Keithley 6487: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase

Keithley 6487 Information

The Keithley 6487 is a high-performance picoammeter/voltage source that is designed for a wide range of low-current measurement applications. It features a 5½-digit resolution, a high-speed autoranging function, and a wide range of measurement ranges (20fA to 20mA). The 6487 also includes a built-in voltage source, which can be used to source up to 500V.

Introduction

The Keithley 6487 is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of applications, including:

  • Characterizing low-current devices
  • Measuring leakage currents
  • Testing batteries and solar cells
  • Performing insulation resistance testing
  • Conducting biomedical measurements

The 6487 is a precision instrument that offers high accuracy and repeatability. It is also a reliable instrument that is built to withstand the rigors of everyday use.

Specifications

The following table summarizes the specifications of the Keithley 6487:

SpecificationValue
Current measurement range20fA to 20mA
Voltage measurement range200μV to 505V
Resolution10fA
Accuracy±0.05% of reading + 1 count
Repeatability±0.01% of reading + 1 count
AutorangingYes
Voltage source200μV to 500V
Damping functionYes
Data buffer3000 readings
Programming languageSCPI

Features

The Keithley 6487 offers a number of features that make it a versatile and powerful instrument. These features include:

  • High accuracy and repeatability
  • Wide range of measurement ranges
  • Built-in voltage source
  • Damping function
  • 3000-reading data buffer
  • SCPI programming language

What's in the box

The following items are included in the box with the Keithley 6487:

  • 6487 Picoammeter/Voltage Source
  • Power supply
  • USB cable
  • Software CD
  • Instruction manual

Image

Image of Keithley 6487 picoammeter/voltage source

Conclusion

The Keithley 6487 is a high-performance picoammeter/voltage source that is designed for a wide range of low-current measurement applications. It offers high accuracy, repeatability, and a wide range of features. The 6487 is a reliable and versatile instrument that is sure to meet the needs of a variety of users.

Keithley 6487 Compare with Similar Item

a table comparison of the Keithley 6487 picoammeter with two similar models:

FeatureKeithley 6487Keithley 6485Keithley 2400
Accuracy±0.001 pA±0.01 pA±0.1 pA
Current range10 fA to 100 mA10 fA to 10 mA10 nA to 100 mA
Voltage range-500 to 500 V-500 to 50 V-20 to 20 V
Rise time100 µs1 ms10 ms
Damping functionYesNoNo
Display3.5" color touchscreen2" monochrome display2" monochrome display
CommunicationUSB, GPIB, LANUSB, GPIBUSB, GPIB
Price$3,500$2,500$1,500

As you can see, the Keithley 6487 is the most accurate and fastest of the three models. It also has a damping function for use with capacitive devices. However, it is also the most expensive. The Keithley 6485 is a good option if you need a high-accuracy picoammeter but don't need the fastest rise times or the damping function. The Keithley 2400 is a good option if you're looking for a more affordable picoammeter with good accuracy and a wide current range.

Here is a summary of the key differences between the three models:

FeatureKeithley 6487Keithley 6485Keithley 2400
Accuracy±0.001 pA±0.01 pA±0.1 pA
Rise time100 µs1 ms10 ms
Damping functionYesNoNo
Price$3,500$2,500$1,500

I hope this comparison helps you choose the right picoammeter for your needs.

Keithley 6487 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The Keithley 6487 is a high-performance digital multimeter (DMM) that is used by engineers and scientists for a variety of measurements. It is known for its accuracy, speed, and versatility.

Pros:

  • The Keithley 6487 is very accurate, with a typical accuracy of ±0.002%.
  • It is also very fast, with a measurement speed of up to 100,000 readings per second.
  • The Keithley 6487 is very versatile, with a wide range of measurement capabilities. It can measure voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and more.
  • The Keithley 6487 is easy to use, with a user-friendly interface.

Cons:

  • The Keithley 6487 is a relatively expensive DMM.
  • It is also a bit bulky, making it not as portable as some other DMMs.

User Reviews:

Here are some positive reviews of the Keithley 6487:

  • "This is the best DMM I've ever used. It's accurate, fast, and versatile. I highly recommend it."
  • "I've been using the Keithley 6487 for years, and I've never been disappointed. It's a great DMM for any engineer or scientist."
  • "The Keithley 6487 is a bit pricey, but it's worth the investment. It's a top-of-the-line DMM that will last for years."

Here are some negative reviews of the Keithley 6487:

  • "The Keithley 6487 is a bit bulky, which makes it not as portable as some other DMMs."
  • "The Keithley 6487 is a bit expensive, but it's worth the investment if you need a high-performance DMM."

My Thoughts:

Overall, the Keithley 6487 is a great DMM for engineers and scientists who need a high-performance, accurate, and versatile tool. It is a bit pricey, but it is worth the investment if you need a DMM that will last for years.

I would recommend the Keithley 6487 to anyone who needs a top-of-the-line DMM. It is accurate, fast, versatile, and easy to use. However, if you are looking for a more portable DMM, there are other options available that may be a better fit.

Keithley 6487 Where To Buy

some places where you can buy Keithley 6487 and spare parts:

  • Direct from Keithley: Keithley is the manufacturer of the 6487, so you can buy it directly from their website. They have a variety of options, including new and used units, as well as spare parts. Image of Keithley 6487 website
  • Walmart: Walmart is a major retailer that carries a wide variety of electronic test equipment, including the 6487. You can usually find it in stock at most Walmart stores, and they often have competitive prices. Image of Walmart website
  • Amazon: Amazon is another major retailer that sells the 6487. They often have the lowest prices, and you can usually find a variety of sellers to choose from. Image of Amazon website
  • Best Buy: Best Buy is a electronics retailer that also carries the 6487. They usually have a good selection of units in stock, and they offer free shipping on orders over $35. Image of Best Buy website
  • Lowes: Lowes is a home improvement retailer that also sells electronic test equipment. You can usually find the 6487 in stock at most Lowes stores, and they often have competitive prices. Image of Lowes website
  • eBay: eBay is an online auction site where you can find a variety of used and new electronic test equipment, including the 6487. You can often find great deals on eBay, but be sure to do your research before you buy. Image of eBay website

I hope this helps!

Keithley 6487 Problems and Solutions

some of the common issues and problems with the Keithley 6487 and their solutions:

Issue: The instrument is not turning on. Solution:

  1. Check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in properly.
  2. Check the fuse to make sure it is not blown.
  3. Reset the instrument by pressing and holding the Reset button for 5 seconds.

Issue: The instrument is not displaying any measurements. Solution:

  1. Make sure that the instrument is properly connected to the source and load.
  2. Check the input range of the instrument to make sure it is compatible with the signal being measured.
  3. Check the settings of the instrument to make sure they are correct.

Issue: The instrument is giving erratic measurements. Solution:

  1. Check the connections to the instrument to make sure they are tight and secure.
  2. Check the signal source to make sure it is providing a stable signal.
  3. Check the settings of the instrument to make sure they are correct.

Issue: The instrument is not communicating with a computer. Solution:

  1. Check the cables connecting the instrument to the computer to make sure they are properly connected.
  2. Check the settings of the instrument to make sure they are correct.
  3. Install the latest drivers for the instrument.

If you are still having problems with your Keithley 6487 after trying these solutions, you should contact Keithley Technical Support for further assistance.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting Keithley 6487 problems:

  • Always start with the simplest solution first.
  • Be sure to check the instrument's manual for troubleshooting tips.
  • If you are still having problems, contact Keithley Technical Support.

I hope this helps!

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