Agilent Technologies
System DC Power Supply
Series N8
User’s Guide
700
Legal Notices
© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2009
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Manual Editions
Manual Part Number: N8700-90001
Edition 2, July 2009
Printed in Malaysia.
Reprints of this manual containing minor
corrections and updates may have the
same printing date. Revised editions are
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in domestic household waste.
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equipment types in the WEEE directive
Annex 1, this product is classified as
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Agilent Technologies certifies that this
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2 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Safety Notices
Both direct and alternating
current
current
equipment
equipment.
ac mains when switch is off
switch
push switch
Caution, risk of electric shock
documents
CAUTION
WARNING
The following general safety precautions
must be observed during all phases of
operation of this instrument. Failure to
comply with these precautions or with
specific warnings or instructions
elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards of design, manufacture, and
intended use of the instrument. Agilent
Technologies assumes no liability for the
customer's failure to comply with these
requirements.
General
Do not use this product in any manner
not specified by the manufacturer. The
protective features of this product may be
impaired if it is used in a manner not
specified in the operation instructions.
Before Applying Power
Verify that all safety precautions are
taken. Make all connections to the unit
before applying power. Note the
instrument's external markings described
under "Safety Symbols"
Ground the Instrument
This product is a Safety Class I
instrument (provided with a protective
earth terminal). To minimize shock
hazard, the instrument chassis and cover
must be connected to an electrical
ground. The instrument must be
connected to the ac power mains through
a grounded power cable, with the ground
wire firmly connected to an electrical
ground (safety ground) at the power
outlet. Any interruption of the protective
(grounding) conductor or disconnection of
the protective earth terminal will cause a
potential shock hazard that could result in
personal injury.
Fuses
The instrument contains an internal fuse,
which is not customer accessible.
Do Not Operate in an Explosive
Atmosphere
Do not operate the instrument in the
presence of flammable gases or fumes.
Do Not Remove the Instrument
Cover
Only qualified, service-trained personnel
who are aware of the hazards involved
should remove instrument covers. Always
disconnect the power cable and any
external circuits before removing the
instrument cover.
Do Not Modify the Instrument
Do not install substitute parts or perform
any unauthorized modification to the
product. Return the product to an Agilent
Sales and Service Office for service and
repair to ensure that safety features are
maintained.
In Case of Damage
Instruments that appear damaged or
defective should be made inoperative and
secured against unintended operation
until they can be repaired by qualified
service personnel
A 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.
A 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.
Safety Symbols
Direct current
Alternating current
Three phase alternating
Earth (ground) terminal
Protective earth ground
terminal.
Frame or chassis terminal
Terminal is at earth potential.
Neutral conductor on
permanently installed
Line conductor on
permanently installed
On supply
Off supply
Standby supply. Unit is not
completely disconnected from
In position of a bi-stable push
Out position of a bi-stable
Caution, hot surface
Caution, refer to
accompanying
Do not dispose in domestic
household waste.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 3
In this Book
This User’s Manual contains the operating instructions, installation
instructions, and specifications of the Agilent Technologies Series
N8700 3.3kW and 5kW System DC Power Supplies. Specific chapters
in this manual contain the following information:
Quick Reference – Chapter 1 is a quick reference section that
helps you quickly become familiar with your Agilent N8700
power supply.
Installation – Chapter 2 describes how to install your power
supply. It describes how to connect various loads to the output. It
discusses remote sensing as well as parallel and series operation.
Operating the Power Supply Locally – Chapter 3 describes how to
operate the power supply from the front panel and from the
analog connector on the rear panel. It also includes a turn-on
check-out procedure to verify the unit is operating properly.
Operating the Power Supply Remotely – Chapter 4 describes how
to configure the remote interfaces. It also gives a brief overview
of the SCPI command structure and basic programming concepts.
Language Reference – Chapter 5 describes all of the SCPI
programming commands.
Programming Examples – Chapter 6 provides Visual BASIC
example programs that illustrate some common applications.
NOTE
Specifications – Appendix A describes specifications and
supplemental characteristics.
Verification and Calibration Procedures – Appendix B explains
the verification and calibration procedures.
Service – Appendix C describes what to do if your unit requires
service.
Compatibility – Appendix D documents the compatibility
commands of the Agilent 603xA power supplies that are
supported by the Agilent N8700 power supplies.
You can contact Agilent Technologies at one of the following telephone
numbers for warranty, service, or technical support information.
In the United States: (800) 829-4444
In Europe: 31 20 547 2111
In Japan: 0120-421-345
Or use our Web link for information on contacting Agilent in your country or
specific location:
www.agilent.com/find/assist
Or contact your Agilent Technologies Representative.
The web contains the most up to date version of the manual. Go to
http://www.agilent.com/find/N8700 to get the latest version of the manual.
4 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Contents
1 - Quick Reference
The Agilent N8700 DC Power Supplies – At a Glance ................................. 8
The Front Panel - At a Glance ......................................................................... 10
The Rear Panel – At a Glance ......................................................................... 12
2 - Installation
General Information .......................................................................................... 16
Inspecting the Unit ........................................................................................... 16
Installing the Unit .............................................................................................. 17
Connecting the Line Cord ................................................................................ 19
Connecting the Load ......................................................................................... 23
Output Voltage Sensing ................................................................................... 27
Load Considerations ......................................................................................... 29
Parallel Connections ......................................................................................... 31
Series Connections ........................................................................................... 33
J1 Connector Connections .............................................................................. 35
3 - Operating the Power Supply Locally
Turn-On Check-Out ........................................................................................... 38
Normal Operation .............................................................................................. 40
Protection Functions ........................................................................................ 41
Output On/Off Controls.................................................................................... 44
Analog Programming of Output Voltage and Current ................................. 47
4 - Operating the Power Supply Remotely
Connecting to the Interfaces .......................................................................... 52
SCPI Commands – an Introduction ................................................................ 62
5 - Language Reference
SCPI Command Summary ................................................................................ 68
Calibration Commands ..................................................................................... 70
Measure Commands......................................................................................... 71
Output Commands ............................................................................................ 72
Source Commands ............................................................................................ 73
Status Commands ............................................................................................. 75
Series N8700 User’s Guide 5
System Commands ........................................................................................... 81
Trigger Commands ............................................................................................ 83
6 - Programming Examples
Output Programming Example ........................................................................ 86
Trigger Programming Example ........................................................................ 88
Appendix A - Specifications
Performance Specifications ............................................................................ 92
Supplemental Characteristics ......................................................................... 93
Outline Diagram ................................................................................................. 96
Appendix B - Verification and Calibration
Verification ......................................................................................................... 97
Calibration ........................................................................................................ 126
Appendix C - Service
Types of Service Available............................................................................. 130
Repackaging for Shipment............................................................................. 130
Operating Checklist ......................................................................................... 130
Error Messages ............................................................................................... 132
Recycling Plastic Components ..................................................................... 136
Appendix D - Compatibility
Differences – In General ................................................................................ 138
Compatibility Command Summary ............................................................... 139
Index ........................................................................................................................................................... 141
6 Series N8700 User’s Guide
1
Quick Reference
The Agilent N8700 DC Power Supplies – At a Glance ................................. 8
The Front Panel - At a Glance ......................................................................... 10
The Rear Panel – At a Glance ......................................................................... 12
This chapter concisely describes the Agilent Technologies Series
N8700 Power Supplies.
This chapter is not meant to describe every operating feature in
detail. It is simply a quick reference guide to quickly become familiar
with the essential components of the power supply. It can also be
used as a memory jogger for experienced users to quickly find a
front/rear panel function.
A quick reference programming command chart is included in the
beginning of chapter 5.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 7
1 Quick Reference
The Agilent N8700 DC Power Supplies – At a Glance
The Agilent Technologies Series N8700 System DC Power Supplies
are general-purpose, 2U (two rack units) high, switching power
supplies that are available with a wide variety of output voltage and
current ratings. There are both 3.3 kW and 5 kW models.
These power supplies are power-factor corrected and have flexible
AC input voltage options. Output voltage and current are
continuously displayed and LED indicators show the complete
operating status of the power supply.
The front panel controls allow the user to set the output parameters,
over-voltage, under-voltage, and over-current protection levels, and
preview the settings.
The rear panel includes the necessary connectors to control and
monitor the power supply operation by analog signals or by the builtin remote communication interfaces.
Output Features
System Features
Constant voltage/constant current with automatic crossover.
High-resolution voltage and current front panel controls.
Accurate voltage and current readback.
Independent edge-triggered external shut-off, and level-
triggered external enable/disable.
Parallel master/slave operation with active current sharing.
Remote sensing to compensate for voltage drop in load leads.
Analog output programming and monitoring.
Built-in GBIB/LAN/USB interface.
A built-in Web server that lets you control the instrument
directly from an internet browser on your computer.
Zero-gap stacking - no ventilation holes at the top and bottom
surface of the power supply.
Active power factor correction.
Fan speed control for low noise and extended fan life.
8 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Programmable Functions
Output voltage and current setting.
Output voltage and current measurement.
Output voltage and current trigger setting.
Output On/Off control.
Over-current protection setting.
Over-voltage protection setting and readback.
Under-voltage limit setting and readback.
Start-up mode (either last setting or reset mode)
Status register setting and readback.
Bus trigger
Calibration
Model Ratings
Quick Reference 1
3.3 kW Models
Model
Note 1, 2
5 kW Models
Voltage
Range
Current
Range
Model
Note 1, 2
Voltage
Range
Current
Range
N8731A 0 – 8V 0 – 400A N8754A 0 – 20V 0 – 250A
N8732A 0 – 10V 0 – 330A N8755A 0 – 30V 0 – 170A
N8733A 0 – 15V 0 – 220A N8756A 0 – 40V 0 – 125A
N8734A 0 – 20V 0 – 165A N8757A 0 – 60V 0 – 85A
N8735A 0 – 30V 0 – 110A N8758A 0 – 80V 0 – 65A
N8736A 0 – 40V 0 – 85A N8759A 0 – 100V 0 – 50A
N8737A 0 – 60V 0 – 55A N8760A 0 – 150V 0 – 34A
N8738A 0 – 80V 0 – 42A N8761A 0 – 300V 0 – 17A
N8739A 0 – 100V 0 – 33A N8762A 0 – 600V 0 – 8.5A
N8740A 0 – 150V 0 – 22A
N8741A 0 – 300V 0 – 11A
N8742A 0 – 600V 0 – 5.5A
Note 1: Minimum output voltage is ≤ 0.2% of the rated output voltage.
Note 2: Minimum output current is ≤ 0.4% of the rated output current.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 9
1 Quick Reference
1
CV CC
VOLTAGE DC VOLTS DC AMPS CURRENT
PROT FINE LIMIT/ UVL OCP/488 LAN OUT ON
OVP
2 3 4 5
6
78
9101112
1314
1516171819
The Front Panel - At a Glance
1 – VOLTAGE knob
Voltage function: Adjusts the output voltage, the over-voltage protection level, and the
under-voltage limit. If over-voltage protection or under-voltage limits have been set,
you cannot program the output voltage outside those limits. Press the FINE button to
set fine adjustment resolution.
GPIB address: Selects the GPIB address when OCP/488 is pressed and held.
2 – VOLTAGE indicator Indicates the unit is in constant voltage mode – with the output voltage held constant.
3 – DC VOLTS display Normally displays the voltage measured at the sense terminals.
- Indicates the programmed voltage setting when the LIMIT button is pressed.
- Indicates either the OVP or UVL setting when the OVP/UVL button is pressed.
- Indicates the GPIB address when the OCP/488 button is pressed and held.
- Indicates the IP and Ethernet address when the LAN button is pressed and held.
4 – DC AMPS display Normally displays the current measured at the output terminals.
- Indicates the programmed current setting when the LIMIT button is pressed.
- Indicates the IP and Ethernet address when the LAN button is pressed and held.
5 – CURRENT indicator Indicates the unit is in constant current mode – with the output current held constant.
6 – CURRENT knob Adjusts the output current.
7 – OUT ON indicator Indicates the output is enabled or on.
8 – OUT ON button
Output function: Press the OUT ON button to turn the output on or off. Press the OUT
Press the FINE button to set fine adjustment resolution.
ON button to reset the unit and return the output to on after an OVP or OCP event.
Start-Up function: Press and hold the OUT ON button to toggle between the Safe-Start
and Auto-Restart modes. The display cycles between SAF and AU7. Releasing the OUT
ON button while one of the modes is displayed selects that mode.
10 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Quick Reference 1
9 – LAN indicator Indicates the LAN has been configured and is operating normally. Set another unit on
the N8700 unit’s Web home page and the LAN indicator blinks to identify that unit.
10 – LAN button
View address: Press the LAN button to view the IP and Ethernet address. The display
first scrolls through the four segments of the IP address, followed by the six segments
of the Ethernet (EA) address. Press any key to turn the address display off.
Reset address: Press and hold the LAN button for three seconds. Pressing the LAN
button again while the message “LAn rES” is displayed resets the LAN configuration
to the factory-shipped settings (see chapter 4 for settings). The display returns to
normal and the configuration is not changed if the LAN button is not pressed again.
11 – OCP/488 indicator Indicates over-current protection is enabled or on.
12 – OCP/488 button
Enable OCP: Press the OCP/488 button to turn over-current protection on. Press the
OCP/488 button again to turn over-current protection off.
Reset OCP: Press the OUT ON button to enable the output and re-arm over-current
protection following an over-current protection event.
GPIB address: Press and hold the OCP/488 button for three seconds to set the GPIB
address with the Voltage knob.
13 – OVP/UVL button OVP function: Press the OVP/UVL button once to set the over-voltage protection level
with the Voltage knob (the display shows OUP). You cannot set the over-voltage
protection lower than about 5% above the present output voltage setting.
UVL function: Press the OVP/UVL button twice to set the under-voltage programming limit with the Voltage knob (the display shows UUL).
You cannot set the under-
voltage protection higher than about 5% below the present output voltage setting.
14 – LIMIT button Limit function: Press the LIMIT button to display the output voltage and current limit.
Settings are shown on the display for five seconds then the display returns to show
the actual output voltage and current.
Lock function: Press and hold the LIMIT button to toggle between ‘Locked’ front panel
(LFP) and ‘Unlocked’ front panel (UFP). The display will cycle between LFP and UFP.
Releasing the LIMIT button while one of the modes is displayed selects that mode.
If
the display indicates rLFP, the front panel has been locked by a remote programming
command.
15 – LIMIT indicator Indicates the LIMIT button is pressed.
16 – FINE button Sets Fine or Coarse adjustment control for the Voltage and Current knobs.
Press the FINE button to set Fine mode; press again to return to Coarse mode.
- Fine mode: Knobs operate with high resolution.
- Coarse mode: Knobs operate with lower resolution (approximately six turns).
17 – FINE indicator Indicates the unit is in the high resolution ‘Fine’ adjustment mode.
18 – PROT indicator Blinks when a fault has occurred.
OVP, OCP, OTP, Enable fail, and AC fail detection will cause the PROT (protection)
indicator to blink.
few seconds after the unit is turned off because of residual
The PROT indicator may blink and the display will indicate AC for a
energy inside the unit.
19 – POWER switch Turns the power supply on or off.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 11
1 Quick Reference
1
6
7
8
5
4
3
9
2
8V – 100V
(bus bar)
150V – 600V
(wire clamp)
3-phase VAC
(four-conductor)
2-phase VAC
(three-conductor)
The Rear Panel – At a Glance
1 – AC input connector Header with mating plug-in connector for both the 3.3 kW and 5 kW output models.
A 3-conductor plug is provided for single-phase VAC.
A 4-conductor plug is provided for 3-phase VAC.
2 – DC output connector Wire clamp connector is used for 150V, 300V and 600V models.
Bus bars are used for 8V to 100V models.
3 – Analog
programming
connector
Connector for the analog interface. Includes output voltage and current limit
programming and monitoring signals, Shut-Off control (electrical signal),
Enable/Disable control (dry-contact), power supply ok (Power Supply OK) signal and
operation mode (CV/CC) signal. (See next page for details)
4 – SW1 setup switch Nine-position switch for selecting remote programming and monitoring modes for
Output Voltage, Current Limit and other control functions. (See next page for details)
5 – Remote Sense
connector
Connector for making remote sensing connections for regulating the load voltage and
compensating for wiring voltage drop. (See next page for details)
6 – GPIB connector Connector for connecting to a GPIB interface. See chapter 4 for setup.
7 – LAN connector Connector for connecting to a LAN interface. LINK LED indicates link integrity. TX LED
indicates LAN activity. See chapter 4 for LAN setup.
8 – USB connector Connector for connecting to a USB interface. See chapter 4 for setup.
9 – Ground screw & nut M4x8 screws with nut for making chassis ground connections
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD The AC power cable provides a chassis ground through the
ground conductor. Be certain that your power source is three-conductor for
single-phase models or four-conductor for 3-phase models with the ground
conductor (green/yellow) connected to earth ground.
12 Series N8700 User’s Guide
J2 Sense Connector
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
SW1 Setup Switch
1 – Output voltage, voltage
programming
Quick Reference 1
1 – Remote sense (+)
2 – Local sense (+)
3 – Not used
4 – Local sense (–)
5 – Remote sense (–)
The factory-shipped configuration is shown in the figure.
The factory-shipped setting is Down for all switches.
Down: The output voltage is programmed by the front panel.
Up
: The output voltage is programmed by the external voltage signal.
2 – Output current, voltage
programming
3 – Programming range
(voltage/resistance)
4 – Voltage and Current
monitoring range
Down: The output current is programmed by the front panel.
Up
: The output current is programmed by the external voltage signal.
Down: The remote programming range is: 0 – 5V / 0 – 5KΩ.
Up
: The remote programming range is: 0 – 10V / 0 – 10KΩ.
Down: The remote monitoring range is: 0 – 5V.
Up
: The remote monitoring range is: 0 – 10V.
5 – Shut-Off Logic Select Down: OUT OFF = Low (0 – 0.6V) or short; OUT ON = High (2V – 15V) or open.
Up
: OUT OFF = High (2V – 15V) or open; OUT ON = Low (0 – 0.6V) or short.
6 – Not Used
7 – Output voltage, resistive
programming
8 – Output current, resistive
programming
Down: The output voltage is programmed by the front panel.
Up
: The output voltage is programmed by the external resistor.
Down: The output current is programmed by the front panel.
Up
: The output current is programmed by the external resistor.
9 – Enable/Disable control Down: The J1 Enable+/Enable– pins are not active.
Up
: The J1 Enable+/Enable– pins are active.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 13
1 Quick Reference
J1 Analog Programming Connector
Voltage Monitor
Common (-S)
CV / CC
Current Program
Voltage Program
Local / Analog
Chassis Common
Chassis Common
Enable IN
Parallel Enable OUT
Current Monitor
Current Prog. Return
Voltage Prog. Return
Local / Analog Stat e
13 9
24
25
101112
2223
7
8
2021
6
19
45
3
1718
1
2
141516
Shut Off
Power Supply OK
The factory-shipped default configuration is Local operation, which
does not require connection to J1.
Pin 1: Enable IN Connect Pin 1 to Pin 14 to enable the output. Disconnect to disable the output.
Pin 2, 3: Chassis Common Signal return for Pin 15 and Pin 16. Connected to chassis.
Pin 4–7: Not Used No connection
Pin 8: Local/Analog Input for selecting between front panel or analog programming of the output.
Pin 9: Voltage Program Input for voltage or resistance programming of the output voltage.
Pin 10: Current Program Input for voltage or resistance programming of the output current.
Pin 11: Voltage Monitor Output for monitoring the output voltage.
Pin 12: Common Signal return for Pin 8, Pin11, Pin 13, and Pin 24. Referenced internally to the
negative sense potential.
Pin 13: CV/CC Output for constant voltage/constant current mode indication.
Pin 14: Enable OUT Connect Pin 14 to Pin 1 to enable the output. Disconnect to disable the output.
Pin 15: Shut Off Input for Shut-Off control of the output. Referenced to Chassis Common.
Pin 16: Power Supply OK Output to indicate the power supply status. Referenced to Chassis Common.
Pin 17–20: Not Used No connection
Pin 21: Local/Analog State Output for indication of local or analog programming mode.
Pin 22: Voltage Prog. Return Signal return for Pin 9. Connected internally to pin 12.
Pin 23: Current Prog. Return Signal return for Pin 10. Referenced internally to p
in 12.
Pin 24: Current Monitor Output for monitoring the output current.
Pin 25: Parallel Output for current balancing in parallel operation. Connected internally to pin 24.
14 Series N8700 User’s Guide
2
Installation
General Information .......................................................................................... 16
Inspecting the Unit ........................................................................................... 16
Installing the Unit .............................................................................................. 17
Connecting the Line Cord ................................................................................ 19
Connecting the Load ......................................................................................... 23
Output Voltage Sensing ................................................................................... 27
Load Considerations ......................................................................................... 29
Parallel Connections ......................................................................................... 31
Series Connections ........................................................................................... 33
J1 Connector Connections .............................................................................. 35
This chapter describes how to install your power supply. It discusses
installation, rack mounting, and line cord connections.
This chapter also discusses how to connect your load to the output
terminals. It discusses what you need to know about wire sizes and
how to compensate for voltage drops in the load leads. It also
discusses various loads configurations and how to connect units in
series and parallel.
Before getting started, check the list under “Items Supplied” and
verify that you have received these items with your instrument. If
anything is missing, please contact your nearest Agilent Sales and
Service Office.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 15
2 Installation
General Information
Models
Items Supplied
3.3 kW Models 5 kW Models
N8731A – N8739A N8754A – N8759A
N8740A – N8742A N8760A – N8762A
Item Description
Power Cord A power cord appropriate for your location.
Units are supplied with unterminated power cords.
Strain relief assembly A strain relief assembly for unterminated power cords.
AC input cover A cover for the AC input on which the strain relief assembly
is mounted.
Analog connector A DB25 subminiature connector plug for analog control
connections.
Shield assembly A safety shield appropriate for the output terminal
connections (either wire clamp or bus bar).
Hardware Nuts, washers, and bolts for connecting load leads to output
bus bars (only used for 8V to 100V units).
Documentation Set Contains User’s Guide with Product Reference CD-ROM.
Certificate of Calibration A certificate of calibration referenced to the serial number.
Automation-Ready
CD-ROM
E2094N - contains Agilent IO Libraries Suite.
Accessories
Item Description
N5740A Rack-mount slide kit for installing in system II cabinets
Inspecting the Unit
When you receive your power supply, inspect it for any obvious
damage that may have occurred during shipment. If there is damage,
notify the shipping carrier and nearest Agilent Sales and Service
Office immediately. Refer to Appendix C for more information.
Until you have checked out the power supply, save the shipping
carton and packing materials in case the unit has to be returned.
16 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Installing the Unit
CONNECTION TO AC SOURCE The power supply must be connected to the AC
Safety Considerations
Environment
Installation 2
This power supply is a Safety Class I instrument, which means it has
a protective earth terminal. That terminal must be connected to earth
ground through power source equipped with a ground receptacle.
Refer to the Safety Summary page at the beginning of this guide for
general safety information. Before installation or operation, check
the power supply and review this guide for safety warnings and
instructions. Safety warnings for specific procedures are located at
appropriate places throughout this Guide.
Refer to all WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, and NOTES in the “Connecting
the Line Cord” section prior to connecting the unit to an AC source.
WARNING
NOTE
Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gasses or fumes.
The environmental conditions, dimensions of the instrument, as well
as an outline diagram are given in Appendix A. The instrument
should only be operated indoors in a controlled environment. Do not
operate the power supply in an area where the ambient temperature
exceeds +40°C.
Agilent N8700 power supplies generate magnetic fields, which may affect the
operation of other instruments. If your equipment is susceptible to magnetic
fields, do not position it adjacent to the power supply.
Airflow
Fans cool the power supply by drawing air through the front and
exhausting it out the back. The instrument must be installed in a
location that allows sufficient space of at least 10 cm (4 in) at the
front and back of the unit for adequate air circulation.
Bench Installation
Attach the four plastic feet that are supplied with the unit when the
instrument is mounted on a surface or when units are stacked
without rack support. When using the plastic feet, a maximum of
three units can be stacked. You must allow for free airflow into the
front of the unit and out of the back of the unit. (see “Airflow”).
WARNING
Series N8700 User’s Guide 17
mains through a protective device such as a circuit breaker or fuse with a
rating as described under “Connecting the Line Cord”. The line cord cannot
be used as a disconnect device for the power supply.
2 Installation
Rack Installation
CAUTION
Ensure that the screws used to attach the rack slide kit do not penetrate more
than 6 mm into the sides of the unit.
Do not block the air intake at the front, or the exhaust at the rear of the unit.
The Agilent N8700 power supplies can be mounted in a standard 19inch rack panel or cabinet. They are designed to fit in two rack units
(2U) of space. To install the power supply in a rack:
1. Use the front panel rack-mount brackets to install the power
supply in the rack.
2. Use a support bracket to provide adequate support for the rear of
the power supply.
3. Rack mount slides can be attached to the unit when installing the
unit in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Use the Agilent N5740A
Rack-Mount Slide Kit and refer to the following figure for assembly
instructions. Use two #10-32 x 3/8 in (max.) screws on each side. To
prevent internal damage, use the specified screw length only.
Cleaning
WARNING
18 Series N8700 User’s Guide
SHOCK HAZARD To prevent electric shock, unplug the unit before cleaning.
Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to clean the
external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.
Connecting the Line Cord
Cable Option/Part no.
Description
Rating
Wire Size
Length
Approvals
(190-240 VAC nominal)
Installation 2
WARNING
WARNING
CAUTION
SHOCK HAZARD The power cable provides a chassis ground through the
ground conductor. Be certain that the power cable has the ground conductor
connected to earth ground at the source and instrument AC input connector.
FIRE HAZARD Use only the power cable that was supplied with your
instrument. Using other types of power cables may cause overheating of the
power cable and result in fire.
CONNECTION TO AC SOURCE The power supply must be connected to the
AC mains through a protective device such as a circuit breaker or fuse with
ratings as follows:
For single-phase models: 30A maximum per phase
For 3-phase models: 20A maximum per phase
Connection of either a 3.3 kW or 5 kW power supply to an AC power source
must be made by a qualified electrician in accordance with local electrical
codes.
The POWER on/off switch is not the main disconnect device and does
not completely disconnect all circuits from the AC source. A
disconnect device, either a switch or circuit breaker for permanent or
multi-phase configurations must be provided in the final installation.
The disconnect device must comply with UL/CSA/EN 61010-1
requirements. It shall be in close proximity to the equipment, shall be
easily accessible, and shall be marked as the disconnect device for
this equipment. The disconnect device must meet the input ratings
requirements listed on the INPUT RATING label located on the top
cover of each unit. Refer to “AC Input” In Appendix A for details.
One of the following unterminated power cables is provided with
each unit. If required, connect an appropriate locking-type power
plug to the end of the power cable.
OPT 831, p/n 8121-1949 3.3kW single-phase
OPT 832, p/n 8121-1331 3.3kW single-phase
OPT 861, p/n 8121-1946 3.3kW/5kW 3-phase
OPT 862, p/n 8121-1948 3.3kW/5kW 3-phase
(380-415 VAC nominal)
Note 1: 2-wire plus one green/yellow safety ground conductor
Not
e 2: 3-wire plus one green/yellow safety ground conductor
Not
e 3: 10 AWG corresponds to 4mm2
300V, 25 A, 60°C
250V, 32 A, 60 °C
300V, 25 A, 90 °C
450V, 20 A, 70 °C
3 x 10 AWG
3 x 4 mm
2 Note1
4 x 10 AWG
4 x 2.5 mm
Note1,3
2.5 m UL/CSA
2.5 m Harmonized
Note2,3
2.5 m UL/CSA
2 Note2
2.5 m Harmonized
Series N8700 User’s Guide 19
2 Installation
WARNING
CONNECTION TO AC MAINS Applying incorrect AC mains voltage or
s will damage the power supply and void the
L1
L2
L3
phase
phasephase
Earth
(safety ground)
208 V
Single-phase power supply
attached to 208 V, phaseto-phase distribution.
L1
L2
L3
phase
phasephase
Earth
(safety ground)
Single-phase power supply
attached to 230 V, phaseto-neutral distribution.
230 V
Disconnect
device
Disconnect
device
L1
L2
L3
phase
phasephase
Earth
(safety ground)
208 V
3-phase power supply
attached to 208 V, phaseto-phase distribution.
L1
L2
L3
phase
phasephase
Earth
(safety ground)
400 V
3-phase power supply
attached to 400 V, phaseto-phase distribution.
Disconnect
device
Disconnect
device
Single-phase mains connections for 3.3 kW units
Option 230 units wired
for nominal AC input
190 – 240 VAC
incorrectly wiring to the AC main
warranty.
Option 208 units wired
for nominal AC input
190 – 240 VAC
Option 400 units wired
for nominal AC input
380 – 415 VAC
3-phase mains connections for 3.3 kW and 5 kW units
20 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Input Connections for 3.3 kW and 5 kW units
3.3 kW 3-phase
190 – 240 VAC
13.6 – 14.5 A max.
50/60 Hz
380 – 415 VAC
6.8 – 7.2 A max.
50/60 Hz
3-phase cable (shown)
The AC input connector is located on the rear panel. It is a 3-terminal
wire clamp for 3.3 kW single-phase units, or a 4-terminal wire clamp
for 3.3 kW and 5 kW 3-phase units. Input voltage and current ratings
are as follows:
Unit Nominal AC
Input
3.3 kW single-phase 190 – 240 VAC 23 – 24 A max. 50/60 Hz
5 kW 3- phase 190 – 240 VAC 21 – 22 A max. 50/60 Hz
380 – 415 VAC 10.5 – 12 A max. 50/60 Hz
Input Current @
100% load
Installation 2
Frequency
NOTE
The AC input line voltage rating is permanently built into the unit and cannot
subsequently be changed.
Connect the cable to the AC input connector as follows:
1 Strip the outside insulation of the AC cable approximately 10 cm
(4 in). Trim the wires so that the green/yellow ground wire is 10
mm (0.4 in) longer than the other wires. Strip 10 mm (0.4 in) at
the end of each of the wires.
2 Unscrew the base of the strain relief from the wire compression
nut. Place the locknut inside the AC input cover with the flat side
of the nut against the cover. Insert the base through the outside
opening of the AC input cover. Screw the base securely onto the
locknut from the outside. Tighteming torque: 17 ft-lb (23 Nm).
3 Slide the wire compression nut over the AC cable. Insert the
stripped wires through the strain relief base until the outer cable
jacket is flush with the inside edge of the base. Place a wrench on
the base to keep it from turning. Now tighten the compression
nut to the base while holding the cable in place. Tightening
torque: 14 – 16.2 ft-lb (19 – 22 Nm). Refer to the following figure.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 21
has four conductors.
Single-phase cable has
three conductors.
2 Installation
Plug Type:
PC 6/4-STF-10,16 or PC 6/3-STF-10,16 Phoenix
4 Route the AC wires to the input connector terminals as required.
To connect the wires, loosen the terminal screw, insert the
stripped wire into the terminal, and tighten the screws securely
as indicated in the following figures. Ensure that you have the
green/yellow ground conductor connected to the ground terminal
on the connector. Plug the connector onto the rear panel header
and secure it with the side screws. Screw tightening torque: 10.7
– 13.4 in-lb (1.2 – 1.5 Nm).
or
Wire Size: AWG 18 to AWG 8
Stripping Length: 12 mm (0.5 in.)
Torque: 10.7 – 13.4 in-lb (1.2 – 1.5 Nm)
5 Route the wires inside the cover to prevent pinching while sliding
the cover towards the rear panel for attachment. Fasten the cover
to the unit using the M3 x 8mm flat head screws provided. Screw
tightening torque: 4.8 in-lb (0.54 Nm). Refer to the following
figure.
22 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Connecting the Load
Note 1
(Ω/1000 feet) Note 2
18
0.823
1.0 mm2
14
6.385
16
1.31
1.5 mm2
18
4.016
14
2.08
2.5 mm2
25
2.526
12
3.31
4 mm2
30
1.589
10
5.26
6 mm2
40
0.9994
8
8.37
10 mm2
60
0.6285
6
13.30
16 mm2
80
0.3953
4
21.15
25 mm2
105
0.2486
2
33.62
35 mm2
140
0.1564
1/0
53.48
70 mm2
195
0.0983
2/0
67.43
70 mm2
225
0.0779
3/0
84.95
95 mm2
260
0.0618
Note 1.
Ampacity is based on 30 °C ambient temperature with the conductor rated at
ampacities by the following co nstants:
Temp (°C)
Constant
Temp (°C)
Constant
21-25
1.08
31-35
0.91
26-30
1.00
36-40
0.82
Note 2.
Resistance is nominal at 20 °C wire temperature.
Installation 2
WARNING
Wire Size
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD Turn off AC power before making rear panel connections.
Wires and straps must be properly connected and screws securely tightened.
The following factors should be considered when selecting wiring to
connect the load to the power supply:
Current carrying capacity of the wire
Insulation rating of the wire should be at least equivalent to
the maximum output voltage of the power supply
Load wire voltage drop
Noise and impedance effects of the load wiring
FIRE HAZARD To satisfy safety requirements, load wires must be large
enough not to overheat when carrying the maximum short-circuit current of
the power supply. If there is more than one load, then any pair of load wires
must be capable of safely carrying the full-rated current of the supply.
Paralleled load wires may be required for larger-ampacity power supplies.
The following table lists the characteristics of AWG (American Wire
Gauge) copper wire.
AWG equivalent
area in mm
60 °C. For ambient temeratures other than 30 °C, multiply the above
nearest Metric
2
wire size
Ampacity
Resistance
Series N8700 User’s Guide 23
2 Installation
connections when using a power supply with a rated output greater than 40V.
ensure that the load and its connections have no accessible live parts. Ensure
that the load wiring insulation rating is greater than or equal to the maximum
Flat
washers
M10 x 25
bolt
Wire Lug
Hex nut
Spring
washer
Paralleled
wire lugs
Along with conductor temperature, you must also consider voltage
drop when selecting wire sizes. Although the power supply will
compensate for up to 5 volts in each load wire, it is recommended to
minimize the voltage drop to less than 1 volt to prevent excessive
output power consumption from the power supply and poor dynamic
response to load changes.
Load Connections for 8V to 100V Models
WARNING
CAUTION
SHOCK HAZARD Hazardous voltages may exist at the outputs and the load
To protect personnel against accidental contact with hazardous voltages,
output voltage of the power supply.
Ensure that the load wiring mounting hardware does not short the output
terminals. Heavy connecting cables must have some form of strain relief to
prevent loosening the connections or bending the bus-bars.
1 As shown in the following figure all load wires should be
properly terminated with wire terminal lugs securely attached.
DO NOT use unterminated wires for load connections at the
power supply. Attach the wire terminals to the inside of the busbars to ensure enough space for installing the shield.
2 Install the shield after you have finished connecting the load
wires. Route the load wires through the openings in the back of
the shield. If necessary, use diagonal cutters and remove the
24 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Installation 2
connections when using a power supply with a rated output greater than 40V.
that the load wiring insulation rating is greater than or equal to the maximum
Wire Size:
AWG 18 to AWG 10
Stripping Length:
10 mm (0.4 in)
Torque:
4.4 – 5.3 in-lb (0.5 – 0.6 Nm)
Opening for wire sizes
from AWG 4-10.
Opening for wire sizes
from AWG 2-1/0.
(cut-out
has been removed)
Remove this cut-out for
wire sizes AWG 2/0- 3/0.
Remove this cut-out for
bus rail installation.
appropriate cut-outs for the larger sized wires as indicated in the
following figure. Secure the shield using the tab on the left side
and the M3 x 8mm flat head screw on the right side. Screw
tightening torque: 4.8 - 5.3 in-lb (0.54 – 0.6 Nm).
Load Connections for 150V, 300V and 600V Models
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD Hazardous voltages may exist at the outputs and the load
To protect personnel against accidental contact with hazardous voltages,
ensure that the load and its connections have no accessible live parts. Ensure
output voltage of the power supply.
The 150V, 300V and 600V models have a four-terminal wire clamp
output connector. The two left terminals are the positive outputs and
the two right terminals are the negative outputs. The connector
specifications are as follows:
Series N8700 User’s Guide 25
2 Installation
A
Load wires
Negative
(-) output
Positive
(+) output
Load wires
Connect load wires to the power supply output wire clamp connector
as follows:
1 Strip wires back approximately 10 mm (0.4 in).
2 Loosen the connector terminal screws and insert the stripped
wires into the terminal. Tighten the terminal screws securely.
3 Loosen the chassis screw marked A and remove (save).
4 Slide the slotted tab on the protective shield’s left side into the
chassis slot and lock into place. Insert the right side shield screw
A (previously removed) to fix the shield to the chassis. Screw
tightening torque: 4.8 - 5.3 in-lb (0.54 - 0.6 Nm).
5 Route the load wires to the tab at the top of the shield. Ensure
the wire length inside the shield is long enough to provide proper
strain relief.
6 Attach the load wires to the notched shield tab using a tie-wrap
or equivalent as shown in the following figure.
26 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Output Voltage Sensing
Stripping Length:
0.28 in. (7 mm)
Torque:
1.95 – 2.21 in-lb (0.22 – 0.25 Nm)
1 Remote sense (+)
2 Local sense (+)
3 Not connected
4 Local sense (-)
5 Remote sense (-)
-
-
Rem.sense
Local sense
Local sense
Rem.sense
+
Load lines, twisted
pair, shortest length
possible.
+V
-V
Load
+
Power
Supply
+
Error
Amp.
Installation 2
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD There is a potential shock hazard at the sense connector
when using a power supply with a rated output greater than 40V. Ensure that
the local sense and remote sense wiring insulation rating is greater than or
equal to the maximum output voltage of the power supply. Ensure that the
connections at the load end are shielded to prevent accidental contact with
hazardous voltages.
Local and remote sense connections are made at the J2 connector.
The connector has a removable plug that makes it easy for you to
make your wire connections. Refer to the following figure for the
terminal assignments.
The J2 connector plug specifications are as follows:
Plug Type: MC 1.5/5-ST-3.81, Phoenix
Wire Size: AWG 28 to AWG 16
Local Sensing
Series N8700 User’s Guide 27
The power supply is shipped with the rear panel J2 sense connector
wired for local sensing of the output voltage. With local sensing, the
output voltage regulation is made at the output terminals. This
method does not compensate for voltage drop on the load wires,
therefore it is recommended only for low load current applications or
where the load regulation is less critical. The following figure
illustrates the internal connections of the J2 connector.
2 Installation
-
-
Rem.sense
Local sense
ocal sense
Rem.sense
+L
+
Sense lines.
Twisted pair or
+V
-V
Load
+
Power
Supply
Load lines. Twisted pair
shortest length possible.
shielded wires.
NOTE
Remote Sensing
If the power supply is operated without the local sense jumpers or without the
remote sense lines connected, it will continue to work, but the output voltage
regulation will be degraded. Also, the OVP circuit may activate and shut down
the power supply. Note that the internal wiring between +V and + local sense
and between –V and – local sense will fail if load current flows through it.
Use remote sensing in applications where load regulation at the load
is critical. Remote sensing allows the power supply to automatically
compensate for the voltage drop in the load leads. Refer to Appendix
A for the maximum allowable voltage drop on the load wires.
Remote sensing is especially useful in constant voltage mode with
load impedances that vary or have significant lead resistance. It has
no effect in constant current mode. Because sensing is independent
of other power supply functions it can be used regardless of how the
power supply is programmed. With remote sensing, voltage readback
monitors the load voltage at the remote sense points.
Use twisted or shielded wires to minimize noise pick-up. If shielded
wires are used, the shield should be connected to the ground at one
point, either at the power supply chassis or the load ground. The
optimal point for the shield ground should be determined by
experimentation.
To configure the power supply for remote sensing:
Turn off the power supply.
Remove the local sense jumpers from the J2 connector.
Connect the negative sense lead to terminal 5 (-S) and the
positive sense lead to terminal 1 (+S). Make sure that the
connector plug is securely inserted into the connector body.
Turn on the power supply.
28 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Installation 2
-
-
Rem.sense
Local sense
ocal sense
Rem.sense
+L
+
Load lines, twisted pair,
shortest length possible.
+V
-V
Load#1
+
Load#3
+
Load#2
+
Power
Supply
-
-
Rem.sense
Local sense
ocal sense
Rem.sense
+L
+
Distribution terminal
+V
+V
-V
-V
Load#1
+
Load#3
+
Load#2
+
Power
Supply
NOTE
Load Considerations
Multiple Loads
If the power supply is operated with remote sensing and either the positive or
negative load wire is not connected, an internal protection circuit will activate
and shut down the power supply. To resume operation, turn the power supply
off, connect the open load wire, and turn on the power supply.
The following figure shows multiple loads connected to one power
supply. Each load should be connected to the power supply’s output
terminals using separate pairs of wires. It is recommended that each
pair of wires will be as short as possible and twisted or shielded to
minimize noise pick-up and radiation. The sense wires should be
connected to the power supply output terminals or to the load with
the most critical load regulation requirement.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 29
If remotely located distribution terminals are used, as shown in the
following figure, the power supply output terminals should be
connected to the remote distribution terminals by a pair of twisted
and/or shielded wires. Connect each load to the distribution
terminals separately. Remote voltage sensing is recommended under
these circumstances. Sense either at the remote distribution
terminals or, if one load is more sensitive than the others, directly at
the critical load.
2 Installation
Output Noise and Impedance Effects
To minimize the noise pickup or radiation, the load wires and remote
sense wires should be twisted-pairs to the shortest possible length.
Shielding of sense leads may be necessary in high noise
environments. Where shielding is used, connect the shield to the
chassis via a rear panel ground screw. Even if noise is not a concern,
the load and remote sense wires should be twisted-pairs to reduce
coupling, which might impact the stability of power supply. The sense
leads should be separated from the power leads.
Twisting the load wires reduces the parasitic inductance of the cable,
which could produce high frequency voltage spikes at the load and
the output because of current variation in the load itself.
The impedance introduced between the power supply output and the
load could make the ripple and noise at the load worse than the noise
at the power supply rear panel output. Additional filtering with
bypass capacitors at the load terminals may be required to bypass the
high frequency load current.
Inductive Loads
Inductive loads can produce voltage spikes that may be harmful to
the power supply. A diode should be connected across the output.
The diode voltage and current rating should be greater than the
power supply maximum output voltage and current rating. Connect
the cathode to the positive output and the anode to the negative
output of the power supply.
Where positive load transients such as back EMF from a motor may
occur, connect a surge suppressor across the output to protect the
power supply. The breakdown voltage rating of the suppressor must
be approximately 10% higher than the maximum output voltage of the
power supply.
Battery Charging
CAUTION
If a battery or external voltage source is connected across the output and the
output is programmed below the battery or external voltage source, the power
supply will continuously sink current from the external source. This could
damage the power supply.
To avoid damaging the power supply, insert a reverse blocking diode
in series with the + output connection of the power supply. Connect
the diode’s cathode to the + battery terminal or external voltage
source. Connect the diode’s anode to the + output terminal of the
power supply.
30 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Grounding the Output
For models greater than 60 VDC rated output, no point on the Negative output
+
V
-
V
+
V
-
V
+S+LS-S -LS
MASTER
POWER SUPPLY
SLAVE
POWER SUPPLY
LOAD
J1-25
J1-10
Parallel
Curr Prog
As short as possible
Twisted
pair
J1-8
J1-12
J1-12
J1-23
Common
Curr Prog Rtn
+S+LS-S -LS
The output of the power supply is isolated from earth ground. Either
positive or negative voltages can be obtained from the output by
grounding (or "commoning") one of the output terminals. Always use
two wires to connect the load to the output regardless of where or
how the system is grounded.
To avoid noise problems caused by common-mode current flowing
from the load to ground, it is recommended to ground the output
terminal as close as possible to the power supply chassis ground
Installation 2
.
WARNING
Parallel Connections
CAUTION
SHOCK HAZARD
For models up to 60 VDC rated output, no point on the output shall be more
than ±60 VDC above or below chassis ground.
For models greater than 60 VDC rated output, no point on the Positive output
shall be more than ±600 VDC above or below chassis ground.
shall be more than ±400 VDC above or below chassis ground.
Only power supplies that have identical voltage and current ratings can be
connected in parallel.
Up to four units of the same voltage and current rating can be
connected in parallel to provide up to four times the output current
capability. Refer to the following figures for typical connections of
parallel power supplies using either local or remote sensing. The
figures show two units, however, the same connection method
applies for up to four units.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 31
Local Sensing
2 Installation
+S
-S
Twisted pair
+
V
-
V
+
V
-
V
+S-S
+S+LS-S -LS
MASTER
POWER SUPPLY
SLAVE
POWER SUPPLY
LOAD
J1-25
J1-10
Parallel
Curr Prog
As short as possible
Twisted
pair
J1-8
J1-12
J1-12
J1-23
Common
Curr Prog Rtn
+S
-S
Remote Sensing
One of the units operates as a master and the remaining units are
slaves. The slave units operate as controlled current sources
following the master output current. In remote operation, only the
master unit can be programmed by the computer while the slave
units may be connected to the computer for voltage, current and
status readback only.
Setting up the Master Unit
Setting up the Slave Units
32 Series N8700 User’s Guide
It is recommended that each unit supplies only up to 95% of its
current rating because of the imbalance that may be caused by
cabling and connections voltage drops.
Connect the sensing circuit for either local or remote sensing as
shown in the previous figures. Set the master unit output voltage to
the desired voltage. Program the current limit to the desired load
current limit divided by the number of parallel units. During
operation, the master unit operates in constant voltage mode,
regulating the load voltage at the programmed output voltage.
Set the rear panel setup switch SW1 position 2 to it’s up position. Set
the rear panel setup switch SW1 position 3 to the same position as
the SW1 position 4 of the master unit. Connect J1 pin 10 (Curr Prog)
of the slave unit to J1 pin 25 (Parallel) of the master unit. Connect J1
pin 23 (Curr Prog Rtn) of the slave unit to J1 pin 12 (Common) of the
master unit. Also connect a short between J1 pin 8 and J1 pin 12.
The output voltage of the slave units should be programmed HIGHER
than the output voltage of the master unit to prevent interference
with the master unit’s control. The current limit of each unit should
be programmed to the desired load current limit divided by the
number of parallel units.
Setting the Over-Voltage Protection
For models greater than 60 VDC rated output, no point on the Negative output
Setting the Over-Current Protection
Series Connections
Installation 2
The master unit OVP should be programmed to the desired OVP level.
The OVP of the slave units should be programmed to a HIGHER
value than the master. When the master unit shuts down, it programs
the slave unit to zero output voltage. If a slave unit shuts down when
its OVP is set lower than the master output voltage, only that unit
shuts down and the remaining slave units will supply the entire load
current.
Over-current protection, if desired, may only be used with the
MASTER unit. When the master unit shuts down, it programs the
slave units to zero output voltage.
WARNING
CAUTION
SHOCK HAZARD
For models up to 60 VDC rated output, no point on the output shall be more
than ±60 VDC above or below chassis ground.
For models greater than 60 VDC rated output, no point on the Positive output
shall be more than ±600 VDC above or below chassis ground.
shall be more than ±400 VDC above or below chassis ground.
Only power supplies that have identical voltage and current ratings can be
connected in series.
Two units of the same voltage and current rating can be connected in
series to provide up to two times the output voltage capability.
Because the current is the same through each element in a series
circuit, outputs connected in series must have equivalent current
ratings. Otherwise, the higher rated output could potentially damage
the lower rated output by forcing excessive current through it under
certain load conditions. Refer to the following figures for typical
series connections using either local or remote sensing.
It is recommended that diodes be connected in parallel with each
output to prevent reverse voltage during start up sequence or in case
one unit shuts down. Each diode should be rated to at least the rated
output voltage and output current of the power supply.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 33
2 Installation
Local Sensing
Remote Sensing
+S
+
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
+S
+
+
-
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
LOAD
(*)
(*)
+S
+
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
+S
+
+
-
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
LOAD
(*)
(*)
(*) Diodes are
user supplied.
+S
+
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
+S
+
+
-
-
-S
-LS
+LS
POWER
SUPPLY
(*)
(*)
(*) Diodes are user supplied.
As shown in the following figure, two units of the same voltage and
current rating can be connected in a split-connection series
configuration to provide positive and negative output voltages.
CAUTION
34 Series N8700 User’s Guide
This caution applies when using analog voltage programming with seriesconnected power supplies. The analog programming circuits of these power
supplies are referenced to the negative sense (-S) potential. Therefore, the
analog voltage circuits used to control each series-connected unit must be
separated and floated from each other.
J1 Connector Connections
There is a potential shock hazard at the J1 connector when
Mating Plug:
AMP part number 745211-2
141516
1718
19
2021
2223
24
25
1
2
3
45
6
7
8
101112
13
9
Current Monitor
Current Prog. Return
Voltage Prog. Return
Local / Analog State
Chassis Common
Enable IN
Voltage Monitor
Common (-S)
CV / CC
Current Program
Voltage Program
Local / Analog
Parallel
Enable OUT
Shut Off
Power Supply OK
Chassis Common
Pins on this side are isolated
from output terminals and are
referenced to chassis ground.
Pins on this side are
referenced to the negative
sense (-S) terminal.
Installation 2
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD
using a power supply with a rated output greater than 40V. Ensure that the
load wiring insulation rating is greater than or equal to the maximum output
voltage of the power supply.
External programming and monitoring signal are located on the J1
connector. The power supply is shipped with a mating plug that
makes it easy for you to make your wire connections. It is essential to
use this plastic-body plug to conform to safety agency requirements.
If a shield is required for the J1 wires, connect the shield to the
ground screw located on the power supply chassis.
Refer to the following figure for the pin assignments. A description of
the pins is given in chapter 1.
CAUTION
Series N8700 User’s Guide 35
The mating plug specifications for the J1 connector are as follows:
Wire Size: AWG 26 to AWG 22
Extraction tool: AMP part number 91232-1 or equivalent
Manual pistol grip tool: Handle: AMP p/n 58074-1
Head: AMP p/n 58063-1
Pins 12, 22 and 23 of J1 are connected internally to the negative sense (-S)
potential of the power supply. Do not attempt to bias any of these pins relative
to the negative output terminal. Use an isolated, ungrounded, programming
source to prevent ground loops and to maintain the isolation of the power
supply when programming from J1.
Chapter 3 describes how to configure the J1 connector when using it
to program the output voltage and current.
3
Operating the Power Supply Locally
Turn-On Check-Out ........................................................................................... 38
Normal Operation .............................................................................................. 40
Protection Functions ........................................................................................ 41
Output On/Off Controls.................................................................................... 44
Analog Programming of Output Voltage and Current ................................. 47
This chapter contains examples on how to operate your power supply
from the front panel. A check-out procedure is included to let you
verify that the power supply is operating properly. Additionally,
information about programming the power supply using the J1
analog programming connector is also provided.
The simple examples discussed in this chapter show you how to
program:
output voltage and current functions
protection functions
output on/off functions
safe-start and auto-restart
analog programming of voltage and current
front panel locking
Refer to chapters 4 and 5 for information on programming your
power supply using SCPI commands.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 37
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Turn-On Check-Out
Before Turn-On
Ensure that the power supply is configured as follows:
The unit is connected to an appropriate AC source as
described in chapter 2.
The POWER switch is in the off position.
Sense connector pins 1 and 2 are jumpered; sense connector
pins 4 and 5 are jumpered.
All switches on Connector J2 are in the down position.
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD Be aware that hazardous voltages can be present on the
output terminals. Do not set the output voltage above 40 VDC during the turnon check-out procedure. Check to make sure that the startup mode is set to
Safe-Start (see page 44).
Constant Voltage Check
1 Turn the POWER switch on.
2 Turn the output on by pressing the OUT ON button. The green
OUT ON indicator should be illuminated.
3 The green CV indicator should also be illuminated. If the CC
indicator is illuminated, rotate the current knob until the CV
indicator becomes illuminated.
4 Rotate the voltage knob while observing the DC VOLTS display.
The output voltage should vary while the knob is turned. The
voltage range is from zero to the maximum rated output for the
power supply model.
OVP Check
1 Rotate the voltage knob and set the output voltage of the unit to
50% of its full-scale rating or 30 volts, whichever is lower.
2 Press the OVP/UVL button once so that the DC AMPS display
indicates OUP. The DC VOLTS display shows the OVP level.
3 Use the voltage knob and set the OVP level of the unit to 75% of
its full-scale voltage rating or 40 volts, whichever is lower.
4 Wait a few seconds until the DC VOLTS display returns to show
the output voltage.
5 Use the voltage knob and raise the output voltage of the unit until
it approaches the OVP setting. Check to make sure that the
output voltage cannot be set higher than the OVP setting.
6 Press the OVP/UVL button again. Rotate the voltage knob and
reset the OVP level of the unit to its maximum setting.
38 Series N8700 User’s Guide
UVL Check
1 Press the OVP/UVL button twice so that the DC AMPS display
indicates UUL. The DC VOLTS display shows the UVL level.
2 Use the voltage knob and set the UVL level of the unit to 50% of
its full-scale voltage rating or 30 volts, whichever is lower.
3 Wait a few seconds until the DC VOLTS display returns to show
the output voltage.
4 Use the voltage knob and lower the output voltage of the unit
until it approaches the UVL setting. Check to make sure that the
output voltage cannot be set lower than the UVL setting.
5 Press the OVP/UVL button twice. Rotate the voltage knob and
reset the UVL level of the unit to its minimum setting.
Constant Current Check
1 Turn the POWER switch off. Wait a few seconds until the AC
indicator on the front panel goes out.
2 Use a heavy wire and short the +V and –V output terminals
together.
3 Turn the POWER switch on.
4 Turn the output on by pressing the OUT ON button. The green
OUT ON indicator should be illuminated. The green CC indicator
should be also illuminated.
5 Rotate the current knob while observing the DC AMPS display.
The output current should vary while the knob is turned. The
current range is from zero to the maximum rated output for the
power supply model.
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
OCP Check
1 Rotate the current knob and set the current limit of the unit to
about 10% of its full-scale current rating.
2 Press the OCP/488 button. This should trip the OCP protection.
The OCP indicator should be illuminated, the DC VOLTS display
should indicate OCP, and the Alarm indicator should be blinking.
3 Press the OCP/488 button again to cancel OCP protection. The
DC VOLTS display should indicate OFF because the OCP
protection is latched.
4 Press the OUT ON button to reset the OCP protection. The output
should return to its previous setting.
5 Turn the POWER switch off.
6 Remove the short from the +V and –V output terminals.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 39
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Normal Operation
Constant Voltage Mode
The power supply has two basic operating modes: constant voltage
and constant current mode. In constant voltage mode, the power
supply regulates the output voltage at the selected value, while the
load current varies as required by the load. In constant current
mode, the power supply regulates the output current at the selected
value, while the voltage varies as required by the load. The mode in
which the power supply operates at any given time depends on the
voltage setting, current limit setting, and the load resistance.
When the power supply is operating in constant voltage mode, the CV
indicator on the front panel illuminates.
Adjustment of the output voltage can be made when the output is
enabled (On) or disabled (Off). When the output is enabled, simply
rotate the voltage knob to program the output voltage.
When the output is disabled, press the LIMIT button and then rotate
the voltage knob. The DC VOLTS display will show the programmed
voltage for 5 seconds after the adjustment has been completed and
then indicate OFF.
The voltage knob can be set to coarse or fine resolution. Press the
FINE button to select finer resolution. The FINE indicator turns on.
NOTE
If you cannot adjust the voltage to the value that you desire, the power supply
may be operating at its current limit. Check the load condition and the current
limit setting. Also, the voltage cannot be programmed lower than about 5%
above the UVL setting, or higher than about 5% below the OVP setting.
Constant Current Mode
When the power supply is operating in constant current mode, the
CC indicator on the front panel illuminates.
Adjustment of the output current limit can be made when the output
is enabled (On) or disabled (Off). When the output is enabled and in
constant current mode, simply rotate the current knob to program
the current limit. If the output is in constant voltage mode, press the
LIMIT button and then rotate the current knob. The DC AMPS display
will show the programmed current for 5 seconds after the adjustment
has been completed and then indicate the actual output current.
When the output is disabled, press the LIMIT button and then rotate
the current knob. The DC AMPS display will show the programmed
current for 5 seconds after the adjustment has been completed and
then go blank because the output is off.
40 Series N8700 User’s Guide
The current knob can be set to coarse or fine resolution. Press the
FINE button to select finer resolution. The FINE indicator turns on.
CV/CC Mode Crossover
If the power supply is in constant voltage mode and the load current
increases above the current limit setting, the power supply switches
to constant current mode. If the load decreases below the current
limit setting, the power supply switches to constant voltage mode.
CV/CC Signal
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
CAUTION
Protection Functions
Over-Voltage Protection
Do not connect the CV/CC signal to a voltage source higher than 30 VDC.
Always connect the CV/CC signal to the voltage source with a series resistor to
limit the sink current to less than 10mA.
The CV/CC signal available on the J1 connector indicates the
operating mode of the power supply. The CV/CC signal is an open
collector output with a 30V parallel zener at J1 pin 13, referenced to
common at J1 pin 12. J1 pin 12 is connected internally to the –S
terminal. When the power supply operates in constant voltage mode,
CV/CC output is open. When the power supply operates in constant
current mode, CV/CC signal output is low (0 - 0.6V), with maximum
10 mA sink current.
The over-voltage protection protects against over-voltage conditions
on the output. If the output voltage attempts to exceed the
programmed limit in response to an analog programming signal or in
the event of a power supply failure, the over-voltage protection
circuit will protect the load by disabling the output. The voltage is
monitored at the sense terminals, thus providing the protection level
directly at the load. Upon detection of an over-voltage condition, the
output is disabled, the display shows OVP, the PROT indicator blinks,
and OV is set in the Questionable Condition status register.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 41
Adjustment of the over-voltage setting can be made when the output
is enabled (On) or disabled (Off). To set the OVP level, press the
OVP/UVL button so that the display indicates OUP. The display will
show the OVP setting. Rotate the voltage knob to adjust the OVP level.
The display will show OVP and the setting value for another five
seconds and then return to its previous state.
The OVP settings are limited at the minimum level to approximately
5% above the output voltage setting. Attempting to adjust the OVP
below this limit will result in no response to the adjustment attempt.
Refer to Appendix A for the maximum OVP settings.
Use one of the following methods to reset the OVP circuit after it
activates. If the condition that caused the over-voltage shutdown is
still present, the OVP circuit will turn the output off again.
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Under-Voltage Limit
1 Press the OUT ON button to turn the output on.
2 Turn the AC power off, wait a few seconds, and turn it on.
3 Turn the output off, then on again using the Shut Off pin on the
J1 connector. This only applies in Auto-Restart mode.
4 If the OVP continues to trip, try lowering the output voltage
below the OVP setting, or raising the OVP setting.
Under-voltage limit is a protection function that prevents adjustment
of the output voltage below a set limit either from the front panel or
remote interface. It does NOT include protection trip circuitry like
the over-voltage protection. The combination of UVL and OVP lets
you create a protection window for sensitive load circuitry.
Setting the UVL can be made when the output is enabled (On) or
disabled (Off). To set the UVL level, press the OVP/UVL button twice,
so that the display shows UUL. The display will show the UVL
setting. Rotate the voltage knob to adjust the UVL level. The display
will show UUL and the setting value for another five seconds and
then return to its previous state.
The UVL settings are limited at the maximum level to approximately
5% below the output voltage setting. Attempting to adjust the UVL
above this limit will result in no response to the adjustment attempt.
The minimum UVL setting is zero.
Over-Current Protection
Over-current protection will shut down the power supply output if
the load current reaches the current limit setting. This protection is
useful when the load is sensitive to an over-current condition.
To arm the over-current protection, press the OCP/488 button so that
the OCP indicator illuminates. When armed, a transition from
constant voltage to constant current mode will activate the overcurrent protection. When an over-current protection event occurs,
the output is disabled, the display shows OCP, the PROT indicator
blinks, and OC is set in the Questionable Condition status register.
Use one of the following methods to reset over-current protection
after it activates. If the load current is still higher than the current
limit setting, the over-current protection will be activated again.
1 Press the OUT ON button to turn the output on.
2 Turn the AC power off, wait a few seconds, and turn it on.
3 Turn the output off, then on again using the Shut Off pin on the
J1 connector. This only applies in Auto-Restart mode.
4 Press the OCP/488 button to cancel over-current protection. The
display will show OFF because OCP protection is latched. Press
the OUT ON button to reset OCP. With this method, the overcurrent protection is disabled. If the load current is still higher
than the current limit setting, the power supply will only attempt
to limit the current at the current limit setting.
42 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Over-Temperature Protection
The over-temperature protection circuit shuts down the power
supply before the internal components can exceed their safe internal
operating temperature. This can occur if there is a cooling fan failure.
When an OTP condition occurs, the output is disabled, the display
shows O7P, the PROT indicator blinks, and the OT status bit is set in
the Questionable Condition status register. Resetting the OTP circuit
can be automatic (non-latched) or manual (latched) depending on the
Safe-Start or Auto-Restart mode.
In Safe-Start mode, the OTP circuit is latched. The display continues
to show O7P and the PROT indicator continues to blink. To reset the
OTP circuit, press the OUT ON button.
In Auto-Restart mode, the OTP circuit is non-latched. The power
supply returns to its last setting automatically when the overtemperature condition is removed.
Power-Fail Protection
If the AC power stops briefly, but returns before the power supply
has reset, the power-fail protection circuit trips and the PF status bit
is set in the Questionable Condition status register. Resetting the
power-fail protection can be automatic (non-latched) or manual
(latched), depending on the Safe-Start or Auto-Restart mode.
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
In Safe-Start mode, the output of the power supply is Off, as specified
by the reset state when AC power returns. In Auto-Restart mode, the
power supply recovers its last settings when AC power returns.
Front Panel Lock-Out
The front panel controls can be locked to protect from accidental
power supply parameter change. Press and hold the LIMIT button to
toggle between Locked front panel and Unlocked front panel. The
display will cycle between LFP and UFP. Releasing the LIMIT button
while one of the modes is displayed, selects that mode.
In Unlocked front panel mode, the front panel controls are enabled
to program and monitor the power supply parameters.
In Locked front panel mode, the VOLTAGE and CURRENT knobs,
the OCP/488 button, and the OUT ON button are disabled
The power supply will not respond to attempts to use these controls.
The display will show LFP to indicate that the front panel is locked.
The OVP/UVL button remains active to preview the OVP and UVL
setting. The LIMIT button also remains active to preview the output
voltage and current setting or to unlock the front panel.
NOTE
This function operates independently of the SCPI SYST:COMM:RLST command.
If the front panel has been locked from the front panel, it cannot be unlocked by
SYST:COMM:RLST. Conversely, if the front panel has been locked by
SYST:COMM:RLST, it cannot be unlocked from the front panel.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 43
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Output On/Off state
UVL level
Output voltage setting
OCP setting
Output current setting
Locked/Unlocked front panel
OVP level
Start-up mode
Output On/Off Controls
OUT ON button
Safe-Start and Auto-Restart
The Output On/Off controls turn the power supply output on or off.
This can be done with the front panel OUT ON button or from the
rear panel J1 connector. With the output off, adjustments can be
made to the power supply or the load without shutting off AC power.
The OUT ON button can be pressed at any time to enable or disable
the power supply output. When the output is disabled, the output
voltage and current go to zero and the display shows OFF.
The power supply can be programmed to have either the last
operating settings (Auto-Restart) or the reset settings (Safe-Start)
apply at turn-on. Press and hold the OUT ON button to select between
Safe-Start and Auto-Restart modes. The display continuously cycles
between SAF and AUT every three seconds. Releasing the OUT ON
button while one of the modes is displayed, selects that mode.
In Safe-Start mode, the power supply turns on with the reset
settings (see chapter 5 under “*RST”). The output is disabled and the
output voltage and current are zero. This is the factory default.
In Auto-Restart mode, the power supply restores the operating
settings that were saved when it was last turned off (see below). The
output is either enabled or disabled according to its last setting.
Output Shut-Off Terminals
Output Shut-Off (SO) terminals are available on the J1 connector to
enable or disable the power supply output. This function is edge-
triggered. J1 pin 15 is the Shut-Off input, and pins 2 and 3, which
are connected internally, are the signal common. All pins are
optically isolated from the power supply output. The Shut-Off input
accepts a 2.5V-to-15V signal or an open/short contact to enable or
disable the output. The Shut-Off control logic is selected by SW1
setup switch 5.
44 Series N8700 User’s Guide
When an on-to-off transition is detected at the Shut-Off input, the
Shut-Off function enables or disables the output according to the
signal level or the open/short applied to J1 pin 15. When the output
has been disabled by the Shut-Off function, the display shows SO to
indicate the output is disabled.
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
SW1 switch 5
SO Signal Level
Output
Display
Down (default)
2 - 15V or Open
On
Voltage/Current
0 – 0.4V or Short
Off
SO
Up
2 - 15V or Open
Off
SO 0 – 0.4V or Short
On
Voltage/Current
SW1 switch 9
ENA+/ENA– pins
Output
Display
Prot Indicator
Down (default)
Not active
On
Voltage/Current
Off
Up
Opened
Off
ENA
Blinking
Shorted
On
Voltage/Current
Off
To re-enable the output after it has shut down, you must disable the
Shut-Off signal. In Auto-Restart mode, operation resumes
automatically. In Safe-Start mode the Shut-Off function is latched.
You must also press the OUT ON button or send an
OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar command to resume operation.
The Shut-Off function can be used to shut down multiple power
supplies in a daisy-chain fashion as explained later in this chapter. It
can also be used to reset the OVP and OCP as previously described.
NOTE
Because this function is edge-triggered, it may not be triggered by every state
change. For example, after applying AC power, the output will not be disabled
by the Shut Off function if the Shut-Off input is in the shut-off state. This is
because the unit has not detected an on-to-off signal transition.
Enable/Disable Terminals
CAUTION
To prevent possible damage to the unit, do not connect the Enable + or Enable –
terminals to the positive or negative output terminals.
Enable/Disable terminals are available on the J1 connector to enable
or disable the power supply output. This function is level-triggered.
Simply connect a switch or relay between J1 pins 1 and 14. This
function is activated by SW1 setup switch 9.
These pins disable the output when they are opened. When the
output is disabled, the PROT indicator on the front panel will blink.
To re-enable the output after it has shut down, you must short the
Enable + and Enable – terminals. In Auto-Restart mode, operation
resumes automatically. In Safe-Start mode the Enable/Disable
function is latched. You must also press the OUT ON button or send
an OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar command to resume operation.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 45
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Over-voltage protection
Enable/Disable signal true
Over-current protection
Shut Off signal true
Over-temperature protection
Remote interface failure
AC line failure
Output turned off
POWER SUPPLY
#
1
J1-2,3 J1-16 J1-16J1-16J1-15
Supply OK
POWER SUPPLY
#
2
J1-2,3 J1-15
POWER SUPPLY
#3
J1-2,3 J1-15
Shut OffCom
Shut OffSupply OKCom Com
Supply OK Shut Off
Power Supply OK Signal
Daisy-Chained Output Shut-down
The Power Supply OK signal on the J1 connector indicates a fault
condition in the power supply. J1 pin 16 is a TTL output signal. Pins
2 and 3, which are connected internally, are the signal common. All
pins are optically isolated from the power supply output. With no
fault, Power Supply OK is high, with a maximum source current of
2mA. When a fault occurs, Power Supply OK is low, with a maximum
sink current of 1mA. The following faults set this signal low:
It is possible to configure a multiple power supply system to shut
down all the units when a fault condition occurs in one of the units.
SW1 setup switch 5 must be in the Down position to enable the daisychain operation. Other switches are unaffected by this setting.
If a fault occurs in one unit, its Power Supply OK signal is set low and
its display will indicate the fault. The other units shut off with their
displays indicating SO. When the fault condition is cleared, all units
will recover according to their Safe-Start or Auto-Restart settings.
The following figure shows three units daisy-chained - the same
connection method can be used with additional units. The Shut Off
and Power Supply OK signals are referenced to Chassis Common (J1
pins 2 and 3).
46 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Analog Programming of Output Voltage and Current
function
signal
current control
Both Down (default)
No effect
Open
Local
Either one, or both Up
0 or Short
0~0.6V
Analog
1 or Open
Open
Local
1
14
13
25
10
12
8
9
23
22
+
+
CURRENT LIMIT
PROGRAMMING
OUTPUT VOLTAGE
PROGRAMMING
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
CAUTION
J1 pin 12, pin 22, and pin 23 are internally connected to the negative sense
terminal. Do not reference these pins to any terminal other than the negative
sense terminal, as it may damage the unit.
In Local mode, the output voltage and current is programmed with
the front panel VOLTAGE and CURRENT knobs or over the remote
interface. In Analog mode, the output voltage and current can be
programmed either by an analog voltage or by resistors connected to
the rear panel J1 connector.
The J1 connector also provides monitoring signals for the output
voltage and output current. The programming range and monitoring
signal range can be selected using the SW1 setup switch.
NOTE
With analog programming enabled, you cannot program the output voltage or
current using the front panel knobs or the remote interface. However, you can
read back output voltage or current from the front panel or the remote interface.
Analog Programming Control Terminals
J1 connector pin 8 accepts a TTL signal or an open/short contact
switch (referenced to pin 12) to select between Local or Analog
programming of the output voltage and current. This function is
enabled or disabled by SW1 setup switches 1 and 2.
J1 connector pin 21 is an open collector output that indicates if the
power supply is in Local mode or in Analog mode. To use this output,
connect a pull-up resistor to a voltage source of 30 VDC maximum.
Choose the pull-up resistor so that the sink current will be less than
5mA when the output is in low state.
SW1 switch 1 and 2
J1 pin 8
J1 pin 21
Output voltage/
Series N8700 User’s Guide 47
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
(J1 pin 9)
(J1 pin 10)
Down (default)
0 – 5V
0 – 5V
Up
0 – 10V
0 – 10V
Voltage Programming of Output Voltage and Current
CAUTION
To maintain the isolation of the power supply and prevent ground loops, use an
isolated programming source when operating the unit using analog programming.
Voltage programming sources of 0 - 5V or 0 - 10V can be used to
program the output voltage and current limit from zero to full scale.
Set the power supply to analog voltage programming as follows:
1 Make sure that the power supply is turned off.
2 Set SW1 setup switch 1 (for voltage) and 2 (for current) to the Up
position.
3 Set SW1 setup switch 3 to select programming voltage range
according to the table following these procedure steps.
4 Make sure that SW1 setup switches 7 and 8 are set Down.
5 Connect a short between J1 pin 8 and J1 pin 12 (see following
figure).
6 Connect the programming source to the mating plug of J1 as
shown in the following figure. Observe the correct polarity for the
voltage source.
7 Set the programming sources to the desired levels and turn the
power supply on. Adjust the programming sources to change the
power supply output.
The analog control circuits let you set the output voltage and current
limit up to 5% over the model-rated maximum value. The power
supply will operate within the extended range, however it is not
recommended to operate the power supply over its voltage and
current rating, and performance in this region is not guaranteed.
SW1 switch 3
Voltage Programming
Current Programming
48 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Operating the Power Supply Locally 3
1
14
13
25
10 9
23
22
CURRENT LIMIT
PROGRAMMING
OUTPUT VOLTAGE
PROGRAMMING
PROGRAMMING
RESISTOR
PROGRAMMING
RESISTOR
OPTIONAL SETS
LOWER LIMIT
OPTIONAL SETS
LOWER LIMIT
OPTIONAL SETS
UPPER LIMIT
OPTIONAL SETS
UPPER LIMIT
12
8
Resistance Programming of Output Voltage and Current
Resistances of 0 - 5 kΩ or 0 - 10 kΩ can be selected to program the
output voltage and current limit from zero to full scale. Internal
current sources supply a 1 mA current through the external resistors.
The voltage drop across the resistors is used as the programming
voltage for the power supply. To maintain the temperature stability
specification of the power supply, only use resistors that are stable
and low noise, with a temperature coefficient less than 50 ppm.
Set the power supply to resistance programming as follows:
1 Make sure that the power supply is turned off.
2 Set SW1 setup switch 1 (for voltage) and 2 (for current) to the UP
position.
3 Set SW1 setup switch 3 to select programming resistance range
according to the table following these procedure steps.
4 Set SW1 setup switch 7 (for voltage) and 8 (for current) to the Up
position to enable resistance programming.
5 Connect a short between J1 pin 8 and J1 pin 12 (see figure).
6 Connect the programming resistors to the mating plug of J1 as
shown in the following figure. A variable resistor can control the
output over its entire range, or a combination of variable resistor
and series/parallel resistors can control the output over a
restricted portion of its range.
7 Set the programming resistors to the desired resistance and turn
the power supply on. Adjust the resistors to change the power
supply output.
The analog control circuits let you set the output voltage and current
limit up to 5% over the model-rated maximum value. The power
supply will operate within the extended range, however it is not
recommended to operate the power supply over its voltage and
current rating, and performance in this region is not guaranteed.
SW1 switch 3 Voltage Programming
(J1 pin 9)
Current programming
(J1 pin 10)
Down (default) 0 – 5 kΩ 0 – 5 kΩ
Up 0 – 10 kΩ 0 – 10 kΩ
Series N8700 User’s Guide 49
3 Operating the Power Supply Locally
Up
0 – 10V
J1 pin 11
Voltage Monitor
External Monitoring of Output Voltage and Current
The J1 connector also provides analog signals for monitoring the
output voltage and current. Selection of the voltage range between 0
– 5V or 0 – 10V is made by SW1 setup switch 4. The monitoring
signals represent 0 to 100% of the power supply output voltage and
current rating. The monitor outputs have a 500Ω series output
resistance. Make sure that the sensing circuit has an input resistance
greater than 500 kΩ or the accuracy will be reduced.
SW1 switch 4 Voltage
range
Down (default) 0 – 5V J1 pin 11 Voltage Monitor
J1 pin 24 Current Monitor
J1 pin 24 Current Monitor
J1 pin 12 is the signal common for J1 pins 11 and 24.
J1 signal
connection
Signal function
50 Series N8700 User’s Guide
4
Operating the Power Supply Remotely
Connecting to the Interfaces .......................................................................... 52
SCPI Commands – an Introduction ................................................................ 62
This chapter contains information on how to configure the three
remote interfaces that are provided on the back of the instrument. In
most cases you can connect your power supply to any one of these
interfaces and be up and running with a minimum amount of
configuration.
NOTE
Detailed information on configuring the remote interfaces is included in the
USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide document located on the
Automation-Ready CD-ROM included with this product.
This chapter also contains a brief introduction to the SCPI
Programming language. SCPI (Standard Commands for
Programmable Instruments) is a programming language for
controlling instrument functions over the GPIB. SCPI is layered on
top of the hardware-portion of IEEE 488.2. The same SCPI commands
and parameters control the same functions in different classes of
instruments.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 51
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
Connecting to the Interfaces
The Agilent N8700 power supplies support remote interface
communication using a choice of three interfaces: GPIB, USB, and
LAN. All three interfaces are live at power-on.
GPIB Interface
NOTE
For detailed information about GPIB interface connections, refer to the Agilent
Technologies USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide, located on the
Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with your product.
The following steps will help you quickly get started connecting your
instrument to the General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB). The
following figure illustrates a typical GPIB interface system.
1 If you have not already done so, install the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite from the Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with
your product.
2 If you do not have a GPIB interface card installed on your
computer, turn off your computer and install the GPIB card.
3 Connect your instrument to the GPIB interface card using a GPIB
interface cable.
4 Use the Connection Expert utility of the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite to configure the installed GPIB interface card’s parameters.
52 Series N8700 User’s Guide
5 The power supply is shipped with its GPIB address set to 5. Use
the front panel menu if you need to change the GPIB address.
a Press and hold the OCP/488 button for about three seconds.
The DC VOLTS display will show the present GPIB address.
b To change the GPIB address, turn the voltage knob until the
desired GPIB address appears in the display. Valid GPIB
addresses are in the range of 0 to 30.
6 You can now use Interactive IO within the Connection Expert to
communicate with your instrument, or you can program your
instrument using the various programming environments.
USB Interface
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
NOTE
For detailed information about USB interface connections, refer to the Agilent
Technologies USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide, located on the
Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with your product.
The following steps will help you quickly get started connecting your
USB-enabled instrument to the Universal Serial Bus (USB). The
following figure illustrates a typical USB interface system.
1 If you have not already done so, install the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite from the Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with
your product.
2 Connect your instrument to the USB port on your computer.
3 With the Connection Expert utility of the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite running, the computer will automatically recognize the
instrument. This may take several seconds. When the instrument
is recognized, your computer will display the VISA alias, IDN
string, and VISA address. This information is located in the USB
folder.
NOTE
LAN Interface
NOTE
The VISA address is: USB0::2391::2055::model-serialnumber::0:INSTR
where 2391 is the Agilent code, 2055 is the N8700 code, model is the 6character model number, and serialnumber is the 10-character serial number
located on the label on the side of the unit.
4 You can now use Interactive IO within the Connection Expert to
communicate with your instrument, or you can program your
instrument using the various programming environments.
For detailed information about LAN interface connections, refer to the Agilent
Technologies USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide, located on the
Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with your product.
The following steps will help you quickly get started connecting and
configuring your instrument on a local area network (LAN). The two
types of local area networks connections that are discussed in this
section are site networks and private networks.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 53
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
character serial number located on the label on the side
H1234 is
Connecting to a Site LAN
A site LAN is a local area network in which LAN-enabled instruments
and computers are connected to the network through routers, hubs,
and/or switches. They are typically large, centrally-managed
networks with services such as DHCP and DNS servers.
1 If you have not already done so, install the Agilent IO Libraries
2 Connect the instrument to the site LAN. Provided that your
Suite from the Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with
your product.
network has a DHCP server and uses Dynamic DNS naming
service, the instrument will automatically obtain an IP address
from the network. This may take up to one minute. It will also
register its hostname with the dynamic DNS server. The default
hostname can then be used to communicate with the instrument.
The front panel LAN indicator will come on when the LAN port
has been configured. If you are unable to communicate with the
instrument, check that a valid IP address has been assigned.
Press the front panel LAN button to view the IP address.
NOTE
NOTE
Each Agilent N8700 power supply is shipped with a default hostname with the
format: A-modelnumber-serialnumber where modelnumber is the instrument’s
6-character model number (e.g. N8741A), and serialnumber is 5th through the
9th character of the 10of the unit (e.g. H1234 if the serial number is US24H12345). A-N8741Aan example of a hostname.
3 Use the Connection Expert utility of the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite to add the N8700 power supply and verify a connection. To
add the instrument, you can request the Connection Expert to
discover the instrument. If the instrument cannot be found, you
can add the instrument using the instrument’s hostname.
If this does not work, refer to the chapter on “Troubleshooting Guidelines” in
the Agilent Technologies USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide.
4 You can now use Interactive IO within the Connection Expert to
communicate with your instrument, or you can program your
instrument using the various programming environments. You
can also use the Web browser on your computer to communicate
with the instrument as described under “Using the Web Server”
later in this chapter.
54 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
it may still retain previous network settings from the site LAN. Wait one minute after
Connecting to a Private LAN:
A private LAN is a network in which LAN-enabled instruments and
computers are directly connected, and not connected to a site LAN.
They are typically small, with no centrally-managed resources.
1 If you have not already done so, install the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite from the Automation-Ready CD-ROM that is shipped with
your product.
2 Connect the instrument to the computer using a LAN crossover
cable. Alternatively, connect the computer and the instrument to
a standalone hub or switch using regular LAN cables.
NOTE
Make sure your computer is configured to obtain its address from DHCP and that
NetBIOS over TCP/IP is enabled. If the computer had been connected to a site LAN,
disconnecting it from the site LAN before connecting it to the private LAN. This
allows Windows to sense that it is on a different network and restart the network
configuration. If you are running Windows 98, you may need to manually release the
previous settings.
3 The factory-shipped instrument LAN settings are configured to
automatically obtain an IP address from the network using a
DHCP server, or using AutoIP if a DHCP server is not present.
You can leave these settings as they are. Most Agilent products
and most computers will automatically choose an IP address
using auto-IP if a DHCP server is not present. Each assigns itself
an IP address from the block 169.254.nnn. Note that this may
take up to one minute.
The front panel LAN indicator will come on when the LAN port
has been configured. If you are unable to communicate with the
instrument, check that a valid IP address has been assigned.
Press the front panel LAN button to view the IP address.
4 Use the Connection Expert utility of the Agilent IO Libraries
Suite to add the N8700 power supply and verify a connection. To
add the instrument, you can request the Connection Expert to
discover the instrument. If the instrument cannot be found, you
can add the instrument using the instrument’s hostname. The
default hostname is described under “Connecting to a Site LAN”.
NOTE
Series N8700 User’s Guide 55
If this does not work, refer to the chapter on “Troubleshooting Guidelines” in the
Agilent Technologies USB/LAN/GPIB Interfaces Connectivity Guide.
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
5 You can now use Interactive IO within the Connection Expert to
LAN Communication
The Agilent IO Libraries Suite along with instrument drivers for
specific programming environments can be used to communicate
with your power supply. Your can also communicate with your power
supply using its built-in Web server, the Telnet utility, or sockets.
These latter methods are a convenient way to communicate with the
power supply without using I/O libraries or drivers.
Ethernet Connection Monitoring
Agilent N8700 power supplies that have the LXI label on the front
panel provide Ethernet connection monitoring. With Ethernet
connection monitoring, the instrument’s LAN port is continually
monitored, and automatically reconfigured when the instrument is
unplugged for a minimum of 20 seconds and then reconnected to a
network. The front panel LAN indicator will come on when the LAN
port is connected and configured.
communicate with your instrument, or you can program your
instrument using the various programming environments. You
can also use the Web browser on your computer to communicate
with the instrument as described under “Using the Web Server”.
NOTE
Using the Web Server
Your power supply has a built-in Web server that lets you control it
directly from an internet browser on your computer. With the Web
server, you can control and configure all of the front panel functions
as well as additional functions such as triggering and the LAN
parameters, which are not available from the front panel.
The built-in Web server only operates over the LAN interface. It requires Internet
Explorer 7+. You also need the Java Plug-in version 7+. This is included in the
Java Runtime Environment.
The Web server is enabled when shipped. To launch the Web server:
1 Open the internet browser on your computer.
2 Select Connections in the Tools menu, under Internet Options.
Then select LAN Settings and make sure that the Bypass proxy
server for local addresses box is checked.
3 Enter the instrument’s hostname into the browser’s Address field
to launch the Web server. The following home page will appear.
4 Click on the Browser Web Control button in the navigation bar
on the left to begin controlling your instrument.
5 For additional help about any of the pages, click on the Help with
this Page button.
56 Series N8700 User’s Guide
If desired, you can control access to the Web server using password
protection. As shipped from the factory, no password is set. To set a
password, refer to the section “Configuring the LAN Parameters”.
Using Telnet
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
In an MS-DOS Command Prompt box type: telnet hostname 5024
where hostname is the N8700 hostname or IP address, and 5024 is
the instrument’s telnet port.
You should get a Telnet session box with a title indicating that you
are connected to the power supply. Type the SCPI commands at the
prompt.
Using Sockets
Agilent instruments have standardized on using port 5025 for SCPI
socket services. A data socket on this port can be used to send and
receive ASCII/SCPI commands, queries, and query responses. All
commands must be terminated with a newline for the message to be
parsed. All query responses will also be terminated with a newline.
The power supply allows any combination of up to three
simultaneous data socket and telnet connections to be made.
The socket programming interface also allows a control socket
connection. The control socket can be used by a client to send device
clear and to receive service requests. Unlike the data socket, which
uses a fixed port number, the port number for a control socket varies
and must be obtained by sending the following SCPI query to the data
socket: SYSTem:COMMunicate:TCPip:CONTrol?
After the control port number is obtained, a control socket
connection can be opened. As with the data socket, all commands to
the control socket must be terminated with a newline. All query
responses will also be terminated with a newline.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 57
To send a device clear, send the string “DCL” to the control socket.
When the power supply has finished performing the device clear it
echoes the string “DCL” back to the control socket.
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
instrument by entering values in the following three fields.
decimal number ranges from 0 through 255.
Service requests are enabled for control sockets using the Service
Request Enable register. Once service requests have been enabled,
the client program listens on the control connection. When SRQ goes
true the instrument will send the string “SRQ +nn” to the client. The
“nn” is the status byte value, which the client can use to determine
the source of the service request.
Configuring the LAN Parameters
To configure the LAN parameters from the instrument’s Web server,
launch the Web server as previously described, and click on the View
& Modify Configuration tab on the left side of the page. Then click on
the Modify Configuration button on the top of the page. The following
screen lets you modify the LAN parameters:
Obtain IP
Address
IP Address This value is the Internet Protocol (IP) address of the instrument. An IP
58 Series N8700 User’s Guide
The configurable LAN parameters are described as follows:
This parameter configures the addressing of the instrument. Auto
automatically configures the addressing. When selected, the instrument first
tries to obtain an IP address from a DHCP server. If a DHCP server is found,
the DHCP server assigns an IP address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway to
the instrument. If a DHCP server is unavailable, the instrument tries to obtain
an IP address using AutoIP. AutoIP automatically assigns an IP address,
Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway addresses on networks that do not have a
DHCP server. Manual allows you to manually configure the addressing of the
address is required for all IP and TCP/IP communications with the instrument.
An IP Address consists of 4 decimal numbers separated by periods. Each
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
all packets must be sent to the Default Gateway.
by the subnet mask setting.
server address from DHCP. Manual uses the DNS server in the following field.
to find and display its hostname.
registered using the Dynamic DNS naming system.
of the 10-character serial number located on the label on the side of the unit.
dashes(-) and dots(.).
used as the title of the instrument’s Web home page.
Keepalive function. Allowed values: 720-99999 seconds.
configured using the instrument's front panel.
letter. If the fields are blank, password checking is disabled.
Subnet Mask
This value is used to enable the instrument to determine if a client IP address
is on the same local subnet. When a client IP address is on a different subnet,
Default
Gateway
This value is the IP Address of the default gateway that allows the instrument
to communicate with systems that are not on the local subnet, as determined
DNS DNS is an internet service that translates domain names into IP addresses.
This parameter indicates whether the IP address of the Domain Name System
(DNS) server is obtained automatically or manually. Auto obtains the DNS
DNS Server This value is the address of the Domain Name System (DNS) server. If DHCP
is disabled, the DNS server parameter is needed for the instrument to be able
Naming
Service
This parameter specifies the Naming service, if any, to be used to register the
instrument. NetBIOS indicates the instrument will be registered using the RFC
NetBIOS naming protocol. Dynamic DNS indicates the instrument will be
Host Name This field registers the supplied name with the selected naming service. If the
field is blank, no name is registered. A hostname may contain upper and lower
case letters, numbers and dashes(-). The maximum length is 15 characters.
The format is A-modelnumber-serialnumber. Modelnumber is the instrument’s
6-character model number, and serialnumber is 5th through the 9th character
Domain This field registers the Internet domain for the instrument. The Domain must
start with a letter and may contain upper and lower case letters, numbers,
Description This field lets you assign a user-friendly name to the instrument. This name is
LAN
Keepalive
Timeout
This value sets the LAN keepalive in seconds. The instrument uses the LAN
keepalive timer to determine if a client is still reachable. If there has been no
activity on the connection after the specified time, the instrument will send
keepalive probes to the client to determine if it is still alive. If not, the
connection will be marked as down or "dropped." The instrument will release
any resources that were allocated to that client. When setting this parameter,
it is recommended that the largest value be used that still meets the
application's need for unreachable client detection. Smaller keepalive timeout
values will generate more keepalive probes (network traffic), using more of the
available network bandwidth. Check the Enable box to enable the LAN
GPIB Address This field shows the instrument's GPIB bus address. The GPIB address can be
Change
Password
This field lets you change the Web password. Enter the old password to
confirm access. Enter the new password in the Enter New field and in the
Confirm New field. The password can be up to 12 alpha-numeric characters
(letters, numbers, underscore); case insensitive. The first character must be a
Series N8700 User’s Guide 59
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
Factory-shipped non-volatile LAN settings
Get IP Address
Automatic
Dynamic DNS naming service
Enabled
IP Address
169.254.57.0
NetBIOS naming service
Enabled
Subnet Mask
255.255.0.0
Domain name
Blank
Default Gateway
0.0.0.0
TCP keepalive
Enabled
Obtain DNS server from DHCP
Enabled
TCP keepalive seconds
1800
DNS server
Blank
Ethernet Auto-negotiation
Enabled
Host name
A-N87xxA-xxxxx
Ping server
Enabled
Web password
Blank
Factory-shipped LAN Settings
The factory-shipped LAN settings documented in the following table
are optimized for connecting your power supply to a site network.
They should also work well for other network configurations.
The factory-shipped settings can be restored by pressing and holding
the front panel LAN button for three seconds. Pressing the LAN
button again while the message “LAn rES” is displayed resets the
LAN settings.
Using the Setup Utility
A Setup utility that lets you configure the LAN settings of your
instrument is provided on the Product Reference CD-ROM included
with this manual. Install and run this Setup utility if you cannot
configure the LAN interface as previously described in this section.
Note that the utility requires the Agilent IO Libraries Suite.
1 Connect your power supply to your computer using either the
USB interface or the GPIB interface as previously described.
2 Install the Setup utility on your computer. Run the Setup utility
by clicking Start|Programs|Agilent|N8700 Setup Utility.
3 Configure the following LAN address parameters. These are
located under the Settings tab. For a description of these
parameters, refer to the previous section.
60 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
4 Enable the LAN and, optionally, the built-in Web server using the
applicable check boxes.
5 Click the Set button to save all the settings information.
6 Connect the LAN cable to your instrument and computer. Reboot
the instrument. Wait for the instrument to configure the new
LAN settings.
7 View the LAN settings by clicking the LAN Status tab. Click the
Refresh button to update the display with the assigned IP
Address and Subnet Mask.
8 You can view information about the GPIB or USB interface by
clicking the Connections tab.
You can also use the Setup utility to view model-specific information
about your power supply. Click the Model About tab to view the
model number, serial number, active firmware version, backup
firmware version, and output ratings.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 61
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
[SOURce:]
CURRent
[:LEVel]
[:IMMediate] <NRf+>
:TRIGgered <NRf+>
:PROTection
:STATe <Bool>
means that SOURce: may be omitted.
indicates a specific form of numerical data.
Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example, VOLT | CURR indicates
that either "VOLT" or "CURR" can be used as a parameter.
SCPI Commands – an Introduction
SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is an
ASCII-based instrument command language designed for test and
measurement instruments. SCPI commands are based on a
hierarchical structure, also known as a tree system. In this system,
associated commands are grouped together under a common node or
root, thus forming subsystems. Subsystem commands perform
specific power supply functions. A portion of the SOURce subsystem
is shown below to illustrate the tree system.
SOURce is the root keyword of the command, CURRent is a secondlevel keyword, LEVel and PROTection are third-level keywords, and
IMMediate, TRIGgered and STATe are fourth-level keywords. Colons
(:) separate higher-level from lower-level keywords.
Syntax
The following command syntax is used in this manual:
Square Brackets [ ]
Items within square brackets are optional. The representation [SOURce:]VOLTage
Angle brackets < > Items within angle brackets are parameter descriptions. For example, <NR1>
Vertical bar |
The syntax characters cannot be included in the command string.
Multiple Commands in a Message
Multiple SCPI commands can be combined and sent as a single
message with one message terminator. There are two important
considerations when sending several commands within a single
message:
Use a semicolon (;) to separate commands within a message.
There is an implied path that affects how commands are
interpreted by the power supply.
The command path can be thought of as a string that gets inserted
before each keyword within a message. For the first command in a
message, the path is a null string. For each subsequent command the
path is defined as the characters that make up the keywords of the
62 Series N8700 User’s Guide
previous command in the message up to and including the last colon
separator. An example of a message with two commands is:
OUTPut:STATe ON;PROTection:CLEar
which shows the use of the semicolon separating the two commands,
and also illustrates the command path concept. Note that with the
second command, the leading keyword OUTPut was omitted because
after the OUTPut:STATe ON command, the path became defined as
OUTPut, and thus the second command was interpreted as:
OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar
In fact, it would have been incorrect to include the OUTPut keyword
in the second command, because the result after combining it with
the command path would be:
OUTPut:OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar
which would result in a syntax error.
Commands from Different Subsystems
In order to combine commands from different subsystems, you need
to be able to reset the command path to a null string within a
message. Beginning the command with a colon (:), discards the
previous path. For example, you could clear the output protection
and check the status of the Operation Condition register in one
message by using a root specifier as follows:
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
Message Unit
OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar;:STATus:OPERation:CONDition?
The following message shows how to combine commands from
different subsystems as well as within the same subsystem.
VOLTage:LEVel 7.5;PROTection 10;:CURRent:LEVel 0.25
Note the use of the optional keyword LEVel to maintain the correct
path within the subsystems, and the use of the root specifier (:) to
move between subsystems.
The simplest SCPI command is a single message unit consisting of a
keyword followed by a message terminator such as newline. The
message unit may include a parameter after the keyword. The
parameter can be numeric or a string.
ABORt<NL>
VOLTage 20<NL>
VOLTage:TRIGgered MINimum<NL>
Colons (:) separate higher-level keywords from lower-level keywords.
Use a blank space to separate parameters from keywords. If a
command requires more than one parameter, use commas to
separate adjacent parameters.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 63
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
In the previous examples, the upper-case letters indicate the
abbreviated spelling for the keyword. For shorter program lines, you
can send the abbreviated form. For better program readability, you
can send the long form. For example, VOLT and VOLTage are both
acceptable forms. You can use upper- or lower-case letters. Therefore,
VOLTAGE, Volt, and volt are all acceptable. Other forms, such as VOL
and VOLTAG, generate an error.
Queries
You can query the current value of most commands by adding a
question mark to the command (VOLTage?, VOLTage:TRIGgered?). If
a query contains a parameter, place the query indicator at the end of
the last keyword. Observe the following precautions with queries:
Add a blank space between the query indicator (?) and any
Set up the proper number of variables for the returned data.
Read back all the results of a query before sending another
subsequent parameter. (VOLTage:TRIGgered? MAX)
command to the power supply. Otherwise a Query Interrupted
error will occur and the unreturned data will be lost.
Common Commands
Common commands generally control overall power supply
functions, such as reset, status, and synchronization. All common
commands consist of a three-letter mnemonic preceded by an
asterisk: *RST *IDN? *SRE 8
You can combine common commands with subsystem commands in
the same message. Use semicolons to separate the common command
from the subsystem commands. Common commands do not affect the
command path; you may insert them anywhere in the message.
VOLTage:TRIGgered 10;:INITiate;*TRG
OUTPut OFF;*RCL 2;OUTPut ON
Command Terminators
A terminator informs SCPI that it has reached the end of a command.
Three permitted command terminators are:
newline (<NL>), which is ASCII decimal 10 or hex 0A.
end or identify (<END>)
both of the above (<NL><END>).
In the examples of this guide, the message terminator is assumed.
64 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Parameter Types
Symbol
Response Formats
least-significant digit. Examples: 273
Common Multipliers
Symbol
Response Formats
the short form of the parameter is returned.
Data programmed or queried from the power supply is ASCII. The
data may be numerical or character string.
Numeric Parameters
Operating the Power Supply Remotely 4
<NR1> Digits with an implied decimal point assumed at the right of the
<NR2> Digits with an explicit decimal point. Example: 27.3
<NR3> Digits with an explicit decimal point and an exponent. Example:
2.73E+02
Parameter Formats
<NRf> Extended format that includes <NR1>, <NR2> and <NR3>.
Examples: 273 27.3 2.73E+02
<NRf+> Expanded decimal format that includes <NRf> and MIN, MAX.
Examples: 273 27.3 2.73E+02 MAX.
MIN and MAX are the minimum and maximum limit values that
are implicit in the range specification for the parameter.
<Bool> Boolean Data. Can be numeric (0, 1), or named (OFF, ON).
<SPD> String program data. String parameters enclosed in single or
double quotes.
Suffixes and Multipliers
Class Suffix Unit Unit with Multiplier
Current A ampere MA (milliampere)
Amplitude V volt MV (millivolt)
Time S second MS (millisecond)
1E3 K kilo
1E-3 M milli
1E-6 U micro
Response Data Types
<CRD> Character Response Data. Returns discrete parameters. Only
<AARD> Arbitrary ASCII Response Data. Permits the return of
undelimited 7-bit ASCII. This data type has an implied message
terminator.
<SRD> String Response Data. Returns string parameters enclosed in
double quotes.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 65
4 Operating the Power Supply Remotely
OUTPut:STATe
INITiate
VOLTage
OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar
CURRent
*WAI
OUTPut ON;*WAI;:MEASure:VOLTage?
complete before proceeding with its program.
*OPC
interrupt basis, *OPC allows subsequent commands to be executed.
SCPI Command Completion
SCPI commands sent to the power supply are processed either
sequentially or in parallel. Sequential commands finish execution
before a subsequent command begins. Parallel commands allow other
commands to begin executing while the parallel command is still
executing.
The following is a list of parallel commands. You should use some
form of command synchronization as discussed in this section before
assuming that these commands have completed.
The *WAI, *OPC, and *OPC? common commands provide different
ways of indicating when all transmitted commands, including any
parallel ones, have completed their operations. Some practical
considerations for using these commands are as follows:
This command prevents the power supply from processing subsequent
commands until all pending operations are completed. For example,
the *WAI command can be used to make a voltage measurement after
an output on command has completed:
*OPC?
NOTE
This command places a 1 in the Output Queue when all pending
operations have completed. Because it requires your program to read
the returned value before executing the next program statement,
*OPC? can be used to cause the controller to wait for commands to
This command sets the OPC status bit when all pending operations
have completed. Since your program can read this status bit on an
The trigger subsystem must be in the Idle state for the status OPC bit to be
true. As far as triggers are concerned, OPC is false whenever the trigger
subsystem is in the Initiated state.
Device Clear
You can send a Device Clear at any time to abort a SCPI command
that may be hanging up the GPIB interface. Device Clear clears the
input and output buffers of the power supply. The status registers,
error queue, and all configuration states are left unchanged by Device
Clear. Device Clear also prepares the power supply to accept a new
command string. The following statement shows how to send a device
clear over the GPIB interface using Agilent BASIC:
CLEAR 705 IEEE-488 Device Clear
66 Series N8700 User’s Guide
5
Language Reference
SCPI Command Summary ................................................................................ 68
Calibration Commands ..................................................................................... 70
Measure Commands......................................................................................... 71
Output Commands ............................................................................................ 72
Source Commands ............................................................................................ 73
Status Commands ............................................................................................. 75
System Commands ........................................................................................... 81
Trigger Commands ............................................................................................ 83
This section gives the syntax and parameters for all the IEEE 488.2
SCPI Subsystem commands and Common commands used by the
power supply. It is assumed that you are familiar with the material in
chapter 4, which explains the terms, symbols, and syntactical
structures used here and gives an introduction to programming. You
should also be familiar with chapter 3, in order to understand how
the power supply functions.
Subsystem commands are specific to functions. They can be a single
command or a group of commands. The groups are comprised of
commands that extend one or more levels below the root. The
subsystem commands are arranged alphabetically according to the
function they perform.
Common commands begin with an * and consist of three letters
(command) or three letters and a ? (query). They are defined by the
IEEE 488.2 standard to perform common interface functions.
Common commands are grouped along with the subsystem
commands according to the function they perform.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 67
5 Language Reference
SCPI Command
Description
ABORt
Aborts the triggered action
CALibrate
:CURRent[:LEVel]
Calibrates the output current programming
:DATA <NRf>
Enters the calibration value
:DATE <”SPD”>
Sets the calibration date
:LEVel P1 | P2
Advances to the next calibration step
:PASSword <NRf>
Sets the numeric calibration password
:STATE <Bool> [,<NRf>]
Enables/disables calibration mode
:VOLTage[:LEVel]
Calibrates the output voltage programming
INITiate
[:IMMediate][:TRANsient]
Initiates the trigger system
:CONTinuous[:TRANsient]
Enables/disables continuous triggers
MEASure
[:SCALar]
:CURRent[:DC]?
Returns the measured output current
:VOLTage[:DC]?
Returns the measured output voltage
OUTPut
[:STATe] <Bool>
Enables/disables the specified output
:PON
:STATe RST | AUTO
Programs the Power-On State
:PROTection
:CLEar
Resets latched protection
[SOURce:]
CURRent
[:LEVel]
[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <NRf+>
Sets the output current
:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <NRf+>
Sets the triggered output current
:PROTection
:STATe <Bool>
Enables/disables over-current protection
VOLTage
[:LEVel]
[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <NRf+>
Sets the output voltage
:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <NRf+>
Sets the triggered output voltage
:LIMit
:LOW <NRf+>
Sets the low-voltage limit
:PROTection
[:LEVel] <NRf+>
Sets the over-voltage protection level
SCPI Command Summary
NOTE
Some [optional] commands have been included for clarity. All settings commands
have a corresponding query.
Subsystem Commands
68 Series N8700 User’s Guide
SCPI Command Description
STATus
:OPERation
[:EVENt]?
Returns the value of the operation event register
:CONDition?
Returns the value of the operation condition register
:ENABle <NRf>
Enables specific bits in the Event register
:NTRansition<NRf>
Sets the Negative transition filter
:PTRansition<NRf>
Sets the Positive transition filter
:PRESet
Presets all enable and transition registers to power-on
:QUEStionable
[:EVENt]?
Returns the value of the questionable event register
:CONDition?
Returns the value of the questionable condition register
:ENABle <NRf>
Enables specific bits in the Event register
:NTRansition<NRf>
Sets the Negative transition filter
:PTRansition<NRf>
Sets the Positive transition filter
SYSTem
:COMMunicate
:RLSTate LOCal | REMote | RWLock
Specifies the Remote/Local state of the instrument
:ERRor?
Returns the error number and error string
:VERSion?
Returns the SCPI version number
TRIGger
:SOURce BUS
Sets the transient trigger source
[:TRANsient][:IMMediate]
Generates a transient trigger
Command
Description
*CLS
Clear status
*ESE <NRf>
Standard event status enable
*ESE?
Return standard event status enable
*ESR?
Return event status register
*IDN?
Return instrument identification
*OPC
Enable "operation complete" bit in ESR
*OPC?
Return a "1" when operation complete
*OPT?
Return option number
*RCL <NRf>
Recalls a saved instrument state
*RST
Reset
*SAV <NRf>
Saves an instrument state
*SRE <NRf>
Set service request enable register
*SRE?
Return service request enable register
*STB?
Return status byte
*TRG
Trigger
*TST
Performs self-test, then returns result
*WAI
Holds off bus until all device commands done
Language Reference 5
Common Commands
Series N8700 User’s Guide 69
5 Language Reference
Calibration Commands
Calibration commands let you enable and disable the calibration
mode, change the calibration password, calibrate current and voltage
programming, and store new calibration constants in nonvolatile
memory.
NOTE
If calibration mode has not been enabled with CALibrate:STATe, the calibration
commands will generate an error.
CALibrate:CURRent[:LEVel]
This command initiates the calibration of the output current.
CALibrate:DATA <value>
This command enters a calibration value that you obtain by reading
an external meter. You must first select a calibration level (with
CALibrate:LEVel) for the value being entered. Data values are
entered in either volts or amperes, depending on which function is
being calibrated.
CALibrate:DATE <“date”>
CALibrate:DATE?
This command stores the date the unit was last calibrated. The data
must be of the numeric format “yyyy/mm/dd” where yyyy indicates
the year, mm indicates the month, and dd indicates the day. The
query returns the date.
CALibrate:LEVel P1|P2
This command selects the next point in the calibration sequence.
P1 is the first calibration point,
P2 is the second calibration point.
CALibrate:PASSword <password>
This command lets you change the calibration password. A new
password is automatically stored in nonvolatile memory. If the
password is set to 0, password protection is removed and the ability
to enter calibration mode is unrestricted. The default password is 0
(zero).
70 Series N8700 User’s Guide
CALibrate:STATe ON|OFF [,<password>]
CALibrate:STATe?
This command enables/disables calibration mode. Calibration mode
must be enabled for the power supply to accept any other calibration
commands. The first parameter specifies the enabled or disabled
state On (1) or Off (0). The second parameter is the password.
A password is required if calibration mode is being enabled and the
existing password is not 0. If the password is not entered or is
incorrect, an error is generated and the calibration mode remains
disabled. The query returns only the state, not the password.
The *RST value = Off.
CALibrate:VOLTage[:LEVel]
This command initiates the calibration of the output voltage.
Language Reference 5
Measure Commands
MEASure[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]?
MEASure[:SCALar]:VOLTage[:DC]?
Measure commands measure the output voltage or current. MEASure
commands acquire new data before returning the reading.
Measurement overflows return a reading of 9.91E+37.
These queries perform a measurement and return the DC output
current in amperes or DC output voltage in volts.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 71
5 Language Reference
Output Commands
OUTPut[:STATe] ON|OFF
OUTPut[:STATe]?
OUTPut:PON:STATe RST|AUTO
OUTPut:PON:STATe?
Output commands enable the output, power-on, and protection
functions.
This command enables or disables the specified output(s). The
enabled state is On (1); the disabled state is Off (0). The state of a
disabled output is a condition of zero output voltage and a zero
source current (see *RST). The query returns 0 if the output is off,
and 1 if the output is on. The *RST value = Off.
This command determines if the power-on state will be determined
by the reset state, or the settings the unit had when it was turned off.
RST programs the unit to the reset state; AUTO programs the unit to
the settings it had when it was turned off. The power-on state
information is saved on non-volatile memory.
Refer to *RST and *RCL under System Commands for details.
OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar
This command clears the latched signals that have disabled the
output. The over-voltage and over-current conditions are always
latching. The over-temperature condition, AC-fail condition, Enable
pins, and SO pins are latching if OUTPut:PON:STATe is RST, and nonlatching if OUTPut:PON:STATe is AUTO.
All conditions that generate the fault must be removed before the
latch can be cleared. The output is then restored to the state it was in
before the fault condition occurred.
72 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Language Reference 5
Model ( I rating)
400A
330A
220A
165A
110A
85A
55A
42A
33A
22A
11A
5.5A
Minimum current
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0
Maximum current
420
346.5
231
173.25
115.5
89.25
57.75
44.1
34.65
23.1
11.55
5.775
Model ( I rating)
250A
170A
125A
85A
65A
50A
34A
17A
8.5A
Minimum current
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maximum current
262.5
178.5
131.25
89.25
68.25
52.5
35.7
17.85
8.925
Source Commands
Source commands program the voltage, current, triggered, and
protection functions.
[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
These commands set the immediate and the triggered output current.
Values are programmed in amperes. The immediate level is the
output current setting. The triggered level is a stored value that
transfers to the output when a trigger occurs. The *RST values = Min.
[SOURce:]CURRent:PROTection:STATe ON|OFF
[SOURce:]CURRent:PROTection:STATe?
This command enables or disables the over-current protection (OCP)
function. The enabled state is On (1); the disabled state is Off (0). If
the over-current protection function is enabled and the output goes
into constant current operation, the output is disabled and OC is set
in the Questionable Condition status register. The *RST value = Off.
An over-current condition can be cleared with the Output Protection
Clear command after the cause of the condition is removed.
[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
These commands set the immediate and the triggered output voltage.
Values are programmed in volts. The immediate level is the output
voltage setting. The triggered level is a stored value that transfers to
the output when a trigger occurs. The *RST values = Min.
The range of values that can be programmed for these commands is
coupled with the voltage protection and the voltage limit low settings.
The maximum value for the immediate and triggered voltage level is
either the value in the following table, or the voltage protection
setting divided by 1.05; whichever is lower. The minimum value is
either the value in the table, or the low voltage setting divided by
0.95; whichever is higher.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 73
5 Language Reference
Model (V rating)
8V
10V
15V
20V
30V
40V
60V
80V
100V
150V
300V
600V
Minimum voltage
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maximum voltage
8.4
10.5
15.75
21
31.5
42
63
84
105
157.5
315
630
Model (V rating)
8V
10V
15V
20V
30V
40V
60V
80V
100V
150V
300V
600V
Maximum low limit
7.6
9.5
14.25
19
28.5
38
57
76
95
142
285
570
Model (V rating)
8V
10V
15V
20V
30V
40V
60V
80V
100V
150V
300V
600V
[SOURce:]VOLTage:LIMit:LOW <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]VOLTage:LIMit:LOW? [MIN|MAX]
Note that triggered values can be programmed outside these limits,
but an error will be generated when the trigger occurs.
This command sets the low voltage limit of the output. When a low
voltage limit has been set, the instrument will ignore any
programming commands that attempt to set the output voltage below
the low voltage limit. The*RST value = Min.
The range of values that can be programmed for this command is
coupled with the immediate voltage level setting. The maximum value
for the low voltage limit is either the value in the following table, or
the immediate voltage setting multiplied by 0.95; whichever is lower.
The minimum setting is the value in the table.
Minimum low limit 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:LEVel <value>|MIN|MAX
[SOURce:]VOLTage:PROTection:LEVel? [MIN|MAX]
This command sets the over-voltage protection (OVP) level of the
output. The values are programmed in volts. If the output voltage
exceeds the OVP level, the output is disabled and OV is set in the
Questionable Condition status register. The*RST value = Max.
The range of values that can be programmed for this command is
coupled with the immediate voltage level setting. The minimum value
for the voltage protection level is either the value in the following
table, or the immediate voltage setting multiplied by 1.05; whichever
is higher. The maximum setting is the value in the table.
An over-voltage condition can be cleared with the Output Protection
Clear command after the condition that caused the OVP trip is
removed.
Min. protection limit 0.5 0.5 1.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0
Max. protection limit 10 12 18 24 36 44 66 88 110 165 330 660
74 Series N8700 User’s Guide
LOGICAL
OR
LOGICAL
OR
PON
CME
EXE
DDE
QYE
OPC
0
2
3
4
5
7
1
4
8
16
32
128
1
4
8
16
32
128
EVENT ENABLE
STANDARD EVENT
STATUS
STATUS BYTE
SERVICE
REQUEST
ENABLE
LOGICAL
OR
SERVICE
REQUEST
GENERATION
8
16
32
128
8
16
32
128
RQS
OPER
MSS
ESB
MAV
QUES
4
5
6
7
UNR
OT
OV
0
4
QUESTIONABLE STATUS
10
CONDITION
LOGICAL
OR
EVENT ENABLE
PTR/NTR
1
16
1024
1
16
1024
1
16
1024
1
16
1024
3
CONDITION
5
8
PTR/NTR EVENT
ENABLE
CV
CC
32
256
OC
1
WTG
OPERATION STATUS
PF
2
4 4
2
4
4
2
2 2
INH9512
512
512
512
64
10
1024
256
1024
256
1024
256
1024
OUTPUT BUFFER
QUEUE
NOT
EMPTY
Data
Data
Data
*STB?
*SRE<n>
*SRE?
*ESR?
STAT:QUES:COND?
*ESE<n>
*ESE?
STAT:QUES:PTR |: NTR <n>
STAT:QUES:PTR |: NTR ?
STAT:QUES:EVEN?
STAT:QUES:ENAB <n>
STAT:QUES:ENAB
STAT:OPER:COND?
STAT:OPER:EVEN?
STAT:OPER:ENAB <n>
STAT:OPER:ENAB
STAT:OPER:PTR |: NTR <n>
STAT:OPER:PTR |: NTR ?
32 32
32
ERROR QUEUE
QUEUE
NOT
EMPTY
Err
Err
Err
44
2
ERROR
Status Commands
Language Reference 5
Status commands program the power supply’s status registers. As
shown in the following figure, the power supply has three groups of
status registers; Operation, Questionable, and Standard Event. The
Operation and Questionable status groups each consist of the
Condition, Enable, and Event registers and NTR and PTR filters.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 75
5 Language Reference
STATus:PRESet
STATus:OPERation[:EVENt]?
The Standard Event group is programmed with Common commands
as described later in this section. Common commands also control
additional status functions such as the Service Request Enable and
the Status Byte registers.
This command sets all defined bits in the Operation and Questionable
PTR registers. The command clears all defined bits in the Operation
and Questionable NTR and Enable registers.
This query returns the value of the Operation Event register. The
Event register is a read-only register, which stores (latches) all events
that are passed by the Operation NTR and/or PTR filter. Reading the
Operation Event register clears it. The bit configuration of the
Operation status registers is as follows:
Bit Position 15-11 10 9 8 7-6 5 4-0
Bit Value
Bit Name
CC = The output is in constant current
CV = The output is in constant voltage
WTG = The unit is waiting for a transient trigger
−
−
1024
CC
−
−
256
CV
−
−
32
WTG
−
−
STATus:OPERation:CONDition?
This query returns the value of the Operation Condition register.
That is a read-only register, which holds the live (unlatched)
operational status of the power supply.
STATus:OPERation:ENABle <value>
STATus:OPERation:ENABle?
This command and its query set and read the value of the
Operational Enable register. This register is a mask for enabling
specific bits from the Operation Event register to set the operation
summary bit (OPER) of the Status Byte register. This bit (bit 7) is the
logical OR of all the Operational Event register bits that are enabled
by the Status Operation Enable register. The Preset value = 0.
76 Series N8700 User’s Guide
STATus:OPERation:NTR <value>
STATus:OPERation:PTR <value>
STATus:OPERation:NTR?
STATus:OPERation:PTR?
These commands set or read the value of the Operation NTR
(Negative-Transition) and PTR (Positive-Transition) registers. These
registers serve as polarity filters between the Operation Condition
and Operation Event registers to cause the following actions:
When a bit in the Operation NTR register is set to 1, then a 1-to-0
transition of the corresponding bit in the Operation Condition
register causes that bit in the Operation Event register to be set.
When a bit of the Operation PTR register is set to 1, then a 0-to-1
transition of the corresponding bit in the Operation Condition
register causes that bit in the Operation Event register to be set.
If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 1, then
any transition of that bit at the Operation Condition register sets
the corresponding bit in the Operation Event register.
If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 0, then
no transition of that bit at the Operation Condition register can
set the corresponding bit in the Operation Event register.
Language Reference 5
The Preset value are: NTR = 0; PTR = 32767
STATus:QUEStionable[:EVENt]?
This query returns the value of the Questionable Event register. The
Event register is a read-only register, which stores (latches) all events
that are passed by the Questionable NTR and/or PTR filter. Reading
the Questionable Event register clears it. The bit configuration of the
Questionable status registers is as follows:
Bit Position 15-11 10 9 8-5 4 3 2 1 0
Bit Value
Bit Name
UNR = The output is unregulated
INH = The output is turned off by one of the external J1 inhibit signals
OT = The output is disabled by the over-temperature protection
PF = The output is disabled because AC power has failed
OC = The output is disabled by the over-current protection
OV = The output is disabled by the over-voltage protection
−
−
1024 512
UNR INH
STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition?
This query returns the value of the Questionable Condition register.
That is a read-only register, which holds the real-time (unlatched)
questionable status of the power supply.
−
−
16
OT
−
4 2 1
−
PF OC OV
Series N8700 User’s Guide 77
5 Language Reference
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle <value>
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle?
STATus:QUEStionable:NTR <value>
STATus:QUEStionable:PTR <value>
STATus:QUEStionable:NTR?
STATus:QUEStionable:PTR?
This command and its query set and read the value of the
Questionable Enable register. This register is a mask for enabling
specific bits from the Questionable Event register to set the
questionable summary bit (QUES) of the Status Byte register. This bit
(bit 3) is the logical OR of all the Questionable Event register bits that
are enabled by the Questionable Status Enable register. The Preset
value = 0.
These commands set or read the value of the Questionable NTR
(Negative-Transition) and PTR (Positive-Transition) registers. These
registers serve as polarity filters between the Questionable Condition
and Questionable Event registers to cause the following actions:
When a bit of the Questionable NTR register is set to 1, then a 1-
to-0 transition of the corresponding bit of the Questionable
Condition register causes that bit in the Questionable Event
register to be set.
*CLS
When a bit of the Questionable PTR register is set to 1, then a 0-
to-1 transition of the corresponding bit in the Questionable
Condition register causes that bit in the Questionable Event
register to be set.
If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 1, then
any transition of that bit at the Questionable Condition register
sets the corresponding bit in the Questionable Event register.
If the same bits in both NTR and PTR registers are set to 0, then
no transition of that bit at the Questionable Condition register
can set the corresponding bit in the Questionable Event register.
The Preset values are: NTR = 0; PTR = 32767
This command causes the following actions on the status system:
Clears the Standard Event Status, Operation Status Event, and
Questionable Status Event registers
Clears the Status Byte and the Error Queue
If *CLS immediately follows a program message terminator
(<NL>), then the output queue and the MAV bit are also cleared.
78 Series N8700 User’s Guide
*ESE
Bit Position
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0
*ESE?
Language Reference 5
This command programs the Standard Event Status Enable register
bits. The programming determines which events of the Standard
Event Status Event register (see *ESR?) are allowed to set the ESB
(Event Summary Bit) of the Status Byte register. A "1" in the bit
position enables the corresponding event.
All of the enabled events of the Standard Event Status Event Register
are logically OR-ed to cause the Event Summary Bit (ESB) of the
Status Byte Register to be set. The query reads the Standard Event
The query reads the Standard Event Status Enable register. The bit
configuration of the Standard Event register is as follows:
*ESR?
*OPC
*OPC?
Bit Value 128
Bit Name PON
PON = Power-on has occurred
CME = Command error
EXE = Execution error
This query reads the Standard Event Status Event register. Reading
the register clears it. The bit configuration is the same as the
Standard Event Status Enable register (see *ESE).
This command causes the instrument to set the OPC bit (bit 0) of the
Standard Event Status register when the instrument has completed
all pending operations. Pending operations are complete when:
All commands sent before *OPC have been executed. This
includes overlapped commands. Most commands are sequential
and are completed before the next command is executed.
Commands that affect output voltage, current or state, relays,
and trigger actions are executed in parallel (or overlapped) with
subsequent commands sent to the power supply. The *OPC
command provides notification that all overlapped commands
have been completed.
−
32 16 8 4
−
CME EXE DDE QUE
DDE = Device-dependent error
QUE = Query error
OPC = Operation complete
−
1
−
OPC
Series N8700 User’s Guide 79
All triggered actions are completed
*OPC does not prevent processing of subsequent commands, but bit 0
will not be set until all pending operations are completed.
*OPC? causes the instrument to place an ASCII "1" in the Output
Queue when all pending operations are completed. Unlike *OPC,
*OPC? prevents processing of all subsequent commands. It can be
used at the end of a command line so that the program can monitor
the bus for data until it receives the "1" from the Output Queue.
5 Language Reference
*SRE
*SRE?
*STB?
This command sets the condition of the Service Request Enable
Register. This register determines which bits from the Status Byte
Register are allowed to set the Master Status Summary (MSS) bit and
the Request for Service (RQS) summary bit. A 1 in any Service
Request Enable Register bit position enables the corresponding
Status Byte Register bit and all such enabled bits then are logically
OR-ed to cause Bit 6 of the Status Byte Register to be set.
When the controller conducts a serial poll in response to SRQ, the
RQS bit is cleared, but the MSS bit is not. When *SRE is cleared (by
programming it with 0), the power supply cannot generate an SRQ to
the controller. The query returns the current state of *SRE.
This query reads the Status Byte register, which contains the status
summary bits and the Output Queue MAV bit. Reading the Status
Byte register does not clear it. The input summary bits are cleared
when the appropriate event registers are read. The MAV bit is cleared
at power-on, by *CLS' or when there is no more response data
available.
*WAI
A serial poll also returns the value of the Status Byte register, except
that bit 6 returns Request for Service (RQS) instead of Master Status
Summary (MSS). A serial poll clears RQS, but not MSS. When MSS is
set, it indicates that the power supply has one or more reasons for
requesting service.
Bit Position 7 6 5 4 3 2
Bit Value 128 64 32 16 8 4
Bit Name OPER MSS
(RQS)
OPER = Operation status summary
MSS = Master status summary
(RQS) = Request for service
ESB = Event status byte summary
This command instructs the power supply not to process any further
commands until all pending operations are completed. Pending
operations are as defined under the *OPC command. *WAI can be
aborted only by sending the power supply a Device Clear command.
ESB MAV QUES ERR
MAV = Message available
QUES = Questionable status summary
ERR = Error queue not empty
1 − 0
−
−
80 Series N8700 User’s Guide
System Commands
LOCal
The instrument is set to front panel control (front panel keys are active).
REMote
The instrument is set to remote interface control (front panel keys are active).
The front panel keys are disabled (the instrument can only be controlled via the
remote interface).
SYSTem:COMMunicate:RLSTate LOCal|REMote|RWLock
SYSTem:COMMunicate:RLSTate?
Language Reference 5
System commands control system functions that are not directly
related to output control, measurement, or status functions. Common
commands are also used to control system functions.
This command configures the remote/local state of the instrument
according to the following settings.
RWLock
The remote/local state can also be set by interface commands over
the GPIB and some other I/O interfaces. When multiple remote
programming interfaces are active, the interface with the most
recently changed remote/local state determines the instrument’s
remote/local state.
The remote/local state is unaffected by *RST or any SCPI commands
other than SYSTem:COMMunicate:RLState. At power-on however, the
communications setting always returns to LOCal.
SYSTem:COMMunicate:TCPip:CONTrol?
This query returns the control connection port number. This is used
to open a control socket connection to the instrument. Refer to
chapter 4 under “Using Sockets” for more information.
SYSTem:ERRor?
This query returns the next error number and its corresponding
message string from the error queue. The queue is a FIFO (first-in,
first-out) buffer that stores errors as they occur. As it is read, each
error is removed from the queue. When all errors have been read, the
query returns 0, NO ERROR. If more errors are accumulated than the
queue can hold, the last error in the queue will be -350, TOO MANY
ERRORS (see Appendix C for error codes).
SYSTem:VERSion?
This query returns the SCPI version number to which the instrument
complies. The returned value is of the form YYYY.V, where YYYY
represents the year and V is the revision number for that year.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 81
5 Language Reference
*IDN?
*OPT?
*RCL <state>
This query requests the power supply to identify itself. It returns a
string of four fields separated by commas.
Agilent Technologies
xxxxxA
0
<A.xx.xx>,<A.xx.xx>
This query requests the unit to identify any installed options. A 0
indicates no options are installed.
This command restores the power supply to a state that was
previously stored in memory locations 0 through 15 with the *SAV
command. Note that you can only recall a state from a location that
contains a previously-stored state.
Manufacturer
Model number followed by a letter suffix
Zero or serial number if available
Firmware revision, power supply revision
NOTE
All saved instrument states are lost when the unit is turned off.
*RST
This command resets the power supply to a factory-defined state.
This state is defined as follows. Note that *RST also forces an ABORt
command. The *RST settings are as follows:
*SAV <state>
This command stores the present state of the power supply to
memory locations 0 through 15.
NOTE
All saved instrument states are lost when the unit is turned off.
CAL:STAT Off [SOUR:]CURR:PROT:STAT Off
INIT:CONT Off [SOUR:]VOLT 0
OUTP Off [SOUR:]VOLT:LIM 0
[SOUR:]CURR 0 [SOUR:]VOLT:TRIG 0
[SOUR:]CURR:TRIG 0 [SOUR:]VOLT:PROT MAXimum
*TST?
82 Series N8700 User’s Guide
This query always returns a zero.
Trigger Commands
ABORt
INITiate[:IMMediate][:TRANsient]
INITiate:CONTinuous[:TRANsient] ON|OFF
INITiate:CONTinuous[:TRANsient]?
Language Reference 5
Trigger commands consist of the Abort, Trigger, and Initiate
commands.
commands
This command cancels any trigger actions in progress and returns
the trigger system to the IDLE state, unless INIT:CONT is enabled. It
also resets the WTG bit in the Status Operation Condition register.
ABORt is executed at power-on and upon execution of *RST.
This command controls the enabling of output triggers. When a
trigger is enabled, a trigger causes the specified triggering action to
occur. If the trigger system is not enabled, all triggers are ignored.
Initiate commands initialize the trigger system. Trigger
control the triggering of the power supply.
This command continuously initiates output triggers. The enabled
state is On (1); the disabled state is Off (0). When disabled, the trigger
system must be initiated for each trigger with the INITiate command.
TRIGger[:TRANsient][:IMMediate]
If the trigger system has been initiated, this command generates an
immediate output trigger. When sent, the output trigger will:
Initiate an output change as specified by the CURR:TRIG or
VOLT:TRIG settings.
Clear the WTG bits in the Status Operation Condition register
after the trigger action has completed.
TRIGger:SOURce BUS
TRIGger:SOURce?
This command selects the trigger source for the output trigger
system. Only BUS can be selected as the trigger source.
*TRG
This command generates a trigger when the trigger source is set to
BUS. The command has the same affect as the Group Execute Trigger
(<GET>) command.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 83
6
Programming Examples
Output Programming Example ........................................................................ 86
Trigger Programming Example ........................................................................ 88
This chapter contains several example programs to help you develop
programs for your own application. The example programs are for
illustration only, and are provided with the assumption that you are
familiar with the programming language being demonstrated and the
tools used to create and debug procedures. See Chapter 5, “Language
Dictionary” for the SCPI command syntax.
NOTE
You have a royalty-free right to use, modify, reproduce and distribute
the example programs (and/or any modified version) in any way you
find useful, provided you agree that Agilent Technologies has no
warranty, obligations, or liability for any example programs.
The example programs are written in Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 using
the VISA COM IO library. The VISA COM library must be downloaded
from the Automation-Ready CD-ROM to use these programs. For
information about using VISA COM in another Visual Basic project,
refer to “Programming Your Instruments” in the USB/LAN/GPIB
Interfaces Connectivity Guide, also included on the AutomationReady CD-ROM.
Example programs for the following programming environments are also
included on the Product-Reference CD-ROM located at the back of this guide:
Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0
Microsoft Visual C++ 6.0
Microsoft Excel
The CD also contains IVI-COM and LabVIEW drivers for your power supply.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 85
6 Programming Examples
Output Programming Example
This program sets the voltage, current, over-voltage, and the overcurrent protection. It turns the output on and takes a voltage
measurement. When done, the program checks for instrument errors
Sub main_EZ()
Dim IDN As String
Dim IOaddress As String
Dim ErrString As String
' This variable controls the voltage
Dim VoltSetting As Double
' This variable measures the voltage
Dim measVolt As Double
' This variable controls the current
Dim CurrSetting As Double
' These variables control the over voltage protection settings
Dim overVoltSetting As Double
' These variables control the over current protection
Dim overCurrOn As Long
'These variable are neccessary to initialize the VISA COM.
Dim ioMgr As AgilentRMLib.SRMCls
Dim Instrument As VisaComLib.FormattedIO488
' The following command line provides the program with the VISA name of the
' interface that it will communicate with. It is currently set to use GPIB.
IOaddress = "GPIB0::5::INSTR"
' Use the following line for LAN communication
' IOaddress="TCPIP0::141.25.36.214"
' Use the following line instead for USB communication
' IOaddress = "USB0::2391::1799::N8741A-US00000002"
' Initialize the VISA COM communication
Set ioMgr = New AgilentRMLib.SRMCls
Set Instrument = New VisaComLib.FormattedIO488
Set Instrument.IO = ioMgr.Open(IOaddress)
VoltSetting = 3
CurrSetting = 1.5 ' amps
overVoltSetting = 10
overCurrOn = 1 '1 for on, 0 for off
With Instrument
' Send a power reset to the instrument
.WriteString "*RST"
' Query the instrument for the IDN string
.WriteString "*IDN?"
IDN = .ReadString
' Set the voltage
.WriteString "VOLT" & Str$(VoltSetting)
and gives a message if there is an error.
86 Series N8700 User’s Guide
' Set the over voltage level
.WriteString "VOLT:PROT:LEV " & Str$(overVoltSetting)
' Turn on over current protection
.WriteString "CURR:PROT:STAT " & Str$(overCurrOn)
' Set the current level
.WriteString "CURR " & Str$(CurrSetting)
' Turn the output on
.WriteString "OUTP ON"
' Make sure that the output is on before continuing
.WriteString "*OPC?"
.ReadString
' Measure the voltage
.WriteString "Meas:Volt?"
measVolt = .ReadNumber
MsgBox "Measured Voltage is " & Str$(measVolt)
' Check instrument for any errors
.WriteString "Syst:err?"
ErrString = .ReadString
' give message if there is an error
If Val(ErrString) Then
MsgBox "Error in instrument!" & vbCrLf & ErrString
End If
End With
End Sub
Programming Examples 6
Series N8700 User’s Guide 87
6 Programming Examples
Trigger Programming Example
This example illustrates how to set up and trigger a voltage and
Sub main_Trig()
Dim IDN As String
Dim IOaddress As String
Dim ErrString As String
Dim msg1 As String
' This variable is used to monitor the status
Dim stat As Long
' This variable controls the voltage
Dim VoltSetting As Double
' This variable measures the voltage
Dim MeasureVolt As Double
' This variable controls the current
Dim CurrSetting As Double
' This variable represents the trigger current setting
Dim trigCurrSetting As Double
' This variable controls the triggered voltage setting
Dim trigVoltSetting As Double
' This constant represents the register value for Waiting for Trigger
Const WTG = 32
' These variables are necessary to initialize the VISA COM
Dim ioMgr As AgilentRMLib.SRMCls
Dim Instrument As VisaComLib.FormattedIO488
' The following line provides the VISA name of the GPIB interface
IOaddress = "GPIB0::5::INSTR"
' Use the following line instead for LAN communication
' IOaddress="TCPIP0::141.25.36.214"
' Use the following line instead for USB communication
' IOaddress = "USB0::2391::1799::N8741A-US00000002"
' Initialize the VISA COM communication
Set ioMgr = New AgilentRMLib.SRMCls
Set Instrument = New VisaComLib.FormattedIO488
Set Instrument.IO = ioMgr.Open(IOaddress)
VoltSetting = 3 ' volts
CurrSetting = 2 ' amps
trigVoltSetting = 5 ' volts
trigCurrSetting = 3 ' amps
With Instrument
' Send a power reset to the instrument
.WriteString "*RST"
' Query the instrument for the IDN string
.WriteString "*IDN?"
IDN = .ReadString
current change. The voltage is measured before and after the trigger.
88 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Programming Examples 6
' Set the voltage
.WriteString "VOLT" & Str$(VoltSetting)
' Set the current level
.WriteString "CURR " & Str$(CurrSetting)
' Set the triggered voltage and current levels
.WriteString "VOLT:TRIG " & Str$(trigVoltSetting)
.WriteString "CURR:TRIG " & Str$(trigCurrSetting)
' Turn the output on
.WriteString "OUTP ON"
' Make sure that the output is on
.WriteString "*OPC?"
.ReadString
' Measure the voltage before triggering the change
.WriteString "MEAS:VOLT?"
MeasureVolt = .ReadNumber
' Save the value for later display
msg1$ = "Voltage before trigger = " & Str$(MeasureVolt)
' Initiate the trigger system
.WriteString "INIT"
' Make sure that the trigger system is initiated
Do
.WriteString "STAT:OPER:COND?"
stat = .ReadNumber
Loop Until ((stat And WTG) = WTG)
' Trigger the unit
.WriteString "*TRG"
'Make sure that the trigger is done
.WriteString "*OPC?"
.ReadString
' Measure the voltage after triggering the change
.WriteString "MEAS:VOLT?"
MeasureVolt = .ReadNumber
' Display the measured values
MsgBox msg1$ + Chr$(13) + "Voltage after trigger = " & Str$(MeasureVolt)
' Check instrument for any errors
.WriteString "Syst:err?"
ErrString = .ReadString
' Give message if there is an error
If Val(ErrString) Then
MsgBox "Error in instrument!" & vbCrLf & ErrString
End If
End With
End Sub
Series N8700 User’s Guide 89
Appendix A
Specifications
Performance Specifications ............................................................................ 92
Supplemental Characteristics ......................................................................... 93
Outline Diagram ................................................................................................. 96
This chapter lists the specifications and supplemental characteristics
of the Agilent N8700 power supplies. A dimensional line drawing of
the unit is included at the end of the chapter.
Unless otherwise noted, specifications are warranted over the
ambient temperature range of 0°to 40°C. Sensing is at the rear
terminals of the power supply after a 30-minute warm-up period.
Sense terminals are externally jumpered to their respective output
terminals.
Supplemental characteristics are not warranted but are descriptions
of typical performance determined either by design or type testing.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 91
Appendix A Specifications
5kW
DC Output Ratings:
Voltage 3.3kW
8V
10V
15V
20V
30V
40V
60V
80V
100V
150V
300V
600V
Voltage 5kW
20V
30V
40V
60V
80V
100V
150V
300V
600V
Current 3.3kW
400A
330A
220A
165A
110A
85A
55A
42A
33A
22A
11A
5.5A
Current 5kW
250A
170A
125A
85A
65A
50A
34A
17A
8.5A
Power 3.3kW
3.2kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.4kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
3.3kW
Power 5kW
5kW
5.1kW
5kW
5.1kW
5.2kW
5kW
5.1kW
5.1kW
5.1kW
Output Ripple and Noise:
CV p-p
3.3kW
60mV
60mV
60mV
60mV
60mV
60mV
60mV
80mV
100mV
100mV
300mV
500mV
CV p-p
5kW
75mV
75mV
75mV
75mV
100mV
100mV
120mV
300mV
500mV
CV rms
8mV
8mV
8mV
8mV
8mV
8mV
8mV
25mV
25mV
25mV
100mV
120mV
CV rms
5kW
10mV
10mV
10mV
10mV
15mV
15mV
25mV
60mV
120mV
Load Effect: (change from 10% to 90% of full load)
Voltage 3.3kW
6.2mV
6.5mV
7.3mV
8mV
9.5mV
11mV
14mV
17mV
20mV
50mV
95mV
Voltage 5kW
8mV
9.5mV
11mV
14mV
17mV
20mV
50mV
95mV
Current 3.3kW
85mA
71mA
49mA
38mA
27mA
22mA
16mA
9.4mA
7.2mA
6.1mA
Current 5kW
250mA
170mA
125mA
85mA
65mA
50mA
34mA
17mA
8.5mA
Source Effect: (change from 170-265 Vac for 200 Vac models, or 342-460 Vac for 400 Vac models; with constant load)
Voltage 3.3kW
2.8mV
3mV
3.5mV
4mV
5mV
6mV
8mV
10mV
12mV
17mV
32mV
62mV
Voltage 5kW
2mV
3mV
4mV
6mV
8mV
10mV
15mV
30mV
60mV
Current 3.3kW
42mA
35mA
24mA
13mA
7.5mA
6.2mA
5.3mA
4.2mA
3.1mA
2.6mA
Current 5kW
85mA
17mA
8.5mA
4.3mA
Programming Accuracy:
Voltage 3.3kW 0.05%+
4mV
5mV
7.5mV
10mV
15mV
20mV
30mV
40mV
50mV
75mV
150mV
300mV
Voltage 5kW 0.025%+
15mV
30mV
45mV
60mV
75mV
225mV
450mV
Current 3.3kW 0.1%+
800mA
110mA
84mA
66mA
44mA
22mA
11mA
Current 5kW 0.1%+
51mA
Measurement Accuracy:
Voltage 3.3kW 0.1%+
8mV
10mV
15mV
20mV
30mV
40mV
60mV
80mV
100mV
150mV
300mV
600mV
Voltage 5kW 0.025%+
25mV
50mV
75mV
100mV
125mV
375mV
750mV
Current 3.3kW 0.1%+
1.2A
990mA
660mA
165mA
126mA
99mA
66mA
33mA
Current 5kW 0.1%+
750mA
510mA
375mA
255mA
195mA
150mA
102mA
51mA
(time for output voltage to recover within 0.5% of its rated output for a load change from 10% to 90% of its rated output current)
Time 3.3kW
≤ 1 ms
≤ 1 ms
≤ 1 ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 2ms
≤ 2ms
≤ 2ms
Time 5kW
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 1ms
≤ 2ms
≤ 2ms
≤ 2ms
Output set point
From 10% to 100% of rated output
Performance Specifications
Agilent Models N8731A – N8742A and Models N8754A – N8762A
Model 3.3kW
NOTE 2
NOTE 2
NOTE 3
3.3kW
NOTE 3
N8731A N8732A N8733A N8734A
NOTE 1
N8754A
N8735A
N8755A
N8736A
N8756A
N8737A
N8757A
N8738A
N8758A
3.36kW
13.4mA 11.6mA
N8739A
N8759A
N8740A
N8760A
27.5mV
27.5mV
N8741A
N8761A
N8742A
N8762A
18.5mA
NOTE 1
660mA 440mA 330mA 220mA 170mA
125mA
22.5mV
750mA 510mA 375mA 255mA 195mA 150mA 102mA
37.5mV
495mA 330mA 255mA
10.5mA
62.5mA 42.5mA 32.5mA
Load Transient Recovery Time:
NOTE 1
Minimum voltage is guaranteed to a maximum of 0.2% of the rated output voltage.
Minimum current is guaranteed to a maximum of 0.4% of the rated output current.
NOTE 2
20MHz
NOTE 3
From 5Hz - 1MHz
25mA
112.5mV
25.5mA
187.5mV
16.5mA
25.5mA
92 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Supplemental Characteristics
Up, full load 3.3kW
0.08s
0.08s
0.08s
0.08s
0.08s
0.08s
0.15s
0.15s
0.15s
0.15s
0.15s
0.25s
Up, full load 5kW
0.03s
0.03s
0.03s
0.05s
0.05s
0.05s
0.05s
0.05s
0.1s
Down, full load
0.02s
0.1s
0.1s
0.1s
0.16s
0.16s
0.16s
0.3s
0.3s
0.3s
0.3s
0.5s
Down, full load 5kW
0.05s
0.08s
0.08s
0.08s
0.1s
0.1s
0.1s
0.1s
0.2s
Down, no load 3.3kW
0.5s
0.6s
0.7s
0.8s
0.9s
1.0s
1.1s
1.2s
1.5s
2.0s
3.5s
4.0s
Down, no load 5kW
0.7s
0.8s
0.9s
1.0s
1.2s
1.5s
2.0s
2.5s
3.0s
Command Response Time: (add this to the output response time to obtain the total programming time)
100 ms
Volts/load lead
2V
2V
2V
2V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
Volts/load lead 5kW
2V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
5V
Range 3.3kW
0.5-10
0.5-12
1-18
1-24V
2-36V
2-44V
5-66V
5-88V
5-110V
5-165V
5-330V
5-660V
Range 5kW
1-24V
2-36V
2-44V
5-66V
5-88V
5-110V
5-165V
5-330V
5-660V
CC rms 3.3kW
1.3A
1.2A
880mA
660mA
300mA
200mA
100mA
80mA
70mA
60mA
20mA
10mA
CC rms 5kW
1.0A
460mA
300mA
150mA
120mA
100mA
90mA
30mA
15mA
Measurement Resolution:
Voltage 3.3kW
0.96mV
1.2mV
1.8mV
2.4mV
3.6mV
4.8mV
7.2mV
9.6mV
12mV
18mV
36mV
72mV
Voltage 5kW
2.4mV
3.6mV
4.8mV
7.2mV
9.6mV
12mV
18mV
36mV
72mV
Current 3.3kW
48mA
39.6mA
26.4mA
19.8mA
13.2mA
10.2mA
6.6mA
5.0mA
4.0mA
2.6mA
1.3mA
0.66mA
Current 5kW
30mA
20.4mA
15mA
10.2mA
7.8mA
6.0mA
4.1mA
2.0mA
1.0mA
Voltage 3.3kW
40mV
50mV
75mV
100mV
150mV
200mV
300mV
400mV
500mV
750mV
1.5 V
3.0 V
Voltage 5kW
100mV
150mV
200mV
300mV
400mV
500mV
750mV
1.5 V
3.0 V
Current 3.3kW
2.0A
1.65A
1.10A
825mA
550mA
425mA
275mA
210mA
165mA
110mA
55mA
27.5mA
Current 5kW
1.25A
850mA
625mA
425mA
325mA
250mA
170mA
85mA
42.5mA
Voltage 3.3kW
4mV
5mV
7.5mV
10mV
15mV
20mV
30mV
40mV
50mV
75mV
150mV
300mV
Voltage 5kW
10mV
15mV
20mV
30mV
40mV
50mV
75mV
150mV
300mV
Current 3.3kW
200mA
165mA
110mA
82.5mA
55mA
42.5mA
27.5mA
21mA
16.5mA
11mA
5.5mA
2.8mA
Current 5kW
125mA
85mA
62.5mA
42.5mA
32.5mV
25mV
17mA
8.5mA
4.3mA
Voltage 3.3kW units
100 PPM/°C from rated output voltage
Voltage 5kW units
100 PPM/°C from rated output voltage
Current 3.3kW units
200 PPM/°C from rated output current
Current 5kW units
100 PPM/°C from rated output current
Agilent Models N8731A – N8742A and Models N8754A – N8762A
Specifications Appendix A
Model 3.3kW
5kW
N8731A N8732A N8733A N8734A
N8754A
N8735A
N8755A
N8736A
N8756A
N8737A
N8757A
N8738A
N8758A
N8739A
N8759A
N8740A
N8760A
N8741A
N8761A
N8742A
N8762A
Output Response Time: (to settle to within ±1.0% of the rated output, with a resistive load)
3.3kW
Remote Sense Compensation: (the load lead drop reduces the maximum available voltage at the load)
3.3kW
Over-voltage Protection:
Output Ripple and Noise: (for 8V-15V models, from 2V to 100% of rated output; for all other models, from 10% to 100% of rated output;)
Programming Resolution:
Front Panel Display Accuracy: (4 digits; +% of rated output voltage; \1 count)
Temperature Stability: (over 8 hours, after a 30 minute warm-up, with constant line, load, and temperature)
Temperature Coefficient: (after a 30 minute warm-up)
Series N8700 User’s Guide 93
Appendix A Specifications
Supplemental Characteristics (continued)
Vout voltage
0 - 100%, 0-5V or 0-10V, user selectable, Accuracy & linearity = ± 0.5% of rated Vout
Iout voltage
0 - 100%, 0-5V or 0-10V, user selectable, Accuracy & linearity = ± 1% of rated Iout
Vout resistance
0 - 100%, 0-5kW or 0-10kW, user selectable, Accuracy & linearity = ± 1% of rated Vout
Iout resistance
0 - 100%, 0-5kW or 0-10kW, user selectable, Accuracy & linearity = ± 1.5% of rated Iout
Iout monitor
0-5V or 0-10V, user selectable, Accuracy = ± 1%
Vout monitor
0-5V or 0-10V, user selectable, Accuracy = ± 1%
On/Off control
Electrical voltage; 0-0.6V or 2-15V or dry contact, user selectable logic
PS OK signal
TTL high (4-5V) = OK; 0V = FAIL; 500W series resistance
CV/CC signal 3.3kW
CV = TTL high (4-5V) source current 10 mA; CC = TTL low (0-0.6V) sink current 10 mA
CV/CC signal 5kW
Open collector; CV mode: OFF, CC mode: ON, Maximum voltage = 30V; Maximum sink current = 10 mA
Enable/Disable
Dry contact. Open=Off, Short=On. Maximum voltage at terminal = 6V.
80V to 600V units
No Positive output terminal may be more than ± 600 VDC from any other terminal or chassis ground.
Statements provided to comply with requirements of the German Sound Emission Directive, from 18 January 1991:
Model 3.3kW
5kW
N8731A N8732A N8733A N8734A
N8754A
N8735A
N8755A
N8736A
N8756A
N8737A
N8757A
N8738A
N8758A
N8739A
N8759A
N8740A
N8760A
N8741A
N8761A
Analog Programming and Monitoring:
Series and Parallel Capability:
Parallel operation Up to 4 identical units can be connected in master/slave mode with single–wire current balancing
Series operation Up to 2 identical units can be connected using external protection diodes (see Output Terminal Isolation)
Savable states:
In volatile memory 16 (in memory locations 0-15)
Interface Capabilities:
GPIB
LXI Compliance
USB 2.0
10/100 LAN
SCPI - 1993, IEEE 488.2 compliant interface
Class C (only applies to units with the LXI label on the front panel)
Requires Agilent IO Library version M.01.01 and up, or 14.0 and up
Requires Agilent IO Library version L.01.01 and up, or 14.0 and up
Environmental Conditions:
Environment
Operating temp.
Storage temp.
Operating humidity
Storage humidity
Altitude
Built-in Web server
Indoor use, installation category II (AC input), pollution degree 2
0°C to 40°C @ 100% load
–20°C to 85°C
Up to 90% relative humidity (no condensation)
10% to 95% relative humidity (no condensation)
Up to 3000 meters.
Above 2000m, derate the output current by 2%/100m and derate the maximum ambient temperature by 1°C/100m.
Requires Internet Explorer 5+ or Netscape 6.2+
Output Terminal Isolation:
8V to 60V units No output terminal may be more than ± 60 VDC from any other terminal or chassis ground.
N8742A
N8762A
No Negative output terminal may be more than ± 400 VDC from any other terminal or chassis ground.
Acoustic Noise Declaration:
Sound Pressure Lp <70 dB(A), * At Operator Position, * Normal Operation, * According to EN 27779 (Type Test).
Schalldruckpegel Lp <70 dB(A) * Am Arbeitsplatz, * Normaler Betrieb, * Nach EN 27779 (Typprüfung).
94 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Supplemental Characteristics (continued)
Regulatory Compliance:
Model 3.3kW
5kW
N8731A N8732A N8733A N8734A
N8754A
N8735A
N8755A
N8736A
N8756A
N8737A
N8757A
Specifications Appendix A
N8738A
N8758A
N8739A
N8759A
N8740A
N8760A
N8741A
N8761A
N8742A
N8762A
EMC
Safety
AC Input:
Nominal Input
3.3kW single-phase
3.3kW & 5kW 3-phase
3.3kW & 5kW 3-phase
Input Current
3.3kW single-phase
3.3kW 3-phase
3.3kW 3-phase
5kW 3-phase
5kW 3-phase
Input Range
Single-phase models
200V models
3-phase,
3-phase, 400V models
Input VA
3.3kW units
5kW units
Power Factor
3.3kW units
3.3kW units
5kW units
Efficiency
3.3kW units
5kW units
Inrush Current
Single-phase models
200V models
3-phase,
3-phase, 400V models
Complies with European EMC Directive for test and measurement products.
● IEC/EN 61326-1
● CISPR 11, Group 1, class A
● AS/NZS CISPR 11
● ICES/NMB-001
Complies with the Australian standard and carries the C-Tick mark.
This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES-001. Cet appareil ISM est conforme à la norme NMB-001 du Canada.
Complies with the European Low Voltage Directive and carries the CE-marking.
Conforms to UL 61010-1 and CSA C22.2 61010-1.
ALL Models: 190 – 240 Vac; 50/60Hz
200 Vac Models: 190 – 240 Vac; 50/60Hz
400 Vac Models: 380 – 415 Vac; 50/60Hz
ALL Models: 23 – 24A Max @ 100% load
200 Vac Models: 13.6 – 14.5A Max @ 100% load
400 Vac Models: 6.8 – 7.2A Max @ 100% load
200 Vac Models: 21 – 22A Max @ 100% load
400 Vac Models: 10.5 – 12A Max @ 100% load
170 – 265 Vac; 47 – 63 Hz
170 – 265 Vac; 47 – 63 Hz
342 – 460 Vac; 47 – 63 Hz
4000 VA
5800 VA
Single-phase models: 0.99 at nominal input and rated output power
3-phase models: 0.95 at nominal input and rated output power
3-phase models: 0.94 at nominal input and rated output power
82% – 88%
83% – 88%
< 50A
< 50A
< 20A
Series N8700 User’s Guide 95
Appendix A Specifications
482.0+/-1.0mm
88.0mm+/-0.3mm
A
60.5mm 92.0mm
92.0mm
42.0mm
442.5+/-1.0mm
497.5mm (150V to 600V models)
Bus-Bar Detail
8V to 100V Models
N8749A
System DC Power Supply
PROT FINE LIMIT UVL OCP/488 LAN OUT ON
VOLTAGE DC VOLTS DC AMPS CURRENT
OVP
AA
423.0+/-1.0mm
5.0mm
30.0mm
50.0mm
10.5mm
40
.
0
m
m
86.0mm+/-0.3mm
Output Cover Detail
8V to 100V Models
80.0
mm
108.0mm
39.0mm+/-0.3mm
Outline Diagram
96 Series N8700 User’s Guide
NOTES:
Holes marked “A” are for chassis slide mounting.
Use only screws designated #10-32x0.38” maximum.
also verify the power supply is properly calibrated.
published specifications. Calibration is recommended annually.
Appendix B
Verification and Calibration
Verification ......................................................................................................... 97
Calibration ........................................................................................................ 126
The verification procedures described in this appendix verify that the
power supply is operating normally and is within published
specifications.
This appendix also includes calibration procedures for the Agilent
N8700 power supplies. Instructions are given for performing the
procedures from a controller over the GPIB.
Verification
NOTE
Performance
Calibration These procedures calibrate the power supply and set operation within the
Perform the verification tests before calibrating your power supply. If the power
supply passes the verification tests, the unit is operating within its calibration
limits and does not need to be re-calibrated.
The recommended calibration interval for Agilent N8700 power
supplies is one year.
Verification procedures are of two types:
These procedures verify that the power supply is operating normaly and
meets all of the published specifications listed in Appendix A. These tests
If the power supply fails any of the verification tests, perform the
calibration procedures. If calibration is unsuccessful, return the unit
to an Agilent Technologies repair facility (see Appendix D).
Series N8700 User’s Guide 97
Appendix B Verification and Calibration
Digital Voltmeter
Resolution: 10 nV @ 1V; Readout: 8 1/2 digits;
Agilent 3458A or equivalent
Load Resistor
For 3.3 kW models:
Electronic Load
150V, 400A, 3.3kW minimum for Models N8731- N8740A
Agilent N3300A mainframes (up to 4);
GPIB Controller
Full GPIB capabilities - for calibrating over the GPIB
Agilent 82350B or
Equipment Required
The equipment listed in the following table, or the equivalent to this
equipment, is required for the calibration and performance tests.
Test records for all models are at the end of this verification section.
Type Specifications Recommended Model
Accuracy: 20 ppm
Current Monitor
15A (0.1Ω) 0.04%, TC=4ppm/°C
100A (0.01Ω) 0.04%, TC=4ppm/°C
300A (0.001Ω) 0.04%, TC=4ppm/°C
500A (0.0005Ω) 0.04%, TC=4ppm/°C
Guildline 9230/15
Guildline 9230/100
Guildline 9230/300
Guildline 9230/500
(nominal values)
Oscilloscope Sensitivity: 1 mV: Bandwidth Limit: 20 MHz
RMS Voltmeter True RMS; Bandwidth: 20 MHz; Sensitivity: 100V Rhode and Schwartz Model URE3 or
Differential
Amplifier
Terminations 1 – 50W BNC termination
Variable-voltage
xfmr or AC source
0.02Ω, 0.03Ω, 0.068Ω, 0.12Ω, 0.27Ω, 0.47Ω, 1.1Ω, 1.9Ω,
3.0Ω, 6.8Ω, 27.3Ω, 109Ω - all resistors 3.5 kW minimum.
For 5 kW models:
0.08Ω, 0.176Ω, 0.32Ω, 0.705Ω, 1.23Ω, 2.0Ω, 4.40Ω,
17.6Ω, 70.6Ω - all resistors 5.5 kW minimum.
150V, 250A, 5kW minimum for Models N8754- N8760A
600 V, 300 A, 5kW minimum - optional for models
N8741A, N8742A, N8761A, N8762A
Probe: 1:1 with RF tip
Bandwidth: 20 MHz LeCroy 1855A, DA1850A,
2 – 50W, 1/8W termination resistors
Power: 3 Phase 24KVA; Range: 180-235V 47 - 63Hz;
360- 440V 47 - 63Hz
Agilent N3305A modules (up to 11);
Agilent N3306A modules (up to 9)
Amrel Model PLA-5K-600-300
equivalent
Agilent Infiniium or equivalent
equivalent
or equivalent
Superior Powerstat
1156DT-3Y, 0-280V, 50A,
24.2 KVA or equivalent
Test Records
98 Series N8700 User’s Guide
Test records for each power supply model are provided after the test
procedure sections.
3.3 kW test records are provided followed by the 5 kW test records.
Measurement Techniques
A.
Electronic load
or resistor
DC voltmeter,
scope, or
rms voltmeter
Load
Resistor
+
+
+
B.
Differential
amplifier
C.
Scope or
rms voltmeter
Current
shunt
+
DC voltmeter,
scope, or
rms voltmeter
+
Electronic load
or resistor
50 50
output
50 ohm
termination
input
BNC
BNC
BNC
+V -V
Power Supply
+S +LS -LS -S
+V -V
Power Supply
+S +LS -LS -S
+V -V
Power Supply
+S +LS -LS -S
Electronic Load
Many of the test procedures require the use of a variable load capable
of dissipating the required power. If a variable resistor is used,
switches should be used to either; connect, disconnect, or short the
load resistor. For most tests, an electronic load can be used. The
electronic load is considerably easier to use than load resistors, but it
may not be fast enough to test transient recovery time and may be
too noisy for the noise (PARD) tests.
Fixed load resistors may be used in place of a variable load, with
minor changes to the test procedures. Also, if computer controlled
test setups are used, the relatively slow (compared to computers and
system voltmeters) settling times and slew rates of the power supply
may have to be taken into account. "Wait" statements can be used in
the test program if the test system is faster than the power supply.
Current-Monitoring Resistor
The 4-terminal current shunt is used to eliminate output current
measurement error caused by voltage drops in the load leads and
connections. It has special current-monitoring terminals inside the
load connection terminals. Connect the voltmeter directly to these
current-monitoring terminals.
Verification and Calibration Appendix B
Test Set-up
The following figure illustrates the test set-up used for the
verification procedures.
Series N8700 User’s Guide 99
Appendix B Verification and Calibration
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD Before starting the verification procedures, check to make
sure that the startup mode is set to Safe-Start (see page 44).
Constant Voltage Tests
Refer to the appropriate test record in the following section for the
instrument settings for each of the following tests.
Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy
Test category = performance, calibration
This test verifies that the voltage programming and measurement
functions are within specifications.
1 Turn off the power supply and connect a DVM directly across the
+S and -S terminals as shown in figure A. Do not connect a load.
2 Turn on the power supply and program the output voltage to zero
and the output current to its maximum programmable value
(Imax) with the load off. The CV annunciator should be on and
the output current reading should be approximately zero.
3 Record the output voltage readings on the digital voltmeter
(DVM) as well as the measurement readback. The readings
should be within the limits specified in the test record for the
model being tested under Voltage Programming and Readback,
Minimum Voltage Vout.
4 Program the output voltage to its full-scale rating.
5 Record the output voltage readings on the DVM as well as the
measurement readback. The readings should be within the limits
specified in the test record for the appropriate model under
Voltage Programming and Readback, High Voltage Vout.
CV Load Effect
Test category = performance
This test measures the change in output voltage resulting from a
change in output current from full load to no load.
1 Turn off the power supply and connect a DVM and an electronic
load as shown in figure A.
2 Turn on the power supply and program the output current to its
maximum programmable value (Imax) and the output voltage to
its full-scale value.
3 Set the electronic load for the output’s full-scale current. The CV
annunciator on the front panel must be on. If it is not, adjust the
load so that the output current drops slightly.
4 Record the output voltage reading from the DVM.
5 Open the load and record the voltage reading from the DVM
again. The difference between the DVM readings in steps 4 and 5
is the load effect, which should not exceed the value listed in the
test record for the appropriate model under CV Load Effect.
100 Series N8700 User’s Guide
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