VXI SM8000 Series User Manual

SM8000 SERIES

OPTICAL SWITCH

SER’S MANUAL

U

P/N: 82-0052-000

Released February 13, 2006

VXI Technology, Inc.

2031 Main Street

Irvine, CA 92614-6509

[phone]

bus

VXI Technology, Inc.

2

VXI Technology, Inc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Certification ......................................................................................................................................................

Warranty ...........................................................................................................................................................

Limitation of Warranty .....................................................................................................................................

Restricted Rights Legend..................................................................................................................................

ECLARATION OF CONFORMITY..............................................................................................................................7

D

ENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ...........................................................................................................................9

G

Terms and Symbols...........................................................................................................................................

Warnings...........................................................................................................................................................

UPPORT RESOURCES............................................................................................................................................11

S

S

ECTION 1 ...................................................................................................................................................................13

I

NTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................................................13

Overview.........................................................................................................................................................

SM8000 Series - Optical Switch Controller....................................................................................................

SM8001 / SM8002 - Multi-Channel Switches ................................................................................................

Configurations.................................................................................................................................................

SM8001 / SM8002 Multi Switch Specifications ............................................................................................

SM8003 - Prism Switches...............................................................................................................................

Configurations.................................................................................................................................................

SM8101 / SM8102 - Optical Attenuators.......................................................................................................

S

ECTION 2 ...................................................................................................................................................................21

P

REPARATION FOR USE...........................................................................................................................................21

Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................

Calculating System Power and Cooling Requirements...................................................................................

Setting the Chassis Backplane Jumpers..........................................................................................................

Setting the Logical Address............................................................................................................................

Example 1 .......................................................................................................................................................

Example 2 .......................................................................................................................................................

Selecting the Extended Memory Space...........................................................................................................

Optical Connections........................................................................................................................................

Cleaning Optical Connectors..........................................................................................................................

Mating Optical Connectors.............................................................................................................................

S

ECTION 3 ...................................................................................................................................................................25

O

PERATION.............................................................................................................................................................25

General Description ........................................................................................................................................

SM8001 / SM8002 - Multi-Channel Switches ................................................................................................

SM8003 - Prism Switches...............................................................................................................................

SM8101 / SM8102 - Optical Attenuators.......................................................................................................

Operation.........................................................................................................................................................

SM8001 / SM8002 - Multi-Channel Switches ................................................................................................

Resetting the Switch..................................................................................................................................

Relay Registers - Output Channel Selection..............................................................................................

1 x N Switch Configuration.......................................................................................................................

Duplex 1 x N Switch Configuration..........................................................................................................

2 x N Blocking Switch Configuration.......................................................................................................

2 x N Non-Blocking Switch Configuration...............................................................................................

Calculating Switching Time......................................................................................................................

SM8003 - Prism Switches...............................................................................................................................

SM8101 / SM8102 - Optical Attenuators.......................................................................................................

Starting the Device ....................................................................................................................................

6
6
6
6

9
9

13
14
15
15
17
18
18
20

21
21
21
22
22
23
23
24
24
24

25
25
26
27
28
28
28
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
34
35

SM8000 Series Preface 3

VXI Technology, Inc.

Control Modes...........................................................................................................................................35

Uncalibrated Operation - Move-To-Absolute-Step...................................................................................

Calibrated Operation..................................................................................................................................

BUSY Signal .............................................................................................................................................

ERROR Status...........................................................................................................................................

Resetting the Device..................................................................................................................................

Commanding the Devices..........................................................................................................................

S

ECTION 4 ...................................................................................................................................................................37

P

ROGRAMMING.......................................................................................................................................................37

Register Access...............................................................................................................................................

Addressing ......................................................................................................................................................

SMIP II Registers - A16 .................................................................................................................................

Module Registers - SM8000 Series Controller - A24 / A32 - Extended Memory..........................................

EVICE MEMORY..................................................................................................................................................54

D

Module Relay Control Address - SM8000 Series Optical Switch Controller.................................................

Relay Register Offset......................................................................................................................................

Writing to the Relay Registers........................................................................................................................

ROGRAMMING EXAMPLES ...................................................................................................................................57

P

Typical Optical Multi-Switch Control Example.............................................................................................

Typical Optical Attenuator Control Example .................................................................................................

OMMAND REGISTER .............................................................................................................................................60

C

Write Example ................................................................................................................................................

Read Example.................................................................................................................................................

Command Set..................................................................................................................................................

30h ..................................................................................................................................................................

31h ..................................................................................................................................................................

32h ..................................................................................................................................................................

35h ..................................................................................................................................................................

43h ..................................................................................................................................................................

6Ch..................................................................................................................................................................

80h ..................................................................................................................................................................

81h ..................................................................................................................................................................

82h ..................................................................................................................................................................

83h ..................................................................................................................................................................

89h ..................................................................................................................................................................

8Ah..................................................................................................................................................................

8Bh..................................................................................................................................................................

8Ch..................................................................................................................................................................

8Dh..................................................................................................................................................................

8Eh..................................................................................................................................................................

90h ..................................................................................................................................................................

96h ..................................................................................................................................................................

A2h..................................................................................................................................................................

I

NDEX ..........................................................................................................................................................................73

35
35
36
36
36
36

37
37
39
48

54
54
55

57
58

60
60
61
62
62
63
63
63
64
64
65
65
66
66
67
67
68
68
69
70
71
71

4 SM8000 Series Preface

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8000 Series Preface 5

VXI Technology, Inc.

CERTIFICATION

VXI Technology, Inc. (VTI) certifies that this product met its published specifications at the time of shipment from the factory.
VTI further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and
Technology (formerly National Bureau of Standards), to the extent allowed by that organization’s calibration facility, and to the
calibration facilities of other International Standards Organization members.

WARRANTY

The product module referred to herein is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from
the receipt date of the product at customer’s facility. The same warranty applies to the optical device options (SM8XXX) for a
period of one year. The sole and exclusive remedy for breach of any warranty concerning these goods shall be repair or
replacement of defective parts, or a refund of the purchase price, to be determined at the option of VTI.

For warranty service or repair, this product must be returned to a VXI Technology authorized service center. The product shall
be shipped prepaid to VTI and VTI shall prepay all returns of the product to the buyer. However, the buyer shall pay all shipping
charges, duties, and taxes for products returned to VTI from another country.

VTI warrants that its software and firmware designated by VTI for use with a product will execute its programming when
properly installed on that product. VTI does not however warrant that the operation of the product, or software, or firmware will
be uninterrupted or error free.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

The warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the buyer, buyer-supplied
products or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside the environmental specifications for the product,
or improper site preparation or maintenance.

VXI Technology, Inc. shall not be liable for injury to property other than the goods themselves. Other than the limited warranty
stated above, VXI Technology, Inc. makes no other warranties, express or implied, with respect to the quality of product beyond
the description of the goods on the face of the contract. VTI specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and
fitness for a particular purpose.

RESTRICTED RIGHTS LEGEND

Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subdivision (b)(3)(ii) of the Rights in
Technical Data and Computer Software clause in DFARS 252.227-7013.

VXI Technology, Inc.
2031 Main Street
Irvine, CA 92614-6509 U.S.A.

6 SM8000 Series Preface

VXI Technology, Inc.

D ECLARATION OF C ONFORMITY

Declaration of Conformity According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014

ANUFACTURER’S NAME VXI Technology, Inc.

M

ANUFACTURER’S ADDRESS 2031 Main Street

M

Irvine, California 92614-6509

RODUCT NAME Optical Switch

P

ODEL NUMBER(S) SM8000

M

RODUCT OPTIONS All

P

RODUCT CONFIGURATIONS All

P

VXI Technology, Inc. declares that the aforementioned product conforms to the requirements of
the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/366/EEC (inclusive 93/68/EEC)
and carries the “CE” mark accordingly. The product has been designed and manufactured
according to the following specifications:

AFETY EN61010 (2001)

S

EMC EN61326 (1997 w/A1:98) Class A

CISPR 22 (1997) Class A
VCCI (April 2000) Class A
ICES-003 Class A (ANSI C63.4 1992)
AS/NZS 3548 (w/A1 & A2:97) Class A
FCC Part 15 Subpart B Class A
EN 61010-1:2001

The product was installed into a C-size VXI mainframe chassis and tested in a typical configuration.

I hereby declare that the aforementioned product has been designed to be in compliance with the relevant sections
of the specifications listed above as well as complying with all essential requirements of the Low Voltage Directive.

February 2006

SM8000 Series Preface 7

Steve Mauga, QA Manager

VXI Technology, Inc.

8 SM8000 Series Preface

VXI Technology, Inc.

Review the following safety precautions to avoid bodily injury and/or damage to the product.
These precautions must be observed during all phases of operation or service of this product.
Failure to comply with these precautions, or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual,
violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the product.

Service should only be performed by qualified personnel.

TERMS AND SYMBOLS

These terms may appear in this manual:

WARNING

CAUTION

These symbols may appear on the product:

GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Indicates that a procedure or condition may cause bodily injury or death.

Indicates that a procedure or condition could possibly cause damage to
equipment or loss of data.

ATTENTION - Important safety instructions

WARNINGS

Frame or chassis ground

Indicates that the product was manufactured after August 13, 2005. This mark is
placed in accordance with EN 50419, Marking of electrical and electronic
equipment in accordance with Article 11(2) of Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE).
End-of-life product can be returned to VTI by obtaining an RMA number. Fees
for take-back and recycling will apply if not prohibited by national law.

Follow these precautions to avoid injury or damage to the product:

Use Proper Power Cord

Use Proper Power Source

Use Proper Fuse

To avoid hazard, only use the power cord specified for this product.

To avoid electrical overload, electric shock, or fire hazard, do not
use a power source that applies other than the specified voltage.

To avoid fire hazard, only use the type and rating fuse specified for
this product.

SM8000 Series Preface 9

WARNINGS (CONT.)

Avoid Electric Shock

Ground the Product

Operating Conditions

Improper Use

VXI Technology, Inc.

To avoid electric shock or fire hazard, do not operate this product
with the covers removed. Do not connect or disconnect any cable,
probes, test leads, etc. while they are connected to a voltage source.
Remove all power and unplug unit before performing any service.

Service should only be performed by qualified personnel.

This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the
power cord. To avoid electric shock, the grounding conductor must
be connected to earth ground.

To avoid injury, electric shock or fire hazard:

- Do not operate in wet or damp conditions.

- Do not operate in an explosive atmosphere.

- Operate or store only in specified temperature range.

- Provide proper clearance for product ventilation to prevent
overheating.

- DO NOT operate if any damage to this product is suspected.

Product should be inspected or serviced only by qualified
personnel.

The operator of this instrument is advised that if the equipment is
used in a manner not specified in this manual, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Conformity is checked by inspection.

10 SM8000 Series Preface

VXI Technology, Inc.

Support resources for this product are available on the Internet and at VXI Technology customer
support centers.

VXI Technology
World Headquarters

VXI Technology, Inc.
2031 Main Street
Irvine, CA 92614-6509

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

VXI Technology
Cleveland Instrument Division

5425 Warner Road
Suite 13
Valley View, OH 44125

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

VXI Technology
Lake Stevens Instrument Division

VXI Technology, Inc.
1924 - 203 Bickford
Snohomish, WA 98290

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Technical Support

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail:

http://www.vxitech.com for worldwide support sites and service plan information.

Visit

SUPPORT RESOURCES

[e-mail]

SM8000 Series Preface 11

VXI Technology, Inc.

12 SM8000 Series Preface

VXI Technology, Inc.

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW

The SM8000 series optical switching modules are members of the VXI Technology SMIP II™
family. They offer a modular design allowing custom switching configurations. Due to the nature
of routing fiber optic cables and modules, the SM8000 series cannot be mixed in one base unit
with other standard SMIP II products. They have their own single-slot or double-slot base units
(SMIP II platform). The SM8000 series can combine different switch modules within themselves,
and then install into a mainframe with other SMIP II products for a complete switching solution.

SM8000 Series Introduction 13

F

IGURE 1-1: SM8000 SERIES OPTICAL SWITCH MODULES

SM8000 SERIES - OPTICAL SWITCH CONTROLLER

The SM8000 high-density optical switch controller module is designed to handle many different
combinations of optical switching modules. This includes up to 12 single mode prism switches, or
4 multi-switch modules of various configurations, or 4 variable attenuators or tunable filters. The
optical modules may be mixed and matched on a single SM8000. Please contact VXI Technology,
Inc. directly for available configurations.

The SM8000 was designed to mount into either a single or double-slot VXI instrument carrier.
The selection of the size of the carrier is dependent on the optical modules that are being
controlled by the SM8000.

VXI Technology, Inc.

14 SM8000 Series Introduction

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8001 / SM8002 - MULTI-CHANNEL SWITCHES

The SM8001 and SM8002 base units house the 1xN and 2xN multi-channel switches. They each
hold up to four optical switch modules. Each switch module can be either a 1xN (where N ranges
from 1 to 32) or a 2xN (where N ranges from 2 to 30). The SM8001 is a single-slot base unit, or
platform, while the SM8002 is a double-slot base unit.

Configurations

The following configurations are available for the SM8001 and SM8002:

SM8001 and SM8002 - Multi-channel Switches: 1 x N
Duplex 1 x N
2 x N Blocking
2 x N Non-Blocking

The total number of available connectors per base unit is:

SM8001 Single-Slot, Multi-channel Base Unit: 12 ST connectors
16 SC connectors
12 FC connectors

SM8002 Double-slot, Multi-channel Base Unit: 24 ST connectors
32 SC connectors
24 FC connectors

SM8000 Series Introduction 15

VXI Technology, Inc.

open

1

1
2
3
4

-

-

N

1
2

1 x N

open

open

1
2

open

2 x N Blocking

F

IGURE 1-2: SM8001 / 8002 SWITCHES

1
2
3
N

1
2

2 x N Non-Blocking

open

open

Duplex 1 x N

open

open

open

1
1
2
2

­N
N

1
2
3
4

­N

16 SM8000 Series Introduction

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8001 / SM8002 MULTI SWITCH SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

WAVELENGTH RANGE

INSERTION LOSS2

BACK REFLECTION
Single-Mode Fiber3
Multi-Mode Fiber3
SWITCHING TIME4

ISOLATION

DURABILITY

REPEATABILITY5

PDL6

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

STORAGE TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

Notes

1 All specifications referenced without connectors.
2 Measured at 23°C ± 5°C.
3 Based on standard 1-meter pigtail length.
4 Based on BUSY output pulse. Actual optical switching time may be faster.
5 Sequential repeatability for 100 cycles at constant temperature after warm-up.
6 Measured at 1550 nm, single-mode only.

780 – 1650 nm

0.6 dB typical, 1.2 dB maximum

-60 dB typical, - 55 dB maximum

-20 dB typical

300 ms + 16 ms per channel maximum

-80 dB maximum

10 million cycles minimum

±0.03 dB maximum

0.05 dB maximum

0°C – 50°C

-20°C – 70°C

40°C / 90% Relative Humidity / 5 days

SM8000 Series Introduction 17

SM8003 - PRISM SWITCHES

The SM8003 is a single-slot Prism switch base unit. SPST, SPDT and Transfer switches can be
mixed and matched within the same SM8003 base unit.

Configurations

The following configurations are available for the SM8003:

SM8003 - Prism Switches: SPST
SPDT
Transfer

The total number of available connectors per base unit is:

SM8003 Single-slot, Prism Switch Base Unit: 12 ST connectors
12 FC connectors
16 SC connectors (Transfer switches only)

VXI Technology, Inc.

Output 1Input 1

Output 2

Output 1Input 1

Output 2

SPST

SPDT

Input 2

Transfer - Position 1

Input 2

Transfer - Position 2

F

IGURE 1-3: 8003 PRISM SWITCHES

18 SM8000 Series Introduction

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8003 PRISM SWITCH SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

WAVELENGTH RANGE

INSERTION LOSS2

BACK REFLECTION
Single-Mode
Multi-Mode
CROSS-TALK

DURABILITY

REPEATABILITY2

PDL3

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

STORAGE TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

Notes

1 All specifications referenced without connectors.
2 Repeatability for 100 cycles at constant temperature.
3 Measured at 1550 nm, single-mode only.

780 – 1570 nm

0.6 dB typical, 1.1 dB maximum

- 55 dB maximum

-20 dB typical

-80 dB maximum

10 million cycles minimum

±0.01 dB maximum

0.05 dB maximum

-20°C – 75°C

-40°C – 85°C

60°C / 90% Relative Humidity / 14 days

SM8000 Series Introduction 19

SM8101 / SM8102 - OPTICAL ATTENUATORS

The SM8101 and SM8102 are single-slot VXIbus modules. The SM8101 is a single-channel
variable attenuator, and the SM8102 is a two-channel variable attenuator.

SM8101 / SM8102 SPECIFICATIONS

VXI Technology, Inc.

ATTENUATOR

ATTENUATION RANGE2 0 – 10 dB 11 – 30 dB 31 – 60 dB
Resolution
Repeatability
Absolute Accuracy
PDL3
INSERTION LOSS

BACK REFLECTION

TURNING SPEED

DAMAGE THRESHOLD

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

STORAGE TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

Notes

1 All specifications referenced without connectors.
2 Maximum attenuation for multi-mode components is 40 dB.
3 Measured at 1550 nm, single-mode only.

0.10 dB 0.12 dB 0.15 dB
±0.05 dB ±0.10 dB ±0.10 dB
±0.10 dB ±0.20 dB ±0.25 dB

0.08 dB 0.10 dB 0.30 dB

0.6 dB typical, 1.5 dB maximum

-50 dB maximum

50 ms minimum, 1400 ms maximum

24 dBm maximum

0°C – 50°C

-20°C – 70°C

40°C / 90% Relative Humidity / 5 days

20 SM8000 Series Introduction

VXI Technology, Inc.

SECTION 2

PREPARATION FOR USE

INTRODUCTION

When the SMIP II is unpacked from its shipping carton, the contents should include the following
items:

(1) SMIP II VXIbus module
(1) SM8000 Series Optical Switch User’s Manual (this manual)

All components should be immediately inspected for damage upon receipt of the unit.

Once the SMIP II is assessed to be in good condition, it may be installed into an appropriate C­size or D-size VXIbus chassis in any slot other than slot zero. The chassis should be checked to
ensure that it is capable of providing adequate power and cooling for the SMIP II. Once the
chassis is found adequate, the SMIP’s logical address and the chassis’ backplane jumpers should
be configured prior to the SMIP’s installation.

CALCULATING SYSTEM POWER AND COOLING REQUIREMENTS

It is imperative that the chassis provide adequate power and cooling for this module. Referring to
the chassis user’s manual, confirm that the power budget for the system (the chassis and all
modules installed therein) is not exceeded and that the cooling system can provide adequate
airflow at the specified backpressure.

It should be noted that if the chassis cannot provide adequate power to the module, the instrument
may not perform to specification or possibly not operate at all. In addition, if adequate cooling is
not provided, the reliability of the instrument will be jeopardized and permanent damage may
occur. Damage found to have occurred due to inadequate cooling would also void the warranty of
the module.

SETTING THE CHASSIS BACKPLANE JUMPERS

Please refer to the chassis operation manual for further details on setting the backplane jumpers.

SM8000 Series Preparation for Use 21

SETTING THE LOGICAL ADDRESS

The logical address of the SMIP II is set by two rotary switches located on the top edge of th e
interface card, near the backplane connectors. Each switch is labeled with positions 0 through F.
The switch closer to the front panel of the module is the least significant bit (LSB or “Front”),
and the switch located towards the back of the module is the most significant bit (MSB or
“Back”). To set the Logical Address (LA), simply rotate the pointer to the desired value. For
example, to set the LA to 25, first convert the decimal number to the hexadecimal value of 19.
Next, set the back switch to 1, and the front switch to 9. Two examples are provided below:

Example 1

VXI Technology, Inc.

LA

(decimal)

Divide

by 16

MSB LSB

25 25 / 16 = 1 w/ 9 remaining Divide the decimal value by 16 to get

the MSB and the LSB.

= 0001 1001 The 1 is the MSB, and the remainder of

9 is the LSB.

= 1 9 Convert to hexadecimal. Set the back

switch to 1 and the front switch to 9.

BACK FRONT

5

4

6

3

2

1

0

F

F

IGURE 2-1: LOGICAL ADDRESS EXAMPLE 1

7

8

9

A

B

E

C

D

4

5

6

3

2

1

0

F

7

8

9

A

B

E

C

D

22 SM8000 Series Preparation for Use

VXI Technology, Inc.

Example 2

LA

(decimal)

Divide

by 16

MSB LSB

200 200 / 16 = 12 w/ 8 remaining Divide by 16.

= 1100 1000 Convert to MSB and LSB.
= C 8 Convert to hexadecimal. Set the back

BACK FRONT

4

3

2

1

0

F

E

D

F

IGURE 2-2: LOGICAL ADDRESS EXAMPLE 2

Here is another way of looking at the conversion: LA = (back switch x 16) + front switch
LA = (1 x 16) + 9
LA = 16 + 9
LA = 25

Set the address switches to FF for dynamic configuration. Upon power-up, the resource manager
will assign a logical address. See Section F - Dynamic Configuration in the VXIbus Sp ecification
for further information.

There is only one logical address per SMIP II base unit. Address assignments for individual
modules are handled through the A24/A32 address space allocation.

SELECTING THE EXTENDED MEMORY SPACE

switch to C and the front switch to 8.

5

6

7

8

9

A

B

C

4

5

6

3

2

1

0

F

7

8

9

A

B

E

C

D

The Extended Memory Space of the SMIP II is set by a dip-switch that is located on the bottom
edge of the interface card. Position 1, located to the left on the dip-switch, selects between A24
and A32 memory address space. In the UP position, the SMIP II will request A24 space. In the
DOWN position, the SMIP II will request A32 space. (Position 2 is not currently used.) The
selection of the address space should be based upon the memory allocation requirements of the
system that the SMIP II module will be installed. The amount of memory allocated to the SMIP II
module is independent of the address space selected.

SM8000 Series Preparation for Use 23

OPTICAL CONNECTIONS

The SM8000 series are all shipped with dust caps over each optical connector. These dust caps
should remain in place at all times while the instrument is not in use.

Cleaning Optical Connectors

1. Clean both connectors to remove any dirt or particles, which could decrease performance or
permanently damage the connector.

a) Using high-grade isopropyl alcohol (or equivalent) dampen a cotton swab and shake off

any excess alcohol before cleaning. The cotton swab should be moist but not wet.

b) Gently clean the surface of the connector and around the connector ferrule.

c) Allow the connectors to dry for at least one minute.

Service should only be performed by qualified personnel.

Mating Optical Connectors

VXI Technology, Inc.

1. Smoothly insert the appropriate connector ferrule into the adapter taking caution not to allow
the fiber tip to make contact with any surface. If this happens, re-clean the connector and start
again.

2. Tighten the connector finger-tight; do not over-tighten. If the loss is unacceptable, remove the
connector, re-clean both connectors and start again. These steps may need to be repeated
several times before a low-loss connection is made.

3. After the connection is made, monitor the stability of the optical throughput for a few minutes
until stable. If the loss is unacceptable, re-clean the connectors and start again.

24 SM8000 Series Preparation for Use

VXI Technology, Inc.

SECTION 3

OPERATION

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

SM8001 / SM8002 - Multi-Channel Switches

The multi-channel optical switches are optical-mechanical switches that allow selection of an
individual fiber channel by means of a high-resolution stepper motor. The stepper motor moves
the common fiber into direct alignment with the output fiber. The switch module is optically
passive, operating independently of data rate, data format, and optical signal direction.

F

SM8000 Series Operation 25

IGURE 3-1: MULTI-CHANNEL SWITCH - INTERNAL COMPONENTS

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8003 - Prism Switches

The SPST switch provides channel control from one input fiber to one output fiber using a
moving shutter between fixed collimators.

The SPDT switch provides channel selection from one input fiber to two output fibers using a
moving prism between fixed collimators.

The Transfer switch provides channel selection from two input fibers to two output fibers using a
moving prism between fixed collimators.

The prism switches are actuated electrically and they operate independently of data rate and signal
format.

Output 1Input 1

Output 2

Output 1Input 1

Output 2

SPST

SPDT

Input 2

Transfer - Position 1

Input 2

Transfer - Position 2

F

IGURE 3-2: SM8003 PRISM SWITCHES

26 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8101 / SM8102 - Optical Attenuators

The Optical Attenuators are based on precise-resolution stepper motors, which mechanically
position a beam block. See

The attenuator stepper motor is attached to an off-axis cam. A pair of fiber collimators is
positioned on either side of the cam, with a short open-air beam path between them. As the motor
rotates, the cam is driven slowly into the beam path, attenuating the beam. See

When the cam is fully rotated out of the beam path, the attenuator is in park, or reset position.
When in park position, the loss is limited to the intrin sic loss of the two collimators and the air
gap, known as Insertion or Residual loss.

As the cam rotates into the beam path, attenuation increases. The relationship between motor step
position and attenuation is not linear. The incremental increases in atten uation per motor step are
very small at first. In the low range (0 dB to 5 dB), the incremental attenuation per step is
approximately 0.05 dB. In the high range (50 dB to 60 dB), attenuation increases much more
quickly at approximately 0.25 dB per step.

Figure 3-3 for the basic concepts.

Figure 3-2.

SM8000 Series Operation 27

F

IGURE 3-3: ATTENUATOR DIAGRAM

OPERATION

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8001 / SM8002 - Multi-Channel Switches

When controlling multi-switch modules, the operation is quite similar to that of any other SMIP II
family product, but the data sent is operated on a little bit differently. The SM8000 must be
configured to control the multi-switch device on one of four ports. This is done at the factory with
hardware selectable jumpers. Once configured for multi-switch operation, the control of the
switch is accomplished by writing to the appropriate Relay Register. Relay registers 02 through 08
are used to control the multi-switch modules. The value written to the multi-switch module is
dependent on the type/size of the switch.

For example, if the switch is a 1xN switch, writing the value of 00h to Relay Register 02 would
optically connect the switches input to the first output. A write of 0Ah would connect the input to

th

output, and so on. Data lines 4 through 0 are used to transfer data to the switch modules.

the 11

The Busy signal from the optical module may be monitored to indicate when the optical module
has completed moving to the commanded switch setting. The optical module also generates an
Error signal that may be monitored. This signal might be used to provide a confidence check that
the module is being controlled properly.

Resetting the Switch

When the switch is in reset (park) position, channel zero, or optical off, there is no optical
connection to any output channel. Set the switch to the reset position to prevent optical data from
passing through the switch, or to reset the stepper motor. During a reset operation, optical noise
may appear on various output channels as the armature rotates.

There are two ways to reset the switch. The first is to cycle power to return the switch to the reset
position. The second is to return the switch to the reset position using a sequence of writes to the
SMIP module rather than interrupting the supply power. See the example of a multi-switch reset
write sequence as described later in this manual. The BUSY output remains high until the reset
operation is complete and the device is ready to receive additional instructions.

Relay Registers - Output Channel Selection

The following sections show information to select channels for the SM8001/8002 through the
relay registers. Each configuration section includes an optical input/output relation figure,
followed by a table that lists the control codes for channel selection.

28 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

1 x N Switch Configuration

0

1

1
2
3

.

.

.

N

F

IGURE 3-4: 1 X N SWITCH CONFIGURATION

ABLE 3-1: CONTROL CODES FOR 1XN CONFIGURATION

T

RESET* D4 D3 D2 D1 D0 Active Channel

0 x x x x x 0 reset
1 0 0 0 0 0 1
1 0 0 0 0 1 2
1 0 0 0 1 0 3
1 0 0 0 1 1 4
1 0 0 1 0 0 5
1 0 0 1 0 1 6
1 0 0 1 1 0 7
1 0 0 1 1 1 8
1 0 1 0 0 0 9
1 0 1 0 0 1 10
1 0 1 0 1 0 11
1 0 1 0 1 1 12
1 0 1 1 0 0 13
1 0 1 1 0 1 14
1 0 1 1 1 0 15
1 0 1 1 1 1 16
1 1 0 0 0 0 17
1 1 0 0 0 1 18
1 1 0 0 1 0 19
1 1 0 0 1 1 20
1 1 0 1 0 0 21
1 1 0 1 0 1 22
1 1 0 1 1 0 23
1 1 0 1 1 1 24
1 1 1 0 0 0 25
1 1 1 0 0 1 26
1 1 1 0 1 0 27
1 1 1 0 1 1 28
1 1 1 1 0 0 29
1 1 1 1 0 1 30
1 1 1 1 1 0 31
1 1 1 1 1 1 32

SM8000 Series Operation 29

VXI Technology, Inc.

Duplex 1 x N Switch Configuration

0

0

1
2

1-1
1-2
2-1
2-2

.

.

.

N-1
N-2

F

IGURE 3-5: DUPLEX 1 X N SWITCH CONFIGURATION

ABLE 3-2: CONTROL CODES FOR DUPLEX 1 X N CONFIGURATION

T

RESET* D4 D3 D2 D1 D0

Common 1

Active Channel

0 x x x x x 0 reset 0 reset
1 0 0 0 0 0 1-1 1-2
1 0 0 0 0 1 2-1 2-2
1 0 0 0 1 0 3-1 3-2
1 0 0 0 1 1 4-1 4-2
1 0 0 1 0 0 5-1 5-2
1 0 0 1 0 1 6-1 6-2
1 0 0 1 1 0 7-1 7-2
1 0 0 1 1 1 8-1 8-2
1 0 1 0 0 0 9-1 9-2
1 0 1 0 0 1 10-1 10-2
1 0 1 0 1 0 11-1 11-2
1 0 1 0 1 1 12-1 12-2
1 0 1 1 0 0 13-1 13-2
1 0 1 1 0 1 14-1 14-2
1 0 1 1 1 0 15-1 15-2
1 0 1 1 1 1 16-1 16-2
1 1 0 0 0 0 17-1 17-2
1 1 0 0 0 1 18-1 18-2
1 1 0 0 1 0 19-1 19-2
1 1 0 0 1 1 20-1 20-2
1 1 0 1 0 0 21-1 21-2
1 1 0 1 0 1 22-1 22-2
1 1 0 1 1 0 23-1 23-2
1 1 0 1 1 1 24-1 24-2
1 1 1 0 0 0 25-1 25-2

Common 2

Active Channel

30 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

2 x N Blocking Switch Configuration

-1
0

block

2
1

block
block

block

1
2
3

.

.

.

N

F

IGURE 3-6 2 X N BLOCKING SWITCH CONFIGURATION

ABLE 3-3: CONTROL CODES FOR 2 X N BLOCKING CONFIGURATION

T

RESET* D4 D3 D2 D1 D0

Common 1

Output Channel

Common 2

Output Channel

0 x x x x x 0 reset -1 reset
1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 block
1 0 0 0 0 1 block 1
1 0 0 0 1 0 2 block
1 0 0 0 1 1 block 2
1 0 0 1 0 0 3 block
1 0 0 1 0 1 block 3
1 0 0 1 1 0 4 block
1 0 0 1 1 1 block 4
1 0 1 0 0 0 5 block
1 0 1 0 0 1 block 5
1 0 1 0 1 0 6 block
1 0 1 0 1 1 block 6
1 0 1 1 0 0 7 block
1 0 1 1 0 1 block 7
1 0 1 1 1 0 8 block
1 0 1 1 1 1 block 8
1 1 0 0 0 0 9 block
1 1 0 0 0 1 block 9
1 1 0 0 1 0 10 block
1 1 0 0 1 1 block 10
1 1 0 1 0 0 11 block
1 1 0 1 0 1 block 11
1 1 0 1 1 0 12 block
1 1 0 1 1 1 block 12
1 1 1 0 0 0 13 block
1 1 1 0 0 1 block 13
1 1 1 0 1 0 14 block
1 1 1 0 1 1 block 14
1 1 1 1 0 0 15 block
1 1 1 1 0 1 block 15
1 1 1 1 1 0 16 block
1 1 1 1 1 1 block 16

SM8000 Series Operation 31

2 x N Non-Blocking Switch Configuration

-1
0

2
1

block

1
2
3

.

.

.

N

F

IGURE 3-7: 2 X N NON-BLOCKING SWITCH CONFIGURATION

ABLE 3-4: CONTROL CODES FOR 2 X N NON-BLOCKING CONFIGURATION

T

VXI Technology, Inc.

RESET* D4 D3 D2 D1 D0

Common 1

Active Channel

Common 2

Active Channel

0 x x x x x 0 reset -1 reset
1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 block
1 0 0 0 0 1 2 1
1 0 0 0 1 0 3 2
1 0 0 0 1 1 4 3
1 0 0 1 0 0 5 4
1 0 0 1 0 1 6 5
1 0 0 1 1 0 7 6
1 0 0 1 1 1 8 7
1 0 1 0 0 0 9 8
1 0 1 0 0 1 10 9
1 0 1 0 1 0 11 10
1 0 1 0 1 1 12 11
1 0 1 1 0 0 13 12
1 0 1 1 0 1 14 13
1 0 1 1 1 0 15 14
1 0 1 1 1 1 16 15
1 1 0 0 0 0 17 16
1 1 0 0 0 1 18 17
1 1 0 0 1 0 19 18
1 1 0 0 1 1 20 19
1 1 0 1 0 0 21 20
1 1 0 1 0 1 22 21
1 1 0 1 1 0 23 22
1 1 0 1 1 1 24 23
1 1 1 0 0 0 25 24
1 1 1 0 0 1 26 25
1 1 1 0 1 0 27 26
1 1 1 0 1 1 28 27
1 1 1 1 0 0 29 28
1 1 1 1 0 1 30 29
1 1 1 1 1 0 31 30
1 1 1 1 1 1 block

a

31

32 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

REGISTER

WRITE

BUSY

OUTPUT

Calculating Switching Time

The time-period for switching a channel can be divided into three co nstituent periods. The first
time-period ends when the BUSY signal goes high. For calculating switching time, however, only
the last two periods are used.

The second time-period starts when BUSY goes high and the switch armature begins to move.
There is a 16 ms period until the armature reaches the specified output channel. There is a 16 ms
period for each switched channel, including duplex and blocked channels. During this period,
optical output is invalid; optical noise may appear on various output channels as the armature
rotates.

The third time-period is called the debounce period. It ends when the armature is steady, the
switch has established a valid optical connection, and BUSY goes low. The debounce period lasts
for 300 ms.

Switching time is the sum of the second and third time-periods. For example:

16ms

F

IGURE 3-8: MULTI-SWITCH TIMING

300ms

Switch from Channel 15 to Channel 1 (1 x N Configuration)
Switches through 14 channels
(14 x 16 ms) + 300 ms = 524 ms

Switch from Channel 2 to Channel 6 (2 x N Blocking Configuration)
Switches through 2 x 4 (8) channels
(8 x 16 ms) + 300 ms = 428 ms

SM8000 Series Operation 33

VXI Technology, Inc.

SM8003 - Prism Switches

When controlling single mode prism switches the operation of the SM8000 is also similar to that
of any other SMIP II family product. The switches are directly controlled by register writes to the
Relay Register. See Writing to the Relay Register in the Programming section for a detailed
explanation of this type of operation. Only relay register 00h is used to control the prism switches.

SM8101 / SM8102 - Optical Attenuators

The attenuator modules are internally controlled via an I2C bus interface. Operation of this type of
module is accomplished by loading the proper command and attenuator data information into the
proper registers inside the SM8000.

The SM8000 must be configured to control the attenuator modules on one of four ports. These
same ports are used for the multi-switch devices. This is done at the factory with hardware
selectable jumpers. Once configured for attenuator module operation, the control of the attenuator
module consists of writing the control word and the attenuator data word to the SM8000. This
operation is more fully discussed in the Programming section of this manual.

Once the Relay Register (02 through 08) has been configured to control an attenuator, and has
been written to, the command sequence is initiated and the module begins to move to the newly
commanded setting. The Busy signal from the optical module may be monitored to indicate when
the optical module has finished moving to the commanded attenuation. The optical module also
generates an Error signal that may be monitored. This signal might be used to provide a
confidence check that the module is being controlled properly.

34 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

Starting the Device

The device resets upon application of power. The Optical Attenuators park at the minimum-loss
position.

Control Modes

The Optical Attenuators can be operated in two modes: uncalibrated and calibrated. The
uncalibrated mode is called Move-To-Absolute-Step mode. In this mode, the user sends
movement requests to the internal stepping motor through the Move-To-Absolute-Step interface.
The internal stepping motor responds by moving one step up, or one step down as requested. In
this mode, there is no conversion of step number to absolute attenuation.

Move-To-Absolute-Step is the simplest mode of operation. This method of operation is typically
used when devices are used in a feedback loop to maintain a particular attenuation regardless of
absolute position.

The calibrated, absolute conversion mode of operation sends absolute attenuation requests to the
Optical Attenuator. The circuitry then translates the commanded absolute request into a motor­step position and rotates the motor accordingly. This method of operation is typically used when
the devices are used to calibrate other devices, or to set absolute references within a system.

Both modes of operation are described in detail in the following sections.

Uncalibrated Operation - Move-To-Absolute-Step

The motorized Optical Attenuators are all based on stepping motor technology. The easiest
method of using these devices is to simply command the motor to step in one direction, or the
other. For our purposes, stepping will increase attenuation, while stepping down will decrease
attenuation.

To utilize this mode of operation, simply command the Optical Attenuator to Move-To-Ab solute­Step. See the Attenuator Command Set in the Programming section.

Calibrated Operation

The Optical Attenuators are all based on stepping motor technology. Operating in the calibrated
mode requires use of the I

2

C interface is a linearized controller, allowing users to select for the attenuator, he absolute

The I

2

C interface on the optical modules.

attenuation in dB.

It is also possible to command uncalibrated step movements while operating in calibrated mode.
Note that following an uncalibrated step, a Query Attenuation command will return invalid data.
A subsequent calibrated movement will restore query command validity.

SM8000 Series Operation 35

VXI Technology, Inc.

BUSY Signal

The BUSY bit is driven high by the device whenever a Set Attenuation command is received, or
when a RESET signal is received. The BUSY signal remains high whenever a command is
executed and the stepper motor is moving. During this time, no other commands should be sent to
the device, as this may corrupt the internal state of the device requiring a RESET to clear.

ERROR Status

The ERROR bit is driven high by the device whenever an Out of Range error, or a RESET error is
detected. RESET errors occur when the unit does not find its Park position correctly, and may
indicate a hardware problem.

Resetting the Device

See the RESET commands in the Programming section.

Commanding the Devices

Step 1 - Power Up and Initialize

The device will reset when power is applied.

Step 2 - Query Default Parameters

Before using the device in calibrated mode, query to obtain the minimum and maximum absolute
attenuation. Use this data to ensure that commands sent are always within range. The commands
to gather the device information are:

• Query Minimum Attenuation - 82h

• Query Maximum Attenuation - 83h

Step 3 - Actuate the Device

Use the appropriate Set commands and actuate the device. For verification purposes, pick a large
change first to ensure proper operation of the device. Very small changes can be requested,
however, they can be misleading for test purposes since they are practically undetectable. The
command to actuate the device is:

• Set Attenuation - 80h

36 SM8000 Series Operation

VXI Technology, Inc.

SECTION 4

PROGRAMMING

REGISTER ACCESS

The SMIP II optical modules are VXIbus register-based devices. Register-based programming is a
series of reads and writes directly to the switch module registers. This eliminates the time for
command parsing thus increasing speed.

ADDRESSING

The VTI switching modules utilize either the A24 or A32 space of the shared-memory
architecture. To read or write to a module register, a register address needs to be specified. This is
done by using the offset value (assigned by the resource manager) and multiplying it by 256 or 64
k to get the base address in A24 or A32 address space, respectively

A24 Base Address = Offset value * 0x00FF (or 256)

A32 Base Address = Offset value * 0xFFFF (or 65,535)

The A24 or A32 offset value, assigned by the resource manager, can also be accessed by reading
the A16 Offset Register. To address the A16 Offset Register use the following formula:

A16 Base Address = (Logical Address * 64) + 0xC000 (or 49,152)

then

A16 Offset Register Address = A16 Base Address + 6

See following for the A16 Memory Map and the A24/A32 address space allocation.

SM8000 Series Programming 37

VXI Technology, Inc.

TABLE 4-1: SMIP II REGISTER MAP - A16

OFFSET WRITE FUNCTION READ FUNCTION

3E Trace Advance Board Busy
3C Busy Trigger Control Busy Trigger Control
3A Trace RAM Control Trace RAM Control
38 TTL Trigger Polarity Reserved
36 Open Trigger Select Reserved
34 Trace ADV Trigger Select Reserved
32 Trace RAM Address LOW Trace RAM Address LOW
30 Trace RAM Address HIGH Trace RAM Address HIGH
2E Trace RAM End LOW Trace RAM End LOW
2C Trace RAM End HIGH Trace RAM End HIGH
2A Trace RAM Start LOW Trace RAM Start LOW
28 Trace RAM Start HIGH Trace RAM Start HIGH
26 Module 5, 4 Used Address Module 5, 4 Used Address
24 Module 3, 2 Used Address Module 3, 2 Used Address
22 Module 1, 0 Used Address Module 1, 0 Used Address
20 NVM Access Register NVM Access Register

1E Reserved Subclass Register
1C Interrupt Control Interrupt Control
1A Reserved Interrupt Status
18 Reserved Reserved
16 Reserved Reserved
14 Reserved Reserved
12 Reserved Reserved
10 Reserved Reserved

E Reserved Version Number
C Reserved Serial Number LOW
A Reserved Serial Number HIGH

8 Reserved Reserved

6 Offset Register Offset Register

4 Control Register Status Register

2 Reserved Device Type Register

0 LA Register ID Register

38 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

SMIP II REGISTERS - A16

The following describes the registers shown in the SMIP II Register Map for A16 address space.

ADDR

Plug-In LA+0x00

D11-D0 Manufacturer's ID VXI Technology, Inc., set to F4B
D13-D12 Address Space
D15-D14 Device Class Extended register based device, set to 01

ADDR

Plug-In LA+0x00

D7-D0 Logical Address

D15-D8 Reserved Writing to this range has no effect.

ADDR

Plug-In LA+0x02

D11-D0 Model Code Model 277, set to 115
D15-D12 Required Memory

ADDR

Plug-In LA+0x04

D15 A24/A32 Active

D14 MODID*

D13-D4 Reserved These bits always read as 11,1111,11112

D3 Ready This bit always reads as 12
D2 Passed This bit always reads as 12

D1-D0 Reserved These bits always read as 112

ID Register – Read Only

16

A16/A24

= 00

2

A16/A32 = 012

Logical Address Register – Write Only

Sets the new logical address in a dynamically configured module.
When set for dynamic configuration (set to FF
not alter the configured logical address, while a hard reset will set
the register back to FF

.

16

Device Type Register – Read Only

16

2 Mbytes, set to 2
2 Mbytes, set to A

, for A24

16

, for A32

16

Status Register – Read Only

1 = indicates that A24/A32 memory space access is enabled
0 = indicates that A24/A32 memory space access is locked out
1 = indicates that the module is not selected by the MODID line
0 = indicates that the module is selected by the MODID line

2

) a soft reset will

16

SM8000 Series Programming 39

VXI Technology, Inc.

Control Register – Write Only

ADDR

D15 A24/A32 Enable

D14-D2 Reserved Writes to these bits have no effect.

D1 Sysfail Inhibit

D0 Reset

Plug-In LA+0x04

1 = write a 1 to this bit to enable A24/A32 memory access
0 = to disable access

Write a 1 to this bit to prevent the module from asserting the
SYSFAIL* line.
1 = write a 1 to this bit to force the module into a reset state
0 = write a 0 to release the reset state

Offset Register – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D0

Plug-In LA+0x06

A24/A32 Memory

Offset

The value written to this 16-bit register, times 256, sets the base
address of the A24 memory space used by the module. The value
written to this 16-bit register, times 65,536, sets the base address
of the A32 memory space used by the module. A read from this
register reflects the previously written value. Because of the
required memory size, bits D4-D0 are disregarded on writes and
always read back as 0s. Upon receiving a hard reset, all bits in
this register are set to 0s. A soft reset does not effect the value in
this register. The resource manager sets this register.

Serial Number High Register – Read Only

ADDR

D15-D0 Not Implemented Always read back as FFFF

Plug-In LA+0x0A

16

Serial Number Low Register – Read Only

ADDR

D15-D0 Not Implemented Always read back as FFFF

Plug-In LA+0x0C

16

Version Number Register – Read Only

ADDR

D15-D8

D7-D4

D3-D0

Plug-In LA+0x0E

Firmware Version

Number

Major Hardware
Version Number
Minor Hardware
Version Number

Not applicable, reads back as FF
Depends on the specific hardware revision of the SMIP II

interface board.
Depends on the specific hardware revision of the SMIP II
interface board.

16

40 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

ADDR

D15

D14

D13-D8

D7-D0 Reserved Always reads back as FFFF

Note: This status register may be used in a polled fashion rather than allowing the events above to
generate an Interrupt. A read o f this register will clear any active bits. Bits that are not set, or
are about to be set, are not affected by a read of this register.

ADDR

D15

D14

D13-D8

D7 IR ENA*

D6 IH ENA*

D5-D3

D2-D0 Handler IRQ Line

Note: That all bits in this register are set to 1s upon receipt of a hard or soft reset.

ADDR

D15

D14-D0

Interrupt Status Register – Read Only

Plug-In LA+0x1A

Scan Function

done

Openbus Active

Event true

Modules 0-5 Busy

complete

Interrupt Control Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x1C

Scan Function

done mask bit

Openbus Active

Event true mask bit

Module 0-5 Busy

complete

Interrupter IRQ

Line

Plug-In LA+0x1E

VXIbus Extended

Device

Extended Memory

Device

The latest scan list update is complete.
The Openbus was activated by one or more programmed inputs.

See description of the Openbus in the module register section.
D13 = Module 5, … and D8 = Module 0.

The programmed Busy signal from one of the modules has timed
out. This indicates that the relays actuated for that BUSY cycle
have settled and a measurement may take place.

16

0 = enabled
1 = disabled
0 = enabled
1 = disabled
0 = enabled
1 = disabled

D13 = Module 5 … and D8 = Module 0.
0 = writing a 0 to this bit enables interrupter capabilities
1 = writing a 1 to this bit disables interrupter capabilities
The module has no interrupt handler capability, therefore writing a
1 or 0 has no effect. A 1 is always read back for this bit.
The complement of the value programmed into these three bits
reflects the selected IRQ line used by the module. A value of 011
would select IRQ4, a value of 000
value of 111

would disconnect the IRQ lines.

2

would select IRQ7, and a

2

The module has no interrupt handler capability; therefore writing
to these bits has no effect. A 1112 is always read back for these
bits.

Subclass Register – Read Only

Always reads as 1.

Always reads as 7FFD

16

2

SM8000 Series Programming 41

VXI Technology, Inc.

NVM Access Register – Read

ADDR

D15-D1 Unused All Bits are always 1.

D0

Plug-In LA+0x20

Reads back the serial data stream from the selected SMIP II board.
Note that only one SMIP II board may be read back at a time.

NVM Access Register – Write

ADDR

D15-D7 Unused Data written to these bits have no effect.

D6 Serial clock for module 5; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D5 Serial clock for module 4; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D4 Serial clock for module 3; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D3 Serial clock for module 2; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D2 Serial clock for module 1; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D1 Serial clock for module 0; should be a logic 1 when not used.
D0 Serial data input for all modules; must be a logic 1 when not used.

Plug-In LA+0x20

Board X, Y Used Address Register – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D8

D7-D0

Plug-In LA+0x22 to 0x26

Sets the actual number of words of address space used by the
relays on board's X.
Sets the actual number of words of address space used by the
relays on board's Y.

Trace RAM Start High Register – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D4 Unused Data written to these bits have no affect and read back as 1s.

D3-D0

Plug-In LA+0x28

Sets the four most significant bits of the starting address of the
Trace RAM, allowing the available RAM to be divided into
multiple traces.

Trace RAM Start Low Register – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D0

Plug-In LA+0x2A

Sets the 16 least significant bits of the starting address of the Trace
RAM, allowing the available RAM to be divided into multiple
traces.

42 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

ADDR

D15-D4 Unused Data written to these bits have no affect and read back as 1s.

D3-D0

ADDR

D15-D0

ADDR

D15-D4 Unused Data written to these bits have no affect and read back as 1s.

D3-D0

ADDR

D15-D0

ADDR

D15-D8

D7-D0

Trace RAM End High Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x2C

Sets the four most significant bits of the ending address of the
Trace RAM, allowing the available RAM to be divided into
multiple traces.

Trace RAM End Low Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x2E

Sets the 16 least significant bits of the ending address of the Trace
RAM, allowing the available RAM to be divided into multiple
traces.

Trace RAM Address HIGH Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x30

Sets and reads back the four most significant bits of the current
address of the Trace RAM, allowing the current trace RAM
address to be queried and changed.

Trace RAM Address LOW Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x32

Sets and reads back the sixteen least significant bits of the current
address of the Trace RAM, allowing the current trace RAM
address to be queried and changed.

Trace Advance Trigger Select Register – Write Only

Plug-In LA+0x34

Sets the TTLTRIG line or lines, which are configured as outputs,
and will toggle when Trace Advance condition occurs in the
module. D15 corresponds to TTLTRIG7, D14 to TTLTRIG6, …
and D8 to TTLTRIG0. Setting a bit to a 1 enables the trigger line,
setting a bit to 0 disables the corresponding line. All bits are set to
0s when either a soft or a hard reset is received by the module.
Sets the TTLTRIG line or lines, which are configured as inputs,
and will cause a Trace Advance event to occur in the module. D7
corresponds to TTLTRIG7, D6 to TTLTRIG6, … and D0 to
TTLTRIG0. Setting a bit to a 1 enables the trigger line, setting a
bit to 0 disables the corresponding line. All enabled TTLTRIG
lines are OR’d together to allow more than one TTLTRIG line to
cause a Trace Advance event to occur. All bits are set to 0s when
the module receives either a soft or a hard reset.

SM8000 Series Programming 43

VXI Technology, Inc.

Open Trigger Select Register – Write Only

ADDR

D15-D8

D7-D0

Plug-In LA+0x36

Sets the TTLTRIG line or lines, which are configures as outputs,
and will toggle when Relay Open condition occurs in the module.
D15 corresponds to TTLTRIG7, D14 to TTLTRIG6, … and D8 to
TTLTRIG0. Setting a bit to a 1 enables the trigger line, setting a
bit to 0 disables the corresponding line. All bits are set to 0s when
either a soft or a hard reset is received by the module.
Sets the TTLTRIG line or lines, which are configured as inputs,
and will cause a Relay Open event to occur in the module. D7
corresponds to TTLTRIG7, D6 to TTLTRIG6, … and D0 to
TTLTRIG0. Setting a bit to a 1 enables the trigger line, setting a
bit to 0 disables the corresponding line. All enabled TTLTRIG
lines are OR’d together to allow more than one TTLTRIG line to
cause a Relay Open event to occur. All bits are set to 0s when the
module receives either a soft or a hard reset.

TTL Trigger Polarity Register – Write Only

ADDR

D15-D14 Unused Data written to these bits have no affect.

D13-D8 FAIL LED Control D13 is for module 5 … D8 is for module 0. 0 = off, 1 = on.

D4

D3

D2

D1

D0

Note: A hard or a soft reset sets D3-D0 to 0 s.

Plug-In LA+0x38

Board Busy

Trigger Slope

Relay Open Input

Slope

Relay Open Output

Slope

Trace Advance

Input Slope

Trace Advance

Output Slope

0 acts on the falling edge, 1 acts on the rising edge.

0 acts on the falling edge, 1 acts on the rising edge.

0 sets the falling edge active, 1 sets the rising edge active.

0 advances on the falling edge, 1 advances on the rising edge.

0 sets the falling edge active, 1 sets the rising edge active.

44 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

ADDR

D15-D10 Modules Installed

D9-D4

D3-D2 Unused

D1 LOOP ENABLE

D0 TRACE ENABLE

ADDR

D15-D8 TTLTRIG Select

D7-D6 Unused

D5-D0

Trace RAM Control Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x3A

D15 is for module 5 ... D10 is for module 0. Set to 0 if the module
is installed or set to a 1 if not installed. These bits are set to 0 at
power on. By setting a 1, the SMIP II Interface PCB will generate
DTACK* for any read or write cycles to the memory space of the
uninstalled plug-in modules.

Modules used in

trace mode

D9 is for module 5 ... D4 is for module 0. Set to 1 if the module is
used in trace mode, set to 0 if not in trace mode.
Data written to these bits have no effect. The value written is read
back.
1 = enabled
0 = disabled

If enabled, the trace resumes at the start of active RAM and
continues from there. If disabled, the trace stops at the end of
active RAM and clears the TRACE ENABLE bit.
1 = enabled
0 = disabled

If the LOOP ENABLE bit is set and the end of active trace RAM
is reached, this bit will not be reset.

Busy Trigger Control Register – Read and Write

Plug-In LA+0x3C

Sets the TTLTRIG Line or Lines, which are configured as outputs,
and will toggle at the de-assertion of a Board Busy condition sent
by the plug-in modules. D15 corresponds to TTLTRIG7, D14 to
TTLTRIG6, … and D8 to TTLTRIG0. Setting a bit to a 1, enables
the trigger line, setting a bit to a 0, disables the corresponding line.
All bits are set to 0's when either a soft or a hard reset is received
by the module.
Data written to these bits have no effect. The value written is read
back.
Enables the Board Busy signals received from the plug-in modules
to generate a trigger condition on the TTL Trigger Bus. D5
corresponds to Board Busy Module 5, D4 to Board Busy Module
4, … and D0 to Board Busy Module 0. Setting a bit to a 1, enables
the generation of a Trigger condition, setting a bit to a 0, disables

Busy Trigger

Enable

the corresponding line. All bits are set to 0's when either a soft or a
hard reset is received by the module.

Software can be written to enable the last board updated to
generate the TTLTrigger condition, alerting any other instruments
that the plug0in modules' relays have settled. Alternatively, all of
the plug-in modules may be enabled to generate the TTLTrigger
condition.

SM8000 Series Programming 45

VXI Technology, Inc.

Trigger Advance Register – Write Only

ADDR

D15-D0 Unused

Plug-In LA+0x3E

The act of writing to this location causes a Trace Advance event to
occur in the module. The specific data written to these bits has no
affect.

Board Busy Register – Read Only

ADDR

D15-D7 Unused These bits always read back as 1s.

D6

D5

D4

D3

D2

D1

D0

Plug-In LA+0x3E

Indicates whether the SMIP platform is a single or double-slot.
0 = single-slot
1 = double-slot
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 5 have
settled. A 1 indicates that the relays on module 5 are still changing
state.
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 4 have settle.
A 1 indicates that the relays on module 4 are still changing state.
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 3 have
settled. A 1 indicates that the relays on module 3 are still changing
state.
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 2 have
settled. A 1 indicates that the relays on module 2 are still changing
state.
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 1 have
settled. A 1 indicates that the relays on module 1 are still changing
state.
A 0 read from this bit indicates the relays on module 0 have
settled. A 1 indicates that the relays on module 0 are still changing
state.

Reserved Registers – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D0 Unused

N/A

Writing to these registers has no effect and will always read back
as FFFF

.

16

46 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

VXI Configuration Space
2MB of A24 or A32

Address Space reserved
for VTI SMIP module
(assigned by the
controller).

1MB RAM

1M Memory Allocated

to Store Module

Settings

1MB RAM

Unused

Module 0 Config. - 256 bytes
Module 0 Relays - 256 bytes

FIGURE 4-1: SM8000 SERIES - A24/A32 ADDRESS SPACE

1M Memory Allocated

for Configuration/

Relay Registers

SM8000 Series Programming 47

VXI Technology, Inc.

MODULE REGISTERS - SM8000 SERIES CONTROLLER - A24 / A32 - EXTENDED MEMORY

This module is assigned 1 k (1024) bytes of memory as shown in the SMIP II
Configuration/Relay Register Map for A24/A32 address space. The upper 512 bytes of memory
space are unused. The lower 512 bytes of memory are split in half, and form the standard module
configuration and relay registers. The following describes these registers.

Control Register – Read and Write

ADDR

D15

D14

D13

D12

D11-D10 Unused

D9

D8

Plug-In LA+0x100

Reset

Module 4

Reset

Module 3

Reset

Module 2

Reset

Module 1

Relay Data Read

Back Polarity Bit

ACFAILN Enable

Bit

0 = Normal operation
1 = Optical module reset

Resets the optical module located at module base address plus 8h.
See Typical Optical Multi Switch Operation.
0 = Normal operation
1 = Optical module reset

Resets the optical module located at module base address plus 6h.
See Typical Optical Multi Switch Operation.
0 = Normal operation
1 = Optical module reset

Resets the optical module located at module base address plus 4h.
See Typical Optical Multi Switch Operation.
0 = Normal operation
1 = Optical module reset

Resets the optical module located at module base address plus 2h.
See Typical Optical Multi Switch Operation.

0 = Normal polarity relay data is read back from this module
1 = Inverted polarity relay data is read back from this module
Pon state = 0

This bit may be used to invert the relay data read back from the
plug-in module. Control, Delay, and Status Register read backs are
not effected by this bit.
0 = ACFAILN is enabled to reset this module's relays
1 = ACFAILN is disabled from resetting this module's relays
Pon state = 0

48 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

Control Register (cont.)

D7

D6

D5

D4

BBM (Break-

Before-Make) /

MBB (Make-

Before-Break)

Enable Bit

BBM/MBB Select

Bit

Access LED Fail

Bit

Relay Reset Enable

Bit

0 = BBM/MBB operation on this plug-in module is disabled
1 = BBM/MBB operation on this plug-in module is enabled
Pon state = 0

If this bit is set, the relays on this module will be sequenced to
effect proper BBM or MBB operation. If this bit is not set, the
plug-in module will process the newly written relay data as
immediate data, writing it directly to the relay driver ports. No
BBM or MBB sequencing will take place.

While this feature is enabled, the initial write to the module will
start the delay timer running and begin the BBM or MBB
operation. Since the relays are controlled by the 16-bit registers,
only the effected 16 relays will perform the BBM/MBB operation.
To overcome this fact, any subsequent writes to the module,
during the initial delay timer time-out period, will be accepted and
processed. In addition, the delay time will be reset and begin
counting down again. Once the delay timer has timed-out (this
indicates that the relays have settled into their BBM/MBB state),
writes to the module will not be accepted and may result in a Bus
Error depending on the value programmed into the delay timer.
This is because the delay timer is reset at the end of the initial
time-out and is used to time the final relay closure into their post
BBM/MBB state. The module Busy signal will only complete
once the final relay closure state is reached.

If this bit is set and no value has been loaded into the Delay
Register, the plug-in module will act as if this enable bit is not set
and load all of the relay drivers with immediate data.

*This bit is unused on the SM8000 and should always be sent to 0.
0 = BBM operation on this plug-in module is selected
1 = MBB operation on this plug-in module is selected
Pon state = 0

*This bit is unused on the SM8000 and should always be sent to 0.
0 = non-active
1 = active
Pon state = 0
0 = The Openbus signal is not enabled to reset this module's relays
1 = The Openbus signal may be selected to reset this module's
relays
Pon state = 0

Note: Bit D3 must be set to 1 also, to allow the OpenBus signal to
reset this module’s relays

SM8000 Series Programming 49

VXI Technology, Inc.

Control Register (cont.)

0 = The Openbus signal is not selected to reset this module's relays
1 = The Openbus signal is selected to reset this module's relays

D3

D2-D0 Unused

Relay Reset Select

Bit

Pon state = 0

Many plug-in modules may be programmed to be listeners on the
Openbus.

Delay Register - Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D0

Plug-In LA+0x102

Data Bus

16 Bit

This register is used to set the time that the plug-in module will
hold the Board Busy signal active. The Board Busy signal is set
every time the plug-in receives a Write to a relevant Relay
Register memory space. The Board Busy signal will be removed at
the end of the time out that is set b y the value contained in this
register. For each count loaded into this register, the Board Busy
signal will be held active for 1μs. The delay may be set from 0 to
approximately 65ms, thus accommodating a wide variation in test
station requirements.

This function is only relevant to the operation of the prism
switches. Writes to the optical multi switch and attenuator
modules hold the Board Busy signal active until the optical
channel has settled.

The Board Busy signal may be monitored by the user, in either a
polled or an interrupt fashion, and is to be used as an indication
that the relays in the newly actuated path have settled.
Alternatively, the Board Busy signal may also be used to drive the
TTL Trigger Bus. See the Board Busy, Interrupt Control and Busy
Trigger Control Register descriptions in the A16 address space.

50 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

ADDR

D15-D13

D12-D8 Unused

D7-D4

D3-D0

Plug-In LA+0x104

Hardware Revision

Code

Optical Module

Access Fail Bits

Optical Module

Error Bits

Status Register – Read Only

0 = Indicates that optical module 3 thru 0, respectively, have not
detected a communications error. This is the normal quiescent
state.
1 = Indicates that the optical module indicated has detected a
communications error, and may or may not have processed the last
command sent to it. May be used to identify a module that has
become unresponsive.
Pon state = 0

A read of this bit location will indicate whether the optical module
indicated has detected a communications error. These bits are
normally not used by the operator. Their usefulness is only in
trouble shooting possible module problems.
0 = Indicates that optical module 3 thru 0, respectively, are
operating normally. This is the normal quiescent state.
1 = Indicates that the optical module has set its Error Output to
indicate an error condition. This signal is used to identify a module
that is operating in error.
Pon state = 0

Possible reasons for this bit being set by the optical module in
question are:

1) Requested channel on a multi switch module is out of range,
user error.

2) Stepper motor error has occurred, device malfunction.

3) Proximity sensor switch error has occurred, device
malfunction.

4) Requested attenuation is out of range, user error.

The module Error Bits should be polled by the user to determine
proper module operation.

SM8000 Series Programming 51

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Register – Write Only

ADDR

D15-D12 Read Byte Count

D11-D8 Write Byte Count

D7-D0

Note: See Command Register later in this section.

Plug-In LA+0x106

Command Byte to

Optical Module

This nibble holds the number of bytes that are to be read back
from the optical module. The value loaded into this nibble is
dependent on the command that is required to execute in the lower
byte of this register. See the Optical Attenuator Operation section
of the manual for the specific number of data bytes to be read back
for each command. The count range is 0 to 7 bytes.

The number of data bytes being read back, plus 1, must be loaded
into this nibble.
This nibble holds the number of bytes that are to be written to the
optical module. The value loaded into this nibble is dependent on
the command that is required to execute in the lower byte of this
register. See the Optical Attenuator Operation section of the
manual for the specific number of data bytes to be sent for each
command. The count range is 0 to 7 bytes.

The Address, the Command Register, and the number of data
bytes being sent must all be added together to calculate the
number that is loaded into this nibble.

I.e., The number of data bytes being sent, plus 2, must be loaded
into this nibble.
This Command Byte is sent to the optical module being controlled.
See the Optical Attenuator Operation section of the manual for
specific definitions of all the defined commands.

This command byte must be set prior to writing to the optical
module’s data (attenuation level) register.

52 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

ADDR

D15-D7 Unused

D6-D0

Address Register – Write Only

Plug-In LA+0x108

Address Byte to

Optical Module

This Address Byte is sent to the optical module being addressed.
See the Optical Attenuator Operation section of the manual for the
operation of the Address register.

To operate the modules correctly, the SM8000 must be loaded
with a valid Address in the Address Register. The SM8000 is hard
coded with the optical modules default address of 73 => 49h and
may be used to generate the address required in the command
string. This is the address of all attenuators as shipped from the
factory. During the programming of the optical module, the
programmer may wish to omit sending the module’s address over
the VXI Bus, letting the SM8000 generate the default address that
is used in the command string. This could possibly increase
throughput, by decreasing VXI Bus traffic, if the modules are
receiving many commands. Although, this is only true if the
optical module’s address is not changed by the user. It is
recommended that the optical module’s address be left at 49h. If
the address is to be changed, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THE
NEW ADDRESS BE WRITTEN DOWN. Failure to do so will
result in an inability to control the module. All 4 possible modules
may have the same address. The SM8000 controls them on
separate internal busses.

If setting the module’s address, the address byte must be set prior
to writing to the optical module’s data (attenuation level) register.

SM8000 Series Programming 53

VXI Technology, Inc.

DEVICE MEMORY

MODULE RELAY CONTROL ADDRESS - SM8000 SERIES OPTICAL SWITCH CONTROLLER

The SM8000 SMIP II plug-in module is assigned 1 k (1024) bytes of memory as shown in the
SMIP II Configuration/Relay Register Map for A24/A32 address space as shown below. The
lower 512 bytes of each module's memory are used for optical switch and optical module control.
The 512 bytes are split in half with the lower 256 bytes used to pass data to the optical modules,
and the upper 256 bytes used to hold SM8000 optical module specific control registers. The rest
of the upper 1K address space is unused. The base address is as follows:

Module 0 (SM8000) Base Address = 0x0000

The Module Base Address is then added to the A24/A32 Base Address to access a specific
module's relays:

Module Relay Address = A24/A32 Base Address + Module Base Address

Since only one Model SM8000 may be plugged onto a standard SMIP II carrier, only one module
base address, H0000, is used to address the SM8000. This is the case whether or not the SM8000
is housed in a single or double-slot VXI module.

RELAY REGISTER OFFSET

The Relay Register Offset is located within the module's A24/32 address space. When data is sent
to the register, the relay register offset is added to the A24/A32 base address and module base
address:

Relay Register Address = A24/A32 Base Address + Module Base Address + Register Offset

or

Relay Register Address = Module Relay Address + Register Offset

54 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

WRITING TO THE RELAY REGISTERS

If the SM8000 is used to drive single-mode prism switches, in either latching or non-latching
configurations, setting the switches is accomplished through writing to the Relay Register located
at Relay Register Offset H0000. Each bit, of this 16-bit register, represents the state of the relay
(1 = closed, 0 = open). (Note that bits 15 through 12 are unused.) To change the state of any
relay, it is only necessary to write a 16-bit integer to the specified register with the new
configuration. For example:

• writing a data value of "0" to the register at offset "0" would open the 12 available switches

• writing a data value of 4095 (0x0FFF) to the same register would close the 12 switches

• writing a data value of 4094 (0x0FFE) to the same register would close all switches except

switch number 1

Relay Register 00 – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D12 Unused Write has no effect. Read back as 1111.

D11-D0

Plug-In LA+0x000

1x2 or 2x2 Optical

Prism Switch

Control Register

0 = Opens optical path.
1 = Closes optical path.
Pon state = 0

A read of this bit location will indicate whether the optical path is
either closed or open. This register controls the possible 12 prism
switches that may be driven by the SM8000.

SM8000 Series Programming 55

VXI Technology, Inc.

Relay (Optical Module’s Data (Attenuation Level))

Register 02 thru 08 – Read and Write

ADDR

D15-D0

Plug-In LA+0x002 – 0x008

The SM8000 can alternatively drive up to 4 optical multi switch or
attenuator modules. Module one is addressed by writing a 16-bit
word to address LA+0x002; module two is controlled by writing
to address LA+0x004 and so on.

When controlling the multi switch modules, data bits D4 (MSB)­D0 (LSB) are used to pass the channel selection data directly to
the optical module. See the configuration information for the

16 Bit Data Word to

be sent to Optical

Multi Switch or

Attenuator

specific optical module that is installed in the SM8000.

For multi switch modules, these addresses are both read and write.

When controlling attenuator modules D15 (MSB)-D0 (LSB) are
used to pass the 16 bit control word to the optical module.

Writing to this register initiates the transfer of data to the optical
module.

For attenuator modules, these addresses are write only.

See typical Optical Attenuator control example.

Relay (Optical Module’s Data (Attenuation Level))

Register 0A thru 0C – Read

ADDR

D15-D0

Plug-In LA+0x00A – 0x00C

Queries of the optical attenuator module may be acquired through
reading of these registers.

When querying attenuator modules D15 (MSB) - D0 (LSB) are
used to read the three 8-bit data bytes from the optical module.

16 Bit Data Word to

be read back from

Optical Attenuator

Once the optical module has been queried, these registers may be
read to receive the data retrieved from the optical module. Address
0C will read back the most significant byte, and the address 0A
will read back the middle and least significant byte.

Depending on the query command (see Attenuator Command Set)
a predefined byte count will be received back from the optical
module.

See typical Optical Attenuator control example.

56 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

PROGRAMMING EXAMPLES

TYPICAL OPTICAL MULTI-SWITCH CONTROL EXAMPLE

The optical multi-switch modules are controlled via a 5-bit parallel port. To select the optical
switch, the binary number corresponding to the switch is written to the SM8000 optical switch
controller. The multi-switch modules may be located at register locations 02 through 08. The
following sequence could be used to select switch number 5, on the multi-switch module located
at register location 02:

1. Write a 0004h to location 02h. Calculate the relay register address as shown above in the
Relay Register Offset section, where the module relay address is always 0, and the register
offset is 02h. This will select the optical path that is associated with optical multi-switch
number 5.

2. Once the switch has settled, a read of location 02h would confirm the value of 0004h.

3. To set the multi switch module to another desired switch setting, simply write the BCD
number corresponding to the switch required to the SM8000.

4. To reset the multi switch to the power-on condition, i.e. no optical paths connected, the
following sequence must be performed:

a) Set the optical module’s corresponding Reset Bit in the Control Register to ‘1’.
b) Write a x0h to the optical module.
c) Set the Reset Bit in the Con trol Register back to “0”.

SM8000 Series Programming 57

VXI Technology, Inc.

TYPICAL OPTICAL ATTENUATOR CONTROL EXAMPLE

The optical attenuator modules are controlled via an I2C bus interface. The bus protocol requires
the transmission of the following:

• a Module Address

• a Command Byte

• the number of bytes to send

• the number of bytes to receive

• the proper data byte(s) that are to be written to, or received from, the optical module (the

command byte(s)).

The following sequence should be used to control the modules:

Write

1. Load the Address Register with the module’s address. The default address of the modules as
shipped from the factory is 73 => 49h. (This step may be skipped, see Address Register
description.)

2. Load the Command Register with the number of bytes to be received plus 1, the number of
bytes to be sent, and the proper command.

3. Write/Read the appropriate Relay Register 02 through 08 depending on the module being
controlled.

Read

1. Load the Address Register with the module’s address. The default address of the modules as
shipped from the factory is 73 => 49h. (This step may be skipped, see Address Register
description.)

2. Load the Command Register with the number of bytes to be received plus 1, the number of
bytes to be sent, and the proper command (a query command).

3. Write/Read the appropriate Relay Register 02 through 08 depending on the module being
queried (write a “0”, the data is ignored).

4. Read the appropriate Relay Register 0A through 0C depending on the number of bytes that
are to be received from the module being queried. See Attenuator Command Set.

Note

These read back registers are common to all four of the possible attenuator modules that may be
installed. A subsequent write to any of the Relay Registers 02 through 08 will corrupt these registers.

58 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

Note

To operate the modules correctly, the SM8000 must be loaded with a valid Address in the Address
Register. The SM8000 is hard coded at the factory with the optical modules default address of
73 => 49h, and may be used to generate the address used in the command. This is the address of all
attenuators as shipped from the factory. During the programming of the optical module, the
programmer may wish to omit sending the module’s address over the VXI Bus, letting the SM8000
generate the default address that is used in the command string. This could possibly increase
throughput, by decreasing VXI Bus traffic, if the modules are receiving many commands, although this
is only true if the optical module’s address is not changed by the user. If the address is to be changed,
IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THE NEW ADDRESS BE WRITTEN DOWN. Failure to do so will result
in an inability to control the module. All four possible modules may have the same address. The
SM8000 controls them on separate internal busses.

VTI STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE OPTICAL MODULE’S ADDRESS BE LEFT AT 49h.

SM8000 Series Programming 59

COMMAND REGISTER

VXI Technology, Inc.

The following register addressing is based on the Phillips I2C specification. For more detailed
information, please refer to Phillips document titled The I

Bits

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

D R R R D W W W C C C C C C C C

2

C Bus and How To Use It.

Don’t Care

D

Number of data bytes to be read back from the optical module plus 1.

R

W

C

Write Example

Command optical module to Move-To-Absolute-Step:

W = 1 Address Byte + 1 Command Byte + 2 Data Bytes to Send = 4
R = 0 (no data is expected back)
C = 30h
Command Register = 0430h

Read Example

Range: 8 to 0 decimal.
Number of data bytes to be written to the optical module. This number should
include the Address and Command Bytes, along with the number of data
bytes that are to be written to the module.
Range: 8 to 0 decimal.

Command Byte. See Attenuator Command Set.

Query optical module’s Current Step:

W = 1 Address Byte + 1 Command Byte + 0 Data Bytes to Send = 2
R = 2 Data Bytes to Read Back + 1 = 3
C = 31h
Command Register = 3231h

60 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

COMMAND SET

Table 4-2 lists the command set available for the SM8101 / SM8102 Optical Attenuator. The table
lists the commands in alphabetical order. Detailed descriptions, listed in numeric order, fo llow the
table.

ABLE 4-2: ATTENUATOR COMMAND SET

T

Command

Command

Byte

Transmit Data

Byte Count

Receive Data

Byte Count

Move To Absolute Step 30h 2 N/A
Power Down Motor 35h N/A N/A
Power Down Motor 43h N/A N/A
Power Down Motor 6Ch N/A N/A
Query Attenuation 81h N/A 2
Query Calibration Date 8Bh N/A 3
Query Calibration Table Entry 8Eh 2 2
Query Calibration Temperature 8Ah N/A 1
Query Calibration Wavelength 89h N/A 2
Query Current Step 31h N/A 2
Query Device ID 8Dh N/A 3
Query Firmware Revision 8Ch N/A 2
Query Maximum Attenuation 83h N/A 2
Query Minimum Attenuation 82h N/A 2
Reset Device 32h N/A N/A
Reset Device 96h N/A N/A
Reset Device A2h N/A N/A
Set Attenuation 80h 2 N/A
Set Address 90h 1 N/A

SM8000 Series Programming 61

30h

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Move to Absolute Step

30h HIGH_BYTE LOW_BYTE

The Move to Absolute Step command sets the position of the stepper motor. The v alid
range is 0 - 3200, written in a 2-byte (16-bit) format.

The following example converts a integer decimal step to a HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
format:

1. 2485 = 0B1Dh

2. HIGH_BYTE = 0Bh
LOW_BYTE = 1Dh

Convert decimal step number to hexadecimal.

Convert to HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE format.

31h

Query Current Step

31h

The Query Current Step command returns the current location of the stepper motor as
a 2-byte (16-bit) value.

The following example shows how to translate the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
returned value into a integer decimal step number:

1. 0Bh & 1Dh = 0B1Dh

2. 0B1Dh = 2845

HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE value to
hexadecimal value.

Convert hexadecimal value to an integer decimal
value.

62 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

32h

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Reset Device

32h

The Reset Device command returns the unit to a reset, or park position. This command
functions the same as 96h and A2h.

35h

Power Down Motor

35h

The Power Down Motor command shuts off current to the stepper motor, which
decreases current consumption to about 50 mA.

After being powered down, the stepper motor will not hold its position. It must be
reset to re-establish operation after using this command.

This command functions the same as 43h and 6Ch.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

43h

Power Down Motor

43h

This command functions the same as 35h and 6Ch.

SM8000 Series Programming 63

6Ch

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Power Down Motor

6Ch

This command functions the same as 35h and 43h.

80h

Set Attenuation

80h HIGH_BYTE LOW_BYTE

The Set Attenuation command sets the attenuation value using a 2-byte (16-bit)
format.

The following example translates a decimal attenuation value (dB) into the
HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE command input format:

1. 100 x 34.39 = 3439

2. 3439 = 0D6Fh

3. HIGH_BYTE = 0Dh
LOW_BYTE = 6Fh

Multiply dB value by 100 to get integer decimal
value.

Convert integer decimal to hexadecimal.

Convert to HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE
format.

64 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

81h

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Attenuation

81h

The Query Attenuation command returns the current attenuation value as a 2-byte (16­bit) value.

The following example shows how to translate the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
returned value into a dB attenuation value:

1. 0Dh & 6Fh = 0D6Fh

2. 0D6Fh = 3439

3. 3439 / 100 = 34.39

HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE value to
hexadecimal value.

Convert hexadecimal value to an integer
decimal value.

Divide by 100 to convert to dB value.

82h

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Minimum Attenuation

82h

The Query Minimum Attenuation command returns the minimum attenuation setting
in a 2-byte (16-bit) format.

The following example shows how to translate the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
returned value into a dB attenuation value:

1. 0Dh & 6Fh = 0D6Fh

2. 0D6Fh = 3439

3. 3439 / 100 = 34.39

HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE value to
hexadecimal value.

Convert hexadecimal value to an integer
decimal value.

Divide by 100 to convert to dB value.

SM8000 Series Programming 65

83h

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Maximum Attenuation

83h

The Query Maximum Attenuation command returns the maximum attenuation setting
in a 2-byte (16-bit) format.

The following example shows how to translate the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
returned value into a dB attenuation value:

1. 0Dh & 6Fh = 0D6Fh

2. 0D6Fh = 3439

3. 3439 / 100 = 34.39

HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE value to
hexadecimal value.

Convert hexadecimal value to an integer
decimal value.

Divide by 100 to convert to dB value.

89h

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Calibration Wavelength

89h

The Query Calibration Wavelength command returns the calibration wavelength value
in a 2-byte (16-bit) format. The calibration wavelength is an integer value that
represents the wavelength at which the attenuator was calibrated.

The following example translates the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE returned value into
a decimal integer value:

1. 05h & DCh = 05DCh

2. 05DCh = 1500nm

HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE value to
hexadecimal value.

Convert hexadecimal value to an integer
decimal value for wavelength (nm).

66 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

8Ah

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Calibration Temperature

8Ah

The Query Calibration Temperature command returns the calibration temperature
value in a 1-byte (8-bit) format. The calibration temperature is an integer value.

The following example translates the OUT_BYTE returned value into a decimal
integer calibration temperature value (°C):

1.

19h = 25°C

Convert to calibration temperature.

8Bh

Query Calibration Date

8Bh

The Query Calibration Date command returns the calibration date in a 3-byte (24-bit)
format.

The following example translates the 3-byte (HIGH_BYTE-MID_BYTE­LOW_BYTE) output to a calibration date:

1. 05h = 5

2. 1Ah = 26

3. 63h = 98
98 + 1900 = 1998

4. 5-26-1998

Convert the HIGH_BYTE to get the month.

Convert the MID_BYTE to get the day.

Convert the LOW_BYTE and add 1900 to get
the year.

Forms the calibration date of May 26, 1998.

SM8000 Series Programming 67

8Ch

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Firmware Revision

8Ch

The Query Firmware Revision command returns the unit firmware revision in a 2-byte
(16-bit) format.

The following example shows how to translate the HIGH_BYTE-LOW_BYTE
returned value into a two-place decimal firmware revision value:

1. 01h = 1

2. 20h = 32

3. version 1.32

Convert the HIGH_BYTE into the major revision
number.

Convert the LOW_BYTE into the minor revision
number.

Put the major and minor numbers together to
form the version number.

8Dh

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Query Device ID

8Dh

The Query Device ID command returns the device ID in a 3-byte (6-nibble, 24-bit)
format. The most significant nibble is the device ID, while the remaining five nibbles
make up the device serial number.

The following example translates the HIGH_BYTE-MID_BYTE-LOW_BYTE output
into the device code-serial number format:

1. C02B33h

2. C = Attenuator

3. 02B33 = serial number

Returned value.

First nibble is the device code.

Last five nibbles make up the serial
number of the unit.

68 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

8Eh

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Example

Example

Query Calibration Table Entry

8Eh HIGH_BYTE LOW_BYTE

The Query Calibration Table Entry command returns the calibration table entry (step
position) for a given attenuation in a 2-byte (16-bit) format. The returned value is the
absolute step position the stepper motor would move to in order to generate the given
attenuation.

The following example translates a decimal attenuation value (dB) into a
HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE format for transmission to the device:

1. 100 x 34.39 = 3439

2. 3439 = 0D6Fh

3. HIGH_BYTE = 0Dh
LOW_BYTE = 6Fh

The following example translates a HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE hexadecimal
output to an integer decimal step number:

1. 0Dh & 6Fh = 0D6Fh

2. 0D6Fh = 3439

Multiply by 100 to convert decimal attenuation
value to an integer.

Covert integer to hexadecimal.

Convert to HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE
format.

Concatenate HIGH_BYTE and LOW_BYTE.

Convert hexadecimal table entry to integer
decimal step number.

SM8000 Series Programming 69

90h

VXI Technology, Inc.

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Set Address

90h HIGH_BYTE

The Set Address command permanently sets the address to a one-byte (8-bit) value
between 0 and 127 (the MSB of HIGH_BYTE must be zero).

Note

To operate the modules correctly, the SM8000 must be loaded
with a valid Address in the Address Register. The SM8000 is
hard coded at the factory with the optical modules default
address of 73 => 49h, and may be used to generate the address
used in the command. This is the address of all attenuators as
shipped from the factory. During the programming of the
optical module, the programmer may wish to omit sending the
module’s address over the VXI Bus, letting the SM8000 generate
the default address that is used in the command string. This
could possibly increase throughput, by decreasing VXI Bus
traffic, if the modules are receiving many commands. Although,
this is only true if the optical module’s address is not changed by
the user. If the address is to be changed, IT IS IMPERATIVE
THAT THE NEW ADDRESS BE WRITTEN DOWN. Failure to
do so will result in an inability to control the module. All four
possible modules may have the same address. The SM8000
controls them on separate internal busses. VTI STRONGLY
RECOMMENDS THAT THE OPTICAL MODULE’S
ADDRESS BE LEFT AT 49h.

Example

The following example translates an integer decimal address value into a
HIGH_BYTE format:

1. 73 = 49h

Convert to hexadecimal.

70 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

96h

Command Name

Command Format

Description

Command Name

Command Format

Example

Reset Device

A2h

This command functions the same as 32h and A2h.

A2h

Reset Device

A2h

This command functions the same as 32h and 96h.

SM8000 Series Programming 71

VXI Technology, Inc.

72 SM8000 Series Programming

VXI Technology, Inc.

INDEX

A

A16 address space.............................................................39

A16 base address..............................................................37

A16 offset register............................................................37

A16 offset register address ...............................................37

A24 address space.............................................................37

A24 base address..............................................................37

A24/A32 active.................................................................39

A24/A32 enable................................................................40

A24/A32 memory offset...................................................40

A32 address space.............................................................37

A32 base address..............................................................37

access LED fail bit............................................................49

ACFAILN enable bit ........................................................48

address space ..............................................................23, 39

B

backplane jumpers............................................................21

BBM/MBB Bit .................................................................49

BBM/MBB Enable Bit .....................................................49

C

cable..................................................................................10

cause/status.......................................................................41

command parsing..............................................................37

configuration registers......................................................48

cooling..............................................................................21

D

data bus.............................................................................50

delay timer........................................................................49

device class.......................................................................39

dynamic configuration......................................................39

E

electric shock................................................................9, 10

electrical overload...............................................................9

explosive atmosphere........................................................10

extended memory device..................................................41

extended memory space....................................................23

F

firmware version number..................................................40

frame or chassis ground......................................................9

front panel open signal set by this module........................51

G

grounding conductor.........................................................10

H

handler IRQ Line..............................................................41

hardware revision code.............................51, 52, 53, 55, 56

I

IH ENA*.......................................................................... 41

interrupt mask ..................................................................41

interrupter IRQ line..........................................................41

IR ENA* .......................................................................... 41

IRQ line............................................................................ 41

L

logical address................................................ 21, 22, 23, 39

LSB (least significant bit) .......................................... 22, 23

M

major hardware version number....................................... 40

manufacturer's ID.............................................................39

memory space ..................................................................48

message-based.................................................................. 37

minor hardware version number.......................................40

model code.......................................................................39

MODID*..........................................................................39

module relay address........................................................ 54

MSB (most significant bit).........................................22, 23

O

offset register....................................................................37

offset value.......................................................................37

openbus out enable bit...................................................... 50

overheating....................................................................... 10

P

polled fashion...................................................................41

power................................................................................21

power cord....................................................................9, 10

power source...................................................................... 9

probes...............................................................................10

R

rating fuse...........................................................................9

register address................................................................. 37

registers......................................................................37, 39

relay control ..................................................................... 54

relay data read back polarity bit.......................................48

relay register address.................................................. 54, 55

relay register offset........................................................... 54

relay reset enable bit ........................................................49

relay reset select bit.......................................................... 50

required memory..............................................................39

reset..................................................................................40

S

serial clock....................................................................... 42

specified voltage ................................................................9

sysfail inhibit.................................................................... 40

SM8000 Series Index 73

VXI Technology, Inc.

T

temperature range.............................................................10

test leads ...........................................................................10

trigger ...............................................................................45

V

ventilation.........................................................................10

VXIbus .......................................................................21, 37

VXIbus Extended Device .................................................41

W

wet or damp conditions.....................................................10

74 SM8000 Series Index