Model 2182A Nanovoltmeter

Keithley Instruments, Inc. (Solon, OH) has introduced the Model 2182A nanovoltmeter, which is optimized for making low noise measurements in research, metrology, nanotechnology, superconductivity, and other low voltage/resistance applications.

The Model 2182A brings a powerful new set of capabilities to researchers when used in conjunction with Keithley’s recently introduced models 6220 DC current source and 6221 AC/DC current source; users now are able to make resistance measurements, pulsed I-V measurements, and differential conductance measurements faster and more accurately than previously possible, in many cases eliminating the need for an expensive lock-in amplifier or AC resistance bridge. The combination is also useful in many nanotechnology applications because of its ability to measure resistance while dissipating very little power in the device under test (DUT). Major Features/Benefits.

The Model 2182A is able to minimize DC drift and noise common to low voltage measurements with rapid measurement speeds beyond what is achievable by previous nanovoltmeters or sensitive DMMs. The instrument is able to make 15nV peak-to-peak measurements at one-second response times and 40-50 nV p-p measurements at 60 millisecond times.

The unit features a built-in Delta Mode to coordinate measurements with a reversing current source (one-button operation when used with Keithley models 6220/6221) at up to 24Hz with 3nVrms/root-Hz noise, creating a system optimized for precision measurements of low resistance materials or devices. The new delta mode operation alternates nearly three times faster than its predecessor model, reducing measurement noise by nearly a factor of two. In addition, the new delta mode incorporates a new cancellation method that reduces the effects due to changing thermoelectric voltages by a factor of ten compared to its predecessor.

By synchronizing to line frequency, the Model 2182A provides 110dB rejection to noise at line frequency and minimizes the effect of AC common-mode currents. The unit offers two channels for measuring voltage or temperature. Or, the second channel can be used for reading the ratio of an unknown resistance directly to a reference resistor. Built-in thermocouple calculations for types J, K, N, T, E, R, S, and B are provided.

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