Summary of Tektronix 2601B-Pulse System Sourcemeter Eliminates Pulse Tuning
Tektronix introduced the 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter, integrating a high-speed current pulser with DC source and measurement capabilities. It utilizes PulseMeter technology to generate 10μsec pulses at 10A and 10V without manual tuning, minimizing device self-heating. The instrument features dual 1 MS/sec, 18-bit digitizers for simultaneous waveform acquisition and supports VCSEL testing for LIDAR applications. Version 2.3 of KickStart software is released to enable pulsing functions.
Parts used in the 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter:
- High-speed current pulser
- DC source and measurement functions
- PulseMeter technology
- Dual 1 MS/sec digitizers
- 18-bit digitizers
- Version 2.3 KickStart Instrument Control Software
Tektronix, Inc. today announced the new 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter® 10μs Pulser/SMU Instrument, integrating a high-speed current pulser with DC source and measurement functions in one instrument. The new system incorporates PulseMeter™ technology for sourcing current pulses as short as 10μsec at 10A and 10V without the need to manually tune the output to match device impedance up to 3μH. This is critical for minimizing device self-heating, which for optical devices, can result in erroneous measurements and the potential for damaging test equipment. The new 2601B-PULSE also includes all current and voltage source measure unit (SMU) ranges that are available in Keithley’s standard Model 2601B System SourceMeter® (40V, 3A DC, 10A Pulse). In addition, Tektronix is also releasing version 2.3 of Keithley’s Instrument Control Software “KickStart” to support the pulsing function of the 2601B-PULSE.
The 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter® affirms Tektronix’s commitment to the advancement of technology through leading test and measurement solutions,” says Chris Bohn, vice president and general manager at Keithley/Tektronix. “This new instrument will bring better testing capabilities for engineers, including those who rely on industry-first technology to take innovative strides in automotive applications, connected vehicles and autonomous driving.
Advancement in Testing with LIDAR in Mind
The 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter® was developed to serve the needs and complications of testing vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), which are mission-critical for automotive light detection and ranging (LIDAR) applications. The instrument is ideal for testing VCSELs and LEDs, semiconductor device characterization, fault power management testing, surge protection testing and beyond. Built-in dual 1 MS/sec,18-bit digitizers enhance the pulser’s measurement function, enabling users to acquire both pulse current and voltage waveforms simultaneously, without the need to use a separate instrument.
- What is the primary function of the new 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter?
It integrates a high-speed current pulser with DC source and measurement functions in one instrument. - How short can the current pulses be sourced using this instrument?
The instrument sources current pulses as short as 10 microseconds. - Does the 2601B-PULSE require manual tuning to match device impedance?
No, it does not require manual tuning to match device impedance up to 3 microhenries. - What specific automotive technology does this instrument help test?
It was developed to serve the needs of testing vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers for LIDAR applications. - Can users acquire pulse current and voltage waveforms simultaneously?
Yes, built-in dual digitizers enable users to acquire both waveforms simultaneously without a separate instrument. - What software version is required to support the pulsing function?
Version 2.3 of Keithley’s Instrument Control Software KickStart is required. - Why is minimizing device self-heating critical for optical devices?
Minimizing self-heating prevents erroneous measurements and potential damage to test equipment. - What are the maximum voltage and current ratings for the pulse function?
The instrument supports 10A and 10V for its pulse function.
