The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any
associated instrumentation. Although some instruments and accessories would normally be
used with nonhazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous conditions may be
present.
This product is intended for use by personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar
with the safety precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all ins
operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the product. Refer to the user
documentation for complete product specifi cations.
If the product is used in a manner not specifi ed, the protection provided by the product
warranty may be impaired.
The types of product users are:
Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of
equipment, for ensuring that the equipment is operated within
limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.
Operators use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety
procedures and proper use of the instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and
contact with hazardous live circuits.
Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating
properly, for example, setting the line vol
procedures are described in the user documentation. The procedures explicitly state if the
operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.
Service personnel are trained to work on live circuits, perform safe installations, and
repair products. Only properly trained service personnel may perform installation and
service procedures.
Keithley products ar
and data I/O connections, with low transient overvoltages, and must not be directly connected
to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient overvoltages. Measurement
Category II (as referenced in IEC 60664) connections require protection for high transient
e designed for use with electrical signals that are measurement, control,
tage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance
its specifi cations and operating
tallation,
overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Certain Keithley measuring
instruments may be connected to
or higher.
Unless explicitly allowed in the specifi cations, operating manual, and instrument labels, do
not connect any instrument to mains.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on
cable connector jacks or test fi xtures. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30 V RMS, 42.4 V peak,
or 60 VDC are present. A good s
in any unknown circuit before measuring.
Operators of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible
body must ensure that operators are prevented access and/or insulated from every
connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential human contact.
Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk
of electric shoc
the circuit may be exposed.
Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended to be
used with impedance-limited sources. NEVER connect switching cards directly to AC mains.
When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective devices to limit fault current and
voltage to the card.
Before operating an instrument, ensure that the line co
power receptacle. Inspect the connecting cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear,
cracks, or breaks before each use.
When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack
mounting, a separate main input power disconnect device must be provided in close proximity
to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, tes
power is applied to the circuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system
and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting cables or jumpers,
installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or
removing jumpers.
k. If the circuit is capable of operating at or above 1000 V, no conductive part of
mains. These instruments will be marked as category II
afety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present
rd is connected to a properly-grounded
t cables, or a
ny other instruments while
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under
test or power line (earth) ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on
a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage being measured.
For safety, instruments and accessories must be used in accordance with the operating
instructions. If the instruments or accessories are used in a manner not specifi ed in t
operating instructions, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories. Maximum signal
levels are defi ned in the specifi cations and operating information and shown on the instrument
panels, test fi xture panels, and switching cards.
When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued
protection against fi re hazard.
Chassis c
onnections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as
protective earth (safety ground) connections.
If you are using a test fi xture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test.
Safe operation requires the use of a lid interlock.
If a screw is present, connect it to protective earth (safety ground) using the wire
recommended in the user documentation.
The symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of hazard. The user must refer to the
operating instructions located in the user documentation in all cases where the symbol is
marked on the instrument.
The symbol on an instrument means warning, risk of electric
precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.
The symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to
prevent burns.
The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.
f this symbol is on a product, it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please
I
note that the lamp must be properly disposed of according to federal, state, and local laws.
shock. Use standard safety
he
The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains hazards that might result
in personal injury or death. Always read the associated information very carefully before
performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading in the user documentation expla
instrument. Such damage may invalidate the warranty.
The CAUTION heading with the symbol in the user documentation explains hazards that
could result in moderate or minor injury or damage the instrument. Always read the associated
information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure. Damage to the instrument
may invalidate the warranty.
Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to huma
Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.
To maintain protection from electric shock and fi re, replacement components in mains circuits
— including the power transformer, test leads, and input jacks — must be purchased from
Keithley. Standard fuses with applicable national safety approvals may be used if the rating and
type are the same. The detachable mains power cord provided with the instrument may only be
replaced wi
be purchased from other suppliers as long as they are equivalent to the original component
(note that selected parts should be purchased only through Keithley to maintain accuracy
and functionality of the product). If you are unsure about the applicability of a replacement
component, call a Keithley offi ce for information.
Unless otherwise noted in product-specifi c literat
operate indoors only, in the following environment: Altitude at or below 2,000 m (6,562 ft);
temperature 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F); and pollution degree 1 or 2.
To clean an instrument, use a cloth dampened with deionized wat
cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply cleaner directly to the instrument
or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instr
no case or chassis (e.g., a data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never
require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the board becomes contaminated and
operation is aff ected, the board should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.
Safety precaution revision as of June 2017.
th a similarly rated power cord. Other components that are not safety-related may
ument. Products that consist of a circuit board with
ins hazards that could damage the
ns.
ure, Keithley instruments are designed to
er or mild, water-based
Safety
Power and environmental ratings
CAUTION
For indoor use only.
Power supply
Maximum VA
Operating altitude
Operating
temperature
Storage temperature
Pollution degree
DC source output
electrical ratings
100 V ac to 240 V ac, 50 Hz to 60 Hz
(autosensing)
240
Maximum 2,000 m (6,562 ft) above
sea level
0 °C to 35 °C at up to 70% relative humidity;
at 35 °C to 50 °C, derate 3% relative humidity
per °C
–25 °C to 65 °C
1 or 2
Voltage: 40 V dc maximum
Current: 3 A maximum at 6 V dc, 1 A maximum
at 40 V dc
Pulser feature
output, region 4
Region maximums: 10 A at 20 V
Maximum pulse width: 1.8 ms
Maximum duty cycle: 1%
Measurement
input electrical
ratings
Measurement category O
Voltage: 40 V dc maximum HI to LO
Current: 3 A at 6 V dc; 1 A maximum at
40 V dc
Impedance: Variable
Carefully consider and congure the appropriate
output‑o state, source levels, and compliance levels
before connecting the instrument to a device that can
deliver energy. Failure to consider the output‑o state,
source levels, and compliance levels may result in
damage to the instrument or to the device under test.
Introduction
The Model 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter® 10 μs
Pulser/SMU Instrument with PulseMeter™ technology is
an industry-leading high-current, high-speed pulser with
measure capabilities and the full functionality of a traditional
source-measure unit (SMU). This instrument oers 10 A
current pulse output at 10 V with a pulse width of 10 μs.
Complete documentation for the 2601B-PULSE instrument is
available for download on the Keithley web page at
tek.com/keithley.
The 2601B-PULSE documentation includes:
• Quick Start Guide: This document. It provides unpacking
instructions, describes basic connections, and reviews
basic operation information.
• User’s Manual: Includes installation, instrument
description, operation, and maintenance information.
• Reference Manual: Provides comprehensive information
about the features, optimization, troubleshooting, and
programming commands of the instrument.
• Information on accessories.
Software for the 2601B-PULSE is also available for
download from the Keithley web page at tek.com/keithley.
You can search for the specic software you need. Available
software includes:
• Keithley KickStart Instrument Control Software:
Lets you start making measurements in minutes without
complex instrument programming. Free 30-day trial.
• Test Script Builder: This software provides an
environment to develop a test program and the ability to
load the test program onto the instrument.
• IVI-COM Driver: An IVI instrument driver you can use
to create your own test applications in C/C++, VB.NET
or C#. It can also be called from other languages that
support calling a DLL or ActiveX(COM) object.
• LabVIEW™ Software drivers: Drivers to communicate
with National Instruments LabView Software.
• Keithley I/O layer: Manages communications between
Keithley instrument drivers and software applications and
the instrument.
Introduction
Unpack and inspect the instrument
To unpack and inspect the instrument:
1. Inspect the box for damage.
2. Open the top of the box.
3. Remove the documentation and accessories.
4. Carefully lift the instrument out of the box.
5. Inspect the instrument for any obvious signs of
physical damage. Report any damage to the shipping
agent immediately.
Y
ou receive the 2601B-PULSE with these accessories
and documents:
1 Interlock DB-25 male connector kit hardware
2 Power line cord
3 Safety interlock mating connector
4 Two RJ-45 LAN crossover cables
5 2601B-P-INT Rear Panel Interlock and Cable Connector
Box (not shown)
6 Safety supplement (not shown)
7 Safety precautions (not shown)
8 Software and documentation downloads document
(not shown)
9 Model 2601B-PULSE System SourceMeter Instrument
Quick Start Guide (this document; not shown)
12
34
Items shipped may vary from items pictured here.
Connect the instrument
Important test system safety information
This product is sold as a stand-alone instrument that may
become part of a system that could contain hazardous
voltages and energy sources. It is the responsibility of the
test system designer, integrator, installer, maintenance
personnel, and service personnel to make sure the system is
safe during use and is operating properly.
You must also realize that in many test systems a single
fault, such as a software error, may output hazardous signal
levels even when the system indicates that there is no
hazard present.
It is important that you consider the following factors in your
system design and use:
• The international safety standard IEC 61010-1 denes
voltages as hazardous if they exceed 30 V
42.4 V
locations. Keithley Instruments products are only rated for
dry locations.
• Read and comply with the specications of all instruments
in the system. The overall allowed signal levels may be
constrained by the lowest rated instrument in the system.
For example, if you are using a 500 V power supply with
a 300 V dc rated switch, the maximum allowed voltage in
the system is 300 V dc.
or 60 V dc for equipment rated for dry
PEAK
RMS
and
• Cover the device under test (DUT) to protect the operator
from ying debris in the event of a system or DUT failure.
• Make sure any test xture connected to the system
protects the operator from contact with hazardous
voltages, hot surfaces, and sharp objects. Use
shields, barriers, insulation, and safety interlocks to
accomplish this.
• Double-insulate all electrical connections that an operator
can touch. Double insulation ensures the operator is
still protected even if one insulation layer fails. Refer to
IEC 61010-1 for specic requirements.
• Make sure all connections are behind a locked cabinet
door or other barrier. This protects the system operator
from accidentally removing a connection by hand and
exposing hazardous voltages. Use high-reliability fail-safe
interlock switches to disconnect power sources when a
test xture cover is opened.
• Where possible, use automatic handlers so that operators
are not required to access the DUT or other potentially
hazardous areas.
• Provide training to all users of the system so that they
understand all potential hazards and know how to protect
themselves from injury.
• In many systems, during power up, the outputs may be in
an unknown state until they are properly initialized. Make
sure the design can tolerate this situation without causing
operator injury or hardware damage.
Unpack
NOTE
Install the 2601B‑P‑INT
To keep users safe, always read and follow all safety warnings
provided with each of the instruments in your system.
Install the instrument
You can use the 2601B-PULSE on a bench or in a rack. See
the instructions that came with your rack-mount kit if you are
installing the 2601B-PULSE in a rack.
To prevent damaging heat build-up and ensure specied
performance, make sure there is adequate ventilation and
airow around the instrument to ensure proper cooling. Do
not cover the ventilation holes on the top, sides, or bottom of
the instrument.
Position the instrument so that it is easy to reach any
disconnecting devices, such as the power cord and the
power switch.
The 2601B-PULSE is shipped with the 2601B-P-INT
Rear-Panel Interlock and Cable Connector Box. The
2601B-P-INT provides connections for an optional hardware
safety interlock and simplies test connections to the
2601B-PULSE.
To install the 2601B-P-INT:
1. Remove power connections from the 2601B-PULSE.
2. On the rear panel of the 2601B-PULSE, remove the
screws to the left of the CHANNEL A: DC/PULSE
terminal strip and to the right of the CHANNEL A:
DC terminal strip. Screw locations are shown in the
following gure.
Remove screws before
installing 2601B-P-INT
3. On the 2601B-P-INT terminal strip panel, use
Interlock
needle-nose pliers to position the INTERLOCK jumper.
Place it in the ENABLE slot if you are using an interlock
or in the DISABLE slot if you are not using the interlock.
4. Align the terminal strip panel of the 2601B-P-INT to the
terminal strips on the rear panel of the 2601B-PULSE, as
shown in the following gure.
5. Press the 2601B-P-INT connections rmly onto the
terminal strips on the rear panel of the 2601B-PULSE.
6. Use the two 6-32 × ½ in. screws provided with the
2601B-P-INT to secure it to the rear panel of the
2601B-PULSE.
Wiring the interlock
You can use the 2601B-P-INT and the 2601B-PULSE
digital I/O port or external wiring to make interlock
connections to an external device. When properly connected,
the output of the instrument turns OFF when a remote switch
is closed.
Refer to the Model 2601B-PULSE User’s Manual (document
number 2601B-PULSE-900-01) for detail on making interlock
connections.
Connect
Connect line power
WARNING
CAUTION
Connect power line cord
The 2601B-PULSE operates from a line voltage of 100 V
to 240 V at 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Line voltage is automatically
sensed (there are no switches to set). Make sure the
operating voltage in your area is compatible.
The power cord supplied with the 2601B‑PULSE
contains a separate protective earth (safety ground) wire
for use with grounded outlets. When proper connections
are made, the instrument chassis is connected to
power‑line ground through the ground wire in the power
cord. In the event of a failure, not using a properly
grounded protective earth and grounded outlet may
result in personal injury or death due to electric shock.
Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage
may cause damage to the instrument, possibly voiding
the warranty.
To connect line power:
1. Make sure the front-panel power switch is in the
o (O) position.
2. Connect the socket of the supplied power cord to the
power module on the rear panel.
Do not replace detachable mains supply cords with
inadequately rated cords. Failure to use properly rated
cords may result in personal injury or death due to
electric shock.
3. Connect the plug of the power cord to a grounded
ac outlet.
Turn on the instrument
Power switch ON position
Power-up sequence
Turn on the instrument by pressing the front-panel POWER
switch to the on (|) position.
When the instrument is turned on, you should see:
• A series of dots.
• All segments of the display light.
• A brief display showing the instrument model,
2601B-PULSE.
• Line frequency detection and other startup checks.
The entire power-up process takes approximately 30
seconds to complete. When initialization is complete,
you see the default display screen shown below.
AUTO
SrcA:+000.000mV LimA:1.00000 A
Connect
Test the instrument
control
The following test veries basic operation of the
2601B-PULSE. In this test, you will use the front-panel
controls shown below to source voltage and measure the
voltage output.
You do not need to connect a device under test (DUT) for
this test.
Navigation
wheel
SRC
key
MEAS
key
LIMIT
key
MODE
key
RANGE
keys
OUTPUT
ON/OFF
CURSOR
keys
Set source function, range, and level
1. Press the SRC key to display a blinking character in the
SrcA value eld. Conrm that mV is displayed; if not,
press the SRC key again.
2. While that character is still blinking, press the up or down
RANGE keys to select the 40 V range.
AUTO
After the range is selected, the screen is refreshed to
show the source value.
AUTO
SrcA:+00.0000 V LimA:1.00000 A
3. Press the CURSOR keys to move the cursor to the
10s digit.
4. Press the navigation wheel to enter EDIT mode.
The EDIT indicator appears in the upper left corner
of the display.
5. Turn the navigation wheel to set the source value to
Source value set to 20.0000 V
Source limit set to 10.0000mA
Measurement function set to voltage (V)
20.0000 V, then press the navigation wheel to enter
the selection and exit EDIT mode.
AUTO
SrcA:+20.0000 V LimA:1.00000 A
Set the source limit
1. Press the LIMIT key to display a blinking character in the
LimA value eld.
2. Press the down RANGE key to select the 10 mA limit
range. Verify that the source limit value in the LimA eld
is 10.0000 mA.
Set measurement function and range
1. Press the MEAS key until the V (voltage) measurement
function is selected. In the following gure, the
measurement function is set to V.
AUTO
SrcA:+20.0000 V LimA:10.0000mA
2. Press the AUTO key as many times as needed to select
the AUTO range function. When AUTO is selected, the
2601B-PULSE automatically selects the best range for
the measured value. You briey see the display shown
below, then the main display screen reappears.
SrcA:+20.0000 V LimA:10.0000mA
AUTO
AUTO
SrcA:+20.0000 V LimA:10.0000mA
AUTO
Test
Turn the output on
NOTE
Turn the output on by pressing the OUTPUT ON/
OFF control. The ON/OFF indicator LED lights and
measurements begin.
Observe measurements
Observe the measured voltage on the main area of
front-panel display. The readings should be very close to the
20 V source value.
Turn the output o
When you nish making measurements, turn the output
o by pressing the OUTPUT ON/OFF control. The output
indicator LED turns o.
These steps conrm basic functionality of your instrument.
Turn the instrument power OFF now.
To use the pulser feature, you must have remote
communications set up. Refer to the Model 2601B-PULSE User’s Manual (document number 2601B-PULSE-900-01) for
information on remote communications setup.
FAQs
Next steps
Where can I nd updated drivers or rmware?
For the latest drivers and additional support information, see
the Keithley Instruments support website.
To nd drivers that are available for your instrument:
1. Go to tek.com/product-support.
2. Enter 2601B-PULSE and select GO.
3. Select Software.
What should I do if I see an error message when I turn
the instrument on?
If an error message is displayed, press the EXIT (LOCAL)
key. The 2601B-PULSE will return to the default display
screen. For detailed information about error messages, see
“Errors and status messages” in the Model 2601B-PULSE Reference Manual.
For more information, refer to the Keithley Instruments
website, tek.com/keithley. You can nd support and
additional information about the instrument, including
the Model 2601B-PULSE User’s Manual and Model 2601B-PULSE Reference Manual.
FAQs and next steps
Contact information: 1-800-833-9200
For additional contacts, see https://www.tek.com/contact-us