Agilent/Keysight 4272A

The Agilent/Keysight 4272A is a legacy 1 MHz preset capacitance meter designed for direct measurement of capacitive components and networks. As a discontinued instrument, it represents the single-parameter focus of earlier LCR measurement technology, operating at a fixed 1 MHz test frequency optimized for capacitor characterization in production and laboratory environments.

– Technical Specifications

The 4272A measures capacitance with display resolution up to 5½ digits and typical accuracy of 0.05% to 0.1% across its measurement range. Test signal levels are variable, typically spanning 1 mV to 5 Vrms, allowing flexible stimulus conditions for different component types and sensitivities.

Operation is fixed at 1 MHz test frequency. Related instruments in the Agilent/Keysight LCR meter family operated across broader frequency ranges—from 100 Hz to 100 kHz (4274A), 10 kHz to 10 MHz (4275A), and 20 Hz to 1 MHz (4284A)—providing context for the metrological approach of this era.

– Key Features

• Four-terminal pair measurement configuration for lead impedance compensation
• Series and parallel measurement circuit modes
• Built-in zero adjustment to compensate for residual inductance, capacitance, and resistance in fixtures and cables
• Automatic self-test function for operational verification
• GPIB (IEEE-488) interface for automated test sequencing and system integration
• Support for handler interfaces in production test environments

– Typical Applications

Capacitor acceptance testing and incoming component verification. Production binning and sorting by capacitance value. Characterization of capacitive networks in fixed-frequency applications. Laboratory measurement of passive components where single-parameter focus and 1 MHz operation align with test requirements.

– Compatibility & Integration

The 4272A integrates into automated test systems via GPIB control. Handler interfaces support high-volume production testing with automated measurement sequencing and binning functions. As a legacy instrument, repair and calibration services may be sourced through specialized test equipment vendors.