The Keithley 2461 Datasheet is more than just a document; it’s your key to understanding and effectively utilizing the capabilities of the Keithley 2461 High Current SourceMeter. This article breaks down the essential information contained within the datasheet, explaining its significance and how it can help you achieve accurate and reliable measurements in your applications.
Deciphering the Keithley 2461 Datasheet A Comprehensive Overview
The Keithley 2461 Datasheet serves as the primary reference document for understanding the technical specifications, performance characteristics, and operational parameters of the Keithley 2461 SourceMeter. It provides detailed information about the instrument’s capabilities, including its voltage and current sourcing ranges, measurement accuracy, programming options, and safety features. Think of it as the instruction manual, blueprint, and troubleshooting guide all rolled into one. Mastering the information within the datasheet is crucial for maximizing the instrument’s performance and ensuring the validity of your experimental results.
Specifically, the datasheet outlines key parameters that dictate how the Keithley 2461 can be used effectively. This includes understanding its compliance voltage, which is the maximum voltage the instrument will output when sourcing current, as well as its current sourcing/sinking capabilities. Consider these elements:
- Voltage Ranges: The datasheet specifies the available voltage ranges for both sourcing and measurement.
- Current Ranges: Similarly, it details the current ranges, crucial for applications demanding precise current control.
- Accuracy Specifications: This section outlines the accuracy of both voltage and current sourcing and measurement, allowing for error analysis and informed decision-making.
Furthermore, the Keithley 2461 Datasheet contains information on the instrument’s communication interfaces (e.g., GPIB, USB, Ethernet), allowing for seamless integration into automated test systems. It also provides details on the instrument’s safety features, such as over-voltage and over-current protection, ensuring the safety of both the instrument and the user. Properly understanding these features is key for reliable operation in a variety of testing situations. To add to this, consider the example of using the 2461 in a solar panel I-V curve tracing application. If you are planning on sourcing current into the solar panel, knowing the max current ranges on the Keithley 2461 is critical. See below:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Source Current | 7 Amps |
| Max Sink Current | -7 Amps |
To gain the deepest understanding of the Keithley 2461’s capabilities and ensure you are leveraging its full potential, it’s essential to consult the official Keithley 2461 datasheet provided by the manufacturer. This document contains comprehensive specifications and detailed information necessary for optimal instrument operation.