SafeRanging™
The
PocketPico
offers a unique patent pending technology called
SafeRanging — a continuous ranging feature that is
superior to the conventional relay based auto-ranging
technology integrated into other picoammeters.
SafeRanging allows the PocketPico to be a smaller,
safer, more convenient instrument.
SafeRanging simplifies your
testing by allowing you to measure
current in the pico through milliamp ranges in a
single measurement range while
eliminating the problems
of range selection and auto-range changing
present in other picoammeters. SafeRanging makes use
of a logarithmic current measurement scale across a
wide range of input currents with no need to set a
beginning measurement range.
Problems
with Auto-Ranging
When auto-ranging was
introduced into picoammeters including the Keithley
6485, it decreased testing time by enabling
automation. However, this breakthrough came with some
drawbacks, most notably an increased risk injected
current due to transient voltages. The
PocketPico’s SafeRanging technology solves this
issue.
Other manufacturers warn that
their picoammeters cannot maintain the voltage burden
specification when switching ranges, and so the
picoammeter becomes a current-limited voltage source
until it re-attains equilibrium. This results in a
current surge into your setup that can result in a
voltage spike up to hundreds of volts.
The Simple
Life
With the PocketPico there’s no
need to estimate the range to begin taking
measurements, no need to define a specific range or
trying to work around the problem, and no need for
expensive protection hardware. Life in the lab
is simpler, faster and more convenient. And
with the portability of the PocketPico you can grab
it, hook it up, and start your measurements.
For more information, view the PocketPico
Ammeter Theory of Operation
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