Tektronix DAS-TC/B Users Guide

DAS-TC/B

User’s Guide

A GREATER MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE

WARRANTY

Hardware

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants that, for a period of one (1) year from the date of shipment (3 years for Models 2000,
2001, 2002, 2010 and 2700), the Keithley Hardware product will be free from defects in materials or workmanship. This
warranty will be honored provided the defect has not been caused by use of the Keithley Hardware not in accordance with
the instructions for the product. This warranty shall be null and void upon: (1) any modification of Keithley Hardware that
is made by other than Keithley and not approved in writing by Keithley or (2) operation of the Keithley Hardware outside
of the environmental specifications therefore.

Upon receiving notification of a defect in the Keithley Hardware during the warranty period, Keithley will, at its option,
either repair or replace such Keithley Hardware. During the first ninety days of the warranty period, Keithley will, at its
option, supply the necessary on site labor to return the product to the condition prior to the notification of a defect. Failure
to notify Keithley of a defect during the warranty shall relieve Keithley of its obligations and liabilities under this
warranty.

Other Hardware

The portion of the product that is not manufactured by Keithley (Other Hardware) shall not be covered by this warranty,
and Keithley shall have no duty of obligation to enforce any manufacturers' warranties on behalf of the customer. On those
other manufacturers’ products that Keithley purchases for resale, Keithley shall have no duty of obligation to enforce any
manufacturers’ warranties on behalf of the customer.

Software

Keithley warrants that for a period of one (1) year from date of shipment, the Keithley produced portion of the software or
firmware (Keithley Software) will conform in all material respects with the published specifications provided such Keithley
Software is used on the product for which it is intended and otherwise in accordance with the instructions therefore.
Keithley does not warrant that operation of the Keithley Software will be uninterrupted or error-free and/or that the Keithley
Software will be adequate for the customer's intended application and/or use. This warranty shall be null and void upon any
modification of the Keithley Software that is made by other than Keithley and not approved in writing by Keithley.

If Keithley receives notification of a Keithley Software nonconformity that is covered by this warranty during the warranty
period, Keithley will review the conditions described in such notice. Such notice must state the published specification(s)
to which the Keithley Software fails to conform and the manner in which the Keithley Software fails to conform to such
published specification(s) with sufficient specificity to permit Keithley to correct such nonconformity. If Keithley deter­mines that the Keithley Software does not conform with the published specifications, Keithley will, at its option, provide
either the programming services necessary to correct such nonconformity or develop a program change to bypass such
nonconformity in the Keithley Software. Failure to notify Keithley of a nonconformity during the warranty shall relieve
Keithley of its obligations and liabilities under this warranty.

Other Software

OEM software that is not produced by Keithley (Other Software) shall not be covered by this warranty, and Keithley shall
have no duty or obligation to enforce any OEM's warranties on behalf of the customer.

Other Items

Keithley warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment: probes, cables, rechargeable batteries, diskettes,
and documentation.

Items not Covered under Warranty

This warranty does not apply to fuses, non-rechargeable batteries, damage from battery leakage, or problems arising from
normal wear or failure to follow instructions.

Limitation of Warranty

This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification made by Purchaser without Keithley's express
written consent, or by misuse of any product or part.

Disclaimer of Warranties

EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES ABOVE KEITHLEY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT­ABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. KEITHLEY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES WITH
RESPECT TO THE OTHER HARDWARE AND OTHER SOFTWARE.

Limitation of Liability

KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS SHALL IN NO EVENT, REGARDLESS OF CAUSE, ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR
OR BE LIABLE FOR: (1) ECONOMICAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE OR
EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, WHETHER CLAIMED UNDER CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY,
(2) LOSS OF OR DAMAGE TO THE CUSTOMER'S DATA OR PROGRAMMING, OR (3) PENALTIES OR PENALTY
CLAUSES OF ANY DESCRIPTION OR INDEMNIFICATION OF THE CUSTOMER OR OTHERS FOR COSTS, DAM­AGES, OR EXPENSES RELATED TO THE GOODS OR SERVICES PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY.

Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Sales Offices: BELGIUM: Bergensesteenweg 709 • B-1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw • 02-363 00 40 • Fax: [phone]

CHINA: Yuan Chen Xin Building, Room 705 • 12 Yumin Road, Dewai, Madian • Beijing 100029 • 8610-6202-2886 • Fax: [phone]
FINLAND: Tietäjäntie 2 • 02130 Espoo • Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
FRANCE: 3, allée des Garays • 91127 Palaiseau Cédex • 01-64 53 20 20 • Fax: [phone]
GERMANY: Landsberger Strasse 65 • 82110 Germering • 089/84 93 07-40 • Fax: [phone]
GREAT BRITAIN: Unit 2 Commerce Park, Brunel Road • Theale • Berkshire RG7 4AB • 0118 929 7500 • Fax: [phone]
INDIA: Flat 2B, Willocrissa • 14, Rest House Crescent • Bangalore 560 001 • 91-80-509-1320/21 • Fax: [phone]
ITALY: Viale San Gimignano, 38 • 20146 Milano • 02-48 39 16 01 • Fax: [phone]
JAPAN: New Pier Takeshiba North Tower 13F • 11-1, Kaigan 1-chome • Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0022 • 81-3-5733-7555 • Fax: [phone]
KOREA: 2FL., URI Building • 2-14 Yangjae-Dong • Seocho-Gu, Seoul 137-888 • 82-2-574-7778 • Fax: [phone]
NETHERLANDS: Postbus 559 • 4200 AN Gorinchem • 0183-635333 • Fax: [phone]
SWEDEN: c/o Regus Business Centre • Frosundaviks Allé 15, 4tr • 169 70 Solna • 08-509 04 679 • Fax: [phone]
SWITZERLAND: Kriesbachstrasse 4 • 8600 Dübendorf • 01-821 94 44 • Fax: [phone]
TAIWAN: 1FL., 85 Po Ai Street • Hsinchu, Taiwan, R.O.C. • 886-3-572-9077• Fax: [phone]

28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139 • 440-248-0400 • Fax: [phone]

1-888-KEITHLEY (534-8453) • www.keithley.com

4/02

DAS-TC/B User’s Guide

Revision C - June 2002

Part Number: 95630

Basic™ is a trademark of Dartmouth College.

IBM® is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

PC, XT, and AT® are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation.

Microsoft® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

Turbo C® is a registered trademark of Borland International.

DriverLINX is a registered trademark of Scientific Software Tools, Inc.

All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.

Information furnished by Keithley Instruments is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, Keithley Instruments assumes no responsibility for the use of such information nor
for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its
use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent rights of Keithley

Instruments.

WARNING

Keithley Instruments assumes no responsibility for damages consequent to

the use of this product. This product is not designed with components of a level of

reliability suitable for use in life support or critical applications.

S

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 non-hazardous voltages, there are situations
where hazardous conditions may be present.

This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety
precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information
carefully before using the product. Refer to the manual for complete product specifications.

If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection provided by the product 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 manual. 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, and perform safe installations and repairs of products. Only

properly trained service personnel may perform installation and service procedures.

Keithley products are designed for use with electrical signals that are rated Installation Category I and Installation
Category II, as described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664. Most mea­surement, control, and data I/O signals are Installation Category I and must not be directly connected to mains voltage
or to voltage sources with high transient over-voltages. Installation Category II connections require protection for high
transient over-voltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Assume all measurement, control, and data
I/O connections are for connection to Category I sources unless otherwise marked or described in the Manual.

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 30V RMS, 42.4V peak, or 60VDC are present.

age 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 volts,

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, make sure 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.

afety Precautions

A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous volt-

no conductive part of the circuit

5/02

When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main
input power disconnect device must be provided, in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the
operator.

For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the cir­cuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting
or disconnecting cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as in­stalling or removing jumpers.

Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth)
ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the
voltage being measured.

The instrument and accessories must be used in accordance with its specifications and operating instructions or the
safety of the equipment may be impaired.

Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories, as defined in the specifications and op­erating information, and as shown on the instrument or test fixture panels, or switching card.

When fuses are used in a product, replace with same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard.

Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as safety earth ground con­nections.

If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation re­quires the use of a lid interlock.

If or is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire recommended in the user documentation.

!

The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the manual.

The symbol on an instrument shows that it can source or measure 1000 volts or more, including the combined
effect of normal and common mode voltages. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these
voltages.

The

WARNING

associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.

The

CAUTION

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 Instruments. Standard fuses, with applicable
national safety approvals, may be used if the rating and type are the same. Other components that are not safety related
may be purchased from other suppliers as long as they are equivalent to the original component. (Note that selected parts
should be purchased only through Keithley Instruments to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product.) If you
are unsure about the applicability of a replacement component, call a Keithley Instruments office for information.

To clean an instrument, use a damp cloth or mild, water based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do
not apply cleaner directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist
of a circuit board with no case or chassis (e.g., 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.

heading in a manual explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the

heading in a manual explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate

Table of Contents

Preface

1

Overview

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Supporting Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2

DriverLINX Driver Software for Windows 95/98/NT . . . . . .1-2

TestPoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

LabVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

2

Functional Description

Control Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

Operational Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

3

Installation

Inventorying Required Installation Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

Installing the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Installing Application Software and Drivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Installing the TestPoint software and driver. . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Installing the LabVIEW Software and Driver . . . . . . . . . .3-3

Installing DriverLINX Software Components and

Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

DriverLINX Installation Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

DriverLINX Installation Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Configuring Your Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Preparing and Installing Your Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Unwrapping and Inspecting Your Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Setting the Base Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Installing the Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Checking Your Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

ix

4

Cabling and Wiring

Using Screw Terminal Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Features of Screw Terminal Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Cold Junction Compensation (CJC) Temperature Sensor . 4-4

Open-Thermocouple Detection Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Ground Terminals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Connecting an STC-TC/B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Connecting an STA-TC/B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Connecting Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7

Understanding the DAS-TC/B Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Connecting an Ungrounded Thermocouple . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Connecting Other Signal Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-13

Connecting a Floating Signal Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Connecting a Grounded Signal Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

5

The DAS-TC/B Data Logger

Features of the DAS-TC/B Data Logger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Starting the DAS-TC/B Data Logger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Using the DAS-TC/B Data Logger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

6

Calibration

7

Troubleshooting

Problem Isolation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Testing the Board and Host Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Testing the Accessory Slot and I/O Connections . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5

A

Specifications

B

Connector Pin Assignments

C

CE Information
for the DAS-TC/B

Limitation of Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Declaration of Conformity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

Cabling Instructions for the CE Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

x

List of Illustrations

Figure 2-1. Block Diagram of DAS-TC/B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Figure 3-1. Base Address Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10

Figure 4-1. STC-TC/B Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Figure 4-2. STA-TC/B Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Figure 4-3. Schematic for CJC Temperature Sensor Circuit . . 4-4

Figure 4-4. Attaching an STC-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B . . . . . . .4-7

Figure 4-5. Attaching an STA-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B . . . . . . .4-7

Figure 4-6. DAS-TC/B Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

Figure 4-7. Connecting an Ungrounded Thermocouple. . . . .4-11

Figure 4-8. Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple. . . . . . . .4-12

Figure 4-9. Connecting a Floating Signal Source,

Method 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-13

Figure 4-10. Connecting a Floating Signal Source,

Method 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14

Figure 4-11. Connecting a Grounded Signal Source . . . . . . . .4-15

Figure 6-1. Test Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-1

Figure B-1. Pin Assignments for DAS-TC/B

Main I/O Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Figure C-1. Connecting a DAS-TC/B Board

to an STC-TC/B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

Figure C-2. Connecting a DAS-TC/B Board

to an STA-TC/B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

xi

List of Tables

Table 7-1. Troubleshooting Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

Table A-1. Analog Input Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Table A-2. Conversion Rate Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Table A-3. Temperature/Voltage Specifications . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Table A-4. Voltage Input Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Table A-5. Thermocouple Input Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Table A-6. Noise Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Table A-7. Maximum Gain Error Temperature Coefficients A-4

Table A-8. Environmental and Physical Requirements. . . . . A-4

Table A-9. Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4

Table A-10. Board Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5

xii

Preface

The

DAS-TC/B User’s Guide

handling and using a DAS-TC/B thermocouple/voltage measuring board.
To follow the information and instructions contained in this manual, you
must be familiar with data-acquisition principles, with your application,
and with the Windows
computers. This product works best with a computer having a
Pentium-series processor.

The

DAS-TC/B User’s Guide

• Section 1 describes board features, software, and accessories.

• Section 2 describes operating features of a board in more detail. This
section contains a block diagram and brief descriptions of the features
as they relate to your options for setting up and using a board.

• Section 3 contains instructions for inspection, software installation,
configuration, and board installation.

contains information and instructions for

®

95/98/NT operating system and compatible

is organized as follows:

• Section 4 shows the preferred methods of making I/O (Input/Output)
connections, using the available accessories and cables.

• Section 5 summarizes the features of the DriverLINX DAS-TC/B
Data Logger program, how to start the program, how to access
detailed information, and instructions.

• Section 6 describes calibration requirements.

• Section 7 contains information on troubleshooting and on obtaining
technical support.

xiii

• Appendix A contains specifications.

• Appendix B contains pin assignments for the main I/O connector.

• Appendix C contains CE mark certification.

• The index provides hyperlinks, as well as written page numbers, to
locate various subjects in the manual.

xiv

Features

1

Overview

The DAS-TC/B is a thermocouple/voltage measuring board that accepts
up to 16 inputs. You can configure input channels individually to accept
inputs from thermocouples or other voltage sources. Channels configured
for thermocouple inputs provide readings in degrees (Celsius or
Fahrenheit), while channels configured for voltage inputs provide
readings in volts.

This section describes the DAS-TC/B features, software, and accessories.

DAS-TC/B features are as follows:

The board fits an accessory slot of a computer.

●

●

All 16 channels are differential inputs.

●

Thermocouple inputs can be any mix of up to seven standard types, as
follows: B, E,

●

Thermocouple measurements are linearized by an onboard
microprocessor for readings in degrees.

Open-thermocouple detection is selectable.

●

●

Automatic CJC (cold-junction compensation) is performed on a
per-channel-basis and is continuous.

Calibration of the CJC and board logging parameters is automatic and

●

continuous.

●

Inputs to the DAS-TC/B enter through either a plug-in screw-terminal
block (the STC-TC/B) or an external screw-terminal box (the
STA-TC/B).

Features 1-1

J, K, R, S, and T.

CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio) is greater than 100dB for

●

gains greater than one.

●

The rejection rate is configurable for 50, 60, or 400Hz.
Analog inputs (measurement section) are electrically isolated from

●

the PC.

●

The board can perform onboard averaging.

Supporting Software

Available software allows you to take two different approaches to
configuring and running your DAS-TC/B board. You can use a fully
integrated data acquisition software package (TestPoint or LabVIEW) or
write a custom program in Visual C/C++, Visual Basic, or Delphi using
DriverLINX (included with the hardware). A summary of the pros and
cons of using integrated packages or writing custom programs is provided
in the Keithley Full Line Catalog. The DAS-TC/B has fully functional
driver support for use under Windows 95/98/NT.

Note:

DriverLINX must be installed to run any applications for the
board, whether they are custom-programmed applications or integrated
software packages, such as TestPoint or LabVIEW.

The characteristics of DriverLINX, TestPoint, and LabVIEW are
summarized below.

DriverLINX Driver Software for Windows 95/98/NT

DriverLINX software, supplied by Keithley with the DAS-TC/B board,
provides convenient interfaces to configure and set I/O bits without
register-level programming.

Most importantly, however, DriverLINX supports those programmers
who want to create custom applications using Visual C/C++, Visual
Basic, or Delphi. DriverLINX accomplishes foreground and background

1-2 Overview

tasks to perform data acquisition. The software includes memory and data
buffer management, event triggering, extensive error checking, and
context sensitive online help.

More specifically, DriverLINX provides application developers a
standardized interface to over 100 services for creating foreground and
background tasks for the following:

Analog input and output

●

●

Digital input and output

●

Time and frequency measurement
Event counting

●

●

Pulse output

●

Period measurement

In addition to basic I/O support, DriverLINX also provides:

●

Built-in capabilities to handle memory and data buffer management

●

A selection of starting and stopping trigger events, including
pre-triggering, mid-point triggering, and post-triggering protocols

●

Extensive error checking

●

Context-sensitive on-line help system

DriverLINX is essentially hardware independent; its portable APIs work
across various operating systems. This capability eliminates unnecessary
programming when changing operating system platforms.

TestPoint

TestPoint is a fully featured, integrated application package that
incorporates many commonly used math, analysis, report generation, and
graphics functions. TestPoint’s graphical drag-and-drop interface can be
used to create data acquisition applications, without programming, for
IEEE-488 instruments, data acquisition boards, and RS232-485
instruments and devices.

Supporting Software 1-3

LabVIEW

Accessories

TestPoint includes features for controlling external devices, responding to
events, processing data, creating report files, and exchanging information
with other Windows programs. It provides libraries for controlling most
popular GPIB instruments. OCX and ActiveX controls plug directly into
TestPoint, allowing additional features from third party suppliers.

LabVIEW is a fully featured, graphical programming language used to
create virtual instrumentation. It consists of an interactive user interface,
complete with knobs, slides, switches, graphs, strip charts, and other
instrument panel controls. Its data driven environment uses function
blocks that are virtually wired together and pass data to each other. The
function blocks, which are selected from palette menus, range from
arithmetic functions to advanced acquisition, control, and analysis
routines. Also included are debugging tools, help windows, execution
highlighting, single stepping, probes, and breakpoints to trace and
monitor the data flow execution. LabVIEW can be used to create
professional applications with minimal programming.

The following accessories are available for the DAS-TC/B:

●

STC-TC/B

— a panel containing a CJC sensor and screw terminals
for all DAS-TC/B I/O connections. The STC-TC/B plugs directly into
the main I/O connector of the DAS-TC/B and extends from the rear
of the computer.

STA-TC/B

●

— contains a CJC sensor and screw terminals for all
DAS-TC/B I/O connections. Use a C-1800 cable to connect the
STA-TC/B to the DAS-TC/B.

●

C-1800

— an 18-inch ribbon cable for connecting the STA-TC/B to
the DAS-TC/B. This cable is available in longer lengths that must be
specified in the part number (for example, to specify three extra feet
use C-1803).

S-1800

●

1-4 Overview

— a shielded version of the C-1800 cable.

2

Functional Description

This section describes the operating features of the DAS-TC/B.

The DAS-TC/B consists of two sections: the isolated input section and
the control section. The isolated input section handles the measurement
functions, while the control section handles data processing. Figure 2-1 is
a block diagram of the two sections and their stages.

2-1

V/F

Converter

Opto-

Isolator

Logic

Decode

Address

Inst.

Amp.

Input

Channel

Mux

Opto-

Isolator

Mux

Gain

Opto-

Isolator

Xtal

16MHz

CPU

Control

Clock

4MHz

Register

Ref.

Input

Voltage

Opto-

Mux

Pulse

CPU

Isolator

Signal

Conditioning

+10V

Voltage

Precision

PC I/O

Control

Decode and

Reference

Logic

Control

Interrupt

RAM

Static

Dual-Port

RAM

Static

ROM

Control

Section

Section

Isolated Input

PC Bus

Figure 2-1. Block Diagram of DAS-TC/B

−15V

CH00

Input

Channels

Differential

CH15

00 to 15

CJC Input

Ref.

+9.9V

+15V

+5V

Power

Supply

DC/DC

2-2 Functional Description

Isolated Input Section

The isolated input section consists of a 16-channel input multiplexer, a
CJC sensor input, calibration inputs, a programmable gain amplifier, and
a V/F (voltage-to-frequency) converter. During operation, the DAS-TC/B
constantly monitors and uses the CJC input to maintain the accuracy of
the board. At the same time, the board switches in a precision 9.9V input
to measure gain error at a gain of 1 and to measure offset errors for all
four gain ranges. The board then stores these measurements in onboard
memory.

The four ranges of the programmable gain amplifier are selectable to
match the thermocouple input ranges and to accommodate the voltage
input range of

The V/F converter provides excellent noise rejection and high resolution,
while generating a pulsed output whose frequency is proportional to the
voltage input. The pulsed output passes first through a stage of optical
isolation and then into a stage of counting, where a count of the square
waves over a specified period determines a value for the corresponding
voltage input. The period for each count of square waves is set by the
value entered in the configuration file for Normal Mode Rejection
Frequency (50, 60, or 400 samples/s); the actual period is one-half this
selected value. The longer the count time, the higher the resolution and
better the noise rejection.

−

2.5V to 10V (using a gain of 1).

Control Section

The control section consists of the microprocessor and its memory. The
microprocessor performs all control functions and mathematical calcula­tions, precluding the need for any computer processing. Working from the
configuration file, the microprocessor sets up the board for the desired
configuration. Board parameters include interrupt level and Normal Mode
Rejection Frequency. Channel parameters include thermocouple type,
number of samples to average, and type of engineering units. During the
acquisition process, the microprocessor also handles scan order, thermo­couple linearization, and calculations for CJC.

Control Section 2-3

Onboard memory includes ROM, Static RAM, and Dual-Port Static
RAM. ROM contains the DAS-TC/B control program, which directs the
activities of the microprocessor and the thermocouple look-up tables.
Static RAM serves as the CPU “scratch pad,” providing temporary
storage for measurement results and calibration coefficients. The
dual-port RAM is the buffer for communications and data flow to/from
the computer.

Operational Flow

Configuration data for the DAS-TC/B board and channels is contained in
a configuration file. The configuration file is generated through
DriverLINX.

During DAS-TC/B initialization, the CPU downloads configuration infor­mation from the computer hard drive to the DAS-TC/B board memory.
The CPU then sets up the DAS-TC/B board and channel parameters to the
specified values. Following parameter setup, the CPU performs a calibra­tion and stores the gain and offset coefficients in board memory. Next, the
board reads and stores the CJC sensor value.

When the PC initiates a channel scan, the DAS-TC/B scans the channels
in the order specified by the PC. Channels designated for thermocouple
input use parameter values from the configuration file. Channels desig­nated for voltage input also use parameter values from the configuration
file, unless you overwrite these values.

Channel readings proceed at less than the rate specified by the value for
Normal Mode Rejection Frequency in the configuration file. The reading
for each channel requires a count of the frequency output of the V/F con­verter. The CPU compensates for calibration errors in these readings. For
channels configured as thermocouple inputs, the CPU also adjusts for
CJC and converts the readings to temperature measurements. For chan­nels configured as voltage inputs, the CPU converts the readings to volts.

2-4 Functional Description

To convert thermocouple readings to temperature measurements, the CPU
refers to look-up tables, stored in ROM. A separate look-up table is avail­able for each thermocouple type accommodated by the DAS-TC/B. The
look-up tables optimize accuracy by using more reference points along
ranges of greatest temperature-versus-voltage change than along ranges
of minimal change. (Using the same number of points at fixed intervals
would lead to error along ranges of greatest temperature-versus-voltage
change.)

As soon as all readings and conversions are complete, the DAS-TC/B
requests an interrupt and transfers all measurements to the computer.

The DAS-TC/B makes periodic measurements of the CJC and performs
self-calibration as a background task.

Operational Flow 2-5

Overview

3

Installation

This section describes the following procedures, which appear in the
order they are to be performed:

Inventorying installation resources for the board

●

●

Installing the software used to operate your DAS-TC/B board

●

Configuring the installation in software
Unpacking and inspecting the board, setting the base address of the

●

board, and then installing the board in your computer

●

Checking the installation

If you encounter any problems with the board after installation, refer to
Section 7 for troubleshooting information.

Note:

board. Otherwise, the device drivers will be more difficult to install.

Install the DriverLINX software before installing the DAS-TC/B

Inventorying Required Installation Resources

Before installing DriverLINX and the board, do the following:

1. Inventory your DAS-TC/B board’s configuration settings.

2. Determine the resources your DAS-TC/B board requires.

3. Inventory your computer’s resources already allocated to other
installed devices.

Inventorying Required Installation Resources 3-1

4. Determine whether your computer has sufficient resources for your
DAS-TC/B board.

5. Determine whether your DAS-TC/B board can use your computer’s
free resources.

6. If you have the needed resources, continue with the next section,
“Installing the Software.”

Note:

amplifies the inventory process in checklist items 1-5. (Ignore the rest of
the checklist items for now.) To display this manual from your
DriverLINX DAS-TC/B CD-ROM, open the Windows Explorer, then
double click on X:\Drvlinx4\Docs\Instconf.pdf, where X = the letter of
the CD-ROM drive. Acrobat Reader must already be installed on the other
system. If necessary, you can first install Acrobat Reader directly from the
CD-ROM by double clicking X:\Acrobat\setup.exe.

The DriverLINX Installation and Configuration Guide

Installing the Software

Installing Application Software and Drivers

Installing the TestPoint software and driver

The DriverLINX driver for TestPoint is provided as part of the TestPoint
software. The driver therefore installs automatically when you install
TestPoint.

, Section 1,

You can install TestPoint application software, made by Capital
Equipment Corporation (CEC), at any time—before or after installing
DriverLINX and the DAS-TC/B board. For TestPoint installation
instructions, consult the manual provided by CEC.

Note:

DriverLINX, check with CEC to ensure that your version of TestPoint is
compatible with DriverLINX.

3-2 Installation

Before using TestPoint with the DAS-TC/B version of

Installing the LabVIEW Software and Driver

A DriverLINX driver for LabVIEW is provided on your DriverLINX
CD-ROM. The LabVIEW driver does not install automatically when you
install DriverLINX and your board. You must first install the LabVIEW
application program, then install the DriverLINX driver. Access the
LabVIEW driver installation routine by starting setup.exe on the
DriverLINX CD-ROM, then selecting LabVIEW
Install These DriverLINX Components screen.

Consult the manual provided by National Instruments for LabVIEW
installation instructions.

Continue with the next procedure, “Installing DriverLINX Software
Components and Documentation.”

™

Support from the

Installing DriverLINX Software Components and
Documentation

This section discusses installation of DriverLINX drivers and interfaces,
and DriverLINX and board documentation.

Note:

program must be installed before installing the DriverLINX support files
for LabVIEW. Keithley recommends installing LabVIEW now—before
performing the installation sequence below—and then installing the
DriverLINX support files for LabVIEW during the same session in which
you install DriverLINX.

Even if DriverLINX versions other than the DAS-TC/B Series version are
already installed on your system, you must also install the DAS-TC/B
Series DriverLINX version. In the process, some DriverLINX capabilities
shared by all boards may be upgraded (test utilities, for example).

Installing the Software 3-3

If you plan to use LabVIEW with your board, the LabVIEW

DriverLINX Installation Options

The component installation options provided by the DriverLINX setup
program are as follows:

●

Install Drivers

need for configuring your hardware and running third-party
data-acquisition applications that require DriverLINX.

●

Install Interfaces

example programs that you will need to develop custom applications
for DriverLINX using C/C++, Visual Basic, and Delphi.

●

Install Documentation

manual and the electronic documentation for DriverLINX, all of
which you can read, search, and print using the Adobe Acrobat
Reader.

●

Install Acrobat

Acrobat Reader for the DriverLINX electronic documentation.

●

LabVIEW™ Support

includes a copy of DriverLINX for LabVIEW. This optional
component installs a complete set of Virtual Instruments to use
Keithley hardware in National Instruments LabVIEW. Before you
can install this optional component, you must first install DriverLINX
drivers and LabVIEW.

— This required component installs only the files you

— This optional component installs the files and

— This optional component installs this

— This optional component installs the Adobe

— DriverLINX for the DAS-TC/B Series

DriverLINX Installation Procedure

Install the DriverLINX software components as follows:

1. Place the DriverLINX DAS-TC/B Series CD-ROM in your drive and
wait a few seconds. On most systems, setup starts automatically. If
not, run the setup.exe file found in the root directory of the CD-ROM.

A DriverLINX Browser Introduction screen
DriverLINX CD Navigator screen appears automatically after waiting
a few seconds or after clicking

3-4 Installation

Next

.

appears. Thereafter, the

Note:

On the DriverLINX CD Navigator and other DriverLINX Browser
screens, place the cursor over a menu item to see an explanation. A star
next to a menu item means that it was selected previously.

Before continuing with this installation, Keithley suggests clicking

Me First

on the DriverLINX CD Navigator and reviewing the brief

Read

information that appears.

2. On the DriverLINX CD Navigator screen, click

Install DriverLINX

An Install These DriverLINX Components screen appears.

3. Click

Install Drivers

and follow the series of on-screen instructions.
When done, the Install These DriverLINX Components screen
reappears.

4. If you do not plan to develop custom application software for your
DAS-TC/B board, then skip to step 5. If you do plan to develop
custom application software, you must install DriverLINX interfaces
before writing the software. Install them now by clicking

Interfaces

and following the series of on-screen instructions. When

Install

done, the Install These DriverLINX Components screen reappears.

5. Click

Install Documentation

and follow the series of on-screen
instructions. This step installs the manuals. When done, the Install
These DriverLINX Components screen reappears.

6. If Acrobat Reader is not already installed on your system, install it
now. You need Acrobat Reader to read the manuals, a section of
which you must access in step 10. Click on

Install Acrobat

and
follow the series of on-screen instructions. When done, the Install
These DriverLINX Components screen reappears.

.

7. If you have already installed the LabVIEW program, then click

LabVIEWTM Support

and follow the series of on-screen
instructions. When done, the Install These DriverLINX Components
screen reappears.

8. Click

Exit.

Then, on the screen that appears saying “Thank you for

using DriverLINX,” click

Done

. The System Settings Changed dialog

box appears.

Installing the Software 3-5

9. On the System Settings Changed dialog box, click No. The system
will be rebooted and configured later under “Configuring Your
Installation” on page 3-7. The screen returns to the Windows desktop.

10. Print out one section of a DriverLINX manual that you will briefly
review later during system configuration. Proceed as follows:

a. In the

Start

menu under

On-line Manuals.

Programs → DriverLINX,

A menu document appears.

click

b. In the menu document, scroll until you find the major category

Configuration

c. Under

Configuration

.

, click

Hardware References

. A list of

documents appears.

d. In the list of documents, click

Keithley DAS-TC/B

Reader opens and the manual entitled

Your Hardware—Keithley DAS-TC/B

e. Print the following section from the

Hardware—Keithley DAS-TC/B

manual: “Configuring the

Using DriverLINX with

appears.

Using DriverLINX with Your

. Acrobat

DAS-TC/B.”

Note:

can display and print the

Keithley DAS-TC/B

If your data acquisition system is not connected to a printer, you

Using DriverLINX with Your Hardware—

manual sections from another system, directly from
the CD-ROM (without installing anything). To display the manual, open
the Windows Explorer, then double click on

X:\Drvlinx4\Docs\Notes\Kdastc.pdf

, where X = the letter of the
CD-ROM drive. Acrobat Reader must already be installed on the other
system. If necessary, you can first install Acrobat Reader directly from the
CD-ROM by double clicking

X:\Acrobat\setup.exe.

11. Continue with the next section, “Configuring Your Installation.”

3-6 Installation

Configuring Y our Installation

1. Locate and briefly review the DriverLINX manual section,

“Configuring the DAS-TC/B,” that you printed earlier during step 10
of “Installing DriverLINX Software Components and
Documentation” on page 3-3. Reviewing this section will help
prepare you to input information and select options when configuring
your installation.

Note:

installations for Windows NT and Windows 95/98.

2. Reboot your computer. The DriverLINX Plug and Play Wizard

Note:

will not reappear during the current computer session, although it may
appear after a subsequent reboot. If you wish to configure your board
sometime later, you can start the Plug and Play Wizard manually from a
batch file. In the Windows Explorer, double click

X:\Drvlinx4\Help\Kdastc.bat

which DriverLINX is installed.

3. On the Plug and Play Wizard, click

Note:

Diagnostics to find the free resources that the Plug and Play Wizard asks
you to assign. However, if your board requires an interrupt, to reliably
find a free ISA interrupt you may need to 1) configure your computer as
having a non-Plug and Play operating system, using BIOS setup, and then

2) individually assign the interrupt to the ISA bus.

Be sure to note and follow all configuration differences between

appears on your screen automatically at the end of the boot cycle.

If you do not run the DriverLINX Plug and Play Wizard now, it

, where X is the letter of the drive on

Wizard

on-screen instructions that appear. The wizard will first lead you
through the steps of installing your hardware—from a software
viewpoint—and configuring it.

If your operating system is Windows NT, use Windows NT

and follow the series of

4. Continue with the next section, “Preparing and Installing Your

Board.”

Configuring Your Installation 3-7

Preparing and Installing Your Board

This section describes the following:

●

Safely unwrapping and then inspecting your board before installing it

●

Setting the base-address DIP switch of the board
Physically installing the board in your computer

●

Caution:

Ensure that the computer is turned off before installing or
removing a board. Installing or removing a board while power is on can
damage your computer, the board, or both.

Handle the board in a static-controlled workstation; wear a grounded
wrist strap. Discharge static voltage differences between the wrapped
board and the handling environment before removing the board from its
protective wrapper. Failure to discharge static electricity before and
during handling may damage semiconductor circuits on the board.

Handle the board using the mounting bracket. Do not touch the circuit
traces or connector contacts when handling the board.

Unwrapping and Inspecting Your Board

Unwrap and inspect your board as follows:

1. The factory packages your board in an anti-static wrapper that must

not be removed until you have discharged any static electricity from
yourself by either of the following methods:

– If you are equipped with a grounded wrist strap, discharge static

electricity by holding the wrapped board.

– If you are not equipped with a grounded wrist strap, you can

discharge static electricity by holding the wrapped board in one
hand while placing your other hand firmly on a metal portion of
the computer chassis (your computer must be turned off, but
grounded). This approach is less secure than using a grounded
wrist strap.

3-8 Installation

2. Carefully unwrap your board from its anti-static wrapping material.

(You can store the wrapping material for future use.)

3. Inspect the board for signs of damage. If damage is apparent, arrange

to return the board to the factory (see “Technical Support”).

4. Check the remaining contents of your package against the packing

list, and immediately report any missing items.

5. When you are satisfied with the inspection, continue with the next

procedure, “Setting the Base Address.”

Note:

Your DAS-TC/B is factory calibrated and requires no further
adjustment prior to installation. If at a later time you decide to recalibrate
the board, refer to Section 6 for instructions.

Setting the Base Address

Note:

requirements for Windows 95/98 and Windows NT. Refer to “Configuring
the DAS-TC/B” in

Series

DriverLINX Software Components and Documentation.”)

The only manually configurable component on the DAS-TC/B is the DIP
switch for setting the board’s base address. Figure 3-1 shows the
7-position DIP switch with factory settings. (Note that the switches set the
values shown only when in the off positions).

Before setting the base address switch, check the different

Using DriverLINX with Your Hardware—K eithle y PIO

manual. (You printed this information in step 10 of “Installing

Preparing and Installing Your Board 3-9

Address Line Values

O

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

N

Decimal
A9
A8
A7
A6
A5
A4
A3

512
256
128

64
32
16

8

Switches are shown set for

a value of

512 + 256 = 768 Decimal

200h + 100h = 300h, as

shown

Hex

200
100

80
40
20
10

8

or

Figure 3-1. Base Address Switch

The DAS-TC/B requires a block of four non-overlapping addresses
between 100h and 3FFh in the computer I/O address space. If the
factory-preset base address,1 300h, was also assigned to the board when
you ran the DriverLINX Plug and Play Wizard, you do not need to reset
the address switch. Otherwise, reset the base address switch to conform to
the base address assigned when you ran the Wizard.

When you finish setting the base address switch, continue with the next
procedure, “Installing the Board.”

Installing the Board

Caution:

damage your board or your computer.

To install a DAS-TC/B board in your computer, perform the following
steps:

1. Turn off power to the computer and all attached equipment.

2. Remove the computer chassis cover.

3. Select an available accessory slot and remove the slot door cover at

3-10 Installation

Inserting or removing a board with the computer on can

the rear of the computer.

4. Make sure the base address switch is properly set (refer to “Setting
the Base Address” on page 3-9).

5. Insert and secure the board.

6. Replace the computer cover.

7. Continue with the next section, “Checking Your Installation.”

Checking Y our Installation

The ability to start the DriverLINX DAS-TC/B Data Logger utility, which
is available only after you install DriverLINX, verifies that DriverLINX
and the board are installed and configured satisfactorily. Do the
following:

1. Click the Windows 95/98/NT

Start

2. In the

3. Find the

DAS-TC/B Data Logger

4. Click on the
Data Logger screen should appear if the installation is satisfactory.

Refer also to the

Using DriverLINX with Your Hardware—Keithley DAS-TC/B

After you configure and check your installation, you can attach
accessories as needed and wire the appropriate signals to the board. Refer
to Section 4, “Cabling and Wiring,” for instructions.

menu, click

DriverLINX

DAS-TC/B Data Logger

DriverLINX Installation and Configuration Guide

→ Test Panels

Start

Programs

entry.

tab.
.

folder, you should find the

entry. The initial DAS-TC/B

and

manuals.

Checking Your Installation 3-11

Cabling and Wiring

This section discusses the following to help you correctly wire your
thermocouples and other signal sources to the DAS-TC/B:

The screw terminal accessories that are needed to interface your

●

circuits to the DAS-TC/B inputs

●

The nature of the DAS-TC/B inputs and how this influences wiring
The appropriate wiring connections for floating and grounded signals

●

Using Screw Terminal Accessories

Signal connections to the DAS-TC/B main I/O connector require using
either an STC-TC/B or an STA-TC/B screw terminal accessory. This
section describes the features of these accessories and attachment of these
accessories to the board.

4

Using Screw Terminal Accessories 4-1

Features of Screw Terminal Accessories

Both the STC-TC/B and STA-TC/B screw terminal accessories provide
screw terminals that mate with the pins on the main I/O connector of the
DAS-TC/B. (Appendix B lists the pin assignments for the DAS-TC/B
main I/O connector.) They both support all sixteen differential channels of
the DAS-TC/B.

The STC-TC/B mounts on the main I/O connector. The STA-TC/B mates
with the main I/O connector via a cable. Figure 4-1and Figure 4-2 show
the layouts of the STC-TC/B and STA-TC/B.

1 8765432
O

N

1 8765432
O

N

Figure 4-1. STC-TC/B Layout

4-2 Cabling and Wiring

RN1

1 8765432

O
N

RN2

1 8765432

O
N

+15 +14 +13 +12 +11 +10 +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 +0

S1

S2

J1

−15 −14 −13 −12 −11 −10 −9 −8 −7 −6 −5 −4 −3 −2 −1 −0

B GND

Chassis

GND

Figure 4-2. STA-TC/B Layout

Both the STC-TC/B and STA-TC/B screw terminal accessories include a
CJC temperature sensor and provide an optional switch-selectable
open-thermocouple detection signal for each channel. These provisions
are described in the next two subsections.

Using Screw Terminal Accessories 4-3

Cold Junction Compensation (CJC) Temperature Sensor

Both the STC-TC/B and STA-TC/B screw terminal accessories include a
CJC temperature sensor. The CJC sensor and the screw-terminal blocks
of the STC-TC/B are both mounted on an isothermal bar; a metal plate
that keeps the screw terminals and the CJC sensor at the same tempera­ture. Figure 4-3 shows the schematic for the CJC temperature sensor.

+11 to +15V

(to pin 19)

CJC Sensor

AD592CN

CJC Sensor In

(to pin 20)

20kΩ

0.01%
Ground

(to pin 16)

Figure 4-3. Schematic for CJC Temperature Sensor Circuit

The CJC sensor consists of an Analog Devices AD592CN integrated
circuit in series with a 20k
sensor, measured across the 20k
changes at the rate of 20mV/

Ω

, ±0.01% resistor. The output of the CJC

Ω

resistor, is 5.964V at 25°C. This output

°

C. The CJC sensor requires no calibration.

The CJC is needed for accurate thermocouple temperature measurements.
A temperature-dependent voltage, called the reference junction voltage
(or cold junction voltage), is always generated between a thermocouple
and the terminals to which the thermocouple is connected. Therefore,
when you connect a thermocouple to a DAS-TC/B board via an
STC-TC/B or STA-TC/B screw terminal accessory, a reference-junction
voltage is generated between the thermocouple leads and the screw
terminals. The reference junction voltage is defined as follows:

(Voltage generated by your
Reference
junction
voltage

4-4 Cabling and Wiring

thermocouple at reference-

=

junction temperature—the

temperature of the screw

terminals)

(Voltage generated by your

-

thermocouple at 0°C, which
is defined to be 0V)

This reference-junction voltage must be added to the thermocouple
reading to obtain an accurate temperature value.

An appropriate cold junction compensation algorithm follows:

1. Read the CJC circuit output voltage at pins 16 and 20 of the main I/O

connector of the DAS-TC/B.

2. Perform the following data manipulations in the host computer:

a. Convert the CJC circuit voltage to the reference-junction

temperature.

b. Convert the reference-junction temperature to a

reference-junction voltage, using the appropriate equation or

lookup table for your thermocouple type.
c. Add the reference-junction voltage to the thermocouple reading.
d. Convert the corrected thermocouple reading to a temperature

value, using the appropriate equation or lookup table for your

thermocouple type.

Open-Thermocouple Detection Signals

The consequences of an open thermocouple circuit can be serious. For
example, when using a thermocouple for automatic control of an elevated
temperature, an open circuit in the thermocouple typically causes the
measured temperature to appear constantly below the control set point.
Consequently, the control algorithm could apply excessive, potentially
damaging heat in a futile attempt to restore the measured temperature to
the control set point.

However, some temperature control software includes a feature that
interprets a positive out-of-range input as an open-thermocouple event,
then takes protective action. Therefore, on both the STC-TC/B and
STA-TC/B accessories, open-thermocouple detection signals are available
to drive high-impedance (100M
range during open-thermocouple events. These signals are small enough
not to interfere with normal thermocouple temperature measurements. For
example, the open-thermocouple detection signal to each channel on an
STA-TC/B is roughly 10nA, causing only a tiny voltage drop across the
thermocouple circuit—roughly 1

Using Screw Terminal Accessories 4-5

Ω

minimum) DAS-TC/B inputs out of

µ

V across 100Ω.

Use the two 8-position DIP switches on the STC-TC/B or STA-TC/B to
connect/disconnect the open-thermocouple-detection signals on a
channel-by-channel basis. Connect an open-thermocouple detection
signal to a channel by sliding the DIP switch for that channel to ON.
Board labeling for the switches is CH0 (for Channel 0) and CH15 (for
Channel 15).

Note:

other than thermocouple signals), you may want to disconnect the
open-thermocouple detection signals to get more accurate readings.

Ground T erminals

Two types of ground terminals are included on the STC-TC/B and
STA-TC/B accessories, B GND and CHASSIS GND.

●

●

On channels connected to high source impedances (for signals

Use the B GND terminals to externally connect the grounds of
grounded signal sources to the analog ground of the DAS-TC/B input
amplifier. The B GND terminals lead to the analog ground. Refer to
“Connecting Signals” on page 4-7 for more information about the
analog ground.

Use the CHASSIS GND terminals to connect signal-wire shields. The
CHASSIS GND terminals connect to the mounting screws of the
37-pin connector, and to a protective ground plane on the bottom of
the accessory. Therefore, when an STC-TC/B is mounted on an
installed DAS-TC/B, the CHASSIS GND terminals are directly
connected to the chassis ground of the host computer. Likewise, when
an STA-TC/B is attached to a DAS-TC/B via an S-1800 shielded
cable, the CHASSIS GND terminals are connected to the chassis
ground of the host computer via the shield of the cable.

Note:

You must use an S-1800 cable to connect the CHASSIS GND
terminals of an STA-TC/B to the chassis ground of the host computer. If
you use a C-1800 cable, the CHASSIS GND terminals will be
ungrounded.

4-6 Cabling and Wiring

Connecting an STC-TC/B

Figure 4-4 shows how to attach an STC-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B.

DAS-TC/B

Figure 4-4. Attaching an STC-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B

Connecting an STA-TC/B

Figure 4-5 shows how to attach an STA-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B.

DAS-TC/B

C-1800 or S-1800

cable

Screw

terminals for

thermocouples

are beneath

this cover

STC-TC/B

STA-TC/B

Screw

terminals for

thermocouples

are beneath

this cover

Figure 4-5. Attaching an STA-TC/B to a DAS-TC/B

Connecting Signals

Warning

Connecting Signals 4-7

A short between DAS-TC/B signal inputs and AC creates a safety hazard.
To avoid these shorts, secure all input connections to prevent signal wires
from coming loose and shorting to high voltages.

Note:

To attach your signals to the DAS-TC/B, use either an STC-TC/B
or an STA-TC/B accessory. Refer to the section “Using Screw Terminal
Accessories” on page 4-1.

Understanding the DAS-TC/B Inputs

The input configuration of the DAS-TC/B is shown schematically in
Figure 4-6.

Channel 0 High (+0)
Channel 0 Low (-0)

10kΩ

Channel 1 High (+1)
Channel 1 Low (-1)

10kΩ

High

Input Amplifier

Low

-15V

+15V

Analog

Ground

(B Ground)

To V/F
Converter
and Isolated
Digital
Connections

DC-to-DC

Converter

Multiplexer

Channel 15 High (+15)
Channel 15 Low (-15)

10kΩ

Analog Ground
(B Ground)

(Isolation)

AC In

Figure 4-6. DAS-TC/B Inputs

4-8 Cabling and Wiring

Each DAS-TC/B board provides sixteen differential inputs. These inputs
are designed especially for thermocouple signals, but are also suitable for
general-purpose analog signals. Signals from all sixteen inputs are
amplified by one input amplifier, an instrumentation amplifier, and are
digitized by one voltage-to-frequency (V/F) converter. The multiplexer
allows a time-sharing arrangement, in which inputs are scanned and
connected intermittently to the input amplifier and V/F converter. The
multiplexer is effectively a solid-state 16-pole, double-throw switch.

The entire input section of the DAS-TC/B is isolated to reject most
unwanted signals from your measurements. Refer to “Isolated Input
Section” on page 2-3 and see Figure 2-1. Additionally, the differential
High and Low input terminals of the input amplifier reject all but a tiny
fraction of the common mode voltage—the voltage that they “see” in
common relative to the analog ground (B GND). The High and Low input
terminals respond almost exclusively to the voltage difference between
them. This limits response to noise, power supply voltages, and other
unwanted signals that are common to the terminals within the common
mode rejection ratio (CMMR) of the amplifier.

Note:

The CMRR, when expressed in decibels, may be defined as shown

below:

Common mode voltage

CMRR = 20 log

10

Common mode error, the part of
common mode voltage not rejected

However, the common mode voltage must be within specified limits. If no
resistance path is defined between the Low input terminal and the analog
ground (B GND), amplifier bias currents attempt to flow to the analog
ground across a high insulation resistance, driving the common-mode
voltage close to the positive supply voltage of the amplifier. The amplifier
saturates and data measurements are unusable.

Connecting Signals 4-9

Note:

Bias currents are very small but finite currents drawn from the
input terminals of an amplifier. The magnitude of a bias current can range
from a few femtoamperes to a few microamperes, depending on amplifier
design.

Therefore, a resistance path must be defined for the bias currents via a
common mode connection. It must be defined either externally by the user
or internally on the data acquisition board, as follows:

●

Your DAS-TC/B board provides 10kΩ resistance paths internally.
The 10k

Ω

resistors are appropriate when the source resistance of the
signal is low—as with thermocouples—and the signal is isolated.
These resistors are connected between the analog signal ground
(B GND) and each of the sixteen Low inputs. See Figure 4-6.

However, when the signal source is grounded, the internal 10kΩ

●

resistor should be overridden by an external low-resistance path from
the source ground to the analog signal ground (B GND). Refer to the
following sections “Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple” on page
4-12 and “Connecting a Grounded Signal Source” on page 4-14.

Connecting an Ungrounded Thermocouple

In many applications, either the junction of a thermocouple is electrically
isolated from the object being monitored for temperature or the object
being monitored is isolated from ground. If any of your thermocouples are
completely isolated, connect them as shown in Figure 4-7.

4-10 Cabling and Wiring

Thermocouple

Optional Shield

Channel n High

Channel n Low

E

s

NC

STA-TC/B

or

STP-TC/B

Input

Amplifier

B GND

Chassis

GND

(To chassis via S-1800

cable for STA-TC/B)

Figure 4-7. Connecting an Ungrounded Thermocouple

As discussed in “Understanding the DAS-TC/B Inputs” on page 4-8, no
external connection to the B GND terminal is required; the common mode
connection is provided by an internal 10k

Note:

If the junction of a thermocouple is connected in some way to the

Ω

resistor.

output of an isolated power supply, it is sometimes better to connect the
object being monitored to the analog ground (B GND). The capacitance
to ground in even a highly isolated power supply can be hundreds of
picofarads, providing a substantial path for high frequency noise.
Connecting the object being monitored to the analog ground (B GND)
helps this noise to be rejected as a common mode signal, instead of
flowing through the thermocouple and being accepted as part of the
measured signal. Refer also to the next section, “Connecting a Grounded
Thermocouple.” Trial and error is sometimes required to achieve the best
connection for your application.

Connecting Signals 4-11

Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple

A thermocouple junction is sometimes joined to an object that is directly
or indirectly grounded, usually to optimize heat transfer and response
time. In such cases, connect the ground of the object being monitored
directly to the analog ground (B GND), as shown in Figure 4-8.

Optional Shield

Thermocouple

Grounded

Object

Channel n High

Channel n Low

STA-TC/B

or

STP-TC/B

E

s

Input

Amplifier

-Vg1V

i

V

g2

g2

R wire

V

g1

V =

cm

B GND

Chassis

GND

(To chassis via S-1800

cable for STA-TC/B)

Figure 4-8. Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple

This external low-resistance common-mode connection essentially
overrides the internal 10k

Note:

Connect the analog ground (B GND) to the ground of the

resistor of the DAS-TC/B.

Ω

grounded object. Do not connect analog ground (B GND) to the Low
input connection at the board. Connecting the analog ground (B GND) to
the Low input at the board—or allowing the internal 10k

Ω

resistor to
make such a connection by default—causes any noise current between the
grounded object and the analog ground to flow across the Low signal
lead, resulting in a noise voltage across the lead. The input amplifier
accepts this noise voltage as part of the Low input signal, instead of
rejecting the noise voltage as a common-mode signal.

4-12 Cabling and Wiring

Note:

Although input isolation minimizes the flow of noise current, it
cannot eliminate it entirely. Even isolated devices couple to ground
through finite capacitance. Consider coupling of a 5 volt, 8MHz ISA-bus
signal to the analog ground of the DAS-TC/B through a capacitance of
only 1pF. This coupling can cause roughly a 200
in the connection between the analog ground and the ground of the object
to which the thermocouple is connected. If this current flows through the
negative lead of your thermocouple, instead of through a separate wire as
in Figure 4-8, a noise-voltage is generated in the lead. If you are using a
24 AWG Type K (Chromel-Alumel) thermocouple with 10-foot leads, a
200

µ

A noise current generates roughly a 1mV noise voltage across the
Alumel lead (resistance = ~ 0.44
the input circuit, or that otherwise ends up as unwanted pulses at the
output of the voltage-to-frequency converter, results in a temperature
error.

Connecting Other Signal Sources

The connection principles are similar for signals other than thermocouple
signals, as discussed below.

µ

A noise current to flow

Ω

/ft). Any of this noise that is rectified in

Connecting a Floating Signal Source

If any of your signal sources are completely isolated, connect them as
shown in Figure 4-9.

STA-TC/B

or

s

NC

STP-TC/B

B GND

Chassis

GND

Input

Amplifier

(Chassis GND via

S-1800 cable for

STA-TC/B)

Optional Shield

Channel n High

Channel n Low

E

Signal
Source

+

E

s

-

Figure 4-9. Connecting a Floating Signal Source, Method 1

Connecting Signals 4-13

Signal
Source

As discussed in “Understanding the DAS-TC/B Inputs” on page 4-8, the
common mode connection is provided by the internal 10k

Ω

resistor.

Alternatively, a floating signal source can be connected as in Figure 4-10.

STA-TC/B

or

s

STP-TC/B

Input

Amplifier

Optional Shield

+

E

s

Channel n High

Channel n Low

E

-

Jumper

Figure 4-10. Connecting a Floating Signal Source, Method 2

However, this approach is usually less desirable. Jumpering the analog
ground (B GND) to the Low input effectively changes the differential
input into a single-ended input. If noise picked up electrostatically by the
positive and negative leads is similar—and therefore much of the noise is
essentially a common mode component, this unbalanced configuration
inhibits the ability of the input amplifier to reject the noise.

Connecting a Grounded Signal Source

If any of your signal sources are coupled to ground, connect them as
shown in Figure 4-11.

B GND

Chassis

GND

(To chassis via

S-1800 cable

for STA-TC/B)

4-14 Cabling and Wiring

Signal
Source

Signal Source
Ground

STA-TC/B

or

s

STP-TC/B

Input

Amplifier

B GND

Chassis

GND

(To chassis via S-1800

cable for STA-TC/B)

Do not join Low

to GND at the

board

Optional Shield

V =

cm

R

V

cm

WIRE

Channel n High

Channel n Low

-V

V

g1

g2

E

V

g2

+

E

s

-

V

g1

Figure 4-11. Connecting a Grounded Signal Source

A common mode connection should be made directly between the ground
of the signal source and the analog ground (B GND). This low-resistance
external connection essentially overrides the internal 10k

Ω

resistor of the

DAS-TC/B.

Note:

Connect the analog ground (B GND) to the ground of the
grounded object. Do not connect the analog ground (B GND) to the Low
input connection at the board. Connecting the analog ground (B GND) to
the Low input at the board—or allowing the internal 10k

Ω

resistor to
make such a connection by default—causes any noise current between the
grounded object and the analog ground to flow across the Low signal
lead, resulting in a noise voltage across the lead. The input amplifier then
accepts this noise voltage as part of the Low input signal, instead of
rejecting the noise voltage as a common-mode signal.

Refer also to the note in “Connecting a Grounded Thermocouple” on page
4-12.

Connecting Signals 4-15

The DAS-TC/B Data Logger

The DAS-TC/B Data Logger is a DriverLINX utility for viewing and
recording measurements from the DAS-TC/B board. It is installed
automatically when you install DriverLINX.

Use it initially to check out the combined DAS-TC/B and DriverLINX
installations (refer to “Checking Your Installation” on page 3-11.) Then
use it to acquire data for plotting or analysis by another package, such as
Microsoft Excel.

Features of the DAS-TC/B Data Logger

You can do the following with the DAS-TC/B Data Logger:

Configure the DAS-TC/B input channels. Specify the signal

●

characteristics, measurement settings, and sampling order for each
channel to be sampled.

5

Specify the interval at which samples are logged.

●

●

Start a data logging session.

●

Preview the current sample values.
Manually stop a data logging session.

●

●

Import and use an acquired data log in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft
Word.

For detailed information about Data Logger features, refer to the Help
screens that are available after starting the program.

Features of the DAS-TC/B Data Logger 5-1

If you want to view and/or print the Help screens independently of your
DriverLINX installation, you can view them directly from the CD-ROM
that came with your DAS-T/C board, as follows:

1. From Windows Explorer, double click on

X:\DrvLINX4\Help\Kdastc.hlp

which DriverLINX is installed.The following window appears:
Help Topics: Keithley DAS-TC/B DriverLINX Data Logger Utility.

, where X is the letter of the drive on

2. From the menu, select

DAS-TC/B Data Logger

Starting the DAS-TC/B Data Logger

To start the Data Logger, do the following:

1. Click the Windows 95/98/NT

Start

2. In the

3. Find the

Data Logger

4. Click on the

Data Logger screen should appear.

menu, click

DriverLINX

entry.

DAS-TC/B Data Logger

→ Test Panels

Start

Programs.

Using the DAS-TC/B Data Logger

For detailed information about using the Data Logger, refer to the Help
screens that are available after starting the program.

.

button.

entry, then the

entry. The initial DAS-TC/B

DAS-TC/B

5-2 The DAS-TC/B Data Logger

6

Calibration

DAS-TC/B calibration requires setting the voltage across two of the
board’s test points, which are shown in Figure 6-1. The process requires a
5

½

digit DVM (Digital Voltmeter) or a DMM (Digital Multimeter), such

as a Keithley Instruments 196 DMM.

Test

Test

Point 5

Perform the DAS-TC/B calibration process as follows:

1. Referring to the diagram, connect the positive (+) lead of the meter to

Point 2

Test

Point 6

Figure 6-1. Test Points

TP3 (Test Point 3), the 9.9V reference.

Potentiometer

DAS-TC/B

R97

Test

Point 3

2. Connect the negative (

3. Adjust Potentiometer R97 for a meter reading of 9.9000 ±0.0001V.

) lead of the meter to TP2, the BGND point.

−

6-1

Problem Isolation

7

Troubleshooting

If your DAS-TC/B is not operating properly, use the information in this
section to isolate the problem. If the problem appears serious enough to
warrant technical support, refer to “Technical Support” on page 7-5 for
information on how to contact an applications engineer.

Table 7-1 lists general symptoms and corresponding solutions for
problems that might occur with a DAS-TC/B.

Table 7-1. Troubleshooting Information

Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution

Intermittent operation

System lockup A timing error occurred. Press [Ctrl] + [Break] .

The most common cause of this
problem is that the I/O bus speed
is in excess of 8MHz.

Vibrations or loose connections
exist.

The board is overheating. Check environmental and

Reduce I/O bus speed to a
maximum of 8MHz (to change
the I/O bus speed, run BIOS
setup). See your computer
documentation for instructions on
running BIOS setup.

Cushion source of vibration and
tighten connections.

ambient temperature. See the
documentation for your computer.

Problem Isolation 7-1

Table 7-1. Troubleshooting Information (cont.)

Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution

Board does not respond DriverLINX is not installed

correctly or the combined
DriverLINX/board installation is
not properly configured.

Base address is incorrect or not
consistent with what the program
is addressing.

The interrupt level is incorrect or
not consistent with what the
program is addressing.

The board configuration is
incorrect.

Reinstall and/or reconfigure
DriverLINX if necessary. Refer to
“Installing DriverLINX Software
Components and Documentation”
on page 3-3 and to “Configuring
the PIO Series” in the manual

Using DriverLINX With Your
Hardware—Keithley DAS-TC/B.

Check the setting of the
base-address switch on the board
against the setting shown in the
configuration file. If the base
address is set correctly, make sure
no other computer device is using
any of the I/O locations beginning
at the specified base address. If
necessary, reconfigure the base
address.

Make sure no other device is
using the interrupt level specified
in your program. If necessary,
reset the interrupt level.

Check the remaining settings in
the configuration file.

The board is incorrectly aligned
in the accessory slot.

The board is damaged. Contact Keithley for technical

7-2 Troubleshooting

Check the board seating.

support; see page 7-5.

Table 7-1. Troubleshooting Information (cont.)

Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution

Data appears to be invalid The most common cause of this

problem is that the I/O bus speed
is in excess of 12MHz.

An open connection exists. Check wiring to screw terminal.

Another system resource is using
the specified base address.

If your board is not operating properly after using the information in
Table 7-1, continue with the next two subsections to further isolate
the problem.

Testing the Board and Host Computer

To isolate the problem to the DAS-TC/B board or to the host computer,
use the following steps:

Reduce I/O bus speed to a
maximum of 12MHz (to change
the I/O bus speed, run BIOS
setup). See the documentation for
your computer for instructions on
running BIOS setup.

Reconfigure the base address of
the DAS-TC/B board. Check the
I/O address assignments of other
system resources and reconfigure,
if necessary.

Caution:

Removing a board with the power on can cause damage to your

board and/or computer.

1. Turn power to the host computer off and remove power connections

to the computer.

2. While keeping connections to accessory board intact, unplug the

accessory connector or cable from the DAS-TC/B board.

3. Remove the DAS-TC/B board from the computer and visually check

for damage. If a board is obviously damaged, refer to “Technical
Support” on page 7-5 for information on returning the board.

Problem Isolation 7-3

4. With the DAS-TC/B board out of the computer, check the computer

for proper operation. Power up the computer and perform any
necessary diagnostics.

At this point, if you have another DAS-TC/B board that you know is
functional, you can test the slot and I/O connections using the instructions
in the next section. If you do not have another board, refer to the
instructions on page 7-1 before calling Keithley for technical support.

Testing the Accessory Slot and I/O Connections

When you are sure that the computer is operating properly, test the
computer accessory slot and I/O connections using another DAS-TC/B
board that you know is functional. To test the computer accessory slot and
the I/O connections, follow these steps:

1. Remove computer power again and install a DAS-TC/B board that

you know is functional. Do not make any I/O connections.

2. Turn computer power on and check operation with the functional

board in place. This test checks the computer accessory slot. If you
were using more than one DAS-TC/B board when the problem
occurred, use the functional board to also test the other slot.

3. If the accessory slots are functional, use the functional board to check

the I/O connections. Reconnect and check the operation of the I/O
connections one at a time.

4. If operation fails for an I/O connection, check the individual inputs

one at a time for shorts and opens.

5. If operation remains normal to this point, the problem is in the

DAS-TC/B board originally in the computer. If you were using more
than one board, try each board one at a time in the computer to
determine which is faulty.

6. If you cannot isolate the problem, refer to the next section for

instructions on obtaining assistance.

7-4 Troubleshooting

Technical Support

Before returning any equipment for repair, telephone for Keithley
technical support at:

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time

An applications engineer will help you diagnose and resolve your board
problem over the telephone. To save time, please make sure you have the
following information available before you call:

1-888-KEITHLEY

DAS-TC/B Board
Configuration

Computer

Operating System

Software package

Compiler
(if applicable)

Accessories

Model
Serial #
Revision code
Base address setting
Interrupt level setting
Number of channels

Manufacturer
CPU type
Clock speed (MHz)
MB of RAM
Video system
BIOS type

Windows version ____________________

Name
Serial #
Version
Invoice/Order #

Language
Manufacturer
Version

Type
Type
Type
Type
Type
Type
Type
Type

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________

____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________

____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________

____________________
____________________
____________________

____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________
____________________

Technical Support 7-5

If a telephone resolution is not possible, a customer service representative
will issue you a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and ask
you to return the equipment. Please reference the RMA number in any
documentation regarding the equipment and on the outside of the
shipping container.

When returning equipment for repair, please include the following
information:

Your name, address, and telephone number.

●

The invoice or order number and date of equipment purchase.

●

●

A description of the problem or its symptoms.

The RMA number on the outside of the package.

●

ATTN: RMA #_______

Repair Department

28775 Aurora Road

Cleveland, Ohio 44139

Telephone 1-888-KEITHLEY

FAX [phone]

Notes:

If you are submitting your equipment for repair under warranty,

you must include the invoice number and date of purchase.

To enable Keithley to respond as quickly as possible, you must include
the RMA number on the outside of the package.

7-6 Troubleshooting

Specifications

DAS-TC/B specifications are listed in the following tables:

Table A-1. Analog Input Specifications

Feature Value

Inputs 16 differential inputs plus a CJC

Thermocouple types B, E, J, K, R, S, and T

Voltage gains 1, 125, 166.7, and 400

Overvoltage protection ±30V maximum for powered

±20V maximum for unpowered

Isolation to PC 500VDC minimum

A

Input impedance 100MΩ minimum

CJC error ±0.8˚C maximum (at 25˚C)

±1.2˚C maximum (at 0 to 70˚C)

Common mode rejection ratio

Voltage range of gain = 1

All other ranges

Normal mode rejection ration 55dB typical (at 50/60Hz)

Open thermocouple reading

Integer data format

Real (floating point) data format

72dB minimum (DC to 60Hz)
100dB minimum (DC to 60Hz)

+1,176,256,512 (˚C or ˚F)
+10,000.00 (˚C or ˚F)

A-1

1 −

−

−

Table A-2. Conversion Rate Specifications

1

Rejection Rate

Conversion Speed (ms/chan)

Temperature Volts

50 47 43

60 40 36

400 10 6

1

The speed values are for integer-output format. For floating-point format, add

1ms to each value.

2

The rates shown are for updates of a single channel to the on-board data buffer.

Using the DriverLINX driver, the maximum interupt rate to transfer this data is

2.1Hz (i.e., 475mS intervals), which limits the effective data rate to application
programs.

Table A-3. Temperature/Voltage Specifications

Feature Value

Degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit

Temperature/voltage data format

Integer:

32-bit signed

Real:

32-bit IEEE-754 standard (floating point)

Accuracy and resolution

All ranges guaranteed monotonic

(at 25˚C)

Table A-4. Voltage Input Specifications

Accuracy

Gain Range

(Worst case)

2.5V to 10V ±0.01% reading ±0.75mV 312.5µV 375µV 2.5mV

125

166.7

400

20mV to 80mV ±0.02% reading ±8µV 2.5µV 3.0µV 20µV

15mV to 60mV

−

6.25mV to 25mV ±0.02% reading ±3µV 0.781µV 0.938µV 6.25µV

±0.02% reading ±8µV 1.88µV 2.25µV 15.0µV

A-2 Specifications

Voltage Resolution at

50Hz 60Hz 400Hz

−

−

−

−

−

−

1

Table A-5. Thermocouple Input Specifications

Type Range

B 400 to 799˚C

800 to 1700˚C

E

J

K

R 0 to 299˚C

S 0 to 299˚C

T

200 to − 50˚C
49 to 1000˚C

200 to − 1˚C

0 to 750˚C

200 to − 1˚C
0 to 900˚C
901 to 1250˚C

300 to 1768˚C

300 to 1450˚C

200 to − 120˚C

119 to 400˚C

Accuracy
(Worst case)

±3.0˚C
±1.7˚C

±1.1˚C
±0.6˚C

±1.0˚C
±0.5˚C

±1.4˚C
±0.7˚C
±0.9˚C

±2.3˚C
±1.5˚C

±2.3˚C
±1.7˚C

±0.9˚C
±0.5˚C

Temperature Resolution at

50Hz 60Hz 400Hz

0.2˚C

0.1˚C

0.1˚C

0.05˚C

0.1˚C

0.04˚C

0.1˚C

0.05˚C

0.06˚C

0.1˚C

0.08˚C

0.1˚C

0.09˚C

0.05˚C

0.03˚C

0.2˚C

0.1˚C

0.1˚C

0.05˚C

0.1˚C

0.05˚C

0.2˚C

0.06˚C

0.07˚C

0.2˚C

0.1˚C

0.2˚C

0.1˚C

0.06˚C

0.04˚C

01.5˚C

0.8˚C

0.8˚C

0.4˚C

0.7˚C

0.3˚C

1.0˚C

0.4˚C

0.5˚C

1.0˚C

0.6˚C

0.1˚C

0.7˚C

0.4˚C

0.2˚C

Table A-6. Noise Specifications

Feature

Voltage Inputs

@ gain = 1

@ gain = 125

@ gain = 166.7

@ gain = 400

Thermocouple Inputs

Types B, R, S, or T

Type E

Types J or K

1

The offset error at all gains is canceled through periodic self-calibration that the

DAS-TC/B microprocessor performs as a background task

Factor

0.75 × resolution rms

1.0 × resolution rms

1.5 × resolution rms

4.0 × resolution rms

4.0 × resolution rms

1.0 × resolution rms

1.5 × resolution rms

.

A-3

−

−

Table A-7. Maximum Gain Error Temperature Coefficients

Feature Temperature Coefficient

Voltage Inputs

@ gain = 1

@ gain = 125

@ gain = 166.7

@ gain = 400

Thermocouple Inputs

Types B, R, S, or T

Type E

Types J or K

±7ppm/˚C
±10ppm/˚C
±12ppm/˚C
±17ppm/˚C

±17ppm/˚C
±10ppm/˚C
±12ppm/˚C

Table A-8. Environmental and Physical Requirements

Feature Specification

Temperature Ranges

Operating

Storage

0 to 50˚C

20 to 70˚C

Humidity 0 to 95% noncondensing

Dimensions 13.3 × 4.25 × 0.75 inches

(33.8 × 10.8 × 1.9 cm)

Table A-9. Power Requirements

Feature Specification

+5V Supply

+12V Supply 35mA typical, 50mA maximum

12V Supply

550mA typical, 700mA maximum

Not used

A-4 Specifications

Table A-10. Board Requirements

Feature Specification

PC I/O base address interface 100h to 3FFh DIP-switch-selectable

Interrupt levels • DAS-TC version A: 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7

• DAS-TC/B: 3, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, and 15

A-5

B

Connector Pin Assignments

The following diagram shows the pin assignments of the D AS-TC/B main
I/O connector and the I/O connectors of the STA-TC/B and STC-TC/B.

+15V Isolated Voltage Source - 19

Channel 15 Low Input - 18
Channel 14 Low Input - 17

CJC Return - 16

Channel 12 Low Input - 15

Channel 12 High Input - 14

Channel 10 Low Input - 13

Channel 10 High Input - 12

Channel 8 Low Input - 11

Channel 8 High Input - 10

Channel 6 Low Input - 09

Channel 6 High Input - 08

Channel 4 Low Input - 07

Channel 4 High Input - 06

Channel 2 Low Input - 05

Channel 2 High Input - 04

Channel 0 Low Input - 03

Channel 0 High Input - 02

Analog (B) Ground - 01

37 - Analog (B) Ground
36 - Channel 15 High Input
35 - Channel 14 High Input
34 - Channel 13 Low Input
33 - Channel 13 High Input
32 - Channel 11 Low Input
31 - Channel 11 High Input
30 - Channel 9 Low Input
29 - Channel 9 High Input
28 - Channel 7 Low Input
27 - Channel 7 High Input
26 - Channel 5 Low Input
25 - Channel 5 High Input
24 - Channel 3 Low Input
23 - Channel 3 High Input
22 - Channel 1 Low Input
21 - Channel 1 High Input
20 - CJC Voltage Input

Figure B-1. Pin Assignments for DAS-TC/B Main I/O Connector

B-1

C

CE Information

for the DAS-TC/B

Note:

EMC directive 89/336 EEC. If this directive is not of importance to your
application, please disregard the information in this appendix.

Keithley certifies that this product has been tested and found to be in
compliance with the EMC directive and relevant harmonized standards.
This appendix describes the limitation of certification, the declaration of
conformity, and the cabling instructions required for the CE
configuration.

Products that contain the CE mark are certified to meet European

Limitation of Certification

This certification applies only to the operation of the product (with
specified cables and accessories) in the stated configuration and under the
stated operational and environmental specifications. Any modification,
misuse, or improper or inadequate maintenance of the product by the user
voids this certification.

Any deviation from the specific configuration may cause emissions or
susceptibility not within the allowed limits required by the stated
directive. It is the user’s responsibility to demonstrate and maintain
compliance with the directive and standards.

Please read the next section for the specific testing configuration for this
product. Consult the Keithley Instruments GMBH office (European
importer) or Technical Support for further
information regarding the exact configuration details and testing.

Limitation of Certification C-1

Declaration of Conformity

Application of Council Directive(s) 89/336/EEC

Standard(s) to which Conformity is
Declared

Manufacturer’s Name

Importer’s Name

Importer’s Address

Type of Equipment

Model Numbers

Year of Manufacture

EN50081-1, EN50082-1

Keithley

Keithley Instruments GMBH

Landsberger Str.65 D-82110 Germering, Munich

Data Acquisition Plug-in Boards

DAS-TC/B and S-1800 with either an STC-TC/B or
STA-TC/B

1996

I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms

to the above Directive(s) and Standard(s).

Place: Taunton, MA USA

(Signature)

Date: 01 January 1996 Mark Urban

(Name)

Quality Assurance Manager

(Position)

C-2 CE Information for the DAS-TC/B

Cabling Instructions for the CE Configuration

As shown in Figure C-1, the STC-TC/B plugs directly into the I/O
connector of the DAS-TC/B board.

DAS-TC/B

STC-TC/B

Figure C-1. Connecting a DAS-TC/B Board to an STC-TC/B

The STA-TC/B connects to the main I/O connector of the DAS-TC/B
through the S-1800 cable, as shown in Figure C-2.

Screw

terminals for

thermocouples

are beneath

this cover

S-1800

cable

DAS-TC/B

STA-TC/B

Screw

terminals for

thermocouples

are beneath

this cover

Figure C-2. Connecting a DAS-TC/B Board to an STA-TC/B

Cabling Instructions for the CE Configuration C-3

Index

A

accessory

C-1800 cable
S-1800 cable
STA-TC/B

connecting 4-7, C-3
description
summary

STC-TC/B

connecting 4-7, C-3
description
summary

ADC (analog-to-digital converter)

multiplexing to

analog-to-digital converter (ADC)

multiplexing to
anti-static wrapper
applications engineer

B

B GND terminal on accessories

using

4-6, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13, 4-14, 4-15

base I/O address
bias currents

definition

minimizing effects
board

grounding during handling to protect

handling

inspection

1-4, 4-7

1-4, 4-7, C-3

4-2

1-4

4-2

1-4

4-9
4-9

3-8

3-10

4-10

3-8

3-9

7-5

4-9

3-8

C

cable

C-1800

S-1800
calibration
CE information
certification
CHASSIS GND terminal on accessories

using
checking the installation
CMRR (common mode rejection ratio)
cold junction compensation
common mode

connection

error

rejection ratio (CMMR)

voltage
computer resources

pre- installation inventory
configuring

DriverLINX

installation
connecting

accessories and external circuits

STA-TC/B for CE Mark

STC-TC/B for CE Mark
connector, main I/O

1-4, 4-7

1-4, 4-7, C-3

6-1

C-1

C-1

4-6, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13, 4-14, 4-15

3-11

4-4

4-10, 4-11, 4-12, 4-14, 4-15

4-9

4-9

4-9

3-1

3-7

3-7

4-1
C-3
C-3

B-1

D

Data Logger utility
Delph, DriverLINX driver for
documentation, DriverLINX

accessing
installing

documentation, this manual, installing

5-1

1-2

3-6

3-3

4-9

3-3

X-1

DriverLINX

configuring
description
documentation, accessing
documentation, installing
installing

3-7

1-2

3-6

3-3

3-3

E

error, analog ground

minimizing

4-9, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13, 4-14

4-15

F

factory

calibration

preset base I/O address
features
floating signal source, general, connecting

1-1

4-13

3-9

3-10

I

inputs

explanation
schematic 4-8

inspection, board 3-8
installation

checking
configuring 3-7
resource inventory 3-1

installing

DAS-TC/B board

,

documentation 3-3
software, DriverLINX 3-3

interfaces

installing for applications

interrupt levels A-5

L

LabVIEW software

description
installation 3-3

4-9

3-11

3-10

3-4

1-4

G

grounded signal source,general, connecting

4-14

grounded thermocouple, connecting
grounding, electrostatic

handling to protect board

to protect board
grounds

on accessories

types

4-5

using 4-6, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13, 4-14, 4-15

X-2 Index

3-8

4-6

4-12

3-8

M

main I/O connector B-1
manuals, DriverLINX

accessing
installing 3-3

multiplexer, in DAS-TC/B 4-9

3-6

N

noise rejection

via common mode conection

4-15

O

open-thermocouple detection 4-5

P

pin assignments B-1
problem isolation 7-1
programming languages

DriverLINX driver for, compatibility

R

4-11, 4-12,

1-2

software

DriverLINX

description 1-2
installing

included with board 1-2
LabVIEW

3-3

description 1-4
installing

TestPoint

3-3

description 1-3
installing

specifications A-1
starting

Data Logger

STA-TC/B accessory 1-4

connecting 4-7, C-3
description 4-2

STC-TC/B accessory 1-4

connecting 4-7, C-3
description 4-2

3-2

5-2

resources, installation, inventory 3-1
RMA number 7-6

S

Safety Precautions 7
schematic

DAS-TC/B block diagram

inputs 4-8
sensor, cold junction temperature 4-4
sgnal

floating signal source, connecting

floating source, general, connecting 4-13

grounded source, general, connecting

4-14

2-2

4-10

T

technical support 7-5
termperature

cold junction

TestPoint software

description
installation 3-2

thermocouple

grounded thermocouple, connecting
open circuit detection. 4-5

types 1-1
ungrounded thermocouple, connecting

thermocouple-input specifications A-3
troubleshooting 7-1

4-4

1-3

4-12

4-10

X-3

U

W

ungrounded thermocouple, connecting 4-10
utility

Data Logger

5-1

V

Visual Basic

DriverLINX driver for
Visual C/C++

DriverLINX driver for
voltage input specifications A-2

1-2
1-2

warranty repairs 7-6
wrapper, anti-static 3-8
wrist strap, grounded 3-8

X-4 Index

Specifications are subject to change without notice.
All Keithley trademarks and trade names are the property of Keithley Instruments, Inc. All other trademarks and

trade names are the property of their respective companies.

Keithley Instruments, Inc. 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139 • 440-248-0400 • Fax: [phone]

1-888-KEITHLEY (534-8453) • www.keithley.com

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© Copyright 2001 Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Printed in the U.S.A.

4/02