KEITHLEY 7001-172-01E Backplane Board

( Brand: Keithley ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 7001-172-01E ), ( Part Type: Board )

Review KEITHLEY Backplane Board

The **Keithley 7001-172-01E Backplane Board** is a high-performance, modular expansion module designed to enhance the functionality of the **Keithley 7001 Series Data Acquisition System**, offering seamless integration for advanced measurement and automation applications. Engineered with precision and reliability in mind, this backplane board serves as the central hub for connecting up to **16 additional modules** including analog input/output, digital I/O, and specialized measurement devices within a single chassis. Its robust construction ensures stable signal routing and minimal noise interference, making it ideal for demanding environments where accuracy and repeatability are critical. The backplane features a **high-density, low-impedance design** with optimized trace routing to minimize signal degradation, while its **compatible PXI/PCIe form factor** allows for easy installation in existing test systems or standalone setups. Whether deployed in research laboratories, industrial process control, or automated test equipment (ATE) configurations, this backplane board delivers unmatched flexibility, enabling users to scale their measurement capabilities without compromising performance. Its **backward and forward compatibility** with a wide range of Keithley modules ensures seamless upgrades, while its **low-power consumption** and **compact footprint** make it a space-efficient solution for compact instrumentation setups. Built to withstand rigorous use, the backplane board incorporates **high-quality connectors and shielding** to protect sensitive signals from electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring clean, reliable data acquisition even in electrically noisy environments. With its **user-friendly design and robust build**, the Keithley 7001-172-01E Backplane Board is an indispensable component for engineers and scientists seeking a scalable, high-performance foundation for their data acquisition and control systems.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Keithley 7001-172-01E Backplane Board**

1. **Compatibility with Keithley 7001 Series Instruments** This backplane is specifically designed for use with Keithley 7001-series modules (e.g., 7002, 7003, 7004, etc.), ensuring seamless integration for high-precision measurements such as voltage, current, resistance, and temperature.

2. **Modular and Expandable System** The backplane allows for the addition of multiple modules, enabling users to configure a system tailored to their specific testing needs. This flexibility is ideal for research, manufacturing, or quality control applications.

3. **High Reliability and Durability** Keithley is a well-established brand in precision instrumentation, known for robust and long-lasting products. The backplane is built to handle continuous use in laboratory or industrial environments.

4. **GPIB (IEEE-488) Interface** The backplane supports GPIB communication, which is widely used in automated test systems. This allows for easy integration with computers, data acquisition systems, and other instrumentation via software control.

5. **Backward and Forward Compatibility** The 7001 series has been in use for decades, meaning there is a large existing user base, available documentation, and potential for second-hand modules, reducing long-term costs.

6. **Precision and Accuracy** Keithley instruments are known for their high measurement accuracy, making this backplane suitable for applications requiring strict adherence to specifications, such as semiconductor testing or scientific research.

7. **Support for Advanced Features** Some modules (e.g., 7004 for temperature measurement) expand the functionality of the system, allowing for multi-parameter testing without needing separate instruments.

8. **Ease of Use with Keithley Software** The backplane works seamlessly with Keithley s software suites (e.g., Keithley KUSB, LabVIEW drivers), simplifying programming and automation tasks.

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1. **Age of the Technology** The 7001 series is an older platform (introduced in the 1990s), which means it lacks modern interfaces like USB 3.0, Ethernet, or PCIe. This can be a limitation if you need faster data transfer or remote access capabilities.

2. **Limited Scalability for Future Needs** While the system is expandable, adding new modules may require purchasing older or discontinued parts. Newer Keithley platforms (e.g., 2700, 2450, or 2460 series) offer more modern features and interfaces.

3. **GPIB Dependency** GPIB is being phased out in favor of USB, Ethernet, or wireless interfaces. If your lab is moving toward more modern communication protocols, this backplane may become less practical over time.

4. **Potential for Higher Long-Term Costs** While the initial cost may be reasonable, replacing or upgrading modules could become expensive as parts age or become obsolete. Newer systems often have lower per-unit costs for modules.

5. **No Built-in Data Logging or Advanced Triggering** Unlike some modern DAQ systems, the 7001 backplane does not include built-in data logging or sophisticated triggering features. Users may need additional software or hardware to achieve advanced automation.

6. **Learning Curve for Older Software** If your team is unfamiliar with older Keithley software or GPIB programming, there may be a learning curve in setting up and troubleshooting the system.

7. **Physical Size and Cabling Complexity** The modular nature of the system requires careful cable management, and the physical size of the backplane and modules may be bulkier compared to modern, integrated solutions.

8. **Limited Support for Cloud or Remote Access** Unlike newer instruments with built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi, the 7001 system requires additional hardware (e.g., a GPIB-to-Ethernet converter) to enable remote access, adding complexity.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Keithley 7001-172-01E backplane board** is a reliable and capable choice for users who already have or plan to use Keithley 7001-series modules and require a modular, high-precision measurement system. It excels in environments where GPIB compatibility, long-term reliability, and precise analog measurements are critical. However, its age and lack of modern interfaces (USB, Ethernet) may make it less ideal for future-proofing or applications requiring high-speed data acquisition, remote monitoring, or cloud integration.

If your primary needs align with the strengths of the 7001 system such as in legacy test setups, research labs with existing infrastructure, or applications where GPIB is still standard then this backplane remains a solid investment. For newer projects or labs transitioning to more modern instrumentation, evaluating alternatives like the **Keithley 2700 Series** (with USB/Ethernet) or **Agilent/Keysight U1000 Series** (USB-based) may be more advantageous.

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### **Recommendation**

- You are maintaining or expanding an existing 7001-series system.

- Your workflow relies heavily on GPIB communication and you have no immediate need for USB/Ethernet.

- You prioritize precision, modularity, and long-term reliability over cutting-edge features.

- You have access to technical support or personnel familiar with older Keithley systems.

- You need faster data transfer, remote access, or cloud integration.

- Your budget allows for a more modern system with USB/Ethernet interfaces.

- You plan to scale the system significantly in the next few years, as newer platforms offer better long-term flexibility.

- Your team lacks experience with GPIB or older Keithley software.

For most new applications, investing in a newer platform (e.g., Keithley 2700, 2450, or 2460 series) would provide better future-proofing, ease of use, and compatibility with modern software and communication protocols. However, if you are committed to the 7001 ecosystem, the 7001-172-01E remains a dependable choice.

Details:

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part #: 700117201e price

• $150.00

specifications automationjack:

• brand: Keithley
• mpn: 7001-172-01e
• part type: Board

offer automationjack:

• options: Ship-to-home
• started: May 20, 2026
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock
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