Agilent Technologies B1500A Training Manual page 23

SMU Block Diagram
Three Modes
COMMON
The source monitor unit (SMU) can function in three modes:
- Voltage source while monitoring current
- Current source while monitoring voltage
- Source common with no monitor
The SMUs on the B1500A can output V or I in constant, linear sweep, logarithmic sweep or pulsed
modes.
Constant V or I mode could be used for "spot" measurements or biases.
Swept output is used to trace a curve. A second SMU can be swept subordinately to measure a
"family of curves."
Pulsed mode is used during swept measurements to reduce the effects of thermal stress on the device
under test (DUT).
A
V Source Mode
Common Mode
I Source Mode
V
-
+
5-3
Output Switch
SMU
FORCE
Module 5
Basic Measurement