Model 4200-SCS-PK1 Quick Start Guide
Safety precautions
Observe the following safety precautions 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 qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards
and are familiar with the safety precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read and
follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the
product. Refer to the user documentation for complete product specifications.
If the product is used in a manner not specified, 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 use and maintenance of
equipment, for ensuring that the equipment is operated within its specifications and
operating 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 voltage or replacing consumable
materials. Maintenance 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 Instruments products are designed for use with electrical signals that are rated
Measurement Category I and Measurement Category II, as described in the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664. Most
measurement, control, and data I/O signals are Measurement Category I and must not
be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient
overvoltages. Measurement Category II connections require protection for high
transient overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Assume all
measurement, control, and data I/O connections are for connection to Category I
sources unless otherwise marked or described in the user documentation. Main supply
voltage fluctuations not to exceed ±10% of the nominal voltage.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present
on cable connector jacks or test fixtures. 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 V DC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous
voltage is present 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 shock. If the circuit is capable of operating at or
above 1000 V, no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.
Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended
If a screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire
recommended in the user documentation.
the symbol is marked on the instrument.
This symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of electric shock. Use standard
safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.
This symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal
contact to prevent burns.
federal, state, and local laws.
carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the warranty.
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 cord is connected to a
properly-grounded power receptacle. Inspect the connecting cables, test leads, and
jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.
When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as
rack mounting, a separate main input power disconnect device must be provided in
close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments
while power is applied to the circuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from the
entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting
cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes,
such as installing or removing jumpers.
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the
circuit under test or power line (earth) ground. Always make measurements with dry
hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage
being measured.
The instrument and accessories must be used in accordance with its specifications and
operating instructions, or the safety of the equipment may be impaired.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories, as defined
in the specifications and operating information, and as shown on the instrument or test
fixture panels, or switching card.
When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued
protection against fire hazard.
Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits,
NOT as safety earth ground connections.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device
under test. Safe operation requires the use of a lid interlock.
This symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of danger. The user should refer
to the operating instructions located in the user documentation in all cases where
This symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.
If the mercury symbol is on a product, it indicates that mercury is present in the
display lamp. Please note that the lamp must be properly disposed of according to
WARNING This heading in the user documentation explains dangers that might result
in personal injury or death. Always read the associated information very
CAUTION This heading in the user documentation explains hazards that could
Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.
Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.
To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains
Power supply
100 V to 240 V AC, 50 Hz to 60 Hz
Maximum VA
1000 VA
Operating altitude
Maximum 2000 m above sea level
Operating
temperature
10 °C to 40 °C, 5% to 80% relative humidity non-condensing
Storage
circuits - including the power transformer, test leads, and input jacks - must be
purchased from Keithley Instruments. Standard fuses with applicable national safety
approvals may be used if the rating and type are the same. Other components that are
not safety-related may be purchased from other suppliers as long as they are equivalent
to the original component (note that selected parts should be purchased only through
Keithley Instruments to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product). If you are
unsure about the applicability of a replacement component, call a Keithley Instruments
office for information.
To clean an instrument, remove power from the instrument. Use a damp cloth or mild,
water-based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply cleaner
directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products
that consist of a circuit board with no case or chassis (e.g., 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 affected, the board
should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning and servicing.
Power and environmental specifications
For indoor use only.
temperature
Carefully consider and configure the appropriate output-off state,
and source and compliance levels before connecting the
instrument to a device that can deliver energy. Failure to consider
the output-off state, and source and compliance levels may result
in damage to the instrument or to the device under test.
−15 °C to +60 °C, 5% to 90% relative humidity
non-condensing
Introduction
The easy-to-use Model 4200-SCS Semiconductor Characterization
System performs lab grade DC and pulse device characterization,
real-time plotting, and analysis with high precision and sub-femtoamp
resolution. The 4200-SCS offers the most advanced capabilities
available in a fully integrated characterization system, including a
complete, embedded computer with a Microsoft Windows operating
system and mass storage. Its self-documenting point-and-click
interface speeds and simplifies the process of taking data, so users
can begin analyzing their results sooner.
CD-ROM contents
The CD-ROM that is included with your instrument contains:
Installation files for KITE. These can only be installed on the
Model 4200-SCS.
Manuals & Specs. PDFs of the User Manual, Reference
Manual, Technical Data, and Quick Start Guide documents.
Release Notes. The latest software release notes and license
agreement.
Application Notes. Application notes that demonstrate specific
applications.
Technical Notes. Specific technical information.
White Papers. General discussions of testing.
Data Sheets. Data sheets for the 4200-SCS and related
equipment. This also includes brochures and other information.
For additional support information, see
http://www.keithley.com/support.
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 bag that contains the documentation, standard
accessories, CD-ROMs, and optional accessories (such as
rack-mount hardware).
4. Remove the packaging insert.
5. Remove the 4200-SCS from the bottom.
Do not lift the 4200-SCS from the front bezel. Lifting the
instrument by the front bezel can cause instrument damage.
6. Inspect the instrument for any obvious signs of physical damage.
Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately.
In the 4200-SCS-PK1 bundle, you should have received the Model
4200-SCS Semiconductor Characterization System, with:
Model 4200-SMU medium power SMUs (two)
Model 4200-SCS KTE Interactive CD
Power line cord
Also included should have been the accessories in the photograph:
1 Model 4200-SCS-PK1 Quick Start Guide (this document)
2 Model 8101-PIV component test fixture with sample devices
3 Model 4200-RPC-2 remote PreAmp cables (one)
4 Model 4200-MTRX ultra low noise SMU triaxial cables (two)
5 Model 236-ILC-3 safety interlock cable
6 Model 4200-PA remote PreAmp
7 Model 4200-TRX-2 ultra low noise triaxial cables (two)
8 CAP-31 protective caps with triaxial connectors (two)
9 Model 4200-SCS User's Manual
Refer to the packing list for additional items that might have shipped
with your instrument.
Connect the instrument
Important test system safety information
This system contains instruments that can produce hazardous
voltages. It is the responsibility of the test system 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 defines voltages as
hazardous if they exceed 30 V RMS and 42.4 V peak, or 60 V DC
for equipment rated for dry locations. Keithley Instruments, Inc.
products are only rated for dry locations.
Read and comply with the specifications 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.
Make sure any test fixture 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.
Cover the device under test (DUT) to protect the operator from
flying debris in the event of a system or DUT failure.
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
specific 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 fixture cover is opened.
Where possible, use automatic handlers so operators are not
required to access the DUT or other potentially hazardous areas.
Provide training to all users of the system so 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.
To keep users safe, always read and follow all safety warnings
provided with each of the instruments in your system.
Install the instrument
The Model 4200-SCS can be used on a bench or in a rack. Please see
the instructions that came with your rack-mount kit if you are
installing the Model 4200-SCS in a rack.
Wiring the interlock
The Model 4200-SCS is provided with an interlock circuit that
must be positively activated for the high voltage output to be
enabled. The interlock facilitates safe operation of the equipment
in a test system. Bypassing the interlock could expose the
operator to hazardous voltages that could result in personal
injury or death.
Asserting the interlock allows the SMU and preamp terminals to
become hazardous. SMU and preamp terminals should be
considered hazardous even if the outputs are programmed to be
low voltage. Precautions must be taken to prevent a shock
hazard by surrounding the test device and any unprotected
leads (wiring) with double insulation for 250 volts, Category I.
See EN61010-1 safety standards for details.
If you need voltages greater than ±40 volts for testing, you must add
an interlock switch to the fixture. This ensures that hazardous
voltages are not present when the exterior enclosure of the fixture is
open. It also enables the Model 4200-SCS to output higher voltages
when the exterior enclosure of the fixture is closed.
When the safety interlock signal is asserted (the switch is closed and
the signal is connected to +12 V), all the voltage ranges of the SMUs
are functional. When the safety interlock signal is not asserted (the
switch is open), the 200 V range on the SMUs is disabled, limiting the
nominal output to ±40 V.
If you need voltages greater than ±40 volts, you must also connect
the exterior of the test fixture enclosure to protective earth (safety
ground). Take care to ensure that the wiring (FORCE, GUARD, and
SENSE) in the fixture does not electrically contact the exterior
enclosure.
There are low voltage and high voltage test fixtures for the Model
4200-SCS. Low voltage fixtures, such as the Model 8101-PIV that is
included with this bundle, are intended for applications that are less
than ±40 volts. For these applications, an interlock is not needed.
High-voltage test fixtures, such as the Keithley Instruments LR8028,
can be used with applications that are greater than ±40 volts. The test
fixture has a safety interlock switch connected to its lid. When the lid
is closed, the interlock circuit is closed (asserted), and SMU ±200 V
ranges are enabled. Conversely, the interlock circuit is open (deasserted) when the lid is open, and the SMU ±200 V ranges are
disabled. High-voltage test fixtures require extra precaution to ensure
there are no shock hazards.
For correct operation with the Model 4200-SCS, the test fixture
should have a normally open switch that is used for the interlock. An
open interlock condition occures when the switch is open.
For the examples shown in this quick start guide, you do not need to
use an interlock.
The Model 4200-SCS functions on all current ranges and up to ±40
volts without asserting the interlock. When the interlock is not
asserted, the maximum voltage on the SMU and preamp terminals is
not hazardous.
To connect the interlock cable:
1. Connect one end of the supplied interlock cable (part number
236-ILC-3) to the rear panel of the Model 4200-SCS. The
location of the rear panel connector is shown in the following
graphic.
Connections for testing
If you are testing discrete devices, you need a test fixture that is
equipped with 3-lug triaxial connectors. The Model 8101-PIV test
fixture that is included with the Model 4200-SCS-PK1 allows the
Model 4200-SCS to be connected to a discrete device.
For connections to a probe station for on-wafer testing, see the
Model 4200-SCS Reference Manual.
2. Connect the other end of the connector to the test fixture.
The outer shield of the triaxial cables connects the Model 8101-PIV to
the Model 4200 chassis, which connects to common.
Make keyboard and printer connections
Power up the instrument
1. Connect the printer connection to the USB port or the parallel
port, as needed for your printer.
2. Connect the keyboard to the USB port or to the mouse and
keyboard connector on the rear panel.
You can also connect an external monitor (user-supplied) to the
Model 4200-SCS.
Connect the test fixture and DUT to the 4200-SCS
To connect the test fixture and DUTs for the I-V test, see the I-V
Test section graphic “Make connections for the I-V test.”
The 4200-SCS operates from a line voltage of 100 V to 240 V at a
frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Make sure the operating voltage in
your area is compatible.
The power cord supplied with the Model 4200-SCS contains a
separate 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. Failure to use a 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 off (0) position.
2. Connect the socket of the supplied power cord to the power
module on the rear panel.
3. Connect the plug of the power cord to a grounded AC outlet.
4. Turn on the instrument by pressing the front panel POWER
switch to the ON (|) position. The instrument starts up and
loads the Microsoft Windows operating system and the Keithley
Interactive Test Environment (KITE) software.
The first time you start the KTE-Interactive software tool, the license
agreement is displayed. You must answer Yes to use the tool.
Make connections for the I-V test
If you are using the supplied test fixture, connect the MOSFET and
test fixture as shown in this diagram.
Item
Description
Qty
Notes
1
Model 4200-SCS system
1
2
Model 4200-TRX Ultra Low
2
Triaxial to triaxial cable that
5
Model 8101-PIV
1
7
Model 4200-SMU module
2
Noise PreAmp Triaxial
Cable
3 Model 4200-MTRX 1 Ultra low noise SMU
4 TG-439 nMOSFET (DUT) 1 Plug into the test socket
Component Test Fixture
6 Model 4200-PA Remote
PreAmp
connects 4200-PA to a test
fixture
triaxial cable (mini triaxial,
connects 4200 SMUs to a
test fixture)
that is labeled DC ONLY
1
Perform an I-V test on a MOSFET
To start a test:
1. The Project Navigator should be displayed when KITE starts.
If the Project Navigator is not displayed, open the View menu
and select Project Navigator.
2. Double-click vds-id (located under 4terminal-n-fet) to display
the Definition tab in the KITE Workspace.
The Definition tab, shown here, is where you define the test.
To define the test:
1. To change the setup for GNDU or a SMU, click FORCE
MEASURE to display a Settings dialog box. Settings should be:
SMU1: Provide a voltage step function for four different gate
voltages (2 V, 3 V, 4 V, and 5 V).
SMU2: Perform a 51-point sweep of drain voltage (0 V to 5
V) at each gate voltage. A current measurement is performed
at each voltage sweep point.
2. Change the settings as needed.
3. Click Save All (on the toolbar above the Definition tab).
Run the vds-id test
KITE can run a single test or a sequence of tests.
To run a single test, check the test and click it. The test should be
highlighted. When you click , only that test will run. For example,
in the following graphic, when you click , only the vds-id test will
run.
To run a sequence of tests, check the tests you want to run, then
check and click the device, subsite, or project item that contains the
tests.
For example, in the following graphic, when you click , all the
checked tests under 4terminal-n-fet will run:
In the following example, only one test is run.
To run the vds-id test:
1. In the navigator, double-click the vds-id test to highlight it and
display the data sheets for the test.
2. On the toolbar, click .
While the test is running, the Run Test button turns gray and the
Abort Test button turns red. In addition, the Measuring indicator
(on the lower right corner of the front panel) is on.
3. When the test is complete, the Run Test button turns green.
View results of the vds-id test
To view data from the vds-id test, you can use the data sheets, which
are similar to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.
To view the results of the vds-id test:
1. Click the Sheet tab for the test.
2. Select the tab below the data for the type of information you
would like to view:
Data: Displays the data.
Calc: Provides data manipulation and graphing tools similar
to Microsoft Excel.
Settings: Information about the last test that was executed.
Print the results of the vds-id test
You can print the Data, Calc, or Settings sheet.
To print one or a few sheets:
1. Select the sheet. You can also press Ctrl and select multiple
sheets to print.
2. Select File, then Print.
3. Choose Selected Sheets.
4. Click OK.
To print the all sheets:
1. Select File, then Print.
2. Choose Entire Workbook.
3. Click OK.
To export the information:
1. Open the worksheet that contains the data to be exported.
2. Select Save As ( in the upper right corner).
3. Choose Entire Workbook.
4. Click OK.
5. From the Save As dialog box, specify a file name and path. The
default directory path for exporting data is
C:\S4200\kiuser\export.
6. Click Save.
View the graph for the vds-id test
To display the graph for the vds-id test, click the Graph tab for the
test.
A sample graph is shown below. In this example, there are four I-V
curves – one for each gate voltage.
Customizing the graph
The graph was customized to include the Legend box and use
different colors for the graph series. These options are available
through the Graph Settings button.
To customize a gra ph:
1. Right-click the graph. The Graph Settings menu is displayed.
(You can also select the Tools menu and select Graph Settings.)
2. To include a Legend and Title, select those options from the
Graph Settings menu.
3. To use different colors for the graph series, select Graph
Properties, then select Series. The Data Series Properties dialog
box is displayed.
4. Select the colors for each series.
5. Click OK. The series and color information is displayed.
.
FAQs
My data looks odd or is wrong. What should I do?
Verify the connections from the instrument to the test fixture.
Also check the connections from the DUT to the test fixture
socket.
The Run Test button is not green
You cannot run the selected test if the Run Test button ( ) is not
green. This can occur:
If a test is still running.
The check box for the test is cleared.
Changes to the test setup were made but not saved.
If a selected test will still not run, click the Status tab for the test.
The tab provides status information for the test.
I cannot unplug the mini triaxial cable (Model 4200-MTRX)
from the SMU
The mini triaxial connector is a locking connector. To remove it,
pull the knurled part of the connector back.
A configuration error has been detected and I cannot launch
KITE
This occurs when the physical configuration does not match the
KCON-defined configuration or when there are communication
problems between instruments and the Model 4200-SCS. Run
KCON; from the Tools menu, select Validate Configuration to
verify the system configuration.
This can also occur if the PreAmp or RPM is removed or
reconnected. In this case, you must update the system
configuration. Run KCON; from the Tools menu, select Upgrade
PreAmp and RPM Configuration.
Note that PreAmps are SMU-specific. For example, a PreAmp that
is configured for SMU1 cannot be connected to SMU2.
Next steps
See the Model 4200-SCS Complete Reference, which is
preinstalled on your system. To access the Complete Reference,
click Help in the KITE menu. You can also press F1.
The Model 4200-SCS Complete Reference includes the following
documents:
Model 4200-SCS User Manual: Contains basic information
about using the system, plus application-based examples that
will help familiarize you with the instrument.
Model 4200-SCS Reference Manual: Provides detailed
information about all features of the instrument.
Application notes: Detailed applications that demonstrate
specific applications.
Data sheets: Technical data regarding the 4200-SCS and
related accessories.
Keithley Instruments website
See www.keithley.com for support and additional information
about the instrument
.
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