Fluke 5500A/EP User Manual

5500A/EP

®

Enhancement Package

Users Manual

PN 602562
August 1996 Rev. 3, 4/98

© 1996, 1997, 1998 Fluke Corporation, All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

LIMITED WARRANTY & LIMITATI O N OF LIABILITY

Each Fluke product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service. The warranty period is one year and begins on the date of shipment.
Parts, product repairs and services are warranted for 90 days. This warranty extends only to the
original buyer or end-user customer of a Fluke authorized reseller, and does not apply to fuses,
disposable batteries or to any product which, in Fluke’s opinion, has been misused, altered,
neglected or damaged by accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Fluke
warrants that software will operate substantially in accordance with its functional specifications for
90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media. Fluke does not warrant
that software will be error free or operate without interruption.

Fluke authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user
customers only but have no authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke.
Warranty support is available if product is purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet or
Buyer has paid the applicable international price. Fluke reserves the right to invoice Buyer for
importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is submitted
for repair in another country.

Fluke’s warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke’s option, to refund of the purchase price, free of
charge repair, or replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke authorized
service center within the warranty period.

To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center or send the
product, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid (FOB Destination), to
the nearest Fluke authorized service center. Fluke assumes no risk for damage in transit.
Following warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB
Destination). If Fluke determines that the failure was caused by misuse, alteration, accident or
abnormal condition of operation or handling, Fluke will provide an estimate of repair costs and
obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to
the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return
transportation charges (FOB Shipping Point).

THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, WHETHER
ARISING FROM BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, RELIANCE OR
ANY OTHER THEORY.

Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of
this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or
unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or
enforceability of any other provision.

Fluke Corporation Fluke Europe B.V.
P.O. Box 9090 P.O. Box 1186
Everett, WA 98206-9090 5602 BD Eindhoven
U.S.A. The Netherlands

Table of Contents

Title Page

Introduction.......................................................................................................... 1

Unpacking the 5500A/EP Enhancement Package............................................... 2

Serial Cable ..................................................................................................... 2

Verifying the Battery Eliminator Type for Your Country.............................. 2

5500A/EP Software ............................................................................................. 3

Installing the Software .................................................................................... 3

Modify Your MET/CAL............................................................................. 3

Establishing Traceability Information........................................................ 4

Configuring the Instruments....................................................................... 5

Installing the Verification and Adjustment Procedures.............................. 5

The Switch Accessory ......................................................................................... 5

Switch Accessory Leads.................................................................................. 6

Calibrating an Instrument.................................................................................... 8

Setting up the Equipment................................................................................ 8

Connecting the Instruments............................................................................. 9

Running the Characterization Software .......................................................... 10

Running the Adjustment and Verification Procedures.................................... 10

Remote Commands for Operating the Switch Accessory................................... 14

5500A UUT Setup Parameters........................................................................ 14

Format for Addressing the Switch Accessory................................................. 14

Operating Guidelines........................................................................................... 16

Troubleshooting................................................................................................... 16

Cleaning the Switch Accessory........................................................................... 17

Calibrating the Switch Accessory........................................................................ 17

Specifications....................................................................................................... 17

Part I Specifications: Absolute System Uncertainty ........................................... 17

DC Voltage...................................................................................................... 18

DC Current ...................................................................................................... 19

Resistance........................................................................................................ 19

AC Voltage (Sinewave)................................................................................... 20

AC Current (Sinewave)................................................................................... 22

Part II Specifications: 5500A and 5500A/EP System Repeatability................... 23

DC Voltage...................................................................................................... 23

DC Current ...................................................................................................... 23

Resistance........................................................................................................ 24

AC Voltage (Sinewave)................................................................................... 25

AC Current (Sinewave)................................................................................... 26

Other Specifications............................................................................................. 27

i

5500A/EP

Users Manual

Switch Accessory Internal Capacitor.............................................................. 27

General Specifications..................................................................................... 27

ii

List of Tables

Table Title Page

1. Switch Accessory Lead Functions........................................................................... 6

2. 5500A/EP 9001 MET/CAL Procedures................................................................... 11

3. Switch Accessory Remote Commands.................................................................... 15

iii

5500A/EP

Users Manual

iv

List of Figures

Figure Title Page

1. 5500A/EP Enhancement Package Contents............................................................. 1

2. Battery Eliminators for the 5500/EP Switch Accessory.......................................... 2

3. Switch Accessory Leads .......................................................................................... 7

4. Connection for 5500A Characterization.................................................................. 12

5. Connections for DMM Calibration.......................................................................... 13

v

Introduction

The 5500A/EP Enhancement Package is used in conjunction with a Fluke 5500A

calibrator and a Hewlett Packard 3458A 8½-digit multimeter for performing full
calibration on each of these five popular 5½-6½ digit meters:

• Fluke 8840A

• Fluke 8842A

• Hewlett Packard 34401A

• Hewlett Packard 3478A

• Keithley 2000

To use the 5500A/EP, you will need a Fluke 5500A calibrator, a Hewlett Packard 3458A
DMM, two IEEE controller cards, and a personal computer running Microsoft Windows
and Fluke MET/CAL

®

calibration software, Version 4.3 or higher.

Switch Accessory

Introduction

Calibration
Procedure Disk
PN 613551

MADE IN USA

FLUKE CORPORATION

2A MAX

2

3

5500A/EP
Users Manual
PN 602562

RS-232 Cable

PN 943738

SL SH

VH 2VH 1

5

VL 1

11A MAX

VL 2

A

1000V MAX

4

1

4W SHORT

11A CURRENT

2W COMP

4W COMP

FILTER

CAT

SWITCH ACCESSORY

5500A / EP

1000V

in the manual.

lead is terminated as shown

this accessory unless every

electrical shock, do not use

Output terminal. To avoid

present on any Input or

Hazardous Voltage may be

WARNING:

Battery

Eliminator

4-Wire Jumpers

Binding Post
Adapters
PN 602554

Figure 1. 5500A/EP Enhancement Package Contents

w5f.eps

1

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Unpacking the 5500A/EP Enhancement Package

The 5500A/EP is packaged in a container designed to prevent damage during shipping.
Inspect the enclosed equipment carefully for damage and immediately report any
damage to the shipping company.

When you unpack the 5500A/EP, check for all equipment shown in Figure 1. Report any
shortage to the place of purchase or to the nearest Fluke Service Center.

Serial Cable

The serial cable is data terminal equipment as specified in EIA/TIA-574. It consists of a
male and female connector in a straight through configuration with these connections:

pin 1 and pin 6: +12V
pin 2: receive data
pin 5: ground

Verifying the Battery Eliminator Type for Your Country

Make certain the battery eliminator is the correct type for your country, referring to
Figure 2. If you do not have the right type, contact your Fluke representative.

Warning

The Fluke BE860 battery eliminator provides t he necessary
voltage isolation for the switch accessory. To avoid the risk of
electrical shock, operate the switch accessory only with the
BE860 battery eliminator.

Europe PN 942602 US PN 942599

PN 944595

UK PN 942607AU NZ

JP PN 942610

Figure 2. Battery Eliminators for the 5500/EP Switch Accessory

2

w4f.eps

5500A/EP Software

The 5500A/EP procedure disk contains procedures for characterizing the 5500A and for
adjusting and verifying the Fluke 8840A, 8842A, Hewlett Packard 34401A, Hewlett
Packard 3478A, and Keithley 2000. The calibration programs provide closed-loop
procedures that adjust and verify the DMMs listed above to their one-year specifications.
All of the procedures have been approved by the manufacturer of the associated DMM.

These procedures require MET/CAL calibration software, version 4.3 or higher installed
on your PC, configured with two IEEE interface cards (ports 0 and 1).

Installing the Software

Installation consists of four parts: modify your MET/CAL, establishing traceability for
the 5500A, the 5500A/EP (i.e., the switch accessory), and the Hewlett Packard 3458A,
entering the configuration information for each, and then installing the verification and
adjustment procedures.

The 5500A/EP software utilizes Microsoft DOS calls. In Windows 3.1, be

certain the DOS prompt has the property “Close Window on Exit”. To set
that property, use the PIF Editor (under Program Manager - [Main]) to
edit the file DOSPRMPT.PIF. Be certain the box for “Close Window on
Exit” is checked. In Windows 95, this same property can be set by opening
up the MS-DOS prompt and then clicking the “Properties” icon on the title
bar. Under the “Properties” file folder, be certain the box for “Close on
exit” is checked.

5500A/EP Software

Note

Modify Your MET/CAL

Modify Your MET/CAL as follows:

1. Create a correction file directory.

You must first create a directory for the MET/CAL correction file if it does not
already exist. Neither the MET/CAL installation program, nor the Setup program on
this disk, creates a correction file directory. For most users this will be
"C:\metcal\correct" (see your PC’s operating system manual for information about
how to create and change directories).

The correction file directory should be on the workstation from which the
procedure will run even if MET/CAL is run from a network. This is because
corrections are specific to the standards used for calibration. A correction
file directory must be created on each workstation on which the 5500A/EP
procedures will be run.

Note

3

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

2. Edit metcal.ini.

You must edit metcal.ini on each workstation where a correction directory was
created so that the value of the "correctdir=" parameter is the directory path from
step 1. The metcal.ini file as shipped has "correctdir=none". The file metcal.ini is
located in the c:\windows directory. Use an ASCII editor like the Windows Notepad
to edit the file.

Establishing Traceability Information

To establish traceability, you need to enter asset and serial numbers for each instrument,
along with additional traceability information.

The instructions for entering traceability information is provided below for two different
MET/CAL 4.2 modes: Legacy and Database. Database mode uses new methods than
those in earlier versions of MET/CAL. For more information, refer to your Metrology
Software manuals.

Legacy Mode

1. In Legacy mode, log into MET/CAL, and open up the MET/CAL administrator

application. In the Administrator, select File/Open, then select Traceability.

2. To enter traceability information for the Fluke 5500A and the HP 3458A, select Edit

Traceability to open the Edit Trace Entry Dialog box. Select Fluke 5500A and
verify that the fields show the correct information. Edit the fields if necessary and
click OK when you are finished. Repeat for the HP 3458A.

3. To enter traceability information for the switch accessory, select Add to open the

Add New Trace Entry dialog box. Type “Fluke 5500EP” into the top field. Fill in the
remainder of the dialog box and click OK when you are finished.

The 5500A/EP does not require periodic calibration, but you must enter a
calibration interval. Enter a lengthy period of time in the Interval box that
permits infrequent calibration (i.e., 1095 days, or three years).

Database Mode

1. In Database Mode, open the MET/CAL Manual Edit Tool. Select Records/New to

open the Inventory screen.

2. In the Inventory screen, fill in the asset number for one of the three instruments, and

fill out the remaining information. Repeat for each instrument: the Fluke 5500A, the
HP 3458A, and the Fluke 5500A/EP.

Note

4

Configuring the Instruments

Once you have entered the instruments traceability information, you must verify the

instruments’ configuration, to ensure the calibration system communicates properly.

1. Open the MET/CAL Editor. Select Tools/Edit Configuration (or press F12) to open

the Edit Configuration dialog box. Fill in the dialog box as follows:

• Select the Fluke 5500A if it is already configured. If it is not configured, select

Add; then select Fluke 5500A in the drop-down list. Type in the same asset
number you entered for the traceability information.

• Choose IEEE-488 as the remote interface, and enter the address, if necessary.

The factory default is 4.

• Under Extended Performance, click the box next to 5500A/EP so it contains an

‘x’. Then click OK.

2. Repeat for the HP 3458A. The IEEE-488 address default is 22. If you change these

addresses, be sure you use different ones for the Fluke 5500A and the HP 3458A.

3. Repeat for the Fluke 5500A/EP. For this instrument, you will need to type “Fluke

5500EP” in the top field. Then select the following parameters:

• Choose Serial as the remote interface.

The Switch Accessory

• Choose COM5500 as the port.

• Enter the alias as 5500EP.

Installing the Verification and Adjustment Procedures

Place the 5500A/EP disk into disk drive A or B, and select File/Run from the Program
Manager. Type “a:setup” or “b:setup” and click OK. Follow the on screen prompts.
When the “Select Calibrator Dialog” is displayed, select “All”. Install all procedures
displayed in the “Procedure Selection Dialog”. Procedures are installed in compiled form
and are ready to be executed from the Run Time.

The Switch Accessory

The switch accessory handles all analog outputs that are sourced by the 5500A,
operating according to remote commands sent over the 5500A serial bus. It contains
shielded test leads, an internal 4-wire ohms short, and a 0.01 µF capacitive filter for
high-resistive measurements that may require extra noise filtering.

The switch accessory operates as a routing accessory between either of the two sets of
instruments listed below:

• The 5500A and the Hewlett Packard 3458A for characterizing the 5500A.

• The 5500A and the DMM you are calibrating.

Lethal voltages can appear on any one of the switch

accessory’s terminals. To avoid electrical shock, never operat e
the switch accessory unless all leads are connected to an
instrument according to the instructions in t hi s manual .

Warning

5

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Switch Accessory Leads

The switch accessory leads are shown in Figure 3 and their functions are provided in
Table 1. The functions refer to the terms provided on the panels for the 5500A, Hewlett
Packard 3458A, and the specified DMMs.

Output Leads Switch Accessory Output DMM or Hewlett Packard 3458A Input

Table 1. Switch Accessory Lead Functions

1
2
3
4
5

Input Leads Switch Accessory Input Fluke 5500A Calibrator Output

6
7
8
9

A: 11A max. Current High Input
VL1 & VL2: V, 2W COMP Voltage Low Input
VH1 & VH2: V, 2W COMP Voltage High Input
SL: A, 4W COMP 4-Wire Ω Low Sense Input
SH: A, 4W COMP 4-Wire Ω High Sense Input

NORMAL LO NORMAL V, Ω, RTD LO
NORMAL HI NORMAL V, Ω, RTD HI
AUX LO AUX A, Ω-COMP, AUX V LO
AUX HI AUX A, Ω-COMP, AUX V HI

6

Black

2

Red

3

White

Yellow

4

Red

1

The Switch Accessory

5500A / EP

1000V

CAT

4

3

2W COMP

4

FLUKE CORPORATION

MADE IN USA

4W COMP

1

3

SWITCH ACCESSORY

1

2

FILTER

2

5500A NORM

LO
HI

HILO

5500A AUX

Black

6

Red

7

White

8

Yellow

9

WARNING:

Hazardous Voltage may be

present on any Input or

Output terminal. To avoid

electrical shock, do not use

this accessory unless every

lead is terminated as shown

in the manual.

5

11A CURRENT

4W SHORT

1000V MAX

A
VL 2

VL 1

11A MAX

VH 2VH 1

5

SL SH

2A MAX

5

Figure 3. Switch Accessory Leads

w3f.eps

7

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Calibrating an Instrument

The DMMs specified in this manual can be adjusted and verified to traceable results, by
following the procedures in this manual. Essentially, there are two major steps to
Calibration, which are:

1. Characterizing the 5500A.

Before you perform any calibration procedure with the 5500A/EP you must

characterize the 5500A’s outputs. The characterization procedure first performs a
zero calibration on the 5500A and an automatic calibration (AUTOCAL) on the
Hewlett Packard 3458A. After the calibration procedures are complete, the Hewlett
Packard 3458A is used to measure the 5500A’s actual output at cardinal points
defined by the UUT procedures. This data is stored in a correction file within
MET/CAL.

The characterization is valid for 24 hours as long as the temperature remains within

o

C and the humidity does not change more than ±10% RH. For convenience, you

±2

can run the characterization unattended overnight, and the characterization will be
valid for the next workday. Or start the characterization procedure at the beginning
of each workday.

2. Adjusting and Verifying the DMM.

Once the characterization is complete, the DMM adjustment and verification
procedures can be performed, provided the MET/CAL procedures have been
installed and compiled on the PC. The MET/CAL program prompts you through the
connection process, allowing for a stabilization period to eliminate thermal emfs in
the system. It also automatically performs a zeroing operation on the 5500A.

Setting up the Equipment

The 5500A/EP is designed to work with the same hardware configuration for both the
characterization of the 5500A, and adjustment and verification of the DMM. The only
difference between the two setups is the use of a Hewlett Packard 3458A for
characterization. Once characterization is complete, you simply disconnect the Hewlett
Packard 3458A and replace it with the DMM you are calibrating, using the same
connections.

Find a location where you can permanently keep the setup. Your location must provide
space for the 5500A calibrator, room to place the switch accessory in front of the 5500A,
and ample room on top or preferably to the left of the 5500A to place the DMM or the
Hewlett Packard 3458A.

When the switch accessory is in operation, high value resistances, which
are highly susceptible to noise pickup, are being sourced. The switch

accessory’s leads contain shielding, and an additional capacitive filter is
available to provide additional filtering. To minimize noise pickup, remain
at a distance of at least 0.5 meters from the switch accessory during
operation.

Note

Hazardous Voltage may be present on any Input or Output
terminal of the 5500A/EP switch accessory. To avoid electrical
shock, do not use this accessory unless every lead is
terminated as shown in this manual.

8

Warning

Connecting the Instruments

This procedure sets up the instruments in their permanent configuration for both the
characterization of the 5500A, and adjustment and verification of the DMM. Refer to
Figures 4 and 5 during setup.

The binding post adapters have retractable safet y shrouds t hat
may expose the metal plug. To avoid electrical shock, connect
the binding post adapters to the Hewlet t Packard 3458A before
you make any other connections, and always make sure the
plug is securely inserted into the Hewlett Packard 3458A. The

binding post adapters have a manufacturer’s rating of 1000V
rms and 3A and should not be used beyond these ratings.

1. Check your hardware configuration. The switch accessory should be placed in front

of the 5500A. The Hewlett Packard 3458A or the DMM should be placed either on
top of the 5500A or off to the left side.

2. Use the serial cable to connect the serial port on the switch accessory to the Serial 2

to UUT connector on the 5500A. No adapters should be necessary.

3. Use the IEEE-488 bus to connect the IEEE-488 connector on the 5500A to the IEEE

Port 0 on the PC running MET/CAL.

Calibrating an Instrument

Warning

4. Connect the battery eliminator cable to the switch accessory. Plug the switch

accessory’s battery eliminator into a wall outlet.

5. Connect the PC to the Hewlett Packard 3458A or to the DMM according to one of

the following instructions.

• For characterization, connect the IEEE-488 port on the Hewlett Packard 3458A

to the IEEE Port 0 on the PC running MET/CAL. You may connect it to the back
of the connector running from the 5500A.

• For verification and adjustment of a DMM, connect the IEEE-488 port on the

DMM to the IEEE Port 1 connector on the PC running MET/CAL.

6. The switch accessory’s input leads are the shorter ones that are designed to reach the

5500A when the switch accessory is placed directly in front of it. The output leads
connect to the Hewlett Packard 3458A or DMM. Connect all leads according to
Table 1 under “The Switch Accessory.” Refer to Figures 4 and 5.

Before you connect the switch accessory to the Hewlett Packard 3458A, make sure
the binding post adapters are connected to its inputs.

Warning

Press R on the 5500A before connecting the switch
accessory. Resetting the 5500A helps prevent voltages f r om
being present at its connectors, or at the terminal s of t he
switch accessory.

9

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Running the Characterization Software

You need to characterize the 5500A every 24 hours to prepare it for calibration during
the remainder of that day. Before you run the characterization software, follow the
instructions for connecting the hardware, referring to Figure 4.

Follow these steps to run the characterization procedure.

1. Open the MET/CAL program group and select the Runtime module.

2. From the procedure list, select the program:

Fluke 5500A: (24 hr.) CAL CHAR /3458 /5500A/EP

3. Follow the prompts to complete the program. The MET/CAL program allows for

settling times after any additional connections are made during the procedure.

During the Characterization process, when prompted for the asset number,
enter the asset number of the EP Switch Accessory, and not the 5500A
Calibrator.

Running the Adjustment and Verification Procedures

Note

To adjust and verify a DMM, make certain the 5500A has been characterized within the
past 24 hours according to the instructions in this manual. Before you run the adjustment
and verification software, remove the Hewlett Packard 3458A from the calibration
system and install the DMM you are calibrating, referring to Figure 5.

Follow these steps to verify and adjust the DMM.

1. Open the MET/CAL program group and select the Runtime module.

2. Select the procedure you need to run and follow the prompts to complete the

program. You will be instructed to make some connections to the hardware for
zeroing during the procedure. The MET/CAL program allows for settling times after
any of these connections take place.

The verification and adjustment procedures are listed in Table 2.

10

Calibrating an Instrument

Table 2. 5500A/EP MET/CAL Procedures

Name that appears in procedure directory Function of procedure

Fluke 8840A: CAL ADJ IEEE /5500A/EP Adjusts the Fluke 8840A
Fluke 8840A: (1 yr.) CAL VER IEEE /5500A/EP Verifies the Fluke 8840A
Fluke 8842A: CAL ADJ IEEE /5500A/EP Adjusts the Fluke 8842A
Fluke 8842A: (1 yr.) CAL VER IEEE /5500A/EP Verifies the Fluke 8842A
HP 34401A: (1 yr.) CAL ADJ IEEE /5500A/EP Adjusts the Hewlett Packard 34401A
HP 34401A: (1 yr.) CAL VER IEEE /5500A/EP Verifies the Hewlett Packard 34401A
HP 3478A: CAL ADJ IEEE /5500A/EP Adjusts the Hewlett Packard 3478A
HP 3478A: (1 yr.) CAL VER IEEE /5500A/EP Verifies the Hewlett Packard 3478A
Keithley 2000: (1 yr.) CAL ADJ IEEE /5500A/EP Adjusts the Keithley 2000
Keithley 2000: (1 yr.) CAL VER IEEE /5500A/EP Verifies the Keithley 2000
Fluke 5500A: (24 hr.) CAL CHAR /3458 /5500A/EP Characterizes the Fluke 5500A

11

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Wall Outlet

Fluke 5500A (Back)

HP3458 (Back)

HP3458 (Front)

SENSE

HI

LO

200V PK

GRD

Black

Battery

Eliminator

IEEE-488

INPUT

1A 250V

HI

LO

I

Red

Red

Yellow

White

Serial 2
To UUT

Serial 1
From Host

IEEE-488

To PC
IEEE Port 0

Fluke 5500A (Front)

SCOPE

AUXNORMAL

HI

Red

LO

Black

White

TRIG

OUT

Yellow

A

VL1

VL2

VH2

VH1

SL

Figure 4. Connections for 5500A Characterization

12

SH

Fluke 5500EP

5500A

AUX

LO

HI

LO

HI

5500A
NORM

w2f.eps

Wall Outlet

Calibrating an Instrument

Fluke 5500A (Back)

Battery

Eliminator

Fluke 8842 (Back)

IEEE-488

Fluke 8842A (Front)

INPUT SENSE

HIHI

LOLO

2A

Black

Red

Red

White

Yellow

IEEE-488

To PC
IEEE Port 1

Fluke 5500A (Front)

HI

LO

Black

Red

Serial 2
To UUT

Serial 1
From Host

To PC
IEEE Port 0

SCOPE

AUXNORMAL

TRIG

OUT

Yellow

White

A

VL1

VL2

VH2

VH1

SL

SH

Fluke 5500EP

Figure 5. Connections for DMM Calibration

5500A

AUX

LO

HI

LO

HI

5500A
NORM

w1f.eps

13

5500A/EP Enhancement Package

Users Manual

Remote Commands for Operating the Switch Accessory

The switch accessory has 11 states, all of which can only be activated when the switch
accessory receives a remote command. Remote commands are sent from a PC and
transmitted to the 5500A from the IEEE 4888 or Serial 1 port. The 5500A sends the
command to the switch accessory from its Serial 2 UUT port or directly using a serial
port from the PC.

The communication from the 5500A to the switch accessory is in one direction only, and
no feedback from the switch accessory back to the 5500A is provided. To avoid sending
the wrong command to the switch accessory, make sure the commands for the 5500A
and switch accessory are synchronized when you create the programs.

5500A UUT Setup Parameters

When you use MET/CAL, the parameters for addressing the switch accessory through

the 5500A’s UUT serial port are set automatically so you do not need to program the
5500A. If you address the switch accessory without using MET/CAL, you must program
the correct parameters into the UUT Setup menu in the 5500A.

To enter these parameters, follow this procedure.

1. From the 5500A’s Setup menu, press the following softkeys to access the REMOTE
Setup menu: INSTMT SETUP → REMOTE SETUP.

2. In the Remote Setup menu, verify the HOST option is set to “gpib” and change if
necessary.

3. From the Remote Setup menu, press the softkey under UUT SETUP to access the
UUT Setup menu. Enter the parameters shown below into the UUT Setup menu.

Format for Addressing the Switch Accessory

MET/CAL automatically sets up the proper addressing protocol for each command, but
if you are addressing the switch accessory without using MET/CAL, you must precede
each command with the UUT_SEND command. For example, to program the switch
accessory to provide a 4-Wire short, send the command below, including the quotes:

UUT_SEND “A>“ Programs the switch accessory to provide a 4-Wire Short circuit.

The states and commands are provided in Table 3.

w6f.eps

The internal capacitor should be used for 5500A resistance
outputs only. If the capacitor is used, applying voltages in
excess of 90V dc or peak-to-peak ac will cause the 5500A to go
to standby. The internal 4-Wire Short Ci rcuit mode places a
short circuit across the 5500A NORMAL HI and LO t erminals.
Applying voltages in excess of 330 mV will cause the 5500A to
trip into standby.

14

Caution

Remote Commands for Operating the Switch Accessory

Table 3. Switch Accessory Remote Commands

Mode Remote

Command

Voltage, Ohms
(no compensation)
4-Wire Short Circuit A> Relay cluster 5 is ON. Provides a 4-Wire short to the

4-Wire Short Circuit
with filter

2-Wire Comp

Ω

4-Wire Ω
Low A

4-Wire Ω
Pseudo

Ω

no compensation with filter.

@? Power- on default. All relays are OFF. Used for

Voltage and OHMS COMP off.

UUT. CAUTION: Shorts the 5500A NORM Hi and LO
terminals.

Q. Same as 4-Wire Short Circuit, but with the Ohms filter

applied across the 5500A NORM HI and LO. Used for
discharging the Ohms filter capacitor.

B= Relay cluster 3 is ON. Used when the 5500A OHMS 2-

Wire COMP mode is selected.

D; Relay cluster 2 is ON. Used when the 5500A OHMS 4-

Wire COMP mode is selected. Can also be used when
the 5500A is in current mode, to carry up to 2A of
current from the 5500A.

F9 Relay clusters 2 and 3 are ON. Provides a 4-Wire

connection to the UUT, with the 5500A set to OHMS
COMP off.

P/ Same as Voltage (@?), but with the Ohms filter

applied across the 5500A NORM HI and LO.
CAUTION: Do not use this mode for Voltage.

Description

Ω

2-Wire with filter

Ω

4-Wire with filter

Ω

pseudo 4-Wire with filter
Current H7 Relay cluster 4 is ON. Used for all 5500A current

Test _space

R- Same as 2-Wire Comp/Normal Ω (B=) but with the

Ohms filter applied across the 5500A NORM Hi and
LO

T+ Same as 4-Wire Ω/ Low A (D;), but with the Ohms filter

applied across the 5500A NORM Hi and LO

V) Same as 4-Wire Ω, Pseudo (F9) but with the Ohms

filter applied across the 5500A NORM Hi and LO

outputs.
Test mode only. Activates all relay clusters and LEDs.

(Underscore,
then space)

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Operating Guidelines

Follow these guidelines carefully when operating the switch accessory.

Using the 4-Wire Ohms mode for carrying more than 2A can
damage the switch accessory. For currents greater than 2A,
use Current mode, and the A output lead.

Relay clusters 1, 2, and 4 should never carry current above 2A.
Currents higher than 2 amps can damage these relays.

• Thermal emf errors from self heating can occur if high current outputs are followed
too closely by low-level V dc (<3V) or by resistance. When sourcing current greater
than 2A, wait for a period of twice the amount of time the high current was on before
following the output with low level V dc (<3V) or any resistance outputs.

For example, if 11A was sourced for 30 seconds, wait at least one minute before

sourcing any V dc that is less than 3V, or before sourcing resistance. This eliminates
any self-heating thermal emf errors that may occur.

• The external 4-wire short is used to establish the absolute zero reference of the
DMM before the switch accessory is connected.

Caution

• The 4-Wire Short Circuit should not be used to provide a low ohms short for 2-Wire
Ohms calibration. Use the 5500A 2-Wire COMP mode instead. To provide a
reference point for 2-Wire ohms calibration, set the switch accessory to 2-Wire
Comp/Normal Ohms mode (UUT_SEND B=) and set the 5500A to 0.000 Ohms, 2­Wire COMP.

Hint: To set the switch accessory back to its default voltage state, place the 5500A into
standby mode (press Y). Once the 5500A is in standby, briefly unplug the BE860
battery eliminator from the switch accessory, and then reinsert it.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter problems during characterization or calibration, check all hardware
connections and check that your MET/CAL software is set up properly as outlined
below. You may wish to consult your Metrology Software manuals for more assistance.

1. Verify that the MET/CAL directory structure indicates the following:

• MET/CAL is not in the Runtime Demo mode.

• ASCII procedure files (*.PRO) must be located in the directory designated

specifically for these files.

• Picture files (*.BMP) must be located in a directory designated for picture files.

• The traceability and configuration information is entered correctly as shown in

this manual.

2. Ensure the system is set up according to the instructions in this manual.

16

Cleaning the Switch Accessory

Keep the switch accessory’s case free of dust or dirt by cleaning when necessary. Use a
soft cloth dampened with water or a non-abrasive mild cleaning solution that does not
harm plastics.

Caution

Do not use aromatic hydrocarbons or chlorinated solvents for
cleaning the switch accessory. These chemical s can damage
the plastic materials used in the switch accessory.

Calibrating the Switch Accessory

Calibration of the switch accessory is not required. The characterization process using
the Hewlett Packard 3458A determines the uncertainty of the 5500A and switch
accessory. Traceability of the 5500A/EP and the 5500A calibrator is through the Hewlett
Packard 3458A DMM.

Specifications

Cleaning the Switch Accessory

There are two parts to the specifications for the 5500A/EP, referred to as Parts I and II.
Part I specifications provide the 24-hour uncertainty of cardinal points. Part II refers to
the repeatability of the 5500A when it is used with the 5500A/EP switch accessory.

Error terms for the 24-hour uncertainty of cardinal points are combined in a root sum
square fashion, according to the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement
(ISBN 92-67-10188-9). All specifications are to the cable ends of the 5500A/EP switch
accessory.

Part I Specifications: Absolute System Uncertainty

These specifications show the cardinal points that are required for adjusting and
verifying the following DMMs: the Fluke 8840A, Fluke 8842A, Hewlett Packard
34401A, Hewlett Packard 3478A, and Keithley 2000. These specifications are the
complete system uncertainties of the 5500A and 5500A/EP at the specified cardinal
points, using the Hewlett Packard 3458A as the standard, and are stored on the procedure
disk’s accuracy file when a DMM is calibrated. They use the Hewlett Packard 3458A
DMM as the standard and include error terms from the 5500A, 5500A/EP switch
accessory, and the Hewlett Packard 3458A.

Uncertainties are derived from the 5500A and 5500A/EP repeatability specifications
listed in this section, and the Hewlett Packard 3458A one-year specifications indicated
by Hewlett Packard. Error sources are combined by using a root sum square method as
described in the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement.

To determine the absolute uncertainty of outputs not listed below, you should combine
the Repeatability error term in Part II with the absolute uncertainty of the Hewlett
Packard 3458A. Use the root sum square method, as outlined in the Guide to the

Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement.

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DC Voltage

Cardinal Point Output 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output)

10 mV 175 ppm
19 mV 105 ppm
±30 mV 75 ppm
50 mV 52 ppm

±72.5 mV 42 ppm
±100 mV 35 ppm
±135 mV 32 ppm

190 mV 28 ppm
±260 mV 25 ppm
300 mV 24 ppm
±0.51V 15 ppm

0.99V to 1.01V, and -1.00V to -1.01V 13 ppm

1.9V 12 ppm
±3V 12 ppm
5V 12 ppm
±10V 13 ppm
19V 18 ppm
30V 17 ppm
±100V 20 ppm
190V 20 ppm
300V 20 ppm
500V 20 ppm
±1000V 20 ppm

18

Part I Specifications: Absolute System Uncertainty

DC Current

Cardinal Point Output 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh

± (ppm output)

1 mA 60 ppm
10 mA 60 ppm
±100 mA 110 ppm
190 mA 97 ppm [1]

0.5A 235 ppm
±1A 190 ppm
2A 200 ppm [2]

2.2A 200 ppm [2]

1. 5500A 90-day specification.

2. Uncertainty is determined by extrapolation.

Resistance

Cardinal Point Output (applies for 2W, 4W,

and pseudo 4W COMP modes)

10Ω 125 ppm
19Ω 130 ppm
100Ω 36 ppm
190Ω 26 ppm
1 kΩ 33 ppm

1.9 kΩ 29 ppm
10 kΩ 37 ppm
19 kΩ 31 ppm
100 kΩ 29 ppm
190 kΩ 42 ppm
1 MΩ 34 ppm

1.9 MΩ 139 ppm [1]
10 MΩ 135 ppm
19 MΩ 775 ppm

24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output)

100 MΩ 950 ppm

1. 5500A 90-day specification.

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AC Voltage (Sinewave)

Cardinal Point Output Frequency 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output)

1 mV 100 Hz 4700 ppm

10 mV 1 kHz 820 ppm

28 mV 20 kHz 480 ppm

100 mV 200 Hz 165 ppm

200 Hz 820 ppm

50 kHz 1600 ppm
100 kHz 5600 ppm

10 Hz 525 ppm
20 Hz 525 ppm
45 Hz 165 ppm

1 kHz 165 ppm
50 kHz 410 ppm
100 kHz 1000 ppm
20 kHz 330 ppm

190 mV 50 kHz 475 ppm

100 kHz 1025 ppm
20 kHz 290 ppm

280 mV 50 kHz 440 ppm

100 kHz 975 ppm

300 mV 200 Hz 260 ppm

20 Hz 370 ppm
200 Hz 140 ppm
1 kHz 140 ppm

1V 20 kHz 245 ppm

50 kHz 385 ppm
100 kHz 920 ppm
300 kHz 3250 ppm

1.5V 20 kHz 340 ppm

20

Part I Specifications: Absolute System Uncertainty

AC Voltage (Sinewave), cont.

Cardinal Point Output Frequency 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output)

20 Hz 445 ppm

1.9V 45 Hz 232 ppm [1]

200 Hz 232 ppm [1]
20 Hz 390 ppm
50 Hz 221 ppm [1]

2.8V 20 kHz 280 ppm

50 kHz 425 ppm
100 kHz 950 ppm

3V 1 kHz 175 ppm

50 kHz 415 ppm

3.2V 100 kHz 930 ppm

300 kHz 3400 ppm
10 Hz 370 ppm

10V 1 kHz 150 ppm

50 kHz 410 ppm

100 kHz 1075 ppm
15V 100 kHz 1500 ppm
19V 100 kHz 1450 ppm

20 kHz 350 ppm
28V 50 kHz 500 ppm

100 kHz 1425 ppm
32V 50 kHz 500 ppm

100 kHz 1400 ppm

200 Hz 275 ppm
100V 1 kHz 275 ppm

20 kHz 330 ppm

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AC Voltage (Sinewave), cont.

Cardinal Point Output Frequency 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh± (ppm output)

280V 20 kHz 654 ppm [1]
320V 20 kHz 647 ppm [1]
500V 1 kHz 490 ppm
700V 1 kHz 470 ppm

[1] 5500A 90-day specification.

AC Current (Sinewave)

Cardinal Point Output Frequency 24 hour Uncertainty, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output)

10 mA 1 kHz 525 ppm

10 kHz 510 ppm

45 Hz 920 ppm

10 kHz 1850 ppm
30 mA 5 kHz 1200 ppm

1 kHz 550 ppm
100 mA 5 kHz 775 ppm

10 kHz 1950 ppm
190 mA 1 kHz 858 ppm [1]

10 kHz 4500 ppm
300 mA 1 kHz 800 ppm [1]

0.5A 1 kHz 1400 ppm [1]
1 A 1 kHz 1100 ppm [1]

5 kHz 2200 ppm

1.9A 1 kHz 958 ppm [1]

5 kHz 2000 ppm [2]
2A 1 kHz 950 ppm [1]

5 kHz 1950 ppm [2]

2.1A 5 kHz 1915 ppm [2]

2.2A 1 kHz 936 ppm [1]

1. 5500A 90-day specification.

2. Uncertainty is determined by extrapolation.

22

Part II Specifications: 5500A and 5500A/EP System Repeatability

Part II Specifications: 5500A and 5500A/EP System Repeatability

These specifications refer to the repeatability of the 5500A when used with the
5500A/EP switch accessory. It includes error terms for the 5500A calibrator and switch
accessory, These specifications includes error terms for both the 5500A and 5500A/EP,
assuming the same loading and application of the environmental conditions that are
specified. These do not provide error terms for the Hewlett Packard 3458A.
Repeatability applies for the environmental conditions shown.

DC Voltage

Range 24 hour Repeatability, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output + V)

0 mV to 329.9999 mV 17 + 1.5 µV
0V to 3.299999V 7 + 1.5 µV
0V to 32.99999V 8 + 15 µV
30V to 329.9999V 14 + 150 µV
100V to 1000.000V 15 + 475 µV

DC Current

Range 24 hour Repeatability, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output + A)

0 mA to 3.29999 mA 30 + 15 nA
0 mA to 32.9999 mA 30 + 100 nA
0 mA to 329.999 mA 60 + 2.5 µA
0A to 2.19999A 75 + 15 µA
0A to 11A 100 + 100 µA

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Resistance

Range 24 hour Repeatability, ±2°C, ±10% rh ± (ppm output + Ω)

0Ω to 10.99Ω 12 + 1.1 mΩ
11Ω to 32.999Ω 12 + 2 mΩ
33Ω to 109.999Ω 9 + 2 mΩ
110Ω to 329.999Ω 9 + 2 mΩ
330Ω to 1.09999 kΩ 16 + 14 mΩ

1.1 kΩ to 3.29999 kΩ 16 + 14 mΩ

3.3 kΩ to 10.9999 kΩ 18 + 160 mΩ
11 kΩ to 32.9999 kΩ 18 + 160 mΩ
33 kΩ to 109.999 kΩ 18 + 750 mΩ
110 kΩ to 329.999 kΩ 18 + 750 mΩ
330 kΩ to 1.09999 MΩ 18 + 8Ω

1.1 MΩ to 3.29999 MΩ 18 + 8Ω

3.3 MΩ to 10.9999 MΩ 75 + 85Ω
11 MΩ to 32.9999 MΩ 140 + 85Ω
33 MΩ to 109.999 MΩ 700 + 900Ω
110 MΩ to 330 MΩ 950 + 3 kΩ

24

Part II Specifications: 5500A and 5500A/EP System Repeatability

AC Voltage (Sinewave)

Range Frequency 24 hour Repeatability, ±2°C, ±10% rh

± (ppm output + V)

10 Hz to 45 Hz 700 + 3 µV
45 Hz to 10 kHz 300 + 3 µV

1 mV to 32.999 mV 10 kHz to 20 kHz 300 + 3 µV

20 kHz to 50 kHz 300 + 3 µV
50 kHz to 100 kHz 400 + 5 µV
100 kHz to 500 kHz 1200 + 10 µV
10 Hz to 45 Hz 400 + 10 µV
45 Hz to 10 kHz 75 + 4 µV

33 mV to 329.999 mV 10 kHz to 50 kHz 125 + 8 µV

50 kHz to 100 kHz 200 + 32 µV
100 kHz to 500 kHz 650 + 70 µV
10 Hz to 45 Hz 275 + 60 µV
45 Hz to 10 kHz 50 + 25 µV

0.33V to 3.29999V 10 kHz to 50 kHz 100 + 50 µV
50 kHz to 100 kHz 200 + 125 µV
100 kHz to 500 kHz 450 + 250 µV
10 Hz to 45 Hz 275 + 650 µV

3.3V to 32.9999V 45 Hz to 10 kHz 75 + 200 µV
10 kHz to 50 kHz 150 + 600 µV
50 kHz to 100 kHz 450 + 1.8 mV

33V to 329.999V 45 kHz to 1 kHz 75 + 2 mV

1 kHz to 20 kHz 150 + 6 mV

330V to 1000V [1] 45 Hz to 1 kHz 75 + 20 mV

1 kHz to 10 kHz 50 + 16 mV

1. The standard Hewlett Packard 3458A can measure up to 700V. A high voltage measuring option is

available from Hewlett Packard for making measurements up to 1000V.

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AC Current (Sinewave)

Range Frequency 24 hour Repeatability, ±2°C, ±10% rh

0.029 mA to 0.32999 mA 45 to 1 kHz 325 + 85 nA

0.33 mA to 3.2999 mA 45 to 1 kHz 300 + 100 nA

± (ppm output + A)

10 to 20 Hz 650 + 55 nA
20 Hz to 45 Hz 325 + 55 nA

1 to 5 kHz 1000 + 55 nA
5 to 10 kHz 3100 + 55 nA
10 to 20 Hz 500 + 100 nA
20 Hz to 45 Hz 300 + 100 nA

1 to 5 kHz 500 + 100 nA
5 to 10 kHz 1600 + 10 nA
10 to 20 Hz 500 + 1000 nA
20 Hz to 45 Hz 300 + 1000 nA

3.3 mA to 32.999 mA 45 to 1 kHz 250 + 1000 nA
1 to 5 kHz 500 + 1000 nA
5 to 10 kHz 1500 + 1000 nA
10 to 20 Hz 600 + 12 µA
20 Hz to 45 Hz 325 + 12 µA

33 mA to 329.99 mA 45 to 1 kHz 275 + 12 µA

1 to 5 kHz 550 + 12 µA
5 to 10 kHz 1600 + 12 µA
10 to 45 Hz 550 + 100 µA

0.33A to 2.19999A 45 to 1 kHz 350 + 100 µA
1 to 5 kHz 1700 + 100 µA
45 to 65 Hz 400 + 700 µA

2.2A to 11A [1] 65 to 500 Hz 400 + 700 µA
500 to 1 kHz 1000 + 700 µA

1. The Hewlett Packard 3458A has an upper current limit of 1A.

26

Other Specifications

Other Specifications

Switch Accessory Internal Capacitor

Value Maximum Voltage

0.01 µF 50V dc or ac; protected with a 90V protection device.

General Specifications

Warm-up Time Four minutes, after connections to the 5500A and DMM have been made.
Standard Interfaces RS-232
Temperature Performance Operating: 15 °C to 30 °C

Storage: -20 °C to 70 °C [1]

Electromagnetic
Compatibility

Relative Humidity Operating: <70% to 30 °C (<60% for 4-wire ohms >= 10 MΩ)

Altitude Operating: 3,050m (10,000 ft) maximum

Safety Designed to comply with IEC 1010-1 (1992-1); ANSI/ISA-S82.01-1994;

EMI/RFI Designed to comply with FCC Rules Part 15; VFG 243/1991
Power Consumption <10W
Dimensions Switch module:

1. If the Switch Accessory is stored at temperature and humidity outside the specified operating range,

you must leave it in a environment within the operating range for as long as it was stored outside the
operating range.

Designed to operate in standard laboratory environments where the
electromagnetic environment is highly controlled. If used in areas with
electromagnetic fields >1 V/m, and <3V/m, add 40 µV to the V dc
uncertainty, and 500 mΩ to the ohms uncertainty. Performance not
specified in fields >3 V/m.

Storage: <95%, noncondensing [1]

Nonoperating: 12,200m (40,000 ft) maximum

1000V CATI CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.1-92

12.7 cm H x 23.2 cm W x 4.6 cm D

(5” x 9.1” x 1.8”)
Leads:

16.4 cm (6.4”) Calibrator

41.3 cm (16.2”) UUT

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28