HP / Agilent 54656A RS-232 Test Automation Module

The HP/Agilent 54656A RS-232 Test Automation Module is an interface accessory that adds remote programming and serial communication capability to Agilent 54600-series oscilloscopes. This module enables standalone automated testing sequences and pass/fail analysis without requiring a host computer, supporting up to 100 nonvolatile sequence steps and 40 nonvolatile mask templates with built-in generation and editing. The module preserves two nonvolatile trace memories when power is removed, making it ideal for production test environments where data integrity is critical. External control inputs provide Next, Previous, and Reset functions, while five user-definable output lines allow integration with external test equipment and control systems. An RS-232 adapter cable and 2-meter RJ-45 cable are included for immediate deployment.

Technical Specifications

Sequence Capacity: Up to 100 nonvolatile steps

Mask Templates: Up to 40 nonvolatile templates with built-in generation and editing

Trace Memories: 2 nonvolatile

Control Inputs: Next, Previous, Reset

Output Lines: 5 user-definable

Serial Interface: RS-232

Memory Retention: Over 10 years (internal lithium batteries)

Included Cables: HP 98561-61604 RS-232 adapter cable, one 2-meter RJ-45 cable

Protection: Recessed protection switch

Key Features

Standalone automation eliminates dependency on external computers for test sequences

Nonvolatile storage preserves all configuration and trace data across power cycles

Mask-based pass/fail analysis enables rapid acceptance/rejection testing

External I/O lines support integration with automated test handlers and peripheral equipment

Recessed protection switch prevents accidental parameter changes during operation

Typical Applications

Production test automation for digital and analog circuits

Go/no-go testing with predefined mask templates

Automated measurement sequences with branching logic

Integration into ATE systems via RS-232 and discrete I/O lines

Compatibility & Integration The module is compatible with all Agilent 54600-series oscilloscopes, including the 54600B-series. It has full I/O functionality with 54645A/D, 54615B, and 54616B/C models. The Agilent 54620A logic analyzer supports this module for I/O functions. Complementary interface modules include the HP 54655A (HP-IB), HP 54657A (HP-IB Measurement/Storage), HP 54659B (RS-232/Parallel), and HP 54652B (Parallel with RS-232). Documentation includes the User's Guide and HP 54600A/54601A Programmer's Guide.