Advanced Energy introduced its new Ascent MS multi-output power supply system. Designed to enable the lowest system and infrastructure costs in the industry for solar photovoltaic (PV) plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) systems.

The Ascent MS supports up to five independent chambers of passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) PECVD processes in a single unit, optimizing power delivery and simplifying the deposition system design.

The power system’s quick-connect power outputs, a single point of control and minimized need for water and input power connections make for an optimized coater infrastructure.

This enables faster coater installation, higher manufacturing line reliability, and lower cost per coater. By supporting multiple tubes, the Ascent MS allows solar PV equipment manufacturers to develop more cost-effective systems that require less electrical and mechanical infrastructure than existing solutions.

“The manufacturing of PERC solar cells is an exceptionally competitive market. Our Ascent MS takes the economics of power delivery to a new level by delivering a system-level solution designed specifically for today’s market needs.”

Dave McAninch, director of strategic marketing, Advanced Energy.

Features of the Ascent MS include:

• Up to five outputs per power system
• 15kW, 20kW, 30kW models to meet the evolution in PERC technology and manufacturing
• Single point of communication, water, I/O and AC power input for all five power outputs
• Independent ON/OFF times, arc parameters and setpoints for each output
• Modular power connectors for rapid installation