Tektronix EXP-1800 Users Guide

EXP-1800

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

EXP-1800

User’s Guide

Revision B - November 2001

Part Number: 92160

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 Scientic 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

the equipment is operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately
trained.

Operators

of the instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.

Maintenance personnel

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.

is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that

use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use

perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting

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 con-

nections.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation re-

quires 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

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Functional Description

2

Ground Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Input-Conditioning Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Multiplexer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Instrumentation Amplifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

CJC Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Inspection and Setup

3

Unwrapping and Inspecting Your EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Locating Setup Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Setting the Input-Conditioning Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Signal Filtering (Switch 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Open-Thermocouple Detection (Switches 2 and 3) . . . . . . . 3-4

Ground Selection (Switches 3 and 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

4-to-20 mA Current Measuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Positioning the Channel-Select Jumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Setting the CJC-Select Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Setting Up for Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Installing a PG-408A DC/DC Converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Installing in a Desktop Enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Cabling and Wiring

4

Connecting to a DAS Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Connecting to a KPCI-3108 Series Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s in Desktop Enclosure . . . . . 4-6

Connecting an FWA-EXP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

i

Connecting an FWA-1800U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Connecting Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Precautions for Using a DAS Board at High Gains . . . 4-11

Additional Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Common Connection Schemes for Differential Inputs . . . 4-12

Avoiding Ground Loops with Differential Inputs . . . . . . . 4-14

5

Calibration

When using DAS Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Equipment Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Potentiometer Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Calibration Procedure (DAS boards, ASO software) . . . . . . 5-3

When using KPCI Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Equipment Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Configuration of DriverLINX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Configuration of EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Troubleshooting

6

Problem Isolation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Testing the Board and Host Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Testing the Input Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

A

Specifications

B

Connector Pin Assignments

Main I/O Connector for DAS Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

I/O Connectors of the EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

C

Channel Numbers for Software

When using DAS Boards with ASO Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

When using DriverLINX Software

(DAS or KPCI Boards) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4

ii

List of Figures

Figure 2-1 Block Diagram of EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Figure 2-2 EXP-1800 Input Conditioning Circuits at

Each Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Figure 2-3 Power Select Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Figure 3-1 Component Locations on the EXP-1800 . . . . . . 3-2

Figure 3-2 A 4-Pole DIP Switch for Input-Conditioning

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Figure 3-3 EXP-1800 Jumper Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Figure 3-4 Locating Pin 1 on the PG-408A and

the Socket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Figure 3-5 ENCL-4 Shell with Four Pairs of Slotted

Card Guides (rear panel not shown) . . . . . . 3-8

Figure 3-6 ENCL-4 Enclosure Containing Four

EXP-1800s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Figure 4-1 Connecting an EXP-1800 to a DAS Board . . . . . 4-1

Figure 4-2 Channel Expansion — EXP-1800 Connection . . 4-2
Figure 4-3 Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs . 4-3
Figure 4-4 Connecting External Power for Multiple

EXP-1800s on Standoffs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Figure 4-5 Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s in an

ENCL-4 Desktop Enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Figure 4-6 Connecting External Power to EXP-1800s

in an ENCL Series Enclosure (lower

EXP-1800 is powered by DAS board) . . . . 4-7

Figure 4-7 Attaching an FWA-EXP to an EXP-1800 . . . . . 4-8

Figure 4-8 Clamping Wire Pairs Attached to Screw

Terminals of the FWA-EXP . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Figure 4-9 Attaching an FWA-1800U to an EXP-1800 . . . 4-10
Figure 4-10 Clamping Wire Pairs Attached to Screw

Terminals of the FWA-1800U . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Figure 4-11 Three Types of Connections for Wiring a

Signal Source to an FWA-EXP or to

Connector J5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Figure 4-12 A Differential Input Configuration that

Avoids a Ground Loop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Figure 4-13 Differential Input Configuration with a

Ground Loop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Figure 5-1 Component Locations on the EXP-1800 . . . . . . 5-2

Figure 5-2 General Purpose Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Figure 5-3 Configuration for Single Ended Mode . . . . . . . . 5-5

Figure 5-4 Testing Panel Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

iii

Figure 5-5 Selecting a Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Figure B-1 Pin Assignments for Main I/O Connectors

of DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series Boards . . . . B-1

Figure B-2 Pin Assignments for Connectors J6 and J7

of the EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

Figure B-3 Pin Assignments for Connector J1 of the

EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3

Figure B-4 Pin Assignments for Connector J5 of the

EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

Figure C-1 Analog Input Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

Figure C-2 Analog Input Channels when Using

DriverLINX Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4

List of Tables

Table 2-1 Gains and Ranges for a DAS-1801ST/AO

board with an EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Table 2-2 Gains and Ranges for a DAS-1802ST/HR/AO board

with an EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Table 2-3 Gains and Ranges for a KPCI-3108 board

with an EXP-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Table 6-1 Troubleshooting Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Figure A-1 General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Figure C-1 Channel Numbers in Maximum EXP-1800

Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

iv

Preface

This guide is intended to help you understand the installation, interface
requirements, functions, and operation of the EXP-1800 expansion
accessory. The EXP-1800 is an accessory for DAS-1800ST/HR/AO
Series boards (referred to in this manual as the DAS boards) or
KPCI-3107/KPCI-3108 boards (referred to as KPCI boards).

This guide focuses primarily on describing the EXP-1800 and its
capabilities, setup, and typical hookups. The guide also treats calibration
and troubleshooting. To follow the information and instructions contained
in this manual, you must be familiar with the operation of an IBM
PC/XT™ and PC AT® (or equivalents) in the MS-DOS® or Windows™
environments. You must also be familiar with data-acquisition principles
and application.

™

Organization of the

Chapter 1 describes the features and accessories of the EXP-1800.

●

Chapter 2 describes operating features of the EXP-1800 in more

●

EXP-1800 User’s Guide

is as follows:

detail. This chapter contains a block diagram and brief descriptions of
the features as they relate to your options for setting up and using the
EXP-1800s.

Chapter 3 contains instructions for inspecting and setting up the

●

EXP-1800.

Chapter 4 shows the preferred methods of making I/O (Input/Output)

●

connections to a DAS/KPCI board and available accessories.

●

Chapter 5 discusses calibration requirements and instructions.

●

Chapter 6 contains information on isolating and determining the
source of operating problems. This chapter also contains instructions
for obtaining technical support.

v

Appendix A contains EXP-1800 specifications.

●

●

Appendix B contains pin assignments for the DAS board and
EXP-1800 I/O connectors.

●

Appendix C describes the assignment of logical channel numbers for
a DAS/KPCI board and all attached EXP-1800s for use in software
such as the Control Panel utility (ASO) or AIO Panel Utility
(DriverLINX).

●

An index completes this guide.

vi

1

Overview

The EXP-1800 is an external channel-expansion accessory that places 16
differential inputs on any single-ended input channel of an attached
DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series or KPCI-3108 Series board. A daisy chain
of EXP-1800s can provide up to 256 channels of measurement to an
attached DAS/KPCI board.* The channel-gain queue of the attached
DAS/KPCI board controls the multiplexing sequence of input channels
and the gains on the EXP-1800, enabling high-speed acquisition of data
from the expansion channels.

This chapter describes the features, supporting software, and accessories
of the EXP-1800.

*Note:

using 2700 series systems, which will have reduced noise and lower
system pricing.

Configurations of more than 4 EXP’s may be better implemented

Features

Features of the EXP-1800 include the following:

Contains 16 differential inputs.

●

●

Multiplexes the differential inputs under the control of and at the
speed of the host DAS/KPCI board.

Provides optimum throughput even with changing gains.

●

●

Connects in a daisy chain to additional EXP-1800s through ribbon
cable to provide up to 256 inputs for a DAS/KPCI board.

Features 1-1

Contains a 16-position jumper block for selecting the input channel of

●

the attached DAS/KPCI board.

●

Offers gains of 1 and 50 that combine with gains of the DAS/KPCI
board to provide usable system gains of 1 to 400.

●

Works with optional, plug-in, field-wiring accessories containing
convenient screw terminals.

●

Provides mass-termination connector access for its own I/O channels
and for the DAS/KPCI board I/O.

●

Accepts power from the computer or from an external source that
switches in only while the computer is on. *KPCI-3108 requires use
of external power and PG-408A.

●

Provides holes for a 4-to-20 mA current-measuring resistor at each
input (additional range is available with other resistance values).

●

Contains a switch-activated, 80 Hz, passive filter for each input.

Contains a switch-activated, open-thermocouple-detection circuit for

●

each input.

Contains a switch-activated, low-side bias resistor for each input.

●

(Before you use this circuit, refer to the cautionary note on page 3-4.)

Contains two, non-interactive, offset trimpots for input calibration

●

●

Works with the supporting software of the attached DAS/KPCI board.

●

Conforms to VME 6U card size and fits a variety of Eurocard
enclosures, including the ENCL Series enclosures from Keithley.

Supporting Software

Supporting software for the DAS/KPCI boards also supports the
EXP-1800. Refer to your DAS/KPCI board user’s guide for a description
of this software.

1-2 Overview

Accessories

The following accessories are available for use with the EXP-1800:

●

CAB-50

is the cable you use to form a daisy chain of EXP-1800s; this
cable is available in two lengths, as follows: the CAB-50 is 4 inches
long, and the CAB-50/1 is 18 inches long.

CDAS-2000

●

is the cable you use to connect an EXP-1800 to a DAS

board; this cable is 24 inches long.

CAB-PWR

●

is the cable you use to connect external power to an
EXP-1800 in a daisy chain; this cable is available in two lengths, as
follows: the CAB-PWR is 4 inches long and the CAB-PWR/1 is 18
inches long with a jack on one end and stripped and tinned leads on
the other.

●

FWA-EXP

is a field-wiring accessory containing screw terminals and
a CJC circuit. This accessory plugs into connector J5 to deliver
signals from field wiring to the input channels of the EXP-1800.

●

FWA-1800U

is a field-wiring accessory containing screw terminals.
This accessory plugs into connector J1 on the EXP-1800 to route
signals from field wiring directly to the attached DAS/KPCI board.

●

ENCL Series

are desktop enclosures for one (ENCL-1), two
(ENCL-2), or four (ENCL-4) EXP-1800s with access for all required
cabling or accessories.

●

PG-408A

is a snap-in DC/DC converter module for use with an

EXP-1800 that is to be powered from an external +5 V source.

●

PWR-5V

is a power supply for supplying external power to
EXP-1800s; this supply has an IEC 320 connector and converts 100
to 240 VAC at 50 to 60 Hz to +5 VDC.

●

STA-3108-A1 and CACC-2000

are used to connect an EXP-1800 to

a CAB-1284CC cable from a KPCI-3108 Series board.

Accessories 1-3

2

Functional Description

This chapter describes features of the EXP-1800. The descriptions are
provided to familiarize you with the operating options and to enable you
to make the best use of your EXP-1800. Figure 2-1 shows a block
diagram of the EXP-1800.

2-1

FWA-EXP

input

FWA-1800U

FWA

I/O

Connector J5

• Low-side bias return

• Current-sense resistor

Figure 2-1. Block Diagram of EXP-1800

Gain = 1or 50

Differential

Inputs

16

at each Channel:

• Filtering

• Open TC detect

• Low-side ground connect

Multiplexer

Channel

16:1

EXP

CJC

CJC-

Select

Switch

Input-conditioning circuits

Connector J1

DAS Board I/O

+15 V −15 V

Power

Jumper

Select

Channel-

Board

DAS

board

MUX and Gain Control Lines

Cable to

DAS

BOARD

J3

external

supply

DAS

from

Select

Switch

+5 V

Power-

EXT

J4

EXPs

of

chain

daisy

Connector J7Connector J6

+5 V to

chain of

EXPs

Cable to

daisy

2-2 Functional Description

Ground T ypes

An EXP-1800 contains separate grounds for low-level signals, analog
power returns, digital signals, and the chassis. The ground for analog
signals is LL GND (low-level ground); as its title suggests, LL GND is
for low-level analog input signals and is designed to be as noise-free as
possible. The ground for analog power returns, bypass capacitors, and so
on is GND A. The ground for digital signals is GND D. Chassis ground is
CH GND.

Input-Conditioning Options

The input of each EXP-1800 channel contains the conditioning circuitry
shown in Figure 2-2.

+5 V

R

20 MΩ

Open TC Detect

TC

CHAN n HI

User Input
Channel

CHAN n LO

Low-Side

Connect

to

LL GND

Switch 2

n

Switch 4

RF1

1 kΩ

Mounting
Holes for
4-to-20 mA
Current
Measuring
Resistor

RF2

1 kΩ

Switch 3

80 Hz Filter

Switch 1

R

= 10 kΩ

BIAS

Low-Side

Bias Return

to GND A

CHAN n HI to MUX

CF 1.0 µF

CHAN n LO to MUX

Figure 2-2. EXP-1800 Input Conditioning Circuits at Each Input

Ground Types 2-3

Descriptions of the individual conditioning circuits are as follows:

●

Filtering

- Closing switch 1 activates an 80 Hz low-pass filter

composed of RF1, RF2 and CF.

●

Open-thermocouple detection

an open-thermocouple detector composed of R

●

Low-side bias return -

Closing switch 3 provides a reference to

analog power ground (GND A) through R

- Closing switches 2 and 3 activates

TC and RBIAS.

for ungrounded

BIAS

differential inputs. This reference to ground provides some isolation
from other channels. Before using this switch, refer to the cautionary
note on page 3-4.

●

Low-side ground connect

- Closing switch 4 enables you to
reference an input directly to low-level ground (LL GND), making a
single-ended input. Before using this switch, refer to the cautionary
note on page 3-4.

Multiplexer

Mounting holes for 4-to-20 mA current-measuring resistor

●

­Selecting and mounting a resistor in these holes allows you to make
4-to-20 mA or other current measurements.

Refer to page 3-4 for information on setting up the input conditioning
options.

An EXP-1800 multiplexes signals from 16 differential analog input
channels into one signal for the analog output. The sequence of channel
sampling in the multiplexer is selected by a 4-bit TTL/CMOS-compatible
address on the multiplexer control lines. These lines receive the 4-bit
address signals from QRAM output lines MUX 4 to MUX 7, on the
DAS/KPCI board (see Appendix B for pin assignments).

You set up the multiplexer channel-sampling sequence in the DAS/KPCI
board’s channel-gain queue (in the QRAM circuit) using the provided
utility (see the board user’s guide) or driver software (see the board driver
user’s guide). See Appendix C for channel assignments.

2-4 Functional Description

Instrumentation Amplifier

The multiplexer output feeds to an instrumentation amplifier with a
software-selectable gain of 1 or 50. You set the gain in the DAS/KPCI
board channel-gain queue using the panel utility (see the DAS/KPCI
board user’s guide) or driver (see the board driver user’s guide). The
DAS/KPCI board delivers the gain code to the EXP-1800 gain control
lines through QRAM output line GEXT.

Total gain for an EXP-1800 input is the product of the gain settings for the
EXP-1800 and the DAS/KPCI board. Table 2-1 shows the achievable
gains for a DAS-1801ST/AO board and an attached EXP-1800.

T ab le 2-1. Gains and Ranges for a DAS-1801ST/AO board with

an EXP-1800

DAS Board

Gain

1 1 1 0 to 5 V

5 1 5 0 to 1 V

50 1 50 0 to 100 mV ±100 mV

250 1 250 0 to 20 mV ±20 mV

1 50 50 0 to 100 mV ±100 mV

5 50 250 0 to 20 mV ±20 mV

50 50 2500 0 to 2 mV ±2 mV

250 50 12500 0 to 0.4 mV ±0.4 mV

Note:

While Table 2-1 shows gains of 2500 and 12500 as achievable, the

EXP-1800

Gain

System

Gain

System

Unipolar Range

use of these gains is not practical for typical applications.

System Bipolar

Range

±

5.0 V

±

1.0 V

Instrumentation Amplifier 2-5

Table 2-2 shows the achievable gains for a DAS-1802ST/HR/AO board
and an attached EXP-1800.

Table 2-2. Gains and Ranges for a DAS-1802ST/HR/AO board

with an EXP-1800

DAS Board

Gain

1 1 1 0 to +10.0 V ±10 V

2 1 2 0 to +5.0 V ±5.0 V

4 1 4 0 to 2.5 V ± 2.5 V

8 1 8 0 to 1.25 V ±1.25 V

1 50 50 0 to 0.2 V ±0.2 V

2 50 100 0 to 0.1 V ±0.1 V

4 50 200 0 to 50 mV ±50 mV

8 50 400 0 to 25 mV ±25 mV

EXP-1800

Gain

System

Gain

System

Unipolar Range

Table 2-3. Gains and Ranges for a KPCI-3108 board

with an EXP-1800

KPCI-3108

Board Gain

EXP-1800

Gain

System

Gain

System

Unipolar Range

System Bipolar

Range

System Bipolar

Range

1 1 1 0 to +10.0 V ±10 V

2 1 2 0 to +5.0 V ±5.0 V

4 1 4 0 to 2.5 V ±2.5 V

8 1 8 0 to 1.25 V ±1.25 V

10 1 10 0 to 1.0 V ±1.0 V

20 1 20 0 to 0.5 V ±0.5 V

40 1 40 0 to 0.25 V ±0.25 V

1 50 50 0 to 0.2 V ±0.2 V

80 1 80 0 to 0.125 V ±0.125 V

2-6 Functional Description

Table 2-3. Gains and Ranges for a KPCI-3108 board

with an EXP-1800 (cont.)

KPCI-3108

Board Gain

2 50 100 0 to 100 mV ±100 mV

4 50 200 0 to 50 mV ±50 mV

8 50 400 0 to 25 mV ±25 mV

10 50 500 0 to 20 mV ±20 mV

800 1 800 0 to 12.5 mV ±12.5 mV

20 50 1000 0 to 10 mV ±10 mV

*40 50 2000 0 to 5 mV ±5 mV

*80 50 4000 0 to 2.5 mV ±2.5 mV

*100 50 5000 0 to 2.0 mV ±2.0 mV

*200 50 10000 0 to 1.0 mV ±1.0 mV

*400 50 20000 0 to 0.5 mV ±0.5 mV

*800 50 40000 0 to 0.25 mV ±0.25 mV

*Achievable gains, but unlikely to be practical in typical applications.

EXP-1800

Gain

System

Gain

System

Unipolar Range

System Bipolar

Range

CJC Circuit

The EXP-1800 contains CJC circuitry that delivers 0.0 mV at 0°C and

10.0 mV/˚C. You use the CJC on the EXP-1800 when you are not using an
FWA-EXP (which contains its own CJC).

When you are using the CJC on the EXP-1800, set the CJC source-select
switch to EXP. When you are using the CJC on an FWA-EXP, set the CJC
source-select switch to FWA. You can connect the CJC output voltage to
any EXP-1800 input channel using jumper wires on an FWA-EXP (refer
to “Connecting an FWA-EXP” on page 4-8 for instructions) or on a
mass-termination connector at J5.

CJC Circuit 2-7

Power

You can set an EXP-1800 to receive power from the DAS board or from
an external power supply. Power from the DAS board is always present on
the ±15 V lines of the CDAS-2000 cable*. Power from an external source
must come through a separate cable that plugs into the power jack of the
EXP-1800.

EXP-1800 input circuitry for external power contains a relay powered by
the +5 V line from the DAS board*. The relay energizes to close its
contacts only when the +5 V from the DAS board is present. Figure 2-3
shows input circuitry for power to the EXP-1800.

K1 Relay

From

External

+5 V

Supply

From the
the DAS

board

+5 V line*

From

DAS

Board*

+15 V

−15 V

PG-408A

DC/DC
Converter
(Optional)

+15 V

−15 V

S9

+15 V

Power to
EXP-1800

−15 V

Power
Select

Switch

(shown

set for

external

power)

Figure 2-3. Power Select Circuit

For information on setting up an EXP-1800 for DAS board or external
power, refer to page 3-6.

*Note: These supplies are NOT available from KPCI boards. Use of

EXP-1800 with KPCI-3108 Series requires the use of PG-408A and
external 5VDC power supply such as PWR-5V.

2-8 Functional Description

Inspection and Setup

This chapter describes how to inspect and set up your EXP-1800. Read
this chapter before you attempt to use your EXP-1800.

Unwrapping and Inspecting Your EXP-1800

Caution: Your computer must be turned OFF and grounded before you

perform the following procedure.

After you remove the wrapped EXP-1800 from its outer shipping carton,
proceed as follows:

3

1. Your EXP-1800 is packaged at the factory in an anti-static wrapper
that must not be removed until you have discharged static electricity
by either of the following methods:

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

static electricity as soon as you hold the wrapped EXP-1800.

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

static electricity by holding the wrapped EXP-1800 in one hand
while placing your other hand firmly on a metal portion of the
computer chassis.

2. Carefully remove the anti-static wrapper. (You may wish to store the
wrapping material for future use.)

3. Inspect the EXP-1800 and any other item from the package for signs
of damage. If damage is apparent, arrange to return the damaged item
to the factory (see “Technical Support” on page 6-4).

Unwrapping and Inspecting Your EXP-1800 3-1

4. Check the contents of your package against the packing list to be sure
your order is complete. Report any missing items, immediately.

5. When you are satisfied with the inspection, proceed with the
hardware setup.

Locating Setup Components

Refer to Figure 3-1 for the locations of all EXP-1800 components
mentioned in this chapter.

Connector for

cable to additional

EXP-1800s

S9

J2

Power-select

slide switch

PG-408A

socket

CH 15

J1

J7

Output for +5 V

from external

supply

J4

Gain of 50

zero

adjust

Gain of 1

R13

CH 0

R14

zero

adjust

Input for +5 V from

external supply

J3

CJC

source

select

3456789

2

1

S18

Connector for

DAS/KPCI board

J6

CH14

CH13CH12

CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7

10111213141516

J5

CH15

CH11CH10CH9CH8

CH3CH2CH1CH0

cable to

DIP
switches
for input­conditioning
circuits

Mounting
holes for
current­measuring
resistors

Connector for

FWA-1800U to connect

field wiring to attached

DAS/KPCI board

Connector for

FWA-EXP to

connect field wiring

to EXP-1800 inputs

Figure 3-1. Component Locations on the EXP-1800

3-2 Inspection and Setup

In Figure 3-1, connectors J6 and J7 are actually identical and
interchangeable for use with a DAS/KPCI board and an EXP-1800.
Similarly, external power supply connectors J3 and J4 are connected in
parallel.

Setting the Input-Conditioning Options

The four switches in the input-conditioning circuits (see
“Input-Conditioning Options” on page 2-3) of each channel are contained
in a 4-pole DIP switch represented by the diagram in Figure 3-2. Note that
the switch numbers in the diagram of Figure 2-2 on page 2-3 correspond
to the numbers printed on the DIP switch.

O

1 2 3 4

N

Figure 3-2. A 4-Pole DIP Switch for Input-Conditioning Options

A switch is closed when pushed to the ON position. Figure 3-2, shows all
of the switches set for their default (open) positions.

Generally, you leave all switches open for a pure differential input. You
close only switch 1 for a differential input that is to have low-pass
filtering. You close switches 1, 2, and 3 together for thermocouple
measurements (leaving switch 4 open), or you close switches 2 and 3,
leaving 1 and 4 open for no filter. You close only switch 4 for a
wide-band, single-ended input. You close switches 1 and 4 together for a
single-ended input that requires low-pass filtering.

Note: You should have no need for closing switches 3 and 4 together, as

this combination of settings shorts R

to ground and seriously

BIAS

degrades EXP-1800 performance.

Setting the Input-Conditioning Options 3-3

The following subsections describe the use of each of the
input-conditioning circuits and their switches.

Signal Filtering (Switch 1)

Closing switch 1 combines resistors RF1 and RF2 with capacitor CF to
form an 80 Hz low-pass filter. Opening switch 1 disables the filter to give
faster settling time. A closed setting is recommended for thermocouple
measurements. The default setting for switch 1 is open.

Open-Thermocouple Detection (Switches 2 and 3)

Closing switch 2 puts the 20 MΩ resistor, RTC, between the high side of a
thermocouple input and the +5 V supply. Closing switch 3 completes the
open-thermocouple-detection circuit by putting the 10 kΩ resistor, R
between the low side of a thermocouple input and ground. Resistors R
and R
voltage to +5 V. As this voltage is larger than what a thermocouple can
produce, you can develop a software routine to sense any input voltage
above a certain threshold and flag the open thermocouple. (At any system
gain of four or higher, the DAS/KPCI board will read this channel as
being at the positive full scale value). The default setting for switches 2
and 3 is open.

respond to an open thermocouple by changing the input

BIAS

BIAS

TC

,

Ground Selection (Switches 3 and 4)

Closing switch 3 provides a reference to analog power ground (GND A)
for differential circuits that are not grounded. Switch 3 must be closed
when you wish to activate open-thermocouple detection. The default
setting for switch 3 is open.

Closing switch 4 enables you to reference an input to low-level ground
(LL GND). The default setting for switch 4 is open.

Caution: Use care when you short channels to LL GND. Switching a

single channel to LL GND is not generally a problem. However, shorting
multiple channels to LL GND can cause significant ground current to flow
(as a result of common mode potential between channel sources),
resulting in noise and degradation not only in the shorted channels but all
other active channels. In this case, short the channels to GND A.

3-4 Inspection and Setup

4-to-20 mA Current Measuring

The 4-to-20 mA current-measuring option requires the installation of a
resistor in the mounting holes for the desired channel input. These
mounting holes are located as shown in Figure 3-1 on page 3-2. A typical
resistor value for this option is 250 Ω. (with 0.1% accuracy).

While 4 to 20 mA is the more frequently used measuring range, the actual
measuring range of this option is 100 µA to 100 mA, at a nominal 0.03%
accuracy. To determine a resistance value for a particular current value,
use the relationship

R

Sample

where R

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

=

DASGain()EXPGain()

is the value of the current-measuring resistor, DASFS is the

Sample

DASFS

I

()⋅⋅

FullScale

full-scale input range of the DAS/KPCI board, DASGain is the gain of the
DAS/KPCI board, EXPGain is the gain of the EXP-1800, and I
the anticipated current flow. For example, with a DAS/KPCI board
full-scale input of ±10V and gain of 8, an EXP-1800 gain of 50, and a
full-scale current of 100 µA, the resistance becomes 250 Ω, as follows:

R

Sample

-------------------------------------------------

=

10

⋅⋅

8() 50()0.0001()

˙

Positioning the Channel-Select Jumper

The EXP-1800 contains a 16-position jumper block for selecting the
DAS/KPCI board input channel that is to receive the multiplexed output
from the EXP-1800. To select a board input channel, move the jumper to
the pins for the corresponding channel number. Figure 3-3 shows the
EXP-1800 jumper block set for channel 3.

FullScale

is

chan 15

chan 14

chan 13

chan 12

chan 11

chan 10

chan 09

chan 08

chan 07

chan 06

chan 05

chan 04

chan 03

chan 02

chan 01

chan 00

J2

Figure 3-3. EXP-1800 Jumper Block

Positioning the Channel-Select Jumper 3-5

Setting the CJC-Select Switch

Switch S18 determines whether your data acquisition system uses the
CJC circuit on the EXP-1800 or the CJC circuit on the FWA-EXP. The
two positions for this switch are marked as FWA (for using the CJC on the
FWA-EXP) and EXP (for using the CJC on the EXP-1800).

While the CJC circuits on the EXP-1800 and the FWA-EXP are the same,
the CJC on an attached FWA-EXP gives the more accurate measurement
of temperature at the field-wiring connections. Therefore, if you are using
an attached FWA-EXP for thermocouple measurements, set switch S18 to
FWA.

Setting Up for Power

The ability of a DAS board to provide power for EXP-1800s is as follows:

● A DAS-1800AO Series, DAS-1800ST-DA Series, or

DAS-1802HR-DA board can provide power for no more than one
EXP-1800. If you need to attach more than one EXP-1800, you must
set up each additional EXP-1800 to receive power from an external
supply.

● A DAS-1801ST, DAS-1802ST, or DAS-1802HR board can provide

power for no more than two EXP-1800s. If you need to attach more
than two EXP-1800s, you must set up each additional EXP-1800 to
receive power from an external supply.

To set up an EXP-1800 to receive power from the DAS board, set the
power-select switch (S9) of the EXP-1800 to DAS BOARD (internal
power).

To set up an EXP-1800 to receive power from an external supply, perform
the following steps. (NOTE: This is the only

way to use with KPCI-3108

Series.)

1. Install a PG-408A DC/DC converter module (see the following
section for installation instructions).

2. Set the power-select switch to EXT (external power).

3. Connect a +5 V supply to the external power supply jack (refer to
Chapter 4 for instructions on connecting multiple EXP-1800s).

3-6 Inspection and Setup

Installing a PG-408A DC/DC Converter

The PG-408A DC/DC converter module is an encapsulated package with
connector pins protruding from its bottom surface. The socket for this
package is a space on the EXP-1800 marked as shown in Figure 3-1 on
page 3-2.

Pin 1 on the PG-408A is indicated either by a beveled corner on the
module or a beveled corner on the module label. Be sure to match pin 1 of
the PG-408A with pin 1 of the socket (pin 1 is marked on the EXP-1800)
when snapping the module onto the EXP-1800. Figure 3-4 shows a
diagram of the pin 1 location.

Bevel indicating

pin 1 can be on

case or label

1

PG-408A

1

EXP-1800

Socket

Figure 3-4. Locating Pin 1 on the PG-408A and the Socket

Installing a PG-408A DC/DC Converter 3-7

Installing in a Desktop Enclosure

Each version of an ENCL Series enclosure contains slotted card guides
and a rear panel that accommodates the rear connectors of each installed
EXP-1800. Figure 3-5 shows an ENCL-4 enclosure (without rear panel)
with four pairs of slotted card guides. Screw holes for front-panel screws
of the EXP-1800s are shown on the front face of each card guide.

Figure 3-5. ENCL-4 Shell with Four Pairs of Slotted Card Guides

(rear panel not shown)

To install an EXP-1800 in an ENCL Series enclosure, perform the
following steps:

1. Remove the four standoffs from each EXP-1800 to be installed.

2. Insert an EXP-1800 into the slots of a pair of card guides.

3. Gently push the EXP-1800 toward the rear of the desktop enclosure
until the front-panel screws meet the tapped holes on the fronts of the
card guides.

4. Fasten the front-panel screws to the card guides.

3-8 Inspection and Setup

An ENCL-4 containing four EXP-1800 appears as shown in Figure 3-6.
Refer to Chapter 4 for cabling instructions.

Figure 3-6. ENCL-4 Enclosure Containing Four EXP-1800s

Installing in a Desktop Enclosure 3-9

Cabling and Wiring

This chapter describes the cabling and wiring required for making
connections to your EXP-1800.

Caution: Avoid electrical damage by turning off power to all equipment

in your data acquisition system before making connections.

Connecting to a DAS Board

Before connecting an EXP-1800 to a DAS board, configure the channels
of the DAS board as single-ended inputs. An EXP-1800 connects directly
to the main I/O connector of a DAS board through a CDAS-2000 cable, as
shown in Figure 4-1.

4

J5

J6

Figure 4-1. Connecting an EXP-1800 to a DAS Board

Connecting to a DAS Board 4-1

J7

J1

CDAS-2000

Cable

DAS1800ST/HR/AO Series Board

Connecting to a KPCI-3108 Series Board

Channel Expansion

EXP-1800 connection

KPCI-3107
KPCI-3108

CAB-1284CC

Analog

Digital

CACC-2000

CAB-50/1

CAB-50/1

STA-3108-A1

EXP-1800*

EXP-1800*

*When using the EXP-1800, either a PWR-5V (120VAC source) or PWR-5V/E (230VAC source)
must be used in conjunction with a PG480A (DC-DC converter).

Figure 4-2. Channel Expansion — EXP-1800 Connection

Note:

When using EXP accessories, the noise specification of the
KPCI-3108 is degraded. Use of signal averaging (25 points or more) is
advised. Configurations requiring more than four EXP-1800s can
generally be implemented with lower noise (and at lower cost) using the
2700 series.

4-2 Cabling and Wiring

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs

You can attach up to 16 EXP-1800s to a DAS/KPCI board. To connect
additional EXP-1800s, use a CAB-50/1 cable, as shown in Figure 4-3.

CAB-50/1

Cable

J7

J1

J5

J6

CAB-50/1

Cable

J7

J1

J5

J6

To

DAS/KPCI

board

Figure 4-3. Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs

Note: When you connect more than one EXP-1800 in a daisy chain, the

multiplexer control lines to all EXP-1800s are in parallel and delivering
the same multiplexer channel-selection sequence to all attached
EXP-1800s simultaneously.

The DAS board furnishes power only for the first one or two EXP-1800s
in a daisy chain (refer to “Setting Up for Power” on page 3-6). (KPCI
boards cannot furnish power to EXP-1800s and must always be used with
external power.) If you are attaching additional EXP-1800s, you must first
perform the setup procedure described on page 3-6. Connect external
power to the additional EXP-1800s as shown in Figure 4-4.

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs 4-3

PWR-5V

Power Supply

To DAS/KPCI

board

EXP-1800EXP-1800EXP-1800EXP-1800EXP-1800

Cables

CAB-PWR/1

Figure 4-4. Connecting External Power for Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs

CAUTION:

power supply output

The center terminal of the

connector must be positive,

not work.

or the power switching

circuit of the EXP-1800s will

4-4 Cabling and Wiring

When you feed power to the EXP-1800s through series cabling, as shown
in Figure 4-4, you can power up to four EXP-1800s from a single external
power supply (this limitation is caused by wire size in the cables). If you
feed power to the EXP-1800s through parallel wiring (a separate set of
wires from the power supply to each EXP-1800), the only limitation is the
current capacity of the power supply.

Note: If you prefer to make your own cables for external power, you can

obtain a connector compatible with connectors J4 and J5; this connector
is Switchcraft PW and H S760.

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s on Standoffs 4-5

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s in Desktop Enclosure

You can attach up to 16 EXP-1800s in enclosures to a DAS/KPCI board.
To connect one or more additional EXP-1800s that are mounted in a
desktop enclosure, use CAB-50 cables as shown in Figure 4-5.

CAB-50/1 to Additional EXP-1800s

J6

J6

CAB-50

J6

J6

CDAS-2000 to DAS Board or

CACC-2000 to STA-3108A1

J7

CAB-50

J7

J7

CAB-50

J7

Rear Panel

Figure 4-5. Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s in an ENCL-4 Desktop

Enclosure

Note: When you connect more than one EXP-1800 in a daisy chain, the

multiplexer control lines to all EXP-1800s are in parallel and delivering
the same multiplexer channel-selection sequence to all attached
EXP-1800s simultaneously.

4-6 Cabling and Wiring

The DAS board furnishes power only for the first one or two EXP-1800s
in a daisy chain (refer to “Setting Up for Power” on page 3-6). (KPCI
boards cannot furnish power to EXP-1800s and must always be used with
external power.) If you are attaching additional EXP-1800s, you must first
perform the setup procedure described on page 3-6. Connect external
power to the additional EXP-1800s as shown in Figure 4-6.

CAB-50/1 to Additional

J6

J6

J6

J6

CDAS-2000 to

DAS Board or

CACC-2000 to

STA-3108A1

CAUTION:

The center terminal of the power supply output

connector must be positive, or the power s witching

circuit of the EXP-1800s will not work.

EXP-1800s

J7

J7

J7

J7

CAB-PWR/1 to
next EXP-1800

CAB-PWR

CAB-PWR/1
from External
Power Supply

Figure 4-6. Connecting External Power to EXP-1800s in an ENCL Series Enclosure

(lower EXP-1800 is powered by DAS board)

When you feed power to the EXP-1800s through series cabling, as shown
in Figure 4-6, you can power up to four EXP-1800s from a single power
supply (this limitation is caused by wire size in the cables). If you feed
power to the EXP-1800s through parallel wiring (a separate set of wires
from the power supply to each EXP-1800), the only limitation is the
current capacity of the power supply.

Note: If you prefer to make your own cables for external power, you can

obtain a connector compatible with connectors J4 and J5; this connector
is Switchcraft PW and H S760.

Connecting Multiple EXP-1800s in Desktop Enclosure 4-7

Connecting an FWA-EXP

The FWA-EXP field wiring accessory is a compact, screw-terminal panel
that plugs into connector J5 of an EXP-1800. This accessory provides an
interface between field wiring and circuits of the EXP-1800.

The FWA-EXP contains a CJC circuit with the same characteristics as the
one on the EXP-1800 (refer to “CJC Circuit” on page 2-7). You can
connect the output of the CJC on the EXP-1800 or on the FWA-EXP to
the input of any EXP-1800 channel using the following steps:

1. On the EXP-1800, set the CJC select switch as follows:

– To use the CJC on the EXP-1800, set the switch to EXP.

– To use the CJC on the FWA-EXP, set the switch to FWA.

2. Install a wire between CJC screw terminal and the HI screw terminal

of the desired channel.

3. Install a second wire between the LL GND screw terminal and the LO

screw terminal of the desired input channel.

Note: If you wish to use the CJC while using the FWA-1800U, you must

use the CJC on the FWA-EXP.

Before attaching the FWA-EXP, remove the two retainer screws from
connector J5 on the EXP-1800. Attach the FWA-EXP as shown in Figure
4-7. Secure the FWA-EXP to J5 using the two retainer screws.

J6

J5

FWA-EXP

J1

J7

Figure 4-7. Attaching an FWA-EXP to an EXP-1800

4-8 Cabling and Wiring

Caution: On EXP-1800s whose connectors J1 and J5 are the same

gender (on some earlier models), be particularly careful not to
interchange externally applied connectors and cables. The pin
assignments for the two connectors are different and exchanging the
connectors could damage the EXP-1800.

The clamp on the side of the FWA-EXP is provided to serve as a strain
relief for field wiring attached to the screw terminals. Run all field wiring
through the clamp as shown in Figure 4-8.

Clamp

Figure 4-8. Clamping Wire Pairs Attached to Screw Terminals of the

FWA-EXP

Connecting an FWA-EXP 4-9

Connecting an FWA-1800U

The FWA-1800U screw terminal accessory is a compact, screw-terminal
panel that plugs into connector J1 of an EXP-1800. This accessory
provides direct access to the main I/O connector of the DAS/KPCI board.
The FWA-1800U attaches to an EXP-1800 as shown in Figure 4-9.

J6

J5

J1

J7

FWA-1800U

Figure 4-9. Attaching an FWA-1800U to an EXP-1800

The clamp on the side of the FWA-1800U is provided to serve as a strain
relief for field wiring attached to the screw terminals. Run all field wiring
through the clamp as shown in Figure 4-10.

Clamp

Figure 4-10. Clamping Wire Pairs Attached to Screw Terminals of the

FWA-1800U

4-10 Cabling and Wiring

Connecting Signals

This section contains precautionary advice on making I/O connections.
The section also shows some circuits for wiring signal sources to inputs of
an EXP-1800.

The circuit diagrams in this section represent a single signal source wired
to a single channel (channel n). In reality, you can wire separate signal
sources to all the channels.

Precautions

If you expect to use a DAS/KPCI board at high gain, read the
precautionary information in the following subsection. Other
considerations for I/O connections are offered under “Additional
Precautions” on page 4-12.

Precautions for Using a DAS/KPCI Board at High Gains

Operating a DAS/KPCI board with an EXP-1800 above gains of 50 can
lead to problems if your application setup is sensitive to noise. At a gain
of 250, each bit of analog output corresponds to 10

0.625 µV (16 bit A/D) at the analog input. Thus, with the high speed and
bandwidth of this system, analog noise and performance degradation
come easily unless you take precautions to avoid them. The following
collection of ideas and suggestions is aimed at avoiding these problems:

µV (12 bit A/D) or

● Minimize noise from crosstalk and induced-voltage pickup in flat

cables and screw-terminal accessories by using shielded cable.
Connect the shield to CH GND and the inner conductors to Channel
LO and HI. Channel LO and LL GND should have a DC return (or
connection) at some point; this return should be as close to the signal
source as possible. Induced noise from RF and magnetic fields can
easily exceed tens of microvolts, even on one- or two-foot cables;
shielded cable eliminates this problem.

● Avoid bi-metallic junctions in the input circuitry. For example, the

kovar leads, used on reed relays, typically have a thermal emf to
copper of 40

µV/˚C. Thermals can introduce strange random

variations caused by air currents, and so on.

Connecting Signals 4-11

● Consider filtering. This approach can use hardware (resistors,

capacitors, and so on) but is often accomplished more easily with
software. Instead of taking a single channel reading, take 10 or more
readings in quick succession and average them. If the noise is random
and gaussian, averaging the multiple readings will reduce the noise by
the square root of the number of readings. Use bipolar mode when
averaging signals near 0V to avoid offsets.

● Consider 2700 series for systems with more than 4 EXP-1800s.

Additional Precautions

Do NOT mix your data acquisition inputs with the AC line, or you risk
damaging the computer. Data acquisition systems give you access to
inputs of the computer. An inadvertent short between data and power lines
can cause extensive and costly damage to your computer. The
manufacturer can accept no liability for this type of accident. To prevent
this problem, use the following precautions:

● Avoid direct connections to an AC line.

● Make sure all connections are tight and sound so that signal wires are

not likely to come loose and short to high voltages.

● Use isolation amplifiers where necessary.

Common Connection Schemes for Differential Inputs

Figure 4-11 shows three connection schemes for wiring a floating signal
source to a channel of an FWA-EXP or to connector J5.

The upper two circuits of the diagram require the addition of resistors to
provide a bias-current return. You can determine the value of the bias
return resistors (R
following relationships:

● When R

circuit. The resistance of each of the two bias return resistors must
equal 2000 R

● When R

The resistance of the bias return resistor must be greater than 1000 R

4-12 Cabling and Wiring

) from the value of the source resistance (Rs), using the

b

is greater than 100 Ω, use the connections in the upper

s

.

s

is less than 100 Ω, use the connections in the middle circuit.

s

.

s

● In the input-conditioning circuits for the upper and lower diagrams,

switches 3 and 4 should be open (refer to “Input-Conditioning
Options” on page 2-3).

● In the input-conditioning circuit for the center diagram, switch 4

should be open and switch 3 should be open if R
R

< 20 Ω, you can substitute an onboard R

S

instead of using R

as shown in Figure 4-11.

B

> 20 Ω. If

S

= 10 kΩ for RB

BIAS

Where Rs > 100 Ω
Rb = 2000 R

Where Rs < 100 Ω
Rb = 1000 R

s

s

Supply

DC

Signal

Source

Signal

Source

+

-

+

R

s

-

R

s

Bridge

R

v

R

s

R

+

-

b

R

b

Channel n High

Channel n Low

R

b

LL GND

Channel n High

Channel n Low

LL GND

Channel

High

Channel n Low

LL GND

To screw terminals
of an FWA-EXP or
to connector J5

To screw terminals
of an FWA-EXP or
to connector J5

n

To screw terminals
of an FWA-EXP or
to connector J5

Figure 4-11. Three Types of Connections for Wiring a Signal Source to an

FWA-EXP or to Connector J5

In the lower circuit of Figure 4-11, bias current return is inherently
provided by the source. The circuit requires no bias resistors. R
signal source resistance while R

is the resistance required to balance the

V

is the

S

bridge.

Connecting Signals 4-13

Avoiding Ground Loops with Differential Inputs

Very often, the signal-source ground and the EXP-1800 ground are not at
the same voltage level because of the distances between equipment wiring
and the building wiring. This difference is referred to as a common-mode
voltage (V
differential input (it appears between each side and ground). Since a
differential input responds only to the difference in the signals at its high
and low inputs, its common-mode voltages cancel out and leave only the
signal. However, if your input connections contain a ground loop, your
input could see the sum of the signal-source and common-mode voltages.
Figure 4-12 shows the proper way to connect a differential input while
Figure 4-13 illustrates the effect of a ground loop.

) because it is normally common to both sides of a

cm

Signal

Source

Signal Source

Ground V

+

E

s

-

g 1

Channel n High

Channel n Low

V

c m

R

wire

V

= V

c m

g 1

- V

LL GND

V

g 2

g 2

E

To screw terminals

s

of an FWA-EXP or
to connector J5

Do not join Low

to LL GND at the

computer

Figure 4-12. A Differential Input Configuration that Avoids a

Ground Loop

Signal

Source

Signal Source

Ground V

+

E

s

-

g 1

Channel n High

Channel n Low

V

c m

R

wire

V

= V

g 1

- V

c m

Es + V

LL GND

V

g 2

g 2

c m

To screw terminals
of an FWA-EXP or
to connector J5

NOTE

This diagram is included

only to illustrate an
incorrectly wired input; do
not use this configuration.

Figure 4-13. Differential Input Configuration with a Ground Loop

4-14 Cabling and Wiring

Your EXP-1800 is initially calibrated at the factory. You are advised to
check the calibration of your EXP-1800 every six months and to calibrate
again when necessary.

The EXP-1800 requires only a zero adjustment for calibration. The
calibration procedure uses a DAS/KPCI board to measure the output from
your EXP-1800.

This chapter describes the requirements and procedures for calibrating an
EXP-1800.

When using DAS Boards

5

Calibration

Equipment Requirements

The equipment requirements for calibrating an EXP-1800 are as follows:

DAS board

●

EXP-1800 channel-selection circuit during analog offset calibration.

●

Calibration program

the EXP-1800; CAL1800.EXE is a part of your DAS board ASO
software package. For DriveLINX, a separate calibration program is
available from our website at www.keithley.com.

Configuration program

●

a configuration file for the DAS board; this file is used by the
calibration program; CFG1800.EXE is a part of your DAS board
software package.

When using DAS Boards 5-1

- Use a DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series board to control the

- Use the CAL1800.EXE program to calibrate

- Use the CFG1800.EXE program to create

● FWA-EXP optional accessory - Attach an FWA-EXP (or

mass-termination connector) to EXP-1800 I/O connector J5.

● CDAS-2000 cable - Use a CDAS-2000 cable to connect an

EXP-1800 to a DAS board.

Potentiometer Locations

Refer to Figure 5-1 for locations of the potentiometers used in the
calibration of an EXP-1800. The calibration program, described in the
next section, directs you to these components and explains how to use
them during the calibration process.

Connector for

cable to additional

EXP-1800s

S9

J2

Power-select

slide switch

PG-408A

socket

CH 15

J1

J7

Output for +5 V

from external

supply

J4

Gain of 50

zero

adjust

Gain of 1

R13

CH 0

R14

zero

adjust

Input for +5 V from

external supply

J3

CJC

source

select

3456789

2

1

S18

Connector for

DAS/KPCI board

J6

CH14

CH13CH12

CH4 CH5 CH6 CH7

10111213141516

J5

CH15

CH11CH10CH9CH8

CH3CH2CH1CH0

cable to

Mounting
holes for
current­measuring
resistors

DIP
switches
for input­conditioning
circuits

Connector for

FWA-1800U to connect

field wiring to attached

DAS/KPCI board

Connector for

FWA-EXP to

connect field wiring

to EXP-1800 inputs

Figure 5-1. Component Locations on the EXP-1800

5-2 Calibration

Calibration Procedure (DAS boards, ASO software)

To calibrate an EXP-1800 used with your DAS board, perform the
following steps:

1. If the EXP-1800 is installed in an ENCL Series enclosure, remove the
EXP from the enclosure and attach the four standoffs.

2. On the FWA-EXP (or mass-termination connector), wire CH15 HI
and CH15 LO to GND A.

3. Set power-select switch S9 to DAS BOARD if you are using internal
power or to EXT if you using external power (refer to “Setting Up for
Power” on page 3-6).

4. Set the EXP-1800 channel-select jumper (at J2) to channel 0 for the
first EXP-1800, channel 1 for the second, and so on.

5. Select a DAS board to connect to the EXP-1800.

6. Check your DAS board for proper functioning.

7. Connect the EXP-1800 to the DAS board using a CDAS-2000 cable.

8. Run the configuration program to create a configuration file that
reflects the correct configuration of your DAS board and enables the
EXP-1800 option; to run the configuration program, change to the
directory containing CFG1800.EXE and type the following:

CFG1800

Note: In the configuration file, be sure to select an available interrupt

level (you use only interrupt mode for EXP-1800 calibration).

9. Run the calibration program using the configuration file from step 8;
to run the calibration program, change to the directory containing
CAL1800.EXE and type the following:

CAL1800

10. At the Open Configuration File panel, enter the name of the newly
created configuration file (from Step 8); then choose OK.

11. At the DAS-1800 Calibration panel, choose the EXP-1800 to
calibrate.

When using DAS Boards 5-3

12. Select the EXP-1800 button to display the EXP-1800 calibration
panel.

13. On the selected EXP-1800, adjust potentiometers R7 and R14 for a
zero count.

14. Calibration is now complete. If your EXP-1800 was in an enclosure,
remove the standoffs and return the EXP to the enclosure.

When using KPCI Boards

Equipment Requirements

● KPCI-3108 Series board

● CAB-1284CC cable

● STA-3108A1

● CACC-2000

● PG-408A DC to DC converter

● 5VDC power supply (PWR-5V)

● Installed DriverLINX for KPCI-3108 Series

● Ability to short EXP channel zero (FWA-EXP or own cable)

● Optional: 5 1/2 digit or better DMM to monitor output from

EXP-1800 at the terminals of the STA-3108A1

Configuration of DriverLINX

During normal operation of an EXP-1800 with a KPCI-3108 Series
board, the digital output lines (OP0..OP4) of the KPCI-3108 board will be
set for 'Enable EXP addressing'. For this procedure, change the
configuration to general purpose use. In the DriverLINX Configuration
Panel (Start Menu|Programs|DriverLINX|DriverLINX Configuration
Panel) configure the KPCI-3108 digital output lines (OP0...OP4) for
general purpose Output as shown in Figure 5-2.

5-4 Calibration

Figure 5-2. General Purpose Output

Additionally, the analog input channel configuration should always be set
for Single Ended mode as shown below when using EXP accessories with
plug-in boards. See Figure 5-3.

Figure 5-3. Configuration for Single Ended Mode

Reboot if necessary to allow these settings to take effect.

When using KPCI Boards 5-5

Configuration of EXP-1800

On the EXP-1800, channel select jumper (J2) to channel 0; PG-408A
installed, external 5VDC power applied, S9 switch to 'PWR SEL', the 4
position DIP switch for each channel all to OFF, apply a shorting jumper
between CH0 HI and CH0 LO on the FWA-EXP.

If you have the optional 5 1/2 digit DMM, connect it at pins 33 (+) and
18 (-) on the STA-3108A1 to monitor the value that the EXP-1800
presents to channel 0 of the KPCI-3108 Series board.

Procedure

To test the operation of your system, invoke two instances of the AIO
Panel application (Start|Programs|DriverLINX|Test Panels|AIO Panel).
Set one to the DIO tab and the other instance to the Meter tab as shown in
Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-4. Testing Panel Operation

5-6 Calibration

Position the two instances of AIOPanel side by side so that you can access
them both.

Since the channel select jumper of the EXP-1800 is on channel 0,
configure the Meter tab to display channel 0 of the KPCI-3108 board as
shown in Figure 5-4.

The gain of the EXP-1800 can be controlled by the value of OP4 on the
KPCI-3108. When OP4 is logic 1, the EXP-1800 gain of 50 is invoked.
When OP4 is logic 0, the EXP-1800 is at gain of 1. Figure 5-5 shows how
to use DIO tab of AIOPanel to select a gain of 50. Notice that the center
panel of this page has the DO channel 0 turned on and bit 4 set to a logic 1
(two green lights).

Figure 5-5. Selecting a Gain

Adjust Gain of 1 offset: Command the EXP-1800 to a gain of 1. Place a
shorting jumper between CH 0 HI and CH 0 LO on the FWA-EXP. If the
output from the EXP-1800 as seen on your DMM or on the Meter tab of
AIOPanel is not at zero volts, adjust R14.

When using KPCI Boards 5-7

Adjust Gain of 50 offset: Command the EXP-1800 to a gain of 50. Place a
shorting jumper between CH 0 HI and CH 0 LO on the FWA-EXP. If the
output from the EXP-1800 as seen on your DMM or on the Meter tab of
AIOPanel is not at zero volts, adjust R13.

Repeat these two steps one more time to minimize their interaction.

All adjustments have been made. The calibration is now finished.

Note: Other channels of the EXP-1800 can be selected by manipulating

OP0..OP3 of the KPCI-3108. These four bits can generate 16 unique
binary codes corresponding to the 16 channels of the EXP-1800. The
numeric values the bits form (0..15) correspond to the selected channel of
the EXP-1800 (0..15).

Remember to set the digital output lines (OP0..OP4) of the KPCI-3108
board to 'Enable EXP addressing' so that the DriverLINX software can
automatically control the DO lines when accessing the channels/gain of
the EXP-1800.

5-8 Calibration

This chapter describes how to respond to a problem in the operation of
your data acquisition system. If the problem appears serious enough to
warrant technical support, refer to “Technical Support” on page 6-4 for
information on how to contact an applications engineer.

Problem Isolation

Use the instructions in this section to isolate the cause of a problem before
calling Keithley for technical support. Table 6-1 lists some symptoms and
possible solutions for problems with an EXP-1800.

Table 6-1. Troubleshooting Information

6

Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution

Computer does not
boot

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

EXP-1800 appears
not to operate

Problem Isolation 6-1

The power supply of the
computer is too small to handle
all the system components.

Configuration is incorrect.

If using external power, polarity
is wrong.

The EXP-1800 is damaged.

Check the needs of all system
components and obtain a larger power
supply or use external power.

Check the configuration of your
EXP-1800 and of the DAS/KPCI board.

Polarity of center contact on external
power supply cables must be positive.

Contact the Keithley Applications
Engineering Department; see page 6-4.

Table 6-1. Troubleshooting Information (cont.)

Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution

Intermittent
operation

Data appears to be
invalid

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

Vibrations or loose connections
exist.

The EXP-1800 is overheating.

Electrical noise exists.

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

An open connection exists.

Transducer is improperly
connected to channel being read.

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

Cushion source of vibration and tighten
connections.

Check ambient temperature. See the
documentation for your computer.

Provide better shielding or reroute
unshielded wiring.

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

Check wiring to screw terminals.

Check the transducer connections.

Transducer is a differential type.

Programming for application
does not allow sufficient
multiplexer settling time.

Check transducer specifications and
board configuration.

Refer to the caution under “Multiplexer”
on page 2-4.

If your EXP-1800 is not operating properly after using the
information in Table 6-1, continue with the next two sections to
isolate the problem.

6-2 Troubleshooting

Testing the Board and Host Computer

To isolate the problem to the EXP-1800 or to the DAS/KPCI board and
host computer, use the following steps:

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

2. Turn off and disconnect any external power connections to the
EXP-1800.

Caution: Disconnecting a DAS/KPCI board or accessory with the

power on can cause damage to your accessory, your board, and/or
your computer.

3. While keeping connections to accessories intact, unplug the accessory
cable connector from the DAS/KPCI board.

4. Visually check the EXP-1800 for damage. If there is obvious damage,
refer to “Technical Support” on page 6-4 for information on returning
the board.

5. With the EXP-1800 disconnected, check the DAS/KPCI board for
proper operation. If the DAS/KPCI board does not operate properly,
refer to your board’s user’s guide for troubleshooting instructions.

If the computer and DAS/KPCI board are operating properly and you
have another EXP-1800 that is functional, you can test the input
connections using the instructions in the next section. If you do not have
another board, refer to the instructions on page 6-4 before calling Keithley
Technical Support.

Problem Isolation 6-3

Testing the Input Connections

When you are sure that the computer and DAS/KPCI board are operating
properly, test the EXP-1800 input connections using another EXP-1800
that is functional. To test the input connections, follow these steps:

1. Turn computer power off and connect an EXP-1800 accessory that is
functional. Do not make any connections to the EXP-1800 inputs.

2. Turn computer power ON and check operation with the functional
EXP-1800 in place.

3. If the EXP-1800 now functions, reconnect and check the operation of
the input connections, one at a time.

4. If operation fails for an input connection, check the input for shorts
and opens. Also determine whether the differential inputs are floating
(not referenced to LL GND or GND A with input switches 3 or 4, as
described on page 4-13).

5. If operation remains normal to this point, the problem is in the
originally attached EXP-1800.

6. If you cannot isolate the problem, refer to the next section for
instructions on obtaining assistance.

Technical Support

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

1-888-KEITHLEY

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

An applications engineer will help you diagnose and resolve your
problem over the telephone. Please make sure you have the information
on the following page available before you call.

6-4 Troubleshooting

EXP-1800 Model

Serial #
Revision code
Number of channels
Invoice/Order #

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________

DAS/KPCI board
configuration

Computer Manufacturer

Operating system DOS version

Software package Name

Model
Serial #
Revision code
Base address setting (DAS only)
Interrupt level setting
Number of channels
Input (S.E. or Diff.)
Mode (uni. or bip.)
DMA channel(s)
Number of SSH-8s
Number of EXPs.

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

Windows version
Windows mode

Serial #
Version
Invoice/Order #

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
____________________

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________

___________________
___________________
___________________

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________

Compiler
(if applicable)

Accessories Type

Technical Support 6-5

Language
Manufacturer
Version

Type
Type
Type
Type
Type
Type

___________________
___________________
___________________

___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________

If a telephone resolution is not possible, the applications engineer will
issue you a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and ask you to
return the equipment. Include the RMA number with any documentation
regarding the equipment.

When returning equipment for repair, include the following information:

● Your name, address, and telephone number.

● The invoice or original purchase order number and date of equipment

purchase.

● Non-warranty repair purchase order number.

● A description of the problem or its symptoms.

● The RMA number on the outside of the package.

Repackage the equipment using the original anti-static wrapping, if
possible, and handle it with ground protection. Ship the equipment to:

ATTN: RMA #_________

Repair Department

Keithley Instruments, Inc.

28775 Aurora Road

Cleveland, OH 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.

6-6 Troubleshooting

Specifications

Table A-1 lists specifications for the EXP-1800.

Table A-1. General Specifications

Feature Specification

Number of inputs 16 differential inputs

Amplifier

Configuration

Two selectable instrumentation amplifiers with
gains of 1 and 50

A

Gain accuracy

Relative accuracy

Input characteristics

Input offset current

Input bias current

Common Mode Rejection
Ratio for 0 Hz to 1 kHz range

Input filter response Single-pole RC @ 80 Hz ±20% (uses two 1 kΩ

±0.01% reading, typical
±0.02% reading, maximum

±0.001% reading, typical

0.6 nA maximum @ 25°C
50 nA maximum @ 0 to 70°C

1 nA maximum @ 25°C
100 nA maximum @ 0 to 70°C

90 dB @ gain = 1 typical
110 dB @ gain = 50 typical

resistors connected differentially across a 1 µF
capacitor)

A-1

Table A-1. General Specifications (cont.)

Feature Specification

Temperature coefficients

Gain

±5 ppm/˚C

Offset

Bandwidth (no filter)

Full-power bandwidth 330 kHz @ gain = 1

Noise

CJC (on screw-terminal
panel)

Output

Accuracy @ 25°C

Power requirements from a
DAS board

From ±15 V

From +5 V

External power supply
voltage

±10 µV for gain = 1, typical
±2 µV for gain = 50, typical

50 kHz @ gain = 50

rms

500 µV @ gain = 1

p-p

3 mV @ gain = 1

rms

10 µV @ gain = 50

p-p

70 µV @ gain = 50

+10 mV/˚C

±0.4°C, typical; ±1.0°C, maximum

< 30 mA

300 mA

+5 V ±10%

Note:

Refer to the DAS/KPCI board user’s guide for descriptions of the

external I/O signals available to EXP-1800 connectors J1 and J5.

A-2 Specifications

Connector Pin Assignments

This appendix contains pin assignments for I/O connectors of the DAS
boards and the EXP-1800.

Main I/O Connector for DAS Boards

Pin assignments for main I/O connectors of DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series
boards are shown in Figure B-1.

B

Notes:

1

DAS-1800ST/HR-DA and

DAS -1800AO Series boards

2

DAS-1800ST-DA Series boards only

(User-Common Mode) U_CM MD - 01

Figure B-1. Pin Assignments for Main I/O Connectors of

GND D - 25

+5V - 24
MUX 7 - 23
MUX 5 - 22
MUX 3 - 21

TRIG OUT - 20

DOSTRB - 19

DO 3 - 18
DO 1 - 17

DI 3 - 16

DI 1 - 15

GND D - 14

GND A - 13

+15 V - 12
ODAC3
ODAC2

CH07 LO/CH15 HI - 09
CH06 LO/CH14 HI - 08
CH05 LO/CH13 HI - 07
CH04 LO/CH12 HI - 06
CH03 LO/CH11 HI - 05
CH02 LO/CH10 HI - 04
CH01 LO/CH09 HI - 03
CH00 LO/CH08 HI - 02

NOTE 2
NOTE 2

- 11

- 10

DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series Boards

50 - GND D
49 - +5 V
48 - MUX 6
47 - MUX 4
46 - XTRIG
45 - SSHO
44 - XCLK
43 - DO 2
42 - DO 0
41 - DI 2
40 - DI 0
39 - GEXT
38 - GND A
37 - −15V
36 - ODAC 1
35 - ODAC 0
34 - LL GND
33 - CH07 HI
32 - CH06 HI
31 - CH05 HI
30 - CH04 HI
29 - CH03 HI
28 - CH02 HI
27 - CH01 HI
26 - CH00 HI

NOTE 1
NOTE 1

Main I/O Connector for DAS Boards B-1

I/O Connectors of the EXP-1800

The following diagrams show pin assignments for I/O connectors of
the EXP-1800.

GND D

+5 V
MUX 7
MUX 5

NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC

NC
GND D
GND A

+15 V_DAS

NC

NC

CH15 HI
CH14 HI
CH13 HI
CH12 HI
CH11 HI
CH10 HI
CH09 HI
CH08 HI

NC

49
47
45
43
41
39
37
35
33
31
29
27
25
23
21
19
17
15
13
11
9
7
5
3
1

50
48
46
44
42
40
38
36
34
32
30
28
26
24
22
20
18
16
14
12
10

8
6
4
2

GND D
+5 V
MUX 6
MUX 4
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
GEXT
GND A

−15 V_DAS
NC
NC
LL GND
CH07 HI
CH 06 HI
CH05 HI
CH04 HI
CH03 HI
CH02 HI
CH01 HI
CH00 HI

Figure B-2. Pin Assignments for Connectors J6 and J7

of the EXP-1800

Note: Connectors J6 and J7 mate with 3M part number 3425-6050 if you

prefer to construct your own ribbon cables.

B-2 Connector Pin Assignments

GND D

+5 V
MUX 5
MUX 3

DOSTRB

DO 3

DI 3
DI 1

GND A

+15 V_DAS

ODAC 2
CH07LO/CH15HI
CH05LO/CH13HI
CH04LO/CH12HI
CH02LO/CH10HI

CH01LO/CH09 HI

USER_COM_MODE

1

17

50

33

16

49

32

15

48

31

14

47

30

13

46

29

12

45

28

11

44

27

10

43

26

9

42

25

8

41

24

7

40

23

6

39

22

5

38

21

4

37

20

3

36

19

2

35

18

1

34

51 52

+5 V
MUX 7
XTRIG

TRIG OUT
DO 2
DO 1
DI 0
GND D

−15 V_DAS
ODAC31
LL GND
CH06LO/CH14HI
CH05HI
CH03LO/CH11HI

CH02HI

CH00LO/CH08HI

GND D
MUX 6
MUX 4
SSHO
XCLK
DO 0
DI 2
GEXT
GND A
ODAC 1
ODAC 0
CH07HI
CH06HI
CH04HI
CH03HI
CH01HI
CH00HI

Note:

1

DAS-1800ST-DA Series boards only

Figure B-3. Pin Assignments for Connector J1 of the EXP-1800

I/O Connectors of the EXP-1800 B-3

CH GND

CH14HI

GND A

CH12HI

LL GND

CH10HI

CH10LO

GND A

CH08LO

EXP_CJC

CH06LO

GND A

CH04LO

CH02HI
CH02LO
CH00LO
CH GND

17

50

33

16

49

32

15

48

31

14

47

30

13

46

29

12

45

28

11

44

27

10

43

26

9

42

25

8

41

24

7

40

23

6

39

22

5

38

21

4

37

20

3

36

19

2

35

18

1

34

51 52

GND A
CH14LO
LL GND

CH12LO
GND A
CH11LO
CH09LO
CH08HI

CH07LO
CH06HI
CH05HI
CH04HI
CH03HI
GND A
CH00HI
GND A

CH GND
CH15HI
CH15LO
CH13HI
CH13LO
CH11HI
CH09HI
LL GND
CH07HI
+5 V
GND A
LL GND
CH05LO
CH03LO
CH01HI
CH01LO
CH GND

Figure B-4. Pin Assignments for Connector J5 of the EXP-1800

B-4 Connector Pin Assignments

C

Channel Numbers for Software

This appendix describes the assignment of channel numbers for a DAS
board and all attached EXP-1800s for use in software such as the Control
Panel utility and the Function Call Driver.

The DAS boards are programmable for either 16 single-ended analog
inputs (numbered 0 through 15) or eight differential analog inputs
(numbered 0 through 7). When used with an EXP-1800, the DAS board
inputs should be configured as single-ended. If you require more than the
16 single-ended onboard inputs, you can use up to 16 EXP-1800s to
increase the number of available inputs to 256.

C-1

When using DAS Boards with ASO Software

EXP-1800s are assigned to consecutive onboard analog input channels,
beginning with onboard channel 0. Table C-1 lists the software (or
logical) channels associated with each EXP-1800.

Table C-1. Channel Numbers in Maximum EXP-1800

Configuration

Onboard Channel

0 0 to 15

1 16 to 31

2 32 to 47

3 48 to 63

4 64 to 79

5 80 to 95

6 96 to 111

7 112 to 127

8 128 to 143

9 144 to 159

10 160 to 175

11 176 to 191

12 192 to 207

13 208 to 223

EXP-1800 Software
(Logical) Channels

14 224 to 239

15 240 to 255

C-2 Channel Numbers for Software

Figure C-1 illustrates the use of three EXP-1800s and the 13 remaining
onboard channels on a DAS board configured for single-ended mode. In
software such as the Control Panel utility, you refer to the physical
channels on the EXP-1800 attached to analog input channel 0 as logical
channels 0 to 15, the physical channels on the EXP-1800 attached to
analog input channel 1 as logical channels 16 to 31, and the physical
channels on the EXP-1800 attached to analog input channel 2 as logical
channels 32 to 47. You refer to the remaining 13 onboard analog input
channels (physical channels 3 through 15) in software as logical channels
48 through 60.

EXP-1800

channels

0 to 15

EXP-1800

channels

16 to 31

EXP-1800

channels

32 to 47

DAS Board

15

0
1
2
3
.
.
.

Onboard
channels
48 to 60

Figure C-1. Analog Input Channels

When using DAS Boards with ASO Software C-3

When using DriverLINX Software (DAS or KPCI Boards)

The DAS-1800 Series boards can make use of the older ASO software
drivers for operation in Win3.x or Win9x. For operation of DAS-1800
Series boards in WinNT, Win2000 or WinXP, the DriverLINX Driver is
required. The KPCI-3108 Series board uses DriverLINX.

The channel numbers assigned to the EXP are different under ASO than
they are under DriverLINX.

Table C-1 and Figure C-1 describe the channel assignments when using
ASO drivers.

When using DriverLINX, the board’s single ended channels are always
channels 0 through 15. An EXP can be used with any of the channels; it is
not required to begin at channel 0 and increase consecutively for each
additional EXP added. Figure C-2 shows the EXP channel assignments
(for all boards) when using DriverLINX.

EXP-1800

channels

16 to 31

EXP-1800

channels

32 to 47

EXP-1800

channels

48 to 63

DAS or KPCI
Board

15

0
1
2
3
.
.
.

Onboard
channels
64 to 271

Figure C-2. Analog Input Channels when Using DriverLINX Driver

C-4 Channel Numbers for Software

Numerics

4-to-20 mA current measuring 3-5

A

accessory

CAB-50 cable 1-3
CAB-PWR cable 1-3
CDAS-2000 5-2
CDAS-2000 cable 1-3
ENCL Series enclosure 1-3, 4-6
FWA-1800U field wiring

accessory 1-3, 4-10

FWA-EXP field wiring

accessory 1-3, 4-8, 5-2
PG-408A 2-8
PG-408A DC/DC converter 1-3
PWR-5V external power supply 1-3

amplifier, instrumentation 2-5
analog power ground (GND A) 2-3
anti-static wrapper 3-1
Applications Engineer 6-4
avoiding ground loops 4-14

B

bias return, low-side 2-4
block diagram 2-1

calibration 5-1
Calibration Procedure (DAS boards, ASO

software) 5-3
CH GND (chassis ground) 2-3
channel-gain control 2-4, 2-5
channels, logical C-2
channel-select jumper 3-5
CJC

circuit 2-7, 4-8

select switch 3-6, 4-8
common-mode voltages 4-14
conditioning circuitry 2-3
configuration file, creating 5-3
Configuration of DriverLINX 5-4
Configuration of EXP-1800 5-6
connecting

an FWA-1800U 4-10

an FWA-EXP 4-8

differential inputs 4-12

multiple EXP-1800s 4-3, 4-6

signals 4-11

to a DAS board 4-1
Connecting to a KPCI-3108 Series Board 4-2
connector

DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series main

I/O B-1
J1 of the EXP-1800 B-3
J5 of the EXP-1800 B-4
J6 and J7 of EXP-1800 B-2

current measuring, 4-to-20 mA 2-4, 3-5

C

cable

CAB-50 1-3, 4-6
CAB-50/1 4-3, 4-6, 4-7
CAB-PWR 1-3, 4-7
CAB-PWR/1 4-4, 4-7
CDAS-2000 1-3, 4-1, 4-6, 4-7, 5-2

cabling and wiring 4-1

D

DC/DC converter 1-3, 2-8, 3-6, 3-7
desktop enclosure 1-3
detection, open-thermocouple 2-4
diagram, block 2-1
digital 2-3

ground (GND D) 2-3

DIP switch 3-3

X-1

E

L

ENCL Series enclosure 1-3, 3-8
enclosure, desktop 1-3
enclosure, ENCL Series 3-8
Equipment Requirements 5-4
equipment requirements, calibration 5-1

F

filtering 2-4
FWA 3-6
FWA-1800U accessory 1-3
FWA-EXP accessory 1-3

G

gain 2-5
GEXT gain control line 2-5
GND A (analog power ground) 2-3
GND D (digital ground) 2-3
ground

CH GND 2-3
GND A 2-3
GND D 2-3
LL GND 2-3

wrist strap 3-1
ground connect, low-side 2-4
ground loops, avoiding 4-14
ground selection 3-4
ground types 2-3

I

input-conditioning options 2-3
inspecting your EXP-1800 3-1
installing

in a desktop enclosure 3-8

PG-408A DC/DC converter 3-7
instrumentation amplifier 2-5

LL GND (low level ground) 2-3
locating setup components 3-2
logical channels C-2
low level ground (LLGND) 2-3
low-pass filter 2-4
low-side

bias return 2-4
ground connect 2-4

M

mounting holes, current resistor 2-4
multiple EXP-1800s

in a desktop enclosure 4-6

on standoffs 4-3
multiplexer 2-4
multiplexer control lines 4-3, 4-6
mux control lines 2-4

O

open-thermocouple detection 2-4, 3-4

P

PG-408A

accessory 1-3, 2-8, 3-6

installation 3-7
pin assignments

DAS-1800ST/HR/AO Series boards B-1

EXP-1800 I/O B-2

J1 of the EXP-1800 B-3

J5 of the EXP-1800 B-4

J6 and J7 of EXP-1800 B-2
positioning the channel-select jumper 3-5
potentiometers 5-2
power 3-6

X-2 Index

power cable polarity 4-4, 4-7
power connections

parallel 4-5, 4-7

series 4-5, 4-7
precautions 4-11
problem isolation 6-1
procedure, calibration 5-3
program

calibration 5-1

configuration 5-1
PWR-5V accessory 1-3

Q

QRAM output line 2-4, 2-5

signal filtering 3-4
signals, connecting 4-11
specifications, general A-1
strain relief 4-9, 4-10
switch

CJC-select 3-6
input-conditioning circuits 3-3, 3-4
power-select 3-6

T

technical support 6-4
troubleshooting 6-1

U

R

relay for external power 2-8
resistors, bias return 4-12
returning equipment 6-6
RMA number 6-6

S

setting

the CJC-select switch 3-6

the input-conditioning options 3-3
setting up for power 3-6
setup 3-2

external power 3-6, 4-3, 4-7

internal power 3-6

unwrapping your EXP-1800 3-1

W

warranty repairs 6-6
When using DAS Boards 5-1
When using DAS Boards with

ASO Software C-2

When using DriverLINX Software

(DAS or KPCI Boards) C-4
When using KPCI Boards 5-4
wrapper, anti-static 3-1
wrist strap 3-1

X-3

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

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]

© Copyright 2001 Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Printed in the U.S.A.

4/02