The Keithley 2420-C is a single-channel DC parametric SourceMeter instrument combining a precision DC power source with a 6½-digit multimeter in one compact, half-rack unit. It sources and measures voltage and current simultaneously across four quadrants, functioning as a voltage source, current source, voltage meter, current meter, and ohmmeter. Maximum output is 60W at ±60V and ±3A, with floating output capability up to ±250V DC from chassis ground.
Technical Specifications
Sourcing
• Voltage range: −60V to +60V (up to 63V)
• Current range: −3A to +3A (up to 3.15A)
• Maximum output power: 66W
• Voltage slew rate: 0.14V/µs (60V range, 100mA compliance) or 0.08V/µs (20V range, 100mA compliance)
• Overshoot: <0.1% typical into resistive loads
• Output modes: Fixed DC, Memory List (100 points max), Stair (linear and log)
• Programmable compliance: Bipolar limits, minimum 0.1% of range
• Source/sink ratings: 21V @ 3.15A, 63V @ 1.05A
Measurement
• Voltage range: −60V to +60V (up to 63.3V)
• Current range: −3A to +3A (up to 3.165A)
• Resolution: 10pA/100pA, 10nW/100nW; 6½-digit display
• Reading speed: 1700 readings/second at 4½ digits via GPIB
• Accuracy: 0.012% basic
• Temperature coefficient: (0.15 × accuracy specification)/°C (0°–18°C and 28°–50°C)
• Warm-up time: 1 hour to rated accuracy
• Remote sensing: 2-, 4-, and 6-wire modes
• 6-wire ohms measurement with active guard
• Overrange: 105% of range
General
• Command processing: 7ms (Autorange Off), 10ms (Autorange On)
• Four-quadrant operation (source and sink)
– Key Features
• Five instruments integrated in one unit
• Low-noise, precision sourcing with readback
• Floating output to ±250V DC from chassis ground
• Multiple remote sensing configurations for accurate measurements
• Minimal test station setup complexity and cost
– Typical Applications
Parametric characterization of semiconductors, diodes, and small-signal devices requiring simultaneous sourcing and measurement with high precision and four-quadrant capability.
– Compatibility & Integration
GPIB interface for remote operation and data acquisition.
