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Wayne Kerr Precision Impedance Analyzer

by November 09, 2006
Wayne Kerr 6540A Impedance Analyzer

Wayne Kerr 6540A Impedance Analyzer

The accuracy and versatility makes the precision analyzers the ideal choice for many different tasks and applications including passive component design, dielectric material characterisation and manufacturing test.

Engineers need to evaluate component characteristics at high frequencies with high levels of accuracy. The 6540A 120 MHz Precision Impedance Analyzer is therefore ideal for many demanding tasks, combining accuracy and ease of use at an affordable price. If a frequency range up to 120 MHz is not required then the 6530A or 6520A analyzers are available.

Measurement parameters

  • Capacitance (C)
  • Inductance (L)
  • Resistance (R)
  • Reactance (X)
  • Conductance (G)
  • Susceptance (B)
  • Dissipation Factor (D)
  • Quality Factor (Q)
  • Impedance (Z)
  • Admittance (Y)
  • Phase Angle (Ø)

High measurement accuracy

Capacitance, inductance and impedance basic accuracy is an excellent ±0.05%. Dissipation factor accuracy is ±0.0005 and the quality factor accuracy is ±0.05%.

Graphical sweep of components

The 6500 series of Precision Impedance Analyzers are highly accurate high frequency component analyzers with a host of useful features.

Graphical sweep of two measured parameters is available and displayed on the clear, large, colour display. Swept parameters are frequency, drive level and DC bias.

Display formats available include series or parallel equivalent circuit.

For single frequency measurements a meter mode is available.

Variable drive and bias levels

AC drive levels up to 1 volt or 20 mA can be selected to evaluate components in realistic operating environments. Variable DC bias currents are also provided with current drives up to 100 mA.

External control

The GPIB interface is used to control the instrument and read back measured values for applications such as quality control or for archiving purposes.

An Ethernet interface similarly allows the instrument to be controlled and to send out data - allowing it to be integrated into many test environments.

Wide range of interfaces

An external monitor or projector may be connected to the instrument. The ability to provide a large screen display is invaluable in production environments or for teaching and training.

Instrument control from both a keyboard and mouse is available. Any keyboard or mouse, with either PS/2 or USB interfaces, can be simply connected to provide an alternative method of instrument control and operation.

Data storage and retrieval

All measurement and setup data can be stored using the Ethernet interface or a USB flash memory.

Setup data

Up to 20 instrument setups may be stored locally for each mode.

Bin handling

Isolated (24 V) and non-isolated (5 V) signals are available through a 25-way D-type connector.

Printer outputs

Hard copy printouts can be obtained in a number of ways including direct to an HP-PCL compatible graphics printer or Epson compatible text/ticket printer. A networked HP-PCL compatible printer may also be used via Ethernet connection.

Component connections

Four front panel BNC connectors permit three or four terminal connections with the screens at ground potential.

The 1J1101 component fixture, supplied with all models, ensure optimum performance when measuring a wide range of components

To provide more connection options a comprehensive range of optional accessories is available.

Protection against charged capacitors

High precision measuring instruments can be damaged by charged capacitors which can cause costly repairs and unacceptable downtime. All the models in the range incorporate protection against charged capacitors.

Comprehensive and precise component tests at higher frequencies

The 6500 series capabilities are best summarised by “Comprehensive and precise component tests at higher frequencies”. The instruments are the perfect solution for those who have demanding component measurement needs.

 

About the author:
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Clint Deboer was terminated from Audioholics for misconduct on April 4th, 2014. He no longer represents Audioholics in any fashion.

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