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Keithley Introduces the Series KUSB-3100 USB-based Data Acquisition Solutions

Cleveland, Ohio – March 17, 2005 - Keithley Instruments, Inc. (NYSE:KEI), a leader in solutions for emerging measurement needs, introduces the Series KUSB-3100 USB-based data acquisition (DAQ) measurement solutions. An alternative to ISA, PCI, and PCMCIA data-acquisition cards, these compact DAQ measurement tools offer easy installation with true plug-and-play capability and easier portability than plug-in cards affording greater measurement flexibility. Using USB as an interface for data acquisition lessens the dependence on PC motherboard technology where slots for plug-in boards are required. The Series KUSB-3100 consists of five different multi-function modules that cover a broad range of applications.

Easy Installation. The Series KUSB-3100 offers true USB 2.0 and 1.1 plug-and-play capability. Users can install a Series KUSB-3100 module without the need to crack open a PC to add a board, configure DIP switches and IRQ settings, or search for the correct device driver, then reboot the system. Units connect to USB ports on a PC via a standard, low-cost cable. The PC automatically identifies modules and installs the necessary software to operate the unit, greatly reducing start-up time.

Series KUSB-3100 modules can be installed or removed while the computer is running. Just plug in the device, use it, and unplug it when measurements are complete. There is no need to power down the PC.

Fast, Accurate, Low-Noise Measurements. Series KUSB-3100 DAQ modules offer lower noise sensitivity than PC plug-in boards, offering more accurate, quality measurements. Because USB cables are typically 1 to 5m long, I/O circuitry is located further away from electrically noisy computer motherboards and power supplies, and closer to the signals they will be measuring. Most Series KUSB-3100 modules provide a 500V isolation barrier from the PC, protecting both the computer and the input device from damage caused by voltage spikes, surges, or shorts. This built-in protection also prevents the computer operating system from shutting down, ensuring continuous operation.

All Series KUSB-3100 solutions support USB full-speed data rates, for data acquisition sampling rates as high as 100 kHz. Keithley’s top of the line solution, the Model KUSB-3116, is fully USB 2.0 compliant, providing functionality at the USB high-speed 480 Mbits/sec data transfer rate. The increased bandwidth lets customers perform multiple I/O operations simultaneously at throughput rates up to 500 kHz in each direction, similar to PCI measurement systems.

Series KUSB-3100 modules are powered directly from the USB port via the USB cable or through a simple connection to an external power source (Model KUSB-3116).

Wide Assortment of Modules. The Series KUSB-3100 consists of five different modules to cover a broad range of applications. The Model KUSB-3100 and Model KUSB-3102 feature 12-bit resolution and sample rates of 40kS/sec and 100kS/sec, respectively. Model KUSB-3108 and Model KUSB-3116 modules feature 16-bit resolution with sample speeds of 50kS/sec and 500kS/sec, respectively. These multi-function modules offer from 8 to 16 analog input channels, up to four analog output channels, 16 to 33 digital I/O lines, and up to five counter/timer inputs.

The Model KUSB-3160 is a multi-point digital I/O module featuring 96 digital lines for monitoring or control of high channel-count applications. Signal connectivity is made through a variety of means including built-in screw terminals, BNC connections, DB-37 connections, or mass termination connections, and is module dependent. These built-in connectors eliminate the need for additional accessories, such as cables and screw-terminal panels, which are normally required for ISA and PCI plug-in boards.

The Series KUSB-3100 modules are multifunction devices suitable for a wide range of applications. Modules can measure voltage, temperature, strain, and vibration and are capable of frequency and event counting and timing for applications in system automation, in-vehicle automotive testing, life science research, and educational teaching labs.

All KUSB-3100 Series modules come with a variety of software tools including Quickstart applications, visual programming tools and drivers, and support for LabVIEWTM and TestPointTM. Users can develop applications in Visual Basic and Visual C++ using the supplied ActiveX controls, while Microsoft C developers can use the supplied Software Development Kit (SDK) for writing applications for Windows 2000 or Windows XP.

Price and Availability. Series KUSB-3100 modules are priced as follows: Model KUSB-3100 at $349 (US), Model KUSB-3102 at $685 (US), Model KUSB-3108 at $1045 (US), Model KUSB-3116 at $2495 (US), and Model KUSB-3160 at $695(US). All Series KUSB-3100 modules carry a three-year warranty. Units are available from stock as of April 1, 2005.

For More Information. For more information on Keithley's Series KUSB-3100 data acquisition solutions and to view a short online product presentation, visit www.keithley.com/pr/012.html.

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