Lake Shore Cryotronics 121, User Manual

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Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Overview
The Model 121 programmable DC current source is a precision instru-
ment suitable for bench-top use or panel-mounted operation in labs,
test facilities, and manufacturing environments. It provides a low noise,
highly-stable source of current up to 100 mA, with convenient manual
selection through 13 pre-set output levels, each representing a ten-fold
change in power when attached to a resistive load. A “user” setting
allows the current output to be defined anywhere within the operating
range of the unit, from 100 nA to 100 mA.
Programmable operation is also possible via the instrument’s USB com-
puter interface, through which the Model 121 can be commanded to
output any desired current at any time. Thus, application-specific test
currents can be driven from an external PC.
The instrument operates at 5 VDC, and power is supplied by the external
AC wall-mount supply provided with the standard Model 121. The sup-
ply will automatically conform to any AC line voltage ranging from
100 VAC to 240 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz.
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7 decades of output current, selectable in 13 steps
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Programmable current output, 100 nA to 100 mA
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Low-noise output
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Large 3 digit LED display
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Simple user interface
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Current reversal feature
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USB interface enables integration with automated test systems
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DIN panel-mountable package
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Detachable output terminal block
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CE mark certification