4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control

Product Information

Specifications:

• Model: 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control
• Document number: 4200A-KXCI-907-01 Rev. D May 2024
• Location: Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
• Website: tek.com/keithley

Safety Precautions:

The product is intended for use by personnel who recognize shock
hazards and are familiar with safety precautions. Read and follow
all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully
before using the product. Refer to the user documentation for
complete product specifications.

If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection
provided by the product warranty may be impaired. Exercise extreme
caution when a shock hazard is present. Operators must be protected
from electric shock at all times.

Types of Product Users:

• Responsible Body: Individual or group
  responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, ensuring it
  operates within specifications.

• Operators: Use the product for its intended
  function and must be trained in electrical safety procedures.

• Maintenance Personnel: Perform routine
  procedures to keep the product operating properly.

• Service Personnel: Trained to work on live
  circuits, perform safe installations, and repair products.

Product Usage Instructions:

1. Read the user documentation thoroughly before using the
   product.

2. Ensure operators are trained in electrical safety
   procedures.

3. Only trained service personnel should perform installation and
   service procedures.

4. Exercise caution when a shock hazard is present, and always
   assume hazardous voltage is present in any unknown circuit before
   measuring.

5. Operators must be protected from electric shock at all
   times.

FAQ:

Q: Can operators without electrical safety training use this

product?

A: No, operators must be trained in electrical safety procedures
before using the product to prevent electric shock hazards.

Q: What should maintenance personnel do to keep the product

operating properly?

A: Maintenance personnel should follow the procedures outlined
in the user documentation, such as setting line voltage or
replacing consumable materials.

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control
Programming
4200A-KXCI-907-01 Rev. D May 2024

tek.com/keithley

P4200A-KXCI-907-01D
4200A-KXCI-907-01D

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control
Programming

© 2024, Keithley Instruments
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
All rights reserved.
Any unauthorized reproduction, photocopy, or use of the information herein, in whole or in part, without the prior written approval of Keithley Instruments is strictly prohibited.
All Keithley Instruments product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, LLC. Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Actuate®
Copyright © 1993-2003 Actuate Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.
Microsoft, Visual C++, Excel, and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Document number: 4200A-KXCI-907-01 Rev. D May 2024

Safety precautions
The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. Although some instruments and accessories would normally be used with nonhazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous conditions may be present.
This product is intended for use by personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the product. Refer to the user documentation for complete product specifications.
If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection provided by the product warranty may be impaired.
The types of product users are:
Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that the equipment is operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.
Operators use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of the instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.
Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting the line voltage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the user documentation. The procedures explicitly state if the operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.
Service personnel are trained to work on live circuits, perform safe installations, and repair products. Only properly trained service personnel may perform installation and service procedures.
Keithley products are designed for use with electrical signals that are measurement, control, and data I/O connections, with low transient overvoltages, and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient overvoltages. Measurement Category II (as referenced in IEC 60664) connections require protection for high transient overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Certain Keithley measuring instruments may be connected to mains. These instruments will be marked as category II or higher.
Unless explicitly allowed in the specifications, operating manual, and instrument labels, do not connect any instrument to mains.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test fixtures. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30 V RMS, 42.4 V peak, or 60 VDC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any unknown circuit before measuring.
Operators of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible body must ensure that operators are prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential human contact. Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of electric shock. If the circuit is capable of operating at or above 1000 V, no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.
Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended to be used with impedance-limited sources. NEVER connect switching cards directly to AC mains. When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective devices to limit fault current and voltage to the card.
Before operating an instrument, ensure that the line cord is connected to a properly-grounded power receptacle. Inspect the connecting cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.
When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main input power disconnect device must be provided in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the circuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before connecting or disconnecting cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or removing jumpers.
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth) ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage being measured.

For safety, instruments and accessories must be used in accordance with the operating instructions. If the instruments or accessories are used in a manner not specified in the operating instructions, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories. Maximum signal levels are defined in the specifications and operating information and shown on the instrument panels, test fixture panels, and switching cards.
When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard.
Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as protective earth (safety ground) connections.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires the use of a lid interlock.

If a screw is present, connect it to protective earth (safety ground) using the wire recommended in the user documentation.

The

symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of hazard. The user must refer to the operating instructions located in the

user documentation in all cases where the symbol is marked on the instrument.

The

symbol on an instrument means warning, risk of electric shock. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal

contact with these voltages.

The

symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to prevent burns.

The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.

If this symbol is on a product, it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please note that the lamp must be properly disposed of according to federal, state, and local laws.
The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains hazards that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading in the user documentation explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the warranty.

The CAUTION heading with the

symbol in the user documentation explains hazards that could result in moderate or minor

injury or damage the instrument. Always read the associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.

Damage to the instrument may invalidate the warranty.

Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.

Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.

To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains circuits — including the power transformer, test leads, and input jacks — must be purchased from Keithley. Standard fuses with applicable national safety approvals may be used if the rating and type are the same. The detachable mains power cord provided with the instrument may only be replaced with a similarly rated power cord. Other components that are not safety- related may be purchased from other suppliers as long as they are equivalent to the original component (note that selected parts should be purchased only through Keithley to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product). If you are unsure about the applicability of a replacement component, call a Keithley office for information.

Unless otherwise noted in product-specific literature, Keithley instruments are designed to operate indoors only, in the following environment: Altitude at or below 2,000 m (6,562 ft); temperature 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F); and pollution degree 1 or 2.

To clean an instrument, use a cloth dampened with deionized water or mild, water-based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply cleaner directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist of a circuit board with no case or chassis (e.g., a data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the board becomes contaminated and operation is affected, the board should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.

Safety precaution revision as of June 2018.

Table of contents
Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1-1
Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1-1
4200A-SCS power supply limitations ……………………………………………………………………….. 1-2
KXCI communications connections …………………………………………………………….. 2-1
KXCI communications connections …………………………………………………………………………. 2-1
GPIB connections …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-2
Ethernet connections …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2-2
Using KCon to configure KXCI………………………………………………………………………………… 2-3 Set up KXCI for GPIB control ………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-3 Set up KXCI for ethernet control ………………………………………………………………………………….. 2-5 Setting up KXCI as a 4145B emulator…………………………………………………………………………… 2-6
GPIB communications……………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-8 GPIB status indicators (GPIB communications only) ………………………………………………………. 2-9
Ethernet communications……………………………………………………………………………………….. 2-9 KXCI ethernet client driver ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2-9 Driver functions ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2-10 Example write and read with ethernet …………………………………………………………………………. 2-10
Error messages …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2-11
Using KXCI ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-1
Using KXCI…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-1
Output data formats for SMUs ………………………………………………………………………………… 3-1 Data format for system mode readings …………………………………………………………………………. 3-1 Data format for user mode readings……………………………………………………………………………… 3-2
Status byte and serial polling ………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-3 Status byte ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-3 Bit B0, Data Ready…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-4 Bit B1, Syntax Error……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3-4 Bit B4, Busy………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3-4 Bit B6, RQS (request for service) …………………………………………………………………………………. 3-4 Serial polling……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-5 Waiting for SRQ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-5
Logging commands, errors, and test results ……………………………………………………………… 3-5 Logging commands ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3-5 Logging errors …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-6 Logging test results ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3-7 Understanding the log file …………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-7 Graphing the test results …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-8
KXCI common commands …………………………………………………………………………… 4-1
Common commands ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-1 DR …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-2 :ERROR:LAST:CLEAR ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-2 :ERROR:LAST:GET …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-3

Table of contents

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

ID ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-3 IDN? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-4 OPT? ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-4 *RST ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4-5 SP …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-6
Calling KULT user libraries remotely ……………………………………………………………………….. 4-6 Summary of commands for remote calls ……………………………………………………………………….. 4-7 AB …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-7 EX …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-7 GD…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-9 GN…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4-9 GP …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-10 UL …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-11 SystemUtil User Library ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-11 instrumentinfo………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4-12 remotemoduleinfo ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-13 systeminfo ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-14
KXCI SMU commands…………………………………………………………………………………. 5-1
KXCI SMU commands …………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-1
Summary of KXCI SMU commands…………………………………………………………………………. 5-2
Summary of page commands …………………………………………………………………………………. 5-4
SMU default settings ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-4
System mode SMU default settings …………………………………………………………………………. 5-5
Command reference ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-6 System mode commands……………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-6 CH …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-7 VM…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-8 VS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-9 DT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-10 FS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-11 HT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-12 RT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-12 SC …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-14 ST …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-14 VC and IC……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-15 VL and IL………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-16 VP and IP ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-17 VR and IR……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-19 DM ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-22 IN ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-22 LI …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-23 NR …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-24 WT ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-24 XN …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-25 XT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-25 YA …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-26 YB …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-26 ME…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-27 GT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-28 SV …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-29 MP…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-30 SR …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-30 User mode commands (US)………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-31 DI ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-31

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Table of contents

DS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-32 DV …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-33 TI …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-34 TV …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-35 Modeless commands ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-36 AC …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-36 BC …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-37 DO…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-37 EC …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-38 EM…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-39 IT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-39 RD …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-40 RG…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-41 RI ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5-42 RS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-42 RV …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5-43
Code examples …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5-43 Example 1: VAR1 and VAR2 sweep (system mode)……………………………………………………… 5-44 Example 2: Basic source- measure (user mode) …………………………………………………………… 5-45 Example 3: Retrieving saved data (system mode) ………………………………………………………… 5-45 Example 4: VAR1 sweep with real-time data retrieval……………………………………………………. 5-46
KXCI CVU commands …………………………………………………………………………………. 6-1
KXCI CVU commands……………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-1
Summary of KXCI CVU commands …………………………………………………………………………. 6-2
User mode commands …………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-3 :CVU:CABLE:COMP:LOAD ………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-4 :CVU:CABLE:COMP:MEASCUSTOM ………………………………………………………………………….. 6-5 :CVU:CABLE:COMP:OPEN ………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-5 :CVU:CABLE:COMP:SHORT………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-6 :CVU:MEASZ? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-6
System mode commands……………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-7 :CVU:BIAS:DCV:SAMPLE ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-7 :CVU:DATA:FREQ? …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-7 :CVU:DATA:STATUS? ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-7 :CVU:DATA:TSTAMP? ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-8 :CVU:DATA:VOLT?……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-8 :CVU:DATA:Z?………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-8 :CVU:DELAY:STEP …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-8 :CVU:DELAY:SWEEP ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-9 :CVU:FSTEPSIZE ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-9 :CVU:SAMPLE:HOLDT …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-10 :CVU:SAMPLE:INTERVAL………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-10 :CVU:SOAK:DCV …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-10 :CVU:STANDBY………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-11 :CVU:STEP:FREQ …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-11 :CVU:SWEEP:ACV ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-12 :CVU:SWEEP:DCV ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-12 :CVU:SWEEP:FREQ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-13 :CVU:SWEEP:LISTDCV …………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-14 :CVU:TEST:ABORT …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-14 :CVU:TEST:RUN……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-14
Modeless commands …………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-15 :CVU:ACV ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-15 :CVU:ACZ:RANGE…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-15 :CVU:CHANNEL ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-16

Table of contents

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

:CVU:CONFIG:ACVHI………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-16 :CVU:CONFIG:DCVHI ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-16 :CVU:CORRECT ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-17 :CVU:DCV ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-18 :CVU:DCV:OFFSET …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-18 :CVU:FREQ…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-19 :CVU:LENGTH ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-19 :CVU:MODE……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-20 :CVU:MODEL………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-20 :CVU:OUTPUT ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-20 :CVU:RESET…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-21 :CVU:SPEED ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6-21 :CVU:TEST:COMPLETE?…………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-24
Code examples …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-24 Example 1 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-24 Example 2 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-26
KXCI PGU and PMU commands…………………………………………………………………… 7-1
Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-2
Summary of KXCI PGU and PMU commands…………………………………………………………… 7-3 :PMU:ABORT……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-4 :PMU:CONNECTION:COMP ………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-5 :PMU:DATA:COUNT? ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-6 :PMU:DATA:GET ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-7 :PMU:EXECUTE ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-9 :PMU:INIT ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-9 :PMU:LLEC:CONFIGURE…………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-10 :PMU:LOAD ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-11 :PMU:MEASURE:CONNECTION:COMP…………………………………………………………………….. 7-12 :PMU:MEASURE:MODE…………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-13 :PMU:MEASURE:PIV……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-14 :PMU:MEASURE:RANGE…………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-15 :PMU:OUTPUT:STATE …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-16 :PMU:PULSE:BURST:COUNT…………………………………………………………………………………… 7-17 :PMU:PULSE:TIMES ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-18 :PMU:PULSE:TRAIN………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-21 :PMU:RETAIN:CONFIG ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-21 :PMU:RPM:CONFIGURE………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-22 :PMU:SAMPLE:RATE ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-23 :PMU:SOURCE:RANGE …………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-24 :PMU:STEP:DC……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-25 :PMU:STEP:PULSE:AMPLITUDE………………………………………………………………………………. 7-26 :PMU:STEP:PULSE:BASE………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-27 :PMU:SWEEP:DC ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-28 :PMU:SWEEP:PULSE:AMPLITUDE …………………………………………………………………………… 7-29 :PMU:SWEEP:PULSE:BASE …………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-31 :PMU:TEST:STATUS? ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-32 :PMU:TIMES:PIV …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-32 :PMU:TIMES:WAVEFORM ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-34
Programming examples ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-35 Example: Use KXCI to generate a pulse I-V drain family of curves………………………………….. 7-35 Example: Using KXCI to generate a pulse train ……………………………………………………………. 7-37
Summary of Segment Arb commands ……………………………………………………………………. 7-38 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:START ……………………………………………………………………………….. 7-40 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:START:ADD ……………………………………………………………………….. 7-41 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:STOP …………………………………………………………………………………. 7-42 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:STOP:ADD …………………………………………………………………………. 7-43

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Table of contents

:PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:TYPE …………………………………………………………………………………. 7-44 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:MEAS:TYPE:ADD ………………………………………………………………………….. 7-45 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:SSR …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-46 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:SSR:ADD ……………………………………………………………………………………… 7-47 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:STARTV……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-48 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:STARTV:ADD ……………………………………………………………………………….. 7-49 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:STOPV…………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-50 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:STOPV:ADD …………………………………………………………………………………. 7-51 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:TIME ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-52 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:TIME:ADD…………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-53 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:TRIG ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-54 :PMU:SARB:SEQ:TRIG:ADD…………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-55 :PMU:SARB:WFM:SEQ:LIST…………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-56 :PMU:SARB:WFM:SEQ:LIST:ADD …………………………………………………………………………….. 7-57
Programming example for Segment Arb…………………………………………………………………. 7-57
KXCI pulse commands for Clarius versions v1.12 and earlier……………………………………. 7-59 Summary of KXCI PGU commands ……………………………………………………………………………. 7-59 PA …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-60 PD …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-60 PE …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-61 PG …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-61 PH …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-62 PN …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-63 PO …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-64 PS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-64 PT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-65 PV …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-66 RP …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-67 TO …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-68 TS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-69 VF …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-70

Section 1
Introduction
In this section:
Introduction …………………………………………………………………… 1-1 4200A-SCS power supply limitations ………………………………… 1-2
Introduction
With Keithley External Control Interface (KXCI), you can use a remote computer to control the source-measure units (SMUs), capacitance-voltage units (CVUs), pulse generator units (PGUs, and pulse generator units (PMU) in the 4200A-SCS directly. For the SMUs, the KXCI command set includes an HP 4145 compatibility mode, allowing many programs already developed for the HP4145 to be used on the 4200A-SCS instead. This document contains:
· KXCI communications connections: Describes the hardware and software set up for GPIB and
ethernet communications.
· KXCI user interface: Describes how to use the KXCI user interface, which is used to control
GPIB operation.
· KXCI common commands: Descriptions of common commands, such as ID commands, reading
commands, and reset commands.
· KXCI SMU commands: Descriptions of the commands used to set up and control SMUs in user
mode and system mode.
· KXCI CVU commands: Descriptions of the commands used to control the CVU using KXCI in
both user mode and system mode.
· KXCI PGU and PMU commands: Descriptions of the modeless commands used to control PGUs
and PMUs. For information on using Python 3 to control the 4200A-SCS, refer to Application Note Controlling the Keithley 4200A-SCS Parameter Analyzer Using the External Control Interface (KXCI) and Python 3 (1KW-74006-0).

Section 1: Introduction

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

4200A-SCS power supply limitations
In some system configurations, the 4200A-SCS power supply cannot supply enough current if a test has too many high-power instruments enabled. Some system configurations may have enough instruments installed to exceed the power supply limit if the selected test has too many channels enabled.
Clarius tracks the instruments used in a test and calculates the maximum power required and compares it to the maximum available power. If the test requires too much power, a message is displayed and the test will not run.
The following table and the equations below it show how the power is calculated. The maximum power available for each instrument in the test module is used in the calculation. The 4210-SMU High Power SMU, 4211-SMU High Power SMU, 4225-PMU Ultra-Fast Pulse Measure Unit, and 4220-PGU High Voltage Pulse Generator draw the majority of the power in the 4200A-SCS chassis.
There are two parts to the total power supply draw. The first part is the power required for the instruments while the 4200A-SCS is idle (on, but not testing). The second part is the power required by the instruments taking part in the test. Note that medium power SMUs (4200-SMUs and 4201-SMUs), 4200 preamplifiers (4200-PAs), and 4210-CVU and 4215-CVU modules are not included in the equations, as their power draw is not significant.

4200A-SCS power requirements

Instrument

Idle power (watts)

High Power SMU (4210-SMU or 4211-SMU) Not significant

4225-PGU

29.4

4225-PMU

50.4

4225-RPM

4.2

10 V PGU or PMU channel*

Not available

40 V PGU or PMU channel*

Not available

Medium Power SMU (4200-SMU or 4201-SMU) Not significant

4210-CVU or 4215-CVU

Not significant

• There are two channels for each PGU and PMU instrument card.

Test power (watts)
45 Not available Not available Not available 8.4 54.6 Not significant Not significant

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Section 1: Introduction

Equations to calculate power:
PowerIDLE = [(29.4 × nPGU) + (50.4 × nPMU) + (4.2 × nRPM)] PowerTEST = [(45 × nHPSMU) + (8.4 × nC10) + (54.6 x nC40)] PowerTOTAL = PowerIDLE + PowerTEST PowerTOTAL = 500 W maximum. If PowerTOTAL is less than or equal to 500 W, the test proceeds.
Where:
· nPGU = number of 4220-PGU cards in the 4200A-SCS chassis (idle power draw) · nPMU = number of 4225-PMU cards in the 4200A-SCS chassis (idle power draw) · nRPM = number of 4225-RPM modules connected to PMUs (idle power draw) · nHPSMU = number of High-Power SMUs (4210-SMUs or 4211-SMUs) in the test · nC10 = number of 10 V PGU or PMU channels in the test · nC40 = number of 40 V PGU or PMU channels in the test
Example 1: 4200A-SCS with two 4210-SMUs or 4211-SMUs, four 4225-PMUs, and eight 4225-RPMs. The test uses all eight PMU+RPM channels set to the 10 V range (no SMUs in test).
PowerIDLE = [(29.4 × nPGU) + (50.4 × nPMU) + (4.2 × nRPM)] = [(29.4 × 0) + (50.4 × 4) + (4.2 × 8)] = 201.6 + 33.6 = 235.2 PowerTEST = [(45 × nHPSMU) + (8.4 × nC10) + (54.6 × nC40)] = [(45 × 0) + (8.4 × 8) + (54.6 × 0)] = 67.2 PowerTOTAL = PowerIDLE + PowerTEST = 235.2 + 67.2 = 302.4 This test has PowerTOTAL 500 W, so this test will proceed.
Example 2: 4200A-SCS with two 4210-SMUs or 4211-SMUs, four 4225-PMUs, and eight 4225-RPMs. The test uses five PMU+RPM channels set to the 40 V range (no SMUs in test).
PowerIDLE = [(29.4 × nPGU) + (50.4 × nPMU) + (4.2 × nRPM)] = [(29.4 × 0) + (50.4 × 4) + (4.2 × 8)] = 201.6 + 33.6 = 235.2 PowerTEST = [(45 × nHPSMU) + (8.4 × nC10) + (54.6 × nC40)] = [(45 × 0) + (8.4 × 0) + (54.6 × 5)] = 273 PowerTOTAL = PowerIDLE + PowerTEST = 235.2 + 273 = 508.2 This test has PowerTOTAL >500 W, so this test will not proceed. Reduce the number of PMU+RPM channels that are set to the 40 V range to less than five.

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

The following table shows the 4200A-SCS power requirements for valid combinations for the 4225-PMU, 4225-RPM, and high-power SMU.

4200A-SCS power requirements for valid combinations of internal system instruments

Idle power (watts)

Power used in test (watts)

nPMU
2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6

nRPM
4 4 4 4 6 6 6 6 6 8 8 8 8 8 10 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 12 12

nC10
0 0 0 4 6 6 6 0 0 8 8 8 0 0 10 10 10 0 0 0 12 12 0 0

nC40
4 4 4 0 0 0 0 5 5 0 0 0 4 4 0 0 0 3 2 2 0 0 2 1

nHPSMU
0 1 2 2 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 1 0 1

PowerIDLE
117.6 117.6 117.6 117.6 176.4 176.4 176.4 176.4 176.4 235.2 235.2 235.2 235.2 235.2 294 294 294 294 294 294 352.8 352.8 352.8 352.8

PowerTEST
218.4 263.4 308.4 123.6 50.4 95.4 140.4 273 318 67.2 112.2 157.2 218.4 263.4 84 129 174 163.8 154.2 199.2 218.4 263.4 308.4 123.6

PowerTOTAL
336 381 426 241.2 226.8 271.8 316.8 449.4 494.4 302.4 347.4 392.4 453.6 498.6 378 423 468 457.8 448.2 493.2 336 381 426 241.2

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Section 2
KXCI communications connections
In this section:
KXCI communications connections …………………………………… 2-1 GPIB connections ………………………………………………………….. 2-2 Ethernet connections ……………………………………………………… 2-2 Using KCon to configure KXCI …………………………………………. 2-3 GPIB communications…………………………………………………….. 2-8 Ethernet communications………………………………………………… 2-9 Error messages ……………………………………………………………. 2-11
KXCI communications connections
You can communicate with the 4200A-SCS using GPIB or ethernet connections. The connections for each are described in the following topics. The locations of the connections are shown in the following figure.
Figure 1: GPIB and ethernet connectors on the 4200A-SCS

Section 2: KXCI communications connections

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

GPIB connections
The GPIB cable is the IEEE-488 instrumentation data bus with hardware and programming standards originally adopted by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) in 1975. The 4200A-SCS conforms to these standards:
· IEEE-488.1-1987 · IEEE-488.2-1992
To connect the 4200A-SCS, use a GPIB cable equipped with standard GPIB connectors, as shown in the following figure. Either end of this cable mates to the GPIB connector on the rear panel of the 4200A-SCS. Connect the other end of the cable to the GPIB connector on the computer. The connectors on the cable are stackable to allow GPIB connection to other instruments. However, to avoid damage, do not stack more than three connectors on any one unit.
To minimize interference caused by electromagnetic radiation, use shielded GPIB cables.
Figure 2: Standard IEEE-488 connectors

Ethernet connections
Use a standard cable (CAT-5, RJ-45 terminated) to connect to the 4200A-SCS, as shown in the figure in Communications connections (on page 2-1).
The ethernet cable must be connected to the network, not directly to a computer.

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Section 2: KXCI communications connections

Using KCon to configure KXCI
You use the Keithley Configuration Utility (KCon) to configure KXCI communications. If you need to set up the 4200A-SCS as a subordinate on a GPIB or ethernet system, you do the initial setup through the KCon KXCI Settings. This allows you to use an external computer to remotely control the 4200A-SCS over GPIB or ethernet. You can also use KXCI to set up emulation for Keysight 4145B Semiconductor Parameter Analyzers. In many cases, test programs developed for use with a Keysight 4145B run without modification when they are used with a 4200A-SCS running KXCI. For more information on KCon, refer to “Keithley Configuration Utility (KCon)” in Model 4200A-SCS Setup and Maintenance.
Before opening KCon to change the present KXCI configuration, you must close KXCI.
The presently selected communications interface (GPIB or ethernet) and its settings are displayed in the KXCI console. By default, the 4200A-SCS is set up for GPIB remote control. The command and message area below the KXCI settings displays sent commands, KXCI error messages, and numerical test results (refer to Using KXCI (on page 3-1)).
Set up KXCI for GPIB control
To set up GPIB control: 1. Open KCon. 2. Select KXCI Settings. The KXCI Settings dialog is displayed, as shown in the following figure.

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Section 2: KXCI communications connections

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Figure 3: KXCI Settings dialog

3. Set Communications to GPIB.
4. Set the GPIB Address. This is the primary address of the 4200A-SCS when operating under KXCI control. If the selected GPIB address conflicts with the GPIB address of another system component, a red exclamation-point symbol (!) is displayed next to the selected address.
5. Set the Reading Delimiter to determine the output data delimiter characters that are added to the end of each KXCI output message:
Select String Terminator to use a character. Select Comma to terminate output data with a comma (,).
6. If you selected String Terminator, select the type of Character:
None to use no character. CR to use a carriage return. LF to use a line feed. CR/LF to use a carriage return and line feed character sequence.
7. If String Terminator is selected, select EOI ON or EOI OFF. The EOI setting determines if the 4200A-SCS asserts the GPIB End Or Identify (EOI) signal with the last byte of each output data message.
8. Select OK.

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Section 2: KXCI communications connections

When KXCI starts, the status messages look similar to the following figure when GPIB is set up. Figure 4: KXCI status when GPIB selected

Set up KXCI for ethernet control
To set up ethernet control: 1. Open KCon. 2. Select KXCI Settings. The KXCI Settings dialog is displayed. 3. Set Communications to Ethernet. 4. Set the Port Number (the default is 1225, which is acceptable for most installations). Make note
of the port number for use in the code. 5. Select a Reading Delimiter. The delimiter determines if the delimiter for output data is a string
terminator or a comma. 6. If you selected String Terminator, select the Character. The options are:
None to use no character. Recommended to avoid extra termination characters. The 4200A-SCS automatically adds a null character as a terminator.
CR to use a carriage return. LF to use a line feed. CR/LF to use a carriage return and line feed character sequence.
7. Select OK.

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Section 2: KXCI communications connections

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

When KXCI starts, the status messages look similar to the following figure when ethernet is set up. Figure 5: KXCI status when ethernet is selected

Setting up KXCI as a 4145B emulator
Although the KXCI command set is similar to the Keysight 4145B command set, the 4200A-SCS and Keysight 4145B hardware are different. To use existing 4145B code with the 4200A-SCS, you need to set up the 4200A-SCS SMUs to map to the 4145B instrument numbers. In many cases, test programs developed for use with a Keysight 4145B run without modification when they are used with a 4200A-SCS running KXCI. When a mode is selected, KXCI always starts in that mode.
The following table summarizes some differences and similarities between the modes.

Mode comparison

Mode

Characteristic String reported in response to ID query
GPIB data resolution Maximum number of sweep points Possible instrument configurations
Configuration query Instrument self test Custom A/D control 200 V, 1 A capability 1.0 pA source/measure-range capability (with preamplifier on SMU)

4200A (Normal)

4145 Emulation

KI4200A Vx.x.x (where ID HP4145B 1.1,1.0 x.x.x is the version number)

7 digits

5 digits

4096

1024

8 source-measure units (SMU), voltmeters (VM), or voltage-sources (VS)

*OPT? command

Not supported

SMUs only

Not supported

IT4 command options

Not supported

Supported

Supported

The main difference between the two instruments is that the 4200A-SCS hardware is modular and the Keysight 4145B hardware is fixed, as shown in the following table.

Hardware comparisons Instrument type Source measure units (SMUs) Voltage meter (VM)
Voltage source (VS)

Keithley Instruments 4200A-SCS
2 to 9 You can configure up to nine SMUs to function as voltage meters. You can configure up to nine SMUs to function as voltage sources.

Keysight 4145B 4 (fixed) 2 (fixed)
2 (fixed)

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KCon manages these hardware differences by allowing you to assign source- measure unit (SMU), voltage meter, or voltage source functions to any 4200A- SCS SMU, as shown in the following table.

KXCI SMU function assignment Function selection SMU
VM1…VM8 (voltage meter)
VS1…VS8 (voltage source)

Description
Instructs the 4200-SMU, 4201-SMU, 4210-SMU, or 4211-SMU to emulate a Keysight 4145B Source Measure Unit.
Instructs the 4200-SMU, 4201-SMU, 4210-SMU, or 4211-SMU to emulate a Keysight 4145B VM1 or VM2 and additional voltage meters (VMs). You can map up to eight VMs to SMUs. You can assign a VM any number from 1 to 8, regardless of the number of SMUs in the system. Each VM number must be unique.
Instructs the 4200-SMU, 4201-SMU, 4210-SMU, or 4211-SMU to emulate the capabilities of a Keysight 4145B VS1 or VS2 and additional voltage sources (VSs). You can map up to eight VSs to SMUs. You can assign a VS any number from 1 to 8, regardless of the number of SMUs in the system. Each VS number must be unique.

To set up 4145B emulation: 1. Open KCon. 2. Select KXCI Settings. The KXCI Settings dialog is displayed, as shown in the following figure. 3. In the Function column, select the 4145 function that the SMU will emulate. 4. In the Number column, select the number that is used for the device in your 4145B program.

Figure 6: KXCI Settings for 4145B emulation

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

GPIB communications
You cannot run Clarius and KXCI at the same time. When Clarius is running, the 4200A-SCS is the controller and controls all internal and external instruments. When KXCI is running, the 4200A-SCS is a subordinate to a controlling computer. To start KXCI: 1. Close Clarius. 2. Select the KXCI icon on the desktop. The KXCI user interface opens.
The GPIB Status indicators only apply if communications are set to GPIB. Figure 7: KXCI user interface

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GPIB status indicators (GPIB communications only)
After KXCI is started, indicators in the GPIB Status box report interface status. A green indicator signals the present status:
· SRQ: Turns on when an error or operating condition occurs. · LTN: When on, instrument is in the listener active state. · TLK: When on, instrument is in the talker active state. · RMT: When on, instrument is in the remote state.

If KXCI is running as a subordinate in a GPIB system, you may see the warning, “Access to all GPIB instruments from the 4200 as controller are illegal.” This error occurs if you try to control other devices through user library modules. A subordinate node cannot control devices in the system.
Ethernet communications
The 4200A-SCS is not LXI compliant, so be aware of the following communications considerations when using ethernet communications:
· Commands must always be terminated with null. If not, KXCI will not read and echo them. · Ethernet commands always return a response. Commands that do not normally return a response
respond with an acknowledge message and a null terminator (ACK).
· Commands that normally return a string or numerical data return that data terminated with the
character that was set in KCon and a null terminator.
If you do not receive data as expected, there may have been an error with the command. Check the KXCI console for error messages. The command may have been sent too soon or had a syntax error. Another potential problem is that there are responses waiting in the buffer that must be cleared before the data can be returned.
KXCI ethernet client driver
A KXCI client driver (32-bit or 64-bit) controls KXCI through the ethernet. You can copy this driver to your controlling computer. The DLL is stand-alone. It does not depend on any other DLLs, so it can be easily moved or copied.
The driver DLLs are named KXCIclient.dll (32-bit) and KXCIclient64.dll (64-bit) and are at the command path: C:s4200sysbin
The KXCIclient.lib (32-bit) and KXCIclient64.lib (64-bit) files are at the command path: C:s4200syslib
For convenience, a C-language header file (KXCIclient.h) is included with the above paths. It is at the command path: C:s4200sysinclude

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Driver functions
The KXCIclient.dll driver has the following functions:
· int OpenKXCIConnection_C(char IPAddrStr, int PortNum, int err); · IPAddrStr: IP address in string format nnn.nn.nn.nn (for example, 198.00.02.00) · PortNum: IP Port assigned in the KXCI tab of KCon · err: Socket error code returned by WSAGetLastError()
int SendKXCICommand_C(char cmdstr, char ReturnString, int err);
· cmdstr: KXCI command string, for example, “DE;CH1;CH2” · ReturnString: Data returned by command, if any. If input command results in data to be
returned, it is placed here
· err: Socket error code returned by WSAGetLastError()
int GetKXCISpollByte_C(unsigned short spbyte, int *err);
· spbyte: KXCI serial poll byte (same as GPIB byte) · err: Socket error code returned by WSAGetLastError()
void CloseKXCIConnection_C(void);

Example write and read with ethernet
The following commands and their responses were made with communications set to comma-separated data with the character set to carriage return (CR). These settings are made in KCon in the KXCI Settings option.

Written command *IDN? CH1, ‘VS’, ‘IS’, 1, 3 ME DO ‘ID’

Response KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS,KI4200A,1442736,V1.8.1r ACK ACK N 4.3555E-15,N 54.978E-15,…N 449.83E-15r

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Section 2: KXCI communications connections

Error messages
KXCI error messages and numbers are shown in the following table.

KXCI error messages

Error number
-999 -998 -997 -996 -995 -994 -993 -992 -991 -990 -989 -988 -987 -986 -985 -984 -980 -979 -978 -975 -974 -973 -972 -971 -970 -969 -968 -967 -966 -965 -964
-963 -962 -961 -960 -959 -958 -957 -956

Error message
IEEE32.DLL GPIB driver is not loaded. Unable to initialize shared memory. Could not establish communications with console. GPIB address not sent as argv[1]. GPIB address not in 0<= addr <= 31. Could not find configuration file. KXCI argument error. KXCI command error. Illegal setup error. Trigger Master card not found. Command not valid on this page. Instrument not mapped. Skipping instrument. Unsupported command received. Unsupported file format error. Could not open specified file. Command not valid during test execution. SMU not present in system. VPU not present in system. Command not valid in User Mode Command not valid in System Mode Command not valid when CVU test is running. Could not write log file. Custom cable compensation failed. HPOT/HCUR magnitude too small. Custom cable compensation failed. LPOT/LCUR magnitude too small. Invalid PMU argument. Pulse Instrument has reached thermal limit. Invalid pulse parameter configuration. Execution Aborted. Command not valid in the present pulse mode. Maximum Source Voltage Reached: Requested voltage across DUT resistance exceeds max voltage available. Maximum number of samples per channel exceeded. Invalid segment Unknown sequence Max sequences Start and stop values for defined segmented arb violate minimum slew rate. At least 3 segments must be defined per sequence Sequence time is too short for a measurement Segment start value does not match previous segment stop value

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

KXCI error messages

Error number -955
-954 -953 -952 -951 -950 -949 -948
-947

Error message
SSR cannot be opened when using RPM ranges. Change SSR configuration to close relay or select PMU measure range. Maximum number of segments per PMU channel exceeded PMU Stepper cannot be used without Sweeper. Cannot adjust PMU measure sample rate for pulse configuration. Cannot adjust PMU measure sample rate for SARB configuration. This test has exceeded the system power limit. Maximum number of measure points exceeded for Pulse IV configuration. Sweep step count mismatch for the sweeping channels. All sweeping channels must have same # of steps. At least one Acquire High or Acquire Low parameter must be set to Enable for Pulse IV measurements.

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Section 3
Using KXCI
In this section:
Using KXCI……………………………………………………………………. 3-1 Output data formats for SMUs………………………………………….. 3-1 Status byte and serial polling …………………………………………… 3-3 Logging commands, errors, and test results ………………………. 3-5
Using KXCI
To start using KXCI: 1. Close Clarius and KCon. 2. Double-click the KXCI icon on the desktop. The 4200A-SCS is ready to accept commands immediately after you start KXCI. For command information, refer to KXCI SMU commands (on page 5-1), KXCI CVU commands (on page 6-1), and KXCI pulse generator commands (on page 7-1).
To stop using KXCI: Select Exit. This stops operation and closes KXCI.
Output data formats for SMUs
The following topics describe the data formats for system mode and user mode readings. The hierarchy for data status is C, N:
· C: This channel is in compliance · N: Normal
Data format for system mode readings
For system mode operation, use the DO command to get one or more triggered readings. After sending the DO command string and addressing the 4200A-SCS to talk, the output data string is sent to the computer in the following format: X±N.NNNNE±NN,X±N.NNNNE±NN,…X±N.NNNNE±NN Where X is the data status and N is the reading.

Section 3: Using KXCI

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Scientific notation for the reading exponent: E+00 = 0 E-03 = 10-3 (m) E-06 = 10-6 () E-09 = 10-9 (n) E-12 = 10-12 (p)

Data format for user mode readings

For user mode operation, use the TI or TV command string to trigger and make a reading. After sending the TI or TV command string and addressing the 4200A- SCS to talk, the output data string is sent to the computer in the following format:
XYZ ±N.NNNN E±NN
Where X is the data status, Y is the instrument, Z is the measure mode, and N is the measurement. Y and Z are defined in the following tables.

Voltage measure mode specified (Z = V; see following tables).

Y =

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

SMU1 SMU2 SMU3 SMU4 VM1 VM2 SMU5 SMU6 SMU7 SMU8 VM3 VM4 VM5 VM6 VM7 VM8

Current measure mode specified (Z = I; see below)

Y =

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

SMU1 SMU2 SMU3 SMU4 SMU5 SMU6 SMU7 SMU8

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Measure mode

Z =

V

I

Voltage Current

Reading (mantissa and exponent)

±N.NNNN E±NN

Section 3: Using KXCI

Scientific notation for the reading exponent: E+00 = 0 E-03 = 10-3 (m) E-06 = 10-6 () E-09 = 10-9 (n) E-12 = 10-12 (p)

Status byte and serial polling
The status byte is an 8-bit register that provides status information on instrument operation. When a particular operating condition occurs, one or more bits of the status byte sets.
You can use serial polling to read the status byte.
The following sections describe the status byte and serial polling.

Status byte
The status byte is an 8-bit register that provides status information on instrument operation. When an operating condition occurs, one or more bits of the status byte are set. The status byte register is shown in the following table.

Status byte register

Bit

B7

B6

B5

B4

B3

B2

B1

B0

Condition Binary value

—

RQS

—

Busy

—

—

Syntax Data

error

ready

—

0/1

—

0/1

—

—

0/1

0/1

Decimal weight

—

64

—

16

—

—

2

1

The bits of the status byte register that are used are described in the following topics.

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Bit B0, Data Ready
This bit sets (1) when all measurements are completed and data is ready to be output on the GPIB. Any of the following actions clear (0) bit B0:
· Clears (0) when the data transfer starts. · Clears (0) when the BC (buffer clear) command is sent to the 4200A-SCS. · Clears (0) when the 4200A-SCS is serial polled.
Bit B1, Syntax Error
This bit sets (1) when an invalid command string is sent to the 4200A-SCS. Any of the following actions clear (0) bit B1:
· When the 4200A-SCS is serial polled. · When a device clear command (DCL or SDC) is sent to the 4200A-SCS.
Bit B4, Busy
This bit is set (1) while a measurement is being performed. It will clear (0) when the measurement is completed.
Bit B6, RQS (request for service)
This bit sets (1) whenever bit B1 (syntax error) sets. If service request for data ready is enabled (DR1 asserted), bit B6 will set whenever bit B0 (data ready) sets. If service request for data ready is disabled (DR0 asserted), bit B6 will not be affected by bit B0.
Bit B6 remains set until one of the following actions occur:
· Clears (0) when the 4200A-SCS is serial polled. · Clears (0) when a device clear command (DCL or SDC) is sent to the 4200A-SCS.

When bit B6 sets, the SRQ (service request) indicator on the KXCI user interface turns on. It turns off when B6 is cleared.

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Section 3: Using KXCI

Serial polling
The serial poll enable (SPE) and serial poll disable (SPD) general bus command sequence is used to serial poll the 4200A-SCS. Serial polling reads the status byte. Generally, the controller uses the serial polling sequence to determine which of several instruments has requested service with the SRQ line. However, the status byte of the 4200A-SCS may be read to determine when an operating condition has occurred.
If you try to get data before all the measurements in a test are completed, an error occurs. To prevent this, you can use serial polling in a program fragment to monitor the data ready bit (B0) of the status byte. When B0 sets, which indicates that data is ready, the program obtains the measurement data.
After the source-measure testing process is triggered to start (ME1 is sent to start a sweep), the following C-language programming statement serial polls the instrument:
spoll(addr, &poll, &status);
Waiting for SRQ
Instead of serial polling the 4200A-SCS to detect an SRQ, you can monitor the service request line. When an SRQ occurs, the SRQ line is asserted.
If you are using GPIB connections, you can use the following C-language programming routine stop program execution until an SRQ occurs.
send(addr, “DR1”, &status); while(!srq()); The first statement enables service request for data ready. The second command holds up program execution until the SRQ (data ready) occurs.
For ethernet connections, you can use the SP command to monitor the service request line.
Logging commands, errors, and test results
When you send commands, KXCI logs the commands, error messages, and test results as described in the following topics.
Logging commands
When you send a command, the left side of the user interface (the command and message display area) displays each command as it is received, as shown in the following figure.

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming Figure 8: KXCI command and message display area

To remove existing messages, select Clear Messages. You can use Console Size to set the number of messages that are displayed. You can select 1, 100, or 1000 lines. If Log Console Messages is selected, KXCI also logs each command into the KXCI log file (C:s4200sysKXCIKXCILogfile.txt). If Timestamps is selected, KXCI logs a timestamp for each message.
Logging errors
The command and message display area displays error messages as they occur.

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Section 3: Using KXCI

Logging test results
The command and message display area also displays the numerical test results for both the 4200A and 4145 Emulation commands sets (refer to “Command Set” in Model 4200A-SCS Setup and Maintenance (4200A-908-01)).
You can turn off the graph display to better display a long sequence of test results. Select Hide Graph in the upper right to hide the graph.

The test results are 0.0000 if the interlock is disconnected.
If the sent commands include the graphics commands, the graph display area graphs the test data. Refer to Graphing the test results (on page 3-8).
Understanding the log file
If Log Console Messages is selected, KXCI logs all commands to a file named KXCILogfile.txt. You can open the text file after KXCI is closed. Note that whenever you open KXCI, the log file clears. The log file is in the directory: C:s4200sysKXCI You can use any text editor to open the file. SMUs may return a line such as: DATA:NAI 22.329E-09 The characters after DATA: represent:
· The operating condition: N for normal or C if the SMU is in compliance. · The instrument number, converted to a letter: A for SMU1, B for SMU2 and so on to letter I. · The measurement function: V for voltage or I for current.

4200A-KXCI-907-01 Rev. D May 2024

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Section 3: Using KXCI

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Graphing the test results
If you have sent the graphics commands (the DM1 command followed by the X-axis and Y-axis configuration commands), KXCI displays a graph of the generated data. See the example graph and graphics commands in the following figure.
Figure 9: KXCI data graph

KXCI plots all Y1 axis curves in red and all Y2 axis curves in blue. To hide the graph, select Hide Graph.

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4200A-KXCI-907-01 Rev. D May 2024

Section 4 KXCI common commands

In this section:
Common commands ………………………………………………………. 4-1 Calling KULT user libraries remotely …………………………………. 4-6

Common commands
The command strings described in this section are valid for all instruments and for all operating modes unless otherwise noted. They are used for the operations listed in the following table.

Command

Brief description

DR (on page 4-2)

Enables or disables service request for data ready when communications is set to GPIB.

:ERROR:LAST:CLEAR (on page Clears the last error generated by a KXCI command. 4-2)

:ERROR:LAST:GET (on page 4-3) Retrieves error messages from KXCI for any instrument.

ID (on page 4-3)

Places the instrument ID of the 4200A-SCS in a buffer.

*IDN? (on page 4-4)

Generates an identification query and reads identification information.

*OPT? (on page 4-4)

Returns a result string that contains the 4200A-SCS slot configuration for KXCI.

*RST (on page 4-5)

Resets the instrument settings to default settings.

SP (on page 4-6)

Allows you to acquire the GPIB serial poll byte when ethernet communications are selected.

Section 4: KXCI common commands

Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

DR

This command enables or disables service request for data ready when communications is set to GPIB.

Usage DRA A
Details

Set service request for data ready:
Disable service request for data ready: 0 Enable service request for data ready: 1

Available for all instruments.

This command is not available for ethernet communications. Use SP for ethernet communications.

Use a service request to wait until operations are complete before downloading data.

GPIB provides a status byte register to monitor instrument operation. Two bits of this register are bit B0 (Data Ready) and bit B6 (RQS). After all programmed measurements are completed, the data becomes ready for output and bit B0 (Data Ready) sets.

If the service request for data ready is enabled, bit B6 (RQS) is also set when data is ready for output. If the service request for data ready is disabled, bit B6 is not set when data is ready.

Also see

SP (on page 4-6)

:ERROR:LAST:CLEAR

This command clears the last error generated by a KXCI command.

Usage Details

:ERROR:LAST:CLEAR

Call this command at the beginning or end of the test to clear the KXCI error queue.

Example

:ERROR:LAST:CLEAR Errors are removed from the buffer and :ERROR:LAST:GET will no longer return errors.

Also see

Error messages (on page 2-11) :ERROR:LAST:GET (on page 4-3)

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Model 4200A-SCS KXCI Remote Control Programming

Section 4: KXCI common commands

:ERROR:LAST:GET

This command retrieves error messages from KXCI for any instrument.

Usage Details

:ERROR:LAST:GET
This command returns the last stored error in KXCI in the format: