Tektronix 6517B User manual
Model 6517B
Electrometer
User's Manual
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
tek.com/keithley
*P6517B-900-01B*
6517B-900-01B
Electrometer
Model 6517B
User's Manual
© 2022, Keithley Instruments, LLC
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
All rights reserved.
Any unauthorized reproduction, photocopy, or use of the information herein, in whole or in part,
without the prior written approval of Keithley Instruments, LLC, is strictly prohibited.
These are the original instructions in English.
All Keithley Instruments product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley
Instruments, LLC. Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
Document number: 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Safety precautions
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 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 the 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 products are designed for use with electrical signals that are measurement, control, 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
overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Certain Keithley measuring instruments may be connected to
mains. These instruments will be marked as category II or higher.
Unless explicitly allowed in the specifications, 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
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 VDC 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 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.
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 specified in the 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 defined in the
specifications and operating information and shown on the instrument panels, test fixture panels, and switching cards.
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 protective earth (safety 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.
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 shock. Use standard safety 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.
If this 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 federal, state, and local laws.
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 explains hazards that could damage the 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 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 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 with a similarly rated power cord. 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 to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product). If you are unsure about the applicability of a replacement
component, call a Keithley office for information.
Unless otherwise noted in product-specific literature, Keithley instruments are designed to 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 water 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/servicing.
Safety precaution revision as of June 2018.
Table of contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1-1
Welcome .............................................................................................................................. 1-1
Capabilities and features overview ...................................................................................... 1-1
Extended warranty ............................................................................................................... 1-2
Contact information .............................................................................................................. 1-2
General ratings ..................................................................................................................... 1-2
Unpacking and inspection for damage ................................................................................. 1-3
Returning instrument for service .......................................................................................... 1-3
Shipment contents ............................................................................................................... 1-3
Options and accessories ...................................................................................................... 1-3
Getting started .......................................................................................................... 2-1
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 2-1
Front-panel overview ............................................................................................................ 2-1
Rear-panel overview ............................................................................................................ 2-4
Power the instrument on or off ............................................................................................. 2-6
Power-up sequence .................................................................................................................. 2-7
Using the menus .................................................................................................................. 2-9
Menu .................................................................................................................................... 2-9
SAVESETUP ........................................................................................................................... 2-10
COMMUNICATION ................................................................................................................. 2-11
CAL ......................................................................................................................................... 2-11
TEST ....................................................................................................................................... 2-11
LIMITS .................................................................................................................................... 2-12
STATUS-MSG ......................................................................................................................... 2-12
GENERAL ............................................................................................................................... 2-12
Display................................................................................................................................ 2-14
Exponent mode (engineering or scientific) .............................................................................. 2-14
Messages ................................................................................................................................ 2-15
Display instrument information ................................................................................................ 2-15
Measurement function displays ............................................................................................... 2-16
Saving setups ..................................................................................................................... 2-20
Save a user setup ................................................................................................................... 2-20
Restore a user setup ............................................................................................................... 2-20
Reset the instrument .......................................................................................................... 2-21
Factory default settings ........................................................................................................... 2-21
Connections .............................................................................................................. 3-1
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 3-1
Electrometer input connector ............................................................................................... 3-1
Input configurations ................................................................................................................... 3-1
Maximum input levels ................................................................................................................ 3-2
Table of contents
User's Manual
Model 6517B Electrometer
Input protection ......................................................................................................................... 3-3
High-resistance meter connections ...................................................................................... 3-4
Voltage source output connections ...................................................................................... 3-5
Low-noise input cables......................................................................................................... 3-6
Shielding and guarding ........................................................................................................ 3-6
Noise shield............................................................................................................................... 3-7
Guard shield .............................................................................................................................. 3-8
Safety shield .............................................................................................................................. 3-9
Floating circuits .................................................................................................................. 3-10
Floating voltage source ........................................................................................................... 3-11
Test fixtures ........................................................................................................................ 3-12
Interlock................................................................................................................................... 3-12
Custom-built test fixtures ......................................................................................................... 3-14
Handling and cleaning test fixtures ......................................................................................... 3-18
Basic measurements ................................................................................................ 4-1
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 4-1
Voltage measurements ........................................................................................................ 4-1
Basic voltage measurement procedure ..................................................................................... 4-2
Voltage configuration ................................................................................................................ 4-4
Current measurements ........................................................................................................ 4-5
Basic current measurement procedure ..................................................................................... 4-6
Current configuration ................................................................................................................. 4-8
Resistance and resistivity measurements ............................................................................ 4-9
Automatic voltage source .......................................................................................................... 4-9
Resistance ranges .................................................................................................................. 4-10
Resistance measurements ...................................................................................................... 4-11
Resistivity measurements ....................................................................................................... 4-14
Resistance configuration ......................................................................................................... 4-21
Resistance display .................................................................................................................. 4-22
Charge measurements....................................................................................................... 4-22
Basic charge measurement procedure ................................................................................... 4-23
Charge configuration ............................................................................................................... 4-24
Relative humidity and temperature readings ..................................................................... 4-26
Relative humidity ..................................................................................................................... 4-26
External temperature ............................................................................................................... 4-27
Internal scanning ................................................................................................................ 4-27
Configure internal scanner ...................................................................................................... 4-28
Perform an internal scan ......................................................................................................... 4-29
Close and open channels ........................................................................................................ 4-29
External scanning ............................................................................................................... 4-30
Trigger connections for external scanning............................................................................... 4-30
Configure external channels.................................................................................................... 4-30
Perform the scan ..................................................................................................................... 4-31
Model 6517B
of contents
Electrometer User's Manual Table
Maintenance .............................................................................................................. 5-1
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 5-1
Line fuse ............................................................................................................................... 5-1
Line fuse replacement ............................................................................................................... 5-2
Change the line voltage ....................................................................................................... 5-3
Upgrading the firmware ........................................................................................................ 5-3
Status and error messages .................................................................................................. 5-3
Options and accessories ...........................................................1-3
Section 1
Introduction
In this section:
Welcome ...................................................................................1-1
Capabilities and features overview ...........................................1-1
Extended warranty ....................................................................1-2
Contact information ...................................................................1-2
General ratings .........................................................................1-2
Unpacking and inspection for damage ......................................1-3
Returning instrument for service ...............................................1-3
Shipment contents ....................................................................1-3
Welcome
The 6½-digit 6517B Electrometer/High Resistance Meter offers 1 fA sensitivity and > 200TΩ input
impedance on voltage measurements and charge measurements down to 10 fC.
This manual provides basic instrument information to help you get started using the 6517B. It also
provides information about the front and rear panels to familiarize you with the instrument.
Capabilities and features overview
The 6517B has the following measurement capabilities:
• DC voltage measurements from 1 μV to 200 V.
• DC current measurements from 10 aA to 20 mA.
• Charge measurements from 1 fC to 2 μC.
• Resistance measurements from 1 Ω to 10
• Surface resistivity measurements.
• Volume resistivity measurements.
• External temperature measurements from –25 °C to 150 °C using the supplied
Model 6517-TP thermocouple.
18
Ω.
• Relative humidity measurements from 0% to 100% using the optional Model 6517-RH
humidity probe.
S
User's Manual
100 to 240 V ac, 50 Hz or 60 Hz
100 VA maximum
See Rear-panel overview (on page 2-4).
For indoor use only
Pollution degree: 1 or 2
ection 1: Introduction Model 6517B Electrometer
Additional capabilities of the 6517B include:
• Built-in voltage source: The 100 V range provides up to ±100 V at 10 mA, while the 1000 V range
provides up to ±1000 V at 1 mA.
• Data storage (50,000 points).
• Built-in math functions.
• Average and median filtering.
• Built-in test sequences.
• Remote operation using the IEEE-488 (GPIB) bus or the RS-232 interface.
• Scan (measure) channels of an external scanner.
• Scan (measure) channels of an internal scanner card (for example, Model 6521 or Model 6522)
installed in the option slot.
Extended warranty
Additional years of warranty coverage are available on many products. These valuable contracts
protect you from unbudgeted service expenses and provide additional years of protection at a fraction
of the price of a repair. Extended warranties are available on new and existing products. Contact your
local Keithley Instruments office, sales partner, or distributor for details.
Contact information
If you have any questions after you review the information in this documentation, please contact your
local Keithley Instruments office, sales partner, or distributor. You can also call the Tektronix
corporate headquarters (toll-free inside the U.S. and Canada only) at 1-800-833-9200. For worldwide
contact numbers, visit tek.com/en/contact-tek
General ratings
The 6517B instrument's general ratings and connections are listed in the following table.
Category Specification
Supply voltage range
Input and output connections
.
Environmental conditions
1-2 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Altitude: Maximum 2000 meters (6562 feet) above sea level
Operating: 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F), 70% relative humidity,
noncondensing, up to 35 °C (95 °F)
Storage: −25 °C to 65 °C (−13 °F to 149 °F)
Model 6517B
Introduction
Electrometer User's Manual Section 1:
Unpacking and inspection for damage
The 6517B was carefully inspected electrically and mechanically before shipment.
There may be a protective film over the display lens, which can be removed.
Before removing the 6517B from the antistatic bag, observe the following handling precautions:
• Always grasp the 6517B by the cover.
• After removing the 6517B from its antistatic bag, inspect it for any obvious signs of physical
damage. Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately.
• When the 6517B is not installed and connected, keep the instrument in its antistatic bag and store
it in the original packing carton.
Save the original packing carton for future shipment.
Returning instrument for service
If you need to return the 6517B for repair or calibration, call 1-800-408-8165 or complete the form at
https://www.tek.com/en/services/repair/rma-request
When you request service, you need the serial number and firmware or software version of
the instrument.
Shipment contents
The following items are included with every 6517B order:
• Model 6517B Electrometer with line cord
• 237-ALG-2 Low Noise Triaxial Cable, 3-slot triaxial to alligator clips, 2 m (6.6 ft)
• 8607 Safety High Voltage Test Leads
• 6517-TP Thermocouple Bead Probe
• CS-1305 Interlock Connector
• Accessories as ordered
• Certificate of calibration
.
Options and accessories
Check tek.com/keithley for options and accessories that are available for use with the 6517B.
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 1-3
Reset the instrument ...............................................................2-21
In this section:
Introduction ...............................................................................2-1
Front-panel overview ................................................................2-1
Rear-panel overview .................................................................2-4
Power the instrument on or off ..................................................2-6
Using the menus .......................................................................2-9
Menu .........................................................................................2-9
Display ....................................................................................2-14
Saving setups .........................................................................2-20
Introduction
Section 2
Getting started
This section provides power-up information and descriptions of the controls and components of
the 6517B.
Front-panel overview
The front panel of the 6517B is shown below. The descriptions of the front panel controls follow.
Figure 1: 6517B front panel
Section
User's Manual
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
1 ANNUNCIATORS
EDIT: Editing voltage source values.
ERR: Questionable reading.
REM: In remote.
TALK: Addressed to talk.
LSTN: Addressed to listen.
SRQ: Service Request.
REL: Displayed reading has relative offset applied.
FILT: Digital filter enabled.
MATH: Math calculation enabled.
AUTO: Autoranging enabled.
ARM: Trigger armed; not in idle.
2 OPTION
Programs and operates an installed option card. Also used to scan external scanner channels.
* (asterisk): Reading is being stored.
3 HANDLE
Pull out and rotate to change the handle position.
4 VOLTAGE SOURCE OPERATE
Indicator is on when the voltage source is on. Off when in standby.
5 RANGE and AUTO
▲: When used to select a range, moves to a higher range. When used while editing values, it
increments the selected digit.
▼: When used to select a range, moves to lower range. When used while editing values,
decrements the selected digit.
AUTO: Enables or disables autorange.
6 VOLTAGE SOURCE
OPER: Toggles the voltage source between operate and standby.
▲ and ▼: Adjust the voltage source value.
2-2 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
7 OPERATION KEYS
Z-CHK: Enables or disables zero check. You must enable zero check before changing functions.
REL: Enables or disables a relative offset reading.
FILTER: Displays the digital filter status for the present function and toggles the filter.
MATH: Displays math calculation and toggles math if configured.
TRIG: Triggers the instrument to make a measurement.
SEQ: Performs the selected test sequence.
◄ and ►: Move cursor among data entry digits, menu selections, and information displays.
INFO: Shows context-sensitive information about the present display.
LOCAL: Cancels remote operation.
STORE: Enables data storage.
RECALL: Displays reading data (reading, number, time). Use the PREV and NEXT keys to
display the maximum, minimum average, and standard deviation of information in the buffer.
CONFIG: Configures functions and operations.
MENU: Saves or restores instrument conditions; sets up communications; performs calibration
and self-tests; defines limits; sets up the digital output; and other operations.
EXIT: Cancels selection or moves to previous menu option.
ENTER: Holds reading, enters selection, or moves down within the menu structure.
8 FUNCTION KEYS
Select the measurement function: Voltage (V), current (I), resistivity (R), or coulombs (Q).
9 DISPLAY KEYS
PREV and NEXT: Scroll through multiple displays of a function.
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-3
Section
User's Manual
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
Rear-panel overview
The rear panel of the 6517B is shown in the following figure. The descriptions of the rear-panel
components follow the figure.
Figure 2: Model 6517B rear panel
1 INPUT CONNECTOR
Unguarded configuration: Disable GUARD for current, resistance, charge, and unguarded voltage
measurements.
Guarded configuration: Enable GUARD for guarded voltage measurements.
Refer to Input configurations (on page 3-1
) for more information.
2 PREAMP OUT
Follows the signal amplitude applied to the INPUT terminal. When GUARD is on, PREAMP OUT
is internally connected to the inner shell of the INPUT triaxial connector to configure the input for
guarded voltage measurements. See "Preamplifier output" in the Model 6517B Reference Manual
for more information.
2-4 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
3 COMMON
4 Chassis ground
Connects the chassis to ground through the power line cord. For use with a noise shield, refer to
Connector that is internally connected to INPUT low.
Noise shield (on page 3-7
).
COMMON can also be grounded by plugging the chassis ground cable into COMMON.
For safety concerns when making floating measurements, refer to Floating circuits (on page
3-
10).
5 2V OUT
Connector that provides a scaled 0 V to 2 V analog output that is referenced to COMMON.
Typically connected to a measuring device such as a chart recorder. Rated at 2 V dc maximum.
See “2 V analog output” in the Model 6517B Electrometer Reference Manual for more
information.
6 HUMIDITY
Connect the optional Model 6517-RH humidity probe to this connector for relative humidity
measurements. See Relative humidity (on page 4-26
) for more information.
7 TEMP TYPE K
Connect the Model 6517-TP type K thermocouple to this connector for temperature
measurements. See External temperature (on page 4-27
) for more information.
8 Power line input module
Provides connections for the power line input and contains the line fuse. If the fuse needs to be
replaced, refer to Line fuse replacement (on page 5-2, on page 5-1
).
9 IEEE-488 CONNECTOR
Connects the instrument to the IEEE-488 (GPIB) bus. Refer to “Remote operations” in the Model
6517B Electrometer Reference Manual.
10 INTERLOCK
Connects the safety interlock to a test fixture using an appropriate cable. See Interlock
(on page
3-12) for more information.
11 RS-232
DB-9 connector for the RS-232 interface. Refer to “Remote operations” in the Model 6517B
Electrometer Reference Manual.
12 DIGITAL I/O
A male DB-9 connector for the four TTL-compatible digital output lines. Refer to “Digital I/O” in the
Model 6517B Electrometer Reference Manual.
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-5
Section
User's Manual
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
13 TRIGGER LINK
An 8-pin micro DIN connector for sending and receiving trigger pulses to and from other
instruments.
14 V-SOURCE HI and LO
Safety banana jacks for the voltage source. Rated at 1000 V maximum.
15 OPTION SLOT
Power the instrument on or off
The power cord supplied with the 6517B 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.
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.
Before powering the instrument, verify that line input voltage is set to the correct range for the power
supply used to power the 6517B. See Change the line voltage (on page 5-3) if you need to change
the line input voltage.
A slot for option cards, such as the Model 6521 or Model 6522 scanner card.
Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage may cause damage to the instrument,
ssibly voiding the warranty.
po
To connect the power cord:
1. Make sure that the front-panel POWER switch is in the off (O) position.
2. Connect the socket of the supplied power cord to the ac receptacle on the rear panel.
3. Connect the plug of the power cord to a grounded ac outlet.
To turn a 6517B on or off:
• Before turning the instrument on, disconnect any devices under test (DUTs) from the 6517B.
• To turn your instrument on, press the front-panel POWER switch to place it in the on (|) position.
• To turn your instrument off, press the front-panel POWER switch to place it in the off (O) position.
2-6 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
IEEE-488 address
Electrically-erasable PROM
Power-up default
Electrically-erasable PROM
Calibration constants
Electrically-erasable PROM
Calibration dates
Electrically-erasable PROM
Instrument setups
Ten in electrically-erasable PROM
Reading buffer
Nonvolatile RAM
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
Power-up sequence
When the 6517B is powered up, it performs the following tests:
• Self-tests on its EEPROM and RAM
• Checksum tests on data stored in nonvolatile memory
If a failure is detected, the instrument momentarily displays an error message and the ERR
annunciator turns on.
If the instrument passes the tests, the firmware revision levels and the communications status are
briefly displayed. An example of this display is shown as follows:
Model 6517B
Rev. A01 700x SCPI: 27
The firmware revision levels (left to right) are for the main microcontroller and display microcontroller.
In the example above, SCPI indicates that the SCPI language is selected and 27 is the IEEE-488
address. If the RS-232 interface is selected, the message RS-232 MODE is displayed instead of the
IEEE-488 address.
If the instrument is configured to display the calibration due date when it is turned on, the calibration
due date is displayed. The format is mm/dd/yy, where mmm is the month abbreviation, dd is the day,
and yy is the year. If no calibration date is set, the display shows that it is due now.
After the power-up sequence, the instrument opens to the main display with ZeroCheck displayed.
To achieve rate accuracies, allow the instrument to warm up for at least one hour before use.
Power-up error messages
The 6517B performs the following checksum tests on power-up.
Data Type of storage
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-7
Section
User's Manual
Error −314
Save/recall memory lost
Instrument setup is reset to bench defaults, which are
stored in EEPROM.
Error +510
Reading buffer data lost
The reading buffer controls are reset to factory defaults,
store readings in the buffer.
Error +511
GPIB address lost
GPIB address is reset to factory default (27) and stored
into EEPROM.
Error +512
Power-up state lost
Power-up defaults are reset to factory defaults (bench)
and stored into EEPROM.
Error +514
Calibration lost
Calibration constants are set to factory default values,
values, perform a comprehensive calibration.
Error +515
Calibration dates lost
The calibration dates are set to factory default values,
values, perform a comprehensive calibration.
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
The error messages that may be displayed during the power-up sequence are summarized in
the following table. These are shown when one of the checksum tests fails.
Message Description Action
but they are not stored into NVRAM. To store the values,
but they are not stored into EEPROM. To store the
but they are not stored into EEPROM. To store the
Set the power-on defaults
You can select the instrument defaults that go into effect when the instrument is powered on.
For more information on the PRESET and *RST options, refer to Reset the instrument (on page
21). For more information on user setups, refer to Saving setups (on page 2-20).
To set the power-on defaults:
1. Press the MENU key to display the main menu.
2. Select SAVESETUP.
3. Press the ENTER key. The Setup Menu is displayed.
4. Select POWERON. Press the ENTER key.
5. Select the power-on default:
PRESET: Set the instrument to a state optimized for front-panel operation.
*RST: Set the instrument to a state optimized for remote operation.
USER-SETUP-NUMBER: Select a user set up. Press the ENTER key, then use the RANGE
▲ and ▼ keys to select a user setup (0 to 9).
6. Press the ENTER key to save the power-on default setting.
2-
2-8 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
Using the menus
The 6517B has main and configure menus. The main menu accesses items for which there are no
dedicated keys. The configure menus set up measurement functions and other instrument operations.
To access the main menu, press the MENU key. The top level of the main menu is displayed. The
main menu options are described in the following topics.
To access a configure menu, press the CONFIG key and then the function key (V, I, R, or Q) or
operation key (such as TRIG, SEQ, or STORE). The configure menu options are described in the
sections that describe the functions or options that you can configure.
To select a menu item, use the ◄ and ► keys to move the cursor, then press the ENTER key. The
blinking menu item or parameter indicates the cursor position.
If there are additional items you can select, an arrow (◄ or ►) is displayed. Use the ◄ and ► keys to
display them.
To enter a numeric value, move the cursor to the digit to be changed and use the RANGE ▲ or ▼
key to increment or decrement the digit.
Menu
Press the CONFIG key and then the ▲ or ▼ keys to display the CONFIGURE V-SOURCE menu.
Press the ENTER key to save changes.
The EXIT key performs several functions:
• Returns to previous menus.
• Exits the menu.
• Discards changes. Any change that is not entered is canceled when EXIT is pressed.
• Cancels display of messages and returns to the menu or reading display.
• Cancels reading display hold and resumes the normal reading display.
• Disables scanning and stops data storage.
• Stops data storage (the message STORAGE INTERRUPTED is displayed).
The main menu accesses the various instrument operations for which there are no dedicated keys,
such as storage setup, communication setup, calibration, self-test, and limits. The main menu
structure is summarized in the following table, along with the reference section number that includes
more detailed information on that menu selection.
To display the top level of the main menu, press the MENU key. Refer to Using the menus
2-9) for more information.
The main menus of the 6517B are described in the following topics.
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-9
(on page
Section
User's Manual
Save the present setup at a memory location (0 to 9)
Saving setups (on page 2-20)
Return the instrument to a setup that was previously stored in
memory.
Saving setups (on page 2-20)
Select the instrument setup that goes into effect when the
power-on default conditions.
Set the power on defaults (on
Resets the instrument to the bench or GPIB default
conditions.
Reset the instrument (on
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
SAVESETUP
The SAVESETUP option of the main menu is used for the following operations:
• To save the present instrument configuration in nonvolatile memory
• To restore the instrument to a previously saved instrument configuration
• To set the power-up configuration of the instrument
• To reset the instrument to a factory default configuration
The SAVESETUP menu options are described in the following table.
Menu item Description Refer to:
SAVE
RESTORE
POWERON
instrument is turned on. The options are:
page 2-8)
PRESET: Return to the bench default conditions.
*RST: Return to the remote operation
default conditions.
USER-SETUP-NUMBER: Select a user setup as the
RESET
conditions. The RESET options are:
page 2-21)
BENCH: The instrument returns to the bench default
conditions.
GPIB: The instrument returns to the GPIB default
2-10 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Options to select and configure GPIB operations:
timestamp, status, and temperature)
Remote operations
temperature, and status.
View calibration dates.
Select whether to show calibration dates at powerup.
Select to open the FRONT PANEL TESTS menu.
Verify operation of the front-panel keys. When you
press a key, the name of the key is displayed.
Displays all annunciators and characters on the display and runs a check of the
display. Press the ► key to move through the displays for this test.
Display the entire character set. Press the ► key to move through the displays
for this test.
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
COMMUNICATION
The COMMUNICATION menu option allows you to select and configure the GPIB or RS-232 bus.
Menu item Description
GPIB
Refer to the following
section in the Model
6517B Electrometer
Reference Manual
ADDRESS: Check or change IEEE-488 bus address (0 to 30)
ELEMENTS: Selects GPIB data elements, including readings,
units, reading number, relative humidity, channel number,
CAL
TEST
RS-232
Options to select and configure RS-232 operations:
RS-232 serial interface
BAUD: Selects the baud rate.
TERMINATOR: Select the terminating character.
FLOW-CTRL: Select the flow control.
ELEMENTS: Select the data elements to send, such as
reading, units, reading number, relative humidity, channel
number, timestamp, internal temperature, external
The CALIBRATION menu displays the calibration dates and allows you to set the option to display
calibration dates on power up.
For more information on calibration, refer to “Calibration procedure” in the Model 6517B Electrometer
Reference Manual.
Menu item Description
VIEW
DISPLAY-AT-POWERUP
Select TEST to open a SELF-TEST menu. The options in this menu provide diagnostic tools to isolate
problems with the 6517B front-panel display.
Menu item Description
DISPLAY-TESTS
KEYS
DISPLAY-PATTERNS
CHAR-SET
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-11
Section
User's Manual
Settings for limit 1:
HILIM1: Set the value of high limit 1.
Settings for limit 2:
HILIM2:
Enable or disable the limit strobe signal of digital output 4 when a trigger occurs.
Specify patterns on digital outputs to signify limit pass.
LIMITS
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
The LIMITS menu sets and controls the limit values that determine the PASS or FAIL and HI or LO
status of subsequent measurements and sets the digital output patterns that signify passing or failing
limit checks.
For more information on these options, refer to “Limits” in the Model 6517B Electrometer
Reference Manual.
Menu item Description
LIMIT-SET-1
CONTROL: Enable or disable the limit 1 setting.
LOLIM1: Set the value of low limit 1.
LIMIT-SET-2
CONTROL: Enable or disable the limit 2 setting.
LOLIM2: Set the value of low limit 2.
STROBE-CONTROL
Set the value of high limit 2.
PASS-PATTERN
STATUS-MSG
This selection enables or disables the status messages. When enabled, status messages are
displayed to identify specific operations that are performed. You can select:
• ON: Enable status messages.
• OFF: Disable the status messages.
When the status messages are enabled, the instrument may become so busy displaying status
messages that key presses are no longer acknowledged. To clear the messages, press the EXIT
key. You can also send the bus command :DISPlay:SMESsage OFF to stop displaying messages.
GENERAL
The GENERAL menu:
• Controls the state and sense of the digital outputs.
• Allows you to view the serial number, SCPI version, and firmware revision levels of the 6517B.
• Sets line synchronization of readings, displays the frequency of the line power, and configures the
A/D to measure humidity and external temperature.
2-12 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Sets up the digital output lines:
sense of digital output lines.
“Digital I/O” in the Model
Displays serial number, memory option SCPI
version, and firmware revisions.
Display instrument
information (on page 2-15)
Settings for the analog-to-digital converter:
FAST autorange speed.
“Line synchronization” in in
Configures the timestamp:
to zero.
“Set up timestamps” in the
Display menu:
(C, K, or F).
Display (on page 2-14)
Clock menu:
24-hour format)
Time, day, and date (on page
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
• Configures timestamp.
• Chooses the characters displayed for decimal and select measurement units.
• Sets the real-time clock.
Menu item Description Refer to:
DIGOUT
SERIAL #
A/D-CONTROLS
TIMESTAMP
STATE: Checks or changes the states of the
digital output lines.
LOGIC_SENSE: Displays or changes the
LINE-SYNC: Enables or disables line
synchronization. Also displays the power-line
frequency.
DATA-STAMP: Configures the A/D to
measure the humidity and external
temperature.
LIMIT-CTRL: Enables or disables the A/D
hardware limit.
AUTORANGE SPEED: Select NORMAL or
TYPE: Check or change type. RELATIVE-
TIME references the timestamp to relative
time. REAL-TIME references the timestamp to
real time.
RESET-TIME: Resets the relative timestamp
to zero.
RESET-RDG#: Resets the reading number
6517B Electrometer
Reference Manual
the Model 6517B
Electrometer Reference
Manual
Relative humidity and
external temperature
readings (on page 4-26)
“OUT OF LIMIT messages”
and “Measurement range” in
in the Model 6517B
Electrometer Reference
Manual
Model 6517B Electrometer
Reference Manual
DISPLAY
CLOCK
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-13
NUMERIC-FORMAT: Selects measurement
units (engineering or scientific).
TEMP-UNITS: Selects temperature units
TIME: Checks or sets time of day.
DATE: Checks or sets date.
FORMAT: Selects clock format: (12-hour or
2-16)
Section
User's Manual
Picoamperes
pA
10
-12
A
e-12A
Nanoamperes
nA
10-9 A
e-9A
Microamperes
µA
10-6 A
e-6A
Milliamps
mA
10-3 A
e-3A
Nanocoulombs
nC
10-9 C
e-9C
Microcoulombs
µC
10-6 C
e-6C
Kilo-ohms
kΩ
103 Ω
e3Ω
Mega-ohms
MΩ
106 Ω
e6Ω
GΩ
e9Ω
Tera-ohms
TΩ
1012 Ω
e12Ω
Peta-ohms
PΩ
1015 Ω
e15Ω
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
Display
The display of the 6517B provides measurement readings with their units and types of
measurements. It also displays informational messages, such as menu headings and selections. The
top of the display has annunciators that indicate states of operation.
The top line of the display shows readings and units. It can also display the measurement type, hold,
the math operation type, channel number, menu headings, and messages.
The bottom line of the display shows the range, voltage source value, menu items, messages, and
NEXT displays. Longer text strings are indicated by arrows on either side of the text. Use the ◄ and
► keys to display the additional information.
Exponent mode (engineering or scientific)
Readings on the display can be expressed in engineering units or in scientific notation. Examples are
shown in the table below. When scientific notation is selected, the exponent can be fixed to a
specified value or it can be floating. When the exponent is set to float, the instrument automatically
selects the exponent value.
Typical display exponent values
Engineering units Scientific notation
Value Display Value Display
Giga-ohms
109 Ω
2-14 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
To change how the readings are displayed:
1. Press the MENU key.
2. Select GENERAL.
3. Select DISPLAY.
4. Select NUMERIC-FORMAT.
5. To select:
Engineering units: Select ENGR.
Scientific notation: Select SCIENTIFIC.
6. Press the ENTER key.
7. If you select SCIENTIFIC, you can also select:
Change value automatically to best fix data: FLOATING.
A fixed value: FIXED.
8. Press the ENTER key.
Messages
Press the INFO key to view context-sensitive information on the display. An arrow on the bottom line
indicates that there is more information. Use the ◄ and ► keys to view the complete line. To exit an
INFO display, press the INFO, ENTER, EXIT, or a function key.
During 6517B operation and programming, the instrument may display front-panel status and error
messages. To momentarily display the most recent status or error message, press the MENU key
and press the PREV display key. The display is blank if no message is queued. For more information
on status and error message, refer to Status and error messages (on page 5-3
Display instrument information
This item displays the serial number, SCPI version, and firmware revision levels of the instrument.
The following information is displayed:
Serial #XXXXXXX
Rev AYY.Y Disp:ZZZx A:E D:B H:E SCPI:1999.0
Where:
• #XXXXXXX is the serial number of the instrument
• AYY is the firmware level for the main microcontroller
).
• ZZZ is the firmware level for the display microcontroller
You can also use *IDN? to retrieve the serial number and firmware revision information.
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-15
Section
User's Manual
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
To display instrument information:
1. Press the MENU key.
2. Select the GENERAL menu.
3. Select SERIAL #.
4. Press the ENTER key.
Measurement function displays
Each measurement function has its own set of displays, shown in the bottom line of the front-panel
display. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to scroll through the selections for the presently
selected function.
The displays show a reading in a different form or give additional information about the reading.
For example:
• Top line shows a reading.
• Bottom line shows a zero-center bar graph with adjustable limits.
• Calculations display if math is enabled.
Displays that are specific to a particular function or operation are discussed with that function or
operation. The displays that are common to all measurement functions are:
• Time, day, and date
• Bar graph
• Zero-centered bar graph
• Maximum and minimum values
• Actual value without relative offset
• Calculated and actual values
• Limits bar graph
• Relative humidity and external temperature stamp
• Range and voltage source
Time, day, and date
This display provides the time, day of week, and the date. The time, date, and format (12-hour or 24hour) are set using the CLOCK menu option. An example of the time and date display is shown in the
following figure.
Figure 3: Time, day, and date display
2-16 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
Model 6517B
Getting started
Electrometer User's Manual Section 2:
To set the clock:
1. On the front panel, press the MENU key.
2. Select the GENERAL menu.
3. Select CLOCK.
4. Select DATE.
5. Use the ◄ and ► cursor keys and the RANGE keys to set the date. The day of the week (such
as Sun or Mon) is automatically calculated and displayed for the date.
6. Press the ENTER key.
7. Select FORMAT.
8. Select 12-HOUR or 24-HOUR.
9. Press the ENTER key.
10. Select TIME.
11. Use the ◄ and ► cursor keys and the RANGE keys to set the time (hours:minutes:seconds). To
set the seconds to zero, press the AUTO key. If 12-HOUR is set for the FORMAT, change the
hour until AM or PM is displayed correctly.
Bar graph
12. Press the ENTER key.
The normal bar graph is a graphical representation of a reading as a portion of a range, as shown in
the following figure. The vertical lines displayed along the bar designate 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and
100% of full scale. Each full segment of the bar represents approximately 4% of the range limit.
The right endpoint of the bar graph is + full scale of the present range for positive readings and − full
scale for negative readings. When the 100% line changes to an arrow, the reading exceeds the
current range.
Figure 4: Bar graph display
6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022 2-17
Section
User's Manual
2: Getting started Model 6517B Electrometer
Zero-centered bar graph
The zero-centered bar graph is a graphical representation of a reading with positive and negative
limits, as shown in the figure below. The limits are expressed in a user-selectable percentage
of range.
The vertical lines displayed along the bar designate the positive and negative limits, zero, and
halfway to either limit. There are ten full segments between zero and each end, so each full segment
represents 10% of the limit. When a line at the limit changes to an arrow, the reading exceeds the
programmed range.
Figure 5: Zero-centered bar graph display
The plus and minus percentage of range that is programmed (0.01% to 99.99%) applies to all
functions. Because of rounding, values greater than 99.5% are shown as 100% and, likewise, values
greater than 1% (such as 1.67%) are shown rounded to the nearest integer percent.
To view or change the percentage of range:
1. On a measurement function display, press the CONFIG key.
2. Press the NEXT or PREV key. The following is displayed:
ZERO-BARGRAPH±50.00%
3. Use the cursor keys and the RANGE keys to enter a numeric value (0.01% to 99.99%).
4. Press the ENTER key to change the bar graph.
2-18 6517B-900-01 Rev. B August 2022
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