HP 6181C Current source

The HP 6181C is a precision current source for semiconductor research, electrochemistry, and materials science applications. It delivers stable, accurate current control across three ranges (0–2.5 mA, 0–25 mA, 0–250 mA) with 0.5 µA resolution and 0.03% set resolution in low-current modes. The instrument operates in constant current (CC) and constant current/voltage-limit (CC/CV) modes, accommodating output voltages up to 100 V with adjustable compliance from 0.5 V to 100 V. An integral SCR crowbar circuit protects against overvoltage, reducing output to zero when the preset limit (0.5 V to 10% above rating) is exceeded.

– Technical Specifications

Output Current
• Three ranges: 0–2.5 mA, 0–25 mA, 0–250 mA
• Full-scale current: 250 mA
• Resolution: 0.5 µA
• Set resolution: 0.03% (≤1 µA in 0–0.25 mA range)
• Adjustment via 10-turn potentiometer

Voltage Compliance & Protection
• Maximum output: 100 V
• Adjustable voltage limit: 0.5 V to 100 V
• Overvoltage crowbar range: 0.5 V to 10% over rating

Stability & Regulation
• Load regulation: <25 ppm of initial value + 5 ppm of range setting
• Line regulation: <25 ppm of initial value + 5 ppm of range setting (104–127 Vac / 208–254 Vac input)
• Drift: <100 ppm of output current + 25 ppm of set range (8 hours at 55°C, after 1-hour warm-up)
• Settling time: <800 µs to 1% of rated output after full load change

Power & Environment
• AC input: 104–127 Vac or 208–254 Vac (switchable), 48–440 Hz
• Input power: 55 W nominal
• Operating temperature: 0 to 55°C
• Storage temperature: −40 to +75°C

– Key Features

• High output impedance; no output capacitor
• Remote analog programming: 1% current accuracy + 0.04% of range; 435 Ω/V voltage limit control
• Front-panel meter selectable for voltage or current display
• Compact form factor: 155 mm H × 197 mm W × 317 mm D; 7.7 kg net weight

– Typical Applications

• Semiconductor characterization and device testing
• Electrochemical measurements
• Materials science research

– Compatibility & Integration

Remote programming via external resistance control enables integration into automated test systems and measurement benches requiring analog signal input.