Ametek / VTI Instruments / VXI Technology VT1503A 8-Channel Programmable Filter/Gain SCP Module

The Ametek VT1503A is an 8-channel programmable filter and gain Signal Conditioning Plug-on (SCP) module for VXI systems. It mounts directly onto VXI scanning measurement and control modules—such as the VT1413C, VT1415A, VT1419A, and VT1422A—to deliver analog signal conditioning for data acquisition and instrumentation applications. The module combines independent low-pass filtering and adjustable gain on each channel with built-in transducer diagnostics.

– Technical Specifications

• Channels: 8 independent channels
• Programmable Low-Pass Filter: Cutoff frequencies at 2 Hz, 10 Hz, and 100 Hz; pass-through mode at 1.5 kHz (filter OFF)
• Programmable Amplifier Gain: Three selectable levels—1, 8, and 64
• Input Protection: Over-voltage protection on each channel
• Open Transducer Detection (OTD): Injected-current method on all channels; controlled via Card Control Register bits
• Control Interface: SCPI commands and register-based programming
• Form Factor: Signal Conditioning Plug-on (SCP) daughterboard design
• Bus Interface: Standard VXIbus connector

– Key Features

• Independent channel programming allows per-channel filter and gain configuration
• Pass-through filter mode supports higher-frequency signals up to 1.5 kHz
• Open circuit detection capability identifies transducer connection faults without manual intervention
• Over-voltage clamping protects downstream data acquisition electronics
• Dual control modes (SCPI and register-based) enable integration with diverse test system architectures

– Typical Applications

• Multi-channel data acquisition with selective bandwidth filtering
• Sensor signal conditioning for transducer-based measurements
• Test systems requiring programmable signal scaling and filtering
• Automated fault detection in transducer installations

– Compatibility & Integration

The VT1503A mates with VXI C-size, single-slot measurement and scanning modules including the VT1413C, VT1415A, VT1419A, and VT1422A. It is also compatible with Agilent/HP E1313 and E1413B/E1413 Option 13 platforms. Up to eight SCP modules can be deployed on a single VXI card to expand channel density and measurement flexibility.