Keysight / Agilent / HP E3242A Charge/Voltage Breakout Box

The Keysight E3242A Charge/Voltage Breakout Box is a four-channel signal conditioning accessory engineered for integration with Keysight E1432A and E1433A VXI digitizer modules. It enables direct connection of charge mode accelerometers, voltage signals, and 4 mA constant current-powered accelerometers, eliminating the need for external transducer conditioning hardware in VXI measurement systems. Each channel provides dual input connector types—BNC for voltage and constant current input, and Microdot for charge mode accelerometers—supporting both acoustic and mechanical test applications.

The E3242A implements programmable signal conditioning with a three-stage selectable gain charge amplifier, switchable 2 kHz low-pass filter, and software-controlled float/ground selection for input connector shells. The integrated 4 mA IEPE current source operates under program control with active status indication. All four channels deliver buffered BNC outputs for signal monitoring or external recording. Remote programmability via I2C control allows real-time adjustment of gain, filter engagement, current source activation, and grounding configuration through application software.

## Technical Specifications

• **Channels:** 4
• **Input Connectors per Channel:** One female BNC (voltage/4 mA supply); one Microdot (charge accelerometer)
• **Output Connectors:** Buffered BNC per channel, rear panel mounted
• **Charge Amplifier:** Three selectable gain settings
• **Low-Pass Filter:** 2 kHz, software switchable
• **IEPE Current Source:** 4 mA constant current, software switchable with indicator
• **Float/Ground Switch:** Per-channel software control of input connector shell
• **Module Connection:** 26-pin connector with supplied 2 m extension cable
• **Dimensions:** 174 mm width
• **Weight:** Approximately 1.5 kg (excluding cable)

## Key Features

• Integrated charge amplifier with programmable gain eliminates external signal conditioning
• Dual input connectors per channel accommodate multiple transducer types without reconfiguration
• BNC direct connection to VXI module bypasses amplification when not required
• Software-controlled 2 kHz filter and grounding options for noise and coupling management
• Switchable 4 mA current source with status indication for IEPE accelerometer power

## Typical Applications

• Acoustic and mechanical vibration measurements
• Multi-channel accelerometer data acquisition
• Charge and voltage mode sensor integration in VXI test systems

## Compatibility & Integration

Designed exclusively for Keysight/Agilent/HP E1432A and E1433A VXI digitizer modules. Remote control through I2C programming interface enables fully automated measurement configuration.