Keysight N3300 Series DC Electronic Loads
4 models with full specifications from Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP).
The Keysight Technologies N3300 Series consists of a modular mainframe and dedicated DC electronic load modules, designed for automated testing of power sources, batteries, and DC-to-DC converters. At the core of the system is the N3300A mainframe, a full-rack width, 4U chassis that accommodates up to six individual load modules. This modular configuration allows technical buyers and test engineers to mix and match loads to build custom, multi-channel testing solutions.
This series includes individual modules like the N3302A, N3304A, and N3306A. Each provides distinct power, current, and slot requirements while maintaining standard control methods and constant current (CC), constant voltage (CV), and constant resistance (CR) operating modes. By using a single mainframe with standard GPIB and RS-232 interfaces, engineers can control multiple loads simultaneously using SCPI commands, minimizing system complexity and simplifying cabling in automated test environments.
- Mainframe Slots
- 6
- Total Mainframe Power
- Up to 1800 W
- Module Power Range
- 150 W to 600 W
- Operating Modes
- Constant Current, Constant Voltage, Constant Resistance
- Programming Interfaces
- GPIB, RS-232 via N3300A
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Operating Temperature | Weight | Operating Modes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N3302A | Electronic Loads | 0 °C to 55 °C | 2.72 kg | Constant Current (CC), Constant Voltage (CV), Constant Resistance (CR) |
| N3300A | Electronic Loads | 0 to 55 | 13.2 | — |
| N3304A | Agilent HP | 0 °C to 55 °C | 2.72 kg | Constant Current (CC), Constant Voltage (CV), Constant Resistance (CR) |
| N3306A | Electronic Loads | 0 to +55 | 4.08 kg | Constant Current (CC), Constant Voltage (CV), Constant Resistance (CR) |
Mainframe Configuration and System Integration
The N3300A mainframe serves as the structural and communication hub for the system. Operating on standard 100 to 240 VAC power, this full-rack unit supports a total power capacity of up to 1800 W depending on the specific module configuration. It provides six slots for installing load modules, enabling high-density multi-channel testing.
For system integration, the N3300A includes standard GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. System developers can program the mainframe using standard SCPI commands. Additionally, TTL-compatible trigger input and output lines are built into the mainframe to synchronize load steps with external instruments.
Load Module Comparison and Power Scaling
The electronic load modules differ primarily in power handling, current range, and slot width, allowing engineers to choose the appropriate unit for their specific test requirements:
- N3302A: A single-slot module rated for up to 150 W, 60 V, and 30 A. It features a low current range of 0 to 3 A and a high range of 0 to 30 A. Command processing time is under 2 ms.
- N3304A: A single-slot module that doubles the power capacity to 300 W, supporting up to 60 V and 60 A. It provides a current slew rate of 10 A/μs and features a built-in transient generator operating from 0.25 Hz to 10 kHz.
- N3306A: A dual-slot module designed for higher power demands up to 600 W, 60 V, and 120 A. It includes advanced protection features like overvoltage, overcurrent, overpower, and overtemperature protection.
Operating Modes and Measurement Capabilities
All modules in the series, including the N3302A, N3304A, and N3306A, operate in Constant Current (CC), Constant Voltage (CV), and Constant Resistance (CR) modes. Low minimum operating voltages of 1.2 V at full current (specified for the N3302A and N3304A) allow for testing of low-voltage semiconductor power systems.
Measurement performance is supported by precise internal converters. For example, the N3302A offers 16-bit voltage and current readback. For dynamic testing, both the N3304A and N3306A feature built-in transient generators, and the N3304A also allows analog programming via a 0 to 10 V input corresponding to full scale.
Frequently asked questions
- How many modules can the N3300A mainframe support?
- The N3300A mainframe has six slots. It can house up to six single-slot modules, such as the N3302A or N3304A, or a combination of single-slot and dual-slot modules (like the N3306A) up to the six-slot limit.
- What is the maximum current capacity of the N3306A module?
- The N3306A module supports a maximum input current of 120 A, with programmable ranges of 12 A and 120 A.
- Do these modules require an external power supply to run?
- No, the load modules like the N3302A are powered directly through the N3300A mainframe, eliminating the need for individual power cables.