BNC 575 Pulse Generator User Manual
- June 15, 2024
- BNC
Table of Contents
BNC 575 Pulse Generator
Product Information
Specifications
- Model: 575
- Product Type: Pulse Generator
- Manufacturer: Berkeley Nucleonics Corp.
- Number of Pages in Manual: 64
Introduction
The Model 575 Pulse Generator is a versatile device that allows you to generate precise pulses for various applications. This user manual provides detailed instructions on configuring and using the pulse generator effectively.
Configuring the Channel Multiplexer
To configure the Channel Multiplexer, follow these steps:
- Press the Channel Gate Menu button.
- Select the desired sync source.
- Adjust the Channel Gate Control settings as required.
Clocks/Rate Menus (FUNC + RATE key)
The Clocks/Rate menus allow you to customize the clock and rate settings. To access these menus:
- Press the FUNC key followed by the RATE key.
- Select the Internal Reference Menu to set the internal reference source and rate.
- Adjust the settings according to your requirements.
- Access the Reference Out Menu to set the output reference if needed.
Trigger Menus (TRIG key)
The Trigger menus enable you to configure the trigger settings. Follow
these steps:
- Press the TRIG key to access the Trigger Menus.
- Enable the System Trigger as desired.
Gate Menus (GATE key)
The Gate menus allow you to configure gate settings. Here’s how:
- Press the GATE key to access the Gate Menus.
- Select the Standard Gate Menu.
- Enable the System Gate if required.
System Configuration Menus (FUNC + SYSTEM key)
The System Configuration Menus let you customize various system settings.
To access these menus:
- Press the FUNC key followed by the SYSTEM key.
- Access the Communication Interface Menu to set system communication parameters.
- Adjust the parameters according to your needs.
- Proceed to the User Options Menus to configure keypad parameters and auto start mode.
- Set the display decimal mark and brightness in the Display menu.
Store Menu (FUNC + STORE key)
The Store Menu allows you to save your configuration for future use. Follow
these steps:
- Press the FUNC key followed by the STORE key.
- Select the option to store a configuration.
FAQ
Q: How many pages are there in the user manual?
A: The user manual consists of 64 pages.
Q: How can I configure the sync source for the Channel Multiplexer?
A: Press the Channel Gate Menu button and select the desired sync source.
Q: Can I customize the clock and rate settings?
A: Yes, you can access the Clocks/Rate menus by pressing the FUNC key
followed by the RATE key. From there, you can adjust the settings according to
your requirements.
Q: How do I enable the System Trigger?
A: Access the Trigger Menus by pressing the TRIG key and enable the System
Trigger as desired.
Q: What is the purpose of the Gate Menus?
A: The Gate Menus allow you to configure gate settings. You can access them
by pressing the GATE key and select the Standard Gate Menu. From there, you
can enable the System Gate if required.
Q: How can I save my configuration for future use?
A: Press the FUNC key followed by the STORE key to access the Store Menu.
Select the option to store a configuration.
Introduction
This manual is a reference designed to familiarize you with the Berkeley Nucleonics 575 series pulse generator and is arranged so that you can easily find the information you’re looking for. Generally, each topic has its own section and no section assumes that you’ve read anything else in the manual.
Technical Support
For questions or comments about operating the 575 — our technical staff can be
reached via one of the following methods:
Phone:
Fax:
Online:
www.berkeleynucleonics.com
Warranty
In addition to a 30-day money back guarantee, the 575 has a two-year limited
warranty from the date of delivery. This warranty covers defects in materials
and workmanship. Berkeley Nucleonics will repair or replace any defective
unit. Contact us for information on obtaining warranty service.
Package Contents
The box you receive should contain the following: 575 Pulse Generator AC Power
Cord Disc that includes o Operating Manual o Software Drivers o Communication
Software
Contact Berkeley Nucleonics
415-453-9955 if any parts are missing.
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3 Safety Issues
Normal use of test equipment presents a certain amount of danger from
electrical shock because testing must be performed where exposed voltage is
present. An electrical shock causing 10 milliamps of current to pass through
the heart will stop most human heartbeats. Voltage as low as 35 V (DC or RMS
AC) should be considered dangerous and hazardous since it can produce a lethal
current under certain conditions. Higher voltages pose an even greater threat
because such voltage can easily produce a lethal current. Your normal work
habits should include all accepted practices that will prevent contact with
exposed high volt·age, and steer current away from your heart in case of
accidental contact with a high voltage. You will significantly reduce the risk
factor if you know and observe the following safety precautions:
If possible, familiarize yourself with the equipment being tested and the
location of its high-voltage points. However, remember that high voltage may
appear at unexpected points in defective equipment. Do not expose high voltage
needlessly. Remove housing and covers only when necessary. Turn off equipment
while making test connections in high-voltage circuits. Discharge high-voltage
capacitors after shutting down power.
When testing AC powered equipment, remember that AC line voltage is usually
present on power input circuits, such as the on-off switch, fuses, power
transformer, etc.
Use an insulated floor material or a large, insulated floor mat to stand on,
and an insulated work surface on which to place equipment. Make certain such
surfaces are not damp or wet. Use the time-proven “one hand in the pocket”
technique while handling an instrument probe. Be particularly careful to avoid
contact with metal objects that could provide a good ground return path.
Never work alone. Someone should always be nearby to render aid if necessary.
Training in CPR first aid is highly recommended.
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Front Panel Overview
575 Front Panel
Display Layout and Indicators
A 4 line x 20 character vacuum fluorescent display module displays parameters
and status information. The status information is located in the upper-left
corner of the display, between the two brackets. There are four enunciators:
A vertical arrow indicates there are additional pages
to the current menu.
An alternating hollow and then solid circle indicates
the unit is actively generating pulses, or armed and
waiting for an external trigger.
A musical note indicates the function key has been
pressed.
?
In external oscillator operation, a question mark
indicates the internal pll is not yet locked with the
external clock signal.
The upper-right side of the display contains the title of the currently
displayed menu. The rest of the display is used for system parameters. The
display brightness may be adjusted, allowing the instrument to be used under
various lighting conditions.
Description of Front-Panel Area
Keypads
Three keypad areas provide fast access to various menus and easy editing of
system parameters.
Channel Keypad Arrow Keypad
Provides one touch access to the menus for setting up the channel parameters.
Pressing the appropriate letter will display the parameters for the
corresponding channel. Example: Pressing the A key will access the Channel A
menus.
The up (UP) and down (DOWN) arrow keys are used to increment/decrement the
current parameter (indicated by the blinking cursor). The position of the
cursor controls the step size for each increment. The
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Numeric Keypad
right (RIGHT) and left (LEFT) arrow keys moves the cursor to different
positions within the current parameter. The NEXT key selects the next
parameter in the currently displayed menu. Allows numbers and alphanumeric
values to be
en·tered. When entering alphanumeric values, pressing a key will display the
first letter shown on the key. The yellow FUNC key allows the keys to select
the yellow functions.
Repeated key presses will toggle through all the letters, both upper and lower
case, shown on the keycap. To enter two letters which appear on the same
keycap, se·lect the first character, then use the right arrow to shift to the
next position and enter the next letter. When data entry is complete the ENTER
key must be pressed.
Rotary Adjustment Knob
As an alternative to the Arrow Keypad, the Rotary Adjustment Knob may be used
to adjust the current parameter. The step size is controlled by the position
of the cursor; however turning the knob faster will increase the step size.
Pushing the knob will perform functions similar to the NEXT key and switch to
the next parameter in the currently displayed menu.
Second Level Menus (Function Key)
The second level menus (indicated in yellow above certain keys) are accessed
through the use of the yellow function (FUNC) key. Pressing the FUNC key once
and then pressing the desired menu key will display the specified second level
menu. Pressing the FUNC key twice in succession will put the unit into
“Function Lock” mode, where the second level menus can be accessed without
repeatedly pressing the FUNC key. Pressing the FUNC key a third time will exit
“Function Lock” mode.
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5 Pulse Concepts and Pulse Generator Operations
Counter Architecture Overview
*Start source is:
RUN/STOP key in Internal Modes External input in External Trigger modes *TRG command via Serial/GPIB access
**Channels are armed by the RUN button. In single shot and burst modes channels may be rearmed by pressing the RUN button.
System Timer Functions
The System Timer functions as a non-retriggerable, multi-vibrator pulse
generator. This means that once started, depending on the mode, the timer will
pro·duce pulses continuously. Before pulses can be generated, the timer must
be armed and then receive a start pulse. Arming the counter is done by pressing
the RUN/STOP key. With external trigger disabled, the RUN/STOP key also
generates the start command for the counter. With external trigger enabled, the
external trigger provides the start pulse. In either case, once started, the counter
operation is determined by the System Mode Generator. Standard modes
include:
Continuous
Once started T0 pulses are generated continuously.
Single Shot
One T0 pulse is generated for each start command.
Burst
`n’ T0 pulses are generated for each start command.
Duty Cycle
Once started T0 pulses cycle on and off continuously.
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The T0 pulses are distributed to all of the start inputs of the Channel Timers and Mode Generators
Channel Timer Functions
The Channel Timer functions as a non-retriggerable, delayed, one shot pulse
generator. This means that the timer will only generate one delayed pulse for
every start pulse received. Once the channel timer has started counting,
addi·tional start pulses will be ignored until the pulse has been completed
(non·retriggerable). The start pulse for each channel is provided by the
internal T0 pulse generated by the Internal System Timer. Whether or not a
pulse is gener·ated for each T0 pulse is determined by the Channel Mode
Generator. Standard modes include:
Normal Single Shot
Burst
Duty Cycle
A pulse is generated for each T0 pulse.
One pulse is generated at the first T0 pulse, after which output is inhibited.
A pulse is generated for each T0 pulse, ‘n’ times, after which output is
inhibited.
n’ pulses are generated for each T0 pulse after which the output is inhibited form’ times. The cycle is then repeated.
Different modes may be selected for each output, allowing a wide variety of output combinations. Each output may also be independently disabled or gated (using the external gate input).
Digital Output Multiplexer
The outputs of the Channel Timers are routed to a set of multiplexers. This
allows routing of any or all Channel Timers to any or all of the unit outputs.
In the normal mode of operation, the output of the Tn Channel Timer is routed
to the Tn output connector. As an example, if a double pulse is required on
Channel A output, one can multiplex the Channel A timer with the Channel B
timer adjusting each timer to provide the necessary pulses.
Dependent & Independent Timing Events
The 575 allows the user to control the relationship between the Channel Timers
by setting the sync source for each timer. Independent events are all timed
relative to the internal T0 start pulse. Dependent events may be linked
together by setting the sync source to the controlling event. This allows the
instrument to match the timed events and adjustments can be made in one event
without detuning the timing between it and a dependent event.
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Navigating the 575 Front Panel
Selecting Menus Parameters are grouped in menus, selectable using menu keys.
To select the output channel parameters press the letter key corresponding to
the desired channel. To select second level menus press the FUNC key and then
the key corresponding to the desired function. To select advanced channel
menus press the FUNC key followed by the desired channel key. Menus may
include a number of different pages with each page containing up to four
parameters. The status block in the upper-left corner of the display shows a
vertical arrow if the current menu contains additional pages. To select the
next page, press the channel button again or select the same second level menu
by pressing the FUNC key and the channel/menu key again.
Selecting Menu Items Within a menu, the blinking cursor indicates the current
menu item for editing. The NEXT key or pressing the adjustment knob will
select a different menu item.
Numeric Input Mode When the current item is numeric, the system enters the
Numeric Input Mode. In this mode data may be edited in one of three ways.
Using the arrow keypad, the left (LEFT) and right (RIGHT) arrow keys are used
to select a digit to edit. The selected digit blinks to identify itself as the
active digit. The UP and DOWN arrow keys are then used to increment or
decrement this digit. Alternately, after using the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to select an active digit, the adjustment knob may be used to increment and
decrement this digit. The adjustment knob features speed de·pendent
resolution. Slow rotation will increment or decrement the active digit by one.
As you increase the speed of rotation, the parameter will be 10 to 1000 times
faster depending on the speed.
An additional entry mode is using the numeric keypad. Enter the number,
including decimal point using the numeric keypad. Complete the number using
the ENTER key. To clear number entry and/or start over press the clear key
(CLR). Pressing the CLR key a second time will exit the numeric keypad mode
and restore the original number.
The last entry mode is a modified form of scientific notation. The FUNC button
acts as 10- in this case. Type in the value followed by FUNC then the number
button that represents the power desired. For example 64us is entered as 6, 4,
FUNC, and then 6.
Entering Non-Numeric Parameters When the current item is non-numeric, the UP
and DOWN arrow keys are used to select among different options for the
parameter. The adjustment knob may also be used to change the selection. If
the item is an on-off toggle, the UP arrow
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(CW adjustment knob) enables the item and the DOWN arrow (CCW adjustment knob) disables the item.
Alphanumeric Input Mode
When the current item is alphanumeric, the system enters the Alphanumeric Input Mode. In this mode, data is entered using the alphanumeric keypad. Pressing a key will display the first letter shown on the keypad. Repeated key presses will toggle through all the letters, both upper and lower case, shown on the key cap. To enter two letters which appear on the same key cap, select the first character, then use the right arrow to shift to the next position and enter the next letter. The Left and Right arrow keys may be used to position the cursor to edit any character. When data entry is complete, the ENTER key must be pressed. The keys contain the following characters:
1 1234567890 2 ABCabc2
3 DEFdef3
4 GHIghi4 5 JKLjkl5
6 MNOmno6
7 PQRSpqrs7 8 TUVtuv8
9 WXYZwxyz9
0 0123456789
.
. , # $ % & ? · — + * / space
Enabling System Output
The RUN/STOP key is used to arm the system. With external trigger disabled,
the key will arm and start pulse output. With external trigger enabled, the
key will arm the pulse generator. Pulse output then starts after the first
valid trigger input. Pressing the RUN/STOP key a second time disables the
pulse generator.
Enable/Disable Channel Output
At the top of each channel menu page is a parameter to enable or disable the
output of the channel. Each channel may be individually enabled or disabled.
An illuminated channel key indicates that the channel is enabled.
Rearming the Channel Timers In the channel single shot mode and burst mode,
the Channel Timers may be rearmed after completing the initial output by
pressing the FUNC key followed by the RUN/STOP key. If there are channels
currently running in normal mode, single shot and burst channels can be re-
armed without affecting the timing on normal mode channels by pressing
function RUN/STOP.
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Setting Pulse Timing Parameters
Pulses are defined by a delay, from their sync or start pulse to the active
edge, and a width.
Wid:
Sets the width of the active portion of the pulse.
Dly:
Sets the delay from the sync source to the start of the pulse.
NOTE: If Wid + Dly + 75 ns (hardware reset time) > T0 Period, the correct
pulse width will be generated but at a slower rate.
Setting Pulse Output Parameters There are three basic types of outputs
available on the 575: (a) TTL/CMOS compatible outputs; (b) adjustable
amplitude outputs; (c) optical outputs.
Out: Pol:
Ampl:
Selects between TTL/CMOS mode and Adjustable mode when both are available on a single output. Sets the voltage polarity of the pulse, active high or active low. Note: All outputs are positive – negative voltages are not supported. In adjustable mode, it sets the unloaded output voltage. The actual output voltage will depend on the load impedance. For example: If the load is 50 ohms, the output will be 50% of the stated voltage.
Using the Output Multiplexer
Each output channel includes a multiplexer which allows routing any or all of
the timer outputs to the physical output. This allows double pulses and other
com·plex pulse trains to be generated. Only timing parameters are multiplexed
together, not amplitudes.
Mux:
-HGFEDCBA-00000101·
The multiplexer is represented by an “n” bit binary number as shown above. “n”
is the number of channels. Each bit represents a channel timer, which is
enabled
by setting the bit to one. In the above example, timers A and C are combined
on
the current output.
Setting System Internal Rate Parameters
The internal T0 period controls the fundamental output frequency of the system.
Each channel may operate at submultiples of the fundamental frequency using
their duty cycle mode.
Source:
Sets the reference source for the internal T Period.
Per:
Sets the internal T Period.
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To set the system Internal Rate – press the yellow FUNC key, then press the RATE key, and then use the dial or number pad to specify the T0 Period.
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6 575 Menu Structure
System Mode Menus (FUNC + MODE key)
MODE: Continuous
MODE: Single Shot
MODE: Burst #/Burst
MODE: Duty Cycle #/On #/Off
Setting System Mode of Operation
The MODE menu sets the T0 system timer mode. The menu will show the extra set
parameters (Burst, On & Off) only when they are appropriate.
Mode: Burst: On: Off:
Selects the T0 mode: Continuous, Single Shot, Burst or Duty Cycle mode. Sets the number of pulses to be generated when in Burst mode. Sets the number of pulses to be generated during each on cycle. Sets the number of pulses to skip each during off cycle when in the Duty Cycle mode.
*NOTE: Any mode may be started by either the RUN/STOP key in the internal trigger mode or armed by the RUN/STOP key and started by an external trigger in the external trigger mode. In the single shot and burst modes, (internally triggered) the unit disarms itself at the end of the pulse train. Pressing the RUN/STOP key after the unit has been disarmed will generate a new pulse train.
Channel Menus (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, or H key)
Timing Menu
Channel Enable Sync Source Pulse Width Delay
Output Configuration Menu
Channel Enable
Output Type: TTL/CMOS Polarity
Channel Enable
Output Type: Adjustable Polarity Output Level
Channel Enable
Output Type: Optical Polarity
Channel Enable
Output Type: High Z Polarity Output Level
Channel Enable Output Type: Low Z
Output Level
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Mode Menu
Channel Enable Mode: Normal
Channel Enable
Mode: Single Shot
Channel Enable Mode: Burst
/Burst Pulses
Channel Enable
Mode: Duty Cycle #/On Pulses #/Off Pulses
Wait Menu
Channel Enable
/Wait Pulses
Enabling Channel Output
At the top of each of the channel menu pages is a parameter to enable or
disable the channel. Each channel may be individually controlled. When
enabled, the channel key will illuminate.
Setting the Channel Timing Parameters
To define a pulse requires two parameters: the delay to the active edge and
the width of the pulse.
Wid:
Sets the channel pulse width.
Dly:
Sets the channel delay until the active edge.
Setting Pulse Configuration Output Type
The 575 supports two types of outputs: a high speed TTL/CMOS compatible output
and for applications which require different voltage levels or higher
cur·rent, an adjustable voltage output. The pulses can also be defined to be
active high or active low.
Out:
Pol: Ampl:
Selects the output mode; TTL/CMOS, Adjustable, Optical, High Impedance (Hi Z), or Low Impedance (Lo Z) Sets the pulse polarity, active high or active low. Sets the output voltage level when in the Adjustable mode.
Setting Channel Mode of Operation
Each channel may be set independently to operate in one of four modes: normal,
single shot, burst, or duty cycle (within the CHANNEL menus):
Mode: Brst:
Selects the mode for the current channel. Additional parameters are provided for the burst mode and the duty cycle mode. Sets the number of pulses in the burst mode to gener·ate before inhibiting output.
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On:
Sets the number of pulses to generate before inhibiting
output in Duty Cycle Mode.
Off:
Sets the number of pulses to inhibit before repeating the On
Cycle in Duty Cycle Mode.
Delaying the Start of Channel Output
Within any channel mode, the output of the channel can be delayed using the
wait parameter (within the CHANNEL menu):
Wait:
Sets the number of T0 pulses to wait until enabling the channel output.
Advanced Channel Menus (FUNC + A, B, C, D, E, F, G or H key)
Multiplexer Menu
-HGFE DCBA-
Multiplexed Channels
Configuring the Channel Multiplexer
To define which channels are fed into the channel multiplexer, the
corresponding bit for the desired channel to add should be set to 1. All
desired omitted channels should have the corresponding bit set to 0.
Mux:
Enable/disable bit field.
Channel Gate Menu
Channel Enable Channel Enable Channel Enable
Ch Gate Mode: (Gate Menu)
Ch Gate Mode: Pulse Inhibit
Logic Level
Ch Gate Mode: Output Inhibit
Logic Level
Setting the Sync Source
Although each channel receives its start pulse from the internal T0 pulse, the
start pulse can be assigned such that the delay entered is relative to the T0
pulse or any other channel pulse. This allows dependent events to link. The
unit will not allow a circular chain of sync sources that would result in a
channel triggering itself. The delay entered is relative to the selected sync
source.
Sync Source:
Selects the channel sync source.
Setting Channel Gate Control
When the global gate is set (Chan Menu), the channel can then use the gate
input with independent behavior from other channels.
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Gate: Logic:
Enables the GATE input for the channel by setting the method of output control used with the gating function. Sets the logic level used with the gating function, either active high or active low.
“Pulse Inhibit” method
The gate prevents the channel from being triggered by the channel’s trigger
source pulse. If a pulse has already started when the gate disables the
channel, the pulse will continue normal output but will not restart on the
next trigger pulse.
“Output Inhibit” method
The gate leaves the base triggering alone and enables/ disables the output
directly.
Clocks/Rate Menus (FUNC + RATE key)
Internal Reference Menu
Source: System Osc
T0 Period
Source: 10MHz Ext
T0 Period
Source: 20MHz Ext
T0 Period
Source: 25MHz Ext
T0 Period
Source: 40MHz Ext
T0 Period
Source: 50MHz Ext
Source: 80MHz Ext
Source: 100MHz Ext
T0 Period
T0 Period
Setting the Internal Reference Source and Rate
Source: To:
Selects the internal or external clock source from which the unit will operate. Sets the T0 period which determines the fundamental output frequency of the unit.
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Reference Out Menu
Ref Out: T0 Pulse
T0 Period
Ref Out: 100MHz
T0 Period
Ref Out: 50MHz Ref Out: 33.33MHz
T0 Period
T0 Period
Ref Out: 25MHz T0 Period
Ref Out: 20MHz Ref Out: 16.67Mhz
T0 Period
T0 Period
Ref Out: 14.2857MHz
T0 Period
Ref Out: 12.5MHz
T0 Period
Ref Out: 11.11MHz
T0 Period
Ref Out: 10MHz
T0 Period
Setting the Output Reference
Ref Out:
Selects the frequency of the output reference for syn·chronizing with external system components.
Trigger Menus (TRIG key)
Mode: Disabled
Mode: Triggered Threshold Level Trigger Edge
Enabling System Trigger Enable the use of the TRIG input by the system timer as a trigger source.
Mode: Level:
Selects between disabling/enabling the trigger mode. Sets the trigger threshold. Edge: Selects between rising and falling edges as the trigger source when a trigger mode is enabled.
Gate Menus (GATE key)
Standard Gate Menu
Mode: Disabled
Mode: Pulse Inhibit
Threshold Level
Logic Level
Mode: Output Inhibit
Threshold Level
Logic Level
Mode: (Chan Menu) *
Threshold Level
- Gate Mode is controlled on a per channel basis from the Advanced Channel Gate Menu
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Enabling System Gate
Enables the use of the GATE input as a trigger inhibit or output control for
all channels simultaneously, or on a per channel basis.
Mode:
Level: Logic:
Selects between disabling the GATE inputs and method of output control Sets the gating threshold. Sets the active logic level.
System Configuration Menus (FUNC + SYSTEM key)
Communication Interface Menu
Interface:
Interface: USB Interface: GPIB Interface:
RS232
Ethernet *
Baud Rate
Address
Echo
- Instrument must be equipped with the Extended Communications Option.
(Visit www.berkeleynucleonics.com for more details).
Setting System Communication Parameters
The 575 comes with a standard RS232 serial port and USB port. The unit will
not respond to computer commands unless these ports are properly configured.
Interface: Baud Rate: Echo:
RS232, USB, GPIB (optional), Ethernet (optional) Selects the baud rate for the selected interface. Selects whether to echo characters back to the host computer or not. Address: Sets the GPIB address.
User Options Menu 1
Key Rate Key Volume Knob Volume
Setting Keypad Parameters
The rate at which a key will repeat itself when held down may be set. This can
be used to provide a controlled rate at which a parameter is incremented. In
addition, the volume of the beep can be controlled for both the keypad and the
adjustable knob.
Key Rate:
Key Vol: Knob Vol:
Sets the rate at which the keys will repeat when held down. Sets the beep volume for the keypad. Sets the beep volume for the Rotary Knob.
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User Options Menu 2
Auto Start Mode Decimal Mark LCD Brightness
Setting the Auto Start Mode
The unit may be configured to automatically start generating pulses after
power up.
Setting the Display Decimal Mark
Mark:
Selects the format of the decimal mark, “.” or “,”.
Setting the Display Brightness
LCD:
Adjusts display brightness.
Store Menu (FUNC + STORE key)
Configuration # Name Help Line
Storing a Configuration Use the following procedure to store a complete system
configuration:
Set all parameters to the desired value. Select a configuration number.
*NOTE: You cannot store to the zero location, as that contains the factory default values.
Label the configuration as desired. From the Store menu, press the store
button sequence (FUNC + STORE).
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Recall Menu (FUNC + RECALL key)
Configuration # Name Help Line
Recalling System Configurations Use the following procedure to recall a stored or default system configuration:
Enter the Recall Menu (FUNC + RECALL). Select a configuration number. From the Recall Menu, press the recall key sequence (function + recall).
*Note: Configuration 0 is the factory default setting.
Counter Menu (FUNC + AUX1 key)
Counter Enable Counter Enable
T Counts
T Counts
G Counts *
Help Line
Help Line
- Enabled when the Trigger Mode is set to Dual Trigger operation
(Instrument must be equipped with the Dual Trigger Option. Visit
www.berkeleynucleonics.com for more details).
Using the Counter Function
The Counter function counts the number of T0 pulses output by the system
clock. When the unit is operated in system single shot mode, the T0 count
reflects the number of incoming trigger pulses.
Information Menus (FUNC + 0 key)
Information Menu A
Model Number Serial Number Firmware Ver. FPGA Ver.
Information Menu B
FW ID # GA ID # Module IDs Instr. Options
The Information Menus provide all of the pertinent version numbers and serial
numbers for the unit. This information should be readily available when
contacting customer service for troubleshooting help.
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7 Operating the 575
Quick Start – Normal Internal Rate Generator Operation
The 575 has a powerful set of functions providing a number of modes of opera-
tion for the internal or “System” rate generator (T0). Most of these functions
can be ignored if a simple continuous stream of pulses is required. Starting
from the default settings, which can be restored by recalling configuration 0,
the following parameters need to be set:
Pulse Width, Delay Enter the Channel menus by pressing the letter key. Enter the required pulse width and delay. Repeat for each output channel.
T0 Period
Enter the Rate menu by pressing the FUNC key and then the RATE key. Set the desired pulse period. Note that in general, the pulse delay plus the pulse width, plus a 75ns hardware reset constant, for any channel must be less than the T0 period.
Start
Press the RUN/STOP key to start generating pulses.
Stop
Press the RUN/STOP key a second time to stop gen·erating pulses.
Quick Start – Normal External Trigger Operation
To generate a single pulse for every external trigger event, based on the
default configuration 0, the following parameters need to be set:
System Mode
Enter the System Mode menu by pressing the FUNC key and then the MODE key. Select Single Shot mode.
Trig
Enter the Trigger menu by pressing the TRIG key.
Select Triggered.
Level
Press the NEXT key until the Level parameter is highlighted. Set the trigger threshold voltage to approximately 50% of the trigger signal amplitude.
Edge
Press the NEXT key until the Edge parameter is
high·lighted. Set the instrument to trigger off the rising edge or falling
edge as desired.
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Pulse Width, Delay Enter the Channel menus by pressing the letter key. Enter the required pulse width and delay. Repeat for each output channel.
Start
Press the RUN/STOP key to start/arm the instrument. The 575 will now generate a pulse for every valid trigger.
Stop
Press the RUN/STOP key a second time to
stop/dis·arm the instrument (i.e. to stop generating pulses).
System Timer Overview
For internal operation, the 575 contains a timer and mode generator which
generates an internal T0 clock that is used to trigger all the channel timers.
System modes are controlled via the MODE menu.
To Use Continuous Mode
The RUN/STOP button starts and stops a continuous pulse stream at the rate
specified by the Rate menu. This corresponds to the normal output mode for
most pulse generators.
To generate a continuous stream of pulses:
– within the system Mode menu
Mode
Select Continuous for the system mode.
– within the Rate menu
Source
Select the system oscillator or the external clock in
frequency.
Period
Set the desired period.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will now generate a stream of T0 pulses at a rate specified by the period parameter.
To Use Single Shot Mode To generate a single pulse with every press of the RUN/STOP key:
– within the system Mode menu
Mode
Select Single Shot for the system mode.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will now generate a single pulse.
To Use System Burst Mode Function
The RUN/STOP button generates a stream of “n” T0 pulses, where “n” is
speci·fied by the Burst parameter. The rate is specified in the Rate menu.
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Pressing the RUN/STOP button while the burst is in process will stop the output. After the burst has been completed, pressing the RUN/STOP button will generate an·other burst. T0 generate a burst of pulses:
– within the system Mode menu
Mode:
Select the Burst mode.
Burst:
Set the number of pulses to produce in the burst.
To Use System Duty Cycle Function
The RUN/STOP button starts a continuous pulse stream which oscillates on for
the “n” pulses and off for “m” pulses, where “n” and “m” are specified by the
On and Off parameters, respectively. The rate is specified in the Rate Menu.
To generate a stream of pulses which oscillates on for n’ pulses and off for m’ pulses:
– within the system Mode menu
Mode:
Select the Duty Cycle mode.
On:
Set the number of pulses to produce during the on
cycle.
Off:
Set the number of pulses to skip during the off cycle.
– within the Rate menu
Source:
Select the system oscillator or the external clock in
frequency.
Period:
Set desired Period.
Channel Timer Overview
The output of each channel is controlled by two timers to generate the delay
timing and the pulse width. All channels are simultaneously triggered,
depending on the system mode, by the internal T0 pulse, the external trigger,
or a trigger provided by the operating software. A given channel may or may
not generate a pulse depending on its own channel mode as described below.
When one channel is generating a continuous stream of pulses, a user can trigger a single shot or burst of pulses on another channel without interrupting the continuous stream by pressing the FUNC and the RUN/STOP key.
To Use Channel Normal Mode Function
The Normal mode generates a continuous stream of pulses at a rate determined
by the system timer:
– within the Channel menus
Enable:
Select Enable to enable channel output.
Dly:
Set the desired delay.
Wid:
Set the desired pulse width.
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Mode:
Select the Normal mode.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will now generate a continuous stream of pulses.
To Use Channel Single Shot Function
The Single Shot mode generates a single pulse every time the RUN/STOP key is
pressed. If the unit is in the active state, ( i.e. channels which are set to
the Normal mode are producing pulses), pressing the FUNC key and RUN/STOP key
will reset the Single Shot counters and generate one pulse in sync with the
other channels running in the Normal mode. To use the Single Shot mode:
– within the Channel menus
Enable:
Select “Enabled” to enable channel output.
Delay:
Set the desired delay.
Width:
Set the desired pulse width.
Mode:
Select the Single shot mode.
To Use Channel Burst Mode Function
The Burst mode generates a burst of pulses every time the RUN/STOP key is
pressed. If the unit is in the active state, (i.e. channels which are set to
the Normal mode are producing pulses), pressing the FUNC – RUN/STOP key
sequence will reset the Burst counters and generate a new set of pulses in
sync with the other channels running in the Normal mode. FUNC – RUN/STOP will
not affect T0 pulse status. To use the Burst mode:
– within the Channel menus
Enable:
Select “Enabled” to enable channel output.
Delay:
Set the desired delay.
Width:
Set the desired pulse width.
Mode:
Select the Burst mode.
/Burst:
Set the number of pulses to produce in the burst.
To Use the Channel Duty Cycle Function
To generate a stream of pulses which oscillates on for n’ pulses and off for m’ pulses:
– within the Channel menus
Enable:
Select “Enabled” to enable channel output.
Delay:
Set the desired delay.
Width:
Set the desired pulse width.
Mode:
Select the Duty Cycle mode.
On Cycle:
Set the number of pulses to produce during the on
cycle.
Off Cycle:
Set the number of pulses to skip during the off cycle.
*Note: Older Berkeley Nucleonics pulse generators had a divide-by-n func·tion. The duty cycle mode is a more general case. To reproduce the divide·by-n
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function, set the on cycle to 1 and set the off cycle to (n-1), where “n” is the divide-by-n factor.
To Use the Channel Gating Function
Each channel may use the external input to gate or control its output. The
gate controls the triggering of the channel. To use the gate, set the
following parameters
– within the Channel menu
Mode:
In Gate Menu must be set to Channel Menu.
Channel Gate:
Select “Pulse Inh” or “Output Inh”.
Logic:
Select active high or active low.
In the “Pulse inhibit” method, the gate prevents the channel from being
triggered by the channel’s trigger source pulse. If a pulse has already
started when the gate disables the channel, the pulse will continue normal
output but will not restart on the next pulse. In the “Output inhibit” method,
the gate leaves the base triggering alone and enables/disables the output
directly. Output pulses will immediately cease when the gate signal is
removed
External Input Overview
The external inputs may be used to trigger the unit or to gate the system or
channel timers. When using a trigger input, the external input acts as a
system start pulse. Depending on the system mode, the result of a trigger
input can be either a single pulse, a burst of pulses or the start of a stream
of pulses.
To Generate a Pulse on Every Trigger Input
To generate a pulse on every external trigger received, set the following
param·eters:
– within the Mode menu
Mode:
Select the Single Shot mode.
– within the Trigger menu
Mode:
Select Triggered mode.
Level:
Set the trigger threshold level.
Edge:
Select which edge, rising or falling, to trigger on.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will arm the unit. Once the unit is armed, it will generate a T0 pulse for every external trigger received. Pressing the RUN/STOP key will disarm the unit. This mode corresponds to the normal external trigger mode found on most other pulse generators.
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To Generate a Burst of Pulses on Every Trigger Input
To generate a burst of pulses for every external trigger received set the
following parameters:
– within the Mode menu
Mode:
Select the Burst mode.
Burst:
Set the number of pulses to generate in each burst.
· within the Rate menu
To:
Set the period between pulses.
– within the Rate menu
Source:
Select the system oscillator or an external clock in
frequency.
To:
Set the period between pulses.
– within the Trigger menu
Mode:
Select Triggered mode.
Level:
Set the trigger threshold level.
Edge:
Select which edge, rising or falling, to trigger on.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will arm the unit. Once the unit is armed, it will generate a set of pulses for every external trigger received. The unit is reset at the end of a burst and will generate another set of pulses upon receiving a new trigger. Triggers that occur in the middle of a burst are ignored. Pressing the RUN/STOP key will disarm the unit.
To Start a Continuous Stream of Pulses Using the External Trigger The external trigger may be used to start the unit generating pulses:
– within the Mode menu
Mode:
Select the Continuous mode.
– within the Rate menu
Source:
Select the system oscillator or an external clock in
frequency.
To:
Set the period between pulses.
– within the Trigger menu
Mode:
Select the Trigger mode.
Level:
Set the trigger threshold level.
Edge:
Select which edge, rising or falling, to trigger on.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will arm the unit. Once the unit is armed, it will begin generating pulses after an external trigger is received. Triggers
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that occur after the pulses start are ignored. Pressing the RUN/STOP key a second time will disarm the unit.
To use the External Gate to Control the System
The external gate may be used to control the output of the unit. To gate the
system timer:
– within the Mode menu
Mode:
Select the desired mode.
– within the Rate menu
Source:
Select the system oscillator or an external clock in
frequency.
Per:
Set the period between pulses.
– within the Gate menu
Mode:
Select “Pulse Inh” or “Output Inh”.
Level:
Set the gate threshold level.
Logic:
Select active high or active low.
Pressing the RUN/STOP key will arm the unit. Once the unit is armed, it will begin generating pulses whenever the external gate input is in the active state. Pressing the RUN/STOP key a second time will disarm the unit.
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8 Programming the 575
Personal Computer to Pulse Generator Communication
The 575 ships standard with an RS232 serial and USB interface. Ethernet and
GPIB interfaces are available as an option. All menu settings can be set and
retrieved over the computer interface using a simple command language. The
command set is structured to be consistent with the Standard Commands for
Programmable Instruments. Although due to the high number of special features
found in the 575, many of the commands are not included in the specification.
The syntax is the same for all interfaces. The amount of time required to
receive, process, and respond to a command at a Baud rate of 115200 is
approximately 10 ms. Sending commands faster than 10 ms may cause the unit to
not respond properly. It is advised to wait until a response from the previous
command is received before sending the next command.
WARNING: When communicating with the unit (USB, Serial or Ethernet), avoid
sending any commands that include the “*” character as the unit is booting up.
This may result in an undesired lockup of the instrument.
RS232 Interface Overview
The serial port is located on the back of the 575 and uses a 9-pin D-type
connector with the following pinout (as viewed from the back of the unit):
1 No Connection 2 Tx – Transmit (to computer) 3 Rx – Receive (from computer) 4 DTR – Connected to pin 6 5 Ground 6 DSR – Connected to pin 4 7 RTS – Connected to pin 8 8 CTS – Connected to pin 7 9 No Connection
The serial port parameters should be set as follows:
Baud Rate Data Bits Parity Stop Bits
4800, 9600 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200* 8 None 1
*The default baud rate for the RS232 is 115200.
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USB Interface Overview
The USB interface is standard on the 575. Before this type of communication
can be used, the appropriate drivers must be installed on the personal
computer (pc). These drivers are included on the CD that was shipped with your
unit. Please contact Berkeley Nucleonics or visit www.berkeleynucleonics.com
for updated installation files and instructions.
USB communication is achieved by using a mapped (virtual) COM port on the PC.
The driver installation executable will obtain an unused COM port number,
install the USB drivers, and make that COM port number available for typical
RS232 communication to the pulse generator. HyperTerminal or other common
software may be used.
When communicating through the mapped COM port over USB, the baud rate for the
communication port used by the USB chip must match the baud rate for the COM
port on the PC. Access to the USB port baud rate is done using the SCPI
command “:SYSTem:COMMunicate:SERial:USB
USB communication notes:
The correct drivers must be installed on the personal computer before
communication can be accomplished via USB. The BAUD rates on the PC and on the
pulse generator must match for successful communication. The USB port’s BAUD
rate on the pulse generator can be set using the SCPI command
“:SYSTem:COMMunicate:SERial:USB
o 4800 o 9600 o 19200 o 38400 (default)
USB 1.0 specification is used. The USB cable can be removed without
“unplugging” the device in the operating system environment. Echo
functionality is not available on the USB port.
GPIB Interface Overview
A GPIB interface is optional on the 575. Refer to Appendix C for more
information.
Ethernet Interface Overview
An Ethernet interface is optional on the 575. Refer to Appendix C for more
information.
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Programming Command Types and Format
The 575 Pulse Generator uses two types of programming commands: IEEE 488.2
Common Commands and Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI). The
format is the same for all interfaces. HyperTerminal (in Windows) or any other
generic terminal program may be used to interactively test the commands using
the RS232 interface. The format of each type is described in the following
paragraphs.
Line Termination
The pulse generator uses text-style line terminations. When a command is sent
to the unit, the firmware is programmed to read characters from a
communication port until it reads the line termination sequence.
The command string is parsed and executed after reading these characters.
These characters are the “carriage return” and “linefeed”. They are ASCII
char·acter set values 13 and 10 respectively (hex 0x0D and 0x0A). All command
strings need to have these characters appended.
When the pulse generator responds to a command, whether it is a query or a
parameter change, it also appends its return strings with these characters.
Coded applications could use this behavior to know when to stop reading from
the unit. However, if the “echo” parameter is enabled, there will be two sets
of line terminators, one following the echoed command string, and one
following the pulse generator’s response.
Note: The pulse generator will echo commands on the DB9 serial port only.
The pulse generator responds to every communication string. If the
communica·tion string is a query, the unit responds with the queried response
(or error code) followed by the line terminators. If the communication string
is a parameter change, the response is “ok” (or error code) followed by the
line terminators. For this reason, it is not recommended that multiple
commands be stacked together into single strings as is common with some other
types of instruments. It is recommended that the coded application send a
single command in a string and follow immediately by reading the response from
the unit. Repeat this sequence for multiple commands.
IEEE 488.2 Common Command Format
The IEEE 488.2 Common Commands control and manage generic system functions
such as reset, configuration storage and identification. Common commands
always begin with the asterisk () character and may include param·eters. The
parameters are separated from the command pneumonic by a space character. For
Example:
RST
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*IDN?
SCPI Command Format
SCPI Command Keywords The commands are shown as a mixture of upper and lower
case letters. The upper case letters indicate the abbreviated spelling for the
command. You may send either the abbreviated version or the entire keyword.
Upper and/or lower case characters are acceptable.
For example, if the command keyword is given as POLarity, then POL and
POLARITY are both acceptable forms; truncated forms such as POLAR will
generate an error; polarity, pol, and PolAriTy are all acceptable as the pulse
generator is not case sensitive.
SCPI Command Format SCPI commands control and set instrument specific
functions such as setting the pulse width, delay and period. SCPI commands
have a hierarchical struc·ture composed of functional elements that include a
header or keywords sepa·rated with a colon, data parameters, and terminators.
For example:
SCPI Format :PULSE1:STATE ON
Any parameter may be queried by sending the command with a question mark
appended. For example:
– QUERY FORMAT :PULSE1:STATE?
:PULSE1:WIDT?
:PULSE1:POL?
SCPI Keyword Separator A colon (:) must always separate one keyword from the
next lower-level key·word. A space must be used to separate the keyword header
from the first parameter. If more than one parameter is used, you must
separate subsequent parameters with a comma.
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SCPI Optional Keywords
Optional keywords and/or parameters appear in square brackets ( [ ] ) in the
command syntax. Note that the brackets are not part of the command and should
not be sent to the pulse generator. When sending a second level key·word
without the optional keyword, the pulse generator assumes that you intend to
use the optional keyword and responds as if it had been sent.
SCPI Specific and Implied Channel
Some commands, such as PULSe, allow specifying a channel with an optional
numeric keyword suffix. The suffix will be shown in square brackets [ 1 / 2 ].
The brackets are not part of command and are not to be sent to the pulse
generator. The numeric parameters correspond to the following channels: 0 =
T0, 1 = ChA, 2 = ChB, etc. Only one channel may be specified at a time.
If you do not specify the channel number, the implied channel is specified by the :INSTrument:SELect command or the last referenced channel.
After power-up or reset (*RST) the instrument default is channel #1.
SCPI Parameter Types The following parameter types are used:
Accepts all commonly used decimal representation of numbers including optional signs, decimal points, and scientific notation: 123, 123e2, -123, -1.23e2, .123, 1.23e-2, 1.2300E-01. Represents a single binary condition that is either true or false. True is represented by a 1 or ON; false is rep·resented by a 0 or OFF. Queries return 1 or 0. Selects from a finite number of predefined strings.
Error Codes
The unit responds to all commands with either: ok
Where “n” is one of the following error codes:
1 Incorrect prefix, i.e. no colon or * to start command. 2 Missing command keyword. 3 Invalid command keyword. 4 Missing parameter. 5 Invalid parameter. 6 Query only, command needs a question mark. 7 Invalid query, command does not have a query form. 8 Command unavailable in current system state.
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Programming Examples
Example 1)
20 ms pulse width, 2.3 ms delay, 10 Hz, internal trigger, continuous
operation.
:PULSE1:STATE ON
enables channel A sets polarity to active high sets pulse width to 20 ms sets delay to 2.3 ms sets system mode to continuous sets period to 100 ms (10 Hz) disables the external trigger
To start the pulses use either of the following commands:
:PULSE0:STATE ON
starts the pulses alternate form to start pulses
Example 2)
25µs pulse width, 0 delay, external trigger, one pulse for every trigger.
:PULSE1:STATE ON
enables channel A sets polarity to active high sets pulse width to 25µs sets delay to 0 sets system mode to single shot sets system to external trigger sets trigger level to 2.5 v set to trigger on rising edge
To arm the instrument in external gate mode, use either of the following commands:
:PULSE0:STATE ON
arms the instrument
:INST:STATE ON
alternate form if T0 is currently
selected
A software generated external trigger can be generated by using the
following command:
*TRG
generates a software external trigger
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575 INSTrument Commands (SCPI Command Summary)
Keyword :INSTrument
:CATalog?
:FULL?
:COMMands? :NSELect
:SELect
:STATe
Parameter
0-8 T0,CHA,CHB,CHC,CHD, CHE,CHF,CHG,CHH
0/1 or ON/OFF
Comments
Subsystem. Supports treating each channel as a logical instrument.
Query only. Returns a comma-separated list of the names of all channels. A two
channel instrument would return: T0,CHA,CHB.
Query only. Returns a comma-separated list of the names of all channels and
their associated number. A two channel instrument would return: T0 , 0, CHA,
1, CHB, 2.
Query only. Returns an indented list of all SCPI commands.
Selects a channel using the channel’s numeric value. All channel specific
commands will refer to the selected channel.
Selects a channel using the channel’s identifier string. All subsequent
channel specific commands will refer to the selected channel.
Enables/Disables the selected channel output. If T0 is selected all output is
affected. Enabling T0 is the same as pressing the RUN button.
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575 System PULSe[0] Commands (SCPI Command Summary)
Keyword :PULSe[0] :COUNter :STATe :CLear :COUNts
:STATe
:PERiod :MODe
:BCOunter :PCOunter
:OCOunter
:ICLock
:OCLock
:GATe :MODe
:LOGic :LEVel :TRIGger :MODe :LOGic :LEVel
Parameter
0/1 or ON/OFF TCNTS/GCNTS TCNTS/GCNTS
0/1 or ON/OFF
100ns-5000s NORMal /
SINGle / BURSt / DCYCle
1-9,999,999 1-9,999,999
1-9,999,999
SYS / EXT10 / EXT20 / EXT25 / EXT40 / EXT50 / EXT80 / EXT100 T0 / 10 / 11 / 12
/ 14 / 16 / 20 / 25 /
33 / 50 / 100
DISabled / PULSe / OUTPut
/ CHANnel LOW / HIGH .20V – 15V
DISabled / TRIGgered RISing / FALLing .20V – 15V
Comments Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation.
Commands without suffix refer to the currently selected logical instrument.
See INSTrument subsystem. Subsystem. Contains commands to define the Counter
function. Enables/Disables the counter function. Clears the designated
counter. Standard units only have the Trigger counter. Queries the number of
counts for the specified input. Standard units only have the Trigger counter.
Enables / Disables the output for all channels. Command is the same as
pressing the RUN/STOP button. Sets the T0 period. Sets the T0 mode.
Burst Counter. Number of pulses to generate in the Burst mode. Pulse Counter.
Number of pulses to generate during on cycle of the Duty Cycle mode. Off
Counter. Number of pulses to inhibit output during the off cycle of the Duty
Cycle mode. Sets Source for the internal rate generator. System Clock or
External Source ranging from 10MHz to 100MHz.
Sets external clock output. T0 Pulse or 50% duty cycle TTL output from 10MHz
to 100MHz. Subsystem. Contains the commands to define the Gate function. Sets
Global Gate Mode. Disable, pulse inhibit, output inhibit, channel.
Sets Channel Gate logic level. Active low or active high. Sets the gate
threshold. Value is in volts with a range of .20 to 15 Volts. Subsystem.
Contains the commands to define the Trigger function. Sets Trigger Mode.
Disable or TRIG (enable).
Selects which edge (rising or falling) to use as the trigger signal. Sets the
Trigger Threshold. Value is in volts, with a range of .20 to 15 Volts.
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575 Channel PULSe[n] Commands (SCPI Command Summary)
Keyword :PULSe [1 / 2 / n] :STATe :WIDTh :DELay
:SYNC :MUX :POLarity
:OUTPut :MODe :AMP
:CMODe
:BCOunter :PCOunter :OCOunter :WCOunter :CGATe
:CLOGic
Parameter
0/1 or ON/OFF 10ns –
999.99999999975s –
999.99999999975s –
999.99999999975s TO, CHA, CHB, CHC, CHD, etc. 0-255
NORMal / COMPlement /
INVerted
TTL/ ADJustable/ 2.0V to 20V
NORMal / SINGle / BURSt / DCYCle 1-9,999,999
1-9,999,999
1-9,999,999
0-9,999,999
DIS / PULS / OUTP
LOW / HIGH
Comments Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation.
Valid suffix range depends on the number of channels (ChA = 1, ChB = 2, etc).
Command without suffix refers to the currently selected logical instrument.
See INSTrument subsystem. Enables/Disables the output pulse for selected
channel. Sets the width or duration of the output pulse. Sets the time from
the start of the T0 period to the first edge of the pulse.
Selects the Sync source.
Selects which timers are enabled as output for the current channel. Sets the
polarity of the pulse. For NORMal operation the second nominal state is more
positive than the first. COMPlement and INVerted are aliases. For both, the
second state is more negative than the first. Subsystem. Contains command to
control output mode. Selects output Amplitude mode: TTL/CMOS, ADJustable. Sets
adjustable output level. Channel Mode. Sets the channel pulse series output
mode.
Burst Counter. Sets the number of pulses to generate when channel is in the
BURST mode. Pulse Counter. Sets the number of pulses to generate during the on
cycle of the Duty Cycle Mode. Off Counter. Number of pulses to inhibit output
during the off cycle of the Duty Cycle mode. Sets the number of T0 pulses to
delay until enabling output. Sets Channel Gate Mode. Disable, pulse inhibit,
output inhibit. (Global Gate Mode must be set to CHAN for this command to be
available). Sets Channel Gate Logic level. Active low or active high. (Global
Gate Mode must be set to CHAN for this command to be available.
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575 SYSTem Commands (SCPI Command Summary)
Keyword :SYSTem
:STATe?
:BEEPer :STATe :VOLume
:COMMunicate :GPIB :ADDRess
:SERial
:BAUD
:USB
:ECHo :KLOCk :AUTorun
Parameter
Comments
0/1 or ON/OFF 0 – 100
1-15
4800 / 9600 / 19200 / 38400 / 57600 / 115200 /
4800 / 9600 / 19200 / 38400
0/1 or ON/OFF 0/1 or ON/OFF 0/1 or ON/OFF
Query only. Returns the state of the machine: returns “1” if the machine is
armed and/or generating pulses or “0” if the machine has been disarmed.
Subsystem. Controls the audible beeper. Enables/disables the beeper. Range is
0 to 100, Sets the volume of the beeper where 0 is off and 100 is maximum
volume. Subsystem. Controls the RS232 and GPIB interfaces. Subsystem. Controls
the physical configuration of the GPIB port. Sets the GPIB of the instrument.
Subsystem. Controls the physical configuration of the RS232 port.
Sets the baud rate for both receiving and transmitting using the DB9 RS232
port.
Sets the baud rate for communication when using mapped comports for USB
communication. Default value is 38400. Enables/Disables transmission of
characters received on the DB9 serial port. Locks the keypad. After power-up,
unit will start generating pulses .automatically
:VERSion? :SERN? :INFOrmation?
:NSID?
:CAPS
0/1 or ON/OFF
Query only. Returns SCPI version number in the form: YYYY.V ex. 1999.0 Query
only. Returns the serial number.
Query only. Returns model, serial number, firmware version, and FPGA version
numbers.
Query only. Returns firmware and FPGA identification numbers.
Forces unit to recognize commands only sent in capital letters. 1 turns on the
feature 0 disables the feature.
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575 DISPlay Commands (SCPI Command Summary)
Keyword :DISPlay
Parameter
Comments
Subsystem. Contains commands to control the display.
:MODe
:UPDate? :BRIGhtness
0/1 or ON/OFF 0-4
Enables/Disables automatic display update. When true, front panel display is
updated with serial command parameter changes. Setting to false decreases
response time.
Query only. Forces update of display. Use when mode is false.
Controls intensity of display. Range is 0 to 4, where 0 is off and 4 is full
intensity.
:ENABle
0/1 or ON/OFF
Enables/Disables the display and front panel lights. When Disabled the keylock is enabled to prevent parameter changes from the front panel.
IEEE 488.2 Common Commands
Keyword IDN?
RCL RST SAV *TRG
Parameter Identification Query
0-12
Reset Command 1-12
Trigger
Comments
Queries the Pulse Generator Identification. The ID will be in the following
format: manufacturer,model#,serial#,version#
Restores the state of the Pulse Generator from a copy stored in local
nonvolatile memory (0 through 12 are valid memory blocks).
Resets the Pulse Generator to the default state. Stores the current state of
the Pulse Generator in local nonvolatile memory (1 through 12 are valid memory
blocks). Generates a software trigger pulse. Operation is the same as
receiving an external trigger pulse.
Query Form returns the label of the last saved or recalled configuration.
LBL ARM
Setup Label
Channel Trigger Reset
Command Form sets the label string for the next “*SAV” command. String must be
in double quotes, 14 characters max.
Resets channel triggers when channels are set to single shot or burst mode.
Functions like pressing the function then run/stop button.
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Appendix A – 575 Specifications
INTERNAL RATE GENERATOR
RATE (T0 period) RESOLUTION ACCURACY JITTER SETTLING BURST MODE TIMEBASE
OSCILLATOR SYSTEM OUTPUT MODES
PULSE CONTROL MODES
0.0002 Hz to 10.000 MHz 10ns Same as timebase < 50 ps 1 period 1 to 9,999,999 pulses 100 MHz, low jitter PLL 50 MHz, 25ppm Single pulse, burst, duty cycle, continuous external gate/trigger Internal rate generator, external trigger/gate
PROGRAMMABLE TIMING GENERATOR
CHANNEL OUTPUT MODES CONTROL MODES
OUTPUT MULTIPLEXER
WAIT FUNCTION TIMEBASE WIDTHS
RANGE ACCURACY RESOLUTION DELAYS RANGE ACCURACY RESOLUTION PULSE INHIBIT DELAY
OUTPUT INHIBIT DELAY
Single shot, burst, duty cycle, normal Internally triggered, externally
triggered and external gate. Each channel may be independently set to any of
the modes. Timing of any/all channels may be multiplexed to any/all outputs. 0
to 9,999,999 pulses Same as internal rate generator
10 ns-999.99999999975 s 1 ns + 0.0001 x width 250 ps
0-999.99999999975 s 1 ns + 0.0001 x delay 250 ps < 120 ns typical < 50 ns
typical
SYSTEM EXTERNAL TRIGGER/GATE INPUT(S)
TRIGGER INPUT FUNCTION
RATE
Generate individual pulses, start a burst or continuous stream DC to 1/ (200 ns + longest active pulse). Maximum of 5 MHz
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SLOPE
GATE INPUT MODE POLARITY
Rising or Falling
Pulse inhibit or output inhibit Active high/active low
MODULE SPECIFICATIONS
TTL/ADJUSTABLE DUAL CHANNEL OUTPUT MODULE
(Standard)
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE
50 ohm
TTL/CMOS MODE
OUTPUT LEVEL RISE TIME SLEW RATE JITTER
4.0 V typ into 1 kohm 3 ns typ (10% – 90%) > 0.5 V/ns 50 ps RMS channel to channel
ADJUSTABLE MODE
OUTPUT LEVEL
OUTPUT RESOLUTION CURRENT RISE TIME
SLEW RATE OVERSHOOT
2.0 to 20 VDC into 1 k ohm 1.0 to 10.0 VDC into 50 ohm 10 mV 200 mA typical, 400 mA (short pulses) 15ns typ @ 20 V (high imp) 25ns typ @ 10 V (50 ohms) (10% – 90%) >0.1 V/ns <100 mV + 10% of pulse amplitude
TRIGGER/GATE DUAL INPUT MODULE (Standard)
Standard dual channel input module, providing one trigger input and one gate
input. May be used with the dual trigger firmware option to provide two
independent trigger sources.
THRESHOLD MAXIMUM INPUT VOLT. IMPEDANCE RESOLUTION
0.2 to 15 VDC 60 V Peak 1.2K ohm 10 mV
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TRIGGER INPUT
SLOPE JITTER INSERTION DELAY MINIMUM PULSE WIDTH
Rising or Falling 800 ps RMS <160 ns 2 ns
GATE INPUT POLARITY FUNCTION CHANNEL BEHAVIOR PULSE INHIBIT DELAY OUTPUT
INHIBIT DELAY
OPTICAL OUTPUTS
WAVELENGTH MAXIMUM SIGNAL RATE MAXIMUM LINK DIST. CONNECTOR TYPE
OPTICAL INPUTS
WAVELENGTH MAXIMUM SIGNAL RATE MAXIMUM LINK DIST. CONNECTOR TYPE INSERTION
DELAY JITTER
EXTERNAL CLOCK IN/OUT
CLOCK IN FREQUENCIES
THRESHOLD MAX INPUT VOLTAGE DUTY-CYCLE FREQUENCY JITTER CLOCK OUT FREQUENCIES
GENERAL
COMMUNICATIONS STORAGE DIMENSIONS WEIGHT POWER
Active High/Active Low Pulse Inhibit or Output Inhibit Global w/Individual
Channel 120 ns 50 ns
820 nm or 1300 nm 5 MBd 1.5 km ST
820 nm or 1300 nm 5MBd 1.5 km ST <300 ns <1.4 ns RMS
10 MHz 100 MHz user selectable in discrete values 2.3 V 5.5 V 50%
(Recommended) <10% To or Ref out (10 MHz 100 Mhz) user selectable in
discrete values
USB/RS232 12 storage bins 10.5″ x 8.25″ x 5.5″ 8 lbs 100 – 240 VAC 50/60 Hz
<3A
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FUSE
(Qty 2) 3.15A, 250 V Time-lag
OUTPUT MODULES
Standard AT20
Dual channel, TTL/CMOS & Adjustable output module
Optional L82 L130 AT35 AT45
TZ50
TZ35
Dual channel, 820nm optical output module Dual channel, 1300nm optical output module Dual channel, TTL/35 V high voltage output module Dual channel, 45 V high and low impedance voltage output module (limited to 4 channels) Dual channel, high current TTL/CMOS (for driving 50 ohm loads) & adjustable output module Dual channel, high current TTL/CMOS (for driving 50 ohm loads) & 35V high voltage output module
INPUT MODULES
Standard IA15
Dual channel, 1 trigger / 1 gate input module
Optional
IL82 IL130
Dual channel, 820nm optical input module Dual channel, 1300nm optical input module
System Options I
DT15 COM SRM DRM
Incrementing (provides automatic high speed incrementing /
decrementing of delay and/or pulse width for each channel)
Dual Trigger Logic provides additional trigger via gate input Extended
Communications Adds Ethernet & GPIB Single Rackmount
Dual Rackmount
*Other custom modules (LED drivers, higher voltages, current sources, and alternative input circuits) available, call with your request.
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Appendix B – Safety Symbols
Safety Marking Symbols
Technical specifications including electrical ratings and weight are included
within the manual. See the Table of Contents to locate the specifications and
other product information. The following classifications are standard across
all BNC Pulse Generator products:
Indoor use only Ordinary Protection: This product is NOT protected against the
harmful ingress of moisture. Class 1 Equipment (grounded type) Main supply
voltage fluctuations are not to exceed +/-10% of the nominal supply voltage.
Pollution Degree 2 Installation (overvoltage) Category II for transient
overvoltages Maximum Relative Humidity: <80% RH, non-condensing Operating
temperature range of 0o C to 40o C Storage and transportation temperature of
-40o C to 70o C Maximum altitude: 3000 m (9843 ft.) This equipment is suitable
for continuous operation.
This section provides a description of the safety marking symbols that appear
on the instrument. These symbols provide information about potentially
danger·ous situations which can result in death, injury, or damage to the
instrument and other components.
Symbols Publications; Descriptions & Comments
IEC 417, No. 5031 Direct current – VDC may be used on rating labels.
IEC 417, No. 5032 Alternating current – For rating labels, the symbol is
typically replaced by V and Hz as in 230V, 50Hz. DO NOT USE VAC.
IEC 417, No. 5033 Both direct and alternating current.
IEC 617-2 No. 02-02-06 Three-phase alternating current .
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IEC 417, No. 5017 Earth (ground) terminal – Primarily used for functional earth terminals which are generally associated with test and measurement circuits. These terminals are not for safety earthing purposes but provide an earth reference point.
IEC 417, No. 5019 Protective conductor terminal – This symbol is specifically reserved for the protective conductor terminal and no other. It is placed at the equipment earthing point and is mandatory for all grounded equipment .
IEC 417, No. 5020 Frame or chassis terminal – Used for points other than protective conductor and functional earth terminals where there is a connection to accessible conductive terminals to advise the user of a chassis connection.
I
EC 417, No. 5021
Equipotentiality – Used in applications where it is important to
indicate to the operator that two or more accessible functional earth
terminals or points are equipotential – More for functional rather
than for safety purposes.
IEC 417, No. 5007
On (Supply) – Note that this symbol is a bar, normally applied in the vertical
orientation. It is not the number 1.
IEC 417, No. 5008 Off (Supply) – Note that this symbol is a true circle. It is not the number 0 or the letter O.
IEC 417, No. 5172 Equipment protected by double insulation or reinforced insulation (equivalent to Class II if IEC 60536).
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ISO 3864, No. B.3.6 Background colour – yellow; symbol and outline black
Caution, risk of electric shock – Generally used only for voltages in excess
of 1000 V. It is permissible to use it to indicate lower voltages if an
explanation is provided in the manual. Colour requirements do not apply to
markings on equipment if the symbol is molded or engraved to a depth or raised
height of 0.5 mm, or that the symbol and outline are contrasting in colour
with the background.
IEC 417, No. 5041 Background colour – yellow; symbol and outline black
Caution, hot surface – Colour requirements do not apply to markings on
equipment if the symbol is moulded or engraved to a depth or raised height of
0.5 mm, or that the symbol and outline are contrasting in colour with the
background.
ISO 3864, No. B.3.1 Background colour – yellow; symbol and outline black
Caution – (refer to accompanying documents) used to direct the user to the
instruction manual where it is necessary to follow certain specified
instructions where safety is involved. Colour requirements do not apply to
markings on equipment if the symbol is moulded or engraved to a depth or
raised height of 0.5 mm, or that the symbol and outline are contrasting in
colour with the background.
IEC 417, No. 5268-a In-position of bistable push control.
IEC 417, No. 5269-a Out-position of bistable push control.
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Appendix C – COM Option
COM Overview
The COM Option for the 575 includes a GPIB and an Ethernet interface in
addition to the RS232 and USB interfaces included with the standard product.
The command set is the same for the RS-232, USB, GPIB, and Ethernet. Different
interfaces may be used at the same time. Responses will be made to the most
recently used interface.
GPIB Interface
Also known as IEEE-488, a GPIB computer interface is optional on the 575.
Before using this interface, the address must be set using the GPIB address
menu item.
Ethernet Interface
The Ethernet module used is a “Digi Connect ME” module supplied by Digi
Connectware, Inc. There are several ways to successfully communicate with the
pulse generator over Ethernet. The two most popular methods are raw TCP/IP
(such as LabView or programming with VISA libraries) and by mapping a PC COM
port using the Digi Connectware’s “Realport Drivers”.
IP Address and Raw TCP/IP Connection This document describes one of the most
popular methods of setting up Ethernet communication for the Berkeley
Nucleonics pulse generators. The method discussed is Raw TCP/IP communication.
The Ethernet module used in Berkeley Nucleonics pulse generators is a “Digi
Connect ME” device manufactured by Digi International, Inc. It supports
virtually all practical Ethernet communication methods. A set of utilities and
documentation by Digi is included on the CD shipped with the pulse generator.
This discussion assumes that the Digi utilities included with your pulse
generator and National Instruments VISA (version 3.3 in this procedure, see
National Instruments’ website) are installed. The procedures discussed have
been prepared using Windows XP service pack 2.
Determining IP Address The Digi module has been reset to factory defaults
before it left the manufactur·ing facility. In this mode, it is ready to be
assigned an IP address by the local DHCP server. If a crossover cable is being
used, the Ethernet device will as·sume a default IP address.
The Digi utility “Digi Device Discovery” can be used to determine the IP
address that is currently assigned to the Ethernet module. Hit “Start, All
Programs, Digi
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Connect, Digi Device Discovery”. When the utility opens, it scans the LAN looking for Digi Ethernet modules. It may take a minute after plugging in or powering the Ethernet module before the LAN negotiates the connection with the Digi module. Hit “Refresh View” in the left column after a minute or so if the utility fails to see the unit when you start it. In some situations it is possible that the Windows Firewall will block the Digi Device Discovery from being able to see the unit. It is advisable to turn the Windows Firewall off while performing these tasks. When the utility sees the Digi device, it will display it in the list (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Digi Device Discovery utility displaying Digi module discovered on
the LAN.
From this point, a web interface can be opened, allowing access to
configura·tion options for the Digi module. If you are required to enter a
username and password, they are as follows:
Username: “root” Password: “dbps”
If a static IP address is desired, this change can be made from the web
interface. Please note, however, that if the IP address is changed such that
it is incompatible with the LAN, all communication including access to the
module’s settings (including the IP address!) will no longer be possible over
the LAN. If this happens, a crossover cable must be used to access the Digi
module’s settings (again using Digi Device Discovery). Temporarily set the
pc’s IP ad-dress to be compatible with the Digi module’s IP address to get the
pc and pulse generator to `see’ each other over the crossover cable.
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Appendix D – DT15 (Dual Trigger Option)
DT15 Overview
This module option allows the “Gate” input to function as a second trigger
input. For consistency, the enabling menu for this option is located under the
“Trig” menu structure. Once the dual trigger mode is enabled, both the “Gate”
and “Trig” inputs can act as trigger inputs.
Adjustments for the “Gate” trigger input are located under the “Gate” menu structure. The voltage threshold level and trigger edge for the “Gate” input can be adjusted from this menu. The “Gate” trigger edge choice is only available when in dual trigger mode.
Once dual trigger functionality is enabled on the unit, each channel can be
as·signed to either of the trigger inputs. The default trigger source for each
channel is the “Trig” input. The trigger source selection is accessed in the
secondary channel menus. To access this menu, first press the yellow “Func”
button fol-lowed by the channel of interest. Continue to press “Func” then the
channel button until the menu page with “Ch Gate:” and “TrigSrc:” appears. Use
the “Next” button to place the cursor on the “TrigSrc” line and use the
up/down arrows to change to the desired trigger source.
DT15 Menus
Trigger 1 Menu (TRIG key)
Mode: Disabled
Mode: Triggered Threshold Level
Trigger Edge
Mode: Dual Trig *
Threshold Level Trigger Edge
Enabling System Trigger Enable the use of the TRIG input by the system timer as a trigger source.
Mode: Level:
Selects between disabling/enabling the trigger mode(s). Sets the trigger threshold. Edge: Selects between rising and falling edges as the trigger source when a trigger mode is enabled.
Trigger 2 Menu (GATE key) *
Mode: Disabled Mode: Triggered
Mode: Dual Trig
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Threshold Level Threshold
Level
Trigger Edge
Trigger Edge
*Only enabled when TRIG mode is set to “Dual Trig”. Functions as Standard Gate Menu when not in “Dual Trig” mode.
DT15 SCPI Command Summary
Keyword :PULSe [0]
Parameter
:TRIGger :MODe
:PULSe[1/2/n] :CTRIGger
DUAL GATE/TRIG
Comments
Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation. Commands
without suffix refer to the currently selected logical instrument. See
INSTrument subsystem.
Subsystem. Contains commands to define the Trigger function. Sets the unit
into dual trigger mode.
Valid suffix range depends on the number of channels (ChA = 1, ChB = 2, etc).
Sets which input is assigned to the channel trigger.
DT15 IEEE 488.2 Command Summary
Keyword TTG
GTG
Command Name Trigger Trigger Input
Trigger Gate Input
Comments
Generates a software trigger pulse for the TRIG input only. Operation is the
same as receiving an external trigger pulse on the Trigger input.
Generates a software trigger pulse for the GATE input only. Operation is the
same as receiving an external trigger pulse on the Gate input.
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Appendix E – AT35 (35V Output Option)
AT35 Description
When the Adjustable Mode is enabled for this module, the outputs will provide
an adjustable output from 5 volts to 35 volts. The pulse width can be set over
the standard range of the unit, but the 35 volt output will self limit to
approximately 4 µs with some droop. There is no change to TTL output mode
functionality with this module.
To maintain the highest possible rise time, care must be taken with cabling
and termination. Low capacitance cable and 50 ohm termination will provide the
fastest rise times without overshoot. Faster rise times can be achieved by
increasing the termination resistance, but some overshoot is likely to occur.
While the 35 volt output provides a fast, controlled rising edge, the pulse
width and falling edge are not tightly controlled. Also, when using the 35V
mode, the option will only function if the `Polarity’ is set for “Active
High”.
AT35 Specifications
Through a 50 ohm load at 200 Hz
Output Setpoint Resolution Rise Time Accuracy Max. Frequency (Internal & External)
5 V 35 V 10 mV < 30 ns 500 mV 4000 Hz
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1 Option TZ35 (35V Output / Fast Rise and TTL Impedance Matching)
Choose this option to combine the TZ50 and AT35 options on 4 or 8 channels. The TZ35 provides 4V into 50 ohms with a risetime of 2.8 ns, and an adjustable 35V pulse into 50 ohms with a risetime of 30 ns.
TZ35 Specifications TTL/CMOS Mode Output Level Rise Time Slew Rate Jitter –
Channel to Channel Adjustable Mode *Through a 50 load at 200 Hz Output
Setpoint Resolution Rise Time Accuracy
Max. Frequency (Internal & External)
4.0 V typ into 50 2.8 ns 0.5 V/ns 50 ps RMS
5 V 35 V 10 mV < 30 ns 500 mV
4000 Hz
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Appendix F – TZ50 (Impedance Matching Output Module)
TZ50 Overview
This module option allows a user to have a 50 Ohm load on the output while
maintaining output amplitude of at least 4 Volts while in the TTL/CMOS mode.
All other functionality of the module is the same as the AT20 modules,
including output while using the Adjustable Mode Function of the channels.
TZ50 Specifications
TTL/CMOS Mode
Output Level Rise Time Slew Rate Jitter – Channel to Channel
4.0 V typ into 50 Ohms 3 ns 0.5 V/ns 50 ps RMS
Adjustable Mode
Output Resolution Current Slew Rate
10 mV 100 mA typ, 400 mA max (short pulses) 0.1 V/ns
*Note: The TZ50 module has significant overshoot and ringing through high impedance (see figure below).
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Appendix G – Increment Modes Option
Increment Overview
The System Increment modes are a pair of special modes, which allow the delay and width of each channel to be incremented at the end of a burst of pulses. Each channel is independent and each may be set with different initial values and different values for the step size for both the delay and the pulse width.
There are two incrementing modes, Increment and DC Increment. In the Incre·ment mode, each start command or external trigger produces a burst of pulses. At the end of the burst the appropriate delays and pulse widths are incremented and the instrument is armed for the next start command. In the DC Increment (Duty Cycle) mode the output is starting as with the normal duty cycle mode. At the end of each cycle the delays and pulse widths are incremented. This contin·ues for the number of cycles defined by the Cycles parameter. The modes are selected from the system mode menu. The step sizes are specified in the channel menus.
Increment Menus
System Mode Menu 1 Extensions (FUNC + MODE key)
MODE: BurstIncr
/Burst
MODE: DCIncrement #/On #/Off
System Mode Menu 2 Extensions (FUNC + MODE key)
MODE: BurstIncr
T0 Period
MODE: DCIncrement
Cycles T0 Period
Setting System Increment Modes of Operation
The MODE menu sets the T0 system timer mode. The menu will show the extra set
parameters (Burst, On & Off) only when they are appropriate.
Mode: Burst: On:
Selects the T0 mode: Continuous, Single Shot, Burst or Duty Cycle mode. Sets the number of pulses to be generated when in Burst mode. Sets the number of pulses to be generated during each on cycle.
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Off: Cycles: To:
Sets the number of pulses to skip each during off cycle when in the Duty Cycle mode. Sets the number o DC Increment Cycles to generate before completion. Sets the T0 period which determines the fundamental output frequency of the unit.
Advanced Channel Menu Increment Extension (FUNC + channel key)
Channel Enable
Increment Wid Increment Dly
Setting the Channel Increment Parameters
To define a pulse requires two parameters: the delay to the active edge and
the width of the pulse.
IncW: IncD:
Sets the channel pulse width. Sets the channel delay until the active edge.
Increment SCPI Command Summary
Keyword :PULSe[0] :MODe :CYCLe :IRESet
:PULSe[1/2/n] :IWIDth :lDELay
Parameter
BINCRement /
Comments
Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation. Commands
without suffix refer to the currently selected logical instrument. See
INSTrument subsystem.
Sets the T0 mode. Added parameters for Burst Increment and Duty Cycle
Increment mode.
Sets the number of cycles to generate in Duty Cycle Increment mode.
Resets the width and delay increment parameters on all channels.
Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation. Valid
suffix range depends on the number of channels (ChA-1, ChB-2, etc . . .).
Command without suffix refers to the currently selected logical instrument.
See INSTrument’s subsystem. Sets the pulse width increment step size. Sets the
delay increment step size.
Increment Initialization and Reset (FUNC + CLR)
Pressing the FUNC key then CLR initializes the increment parameters and resets
the delays and pulse widths to their initial conditions. This must be done
after setting all the step parameters, but before generating any pulses.
Increment Specifications
Width Step Size Width Minimum Step
-1.00 s to 1.00 s 10 ns (-10 ns)
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Width Step Resolution Width Incremented Range
Delay Step Size Delay Minimum Step Delay Step Resolution Delay Incremented
Range
250 ps 10,000 s
-100 ms to 100 ms 10 ns (-10 ns) 250 ps 10,000 s
*Note: Any increment value between -10ns and 10ns will disable the increment function for that parameter.
Update Rate
10 µs + 30 µs per active channel (1 Ch @ 25 kHz to 8 Ch @ 4 kHz)
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Appendix H – AT45 Option (45 Volt Output)
AT45 Option Overview
For channels with AT45 output option, the maximum frequency is limited to 100
kHz. The pulse width can be set over the standard range of the unit with both
active high and low outputs when set to high impedance mode. In low impedance
mode, the pulse width is limited to a maximum of 10s and the active high
output is no longer allowed. To maintain the highest possible rise time, care
must be taken with cabling and termination. Low capacitance cable and 50 ohm
termination will provide the fastest rise times without overshoot. The channel
menu structure for the AT45 module changes are described in the table below
(changes from standard outputs are in bold italics).
AT45 Protection Error Messages
When an AT45 module is present, the system performs self-checks to insure the
module is not damaged when attempting to over-drive.
Module Errors If a channel on any AT45 module is over-driven, the channel will
disable itself and the system will indicate an error on the module. The error
will not clear until the user presses FUNC – PERIOD key sequence to clear the
error, or power cycles the instrument.
System Limit Error
The system will not allow the Lo Impedance enabled AT45 channels to exceed
150V total amplitude. If this situation occurs, the “Over-Driving Unit” error
is displayed and the currently adjusting amplitude is reduced to the 150V
enabled system limit.
Voltage Change Timing
The channels adjustable voltage changes very quickly when adjusting from a
lower voltage to a higher voltage but changes slowly when changing from a
higher voltage to a lower voltage. It takes approximately 30s to change from
45V to 3.0V so caution must be taken when adjusting the voltage to a lower
voltage tolerant circuit.
AT45 Channel Menus
Channel Output Configuration Menu
Channel Enable Output Type: High Z Polarity Output Level
Channel Enable Output Type: Low Z
Output Level
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AT45 SCPI Command Extension Summary
Keyword :PULSe [1 / 2 / n]
Parameter
:OUTPut
:MODe
:AMP :MERRor
HIZ / LOZ
4 V 45 V 1
Comments
Subsystem. Contains commands to control the output pulse generation. Valid
suffix range depends on the number of channels (ChA = 1, ChB = 2, etc).
Command without suffix refers to the currently selected logical instrument.
See INSTrument subsystem.
Subsystem. Contains command to control output mode.
Selects output Amplitude mode: High Impedance or Low Impedance Sets adjustable
output level.
Command clears the last module error to allow the unit to generate pulses
again. Query returns the last displayed error.
AT45 Specifications
Amplitude Resolution Accuracy
Rise Time
Fall Time
Frequency (Internal & External) Overshoot
Polarity – High Z (>10k) Polarity – Low Z (50 Ohms) Pulse Width – High Z
(>10k) Pulse Width – Low Z (50 Ohms) Current (maximum)
4 V 45 V 20 mV +/-1.5% < 2 ns Typical 10%-90% (Low Z) < 9 ns Typical 10%-90% (High Z) < 9 ns Typical 90%-10% (Low Z) < 7 ns Typical 90%-10% (High Z) DC 100 kHz <35% Typical Allowed for Fast Rise Time Active High or Active Low Active High Only 10 ns to DC 10 ns to 10 s 35 mA (High Z @10 ms width) 900 mA (Low Z @ 10 ms width)
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Figure 1 (High Z 5V)
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Figure 2 (High Z 45V)
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Figure 3 (Low Z 5V)
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Figure 4 (Low Z 45V)
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Rise time and overshoot are tuned for best response at low impedance (low Z)
Figure 5 (Rise Time versus Output Voltage)
Figure 6 (Fall Time versus Output Voltage)
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Figure 7 (Overshoot Versus Output Voltage)
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Contact Us
Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation 2955 Kerner Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901
Model Type User Manual
Document Version: 5.6 Print Code: 81028111
Phone: 415-453-9955 Email: info@berkeleynucleonics.com Web: www.berkeleynucleonics.com
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References
- Pulse & Delay Generators, RF/Microwave Signal Generators
- Pulse & Delay Generators, RF/Microwave Signal Generators
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