Pico Communications 2104, 2105 User Manual

PicoScope 2104 & 2105

PC Oscilloscopes

User guide

PS2100044-1.0

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User GuideI

Table of Contents

1 Introduction

2 Product information

3 Technical reference

.............................................................................................1

1 Overview 2 Safety symbols 3 Safety warning 4 FCC notice 5 CE notice 6 Licence conditions 7 Trademarks 8 Warranty 9 Company details

.............................................................................................5

1 Minimum system requirements 2 Installation instructions 3 Specifications

.............................................................................................8

1 Driver 2 Driver error codes 3 Functions 4 Advanced features 5 Using different modes 6 Programming

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4 Troubleshooting

5 Glossary

Index

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.............................................................................................27

1 Software error codes

.............................................................................................28

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PS2100044-1.0

Introduction

1

1.1

1.2

Introduction

Overview

The PicoScope 2104 and 2105 PC Oscilloscopes are low-cost handheld instruments that are fully USB 2.0-capable and backwards-compatible with USB 1.1. There is no need for an additional power supply, as power is taken from the USB port.

With the PicoScope software, you can use your instrument as a PC Oscilloscope and spectrum analyser; and with the PicoLog software, you can use it as a data logger.

Each product pack contains the following items:

PicoScope 2104 or 2105 PC Oscilloscope Software CD Accessories kit Quick start guide

Please read the important information in this introductory section and then proceed to the Installation instructions.

Safety symbols

Warning Triangle

This symbol indicates that a safety hazard exists on the indicated connections if correct precautions are not taken. Ensure that you read all safety documentation associated with the product before using it.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

1.3

Safety warning

We strongly recommend that you read the general safety information below before using your PicoScope PC Oscilloscope for the first time. Safety protection built in to the equipment may cease to function if the equipment is used incorrectly. This could cause damage to your computer, or lead to injury to yourself and others.

Maximum input range

The PicoScope 2104 and 2105 PC oscilloscopes are designed to measure voltages in the range -20 V to +20 V and are protected against continuous or transient overvoltages of up to ±50 V. Any voltages in excess of ±50 V may cause permanent damage to the oscilloscope or to your computer.

Measurement category

PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes are rated for use in measurement category I (EN61010 CAT I), which covers measurements on circuits not connected to the mains. You must not use your PicoScope PC Oscilloscope to make measurements on any circuit directly connected to the mains, unless you use a purpose-built isolating probe rated for the appropriate voltage and measurement category.

Safety grounding

The PicoScope PC Oscilloscopes connect directly to the ground of a computer through the interconnecting cable provided.

1.4

As with most oscilloscopes, avoid connecting the ground input to any source other than ground. If in doubt, use a meter to check that there is no significant AC or DC voltage between the ground input of the oscilloscope and the point to which you intend to connect it. Failure to check may cause damage to your computer, or lead to injury to yourself and others.

You should assume that the product does not have a protective safety earth.

Repairs

PicoScope PC Oscilloscopes contain no user-serviceable parts. Repair or calibration of the unit requires specialised test equipment and must be performed only by Pico Technology. Spare probe tips are available from Pico Technology and its authorised distributors.

FCC notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

For safety and maintenance information see the safety warning.

Introduction

3

1.5

1.6

CE notice

The PicoScope 2104 and 2105 PC Oscilloscopes meet the intent of the EMC directive 89/336/EEC and have been designed to EN61326-1 (1997) Class A Emissions and Immunity standard.

The devices also meet the intent of the Low Voltage Directive and have been designed to meet the BS EN 61010-1:2001 IEC 61010-1:2001 (safety requirements for electrical equipment, control, and laboratory use) standard.

Licence conditions

The material contained in this release is licensed, not sold. Pico Technology Limited grants a licence to the person who installs this software, subject to the conditions listed below.

Access

The licensee agrees to allow access to this software only to persons who have been informed of these conditions and agree to abide by them.

Usage

The software in this release is for use only with Pico products or with data collected using Pico products.

Copyright

Pico Technology Limited claims the copyright of, and retains the rights to, all material (software, documents etc.) contained in this release. You may copy and distribute the entire release in its original state, but must not copy individual items within the release other than for backup purposes.

Liability

Pico Technology and its agents shall not be liable for any loss, damage or injury, howsoever caused, related to the use of Pico Technology equipment or software, unless excluded by statute.

Fitness for purpose

Because no two applications are the same, Pico Technology cannot guarantee that its equipment or software is suitable for a given application. It is your responsibility, therefore, to ensure that the product is suitable for your application.

Mission-critical applications

This software is intended for use on a computer that may be running other software products. For this reason, one of the conditions of the licence is that it excludes usage in mission-critical applications; for example, life-support systems.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

1.7

1.8

1.9

Trademarks

Delphi is a registered trademark of Borland Software Corporation. LabView is a registered trademark of National Instruments Corporation. Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Pico Technology Limited, PicoLog and PicoScope are internationally registered

trademarks.

VEE is a registered trademark of Agilent Technologies. Windows, Excel and Visual Basic are registered trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation.

Warranty

Pico Technology warrants upon delivery, and for a period of 24 months unless otherwise stated from the date of delivery, that the Goods will be free from defects in material and workmanship.

Pico Technology shall not be liable for a breach of the warranty if the defect has been caused by fair wear and tear, wilful damage, negligence, abnormal working conditions or failure to follow Pico Technology's spoken or written advice on the storage, installation, commissioning, use or maintenance of the Goods or (if no advice has been given) good trade practice; or if the Customer alters or repairs such Goods without the written consent of Pico Technology.

Company details

Address:

Interworld Electronics & Computers Inc. P.O. Box 1280 145 Tyee Drive, Suite 3120 Point Roberts, WA 98281

Phone:1-877-902-2979 Fax:1-877-FAX-IECI

Email:

Technical Support: Sales:sales@interworldna.com

Web site:

www.interworldna.com

Product information

5

2

2.1

Product information

Minimum system requirements

For the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope to operate, a computer with the minimum system requirements to run Windows or the following (whichever is the higher specification) is required:

Processor Pentium class processor or equivalent, minimum. Memory 32 MB minimum. Disk space 10 MB minimum. Operating system Microsoft Windows 98SE, ME, 2000 or XP. Ports USB 1.1 compliant port minimum. USB 2.0 compliant port

recommended. Must be connected direct to the port or a powered USB hub. Will not work on a passive hub.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

2.2

Installation instructions

Important Do not connect the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope to your PC until you have

installed the software.

Install the software by following the steps in the installation guide supplied with your oscilloscope. Connect the oscilloscope's USB cable to the PC. There is no need for an additional power supply as power is drawn from the USB port.

Checking the installation

Once you have installed the software, ensure that the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope is connected to the PC and then start the PicoScope or PicoLog software. PicoScope should show a small 50 Hz or 60 Hz mains signal in the oscilloscope window when you touch the probe tip with your finger. PicoLog, once configured for a PicoScope 2000 Series oscilloscope, should show a small noise voltage.

Input connector

The PicoScope 2104 and 2105 PC Oscilloscopes have a built-in oscilloscope probe. This can be unscrewed if damaged, and replaced with a spare part available from Pico Technology or its authorised distributors.

Connectors and controls

1.USB cable. After installing the Pico software, plug the free end of this cable into your computer's USB port.

2.Probe. Touch this to the signal to be measured. You can fit a probe hook or insulating collar to the end of the probe. All these accessories are supplied with the oscilloscope.

3.Ground clip. You must connect this clip, which is supplied in the accessories pack, to the ground reference point of the circuit or equipment under test. Do not rely on your computer to supply a ground connection through the USB cable.

4.Illuminated button. Press this briefly to start or stop the oscilloscope. Press and hold to activate automatic setup when running PicoScope. The light glows or flashes green when the oscilloscope is running, and glows red when the instrument is stopped.

Product information

7

2.3

Specifications

Variant PicoScope 2104 PicoScope 2105

Vertical Resolution 8 bits

Analog Bandwidth 10 MHz 25 MHz

Maximum Sampling Rate

Real-time Repetitive (using ETS)

Timebases 10 ns/div to 50 s/div 5 ns/div to 50 s/div

Buffer Size 8k samples 24k samples

Input Oscilloscope probe

Voltage Ranges ±100 mV to ±20 V in 1, 2, 5 steps

Accuracy 3 % (voltage)

50 MS/s

1 GS/s

1 MW impedance

100 MS/s

2 GS/s

AC/DC coupling

100 ppm (time)

Linearity < 1 LSB at 25 °C

Environmental Limits

Operating temperature

(20°C to 30°C for quoted accuracy) Operating humidity Storage temperature Storage humidity

Overload Protection ±50 V (input to ground)

PC Connection USB 2.0

Power Supply From USB port: 4.6 to 5.25 V @ 300 mA

Maximum Dimensions 220 mm long (probe only)

Compliance CE standard; FCC standard

5% to 80% RH, non-condensing

5% to 95% RH, non-condensing

3 m long (including cable)

0 °C to 45 °C

-20°C to +60°C

Compatible with USB 1.1

32 mm diameter

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3

3.1

3.2

Technical reference

Driver

Once you have installed the PicoScope and PicoLog software, Windows will automatically install the driver when the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope is plugged in for the first time.

The Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/2003 32-bit driver, Windows directory. It is loaded using an

inf

file,

picopp.sys

picopp.inf

Driver error codes

This section is aimed at those people who intend to write their own programs for use with the driver. A description of the driver error codes is given below. If the PicoScope or PicoLog software reports an error, refer to the FAQ.

Code Enumeration Description

0 PS2000_OK

1 PS2000_MAX_UNITS_OPENED

2 PS2000_MEM_FAIL

3 PS2000_NOT_FOUND 4 PS2000_FW_FAIL 5 PS2000_NOT_RESPONDING

6 PS2000_CONFIG_FAIL

7 PS2000_OS_NOT_SUPPORTED

The PicoScope 2000 Series unit is functioning correctly.

Attempts have been made to open more than

PS2000_MAX_UNITS

Not enough memory could be allocated on the host machine.

No PicoScope 2000 Series unit could be found. Unable to download firmware. The PicoScope 2000 Series unit is not responding

to commands from the PC. The configuration information in the oscilloscope

has become corrupt or is missing. The operating system is not one of the supported

products: Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, XP and

2003.

units.

, is installed in the

.

Technical reference

9

3.3

3.3.1

3.3.2

Functions

ps2000_close_unit

short ps2000_close_unit ( short handle )

This function shuts down a PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscope.

Arguments

Returns

handle

being closed.

1

ps2000_flash_led

short ps2000_flash_led ( short handle )

This function flashes the red light in the unit's pushbutton three times, and returns within one second.

Arguments

Returns

handle

1

, the handle, returned by ps2000_open_unit(), of the unit

if a valid handle is passed, 0 if not.

, the handle of the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope.

if a valid handle is passed, 0 if not.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.3.3

ps2000_get_timebase

short ps2000_get_timebase ( short handle,

short timebase, long no_of_samples, long * time_interval_ns, short * time_units, short oversample, long * max_samples)

This function discovers which timebases are available on the oscilloscope. This function should be called after channel and ETS options have been set.

Arguments

handle

timebase

(depending on variant). Timebase 0 is the fastest timebase, equal to the maximum sampling frequency ( ) given in the Specifications.

Each successive timebase is half the frequency of the previous one. , the sampling frequency, is given by:

no_of_samples

calculate the most suitable time unit to use.

, the handle to the required device.

, a code between 0 and the maximum timebase number

, the number of samples required. This value is used to

Returns

time_interval_ns

between readings at the selected timebase. If a null pointer is passed, nothing will be written here.

time_units

in, when calling ps2000_get_times_and_values(). A list of values for

time_units

null pointer is passed, nothing will be written here.

oversample

See oversampling for an explanation.

max_samples

available. The number may vary depending on the number of channels enabled, the timebase chosen and the If this pointer is null, nothing will be written here.

if all parameters are in range, otherwise 0.

1

, a pointer to the most suitable time units to return data

, the oversampling factor required, between 1 and 256.

, a pointer to the time interval, in nanoseconds,

is given under ps2000_get_times_and_values(). If a

, a pointer to the maximum number of samples

oversample

selected.

Technical reference

11

3.3.4

ps2000_get_times_and_values

long ps2000_get_times_and_values( short handle,

long * times, short * buffer_a, short * buffer_b, short * buffer_c, short * buffer_d, short * overflow, short time_units, long no_of_values )

This function is used to get values and times. It will not return any valid times if the unit is in streaming mode. It is essential for ETS operation.

Arguments

handle

times

between the trigger event and the corresponding sample. Times before the trigger event are negative, and times after the trigger event are positive.

buffer_a,

oscilloscope. If the pointer is

Scaling for details of data format.

, the handle to the required device.

, a pointer to the buffer for the times. Each time is the interval

pointer to the buffer that receives data from the

NULL

, nothing will be written to it. See

buffer_b, buffer_c,

buffer_d,

overflow.

time_units PS2000_FS (0 PS2000_PS (1 PS2000_NS (2 PS2000_US (3 PS2000_MS (4 PS3000_S (5

no_of_values,

mode, this is the maximum number of values to return.

Returns The actual number of data values returned, which may be less than

the

no_of_values

is returned if one or more of the parameters are out of range or if

0

the times will overflow with the

ps2000_get_timebase() in order to acquire the most suitable

time_units

not used

Bit 0 indicates whether an overflow has occurred. , which can be one of the following:

) = femtoseconds, ) = picoseconds, ) = nanoseconds (default), ) = microseconds, ) = milliseconds, or

) = seconds.

the number of data points to return. In streaming

if streaming.

time_units

requested. Use

.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.3.5

ps2000_get_unit_info

short ps2000_get_unit_info ( short handle,

char * string, short string_length, short info )

This function writes information about the oscilloscope to a character string. If the unit fails to open, only information types 0 and 6 are available to explain why the last open unit call failed.

Arguments

handle

invalid handle is passed, the error code from the last unit that failed to open is returned.

* string

function where the unit information string (selected with stored. If a null pointer is passed, no information will be written.

string_length

is not long enough to accept all of the information, only the first

string_length

info

from the driver.

, the handle to the device from which

, a pointer to the character string buffer in the calling

, the length of the character string buffer. If the string

characters are returned.

, an enumerated type specifying what information is required

is required. If an

info

) will be

Returns The length of the string written to the character string buffer,

by the function. If one of the parameters is out of range, or a null pointer is passed for

info

PS2000_DRIVER_VERSION (0)

PS2000_USB_VERSION (1)

PS2000_HARDWARE_VERSION (2)

PS2000_VARIANT_INFO (3)

PS2000_BATCH_AND_SERIAL (4)

PS2000_CAL_DATE (5)

PS2000_ERROR_CODE (6)

string

Information returned Example

Version number of the DLL used by the PicoScope 2000 Series driver. Type of USB connection that is being used to connect the oscilloscope to the computer. Hardware version of the attached oscilloscope. Model of PicoScope 2000 Series unit that is attached to the computer. Batch and serial number of the oscilloscope. Calibration date of the oscilloscope. "17Jan06"

One of the Error codes. "0"

, zero will be returned.

"1, 3, 0, 0"

"2.0"

"4"

"2105"

"INR73/6"

string

,

Technical reference

13

3.3.6

ps2000_get_values

long ps2000_get_values( short handle,

short * buffer_a, short * buffer_b, short * buffer_c, short * buffer_d, short * overflow, long no_of_values )

This function is used to get values. It does nothing if ETS triggering is enabled.

Arguments

handle

buffer_a,

oscilloscope. If the pointer is

Scaling for details of data values.

buffer_b, buffer_c,

buffer_d,

overflow.

occurred.

no_of_values

mode, this is the maximum number of values to return.

, the handle to the required device.

pointer to the buffer that receives data from the

, nothing will be written to it. See

NULL

unused pointers

The least-significant bit indicates whether an overflow has

. The number of data points to return. In streaming

3.3.7

Returns The actual number of data values returned, which may be less than

no_of_values

is out of range.

if streaming.

is returned if one of the parameters

FALSE

ps2000_last_button_press

short ps2000_last_button_press ( short handle )

This function returns the last registered state of the pushbutton on the PicoScope 2104 or 2105 PC Oscilloscope and then resets the status to zero.

Arguments

Returns

handle -

– No button press registered

0

– Short button press registered

1

– Long button press registered

2

handle of the device

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.3.8

3.3.9

ps2000_open_unit

short ps2000_open_unit ( void )

This function opens a PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscope. The API driver can support up to four units.

Arguments None

Returns

if the unit fails to open,

-1

if no unit found,

0

(handle) if the unit opened

>0

ps2000_ready

short ps2000_ready ( short handle )

This function checks to see if the oscilloscope has finished the last data collection operation. It does nothing if the unit is in streaming mode.

Arguments

Returns

handle

1

block of data or the auto trigger timeout has been reached. If an invalid handle is passed, or the unit is in streaming mode, it

returns

-1

fails, indicating that the unit may well have been unplugged.

, the handle to the required device.

(meaning 'ready') is returned when the unit has collected a complete

( meaning 'not ready').

0

(meaning 'device not attached') is returned if the endpoint transfer

Technical reference

15

3.3.10

ps2000_run_block

short ps2000_run_block ( short handle,

long no_of_samples, short timebase, short oversample, long * time_indisposed_ms )

This function tells the unit to start collecting data in block mode.

Arguments

handle

no_of_samples

timebase

on variant). Timebase 0 is the fastest timebase, equal to the maximum sampling frequency ( ) given in the specifications. Each

successive timebase is half the frequency of the previous one. , the sampling frequency, is given by:

oversample

See oversampling for more information.

, the handle to the required device.

, the number of samples to return.

, a code between 0 and the maximum timebase (depending

, the oversample factor, a number between 1 and 256.

Returns

time_indisposed_ms

the approximate time, in milliseconds, that the ADC will take to collect data. If a trigger is set, it is measured from the trigger event. It is calculated as:

(sample interval) x (number of samples required)

Note: The actual time may differ from computer to computer, depending on how fast the computer can respond to I/O requests.

if one of the parameters is out of range, otherwise 1.

0

, a pointer to the

time_indisposed_ms

. This is

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.3.11

ps2000_run_streaming

short ps2000_run_streaming ( short handle,

short time_interval_ms, long max_samples, short windowed )

This function tells the unit to start collecting data in streaming mode. If the function is called when a trigger has been enabled, the trigger settings will be ignored.

Arguments

Returns

handle time_interval_ms

samples. This can be no shorter than 1 ms.

max_samples

store. This can be no greater than 60 000. It is the caller's responsibility to retrieve data before the oldest values are overwritten.

windowed.

values are returned. If it is 1, the number of values requested by

ps2000_get_values() are returned, even if they have already been

read by ps2000_get_values(). See streaming mode for details.

1 0

, the handle to the required device.

, the time interval, in milliseconds, between

, the maximum number of samples that the driver is to

If this is 0, only the values taken since the last call to get

if streaming has been enabled correctly, if a problem occurred or a value was out of range.

Technical reference

17

3.3.12

ps2000_set_channel

short ps2000_set_channel ( short handle,

short channel, short enabled, short dc, short range )

Specifies whether a channel is to be enabled, the position of the AC/DC switch and the input range.

Arguments

handle

channel

enabled TRUE FALSE

dc TRUE FALSE

range

, the handle to the required device.

, an enumerated type, must be , specifies whether the channel is active:

= active,

= inactive.

, specifies the position of the AC/DC switch:

= DC,

= AC.

, a code between 3 and 10. See the table below.

PS2000_CHANNEL_A or 0

.

Returns

Code Enumeration Range

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

if unsuccessful, or if one or more of the arguments are out of range.

0

if successful.

1

PS2000_100MV PS2000_200MV PS2000_500MV PS2000_1V PS2000_2V PS2000_5V PS2000_10V PS2000_20V

±100 mV ±200 mV ±500 mV ±1 V ±2 V ±5 V ±10 V ±20 V

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.3.13

ps2000_set_ets

long ps2000_set_ets ( short handle,

short mode, short ets_cycles, short ets_interleave )

This function is used to enable or disable ETS (equivalent time sampling) and to set the ETS parameters.

Arguments

handle

mode:

- PS2000_ETS_OFF (0

- PS2000_ETS_FAST(1

data, which may contain data from previously returned cycles,

- PS2000_ETS_SLOW (2 ets_cycles

data sets are more stable and are unique.

ets_cycles

then select samples. of

, the handle to the required device.

) - disables ETS,

) - enables ETS and provides

) - enables ETS and provides fresh data every

cycles. This takes longer to provide each data set, but the

, specifies the number of cycles to store: the computer can

ets_interleave

ets_cycles

ets_interleave

should be between two and five times the value

.

cycles to give the most uniform spread of

ets_cycles

of

ets_interleave

the sample time is 20 ns and the interleave 10, the approximate time per sample will be 2 ns.

Returns If ETS is enabled, the effective sample time will be returned.

if ETS is disabled or one of the parameters is out of range.

0

, specifies the number of ETS interleaves to use. If

Technical reference

19

3.3.14

ps2000_set_trigger

short ps2000_set_trigger ( short handle,

short source, short threshold, short direction, short delay, short auto_trigger_ms )

This function is used to enable or disable triggering and its parameters. Triggering is not available in streaming mode.

Arguments

handle

source

Use

threshold

ADC counts at the currently selected range.

direction PS2000_RISING (0

delay

samples, between the trigger event and the start of the block. It should be in the range -100% to +100%. Thus, 0% means that the the trigger event is at the first data value in the block, and -50% means that it is in the middle of the block.

, the handle to the required device. , specifies where to look for a trigger.

PS2000_CHANNEL_A (0

, the threshold for the trigger event. This is scaled in 16-bit

. Specifies the edge on which to trigger. Use

) or

, specifies the delay, as a percentage of the requested number of

) or

PS2000_NONE (5

PS2000_FALLING (1

).

3.3.15

, the delay in milliseconds after which the unit will

.

1

Returns

auto_trigger_ms

collect samples if no trigger event occurs. If this is set to zero, the unit will wait for a trigger indefinitely.

if one of the parameters is out of range, otherwise

0

ps2000_stop

void ps2000_stop ( short handle )

Call this function to stop the unit sampling data. If this function is called before a trigger event occurs, the unit may not contain valid data.

Arguments

Returns

handle

0

, the handle to the required device.

if an invalid handle is passed, otherwise 1.

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PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.4

3.4.1

3.4.2

Advanced features

Sampling modes

A PicoScope PC Oscilloscope can run in various sampling modes. At high sampling rates, the oscilloscope collects data much faster than a PC can read it. To compensate for this, the oscilloscope stores a block of data in an internal memory buffer, delaying transfer to the PC until a preset number of data points has been sampled. This is called block mode. At very low sampling rates, you may want to switch to streaming mode. This allows accurately timed data to be transferred back to the PC, without gaps. Real-time continuous mode is also provided for use at low sampling rates, and allows capture of data from multiple converters.

Sampling mode support in Pico software

Block Streaming Real-time

continuous

PicoScope Yes * † Yes * † No PicoLog Yes * Yes * Yes

*

† PicoScope automatically selects block or streaming mode

More on block mode

Only with a single converter

In block mode, the computer prompts a unit to collect a block of data into its internal memory. When the oscilloscope has collected the whole block, it will signal it is ready, and transfer the whole block into computer memory via the USB port.

The maximum number of values depends upon the size of the oscilloscope's memory. A PicoScope PC Oscilloscope can sample at a number of different rates, which correspond to the maximum sampling frequency divided by 1, 2, 4, 8 and so on.

The PicoScope 2000 Series driver normally performs a number of setup operations before collecting each block of data. This can take up to 50 milliseconds. If it is necessary to collect data with the minimum time interval between blocks, avoid calling setup functions between calls to ps2000_run_block(), ps2000_ready(),

ps2000_stop() (not normally used) and ps2000_get_values().

Technical reference

21

3.4.3

More on streaming mode

In streaming mode, the computer prompts the unit to start collecting data. The data are then transferred back to the PC without being stored in oscilloscope memory. Data can be sampled with a period between 1 millisecond and 60 seconds.

Data can be transferred by the PicoScope 2000 Series driver to a computer program in either normal or windowed mode.

Normal mode

In normal mode, any data collected since the last data transfer operation are returned in their entirety. This mode is useful if the computer program requires only fresh data on every transfer.

Windowed mode

In windowed mode, a fixed number of samples is returned, even if the oldest samples have been returned before. Windowed mode is useful when the program requires data from a constant time interval.

Notes

Once the unit is collecting data in streaming mode, any setup changes (for example, changing a channel range or AC/DC setting in the PicoScope software application) will cause a restart of the data stream.

3.4.4

3.4.5

3.4.6

The driver can buffer up to 32K samples of data per channel, but the user must ensure that the ps2000_get_values() function is called frequently enough to avoid buffer overrun.

The ps2000_get_times_and_values() function will always return streaming mode.

FALSE (0)

in

Triggering

The unit can either start collecting data immediately, or it can be programmed to wait for a trigger event to occur. In either case, you need to use the

ps2000_set_trigger() function. A trigger occurs when the input crosses a threshold

voltage on either a rising or a falling edge.

ETS (Equivalent Time Sampling)

ETS is a way of increasing the effective sample rate when working with repetitive

signals. It is not possible to use ETS with one-shot signals. ETS is controlled by the

ps2000_set_trigger() and ps2000_set_ets() functions, and is available in block

mode only. Calls to the ps2000_set_trigger() function have no effect in streaming mode. As ETS will return random time intervals, the

ps2000_get_times_and_values() function must be used. The ps2000_get_values()

function will return

FALSE (0)

.

Voltage ranges

It is possible to set the gain for each channel with the ps2000_set_channel() function. This allows you to set an input voltage range between ±100 mV and ±20 V.

22

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.4.7

3.4.8

3.4.9

AC/DC operation

Using the ps2000_set_channel() function, the input can be set to either AC or DC coupling. When AC coupling is used, any DC component of the signal is filtered out.

Oversampling

When the unit is operating in block mode at speeds less than the maximum, it is possible to oversample, which means taking more than one measurement during a time interval and returning an average. This reduces the effects of noise, and increases the effective vertical resolution of the oscilloscope.

Setting an oversampling factor of n increases the time interval by a factor of n and reduces the maximum number of samples by the same factor. At the same time it increases the effective resolution by the amount given by the equation:

increase in resolution (bits) = ( log oversample ) / ( 2 log 2 ) For example, an oversampling factor of four increases the resolution by one bit. The ps2000_run_block() function controls oversampling.

Scaling

PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes have a resolution of 8 bits, but the oscilloscope driver normalises all readings to 16 bits. This enables it to take advantage of noise reduction from oversampling, when this is enabled. The following table shows the relationship between the reading from the driver and the voltage of the signal.

Reading Voltage

-32 767 Negative full scale 0 Zero volts 32 767 Positive full scale

Technical reference

23

3.4.10

Combining oscilloscopes

With PicoLog or your own program, it is possible to collect data using up to four PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes at the same time. Each unit must be connected to a separate USB port, or, if a USB hub is used, it must be a powered hub. The ps2000_open_unit() function returns a handle to a unit, and all of the other functions require this handle for unit identification. For example, to collect data from two units at the same time:

handle1 = ps2000_open() handle2 = ps2000_open()

ps2000_set_channel(handle1) ... set up unit 1 ps2000_run(handle1)

ps2000_set_channel(handle2) ... set up unit 2 ps2000_run(handle2)

ready1 = FALSE ready2 = FALSE

while not ready1

ready1 = ps2000_ready(handle1)

while not ready2

ready2 = ps2000_ready(handle2)

ps2000_get_values(handle1) ps2000_get_values(handle2)

Note: It is not possible to synchronise the collection of data between PicoScope PC Oscilloscopes that are being used in combination.

24

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.5

3.5.1

3.5.2

Using different modes

Introduction

The previous section on advanced features supplied the programmer with extended information on PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes. The C sample program,

ps2000con.c

includes examples showing how to use each of the modes available.

Using block mode

This is the general procedure for reading and displaying data in block mode:

1.Open the unit using ps2000_open_unit()

2.Select channel range and AC/DC switch using ps2000_set_channel()

3.Using ps2000_set_trigger(), set the trigger if required

4.Using ps2000_get_timebase(), select timebases until the required time per sample

in nanoseconds is located

5.Start the unit running using ps2000_run_block()

6.Wait until the unit says it is ready using ps2000_ready()

7.Transfer the block of data from the unit using ps2000_get_values() or

ps2000_get_times_and_values()

8.Display the data

9.Repeat steps 5 to 8 as many times as necessary

10.Stop the unit using ps2000_stop().

, demonstrates how to use the functions of the driver software, and

3.5.3

3.5.4

Using streaming mode

This is the general procedure for reading and displaying data in streaming mode:

1.Open the unit using ps2000_open_unit()

2.Select channel range and AC/DC switch using ps2000_set_channel()

3.Start the unit running using ps2000_run_streaming()

4.Transfer the block of data from the unit using ps2000_get_values()

5.Display the data

6.Repeat steps 4 to 5 as necessary

7.Stop the unit using ps2000_stop()

Using ETS mode

This is the general procedure for reading and displaying data in ETS mode:

1.Open the unit using ps2000_open_unit()

2.Select channel range and AC/DC switch using ps2000_set_channel()

3.Using ps2000_set_trigger(), set the trigger if required

4.Set ETS mode using ps2000_set_ets()

5.Start the unit running using ps2000_run_block()

6.Wait until the unit says it is ready using ps2000_ready()

7.Transfer the block of data from the unit using ps2000_get_times_and_values()

8.Display the data

9.Repeat steps 5 to 8 as necessary

10.Stop the unit using ps2000_stop()

Technical reference

25

3.6

3.6.1

Programming

C

There are two C example programs: one is a simple GUI application, and the other is a more comprehensive console mode program that demonstrates all of the facilities of the driver.

GUI example

The GUI example program is a generic Windows application - that is, it does not use Borland AppExpert or Microsoft AppWizard. To compile the program, create a new project for an Application containing the following files:

ps2000.c ps2000.rc

and

ps2000bc.lib ps2000.lib

The following files must be in the compilation directory:

ps2000.rch ps2000.h

(Borland 32-bit applications); or (Microsoft Visual C 32-bit applications)

and the following file must be in the same directory as the executable.

ps2000.dll

Console example

The console example program is also a generic Windows application - that is, it does not use Borland AppExpert or Microsoft AppWizard. To compile the program, create a new project for an Application containing the following files:

ps2000con.c

and

ps2000bc.lib ps2000.lib

The following files must be in the compilation directory:

ps2000.h

and the following file must be in the same directory as the executable.

ps2000.dll

(Borland 32-bit applications); or (Microsoft Visual C 32-bit applications).

26

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

3.6.2

3.6.3

3.6.4

Visual Basic

The

Win32\

ps2000.vbp ps2000.bas ps2000.frm

Note: The functions that return a whereas Visual Basic expects 65 535 for rather than

subdirectory contains the following files:

- project file

- procedure prototypes

- form and program

value return 0 for . To avoid this problem, check for

TRUE

= TRUE

TRUE/FALSE

.

Delphi

The program Oscilloscopes. The file in your own programs. Other required files include

ps2000fm.pas

ps2000.dpr

. This has been tested with Delphi version 3.

demonstrates how to operate PicoScope 2000 Series PC

ps2000.inc

contains procedure prototypes that you can include

Excel

1. Load the spreadsheet

2. Select Tools | Macro

3. Select GetData

4. Select Run

ps2000.xls

and 1 for

FALSE

ps2000.res, ps2000fm.dfm

TRUE

> 0

and

,

3.6.5

3.6.6

Note: The Excel Macro language is similar to Visual Basic. The functions which return a

TRUE/FALSE

65 535 for

value, return 0 for

. Check for

TRUE

FALSE

rather than

> 0

and 1 for

= TRUE

, whereas Visual Basic expects

TRUE

.

Agilent VEE

The example function that are defined in

ps2000.vh

ps2000.vee

is in the

. It was tested using Agilent VEE version 5.

drivers\

subdirectory. It uses procedures

LabVIEW

The

ps2000.vi

the driver functions using LabVIEW. It was tested using version 6.1 of LabVIEW for Windows. To use the example, copy these files to your LabVIEW directory:

ps2000.vi open_unit.vi set_channel.vi setup_data_collection.vi

You will also need

ps2000.dll

from the

Drivers\

example in the

subdirectory.

Drivers\Win32\

subdirectory shows how to access

Troubleshooting

27

4

4.1

Troubleshooting

Software error codes

Consult this section if you are a PicoScope or PicoLog user. If you are writing your own program, refer to the driver error codes section.

PicoLog reports error code 1.

This error is reported when you try to open more than 4 PicoScope PC Oscilloscopes on one machine. It is not possible to use more than 4 units with PicoLog.

PicoScope or PicoLog reports error code 2.

This error is reported when the driver cannot allocate enough of the computer's memory to operate the unit. Consult the system requirements section for more information.

PicoScope or PicoLog reports error code 3.

This error indicates that a PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscope could not be found on your machine. Make sure the software is installed before the unit is plugged into the USB socket, and restart your computer.

Ensure that the Windows Device Manager mentions the PicoScope 2000 Series unit. If the unit is not mentioned there, contact Pico Technical Support for further advice.

PicoScope or PicoLog reports error code 4, 5 or 6.

These errors are reported when there is a problem with the unit itself. They could arise from configuration settings being corrupted, or a firmware or hardware error.

Unplug the unit, wait a few seconds, and reconnect it to the USB port. If the error is still reported, consult Pico Technical Support for further advice.

PicoScope or PicoLog reports error code 7.

This error is reported if the operating system is not recent enough to support the PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscope. Consult the system requirements section for more information.

28

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide

5

Glossary

AC/DC switch

To switch between measuring alternating current and direct current, select AC or DC from the control on the oscilloscope toolbar of the PicoScope software application. Choose the setting to suit the characteristics of the input signal.

Analog bandwidth

The input frequency at which the signal amplitude has fallen by 3 dB, or by half the power, from its nominal value.

Block mode

A sampling mode in which the computer prompts the PC Oscilloscope to collect a block of data into its internal memory before stopping the unit and transferring the whole block into computer memory. This is the best mode to use when the input signal being sampled contains high frequencies. Note: To avoid aliasing effects, the sampling rate must be greater than twice the maximum frequency in the input signal.

Buffer size

The size of the PicoScope PC Oscilloscope buffer memory. The unit uses this to store data temporarily, so that it can sample data independently of the speed at which it can transfer data to the computer.

Driver

A software application that controls a piece of hardware. The driver for the PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes is supplied in the form of a 32-bit Windows DLL. This is used by the PicoScope and PicoLog software to control the units.

ETS

Equivalent time sampling. The PicoScope 2104 and 2105 can collect data over a number of cycles of a repetitive waveform to give a higher effective sampling rate than is possible for a single cycle. Equivalent time sampling allows the oscilloscope to use faster timebases than those available in real-time mode.

Maximum sampling rate

A figure indicating the maximum number of samples the unit is capable of acquiring per second. Maximum sample rates are usually given in MS/s (megasamples per second) or GS/s (gigasamples per second). The higher the sampling speed of the oscilloscope, the more accurate the representation of the high-frequency details in a fast signal.

Oversampling

A method of increasing the effective resolution of a measurement by sampling faster than the required sampling rate, then averaging the extra samples. An oversampling factor of four increases the effective resolution by one bit, but this increased resolution comes at the expense of reducing the maximum sampling rate by the same factor.

PC Oscilloscope

A virtual instrument consisting of a PicoScope PC Oscilloscope and the PicoScope software application.

PicoLog software

This is a software product that accompanies all our oscilloscopes. It turns your PC into a data logger and chart recorder.

PicoScope 2000 Series

A range of low-cost PC Oscilloscopes that includes the PicoScope 2202 entry-level unit and 2104 and 2105 variants.

Glossary

29

PicoScope software

This is a software product that accompanies all our oscilloscopes. It turns your PC into an oscilloscope, spectrum analyser, and meter display.

Real-time continuous mode

A sampling mode in which the software repeatedly requests single samples from the PC Oscilloscope. This mode is suitable for low sampling rates when you require the latest sample to be displayed as soon as it is captured.

Streaming mode

A sampling mode in which the PC Oscilloscope samples data and returns it to the computer in an unbroken stream. This mode of operation is suitable when the input signal being sampled contains only low frequencies.

Timebase

The timebase controls the time interval represented across the width of the oscilloscope screen. If you select "Scope timebase is time per division" in the Scope

Advanced Options dialog box in the PicoScope application (Settings | Options, Advanced), it works like a traditional bench-top oscilloscope. There are ten divisions

across the screen, so the total time interval is ten times the timebase.

USB 1.1

Universal Serial Bus (Full Speed). This is a standard port that enables you to connect external devices to PCs. A typical USB 1.1 port supports a data transfer rate of 12 megabits per second, and is much faster than an RS-232 or COM port.

USB 2.0

Universal Serial Bus (High Speed). This is a standard port that enables you to connect external devices to PCs. A typical USB 2.0 port supports a data transfer rate 40 times faster than USB 1.1. USB 2.0 is backwards-compatible with USB 1.1.

Vertical resolution

A value, in bits, that indicates the number of input voltage levels that the oscilloscope can distinguish. Calculation techniques can improve the effective resolution.

Voltage range

The range of input voltages that the PC Oscilloscope will measure in a given mode.

Windows Device Manager

Windows Device Manager is a component of Microsoft Windows that displays the current hardware configuration of your computer. On Windows 98 or Windows ME, right click on My Computer, select Properties and click the Device Manager tab. On Windows 2000 or Windows XP, right-click My Computer, choose Properties, click the Hardware tab and then the Device Manager button.

PicoScope 2104 & 2105 PC Oscilloscope User Guide30

Index

A

AC coupling 22 AC/DC switch 17, 21, 24 Accuracy 7 ADC 20, 22 Agilent VEE 26 Aliasing 22 Analog bandwidth 7

B

Block mode 15, 20, 21, 22, 24 Buffer memory 20, 21 Buffer size 7

C

ps2000_get_times_and_values 11 ps2000_get_unit_info 12 ps2000_get_values 13 ps2000_last_button_press 13 ps2000_open_unit 14 ps2000_ready 14 ps2000_run_block 15 ps2000_run_streaming 16 ps2000_set_channel 17 ps2000_set_ets 18 ps2000_set_trigger 19 ps2000_stop 19

G

Gain 21 Ground clip 6

H

Humidity 7

C programming 24, 25 Calibration 2 Channel 10, 13, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24 Compliance 7 Contact details 4

D

Data logger 1 DC coupling 22 Delphi programming 26 Dimensions, maximum 7 Driver 8, 20, 21, 22, 24, 27 Driver error codes 8, 27

E

Error codes 8, 27 ETS 7, 10, 11, 13, 18, 21, 24 Excel macros 26

I

Illuminated button 6, 9 Input 7 Input connector 6 Input range, maximum 7 Installation 6

L

LabView driver 26 Licence conditions 3 Light 6, 9 Linearity 7

M

Macros in Excel 26 Memory buffer 20, 21 Multi-unit operation 23

F

Functions 21, 22, 23, 24

ps2000_close_unit 9 ps2000_flash_led 9 ps2000_get_timebase 10

N

Normal mode 21

O

One-shot signal 21 Operating environment 7 Overload protection 7 Oversampling 22

Temperature 7 Test equipment 2 Threshold voltage 21 Time interval 21, 22 Timebase 7, 10, 15 Trademarks 4 Triggering 21

Index

31

P

PC connection 7 PC oscilloscopes 1, 3 Pico Technical Support 27 PicoLog software 1, 8 picopp.inf 8 picopp.sys 8 PicoScope 2000 Series PC Oscilloscopes 1,

2, 3, 8, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27 PicoScope software 1, 8 Power supply 7 Pre-trigger 21 Probe 6 Programming

Agilent VEE 26 C 24, 25 Dephi 26 Excel 26 LabView 26 Visual Basic 26

U

USB 1 USB cable 6 USB hub 23 USB port 27

V

Vertical resolution 7, 22 Visual Basic programming 26 Voltage ranges 7

W

Warranty 4 Windowed mode 21 Windows Device Manager 27

R

Real-time continuous mode 20 Repair 2 Resolution, vertical 22

S

Safety symbols 1 Safety warning 2 Sampling rate 21 Sampling rate, maximum 7 Software error codes 27 Spectrum analyser 1 Streaming mode 16, 20, 21, 24 System requirements, minimum 5

T

Technical support 27

PS2100044-1.0 31.3.06

Interworld Electronics & Computers Inc.

P.O. Box 1280

145 Tyee Drive, Suite 3120

Point Roberts, WA 98281

Tel: 1-877-902-2979 Fax: 1-877-FAX-IECI

Web: www.interworldna.com

Pico Communications 2104, 2105 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Overview

Safety symbols

Safety warning

FCC notice

CE notice

Licence conditions

Trademarks

Warranty

Company details

Product information

Minimum system requirements

Installation instructions

Specifications

Technical reference

Driver

Driver error codes

Functions

ps2000_close_unit

ps2000_flash_led

ps2000_get_timebase

ps2000_get_times_and_values

ps2000_get_unit_info

ps2000_get_values

ps2000_last_button_press

ps2000_open_unit

ps2000_ready

ps2000_run_block

ps2000_run_streaming

ps2000_set_channel

ps2000_set_ets

ps2000_set_trigger

ps2000_stop

Advanced features

Sampling modes

More on block mode

More on streaming mode

Triggering

ETS (Equivalent Time Sampling)

Voltage ranges

AC/DC operation

Oversampling

Scaling

Combining oscilloscopes

Using different modes

Introduction

Using block mode

Using streaming mode

Using ETS mode

Programming

Visual Basic

Delphi

Excel

Agilent VEE

LabVIEW

Troubleshooting

Software error codes

Glossary