Differential Interface
Electrical Characterization, Equipment Accessories, Probe Station
Simplify Micromanipulator to SMU Connections
Plug-and-play connectivity for your micromanipulator probing setups
Specifications | Gallery | Measurement Configurations | Grounding | Related Products | Resources and Support
Simplify the complex task of your connecting SMA-connectorized micromanipulator probes and BNC-connectorized source measure unit for differential measurements. Eliminate the need for custom wiring and messy, unreliable connections, save valuable research time, and ensure consistent, high-quality measurements with our differential interface.
The robust interface is a compelling alternative for labs that value time efficiency, require a reliable and repeatable setup, or simply prefer a professional solution. Internally, the device routes the center pins of the A and B SMA inputs directly to the center pins of the respective BNC outputs to maintain a low-loss signal path.
Designed for seamless compatibility with up to three Ossila Micromanipulators and our Source Measure Unit, the differential interface provides a plug-and-play solution for the most common probing configurations.
Plug and Play
No soldering, crimping, or wire stripping
Time Saving
Simple connections for quick set up
Pre-Configured
For a reliable and robust interface
Specifications
| Case Material | Glass-reinforced Nylon |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 63 x 58 x 28 mm |
| Maximum Voltage (without cage) | 75 VDC, 50 VAC |
Measurement Configurations
The following measurement configurations show how the interface can be used to connect different device geometries while maintaining shielding and signal integrity.
Single Point (Unbalanced)
When using channel A or B individually, the coaxial cable shield is effectively terminated at the instrument’s BNC chassis ground. This provides necessary EMI shielding along the cable length.
Example Configuration: Single SMA to BNC conversion
- Connections: Connect SMA cable to Channel A
- Output: Direct BNC output from Channel A
Two-Point (Direct):
This configuration facilitates a direct SMA-to-BNC connection with a shared shield reference. It eliminates the need to manually splice coaxial cables. Manual splicing often introduces impedance mismatches and mechanical instability in sensitive setups.
Example Configuration: Current-Voltage (I-V) Measurement
- Connections: Connect ground electrode to COM Channel & active electrode to Channel A
- Output: I-V Sweep through BNC Channel A
Three-Point (Transistor Characterization)
The interface enables precise three-terminal device characterization, such as I-V sweeps of FETs with varying Gate-Source voltage.
Example Configuration: JFET Testing
- Connections: Connect Source to COM, Gate to Channel A, and Drain to Channel B
- Output: I-V Sweep through BNC Channel B, and gate voltage control through BNC Channel A
Grounding
The differential interface uses a common grounding scheme. The shields of all connected BNC and SMA cables are electrically continuous and referenced to a common point. This allows a third micromanipulator to serve as a ground reference through the COM port. By connecting a third probe to the COM port, the reference potential is distributed across the shields of the entire assembly.
Differential Interface Gallery
Note: Some photos include a previous case design with a blue nameplate. All versions shipped have an all-black case, as shown in the main product photo.
Related Products
Resources and Support
Connecting the Micromanipulator to the Source Measure Unit
Learn how to use your micromanipulator with the Ossila Source Measure Unit. Plus, pick up some general tips and tricks for getting the most out of sensitive electrical probing measurements.
Read more...
Demonstration: Differential Interface
Learn how to use the Differential Interface to simplify three-terminal device connections by performing a JFET characterization.
Read more...