Teledyne PXA125 User Manual
User Manual
PXA125
125 MS/s
ARBITRARY WAVEFORM GENERATOR
Publication No. 010520
PUBLICATION DATE: June, 2002
REVISION: 1.1
Copyright 2002 by LeCroy. All rights reserved. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form
without written permission of the publisher.
WARRANTY STATEMENT
Products sold by LeCroy are warranted to be free from defects in workmanship or materials. LeCroy will, at its
option, either repair or replace any hardware products, which prove to be defective during the warranty
period. You are a valued customer. Our mission is to make any necessary repairs in a reliable and timely
manner.
Duration of Warranty
The warranty period for this LeCroy hardware is one year, except software and firmware products designed
for use with LeCroy Hardware is warranted not to fail to execute its programming instructions due to defect in
materials or workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of delivery to the initial end user.
Return of Product
Authorization is required from LeCroy before you send your product for service or calibration. Call your
nearest LeCroy support facility. A list is located on the last page of this manual. If you are unsure where to
call, contact LeCroy Customer Support Department.
Limitation of Warranty
LeCroy shall be released from all obligations under this warranty in the event repairs or modifications are
made by persons other than authorized LeCroy service personnel or without the written consent of LeCroy.
LeCroy expressly disclaims any liability to its customers, dealers and representatives and to users of its
product, and to any other person or persons, for special or consequential damages of any kind and from any
cause whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the manufacture, sale, handling, repair,
maintenance, replacement or use of said products.
Representations and warranties made by any person including dealers and representatives of LeCroy, which
are inconsistent or in conflict with the terms of this warranty (including but not limited to the limitations of the
liability of LeCroy as set forth above), shall not be binding upon LeCroy unless reduced to writing and
approved by an officer of LeCroy
Except as stated above, LeCroy makes no warranty, express or implied (either in fact or by operation of law),
statutory or otherwise; and except to the extent stated above, LeCroy shall have no liability under any
warranty, express or implied (either in fact or by operation of law), statutory or otherwise.
PROPRIETARY NOTICE
This document and the technical data herein disclosed, are proprietary to LeCroy, and shall not, without express written
permission of LeCroy, be used, in whole or in part to solicit quotations from a competitive source or used for manufacture
by anyone other than LeCroy. The information herein has been developed at private expense, and may only be used for
operation and maintenance reference purposes or for purposes of engineering evaluation and incorporation into technical
specifications and other documents, which specify procurement of products from LeCroy.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 - PORTRAYAL
What’s in This Chapter...................................................................................................1-1
Introduction....... .............................................................................................................1-1
Conventions used in this Manual .............................................................................1-1
PXA125 Series Feature highlights .................................................................................1-2
ArbConnection Feature highlights..................................................................................1-3
Functional Description....................................................................................................1-6
Output Function.....................................................................................................1-6
Frequency .............................................................................................................1-6
Amplitude. .............................................................................................................1-6
Trigger Modes .......................................................................................................1-6
Arbitrary Waveforms..............................................................................................1-6
Memory Segmentation ..........................................................................................1-7
Remote Control .....................................................................................................1-7
Frequency Agility...................................................................................................1-7
Multi instrument Synchronization...........................................................................1-7
Supplied Accessories.....................................................................................................1-8
Specifications ... .............................................................................................................1-8
Functional Description....................................................................................................1-8
Front Panel Connectors .................................................................................................1-8
Output...... .............................................................................................................1-8
SYNC output..........................................................................................................1-8
TRIG/FSK IN .........................................................................................................1-8
SINE OUT .............................................................................................................1-9
REF IN..... .............................................................................................................1-9
Operating Modes............................................................................................................1-9
Continuous Mode ..................................................................................................1-9
Triggered Mode ...................................................................................................1-10
Gated mode.........................................................................................................1-10
Burst mode ..........................................................................................................1-10
Frequency Agility..........................................................................................................1-10
Sweep...... ...........................................................................................................1-11
FSK. ........ ...........................................................................................................1-11
User Manual PXA125
Ramped FSK.......................................................................................................1-11
FM .. ........ ...........................................................................................................1-11
Output Type ..... ...........................................................................................................1-11
Standard (Fixed) Waveforms ..............................................................................1-12
Arbitrary (User) Waveforms................................................................................. 1-12
Sequenced Waveforms .......................................................................................1-13
Output State ..... ...........................................................................................................1-14
Filters ...... ........ ...........................................................................................................1-14
Programming the PXA125 ...........................................................................................1-15
Chapter 2 - INSTALLATION
Installation Overview ......................................................................................................2-1
Unpacking and Initial Inspection ....................................................................................2-1
Safety Precautions ...................................................................................................2-1
Operating Environment .........................................................................................2-2
Power Requirements.............................................................................................2-2
Grounding Requirements ......................................................................................2-2
Calibration .............................................................................................................2-3
Abnormal Conditions .............................................................................................2-3
Cleaning .. .............................................................................................................2-3
Long Term Storage or Repackaging for Shipment......................................................... 2-3
Preparation for Use ........................................................................................................2-4
Removing the Instrument From the Bag ...............................................................2-4
Installation .............................................................................................................2-4
Installing instrument Drivers...........................................................................................2-4
Minimum System Requirements ...........................................................................2-5
Windows Software installation...............................................................................2-5
Windows 95/98/ME Device Driver installation.......................................................2-5
Windows 2000/XP Device Driver installation ......................................................2-12
Windows NT Device Driver installation ...............................................................2-17
Installing ArbConnection and ArbDetector ...................................................................2-17
The ArbDetector2-24
Using the ArbDetector .........................................................................................2-25
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User Manual PXA125
Configuring Actual Slot Location .........................................................................2-26
Testing Communications with Your instrument ...................................................2-28
Chapter 3 - ArbConnection
What’s in This Chapter...................................................................................................3-1
Introduction to ArbConnection........................................................................................3-1
Installing ArbConnection .......................................................................................3-1
Quitting ArbConnection .........................................................................................3-2
For the New and Advance Users...........................................................................3-2
Conventions Used in This Manual.........................................................................3-2
The Opening Screen ......................................................................................................3-3
ArbConnection Features ................................................................................................3-6
The Control Panels.........................................................................................................3-6
The Main Panel ....................................................................................................3-8
Waveforms....................................................................................................3-9
Operating modes ..........................................................................................3-9
SYNC Output................................................................................................3-9
TTLTrig Output .............................................................................................3-9
Output.........................................................................................................3-10
The Standard Waveforms Panel .........................................................................3-10
Parameters .................................................................................................3-10
Frequency...................................................................................................3-10
10 MHz Ref.................................................................................................3-11
Waveforms..................................................................................................3-12
The Arbitrary & Sequence Panel .........................................................................3-13
Parameters .................................................................................................3-13
Sample Clock .............................................................................................3-14
10 MHz Ref.................................................................................................3-14
Sequence Advance ....................................................................................3-15
Using the Segment Table....................................................................................3-15
Using the sequence Table...................................................................................3-17
The Trigger Panel................................................................................................3-19
Trigger Parameters.....................................................................................3-19
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User Manual PXA125
Slope ..........................................................................................................3-20
Source ........................................................................................................3-20
Arm . ...........................................................................................................3-21
The Modulation Panel .........................................................................................3-21
Frequency Modulation ................................................................................3-21
FSK. ...........................................................................................................3-23
Sweep.........................................................................................................3-23
The Utility Panel ..................................................................................................3-25
Multi-Instrument Synchronization Control...................................................3-25
Filter ...........................................................................................................3-28
System Commands ....................................................................................3-28
The System and Commands Editor ....................................................................3-28
Communication...........................................................................................3-28
System Commands ....................................................................................3-29
Command Editor.........................................................................................3-30
The Waveform Composer ............................................................................................ 3-30
The Commands Bar ............................................................................................3-30
File Commands ..........................................................................................3-31
Edit Commands ..........................................................................................3-32
View Commands ........................................................................................3-34
Wave Commands .......................................................................................3-35
System Commands ....................................................................................3-37
The Toolbars .......................................................................................................3-37
The Waveform Screen ........................................................................................3-40
The FM Composer .......................................................................................................3-42
The Commands Bar ............................................................................................3-42
File Commands ..........................................................................................3-43
Edit Commands ..........................................................................................3-44
Wave Commands .......................................................................................3-46
Generating Waveforms Using the Equation Editor ......................................................3-47
Anchor ........................................................................................................3-48
Level Adjuster.............................................................................................3-48
Equation .....................................................................................................3-49
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Control Buttons...........................................................................................3-49
Writing Equations ................................................................................................3-49
Equation Conventions .........................................................................................3-49
Typing Equations.................................................................................................3-51
Equation Examples..............................................................................................3-52
Combining Waveforms ........................................................................................3-56
Creating FM Markers....................................................................................................3-58
Chapter 4 – PROGRAMMING REFERENCE
What’s in This Chapter...................................................................................................4-1
What’s Required.............................................................................................................4-1
The TEComm.dll Functions............................................................................................4-1
FindInstrument.......................................................................................................4-2
Openinstrument.....................................................................................................4-4
OpenAllInstrument.................................................................................................4-6
CloseInstrument ....................................................................................................4-8
GetInstrumentAttribute ........................................................................................4-10
GetStateMessage................................................................................................4-13
The TE5200drv.dll Functions .......................................................................................4-14
SendCommand....................................................................................................4-14
SendBlock ...........................................................................................................4-17
Introduction to SCPI .....................................................................................................4-21
Command Format................................................................................................4-21
Command Separator ...........................................................................................4-22
The MIN and MAX Parameters ...........................................................................4-22
Querying parameter Setting ................................................................................4-22
Query Response Format .....................................................................................4-22
SCPI Command Terminator ................................................................................4-23
IEEE-488.2 Common Commands .......................................................................4-23
SCPI Parameter Type .........................................................................................4-23
Numeric Parameters...................................................................................4-23
Discrete Parameters...................................................................................4-23
Boolean Parameters...................................................................................4-24
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SCPI Syntax and Styles ......................................................................................4-24
SOURce Subsystem ....................................................................................................4-30
APPLy:SINusoid{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<phase>} .............................................. 4-31
APPLy:TRIangle{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<phase>} .............................................. 4-31
APPLy:SQUare{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<duty_cycle>}.........................................4-32
APPLy:PULSe{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<delay>,<rise>,<high>,<fall>}.................. 4-32
APPLy:RAMP{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<delay>,<rise>,<fall>}............................... 4-33
APPLy:SINC{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<N_cycles>} ...............................................4-33
APPLy:EXPonential{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<exp>}.............................................4-34
APPLy:GAUSsian{<freq>,<ampl>,<offs>,<exp>}................................................4-34
APPLy:DC{<%_ampl>}........................................................................................ 4-35
APPLy:USER{<seg# >,<sclk>,<ampl>,<offs>}.................................................... 4-35
FM(OFF|ON|0|1}..................................................................................................4-36
FM:DEViation<deviation>....................................................................................4-36
FM:FUNCtion:MODE{FIXed|USER}....................................................................4-36
FM:FUNCtion:SHAPe(SINusoid|TRIangle|SQUare|RAMP} ................................4-37
FM:FREQuency<FM_freq> ................................................................................. 4-37
FM:FREQuency:RASTer<FM_sclk> ...................................................................4-37
FM:TRIGger:MODE(CONTinuous|TRIGered|GATEd} ........................................ 4-38
FM:TRIGger:SLOPe(POSitive|NEGative} ...........................................................4-38
FREQuency{<freq>|MINimum|MAXimum} ..........................................................4-38
FREQuency:RASTer{<sclk>|MINimum|MAXimum}.............................................4-39
FREQuency:RASTer:SOURce{EXTernal|INTernal}............................................4-39
FSK:FREQuency:RASTer<FM_sclk> .................................................................4-40
FSK:MODE(HOP|RAMPed} ................................................................................4-40
FSK:RAMP:TIME<time> .....................................................................................4-40
FUNCTion:MODE{FIXed|USER|SEQuence}.......................................................4-41
FUNCtion:SHAPe{SINusoid|TRIangle|SQUare|PULSe|RAMP|SINC|
EXPonential|GAUSsian|NOISe|DC} ........................................................... 4-41
ROSCillator:SOURce{INTernal|EXTernal|TCXO} ...............................................4-42
SWEep:STOP<stop_sclk> ..................................................................................4-42
SWEep:TIME<time>............................................................................................ 4-42
SWEep:DIRection{UP|DOWN}............................................................................4-43
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SWEep:SPACing{LINear|LOGarithmic}...............................................................4-43
SWEep:TRIGger:MODE(CONTinuous|TRIGered|GATEd} .................................4-43
SWEep:TRIGger:SLOPe(POSitive|NEGative} ....................................................4-44
SWEep:MARKer<mark_sclk> .............................................................................4-44
VOLTage{<ampl>|MINimum|MAXimum} .............................................................4-44
VOLTage:OFFSet<offs>......................................................................................4-45
SINusoid:PHASe<phase> ...................................................................................4-45
TRIangle:PHASe<phase> ...................................................................................4-45
SQUare:DCYCle<duty_cycle> ............................................................................4-46
PULSe:DELay<delay>.........................................................................................4-46
PULSe:WIDTh<pulse_width>..............................................................................4-46
PULSe:TRANsition<rise> ....................................................................................4-47
PULSe:TRANsition:TRAiling<fall>.......................................................................4-47
RAMP:DELay<delay>..........................................................................................4-47
RAMP:TRANsition<rise> .....................................................................................4-48
RAMP:TRANsition:TRAiling<fall>........................................................................4-48
SINC:NCYCleN_cycles> .....................................................................................4-48
GAUSsian:EXPonent<exp>.................................................................................4-49
EXPonential:EXPonent<exp>..............................................................................4-49
DC<%_amplitude> ..............................................................................................4-49
OUTPut Subsystem......................................................................................................4-50
OUTPut{OFF|ON|0|1}..........................................................................................4-50
OUTPut:FILTer{NONE|25M|50M|ALL} ................................................................4-50
OUTPut:SYNC{OFF|ON|0|1}...............................................................................4-51
OUTPut:SYNC:SOURce{BIT|LCOMplete} ..........................................................4-51
OUTPut:SYNC:POSition<position>.....................................................................4-51
OUTPut:SYNC:WIDTh<width>............................................................................4-52
OUTPut:TTLTrig<N>{OFF|ON|0|1}......................................................................4-52
OUTPut:STAR {OFF|ON|0|1} ..............................................................................4-53
INSTrument Subsystem ...............................................................................................4-54
INSTrument:COUPle{OFF|ON|0|1} .....................................................................4-54
INSTrument:COUPle:MODE{MASTer|SLAVe}....................................................4-54
INSTrument:COUPle:PHASe<phase> ................................................................4-55
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INSTrument:SET {0|1|2}......................................................................................4-55
Synchronizing Multiple Instruments .............................................................................4-56
TRIGger Subsystem..................................................................................................... 4-58
ARM{OFF|ON|0|1}............................................................................................... 4-58
ARM:SLOPe{POSitive|NEGative} .......................................................................4-59
ARM:BREakpoint:POSition<position>................................................................. 4-59
INITiate:CONTinuous{OFF|ON|0|1} ....................................................................4-59
TRIGger:BURSt{OFF|ON|0|1}.............................................................................4-60
TRIGger:COUNt<count> ..................................................................................... 4-60
TRIGger:GATE{OFF|ON|0|1} .............................................................................. 4-60
TRIGger:SLOPe{POSitive|NEGative} .................................................................4-61
TRIGger:SOURce:ADVance{EXTernal|INTernal|TTLTrig<N>|STAR} ................4-61
TRIGger:TIMer<interval> ....................................................................................4-62
TRIGger:IMMediate.............................................................................................4-62
*TRG ....... ...........................................................................................................4-62
TRACe Subsystem....................................................................................................... 4-63
Arbitrary Waveforms ....................................................................................................4-63
Arbitrary Memory Management.................................................................................... 4-64
Downloading Arbitrary Waveforms............................................................................... 4-64
TRACe:DEFine<segment_number>,<length> ....................................................4-65
TRACe:DELete<segment_number> ...................................................................4-65
TRACe:DELete:ALL ............................................................................................4-65
TRACe:SELect<segment_number>....................................................................4-66
Sequenced Waveforms................................................................................................4-66
SEQuence:ADVance(?){AUTOmatic|STEP|SINGle|MIXed} ...............................4-67
SEQuence:ADVance:SOURce(?){EXTernal|INTernal|TTLTrig<N>|STAR} ........4-67
SEQuence:DEFine <step_#>,<segment_#>,<#_repeat>,<mode> .....................4-68
SEQuence:DELete:ALL.......................................................................................4-68
SYSTem Subsystem .................................................................................................... 4-69
SYSTem:ERRor? ................................................................................................4-69
SYSTem:VERSion? ............................................................................................4-69
SYSTem:IDENtification? .....................................................................................4-69
RESet, *RST .......................................................................................................4-69
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*IDN?....... ...........................................................................................................4-69
IEEE-STD-488.2 Common Commands and Queries ...................................................4-70
The SCPI Status Registers..................................................................................4-71
The Status Byte
Reading the Status Byte Register
Clearing the Status Byte Register
Service Request Enable Register (SRE)
Standard Event
Standard Event Status Enable Register (ESE) ...................................................4-76
Error Messages ...................................................................................................4-76
Register (STB) ..........................................................................4-71
......................................................................4-74
......................................................................4-74
............................................................4-74
Status Register (ESR) ...............................................................4-75
Appendix A - SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................ A-1
List of Figures
Figure 1-1, PXA125 Series.............................................................................................1-3
Figure 1-2, ArbConnection – Control Panels..................................................................1-4
Figure 1-3, ArbConnection – Wave Composer ..............................................................1-5
Figure 1-4, ArbConnection – FM Composer ..................................................................1-5
Figure 1-5a, Segment 1 – Sin (x)/x Waveform .............................................................1-13
Figure 1-5b, Segment 2 – Sin Waveform .....................................................................1-13
Figure 1-5c, Segment 3 – Pulse Waveform .................................................................1-14
Figure 1-5d, Sequenced Waveforms............................................................................1-14
Figure 2-1, Add New Hardware Wizard..........................................................................2-6
Figure 2-2, Search for PXA125 Driver............................................................................2-7
Figure 2-3, Specify PXA125 Driver Location..................................................................2-8
Figure 2-4, Specify Subfolder for Your Instrument .........................................................2-9
Figure 2-5, Device Driver Detected ................................................................................2-9
Figure 2-6, Copying Device Driver ...............................................................................2-10
Figure 2-7, Finish Copying Device Driver.....................................................................2-10
Figure 2-8, Checking Driver Installation .......................................................................2-11
Figure 2-9, The Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard...................................2-12
Figure 2-10, Install Hardware Device Drivers...............................................................2-13
Figure 2-11, Locate Driver Files ...................................................................................2-13
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User Manual PXA125
Figure 2-12, Copying Device Drivers ...........................................................................2-14
Figure 2-13, Driver Files Search Results .....................................................................2-15
Figure 2-14, Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard ........................................2-15
Figure 2-15, Device Manager....................................................................................... 2-16
Figure 2-16, CD’s GUI.................................................................................................. 2-18
Figure 2-17, Install preparation ....................................................................................2-19
Figure 2-18, First Installation Step ...............................................................................2-20
Figure 2-19, Customer Information Step......................................................................2-20
Figure 2-20, Selecting Setup Type...............................................................................2-21
Figure 2-21, Selecting Destination ...............................................................................2-22
Figure 2-22, Selecting Features...................................................................................2-22
Figure 2-23, Selecting ArbDetector Icon options .........................................................2-23
Figure 2-24, Setup Complete .......................................................................................2-24
Figure 2-25, The ArbDetector Icon at the Startup Tray................................................2-24
Figure 2-26, ArbDetector Icon Options ........................................................................2-25
Figure 2-27, The ArbDetector Dialog Box ....................................................................2-25
Figure 2-28, The Settings Tab .....................................................................................2-27
Figure 2-29, Editing Chassis Number and Slot Location .............................................2-27
Figure 2-30, Communicating with your Instrument ......................................................2-29
Figure 3-1, The Opening Screen....................................................................................3-3
Figure 3-2, ArbConnection’s Toolbars ...........................................................................3-5
Figure 3-3, The Main Panel............................................................................................3-8
Figure 3-4, The Standard Waveforms Panel................................................................ 3-12
Figure 3-5, The Arbitrary & Sequence Panel ...............................................................3-14
Figure 3-6, The Segment Table ...................................................................................3-16
Figure 3-7, The Sequence Table .................................................................................3-18
Figure 3-8, The Trigger Panel ......................................................................................3-20
Figure 3-9, The Modulation Panel................................................................................3-23
Figure 3-10, The Utility Panel.......................................................................................3-26
Figure 3-11, The Multi-Instrument Synchronization Panel ........................................... 3-27
Figure 3-12, Multi-Instrument Synchronization Error Message....................................3-27
Figure 3-13, System Control and the Command Editor ...............................................3-29
Figure 3-14, The Wave Composer Opening Screen....................................................3-31
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Figure 3-15, The Save Wave As… Dialog Box ............................................................3-32
Figure 3-16, Zooming In on Waveforms.......................................................................3-35
Figure 3-17, An Example of Generating Sine Waveforms From the Built-in Library ....3-36
Figure 3-18, The Toolbar Icons....................................................................................3-37
Figure 3-19, The Waveform Screen .............................................................................3-41
Figure 3-20, The FM Composer Opening Screen ........................................................3-43
Figure 3-21, The FM Composer Save As… Dialog Box...............................................3-44
Figure 3-22, An Example of Generating Modulating Sine From the Built-in Library.....3-47
Figure 3-23, The Equation Editor Dialog Box...............................................................3-48
Figure 3-24, Using the Equation Sample to Combine Two Waveforms .......................3-52
Figure 3-25, Using the Equation Editor to Modulate Sine Waveforms .........................3-53
Figure 3-26, Using the Equation Editor to Add Second Harmonic Distortion ...............3-54
Figure 3-27, Using the Equation Editor to Generate Exponentially Decaying
Sinewave ...........................................................................................................3-55
Figure 3-28, Using the Equation Editor to Build Amplitude Modulated Signal with ............
Upper and Lower Sidebands ..............................................................................3-56
Figure 3-29, Combining Waveforms Into Equations.....................................................3-57
Figure 3-30, Generating FM markers ...........................................................................3-59
Figure 4-1, SCPI Status Registers ...............................................................................4-73
List of Tables
Table 4-1, Model PXA125 SCPI Commands List Summary.........................................4-25
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xiv
Chapter 1
f
r
PORTRAYAL
What’s In This
Chapter
Introduction
Conventions
Used in this
Manual
This chapter contains general and functional description of the Model
PXA125 Arbitrary Waveform Generator. It also describes the front
panel connectors and operational modes and provides description o
all features available with the instruments.
Model PXA125 is a single-channel PXI-based Arbitrary Waveform
Generator. It is a high performance waveform generator that
combines three powerful instruments in one small package: function
generator, Waveform generator and modulation generator. Supplied
free with the instrument is ArbConnection software, which is used fo
controlling the PXA125 and for generating, editing and downloading
waveforms from a remote computer. The following highlights the
PXA125 and ArbConnection features.
The following conventions may appear in this manual:
NOTE
A Note contains information relating to the use of this product
CAUTION
A Caution contains information that should be followed to avoid personal
damage to the instrument or the equipment connected to it.
PXA125 Series
WARNING
A Warning alerts you to a potential hazard. Failure to adhere to the
statement in a WARNING message could result in personal injury.
The following symbol may appear on the product:
CAUTION:
Refer to Accompanying Documents
This refers you to additional information contained in this manual. The
corresponding information in the manual is similarly denoted.
• PXI Single Slot Module
User Manual PXA125
Feature Highlights
• 125 MS/s sample clock frequency
• Built-in standard waveforms. Up to 50 MHz sinewave output
• 10 digits frequency setting, limited by 1 µS/s
• 14-bit vertical resolution
• 2 Meg memory depth
• Ultra fast waveform downloads
• 1 ppm clock stability
• Extremely low phase noise carrier
• Frequency agility: FSK, ramped FSK, sweep, FM
• Trigger start phase control and breakpoints
• Built-in sequence generator
• Multiple instrument synchronization with tight phase control
1-2 Portrayal
User Manual PXA125
125MS/s
WAVEFORM
GENERATOR
PXA125
OUTPUT
SYNC OUT
TRIG IN
SINE OUT
1Vp-p
10M REF IN
TTL
ArbConnection
Feature
Highlights
LeCroy
Figure 1-1, PXA125
• Three powerful tools in one software package: Instrument control
panel, Waveform composer and FM signal composer
• Detailed virtual front panels control all PXA125 functions and
modes
• Wave composer generates, edits and downloads complex
waveforms
• FM wave composer generates and downloads complex
modulating signals
• Automatic detection of active instruments
• Equation editor generates waveforms from equations
• SCPI command and response editor simulates ATE operation
Portrayal 1-3
User Manual PXA125
• Translates waveform coordinates from ASCII and other formats
• Simplifies generation of complex sequences
1-4 Portrayal
Figure 1-2, ArbConnection - Control Panels
User Manual PXA125
Figure 1-3, ArbConnection - Wave Composer
Figure 1-4, ArbConnection - FM Wave Composer
Portrayal 1-5
User Manual PXA125
r
r
r
f
f
Functional
Description
Output Functions
Frequency
Amplitude
Detailed functional description is given following the general
description of the features and functions available with the PXA125.
Model PXA125 is completely digital. There are no analog functions
resident in its hardware circuits. Data has to be downloaded to the
instrument for it to start generating waveforms. The instrument can
generate a few standard functions such as sine wave, triangula
wave and square wave. Each time that a standard function is
required, the instrument calculates its coordinates and places them in
the waveform memory. Therefore, every time a standard function is
selected, minimal time is required for the controller to compute the
function and load its data to the waveform memory.
Waveform frequency and sample clock are programmed with 10
digits, limited only by 1 µS/s. Frequency accuracy of the output
waveform is determined by the clock reference, CLK10, which
provides 100ppm accuracy and stability over time and temperature.
The output level may be programmed from 160 mV to 16 Vp-p into
open circuit, or 80 mV to 8 V into 50Ω. Offset may be applied to the
output to shift the signal either positive or negative. Offset and
amplitude are inter-related, so make sure you understand the offsetamplitude ranges before you apply offset to your signal.
Trigger Modes
Arbitrary Waveforms
Memory Segmentation
Besides its normal continuous mode, the PXA125 responds to a
variety of trigger sources. The output waveform may be gated,
triggered, or generate a counted burst of waveforms. A built-in trigge
generator, having a programmable period can be used as a
replacement of an external trigger source. The internal trigge
generator can be programmed with resolution of 7 digits. The
PXA125 can be programmed to output triggers on one or more of 8
trigger lines that are connected to P2, as well as, be programmed to
respond to these same trigger lines.
The Model PXA125 generates arbitrary waveforms with 14 bits o
vertical resolution. Any waveform it generates must first be loaded to
its waveform memory. The arbitrary waveform memory is a bank o
14-bit words. Each word represents a point on the horizontal
waveform scale. Each word has a horizontal address that can range
from 0 to 2,097,152 and a vertical address that can range from -8192
to +8191 (14 bits). Using a high speed clocking circuit, the digital
contents of the arbitrary waveform memory is extracted and routed to
the Digital to Analog Converter (DAC). The DAC converts the digital
data to an analog signal, and the output amplifier completes the task
by amplifying or attenuating the signal at the output connector.
There is no need to use the entire memory every time an arbitrary
waveform is generated. The waveform memory can be divided into
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smaller segments and different waveforms can be loaded into
individual segment. The various segments may then be loaded into a
sequence table to generate long and complex waveforms. The
sequence table can link up to 4096 segments, while each segment
can loop up to 128 K times.
Remote Control
Frequency Agility
The instrument must be used in conjunction with a host computer. All
of its functions, modes and parameters are fully programmable using
SCPI commands and syntax. There are three ways to program the
Model PXA125, the first being low-level programming of each
individual parameter, using SCPI commands. The second alternative
is to use ArbConnection for high-level programming. ArbConnection
is a software package supplied with the PXA125 that simulates a
mechanical front panel. It has all the necessary push buttons,
displays and dials to operate the instrument as if you were using it on
the bench. The third alternative is using application specific drivers,
such LabVIEW.
The PXA125 must be programmed to generate waveforms.
Therefore, it is recommended that the user becomes familiar with its
basic features, functions and programming concepts as described in
this and subsequent chapters.
The instrument generates its sample clock from a DDS circuit (direct
digital synthesis). The DDS circuit enables frequency agility through
the complete frequency range of the PXA125. Having such an
enormous range opens the door for a wide range of applications such
as wide band sweep, FSK and frequency modulation. The PXA125
can generate FSK, Ramped FSK and Linear or Logarithmic sweep.
The instrument can also frequency modulate its carrier using one o
its built-in waveforms, or with can also generate any user-defined
modulating signal, which can be downloaded using the FM wave
composer.
Multi-Instrument
Synchronization
Supplied
There are applications requiring 2 or more synchronized channels.
Synchronization between completely independent, free-running
instruments is not an easy task. Besides distribution of the sample
clock to all instruments, each instrument has to be told when to start
generating waveforms so that all waveforms start from the same point
and with the same phase. Also, triggering multiple instruments to
achieve synchronization is not enough because it will generate a jitte
of ±1 count.
The PXA125 is using Backplane, daisy-chained connections to
synchronize between modules and the only limitation of the numbe
of synchronized instruments is determined by the size of the cage.
The instrument is supplied with a CD that includes an Instruction
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Accessories
Specifications
Functional
Description
Front Panel
Connectors
Manual, ArbConnection for Windows 95/98/ME/2000/XP/NT and plug
& play drivers.
Instrument specifications are listed in Appendix A. These
specifications are the performance standards or limits against which
the instrument is tested. Specifications apply under the following
conditions: output terminated into 50Ω after 30 minutes of warm up
time, and within a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C. Specifications
outside this range are degraded by 0.1% per °C.
A detailed functional description is given in the following paragraphs.
The description is divided into logical groups: front panel connectors,
operating modes, output type, output state, filters and
synchronization.
The PXA125 has 3 BNC connectors on its front panel: main and
SYNC outputs and trigger input. There are also 2 SMB connectors:
sine output and 10 MHz reference input. These connectors are
described below.
Output
SYNC Output
TRIG/FSK IN
The output connector outputs fixed (pre-defined) waveforms to 50
MHz, user (arbitrary) and sequenced waveforms with sampling clock
to 125 MS/s. Output impedance is 50Ω, that is, the cable connected
to this output should be terminated with 50Ω load. Amplitude
accuracy is calibrated when connected to a 50Ω load. The amplitude
is doubled when the output impedance is above 1 MΩ.
The SYNC output generates a single TTL pulse for synchronizing
other instruments (i.e., an oscilloscope) to the output waveform. The
SYNC signal always appears at a fixed point relative to the waveform.
The location of the SYNC signal along the waveform is
programmable. The SYNC output is also used as marker output when
the sweep, or FM functions are turned on.
In general, this input accepts signals that stimulate generation of output waveforms. The trigger input is inactive when the generator operates in continuous mode. When placed in trigger, gated or burst
modes, the trigger input is made active and waits for the right condition to trigger the instrument. In trigger and burst modes, the trigge
input is edge sensitive, i.e., it senses transitions from high to low o
from low to high to trigger the PXA125. The direction of the transition
is programmable. In gated mode, the trigger input is level sensitive,
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i.e., the generator is gated when the logic level is high and idle when
the level is logic low. Trigger level for this input is TTL.
The same input is used in FSK mode, where the output hops between two frequencies – carrier and shifted frequencies. The output
generates carrier frequency when the FSK input is false and shifted
frequency when the FSK input is true.
The trigger input is also used as stop and start input when the
PXA125 is placed in Arm mode.
SINE OUT
REF IN
Operating Modes
Continuous Mode
This SMB connector outputs dc coupled, fixed level (1 V
50Ω) sine waveforms. This output is derived directly from the sample
clock generator and is active at all times, regardless of present
operating mode of the PXA125. The frequency of the sine output is
programmed using the sample clock parameter. Frequency agility
and modulation affect this output directly. The sine waveform output
is programmed to 125 MHz, so it may serve as an additional output to
those available on the front panel.
This SMB connector accepts 10 MHz, TTL level reference signal. The
external reference input is available for those applications requiring
better accuracy and stability reference than the one provided inside
the PXA125. The reference input is active only after selecting the
external reference source mode.
The PXA125 can be programmed to operate in one of four operating
modes: continuous, triggered, gated and (counted) burst. These
modes are described below.
In normal continuous mode, the selected waveform is generated
continuously at the selected frequency, amplitude and offset.
k
into
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Triggered Mode
Gated Mode
In triggered mode, the PXA125 circuits are armed to generate one
output waveform. The trigger circuit is sensitive to transitions at the
trigger input. Select between positive or negative transitions to trigge
the instrument. When triggered, the generator outputs one waveform
cycle and remains idle at the first point of the waveform. The
instrument can be armed to receive a trigger signal from either the
front panel connector, soft command, an internal trigger generator,
from one of 8 backplane trigger lines or from a backplane STAR line.
As an alternative to an external source, the PXA125 has a built-in
trigger generator that can be programmed through a wide range o
frequencies and with 7 digits of resolution.
The trigger signal, whether it comes from the front panel, backplane
or from a soft command, has to pass through some electrical circuits.
These circuits cause small delay known as system delay. System
delay cannot be eliminated completely and must be considered when
applying a trigger signal. It defines how long it will take from a valid
trigger edge to the moment that the output reacts.
In gated mode, the PXA125 circuits are armed to generate output
waveforms as long as a gating signal is present. Unlike the triggered
mode, the gated mode is level sensitive. When the gating signal goes
low, the waveform at the output connector is first completed and the
output reverts to an idle state. The idle amplitude level, after the
gating signal goes low, is the last point on the waveform.
Burst Mode
Frequency Agility
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The burst mode is an extension of the triggered mode where the
generator can be programmed to output a pre-determined number o
waveforms. The sources to trigger a burst are the same as for the
trigger mode.
Using the latest DDS (direct digital synthesis) technology, the
PXA125 is extremely agile. Operations like sweep, FSK and FM are
directly derived from the DDS circuit by controlling its input bits.
Frequency agility is described below.
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Sweep
FSK
Ramped FSK
The PXA125 can sweep from minimum to maximum sample clock
frequency settings. You may select to sweep up or down using linea
or logarithmic increments. Sweep time is programmable from 1 ms to
1000 seconds with 7 digits. The sweep start and stop frequencies
program the front-panel sine output connector. You may also use the
sweep from the main output but must first calculate start stop
frequencies, depending on the present sample clock frequency and
waveform length. You may use the sweep in continuous, triggered, o
gated modes.
FSK (frequency shift keying) function controls the sine output
connector. The trigger input is used to flag the PXA125 when to
output carrier frequency (trigger false) or when it should switch to the
shift frequency (trigger true). You may also use the FSK function from
the front panel as long as you do your own calculation of carrier and
shifted frequencies, depending on the present sample clock
frequency and waveform length.
Ramped FSK is the same as the FSK function except the output
frequency is ramped instead of switched to the shift frequency. Ramp
time is programmable with 3 digits from 100 µs to 1 second.
FM
Output Type
The FM function modulates the PXA125 sample clock frequency. You
can frequency modulate the output either with built-in waveforms, o
download complex waveforms to the modulation memory. Using the
latest DDS technology, the modulation is wide band and extremely
linear. FM can be used in continuous, triggered and gated modes.
The PXA125 can generate two types of frequency modulation: 1)
Standard and 2) Arbitrary. In standard mode, the modulating
waveform is selected from a built-in library of 4 standard waveforms:
sine, triangle, square and ramped. In arbitrary mode, the modulating
signal is downloaded to the modulation waveform memory. There are
20,000 points allocated specifically for the arbitrary memory that is
used for arbitrary frequency modulation.
The PXA125 can output three types of waveforms: standard (Fixed),
arbitrary (User) and sequenced waveforms. Description of the various
waveform types that the instrument can generate is given below.
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Standard (FIXED)
Waveforms
Arbitrary (User)
Waveforms
The PXA125 must pre-load its memory before it can generate
waveforms. On power up, the waveform memory has no specific
data. The sine waveform, being the default waveform on power on, is
computed and loaded to the waveform memory as part of the reset
procedure. From this moment on, every time that another standard
waveform is selected, it is being computed and loaded to the
waveform memory.
Waveforms are written from the same start address. Therefore, every
time that a new waveform is selected, there is some minimal time fo
the processor to compute and download the data to the memory.
The PXA125 can be programmed to output one of nine standard
waveform shapes: sine, triangle, square, pulse/ramp, sine(x)/x pulse,
gaussian pulse, rising/decaying exponential pulse, noise and dc.
There are some parameters associated with each waveform, which
modify the shape of the waveform to better suit your needs. Fo
example, different start phase for the sine waveform can be
programmed for each channel to create phase offsets between the
two instruments.
The arbitrary waveform memory is capable of storing one or more
user-defined waveforms. As was discussed before, the PXA125 is
supplied with 2 Meg memory bank. There are up to 2 Meg points that
can be allocated to one single waveform. On the other hand, there is
no need to use the entire memory for only one waveform; The
memory can be divided into smaller segments and loaded with
different waveforms and the instrument can be programmed to output
one segment at a time.
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Loading data to arbitrary waveform memory can be a time-consuming
task, especially if all 2 Meg points are loaded in one shot. The
PXA125 utilizes a DMA (direct memory access) concept that speeds
data transfer from host computer to the instrument.
User Manual PXA125
Sequenced
Waveforms
The sequence generator is a powerful tool that lets you link and loop
segments in any way you desire. As a simple example of a
sequenced waveform, look at Figures 1-5a through 1-5c. The
waveforms shown in these figures were placed in memory segments
1, 2 and 3, respectively. The sequence generator takes these three
waveforms links and loops them in a predefined order to generate the
waveform shown in Figure 1-5d.
The sequence circuit is useful for generating long waveforms with
repeated sections. The repeated waveform has to be programmed
once and the repeater loops on this segment as many times as
selected. When in sequenced mode, there is no loss of time between
linked or looped segments.
Figure 1-5a, Segment 1 – Sin (x)/x Waveform
Figure 1-5b. Segment 2 – Sine Waveform
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Figure 1-5c Segment 3 – Pulse Waveform
The following sequence was made of segment 2 repeated twice,
segment 1 repeated four times, and segment 3 repeated two times.
Output State
Filters
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Figure 1- 5d. Sequenced Waveforms
The main outputs can be turned on or off. The internal circuit is
disconnected from the output connector by a mechanical switch
(relay). This feature is useful for connecting the main outputs to an
analog bus. For safety reasons, when power is first applied to the
chassis, the main output is always off.
Two filters are built into the PXA125. These filters are available fo
use in various applications such as the creation of high frequency
sine waves and removing the staircase effect from waveforms that
are generated with high frequency clock rates. The filters are also
used for reconstructing the standard sine waveform.
User Manual PXA125
Programming
The PXA125
The PXA125 does not have front panel control capability. Also,
waveform data and sequence tables must be loaded to the PXA125
from a host computer before it can be output arbitrary or sequenced
waveforms. There are a number of ways to “talk” to the instrument.
They all require that an appropriate software driver be installed in the
host computer. The rest is a matter of practice and knowledge of the
language in use. These topics are discussed in later chapters.
Low level programming of the PXA125 is accomplished using SCPI
(Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) language.
Programming aspects are covered in Chapter 4.
Supplied with the PXA125 is a PC software package called
ArbConnection. This software provides a user interface that allows
interacting with and controlling the PXA125 directly. Details on how to
use ArbConnection are given in Chapter 3.
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INSTALLATION
Installation
Overview
Unpacking and
Initial Inspection
Safety
Precautions
This chapter contains information and instructions necessary to
prepare the Model PXA125 for operation. Details are provided fo
initial inspection, grounding requirements, repackaging instructions fo
storage or shipment and installation information.
Unpacking and handling of the generator requires normal precautions
and procedures applicable to handling of sensitive electronic
equipment. The contents of all shipping containers should be checked
for included accessories and certified against the packing slip to
determine that the shipment is complete.
The following safety precautions should be observed before using this
product and associated computer. 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 persons who recognize
shock hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions required to
avoid possible injury. The following sections contain information and
cautions that must be observed to keep the PXA125 operating in a
correct and safe condition.
CAUTION
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test
cables, or any other instrument parts while power
is applied to the circuit under test. ALWAYS
remove power from the entire test system before
connecting cables or jumpers, installing or
removing cards from the chassis. 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 keep your hands dry while
handling the instrument.
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