Keithley 246 High Voltage Supply High Voltage

The Keithley 246 High Voltage Supply delivers precision DC sourcing from 0 to 3100 V with maximum output current of 10 mA, integrated with built-in metering for voltage monitoring and polarity verification. This instrument combines high-voltage generation with accurate measurement capability, enabling I-V characterization across biasing, resistivity assessment, and leakage testing applications. Solid-state comparator amplifier and stacked series regulator tubes provide ±1% dial accuracy and exceptional long-term stability of ±0.01% + 2 mV over 8-hour periods following warm-up.

Technical Specifications

• Output Voltage: 0 to 3100 V DC; three calibrated in-line dials with 10 V steps; potentiometer interpolation (≤50 mV resolution); selectable positive or negative polarity relative to chassis


• Output Current: 10 mA maximum; electronic current limiting to <13 mA with automatic 1-second recovery


• Accuracy: ±1% of dial setting


• Stability: ±0.01% + 2 mV (after 1-hour warm-up, per 8-hour period)


• Line Regulation: 0.001% + 2 mV across 10% line voltage variation


• Load Regulation: 0.002% + 2 mV (no-load to full-load)


• Ripple and Noise: <1 mV RMS above 5 cps


• Power Input: 105-125 VAC or 210-250 VAC, switch-selectable, 50-60 Hz; 105 W consumption


• Output Connectors: MHV series (UG-931/U) on front and rear panels

Key Features

• Overload-tolerant design withstands repeated overload conditions without degradation


• Metal-film resistors and selected zener diode ensure operational reliability


• Remote control and programming capability via rear-panel connectors


• Metering function provides real-time output voltage and polarity verification

Typical Applications

• High-voltage biasing for photomultiplier tubes, ion chambers, photocells, and current detectors


• Voltage gradient studies and surface/volume resistivity measurements


• Capacitor leakage characterization

Compatibility & Integration Physical footprint: 5.25 in H × 19 in W × 10 in D; 25 lb net weight. MHV connectors enable integration into existing test systems requiring dual front/rear panel access.