Tektronix VX4237 User Manual
User Manual
VX4237
Digital Multimeter Module
070-9075-02
This document supports firmware version 1.00
Warning
The servicing instructions are for use by qualified
personnel only. To avoid personal injury, do not
perform any servicing unless you are qualified to
do so. Refer to the Safety Summary prior to
performing service.
Copyright T ektronix, Inc. 1994. All rights reserved. Licensed software products are owned by Tektronix or its suppliers
and are protected by United States copyright laws and international treaty provisions.
Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the
Rights in T echnical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013, or subparagraphs (c)(1) and (2) of the
Commercial Computer Software – Restricted Rights clause at F AR 52.227-19, as applicable.
T ektronix products are covered by U.S. and foreign patents, issued and pending. Information in this publication supercedes
that in all previously published material. Specifications and price change privileges reserved.
Printed in the U.S.A.
T ektronix, Inc., P.O. Box 1000, Wilsonville, OR 97070–1000
TEKTRONIX and TEK are registered trademarks of T ektronix, Inc.
WARRANTY
T ektronix warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three (3) years
from the date of shipment. If any such product proves defective during this warranty period, T ektronix, at its option, either
will repair the defective product without charge for parts and labor, or will provide a replacement in exchange for the
defective product.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Tektronix of the defect before the expiration of the
warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance of service. Customer shall be responsible for
packaging and shipping the defective product to the service center designated by T ektronix, with shipping charges prepaid.
T ektronix shall pay for the return of the product to Customer if the shipment is to a location within the country in which the
T ektronix service center is located. Customer shall be responsible for paying all shipping charges, duties, taxes, and any
other charges for products returned to any other locations.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care. T ektronix shall not be obligated to furnish service under this warranty a) to repair damage resulting
from attempts by personnel other than T ektronix representatives to install, repair or service the product; b) to repair
damage resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible equipment; or c) to service a product that has been
modified or integrated with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the time or
difficulty of servicing the product.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY TEKTRONIX WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
TEKTRONIX’ RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUST OMER FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. TEKTRONIX
AND ITS VENDORS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT , SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER TEKTRONIX OR THE VENDOR HAS
ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Contacting Tektronix
Product
Support
Service
Support
For other
information
To write us Tektronix, Inc.
For application-oriented questions about a Tektronix measurement product, call toll free in North America:
1-800-TEK-WIDE (1-800-835-9433 ext. 2400)
6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific time
Or contact us by e-mail:
tm_app_supp@tek.com
For product support outside of North America, contact your
local Tektronix distributor or sales office.
Contact your local Tektronix distributor or sales office. Or visit
our web site for a listing of worldwide service locations.
http://www.tek.com
In North America:
1-800-TEK-WIDE (1-800-835-9433)
An operator will direct your call.
P.O. Box 1000
Wilsonville, OR 97070-1000
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Table of Contents
Getting Started
Operating Basics
General Safety Summary iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service Safety Summary v. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preface vii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conventions vii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related Publications vii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product Description 1–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories 1–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls And Indicators 1–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuration 1–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 1–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation Checklist 1–8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Functional Check 1–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Functional Overview 2–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating Status 2–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power-on 2–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument I/O – VXIbus Basics 2–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Level Interface 2–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trigger Combinations 2–7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Syntax and Commands
Status and Events
Command Syntax 3–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Functional Command Groups 3–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCPI Commands 3–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Native Language Commands 3–7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IEEE-488.2 Common Commands 3–8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCPI Commands 3–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Native Language Commands 3–69. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IEEE 488.2 Common Commands 3–97. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Message Exchange 4–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retrieval of Device Status Information 4–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standard-Defined Features 4–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VX4237 Status Reporting – Detail 4–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCPI Additional Status Reporting 4–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCPI Error Codes and Messages 4–12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Device-Dependent Error Messages 4–13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
i
Table of Contents
Appendices
Glossary
Appendix A: Specifications A–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix B: Rear-Panel Connections B–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix C: *RST Condition C–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix D: Performance Verification D–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
User Uncertainty Calculations D–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Verification Work Sheets D–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparation D–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DC Voltage Check D–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AC Voltage Check D–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AC Linearity Check D–8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resistance Check D–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix E: User Service E–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
User-Replaceable Parts E–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustment E–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustment Procedure E–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ii
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
General Safety Summary
Review the following safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent damage to
this product or any products connected to it. To avoid potential hazards, use this
product only as specified.
Only qualified personnel should perform service procedures.
While using this product, you may need to access other parts of the system. Read
the General Safety Summary in other system manuals for warnings and cautions
related to operating the system.
To Avoid Fire or
Personal Injury
Connect and Disconnect Properly . Do not connect or disconnect probes or test
leads while they are connected to a voltage source.
Ground the Product. This product is indirectly grounded through the grounding
conductor of the mainframe power cord. To avoid electric shock, the grounding
conductor must be connected to earth ground. Before making connections to the
input or output terminals of the product, ensure that the product is properly
grounded.
Observe All Terminal Ratings. To avoid fire or shock hazard, observe all ratings
and markings on the product. Consult the product manual for further ratings
information before making connections to the product.
Do not apply a potential to any terminal, including the common terminal, that
exceeds the maximum rating of that terminal.
Do Not Operate Without Covers. Do not operate this product with covers or panels
removed.
Use Proper Fuse. Use only the fuse type and rating specified for this product.
Avoid Exposed Circuitry. Do not touch exposed connections and components
when power is present.
Do Not Operate With Suspected Failures. If you suspect there is damage to this
product, have it inspected by qualified service personnel.
Do Not Operate in Wet/Damp Conditions.
Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere.
Keep Product Surfaces Clean and Dry .
Provide Proper Ventilation. Refer to the manual’s installation instructions for
details on installing the product so it has proper ventilation.
Symbols and Terms
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
T erms in this Manual. These terms may appear in this manual:
iii
General Safety Summary
WARNING. Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could result
in injury or loss of life.
CAUTION. Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result in
damage to this product or other property.
T erms on the Product. These terms may appear on the product:
DANGER indicates an injury hazard immediately accessible as you read the
marking.
WARNING indicates an injury hazard not immediately accessible as you read the
marking.
CAUTION indicates a hazard to property including the product.
Symbols on the Product. The following symbols may appear on the product:
WARNING
High Voltage
Protective Ground
(Earth) T erminal
CAUTION
Refer to Manual
Double
Insulated
iv
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Service Safety Summary
Only qualified personnel should perform service procedures. Read this Service
Safety Summary and the General Safety Summary before performing any service
procedures.
Do Not Service Alone. Do not perform internal service or adjustments of this
product unless another person capable of rendering first aid and resuscitation is
present.
Disconnect Power. To avoid electric shock, disconnect the mains power by means
of the power cord or, if provided, the power switch.
Use Care When Servicing With Power On. Dangerous voltages or currents may
exist in this product. Disconnect power, remove battery (if applicable), and
disconnect test leads before removing protective panels, soldering, or replacing
components.
To avoid electric shock, do not touch exposed connections.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
v
Service Safety Summary
vi
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Preface
Conventions
This is the user manual for the VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module.
Please read and follow all instructions for installation and configuration. Use the
Installation Checklist to insure proper installation, and as a record of initial
settings.
This manual assumes you are familiar with VXIbus instruments and operation,
and with the purpose and function of this instrument. The Operating Basics
section gives a summary of VXIbus operation, and presents an overview of this
instrument’s operation.
The Syntax and Commands section has a summary of all the commands, and
detailed descriptions of each command.
The names of all switches, controls, and indicators appear in this manual exactly
as they appear on the instrument.
Related Publications
Specific conventions for programming are given in the section Syntax and
Commands.
This manual uses the following notational conventions:
H An asterisk (*) following a signal mnemonic denotes that the signal is active
when in the low state (typically, 0 V).
H A signal mnemonic without a following asterisk (*) denotes that the signal is
active when in the high state (typically, 2.8 – 5 V).
Regarding the base of a number:
H Unless otherwise noted, all numbers are assumed to be decimal (base 10).
The following documents on related subjects may be useful in making efficient
use of the module:
VXIbus System Specification, Version 1.4
ANSI/IEEE Std. 1014–1987, IEEE Standard for a Versatile Backplane Bus: VME
Bus
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
vii
Preface
viii
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Getting Started
Getting Started
Product Description
The VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module is a printed circuit board assembly for
use in a mainframe conforming to the VXIbus Specification. The VX4237 is a
fully compatible VXIbus C-size Digital Multimeter (DMM) that has the
following measurement capabilities and features:
H Five DC voltage ranges from 200 mV – 300 V with 100 nV resolution
H Five AC voltage ranges from 200 mV – 300 V with 1 V resolution
H Six resistance ranges from 200 – 20 M with 100 resolution
H AC and DC current 1000 mA range
H Selectable 4.5 – 6.5 digit resolution
H External trigger with delay
H Programmable external calibration
The VX4237 is a message-based device using A16 addressing.
BITE (Built-In Test
Accessories
Equipment)
Standard
Optional
Built In Test Equipment is provided by extensive self tests that are automatically
invoked on power-up, and may also be invoked on command. Circuitry tested
includes the CPU and all memory, and the DMM circuitry. The front panel LEDs
provide visual BITE for module operation.
Standard accessories to the VX4237 are the VX4237 Digital Multimeter User
Manual and Reference Manual.
An optional input lead (for the 15-pin front panel connector) is available from
Tektronix by ordering part number 012-1391-00.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
1–1
Getting Started
Top Cover
Controls And Indicators
Switches
Front
Panel
Logical Address Switch Access
LSB MSB
0
1
Figure 1–1: VX4237 Controls and Indicators
The following controls and indicators are provided to select and display the
functions of the VX4237 Module’s operating environment. See Figures 1 and 2
for their physical locations.
The Local Address switch must be correctly set to insure proper operation. See
Configuration for details of how to set the switches.
1–2
LEDs
The following LEDs are visible at the top of the VX4237 Module’s front panel to
indicate the status of the module’s operation. See Operating Basics for a
description of each LED’s meaning.
Fail LED
Ready LED
Trig LED
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Getting Started
Configuration
Logical Address Switch
Figure 1–2: VX4237 Front Panel
The Logical Address Switch must be correctly set to insure proper operation.
Refer to Figure 1–1 for the physical location.
Each function module in a VXIbus System must be assigned a unique logical
address, from 1 to 255 decimal. The base VMEbus address of the VX4237 is set
to a value between 1 and 255 by an 8-way DIL switch, accessible through a hole
in the top cover.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
1–3
Getting Started
Figure 1–3: Logical Address Switch Set To Logical Address 6
The switch contacts are labelled 1 through 8, corresponding to the eight bits of
the logical address value (8 MSB; 1 LSB). One side of the switch bank is
labelled OPEN; this represents address bits at logic 1. Setting a switch to the
CLOSED position sets its address bit to logic 0.
The address can be set to any value between 1 and 255 (address 0 is reserved for
the Resource Manager).
The VX4237 fully supports Dynamic Configuration as defined in Section F of
the VXI Specification. Address 255 should be selected only if the Resource
Manager also supports Dynamic Configuration.
Line Frequency
Backplane Jumpers
IEEE-488 Address. Using the VX4237 Module in an IEEE-488 environment
requires knowing the module’s IEEE-488 address in order to program it.
Different manufacturers of IEEE-488 interface devices may have different
algorithms for equating a logical address with an IEEE-488 address. Consult the
operating manual of the IEEE-488 Interface Module being used.
Using the LINE command, you can set the VX4237 for best accuracy by
matching it to the specific line frequency used in your application. Refer to the
Native Command Language sub-section for further information.
NOTE. The following instructions pertain to Tektronix Mainframes. If you are
installing the DMM in a different mainframe, refer to the Instruction Manual for
that mainframe for the correct jumper strap numbers.
VXIbus mainframes contain daisy-chain jumper straps for the Bus Grant (BG0 –
BG3) and Interrupt Acknowledge (IACK) signals. Tektronix Mainframes are
shipped with all jumpers installed. All jumper straps must be removed for slots
that have cards installed.
1–4
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Getting Started
NOTE. If you are using a Tektronix Mainframe, the names of the jumper straps
(BG0 through BG3 IACK) are printed on the circuit board facing the front of the
mainframe. These jumpers are accessed from the front of the mainframe.
Remove all jumper straps to the immediate left of the slot in which the DMM
will be installed. Retain the straps for possible future reconfiguration.
Bus Grant Jumper Straps
Slot
1 J101 1 J1012 J1013 J1014
2 J1021 J1022 J1023 J1024
3 J1026 J1027 J1028 J1029
4 J1031 J1032 J1033 J1034
5 J1036 J1037 J1038 J1039
6 J1041 J1042 J1043 J1044
7 J1046 J1047 J1048 J1049
8 J1051 J1052 J1053 J1054
9 J1056 J1057 J1058 J1059
10 J1061 J1062 J1063 J1064
11 J1066 J1067 J1068 J1069
12 J1071 J1072 J1073 J1074
Interrupt Acknowledge Jumper Straps
Slot
0 J2010 6 J2040
BG0 BG1 BG2 BG3
IACK Connector Slot IACK Connector
1 J2015 7 J2045
2 J2020 8 J2050
9 J2055 10 J2060
3 J2025 11 J2065
4 J2030 12 J2070
5 J2035
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
1–5
Getting Started
Front Panel Connectors
There are two front panel connectors: a coaxial BNC external trigger input, and a
D-type 15-pin analog input. The pinout for the analog input is shown in
Figure 1–4.
J351 Analog Input Plug
Pin layout and configuration
1
9
Hi
I+
Lo
I–
Guard
15
8
Figure 1–4: Analog Input Connector
Installation
Requirements and
Cautions
The VX4237 Module is a C size VXIbus instrument module and therefore may
be installed in any C or D size VXIbus mainframe slot other than slot 0. If the
module is being installed in a D size mainframe, consult the operating manual
for the mainframe to determine how to install the module in that particular
mainframe. Setting the module’s Logical Address switch defines the module’s
programming address. Refer to Configuration for information on selecting and
setting the module’s logical address. To avoid confusion, it is recommended that
the slot number and the logical address be the same.
A slotted screwdriver is required for proper installation.
WARNING. To avoid electric shock, tighten the module mounting screws after
installing the module into the mainframe to ensure that the front panel is
properly grounded.
1–6
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Getting Started
NOTE. There are two printed ejector handles on the card. To avoid installing the
card incorrectly, make sure the ejector marked “VX4237” is at the top.
In order to maintain proper mainframe cooling, unused mainframe slots must be
covered with the blank front panels supplied with the mainframe.
Based on the number of instrument modules ordered with a Tektronix mainframe, blank front panels are supplied to cover all unused slots. Additional
VXIbus C size single-slot and C size double-slot blank front panels can be
ordered from your Tektronix supplier.
NOTE. Verify that the mainframe is able to provide adequate cooling and power
with this module installed. Refer to the mainframe Operating Manual for
instructions.
If the VX4237 is used in a Tektronix Mainframe, all VX4237 cooling requirements will be met.
Installation Procedure
NOTE. If the VX4237 Module is inserted in a slot with any empty slots to the left
of the module, the VME daisy-chain jumpers must be installed on the backplane
in order for the VXI Module to operate properly. Check the manual of the
mainframe being used for jumpering instructions.
CAUTION. The VX4237 Module is a piece of electronic equipment and therefore
has some susceptibility to electrostatic damage (ESD). ESD precautions must be
taken whenever the module is handled.
1. Record the revision level, serial number (located on the label on the top
shield of the VX4237), and switch settings on the Installation Checklist.
2. Verify that the switches are switched to the correct values.
3. Make sure power is off in the mainframe.
4. The module can now be inserted into one of the instrument slots of the
mainframe.
5. Cable Installation: Use the correct cable to interface between the module I/O
connector and the Unit Under Test (UUT). The recommended cable is listed
in Specifications.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
1–7
Getting Started
Installation Checklist
Installation parameters will vary depending on the mainframe being used. Be
sure to consult the mainframe Operating Manual before installing and operating
the module.
Revision Level:
Serial No.:
Mainframe Slot Number:
Switch Settings:
VXIbus Logical Address Switch:
(FFh enables dynamic configuration.)
Interrupt Level Select Switch: Dynamically programmed by the Resource
Manager.
Cables Installed: (if any)
1–8
Performed by: _______________________ Date: _____________
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Functional Check
Getting Started
The VX4237 Module will execute a self test at power-on, or on direction of a
VXIbus hard or soft reset condition, or on command. The power-on self test
consists of an interface self test and an instrument self test. The commanded self
test performs only the instrument self test. A VXIbus hard reset occurs when
another device, such as the VXIbus Resource Manager, asserts the backplane line
SYSRST*. A VXIbus soft reset occurs when another device, such as the
VX4237’s commander, sets the Reset bit in the VX4237’s Control register.
At power-on, as well as during self test, all module outputs remain isolated from
the module’s front panel connector.
During power-on, or a hard or soft reset, the following actions take place:
1. The SYSFAIL* (VME system-failure) line is set active, indicating that the
module is executing a self test, and the Failed LED is on. In the case of a
soft reset, SYSFAIL* is set. However, all Tektronix/CDS commanders will
simultaneously set SYSFAIL INHIBIT. This is done to prevent the resource
manager from prematurely reporting the failure of a card.
2. On completion of the interface self test, SYSFAIL* is de-asserted. If the test
fails, the SYSFAIL* line remains active. If the interface self test passed, the
SYSFAIL* line is released, and the module enters the VXIbus PASSED state
(ready for normal operation). If it failed, the module enters the VXIbus
FAILED state.
3. The instrument self test, as described in the IEEE 488.2 *TST? command, is
then executed. If the self test fails, the module makes an internal record of
what failure(s) occurred.
The default condition of the VX4237 Module after the completion of power-on
self test is as follows:
DC voltage mode
300 V range
6.5 digit resolution
filter OFF
INPUT OFF (no input on either channel)
GUARD LCL (4-wire connection internal grounding)
TSRCE SYS (internal trigger source)
DELAY DFLT (default time delays)
Self test can also be run at any time during normal operation by using the *TST?
command. At the end of a self test initiated by this command, the module is
restored to its pre-test state.
During a commanded self test:
H SYSFAIL* is not asserted.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
1–9
Getting Started
H The module executes the same instrument self test as in the power-on case.
H When the self test is completed, the module sets itself to the power-on state.
SYSFAIL* Operation
SYSFAIL* becomes active during power-on, hard or soft reset, self test, or if the
module loses any of its power voltages. When the mainframe Resource Manager
detects SYSFAIL* set, it will attempt to inhibit the line. This will cause the
VX4237 Module to deactivate SYSFAIL* in all cases except when +5 V power
is lost.
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VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
Operating Basics
Operating Basics
Functional Overview
The VX4237 Module is programmed by ASCII characters issued from the
system controller to the VX4237 Module via the module’s VXIbus commander
and the VXIbus mainframe backplane. The module is a VXIbus Message Based
Device and communicates using the VXIbus Word Serial Protocol. Refer to the
manual for the VXIbus device that will be the VX4237 Module’s commander for
details on the operation of that device.
If the module’s commander is a Tektronix/CDS Resource Manager/IEEE-488
Interface Module, refer to that Operating Manual and the programming examples
in this manual for information on how the system controller communicates with
the commander being used.
The VX4237 is a fully compatible VXIbus C-size Digital Multimeter (DMM)
that has the following measurement capabilities and features:
H Five DC voltage ranges from 200 mV – 300 V with 100 nV resolution
H Five AC voltage ranges from 200 mV – 300 V with 1 V resolution
Operating Status
Ready LED
Fail LED
H Six resistance ranges from 200 – 20 M with 100 resolution
H Selectable 4.5 – 6.5 digit resolution
H External trigger with delay
H Programmable external calibration
You can determine the module’s current operating status from the LEDs on the
front panel.
This green LED is normally on and is off if the +5 V power supply fails or if the
+5 V fuse blows.
This normally off red LED is on whenever SYSFAIL* is asserted, indicating a
module failure. Module failures include failure to correctly complete an interface
self test, loss of a power rail, or failure of the module’s central processor.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
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Operating Basics
If the module loses any of its power voltages, the Failed LED will go on and
SYSFAIL* will be asserted. A module power failure is indicated when the
module’s Ready LED is extinguished.
Trig LED
The TRIG light is turned on when the VX4237 is triggered to make a measurement.
Power-on
The VX4237 Module will complete its self test and be ready for programming
five seconds after power-on. The VXIbus Resource Manager may add an
additional one or two second delay. The Power LED will be on, and all other
LEDs off. The MSG LED will blink during the power-on sequence as the
VXIbus Resource Manager addresses all modules in the mainframe. The default
condition of the module after power-on is described in Functional Check.
When power is applied to the VX4237, all functions are forced to a safety default
state. Once a function is configured to a desired state, it remains in that state
until changed or the power is removed.
The *LRN? command can be used to query the VX4237 for its current settings.
More information on this command is provided in the Command Description
sub-section.
Instrument I/O – VXIbus Basics
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NOTE. If the user’s mainframe has other manufacturer’s computer boards
operating in the role of VXIbus foreign devices, the assertion of BERR* (as
defined by the VXIbus Specification) may cause operating problems on these
boards.
The VX4237 Module is a C size single slot VXIbus Message-Based Word Serial
instrument. It uses the A16, D16 VME interface available on the backplane P1
connector and does not require any A24 or A32 address space. The module is a
D16 interrupter.
The VX4237 Module is neither a VXIbus commander or VMEbus master, and
therefore it does not have a VXIbus Signal register. The VX4237 is a VXIbus
message based servant.
The module supports the Normal Transfer Mode of the VXIbus, using the Write
Ready, Read Ready, Data In Ready (DIR), and Data Out Ready (DOR) bits of
the module’s Response register.
VX4237 Digital Multimeter Module User Manual
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