The video addresses a significant ergonomic challenge with the presenter's primary bench power supply, a Rigol DP832A, specifically its LCD screen's poor readability from a top-down viewing angle, making crucial "set" values difficult to discern. To resolve this, the presenter acquires a Keithley 2231A-30-3 triple-output power supply. This new unit is praised for its highly readable vacuum fluorescent display (VFD) and superior features, including fully isolated channels, precise output capabilities (30V/3A per channel, 5V/3A), low noise, and advanced programmability like output sequencing and multiple memory stores. The acquisition leads to plans for a comprehensive rearrangement of the workbench to optimize the placement of frequently used instruments.
Keithley 2231A-30-3: A Solution to Bench Power Supply Readability
0:00 The Problematic Rigol DP832A: The presenter highlights issues with his main bench power supply, the Rigol DP832A. While generally liked, its LCD screen is difficult to read from a top-down angle due to glare and calibration for straight-on or below viewing. Small "set" numbers are particularly unreadable, causing significant frustration. Other minor dislikes include "gimmicky" circular numbers and a common ground between its three outputs.
2:23 The New Solution: Keithley 2231A-30-3: A Keithley 2231A-30-3 triple-output power supply is introduced as the replacement. It offers similar core functionality to the Rigol, providing two 0-30V/3A channels and one 0-5V/3A channel.
3:05 Superior Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD): The primary reason for the upgrade is the Keithley's vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), which offers perfect readability from any viewing angle, solving the critical issue with the Rigol.
3:36 Ergonomic Design: The Keithley features a well-designed keyboard, navigation arrows, and a control knob for easy adjustments.
4:12 Compact Footprint & Isolation: The Keithley is noted for being much smaller than the Rigol, saving valuable bench space. Crucially, its three output channels are fully isolated, a significant improvement over the Rigol's common ground.
4:22 Connectivity and Cost: It includes a TTL RS232 connection for PC control via USB adapters. Priced at $1200 new, the presenter acquired it on eBay for $550.
5:04 Bench Reorganization Plans: The new Keithley will become the main power supply, prompting a rearrangement of the workbench to place it and a frequently used Agilent HP 34401 DVM in more accessible positions.
6:07 Key Specifications and Features (Keithley 2231A-30-3):
195W triple-channel DC supply with all three channels totally isolated.
High accuracy: 0.06% for voltage settings, 2% for current.