When connected together, Model 2182A and Model 6220 or 6221 can be operated like a single instrument. The 2182A/622X combination is ideal for resistance measurements, pulsed I-V measurements, and differential conductance measurements, providing significant advantages over other solutions. The 2182A/622X combination is also well suited for many nanotechnology applications because it can measure resistance without dissipating much power in the device under test (DUT), which would otherwise invalidate results or even destroy the DUT.

Model 6221 AC and DC Current Source

• Source and sink (programmable load) 100fA to 100mA
• 10¹⁴Ω output impedance ensures stable current sourcing into variable loads
• Source AC currents from 2pA to 100mA for AC characterization of components and materials. The 6221's 10MHz output update rate generates smooth sine waves up to 100kHz
• 65000-point source memory allows executing comprehensive test current sweeps directly from the current source
• Reconfigurable triax output simplifies matching the application's guarding requirements
• Model 220 emulation mode eliminates need to reprogram existing application
• Built-in Ethernet interface for easy remote control without a GPIB controller card

Model 2182A Nanovoltmeter

• 1 nV resolution on 10.000000 mV range
• p-p noise at 1s response time, 40-50nV p-p noise at 60ms
• Synchronization to line provides 110dB NMRR and minimizes the effect of AC common-mode currents
• Dual channels support measuring voltage, temperature, or the ratio of an unknown resistance to a reference resistor
• Thermocouple linearization (8 T/C types) and cold junction compensation
• GPIB and RS-232 Interface

The Need for Precision, Low Current Sourcing
Device testing and characterization for today's very small and power-efficient electronics requires sourcing low current levels, which demands the use of a precision, low current source. Lower stimulus currents produce lower – and harder to measure – voltages across the device. Combining Model 6221 AC and DC Current Source with a Model 2182A Nanovoltmeter makes it possible to address both of these challenges.

Differential Conductance
Differential conductance measurements are among the most important and critical measurements made on non-linear tunneling devices and on low temperature devices. Mathematically, differential conductance is the derivative of a device's I-V curve. Model 6221, combined with Model 2182A, is the industry's most complete solution for differential conductance measurements. Together, these instruments are also the fastest solution available, providing 10x the speed and significantly lower noise than other options. Data can be obtained in a single measurement pass, rather than by averaging the result of multiple sweeps, which is both time-consuming and prone to error. Model 6221 and 2182A are also easy to use because the combination can be treated as a single instrument. Their simple connections eliminate the isolation and noise current problems that plague other solutions.