Tektronix launches TAP1500L with 7-metre probe cable

The launch of the TAP1500L probe builds off the success of the company’s IsoVu Probe which has the ability to virtually eliminate common mode interference using optical isolation.

A modification to the existing TAP1500 active single-ended probe, this new version features a cable that is 5.7 meters longer than the original. The TAP1500L addresses a critical need for engineers: the ability to perform automated tests with greater flexibility and safety. Fitting for Flying Probe end-users and manufacturers, the device helps to effectively and safely conduct testing while allowing greater flexibility for customers to position test stations for unique needs, with no loss in performance. This probe is an investment from Tektronix in ensuring success of customers performing automated test.

Key features include:

• Extended cable length: The TAP1500L’s seven-meter long cable offers an additional one meter of cable length compared to comparable probes on the market. This is especially valuable for customers using flying probe testers, where extra length is often required because of the need to route probes through automated systems, and for any situation where the DUT needs to be further from the oscilloscope.
• Outstanding electrical performance: Even with the seven-meter cable, the TAP1500L offers ≥1.5GHz bandwidth, <267ps rise time, and ≤1pF input capacitance, ensuring accurate signal acquisition for high-speed designs.
• Versatile mechanical performance: The compact probe head allows probing of small geometry circuit elements, and device under test (DUT) attachment accessories enable connection to SMDs as small as 0.5mm pitch.
• Seamless integration: To ensure instrument ease-of-use and reliable data collection, the TAP1500L connects directly to oscilloscopes with the TekVPI probe interface, providing automatic and intuitive unit scaling and readout on the oscilloscope display. No additional amplifier or software support is required.

Andrew Mumford, Tektronix Probe Product Manager, emphasises the significance of this release, stating that, “With this extended cable length and the integration of automated testing features, the Tektronix TAP1500L was specifically designed to provide engineers greater freedom of movement. Our customers can’t always have their oscilloscopes close to their DUT, and the longer cable benefits customers who use flying probe testers that require long cables for routing through automated positioning systems.”

The Tektronix TAP1500L is available globally for applications in high-speed digital systems design, component characterisation, manufacturing engineering, educational research, and any application needing to measure signals with voltage swings up to 16V.