Thurlby Thandar Instruments TA320S User Manual
THURLBY THANDAR INSTRUMENTS
TA320S
32-CHANNEL LOGIC ANALYSER
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Section 1 - Specification 2
Section 2 - Safety, Installation and EMC 4
Section 3 - Initial Operation 7
Section 4 - Configuration Menu 10
Section 5 - Trigger Words Menu 14
Section 6 - Trigger Sequence Menu 17
Section 7 - Timing Display 20
Section 8 - List Display 25
Section 9 - Utilities Menu 29
Section 10 - Making an Acquisition 32
Section 11 - ARC Remote Control 33
Introduction
The TA320 is a high performance, very low-cost, portable logic analyser for development, production and
field-service applications. It can capture data across 32 channels (at 25MHz) at up to 100MHz (8
channels) and display it in both Timing and List formats on the built-in supertwist LCD or on a PC screen.
The TA320 features multi-level triggering with event counting and restart. Glitch capture and glitch
triggering are also available with the appropriate input pods. The three external clocks have independent
qualifiers and both data and clock pod inputs can be fixed (TTL) or variable threshold depending on pod
choice.
All functions are accessed through easy to follow soft-key controlled displays. The use of soft-keys
guides the user and minimises the number of keystrokes required to achieve the desired function.
Alternatively the TA320 can be fully remote-controlled via its RS232 serial interface from a PC which
offers an enhanced soft-key orientated user interface and more sophisticated data displays.
An ARC (Addressable RS232 Chain) compatible RS-232 interface is standard, as is non-volatile storage
of data and set-ups (battery-backed CMOS RAM). Disassemblers for popular microprocessors are
optional.
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Section 1 - Specification
SIGNAL INPUTS
Number of Data Channels: 32
Number of Clock Inputs: 3 Independent clock inputs; active edge can be independently selected
for each to be either positive, negative or off.
Number of Clock Qualifiers: 3, 1 for each clock. Selectable to be active high, low or don't care.
Input Characteristics: Determined by the type of pod fitted. All data and clock inputs on the
standard AP01 (25MHz) pod are fixed TTL threshold with an impedance
of typically 100kOhm//10pF. AP03 and AP04 are high speed (100MHz)
TTL threshold data and clock pods respectively, and AP03V/AP04V are
versions with the threshold variable from 2.5V to +7.3V in 100mV steps.
Input impedance for all high speed pods is typically 100kOhm//6pF.
Activity Indicator: Shows whether the channel input is high, low or switching
MEMORY ORGANISATION
Data Memory Size: 32 bits x 2k
Reference Memory Size: 32 bits x 2k
Non-Volatile Memory: Non-volatile storage for 10 acquisitions and 10 set-ups. Data retention
by Lithium cell; typical life 5 years.
EXTERNAL CLOCK
Frequency Range: DC to 25MHz
Minimum Clock Pulse Width: 20ns
Organisation 3 clocks, individually qualified and ORed together.
Set-up and Hold Times: 18ns set-up, 0ns hold for both data and clock qualifiers.
INTERNAL CLOCK
Clock Rate: Selectable 40ns to 100ms (25MHz to 10Hz) in a l:2:4 sequence with all
pods. 10ns (100MHz) with high speed pods in high speed mode.
TRIGGERING
Trigger Sequencer Words: 4 words of up to 32 bits.
Trigger Sequencer Terms: The actual trigger term searched for in a sequencer step each consist
of up to 4 trigger sequencer words ORed together.
Trigger Sequencer Steps: Each of up to 4 sequencer steps consists of a search for the trigger
term specified in that step. Each step has an event count of 1 to 128
occurrences of the trigger term.
Trigger Position: Selectable to be from 0 to 5k clocks before the start, centre or end of
store, in 1k steps.
Trigger Output: TTL level signal at rear panel BNC
GLITCH (Only available when high speed pods are fitted)
Number of Channels: 16 (8 per pod)
Minimum Detectable Pulse: 5ns
Glitch Triggering: A glitch word can be specified which can be ORed with any trigger word
within a trigger term.
2
TIMING DISPLAY
Number of Channels: Any 6 channels may be displayed; channels may be repeated.
Channel Labelling: A user-defined name can be given for each group of channels and each
channel will be uniquely numbered within the group.
Number of Samples: A maximum of 1152 samples can be shown in the display window, with
expansions of x2, x4, x8, and x16. The window can be scrolled
throughout the store and a window indicator shows the position of the
window within the store.
Cursors: A movable cursor and a moveable marker, with direct readout of
absolute and relative store positions and the data values at those locations. The marker will default to the trigger location following each
acquisition.
Glitch: Glitches are shown by markers on the appropriate data channels.
Search: A search can be made for any word; the search word may include
glitches on the glitch channels.
LIST DISPLAY
Channel Groups: Up to 32 channels can be grouped together under a single character
label and given the corresponding name defined on the Timing display.
Up to 16 groups can be specified.
Display Format: Binary, Octal, Hex, Decimal or ASCII individually selectable for each
channel group. Each group is listed underneath its label or name.
Cursors: A movable cursor and a fixed marker are provided.
Search & Compare: Differences between data and reference can be shown and a search
made for any word and any difference. Automatic comparisons between
data and reference memories can be performed on a user specified area
of the data and acquisitions stopped on an equality or inequality.
Print Output: Any specified portion of the List display can be printed out via the RS232
interface to a serial or parallel (with PC02 serial-to-parallel converter)
printer.
SYSTEM DATA
Display: 240 x 64 pixel graphic LCD giving 40 characters x 8 lines.
Interface: Addressable RS232 interface, for remote control and data transfer,
complying with the ARC standard.
Audible Warning Signal: Buzzer.
GENERAL
Size: 260(W) x 88(H) x 235(D)mm (10.2 x 3.4 x 9.2").
Weight: 1.9 kg (4.2lb)
Power: 110-120V AC or 220V-240V AC ±10%, 50/60Hz, by rear panel
adjustment. 25VA max. Installation Category II.
Operating Range: +5°C to 40°C, 20-80% RH.
Storage Range:
–20°C to + 60°C.
Environmental: Indoor use at altitudes up to 2000m, Pollution Degree 2
Safety: Complies with EN61010-1.
3
Safety
This instrument is Safety Class I according to IEC classification and has been designed to meet
the requirements of EN61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
Control and Laboratory Use). It is an Installation Category II instrument intended for operation
from a normal single phase supply.
This instrument has been tested in accordance with EN61010-1 and has been supplied in a safe
condition. This instruction manual contains some information and warnings which have to be
followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to retain the instrument in a safe condition.
This instrument has been designed for indoor use in a Pollution Degree 2 environment in the
temperature range 5°C to 40°C, 20% - 80% RH (non-condensing). It may occasionally be
subjected to temperatures between +5° and -10°C without degradation of its safety. Do not
operate while condensation is present.
Use of this instrument in a manner not specified by these instructions may impair the safety
protection provided. Do not operate the instrument outside its rated supply voltages or
environmental range. In particular excessive moisture may impair safety.
Section 2 - Safety, Installation and EMC
WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED
Any interruption of the mains earth conductor inside or outside the instrument will make the
instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited. The protective action must not be
negated by the use of an extension cord without a protective conductor.
When the instrument is connected to its supply, terminals may be live and opening the covers or
removal of parts (except those to which access can be gained by hand) is likely to expose live
parts. The apparatus shall be disconnected from all voltage sources before it is opened for any
adjustment, replacement, maintenance or repair.
Any adjustment, maintenance and repair of the opened instrument under voltage shall be avoided
as far as possible and, if inevitable, shall be carried out only by a skilled person who is aware of
the hazard involved.
If the instrument is clearly defective, has been subject to mechanical damage, excessive moisture
or chemical corrosion the safety protection may be impaired and the apparatus should be
withdrawn from use and returned for checking and repair.
Make sure that only fuses with the required rated current and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.
This instrument uses a Lithium button cell for non-volatile memory battery back-up; typical life is 5
years. In the event of replacement becoming necessary, replace only with a cell of the correct
type, i.e. 3V Li/Mn0
in accordance with local regulations; do not cut open, incinerate, expose to temperatures above
60°C or attempt to recharge.
Do not wet the instrument when cleaning it and in particular use only a soft dry cloth to clean the
LCD window. The following symbols are used on the instrument and in this manual:-
20mm button cell type 2032. Exhausted cells must be disposed of carefully
2
4
Caution - refer to the accompanying documentation, incorrect operation may
damage the instrument.
alternating current.
Mains Operating Voltage
The TA320 is a safety class 1 instrument, installation category II by IEC classification.
Before making connections to the AC line source ensure that the operating voltage of the
instrument is correctly set.
The operating voltage is indicated by the orientation of the fuseholder. When the 230V marking is
upwards the unit is set for operation over the range 198V to 264V. When the 115V marking is
upwards the unit is set for operation over the range 99V to 132V. To change the operating voltage
range, remove the AC line plug, pull out the fuse holder, replace the fuse with one of the appropriate rating (see below) and rotate the fuse holder before pushing it firmly back into place.
Fuse
The correct fuse must be fitted after an operating voltage change. Only a time-lag fuse should be
fitted.
For 230V operation use 125mA 250V time-lag.
For 115V operation use 250mA 250V time-lag.
Make sure that only fuses with the required rated current and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.
Mains Lead
When a three core mains lead with bare ends is provided this should be connected as follows:
Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside the instrument or disconnection of
the protective earth terminal is likely to make the apparatus dangerous. Intentional interruption is
prohibited.
Maintenance
Cleaning
If the instrument requires cleaning use a cloth that is only lightly dampened with water or a mild
detergent. Polish the display with a soft dry cloth.
WARNING! To avoid electric shock, or damage to the instrument, never allow water to get inside
the case. To avoid damage to the case or display never clean with solvents.
BROWN - MAINS LIVE
BLUE - MAINS NEUTRAL
GREEN/YELLOW - EARTH
WARNING! - THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED
5
EC Declaration of Conformity
We Thurlby Thandar Instruments Ltd
Glebe Road
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire PE29 7DR
England
declare that the
TA320S and TA320PC Logic Analysers
i. meets the intent of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC by conformance with EN61010-1
(1993) Installation Category II.
and
ii. meets the intent of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC by conforming with the protection
requirements of the U.K. EMC Regulations SI 1992/2372 under the provisions made for
Education and Training Equipment (Regulation 8).
Use of the apparatus outside the classroom, laboratory, study area or similar such place
invalidates conformity with the protection requirements of the Electromagnetic
Compatibility Directive (89/336/EEC) and could lead to prosecution.
The apparatus when operated will not cause electromagnetic disturbance to apparatus
situated outside its immediate electromagnetic environment.
CHRIS WILDING
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
1 December 1996
6
3.1 Introduction
This section describes how the TA320 is made operational and introduces the user to the
keyboard, the menus and the data displays.
3.2 Power
Having checked that the instrument's operating voltage has been correctly set for the local supply
(see section 2), plug the power cord into the rear panel inlet and switch the instrument on using
the POWER switch beside the inlet.
The analyser will 'beep' and the main Select Menu will be displayed below the instrument
designation and firmware revision shown in the top line, see fig. 3.1. The displays accessible via
this menu are described below together with the keyboard operation.
Section 3 - Initial Operation
3.3 Keyboard
The keys on the front panel can be divided into soft-keys, cursor keys and alpha-numeric keys.
Soft-keys
The 6 keys under the LCD each take the function shown immediately above them on the display;
see, for example, fig 3.1. As the cursors move the edit zone around the editable fields of the
display, the functions shown in the boxes change and hence the functions of the keys change; for
this reason they are known as soft-keys.
The six soft-keys of the Select Menu give access to the six menus and data displays through
which the instrument is controlled and results are presented.
The menus and data displays can also be accessed by pressing the appropriate numeric key
shown beside each display name, e.g. 4 for TIMING display. To move from one such menu or
display to another it is always necessary to return to the Select Menu by pressing the MENU key
in the alpha-numeric group, and to then select the new display with the appropriate soft-key.
The operations accessible through each display are presented in detail in sections 4 to 9. Briefly
the features accessed by each key are:
CONFIG CONFIGuration MENU. Selection of the instrument configuration including pod type,
fig 3.1.
clock parameters, and acquisition modes.
WORDS Trigger WORDS MENU. Specification of the channel groups and the trigger words.
SEQ Trigger SEQuence MENU. Specification of the trigger sequence.
TIMING TIMING DISPLAY. Presentation of the acquired data as a waveform display with
magnify, find, etc. features.
LIST LIST DISPLAY. Presentation of the acquired data as a state list display in the
selected bases (binary, octal, hex, decimal, ASCII and microprocessor mnemonics)
with find, compare etc. features.
UTIL UTILities MENU. Primarily for the saving of data and set-ups to non-volatile memory
and for specifying the RS232 inter-face parameters.
7
Cursor Keys
The cluster of 4 arrowed cursor keys have 2 basic modes of operation, i.e. moving the edit zone
around menu displays (and data displays if DIT is switched on) or moving the cursor in the
TIMING and LIST data displays.
When used to move the edit zone in menu displays (and data displays when EDIT is switched
ON) the RIGHT and LEFT cursor keys move the edit zone along the line of the display to the next
editable parameter field, and the UP and DOWN keys move the edit zone up or down to the next
line containing an editable parameter field. Note that, when the edit zone is in the rightmost
editable field of a particular line, a further press of the RIGHT cursor key will take the edit zone to
the leftmost editable field of the line below; similarly if the edit zone is in the leftmost editable field
of a particular line, a further press of the LEFT key will take the edit zone to the rightmost editable
field of the line above. It is therefore always possible to move the edit zone through all the
editable parameter fields of a menu using the RIGHT and LEFT cursor keys only. On some lines
of some menus all the editable fields can be accessed at the same time, using the appropriate
soft-keys, without extra cursor moves and the cursor consequently moves from line to line with
each press of the LEFT or RIGHT cursor key.
When the edit zone is in the bottom line of the display a further press of the DOWN key will bring
it to the top line of the display; similarly if the edit zone is in the top line of display a further press
of the UP key will bring the edit zone to the bottom line of the display, i.e. the display 'wrapsround' as far as the cursor is concerned.
In the TIMING data display the LEFT and RIGHT cursor keys are used to move the cursor or
marker through the acquired data and the UP and DOWN keys can be used to scroll any 6 of the
32 channels or scale into view. In the LIST data display the UP and DOWN cursor keys can be
used to scroll through the complete store and the LEFT and RIGHT keys can be used to bring all
specified channel groups into view. In both data displays, when EDIT is turned ON the cursor
keys move the edit zone around the editable fields as in MENU displays.
Alpha-numeric Keys
The majority of parameters are set using the soft-keys. However, several are more easily set with
direct alpha-numeric entries, such as event and delay counts, character labels for channel
groups, etc. The alpha-numeric keypad provides direct entry of all hex characters plus X (don't
care) and the shift key allows all the other alpha characters to be used for labels, etc.
Note that SHIFT remains operational until it is pressed a second time. Shift mode is always
indicated by the message <SHIFT> at the top right-hand corner of the display.
Also grouped with these keys are the RUN and STOP keys, whose functions are fully described
in section 10, and the MENU and EDIT keys. MENU always selects the main Select Menu and
EDIT selects the edit mode within the TIMING or LIST data displays.
3.4 Pods, Cables and Probes
Pod Types
The standard AP01 32-channel combination data and clock pod provides high impedance
buffering of the signal inputs, over-voltage protection, and line drivers to drive the cables which
connect the pod to the analyser. AP01 has a maximum clock rate of 25MHz and no glitch capture
capability. The input threshold is fixed (TTL).
High Speed AP03 data pods provide 16 data inputs without glitch or 8 data inputs with glitch
capture at clock frequencies up to 25MHz, or 4 data inputs at 100MHz clock (asynchronous only).
Two AP03 data pods are needed for the TA320, together with an AP04 clock pod for synchronous
data acquisition. AP04 provides 3 clocks and 3 qualifiers at up to 25MHz. AP03 and AP04 input
thresholds are fixed (TTL).
High speed AP03V and AP04V data and clock pods are variable threshold versions of AP03 and
AP04. Note that fixed and variable threshold pods must not be mixed on the same analyser.
Disassembler pods are special versions of AP01 containing the disassembler software which
connect directly to the processor via a test clip. Full instructions for use are provided with each
disassembler pod.
8
Connecting the Pods to the Analyser
To connect a pod, proceed as follows:
i) Open out the latching levers of the connector, see fig 3.2.(a)
ii) Insert the socket at the end of the pod's cable into the corresponding connector on the rear
panel (TA320S) or front panel (TA320PC). The socket moulding is polarized with a 'bump' so
that it can only be inserted one way round, see fig 3.2.(b)
iii) Press the socket fully home and lock it in position by closing the latching levers, see fig
3.2.(c). The pod can be disconnected again by opening out the latching levers until the socket
is ejected.
fig 3.2
Connecting the Test Leads and Grabber Probes to the Pods
All pods are provided with colour-coded connecting leads which have a multi-pin socket at one
end (for connection to the pod) and which are individually terminated at the other end with
sockets that will connect to the pin of the optional grabber probes or to any other standard .025"
(0.64mm) square or 0.25" diameter pin, e.g. a wire-wrap post. Note that the socket may become
permanently deformed and loose-fitting if it is forced over a larger pin such as those of some IC
test clips (.030" or more).
For microprocessor disassembly a special test lead is provided which is terminated with a testclip for direct connection to the processor.
When connecting the input pods to the target system at least one ground lead on each pod must
be connected to the target to ensure signal integrity.
3.5 Activity Indication
Pressing <EDIT> whilst the main Select Menu is being displayed changes the display to that
shown in fig. 3.3.
The display is a representation of all 32 input channels, numbered according to the hardware
groupings used for the pod inputs.
When an input channel is below the pod threshold the indicator arrow points down, when it is
above the threshold it points up. The indicators track the input state for low frequencies but for
higher frequency signals the indicators will toggle at the rate at which the data is asynchronously
sampled by the CPU, i.e. a few Hertz.
3.6 Display Contrast
Use the CONTRAST control on the case lower to adjust for best LCD contrast with the analyser
set in its working position.
fig. 3.3
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4.1 Introduction
The Configuration menu, accessed by pressing the CONFIG soft-key on the Select Menu has
three principle functions. The first is the selection of the basic configuration of the instrument, i.e.
pod type and glitch on or off. The second is the clock selection including, if external clock is
selected, the specification of the active edges and qualifiers. Thirdly, the menu is used to specify
the acquisition mode, including the comparison ranges if automatic modes are selected.
Fig 4.1. shows the default Configuration menu immediately after selection from the Select Menu.
Section 4 - Configuration Menu
fig 4.1
The first 7 lines contain the parameters which are editable in this display. At the right-hand side of
the top line is the menu title (CONFIG); this area is used to display the status of the current
acquisition (e.g. <RUNNING>) or editing prompts and warnings (e.g. <SHIFT> when the shift
function is selected).
At the bottom are the soft-keys used when editing the display. In this menu all the parameters on
the same line can be edited at the same time so both the LEFT/RIGHT and UP/DOWN cursor
keys move the edit zone one line with each press and the soft-keys change accordingly.
Acquisitions can be initiated and stopped from the Configuration menu but no parameters can be
edited on the menu while the acquisition is running.
4.2 Pod Selection
-POD------------------------------------
Pressing the <POD> soft-key cycles the pod selection through AP01, AP03, AP03V and
DISSassembler in turn. When AP03 or AP03V is selected additional soft-keys are shown to
enable glitch to be selected, and when AP03V is selected further soft-keys permit threshold
selection, see sections 4.3 and 4.4.
4.3 Glitch Selection (APO3 and AP03V only)
POD----ON----OFF------------------------
Soft-key representation
Soft-key representation
10
With AP03 or AP03V selected in the Pod field (see 4.2) the soft-keys change to permit glitch
selection.
<ON> selects glitch on and <OFF> selects glitch off. In the top line of the display <glitch>
indicates that glitch is off and <GLITCH> (i.e. capitals) indicates that glitch is on.
If INTernal clock had already been set to 10ns (100MHz), selecting glitch on will force it to 40ns
(25MHz), the fastest clock rate compatible with glitch selection, see 4.5.
With glitch on, the trigger WORDS and SEQuence menus will change to the glitch default settings
to permit only those set-ups compatible with glitch operation. This will happen immediately glitch
is set on (without accessing the other menus) which means that the channel groupings used in
the non-glitch mode will be lost and will not be restored when glitch is set off again.
However, if no acquisition has been run in the new configuration, the 'Last Run Set-up' can be
reloaded from the Utilities menu to restore the previous channel groupings, etc.
4.4 Pod Threshold Selection (AP03V only)
-POD----ON----OFF----TTL----INC----DEC—
With AP03V selected in the Pod field (see 4.2) the soft-keys change as shown above.
The thresholds are INCreased or DECreased from the default TTL (1.4V) level in 100mV steps
using the <INC> and <DEC> soft-keys. The TTL compatible threshold can be reset directly using
the <TTL> soft-key.
The range of values 'wraps-round' such that decreasing -2.5V by a further step sets the threshold
to 7.3V and increasing 7.3V by a further step sets the value to -2.5V. The set threshold is used
universally for the inputs of all data (AP03V) and clock (AP04V) pods.
4.5 Clock Specification
Soft-key representation
Internal Clock
At power-up the clock is defaulted to INTernal clock and 40ns period (25MHz); the soft-keys are
as shown above. With INT clock selected the clock period can be INCreased or DECreased in a
1:2:4 sequence using the <INC> or <DEC> soft-keys. For information only (i.e. it is not an
editable field) the equivalent clock frequency is shown in brackets after the clock period field.
The INTernal clock period can be set from 40ms (25MHz) to 40ns (25MHz) plus 10ns (100MHz)if
APO3 or AP03V have been selected. Note that the range of values 'wraps-round' such that
INCreasing the period when it is already at maximum (40ms) sets the clock to 40ns (10ns if
AP03/AP03V selected) and DECreasing the period when it is already at minimum sets the period
to 40ms.
Selecting 10ns (100MHz) whilst AP03 or AP03V are selected immediately sets the trigger
WORDS and SEQuence menus to the 100MHz default settings to permit only those entries
compatible with 100MHz operation. This means that channel groupings used in sub-100MHz
mode will be lost and will not be restored when 100MHz mode is deselected. If 10ns (100MHz)
has been selected with AP03 or AP03V, reselection of AP01 or DISSassembler pods will
automatically reset the clock to 40ns (25MHz) and any channel groupings set for 100MHz mode
will again be immediately lost. However, if no acquisition has been run in the new configuration,
the 'Last Run Set-up' can be reloaded from the Utilities menu to store the previous channel
groupings, etc. Even with AP03 or AP03V selected the maximum clock reverts to 25MHz if glitch
mode is selected.
INT/EXT-INC----DEC----------------------
Soft-key representation
External Clock
Alternate presses of the <INT/EXT> soft-key select between INTernal and EXTernal. At power-up
the clock is defaulted to INTernal and the first press of <INT/EXT> changes the clock to EXTernal.
With EXTernal clock selected the INTernal clock parameters are suppressed on the display and
the EXTernal clock operates in the way defined by the clock parameters on the next three lines of
the display. Maximum external clock frequency is 25MHz (minimum clock pulse width 20ns).
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