Agilent/Keysight 59501A HP-IB Isolated Digital-to-Analog Power Supply Programmer

The Agilent/Keysight 59501A is a precision digital-to-analog converter that programs HP power supplies over the HP-IB interface. It translates digital commands into programmable analog voltage outputs, enabling automatic control of DC voltage and current from connected power supplies. Built-in 600 V isolation protects instrumentation on the HP-IB bus from potential damage originating from power supply outputs.

The unit maintains near-zero output until programmed, ensuring stable initialization.

Technical Specifications

• Interface: HP-IB (Hewlett-Packard Interface Bus)


• Isolation: 600 V between HP-IB lines and output terminals


• Output Modes:

Unipolar: 0 to +0.999 V or 0 to +9.99 V

Bipolar: −1 V to +0.998 V or −10 V to +9.98 V

Programmable Ranges: 0–1 V and 0–10 V (software selectable)

Output Current: Up to 10 mA with automatic current limiting

Programming Response Time: Full-scale voltage change in approximately 250 µs from data receipt

Accuracy (at 23°C ± 5°C):

Unipolar mode: 0.05% M + 0.25% P

Low range unipolar mode: 0.01% M + ...

Key Features

• Programmable High/Low range control for enhanced resolution and flexibility


• Front-panel zero adjust to correct small power supply offsets


• Full-scale adjust control to set maximum power supply output


• Automatic current limiting protects equipment and programmer


• Direct use as a low-level DC signal source


• Safe initial state with output near zero before programming

Typical Applications

• Automated DC power supply voltage and current programming


• Low-level analog signal sourcing in test and measurement systems


• Precision control of HP power supply parameters in automated test sequences

Compatibility & Integration Designed to interface with HP power supplies for seamless integration into HP-IB instrumentation networks. The 600 V isolation architecture protects connected equipment from high-voltage transients.