Tektronix 251 Instruction Manual

Model 251 I-V Test Software

Instruction Manual

Contains Operating Information

WARRANTY

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of 1 year 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, transporta-

tion 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, non­rechargeable 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 BUYERS 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.

Test Instrumentation Group, Keithley Instruments, Inc. l 28775 Aurora Road * Cleveland, Ohio 44139 l [phone] l Fax: [phone]

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hstructionManual

Model 251

I-V Test Software

61990, Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Test Instrumentation Group

All rights reserved.

Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

Document Number: 251-901-01 Rev. B

AI1 Keithley product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Other btand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders

Model 251 I-V Test Software

OVERVIEW

INSTRUMENTS CONTROLLED: Model 236/237/238 Source Measure

Units (SMU),Model213QuadVoltageSource,Model707MahixSwitch.
Model 2361 Trigger Controller is required for 2 or more SMUs.

TESTS: Control instruments to source and measure current or voltage.

CurveFarnR~SWEEP,SYNCHSWEEP,STEP,andupto3BIASchannels,

Linear, log, linear pulsed and log pulsed sweeps.

DC Source-Meas& Up to 6 BIAS Channels.

GPIB CONTROL: Provides basic control of any GPIB instrument. Useful

for controlling sources, switch matrices, hot chucks, and probers.

707 MATRIX SUPPORT: Upload and download setups (up to 100

memories).

DATA DISPLAY: Graphic or list display.

XY or XYY Graph Axer Manual or auto scale, linear or log, labeled, X-

axis and Y-axis invert.

Overlay two sets of reference data on original.

GRAPHIC ANALYSIS: Dual data curve markers with data value readout.

Line Display Between markers. Readout slope, l/slope, X- and Y-

intercept. Zoom between markers. Filter data curve.

Gain/Ratio Calculation: DC or differential. Data array or point. Graphic

display or readout referenced to marker position. Used for Beta, g,,, or
resistsnce.

PRINT/FLOTr Hardcopy output of any screen to printer,or output graphic

display to plotter.

FILES: Data File: Contains Data, test, GPIB and display parameters.

Test Setup File: Contains Test, GPIB and display parameters.

l~dw.rnrn, P,%nGm.e+inn lxia. Prm+*;na r”rk...... ..I. ..*..7-

. ..“.a-.-... b”.Y.~w.mU”‘. a Y.G. b”AIba.AW uwucullell, ,mn,sa,

GPIB addresses, Trigger Controller channels.

Test Sequence Files: Contains the user’s pre-programmed test

sequence 64!XlI file).
787 Filer Contains 707 matrix setups.
Data Ex~ort/Irnportr Contains Da& array names and units. Lotus

(.WKl) and ASCII (.ASC).

AUTOMATICTESTSEQUENCES:Programanysequenceoftests,prints,

plots, 707 downloads, data save/acport, prompts and display, for at­tendedorunattendedoperation. Printingorplottingcanbedoneoff-line
(after acquisition).

MEASUREMENT CAPACITY LIMITS: A curve in the Curve Family Test

may contain up to 1000 points. Up to six source arrays and up to six

measurement arrays can be created by each test. Each array is limited to
4000 Points. The maximum number of arrays and tests is limited only by
the available disk storage space.

HELP: On-line, context sensitive, with index.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

MINIMUM HOST COMFUTERr IBM compatible 80386,640kb Conven-

tional RAM (53Ok or 542720 bytes free) plus 1Mb of LIM expanded
memory, hard drive (2MB free), 720kb 3v2 inch or 1.2Mh 5v, inch floppy
drive, Intel 80387 math coprocessor, EGA color monitor and graphics
card, parallel Port.

OFERATING SYSTEM: M!3-DOS or PC-DOS 3.2 kninhum).
GRAPHICS ADAPTER EGA or VGA color, VGA monochrome.

COMPATIBLE PRINTERS: IBM Graphics Printers, Epson or compatible,

HP LaserJet, IBM Proprinter, and Okidata Microline 182.
COMPATIBLE PLOTTERS HP7440, HP7470, HP7475.
COMFATIBLE MOUSE: Microsoft or Logitech.

IEEE-488 (GPIB) INTERFACE CARDS SUPPORTED

Advantech PCL 748

B&C PC488A

BBS GPIB-1000

CaPital Equipment rcc>4u,4x488, P5-9488

Contec GPIB (PC)

Hewlett Packard HPIB

IBM GPIB board
ICS 488-PC1

IOtech GP488, GP488/2
Keithley PC488CEC, 4-488-CEC-OM, 4+488-CEC-lM, P%W-CEC
MetraByte IE-488
National Instruments GPIB-PC, GPIB-PC& GPIB-PCRA, GPIB-PClII,

MC-GPIB, AT-GPIB
Qua Tech MXI-100, I&XI-1000
Scientific Solutions IEEE 488 LM, MC-IEEE 488
Ziatech ZT 1444,ZT/2

.- an

SUPPLIED TEST LIBRARY

The Test Library provides default settings for the Test, 707 Matrix, GPIB

Control, Data Display and Graphic Analysis screens.

FET TESTS: Curve Family, Threshold Voltage, Transconductance, Break-

down, and Leakage.

BIPOLAR TESTS: Curve Family, Gummel Plot, Current Gain, Break-

down, and Leakage (linear and pulsed sweeps).
DIODE TESTS: I-V Curve, Reverse Breakdown, Zener Voltage.
COMPONENT TESTS: Capacitor Leakage, Resistor Voltage Coefficient.
EXAMPL.E GPIB CONTROL: 213 Quad Voltage Source, 707 Switching

Matrix and hot chuck.
TEST SEQUENCES: Bipolar tests, multiple diodes.

MATERIALS PROVIDED

Instruction Manual

Diskettes: 720kb 3tis inch and 1.2Mb 5v, inch containing installation,

program, test library, and sample data.

Specifications subject to change without notice.

INTRODUCTION

This addendum to the Model 251 Instruction Manual is being provided to supply you with the
latest information in the least possible time. Please incorporate the following information into the
manual.

LOADING AND SAVING FILES

An enhancement to the Model 251 I-V Test Software is its ability to perform file operations from
the CURVE FAMILY TEST and DC SOURCE-MEASURE TEST forms. You no longer have to re­turn to the main menu to load/save data, test setup, instrument configuration, and 707 files, or
import/export ASCII and Lotus formatted files. (Loading sequence files remains a main menu op­eration.)

This load/save enhancement is implemented with function keys. The 4% key loads (and im­ports) files and the <F3> key saves (and exports) file.

When the cl% key is pressed from the CURVE FAMILY TEST or DC SOURCE-MEASURE TEST
form, the following pop-up is displayed:

Load Data File

I
Load Test File
Load Inst. Cf. File

Load 707 File

hn~ortm File

Imbort Lotus File 1

Use the cursor to select the desired operation and press <Enter>. When loading test setup and data
files, you are reminded that loading overwrites old test parameters and data. If you continue, the
next screen prompts for a file name in the usual manner. After the tile is loaded or imported you
are returned to the appropriate test form.

When the <F3> key is pressed from the CURVE FAMILY TESTor DC SOURCE-MEASURE TEST
form, the following pop-up is displayed:

Save Data File
Save Test File
Save Inst. Cfg. File
Save 707 File
Import ASCII File

Import Lotus File

Use the cursor to select the desired operation and press <Enter>. The next screen prompts for a file
name in the usual manner. After the file is saved or exported you are returned to the appropriate
test form.

SEQUENCER DELAY COMMAND

A DELAY co

mmand has been added to the test sequencer. It forces the sequencer to wait a speci­fied interval before processing the next command. This allows for thermal settling between tests
or sending GPIB commands to other instruments. The DELAY command has the form:

DELAY: delay-value

where delay-value may be specified in seconds or dd:hh:mrn:ss for days, hours, minutes, and sec­onds (expressed in positive integers). There is a maximum of three colons in the delay-value field,
plus one that must follow the DELAY command.

During the time delay, the screen displays the seconds remaining. You can press <Eso to stop the
delay. The following examples show legal and illegal forms:

DELAY: 0 zero seconds
DELAY: illegal value
DELAY: : zero seconds
DELAY:3::120:100 3 days, 120 minutes, 100 seconds

Table of Contents

SECTION 1

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.6.1

1.6.2

1.6.3

1.7 COMPUTERREQ

1.7.1 ComputerHardware

1.7.2 IEEE-488Interfaces..

1.7.3 Printers and Plotters

- General Information

INTRODU~ON
FEATURES
WARRANTYINFORMATION
MANUALADDENDA
sAFETysyMBoLsANDTERMs
UNFACKINGANDINSPECTION..

UnpackingProcedure..
Shipment Contents
InstructionManual

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...........................................................

UIREMENTS ...................................................

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...............................................

SECTION 2 - Getting Started

2.1

2.2

2.2.1

2.2.2

2.3

2.3.1

2.3.2

2.3.3

2.3.4

2.3.5

2.4 COMPUTERHARDWARE AND SOWARE INSTALLATION

2.4.1 IEEE-488 Interface Card Installation

2.4.2

2.4.3 Software Backup

2.4.4 Software Installation and Configuration

2.4.5 Software Reconfiguration

2.5

2.5.1 RunningtheSoftware..

2.5.2

2.5.3 ExpandedMemoryRequirement

2.5.4

2.5.5

2.5.6

2.5.7

2.5.8

2.5.9

~ODUCTION
HARDWARECONFIGURATION

SystemBlockDiagram
system coNlections

sYsTEMPowER-ulJ

Instrument Power Requirements
PowerConnections
EnvironmentalConditions
Warm-upperiod
Power-upprocedure

CopyProtedionBlock

OPERATIONOVERVIEW

DosMemoryRequirement

Setting Up Printers and Plotters
MainMenuOptions
UsingFunctionKeys
HowtoGetHelp
Configuring the IEEE-488 Card
ConfiguringtheInstruments

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l-l
1-l
l-2

l-2

l-2
l-2
l-2

l-2

l-2

l-3
l-3
l-3
l-3

2-l
2-l
2-l
2-4
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-15
2-15
2-16
2-16
2-17
2-18
2-19
2-19
2-20
2-21

2-22

2-24

2-25

2-26

2-27

2.6

2.6.1

2.6.2

SYSTEM CHECKOUT

Running Simple Tests

SystemTroubleshooting .......................................................

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SECTION 3 - Measurements

.........................................................

2-28
2-28
231

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.4.1

3.4.2

3.5

3.5.1

3.5.2

3.5.3

3.6

3.6.1

3.6.2

3.6.3

3.7

3.7.1

3.7.2

3.7.3

3.7.4

3.7.5

3.7.6

3.7.7

INTRODUclTION

MEAS~OVFRVIEW ...................................................

DATAENTRY ................................................................

INSTRUMENTCONFIGURATION

DEFINE INSTRUMENTS Form

ParameterDescription ........................................................

CURVEFAMILYTESTS .........................................................

CURVEFAMILYTESTForm

ParameterDescription ........................................................

Curve Family Test Examples ....................................................

DcsOuRcEANDMEAsuRETESTs ...............................................

DcSOuRcE-MEAsuRETEsTFo~

ParameterDescription ........................................................

DC Source-Measure Test Examples ...............................................

GPlBINPUT/OTJTPUI .........................................................

GENERALGPIBOUTPUTForm .................................................

ParameterDescription ........................................................

GPIBCommands ............................................................

GPIB Display Fields ..........................................................

Model707Fields .............................................................

Uploading and Downloading

System Troubleshooting with the GPlB Form .......................................

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3-l
3-l
3-2
3-5
3-5
3-7
3-9
3-9
3-11
3-16
3-23
3-23
3-25

3-28
3-30
3-30
3-32
3-32
3-33
3-33
3-35
3-36

SECTION 4 - Data Display

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.3.1

4.32

4.4

4.4.1

4.4.2

4.5

4.5.1

4.5.2

4.6

4.6.1

4.6.2

4.6.3

4.6.4

4.6.5

4.7

4.7.1

INTRODUcIloN ..............................................................

DISl?LAYOVERVIEW ..........................................................

DISPLAYPV.. ......................................................

DispIayParametersScreen .....................................................

Parameter Description

GRAPHICSDISPLAY ...........................................................

Graphics Screen Format .......................................................

AnalysisToolDescription ......................................................

LISTDATA ..................................................................

ListingCurveData ...........................................................

ListingDCData .............................................................

PRINTINGANDPLOITING .....................................................

Printer/PlotterConfiguration

Printing or Plotting from a Graphics Screen
Printing from a Display List Screen
Printing or Plotting from Other Screens
Using GRAPHICS.COM for Graphics Screen Dump to Printer

DISPLAYEXAMPLES ..........................................................

DisplayingaGraphfromaDataFiIe

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4-l
4-2
4-3
4-3
4-6
4-16
4-16
4-18
4-30
4-30
4-33
4-37
4-37

4-37
4-40
4-40
4-40
440
4-40

4.7.2

4.7.3

4.7.4

4.7.5

4.7.6

Graphical Analysis Example
GraphOverlay
SecondYAxis(Y2)Graphing
ListingData
Printing/PlottingData

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SECTION 5 - File Operations

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4-42

446
4-48
4-48

5.1

5.2

5.2.1 TestSetupFiles

5.2.2

5.2.3

5.2.4 Import/ExportFormatFiles

5.2.5

5.3

5.4

5.5 RENAMINGnES

5.6 DELETINGFnES

5.7 EXPORT/IMPORTDATA

5.7.1

5.7.2

5.7.3

5.7.4

INTRODUCTION
FILETYPES

DataFiles

InstrumentConfigurationFiles

DefaultDirectories
LOADINGFILES
SAvINGFnES

ExportData

ImportFiles

Export/Import Data Format
ASCIIExport/ImportDataFormat

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SECTION 6 - Test Sequencer

6.1

6.2

6.3

6.3.1

6.3.2

6.3.3

6.3.4

6.3.5

6.3.6

63.7

6.3.8

6.4

6.5

6.6

~ODU~ON
TESTSEQUENCEROVERVIEW

TESTSEQUENCEFILE

TestSequenceGrammar

MessageS~eens
METACommands

TESTCommand.. ...........................................................

LOOP...ENDLOOPComman d

CONFIGCommand

PROMpTCommand

707FILECommand..
PARSER
ERRORFnES

SAMPLETESTSEQUENCE . . . . ..-...............................................

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5-l
5-l
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-3
5-3
5-3
54
5-5
5-5
5-5
5-6
5-6
5-7
S-10

6-l
6-l
6-2
6-2

65
6-5
6-6
6-8
6-10
6-10
6-12
6-13
6-14
6-14

A SoftwareStructure .............................................................

B
C
D

ErrorMessages
Model 2361 Trigger Controller

TestLibrary ..................................................................

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A-l
B-l
C-l
D-l

List of Illustrations

SECTION 2 - Getting Started

Figure 2-l
Figure 2-2

Figure 2-3
Figure 2-4
Figure 2-5
Figure 2-6
Figure 2-7
Figure 2-8
Figure 2-9
Figure 2-l 0
Figure 2-l 1

Figure 2-12
Figure 2-13
Figure 2-14
Figure 2-15
Figure 2-16
Figure 2-17

Figure 2-l 8
Figure 2-l 9
Figure 2-20
Figure 2-21

BlockDiagramofTestSystemwithModel251Software

Model 2361 Trigger Controller Front and Rear Panels

Single Unit Connections with Model 8006 Test Fixtures
Single Unit Connections with Model 8002A Test Fixture (Local Sense only)
Multiple Unit Signal and Interlock Connections - Local Sense
Multiple Unit Signal and Interlock Connections - Remote Sense
Multiple Unit Trigger and Bus Connections
Example Signal Connections with Model 213

Example SignaI Connections with Model 7072
Model 213 DIP Switch Factory Defaults
Copy Protection Block
Example of MODEL25KFG File

MainMenuScreen ........................................................

MainMenuOptions .......................................................

HelpIndexScreen
GPIB Configuration Form Screen
Define Instruments Form Screen
Schematic for Diode Forward Biased I-V Characteristics
Diode Forward Biased I-V Characteristics

Schematic for NPN Transistor Common Emitter Curve Family
NPN Transistor Common Emitter Curve Family

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2-4
2-6
2-7
2-8
2-9
2-10

2-l 1
2-12
2-14
2-16
2-18
2-19
2-23
2-25
2-26
2-27
2-29

2-30
231
2-32

SECTION 3 - Measurements

Figure 3-l
Figure 3-2
Figure 3-3
Figure 3-4
Figure 3-5
Figure 3-6
Figure 3-7

Figure 3-8
Figure 3-9
Figure 3-10
Figure 3-l 1
Figure 3-12
Figure 3-13

DEFINE INSTR UMENTsForm
Model 2361 Rear Panel DIP Switch

CURVEFAMILYTESTForm ................................................

Curves per Family versus Points per Curve
Sample Single Channel Test Parameters
Sample MuItichannel Test Parameters
DC SOURCE-MEASURE Test Form
Sample DC Source-Measure Test Parameters
GENERAL GPIB OUTPUT Form

Model 236/237/238 Serial PoII Byte Format
Uploading and Storing Setups
Leading and Downloading Setups
CheckingStatusofModel213

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...................................... 3-33

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3-6
3-7

3-10
3-15

3-18
3-20
3-24
3-29
331

3-34
3-34
3-38

SECTION 4 - Data Display

Figure 41 DISPLAY PARAME
Figure 42 Colors/Curve Labels Window
Figure 43
Figure 44
Figure 4-5
Figure 46
Figure 47 Example Plot with Markers Activated
Figure 48

Figure 49
Figure 410
Figure 411 A.
Figure 411
Figure 412
Figure 413
Figure 414
Figure 415
Figure 416
Figure 417
Figure 418

Figure 419
Figure 420
Figure 421

DCGainWindow

Differential Gain Menu .....................................................

OverlayFormMenu

Graphics Display Screen ....................................................

Example Plot with Line Feature Activated

Horiz. zo,om Example ......................................................

OverlayExample

Non-inverted and Inverted Curves .........................................

Non-inverted and Inverted Curves (Cont.) ...................................

B.
List Mode Display Parameters Screen (Curve Test)

Curve Data List Display ....................................................

L&t Mode Display DC Parameters Screen

ListDisplayScreenFormatforDCTest

Plot Graph Example .......................................................

PrintGraphExample
Typical Plotting Example Using NPNCRV.DAT
Example Plot Showing Lines and Markers

Graph Overlay Example ....................................................

Gummel Plot Example .....................................................

TEES Screen (Graphics Mode)

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44
49
4-11
4-13
4-15
4-16
4-19
4-22
4-24
426
428
4-29

431
4-32
4-33
435
4-38
4-39
442
4-44
4-46
4-47

SECTION 5 - Data Display

Figure 5-l
Figure 5-2
Figure 53

FileExportFormat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Actual Example of File Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Model 251 V2.00 ASCII Import/Export File . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SECTION 6 - Test Sequencer

Figure 6-l

Test Execute Flow Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5-8
5-9
5-11

6-7

List of Tables

SECTION 1

Table 1-l

- General Information

Computer Hardware Requirements

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SECTION 2 - Getting Started

Table 2-l

Table 2-2

Table 2-3
Table 2-4
Table 2-5
Table 2-6 AvailableFunctionKeys..
Table 2-7 Typical Interrupt Line Assignments
Table 2-8 System Troubleshooting Summary

Signal and Interlock Cables

IEEE-488 Boards and Default Configurations

Model 251 Errors Messages on Start-up
Supported Configurations for Peripheral Devices

LoadandSaveFileTypes

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SECTION 3 - Measurements

Table 3-l
Table 3-2

Table 3-3 Uploading and Downloading Support for Instruments

EditingKeyFunctions
Order of User Actions

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......................................................

SECTION 5- File Operations

.............................

l-3

24

2-15

2-20
2-21

2-24

2-25
2-27
2-31

3-4
3-35
3-35

Table 5-l
Table 5-2

FileType . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Typical Default Directories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . f. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5-2
53

SECTION 1

General Information

1 .i INTRODUCTION

This section contains overview information for the
Model 251 I-V Test Software system and is arranged as
follows:

1.2 Features

1.3 Warranty Information

1.4 Manual Addenda

1.5 Safeiy!i$nbols and Terms

--- --r

1.7 Computer Requirements

‘0 ..a... a...y~~.a.“‘S

1.2 FEATURES

Model 251 I-V Test Software is a program that controls a
system of instruments designed to measure I-V charac­teristics of semiconductors. Model
to support the following instruments:

l

Model 236/237/238 Source Measure Units

e Model 2361 Trigger Controller

l

Model 213 Quad Voltage Source

l

Model 707 Switching Matrix

251 can

be configured

Other Keithley and non-Keithley instruments are sup­ported with user-programmed device-dependent com­mands.

Key Model 231 features include:

l

The menu-driven software allows easy data collection
of parameters from semiconductors and other compo­nents. No computer programming knowledge is nec­essary to operate the system

l

The data is displayed on the computer monitor and
can be printed or plotted on a hardcopy peripheral.

l

craphi& analysis caiabilit& i&cl&e m&kers, line
slope, zooming, and smoothing.

l

A library of tests is included for resistors, capacitors,
diodes, bipolar transistors, and FEIS. Test setup and
sample data files are included on disk.

l

A test sequencing procedure lets you chain multiple
tests without operator interventions.

l

Full Model 213 support provides an easy method of in­terfacing a four-channel voltage bias source.

l

Model 707 support for uploading and downloading of
up to 100 setups expands the capability to run multiple
tests on multiple devices.

l

The Model 2361 Trigger Controller that is available
simplifies trigger connections and optimizes trigger
response times among the source measure units.

l-l

SECTION 1

General Information

1.3 WARRANTY INFORMATION

Warranty information is located on the inside front cover

of this instruction manual. Should you require warranty

service, contact your Keithley representative or the fac-

tory for further information.

1.4 MANUAL ADDENDA

Any improvements or changes concerning Model 251 I-V
Test Software or this instruction manual will be ex­plained on a separate addendum supplied with the docu­mentation. Please be sure to note these changes and in­corporate them into the manual before operating the sys­tem.

1.5 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND TERMS

The following safety symbols and terms may be found on
the instruments or used in this manual:

A

The ’

should consult the operating instructions in the associ­ated manual.

symbol on an instrument indicates that you

A CAUTION heading outlines dangers that could dam­age an instrument. Such damage may invalidate the war­ranty.

1.6 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

1.6.1

Upon receiving the Model 251, carefully unpack it from
the shipping carton and inspect all items for any obvious
physical damage. Report any such damage to the ship­ping agent at once. Save the original packing carton for
possible future reshipment.

1.6.2

The following items are included with every Model 251

order:

Model 251 distribution disks (XM-byte, 5-l/4” and
72OK-byte, 3-l /2”)
Copy protection block
Model 251 Instruction Manual

Unpacking Procedure

Shipment Contents

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

ages.

A WARNING heading in this and other manuals cau­tions against possible hazards that could lead to personal
injury or death. Always read the associated information
very carefully before performing the indicated proce­dure.

NOTE
Model 251 distribution disks are available
upon request in the 36OK-byte, 5-l/4” format.
Contact Keithley’s Applications department.

1.6.3 Instruction Manual

If an additional instruction manual is required, order the
manual package, 251-901-00. The manual package in­cludes an instruction manual and any applicable ad­denda.

l-2

General Informafion

SECTION 2

1.7 COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS

The following paragraphs discuss minimum and recom­mended computer requirements, supported interface
cards, printers, and plotters.

1.7.1 Computer Hardware

Model 251 I-V Test Software is intended to run on an IBM
Personal System/2 (80386) or IBM compatible 80386
computer. Table l-l summarizes the computer configu­ration.

NOTE
Although Model 251 software will run on an
80286-based computer, an 80386based com­puter is recommended for speed considera­tions.

1.7.2

The computer must be equipped with a suitable IEEE-488

interface so that it can communicate with the instru­ments. IEEE-488 interfaces supported by Model 251 soft­ware are listed below:

IEEE-488 Interfaces

IBM GPIB board
ICS 488-PC1
IOtech GP488, Gl’488/2
Keithley PC-488-CEC, 4-488-CEC-OM, 4-488-CEC-lM,

PS-488-CEC
MetraByte IE-488
National Instruments GPIB-PC, GPIB-PCII,

GPIB-PCJIA, GPIB-PCm, MC-GPIB, AT-GPIB
Qua Tech MXI-100, MXI-1000
Scientific Solutions IEEE 488 LM, MC-IEEE 488
ziatech ZT 1444, zT/2

1.7.3

To obtain hard copies of your curves, it will be necessary
for you to connect a suitable printer (serial or parallel) or
plotter (serial or IEEE-4881 to your computer. Compatible
printers and plotters for Model 251 software are as fol­lows:

Printers
IBM Graphics Printer, Epson or compatible

HP LaserJet
IBM Proprinter
Okidata Microline 182

Printers and Plotters

Advantech PCL 748
B&C PC488A
BBS GPIB-1000
Capital Equipment PCc488,4x488, PSo488
Contec GPIB (PC)
Hewlett Packard HPlB

Table l-l.

Description
Computer
Coprocessor

Disk drives
Monitor/graphics card
Mouse
Operating system

Requirements

IBM compatible 80386 with parallel port
64OKB conventional memory (53OKB free), 1MB of LlM expanded memory
Intel 80387
Hard drive, 72OKB 3-l /2” or 1.2MB 5-l /4” floppy drive
EGA or VGA color, VGA monochrome
Microsoft or Lotitech mouse
MS-DOS or PC-“m 3.2

Plotters

HP 7440
HP 7470
HP 7475

Computer Hardware Requirements

l-3

SECTION 2

Getting Stc[&cJ

2.1 INTRODUCTION

5eciion 2 contains introductory information to help you
get your system up and
Section 3 contains more detailed information on using
the Model 251 I-V Test Software.

5ection 2 is organized as follows:

22 Hardware Configuration: Details the system hard­ware contiguration, cable connections, and trigger con­troller.

2.3 System Power-up: Covers the power-up procedure
for a typical system, environmental conditions, and
warm-up periods.

2.4 Computer Hardware and Software Installation:
Outlines installing the IEEE-488 interface and Model 251
software, including configuring the software for a graph­ics adapter, printer, and plotter.

2.5 Operation Overview: Describes the overall structure
of the Model 251 I-V Test Software and details configur­ing the software for the IEEE-488 interface and instru­ments.

2.6 System Checkout: Gives the procedure for checking
out the system to ensure that everything is working prop­erly, including

running sample tests.

running as quickly as possible.

2.2 HARDWARE CONFIGURATION

2.2.1

An overall block diagram of a system for running Model
251 software is shown in Figure 2-l. This configuration
with two source measure units, a quad voltage source,
and a switching card and mainframe, is a typical system
with switching, yours may differ. The various system
components perform the following functions:

Model 236/237/238 Source Measure Units - Each
source measure unit can source voltage and simultane­ously measure current, or source current and simultane
ously measure voltage. One unit is necessary to run two­terminal device tests, while two units are required to run
bipolar transistor and FET tests. If a substrate bias is re­quired, a third source measure unit, a quad voltage
source, or a current or voltage source will be necessary.

Model 2361 Trigger Controller - A Model 2361 Trigger
Controller is a bus-programmable instrument that is re­quired for all tests where more than one source measure
unit is configured to measure (including synchronized
sweeps). The unit can handle the triggering needs of up
to six source measure units. It not only simplifies system
trigger connections, but it also coordinates the trigger
schemes needed for ah tests. The front and rear panels of
the Model 2361 are shown in Figure 2-2. Refer to Appen­dix C for more information on the Model 2361.

System Block Diagram

2-l

SECTION 2

Getting Started

Model 213 Quad Voltage Source - The Model 213 is a
quad output digital to analog converter interface for the
IEEE-488 bus. Each port can be programmed for full scale
output of *lV, i5V, or flOV.

Model 707 Switching Matrix - The Model 707 is a pro­grammable switch for connecting signal paths in a matrix
or multiplex topology. It is for large-scale switching ap­plications (up to 576 crosspoints per mainframe). Plug-in
cards are available for general purpose and special pur­pose switching.

Model 8006 Component Test Fixture -The test fixture is
the interface between the DUT (device under test) and
the instruments. The Model 8006 includes sockets for ax­ial-component, TO packages, and 24-pin DIP package de­vices. A Model 8007 Semiconductor Test Fixture or a us­er-supplied test fixture could also be used.

Computer - An IBM F’S/2 (or compatible), or a
386-based computer, equipped with an IEEE-488 inter­face card, controls the test sys tern.

SECTION 2

Getting Started

Figwe2-2.

m i

I I

II

I

HI I

L

MO&l 251 sonwara

0

0

Q&l

IBM AT, P.Y2 (or compafibb).
ora336+wdoompufsrtih

fdOl@S:

4. subosse~ Of Model 707 swwing Maftfx.

0

Cwnputer

IEEE-488 Inferfaa

1. signal conlwctiotls mada wifh kdel707fJ-TRX Tfiax cabbs.
2 1-r connecUonr male wifh Model 7OWCoax Cab!+%

3. IEEE-483 contwclionr mada wifh Model 7007 Inferfax C&k

(

Semiconductor Matrix Card

I -1

IN OUT

>

IN OUT

Block Diagram of Test System with Model 251 Software

I-

t I

CHl

. Modsl23s1

Trlggsf Controller

CH4

t I

IN OUT IN OUT

CH2

CH5

IN OUT IN OUT

CH3

CHfi

J

2-3

SECl’TOiVP

Getting Started

2361 Front Panel

2361 Rear Panel

Figure 2-2. Model 2361 Front and RearPanels

Table 2-l. Signal and Interlock Cables

Model
7078TRX
236-TLC-3
7051

707&TRx-

Description Application

0.9m (also 3m or 6m) low noise triax cable
3m shielded cable

0.6m (also 1.5m or 3m) BNC cable fRG38C) Trigger

3-slat male triax to BNC adapter

BNC

7007

lm (also 2m) shielded IEEE-488 cable

Signal connections between 236/237/238,7072 and
8006or8002A
Interlock

co~eCtions

between 236/237/238 and

8006or8OOL4

COM~C~~OIIS

2361; unguarded signal

between 236/237/238 and

COMWtiOIlS

Unguarded signal connections between
236/237/238,7072 and coax cables

IEEE-488 instrument bus

2.2.2

System Connections

Table 2-l summarizes the necessary cables for a test sys-

tem with Model 236/237/238 Source Measure Units, a
Model 2361 Trigger Controller, a Model 707 Switching
Mainframe with a Model 7072 Semiconductor Matrix
Card, and a Model 8006 or 8002A Test Fixture.

24

Using Figure 2-3 and Figure 2-4 as a guide for a single
source measure unit, and Figure 2-5 through Figure 2-7
for multiple source measure units, connect the equip­ment together as shown. For test systems using a Model
213 Quad Voltage Source or a Model 7072 Semiconductor
Matrix Card, see Figure 2-8 and Figure 2-9.

SECTION 2

Getting Started

WARNING
All equipment should be turned off when
making connections.

WARNING

Safety interlocks must be

used

to protect the
operator from potentially lethal voltages
that could result in injury or death. Keithley
source measure units are designed to be used

with test fixtures that incorporate a safety in­terlock switch, such as the Keithley Model
8006 Test Fixture. By using the interlock, the
source measure unit cannot source current or
voltage when the lid of the test fixture is
open. Refer to paragraph 2.3 in the Model
23612371238 Operatois Manual for more in­formation on interlock usage for the Model

8006 and custom test fixtures.

WARNING
The test fixtures must be connected to safety
earth ground using 818 AWG or larger wire.

To simplify test connections, most examples in this man­ual use local sensing for the source measure units. Local

sensing requires connecting only two signal cables be­tween the source measure unit and the test fixture (OUT­F’UT HI and OUTPUT LO). Also, the appropriate mp­ers between the test fixture signal panel and the compo-

nent test module must be installed.

To optimize accuracy, you should use remote sensing in
any of the examples (remote sensing is recommended for
optimal accuracy with currents above ImA). To use re­mote sensing,

connect

SENSE HI and SENSE LO to the

test fixture, and add the necessary jumpers to the DUT.

See Section 2 of the Model 236/237/238 Operator’s Man-

ual for complete details on test connections.

WARNING
With remote sensing enabled, an open sense
lead will result in lethal voltages appearing
at OUTPUT HI and, GUARD. This voltage
can cause injury

or

death, and damage exter­nal circuitry. Always make sure that the
sense leads are properly connected before
enabling remote sense. NEVER change con­nections with power applied. Be sure to al-

ways discharge and/or disconnect external
power sources.

2-s

SECTION 2

A. Local Sense

source Measure Unit 1

I I

7007 IEEE468

l%tM

To IEEE438 Interfisca
of Computer

Figure 2-3.

2-6

I

Source Measure Unit

6. Remote Sense

Single Source Measure Unit Connections with Model 8006 Test Fixtures

To IEEE- Intedaa
of czoqwter

8002A Test Fixture

1

------ 1

I-

Source Measure Unit

Not.: Setfbttunswflohfor

sounx nmasum opnraffon.

WARMNQ : Safe oaftmfbn rwuinr the use of

ctewbsafatveafthamu

.-.

_ _..__. -

700;7lE&E48Ei

SECTION 2

Getting Started

e g;;ol-488

of Computer

Figure24

Single Source Measure Unit Connections with Model 8002A Test Fixture @ma1 Sense only)

2-7

SECTION 2

Getting Started

WARNINQ : Safetv interbxks

-SImdadJunlm

Not. : Jumpers am shown for

03mmon-emitter curves
urkg local SeXI.

+707&TRx

Figure 2-5.

Triax Cabkr

Sourca Measure Unit #2

1

t-

236-lLC-3
klmdookcabls

Transistor
Under -rest

Source Measure Unit #3

SocketPimuts: 1 -Etaso (Unit 1)

Multiple Source Measure Unit Signal and Interlock Connections - Local Sense

3 - yieco (Unit 2)

I

Notei To ptwent ground loops.

only on* some measure
unit Shou!d have the Qmund
link connect&g OUTPUT LO
to earth amund. usuallv the
unit thatsupplies pow& to
the base (or gate) of a
remiconduotor.

2-8

SECTION 2

Gefting Sfarfed

Model 8008

23WLC-3
InterId C&k

Source Measure Unit 81

Test Fixture

terminals

common-emitter curves

I

-8MdrrdJurpwr

--Jurprr

r-z

using mmte sense.

?gure 2-6.

IL

236-lLC-3
InMock C&la

Source Measure4 Unit x3

Multiple Source Measure Unit Signal and Interlock Connections - Remote Sense

ScdwtPinout8: 1 =Base

NOW: To prevent gmurd loop.

; = h&o (Unit 2)

I

only ona souma masure
unit slwkl havcr tlw gmund
link mnneoGng OUTPUT LO
I0 earth gmund. usualy me
unk that supplii paver to

(Unit 1)

2-9

SECTION 2

Getting Started

7051 BNC cables

r

~IIIII

II

Model 213 Quad Voltage Source

To IEEE-488
lnterfaca

\

of Computer

Modal 2361 Trigger Controller

I

Source Measure Unit

7007 IEEE-488
cables

I

I

Source Measure Unit

I

r

I !

Sourca Maasum Unlt

Notee : 1. Conneot TFttGGER OUT of source

messura unit to CHANNEL IN
of t@Qer c0ntroiler.

2 Conneot CHANNEL OUT of tr&er

controller to TRIGGER IN of
soura measure unft.

Figure 2-7.

2-10

Model 707 Switching Matrix

Multiple Unit Trigger and Bus Connections

WARNING : Safety inbxla
must be used to pmtect
the operator fmm potenlial
lelhal voltages.

SECTlON 2

Getting Started

Source hhasure Unit Wl

I

‘707ETRx
Tliax oables

Source Measure Unit Y2

,

I
I

I

Model 213 Quad Voltaae Source

Banana Cables -

Noto : Jumpers

common-emitter curves

- StsMard Jumrws

-Gw&mtJwrpen

\ ,.

/

MOSFET
Under Test

Socket Pinouts : 1 I Drain

Note: To plwrNlt ground loops.

2=Gate

I

3 Substrate l?A’f)213)
4-soulcfl

only one sour03 measure

unit should have the ground
link connectiq OUTPUT LO

to earth gmund. usually +Jw

unit

that supplies power to
the base (or gate) of
semiconduotor.

am

shown for

using local sense.

(Unit 2)

a

Figure 2-8.

Example Signal Connections with Model 213

2-11

SECTION 2

Getting Started

Model 8006 Test Fixture

terminals

X18

lyaied

707BTAX

Trlax Cables

II

Source

I I,

@ .’

A

Measure Unit #3

c- z3wLc-3

lntedookceblr

I

!

--JIMQMIX

-auudedJ~mpm

I

Noto: Jumpers am shown
fXd$b3~NBS USit-kJ

!?gure 2-9.

2-12

Example Signal Connections with Model 7072

SECTION 2

Gettim Started

2.3 SYSTEM POWER-UP

2.3.1

The Model 236/237/238 Source Measure Units are de-

signed to operate from 105-125V or 210~250V line power
ranges. A special transformer may be instaIled (at the fac­tory) for 90-1lOV and 195~235V ranges. A slide switch on
the rear panel indicates the present operating voltage. If
the line voltage needs to be changed, refer to the Model
236/237/23S Operator’s Manual.

Both the Model 2361 Trigger Controller and Model 213
Quad Voltage Source operate from 90-125V or 180-250V
line power ranges. The present operating voltage is indi­cated on the rear panel. If the line voltage needs to be
changed, a slide switch is located inside the unit (refer to
Appendix B or the appropriate instruction manual).

The Model 707 Switching Matrix operates from 105125V
or 210-250V line power ranges. It can be rewired at the
factory for the 90-1lOV and 180-220V ranges. A slide

switch on rear panel indicates the selected line voltage.
To change the selection, refer to the Model 707 Switching
Matrix Instruction Manual.

Instrument Power Requirements

WARNING
As a safety precaution, it is recommended
that all instruments in a rack be connected to
a single power outlet strip. The strip should
be wired to a panel-mounted emergency
stop switch within easy access of the user. A

red push-pull mushroom switch should be
mounted to the top front of the instrument
rack. The switch must be UL recognized and
have sufficient break current capacity for the
load. To specify the break current of the
switch, add up the total VA of the rack in­struments and divide by the line voltage.
Multiply the total by 125% to yield the mini­mum break current specification for an in­ductive load.

2.3.3 Environmental Conditions

For maximum accuracy, all measuring instruments and
the test fixture must be operated at an ambient tempera­ture between 18 and 28°C at a relative humidity less than
70%. (See specifications in Models 236/237/238 Opera­tofs Manual.)

2.3.4

Warm-up Period

CAUTION
Do not attempt to operate an instrument on a
supply voltage outside the allowed range, or
instrument damage may occur.

2.3.2

Each instrument should be connected to a grounded AC
outlet using the supplied AC power cord or the equiva­lent.

Power Connections

WARNING
Each instrument must be connected to a
grounded outlet to ensure protection from
electric shock Failure to use a grounded out­let and a 3-wire power cord may result in per­sonal injury or death because of electric
shock.

The system can be used immediately when all instru-

ments are

tem accuracy, all instruments should be turned on and al­lowed to warm up for at least one hour before use.

2.3.5

Follow the general procedure below to power up a Model
251 I-V Test system:

1. Connect the instruments together as outlined in

2 Examine the rear panel DIP switches on the Model

3. Turn on each instrument by pressing in its power

first turned on, however, to achieve rated sys-

Power-up Procedure

paragraph 2.2.3.
2361 and Model 213. Set switches to desired

IEEE-488 bus addresses. The factory default setting
(15) of the Model 2361 is shown in Figure 2-2. The de­fault setting (9) of the Model 213 is shown in
Figure 2-10.

switch. Verify that each instrument goes through its
normal power-up routine, as described below.

2-13

SECTION 2

Geffing Sfarfed

OX16

-0

1x0 -6

0x4 -0

0x2 -0
IX1 + -1

IEEEJ89Address I 9

i

Figure 2-10. Model 213 DIP Switch Facto y Defaults

-

self test. If it is not, cycle power on the instrument. (Com­plete details on the power-up sequence are in the Model
236/237/238 Operator’s Manual.)

The instrument will operate at a line frequency of 50 or

6OHz. To check the line frequency setting, press the
MENU button and rotate the knob until the line fre­quency is displayed. The alternate line frequency can be
selected by displaying it with the SELECT buttons and
then pressing ENTER. To exit from the menu, press the

MENU button.

To change the IEEE-438 bus address, press the MENU
button and rotate the knob until the bus address is dis­played. Key in the desired address and press ENTER. Ex­amples in this manual will assume unit #l at address 16,
unit #2 at address 17, and unit #3 at address 18. To exit
from the MENU, press the MENU button.

WARNING
In a multiple source measure unit test sys­tem, make sure all the Model 236/237/23t3s re­main powered up. Turning off one or more
Model 236l237I2389 may result in erratic in-

terlock operation. For example, if any unit is
turned off, an operational Model 236/237/238
may not go into standby when the lid of the
system test fixture is opened. This condition
exposes the operator to potentially lethal
voltages that could result in injury or death.

Model 2361 Power-up
The instrument first turns on all LEDs. If the self-test di-

agnostic passes, all LEDs but the one for ROWER turn off,
and the unit is ready for normal operation. If the self-test
diagnosticfails,theLEDswillindicatetheproblem,asex­plained in Appendix C.

Model 236/237/238 Power-up

The source measure units perform a self-test at power­up, then display a model number, software revision, and
IEEE-488 address.

Model 213 Power-up
All the front panel LEDs should light for approximately

one second while the unit performs an internal ROM and
RAM self-test. At the end of this self-test, all indicators
should turn off except POWER Flashing LEDs or the ER­ROR LED indicate failure of the self-test. Refer to the
Model 213 Instruction Manual for details.

Model 707 Power-up

The Model 707 will perform a power-up self-test to check
ROM, RAM, card configuration, stored setups, master/

slave loop, indicators, and displays. It will then show the

software revision level and IEEE-488 bus address. (See

the Model 707 Instruction Manual for a listing of error
messages.) When the self-test has completed, the Model
707 is configured with:

l

All relays opened.

l

RELAYS indicator lit.

l

RELAYsTErtoOoo.

. MEMORYSTEl’toOOl.

The MANUAL TRIGGER LED on the front panel should

be blinking when the source measure unit completes its

2-14

To change the IEEE-488 bus address, press the MENU
key until the present address is displayed. Use the data
entry keys to key in a new value, then press ENTER. This
action will also exit menu mode.