Advantest R6144 Programmable DC Voltage/Current Source (Calibration Source) Calibration and Maintenance

Output noise is a key indicator for calibrating sources. The noise performance of R6144 in the 1 mA, 10 mA, and 100 mA ranges under a 1 k Ω load resistance is as follows: the 10 mA range is 5 μ Vp-p in the range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz, and 10 μ Vp-p in the range of 20 Hz to 20 MHz; The 100 mA range corresponds to 15 μ Vp-p and 30 μ Vp-p; The 1 V range is 80 μ Vp-p and 150 μ Vp-p, as well as 3 mVp-p; The 10 V range is 200 μ Vp-p and 500 μ Vp-p; The 30 V range is 400 μ Vp-p and 1 mVp-p; The 1 mA range is 30 nA/p-p and 150 nA/p-p; The 10 mA range includes 300 nA/p-p and 400 nA/p-p, as well as 6 μ A/p-p; The 100 mA range is 3 μ A/p-p and 4 μ A/p-p. The low noise characteristics make it suitable for high-sensitivity measurements.

In terms of establishment time, when the limiter is set to maximum and the output changes from zero to full range, the maximum time for all ranges to reach the expected value ± 0.1% at maximum load resistance is 50 ms; For the 1 V, 10 V, and 30 V ranges, the maximum setup time is also 50 ms under a 30 μ F capacitor load; Under a 100 μ F capacitor load, the maximum setup time is 60 ms. Overshoot/undershoot is within the indicator range. These features help improve the throughput of automated testing.

Interface, programming, and memory functionality

R6144 comes standard with GPIB and BCD parallel interfaces, making it easy to connect with personal computers, sequencers, or general-purpose I/O interfaces. The GPIB interface supports standard commands, making it easy to build automated testing systems. The BCD parallel interface is suitable for connecting with traditional devices or PLCs. The built-in 160 step memory allows users to store and call multiple output settings, supports full digital continuous variable scanning function, and can automatically execute complex voltage/current scanning sequences. In terms of program compatibility, programs written for TR6142 can run directly on R6144 without modification, greatly reducing upgrade costs.

During programming, users can set voltage/current values, range, limiting, polarity, etc. through the front panel buttons or remote interface. The display of R6144 adopts high brightness LED, which can clearly display the set value and output status. The front panel also includes control areas such as Polarity, OPERATE, GP-IB, as well as output terminals. The rear panel provides GPIB connectors, BCD interfaces, power inputs, etc.

Typical application scenarios

R6144 is suitable for various precision measurement and calibration scenarios. Firstly, the evaluation of precision circuits and components, such as operational amplifiers ADC/DAC、 Sensor signal conditioning circuits require high-precision and low-noise excitation sources. Secondly, for the calibration of temperature controllers, R6144 can output precise millivolt level signals to simulate the output of thermocouples or RTDs, thereby calibrating the temperature controller. Thirdly, the automated testing system, R6144's GPIB interface and 160 step memory enable it to be integrated into production line testing equipment, achieving fast and repeatable testing. Fourth, precision measurement in scientific research laboratories, such as semiconductor device characteristic analysis, material research, etc. Fifth, as a standard source for calibrating other voltage/current meters or data acquisition systems.

Engineering process for replacing discontinued modules

When the original calibration source is discontinued or malfunctioning, R6144 can be used as an alternative, especially if the original equipment is TR6142 or other similar models. The suggested replacement process is as follows:

Record the original device parameters: voltage/current range, resolution, accuracy, noise, setup time, interface type, memory steps, size, and power requirements.

Match application requirements: Confirm whether the output range, resolution, accuracy, and noise of R6144 meet the requirements of the tested device. For example, if a 32 V output is required, the 30 V range of R6144 can cover it; If a current of 160 mA is required, the 100 mA range may not be sufficient, and it is necessary to confirm if there are higher current models available.

Confirm interface compatibility: Does the original system use GPIB or BCD parallel interface? R6144 supports both, but requires the correct address and communication parameters to be configured.

Check program compatibility: If the original device is TR6142, R6144 can directly run the program written for it without modification. Otherwise, it is necessary to rewrite the test sequence.

Confirm power supply and mechanical dimensions: R6144 offers multiple power options (90-110 V, 103-132 V, 198-242 V, 207-250 V), depending on the on-site power supply selection. The size is approximately 240 × 88 × 350 mm and the weight is about 4 kg. The rack space needs to be confirmed.

Power on test: First, do not connect the load, check the output zero point and full range, then connect the load to check the setup time and noise. Verify accuracy using a high-precision multimeter.

Calibration and verification: It is recommended to calibrate before use or confirm that the equipment is within the calibration validity period.