The Agilent/Keysight B2981B is a precision Source/Measure Unit (SMU) designed for low-current and low-voltage characterization of sensitive devices and materials. It combines sourcing and measurement functions in a single instrument, delivering femtoampere resolution and microvolt sensitivity across a wide dynamic range. The B2981B minimizes noise and interference, critical for research, development, and quality control environments where measurement integrity is paramount.
Technical Specifications
Sourcing Performance
• Voltage source range: 1 µV to 210 V
• Current source range: 10 fA to 100 mA
• Voltage resolution: 1 µV
• Current resolution: 10 fA
Measurement Performance
• Voltage measurement range: −210 V to +210 V
• Current measurement range: 10 fA to 100 mA
• Voltage measurement resolution: 1 µV
• Current measurement resolution: 10 fA
• Minimum step: 10 fA (current) or 1 µV (voltage)
– Key Features
Advanced Measurement Capabilities
• Configurable sweep functions: linear and logarithmic modes
• Sweep points: up to 10,001 per sweep with programmable step delay
• Pulse generation for transient analysis
• On-board data logging for trend capture
• Digital filtering and averaging to enhance signal-to-noise ratio
• External trigger input for test equipment synchronization
User Interface
• Color graphical LCD with softkey and rotary knob navigation
• GPIB, LAN (Ethernet), and USB connectivity for automated test systems and remote control
– Typical Applications
The B2981B serves semiconductor characterization, materials research, device validation, and quality assurance testing where ultra-low-current sourcing and measurement are essential.
– Compatibility & Integration
Remote operation via GPIB, Ethernet, and USB enables integration into automated test environments and network-based measurement systems.


















