The AIM TTi SMU4000 family are compact source measurement units (SMUs) rated for 25 watts. One model handles up to 21 volts, while another does 21 and 210 volts. Both can source or sink up to 3.15 amps. Using a technology called PowerFlex, this power rating is usable across most of the SMU4000's range. This video also shows how it can act as a voltmeter and ohmmeter and measure the leakage current of a capacitor.
Watch the Aim-TTi SMU4000 Family Review Video
The AIM TTI SMU4001 is a powerful instrument that combines a bench power supply, electronic load, and high-precision digital multi-meter. James demonstrates the unit's capabilities and takes a few measurements.
There are two AIM TTI SMU4000 models available. Each offers 25 watts. The difference is their maximum voltage rating. One model (SMU4001) supports up to 21 volts, while the other (SMU4201) can reach up to 210 volts. Besides the extended voltage range, the two units have the same capabilities and features.
The first thing James noticed about the SMU4001 was its size. Despite its multi-functionality, it is the same size as a typical benchtop multimeter or switching bench supply. (These units are half a rack width and 2U tall.) The front panel features 4-wire inputs, a control knob, and a touch screen, which simplifies navigation and operation. The touch screen is especially user-friendly, making it easier to adjust settings compared to just the knob alone.
James shows the remote/automation ports, a digital IO port, and rear voltage/sense terminals on the back of the SMU4001. The rear terminals feature a convenient push-and-release mechanism, reducing the risk of losing adapters—something James has encountered with other instruments.
As a source, the SMU4001 can output up to 25 watts, with a current limit of 3.15 amps and a voltage range of up to 21 volts. This capability is maintained across most of its voltage range, ensuring consistent performance regardless of the specific output settings. AIM TTi calls this capability PowerFlex. The SMU4001 also features an adjustable slew rate, allowing for fine-tuning of the response time to suit various applications. Additionally, the SMU4001 offers a high reactance load stability option, ideal for working with reactive loads such as motors or large capacitors. James demonstrates how the high reactance mode affects a large (4700 uF) capacitor.
In load mode, the SMU4001 can operate in constant current, resistance, or power mode and can sink up to 3.15 amps. This capability makes it an excellent tool for tasks like measuring battery capacity. James demonstrates this by discharging a 350 milliamp-hour LiPo battery at 525 milliamps until it reaches a cutoff voltage of 3 volts. This measurement takes about 29 minutes to complete, meaning the battery provides about 262 mAh under these conditions. However, James noted that he had to manually calculate the capacity since no "energy" measurement was available.
The SMU4001's measurement capabilities are comparable to those of a high-end bench DMM, offering voltage, current, and resistance modes. Additionally, the SMU4001 includes advanced measurements such as insulation resistance and leakage current, which is particularly useful when testing passive components like capacitors. For example, a ceramic capacitor might show an insulation resistance in the range of hundreds of megaohms, while an electrolytic capacitor, being more leaky, would have a lower insulation resistance.
The SMU-Link accessory allows two SMU4001 units to be connected, effectively creating a two-channel instrument. This setup is ideal for characterizing active devices like MOSFETs, where one unit controls the gate, and the other monitors the drain.
In conclusion, James found the AIM-TTI SMU4001 to be a versatile, powerful SMU that combines the functions of a power supply, electronic load, and digital multimeter in a compact package. Its ability to maintain full power across a wide voltage range, coupled with features like adjustable slew rate and high reactance mode, makes it a powerful tool in any lab. Whether characterizing components, measuring battery capacity, or simulating device loads, the SMU4001 provides the precision and functionality needed for accurate and reliable results.
Where to Buy Aim-TTi Source Meters
| Product Name | Manufacturer | Quantity | Buy Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMU4001 - 21V Source Meter / Unit, 1 Channels, SMU4000 Series, Current/Voltage Measure, Current/Voltage Source | AIM TTI | 1 | Buy Now |
| SMU4201 - 21V, 210V, Source Meter / Unit, 1 Channels, SMU4000 Series, Current/Voltage Measure, Current/Voltage Source | AIM TTI | 1 | Buy Now |
