The Keysight/Agilent/HP E8404A is a C-size, 13-slot VXI mainframe designed for high-power automated test applications in aerospace, defense, and automotive environments. It delivers 1000 W of usable power with intelligent thermal management, comprehensive diagnostics, and VMEbus/VXIbus compliance for seamless integration into complex test systems.
Technical Specifications
Power Delivery
• Usable power: 1000 W
• Plug-in power supply design for field replacement
• Dynamic and peak current capability for demanding loads
• Overvoltage, overcurrent, over-temperature, and short circuit protection
Thermal Management
• Air distribution system engineered for quiet, efficient cooling
• Optimized airflow path: rear panel intake through power supply and modules; side exhaust for stacking or rack-mount configurations
• Variable or Full Speed fan modes, selectable via front panel switch
• Variable Speed mode automatically adjusts fan speed based on mainframe temperature, ambient conditions, and module exhaust temperatures
• Dedicated power supply cooling circuit for independent thermal control
Monitoring & Diagnostics
• Full-color display with real-time temperature data throughout mainframe
• Power supply voltage and current monitoring
• Fan operation status and system health indicators
• History queue and strip chart/histogram data logging
• Data access via full-color display, VXIbus, or RS-232
• Front panel diagnostics connector for local or remote monitoring
• Remote on/standby control and access to +5V STANDBY, ACFAIL, and SYSRESET signals
• Front panel indicator lights for voltage, temperature, and fan status confirmation
• Backplane activity and SYSFAIL status indicators
– Key Features
• VMEbus compliance with GRANT and IACK signal support
• SCPI command interface for mainframe control
• Improved backplane design for enhanced reliability and maintenance access
• Dual cooling path architecture isolates power supply thermal management
– Interfaces & Integration
• VXIbus and RS-232 connectivity
• VMEbus architecture
• SCPI control commands
• Front panel diagnostics connector for remote system access
– Typical Applications
Aerospace and defense system testing, automotive ECU validation, high-power RF module characterization, and production burn-in operations requiring extended runtime and thermal stability.
