Keysight (Agilent) N6971A Advanced Power System – DC Power Supply, 20 V, 100 A, 2000 W

The Keysight N6971A Advanced Power System is a 2000 W DC power supply delivering 0–20 VDC at 0–100 A for automated test equipment applications demanding high speed and precision. Built on Keysight's VersaPower architecture, the N6971A accelerates test throughput by up to 100x compared to standard power supplies while maintaining DMM-like measurement accuracy across voltage and current channels. Command processing completes in under 2 ms, with programming transitions in 3 ms - or 0.5 ms per transition with Option 303 Source & Speed Enhancements.

Transient settling time reaches 100 µs, enabling rapid load step response. The 18-bit measurement resolution captures voltage and current with high fidelity, while 14-bit programming resolution ensures precise output control across the full 0–20 V and 0–100 A range.

Technical Specifications

• Output: 2000 W, 0–20 VDC, 0–100 A (single output)


• Measurement Resolution: 18-bit voltage and current; 14-bit programming resolution


• Command Processing: <2 ms response time


• Programming Speed: 3 ms nominal; 0.5 ms per transition with Option 303


• Transient Settling: 100 µs


• Measurement Rate: Adjustable to balance speed and accuracy


• Input Power: 100–240 VAC


• Rack Space: 2U (426.9 mm W × 88.1 mm H × 633.2 mm D); 15.5 kg

Key Features

• Dual voltage and current measurement with DMM-grade accuracy


• Integrated power, peak power, watt-hour, and amp-hour measurement functions


• Two-quadrant operation: 10% negative current standard; full ±100 A sinking capability with N7909A dissipater unit


• Programmable positive and negative current limits and waveforms


• GPIB (IEEE-488), LAN (LXI-Core), and USB interfaces


• Optional 301 Accuracy Package for improved programming and measurement precision with seamless dual-range current measurement


• Optional 302 Measurement Enhancements including external data logging and programmable digitizers for voltage and current


• VersaPower Architecture for integrated power delivery


• APS Power Assistant Software included

Typical Applications Aerospace, defense, automotive, and renewable energy test environments requiring fast transient response, precise measurement, and regenerative energy handling.

Compatibility & Integration Standard GPIB, LAN, and USB connectivity enable integration into multi-instrument ATE systems. Supports both sourcing and sinking operation for battery charging, power storage, and bidirectional power flow applications.