HP 11713A Attenuator/Switch Driver

The HP 11713A Attenuator/Switch Driver provides precise control of RF and microwave attenuators and switches in automated test and calibration systems. It drives up to ten switch or attenuator sections, with simultaneous control of two attenuators and two switches. The instrument delivers +24 Vdc (±2.0 Vdc) output with maximum peak current of 1.3 A for 1 second and continuous current capability of 0.65 A. Switching time is less than 10 milliseconds, with contact pair response times of 10 µs maximum for pairs 1–8 and 20 ms maximum for pairs 9 and 0.

– Technical Specifications

• Drive Capability: Up to ten switch or attenuator sections; concurrent control of two attenuators and two switches
• Voltage Output: +24 Vdc (±2.0 Vdc)
• Current: Peak 1.3 A (1 second duration); Continuous 0.65 A
• Load Inductance: Maximum 500 mH
• Switching Time: <10 milliseconds
• Response Time: 10 µs max (pairs 1–8); 20 ms max (pairs 9–0)
• Power Supply: Self-contained with current limiting and short-circuit protection
• Input Power: 100, 120/220, 240 Vac; 48–440 Hz; 80 VA maximum
• Operating Temperature: 0° to +55°C
• General-purpose relay driver: Up to ten external 24 Vdc relays

– Key Features

• Manual control via front panel pushbuttons
• Remote operation through HP-IB (Hewlett-Packard Interface Bus)
• HP-IB address selection via switches A1–A5; factory preset to address 28
• 24-pin HP-IB programming connector (mates with 10631A/B/C cables)
• Two plug-in drive cables supplied; optional configurations available
• Compatible with any +24 Vdc common, ground-activated driveline topology
• Half-width module: 102 mm height (89 mm rack height); 213 mm × 295 mm footprint
• Net weight 4.1 kg

– Typical Applications

• Automated RF test systems requiring attenuator or switch sequencing
• Calibration system integration with multi-section RF signal paths
• General-purpose 24 Vdc relay driving in laboratory and production environments

– Compatibility & Integration

The 11713A integrates with HP and Keysight programmable step attenuators and electromechanical switches. Drive cable options include Viking connector to 10-pin DIP configurations and Viking-to-Viking cables for multiple switch connections.