Agilent/Keysight E8460A

The Agilent/Keysight E8460A is a C-size, single-slot VXI reed relay multiplexer module delivering 256 channels of high-density switching with fast scanning capability. Register-based architecture enables flexible reconfiguration across multiple topologies—from 256×1 to sixteen 16×1 arrangements—supporting two-wire, three-wire, and four-wire measurement configurations. Reed relay switching with 0.5 ms maximum open/close time provides deterministic performance for automated test systems requiring rapid channel access and dynamic signal routing.

– Technical Specifications

• Module Form Factor: C-size, 1-slot VXI
• Channel Count: 256
• Switch Type: Reed relays
• Switching Speed: 0.5 ms maximum open/close time
• Reconfigurable Topologies: 256×1, four 64×1, 128×2, two 32×4, 64×3, sixteen 16×1
• Measurement Modes: Two-wire, three-wire, four-wire
• Power Consumption: 8.5 W per slot
• Airflow Requirement: 0.7 liters/second
• Weight: 3.10 lbs

– Key Features

• Voltage Ratings (Option 012): 200 V DC maximum, 140 V AC RMS maximum, 200 V AC peak maximum
• Voltage Ratings (Option 014): 60 V DC maximum, 50 V AC RMS maximum (30 V for exposed conductors), 70.7 V AC peak maximum (42.4 V for exposed conductors)
• Current Per Channel: 300 mA switching (Option 012); 100 mA switching (Option 014)
• Maximum Power: 5 VA per channel (resistive load)
• Contact Protection: Fault-tolerant terminal block options with positive temperature coefficient resettable fuses available
• Interface: A16 slave-only VXI bus; P1/P2 connectors
• Terminal Block Options: Three configurations supporting crimp-and-insert connectors, ribbon cable connectors, and fault-tolerant DUT input protection

– Typical Applications

High-channel-count switching matrices for automated test environments, signal routing in multi-channel data acquisition, and parametric testing systems requiring deterministic relay switching performance.

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed for integration within VXI-based test systems. Includes 2.5-inch analog bus cable (E1400-61605) for cascading with adjacent E8460A modules or E1411B multimeter modules. Register-based command architecture enables straightforward integration with VXI controller firmware.