HP 6060A — Technical Overview
Concise summary: The HP 6060A is a 300 W single‑input DC electronic load designed for bench, R&D, and ATE use. It supports 0–60 A and 3–60 V operating ranges, offers CC/CV/CR operating modes, a programmable pulse/transient generator, and remote/GPIB control for automated test systems.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Maximum power | 300 W |
| Current range | 0–60 A |
| Voltage range | 3–60 V |
| Operating modes | CC, CV, CR |
| Transient/pulse | Programmable pulse generator (Hz–kHz range) |
| Remote interface | IEEE‑488 / GPIB; analog programming; trigger I/O |
| Front panel | LCD meters, keypad, nonvolatile settings |
Operating envelope and thermal behavior
- Power and derating: Rated 300 W maximum; continuous power capability is temperature dependent and the unit must be thermally derated above specified ambient limits. For sustained high‑power operation allow adequate ventilation and observe the derating curve.
- Low‑voltage limits: Current capability is reduced at low voltages; below the minimum rated input voltage the effective current and power capability fall off. Verify the DUT operating point when testing near the low‑voltage end.
- Cooling: Forced‑air cooling with variable fan speed; prolonged high‑power use increases internal temperature and may trigger thermal protection.
Performance, accuracy, and resolution
- Programming resolution: High‑resolution programming across ranges; the highest current range (60 A) uses coarse steps relative to lower ranges but still provides fine control suitable for most bench tasks.
- Accuracy and stability: Voltage and current programming and readback are specified with percentage‑of‑reading plus fixed offsets; readback stability is suitable for automated test sequences and calibration‑grade measurements when periodically calibrated.
- Noise and ripple: Low noise for DC loading applications; transient/pulse modes introduce controlled waveform content by design.