Agilent 3488A User’s Manual

User’s Manual

3488 Mode Supplement

This manual describes the Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System when used in the 3488 mode of ope rat ion. T hi s manual is a supplement to the Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System User’s Manual (shipped with the instr ument). Adobe Ac robat (PD F) vers ions of the user’s manual are available at www.agilent.com.

Agilent 349 9A/B/C Switch/Control System

Agilent 3499A/B/C at a Glance

The Agilent Technologies 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System provides a convenient mechanical and programming environment for a v ariety of plug-in modules. With appropriate plug-in modules, the Switch/Control System pr ov id e s high density/high speed switching and digi tal I/O capability.

Switch/Control System Features

•

Intuitive and easy-to-use user interface

•

GPIB (IEEE 488) or RS-232 interface control

•

External triggering capability

•

Built-in 4-bit digital I/O port

•

Store and recall up to 50 customized instrument setups

•

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) compatibilit y

•

Relay cycle count informa tion for preventive maintenance

•

Downloadable fir m war e upgrades

Agilent 3499A Features

•

Five plug -in slots

•

Full rack width

Agilent 3499B Features

•

Two plug -i n slots

•

Half rack width

Agilent 3499C Features

•

Nine plug-in slots

•

Full rack width

Note: Unless otherwise indicated, this manual applies to all Serial Numbers.

Plug-in Mo du les at a Glance

The Agilent 3499A/B/C mainframes support a variety of plug-in modules to make test sys te m configuration easy.

Multip lexer Modules

N2260A 40-Channel MUX Module (armature relays) N2266A 40-Channel MUX Module (reed relays) N2270A 10-Channel High Voltage MUX Module 44470A 10-Channel MUX Module 44470D 20-Channel MUX Module

General Purpose Relay Modules

N2261A 40-Channel GP Relay Module N2267A 8-Channel High Current GP Module 44471A 10-Channel GP Relay Module 44471D 20-Channel GP Relay Module 44477A 7-Channel Form-C Relay Module

Matrix Modules

N2262A 4 x 8 Matrix Module 44473A 4 x 4 Matrix Module

High Frequency Switching Modules

N2268A 50Ω 3.5GHz Dual 4-to-1 MUX Module N2272A 1 GHz RF 1-to-9 MUX Module N2276A/B Dual 1-to-6 (4) Microwave MUX/Attenuator Module 44472A Dual 4-Channel VHF Switch Module 44478A/B 50Ω/75Ω 1.3 GHz Multiplexer 44476A 3-Channel 18 GHz Switch Module 44476B 2-Channel Microwave Switch Module

Optic al Switch Modules

N2280A Optical Switch Quad 1-to-2 MUX Module N2281A Optical Switch Dual 1-to-4 MUX Module N2282A Optical Switch 1-to-8 MUX Module

Digita l I/ O M odules

N2263A 32 -Bit Digital I/O Module 44474A 16-Bit Digital I/O Module

Multifunc tion/Special Purpose Modules

N2264A 12-Channel GP & 3-Channel High-current GP & 16-Bit Digital I/O N2265A 4 x 4 Matrix & 16-Bit Digital I/O Module 44475A Breadboard Module

These modules are NOT supported in the 3488 Mode of operation.

The Front Pane l at a G lance

1. Power On/Standby 8. Scan Keys (see page 78)

2. Reset Module/Instrument 9. Main Menu

3. Shift/Local 10. Open/Close Relay Channels

4. Store/Recall Instrument State 11. Enter a Value/Confirm Selection

5. Monitor Channel/Port/Module 12. Read/Write Digital I/O Ports

6. View Menu 13. Knob

7. Mode Menu 14. Navigation Arrow Keys

Note

The front panel shown above is the Agilent 3499B. The 3499A and 3499C front panels are similar and have identical functionality.

Annunciators

The Display at a Glance

Channel/Slot Number

The display is divided into several areas. The channel and slot number is always displayed on the right corner of the display. The main area, which is in the center of the display, is primarily used to display channel status (open or closed), information messages, menu items, prompt information, error messages, and so on. Around the display are annunciators to indicate var ious sta te s of the inst ru m ent o pe rati o n. The a n nunciators are summarized below.

Annunciator Indication

SCAN Scan is initiated. MON Instrument is in monitor mode. VIEW Scan list, errors or relay cycle counts are being viewed. CONFIG Any configuration key has been pressed. * Instrument is advancing a scan step. ADRS Instrument is active on the remote interface. RMT Instrument is in remote mode. ERROR Error queue is not empty. EXT Scan is waiting for external trigger source. SHIFT Shift key has been pressed.

Other annunciators in the display are not used in the Agilent 3499A/B/C system.

The Rear Panel at a Glance

The figure be low sh o ws the A gilent 3499A rear panel.

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

Slot 0 Control Modul e

The figure be low sh o ws the A gilent 3499B rear panel.

Slot 4

Slot 5

GPIB Connector RS-232 Connector

Mini DIN Connector

Power Input

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 0 Control Module

GPIB Connector RS-232 Connector

Power Input

Mini DIN Connector

The figure be low sh o ws the A gilent 3499C rear panel. Option FP1 (1 -s lot) and FP2 (2-slot) filler panels can be ordered to cover any un used slo ts.

Slot 0 Control Module

Mini DIN Connector

Slot 7

(2 slot width)

Slot 6

Slot 8

Slot 9

(3 slot width)

Slot 5

Slot 3

Slot 4

Slot 1

Slot 2

GPIB Connector

RS-232 Connector

Power Input

WARNING For prot ection from electri cal shock, the power cord grou nd must not be

defeated.

The Mini DIN Connector

The rear panel mini DIN connector is used to make connections to external triggers and the built-in digital I/O port. An Agilent N2289A cable (mini DIN to D9) can be ordered to assist connections to external devices. The figure below shows the pins used in the mini DIN connector.

In This Book

Quick Start Chapter 1 prepares the switch/control sy stem for use and helps you get familiar with a few of its front-panel features.

Front - Panel Menu Operation Chapter 2 introduces you to the frontpanel menu and describes some of the switch/control system’s menu features.

System Overview Chapt er 3 gives an overview of a switch/control system, describes how parts of the system work together, and describes the channel addressing scheme used.

Feature s and Function s Chapter 4 gives a detailed description of the swit c h/control system’s capabilities and operation. This chapter is useful for operating the sw it ch/c on t r ol s y st e m from th e front panel or the remote interface.

Remote Interface Reference Chapter 5 contains the 3488 mode language reference used to program the switch/control system over a remote inter fa ce.

Error Mess ag es Chapter 6 lists the error messages that may appear as you are working with the instrument.

Application Programs

application programs to help you develop programs for your switch/ contr ol sy st e m.

Note This manual does not describe the plug-in modules except in a general

way. Use the Agilent 3499A/B/C User’s Manual (shipped with the instrument) for complete details. A PDF version is also available at www.agilent.com.

If you have questions relating to the oper ation of the Agilent 3499A/B/C, call 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office.

If your 3499A/B/C fails within one year of purchase, Agilent will either repair or replace it free of charge. Call 1-877-447-7278 in the United States (and ask for “Agilent Express”) or contact your local Agilent Technologies Sales Office.

Chapter 7 contains several remote in te rf a ce

Chapter 1 Quick Start 11

To Prepare the Instrument for Use 13 To Install a Module in the 3499A/B/C 15 Basic Operation 17 To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C 21 Filler Panels 24

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation 25

To Power On the Instru ment 27 To Select the System Mode 27 To Monitor a Channel or a Slot 28 To Use a Digital I/O Port 30 To View Instrument Errors 35 Scanning Operation 37 To Pair Two Modules Together 40 To Configure fo r External Trig ge r 41 To Configur e th e Po we r- o n Sta te 4 3 To Configure th e Rem o te Interface 45 To Perform a Self-test 47 To Query the Firmware Revision 48 To Query the Serial Number 49 Local/Remote Control 50

Contents

Chapter 3 System Overview 51

Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System 53 Mainframes Overview 54 Firmware and Control Module Description 55 3488 Mode Differences 57 Plug-in Modules Overview 58 Channel and Slot Addressing 67 Factory Default and Reset States 71

Contents

Chapter 4 Features and Functions 73

Monitoring a Channel or a Slot 75 Switching a Relay Channel 77 Scanning 78 Digi tal I/O Ope r ation 84 State Storage 94 Error Conditions 96 Self-Test 96 Display Control 97 Relay Cycle Counts 98

Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference 99

Command Syntax 101 3488 Mode Command Q uick Reference 1 02 3488 Mode Commands 104

Chapter 6 Error Messages 135

Contents

Error Messages 136 Self T est Errors 136

Chapter 7 Application Programs 137

Visual C++ Example Program 139 Visual BASIC Example Program 141 BASIC Example Program 143

Index 145

Quick Start

This chapter describes the procedure to install the plug-in modules into an Agilent 3499A/B/C mainframe and mount t he m ainfram e onto a system rack. The basic operations of the Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/ Control System is also described. The chapter contents include:

•

To Prepare the Instrument for Use, on page 13

•

To Install a Modu le in the 3499A/B/C, on page 15

•

Basic Operation, on page 17

•

To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C, on page 21

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Prepare the Instrument for Use

1 Check the list of suppl ied ite ms

Verify that you have received the following items with your Agilent 3499A/B/C mainframe:

❏ One power cord; ❏ This User’s Manual; ❏ One Quick Reference Guide; ❏ One Tie Down Clip 03499-21002 (for Agilent 3499B only); ❏ Any plug-in modules that you ordered are delivered in separate

shipping containers.

2 Connect the power cord and turn on the instrument

1. Connect the 3499A/B/C to an AC po we r sou rc e with the supplied power cor d .

2. Push the Power sw itc h located on the low e r left si de of the front panel.

3. On power-up, every segment in the display will light up briefly, including all annunciators. Following this “starburst” display, the internal self- test will begin.

4. If the self-test passe s address are displayed, together with a “beep” sound. Then the display shows the instrument model number and the active slot (slot 0).

, the default system mode and the GPIB

SCPI GPIB 9

3499 0

If the self-test failed, the failure will be displayed on the front panel. For details of all self-test errors, refer to “Error Messages” starting on page

135.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Prepare the Instrument for Use

When shipped from the factory, the SCPI mode and the GPIB interface address of “9” are used. Slot 0 refers to the built-in controller board of the switch/control system.

If the Instrument Does Not Turn On

1. Verify that the power cord is firmly plugged into the power receptacle on the rear panel of the 3499A/B/C.

2. Make sure that the power source the 3499A/B/C is plugged into is energized.

3. Verify that the 3499A/B/C is turned on.

Note If the 3499A/B/C DOES NOT turn on after you perform the above

procedure, contact your nearest Agilent Service Center (see page 8).

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Install a Module in the 3499A/B/C

The plug-in modules you ordered were not installed in the mainframe. The figur e on pag e 16 sho ws how to install a pl ug -in m o dule into the 3499B mainframe. Other mainframes use similar procedures.

WARNING Disconnect th e p o wer cor d from the rear panel of the ma inframe prior to

installing or removing an y modules.

Caution Use anti-static procedure s when c onfiguring, installing or removing any

plug-in modules. To prevent contamination to the modules that could degrade performance, handle the modules by the side edges or shields only. Do not touch the board surfaces or components.

Each plug-in module may have terminal block(s) and/or the cables for wiring to external cir cui ts . These terminations are also shipped separately.

For more details about terminal blocks, cables, and connections, see the Agilent 3499A/B/C User’s Manual (shipped with the instrument) or visit www.agilent.com.

Module Removal

To remove a plug-in module from the Agilent 3499A/B/C mainframe, reverse the procedures shown on page 16.

STEP 1

STEP 2

1. Face the mainframe rear panel toward you.

2. Select a slot in which the module is to be installed.

STEP 3

1. Wire the screw terminal block (module

dependent).

2. Attach the screw terminal block to the plug-in

module.

(for modules with terminal blocks)

1. Hold the sides of the module, component side

down

2. Insert the module into the slot guides and slide

3. Push firmly until the module “snaps” into place.

4. Push both pla stic levers inward to lock the

STEP 4

1. Push firmly until the terminal block “snaps” into

2. Secure the screw terminal block with the two

, by the metal shields.

the module toward the front of the instrument.

module.

(for modules with terminal blocks)

place. screws (Torque < 8 in-lbs).

Module installation

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Basic Operation

An Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System can be easily operated from the front-panel, or programmed with SCPI commands over the remote inter fa ce.

The following sections are only intended to show the basic front-panel operation. F or deta iled front-panel op erat i on, refer to the “Front-Panel Operation” chapter on page 25. For more information about programming the instrument, refer to the “Remote Interface Reference” chapter on page 99.

Channel Addressing

A channel refers to an individual relay on a switching module, or an individual bit/port on a digital I/O module. The channel address is in the form of snn, where s repres ents sl ot number and nn represents a channel number.

For all mainframes, slot 0 refers to the 3499 controller board. Valid slot numbers are:

3499A slots 0 through 5 3499B slots 0 through 2 3499C slots 0 through 9

The chan ne l nu m b e r, nn, is plug-in module dependent. For additional information about channel numbers of individual plug-in modules, refer to the table beginning on page 67.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Basic Operation

To Sele ct a Slot and Channel

When the instrument is first turned on, the display shows the model number and the slot n umber of the controller board.

3499

Use the knob to selec t a channel on the acti ve slot. For example, with the display shown above, turning the knob to the right will select the first of the individual built-in digital I/ O ports.

DIN

The “DIN ” indic a te s the p o rt is set for a digital input operation. As the knob is turned, the additional ports are displayed followed by any installed plug-in modules.

If you have installed one or more plug-in modules, you can select the module by pressing the right arrow key. F o r example, if an N2260A (40channel MUX module) is installed in slot 1, pressing the right arrow key will show the module name and slot number.

090

N2260A 1

Turning the knob will then step through the individual channels on that module.

MUX

OPEN

100

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Basic Operation

To Open or Clo s e a C h annel

When a channel is selected, y ou can open or close the channel using the front panel keys. For example, with an N2260A 40-channel MUX installed in slot 1, select channel 00 as de scribed on t he previous page.

MUX

OPEN

100

Press the CLOSE key to close the channel.

MUX

Press the

OPEN

MUX

In this manner, you can select and control as many channels as you need. The N2260A has 40 channels numbered 0 through 39 (in slot 1, 100 through 139). You may also select additional plug-in modules and channels by turning the knob.

CLOSED

key to open the channel

OPEN

100

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Basic Operation

To Open All Channels on a Module

You can open individual channels on a module one at a time as described above. There are times, however, when it would be more expedient to open all channels on a module at once.

Use the arrow keys to select the module to work with. You cannot have an individual channel selected for this operation. For example, select the module in slot 1 (using t he N2 260A as an example) to show a display similar to this:

N2260A

Press and hold the card reset key. When you first press the k e y, the display shows:

HOLD TO RESET

When the card has been reset, the display briefly shows:

RESET CARD

and then returns to:

N2260A

To Reset All Modules

You can reset all channels on all modules in the mainframe at once. Press the shift key and th e n press and hold th e res et key. The display shows:

HOLD TO RESET

When the mainframe has been reset, the display will briefly show the reset and then return to the slot or channel display.

RESET . . .

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C

You can mount the Agilent 3499A/B/C on a standard 19-inch EIA rack cabinet with the opti on al rack -mo unting kits. The ins tru ct io ns and mounting hardware are included with each rack-mounting kit.

Agilent 34 99A

To rack mount a 3499A, the full-rack-width mainframe, order either:

•

Rack-mount kit with hand les, part number 5183-7170, or

•

Rack-mount kit without handles, part number 5183-7171.

3499A SWITCH/CONTROL SYSTEM

To Rack Mount an Agilent 3499A

Flange

Filler Panel

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C

Agilent 34 99B

To rack mount a single 3499B, order either:

•

Adapter kit, part number 5183-7172 (includes t he f lange and filler panel).

3499B SWITCH/CONTROL SYSTEM

To Rack Mou nt a Single Agilent 3499B with Adapter kit 5183-7172

•

A Support Shelf, part number 5063-9255,

•

A slide kit, part number 1494-0015,

•

And a filler panel, part number 5002-3999.

To Rack Mount a Single Agilent 3499B on a support shelf

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C

To rack mount two Agilent 3499B’s side-by-side (or any Syst em II instrument next to an Agilent 3499B), order:

•

A Support Shelf, part number 5063-9255,

•

And a slide kit, part number 1494-0015.

To Rack Mou nt Two Agilent 3499B’s Side-by-side

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Filler Panels

Agilent 34 99C

To rack mount an Agilent 3499C, order either:

•

Adapter kit without handles, part number 5063-9216, or

•

Adapter kit with handles, part number 5063-9223.

Adapter kit

To Rack Mount an Agilent 3499C

Filler Panels

Order filler panels to cover any unused slots in an Agilent 3499A/B/C.

•

1-slot filler panel, part number 03499-00023 (option FP1)

•

2-slot filler panel, part number 03499-00024 (option FP2)

Front- Panel Operation

Front-Panel Operation

The Agilent 3499A/B/C mainframes all operate the same from the frontpanel. This chapter does not give a detailed description of every possible front-panel operation. It does, however, give you a good overview of the front-panel menus and front-panel keys. See the “Features and Functions” chapter on page 73 for additional discussions of the instrument’s capabilities and operation. This chapter contents include:

•

To Power On the Instrument, on page 27

•

To Select the System Mode, on page 27

•

To Monitor a Channel or a Slot, on page 28

•

To Use a Digital I/O Port, on pag e 30

•

To View Instrument Errors, on page 35

•

Scanning Operation, on page 37

•

To Pair Two Modules Together, on page 40

•

To Configure for External Trigger, on page 41

•

To Configure the Power-on State, on page 43

•

To Configure the Remote Interface, on page 45

•

To Perform a Self-test, on page 47

•

To Que r y the Firmware Revision, on pa ge 48

•

To Query the Serial Number, on page 49

•

Local/Remote Control, on page 50

The following con ventions are used for the front-panel operation.

•

All keys on the front-panel keyboard are expressed in bold font and normally associated with a “press”. For example, press Mon.

•

All the front panel display annunciators are expressed in bold font followed by an “annunciator”. For example, MON annunciator.

•

The information shown on the fron t panel dis play is enclosed w ithin a pair of quotation mark s.

To Power On the Instrument

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Power On the Instrument

To power on the ins trument, press the power switch on the front panel. If the instrument is powered up for the first time, the instrument will use the fact ory default settings as shown on page 71. Other w i se, the instrument will power on to the state specified. Refer to "To Configure the Power-on State", on page 43 for more details.

To Select the System Mode

The instrument can be operated in either SCPI mode or 3488A mode (except Firmware REV 3.0, see page page 55 for mor e details). When shipped from the factory, the instrument is set to the SCPI mode. Perform the fol lowing procedure to select the desired system mode for the instrument before any operation.

1. Press Menu, the CONFIG annunciator lights up. Turn the knob until “SYSTEM MODE” is dis p layed, then press Enter.

SYSTEM MODE

2. Turn the knob until the desired system mode (i.e. 3488A MOD E ) is displayed, then press Enter.

HP 3488A M OD E

3. The instrument will be reset if the system mode has been changed. Otherwise, it retains the current mode and you can press Menu again to exit this operation.

Note Switching between SCPI mode and 3488A mode will reset the

instrument to the factory default settings, except the GPIB address which will retain its last setting.

This manual describes programming in the 3488 mode. For information about the SCPI programming mode please refer to the User’s Manual shipped with the Agilent 3499A/B/C, or visit www.agilent.com.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Monitor a Chan nel or a Slot

To Monitor a Channel or a Slot

You can continuously monitor the current status of a particular switching channel, a digital I/O port, or an entire plug-in module. Monitoring from the front pane l is espec ially u seful when devel oping and debugging remote interface commands.

1. Press the monitor key, the MON annunciator lights up to indicate the instrument is in the monitoring state.

2. Select the slot or the channel/port to be monitored. The displayed information depends on the selected module type. Typical displays are shown in the table on page 76.

3. If only pa r t of the channel status on the module can be displayed at one t i me, press Enter to display the next part.

For multiplexer modules and GP Relay modules, 10 channels can be displayed at one time; for matrix modules, one Row or one Column can be displayed at o ne time; for digital I/O modules, two 8-bit ports can be displayed at one time. For multifunction modules, the first function on the module is displayed, t hen the next.

4. Press the monitor key again to end monitoring (the MON annunciator turns off).

Note The built-in digital I/O bits/port (on the controller module) can be

monitored either individually as bit channels (numbered 091 through

094) or as a 4-bit port (numbe red 090). However, the individual bit

channels on a digital I/O or multifunction module (with a DIO function) cannot be monitored.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Monitor a Channel or a Slot

Display Description

The display for a multiplexer or a GP relay module. This

1:0,,,,,,6,,,9, 2

display indic at es t hat the m o nitored module is in Slot 2 and channels 10, 16, and 19 are closed.

The display for a matrix module. The top is the row

ROW 3:,1,,3,,,6,7 3

information, indicating that the relays on Row 3, Columns 1, 3, 6 and 7 of the module (in Slot 3) are closed. The lower display is the column information, indicating that relays on column 3,

0;,,3,COL 3, 3

row 0 and 3 are closed.

The display for a digital I/O module. The first 2 digits on the left

00:H255 L254. 4

(“00” in this case) represents the “L” 8-bit port address. Adding one to this value, the “H” 8-bit port address is obtained. Data with a trailing decimal point indicates that the last operation on that port was a WRITE, data without a trailing decimal point indicates that the last operation on that port was a READ. This display sh ows that th e data last read from Port 401 is 255 and the data last written to Port 400 is 254.

The top display is for the built-in digital I/O Port 090 (control

DIO 12 090

module) and the data from the last operation. The lower display indicates that data last written to the bit channel 091 is 0.

DOUT 0 091

ROW 0:,1,,3, 5

00:H255 L254. 5

For a multifunction module, the first fu nction on the module is displayed , then the next. This display is an example of a multifunction module with matrix and DIO functions (in slot 5).

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Use a Digital I/O Port

You can work with a digital I/O module as a port (all eight bits) or as individual bits.

Readi ng a Digital I/O Po r t

You can read data from the built-in 4-bit digital I/O port, or any one of the 8-bit ports on a digital I/O or multifunction module (with a DIO function). You can read the entire p ort (all bit s) w h en you select the slot (for example, the built-in port is channel 090). Alternately, you can read an individual bit by selecting the channel (for example the first bit in the built-in port is channel 091).

Perform the fol lowing procedure to read from a port:

1. Select a digital I/O por t. Use the kno b to se le ct the slot and channel number. The channel number is in the form of snn, wher e s is the slot number and nn is the channel number.

2. Read the data read from the selected port. For example, the display below shows the data read from port 401.

DIN 401

255

11111111

Decimal forma (default)

Binary format

The data display format of individual 8-bit ports can be specified either in binar y or deci mal formats (as described on page 33). Once specified, the format applies to all input and o utput operations on the same port.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Use a Digital I/O Port

Writing to a Digital I/O Port

You can write data to the built-in digital I/O port (num be red 090) or to one of the built-in digital I/O port bits (numbered 091 through 094), or any one of the 8-bit ports on a digital I/O or multifunc tion modul e (with a DIO function). To write to a port:

1. Select a digital I/O por t. Use the kno b to se le ct the slot and channel number. The channel number is in the form of snn, wher e s is the slot number and nn is the channel number. In the display, “DIN” indicates that the last operation on the port was a READ, and “DOUT”, a WRITE.

DIN

2. Press the Write key. “DOUT” is displayed to indicate the port is now an output port. The current port value is displaye d.

401

DOUT 401255

3. Edit the value. Use the arrow keys to select the to-be-edited bit (the digit to be edited is set to half bright in the display).

Turn the knob to modify the value. Use the arr ow keys to select the next digit and the knob to modify its value.

DOUT

4. When the value is the one desired, press Enter to output the data to the selected port.

5. Press Write again to cancel the current write operation.

254

401

Note Data display format of individual 8-bit ports can be specified either in

binary or decimal values (refer to the procedure on page 33). Once specified, the format applies to all input and output operations on the same port.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Use a Digital I/O Port

To Configure a D ig ital I/O Mod ul e

Digital I/O modules can be configured for handshake modes and control line, flag line, and I/O line polarity. U se the Mode menu to configure digital I/O parameters. See “Digital I/O Operation” on page 84 for detailed descriptions of the operating modes. Only plug-in modules can be configu red this way, the b uilt-in digital I/O port (control mod ule) can only be configured at the port level (see page 33).

The following proc edure configures a plug-in digital I/O module to use a two line digital h and shake mode (m o d e 5) f or data t rans f e rs.

1. Select the slot in which a digital I/O or multifunction module is installed. Th e channel number is in the form of snn, where s is the slot number and nn is the channel number.

N2263A

2. Press the Mode key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up in the display and the first-level menu is shown .

CONFIG DIO

3. Press Enter to begin the configuration. The display shows the second-level menu choice.

MODE 1 4

4. Turn the knob until the d es ired flow co ntr o l mo d e (i.e., M ODE 5) is displayed. The displ a y ed mode is half-bright.

MODE 5

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Use a Digital I/O Port

5. Press Enter to select the new mode. The display changes to show the next menu level.

CONT POL POS

6. You may change other configurati on paramete r s as desired using the same p r oc e d ure. When all desire d co nf igurations have b e en ma de , press the Mode key to exit the configuration men u. The CONFIG annunciator turns off.

To Configure a D I O Port

You can configure an individual digital I/O port to change the data polarity and the display format. The following procedure changes the built-in digital I/O port to display in binary number format.

1. Select a digital I /O port (i.e., port 090). The channel number is in the form of snn, where s is the slot n umber and nn is the channel number.

DIN 090

2. Press the Mode key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up in the display. The first level menu is shown:

DATA POLARITY

090

3. Turn the knob to select the second menu level

DISP FORMAT

4. Press Enter to select the format parameter.

DECIMAL

090

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Use a Digital I/O Port

5. Turn the knob until the desired data display format (i.e., BINARY) is displayed.

6. Press Enter to make the change and return to the first level of the

BINARY

Mode me nu.

DISP FORMAT

7. Press Mode again to exit the current configuration, the CONFIG annunciator turns off.

Note Once you have selected the data display format for a port, it applies to

both input and output operations on that port.

090

401

To View Instrument Errors

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

T o View Instrument Errors

You can view errors from the fron t panel. This feature is especially useful when developing remote instrument control. If an error occurs, the ERROR annunciator in the display will light. Errors are stored in the error queue in the order they occur. You read the erro rs in the same order. After all errors have been read, the queue is empty and the ERROR annunciator turns off. To view instrument errors:

1. Press the View key. The VIEW annunciator lights up and the display shows the first menu level.

ERROR

2. Press Enter to view the first error. a. If no error is in the error queue (the ERROR annunciator is off),

the display shows “NO ERROR” and t hen automatic ally retur ns to the first level of the View menu.

NO ERROR

ERROR

b. If there are errors (the ERRO R annunciator is on), the first error

in the error queue is displayed.

01:ERR -109

Press the right arrow key to scroll the display to show the entire error m essage.

MISSING PARAMETER

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To View Instrument Errors

3. Turn the knob to view other err o rs in the error queue (if any).

4. Press Enter to return to the first level of the View menu, the ERROR annunciator turns off.

5. Press View again to exit the View menu operation, the VIEW annunciator turns off.

Note All errors are cleared, and the ERROR annunciator turns off, once the

error queue is viewed. S ee the “Er ror Messages” chapter on page 135 for a complete list of error messages.

Scanning Operation

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

Scanning Operation

The instrument allows you to combine an external measurement device such as a Digital Multimeter (DMM) with multiplexer channels to create a scan. During a scan, the instrument closes the confi gured multiplexer channels one at a time to allow a measurement to be m ade on that channel.

Before initiating a scan, a scan list must be set up. You can also specify an arm source, a trigger sourc e, and the number of sweeps (a sweep is one pass through the scan list) to control the scan process. All these can be done from the S.List menu. The procedure in this chapter des cribes a simple sca n from the front panel. For more inform a tio n abo ut scanning and using the par am e te rs to contro l a scan , see pag e 78.

To Create a Scan List

1. Press the S.List key to enter the scan list menu . The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the first level of the menu is displayed.

ADD TO SCAN

2. Press Enter to begin the chann el selec tio n.

101

SELECT 101

3. Turn the knob to sel ect the firs t channel for the list (e.g., 103).

SELECT

4. Press Enter to add the chann el into the scan list. The star burst character lights in the display to indicate the channel is now a part of the scan li st.

SELECT *

103

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

Scanning Operation

5. Repeat step 3 and 4 to add additional channels to the list.

6. When the desired channels have been added, press the S.List key again to return to the first level of the menu.

ADD TO SCAN

7. Press S.List again to exit the menu. The CONFIG a n nunc i ato r tur ns off.

107

To Perform Scanning

After the scan configuration is complete, the actual scan can be performed.

1. Press the Step key to close the first channel in the scan list.

2. Press the Step key again to o pen the f i rst c h annel a nd close the next channel in the list.

This procedu re shows a simple way to scan, one channel at a time for each press of a front pane l key. You can als o pres s the Scan key to scan all channels in the list according to the various scan parameters set. In the default parameter state, pressing the Scan key will cause all the channels in the list to cycle through at the maximum possible speed. While this occu rs, the SCAN annunciator is lighted. For details about the scan parameters, see page 78.

To Clear a Scan List

You can clear a scan list once it has been configured.

1. Press the Shift key and then the S.List key. The display will briefly show:

101

CLR SCAN LIST

and then return to norm al oper atio n.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

Scanning Operation

To View a Scan List

You can view which channels are included in a scan list. This example assumes that channels 103 through 107 are included in the scan list.

1. Press the View key. The VIEW annunciator lights up and the display shows the first level menu.

ERROR

2. Turn the knob until “SCAN LIST” is displayed.

3. Press Enter. The first channel in the scan list is displayed on the channel area.

101

SCAN LIST

103

001 OF 005

Turn the knob to view other channels in the scan list.

104

002 OF 005

4. Press Enter to return to the f i rst level of the V iew menu.

SCAN LIST

5. Press View again to exit the View menu. The VIEW annunciator turns off.

107

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Pair Two Modules Together

You can pair two modules together so that they operate as a single unit. The two m od ules to be paired must be identic a l (that is, they must have the same model number) and be installed in the same mainframe. When two modules are paired together, any operation on a channel of one module will be d uplicated on the correspo nd ing channel of the other module. The exam ple below pairs modules installed in slots 2 and 5.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and “CARD PAIR” is displayed.

2. Press Enter. When “FIRS T SLOT x” is displayed, turn the knob to selec t t he first

slot to be paired (i.e., Slot 2).

FIRST SLOT 2

3. Press Enter.

When “SECOND SLOT x” is displayed, turn the knob to select the

second slot to be paired (i.e., Slot 5) .

SECOND SLOT 5

4. Press Enter to return to the first level of the Me nu menu.

CARD PAIR

5. Press Menu again to exit the Menu menu. The CONFIG annunciator turns off.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

T o Configure for External Trigger

To Configure for External Trigger

You can use one of two modul e s for an external trigge r . The built-in rear panel TRIG IN and TRIG OUT pair (on the control module) or the EI (External Increment) and the CC (Channel Closed) pair on a 44474A module. Only one pair can be used at a time. You can specify which pair to use and whether a trigger out pulse is sent out when a relay is closed during scanning operations. Refer to “Scanning” on page 78 for more details.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the display shows the first level menu.

CARD PAIR

2. Turn the knob to s how th e sec on d m e nu item, “CONF EXT TRIG”.

CONF EXT TRIG

3. Press Enter. The display shows the next level menu.

TRIG SLOT 0

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

T o Configure for External Trigger

4. Turn the knob t o sele ct the s lot f or the ex ternal tr igger . Slot 0 (cont rol module) is the bui lt- in external trigger (available at t he rear panel mini D IN c o nn e c t or , se e pa g e 7 ). I f a 44474A i s no t i n s ta l l e d, o nl y slot 0 will be shown. Press Enter. The display shows the current setting for the external tri gger.

DISABLE

5. Turn the knob to show th e alter nat e cho ice.

ENABLE

6. Press Enter to accept the choice and return to the fi rst level menu.

CONF EXT TRIG

7. Press the Menu key to exit the menu. The CONFI G annunciator turns off.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Configure the Power-on State

Firmware Rev 4.0 ONLY. To read your firmware ve rsion, see the procedure on page 48. For more information about firmware revisions, see “Firmware and Control Module Description” on page 55.

An instrument with Firmware REV 4.0 or later c an be set to power on to the reset state (see “Factory Default and Reset States” on page 71) or to a state previously stor ed in a specified memory location. The instrument will return to the specified state the next time it is turned on.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the display shows the first menu level.

CARD PAIR

2. Turn the knob until “POWER ON SET” is displayed.

POWER ON SET

3. Press Enter to show th e sec on d le v e l me nu.

PWR ON RESET

4. To set the instrument power-on to the reset state, press Enter. The instrument will return to the first level menu.

Alternately, to set the instrument power-on to a stored stat e : Turn the knob until “USER SET UP” is displayed.

USER SET UP

5. Press Enter to select the stored state to use.

POWER ON 05

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Configure the Power-on State

6. Turn th e knob to select the desired memory location (i.e. , 08).

POWER ON 08

7. Press Enter to accept the stored state and return to the first level menu. More information about storing states is given on page 94 of this manual.

POWER ON SET

8. Press the Menu key again to exit the Menu menu. The CONFIG annunciator turns off.

Note If the instrument is set to power on to a previo usl y stored setup that is

no longer valid, it will automatically power on to the reset state and “RECALL FAILED” will be displayed.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Configure the Remote Interface

In 3488 mode, the instrument can communicate with a computer over the GPIB interface. When shipped from the factory, the GPIB interface is selected and its address is set to “9”.

Note The RS-232 interface can be configured and used only in SCPI mode.

GPIB Int e r face

Each device on the GPIB interface must have a unique address.

•

When shipped from the factory, the GP IB interfa ce is selected and its address is set to “9”. The GPIB address of the instrument can be set to any value between 0 and 30.

•

The GPIB address is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when the instrument is turned off or reset.

•

Switching between SCPI mode and 3488A m o de c auses the 3499A/B/C to select the GPIB interface and its address setting.

To set the GPIB interface:

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the first level menu is shown.

CARD PAIR

2. Turn the knob to select “INTERFACE” in the menu.

INTERFACE

3. Press Enter to show the second level menu The active interface is shown. If necessary, turn the knob until “GPIB/488” is displayed.

GPIB/488

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Configure the Remote Interface

4. Press Enter to select the interface and show the first parameter.

ADDRESS 09

5. Turn the knob to set GPIB address (i.e., 07). Va l i d addres se s range from 00 to 30.

ADDRESS 07

6. Press Enter to show the second parameter.

SRQ ON

7. Press Enter to enabl e the in str um e nt to assert the SRQ lin e w h en powered up. If the computer is so configured, this can be used to interrupt the system computer.

To disable this feature, turn the knob to select “SRQ OFF ” and press Enter. The instrum e nt returns to the first level of the men u.

8. Press Menu again to exit the menu.The CONFIG annunciator turns off.

To Perform a Self-test

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Perform a Self-test

The self-test feature of the instrument provides you with a method of verifyin g proper instrument operation.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the first level menu is shown.

CARD PAIR

2. Turn the knob to select “SELFTEST”.

SELFTEST

3. Press Enter. The self test will begin. The display will briefly show a “starburst” pattern (all display segments lit). Following the pattern, the disp lay indicates:

TEST. . .

while the internal tests are being performed. The self-test takes several seconds to complete.

If the self-test is successful, “PASSED” will be displayed. Otherwise, the reason of the failure will be displayed. For details on self-test failures, occur during a self-test (in 3488A m ode).” on page 136.

refer to “ T h e e r ro rs liste d b e low indicate fa ilu re s that ma y

PASSED

4. Press Enter to return to the first level of the m e nu.

SELFTEST

5. Press Menu again to exit the Menu menu, the CONFIG annunciator turns off.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Query the Firmware Revision

Perform the following procedur e to quer y the 3499A/B/ C fir m war e an d revision. For a description of the firmware and hardware revisions, see “Firmware and Control Module Description” on page 55.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the first level menu is shown.

CARD PAIR

2. Turn the knob to select “REVISION INFO”.

REVISION INFO

3. Press Enter. The system firmware revisio n nu mber will be displayed.

REVISION 4.0 2.0

4. Press Enter to return to the first level of the Me nu menu.

REVISION INFO

5. Press Menu again to exit the Menu menu, the CONFIG annunciator turns off.

To Query the Serial Number

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

To Query the Serial Number

Perform the following proced ur e to que r y the 3499A/B/ C serial number.

1. Press the Menu key. The CONFIG annunciator lights up and the first level menu is shown.

CARD PAIR

1. Turn the knob to select “SERIAL NO”.

SERIAL NO

2. Press Enter. The Agilent 3499A/B/C serial number is displayed.

MY12345678

3. Press Enter again to return to the first level of the Menu menu.

SERIAL NO

4. Press Menu again to exit the Menu menu, the CONFIG annunciator turns off.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Operation

Local/Remote Contro l

Local/Remote Control

Note If the front panel keys are locked thro ugh either the SYSTem:RWLock

The instrument operates in two data entry modes, local and remote. In local mode, all keys on the front panel are fully functional. In remote mode, some front panel keys are locked (exception are: Local, Mo n, View, Enter, the arrow keys, and the knob).

The instrument will en ter the re mote state upo n receipt of any command over the remote interface. The RMT annunciator lights.

You can regain control of the front panel keys when the instrument is in remote by pressing the Shift (Local) key. The RMT annunciator turns off and the instrument ret urn to local mode.

command on the RS-232 interface or a LOCAL LOCKOUT command on the GPIB interface, the local key will not function. You can restore the front panel operation by cycling power the instrument or by sending a SYSTem:LOCal command on the RS-232 interface, or a LOCAL command on the GPIB interface.

System Overview

An Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System is composed of a mainframe and a set of Plug-in modules. This chapter provides a typical configuration of a test system using the 3499A/B/C for switching and control, followe d by a descr iptio n of the three mainfram e s a nd all the Plug-in modules. The following sections are included in this chapter:

•

Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Co ntrol System, on page 53

•

Mainframes Overview, on page 54

•

Firmware and Control Module Description, on page 55

•

3488 Mode Differences, on page 57

•

Plug-in Modules Overview, on page 58

•

Channel and Slot Addressing, on page 67

•

Factory Default and Reset States, on page 71

Chapter 3 System Overview

Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Contro l System

Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Con t rol System

The Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System provides high density and high speed switching for routing test signals to and from your DUTs (devices under test) and test instruments such as external DMMs, scopes, counters, power supplies, etc. Whether you are involved in a large production test system or a small R&D bench top system, the Agilent 3499A/B/C provides an ideal combination of price/performance solution. W ith a wide variety of availab le plu g-in mo d ules, you can configure your test system much more e asi ly and flex ibly. The figure below shows the typical configuration of a test system.

DUT

Agilent 3499A/B/C

IEEE488.2 (GPIB)

A Typical Test System

Source(s)

Plug-in Modules

Instrument Device(s)

Custom Equipment

Chapter 3 System Overview

Mainframes Overview

Three mainframes are available:

Slots Available Rack Width

3499A

5 full width

3499B 3499C

The 3499C is d es ig ne d t o ac c om m od at e m u lti ple width plu g- i n mo du les and has 9 log ic al

slots but 14 mechanical slots. Slots 1 through 6 are 1-slot wide, slot 7 is 2-slots wide, and slots 8 and 9 are each 3-slots wide. See the figure on page 7 for more information.

All mainframes can be either operated from the front-panel or programed over a remote interface (GPIB or RS-232).

The mainframes can be operated in either of two system modes: SCPI mode or 3488A mode. The SCPI mode allows the full realization of performance potentials and advanced features, such as parallel operation of mu ltiple relays on multiple modules. The 3488A mode is included for backward compatibility with the legacy Agilent 3488A system. This manual documents the 3488 mode of operation.

For information about the SCPI programming mode please refer to the User’s Manual shipped with your Agilent 3499A/B/C, or visit www.agilent.com.

2 half width

full width

Chapter 3 System Overview

Firmware and Control Module Description

The Agilent 3499A/B/C and this manual support two versions of the Agilent 3499A/B/C control module and four versions of fir mware.

Firmware revisions and control module versions can be queried from the front-panel. See page 48 for a procedure to read the revision from the front-panel.

From the front-panel:

Control Module Revision Firmware Revision Typical Display

1.0 1.0 REVISION 1.0

1.0 2.0 REVISION 2.0

1.0 3.0 REVISION 3.0

2.0 4.0 REV 4.0 2.0

The table o n the next pag e lists the differe nces between firmware and control module revisions.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Firmwa re and Control Module Description

Firmware Version

1.0 1.0 Stored setups

2.0 1.0 Stored setups

3.0 1.0 Stored setups

4.0

Control Module Version

2.0 Stored setups

State Storage

are cleared if power is cycled.

are saved. Instrument can be programmed to power up in a set state.

Plug-in module Support

Must upgrade hardware and firmware.

Supports all modules except: N2272A N2276A/B N2282A

SCPI Mode supports all modules. 3488A Mode supports all modules except: N2272A, N2276A/B, o r N2282A.

SCPI Mode: supports all modules. 3488A Mode supports all modules except: N2272A, N2276A/B, o r N2282A.

Programming Modes

Not App lic ab le YES

Firmwa re Version 2.0 allows programming in both SCPI Mode and 3488A Mode.

Firmwa re Version 3.0 limits programming to either SCPI Mode or 3488A Mode (not both)

Firmwa re Version 4.0 allows programming in both SCPI Mode and 3488A Mode.

Firmware Upgrade Needed?

Upgrade to Firmwa re Revision 3.0 ONLY if using N2272A, N2276A/B, or N2282A.

Upgrade to firmware revision

4.0 ONLY if control board revision is upgraded to 2.0.

Upgrading to firmware revision 4.0 requires the control module be upgraded to revision 2.0.

Contro l module re vision 1. 0 does not support fi rmw are re visi on 4.0 .

Chapter 3 System Overview

3488 Mode Differences

This manual describes using the Agilent 3499A/B/C in the 3488 mode of operation. In general, the SCPI mode of operation is recommended. All the features and functions of 3499A/B/C system and plug-in modules are supported in SCPI mode. The 3488 mode is a subset and does not support all available features.

Some of the major differences in 3488 mode of operation are summarized below:

• The RS-232 interface is not supported in 3488 mode. You must use the GPIB interface for remote programming.

• The 3488 mode d o es not provide as muc h control ove r the scann ing process as SCPI mode. You cannot use the arm and trigger layers of scan cont ro l.

• The 3488 mode only provides a ccess to the status byte register. You cannot use the Standard Event or Operation Status registers.

• With firmware revision 4.0, you can store up to 40 setups (50 setups in SCPI mode).

• Scan lists are not saved after cycling power.

• The relay cycle count feature is only available from the front-panel.

• The N2260A and N2266A can only be used in 40-channel 2-wire mode.

• The 3488 Mode does not support the following plug-in modules: N2272A, N2276A/B, or N2282A.

• Port numbering for Digital I/O modules is different.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

The Agilent 3499A/B/C mainfram e s sup p or t multiple Plug-in modules, including all the existing 3488A modules (4447XX mo dules) , as well as several new ones (N22XXX modules). Based on their functions, the modules can be divided into five classes:

•

Multiplexer (MUX) modules

Note Refer to the Agilent 3499A/B/C User’s Manu al (s hippe d with the

•

General Purpose Relay (GP) modules

•

Matrix modules

•

Digital I/O (DIO) modules

•

Multifunction modules

•

Optical Modules

instrument) or visit www.agilent.com for the details of the individual Plug-in modules.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

MUX Modules

A MUX (multiple xer) module switches one signal to mul tip le DUTs (devices under test), or mu ltiple signals to one device, one at a time. Example applications include capacitor leakage, connector/switch contact, and insulation resistanc e te st sys tems. To exp and switchi ng capacity or build special configurations, the multiplexer switching modules can also be used with matrix or other switching modules. The figure below shows a simple 1 x 4 Multiplexer.

Simple Multiplexer Switching

Multiplexers are available in seve ral types:

•

One-Wire (Single-Ended) Multiplexer for common LO measurements

•

Two-Wire Multiplexer for floating measurements

•

Four-Wire Multiplexer for resistance and RTD measurements

•

Very High Frequency (VHF) / Microwave Multiplexer for switching frequenc ie s up to m icrowave (26.5 GHz).

The table o n the next page lists the available MUX m odul es .

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Model Number

N2260A 40-Channel MUX

N2266A 40-Channel MUX

N2268A 50Ω 3.5 GHz Dual

N2270A 10-Channel High

44470A/D 10/20-Channel

Module Name

Module

4-to-1 MUX Module

Voltage MUX Module

MUX Module

Mainframe Slots Required

1 Latching In 3488 mode, a 40-channel 2-

1 Reed non-

1 Latching Consists of two independent 1-

2Non-

1 Latching The 10/20 DPST (Double-pole

Relay Type

latching

Description

wire multiplexer, switches both HI and LO inputs (200 V, 1 A) with DPST relays.

In 3488 mode, a 40-channel 2wire multiplexer.

to-4 MUX switches which can switch up to 30VDC or peak AC at frequencies from DC to

3.5 GHz. 10-channel 2-wire High Voltage

MUX module with maximum switching voltage 1000V peak and maximu m s w itching power 10W.

Single-throw) relays switch both HI and LO inputs up to 250V, 2A with low differential offsets for accurate measurements.

44472A Dual 4-Channel

VHF Switch Module

44478A/B 50Ω/75Ω 1.3 GHz

Multiplexer

1 Latching The two independent groups of

bidirectional 1x4 switches with 50Ω characteristic impedance can be used for signals from DC to 300 MHz.

1 Latching The two independent groups of

bidirectional 1x4 switches with 50Ω/75Ω characteristic impedance can be used for signals from DC to 1.3 GHz.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

GP Modules

The GP (General Purpose) relay modules often consist of independent latching or non-latching relays. They are useful for creating additional isolation between circuits, providing safety interlocks, actuating other relays or circuits, or building special topologies such as binary ladders and tree structures. A sim ple 4- ch annel SPST (Single-pole Sin gle -thr o w) GP switch is shown below.

CH01

CH02

CH03

CH04

H L

L H

CH01

CH02

CH03

CH04

The table b el ow lists th e available GP relay mo d ules.

Model Number

N2261A 40-Channel GP

N2267A 8-Channel

44471A 10-Channel GP

Module Na me

Relay Module

High Current GP Module

Relay Module

A Simple General Purpose Switch

Mainframe Slots Required

1 Latching The 40 independent SPST relays

1 Non-

1 Latching The 10 independent SPST (Single-

Relay Type

latching

Description

provid e quality connections for low level signals. Can a lso sw itch signals up to 200V, 1A.

An 8-channel High Current GP module which can switch up to 8A 250VAC or 5A 30VDC, with decreasi ng current to 1A at 125VDC.

pole Single-throw) relays provide quality connections for low level signals. Can also switch signals up to 250V, 2A.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Model Number

44471D 20-Channel GP

44475A Breadboard

44476A 3-Channel 18

44476B 2-Channel

Module Na me

Relay Module

Module

GHz Switch Module

Microwave Switch Module

Mainframe Slots Required

1 Latching The 20 independent SPST (Single-

1 NA Use the breadboard for custom circuits

1 Latching The 3 independent 50Ω SPDT (Single-

1 NA Similar t o the 44476A but does not

Relay Type

Description

pole Single-throw) relays provide quality connections for low level signals. Can also switch signals up to 250V, 1A.

and special purpose functions in your test system.

pole Double-throw) coaxial switches with SMA connectors provide high isolation, low insertion loss, and low VSWR for switching signals up to 18 GHz.

have the coaxial switches installed. A variety of coaxial switches can be mounted onto the modul e to provide 3-, 4-, or 5-port switching up to

26.5 GHz.

44477A 7-Channel

Form-C Relay Module

1 Latching 7 independent, break-before-make,

SPDT Form-C relays for general purpose switching and control of external devices up to 250V, 2A.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Matrix Modules

A matrix switch is the most versatile type of system switching. Any input can be connected to any output, individually or in combination. This helps minimize the need for compl ex wiring, and can sim pli fy t he D U T interface. In addition, a matrix module can be used in conjunction with other modules to provide a wide variety of switching combinations. A matrix is arranged in rows and columns and a simple 4 x 4 matrix switch is shown below.

The table b el ow lists th e ava ilable m atrix modules.

Model Number

N2262A 4 x 8 Matrix

44473A 4 x 4 Matrix

Module Name

Module

Matr ix Switching

Mainframe Slots Required

1 Latching Each crosspoint or node of the 4 x 8

1 Latching Each crosspoint or node of the 4 x 4

Relay Type

Description

matrix module uses a DPST (Doublepole Single-throw) relay to switch two wires (Hi & Lo) for signals up to 200V, 1A.

matrix module uses a DPST (Doublepole Single-throw) relay to switch two wires (Hi & Lo) for signals up to 250V, 2A.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Digital I/O Mod ule s

The digital I/O modules provide high-density digital input/output capabilities in an easy-to-control form. The independent TTL-compatible inputs and outpu ts mak e it well-suited for monitorin g and controlling devic e s compactly and cost-effecti vely. Typicall y, the dig i tal outpu ts are used to provide drive for relatively high current devices such as solenoids, relays and small motors. Th e d igital inputs are used to monitor devices such as micro-sw itches. A simplified schematic of a sing l e digit a l input and output l i ne is shown below.

OPEN COLLECTOR/ CURRENT SINK (VMOS FET)

DRIVER OUTPUT

+5V

ONE I/O LINE

The table b el ow lists th e available d igita l I/ O modu les.

Model Number

Module Name

N2263A 32-Bit Digital I/O

Module

44474A 16-Bit Digital I/O

Module

INPUT SENSE

A Simple Digital I/O Circuit

Mainframe Slots

Descriptions

Required

1 The module offers 32-bidirectional I/O lines and

three handshake lines for sensing and control of external devices up to 42 V, 600 mA. All lines are TTL-compatible.

1 The module offers 16-bidirectional I/O lines and

four handshake lines for sensing and control of external devices up to 30 V, 125 mA. All lines are TTL-compatible.

REFERENCE

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Multifunction Modules

A multifunction modu le combines two or more functions such as MUX, GP, Matrix, Digital I/O or DAC onto a single module, making it possible to implement a complicated switching application with fewer modules. Therefore, the cost is reduced by minimizing the number of mainframes and modules requ ired.

Each separate function on a multifunction module can be operated independently. Fo r example, an A gilent N2265A can be used as both a 4 x 4 matrix module and a 16-bit digital I/O module.

The table below lists the available multi fu nc tio n mod ules.

Model Number

N2264A 12-Channel GP +

N2265A 4 x 4 Matrix +

Module Name

3-Channel Highcurrent GP + 16-Bit Digital I/O Module

16-Bit Digital I/O Module

Mainframe Slots Required

1 Non-

1 Latchi ng T he module provides 4 x 4 2-wire

Relay Type

latching

Description

The module provides 12-channel SPST (Single-pole Single-throw) GP relays for signals up to 200 V, 1 A, 3-channel high-current GP relays for signals up to 125 V, 5 A, and 16-bit digital I/O for sensing and control of external devices up to 42 V, 600 mA.

matr ix for signals up to 200V, 1A, and 16-bit digital I/O for sensing and control of external devices up to 42 V, 600 mA.

Chapter 3 System Overview

Plug-in Modules Overview

Opti ca l M odules

The Agilent N228 0A an d N 2281A are optical switch modules. The table below lists the information about these three optical modules.

Model Number

N2280A Optical Switch Quad 1-to-

N2281A Optical Switch Dual 1-to-

Module Na me

2 MUX Module

4 MUX Module

Mainframe Slots Required

2Non-

Relay Type

latching

Description

Four 1-to-2 Optical Switches

Two 1-to-4 Optical Switches

Chapter 3 System Overview

Channel and Slot Addressing

For all mainframes, slot 0 refers to the 3499A/B/C control board. Valid slot numbers are:

3499A s lots 0 through 5 3499B s lots 0 through 2 3499C slots 0 through 9

The chan ne l nu m b e r, nn, is plug-in module dependent. Detailed information about channel numbers of individual plug-in modules is given below and on the following pages.

Plug-in Module

N2260A 40-Channel MUX Module

N2261A 40-Channel GP Relay Module

N2262A 4X8 Matrix Module

a. The N2260A and N2266A can be only be used as a 40-channel 2-wire MUX modulein 3488 mode. b. A channel numb er on a mat rix modu le is for me d in Slot- Ro w- Col umn forma t , i.e. , chan nel ad dr e ss s23 mean s row 2,

colum n 3 in S l ot s.

Channel Addressing (snn) s = Slot Number; nn = Channel Number

2-Wire Mode: s00, s01...s38, s39

s00, s01, s02, s03... s37, s38, s39

Row 0, 1, 2, 3; Column 0, 1, 2, 3... 6, 7 (s00, s01, s02... s07; s10, s11, s12... s17; s20, s21, s22... s27; s30, s31, s32... s37)

Chapter 3 System Overview

Channel and Slot Addressing

Plug-in Module

N2263A 32-Bit Digital I/O Module

N2264A 12-Channel GP Relay + 3-Channel High-current GP Relays + 16-Bit Digital I/O Module

N2265A 4x4 Matrix + 16-Bit Digital I/O Module

N2266A 40-Channel MUX Module

Channel Addressing (snn) s = Slot Number; nn = Channel Number

Individual Bits: s00, s 01, s02... s30, s31 8-Bit Ports: s00, s01, s02, s03 16-Bit Ports: s04, s05 32-Bit Port: s06

12 GP Relays: s00, s01 , s02... s10, s11 3 High-current GP Relays: s20, s21, s2 2 16-Bit Digital I/O: Individual Bits: s30, s 31, s 32 ... s44, s45 8-Bit Ports: s30, s31 16-Bit Port: s32

4x4 Matrix:

Row 0, 1, 2, 3; Column 0, 1, 2, 3 (s00, s01, s02, s03; s10, s11, s 12, s1 3; s20, s21, s22, s23; s30, s31, s32, s33)

16-Bit Digital I/O: Individual Bits: s40, s 41, s42... s54, s55 8-Bit Ports: s40, s41 16-Bit Port: s42

2-Wire Mode: s00, s01...s38, s39

N2267A

s00, s01, s02... s07

8-Channel High Current GP Module N2268A

s00, s01, s02, s03; s10, s11, s 12 , s13

50Ω 3.5 GHz D ual 4-to-1 MUX Module

a. A chann el number on a m a trix module is formed in Slot -Row-Column format, i.e., channel address s23 means row 2,

colum n 3 in S l ot s.

b. The N2260A and N2 266A can only be us ed as a 40-channel 2-wire MUX module in 3488 mode .

Chapter 3 System Overview

Channel and Slot Addressing

Plug-in Module

N2270A 10-Channel HIgh Voltage MUX Module

N2280A Optical Switch Quad 1-to-2 M UX Module

N2281A Optical Switch Dual 1-to-4 MUX Module

4-Bit Built-in Digital I/O (slot 0 control module)

44470A 10-Channel MUX Module

44470D 20-Channel MUX Module

44471A 10-Channel GP Relay Module

44471D 20-Channel GP Relay Module

44472A Dual 4-Channel VHF Module

Channel Addressing (snn) s = Slot Number; nn = Channel Number

s00, s01, s02... s07

s00, s01; s10, s11; s20, s21; s 30 , s31

s00, s01, s02, s03;s10, s11, s12, s13

Individual Bits: 091, 092, 093, 094 4-Bit Port: 090

s00, s01, s02, s03... s08, s09

s00, s01, s02, s03... s18, s19

s00, s01, s02, s03... s08, s09

s00, s01, s02, s03... s18, s19

Group 0: s 00, s 01, s 02, s03 Group 1: s 10, s 11, s12, s13

44473A 4x4 Matrix Module

a. A chan nel number on a mat rix module is form ed in Slot-Row- Column fo rmat, i.e., cha nnel address s23 means row 2,

colum n 3 in S l ot s.

Row: 0, 1, 2, 3; Column: 0, 1, 2, 3 (

s00, s01, s02, s03; s10, s11, s12, s13;

s20, s21, s22, s23; s30, s31, s32, s33)

Chapter 3 System Overview

Channel and Slot Addressing

Plug-in Module

44474A 16-Bit Digital I/O Module

44475A Breadboard Module

44476A 3-Channel 13 GHz Microwave Switch Module

44476B 2-Channel 26 GHz Microwave Switch Module

44477A 7-Channel Form-C Relay Module

44478A

50 Ω 1.3 GHz MUX Module

44478B

75 Ω 1.3 GHz MUX Module

Channel Addressing (snn) s = Slot Number; nn = Channel Number

Individual Bits: s00, s 01, s02... s14, s15 8-Bit Ports: s00, s01 16-Bit Port: s02

N/A

s00, s01, s02

s00, s01

s00, s01, s02, s03, s04, s05, s06

Group 0: s00, s01, s02, s03 Group 1: s 10, s 11, s12, s13

Group 0: s 00, s 01, s 02, s03 Group 1: s 10, s 11, s12, s13

Chapter 3 System Overview

Factory Default and Reset States

The table on the next page shows the settings of the instrument after a reset.

•You can reset the instrument either by pressing Shift + Card Reset o n the front- pa nel, or with a RESET command over the remote in terface.

•If a module is accidentally remo ve d o r installed while the instrument power is on, the instrument will preform a reset.

3488 Mode Defaults

Item Factory Default Reset

Interface GPIB/488 GPIB (Address 9) Keep current setting

RS-232

System Mode SCPI Mode SCPI Mode Keep current setting

3488A Mode Keep current setting

System-Related Display State On On

Stored State Empty Keep current setting Error Queue Empty Cleared

Module-Related Switching Channels Open Open

Digital I/O Ports Input Input Card Pair None None

Scan-Related Scanning None Stop scan in progress

Scan List Empty Empty Channel Delay

(seconds) Trigger Out Pulse Disabled Disabled

Keep current setting

a. Curr ent setting inc l ud es th e selectio n of the G PI B int e rface and its a dd r es s se tting. b. RS-232 interface CANNOT be used in 3488A mode.

Features and Functio ns

Features and Functions

This chapter provides details about particular functions and features of the Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Control System. The sections in this chapter describe the features using both the fro nt-panel and the remo te interface using SCPI commands. The examples in this chapter are general. For specific procedures using the front panel refer to Chapter 2. For SCPI command information refer to Chapter 5. The following sections are included in this chapter:

•

Monitoring a Channel or a Slot, on page 75

•

Switching a Relay Channel, on page 77

•

Scanning, on page 78

•

Digital I/O Operation, on page 84

•

State Storage, on page 94

•

Error Conditions, on page 96

•

Self-Test, on page 96

•

Display Control, on page 97

•

Relay Cycle Counts, on page 98

The following con ventions are used for the front-panel operation.

•

All keys on the front-panel keyboard are expressed in bold font and normally associated with a “press”. For example, press Mon.

•

All the front-panel display annunciators are expressed in bold font followed by an “annunciator”. For example, MON annunciator.

•

The information shown on the front-pa nel dis play is enc losed wi thin a pair of quotation mark s.

•

Shift + Recall1 indicates the sequential operation: first press Shift, then press Recall.

Also applicable to keys Card Reset, Scan, and S.List.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Monitoring a Channel or a Slot

You may need to continuously monitor the current status of a particular switching channel, a digital I/O port, or an entire plug-in module. This is especially useful when developing and debugging remote interface comma nd s or watching fo r an important signal.

•

To monitor a channel or a port, specify the channel or port number. To monitor a plug-in module, specify the slot number. The displayed information is module type dependent as shown o n t he next page.

•

Front-Panel Operation: To se lect a channel, a digital I/O port, or a slot, press Mon. The MON annunciator lights up. Press Mon again to exit this state.

MUX 101

DIN

1:0 , , , , , ,6, , ,9,

00: H255 L254. 4

If only part of the channel status on the module can be displayed at one t i me, press Enter to display the next part.

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “VIEW 103”

OUTPUT 709; “VIEW 431”

OUTPUT 709; “CMON 2”

OPEN

Monitor a switc hing channel 101.

400255

Monitor a DIO Port 400.

Monitor a MUX or GP module.

Monitor a DIO module.

! Query the state of a relay

channel 103.

! Query the state of a bit

channel 431.

! Monitor the module in

slot 2.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Monit oring a Channel or a Slot

Example MON Display Des criptio n

1:0,,,,,,6,,,9, 2

ROW 3:,1,,3,,,6,7 3

0;,,3,COL 3, 3

00:H255 L254. 4

DIO 12 090

DOUT 0 091

The display for a multiplexer or a GP relay module. This display indic at es t hat the m o nitored module is in Slot 2 and channels 10, 16, and 19 are closed.

The display for a matrix module. The top display is the row information, indicating that the relays on Row 3, Columns 1, 3, 6 and 7 of the module (in Slot 3) are closed. The lower display is the column information, indicating that relays on column 3, row 0 and 3 are closed.

The display for a digital I/O module. The first 2 digits on the left (“00” in this case) represents the “L” 8-bit port address. Adding one to this value, the “H” 8-bit port address is obtained. Data with a trailing decimal point indicates that the last operation on that port was a WRITE, data without a trailing decimal point indicates that the last operation on that port was a READ. This display sh ows that th e data last read from Port 401 is 255 and the data last written to Port 400 was 254.

The top display is for the built-in digital I/O Port 090 (controller module) and the data from the last operation. The lower display indicates that data last written to th e bit channel 091 is 0.

ROW 0:,1,,3, 5

00:H255 L254. 5

For a multifunction module, the first fu nction on the module is displayed , then the next. This display is an example of a multifunction module with matrix and DIO functions (in slot 5).

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Switching a Relay Channel

Switchi ng a Re la y Chan ne l

Switch modules can be used to route signals to and from your test system. Thi s is achi ev ed by c l osin g or open ing the relay channels on these modules.

•

From the front-panel, you can open or close one relay channel at a time. How eve r, o ver the GPIB interface, multiple relay channels can be operated by a single command if a channel list is specified. In addition, these open or closed states can be stored, and a stored channel setup can be included in a scan list (see “State Storage” on page 94).

•

Whenever a switch module is reset, all of the closed rela y channel s on the module will be open ed.

•

Whenever the instrument i s turned on or reset, all of the closed relay channels in the instrument will be opened.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Select a channel, press Open or Close. Select a slot, press and hold Card Reset to open all channels on the

selected module. Press Shift, then press and hold Card Reset to open all channels in

the instr um e n t.

•

Remote Interface Operation: The following commands open and close multiple channels on the modules in slots 1 and 2.

OUTPUT 709; “OPEN 101,102,207”

! Open multiple ch annels.

OUTPUT 709; “CRESET 1”

OUTPUT 709; “CLOSE 101,102,207”

! Open all channels on the

module in slot 1.

! Close multiple channels

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

The Agilent 3499A/B/C can scan switching channels, digital I/O bit channels, and stored channel setups in a scan list. When a scan starts, the first channel in a scan list is closed. The chan nel is then opened and the next channel in the list is closed. This process repeats for all channels in the scan list. You can sweep through a scan list more than once. You can also synchronize scanned channel closures with external measurement devices.

Rules for Scanning

•

A scan list must be specified before initiating a scan. One or more switching channels, digital I/O bit channels, and/or previously stored channel setups can be included in a scan list. The order of the channels in the scan list determines the order of the channels to be scanned.

•

If any plug-in module is installed or removed while the instrument is operating, the instrument will automatically perform a reset and the curren t sc an list is cl eared.

•

If a scan list contains a non-existing channel, the scan cannot be performed and an error will occu r.

•

If a scan list contains a channel on a digital I/O module that is not configured to handshake mode #1 or mode #2 (see page 86), the scan cannot b e perf orm e d and an err o r will occur.

•

If a mismatch between a stored channel setup in the scan list and the current hardware configuration is found, a scan cannot be performed and an error will occu r. W hen a stored se tup is inc lud e d in the scan list, the stored setup is recalled and the next channel in the scan list is switched.

•

When a scan is aborted, the channel last scanned before the interruption will remain closed. Aborting a scan does not affect the present scan configu rat i on. A scan cannot resume from where it is interrupted . T o initiate a new scan, the channels in the scan list will be scanned from the begin nin g of the scan list.

•

A scan list may contain up to 200 entries.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

Creati ng a Sc an List

Before initiating a scan, a scan list must be set up. The instrument scans the specified ch annels automatically i n the sam e ord e r of the scan list .

•

The scan list is automatically cleared whenever the instrument is turned off or reset. You can also clear the scan list by pressing Shift+S.List.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press S.List, the CONFIG annunciator will light. The display will show “ADD TO SCAN”. Press Enter to begin building the scan list. Select each desired channel and press Enter to add the channel to the scan list. As channels are added, an asterisk is shown in the display to indicate the channel is a part of the scan list.

ADD TO SCAN

Press S.List. Press Enter.

SELECT 101

SELECT

SELECT 203

•

Remote Interface Operation: You may use single channels, ra nges of channel, or stored setups in the scan list. Set up a scan list with one command as follows:

10 OUTPUT 709; “SLIST 100-109 20 FOR I = 1 to 10 30 OUTPUT 709; “STEP” 40 OUTPUT 709; “DELAY 20” 50 Next I

Note Stored states may be used in scan lists. Stored states are discussed in

more detail begin ning on page 94.

101

Select a channel to add.

Press Enter.

Select the next ch annel to add.

“! Create a scan list. ! Step through the scan list.

! Add 20 ms time delay.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

Config ur i n g a Sc an

You can use delay times to control a scan.

•

You can s pecify a delay time (from 0 to 99999.999 seconds, with 1 ms resolution) between when a channel is closed and when the next operation begins (and, if configured, a trigger out pulse is sent). The delay time can be set individually for each channel in the scan list, or one delay can be set for all channels in the scan list. Note that, even if the trigger source is set to IMMediate, the scan list will not advance until the delay time is met.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Use the S.List menu to set the scan delay time as shown below.

DELAY TIME

00000.0000 SECS

3499

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “DELAY 2000; CHAN 101”

Turn the knob to select DELAY TIME.

Press Enter.

Use arrow keys and knob to select the delay t i me. Press Enter.

Press S.List to exit the menu.

! Set a 2 second de la y time

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

Performing a Scan

Once you set up a scan list and configure the scan, the actual scan can be performed.

•

If a scan list contains a non-existing channel, the scan cannot be performed and an error will occu r.

•

If a scan list contains a channel on a digital I/O module that does not work in Mode #1 or Mode #2, the scan cannot be perform ed and an error will occur (see page 86 for more information about modes).

•

If a stored channel setup in the scan list does not match the current hardware configuration , the s can cannot be perform ed and an er ro r will occur.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press Scan Stop a scan in progress by pressing Shift+Scan. The last channel

closed in the scan list will remain closed. You cannot pause and then continue a scan. You must start the scan operation over.

Press Step to start and step through the chan nels in the s can li st, one channel at a time.

•

Remote Interface Operation: Use the STEP command to begin a scan. If you abort a scan in progress, the last channel closed in the scan list will remain closed. You cannot pause and then continue a scan. You must start the scan operation over.

OUTPUT 709; “STEP” !Step into the scan list.

to begin the scan operation.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

Using External Triggering

Two control lines are provided in the rear panel mini-DIN connector: external tr igg er i n and external trigger out. These lines can be used individually or combined to synchronize a scan list with an external instrument (such as a DMM). The figure below shows this connection. The 3499A/B/C can be c onfigured to output a trigger pul se t o notify the external inst rument whenever a channel is close d.

Agilent 3499B

VM Complete Out

(Ext.Trig.In)

•

In addition to the Ext.Trig.In and Ext.Trig.Out pair pro vided on the

(Ext.Trig.Out)

External DMM

Ext Trig In

rear panel of the mainframe, the EI (external increment) and CC (channel closed) pair on a 44474A module can also be used to synchronize. Specify either Slot 0 or the slot in which a 44474A module is installed to indicate whic h lines are to be u se d.

•

Both the built-in trigger lines and the EI/CC lines on the 44474A are TTL compatib l e .

•

Once enable d, the sele cted trig ge r-in line is immediately ready to accept the trigger signal from the external instrument. Enabling or disabling a trigger source from the front-panel sets both the trigger in and trig ge r out functions.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Scanning

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press Menu, use the knob to select “CONF EXT TRIG” and press Enter. Select either s l ot 0 (built-i n external trigger) or the slot where a 44474A is installed and press Enter. E nable or disable th e pai r of trigg e r lin es an d press Enter. Press the Menu key again to exit the menu.

Press S.List, select “CONFIG SCAN”, and configure the arm source or trigger source as either EXT or MIX.

•

Remote Interface Operation: The following code se gm e nt will set up the 3499A/B/C to synchronize with an external instrument.

OUTPUT 709; “DMODE 0,1,0,1”

! Enable a tri gger pulse on the

rear panel Min i DIN connector.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digital I/O Operation

Digital I/O Oper a tion

The digital input/output is well-suited for monitoring and controlling external devices. You may use the built-in digital I/O bits or port (on the rear panel), one or more digital I/O modules, or a multifunction modules with a DIO function. In the following context, multifunction modules refer to those with a DIO function.

•

The built-in digital I/O (control board) consists of four bits which can be operated either independently as four bit channels (numbered 091 through 094) or as one 4-bit port (numbered 090).

•

The plug-i n digital I/O modules and multifunction mod ules usually consist of several 8-, 16-, and/or 32-bit ports. These ports can be operated independently, which means one port can be used for outpu t operation, while others can be used f or input. However, all bits with in a same 8-bit port ar e dependent. If one bit of a port is used for input or output operation, t hen all other bits of the same port can only be used for the same operation.

Note For more information about a specific digital I/O module, refer to the

Agilent 3499A/B/C User’s Manual (shipped with the instrument) or visit www.agilent.com.

Digital I/O Conf ig u r a t io n

•

Parameters such as flow control mode, control line polarity (PCTL), flag line polarity (PFLG), and I/O direction line polarity, are all configured for the plug-in digital I/O modules and multifunction modules. However, these DO NOT apply to the built-in 4-bit digital I/O (on the rear panel).

•

The data line polarity of any 8-bit port (or the 4-bit built-in port) can be configured from the front-panel. However, using the remote interface, the data line polarity of any ports (8-, 16-, or 32-bit) can be configured.

•

Data display format of any 8-bit port, binary or decimal (default), can only be specified from the front-panel. Once specified, the format applies to all input and output operations on the same port.

•

When the instrument is turned on or reset, the handshake mode is set to Mode #1 and the polarities of all configured lines are positive. More information about handshak e modes is given s tarting on page 86.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digi tal I /O Operat i on

•

Front-Panel Operation: Select a digital I/O module and press Mode. “CONFIG DIO” is shown in the display. Press Enter to show the second-level menu and begin the configuration.

Note Be sure to select the module, not a port or bit. The options on this menu

are only available when the mod ule i s selected.

N2263A

CONFIG DIO

MODE 1

CONT POL POS 4

FLAG POL POS 4

I/O PO L P O S 4

Press Mode again to exit the menu. Configure a port. Select a digital I/O port, t hen press Mode, the

CONFIG annunciator lights up. When “DATA POLARITY” appears

in the display, press Enter to se t data line polarity and/or use the knob to select “DISP FORMAT” and press Enter to set data display format for the port.

Select a DIO module.

Press Mode.

Select flow control mode. Press Enter.

Select the control line polar ity. Press Enter.

Select th e flag line polarity. Press Enter.

Select the I/O direction line polarity. Press Enter.

DIN

DATA POLARITY 401

NEG POLARITY 401

401

DIN 401

DISP FORMAT 401

BINARY 401

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digital I/O Operation

•

Remote Interface Operation: Set the flow control parameters using the following 3488 command. This example assume a digital I/O module is installed in slot 4.

OUTPUT 709; “DMODE 4,1,0,1”

! Set the flow control to Mode

#1 and the polarity of all lines to default va lues.

About Flow Contro l Modes (Handshake)

Five flow control modes are available for Digital I/O operat i ons. Some modes use one or more of the three flow control lines: I/O Direction ,

Note The p o larity of the flow control li n es is assumed to be p ositiv e (the

PFLG, and PCTL. Select the flow control you need for your digital input/ output applications.

default) in the follo wing diagrams and discussio ns .

Mode Number

Handshake Mode Definition

1 Sta tic m ode #1 Default handshake mode. 2 Static mode #2 Read what was written.

Notes

3 Read or Write

and strobe

4 Read and write

strobe

5 Full h andshake If you set a port to this mode, you cannot use

If you set a port to this mode, you cannot use the port in a scan list.

the port in a scan list.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digi tal I /O Operat i on

Static Mode #1

Static Mode #1 is the default mode. In this mode, data is transferr ed statically, there is no read or write strobe pulses or handshaking. The I/O Direction line is active and indicates direction of transfer. This is shown in the following timing diagrams.

Write Operation (CLOSE, DWRITE, etc.)

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTION

t1 (>1ms )

DATA VALID

t1 = I/O inp ut to dat a

valid (1ms minimum)

Approximately 1 ms after the I/O direction line goes to a lo w state, the digit a l I/ O mo d ule takes control of the d a ta lines.

Read Operation (DREAD, etc.)

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTION

t1 t2

100µs150µs

DATA VALID

t1 = D a ta b us floated

(

t2 = I/O inp ut to da ta

100 µs after the 3499A/B/C is instructed to read the data lines, it releases control of the lines and the I/O direction line goes to a high state. 150 µs later the data is actually read (latched).

to I/O inp ut

100 µs minimum)

latched (150 µs

minimum)

Static Mode #2

Static Mode #2 acts just like Mode #1 except the output lines are not disabled du rin g an input operatio n. This means that if a p o rt i s written to and the n read from , the data read will be that which was just writ te n to it. It is possible, however, that external devices might load the lines and cause a false read.

Timing for the I/O direction line is as shown in Mode #1 for write operations. For read operations, t he I/O direction line does not change.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digital I/O Operation

Read or W rit e and Strobe Mo de #3

In this mode, the I/O d irection line is still used to ind icate direction of transfer (input or output) but the PCTL (Peripheral control) line is used to strobe the data.

During a write operation , where the 3499A/B/C writes the data to so m e external device, the s trobe p uls e sig nifies that the data on the 16 o r 32 data I/O lines is valid. This is shown in the following timing diagram.

Write Operation

STROBE (PCTL LINE)

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTIO N

1ms

DATA VALID

st320 µs

t1 = T i me fro m I/O li n e

low to o u tp ut e n ab le (1 ms minimum)

t2 = T ime from outp u t

ena b l e t o s t a r t o f

trobe (25 µs

minimum)

t3 = Strobe pulse width

(20 µs

A S t robe pulse signifies that the da t a on the data lines is valid. During a write operation , the device receiving the data is triggered by the strobe.

The Strobe pulse is used durin g a read operation to signify that the 3499A/B/C has completed the read operation. This is shown in the following diagram.

DATA VALID

t1 = T ime from outp u t

disable to I/O line high (100 µs m in)

t2 = T i me f r o m I /O l ine

hig h to star t of

Strobe (150 µs

minimum)

t3 = Strobe pulse w idth

(20 µs

Read Op eration

STROBE (PCTL LINE)

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTIO N

100

150 µst320 µs

minimum)

When used during a Read operation, the Strobe pulse signifies that the 3499A/B/C has latch e d (read ) the d ata from the da ta lines.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digi tal I /O Operat i on

Read and Write Strobe Mode #4

Read and Wr ite Strobe Mode #4 uses the I/O direction line as a Strobe pulse to indicate writing operations. T h e P CT L line is used to ind ic ate Read operations. It is thus similar to the R/W and Strobe Mode #3 except separate control lines are used for the Strobe pulses and there is no I/O direction line.

DATA LINES

W r it e O p e ra tio n

IO DIRECTION (WR)

DATA VALID

40 µst220 µs

t1 = Tim e from d ata

valid to write

Strobe

(40 µs minimum)

t2 = Strobe pulse w idth

(20 µs minimum)

The IO Direction line is used to indicate that the data is valid o n the data bus li ne s. IO Direction is used to trigger the receiving device.

DATA VALID

t1 = Time f rom output

disable to read

St r o b e ( 1 0 0

minimum)

t2 = Strobe pulse w idth

(20 µs minimum)

µs

Read O peration

DATA LINES

PCTL (RD) LINE

100 µst220 µs

As in Mode #3, the PCTL (RD) line is used to indicate to the sending device that the 3499A/B/C has latched (read) the data.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digital I/O Operation

Full Handshake Mode #5

Handshake Mode #5 provides a complete tw o wire h andshake with a data direction line. During write operations, the PCTL line indicates that output data is valid; during read operations, it indicates that the digital I/O module (i.e. N2263A) is “ready for data”. The PFLG line is used by the peripheral device to indic ate “ready for data” during wri te operati ons or “data val id” for read operations.

For this discussion, write operations mean the plug-in digital I/O module is controlling the data lines. Read operations mean external devices control the data lin es and the digital I/O module reads the data and controls the PCTL/RD line.

W rite Operation

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTION

PCTL LINE

PFLG L IN E

DATA VALID

mst240 µst330 µst440 µst535 µs

t1 = T i me f r o m I /O l ine

low to ch eck fo r PFLG low

(

1 ms minimum

t2 = Time from PFLG

low to d a ta v a lid

(40 µs minimum)

t3 = Time from data v a lid

to PCTL low (30 µs minimum)

t4 = Time from PCTL low

to check for PFLG high (40 µs minimum)

t5 = Time from PFLG

to PCTL high (35 µs minimum)

)

The complete handshaking sequence for Mode #5 is as follows: The 3499A/B/C checks to see if the rec ei ving device has set the P FLG line low, this ind ica tes the re ceiving device is ready to accept data. When PFLG is low, the 3499A/B/C sets the data on the data bus and sets PCTL low. The 3499A/B/C then waits for the receiving device to set PFLG high, indicating that it has latched the data. To com ple te the handshak e , the 3499A/B/C sets PCTL hig h.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digi tal I /O Operat i on

Read O peration

DATA LINES

I/O DIRECTION

PCTL LINE

PFLG LINE

100 µs

DATA VALID

45 µs

LATCHED

50 µst440 µst535 µs

t1 = T ime fro m outpu t

disable to I/O line high (100 µs minimum)

t2 = T i me from I /O line

high to check for

PFLG low (45 µs minimum)

t3 = Time from PFLG low

to ch eck for PC T L

low (50 µs minimum)

t4 = Time from PCTL low

to check PFLG high (40 µs minimum)

t5 = Time from PFLG

high to PCTL high and data latch ed

(35

µs

minimum)

As with the Write operation, the 3499A/B/C begins by testing PFLG for a low state, i ndicating that the data is valid. When PFLG is low, t he 3499A/B/C sets PCTL low and waits for PFLG to go high. Th e 3499 A/B/C will set PCTL high to indicate that it has completed the data read operation. Data on the data bus must remain valid until after the 3499A/B/C sets PCTL high .

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digital I/O Operation

Digital Inpu t Ope r at ion

•

From the fron t-p ane l, you can read dat a from the b uilt-in digital I/O bits/port (numbered 090 through 094) or any one of the 8-bit ports on a digital I/O module or multifunction module.

•

From the remote interface, you can read data from the ind ividual bit channels and 8-, 16 -, or 32-bit ports on a digital I/O module o r multifunction module, as well as from the built-in digital I/O bits/port (numbered 090 through 094).

•

Instrument reset will set all digital I/O ports in the instrument as input ports. Pressing Card Reset or issuing a RESET command will set all ports on the specified module as input ports (ports on other modules are not affected).

•

Front-Panel Operation: Select an 8-bit digital I/O port, press Rea d to read the data from the port. Th e dat a can be displayed as either decimal or binary (see page 33).

•

Remote Interface Operation: Use the following command to read an individual bit (bit 6) on a module in slot 4. A “0” (bit cleared) or a “1” (bit set) will be returned.

OUTPUT 709; “DREAD 402” ! Read data from Port 402. OUTPUT 709; “VIEW 403”

The range of possible returne d values is show n:

Parameter Decimal Range Hex range

BYTE 0 to 255 00

WORD -32768 to 32767 -8000h to 7FFF

LWORD

WORD values greater then 32767 and LWORD values greater then

for (2 complement form.

-1) are returned as negative numbers. These values are in 2’s

to (231 -1)

-2

! View a bit channel 4.

to FF

-80000000

to 7FFFFFFF

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Digi tal I /O Operat i on

Digital Output Op e r ation

•

From the fron t-p ane l, y ou can write da ta to t he built-in digital I/O bits/port (numbered 090 through 094) or any one of the 8-bit ports on a digital I/O module or multifunction module.

•

From the remote interface, you can write da ta to individual bit channels and 8-, 16 -, or 32-bit ports on a digital I/O module o r multifunction module, as well as to the built-in digital I/O bits/port (numbered 090 through 094).

•

Front-Panel Operation: Select an 8-bit port, press Write, the data from the last operation (read or write) will be displayed. Edit the data to the desired value and press Enter to write the data to the port. To cancel the write operation, press Write again instead of Enter. You can edit the data in either binary or decimal form (see page 33).

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “DWRITE 400,219” ! Write 219 to 16-bit Port 404. OUTPUT 709; “CLOSE 401,407,411”

! Close bit channels 401, 407,

and 411.

OUTPUT 709; “OPEN 403,405,407”

! Open bit channels 403, 405,

and 407.

WORD values greater then 32767 and LWORD values greater then

for (2 complement form.

-1) are sent as negative numbers. These values are in 2’s

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

State Storage

The 3499A/ B/C p rovides the capabilit y to s to re setups, and then reca ll them to put the instrume nt back into a known configuration. Information that can be stored includes:

•

Status of all relay channels (open or closed)

•

Status of digital I/O ports (input or output, flow control, etc.)

•

Remote inter f ace se ttin gs (ad dre ss , baud, etc.)

Additionally, you can include a stored state in a scan list as a channel.

Firmware Revi sion Differences

State storage behavior differ s depending upon the firmware revision of your 3499A/B/C (see page 55 ).

•

Firmware revision 1.0 must be upgraded. Please contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Office for details.

•

Firmware revisions 2.0 and 3.0 allow up to 10 states to be stored. Firmware revision 4.0 allows up to 40 stored states.

•

Stored states are lost if power is removed for firware revisions 2.0 or

3.0. Stored states are preserved when power is removed for firmware revision 4.0.

•

Storage memory lo cations ar e number ed 01 to 1 0 for Firmw a re revision 2.0 and 3.0. Memory locations are number 01 to 40 for Firmware revision 4.0.

•

Before recalling a stored setup, the instrument verifies that all module types and slot assignment match the setup. If a mismatch is detected, an error (“RECALL FAILED”) will occur.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

State Storage

Firmware Revi sion Differences (continued)

•

An instrument reset does not affect the stored instrument setup information .

•

All stored setups will be cleared if the system mode is changed (for example, to SCPI mode).

•

Firmware revision 3.0 allows i nstrument operation in either SCPI or 3488 mode, not both. The mode is selected when the firmware is loaded.

To Store an Inst rume nt State

Firmware revision 2.0 and 3.0 allow up to 10 stored states. Fi r mwa r e revision 4.0 allows up to 40 stored states. Set the instrument to the state you want to store.

•

Front-Panel Operation: To store an instrument setup, press Shift + Recall, select a memory location, a nd pres s Enter. To cancel the store operation, press Recall again instead of Enter.

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “STORE 4”

Note Approximately 1 second is required to store an instrument setup into an

Agilent 3499A/B/C with Firmw are REV 4.0. To avoid errors in when programming, be sure to allow a 1 second interval between the store and recall operations.

! Store an instrument setup

To Recall an Instrument State

You can recall a previously stored instrument setup.

•

Front-Panel Operation: To recall a stored setup, press Recall, select the memory location to be recalled, and press Enter. To cancel the recall operation, press Recall again instead of Enter.

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “RECALL 4”

! Recall the previously stored

channel setu p.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Error Conditions

When an error occurs, the 3499A/B/C will beep and the ERROR annunciator on the front-panel light s up. Th i s indicates one or more command syntax or ha rdware errors have been det e cted.

•

The error queue will be cleared automatically once you read the queue, change the system mode, send the RESET command, or cycle power on the instrument. However, a module reset will not clear t he error queue.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press View, select “ERROR”, and press Enter. The sum of the values of the possible error conditions i s

displayed (refer to “Error Messages” on page 135).

•

Remote Interface Operation: In 3488 mode, the sum of the values of the possible error conditions is recorded in the error queue. For example, the returned value of “0003” means that both “Syntax Error ” and “Exe cution Erro r” occurred ( refer to “E rror Messages” on page 135).

ERROR

! Query the error register.

Self-Test

The 3499A/B/C can perform a self-test to verify that it is in proper operation.

•

If the self-test is successful, “PASSED” will be displayed on the frontpanel. Otherwise , the reason of the failu re will be d isplayed. For details of all self-test failures, refer to “Self Test Errors” on page 136.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press Menu, use the knob to select “SELFTEST”, and press E nter to perform a self-test.

•

Remote Interface Operation:

TEST

! Returns zero if the test is

succes sf ul, or non-zero if it fails.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Display Control

You can turn off the 3499A/B/C display (for security or increased processing speed for example). Y ou c a n also write a message of up to 13 characters to th e fron t- pa nel disp lay .

Note The display cannot be turned off from the front-panel.

•

When the display is turned off, the entire front-panel display goes blank except for the ADRS and RMT annunciators (the ERROR annunciator will also be on if there are errors), and all keys except Local are locked.

•

If the display is turned off, pressing Local causes the instrument to return to loc al oper atio n, the d isp lay wi ll b e tu rn ed bac k on.

•

The display is automati cally turn ed on when power is cyc l ed, or after a RESET command.

•

When the display is on, you can send a message (up to 13 characters) to display on the front-panel from the remote interface. If you attempt to send more than 13 c har ac te rs, only th e first 1 3 char acters can be displayed. The characters can be letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9), and some special characters (“ ‘ space ( ) * + - , . : ; / \).

•

Remote Interface Operation:

OUTPUT 709; “DOFF” OUTPUT 709; “DON” OUTPUT 709; “DISP Scan finished.”

! Turn off the display. ! Turn on the display.

! Display the message on the

front panel.

Chapter 4 Features and Functions

Relay Cycle Counts

The Agilent 3499A/B/C can read and track the relay cycle counts on some plug-in modules. This feature can be very useful in switching systems to track relay failures and predict system maintenance requirements.

•

This feature is supported in 3488 Mode by the Agilent N2260A, N2261A, N2262A, N2264A, N2265A, N2266A, N2267A, N2268A, N2270A, and N2280A/81A modules.

•

The cycle counts of the tree relays (s98 & s99) on an N2260A or N2266A can also be que r ied.

•

Front-Panel Operation: Press View, use the knob to select “RELAY CYCLES”, and press Enter. Turn the knob to select the relay channel of interest. The display shows the channel cycle count.

•

Remote Interface Operation: This feature is only available from the front panel in 3488 mode.

Remote Interface Reference

This chapter describes 3488 mode commands applicable to th e Agilent 3499A/B/C Switc h/ Co ntr ol S yste m. T he chapter contents include :

•

Command Synt ax, on page 101

•

3488 Mode Command Qu ick Re ference, on page 102

•

3488 Mode Comm ands, on page 104

Note It is highly recommended that you use SCPI commands (in SCPI mode)

instead of 3488A commands (in 3488A mode). The SCPI commands allow you to use all the features of the Agilent 3499A/B/C and the plug-in modules. 3 488 mode com m an d s a re a subset and are provided for legacy installations.

100

Agilent 3488A User’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Agilent 3499A/B/C at a Glance

Plug-in Mo du les at a Glance

The Front Pane l at a G lance

The Rear Panel at a Glance

In This Book

Contents

To Prepare the Instrument for Use

If the Instrument Does Not Turn On

To Install a Module in the 3499A/B/C

Module Removal

Basic Operation

Channel Addressing

To Sele ct a Slot and Channel

To Open or Clo s e a C h annel

To Open All Channels on a Module

To Reset All Modules

To Rack Mount the 3499A/B/C

Agilent 34 99A

Agilent 34 99B

Filler Panels

Agilent 34 99C

To Power On the Instrument

To Select the System Mode

To Monitor a Chan nel or a Slot

To Use a Digital I/O Port

Readi ng a Digital I/O Po r t

Writing to a Digital I/O Port

To Configure a D ig ital I/O Mod ul e

To Configure a D I O Port

To View Instrument Errors

Scanning Operation

To Create a Scan List

To Perform Scanning

To Clear a Scan List

To View a Scan List

To Pair Two Modules Together

T o Configure for External Trigger

To Configure the Power-on State

To Configure the Remote Interface

GPIB Int e r face

To Perform a Self-test

To Query the Firmware Revision

To Query the Serial Number

Local/Remote Contro l

Agilent 3499A/B/C Switch/Contro l System

Mainframes Overview

Firmware and Control Module Description

3488 Mode Differences

Plug-in Modules Overview

MUX Modules

GP Modules

Matrix Modules

Digital I/O Mod ule s

Multifunction Modules

Opti ca l M odules

Channel and Slot Addressing

Factory Default and Reset States

Monitoring a Channel or a Slot

Switching a Relay Channel

Scanning

Rules for Scanning

Creati ng a Sc an List

Config ur i n g a Sc an

Performing a Scan

Using External Triggering

Digital I/O Operation

Digital I/O Conf ig u r a t io n

About Flow Contro l Modes (Handshake)

Digital Inpu t Ope r at ion

Digital Output Op e r ation

State Storage

Firmware Revi sion Differences

Firmware Revi sion Differences (continued)

To Store an Inst rume nt State

To Recall an Instrument State

Error Conditions