Keysight E3640 Series & E3648A DC Power Supplies
2 models with full specifications from Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP).
The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) E3640 Series - 30-80W and the companion dual-output Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) E3648A provide stable, programmable DC power for benchtop and automated test equipment (ATE) environments. Designed for low noise and high reliability, these instruments combine analog performance with digital control. Both GPIB and RS-232 interfaces are standard, allowing integration into automated test systems. This guide reviews the single-output and dual-output models within this power supply category to help system designers and laboratory engineers select the ideal configuration.
- Number of Outputs
- 1 or 2
- Total Power Range
- 30 W to 100 W
- Standard Interfaces
- GPIB, RS-232
- Form Factor
- Benchtop or Rackmount (Option 1CM / 1CN)
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Dimensions (W×H×D) | Display | EMC Compliance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E3640 Series - 30-80W | Agilent HP | 212.8 mm × 88.1 mm × 348.8 mm | 4-digit LED | IEC 61326-1 |
| E3648A | Agilent HP | 212.8 × 88.1 × 348.3 | Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) | CISPR-11, EN 55011, EN 50082-1 |
Core Architecture and Common Capabilities
The E3640 Series and the E3648A share a core design focused on clean power and precise control. They feature built-in GPIB (IEEE-488) and RS-232 serial interfaces as standard, ensuring remote programmability in diverse software environments. For system integration, optional rack mount kits (Option 1CM / 1CN) allow installation in standard test bays. Protection features are integrated across the family, with user-configurable Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Current Protection (OCP), and Over Temperature Protection (OTP) to safeguard sensitive devices under test.
Choosing Between Single and Dual-Output Models
The choice depends on channel count and power requirements:
- Single-Output Models: The core E3640 Series models provide a single isolated output, delivering a total power output ranging from 30 W to 80 W. These configurations use a 4-digit LED display and are fan-cooled, keeping weight between 4.7 kg and 4.9 kg.
- Dual-Output Models: The E3648A provides two isolated channels with up to 100 W of total power (50 W per output). It features a Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) and supports two operating ranges per channel (0 to 8 V / 0 to 5 A, or 0 to 20 V / 0 to 2.5 A). This dual-range configuration gives test engineers flexibility to switch between high-current/low-voltage and low-current/high-voltage applications without changing instruments.
Low-Noise Performance and Regulation
For precise component evaluation, the E3648A ensures tight regulation and low-noise output. Voltage load and line regulation are specified at less than 0.01% + 3 mV, while current load and line regulation remain under 0.01% + 250 µA. This model maintains output ripple and noise to less than 0.5 mVrms (and less than 5 mVpp peak-to-peak) normal mode voltage, with a normal mode current noise below 4 mArms. Connections are versatile, featuring both front-panel binding posts and a rear-panel screw-terminal block.
Frequently asked questions
- What display technologies are used on these power supplies?
- The single-output E3640 Series models utilize a 4-digit LED display, whereas the dual-output E3648A is equipped with a Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD).
- What mounting options are available for system integration?
- A rack mount kit is available using Option 1CM or Option 1CN to adapt the instruments for standard system racks.
- What are the dual-range output capabilities of the E3648A?
- Each of the two isolated channels on the E3648A can be programmed to either a low-range output of 0 to 8 V at up to 5 A, or a high-range output of 0 to 20 V at up to 2.5 A.