Agilent Technologies 87130A User Manual

87130A
Attenuator/Switch Driver

Operating and Service
Guide

Manual part number: 87130-90007
Printed in USA
August 2001
Supersedes: May 2000

Notice

The information contained in this document is subject to change without
notice.

Agilent Technologies makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this
material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent Technologies
shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or
consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or
use of this material.

Agilent Technologies assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of
its software on equipment that is not furnished by Agilent Technologies.

This document contains proprietary information that is protected by
copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be
photocopied, reproduced, published electronically, or translated to another
language without prior written consent of Agilent Technologies.

ESTRICTED RIGHTS LEGEND

R

Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical
Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013 for DOD
agencies, and subparagraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of the Commercial Computer
Software Restricted Rights clause at FAR 52.227-19 for other agencies.

Agilent Technologies, Inc.
1400 Fountaingrove Parkway
Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1799, U.S.A.

NOTE A serial number label is attached to the rear panel of each instrument. The

first six entries are the same for all identical modules; they only change
when a change in the electrical or physical functionality is made. The
remaining digits are assigned sequentially and are different for each
instrument.

This manual applies directly to instruments with the following prefix and
above:

US4018

© Copyright 2000, 2001 Agilent Technologies, Inc.

ii Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Warranty

Certification Agilent Technologies, Inc., certifies that this product met its published

specifications at the time of shipment from the factory. Agilent Technologies
further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the
United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST,
formerly NBS), to the extent allowed by the Institute’s calibration facility,
and to the calibration facilities of other International Standards
Organization members.

Warranty This Agilent Technologies system product is warranted against defects in

materials and workmanship for a period corresponding to the individual
warranty periods of its component products. Instruments are warranted for a
period of one year. During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will, at
its option, either repair or replace products that prove to be defective.

Warranty service for products installed by Agilent Technologies and certain
other products designated by Agilent Technologies will be performed at
Buyer’s facility at no charge within Agilent Technologies service travel
areas. Outside Agilent Technologies service travel areas, warranty service
will be performed at Buyer’s facility only upon Agilent Technologies’ prior
agreement and Buyer shall pay Agilent Technologies’ round trip travel
expenses. In all other areas, products must be returned to a service facility
designated by Agilent Technologies.

For products returned to Agilent Technologies for warranty service, Buyer
shall prepay shipping charges to Agilent Technologies and Agilent
Technologies shall pay shipping charges to return the product to Buyer.
However, Buyer shall pay all shipping charges, duties, and taxes for products
returned to Agilent Technologies from another country.

Agilent Technologies warrants that its software and firmware designated by
Agilent Technologies for use with an instrument will execute its
programming instructions when properly installed on that instrument.
Agilent Technologies does not warrant that the operation of the instrument,
or software, or firmware will be uninterrupted or error free.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY. The foregoing warranty shall not apply
to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by Buyer,
Buyer-supplied software or interfacing, unauthorized modification or
misuse, operation outside of the environmental specifications for the
product, or improper site preparation or maintenance.

NO OTHER WARRANTY IS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. AGILENT
TECHNOLOGIES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE IMPLIED

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual iii

WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES. THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE

BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES. AGILENT
TECHNOLOGIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT,
INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY
OTHER LEGAL THEORY.

YEAR 2000. Agilent Technologies warrants that each Agilent Technologies
hardware, software, and firmware product on Agilent Technologies’
Corporate Price List (dated July 1, 1998 or later) delivered under the
product’s contract of sale will be able to accurately process date data
(including, but not limited to, calculating, comparing, and sequencing) from,
into, and between the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, and the years
1999 and 2000, including leap year calculations, when used in accordance
with the product documentation provided that all other products (that is,
hardware, software, firmware) used in combination with such Agilent
Technologies product(s) properly exchange date data with it. If the
agreement requires that specific Agilent Technologies products must
perform as a system in accordance with the foregoing warranty, then that
warranty will apply to those Agilent Technologies products as a system, and
Customer retains sole responsibility to ensure the year 2000 readiness of its
information technology and business environment. The duration of this
warranty extends through January 31, 2001.

The remedies available under this warranty will be defined in, and subject to,
the terms and limitations of the warranties contained in the contract of sale.
To the extent permitted by local law, this warranty applies only to branded
Agilent Technologies products and not to products manufacture by others
that may be sold or distributed by Agilent Technologies. Nothing in this
warranty will be construed to limit any rights or remedies provided
elsewhere in the contract of sale with respect to matters other than year 2000
compliance.

Assistance Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance agreements

are available for Agilent Technologies products.

For assistance, call your local Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Office
(refer to “Service and Support” on page v).

iv Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Service and Support

Any adjustment, maintenance, or repair of this product must be performed
by qualified personnel. Contact your customer engineer through your local
Agilent Technologies Service Center. You can find a list of local service
representatives on the Web at:

If you do not have access to the Internet, one of these centers can direct you
to your nearest representative:

www.agilent.com/find/assist

United States

(tel) 1 800 452 4844

New Zealand

(tel) 0 800 738 378
(fax) ([phone]

Latin America

(tel) [phone]
(fax) [phone]

Japan

(tel) ([phone]
(fax) ([phone]

Canada

(tel) 1 877 894 4414
(fax) [phone]

Australia

(tel) 1 800 629 485
(fax) ([phone]

Asia Call Center Numbers

Country Phone Number Fax Number

Singapore 1-800-375-8100 (65) 836-0252

Malaysia 1-800-828-848 1-800-801664

Philippines (632) 8426802

1-800-16510170 (PLDT Subscriber Only)

Thailand [phone] (outside Bangkok)

[phone] (within Bangkok)

Hong Kong 800-930-871 (852) 2506 9233

Taiwan 0800-047-866 (886) 2 25456723

(632) 8426809
1-800-16510288 (PLDT
Subscriber Only)

(66) 1-661-3714

Europe

(tel) ([phone]
(fax) ([phone]

People’s Republic of
China

India 1-600-11-2929 000-800-650-1101

800-810-0189 (preferred)
10800-650-0021

10800-650-0121

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual v

Safety and Regulatory Information

Review this product and related documentation to familiarize yourself with
safety markings and instructions before you operate the instrument. This
product has been designed and tested in accordance with international
standards.

WARNING The WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating

procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to,

could result in personal injury or death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING

notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

CAUTION The CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating

procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not
proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.

Instrument Markings

When you see this symbol on your instrument, you should refer to the instrument’s

instruction manual for important information.

!

This symbol indicates hazardous voltages.

The laser radiation symbol is marked on products that have a laser output.

This symbol indicates that the instrument requires alternating current (ac) input.

The CE mark is a registered trademark of the European Community. If it is

accompanied by a year, it indicates the year the design was proven.

The CSA mark is a registered trademark of the Canadian Standards Association.

The C-tick mark is a registered trademark of the Spectrum Management Agency

of Australia. This signifies compliance with the Australian EMC Framework

regulations under the terms of the Radio communications Act of 1992.

1SM1-A This text indicates that the instrument is an Industrial Scientific and Medical Group

1 Class A product (CISPER 11, Clause 4).

vi Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Safety Earth
Ground

This is a Safety Class I product (provided with a protective earthing
terminal). An uninterruptible safety earth ground must be provided from the
main power source to the product input wiring terminals, power cord, or
supplied power cord set. Whenever it is likely that the protection has been
impaired, the product must be made inoperative and secured against any
unintended operation.

Before Applying Power Verify that the product is configured to match the available main power

source as described in the input power configuration instructions in this
manual. If this product is to be powered by autotransformer, make sure the
common terminal is connected to the neutral (grounded) side of the ac power
supply.

OMPLIANCE WITH GERMAN NOISE REQUIREMENTS

C

This is to declare that this instrument is in conformance with the German
Regulation on Noise Declaration for Machines (Laermangabe nach der
Maschinenlaermrerordnung-3.GSGV Deutschland).

Acoustic Noise Emmision/Geraeuschemission

LpA <70 dB LpA <70 dB

Operator position am Arbeitsplatz

Normal position normaler Betrieb

per ISO 7779 nach DIN 45635 t.19

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual vii

WARNING

General Safety Considerations

• This product has been designed and tested in accordance with IEC

Publication 1010, Safety Requirements for Electronic Measuring

Apparatus, and has been supplied in a safe condition. The instruction

documentation contains information and warnings which must be

followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to maintain the product

in a safe condition.

• This is a Safety Class 1 Product provided with a protective earthing

ground incorporated in the power cord. The mains plug shall only be

inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact. Any

interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside of the product is

likely to make the product dangerous. Intentional interruption is

prohibited.

• The ON/OFF switch or the detachable power cord is the instrument

disconnecting device. It disconnects the mains circuits from the mains

supply before other parts of the instrument. Alternately, an externally

installed switch or circuit breaker, which is readily identifiable and is easily

reached by the operator, may be used as a disconnecting device.

WARNING

• This product is designed for use in Installation Category and Pollution

Degree 2 per IEC 1010 and 664 respectively.

• Install the instrument according to the enclosure protection provided. This

instrument protects against finger access to hazardous parts within the

enclosure. The instrument does not protect against the ingress of water.

• If this product is not used as specified, the protection provided by the

equipment could be impaired. This product must be used in a normal

condition (in which all means for protection are intact) only.

• When installing the product in a cabinet, the convection into and out of the

product must not be restricted. The ambient temperature (outside the

cabinet) must be less than the maximum operating temperature of the

product by 4

power dissipated in the cabinet is greater than 800 watts forced

convection must be used.

°

C for every 100 watts dissipated in the cabinet. If the total

viii Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual ix

Typeface Conventions

Italics • Used to emphasize important information:

Use this software only with the 87130A.

• Used for the title of a publication:

Refer to the Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual.

• Used to indicate a variable:

LOAD BIN filename.

Type

Instrument Display • Used to show on-screen prompts and messages that you will see on the

display of an instrument:

The 87130A will display the message

[Keycap] • Used for labeled keys on the front panel of an instrument or on a

computer keyboard:

[Return].

Press

{Softkey} • Used for simulated keys that appear on an instrument display:

{Prior Menu}.

Press

CAL1 SAVED.

User Entry • Used to indicate text that you will enter using the computer keyboard;

text shown in this typeface must be typed exactly as printed:

LOAD PARMFILE

Type

• Used for examples of programming code:

#endif // ifndef NO_CLASS

Path Name • Used for a subdirectory name or file path:

Edit the file

Computer Display • Used to show messages, prompts, and window labels that appear on a

usr/local/bin/sample.txt

computer monitor:

Edit Parameters window will appear on the screen.

The

• Used for menus, lists, dialog boxes, and button boxes on a computer

monitor from which you make selections using the mouse or keyboard:

Double-click

EXIT to quit the program.

x Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Contents

1. Introducing the 87130A
Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Figure 1-1. 87130A Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Drive Pulse and Sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Compatible Switches and Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Table 1-1. Compatible Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Table 1-2. Compatible Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Figure 1-2. 87130A Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Unpacking Your Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Table 1-3. 87130A Package Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Determining Your Module Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Environmental Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Figure 1-3. Packaging Materials for the 87130A Switch Driver . . . 1-7

Before Installing the Attenuator/Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Figure 1-4. Static-Safe Work Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Reducing ESD Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Table 1-4. Static-Safe ESD Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Returning Your Instrument for Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

2. Installing the 87130A
Attenuator/Switch Driver

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Initial Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Preparing for Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

GPIB Addressing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Figure 2-1. 87130A GPIB Address Switch (Default 9 shown) . . . . . 2-3

Connecting Switch Drivers to Switches and Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Driver Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Using the Internal Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Figure 2-2. Typical Operating Setup Using Internal Driver . . . . . . . 2-4

Using External Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Figure 2-3. Typical Operating Setup Using External Drivers . . . . . 2-5

Figure 2-4. 84940A External Driver Card with Prefixes Prior to US4016

2-6

Figure 2-5. 84940A External Driver Card with Prefixes US4016 and

Above . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Wiring Channel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Figure 2-6. Typical Single Switch Channel Connector . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Connecting Multiple Driver Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual Contents-1

Figure 2-7. Daisy Chain of Driver Cards in Single Enclosure . . . . 2-8

Figure 2-8. Daisy Chain of Driver Cards in Different Enclosures . 2-8

Connecting Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Figure 2-9. Typical Attenuator Cables Connected to an 84940A . . 2-9

Optimizing Switching Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Table 2-1. Relay Drive Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Driver Card Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Figure 2-10. Eight Driver Card Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Driver Cable and Switch Cable Length Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Pin Functions for 36-Pin I/O Data Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Table 2-2. Standard 36-Pin (Male) SCSI II Type Connector Pin

Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Pin Functions for 68-pin Driver Output Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Table 2-3. Rear Panel 68-Pin (Female) SCSI II Type Connector Pin

Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

3. Specifications

Performance Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Table 3-1. 87130A Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Table 3-2. 87130A Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

4. Remote Operation

Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Standard Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Programming Syntax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Talking to the Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Programming Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Addressing the Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Program Message Syntax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Program Header Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Program Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Program Message Terminator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Query Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Programming the Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Setting Up the Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Receiving Information from the Switch Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

String Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Instrument Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Common Commands Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Table 4-1. IEEE 488.2 Common Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

*CLS (Clear Status) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

*ESE (Event Status Enable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Table 4-2. Event Status Enable Register Bit Definitions . . . . . . . . 4-14

*ESR? (Event Status Register Query) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Table 4-3. Event Status Register Bit Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Contents-2 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

*IDN (Identification Number) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

*OPC (Operation Complete) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17

*RST (Reset) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

*SRE (Request Enable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Table 4-4. Service Request Enable Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

*STB (Status Byte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20

Table 4-5. Status Byte Bit Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20

*TST? (Test) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21

*WAI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22

Hierarchy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Table 4-6. Command Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

SCPI Command Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

Channel Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

SCPI Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

:ADD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

:AUTOselect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28

:CATalog? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29

:CLOSe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30

:CYCLes? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33

:DEFine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34

:DELay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36

:DELete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38

:DRIVe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-40

:EERom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-42

:ERRor? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-43

:FREE? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-46

:GROUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-47

:INITialize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-48

:LABel[?] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-49

MEMory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-50

:NAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-51

:OPEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-52

:PATH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-55

:PFAil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-56

:REMove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-57

ROUTe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-58

:SAVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-59

STATus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-60

SYSTem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-61

TRIGger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-62

:VALue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-63

:VERify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-64

:VERsion? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-66

:WIDTh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-67

Example Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-68

Example Speed Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-74

Table 4-7. Relay Drive Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-74

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual Contents-3

Figure 4-1. Timing Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-77

5. Replaceable Parts

Accessory Boards and Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Table 5-1. Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Firmware Revisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Table 5-2. Replaceable Parts - 87130A Chassis Assembly (1) . . . 5-14

Figure 5-1. 87130A Chassis Assembly (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

Table 5-3. Replaceable Parts - 87130A Chassis Assembly (2) . . . 5-16

Figure 5-2. 87130A Chassis Assembly (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

Table 5-4. Replaceable Parts - 87130A Cable Assembly . . . . . . . . 5-18

Figure 5-3. 87130A Cable Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19

6. Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Figure 6-1. 87130A DC Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Fuse and Power Supply Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Fuse Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Figure 6-2. Power Supply Test Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Power Supply Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Procedure for Setting Up the EPROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

Contents-4 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

1 Introducing the 87130A

Attenuator/Switch Driver

Overview In this chapter you will find:

• Function, features, and capabilities of the

87130A attenuator/switch driver

• How to unpack and check your instrument

• How to set up a static-free workstation

• How to contact Agilent Technologies for service

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 1-1

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver

The Agilent 87130A attenuator/switch driver is a GPIB compatible
instrument designed to drive electromechanical switches and step
attenuators.

• The standard instrument has a single internal driver board capable of

driving up to 31 SPDT switches, or combinations of SPDT and
multithrow switches.

• The attenuator/switch driver may be externally connected to a maximum

of seven 84940A driver boards and can control and sense switching for
up to 248 switches.

The block diagram is shown below. Refer to Figure 6-1 on page 6-3 for a
detailed DC Schematic.

Figure 1-1 87130A Block Diagram

1-2 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Drive Pulse and Sensing

The attenuator/switch driver can deliver 500 mA, 24 Vdc current pulses to
31 individual switch sections and up to a total of 248 switch sections by the
addition of external 84940A driver boards (or driver boards inside externally
connected equipment such as switch matrixes). These low impedance pulses
can be adjusted for pulse width in order to optimize switching speed. Pulse
width and sensing delay can be set from 0.005 to 1.275 seconds.

Sensing Disabled

Each switch coil is internally connected to the + 24 V bias supply. A power
transistor on the driver board supplies the ground that will activate the switch
coil. The controller assembly actuates the transistor for a predetermined time
that is set by the :WIDTh command. (Refer to “:WIDTh” on page 4-67.) The
default setting is 30 ms.

Sensing Enabled

For switches that can be sensed, the switch coil is internally connected to the
+ 24 V bias supply via a dc switch that removes the bias from the activated
coil after the switch has changed position and applies the bias to the opposite
coil. By monitoring the presence of this bias through the opposite coil, the
switch controller can determine the switch position.

After the initial 30 ms closure pulse, an additional 20 ms time is allowed for
the sense lines to settle. At this time an error and a programmed position
check are performed.

The power supply allows the switch driver four switching operations at the
same time. This means that at the default setting, seven groups of four
switches and one group of three switches will each take 50 ms to switch and
verify. This results in a default switching speed of 0.4 seconds for 31 relays
with sensing enabled. Refer to “Example Speed Calculation” on page 4-74
for more information.

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 1-3

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Compatible Switches and Attenuators

The attenuator/ switch driver is designed to drive Agilent switches and
attenuators shown in the tables below.

NOTE If you are using switches or attenuators made by another company, check

their switching characteristic against those specified in Chapter 3,
“Specifications”.

All Agilent switches and attenuators have internal clamp diodes to limit
reverse EMF energy from the switch solenoid. If other switches are used,
this energy must be limited to less than 10 millijoules to prevent damage to
the switch driver circuit.

Table 1-1 Compatible Switches

Agilent Model Number Description Agilent Model Number Description

33311A,B,C,D Terminated SPDT 8765A,B,C,F (Opt 024) Unterminated SPDT*

33312A,B,C Terminated transfer 8766K SP3T

33313A,B,C 5 port switch 8767K SP4T

33314A,B,C,D (Opt 024) Unterminated SPDT* 8768K SP5T

33363K SP3T 8769K SP6T

33364K SP4T 87104A,B,C SP4T*

33365K SP5T 87106 A,B,C SP6T*

33366K SP6T 87204A,B,C SP4T

8762A,B,C,F Terminated SPDT 87206A,B,C SP6T

8763A,B,C,F Terminated transfer 87222C,D,E Transfer switch

8764A,B,C,F 5 port switch 87606B Matrix switch

* No position verification

Table 1-2 Compatible Attenuators

Agilent Model Number Description Agilent Model Number Description

33320G,H 11 dB, 1 dB steps 8494G,H 11 dB, 1 dB steps

33321G,H,K 70 dB, 10 dB steps 8495G,H,K 70 dB, 10 dB steps

33322G,H 110 dB, 10 dB steps 8496G,H 110 dB, 10 dB steps

33323K 90 dB, 10 dB steps 8497K 90 dB, 10 dB steps

33324K,L 11 dB, 1 dB steps 84904K,L 11 dB, 1 dB steps

33326K,L 90 dB, 10 dB steps 84906K,L 90 dB, 10 dB steps

33327K,L 70 dB, 10 dB steps 84907K,L 70 dB, 10 dB steps

1-4 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Features of the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Front Panel Features The front panel LEDs indicate the status of the 87130A attenuator/switch

driver. The front-panel LEDs should turn on and off while the switch driver
is performing the self-test (for example, at turn-on).

If the ERROR LED lights at any time other than during self test, an error
condition exists in the switch matrix. The switch driver ERROR light
indicates it is ready to report one or more error codes. The error codes may
be viewed by using the
GPIB command “:ERRor?” on page 4-43 for more information.

:ERRor? command from a controller. Refer to the

Figure 1-2 87130A Front Panel Features

The user may remotely set the SRQ (service request) state to take place
under certain conditions, (for example: completion of an operation or if an
error condition occurs). The SRQ LED will only be lit during self test, when
it is turned on and off to test the LED.

The other LEDs, RMT (remote), LSN (listen), TLK (talk), and
SWITCHING indicate the normal functioning of the switch driver and do
not indicate an error condition.

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 1-5

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Unpacking Your Instrument

Unpacking Your Instrument

Unpack and inspect the shipping container and its contents thoroughly to
ensure that nothing was damaged during shipment. If the shipping container
or cushioning material is damaged, the contents should be checked both
mechanically and electrically.

WARNING To avoid hazardous electrical shock, do not perform electrical tests when there

are signs of shipping damage to any portion of the outer enclosure (covers,

panels, connectors.)

Table 1-3 87130A Package Contents

Description Quantity Part Number

Determining Your Module Serial Number

Switch driver 1 87130A

Operating and Service Manual 1 87130-90007

Cable, 68-pin to 68-pin SCSI II, 6 ft. 1 70611-60004

❍ If the shipping container is damaged, or the cushioning material

shows signs of stress, notify the carrier as well as Agilent
Technologies. Keep the shipping material for the carrier’s
inspection. Refer to Figure 1-3.

❍ If the contents are damaged or defective, contact your nearest

Service Center listed under “Service and Support” on page v.
Agilent will arrange for repair or replacement of the damaged or
defective equipment. Always refer to your instrument by its full
model number and serial number.

A serial number is attached to a label on the rear panel of the module. The
first six entries are the same for all identical modules; they only change
when a change in the electrical or physical functionality is made. The
remaining entries change sequentially and are different for each module.

Environmental Limitations

The instrument should be stored in a clean, dry environment. The following
environmental limitations apply to both shipment and storage:

Temperature

− 40 to + 70° C

Humidity < 95% relative

Altitude < 15300 meters (50,000 feet)

1-6 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Unpacking Your Instrument

Figure 1-3 Packaging Materials for the 87130A Switch Driver

Item Quantity Part Number Description

1 1 9211-6365 Outer carton

2 1 5181-5515 Foam Insert

3 Foam insert (Part of item 2.)

4 1 5181-5535 Spacer

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 1-7

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Before Installing the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Before Installing the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy electronic components.
All work performed on assemblies consisting of electronic components
should be done at a static-safe workstation.

An example of a static-safe work station is shown below using two types of
ESD protection:

• conductive table mat and wrist strap combination, and

• conductive floor mat and heel strap combination

These methods may be used together or separately. A list of static-safe
accessories and their part numbers is given on the following page.

Figure 1-4 Static-Safe Work Station

1-8 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Before Installing the Attenuator/Switch Driver

Reducing ESD Damage

To help reduce the amount of ESD damage that occurs during installation,
testing, or servicing instruments use the following guidelines:

• Be sure that all instruments are properly earth-grounded to prevent

buildup of static charge.

• Personnel should be grounded with a resistor-isolated wrist strap before

touching the center pin of any connector and before removing any

assembly from the instrument.

• Before connecting any coaxial cable to an instrument connector for the

first time each day, momentarily ground the center and outer conductors

of the cable.

• Handle all PC board assemblies and electronic components only at

static-safe work stations.

• Store or transport PC board assemblies and electronic components in

static-shielding containers.

• PC board assembly edge-connector contacts may be cleaned by using a

lintfree cloth with a solution of 80% electronics-grade isopropyl alcohol

and 20% deionized water. This procedure should be performed at a

static-safe work station.

Table 1-4 Static-Safe ESD Accessories

Part Number Description

9300-0797 Set includes:

3M static control mat 0.6 m x 1.2 m (2 ft x 4 ft) and 4.6 m (15 ft)

ground wire. (The wrist-strap and wrist-strap cord are not included.

They must be ordered separately.)

9300-0865 Ground wire, 4.6 m (15 ft)

9300-0980 Wrist-strap cord 1.5 m (5 ft)

9300-1367 Wrist-strap, color black, stainless steel, without cord, has four

adjustable links and a 7 mm post-type connection.

9300-1308 ESD heel-strap (reusable 6 to 12 months)

Order the above by calling an Agilent Sales and Service Office.

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 1-9

Introducing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Returning Your Instrument for Service

Returning Your Instrument for Service

To obtain servicing information or to order replacement parts, contact your
nearest Agilent Technologies Service Center listed under “Service and

Support” on page v.

Use the following procedure to return your instrument to Agilent for service:

1. Fill out a service tag and attach it to the instrument. Please be as specific
as possible about the nature of the problem.

CAUTION

Damage can result if the original packaging materials are not used.
Packaging materials should be anti-static and should cushion the instrument
on all sides.

Never use styrene pellets in any shape as packaging materials. They do not
adequately cushion the instrument or prevent it from moving in the shipping
container. Styrene pellets can also cause equipment damage by generating
static electricity or by lodging in fan motors.

2. Place the switch driver in its original packaging materials.

If the original packaging materials are not available, you can contact an
Agilent sales and service office to obtain information on packaging
materials or you may use an alternative packing material referred to as
“bubble-pack”.

Surround the module with at least 3 to 4 inches of its original packing
material or bubble-pack to prevent it from moving in its shipping
container.

3. Place the switch driver after wrapping it with packing material, in its
original shipping container or a strong shipping container that is made of
double-walled corrugated cardboard with 159 kg (350 lb) bursting
strength.

The shipping container must be both large enough and strong enough to
accommodate your module and allow at least 3 to 4 inches on all sides
for packing material.

4. Seal the shipping container securely with strong nylon adhesive tape.

5. Mark the shipping container “Fragile, Handle with Care” to help ensure
careful handling.

6. Retain copies of all shipping papers.

1-10 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

2 Installing the 87130A

Attenuator/Switch Driver

Overview In this chapter you will learn about:

• How to install your switch driver

• How to verify its basic functionality

• How to address your instrument

• How to connect it to a switch matrix

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 2-1

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Getting Started

Getting Started

Initial Inspection 1. Unpack and inspect the shipping container and its contents thoroughly to

ensure that nothing was damaged during shipment. If the shipping
container or cushioning material is damaged, the contents should be
checked both mechanically and electrically. A procedure for checking
the electrical performance is given in Chapter 4, Verification.

❍ If the shipping container is damaged, or the cushioning material

shows signs of stress, notify the carrier as well as Agilent
Technologies. Keep the shipping material for the carrier’s
inspection. Refer to Figure 1-3.

❍ If the contents are damaged or defective, contact your nearest

Service Center listed under “Service and Support” on page v.
Agilent will arrange for repair or replacement of the damaged or
defective equipment.

Preparing for Use 2. Use the following properties of the attenuator/switch driver to plan your

system configuration.

Power requirements

The internal power supply adjusts automatically to the input line voltage.
See table 3-2 on page 3-3 for additional information.

Power cord

In accordance with international safety standards, a three-wire power cable
is provided with this instrument. When it is connected to an appropriate ac
power receptacle, this cable grounds the instrument cabinet. The type of
power cable plug shipped with each instrument depends on the country of
destination.

Fuses

The 87130A is shipped with a 3A fuse (F3) installed in the + 24 Vdc line and
a 3A fuse (F2) in the + 5 Vdc line. The 1 A, 250 V power line fuse is located
inside the AC input module.

2-2 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Getting Started

GPIB Addressing 3. Use the five-bit binary address switches located on the rear panel of the

instrument to change the GPIB address.

❍ The 87130A has a factory preset address of 9. There are 32 possible

addresses. The switch labeled with a one is the least significant bit.

❍ Addresses 0 and 31 are typically reserved for GPIB functions and

should not be used. IEEE-488.1 limits the number of addressable
elements (instruments) to 16.

Figure 2-1 87130A GPIB Address Switch (Default 9 shown)

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 2-3

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Connecting Switch Drivers to Switches and Attenuators

Connecting Switch Drivers to Switches and

Attenuators

Driver Boards The standard 87130A attenuator/switch driver has a single internal driver

board capable of driving 31 switches. The attenuator/switch driver may also
be connected to a maximum of seven external 84940A driver board which
can control and sense switching states for up to 217 additional switches.

The internal driver card is terminated with a 68-pin SCSI II type connector
for connecting external switches. The 84941A distribution board should be
used to connect the switch driver to switches and attenuators.

❍ The distribution board has 31 4-pin black output connectors

numbered J1 to J31 (silkscreened on the circuit side of the PCA), in
addition to 31 mating cables which allow a cable harness to be
quickly assembled to connect to relays. Refer to Figure 2-6 for pin
wiring that determines an OPEN or CLOSE condition on each
switch.

❍ Each relay (switch) is referred to as a channel by the switch driver.

Each channel has its own unique address. The switch driver begins
numbering channels at 0 instead of 1. Switch one, wired to J1 on
driver card 1, would have a channel address of 100.

Using the Internal Driver

Figure 2-2 Typical Operating Setup Using Internal Driver

1. Connect the internal driver board of the switch driver which is
terminated with a 68-pin SCSI II type connector (driver output) to an
84941A distribution board. Use the six foot cable with two male 68-pin
SCSI II type connectors that is shipped with the 87130A.

2-4 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Connecting Switch Drivers to Switches and Attenuators

Using External Drivers A standard switch driver can control up to seven external 84940A driver

cards.

❍ Each driver card has 31 4-pin black output connectors numbered J1

to J31 (silkscreened on the circuit side of the PCA) which connect to
relays.

❍ Each relay is referred to as a channel by the switch driver. Therefore,

there are a total of 248 relays (channels) that can be driven from a
single switch driver.

❍ Each card must have a unique address. (Refer to Figure 2-10). The

internal driver card is set to card 1. On card 1, J1 to J31 correspond
to channels 100 to 130 on your switch driver channel menu. Card 2
would correspond to channels 200 to 230; card 3, 300 to 330, and so
forth up to card 8, 800 to 830. All of these channels are set with the
drive enabled.

Figure 2-3 Typical Operating Setup Using External Drivers

Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual 2-5

Installing the 87130A Attenuator/Switch Driver

Connecting Switch Drivers to Switches and Attenuators

CAUTION

Do not connect or disconnect relays from 84940A external driver cards with
prefixes prior to US4016 while the attenuator/switch driver line switch is
turned on. An unintentional short between the + 24 V wire and the driver
outputs may result in a catastrophic driver board failure.

Although these driver cards will function properly when driven by the
87130A, they are only specified to 800 mA maximum per group of four
relays (200 mA per relay section); however, the + 24 V power supply from
the 87130A provides 3 A of dc current.

Break-Off Section

Figure 2-4 84940A External Driver Card with Prefixes Prior to US4016

Figure 2-5 84940A External Driver Card with Prefixes US4016 and Above

The 84940A driver board includes the following items:

Description Quantity Part Number

Driver board 1 84940A

Cable, 36-pin to 36-pin SCSI, female to female, 5 feet, 28 AWG 1 70611-60010

Cable, 34-pin to 36-pin SCSI, 18 inches, 28 AWG 1 70611-60011

Ribbon cable kit, 36-pin to 34-pin, 6 feet, 28 AWG 1 70611-60013

2-6 Agilent 87130A Operating and Service Manual