The HP/Agilent 54300A is a programmable dual 8:1 probe multiplexer that expands the input channel capacity of instrumentation systems by routing multiple probe signals to single or cascaded instrument inputs. Each multiplexer accommodates up to 16 input pods organized into two groups of eight, with dual front-panel BNC outputs rated at 50-ohm impedance. The unit combines manual front-panel control with full IEEE-488 bus programmability, storing up to 100 lists containing up to 99 switching steps each for a total memory capacity of 3761 steps. Internal nonvolatile memory preserves switch closure sequences across power cycles. Switching operations execute in less than 15 ms and can be triggered via front panel, IEEE-488 commands, or TTL-compatible rear-panel logic inputs. A rear-panel BNC connector with jumper-selectable polarity outputs a TTL pulse approximately 5 microseconds after switch settlement, enabling automated data logging. Cascading up to nine multiplexers two deep yields 128 total input channels, making the 54300A ideal for multi-point signal acquisition where manual probe repositioning is impractical.
Technical Specifications
• Input Configuration: Dual 8:1 multiplexer; supports up to 16 input pods (two groups of eight)
• Output Impedance: 50 ohms
• Switching Time: Less than 15 ms
• Nonvolatile Memory: Up to 100 lists; maximum 99 steps per list; 3761 total steps
• IEEE-488 Interface: Conforms to IEEE 488-1978; SHI, AHI, T6, TEO, L4, LEO, SRI, RLI, PPO, DC1, CO capabilities
• Power Supply: 100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC (±5% to −10%); 48 Hz to 66 Hz, single phase
• Power Dissipation: 110 W maximum (60 Hz, 120 VAC); 155 VA maximum consumption
• Fuses: 2.0 A @ 120 VAC (part 2110-0001); 1.0 A @ 220 VAC (part 2110-0002)
– Key Features
• Three independent control pathways: front-panel buttons, IEEE-488 commands, and TTL trigger input
• TTL pulse output signals switch closure completion with ~5 microsecond assertion window
• Jumper-selectable polarity on rear TTL output connector
• Cascadable architecture supporting up to 128 channels (nine units, two deep)
– Compatibility & Integration
The 54300A integrates with any 50-ohm instrumentation input. IEEE-488 connectivity enables integration into automated test systems and data acquisition frameworks.
