Keysight / Agilent / HP E1300A B-size VXI Mainframe, 9-Slot

The Keysight E1300A is a B-size VXI mainframe providing a stable, modular platform for test and measurement systems. This 9-slot mainframe integrates a built-in command module with HP-IB interface and Resource Manager, enabling direct system control via SCPI or optional HP IBASIC. The architecture comprises 7 external slots and 2 dedicated internal slots for 2-slot multimeters such as the E1326A or E1326B, with three additional external A-size slots available for specialized interface modules like the E1324A RS-232C/422 terminal. Standard configuration includes 256 KB of non-volatile battery-backed RAM, expandable to 512 KB or 1 MB using optional memory expansion boards—recommended for instrument drivers and runtime requirements. The mainframe delivers regulated DC outputs at +5 V @ 12.2 A (120 W maximum at 40 °C), +12 V @ 4.6 A, and -12 V @ 0.9 A, with all outputs protected against overcurrent. The 16-bit data transfer bus supports VXI Specification Revision 1.4 compliance. Regular cooling accommodates standard module loads; optional handle kits and rack-mount hardware are available for deployment flexibility.

– Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: B-size VXI Mainframe
• Slot Configuration: 9 total slots (7 external, 2 internal dedicated for E1326A/E1326B multimeters, 3 external A-size slots)
• Command Module: Built-in, functionally equivalent to E1306A
• Interface: HP-IB with integrated Resource Manager
• Memory: 256 KB non-volatile battery-backed RAM (standard); optional expansion to 512 KB or 1 MB
• Data Bus: 16-bit
• Programming: SCPI; optional HP IBASIC for standalone operation
• DC Power Outputs: +5 V @ 12.2 A (120 W max @ 40 °C), +12 V @ 4.6 A, -12 V @ 0.9 A
• Backplane Signals: ACFAIL* and SYSRESET* (VXI Spec 1.4 compliant)
• Overcurrent Protection: All DC outputs
• Cooling: Standard system
• Connector: P1

– Key Features

• Integrated command module eliminates need for external controller card
• Dedicated internal slots streamline multimeter integration
• Expandable RAM supports complex instrument drivers
• Flexible A-size slot architecture for terminal interfaces and specialized I/O modules
• VXI-compliant backplane power and signaling

– Compatibility & Integration

• E1326A/E1326B 2-slot multimeters (internal slots)
• E1324A RS-232C/422 terminal interface (A-size slots)
• All VXI Specification Revision 1.4 compliant modules via external slots