Agilent Technologies N8734A, N8735A, N8736A, N8737A, N8738A User Manual

Agilent Technologies
System DC Power Supply

Series N8

User’s Guide

700



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© 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
identified by a new printing date.

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and click on “Declarations of Conformity.”
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Directive 2002/96/EC

This product complies with the WEEE
Directive 2002/96/EC) marketing
requirement. The affixed product label
(see below) indicates that you must not
discard this electrical/electronic product
in domestic household waste.

Product Category: With reference to the
equipment types in the WEEE directive
Annex 1, this product is classified as
“Monitoring and Control instrumentation”
product.

Do not dispose in domestic household
waste.

To return unwanted products, contact our
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for more information.

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Agilent Technologies certifies that this
product met its published specifications
at time of shipment from the factory.
Agilent Technologies further certifies that
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the extent allowed by the Institute's
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This product comes with the standard
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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: [phone]
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