Keithley Keithley Instruments 2010 Manual

A GREATER MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE

Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431 - 99 Washington Street Melrose, MA 02176 - TestEquipmentDepot.com

Model 2010 Multimeter

User’s Manual

WARRANTY

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of 3 years from date of shipment.

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment: probes, cables,
rechargeable batteries, diskettes, and documentation.

During the warranty period, we will, at our option, either repair or replace any product that proves to be defective.

To exercise this warranty, write or call your local Keithley representative, or contact Keithley headquarters in
Cleveland, Ohio. You will be given prompt assistance and return instructions. Send the product, transportation
prepaid, to the indicated service facility. Repairs will be made and the product returned, transportation prepaid.
Repaired or replaced products are warranted for the balance of the original warranty period, or at least 90 days.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification without Keithley’s express written
consent, or misuse of any product or part. This warranty also does not apply to fuses, software, non-rechargeable
batteries, damage from battery leakage, or problems arising from normal wear or failure to follow instructions.

THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE. THE
REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.

NEITHER KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES SHALL BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT
OF THE USE OF ITS INSTRUMENTS AND SOFTWARE EVEN IF KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC., HAS
BEEN ADVISED IN ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SUCH EXCLUDED
DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COSTS OF REMOVAL AND
INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF INJURY TO ANY PERSON, OR DAMAGE
TO PROPERTY.

Keithley Instruments, Inc. 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139 • 440-248-0400 • Fax: [phone]

Sales Offices: BELGIUM: Bergensesteenweg 709 • B-1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw • 02-363 00 40 • Fax: [phone]

CHINA: Yuan Chen Xin Building, Room 705 • 12 Yumin Road, Dewai, Madian • Beijing 100029 • 8610-82251886 • Fax: [phone]
FINLAND: Halsuantie 2 • 00420 Helsinki, Finland • 09-53 06 65 60 • Fax: [phone]
FRANCE: 3, allée des Garays • 91127 Palaiseau Cédex • 01-64 53 20 20 • Fax: [phone]
GERMANY: Landsberger Strasse 65 • 82110 Germering • 089-84 93 07-40 • Fax: [phone]
GREAT BRITAIN: Unit 2 Commerce Park, Brunel Road • Theale, Berkshire RG7 4AB • 0118 -929 75 00 • Fax: [phone]
INDIA: 1/5, Eagles Street • Langford Town • Bangalore 560 025 • 080 212 80-27 • Fax: [phone]
ITALY: Viale San Gimignano, 38 • 20146 Milano • 02-48 39 16 01 • Fax: [phone]
JAPAN: New Pier Takeshiba North Tower 13F • 11-1, Kaigan 1-chome • Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0022 • 81-3-5733-7555 • Fax: [phone]
KOREA: 2FL., URI Building • 2-14 Yangjae-Dong • Seocho-Gu, Seoul 137-888 • 82-2-574-7778 • Fax: [phone]
NETHERLANDS: Postbus 559 • 4200 AN Gorinchem • 0183-63 53 33 • Fax: [phone]
SWEDEN: c/o Regus Business Centre • Frosundaviks Allé 15, 4tr • 16970 Solna • 08-50 90 46 00 • Fax: [phone]
TAIWAN: 13F-3, NO. 6, Lane 99, Pu-Ding Road, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC. • 886-3-572-9077• Fax: [phone]

5/03

Model 2010 Multimeter

User’s Manual

©1996, Keithley Instruments, Inc.

All rights reserved.

Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

Fifth Printing, August 2003

Document Number: 2010-900-01 Rev. E

Manual Print History

The print history shown below lists the printing dates of all Revisions and Addenda created
for this manual. The Revision Level letter increases alphabetically as the manual undergoes
subsequent updates. Addenda, which are released between Revisions, contain important change
information that the user should incorporate immediately into the manual. Addenda are
numbered sequentially. When a new Revision is created, all Addenda associated with the
previous Revision of the manual are incorporated into the new Revision of the manual. Each new
Revision includes a revised copy of this print history page.

Revision A (Document Number 2010-900-01)............................................................ January 1996

Revision B (Document Number 2010-900-01) .......................................................... February 1996

Addendum B (Document Number 2010-900-02).................................................... September 1996

Revision C (Document Number 2010-900-01) ................................................................. June 1998

Revision D (Document Number 2010-900-01)................................................................ April 1999

Revision E (Document Number 2010-900-01) .............................................................August 2003

All Keithley product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

S

afety Precautions

The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. Although
some instruments and accessories would normally be used with non-hazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous
conditions may be present.

This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions
required to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before
using the product. Refer to the manual for complete product specifications

If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection pr vided by the product may be impaired.

The types of product users are:

Responsible body

ment is operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained

Operators

instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.

Maintenance personnel

voltage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the manual. The procedures explicitly state
if the operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.

Service personnel

trained service personnel may perform installation and service procedures.

Keithley products are designed for use with electrical signals that are rated Measurement Category I and Measurement Category
II, as described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664. Most measurement, control, and
data I/O signals are Measurement Category I and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with
high transient over-voltages. Measurement Category II connections require protection for high transient over-voltages often
associated with local AC mains connections. Assume all measurement, control, and data I/O connections are for connection to
Category I sources unless otherwise marked or described in the Manual.

Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test fixture .
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30V RMS,

42.4V peak, or 60VDC are present.

circuit before measuring.

Operators of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible body must ensure that operators
are prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential
human contact. Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of electric shock.
If the circuit is capable of operating at or above 1000 volts,

Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended to be used with impedance limited
sources. NEVER connect switching cards directly to AC mains. When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective
devices to limit fault current and voltage to the card.

Before operating an instrument, make sure the line cord is connected to a properly grounded power receptacle. Inspect the
connecting cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.

When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main input
power disconnect device must be provided, in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.

is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that the equip-

use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of the

perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting the line

are trained to work on live circuits, and perform safe installations and repairs of products. Only properly

A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any unknown

no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.

5/03

For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the circuit under
test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting
cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or removing jumpers.

Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth) ground.
Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage being
measured.

The instrument and accessories must be used in accordance with its specifications and operating instructions or the safety of the
equipment may be impaired.

Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories, as defined in the specifications and operating
information, and as shown on the instrument or test fixture panels, or switching card

When fuses are used in a product, replace with same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard

Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as safety earth ground connections.

If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires the use
of a lid interlock.

If a screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire recommended in the user documentation.

!

The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the manual.

The symbol on an instrument shows that it can source or measure 1000 volts or more, including the combined effect of
normal and common mode voltages. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.

The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.

The

WARNING

information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.

The

CAUTION

warranty.

Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.

Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.

To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains circuits, including the power transformer,
test leads, and input jacks, must be purchased from Keithley Instruments. Standard fuses, with applicable national safety
approvals, may be used if the rating and type are the same. Other components that are not safety related may be purchased from
other suppliers as long as they are equivalent to the original component. (Note that selected parts should be purchased only
through Keithley Instruments to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product.) If you are unsure about the applicability
of a replacement component, call a Keithley Instruments office for information

To clean an instrument, use a damp cloth or mild, water based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply
cleaner directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist of a circuit board with
no case or chassis (e.g., data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never require cleaning if handled accord­ing to instructions. If the board becomes contaminated and operation is affected, the board should be returned to the factory for
proper cleaning/servicing.

heading in a manual explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the associated

heading in a manual explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the

Table of Contents

1 General Information

Introduction ................................................................................ 1-2

Feature overview ........................................................................ 1-2

Warranty information ................................................................. 1-3

Manual addenda ......................................................................... 1-3

Safety symbols and terms .......................................................... 1-3

Specifications ............................................................................. 1-3

Inspection ................................................................................... 1-4

Options and accessories ............................................................. 1-4

Scanner cards ...................................................................... 1-4

General purpose probes ....................................................... 1-4

Low thermal probes ............................................................ 1-5

Cables and adapters ............................................................. 1-5

Rack mount kits .................................................................. 1-6

Carrying case ...................................................................... 1-6

2 Basic Measurements

Introduction ................................................................................ 2-2

Front panel summary ................................................................. 2-3

Rear panel summary ................................................................... 2-6

Power-up .................................................................................... 2-8

Line power connection ........................................................ 2-8

Setting line voltage and replacing fuse ............................... 2-9

Power-up sequence ........................................................... 2-10

High energy circuit safety precautions ............................. 2-11

Power-on defaults ............................................................. 2-12

GPIB primary address ....................................................... 2-15

Warm-up time ................................................................... 2-15

Display ..................................................................................... 2-16

Status and error messages ................................................. 2-16

Measuring voltage .................................................................... 2-16

Connections ....................................................................... 2-16

Crest factor ........................................................................ 2-17

Low level considerations .................................................. 2-17

Ratio ......................................................................................... 2-20

Connections ....................................................................... 2-20

Measuring voltage with the SENSE terminals .................. 2-21

Using ratio with the relative function ............................... 2-21

Measuring current ..................................................................... 2-22

Connections ....................................................................... 2-22

AMPS fuse replacement .................................................... 2-23

Measuring resistance ................................................................ 2-24

Connections ....................................................................... 2-24

Shielding ............................................................................ 2-25

Low resistance measurements ........................................... 2-25

Measuring frequency and period .............................................. 2-28

Trigger level ...................................................................... 2-28

Gate time ........................................................................... 2-28

Connections ....................................................................... 2-29

Measuring temperature ............................................................. 2-30

Connections ....................................................................... 2-31

Configuration .................................................................... 2-32

Math .......................................................................................... 2-32

mX + b ............................................................................... 2-33

Percent ............................................................................... 2-34

dBm calculation ................................................................. 2-34

dB calculation .................................................................... 2-35

Measuring continuity ................................................................ 2-36

Connections ....................................................................... 2-36

Threshold resistance level ................................................. 2-36

Testing diodes ........................................................................... 2-37

Connections ....................................................................... 2-37

Range ................................................................................. 2-37

3 Measurement Options

Introduction ................................................................................ 3-2

Measurement configuration ........................................................ 3-2

Range ................................................................................... 3-2

Filter .................................................................................... 3-3

Relative ................................................................................ 3-5

Digits ................................................................................... 3-5

Rate ...................................................................................... 3-6

Trigger operations ...................................................................... 3-8

Trigger model ...................................................................... 3-8

Reading hold (autosettle) .................................................. 3-10

External triggering ............................................................. 3-11

Buffer operations ...................................................................... 3-16

Storing readings ................................................................. 3-16

Recalling readings ............................................................. 3-16

Buffer statistics .................................................................. 3-17

Limit operations ....................................................................... 3-18

Setting limit values ........................................................... 3-18

Enabling limits .................................................................. 3-19

Scan operations ........................................................................ 3-20

Scanning overview ............................................................ 3-20

Front panel scanner controls ............................................. 3-20

Using the  and  keys .................................................... 3-21

Using OPEN and CLOSE keys ......................................... 3-21

Stepping and scanning trigger model additions ................ 3-22

Using SHIFT-CONFIG to configure stepping

and scanning ................................................................ 3-23

Scanning examples ............................................................ 3-24

System operations .................................................................... 3-30

Self-test ............................................................................. 3-30

Calibration ......................................................................... 3-30

4 Remote Operation

Introduction ................................................................................ 4-2

Selecting an interface ................................................................. 4-2

RS-232 ................................................................................ 4-2

GPIB bus ............................................................................. 4-3

Selecting a language ................................................................... 4-3

SCPI .................................................................................... 4-4

Keithley Models 196/199 Digital Multimeter ..................... 4-4

RS-232 operation ....................................................................... 4-5

Sending and receiving data ................................................. 4-5

Selecting baud rate .............................................................. 4-5

Selecting signal handshaking (flow control) ....................... 4-6

Setting terminator ................................................................ 4-6

RS-232 connections ............................................................ 4-7

Error messages .................................................................... 4-7

GPIB bus operation and reference ............................................. 4-8

Introduction ......................................................................... 4-8

GPIB bus standards ............................................................. 4-8

GPIB bus connections ......................................................... 4-8

Selecting the primary address ........................................... 4-10

QuickBASIC 4.5 programming ........................................ 4-10

General Bus Commands ................................................... 4-12

Front panel GPIB operation .............................................. 4-15

Status structure ......................................................................... 4-16

Condition registers ............................................................ 4-17

Event registers ................................................................... 4-17

Enable registers ................................................................. 4-17

Queues ............................................................................... 4-20

Status Byte and Service Request (SRQ) ........................... 4-21

Trigger model (GPIB operation) .............................................. 4-24

Idle and initiate .................................................................. 4-25

Trigger model operation .................................................... 4-25

Programming syntax ................................................................. 4-27

Command words ............................................................... 4-27

Query commands ............................................................... 4-29

Case sensitivity .................................................................. 4-29

Long-form and short-form versions .................................. 4-29

Short-form rules ................................................................ 4-30

Program messages ............................................................. 4-30

Response messages ........................................................... 4-33

Message exchange protocol .............................................. 4-33

Common commands ................................................................. 4-34

*CLS — Clear Status ........................................................ 4-34

*ESE <NRf> — Event Enable .......................................... 4-35

*ESE? — Event Enable Query .......................................... 4-35

*ESR? — Event Status Register Query ............................ 4-36

*IDN? — Identification Query ......................................... 4-38

*OPC — Operation Complete ........................................... 4-38

*OPC? — Operation Complete Query .............................. 4-40

*OPT? — Option Identification Query ............................. 4-41

*RCL — Recall ................................................................. 4-41

*RST — RESET ............................................................... 4-42

*SAV — Save ................................................................... 4-42

*SRE <NRf> — Service Request Enable ......................... 4-42

*SRE? — Service Request Enable Query ......................... 4-42

*STB? — Status Byte Query ............................................ 4-44

*TRG — Trigger ............................................................... 4-45

*TST?-Self-Test Query ..................................................... 4-45

*WAI — Wait-to-Continue ............................................... 4-46

5 SCPI Command Reference

SCPI signal oriented measurement commands .......................... 5-2

CONFigure Command ........................................................ 5-2

FETCh? command ............................................................... 5-3

READ? command ............................................................... 5-4

MEASure command ............................................................ 5-5

SCPI command subsystems reference tables ............................. 5-6

Calculate subsystem ................................................................. 5-20

:CALCulate[1] .................................................................. 5-20

:CALCulate2 ..................................................................... 5-22

:CALCulate3 ..................................................................... 5-24

DISPlay subsystem .................................................................. 5-26

:FORMat subsystem ................................................................. 5-28

:DATA command .............................................................. 5-28

:BORDer command .......................................................... 5-30

:ELEMents command ....................................................... 5-31

ROUTe subsystem ................................................................... 5-32

:SCAN commands ............................................................ 5-35

[SENSe[1]] subsystem ............................................................. 5-37

:FUNCtion Command ....................................................... 5-37

:DATA command .............................................................. 5-38

:HOLD Command ............................................................. 5-39

Speed Commands .............................................................. 5-40

:RANGe commands .......................................................... 5-41

:REFerence <n> commands .............................................. 5-43

:DCIRcuit command ......................................................... 5-45

:OCOMpensated command ............................................... 5-45

:DIGits command .............................................................. 5-46

:AVERage commands ....................................................... 5-47

Bandwidth command ........................................................ 5-48

:THReshold commands ..................................................... 5-49

:TRANsducer commands .................................................. 5-49

Thermocouple commands ................................................. 5-50

FRTD commands .............................................................. 5-52

:DIODe command ............................................................. 5-53

:CONTinuity command .................................................... 5-54

STATus subsystem .................................................................. 5-54

[:EVENt]? command ........................................................ 5-54

:ENABle command ........................................................... 5-58

:CONDition? command .................................................... 5-60

:PRESet command ............................................................ 5-60

:QUEue commands ........................................................... 5-61

:SYSTem subsystem ................................................................ 5-64

:BEEPer command ............................................................ 5-64

:PRESet command ............................................................ 5-64

:KCLick command ............................................................ 5-64

:POSetup <name> command ............................................ 5-65

:VERSion? command ........................................................ 5-65

:ERRor? command ............................................................ 5-66

:AZERo commands ........................................................... 5-67

:CLEar command .............................................................. 5-67

:KEY <NRf> command .................................................... 5-68

RS-232 interface commands ............................................. 5-70

Line frequency query ........................................................ 5-70

:TRACe subsystem ................................................................... 5-71

:CLEar command .............................................................. 5-71

:FREE? command ............................................................. 5-71

:POINts command ............................................................. 5-71

:FEED command ............................................................... 5-72

:DATA? command ............................................................ 5-72

Trigger subsystem .................................................................... 5-73

:INITiate commands .......................................................... 5-73

:ABORt command ............................................................. 5-73

:TRIGger commands ......................................................... 5-74

:UNIT subsystem ...................................................................... 5-76

:TEMPerature command ................................................... 5-76

:VOLTage commands ....................................................... 5-77

A Specifications

Accuracy calculations ................................................................ A-8

Calculating DC characteristics accuracy ............................ A-8

Calculating AC characteristics accuracy ............................ A-8

Calculating dBm characteristics accuracy .......................... A-9

Calculating dB characteristics accuracy ........................... A-10

Additional derating factors ............................................... A-10

Optimizing measurement accuracy ......................................... A-11

Optimizing measurement speed .............................................. A-11

B Status and Error Messages

C Example Programs

Program examples ..................................................................... C-2

Changing function and range ............................................. C-2

One-shot triggering ............................................................ C-4

Generating SRQ on buffer full ........................................... C-5

Storing readings in buffer ................................................... C-6

Taking readings with the scanner card ............................... C-8

Taking readings using the :READ? command ................. C-12

Controlling the Model 2010 via the RS-232 COM2 port . C-12

D Models 196/199 Commands

E IEEE-488 Bus Overview

Introduction ................................................................................ E-2

Bus description ........................................................................... E-2

Bus lines ..................................................................................... E-4

Data lines ............................................................................ E-4

Bus management lines ........................................................ E-4

Handshake lines .................................................................. E-5

Bus commands ........................................................................... E-6

Uniline commands .............................................................. E-7

Universal multiline commands ........................................... E-7

Addressed multiline commands .......................................... E-8

Address commands ............................................................. E-8

Unaddress commands ......................................................... E-8

Common commands ........................................................... E-9

SCPI commands .................................................................. E-9

Command codes .................................................................. E-9

Typical command sequences ............................................ E-11

IEEE command groups ..................................................... E-12

Interface function codes ........................................................... E-13

F IEEE-488 and SCPI Conformance Information

Introduction ................................................................................ F-2

List of Illustrations

2 Basic Measurements

Figure 2-1 Model 2010 front panel .......................................................... 2-3

Figure 2-2 Model 2010 rear panel ........................................................... 2-6

Figure 2-3 Power module ........................................................................ 2-8

Figure 2-4 DC and AC voltage measurements ...................................... 2-17

Figure 2-5 DC and AC current measurements ...................................... 2-22

Figure 2-6 Two- and four-wire resistance measurements ..................... 2-25

Figure 2-7 Offset-compensated ohms measurement ............................. 2-27

Figure 2-8 Frequency and period measurements ................................... 2-29

Figure 2-9 Thermocouple and RTD temperature measurements .......... 2-31

Figure 2-10 Continuity measurements .................................................... 2-36

Figure 2-11 Diode testing ........................................................................ 2-37

3 Measurement Options

Figure 3-1 Moving average and repeating filters .................................... 3-4

Figure 3-2 Front panel triggering without stepping/scanning ................. 3-8

Figure 3-3 Rear panel pinout ................................................................. 3-11

Figure 3-4 Trigger link input pulse specifications (EXT TRIG) ........... 3-12

Figure 3-5 Trigger link output pulse specifications (VMC) .................. 3-12

Figure 3-6 DUT test system .................................................................. 3-13

Figure 3-7 Trigger link connections ...................................................... 3-13

Figure 3-8 Operation model for triggering example ............................. 3-14

Figure 3-9 DIN to BNC trigger cable .................................................... 3-15

Figure 3-10 Buffer locations .................................................................... 3-17

Figure 3-11 Using limits test to sort 100Ω, 10% resistors ...................... 3-19

Figure 3-12 Front panel triggering with stepping .................................... 3-22

Figure 3-13 Front panel triggering with scanning ................................... 3-23

Figure 3-14 Internal scanning example with reading count option ......... 3-24

Figure 3-15 Internal scanning example with timer and delay options .... 3-27

Figure 3-16 External scanning example with Model 7001 ...................... 3-29

4 Remote Operation

Figure 4-1 RS-232 interface connector ................................................... 4-7

Figure 4-2 IEEE-488 connector ............................................................... 4-8

Figure 4-3 IEEE-488 connections ........................................................... 4-9

Figure 4-4 IEEE-488 connector location ................................................. 4-9

Figure 4-5 Model 2010 status register structure .................................... 4-16

Figure 4-6 Standard event status ............................................................ 4-18

Figure 4-7 Operation event status .......................................................... 4-18

Figure 4-8 Measurement event status .................................................... 4-19

Figure 4-9 Questionable event status ..................................................... 4-19

Figure 4-10 Status byte and service request (SRQ) ................................. 4-21

Figure 4-11 Trigger model (remote operation) ........................................ 4-24

Figure 4-12 Device action (trigger model) .............................................. 4-26

Figure 4-13 Standard event enable register ............................................. 4-36

Figure 4-14 Standard event status register ............................................... 4-37

Figure 4-15 Service request enable register ............................................. 4-43

Figure 4-16 Status byte register ............................................................... 4-45

5 SCPI Command Reference

Figure 5-1 ASCII data format ................................................................ 5-28

Figure 5-2 IEEE754 single precision data format (32 data bits) ........... 5-29

Figure 5-3 IEEE754 double precision data format (64 data bits) .......... 5-29

Figure 5-4 Measurement event register ................................................. 5-55

Figure 5-5 Questionable event register .................................................. 5-56

Figure 5-6 Operation event register ....................................................... 5-57

Figure 5-7 Measurement event enable register ...................................... 5-59

Figure 5-8 Questionable event enable register ....................................... 5-59

Figure 5-9 Operation event enable register ............................................ 5-59

Figure 5-10 Key-press codes ................................................................... 5-69

E IEEE-488 Bus Overview

Figure E-1 IEEE-488 bus configuration .................................................. E-3

Figure E-2 IEEE-488 handshake sequence ............................................. E-5

Figure E-3 Command codes .................................................................. E-10

List of Tables

2 Basic Measurements

Table 2-1 Fuse ratings ............................................................................ 2-9

Table 2-2 Factory defaults .................................................................... 2-13

3 Measurement Options

Table 3-1 Rate settings for the measurement functions ......................... 3-7

Table 3-2 Auto delay settings ................................................................ 3-9

Table 3-3 Bus commands parameters for stepping and

4 Remote Operation

Table 4-1 Language support ................................................................... 4-3

Table 4-2 RS-232 connector pinout ....................................................... 4-7

Table 4-3 General bus commands and associated statements .............. 4-12

Table 4-4 IEEE-488.2 common commands and queries ...................... 4-34

5 SCPI Command Reference

Table 5-1 Signal oriented measurement command summary ................ 5-2

Table 5-2 CALCulate command summary ............................................ 5-7

Table 5-3 DISPlay command summary ................................................. 5-8

Table 5-4 FORMat command summary ................................................. 5-9

Table 5-5 ROUTe command summary .................................................. 5-9

Table 5-6 SENSe command summary ................................................. 5-10

Table 5-7 STATus command summary ............................................... 5-17

Table 5-8 SYSTem command summary .............................................. 5-18

Table 5-9 TRACe command summary ................................................ 5-18

Table 5-10 Trigger command summary ................................................. 5-19

Table 5-11 UNIT command summary ................................................... 5-20

scanning counters ........................................................... 3-25

B Status and Error Messages

Table B-1 Status and error messages ..................................................... B-2

D Models 196/199 Commands

Table D-1 Models 196/199 device-dependent command summary ....... D-2

Table D-2 Range selection for ohms function ....................................... D-6

E IEEE-488 Bus Overview

Table E-1 IEEE-488 bus command summary ........................................ E-6

Table E-2 Hexadecimal and decimal command codes .......................... E-9

Table E-3 Typical addressed command sequence ................................ E-11

Table E-4 Typical addressed command sequence ................................ E-11

Table E-5 IEEE command groups ....................................................... E-12

Table E-6 Model 2010 interface function codes .................................. E-13

F IEEE-488 and SCPI Conformance Information

Table F-1 IEEE-488 documentation requirements ................................ F-2

Table F-2 Coupled commands ............................................................... F-3

1

General Infor-

mation

1

General

Information

1-2 General Information

Introduction

This section contains general information about the Model 2010 Multimeter. The information

is organized as follows:

• Feature overview

• Warranty information

• Manual addenda

• Safety symbols and terms

• Specification

• Inspection

• Options and accessories

If you have any questions after reviewing this information, please contact your local
Keithley representative or call one of our Applications Engineers at 1-800-348-3735
(U.S. and Canada only). Worldwide phone numbers are listed at the front of this manual.

Feature overview

The Model 2010 is a 7½-digit high-performance digital multimeter. It has 0.0018% 90-day
basic DC voltage accuracy and 0.0032% 90-day basic resistance accuracy. At 6
multimeter delivers 50 triggered readings/sec over the IEEE-488 bus. At 4
up to 2000 readings/sec into its internal buffer. The Model 2010 has broad measurement ranges:

½

digits, the

½

digits, it can read

• DC voltage from 10nV to 1000V.

• AC (RMS) voltage from 0.1

• DC current from 10nA to 3A.

• AC (RMS) current from 1

• Two and four-wire resistance from 1µ

• Frequency from 3Hz to 500kHz.

• Thermocouple temperature from -200°C to +1372°C.

• RTD temperature from -200°C to +630°C.

Some additional capabilities of the Model 2010 are:

• Full range of functions — In addition to those listed above, the Model 2010 functions
include period, dB, dBm, continuity, diode testing, mX+b, and percent.

• Optional scanning — For internal scanning, options include the Model 2000-SCAN, a
10-channel, general-purpose card, and the Model 2001-TCSCAN, a 9-channel,
thermocouple card with a built-in cold junction. For external scanning, the Model 2010
is compatible with Keithley's Model 7001 and 7002 switch matrices and cards.

• Programming languages and remote interfaces — The Model 2010 offers two
programming language choices (SCPI and Keithley Models 196/199), and two remote
interface ports (IEEE-488/GPIB and RS-232C).

• Reading and setup storage — Up to 1024 readings and two setups (user and factory
defaults) can be stored and recalled.

• Closed-cover calibration — The instrument can be calibrated either from the front panel
or remote interface.

µ

V to 750V, 1000V peak.

µ

A to 3A.

Ω

to 120MΩ.

Warranty information

Warranty information is located at the front of this instruction manual. Should your
Model 2010 require warranty service, contact the Keithley representative or authorized
repair facility in your area for further information. When returning the instrument for repair,
be sure to fill out and include the service form at the back of this manual to pr vide the
repair facility with the necessary information.

Manual addenda

Any improvements or changes concerning the instrument or manual will be explained in
an addendum included with the manual. Be sure to note these changes and incorporate them
into the manual.

Safety symbols and terms

General Information 1-3

The following symbols and terms may be found on the instrument or used in this manual.

The symbol on the instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating
instructions located in the manual.

The symbol on the instrument shows that high voltage may be present on the terminal(s).
Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.

The

WARNING

injury or death. Always read the associated information very carefully before performing the
indicated procedure.

The
instrument. Such damage may invalidate the warranty.

Specifications

Full Model 2010 specif cations are included in Appendix A.

!

CAUTION

heading used in this manual explains dangers that might result in personal

heading used in this manual explains hazards that could damage the

1-4 General Information

Inspection

The Model 2010 was carefully inspected electrically and mechanically before shipment.
After unpacking all items from the shipping carton, check for any obvious signs of physical
damage that may have occurred during transit. (Note: There may be a protective film ver the
display lens, which can be removed.) Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately.
Save the original packing carton for possible future shipment. The following items are included
with every Model 2010 order:

• Model 2010 Multimeter with line cord.

• Safety test leads (Model 1751).

• Accessories as ordered.

• Certificate of calibration.

• Model 2010 User's Manual (P/N 2010-900-00).

• Model 2010 Service Manual (P/N 2010-902-00).

• Model 2010 Support Software Disk including TestPoint run-time applications, TestPoint
instrument libraries for GPIB and RS-232, and QuickBASIC examples.

If an additional manual is required, order the appropriate manual package. The manual

packages include a manual and any pertinent addenda.

Options and accessories

The following options and accessories are available from Keithley for use with the

Model 2010.

Scanner cards

Model 2000-SCAN —

Model 2010. Channels can be conf gured for two-pole or four-pole operation. Included are two
pairs of leads for connection to Model 2010 rear panel inputs (Keithley P/N CA-109).

Model 2001-TCSCAN —

Model 2010. The card has nine analog input channels that can be used for high-accuracy, high­speed scanning. A built-in temperature reference allows multi-channel, cold-junction
compensated temperature measurements using thermocouples.

General purpose probes

Model 1754 Universal Test Lead Kit

lugs, two banana plugs, two hooks, and two alligator clips.

Model 8605 High Performance Modular Test Leads

(1000V) test probes and leads. The test leads are terminated with a banana plug with a
retractable sheath on each end.

A ten-channel scanner card that installs in the option slot of the

A thermocouple scanner card that installs in the option slot of the

— Consists of one set of test leads (0.9m), two spade

— Consists of two high voltage

General Information 1-5

Model 8606 High Performance Probe Tip Kit

clips, and two spring hook test probes. (The spade lugs and alligator clips are rated at 30V RMS,

42.4V peak; the test probes are rated at 1000V.) These components are for use with high
performance test leads terminated with banana plugs, such as the Model 8605.

The following test leads and probes are rated at 30V RMS, 42.4V peak:

Models 5805 and 5805-12 Kelvin Probes —

probes with banana plug termination. Designed for instruments that measure four-terminal
resistance. The Model 5805 is 0.9m long; the Model 5805-12 is 3.6m long.

Model 5806 Kelvin Clip Lead Set —

plug termination. Designed for instruments that measure four-terminal resistance. A set of eight
replacement rubber bands is available (Keithley P/N GA-22).

Model 8604 SMD Probe Set —

surface mount device “grabber” clip on one end and a banana plug with a retractable sheath on
the other end.

Low thermal probes

Model 8610 Low Thermal Shorting Plug —

1-inch square circuit board, interconnected to provide a short circuit among all plugs.

Cables and adapters

Models 7007-1 and 7007-2 Shielded GPIB Cables —

bus using shielded cables and connectors to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). The
Model 7007-1 is 1m long; the Model 7007-2 is 2m long.

— Consists of two spade lugs, two alligator

Consists of two spring-loaded Kelvin test

Includes two Kelvin clip test leads (0.9m) with banana

Consists of two test leads (0.9m), each terminated with a

Consists of four banana plugs mounted to a

Connect the Model 2010 to the GPIB

Models 8501-1 and 8501-2 Trigger Link Cables —

instruments with Trigger Link connectors (e.g., Model 7001 Switch System). The Model 8501-1
is 1m long; the Model 8501-2 is 2m long.

Model 8502 Trigger Link Adapter —

the Model 2010 to instruments that use the standard BNC trigger connectors.

Model 8503 DIN to BNC Trigger Cable —

(Voltmeter Complete) and two (External Trigger) of the Model 2010 to instruments that use
BNC trigger connectors. The Model 8503 is 1m long.

Lets you connect any of the six Trigger Link lines of

Connect the Model 2010 to other

Lets you connect Trigger Link lines one

1-6 General Information

Rack mount kits

Model 4288-1 Single Fixed Rack Mount Kit —

19-inch rack.

Model 4288-2 Side-by-Side Rack Mount Kit —

486, 487, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2010, 6517, 7001) side-by-side in a standard 19-inch rack.

Model 4288-3 Side-by-Side Rack Mount Kit —

side-by-side in a standard 19-inch rack.

Model 4288-4 Side-by-Side Rack Mount Kit —

instrument (Models 195A, 196, 220, 224, 230, 263, 595, 614, 617, 705, 740, 775, etc.)
side-by-side in a standard 19-inch rack.

Carrying case

Model 1050 Padded Carrying Case —

and shoulder strap.

Mounts a single Model 2010 in a standard

Mounts two instruments (Models 182, 428,

Mounts a Model 2010 and a Model 199

Mounts a Model 2010 and a 5.25-inch

A carrying case for a Model 2010. Includes handles

2

Basic Mea-

surements

2

Basic

Measurements

2-2 Basic Measurements

Introduction

This section summarizes front panel operation of the Model 2010. It is organized as follows:

•

Front panel summary —

connections.

•

Rear panel summary —

•

Power-up —

the warm-up time, and default conditions.

•

Display —

instrument.

•

Measuring voltage —

level voltage considerations.

•

Ratio

with the SENSE terminals.

•

Measuring current —

fuse replacement.

•

Measuring resistance —

shielding considerations, dry circuit measurement, and offset compensation.

•

Measuring frequency and period —

connections.

•

Measuring temperature —

temperature measurements.

•

Math —

readings.

•

Measuring continuity —

•

Testing diodes —

Includes an illustration and summarizes keys, display, and

Includes an illustration and summarizes connections.

Describes connecting the instrument to line power, the power-up sequence,

Discusses the display format and messages that may appear while using the

Covers DC and AC voltage measurement connections and low

— Details ratio function connections for DC voltages and voltage measurement

Covers DC and AC current measurement connections and current

Details two and four-wire measurement connections,

Covers frequency and period measurement

Describes the use of thermocouples and four-wire RTDs for

Covers the mX+b, percent, dBm, and dB math functions performed on single

Explains setting up and measuring continuity of a circuit.

Describes testing general-purpose and zener diodes.

Front panel summary

Fi

1

M
p

The front panel of the Model 2010 is shown in Figure 2-1. This figure includes important

abbreviated information that should be reviewed before operating the instrument.

Basic Measurements 2-3

gure 2-

odel 2010 front

anel

5

1

3

SHIFT

LOCAL

POWER

1 Function keys

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8 CH9 CH10

CH1REM

SCAN

TALK
LSTN
SRQ

SHIFT
TIMER

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

%

MX+B

DCV

ACV

HOLD

EX TRIG

TRIG

SAVE SETUP

OPEN CLOSE

dBm

DCI

LIMITS ON/OFFDELAY

STORE

RECALL

CONFIG HALT

STEP SCAN

REL FILT

dB

ACI

CONT

Ω2 Ω4

TYPE

RATIO

RELFILTER

RS232

GPIB

DIGITS RATE

2

(shifted and unshifted)

BUFFER

STAT

PERIOD SENSOR

FREQ

DRYCKT O COMP

CAL TEST

EXIT ENTER

8

MATH
REAR

4W

2010 MULTIMETER

TEMP

RANGE

AUTO

RANGE

SENSE

INPUT

Ω 4 WIRE

HI

350V

PEAK

INPUTS

F

FRONT/REAR

4

7

1000V

!

PEAK

LO

500V
PEAK

R

3A 250V

AMPS

6

Select measurement function (DC and AC voltage, DC and AC current, two-wire and
four-wire resistance, frequency, period, temperature with thermocouples or four-wire RTDs),
math function (mX+b, %, dBm, dB), or special function (continuity, diode test).

2 Operation keys

EXTRIG Selects external triggers (front panel, bus, trigger link) as the trigger source.
TRIG Triggers a measurement from the front panel.
STORE Enables reading storage.
RECALL Displays stored readings and buffer statistics (maximum, minimum, average,

standard deviation). Use ▲ and ▼ to scroll through buffer; use and to

toggle between reading number and reading.

FILTER Displays digital filter status for present function and toggles filter on/ f.
REL Enables/disables relative reading on present function.

and Moves through selections within functions and operations. If scanner card

installed, manually scans channels.

OPEN Opens all channels on internal scanner card; stops scanning.
CLOSE Closes selected internal channel.
STEP Steps through channels; sends a trigger after each channel.
SCAN Scans through channels; sends a trigger after last channel.
DIGITS Changes number of digits of resolution.
RATE Changes reading rate: fast, medium, slow.
EXIT Cancels selection, moves back to measurement display.
ENTER Accepts selection, moves to next choice or back to measurement display.
SHIFT Used to access shifted keys.
LOCAL Cancels GPIB remote mode.

2-4 Basic Measurements

3 Shifted operation keys

mX+B Manipulates normal display readings(X) using the equation Y=mX+b.
dBm Converts a value to the decibels above or below a 1mW reference.
dB Compresses a large range of DC or AC voltage measurements into a much

CONT Measures circuit continuity on the 1kΩ range.

SENSOR Chooses temperature sensor (thermocouple or four-wire RTD).
PERCENT Selects the percentage calculations and lets you specify a reference value.
PERIOD Makes period measurements from 2µs to 333ms on voltage ranges of 100mV,

LOCAL Brings into remote mode for front panel control.
DELAY Sets user delay between trigger and measurement.
HOLD Holds reading when the selected number of samples is within the selected

LIMITS Sets upper and lower limit values for readings.
ON/OFF Enables/disables limits; selects beeper operation for limit testing.
TYPE Selects the number of readings to be taken and the filter type, moving average

RATIO Performs ratio function between sense inputs (denominator) and measure

DRY CKT Enables/disables dry circuit testing.
O COMP Enables/disables offset compensation
SAVE Saves present configuration for p wer-on user default.
SETUP Restores factory or user default configuration
CONFIG Selects minimum/maximum channels, timer, and reading count for step/scan.
HALT Turns off step/scan.
GPIB Enables/disables GPIB interface; selects address and language.
RS232 Enables/disables RS-232 interface; selects baud rate, fl w control, terminator.
TEST Selects display or key test.
CAL Accesses calibration.

4 Range keys

▲ Moves to higher range, increments digit, and moves to next selection.
▼ Moves to lower range, decrements digit, and moves to previous selection.

AUTO Enables/disables autorange.

5 Annunciators

*(asterisk) Reading being stored.
(diode) Instrument is in diode testing function.

)))

(speaker) Beeper on for continuity or limits testing.
(more) Indicates additional selections are available.
4W Four-wire resistance reading displayed.
AUTO Autoranging enabled.
BUFFER Recalling stored readings.
CH 1-10 Displayed internal channel is closed.
ERR Questionable reading; invalid cal step.
FAST Fast reading rate.
FILT Digital filter enabled

smaller scope.

Measures the forward voltage drop of general-purpose diodes, the zener
voltage of zener diodes, and the test current range from the front panel.

1V, 10V, 100V, and 750V

tolerance.

or repeating.

inputs (numerator) for DC volts only.

Basic Measurements 2-5

HOLD Instrument is in hold mode.
LSTN Instrument addressed to listen over GPIB.
MATH Math function (mX+b, %, dB, dBm) enabled.
MED Medium reading rate.
REAR Reading acquired from rear inputs.
REL Relative reading displayed.
REM Instrument is in GPIB remote mode.
SCAN Instrument is in scan mode.
SHIFT Accessing shifted keys.
SLOW Slow reading rate.
SRQ Service request over GPIB.
STAT Displaying buffer statistics.
STEP Instrument is in step mode.
TALK Instrument addressed to talk over GPIB.
TIMER Timed scans in use.
TRIG Indicates external trigger (front panel, bus, trigger link) selected.

6 Input connections

INPUT HI and LO Used for making DC volts, AC volts, two-wire resistance

AMPS Used in conjunction with INPUT LO to make DC current and AC

SENSE Ω4 WIRE Used with INPUT HI and LO to make four-wire resistance measure­HI and LO ments and RATIO measurements in conjunction with INPUT HI and

measurements.

current measurements. Also holds current input fuse (3A, 250V, fast
blow, 5×20mm).

LO.

7 INPUTS

Selects input connections on front or rear panel.

8 Handle

Pull out and rotate to desired position.

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

Fi

2

M
p

2-6 Basic Measurements

Rear panel summary

The rear panel of the Model 2010 is shown in Figure 2-2. This figure includes important

abbreviated information that should be reviewed before operating the instrument.

gure 2-

odel 2010 rear

anel

34 5

2

HI

350V

PEAK

SENSE

Ω 4W

1

!

1000V
PEAK

!

LO

500V
PEAK

INPUT

OPTION SLOT

TRIGGER

LINK

!

3 5

1

VMC

4 6

2

EXT TRIG

FUSE LINE

250mAT

(SB)

125mAT

(SB)

6

8

7

5

2

1

#2

EXTERNAL TRIGGER INPUT

Trigger Reading

TTL HI

>2µsec

TTL LO

VOLTMETER COMPLETE OUTPUT

MADE IN

!

100 VAC
120 VAC

220 VAC
240 VAC

U.S.A.

RS232

120

IEEE-488

(CHANGE IEEE ADDRESS

FROM FRONT PANEL)

LINE RATING

50, 60
400HZ

22 VA MAX

6

#7, #8

34

DIGITAL COMMON

#1

Reading

Complete

>10µsec

TTL HI

TTL LO

Basic Measurements 2-7

1 Option slot

An optional scanner card (Model 2000-SCAN or 2001-TCSCAN) installs in this slot.

2 Input connections

INPUT HI and LO Used for making DC volts, AC volts, two-wire resistance

SENSE Ω4 WIRE Used with INPUT HI and LO to make four-wire resistance measure­HI and LO ments, for connecting scanner card, and RATIO measurements in

measurements, and for connecting scanner card.

conjunction with INPUT HI and LO.

3 TRIGGER LINK

One eight-pin micro-DIN connector for sending and receiving trigger pulses among other
instruments. Use a trigger link cable or adapter, such as Models 8501-1, 8501-2, 8502, 8503.

4 RS-232

Connector for RS-232 operation. Use a straight-through (not null modem) DB-9 shielded
cable.

5 IEEE-488

Connector for IEEE-488 (GPIB) operation. Use a shielded cable, such as Models 7007-1 and
7007-2.

6 Power module

Contains the AC line receptacle, power line fuse, and line voltage setting. The Model 2010
can be configured for line voltages of 100V/120V/220V/240VAC at line frequencies of 45Hz
to 66Hz or 360Hz to 440Hz.

7,8 Digital Common

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

Fi

3

P

2-8 Basic Measurements

Power-up

Line power connection

Follow the procedure below to connect the Model 2010 to line power and turn on the

instrument.

1. Check to be sure the line voltage selected on the rear panel (see Figure 2-3) is correct for
the operating voltage in your area. If not, refer to the next procedure, “Setting line
voltage and replacing fuse.”

CAUTION Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage may cause damage to

2. Before plugging in the power cord, make sure the front panel power switch is in the off
(0) position.

3. Connect the female end of the supplied power cord to the AC receptacle on the rear
panel. Connect the other end of the power cord to a grounded AC outlet.

WARNING The power cord supplied with the Model 2010 contains a separate ground

the instrument, possibly voiding the warranty.

wire for use with grounded outlets. When proper connections are made,
instrument chassis is connected to power line ground through the ground
wire in the power cord. Failure to use a grounded outlet may result in
personal injury or death due to electric shock.

gure 2-

ower module

4. Turn on the instrument by pressing the front panel power switch to the on (1) position.

Model 2010

HI

1000V

350V

PEAK

!

PEAK

LO

500V

3 5

1

PEAK

INPUT

SENSE

Ω 4W

!

4 6

2

TRIGGER

MADE IN

U.S.A.

LINK

RS232

!

VMC
EXT TRIG

!

FUSE LINE

250mAT

100 VAC

(SB)

120 VAC

220 VAC

125mAT

240 VAC

(SB)

IEEE-488

(CHANGE IEEE ADDRESS

FROM FRONT PANEL)

120

LINE RATING

50, 60
400HZ

17 VA MAX

Line Voltage Selector

Fuse

220

240

120

100

Spring

Window

Fuse Holder Assembly

Setting line voltage and replacing fuse

A rear panel fuse located next to the AC receptacle protects the power line input of the
instrument. If the line voltage setting needs to be changed or the line fuse needs to be replaced,
perform the following steps.

WARNING Make sure the instrument is disconnected from the AC line and other

equipment before changing the line voltage setting or replacing the line fuse.

1. Place the tip of a f at-blade screwdriver into the power module by the fuse holder
assembly (see Figure 2-3). Gently push in and move to the left. Release pressure on the
assembly, and its internal spring will push it out of the power module.

2. Remove the fuse, and replace it with the type listed in Table 2-1.

CAUTION For continued protection against fire or instrument damage, only replace

fuse with the type and rating listed. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses,
locate and correct the cause of the trouble before replacing the fuse. See the
Model 2010 Service Manual for troubleshooting information.

3. If configuringthe instrument for a different line voltage, remove the line voltage selector
from the assembly and rotate it to the proper position. When the selector is installed into
the fuse holder assembly, the correct line voltage appears inverted in the window.

4. Install the fuse holder assembly into the power module by pushing it in until it locks in
place.

Basic Measurements 2-9

Table 2-1

Fuse ratings

Line voltage Fuse rating Keithley P/N

100/120V
220/240V

0.25A slow-blow 5×20mm

0.125A slow-blow 5×20mm

FU-96-4
FU-91

2-10 Basic Measurements

Power-up sequence

On power-up, the Model 2010 performs self-tests on its EPROM and RAM and momentarily
lights all segments and annunciators. If a failure is detected, the instrument momentarily
displays an error message and the ERR annunciator turns on. (Error messages are listed in
Appendix B.)

NOTE If a problem develops while the instrument is under warranty, return it to Keithley

If the instrument passes the self-tests, the f rmware revision levels are displayed. An example
of this display is:

REV: A01 A02

where: A01 is the main board ROM revision.

After the power-up sequence, the instrument begins its normal display of readings.

Instruments, Inc., for repair.

A02 is the display board ROM revision.

High energy circuit safety precautions

To optimize safety when measuring voltage in high energy distribution circuits, read and use

the directions in the following warning.

WARNING Dangerous arcs of an explosive nature in a high energy circuit can cause

severe personal injury or death. If the multimeter is connected to a high
energy circuit when set to a current range, low resistance range, or any other
low impedance range, the circuit is virtually shorted. Dangerous arcing can
result even when the multimeter is set to a voltage range if the minimum
voltage spacing is reduced in the external connections.

When making measurements in high energy circuits, use test leads that meet the following

requirements:

• Test leads should be fully insulated.

• Only use test leads that can be connected to the circuit (e.g., alligator clips, spade lugs,
etc.) for hands-off measurements.

• Do not use test leads that decrease voltage spacing. These diminish arc protection and
create a hazardous condition.

Use the following sequence when testing power circuits:

Basic Measurements 2-11

1. De-energize the circuit using the regular installed connect-disconnect device, such as a
circuit breaker, main switch, etc.

2. Attach the test leads to the circuit under test. Use appropriate safety rated test leads for
this application.

3. Set the multimeter to the proper function and range.

4. Energize the circuit using the installed connect-disconnect device and make
measurements without disconnecting the multimeter.

5. De-energize the circuit using the installed connect-disconnect device.

6. Disconnect the test leads from the circuit under test.

WARNING The maximum common-mode voltage (voltage between INPUT LO and the

chassis ground) is 500V peak. Exceeding this value may cause a breakdown
in insulation, creating a shock hazard.

2-12 Basic Measurements

Power-on defaults

Power-on defaults are the settings the instrument assumes when it is turned on. The
Model 2010 offers two choices for the settings: factory and user. The power-on default will be
the last conf guration you saved. The SAVE and SETUP keys select the two choices of power-on
defaults.

To save present conf guration as user settings:

1. Configure the instrument as desired for USER de ault.

2. Press SHIFT then SAVE.

3. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select YES or NO.

4. Press ENTER.

To restore factory or user settings:

1. Press SHIFT then SETUP.

2. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select FACTory or USER.

3. Press ENTER.

Since the basic measurement procedures in this manual assume the factory defaults, reset the
instrument to the factory settings when following step-by-step procedures. Table 2-2 lists the
factory default settings.

Table 2-2

Factory defaults

Setting Factory default

Basic Measurements 2-13

Autozero
Buffer
Continuity

Beeper
Digits
Rate
Threshold

Current (AC and DC)

Digits (AC)
Digits (DC)
Filter

Count

Mode
Range
Relative

Value

Rate (AC)
Rate (DC)

Diode test

Digits
Range
Rate

Frequency and Period

Digits
Range
Relative

Value
Rate

Function
GPIB

Address
Language

Key click
Limits

Beeper
High limit 1
Low limit 1
High limit 2
Low limit 2

mX+b

Scale factor
Offset

On
No effect

On
4½
Fast (0.1 PLC)
10Ω

5½
7½
On
10
Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium*
Medium (1 PLC)

6½
1mA
Medium (1 PLC)

6½
10V
Off

0.0
Slow (1 sec)
DCV
No effect
(16 at factory)
(SCPI at factory)
On
Off
Never
+1

-1
+2

-1
Off

1.0

0.0

2-14 Basic Measurements

Table 2-2 (cont.)

Factory defaults

Setting Factory default

Percent

Reference

Resistance (two-wire and four-wire)

Digits
Filter

Count

Mode
Range
Relative

Value

Rate
Dry circuit
Offset compensation

RS-232

Baud
Flow
Tx term

Scanning

Channels
Mode

Temperature

Digits
Filter

Count

Mode
Junction

Temperature
Relative

Value
Rate

Sensor

Thermocouple
Four-wire RTD
Units

Triggers

Continuous
Delay
Source

Off

1.0

7½
On
10
Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium (1 PLC)
Off
Off
Off
No effect
No effect
No effect
Off
1-10
Internal

5½
On
10
Moving average
Simulated
23°C
Off

0.0
Medium (1 PLC)
Thermocouple
J
PT100
°C

On
Auto
Immediate

Table 2-2 (cont.)

Factory defaults

Setting Factory default

Voltage (AC and DC)

dB reference
dBm reference
Digits (AC)
Digits (DC)
Filter

Count

Mode
Range
Relative

Value
Rate (AC)
Rate (DC)
Ratio (DC)

Sensein

*DETector:BANDwidth 30

No effect
75Ω
5½
7½
On
10
Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium*
Medium (1 PLC)
Off
Off

Basic Measurements 2-15

GPIB primary address

The GPIB primary address of the instrument must be the same as the primary address you
specify in the controller’s programming language. The default primary address of the instrument
is 16, but you can set the address to any value from 0 to 30 by using the following instructions.

1. Press SHIFT then GPIB.

2. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select ADDRess, or press ENTER. Once you have pressed
ENTER, the unit automatically displays the address selection.

3. Use the and keys to toggle from ADDRess to the numeric entry. Notice the
values are blinking.

4. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to change the numeric entries to the desired address.

5. Press ENTER.

See Section Four — Remote Operation for more GPIB information.

Warm-up time

The Model 2010 is ready for use as soon as the power-up sequence has completed. However,
to achieve rated accuracy, allow the instrument to warm up for two hours. If the instrument has
been subjected to extreme temperatures, allow additional time for internal temperatures to
stabilize.

2-16 Basic Measurements

Display

The display of the Model 2010 is primarily used to display readings, along with the units and
type of measurement. Annunciators are located on the top, bottom, right, and left of the reading
or message display. The annunciators indicate various states of operation. See Figure 2-1 for a
complete listing of annunciators.

Status and error messages

Status and error messages are displayed momentarily. During Model 2010 operation and
programming, you will encounter a number of front panel messages. Typical messages are either
of status or error variety, as listed in Appendix B.

Measuring voltage

The Model 2010 can make DCV measurements from 10nV to 1000V and ACV
measurements from 0.1µV to 750V RMS, 1000V peak.

Connections

Assuming factory default conditions, the basic procedure is:

1. Connect test leads to the INPUT HI and LO terminals. Either the front or rear inputs can

2. Select the measurement function by pressing DCV or ACV.

3. Pressing AUTO toggles autoranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed with

4. Connect test leads to the source as shown in Figure 2-4.

WARNING Maximum common mode voltage (voltage between LO and chassis ground) is

CAUTION Do not apply more than 1000V peak to the input or instrument damage may

5. Observe the display. If the “OVERFLOW” message is displayed, select a higher range

6. Take readings from the display.

be used; place the INPUTS button in the appropriate position.

autoranging. If you want manual ranging, use the RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys to select a
measurement range consistent with the expected voltage.

500V peak. Exceeding this value may cause a shock hazard.

occur. The voltage limit is subject to the 8

until an on-scale reading is displayed (or press AUTO for autoranging). Use the lowest
possible range for the best resolution.

×

107V•Hz product.

Fi

4

D

Basic Measurements 2-17

gure 2-

C and AC voltage

measurements

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8 CH9 CH10
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

Input Resistance = 10MΩ on 1000V and 100V ranges;
> 10GΩ on 10V, 1V and 100mV ranges.

Caution: Maximum Input = 1000V peak

Maximum Common Mode = 500V peak.

MATH

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

DC Voltage

Source

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

Input Impedence = 1MΩ in parallel with <100pF.

Caution: Maximum Input = 750V RMS, 1000V peak, 8 x 107 V•Hz

Maximum Common Mode = 500V peak.

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH

REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

AC Voltage

Source

Crest factor

AC voltage and current accuracies are affected by the crest factor of the waveform, the ratio
of the peak value to the RMS value. 500Hz is the maximum fundamental frequency at which the
corresponding crest factor must be taken into account for accuracy calculations.

Low level considerations

For sensitive measurements, external considerations beyond the Model 2010 affect the
accuracy. Effects not noticeable when working with higher voltages are signif cant in microvolt
signals. The Model 2010 reads only the signal received at its input; therefore, it is important that
this signal be properly transmitted from the source. The following paragraphs indicate factors
that affect accuracy, including stray signal pick-up and thermal offsets.

2-18 Basic Measurements

Shielding

AC voltages that are extremely large compared with the DC signal to be measured may
produce an erroneous output. Therefore, to minimize AC interference, the circuit should be
shielded with the shield connected to the Model 2010 INPUT LO (particularly for low level
sources). Improper shielding can cause the Model 2010 to behave in one or more of the
following ways:

• Unexpected offset voltages.

• Inconsistent readings between ranges.

• Sudden shifts in reading.

To minimize pick-up, keep the voltage source and the Model 2010 away from strong AC
magnetic sources. The voltage induced due to magnetic f ux is proportional to the area of the
loop formed by the input leads. Therefore, minimize the loop area of the input leads and connect
each signal at only one point.

Thermal EMFs

Thermal EMFs (thermoelectric potentials) are generated by thermal differences between the
junctions of dissimilar metals. These can be large compared to the signal that the Model 2010
can measure. Thermal EMFs can cause the following conditions:

• Instability or zero offset is much higher than expected.

• The reading is sensitive to (and responds to) temperature changes. This effect can be
demonstrated by touching the circuit, by placing a heat source near the circuit, or by a
regular pattern of instability (corresponding to changes in sunlight or the activation of
heating and air conditioning systems).

To minimize the drift caused by thermal EMFs, use copper leads to connect the circuit to the
Model 2010. A banana plug generates a few microvolts. A clean copper conductor such as #10
bus wire is ideal for this application. The leads to the input may be shielded or unshielded, as
necessary.

Widely varying temperatures within the circuit can also create thermal EMFs. Therefore,
maintain constant temperatures to minimize these thermal EMFs. A shielded enclosure around
the circuit under test also helps by minimizing air currents.

The REL control can be used to null out constant offset voltages.

NOTE Additional thermals may be generated by the optional scanner cards.

Basic Measurements 2-19

AC voltage offset

The Model 2010, at 5½ digits resolution, will typically display 100 counts of offset on AC
volts with the input shorted. This offset is caused by the offset of the TRMS converter. This offset
will not affect reading accuracy and should not be zeroed out using the REL feature. The follow­ing equation expresses how this offset (V

) is added to the signal input (VIN):

OFFSET

Displayed reading VIN()2V

()

+=

OFFSET

2

Example: Range = 1VAC

Offset = 100 counts (1.0mV)
Input = 100mV RMS

Displayed reading 100mV()21.0mV()

Displayed reading 0.01V()1106–V×()+=

Displayed reading 0.100005 =

+=

2

The offset is seen as the last digit, which is not displayed. Therefore, the offset is negligible.
If the REL feature were used to zero the display, the 100 counts of offset would be subtracted
from V

, resulting in an error of 100 counts in the displayed reading.

IN

See Section 3 for information on the conf guration options for DC and AC voltage
measurements.

2-20 Basic Measurements

Ratio

The Model 2010 can perform a quotient calculation between the sense input (denominator)
and the measure input (numerator). This calculation can only be performed for DC voltages.
This function can be useful when comparing several voltages to a single voltage in a piece of
equipment. The sense input is used as the reference input. With this function, the sense terminals
can be used to measure DC volts in 100mV, 1V, and 10V ranges.

Connections

Assuming factory default conditions, the basic procedure is:

1. Connect test leads to the INPUT HI and LO terminals. Either the front or rear inputs can
be used; place the INPUTS button in the appropriate position.

2. Connect test leads to the SENSE HI and LO terminals. Use the same inputs (front or
rear) as in the previous step.

3. Press DCV.

4. Connect SENSE LO and LO together. SENSE LO and LO cannot have a voltage
difference of greater than 5% of either lowest range selected.

5. Press AUTO to toggle autoranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed with
autoranging. If you want manual ranging, use the RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys to select a
measurement range consistent with the expected voltages.

6. Press SHIFT then RATIO. Use the ▲, ▼, , and keys to toggle RATIO to ON and
SENSEIN to OFF. The display will read RA for RATIO.

NOTE RATIO takes priority if both RATIO and SENSE IN are toggled to ON, and the display

will read RS at the far right. If only SENSE IN is turned ON, the Model 2010 reads
only the voltage present at the SENSE terminals.

7. Connect test leads from the INPUT HI and LO terminals to the source to be measured.

8. Connect test leads from the SENSE HI and LO terminals to the reference source.

CAUTION Do not apply more than 1000V peak to the INPUT terminals or more than

350V peak to the SENSE terminals, or instrument damage may occur.

9. Observe the display. If the “OVERFLOW” message is displayed, select a higher range
until an on-scale reading is displayed (or press AUTO for autoranging). Use the lowest
possible range for the best resolution.

10. Take readings from the display.

NOTE To use autorange with the RATIO function, the following applies. When both RATIO

and SENSE IN are turned on (the display will show RS), the AUTO key applies to the
sense inputs. When RATIO is on and SENSE IN is off (display will show RA), the
AUTO key applies to the input terminals. To have autorange apply to both functions,
go into each function first and select AUTO before RATIO ON is enabled.

Measuring voltage with the SENSE terminals

The SENSE terminals can be used to measure DC voltage in the 100mV, 1V, and 10V ranges.

Assuming factory default conditions, make the connections as follows:

1. Connect test leads to the SENSE HI and LO terminals. Either the front or rear inputs can
be used; place the INPUTS button in the appropriate position.

2. Connect SENSE LO to LO. SENSE LO and LO cannot have a voltage difference of
greater than 5% of the lowest range selected.

3. Press DCV.

4. Press SHIFT then RATIO. Use the ▲, ▼, , and keys to toggle RATIO to OFF and
SENSEIN to ON. Note that the display will read VS for voltage on SENSE terminals.

5. Press AUTO to toggle autoranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed with
autoranging. If you want manual ranging, use RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys to select a
measurement range consistent with the expected voltages.

NOTE Only 100mV, 1V, and 10V ranges are available in either AUTO or manual ranging.

6. Connect test leads to the source.

CAUTION Do not apply more than 350V peak to the SENSE terminals, or instrument

damage may occur.

7. Observe the display. If the “OVERFLOW” message is displayed, select a higher range
until an on-scale reading is displayed (or press AUTO for autoranging). Use the lowest
possible range for the best resolution.

8. Take readings from the display.

Basic Measurements 2-21

Using ratio with the relative function

The relative (rel) function is normally used to null offsets or to subtract a baseline reading
from present and future readings. (See “Relative” in Section 3 for complete details.) When
relative is used with the ratio mode, the instrument calculates the ratio reading as follows:

Measure Input

Ratio = – Measure Input Rel Value

Sense Input

For example, assume the following:

Measure Input: 5V

Sense Input: 2V

Rel Value: 1V

The ratio value is:

Ratio = (5/2) – 1 = 1.5

Fi

5

D

2-22 Basic Measurements

Measuring current

The Model 2010 can make DCI measurements from 10nA to 3A and ACI measurements from

1µA to 3A RMS.

NOTE See the previous discussion about crest factor in “Measuring voltage” of this section.

Connections

Assuming factory default conditions, the basic procedure is:

1. Connect test leads to the AMPS and INPUT LO terminals. The front inputs must be used;
place the INPUTS button in the FRONT position.

2. Select the measurement function by pressing DCI or ACI.

3. Pressing AUTO toggles autoranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed with
autoranging. If you want manual ranging, use the RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys to select a
measurement range consistent with the expected current.

4. Connect test leads to the source as shown in Figure 2-5.

CAUTION Do not apply more than 3A, 250V to the input or the AMPS fuse will

open-circuit.

gure 2-

C and AC current

measurements

5. Observe the display. If the “OVERFLOW” message is displayed, select a higher range
until an on-scale reading is displayed (or press AUTO for autoranging). Use the lowest
possible range for the best resolution.

6. Take readings from the display.

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

Caution: Maximum Input = 3A DC or RMS

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

Current

Source

AMPS fuse replacement

WARNING Make sure the instrument is disconnected from the power line and other

equipment before replacing the AMPS fuse.

1. Turn off the power and disconnect the power line and test leads.

2. From the front panel, gently push in the AMPS jack with your thumb and rotate the fuse
carrier one-quarter turn counter-clockwise. Release pressure on the jack and its internal
spring will push the jack out of the socket.

3. Remove the fuse and replace it with the same type (3A, 250V, fast blow, 5 × 20mm). The
Keithley part number is FU-99-1.

CAUTION Do not use a fuse with a higher current rating than specified or instrument

damage may occur. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses, locate and
correct the cause of the trouble before replacing the fuse. See the Model 2010
Service Manual for troubleshooting information.

4. Install the new fuse by reversing the procedure above.

See Section 3 for information on the conf guration options for DC and AC current

measurements.

Basic Measurements 2-23

2-24 Basic Measurements

Measuring resistance

The Model 2010 can make two-wire and four-wire resistance measurements from 1µΩ to

120MΩ.

Connections

Assuming factory default conditions, the basic procedure is:

1. Connect test leads to the Model 2010 as follows:

A. For Ω2-wire, connect the test leads to INPUT HI and LO.
B. For Ω4-wire, connect the test leads to INPUT HI and LO, and SENSE Ω4 WIRE

HI and LO. Recommended Kelvin test probes include the Keithley Models 5805
and 5806. Either the front or rear inputs can be used; place the INPUTS button in
the appropriate position.

2. Select the measurement function by pressing Ω2 or Ω4.

3. Pressing AUTO toggles autoranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed with
autoranging. If you want manual ranging, use the RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys to select a
measurement range consistent with the expected resistance.

4. Connect test leads to the resistance as shown in Figure 2-6.

CAUTION Do not apply more than 1000V peak between INPUT HI and LO or 350V

peak between SENSE HI and SENSE LO, or instrument damage may occur.

5. Observe the display. If the “OVERFLOW” message is displayed, select a higher range
until an on-scale reading is displayed. Use the lowest possible range for the best
resolution.

6. Take a reading from the display.

Fi

6

Basic Measurements 2-25

gure 2-

Two- and four-wire
resistance
measurements

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

Shielded

Cable

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT
HI to INPUT LO terminals.

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1

TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH

REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

Shielded

Cable

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI
to INPUT LO terminals.

Optional Shield

Resistance

Under Test

Optional Shield

Resistance
Under Test

Shielding

To achieve a stable reading, shield resistances greater than 100kΩ. Place the resistance in a

shielded enclosure and connect the shield to the INPUT LO terminal of the instrument
electrically.

See Section 3 for information on the conf guration options for two-wire and four-wire

resistance measurements.

Low resistance measurements

The Model 2010 can be used for low resistance measurements normally handled by a micro­ohmmeter. The following paragraphs discuss the Model 2010’s dry circuit testing and offset
compensation modes.

2-26 Basic Measurements

Dry circuit testing

Many low resistance measurements are made on contact devices such as switches and relay
contacts. The purpose of these tests is to determine whether oxidation has increased the
resistance of the contacts. If the voltage across the contacts during the test is too high, the
oxidation will be punctured and render the test meaningless.

Dry circuit testing limits the voltage across the DUT to 20mV or less.

NOTE This function is only available in four-wire ohms.

Offset compensation

Offset compensation is used to compensate for voltage potential, such as thermal offsets,
across the device under test. In offset compensation, a full-scale source current is applied to the
resistance being measured during part of the measurement cycle. Figure 2-7 shows the measure­ment cycle. During the f rst half of the measurement cycle, the reduced source current is applied
and the voltage being measured is any thermal EMFs present in the circuit plus the voltage
across R

S

with the reduced source current:

V

M2

V

+=

EMFISRRS

During the second half of the measurement cycle, the full-scale source current is on, and the
total voltage measured includes the voltage drop across the resistor and any thermal EMFs. This
is defined as follows:

V

V

M1

+=

EMFISFSRS

Offset compensation is available up to 100MΩ. However, compensation is only being used
on the 10KΩ and lower ranges. An ’o’ will flash on the display if offset compensation is turned
on and measuring 100KΩ and higher ranges, indicating offset compensation has no effect.

Since the thermal EMF voltage is measured during the f rst and second half of the cycle, it
can be subtracted from the voltage measurement made during the f rst half of the cycle. The
result is the offset-compensated voltage measurement:

– V=

V

M1VM2

V

+()V

V

M

EMFISFSRS

RSI

–()=

SFSISR

M

+()–=

EMFISRRS

Therefore,

V

R

S

M

-------------------------=

I

–

SFSISR

Fi

7

Basic Measurements 2-27

gure 2-

Offset-compensated

One measurement cycle

ohms measurement

Source
Current

Thermal offset
measurement

Voltage measurement with
source current off

VM1

Voltage measurement with
source current on

VEMF

ISR

RS

VM1

VFMF

ISFS

RS

2-28 Basic Measurements

Measuring frequency and period

The Model 2010 can make frequency measurements from 3Hz to 500kHz on voltage ranges
of 100mV, 1V, 10V, 100V, and 750V. Period measurements can be taken from 2µs to 333ms on
the same voltage ranges as the frequency.

The instrument uses the volts input terminals to measure frequency. The AC voltage range can
be changed with the RANGE ▲ and ▼ keys. The signal voltage must be greater than 10% of
the full-scale range.

CAUTION The voltage limit is subject to the 8

Trigger level

Frequency and Period use a zero-crossing trigger, which means a count is taken when the
frequency crosses the zero level. The Model 2010 uses a reciprocal counting technique to
measure frequency and period. This method generates constant measurement resolution for any
input frequency. The multimeter’s AC voltage measurement section performs input signal
conditioning.

Gate time

The gate time is the amount of time the Model 2010 uses to sample frequency or period
readings. All settings of the RATE key (FAST, MEDium, SLOW) yield a gate time of one
second.

The Model 2010 completes a reading when it receives its first zero-crossing after the ate
time expires. In other words, the reading is completed 1/2 cycle after the gate time has expired.
For example, with a 1 second gate time to sample a 3Hz frequency, you may wait up to 3 seconds
before the Model 2010 returns a reading.

×

107V•Hz product.

Connections

Fi

8

F

Assuming factory default conditions, the basic procedure is:

1. Connect test leads to the INPUT HI and LO terminals of the Model 2010. Either the front

2. Select the FREQ or PERIOD function.

3. Connect test leads to the source as shown in Figure 2-8.

CAUTION Do not exceed 1000V peak between INPUT HI and INPUT LO or

4. Take a reading from the display.

See Section 3 for information on the conf guration options for frequency and period

measurements.

Basic Measurements 2-29

or rear inputs can be used; place the INPUTS button in the appropriate position.

instrument damage may occur.

gure 2-

Model 2010

requency and period

measurements

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

Input Impedance = 1MΩ in parallel with <100pF

Caution: Maximum Input = 1000V peak, 8 x 107 V•Hz

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

AC Voltage

Source

2-30 Basic Measurements

Measuring temperature

The Model 2010 can measure temperature with a four-wire RTD sensor or a thermocouple.
The temperature measurement ranges available depend on the type of RTD or thermocouple
chosen.

RTDs can be connected to the banana jacks on the front or rear panel.

Thermocouples can be connected to the Model 2001-TCSCAN card, which plugs into the
option slot of the Model 2010, or to an external thermocouple card, such as a Model 7057A,
7402, or 7014 installed in a Model 7001 or 7002 Switch System.

If the Model 2001-TCSCAN card is not used then an estimate of the panel temperature must
be made (usually 2°C above room temperature). Connect the thermocouple card directly to the
front panel Input HI and LO as shown in Figure 2-9. To input the panel temperature estimate,
choose the TCOUPLE conf guration option and select JUNC. Pick the SIM option and input the
estimate.

Connections

Fi

9

gure 2-

Thermocouple and RTD
temperature measurements

Basic Measurements 2-31

2001-TCSCAN

+

-

Note: This thermocouple card
must be inserted into a
Keithley Model 2010.

Note: Front or rear inputs
can be used.

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1

TALK

0
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

STATRELFILT4WBUFFER

HOLDTRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

Input

HI

Input

LO

CH 2

OUT A HI

OUT A LO

A. Thermocouple Connections

Model 2010

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1

CH1REM
TALK
LSTN
SRQ

SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH

REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

B. 4-Wire RTD Connections

Input HI

Input LO

Sense Ω4-wire HI

Platinum

RTD

Sense Ω4-wire LO

2-32 Basic Measurements

Configuration

The following provides the various configuration options for temperature measurements. To

select and conf gure either a thermocouple or four-wire RTD measurement:

Press SHIFT then SENSOR. Four choices are available using the ▲ and ▼ keys:

• UNITS — C, K, F (Centigrade, Kelvin, Fahrenheit). This parameter selects the displayed
units for temperature measurements.

• SENSOR — TCOUPLE, 4W-RTD (sensor type). This parameter selects the type of
sensor being used.

• TYPE — J, N, T, K (thermocouple type) or PT100, USER, PT3916, PT385, F100, D100
(4W-RTD type). Note that with USER selected, you must set the Alpha, Beta, Delta, and
RZero values from over the GPIB bus or the RS-232 Interface (see “USER RTD Type”
for details).

• JUNC — SIM, CH1 (simulated or referenced at Channel 1). Typically, a thermocouple
card uses a single reference junction. The Model 2010 can simulate a reference junction
temperature or use the reference junction on a thermocouple switching card. Typical
reference junction temperatures are 0°C and 23°C. In order to keep the reference
calculations updated and accurate, Channel 1 needs to be read periodically.

To assign a value to a parameter, use the ▲ and ▼ keys to scroll to the desired parameter.
Select the key, and use the ▲ and ▼ keys to scroll through and choose the preferred value.
Select the ENTER key to save your changes.

Math

USER RTD Type

Alpha, Beta, Delta, and RZero values for the USER RTD type cannot be set from the front
panel. These values can only be set remotely from the GPIB bus or the RS-232 Interface. After
selecting USER, use the following commands to set the RTD factors:

[:SENSe[1]]:TEMPerature:FRTD:ALPHa <NRf> Specify alpha value (0 to 0.01)

[:SENSe[1]]:TEMPerature:FRTD:BETA <NRf> Specify beta value (0 to 1.00)

[:SENSe[1]]:TEMPerature:FRTD:DELTa <NRf> Specify delta value (0 to 5.00)

[:SENSe[1]]:TEMPerature:FRTD:RZERo <NRf> Specify resistance at 0° C (0 to 10000)

NOTE For details on these commands, see “FRTD commands” in the SENSe Subsystem

(Section 5).

Model 2010 math operations are divided into four categories:

• mX+b and percent

• dBm and dB calculations

• Statistics of buffered readings

• Limit testing

mX + b

Basic Measurements 2-33

The first two categories are discussed in the following paragraphs. Buffered reading statistics

and reading limit testing are described in Section 3.

The procedure to select and conf gure a math operation is:

1. Press SHIFT then the appropriate math key.

2. Configure the parameters for the math operation. Press ENTER when nished. (Press
SHIFT then the related math function to end the calculation.)

NOTES Once enabled for a function, the mX+b and percentage calculations are in effect

across function changes.

The Model 2010 uses IEEE-754 floating point format for math calculations.

This math operation lets you manipulate normal display readings (X) mathematically

according to the following calculation:

Y= mX + b

where: X is the normal display reading.

m and b are user-entered constants for scale factor and offset.
Y is the displayed result.

Configuration

To configure the mX+b calculation, perform the foll wing steps:

1. Press SHIFT then MX+B to display the present scale factor:

M: +1.000000 ^

2. Enter a value and units pref x. Use the and keys to choose a numerical place and
use the ▲ and ▼ keys to increment or decrement the digits.

3. Press ENTER to conf rm the M value and display the B value:

B: +00.00000 m

4. Enter a value and units pref x.

5. Press ENTER to conf rm the B value and display the UNITS designation:

MX

6. Scroll through the letters to change and press ENTER when f nished.

The Model 2010 will display the result of the calculation.

2-34 Basic Measurements

Percent

Percent selects the percentage calculation and lets you specify a reference value. The
displayed reading will be expressed as a percent deviation from the reference value. The
percentage calculation is performed as follows:

where: Input is the normal display reading.

Configuration

To configure the percent calculation, perform the foll wing steps:

1. Press SHIFT then % to display the present value:

REF:+1.000000^

2. Enter a reference sign, value, and units pref x. Use the and keys to choose a
numerical place and use the ▲ and ▼ keys to increment or decrement the digits.

3. Press ENTER when done.

Input - Reference

Percent

-----------------------------------------­Input

Reference is the user entered constant.
Percent is the displayed result.

100%×=

The Model 2010 will display the result of the calculation. The result is positive when the input
exceeds the reference and negative when the input is less than the reference. Engineering units
are used to show values in the range 1 nano to 1000G. Exponential notation is used above that
range.

dBm calculation

dBm is defined as decibels above or below a 1mW reference. With a user-programmable
reference impedance, the Model 2010 reads 0dBm when the voltage needed to dissipate 1mW
through the reference impedance is applied. The relationship between dBm, a reference
impedance, and the voltage is def ned by the following equation:

Where: V

Z

NOTE Do not confuse reference impedance with input impedance. The input impedance of

the instrument is not modified by the dBm parameter.

If a relative value is in effect when dBm is selected, the value is converted to dBm, and then
REL is applied to dBm. If REL is applied after dBm has been selected, dBm math has REL
applied to it.

2



/Z

V

IN



dBm = 10 log

is the DC or AC input signal.

IN

is the specif ed reference impedance.

REF

--------------------------------­1mW

REF

Configuration

To set the reference impedance, perform the following steps:

1. After selecting dBm, the present reference impedance is displayed (1-9999Ω):

REF: 0075

2. To change the reference impedance, use the and keys to select the numeric
position. Then use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select the desired value. Be sure to press ENTER
after changing the reference impedance.

NOTES dBm is valid for positive and negative values of DC volts.

dB calculation

Expressing DC or AC voltage in dB makes it possible to compress a large range of
measurements into a much smaller scope. The relationship between dB and voltage is def ned
by the following equation:

Basic Measurements 2-35

The mX+b and percent math operations are applied after the dBm or dB math. For
example, if mX+b is selected with m=10 and b=0, the display will read 10.000 MX
for a 1VDC signal. If dBm is selected with Z

V

dB= 20 log

IN

-----------------­V

REF

= 50Ω, the display will read 130MX.

REF

where: V

is the DC or AC input signal.

IN

is the specif ed voltage reference level.

V

REF

The instrument will read 0dB when the reference voltage level is applied to the input.

If a relative value is in effect when dB is selected, the value is converted to dB then REL is

applied to dB. If REL is applied after dB has been selected, dB has REL applied to it.

Configuration

To set the reference voltage, perform the following steps:

1. After selecting dB, the voltage applied between HI and LO is acquired and presented as
the reference voltage. This level can then be adjusted.

REF: +1.000000^

2. To change the reference level, use the and keys to select the numeric position.
Then use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select the desired value. Move the cursor to the rightmost
position (^) and use the ▲ and ▼ keys to move the decimal point. Be sure to press
ENTER after changing the reference voltage.

NOTE The largest negative value of dB is -160dB. This will accommodate a ratio of

V

= 10µV and V

IN

= 1000V.

REF

Fi

10

C

2-36 Basic Measurements

Measuring continuity

The Model 2010 uses the 1kΩ range to measure circuit continuity. After selecting continuity,

the unit prompts you for a threshold resistance level (1Ω-1000Ω). The Model 2010 alerts you
with a beep when a reading is below the set level.

To measure the continuity of a circuit, press SHIFT then CONT, set the threshold resistance

level, and connect the circuit.

NOTE Continuity has a non-selectable reading rate of FAST (0.1 PLC).

Connections

Connect the circuit you want to test to the INPUT HI and INPUT LO terminals of the

Model 2010. The test current f ows from the INPUT HI as shown in Figure 2-10.

gure 2-

ontinuity measurements

Threshold resistance level

these steps to def ne the resistance level:

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT
HI to INPUT LO terminals.

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

Resistance

Under Test

You can define a threshold resistance from 1Ω to 1000Ω. The factory setting is 10Ω. Follow

1. Press SHIFT then CONT.

2. Use the and keys to choose a numerical place and use the ▲ and ▼ keys to
increment or decrement the digits. Enter a value from 1 to 1000.

3. Press ENTER to conf rm your setting.

Testing diodes

Fi

11

D

With a Model 2010, you can measure the forward voltage drop of general-purpose diodes and
the zener voltage of zener diodes. To test diodes, press SHIFT then , set the test current
range, connect the diode, and take a reading from the display.

NOTE Diode test has a non-selectable reading rate of MEDium (1 PLC).

Connections

Connect the diode leads to the INPUT HI and INPUT LO terminals on the Model 2010. The
test current f ows from the INPUT HI terminal as shown in Figure 2-11.

Basic Measurements 2-37

gure 2-

iode testing

Range

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

MATH
REAR

2001 MULTIMETER

General-Purpose

Diode

Model 2010

CH1REM

SCAN

STEP CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8CH9 CH1
TALK
LSTN
SRQ
SHIFT

HOLD TRIG FAST MED SLOW AUTO ERR

TIMER

MATH
REAR

0

STATREL FILT4WBUFFER

2001 MULTIMETER

Note: Source current flows from the
INPUT HI to INPUT LO terminals.

Zener
Diode

You can set the test current range from the front panel. The choices are 1mA, 100µA, and
10µA. The factory test current setting is 1mA. To set the test current, perform the following
steps:

1. Press SHIFT and then .

2. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to scroll through the three test current selections.

The diode test measures voltages up to 10V for the 1mA test current, 5V for 100µA, and 10V
for the 10µA range. If a reading is more than 10V, the Model 2010 displays the “OVERFLOW”
status message.

2-38 Basic Measurements2-38 Basic Measurements

3

Measurement

Options

3

Measurement

Options

3-2 Measurement Options

Introduction

This section describes the front panel features of the Model 2010. For those measurement
options accessible only by a remote interface, refer to Sections 4 and 5. This section is organized
as follows:

• Measurement configuration — Describes ranging, f ltering, relative readings, digits of
resolution, and measurement rate.

• Trigger operations — Uses a trigger model to explain trigger modes and sources.

• Buffer operations — Discusses the reading storage buffer and buffer statistics.

• Limit operations — Defines how to set reading limits.

• Scan operations — Explains the internal and external scanning capabilities.

• System operations — Gives details on setup saving and restoring, selecting a remote
interface, and accessing test and calibration.

Measurement configuration

The following paragraphs discuss conf guring the multimeter for making measurements. See

the end of Appendix A for information about optimizing readings for speed or accuracy.

Range

The selected measurement range affects both the ultimate digits and accuracy of the
measurements as well as the maximum signal that can be measured. The range setting (f xed or
auto) for each measurement function is saved when changing functions.

Maximum readings

The full scale readings for every range on each function are 20% overrange except for the
1000VDC, 750VAC, 3ADC, 3AAC, 1MΩ two-wire and four-wire, and diode test ranges.

Input values more than the maximum readings cause the "OVERFLOW" message to be
displayed.

Manual ranging

To select a range, press the RANGE ▲ or ▼ key. The instrument changes one range per
keypress. The selected range is displayed for one second.

If the instrument displays the "OVERFLOW" message on a particular range, select a higher
range until an on-range reading is displayed. Use the lowest range possible without causing an
overfl w to ensure best accuracy and resolution.

Note that the temperature and continuity functions have just one range.

Filter

Measurement Options 3-3

Autoranging

To enable autoranging, press the AUTO key. The AUTO annunciator turns on when
autoranging is selected. While autoranging is selected, the instrument automatically chooses the
best range to measure the applied signal. Autoranging should not be used when optimum speed
is required.

Note that up-ranging occurs at 120% of range, while down-ranging occurs at 10% of nominal
range.

To cancel autoranging, press AUTO or the RANGE ▲ or ▼ key. Pressing AUTO to cancel
autoranging leaves the instrument on the present range.

The AUTO key has no effect on the temperature, continuity, and diode test functions.

Filter lets you set the f lter response to stabilize noisy measurements. The Model 2010 uses a
digital filte . The displayed, stored, or transmitted reading is simply an average of a number of
reading conversions (from 1 to 100).

To select a filter

1. Use the FILTER button to enable the f lter. The FILT annunciator will come on when
FILTER is enabled.

2. Press SHIFT then TYPE.

3. Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to select the number of readings and then press ENTER.

4. Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to select the type of f lter desired (moving average or
repeating) and then press ENTER.

The FILT annunciator turns on. When a filter is enabled, the selected f lter configuration for

that measurement function is in effect.

Pressing FILTER once disables the f lter.

NOTE The filter can be set for any measurement function except frequency, period,

continuity, and diode test.

Fi

1

M

3-4 Measurement Options

Filter types

The moving average filter(Figure 3-1) uses a first-in, first-outstack. When the stack becomes
full, the measurement conversions are averaged, yielding a reading. For each subsequent
conversion placed into the stack, the oldest conversion is discarded, and the stack is re-averaged,
yielding a new reading.

For the repeating f lter (Figure 3-1), the stack is f lled and the conversions are averaged to
yield a reading. The stack is then cleared and the process starts over. Choose this f lter for
scanning so readings from other channels are not averaged with the present channel.

Response time

The filter parameters have speed and accuracy tradeoffs for the time needed to display, store,
or output a f ltered reading. These affect the number of reading conversions for speed versus
accuracy and response to input signal changes.

gure 3-

oving average and

repeating filters

Conversion #10
#9

Conversion #1

Conversion #10
#9

Conversion #1

#8
#7
#6
#5
#4
#3
#2

A. Type - Moving Average, Readings = 10

#8
#7
#6
#5
#4
#3
#2

B. Type - Repeating, Readings = 10

Reading

#1

Reading

#1

Conversion #11
#10

Conversion #2

Conversion #20
#19

Conversion #11

#9
#8
#7
#6
#5
#4
#3

#18
#17
#16
#15
#14
#13
#12

Conversion #12
#11

#8

Reading

#2

Conversion #3

Reading

#2

#10
#9

#7
#6
#5
#4

Conversion #30
#29

#26

Conversion #21

#28
#27

#25
#24
#23
#22

Reading

#3

Reading

#3

Relative

Measurement Options 3-5

The rel (relative) function can be used to null offsets or subtract a baseline reading from
present and future readings. When rel is enabled, the instrument uses the present reading as a
relative value. Subsequent readings will be the difference between the actual input value and the
rel value.

You can definea rel value for each function. Once a rel value is established for a measurement
function, the value is the same for all ranges. For example, if 50V is set as a rel value on the
100V range, the rel is also 50V on the 1000V, 10V, 1V, and 100mV ranges.

NOTE When a rel value is larger than the range selected, the display is formatted to

maximum resolution and range information is lost.

Thus, when you perform a zero correction for DCV, Ω2, and Ω4 measurements by enabling
REL, the displayed offset becomes the reference value. Subtracting the offset from the actual
input zeroes the display, as follows:

Actual Input – Reference = Displayed Reading

A rel value can be as large as the highest range.

Selecting a range that cannot accommodate the rel value does not cause an overfl w
condition, but it also does not increase the maximum allowable input for that range. For
example, on the 10V range, the Model 2010 still overfl ws for a 12V input.

Digits

To set a rel (relative) value, press REL key when the display shows the value you want as the
relative value. The REL annunciator turns on. Pressing REL a second time disables rel.

You can input a REL value manually using the mX+b function. Set M for 1 and B for any
value. See Section 2 for more information on the mX+b function.

The display resolution of a Model 2010 reading depends on the DIGITS setting. It has no
effect on the remote reading format. The number of displayed digits does not affect accuracy or
speed. Those parameters are controlled by the RATE setting.

Perform the following steps to set digits for a measurement function:

1. Press the desired function.

2. Press the DIGITS key until the desired number of digits is displayed (3½ to 7½).

NOTE Frequency and period can be displayed with four to seven digits. ACV, AC Amps, and

dryckt ohms are limited to 6½ digits resolution.

3-6 Measurement Options

Rate

The rate operation sets the integration time of the A/D converter, the period of time the input
signal is measured (also known as aperture). The integration time affects the usable digits, the
amount of reading noise, as well as the ultimate reading rate of the instrument. The integration
time is specif ed in parameters based on a number of power line cycles (NPLC), where 1 PLC
for 60Hz is 16.67msec and 1 PLC for 50Hz and 400Hz is 20msec.

In general, the fastest integration time (FAST (0.1 PLC) from the front panel, 0.01 PLC from
the bus) results in increased reading noise and fewer usable digits, while the slowest integration
time (SLOW (5PLC) from the front panel, 10PLC from the bus) provides the best common­mode and normal-mode rejection. In-between settings are a compromise between speed and
noise.

The RATE parameters are explained as follows:

• FAST sets integration time to 0.1 PLC. Use FAST if speed is of primary importance (at
the expense of increased reading noise and fewer usable digits).

• MEDium sets integration time to 1 PLC. Use MEDium when a compromise between
noise performance and speed is acceptable.

• SLOW sets integration time to 5PLC. SLOW provides better noise performance at the
expense of speed.

NOTE The integration time can be set for any measurement function except frequency

(SLOW), period (SLOW), continuity (FAST), and diode test (MEDium). For frequency
and period, this value is gate time or aperture.

For the AC functions, MEDium and SLOW have no effect on the number of power line
cycles.

Measurement Options 3-7

Bandwidth

The rate setting for AC voltage and current measurements determines the bandwidth setting:

• Slow — 3Hz to 300kHz.

• Medium — 30Hz to 300kHz.

• Fast — 300Hz to 300kHz.

Bandwidth is used to specify the lowest frequency of interest. When the Slow bandwidth
(3Hz to 300kHz) is chosen, the signal goes through an analog RMS converter. The output of the
RMS converter goes to a fast (1kHz) sampling A/D and the RMS value is calculated from 1200
digitized samples (1.2s).

When the Medium bandwidth (30Hz to 300kHz) is chosen, the same circuit is used. However,
only 120 samples (120ms) are needed for an accurate calculation because the analog RMS
converter has turned most of the signal to DC.

In the Fast bandwidth (300Hz to 300kHz), the output of the analog RMS converter (nearly
pure DC at these frequencies) is simply measured at 1 PLC (16.6ms), 60Hz line frequency.

Table 3-1 lists the rate settings for the various measurement functions. The FAST, MED, and

SLOW annunciators are only lit when conditions in the table are met. In other case, the
annunciators are turned off.

Table 3-1

Rate settings for the measurement functions

Function

DCV, DCI
ACV, ACI
Ω2W, Ω4W
FREQ, PERIOD
dB, dBm (ACV)
dB, dBm (DCV)
Continuity
Diode test

Notes:
NPLC = number of power line cycles.
BW = lower limit of bandwidth (in Hz).
APER = aperture in seconds.
N/A = not available.
X = setting ignored.

Fast Medium Slow

NPLC=0.1
NPLC=1, BW=300
NPLC=0.1
APER=1s
NPLC=1, BW=300
NPLC=0.1
NPLC=0.1
N/A

NPLC=1
NPLC=X, BW=30
NPLC=1
APER=1s
NPLC=X, BW=30
NPLC=1
N/A
NPLC=1

Rate

NPLC=5
NPLC=X, BW=3
NPLC=5
APER=1s
NPLC=X, BW=3
NPLC=5
N/A
N/A

Fi

2

F

3-8 Measurement Options

Trigger operations

The following paragraphs discuss front panel triggering, the programmable trigger delay, the

reading hold feature, and external triggering.

Trigger model

The fl wchart in Figure 3-2 summarizes triggering as viewed from the front panel. It is called
a trigger model because it is modeled after the SCPI commands used to control triggering. Note
that for stepping and scanning, the trigger model has additional control blocks. These are
described later in this section.

gure 3-

ront panel triggering

without stepping/scanning

Idle

The instrument is considered to be in the idle state whenever it is not performing any
measurements or scanning functions. From the front panel, the unit is considered idle at the end
of a step or scan operation when the reading for the last channel remains displayed. To restore
triggers, use the SHIFT-HALT keys.

Once the Model 2010 is taken out of idle, operation proceeds through the f owchart.

Control source and event detection

The control source holds up operation until the programmed event occurs and is detected. The
control sources are described as follows:

Control
Source

Immediate

External

Idle

Event

Detection

Delay

Device
Action

Output
Trigger

• Immediate — With this control source, event detection is immediately satisf ed allowing
operation to continue.

• External — Event detection is satisf ed for any of the following three conditions:

• An input trigger via the Trigger Link line EXT TRIG is received.

• A bus trigger (GET or *TRG) is received.

• The front panel TRIG key is pressed. (The Model 2010 must be taken out of remote

before it will respond to the TRIG key. Use the LOCAL key or send LOCAL 716 over
the bus.)

Measurement Options 3-9

Delay

A programmable delay is available after event detection. It can be set manually or an auto
delay can be used. With auto delay, the Model 2010 selects a delay based on the function and
range. The AUTO settings are listed in Table 3-2.

Table 3-2

Auto delay settings

Function Range and delay

DCV

ACV

FREQ

DCI

ACI

Ω2W, Ω4W

dryckt
w/ & w/o ocomp
Continuity

Diode testing

The delay function is accessed by pressing the SHIFT-DELAY keys. The present delay
setting (AUTO or MANual) is displayed. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select the type of delay. If
MANual is chosen, also enter the duration of the delay. The maximum is 99H:99M:99.999S.

Press ENTER to accept the delay or EXIT for no change.

100mV
1ms
100mV
400ms
100mV
1ms

10mA
2ms

10Ω
3ms
10Ω
3ms

1V
1ms
1V
400ms
1V
1ms

100mA
2ms

100Ω
3ms
100Ω
13ms
1kΩ
3ms
1mA
1ms

10V
1ms
10V
400ms
10V
1ms

1A
2ms
1A
400ms

1kΩ
3ms

100µA
1ms

100V
5ms
100V
400ms
100V
1ms

3A
2ms
3A
400ms

10kΩ
13ms

10µA
1ms

1000V
5ms
750V
400ms
750V
1ms

100kΩ
25ms

1MΩ
100ms

10MΩ
150ms

100MΩ
250ms

Changing the delay to MANual on one function changes the delays on all functions to
MANual.

3-10 Measurement Options

Device actions

The primary device action is a measurement. However, the device action block could include

the following additional actions:

• Filtering — If the repeating f lter is enabled, the instrument samples the specif ed
number of reading conversions to yield single f ltered reading. Only one reading
conversion is performed if the f lter is disabled, or after the specif ed number of reading
conversions for a moving average filter is reached. The output of f lter feeds hold.

• Hold — With hold enabled, the f rst processed reading becomes the “seed” reading and
operation loops back within the device action block. After the next reading is processed,
it is checked to see if it is within the selected window (0.01%, 0.1%, 1%, 10%) of the
“seed” reading. If the reading is within the window, operation again loops back within
the device action block. This looping continues until the specif ed number (2 to 100)
consecutive readings are within the window. If one of the readings is not within the
window, the instrument acquires a new “seed” reading and the hold process continues.

• Channel closure — When stepping or scanning, the last device action is to open the
previous channel (if closed) and close the next channel. Using the hold feature provides
an auto settling time for the scanner relays. Each open/close transition will restart the
hold process and a reading for each channel will not occur until the relay settles.

Output trigger

After the device action, an output trigger occurs and is available at the rear panel Trigger Link
connector. This trigger can be used to trigger another instrument to perform an operation (e.g.,
select the next channel for an external scan).

Counters

The trigger model for stepping and scanning contains additional blocks for counting samples
(the number of channels to scan) and counting triggers. These counters are explained later in this
section.

Reading hold (autosettle)

When a hold reading is acquired, an audible beep is sounded (if enabled) and the reading is
considered a “true measurement”. The reading is held on the display until an “out of window”
reading occurs to restart the hold process.

When operating remotely or scanning, the hold process seeks a new “seed” once it has been
satisfied and the reading has been released. When operating from the front panel, the hold
process does not seek a new “seed” until the held condition is removed.

Hold example

Fi

3

R

1. Enable HOLD, select a window percentage, and enter a count.

2. Apply test probes to a signal. Once the signal becomes stable enough to satisfy the hold
condition, the reading is released, and the beeper sounds (if enabled).

3. Remove the hold condition by lifting the probes. Hold will then seek a new “seed”.

External triggering

The EXT TRIG key selects triggering from two external sources: trigger link and the TRIG
key. When EXT TRIG is pressed, the TRIG annunciator lights and dashes are displayed to
indicate the instrument is waiting for an external trigger. From the front panel, press the TRIG
key to trigger a single reading. Pressing the EXT TRIG key again toggles back to continuous
triggers.

The Model 2010 uses two lines of the Trigger Link rear panel connector as External Trigger
(EXT TRIG) input and Voltmeter Complete (VMC) output. The EXT TRIG line allows the
Model 2010 to be triggered by other instruments. The VMC line allows the Model 2010 to
trigger other instruments.

At the factory, line 1 is conf gured as VMC and line 2 as EXT TRIG. (Changing this
configuration is described in the Model 2010 Service Manual.) A connector pinout is shown in

Figure 3-3.

Measurement Options 3-11

gure 3-

ear panel pinout

Rear Panel Pinout

5

Pin 2

External

Trigger

Input

6

8

7

34

2

1

Pin 1
Voltmeter
Complete

Output

Pin Number Description

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

* Either pin 3 or 5 may be configured as an output instead of pin 1.
Either pin 4 or 6 may be configured as an input instead of pin 2.
See the Model 2010 Service Manual for details.

Voltmeter Complete Output

External Trigger Input

No Connection *

No Connection *

No Connection *

No Connection *

Signal Ground

Signal Ground

Fi

4

p

Fi

5

p

3-12 Measurement Options

External trigger

The EXT TRIG input requires a falling-edge, TTL-compatible pulse with the specif cations
shown in Figure 3-4. In general, external triggers can be used to control measure operations. For
the Model 2010 to respond to external triggers, the trigger model must be conf gured for it.

gure 3-

Trigger link input

ulse specifications

(EXT TRIG)

gure 3-

Trigger link output

ulse specifications

(VMC)

Triggers on
Leading Edge

TTL High
(2V-5V)

TTL Low
(≤0.8V)

2µs
Minimum

Voltmeter complete

The VMC output provides a TTL-compatible output pulse that can be used to trigger other
instruments. The specifications for this trigger pulse are shown in Figure 3-5. Typically, you
would want the Model 2010 to output a trigger after the settling time of each measurement.

Meter

Complete

TTL High

(3.4V Typical)

TTL Low

(0.25V Typical)

10µs
Minimum

External triggering example

In a typical test system, you may want to close a channel and then measure the DUT
connected to the channel with a multimeter. Such a test system is shown in Figure 3-6, which
uses a Model 2010 to measure ten DUTs switched by a Model 7011 multiplexer card in a
Model 7001/7002 Switch System.

Fi

gure 3-

6

D

WARNING:

NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

WARNING:

NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

CAUTION:

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

Fi

7

UT test system

DUT

#1

Measurement Options 3-13

1

OUTPUT

gure 3-

Trigger link
connections

DUT

#2

2

2000 MULTIMETER

2010 Multimeter

DUT

#10

10

Card 1

7011 MUX Card

The Trigger Link connections for this test system are shown in Figure 3-7. Trigger Link of
the Model 2010 is connected to Trigger Link (either IN or OUT) of the Model 7001/7002. Note
that with the default trigger settings on the Model 7001/7002, line #1 is an input and line #2 is
an output. This complements the trigger lines on the Model 2010.

7001 or 7002 Switch System

MADE IN USA

OUT

Trigger

Link

IN

350V

PEAK

!

Trigger

Link Cable

(8501)

SENSE
Ω 4W

2010 Multimeter

HI

1000V
PEAK

!

LO

500V
PEAK

INPUT

MADE IN

U.S.A.

IEEE-488

(CHANGE IEEE ADDRESS

RS232

120

Trigger

Link

FROM FRONT PANEL)

LINE RATING

50, 60
400HZ

17 VA MAX

TRIGGER

LINK

!

3 5

1

VMC

4 6

2

EXT TRIG

!

FUSE LINE

250mAT

100 VAC

(SB)

120 VAC

220 VAC

125mAT

240 VAC

(SB)

For this example, the Model 2010 and 7001/7002 are conf gured as follows:

Model 2010:

Factory defaults restored (accessed from SHIFT-SETUP)

External scanning, channels 1 - 10, no timer, 10 readings (accessed from SHIFT-CONFIG)

External triggers (accessed from EXT TRIG)

Model 7001 or 7002:

Factory defaults restored

Scan list = 1!1-1!10,

Number of scans = 1

Channel spacing = TrigLink

Fi

8

3-14 Measurement Options

To run the test and store readings in the Model 2010 with the unit set for external triggers,
press STEP or SCAN. The Model 2010 waits (with the asterisk annunciator lit) for an external
trigger from the Model 7001/7002.

Press STEP on the Model 7001/7002 to take it out of idle and start the scan. The scanner's
output pulse triggers the Model 2010 to take a reading, store it, and send a trigger pulse. The
following explanation on operation is referenced to the operation model shown in Figure 3-8.

gure 3-

Operation model for
triggering example

7001or 7002

Press STEP to start scan

Idle

Bypass

C

D

No

B

Wait for

Trigger Link

Trigger

Scan

Channel

Output
Trigger

Scanned

10

Channels

?

Yes

Trigger

Trigger

2010

Idle

A

Wait for

Trigger Link

Trigger

Make

Measurement

Output
Trigger

Made

10

Measurements

?

Yes

E

F

No

A

Pressing EXT TRIG then STEP or SCAN on the multimeter places it at point A in the
fl wchart, where it is waiting for an external trigger.

B

Pressing STEP takes the Model 7001/7002 out of the idle state and places operation at
point B in the f owchart.

C

For the first pass through the model, the scanner does not wait at point B for a trigger.
Instead, it closes the f rst channel.

D

After the relay settles, the Model 7001/7002 outputs a Channel Ready pulse. Since the
instrument is programmed to scan ten channels, operation loops back up to point B,
where it waits for an input trigger.

Fi

9

D

Measurement Options 3-15

E F

and The Model 2010 operation is at point A waiting for a trigger. The output
Channel Ready pulse from the Model 7001/7002 triggers the multimeter to measure
DUT #1 (point E). After the measurement is complete, the Model 2010 outputs a
completion pulse (point F) and then loops back to point A, where it waits for another
input trigger.

The trigger applied to the Model 7001/7002 from the Model 2010 closes the next channel in
the scan. This triggers the multimeter to measure the next DUT. The process continues until all
ten channels are scanned and measured.

External triggering with BNC connections

An adapter cable is available to connect the micro-DIN Trigger Link of the Model 2010 to
instruments with BNC trigger connections. The Model 8503 DIN to BNC Trigger Cable has a
micro-DIN connector at one end and two BNC connectors at the other end. The BNC cables are
labeled VMC (trigger line 1) and EXT TRIG (trigger line 2).

Figure 3-9 shows how a Keithley Model 706 Scanner can be connected to the Trigger Link

of the Model 2010 using the adapter cable. With this adapter, a Model 706 could be substituted
for the Model 7001/7002 in the previous example. With the Model 706 set for External
Triggering, the test would start when the single scan mode is selected and initiated.

If the Model 2010 trigger line conf guration has been changed from the factory setting, the
Model 8502 Trigger Link Adapter must be used to interface with instruments having BNC
trigger connections. It has two micro-DIN connectors and six BNC connectors, one for each
trigger line.

gure 3-

Model 8503 DIN to BNC Trigger Cable

IN to BNC trigger

cable

WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.WARNING:NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

HI

1000V

350V

PEAK

!

PEAK

LO

500V

1 3 5

INPUT

SENSE

PEAK

W 4W

!

2

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

CAUTION:FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

2010 Multimeter

MADE IN

KEITHLEY

U.S.A.

IEEE-488

(CHANGE IEEE ADDRESS

TRIGGER

LINK

!

VMC

4 6

EXT TRIG

!

FUSE LINE

250mAT

100 VAC

(SB)

120 VAC

125mAT

220 VAC

(SB)

240 VAC

FROM FRONT PANEL)

RS232

LINE RATING

50, 60
400HZ

17 VA MAX

Channel

Ready

External

Trigger

706 Scanner

3-16 Measurement Options

Buffer operations

The Model 2010 has a buffer to store from two to 1024 readings and units. It also stores the
channel number for scanned readings and overfl w readings. In addition, recalled data includes
statistical information, such as minimum, maximum, average, and standard deviation.

NOTE Statistics are not calculated when an overflow reading has been stored in the buffer.

The buffer fills with the requested number of readings and stops. Readings are placed in the
buffer after any math operations are performed. Buffered data is overwritten each time the
storage operation is selected. The data is volatile; it is not saved through a power cycle.

The following paragraphs discuss storing and recalling buffered data.

Storing readings

Use the following procedure to store readings:

1. Set up the instrument for the desired conf guration.

2. Press the STORE key.

3. Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to select the number of readings desired.

4. Press ENTER. The asterisk (*) annunciator turns on to indicate a data storage operation.
It will turn off when the storage is f nished.

Recalling readings

Use the following steps to view stored readings and buffer statistics:

1. Press RECALL. The BUFFER annunciator indicates that stored readings are being
displayed. The arrow annunciator indicates that more data can be viewed with the ,

, ▲, and ▼ keys.

2. As shown in Figure 3-10, use the cursor keys to navigate through the reading numbers,
reading values, and statistics. For any of the buffer statistics (maximum, minimum,
average, standard deviation), the STAT annunciator is on.

3. Use the EXIT key to return to the normal display.

Fi

gure 3-

10

B

uffer locations

Buffer statistics

Measurement Options 3-17

RDG NO. 10 Reading Value
RDG NO. 9 Reading Value
RDG NO. 8 Reading Value
RDG NO. 7 Reading Value
RDG NO. 6 Reading Value
RDG NO. 5 Reading Value
RDG NO. 4 Reading Value
RDG NO. 3 Reading Value

RANGE

RANGE

RDG NO. 2 Reading Value
RDG NO. 1 Reading Value
STD DEV Standard Deviation Value
Average Average Value
Min At XX Minimum Value
Max At XX Maximum Value

The MAX AT and MIN AT values are the maximum and minimum values in the buffer. The
AVERAGE value is the mean of the buffered readings. The equation used to calculate the mean
is:

n

X

∑

i

i1=

-----------------=

y

n

where: Xi is a stored reading.

n is the number of stored readings.

The STD DEV value is the standard deviation of the buffered readings. The equation used to
calculate the standard deviation is:

n

2

X

∑

y =

i

i1=

--------------------------------------------------------------

n





1





---X

–





n





i1=

∑

2

i

n-1

where: Xi is a stored reading.

n is the number of stored readings.

NOTE The Model 2010 uses IEEE-754 floating point format for math calculations.

3-18 Measurement Options

Limit operations

Limit operations set and control the values that determine the HI/IN/LO status of subsequent
measurements. Limits can be applied to all measurement functions except continuity. The limit
test is performed after mX+b and percent math operations. Unit pref xes are applied before the
limit test, for example:

• Low limit = -1.0, High limit = 1.0
A 150mV reading equals 0.15V (IN).

• Low limit = -1.0, High limit = 1.0
A 0.6kΩ reading equals 600Ω (HI).

You can configure the multimeter to beep when readings are inside or outside of the limit

range.

Setting limit values

Use the following steps to enter high and low limit values:

1. Press the SHIFT-LIMITS keys to view the present HI1 limit value:

HI1:+1.000000

This value represents the absolute value of that function.

2. Use the or keys to move to the number f eld. Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to
enter the desired value. Move the cursor to the rightmost position (^) and use the ▲ and
▼ keys to move the decimal point.

3. Press ENTER to view the present LO1 limit value:

LO1:-1.000000

This value represents the absolute value of that function.

4. Enter the desired value for this low limit.

5. Press ENTER to view the present HI2 limits value:

HI2: +2.000000^

This value represents the absolute value of that function.

6. Enter the desired value for this high limit.

7. Press ENTER to view the present LO2 limit value:

LO2: -2.000000^

This value represents the absolute value of that function.

8. Enter the desired value for the low limit. Pressing ENTER returns to the normal display.

^

^

Enabling limits

Fi

11

Use the following procedure to turn on the limits operation:

1. Press the SHIFT-ON/OFF keys to view the present beeper status:

BEEP: NEVER

2. Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to change the beeper status (NEVER, OUTSIDE, INSIDE). Press
ENTER when f nished.

When the multimeter returns to the normal display, the HI/IN/LO status is displayed along
with the reading. To disable limit testing, press SHIFT-ON/OFF again. An example of using
limits to sort resistors is shown in Figure 3-11.

Measurement Options 3-19

gure 3-

Using limits test to
sort 100Ω, 10%
resistors

LO IN HI

90Ω

LO Limit

110Ω

HI Limit

The CALC3:LIMit2 subsystem has all the same commands available as the CALC3:LIMit[1]
subsystem. From the front panel, the same menu is used to control the beeping state and
conditions (inside or outside) for both limits. Since there is only one beeper, there are two
distinct tones used for the two limits, but limit set 1 will take precedence.

Example: Power up with default limits (HLIM1 = +1, LLIM1 = -1,HLIM2 = +2, LLIM2 = -2).
Set the beeper to beep inside. Then, apply 0.9 volts. The beep will be higher in pitch. When the
voltage is increased past 1V, the input is no longer inside limit set 1 but is still inside limit set 2.
At that point, the tone of the beep will change, indicating that you are still inside limit set 2.

NOTE: Limit 1 takes priority over Limit 2 when beeper is set to outside. No change in tone

will be detected.

3-20 Measurement Options

Scan operations

The Model 2010 can be used with an internal scanner card (Model 2000 SCAN or
2001-TCSCAN) or with external scanner cards installed in switching mainframes such as the
Models 707, 7001, and 7002. The following paragraphs discuss various aspects of using
scanning with the Model 2010.

Scanning overview

A scanner lets you switch among a number of input signals to the Model 2010 for
measurement. The channel control and scanning capabilities depend on whether an internal or
external card is being used, as well as on the capabilities of the scanner card. Refer to the
documentation supplied with the scanner card for specif c connection information.

Using an internal scanner card

The optional Model 2000-SCAN scanner card lets you step through or scan up to ten
two-pole channels or f ve four-pole channels.

The optional Model 2001-TCSCAN Thermocouple/General Purpose Scanner Card lets you
multiplex one of nine two-pole or one of four four-pole analog signals into the Model 2010, and/
or any combination of two- or four-pole analog signals.

Using external scanner cards

When using external channels, the switching mainframe controls the opening and closing of
individual channels. To synchronize Model 2010 measurements with external channel closures,
connect the Trigger Link lines of the multimeter and switching mainframe. Refer to “Trigger
operations” earlier in this section for details and an example on using external triggering.

Front panel scanner controls

In addition to the trigger keys discussed previously, front panel keys that affect scanner card
operation include:

• and — Lets you manually step through consecutive internal card channels.

• OPEN and CLOSE — Let you selectively open and close internal card channels.

• SHIFT-CONFIG — Selects internal or external scanning, scan list, time between scans,
and reading count.

• STEP — Starts a stepping operation of consecutive channels, where output triggers are
sent after every channel closure.

• SCAN — Starts a scanning operation of consecutive channels, where an output trigger
is sent at the end of the scan list.

• SHIFT-HALT — Stops stepping or scanning and restores the trigger model to a non­scanning mode.

Using the  and  keys

The and keys can be used to manually scan through channels on the internal scanner
card. With a scanner card installed in the option slot, press the key to manually increment
channels or the key to manually decrement channels. The annunciator of the closed channel
is lit. Hold down either key to manually scan through channels continuously. Press OPEN to
open all channels.

Using OPEN and CLOSE keys

The OPEN and CLOSE keys control channels on the internal scanner card only. The keys
allow you to directly:

• Close a specif c channel (or channel pair for four-wire resistance).

• Immediately open any internal closed channel (or channel pair for four-wire resistance).

With a scanner card installed in the option slot of the Model 2010, the following prompt is
displayed when the CLOSE key is pressed:

CLOSE CHAN:01

Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to display the desired channel (1 to 10) and press ENTER.
The annunciator of the closed channel will be displayed on the front panel along with normal
readings. Selecting a different channel from the one that is presently closed will cause the closed
channel to open and allow a settling time before closing the selected channel.

Channel relays will be closed according to the presently selected function. If a four-wire
function is selected, both the selected channel relay and the matching relay pair will be closed.
Fixed four-pole relay pairs are:

• 1 and 6 (not available for Model 2001-TCSCAN)

• 2 and 7

• 3 and 8

• 4 and 9

• 5 and 10

Pressing the OPEN key will immediately open any closed scanner card channel or channel
pair for four-wire resistance.

Measurement Options 3-21

Fi

12

F

3-22 Measurement Options

Stepping and scanning trigger model additions

The trigger model presented in “Trigger operations” earlier in this section has some

additional capabilities when stepping or scanning. These are outlined below:

• Timer — With this control source, event detection is immediately satisf ed on the initial
pass. Each subsequent detection is satisf ed when the programmed timer interval (up to
99H:99M:99.99S) elapses.

• Reading counter — For both stepping and scanning, the reading count can be entered
from SHIFT-CONFIG. (This is referred to as the trigger counter over the bus.) The
reading counter can bypass the idle state. Operation will wait until the programmed
control source event occurs.

• Channel counter — For scanning, the scan list length (maximum channel less minimum
channel) is used to bypass the control source allowing a specif ed number of device
actions to occur. (This counter is referred to as the sample counter over the bus.)

These additional blocks are shown in the trigger models of Figure 3-12 and Figure 3-13. Uses
of the timer control source, reading counter, and channel counter are shown in the scanning
examples later in this section.

gure 3-

ront panel triggering

with stepping

Control

Source

Immediate

External

Timer

Idle

Event

Detection

Delay

Device

Action

Yes

No

More

Readings

?

Output
Trigger

Reading

Count

(Trigger Counter)

Fi

13

F

Measurement Options 3-23

gure 3-

ront panel triggering

with scanning

Using SHIFT-CONFIG to configure stepping and scanning

Control

Source

Immediate

External

Timer

Idle

Yes

Event

Detection

Yes

Delay

Device
Action

No

More

Readings

?

Output
Trigger

No

More

Channels

?

Reading

Count

(Trigger Counter)

Scan List

Length

(Sample Counter)

Using the SHIFT-CONFIG key combination, you can select internal or external scanning, the

minimum and maximum channels in the scan list, the time between scans, and the reading count.

To configure stepping or scanning, perform the foll wing:

1. Select the desired measurement function.

2. Press the SHIFT-CONFIG keys to access the step/scan conf guration.

3. Select the type of scan (INTernal or EXTernal) by using the ▲ and ▼ keys and pressing
ENTER.

4. Select the f rst channel in the scan list (MINimum CHANnel) by using the , , ▲,
and ▼ keys and pressing ENTER.

5. Select the last channel in the scan list (MAXimum CHANnel) and press ENTER to
confirm

6. The next selection is for timed scans. This is the Timer control source in the trigger
model. It sets a user-specified interval for starting scans. If you choose timed scans, the
Model 2010 prompts for a time interval:

00H:00M:00.000S

Use the , , ▲, and ▼ keys to select a time interval and press ENTER to conf rm.

Fi

14

I

3-24 Measurement Options

7. Next, you are prompted for a reading count (RDG CNT). This can be less than, equal to,
or greater than the scan list length (up to 1024). It is the number of readings that will be
stored in the buffer. The effects of these choices are further described in the scanning
examples.

8. Press ENTER when f nished to return to the normal display. Note that scanned readings
are always stored in the buffer, up to the setting for RDG CNT.

Scanning examples

The following examples demonstrate the use of reading count, timed scans, delay, and

external scanning.

Counters

One of the conf guration options for stepping and scanning is the reading count. The example

in Figure 3-14 shows how different settings of RDG CNT affect these operations.

gure 3-

nternal scanning
example with reading
count option

STEP
10 channel closures
10 output triggers

SCAN
10 channel closures
1 output triggers

RECALL
10 Readings

SHIFT-CONFIG

TYPE: INT
MIN CHAN: 1
MAX CHAN: 10
TIMER? OFF

0010 0002

RDG CNT:

0020

STEP
20 channel closures
20 output triggers

SCAN
10 channel closures (x2)
2 output triggers

RECALL
20 Readings

Note: "Factory setup" on the
Model 2010 is assumed.

STEP
2 channel closures
2 output triggers

SCAN
10 channel closures
1 output triggers

RECALL
2 Readings

Measurement Options 3-25

• With a reading count (0010) equal to the scan list length (10), a step operation
consecutively closes ten channels and sends an output trigger after each channel. A scan
operation also consecutively closes ten channels but sends an output trigger only at the
end of the scan.

• With a reading count (0020) greater than the scan list length (10), stepping yields 20
channel closures and 20 output triggers. Scanning also goes through the scan list twice
but sends an output trigger only at the end of each scan.

• With a reading count (0002) less than the scan list length (10), stepping yields two
channel closures and output triggers. Scanning goes through the entire scan list and
sends an output trigger but only two readings are stored.

NOTE If the reading count divided by the scan list length is not an integer, it is rounded up.

For example, if the reading count is 15 and the scan list length is 10, there will be two
output triggers for scanning.

The differences between stepping and scanning counters for bus commands are summarized

in Table 3-3.

Table 3-3

Bus commands parameters for stepping and scanning counters

Operation :SAMPle:COUNt :TRIGger:COUNt

STEP 1 reading count

SCAN scan list length (reading count) / (scan list length)

3-26 Measurement Options

Timing

Another conf guration option for stepping and scanning is the timing of channel closures. The
example in Figure 3-15 shows how different settings of TIMER and DELAY affect these
operations. These are the timer control source and the delay block shown in the trigger models
in Figure 3-12 and Figure 3-13.

• With the timer ON and set to f ve seconds and delay set to AUTO, channels are stepped
through at fi e second intervals with an output trigger after each closure. A scan
operation yields ten channels scanned immediately with an output trigger at the end of
the scan.

• With the timer OFF and the delay set to MANual for f ve seconds, stepping and scanning
through the channels is timed the same. The difference is in the number of output
triggers, with stepping sending a trigger after each channel closure and scanning sending
a trigger at the end of the scan.

When using both the timer and delay parameters, the timer is not started until after the delay.
For example, if the timer is two minutes and the delay is ten seconds, the timer is not started until
ten seconds after pressing SCAN. Each successive scan will occur at 2:10.0, 4:10.0, etc.

If the total delay time per scan is greater than or equal to the timer setting, the timer condition
is already satisf ed and is ignored.

Fi

15

I

Measurement Options 3-27

gure 3-

nternal scanning
example with timer and
delay options

SHIFT-CONFIG

TYPE:INT
MIN CHAN: 1
MAX CHAN: 10

TIMER?

TIMER? ON
00H:00M:05.000S

RDG CNT: 0010

SCAN
10 channel closures
1 output trigger

STEP
10 channel closures
at 5-second intervals
10 output triggers

RECALL
10 readings

OFF

ON

Note: "Factory setup" on the
Model 2010 is assumed.

RDG CNT: 0010

DELAY: MAN
00H:00M:05.000S

STEP
10 channel closures
at 5-second intervals
10 output triggers

SCAN
10 channel closures
at 5-second intervals
1 output trigger

RECALLL
10 readings

3-28 Measurement Options

External scanning

The example in Figure 3-16 shows the front panel operations to conf gure an external scan.
The trigger and signal connections were shown previously in “Trigger operations”. Both
instrument setups assume factory defaults. Set the Model 2010 for the desired measurement
function.

1

On the Model 7001 Switch System, enter a scan list of channels 1 to 10 on card 1.

2

Also on the Model 7001, conf gure the instrument for Trigger Link triggers and one
scan of ten channels.

3

On the Model 2010 Multimeter, configure an xternal scan of the f rst ten channels.

4

Set the Model 2010 for external triggers by pressing EXT TRIG. The display will be
dashes.

5

Press STEP or SCAN on the Model 2010. The asterisk and STEP or SCAN
annunciator will light.

6

Press STEP on the Model 7001 to start channel closures.

7

After the scan, you can recall ten readings from the Model 2010 buffer.

NOTE When using an external thermocouple scanner card and channel 1 as a reference, the

Model 2010 only recognizes channel 1 when a step or scan is performed. If using a
Model 7001 or 7002 to close channel 1 manually, the Model 2010 will not interpret
that channel as the reference junction without a step or scan operation.

Fi

16

E

Measurement Options 3-29

gure 3-

xternal scanning example

with Model 7001

Model 7001

(from "reset setup")

1

SCAN CHANNELS 1!1-1!10

2

CONFIGURE SCAN
CHAN-CONTROL
CHANNEL-SPACING
TRIGLINK
ASYNCHRONOUS
CHAN-COUNT
10
SCAN-CONTROL
SCAN-COUNT
1

6

STEP

Model 2010

(from "factory setup")

3

SHIFT-CONFIG
TYPE:EXT
MIN CHAN: 001
MAX CHAN: 010
TIMER? OFF
RDG CNT: 0010
ENTER

4

EX TRIG

5

STEP or SCAN

7

RECALL (10 readings)
, , ,
EXIT

3-30 Measurement Options

System operations

The Model 2010 has other front panel operations. Saving and restoring setup information is
described in Section 2. Selecting the remote interface and language is covered in Section 4.

Self-test

The TEST selections are used as diagnostic tools to isolate problems within the Model 2010.
Information on using these test procedures is included in the Model 2010 Service Manual.

Calibration

The CAL selections are used to view the calibration date and next due date, to perform
calibration, and to view the number of times calibration has been performed. Some of the items
are password-protected to prevent unintended changing of calibration constants.

To view the calibration dates, press SHIFT-CAL. Press ENTER at the DATES prompt. The
first date is the last time calibration was performed. The NDUE date is the calibration due date.

Running calibration is password-protected. Refer to the Model 2010 Service Manual for
details.

To view the calibration count, press ENTER at the COUNT prompt.

4

Remote Oper-

ation

4

Remote

Operation

4-2 Remote Operation

Introduction

This section includes the following information:

• Selecting an interface

• Selecting a language

• RS-232 operation

• GPIB bus operation and reference

• Status structure

• Trigger model (GPIB operation)

• Programming syntax

• Common commands

Selecting an interface

The Model 2010 multimeter supports two built-in remote interfaces:

• GPIB bus

• RS-232 interface

You can use only one interface at a time. The factory interface selection is the GPIB bus. You
can select the interface only from the front panel. The interface selection is stored in non-volatile
memory; it does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

RS-232

Before you select a remote interface, consider the programming language you want to use.

NOTE Changing the interface (GPIB to RS-232 or RS-232 to GPIB) will clear the data

buffer.

You can connect a controller to the RS-232 interface. Some considerations for selecting the
RS-232 interface are:

• You must define the baud rate, enable or disable software handshake XON/XOF.

• You can only use the SCPI programming language with the RS-232 interface.

To select RS-232 as the remote interface, perform the following:

1. Access the RS-232 conf guration by pressing SHIFT then RS232.
You see: RS232: OFF

2. Move to the on/off selection by pressing the key.
You see the OFF selection blinking.

3. Turn on the RS-232 interface by toggling the selection to ON using the ▼ or ▲ key and
press ENTER.

You can exit the configuration menu by pressing EXIT.

GPIB bus

The GPIB bus is the IEEE-488 interface. You must select a unique address for the Model 2010
multimeter. The address is displayed when the multimeter is turned on. At the factory, the
address is set to 16.

Since GPIB is the interface selection def ned by the factory, only follow these steps to select
the GPIB interface if you have been previously using the RS-232 remote programming interface:

1. Select the GPIB option by pressing SHIFT then GPIB.
You see: GPIB: OFF.

2. Move to the on/off selection by pressing the key.
You see the OFF selection blinking.

3. Turn on the GPIB interface by toggling the selection to ON using the ▼ or ▲ key and
press ENTER.

Turning off the RS-232 interface automatically selects GPIB as the remote programming

interface.

Selecting a language

Choose one of the following languages to program the Model 2010 multimeter:

Remote Operation 4-3

• SCPI (Signal Oriented Measurement Commands)

• Keithley Models 196/199 Digital Multimeter

NOTE The 196/199 language is intended for use only over the IEEE-488 bus. Using front

panel controls with this language may cause erratic operation. In this case, results
cannot be guaranteed.

The factory sets the language selection as SCPI.

You only can select a programming language from the front panel. The language selection is
stored in non-volatile memory, which means it does not change when power has been off or after
a remote interface reset.

Table 4-1 shows the languages supported by the two available interfaces:

Table 4-1

Language support

Language GPIB RS-232

SCPI
Keithley Models 196/199

The language you select determines the remote operations allowed.

Ye s
Ye s

Ye s
No

4-4 Remote Operation

To select a programming language, follow these steps:

1. Access the GPIB conf guration options by pressing SHIFT then GPIB.

2. Select the language conf guration option by pressing the ENTER key twice.

3. Move to the language selection f eld by pressing the key.

4. Select the programming language you want by pressing the ▼ or ▲ key until you see the

5. Confirm your selection by pressing ENTER. The multimeter returns to the measurement

SCPI

Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) is fully supported by the GPIB

and RS-232 interfaces. Always calibrate the Model 2010 Multimeter using the SCPI language.

You see GPIB:ON with GPIB blinking.

You see: LANG:<name>.

appropriate language.

The menu scrolls through SCPI and 199/6 (Keithley Models 196/199).

mode.

Keithley Models 196/199 Digital Multimeter

The Model 2010 Multimeter implements virtually all commands available in the Keithley
Models 196/199 Digital Multimeter, except for the self-test and calibration commands. The
commands are listed in Appendix D.

See the Models 196/199 Digital Multimeter User’s Manuals for more information about
remote programming.

RS-232 operation

Sending and receiving data

The RS-232 interface transfers data using eight data bits, one stop bit, and no parity. Make

sure the controller you connect to the multimeter also uses these settings.

You can break data transmissions by sending a ^C or ^X character string to the multimeter.

This clears any pending operation and discards any pending output.

Selecting baud rate

The baud rate is the rate at which the Model 2010 Multimeter and the programming terminal

communicate. Choose one of the following available rates:

• 19.2k

• 9600

• 4800

• 2400

• 1200

• 600

• 300

Remote Operation 4-5

The factory selected baud rate is 9600.

Make sure that the programming terminal that you are connecting to the Model 2010
Multimeter can support the baud rate you selected. Both the multimeter and the other device
must be conf gured for the same baud rate. To select a baud rate, follow these steps:

1. Access the RS-232 conf guration by pressing SHIFT then RS232.
You see: RS232: ON (assuming you have already selected the RS-232 interface).

2. Go to the baud rate f eld by pressing the ▼ key.
You see BAUD:<rate>.

3. Access the baud rate list by pressing the key. You see the rate selection blinking.

4. Scroll through the available rates by pressing the ▼ and ▲ key until you findthe rate you
want.

5. Confirm your selection by pressing ENTER. The multimeter prompts you to def ne
signal handshaking. Continue for information about handshaking. You can return to
measurement mode by pressing EXIT.

4-6 Remote Operation

Selecting signal handshaking (flow control)

Signal handshaking between the controller and the instrument allows the two devices to
communicate to each other regarding being ready or not ready to receive data. The Model 2010
does not support hardware handshaking (f ow control).

Software fl w control is in the form of X__ON and X__OFF characters and is enabled when
XonXoFF is selected from the RS232 FLOW menu. When the input queue of the Model 2010
becomes more than 3/4 full, the instrument issues an X_OFF command. The control program
should respond to this and stop sending characters until the Model 2010 issues the X_ON, which
it will do once its input buffer has dropped below half-full. The Model 2010 recognizes X_ON
and X_OFF sent from the controller. An X_OFF will cause the Model 2010 to stop outputting
characters until it sees an X_ON. Incoming commands are processed after the <CR> character
is received from the controller.

If NONE is the selected f ow control, then there will be no signal handshaking between the
controller and the Model 2010. Data will be lost if transmitted before the receiving device is
ready.

Perform the following steps to set f ow control:

1. Access the RS-232 conf guration by pressing SHIFT and then RS232. You see: RS 232:

2. Go to the fl w control field by using the ▲ or ▼ key. You see FLOW: <control>.

3. Access the f ow control options by pressing the key. You see the fl w control

4. Use the ▲ or ▼ key to display the desired f ow control (NONE or XonXoFF) and press

ON (assuming you have already selected the RS-232 interface).

selection blinking.

ENTER. You will then be prompted to set the terminator. Continue for information about
the terminator. You can return to the measurement mode by pressing EXIT.

Setting terminator

The Model 2010 can be conf gured to terminate each program message that it transmits to the
controller with any combination of <CR> and <LF>. Perform the following steps to set the
terminator:

1. Access the RS-232 conf guration by pressing SHIFT and then RS232.
You see: RS 232: ON (assuming you have already selected the RS-232 interface).

2. Go to the terminator f eld by using the ▲ or ▼ key.
You see TX TERM: <terminator>.

3. Access the terminator options by pressing the key.
You see the terminator selection blinking.

4. Use the ▲ or ▼ key to display the desired terminator (LF, CR, CRLF, or LFCR) and
press ENTER. The instrument will return to the measurement mode.

RS-232 connections

Fi

1

R

The RS-232 serial port can be connected to the serial port of a controller (i.e., personal
computer) using a straight through RS-232 cable terminated with DB-9 connectors. Do not use
a null modem cable. The serial port uses the transmit (TXD), receive (RXD), and signal ground
(GND) lines of the RS-232 standard. It does not use the hardware handshaking lines CTS and
RTS. Figure 4-1 shows the rear panel connector for the RS-232 interface, and Table 4-2 shows
the pinout for the connector.

If your computer uses a DB-25 connector for the RS-232 interface, you will need a cable or
adapter with a DB-25 connector on one end and a DB-9 connector on the other, wired straight
through (not null modem).

Remote Operation 4-7

gure 4-

S-232 interface

connector

54321

9876

RS232

Rear Panel Connector

Table 4-2

RS-232 connector pinout

Pin number Description

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

1

CTS and RTS signals are not used.

no connection
TXD, transmit data
RXD, receive data
no connection
GND, signal ground
no connection
CTS, clear to send
RTS, ready to send
no connection

1

1

Error messages

See Appendix B for RS-232 error messages.

Fi

2

I

4-8 Remote Operation

GPIB bus operation and reference

Introduction

The following paragraphs contain information about connecting to and using the GPIB

(IEEE-488) bus.

GPIB bus standards

The GPIB bus is the IEEE-488 instrumentation data bus with hardware and programming

standards originally adopted by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) in

1975. The Model 2010 multimeter conforms to these standards:

• IEEE-488-1987.1

• IEEE-488-1987.2

This standard def nes a syntax for sending data to and from instruments, how an instrument
interprets this data, what registers should exist to record the state of the instrument, and a group
of common commands.

• SCPI 1991 (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments)

GPIB bus connections

gure 4-

EEE-488 connector

This standard def nes a command language protocol. It goes one step farther than
IEEE-488-1987.2 and def nes a standard set of commands to control every programmable aspect
of an instrument.

To connect the Model 2010 Multimeter to the GPIB bus, use a cable equipped with standard
IEEE-488 connectors as shown inFigure 4-2.

To allow many parallel connections to one instrument, stack the connector. Two screws are
located on each connector to ensure that connections remain secure. Current standards call for
metric threads, which are identif ed with dark-colored screws. Earlier versions had different
screws, which were silver-colored. Do not use these types of connectors on the Model 2010
Multimeter, because it is designed for metric threads.

Figure 4-3 shows a typical connecting scheme for a multi-unit test system.