Agilent/Keysight PD1500A

The Keysight PD1500A is a Dynamic Power Device Analyzer and Double Pulse Tester engineered for characterizing Wide Bandgap semiconductor devices based on Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) technologies, with support for Si MOSFETs and IGBTs. The instrument delivers repeatable, reliable dynamic measurements across the full switching trajectory, eliminating reliance on custom-built testers and enabling direct correlation with device datasheets. Developed in collaboration with semiconductor manufacturers and industry leaders in energy and electric vehicle sectors, the PD1500A addresses the measurement challenges of high-speed switching, elevated voltage operation, and thermal characterization critical to power converter design.

– Technical Specifications

• Maximum output voltage: 1200 V
• Maximum output current: 200 A
• Pulsed power capability: up to 1500 A with 10 μs resolution
• Current measurement resolution: 10 fA minimum
• Device support: 600 V, 1200 V, and 1700 V rated devices

– Key Features

• Double Pulse Test (DPT) for dynamic parameter extraction
• Turn-on and turn-off characterization with dynamic on-resistance measurement
• Switching energy analysis (e_sw vs. time)
• Gate charge measurements including Qgs(th), Qgs(pl), and Qgd for drive loss determination
• Reverse recovery characterization: trr, Qrr, Err, and Irr
• Time-domain waveform capture: Id vs. t, Vds vs. t, Vgs vs. t, Ig vs. t, and clamped Vds vs. t
• Derived output characteristics: Id vs. Vg and Id vs. Vd transfer functions
• Passive and differential probe compensation
• Offset adjustment and de-skewing for timing correlation
• Modular, expandable architecture aligned with evolving JEDEC standards

– Typical Applications

• Power converter design and optimization
• Transportation electrification and EV powertrain development
• Renewable energy systems characterization
• Industrial power electronics validation

– Compatibility & Integration

The PD1500A platform accommodates discrete devices and modules across WBG and silicon-based power semiconductor families, with architecture designed to support emerging device technologies and industry standards evolution.