Agilent / Keysight E3631A Alternative: Triple Output DC Power Supply Comparison
The Agilent (now Keysight) E3631A is a legendary triple-output DC power supply. But as labs look to upgrade or expand, finding a modern, cost-effective replacement is critical. Discover how modern alternatives compare.
For decades, the Agilent E3631A (and its Keysight successor) has been the gold standard for triple-output programmable DC power supplies. Its iconic form factor, reliable linear regulation, and dual-tracking capabilities made it a staple on engineering benches worldwide.
However, with the original E3631A discontinued and modern equivalents carrying a premium price tag, many engineers and procurement managers are searching for a viable alternative. The eTM-DM series steps into this role, offering the same fundamental architecture—a linear, triple-output, programmable supply—at a fraction of the cost.
Head-to-Head Specification Comparison
| Feature | Agilent E3631A | eTM-3030DM (Alternative) |
|---|---|---|
| Topology | Linear | Linear |
| Output 1 (Logic) | 0 to 6V / 5A | 0 to 5V / 3A |
| Output 2 & 3 (Tracking) | 0 to ±25V / 1A | 0 to 30V / 3A (x2) |
| Ripple & Noise | < 0.35 mVrms | < 1 mVrms |
| Programming Resolution | 1mV / 1mA | 1mV / 0.1mA |
| Remote Interface | GPIB, RS-232 | USB, RS-232/485 |
| SCPI Support | Yes | Yes |
Why the Agilent E3631A is Legendary
- The ±25V Tracking Outputs: The E3631A was famous for its perfectly tracking ±25V outputs, which were ideal for powering bipolar operational amplifiers.
- GPIB Integration: In older automated test equipment (ATE) racks, GPIB (IEEE-488) was the standard, and the E3631A integrated flawlessly.
Why Choose the eTM-DM Series as a Replacement?
- More Power on Tracking Channels: While the E3631A offered ±25V at only 1A, the eTM-3030DM offers two independent 30V channels at 3A each. These can be easily configured in series to provide ±30V for op-amps, giving you significantly more current headroom.
- Modern Interfaces: GPIB is largely legacy. The eTM-DM series provides modern USB and RS-485 interfaces while maintaining full SCPI command compatibility for easy integration into LabVIEW or Python scripts.
- Higher Readback Precision: With 0.1mA current readback resolution, the eTM-DM series is better suited for modern, low-power electronics and IoT device profiling than the older 1mA resolution of the E3631A.
Looking for the E3631A Triple Output DC Power Supply User's Guide?
Many engineers searching for the E3631A triple output dc power supply user's guide are either trying to figure out its SCPI command set for automated testing or attempting to troubleshoot an aging, failing unit.
If your unit is failing, replacing it with a modern equivalent is often more cost-effective than repairing a discontinued model. Furthermore, the eTM-DM series supports standard SCPI commands. This means if you are reading the E3631A user's guide to write LabVIEW or Python scripts, your existing code will require minimal to no changes when migrating to our modern power supplies.
The Verdict
Replacing an Agilent E3631A doesn't mean you have to spend thousands of dollars on its direct modern equivalent. The eTM-DM series provides the same linear, low-noise performance, superior current capacity on the tracking channels, and modern USB/SCPI connectivity, making it the smartest upgrade path for educational labs, R&D benches, and production floors.