AMETEK BPS User Manual
BPS / Mx / RS Series
SCPI Programming Manual
(Including MX Series I / Series II)
7003-961 Rev AA www.programmablepower.com
AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
SCPI Programming Reference Manual
• BPS Series AC Power Systems MX Series AC/DC Power Systems
• Mx Series AC/DC Power Systems
• RS Series AC/DC Power Systems
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BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
About AMETEK
AMETEK Programmable Power, Inc., a Division of AMETEK, Inc., is a global leader in the design
and manufacture of precision, programmable power supplies for R&D, test and measurement,
process control, power bus simulation and power conditioning applications across diverse industrial
segments. From bench top supplies to rack-mounted industrial power subsystems, AMETEK
Programmable Power is the proud manufacturer of Elgar, Sorensen, California Instruments and
Power Ten brand power supplies.
AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electromechanical
devices with annualized sales of $3.3 billion. The Company has over 11,000 colleagues working at
more than 80 manufacturing facilities and more than 80 sales and service centers in the United
States and around the world.
Trademarks
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Notice of Copyright
BPS / MX / RS Series Programming Manual
rights reserved.
© 2003-2013 AMETEK Programmable Power, Inc. All
Exclusion for Documentation
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Date and Revision
June 2013 - Revision AA
Part Number
7003-961
Contact Information
Telephone: 800 733 5427 (toll free in North America)
858 450 0085 (direct)
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service@programmablepower.com
Web: www.programmablepower.com
Manual P/N 7003-961 Rev. AA 3
AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
Important Safety Instructions
Before applying power to the system, verify that your product is configured properly for your
particular application.
WARNING
WARNING
Only qualified personnel who deal with attendant hazards in power supplies, are allowed to perform
installation and servicing.
Ensure that the AC power line ground is connected properly to the Power Rack input connector or
chassis. Similarly, other power ground lines including those to application and maintenance equipment
must be grounded properly for both personnel and equipment safety.
Always ensure that facility AC input power is de-energized prior to connecting or disconnecting any
cable.
In normal operation, the operator does not have access to hazardous voltages within the chassis.
However, depending on the user’s application configuration, HIGH VOLTAGES HAZARDOUS TO
HUMAN SAFETY may be normally generated on the output terminals. The customer/user must
ensure that the output power lines are labeled properly as to the safety hazards and that any
inadvertent contact with hazardous voltages is eliminated.
Guard against risks of electrical shock during open cover checks by not touching any portion of the
electrical circuits. Even when power is off, capacitors may retain an electrical charge. Use safety
glasses during open cover checks to avoid personal injury by any sudden component failure.
Neither AMETEK Programmable Power Inc., San Diego, California, USA, nor any of the subsidiary
sales organizations can accept any responsibility for personnel, material or inconsequential injury, loss
or damage that results from improper use of the equipment and accessories.
Hazardous voltages may be present when covers are removed. Qualified
personnel must use extreme caution when servicing this equipment.
Circuit boards, test points, and output voltages also may be floating above
(below) chassis ground.
The equipment used contains ESD sensitive parts. When installing
equipment, follow ESD Safety Procedures. Electrostatic discharges might
cause damage to the equipment.
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BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Manual P/N 7003-961 Rev. AA 5
AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
Product Family: BPS / MX / RS Series AC Power Source
Warranty Period: 1 Year
WARRANTY TERMS
AMETEK Programmable Power, Inc. (“AMETEK”), provides this written warranty covering the
Product stated above, and if the Buyer discovers and notifies AMETEK in writing of any defect in
material or workmanship within the applicable warranty period stated above, then AMETEK may, at
its option: repair or replace the Product; or issue a credit note for the defective Product; or provide
the Buyer with replacement parts for the Product.
The Buyer will, at its expense, return the defective Product or parts thereof to AMETEK in
accordance with the return procedure specified below. AMETEK will, at its expense, deliver the
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• is damaged by misuse, accident, negligence or failure to maintain the same as
specified or required by AMETEK;
• is damaged by modifications, alterations or attachments thereto which are not
authorized by AMETEK;
• is installed or operated contrary to the instructions of AMETEK;
• is opened, modified or disassembled in any way without AMETEK’s consent; or
• is used in combination with items, articles or materials not authorized by AMETEK.
The Buyer may not assert any claim that the Products are not in conformity with any warranty until
the Buyer has made all payments to AMETEK provided for in the Purchase Order Agreement.
PRODUCT RETURN PROCEDURE
Request a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number from the repair facility (must be done in
the country in which it was purchased):
• In the USA, contact the AMETEK Repair Department prior to the return of the
product to AMETEK for repair:
Telephone: 800-733-5427, ext. 2295 or ext. 2463 (toll free North America)
858-450-0085, ext. 2295 or ext. 2463 (direct)
• Outside the United States, contact the nearest Authorized Service Center (ASC). A
full listing can be found either through your local distributor or our website,
www.programmablepower.com, by clicking Support and going to the Service Centers
tab.
When requesting an RMA, have the following information ready:
• Model number
• Serial number
• Description of the problem
NOTE: Unauthorized returns will not be accepted and will be returned at the shipper’s expense.
NOTE: A returned product found upon inspection by AMETEK, to be in specification is subject to an
evaluation fee and applicable freight charges.
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BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 10
1.1 Documentation Summary .................................................................................................. 10
1.2 Model Series I and Series II .............................................................................................. 10
1.3 External References .......................................................................................................... 11
1.4 Introduction to Programming ............................................................................................. 12
2. Introduction to SCPI ...................................................................................................................... 14
2.1 Conventions Used in This Manual .................................................................................... 14
2.2 The SCPI Commands and Messages ............................................................................... 14
2.3 Using Queries ................................................................................................................... 17
2.4 Structure of a SCPI Message ........................................................................................... 17
2.5 SCPI Data Formats ........................................................................................................... 21
3. System Considerations and Interface Setup ................................................................................ 22
3.1 Assigning the IEEE-488 Address ...................................................................................... 22
3.2 GPIB Controllers ............................................................................................................... 22
3.3 RS232C Interface .............................................................................................................. 24
3.4 USB Interface .................................................................................................................... 26
3.5 LAN Interface Option ......................................................................................................... 35
4. SCPI Command Reference .......................................................................................................... 38
4.1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 38
4.2 Calibration Subsystem ...................................................................................................... 39
4.3 Display Subsystem ............................................................................................................ 51
4.4 Instrument Subsystem ...................................................................................................... 53
4.5 Array Measurement Subsystem [3Pi Controller Only] ...................................................... 55
4.6 Current Measurement Subsystem .................................................................................... 62
4.7 Frequency Measurement Subsystem ............................................................................... 66
4.8 Phase Measurement Subsystem ...................................................................................... 67
4.9 Power Measurement Subsystem ...................................................................................... 68
4.10 Voltage Measurement Subsystem .................................................................................... 70
4.11 Output Subsystem ............................................................................................................. 73
4.12 Source Subsystem - Current ............................................................................................. 79
4.13 Source Subsystem - Frequency ........................................................................................ 81
4.14 Source Subsystem - Function [3Pi Controller Only] ......................................................... 84
4.15 Source Subsystem - Limit ................................................................................................. 86
4.16 Sense Subsystem - Sweep [3Pi controller only] ............................................................... 88
4.17 Source Subsystem - List ................................................................................................... 90
4.18 Source Subsystem - Mode ................................................................................................ 98
4.19 Source Subsystem - Phase .............................................................................................. 99
4.20 Source Subsystem - PONSetup ..................................................................................... 100
4.21 Source Subsystem - Pulse .............................................................................................. 104
4.22 Source Subsystem - Voltage .......................................................................................... 107
4.23 Status Subsystem Commands ........................................................................................ 113
4.24 System Commands ......................................................................................................... 117
4.25 Trace Subsystem Commands [Pi Controller Only] ......................................................... 124
4.26 Trigger Subsystem .......................................................................................................... 126
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AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
5. Common Commands .................................................................................................................. 131
5.1 *CLS ................................................................................................................................ 132
5.2 *ESE ................................................................................................................................ 133
5.3 *ESR? ............................................................................................................................. 133
5.4 *IDN? ............................................................................................................................... 134
5.5 *OPC ............................................................................................................................... 134
5.6 *OPT? ............................................................................................................................. 135
5.7 *PSC ............................................................................................................................... 136
5.8 *RCL ................................................................................................................................ 136
5.9 *RST ................................................................................................................................ 137
5.10 *SAV ................................................................................................................................ 138
5.11 *SRE .......................................................................................................................... ..... 138
5.12 *STB? .............................................................................................................................. 139
5.13 *TRG .......................................................................................................................... ..... 140
5.14 *WAI .......................................................................................................................... ...... 140
6. Programming Examples ............................................................................................................. 141
6.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 141
6.2 Programming the Output ................................................................................................. 142
6.3 Coupled Commands ....................................................................................................... 147
6.4 Programming Output Transients ..................................................................................... 148
6.5 Triggering Output Changes ............................................................................................ 153
6.6 Acquiring Measurement Data ......................................................................................... 156
6.7 Controlling the Instantaneous Voltage and Current Data Buffers .................................. 162
6.8 Trigger System Summary ............................................................................................... 164
7. Status Registers ......................................................................................................................... 165
7.1 Power-On Conditions ...................................................................................................... 165
7.2 Operation Status Group .................................................................................................. 165
7.3 Questionable Status Group............................................................................................. 168
7.4 Standard Event Status Group ......................................................................................... 169
7.5 Status Byte Register ....................................................................................................... 169
7.6 Examples ........................................................................................................................ 170
7.7 SCPI Command Completion ........................................................................................... 171
8. Option Commands ...................................................................................................................... 172
8.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 172
8.2 IEC 1000-4-11 (-411) ...................................................................................................... 173
8.3 IEC 1000-4-13 (-413) ...................................................................................................... 177
8.4 RTCA/DO-160D (-160) ................................................................................................... 190
8.5 MIL-STD 704E (-704) ...................................................................................................... 197
8.6 Airbus ABD0100.1.8 Test Option (-ABD) ........................................................................ 199
8.7 Airbus A350 ABD0100.1.8.1 Test Option (-A350) .......................................................... 199
8.8 Airbus AMD24 Test Option (-AMD) ................................................................................ 199
8.9 Boeing B787-0147 Test Option (-B787) ......................................................................... 199
8.10 OMNI Reference Impedance .......................................................................................... 200
8.11 Watt Hour Meter (-WHM) ................................................................................................ 201
8.12 Current Sink Option (-SNK) ............................................................................................ 202
Appendix A: SCPI Command tree .................................................................................................... 206
Appendix B: SCPI Conformance Information ................................................................................... 212
Appendix C: Error Messages ............................................................................................................ 213
Index .................................................................................................................................................. 219
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BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
Table of Figures
Figure 2-1 : Partial Command Tree ..................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 2-2: Command Message Structure ........................................................................................................... 18
Figure 3-1: RS232C Interface cable wiring diagram ............................................................................................ 25
Figure 3-2: DB25 to DB9 Adaptor pinout ............................................................................................................. 25
Figure 3-3: Windows XP Device Manager - USB Port ......................................................................................... 29
Figure 3-4: Windows XP Device Manager – Virtual Com Port ............................................................................. 33
Figure 3-5: Gui Interface Settings for use of USB port. ....................................................................................... 34
Figure 3-6: Pinging AC Source LAN IP address. ................................................................................................. 37
Figure 6-1: Output transient system .................................................................................................................. 149
Figure 6-2: Transient Trigger System Model ..................................................................................................... 153
Figure 6-3: Measurement Acquisition Trigger Model ......................................................................................... 160
Figure 6-4: Pre-event and Post-event Triggering ............................................................................................... 163
Figure 6-5: Trigger system block diagram ......................................................................................................... 164
Figure 7-1: Status System Model ...................................................................................................................... 166
Table of Tables
Table 4-1 : PULSe:HOLD = WIDTh parameters ............................................................................................... 105
Table 4-2 : PULSe:HOLD = DCYCle parameters .............................................................................................. 105
Table 5-1 : *RST default parameter values ........................................................................................................ 137
Table 7-1: Operation Status Register ................................................................................................................ 165
Table 7-2: Configuration of Status Register ....................................................................................................... 167
Table 7-3: Questionable Status Register ........................................................................................................... 168
Table 8-4 : Error Messages ............................................................................................................................... 218
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AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
1. Introduction
This manual contains programming information for the BPS Series, MX Series I and MX
Series II and RS Series AC/DC Power Sources. This manual contains the following
chapters:
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 2 Introduction to SCPI
Chapter 3 System Considerations and Interface Setup
Chapter 4 SCPI Command Reference
Chapter 5 Common Commands
Chapter 6 Programming Examples
Chapter 7 Status Registers
Chapter 8 Option Commands
Appendix A SCPI command tree.
Appendix B SCPI conformance information.
Appendix C Error messages
1.1 Documentation Summary
This SCPI programming manual covers the California Instruments BPS Series, MX Series I
and MX Series II and RS Series AC/DC power sources. A separate User Manual is also
supplied with all models in this product series. For front panel operation and general service
and calibration information on these produces, please refer to the User Manual. The
programming manual covers issue related to operating the BPS Series, MX Series I or MX
Series II or RS Series remotely using an instrument controller.
The following documents are related to this Programming Manual and contain additional
helpful information for using these products in a remote control environment.
• User Manual . Includes specifications and supplemental characteristics, how to use the
front panel, how to connect to the instrument, and calibration procedures. Distributed on
the same CD as the programming manual.
1.2 Model Mx Series I and Series II, RS and BPS Series
There are two versions of the MX Series product, Series I and Series II. This user manual
covers both MX model series with top level assembly part numbers 7003-400 (Series I),
7003-422 or 7003-427 (Series II/BPS), or 5440001 (RS/BPS Series), and 7005-400 (MX15
Series). The difference between the Mx Series I and the Series II is the controller used. The
Series II uses a newer controller design but retains as much backward compatibility with the
Series I products as possible. The part number is shown on the model / serial number tag on
the back of the MX/RS/BPS series. All Mx Series II, RS and BPS Series will have a firmware
revision of 4.0 or higher. The firmware revision is displayed briefly at power up on the LCD
display and can also be queried over the bus by using the *IDN? command. The MX15
Series uses the Series II controller, but firmware revisions do not start at 4.0 but rather at
0.6.
Differences between the two model Mx Series I and Series II are:
• Reduced number of measurement calibration coefficients on Series II.
• Increased measurement sampling rate on Series II.
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BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
• Maximum DC offset range in AC+DC mode is 250Vdc on Series I, 220Vdc
on Series II
• Default mode for trigger out BNC is Function Strobe (FSTR). To switch to Trigger
Out mode, the OUTP:TTLT:MODE command must be used.
• MX Series II with P/N 7003-427 and RS Series P/N 5440001 offer standard USB
and optional Ethernet (-LAN option) interfaces.
Where relevant, differences are highlighted throughout the manual.
1.3 Model BPS Series
Not all SCPI Commands are supported for the BPS. The following are a list of commands and or
function that are not supported in the BPS models. An error will be generated if access to these
commands:
• DC or AC+DC programming.
• TRACE Subsystem. Only sine wave programming is supported.
• STEP and PULSE
• Mode selection between one phase and three phases.
• Advance measurements, Trace capture and Harmonics analysis.
• External sync.
1.4 External References
SCPI References
The following documents will assist you with programming in SCPI:
• Beginner's Guide to SCPI.
Highly recommended for anyone who has not had previous experience programming with
SCPI.
IEEE-488 References
The most important IEEE-488 documents are your controller programming manuals -IEEE488 Command Library for Windows
example: Local Device Clear and Group Execute Trigger bus commands.)
• IEEE-488 command library for Windows
• IEEE-488 controller programming
The following are two formal documents concerning the IEEE-488 interface:
• ANSI/IEEE Std. 488.1-1987 IEEE Standard Digital Interface for Programmable
Instrumentation. Defines the technical details of the IEEE-488 interface. While much of
the information is beyond the need of most programmers, it can serve to clarify terms
used in this guide and in related documents.
• ANSI/IEEE Std. 488.2-1987 IEEE Standard Codes, Formats, Protocols, and Common
Commands. Recommended as a reference only if you intend to do fairly sophisticated
programming. Helpful for finding precise definitions of certain types of SCPI message
formats, data types, or common commands.
®
, etc. Refer to these for all non-SCPI commands (for
®
.
The above two documents are available from the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers), 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA.
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AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
1.5 Introduction to Programming
This section provides some general information regarding programming instrumentation and
available interface types.
1.5.1
1.5.2
IEEE-488 Capabilities of the AC/DC Source
All AC/DC source functions are programmable over the IEEE-488 or RS232C interface bus.
Newer models also offer USB and Ethernet (LAN). The IEEE 488.2 capabilities of the
AC/DC source are listed in appendix A of the User's Guide.
IEEE-488 Address
The AC/DC source operates from a single IEEE-488 address that may be set from the front
panel or programmatically through the IEEE-488 bus. To set the IEEE-488 address from the
front panel, select the Utility entry from the menu screen. Care must be used when setting
the IEEE-488 address programmatically since the next statement sent to the source must
reflect the new address.
USB Capabilities of the AC source
All AC source functions are programmable over the USB interface. The USB capabilities of
the AC source are listed in Chapter 2 of the User's Manual. Some capabilities support on
the GPIB interface such as ATN, GET and SRQ interrupts do not apply to the USB interface.
The USB interface operates internally at a fixed baudrate of 460800 baud but USB 2.0 burst
transfer rates are supported.
To set up the USB interface on a Windows XP PC, refer to section 3.4, “USB Interface”.
The USB interface may be used to install updated firmware for the controller if needed.
Firmware updates and a Flash Loader utility program and instructions are available from the
AMETEK Programmable Power website for this purpose. (
www.programmablepower.com )
Multiple USB connections to same PC:
The Windows driver used to interface to the power source’s USB port emulates a serial com
port. This virtual com port driver is unable to reliable differentiate between multiple units
however so the use of more than one AC power source connected to the same PC via USB
is not recommended. Use of the GPIB interface is recommended for these situations.
1.5.3
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LAN Capabilities of the AC source
All AC source functions are programmable over the LAN (Ethernet) interface if the –LAN
option is installed. The LAN capabilities of the AC source are listed in Chapter 2 of the
User's Manual. Some capabilities support on the GPIB interface such as ATN, GET and
SRQ interrupts do not apply to the LAN interface. The LAN interface operates internally at a
fixed baudrate of 460800 baud but autodetection of 10Base-T, 100Base-T and 1000Base-T
is supported.
To set up the LAN interface on a Windows XP PC, refer to section 3.5, “LAN Interface
Option”.
BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual AMETEK Programmable Power
1.5.4 RS232C Capabilities of the AC source
All AC source functions are programmable over the RS232C interface. The RS232C
capabilities of the AC source are listed in Chapter 2 of the User's Manual. Some capabilities
support on the GPIB interface such as ATN, GET and SRQ interrupts do not apply to the
RS232C interface. Baudrates from 9600 to 115200 are supported on units that have both
USB and RS232. For units with only RS232, the maximum baudrate is 38400.
To set up the RS232C interface, refer to section 3.3, “RS232C Interface”.
The RS232C interface may be used to install updated firmware for the controller if needed.
Firmware updates and a Flash Loader utility program and instructions are available from the
AMETEK Programmable Power website for this purpose. (
www.programmablepower.com )
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AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
2. Introduction to SCPI
SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is a programming language for
controlling instrument functions over the IEEE-488. SCPI is layered on top of the hardwareportion of IEEE 488.1. The same SCPI commands and parameters control the same
functions in different classes of instruments. For example, you would use the same
MEAS:VOLT? command to measure the AC/DC source output voltage or the output voltage
measured using a SCPI-compatible multimeter.
2.1 Conventions Used in This Manual
Angle brackets<> Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations. For
example, <NR1> indicates a specific form of numerical data.
Vertical bar Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example, FIX |
STEP indicates that either "FIX" or "STEP" can be used as a
parameter.
Square Brackets [ ] Items within square brackets are optional. The representation
[SOURce:]LIST means that SOURce: may be omitted.
Braces Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more
times. It is used especially for showing arrays. The notation <A>
<,B> shows that parameter "A" must be entered, while parameter
"B" may be omitted or may be entered one or more times.
Boldface font Boldface font is used to emphasize syntax in command definitions.
TRIGger:SOURCe<NRf> shows a command definition.
Computer font Computer font is used to show program lines in text.
TRIGger:SOURCe INT
shows a program line.
2.2 The SCPI Commands and Messages
This paragraph explains the syntax difference between SCPI Commands and SCPI
messages.
2.2.1
Types of SCPI Commands
SCPI has two types of commands, common and subsystem.
• Common commands are generally not related to specific operations but to controlling
overall AC source functions such as reset, status and synchronization. All common
commands consist of a three-letter mnemonic preceded by an asterisk:
*RST
*IDN?
*SRE 256
• Subsystem commands perform specific AC/DC source functions. They are organized
into an inverted tree structure with the "root" at the top. Some are single commands
while others are grouped within specific subsystems.
Refer to appendix A for the AC source SCPI tree structure.
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2.2.2 Types of SCPI Messages
There are two types of SCPI messages, program and response.
• A program message consists of one or more properly formatted SCPI commands sent
from the controller to the AC/DC source. The message, which may be sent at any time,
requests the AC/DC source to perform some action.
• A response message consists of data in a specific SCPI format sent from the AC source
to the controller. The AC source sends the message only when commanded by a
program message called a "query."
2.2.3
The SCPI Command Tree
As previously explained, the basic SCPI communication method involves sending one or
more properly formatted commands from the SCPI command tree to the instrument as
program messages. The following figure shows a portion of a subsystem command tree,
from which you access the commands located along the various paths (you can see the
complete tree in appendix A).
Root
:OUTPut
:STATus
[:STATe]
:PON
:TTLTrg
[:STATe]
:SOURce
:IMPedance
:REAL
:REACtive
:OPERation
[:EVEN]?
:CONDition?
Figure 2-1 : Partial Command Tree
The Root Level
Note the location of the ROOT node at the top of the tree. Commands at the root level are
at the top level of the command tree. The SCPI interface is at this location when:
• The AC/DC source is powered on
• A device clear (DCL) is sent to the AC source
• The SCPI interface encounters a message terminator
• The SCPI interface encounters a root specifier
Active Header Path
In order to properly traverse the command tree, you must understand the concept of the
active header path. When the AC/DC source is turned on (or under any of the other
conditions listed above), the active path is at the root. That means the SCPI interface is
ready to accept any command at the root level, such as SOURCe or MEASurement
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If you enter SOURCe the active header path moves one colon to the right. The interface is
now ready to accept :VOLTage :FREQuency, or :CURRent as the next header. You must
include the colon, because it is required between headers.
If you now enter :VOLTage, the active path again moves one colon to the right. The interface
is now ready to accept either :RANGe or :LEVel as the next header.
If you now enter :RANGe you have reached the end of the command string. The active
header path remains at :RANGe If you wished, you could have entered :RANGe 135 ;LEVel
115 and it would be accepted as a compound message consisting of:
SOURce:VOLTage:RANGe 150.
SOURce:VOLTage:LEVel 115.
The entire message would be:
SOURce:VOLTage:RANGe 150;LEVel 115
The message terminator after LEVel 115 returns the path to the root.
The Effect of Optional Headers
If a command includes optional headers, the interface assumes they are there. For example,
if you enter [SOURCe]:VOLTage 115, the interface recognizes it as
[SOURce]:VOLTage:LEVel 115. This returns the active path to the root (:VOLTage). But if
you enter [SOURce]:VOLTage:LEVel 115 then the active path remains at :LEVel This allows
you to send
[SOURce]:VOLTage:LEVel 115;RANGe 150
in one message. If you did not send LEVel you are allowed to send the following command:
[SOURce]:VOLTage 115;FREQuency 60
The optional header [SOURce] precedes the current, frequency, function, phase, pulse, list,
and voltage subsystems. This effectively makes :CURRent,:FREQuency, :FUNCtion,
:PHASe, :PULse, :LIST, and :VOLTage root-level commands.
Moving Among Subsystems
In order to combine commands from different subsystems, you need to be able to restore
the active path to the root. You do this with the root specifier (:). For example, you could
open the output relay and check the status of the Operation Condition register as follows:
OUTPut:STATe ON
STATus:OPERation:CONDition?
Because the root specifier resets the command parser to the root, you can use the root
specifier and do the same thing in one message:
OUTPut on; :STATus:OPERation:CONDition?
The following message shows how to combine commands from different subsystems as well
as within the same subsystem:
VOLTage:RANGe 150;LEVel 115;:CURRent 10;PROTection:STATe ON
Note the use of the optional header LEVel to maintain the correct path within the voltage and
current subsystems and the use of the root specifier to move between subsytems. The
"Enhanced Tree Walking Implementation" given in appendix A of the IEEE 488.2 standard is
not implemented in the AC/DC source.
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Including Common Commands
You can combine common commands with system commands in the same message. Treat
the common command as a message unit by separating it with a semicolon (the message
unit separator). Common commands do not affect the active header path; you may insert
them anywhere in the message.
VOLTage:TRIGger 7.5;*TRG
OUTPut OFF;OUTPut ON;*RCL 2
2.3 Using Queries
Observe the following precautions with queries:
• Set up the proper number of variables for the returned data.
• Read back all the results of a query before sending another command to the AC
source. Otherwise a Query Interrupted error will occur and the unreturned data will be
lost.
2.4 Structure of a SCPI Message
SCPI messages consist of one or more message units ending in a message terminator. The
terminator is not part of the syntax, but implicit in the way your programming language
indicates the end of a line (such as a newline or end-of-line character).
2.4.1
The Message Unit
The simplest SCPI command is a single message unit consisting of a command header (or
keyword) followed by a message terminator.
FREQuency?<newline>
VOLTage?<newline>
The message unit may include a parameter after the header. The parameter usually is
numeric, but it can be a string:
VOLTage 20<newline>
VOLTage MAX<newline>
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2.4.2 Combining Message Units
The following command message is briefly described here, with details in subsequent
paragraphs.
Figure 2-2: Command Message Structure
The basic parts of the above message are:
Message Component
Example
Headers VOLT LEV RANG CURR
Header Separator The colon in VOLT:LEV
Data 8 150
Data Separator The space in VOLT 8 and RANG 150
Message Units VOLT:LEV 8 RANG 150 CURR?
Message Unit
The semicolons in VOLT:LEV 8; and RANG 150;
Separator
Root Specifier The colon in RANG 150;:CURR?
Query Indicator The question mark in CURR?
Message Terminator The <NL> (newline) indicator. Terminators are not part of
the SCPI syntax
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2.4.3 Headers
Headers are instructions recognized by the AC/DC source. Headers (which are sometimes
known as "keywords") may be either in the long form or the short form.
Long Form The header is completely spelled out, such as VOLTAGE,
STATUS, and OUTPUT.
Short Form The header has only the first three or four letters, such as
VOLT, STAT, and OUTP.
The SCPI interface is not sensitive to case. It will recognize any case mixture, such as
TRIGGER, Trigger, TRIGger. Short form headers result in faster program execution.
Header Convention
In the command descriptions in Chapter 3.4 of this manual, headers are emphasized with
boldface type. The proper short form is shown in upper-case letters, such as DELay.
Header Separator
If a command has more than one header, you must separate them with a colon
(VOLT:LEVel
OUTPut:RELay ON).
Optional Headers
The use of some headers is optional. Optional headers are shown in brackets, such as
OUTPut[:STATe] ON. As previously explained under "The Effect of Optional Headers", if you
combine two or more message units into a compound message, you may need to enter the
optional header.
2.4.4
2.4.5
Query Indicator
Following a header with a question mark turns it into a query (VOLTage?,
VOLTage:RANGe?). If a query contains a parameter, place the query indicator at the end of
the last header (VOLTage:LEVel? MAX).
Message Unit Separator
When two or more message units are combined into a compound message, separate the
units with a semicolon (STATus:OPERation?;QUEStionable?).
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2.4.6 Root Specifier
When it precedes the first header of a message unit, the colon becomes the root specifier. It
tells the command parser that this is the root or the top node of the command tree. Note the
difference between root specifiers and header separators in the following examples:
2.4.7
CURRent:PROTection:DELay .1
:CURRent:PROTection:DELay .1
CURRent:PROTection:DELay .1;:VOLTage 12.5
You do not have to precede root-level commands with a colon; there is an implied colon in
front of every root-level command.
All colons are header
separators
Only the first colon is a root
specifier
Only the third colon is a root
specifier
Message Terminator
A terminator informs SCPI that it has reached the end of a message. Three permitted
message 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 manual, there is an assumed message terminator at the end of each
message. If the terminator needs to be shown, it is indicated as <NL> regardless of the
actual terminator character.
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2.5 SCPI Data Formats
All data programmed to or returned from the AC source is in ASCII. The data type may be
numerical or character string.
2.5.1
Numerical Data Formats
Symbol Data Form
Talking Formats
<NR1> Digits with an implied decimal point assumed at the right of the
least-significant digit.
Example: 273
<NR2> Digits with an explicit decimal point. Example:.0273
<NR3> Digits with an explicit decimal point and an exponent.
Example: 2.73E+2
<Bool> Boolean Data.
Example: 0 | 1 or ON | OFF
Listening Formats
<Nrf> Extended format that includes <NR1>, <NR2> and <NR3>.
Examples: 273 273.0 2.73E2
<Nrf+> Expanded decimal format that includes <Nrf> and MIN, MAX.
Examples: 273, 273.0, 2.73E2, MAX.
MIN and MAX are the minimum and maximum limit values that
are implicit in the range specification for the parameter.
<Bool> Boolean Data
Example: 0 | 1
2.5.2
Character Data
Character strings returned by query statements may take either of the following forms,
depending on the length of the returned string:
<CRD> Character Response Data. Permits the return of character strings.
<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.
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3. System Considerations and Interface Setup
This chapter addresses some system issues concerning programming. These are AC/DC
Source addressing and the use of the following IEEE-488 system interface controllers:
• National Instruments PCI-GPIB controller with the Windows
• Agilent 82350 PCI GPIB Controller using the SICL driver library.
3.1 Assigning the IEEE-488 Address
The AC/DC source address can be set remotely or localy. All MX/RS/BPS Series AC/DC
source are shipped with the IEEE-488 address set to 1 from the factory. Once the address is
set, you can assign it inside programs. Note that some PC IEEE-488 controller interface
cards may require you to run a setup utility to assign the AC/DC source address. In most
cases however, the instrument address can be set from the application program.
®
gpib-32.dll driver.
For systems using the National Instruments driver, the address of the IEEE-488 controller is
specified in the software configuration program located in the Windows 95
This is not the instrument address. The controller often uses 0 as its own address so the use
of 0 as an instrument address should be avoided. The AC/DC source address can be
assigned dynamically in the application program. (see the National Instruments GP-IB
documentation supplied with the controller card).
3.2 GPIB Controllers
The HP 82350 and National Instruments PCI-GPIB are two popular GPIB controllers for the
PC platform. Each is briefly described here. See the software documentation supplied with
the controller card for more details.
3.2.1
3.2.2
Agilent 82350 Driver
The Afilent 82350 supports either the VISA or SICL instrument driver I/O library which
provides software compatabilty accross all Agilent GPIB controllers. We recommend you
use this driver to develop your code.
National Instruments GP-IB Driver
Your program must include the National Instruments header file for C programs or the
VBIB.BAS and VBIB-32.BAS modules for Visual Basic. If you are using LabView™ or
LabWindows™, make sure to select the correct controller when installing the IDE program.
Prior to running any applications programs, you must set up the GPIB controller hardware
with the configuration program located in the Windows Control Panel. For plug and play
versions of the AT/GPIB-TNT, the setup will be performed when the card is first detected.
®
control panel.
Regardless of the GPIB interface controller used, the power supply expects a message
termination on EOI or line feed, so set EOI w/last byte of Write. It is also recommended that
you set Disable Auto Serial Polling.
All function calls return the status word IBSTA%, which contains a bit (ERR) that is set if the
call results in an error. When ERR is set, an appropriate code is placed in variable IBERR%.
Be sure to check IBSTA% after every function call. If it is not equal to zero, branch to an
error handler that reads IBERR% to extract the specific error.
Error Handling
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If there is no error-handling code in your program, undetected errors can cause
unpredictable results. This includes "hanging up" the controller and forcing you to reset the
system. Both of the above libraries have routines for detecting program execution errors.
Important: Use error detection throughout your application program.
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3.3 RS232C Interface
MX/RS/BPS power sources that have an RS232 interface but no USB interface use a
special cable to connect to a 9 pin PC serial port. The cable is marked “SOURCE” on one
end and “PC” on the other end and the orientation of the cable is important. The required
serial cable is supplied with the source. If you are unable to locate this cable, you need to
use a cable that conforms to the wiring diagram shown in Figure 3-1.
MX/RS/BPS power source that have both RS232 and USB interface use a standard straight
through DB9 to DB9 serial cable. The orientation of the cable is not important. This cable (CI
P/N 250709) is also supplied with the power source.
Note: If a USB cable is plugged into the USB interface connector of the
power source, the RS232 interface will be disabled. Remove any USB
connection to use the RS232 port.
3.3.1 Serial Communication Test Program
The following sample program written in GW-BASIC can be used to check communication to
the MX/RS/BPS Series source over the RS232C serial interface.
'California Instruments MX Series RS232C Communication Demo Program
'(c) 1995-2002 Copyright California Instruments, All Rights Reserved
'This program is for demonstration purposes only and is not to be
'used for any commercial application
'================================================================
'OPEN COM2. Replace with COM1, COM3 or COM4 for Com port used
'The input and output buffers are set to 2K each although
'this is not required for most operations.
OPEN "COM2:9600,n,8,1,BIN,TB2048,RB2048" FOR RANDOM AS #1
CLS
PRINT "**** INTERACTIVE MODE ****"
'Enter and endless loop to accept user entered commands
DO
INPUT "Enter AC Source Command ('quit' to exit)--> ", cmd$
IF cmd$ <> "QUIT" AND cmd$ <> "quit" THEN
PRINT #1, cmd$ + CHR$(10);
IF INSTR(cmd$, "?") THEN
PRINT #1, CHR$(4);
LINE INPUT #1, response$
PRINT response$
END IF
'Check for Errors after each command is issued
PRINT #1, "*ESR?" + CHR$(10);
PRINT #1, CHR$(4);
LINE INPUT #1, esr$
esr% = VAL(esr$) AND 60
IF esr% AND 4 THEN
PRINT "*** Query Error Reported by AC Source ***"
END IF
IF esr% AND 8 THEN
PRINT "*** Instrument Dependent Error Reported by AC Source ***"
END IF
IF esr% AND 16 THEN
PRINT "*** Command Execution Error Reported by AC Source ***"
END IF
IF esr% AND 32 THEN
PRINT "*** Command Syntax Error Reported by AC Source ***"
END IF
END IF
LOOP UNTIL cmd$ = "QUIT" OR cmd$ = "quit"
'Close COM port on exit
CLOSE #1
END
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3.3.2 Serial Cable Diagram
For MX/RS/BPS units with an RS232 interface but no USB interface, the following wiring
diagram is required for the serial interface cable between the AC/DC power source and a
PC communications port connector.
DB-9 PC
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
DB-9 AC Source
Direction
Pin
output
1
input
2
output
3
output
4
-
5
input
6
-
7
-
8
output
9
Description
reserved
Receive data(RxD)
Tr ansmit da ta (TxD)
Data Terminal Ready (DTR)
Signal Ground
Data Set Re ady (DSR)
no connect
no connect
reserved
Figure 3-1: RS232C Interface cable wiring diagram
If the controller or PC only has a 25 pin D sub COM port, a 25 to 9 pin adaptor is required to
use the serial cable supplied with the MX/RS/BPS. These small triangular shape adaptors
can be purchased at most computer stores or outlets like Radio Shack. If none can be
found, one can be constructed using the diagram shown below.
Figure 3-2: DB25 to DB9 Adaptor pinout
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3.4 USB Interface
A standard USB Series B device connector is located on the rear panel for remote control. A
standard USB cable between the AC Source and a PC or USB Hub may be used. Refer to
user manual 7003-960 for connector pin out information.
Unlike RS232, there are no generic drivers available as a rule for use in programming
environments such as LabView, LabWindows/CVI or Visual Basic. However, support for
USB is included under VISA and may be used to interface to the power source using the
USB interface.
A virtual serial port utility is provided on CD ROM CIC496, which ships with the power
source. This utility will provide a virtual COM port on a PC under Windows XP. This allows
programs to use the USB port as though it is a regular serial port on the PC. The baud rate
for this mode of operation is fixed at 460,800. The USB-Serial Adaptor installation must be
run to install the virtual com port driver. This option is only supported under Windows XP at
this time.
Note: Use of the USB port to control more than one power source from a single PC
is not recommended, as communication may not be reliable. Use GPIB
interface for multiple power source control.
3.4.1 USB Driver Installation
When connecting the AC source through the USB interface to Windows XP PC, the
presence of a new USB device will be detected. Windows will display a dialog after a short
delay prompting the user to install the USB device drivers. There are two steps to this
process.
The first one installs the USB decive itself. The second step allows installation of the USB to
COM virtual port driver. This driver will allow access to the AC source USB interface using a
virtual COM port. Many programming environments support RS232 access but not USB.
The USB-to-COM virtual port driver is distributed on the CIC496 CD ROM.
Step 1: USB Device Driver installation
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When the “Found New Hardware Wizard” dialog appears, select the “No, not this
time.”option. The drivers are not available on line. Click on Next button to continue.
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The next dialog will ask you to install the software for the MX/RS/BPS AC Source. Select the
“Install the software automatically (Recommended)” option and click on Next to continue. If
you are prompted for a file path, browse to the CD root drive and then USB_Inf (eg.
D:\USB_Inf).
The USB device drivers have not been Windows XP Logo certified. Due to the limited
distribution of these drivers, this is unlikely to be done. This Logo certification has no
bearing on the functionality or legitimacy of this device driver so you can ignore this
message. Click the “Continue Anyway” button to continue. Note that some PCs may have
this verification disabled in which case this screen will not pop up.
The installation will now proceed. This process may take several minutes to complete.
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Once completed, the dialog box shown above will appear signaling the device drivers have
been installed. The USB interface is now available to the PC’s operating system. To
complete the install process, click on the “Finish” button.
To verify the USB port is available, you can access the Windows System Properties screen,
select the Hardware tab and open the Windows Device Manager screen. The MX Source
should be listed under “Multi-port serial adapters” as shown in the image below.
Figure 3-3: Windows XP Device Manager - USB Port
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Step 2: USB to Com Virtual Device Driver installation
The second step allows installation of the USB to COM virtual port driver. This driver will
allow access to the AC source USB interface using a virtual COM port. Many programming
environments support RS232 access but not USB. The use of this driver will allow you to
program the power source through the USB port as though it was an RS232 port. The USBto-COM virtual port driver is distributed on the CIC496 CD ROM. This step is required to use
the included Gui Windows software or other application software through USB.
To continue the installation, make sure the CIC496 CD Rom is available. Insert in the CD
ROM drive if needed. If the auto-run screen appears, you can close it.
When the “Found New Hardware Wizard” dialog appears, select the “No, not this
time.”option. The drivers are not available on line. Click on Next button to continue.
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