Model 508 | Current Pulse Generator

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Current Pulse Generator 508

Model 508 | Current Pulse Generator

The Model 508 is Berkeley Nucleonics’ most capable current pulse generator, delivering highly precise, repeatable current pulses for critical testing. Designed specifically for airbag deployment (squib detonation), pyrotechnic initiator testing, igniter triggering, and ballistics work, it combines advanced safety, adjustability, simple operation, and programmability for rapid ROI.

  • 2 or 4 independent channels (19″ 2U rackmount form factor)
  • Max current: up to 6 A (per channel)
  • Resolution: 100 ns
  • Accuracy: 20 ns
  • Jitter: 10 ns RMS
  • Built-in capabilities: Current sensing, resistance measurement, pre/post measurements
  • Firing modes: All-fire, no-fire, DC current, capacitor discharge, Bruceton, Neyer, high current
  • Advanced safety: Remote interlock, keyed enable switch, fires only when all criteria met

Ideal for reliable, safe, repeatable squib/initiator detonation and high-accuracy pyrotechnic testing. This unit sets the standard for precision firesets in automotive safety, aerospace, defense, and research applications.

Features
Specifications
Tech Resources
Media
Downloable Resources
Price List

Overview

Features
  • Channels: 2 or 4 Independent Channels
  • Resolution: 100 ns 
  • Accuracy: 20 ns
  • Jitter: 10 ns RMS 
  • Max Current: 6 Amps
  • Safety: Interlock and Operator Key
Applications
  • Current Generation
  • Explosive Testing
  • High Current Airbag (Squib) Testing
Features
  • 200 ns Timing Steps
  • 6 amps per Channel
  • 2 or 4 Channel Outputs
  • Benchtop or Rack Mount Design
  • Easy Programming Interface
  • TTL Sync output to T0
Advanced Features
  • Integrated 4-wire Resistance Measurement with Pre and Post-Testing features. (per channel)
  • * Ability to set the mean and upper/ lower limits to determine what construes a resistance fault
  • Current and Voltage Monitor Outputs.
  • Front and Rear Sync Outputs.
  • Safety features including Remote Interlock and Removable keyed enable switch.
  • RS232, USB, and optional Ethernet port for remote computer programming

Specifications

I/O Configuration
Output Modules 2 Output Channels
4 Output Channels
Trigger Inputs Front and Rear Trigger
Internal Rate Generator
Rate 0.01Hz to 100 kHz
Resolution 100 ns
Accuracy 20 ns
Jitter 10 ns RMS
Output Modes Single Pulse, Burst
Burst Mode 1 to 250 pulses
Control Modes Internal Rate Generator, External Trigger
External Trigger Inputs
Function Generate individual current pulses (single shot or burst)
Front or Rear Selectable between front or rear panel inputs
Rate DC to 1/(330ns+Longest active pulse)
Insertion Delay 330 ns
Jitter 10ns
Impedance 1kΩ
Slope Rising or Falling
Trigger Filter Filters out unwanted “glitch” or “runt” pulses
Pulse Width  0.02 us to 1 ms
Pulse Width Resolution 0.02 us
Trigger Level 2-15V
Trigger Threshold Resolution 100mV
Outputs
Amplitude 0.10 – 6A
Resolution 1mA
Accuracy 2mA Typical
Compliance Voltage Level 20V
Slew Rates
Rising Edge – Inductive
(Varies with Load)		 2A/ us @ 6A
1A/ us @ 3A
0.30A/ us @1A
(1 Ω and 50′ cable)
Falling Edge – Inductive
(Varies with Load)		 -1.60A/ us @6A
-0.90A/ us @3A
-0.30A/ us @1A
(1 ohm and 50′ cable)
Rising Edge – Resistive
Varies with Load)		 6.3A/ us @6A
9.5A/ us @3A
2.2A/ us @1A
(1 ohm & 2″ cable)
Falling Edge – Resistive
(Varies with Load)		 -5.2A/ us @6A
-4.0A/ us @3A
-1.3A/ us @1A
(1 ohm & 2″ cable)
Rise Time
Rising Edge – Inductive
Varies with Load)		 4us (1 Ω, 50′ cable, 6A)
Rising Edge – Resisitve
(Varies with Load)		 550ns (1 Ω, 2″ cable, 6A)
Pulse Width Range

5us – 100s*

(Maximum pulse width is limited by current amplitude. 1A can go up to 100 s and 6 A is limited to 300 ms.
Error ± 0.1%
Resolution 100 ns
Delay Range 0 to 1 secs
Error ± 0.1%
Resolution 100ns
Monitor Outputs
Voltage Monitor (Isolated) 1V/ V
Current Monitor 1V/A
Error < 4%
Bandwidth 150kHz
Resistance Measurement
Range 0.1 to 150 Ω
Resolution .01 Ω
Error .5 to 15 Ω < 4%
Error 16 to 150 Ω < 10 %
Measurement Current 100mA (max)
Sync Outputs
Front and Rear T0, Channels A through D
Safety
Remote Interlock Interlock
Arming Key Switch Removable key switch
Communication
RS232 115200, 57600, 38400, 19200, 9600, 4800 baud
USB Serial Bridge
Ethernet Option
Size
Size
19″ 2Ux10″ Rack Mount
Electrical
100/240V, 50-60Hz

Technical Resources

Model 508 Technical Note: Parallel Configuration for Increased Current Output
Model 508 Datasheet

Downloadable Resources

Downloadable resources such as datasheets, firmware, software, drivers and products manuals. Alternatively, you can browse resources directly by visiting our downloads page.

Media

Playlist

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