Aeroflex / Tektronix / CDS 53A-522 Digital Multimeter Card

The Aeroflex/Tektronix/CDS 53A-522 is a 4½ digit digital multimeter card engineered for integration into CDS 53/63 Series automated test systems. This guarded, dual-slope integrating multimeter accepts ASCII character commands from a system controller and delivers measurement results as decimal ASCII characters with carriage-return and line-feed termination. The card performs voltage, current, and resistance measurements at a maximum rate of 15 readings per second, providing precision instrumentation for complex test setups requiring multi-channel data acquisition.

– Technical Specifications

• Resolution: 4½ digits
• Measurement Rate: 15 readings/second maximum
• Integration Type: Dual-slope with guarded measurement
• Programming Interface: ASCII character commands
• Data Output: Decimal ASCII characters with CR/LF termination
• Operating Temperature: -10°C to +65°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
• Humidity: <95% R.H. non-condensing (-10°C to +30°C); <75% R.H. non-condensing (+31°C to +40°C)
• Form Factor: Printed circuit board assembly for 53/63 Series card cage insertion
• Power: Supplied by 53/63 Series card cage internal power distribution

– Key Features

• Guarded integration eliminates measurement errors from leakage currents
• Dual-slope analog-to-digital conversion provides superior noise rejection
• ASCII-based programming allows straightforward control from BASIC and other host languages
• Modular design integrates with other 53A series cards including scanner modules
• System cooling provided by integrated 53/63 Series card cage fan

– Typical Applications

• Automated DC voltage, current, and resistance measurement in production test environments
• Multi-channel data acquisition when combined with 53A scanner cards
• Precision component characterization and validation
• Integrated test systems requiring deterministic, high-speed measurement cycles

– Compatibility & Integration

The 53A-522 operates within the CDS 53/63 Series architecture and requires a control card such as the 53A-171 for system operation. It integrates with other 53A series cards, including scanner cards like the 53A-332, enabling flexible multi-point measurement configurations.