The Keysight/Agilent/HP 3488A is a 5-slot mainframe switch/control unit that serves as the backbone for automated test and measurement systems requiring flexible signal routing and device control. It accommodates up to five plug-in modules, enabling users to configure switching and control functions tailored to specific applications. GPIB programmability allows remote operation and integration into larger test systems, while onboard storage supports up to 40 configurations for rapid setup recall. The mainframe includes a built-in self-test capability and supports multiple relay closure modes including break-before-make operation.
Technical Specifications
-# Mainframe
• Chassis: 5-slot plug-in module configuration
• Programmability: GPIB/HP-IB
• Configuration Storage: 40 stored/recalled setups
• Switching Modes: Multiple relay closures, break-before-make
• Connectors: Removable screw terminal
• Self-Test: Built-in operational verification
-# Typical Module Specifications
10-Channel Relay Multiplexer (44470A/D)
• 10 channels, 2-wire (2PST relays per channel)
• Voltage: 250 V DC or AC RMS (terminal-to-terminal or terminal-to-chassis)
• Current: 1 A DC/AC RMS per channel or 2 A DC/AC RMS per channel
• Power: 60 W DC, 125 VA AC or 60 W DC, 500 VA AC (per channel/module)
• Transient Overvoltage: 1400 V peak
• Thermal Offset: < 3 µV differential/single-ended
• Closed Channel Resistance: 10¹¹ Ω @ 40°C, 60% RH
• DC Isolation (channel-to-channel, closed): > 10⁹ Ω @ 40°C, 95% RH
• Hi-Lo Capacitance: < 27 pF
• Scan Rate: Up to 43 channels/sec
10-Channel General Purpose Relay (44471A/D)
• 10 independent SPST (Form A) relays
• Voltage: 250 V DC or AC RMS (terminal-to-terminal or terminal-to-chassis)
• Current: 2 A DC/AC RMS per channel; 20 A DC/AC RMS per module
• Power: 60 W DC, 500 VA AC (per channel/module)
• Thermal Offset: < 3 µV per channel
• Closed Channel Resistance: < 2 Ω (end of relay life)
Dual 4-Channel VHF Switch (44472A)
• Two independent 4-channel bidirectional switch groups
– Key Features
• Modular architecture supports diverse mixing of switch and control functions
• Low thermal offset for precision signal measurement applications
• High DC isolation for channel separation and protection
• Screw terminal connectors for secure field wiring
• Multiple relay operation modes accommodate complex switching logic
– Typical Applications
• Multi-signal scanning and routing in automated production test
• Device control and external equipment switching via relay outputs
• Low-level analog signal multiplexing with minimal thermal noise
• High-voltage transient protection in industrial switching environments
– Compatibility & Integration
The 3488A integrates with any GPIB-equipped controller or test system. Module selection determines voltage, current, and frequency capabilities. Users may combine relay multiplexers, general-purpose relays, and RF switches within a single mainframe to address mixed-signal test requirements.
