20A Precision Pulsed Source – Performance Series

The SpikeSafe™ 20A Performance Series Current Source is part of the SpikeSafe Performance Series Precision Pulsed Current Source Family. Output pulses have nanosecond rise and fall times – key to precise and repeatable LED, LIDAR, VCSEL photometric and electrical measurements. This current source supplies precision DC, continuous pulse, and single pulse current with excellent pulse fidelity.  A precision hardware-controlled timing system supports pulse widths from 1µs to 15000s. Programmable load tuning alters the SpikeSafe current regulator response to compensate for load conditions, cable impedance, and length. Hardware triggering ensures measurement repeatability. Continuous power conversion technology means no duty cycle or pulse width limitations. Multiple output conductor pairs keep maximum current/conductor below 5A, allowing the current output to be routed through standard switching and interconnect devices.

Vektrex also offers a source measure unit for photonic and other applications. Learn more about Vektrex SMU.

An optional bias current module supports junction temperature (Tj), thermal resistance (RΘ), and dynamic thermal impedance measurements.

Devices being tested are protected with a gentle turn-on during ramp-up and with SpikeSafe load protection during operation. SpikeSafe load protection continuously monitors voltage and current patterns and instantly shuts down the drive current when device anomalies are detected.

The notable specifications for this current source are as follows: the low range output current accuracy is 0.04%+700µA. The high range output current accuracy is 0.08%+4mA. The pulse width range is 1µs-15000s and the pulse width accuracy is 1.3µs. The pulse rise/fall time is 350ns-4.5ns and the typical pulse width jitter is 30ns. 

Vektrex-developed Control Panel Software Application is available with this current source.


20A Source Pulse Shapes

Precision pulsing is key to best practices measurements. The 20A Precision Pulsed Current Source offers programmable pulse width flexibility. It is capable of long pulse widths (ms to seconds) and short pulse widths (100us pulse widths and faster). With the pulse source, minimum 10us pulse widths are available with upgrades for fast precision pulsing (1us pulse widths). Pulse width accuracy is 1.3us with nanosecond pulse rise and fall times. Ramp time is adjustable. Fast transient response saves devices.

Vektrex Precision Pulsed Current Source 20A 44.7V current pulse 100uS pulse width 1680ns rise time
Vektrex Precision Pulsed Current Source 20A 44.7V current pulse 100uS pulse width 1680ns rise time

Learn more about our Performance Series Precision Pulsed Current Sources here and check out Vektrex SMU.