Agilent Technologies TV Cables N3280A User Manual

USER’S GUIDE

Agilent Technologies

Model N3280A

Component Test DC Source

5ꢀ

Agilent Part No. 5964-8248

Microfiche No. 5964-8249

June, 2001

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Safety Summary

The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation of this instrument.

Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety

standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Agilent Technologies assumes no liability

for the customer's failure to comply with these requirements.

GENERAL

This product is a Safety Class 1 instrument (provided with a protective earth terminal). The protective features of

this product may be impaired if it is used in a manner not specified in the operation instructions.

Any LEDs used in this product are Class 1 LEDs as per IEC 825-1.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

This instrument is intended for indoor use in an installation category II, pollution degree 2 environment. It is

designed to operate at a maximum relative humidity of 95% and at altitudes of up to 4500 meters. Refer to the

specifications tables for the ac mains voltage requirements and ambient operating temperature range.

BEFORE APPLYING POWER

Verify that the product is set to match the available line voltage, the correct fuse is installed, and all safety

precautions are taken. Note the instrument's external markings described under "Safety Symbols".

GROUND THE INSTRUMENT

To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cover must be connected to an electrical ground. The

instrument must be connected to the ac power mains through a grounded power cable, with the ground wire firmly

connected to an electrical ground (safety ground) at the power outlet. Any interruption of the protective (grounding)

conductor or disconnection of the protective earth terminal will cause a potential shock hazard that could result in

personal injury.

ATTENTION: Un circuit de terre continu est essentiel en vue du fonctionnement sécuritaire de l'appareil.

Ne jamais mettre l'appareil en marche lorsque le conducteur de mise … la terre est d‚branch‚.

FUSES

Only fuses with the required rated current, voltage, and specified type (normal blow, time delay, etc.) should be

used. Do not use repaired fuses or short-circuited fuseholders. To do so could cause a shock or fire hazard.

Vous devrez impérativement utiliser des fusibles calibrés aux spécifications de courant, tension et type

(coupure, délai de coupure, etc ...). N'utilisez jamais de fusibles réparés et ne court-circuitez pas les supports

de fusibles. Sinon, vous risquez de provoquer un choc électrique ou un incendie.

DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE

Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.

DO NOT REMOVE THE INSTRUMENT COVER

Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Component replacement and internal adjustments must be

made only by qualified service personnel.

Instruments that appear damaged or defective should be made inoperative and secured against unintended

operation until they can be repaired by qualified service personnel.

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SAFETY SYMBOLS

Direct current

Alternating current

Both direct and alternating current

Three-phase alternating current

Earth (ground) terminal

Protective earth (ground) terminal

Frame or chassis terminal

Terminal is at earth potential. Used for measurement and control circuits designed to be

operated with one terminal at earth potential.

Terminal for Neutral conductor on permanently installed equipment

Terminal for Line conductor on permanently installed equipment

On (supply)

Off (supply)

Standby (supply). Units with this symbol are not completely disconnected from ac mains when

this switch is off. To completely disconnect the unit from ac mains, either disconnect the power

cord or have a qualified electrician install an external switch.

In position of a bi-stable push control

Out position of a bi-stable push control

Caution, risk of electric shock

Caution, hot surface

Caution (refer to accompanying documents)

The WARNING sign denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, practice, or the like,

which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury. Do not proceed

beyond a WARNING sign until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING

Caution

The CAUTION sign denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, or the like,

which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction of part

or all of the product. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION sign until the indicated conditions

are fully understood and met.

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Declaration Page

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and CEN/CENELEC EN 45014

Responsible Party

Alternate Manufacturing Site

Agilent Technologies

South Queensferry

West Lothian EH30 9TG

United Kingdom

Manufacturer’s Name:

Manufacturer’s Address:

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Power Products PGU

140 Green Pond Road

Rockaway, New Jersey 07866

U.S.A

declares that the product:

Product Name: Component Test dc Source

Model Number: N3280A

Product Options: This declaration covers all options of the above product(s).

Conforms with the following European Directives:

The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC

Directive 89/336/EEC (including 93/68/EEC) and carries the CE Marking accordingly

EMC information:

The product herewith complies with the requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC (including

93/68/EEC) and carries the CE Marking accordingly (European Union).

As detailed in

Assessed by:

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Certificate of Conformance No.TCF

CC/TCF/01/016 based on Technical Construction File (TCF) No. ANJ13, dated

8/03/2001

Celestica Ltd, Appointed Competent Body

Westfields House, West Avenue

Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent

Straffordshire, ST7 1TL

United Kingdom

Safety information:

The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and

carries the CE-marking accordingly

Supplemental information

The product conforms to the following safety standards:

IEC 1010-1:1990+A1+A2 / EN 61010-1:1993 +A2

UL 3111-1:1994

CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1:1993

March 19, 2001

Date

Hank Kowalla / Quality Manager at PPPGU

For further information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies sales office, agent or distributor.

Authorized EU-representative: Agilent Technologies Deutschland GmbH, Herrenberger Straβe 130, D71034

Böblingen, Germany

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Acoustic Noise Information

Herstellerbescheinigung

Diese Information steht im Zusammenhang mit den Anforderungen der

Maschinenläminformationsverordnung vom 18 Januar 1991.

* Schalldruckpegel Lp <70 dB(A)

* Am Arbeitsplatz

* Normaler Betrieb

* Nach EN 27779 (Typprüfung).

Manufacturer's Declaration

This statement is provided to comply with the requirements of the German Sound Emission Directive,

from 18 January 1991.

* Sound Pressure Lp <70 dB(A)

* At Operator Position

* Normal Operation

* According to EN 27779 (Type Test).

Printing History

The edition and current revision of this manual are indicated below. Reprints of this manual containing

minor corrections and updates may have the same printing date. Revised editions are identified by a new

printing date. A revised edition incorporates all new or corrected material since the previous printing

date.

Changes to the manual occurring between revisions are covered by change sheets shipped with the

manual. In some cases, the manual change applies only to specific instruments. Instructions provided on

the change sheet will indicate if a particular change applies only to certain instruments.

This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part

of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated into another language without the prior

consent of Agilent Technologies. The information contained in this document is subject to change

without notice.

Edition 1 March, 2001

Update 1 June, 2001

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Table of Contents

Warranty Information

Safety Summary

Declaration Page

Acoustic Noise Information

Printing History

Table of Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION

Document Orientation

Safety Considerations

Options and Accessories

Description

Remote Programming

Output Characteristics

Voltage Priority Operation

Current Priority Operation

Measurement Characteristics

Start of a Measurement

INSTALLATION

Inspection

Damage

Packaging Material

Additional Items

Cleaning

Location

Bench Operation

Rack Mounting

Power Connections

Connect the Power Cord

Output Connections

Outputs 1 - 4

Current Ratings

Voltage Drops and Lead Resistance

Coaxial Guard Connections

Maintaining Stability

OVP Considerations

External Trigger Connections

Computer Connections

GPIB Interface

GPIB Address

TURN-ON CHECKOUT

Front Panel Description

Checkout Procedure

In Case of Trouble

Selftest Error Messages

Runtime Error Messages

Line Fuse

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INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

External References

GPIB References

SCPI References

GPIB Capabilities of the DC Source

Introduction to SCPI

Conventions Used in This Guide

Types of SCPI Commands

Multiple Commands in a Message

Moving Among Subsystems

Including Common Commands

Using Queries

Types of SCPI Messages

The Message Unit

Channel List Parameter

Headers

Query Indicator

Message Unit Separator

Root Specifier

Message Terminator

SCPI Data Formats

Numerical Data Formats

Suffixes and Multipliers

Response Data Types

SCPI Command Completion

Using Device Clear

PROGRAMMING THE DC SOURCE

Introduction

Programming the Output

Power-on Initialization

Enabling the Output

Output Voltage

Overvoltage Protection

Output Current

Output Mode

Oscillation Protection

Triggering Output Changes

Output Trigger Model

Setting the Voltage and Current Trigger Levels

Enabling the Output Trigger System

Selecting the Output Trigger Source

Generating Output Triggers

Making Measurements

Average Measurements

Power Line Cycles

Measurement Samples and Time Interval

Current Ranges

Window Functions

Returning All Measurement Data From the Data Buffer

Triggered Measurements

Measurement Trigger Model

Enabling the Measurement Trigger System

Selecting the Measurement Trigger Source

Selecting the Sensing Function

Output Settling Delay

Generating Measurement Triggers

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Pre-trigger and Post-trigger Data Acquisition

Programming the Status Registers

Operation Status Group

Questionable Status Group

Standard Event Status Group

Status Byte Register

Determining the Cause of a Service Interrupt

Servicing Operation Status and Questionable Status Events

LANGUAGE DICTIONARY

Introduction

Subsystem Commands

Common Commands

Programming Parameters

SCPI Programming Commands - At a Glance

Calibration Commands

CALibrate:CURRent

CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive] CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit:NEGative

CALibrate:CURRent:MEASure

CALibrate:DATA

CALibrate:DATE

CALibrate:LEVel

CALibrate:PASSword

CALibrate:SAVE

CALibrate:STATe

CALibrate:VOLTage

Measurement Commands

FETCh:ARRay:CURRent? FETCh:ARRay:VOLTage?

FETCh:CURRent? FETCh:VOLTage?

MEASure:ARRay:CURRent? MEASure:ARRay:VOLTage?

MEASure:CURRent? MEASure:VOLTage?

SENSe:CURRent:RANGe

SENSe:FUNCtion

SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles

SENSe:SWEep:OFFSet:POINts

SENSe:SWEep:POINts

SENSe:SWEep:TINTerval

SENSe:WINDow

Output Commands

OUTPut

OUTPut:OSCProtect

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

[SOURce:]CURRent[:IMMediate] [SOURce:]CURRent:TRIGgered

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[:IMMediate] [SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:TRIGgered

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:BWIDth

[SOURce:]CURRent:MODE [SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:MODE

[SOURce:]DELay

[SOURce:]DELay:MODE

[SOURce:]FUNCtion:MODE

[SOURce:]VOLTage:ALC:BWIDth

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:IMMediate] [SOURce:]VOLTage:TRIGgered

[SOURce:]VOLTage:MODE

[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:STATe

Status Commands

STATus:OPERation[:EVENt]?

STATus:OPERation:CONDition?

STATus:OPERation:ENABle

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STATus:OPERation:NTR STATus:OPERation:PTR

STATus:PRESet

STATus:QUEStionable[:EVENt]?

STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition?

STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle

STATus:QUEStionable:NTR STATus:QUEStionable:PTR

System Commands

SYSTem:ERRor?

SYSTem:VERSion?

Trigger Commands

ABORt

INITiate:NAME

TRIGger:ACQuire

TRIGger:ACQuire:SOURce

TRIGger[:TRANsient]:SOURce

TRIGger[:TRANsient]

Common Commands

*CLS

*ESE

*ESR?

*IDN?

*OPC

*OPT?

*RST

*SRE

*STB?

*TRG

*TST?

*WAI

SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction

PERFORMANCE TESTS AND CALIBRATION

Introduction

Equipment Required

Performance & Verification Tests

Measurement Techniques

Electronic Load

Programming

Test Setup

Voltage Priority Tests

Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy

Positive Current Limit (+CL)

Negative Current Limit (-CL)

Current Priority Tests

Current Programming and Readback Accuracy

Load Effect Tests

Voltage Priority, Constant Voltage Load Effect

Voltage Priority, +Current Limit Load Effect

Voltage Priority, -Current Limit Load Effect Test

Current Priority Constant Current Test

Source Effect Tests

Voltage Priority, Constant Voltage Source Effect

Voltage Priority, +Current Limit Source Effect

Voltage Priority, -Current Limit Source Effect

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Current Priority, Constant Current Source Effect

Ripple and Noise Tests

Voltage Priority Ripple and Noise

Current Priority Ripple and Noise

Transient Response Tests

Voltage Priority, Transient Recovery Time

Current Priority Transient Recovery Time

Performance Test Equipment Form

Performance Test Record Form

Performing the Calibration Procedure

Enable Calibration Mode

Voltage Priority Mode Programming and Measurement Calibration

Negative Current Limit Calibration

Positive Current Limit Calibration

0.5A Range Current Measurement Calibration

15mA Range Current Measurement Calibration

Current Priority Mode Programming and 0.5mA Range Measurement Calibration

Saving the Calibration Constants

100

101

102

Changing the Calibration Password

Calibration Error Messages

ERROR MESSAGES

103

Error Number List

LINE VOLTAGE SELECTION

107

EARLIER VERSION OUTPUT CONNECTORS

Mating Connector Part Numbers

109

Rear Panel Pinout Assignments

109

INDEX

111

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General Information

Document Orientation

This manual describes the operation of the Agilent Model N3280A Component Test DC Source. Unless

otherwise noted, the unit will be referred to by the description "dc source" throughout this manual.

The following Getting Started Map is a general guide to the location of information in this manual. Refer

to the table of contents or index for a complete list of information.

Getting Started Map

Task

Where to find information

Chapter 1

General information

Capabilities and characteristics

Chapter 2

Installing the unit

Line connections

Load connections

Computer connections

Chapter 3

Checking out the unit

Verifying proper operation

Chapter 4

Using the programming interface

GPIB interface

Chapters 5 and 6

Programming the unit using SCPI commands

SCPI commands

SCPI programming examples

SCPI language dictionary

Appendix A

Appendix B

Specifications

Verifying and Calibrating the Unit

Safety Considerations

This dc source is a Safety Class 1 instrument, which means it has a protective earth terminal. That

terminal must be connected to earth ground through a power source equipped with a ground receptacle.

Refer to the Safety Summary page at the beginning of this guide for general safety information. Before

installation or operation, check the dc source and review this guide for safety warnings and instructions.

Safety warnings for specific procedures are located at appropriate places in the guide.

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1 - General Information

Options and Accessories

Table 1-1. Options

Option

100

220

Description

87−106 Vac, 47−63 Hz

191−233 Vac, 47−63 Hz

207−253 Vac, 47−63 Hz

Add instrument feet - for bench mounting (p/n 5041-9167)

Rack mount kit for two side-by-side N3280A units. Consists of:

Lock-link kit (p/n 5061-9694), Flange kit (p/n 5063-9212), Tie bracket (p/n 5002-1587)

Rack mount kit for one unit (p/n 5063-9240)

230

8ZL

AXS¹

1CM¹

¹Support rails are required when rack mounting units. Use E3663A support rails for Agilent rack cabinets. If you are

using non-Agilent rack cabinets, contact the rack manufacturer to obtain support rails for your cabinet.

Table 1-2. Accessories

Item

Part Number

GPIB cables 1.0 meter (3.3 ft)

2.0 meters (6.6 ft)

Agilent 10833A

Agilent 10833B

4.0 meters (13.2 ft)

Agilent 10833C

0.5 meters (1.6 ft)

Agilent 10833D

Rack mount with slide - for two side-by-side units

Rack mount with slide - for one unit

Order 5063-9255 and 1494-0015

Order 5063-9255, 1494-0015, and 5002-3999

Description

The Agilent Model N3280A Component Test DC Source is a quad output dc power supply designed to

simplify the testing of integrated circuits. It has the following key features and performance capabilities:

♦

High density – four isolated outputs in a 2U half-rack package

Four quadrant bipolar output

High programming and measurement accuracy (refer to Appendix A)

Active guard available for accurate current measurements

Solid-state output and sense terminal disconnect relays

High GPIB throughput

Additional features include:

♦

Positive and negative overvoltage protection shutdown

Over-temperature and oscillation protection

Programmable current limit in voltage priority mode

Remote Programming

NOTE:

With the exception of the power switch, there are no front panel controls for the Agilent

N3280A dc source. The N3280A can be controlled only with SCPI programming commands.

The dc source may be remotely programmed via the GPIB bus. GPIB programming is with SCPI

commands (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments), which make dc source programs

compatible with those of other GPIB instruments. Dc source status registers allow remote monitoring of a

wide variety of operating conditions. Refer to chapters 5 and 6 for more information.

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General Information - 1

Output Characteristics

Voltage Priority Operation

Each Agilent N3280A output is a four-quadrant bipolar dc source that can be operated in either voltage

or current priority mode. In voltage priority mode the output is controlled by a bi-polar constant voltage

feedback loop, which maintains the output voltage at its positive or negative programmed setting. The

output voltage will remain at its programmed setting as long as the load current remains within the

positive or negative current limit. A single positive value programs both the positive and negative current

limit.

Figure 1-1 shows the voltage priority operating characteristics of the dc source. The area in quadrants 1

and 3 shows the characteristics of the output when it is being operated as a source (sourcing power). The

area in quadrants 2 and 4 shows the characteristics of the output when it is being operated as a load

(sinking power).

Output

Voltage

Key

Sinking power

Sourcing power

Programmable

+ OV

+ 10.25V

-I limit

V setting

2 1

3 4

Output

Current

+I limit

- 10.25V

- 512.5mA

+ 512.5mA

- OV

Figure 1-1. Output Characteristic (Voltage Priority)

The heavy line illustrates the locus of possible operating points as a function of the output load, which

may be purely resistive, or possibly include external voltage or current sources. In voltage priority mode,

the constant voltage loop will regulate the output voltage as the load changes, unless the output current

attempts to exceed the current limit setting.

If this occurs, either the negative or the positive current limit loop will regulate the output current at the

programmed value. Either a CV (constant voltage), CL+ (positive current limit), or CL− (negative current

limit) status flag is set to indicate which loop is presently controlling the output.

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1 - General Information

If the output voltage exceeds either the positive or negative overvoltage set point, the output will shut

down and be disabled, automatically opening the output and sense relays. This leaves the output in a

high-impedance state.

The full 512.5 milliampere output current is available only in voltage priority mode. In this mode, the

output voltage should be programmed to the desired positive or negative value. A positive current limit

value should also be programmed. Note that the negative current limit tracks the positive current limit set

point. The output will regulate at the desired voltage level, provided that the current limit has been set

higher that the actual output current requirement of the external load. Note that if the current limit is set

to a value between zero and 75 µA, the actual current limit will be 75 µA. Thus, it is not possible to

program current limit values less than 75 µA in voltage priority mode. (This limitation does not apply in

current priority mode.)

Current Priority Operation

Each Agilent N3280A output is a four-quadrant bipolar dc source that can be operated in either voltage

or current priority mode. In current priority mode the output is controlled by a bi-polar constant current

feedback loop, which maintains the output current (source or sink) at its programmed setting. The output

current will remain at its programmed setting as long as the load voltage remains within the positive and

negative voltage limits. The voltage limits are not programmable and vary somewhat with the output

current. When the output current is zero, the voltage limits are typically 10.75 V.

Figure 1-2 shows the current priority operating characteristics of the dc source. The area in quadrants 1

and 3 shows the characteristics of the unit when it is being operated as a source (sourcing power). The

area in quadrants 2 and 4 shows the characteristics of the unit when it is being operated as a load (sinking

power).

Output

Voltage

Key

Sinking power

Sourcing power

Programmable

+ 12V

+ 10.75V

+V limit

+ 9.5V

+VL status set

I setting

2 1

3 4

Output

Current

- 9.5V

- 0.5125mA

-VL status set

- 10.75V

-V limit

- 12V

+ 0.5125mA

Figure 1-2. Output Characteristic (Current Priority)

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General Information - 1

The heavy line illustrates the locus of possible operating points as a function of the output load, which

may be purely resistive, or possibly include external voltage or current sources. In current priority mode,

the constant current loop will regulate the output current as the load changes, until the positive or

negative voltage limit is reached. A CC (constant current) status flag indicates when the current loop is

controlling the output.

If the output voltage reaches either the positive or negative voltage limit, the unit no longer operates in

constant current mode and the output current is no longer held constant. Instead, the output current is

limited at either the positive or negative voltage limit line. When the unit is sinking power, the output

voltage will continue to increase in the positive or negative direction as more current is forced into the

unit. Note that a VL+ (positive voltage limit) or VL− (negative voltage limit) status bit will be set to

The maximum current available in current priority mode is about 0.5 mA, which is ideal for testing

sensitive devices such as input diodes. In this mode, the output current must be programmed to the

desired positive or negative value. However, the positive and negative voltage limits are not

programmable, and vary with the actual output current as shown in the figure. The typical positive

voltage limit ranges from about 10.75V at no load to about 9.5V at full load. The typical negative voltage

limit ranges from about –10.75V to about –9.5V.

NOTE:

Overvoltage protection is not functional in current priority mode.

Measurement Characteristics

The N3280A uses a digitizing measurement system with a single timebase for all output channels. The

number of measurement samples and the sampling interval of the timebase can be explicitly programmed.

These values will apply to measurements taken on all outputs. For example, if simultaneous

measurements are made on four output channels and one of the three channels is set to one power line

cycle (PLC), then all three channels will be set to one power line cycle per measurement.

Conversely, each output channel of the N3280A has its own measurement buffer. This means that each

output can be configured to measure a different parameter (either voltage or current), and a different

current range. However, the number of measurement samples and sampling interval for each type of

measurement is the same for all channels.

There is one voltage measurement range and three current measurement ranges. The current range must

be selected explicitly. If a measured value exceeds the presently selected range, an error message is

returned. Voltage measurements and current measurements using the 0.5A or 15mA range can be made to

full accuracy using the default measurement sample (5 data points @30.4µs intervals = 152 µs). To

achieve full accuracy on the 0.5mA current range, a longer sampling interval of one power line cycle

(PLC) is required to filter out line noise. Thus, a full accuracy measurement on the 0.5mA current range

will typically take between 18 and 21.3 ms, depending on the line frequency.

Note that faster measurements using lower PLC values (<1) are only appropriate for loads that do not

draw currents with a significant noise component. If the load current is noisy, it may be necessary to

increase the sampling interval to provide additional filtering.

All voltage and current measurements return the average value of the samples taken. Measurements can

be made using either a Rectangular or Hanning window. The default Rectangular window is used on all

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1 - General Information

measurement ranges to make fast measurements. The Hanning window can be used to reduce errors

caused by other periodic noise sources, provided that the sample period is long enough to capture three or

more noise waveform cycles. Using a Hanning window will result in slower measurement speed.

Start of a Measurement

The dc source delays the start of a measurement until a previous output voltage or current change has

settled. When voltage or current settings are changed in either voltage priority or in current priority

mode, an internal timer is started that delays any subsequent measurements. At power-on or after *RST

this delay allows the output to settle to better than 0.1% of its final value. In voltage priority mode, the

final value is based on a 20 ohm load. In current priority mode, the final value is based on a short-circuit

load.

The settling delay can also be explicitly programmed. This may be required, for example, if the load

requires more or less delay than the representative load or if the measurement requires less accuracy.

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Installation

Inspection

Damage

When you receive your dc source, inspect it for any obvious damage that may have occurred during

shipment. If there is damage, notify the shipping carrier and the nearest Agilent Sales and Support Office

immediately. The list of Agilent Sales and Support Offices is at the back of this guide. Warranty

information is printed in the front of this guide.

Packaging Material

Until you have checked out the dc source, save the shipping carton and packing materials in case the unit

has to be returned. If you return the dc source for service, attach a tag identifying the owner's name and

address, the model number, and a brief description of the problem.

Additional Items

Table 2-1. Items Supplied

Item

Part Number

Description

Power Cord contact the nearest Agilent A power cord appropriate for your location.

Sales and Support Office

4 - Output

connectors

1253-4893

A 6-terminal connector plug for connecting the output,

sense, ground, and guard. The connector installs in the

back of the unit.

Trigger

connector

1252-8670

3-terminal digital plug for connecting the trigger input

signal. The connector installs in the back of the unit.

Line Fuse

2110-0638

2110-0773

3.15 AT (time delay) for 100/120 Vac operation

1.6 AT (time delay) for 220/230 Vac operation

User's Guide

5964-8248

This manual.

Cleaning

Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to clean the external case. Do NOT open the unit.

WARNING:

To prevent electric shock, unplug the unit before cleaning.

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2 - Installation

Location

Figure 2-1 gives the dimensions of your dc source. The dc source must be installed in a location that

allows enough space at the sides and back of the unit for adequate air circulation (see Bench Operation).

NOTE:

This dc source generates magnetic fields that may affect the operation of other

instruments. If your instrument is susceptible to operating magnetic fields, do not locate

it in the immediate vicinity of the dc source. Typically, at 5 millimeters from the dc

source, the electromagnetic field is less than 5 gauss. Many CRT’s, such as those used in

computer displays, are susceptible to magnetic fields much lower than 5 gauss. Check

susceptibility before mounting any display near the dc source.

Bench Operation

Do not block the fan exhaust at the rear of the unit.

A fan cools the dc source by drawing air in through the sides and exhausting it out the back. Minimum

clearances for bench operation are 1 inch (25 mm) along the sides.

Rack Mounting

The dc source can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack panel or cabinet. Table 1-1 documents the part

numbers for the various rack mounting options that are available for the dc source. Installation

instructions are included with each rack mount option.

NOTE:

Support rails or an instrument shelf is required when rack mounting units.

Figure 2-1. Outline Diagram

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Installation - 2

Power Connections

Connect the Power Cord

Connect the power cord to the IEC 320 connector on the rear of the unit. If the wrong power cord was

shipped with your unit, contact your nearest Agilent Sales and Support Office to obtain the correct cord

(refer to the list at the back of this guide).

Check the line voltage rating label on the back of the unit to make sure that it agrees with your ac mains

voltage. Refer to appendix E if the voltage at your site is different from the voltage indicated on the unit.

Figure 2-2 identifies all rear panel connections on the dc source.

Figure 2-2. Rear Panel Connectors and Switches

GPIB connector for computer connection.

Q GPIB

connector

A 3-terminal trigger input connector. Only the center and left-most

terminals are used.

R Trigger Connector

Switch to select GPIB address. Refer to the end of this chapter.

S Address Switch

Pin 1 = Active guard

Pin 2 = High sense

Pin 3 = High output

T Output

Connectors (4)

Pin 4 = Low output

Pin 5 = Low sense

Pin 6 = chassis ground connection

AC line cord is installed here. Also used to set the ac line voltage see

Appendix E.

U Line

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2 - Installation

Output Connections

Turn the unit off before connecting any wires.

Outputs 1 - 4

Disconnect the mating plug from the unit by pulling it straight back.

The output connectors (outputs 1-4) have a termination for the Hi and Lo output terminals, the Hi and Lo

sense terminals, a guard terminal, and an earth ground terminal (see figure 2-3). For proper operation of

the dc source, you must connect the Hi sense and Lo sense terminals to their respective high and low

monitoring points. Install the connector plug with its sense terminals connected before applying power to

the unit.

CAUTION:

Connect the sense leads carefully so that they do not become open-circuited. If the sense

leads are left unconnected or become open during operation, the dc source will revert to

a local sense mode using internal sense protect resistors. This will result in an incorrect

voltage being applied at the load terminals.

The 6-pin connector is removable and accepts wires sizes from AWG 28 to AWG 16. Insert the wire into

the wire terminal, then use a small, flat-bladed screwdriver to tighten the wire terminal. Agilent

Technologies does not recommend using wire sizes smaller than AWG 24. After you insert the mating

plug into the output connector, tighten the two locking screws to secure the connection.

OUTPUT 1

MATING PLUG

SHOWN

TIGHTEN SCREWS

Hsen Hi Lo Lsen

LOCKING SCREW

INSERT WIRES

TWIST LEADS

TWIST PAIR

Figure 2-3. Remote Sense Connections

Figure 2-4 shows how to connect remote sense and load leads when using a removable test fixture. For

best transient response and load regulation, keep the resistance and inductance as low as possible, as

illustrated in the figure. The addition of a low-leakage RC network may help improve output transient

response when the unit is operating in voltage priority mode.

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Installation - 2

OUTPUT 1

MATING PLUG

SHOWN

TIGHTEN SCREWS

LOCKING SCREW

Hsen Hi Lo Lsen

INSERT WIRES

TWIST LEADS

KEEP RESISTNCE AND

INDUCTANCE LOW.

USE TWISTED PAIR OR

SANDWICHED PCB TRACKS.

TWIST PAIR

FIXTURE

CONNECTIONS

ADDITION OF LOW-LEAKAGE

RC NETWORK MAY IMPROVE

TRANSIENT RESPONSE IN

VOLTAGE PRIORITY MODE.

Figure 2-4. Remote Sense Connections with Test Fixture

Current Ratings

The following table lists the characteristics of AWG (American Wire Gauge) copper wire for some

common wire sizes that can be accommodated in the output connectors.

Table 2-2. Ampacity and Resistance of Stranded Copper Conductors

AWG No.

Maximum Ampacity (in

Resistance (at 20 deg. C)

free air)

3.52

5.0

8.33

15.4

19.4

Ω/m

Ω/ft

0.0843

0.0531

0.0331

0.0210

0.0132

0.0257

0.0162

0.0101

0.00639

0.00402

Voltage Drops and Lead Resistance

To optimize the performance and transient response in your test system, please observe the following

guidelines:

♦

Twist the load leads together and keep them short. The shorter the leads, the better the performance.

Twist the sense leads together, but do not bundle the sense leads with the load leads.

For best performance, keep the total cable length to the load to about 5 meters (15 ft) or less.

The load wires must also be of a diameter large enough to avoid excessive voltage drops due to the

impedance of the wires. In general, if the wires are heavy enough to carry the maximum short circuit

current without overheating, excessive voltage drops will not be a problem.

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2 - Installation

NOTE:

Any voltage drop in the load leads must be subtracted from the full-scale voltage

available at the output terminals.

Coaxial Guard Connections

An active guard connection is available at the output connector. When the guard connection is extended

to a test fixture for example, it can be used to eliminate the effects of leakage current that can exist

between the Hi and Lo output terminals when testing high-impedance devices. In particular, the Hi output

terminal and the Hi sense terminal may benefit from guarding. In this way, any leakage current that is not

load current will be collected by the circuit and not be included in the output current measurement.

The guard connection is always enabled and provides a buffered voltage that is at approximately the

same potential as the Hi output terminal. The output impedance of the guard is approximately 2.1K

ohms.

If you are using tri-axial cables to extend the guard connection to the test fixture, use the center

connector for the Hi connection, the inner shield for the guard connection, and the outer shield as the Lo

connection (see figure 2-5).

OUTPUT 1

MATING PLUG

SHOWN

TIGHTEN SCREWS

Hsen Hi Lo Lsen

LOCKING SCREW

INSERT WIRES

TRIAXIAL CABLE

TEST FIXTURE

GUARD SHIELD

Figure 2-5. Guard Connections for Test Fixtures

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Installation - 2

Maintaining Stability

In voltage priority mode, the constant voltage loop has the following three compensation bandwidths:

30 kHz, 20 kHz; and 10 kHz

In current limit operation, only two compensation bandwidths are available:

30 kHz and 10 kHz

♦

If the output of your unit is being shut down by the oscillation protection circuit because of long load

wires or a high Q load impedance, you can reprogram the output compensation bandwidth to try and

eliminate the oscillation. As shipped from the factory, the compensation bandwidth is set to 30 kHz.

OVP Considerations

CAUTION:

Disabling the OVP protection circuit may cause excessive output voltages, such as can

occur if remote sense leads are shorted, to damage the equipment under test.

The dc source is shipped from the factory with its overvoltage protection circuit enabled. You can disable

the OVP circuit using the VOLTage:PROTection:STATe command as explained in chapter 6. The

overvoltage circuit automatically turns the output off and opens the output relays if the output voltage

exceeds +11.5V ( 0.3V) or −11.5V ( 0.3V)

External Trigger Connections

This rear panel connector has an external trigger input.

The trigger input pin is normally at a TTL high level. To generate a trigger, you can provide a negative-

going TTL signal to the trigger input, or momentarily connect a short (contact closure) from the trigger

input pin to the chassis ground pin on the trigger connector. In any case, the device that you use to

implement the trigger must be able to sink approximately 1mA.

The external trigger input can trigger both output voltage/current changes and output measurements.

Computer Connections

The dc source can be controlled through a GPIB interface.

GPIB Interface

Follow the GPIB card manufacturer's directions for card installation and software driver setup. Dc

sources may be connected to the GPIB interface in series configuration, star configuration, or a

combination of the two, provided the following rules are observed:

♦

The total number of devices including the GPIB interface card is no more than 15.

The total length of all cables used is no more than 2 meters times the number of devices connected

together, up to a maximum of 20 meters. (Refer to table 1-2 for a list of available GPIB cables.)

♦

Do not stack more than three connector blocks together on any GPIB connector.

Make sure all connectors are fully seated and the lock screws are firmly finger-tightened.

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2 - Installation

GPIB Address

Each dc source has its own GPIB bus address, which can be set using the rear panel Address switch. The

dc source is shipped with its GPIB address set to 5. Refer to the following table for additional address

switch positions.

4 3 2 1 0

Handle

Address = 5

Table 2-3. Settings for Power Module Configuration Switch

GPIB

Switch Setting

GPIB

Switch Setting

Address

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Turn-On Checkout

Front Panel Description

N3280A 10V, 0.5A

Component Test DC Source

Figure 3-1. Front Panel, Overall View

AC mains power switch.

Q Line

Switch

Unit indicators light to indicate the following operating conditions:

Power The dc source is turned on.

Active The dc source is addressed to talk or listen.

Error There is a message in the SCPI error queue.

R Unit

Indicators

Channel indicators light to indicate the following channel conditions:

S Channel

The specified output channel is enabled.

The specified output channel has entered protection mode due to:

Overtemperature,

Indicators

Prot

Overvoltage,

Oscillation protect, or

Power clear.

Query the status registers of the affected channel to determine which

protection feature is tripped.

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3 – Turn-On Checkout

Checkout Procedure

Successful tests in this chapter provide a high degree of confidence that your unit is operating properly.

Complete performance tests are given in Appendix B.

NOTE:

To perform the checkout procedure, you will need a computer with a GPIB interface.

You will also need a digital multimeter for making voltage and current measurements.

If you have not already done so, connect your unit to the computer's GPIB interface. Also connect the

power cord to the unit and plug it in.

Procedure

Explanation

Connect the Hi sense terminal to the Hi

terminal. Connect the Lo sense terminal to

the Lo terminal. Connect the voltage inputs

of the voltmeter across the Hi and Lo sense

terminals of output 1.

The external voltmeter is used to verify the output.

Turn the unit on. The unit undergoes a self-

test when you first turn it on.

During selftest, all indicators light simultaneously and then

light individually in a clockwise manner to test the

functionality of the display

Check that the fan is on.

You should be able to hear the fan and feel air coming from

the back of the unit.

Turn the output on.

Program "Output On, (@1)"

Program "Voltage 10, (@1)"

Check the voltmeter display to verify the voltage

programming.

Create a variable for a measurement.

Program "Measure:Voltage? (@1)"

Read the variable value.

Reads the voltage of output 1.

This should agree with the value displayed on the voltmeter.

Check the voltmeter display to verify the voltage

programming.

Program "Voltage -10, (@1)"

Reads the voltage of output 1.

This should agree with the value displayed on the voltmeter.

Program "Measure:Voltage? (@1)"

Read the variable value.

Turn the output off.

Program "Output Off, (@1)"

10. Connect the current measurement inputs of

the ammeter across Hi and Lo output

Use the ammeter to short the output of the unit and verify the

output current.

terminals of output 1. Observe polarity.

11.

12.

13.

Turn the output on.

Program "Output On, (@1)"

Program the unit for current priority mode.

Program "Function:Mode CURR, (@1)"

Program "Current 0.0005, (@1)"

14. Create a variable for a measurement.

Program "Measure:Current? (@1)"

Read the variable value.

Reads the current of output 1.

This should agree with the value displayed on the ammeter.

15.

Turn the output off.

Program "Output Off, (@1)"

Disconnect the multimeter.

16. Repeat steps 3 through 15 for outputs 2, 3,

and 4.

Substitute the channel that you are programming after the @

symbol. For example, if you are programming channel 2,

program "(@2)" in all commands.

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Turn-On Checkout - 3

In Case of Trouble

Dc source failure may occur during power-on selftest or during operation. Either the Error or the Prot

indicator on the front panel may be lit to indicate that a failure has occurred. If this occurs, turn the

power off and then back on to see if the error persists. If the error persists, the dc source requires service.

Selftest Error Messages

Error numbers and messages are read back with the SYSTem:ERRor? query. SYSTem:ERRor? returns

an NR1 and a string error message.

Table 3-1. Power-On Selftest Errors

Error No.

Error 0

Error 1

Error 2

Error 3

Error 4

Error 5

Error 10

Failed Test

No error

Output 1 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 2 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 3 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 4 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Non-volatile RAM CONFIG section checksum failed

RAM selftest

Runtime Error Messages

Appendix C lists other error messages that may appear at runtime.

Line Fuse

If the dc source appears "dead" with the Power LCD off and the fan is not running, check your ac mains

to be certain line voltage is being supplied to the dc source. Also check that the line module on the rear of

the unit is set to the correct voltage. If the ac mains is normal, the internal line fuse may be defective.

Refer to Appendix E and follow the procedure described in the appendix for accessing and replacing the

line fuse located inside the unit. Unless the line voltage setting is incorrect, do not change the line

voltage setting.

NOTE:

If the dc source has a defective fuse, replace it only once. If it fails again, the dc source

requires service.

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Introduction to Programming

External References

GPIB References

The most important GPIB documents are your controller programming manuals - BASIC, GPIB

Command Library for MS DOS, etc. Refer to these for all non-SCPI commands (for example: Local

Lockout). The following are two formal documents concerning the GPIB interface:

♦ ANSI/IEEE Std. 488.1-1987 IEEE Standard Digital Interface for Programmable Instrumentation.

Defines the technical details of the GPIB interface. While much of the information is beyond the

need of most programmers, it can serve to clarify terms used in this guide and in related documents.

♦ ANSI/IEEE Std. 488.2-1987 IEEE Standard Codes, Formats, Protocols, and Common Commands.

Recommended as a reference only if you intend to do fairly sophisticated programming. Helpful for

finding precise definitions of certain types of SCPI message formats, data types, or common

commands.

The above two documents are available from the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers),

345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA. The WEB address is www.ieee.org.

SCPI References

The following documents will assist you with programming in SCPI:

♦ Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments Volume 1, Syntax and Style

♦ Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments Volume 2, Command References

♦ Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments Volume 3, Data Interchange Format

♦ Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments Volume 4, Instrument Classes

To obtain a copy of the above documents, contact: Fred Bode, Executive Director, SCPI Consortium,

8380 Hercules Drive, Suite P3, Ls Mesa, CA 91942, USA

GPIB Capabilities of the DC Source

All dc source functions except for setting the GPIB address are programmable over the GPIB. The IEEE

488.2 capabilities of the dc source are listed in the Specifications table in Appendix A.

The dc source operates from an GPIB address that is set from the rear panel. To set the GPIB address, set

the Address switches on the rear panel (see chapter 2). The address can be set from 0 to 30.

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4 - Introduction to Programming

Introduction to SCPI

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is a programming language for controlling

instrument functions over the GPIB. SCPI is layered on top of the hardware-portion of IEEE 488.2. The

same SCPI commands and parameters control the same functions in different classes of instruments.

Conventions Used in This Guide

Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations. For example, <NR1>

indicates a specific form of numerical data.

Angle brackets

Vertical bar

Square Brackets

[

]

Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example, VOLT | CURR

indicates that either "VOLT" or "CURR" can be used as a parameter.

Items within square brackets are optional. The representation [SOURce:].

VOLTage means that SOURce: may be omitted.

Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more times. It is used

especially for showing arrays. The notation <A>{<,B>} shows that parameter "A"

must be entered, while parameter "B" may be omitted or may be entered one or

more times.

Braces

{

}

Items within parentheses are used in place of the usual parameter types to specify a

channel list. The notation (@1:3) specifies a channel list that includes channels 1,

2, and 3. The notation (@1,3) specifies a channel list that includes only channels 1

and 3.

Parentheses

(

)

Computer font is used to show program lines in text.

TRIGger:ACQuire:SOURce BUS shows a program line.

Computer font

Types of SCPI Commands

SCPI has two types of commands, common and subsystem.

♦ Common commands generally are not related to specific operation but to controlling overall dc

source functions, such as reset, status, and synchronization. All common commands consist of a

three-letter mnemonic preceded by an asterisk: *RST

*IDN?

*SRE 8

♦ Subsystem commands perform specific dc source functions. They are organized into an inverted tree

structure with the "root" at the top. The following figure shows a portion of a subsystem command

tree, from which you access the commands located along the various paths. You can see the complete

tree in Appendix. D.

ROOT

:OUTPut

[:STATe]

:OSCProtect

:PROTection

:OPERation

[:STATe]

:CLEar

:STATus

[:EVEN]?

:CONDition?

Figure 4-1. Partial Command Tree

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Introduction to Programming - 4

Multiple Commands in a Message

Multiple SCPI commands can be combined and sent as a single message with one message terminator.

There are two important considerations when sending several commands within a single message:

♦ Use a semicolon to separate commands within a message.

♦ There is an implied header path that affects how commands are interpreted by the dc source.

The header path can be thought of as a string that gets inserted before each command within a message.

For the first command in a message, the header path is a null string. For each subsequent command the

header path is defined as the characters that make up the headers of the previous command in the

message up to and including the last colon separator. An example of a message with two commands is:

OUTPut:STATe ON,(@1);PROTection:CLEar (@1)

which shows the use of the semicolon separating the two commands, and also illustrates the header path

concept. Note that with the second command, the leading header "OUTPut" was omitted because after

the "OUTPut:STATe ON" command, the header path was became defined as "OUTPut" and thus the

instrument interpreted the second command as:

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar (@1)

In fact, it would have been syntactically incorrect to include the "OUTP" explicitly in the second

command, since the result after combining it with the header path would be:

OUTPut:OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar (@1)

which is incorrect.

Moving Among Subsystems

In order to combine commands from different subsystems, you need to be able to reset the header path to

a null string within a message. You do this by beginning the command with a colon (:), which discards

any previous header path. For example, you could clear the output protection and check the status of the

Operation Condition register in one message by using a root specifier as follows:

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar(@1);:STATus:OPERation:CONDition?(@1)

The following message shows how to combine commands from different subsystems as well as within

the same subsystem:

VOLTage:LEVel 7.5,(@1);PROTection ON,(@1);:CURRent:LIMit 0.25,(@1)

Note the use of the optional header LEVel to maintain the correct path within the subsystems, and the use

of the root specifier to move between subsystems.

Including Common Commands

You can combine common commands with system commands in the same message. Treat the common

command as a message unit by separating it with a semicolon (the message unit separator). Common

commands do not affect the header path; you may insert them anywhere in the message.

VOLTage:TRIGgered 10,(@1);:INITiate:NAME TRAN;*TRG

OUTPut OFF,(@1);*RCL 2;OUTPut ON,(@1)

Using Queries

Observe the following precautions with queries:

♦ Add a blank space between the query indicator (?) and any subsequent parameter such as a channel.

♦ Set up the proper number of variables for the returned data.

♦ Read back all the results of a query before sending another command to the dc source. Otherwise a

Query Interrupted error will occur and the unreturned data will be lost.

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4 - Introduction to Programming

Types of SCPI Messages

There are two types of SCPI messages, program and response.

♦ A program message consists of one or more properly formatted SCPI commands sent from the

controller to the dc source. The message, which may be sent at any time, requests the dc source to

perform some action.

♦ A response message consists of data in a specific SCPI format sent from the dc source to the

controller. The dc source sends the message only when commanded by a program message "query."

Figure 4-2 illustrates the SCPI message structure.

Channel

Data

Message Unit

Query Indicator

Space

Keywords

VOLT : LEV 10 (@1) ; PROT ON, (@1) ; : CURR? (@1) <NL>

Keyword Separator

Message Unit Separators

Message Terminator

Root Specifier

Figure 4-2. Command Message Structure

The Message Unit

The simplest SCPI command is a single message unit consisting of a command header (or keyword)

followed by a message terminator. The message unit may include a parameter after the header. The

parameter can be numeric or a string.

ABORt<NL>

VOLTage 20<NL>

Channel List Parameter

The channel parameter is required to address one or more channels. It has the following syntax:

(@<channel> [,<channel>][,<channel>][,<channel>])

You can also specify a range of sequential channels using the following syntax:

<start_channel> : <end_channel>

For example, (@2) specifies channel 2 and (@1:3) specifies channels 1 through 3. The Agilent N3280A

only supports channels 1 through 4. A maximum of 4 channels may be specified through a combination

of single channels and ranges. Query and measurement channel lists are order-sensitive. Results are

returned in the order they are specified in the list.

NOTE:

When adding a channel list parameter to a query, you must include a space (white space)

between the query indicator (?) and the channel list parameter. Otherwise error –103,

Invalid separator will occur

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Introduction to Programming - 4

Headers

Headers, also referred to as keywords, are instructions recognized by the dc source. Headers may be

either in the long form or the short form. In the long form, the header is completely spelled out, such as

VOLTAGE, STATUS, and DELAY. In the short form, the header has only the first three or four letters,

such as VOLT, STAT, and DEL.

Query Indicator

Following a header with a question mark turns it into a query (VOLTage?, VOLTage:TRIGgered?). If a

query contains a parameter, place the query indicator at the end of the last header.

VOLTage:TRIGgered? MAX,(@1)

Message Unit Separator

When two or more message units are combined into a compound message, separate the units with a

semicolon.

STATus:OPERation?(@1);QUEStionable?(@1)

Root Specifier

When it precedes the first header of a message unit, the colon becomes the root specifier. It tells the

command parser that this is the root or the top node of the command tree.

Message Terminator

A terminator informs SCPI that it has reached the end of a message. Three permitted messages

terminators are:

♦ newline (<NL>), which is ASCII decimal 10 or hex 0A.

♦ end or identify (<END>)

♦ both of the above (<NL><END>).

In the examples of this guide, there is an assumed message terminator at the end of each message.

SCPI Data Formats

All data programmed to or returned from the dc source is ASCII. The data may be numerical or character

string.

Numerical Data Formats

Symbol

<NR1>

<NR2>

<NR3>

Response Formats

Digits with an implied decimal point assumed at the right of the least-significant digit. Examples: 273

Digits with an explicit decimal point. Example: .0273

Digits with an explicit decimal point and an exponent. Example: 2.73E+2

Parameter Formats

<Nrf>

Extended format that includes <NR1>, <NR2> and <NR3>. Examples: 273 273. 2.73E2

<Nrf+>

Expanded decimal format that includes <NRf> and MIN MAX. Examples: 273 273. 2.73E2

MAX. MIN and MAX are the minimum and maximum limit values that are implicit in the range

specification for the parameter.

<Bool>

Boolean Data. Example: 0 | 1 or ON | OFF

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4 - Introduction to Programming

Suffixes and Multipliers

Class

Current

Amplitude

Time

Suffix

Unit

Unit with Multiplier

MA (milliampere)

MV (millivolt)

ampere

volt

second

MS (millisecond)

Common Multipliers

1E3

1E-3

1E-6

kilo

milli

micro

Response Data Types

Character strings returned by query statements may take either of the following forms, depending on the

length of the returned string:

<CRD>

Character Response Data. Permits the return of character strings.

<AARD>

Arbitrary ASCII Response Data. Permits the return of undelimited 7-bit ASCII. This data type has an

implied message terminator.

<SRD>

String Response Data. Returns string parameters enclosed in double quotes.

SCPI Command Completion

SCPI commands sent to the dc source are processed either sequentially or in parallel. Sequential

commands finish execution before a subsequent command begins. Parallel commands allow other

commands to begin executing while the parallel command is still executing. Commands that affect

trigger actions are among the parallel commands.

Following is a list of parallel commands. A user should use some form of synchronization before

assuming that these commands have completed.

OUTPUT:STATE

VOLT

CURR

INITIATE

OUTPUT:PROTECTION:CLEAR

FUNC:MODE

CURR:LIM

VOLT:ALC:BWIDTH

NOTE:

The power supply already provides automatic source settling delay for the special case of

VOLT, CURR, or CURR:LIM followed by a measure query, so it is not necessary to use

*WAI before a measure if the only pending operations are in this group.

The *WAI, *OPC, and *OPC? common commands provide different ways of indicating when all

transmitted commands, including any parallel ones, have completed their operations. The syntax and

parameters for these commands are described in chapter 6. Some practical considerations for using these

commands are as follows:

*WAI

This prevents the dc source from processing subsequent commands until all pending

operations are completed.

*OPC?

This places a 1 in the Output Queue when all pending operations have completed.

Because it requires your program to read the returned value before executing the next

program statement, *OPC? can be used to cause the controller to wait for commands to

complete before proceeding with its program.

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Introduction to Programming - 4

*OPC

This sets the OPC status bit when all pending operations have completed. Since your

program can read this status bit on an interrupt basis, *OPC allows subsequent

commands to be executed.

NOTE:

The trigger subsystem must be in the Idle state for the status OPC bit to be true. As far

as triggers are concerned, OPC is false whenever the trigger subsystem is in the Initiated

state.

OUTPUT:STATE Example

OUTPUT:STATE ON starts a sequence of operations in the unit that closes the output and sense relays

and sets the output voltage and current at the user’s settings. It is often important to know when these

parallel operations are finished, so that the next step in a test sequence can be synchronized with the

completion of a power supply command.

Two types of synchronization are provided:

♦ External synchronization is required when the test system needs to control something other than the

power supply after the power supply has finished all previous sent commands. External

synchronization is provided by the *OPC? Query and the *OPC command. The *OPC? Query returns

the value 1 when all pending operations are completed. The GPIB will be held up waiting for the

response to the query until this occurs. The *OPC command will cause bit 0 of the standard event

status register to be set when all pending operations are completed. The controller can either poll for

this status bit or set up an SRQ when this occurs.

♦ Internal synchronization is required when the test system needs to change a power supply setting or

make a power supply internal measurement after the supply has finished all previous sent commands.

Internal synchronization is provided by the *WAI command. When the power supply receives the

*WAI command, it holds up processing of any further bus commands until all pending parallel

operations are completed. For example, the *WAI command can be used to make a current

measurement after an output on command has completed:

OUTPUT ON,(@1);*WAI;:MEAS:CURR 0.5,(@1)

Using Device Clear

You can send a device clear at any time abort a SCPI command that may be hanging up the GPIB

interface. The status registers, the error queue, and all configuration states are left unchanged when a

device clear message is received. Device clear performs the following actions:

♦ The input and output buffers of the dc source are cleared.

♦ The dc source is prepared to accept a new command string.

The following statement shows how to send a device clear over the GPIB interface using Agilent BASIC:

CLEAR 705

IEEE-488 Device Clear

The following statement shows how to send a device clear over the GPIB interface using the GPIB

command library for C or QuickBASIC:

IOCLEAR (705)

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Programming the DC Source

Introduction

This chapter contains examples on how to program your dc source. Simple examples show you how to

program:

K output voltage and current functions

K internal and external triggers

K measurement functions

K the status and protection functions

NOTE:

The examples in this chapter show which commands are used to perform a particular

function, but do not show the commands being used in any particular programming

environment.

Programming the Output

Power-on Initialization

When the dc source is first turned on, it wakes up with the output state set to OFF. In this state the

output voltage is set to 0. The following commands are given implicitly at power-on:

*RST

*CLS

*SRE 0

*ESE 0

STAT:PRES

*RST is a convenient way to program all parameters to a known state. Refer to the Common Commands

section in chapter 6 for a complete description of the above commands.

Enabling the Output

To enable all four outputs, use the command:

OUTP ON,(@1:4)

or OUTP ON,(@1,2,3,4)

To enable only outputs 1 and 3 use the command.

OUTP ON,(@1,3)

Output Voltage

The output voltage is controlled with the VOLTage command. To set all four outputs to 5 volts, use:

VOLT 5,(@1:4)

The maximum output voltage that can be programmed can be queried with:

VOLT? MAX,(@<channel list>)

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Overvoltage Protection

The dc source will turn off its output and open the output relays if the output voltage exceeds +11.5V

( 0.3V) or −11.5V ( 0.3V) when measured at the output terminals. Overvoltage protection is only

available when operating in voltage priority mode. It is enabled with:

VOLT:PROT:STAT<bool>,(@<channel list>)

where <bool> is the protection state (0 | OFF; 1 | ON).

CAUTION:

If overvoltage protection is disabled, the dc source or the equipment under test will not

be protected from excessive external voltages.

Output Current

When operating in voltage priority mode, the dc source has a programmable current limit, which applies

to both positive and negative output currents. The command to program the current limit is:

CURR:LIM <n>,(@<channel list>)

where <n> is the current limit in amperes.

If the load attempts to draw more current than the programmed limit, the output voltage is reduced to

keep the current within the limit.

To query the maximum output current limit that can be programmed, use:

CURR:LIM? MAX,(@<channel list>)

When operating in current priority mode, the dc source has a programmable output current. The

maximum output current that can be programmed in current priority mode is 0.5125 mA. The command

to program the current is:

CURR <n>,(@<channel list>)

To query the programmed output current setting for output 1, use:

CURR?,(@<channel list>)

Output Mode

You can program the unit to operate in either voltage priority or current priority mode. In voltage priority

mode the output is controlled by a constant voltage feedback loop, which maintains the output voltage at

its programmed setting. In current priority mode the output is controlled by the constant current feedback

loop, which maintains the output load or source current at its programmed setting.

Use the following command to configure the output mode:

FUNC:MODE <mode>,(@<channel list>)

where <mode> is the operating mode (VOLT | CURR)

NOTE:

If the output is on, changing the output mode will cause the output to turn OFF, cycle

modes, and then turn ON. Also, there is no interaction or coupling between modes.

Switching back and forth between modes does not change the programmed values.

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Programming the DC Source - 5

Oscillation Protection

Oscillation protection is a built in function that shuts down the output in about 10 milliseconds if a

persistent and severe oscillation condition is detected. Oscillation protection can be enabled or disabled

using the following command:

OUTP:OSCP <bool>,(@<channel list>) where <bool> is the protection state (0 | OFF | 1 | ON).

If the output of your unit is being shut down by the oscillation protection circuit, you can reprogram the

output compensation bandwidth to try and eliminate the oscillation. This can be especially effective if

capacitive loads or long load leads are causing the output to oscillate. You can program the output

compensation to operate in a lower bandwidth using the following command:

VOLT:ALC:BWID <n>,(@<channel list>) where <n> is one of 3 bands (30000 | 20000 | 10000)

If your unit is being operated in current limit, your can select from one of two compensation bands using

the following command:

CURR:LIM:BWID <n>,(@<channel list>) where <n> is one of 2 bands (30000 | 10000)

NOTE:

If the output is on, programming a different compensation band will cause the output to cycle

OFF, then ON.

Triggering Output Changes

The dc source has two independent trigger systems. One is used for triggering output changes, and the

other is used for triggering measurements. This section describes the output trigger system. The

measurement trigger system is described under "Triggering Measurements". Briefly, to generate an

output trigger:

Program the triggered output level (voltage, current , or current limit)

Set the triggered function mode to STEP

Initiate the trigger system

Output Trigger Model

Figure 5-1 is a model of the output trigger system. The rectangular boxes represent states. Arrows show

the transitions between states. Arrows are labeled with the event that causes the transition to occur.

ABOR

IDLE STATE

INITiate:NAME TRAN

INITIATED STATE

TRIGGER RECEIVED

OUTPUT CHANGES

*RST

Figure 5-1. Model of Output Trigger System

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Setting the Voltage and Current Trigger Levels

You can program a trigger level (or alternate value) that the output voltage, output current, or output

current limit function will go to when a trigger is received. To use the output trigger function, you must

first specify a voltage or current trigger level that the output will go to once a trigger signal is received.

Once you program a trigger level and then trigger the output, the output will stay at the triggered level

until the output is reprogrammed. Use the following commands to program an output trigger level:

VOLT:TRIG <n>,(@<channel list>)

CURR:TRIG <n>,(@<channel list>)

CURR:LIM:TRIG <n>,(@<channel list>)

Once you have specified which function that you want to trigger, you must then enable that function to

respond to trigger commands. Unless the function is enabled to respond to triggers, nothing will happen

even if you have programmed a trigger level for the function. Use the following commands to enable a

function to respond to triggers:

VOLT:MODE STEP,(@<channel list>)

CURR:MODE STEP,(@<channel list>)

CURR:LIM:MODE STEP,(@<channel list>)

In Step mode, the triggered value becomes the immediate value when the trigger is received. If the mode

is set to Fixed, nothing will happen when a trigger is received; the immediate value remains in effect.

Enabling the Output Trigger System

When the dc source is turned on, the trigger subsystem is in the idle state. In this state, the trigger system

is disabled, ignoring all triggers. Sending the following commands at any time returns the trigger system

to the idle state:

ABOR

*RST

The INITiate commands move the trigger system from the idle state to the initiated state. This enables

the dc source to receive triggers. To initiate the trigger system, use:

INIT:NAME TRAN

After a trigger is received and the action completes, the trigger system will return to the idle state. Thus it

will be necessary to enable the system each time a triggered action is desired.

Selecting the Output Trigger Source

The trigger system is waiting for a trigger signal in the initiated state. Before you generate a trigger, you

must select a trigger source.

To select GPIB bus triggers, use:

TRIG[:TRAN]:SOUR BUS

To select external triggers use:

TRIG[:TRAN]:SOUR EXT

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Programming the DC Source - 5

Generating Output Triggers

After you have specified the appropriate trigger source, you can generate triggers as follows:

Send one of the following commands over the GPIB:

TRIG:IMM (not affected by the trigger source setting)

*TRG

GPIB Triggers

an IEEE-488 Group Execute Trigger bus command

Provide a negative-going TTL signal to the trigger input.

EXTernal Triggers

When the trigger system enters the Output Change state upon receipt of a trigger (see figure 5-1), the

triggered functions are set to their programmed trigger levels. When the triggered actions are completed,

the trigger system returns to the Idle state.

Making Measurements

All measurements are performed by digitizing the instantaneous output voltage or current for a defined

number of samples and sample interval, storing the results in a buffer, and then calculating the average.

NOTE:

There is one measurement buffer for each output channel in the dc source. However,

only the following measurement parameters can be configured independently for each

channel: SENSe:FUNCtion, SENSe:CURRent:RANGe.

There are two ways to make measurements:

♦ Use the MEASure queries to immediately start acquiring new voltage or current data, and return

measurements from this data as soon as the buffer is full. This is the easiest way to make

measurements, since it requires no explicit trigger programming.

♦ Use a triggered measurement when you need to synchronize the data acquisition with a transition in

the output voltage or current. Then use the FETCh queries to return the measurement data. FETCh

queries do not trigger the acquisition of new measurement data, they only return the data that was

acquired by the trigger. Note that if you acquired voltage data, you can only fetch voltage data.

Average Measurements

To measure the average output voltage or current, use:

MEAS:VOLT? (@<channel list>)

MEAS:CURR? (@<channel list>)

Average voltage and current is measured by acquiring a number of readings at the selected time interval,

applying the selected window function to the readings, and averaging the readings. Windowing is a

signal conditioning process that reduces the error in average measurements made in the presence of

periodic signals and noise. Refer to the discussion of the Window functions later in this chapter and in

chapter 6. The power-on and *RST sample interval and sweep size settings yield a data acquisition time

of 152 microseconds per measurement (5 data points at 30.4µs intervals).

Ripple rejection is a function of the number of cycles of the ripple frequency contained in the acquisition

window. More cycles in the acquisition window results in better ripple rejection. The two methods of

increasing data acquisition time is to either increase the number of power line cycles, or increase the

number of measurement samples and the time interval between samples.

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Power Line Cycles

After a power-on or *RST, the dc source automatically makes measurements based on a 0.00912 power

line cycles (for 60 Hz line). This results in a default measurement sample of 5 points separated by 30.4

microsecond time intervals. The easiest way to increase the data acquisition time is to increase the

number of power line cycles in the measurement. By doing this the unit automatically sets the sweep time

interval, sweep offset, and sweep points, based on sampling the maximum number of points to provide

the best noise filtering.

To change the power line cycles on which a measurement is based, use:

SENS:SWE:NPLC <n>

If your load does not draw currents with a significant noise component, use a setting of 0.00912 PLC for

fast measurements. Use a setting of 1 PLC to achieve full accuracy on the 0.5mA current range.

Measurement Samples and Time Interval

You can vary both the number of data points in a measurement sample, as well as the time between

samples. This is illustrated in figure 5-2.

SENS:SWE:TINT <time>

SENS:SWE:POIN <# of points>

Figure 5-2. Commands that Control Measurement Time

When the instrument is turned on and at *RST, the output voltage or current sampling rate is 30.4

microseconds, and the sweep size is set to 5 data points. This means that it takes about 152 microseconds

per measurement. You can vary this data sampling rate with:

SENS:SWE:TINT <sample period>

SENS:SWE:POIN <points>

For example, to set the time interval to 60.8 microseconds per measurement with 1500 samples, use

SENS:SWE:TINT 60.8E-6;POIN 1500.

Note that increasing the number of sample points increases the accuracy of the measurement; however,

the tradeoff is it takes a longer time to make the measurement.

NOTE:

The total number of data points cannot exceed 4096. This means that the count

multiplied by the points in each measurement cannot exceed 4096; otherwise an error

will occur.

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Programming the DC Source - 5

Current Ranges

The dc source has three current measurement ranges. The command that controls the ranges is:

SENS:CURR:RANG <value>, (@<channel list>)

Enter the value of the current that you expect to measure. When the range is set to MAX, the maximum

current that can be measured is the maximum rating of the unit. Other measurement ranges are:

Range

0.5 A

Value to select range

values greater than 0.015A

15 mA

0.5 mA

values greater than 0.0005A up to 0.015A

values less than and up to 0.0005A

Window Functions

The dc source lets you select from two measurement window functions: Rectangular and Hanning. To

select a window function, use:

SENS:WIND: HANN | RECT

At power-on, the dc source measurement window is Rectangular. The Rectangular window calculates

average measurements without any signal conditioning. However, in the presence of periodic signals

such ac line ripple, a Rectangular window can introduce errors when calculating average measurements.

This can occur due to the last partial cycle of acquired data when a non-integral number of cycles of data

has been acquired. One way to overcome this limitation of the Rectangular window is to specify an

integral number of power line cycles with SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles before making a measurement.

Another way of dealing with ac line ripple is to use a Hanning window.

The Hanning window applies a cos⁴weighting function to the data in the measurement buffer when

calculating average measurements. This attenuates the ac noise in the measurement window. The best

attenuation is achieved when at least three or more waveform cycles are in the measurement buffer.

Returning All Measurement Data From the Data Buffer

The MEASure:ARRay and FETCh:ARRay queries return all data values of the instantaneous voltage or

current buffer. No averaging is applied, only raw data is returned from the buffer. The commands are:

MEAS:ARR:CURR? (@<channel list>)

MEAS:ARR:VOLT? (@<channel list>)

Triggered Measurements

Use the measurement trigger system to synchronize the acquisition of measurements with either a BUS or

an external trigger. Use FETCh commands to return voltage or current information from the data

acquired by the measurement system. Briefly, to make a triggered measurement:

Select a sweep interval and sample size

Select the trigger source

Initiate the trigger system

Fetch the triggered measurements

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Measurement Trigger Model

Figure 5-3 is a model of the measurement trigger system. The rectangular boxes represent states. The

arrows show the transitions between states. These are labeled with the input or event that causes the

transition to occur.

ABOR

IDLE STATE

INITiate:NAME ACQ

INITIATED STATE

TRIGGER RECEIVED

IS AN OUTPUT

*RST

CHANGE IN

PROGRESS?

YES

SETTLING DELAY

DATA ACQUIRED

Figure 5-3. Model of Measurement Trigger System

Enabling the Measurement Trigger System

When the dc source is turned on, the trigger system is in the idle state. In this state, the trigger system is

disabled and it ignores all triggers. Sending the following commands at any time returns the trigger

system to the idle state:

ABORt

*RST

The INITiate commands move the trigger system from the idle state to the initiated state. This enables

the measurement system to receive triggers. To initiate the measurement trigger system, use:

INIT:NAME ACQ

After a trigger is received and the data acquisition completes, the trigger system will return to the idle

state. Thus it will be necessary to initiate the system each time a triggered measurement is desired.

Selecting the Measurement Trigger Source

The trigger system is waiting for a trigger signal in the initiated state. Before you generate a trigger, you

must select a trigger source. The following measurement trigger sources can be selected:

Selects GPIB bus triggers.

BUS -

Selects the external trigger input as the trigger source.

EXTernal -

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Programming the DC Source - 5

To select GPIB bus triggers, use:

TRIG:ACQ:SOUR BUS

To select external triggers use:

TRIG:ACQ:SOUR EXT

Selecting the Sensing Function

Each output channel has its own measurement buffer. Since both voltage and current measurements are

supported, you must specify a measurement function before you generate a measurement trigger. Use the

following command to specify a measurement function:

SENS:FUNC "CURR", (@<channel list>) or

SENS:FUNC "VOLT", (@<channel list>)

Using this command makes it possible to measure output voltage on some channels while measuring

output current on other channels.

Output Settling Delay

If an output change has been programmed to occur in conjunction with a measurement trigger, the dc

source will delay the start of a measurement until the output has settled. This is an automatic function

that allows the output to settle to approximately 0.1% of final value for a representative load that is a

function of the selected sourcing mode. The representative load in voltage priority mode is a 20 ohm

resistor with the current limit set to MAXimum. The representative load in current priority mode is a zero

ohm short circuit.

To change the source settling delay, you must first change the source delay mode to MANual, then set a

value for the delay time. Use the following commands:

SOUR:DEL:MODE MAN, (@<channel list>)

SOUR:DEL:<time>, (@<channel list>)

where <time> is specified in seconds.

The minimum time interval that can be programmed is specified by SENS:SWE:TINT. In addition to the

minimum time interval, the delay time required for a given measurement accuracy is also function of

load, measurement parameter, and required accuracy. It may be convenient to characterize the delay

required for a particular load so that the test throughput can be optimized. Use the MEAS:ARRAY query

to obtain a record of the voltage or current as a function of time after a source change, so that the best

speed/accuracy tradeoff can be made.

Generating Measurement Triggers

After you specify the appropriate trigger source, sensing function, and optional settling delay, generate

triggers as follows:

Send one of the following commands over the GPIB:

TRIG:IMM (not affected by the trigger source setting)

*TRG

GPIB Triggers

an IEEE-488 Group Execute Trigger bus command

Provide a negative-going TTL signal to the trigger input.

EXTernal Triggers

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5 - Programming the DC Source

When the acquisition finishes, any of the FETCh queries can be used to return the results. Once the

measurement trigger is initiated, if a FETCh query is sent before the data acquisition is triggered or

before it is finished, the response data will be delayed until the trigger occurs and the acquisition

completes. This may tie up the computer if the trigger condition does not occur immediately.

One way to wait for results without tying up the computer is to use the SCPI command completion

commands. For example, you can send the *OPC command after INITialize, then occasionally poll the

OPC status bit in the standard event status register for status completion while doing other tasks. You can

also set up an SRQ condition on the OPC status bit going true and do other tasks until the SRQ interrupts.

Pre-trigger and Post-trigger Data Acquisition

The measurement system lets you capture data before, after, or at the trigger signal. When a measurement

is initiated, the dc source continuously samples the instantaneous signal level of the sensing function. As

shown in figure 5-4, you can move the block of data being read into the acquisition buffer with reference

to the acquisition trigger. This permits pre-trigger or post-trigger data sampling.

To offset the beginning of the acquisition buffer relative to the acquisition trigger, use:

SENS:SWE:OFFS:POIN <offset>

The range for the offset is -4096 to 2,000,000,000 points. As shown in the figure, when the offset is

negative, the values at the beginning of the data record represent samples taken prior to the trigger. When

the value is 0, all of the values are taken after the trigger. Values greater than zero can be used to

program a delay time from the receipt of the trigger until the data points that are entered into the buffer

are valid. (Delay time = offset x sample period).

NOTE:

If, during a pre-trigger data acquisition, a trigger occurs before the pre-trigger data count

is completed, the measurement system ignores this trigger. This will prevent the

completion of the measurement if another trigger is not generated.

OFFSET = -4096

4096 DATA POINTS

OFFSET =-2048

4096 DATA POINTS

OFFSET = 0

4096 DATA POINTS

OFFSET = 0 to 2

4096 DATA POINTS

TIME

ACQUISITION

TRIGGER

Figure 5-4. Pre-trigger and Post-trigger Acquisition

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Programming the DC Source - 5

Programming the Status Registers

Status register programming lets you determine the operating condition of the dc source at any time. For

example, you may program the dc source to generate an interrupt (SRQ) when an event such as a current

limit occurs. When the interrupt occurs, your program can act on the event in the appropriate fashion.

Figure 5-5 shows the status register structure of the dc source. Table 5-1 defines the status bits. The

Standard Event, Status Byte, and Service Request Enable registers and the Output Queue perform

standard GPIB functions as defined in the IEEE 488.2 Standard Digital Interface for Programmable

Instrumentation. The Operation Status and Questionable Status registers implement functions that are

specific to the dc source.

QUESTIONABLE STATUS

(IDENTICAL REGISTERS FOR EACH CHANNEL)

CONDITION PTR/NTR

EVENT

ENABLE

OV+

OV -

PCLR

CHAN 1QSUM

LOGICAL

QSUM

LOGICAL

CHAN 2

SAME

QSUM

CHAN 3

UNR

OSC

1024

QSUM

CHAN 1

CHAN 4

4096

Ovld

Meas

16384

SERVICE

REQUEST

ENABLE

STANDARD EVENT

STATUS

STATUS BYTE

OUTPUT QUEUE

DATA

EVENT

ENABLE

WTG

OPC

QUEUE

NOT

EMPTY

QUES

DATA

MAV

ESB

QYE

LOGICAL

DDE

EXE

CME

LOGICAL

MSS

RQS

OPER

128

PON

128

OPERATION STATUS

(IDENTICAL REGISTERS FOR EACH CHANNEL)

CONDITIONPTR/NTR

EVENT

ENABLE

SERVICE

REQUEST

GENERATION

CL+

CL -

CHAN 1OSUM

LOGICAL

OSUM

LOGICAL

CHAN 2

VL+

VL -

OFF

OSUM

CHAN 3

OSUM

CHAN 4

SAME

CHAN 1

Figure 5-5. DC Source Status Model

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Table 5-1. Bit Configurations of Status Registers

Meaning

Bit

Signal

Operation Status Group

The selected output is in constant voltage mode (applies only in voltage priority mode)

The selected output is in positive current limit (applies only in voltage priority mode)

The selected output is in negative current limit (applies only in voltage priority mode)

The selected output is in constant current mode (applies only in current priority mode)

The selected output is in positive voltage limit (applies only in current priority mode)

The selected output is in negative voltage limit (applies only in current priority mode)

The selected output is OFF

CL+

CL-

VL+

VL-

OFF

Questionable Status Group

OV+

OV-

PCLR

The positive overvoltage protection has tripped

The negative overvoltage protection has tripped

No communication with the selected output

The overtemperature protection has tripped

UNR

OSC

The output is unregulated

The oscillation protection has tripped

MeasOvld Output measurement exceeded capability of the range

Standard Event Status Group

OPC

QYE

DDE

EXE

CME

PON

Operation complete

Query error

Device-dependent error

Execution error

Command error

Power-on

Status Byte and Service Request Enable Registers

The unit is waiting for a trigger

Questionable status summary bit

Message Available summary bit

Event Status Summary bit

Master Status Summary bit

Request Service bit

WTG

QUES

MAV

ESB

MSS

RQS

OPER

Operation status summary bit

Operation Status Group

The Operation Status registers record signals that occur during normal operation. As shown below, the

group consists of a Condition, PTR/NTR, Event, and Enable register. The outputs of the Operation Status

Command

Description

Condition

STAT:OPER:COND? (@<channel list>)

A register that holds real-time status of the circuits

being monitored. It is a read-only register.

PTR Filter STAT:OPER:PTR <n> (@<channel list>)

NTR Filter STAT:OPER:NTR <n> (@<channel list>)

A positive transition filter that functions as described

under STAT:OPER:NTR|PTR commands in chapter 6.

It is a read/write register.

A negative transition filter that functions as described

under STAT:OPER:NTR|PTR commands in chapter 6.

It is a read/write register.

Event

STAT:OPER:EVEN? (@<channel list>)

A register that latches any condition that is passed

through the PTR or NTR filters. It is a read-only

Enable

STAT:OPER:ENAB <n> (@<channel list>) A register that functions as a mask for enabling specific

bits from the Event register. It is a read/write register.

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Programming the DC Source - 5

Questionable Status Group

The Questionable Status registers record signals that indicate abnormal operation. As shown below, the

group consists of the same register types as the Status Operation group. The outputs of the Questionable

Status group are logically-ORed into the QUEStionable summary bit (3) of the Status Byte register.

Command

Description

Condition

STAT:QUES:COND? (@<channel list>)

A register that holds real-time status of the circuits

being monitored. It is a read-only register.

A positive transition filter that functions as described

under STAT:QUES:NTR|PTR commands in chapter

6. It is a read/write register.

A negative transition filter that functions as described

under STAT:QUES:NTR|PTR commands in chapter

6. It is a read/write register.

PTR Filter

NTR Filter

Event

STAT:QUES:PTR <n> (@<channel list>)

STAT:QUES:NTR <n> (@<channel list>)

STAT:QUES:EVEN? (@<channel list>)

A register that latches any condition that is passed

through the PTR or NTR filters. It is a read-only

Enable

STAT:QUES:ENAB <n> (@<channel list>) A register that functions as a mask for enabling specific

bits from the Event register. It is a read/write register..

Standard Event Status Group

This group consists of an Event register and an Enable register that are programmed by Common

commands. The Standard Event event register latches events relating to instrument communication status

(see figure 5-5). It is a read-only register that is cleared when read. The Standard Event enable register

functions similarly to the enable registers of the Operation and Questionable status groups.

Command

*ESE

Action

programs specific bits in the Standard Event enable register.

reads and clears the Standard Event event register.

*ESR?

Status Byte Register

This register summarizes the information from all other status groups as defined in the IEEE 488.2

Standard Digital Interface for Programmable Instrumentation. See Table 5-1 for the bit configuration.

Command

*STB?

serial poll

Action

reads the data in the register but does not clear it (returns MSS in bit 6)

clears RQS inside the register and returns it in bit position 6 of the response.

The MSS and RQS Bits

MSS is a real-time (unlatched) summary of all Status Byte register bits that are enabled by the Service

Request Enable register. MSS is set whenever the dc source has one or more reasons for requesting

service. *STB? reads the MSS in bit position 6 of the response but does not clear any of the bits in the

Status Byte register.

The RQS bit is a latched version of the MSS bit. Whenever the dc source requests service, it sets the

SRQ interrupt line true and latches RQS into bit 6 of the Status Byte register. When the controller does a

serial poll, RQS is cleared inside the register and returned in bit position 6 of the response. The

remaining bits of the Status Byte register are not disturbed.

The MAV Bit and Output Queue

The Output Queue is a first-in, first-out (FIFO) data register that stores dc source-to-controller messages

until the controller reads them. Whenever the queue holds one or more bytes, it sets the MAV bit (4) of

the Status Byte register.

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5 - Programming the DC Source

Determining the Cause of a Service Interrupt

You can determine the reason for an SRQ by the following actions:

Step 1

Determine which summary bits are active. Use:

*STB? or serial poll

Step 2

Read the corresponding Event register for each summary bit to determine which events

caused the summary bit to be set. Use:

STAT:QUES:EVEN? (@<channel list>)

STAT:OPER:EVEN? (@<channel list>)

ESR?

When an Event register is read, it is cleared. This also clears the corresponding

summary bit.

Step 3

Remove the specific condition that caused the event. If this is not possible, the event

may be disabled by programming the corresponding bit of the status group Enable

request by programming the appropriate bit of the Service Request Enable register.

Servicing Operation Status and Questionable Status Events

This example assumes you want a service request generated whenever the dc source switches to the CC

(constant current) operating mode, or whenever the dc source's overvoltage, overcurrent, or

overtemperature circuits have tripped. From figure 5-5, note the required path for a condition at bit 10

(CC) of the Operation Status register to set bit 6 (RQS) of the Status Byte register. Also note the

required path for Questionable Status conditions at bits 0, 1, and 4 to generate a service request (RQS) at

the Status Byte register. The required register programming is as follows:

Step 1

Program the Operation Status PTR register to allow a positive transition at bit 6 to be

latched into the Operation Status Event register, and allow the latched event to be

summed into the Operation summary bit. Use:

STAT:OPER:PTR 64,(@<channel list>);ENAB 64,(@<channel list>)

Step 2

Program the Questionable Status PTR register to allow a positive transition at bits 0, 1, or

4 to be latched into the Questionable Status Event register, and allow the latched event to

be summed into the Questionable summary bit. Use:

STAT:QUES:PTR 19,(@<channel list>);ENAB 19 ,(@<channel list>) (1 + 2 + 16 = 19)

Step 3

Step 4

Program the Service Request Enable register to allow both the Operation and the

Questionable summary bits from the Status Byte register to generate RQS. Use:

*SRE 136

(8 + 128 = 136)

When you service the request, read the event registers to determine which Operation

Status and Questionable Status Event register bits are set, and clear the registers for the

next event. Use:

STAT:OPER:EVEN? (@<channel list>);QUES:EVEN? (@<channel list>)

You can also monitor a status signal for both its positive and negative transitions. For example, to

generate RQS when the dc source either enters the CC+ (constant current) condition or leaves that

condition, program the Operational Status PTR/NTR filter as follows:

STAT:OPER:PTR 8,(@<channel list>);NTR 8,(@<channel list>)

STAT:OPER:ENAB 8,(@<channel list>);*SRE 128,(@<channel list>)

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Language Dictionary

Introduction

This section gives the syntax and parameters for all the IEEE 488.2 SCPI commands and the Common

commands used by the dc source. It is assumed that you are familiar with the material in chapter 4, which

explains the terms, symbols, and syntactical structures used here and gives an introduction to

programming. You should also be familiar with chapter 5, in order to understand how the dc source

functions.

The programming examples are simple applications of SCPI commands. Because the SCPI syntax

remains the same for all programming languages, the examples given for each command are generic.

Syntax definitions use the long form, but only short form headers (or "keywords")

appear in the examples. Use the long form to help make your program self-

documenting.

Syntax Forms

Most commands require a parameter and all queries will return a parameter. The

range for a parameter may vary according to the model of dc source. When this is the

case, refer to the Specifications table in Appendix A.

Parameters

Where appropriate, related commands or queries are included. These are listed

because they are either directly related by function, or because reading about them

will clarify or enhance your understanding of the original command or query.

Commands

The dictionary is organized according to the following functions: calibration, display,

measurement, output, status, system, trigger, and common commands. Both the

subsystem commands and the common commands that follow are arranged in

alphabetical order under each heading.

Order of

Presentation

Subsystem Commands

Subsystem commands are specific to functions. They can be a single command or a group of commands.

The groups are comprised of commands that extend one or more levels below the root.

The subsystem command groups are arranged according to function: Calibration, Display, Measurement,

Output, Status, System, and Trigger. Commands under each function are grouped alphabetically.

Commands followed by a question mark (?) take only the query form. When commands take both the

command and query form, this is noted in the syntax descriptions. Table 6-1 lists all of the subsystem

commands in alphabetical order.

Common Commands

Common commands begin with an * and consist of three letters (command) or three letters and a ?

(query). They are defined by the IEEE 488.2 standard to perform common interface functions. Table 6-2

lists all of the common commands in alphabetical order.

Programming Parameters

Table 6-3 lists all of the output programming parameters.

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6 – Language Dictionary

SCPI Programming Commands - At a Glance

Table 6-1. Subsystem Commands Syntax

ABORt

Resets the trigger system to the Idle state

CALibrate

:CURRent

[:LEVEL] (@channel)

:LIMit

[:POSitive] (@channel)

Calibrate output current and low current measurement range

Calibrate positive current limit

:NEGative (@channel)

:MEASure <max_val>, (@channel)

:DATA <n>

Calibrate negative current limit

Calibrate high and medium current measurement range

Enters the calibration value

:DATE <date>

Sets the calibration date

:LEVel <level>

:PASSword <n>

Advance to next calibration step (P1 | P2)

Set numeric calibration password

:SAVE

:STATE <bool> [,<n>]

:VOLTage (@channel)

Save new cal constants in non-volatile memory

Enable or disable calibration mode

Calibrate output voltage and voltage measurement range

INITiate

[:IMMediate]

:NAME <name>

Enable the named trigger system (TRANsient | ACQuire)

FETCh

:ARRay

:CURRent [:DC]? (@list)

:VOLTage [:DC]? (@list)

[:SCALar]

Returns the digitized instantaneous current

Returns the digitized instantaneous voltage

:CURRent [:DC]? (@list)

:VOLTage [:DC]? (@list)

Returns output current dc measurement

Returns output voltage dc measurement

MEASure

:ARRay

:CURRent [:DC]? [max_val,] (@list)

:VOLTage [:DC]? (@list)

[:SCALar]

Digitizes and returns the instantaneous output current

Digitizes and returns the instantaneous output voltage

:CURRent [:DC]? [max_val,] (@list)

:VOLTage [:DC]? (@list)

Digitizes and returns average (dc) output current

Digitizes and returns average (dc) output voltage

OUTPut

[:STATe] <bool>, (@list)

:OSCProtect

[:STATe] <bool>, (@list)

:PROTection

Enables/disables the selected dc source output

Enables/disables oscillation protection on the selected output

Reset latched protection

:CLEar (@list)

SENSe

:CURRent[:DC]

:RANGe [:UPPer] <max_val>, (@list)

:FUNCtion <function>, (@list)

:SWEep

Selects the current measurement range

Configures the measurement sensor ("VOLTage" | "CURRent" )

:NPLCycles <n>

Sets the number of ac power line cycles

:OFFSet

:POINts <n>

:TINTerval <n>

Defines the trigger offset in the measurement sweep

Defines the number of data points in the measurement

Sets the measurement sample interval

:WINDow [:TYPE] <type>

Sets measurement window function (HANNing | RECTangular)

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Language Dictionary - 6

Table 6-1. Subsystem Commands Syntax (continued)

[SOURce:]

CURRent

[:LEVel]

[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

Sets the output current (in current priority mode)

:TRIGgered [:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

Sets the triggered output current (in current priority mode)

:LIMit [:POSitive]

[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

:BWIDth <bandwidth> , (@list)

:TRIGgered [:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

Sets the current limit (in voltage priority mode)

Sets the output compensation bandwidth

Sets the triggered current limit (in voltage priority mode)

Sets the current trigger mode (FIXed | STEP)

:MODE <mode>, (@list)

DELay

[:TIME] <n>, (@list)

:MODE <mode>, (@list)

Sets the output settling delay time in Manual mode

Sets the output settling delay mode (AUTO | MANual )

FUNCtion

:MODE <mode>, (@list)

VOLTage

:ALC

:BWIDth <bandwidth> , (@list)

[:LEVel]

[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

Sets the output mode (VOLTage | CURRent)

Sets the output compensation bandwidth

Sets the output voltage (in voltage priority mode)

Sets the triggered output voltage (in voltage priority mode)

Sets the voltage trigger mode (FIXed | STEP)

:TRIGgered [:AMPLitude] <n>, (@list)

:MODE <mode>, (@list)

:PROTection

[:STATe] <bool>, (@list)

Enables/disables overvoltage protection on the selected output

STATus

:OPERation

[:EVENt]? (@list)

Returns the value of the event register

Returns the value of the condition register

Enables specific bits in the Event register

Sets the Negative transition filter

:CONDition? (@list)

:ENABle <n>, (@list)

:NTRansition<n>, (@list)

:PTRansition<n>, (@list)

Sets the Positive transition filter

:PRESet

:QUEStionable

[:EVENt]? (@list)

Presets all enable and transition registers to power-on

Returns the value of the event register

Returns the value of the condition register

Enables specific bits in the Event register

Sets the Negative transition filter

:CONDition? (@list)

:ENABle <n>, (@list)

:NTRansition<n>, (@list)

:PTRansition<n>, (@list)

Sets the Positive transition filter

SYSTem

:ERRor?

:VERSion?

Returns the error number and error string

Returns the SCPI version number

TRIGger

:ACQuire

[:IMMediate]

:SOURce <source>

[:TRANsient]

Triggers the measurement immediately

Sets the measurement trigger source (BUS | EXTernal)

[:IMMediate]

Triggers the output immediately

:SOURce <source>

Sets the output trigger source (BUS | EXTernal)

NOTE:

Some [optional] commands have been included for clarity. Refer to chapter 6 for a

complete description of all programming commands.

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6 – Language Dictionary

Table 6-2. Common Commands Syntax

Clear status

*CLS

*ESE <n>

*ESE?

*ESR?

*IDN?

*OPC

Standard event status enable

Return standard event status enable

Return event status register

Return instrument identification

Enable "operation complete" bit in ESR

Return a "1" when operation complete

Return option number

*OPC?

*OPT?

*RST

Reset

*SRE <n>

*SRE?

*STB?

*TRG

Set service request enable register

Return service request enable register

Return status byte

Trigger

*TST?

*WAI

Perform selftest, then return result

Hold off bus until all device commands done

Table 6-3. Output Programming Parameters

Parameter

[SOUR:]CURR[:LEV][:IMM] and

[SOUR:]CURR[:LEV]:TRIG

Value

−0.5125 mA to +0.5125 mA

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM[:IMM] and

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM:TRIG

+75µA to +0.5125 A

−75µA to −0.5125 A

*RST Current [Level] Value

*RST Current Limit Value

0 A

75µA

[SOUR:]VOLT[:LEV][:IMM] and

[SOUR:]VOLT[:LEV]:TRIG

−10.25 V to +10.25 V

*RST Voltage Value

[SOUR:]DEL

0 V

0 − 1000

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Language Dictionary - 6

Calibration Commands

Calibration commands let you enable and disable the calibration mode, change the calibration password,

calibrate current and voltage programming, and store new calibration constants in nonvolatile memory.

Only one output channel may be calibrated at a time.

NOTE:

If calibration mode has not been enabled with CALibrate:STATe, programming the

calibration commands will generate an error. You must also save any changes that you

made using CALibrate:SAVE, otherwise all changes will be lost when you exit

calibration mode.

CALibrate:CURRent

This command initiates the calibration of the current priority mode as well as the 0.5mA current range

measurement circuit.

CALibrate:CURRent[:LEVel] (@<channel>)

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

CAL:CURR(@1)

CAL:CURR:LIM,

! start current calibration

CAL:CURR:MEAS

Examples

Related Commands

CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive]

CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit:NEGative

This command initiates the calibration of the positive or negative current limit.

CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive] (@<channel>)

CALibrate:CURRent:LIMit:NEGative (@<channel>)

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

CAL:CURR:LIM (@1)

CAL:CURR:LIM:NEG (@1)

CAL:CURR

CAL:CURR:MEAS

Related Commands

CALibrate:CURRent:MEASure

This command initiates the calibration of the 0.5A or 15mA current range measurement circuit.

CALibrate:CURRent:MEASure <NRf>, (@<channel>)

A value that falls within the 0.5A or 15mA current range

A (amperes)

Command Syntax

Parameters

Unit

CAL:CURR:MEAS 0.5,(@1)

CAL:CURR:MEAS 0.005,(@1)

!0.5A range

!15mA range

Examples

CAL:CURR,

CAL:CURR:LIM

Related Commands

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6 – Language Dictionary

CALibrate:DATA

This command enters a calibration value that you obtain by reading an external meter. You must first

select a calibration level (with CALibrate:LEVel) for the value being entered.

CALibrate:DATA <NRf>

Command Syntax

Parameters

A or V (amperes or volts)

Unit

Examples

CAL:DATA 3222.3 MA

CAL:DATA 5.000

CAL:STAT CAL:LEV

Related Commands

CALibrate:DATE

This command stores the date the unit was last calibrated. Enter any ASCII string up to 31 characters.

CALibrate:DATE <date>

<date>

CAL:DATE "3/22/01"

Command Syntax

Parameters

CAL:DATE "22.3.99"

Examples

CALibrate:DATE?

<SRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

CALibrate:LEVel

This command selects the next point in the calibration sequence. P1 is the first calibration point,

P2 is the second calibration point.

CALibrate:LEVel <point>

P1 | P2

CAL:LEV P2

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

CALibrate:PASSword

This command lets you change the calibration password. A new password is automatically stored in

nonvolatile memory and does not have to be stored with CALibrate:SAVE. The default password is the

model number of the unit. If the password is set to 0, password protection is removed and the ability to

enter the calibration mode is unrestricted.

CALibrate:PASSword <NRf>

<model number> (default)

CAL:PASS 1234

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

CAL:SAV

Related Commands

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Language Dictionary - 6

CALibrate:SAVE

This command saves any new calibration constants after a calibration procedure has been completed in

nonvolatile memory. If CALibrate:STATe OFF is programmed without a CALibrate:SAVE, the previous

calibration constants are restored..

CALibrate:SAVE

None

CAL:SAVE

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

CAL:PASS CAL:STAT

Related Commands

CALibrate:STATe

This command enables and disables calibration mode. The calibration mode must be enabled before the

dc source will accept any other calibration commands.

The first parameter specifies the enabled or disabled state. The second parameter is the password. A

password is required if calibration mode is being enabled and the existing password is not 0. If the

password is not entered or is incorrect, an error is generated and the calibration mode remains disabled.

The query returns only the state, not the password.

NOTE:

Whenever the calibration state is changed from enabled to disabled, any new calibration

constants are lost unless they have been stored with CALibrate:SAVE.

CALibrate:STATe <bool>[,<NRf>]

0 | OFF | 1 | ON [,<password>]

OFF

Command Syntax

Parameters

*RST Value

CAL:STAT 1,3280 CAL:STAT OFF

Examples

CALibrate:STATe?

<NR1>

CAL:PASS CAL:SAVE *RST

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

CALibrate:VOLTage

This command initiates the calibration of the output voltage and the voltage measurement circuit.

CALibrate:VOLTage (@<channel>)

None

CAL:VOLT (@1)

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

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6 – Language Dictionary

Measurement Commands

Measurement commands consist of fetch, measure, and sense commands.

Measure commands measure the output voltage or current. Measurements are performed by digitizing

the instantaneous output voltage or current for a specified number of samples, storing the results in a

buffer, and calculating the measured result. Two types of measurement commands are available:

MEASure and FETCh. MEASure commands trigger the acquisition of new data before returning the

reading. Measurement overflows return a reading of 9.91E+37. FETCh commands return a reading

computed from previously acquired data. If you take a voltage measurement, you can fetch only voltage

data. If you take a current measurement, you can fetch only current data.

♦ Use MEASure when the measurement does not need to be synchronized with any other event.

♦ Use FETCh when it is important that the measurement be synchronized with either a trigger or with a

particular part of the output waveform.

Sense commands control the current measurement range, the bandwidth detector of the dc source, and

the data acquisition sequence.

FETCh:ARRay:CURRent?

FETCh:ARRay:VOLTage?

These queries return an array containing either the digitized output current in amperes or output voltage

in volts. The data returned is the result of the last measurement command or acquisition trigger. The data

is valid until the next *RST, MEASure, or INITiate command occurs.

FETCh:ARRay:CURRent[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

FETCh:ARRay:VOLTage[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

Examples

FETC:ARR:CURR? (@1)

FETC:ARR:VOLT? (@1)

<NR3> [,<NR3>]

SENS:SWE:TINT SENS:SWE:OFFS SENS:SWE:POIN

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

FETCh:CURRent?

FETCh:VOLTage?

These queries return either the dc output current in amperes or output voltage in volts. The data returned

is the result of the last measurement command or acquisition trigger. The data is valid until the next

*RST, MEASure, or INITiate command occurs.

MEASure[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

FETCh[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

Examples

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

MEAS:CURR? (@1)

<NR3> [,<NR3>]

MEAS:VOLT?

FETC:CURR:DC? (@1)

MEAS:CURR?

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Language Dictionary - 6

MEASure:ARRay:CURRent?

MEASure:ARRay:VOLTage?

These queries initiate and trigger a measurement and return an array containing either the digitized output

current in amperes or output voltage in volts. The output voltage or current is digitized whenever a

measurement command is sent or an acquisition trigger occurs. The time interval is set by

SENSe:SWEep:TINTerval. The position of the trigger relative to the beginning of the data buffer is

determined by SENSe:SWEep:OFFSet. The number of points returned is set by SENSe:SWEep:POINts.

NOTE:

You can specify an optional maximum value parameter. The dc source will select the

proper current range to measure the maximum current.

MEASure:ARRay:CURRent[:DC]? [<maximum value>,] (@<channel list>)

Query Syntax

MEASure:ARRay:VOLTage[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

None

Parameters

Examples

MEAS:ARR:CURR? 0.1,(@1)

MEAS:ARR:VOLT? (@1)

<NR3>[,<NR3>]

SENS:SWE:TINT SENS:SWE:OFFS SENS:SWE:POIN

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

MEASure:CURRent?

MEASure:VOLTage?

These queries initiate and trigger a measurement and return either the output current in amperes or

output voltage in volts. The total measurement time is specified by SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles.

NOTE:

You can specify an optional maximum value parameter. This lets you use a different

current range for a single measurement without having to change current ranges.

MEASure[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]? [<maximum value>,] (@<channel list>)

Query Syntax

MEASure[:SCALar]:VOLTage[:DC]? (@<channel list>)

None

Parameters

Examples

MEAS:CURR? 0.1,(@1)

MEAS:VOLT? (@1)

<NR3> [,<NR3>]

FETC:VOLT? FETC:CURR? SENS:SWE:NPLC

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

SENSe:CURRent:RANGe

This command selects one of the following dc current measurement ranges based on the value entered:

Enter values greater than 0.015A

0.5 A

Enter values greater than 0.0005A up to 0.015A

Enter values less than and up to 0.0005A

15 mA

0.5 mA

The programmed value must be the maximum current that you expect to measure. Crossover values are

0.5 mA and 15 mA respectively. When queried, the returned value is the maximum dc current that can be

measured on the range that is presently set.

SENSe:CURRent[:DC]:RANGe[:UPPer] <Nrf>, (@<channel list>)

The maximum current that you expect to measure (see table 6-3)

Command Syntax

Parameters

A (amperes)

Unit

0.5 A

*RST Value

SENS:CURR:RANG 0.4,(@1)

Examples

SENSe:CURRent:RANGe? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

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6 – Language Dictionary

SENSe:FUNCtion

This command configures the sensing function for triggered measurements. The dc source has two

measurement sensors as described below. The query returns the function setting.

Senses the output current at the selected output

Senses the output voltage at the selected output

CURRent

VOLTage

SENSe:FUNCtion <function>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

"VOLTage" | "CURRent"

VOLT

SENS:FUNC "VOLT",(@1)

Parameters

*RST Value

Examples

SENSe:FUNCtion? (@<channel list>)

<SRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles

This command specifies the total measurement acquisition time in terms of ac power line cycles. It

automatically sets the sweep time interval, sweep offset, and sweep points. The values are chosen to

sample the maximum number of points possible and to provide the best noise filtering.

SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles <NRf+>

1 through <n>

Command Syntax

Parameters

0.00912 (for 60Hz line)

0.0076 (for 50Hz line)

SENS:SWE:NPLC 10

SENSe:SWEep:NPLCycles?

<NR3>

*RST Value

Examples

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

SENSe:SWEep:OFFSet:POINts

This command defines the offset in a data sweep when an acquire trigger is used. Negative values

represent data samples taken prior to the trigger. Positive values represent the delay after the trigger

occurs but before the samples are acquired.

SENSe:SWEep:OFFSet:POINts <NRf+>

-4095 through 2,000,000,000

Command Syntax

Parameters

*RST Value

SENS:SWE:OFFS:POIN -2047

Examples

SENSe:SWEep:OFFSet:POINts?

<NR3>

SENS:SWE:TINT SENS:SWE:POIN MEAS:ARR

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

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Language Dictionary - 6

SENSe:SWEep:POINts

This command defines the number of points in a measurement.

SENSe:SWEep:POINts <NRf+>

1 through 4096

Command Syntax

Parameters

*RST Value

SENS:SWE:POIN 1024

Examples

SENSe:SWEep:POINts?

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

SENS:SWE:TINT

SENS:SWE:OFFS MEAS:ARR

SENSe:SWEep:TINTerval

This command defines the time period between samples. The value that you enter for the time interval

will be rounded to the nearest 30.4 microsecond increment.

SENSe:SWEep:TINTerval <NRf+>

30.4 microseconds through 60800 seconds

30.4 microseconds

Command Syntax

Parameters

*RST Value

SENS:SWE:TINT 60.8E-6

Examples

SENSe:SWEep:TINTerval?

Query Syntax

<NR3>

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

SENS:SWE:POIN SENS:SWE:OFFS MEAS:ARR

SENSe:WINDow

This command sets the window function that is used in dc measurement calculations. The following

functions can be selected:

A signal conditioning window that reduces errors in dc measurement calculations in

the presence of periodic signals such ac line ripple. The Hanning window multiplies

each point in the measurement sample by the function cosine⁴.

HANNing

A window that returns measurement calculations without any signal conditioning.

RECTangular

NOTE:

Neither window function alters the instantaneous voltage or current data returned in the

measurement array.

SENSe:WINDow[:TYPE] <type>

HANNing | RECTangular

RECTangular

Command Syntax

Parameters

*RST Value

SENS:WIND RECT

Examples

SENSe:WINDow[:TYPE]?

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

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6 – Language Dictionary

Output Commands

Output commands consist of output and source commands.

Output commands enable the output and oscillation functions.

Source commands program the actual output voltage and current settings.

OUTPut

This command enables or disables the dc source output. The state of a disabled output is a condition of

zero output voltage and a model-dependent minimum source current (see *RST). The output and sense

relays are closed when the output is enabled and opened when the output is disabled. The query returns 0

if the output is off, and 1 if the output is on.

OUTPut[:STATe] <bool>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

Parameters

0 | OFF | 1 | ON

OFF

OUTP ON,(@1:4)

*RST Value

Examples

OUTPut[:STATe]? (@<channel list>)

<NR1> 0 | 1

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

OUTPut:OSCProtect

This command enables or disables the oscillation protection on the selected output.

OUTPut:OSCProtect[:STATe] <bool>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

Parameters

0 | OFF | 1 | ON

OUTP:OSCP ON,(@1:4)

*RST Value

Examples

OUTPut:OSCProtect[:STATe]? (@<channel list>)

<NR1> 0 | 1

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

This command clears the latch that disables the output when an overvoltage, overtemperature, or

oscillation status condition is detected. All conditions that generate the fault must be removed before the

latch can be cleared. The output is then restored to the state it was in before the fault condition occurred.

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar (@<channel list>)

None

OUTP:PROT:CLE (@1:4)

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

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Language Dictionary - 6

[SOURce:]CURRent[:IMMediate]

[SOURce:]CURRent:TRIGgered

These commands set the immediate and the pending triggered current level of the dc source. They only

apply in current priority mode. The immediate level is the output current setting. The pending triggered

level is a stored value that is transferred to the output when a trigger occurs. To respond to a trigger, the

[SOUR:]CURR:MODE must be set to STEP, and the trigger system must be initiated.

[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

see table 6-3

A ( amperes)

Parameters

Default Suffix

*RST Value

Examples

CURR 0.0001 ,(@1)

CURR:TRIG 0.0002,(@1)

[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

INIT

CURR:MODE

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[:IMMediate]

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:TRIGgered

These commands set the immediate and the pending triggered current limit of the dc source. They only

apply in voltage priority mode. The current limit setting applies to both the positive and negative current

limits. The pending triggered limit is a stored value that applies when a trigger occurs. To respond to a

trigger, the [SOUR:]CURR:LIM:MODE must be set to STEP, and the trigger system must be initiated.

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate] <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[POSitive]:TRIGgered <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

see table 6-3

A ( amperes)

0.001

Parameters

Default Suffix

*RST Value

Examples

CURR:LIM 0.25,(@1)

CURR:LIM:TRIG 0.35,(@1)

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate]? (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit[POSitive]:TRIGgered? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

INIT

CURR:LIM:MODE

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:BWIDth

This command configures the output compensation band of the current limit circuit. If capacitive loads

cause the output to oscillate, use this command to select a lower compenstion band. Note that if the

output is on, changing the compensation will cause the output to cycle OFF, then ON. The following

compensation bandwidths may be programmed: 30 kHz or 10 kHz.

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:BWIDth <Nrf>, (@<channel list>)

10000 | 30000

Command Syntax

Parameters

30000

*RST Value

CURR:LIM:BWID 10000,(@1)

Examples

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:BWIDth? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

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6 – Language Dictionary

[SOURce:]CURRent:MODE

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:MODE

These commands determine what happens to the output current and current limit during a triggered event.

The output current and output current limit is unaffected when a trigger occurs.

The output current is set by the CURR:TRIG value when a trigger occurs.

The current limit is set by the CURR:LIM:TRIG value when a trigger occurs.

FIXed

STEP

[SOURce:]CURRent:MODE <mode>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:MODE <mode>, (@<channel list>)

FIXed | STEP

FIXed

CURR:MODE FIX,(@1)

Parameters

*RST Value

Examples

CURR:LIM:MODE FIX,(@1)

[SOURce:]CURRent:MODE? (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]CURRent:LIMit:MODE? (@<channel list>)

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

[SOURce:]DELay

This command sets the delay when [SOUR:]DEL:MODE is set to MANUAL. If an output is changed and

a subsequent measurement is requested, the measurement will be delayed to allow the output to settle.

[SOURce:]DELay[:TIMe] <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

Parameters

0 to 1000 (seconds)

DEL .001,(@1)

*RST Value

Examples

[SOURce:]DELay[:TIMe]? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

[SOURce:]DELay:MODE

This command selects the source delay mode.

The dc source selects an appropriate delay for the present output voltage or current

The delay programmed by [SOURce:] will be used as the delay.

AUTO

MANual

[SOURce:]DELay:MODE <mode>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

Parameters

AUTO | MANual

AUTO

DEL:MODE AUTO,(@1)

*RST Value

Examples

[SOURce:]DELay:MODE? (@<channel list>)

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

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Language Dictionary - 6

[SOURce:]FUNCtion:MODE

This comand configures the output operating mode. Note that if the output is on, changing the output

mode will cause the output to cycle OFF, then ON.

Configures the output for voltage priority operation

Configures the output for current priority operation

VOLTage

CURRent

[SOURce:]FUNCtion:MODE <mode>,(@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

Parameters

VOLTage | CURRent

VOLT

FUNC:MODE VOLT,(@1)

*RST Value

Examples

[SOURce:]FUNC:MODE? (@<channel list>)

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

[SOURce:]VOLTage:ALC:BWIDth

This command configures the output compensation band for the voltage mode. If capacitive loads cause

the output to oscillate, use this command to select a lower compenstion band. Note that if the output is

on, changing the compensation will cause the output to cycle OFF, then ON. The following

compensation bandwidths may be programmed: 30 kHz, 20 kHz, or 10 kHz.

[SOURce:]VOLTage:ALC:BWIDth <Nrf>, (@<channel list>)

10000 | 20000 | 30000

Command Syntax

Parameters

30000

*RST Value

VOLT:ALC:BWID 10000,(@1)

Examples

[SOURce:]VOLTage:ALC:BWIDth? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:IMMediate]

[SOURce:]VOLTage:TRIGgered

These commands set the immediate and the pending triggered voltage level of the dc source. The

immediate level is the voltage programmed for the output terminals. The pending triggered level is a

stored value that is transferred to the output terminals when a trigger occurs. To respond to a trigger, the

[SOUR:]VOLT:MODE must be set to STEP, and the trigger system must be initiated.

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]<NRf+>, (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <Nrf+>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

see table 6-3

V (volts)

Parameters

Default Suffix

*RST Value

Examples

VOLT 2.5,(@1)

VOLT:TRIG 20,(@1)

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? (@<channel list>)

[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? (@<channel list>)

<NR3>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

INIT

VOLT:MODE

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6 – Language Dictionary

[SOURce:]VOLTage:MODE

This command determines what happens to the output voltage during a triggered event.

The output voltage is unaffected when a trigger occurs.

The output voltage is programmed to the value set by VOLT:TRIG when a trigger occurs.

FIXed

STEP

[SOURce:]VOLTage:MODE <mode>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

FIXed | STEP

FIXed

Parameters

*RST Value

VOLT:MODE FIX,(@1)

Examples

[SOURce:]VOLTage:MODE? (@<channel list>)

Query Syntax

<CRD>

VOLT:TRIG

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:STATe

This command enables or disables the overvoltage protection (OVP) function. The command only

applies in voltage priority mode. When enabled, the output of the unit will shut down and the output

relays will open when the output voltage exceeds +11.5V ( 0.3V), or −11.5V ( 0.3V).

CAUTION:

Disabling the overvoltage protection function may cause excessive output voltages, such

as can occur if remote sense leads are shorted, to damage the equipment under test.

[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:STATe <bool>, (@<channel list>)

Command Syntax

0 | OFF | 1 | ON

Parameters

*RST Value

VOLT:PROT:STAT 0,(@1)

Examples

[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:STATe? (@<channel list>)

<NR1>0 or 1

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

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Language Dictionary - 6

Status Commands

Status commands program the dc source status registers. The dc source has three groups of status

registers; Operation, Questionable, and Standard Event. The Standard Event group is programmed with

Common commands as described later in this section. The Operation and Questionable status groups

each consist of the Condition, Enable, and Event registers and the NTR and PTR filters. Chapter 5

explains how to read specific register bits and use the information they return.

STATus:OPERation[:EVENt]?

This query returns the value of the Operation Event register. The Event register is a read-only register,

which stores (latches) all events that are passed by the Operation NTR and/or PTR filter. Reading the

Operation Event register clears it.

STATus:OPERtion[:EVENt]? (@<channel list>)

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

<NR1>(register value)

STAT:OPER? (@1)

Returned Parameters

Examples

*CLS STAT:OPER:NTR STAT:OPER:PTR

Related Commands

Table 6-4. Bit Configuration of Operation Status Registers

Bit Position

Bit Name

Bit Value

OFF

VL-

VL+

CL-

CL+

OFF =The selected output is off

CL- =The selected output is in negative current limit²

CL+ =The selected output is in positive current limit²

CV =The selected output is in constant voltage²

¹Current priority mode only. ²Voltage priority mode only.

VL- =The selected output is in negative voltage limit¹

VL+ =The selected output is in positive voltage limit¹

CC =The selected output is in constant current¹

STATus:OPERation:CONDition?

This query returns the value of the Operation Condition register. That is a read-only register, which holds

the live (unlatched) operational status of the dc source.

STATus:OPERation:CONDition? (@<channel list>)

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

Examples

STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)

STATUS:OPERATION:CONDITION? (@1)

<NR1> (register value)

Returned Parameters

STATus:OPERation:ENABle

This command and its query set and read the value of the Operational Enable register. This register is a

mask for enabling specific bits from the Operation Event register to set the operation summary bit

(OPER) of the Status Byte register. This bit (bit 7) is the logical OR of all the Operatonal Event register

bits that are enabled by the Status Operation Enable register.

STATus:OPERation:ENABle<NRf>,(@<channel list>)

0 to 32767

Command Syntax

Parameters

Preset Value

STAT:OPER:ENAB 1312,(@1)

Examples

STATus:OPERation:ENABle? (@<channel list>)

<NR1> (register value)

STAT:OPER?

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

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6 – Language Dictionary

STATus:OPERation:NTR

STATus:OPERation:PTR

These commands set or read the value of the Operation NTR (Negative-Transition) and PTR (Positive-

Transition) registers. These registers serve as polarity filters between the Operation Enable and

Operation Event registers to cause the following actions:

K When a bit in the Operation NTR register is set to 1, then a 1-to-0 transition of the corresponding bit

in the Operation Condition register causes that bit in the Operation Event register to be set.

K When a bit of the Operation PTR register is set to 1, then a 0-to-1 transition of the corresponding bit

in the Operation Condition register causes that bit in the Operation Event register to be set.

K If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 1, then any transition of that bit at the

Operation Condition register sets the corresponding bit in the Operation Event register.

K If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 0, then no transition of that bit at the

Operation Condition register can set the corresponding bit in the Operation Event register.

STATus:OPERtion:NTRansition<NRf>, (@<channel list>)

STATus:OPERtion:PTRansition<NRf>, (@<channel list>)

0 to 32767

NTR register = 0; PTR register = 32767

STAT:OPER:NTR 32,(@1) STAT:OPER:PTR 1312,(@1)

Command Syntax

Parameters

Preset Value

Examples

STAT:OPER:NTR? (@<channel list>)

STAT:OPER:PTR? (@<channel list>)

<NR1> (register value)

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

STATus:PRESet

This command sets all defined bits in the Status Subsystem PTR registers and clears all bits in the

subsytem NTR and Enable registers.

STATus:PRESet

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

STAT:PRES STATUS:PRESET

Examples

STATus:QUEStionable[:EVENt]?

This query returns the value of the Questionable Event register. The Event register is a read-only register

that stores (latches) all events that are passed by the Questionable NTR and/or PTR filter. Reading the

Questionable Event register clears it.

STATus:QUEStionable[:EVENt]? (@<channel list>)

Query Syntax

Parameters

None

STAT:QUES? (@1)

Examples

<NR1> (register value)

*CLS STAT:QUES:ENAB STAT:QUES:NTR STAT:QUES:PTR

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

Table 6-5. Bit Configuration of Questionable Status Registers

9-5

Bit Position

Bit Name

not

used

Meas

Ovld

not

used

OSC

not

used

UNR

not

used

not

used

PCLR

OV-

OV+

16384

4096

1024

Bit Value

Meas Ovld = The output measurement exceeded the

capability of the range

OSC = The oscillation protection has tripped

UNR = The output is unregulated

OT = The overtemperature protection has tripped

PCLR = No communication with the selected output

OV- = The negative overvoltage protection has tripped

OV+ = The positive overvoltage protection has tripped

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Language Dictionary - 6

STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition?

This query returns the value of the Questionable Condition register. That is a read-only register, which

holds the real-time (unlatched) questionable status of the dc source.

STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition? (@<channel list>)

Query Syntax

Parameters

None

STAT:QUES:COND? (@1)

Examples

<NR1> (register value)

Returned Parameters

STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle

This command and its query set and read the value of the Questionable Enable register. This register is a

mask for enabling specific bits from the Questionable Event register to set the questionable summary bit

(QUES) of the Status Byte register. This bit (bit 3) is the logical OR of all the Questionable Event

STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle<NRf>, (@<channel list>)

0 to 32767

Command Syntax

Parameters

Preset Value

STAT:QUES:ENAB 4096,(@1) !enables OSC

Examples

STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle? (@<channel list>)

<NR1> (register value)

STAT:QUES?

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

STATus:QUEStionable:NTR

STATus:QUEStionable:PTR

These commands allow you to set or read the value of the Questionable NTR (Negative-Transition) and

PTR (Positive-Transition) registers. These registers serve as polarity filters between the Questionable

Enable and Questionable Event registers to cause the following actions:

K When a bit of the Questionable NTR register is set to 1, then a 1-to-0 transition of the corresponding

bit of the Questionable Condition register causes that bit in the Questionable Event register to be set.

K When a bit of the Questionable PTR register is set to 1, then a 0-to-1 transition of the corresponding

bit in the Questionable Condition register causes that bit in the Questionable Event register to be set.

K If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 1, then any transition of that bit at the

Questionable Condition register sets the corresponding bit in the Questionable Event register.

K If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 0, then no transition of that bit at the

Questionable Condition register can set the corresponding bit in the Questionable Event register.

STATus:QUEStionable:NTRansition<NRf>, (@<channel list>)

STATus:QUEStionable:PTRansition<NRf>, (@<channel list>)

0 to 32767

NTR register = 0; PTR register = 32767

STAT:QUES:NTR 16,(@1) STAT:QUES:PTR 512,(@1)

Command Syntax

Parameters

Preset Value

Examples

STAT:QUES:NTR? (@<channel list>)

STAT:QUES:PTR? (@<channel list>)

<NR1>(Register value)

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

STAT:QUES:ENAB

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6 – Language Dictionary

System Commands

System commands control system functions that are not directly related to output control or measurement

functions.

SYSTem:ERRor?

This query returns the next error number followed by its corresponding error message string from the

remote programming error queue. The queue is a FIFO (first-in, first-out) buffer that stores errors as they

occur. As it is read, each error is removed from the queue. When all errors have been read, the query

returns 0,NO ERROR. If more errors are accumulated than the queue can hold, the last error in the queue

will be -350,TOO MANY ERRORS (see Appendix C for other error codes).

SYSTem:ERRor?

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

Returned Parameters

Examples

SYST:ERR?

SYSTem:VERSion?

This query returns the SCPI version number to which the instrument complies. The returned value is of

the form YYYY.V, where YYYY represents the year and V is the revision number for that year.

SYSTem:VERSion?

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

<NR2>

SYST:VERS?

Returned Parameters

Examples

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Language Dictionary - 6

Trigger Commands

Trigger commands consist of trigger and initiate commands.

Initiate commands initialize the trigger system.

Trigger commands control the remote triggering of the dc source. They are used to generate output and

measurement triggers.

NOTE:

Before you generate a measurement trigger, you must specify either a voltage or current

measurement acquisition using the SENSe:FUNCtion command.

ABORt

This command cancels any trigger actions presently in process. Pending trigger levels are reset to their

corresponding immediate values. ABORt also resets the WTG bit in the status byte (see chapter 5 about

programming the status registers). ABORt is executed at power turn on and upon execution of *RST.

ABORt

None

ABOR

Command Syntax

Parameters

Examples

INIT *RST *TRG TRIG

Related Commands

INITiate:NAME

This command controls the enabling of both output and measurement triggers. When a trigger is enabled,

an event on a selected trigger source causes the specified triggering action to occur. If the trigger system

is not enabled, all triggers are ignored.

INITiate[:IMMediate]:NAME <name>

TRANsient | ACQuire

Command Syntax

Parameters

INIT:NAME TRAN

Examples

ABOR INIT:CONT TRIG *TRG

Related Commands

TRIGger:ACQuire

This command generates a measurement trigger. When the trigger system is initiated, the measurement

trigger causes the dc source to measure either the output voltage or current and store the results in a

buffer. The SENS:FUNC command determines which signal will be measured.

TRIGger:ACQuire[:IMMediate]

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

TRIG

TRIG:IMM

Examples

ABOR INIT

*TRG SENS:FUNC

Related Commands

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6 – Language Dictionary

TRIGger:ACQuire:SOURce

This command selects the trigger source for the measurement trigger system.

External trigger input signal

GPIB device, *TRG, or <GET> (Group Execute Trigger)

EXT

BUS

TRIGger:ACQuire:SOURce <source>

BUS | EXTernal

Command Syntax

Parameters

BUS

*RST Value

TRIG:ACQ:SOUR EXT

Examples

TRIGger:ACQuire:SOURce?

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

TRIGger[:TRANsient]:SOURce

This command selects the trigger source for the output trigger system.

External trigger input signal

GPIB device, *TRG, or <GET> (Group Execute Trigger)

EXTernal

BUS

TRIGger[:TRANsient]:SOURce <source>

BUS | EXTernal

Command Syntax

Parameters

BUS

*RST Value

TRIG:SOUR EXT

Examples

TRIGger[:TRANsient]:SOURce?

<CRD>

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters

TRIGger[:TRANsient]

This command generates an output trigger. Output triggers affect the following functions: voltage,

current, and current limit. To program an output trigger you must specify a trigger level for the selected

function, set the selected function to STEP mode, and initiate the trigger system.

Once these conditions are met, the output trigger will:

1. Initiate a pending level change as specified by [SOURce;]CURRent:TRIGgered,

[SOURce;]CURRent:LIMit:TRIGgered, or [SOURce;]VOLTage:TRIGgered.

2. Clear the WTG bit in the Status Operation Condition register after both transient and acquire trigger

sequences have completed. (WTG is the logical-or of both transient and acquire sequences.)

TRIGger[:TRANsient][:IMMediate]

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

TRIG

TRIG:IMM

Examples

ABOR INIT

*TRG VOLT:TRIG CURR:TRIG

Related Commands

CURR:LIM:TRIG CURR:MODE CURR:LIM:MODE

VOLT:MODE

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Language Dictionary - 6

Common Commands

*CLS

This command causes the following actions (see chapter 5 for the descriptions of all registers):

K Clears the Standard Event Status, Operation Status Event, and Questionable Status Event registers

K Clears the Status Byte and the Error Queue

K If *CLS immediately follows a program message terminator (<NL>), then the output queue and the

MAV bit are also cleared.

*CLS

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

*ESE

This command programs the Standard Event Status Enable register bits. The programming determines

which events of the Standard Event Status Event register (see *ESR?) are allowed to set the ESB (Event

Summary Bit) of the Status Byte register. A "1" in the bit position enables the corresponding event. All

of the enabled events of the Standard Event Status Event Register are logically ORed to cause the Event

Summary Bit (ESB) of the Status Byte Register to be set. The query reads the Standard Event The query

reads the Standard Event Status Enable register.

Table 6-6. Bit Configuration of Standard Event Status Enable Register

Bit Position

Bit Name

DDE

QUE

OPC

PON

128

CME

EXE

Bit Weight

PON = Power-on has occurred

CME = Command error

EXE = Execution error

DDE = Device-dependent error

QUE = Query error

OPC = Operation complete

*ESE <NRf>

0 to 255

Command Syntax

Parameters

Power-On Value

Examples

*ESE 129

*ESE?

Query Syntax

<NR1> (register value)

*ESR? *PSC *STB?

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

*ESR?

This query reads the Standard Event Status Event register. Reading the register clears it. The bit

configuration is the same as the Standard Event Status Enable register (see *ESE).

*ESR?

None

Query Syntax

Parameters

<NR1> (register binary value)

*CLS *ESE *ESE? *OPC

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

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6 – Language Dictionary

*IDN?

This query requests the dc source to identify itself. It returns a string composed of four fields separated

by commas.

*IDN?

Query Syntax

Returned Parameters <AARD>

Field

Information

Agilent Technologies Manufacturer

xxxxxA

<A>.xx.xx

model number followed by a letter suffix

zero or the unit's serial number if available

Revision levels of firmware.

AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES,N3280A,0,A.00.01

Example

*OPC

This command causes the instrument to set the OPC bit (bit 0) of the Standard Event Status register when

the dc source has completed all pending operations. (See *ESE for the bit configuration of the Standard

Event Status register.) Pending operations are complete when:

K all commands sent before *OPC have been executed. This includes overlapped commands. Most

commands are sequential and are completed before the next command is executed. Overlapped

commands are executed in parallel with other commands. Commands that affect output voltage,

current or state, relays, and trigger actions are overlapped with subsequent commands sent to the dc

source. The *OPC command provides notification that all overlapped commands have been

completed.

K all triggered actions are completed

*OPC does not prevent processing of subsequent commands, but bit 0 will not be set until all pending

operations are completed.

*OPC? causes the instrument to place an ASCII "1" in the Output Queue when all pending operations are

completed. Unlike *OPC, *OPC? prevents processing of all subsequent commands. It is intended to be

used at the end of a command line so that the application program can then monitor the bus for data until

it receives the "1" from the dc source Output Queue.

*OPC

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

*OPC?

Query Syntax

<NR1> 1

*OPC *TRIG *WAI

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

*OPT?

This query requests the dc source to identify any options that are installed. Options are identified by

number. A 0 indicates no options are installed.

*OPT?

Query Syntax

<AARD>

Returned Parameters

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Language Dictionary - 6

*RST

This command resets the dc source to a factory-defined state as defined in the following table. *RST also

forces an ABORt command.

Table 6-7. *RST Settings

CAL:STAT

OUTP

OUTP:OSCP

SENS:CURR:RANG

SENS:FUNC

SENS:SWE:NPLC

OFF

VOLT

.00912 (60 Hz);

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM:TRIG

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM:BWID

[SOUR:]CURR:LIM:MODE

[SOUR:]FUNC:MODE

[SOUR:]DEL

1E−3

30000

FIXed

VOLT

.0076 (50 Hz)

[SOUR:]DEL:MODE

[SOUR:]VOLT:ALC:BWID

[SOUR:]VOLT

AUTO

30000

SENS:SWE:POIN

SENS:SWE:OFFS:POIN

SENS:SWE:TINT

SENS:WIND

[SOUR:]CURR

[SOUR:]CURR:TRIG

[SOUR:]CURR:MODE

[SOUR:]VOLT:TRIG

[SOUR:]VOLT:MODE

[SOUR:]VOLT:PROT:STAT

TRIG:ACQ:SOUR

30.4E−6

RECTangular

FIXed

BUS

FIXed

TRIG:SOUR

*RST

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

*SRE

This command sets the condition of the Service Request Enable Register. This register determines which

bits from the Status Byte Register (see *STB for its bit configuration) are allowed to set the Master

Status Summary (MSS) bit and the Request for Service (RQS) summary bit. A 1 in any Service Request

Enable Register bit position enables the corresponding Status Byte Register bit and all such enabled bits

then are logically ORed to cause Bit 6 of the Status Byte Register to be set.

When the controller conducts a serial poll in response to SRQ, the RQS bit is cleared, but the MSS bit is

not. When *SRE is cleared (by programming it with 0), the dc source cannot generate an SRQ to the

controller. The query returns the current state of *SRE.

*SRE <NRf>

0 to 255

Command Syntax

Parameters

Power-on Value

Example

*SRE 20

*SRE?

Query Syntax

<NR1> (register binary value)

*ESE *ESR

Returned Parameters

Related Commands

*STB?

This query reads the Status Byte register, which contains the status summary bits and the Output Queue

MAV bit. Reading the Status Byte register does not clear it. The input summary bits are cleared when

the appropriate event registers are read. The MAV bit is cleared at power-on, by *CLS' or when there is

no more response data available.

A serial poll also returns the value of the Status Byte register, except that bit 6 returns Request for

Service (RQS) instead of Master Status Summary (MSS). A serial poll clears RQS, but not MSS. When

MSS is set, it indicates that the dc source has one or more reasons for requesting service.

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6 – Language Dictionary

Table 6-8. Bit Configuration of Status Byte Register

Bit Position

Bit Name

ESB

OPER

MSS

(RQS)

MAV

QUES

WTG

Bit Value

128

OPER = Operation status summary

MSS = Master status summary

(RQS) = Request for service

MAV = Message available

QUES = Questionable status summary

WAI = Waiting for a trigger

ESB = Event status byte summary

*STB?

Query Syntax

<NR1> (register binary value)

Returned Parameters

*TRG

This common command generates a trigger when the trigger subsystem has BUS selected as its source.

The command has the same affect as the Group Execute Trigger (<GET>) command.

*TRG

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

ABOR INIT TRIG[:IMM] <GET>

Related Commands

*TST?

This query causes the dc source to do a self-test and report any errors. 0 indicates that the dc source

passed self-test. 1 indicates that one or more tests failed. Selftest errors are written to the error queue (see

Appendix C).

TST?

Query Syntax

<NR1>

Returned Parameters

*WAI

This command instructs the dc source not to process any further commands until all pending operations

are completed. "Pending operations" are as defined under the *OPC command. *WAI can be aborted

only by sending the dc source an GPIB DCL (Device Clear) command.

*WAI

None

Command Syntax

Parameters

*OPC* OPC?

Related Commands

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Specifications

Introduction

Table A-1 lists the specifications of the dc source. Unless otherwise noted, specifications are warranted

at 25°C 5°C after a 30-minute warm-up period. Sense terminals must be connected to their respective

output terminals.

Table A-1. Specifications

Parameter

Voltage Priority

Current Priority

Output Ratings

(refer to derating

characteristic)

Voltage:

-10.25V to +10.25V

-8V to +8V (min. with full resistive load)

-11.25V to +11.25V (max. with no load)

Current:

- 0.5125A to +0.5125A

- 0.5125 mA to +0.5125 mA

Programming Accuracy

Voltage

+ Current Limit:

- Current Limit:

Current:

0.1% 2mV

N/A

0.1% 50µA

N/A

0.1% 1µA

Voltage:

0.5A Curr. Range:

15mA Curr. Range:

0.5mA Curr. Range:

0.1% 2mV (5 points)

Readback Accuracy

0.1% 200µA (5 points)

0.1% 5µA (5 points)

0.1% 200nA (1 PLC)

0.380mV

4mV

0.1% 200nA ( 1 PLC)

Ripple and Noise

(In the range of

20 Hz to 20 MHz )

Voltage (rms) :

N/A

1.5µA

N/A

25nA

N/A

10nA

N/A

90µs

Voltage (p-p) :

Current Limit (rms) :

40µA

N/A

Current (rms) :

Load Effect

Voltage:

+ Current Limit:

- Current Limit:

Current:

400µV

30µA

(Change from no load to full

load or full load to no load

by varying a resistive load)

N/A

Source Effect

Voltage:

+ Current Limit:

- Current Limit:

Current:

200µV

10µA

(change in output voltage or

current for any line change

within ratings)

N/A

Output Transient

Response

Voltage (@ 10kHz) :

60µs

45µs

35µs

N/A

(@ 20kHz):

(@ 30kHz):

Current :

Voltage accuracy specification in voltage priority mode guaranteed between –10.25V to +10.25V. 0.5A current range accuracy specification

in voltage priority mode guaranteed between –0.5125A and +0.5125A. Readback for Voltage, 0.5A, and 15mA current ranges is based on

capturing 5 data points at intervals of 30.4µs and averaging the readings. Readback for 0.5mA current range is based on averaging the readings

over 1 power line cycle (60 Hz = 548 points @ 30.4µs). The default setting for all readback ranges is the average of 5 data points 30.4µs apart.

Program Vset to 10V using a 20 ohm load resistor.

Program current to +500mA using a 20 ohm load resistor. Program Vset to 10.25V.

Program current to 0.5mA using a 16K ohm load resistor.

Measured with a 10uF output capacitor with 0.2 ohm ESR across the output with the current limit set to +0.5125A. The load current rise time

is approximately 10us for a current change of 0.25Ato 0.5A or 0.5A to 0.25A. Measure the output voltage recovery time to within 40mV of its

final value.

Measured following a voltage change of –1V to +1V or +1V to –1V with approximately 25us time constant with the current priority current

level set to 0uA. Measure the output current recovery time to within 1mA of its final value.

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A - Specifications

Table A-2 lists the supplemental characteristics, which are not warranted but are descriptions of typical

performance determined either by design or type testing.

Table A-2 Supplemental Characteristics

Parameter

Voltage Priority

-10.25V to 10.25V

75µA to 0.5125A

tracks + Current Limit

N/A

Current Priority

Output Programming

Limits

Voltage:

+ Current Limit¹:

- Current Limit:

Current:

N/A

- 0.5125mA to +0.5125mA

Programming

Resolution

Voltage:

16 bits / 312µV

16 bits / 8µA

N/A

+ Current Limit:

- Current Limit:

Current:

N/A

16 bits / 16nA

Programming

Accuracy

Temperature

Coefficients

Voltage:

90 ppm + 80µV

110 ppm + 5µA

N/A

+ Current Limit:

- Current Limit:

Current:

70 ppm + 30nA

N/A

Bandwidth

Voltage²:

10kHz; 20kHz; 30kHz

10kHz; 30kHz

-13.25V to +13.25V

-0.6A to +0.6A

-15.375mA to +15.375mA

-0.5125mA to +0.5125mA

+/-Current Limit³:

Voltage:

N/A

Typical Output

Readback Ranges

-13.25V to +13.25V

-0.5125mA to +0.5125mA

0.5A Curr. Range:

15mA Curr. Range:

0.5mA Curr. Range:

Voltage:

Readback

Resolution

16 bits / 312µV

16 bits / 18µA

16 bits / 460nA

16 bits / 16nA

16 bits / 312µV

16 bits / 16nA

0.5A Curr. Range:

15mA Curr. Range:

0.5mA Curr. Range:

Voltage:

Readback

Accuracy

Temperature

70 ppm + 100µV

60 ppm + 5µA

40 ppm + 40nA

30 ppm + 2nA

70 ppm + 100µV

30 ppm + 2nA

0.5A Curr. Range:

15mA Curr. Range:

0.5mA Curr. Range:

Voltage:

Coefficient

DC Readback speed⁴

(with no change on the

output)

1.3ms (5 points)

0.5A Curr. Range:

15mA Curr. Range:

0.5mA Curr. Range:

Peak Current Limit

1.3A (typical)

5mA (typical)

(not programmable)

CV to CL mode

crossover⁵

Voltage Programming

Settling Time⁶

Programming Output

Rise Time

Vset = 5V, Curr. Limit = 0.5125A:

Vset = 10V, Curr. Limit = 0.1A:

Voltage (to within 20mV@10kHz):

Voltage (to within 20mV@30kHz):

Voltage⁷(10% to 90% @10kHz):

+Curr. Lim⁸(10% to 90%):

-Curr. Lim⁹(10% to 90%):

Current¹⁰(-80% to +80%):

1A for 200µs (typical)

0.2A for 600µs (typical)

N/A

420µs

350µs

150µs

450µs

N/A

160µs

1 If current limit is programmed less than 75uA, the current limit will be set to 75µA (no error will be generated).

Approximate voltage loop bandwidth with no external capacitor.

Approximate current limit circuit bandwidth with output shorted.

Time from the start of bus communication to final byte returned on bus. Assumes the default of 5 data points 30.4µs apart.

With any voltage bandwidth setting, and 30kHz current limit bandwidth setting.

6 With a 20 ohm load resistor and current limit set to +0.5125A, program voltage 0V to 10V. Measure time for voltage to settle

within 20mV of final value.

With 20 ohm load resistor and current limit set to +0.5125A, program voltage from 0V to 10V.

With 20 ohm load resistor and voltage set to 10.25V, program current limit from 0A to 0.5A.

With 20 ohm load resistor and voltage set to –10.25V, program current limit from 0A to 0.5A.

With 1k load resistor, program current from –0.5mA to +0.5mA. Measure time from –0.4mA to +0.4mA.

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Specifications - A

Table A-2 Supplemental Characteristics (continued)

Parameter

Programming Output

Voltage Priority

Current Priority

Voltage¹¹(90% to 10%

@10kHz):

150µs

450µs

N/A

Fall Time

+Curr Lim¹²(90% to 10%):

-Curr Lim¹³(90% to 10%):

Current¹⁴(-80% to +80%):

160µs

Maximum Output

Cable Impedance

Lead R:

Lead L:

1Ω

10µH

100µH

Overvoltage Protection

Positive:

Negative:

+11.5V 0.3V

-11.5V 0.3V

N/A

Output Common Mode

Current ¹⁶

(shorting either Hi or Low

terminal to the chassis)

<2µA rms

Trigger in

Chassis ground referenced TTL levels.

Trigger latency

GPIB Interface

Capabilities

30µs maximum

AH1, C0, DC1, DT1, E1,

L4, PP0, RL1, SH1, SR1, T6

Output Derating

Full current to 40° C.

Linearly derated to 50% of full current at 55° C.

Accomplished via solid state disconnect relays.

Output impedance in open state is approximately 100K

Full current @40° C.

Output Disconnect

Altitude Derating

Up to 7500 feet:

> 7500 feet up to 15000

feet:

Derated by 1.1 degrees C for every additional 1000 feet

Secondary Isolation

To Chassis:

Output to Output:

50V

100V

RFI

Level A

Safety

UL, CSA, CE

Regulatory Compliance

Listing pending:

Certified to:

Conforms to:

Complies with:

UL 3111-1

CSA 22.2 No. 1010.1

IEC 1010-1, EN 61010-1

EMC directive 89/336/EEC (ISM group 1 Class A)

1 Year

Calibration Interval

Dimensions

Height:

Width:

Depth:

3.5” (88.9 mm)

8 3/8” (212.7 mm)

19.6” (497.8 mm)

26 lbs (11.8 kg)

Weight

Shipping:

Net:

22 lbs (10 kg)

RMS Input

Current

Peak Inrush

current

Full Load

Input Power

Input

Voltage Range

Line Fuse

3.15AT

1.6AT

Typ.

Max.

1.85A

1.55A

0.90A

0.80A

Typ.

Max.

60A

53A

40A

36A

Typ.

Max.

140W

100 Vac (87-106 Vac):

120 Vac (104-127 Vac):

220 Vac (191-233 Vac):

230 Vac (207-253 Vac):

1.75A

1.4A

0.8A

0.7A

56A

48A

34A

32A

130W

1.6AT

With no load and current limit set to +0.5125A, program voltage from 10V to 0V.

With 20 ohm load resistor and voltage set to 10.25V, program current limit from 0.5A to 0A.

With 20 ohm load resistor and voltage set to –10.25V program current limit from 0.5A to 0A.

With 1k load resistor, program current from +0.5mA to –0.5mA. Measure time from +0.4mA to –0.4mA.

Output is shut down and output relays are opened

Measurement taken with ammeter having approx. 1k shunt resistance and 10Hz to 1kHz bandwidth. Input ac is 120V, 60Hz.

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A - Specifications

128

Phase

-45

Phase

0.5

0.25

0.125

-90

-45

-90

10k

100k

10k

100k

FREQUENCY (Hz)

CURRENT LIMIT (bandwidth = 30kHz)

VOLTAGE PRIORITY (bandwidth = 30kHz)

Phase

-45

Phase

0.5

0.25

0.125

-90

-45

-90

10k

100k

10k

100k

FREQUENCY (Hz)

CURRENT LIMIT (bandwidth = 10kHz)

VOLTAGE PRIORITY (bandwidth = 20kHz)

32k

16k

Phase

-45

Phase

0.5

0.25

0.125

-90

-45

500

250

125

62.5

-90

10k

100k

10k

100k

FREQUENCY (Hz)

VOLTAGE PRIORITY (bandwidth = 10kHz)

CURRENT PRIORITY MODE

Figure A-1. Output Impedance Graphs (all outputs)

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Performance Tests and Calibration

Introduction

This appendix contains test procedures to verify that the dc source is operating normally and is within

published specifications. There are three types of tests as follows:

These tests run automatically when the dc source is turned on. They

check most of the digital circuits and the programming and readback

DACs.

Built-in Self Tests

Turn on Checkout

These tests, described in chapter four, provide a high degree of

confidence that your unit is operating properly.

These tests, documented in this appendix, verify that the dc source is

properly calibrated, and that the dc source meets all of the specifications

listed in Appendix A

Calibration Verification

/Performance Tests

If the dc source fails any of the tests or if abnormal test results are obtained after performing a

calibration, return the unit to an Agilent Technologies repair facility.

This appendix also includes calibration procedures for the Agilent N3280A. Instructions are given for

performing the procedures from a controller over the GPIB.

IMPORTANT: Perform the Programming Accuracy and Readback Accuracy tests before calibrating

your dc source. If the dc source passes the Programming Accuracy and Readback

Accuracy tests, the unit is operating within its calibration limits and does not need to be

re-calibrated.

Equipment Required

The equipment listed in the following table, or the equivalent to this equipment, is required for the

calibration and performance tests. A test record sheet with specification limits (when test using the

recommended test equipment) may be found at the back of this section.

Table B-1. Equipment Required

Type

Specifications

Recommended Model

Digital multimeter

Resolution: 10nV @ 1V; Readout: 8 1/2

digits; Accuracy: 20 ppm

Agilent 3458A or

equivalent

Electronic load

GPIB controller

20 V, 5A minimum, with transient capability Agilent N3300A

mainframe, with N3303A

module 6063A/B

and a a slew rate of 0.833A/µs or better.

Full GPIB capabilities (only required if you

are calibrating the unit over the GPIB)

HP Series 200/300 or PC

with GPIB capability

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Table B-1. Equipment Required (continued)

Oscilloscope

Sensitivity: 1 mV/div.

Bandwidth Limit: 20 to 30 MHz

Probe: 1:1 with RF tip

Agilent Infinium or

equivalent

RMS voltmeter

True RMS

Bandwidth: 20 Mhz min.

Sensitivity: 100 µV

Rhode & Schwartz

Model URE3 RMS-P-P

Voltmeter

Variable-voltage transformer Adjustable to highest rated input voltage Agilent 6800 series

or ac source

range. Power: 500 VA

Tektronixs current probe

20mA/div

AM503B

amplifier and power module

TM501 or 2A

Pulse/function generator

Load resistor, 20 ohms

Resistor 0.2 ohm

+/- 1V Square Wave , 400-1kHz

20 ohm 10W

Agilent 8116A

0811-3896 or equivalent

5 – 0699-0208 or equivalent

0757-0280 or equivalent

0757-0449 or equivalent

0757-0447 or equivalent

0757-0706 or equivalent

5- 1 ohm resistors in parallel

1k ohm for 15mA range accuracy

20k ohm for 0.5mA range accuracy

16.2k ohm for rms noise measurements

Resistor 1k ohm

Resistor 20K ohm

Resistor 16k ohm

Resistor 50 ohm

50 ohm series resistor for noise

measurements

Capacitor 10uF for voltage

transient response

3- 3.3uF film type capacitors in parallel

3 – 0160-7308 or equivalent

1060-0970 or equivalent

Capacitor for current

transient response

0.47uF film type capacitor

Performance & Verification Tests

Enter all of the performance test results and calculated measurements in the Performance Test Record

Form that is provided at the end of this section.

Measurement Techniques

If more than one meter or if a meter and an oscilloscope are used, connect each to the terminals by a

separate pair of leads to avoid mutual coupling effects. For constant voltage dc tests, connect only to HI

sense and LO sense terminals, since the unit regulates the voltage that appears at the sense terminals, not

the output terminals. Use twisted-pair wiring to avoid noise pickup on the test leads.

NOTE: When using the Agilent 3458A as an ammeter, always select the specific current measurement

range that you will be using. Do not use the autoranging feature of the ammeter, as this may

introduce noise in your current measurements by toggling between measurement ranges.

Always use the lowest range possible to provide the best measurement accuracy.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Electronic Load

Many of the test procedures require the use of a variable load capable of dissipating the required power.

For most tests, an electronic load is considerably easier to use than load resistors, but it may not be fast

enough to test transient recovery time and may be too noisy for the noise (PARD) tests.

NOTE:

When using an electronic load with a bi-polar dc source, be sure to reverse the polarity

of the load connections to match the appropriate polarity.

Fixed load resistors may be used in place of a variable load, with minor changes to the test procedures. If

resistors are used, switches should also used to connect, disconnect, or short the load resistors.

Programming

You can only program the dc source from a GPIB controller when performing the tests. The test

procedures are written assuming that you know how to program the dc source remotely from an GPIB

controller. Also, when performing the verification tests from a GPIB controller, you may have to

consider the relatively slow settling times and slew rates of the dc source as compared to computer and

system voltmeters. Suitable WAIT statements can be inserted into the test program to give the dc source

time to respond to the test commands.

Test Setup

OUTPUT 1 MATING PLUG SHOWN

Hsen Hi Lo Lsen

DC voltmeter

DC ammeter

Scope

DC voltmeter

DC ammeter

Hsen Hi Lo Lsen

Current

Probe

(optional)

Electronic

Load

Current

Probe

Scope

RMS meter

Function

Generator

Scope

Figure B-1. Verification and Calibration Test Setup

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Voltage Priority Tests

Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy

These tests verify that the voltage programming and GPIB readback functions are within specifications.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the dc source and connect a DVM as shown in Figure B-1a.

Connect the DVM directly across the HI and LO sense terminals.

(*RST resets the dc source to its default settings with the output off.)

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the current limit to 0.5125A.

Measure the output voltage and current.

“CURR:LIM 0.5125,(@1)”

“MEAS:VOLT? (@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

Set the DVM to the 10V range, and record the output voltage reading.

The DVM reading and measurement query result should be within the

limits specified in the performance test record card under Voltage

Priority Programming Accuracy @0V and Readback Accuracy @0V.

(The current measurement query result should be approximately zero.)

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

“MEAS:VOLT? (@1)”

Program the output voltage to full-scale positive output. Measure the

output voltage.

Record the output voltage reading on the DVM. The DVM reading

should be within the limits specified in the test record card under

Voltage Priority Programming Accuracy @ +10V. The difference

between the DVM reading and the measurement query result should

be within the limits specified under Readback Accuracy @ +10V.

“VOLT -10,(@1)”

“MEAS:VOLT? (@1)”

Program the output voltage to full-scale negative output. Measure the

output voltage.

Record the output voltage reading on the DVM. The DVM reading

should be within the limits specified in the test record card under

Voltage Priority Programming Accuracy @ -10V. The difference

between the DVM reading and the measurement query result should

be within the limits specified under Readback Accuracy @ -10V.

Positive Current Limit (+CL)

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the dc source and connect an ammeter directly across the HI and

LO terminals as shown in Figure B-1a.

(*RST resets the dc source to its default settings with the output off.)

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the output voltage to 10 volts.

(The default output current limit is set to 1mA.)

Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The ammeter reading should be within the

limits specified in the performance test record card under Voltage

Priority Programming Accuracy + 1mA Current limit.

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

Program the output current limit to 0.5A. Measure the output current.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The ammeter reading should be within the

limits specified in the test record card under Voltage Priority

Programming Accuracy + 0.5A Current limit. The difference between

the ammeter reading and the measurement query result should be

within the limits specified under Readback Accuracy + 0.5A current.

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the output and connect a 1k ohm resistor in series with the

ammeter across the output as shown in Figure B-1c. You do not need

a shorting switch.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SENS:CURR:RANG 0.015,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

Turn on the output and program the 15mA current readback range.

Measure the output current.

Set the ammeter to the 10mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The difference between the ammeter reading

and the measurement query result should be within the limits specified

Readback Accuracy +15mA Current Limit.

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the output and connect a 20k ohm resistor in series with the

ammeter across the output as shown in Figure B-1c. You do not need

a shorting switch.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SENS:CURR:RANG 0.0005,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

10. Turn on the output and program the 0.5mA current readback range.

Measure the output current.

11. Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The difference between the ammeter reading

and the measurement query result should be within the limits specified

Readback Accuracy +0.5mA Current Limit.

Negative Current Limit (-CL)

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the dc source and connect an ammeter directly across the HI and

LO terminals as shown in Figure B-1a.

(*RST resets the dc source to its default settings with the output off.)

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT −10,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the output voltage to −10 volts.

(The default output current limit is set to 1mA.)

Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The ammeter reading should be within the

limits specified in the performance test record card under Voltage

Priority Programming Accuracy −1mA Current limit.

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

Program the output current limit to 0.5A. Measure the output current.

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The ammeter reading should be within the

limits specified in the test record card under Voltage Priority

Programming Accuracy −0.5A Current limit. The difference between

the ammeter reading and the measurement query result should be

within the limits specified under Readback Accuracy −0.5A current.

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the output and connect a 1k ohm resistor in series with the

ammeter across the output as shown in Figure B-1c. You do not need

a shorting switch.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SENS:CURR:RANG 0.015,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

Turn on the output and program the 15mA current readback range.

Measure the output current.

Set the ammeter to the 10mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The difference between the ammeter reading

and the measurement query result should be within the limits specified

Readback Accuracy −15mA Current Limit.

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the output and connect a 20k ohm resistor in series with the

ammeter across the output as shown in Figure B-1c. You do not need

a shorting switch.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SENS:CURR:RANG 0.0005,(@1)”

“MEAS:CURR? (@1)”

10. Turn on the output and program the 0.5mA current readback range.

Measure the output current.

11. Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The difference between the ammeter reading

and the measurement query result should be within the limits specified

Readback Accuracy −0.5mA Current Limit.

Current Priority Tests

Current Programming and Readback Accuracy

NOTE:

The voltage limits in Current Priority Mode are not programmable.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the dc source and connect an ammeter directly across the HI and

LO terminals as shown in Figure B-1a.

(*RST resets the dc source to its default settings with the output off.)

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Current Priority mode.

(The default output current is set to 0A.)

Set the ammeter to the 1µA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The reading should be within the limits

specified in the performance test record card under Current Priority

Programming Accuracy @ 0A.

“CURR 0.0005,(@1)”

“CURR -0.0005,(@1)”

Program the output current to 0.5mA. Measure the output current.

Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The reading should be within the limits

specified in the performance test record card under Current Priority

Programming Accuracy @ 0.5mA.

Program the output current to −0.5mA. Measure the output current.

Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter. The reading should be within the limits

specified in the performance test record card under Current Priority

Programming Accuracy @ −0.5mA.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Load Effect Tests

The following tests verify the dc regulation of the output voltage and current. To insure that the values

read are truly dc and not affected by output ripple, several dc measurements should be made and the

average of these readings calculated. An example of how to do this is given below using an Agilent

3458A System Voltmeter programmed from the front panel. Set up the voltmeter and execute the

"Average Reading" program follows:

a. Program 10 power line cycles per sample by pressing NPLC 1 0 ENTER .

b. Program 100 samples per trigger by pressing (N Rdgs/Trig) 1 0 0 ENTER .

c. Set up voltmeter to take measurements in the statistical mode as follows:

Press Shift key, f0, Shift key, N

Press ^ (up arrow) until MATH function is selected, then press >.

Press ^ (up arrow until STAT function is selected then press (ENTER).

d. Set up voltmeter to read the average of the measurements as follows:

Press Shift key, f1, Shift key, N.

Press down arrow until RMATH function is selected, then press >.

Press ^ (up arrow) until MEAN function is selected, then press ENTER.

e. Execute the program by pressing f0, ENTER, TRIG, ENTER

f. Wait for 100 readings and then read the average measurement by pressing f1, ENTER.

To repeat the measurement, perform steps (e) and (f).

Voltage Priority, Constant Voltage Load Effect

This test measures the change in output voltage resulting from a change in output current from about zero

amps to about 0.5 amps.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1b

with the DMM across the HI and LO sense terminals. Connect the 20

ohm load resistor and switch across the HI and LO output terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5125,(@1)”

Start with the load disconnected (switch open). Turn on the dc source,

program the output voltage to the full-scale value (10.0V), and the

current limit to the maximum value (0.5125A).

Set the DVM to the 10V range, and record the output voltage reading.

(zero-load value)

Connect the 20 ohm load resistor across the output (close the switch).

Keep the DVM connected.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the CV mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “1” for CV mode.

If it is not in CV mode, use a slightly higher value resistor so that the

output current drops slightly.

Record the output voltage reading on the DVM. (full-load value)

The difference between these two DVM readings is the Load Effect

voltage and should be within the limits listed in the performance test

record card under Voltage Priority Load Effect Voltage.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Voltage Priority, +Current Limit Load Effect

This test measures the change in output current resulting from a change in output voltage from about zero

volts to about 10 volts.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1c

with an ammeter in series with a 20 ohm load resistor across the Hi and

Lo output terminals. Also connect a shorting switch across the resistor.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10.25,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

Start with a short across the output (switch closed). Turn on the dc

source and program the output voltage to the maximum positive value

(+10.25V), and the current limit to 0.5A.

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the output current reading

on the ammeter. (shorted-output value)

Remove the short (open the switch) from the output of the dc source.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the +CL mode.

This query should return a Bit value of “2” for +CL mode.

If it is not in +CL mode, decrease the current limit setting slightly. If

you adjusted the current limit, close the switch and go back to step 3.

Record the output current reading on the ammeter. (full-load current

value)

The difference between the two current readings is the Load effect

current and should be within the limits listed in the performance test

record card under Voltage Priority Source Effect +Current.

Voltage Priority, -Current Limit Load Effect Test

This test measures the change in output current resulting from a change in output voltage from about zero

volts to about −10 volts.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1c

with an ammeter in series with a 20 ohm load resistor across the Hi and

Lo output terminals. Also connect a shorting switch across the resistor.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT –10.25,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

Start with a short across the output (switch closed). Turn on the dc

source and program the output voltage to the maximum negative value

(–10.25V), and the current limit to 0.5A.

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the output current reading

on the ammeter. (shorted-output value)

Remove the short (open the switch) from the output of the dc source.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the –CL mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “4” for –CL mode.

If it is not in –CL mode, decrease the current limit setting slightly. If

you adjusted the current limit, close the switch and go back to step 3.

Record the output current reading on the ammeter. (full-load current

value)

The difference between the two current readings is the Load effect

current and should be within the limits listed in the performance test

record card under Voltage Priority Source Effect –Current.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Current Priority Constant Current Test

This test measures the change in output current resulting from a change in output voltage from about zero

volts to the maximum output voltage.

NOTE:

The voltage limits in Current Priority Mode are not programmable.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1c

with an ammeter in series with a 16k ohm load resistor across the Hi

and Lo output terminals. Also connect a shorting switch across the

resistor.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR,(@1)”

“CURR 0.0005,(@1)”

Start with a short across the output (switch closed). Turn on the dc

source and program the Current Priority mode. Program the current to

the maximum value (0.5mA).

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the output current

reading on the ammeter (shorted-output value).

Remove the short from the output (open the switch).

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the CC mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “8” for CC mode.

Record the output current reading on the ammeter (full-load current

value).

The difference between the two current readings is the Load Effect

current and should be within the limits listed in the performance test

record card for the appropriate model under Current Priority Load

Effect Current.

Source Effect Tests

These tests measure the change in output voltage or current that results from a change in ac line voltage

from the minimum to maximum value within the line voltage specifications. The tests should all be done

at 60Hz line frequency.

Voltage Priority, Constant Voltage Source Effect

Action

Program Commands

Connect the ac input of the dc source to a variable voltage transformer

(or ac source). Set the transformer to nominal line voltage.

Connect the output as shown in Figure B-1b with a 20 ohm resistor or an

electronic load across the output terminals and a DVM across the Hi

and Lo sense terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5125,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source, program the output voltage to the full-scale value

(10.0V), and the current limit to the maximum value (0.5125A).

If you are using an electronic load, adjust it for the full-scale output

current, 0.5A.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it's in the CV mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “1” for CV mode.

If it is not in CV mode, adjust the load or the output voltage slightly

until the unit goes into CV mode.

Adjust the transformer to the lowest rated line voltage.

(e.g., 104 Vac for a 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Set the DVM to the 10V range, and record the output voltage reading on

the DVM. (low-line value)

Adjust the transformer to the highest rated line voltage.

(e.g., 127 Vac for 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Record the output voltage reading on the DVM. (high-line value)

The difference between the low-line and the high-line value is the source

effect voltage and should be within the limits listed in the performance

test record card under Voltage Priority Source Effect Voltage.

Voltage Priority, +Current Limit Source Effect

Action

Program Commands

Connect the ac input of the dc source to a variable voltage transformer

(or ac source). Set the transformer to nominal line voltage.

Connect the output as shown in Figure B-1a with an ammeter directly

across the Hi and Lo output terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10.25,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the output voltage to the maximum

positive value (+10.25V), and the current limit to 0.5A.

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the +CL mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “2” for +CL mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Adjust the transformer to the lowest rated line voltage

(e.g., 104 Vac for a 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the current reading on the

ammeter. (low-line value)

Adjust the transformer to the highest rated line voltage

(e.g., 127 Vac for 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Record the current reading on the ammeter. (high-line value)

The difference between the low-line and the high-line values is the

source effect voltage and should be within the limits listed in the

performance test record card under Voltage Priority Source Effect

+Current Limit.

Voltage Priority, -Current Limit Source Effect

Action

Program Commands

Connect the ac input of the dc source to a variable voltage transformer

(or ac source). Set the transformer to nominal line voltage.

Connect the output as shown in Figure B-1a with an ammeter directly

across the Hi and Lo output terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT -10.25,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the output voltage to the maximum

negative value (–10.25V), and the current limit to 0.5A.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the –CL mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “4” for –CL mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Adjust the transformer to the lowest rated line voltage

(e.g., 104 Vac for a 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Set the ammeter to the 1A range, and record the current reading on the

ammeter. (low-line value)

Adjust the transformer to the highest rated line voltage

(e.g., 127 Vac for 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Record the current reading on the ammeter. (high-line value)

The difference between the low-line and the high-line values is the

source effect voltage and should be within the limits listed in the

performance test record card under Voltage Priority Source Effect

–Current Limit.

Current Priority, Constant Current Source Effect

NOTE:

The voltage limits in Current Priority Mode are not programmable.

Action

Program Commands

Connect the ac input of the dc source to a variable voltage transformer

(or ac source). Set the transformer to nominal line voltage.

Connect the output as shown in Figure B-1a with an ammeter directly

across the Hi and Lo output terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR,(@1)”

“CURR 0.0005,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Current Priority mode.

Program the current to 0.5mA.

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the CC mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “8” for CC mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Adjust the transformer to the lowest rated line voltage

(e.g., 104 Vac for a 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Set the ammeter to the 1mA range, and record the current reading on the

ammeter. (low-line value)

Adjust the transformer to the highest rated line voltage

(e.g., 127 Vac for 120 Vac nominal line voltage input).

Record the current reading on the ammeter. (high-line value)

The difference between the low-line and the high-line values is the

source effect current and should be within the limits listed in the

performance test record card under Current Priority Source Effect

Current.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Ripple and Noise Tests

Voltage Priority Ripple and Noise

Periodic and random deviations (PARD) in the output (ripple and noise) combine to produce a residual

ac voltage superimposed on the dc output voltage. PARD is specified as the rms or peak-to-peak output

voltage in the frequency range specified in Appendix A.

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1d

to an oscilloscope (ac coupled) between the HI and LO terminals. (You

can use the Model URE3 P-P Voltmeter in place of the scope.)

Remember to include a 50 ohm series resistor at the dc source end of the

cable. Also connect a 20 ohm load resistor across the HI and LO

terminals. Set the scope's bandwidth limit to 20 MHz. Use shielded

cable < 1 meter in length if possible. Attach the cable as close to the dc

source connector as possible.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5125,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Voltage Priority mode (this is the

default mode). Program the output voltage to the full-scale value

(10.0V), and the current limit to the maximum value (0.5125A).

Note that the waveform on the oscilloscope should not exceed the peak-

to-peak limit in the performance test record card under Voltage Priority

PARD Voltage (peak to peak).

Disconnect the oscilloscope and connect an ac rms voltmeter in its

place. The rms voltage reading should be within the rms limit in the

performance test record card for the appropriate model under Voltage

Priority PARD Voltage (rms).

“VOLT 10.25,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.45,(@1)”

Program the output voltage to the maximum positive value (+10.25V),

and the current limit to 0.45A.

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the +CL mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “2” for +CL mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

If it is not in +CL mode, decrease the current limit setting slightly.

Divide the voltage reading of the ac rms voltmeter by 20 (the value of

the load resistor). The result should be within the limit in the

performance test record card under Voltage Priority PARD Current

Limit.

“VOLT −10,(@1)”

Program the output voltage to the maximum negative value (–10.25V).

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the −CL mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “4” for −CL mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

If it is not in −CL mode, decrease the current limit setting slightly.

10. Divide the voltage reading of the ac rms voltmeter by 20 (the value of

the load resistor). The result should be within the limit in the

performance test record card under Voltage Priority PARD Current

Limit.

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Current Priority Ripple and Noise

Periodic and random deviations (PARD) in the output combine to produce a residual ac current, as well

as an ac voltage superimposed on the dc output. PARD is specified as the rms output current in a

frequency range specified in Appendix A.

NOTE:

The voltage limits in Current Priority Mode are not programmable.

Action

Program Commands

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as shown in Figure B-1d

to an ac rms voltmeter. Remember to include a 50 ohm series resistor at

the dc source end of the cable. Also connect a 16k ohm load resistor

across the HI and LO terminals.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR,(@1)”

“CURR 0.0005,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Current Priority mode. Program

the current to the maximum value (0.5mA).

Read back the N3280A status to be sure that it’s in the CC mode. This

query should return a Bit value of “8” for CC mode.

“STAT:OPER:COND? (@1)”

Divide the voltage reading ac rms voltmeter by 16k (the value of the

load resistor). The result should be within the limit in the performance

test record card under Current Priority PARD Current.

Transient Response Tests

Voltage Priority, Transient Recovery Time

This test measures the time for the output voltage to recover to within the specified value following a

50% change in the load current using an RC network of a 10µF capacitor and 0.2 ohm resistor across the

output. The test must be performed in all three bandwidths: 10kHz, 20kHz, and 30kHz.

Action

Program Commands

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as in Figure B-1e with

the oscilloscope across the HI and LO sense terminals. Remember to

connect the RC network (10µF & 0.2 ohm).

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE VOLT,(@1)”

“VOLT 10,(@1)”

“CURR:LIM 0.5,(@1)”

“VOLT:ALC:BWID 10000,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Voltage Priority mode (this is

the default mode). Program the output voltage to the full-scale value

(10.0V), the current to the maximum value (0.5A), and the

bandwidth to 10kHz.

Program the Electronic Load as follows:

Input current = 0.25A

Transient frequency = 2kHz

Transient duty cycle = 50%

Transient current level = 0.5A

Current slew rate = 0.167A/µs

Turn the transient generator on.

Transient

tttt

Adjust the oscilloscope for a waveform similar to that in Figure B-2.

The output voltage should return to within 40mV in less than 60µs,

45µs, or 35µs following a 0.25A to 0.5A load change. Check both

loading and unloading transients by triggering on the positive and

negative slope. Record the voltage at time “t” in the performance test

record card under Voltage Priority Transient Response Voltage.

Unloading

Transient

“VOLT:ALC:BWID 20000,(@1)”

“VOLT:ALC:BWID 30000,(@1)”

Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the 20kHz and the 30kHz bandwidths.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Figure B-2. Transient Waveform Voltage Priority

Current Priority Transient Recovery Time

This test measures the time for the output current to recover to within the specified value following a

1V change in the output voltage. The test setup uses a 0.47µF capacitor across the output of the

generator to form an approximate 25µs time constant with the 50 ohm output of the function generator.

NOTE:

Turn off the output of the dc source before connecting the function generator.

Action

Program Commands

“OUTP OFF,(@1)”

Turn off the dc source and connect the output as in Figure B-1f with

the function generator across the HI and LO terminals. Remember to

connect the capacitor (0.47µF) close to the function generator. Keep

all leads as short as possible.

“OUTP ON,(@1)”

“SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR,(@1)”

“CURR 0,(@1)”

Turn on the dc source and program the Current Priority mode.

Program the current to zero amps.

Program the Function Generator as follows:

Frequency = 400Hz to 1kHz

Duty cycle = 50%

Wave shape = 1V square wave.

Set the Tektronics current probe to measure current at 2mA/div.

Transient

Adjust the oscilloscope for a waveform similar to that in Figure B.

The output current should return to within 1mA in less than 90µs.

Check both loading and unloading transients by triggering on the

positive and negative slope. Record the voltage at time “t” in the

performance test record card under Current Priority Transient

Response Current.

tttt

Unloading

Transient

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Figure B-3. Transient Waveform Current Priority

Performance Test Equipment Form

Test Facility:_________________________

____________________________________

Model ______________________________

Serial No. ____________________________

Options _____________________________

Firmware Revision ____________________

Special Notes:

Report Number ________________________

Date _________________________________

Customer _____________________________

Tested By ____________________________

Ambient Temperature (C) ________________

Relative Humidity (%) ___________________

Nominal Line Frequency __________________

Test Equipment Used:

Description

Model No.

Trace No.

Cal. Due Date

AC Source

_________________

DC Voltmeter

RMS Voltmeter

Oscilloscope

Electronic Load

______________

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Performance Test Record Form

Model Agilent N3280A - Output 1

Test Description

Report No ______________ Date __________________

Minimum

Specification

Results

Maximum

Specification

VOLTAGE PRIORITY TESTS

Programming Accuracy (DMM readings)

Voltage ( 0V)

Voltage (+10V)

_________

− 2mV

9.988 V

+ 2mV

10.012 V

Voltage (-10V)

− 9.988 V

0.949mA

0.49945 A

−0.949mA

− 0.49945 A

− 10.012 V

1.051mA

0.50055 A

− 1.051mA

− 0.50055 A

+ 1mA Current limit

+ 0.5A Current limit

− 1mA Current limit

− 0.5A Current limit

Readback Accuracy (MEAS? readings)

Voltage ( 0V)

Voltage (+10V)

_________

− 2mV

+ 2mV

Vout − 12mV

Iout − 0.7mA

Iout − 15µA

Iout − 0.7µA

Vout + 12mV

Iout + 0.7mA

Iout + 15µA

Iout + 0.7µA

Voltage (-10V)

+ 0.5A range current

− 0.5A range current

+ 15mA range current

− 15mA range current

+ 0.5mA range current

− 0.5mA range current

Load Effect

Voltage

+ Current limit

− Current limit

_________

+ 400µV

+ 30µA

− 400µV

− 30µA

Source Effect

Voltage

+ Current limit

− Current limit

_________

− 200µV

− 10µA

− 200µV

− 10µA

PARD (Ripple and Noise)

Voltage (rms)

Voltage (peak-to-peak)

Current limit (rms)

_________

380µV

4mV

40µA

60µs

45µs

35µs

Transient Response Time

Low( 10kHz):

Med ( 20kHz):

High ( 30kHz):

CURRENT PRIORITY TESTS

Programming Accuracy (DMM readings)

Current ( 0A )

Current ( 0.5mA)

Current ( −0.5mA)

Load Effect

Current

− 1µA

+ 1µA

_________

0.0004985 A

0.0005015 A

− 0.0004985 A

− 0.0005015 A

+ 25nA

_________

− 25nA

− 10nA

Source Effect

Current

+ 10nA

PARD (Ripple and Noise)

Current (rms)

Transient Response Time

_________

1.5µA

90µs

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

Performing the Calibration Procedure

You can only calibrate the dc source by using SCPI commands within your controller programming

statements. The SCPI calibration commands are explained in chapter 8. Calibration error messages that

can occur during GPIB calibration are shown in table B-3.

Table B-1 lists the equipment required for calibration. Figure B-1 shows the test setup. Calibrating the

N3280A power supply requires an HP 3458 DMM or something with equivalent voltage and current

measurement accuracy. For all calibration steps, connect the high sense terminal to the high output, and

the low sense terminal to the low output. A general outline of the calibration procedure is as follows:

1. Enable calibration by sending the CAL:STATE ON <password> command. The password argument

is a number which is set at the factory to the model number of the power supply, and can be changed

by the user.

2. Calibrate one or more subsystems using the commands given in the following sections. Calibrate

only one of the 4 output channels at a time. The calibration commands accept only a single channel

number for the channel list arguments.

3. Whenever a subsystem's calibration is changed, all subsystems listed below it must also be re-

calibrated. However, voltage and current subsystems are independent (changing the calibration of

one does not require re-calibration of the other).

4. As each subsystem's procedure is completed, the instrument calculates new calibration constants and

begins using them. These constants are not saved in nonvolatile memory until the CAL:SAVE

command is given. CAL:SAVE can be given after each subsystem is done or given once after all

subsystems are done.

5. Disable calibration by sending CAL:STATE OFF. Any subsystems that were calibrated with a

subsequent CAL:SAVE revert to their previous calibration constants. Note that *RST also sets the

calibration state to OFF.

Enable Calibration Mode

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the unit.

“CAL:STAT ON, 0”

Enable calibration mode. (lf the password is incorrect, an error occurs.)

Voltage Priority Mode Programming and Measurement Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the voltage input of the 3458A multimeter directly to output 1.

“CAL:VOLT (@1)”

Select voltage calibration for output 1.

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select the first calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

“CAL:LEV P2;*OPC?”

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 10V range, measure the output

voltage, and enter the data into the dc source.

Select the second calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

Measure the output voltage and enter the data into the dc source.

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Negative Current Limit Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the current input of the 3458A multimeter directly to output 1.

“CAL:CURR:LIM:NEG (@1)”

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select negative current limit calibration for output 1.

Select the first calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

“CAL:LEV P2;*OPC?”

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 1A range, measure the output current,

and enter the data into the dc source.

Select the second calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

Measure the output current and enter the data into the dc source.

Positive Current Limit Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the current input of the 3458A multimeter directly to output 1.

“CAL:CURR:LIM:POS (@1)”

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select positive current limit calibration for output 1.

Select the first calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

“CAL:LEV P2;*OPC?”

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 1A range, measure the output current,

and enter the data into the dc source.

Select the second calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

Measure the output current and enter the data into the dc source.

0.5A Range Current Measurement Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the current input of the 3458A multimeter directly to

output 1.

“CAL:CURR:MEAS 0.5,(@1)”

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select the 0.5A range current measurement calibration for output 1.

Select the calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 1A range, measure the output

current, and enter the data into the dc source.

100

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Performance and Calibration Procedures

15mA Range Current Measurement Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the current input of the 3458A multimeter directly to

output 1.

“CAL:CURR:MEAS 0.015,(@1)”

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select the 15mA range current measurement calibration for output 1.

Select the calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 10mA range, measure the output

current, and enter the data into the dc source.

Current Priority Mode Programming and 0.5mA Range Measurement

Calibration

Action

Program Commands

Jumper the High sense terminal to the High output terminal.

Jumper the Low sense terminal to the Low output terminal.

Connect the current input of the 3458A multimeter directly to

output 1.

“CAL:CURR (@1)”

Select current calibration for output 1.

“CAL:LEV P1;*OPC?”

Select the first calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of all

subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

“CAL:DATA <value>”

“CAL:LEV P2;*OPC?”

“CAL:DATA <value>”

Set the 3458A multimeter to the 1mA range, measure the output

current, and enter the data into the dc source.

Select the second calibration point. *OPC? prevents processing of

all subsequent commands to ensure that the output is stable.

Measure the output current and enter the data into the dc source.

Saving the Calibration Constants

WARNING: Storing calibration constants overwrites the existing ones in non-volatile memory. If you

are not sure you want to permanently store the new constants, omit this step. The dc

source calibration will then remain unchanged.

Action

Program Commands

“CAL:SAVE”

Save all of the calibration constants.

Exit Calibration mode. (*RST also exits calibration mode)

“CAL:STAT OFF”

101

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B - Performance and Calibration Procedures

Changing the Calibration Password

The factory default password is 0. You can change the password when the dc source is in calibration

mode (which requires you to enter the existing password). Proceed as follows:

Action

Program Commands

“*RST”

Reset the unit.

“CAL:STAT ON, 0”

Enable calibration mode. (0 is the default password)

“CAL:PASS <password>”

Enter the new password. You can use any number with up to six

digits and an optional decimal point. If you want the calibration

function to operate without requiring any password, change the

password to 0 (zero).

“CAL:SAVE”

Save the password.

“CAL:STAT OFF”

Exit Calibration mode. (*RST also exits calibration mode)

Calibration Error Messages

Errors that can occur during calibration are shown in the following table.

Table B-3. GPIB Calibration Error Messages

Error

401

402

403

404

405

406

Meaning

CAL switch prevents calibration (call the factory for details)

CAL password is incorrect

CAL not enabled

Computed readback cal constants are incorrect

Computed programming cal constants are incorrect

Incorrect sequence of calibration commands

102

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Error Messages

Error Number List

This appendix gives the error numbers and descriptions that are returned by the dc source. Errors are

indicated in two ways:

♦

The Error or Prot indicators are lit on the front panel.

Error numbers and messages are read back with the SYSTem:ERRor? query. SYSTem:ERRor?

returns the error number into a variable and returns two parameters: an NR1 and a string.

The following table lists the errors that are associated with SCPI syntax errors and interface problems. It

also lists the device dependent errors. Information inside the brackets is not part of the standard error

message, but is included for clarification.

When errors occur, the Standard Event Status register records them in bit 2, 3, 4, or 5 as described in the

following table:

Table C-1. Error Numbers

Error

Error String [Description/Explanation/Examples]

Number

Command Errors –100 through –199 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #5)

Command error [generic]

–100

–101

–102

–103

–104

–105

–108

–109

–112

–113

–114

–121

–123

–124

–128

Invalid character

Syntax error [unrecognized command or data type]

Invalid separator

Data type error [e.g., "numeric or string expected, got block data"]

GET not allowed

Parameter not allowed [too many parameters]

Missing parameter [too few parameters]

Program mnemonic too long [maximum 12 characters]

Undefined header [operation not allowed for this device] Check the language setting.

Header suffix out of range [value of numeric suffix is invalid]

Invalid character in number [includes "9" in octal data, etc.]

Numeric overflow [exponent too large; exponent magnitude >32 k]

Too many digits [number too long; more than 255 digits received]

Numeric data not allowed

103

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C – Error Messages

Table C-1. Error Numbers (continued

–131

–138

–141

–144

–148

–150

–151

–158

–160

–161

–168

–170

–171

–178

Invalid suffix [unrecognized units, or units not appropriate]

Suffix not allowed

Invalid character data [bad character, or unrecognized]

Character data too long

Character data not allowed

String data error

Invalid string data [e.g., END received before close quote]

String data not allowed

Block data error

Invalid block data [e.g., END received before length satisfied]

Block data not allowed

Expression error

Invalid expression

Expression data not allowed

Execution Errors –200 through –299 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #4)

Execution error [generic]

–200

–222

–223

–224

–225

–270

–272

–273

–276

–277

Data out of range [e.g., too large for this device]

Too much data [out of memory; block, string, or expression too long]

Illegal parameter value [device-specific]

Out of memory

Macro error

Macro execution error

Illegal macro label

Macro recursion error

Macro redefinition not allowed

System Errors –300 through –399 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #3)

System error [generic]

–310

–350

Too many errors [errors beyond 9 lost due to queue overflow]

Query Errors –400 through –499 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #2)

Query error [generic]

–400

–410

–420

–430

–440

Query INTERRUPTED [query followed by DAB or GET before response complete]

Query UNTERMINATED [addressed to talk, incomplete programming message received]

Query DEADLOCKED [too many queries in command string]

Query UNTERMINATED [after indefinite response]

104

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Error Messages - C

Table C-1. Error Numbers (continued

Selftest Errors 0 through 99 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #3)

No error

Output 1 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 2 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 3 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Output 4 non-volatile RAM CAL section checksum failed

Non-volatile RAM CONFIG section checksum failed

RAM selftest

Device-Dependent Errors 100 through 32767 (sets Standard Event Status Register bit #3)

Flash write error

100

101

401

402

403

404

405

406

407

601

603

604

607

608

609

610

611

900

901

902

903

950

951

Flash erase error

CAL switch prevents calibration

CAL password is incorrect

CAL not enabled

Computed readback cal constants are incorrect

Computed programming cal constants are incorrect

Incorrect sequence of calibration commands

CV or CC status is incorrect for this command

Too many sweep points

CURRent or VOLTage fetch incompatible with last acquisition

Measurement overrange

Operation not allowed with the present language setting

Valid only while the output is disabled

No data in acquisition buffer

Bad update data

Not in update state

Bad binary mode call packet checksum

Bad binary mode protocol version

Bad binary mode function number

Bad binary mode channel list

Bad binary mode reply packet checksum

Bad binary mode transaction ID

105

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Line Voltage Selection

To change the line voltage selection:

1. Remove the line cord.

2. Check if the line voltage displayed in the window must be changed.

3. Open the door using a small flat-bladed screwdriver.

4. Rotate the cylinder so that the correct line voltage appears in the location under the window.

5. Pull the fuse drawer out and check if the fuse is correct for the line voltage that you have selected

(see Table 2-1). If the rating is incorrect, replace the fuse with the correct one.

107

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Earlier Version Output Connectors

This appendix documents the earlier version output connectors used on Agilent N3280A units.

Earlier style Agilent N3280A units used a different style output connector with ten (10) pins instead of

the six used on the present connector. The additional pins were used as guard connection points. The

earlier style connector also limited the wire sizes that could be used for output connections. Wires sizes

were limited to AWG 24 and AWG 26. The following table documents the mating part for the earlier

style connectors. These mating parts were not shipped with the unit.

Mating Connector Part Numbers

Output

connectors

(for wires)

10-terminal output plug for connecting load and sense

wires. Connector installs in the back of the unit. Can be

ordered from 3M company (www.3m.com/interconnects)

CHG-2010-J01010-KEP

Output

connectors

(with coax)

10-terminal output plug with terminated 36" coaxial

cables. Connector installs in the back of the unit. Can be

ordered from 3M company (www.3m.com/interconnects)

9821-017-36-AZN

(underline specifies coax length)

Rear Panel Pinout Assignments

The following figure documents the pin-out assignments of the earlier style connectors.

109

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Index

—A—

*RST, 77

*SRE, 77

*STB?, 77

*TRG, 78

*TST, 78

AARD, 36

ABORT, 73

accessories, 14

address switch, 21

airflow, 20

*WAI, 78

constant voltage tests, 84

controller connections, 25

conventions used in this guide, 32

CRD, 36

averaging measurements, 43

AWG ratings, 23

—C—

current, 40

measurement range, 45

current measurement range, 61

current priority, 16

cables, 14

calibration, 99

equipment, 83

error messages, 102

GPIB, 99

password, 102

saving, 101

setup, 85

—D—

damage, 19

description, 14

determining cause of interrupt, 52

device clear, 37

digital connector, 19

dimensions, 20

calibration commands, 57

CAL CURR, 57

LIM, 57

CAL CURR MEAS, 57

CAL DATA, 58

CAL DATE, 58

CAL LEV, 58

disconnect relays, 14

—E—

CAL PASS, 58

CAL SAVE, 59

CAL STAT, 59

CAL VOLT, 59

capabilities, 14

channel

electronic load, 85

enabling the output, 39

error messages, 29

error numbers, 103

external trigger, 43, 47

parameter, 34

range, 34

—F—

character strings, 36

characteristics, 79

checkout procedure, 28

cleaning, 19

fetch commands, 43, 60

FETC ARR CURR?, 60

FETC ARR VOLT?, 60

FETC CURR?, 60

FETC VOLT?, 60

front panel

coaxial connections, 24

combine commands

common commands, 33

from different subsystems, 33

root specifier, 33

command completion, 36

external synchronization, 37

internal synchronization, 37

common command syntax, 53

common commands, 75

*CLS, 75

indicators, 27

line switch, 27

fuse, 19

—G—

GPIB

capabilities, 31

GP-IB

*ESE, 75

*ESR?, 75

*IDN?, 76

*OPC, 76

address, 25

command library for MS DOS, 31

connections, 25

controller programming, 31

*OPT?, 76

111

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Index

IEEE Std for standard codes, 31

IEEE Std for standard digital interface, 31

interface, 25

measurement points, 44

measurement samples, 44

measurement trigger

function, 47

references, 31

generating, 47

trigger, 43, 47

initiating, 46

output delay, 47

source, 46

GPIB connector, 21

ground, earth, 3

guard connections, 24

guide, user’s, 13

measurement trigger system

model, 46

measurements

—H—

arrays, 45

Hanning window, 45

Rectangular window, 45

message terminator, 35

end or identify, 35

newline, 35

Hanning, 45, 63

header, 35

long form, 35

short form, 35

history, 6

message unit

separator, 35

model differences, 14

MSS bit, 51

—I—

indicaror

multipliers, 36

Error, 27

On, 27

Power, 27

Prot, 27

indicator

—N—

numerical data formats, 35

Active, 27

initialization, 39

initiate commands, 73

INIT NAME, 73

input

—O—

operation status group, 50

optional header

example, 33

connections, 21

power, 14

options, 14

oscillation

inspection, 19

internally triggered measurements, 45

protection, 41

ouptut trigger

generating, 43

output

—L—

compensation, 25

connections, 22

connector, 19

output characteristic, 15, 16

output commands, 64

OUTP, 64

OUTP OSCP, 64

OUTP PROT CLE, 64

output connector, 21

output mode, 40

output queue, 51

output trigger

initiating, 42

language dictionary, 53

lead resistance, 23

line fuse

changing, 107, 109

replacing, 29

line module, 21

line switch, 27

line voltage, 21

selection, 107, 109

load voltage drops, 23

location, 20

—M—

setting, 42

source, 42

output trigger system

model, 41

OVP

making measurements, 43

manuals, 19

MAV bit, 51

measure commands, 43, 60

MEAS ARR CURR?, 61

MEAS ARR VOLT?, 61

MEAS CURR?, 61

MEAS VOLT?, 61

measurement

circuit, 25

disable, 25

—P—

PARD, 94, 95

performance

delay, 17

overview, 17

112

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Index

equipment, 83

setup, 85

performance test form, 97

post-event triggering, 48

power cord, 19, 21

SENS SWE OFFS POIN, 62

SENS SWE POIN, 63

SENS SWE TINT, 63

SENS WIND, 63

sense connections, 22

power line cycles, 44

power-on initialization, 39

pre-event triggering, 48

print date, 6

programming, 85

programming parameters, 53

programming status registers, 49

servicing operation status, 52

servicing questionable status events, 52

source commands, 64

[SOUR] CURR [IMM], 65

[SOUR] CURR LIM [IMM], 65

[SOUR] CURR LIM BWID, 65

[SOUR] CURR LIM MODE, 66

[SOUR] CURR LIM TRIG, 65

[SOUR] CURR MODE, 66

[SOUR] CURR TRIG, 65

[SOUR] DEL, 66

—Q—

queries, 33

[SOUR] DEL MODE, 66

[SOUR] FUNC MODE, 67

[SOUR] VOLT [IMM], 67

[SOUR] VOLT ALC BWID, 67

[SOUR] VOLT MODE, 68

[SOUR] VOLT PROT STAT, 68

[SOUR] VOLT TRIG, 67

specifications, 79

SRD, 36

stability, 25

standard event status group, 51

status bit configurations, 50

status byte register, 51

status commands, 69

query

indicator, 35

questionable status group, 51

—R—

rack mount kit, 14

rack mounting, 20

readback accuracy, 86

rear panel

connections, 21

Rectangular, 45, 63

remote programming, 14

remote sensing

STAT OPER [EVEN]?, 69

STAT OPER COND?, 69

STAT OPER ENAB, 69

STAT OPER NTR, 70

STAT OPER PTR, 70

STAT PRES, 70

with test fixture, 23

repacking, 19

returning voltage or current data, 45

root specifier, 35

RQS bit, 51

STAT QUES [EVEN]?, 70

STAT QUES COND?, 71

STAT QUES ENAB, 71

STAT QUES NTR, 71

STAT QUES PTR, 71

subsystem commands syntax, 54

suffixes, 36

support rails, 20

system commands, 72

SYST ERR?, 72

SYST VERS?, 72

system errors, 103

—S—

safety

class, 13

summary, 3

safety warning, 3

SCPI

command completion, 36

command syntax, 53

command tree, 32

common commands, 32

device clear, 37

header path, 33

message structure, 34

message unit, 34

multiple commands, 33

program message, 34

references, 31

—T—

time interval, 44

trigger commands, 73

TRIG [TRAN], 74

TRIG [TRAN] SOUR, 74

TRIG ACQ, 73

TRIG ACQ SOUR, 74

trigger connector, 25

trigger offset, 48

response message, 34

subsystem commands, 32, 53

SCPI commands

at a glance, 54

selftest errors, 29

sense commands, 60

SENS CURR RANG, 61

SENS FUNC, 62

SENS SWE NPLC, 62

triggering output changes, 41

types of SCPI commands, 32

113

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Index

—V—

—W—

voltage, 39

waiting for measurement results, 48

protection, 40

voltage priority, 15

warranty, 2

wire

voltage programming, 86

current ratings, 23

114

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Agilent Sales and Support Office

For more information about Agilent Technologies test and measurement products, applications, services,

and for a current sales office listing, visit our web site: http://www.agilent.com/find/tmdir

You can also contact one of the following centers and ask for a test and measurement sales

representative.

United States:

Latin America:

Agilent Technologies

Test and Measurement Call Center

P.O. Box 4026

Englewood, CO 80155-4026

(tel) 1 800 452 4844

Agilent Technologies

Latin American Region Headquarters

5200 Blue Lagoon Drive, Suite #950

Miami, Florida 33126

U.S.A.

(tel) (305) 267 4245

(fax) (305) 267 4286

Canada:

Australia/New Zealand:

Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd

347 Burwood Highway

Forest Hill, Victoria 3131

(tel) 1-800 629 485 (Australia)

(fax) (61 3) 9272 0749

Agilent Technologies Canada Inc.

5150 Spectrum Way

Mississauga, Ontario

L4W 5G1

(tel) 1 877 894 4414

(tel) 0 800 738 378 (New Zealand)

(fax) (64 4) 802 6881

Europe:

Asia Pacific:

Agilent Technologies

Test & Measurement European Marketing Organisation

P.O. Box 999

1180 AZ Amstelveen

The Netherlands

Agilent Technologies

24/F, Cityplaza One, 1111 King's Road,

Taikoo Shing, Hong Kong

tel: (852)-3197-7777

fax: (852)-2506-9284

(tel) (31 20) 547 9999

Japan:

Agilent Technologies Japan Ltd.

Measurement Assistance Center

9-1, Takakura-Cho, Hachioji-Shi,

Tokyo 192-8510, Japan

(tel) (81) 426 56 7832

(fax) (81) 426 56 7840

Technical data is subject to change.

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Manual Updates

The following updates have been made to this manual since its publication.

6/1/01

Chapter 2 has been updated with information about the new output connector.

Chapters 5 and 6 have been updated with a new SCPI command: [SOURce]CURRent:LIMit:BWIDth

Appendix A has been updated to include the following information:

Programming accuracy temperature coefficients

Readback accuracy temperature coefficients

Output impedance graphs

Appendix E has been added to document the earlier output connector.

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