Keithley 6487 Vs. Competitors: In-depth Comparison Of Specs, Performance, And Price

Keithley 6487 Information

The Keithley 6487 is a high-performance picoammeter/voltage source that combines the accuracy and sensitivity of a picoammeter with the versatility of a voltage source. It is ideal for a wide range of applications, including:

• Characterizing low-current devices
• Measuring leakage currents
• Testing battery life
• Performing impedance measurements
• Conducting research in physics, chemistry, and biology

The 6487 features a 10fA resolution, 1000 readings per second measurement speed, and 500V source. It also includes a number of advanced features, such as:

• Voltage sweeping
• Alternating Voltage resistance measurements
• Data logging
• Programming via GPIB, USB, or Ethernet

The 6487 is a compact and portable instrument that is easy to use. It comes with a built-in help system and a comprehensive manual.

Image of Keithley 6487

Full specifications

Specification	Value
Current range	20fA to 20mA
Voltage range	200μV to 505V
Resolution	10fA
Accuracy	±0.1% of reading + 1fA
Noise	0.01fA RMS
Measurement speed	Up to 1000 readings per second
Data logging	Up to 3000 readings
Programming	GPIB, USB, Ethernet
Dimensions	192 x 121 x 76 mm
Weight	1.5 kg

Features

• 10fA resolution
• 1000 readings per second measurement speed
• 500V source
• Voltage sweeping
• Alternating Voltage resistance measurements
• Data logging
• Programming via GPIB, USB, or Ethernet
• Built-in help system
• Comprehensive manual

What's in the box

• Keithley 6487 picoammeter/voltage source
• Power supply
• Instruction manual
• Software CD
• Warranty card

The Keithley 6487 is a powerful and versatile instrument that is ideal for a wide range of applications. It is a valuable tool for engineers, scientists, and researchers who need to measure low currents and voltages.

Keithley 6487 Compare with Similar Item

a table comparing the Keithley 6487 with two similar items: the Keithley 6485 and the Keysight B2902A:

Feature	Keithley 6487	Keithley 6485	Keysight B2902A
Current range	20fA to 20mA	10fA to 10mA	1fA to 10mA
Voltage range	200μV to 505V	200μV to 100V	200μV to 100V
Autoranging	Yes	Yes	Yes
Maximum measurement speed	1000 readings/second	100 readings/second	1000 readings/second
Source voltage	200μV to 505V	200μV to 100V	200μV to 100V
Display	3.5" color LCD	2.4" monochrome LCD	3.5" color LCD
Weight	1.5kg	1.2kg	1.8kg
Price	$1,995	$1,595	$2,495

As you can see, the Keithley 6487 is the most versatile of the three instruments, with the widest current and voltage ranges, the fastest measurement speed, and the ability to source voltage. However, it is also the most expensive. The Keithley 6485 is a good option if you need a high-precision picoammeter but don't need the full range of features of the 6487. The Keysight B2902A is a good option if you need a budget-friendly picoammeter with a wide current range.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Keithley 6487 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The Keithley 6487 is a high-performance, general-purpose digital multimeter (DMM) that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It is well-suited for a variety of applications, including electrical testing, troubleshooting, and research.

Pros:

• The Keithley 6487 has a large, bright display that makes it easy to read measurements.
• It has a wide range of measurement functions, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and frequency.
• It is accurate and reliable, with a stated accuracy of ±0.002%.
• It is easy to use, with a user-friendly interface.
• It is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand harsh environments.

Cons:

• The Keithley 6487 is relatively expensive.
• It is not as portable as some other DMMs.
• It does not have some of the advanced features that are available on some other DMMs, such as Bluetooth connectivity or a built-in scope.

User Reviews:

• Positive: "The Keithley 6487 is an excellent DMM. It is accurate, reliable, and easy to use. I would highly recommend it to anyone who needs a high-performance DMM."
• Negative: "The Keithley 6487 is expensive. It is also not as portable as some other DMMs. However, I think the performance and features make it worth the price."

My Thoughts:

The Keithley 6487 is a great DMM for anyone who needs a high-performance, general-purpose meter. It is accurate, reliable, and easy to use. However, it is also relatively expensive and not as portable as some other DMMs. If you need a high-performance DMM that can withstand harsh environments and provide accurate measurements, the Keithley 6487 is a great option. However, if you are looking for a more portable DMM with a lower price tag, there are other options available.

Overall, the Keithley 6487 is a great DMM that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It is well-suited for a variety of applications, and it is built to last. However, it is relatively expensive and not as portable as some other DMMs.

Keithley 6487 Where To Buy

some places where you can buy a Keithley 6487 and spare parts:

• Direct from Keithley: Keithley is the manufacturer of the 6487, so you can buy it directly from their website. They have a variety of options, including new and used units, as well as spare parts.
• Walmart: Walmart is a large retailer that sells a variety of electronics, including the Keithley 6487. They usually have a good selection of new and used units, and their prices are often competitive.
• Amazon: Amazon is another large retailer that sells the Keithley 6487. They have a wide selection of units, both new and used, and their prices are often very competitive.
• Best Buy: Best Buy is a brick-and-mortar electronics retailer that also sells the Keithley 6487. They usually have a limited selection of units, but their prices are often competitive.
• Lowe's: Lowe's is a home improvement retailer that also sells the Keithley 6487. They usually have a limited selection of units, but their prices are often competitive.
• eBay: eBay is an online auction site where you can find a variety of Keithley 6487 units, both new and used. Prices on eBay can vary widely, so it's important to shop around.

I hope this helps!

Keithley 6487 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and solutions for the Keithley 6487:

Issue: The instrument is not responding to commands. Solution:

1. Check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in and turned on.
2. Check the instrument's front panel to make sure it is not in a "standby" mode.
3. If the instrument is still not responding, try restarting it.

Issue: The instrument is giving erratic readings. Solution:

1. Check the connections to the instrument to make sure they are secure.
2. Check the instrument's calibration to make sure it is up to date.
3. If the instrument is still giving erratic readings, try contacting Keithley technical support.

Issue: The instrument is displaying an error message. Solution:

1. Refer to the instrument's manual to find the meaning of the error message.
2. If you are unable to find the meaning of the error message, try contacting Keithley technical support.

Issue: The instrument is not performing as expected. Solution:

1. Refer to the instrument's manual to make sure you are using it correctly.
2. If you are still having problems, try contacting Keithley technical support.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting Keithley 6487 problems:

• Keep a log of the problems you are experiencing, as well as the steps you have taken to try to solve them. This will help Keithley technical support troubleshoot the problem more quickly.
• If you are able to reproduce the problem, record a video or take screenshots of the problem. This will also help Keithley technical support troubleshoot the problem more quickly.
• Contact Keithley technical support as soon as possible if you are having problems with your Keithley 6487. The sooner you contact them, the sooner they will be able to help you resolve the problem.

I hope this helps!