The Tektronix TM503 Power Module Mainframe is a three-compartment mainframe that houses and powers TM500 and TM5000 series plug-in modules. It supplies electronically regulated DC and AC voltages through a switching power supply, supporting up to three single-width modules in a compact, portable form factor. The unit operates from universal line voltage and includes forced-air cooling with thermal protection.
Technical Specifications
• Compartments: 3 (single-width modules)
• Power Supply: Switching DC power supply with electronic voltage regulation
• DC Outputs: +33.5 V / −33.5 V at 1 A max shared; +11.5 V at 3.6 A max shared with 17.5 VAC
• AC Outputs: 17.5 VAC shared with +11.5 VDC rail; 2× 25 VAC at 0.5 A each
• Maximum Power Dissipation: 120 W
• Nominal Current Rating: 1 A
• Line Voltage: 100/110/120/200/220/240 V ±10%
• Line Frequency: 48 Hz to 440 Hz
• Cooling: Forced-air with thermal cutouts protecting pass devices; interior temperature rise approximately 3°C/Watt at 6 W input and 2.5°C/Watt at 12 W input
• Module Power Classification: All bays low-power
– Key Features
• Universal line voltage input (100–240 V) with wide frequency range (48–440 Hz) enables global deployment
• Electronically regulated DC outputs maintain stable voltage across all rails
• Thermal protection and temperature-dependent cooling manage dissipation in confined spaces
• Compact dimensions (15.2 cm H × 22.1 cm W × 38.9 cm L; 4.3 kg) with carrying handle for portability
• Stand-alone or rack-mountable configuration
• Optional rear panel connectors (50-pin and BNC) for custom integration
– Compatibility & Integration
The TM503 directly supports TM500 and TM5000 series plug-in modules. Some TM5000 modules may have backward compatibility constraints with older mainframes. The chassis can serve as a mechanical platform for custom stand-alone TM5000 variants. GPIB interface openings exist but lack connectors and power good signaling for TM5000 plugins on standard TM503 units.
