The B&K Precision 1696B Series is a family of compact 200 W programmable DC power supplies comprising three models that share a common 200 W output envelope while differing in voltage and current range: the 1696B (1–20 V, 0–10 A), the 1697B (1–40 V, 0–5 A), and the 1698B (1–60 V, 0–3.3 A). Each unit combines a numeric keypad, rotary control knob, and dedicated V-set/I-set button for direct front-panel operation, with a back-lit LCD that simultaneously displays voltage, current, and power readings at 4-digit resolution.

The 1696B Series is suited to repetitive test routines in R&D, production testing, product evaluation, and education environments. The list mode (timed programming) capability supports up to 20 steps of programmed voltage, current, and duration — useful where the same stimulus sequence must be applied repeatedly to a device under test. Ten user-configurable voltage/current presets allow operators to recall common output combinations without re-entering values. Adjustable voltage and current limits provide an additional layer of protection against accidental over-stress of the DUT.

ValueTronics International has supplied test and measurement equipment since 1992 from our 20,000 square-foot secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive, Elgin, Illinois. Every instrument we sell is held, inspected, and functionally verified at this facility before it ships — we do not drop-ship from third-party warehouses, and we do not pass through inventory we have not physically handled. For the 1696B Series, that means each unit is power-cycled and its output behavior checked against the published B&K Precision specification before it leaves our dock.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The 1696B Series consists of three models sharing a common 200 W output power envelope, a common chassis, a common feature set (list mode, 10 preset memories, USB and RS485 control, OVP/OCP/OTP protection), and common programming/readback resolution. The models differ along a single design axis: how the 200 W output budget is divided between voltage range and current capacity.

Choosing between the three models reduces to one question — what voltage and current does the device under test require? The 1696B delivers the highest current (up to 10 A) at the lowest voltage ceiling (20 V). The 1698B delivers the highest voltage (up to 60 V) at the lowest current ceiling (3.3 A). The 1697B sits between the two.

Each new 1696B Series model below is offered as its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing. The links below take you to each individual model's page where current availability, condition grade (where applicable), and quote can be confirmed.

The 1696B is the highest-current member of the series, delivering up to 10 A across a 1–20 V range. Within the family it is the natural choice for testing devices whose current draw is the binding constraint — battery-charging circuits, low-voltage DC loads, and 12 V or 5 V powered designs at higher current.

The three models trade voltage range against current capacity within a fixed 200 W envelope. The 1696B's 20 V / 10 A pairing suits low-voltage, higher-current applications. The 1697B's 40 V / 5 A pairing is a balanced middle option suited to mixed bench work where both moderate voltage and moderate current are needed. The 1698B's 60 V / 3.3 A pairing suits higher-voltage, lower-current device characterization where the 40 V ceiling of the 1697B would be limiting.

The comparison table below summarizes the voltage range, current range, and load regulation difference (the 1698B specifies ≤100 mV voltage load regulation, half the ≤200 mV figure of the 1696B and 1697B) so the correct model can be selected against the DUT's actual voltage and current requirements.

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Accessories Supplied

• PC software
• RS485 adapter
• USB cable
• Test report

Product Core & Specifications

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.