9200 Series, 300 MHz Programmable Pulse
Generator
Main Features
•
Variable edge pulses (1 nsec to 1 msec) at rates to 250 MHz
• Fast 300 psec edges to 300 MHz
• Wide output swings to 32 V at pulse rates to 50 MHz
• Modular Architecture
• DC amplitude accuracy 1%
• Normal and complementary outputs
• 5 year warranty
Modular Architecture - Achieves an exceptionally wide range of pulse characteristics. Output modules
can be mixed in any combination within the mainframe, making future upgrades as simple as plugging
in a new module.
UNPARALLELED ACCURACY AND PRECISION
The 9210 features 10 psec resolution with ±(0.5% + 200 psec) timing accuracy. DC amplitude
accuracy is 1%. Accuracy is guaranteed by the built-in calibration system. Automatic load
compensation delivers true programmed amplitudes even with non 50 Ohm loads.
EASY, INTUITIVE OPERATION -
Setting the operating parameters couldn't be easier! A bright CRT display shows all related settings at
a glance. Pulse parameters and trigger settings are accessible with a single key stro ke. Individual
parameters are selectable from on-screen system or front-panel se lect keys. Displays automatically
match installed modules. An on-screen graphical icon shows the pulse param eter being affected and
setting conflicts are highlighted to prevent setup errors. Up to 16 setup configurations can be stored
and recalled from non-volatile memory.
CONTROL WITHOUT COMPROMISE -
Choose the data entry method you prefer, digital or analog. Use the full-featured keypad to enter
parameter values with digital precision and speed.
Use the concentric knob if you prefer the interactive analog feel. The analog knob provides both
coarse range selection and vernier control, with key-selectable vernier sensitivity.
The 9210 is also fully GPIB compatible, with an easy-to-understand command set and syntax. A builtin command monitor aids in rapid debugging of your test programs.
PLUG-IN MODULARITY
The 9210's pulse output characteristics are determined by the selection of one of three available
output modules. The mainframe performs all timing, triggering, interface, and control functions. in this
way, the 9210 can meet a wide range of pulse generation applications... from the large amplitude
requirements of analog device characterization to the sub-nanosecond transition times required by
today's fast digital IC's.
STRAIGHTFORWARD, VERSATILE CONTROLS
1. Display: Large blue keys select the display of pulse, triggering, or control parameters for
adjustment.
2. Select: the touch-screen CRT selects individual parameters (like pulse width) for adjustment.
3. Enter: Parameter values can be quickly entered using the numeric keypad, the 1-2-5- seq uence
rotary ring, or the fine analog rotary control knob.
Model 9214
300 MHz, 300 ps output
module
• 300 MHz pulse
repetition rate
• 300 psec leading
edge
• 5 volt swing into 50
Ohms
• Complementary
outputs
•
•
Model 9211
250 MHz, 1 nsec output
module
• 250 MHz, 1nsec
output module
• Variable edged...
1nsec to 1 msec
• 5 volt swing into 50
Ohms
• Complementary
outputs
Model 9213
50 MHz, 16 volt output
module
• 50 MHz pulse
repetition rate
• Variable edges...
6.5 nsec to 95
msec
• 16 volt p-p output
into 50 Ohms
• 32 volts into high
impedance
HIGHEST PRECISION & ACCURACY
The 9210 uses a 12-bit ADC and a high resolution TDC to make nearly 1000 calibration
measurements to guarantee timing accuracies of <0.5% and edge placement resolution to 10 psec.
AUTOMATIC LOAD COMPENSATION
Test fixtures and jigs can often introduce slight variations in load impedance. The load compensation
capability of the 9210 delivers the programmed pulse level to any load from 47 Ohms to 1M Ohm.
CONSTANT PHASE MODE
Constant Phase Mode on the 9210 maintains a constant phase relationship between two channels,
even when varying the repetition rate during simultaneous clock and data simulation.
GPIB PROGRAMMABLE
Fully GPIB (IEEE 488.2) compatible with an easy-to-understand, plain English command set and
syntax. A built-in GPIB command monitor aids in rapid debugging of automated test programs.
5 YEAR WARRANTY, BY DESIGN
The 9210 Pulse Generator has a unique five year warranty. It's not an extended warranty... it's the
standard warranty. The 9210 is guaranteed to meet its specs, continuously and reliably, for five full
years. This type of warranty is made possible by designing in plenty of margin in the 9210's
components and specifications. Component and connector counts are low, cooling is generously
provided, and automated testing routines are extensive.
ALL THIS AT A PRICE YOU CAN AFFORD -
Compare the cost of the Model 9210 with that of comparable instruments. Even with all its innovative
features and high performance, the Model 9210 is competitively priced.
Functional Description
The LeCroy Series 9210 Pulse Generator is a high performance programmable pulse generator which
uses a flexible modular architecture. The system can be performance matched to a wide range of
pulse generator applications by the selection of the appropriate plug-in output modules. The modular
architecture allows the pulse generator to be re-configured to match changing needs at minim um cost.
The following three output modules are available, offering picosecond edges, high output swings, and
wide rise time variability.
Model 9211 - 250 MHz Variable Edge Output Module
Model 9213 - 50 MHz Variable Edge Output Module
Model 9214 - 300 MHz 300 psec Edge Output Module
Plug-ins can be used in any combination and changed easily at any time. Pulse parameters for each
output module, including delay, width, and transition times, are independently adjustable. The modules
share a common timebase and trigger mode.
The timebase in the 9210 mainframe offers six operating modes including: normal (free run) mode;
four triggered modes including single, burst, gated, and external width; and double pulse mode.
The unit can be triggered by an external signal, front panel manual push-button, or via GPIB. External
trigger threshold is user-programmable either manually or with an automatic trigger level adjustment.
In externally triggered modes the external trigger frequency is measured by an internal frequency
counter and displayed on the CRT.
An output trigger pulse, with programmable or preset TTL or ECL compatible levels, is available for
synchronization.
The 9210 Series sets a new standard for accuracy and precision. It achieves 5 mV amplitude
resolution with 1% DC accuracy. Its time resolution is 10 psec with a timebase accuracy of ±(0.5% +
200 psec). Internal self-calibration using a built-in frequency counter and 12-bit analog-to-digital
converter are combined with other accuracy related features, such as load compensation, to obtain
these high levels of accuracy.
The front panel operation of the 9210 has been designed for intuitive error free setup. The friendly
user interface is centered on a bright CRT display which shows all related setup parameters at a
glance. The menu based display adapts automatically to match the installed output modules. A
graphical icon is included to show the parameter being adjusted. Settings conflicts are highli ghted and
help messages appear on screen. Settings are changed by means of either a numeric keypad for
precise numeric entry or by means of an analog knob for continuous variation of parameters.
CRT touch-screen response allows the user to set and change parameters through the use of optical
soft keys.
For added operational convenience, alternate settings formats can be selected. These include: duty
cycle or pulse width, frequency or period, delay or phase, amplitude/median and amplitude/offset or
Vhigh/Vlow, slew rate or rise time - all key selectable.
Fully programmable via GPIB, the 9210 pulse generator complies with the IEEE-488.2 interface
standard. It uses a self-documenting, English-language based command set and features high-speed
command execution.
Programmable Pulse Generators
The front panel operation of the 9210 has been designed for intuitive error free setup. The friendly
user interface is centered on a bright CRT display which shows all related setup parameters at a
glance. The menu based display adapts automatically to match the installed output modules. A
graphical icon is included to show the parameter being adjusted. Settings conflicts are highli ghted and
help messages appear on screen. Settings are changed by means of either a numeric keypad for
precise numeric entry or by means of an analog knob for continuous variation of parameters.
CRT touch-screen response allows the user to set and change parameters through the use of optical
soft keys.
For added operational convenience, alternate settings formats can be selected. These include: duty
cycle or pulse width, frequency or period, delay or phase, amplitude/median and amplitude/offset or
Vhigh/Vlow, slew rate or rise time - all key selectable.
Fully programmable via GPIB, the 9210 pulse generator complies with the IEEE-488.2 interface
standard. It uses a self-documenting, English-language based command set and features high-speed
command execution.
Important Note: At least one output module (9211, 9213, or 9214) must be installed in the 9210 Pulse
Generator Mainframe in order to obtain a pulse output.
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS
Defined at 50% amplitude points and minimum transition times.
NOTE: The minimum values listed below refer to the mainframe only, and may not be achi evable with
all output modules.
Pulse period: 3.33 nsec to 450 msec.
Resolution: The greater of 0.1% of value or 10 psec.
Accuracy: ±(0.5% of value + 0.2 nsec) from 3.33 nsec to 450 msec.
RMS jitter: < or equal to 0.035% (350 ppm) of value + 35 psec.
Temperature coefficient: < 250 ppm/°C typical with temperature compensation ON.
Frequency: Alternate format for period. Settable from 300 MHz to 2.2 Hz with 0.1% resolution.
Pulse width: 1.0 nsec to 450 msec.
For period setting< or equal to 8.0 nsec; max. width = period -0.8 nsec.
For period setting > 8.0 nsec; max. width = period -2.9 nsec.
Resolution: The greater of 0.1% of value or 10 psec.
Accuracy: ±(0.5% of value + 0.3 nsec transition time error) from 1.6 nsec to 450 msec (see output
module data for transition time accuracy specifications). RMS jitter:< or equal to 0.035% of value + 35
psec.
Temperature coefficient:
< 250 ppm/°C typical with temperature compensation ON.
Duty cycle: Alternate format for width. Settable from 1% to 99% in 0.01% steps. In this format, width
is controlled as a percentage of period.
Pulse delay: 0 nsec to 450 msec, measured from leading edge of trigger out to beginning of leading
edge of pulse output (relative to fixed offset).
For period setting< or equal to 8.0 nsec; max. delay = period -2.6 nsec.
For period setting > 8.0 nsec; max. delay = period -4.7 nsec.
Resolution: The greater of 0.1% of value or 10 psec.
Accuracy: ±(0.5% of value + 1.0 nsec).
RMS jitter:< or equal to 0.035% of value + 35 psec.
Temperature coefficient: < (250 ppm + 50 psec)/°C typical with temperature compensation ON.
Match between output modules of the same type: 1.2 nsec.
Phase: Alternate format for delay. Settable from 0° to 359.9° with 0.1° resolution. In this format, delay
= phase/360 x period.
Double pulse delay: 4 nsec to 450 msec.
Resolution: The greater of 0.1% of value or 10 psec.
Accuracy: ±(0.5% of value + 0.3 nsec).
RMS jitter:< or equal to 0.035% of value + 35 psec.
Temperature coefficient: < 250 ppm/°C typical with temperature compensation ON.
INPUTS AND OUTPUTS
External Input
Input impedance: 10 kW or 50 W ±5%, selectable.
Input range: ±5 V into 50 W or ±20 V into 10 kW.
Minimum detectable amplitude: 200 mV.
Threshold range and resolution: ±2.5 V adjustable in 20 mV steps.
Threshold level accuracy: ±100 mV.
Max. input frequency: 300 MHz.
Min. pulse width: 1.5 nsec.
Min. input slew rate: 10 V/sec.
Edge selection: Positive, negative, neither edge (disabled).
Trigger Output
Output levels: Nominal 1 V negative swing from base level into 50 W. Base level adjustable over ±1.5
V range with 20 mV resolution. (Into Hi-Z: amplitude = -2 V. Base level of ±3 V, 40 mV resolution.)
Output impedance: 50 W ±5%.
Protection: Protected against application of ±10 V.
Delay from trigger input: 21 nsec typical.
Width: Dependent on trigger mode.
Normal mode:
Period< or equal to 7.2 nsec:
Width = 1.8 nsec typical. 7.2 nsec < period < 50 nsec:
3.6 nsec< or equal to width< or equal to 7.2 nsec:
Period 50 nsec:
Width = 25 nsec typical.
Single mode:
Pulse width setting< or equal to 40 nsec:
Trigger output width = 1.8 nsec typical.
Pulse width setting > 40 nsec:
Trigger output width = 25 nsec typical.
Burst mode:
Width = period x (burst count - 1).
Gate and ext. width modes:
Trigger output width X trigger input width.
PROGRAMMABILITY
All generator functions are programmable over GPIB. Command set conforms with IEEE 488.2-1987.
TRIGGERING MODES
Normal: Continuous pulse stream. Trigger output for each pulse output.
Single: Each external trigger input generates a single output pulse. One trigger output for each trigger.
Gated: Signal at external input enables period generator. The first output pulse is synchronized with
the gate's leading edge. Last pulse is allowed to complete. One trigger output for each gate input; 20
nsec retrigger (dead) time between gate inputs.
Burst: Each external trigger input generates a pre-programmed n umber of pulses (3 to 4095).
Minimum time between two bursts is 50 nsec. One trigger output for each trigger.
External width: The signal at the external input is reproduced with programmable transition times and
output levels. Trigger output for each external trigger.
OPERATING FEATURES
Manual trigger: Front panel push-button generates an external trigger input. Each push provides one
trigger pulse in single and burst modes. Output remains active as long as button is pressed in gate
and external width modes.
Double pulse mode: When double pulse is set to ON, two pulses are produced for each trigger. The
first pulse begins as soon as possible after the trigger (approximately the minimum pulse delay time).
The delay parameter now specifies the time from the leading edge of the first pulse to the leading
edge of the second pulse. One trigger output occurs for each pulse pair. Compatible with all trigger
modes except external width.
ADDITIONAL CAPABILITIES
Limit: When enabled, the maximum high and low level settability of the pulse outputs is limited to
protect the device under test.
Setups: 16 setup configurations can be stored and recalled using the store and recall key s on the
front panel.
Change format: Enables the alternate representation of a parameter or enables an alternate mode of
operation. Examples are amplitude/base or amplitude/median in lieu of Vhigh/Vlow, duty cycle instead
of width, phase instead of delay, frequency instead of period, slew rate as opposed to transition time.
ENVIRONMENTAL
The following specifications apply to the 9210 mainframe and to all output modules (9211, 9213 and
9214).
Storage temperature: -40°C to 70°C (temp above 40 ° C may degrade battery life).
Operating temperature: 5°C to 40°C at rated specifications, operational from 0°C to 50°C.
Temperature & self-calibration: Generator and output modules will meet specifications over a ±5°C
range without repeating self-calibration.
Humidity range: < 95% R.H from 5°C to 40°C.
POWER
115/220 VAC ±20%; 48 - 448 Hz, 300 Watts max. (180 typical).
MISCELLANEOUS
Battery backup life: 10 years typical.
The following specifications apply to the 9210 mainframe and to all output modules (9211, 9213 and
9214).
Recalibration interval: 1 year.
Warm-up time (to meet specs):
15 min, after which a new self-calibration must be performed.
MAINFRAME
Weight: 23 lbs. net, 34 lbs. shipping.
Dimensions: (HWD) 5 x 17 x 21 inches.
OUTPUT MODULES
Weight: 2 lbs. net, 4 lbs. shipping.
Dimensions: (HWD) 4.6 x 2.4 x 14.7 inches.
9211 - 250 MHz Output Module Specifications
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS
Maximum rep rate: 250 MHz.
Minimum pulse width: < or equal to 2.0 nsec.
Fixed delay from trigger out: 13 nsec ±4 nsec.
OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS
Specified with both outputs terminated in 50.00 W. (Ratings in { } are when driving an open circuit.)
Outputs: Normal and complementary polarity.
Short circuit output current: ±260 mA.
DC output source impedance: 50 ±1.0 W.
Output protection: Protected against application of < or equal to ±15 V.
OUTPUT LEVELS
High level: -4.95 V to +5.00 V
{-9.90 V to +10.00 V}
Low level: -5.00 V to +4.95 V
{-10.00 V to +9.90 V}
Output voltage range: ±5 Volts {±10 Volts}; max. amplitude of 5 V {10 V}; min. amplitude of 50 mV
{100 mV}.
Resolution: 5 mV {10 mV}.
Level Accuracy
Normal output: ±(1% of programmed value +1% of amplitude +40 mV) into 50.00 W.
Accuracy with load comp: The same accuracy as stated above will be maintained for user supplied
load of 47 Ohms to 1 M Ohm when load compensation feature is enabled.
Complementary output: ±(1% of programmed value +3% of amplitude +40 mV) into 50.00 W.
Accuracy with load comp: ±(3% of setting times the ratio of the load on the complemented output to
the load on the normal output). Measurements for the load compensating correction factors are made
on the normal output.
PULSE PERFORMANCE
Variable transition times: (10% to 90%):
Leading edge:< or equal to 1.2 nsec min (1 nsec typical) to 10 msec.
Trailing edge:< or equal to 1.2 nsec min (1 nsec typical) to 10 msec.
Ranges: 7 ranges of 25:1. Minimum lead to trail dynamic range = 2.5:1, except 2:1 at first range break
(see graph below).
Resolution: The greater of 1% or 100 psec.
Accuracy: ±(10% of value + 300 psec).
Linearity: ±3% typical (10 - 90%) for transition times > 50 nsec.
Slew rate mode: Settable down to 0.1 V/msec with 0.1% resolution and ±10% accuracy (separately
settable for leading and trailing edge). Max. rate determined by amplitude setting & transition time
limits stated above.
Overshoot and ringing: The greater of ±8% of amplitude or ±10 mV.
Settling time:< or equal to 10 nsec to 2% of amplitude change at fastest transition times.
Normal to complementary output skew: 200 psec max at fastest transition times (50 psec typical).
MODULE CONTROLS
The following controls are located on the front panel of the output module.
Invert: Inverts normal output pulse levels. Quiescent and active levels exchanged.
Disable: Output circuitry is disconnected via relay.
Display channel: Instructs mainframe to select and display the settings parameters for this module.
9213 - 50 MHz, 16 V
Output Module Specifications
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS
Maximum rep rate: 50 MHz.
Minimum pulse width:< or equal to 10.0 nsec.
Fixed delay from trigger out: 13 nsec ±4 nsec.
OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS
Specified with output terminated in 50.00 W. (Ratings in { } are when driving an open circuit.)
Output: Normal polarity.
Short circuit output current: ±200 mA.
DC output source impedance: 50 ±2.0 W.
Output protection: Protected against application of< or equal to ±40 V.
OUTPUT LEVELS
High level: -7.98 V to +8.00 V
{-15.96 V to +16.00 V}
Low level: -8.00 V to +7.98 V
{-16.00 V to +15.96 V}
Output voltage range: ±8 Volts {±16 Volts}; max. amplitude of 16 V {32 V}; min. amplitude of 20 mV
{40 mV}.
Resolution: 5 mV {10 mV}.
Level accuracy: ±(1% of programmed value +1% of amplitude +40 mV) into 50.00 W.
Accuracy with load comp: The same accuracy as stated above will be maintained for user supplied
load of 47 W to 1 MW when load compensation feature is enabled.
PULSE PERFORMANCE
Variable transition times (10% to 90%):
Leading edge:< or equal to 6.5 nsec to 95 msec.
Trailing edge:< or equal to 6.5 nsec to 95 msec.
Ranges: 8 ranges of 25:1. Minimum lead to trail dynamic range = 2.5:1 (except for lowest range, see
graph below).
Resolution: The greater of 1% or 100 psec.
Accuracy: ±(10% of value + 300 psec).
Linearity: ±3% typical (10-90%) for transition times > 100 nsec.
Slew rate mode: Settable down to 0.1 V/msec with 0.1% resolution and ±10% accuracy (separately
settable for leading and trailing edge). Max. rate determined by amplitude setting and transition time
limits stated above.
Overshoot and ringing: The greater of ±8% of amplitude or ±10 mV.
Settling time: < 50 nsec to 2% of amplitude change for amplitudes < or equal to 10 V or to 3% of
amplitude change for amplitudes > 10 V (at fastest transition times).
MODULE CONTROLS
The following controls are located on the front panel of the output module.
Invert: Inverts normal output pulse levels. Quiescent and active levels exchanged.
Disable: Output circuitry is disconnected via relay.
Display channel: Instructs mainframe to select and display the settings parameters for this module.
9214 - 300 MHz, 300 psec Output Module Specifications
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS
Maximum rep rate: 300 MHz.
Minimum pulse width: < or equal to 1.2 nsec .
Maximum pulse width:
For period setting < or equal to 8.0 nsec; max. width = period -1.4 nsec.
For period setting > 8.0 nsec; max. width = period -3.5 nsec.
Fixed delay from trigger out: 13 nsec ±4 nsec.
OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS
Specified with both outputs terminated in 50.00 W. (Ratings in { } are when driving an open circuit.)
Outputs: Normal and complementary polarity.
Short circuit output current:
±240 mA.
DC output source impedance:
50 ±1.0 W.
Output protection: Protected against application of < or equal to ±6 V.
OUTPUT LEVELS
High level: -4.50 V to +5.00 V
{-4.00 V to +5.00 V}
Low level: -5.00 V to +4.50 V
{-5.00 V to +4.00 V}
Output voltage range: ±5 Volts {±5 Volts} (amplitude will double into a high impedance u p to the 5 V
level limit). Max. amplitude of 5 V {10 V}. Min. amplitude of 500 mV {1 V}.
Resolution: 5 mV {10 mV}.
Level Accuracy
Normal output: ±(1% of programmed value +1% of amplitude +40 mV) into 50.00 W.
Accuracy with load comp: The same accuracy as stated above will be maintained for user supplied
load of 47 Ohms to 1 M Ohm when load compensation feature is enabled.
Complementary output: ±(1% of programmed value +3% of amplitude +40 mV) into 50.00 W.
Accuracy with load comp: ±(3% of setting times the ratio of the load on the complemented output to
the load on the normal output). Measurements for the load compensating correction factors are made
on the normal output.
PULSE PERFORMANCE
Minimum transition time:< or equal to 300 psec guaranteed (20% - 80%).
Overshoot and ringing: The greater of ±10% of amplitude or ±10 mV.
Settling time:< or equal to 10 nsec to 2% of amplitude change.
Normal to complemented output skew: 100 psec max. (25 psec typical).
MODULE CONTROLS
These controls are located on the front panel of the output module.
Invert: Inverts normal output pulse levels. Quiescent and active levels exchanged.
Disable: Output circuitry is disconnected via relay.
Display channel: Instructs mainframe to select and display the settings parameters for this module.
Models 9211, 9213 and 9214 plug-ins
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