Tektronix 617 Reference manual

MODEL 617

PROGRAMMABLE ELECTROMETER

QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

This reference and programming guide contains condensed specifications, descriptions of the various features and information for using the Model 617.

Included with descriptions of each feature are brief operating instructions and some examples of typical uses.

Included with the programming information are several example programs utilizing some commonh, used controllers to get the Model 617 “up and running” on the IEEE-488 bus.

0 1984, Keithlay Instruments, Inc.

Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

Document Number 617903-N Rev. A

CONTENTS

CONDENSED SPECIFICATIONS MODEL617FEATURES IEEE-488 PROGRAMMING PROGRAMS.

DATA STORE OPERATION

USING HP-85 IBM PC orXT Personal Computer. [Using Keiffiley Model 8573 Interface) APPLE II {Using Apple Interface).

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HP.9816..........-.......-....-.~......~...--.....-.~. 48

DECLSIll ............................................

PETlCBM 2001

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7 35 41

CONDENSED SPECIFICATIONS

INPUT IMPEDANCE: >2OOTG in parallel with 2OpF (~2pF guarded).

Range Resolution

2PJ4 O.lfA

20 PA 1 fA

200 pA 10 fA

2nA 1oofA

20 nA 1 PA

2oanA 10 pA

2fi loopA

2:: 1 10 nA nA

2mA

20mA

INPUT VOLTAGE BURDEN: <lmV except 3mV on 2OmA mnge.

VOLTS

AMPS

1 year, 18-28X

f(%rdg + counts)

Accurecy

1.6 % + 66

1.6 % + 7

1.6 % + 1

0.25% + 5

0.25% + 1

0.15% + 4

0.15% 0.15% + + 1 1

0.15% + 4

0.15% t 1

OHMS

Accuracy

Range

aokn 10 n

200Mn 10 kn

2ooGn IOMQ

MAXIMUM OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE: 300VDC.

Resolution

2kn 0.1 n

20 kn 1 n

2;:

2Gn loo kn

2cGn IMn

loo n 0.25% t 1

IkQ

1 year, 18-W??. Current

f (%rdg t counts)

0.2 % t 4 1fJW

0.15% + 1 l@W

0.25% + 1 IOd

0.25% + 1 IOOIIA

0.3 % t 1 IonA

1.5 % t 1 1flA

1.5 % + 1 IllA

1.5 % + 1 lti

Test

fl.576

Ifi

VOLTAGE SOURCE

OUTFWT: - 102V to t 102V in 50mV steps. ACCURACY: 1 year, 18+.WC; f(0.2% t 5&W)

MAXIMUM OUTPUTCURRENT: &2mA, active current limit at <4mA

with annunciation.

GENERAL

CONVERSION TIME: 33omsec. MAXIMUM INPUT: 25W peak, DC to 80Hz sinewave, 10s per

minute max on m4 range. ELECTROMETER MAX COMMON-MODE VOLTAGE: 5OOV peak. V-SOURCE MAX COMMON-MODE VOLTAGE: IOOV psak. ENVIRONMENT:

Operating: O°C to 50°C. 70% relative humidity up to 35OC.

storage: -2FPc to t65oc. WARMUP: 1 hour to rated accuracy.

ENGINEERING UNITS CONVERSION

PREFIX 1

femto-

pico-

nano-

micro-

milli-

kilo-

mega-

gigateraoeta-

EXPONENT

IO- ‘6 lo- ‘2 10-s 10-e 10-3 103 106 109 10’2 10’5

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Before operation, ground the instrument through a properly earth grounded power receptacle.

2. Before servicing, disconnect the instrument from the power line, all other equipment and consult the Model 617 instruction Manual.

3. Do not touch any terminals while the instrument is turned on or connected to any other test equipment.

DISPLAY ANNUNCIATORS

Readings can be displayed with either alpha exponents or numeric axponents. A front panel program toggles the exponent mode (see PROGRAM FEATURES).

ALPHA EXPONENTS mV or V: millivolts or volts.

kfl, MQ, Gg, M or PG: kilohms, megohms, gigohms, teraohms or petaohms.

pA, nA, fl or mA: picoamps, nanoamps, microamps or milliamps.

nC or PC: nanocoulombs or picocoulombs.

NUMERIC EXPONENTS Positive Exponents: 0 through 18.

Negative Exponente: -01 through - 12. Example: A displayed exponent of - 12 = lo- 12.

Display Status-Three indicator lights define what is being read on the display.

METER Indicator Light-Indicates that electrometer readings are being displayed.

SOURCE Indicator Light-Indicates that the voltage source W-SOURCE) value is being displayed.

DATA Indicator Light-Indicates that the data store is in the recall mode end a previously stored reading is being displayed. A flashing DATA light indicates that the data store is full.

NOTE: The DISPLAY button toggles the display between source and the current mode (METER or DATA).

IEEE Status Indicators-The TALK, LISTEN and REMOTE indicators

are used when programming the instrument over the IEEE-488 bus.

These status lights are not operational during front panel instrument

operation.

DISPLAY MESSAGES

The following massages will be displayed to flag errors or conditions as they occur:

MESSAGE

OL r.r.

n Err

b Err

t EN

. .

IEEE “address” Program message; in IEEE ad-

dlSP Program message; in display

CAL

31inking AMPS light 3linking ZERO CHECK light In V/I zero check.

DESCRIPTION Overrange input applied. Displayed briefly on power up;

RAM test passed. Displayed constantly; RAM test failed.

Number Error. Calibration or voltage source value exceeds limits.

Bus Error. Instrument programmed while not in remote or

an illegal command (IDDC) sent or an illegal command option UDDCO) sent.

Trigger Overrun Error. Instrument triggered while processing reading from previous trigger.

flashing decimal points on exponent LEDs; not using stored cal constants. Constant decimal points; instrument in calibration male

dress program.

mode program. Program massage; in cal constant

program. In V/I current overload.

SHIK FEATURE

DESCRIPTION

Several of the front panel buttons have a secondary function. These functions are labeled on the front panel in the same color as the shit? button. A secondary function is selected by first pressing the SHIFT button and then pressing the appropriate button. More information on these secondary functions can be found in the following text.

ZERO CHECK

and ZERO CORRECT

ZERO CHECK

ZERO CORRECT

DESCRIPTION

The zero check feature provides a means for internal zero verification. The zero correct feature, when used with zero check, corrects internal offsets in the instrument 50 that the display raads zero. In the zero check mode, the input impedance of the Model 617 is changed as outlined in the following table.

INPUT IMPEDANCE WITH ZERO CHECK ENABLED

IFUNCTION I RANGE 1 IMPEDANCE IN ZERO CHECK

Volts Reistance

Coulombs Current

All All kg, 2MG

20MQ, 2OOMS, 9.09MG II 47pF All GG

All 1OMQ I 102OpF All pA 1OMg II 25pF

All nA 9.09Mn II 47pF AlI fi

All mA

IOMg II 2CpF SOSkG U 112OpF

99kn II 102OpF lOOn II 2OpF

OPERATION

Zero Verification and Correction

1. Allow the instrument to warm up for one hour after power up.

2. Turn zero check on by pressing the ZERO CHECK button. The ZERO CHECK indicator light will turn on.

3. Select the function and range that will be used. If unsure of range, select the lowest range.

4. If the display does not read zero, press the ZERO CORRECT button. The ZERO CORRECT indicator light will turn on and the display will read zero.

5. Take the instrument out of zero check by again pressing the ZERO CHECK button. The ZERO CHECK indicator light will turn off.

8. The instrument is now zeroed and ready to make measurements.

NOTES

1. The instrument can be rezeroad at any time by turning zero correct off (ZERO CORRECT indicator light off) and repeating steps 1 thmugh 5.

2. Correction is automatically scaled when range is changed. However, it is recommended that zero be checked after range or function is changed. If range or function is to be changed without rezeroing, initially zero correct on the lowest range of the function to be used.

3. Check zero every 24 hours, or whenever there is a > 1 OC temperature change.

4. On power up, zero check is on.

TYPICAL USE

Zero the 2pA range to ensure accurate measurements on that range.

MEASUREMENT MODES

VOLTS

OHMS

1 AMPS

DESCRIPTION

These buttons place the Model 617 in the desired electrometer measurement mode. The VOLTS and OHMS buttons have sacondan/functions: external feedback and VII modes respectively. In the external feedback mode, the internal feedback elements are electrically removed from the circuit so that an external element can be used instead. The VII mode utilizes the V-Source to extend the resistance measurement capabilities of the Model 617 to lOtaD. In this mode the Model 617 automatically calculates the resistance from the programmed voltage value and measured current, and then displays it.

OPERATION

Volts, Ohms and Amps:

1. Turn zero check on.

2 Determine the signal to be measured.

V/I

clcl

3. Press the appropriate function button.

4. Select an appropriate range or autorange.

5. Zero correct the instrument if it is not reading zero.

6. Apply the signal to the triax input connector on the mar panel.

7. Turn zero check off.

Coulombs:

1. Turn zero check on.

2. Press the COUL button.

3. Select an appropriate range or autorange.

4. Zero correct the instrument if it is not reading zero.

5. Turn zero check off.

6. Turn suppress on to cancel the small amount of charge error introduced by turning zero check off.

7. Apply the signal to the triax input connector on the rear panel.

‘GRN

“SUPPLIED INPUT CABLE

Fig 1. Voltage Resistance, Current and Charge

Measurements

VII:

1. Turn zero check on.

MODEL 617

2. Select the current function and an appropriate range fautorenge suggested).

3. Zero correct the instrument lf it is not reading zero.

4. Set the voltage source (V-Source) to an appropriate level. (See page 20 for V-Source operation).

5. Connect the resistance to be measured to the Model 617 as shown.

6. Press the V-Source OPERATE button (OPERATE light on).

7. Turn zero check off.

8. Note the current reading on the display. If this current is to be sup pressed. press the SUPPRESS button (SUPPRESS light on).

9. Select the V/I function by pressing the SHIFT button and then the OHMS button. The V/I indicator light will turn on.

10. If the displayed resistance measurement is to be suppressed, press the SUPPRESS button. Otherwise, take the resistance measurements, in ohms, from the display.

*NOT USED

“SUPPLIED INPUT CABLE

SOURCE VOLTAGE

RX = MEASURED CURRENT

Pig 2. V/I Measurements

NOTES

1. To exit the VII mode, press any function button.

2. Suppress can be used with V/I ohms in two different ways. If sup-

press is enabled with the instrument in the V/i ohms mode, the displayed resistance value (not the current being measured) will be

suppressed. In this case, the instrument can be toggled between

amps and V/I ohms without cancelling the suppressed resistance value. However, suppress will be temporarily ignored by switching to amps, but it will be reinstated by returning to V/I ohms.

The current can be suppressed by placing the Model 617 in the amps

mode and then enabling suppress. Entering the V/I ohms mode after suppress is enabled will not cancel the suppressed currant, and the displayed resistance value will reflect the suppressed current (not a suppressed resistance). Again, the instrument can be toggled between VII ohms and amps without cancelling suppress, but the suppressed value will be a current for both amps and VII ohms under

these conditions.

RANGE

AUTO

III

DESCRIPTION

The range buttons select the desired range of measurement for the Model 617. The range may be selected manually or automatically. With manual range selection always use the range that allows the greatest amount of resolution.

OPERATION

AUTO The AUTO button toggles autoranging and manual ranging. The instrument is in autoranging when the AUTO indicator light is on. If the light is off, press the AUTO button once to get into the autorange mode.

MANUAL

The instrument is in manual range when the AUTO indicator light is off. If the light is on, press the AUTO button once to get into the manual ranging mode. To uprange, press the button showing the arrowhead pointing up. To downrange press the button showing the arrowhead pointing down.

SUPPRESS

DESCRIPTION

The suppress feature serves as a means of baseline suppression allowing a stored offset value to be subtracted from subsequent readings. When

the SUPPRESS button is pressed, the instrument triggers a conversion

and stores the reading as a baseline value. All subsequent readings

represent the differences between the applied signal level and the stored baseline. The stored baseline can be as small as the resolution of the in-

strument will allow or as large as full range.

A suppress level can be established for any measurement function and is

effective only on that function. Changing functions, except between

amps and VII (see V/I operation), will cancel the suppress level already established. Once a suppress level is established for a measurement

function, that stored level will be scaled according to what range the

Model 617 is on.

It is important to note that the suppress mode reduces the dynamic range of measurement by that stored level. For example, assume that the suppress level is + lfi end the w range is selected. The maximum positive displayed reading, before overranging, would be +0.9999fi.

This is because the A/D converter would be seeing 1.9999fi (maxi-

mum) from the input. The dynamic range of measurement is

-1.9999fl to +0.9999@ (2.9998fi) as compared to the normal

-1.9999fi to + 1.9999fi (3.9998rN span. The dynamic range of measurement has been reduced by lfi (10,060 counts). The effects of dynamic range can reduced by selecting a higher range or using

autorange.

OPERATION

1. Select function and range.

2. Input the offset or baseline level to the Model 617.

3. Press the SUPPRESS button. The SUPPRESS indicator light will turn on and the display will zero.

4. The stored level will be algebraically subtracted from all subsequent measurements.

NOTE: Suppress can be turned off by again pressing the SUPPRESS

button.

TYPICAL USE

1. Cancel external source offset (i.e. calibrator offset).

2. Null out lead resistance on ohms.

3. Null out circuit outputs to display only drift or changes.

TRIG (TRIGGER)

DESCRIPTION

As a bench instrument, the Model 617 has two trigger modes; con-

tinuous and single. In the continuous mode, the instrument constantly triggers three readings per second. In the single mode, one reading is

triggered every time the TRIG button is pressed or an external trigger is

received. When the SGL light is off, the Model 617 is in the continuous

trigger mode. When the light is on, the instrument is in the single trigger

mode.

OPERATION

Changing From Continuous To Single Trigger:

1. Press the SHIFT button and then the TRIG button. The SGL indicator light will turn on.

2. To trigger a reading, press the TRIG button once. The display will blank momentarily to indicate that one reading was triggered.

Changing Fmm Single To Continuous Trigger:

1. Press the SHIFT button and then the TRIG button. The SGL indicator light will turn off.

2. Readings are now triggering continuously.

TYPICAL USE

The front panel TRIG button can be used to prompt another instrument to perform e specific function, such as outputting a current or voltage level, or changing channels on a scanner. To use in this configuration, the METER COMPLETE OUTPUT of the Model 617 must be connected to the external trigger input of the other instrument.

V-SOURCE

DISPLAY

ADJUST

OPERATE

7mA MAX

DESCRIPTION

This feature delivers - 102.35V to + 102.4OV at a maximum of f2mA to the V-SOURCE OUTPUT binding posts on the mar panel of the Model 617.

OPERATION

Hazardous voltages may be present at the output.

Make sure that the OPERATE indicator light is off before connecting the V-SOURCE OUTPUT to a load.

WARNING

V-SOURCE OUTPUT

1 PEAK

1. Connect a suitable load to the V-SOURCE OUTPUT connectors.

2. Press the DISPLAY button and verify that the SOURCE indicator light is on. This button toggles the meter and source display modes.

If the DATA indicator light is on (not blinking), the DISPLAY button will toggle the display between source

and data display modes.

3. Using the two ADJUST buttons, set the displayed value to read the

desired voltage level. The reading adjust rate will increase if an ADJUST button is held in. For an even faster adjust rate, press the

SHIFT button and then hold in an ADJUST button.

4. Press the OPERATE button to output the displayed voltage to the

load. The OPERATE indicator light will turn on.

5. To turn off the V-Source function, press the OPERATE button again.

The OPERATE light will turn off and the output will be held at OV

25OmV.

NOTES

1. Current limit will occur at lass than 4mA and will cause the OPERATE indicator light to flash.

2. On power up, V-Source will be set to OO.OW.

103V MAX

NOTE

TYPICAL USE

1. The V-Source is used with the VII function to extend the resistance measurement capabilities of the Model 617 to lOl%.

2. The V-Source can also be used to deliver test voltages to external circuits.

DATA STORE with MIWMAX

DATA STORE

RECALL EXIT

DESCRIPTION

The data store feature saves up to 100 points of data and holds the lowest (Anin) and highest (Max) readings while data store is on. The 100 points of data are stored at the rate of one of six selectable rates from every reading (3 per second) to one reading per hour. Also, manual data entry is available (RBI.. In the continuous trigger mode (SGL light off), the minimumlmaximum readings are continuously updated at the rate of three readings per second (regardless of the selected rate) while data store is on.

100 POINT DATA STORAGE

1. Press and hold in the Data Store ON/OFF button. The following storage rates will scroll on the display: r=O (every reading) r= 1 (1 reading per second) r=2 (1 reading per 10 seconds) r=3 (1 reading per minute) r=4 (1 reading per 10 minutes) r=5 (1 reading per hour) r =6 (every time TRIG button is pressed)

2. When the desired storage rate is displayed, release the Data Store ON/OFF button.

NOTE: If you are not ready to store data, turn the data store off. When ready, press and release the Data Store ON/OFF button. The preselected storage rate will be displayed briefly, the indicator light will turn on and the store cycle will start.

3. Recalling Data-Data can be recalled at any time, but the flashing DATA indicator light signals that the buffer is full (100 points stored).

A. Press and hold in the RECALL button. The DATA indicator light

will turn on and the display will scroll through the data and minimum/maximum points. The first data point displayed is the last data point that was stored. The next two points are the maximum (HI) and minimum (LO) readings made during that store cycle.

B. Release the RECALL button at the desired data point and note the

reading on the display. The data pointer can be incremented by steps of one by momentarily holding in the RECALL button.

C. Exit from the recall mode by pressing the SHIFT button and then

the RECALL MIT button. The DATA indicator light will turn off.

4. Turn off the data store cycle by pressing the ON/OFF button. The indicator light will turn off. All stored data is retained until a new store cycle is started, power to the instrument is turned off, or a DCL or SDC is received over the IEEE bus.

TYPICAL USE

1. Saving data points of current drift of a low leakage device such as a

FET.

2. Monitoring and saving levels that fluctuate over a period of time.

MIN/MAX

1. Press and release the Data Store ON/OFF button. The indicator light will turn on. In the continuous trigger mode, minimum and maximum readings will continue to update at the rate of three readings per se cond for as long as the data store is on and storing readings.

2. To recall the minimum/maximum readings: A. Press and hold in the RECALL button. The DATA indicator light

will turn on.

B. Release the RECALL button when HI is displayed and note the

maximum reading.

C. Again press the RECALL button and release it when LO is

displayed. Note the minimum reading.

D. Exit from the recall mode by pressing the SHIFT button and then

the RECALL EXIT button. The DATA indicator light will turn off.

3. Turn off the data store cycle by pressing the ON/OFF button. The indicator light will turn off. The minimum/maximum readings, along with the other data, will be retained until a new store cycle is started.

There must be at least one reading in data store in order to recall the minimum/maximum values.

NOTE

TYPICAL USE

Detect surges, dips and peak drifts over a period of time.

PROGRAM FEATURES

The Model 617 has front panel programs to:

1. Display and change the IEEE-488 address of the instrument or select the talk only mode.

2. Toggle the display for either alpha exponents or numeric exponents.

The program mode is selected by pressing the SELECT button. Program

parameters are changed with the use of the V-Source ADJUST buttons (V-Source is disabled during program select). The adjust buttons increment and decrement the displayed value.

Program Storage and Exit Exit the program mode and store the parameters by pressing the SHIFT

and SELECT EXIT buttons. The instrument will return to the previous

mode.

IEEE ADDRESS AND TALK ONLY

To display and change the IEEE address:

1. Press and release the SELECT button until IEEE and the present ad-

dress number are displayed.

2. To change the address, adjust the display to read the desired primary address (O-30) using the ADJUST buttons.

3. Press the SELECT button to store the new address and exit the program mode.

To select the talk only mode:

1. Press and release the SELECT button until IEEE is displayed.

2. Using the adjust buttons, adjust the display to read 40 for talk only mode with prefuc or to 41 for talk only mode without prefuc.

3. Press the SELECT button to store the talk only mode and exit the program mode.

For more information on talk only operation, see page 40 of this booklet.

NOTE

DISPLAY EXPONENTS

Do the following to toggle the display for alpha exponents (i.e. fi, kn) or numeric exponents (i.e. -06, 03).

1. Press and release the SELECT button until dlSP is displayed.

2. Press and release either of the ADJUST buttons. The exponent mode will toggle.

3. Press the SELECT button to store the displayed exponent mode and axit the program mode.

2V ANALOG OUTPUT

DESCRIPTION

A voltage level that is proportional to the incoming input level can be

monitored using the 2V ANALOG OUTPUT and COM binding posts on the rear panel. All ranges wil[ output 2v at full range. The output is in-

verted when in volts and ohms.

TYPICAL USE

Connect a chart recorder to the analog output to monitor drii of the input signal czar an extended period of time.

PREAMP OUT

DESCRIPTION

The PREAMP OUT connector can be used to either configure the Model 617 for external feedback or to monitor the output voltage of the electrometer preamp up to k2OOV (proportional to the input level).

The table below lists the full range output voltages available at the PREAMP OUT and COM terminals. The output is inverted when in amps or coulombs.

Hazardous voltage levels may be present on the PREAMP OUT terminal.

FULL RANGE PREAMP OUT LEVELS

FUNCTION

Amps

Ohms

Coulombs

RANGE

2JOmV 2v 20V 2oov

*A. m. &A r&-d+ ZOpA, 2OnA, ZO/rA, 20mA

2OOpA, 200nA, 2OOfi 2kfl

2OkQ - 2Gg 20Gg 2OilGll

2oopc

2nC

2OnC

WARNING

PREAMP OUT

(Absolute Value1

2oOmv

20V

200 v 2oOmv

20V

200mV

20V

200 v 200mV

20 v

OPERATION

External Feedback

1. Turn zero check on.

2. Press the SHIFT button and than the VOLTS button. The VOLTS and AMPS indicator lights will turn on.

3. Connect the external feedback element from the PREAMP OUT binding post to input HI as shown.

4. Apply the signal to the triax input connector.

5. Turn zero check off.

“SUPPLIED INPUT CABLE

MODEL 617

Fig 3. External Feedback

NOTES

1. The negative of the voltage drop across the feedback element will be

displayed.

2. To exit the external feedback mode, turn zero check on, remove the feedback element and prass any FUNCTION button.

TYPICAL USE

External feedback can be used if non-decade or logarithmic current gain is required, or added coulombs capability is necessary.

V, hl GUARD

V, R GUARD

DESCRIPTION

Using the Model 617 in the guarded configuration IV, ‘2 GUARD switch

on) reduces response time and the effects of cable leakage when making volts and ohms measurements. The guard should be used when making resistance measurements above lOOMl2 or voltage measurements that have high source resistances. See Fig 4 for guarded measurement corrections.

00 w uo

*IF COM TO CHASSIS LINK IS IN, THE GRN LEAD CAN BE USED FOR

LOW. OTHERWISE. THE GRN LEAD IS UNUSED.

*‘SUPPLIED INPUT CABLE

Fig 4. Guard Measurements

MODEL 617

INPUT

Hazardous voltage may be present on the inner

shield of triax input connector (black test lead)

when V. fl GUARD is on.

WARNING

1. Turn zero check on.

2 Place the V, Q GUARD switch (on rear panel) to the on position.

3. Select the volts or ohms function.

4. Select appropriate range or autorange.

5. Connect input as shown in the illustration.

6. Release zero check and take the reading.

TYPICAL USE

Measure Insulation Resistance-The guard configuration is recom-

mended to allaw quick and accurate measurements regardless of cable

capacitance or cable leakage.

EXTERNAL TRIGGER INPUT

DESCRIPTION

When the Model 617 is in the single trigger mode, external trigger pulses can be used to initiate measurement conversions. Each pulse will trigger one reading. The external trigger requires a falling edge, debounced pulse at TTL logic level (see Figure 5). A debounced switch can be connected to the EXTERNAL TRIGGER input and used to trigger readings. Every time the switch is closed, one reading will be triggered.

OPERATION

1. Set the Model 617 to the single trigger mode (sea TRIG).

2. Input an appropriate debounced trigger pulse source to the MTERNAL TRIGGER INPUT.

NOTE:

Trigger pulses that are not debounced will cause trigger errors ft Err).

TYPICAL USE

Have a programmable source trigger the Model 617 to take a reading when the source outputs a new level.

TRIGGER ON

NEGATIVE

GOING

lTL HIGH

+2v to c5v

PULSE

TTL LOW

-z-u

ov to +imv

Fig 5. Trigger Pulse Specifications

The METER COMPLETE OUTPUT is a 4O@seo wide positive going pulse that signifies completion of the measurement cycle. The mater complete line can be used to trigger another instrument or to inform an instrument that the measurement has bean completed.

OPERATION

Using an appropriate cable, connect the METER COMPLETE OUTPUT of the Model 617 (locatacl on rear panel) to the atierna! trigger input of another instrument.

TYPICAL USES

1. Trigger a .scanner to switch to the next available channel when the Model 617 measurement cycle has been completed.

2. Tn’gger a programmable source to output the nex3 programmed level when the Model 617 measurement cycle has been completed.

IEEE-488 PROGRAMMING

Function:

RO = Auto on Rl = 200mV

R3 = 20 V R4 = 200 V R5 = 206 V R6 = 200 v R7 = 200 V

R9 = 200 V RIO= 260 V Rll= 200 V R12= Auto off

Zero Correct:

Suppress:

Display:

Read Mode:

Fa = Volts Fl = Amps F2 = Ohms F3 = Coulombs F4 = External Feedback F5 = V/I

Amps

Auto on

200 pA

2OOnA

200 p4

Auto off

Ohms

2 kn

20 kn

200 kfl

2Mn

20MQ

200Mn

2Gt-l

20GR 2oOGfl 2offin 2oom

Auto on

2oOpc

2llC 20nC 20nC 20nC 2Onc 20nC 2Onc 2Onc 2Onc 2Onc

Auto off

Auto on

2pA

20 pA

2nA

20 nA

2:$

2mA

2omA

Auto off

=Ol-f

Cl = On 20 = off

21 = On

NO = Off

Nl = On

DO = Electrometer Dl = Voltage Source

BO = Electrometer El = Data Store* 82 = Highest (Max) Buffered Reading 83 = Lowest (Min) Buffered Reading 84 = Voltage Source *See page 42 for program example.

X Fdbk

Auto on

200mV

2v 20 v 20 v 20 v 20 v 20 v 20 v 20V 20 v 20 v

V/I

Auto or

2oom

2OTB

2Gn

200Mn

20Mn

2Mn

Auto of

Data Store

‘-source Value: Vfn.nnnnnE?cnn

‘-Source Operats: CXJ = Dff

lalrbration VaIue: A~n.nnnonErtnn

‘tore: Rigger:

tatus:

‘ata Format: GO = Send prefix with data.

R(1:

Control:

Reading

Every

Ql = 7 reading per second.

M = 1 reading per 10 seconds. Q3 = 1 reading per minute. Q4 = 1 reading per 10 minutes.

Cl5 = 1 reading per hour.

06 = Every time Tl?lG button is pressed.

Q7=Off

n = Voltage Source Value

01 = On

A = Calibration Value

Ll = Store Calibration Constants TO = Continuous, Talk

Tl = Single, Talk T2 = Continuous, GET T3 = Single, GET

T4 = Continuous, “X”

T!! = Single, “x” T6 = Continuous, External l7 = Single, External “Trigger always starts a new reading,

regardless of mode (singlelcontinuousl.

UO = Send machine status word. Ul = Send error status word. U2 = Send data status word.

Gl = Do not send prefix with date. G2 = Send prefix and buffer address with

data (if in 81).

MO = Clear SRQ Mask Ml = Reading Overflow M2 = Buffer Full M8 = Reed’& Done Ml6 = Ready M32 = Error Example: Ml0 programs the 617 to SRQ when a reading is done or the buffer is full.

EOI: KO = Send EOI and hold off on “X”.

TRIGGER TO FIRST BYTE OUT: 350ms.

Kl = Do not send EOI and hold off on

“X K2 = Send EOI and no hold off on 9”. K3 = Do not send EOI and no hold off on

‘X”.

Ym = One terminator character. Ymn = Two terminator characters

X = Execute Device-Dependent Commands “Use “X” to force a sequence. Example: To

POWER UP DEFAULT CONDITIONS

MODE Function

Range Zero Check zero cormct supprass Trigger V-Source Operate

Read Mode

Data Format

Display

Data Store Control SRQ EOI Teninator V-Source Value St&US Cal Value

STATUS (see machine status word) Fo = Volts

RO = Autorange Cl = On

M=Off

NO = Off

T6 = Continuous, External

OO=Off BO = Electrometer GO = Send prefix with data W = Electrometer

Q7 = off

MO = Clear SRQ mask

KO = Send EOI and hold off on “X” YO = CR LF vo = 0 Volts U not active A not active

DATA FORMAT

DCV = VOLTS

OHM = OHMS

DCC = COUL

DCX = EXTERNAL

FEEDBACK

l VSCR WHEN READING V-SOURCE 184)

STATUS BYTE

5% DIGITS

DECIMAL

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1

1 = ERROR -1

1 = READY

-I ’

1 = READING DONE

I= BUFFER FULL

STATUS WORDS

Machine Status PJO)

IDefault Conditions Shown)

Error Status (Ul)

617 IDDC IDDCO REMOTE - OVERRUN NUMBER -

0 = FALSE l=TRUE EXAMPLE: 617010000000 = IDDCO ERROR

Data Status (lJ2)

TEMP V-SOURCE

0 Oorl Oorl Oorl 0 or 1 0 0 0

0 = FALSE

1 = TRUE EXAMPLE: 6171ooOOOOOO = BUFFER FULL

N CAL OVERLOAD - - -

IEEE ADDRESS SELECTION

A front panel program is used to display end change the IEEE-488 primary address of the Model 617. See page 26 for instructions.

TALK ONLY OPERATION

DESCRIPTION

Talk only may be used to send data to a listen only device such as a printer. Data may be sent with the prefix (i.e. NDCA) or without the prefix. When the Model 617 is in the talk only mode, it ignores com-

mands g’nren over the bus. The talk only mode is enabled through a front panel program. The default talk rate is three readings per second (every reading). However, a different talk rats can be selected.

OPERATION

1. Select Program. Press and release the SELECT button until IEEE is displayed.

2. Select Talk Only Mode. Adjust the display, using the ADJUST buttons to mad 40 for talk only mode with prafix or to 41 for talk only mode without prefix.

3. Store Program. Press the SHIFT button end then the SELECT EXIT button.

4. To select a different talk rate: A. Press and hold in the Data Store ON/OFF button. The following

talk ratas scroll on the display: r = 0 (every reading) r = 1 (1 reading per second) r = 2 (1 reading par 10 seconds) r = 3 I1 reading per minute1 r = 4 (1 reading per 10 minutes) r = 5 (1 reading per hour) r = 6 (1 reading every time TRIG button is pressed)

B. Release the ON/OFF button when the desired talk rate is

displayed.

NOTE: The instrument remains in the selected talk rate until a new rate

is salacted, the data store cycle is turned nff (DATA STORE in-

dicator light off) or power is cycled.

PROGRAMS

The following programs are designed to be a simple aid to the user. They are not intended to suit specific needs. Detailed programming information can be found in the manual.

The first program demonstrates how to read the contents of the buffer

(data store) using the HP-85 computer. All 100 readings stored in the

buffer will be displayed.

The rest of the programs display one reading at the output of the controller. Each program provides an ASCII string variable output of the form:

The note at the end of each program indicates modiications to provide a numeric variable (A) in exponential form:

NDCA + 0.00000 + 0 CR LF

+ 0.00000

DATA STORE OPERATION

USWIG HP-85

The following program will enable data store (buffer) operation and obtain and display 100 readings on the computer CRT.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program feeture, set the primary address on the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 to the HP82937A IEEE interface.

3. Enter the Following program using the END LINE ksyaffar each line is typed.

4. Press the HP-95 RUN key. The program wiU enable the buffer, wait for the buffer to fill, turn on the buffer output, and then request and

display all 100 readings.

PROGRAM

COMMENTS

10 DIM AsI 20 REMOTE 727 30 OUTPUT 727”QOX” 40 S=SPOLL rin, 60 IF NOT BlT(S,l) THEN 40 60 OUTPUT 727”BltXX” 70 FOR I =l TO’100 BO ENTER 727;M 90 DISP AS

100 NEXT I

..- -..-

110 END

Send remote enable. Enable buffer at conversion rate. Serial Poll the 617. If buffer not full, wait. Set read mode to buffer. Loop 100 times. Get a buffer reading. Display it. Loop back and get next reading

IBM XT or PC (Keithley 8573 GPIB Interface)

The following program sends a command string to the Modal 617 from an IBM PC or XT computer and displays the instrument reading on the CRT. The computer must be equipped with a Keithley Instruments Modal 8573 GPIB IEEE interface and the DOS 2.0 operating system. The GPIB software and hardware must be configured per the Keithley Instruments Modal 8573 Instruction Manual.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program feature, set the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2 With the power off, connect the Model 617 to the IEEE-488 interface

installed in the IBM computer.

3. Type in the command BASICA on the IBM keyboard to get into the IBM interpretive BASICA language.

4. Place the interface software disc in the default drive, type LOAD “DECL”, and press the return key.

5. Enter the following program into the computer, pressing the return key after each line is type. Lines l-6 are part of the DECL program previously loaded and naed not be typed in. However, lines 1 and 2

will have to be altered. See the Model 8573 Instruction Manual.

6. Run the program and type in the desired command string when pmmpted. For example: to place the Model 617 into the one shot on talk trigger mode and in the 2@ range, type in FlR7TlX and press the return key.

7. The display will show the Model 617 reading string on the CRT. For example, when the Model 617 is in zero check, the display will read NDCA + O.OOOOOE-06.

8. To exit the program type EXIT and press return.

PROGRAM

10 CLS

20 NA$=“GPlBC?CALL IBFIND

(NA$,BRDO%)

30 NA$ =“DEVO”CALL IBFIND

tNA$,M617%)

35 V% =&H102:CALL IBPOKE

fBRDO%,V%l

40 V% =27CALL IBPAD

fM617%,V%)

50 V% =l:CAlL IBSRE

fBRDO%,V%f

60 INPUT”COMMAND”;CMDS

70 If CMD$=“EXiT” THEN 150

80 If CMD$=” ” THEN 60

90 CALL IBWRT(M617%,CMDS)

100 RDS = SPACES(501 110 CALL IBRD(M617%,RD$I

120 RDS = LEFT$tRDS,IBCNT%l 130 PRINT RDS 140 GOT0 60 150 V% =&CALL IBONL

(BRDO%,V%) 160 CALL IBONL(M617%,V%) 170 END

NOTE: Lines l-6 of this program are not shown and need not be typed

in. They are contained in the floppy disc. When the command

LOAD”DECL” is entered these lines are already there.

NOTE: If conversion to numeric variable isdesired, change lines 120 and

130 as follows:

120 RD=VAL(MIDS(RDS,5.16)) 130 PRINT RD

COMMENTS

Find the board number.

Find the 617 number.

Set timeout delays.

Change to primary address 27.

Set REN true.

Prompt for ccmmand string. Sea if pmgram is to be halted. If null command string, go back and get another. Address 617 to listen and send command string. Assign reading input buffer. Address 617 to Talk and input reading string. Trim string to proper size. Display the reading on the CRT. Repeat. Close the board file.

Close the instrument file.

APPLE II (APPLE Interface)

The following program obtains one reading from the Model 617 Elactrometar and displays the reading on the APPLE II screan, using an APPLE IEEE-488 interface.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program feature, set the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 to the APPLE II and APPLE IEEE-488 interface.

3. Enter the following program using the RETURN key after each line.

4. Type in RUN and depress the RETURN key.

5. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

6. To program the Model 617 to the &A range and take a reading, type in FlR7TlX and depress the RETURN key.

7. The display will read NDCA + O.WOOOE-06 when the Model 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM

COMMENTS

20 20 = CHRW6) 30 INPUT’ITEST SETlJP?“;B$

40 PRW 50 INW 60 PRINT “RA” 70 PRINT ‘W”.ZGB$ 80 PRINT “LFl” 90 PRINT “RD”; CHRSL91);ZS;:

INPUT ” “;A$ 100 PRINT “UT” 110 PRKl 120 IN#O 130 PRINT A$ 140 GO TD 30

NOTE: If conversion to numeric variable is needed, add the following:

134 A=VAL(MID$lA$,5,16)) 136 PRINT A

I, ,

Terminator.

Enter programming command.

Example: 2& range=FlRTTlX Send output to IEEE bus. Get input from IEEE bus. Turn remote on. Write 88 to 617.

tinefeed on.

Read data from 617.

Send output to CRT.

Get input from keyboard.

Repeat.

HP 85

The following program obtains one reading from the Model 617 Etectrometer and displays the reading on the HP-65 CRT screen, using the

62937A GPIB interface and an l/O ROM.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program feature, set the primary address on the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 to the HP82937A IEEE interface.

3. Enter the following program using the END LINE key efter each line is

4. Depress the RUN key.

5. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

6. To program the Model 617 to the &A range and take a reading, type in FlR7TlX and depress the END LINE key.

7. The display will read NDCA + O.OOOOOE - 06 when the Model 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM

10 DIM A9f251, Bsf251 20 REMOTE727 30 DISP ‘TEST SETUP” 40 INPUT’BS

50 OUTPUT 727;B$ 64 ENTER 727;A$

70 DISPAS 80 GO TO 30 90 END

NOTE: If conversion to numeric variable is needed, change line 70 as

follows:

70 DISP VALfASI511

COMMENTS

Set to remote. Prompt for test setup.

Program the 617 Get data from 617.

Repeat

HP 9825A

The following program obtains one reading from the Model 617 Elac-

trometer and displays the reading on the HP 9826A using a 98034A HPIB interface and a 9872A extended I/O ROM.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program feature, set the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 to the HP 9825A and the 98034A HPIB interface.

3. Enter the following program using the STORE key after each line is typed. Line numbers are automatically assigned by the 9826A.

4. Depress the RUN key.

5. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

6. To program the Model 617 to the &A range and take a reading typ% in FlR7TlX and depress the CONT key.

7. The print-out will read NDCA + O.OOOOOE-06 when the Model 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM COMMENTS

0 dim A$f2Ol,B$f201 1 dev”617”,727 2 rem”617” 3 ent’TEST SETUP”,B$

4 wrr?617”,B$

5 rad”617” A$ 6prtA8 ’ 7 gto3

NOTE: If conversion to numeric variable is desired, omit line 6 and 7 and

substitute:

6 “e”- A$f13,131;flt6 7 prt val(ASI51) 8 gto3 Repeat.

Dimension data strings. Define Model 617 address 27.

Set to remote.

Enter programming command.

(Example: w range = FlR7TlX) Output program command to Model 617 via IEEE bus. Read data from Model 617 via IEEE bus.

Print data on hard copy printer.

Repeat

Convert to numeric variable.

HP 9816

The following program sends a command string to the Model 617 Electrometer, reads data and displays the data on the HP 9816 CRT, using

BASICA 2.0.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel pmgram feature, set the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2. With the power off, connect the Model 617 to the HP 9816 and HP 82937A GPIB interface,

3. Type EDlT and press the EXEC key.

4. Enter the following program using the ENTER key after each line is typed.

5. Press the HP 9816 RUN key.

6. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

7. To program the Model 617 to the w range and to take a reading, type in FlR7TlX and press the ENTER key.

8. The display will read NDCA + O.OOOOOE-06 when the Model 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM

10 REMOTE 727 20 INPUT’ITEST SETuP”,A$ 30 OUPTUT 727;AS

40 ENTER 727;B$

50 PRINT BS

64 GOT020 Repeat.

70 END

NOTE: If conversion to numeric variable is desired, change lines 40 and

50 as follows:

40 ENTER 727;B

50 PRINT B

COMMENTS

Set to remote.

Prompt for test setup. Send command string to 617.

Get data string from 617.

Display data string.

The following program obtains one reading from the Model 617 Etectrometer and displays the reading on the DEC LSI 11 microcomputer CRT terminal. The LSI 11 must be configured with lf% words of RAM and an IBV 11 IEEE interface. The software must be configured with IB software as well as the FORTRAN and the RT 11 operating system.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel program features, set the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 tothe IBV 11 IEEE cable.

3. Enter the following program, using the editor under RT 11 end the name IPHILD.

4. Compile using the fortran compiler as follows: FORTRAN IPHILD.

5. Link with the system and IB libraries as follows: LINK IPHILD,IBLIB.

6. Type RUN IPHIL and depress the RETURN key.

7. The display will read “ENTER ADDRESS”.

8. Type in 27 and depress the RETURN key.

9. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

10. To program the Model 617 to the &A range and take a reading, type in FIRTTIX and depress the RETURN key.

11. The display will read NDCA + 0.000OOE -06 when the Mode! 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM

INTEGER”2 PRIADR LOGICAL’1 MSGl80),INPUT@30) DO21 = 1.10 CALL IBSTER(I,Ol

2 CONTINUE

CALL IBSTER /15,5) CALL IBTIMO (120)

CALL IBTERM (“10)

CALL IBREN 4TYPE5 5 FORMAT (lX,‘ENTER ADDRESS’,81

ACCEPT IO, PRIADR 10 FORMAT (2141 12 PlPE 15 15 FORMAT (lX,‘TEST SETUP’,$)

CALL GETSTR l5,MSG.721

CALL IBSEOI (MSG. - 1,PRIADR) 18 I=lBRECV (INPUT,BO,PRIADR)

lNPUT(l + 1) = 0

CALL PUTSTR (7,lNPUT,‘O’)

CALL IBUNT

GOT0 12

END

COMMENTS

ITurn off IB errors.

IAllow 5 error 15’s. IAllow 1 second bus timeout. ISet LF as terminator. ITurn remote on.

llnput the address 27.

IPrompt for the test setup. IGet the test setup. IProgram the 617.

!Untalk the 617. IRepeat

PEWCBM 2001

The following program obtains one reading from the Model 617 Electrometer and displays the reading on the PETICBM 2001 screen.

DIRECTIONS

1. Using the front panel feature, sat the primary address of the Model 617 to 27.

2. Connect the Model 617 to the PETKBM 2001 IEEE interface.

3. Enter the following program using the RETURN key after each line.

4. Type RUN and depress the RETURN key.

5. The display will read “TEST SETUP”.

6. To program the Model 617 to the &A range and take a reading, type in FlR7l2X and depress the RETURN key.

7. The display will read NDCA + O.OOLIOOE-06 when the Model 617 is in zero check.

PROGRAM

10 OPEN 6.27 Open file 6, primary address 27

20 INPUT “TEST SETUP”;B$ Enter programming command

30 PRINT#tT,B$ 40 INPUT&AS

60 IFST = 2THEN40 60 PRINT AS 70 GO TO 20

NCTEz If conversion to numeric variable is desired, omit line 70 and type

the following:

70 A = VALLMID$(A$,5,1511 Convert to numeric variable. 60 PRINT “A=” .A 96GOTO26 ’ Repeat

COMMENTS

(Example: &A range = FlR7T2X)

Output to IEEE bus.

Read data from Model 617 via IEEE

bUS.

If time out, input again.

Print data

Repeat

Test Instrumentation Group

28775 Aurora Road / Cleveland, Ohio 44139

Tektronix 617 Reference manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual