Hardware–software platform for controlling Keithley 2400 series instruments

Oct 1, 2025·
Cătălin Creciunel
Cătălin Creciunel
Lead Developer
,
Catalin Cechin
,
Daniel Țîrche
,
Vladimir Ciobanu
· 1 min read
Abstract
This paper presents the development of a hardware–software platform designed for controlling and monitoring Keithley 2400 SourceMeter devices. The system uses a custom adapter based on ATmega328P and ESP32-C3 for GPIB (IEEE-488) to Wi-Fi conversion. Featuring a secure web interface with multi-level access, the platform enables real-time graphing, CSV logging, and remote operation in both potentiostatic and galvanostatic modes, bridging the gap between legacy laboratory equipment and modern IoT infrastructure.
Type
Publication
Tehnologii fizice avansate cu aplicarea UVS în monitorizarea şi modelarea factorilor de mediu
publications

Project Architecture

The core innovation lies in the hybrid hardware approach, combining low-level deterministic control with high-level network management.

Hardware Layer

  • Signal Conversion: ATmega328P handles the precise timing required for serial–parallel conversion to the GPIB (IEEE-488) standard.
  • Network Stack: ESP32-C3 manages Wi-Fi connectivity, secure authentication, and the web server.

Software & Security

The platform provides a modern dashboard for legacy hardware:

  1. Remote Control: Full access to SourceMeter parameters from any authorized device.
  2. Measurement Modes: Automatic switching between multimeter and programmable source (potentiostatic/galvanostatic).
  3. Security: Implementation of unique authentication tokens and IP-based restriction to prevent unauthorized instrument access.

Applications

The platform has been validated in stability tests for:

  • Electrochemical characterization.
  • Automated semiconductor testing.
  • Remote laboratory education.
Keithley 2400 GPIB IEEE-488 ESP32-C3 IoT Laboratory Automation Embedded Systems
Cătălin Creciunel
Authors
Cătălin Creciunel (he/him)
Research Scientist & Embedded Systems Engineer
Cătălin Creciunel is a graduate of the Technical University of Moldova, specializing in microelectronics and nanotechnology. With over 5 years of experience as a Research Scientist, he has developed innovative solutions for semiconductor materials including ZnO, GaP, and InP through thermal treatment and anodization techniques. His expertise spans embedded software development in Python and C/C++, hardware design using CAD tools, and nanotechnology research including semiconductor and composite nanofiber production. Cătălin is dedicated to advancing technology through continuous learning and innovative contributions to microelectronics and embedded systems.