Why is the TriaxM-TriaxM a Low Noise Cable?

Updated May 8, 2024

Reported In

Hardware

  • PXIe-4135
  • PXIe-4138
  • PXIe-4139
  • PXIe-4133
  • TriaxM-TriaxM

Issue Details

Some NI SMUs support the TriaxM-TriaxM cable as an accessory. Why is this cable considered low noise and what advantages does it have?

Solution

The cable is constructed in a unique way that reduces triboelectric noise. If an ordinary cable is moving or vibrating while working in the low current range (for example 10 nA), the triboelectric noise will be picked up in the current measurement, and possibly making the measurement unusable. Having a cable like this reduces this effect.

Additional Information

There is not a listed specification in this cable that corresponds to "low noise". The materials used have lower triboelectric coefficients, which makes the cable less susceptible to this sources of error.