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Yokogawa announced today, December 12, 2024, the release of the WT1500 precision power analyzer, a new instrument specifically engineered for the demanding measurement needs of electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, renewable energy inverters, and industrial motor drives. The analyzer combines wide bandwidth, high basic accuracy, and a unique dual-current shunt configuration that lets engineers measure both high-voltage DC and AC currents in a single device without sacrificing precision.
The WT1500 offers a voltage measurement range from 0.1 V to 1000 V (DC + AC peak) and current measurement up to 50 A (direct input) or 500 A with external shunts. Its basic accuracy of ±0.01% of reading ensures reliable results for efficiency calculations and harmonic analysis. The instrument covers a bandwidth of DC to 1 MHz, allowing it to capture fast-switching transients in modern SiC and GaN power devices.
A key differentiator is the dual-current input design: each measurement channel can accept two independent current signals (direct and shunt) simultaneously. This enables engineers to monitor the battery current and the inverter AC output current in one test setup, simplifying data synchronization and reducing wiring errors. The WT1500 also supports up to four input channels, making it suitable for three-phase plus neutral or multiphase motor analysis.
The new power analyzer is equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and intuitive menu navigation. It includes built-in harmonic analysis up to the 500th order, motor evaluation functions (torque, speed, mechanical power), and integrated data logging to USB or LAN. For automated test sequences, the WT1500 supports standard SCPI commands and can be controlled via Ethernet, GPIB, or RS-232.
According to Yokogawa, the WT1500 has already received certification from several leading EV manufacturers for use in their R&D labs. "The WT1500 eliminates the need for multiple instruments when testing EV drive systems," said Kenji Tanaka, product manager at Yokogawa Test & Measurement. "Its dual-current capability and high bandwidth make it a natural fit for the next generation of power electronics."
In addition to the hardware launch, Yokogawa will offer a free software patch that adds FFT analysis and real-time efficiency mapping for solar inverters, expected in Q1 2025. The company also plans to release a firmware upgrade later next year that enables compliance testing with IEC 62040-3 (UPS) and IEC 62000-3 (grid-connected inverters).
The WT1500 is available for order immediately through Yokogawa's global distribution network. Pricing starts at $12,500 for a two-channel base unit, with channel expansion and accessories sold separately. Yokogawa provides a standard three-year warranty and optional extended calibration plans.
Industry analysts view the launch as a strategic move to capture a growing market. "As EV and renewable energy systems push for higher efficiency, the need for precision measurement tools that can handle both high-voltage DC and modulated AC becomes critical," said Dr. Emily Ross, senior analyst at PowerTech Insights. "Yokogawa's dual-shunt approach is a practical solution that many labs will find valuable."
The WT1500 replaces the older WT1800 series, inheriting its rugged design while adding higher bandwidth, a larger touchscreen, and the dual-current architecture. Existing WT1800 users can upgrade to the WT1500 with a trade-in program running through June 2025.
For more information, including a full datasheet and application notes for EV inverter testing, visit Yokogawa's website or contact your local representative.
