Keysight (Agilent) B1513A

The Keysight (Agilent) B1513A is a single-channel high-voltage source-measure unit (HVSMU) engineered for precision DC and pulsed characterization of power devices and high-voltage semiconductors. This module integrates voltage and current sourcing with simultaneous measurement capability, delivering sub-picoamp leakage detection at voltages up to 3000 V and supporting power levels to 20 W. The B1513A functions as a core component within the Keysight B1505A Power Device Analyzer/Curve Tracer, enabling advanced device modeling and high-power electronics testing without thermal stress.

Technical Specifications

• Voltage Source: ±200 V (DC & pulsed); extended range to 1500 V @ 8 mA or 3000 V @ 4 mA


• Current Source: ±1 A (DC & pulsed); measurement range 10 fA to 1 A


• Measurement Resolution: 6.5 digits


• Voltage Measurement: 2 µV to 200 V


• Current Noise: < 1 nA RMS (typical)


• Voltage Noise: < 10 µV RMS (typical)


• Load Regulation: < 0.01% + 1 mV


• Line Regulation: < 0.01% + 1 mV


• Pulse Width Range: 500 µs to 2 s


• Power Output: Up to 20 W


• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +40°C

Key Features

• Single-box high-voltage and high-power integration eliminates external component scaling


• Sub-picoamp leakage measurement capability at 3000 V enables precise characterization of reverse-bias currents


• Dual voltage/current measurement modes support both precision analysis and power device validation


• Pulsed and DC operation modes with programmable pulse durations minimize thermal drift in temperature-sensitive applications


• 6.5-digit resolution with tight load and line regulation ensures consistency across parameter sweeps

Typical Applications

• Power MOSFET and IGBT device characterization


• High-voltage diode leakage and reverse-bias testing


• Semiconductor material analysis requiring sub-nanoamp sensitivity


• Thermal stress testing of power electronics at controlled voltage and current levels

Compatibility & Integration The B1513A integrates into the Keysight B1505A Power Device Analyzer/Curve Tracer platform via GPIB, USB, and LAN connectivity. Note: The N1267A accessory is not compatible with the B1513A HVSMU.