Keithley 3401-R Pulse/Pattern Generator, Single-Channel

The Keithley 3401-R is a single-channel pulse/pattern generator engineered for precise signal generation across component testing, signal simulation, and automated test system integration. It delivers programmable pulse control from sub-nanosecond to kilosecond timescales, with selectable output impedance and four operating modes including pulse, burst, pattern, and external width generation.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 1 mHz to 165 MHz


• Pulse period: 6.06 ns to 1000 s


• Pulse width: <3 ns to 1000 s (programmable)


• Rise/fall time: 2 ns minimum, adjustable <2.5 ns to 200 ms


• Delay: 0 to (period – 3.02 ns); fixed delay 22 ns nominal


• Period jitter (RMS): VCO 0.015% + 20 ps; PLL 0.001% + 15 ps


• Delay and width jitter (RMS): 0.01% + 15 ps Amplitude & Output


• Output amplitude: ±10 V (50Ω); ±20 V (1kΩ); 100 mV to +10 V (50Ω into 50Ω); 200 mV to +20 V (1kΩ into 50Ω)


• Amplitude accuracy: ±(0.5% amplitude + 30 mV)


• Offset accuracy: ±100 mV


• Output impedance: Selectable 50Ω or 1kΩ


• Output resolution: 10 mV (50Ω into 50Ω); 20 mV (1kΩ into 50Ω)


• Short circuit current: ±400 mA


• Overshoot/pre-shoot/ringing: ±5% ±20 mV Accuracy & Resolution


• Pulse width accuracy: ±0.5% ±250 ps typical (with self-calibration)


• Delay accuracy: ±0.5% ±0.5 ns typical (with self-calibration)


• Period accuracy: PLL ±0.01%; VCO ±0.5% typical


• Delay and width resolution: 3.5 digits (20 ps best case)

Key Features

• Single-channel design for point-source signal generation


• Pattern generation with serial data simulation capability


• Programmable duty cycle control


• Reference oscillator: 10 MHz, 0 dBm typical input (20 dBm max); 1 V p-p typical output

Typical Applications

• Component and device characterization


• Digital signal simulation and timing verification


• Pulse train generation for transient testing


• Serial pattern stimulus in automated test environments

Compatibility & Integration

• Control via front-panel GUI, GPIB (IEEE 488.2, SCPI compliant), and USB


• Trigger Out, Strobe Out, Clock In, External In connectors


• Reference oscillator inputs/outputs on rear panel


• Universal input: 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 165 VA max


• Operating range: 0°C to 50°C; up to 80% RH at 35°C


• Dimensions: 439 mm W × 87 mm H × 393 mm D; 6.80 kg