Whether you’re validating power integrity in cutting-edge FPGAs, performing TDP testing on server boards, or characterizing control loop stability, our family of load steppers offers high-performance options to meet your specific needs.
In this post, we’ll walk through:
- Our product lineup: S10, S50, and S2000
- How we quote for each
- The information we typically need from you
- Demo availability and common customer questions
Transient Load Stepper Product Family Overview
Picotest Load Steppers use our proprietary GaN-based switching to provide high-speed, high-current step loads for validating the performance of modern power delivery networks (PDNs). They are available in three versions:
| Model | Current Range | Type |
|---|---|---|
| S10 | <10A | Browser probe, open loop |
| S50 | <50A | Water-cooled, open/closed loop |
| S2000 | Up to 2047A | Custom load board, open/closed loop |
How to Request a Quote
For S10 and S50 Probes:
The S10 and S50 are factory-configured at time of order based on your target rail voltage and required current step sizes. To generate a quote, we’ll need:
- Your power rail voltage
- Desired step current (S10: up to 10A / S50: up to 50A total)
- For S50: Six (6) current step values, each corresponding to one of six switch channels
If you’re interested in the S50 closed-loop version, just let us know — it’s not listed online but available on request at approximately the same cost (~$8,500).
For the S2000 Custom Load Stepper:
This is a fully customized solution typically replacing an ASIC or FPGA in your system. Pricing ranges from $20,000 to $40,000, depending on the level of customization, number of boards, and accessories.
To begin a quote, please provide:
- Open or closed-loop control preference
- Output voltage(s)
- Maximum peak and average current
- Step resolution requirements
- Socket size or mechanical fit details
- Number of load boards needed
- Who is supplying the cooling solution (air, water, refrigerated)
Product Details & Ordering Information
S10 Transient Load Probe
- Style: Handheld browser probe
- Peak Current: Up to 10A
- Duty Cycle: <1%
- Price: $2,750
- Learn more ➜
Great for quick rail-by-rail measurements in tight spaces. You define the step current and voltage; we set the resistance internally.
S50 Water-Cooled Load Probe
- Peak & Average Current: Up to 50A
- Duty Cycle: 100%
- Price: $8,500
- Learn more ➜
Includes 6-bit control for custom current steps and comes with signal breakout boards. Fast rise/fall times (<10ns) with robust cooling.
S2000 Custom Load Board
- Peak Current: Up to 2047A
- Full 100% Duty Cycle
- Digital Control: 11-bit resolution at 50MSPS
- Cooling: Water or refrigerated
- Price: $20,000 – $40,000 depending on configuration
This high-performance option is designed specifically for your application, whether embedded directly or via custom connectors.
Demo available! Ask us about a demo unit for the S2000 and check out the 1500A Load Transient Demo Board PDF for more details.
Common Questions We Get
Can I demo a stepper before purchasing?
Yes! S2000 demo units are available. Let us know, and we’ll arrange a trial.
Can I change the current step later?
No, for the S10 and S50, resistances are fixed at the time of purchase. For flexibility, consider the S50 closed-loop option.
Are there other low-current steppers?
Yes — check out our:
- J2111A: 100mA, 20ns step
- J2112A: 1A, 20ns step
Learn More About Load Step Testing
- Video Overview: See the stepper in action
- Voltage Regulator Stability Article
- 2000A PDN Design Challenges (DesignCon)
Behind the Tech
Picotest’s step loaders overcome limitations of traditional electronic loads by:
- Eliminating excessive capacitance
- Delivering sub-nanosecond edge rates (<500ps)
- Achieving up to 2000W average power
- Minimizing interconnect inductance for high-fidelity testing
These tools are built to stress-test modern power delivery systems in AI, Big Data, graphics, and server environments — giving engineers the insight they need to design stable, high-performance systems.
Ready for a Quote?
Contact us today with your application requirements. Whether you need a handheld tool for a 10A rail or a 2000A monster for your next-gen processor board, we’re here to help you validate it — fast and accurately.
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