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A

GREA TER

MEASURE

OF

CONFIDENCE

486

Picoammeter

487

Picoammeter/Voltage Source

486:

• 10fA sensitivity

• 180 readings per second

• IEEE-488 interface

487:

• Resistivity measurements

(<1

Ω to >1016Ω)

• ± 500V source

• 10fA sensitivity

• 180 readings per second

• IEEE-488 interface

486 Picoammeter

The Model 486 is a 51⁄2-digit autoranging picoammeter designed for low current applications where fast

reading rates must be made. It offers a speed of 180 readings per second.

The 486 is ideal for low-level DC current applications, such as:

• PMT current measurements

• mass spectrometer current measurements

• probe current measurements in electrochemistry

•plasma generated currents

• ion chamber currents

Operation is fast and convenient. Selectable analog and digital filters provide optimum wide-band per-

formance with minimum noise. Autoranging selects the most appropriate range within 100ms. The meas-

urement buffer holds up to 512 readings for fast data acquisition. Any reading within the buffer may be

displayed, or the entire buffer may be searched for the maximum and minimum values.

Other important features include REL, which allows measurements to be made relative to a selectable

baseline. ZERO CHECK and CORRECT functions correct for voltage offset errors using front panel or soft-

ware commands.

The IEEE-488 interface provides simple integration and convenient user interaction. Digital calibration can

be accomplished over the bus or completely from the front panel. The display features three selectable

intensities (bright, dim, and off) for use in light-sensitive environments.

487 Picoammeter/Voltage Source

The Model 487 is designed for measurement of low currents and very high resistances. This instrument

incorporates all the capabilities of the 486, and adds a programmable ±500V source. This combination of

picoammeter and voltage source provides a powerful high resistance meter and fast picoammeter in one

instrument.

The 487 makes current measurements from 10fA to 2mA. Two voltage source ranges are available: a 500V

range with 10mV resolution and a 50V range with 1mV resolution. A PRESET button allows the user to

toggle between two separate source values.

The 487 sources up to 500V, measures the current with 10fA sensitivity, and then instantly calculates the

resistance value, from 500m

Ω to 5 × 1016Ω. The unit displays either current or resistance. Reading inter-

vals from 10ms to 1000s can be programmed, simplifying tests that require a predetermined “soak” time.

Two displays, one for current readings and one for voltage sourcing, permit the voltage setting and the

measured current to be viewed throughout the measurement.

The Model 487 and the 6517A are the most effective test instruments for performing such tasks as resis-

tivity, I-V measurements, component leakage, and insulation resistance. A common test procedure, writ-

ten by the American Society of Testing and Materials, D257: D-C RESISTANCE OR CONDUCTANCE OF

INSULATING MATERIALS, is easily performed with the 487 or the 6517A.

Ordering Information

486

Picoammeter

487

Picoammeter/Voltage

Source

These products are available

with an Extended Warranty.

Accessories Supplied

237-ALG-2 Low Noise Triax

Cable, 3-Slot Triax to Alligator

Clips, 2m (6.6 ft)

Model 487 also comes with 236-

ILC-3 Interlock Cable, 3m (10 ft)