DC-DC Regeneration Control

The DC-DC Regeneration Control block is defined as below.
Image:
Regen Control
Vdc Rgn
Tes
Wm
Attributes:
Regen Power Threshold Threshold of the motor power level. Beyond the threshold, regeneration is
enabled.
Regen Enable Time Time from which regeneration is enabled. Before this time, regeneration is
disabled.
Sampling Frequency Sampling frequency of the low-pass filter for speed feedback, in Hz
The dc-dc regeneration control block has the following inputs and outputs:
Tes: Estimated developed torque of the traction motor
Wm: Mechanical speed of the traction motor in rad/sec.
Rgn: Regeneration flag (0: no regeneration; 1: regeneration)
This block generates a regeneration flag based on the dc bus voltage and the traction motor power. When the
motor power is negative (in generation mode) and the power amplitude exceeds the threshold, the regeneration
flag is set to 1 to enable regeneration.
To avoid false triggering due to start-up transient, a regeneration enable time is defined. Regeneration is
possible only after this time has passed.

6
Other Components
This chapter provides descriptions for the compoments in PSIM element librarys Other section.
6.1 Switch Controllers

A switch controller has the same function as a switch gate/base drive circuit in an actual circuit. It receives the
input from the control circuit, and controls switches in the power circuit. One switch controller can control
multiple switches simultaneously.
6.1.1 On-Off Switch Controller

On-off switch controllers are used as the interface between control gating signals and power switches. The
input, which is a logic signal (either 0 or 1) from the control circuit, is passed to the power circuit as the gating
signal.
Image:
Example:
The circuit below implements the step change of a load. In the circuit, the on-off switch controller is used to
control the bi-directional switch. The step voltage source, which is connected to the controller input, changes
from 0 to 1 at the time of 12 ms. The closure of the switch results in the short-circuit of the resistor across the
switch and the increase of the current.
On-off
Controller
6.1.2 Alpha Controller

An alpha controller is used for delay angle control of thyristor switches or bridges. There are three input for the
controller: the alpha value, the synchronization signal, and the gating enable/disable signal. The transition of the
synchronization signal from low to high (from 0 to 1) provides the synchronization and this corresponds to the
moment when the delay angle alpha equals zero. A gating with a delay of alpha degrees is generated and sent to
the thyristors. The alpha value is updated instantaneously.
Chapter 6: Other Components 193

Image:
Enable/Disable
Synchronization Signal alpha
Attributes:
Frequency Operating frequency of the controlled switch/switch module, in Hz
Pulse Width On-time pulse width of the switch gating, in deg.
The input for the delay angle alpha is in deg.
Example:
The figure below shows a thyristor circuit using delay angle control. In the circuit, the zero-crossing of vs,
which corresponds to the moment that the thyristor would start conducting naturally, is used to provide the
synchronization. The delay angle is set at 30o. The gating signal is delayed from the rising edge of the
synchronization signal by 30o.
vs iRL1
vsync
6.1.3 PWM Lookup Table Controller

There are four input signals in a PWM lookup table controller: the modulation index, the delay angle, the
synchronization signal, and the gating enable/disable signal. The gating pattern is selected based on the
modulation index. The synchronization signal provides the synchronization to the gating pattern. The gating
pattern is updated when the synchronization signal changes from low to high. The delay angle defines the
relative angle between the gating pattern and the synchronization signal. For example, if the delay angle is 10
deg., the gating pattern will be leading the synchronization signal by 10 deg.
Image:
Enable/Disable
Delay Mod. Sync.

Angle Index Signal
194 Chapter 6: Other Components

Attributes:
Frequency Switching frequency, in Hz
Update Angle Update angle, in deg., based on which the gatings are internally updated. If the
angle is 360o, the gatings are updated at every cycle. If it is 60o, the gatings are
updated at every 60o.
File Name Name of the file storing the PWM gating pattern
A lookup table, which is stored in a file, contains the gating patterns. It has the following format:
n, m1, m2, ..., mn
k1
G1,1, G1,2, ..., G1,k1
... ... ...
kn
Gn,1, Gn,2, ..., Gn,kn
where n is the number of gating patterns; mi is the modulation index correspondent to Pattern i; and ki is the
number of switching points in Pattern i. The modulation index array m1 to mn should be monotonically
increasing. The output will select the ith pattern if the input is smaller than or equal to mi. If the input exceeds
mn, the last pattern will be selected.
The following table shows an example of a PWM pattern file with five modulation index levels and 14
switching points.
5, 0.901, 0.910253, 0.920214, 1.199442, 1.21
14
7.736627 72.10303 80.79825 99.20176 107.8970 172.2634 180.
187.7366 252.1030 260.7982 279.2018 287.8970 352.2634 360.
14
7.821098 72.27710 80.72750 99.27251 107.7229 172.1789 180.
187.8211 252.2771 260.7275 279.2725 287.7229 352.1789 360.
14
7.902047 72.44823 80.66083 99.33917 107.5518 172.0979 180.
187.9021 252.4482 260.6608 279.3392 287.5518 352.0980 360.
14
10.186691 87.24225 88.75861 91.24139 92.75775 169.8133 180.
190.1867 267.2422 268.7586 271.2414 272.7578 349.8133 360.
14
10.189426 87.47009 88.97936 91.02065 92.52991 169.8106 180.
190.1894 267.4701 268.9793 271.0207 272.5299 349.8106 360.
In this example, if the modulation index input is 0.8, the controller will select the first gating pattern. If the
modulation index is 0.915, the controller will select the third pattern.
Example:
This example shows a three-phase voltage source inverter (file: vsi3pwm.sch). The PWM for the converter
uses the selected harmonic elimination. The gating patterns are described above and are pre-stored in File
vsi3pwm.tbl. The gating pattern is selected based on the modulation index. The waveforms of the line-to-line
voltage and the three-phase load currents are shown below.

6.2 Sensors
Voltage/current sensors measure the voltages/currents of the power circuit and send them to the control circuit.
The current sensor has an internal resistance of 1 .
Images:
Voltage Sensor Current Sensor
In the images, the dot indicates the positive terminal.

Attribute:
Gain Gain of the sensor
6.3 Probes, Meters, and Scopes

Probes and meters are used to measure voltages, currents, power, or other quantities, while scopes are used to
display voltage and current waveforms.
6.3.1 Probes and Meters

Below find the images of the ac ammeter, dc ammeter, voltage probe, current probe, ac voltmeter, dc voltmeter,
single-phase and 3-phase wattmeters and kilowatt hour (kWh) meters, VAR meters, and VA-Power Factor
meters. A voltage probe measures a node voltage with respect to ground. A two-terminal voltage probe
measures the voltage between two nodes. A current probe or meter measures the current flowing into the meter
from the dotted side. Similarly, a power meter measures the power flowing into the meter from the dotted side.
Note that all the probes and meters, except the node-to-ground probe, are allowed in the power circuit only.
While voltage/current probes measure the instantaneous voltage or current, meters measure the dc or ac
quantities. A small resistor of 1 is used in the current probe internally to measure the current.

Images:
Voltage Probe Current Probe DC Voltmeter AC Voltmeter DC Ammeter AC Ammeter
Wattmeter / 3-ph Wattmeter 3-ph VA -

VAR Meter VA-Power Factor Meter 3-ph VAR Meter
kWh Meter / kWh Meter Power Factor Meter
a a
b b
c c
Attributes:
Operating Frequency Operating frequency or fundamental frequency of the ac meter, in Hz
Cut-off Frequency Cut-off frequency of the low-pass/high-pass filter, in Hz
kWh Meter Start Time Time from which the kilowatt hour meter starts, in sec. (for W/kWh meters only)
kWh Meter Stop Time Time at which the kilowatt hour meter stops, in sec. (for W/kWh meters only)
VA Display Flag Display flag for apparent power (0: no display; 1: display) (for VA-Power Factor
meters only)
PF Display Flag Display flag for power factor (0: no display; 1: display) (for VA-Power Factor
meters only)
DPF Display Flag Display flag for displacement power factor (0: no display; 1: display) (for VA-
Power Factor meters only)
In the images for the single-phase/3-phase wattmeter / kWh meter, the node with the letter "W" is for the real
power output, in watt, and the node with the letter "kWh" is for the kilowatt hour output, in kilowatt-hour.
A low-pass filter is used in the dc meter and wattmeter models to filter out high-frequency components, whereas
a high-pass filter is used in the ac meter models to filter out the dc component. The cut-off frequency determines
the transient response of the filter.
Except the voltage and current probes, the readings of all the meters are meaningful only when the readings
reach the steady state.
The single-phase and 3-phase VAR meter measure the reactive power (VAR) at the fundamental frequency; and
the VA-Power Factor meters measure the apparent power (VA), the total power factor (PF), and the
displacement power factor (DPF). The kilowatt hour meter reading gives the integration of the real power over
a time interval defined by the start time and the stop time.
For a single-phase circuit, the real power P, reactive power Q, apparent power S, total power factor PF, and the
displacement power factor DPF are defined as follows.
Assume both the voltage and current contains harmonics, i.e.
v(t) = 2 V 1 sin ( 1 t + 1 ) + 2 V 2 sin ( 2 t + 2 ) + ...
i(t) = 2 I 1 sin ( 1 t + 1 ) + 2 I 2 sin ( 2 t + 2 ) + ...
where 1 is the fundamental frequency and all others are harmonic frequencies. We have the rms values of the

voltage and current as:
2 2
V rms = V 1 + V 2 + ...
2 2
I rms = I 1 + I 2 + ...
The real power (or average power) P is defined as:
T
1
P = --- ( v ( t ) i ( t ) ) dt
T 0
where T is the fundamental period.
The reactive power Q is defined as:
Q = V 1 I 1 sin ( 1 1 )
Note that the reactive power is for the fundamental component only.
The apparent power S is defined as:
S = V rms I rms
The total power factor PF and the displacement power factor DPF are then defined as follow:
P
PF = ---
S
DPF = cos ( 1 1 )
For the 3-phase circuit, the definitions are similar.

Note that all the 3-phase meters, including 3-phase wattmeter/kWh meter, VAR meter, VA-Power Factor meter,
are for 3-phase 3-wire circuit only, and cannot be used in 3-phase 4-wire circuit. The models of the meters are
based on the assumption that the summation of 3-phase voltages and currents must be equal to zero, that is:
va + vb + vc = 0
ia + ib + ic = 0
For 3-phase 4-wire circuit, single-phase meters should be used instead.
To use the single-phase or 3-phase wattmeter/VAR meters, insert the meters into the circuit.
Example:
This example shows how single-phase and 3-phase meters are used. The circuit on the left shows the use of the
wattmeter and VAR meter, and the circuit on the right shows the use of the three-phase wattmeter and VAR
meter.
6.3.2 Voltage/Current Scopes

While voltage/current probes and meters save the simulation results for post waveform processing, voltage/
current scopes allow users to view simulation waveforms at runtime in the middle of the simulation.
Three scopes are provided: 1-channel voltage scope, 2-channel voltage scope, 4-channel voltage scope, and
current scope.

Below are the images of the voltage and current scopes and their expanded view.
1-channel, 2-channel, and 4-channel voltage scopes Current scope
A B A B C D
Interface for current scope, and
Interface for 2-channel scope 1-channel and 4-channel voltage scopes
The 1-channel and 4-channel voltage scope and the current scope have the same interface. For the 4-channel
scope, the channel can be selected through the drop-down channel selection, and the settings apply that the
channel selected.
The scope is designed to operate in a similar way as the actual oscilloscope in the lab. It has 3 main sections:
Timebase section, Channel section, and Trigger section.
In the Timebase section, the scale of time (x axis) is defined.
In the Channel section, the scale of the Y axis, as well as the offset and the color of the waveform, are defined.
The channel display mode can be either DC, AC, or Gnd (for ground). When the display mode is in DC, the
entire waveform is displayed. If the display mode is in AC, only the ac portion of the waveform is displayed.
When the display mode is Gnd, the waveform will show 0.
In the Trigger section, the trigger conditions are defined. The trigger can be set to either ON or OFF. When the
trigger is off, the waveform is free-running, and the display of the waveform in the scope may vary from one
frame to another. If the trigger is on, the waveform display will only start when the trigger conditions are met.
This will lead to a steady waveform display.
There are three trigger modes: rising-edge triggering, falling-edge triggering, and one-shot triggering (if the
once checkbox is checked, the one-shot triggering is selected). The one-shot triggering will trigger only once,
and it is useful, for example, in situations where a transient needs to be captured.
The trigger level sets the level at which the triggering occurs. For example, if Channel A is selected with the
rising-edge triggering and the trigger level of 0V, whenever the Channel A input crosses over 0 from negative to
positive, triggering will occur and the waveform display will start from that instant.
On the scope, if the Auto scale checkbox is checked, the scale of all the channels will be automatically adjusted
so that the waveforms are within the display of the scope.
Note that voltage scopes have connecting terminals which can be connected to either power circuit nodes or
control circuit nodes. The scopes will display the node-to-ground voltages at these nodes.
The current scope, on the other hand, has no connecting terminals. It is associated with any element that has the
parameter of the current flag, and it is enabled by right clicking on top of the element, and selecting the branch
current under the Current Scopes, as shown below. After the branch current is selected, a check mark will
appear in front of the branch current name.

If the element has multiple current flags, under the Current Scopes menu, there will be multiply branch currents,
one corresponding to each current flag.
For example, for a 3-phase resistor R1, under the Current Scopes menu, there will be three branch currents:
I(R1) A, I(R1) B, and I(R1) C. The letter "A", "B", and "C" refer to Channel A, B, and C, respectively. For
example, if "I(R1) A", "I(R1) B", and "I(R1) C) are all selected, in the current scope, one can go to the Channel
pull-down menu in the Channel section, and select one of the channels for display. If Channel A is selected, the
scope will show the Phase A branch current I(R1).
6.4 Function Blocks
6.4.1 Control-Power Interface Block

A control-to-power interface block passes a control circuit value to the power circuit. It is used as a buffer
between the control and power circuit. The output of the interface block is treated as a voltage source when the
power circuit is solved. With this block, some of the functions that can only be generated in the control circuit
can be passed to the power circuit.
Image:
C/P
Example: A Constant-Power Load Model

In a constant-power dc load, the voltage V, current I, and power P have the relationship as P=V*I. Given the
voltage and the power, the current can be calculated as I=P/V. This can be implemented using the circuit as
shown below.
The load voltage is measured through a voltage sensor and is fed to a divider. The output of the divider gives the
current value I. Since the voltage could be zero or a low value at the initial stage, a limiter is used to limit the
current amplitude. This value is converted into the load current quantity through a voltage-controlled current
source.
LOAD I
V
P
k=1
Example:
The following circuit illustrates how a control circuit signal can be passed to the power circuit. As seen from the
power circuit, the CTOP block behaviors as a grounded voltage source.

Control Circuit Power Circuit
6.4.2 Transformation Blocks

Function blocks of the following transformations are provided:
- abc-dqo transformation
- abc- transformation
- -dq transformation
- Cartesian-polar transformation
All these blocks can be used in either power circuit or control circuit.
6.4.2.1 abc-dqo Transformation

The abc-dqo function blocks perform the transformation between the abc coordinate and the dqo coordinate.
The transformation is often referred to as the Park transformation.
Images:
abc to dqo dqo to abc
Attributes:
Transformation Flag Transformation flag (0: The q-axis leads the d-axis; 1: The q-axis lags the d-axis)
The angle at the bottom of the blocks is in rad.
It should be noted that, in power circuit, currents must first be converted into voltage quantities (using current-
controlled voltage sources) before they can be transformed. Also, if an input terminal is not used (such as in the
dqo-to-abc transformation block where only Phase d and q are not used, and Phase o is not used), it must be
connected to ground.
Depending on the transformation flag, the transformation equations are as follows.
From abc to dqo, with the transformation flag set to 0:
2 2
cos cos ------ cos + ------
3 3
vd va
2
vq = --- sin sin 2 2
------ sin + ------ v b
3 3 3
vo vc
1
--- 1
--- 1
---
2 2 2
From abc to dqo, with the transformation flag set to 1:

2 2
cos cos ------ cos + ------
3 3
vd va
2
vq = --- sin sin 2 2
------ sin + ------ v b
3 3 3
vo vc
1 1 1
--- --- ---
2 2 2
Note that the coefficient 2/3 in front of the transformation matrix means that the transformation is amplitude
invariant, not power invariant. That is, the dq vector amplitude is equal to the peak amplitude of the three-phase
sinusoidal waveforms. But the power in the dq frame must be multiplied by 3/2 to have the same power, i.e.
Power = va*ia + vb*ib + vc*ic = 3/2 *(vd*id+vq*iq). To have the power invariant transformation, replace 2/3 with
2 , and 1/2 with 1.
--- ---
3 2
From dqo to abc, with the transformation flag set to 0:
cos sin 1
va 2 2 vd
cos ------ sin ------ 1
vb = 3 3 vq
vc 2 2 vo
cos + ------ sin + ------ 1
3 3
From dqo to abc, with the transformation flag set to 1:
cos sin 1
va 2 2 vd
cos ------ sin ------ 1
vb = 3 3 vq
vc 2 2 vo
cos + ------ sin + ------ 1
3 3
Example:
In this example, three symmetrical ac waveforms are transformed into dqo quantities. The angle is defined as
= t where = 2*60. Since the angle changes linearly with time, a piecewise linear voltage which has a
ramp waveform is used to represent . The simulation waveforms show the three-phase ac (top), the angle
(middle), and the dqo output. In this example, the q component is constant, and both the d and the o
components are zero.
6.4.2.2 abc- Transformation

The abc- function blocks perform the transformation between the abc coordinate and the coordinate. It is
often referred to as the Clarke transformation.

Images:
abc to ab to ac to to abc
In the images, the letter "al" refers to , and the letter "be" refers to . The transformation equations are:
From abc to :
1 1 va
1 --- ---
v 2 2 2
= --- vb
v 3 3 3
0 ------- ------- vc
2 2
From ab to :
3
--- 0
v 2 v
= a
v vb
------2- 2
2
From ac to :
3
--- 0
v 2 va
=
v 2 vc
------- 2
2
From to abc:
1 0
va
2 1 - ------3- v
vb = --- --2 2
3 v
vc 1 3
--- -------
2 2
For the ab-to- and ac-to- transformation, it is assumed that va + vb + vc = 0.
6.4.2.3 -dq Transformation

The -dq function blocks perform the transformation between the coordinate to the dq coordinate.
Images:
to dq dq to
In the images, the letter "al" refers to , and the letter "be" refers to .
The transformation equations are:

From to dq:
vd cos sin v
=
vq sin cos v
From dq to :
v cos sin v d
=
v sin cos vq
6.4.2.4 Cartesian-Polar Transformation

The Cartesian-polar function blocks perform the transformation between the Cartesian coordinate and the polar
coordinate.
Images:
Cartesian to polar Polar to Cartesian
In the images, the letter "r" refers to the amplitude, and "a" refers to the phase angle , in rad.
The transformation equations are:
From Cartesian to polar:
2 2
r = x +y
y
= atan ---
x
From polar to Cartesian:
x = r cos
y = r sin
6.4.3 Math Function Blocks

The output of a math function block is expressed as the mathematical function of the inputs. With this block,
one can implement complex and nonlinear relationship easily. Blocks with 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 inputs are provided.
Images:
1-input 2-input 3-input 5-input 10-input

Attributes:
Expression f(x1,x2,...,xn) Expression of the output versus inputs where n is the number of inputs
Expression df/dxi Expression of the derivative of the function f versus the ith input
The derivative df/dxi can be set to zero.

The variables that are allowed in the expression are: T or t for time, and xi (i from 1 to n) which represents the ith
input. For example, for the 3-input math function block, the allowed variables are: T, t, x1, x2, and x3. For the 1-
input math function block, the variable x, which refers to the only input, is also allowed.
6.4.4 Lookup Tables

There are four lookup table blocks: One-dimensional regular lookup table and lookup table with data from
Simview graph, and 2-dimensional lookup tables with integer input and floating-point input.
All four lookup tables can be used in both power circuit and control circuit.
Images:
1-dimensional 2-dimensional
Simview graph Integer Floating
Index j
point
Index i
Attributes for one-dimensional lookup table (Simview graph):
Graph File Name of the Simview file to be used as the lookup table data
Input Column Input column of the lookup table, selected from a drop-down menu after a graph file is
loaded.
Output Column Output column of the lookup table, selected from a drop-down menu after a graph file is
loaded.
For 2-dimensional lookup tables, the node on the left is for the row index input, and the node on the top is for
the column index input.
A one-dimensional lookup table has one input and one output. Two data arrays, corresponding to the input and
output arrays, are stored in a lookup table.
A 2-dimensional lookup table with integer input has two inputs. The output data is stored in a 2-dimensional
matrix. The two inputs correspond to the row and column indices of the matrix. For example, if the row index is
3 and the column index is 4, the output will be A(3,4) where A is the data matrix.
A 2-dimensional lookup table with floating-point input is similar to the lookup table with integer input. The
difference is that inputs are floating-point values, and interpolation is used to calculate the output.
Except the one-dimensional lookup table (Simview graph) where data is defined in a Simview file, there are two
ways to define lookup table data. One is to enter the data directly in the dialog window in the Lookup Table
tab. Another is to prepare the lookup table externally using a text editor, and define the file in the dialog
window.
To enter the data directly in the dialog window, define the number of rows (and columns for 2-dimensional
lookup tables), and click on Set. Then enter the values in the data cells provided. For 2-dimensional lookup
tables with floating-point input, also enter row input array in the left most column and column input array in the
top most row.
To prepare the data externally in a text file, define the data in the format as described below. Then click on

Open File... to load the file. Click on Reload Data if the text file is modified after it is loaded. Click on Save
As... to save the data to an external file.
Note that the external text file is optional. When an external text file is not defined, the internal data is used. But
if an external text file is defined, the text file takes the precedence and will overwrite the internal data. It is
important to note that, if the dialog window is closed, the external file will be saved automatically when one
closes the dialog window (by clicking on X at the upper right corner of the dialog window). Also, a copy of the
external text file is saved into the schematic file. In the case where the schematic file is moved to a different
computer and the external text file does not exist, PSIM will recreate the text file from the last time.
The data format for one-dimensional lookup tables is:
Vin(1), Vo(1)
Vin(2), Vo(2)
...
Vin(N), Vo(N)
The input array Vin must be monotonically increasing. Between two points, linear interpolation is used to obtain
the output. When the value of the input is less than Vin(1) or greater than Vin(N), the output will be clamped to
Vo(1) or Vo(N).
The data format for 2-dimensional lookup tables with integer input is:
M, N
A11, A12, ..., A1N
A21, A22, ..., A2N
... ... ...
AM1, AM2, ..., AMN
where M and N are the number of rows and columns, respectively. Since the row or column index must be an
integer, the input value is automatically converted to an integer. If either the row or column index is out of the
range (for example, the row index is less than 1 or greater than m), the output will be zero.
The data format for 2-dimensional lookup tables with floating-point input is:
M, N
Vr1 Vr2 ... VrM
Vc1 Vc2 ... VcN
A11, A12, ..., A1N
A21, A22, ..., A2N
... ... ...
AM1, AM2, ..., AMN
where m is the number of rows and n is the number of columns; Vr is the row vector and Vc is the column vector;
and A(i,j) is the output value at Row i and Column j. Note that Vectors Vr and Vc must be monotonically
increasing.
If an input falls between two points, interpolation is used to calculate the value. If an input is less than the
minimum or greater than the maximum value, the input will be set to be the same as the minimum or maximum
value.
Examples:
The following shows a one-dimensional lookup table:
1., 10.
2., 30.
3., 20.
4., 60.
5., 50.
( 1.5 1 ) ( 30 10 )
If the input is 0.99, the output will be 10. If the input is 1.5, the output will be 10 + -------------------------------------------------- =20.
21

The following shows a 2-dimensional lookup table with integer inputs:
3, 4
1., -2., 4., 1.
2., 3., 5., 8.
3., 8., -2., 9.
If the row index is 2 and the column index is 4, the output will be 8. If the row index is 5, regardless of the
column index, the output will be 0.
The following shows a 2-dimensional lookup table with floating-point inputs:
3, 4
1.1 2.2 3.3
1.2 2.3 3.4 4.5
1., -2., 4., 1.
2., 3., 5., 8.
3., 8., -2., 9.
If the row input is 2 and the column input is 3, the following table shows the four points that enclose the input
point, and the output value of 3.826 through interpolation:
Column
2.3 3 3.4
1.1 -2 4
Row 2 2.091 3.826 4.818
2.2 3 5
6.4.5 C Block
A C block allows users to enter C code directly without compiling the code, unlike in external DLL blocks
where the code needs to be compiled into a DLL using an external compiler. The code of the C block will be
interpreted and executed at runtime by a built-in C interpreter in PSIM.
The interface of the C block dialog window is shown below.
Input/output
ports
Edit block image

Check code
syntax
Area for
custom code

Number of input and output ports of the C block is defined in the Number of Input/Output Ports section. If the
number of ports is changed, the image of the block in the schematic will change accordingly.
The code area includes four main sections:
Variable/Function Definitions:This section includes statements and global variable definition.
Simulation Step Function:This function is called at each simulation step.
SimulationBegin Function:This function is called only once at the beginning of the simulation for
initialization.
SimulationEnd Function:This function is called only once at the end of the simulation for termination.
Click on the Check Code button to check if the code has any compiling errors. Click on the Edit Image button
to customize the image of the C block.
For example, assume that a C block has 2 inputs and 3 outputs. After numbers of input/output ports are defined,
the C block will have an image in PSIM as follows:
2-input / 3-output
in[0] out[0]
input out[1] output
in[1] out[2]
The node sequence is from the top to the bottom.

In C code, the in array is used to pass the values from PSIM into the C block, and the out array is used to pass
the values from the C block back to PSIM. In this example, the first input, which corresponds to in[0] in the
code, is the node at the top left, and the first output, which corresponds to out[0] in the code, is at the top right.
The difference between the C block and the external DLL block is that, even though the C block is easier to use,
it does have the disadvantage that the custom code in the C block can not be debugged, while in the external
DLL block it is possible to set break points and trace/step through the code for debugging.
6.4.6 Simplified C Block

A simplified C block is a special case of the C block. Unlike the C block that contains a variable/function
definition section and three functions, the simplified C block contains only the C code that is called and ran at
every time step, corresponding to the code for the SimulationStep function.
The interface of the simplified C block dialog window is shown below.
Input/output
ports
Area for
custom code

The number of input and output ports of the ports is defined in the Number of Input/Output Ports section. After
the number of ports is changed, the image of the block in the schematic will change accordingly.
Variables that can be used in the code include:
t: Time passed from PSIM
delt:Time step passed from PSIM
x1, x2, ... :Inputs 1, 2, etc.
y1, y2, ... :Outputs 1, 2, etc.
Unlike the C block, the simplified C block can be used for automatic code generation.
6.4.7 External DLL Blocks

An external DLL (dynamic link library) block allows users to write code in C/C++, compile it into DLL using
Microsoft Visual C/C++, and link it with PSIM. These blocks can be used in either the power circuit or the
control circuit.
A DLL block receives values from PSIM as inputs, performs the calculation, and sends the results back to
PSIM. PSIM calls the DLL routine at each simulation time step. However, when the inputs of the DLL block
are connected to one of these discrete elements (zero-order hold, unit delay, discrete integrators and
differentiators, z-domain transfer function blocks, and digital filters), the DLL block is called only at the
discrete sampling times.
Two types of DLL blocks are provided: Simple DLL Block and General DLL Block. The simple DLL block has
a fixed number of inputs and outputs, and the DLL file name is the only parameter that needs to be defined. On
the other hand, the general DLL block allows users to define arbitrary number of inputs/outputs and additional
parameters. Users can also customize the DLL block image.
The simple DLL block is easier to program and use.
Simple DLL blocks with 1 input/out up to 25 inputs/outputs are provided. The images and parameters of DLL
blocks with 1, 3, and 6 inputs/outputs are shown below.
Images:
1-input 3-input 6-input
1 1 1 1
2 2
3 3
6 6
input output
Attribute:
File Name Name of the DLL file
The node with a dot is for the first input (in[0]). The input/output node sequence is from the top to the bottom.
The images and parameters of a general DLL block are shown below.
Image (for a block with 2 inputs and 3 outputs):
1
1
input 2 output
2 3

Attribute:
DLL File Name of the DLL file
Input Data File Name of the input data file that DLL reads (optional)
Number of Input Nodes Number of input nodes (optional)
Number of Output Nodes Number of output nodes (optional)
IN Nodes List of input nodes (optional)
OUT Nodes List of output nodes (optional)
Parameter 1 Parameter to be passed from PSIM into DLL (optional)
Parameter 2 Parameter to be passed from PSIM into DLL (optional)
Edit Image (button) Click this button to edit and customize the image of the DLL block.
Display File (button) Click this button to display the content of the Input Data File (optional).
Read File (button) If the Input Data File is modified, click this button to reload the data file
(optional).
The node with a dot is the first input (in[0]). The input/output node sequence is from the top to the bottom.
By default, users define the number of inputs and outputs. But the number of inputs and outputs, the node
names, as well as the number of parameters and the parameter names can all be defined inside the DLL routine.
For more details on defining and programming for the general DLL block, please refer to the help file "Help
General DLL Block.pdf" and related examples.
The name of the DLL file can be arbitrary. The DLL file can be placed in one of the two places, in the order of
precedence: in the PSIM directory, and in the same directory as the schematic file that uses the DLL file.
Note: When a DLL file is used in multiple DLL blocks in a schematic, if global or static variables are declared
and used in the DLL code, these global/static variables will be the same and be shared among all the DLL
blocks. If this is not what users intended, the DLL calculation can be incorrect, and users should avoid using
global/static variables in the code in this case.
Several examples using the simple DLL blocks and the general DLL blocks are provided in the
"examples\custom DLL" sub-folder in the PSIM directory.
6.4.8 Embedded Software Block

An Embedded Software Block is a special type of the external DLL blocks. It is intended for modeling
embedded software devices such as microcontrollers and DSP.
Attribute:
DLL File Name of the DLL file that defines the functionality and the interface of the block
Number of Nodes Total number of input and output nodes
An Embedded Software Block has similar functionality as a general external DLL block. However, unlike the
general DLL block whose connection nodes are predefined as either inputs or outputs, the Embedded Software
Block allows the node types to be programmed as needed. Also, additional information, such as the exact
instant at which the state of a variable changes, can be calculated and passed to and from PSIM.
The Embedded Software Block is a control circuit element, and can be used in the control circuit only.
For more information on how to use the Embedded Software Block, please refer to the document "Help
Embedded Software Block.pdf".

6.5 IC Models
Several PWM IC and driver IC models are provided.
6.5.1 PWM IC
The following PWM IC models are provided:
Images:
UC3823A/B UC3825A/B UC3842/3843 UC3844/3845 UC3846 UC3854
1 16 1 16 1 8 1 8 1 16 1 16
INV VREF INV VREF COMP VREF COMP VREF ILIM STDN GND GDRV
NI VCC NI VCC VFB VCC VFB VCC VREF VIN PKLM VCC
EA OUTB EA OUTB IS OUT IS OUT CS- BOUT CAO CT
CLK VC CLK VC GND IS
4 Rt/Ct 5 4
Rt/Ct GND 5 CS+ VC SS
RT PGND RT PGND NI GND MOUT RSET
CT OUTA CT OUTA INV AOUT IAC VS
RAMP GND RAMP GND COMP SYNC VAO ENA
SS ILIM SS ILIM CT RT VRMS VREF
8 9 8 9 8 9 8 9
UC3854A/B UC3872 UCC3806 UCC3817/3818 UCC3895

1 16 1 14 1 16 1 16 1 20
GND GDRV BOUT GND ILIM STDN GND DRV EAN EAP
PKLM VCC AOUT PGND VREF VIN PKLM VCC EAO SS
CAO CT VC COUT CS- BOUT CAO CT RAMP OUTA
IS SS COMP ENB CS+ VC CAI SS REF OUTB
MOUT RSET SS VCC NI GND MOUT RT GND PGND
IAC VS INV VREF INV AOUT IAC VS SYNC VCC
VAO ENA CT ZD COMP SYNC VAO OVP CT OUTC
7 8
VRMS VREF CT RT VFF VREF RT OUTD
8 9 8 9 8 9
DLAB CS
DLCD ADS
10 11
Attribute:
Model Level All these IC models have two levels:
- Level 1: The PWM gating outputs are control signals with logic level of 1
(high) and 0 (low)
- Level 2: the PWM gating outputs are power signals which can directly
drive three-state switches.
PWM IC Descriptions:
UC3823A/B, High speed PWM controller for high frequency switch-mode power
UC3825A/B supplies. The UC3823A and UC3823B and the UC3825A and UC3825B
family of PWM controllers are improved versions of the standard UC3823
and UC3825 family.
UC3842/3843, UC3844/3845 Current mode fixed frequency PWM controller for off-line or dc-dc
converters. The UC3842/3/4/5 family of control devices provides the
necessary functions to implement off-line or dc-to-dc fixed frequency
current mode control schemes.
UC3846 Current mode fixed frequency PWM controller for off-line or dc-dc
converters. The UC3846 family of control ICs provides the necessary
functions to implement fixed frequency, current mode control schemes.
UC3854, UC3854A/B High power factor preregulator providing active power factor correction.
UC3854A/B products are pin compatible enhanced versions of the
UC3854. It provides all the functions necessary for active power factor
corrected preregulators.

UC3872 Resonant lamp ballast controller. The UC3872 is a resonant lamp ballast
controller optimized for driving cold cathode fluorescent, neon, and other
gas discharge lamps.
UCC3806 Low power, dual output, current mode PWM controller. With the same
block diagram and pinout of the popular UC3846 series, the UCC3806 line
features increased switching frequency capability while reducing the bias
current used within the device.
UCC3817/3818 BiCMOS power factor preregulator with average current mode control. The
UCC3817/18 family provides all the functions necessary for active power
factor corrected preregulators. The controller achieves near unity power
factor by shaping the ac input line current waveform to correspond to that
of the ac input line voltage.
UCC3895 BiCMOS advanced phase-shift PWM controller for full bridge power stage.
The UCC3895 is a phase-shift PWM controller that implements control of a
full-bridge power stage by phase shifting the switching of one half-bridge
with respect to the other. It allows constant frequency pulse-width
modulation in conjunction with resonant zero-voltage switching to provide
high efficiency at high frequencies.
6.5.2 Driver IC
PSIM has implemented the following power switching devices driver models:
Images:
IR21834 IRS21867 TC4423A TC4425A TC4427A
1 14 1 8 1 8 1 8 1 8
HIN Vcc VB NC NC NC NC NC NC
LIN VB HIN HO INA OUTA INA OUTA INA OUTA
VSS HO LIN Vs GND VDD GND VDD GND VDD
DT VS COM LO INB OUTB INB OUTB INB OUTB
4 5 4 5 4 5 4 5
COM
LO TC4424A TC4426A TC4428A
1 8 1 8 1 8
Vcc NC NC NC NC NC NC
7 8
INA OUTA INA OUTA INA OUTA
GND VDD GND VDD GND VDD
INB OUTB INB OUTB INB OUTB
4 5 4 5 4 5
Driver IC Description:
IR21834 Half-bridge driver for high voltage, high speed power MOSFET and IGBT
with dependent high and low side referenced output channels.
IRS21867 High and low side driver for voltage, high speed power MOSFET and
IGBT driver with independent high and low side referenced output
channels.
TC4423A, TC4424A, TC4425A 3A dual output high-speed power MOSFET drivers.
TC4423A: dual inverting.
TC4424A: dual non-inverting.
TC4425A: one inverting and one non-inverting.
TC4426A, TC4427A, TC4428A 1.5A dual output high-speed power MOSFET drivers.
TC4426A: dual inverting.
TC4427A: dual non-inverting.
TC4428A: one inverting and one non-inverting.

6.5.3 555 Timer
The 555 Timer is a highly stable device for generating accurate time delays or oscillation. Additional terminals
are provided for triggering or resetting if desired. In the time delay mode of operation, the time is precisely
controlled by external resistor and capacitor.
In PSIM model, the OUT signal of the 555 Timer is a control signal node.
Images:
555
1 8
GND VCC
TRIG DISC
OUT THRS
REST VCTL
4 5
6.6 Initial Values

The initial node voltages of the power circuit and control circuit can be defined using this block. This value will
not be kept as soon as the simulation started.
Image:
Attribute:
Initial Value Initial value of the node voltage
6.7 Parameter File

A parameter file defines the variables used in a circuit. For example, the resistance of a resistor can be specified
as R1, and R1 is defined in a parameter file. Also, a parameter file can be used by itself as a computational tool.
Image:
A parameter file is a text file created by a text editor. It supports the following format:
// Text from the character // to the end of the line is treated as comment
k1 = 12.3 // Define the value of the variable k1
k1 = a + b*c // Define k1 in a math expression
(global) k1 = 12.3// Define k1 as a global variable (for use in SimCoder)
L1 = 3m // power-of-ten suffix is supported. L1 = 3e-3
C1 = 100uF // C1 = 100e-6. The unit "F" is ignored.
Note that, as compared to Version 9.1, the following format is no longer supported:
LIMIT var1 Vlow Vupper // This should be replaced by the "if...else if..." statement
% as comment. Now comments must start with double slash //. % is now used as modulo operation.
var1 value (for example "R1 2.5"). Now an equal sign must be used to define a variable.

The definition "(global)" is used in SimCoder only for automatic code generation. Please refer to the SimCoder
User Manual on how it is used. For PSIM simulation, this definition is ignored. That is, a parameter definition
"(global) K1 = 1.2" is treated the same as "K1 = 1.2".
In addition, conditional statements and error/warning message functions are supported, as shown below:
if (k1 > 10)
{
a = 10
b=1
}
else if (k1 <= 20)
{
a = 20
b=2
}
else
{
Error {"Error: The value of k1 is out of the range. k1 = %f", k1}
}
if (k1 == 20)
{
Warning {"Warning: The value of k1 is equal to %.0f", k1)
}
When writing the conditional statements "if...else if...else...", the standard C syntax applies (without the
semicolon; at the end of each statement though).
Supported operators and mathematical functions in a parameter file are:
+ - * / % (modulo) ^ (to the power of) = == != > >= < <= ! && ||
sin(r), cos(r), tan(r), asin(x), acos(x), atan(x), atan2(x,y), sinh(x), cosh(x), tanh(x)
pow(x,y) (x to the power of y), sqrt(x), exp(x), ln(x) (or log(x)), log10(x), abs(x), sign(x)
if {...} else if {...} else {...}
iif (comparison, value1, value2) // inline if statement (note it is "iif" not "if")
Error ("Error text %f, %f", var1, var2) // up to 5 variables are supported
Warning ("Warning text %f, %f", var1, var2) // up to 5 variables are supported
Note that the input or output of all trigonometric functions is in rad. Also, the Error or Warning reporting
functions can control the variable number format, as shown below.
Error {"Error message"}
Error {"Error message %.nf", k1}// Print the value of k1, where n is the number of digits after the
// decimal point. For example, if k1 = 12.34, %.1f will give 12.3
Warning {"Warning message"}
Warning {"Warning message %.nf", k1}// Print the value of k1, where n is the number of digits after
the
// decimal point. For example, if k1 = 12.34, %.1f will give 12.3
An Error function will stop the simulation, while a Warning function will allow the simulation to proceed.
To display the variable values of a parameter file, go to Edit >> Show Values. For example, the figure below
shows a parameter file on the left, and the values on the right.

The function Show Values provides a very convenient way of checking the calculation.
Parameter File in Circuit Schematic:
When a parameter file element is used in a circuit schematic, it has the same hierarchy as the circuit in which it
resides. A variable defined in a parameter file in a higher-level circuit can be used in all lower circuits, but not
the other way around. Also, a variable define in a parameter file in circuit cannot be used in another circuit of
the same level.
For example, assume that a main circuit contain a parameter file "main_param.txt", and the main circuit
contains two subcircuits S1 and S2, with a parameter file "sub1_param.txt" in S1 and another parameter file
"sub2_param.txt" in S2. A variable defined in "main_param.txt" can be used in both S1 and S2 circuits as well
as in parameter files "sub1_param.txt" and "sub2_param.txt". However, a variable defined in "sub1_param.txt"
or "sub2_param.txt" can not be used in the higher level main circuit and in "main_param.txt".
Similarly, since Subcircuits S1 and S2 are parallel, a variable defined in "sub1_param.txt" cannot be used in
Subcircuit S2 and "sub2_param.txt", and vice versa.
In addition, when PSIM saves a parameter file, it will save the information of both the relative path and absolute
path of the parameter file, as well as a copy of the content of the parameter file.
When PSIM loads a schematic with a parameter file element, it will search and load the parameter file in the
following order: relative path (relative to the schematic file), absolute path, and the local path (the local folder
where the schematic file is). If PSIM still can not find the parameter file, it will create the parameter file in the
local schematic folder from the copy that it saved in the schematic file.
Parameter Tool:
With the capability to show variable values and handle conditional statements, the parameter file element
becomes a very useful computational tool in its own right. To facilitate its usage, a function is provided to open
a parameter file without the need of a schematic. To access this function, go to Utilities >> Parameter Tool.
6.8 AC Analysis
6.8.1 AC Sweep
The frequency response of a circuit or a control loop can be obtained with the ac analysis. A key feature of the
ac analysis in PSIM is that, a circuit can be in its original switchmode form, and no average model is required.
Nevertheless, with the average model, it takes much shorter time to perform the ac analysis.
The following are the steps to set up the ac analysis:
- Identify a sinusoidal voltage source as the excitation source for the ac sweep.
- Place ac sweep probes at the desired output location. To measure the loop response of a closed control
loop, use the node-to-node probe.
- Place the AC Sweep block on the schematic, and define the parameters of the ac sweep.
- Run the simulation.

Below are the images of the ac sweep probes and the AC Sweep block.
Images:
AC Sweep Probe AC Sweep Probe (loop) AC Sweep
Attributes:
Start Frequency Start frequency of the ac sweep, in Hz
End Frequency End frequency of the ac sweep, in Hz
No. of Points Number of data points
Flag for Points Flag to define how the data points is generated.
Flag = 0: Points are distributed linearly in LOG10 scale
Flag = 1: Points are distributed linearly in linear scale
Source Name Name of the excitation source
Start Amplitude Excitation source amplitude at the start frequency
End Amplitude Excitation source amplitude at the end frequency
Freq. for extra Points Frequencies of additional data points. If the frequency-domain characteristics
change rapidly at a certain frequency range, one can add extra points in this region
to obtain better data resolution.
The principle of the ac analysis is that a small ac excitation signal is injected into the system as the perturbation,
and the signal at the same frequency is extracted at the output. To obtain accurate ac analysis results, the
excitation source amplitude must be set properly. The amplitude must be small enough so that the perturbation
stays in the linear region. On the other hand, the excitation source amplitude must be large enough so that the
output signal is not affected by numerical errors.
In general, a physical system has low attenuation in the low frequency range and high attenuation in the high
frequency range. A good selection of the excitation source amplitude would be to have a relatively small
amplitude at the low frequency, and a relatively large amplitude at the high frequency.
Sometimes, after ac analysis is complete, a warning message is displayed as follows:
Warning: The program did not reach the steady state after 60 cycles. See File message.txt for more details.
This message occurs when the software fails to detect the steady state at the ac sweep output after 60 cycles. To
address this problem, one may increase damping in the circuit (by including parasitic resistances, for example),
or adjust the excitation source amplitude, or reduce simulation time step. The file message.txt gives the
information on the frequency at which this occurs and the relative error. The relative error will indicate how far
the data point is from reaching the steady state.
Example: Open-Loop Response of a Buck Converter
The circuit on the left is an one-quadrant buck converter. An excitation source is injected to the modulation
signal, and the output voltage is measured. The result of the ac analysis, on the right, shows the open-loop
response of the output voltage versus the modulation signal.

Example: Loop Transfer Function of a Closed-Loop Circuit
The ac analysis can be used to find out the loop response of a closed-loop system. The circuit below shows a
buck converter with average current mode control. By injecting the excitation signal into the current feedback
path, and using the node-to-node ac sweep probe, we can obtain the loop transfer function directly. With the
loop transfer function, one can determine the bandwidth of the control loop and the phase margin.
Please note that the ac sweep probe should be connected such that the dotted side is connected to the node after
the excitation source injection.
Example: Loop Transfer Function of a Switchmode Power Supply

The loop transfer function of a switchmode power supply controlled by a PWM IC can also be determined in a
similar way. The figure below shows a buck converter controlled by TI UC3842. The excitation source can be
inserted in the feedback path, before the op. amp. output.

6.8.2 AC Sweep Multi-Sine
The AC Sweep (multisine) block has the same functionality as the AC sweep. Its advantage is to simulate
multiple frequency of sine-wave in only one cycle of the lowest frequency wave.
Image:
AC
Sweep
m-sine
Attributes:
Start Frequency Start frequency of the ac sweep, in Hz
End Frequency End frequency of the ac sweep, in Hz
No. of Points Number of data points
Flag for Points Flag to define how the data points is generated.
Flag = 0: Points are distributed linearly in LOG10 scale
Flag = 1: Points are distributed linearly in linear scale
Source Name Name of the excitation source
Source Amplitude Excitation source peak amplitude at the start frequency.
Number of Cycles The number of cycles of the excitation source amplitude to be simulated
Steady State Time The time predicted when the circuit has completed transient and reached steady
state, in second. User may make approximated estimation of this value or run a
single time simulation to determine it.

6.9 Parameter Sweep
Parameter sweep can be performed on any parameters:
The image and parameters of the parameter sweep block are shown below.
Image:
Attributes:
Name Name of the parameter to be swept
Start Starting value of the parameter
End End value of the parameter
Increment Increment step value of the parameter
Enabled When checked, the parameter line will be enabled.
For example, let the resistance of a resistor be Ro. To sweep the resistance from 2 Ohm to 10 Ohm, with an
increment step value of 2 Ohm, check the Enabled checkbox, and define the following:
Name Ro
Start 2
End 10
Increment 2
Parameter sweep will produce two plots: One is the outputs versus time, and the other is the outputs at the last
simulation point versus the swept parameter.
For example, a circuit has two outputs V1 and V2, and the resistance Ro is swept. The total simulation time is
0.1 sec. After the simulation, there will be two plots in Simview. One is V1 and V2 versus time. The other is V1
and V2 versus Ro. The V1 and V2 values used in the second plot are the values at the last simulation point at 0.1
sec.

7
Sources
Several types of independent voltage/current sources are available in PSIM. The notation of a current source
direction is: the current flows out of the higher-potential node, through the external circuit, and back into the
lower-potential node of the source.
Note that current sources can be used in the power circuit only.
7.1 Constant
The constant element allows users to define a constant. It behaviors as a grounded voltage source.
Image:
Attribute:
Value Value of the constant
7.2 Time
The Time element is a special case of the piecewise linear voltage source. It is treated as a grounded voltage
source, and the value is equal to the simulation time, in sec.
Image:
7.3 Ground
There are three different ground elements in PSIM library. Although they are in different shape, they are
electrically connected together. The different shape of these grounds provide the convenience for user to
separate the grounding in different functional sections of the circuits.
Images:
Ground Ground (1) Ground (2)
Chapter 7: Sources 221

7.4 Voltage and Current Sources
7.4.1 DC Source
A dc source has a constant amplitude. The reference of the grounded dc voltage sources is the ground.
Images:
DC DC (battery) Grounded DC (circle) Grounded DC (T) Current
Attribute:
Amplitude Amplitude of the source
Series Resistance Source series resistance, in Ohm (for DC and DC (battery) voltage sources only)
Series Inductance Source series Inductance, in H (for DC and DC (battery) voltage sources only)
The series resistance and inductance represent the source impedance.
7.4.2 Sinusoidal Source

A sinusoidal source is defined as:
v o = V m sin ( 2 f t + ) + V offset
The specifications can be illustrated as follows.

Vm
Voffset
t
1/f
Images:
Voltage Current
Attributes:
Peak Amplitude Peak amplitude Vm
Frequency Frequency f, in Hz
Phase Angle Initial phase angle , in deg.
DC Offset DC offset Voffset
222 Chapter 7: Sources

Series Resistance Source series resistance, in Ohm (for voltage source only)
Series Inductance Source series inductance, in H (for voltage source only)
Tstart Starting time, in sec. Before this time, the source is 0.
To facilitate the setup of three-phase circuits, a symmetrical three-phase Y-connected sinusoidal voltage source
is provided. The dotted phase of the source refers to Phase A.
Image:
3-phase Voltage
a
Attributes:
V (line-line rms) Line-to-line rms voltage amplitude
Frequency Frequency f, in Hz
Initial Angle (phase A) Initial angle for Phase A, in deg.
Series Resistance Source series resistance, in Ohm
Series Inductance Source series inductance, in H
7.4.3 Square-Wave Source

A square-wave voltage source or current source is defined by peak-to-peak amplitude, frequency, duty-cycle,
and DC offset. The duty cycle is defined as the ratio between the high-potential interval versus the period.
Images:
Voltage Current
Attributes:
Vpeak-peak Peak-to-peak amplitude Vpp
Frequency Frequency, in Hz
Duty Cycle Duty cycle D of the high-potential interval
Phase Delay Phase delay of the waveform, in deg.
The specifications of a square wave source are illustrated as follows.

Vpp
D*T Voffset
0 t
T
(T=1/f)
When the phase delay is positive, the waveform is shifted to the right along the time axis.
7.4.4 Triangular/Sawtooth Sources

A triangular-wave voltage source or current source is defined by peak-to-peak amplitude, frequency, duty-cycle,
and DC offset. The duty cycle is defined as the ratio between the rising-slope interval versus the period.
Images:
Voltage Current
Attributes:
Vpeak-peak Peak-to-peak amplitude Vpp
Duty Cycle Duty cycle D of the rising slope interval
Phase Delay Phase delay of the waveform, in deg.
The specifications of a triangular wave source are illustrated as:
D*T Vpp
0 t
Voffset
T

(T=1/f)
When the phase delay is positive, the waveform is shifted to the right along the time axis.
A sawtooth-wave voltage source is a special case of the triangular source with the duty cycle of 1 and dc offset
and phase delay of 0, and with one node grounded. It is defined as below:
Image:
Sawtooth-wave

Attributes:
Vpeak Peak amplitude
7.4.5 Step Sources

A step voltage/current source changes from one level to another at a given time. Two types of step sources are
provided: one that changes from 0 to a certain level (refer to as Step in the library), and the other that changes
from one level to another level (referred to as Step (2-level) in the library).
Images:
Voltage Current
Attributes:
For the Step type source:
Vstep Value Vstep after the step change
Tstep Time Tstep at which the step change occurs
For the Step (2-level) type source:
Vstep1 Value Vstep1 before the step change
Vstep2 Value Vstep2 after the step change
Tstep Time Tstep at which the step change occurs
T_transition Transition time Ttransition from Vstep1 to Vstep2
The specifications of the voltage step sources are illustrated as follows:

Step Type Step (2-level) Type
Vstep Vstep2
Vstep1
Ttransition
0 Tstep t 0 Tstep t
7.4.6 Piecewise Linear Source

The waveform of a piecewise linear source consists of piecewise linear segments. It is defined by the number of
points, the values and the corresponding time (in sec.). The values and times can be entered either separately, or
in pair.
Images:

Voltage Current
Attributes:
For the sources that define the values and times separately:
Frequency Frequency of the waveform, in Hz
No. of Points n No. of points
Values V1...Vn Values at each point
Time T1...Tn Time at each point, in sec.
For the sources that define the values and times in pair:
Frequency Frequency of the waveform, in Hz
Times, Values (t1,v1) ... Time and value at each point
The time and value pair must be enclosed by left and right brackets. The time and value can be separated by
either a comma, such as (1.2m,5.5), or a space, such as (1.2m 5.5), or both, such as (1.2m, 5.5).
Example:
The following is a non-periodic piecewise linear source. It has 3 segments which can be defined by four points
(marked in the figure).
3
2
1
Time (sec.)
0 0.1 0.2 0.3
The specification for the piecewise linear voltage source will be:
Frequency 0.
No. of Points n 4
Values V1...Vn 1. 1. 3. 3.
Times T1...Tn 0. 0.1 0.2 0.3
The specification for the piecewise linear (in pair) voltage source will be:
Frequency 0.
Times, Values (t1,v1)... (0., 1) (0.1, 1) (0.2, 3) (0.3, 3)
7.4.7 Random Source

The amplitude of a random voltage source (VRAND) or current source (IRAND) is determined randomly at

each simulation time step. A random source is defined as:
v o = V m n + V offset
where Vm is the peak-to-peak amplitude of the source, n is a random number in the range of 0 to 1, and Voffset is
the dc offset.
Images:
Voltage Current
Attributes:
Peak-Peak Amplitude Peak-to-peak amplitude of the source
DC Offset DC offset
7.4.8 Math Function Source

A math function source allows one to define the source in a mathematical expression.
Image:
Attributes:
Expression The mathematical expression of the source
Tstart Start time of the source
In the expression, T or t represents time. For example, to implement a sinusoidal source, the expression will
be: sin(2*3.14159*60*t+2.09).
7.4.9 Voltage/Current-Controlled Sources

The following types of controlled sources are available:
- Voltage controlled voltage source
- Current controlled voltage source
- Voltage controlled current source
- Current controlled current source
- Variable-gain voltage controlled voltage source
- Variable-gain voltage controlled current source
The controlling current of a current controlled source must come from a RLC branch. Also, for a controlled
current source, the controlling voltage or current can not be an independent source.
Note that controlled sources can be used in the power circuit only.

Images:
Voltage-controlled Current-controlled Current-controlled Variable-gain

(flowing through) voltage-controlled
vin1 vin2
Current-controlled Variable-gain
Voltage-controlled Current-controlled voltage-controlled
(flowing through)
vin1 vin2
Attribute:
Gain Gain of the source
For voltage-controlled sources, the controlling voltage is from the positive node (+) to the negative node (-).
For current-controlled sources (with an arrow pointing from one node to another), the control nodes are
connected across a RLC branch, and the direction of the controlling current is indicated by the arrow.
For current-controlled sources (with a wire connecting the two nodes), the controlling current flows from one
control node to another, as indicated by the arrow. A 10-uOhm resistor is used to sense the controlling current.
The output of a controlled source, except variable-gain controlled sources, is equal to the gain multiplied by the
controlling voltage or current. For the variable-gain controlled sources, the output is equal to the following:
v o = ( k v in 2 ) v in 1
i o = ( k v in 2 ) v in 1
Input 1 is on the side with the multiplication sign, and Input 2 is on the side with the letter k.
The difference between a variable-gain controlled source and a nonlinear source with multiplication is that, for
the nonlinear source with multiplication, values of both vin1 and vin2 at the current time step are used to calculate
the output and are updated in each iteration. But for the variable-gain controlled source, it is assumed that the
change of vin2 is small from one time step to the next, and the value of vin2 at the previous time step is used at
the current time step. This assumption is valid as long as vin2 changes at a much slower rate as compared to vin1
and the time step is small as compared to the change of vin2. Variable-gain controlled sources can be used in
circuits which may otherwise have convergence problem with nonlinear sources with multiplication.
Example:
The circuits below illustrates the use of current controlled voltage sources. In the circuit on the left, the voltage
source is controlled by the inductor current is. With a gain of 1, the waveform of the voltage vis is equal to that
of is. In this way, a current quantity can be converted to a voltage quantity.

The circuit on the right is equivalent to that on the left, except that a different current controlled source is used
instead.
Vis Vis
is is
7.4.10 Nonlinear Voltage-Controlled Sources

The output of a nonlinear voltage-controlled source is either the multiplication, division, or square-root of the
inputs. They are defined as:
Nonlinear (multiplication):Output v o = k v in 1 v in 2 ori o = k v in 1 v in 2
v in 1 v in 1
Nonlinear (division):Output v o = k ---------
- or i o = k ---------
-
v in 2 v in 2
Nonlinear (square-root):Output v o = k v in 1 or i o = k v in 1
k2
Nonlinear (power):Outputv o = sign ( v in ) k ( k 1 v in )
In the nonlinear power source, the term sign(vin) is 1 if vin is positive, and it is -1 if vin is negative.
Note that these nonlinear sources can be used in the power circuit only.
Images:
Multiplication Division Square-root Power
vin1 vin2
vin1 vin2
Attributes:
For all the sources except the nonlinear power source:
Gain Gain k of the source
For the nonlinear power source:
Gain Gain k of the source

For the nonlinear (division) source, Input 1 is on the side of the division sign.

8
Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues
8.1 Simulation Issues
8.1.1 Time Step Selection

PSIM uses the fixed time step in the simulation. In order to assure accurate results, the simulation time step
should be properly chosen. The factors that limit the time step in a circuit include the switching period, widths
of pulses or square waveforms, and intervals of fast transients. It is recommended that the time step should be at
least one magnitude smaller than the smallest of the above.
8.1.2 Propagation Delays in Logic Circuits

The logic elements in PSIM are ideal, i.e. there is no propagation delay. If a logic circuit uses the propagation
delays for its operation, a function block in PSIM, called the Time Delay block, needs to be added to represent
the effect of the propagation delay.
To illustrate this, take a two-bit counter circuit as an example.
Q0 Q0 Q1
Q1
clock
clock
1V
1V
In the circuit on the left, the initial values of both Q0 and Q1 are assumed to be zero. At the clock rising edge, Q0
will change to 1. Without delay, the position of Q1, which should remain at 0, will toggle to 1 at the same time.
To prevent this, a time delay element with the delay period of one time step needs to be inserted between Q0 and
the input (J) of the second flip-flop.
8.1.3 Interface Between Power and Control Circuits

In PSIM, power circuits are represented in the discrete circuit form, and control circuits are represented in
function block diagram. Power circuit components, such as RLC branches, switches, transformers, mutual
inductors, current sources, floating voltage sources, and all types of controlled sources are not allowed in the
control circuit. Similarly, control circuit components, such as logic gates, PI controllers, lookup tables, and
other function blocks, are not allowed in the power circuit.
If there is a direct connection between the power circuit and the input of a control circuit element, a voltage
sensor will be automatically inserted by the program. Similarly, if there is a direct connection between the
output of a control circuit element and the power circuit, a control-power interface block will be automatically
inserted. This is illustrated in the examples below.
Chapter 8: Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues 231

Comparator Comparator
Transfer Function Transfer Function
op. amp. op. amp.
It should be noted that, in PSIM, the power circuit and the control circuit are solved separately. There is one
time step delay between the power and the control circuit solutions.
8.1.4 FFT Analysis

When using FFT for the harmonic analysis, one should make sure that the following requirements are satisfied:
- The waveforms have reached the steady state;
- The length of the data selected for FFT should be the multiple integer of the fundamental period.
For a 60-Hz waveform, for example, the data length should be restricted to 16.67 msec. (or multiples of 16.67
msec.). Otherwise, the FFT results will be incorrect. The data is selected by clicking on X Axis in SIMVIEW,
de-selecting Auto-scale in Range, and specifying the starting time and the final time. The FFT analysis is only
performed on the data that are displayed on the screen.
Note that the FFT results are discrete. The FFT results are determined by the time interval between two
consecutive data points, t, and the data length Tlength. The data point interval t is equal to the simulation time
step multiplied by the print step. In the FFT results, the frequency incremental step will be 1/Tlength, and the
maximum frequency will be 1/(2*t).
For example, if you take the FFT of a 1-kHz square waveform with a data length of 1 ms and a data point
interval of 10 us, that is, Tlength = 1 ms, and t = 10 us, the frequency incremental step will be: f = 1/Tlength =
1 kHz. The maximum frequency will be: fmax = 1/(2*t) = 50 kHz.
8.2 Error/Warning Messages

The error and warning messages are listed in the following.
E-1 Input format errors occurred in the simulation.

It may be caused by one of the following:
Incorrect/Incomplete specifications
Wrong input for integers and character strings
Make sure that the PSIM library is not modified, and the PSIM simulator is up-to-date.
In the circuit file, character strings should be included between two apostrophes (like test). Also,
make sure an integer is specified for an integer variable. The specification of a real number (like 3.
instead of 3) for an integer will trigger the error message.
E-2 Error message: The node of an element is floating.

This can also be caused by a poor connection in PSIM. When drawing a wire between two nodes, make
sure that the wire is connected to the terminal of the element.
232 Chapter 8: Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues

W-1 Warning!!! The program failed to converge after 10 iterations when determining switch positions.
The computation continues with the following switch positions: ... ...
This warning occurs when the program fails to converge when determining switching positions. Since
the computation continues based on the switch positions at the end of the 10th iteration, results
could be inaccurate. One should be cautious when analyzing the results.
There are many factors that cause this problem. The following measures can be taken to isolate and
solve the problem:
- Check the circuit and make sure the circuit is correct.
- Check the switch gating signals.
- Connect small resistors/inductors in series with switches and voltage sources.
W-2 Warning!!! The program did not reach the steady state after 60 cycles when performing the ac
sweep.
This warning occurs when the program fails to reach the steady state after 60 cycles when performing
the ac sweep. The cause of the problem could be that the system is poorly damped at that particular
frequency or the signal amplitude is too small.
You may try the following to isolate and solve the problem:
- Run the time-domain simulation with the excitation source at that frequency and see if time-
domain waveforms are oscillatory.
- Increase the excitation voltage amplitude for larger signal level, or
- Reduce the time step for better accuracy and resolution.
2.1 Debugging
Some of the approaches in debugging a circuit is discussed in the following.
Symptom:
Simulation results show sudden changes (discontinuity) of inductor currents and capacitor voltages.
Solution:
This may be caused by the interruption of inductor current path and short-circuit of capacitor (or
capacitor-voltage source) loops. Check the switch gating signals. If necessary, include overlap or
dead time pulses to avoid open-circuit or shooting-through.
If an initial current is assigned to an inductor, initial switch positions should be set such that a path is
provided for the current flow. Otherwise, the inductor current will be forced to start from zero.
Symptom:
Simulation waveforms look incorrect or inaccurate, or the waveform resolution is poor.
Solution:
This may be caused by two reasons. One is the time step. Since PSIM uses the fixed time step during
the entire simulation, one should make sure that the time step is sufficiently small. As a rule of
thumb, the time step should be several tens times smaller than the switching period.
Another reason is the problem of waveform display. One should make sure that the print step is not too
big. To display all the data points, set the print step to 1.
Chapter 8: Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues 233

234 Chapter 8: Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues
Index
A counter
absolute value function block 158 pulse width 168
ac analysis 3, 215, 216, 217 up/down 168
air gap 69, 70, 71, 72 current transfer ratio 76
ammeter
ac 196 D
dc 196 data array 181, 205
axis setting 34, 134, 135, 137 data point
viewing 34, 134, 233
B default variable 13, 27
backup device
automatic 22 diode 121, 122
band energy 139 IGBT 123, 124, 125
band-stop filter 155 IGBT-Diode 124
batch run 20 MOSFET 57, 58, 127, 129
battery device database editor 3, 24, 120, 132
lithium-ion 145, 146 DIAC 48, 51
B-H curve 24, 45, 72 differentiator
Boltzmann constant 140 s-domain 152
z-domain 173
C Digital Control Module 170
C block 207, 208, 209 diode 49
simplified 208 loss calculation 122
cable 44 zener 51
calculator 25, 37 Discharging Control 191
capacitor 19, 41, 43, 46, 70, 71, 88, 115, 116, 233 divider 156, 200
Charging Control 190, 191 DLL block
circular buffer 179, 180 external 23, 207, 208, 209, 210
code generation general 209, 210
automatic 1, 13, 18, 22, 209, 214 DSP Oscilloscope 24
command-line 20 dv/dt block 76
comparator 53, 55, 73, 160, 164, 183 Dynamic Torque Limit Control 187, 188
Control 200
controller
E
differentiator 152 Embedded Software Block 210
digital PI 173 encoder
modified PI 153 absolute 118
proportional-integral (PI) 152 incremental 119
single-pole 153 Excel 39
Type-2 153 exponential function block 157
Type-3 154
converter F
A/D 169 Fast Fourier Transform block 158
D/A 169 favorites 38
s2z 24 FFT
unit 25 analysis 232
convolution block 180 Field Weakening Control 101
core file
linear lossless 71 help 22, 27, 28, 29, 210
saturable 24, 69, 72 netlist 16, 18
CosiMate 1, 186 package 10
Index 235
parameter 6, 16, 213, 215 s-domain
filter external resettable 150
band-pass 155, 165 internal resettable 150
band-stop 155 z-domain
digital 174 external resettable 172
high-pass 155, 197 internal resettable 172
low-pass 152, 155, 174, 183, 197 interface
second-order 155 between power and control circuits 200
flag interface block 116
load 4 control-power 200, 231
master/slave 80, 83, 84, 86, 87, 90, 92, 95, 97, 99, 114, mechanical-electrical 78, 112, 115
115
save 4 J
flip-flop JMAG 1, 104
D 167 JMAG-RT 1, 108, 109
J-K 167
S-R 166 L
format label 9, 11, 28, 38
ASCII text 33 leakage flux 63, 69, 70, 88
binary 21, 33 LED 50
free run 4, 19 library
functional model 138, 141 adding new DLL element 28
adding new subcircuit element 27
G edit 11, 25, 26, 28, 29
gate library browser 8, 11, 183
AND 166 light intensity 139
logic 3, 166, 231 limiter
NAND 166 gradient (dv/dt) 160
NOR 166 lower 160
NOT 166 lower/upper 160
OR 166 range 160
XOR 166 upper 160
gating block 52, 54, 58, 59, 60 LOG 6, 35, 157
gear box 78, 112, 114, 115 LOG10 6, 35, 157, 216, 218
logic gate 166
H lookup table
hardware target 2-D 205
PE-Pro/F28335 5 loss calculation 120, 121
TI F28335 5 diode 123
HEV 1, 186 IGBT 125, 127, 131
HEV Design Suite 186 MOSFET 129
HEV generator 12
HEV traction motor 12 M
hybrid electric vehicle 1 machine
brushless dc 85, 87, 120
I dc 84, 85
image induction 77, 80, 82, 116
secondary 26 nonlinear induction 80
Image Editor 11, 29 nonlinear permanent magnet synchronous 94
inductor 28, 41, 106, 233 nonlinear switched reluctance 99
coupled 46, 65 permanent magnet synchronous 92, 94
saturable 45 squirrel-cage induction 80, 81, 82
initial value 47, 48, 149, 150, 151, 213 switched reluctance 97
integrator synchronous (external excitation) 89
236 Index
wound-rotor induction 80, 82, 83 enter 21
MagCoupler 105 PE-Pro/F28335 5
MagCoupler block 104, 105, 106, 107 PHEV 12
MagCoupler Module 104, 107, 108, 112 physical model 140
MagCoupler-DL block 104 pitch angle 144
MagCoupler-RT Module 108, 112 port
magnetic elements 24, 69, 72 bi-directional 13
math function block 204, 205 input signal 13, 158
Matlab/Simulink 1, 18, 24, 182, 183, 184 output signal 13
maximum power 138 subcircuit 14, 15
maximum/minimum function block 159 power coefficient 144, 145
Maximum-Torque-Per-Ampere Control 100 power function block 157
mechanical coupling block 112, 115 print step 4, 232, 233
mechanical load probe 196
constant-power 112 ac sweep 217
constant-speed 113 ac sweep (loop) 216
constant-torque 112 current 12, 18, 106, 107, 118, 196
externally-controlled 114 voltage 18, 196
general-type 113 propagation delay 163, 231
mechanical load model 1, 77, 112, 116 proportional-integral controller 152
memory read block 179, 180 Pulse 168
message PWM
error 22, 208, 232 space vector 165
warning 2, 18, 22, 216, 232
meter Q
3-phase VAR 198 quantization block 1, 177
VA-power factor 196
VAR 196, 198 R
monostable 168 reference direction
Motor Drive Module 1, 77, 112 of mechanical system 78, 79, 85, 112, 115, 117, 118
multiplexer 163 Regeneration Control 192
multiplier 3, 156 relay 77
multi-rate sampling system 182 renewable energy 145
resistor 6, 13, 24, 25, 41, 45, 70, 71, 72, 196, 200, 213,
N 219, 228, 233
node resolver 118, 119, 120
link 182, 183 rheostat 45
SLINK 18, 183 root-mean-square function block 157
nonlinear element 47, 48 round-off block 162
conductance-type 47, 48 rubber band 21
conductance-type with additional input 47 runtime graph 18, 21, 41, 44
resistance-type 47
resistance-type with additional input 47 S
sampling/hold block 161
O scope
operational amplifier current 4, 11, 18, 19, 198, 199, 200
ideal 73 voltage 4, 18, 198
non-ideal 74 sensor
optocoupler 75 current 196
hall effect 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 120
P position 77, 86, 87, 88, 89, 104, 108, 112, 118, 119,
Parameter Tool 24, 215 120
password 10 speed 116, 117, 118, 183
disable 21 torque 116, 117, 118
Index 237
voltage 196, 200, 231 T
shunt regulator 75 THD block 164, 165
sign function block 6, 35, 158 Thermal Module 120, 122, 127
SimCoder 2, 13, 18, 22, 214 TI F28335 5
SimCoupler Module 3, 18, 24, 182, 183, 184 time 209, 221
simulation control 4, 17, 19 idle 22
solar cell 139 print 4
source 221 total 4, 17, 20
constant 221 time delay block 162, 163, 176, 231
current-controlled current 227 time step 4, 5, 17, 18, 20, 76, 104, 105, 184, 209, 231
current-controlled voltage 106, 227, 228 tip speed ratio 144, 145
dc 52, 53, 222 TL431 75
math function 227 toolbar 8, 11, 21, 23, 37
nonlinear voltage-controlled 229 Torque Control 186
piecewise linear 221 transconductance 57, 128, 129, 131
random 226 transfer function block
sawtooth 224 s-domain 149
sinusoidal 222, 223 z-domain 171
square wave 162 transformation 100, 186, 201
square-wave 223 abc-alpha/beta 202
step 225 abc-dqo 100, 101, 201
triangular 224 alpha/beta-dq 203
voltage-controlled current 106, 227 Cartesian-Polar 204
voltage-controlled voltage 106, 227 transformer 3, 63
Space 165 ideal 63
square waveform block 161 saturation 68
square-root function block 157 single-phase 64
stack 181 three-phase 65
subcircuit 10, 12, 13, 15, 17 transistor
connecting 15 BJT (npn) 48, 49, 53
creating BJT (pnp) 48, 49
in the main circuit 14 GTO 48, 56
in the subcircuit 14 IGBT 48
image 16 MOSFET (n-channel) 48, 49
summer 156 MOSFET (p-channel) 48, 49, 54
sweep trapezoidal waveform block 161
ac 215, 216, 218, 233 trigonometric function 158
parameter 219
switch U
bi-directional 48, 56, 193 unit delay block 163, 176
DIAC 48, 51
linear 49, 57, 58 V
self-commutated 48, 53, 54, 55
variable
thyristor 48, 52, 193
default 13, 16, 27
transistor 48, 124, 125, 128, 129, 130
passing 15
TRIAC 48, 52
runtime 11, 19
switch controller 3, 52, 58, 193
voltmeter
alpha 52, 60, 62, 63, 193
ac 196
on-off 53, 55, 193
dc 196
PWM lookup table 63, 194
switch module W
single-phase 60
wattmeter 196, 197, 198
three-phase 61
3-phase 198
wind turbine 143, 144
238 Index
wire 9, 11, 14, 22, 232
Z
zero-order hold 1, 161, 162, 170, 182, 209
Index 239

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Users Guide

Copyright 2001-2015 Powersim Inc.

2 Circuit Schematic Design

3 Waveform Processing in SimView

4 Power Circuit Components

5 Control Circuit Components

8 Error/Warning Messages and Other Simulation Issues

Chapter 1: General Information 1

PSIM Schematic Circuit Schematic Editor (input: *.psimsch)

PSIM Simulator PSIM Simulator (output: *.smv or *.txt)

SIMVIEW Waveform Processor (input: *.smv or *.txt)

Chapter 1: PSIM circuit structure, software/hardware requirement, and parameter specification

2 Chapter 1: General Information

1.3 Software/Hardware Requirement

1.4 Installing the Program

PSIM.exe PSIM circuit schematic editor

File extensions used in PSIM are:

*.psimsch PSIM schematic file

Chapter 1: General Information 3

1.6 Simulation Control

There are three tabs in the Simulation Control dialog:

Time Step Simulation time step, in sec.

4 Chapter 1: General Information

Hardware Target The hardware target can be one of the following:

1.7 Component Parameter Specification and Format

Chapter 1: General Information 5

6 Chapter 1: General Information

2.1 PSIM Environment

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 7

2.2 Creating a Circuit

8 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

Library Browser Element Toolbar

2.3 File Menu

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 9

2.4 Edit Menu

10 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

2.5 View Menu

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 11

2.6 Design Suites Menu

2.7 Subcircuit Menu

12 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 13

File: chop.sch File: chop_sub.sch

2.7.1 Creating Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit

2.7.2 Creating Subcircuit - Inside the Subcircuit

Subcircuit port assignments

14 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

2.7.3 Connecting Subcircuit - In the Main Circuit

2.7.4 Other Features of the Subcircuit

Inside the subcircuit:

2.7.4.1 Passing Variables from the Main Circuit to Subcircuit

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 15

2.7.4.2 Customizing the Subcircuit Image

16 Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design

2.7.4.3 Including Subcircuits in the PSIM Element List

2.8 Elements Menu

2.9 Running Simulation

2.9.1 Simulate Menu

Chapter 2: Circuit Schematic Design 17

To set up the simulation in the free-run mode:

PSIM Simulator PSIM Simulator (output: .smv or .txt)

SIMVIEW Waveform Processor (input: .smv or .txt)

Expression f(v) 1e-14(EXP(40v)-1)