SpikeSafe Performance Series Precision Pulsed Current Sources

SpikeSafe™ Performance Series Precision Pulsed Current Sources also known as pulsers, supply precise static and dynamic current output modes including DC and continuous and single pulse. Fast pulse widths reduce junction temperatures for VCSEL, laser diode, and other semiconductor devices. With sustained output power and no duty cycle limitations, Performance Series Current Sources support a broad range of applications.

Precision Pulsed SMU

Taking the Performance Series Current Source Series to the next level, Vektrex SMU integrates a low-noise digitizer for accurate measurement.  Learn more about the Pulsed Source Measure Unit and High Current Pulsed Source Measure Unit.

Precision Timing

These high-performance current sources feature precise hardware-based triggering that reduces timing uncertainty improving measurement repeatability to a remarkable 0.05%. Fast current rise times and on-the-fly pulse width correction allow the source to produce near-perfect square current pulses that are ideal for LM-85’s high-accuracy Continuous Pulse mode measurements.

Performance Series Current Sources are available in single and multichannel models supporting compliance voltages to 400V and source currents to 60A. Use the following table to learn more about the source / SMU at the maximum current needed for your application.

Low CurrentMid CurrentMid-High CurrentHigh Current
500mA4A10A32A
2A5A16A40A
3A8A20A60A

💡 Brochure
💡 Specifications
💡 Single Channel Selector Guide
💡 Multi-Channel Selector Guide

💡 Control Panel Software Application
💡 SpecWin Pro Software Application
💡 Junction Temperature Measurement

Continuous Power Conversion

SpikeSafe Current Sources utilize highly efficient Continuous Power Conversion (CPC). CPC allows SpikeSafe current sources to provide sustained DC, single pulse or continuous pulse current without the duty cycle or pulse width limitations found in other current sources.

Sustained power is the foundation for improved LED light measurements. Learn more about SpikeSafe Continuous Power Conversion and improved LED light measurements by watching our webinar series.

Adjustable Load Tuning

Adjustable load tuning allows the SpikeSafe to compensate for load conditions, cable impedance, and length. The resulting fast, clean pulses have little overshoot – even when the current output is routed through switching/probing systems.

Output Wiring Simplifies Integration

Unlike other pulsed sources that require coaxial or flat ribbon output cables, the SpikeSafe 400 utilizes twisted pair output wiring. For high current models, drive current is split into multiple output pairs, assuring the maximum current per conductor is below 7.5A. This design feature allows the current output to be routed through commonly used interconnect devices such as printed circuit card edge connectors and switching systems.

Performance Series Current Source with SpecWin Pro shown
Performance Series Current Source with SpecWin Pro shown

Options

Modulated Current – Adds the capability to define and execute arbitrary DC waveforms. 1ms current step resolution. Steps defined as a percentage of setpoint current. Useful to simulate rectifier ripple, camera flash, etc.

Bias Current – Adds a low current bias module to provide thermal analysis measurement current. Useful for Tj, RΘ testing and thermal modelling.

Bias Current Module

The bias current option enables specialty software like the Tj Utility Application. It’s also necessary to perform critical measurements of RΘ, K-factor, and junction temperature (Tj).

Applications

  • LED/laser light measurement
  • Device characterization
  • Quantum efficiency testing
  • Wafer probing
  • Junction temperature (Tj) measurement
  • Thermal modeling
  • Production binning
  • High power pulse withstand testing