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Evaluating the current-voltage (IV) characteristics of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) requires the ability to output and measure both voltage and current. You can perform these measurements using a source / measure unit (SMU). A single-channel SMU is sufficient to test the basic IV parameters of an LED. Use two channels for optical tests, with one channel measuring photo diode current and the other driving the LED.
Protect your device by setting a limit on the voltage or current output and use pulsed measurements to prevent device self-heating from distorting measurement results. Also, consider implementing a 4-wire measurement scheme to overcome the voltage error caused by test lead residual resistance. Have one pair of leads forcing current and the other monitoring voltage to eliminate cable resistance effects by only measuring the voltage drop across the device-under-test. Four-wire measurements keep the voltage between sense points at the specified voltage, characterizing the device under specified measurement conditions.
How to Evaluate IV Characteristics of LEDs
Precision Source/Measure Unit, 2 ch, 100 fA Resolution, 210 V, 3 A DC/10.5 A Pulse
Maximum Voltage Per Output | 210 V |
Maximum Current per Output | 3.0 A (DC) or 10.5 A (Pulse) |
Supported Measurements |
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Max. Sampling Rate | 50 kSa/s |
Minimum Current Measurement Resolution | 100 fA |
How to Evaluate IV Characteristics of LEDs
Reduce ground-related errors and contact resistance through gold-plated flat tweezers and special gripping surfaces
Bandwidth | Null |
How to Evaluate IV Characteristics of LEDs
Easy Power Supply Control and Simplified Automation
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Hardware Connectivity |
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Additional resources for LED IV characterization
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