Keithley Generators

5 models with full specifications in Generators.

Keithley offers a specialized selection of signal sources, function generators, and pulse generators designed for exact test and measurement needs. This range spans from standard arbitrary function generators to high-speed pulse and pattern generators, alongside specialized sourcing instruments. Engineers use these devices for applications ranging from high-speed digital timing to audio band characterization and precision DC current/voltage sourcing. Selecting the right Keithley generator depends on the required frequency range, channel count, and specific wave-shaping or source-measure requirements.

Arbitrary Frequency Range
1 µHz to 50 MHz
Pulse Frequency Range
1 mHz to 165 MHz
Max Sampling Rate
125 MSa/s
Specialized Formats
Pulse, Pattern, Function, Audio, and SMU

All models

ModelTypeInterfacesOperating TemperatureWarm-up Time
2016FunctionGPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-2320 °C to 50 °C1 hour to rated specs
2636BArbitraryGPIB (IEEE-488.2), USB 2.0 (Host and Device), LAN (LXI Core 2011), RS-2320 to 502 hours to rated accuracies
3402-FPatternGPIB (IEEE-488.2), USB 2.0 (Device)0 °C to 50 °C30 minutes
3390FunctionUSB (Type B), LAN (LXI Class C), GPIB0 to 50 °C1 hour
3401-FPatternGPIB, USB0 °C to 50 °C30 minutes

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Arbitrary Waveform and Function Generators

For general-purpose analog sourcing, the Keithley 3390 provides arbitrary waveform and standard function generation. This instrument operates with a sine frequency range of 1 µHz to 50 MHz and features 14-bit vertical resolution with a 125 MSa/s sampling rate. It supports a 256k-point non-volatile arbitrary waveform memory capable of storing up to four custom waveforms. Standard built-in output shapes include sine, square, ramp, triangle, pulse, noise, and DC. The unit is built in a compact 2U half-rack frame and provides USB, LAN (LXI Class C), and GPIB interfaces.

High-Speed Pulse and Pattern Generation

When precise timing control and high-speed digital patterns are required, the Series 3400 generators provide performance up to 165 MHz. The Keithley 3401-F is a single-channel instrument offering flexible control over parameters such as pulse width (3 ns to 999.9 s) and period (6.06 ns to 1000 s), with a fixed transition rise time of < 1.5 ns. For multi-channel setups, the Keithley 3402-F provides two channels, fixed transition times of < 1.6 ns, and pattern generation capabilities up to 165 Mbit/s. Both units support GPIB and USB interfaces for automated test environments.

Specialized Sources and Co-integrated Instruments

Keithley also integrates signal generation capabilities directly into specialized analyzer and measurement systems. For acoustic and audio-band testing, the Keithley 2016 combines a high-performance 6.5-digit digital multimeter with a built-in 20Hz to 20kHz low-distortion audio generator, allowing simultaneous THD, THD+Noise, and SINAD measurements. For applications requiring precise DC sourcing alongside measurement, the Keithley 2636B SMU operates as a dual-channel precision source and meter, outputting up to 200 V or up to 1.5 A DC (10 A pulsed) with a low-current measurement resolution of 0.1 fA.

Popular models

Frequently asked questions

What is the frequency limit for pulse width adjustments on the 3400 series?
The Keithley 3401-F and 3402-F pulse generators operate at frequencies up to 165 MHz. On the single-channel Keithley 3401-F, the pulse width is adjustable from 3 ns up to 999.9 s.
Can the Keithley 3390 store custom arbitrary waveforms?
Yes. The Keithley 3390 features a 256k-point arbitrary waveform memory and non-volatile storage space for up to four custom waveforms of up to 256k points each.