PRECISION MAGNETICS ANALYZER

3260B
User Manual

Issue G

2nd January 2003

Part No 9H3260B

USA UK Asia
Wayne Kerr Electronics Inc. Wayne Kerr Electronics Microtest
165L New Boston Street Vinnetrow Business Park 14F-6, No.79, Hsin Tai Wu Road, Sec. 1,
Woburn MA 01801-1744 Vinnetrow Road Hsi-chih, Taipei 221, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Tel: 781 938 8390 Chichester Tel: +886-2-2698-4104
Fax: 781 933 9523 West Sussex PO20 1QH Fax: +886-2-2698-0716
email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)1243 792200 Email: [email protected]
www.waynekerrtest.com Fax: +44 (0)1243 792201 www.waynekerrtest.com
email: [email protected]
email: [email protected]
www.waynekerrtest.com
 Wayne Kerr Electronics Limited 2003
The copyright in this work is vested in Wayne Kerr Electronics Limited and this document is
issued for the purpose only for which it is supplied. No licence is implied for the use of any
patented feature. It must not be reproduced in whole or in part, or used for tendering or
manufacturing purposes except under an agreement or with the consent in writing of and then
only on the condition that this notice is included in any such reproduction. Information
furnished is believed to be accurate but no liability in respect of any use of it is accepted by
Wayne Kerr Electronics Limited.
CONTENTS
1. SAFETY............................................................................................................................... 1–1
1.1 General............................................................................................................................ 1–1
1.2 AC Power Supply ........................................................................................................... 1–2
1.3 Adjustment, Maintenance and Repair............................................................................. 1–2
1.4 Static Electricity.............................................................................................................. 1–3
2. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................... 2–1

3. INSTALLATION................................................................................................................ 3–1
3.1 AC Line Connections...................................................................................................... 3–1
3.2 Location .......................................................................................................................... 3–1
3.2.1 Rack Mounting......................................................................................................... 3–1
3.3 Wayne Kerr Electronics Measurement Leads ................................................................ 3–2
3.3.1 Other Test Leads...................................................................................................... 3–3
4. OPERATION ...................................................................................................................... 4–1
4.1 The Rear Panel................................................................................................................ 4–1
4.1.1 Voltage Selector....................................................................................................... 4–1
4.1.2 IEC Socket and Fuse Holder ................................................................................... 4–1
4.1.3 Rear Panel Control Connections............................................................................. 4–2
4.1.4 Safety Interlock ........................................................................................................ 4–2
4.1.5 External Trigger ...................................................................................................... 4–3
4.1.6 Parallel Printer Connector...................................................................................... 4–3
4.1.7 GPIB Connector ...................................................................................................... 4–5
4.1.8 Auxiliary In .............................................................................................................. 4–5
4.1.9 Auxiliary Control Out .............................................................................................. 4–5
4.1.10 Auxiliary AC Out ................................................................................................... 4–6
4.1.11 Bin Handler Interface (Option) ............................................................................. 4–6
4.2 The Front Panel............................................................................................................... 4–8
4.2.1 Switching the Instrument ON................................................................................... 4–9
4.2.2 Switching the Instrument OFF................................................................................. 4–9
4.2.3 The Soft Keys ........................................................................................................... 4–9
4.2.4 The Navigation Keys.............................................................................................. 4–10
4.2.5 The Control Keys ................................................................................................... 4–11
4.2.6 The Data Entry Keypad ......................................................................................... 4–12
4.3 Trimming ...................................................................................................................... 4–16
4.3.1 Performing an O/C Trim (Pri) or S/C Trim (Pri).................................................. 4–17
4.3.2 Performing an O/C Trim (Pri–Sec) ....................................................................... 4–18
4.3.3 Performing an S/C Trim (Sec) ............................................................................... 4–19
4.4 HF Lead Compensation ................................................................................................ 4–19
4.4.1 Performing HF Lead Compensation...................................................................... 4–19
4.5 Self Calibration............................................................................................................. 4–21
4.5.1 Performing Self Calibration .................................................................................. 4–22
4.6 Handler Calibration ...................................................................................................... 4–23
4.6.1 O/C Trim and S/C Trim ......................................................................................... 4–23
 4.6.2 HF Lead Compensation ......................................................................................... 4–25
4.7 Measuring a Component in IMPEDANCE MODE ...................................................... 4–26
4.7.1 Example.................................................................................................................. 4–27
4.7.2 IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters......................................................................... 4–29
5. ADVANCED OPERATION............................................................................................... 5–1
5.1 Front Panel Connections ................................................................................................. 5–1
5.1.1 Connection Protocol ................................................................................................ 5–1
5.1.2 Two-, Three- and Four-Terminal Connections........................................................ 5–2
5.2 In-Circuit Measurements................................................................................................. 5–3
5.3 Measurement of Very Small Capacitors ......................................................................... 5–4
5.4 Measurement of Very Small Inductors ........................................................................... 5–5
5.5 Measurement of Iron-Cored and Ferrite Inductors ......................................................... 5–5
5.6 Measurement of Transformers ........................................................................................ 5–5
5.7 TRANSFORMER MODE .............................................................................................. 5–6
5.7.1 Example.................................................................................................................... 5–7
5.7.2 TRANSFORMER MODE Parameters...................................................................... 5–8
5.8 INSULATION MODE (Optional) ................................................................................ 5–10
5.8.1 Connections............................................................................................................ 5–11
5.8.2 Trimming................................................................................................................ 5–13
5.8.3 Operation ............................................................................................................... 5–14
5.8.4 Example.................................................................................................................. 5–15
5.8.5 INSULATION MODE Parameters......................................................................... 5–17
5.9 BINNING MODE (Optional)........................................................................................ 5–18
5.9.1 BINNING MODE – Set .......................................................................................... 5–18
5.9.2 BINNING MODE – Sort......................................................................................... 5–22
5.9.3 BINNING MODE – Count ..................................................................................... 5–23
5.10 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE ......................................................................................... 5–24
5.10.1 Sequence Mode Program Files ............................................................................ 5–25
5.10.2 Sequence Mode Test Program ............................................................................. 5–28
5.11 SEQUENCE RUN MODE.......................................................................................... 5–30
5.11.1 Selecting a Program............................................................................................. 5–30
5.11.2 Program Development ......................................................................................... 5–30
5.11.3 Running a Program.............................................................................................. 5–31
5.12 HANDLER MODE ..................................................................................................... 5–32
5.12.1 Use of HANDLER MODE.................................................................................... 5–32
5.13 TELECOMS MODE................................................................................................... 5–32
5.13.1 Example................................................................................................................ 5–33
5.13.2 TELECOMS MODE Parameters ......................................................................... 5–34
5.14 MULTI FREQ MODE ................................................................................................ 5–36
5.14.1 MULTI FREQ – Set.............................................................................................. 5–36
5.14.2 MULTI FREQ – Run ............................................................................................ 5–40
5.15 GRAPH MODE .......................................................................................................... 5–41
5.15.1 GRAPH MODE – Set Parameters........................................................................ 5–42
5.15.2 Parameters Available when the Graph is Displayed........................................... 5–44
5.15.3 Example................................................................................................................ 5–45
5.16 RESONANCE MODE ................................................................................................ 5–47
5.17 DEMAG MODE ......................................................................................................... 5–49
 5.17.1 DEMAG MODE Parameters ............................................................................... 5–49
5.18 The SETTINGS Page.................................................................................................. 5–49
5.18.1 The SETTINGS Page Parameters........................................................................ 5–50
5.19 The CAL STATUS Page ............................................................................................ 5–52
6. GENERAL PURPOSE INTERFACE BUS (GPIB) ........................................................ 6–1
6.1 GPIB Control .................................................................................................................. 6–1
6.1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 6–1
6.1.2 Interface Specification............................................................................................. 6–1
6.1.3 Changing GPIB Address.......................................................................................... 6–2
6.1.4 Message Syntax........................................................................................................ 6–2
6.1.5 Data Output ............................................................................................................. 6–5
6.1.6 Status Reporting....................................................................................................... 6–6
6.1.7 Common Commands .............................................................................................. 6–12
6.1.8 Standard Operation Status Commands ................................................................. 6–13
6.2 Device-Specific Commands.......................................................................................... 6–14
6.2.1 Command Summary ............................................................................................... 6–14
6.3 Example Programs ........................................................................................................ 6–91
6.3.1 Example 1 .............................................................................................................. 6–93
6.3.2 Example 2 .............................................................................................................. 6–94
6.3.3 Example 3 .............................................................................................................. 6–95
6.3.4 Example 4 .............................................................................................................. 6–97
6.3.5 Example 5 .............................................................................................................. 6–98
7. SPECIFICATION............................................................................................................... 7–1
7.1 Measurement Functions.................................................................................................. 7–1
7.1.1 IMPEDANCE MODE .............................................................................................. 7–1
7.1.2 HANDLER MODE ................................................................................................... 7–1
7.1.3 TRANSFORMER MODE ......................................................................................... 7–1
7.1.4 RESONANCE MODE .............................................................................................. 7–1
7.1.5 DEMAGNETISATION MODE................................................................................. 7–1
7.1.6 INSULATION MODE (Option)................................................................................ 7–1
7.1.7 BINNING MODE ..................................................................................................... 7–2
7.1.8 SEQUENCE MODE................................................................................................. 7–2
7.1.9 LF TELECOM (Option)........................................................................................... 7–2
7.2 Additional Measurement Facilities................................................................................. 7–2
7.2.1 2/4 Terminal............................................................................................................. 7–2
7.2.2 Transformer Ratio Correction................................................................................. 7–3
7.2.3 Low Magnetization Measurement............................................................................ 7–3
7.2.4 Measurement Speeds ............................................................................................... 7–3
7.2.5 Repeat Measurement ............................................................................................... 7–3
7.2.6 Frequency Steps....................................................................................................... 7–3
7.3 Test Conditions............................................................................................................... 7–3
7.3.1 Measurement Range ................................................................................................ 7–3
7.3.2 Frequency (AC Measurements) ............................................................................... 7–3
7.3.3 Drive Level............................................................................................................... 7–3
7.3.4 DC Bias Current (Impedance modes only).............................................................. 7–4
7.3.5 Insulation (Option) .................................................................................................. 7–4
 7.3.6 LF Telecom (Option)................................................................................................ 7–4
7.4 Basic Accuracy ............................................................................................................... 7–4
7.4.1 Rdc ........................................................................................................................... 7–4
7.4.2 L, R, Z, C .................................................................................................................. 7–4
7.4.3 Dissipation Factor (D)............................................................................................. 7–4
7.4.4 Quality Factor (Q) ................................................................................................... 7–4
7.4.5 Insulation (Option)................................................................................................... 7–5
7.4.6 Insertion Loss (LF Telecom Option)........................................................................ 7–5
7.4.7 Return Loss (LF Telecom Option) ........................................................................... 7–5
7.4.8 Accuracy Chart ........................................................................................................ 7–6
7.5 General Data ................................................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.1 Power Supply ........................................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.2 Display ..................................................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.3 Measurement Connections....................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.4 Remote Control (Option) ......................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.5 Binning Interface (Option)....................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.6 Printer Output .......................................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.7 Environmental Conditions ....................................................................................... 7–7
7.5.8 Safety........................................................................................................................ 7–8
7.5.9 EMC ......................................................................................................................... 7–8
7.5.10 Mechanical............................................................................................................. 7–8
7.5.11 Accessories Supplied.............................................................................................. 7–8
7.5.12 Options and Accessories ........................................................................................ 7–8
8. THEORY REFERENCE.................................................................................................... 8–1
8.1 Abbreviations .................................................................................................................. 8–1
8.2 Formulae ......................................................................................................................... 8–1
8.3 Series/Parallel Conversions ............................................................................................ 8–2
8.4 Polar Derivations............................................................................................................. 8–2
9. MAINTENANCE, SUPPORT AND SERVICES ............................................................. 9–1
9.1 Guarantee ........................................................................................................................ 9–1
9.2 Maintenance .................................................................................................................... 9–1
9.2.1 Cleaning ................................................................................................................... 9–1
9.2.2 Safety Checks ........................................................................................................... 9–1
9.3 Support and Service ........................................................................................................ 9–2
ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure 2-1 PMA3260B Precision Magnetics Analyzer ............................................................ 2–1
Figure 3-1 Procedure for Attachment of Rack Mounting Brackets.......................................... 3–2
Figure 3-2 4 Terminal Measurement ........................................................................................ 3–3
Figure 3-3 2 Terminal Measurement ........................................................................................ 3–3
Figure 4-1 The 3260B Rear Panel ............................................................................................ 4–1
Figure 4-2 Typical Bias Interlock Fixture ................................................................................ 4–2
Figure 4-3 Standard Bin Handler Timing ................................................................................. 4–7
Figure 4-4 The 3260B Front Panel ........................................................................................... 4–8
Figure 4-5 The Soft Keys........................................................................................................ 4–10
Figure 4-6 The Navigation Keys............................................................................................. 4–10
Figure 4-7 The Control Keys .................................................................................................. 4–11
Figure 4-8 Bias Safety Hazard Notice .................................................................................... 4–11
Figure 4-9 The3260B Main Menu (pages 1 and 2) ................................................................ 4–11
Figure 4-10 Single Shot Mode................................................................................................ 4–12
Figure 4-11 Repetitive Mode.................................................................................................. 4–12
Figure 4-12 The Data Entry Keypad....................................................................................... 4–12
Figure 4-13 Example of an Error Message from an Invalid Keypad Entry............................ 4–13
Figure 4-14 'Nearest Available' Error Message ..................................................................... 4–13
Figure 4-15 Connections for O/C trimming of Kelvin clips................................................... 4–16
Figure 4-16 Connections for S/C trimming of Kelvin clips ................................................... 4–16
Figure 4-17 Calibrate Mode.................................................................................................... 4–17
Figure 4-18 Settings Lost........................................................................................................ 4–17
Figure 4-19 O/C Trim (Pri) Options ....................................................................................... 4–18
Figure 4-20 S/C Trim(Pri) Options......................................................................................... 4–18
Figure 4-21 High Voltage ON warning .................................................................................. 4–19
Figure 4-22 HF Lead Compensation....................................................................................... 4–20
Figure 4-23 HF Lead Compensation Data Lost...................................................................... 4–21
Figure 4-24 Self-Calibration Reminder .................................................................................. 4–21
Figure 4-25 Calibration Data Lost .......................................................................................... 4–22
Figure 4-26 Handler Cal Mode............................................................................................... 4–24
Figure 4-27 Front Panel BNC Connections for Handler Mode .............................................. 4–24
Figure 4-28 Handler Factory Cal Lost Message..................................................................... 4–24
Figure 4-29 HANDLER CAL MODE O/C Trim Options...................................................... 4–25
Figure 4-30 HANDLER CAL MODE S/C Trim Options ...................................................... 4–25
Figure 4-31 HF Lead Compensation....................................................................................... 4–26
Figure 4-32 Impedance Mode ................................................................................................. 4–27
Figure 4-33 Example Display when Measuring the Inductance and Quality Factor of a
100µH Inductor ................................................................................................. 4–28
Figure 4-34 Non-Soft Key IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters............................................... 4–31
Figure 4-35 Nearest Drive Level Warning ............................................................................. 4–33
Figure 4-36 Cannot Set Level Warning.................................................................................. 4–33
Figure 5-1 Connection Protocol for IMPEDANCE MODE ..................................................... 5–2
Figure 5-2 Connection Protocol for TRANSFORME/TELECOM MODE ............................. 5–2
Figure 5-3 Connection Protocol for HANDLER MODE ......................................................... 5–2
Figure 5-4 In-Circuit Measurements......................................................................................... 5–3
Figure 5-5 Effect of shunt loading on current terminal ............................................................ 5–4
Figure 5-6 Example of Measuring Turns Ratio in TRANSFORMER MODE......................... 5–8
Figure 5-7 INSULATION MODE: Current Too Large .......................................................... 5–11
Figure 5-8 Unit Not Available ................................................................................................ 5–11
Figure 5-9 Active Connection for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–GND) .................. 5–12
Figure 5-10 Active Connection for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–GND) ................ 5–12
Figure 5-11 Active Connection for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Sec–GND) ............... 5–12
Figure 5-12 Active Connection for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Sec–GND) ............... 5–13
Figure 5-13 Active Connections for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–Sec) ................ 5–13
Figure 5-14 Active Connections for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–Sec) ................. 5–13
Figure 5-15 High Voltage ON warning................................................................................... 5–14
Figure 5-16 INSULATION MODE: display readouts from above example .......................... 5–17
Figure 5-17 BINNING MODE – Set Main Screen ................................................................. 5–19
Figure 5-18 BINNING MODE Nested Percentage Limits .................................................... 5–19
Figure 5-19 BINNING MODE Stacked Absolute Limits ...................................................... 5–19
Figure 5-20 BINNING MODE – Set: Reset Warning ............................................................ 5–20
Figure 5-21 BINNING MODE – Set, Measurement Options ................................................. 5–21
Figure 5-22 Unit Not Available Message ............................................................................... 5–21
Figure 5-23 BINNING MODE – Sort ..................................................................................... 5–22
Figure 5-24 Delete Last Result Message ................................................................................ 5–22
Figure 5-25 BINNING MODE – Count.................................................................................. 5–23
Figure 5-26 Delete Bin Counts Warning ................................................................................ 5–23
Figure 5-27 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE: Program Template ................................................. 5–25
Figure 5-28 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Sequence File Screen.............................................. 5–25
Figure 5-29 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:New Program .......................................................... 5–26
Figure 5-30 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Program Label ........................................................ 5–26
Figure 5-31 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Additional Test Step ............................................... 5–28
Figure 5-32 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Change Test Parameter ........................................... 5–29
Figure 5-33 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Moving a Test Step................................................. 5–30
Figure 5-34 SEQUENCE RUN MODE: Connection Prompt................................................. 5–31
Figure 5-35 SEQUENCE RUN MODE: Failure Message...................................................... 5–32
Figure 5-36 TELECOMS MODE: Simple Termination......................................................... 5–33
Figure 5-37 TELECOMS MODE: Direct Damped Termination............................................ 5–33
Figure 5-38 TELECOMS MODE: Damped Termination with DC Blocking Capacitor........ 5–33
Figure 5-39 Example of Measuring Insertion Loss and Return Loss in TELECOMS
MODE ............................................................................................................... 5–34
Figure 5-40 MULTI FREQ – Set Display With No Parameters Set up.................................. 5–36
Figure 5-41 MULTI FREQ – Set Display Example ............................................................... 5–39
Figure 5-42 Delete Frequency Message.................................................................................. 5–39
Figure 5-43 Initial MULTI FREQ – Run Display (from example in section 5.14.1.1) .......... 5–40
Figure 5-44 MULTI FREQ – Run........................................................................................... 5–41
Figure 5-45 GRAPH MODE – Set.......................................................................................... 5–42
Figure 5-46 Graph Plotted From Example.............................................................................. 5–47
Figure 5-47 Series Equivalent Circuit..................................................................................... 5–47
Figure 5-48 Parallel Equivalent Circuit .................................................................................. 5–47
Figure 5-49 RESONANCE MODE ........................................................................................ 5–48
Figure 5-50 RESONANCE MODE Results............................................................................ 5–48
Figure 5-51 Resonance Not Found Message .......................................................................... 5–48
Figure 5-52 DEMAG MODE.................................................................................................. 5–49
Figure 5-53 The SETTINGS Page.......................................................................................... 5–50
Figure 5-54 The CAL STATUS Page..................................................................................... 5–53
Figure 6-1 GPIB Message Structure ......................................................................................... 6–2
Figure 6-2 GPIB Command Structure ...................................................................................... 6–3
Figure 6-3 GPIB Data Output ................................................................................................... 6–5
Figure 6-4 GPIB RMU Structure.............................................................................................. 6–6
Figure 6-5 Status Byte Register ................................................................................................ 6–7
Figure 6-6 Standard Event Status Register ............................................................................... 6–8
Figure 6-7 Event Status Byte Register...................................................................................... 6–9
Figure 6-8 Standard Operation Status Group ......................................................................... 6–10
 Safety 1–1

1. SAFETY

1.1 General
This equipment has been designed to meet the requirements of EN61010-1 ‘Safety
requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control & laboratory use’ and has left
the factory in a safe condition.
The following definitions in EN61010-1 are applicable:

OPERATOR Person operating equipment for its intended purpose.

Note: The OPERATOR should have received training
appropriate for this purpose.
RESPONSIBLE BODY Individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance
of equipment and for ensuring that operators are adequately
trained.

The RESPONSIBLE BODY must ensure that this equipment is only used in the manner
specified. If it is not used in such a manner, the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
This product is not intended for use in atmospheres which are explosive, corrosive or adversely
polluted (e.g. containing conductive or excessive dust). It is not intended for use in safety
critical or medical applications.
The equipment can cause hazards if not used in accordance with these instructions. Read them
carefully and follow them in all respects.
Do not use the equipment if it is damaged. In such circumstances the equipment must be
made inoperative and secured against any unintentional operation.

WAYNE KERR ELECTRONICS and the associated sales organizations accept no

responsibility for personal or material damage, nor for any consequential damage that
results from irresponsible or unspecified operation or misuse of this equipment.
1–2 Safety

1.2 AC Power Supply

Power cable and connector requirements vary between countries. Always use a cable that
conforms to local regulations, terminated in an IEC320 connector at the instrument end.
If it is necessary to fit a suitable AC power plug to the power cable, the user must observe the
following colour codes:

WIRE EUROPEAN N. AMERICAN

LIVE BROWN BLACK

NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE

GROUND GREEN/YELLOW GREEN

The user must also ensure that the protective ground lead would be the last to break should the
cable be subject to excessive strain.
If the plug is fused, a 3-amp fuse should be fitted.
If the power cable electrical connection to the AC power plug is through screw terminals then,
to ensure reliable connections, any solder tinning of the cable wires must be removed before
fitting the plug.
Before switching on the equipment, ensure that it is set to the voltage of the local AC power
supply.

WARNING!

Any interruption of the protective ground conductor inside or outside the equipment or
disconnection of the protective ground terminal is likely to make the equipment
dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.

1.3 Adjustment, Maintenance and Repair

WARNING!

The equipment must be disconnected from all voltage sources before it is opened for any
adjustment, replacement, maintenance, or repair.

When the equipment is connected to the local AC power supply, internal terminals may be live
and the opening of the covers or removal of parts (except those to which access can be gained
by hand) is likely to expose live parts.
 Safety 1–3

Capacitors inside the equipment may still be charged even if the equipment has been
disconnected from all voltage sources.
Any adjustment, maintenance, or repair of the opened equipment under voltage must be carried
out by a skilled person who is aware of the hazards involved.
Service personnel should be trained against unexpected hazards.
Ensure that only fuses with the required rated current and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and short-circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.

1.4 Static Electricity

The unit supplied uses static-sensitive devices. Service personnel should be alerted to
components which require handling precautions to avoid damage by static electrical discharge.
Before handling circuit board assemblies containing these components, personnel should
observe the following precautions:
1) The work surface should be a conductive grounded mat.
2) Soldering irons must be grounded and tools must be in contact with a conductive surface to
ground when not in use.
3) Any person handling static-sensitive parts must wear a wrist strap which provides a leaky
path to ground, impedance not greater than 1MΩ.
4) Components or circuit board assemblies must be stored in or on conductive foam or mat
while work is in progress.
5) New components should be kept in the suppliers packaging until required for use.
 Introduction 2–1

2. INTRODUCTION

Figure 2-1 PMA3260B Precision Magnetics Analyzer

The 3260B Precision Magnetics Analyzer provides 2-terminal or 4-terminal (Kelvin)

measurement of inductors and transformers over the frequency range 20Hz to 3MHz. DC
resistance measurements are performed at a drive level of 100mV. The drive level for AC
measurements can be varied from 1mV to 10V rms. Automatic level control (ALC) can
maintain the drive level at the component. During AC measurements the 3260B can supply a
DC bias current which is variable between 1mA and 1A and when used with external 3265B
DC Bias Units, up to 125A DC bias current is available.
The Telecom function allows insertion loss and return loss of line matching transformers to be
derived with user-specified values of terminating resistance or impedance. Damped network
components can also be selected, together with a blocking capacitor, if required.
The analyzer’s measurement, display and control facilities include:
• spot frequency measurements;
• multi-frequency measurements at a number of user-defined frequencies;
• display of actual measurement values;
• series or parallel resonant frequency;
• bar graph analogue display for easy adjustment of variable components—spot frequency
measurements only;
• linear or logarithmic graphical representation of a component or circuit across a user-
defined frequency range;
• output of measurement results and graphical display to an Epson-compatible printer;
• sorting of components into bins according to their measured value and/or minor term
(option);
• measurement of insulation resistance with a test voltage of up to 500V DC (option);
• demagnetization of coils.
All the above functions can be selected via manual front panel control or remote control via the
GPIB interface for fully-automated high-speed testing.
 Installation 3–1

3. INSTALLATION

3.1 AC Line Connections

The unit is provided with a power cable capable of carrying the input current for both 115V and
230V operation. This cable should be connected via a suitable connector to the local AC power
supply. The colour code employed is as follows:

WIRE EUROPEAN N. AMERICAN

LIVE BROWN BLACK

NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE

GROUND GREEN/YELLOW GREEN

The supply voltage setting can be checked by looking through the transparent window on the
rear panel next to the power inlet socket. This can be changed by first disconnecting the unit
from the electrical supply, removing the window and adjusting the switch to read the required
voltage. Replace the window and ensure that the fuse rating is correct:

230V 1A–T
115V 2A–T

No adjustment is required for variation of supply frequency.

Before connecting the AC power, read the precautions listed under section 1.2—AC Power
Supply.
The instrument is not suitable for battery operation.
The power switch is located on the left of the front panel.

3.2 Location
The 3260B is intended for use either on the bench or in a rack. The power modules are
convection cooled and care must be taken not to restrict any of the air paths.

3.2.1 Rack Mounting

There is a rack mounting kit available as an option to fit a standard 19” rack. This kit contains
the mounting brackets and screws required for the conversion. To fit these brackets, carefully
remove the insert in the outer face of both front handles, see Figure 3-1 below. Fit each bracket
into the recess formed by the removal of the insert and secure using the bolts provided (M4 x
10mm CSK). It is important that some provision be made to support the rear of the unit when
using the rack mounting brackets.
3–2 Installation

Figure 3-1 Procedure for Attachment of Rack Mounting Brackets

3.3 Wayne Kerr Electronics Measurement Leads

The 3260B can be used with any of the following Wayne Kerr Electronics leads or fixtures.
Except in HANDLER MODE (see Figure 5-3 for connections) ensure that the colour-coded
plugs are mated correctly with the corresponding panel sockets.

Kelvin Clip Leads (Fine Jaws), Part No. 1EVA40100

General purpose 4-terminal measuring leads for conventional components giving good accuracy
except for measurement of very small capacitances or very small inductances where the use of
the 4-terminal component fixture, part number 1EV1006, will give more accurate results.

Kelvin Clip Leads ((large jaws), Part No. 1EVA40180

Similar to part number 1EVA40100 but with larger jaws making them more suitable for
connection to terminal posts or larger diameter component leads.

Four-Terminal Lead Set, Part No. 1EV1505

600mm screened cable terminated in four crocodile clips at the component end. Not
recommended for use above 30kHz.

SMD Tweezers, Part No. 1EVA40120

2-terminal component tweezers for use with surface-mount or leadless components. A cam is
incorporated to set the jaw spacing to the width of the component to be tested so that O/C trim
will trim out the residual capacitance of the tweezers.

Four-Terminal Component Fixture, Part No. 1EV1006

Remote fixture with sliding jaws to accommodate both axial and radial leaded components.
This fixture will give the greatest accuracy for 4-terminal measurements of conventional
components. The jaws can be set to the component width for trimming and component
 Installation 3–3

measurements can be performed without moving the measuring leads: stable lead positioning is
important when measuring low value inductors.

3.3.1 Other Test Leads

Other test leads can be used with the analyzer, provided that they conform to the following
connection protocol.
The front-panel BNC sockets are for screened cable connections to the unknown component or
test fixture: use good quality 50Ω screened cable, e.g. RG174A/U; cable length should not
exceed 2m. In each case, the outer connection provides the screening and the inner is the active
connection. Except in HANDLER MODE (see Figure 5-3 for connections) the innermost pair
of panel connectors carry the signal source (ORANGE) and the current return (RED) signals.
The outer pair serve to monitor the actual voltage at the device under test (DUT), excluding any
voltage drops arising in the source and return leads. The common ground point should be
connected to component guards and/or screens for in-circuit measurements.
The outers of the BNC sockets are not directly connected inside the analyzer, so it is important
that the GROUNDS are linked OUTSIDE. For accurate high frequency operation, the leads
must be screened and the screens connected close to the DUT.

RD OR

Cable screens connected

together close to DUT

Optional screen Fixture -ve Fixture +ve

connection

Figure 3-3 2 Terminal Measurement

Figure 3-2 4 Terminal Measurement

 Operation 4–1

4. OPERATION

WARNING!

This equipment is intended for use by suitably trained and competent persons.

This product can cause hazards if it is not used in accordance with these instructions.
Read them carefully and follow them in all respects. Double check connections to the unit
before use.

DO NOT USE THIS EQUIPMENT IF IT IS DAMAGED.

4.1 The Rear Panel

Bias Safety
Interlock Bin Handler
Trigger in (option) Voltage Selector
Parallel Printer

GPIB Fuse Holder

Auxiliary In Auxiliary IEC power inlet

Auxiliary AC Out Heatsink
Control
Out

Figure 4-1 The 3260B Rear Panel

4.1.1 Voltage Selector

The instrument can be operated from an AC power source of either 115V or 230V. Before
applying AC power to the IEC socket, ensure that the voltage selector switch is set to the
voltage of the local AC power supply.

4.1.2 IEC Socket and Fuse Holder

Please read section 1.2—AC Power Supply, before connecting the IEC socket to the AC power
source.
4–2 Operation

4.1.3 Rear Panel Control Connections

Label Type Use Reference

To protect user against

SAFETY INTERLOCK 3 pole 3.5mm jack plug See section 4.1.4
unintentional back emf.

GPIB Standard GPIB For remote operation. Sections 4.1.7 and 4.2.5

Duplicates action of
TRIGGER IN BNC Section 4.1.5
front panel trigger key.

AUX IN 15-way D-type (male) For future expansion Section 4.1.8

For control of external

AUX CONTROL OUT 9-way D-type (female) Section 4.1.9
options.

AUX AC OUT BNC For future expansion Section 4.1.10

To send results to local Sections 4.1.6, 4.2.6.1,

PARALLEL PRINTER 25-way D-type (female)
printer 5.15.2 and 6.2.1.

OPTIONAL - to interface
HANDLER 25-way D-type (male) Sections 4.1.11 and 5.9
with bin sorting equipment.

4.1.4 Safety Interlock

DC bias current is inhibited until the safety interlock circuit is complete. The terminal fixture
for the inductor under test should be placed within a housing with an interlocked door
controlled by a circuit such as that shown in Figure 4-2 below.

Figure 4-2 Typical Bias Interlock Fixture

Only when the fixture door is closed, and the microswitch therefore made, can DC bias be
activated. At this time, the relay is energized, activating an AC supply for a solenoid which can
be used to lock the door while bias remains available.
The solenoid drive relay should have a 5V DC coil of resistance not less than 200Ω. Diode coil
protection is provided within the bias circuitry.
The door lock is activated when Bias On is selected on the instrument. If the door switch or
interlock lead is broken, DC bias is inhibited.
 Operation 4–3

Note
If the safety interlock is not required, it is necessary to insert the 3.5mm jack plug, with the ring
and sleeve connections linked, into the socket on the back panel. Failure to do this will result in
bias being inhibited, and the message, ✷ Bias Interlock ✷ being displayed.

4.1.5 External Trigger

The TRIGGER IN BNC socket is TTL compatible. Logic low is equivalent to operating the
front panel Trigger key. This input is level sensitive and fully debounced, and includes a pull-
up resistor to enable shorted contacts such as relays or footswitches to be used.

4.1.6 Parallel Printer Connector

Allows the instrument to be connected to an Epson-compatible printer for printing of
measurement results and graphs: see sections 5.15.2—Parameters Available when the Graph is
Displayed and 6.2.1—Command Summary.

Note:
The printer must be enabled before results can be output to it: enter Code 30 from the MAIN
MENU as described in section 4.2.6.1. If printer output is enabled with no printer connected or
with the printer power switched off, a message will be displayed and printer output will be
disabled. Printer output will also be disabled when the instrument is switched off or goes to
remote control. To manually disable the printer output enter Code 31 from the MAIN MENU.

4.1.6.1 Parallel Printer Output

Header
When the printer is enabled, the instrument will print a title, together with the time and date, in
the following format:

Wayne Kerr 3260B

13:53:17 02 Oct 00

Status
Whenever a mode is selected or changed, the status of the selected mode will be printed, for example:

2-TERM RESONANCE MODE

Test Conditions
A summary of the test conditions will be output whenever the type of test is changed, e.g. from
Rdc Meas to AC Meas in IMPEDANCE MODE.

AC Meas:
L Q Parallel
1.02Vac 1.0000kHz
DC Bias 0.000 A OFF
Range Auto
Speed Fast
ALC off
4–4 Operation

If, on selecting a mode, the required test type is already selected, press the highlighted key once
to obtain this test condition summary.

Measurement Results
Measurement results will be output to the printer in IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER,
INSULATION and BINNING modes whenever a single-shot test is performed. The value of
the frequency, test level or DC bias will be printed if highlighted in the test set up. For example,
printing L and Q variation with frequency.

400.00 Hz 13.90mH, 12.55

500.00 Hz 13.85mH, 13.12
600.00 Hz 13.79mH, 13.98
800.00 Hz 13.72mH, 14.52
1.0000kHz 13.61mH, 15.07

To obtain a print out of test results without the additional parameter, move the test set-up
highlight to Range or Speed.

Binning
A PRINT soft key label will be displayed in BINNING MODE – COUNT if a printer is
connected and printing is enabled (Code 30 from the MAIN MENU).
In BINNING MODE – SET, Code 34 will print a list of the current bin set-up (the printer
must first be enabled by entering Code 30 from the MAIN MENU).
In BINNING MODE – SORT and single-shot mode, measurement results and bin numbers
will be printed if printing is enabled.

4.1.6.2 Parallel Printer Connector Pin Assignment

Pin Description Pin Description

1 Strobe 14 Auto Feed

2 Data Line 0 15 Error

3 Data Line 1 16 Initialize Printer

4 Data Line 2 17 Select Input

5 Data Line 3 18 Ground (Data bit 0)

6 Data Line 4 19 Ground (Data bit 1)

7 Data Line 5 20 Ground (Data bit 2)

8 Data Line 6 21 Ground (Data bit 3)

9 Data Line 7 22 Ground (Data bit 4)

10 Acknowledge 23 Ground (Data bit 5)

11 Busy 24 Ground (Data bit 6)

12 Paper End 25 Ground (Data bit 7)

 Operation 4–5

Pin Description Pin Description

13 Select

4.1.7 GPIB Connector

The General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) is a parallel port which allows communication
between the instrument and other devices such as PCs fitted with a suitable interface card. The
GPIB port allows remote control of the instrument for measurement of components and the
collection of measurement results. For details of GPIB control and commands see section 6.
Devices should be connected to the instrument using a standard GPIB 24-pin connector
assembly with a shielded cable. Use of the standard connector consisting of a plug and
receptacle is recommended and should be compatible with the Amphenol and Cinch Series 57
or Amp Champ.

4.1.7.1 GPIB Connector Pin Assignment

Pin Description Pin Description

1 Data Line 1 13 Data Line 5

2 Data Line 2 14 Data Line 6

3 Data Line 3 15 Data Line 7

4 Data Line 4 16 Data Line 8

5 EOI (End or Identify) 17 REN (Remote Enable)

6 DAV (Data Valid) 18 Ground

7 NRFD (Not Ready For Data) 19 Ground

8 NDAC (Not Data Accepted) 20 Ground

9 IFC (Interface Clear) 21 Ground

10 SRQ (Service Request) 22 Ground

11 ATN (Attention) 23 Ground

12 Screen 24 Signal Ground

4.1.8 Auxiliary In
For future expansion.

4.1.9 Auxiliary Control Out

For control of external options, e.g. when using external DC bias current from a 3265B DC
Bias Unit, the 3260B AUX CONTROL OUT connector is connected to the 3265B AUX IN
connector using the control link cable supplied with the 3265B DC Bias Unit.
4–6 Operation

4.1.10 Auxiliary AC Out

For future expansion.

4.1.11 Bin Handler Interface (Option)

For details of how to use the BINNING MODE – Set, – Sort and – Count modes refer to
section 5.9—BINNING MODE (Optional).
An external bin handler may be connected via a 25-way D-type connector at the rear of the
instrument (see section 4.1.11.5 for bin handler interface pin assignment details). If the option
is fitted the instrument will measure a component, sort it into one of the ten bins according to
the measurement results and then provide the signals for external bin handling hardware to
physically ‘bin’ the component. The interface supports up to ten external bins and provision is
made for external bin handler hardware to trigger a measurement directly.
On power up, the instrument recognizes if the bin handler option is fitted, the BUSY line is
taken low, with the BDA and all BIN lines high. Measurements may be triggered by pressing
the Trigger key on the front panel or taking the external TRIGGER IN line low. If a
measurement is in progress when the unit is triggered, the current measurement will be aborted
and a new measurement started.
If the external trigger is to be used under GPIB control, then the local trigger must be enabled
by sending the GPIB command ‘LOC-TRIG ON’.
The BUSY line goes low to acknowledge the trigger and also to indicate that the component
between its terminals is in the process of being measured and should not be removed until the
BUSY line goes high again. The BDA line is the opposite logic level of the BUSY line. The
falling edge of the BDA signal indicates that the data on the BIN lines is valid.
In IMPEDANCE MODE the Pass/Fail output corresponds to the scale bar PASS, HI and LO.
In MULTI FREQ – Run mode the Pass/Fail output corresponds to the PASS, FAIL, HI and
LO results. The Pass/Fail output goes low only when a measurement has passed all set limits,
see section 4.1.11.5 for the bin handler interface pin assignment.
 Operation 4–7

Figure 4-3 Standard Bin Handler Timing

The two output signal lines BUSY and BDA (Bin Data Available) will at any time assume
one of four different states:

4.1.11.1 Null State

The null state is defined as BUSY low and BDA high. The instrument enters this state on
power-up. When this state is detected by external hardware, it must be assumed that the current
signals on the BIN lines are invalid and should be ignored.

4.1.11.2 Ready for Trigger

BUSY is high and BDA is low in this state. All BIN lines will be unchanged. If the previous
state was a null then all BIN lines will be high, meaning no bin selected, although BDA
suggests that valid bin data is present. When the instrument receives a trigger it will respond by
entering the next state.

4.1.11.3 Busy
Both BUSY and BDA are low in this state. The BUSY line goes low to acknowledge the
trigger and also to indicate that the component between its terminals is in the process of being
measured and should not be removed until the BUSY line goes high again, when the
instrument enters the next state.

4.1.11.4 Not Busy

Both BUSY and BDA are high and all BIN lines are set to high in this state. The instrument
has finished with the component under test, which may be removed and replaced by the next
component. However, the instrument has still to sort the component into the relevant bin and, as
the current bin is being updated, all the BIN lines are made invalid.
4–8 Operation

If the process has been completed without interruption, the instrument will re-enter the ‘Ready
for Trigger’ state waiting to measure the next component. The bin handler hardware should
respond to the falling edges of the BDA line and the relevant BIN line, which will occur only
when a component has been successfully measured and sorted.

4.1.11.5 Bin Handler Interface Pin Assignment

Pin Description Pin Description

1 Bin 0 select (active low) 18 Bin 9 select (active low)

2 Bin 1 select (active low) 19 Unused

3 Bin 2 select (active low) 20 Unused

4 Bin 3 select (active low) 21 Pass/Fail output (low = Pass)

13 Bin 4 select (active low) 8 Trigger input

14 Bin 5 select (active low) 10 BUSY output

15 Bin 6 select (active low) 5 BDA output

16 Bin 7 select (active low) 7 +5V Supply (<50mA)

17 Bin 8 select (active low) 24 Ground (0v)

4.1.11.6 Signal Levels

Output High: >4V Output Low: <1V
Input High: >3.5V Input Low: <1.5V
Drive capability typically is 10mA sink (low) and 30µA (high).

4.2 The Front Panel

Soft Keys Control Keys

Contrast LCD Display Navigation Keys Data Entry Keypad

Power Switch BNC Connectors

and Indicator

Figure 4-4 The 3260B Front Panel

 Operation 4–9

4.2.1 Switching the Instrument ON

With the instrument connected to the correct AC power supply (see section 3—Installation)
press the POWER switch. The power indicator will light and the instrument will display the
mode and settings selected when the instrument was last switched off (the exception is Bias
which, for safety reasons, is always OFF when the instrument is powered up).
If the display is too bright or too dark, use the CONTRAST control above the power switch to
set the contrast level.
If the analyzer had previously been set up for measuring components, testing can recommence
after checking the settings and, if applicable, switching the Bias back on.
To return to the MAIN MENU press the Menu control key.

4.2.2 Switching the Instrument OFF

The power can be switched OFF at any time without damage to the instrument, but to avoid
losing trim and calibration data, the instrument should be switched OFF when it is in a
quiescent state rather than when it is running a routine, e.g. trimming, calibration or data entry.

4.2.3 The Soft Keys

The general protocol is that soft keys labelled with UPPER CASE letters select the labelled
mode and soft keys labelled with lower case letters select settings within the current mode.
The functions of the ten soft keys change according to the mode selected. For example, when
the MAIN MENU is displayed by pressing the Menu key, the soft keys relate to the various
modes available, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER, etc. Once a mode has been selected,
the soft keys labelled with small letters select settings within the mode, while the soft keys
labelled with capital letters select the labelled modes.
4–10 Operation

Figure 4-5 The Soft Keys

4.2.4 The Navigation Keys

Figure 4-6 The Navigation Keys

When the set up details are showing on the screen (in some modes, there is a soft key which
toggles between Hide Setup and Show Setup: this soft key can be seen in Figure 4-5), the left
and right navigation keys, and , allow each parameter to be selected in turn. When a
parameter is selected, the up and down navigation keys, and , step the numeric value for
AC level, frequency and DC Bias: the steps vary according to the value but are always
multiples of 1, 2 or 5. Finer frequency steps can be achieved by using the data entry keypad, see
section 4.2.6. For other parameters, the and navigation keys change the settings, e.g.
Auto Range/[fixed range], Slow/Med/Fast/Max, ALC off/on.
 Operation 4–11

4.2.5 The Control Keys

Figure 4-7 The Control Keys

Pressing Local restores control to the front panel when the instrument is under GPIB control.
Bias toggles the DC bias current ON and OFF. Before bias can be switched ON, the Bias
parameter must be selected with the left and right navigation keys, and , and a Bias current
value entered, either with the up and down navigation keys, and , or using the data entry
keypad: see section 4.2.6. During AC measurements the 3260B can supply a DC bias current
which is variable between 1mA and 1A (DC Bias NORM) and when used with an external
3265B DC Bias Unit, up to 125A DC bias current is available (DC Bias BOOST). Whenever
DC bias is on, the message shown below in Figure 4-8 will be displayed at the top of the screen.

Figure 4-8 Bias Safety Hazard Notice

Pressing the Menu key displays the MAIN MENU, from where each mode of operation can be
selected with the soft keys. To select the second page of menu options, press the Menu control
key again or press the MORE . . soft key.

Figure 4-9 The3260B Main Menu (pages 1 and 2)

The 2/4 Term key selects 2- or 4-terminal measurement. When 2-terminal measurement is
selected the associated indicator lights and the display shows 2-TERM… MODE at the top of
the screen. Switching between 2- and 4-terminal mode will require the analyzer to be
retrimmed, see section 4.3. 4-terminal measurements are recommended when measuring low
4–12 Operation

impedance devices. Quoted accuracies assume 4-terminal connection whenever the DUT
impedance is below 1kΩ.
Sngl/Rep toggles between Single shot mode and Repetitive mode. When Sngl/Rep is pressed
the display briefly indicates the mode selected as shown in Figure 4-10 and Figure 4-11 below.
Single shot mode is also indicated by the lack of a continuously flashing asterisk (*) in the top
left corner of the screen. Conversely, the presence of a continuously flashing asterisk indicates
that the instrument is in repetitive mode. The asterisk flashes once every time the instrument
makes a measurement.

Figure 4-10 Single Shot Mode Figure 4-11 Repetitive Mode

When in single shot mode, the Trigger key initiates a single measurement. If it is pressed and
held, the analyzer will fall into repetitive measurement mode until the key is released.

4.2.6 The Data Entry Keypad

Figure 4-12 The Data Entry Keypad

The data-entry keypad is a multi-function key set permitting manual entry of data values,
measurement units and control codes.
The Units key must be used prior to keying a unit or multiplier. Where more than one unit is
available on a key, e.g. D/Q, pressing the key will display the first unit, pressing the key again
will display the second unit. Terminate the units mode with Enter to accept the key sequence.
Pressing Clear will delete the whole key sequence; pressing will delete the last key press.
An invalid keypad entry may cause the entry line to be cleared and an error message, such as
the one shown in Figure 4-13, to be displayed, in which case the existing settings will be
preserved; or the nearest available value may be set, accompanied by the error message shown
in Figure 4-14.
 Operation 4–13

Figure 4-13 Example of an Error Message from an Invalid Figure 4-14 'Nearest Available' Error Message
Keypad Entry

The +/- key may be used before or after a value to change its sign. If the key is pressed more than once,
the value will toggle between + and -. For numbers which are positive only, this key is disabled.

4.2.6.1 Keypad Codes

A number of special functions are available by pressing Code followed by a valid code number
and terminated with Enter. The codes shown below are only available in the mode or menu
indicated; some are for the use of a service engineer.

MAIN MENU

Code Description

0.1 Display the character set. Press any key to display more characters, when all characters
have been shown, the main menu will be displayed and normal operation can be
resumed.

0.4 Test the keyboard.

9.1 Load default values of non-volatile RAM variables, measurement conditions and trim
values.

9.2 Clear sequence programs

9.3 Load default values of self-calibration and HF lead compensation data

30 Enable printer output

31 Disable printer output

32 Print factory calibration data

SETTINGS MENU

Code Description

25 Set the real time clock

34 Print the settings page. Printer must be enabled first—enter code 30 in MAIN MENU.

SEQUENCE EDIT MODE

Code Description

0.3 DIR command

0.4 Save the working program

0.5 Load a program explicitly

4–14 Operation

SEQUENCE EDIT MODE

Code Description

34 Print the full list of the current program. Code 30 must be entered first from the MAIN
MENU page.

SEQUENCE RUN MODE

Code Description

50 Enter single step mode

51 Cancel single step mode

52 Test step failure message disabled

53 Test step failure message enabled

3260 Lock / unlock keyboard

IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER AND HANDLER IMPEDANCE MODES

Code Description

10 Select fine frequency steps

11 Select coarse frequency steps

12 Set global test conditions

13 Set non-global test conditions

18 Single-shot mode

19 Repetitive mode

TRANSFORMER AND HANDLER IMPEDANCE MODES

Code Description

14 Select turns ratio correction for normal transformer

15 Select turns ratio correction for auto transformer

16 No turns ratio correction applied

BIN SET MODE

Code Description

10 Select fine frequency steps

11 Select coarse frequency steps

18 Single shot mode

19 Repetitive mode
 Operation 4–15

BIN SET MODE

Code Description

34 Print the present bin set-up. Code 30 must be entered first from the MAIN MENU page.

40 Store bin set-up at a given location in non-volatile memory.

41 Recall a bin set-up from non-volatile memory.

42 List all the set-up in non-volatile memory.

BIN SORT AND BIN COUNT MODES

Code Description

18 Single shot mode

19 Repetitive mode

Key Sequence Examples (characters in [ ])

Example 1: Supply the analyzer with a value of 27.39mH
1) Select the following settings in IMPEDANCE MODE:
AC Meas, L, Q, Parallel, Show Scale, %.
2) Using the and keys, highlight the ‘nominal’ parameter (underneath the left-hand-side
of the scale).
3) Key the following sequence:

[.] [0] [2] [7] [3] [9] [Units] [H] check data entry line is correct, then press [Enter]
or
[2] [7] [.] [3] [9] [Units] [m] [H] [Enter]

If a mistake is made in a key sequence, before pressing Enter, press to delete the last key
press or Clear to delete the whole key sequence.

Example 2: Set the frequency to 100kHz

1) Using the and keys, highlight the frequency.
2) Key the following sequence:

[1] [0] [0] [0] [0] [0] [Enter]

or
[1] [0] [0] [Units] [k] [Enter]
or
[.] [1] [Units] [M] [Enter]
4–16 Operation

4.3 Trimming
The purpose of trimming is to eliminate the effects of stray capacitance or series impedance in
the connecting leads or fixture.
The trim values are held in non-volatile stores and for most measurements no retrimming is
necessary. The exceptions are:
• when the lead set or fixture is changed;
• when the highest possible accuracy is required for measurements of very high or very low
impedances;
• when maximum accuracy is required when switching between modes, in which case
maximum accuracy will be obtained by trimming from the mode which is to be used for
component measurement;
• when the instrument is switched between 4-terminal and 2-terminal operation;
• when the instrument is switched to, or from, HANDLER MODE, see section 4.6—
Handler Calibration.
Depending on the trim option selected, the analyzer trims by making measurements at a number
of frequencies, including the measurement frequency in use when the trim was initiated, and
storing the corrections for each. If the measurement frequency is changed the analyzer
automatically applies a new correction value by interpolation of the stored values. Corrections
for the Rdc functions are also stored.
For O/C Trim the Kelvin clips or fixture jaws should be separated by a distance equivalent to
the DUT pin separation.
For S/C Trim the connector jaws should be clipped to a piece of wire or a component lead as
close together as possible. Do not connect the clips directly together: this does not provide the
necessary 4-terminal short circuit and will lead to trim errors.

Figure 4-15 Connections for O/C trimming of Kelvin clips Figure 4-16 Connections for S/C trimming of Kelvin clips

For HF Lead Compensation the transfer standard capacitor supplied with the analyzer should
be placed in the Kelvin clips or fixture jaws. Both O/C and S/C Trims must be performed
before performing HF lead compensation.
 Operation 4–17

4.3.1 Performing an O/C Trim (Pri) or S/C Trim (Pri)

For normal impedance measurements these are the only trims required.
1) Select CALIBRATE, either from the MAIN MENU, or from a mode which has
CALIBRATE as an option (in which case pressing the bottommost soft key, which will
be labelled with the name of the original mode, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER,
will return the analyzer to that mode). The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE MODE.

Figure 4-17 Calibrate Mode

2) Select O/C Trim (Pri) or S/C Trim (Pri).

3) With the measurement leads connected to the Primary BNC connectors, open- or short-
circuit the Kelvin clips or fixture jaws as appropriate.
4) Select the trim option required and wait until the analyzer has finished trimming. The trim
options are described in section 4.3.1.1.

Note:
If the instrument is switched OFF during the trim, the messages shown in Figure 4-18 and
Figure 4-23 will be displayed when the instrument is next switched ON. The component
measurement modes will be reset to the default settings and or
will be displayed at the top of the screen. These messages will only be
cleared by performing the appropriate trims. The instrument can be used with the default
settings but it is recommended that O/C trim and/or S/C trim is run for full measurement
accuracy.

Figure 4-18 Settings Lost

Figure 4-18 will also be displayed when power is removed during other critical routines,
such as calibration and data entry.
4–18 Operation

4.3.1.1 Trim Options

Figure 4-19 O/C Trim (Pri) Options Figure 4-20 S/C Trim(Pri) Options

All freq trims at a number of frequencies, including the frequency set when the trim was
initiated. For most measurements made using standard test leads and fixtures this is the normal
trim option to use. The other trim options are normally only used in exceptional circumstances,
such as when a special test fixture fails O/C or S/C trim at certain frequencies outside of the
component test parameters.
Spot trim trims only at the frequency set in the last selected mode.
<= 10kHz trims at a number of frequencies up to and including 10kHz.
<= 100kHz trims at a number of frequencies up to and including 100kHz.
Abort cancels the trim and displays the CALIBRATE MODE main screen.

Note:
If, after trimming with an option other than All freq, a measurement frequency is selected
which is outside of the trim parameters, or will be
displayed at the top of the screen and no trim corrections will be applied for the frequency
selected. The analyzer can be used without trim correction but full measurement accuracy will
not be available until the analyzer is retrimmed using an option which covers the new
measurement frequency.

4.3.2 Performing an O/C Trim (Pri–Sec)

This trim is required for transformer and insulation measurements. If using Kelvin clip leads,
two sets of leads are required.
1) Select CALIBRATE, either from the MAIN MENU, or from a mode which has
CALIBRATE as an option (in which case pressing the bottommost soft key, which will be
labelled with the name of the original mode, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER, will
return the analyzer to that mode). The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE MODE, shown in
Figure 4-17.
2) Select O/C Trim (Pri–Sec).
3) If using two sets of Kelvin clip leads, connect one set of leads to the Primary BNC
connectors and the other set of leads to the Secondary BNC connectors. If using other
 Operation 4–19

measurement leads, connect them to the Primary and Secondary BNC connectors as
appropriate.
4) Open-circuit the Kelvin clips (see Figure 4-15) or fixture jaws.
5) Select the trim option required and wait until the analyzer has finished trimming. The trim
options are described in section 4.3.1.1.

WARNING!

If the optional INSULATION MODE is fitted, part of the O/C Trim (Pri–Sec)
performs an INSULATION MODE trim. The test connections are at a high voltage
during this trim. While high voltage is applied, a message, shown in Figure 4-21
below, will be displayed on the screen. To minimize the risk of electric shock, AVOID
TOUCHING THE TEST CONNECTIONS during the trimming operation.

Figure 4-21 High Voltage ON warning

4.3.3 Performing an S/C Trim (Sec)

This trim is required for transformer measurements.
1) Select CALIBRATE, either from the MAIN MENU, or from a mode which has
CALIBRATE as an option (in which case pressing the bottommost soft key, which will be
labelled with the name of the original mode, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER, will
return the analyzer to that mode). The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE MODE, shown in
Figure 4-17.
2) Select S/C Trim (Sec).
3) With the measurement leads connected to the Secondary BNC connectors, short-circuit the
Kelvin clips (see Figure 4-16) or fixture jaws.
4) Select the trim option required and wait until the analyzer has finished trimming. The trim
options are described in section 4.3.1.1.

4.4 HF Lead Compensation

The purpose of HF lead compensation is to eliminate scalar errors which are due to the test
leads. These vary with test lead length and become significant at frequencies above 200kHz.
Before performing HF lead compensation, both O/C Trim (Pri) and S/C Trim (Pri) must be
performed using the All freq trim option, see section 4.3.1 above.

4.4.1 Performing HF Lead Compensation

1) Select CALIBRATE, either from the MAIN MENU, or from a mode which has
CALIBRATE as an option (in which case pressing the bottommost soft key, which will be
labelled with the name of the original mode, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER, will
4–20 Operation

return the analyzer to that mode). The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE MODE, shown in
Figure 4-17.
2) Select the HF Lead Compensation soft key.
The following message will be displayed:

Figure 4-22 HF Lead Compensation

3) Assuming that O/C and S/C trims have already been performed, connect the transfer
standard capacitor supplied with the instrument to the Kelvin clips or fixture jaws.
4) Press the START soft key. When the CALIBRATE MODE main screen is redisplayed,
HF lead compensation has finished.

Notes:
1) If the HF lead compensation routine fails for any reason, e.g. a test lead connection error or
a power failure during the routine, Figure 4-18 (above) may be displayed when the
instrument is next switched ON, and Figure 4-23 will be displayed every time the
instrument is switched ON. When component measuring modes are selected,
will be displayed at the top of the screen when the measurement
frequency is set to 200kHz or above. These messages will only be cleared by successfully
performing the HF lead compensation routine preceded, if necessary, by O/C and S/C trims.
The instrument can be used with the default settings but it is recommended that the trims
are run for full measurement accuracy.
 Operation 4–21

Figure 4-23 HF Lead Compensation Data Lost

2) If the instrument is switched to HANDLER MODE and then back to any other mode,
will be displayed at the top of the screen when the measurement
frequency is set to 200kHz or above. This message will only be cleared, and full
measurement accuracy restored, by successfully performing the HF lead compensation
routine preceded, if necessary, by O/C and S/C trims.

4.5 Self Calibration

Self calibration is performed to set calibration constants for signal processing elements in the
measurement hardware and signal generation system, and to compensate for components which
have drifted with time. To maintain full specified accuracy it should be run at least every three
months. If it is not run within this period, a reminder will be displayed at power up. This
message is shown in Figure 4-24 below.

Figure 4-24 Self-Calibration Reminder

4–22 Operation

4.5.1 Performing Self Calibration

1) Switch on the instrument and allow it to stabilize for at least 30 minutes at a stable ambient
temperature.
2) Select CALIBRATE, either from the MAIN MENU, or from a mode which has
CALIBRATE as an option (in which case pressing the bottommost soft key, which will be
labelled with the name of the original mode, e.g. IMPEDANCE, TRANSFORMER, will
return the analyzer to that mode). The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE MODE, shown in
Figure 4-17.
3) Select Self Calibration.
4) Disconnect all BNC leads from the instrument front panel and select the Start soft key.
Allow at least 1 minute for the self calibrate routine to run.
When self calibration is finished, the analyzer will return to CALIBRATE MODE.
The Abort soft key will return the analyzer to CALIBRATE MODE.

Note:
If the self calibration routine fails for any reason, e.g. a test lead connection error or a power
failure during the routine, or if the self calibration data becomes corrupted, Figure 4-18 (above)
may be displayed when the instrument is next switched ON, followed by Figure 4-25, which
will be displayed every time the instrument is switched ON. When component measuring
modes are selected, will be displayed at the top of the screen. These
messages will only be cleared by performing self calibration. The instrument can be used with
the default settings but it is recommended that self calibration is run for full measurement
accuracy.

Figure 4-25 Calibration Data Lost

 Operation 4–23

4.6 Handler Calibration

In HANDLER MODE the front panel connections are reconfigured to make the analyzer
compatible with many existing 4-terminal fixtures and scanners. Due to the different lead
configuration, O/C trim, S/C trim and HF lead compensation cannot share trim values with
other modes. The trim corrections saved by the instrument in HANDLER CAL MODE will
overwrite those saved in the normal CALIBRATION MODE. Therefore, when the instrument
is switched from HANDLER MODE to any other mode, the instrument’s default trim settings
will be used when measuring components. The instrument can be used with the default settings
but it is recommended that the appropriate trims are run for full measurement accuracy. Handler
calibration consists of O/C Trim, S/C Trim and HF Lead Compensation.

Notes
1) If the instrument is switched to HANDLER MODE and then back to any other mode,
will be displayed at the top of the screen when the measurement
frequency is set to 200kHz or above. This message will only be cleared, and full
measurement accuracy restored, by successfully performing the HF lead compensation
routine preceded, if necessary, by O/C and S/C trims.
2) If the instrument is switched to HANDLER MODE and then back to any other mode, and
is then switched OFF, Figure 4-18 may be displayed when the instrument is next switched
ON, and Figure 4-23 will be displayed every time the instrument is switched ON. When
component measuring modes are selected, will be displayed at the top
of the screen when the measurement frequency is set to 200kHz or above. These messages
will only be cleared by successfully performing the HF lead compensation routine
preceded, if necessary, by O/C and S/C trims. The instrument can be used with the default
settings but it is recommended that the trims are run for full measurement accuracy.
3) Self Calibration is also an option from HANDLER CAL MODE. This is run without
leads or a fixture connected to the instrument front panel and is therefore valid for all
modes and all types of tests. The self calibration routine is also available from the normal
CALIBRATION MODE menu: see section 4.5.

4.6.1 O/C Trim and S/C Trim

O/C Trim and S/C Trim must be run from HANDLER CAL MODE for full measurement
accuracy when using a compatible 4-terminal fixture or scanner with the instrument.
1) Either:
a) Select CALIBRATE from the MAIN MENU. The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE
MODE, shown in Figure 4-17. Select the Handler Calibration soft key. The analyzer
will enter HANDLER CAL MODE.
b) Select CALIBRATE from HANDLER MODE (in which case pressing the
bottommost soft key, which will be labelled HANDLER, will return the analyzer to
HANDLER MODE). The analyzer will enter HANDLER CAL MODE.
4–24 Operation

Figure 4-26 Handler Cal Mode

2) Select O/C Trim or S/C Trim.

3) With the fixture/scanner leads connected to the Primary and Secondary BNC connectors as
shown below, open- or short-circuit the fixture/scanner component contacts as appropriate.

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Connect to fixture/scanner leads as shown below (n.c. = no connection)

n.c. Red Orange n.c. n.c. Brown Yellow n.c.

Figure 4-27 Front Panel BNC Connections for Handler Mode

4) Select the trim option required and wait until the analyzer has finished trimming. The
HANDLER MODE trim options are described in section 4.6.1.1.

Note
If the instrument is switched OFF during O/C trim or S/C trim, the message shown in Figure 4-18
will be displayed when the instrument is next switched ON, followed by Figure 4-23, which will be
displayed every time the instrument is switched ON. The component measurement modes will be
reset to the default settings and or will be displayed at the
top of the screen. Figure 4-28 will be displayed whenever the instrument is switched ON in
HANDLER MODE after power is interrupted during O/C Trim or S/C Trim. These messages will
only be cleared by performing the appropriate trims. The instrument can be used with the default
settings but it is recommended that O/C trim and/or S/C trim is run for full measurement accuracy.

Figure 4-28 Handler Factory Cal Lost Message

 Operation 4–25

4.6.1.1 HANDLER MODE Trim Options

Figure 4-29 HANDLER CAL MODE O/C Trim Options Figure 4-30 HANDLER CAL MODE S/C Trim Options

All freq trims at a number of frequencies, including the frequency set when the trim was
initiated. For most measurements this is the normal trim option to use. The other trim options
are normally only used in exceptional circumstances, such as when a fixture or scanner fails
O/C or S/C trim at certain frequencies outside of the component test parameters.
Spot trim trims only at the frequency set in HANDLER MODE.
<= 10kHz trims at a number of frequencies up to and including 10kHz.
<= 100kHz trims at a number of frequencies up to and including 100kHz.
Abort cancels the trim and displays the HANDLER CAL MODE main screen.

Note:
If, after trimming with an option other than All freq, a measurement frequency is selected
which is outside of the trim parameters, or will be
displayed at the top of the screen and no trim corrections will be applied for the frequency
selected. The analyzer can be used without trim correction but full measurement accuracy will
not be available until the analyzer is retrimmed using an option which covers the new
measurement frequency.

4.6.2 HF Lead Compensation

The purpose of HF lead compensation is to eliminate scalar errors which are due to the test
leads and fixture/scanner. These vary with test lead length and become significant at
frequencies above 200kHz. Before performing HF lead compensation, both O/C Trim and S/C
Trim must be performed from HANDLER CAL MODE using the All freq trim option as
described in section 4.6.1.

4.6.2.1 Performing HF Lead Compensation

1) Either:
a) Select CALIBRATE from the MAIN MENU. The analyzer will enter CALIBRATE
MODE, shown in Figure 4-17. Select the Handler Calibration soft key. The analyzer
will enter HANDLER CAL MODE (Figure 4-26).
4–26 Operation

b) Select CALIBRATE from HANDLER MODE (in which case pressing the bottommost
soft key, which will be labelled HANDLER, will return the analyzer to HANDLER
MODE). The analyzer will enter HANDLER CAL MODE (Figure 4-26).
2) Select the HF Lead Compensation soft key.
The following message will be displayed:

Figure 4-31 HF Lead Compensation

3) Assuming that O/C and S/C trims have already been performed, connect the transfer standard
capacitor supplied with the instrument to the fixture or scanner component contacts.
4) Press the START soft key. When the CALIBRATE MODE main screen is redisplayed,
HF lead compensation has finished.
See Notes 1) and 2) of section 4.6.

4.7 Measuring a Component in IMPEDANCE MODE

The analyzer should be powered up with the test leads or fixture connected to the front panel
Primary BNC connectors. If the test leads or fixture have been changed since the analyzer was
last used, they should be trimmed as described in section 4.3. If measurements will be made at
200kHz and above, repeat the HF lead compensation as described in section 4.4.1.
The following instructions illustrate the process of measuring a component in IMPEDANCE
MODE.
1) Press the front panel Menu control key. The MAIN MENU (Figure 4-9) will be displayed.
2) Press the IMPEDANCE soft key. IMPEDANCE MODE (Figure 4-32) will be displayed.
 Operation 4–27

Figure 4-32 Impedance Mode

3) Use the soft keys, shown in Figure 4-4 and Figure 4-5, to set the required measurement
parameters: these are described in section 4.7.2 below. Do not exceed the limitations of the
component to be measured.
4) Connect the component to be measured to the test leads or fixture.
5) If the analyzer is in Repetitive mode, the measured values will be displayed and updated
according to the Speed setting selected. A continuously flashing asterisk (*) in the top left-
hand-corner of the screen indicates that the analyzer is in repetitive mode.
6) If the analyzer is in Single shot mode, the front panel Trigger key must be pressed to
initiate a measurement; alternatively, a suitable trigger pulse may be applied to the
TRIGGER IN socket on the rear panel, see section 4.1.5. If the Trigger key is pressed and
held, the analyzer will make repetitive measurements at the Speed setting selected until the
key is released. When in single shot mode, the asterisk (*) in the top left-hand-corner of the
screen only flashes when a measurement is triggered.

4.7.1 Example
This example will take the user through the process of measuring the inductance (L) and quality
factor (Q) of a 100µH inductor. The settings used are examples only and the user may
substitute other settings, subject to the limitations of the component to be measured.
The analyzer should be powered up with the test leads or fixture connected to the front panel
BNC connectors. If the test leads or fixture have been changed since the analyzer was last used,
they should be trimmed as described in section 4.3. If measurements will be made at 200kHz
and above, repeat the HF lead compensation as described in section 4.4.1.
1) Press the front panel Menu control key. The MAIN MENU will be displayed.
2) Press the IMPEDANCE soft key. IMPEDANCE MODE will be displayed.
3) Ensure that the analyzer is in Repetitive mode (if there is no continuously flashing asterisk (*) in
the top left-hand-corner of the screen press the front panel Sngl/Rep control key—the analyzer will
briefly indicate which mode it is entering (shown in Figure 4-10 and Figure 4-11)).
4–28 Operation

4) Use the soft keys to select the following parameters. Pressing the soft keys will either
toggle between two options or, where more than two options are available, scroll through
the options from left to right, one option at a time.
AC Meas
L
Q
Series
5) Using the navigation keys, highlight and set each of the following parameters in turn. Use
the and navigation keys to highlight a parameter and the and navigation keys to
alter the highlighted parameter setting. Settings may be altered one step at a time, or
continuously by holding the navigation key down.
100mVac
10.000kHz
DC Bias OFF set with the front panel Bias control key (shown in Figure 4-4 and Figure 4-7)
NORM can be set to BOOST only when a 3265B External Bias Unit is connected
Range Auto
Speed Med
ALC on
6) Connect the component to be measured to the test leads or fixture. The screen will display
the measured values of L and Q. The display should be similar to Figure 4-33 below.

Figure 4-33 Example Display when Measuring the Inductance and Quality Factor of a 100µH Inductor
 Operation 4–29

4.7.2 IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters

The following IMPEDANCE MODE parameters are selectable with the ten soft keys to the
right of the display.

Rdc Meas DC measurement of resistors. The drive level is fixed at 100mV

(short circuit current 10mA). The only measurement options are
range and speed.

AC Meas Allows AC measurements to be performed at the selected drive

level and frequency. The measurement terms and equivalent circuit
are set with the next three soft keys.

LCZ The first measurement term.

When Z is selected, the second measurement term is angle ( º ) and
the Q D R and Parallel/Series soft keys are not appropriate and
therefore not shown.

QDR The second measurement term.

Parallel/Series Parallel or Series equivalent circuit. This soft key is not available
when Z is selected: see the narrative on L C Z (above).

Show Scale/Hide Scale Toggles between Show Scale and Hide Scale. The selection either
shows a diagram of the equivalent circuit, i.e. Parallel or Series,
or shows a bar graph representation of either of the measurement
terms (selectable by setting the nominal and limits, see Abs %
below). The bar graph scale can either be used as a quick visual
verification that the component is within the limits set, or can be
used for adjustment of variable components. When the
measurement falls within the centre band the analyzer reports
PASS; when the measurement falls above or below the centre band
the analyzer reports HI or LO.
Notes:
1) The centre portion of the scale length is proportional to the
measured value, but scale compression is used above and
below the centre band.
2) If the binning option is fitted, an external output is available to
indicate PASS or FAIL, see sections 4.1.11 and 4.1.11.5 for
details.
4–30 Operation

Abs % Only available when the bar graph scale is displayed. Toggles
between Abs and %. When Abs is selected, absolute Hi and Lo
limits (i.e. units of the measured parameter) are displayed. When
% is selected, a nominal value together with Hi and Lo percentage
limits are displayed.
The limits and nominal value (if applicable) must be set using the
and navigation keys to highlight each parameter and the data
entry keypad to set each value (the use of the data entry keypad is
described in section 4.2.6). When in % mode, the bar graph scale
Hi and Lo limits can easily be set equidistant about the nominal by
setting either of the limits then highlighting the other limit and
pressing the keypad Enter key twice. This mimics the setting of
the other limit but with the opposite sign.

Save Nom Only available when the bar graph scale is displayed. If a standard
component exists, it can be connected to the test leads or fixture
and measured by the analyzer. Pressing Save Nom (when either
abs or % is selected) enters the most recent analyzer measurement
of the component as the nominal test value for comparing all
subsequent components with against % limits.
Notes:
1) To change this function from the first to the second measured
parameter (or vice versa), first enter a dummy value with units
via the keypad; e.g. to change from L to R, enter
[1] [units] [Ω] [Enter] then press the Save Nom key.
2) Do not use the Save Nom function if the measured value is
negative (e.g. an inductor measured above its self resonant
frequency).

Show Setup/Hide Setup Once the measurement parameters have been set, Hide Setup can
be selected to clear them from the screen. The parameter settings
are still valid and will be used for component measurements. The
bar graph scale and limits will still be displayed. Hide Setup is
used primarily to unclutter the display, making it more easily
readable. Selecting Show Setup will redisplay the parameter
settings.

CALIBRATE Enters CALIBRATE MODE which is used for Trimming (section

4.3) and Self Calibration (section 4.5).
 Operation 4–31

The following IMPEDANCE MODE parameters are those displayed in the bottom left-hand-
corner of the screen, shown in Figure 4-34. They are only visible when Hide Setup is NOT
SELECTED.

Figure 4-34 Non-Soft Key IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters

Drive Level Only available when AC Meas is selected. Set by highlighting the
parameter with the and navigation keys, then altering the
setting in pre-determined steps with the and navigation
keys, or by using the data entry keypad. The range is:
Rdc Meas mode Drive Level not displayed—Fixed at 100mV
(short circuit current 10mA)
AC Meas mode Variable between: 1mV–10V
or 50µA–200mA
(appropriate for low
impedance components)
See also ALC, below

Measurement Frequency Set by highlighting the parameter with the and navigation
keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the
and navigation keys, or by finer increments using the data entry
keypad. The range is:
20Hz to 3MHz
Fine or coarse frequency steps are available. Coarse steps vary in
increments of between 20% and 33%; fine steps vary in
increments of 1% or less. Set fine or coarse steps from the
SETTINGS page—see section 5.18, or use code 10 (fine steps) or
code 11 (coarse steps)—see section 4.2.6
4–32 Operation

DC Bias The DC Bias is turned ON and OFF with the Bias control key.
Before bias can be turned ON, the level must be set by
highlighting the parameter with the and navigation keys, then
altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the and
navigation keys, or by finer increments using the data entry
keypad. 1mA to 1A is available internally (NORM mode). With
one or more 3265B External Bias Units connected (max 5), the
unit may be toggled between NORM (internal bias) and BOOST
(external bias). Up to 25A per 3265B is available in BOOST
mode. For more information see section 4.2.5.

Range Toggles between auto range and manual range selection, set by
highlighting the parameter with the and navigation keys and
altering the setting with the and navigation keys. Auto
range automatically selects the most accurate range for the
measurement. Circumstances where manual ranging may be more
appropriate include:
• measuring non-linear components (auto range may hunt);
• to avoid the short auto range delay, for example when using
max speed with an auto handler.
The manual range is set using the data entry keypad. Ranges 1 to 7
are valid. When a manual range is selected, the equivalent
measurement range is shown on the display: although range
boundaries are impedance values they are converted to appropriate
L or C values.
At higher frequencies or reduced levels, availability of the highest
or lowest ranges is restricted. If a previously selected range is
changed due to a change in drive conditions, the selection will be
remembered by the analyzer and reapplied when drive conditions
allow it.

Speed Four measurement speeds are available: Slow, Med, Fast and
Max. Selecting slower measurement speeds increases the display
resolution and decreases measurement noise by averaging. The
measurement speed is set by highlighting the parameter with the
and navigation keys and altering the setting with the and
navigation keys.
The following measurement periods apply for Rdc Meas and AC
Meas ≥100Hz:
Max speed makes measurements at ≈40ms intervals and is
intended for automatic sorting under GPIB control.
Fast speed makes measurements at ≈100ms intervals and is
intended for non-critical measurements.
Med speed makes measurements at ≈300ms intervals and gives
 Operation 4–33

full measurement accuracy.

Slow speed makes measurements at ≈900ms intervals and gives
full measurement accuracy, maximum display resolution and
enhanced supply frequency rejection.

ALC ALC (Automatic Level Control) is only available for AC

measurements and works in conjunction with the drive level,
which has a 50Ω source impedance. It is set by highlighting the
parameter with the and navigation keys and altering the
setting with the and navigation keys.
Three ALC options are available: ALC off, ALC on and ALC
hold.
When ALC off is selected, the analyzer will not try to maintain the
drive level at the component. The drive level will therefore be
diminished according to the impedance of the component being
measured. For example, since the drive level source impedance is
50Ω, measuring a component which has an impedance of 100Ω
will reduce the drive level by:
50
x 100% = 33.3%
(50 + 100)
The level indicated on the display however, corresponds to the
open-circuit voltage or short-circuit current at the test fixture.
When ALC on is selected, the analyzer will try to maintain the
selected drive level at the component. If, due to the impedance of
the component being measured, it is unable to maintain the set
drive level, a message such as Figure 4-35 will be displayed at the
top of the display. If the drive level is diminished to such an extent
that measurement of the component is impossible, Figure 4-36 will
be reported instead. This will happen if the measure terminals are
short-circuited with voltage drive selected, or if they are open-
circuited with current drive selected.

Figure 4-35 Nearest Drive Level Warning

Figure 4-36 Cannot Set Level Warning

ALC hold is intended for the fastest possible repetitive

measurement, either manually or under GPIB control, of
components which should have the same impedance value. If,
when a representative component is measured with ALC on, ALC
hold is then selected, the drive level voltage is maintained at the
4–34 Operation

drive source. Therefore, the drive level at the fixture jaws will rise
when a component is removed and will return to the correct level
when a new component of the same impedance is inserted
( may be reported at the top of the display with no
component in the fixture jaws). The range is also maintained at
that used for measuring the representative component. When using
ALC hold therefore, the analyzer does not spend time computing
the correct ALC compensation and range, thus making
measurements quicker.
 Advanced Operation 5–1

5. ADVANCED OPERATION
This section will provide the user with a guide to:
• front panel connections;
• in-circuit measurements;
• measurement of very small capacitors;
• measurement of very small inductors;
• measurement of iron-cored and ferrite inductors;
• measurement of transformers;
• using the various modes available from the MAIN MENU, with the exception of
CALIBRATE MODE which is covered in sections 4.3 to 4.6, and IMPEDANCE MODE
which is covered in section 4.7.

5.1 Front Panel Connections

5.1.1 Connection Protocol

The analyzer has two sets of four front panel BNC sockets for screened cable connections to
the device under test (DUT). In each case the outer connection provides the screening and the
inner is the active connection. The four Primary BNC sockets provide screened Kelvin
connections for transformer primary or impedance measurements and the four Secondary BNC
sockets provide Kelvin connections for transformer secondary and bin handler sense
connections.
In some cases it may prove more convenient to use leads with crocodile clips or other special
terminations. See section 3.3 for a description of the measurement lead sets available from
Wayne Kerr Electronics and for details of the connection protocol for manufacturing special
test leads.
In all modes except HANDLER MODE the innermost pair of panel connectors carry the signal
source (ORANGE) and current return (RED) signals, while the outer pair serve to monitor the
actual voltage at the DUT, excluding any voltage drops arising in the source and return leads.
Due to the different lead configuration when in HANDLER MODE the innermost pair of
Primary panel connectors carry the signal source (ORANGE) and current return (RED)
signals, while the innermost pair of Secondary panel connectors monitor the actual voltage at
the DUT, excluding any voltage drops arising in the source and return leads.
The following tables illustrate the connection protocol for use in impedance, transformer and
handler modes.
5–2 Advanced Operation

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Brown Red Orange Yellow

LEADS not used not used not used not used
Sense Low Drive Low Drive High Sense High

leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test

Figure 5-1 Connection Protocol for IMPEDANCE MODE

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Connect one lead set to transformer primary Connect 2nd lead set to transformer secondary

LEADS Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Sense Low Drive Low Drive High Sense High Sense Low Drive Low Drive High Sense High

Figure 5-2 Connection Protocol for TRANSFORME/TELECOM MODE

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Connect to fixture/scanner leads as shown below (n.c. = no connection)

Red Orange Brown Yellow

HANDLER n.c. n.c. n.c. n.c.
Drive Low Drive High Sense Low Sense High

Figure 5-3 Connection Protocol for HANDLER MODE

5.1.2 Two-, Three- and Four-Terminal Connections

For low impedances, the main advantage of four-terminal connections is to reduce the effect of
contact resistance variations at the DUT. With Kelvin clip leads or the four-terminal
component fixture 1EV1006, screened four-terminal connections are made automatically to the
DUT.
If the impedance being measured is greater than 1kΩ and contact resistance variation is not a
problem, two-terminal connection is adequate, the S/C trim facility being used to remove the
effect of series lead impedance. To maintain accuracy when using two-terminal connections, do
not plug anything into the BROWN or YELLOW BNC sockets
 Advanced Operation 5–3

If the DUT has a large area of metal not connected to either of its terminals (e.g. a screen or
core), this should be separately connected to ground using the green clip lead; but if there is a
relatively large unscreened conducting surface which is connected to one of its terminals (e.g.
an air-spaced tuning capacitor), this should be connected to the ORANGE signal source lead to
minimize noise pick-up.
Measurement connections to transformers are simplified by providing separate primary and
secondary connections. These are automatically reconfigured by the instrument to suit the
selected test mode.
The front panel BNC LEDs indicates which BNC connections are active in each case

5.2 In-Circuit Measurements

A component connected into a circuit can usually be measured even when the impedances of
other components connected to it are comparable to or less than that of the DUT. This is
possible by connecting one side of all such components to the grounded neutral terminal of the
analyzer, as shown in Figure 5-4. The components Zd and Zs are connected to ground via the
green clip lead when using Wayne Kerr Electronics leads.

Figure 5-4 In-Circuit Measurements

The presence of Zd introduces a small measurement error, dependant on the frequency and
impedance range in use. Figure 5-5 shows the minimum shunt impedance (i.e. R, ωL or ωC) for
an additional error (magnitude or phase) not exceeding 1%. Note that when measuring high
impedances it may be beneficial to use a drive level greater than 1V or to manually select a
lower measurement range (see section 4.7.2—IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters).
5–4 Advanced Operation

Range No Freq Range Level ≤1V Level >1V

≤10kHz Curve A Curve A

7
>10kHz Curve A Curve B

≤100kHz Curve A Curve B

6
>100kHz Curve B Curve C

≤1MHz Curve B Curve C

5
>1ΜHz Curve C Curve C

1–4 All Curve C Curve C

Figure 5-5 Effect of shunt loading on current terminal

The main effect of adding Zs alone is to reduce the available drive signal. When measuring
high impedances, this effect is dominated by the fixed 50Ω output impedance of the signal
source. For example, a shunt resistance of 50Ω may be expected to halve the available output
level. When measuring components with an impedance below 50Ω, the degree of reduction will
be less. Note that when ALC is turned ON (see section 4.7.2) the displayed level will always
correspond to the actual level at the measurement terminals.
When Zd and Zs are connected simultaneously, an additional measurement error occurs due to
the impedance of the guard lead (Zg). This error may become significant if the DUT is larger
than Zd and Zs, and is given by
DUT x Zd
Error % = 100 x
Zs x Zd
At low frequencies Zg is up to 40mΩ for lead types 1EVA40100, 1EVA40180 or 1EV1505. At
frequencies above 10kHz the series inductance, which depends to some extent on lead and
component positioning, may become significant. For lowest inductance, minimize the area of
the loop formed by the Red (current detector) lead, via Zd and the Green lead to neutral. In this
case the inductance should not exceed 0.25µH.
Note that at low frequencies (<2kHz) the effective guard resistance can be reduced by a factor
of 2:1 or more by returning Zs and Zd directly to the outer of the Red BNC connector. However
this technique increases the loop inductance and any benefit is lost at frequencies above 5kHz.

5.3 Measurement of Very Small Capacitors

For best accuracy when measuring small value capacitors it is necessary to perform an O/C trim
(see section 4.3.1) at the frequency to be used for the measurement and to ensure that the
measurement leads are not moved between the trimming and the measurement. A level of 1V is
an optimum value for minimizing lead errors as this is the level used during the trim operation.
When measuring surface-mount or leadless capacitors with the two-terminal SMD tweezers,
part no. 1EVA40120, the cam should be used to set the jaw spacing of the tweezers to the width
of the DUT when performing the O/C trim so that the residual capacitance of the tweezers is
trimmed out.
 Advanced Operation 5–5

5.4 Measurement of Very Small Inductors

The analyzer measures the difference between the inductance of S/C trimming and the
inductance of the DUT. Stable measurement lead arrangements are essential for low inductance
measurements; the use of the four-terminal component fixture, part no. 1EV1006, is
recommended for leaded components. When using this fixture, S/C trim (see section 4.3.1) is
achieved by placing a wire across the jaws:
a 5cm length of 1mm diameter wire has an inductance of 50nH
a 5cm length of 2mm diameter wire has an inductance of 40nH
The known inductance of the wire used for the S/C trim should be subtracted from the
measured DUT inductance.
A similar stable fixture arrangement should be used for four-terminal measurements of surface-
mount or leadless components: contact the Wayne Kerr Electronics Applications Department if
this kind of fixture is required.
The Q is always low, but self-capacitance is not normally a problem at the analyzer’s
measurement frequencies. For best inductance measurement results, make the measurement at
200kHz in series configuration. Where possible, make the measurements at an AC level of
100mA which is the level used during trimming.
When an inductor is measured at a frequency much lower than that for which it is designed (e.g.
an HF choke tested at AF) it will tend to behave as an inductive resistor. In these
circumstances, the inductance measurement accuracy is widened by the factor (1 + 1/Q).
Air-cored coils are particularly susceptible to noise pick up and should be kept well clear of any
test equipment that may contain power transformers or display scan circuitry. Also avoid
proximity to metal objects which may modify inductor characteristics. Whenever possible,
measure at 10kHz. If low frequency measurements are required and trouble persists, use slow
measurement speed.

5.5 Measurement of Iron-Cored and Ferrite Inductors

The effective value of iron-cored and ferrite inductors can vary widely with the magnetization,
and therefore the level, of the test signal. Ideally, they should be measured at the AC level and
frequency of use. When core materials can be damaged by excessive magnetization (for
example, some tape heads and microphone transformers), check before connection that the test
signal level is acceptable.
Iron-cored inductors, including transformers, are susceptible to disaccommodation arising from
electrical, magnetic, mechanical and thermal shock; any of which can produce transient or
permanent change in inductance. The effect is worst in un-gapped iron-cored inductors at low
drive levels. Since the shocks can be caused by large changes in level of the driving signal, it is
advisable to change the drive level in small increments. The transient changes have long
recovery time-constants, so successive measurements (at the same conditions) on a shocked
inductor, will show unidirectional changing values. The time taken for the overall change of
level, will depend on the component itself and the accuracy required..

5.6 Measurement of Transformers

When measuring transformers, two sets of Kelvin clip leads are used: one set is connected to
the primary, and the other set to the secondary, of a transformer. 2- or 4-terminal measurement
5–6 Advanced Operation

may be selected. Use 4-terminal measurement if the primary impedance is particularly low. If
accurate level control is required, select ALC on.

5.7 TRANSFORMER MODE

TRANSFORMER MODE allows seven different transformer parameters to be measured,
selectable from the soft keys. The measurement parameters of each type of transformer test are
independent of other transformer tests and other measurement modes when the instrument is set
to non-global test conditions (see section 5.18—The SETTINGS Page). This allows a single
key stroke to restore the preset test conditions of the corresponding test, configure the test
connections and trigger a measurement, greatly simplifying complex test procedures. One
exception is that Leakage(Pri) and Leakage(Sec) tests share the same measurement
conditions. INSULATION MODE, when fitted, can be accessed directly from
TRANSFORMER MODE.
Two sets of measurement leads are required; see Figure 5-2 for the connection protocol. Active
connections depend on the type of transformer test selected and are indicated by the LEDs
above the BNC connectors. The general procedure when using TRANSFORMER MODE is
as follows.
1) Select the Menu control key, followed by the TRANSFORMER soft key.
2) Connect the measurement leads, see Figure 5-2.
3) Select 2- or 4-terminal measurement.
4) From TRANSFORMER MODE select the CALIBRATE soft key.
5) Refer to section 4.3 and perform the following trims (not required for Turns Ratio
measurements).
a) O/C Trim (Pri)
b) S/C Trim (Pri)
c) O/C Trim (Pri–Sec)
d) S/C Trim (Sec)
e) HF Lead Compensation if a test frequency of 200kHz or greater is to be used.
6) Select the TRANSFORMER soft key to return to TRANSFORMER MODE.
7) Select the transformer test required, e.g. L + Q (Pri), with the appropriate soft key.
8) Change the setup parameters, e.g. drive level, frequency, as necessary for the test, being
careful not to exceed the limitations of the component to be measured.
9) Connect Primary and Secondary leads to the appropriate transformer windings.
10) If the setup parameters are hidden, press Show Setup.
11) If the instrument is set to make repetitive measurements, the measurement will displayed on
the screen, otherwise press the Trigger control key to initiate a measurement.
 Advanced Operation 5–7

5.7.1 Example
This example will take the user through the process of making a 2-terminal measurement of the
turns ratio of a transformer. The settings used are examples only and the user may substitute
other settings, subject to the limitations of the component to be measured. The analyzer should
be powered up with the test leads or fixture connected to the front panel BNC connectors
according to the connection protocol for transformer mode (see Figure 5-2).
1) Press the front panel Menu control key. The MAIN MENU will be displayed.
2) Press the TRANSFORMER soft key. TRANSFORMER MODE will be displayed.
3) Press the CALIBRATE soft key and perform the trims listed in section 5.7 paragraph 5).
When the trims are complete, press the TRANSFORMER soft key to return to
TRANSFORMER MODE.
4) Ensure that the analyzer is in Repetitive mode (if there is no continuously flashing asterisk
(*) in the top left-hand-corner of the screen press the front panel Sngl/Rep control key—the
analyzer will briefly indicate which mode it is entering (shown in Figure 4-10 and Figure
4-11).
5) If the 2/4 Term LED is not lit, press the 2/4 Term control key. The 2/4 Term LED should
light and 2-TERM TRANSFORMER MODE should be displayed at the top of the screen.
6) Press the Turns Ratio soft key.
7) Using the navigation keys, highlight and set each of the following parameters in turn. Use
the and navigation keys to highlight a parameter and the data entry keypad or and
navigation keys to alter the highlighted parameter setting. Settings may be altered one
step at a time, or continuously by holding the navigation key down.
100mVac
10.000kHz
Ratio: Np/Ns
Range Auto
Speed Med
ALC off
8) Connect the component to be measured to the test leads or fixture. The screen will display
the measured value of turns ratio.
5–8 Advanced Operation

Figure 5-6 Example of Measuring Turns Ratio in TRANSFORMER MODE

5.7.2 TRANSFORMER MODE Parameters

The following TRANSFORMER MODE parameters are selectable with the ten soft keys to
the right of the display. Parameters which are common to both TRANSFORMER MODE and
IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.

L + Q (Pri) Measures the inductance (L) and quality factor (Q) of the
transformer primary winding. The Equ cct parameter allows
selection of either Parallel or Series resistance in the transformer
primary winding. When Equ cct is set to Auto, the analyzer makes
a measurement of the primary winding resistance and sets series or
parallel equivalent circuit according to the following criterion:
Primary winding resistance >250Ω = Parallel equivalent circuit
Primary winding resistance <250Ω = Series equivalent circuit

Turns Ratio Measures the turns ratio of a transformer. Turns ratio can be
displayed as Np/Ns or Ns/Np. When maximum resolution is
required, choose the display which is greater than unity. The value
displayed is the ratio of measured voltages, hence non-integer
results are likely. Trimming and high frequency lead compensation
are not required for turns ratio measurements.
A negative reading when measuring turns ratio implies a reverse-
connected winding. Check the winding sense convention.
Secondary turns (Ns) can be displayed. This requires the primary
turns (Np) to be preset via the data entry keyboard. Allowable
values of Np are between 0.001 and 10000.
For accurate measurement of turns ratio, software correction can
 Advanced Operation 5–9

be employed when the primary impedance is high (typically

>50Ω). A transparent primary leakage measurement is performed
before the turns ratio measurement. Because this involves
operating relays inside the 3260B, normal repetitive measurements
are disabled with the ratio correction algorithm operating. Ratio
correction is NOT automatically performed by the instrument.
Instead, the user must set it ON or OFF and define whether the
transformer is a normal type (floating secondary) or an auto-
transformer (one end grounded) as this affects the loading
corrections. This selection is made either from the SETTINGS
page (see section 5.18), or by using keypad codes 14, 15 and 16
when in TRANSFORMER MODE or HANDLER MODE (see
section 4.2.6.1). If the primary impedance is low, the turns ratio
correction should be turned OFF. If a ratio correction option other
than OFF is selected, it is displayed when Turns Ratio is selected
in TRANSFORMER MODE.
For step-up transformers, the measured secondary voltage is
limited to 10Vrms.
Constant current drive is not provided for turns ratio
measurements.

Rdc (Pri) The series DC resistance of the transformer primary winding.

Rdc (Sec) The series DC resistance of the transformer secondary winding.

Leakage (Pri) The series leakage inductance and resistance of the transistor
primary winding. Best results will be obtained by short-circuiting
the transformer secondary winding(s). A message is displayed to
this effect when the mode is initially selected. Leakage (Pri) and
Leakage (Sec) tests share the same measurement conditions.

Leakage (Sec) The series leakage inductance and resistance of the transistor
secondary winding. Best results will be obtained by short-
circuiting the transformer primary winding. A message is
displayed to this effect when the mode is initially selected.
Leakage (Pri) and Leakage (Sec) tests share the same measurement
conditions.

C (Pri–Sec) The capacitance between the transformer primary and secondary

windings at the selected voltage and frequency test conditions.

INSULATION Enters INSULATION MODE, see section 5.8.

The following TRANSFORMER MODE parameters are those displayed in the bottom left-
hand-corner of the screen, shown in Figure 5-6. They are only visible when Hide Setup is NOT
SELECTED.
5–10 Advanced Operation

Drive Level This parameter is available during measurement of L + Q (Pri),

Turns Ratio, Leakage (Pri), Leakage (Sec), C (Pri–Sec).
When Turns Ratio or C (Pri–Sec) is selected, only voltage drive
can be set. All other settings listed above will accept either voltage
or current drive, set by highlighting the parameter with the and
navigation keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps
with the and navigation keys, or by using the data entry
keypad. The range is:
L + Q (Pri); 1mV–10V 50µA–200mA
Leakage (Pri); At frequencies above 300kHz the maximum
Leakage (Sec). current drive is restricted.

Turns Ratio; 1mV–10V; no current drive

C (Pri–Sec).

Rdc (Pri); Drive Level not displayed—Fixed at 100mV

Rdc (Sec). (short circuit current 10mA)
See also ALC, in section 4.7.2—IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters

Equ cct: Available only for L + Q (Pri) measurements. Selectable between

Series, Parallel, or Auto. See L + Q (Pri), above.

Ratio Available only for Turns Ratio measurement. Selectable between

Np/Ns, Ns/Np or Ns Np=x, where x is a value between 0.001 and
10000.
See Turns Ratio, above.

5.8 INSULATION MODE (Optional)

Insulation tests can be made between transformer windings, and from each winding to the
grounded metal case or shell of the transformer. For each transformer winding, the test voltage
is applied to one BNC connector only, as indicated by the front panel LEDs. If 4-terminal
operation is selected, this is the BROWN BNC connector (voltage sense low). For 2-terminal
operation it is the RED BNC connector (drive current return). The active connections are
shown in section 5.8.1—Connections.
The insulation test is a 3-terminal function. If measuring insulation between primary and
secondary windings, any leakage to grounded terminals (e.g. the transformer case or shell) will
be ignored. The insulation from either winding to grounded terminals may be separately
measured, in which case primary to secondary leakage will be ignored. If a measurement of
total leakage resistance between windings is required, make no connection to the ground lead
(i.e. the green clip lead).
Insulation tests are performed in single-shot mode with the Trigger control key being used to
initiate each measurement. If the Trigger key is pressed and held, the analyzer will make
 Advanced Operation 5–11

repetitive measurements until the key is released. To minimize the risk of electric shock, high
voltages are applied to the test leads only during testing.

WARNING!

AVOID TOUCHING THE TEST CONNECTIONS DURING MEASUREMENT OR

TRIMMING OPERATIONS. Although the current is limited to a safe level, there is a risk
of electric shock, especially at 200V and 500V test levels. Unless energy is stored in
components, e.g. capacitors, connected to the measurement terminals, the voltage at the
measurement terminals will be removed within 0.5 seconds of test completion.

Unless global measurement conditions are selected (see section 5.18—The SETTINGS Page),
the test voltage and other settings may be set differently for each of the three test types.
The insulation test cannot be performed if the test current exceeds 1mA, i.e. if the impedance is
too low. This corresponds to a minimum resistance of 100kΩ at 100V, 200kΩ at 200V or
500kΩ at 500V. In this case a message, shown in Figure 5-7, will be displayed.

Figure 5-7 INSULATION MODE: Current Too Large

Note
If the INSULATION soft key is pressed when the insulation option is not fitted, the analyzer
will report Unit Not Available (Figure 5-8).

Figure 5-8 Unit Not Available

5.8.1 Connections
Except when using a handler or 4-wire scanner, the standard connection protocol for
TRANSFORMER/TELECOM MODE may be used for all insulation test types. This is
shown in Figure 5-2. The tables below show the active connection for each test. Leads marked
not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.
For operation with a 4-wire scanner the scanner relays should be configured as for turns ratio
measurement. During Insulation mode operation, set the instrument to 2-terminal operation.
Since a 4-wire scanner is connected to the analyzer with HANDLER MODE lead
configuration (see Figure 5-3), it is not possible to perform a primary to secondary winding test.
5–12 Advanced Operation

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Red
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used not used
Drive Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the RED lead to the transformer primary, and the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or shell.

Figure 5-9 Active Connection for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–GND)

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Brown
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used not used
Sense Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the BROWN lead to the transformer primary, and the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or
shell.

Figure 5-10 Active Connection for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–GND)

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Red
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used not used
Drive Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the RED lead to the transformer secondary, and the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or shell.

Figure 5-11 Active Connection for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Sec–GND)

 Advanced Operation 5–13

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Brown
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used not used
Sense Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the BROWN lead to the transformer secondary, and the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or
shell.

Figure 5-12 Active Connection for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Sec–GND)

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Red Red
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used
Drive Low Drive Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the Primary RED lead to the transformer primary, and the Secondary RED lead to the transformer secondary.

Figure 5-13 Active Connections for 2-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–Sec)

Primary BNC Connectors Secondary BNC Connectors

INSTRUMENT
Brown Red Orange Yellow Brown Red Orange Yellow

Brown Brown
LEADS not used not used not used not used not used not used
Sense Low Sense Low

Leads marked not used may be left connected to the analyzer but are not used for the insulation test.

Connect the Primary BROWN lead to the transformer primary, and the Secondary BROWN lead to the transformer
secondary.

Figure 5-14 Active Connections for 4-TERM INSULATION MODE (Pri–Sec)

5.8.2 Trimming
For INSULATION MODE operation, trimming compensates for any residual leakage current
in the test leads or fixture. For maximum accuracy the trimming operation should be performed
with the test leads connected to the instrument but isolated from each other.

WARNING!
5–14 Advanced Operation

The test connections are at a high voltage during this trim. While high voltage is applied,
a message, shown in Figure 5-15 below, will be displayed on the screen. To minimize the
risk of electric shock, AVOID TOUCHING THE TEST CONNECTIONS DURING THE
TRIMMING OPERATION.

Figure 5-15 High Voltage ON warning

When trimming for manual operation:

1) Ensure that the measurement leads/fixture are connected to the analyzer according to the
connection protocol shown in Figure 5-2.
2) Ensure 2-terminal or 4-terminal operation is selected as required for subsequent
measurements.
3) Carry out O/C Trim (Pri-Sec) as detailed in section 4.3.2.

When trimming for HANDLER MODE operation:

1) Ensure that the handler/scanner is connected to the analyzer according to the connection
protocol shown in Figure 5-3.
2) Either:
a) select Handler Calibration from CALIBRATE MODE;
or
b) select CALIBRATE directly from HANDLER MODE.
3) Select the Insulation Trim soft key.
4) Wait until the analyzer has finished trimming.

Notes:
1) The stored trim values will be applied during 2-terminal insulation tests, even if AC
impedance and Rdc trimming correspond to 4-terminal operation.
2) The Insulation Trim soft key is not available when CALIBRATE is selected from
INSULATION MODE.
3) If Insulation Trim is attempted with Kelvin clip leads attached to the analyzer in
HANDLER MODE configuration, the trim will fail because the RED and BROWN leads
are shorted by the Kelvin clip.

5.8.3 Operation
The general procedure when using INSULATION MODE is as follows.
1) Select the Menu control key, followed by the INSULATION soft key.
 Advanced Operation 5–15

2) Connect the measurement leads to the analyzer according to the connection protocol
detailed in section 5.8.1.
3) Select 2- or 4-terminal measurement.
4) Refer to section 5.8.2 and trim the leads/fixture.
5) Select the insulation test required, i.e. Pri–Sec, Pri–GND or Sec–GND, with the
appropriate soft key.
6) If the setup parameters are hidden, press Show Setup.
7) Change the setup parameters, i.e. Level, Range and Speed, as necessary for the test.
8) Connect the measurement leads/fixture to the transformer (see section 5.8.1—
Connections).
9) Select the measurement unit to display with the µA MΩ soft key.
10) Press the Trigger control key to initiate a measurement.

5.8.4 Example
This example will take the user through the process of performing all three insulation test types
on a transformer. The settings used are examples only and the user may substitute other settings
as required. The analyzer should be powered up with two sets of Kelvin clip leads connected to
the Primary and Secondary front panel BNC sockets according to the connection protocol
shown in Figure 5-2 .
1) Press the front panel Menu control key. The MAIN MENU will be displayed.
2) Press the INSULATION soft key. INSULATION MODE will be displayed.
3) Select either 2- or 4-terminal measurement, as required for subsequent tests, with the 2/4
Term control key. For this example, 4-terminal measurement will be selected.
4) Press the CALIBRATE soft key and perform an O/C Trim (Pri–Sec). If necessary refer to
section 4.3.2 for trimming details. When the trim is complete, press the INSULATION soft
key to return to INSULATION MODE.

WARNING!

The test connections are at a high voltage during this trim. While high voltage is
applied, a message, shown in Figure 5-15 above, will be displayed on the screen. To
minimize the risk of electric shock, AVOID TOUCHING THE TEST CONNECTIONS
DURING THE TRIMMING OPERATION.

5) Press the Pri–Sec soft key.

6) Using the µA MΩ soft key, ensure that µA is highlighted.
7) Using the navigation keys, highlight and set each of the following parameters in turn. Use
the and navigation keys to highlight a parameter and the and navigation keys to
alter the highlighted parameter setting.
5–16 Advanced Operation

Level 500V this can also be set with the data entry keypad.
Range Auto
Speed Med
8) Connect the Primary BROWN BNC connector to one end of the transformer primary
winding. Connect the Secondary BROWN BNC connector to one end of the transformer
secondary winding. The LEDs above the BROWN BNC connectors should be lit to show
that they are the active connections. There should be no other connections to the
transformer.
9) Press the Trigger control key to initiate the measurement. Figure 5-15, above, will be
displayed while high voltage is applied to the measurement terminals and the measurement
result will be displayed.

WARNING!

AVOID TOUCHING THE TEST CONNECTIONS DURING MEASUREMENT

OPERATIONS. Although the current is limited to a safe level, there is a risk of electric
shock, especially at 200V and 500V test levels. Unless energy is stored in components,
e.g. capacitors, connected to the measurement terminals, the voltage at the
measurement terminals will be removed within 0.5 seconds of test completion.

10) Press the Pri–GND soft key and, if necessary, re-establish the measurement conditions
outlined in steps 6) and 7).
11) Connect the Primary BROWN BNC connector to one end of the transformer primary
winding. Connect the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or screen The
LED above the Primary BROWN BNC connector should be lit to show that it is the active
connection. There should be no other connections to the transformer.
12) Press the Trigger control key to initiate the measurement. Figure 5-15, above, will be
displayed while high voltage is applied to the measurement terminals and the measurement
result will be displayed.
13) Press the Sec–GND soft key and, if necessary, re-establish the measurement conditions
outlined in steps 6) and 7).
14) Connect the Secondary BROWN BNC connector to one end of the transformer secondary
winding. Connect the GREEN CLIP LEAD to the transformer metal case or screen The
LED above the Secondary BROWN BNC connector should be lit to show that it is the
active connection. There should be no other connections to the transformer.
15) Press the Trigger control key to initiate the measurement. Figure 5-15, above, will be
displayed while high voltage is applied to the measurement terminals and the measurement
result will be displayed.
 Advanced Operation 5–17

Figure 5-16 INSULATION MODE: display readouts from above example

5.8.5 INSULATION MODE Parameters

The following INSULATION MODE parameters are selectable with the soft keys to the right
of the display. Parameters which are common to both INSULATION MODE and
IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.

µA MΩ Selects the measurement unit to display, either µA or MΩ. See

also Range, below.

Pri–Sec Sets the analyzer to measure leakage current between the

transformer primary and secondary windings. Depending on
whether the analyzer is set to 2- or 4-terminal measurement, the
active connections, shown by the LEDs above the BNC
connectors, are either the RED or BROWN BNC connectors
respectively. For measurements in this mode, the active Primary
BNC is connected to one end of the transformer primary winding
and the active Secondary BNC is connected to one end of the
transformer secondary winding.

Pri–GND Sets the analyzer to measure leakage current between the

transformer primary winding and its grounded metal case or
screen. Depending on whether the analyzer is set to 2- or 4-
terminal measurement, the active connections, shown by the LEDs
above the BNC connectors, are the RED or BROWN Primary
BNC connector and the ground lead, which is the green clip lead
when using Wayne Kerr Kelvin clip leads. For measurements in
this mode, the active Primary BNC is connected to one end of the
transformer primary winding and the ground lead is connected to
the transformer metal case or screen.

Sec–GND Sets the analyzer to measure leakage current between the

transformer secondary winding and its grounded metal case or
screen. Depending on whether the analyzer is set to 2- or 4-
terminal measurement, the active connections, shown by the LEDs
above the BNC connectors, are the RED or BROWN Secondary
BNC connector and the ground lead, which is the green clip lead
when using Wayne Kerr Kelvin clip leads. For measurements in
5–18 Advanced Operation

this mode, the active Secondary BNC is connected to one end of

the transformer secondary winding and the ground lead is
connected to the transformer metal case or screen.

TRANSFORMER Enters TRANSFORMER MODE see section 5.7

The following INSULATION MODE parameters are those displayed in the bottom left-hand-
corner of the screen, shown in Figure 5-16. They are only visible when Hide Setup is NOT
SELECTED.
Level The DC voltage level used for the insulation test. This parameter is
selected with the and navigation keys and is altered with the
and navigation keys or with the data entry keypad. Levels
of 100V, 200V or 500V are available.

Range Enables manual or auto range to be set. The parameter is

highlighted with the or navigation key and toggled between
manual and auto range with the or navigation key. When
manual ranging is selected, the range is set with the data entry
keypad. Because of the low levels of current measured in
INSULATION MODE only ranges 1 and 2 are valid. Entering a
higher range will result in Figure 4-14, above, being displayed and
the nearest available range being set. When the analyzer is set to
display units of MΩ, even though high ohmic values would be
expected, manual ranges are still limited to 1 or 2 because the
analyzer actually measures the leakage current and converts it to
ohms before displaying the result.

5.9 BINNING MODE (Optional)

BINNING MODE allows components to be sorted into bins according to their measured value
and/or minor term. Bins 0 to 8 contain the sorted components and bin 9 the rejects. Binning is
normally done in Single shot mode or under GPIB control. Using Repetitive mode will disable
the Count facility, but can be used if this is not required. The measurement conditions and test
parameters are independent of other modes when the instrument is set to non-global test
conditions (see section 5.18—The SETTINGS Page).
BINNING MODE is divided into three sections: Set, Sort and Count.

5.9.1 BINNING MODE – Set

When BINNING is selected from the MAIN MENU the analyzer will display the last binning
mode used. If BINNING MODE – Set is not displayed at the top of the screen, press the BIN
SET soft key to select it. Figure 5-17 shows the BINNING MODE – Set main screen set to
measure turns ratio against a nominal of 1 with a drive level of 1V AC and a frequency of
10kHz.
 Advanced Operation 5–19

Figure 5-17 BINNING MODE – Set Main Screen

In Figure 5-17 above, the bins are shown ready to receive percentage limits. Absolute limits can
be entered by highlighting Abs with the Abs % soft key. Either nested or stacked limits can be
entered. When entering nested limits, the second limit in a row can be entered by highlighting it
and pressing the keypad Enter key twice. This mimics the setting of the first limit but with the
opposite sign. Since the analyzer will accept one set of percentage limits and another set of
absolute limits it is possible to enter a set of nested percentage limits and a set of stacked
absolute limits, or vice versa. The only limitation to this is that the minor term, when displayed,
is common to both percentage and absolute limits.
When using percentage limits, the nominal component value must also be entered by pressing
the Nominal soft key, then entering the nominal component value with the data entry keypad.
Any limit set to zero is ignored during subsequent sorting. Bins can therefore be set up with no
minor term limit.
The minor term limit is a single maximum or minimum value as appropriate, e.g. Q would have
a minimum limit, indicated by Minor Q > x.

Figure 5-18 BINNING MODE Figure 5-19 BINNING MODE

Nested Percentage Limits Stacked Absolute Limits

The example shown in Figure 5-18 above would sort transformers on the basis of their %
deviation from primary winding inductance and Q factor. In this case, a transformer with a
5–20 Advanced Operation

primary winding inductance of 100mH ±0.5% and a Q factor greater than 0.5 would be sorted
into bin 2.
Figure 5-19 is an alternative set-up with stacked limits, sorting the transformers by absolute
value. In this case, a transformer with a primary winding inductance of 112mH and a Q factor
greater than 0.5 would be sorted into bin 3.

5.9.1.1 BINNING MODE – Set Parameters

Parameters which are common to IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—
IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.
Reset Resets all bin limits to 0 after displaying a warning message, shown in
Figure 5-20 below. Confirm by pressing the Yes soft key. Absolute
and percentage limits must be reset separately, but since the minor
term is common to both, it is reset from either limits mode.

Figure 5-20 BINNING MODE – Set: Reset Warning

Series/Parallel Only available for tests of: L + Q (Pri), L + R (Pri), C + D (Pri),

and L + R (Sec). Selects series or parallel equivalent circuit for
measurement of the selected parameters.

Abs % Toggles between Abs and %. When Abs is selected, absolute Hi

and Lo limits (i.e. units of the measured parameter) are displayed.
When % is selected, a nominal value together with Hi and Lo
percentage limits are displayed.
The limits and nominal value must be set using the navigation keys
to highlight each parameter, and the data entry keypad to set each
value (the use of the data entry keypad is described in section
4.2.6). When in % mode, the Hi and Lo limits can be set
equidistant about the nominal by setting either of the limits then
highlighting the other limit and pressing the keypad Enter key
twice. This mimics the setting of the first limit but with the
opposite sign.

Nominal This soft key operates only when percentage limits are displayed.
The nominal value is displayed below the percentage limits and
can be seen, set to 100mH, in Figure 5-18. The nominal is set by
pressing the Nominal soft key and entering the value using the
data entry keypad.
 Advanced Operation 5–21

BIN SORT Enters BINNING MODE – Sort: see section 5.9.2.

BIN COUNT Enters BINNING MODE – Count: see section 5.9.3

Set Test Pressing the Set Test soft key displays the available measurement
options. The required option is highlighted with the and
navigation keys and selected by pressing the Enter test soft key.

Figure 5-21 BINNING MODE – Set, Measurement Options

Set Bin Moves the cursor, and confines it to, the bin limits area of the
screen. The limits are set by highlighting each field using the
navigation keys, then entering the limits with the data entry
keypad. The and navigation keys move the cursor left and
right one step at a time; the and navigation keys move the
cursor up and down the column. See section 5.9.1 for more
information about setting bin limits.

Set Condition Moves the cursor, and confines it to, the test conditions area of the
screen (bottom-left-corner). The test conditions are set by
highlighting the parameter with the and navigation keys, then
altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the and
navigation keys, or by using the data entry keypad.
CALIBRATE See section 4.3. Note: this is not a binning calibration.
Note: If the BINNING soft key is pressed when the binning option is not fitted, the analyzer
will report Unit Not Available (Figure 5-22).

Figure 5-22 Unit Not Available Message

5–22 Advanced Operation

5.9.2 BINNING MODE – Sort

Before sorting components into their respective bins, the bin limits should be set up as
described in section 5.9.1—BINNING MODE – Set. When the limits are correctly set up and
the screen is displaying the desired limits mode, i.e. absolute limits (Abs) or percentage limits
(%), the BIN SORT soft key can be selected from the BINNING MODE – Set display.
BINNING MODE – Sort can be performed in Repetitive mode, Single shot mode or under
GPIB control; if performed in Single shot mode the Count total will be updated in the
background (see section 5.9.3). As each component is inserted into the fixture and the
measurement made, the bin designation for the measured component is displayed together with
the measured value(s). The component may now be placed into the appropriate bin and the next
component placed in the fixture ready for sorting.

Figure 5-23 BINNING MODE – Sort

5.9.2.1 BINNING MODE – Sort Parameters

Parameters which are common to IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—
IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.
Delete last If a component is wrongly sorted (e.g. a bad connection to the
fixture), pressing the Delete last soft key will clear this result from
the total. It is only possible to step back one reading.
This soft key appears after a measurement is triggered. Selecting it
will display Figure 5-24 below.

Figure 5-24 Delete Last Result Message

Selecting the Yes soft key will delete the last result.
 Advanced Operation 5–23

BIN SET Enters BINNING MODE – Set: see section 5.9.1.

BIN COUNT Enters BINNING MODE – Count: see section 5.9.3.

CALIBRATE See section 4.3.

5.9.3 BINNING MODE – Count

BINNING MODE – Count can be entered at any time during component sorting by selecting
the BIN COUNT soft key. Figure 5-25 below shows 9 components sorted into their respective
bins.

Figure 5-25 BINNING MODE – Count

5.9.3.1 BINNING MODE – Count Parameters

Parameters which are common to IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—
IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.
Delete all Deletes all of the bin counts, resetting them to 0, after a warning
message, shown in Figure 5-26 is displayed and is confirmed by
pressing the Yes soft key.

Figure 5-26 Delete Bin Counts Warning

Delete last If a component is wrongly rejected (e.g. a bad connection to the

fixture), pressing the Delete last soft key will clear this result from
the total. It is only possible to step back one reading.
See also Delete last in section 5.9.2.1 above.
5–24 Advanced Operation

BIN SET Enters BINNING MODE – Set: see section 5.9.1.

BIN SORT Enters BINNING MODE – Sort: see section 5.9.2.

CALIBRATE See section 4.3.

5.10 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE

SEQUENCE EDIT MODE allows a sequence of transformer tests, e.g. on each transformer
winding, to be programmed against PASS/FAIL limits for each test. A sequence program can
be loaded, viewed and edited in this mode. Programs may have up to 20 steps with up to 100
programs stored in the non-volatile memory of the analyzer. The actual number of programs
capable of being stored is dependant on the number of steps within each program. Programs can
be selected manually from the front panel or under GPIB control. It is possible to backup and
restore programs, e.g. to/from a computer, via GPIB.
A new program should be generated by first copying a previous one (e.g. in the first instance
the default program), this can be used as a template and modified to suit requirements. The
modified program can then be saved for future use.
The left-hand side of the screen displays the program number and test step list. Test step
selection is made by using the and navigation keys to scroll through the list. Selecting a
test step will display the parameter setup and limits associated with the step which can then be
modified using the navigation keys or numeric keypad. The and navigation keys are used
to select an individual setup parameter or test limit for the selected program test step. Addition,
deletion and moving of steps can be carried out using the soft keys on the right-hand side of the
screen.
To open SEQUENCE EDIT MODE select the Menu control key followed by the
SEQUENCE EDIT soft key. SEQUENCE EDIT MODE will be opened with the last selected
program displayed, regardless of whether it was selected in SEQUENCE EDIT MODE or
SEQUENCE RUN MODE. If no programs have been saved by the user, the program template,
shown in Figure 5-27, will be displayed as program No. 1.
 Advanced Operation 5–25

Figure 5-27 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE: Program Template

5.10.1 Sequence Mode Program Files

5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen

The SEQUENCE FILE screen is used to create, load, label, save and delete sequence
programs which are stored within the 3260B. To display the SEQUENCE FILE screen select
SEQUENCE EDIT MODE from the main menu and then press the File soft key from within
the SEQUENCE EDIT MODE.

5.10.1.2 Loading an Existing Program

Figure 5-28 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Sequence File Screen

1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Use the and navigation keys to scroll through the list and press the Load soft key
when the desired program is highlighted.
5–26 Advanced Operation

3) To return to the SEQUENCE EDIT MODE press the Edit soft key.

5.10.1.3 Creating a New Program

Figure 5-29 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:New Program

1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Select the New soft key.
3) Type a unique program number between 1 and 65535, followed by the keypad Enter key.
A single step test program will be created assigned the number entered.

5.10.1.4 Adding a Program Label

Figure 5-30 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Program Label

 Advanced Operation 5–27

Any test program may have a label assigned with up to 10 characters.

1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Use the and navigation keys to scroll through the program list and highlight the
program to be labelled.
3) Select the Label soft key.
4) Use the navigation keys to select each label character followed by the keypad Enter key for
confirmation. To cancel the last character entered use the Delete soft key.
5) To store the label with the program select the Ok softkey.

5.10.1.5 Saving an Existing Program

It is a good idea to regularly save a program during editing.
1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Select the Save softkey.
3) To overwrite the loaded test file press the Enter key on the keypad. Select the Yes softkey
when prompted to confirm an existing file overwrite or No to abort.

5.10.1.6 Copying an Existing Program

1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Use the and navigation keys to scroll through the list and press the Load soft key
when the desired program is highlighted.
3) Select the Save softkey.
4) Enter a unique program number in the Save As field at the bottom of the screen and
confirm the program number by pressing the Enter key. A label may be added to the
program number. See section Adding a Test Program Label.

5.10.1.7 Deleting a Program

1) Display the SEQUENCE FILE screen. See section 5.10.1.1 Sequence File Screen.
2) Use the and navigation keys to scroll through the program list and highlight the
program to be deleted.
3) Select the Delete softkey.
4) Program deletion is confirmed by pressing the Yes softkey. Abort the deletion process by
pressing the No softkey.
5–28 Advanced Operation

5.10.2 Sequence Mode Test Program

5.10.2.1 Adding a Test Step

Figure 5-31 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Additional Test Step

1) Open the program to be edited. See section 5.10.1.2 Loading an Existing Program.
2) Use the and navigation keys to select the insertion point of the new test step in the
test program. The new step will be added to the program after the highlighted test step.
3) Press the Add soft key to list the available tests
4) Use the and navigation keys to highlight the type of test to be added.
5) Pressing the Ok soft key adds the test step to the program.
Notes:
• New primary winding test steps are always added after the last primary winding test
in the list.
• New secondary winding test steps are always added after the last secondary winding
test.
• New test steps mimic the settings of the step which was highlighted when the new
step was added.
 Advanced Operation 5–29

5.10.2.2 Editing a Test Step

Figure 5-32 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Change Test Parameter

1) Open the program to be edited. See section 5.10.1.2 Loading an Existing Program.
2) Use the and navigation keys to highlight the setup or limit parameter to be changed.
3) Parameter settings are modified using the and navigation keys or numeric keypad.
Some parameters, e.g. frequency, are changed by entering the new value from the data entry
keypad; other parameters, e.g. speed, are changed by repeatedly pressing the keypad Enter
key to scroll through the available settings.

5.10.2.3 Deleting a Test Step

1) Open the program to be edited. See Section 5.10.1.2 Loading an Existing Program.
2) Use the and navigation keys to highlight the test step to be deleted.
3) Press the soft key labelled Delete to remove the highlighted program step from the test
program.
5–30 Advanced Operation

5.10.2.4 Moving a Test Step

Figure 5-33 SEQUENCE EDIT MODE:Moving a Test Step

1) Open the program to be edited. See section 5.10.1.2 Loading an Existing Program.
2) Use the and navigation keys to highlight the test step to be moved.
3) Press the soft key labelled Move and use the Up and Down softkeys to reposition the test
step.
4) Complete the move of the test step by pressing the Ok softkey.

5.11 SEQUENCE RUN MODE.

To open SEQUENCE RUN MODE select the Menu control key followed by the
SEQUENCE RUN soft key. SEQUENCE RUN MODE will be opened with the last selected
program displayed, regardless of whether it was selected in SEQUENCE RUN MODE or
SEQUENCE EDIT MODE.

5.11.1 Selecting a Program.

The required program is selected using the and navigation keys to scroll through the
available programs. Pressing the LIST soft key will display a list of the available programs.

5.11.2 Program Development.

Entering code 50 via the data entry keypad will put the analyzer into single step mode so that as
a program is run, each program step measurement result is displayed, together with the limits,
regardless of PASS/FAIL results. Running a program in this way allows program limits and
settling delays to be adjusted while the program is being developed. Code 50 must be entered
after entering SEQUENCE RUN MODE and selecting a program, but before running the
program. Code 51 or the next power-up resets the analyzer to repetitive mode.
 Advanced Operation 5–31

5.11.3 Running a Program.

Once a program is loaded, see section 5.11.1—Selecting a Program, it is run by pressing the
RUN soft key. A message, such as that shown in Figure 5-34, will be displayed to prompt
connection of the transformer to the measurement leads or fixture. Once this is done, pressing
the Trigger control key will run the program. As the test progresses, messages will be
displayed to prompt connection of secondary windings.

Figure 5-34 SEQUENCE RUN MODE: Connection Prompt

If the transformer passes all test steps, PASS will be reported at the end of the test run. Failures
are reported on a test-by-test basis, with a failure message, such as that shown in Figure 5-35,
reported in each case. When a failure occurs, various options are available.
a) Select the RETRY soft key to rerun the failed test step.
b) Press the Trigger control key to continue the sequence program.
c) Select the NEXT TRANSFORMER soft key to discard any remaining test steps and
allow connection of the next transformer to be tested.
5–32 Advanced Operation

Figure 5-35 SEQUENCE RUN MODE: Failure Message

Selecting the Stop Running PROGRAM No. X soft key will allow a new sequence program to
be selected

5.12 HANDLER MODE

In HANDLER MODE the front panel connections are reconfigured to make the analyzer
compatible with many existing 4-terminal fixtures and scanners (see Figure 5-3 for the
connection protocol for HANDLER MODE). The screen layout is similar to IMPEDANCE
MODE but with the ability to measure turns ratio. The bar graph analogue scale is not available
in HANDLER MODE.

5.12.1 Use of HANDLER MODE

1) Before any measurements are made using HANDLER MODE calibration MUST be
carried, see section 4.6—Handler Calibration for information and methods of handler
calibration.
2) Rdc and AC measurements are performed in the same way as IMPEDANCE MODE.
See section 4.7—Measuring a Component in IMPEDANCE MODE
3) Turns ratio measurements are performed in the same way as TRANSFORMER MODE.
See section 5.7. Turns ratio measurements in HANDLER MODE are made under 2-
terminal operation so the effects of measurement lead impedance and transformer shunt
impedance cannot be avoided.

5.13 TELECOMS MODE

TELECOMS MODE allows line-matching-transformer insertion loss and return loss to be
derived. The user may specify values of source impedance and terminating resistance. A
damped network may also be selected with user-specified values and, if required, a DC
blocking capacitor in the source line. The pictures below show the three configurations with
default component values.
 Advanced Operation 5–33

Figure 5-36 TELECOMS Figure 5-37 TELECOMS Figure 5-38 TELECOMS

MODE: Simple Termination MODE: Direct Damped MODE: Damped Termination
Termination with DC Blocking Capacitor

Two sets of measurement leads are required; see Figure 5-2 for the connection protocol. To
meet the specified accuracy, 4-terminal connection must be used. The general procedure when
using TELECOMS MODE is as follows.
1) Select the Menu control key, followed by the TELECOM soft key.
2) Connect the measurement leads, see Figure 5-2.
3) Select 4-terminal measurement.
4) From TELECOMS MODE select the CALIBRATE soft key.
5) Refer to section 4.3 and perform the following trims.
a) O/C Trim (Pri)
b) S/C Trim (Pri)
c) O/C Trim (Pri–Sec)
d) S/C Trim (Sec)
6) Select the TELECOM soft key to return to TELECOMS MODE.
7) Select the terminating options required..
8) Change the setup parameters as required, i.e. drive level, frequency and terminating
component values, being careful not to exceed the limitations of the transformer.
9) Connect Primary and Secondary leads to the appropriate transformer windings.
10) Press the Start soft key to initiate the test. The measured values of insertion loss (I.L.) and
return loss (R.L.) will be displayed on the screen.

5.13.1 Example
This example will take the user through the process of measuring the insertion loss and return
loss of a line matching transformer. The settings used are examples only and the user may
substitute other settings, subject to the limitations of the component to be measured. The
analyzer should be powered up with the test leads or fixture connected to the front panel BNC
connectors according to the connection protocol for transformer/telecom mode (see Figure 5-2).
1) Press the front panel Menu control key. The MAIN MENU will be displayed.
2) Press the TELECOM soft key. TELECOMS MODE will be displayed.
5–34 Advanced Operation

3) Press the CALIBRATE soft key and perform the trims listed in section 5.13 paragraph 5).
When the trims are complete, press the TELECOM soft key to return to TELECOMS
MODE.
4) Using the Simple/Damped soft key, select Damped termination.
5) Using the Direct/Blocked soft key, select Blocked termination.
6) Using the navigation keys, highlight and set each of the following parameters in turn. Use
the and navigation keys to highlight a parameter and the data entry keypad or and
navigation keys to alter the highlighted parameter setting. Settings may be altered one
step at a time, or continuously by holding the navigation key down.
-10.0dBm (default value)
4.0000kHz
Z0 : 600.0 Ω (default value)
Rt : 600.0 Ω (default value)
Ct : 4.700nF (default value)
Rd : 600.0 Ω (default value)
Cd : 4.700nF (default value)
Cb : 1.000MF (default value)
7) Connect the transformer to the test leads or fixture.
8) Press the Start soft key. The measured values of insertion loss (I.L.) and return loss (R.L.)
will be displayed on the screen.

Figure 5-39 Example of Measuring Insertion Loss and Return Loss in TELECOMS MODE

5.13.2 TELECOMS MODE Parameters

The following TELECOMS MODE parameters are selectable with the soft keys to the right of
the display.
Start When the test conditions have been set and the transformer
connected to the test leads or fixture, pressing the Start soft key
 Advanced Operation 5–35

performs a test of Insertion Loss (I.L.) and Return Loss (R.L.).

Simple/Damped Toggles between Simple termination, shown in Figure 5-36, and a

Damped termination network, shown in Figure 5-37. See also
Direct/Blocked below.

Direct/Blocked This soft key becomes available when Damped termination is

selected (see Simple/Damped above). Direct termination is
shown in Figure 5-37. Blocked termination is shown in Figure
5-38 and features a DC blocking capacitor in the transformer
signal source.

CALIBRATE See section 4.3.

The following TELECOMS MODE parameters are those displayed in the bottom left-hand-
corner of the screen, shown in Figure 5-39.
Drive Level Set by highlighting the parameter with the and navigation
keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the
and navigation keys, or by using the data entry keypad. The
range is:
–28.0dBm to 16.0dBm.

Measurement Frequency Set by highlighting the parameter with the and navigation
keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the
and navigation keys, or by finer increments using the data entry
keypad. The range is:
100Hz to 20kHz
Fine or coarse frequency steps are available. Coarse steps vary in
increments of between 20% and 33%; fine steps vary in
increments of 1% or less. Set fine or coarse steps from the
SETTINGS page—see section 5.18, or use code 10 (fine steps) or
code 11 (coarse steps)—see section 4.2.6.1

Z0 The signal source impedance. The range is:

50.00Ω to 2.000kΩ default = 600.0Ω

Rt The network terminating resistor. The range is:

50.00Ω to 2.000kΩ default = 600.0Ω

Ct The network terminating capacitor. Only available when Damped

termination is selected. The range is:
0.000F to 9.999TF default = 4.700nF
5–36 Advanced Operation

Rd The network source resistance. Only available when Damped

termination is selected. The range is:
0.000Ω to 9.999TΩ default = 600.0Ω

Cd The network source capacitance. Only available when Damped

termination is selected. The range is:
0.000F to 9.999TF default = 4.700nF

Cb The signal source DC blocking capacitor. Only available when

Damped termination is selected and Direct/Blocked is set to
Blocked. The range is:
0.000F to 9.999TF default = 1.000MF

5.14 MULTI FREQ MODE

This mode allows measurement of components at a number of user-defined frequencies. Limits
can be turned off or set in absolute or percentage terms and can be different for each defined
frequency. When limits are set in percentage terms, a nominal component value must also be
entered. MULTI FREQ mode is divided into two areas: MULTI FREQ – Set and MULTI
FREQ – Run.

5.14.1 MULTI FREQ – Set

Figure 5-40 MULTI FREQ – Set Display With No Parameters Set up

Up to eight frequencies can be defined by highlighting the frequency, then entering the
frequency with the data entry keypad. The and navigation keys scroll through each
frequency in turn. Also available, depending upon the setting of the Off Abs % soft key, are
High, Low and Minor term limits and a Nominal parameter. The High, Low, Minor and
 Advanced Operation 5–37

Nominal settings are accessed by pressing either of the or navigation keys when one of the
frequency settings is highlighted. The Nominal value is common to all frequencies but the
High, Low and Minor term limits may be different for each frequency set.
Any limit set to zero is ignored when the multi-frequency test is run. Therefore either the major
or minor term test may be omitted by setting the appropriate limits to zero.

5.14.1.1 Example
This example will illustrate the procedure for setting MULTI FREQ parameters using
different limits for each set frequency. The sequence used in this example is not the only way to
set the parameters but is intended to familiarize the user with this mode of operation. For this
illustration, percentage limits will be used.
1) Enter MULTI FREQ – Set mode by pressing the MULTI FREQ soft key from the MAIN
MENU. If MULTI FREQ – Run mode is displayed, press the SET soft key. If no
parameters have previously been set, the display will look like Figure 5-40 above.
2) If the test leads or fixture have been changed since the last time the analyzer was used,
press the CALIBRATE soft key and perform the following trims with reference to sections
4.3 and 4.4.1. When finished, press the MULTI FREQ soft key to return to MULTI
FREQ – Set mode.
O/C Trim (Pri)
S/C Trim (Pri)
HF Lead Compensation
3) Use the Off Abs % soft key to highlight %. This sets the display ready to accept
percentage limits.
4) Press the IMPEDANCE soft key. This will return the instrument to IMPEDANCE
MODE where the appropriate measurement parameters must be set prior to running a
MULTI FREQ test. Enter the parameters required for the test. For this example they are
set to:
AC Meas
L
Q
Parallel
1.00Vac
1.0000kHz—this will be the first set frequency in MULTI FREQ – Set mode
DC Bias 0.000 A OFF
NORM
Range Auto
Speed Med
ALC off
Note: Where a component is to be measured over a wide frequency range, setting Range to
Auto is recommended.
When the measurement parameters have been set, press the RETURN soft key to return the
instrument to MULTI FREQ – Set mode.
5–38 Advanced Operation

5) Highlight the first frequency, shown highlighted in Figure 5-40 (the and navigation
keys scroll through each frequency in turn) and enter the required frequency with the data
entry keypad.
6) Highlight and enter the next frequency. Continue to highlight and enter up to eight
frequencies in this way. This example will enter frequencies of 1kHz, 3kHz, 10kHz, 30kHz,
100kHz, 300kHz and 1MHz.
7) With the first (top) frequency highlighted, press either of the or navigation keys until
the Nominal parameter is highlighted (if using absolute limits there is no nominal
parameter). Enter the Nominal value with the data entry keypad; for this example the
nominal will be set to 100µH.
8) Still using the and navigation keys, highlight the High limit then enter the required
limit with the data entry keypad. For this example all the limits will be set to ±10%, though
they could be set to different values for each frequency. Highlight the Low limit and enter
the required limit. Pressing the Enter key twice will echo the High limit but with the
opposite sign.
9) Highlight the Minor term with the and navigation keys and enter the required value.
Note that the Minor term limit is either an upper or lower limit depending on what the
parameter is (e.g. <D, >Q). For this example the Q term will be set to >2 at 1kHz, i.e.
anything more than or equal to 2 will pass the minor term parameter and anything below 2
will fail.
10) Press the navigation key: the symbol will move down and point to the second
frequency (3kHz in this example). Note that the limits showing at the bottom of the screen
change as each frequency is selected in turn. Using the and navigation keys highlight
and set the High, Low, and Minor limits for the second frequency. Press the navigation
key again and the symbol will point to the third frequency and the limits for the third
frequency can be set. Continue in this way until the limits have been set for each frequency.
The limits set in this example are as follows:

Frequency High Limit Low Limit Minor Term

(L) (L) Limit (Q)
1kHz 10% -10% >2
3kHz 10% -10% >5
10kHz 10% -10% >20
30kHz 10% -10% >50
100kHz 10% -10% >50
300kHz 10% -10% >50
1MHz 10% -10% >50

These limits can be read back by selecting each frequency in turn.

Figure 5-41 shows the display when set to 30kHz in the example above.
 Advanced Operation 5–39

Figure 5-41 MULTI FREQ – Set Display Example

5.14.1.2 MULTI FREQ – Set Parameters

Parameters which are common to IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—
IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.
Delete The Delete soft key will delete the frequency which the symbol
is pointing to. Before deleting the frequency a message, shown in
Figure 5-42, will be displayed and must be acknowledged with
either the Yes or No soft key.

Figure 5-42 Delete Frequency Message

Sort If the frequencies entered were not in sequence, pressing the Sort
soft key will sort them into ascending order. Pressing Sort again
toggles the frequency sequence, i.e. the top frequency becomes the
bottom frequency and vice versa. The limits will stay with the
frequency they relate to.
5–40 Advanced Operation

Off Abs % Switches between no limits, absolute limits or percentage limits.

When set to Off, no nominal value or limits are displayed, but any
previously selected values will be retained in memory.
When Abs is selected, High, Low and Minor term limits are
displayed.
when % is selected the Nominal value together with High, Low
and Minor term limits are displayed.
The nominal and limits are set as described in the example above.
Nominal and limit values for MULTI FREQ – Set mode are
independent of those set in any other mode.

IMPEDANCE Enters IMPEDANCE MODE so that measurement parameters

may be set up or changed. When the correct measurement
parameters are set, the RETURN soft key returns the instrument to
MULTI FREQ – Set mode.

RUN Enters MULTI FREQ – Run mode: see section 5.14.2.

5.14.2 MULTI FREQ – Run

Before a multi-frequency test can be run it must be set up as described in section 5.14.1.
Pressing the RUN soft key from MULTI FREQ – Set mode enters MULTI FREQ – Run
mode. When first entering this mode the screen will look similar to Figure 5-43 which shows
MULTI FREQ – Run mode entered after setting MULTI FREQ – Set mode according to the
example in section 5.14.1.1.

Figure 5-43 Initial MULTI FREQ – Run Display (from example in section 5.14.1.1)

When the Start soft key or the Trigger key is pressed, the analyzer will measure the
component at the frequencies and measurement parameters previously set and the measurement
 Advanced Operation 5–41

values will be displayed. If either Abs or % was selected in MULTI FREQ – Set mode, the
analyzer will report PASS, FAIL, HI or LO according to the table below. Figure 5-44 shows
the results of running the multi-frequency test set up in section 5.14.1.1.

PASS Major and minor terms are within the limits set.
FAIL Major and minor terms are outside of the limits set.
HI (X), e.g. HI D, HI C The parameter indicated is above the upper limit.
LO (X), e.g. LO L, LO Q The parameter indicated is below the lower limit.

Figure 5-44 MULTI FREQ – Run

When the bin handler option is fitted, the bin handler Pass/Fail output corresponds to the
, , and results. The Pass/Fail output goes low only when a
measurement has passed all set limits, see section 4.1.11.5 for the bin handler interface pin
assignment.

5.15 GRAPH MODE

GRAPH MODE allows both major and minor term component or circuit characteristics to be
viewed in graphical form (linear or logarithmic) across a user-defined frequency range. Only
one term can be viewed at a time but it is possible to rapidly toggle between the major and
minor term views. The major term graph may be in absolute units, or as a percentage from a
nominal value. The vertical axes for both the major and minor term may be pre-defined by the
user. After plotting the graph, the FIT function may be used to autoscale either vertical axis for
the best available resolution. Other functions within GRAPH MODE can be used to find
resonance and to identify the highest peak and lowest trough across the frequency range. A
marker is displayed with the graph and can move along the graph outline and give x and y
coordinate readouts. Results can be printed to an Epson-compatible printer if required, after
entering Code 30 from the MAIN MENU.
When first entering GRAPH MODE from the MAIN MENU, the GRAPH MODE – Set
screen is displayed (Figure 5-45) which defines the parameters necessary to plot the graph.
5–42 Advanced Operation

Figure 5-45 GRAPH MODE – Set

Figure 5-45 shows GRAPH MODE set up to plot a graph of inductance against frequency on a
linear scale between 100kHz and 600kHz with the limits set in absolute terms.

5.15.1 GRAPH MODE – Set Parameters

Parameters which are common to IMPEDANCE MODE are described in section 4.7.2—
IMPEDANCE MODE Parameters.
Lin(unit) Log(unit) Toggles between Lin(unit) and Log(unit) to set either linear or
logarithmic horizontal scale, where unit is the unit of the Sweep
parameter (see Sweep, below).

Lin(Z) Log(Z) This soft key is displayed only when Log(unit) is selected (above)
and when Mode is set to Impedance (Z+θ). It allows selection of
Lin or Log vertical scale, allowing log/log graphs to be plotted.
Note that negative or zero scale limits cannot be plotted on a log
scale. Both limits must be set to positive values before pressing
Start, or a warning message will be displayed.

Sweep The Start and Stop settings for the graph, which are set by
highlighting each in turn with the and navigation keys, then
entering the value with the data entry keypad. When Sweep is
highlighted the and navigation keys are used to set the
Sweep parameter to Frequency, Bias, Bias (Boost) or Drive
Level.
 Advanced Operation 5–43

Step Size The Step Size is the number of LCD display pixels used for a
single point along the graph. The higher the number selected, the
coarser the graph but the more quickly it is plotted. Set by
highlighting Step Size with the and navigation keys, then
select from 1 2 4 8 with the and navigation keys.

Mode When the Mode parameter is highlighted with the and

navigation keys, it may be toggled between Impedance… mode or
Transformer… mode parameters (see Major/Minor Term
Select, below) with the and navigation keys. Once this
selection is made, the expected Hi and Lo limits for the y axis of
the graph may be highlighted with the and navigation keys
and the values entered with the data entry keypad. If percentage
limits are selected, a Nominal value must also be entered: no units
are necessary, this will always match the major term selection.

Abs % This soft key toggles between Abs and % (major term only).
When Abs is selected, absolute Hi and Lo limits (i.e. units of the
measured parameter) are displayed. When % is selected, a
Nominal value together with Hi and Lo percentage limits is
displayed.
The limits and nominal value (if applicable) must be set using the
and navigation keys to highlight each parameter and the data
entry keypad to set each value.
Note: The Abs % soft key is not available when the vertical scale
is logarithmic.

Major/Minor This soft key toggles between either of the measurement terms
Term Select selected in IMPEDANCE MODE or TRANSFORMER MODE
depending on whether the Mode parameter is set to Impedance…
or Transformer…. The graph will be plotted according to
whichever of these terms is highlighted.
5–44 Advanced Operation

Start When all parameters have been set up, pressing the Start soft key
will plot the graph.
As the graph is being plotted, a progress marker at the bottom of
the screen shows how complete the graph is and the speed of the
marker gives an indication of how long the graph will take to plot.
If the graph is progressing too slowly, perhaps because too small a
Step Size has been selected, it can be aborted by pressing and
holding the Abort key.
Notes:
1) If the range is manually selected and the component
characteristics take the graph outside the boundaries of the
selected range, that portion of the graph will not be plotted.
2) If incorrect y axis settings are selected, no graph will be seen
even though the progress marker will indicate that a graph is
being plotted: the graph will actually be ‘plotted’ outside of
the display area. The display can be corrected by using the
FIT autoscale function, or by pressing the RETURN soft key
and selecting more appropriate limits.
3) An error message shown at the top of the screen indicates that
the error occurred somewhere on the sweep.
4) The graph is plotted using the full measurement resolution.

View When the graph has been plotted and GRAPH MODE – Set has
been reselected with the RETURN soft key, View can be used to
redisplay the last graph plotted by the analyzer.

IMPEDANCE Enters IMPEDANCE MODE or TRANSFORMER MODE

according to the Mode selected (see Mode, above) so that
or
measurement parameters may be set up or changed. When the
TRANSFORMER correct measurement parameters are set, the RETURN soft key
returns the instrument to GRAPH MODE – Set.

5.15.2 Parameters Available when the Graph is Displayed

FUNCTION Pressing FUNCTION temporarily crops the graph to display other
soft keys available. These are shown indented below:

VIEW Pressing VIEW hides the available soft keys and displays the
whole graph.

FIT The FIT soft key replots the graph, auto scaling the vertical axis
for the best available resolution. This may be done separately for
both major and minor terms.
 Advanced Operation 5–45

TOGGLE When a graph is plotted on the major or minor term, the other term
is automatically stored in the background and the TOGGLE soft
key can be used to toggle between the two graphical displays.

RESONANCE Enters RESONANCE MODE. See section 5.16.

PEAK Aligns the marker with the highest peak in the set frequency range.

DIP Aligns the marker with the lowest trough in the set frequency
range.

NOM>MK Replots the graph with the marker position set as the component
nominal value. To aid positioning of the marker, its position in
both axes is shown at the bottom of the screen. It is moved with
the and navigation keys. When GRAPH MODE – Set is re-
entered with the RETURN soft key, the Nominal and Hi/Lo
limits will reflect the replotted graph.

PRINT Prints the graph on an Epson-compatible printer after entering

Code 30 from the MAIN MENU.

RETURN Returns the analyzer to GRAPH MODE – Set.

Note
If the DUT exhibits high Q resonances, the graph function may miss the peak or trough due to
quantized frequency steps. For accurate values at resonance, use the RESONANCE function.

5.15.3 Example
This example will illustrate the procedure for using GRAPH MODE and is intended to
familiarize the user with this mode of operation. For this example a linear scale will be used to
plot inductance over the frequency range of 100kHz to 600kHz.
1) Enter GRAPH MODE – Set by pressing the GRAPH soft key from the MAIN MENU.
2) Highlight the Sweep parameter with the or navigation key, then using the and
navigation keys set it to Frequency.
3) Highlight the Start frequency with the or navigation key and enter the required
frequency with the data entry keypad. For this example 100kHz will be entered.
4) Highlight the Stop frequency with the or navigation key and enter the required
frequency with the data entry keypad. For this example 600kHz will be entered.
5) Highlight Step Size with the or navigation key, then use the and navigation
keys to select 1 2 4 or 8. For this example 2 is selected.
6) Highlight the Mode parameter with the or navigation key, then using the and
navigation keys set it to Impedance….
5–46 Advanced Operation

7) Press the IMPEDANCE soft key. This will display IMPEDANCE MODE where the
appropriate parameters must be set prior to plotting the graph. Enter the parameters
required for the test. For this example they are set to:
AC Meas
L
R
1.00Vac
1.0000kHz—this setting will be overridden when the graph is plotted
DC Bias 0.000 A OFF NORM
Range Auto
Speed Med
ALC off
When the measurement parameters have been set, press the RETURN soft key to return the
instrument to GRAPH MODE– Set.
8) Highlight the L and R Hi and Lo limits with the or navigation key, then set each in
turn with the data entry keypad. For this example they will be set to:
L Hi: 100.00m
Lo: -100.00m
R Hi : 20.000Ω
Lo : 1.000Ω
9) Use the Lin(Hz) Log(Hz) soft key to highlight Lin(Hz).
10) Use the Abs % soft key to highlight Abs.
The screen should now look like Figure 5-45.
11) If necessary, press the CALIBRATE soft key and perform the appropriate trims for the
Mode selected. See section 4.3 for details of the trim procedure.
12) Connect the component to the test leads or fixture.
13) Press the Start soft key. A graph will be plotted showing the component characteristics
using the measurement parameters and frequency range set (Figure 5-46).
 Advanced Operation 5–47

Figure 5-46 Graph Plotted From Example

14) By stepping the marker along the graph with the and navigation keys, the measurement
result and frequency can be seen at the marker position in the bottom-left corner of the
screen.
15) Pressing the FUNCTION soft key will display the other soft key functions available. These
are described in section 5.15.2—Parameters Available when the Graph is Displayed

5.16 RESONANCE MODE

RESONANCE MODE identifies and analyses either series or parallel resonances in the
component under test. These are typically caused by the self-inductance of capacitors or the
self-capacitance of inductors respectively. For analysis purposes, the equivalent circuits shown
below are assumed.

Figure 5-47 Series Equivalent Circuit Figure 5-48 Parallel Equivalent Circuit

At the selected resonant frequency, the capacitive and inductive reactances are equal and
opposite, giving a measured impedance that is purely resistive. By making measurements above
and below this frequency, the exact resonant characteristics are found by interpolation. For
resonances with reasonably high Q factors, accurate results are returned for the resonant
frequency (fo), self inductance (Ls) or self capacitance (Cp). The Q value and effective
resistance at resonance (Zo) are also indicated.
5–48 Advanced Operation

For simple components, where the above models are valid, the series or parallel frequency
obtained will also correspond to the minimum or maximum impedance point. The results may
not be valid for more complex components, especially those exhibiting more than one
resonance.
Before initiating a resonance search, enter values for the Start and Stop frequencies
corresponding to the range in which resonance is expected to occur. The search process will
complete more quickly if close limits are entered. The search will be performed at the AC test
level specified in IMPEDANCE MODE, but other test parameters will be selected
automatically and need not be specified.
Start the search by pressing the Find Series or Find Parallel soft key. If a resonance is found,
the results will appear after a few seconds, as shown in Figure 5-50. With the Find Series or
Find Parallel label highlighted, a further search may be initiated by pressing the Trigger key.
Alternatively, press the soft key again.
If the resonance lies outside the frequency range of the analyzer, it is possible to use an
extrapolated search, but the results will be at a reduced accuracy. If no resonance is detected
within the specified frequency limits, Figure 5-51 will be displayed and must be acknowledged
with either the Yes or No soft key. Answering Yes will cause the analyzer to look for a
resonance at frequencies up to 2:1 beyond the limits. For best accuracy, always adjust the limits
and repeat if this is possible. Accuracy of extrapolated results is undefined, as it is not possible
to verify the validity of the circuit model. If no resonance is detected, or if the No soft key was
pressed, the analyzer will report Resonance not found.

Figure 5-49 RESONANCE MODE Figure 5-50 RESONANCE MODE Results

Figure 5-50 shows the result of a series resonant frequency search on a 10µF capacitor with the
bandwidth search limits set to 100Hz and 1MHz.

Figure 5-51 Resonance Not Found Message

 Advanced Operation 5–49

5.17 DEMAG MODE

DEMAG MODE is used for demagnetizing coils. Enter values for Frequency and Start
Level, then press the Start soft key. First the coil is saturated by applying the set Frequency at
the Start Level. The coil is then demagnetized by slowly reducing the level to zero.

Figure 5-52 DEMAG MODE

5.17.1 DEMAG MODE Parameters

Frequency Set by highlighting the parameter with the and navigation
keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the
and navigation keys, or by finer increments using the data entry
keypad. The range is:
20Hz to 3MHz

Start Level Set by highlighting the parameter with the and navigation
keys, then altering the setting in pre-determined steps with the
and navigation keys, or by using the data entry keypad. The
range is:
1mV to 10V
At frequencies above 300kHz the maximum start level is
restricted.

5.18 The SETTINGS Page

The SETTINGS page, shown in Figure 5-53, is displayed by pressing the SETTINGS soft key
from the MAIN MENU. indicates that an option is fitted.
5–50 Advanced Operation

Figure 5-53 The SETTINGS Page

There are eight parameters which may be altered from within the settings page: GPIB address,
Freq steps, Connection, Measurement, Test Conditions, Ratio Correction,
Demagnetisation, Low Magnetisation.

5.18.1 The SETTINGS Page Parameters

GPIB Address The analyzer’s default GPIB address is 6. This may be changed by
highlighting the GPIB address parameter with the and
navigation keys, then altering the address with the or
navigation keys or the data entry keypad. Allowable addresses are
0 to 30 inclusive.

Freq Steps This sets the frequency steps used when the measurement
frequency is altered using the navigation keys. Two options are
available: Coarse or Fine. Set by highlighting the Freq steps
parameter with the and navigation keys, then using the or
navigation keys to toggle between the two choices. With Coarse
steps selected, the frequency steps are 33% or less; with Fine steps
selected, the frequency steps are 1% or less.
Even with Coarse frequency steps selected, the data entry keypad
can be used to set the measurement frequency with the maximum
possible resolution and accuracy.
 Advanced Operation 5–51

Connection Toggles the analyzer between 2- and 4-terminal operation by

highlighting the Connection parameter with the and
navigation keys, then using the or navigation keys to toggle
between the two choices.
Alternatively, the 2/4 Term control key can be used to switch
between 2- and 4-terminal operation (see section 4.2.5).
Note:
1) When 2-terminal measurement is selected the 2/4 term control
key indicator will light and the display will show 2-TERM
…MODE at the top of the screen.
2) The leads will require retrimming when switching from 4- to
2-terminal measurement or vice versa.

Measurement Toggles the analyzer between Single shot mode and Repetitive
mode operation. Set by highlighting the Measurement parameter
with the and navigation keys, then using the or
navigation keys to toggle between the two choices.
Alternatively, the Sngl/Rep control key can be used to select either
single shot or repetitive mode (see section 4.2.5).

Test Conditions Toggles the analyzer between Global and Non-global test
conditions. With Global set, any parameter, e.g. drive level,
frequency, set in one mode of operation, is automatically reflected
in all other modes. For example if the IMPEDANCE MODE
frequency is set to 300Hz, the TRANSFORMER MODE
frequency will automatically be changed to 300Hz too. With Non-
global set, the parameters in each mode may be set independently
of the parameters in all other modes. Set by highlighting the Test
Conditions parameter with the and navigation keys, then
using the or navigation keys to toggle between the two
choices.

Ratio Correction Sets the ratio correction to Off, Normal transformer or Auto
transformer during transformer ratio measurements. Set by
highlighting the Ratio Correction parameter with the and
navigation keys, then using the or navigation keys to select the
setting required.
When measuring the turns ratio of transformers with a floating
secondary winding, the ratio correction should be set to Normal
transformer or Off. If the primary impedance is low, it is highly
recommended to turn ratio correction Off. When measuring the
turns ratio of auto transformers (transformers with a common
connection between one end of the primary and secondary
windings) the ratio correction should be set to Auto transformer.
5–52 Advanced Operation

Demagnetisation This is a global setting. With Demagnetisation set On,

components measured using AC primary settings, i.e. L, Q, C, D,
Z, R, in IMPEDANCE MODE and L+Q (Pri) in
TRANSFORMER MODE, will be demagnetized, using the
settings in DEMAG MODE, before the component measurement
is performed. The demagnetization function will only occur when
measurements are performed in single-shot mode. When the
analyzer is set to make repetitive measurements, the
Demagnetisation function is disabled.

Low Magnetisation Sometimes, when connecting a component to the measurement

terminals, the connection coincides with a signal peak from the
analyzer which may saturate the component. This situation can be
avoided by setting Low Magnetisation On. This global setting
shorts the analyzer’s terminals while the component is connected
to the measurement leads/fixture. When a single-shot measurement
is performed, by pressing the Trigger key, the short is removed
and the measurement made. When the measurement has been
made, the short is reapplied to the analyzer terminals, allowing
removal of the component without the risk of saturation at this
point. When the analyzer is set to make repetitive measurements,
the Low Magnetisation function is disabled

5.19 The CAL STATUS Page

The CAL STATUS page, shown in Figure 5-54, is displayed by pressing the CAL STATUS
soft key from the MAIN MENU.
In the Calibration status area, indicates that the named calibration has been performed and is
valid. indicates that the named calibration has not been performed or is not valid.
The Trim status area shows the trims that have been performed and which conditions were
used for trimming. The Trim column lists the possible trims. The Freq column displays No
trim, Spot trim or All freq to show the kind of trim performed. The Spot column shows None
of no trim has been performed. If a spot trim is performed, the Spot column shows the
frequency the spot trim was performed at. If the trim was performed with the All freq setting,
the Spot column shown the frequency set in IMPEDANCE MODE when the trim was
performed; the analyzer trims at this frequency, in addition to the normal trim frequencies,
when an All freq trim is performed. The Connect column shows 4-term or 2-term, depending
on whether the trim was performed in 2- or 4-terminal mode.
Advanced Operation 5–53

Figure 5-54 The CAL STATUS Page

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–1

6. GENERAL PURPOSE INTERFACE BUS (GPIB)

6.1 GPIB Control

6.1.1 Introduction
The GPIB is a parallel port designed to be used for communication between instruments
(listeners) and control devices (talkers) such as PCs fitted with a suitable interface card. The
interface protocol is defined by the IEEE488.1 standard. Some additional generic capabilities of
the listeners and talkers are defined by IEEE488.2. The SCPI standard defines the highest level
of command structure including a number of standard commands for all instruments.

6.1.2 Interface Specification

The IEEE 488.1 bus standard and the IEEE 488.2 code standard are fully supported. The
command set has also been designed to the SCPI standard.

The IEEE 488.1 functions supported

SH1 Full source handshake

AH1 Full acceptor handshake

T6 Basic talker, serial poll, no talk only, untalk if MLA

TE0 No talker with secondary addressing

L4 Basic listener, no listen only, unlisten if MTA

LE0 No listener with secondary addressing

SR1 Full service request

DC1 Full device clear

RL1 Full remote/local compatibility

PP0 No parallel poll

DT1 Full device trigger compatibility

C0 No controller
6–2 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

6.1.3 Changing GPIB Address

Each instrument on the GPIB requires a unique address, this can be set to any address in the
range 0 to 30.
The default address is 6. This may be changed from the SETTINGS page, as follows:
1) From the MAIN MENU select SETTINGS.
2) Highlight the settings page GPIB address parameter with the and navigation keys.
3) Alter the address with the or navigation keys or the data entry keypad.
The GPIB address is stored in non-volatile memory.

6.1.4 Message Syntax

A GPIB message is made up of one or more commands. Commands can be separated into two
groups, common commands and subsystem commands. The available common commands
are defined by IEEE488.2 and are primarily concerned with the instrument’s GPIB
configuration, e.g. reading error registers and identifying the instrument. The subsystem
commands are the higher level commands that follow the SCPI guidelines and are concerned
with setting up the instrument functions, e.g. changing the frequency and drive level.

6.1.4.1 Message structure

Messages are sent to the instrument as ASCII character strings. The structure of these strings
can be seen in Figure 6-1. When interpreting the strings the instrument is not case-sensitive.

Figure 6-1 GPIB Message Structure

The path command prefix allows access to commands in the SCPI command tree. Using this
approach greatly simplifies GPIB programming by allowing related commands to be grouped
together. The next part of the string is the command itself which has the structure shown in
Figure 6-2. Multiple commands can be sent in one message by separating them with a
semicolon (maximum length 256 bytes). The terminator indicates the end of the command
string to the instrument: this can be the sending of the line-feed character (ASCII 0Ah) and/or
the assertion of the EOI handshake line on the GPIB bus.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–3

Figure 6-2 GPIB Command Structure

Each instrument command begins with a mnemonic that describes the required action, e.g.
FREQ for changing the frequency.
If the command requires a parameter, then the next character should be a white space character
(ASCII 20h), although any character in the range 00h-20h can be used with the exception of
line-feed (ASCII 0Ah).
The parameter itself can take one of three forms depending on the command:
1) Discrete data
This includes words like ON, OFF and ABS.
2) Real Number
A floating point number that can be in engineering format or a number with a multiplier
suffix K (kilo-), M (mega-) or G (giga-).
For example:
FREQ 1000.0
FREQ 1E+3
FREQ 0.1E4
FREQ 1k
are all valid ways of setting a frequency of 1kHz.
3) Integer
A single integer number. Often used to indicate a Boolean state.
For example:
RANGE 1
will select range 1.
If invalid data is supplied then a command error will be generated. If data is supplied but the
instrument is not able to apply the setting, an execution error will be generated. If the
instrument is unable to exactly comply with the command and can only apply the nearest
available, a device specific error is generated. Details of these error codes can be found in
Figure 6-6.

6.1.4.2 Hierarchical Commands

As described in the previous section, SCPI uses a command tree to simplify device
programming. This structure is similar to the directory structure used on most computers. To
6–4 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

access a specific command in a specific mode the user must supply the ‘path’ to reach that
particular command within the tree.
When the unit is powered up the initial path is ‘root’ which is the top level from which all paths
must start.
Note that common commands (which by convention always start with the ‘*’ character) are not
part of the tree and can be accessed regardless of the current path.
So to select the impedance measurement function in deviation mode, the path must describe the
command tree as below:

The ‘:’ character is used as the path separator so the command string will be:

:DEV:FUNC:Z

Note that the string starts with ‘:’. This tells the instrument to start from the ‘root’ path.
Whenever a terminator is reached (line-feed and/or EOI) the path is reset to the root path, so
each new GPIB command string must state the full path in order to work correctly, for example:
To set a measurement frequency of 1kHz at a level of 1.0V, the following string can be used:

:IMP:FREQ 1k;LEV 1.0V <line-feed>

Or it can be expressed as two separate commands:

:IMP:FREQ 1k <line-feed>
:IMP:LEV 1.0 <line-feed>

However, the following will not work as the second command will be run from the ‘root’ path,
not the measurement path which was required:

:IMP:FREQ 1k <line-feed>
LEV 1.0 <line-feed>
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–5

Summary: The following are the rules for negotiating the command hierarchy
• On power-up or reset, the current path is set to the root.
• Message terminator, line-feed (ASCII 0Ah) or EOI, sets the current path to the root.
• When a colon is the first character of a command, it specifies that the next command
mnemonic is a root level command.
• When a colon is placed between two path mnemonics, the current path is moved down one
level in the command tree if the path name is valid.
• A semicolon separates two commands in the same message without changing the current
path.
• If a command requires more than one parameter, the separate adjacent parameters must be
specified using a comma. Commas do not affect the current path.
• Common commands, such as *RST, *RCL, are not part of the tree. An instrument interprets
them in the same way, regardless of the current path setting.

Other syntax rules

• Commands will be executed in the order in which they appear in the string.
• A command string can contain any number of ‘query commands’: the response will contain
the replies to each query separated by a semicolon.
• Only commands available in the selected mode will be accepted. Otherwise, an Execution
Error will be generated. For example, AC frequency cannot be set if Rdc type of test is
selected
• Either full or abbreviated forms of the device specific commands will be accepted. The
abbreviated form is indicated by upper case letters in section 6.2.
• Device specific commands have the same effect as pressing the equivalent front panel key
and can be expected to interact with any other instrument settings in the same way.

6.1.5 Data Output

6.1.5.1 Output Syntax

For each query which generates an output response, a Response Message Unit (RMU), will be
generated. This consists of a string of numbers or alphanumeric characters; if more than one
RMU is generated they will be delimited with a semicolon. The terminator, line-feed and EOI
asserted indicates the end of data output. All characters will be upper case.

Figure 6-3 GPIB Data Output

6–6 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Figure 6-4 GPIB RMU Structure

6.1.5.2 Multiple Items

Some commands will generate an RMU containing more than one item of data (e.g. TRIG will
generate a first and second result). In this case, each item of response data will be separated by
a comma. Note that the maximum number of characters that can be output is 256, any data
beyond this will be lost.
If the command string contained multiple queries then the response will contain multiple
RMUs, each of which will be separated by a semicolon.

6.1.5.3 Numeric Format

The format of numeric results will correspond to that used for the instrument display, with the
engineering multiplier (if any) replaced by an equivalent 10’s exponent. If the FAST-GPIB
mode is being used then numbers will be output in a raw engineering format.

6.1.6 Status Reporting

6.1.6.1 Status byte

The status byte is used to summarize information from the other status groups. It is shown in
Figure 6-5, which conforms to IEEE 488.2 and SCPI. The status byte can be read by the query
command *STB? or by performing a serial poll on the instrument (these two are identical
although the point at which the RQS bit can be cleared is slightly different).

BIT Meaning True = ‘1’

7 Operation Status Event Register summary bit. This bit is true when
measurement or trimming etc., is in progress

6 RQS – ReQuest for Service. When the bit in the Service Request Enable
mask is set with the corresponding bit in the status register true, this will
trigger a service request to the controller.

MSS – Master Summary Status bit. The version of the request for service bit
which appears in the Status Byte.

5 ESB – Event Summary Bit. When unmasked by the ESE register, this bit will
be set whenever the corresponding bit or bits are set in the Event Status
Register.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–7

BIT Meaning True = ‘1’

4 MAV – Message available. The output queue has data to be read.

3 A summary bit from Questionable Data. This bit is not used, so is always 0.

2 This is a summary bit of error and instrument status messages. True if any
new status information is available.

1 Always 0.

0 Always 0.

Figure 6-5 Status Byte Register

6.1.6.2 Service Request Enable Register

The service request enable register (SRE) is a mask determining the conditions in which the
SBR will generate a service request. It is bit-wise ANDed with the SBR and if the result is not
zero then bit 6 of the SBR is set (see Figure 6-5). The SRE is set by the *SRE command and
read by the *SRE? command.
6–8 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

6.1.6.3 Standard Event Status Register

The standard event status register (ESR) contains the 8 bits of the operation status report which
is defined in IEEE 488.2. If one or more event status bit is set to ‘1’ and their enable bits are
also ‘1’, bit 5 (called ESB) of the status register byte is set to ‘1’.
Each bit of the standard event status register is shown below.

BIT Name Meaning (True = ‘1’)

7 Power On (PON) True when the instrument power supply has been turned OFF and
then ON since the last time this register was read.

6 User Request (URQ) Not used. Always 0.

5 Command Error (CME) True if the following command errors occur:

An IEEE 488.2 syntax error occurred.

The device received a Group Execute Trigger (GET) inside a

program message.

4 Execution Error (EXE) True when a parameter following a header of a GPIB command
was evaluated by the instrument as being outside of its legal input
range or is otherwise inconsistent with the instrument’s capabilities.

3 Device Dependent Error True when any bit is set in the Encoded Message Register.
(DDE)

2 Query Error (QYE) True when attempting to read data from the output buffer in which
no data was present, or when the data was lost.

1 Request Control (RQC) Not used. Always 0.

0 Operation Complete (OPC) True when the instrument has completed all selected pending
operations before sending the *OPC command

Figure 6-6 Standard Event Status Register

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–9

Figure 6-7 Event Status Byte Register

6.1.6.4 Event Status Enable Register

The event status enable register (ESE) is a mask determining the conditions in which the ESR
will set bit 5 of the SBR. It is bit-wise ANDed with the ESR and if the result is not zero then
ESB (bit 5) of the SBR is set (see Figure 6-7). Thus any event affecting the ESR can be made to
generate a Service Request in conjunction with the ERE and the SRE.
The event status enable is set by the *ESE command and read by the *ESE? command.
6–10 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Figure 6-8 Standard Operation Status Group

6.1.6.5 Standard Operation Status Group

The standard operation status group provides information about the state of the measurement
systems in the instrument. This status group is accessed through the STATus subsystem.
Standard operation status includes a condition register, event register, and an enable register.
Figure 6-8 illustrates the structure of standard operation status.

6.1.6.6 Standard Operation Status Condition Register

This is a 16-bit register gathering information about the state of the measurement systems in an
instrument. According to SCPI recommendation, we define:

BIT Meaning (True = ‘1’)

0 Calibrating bit which is true when S/C trimming, O/C trimming, or

calibrating is in progress, and otherwise reset.

4 Measuring bit which is true when measurement is in progress, and

otherwise reset.

Other bits are unused and are 0.

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–11

6.1.6.7 Standard Operation Status Event Register

This is a 16-bit register; each event bit in the event register corresponds to a condition bit in the
standard operation status condition register. According to SCPI recommendation, we define:

BIT Meaning (True = ‘1’)

0 True when S/C trimming, O/C trimming, or calibration measurement is

completed.

4 Set true when single shot measurement is completed.

Other bits are uncommitted and are always 0.

6.1.6.8 Encoded Message Register

All front panel warnings and messages can be monitored over the GPIB. There are also several
extra flags, otherwise hidden, that are of interest to the bus user.
The encoded message query command returns a string of 8 hexadecimal digits. Each digit
represents 4 different errors or their combinations.
The encoded message format is as follows:

D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 D0

D0 indicates range or trim errors

bit0 = Range Error

bit1 = S/C Trim Error
bit2 = O/C Trim Error
bit3 = Calibrate Error

D1 is reserved for future expansion.

D2 indicates errors related to ALC operations.

bit0 = CANNOT SET LEVEL

bit1 = Reserved
bit2 = ALC HELD
bit3 = Reserved

D3 indicates errors related to data entry.

bit0 = Nearest Available

6–12 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

bit1 = Units Mismatched

bit2 = Connection Error
bit3 = Reserved

D4 is reserved.

D5 represents errors related to voltage Bias.

bit0 = Bias overload, Bias Turned Off

bit1 = Reserved
bit2 = Reserved
bit3 = Reserved

D6 is reserved.

D7 is reserved.

Any of the above messages will set bit 2 of the Service Request Register. If ‘Range Error’ or
‘Connection Error’ occurs, pseudo-measurement results ‘999.9E+15, 999.9E+15’ or
‘999.9E+15’ will be produced dependent on the measurement function.

6.1.7 Common Commands

Common commands are listed below. Their detailed description will be given later.

Command Name Description

*CLS Clear Status Clears the Event Status Register and associated status
data structure.

*ESE <NR1> Event Status Enable Sets the Event Status Enable Register to the value of the
data following the command.

*ESE? Event Status Enable Query Returns the current contents of the Standard Event
Status Enable Register as an integer in the range 0 to
255.

*ESR? Event Status Register Query Returns the current contents of the Standard Event
Status Register as an integer in the range 0 to 255. It
also clears ESR.

*SRE <NR1> Service Request Enable Sets the Service Request Enable Register to the value
following the command. The register is set except that bit
6 is ignored.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–13

Command Name Description

*SRE? Service Request Enable Query Returns the current contents of the Service Request
Enable Register as an integer in the range 0 to 63 and
128 to 255.

*STB? Status Byte Query Returns the current contents of the Status Byte with the
Master Summary bits as an integer in the range 0 to 255.
Bit 6 represents Master Summary Status rather than
Request Service.

*IDN? Identification Query Returns the data identifying the instrument. (e.g. the data
output will be: ‘WAYNE KERR,3260B,0,1.0’ where the
first field is the manufacturer, then the model number,
then a zero and the software revision number: here
represented as Issue 1.0).

*RST Reset Resets the instrument to a default setting. This command

is equivalent to a power-up reset.

*TRG Trigger Triggers a direct measurement, but does not return the
results to the controller. This is the same as a GET
(Group Execute Trigger) command.

*OPT Option Identification Query Returns the hardware options installed in the instrument.

*OPC Operation Complete Command Sets the OPC bit of the ESR register.

*OPC? Operation Complete Query Always returns 1 as instrument commands are always
processed sequentially.

*WAI Wait-to-continue Command has no effect as commands are processed

sequentially.

6.1.8 Standard Operation Status Commands

Refer to section 6.1.6 for an explanation of the following commands.

Command Description Query

Read Status Operation

:STATus:OPERation:CON?
Condition register.

Read Status Operation

:STATus:OPERation:EVENt?
Event register

Set Status Operation

:STATus:OPERation:ENABle <NR1>
Enable Register
6–14 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

6.2 Device-Specific Commands

The sub-system commands are grouped in different modes similar to the local operation. The
recommended discipline to control the instrument under GPIB is to select the mode and the
type of test first, then change the measurement conditions. Trying to change measurement
conditions which are not in the present mode and type of test will be rejected and return an
error flag.

6.2.1 Command Summary

Command Summary Page

:IMPedance Select impedance mode/path. 6–23

IMP:TEST Select test sub-path within impedance mode. 6–23

:IMP:TEST:AC Select AC measurement. 6–23

:IMP:TEST:RDC Select Rdc measurement. 6–23

:IMP:TEST? Impedance test query. 6–24

:IMP:TRIGger Trigger an AC or Rdc measurement. 6–24

:IMP:FREQuency <real> Set frequency of AC measurement. 6–24

:IMP:FREQuency? Frequency query. 6–24

:IMP:LEVel <real> Set the AC drive level. 6–25

:IMP:LEVel? Drive level query. 6–25

:IMP:DRIVE? Test level drive type query. 6–25

:IMP:BIAS <disc> Control internal and external bias drive. 6–26

:IMP:BIAS-STATus? Bias status query. 6–26

:IMP:SPEED <disc> Select measurement speed. 6–26

:IMP:SPEED? Speed query. 6–26

:IMP:RANGE <disc> Select auto-ranging or range-hold on range N. 6–27

:IMP:RANGE? Measurement range query. 6–27

:IMP:ALC <disc> Select the state of Automatic Level Control. 6–27

:IMP:ALC? ALC status query. 6–27

:IMP:EQU-CCT <disc> Select equivalent circuit. 6–28

:IMP:EQU-CCT? Equivalent circuit query. 6–28

:IMP:FUNC: C, L, Z, Q, D, or R Select first or second AC measurement function. 6–28

:IMP:FUNC:MAJOR? First AC function query. 6–29

:IMP:FUNC:MINOR? Second AC function query. 6–29

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–15

Command Summary Page

:IMP:SCALE <disc> Select the state of the scale bar. 6–30

:IMP:SCALE? Scale status query. 6–30

:IMP:NOMinal <real> Set nominal value for scale. 6–30

:IMP:NOMinal? Nominal query. 6–30

:IMP:LIMIT <disc> Set percentage or absolute scale limits. 6–31

:IMP:LIMIT? Limit type query. 6–31

:IMP:HIgh-LIMit <real> Set scale high limit. 6–31

:IMP:HIgh-LIMit? High limit query. 6–31

:IMP:LOw-LIMit <real> Set scale low limit. 6–32

:IMP:LOw-LIMit? Low limit query. 6–32

:TRANsformer Enter Transformer mode / path. 6–33

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-LQ Select Primary L+Q measurement. 6–33

:TRAN:TEST? Transformer test query 6–33

:TRAN:TEST:RATIO Select Ratio measurement. 6–34

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-RDC Select Primary Rdc measurement. 6–34

:TRAN:TEST:Secondary-RDC Select Secondary Rdc measurement. 6–34

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-LEakage Select Primary Leakage measurement. 6–34

:TRAN:TEST:Secondary-LEakage Select Secondary Leakage measurement. 6–35

:TRAN:TEST:Capacitance Select interwinding capacitance measurement. 6–35

:TRAN:TRIGger Trigger a specified type of measurement and return results. 6–35

:TRAN:FREQuency <real> Set frequency. 6–36

:TRAN:FREQuency? Frequency query. 6–36

:TRAN:LEVel <real> Set AC level 6–36

:TRAN:LEVel? AC level query. 6–36

:TRAN:SPEED <disc> Select measurement speed. 6–37

:TRAN:SPEED? Measurement speed query. 6–37

:TRAN:RANGE <disc> Select measurement range condition for transformer tests. 6–37

:TRAN:RANGE? Measurement range query. 6–37

:TRAN:ALC <disc> Select the state of Automatic Level Correction. 6–38

:TRAN:ALC? ALC status query. 6–38

:TRAN:FUNC:NS/NP Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns/Np measurement. 6–38

:TRAN:FUNC:NP/NS Select the display of Turns Ratio Np/Ns measurement. 6–39

6–16 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Command Summary Page

:TRAN:FUNC:NS <real> Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns measurement with Np = x. 6–39

:TRAN:FUNC:MAJOR? Major term query. 6–38

:TRAN:FUNC:NP? Np query 6–39

:TRAN:EQU-CCT <disc> Select equivalent circuit. 6–40

:TRAN:EQU-CCT? Equivalent circuit query. 6–40

:TRAN:RATio-CORRection <disc> Select the type of transformer for turns ratio correction. 6–40

:TRAN:RATio-CORRection? Ratio correction query. 6–40

:INSulation Select Insulation mode / path. 6–41

:INS:PRImary-SECondary Select Primary to Secondary insulation measurement. 6–41

:INS:PRImary-GND Select Primary to ground insulation measurement. 6–41

:INS:SECondary-GND Select Secondary to ground insulation measurement. 6–41

:INS:LEVel <integer> Set insulation test level. 6–42

:INS:LEVel? Insulation test level query. 6–42

:INS:DISPlay <disc> Select display µA or MΩ. 6–42

:INS:TRIGger Trigger the insulation test and return results. 6–42

:BINning Select binning mode / path. 6–43

:BINning:SET Select BIN SET mode. 6–43

:BINning:SORT Select BIN SORT mode. 6–43

:BINning:COUNT Select BIN COUNT mode. 6–43

:BINning:NOMinal <real> Set binning mode nominal. 6–44

:BINning:NOMinal? Nominal query. 6–44

:BINning:LIMIT <disc> Select absolute or relative bin limits. 6–44

:BINning:LIMIT? Limit query. 6–44

:BINning:BIN <integer> Select a bin to manipulate. 6–45

:BINning:BIN? Bin number query. 6–45

:BINning:HIgh-LIMit <real> Set high limit. 6–45

:BINning:HIgh-LIMit? High limit query. 6–45

:BINning:LOw-LIMit <real> Set low limit. 6–45

:BINning:LOw-LIMit? Low limit query. 6–45

:BINning:MINOR <real> Set minor term limit if it is applicable on the selected test. 6–46
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–17

Command Summary Page

:BINning:MINOR? Minor term query. 6–46

:BINning:DEL-ALL Reset all the bin counters in BIN COUNT mode. 6–46

:BINning:SAVE <integer> Save the present setup in a store. 6–46

:BINning:LOAD <integer> Load a set of bin limits from non-volatile memory. 6–47

In BIN SORT or BIN COUNT mode, trigger a measurement

:BINning:TRIG 6–48
and return results.

Decrement by 1 in the most recent bin counter in BIN COUNT

:BINning:DEL-LAST 6–48
mode.

:BINning:RES? Return the counts from all the bin counters. 6–48

:SEQuence Select Sequence mode / path. 6–49

:SEQ:PROGram <integer> <contents> Upload a sequence program to the instrument. 6–49

Program query. Download a sequence program from the

:SEQ:PROGram? <integer> 6–49
instrument.

:SEQ:DELete <integer> Delete a sequence program. 6–49

:SEQ:RUN <integer> Run a sequence program. 6–50

:SEQ:RESult? Sequence result query 6–50

:SEQ:LIST? Returns a list of the sequence programs stored in the analyzer. 6–50

:SEQ:CLR Clears all the sequence programs stored in the analyzer. 6–50

:HANdler Select handler mode / path. 6–51

:HAN:TEST:RDC Select Rdc measurement. 6–51

:HAN:TEST? Impedance test query. 6–51

:HAN:TEST:AC Select AC measurement. 6–51

:HAN:TEST:RATIO Select Turns Ratio measurement. 6–51

:HAN:FREQuency <real> Set frequency. 6–52

:HAN:FREQuency? Frequency query. 6–52

:HAN:LEVel <real> Set drive level. 6–52

:HAN:LEVel? Returns the test level of the currently selected test. 6–52

:HAN:BIAS <disc> Set the bias condition. 6–53

:HAN:BIAS? Bias level query. 6–53

:HAN:BIAS-STATus? Bias the current bias status. 6–53

:HAN:SPEED <disc> Select measurement speed. 6–54

:HAN:SPEED? Measurement speed query. 6–54

:HAN:RANGE <disc> Select auto-ranging or range-hold. 6–54

6–18 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Command Summary Page

:HAN:RANGE? Range query. Returns measurement range in integer. 6–54

:HAN:ALC <disc> Select the state of Automatic Level Correction. 6–55

:HAN:ALC? ALC status query. 6–55

:HAN:EQU-CCT <disc> Select equivalent circuit. 6–55

:HAN:EQU-CCT? Equivalent circuit query. 6–55

:HAN:FUNC:L, C, Z, Q, D, R Select major and minor terms. 6–56

:HAN:FUNC:MAJOR? Major term query. 6–57

:HAN:FUNC:MINOR? Minor term query. 6–57

:HAN:FUNC:NS/NP Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns/Np measurement. 6–57

:HAN:FUNC:NP/NS Select the display of Turns Ratio Np/Ns measurement. 6–57

:HAN:FUNC:NS <real> Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns measurement with Np = x. 6–58

:HAN:FUNC:NP? Np query. 6–58

:HAN:CLRLCD Clear the LCD Display 6–58

:HAN:XCURSOR <integer> Set X cursor pixel position. 6–58

:HAN:YCURSOR <integer> Set Y cursor pixel position. 6–59

:HAN:DISP-SMALL <string> Display string in small characters. 6–59

:HAN:DISP-LARGE <string> Display string in large characters. 6–59

:HAN:RATio-CORRection <disc> Select the type of transformer for turns ratio correction. 6–60

:HAN:RATio-CORRection? Transformer turns ratio correction query. 6–60

:TELecom Select telecommunications transformer test mode / path. 6–61

:TELecom:FREQuency <real> Set the telecom test frequency. 6–61

:TELecom:FREQuency? Query the telecom test frequency. 6–61

:TELecom:NETwork Set the damping network state. 6–61

:TELecom:NETwork? Query the damping network state. 6–61

:TELecom:BLOCK Turn on and off the blocking capacitor in the damping

6–62
network.

:TELecom:Z0 <real> Set the telecom test line impedance value. 6–62

:TELecom:Z0? Query the telecom test line impedance. 6–62

:TELecom:Rt <real> Set the telecom test termination resistor value. 6–62

:TELecom:Rt? Query the telecom test termination resistor. 6–62

:TELecom:Ct <real> Set the telecom test termination capacitor value. 6–63
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–19

Command Summary Page

:TELecom:Ct? Query the telecom test termination capacitor. 6–63

:TELecom:Cd <real> Set the telecom test damping network capacitor value. 6–63

:TELecom:Cd? Query the telecom test damping network capacitor. 6–63

:TELecom:Rd <real> Set the telecom test damping network resistor value. 6–63

:TELecom:Rd? Query the telecom test damping network resistor. 6–63

:TELecom:Cb <real> Set the telecom test blocking capacitor value. 6–64

:TELecom:Cb? Query the telecom test blocking capacitor. 6–64

:MULTI Select multi-frequency mode / path. 6–65

:MULTI:SET Switch to the multi-frequency set-up page. 6–65

:MULTI:RUN Switch to the multi-frequency run page. 6–65

:MULTI:TEST Select the frequency step to edit. 6–65

Return the number of the frequency that is currently being

:MULTI:TEST? 6–65
edited.

:MULTI:FREQuency <real> Set the frequency for the currently selected step. 6–66

Returns the frequency of the currently selected multi-

:MULTI:FREQuency? 6–66
frequency step.

:MULTI:HIgh-LIMit <real> Set the higher test limit of the currently selected step. 6–66

Returns the high limit value of the currently selected multi-

:MULTI:HIgh-LIMit? 6–66
frequency step.

: MULTI:LOw-LIMit <real> Set the lower test limit of the currently selected step. 6–67

Returns the low limit value of the currently selected multi-

: MULTI:LOw-LIMit? 6–67
frequency step.

: MULTI:MINor <real> Set the minor test limit of the currently selected step. 6–67

: MULTI:MINor? Returns the minor limit value of the currently selected step. 6–67

:MULTI:NOMinal <real> Set the multi-frequency nominal value. 6–67

:MULTI:NOMinal? Returns the multi-frequency nominal value. 6–67

:MULTI:LIMIT <disc> Selects absolute or percentage limits checking. 6–68

:MULTI:LIMIT? Returns the current limits checking mode. 6–68

:MULTI:DEL Removes the current frequency. 6–68

:MULTI:SORT <disc> Sorts the current frequency list into the required order. 6–69

:MULTI:TRIGger Starts a run of multi-frequency measurements. 6–69

:MULTI:RES? <integer> Query the result of the selected frequency step. 6–69

:GRAPH Select graphing mode / path. 6–70

6–20 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Command Summary Page

:GRAPH:StarT <real> Set the start frequency for the sweep. 6–70

:GRAPH:StarT? Returns the start frequency of the sweep. 6–70

:GRAPH:StoP <real> Set the stop frequency for the sweep. 6–70

:GRAPH:StoP? Returns the stop frequency of the sweep. 6–70

:GRAPH:LOGF <disc> Selects the frequency scale type. 6–71

:GRAPH:LOGF? Returns the current frequency scale type. 6–71

:GRAPH:LOGY <disc> Selects the measurement scale type. 6–71

:GRAPH:LOGY? Returns the current measurement scale type. 6–71

:GRAPH:LIMIT <disc> Selects absolute or relative plotting. 6–72

:GRAPH:LIMIT? Returns the current graph plotting mode. 6–72

Returns the first and second measurement from the current

:GRAPH:MarKer? 6–72
marker position.

:GRAPH:MarKerF <real> Move the marker to the frequency nearest the supplied value. 6–73

:GRAPH:MarKerF? Returns the current marker frequency. 6–73

:GRAPH:MAJor-LOw <real> Set the Y-axis start point for the first measurement type. 6–73

Query the current Y-axis start point for the first measurement
:GRAPH:MAJor-LOw? 6–73
type.

:GRAPH:MAJor-HIgh <real> Set the Y-axis stop point for the first measurement type. 6–74

Query the current Y-axis stop point for the first measurement
:GRAPH:MAJor-High? 6–74
type.

:GRAPH:MINor-LOw <real> Set the Y-axis start point for the second measurement type. 6–74

Query the current Y-axis start point for the second

:GRAPH:MINor-LOw? 6–74
measurement type.

:GRAPH:MINor-HIgh <real> Set the Y-axis stop point for the second measurement type. 6–75

Query the current Y-axis stop point for the second

:GRAPH:MINor-High? 6–75
measurement type.

Set the nominal value for use when graphs are being plotted
:GRAPH:NOMinal <real> 6–75
in percentage mode.

:GRAPH:NOMinal? Returns the current graph nominal. 6–75

:GRAPH:TERM <integer> Set which measurement will be shown/viewed. 6–76

:GRAPH:TERM? Query the current measurement selection. 6–76

Select the number of pixels between each measured point on

:GRAPH:STEP <integer> 6–76
the graph.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–21

Command Summary Page

:GRAPH:STEP? Query the current step size for the plot. 6–76

:GRAPH:SET Go to the graph mode set-up page. 6–77

:GRAPH:VIEW Redraw the graph. 6–77

:GRAPH:FIT Fit the Y-axis scale to the current measurement data. 6–77

:GRAPH:TRIG Start plotting a graph with the current settings. 6–77

:GRAPH:PEAK Move the marker to the highest point on the current graph. 6–78

:GRAPH:DIP Move the marker to the lowest point on the current graph. 6–78

:GRAPH:PRINT Print the current graph on an Epson compatible printer. 6–78

:GRAPH:TEST <disc> Set the test type. 6–79

:GRAPH:TEST? Query the test type. 6–79

:GRAPH:TYPE <disc> Set the sweep parameter. 6–79

:GRAPH:TYPE? Query the sweep parameter. 6–79

:RESOnance Enter resonance mode / path. 6–80

:RESOnance:StarT <real> Set the start frequency for the search. 6–80

:RESOnance:StarT? Returns the start frequency of the search. 6–80

:RESOnance:StoP <real> Set the stop frequency for the search. 6–80

:RESOnance:StoP? Returns the stop frequency of the search. 6–80

:RESOnance:EQU-CCT <disc> Select the equivalent circuit type for resonance search. 6–81

:RESOnance:EQU-CCT? Returns the currently selected equivalent circuit. 6–81

:RESOnance:TRIG Begin a resonance search. 6–81

:DEMAG Select demagnetization mode / path. 6–82

:DEMAG:FREQuency <real> Set demagnetization frequency 6–82

:DEMAG:FREQuency? Demagnetization frequency query. 6–82

:DEMAG:LEVel <real> Set the demagnetization initial level. 6–82

:DEMAG:LEVel? Demagnetization level query 6–82

:DEMAG:TRIG Start demagnetization. 6–83

:CAL Select calibrate mode / path. 6–84

:CAL:OC-TRIM <integer> Perform open circuit trimming. 6–84

:CAL:SC-TRIM <integer> Perform short circuit trimming. 6–85

:CAL:HF-CAL Perform HF lead compensation. 6–85

Perform self-calibration; disconnect all BNCs from the

:CAL:SELF-CAL 6–85
instrument terminals before using this command.
6–22 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

Command Summary Page

:CAL:RES? Returns the result of the calibration performed. 6–86

:TRIGger Trigger a measurement in the current mode. 6–87

:LOC-TRIG <disc> Select local trigger condition. 6–87

:LOC-TRIG? Query the local trigger condition. 6–87

Enable repetitive measurements when unit is returned to local

:REPeat <disc> 6–88
control.

:Repeat? Query trigger status. 6–88

:TERMinal <integer> Select 2 or 4 terminal measurements. 6–88

:TERMinal? Query the current terminal setting. 6–88

:SETUP <disc> Select set-up view ON and OFF. 6–89

:SETUP? Query the current set-up mode. 6–89

:FAST-GPIB <disc> Select fast GPIB mode. 6–89

:FAST-GPIB? Query fast GPIB mode. 6–89

:MODE? Query the currently selected operating mode. 6–90

:DUMP-BMP Returns the display as a windows compatible bitmap. 6–91

:DE-MAG <disc> Set demagnetization function state. 6–91

:DE-MAG? Query demagnetization status. 6–91

:LO-MAG <disc> Set low magnetization function state. 6–91

:LO-MAG? Query low magnetization status. 6–91

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–23

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMPedance
Select impedance mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:IMP:TEST
Select test sub-path within impedance mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:IMP:TEST:AC
Select AC measurement.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:IMP:TEST:RDC
Select Rdc measurement.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.
6–24 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:TEST?
Measurement test query.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
0 AC measurement type.
1 Rdc measurement type.

:IMP:TRIGger
Trigger a measurement using the current settings.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
For AC measurements the response will be the first and second measurements separated by
a comma.
Example: 68.860E-9 , 13.0E+6
For Rdc measurements the response will be a single measurement result.
Example: 6.2295E+3

:IMP:FREQuency <real> :IMP:FREQuency?

Set the frequency of AC measurements. Returns the current AC test frequency.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :IMP:FREQ 1k
Returns the current test frequency in
:IMP:FREQ 1000 Hz
engineering format.
:IMP:FREQ 1E3
Example: +.10000000E+04
are all equivalent commands and set
for a test frequency of 1kHz.
the test frequency to 1kHz.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–25

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:LEVel <real> :IMP:LEVel?

Set the AC drive level. Returns the AC drive level.

Parameters: Parameters:
For AC tests supply the required drive None.
level in either Volts or Amps.
Response:
Example: :IMP:LEV 1.2V
Returns the current test level in
:IMP:LEV 1E-2A
engineering format.
will select drive levels of 1.2V and
Example: +.20000000E-01
10mA respectively.
for a test level of 20mV.
Response:
None.

:IMP:DRIVE?
Test level drive type query.

Parameters
None

Response
0 Current drive
255 Voltage drive
6–26 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:BIAS <disc> :IMP:BIAS-STATus?

Set the voltage bias condition. Returns the current bias status.

Parameters: Parameters:
ON Turn on bias. None.
OFF Turn off bias.
Response:
INT Select internal bias.
Returns bias status in two integers
EEXT Select external bias. delimited by a comma:
Example: :IMP:BIAS INT First integer: 0 Bias OFF.
:IMP:BIAS ON 1 Bias ON.
will select internal bias and turn it on. Second integer: 0 Internal bias.
1 External bias.
Response:
Example: 1,0
None.
would indicate that internal voltage
bias is turned on.

:IMP:SPEED <disc> :IMP:SPEED?

Select the required measurement speed. Returns the current test speed.

Parameters: Parameters:
MAX Maximum speed. None.
FAST Fast speed.
Response:
MED Medium speed.
Returns the test speed as an integer
SLOW Slow speed. according to the table:
Example: :IMP:SPEED SLOW 0 Maximum
will select slow speed for 1 Fast
measurements.
2 Medium
Response: 3 Slow
None. Example: 1
indicates that Fast measurements are
selected.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–27

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:RANGE <disc> :IMP:RANGE?

Select the measurement range condition for Measurement range query
AC and Rdc tests.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
AUTO Auto-ranging.
Returns the measurement range as an
HOLD Hold current range.
integer according to this table:
1 to 7 Range 1 to 7
0 Auto-ranging.
Example: :IMP:RANGE 1
1-7 Current measurement range.
:IMP:RANGE AUTO
Example: 0
will select range 1 and auto-ranging
indicates that auto ranging is selected.
respectively.

Response:
None.

:IMP:ALC <disc> :IMP:ALC?

Select the state of Automatic Level Control Automatic Level Control status query.
for AC tests.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
ON ALC on.
Returns the ALC state according to this
OFF ALC off.
table:
HOLD Hold current ALC level.
0 OFF.
Example: :IMP:ALC OFF
1 ON.
will turn off ALC.
2 HELD.
Response: Example: 2
None. indicates that ALC is currently held.
6–28 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:EQU-CCT <disc> :IMP:EQU-CCT?

Select the equivalent circuit type for AC Equivalent circuit query.
tests.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
SER Series equivalent circuit.
Returns the equivalent circuit flag
PAR Parallel equivalent circuit.
according to this table:
Example: :IMP:EQU-CCT SER
0 Parallel.
will select series equivalent circuit.
1 Series.
Response: Example: 0
None. indicates that parallel equivalent circuit
is selected.

:IMP:FUNC:C, L, Z, Q, D, R
Select first or second AC measurement function.

Parameters
Selecting first measurement:
:IMP:FUNC:C Capacitance.
:IMP:FUNC:L Inductance.
:IMP:FUNC:Z Impedance.

Selecting second measurement:

:IMP:FUNC:Q Quality factor.
:IMP:FUNC:D Dissipation factor.
:IMP:FUNC:R Resistance.
Note that selecting Z as the first measurement will force the second measurement to be
Angle. This does not change the equivalent circuit flag setting.
Example: :IMP:FUNC:C;D
will select C+D measurements.

Response
None
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–29

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:FUNC:MAJOR?
First AC function query.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
Returns the measurement type according to this table:
0 Inductance.
1 Capacitance
2 Impedance.
Example: 2
indicates that the first measurement is impedance (Z).

:IMP:FUNC:MINOR?
Second AC function query (non-polar measurements).

Parameters:
None.

Response:
Returns the measurement type according to this table:
0 Q-Factor.
1 D-Factor.
2 Resistance.
Example: 1
indicates that the second measurement is dissipation factor (D). Note that if the first
measurement is polar (Z), this query will return the last non-polar setting.
6–30 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:SCALE <disc> :IMP:SCALE?

Show/Hide the scale bar. Returns the current status of the scale bar.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following parameters are valid: None.
ON Show scale.
Response:
OFF Hide scale.
Returns scale setting according to this
Example: :IMP:SCALE OFF table:
will turn off the scale. 0 Scale hidden.
1 Scale visible.
Response:
Example: 0
None.
indicates that the scale is currently
hidden.

:IMP:NOMinal <real> :IMP:NOMinal?

Set the scale bar nominal value. Returns the scale bar graph nominal value.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required nominal value. If a unit is None.
supplied it must that of either the first
or second measurement otherwise the Response:
unit mismatch error will be set. If no Returns the nominal in engineering
unit is supplied the current nominal format.
unit will be used.
Example: +.10000000E-01
Examples:
would indicate a nominal of 10mH if
:IMP:NOMINAL 1e-6F the first nominal unit is Henrys.
will set a nominal of 1uF.
:IMP:NOMINAL 0.47e-5
will set a nominal of 4.7uF

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–31

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:LIMIT <disc> :IMP:LIMIT?

Select absolute or percentage scale bar Returns the current scale bar limits type.
limits.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following discrete parameters are
valid: Response:
ABS Absolute limits. Returns the scale bar limits according
to this table:
PERC Percentage limits.
0 Absolute scale.
Example: :IMP:LIMIT PERC
1 Percentage scale.
will select percentage limits.
Example: 0
Response:
indicates that the scale bar currently
None. has absolute limits.

:IMP:HIgh-LIMit <real> :IMP:HIgh-LIMit?

Set the percentage scale bar high limit. Returns the current scale bar percentage
high limit.
Parameters:
Parameters:
The required high limit. No unit should
be supplied: the nominal unit is used. None.
Example: :IMP:HI-LIM 5.0
Response:
will set a high limit of +5.0% of
The current high limit in engineering
nominal.
format.
Response: Example: +.25000000E+01
None. indicating a high limit of +2.5% of
nominal.
6–32 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

IMPEDANCE MODE

:IMP:Low-LIMit <real> :IMP:LOw-LIMit?

Set the percentage scale bar low limit. Returns the current scale bar percentage
low limit.
Parameters:
Parameters:
The required low limit. No unit should
be supplied: the nominal unit is used. None.
Example: :IMP:LO-LIM -5.0
Response:
will set a low limit of -5.0% of
The current low limit in engineering
nominal.
format.
Response: Example: -.20000000E+01
None. indicating a high limit of -2.0% of
nominal.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–33

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRANsformer
Enter Transformer mode / path.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-LQ
Select Primary L+Q measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST?
Transformer test query.

Parameters
None.

Response
0 P-LQ
1 Ratio
2 P-RDC
3 S-RDC
4 P-LE
5 S-LE
6 C
6–34 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:TEST:RATIO
Select ratio measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-RDC
Select Primary Rdc measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST:Secondary-RDC
Select Secondary Rdc measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST:Primary-LEakage
Select Primary Leakage measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–35

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:TEST:Secondary-LEakage
Select Secondary Leakage measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TEST:Capacitance
Select interwinding capacitance measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None.

:TRAN:TRIGger
Trigger a specified type of measurement and return results.

Parameters
None.

Response
The measurement result as displayed. Multiple results (L + Q, Leakage) will be separated
by commas.
Example: 5.0E + 0
would indicate a turns ratio of 5:1.
6–36 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:FREQuency <real> :TRAN:FREQuency?

Set frequency of test selected. Frequency query.

Parameters Parameters
The required test frequency in Hertz. None
The unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional. Suffix
multipliers K, M, G may be used. Response
Example: :TRAN:FREQ 1k Return the current test frequency in Hz
as floating point number.
:TRAN:FREQ 1000 Hz
Example: 2.50E2
:TRAN:FREQ 1E3
for a test frequency of 250Hz.
are all equivalent commands and set
the test frequency to 1kHz.

Response
None

:TRAN:LEVel <real> :TRAN:LEVel?

Set AC level of test selected. Returns the test level of the currently
selected test type.
Parameters
Parameters:
Supply the required level in either
Volts or Amps. If no suffix is stated, None.
the previous type of drive is set.
Response:
Note:
Returns the current test level in
Current drive is not available in Turns
engineering format.
Ratio tests.
Example: +.20000000E-01
Example: :TRAN:LEV 1.2V
for a test level of 20mV.
:TRAN:LEV 1E-2A
will select levels of 1.2V and 10mA
respectively.

Response
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–37

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:SPEED <disc> :TRAN:SPEED?

Select the required measurement speed. Measurement speed query.

Parameters: Parameters:
MAX Maximum speed. None.
FAST Fast speed.
Response:
MED Medium speed.
Returns the test speed as an integer
SLOW Slow speed. according to the table:
Example: :TRAN:SPEED SLOW 0 Maximum
will select slow speed for 1 Fast
measurements.
2 Medium
Response: 3 Slow
None. Example: 1
indicates that Fast measurements are
selected.

:TRAN:RANGE <disc> TRAN:RANGE?

Select measurement range condition for Measurement range query.
transformer tests.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
AUTO Auto-ranging.
Returns the measurement range as an
HOLD Hold current range.
integer according to this table:
1 to 7 Range 1 to 7
0 Auto-ranging.
Example: :TRAN:RANGE 1
1-7 Current measurement range.
:TRAN:RANGE AUTO
Example: 0
will select range 1 and auto-ranging
indicates that auto ranging is selected.
respectively.

Response:
None.
6–38 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:ALC <disc> :TRAN:ALC?

Select the state of Automatic Level Automatic Level Control status query.
Control.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
ON ALC on.
Returns the ALC state according to this
OFF ALC off.
table:
HOLD Hold current ALC level.
0 OFF.
Example: :TRAN:ALC OFF
1 ON.
will turn off ALC.
2 HOLD.
Response: Example: 2
None. indicates that ALC is currently held.

:TRAN:FUNC:NS/NP :TRAN:FUNC:MAJOR?
Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns/Np Major term query.
measurement.
Parameters
Parameters
None.
None.
Response
Response
0 Ns/Np
None
1 Np/Ns
2 Ns
Example: 0
indicates that the transformer test is set
to Ns/Np.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–39

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:FUNC:NP/NS :TRAN:FUNC:NP?
Select the display of Turns Ratio Np/Ns Np query.
measurement.
Parameters
Parameters
None.
None.
Response
Response
Returns the value of Np as floating
None point number.

:TRAN:FUNC:NS <real>
Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns measurement.

Parameters
<real> is decimal numeric data to specify the number of turns of Np.
Example: :TRAN:FUNC:NS 1
will set Np to 1 turn.

Response
None
6–40 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TRANSFORMER MODE

:TRAN:EQU-CCT <disc> :TRAN:EQU-CCT?

Select the equivalent circuit type for Equivalent circuit query.
transformer tests.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
SER Series equivalent circuit. Response:

PAR Parallel equivalent circuit. Returns the equivalent circuit status

according to this table:
AUTO Sets series or parallel
equivalent circuit according to 0 Parallel.
the resistance of the primary 1 Series.
winding, as follows:
2 AUTO
>250Ω = Parallel
<250Ω = Series Example: 0
Example: :TRAN:EQU-CCT SER indicates that parallel equivalent circuit
will select that series equivalent is selected.
circuit.

Response:
None.

:TRAN:RATio-CORRection <disc> :TRAN:RATio-CORRection?

Select the type of transformer for turns Ratio correction query.
ratio correction.
Parameters:
Parameters
None.
The following parameters are valid:
OFF Normal transformer with Response
low primary impedance. Returns the turns ratio correction status
NORM Normal transformer with according to this table:
primary impedance >50Ω. 0 OFF
AUTO Auto transformer (common 1 NORM
connection between one end
2 AUTO
of primary and secondary
windings) Example: 0
indicates that turns ratio correction is
Response
OFF.
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–41

INSULATION MODE

:INSulation
Select Insulation mode / path.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:INS:PRImary-SECondary
Select Primary to Secondary insulation measurement.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:INS:PRImary-GND
Select Primary to ground insulation measurement.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:INS:SECondary-GND
Select Secondary to ground insulation measurement.

Parameters
None

Response
None
6–42 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

INSULATION MODE

:INS:LEVel <integer> :INS:LEVel?

Set insulation test level. Insulation test level query.

Parameters Parameters
<integer> is decimal integer data None
which can be 100, 200 or 500.
Response
Example: :INS:LEV 500
Returns the test level in volts as integer
will set the insulation test level to
number 100, 200 or 500.
500V.

Response
None

:INS:DISPlay <disc>
Select display µA or MΩ.

Parameters
UA or MOHM.
Example: :INS:DISP UA
will set the analyzer to display µA.

Response
None

:INS:TRIGger
Trigger the insulation test and return results.

Parameters
None

Response
The test result in engineering format.
Example: 5E + 7
would indicate an insulation resistance of 50MΩ.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–43

BINNING MODE

:BINning
Select one of the previously worked binning modes / binning command path.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:BINning:SET
Select BIN SET mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:BINning:SORT
Select BIN SORT mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:BINning:COUNT
Select BIN COUNT mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.
6–44 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

BIN SET MODE

:BINning:NOMinal <real> :BINning:NOMinal?

Set binning mode nominal if Bin Set Nominal query.
percentage mode is selected.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required bin nominal value. No
unit is required: the measurement mode Response:
unit is used. Returns the nominal in engineering
Example :BIN:NOM 68e-9 format.

will set a nominal value of 68nF. Example: 0.68E-07

would indicate a nominal of 68nF if
Response:
the measurement is capacitance
None.

:BINning:LIMIT <disc> :BINning:LIMIT?

Set percentage or absolute mode. Limit query.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following discrete parameters are None.
valid:
Response:
ABS Absolute limits.
0 Absolute limits.
PERC Limits as a percentage of
nominal. 1 Percentage limits.
Example: :BIN:LIMIT PERC Example: 1

will set the test limits to a percentage indicates that components will be
of the nominal value. tested against limits that are a
percentage of the nominal value.
Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–45

BIN SET MODE

:BINning:BIN <integer> :BINning:BIN?

In BIN SET, select a bin (bin 0 to bin 8) to Bin number query.
manipulate.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
An integer in the range 0 to 8.
Response:
Example: :BIN:BIN 3
Returns the present bin.
will select bin 3 for editing.
Example: 5
Response:
indicates that the settings for bin
None. number 5 are those currently being
edited.

:BINning:HIgh-LIMit <real> :BINning:HIgh-LIMit?

Set high limit. High limit query.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required high limit. <real> is None.
decimal numeric data. No suffix is
allowed. Response:
Example: :BIN:HI-LIM 10.0 Returns high limit value as a floating
point number.
will set a high limit of 10% when
percentage limits are selected. Example: 0.50E + 0
indicates a high limit of +5% when
Response:
percentage limits are selected.
None.

:BINning:LOw-LIMit <real> :BINning:LOw-LIMit?

Set low limit. Low limit query.

Parameters: Parameters:
<real> is decimal numeric data. No None.
suffix is allowed.
Response:
Example: :BIN:LO-LIM -10.0
Returns low limit value as a floating
will set a low limit of -10% when
point number.
percentage limits are selected.
Example: -.50000000E+01
Response:
indicates a high limit of -5% when
None. percentage limits are selected.
6–46 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

BIN SET MODE

:BINning:MINOR <real> :BINning:MINOR?

Set minor term limit if it is applicable on Minor term query.
the selected test.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
<value> is decimal numeric data. No
suffix is allowed. Response:
Example: :BIN:MINOR 1.0 Returns low limit value as a floating
point number.
will set a low limit of 1.0 for the minor
test. Example: .10000000E+01
indicates a minor limit of 1.0.
Response:
None.

:BINning:DEL-ALL
Reset all the bin counters in BIN COUNT mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:BINning:SAVE <integer>
In BIN SET mode, save the present setup in non-volatile memory.

Parameters:
The memory store to use in the range 1 to 99.
Example: :BIN:SAVE 2
will save the current bin limits to memory store number 2.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–47

BIN SET MODE

:BINning:LOAD <integer>
Load a set of bin limits from non-volatile memory.

Parameters:
The memory store to use in the range 1 to 99.
Example: :BIN:LOAD 1
will load the set-up currently stored in memory number 1.

Response:
None.
6–48 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

BIN SORT AND BIN COUNT MODES

:BINning:TRIG
In BIN SORT or BIN COUNT mode, trigger a measurement and return results.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
In BIN SORT mode both the measurement result and the bin number are returned.
Example: 14.235E-6 , 5.820 ; 3
where the first two numbers are the measurement and the number after the semicolon is the
sorted bin.
In BIN COUNT mode only the result bin is returned.
Example: 3
indicating that the component met the characteristics of bin 3.

:BINning:DEL-LAST
Decrement by 1 in the most recent bin counter in BIN COUNT mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:BINning:RES?
Return the counts from all the bin counters.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
The cumulative counts of all the bins 0 to 8, the reject bin and the total number of
components tested are returned in comma delimited form.
Example: 4, 3, 2, 6, 3, 7, 8, 2, 5, 1, 34
indicating a total of 34 components tested with 1 reject and bins 0 through 8 containing 4,
3, 2, 6, 3, 7, 8, 2, 5 components respectively.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–49

SEQUENCE MODE

:SEQuence
Select Sequence mode / path.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:SEQ:PROGram <integer> <contents> :SEQ:PROGram? <integer>

Upload a sequence program to the Program query. Download a sequence
instrument. program from the instrument.

Parameters Parameters
The program will be stored in the The program stored in the analyzer
analyzer with the program number with the program number <integer>, 0
<integer>, 0 to 65535. to 65535, is sent to the controller if it
exists.
<contents> conforms to the IEEE488.2
and SCPI ‘Definite Length Block Example: :SEQ:PROG? 23
Response Data’.
will download program number 23 to
the controller.
Response
If the program number already exists, Response
an Execute Error will be generated.
If the program number does not exist
an Execute Error will be generated.

:SEQ:DELete <integer>
Delete a sequence program.

Parameters
The program stored in the analyzer with program number <int>, 0 to 65535, will be deleted
without warning if it exists.
Example: :SEQ:DEL 65
will delete the analyzer sequence program number 65 (if it exists). NO WARNING WILL
BE GIVEN!

Response
If the program number does not exist an Execute Error will be generated.
6–50 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

SEQUENCE MODE

:SEQ:RUN <integer> :SEQ:RESult?

Run a sequence program. Sequence result query.

Parameters Parameters
The program stored in the analyzer None
with program number <int>, 0 to
65535, will be loaded and run if it Response
exists. Returns the result of the sequence
Example: :SEQ:RUN 43 executed as an integer as follows:

will run program number 43 (if it 0 FAIL

exists). 1 PASS

Response Example: 0

If the program number does not exist would indicate that the last sequence
an Execute Error will be generated. program run failed.

:SEQ:LIST?
Returns a list of the sequence programs stored in the analyzer.

Parameters
None

Response
The program numbers separated by commas.

:SEQ:CLR
Clears all the sequence programs stored in the analyzer.
WARNING: This GPIB command will clear ALL the sequence data in the analyzer, use with
caution!

Parameters
None

Response
None
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–51

HANDLER MODE

:HANdler
Select handler mode / path.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:HAN:TEST:RDC :HAN:TEST?
Select Rdc measurement. Impedance test query.

Parameters Parameters
None None

Response Response
None 2 Turns Ratio
1 Rdc
0 AC

:HAN:TEST:AC
Select AC measurement.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:HAN:TEST:RATIO
Select Turns Ratio measurement.

Parameters
None

Response
None
6–52 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:FREQuency <real> :HAN:FREQuency?

Set frequency. Frequency query.

Parameters Parameters
The required test frequency in Hertz. None
The unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional. Suffix
multipliers K, M, G may be used. Response
Example: :HAN:FREQ 1k Return the current test frequency in Hz
as floating point number.
:HAN:FREQ 1000 Hz
Example: 2.50E2
:HAN:FREQ 1E3
for a test frequency of 250Hz.
are all equivalent commands and set
the test frequency to 1kHz.

Response
None

:HAN:LEVel <real> :HAN:LEVel?

Set AC drive level. Returns the test level of the currently
selected test.
Parameters
Parameters:
Supply the required level in either
Volts or Amps. If no suffix is stated, None.
the previous type of drive is set.
Response:
Example: :HAN:LEV 1.2V
Returns the current test level in
:HAN:LEV 1E-2A
engineering format.
will select levels of 1.2V and 10mA
Example: +.20000000E-01
respectively.
for a test level of 20mV.
Response
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–53

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:BIAS <disc>
Set the bias condition.

Parameters:
ON Turn on bias.
OFF Turn off bias.
INT Select internal bias drive.
EEXT Select external bias drive.
Example: :HAN:BIAS INT
:HAN:BIAS ON
will select internal bias and turn it on.

Response:
None.

:HAN:BIAS? :HAN:BIAS-STATus?
Bias level query. Returns the current bias status.

Parameters Parameters:
None None.

Response Response:
Returns the bias as a floating point Returns bias status in two integers
number. delimited by a comma:
First integer: 0 Bias OFF.
1 Bias ON.
Second integer: 0 Internal bias.
1 External bias.
Example: 1,0
would indicate that internal bias is
turned on.
6–54 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:SPEED <disc> :HAN:SPEED?

Select the required measurement speed. Measurement speed query.

Parameters: Parameters:
MAX Maximum speed. None.
FAST Fast speed.
Response:
MED Medium speed.
Returns the test speed as an integer
SLOW Slow speed. according to the table:
Example: :HAN:SPEED MAX 0 Maximum
will select maximum speed for 1 Fast
measurements.
2 Medium
Response: 3 Slow
None. Example: 1
indicates that Fast measurements are
selected.

:HAN:RANGE <disc> :HAN:RANGE?

Select the required measurement range. Range query.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following parameters are valid: None.
AUTO Auto-ranging.
Response:
HOLD Hold current range.
Returns the measurement range as an
1 to 7 Range 1 to 7 integer according to this table:
Example: :HAN:RANGE 1 0 Auto-ranging.
:HAN:RANGE AUTO 1-7 Current measurement range.
will select range 1 and auto-ranging Example: 0
respectively.
indicates that auto ranging is selected.
Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–55

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:ALC <disc> :HAN:ALC?

Select the state of Automatic Level ALC status query.
Correction.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response:
ON ALC on.
Returns the ALC state according to this
OFF ALC off.
table:
HOLD Hold current ALC level.
0 OFF.
Example: :HAN:ALC OFF
1 ON.
will turn off ALC.
2 HOLD.
Response: Example: 2
None. indicates that ALC is currently held.

:HAN:EQU-CCT <disc> :HAN:EQU-CCT?

Select the equivalent circuit type for AC Returns the currently selected equivalent
tests. circuit.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following parameters are valid: None.
SER Series equivalent circuit.
Response:
PAR Parallel equivalent circuit.
Returns the equivalent circuit flag
Example: :HAN:EQU-CCT SER according to this table:
will select series equivalent circuit. 0 Parallel.
1 Series.
Response:
Example: 0
None.
indicates that parallel equivalent circuit
is selected.
6–56 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:FUNC:L, C, Z, Q, D, R
Select major and minor terms.

Parameters
Selecting first measurement:
:HAN:FUNC:L Inductance.
:HAN:FUNC:C Capacitance.
:HAN:FUNC:Z Impedance.
Selecting second measurement:
:HAN:FUNC:Q Quality factor.
:HAN:FUNC:D Dissipation factor.
:HAN:FUNC:R Resistance.
Note that selecting Z as the first measurement will force the second measurement to be
Angle. This does not change the equivalent circuit flag setting.
Example: :HAN:FUNC:L;Q
will select L+Q measurements.

Response
None
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–57

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:FUNC:MAJOR? :HAN:FUNC:MINOR?
Major term query. Minor term query.

Parameters: Parameters:
None. None.

Response: Response:
Returns the measurement type Returns the measurement type
according to this table: according to this table:
0 Inductance. 0 Q-Factor.
1 Capacitance 1 D-Factor.
2 Impedance. 2 Resistance.
Example: 2 Example: 1
indicates that the major term is indicates that the minor term is
impedance (Z). dissipation factor (D). Note that if the
first measurement is polar (Z), this
query will return the last non-polar
setting.

:HAN:FUNC:NS/NP
Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns/Np measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None

:HAN:FUNC:NP/NS
Select the display of Turns Ratio Np/Ns measurement.

Parameters
None.

Response
None
6–58 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:FUNC:NS <real> :HAN:FUNC:NP?

Select the display of Turns Ratio Ns Np query.
measurement.
Parameters
Parameters
None.
<value> is decimal numeric data to
specify the number of turns of Np. Response
Example: :HAN:FUNC:NS 1 Returns the value of Np as floating
point number.
will set Np to 1 turn.

Response
None

:HAN:CLRLCD
Clear the LCD Display.

Parameters
None

Response
None

:HAN:XCURSOR <integer>
Set X cursor pixel position.

Parameters
An integer in the range 0 to 319.
Example: :HAN:XCURSOR 20
will set the X cursor position 20 pixels from the left of the LCD screen.

Response
None
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–59

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:YCURSOR <integer>
Set Y cursor pixel position.

Parameters
An integer in the range 0 to 239.
Example: :HAN:YCURSOR 60
will set the Y cursor position 60 pixels from the top of the LCD screen.

Response
None

:HAN:DISP-SMALL <string>
Display string in small characters at current cursor position.

Parameters
Any alphanumeric character may be used within the string. Upper case characters only.
Example: :HAN:DISP-SMALL THIS IS A LOWER CASE STRING
will display ‘this is a lower case string’ at the current cursor position.

:HAN:DISP-LARGE <string>
Display string in large characters at current cursor position.

Parameters
Any alphanumeric character may be used within the string. Upper case characters only.
Example: :HAN:DISP-LARGE THIS IS AN UPPER CASE STRING
will display ‘THIS IS AN UPPER CASE STRING’ at the current cursor position.
6–60 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

HANDLER MODE

:HAN:RATio-CORRection <disc> :HAN:RATio-CORRection?

Select the type of transformer for turns Ratio correction query.
ratio correction.
Parameters:
Parameters
None.
The following parameters are valid:
Response
OFF Normal transformer with
low primary impedance. Returns the turns ratio correction status
according to this table:
NORM Normal transformer with
primary impedance >50Ω. 0 OFF

AUTO Auto transformer (common 1 NORM

connection between one end 2 AUTO
of primary and secondary
windings) Example: 0
indicates that turns ratio correction is
Response OFF.
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–61

TELECOMS MODE

:TELecom
Select telecommunications transformer test mode / path.

Parameters:
None

Response:
None

:TELecom:FREQuency <real> :TELecom:FREQuency?

Set the telecom test frequency. Query the telecom test frequency.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. None.
The unit descriptor ‘HZ’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :TEL:FREQ 1E3 HZ
The test frequency in engineering
set the telecom test frequency to 1kHz. format.
Example: +.80000000E+03
Response:
indicating a test frequency of 800Hz.
None.

:TELecom:NETwork :TELecom:NETwork?
Set the damping network state. Query the damping network state.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required state. None
ON or OFF
Response:
Example: :TEL:NET ON
0 = Network is OFF
turns on the damping network.
1 = Network is ON
Response:
None.
6–62 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TELECOMS MODE

:TELecom:BLOCK
Turn on and off the blocking capacitor in the damping network.

Parameters:
The required state.
ON or OFF
Example: :TEL:BLOCK OFF
turns off the damping network.

Response:
None.

:TELecom:Z0 <real> :TELecom:Z0?

Set the telecom test line impedance value. Query the telecom test line impedance.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required value in Ohms. None.
Example: :TEL:Z0 600
Response:
sets the line impedance to 600Ω.
The line impedance in engineering
format.
Response:
Example: +.60000000E+03
None.
indicating a line impedance of 600Ω.

:TELecom:Rt <real> :TELecom:Rt?

Set the telecom test termination resistor Query the telecom test termination resistor.
value.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required resistor value in Ohms.
Response:
Example: :TEL:RT 500
The termination resistor value in
sets the termination resistor to 500Ω.
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.450000000E+03
None. indicating a termination of 450Ω.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–63

TELECOMS MODE

:TELecom:Ct <real> :TELecom:Ct?

Set the telecom test termination capacitor Query the telecom test termination
value. capacitor.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required capacitor value in Farads. None.
Example, :TEL:CT 1E-9
Response:
sets the termination capacitor to 1nF.
The termination capacitor value in
engineering format.
Response:
Example, +.470000000E-10
None.
indicating a termination of 47pF.

:TELecom:Cd <real> :TELecom:Cd?

Set the telecom test damping network Query the telecom test damping network
capacitor value. capacitor.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required capacitor value in Farads. None.
Example: :TEL:CD 47E-10
Response:
sets the damping capacitor to 4.7nF.
The damping capacitor value in
engineering format.
Response:
Example: +.470000000E-9
None.
indicating a damping capacitor value of
470pF.

:TELecom:Rd <real> :TELecom:Rd?

Set the telecom test damping network Query the telecom test damping network
resistor value. resistor.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required resistor value in Ohms. None.
Example: :TEL:RD 560
Response:
sets the damping resistor to 560Ω.
The damping resistor value in
engineering format.
Response:
Example: +.15000000E+03
None.
indicating a damping resistor value of
150Ω.
6–64 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

TELECOMS MODE

:TELecom:Cb <real> :TELecom:Cb?

Set the telecom test blocking capacitor Query the telecom test blocking capacitor.
value.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required capacitor value in Farads.
Response:
Example: :TEL:CB 47E-6
The capacitor value in engineering
sets the damping capacitor to 47µF.
format.
Response: Example: +.220000000E-04
None. indicating a blocking capacitor value
of 22µF.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–65

MULTI-FREQUENCY MODE

:MULTI
Select multi-frequency mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:SET
Switch to the multi-frequency set-up page.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:RUN
Switch to the multi-frequency run page.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:TEST :MULTI:TEST?
Select the frequency step to edit. Return the number of the step that is
currently being edited.
Parameters:
Parameters:
The frequency number in the range 0 to
7. None.
Example: :MULTI:TEST 0
Response:
will select the top frequency for editing
The frequency number in the range 0 to
7.
Response:
Example: 7
None.
would indicate the last frequency is
selected for editing.
6–66 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

MULTI-FREQUENCY MODE

:MULTI:FREQuency <real> :MULTI:FREQuency?

Set the frequency for the currently selected Returns the frequency of the currently
step. selected multi-frequency step.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: MEAS:FREQ 1k
Returns the current test frequency in
will set the selected frequency to 1kHz
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.10000000E+04
None. for a test frequency of 1kHz.

:MULTI:HIgh-LIMit <real> :MULTI:HIgh-LIMit?

Set the higher test limit of the currently Returns the high limit value of the
selected step. currently selected step.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required higher limit. None.
example: :BIN:HI-LIM 10.0
Response:
will set a high limit of 10% when
The high limit value in engineering
percentage limits are selected.
format.
Response: Example: +.50000000E+01
None. indicates a high limit of +5% when
percentage limits are selected.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–67

MULTI-FREQUENCY MODE

: MULTI:LOw-LIMit <real> : MULTI:LOw-LIMit?

Set the lower test limit of the currently Returns the low limit value of the currently
selected step. selected step.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required lower limit. None.
Example: :BIN:LO-LIM -10.0
Response:
will set a low limit of -10% when
The low limit value in engineering
percentage limits are selected.
format.
Response: Example: -.50000000E+01
None. indicates a high limit of -5% when
percentage limits are selected.

: MULTI:MINor <real> : MULTI:MINor?

Set the minor test limit of the currently Returns the minor limit value of the
selected multi-frequency step. currently selected step.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required limit. None.
Example: :BIN:MINOR 1.0
Response:
will set a low limit of 1.0 for the minor
The minor limit value in engineering
test.
format.
Response: Example: .10000000E+01
None. indicates a minor limit of 1.0.

:MULTI:NOMinal <real> :MULTI:NOMinal?

Set the multi-frequency nominal value. Returns the multi-frequency nominal value.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required nominal value, no unit is None.
required: the measurement mode unit is
used. Response:
Example :MULTI:NOM 33e-9 Returns the nominal in engineering
format.
will set a nominal value of 33nF.
Example: +.68000002E-07
Response:
would indicate a nominal of 68nF if
None. the measurement is capacitance.
6–68 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

MULTI-FREQUENCY MODE

:MULTI:LIMIT <disc> :MULTI:LIMIT?

Selects absolute or percentage limits Returns the current limits checking mode.
checking.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following discrete parameters are
valid: Response:
OFF No limits. 0 No limits.
ABS Absolute limits. 1 Absolute limits.
PERC Limits as a percentage of 2 Percentage limits.
nominal. Example: 1
Example: :MULTI:LIMIT PERC indicates that components will be
will set the test limits to a percentage tested against limits that are a
of the nominal value. percentage of the nominal value.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:DEL
Removes the current frequency.

Parameters:
The frequency number in the range 0 to 7
Example: MULTI:DEL 0
will delete the top frequency.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–69

MULTI-FREQUENCY MODE

:MULTI:SORT <disc>
Sorts the current frequency list into the required order.

Parameters:
The required sort order.
UP Ascending frequency.
DOWN Descending frequency.
Example: MULTI:SORT UP
will sort the frequencies in ascending order.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:TRIGger
Starts a run of multi-frequency measurements.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:MULTI:RES? <integer>
Query the result of the selected frequency step.

Parameters:
The frequency number in the range 0 to 7

Response:
The first and second result separated by a comma, if the result is being checked against
limits (absolute or percentage) the PASS/FAIL flag will prefix the result.
Examples: 1, +.68898363E-07, +.72168059E-04
would indicate a pass result on a 68nF capacitor.
+.68898363E-07, +.72168059E-04
would be the result if limits were not being checked.
6–70 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH
Select graphing mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:StarT <real> :GRAPH:StarT?

Set the start frequency for the sweep. Returns the start frequency of the sweep.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :GRAPH:ST 1k
Returns the start frequency in
will set the start frequency to 1kHz.
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.10000000E+05
None. for a start frequency of 10kHz.

:GRAPH:StoP <real> :GRAPH:StoP?

Set the stop frequency for the sweep. Returns the stop frequency of the sweep.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :GRAPH:SP 100k
Returns the stop frequency in
will set the stop frequency to 100kHz.
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.125000000E+06
None. for a start frequency of 125kHz.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–71

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:LOGF <disc> :GRAPH:LOGF?

Selects the frequency scale type. Returns the current frequency scale type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required scale type: None.
ON Logarithmic scale.
Response:
OFF Linear scale.
The current scale type:
Example: GRAPH:LOGF ON
1 Logarithmic scale.
will select the logarithmic frequency
0 Linear scale.
scale.
Example: 0
Response:
would indicate that the linear
None. frequency scale is selected.

:GRAPH:LOGY <disc> :GRAPH:LOGY?

Selects the flag for the measurement scale Returns the flag for the measurement scale
type. type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required scale type: None.
ON Logarithmic scale.
Response:
OFF Linear scale.
The current scale type:
Example: GRAPH:LOGY ON
1 Logarithmic scale.
will select the logarithmic scaling of
0 Linear scale.
the Y-axis (available for Z, Y only).
Example: 1
Response:
would indicate that logarithmic scaling
None. of the Y-axis will be used if Z or Y is
selected.
6–72 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:LIMIT <disc> :GRAPH:LIMIT?

Selects absolute or relative plotting. Returns the current graph plotting mode.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following discrete parameters are None.
valid:
Response:
ABS Absolute plot.
0 Absolute plotting.
PERC Plot as a percentage of
nominal. 1 Percentage plotting.
Example: :GRAPH:LIMIT ABS Example: 1

will select plotting of the absolute indicates that the graph will be plotted
measurement result. with the results calculated as a
percentage of the nominal value.
Response:
None.

:GRAPH:MarKer?
Returns the first and second measurement from the current marker position.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
The results in engineering format, separated by a comma.
Example: +.10666955E-06, +.11760951E+01
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–73

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:MarKerF <real> :GRAPH:MarKerF?

Move the marker to the frequency nearest Returns the current marker frequency.
to the supplied value.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required frequency in Hertz. The
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional. Response:
Example: GRAPH:MKF 10k Returns the marker frequency in
engineering format.
will move the marker to the point
nearest to 10kHz. Example: +.100000000E+04
for a marker frequency of 1kHz.
Response:
None.

:GRAPH:MAJor-LOw <real> :GRAPH:MAJor-LOw?

Set the Y-axis minimum for the first Query the current Y-axis minimum for the
measurement type on the graph. first measurement type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required start value. None.
Example: :GRAPH:MAJ-LO 10.0
Response:
will set the minimum to 10.
The current minimum in engineering
format.
Response:
Example: +.95000006E-04
None.
would indicate that the Y-axis will
start at 95µF for example.
6–74 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:MAJor-HIgh <real> :GRAPH:MAJor-High?

Set the Y-axis maximum for the first Query the current Y-axis maximum for the
measurement type on the graph. first measurement type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required maximum value. None.
Example: :GRAPH:MAJ-HI 1000.0
Response:
will set the end point to 1k.
The current maximum in engineering
format.
Response:
Example: +.105000006E-03
None.
would indicate that the Y-axis will stop
at 105µF for example.

:GRAPH:MINor-LOw <real> :GRAPH:MINor-LOw?

Set the Y-axis minimum for the second Query the current Y-axis minimum for the
measurement type. second measurement type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required minimum value. None.
Example: :GRAPH:MIN-LO 0.0
Response:
will set the minimum to zero.
The current minimum in engineering
format.
Response:
Example: +.100000000E-01
None.
would indicate that the Y-axis will
start at 1Ω for example.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–75

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:MINor-HIgh <real> :GRAPH:MINor-High?

Set the Y-axis maximum for the second Query the current Y-axis maximum for the
measurement type on the graph. second measurement type.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required maximum. None.
Example: :GRAPH:MAJ-HI 100.0
Response:
will set the end point to 100Ω for
The current maximum in engineering
example.
format.
Response: Example: +.100000000E+02
None. would indicate that the Y-axis will stop
at 10Ω for example.

:GRAPH:NOMinal <real> :GRAPH:NOMinal?

Set the nominal value for use when graphs Returns the current graph nominal.
are being plotted in percentage mode.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required nominal value, no unit is
required: the unit of the first Response:
measurement type is used. Returns the nominal in engineering
Example :GRAPH:NOM 150e-12 format.
will set a nominal value of 150pF. Example: +.15000000E-09
would indicate a nominal of 150pF for
Response:
example.
None.
6–76 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:TERM <integer> :GRAPH:TERM?

Set which measurement will be shown/viewed. Query the current measurement selection.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following values are valid: None.
st
1 Plot 1 measurement.
Response:
nd
2 Plot 2 measurement.
1 1st measurement.
Response: 2 2nd measurement.
None. Example: 2
would, for example, indicate that the
Angle measurement would be
displayed if the selected measurements
were Z+Angle.

:GRAPH:STEP <integer> :GRAPH:STEP?

Select the number of pixels between each Query the current step size for the plot.
measured point on the graph.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The following values are valid:
Response:
Step
Value Size The step size in pixels.
1 1 (Slowest, Most accurate) Example: 4
2 2 would indicate that a measurement will
be taken every 4 pixels when the graph
3 4
is plotted.
4 8 (Fastest, Most interpolated)
Example: GRAPH:STEP 3
would set the plot to take a
measurement at every 4 pixels on the
graph and interpolate between them.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–77

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:SET
Go to the graph mode set-up page.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:VIEW
Redraw the graph. This command is useful for viewing the graph after switching between the
two measurements, without plotting the graph again fully. Otherwise the display would be left
in the set-up page.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:FIT
Fit the Y-axis scale to the current measurement data.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:TRIG
Start plotting a graph with the current settings.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.
6–78 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:PEAK
Move the marker to the highest point on the current graph.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:DIP
Move the marker to the lowest point on the current graph.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:GRAPH:PRINT
Print the current graph on an Epson compatible printer.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–79

GRAPH MODE

:GRAPH:TEST <disc> :GRAPH:TEST?

Set the test type. Query the test type.

Parameters Parameters
The required test type: None.
1 Impedance
Response
2 Transformer
The required test type:
Example: :GRAPH:TEST 2
1 Impedance
will select transformer measurements.
2 Transformer
Response
None.

:GRAPH:TYPE <disc> :GRAPH:TYPE?

Set the sweep parameter. Query the sweep parameter.

Parameters Parameters
The required sweep type: None.
1 Frequency
Response
2 Level
3 Internal Bias The selected sweep parameter:
4 External Bias (BOOST) 1 Frequency
Example: :GRAPH:TYPE 1 2 Level
3 Internal Bias
will select a frequency sweep.
4 External Bias
6–80 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

RESONANCE MODE

:RESOnance
Enter resonance mode / path.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:RESOnance:StarT <real> :RESOnance:StarT?

Set the start frequency for the search. Returns the start frequency of the search.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :RESO:ST 1k
Returns the start frequency in
Would set the search to start at 1kHz.
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.10000000E+05
None. For a start frequency of 10kHz.

:RESOnance:StoP <real> :RESOnance:StoP?

Set the stop frequency for the search. Returns the stop frequency of the search.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required frequency in Hertz. The None.
unit suffix ‘Hz’ is optional.
Response:
Example: :RESO:SP 1k
Returns the stop frequency in
Would set the search to stop at 1kHz.
engineering format.
Response: Example: +.10000000E+05
None. For a stop frequency of 10kHz.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–81

RESONANCE MODE

:RESOnance:EQU-CCT <disc> :RESOnance:EQU-CCT?

Select the equivalent circuit type for Returns the currently selected equivalent
resonance search. circuit.

Parameters: Parameters:
The following parameters are valid: None.
SER Series resonance.
Response:
PAR Parallel resonance.
Returns the equivalent circuit state
Example: :RESO:EQU-CCT SER according to this table:
will select the series resonance search. 0 Parallel.
1 Series.
Response:
Example: 0
None.
indicates the parallel resonance
search circuit is selected.

:RESOnance:TRIG
Begin a resonance search.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
Returns the resonant frequency, capacitance, inductance, resistance and Q all separated by
commas.
Example: +.77534195E+06, +.47321000E-05, +.89043000E-08,
+.19562000E-02, +.221748E+02
indicating a resonant frequency of 775.342kHz with equivalent series values at resonance
of 4.7321µF, 8.904nH, 1.956mΩ and a Q value of 22.175.
6–82 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

DEMAG MODE

:DEMAG
Select demagnetization mode / path.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:DEMAG:FREQuency <real> :DEMAG:FREQuency?

Set demagnetization frequency Demagnetization frequency query.

Parameters Parameters
The required frequency in Hz. None.
Example: :DEMAG:FREQ 100
Response
will set a de-magnetization frequency
Returns the demagnetization frequency
of 100Hz.
in engineering format.
Response Example: +.10000000+03
None. for a frequency of 100Hz.

:DEMAG:LEVel <real> :DEMAG:LEVel?

Set the demagnetization initial level. Demagnetization level query

Parameters Parameters
The required level in volts or amps. None.
Example: :DEMAG:LEV 2.0V
Response
:DEMAG:LEV 0.02A
Returns the demagnetization level in
will select drive levels of 2V and engineering format.
20mA respectively.
Example: +.10000000+01
for a level of 1V.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–83

DEMAG MODE

:DEMAG:TRIG
Start demagnetization

Parameters
None.

Response
None.
6–84 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

CALIBRATE MODE

:CAL
Select calibrate mode / path.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:CAL:OC-TRIM <integer>
Perform open circuit trimming.

Parameters:
The required trim type.
1 Spot trim.
2 Up to 10kHz.
3 Up to 100kHz.
4 All frequency.
Example: :CAL:OC-TRIM 4
would perform an open circuit trim across the whole frequency range of the unit.

Response:
None.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–85

CALIBRATE MODE

:CAL:SC-TRIM <integer>
Perform short circuit trimming.

Parameters:
The required trim type.
1 Spot trim.
2 Up to 10kHz.
3 Up to 100kHz.
4 All frequency.
Example: :CAL:SC-TRIM 1
would perform a short circuit trim at the current frequency.

Response:
None.

:CAL:HF-CAL
Perform HF lead compensation.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:CAL:SELF-CAL
Perform self-calibration; disconnect all BNCs from the instrument terminals before using this
command.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.
6–86 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

CALIBRATE MODE

:CAL:RES?
Returns the result of the most recent trim or calibration performed.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
The trim flag:
1 Calibration passed.
0 Calibration failed.
Example: 1
would indicate that the last trim or calibration was successful.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–87

ROOT COMMANDS

:TRIGger
Trigger a measurement in the current mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
The measurement result depending on the mode.

:LOC-TRIG <disc> :LOC-TRIG?

Select local trigger condition. When local Query the local trigger condition.
trigger is ON the trigger button on the front
panel can be used to take a measurement, Parameters:
all other functions being under remote None.
control.
Response:
Parameters:
The local trigger flag:
ON Enable local trigger.
1 Local trigger enabled.
OFF Disable local trigger.
0 Local trigger disabled.
Example: :LOC-TRIG ON
will allow triggering from the front
panel.

Response:
None.
6–88 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

ROOT COMMANDS

:REPeat <disc> :Repeat?

Enable repetitive measurements when unit Query trigger status.
is returned to local control.
Parameters:
Parameters:
None.
The required state:
Response:
ON Repetitive
The selected trigger mode.
OFF Single shot
0 Single shot
Example: REP ON
1 Repetitive
will set the unit to repetitive mode
when it is returned to local control. Example: 1
would indicate that the instrument
Response:
will begin repetitive measurements
None. when returned to local control.

:TERMinal <integer> :TERMinal?

Select 2 or 4 terminal measurements. Query the current terminal setting.

Parameters: Parameters:
The required mode: None.
2 2-Terminal.
Response:
4 4-Terminal.
The current setting:
Example: :TERM 4
2 2-Terminal.
will select 4 terminal measurement.
4 4-Terminal.
Response: Example: :TERM 4
None. will select 4 terminal measurement.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–89

ROOT COMMANDS

:SETUP <disc> :SETUP?

Select set-up view ON and OFF. GPIB Query the current set-up mode.
commands that change the test settings will
be slightly faster with the set-up display Parameters:
off. None.

Parameters: Response:
The required mode: The set-up condition:
ON Show set-up. 1 Set-up displayed.
OFF Hide set-up. 0 Set-up hidden.
Example: :SETUP OFF Example: 1
will turn off the set-up display. would indicate that the set-up is
visible.
Response:
None.

:FAST-GPIB <disc> :FAST-GPIB?

Select fast GPIB mode, in this mode all Query fast GPIB mode.
measurement results are returned in a raw
unformatted format and without displaying Parameters:
the result. Measurement time is reduced None.
when using this mode.
Response:
Parameters:
The current fast GPIB setting:
The required mode:
1 Fast GPIB operation.
ON Enable fast GPIB.
0 Normal GPIB operation.
OFF Disable fast GPIB.
Example: 1
Example: :FAST-GPIB ON
would indicate that fast GPIB is
will turn on fast GPIB operation. selected.

Response:
None.
6–90 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

ROOT COMMANDS

:MODE?
Query the currently selected operating mode.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
The current mode:
0 Main menu
1 Impedance
2 Transformer
3 Calibrate
4 Insulation
5 Binning
6 Sequence Edit
7 Sequence Run
8 Handler
9 Telecoms
10 Multi Freq
11 Graph
12 Resonance
13 Demag
14 Cal Status
15 Settings
Example: 1
would indicate that Impedance Mode is selected.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–91

ROOT COMMANDS

:DUMP-BMP
Returns the display as a windows compatible bitmap. The data conforms to IEEE 488.2 or
SCPI ‘Indefinite Length Arbitrary Block Response Data’.

Parameters:
None.

Response:
None.

:DE-MAG <disc> :DE-MAG?

Set demagnetization function state. Query demagnetization status.

Parameters Parameters
The required demagnetization state: None.
ON Enable demagnetization function.
Response
OFF Disable demagnetization function.
The selected demagnetization status.
Example: :DE-MAG ON
0 OFF
will turn on the demagnetization function.
1 ON
Response
None.

:LO-MAG <disc> :LO-MAG?

Set low magnetization function state. Query low magnetization status.

Parameters Parameters
The required low magnetization state: None.
ON Enable low magnetization function.
Response
OFF Disable low magnetization function.
The selected low magnetization state:
Example: :LO-MAG ON
0 OFF
will turn on the low magnetization
1 ON
function.

Response
None.

6.3 Example Programs

6–92 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

The following examples are written for Microsoft QuickBasic 4.5 running on a PC with a
National Instruments GPIB controller. The programs are short and can be readily converted to
another language/platform as their function is primarily to illustrate the use of the instrument
GPIB commands.

Example 1:
Simple identification query, use this program to establish that the GPIB configuration is
correct.

Example 2:
Simple measurement program. This program triggers a single AC measurement and
displays the result.

Example 3:
Simple querying example. This program interrogates the instrument and display the current
values for a number of AC measurement settings.

Example 4:
Multi-frequency example for AC tests. This program sets up a 4-measurement multi-
frequency test and displays the results from a single trigger.

Example 5:
Performs a graphical sweep of impedance from 20-400kHz and finds the lowest impedance
value. It also takes a screenshot of the graph to a file.
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–93

6.3.1 Example 1

' **************************************************************
'
' Program 1 : Simple GPIB operation check Version 1.0
'
' Platform : QuickBasic 4.5
'
' Description :
'
' This program will ask the instrument to identify itself.
' It assumes the instrument is called 'WK' in the National
' Instruments configuration.
'
' **************************************************************

' $INCLUDE: 'QBDECL.BAS' ' National Instruments include file.

buf$ = SPACE$(200) ' Buffer for GPIB response.

CLS ' Clear the screen

CALL IBFIND("WK", wk%) ' Look for 'WK'

IF wk% < 0 THEN ' Check that the id was found.

PRINT "Identifier 'WK' not found"
PRINT "Please check your configuration."
END
END IF

CALL IBCLR(wk%) ' Clear the device.

IF IBSTA% < 0 THEN ' Check for a problem.
PRINT "Error clearing instrument"
PRINT "Please check you configuration."
END
END IF

CALL IBWRT(wk%, "*IDN?") ' Request identification.

IF IBSTA% < 0 THEN ' Check for a problem.
PRINT "Error writing to instrument"
PRINT "Please check that the instrument"
PRINT "is powered, set to the correct"
PRINT "GPIB address and the cable is"
PRINT "securely connected."
END
END IF

CALL IBRD(wk%, BUF$) ' Read the response.

IF IBSTA% < 0 THEN ' Check for a problem.
PRINT "Error reading from instrument"
PRINT "Please check the device configuration"
END
END IF

PRINT buf$ ' Display the response.

END ' The end.

6–94 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

6.3.2 Example 2

' **************************************************************
'
' Program 2 : Simple Measurement Version 1.0
'
' Platform : QuickBasic 4.5
'
' Description :
'
' This program will set-up and run a single Z+Angle measurement
' on a component.
' This program assumes that the GPIB configuration is correct
' enough to be able to run example program 1 correctly.
'
' **************************************************************
' $INCLUDE: 'QBDECL.BAS' ' National Instruments include file.
CLS ' Clear the screen.

' Initialise the GPIB

CALL IBFIND("WK", wk%) ' Look for 'WK'.
CALL IBCLR(wk%) ' Clear the device.

' Select the required operating mode

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP") ' Go to measurement mode.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:Z") ' Select Z+Angle.

' Set-up measurement conditions.

' Level = 100mV Freq = 10kHz
' Alc = Off Speed = Medium
' Range = AUTO Bias = Off
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:LEVEL 0.1; FREQ 1E4; ALC OFF; SPEED MED")
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:RANGE AUTO; BIAS OFF")

' Perform the measurement.

buf$ = SPACE$(200) ' Prepare buffer for GPIB response.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, "TRIG") ' Trigger a measurement.
CALL IBRD(wk%, buf$) ' Read in the response.
buf$ = LEFT$(buf$, ibcnt% - 1) ' Remove trailing characters.

' The next piece of code extracts the numbers from

' the response so that they can be manipulated.
first = VAL(LEFT$(buf$, INSTR(buf$, ",") - 1))
second = VAL(RIGHT$(buf$, LEN(buf$) - INSTR(buf$, ",") - 1))

' Display the final result.

PRINT " Z = "; first
PRINT "Angle = "; second

END ' The end.

 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–95

6.3.3 Example 3

DECLARE FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)

' **************************************************************
'
' Program 3 : Querying the instrument state Version 1.0
'
' Platform : QuickBasic 4.5
'
' Description :
'
' This program will use queries to find out the current settings
' of the unit.
' This program assumes that the GPIB configuration is correct
' enough to be able to run example program 1 correctly.
'
' **************************************************************
' $INCLUDE: 'QBDECL.BAS' ' National Instruments include file.
CLS ' Clear the screen.

' Initialise the GPIB

CALL IBFIND("WK", wk%) ' Look for 'WK'.
CALL IBCLR(wk%) ' Clear the device.

' Select the required operating mode

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP") ' Go to measurement mode.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:AC") ' Select AC measurements.

' Start querying

alc = VAL(GPIBQuery$(wk%, ":IMP:ALC?")) ' Query the ALC setting.
freq = VAL(GPIBQuery$(wk%, ":IMP:FREQ?")) ' Query the AC frequency.
level = VAL(GPIBQuery$(wk%, ":IMP:LEV?")) ' Query the AC level.
range = VAL(GPIBQuery$(wk%, ":IMP:RANGE?")) ' Query the range.
speed = VAL(GPIBQuery$(wk%, ":IMP:SPEED?")) ' Query the speed.

' Print the status of the major settings.

PRINT "AC Frequency ="; freq; "Hz" ' Print the AC frequency.

PRINT "AC Drive level ="; level; "V" ' Print the AC level.

PRINT "AC Range ="; ' Print the AC range.

IF range = 0 THEN
PRINT " AUTO"
ELSE
PRINT range
END IF

PRINT "ALC = "; ' Print the ALC condition.

IF alc = 0 THEN
PRINT "OFF"
ELSE
PRINT "ON"
END IF

PRINT "SPEED = "; ' Print the test speed.

SELECT CASE speed
CASE 3
PRINT "SLOW"
CASE 2
PRINT "MEDIUM"
CASE 1
PRINT "FAST"
CASE 0
6–96 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

PRINT "MAX"
END SELECT

END ' The end.

' This function sends the supplied query to the instrument

' and reads back the reply and strips the trailing characters
FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)
buf$ = SPACE$(80) ' Initialise the buffer.
CALL IBWRT(id%, Query$) ' Query the level
CALL IBRD(id%, buf$) ' Read in the response.
GPIBQuery$ = LEFT$(buf$, ibcnt% - 1) ' Remove trailing characters.
END FUNCTION
 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) 6–97

6.3.4 Example 4

DECLARE FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)

' **************************************************************
'
' Program 4 : Multi-frequency mode Version 1.0
'
' Platform : QuickBasic 4.5
'
' Description :
'
' This program sets up and runs a simple 4 frequency measurement
' in Multi-frequency mode
'
' **************************************************************
' $INCLUDE: 'QBDECL.BAS' ' National Instruments include file.
CLS ' Clear the screen.

' Initialise the GPIB

CALL IBFIND("WK", wk%) ' Look for 'WK'.
CALL IBCLR(wk%) ' Clear the device.

' Set-up the AC test parameters

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP") ' Measurement mode
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:AC") ' Select AC measurements.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:C;D") ' Select C+D measurements.

' Go to multi-frequency mode

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI") ' Multi-frequency mode
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:SET") ' Multi-frequency set-up

' Set-up frequency steps

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:TEST 0; FREQ 1k") ' Step 1
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:TEST 1; FREQ 2k") ' Step 2
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:TEST 2; FREQ 5k") ' Step 3
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:TEST 3; FREQ 10k") ' Step 4

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:LIMIT OFF") ' No limit checking

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":MULTI:RUN; TRIG") ' Go to RUN mode and start

PRINT GPIBQuery(wk%, ":MULTI:RES? 0") ' Get result 1

PRINT GPIBQuery(wk%, ":MULTI:RES? 1") ' Get result 2
PRINT GPIBQuery(wk%, ":MULTI:RES? 2") ' Get result 3
PRINT GPIBQuery(wk%, ":MULTI:RES? 3") ' Get result 4

END ' The end!

' This function sends the supplied query to the instrument

' and reads back the reply and strips the trailing characters
FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)
buf$ = SPACE$(80) ' Initialise the buffer.
CALL IBWRT(id%, Query$) ' Query the level
CALL IBRD(id%, buf$) ' Read in the response.
GPIBQuery$ = LEFT$(buf$, ibcnt% - 1) ' Remove trailing characters.
END FUNCTION
6–98 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)

6.3.5 Example 5

DECLARE FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)

' **************************************************************
'
' Program 5 : Graph mode Version 1.0
'
' Platform : QuickBasic 4.5
'
' Description :
'
' This program sets up and plots a graph of the characteristic
' of a 4.7uF capacitor.
' At the end it takes a screenshot which is in windows bitmap
' format (.BMP) and can be viewed in MS Paint (Win 9X).
'
' **************************************************************
' $INCLUDE: 'QBDECL.BAS' ' National Instruments include file.
CLS ' Clear the screen.

' Initialise the GPIB

CALL IBFIND("WK", wk%) ' Look for 'WK'.
CALL IBCLR(wk%) ' Clear the device.
CALL IBTMO(14) ' 30 Second timeout for graph drawing.

' Set-up the AC test parameters

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP") ' Measurement mode.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:AC") ' Select AC measurements.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:FUNC:Z") ' Plot impedance.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":IMP:SPEED MAX") ' As fast as possible.

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH") ' Enter GRAPH mode.

CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:ST 20;SP 400k") ' Sweep 20Hz-500kHz.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:LOGY ON; LOGF ON") ' Log-Log plot.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:TERM 1") ' Plot Z.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:STEP 2") ' Step size 4.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:MAJ-LO 1e-3") ' Y start 1mOhm.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:MAJ-HI 1k") ' Y stop 1kOhm.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:TRIG;FIT") ' Plot the graph and fit scale.
CALL IBWRT(wk%, ":GRAPH:DIP") ' Find the low point.

' Take a screenshot.

PRINT "Taking screenshot."
CALL IBWRT(wk%, "DUMP-BMP") ' Request data.
CALL IBRDF(wk%, "GRAPH.BMP") ' Read to file.
PRINT "Done!"

END ' The end!

' This function sends the supplied query to the instrument

' and reads back the reply and strips the trailing characters
FUNCTION GPIBQuery$ (id%, Query$)
buf$ = SPACE$(80) ' Initialise the buffer.
CALL IBWRT(id%, Query$) ' Query the level
CALL IBRD(id%, buf$) ' Read in the response.
GPIBQuery$ = LEFT$(buf$, ibcnt% - 1) ' Remove trailing characters.
END FUNCTION
 Specification 7–1

7. SPECIFICATION

7.1 Measurement Functions

Any of the following parameters may be measured and displayed.

7.1.1 IMPEDANCE MODE

DC Resistance
AC Parameters
Series or Parallel Equivalent Circuit: C+R, C+D, C+Q, L+R, L+D, L+Q
Polar Form: Z + angle

7.1.2 HANDLER MODE

DC Resistance
AC Parameters
Series or Parallel Equivalent Circuit: C+R, C+D, C+Q, L+R, L+D, L+Q
Polar Form: Z + angle

7.1.3 TRANSFORMER MODE

DC Resistance:
Primary or Secondary Windings.
AC Parameters:
Primary L+Q
Primary Leakage Inductance
Secondary Leakage Inductance
Interwinding Capacitance (Pri-Sec)
Turns Ratio:
Np/Ns, Ns/Np and Ns with Np entered before measurement.

7.1.4 RESONANCE MODE

Frequency, L, R and Q for series or parallel circuits.
Results may be extrapolated if resonance is not found within frequency range specified.

7.1.5 DEMAGNETISATION MODE

Enables a component to be demagnetized.

7.1.6 INSULATION MODE (Option)

Pri-Sec, Pri-Gnd, Sec-Gnd.
7–2 Specification

7.1.7 BINNING MODE

L + Q (Pri)
L + R (Pri)
L + R (Sec)
C + D (Pri)
Z + θ (Pri)
Ns/Np (Sec)
Leakage L (Pri)
Leakage L (Sec)
Cs-p (Sec-Pri)
Rdc (Pri)
Rdc (Sec)
Ns (Sec)
Ins (Pri-Sec)—requires Insulation Option
Ins(Pri-GND)—requires Insulation Option
Ins(Sec-GND)—requires Insulation Option

7.1.8 SEQUENCE MODE

L + Q (Pri)
L + R (Pri)
L + R (Sec)
C + D (Pri)
Z + θ (Pri)
Ns/Np (Sec)
Ns (Sec)
Leakage L (Pri)
Leakage L (Sec)
Cs-p (Sec-Pri)
Rdc (Pri), Rdc (Sec)
Ins (Pri-Sec)—requires Insulation Option
Ins(Pri-GND)—requires Insulation Option
Ins(Sec-GND)—requires Insulation Option

7.1.9 LF TELECOM (Option)

Simple Insertion and Return Loss (derived)
Damped Insertion and Return Loss (derived)

7.2 Additional Measurement Facilities

7.2.1 2/4 Terminal

Measurements may be made in two- or four-terminal mode, with selection via a front panel key.
 Specification 7–3

7.2.2 Transformer Ratio Correction

Ratio measurement correction is available for normal or auto transformers to improve accuracy
when winding resistance is high.

7.2.3 Low Magnetization Measurement

Any AC measurement may be made using a low magnetization measurement option.
Measurements made will be slower than normal but changes to the characteristics of the device
under test, due to magnetization, will be minimized.

7.2.4 Measurement Speeds

Four selectable speeds for all measurement functions. Selecting slower measurement speeds
increases reading resolution and reduces measurement noise by averaging.

7.2.5 Repeat Measurement

Measurements may be made in single-shot or repetitive measurement modes, selected using a
front panel key.

7.2.6 Frequency Steps

Coarse or fine frequency steps are available.

7.3 Test Conditions

7.3.1 Measurement Range

R 0.01mΩ to >2GΩ ∗
L 0.1nH to >1000H *
C 5fF to >1F *
* Varies with measurement speed

7.3.2 Frequency (AC Measurements)

Accuracy of selected frequency ±0.01%.
Coarse step mode: 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, 200 repeated in each decade.
Fine step mode: >1800 frequencies between 20Hz and 3MHz with increments ≤1% over entire
range.

7.3.3 Drive Level

Source impedance: 50Ω
1mV to 10V rms into open circuit
50µA to 200mA rms into short circuit
ALC ensures level at DUT is ±2%, ±1mV of set voltage or ±2% ±0.1mA of set current
7–4 Specification

7.3.4 DC Bias Current (Impedance modes only)

1mA to 1A from internal DC bias supply over the full temperature range.
Accuracy of set current ±2% ±0.25mA
Voltage compliance 20V minimum.
Safety interlock provision.

7.3.5 Insulation (Option)

Selectable test voltages of 100, 200 or 500V DC.
For user safety, short circuit current is limited to <2mA.
Test voltage accuracy: ±1%.

7.3.6 LF Telecom (Option)

Frequency Range: 100Hz to 20kHz
Drive Level Setting: -28dBm to +16dBm (0.1dBm steps)
Line Impedance (Zo): 50Ω to 2000Ω
Secondary Termination: 50Ω to 2000Ω
Damping Components: 4 digit accuracy

7.4 Basic Accuracy

The following applies for medium or slow speeds, drive level 1V or 20mA.
Accuracy reduces for lower drive levels, or frequencies outside the quoted range.
At fast speed the same accuracy applies, except at 100Hz or for component values within 10:1
of the range limits quoted.

7.4.1 Rdc
0.2Ω to 500kΩ 0.5%

7.4.2 L, R, Z, C
Refer to the accuracy chart

7.4.3 Dissipation Factor (D)

±Ad (1 + D²) where Ad = (% accuracy)/100.
Varies with frequency and option chosen

7.4.4 Quality Factor (Q)

AL (Q + 1/Q) where AL = measurement accuracy.
 Specification 7–5

Varies with frequency and option chosen

7.4.5 Insulation (Option)

For leakage currents 0.5µA to 1mA ±5%
Corresponding resistance range at 500V = 500kΩ to 1GΩ

7.4.6 Insertion Loss (LF Telecom Option)

0 to 3dB ±0.1dB
3 to 6dB ±0.2dB

7.4.7 Return Loss (LF Telecom Option)

Specification applies if both Zo and Rt ≥150Ω.
Return loss accuracy is not guaranteed above 10kHz.
Uncertainties are doubled for Zo or Rt values down to 50Ω.
Frequency Range 200Hz to 5KHz
0 to 40dB ±1dB
Up to 45dB ±2dB
Up to 50dB ±3dB
Frequency Range 100 to 200Hz, or 5kHz to 10kHz
0 to 35dB ±2dB
7–6 Specification

7.4.8 Accuracy Chart

Medium or Slow Speed Bias off

L Accuracy Chart Minimum level = 200mV 20Hz to 250Hz
Impedance < 5Ω Minimum Level = 20mA
1000H

100H

10H

1%
1H

100mH

Inductance

10mH

1mH

2%
100µH

0.1%
10µH

0.2%

1µH 0.5%
1%
2%

0.1µH
100 1k 10k 100k 1M

Frequency (Hz)
 Specification 7–7

7.5 General Data

7.5.1 Power Supply

Input Voltage 115V AC ±10% or 230V AC ±10% (selectable)
Frequency 50/60Hz
VA rating 100VA
Input fuse rating 115V operation: 2AT
230V operation: 1AT
The input fuse is in the fuse holder drawer integral to the IEC input connector.

7.5.2 Display
High contrast black and white LCD module 320 x 240 dot with CFL back lighting and manual
contrast control. Visible area 115 x 86mm. Viewing angle 45°.

7.5.3 Measurement Connections

8 front panel BNC sockets.
Selectable 2- or 4-wire (Kelvin) measurements with screen at ground potential.
Separate terminals for primary and secondary connections.
Indication of active sockets.

7.5.4 Remote Control (Option)

Designed to GPIB (IEEE 488.2) and SCPI 1992.0.

7.5.5 Binning Interface (Option)

25-way D-type connector on rear panel provides dedicated output lines for each bin, with busy
and data ready handshake lines, separate pass/fail output that operates with the bar graph
function, and a trigger input. Outputs are 0 to 5V nominal with ≥10mA current sinking
capability. Trigger input is via contact closure or a negative logic edge (logic high = 4 to 5V).

7.5.6 Printer Output

Centronics parallel printer port on rear panel allows printing of test conditions, measurement
results and graphical display.

7.5.7 Environmental Conditions

This equipment is intended for indoor use only in a non-explosive, non-corrosive atmosphere.

Installation Category
II (in accordance with IEC664)
7–8 Specification

Temperature Range
Storage -40°C to +70°C
Operating 0°C to 40°C
Full Accuracy 15°C to 35°C

Relative Humidity
Up to 80% non-condensing.

Pollution Degree
2 (mainly non-conductive)

Altitude
Up to 2000m

7.5.8 Safety
Designed to meet the requirements of EN61010-1.

7.5.9 EMC
Complies with EN50081-1, EN50082-1 generic emissions and immunity standards by meeting
with the requirements of EN55022, IEC801.2, EN801.3 & IEC 801.

7.5.10 Mechanical
Height 150mm (6")
Width 440mm (17⅜")
Depth 520mm (20½")
Weight 11kg (24lb 4oz)

7.5.11 Accessories Supplied

AC power cable 2m.
User Manual.

7.5.12 Options and Accessories

Binning
Insulation Test
A range of test leads and fixtures
Rack mounting kit.
 Theory Reference 8–1

8. THEORY REFERENCE

8.1 Abbreviations
B Susceptance (= 1/X) R Resistance
C Capacitance X Reactance
D Dissipation factor (tan δ) Y Admittance (= 1/Z)
E Voltage Z Impedance
G Conductance (= 1/R) ω 2π x frequency
I Current
L Inductance Subscript s (s) = series
Q Quality (magnification) factor Subscript p (p) = parallel

8.2 Formulae
E
Z = (all terms complex)
I
I 1
Y = =
E Z
j
Z s = R + jX = R + jωL = R -
ωC

Zs = (R 2
+ X2 )

RX
Zp =
(R 2
+ X2 )

j
Yp = G + jB = G + jωC = G -
ωL

Yp = (G 2
+ B2 )

GB
Ys =
(G 2
+ B2 )

1 1
where XL = ωL XC = BC = ωC BL =
ωC ωL
ωL S 1
Q = = (series R, L, C values)
RS ωC S R S

RP
Q = = ωC P R P (parallel R, L, C values
ωL P

GP
D = = ωL P G P (parallel G, L, C values)
ωC P
8–2 Theory Reference

RS
D = = ωC S R S (series R, L, C values)
ωL S

1
Note : The value Q = is constant regardless of series/parallel convention
D

8.3 Series/Parallel Conversions

RP R P = R S (1 + Q 2 )
RS =
(1 + Q 2 )
CS
C S = C P (1 + D 2 ) CP =
(1 + D 2 )
LP  1 
LS = L P = L S 1 + 2 
 1   Q 
1 + 2 
 Q 
Conversions using the above formulae will be valid only at the test frequency.

8.4 Polar Derivations

R S = Z cosθ G P = Y cosθ

X S = Z sinθ B P = Y sinθ

Note that, by convention, +ve angle indicates an inductive impedance or capacitive admittance.
If capacitance is measured as inductance, the L value will be –ve.
If inductance is measured as capacitance, the C value will be –ve.
D = tan δ where δ = (90 – θ)˚ admittance measurement.
1
Q = where δ = (90 – θ)˚ impedance measurement.
tan δ
 Maintenance, Support and Services 9–1

9. MAINTENANCE, SUPPORT AND SERVICES

9.1 Guarantee
The equipment supplied by Wayne Kerr Electronics is guaranteed against defective material
and faulty manufacture for a period of twelve months from the date of dispatch. In the case of
materials or components employed in the equipment but not manufactured by us, we allow the
customer the period of any guarantee extended to us.
The equipment has been carefully inspected and submitted to comprehensive tests at the factory
prior to dispatch. If, within the guarantee period, any defect is discovered in the equipment in
respect of material or workmanship and reasonably within our control, we undertake to make
good the defect at our own expense subject to our standard conditions of sale. In exceptional
circumstances and at the discretion of the service manager, a charge for labour and carriage
costs incurred may be made.
Our responsibility is in all cases limited to the cost of making good the defect in the equipment
itself. The guarantee does not extend to third parties, nor does it apply to defects caused by
abnormal conditions of working, accident, misuse, neglect or wear and tear.

9.2 Maintenance

9.2.1 Cleaning
The body of the equipment can be cleaned with a damp lint-free cloth. Should it be required,
weak detergents can be used. No water must enter the equipment. Do not attempt to wash down
internal parts.

9.2.2 Safety Checks

Each year the equipment should be given a simple safety check.

9.2.2.1 Equipment required

25A ground bond tester (e.g. Megger PAT 2)
Insulation tester @ 500V DC (e.g. Megger BM 7)

9.2.2.2 Tests
1) DISCONNECT THE INSTRUMENT FROM THE AC POWER SUPPLY!
2) Inspect the unit and associated wiring for damage e.g. dents or missing parts which might
impair the safety or function of the equipment. Look for any signs of overheating or
evidence that objects might have entered the unit.
3) Ground Bond: Ensure that 25A DC can flow from exposed metal parts of the unit (not
BNC connector outers) to ground with an impedance of less than 100mΩ.
4) Insulation Test: Connect the Live and Neutral of the power cable together and test the
insulation between this point and the ground at 500V DC. Readings greater than 1MΩ are
acceptable.
9–2 Maintenance, Support and Services

9.3 Support and Service

In the event of difficulty, or apparent circuit malfunction, it is advisable to contact the service
department or your local sales engineer or agent (if overseas) for advice before attempting
repairs.
For repairs and recalibration it is recommended that the complete instrument be returned to one
of the following:

USA
Wayne Kerr Electronics Inc.
165L New Boston Street
Woburn MA 01801-1744
Tel: 781 938 8390
Fax: 781 933 9523
email: [email protected]
www.waynekerrtest.com

UK
Wayne Kerr Electronics
Vinnetrow Business Park
Vinnetrow Road
Chichester
West Sussex PO20 1QH
Tel: +44 (0)1243 792200
Fax: +44 (0)1243 792201
email: [email protected]
email: [email protected]
www.waynekerrtest.com

Asia
Microtest
14F-6, No.79, Hsin Tai Wu Road, Sec. 1,
Hsi-chih, Taipei 221, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Tel: +886-2-2698-4104
Fax: +886-2-2698-0716
Email: [email protected]
www.waynekerrtest.com

When returning the instrument please ensure adequate care is taken with packing and arrange
insurance cover against transit damage or loss. If possible re-use the original packing box.
INDEX
Abs % soft key..................................................................... 4–31, 5–19, 5–21, 5–38, 5–41, 5–45
AC meas ....................................................................................................................... 4–30, 4–32
Addresses ..................................................................................................................................... 2
Adjustment of variable components ................................................................................... 4–30
ALC .................................................................................. 4–34, 5–4, 5–6, 6–11, 6–14, 6–27, 7–3
Asterisk ...................................................................................................... 4–12, 4–27, 4–28, 5–7
Auto range ................................................................................................................... 4–33, 5–18
Automatic level control .................................................. 4–34, 5–4, 5–6, 6–11, 6–14, 6–27, 7–3
Bar graph display ..................................... 4–7, 4–30, 4–31, 5–33, 6–15, 6–30, 6–31, 6–32, 7–7
Battery operation .................................................................................................................... 3–1
Bias ................................................. 2–1, 4–2, 4–3, 4–6, 4–9, 4–11, 4–33, 5–44, 6–14, 6–26, 7–4
Bin handler ............................................................................................................................ 5–43
connector pin assignment .................................................................................................... 4–8
external ................................................................................................................................ 4–6
interface ............................................................................................................................... 4–6
Binning mode ...................................................................................................... 5–19, 6–43, 7–2
count .................................................................................................... 5–25, 6–16, 6–43, 6–48
count parameters................................................................................................................ 5–25
set......................................................................................................... 5–22, 6–16, 6–43, 6–44
set parameters .................................................................................................................... 5–22
sort ....................................................................................................... 5–24, 6–16, 6–43, 6–48
sort parameters................................................................................................................... 5–24
BNC
connectors............................................................................................................ 3–3, 5–1, 7–7
LEDs .................................................................................... 5–3, 5–6, 5–11, 5–16, 5–17, 5–18
Cal status page ...................................................................................................................... 5–55
Calibration
data................................................................................................................... 4–9, 4–13, 4–17
handler ..................................................................................................................... 4–23, 4–25
HF lead compensation ....................................................................................................... 4–13
self ............................................................................................. 4–13, 4–22, 4–23, 6–22, 6–85
status .......................................................................................... 5–54, 6–10, 6–11, 6–22, 6–86
trimming .................. 3–2, 4–11, 4–13, 4–26, 4–28, 5–5, 5–11, 5–14, 5–15, 5–16, 5–34, 5–53
Cleaning ................................................................................................................................... 9–1
Connections
active.................................................................................... 5–3, 5–6, 5–11, 5–16, 5–17, 5–18
aux AC out........................................................................................................................... 4–2
aux control out ..................................................................................................................... 4–2
aux in ................................................................................................................................... 4–2
BNC ............................................................................................................................. 3–3, 5–1
for transformer/telecoms measurements.............................................................................. 5–3
front panel............................................................................................................................ 5–1
for handler mode ................................................................................................................................4–23, 5–33
GPIB .................................................................................................................................... 4–2
handler ................................................................................................................................. 4–2
measurement ........................................................................................................................ 7–7
 parallel printer...................................................................................................................... 4–2
power cable .................................................................................................................. 1–2, 3–1
protocol ........................................................................................................................ 3–3, 5–1
for handler mode................................................................................................................................ 4–23, 5–33
for insulation mode...................................................................................................................................... 5–12
rear panel.............................................................................................................................. 4–2
safety interlock..................................................................................................................... 4–2
trigger in............................................................................................................................... 4–2
trimming................................................................. 4–16, 4–19, 4–23, 4–24, 5–11, 5–14, 5–16
two-, three, and four-terminal .............................................................................................. 5–2
Contrast control ...................................................................................................................... 4–9
Control keys........................................................................................................................... 4–12
Data entry keypad................................................................................................................. 4–16
key sequence examples ...................................................................................................... 4–15
DC bias current ............................. 2–1, 4–2, 4–3, 4–6, 4–9, 4–11, 4–33, 5–44, 6–14, 6–26, 7–4
DC drive level ........................................................................ 2–1, 4–30, 4–32, 5–10, 6–14, 6–25
Demag mode .......................................................................................................................... 5–51
Drive level ................................................................................................................................ 7–3
AC ........................................................................................ 2–1, 4–32, 5–3, 5–10, 6–14, 6–25
AC (for measurement of iron-cored and ferrite inductors).................................................. 5–5
DC ...................................................................................... 2–1, 4–30, 4–32, 5–10, 6–14, 6–25
insulation mode.................................................................................................................. 5–18
source impedance............................................................................................................... 4–34
telecoms mode ........................................................................................................... 5–36, 7–4
Examples
graph mode......................................................................................................................... 5–47
impedance mode ................................................................................................................ 4–28
insulation mode.................................................................................................................. 5–15
key sequences..................................................................................................................... 4–15
Multi freq mode ................................................................................................................. 5–38
programs ............................................................................................................................ 6–91
telecoms mode ................................................................................................................... 5–34
transformer mode ................................................................................................................. 5–7
External bin handler............................................................................................................... 4–6
External trigger ............................................................................................. 4–2, 4–3, 4–6, 4–27
Fixture
four-wire ........................................................ 4–23, 4–24, 4–25, 4–26, 5–2, 5–12, 5–14, 5–33
Four-wire scanner/fixture ................................ 4–23, 4–24, 4–25, 4–26, 5–2, 5–12, 5–14, 5–33
Frequency
coarse/fine steps......................................................................... 4–14, 4–32, 5–36, 5–51, 5–52
demag mode ....................................................................................................................... 5–51
for measurement of iron-cored and ferrite inductors ........................................................... 5–6
for measurement of very small inductors............................................................................. 5–5
high frequency operation ..................................................................................................... 3–3
impedance mode ................................................................................................................ 4–32
lead set recommendations .................................................................................................... 3–2
lin/log representation in graph mode ................................................................................. 5–44
measurement ...................................................................................................................... 4–32
 multi freq mode.................................................................................................................. 5–37
quantized steps in graph mode........................................................................................... 5–47
range .............................................................................................. 2–1, 4–32, 5–4, 5–36, 5–51
resonant.............................................................................................................................. 5–49
sorting in multi freq mode ................................................................................................. 5–41
supply................................................................................................................................... 3–1
supply frequency rejection ................................................................................................ 4–34
telecoms mode ................................................................................................................... 5–36
used for all freq trim .......................................................................................................... 4–25
used for spot trim............................................................................................................... 4–18
used for trimming .......................................................................................... 4–16, 4–18, 5–55
Front panel ............................................................................................................................ 4–16
connections .......................................................................................................................... 5–1
for handler mode ................................................................................................................................4–23, 5–33
LEDs .................................................................................... 5–3, 5–6, 5–11, 5–16, 5–17, 5–18
Fuse ratings ..................................................................................................................... 3–1, 7–7
GPIB
address ....................................................................................................................... 5–52, 6–2
connector pin assignment .................................................................................................... 4–5
Graph mode........................................................................................................................... 5–49
example.............................................................................................................................. 5–47
quantized frequency steps.................................................................................................. 5–47
set parameters .................................................................................................................... 5–47
Guarantee ................................................................................................................................ 9–1
Guard resistance ..................................................................................................................... 5–4
Handler mode........................................................................................................................ 5–33
calibration .......................................................................................................................... 4–23
HF lead compensation..................................................................................................................................4–25
O/C Trim and S/C Trim ...............................................................................................................................4–23
connections ........................................................................................................................ 4–24
HF lead compensation ...................................................................................... 4–16, 4–20, 4–25
Hide scale........................................................................................................... 4–30, 4–31, 6–30
Impedance mode ................................................................................................................... 4–29
example.............................................................................................................................. 4–28
parameters.......................................................................................................................... 4–30
In-circuit measurements ........................................................................................................ 5–4
guard resistance ................................................................................................................... 5–4
Insulation mode..................................................................................................................... 5–19
parameters.......................................................................................................................... 5–19
Keypad ................................................................................................................................... 4–16
key sequence examples...................................................................................................... 4–15
Maintenance .................................................................................................................... 1–2, 9–1
Measurement
2- / 4-terminal .......................................................................................................... 4–12, 5–53
connections
non-Wayne Kerr test leads and fixtures .........................................................................................................3–3
Wayne Kerr test leads and fixtures.................................................................................................................3–3
frequency ............................................................................................... 2–1, 4–32, 5–36, 5–51
 for measurement of iron-cored and ferrite inductors ..................................................................................... 5–6
for measurement of very small inductors....................................................................................................... 5–5
noise ................................................................................................................... 4–33, 5–3, 5–5
of a component................................................................................................................... 4–29
example ....................................................................................................................................................... 4–28
of air-cored coils .................................................................................................................. 5–5
of ferrite inductors ............................................................................................................... 5–6
of iron-cored inductors......................................................................................................... 5–6
of transformers ..................................................................................................................... 5–6
of very small capacitors ....................................................................................................... 5–5
of very small inductors......................................................................................................... 5–5
ranges ........................................................................................... 4–33, 4–35, 5–4, 5–18, 5–46
results ................................................................................................................................... 4–4
terms................................................................................................................................... 4–30
Messages
calibration ................................................................................................................ 4–21, 4–22
calibration data lost............................................................................................................ 4–22
cannot set level................................................................................................................... 4–34
current too large ................................................................................................................. 5–11
delete bin counts are you sure? ........................................................................................ 5–24
delete frequency are you sure?......................................................................................... 5–41
delete last result are you sure? ......................................................................................... 5–23
error message from an invalid keypad entry...................................................................... 4–13
handler factory cal lost default values used..................................................................... 4–25
HF lead compensation........................................................................................................ 4–20
HF lead compensation data lost ......................................................................................... 4–21
high voltage on......................................................................................................... 4–19, 5–14
nearest available................................................................................................................. 4–13
nearest drive level .............................................................................................................. 4–34
no action taken ................................................................................................................... 5–31
resonance not found extrapolate? .................................................................................... 5–50
self-calibration reminder.................................................................................................... 4–21
sequence run mode connection prompt.............................................................................. 5–32
sequence run mode failure ................................................................................................. 5–33
settings lost ........................................................................................................................ 4–17
unit not available...................................................................................................... 5–12, 5–22
Mode
binning ............................................................................................................................... 5–19
count............................................................................................................................................................ 5–25
count parameters.......................................................................................................................................... 5–24
set ................................................................................................................................................................ 5–22
set parameters .............................................................................................................................................. 5–20
sort............................................................................................................................................................... 5–24
sort parameters............................................................................................................................................. 5–22
demag................................................................................................................................. 5–51
parameters.................................................................................................................................................... 5–51
graph .................................................................................................................................. 5–49
example ....................................................................................................................................................... 5–47
 quantized frequency steps ............................................................................................................................5–47
handler ............................................................................................................................... 5–33
impedance .......................................................................................................................... 4–26
example ........................................................................................................................................................4–28
parameters ....................................................................................................................................................4–30
insulation ........................................................................................................................... 5–19
example ........................................................................................................................................................5–15
parameters ....................................................................................................................................................5–17
multi freq ........................................................................................................................... 5–43
example ........................................................................................................................................................5–38
parameters ....................................................................................................................................................5–41
run ................................................................................................................................................................5–43
set .................................................................................................................................................................5–41
repetitive ...................................................... 4–12, 4–14, 4–15, 4–27, 5–19, 5–23, 5–31, 5–53
resonance ........................................................................................................................... 5–50
sequence run ...................................................................................................................... 5–31
single shot .................................................... 4–12, 4–14, 4–15, 4–27, 5–11, 5–19, 5–23, 5–53
telecoms ............................................................................................................................. 5–37
example ........................................................................................................................................................5–34
parameters ....................................................................................................................................................5–36
transformer......................................................................................................................... 5–10
example ..........................................................................................................................................................5–7
parameters ......................................................................................................................................................5–8
Multi freq – run .................................................................................................................... 5–41
Multi freq – set ...................................................................................................................... 5–38
Multi freq mode .................................................................................................................... 5–43
example.............................................................................................................................. 5–38
parameters.......................................................................................................................... 5–41
Navigation keys ..................................................................................................................... 4–10
O/C trim................................................................................................................................. 4–16
O/C trim (pri)........................................................................................................................ 4–17
O/C trim (pri–sec)................................................................................................................. 4–18
Power
cable............................................................................................................................. 1–2, 3–1
connections ............................................................................................................................................1–2, 3–1
fuse rating.......................................................................................................................................................1–2
ground conductor ...........................................................................................................................................1–2
removal precautions............................................................................................................. 4–9
supply........................................................................................................... 1–2, 1–3, 3–1, 4–1
frequency........................................................................................................................................................3–1
voltage setting ................................................................................................................................................3–1
Printer.............................................................................................................. 2–1, 4–2, 4–4, 7–7
connector ..................................................................................................................... 4–2, 4–3
pin assignment................................................................................................................................................4–5
enable/disable code.................................................................................................... 4–3, 4–13
output ................................................................................................................................... 4–4
printing analyzer cal status/settings................................................................................... 4–13
printing from graph mode.................................................................... 5–43, 5–47, 6–21, 6–78
Rack mounting ........................................................................................................................ 3–1
Rdc meas .................................................................................................. 4–30, 4–32, 6–14, 6–23
Rear panel ................................................................................................................................ 4–8
Connections ......................................................................................................................... 4–2
Repetitive mode ............................................... 4–12, 4–14, 4–15, 4–27, 5–19, 5–23, 5–31, 5–53
Resonance mode .................................................................................................................... 5–50
extrapolated search ............................................................................................................ 5–50
S/C trim.................................................................................................................................. 4–16
S/C trim (pri) ......................................................................................................................... 4–17
S/C trim (sec) ......................................................................................................................... 4–19
Safety ........................................................................................................................................ 1–3
Safety checks............................................................................................................................ 9–1
Safety interlock................................................................................................................ 4–2, 7–4
connections .......................................................................................................................... 4–2
not required .......................................................................................................................... 4–3
Save nom ................................................................................................................................ 4–31
Scanner
four-wire ........................................................ 4–23, 4–24, 4–25, 4–26, 5–2, 5–12, 5–14, 5–33
Self calibration ............................................................................................................ 4–22, 4–23
Sequence edit mode
copying a program ............................................................................................................. 5–28
deleting a program ............................................................................................................. 5–29
loading an existing program............................................................................................... 5–26
new program ............................................................................................................ 5–25, 5–27
program label ..................................................................................................................... 5–28
saving a program................................................................................................................ 5–28
Sequence run mode ............................................................................................................... 5–31
program development ........................................................................................................ 5–31
running a program.............................................................................................................. 5–32
selecting a program ............................................................................................................ 5–31
Service .............................................................................................................................. 1–2, 9–2
Settings page .......................................................................................................................... 5–54
parameters .......................................................................................................................... 5–54
Show scale .......................................................................................................... 4–30, 4–31, 6–30
Single shot mode.............................................. 4–12, 4–14, 4–15, 4–27, 5–11, 5–19, 5–23, 5–53
Soft keys ................................................................................................................................. 4–10
Speed ........................................................................................ 4–27, 4–33, 5–5, 6–14, 6–26, 7–3
affecting accuracy ................................................................................................................ 7–4
graph marker ...................................................................................................................... 5–46
Static electricity....................................................................................................................... 1–3
Supply frequency..................................................................................................................... 3–1
Support and service ................................................................................................................ 9–2
Telecoms mode ...................................................................................................................... 5–37
connections .......................................................................................................................... 5–3
example .............................................................................................................................. 5–34
parameters .......................................................................................................................... 5–36
Transfer standard capacitor ................................................................................................ 4–16
Transformer mode ................................................................................................................ 5–10
 connections .................................................................................................................. 5–3, 5–6
example................................................................................................................................ 5–7
parameters............................................................................................................................ 5–8
Trigger ......................................................... 4–7, 4–8, 6–1, 6–14, 6–20, 6–22, 6–24, 6–69, 6–87
bin handler interface .................................................................................................... 4–8, 7–7
external bin handler ............................................................................................................. 4–6
key............................................................................ 4–6, 4–12, 4–27, 5–11, 5–32, 5–42, 5–50
query local condition ............................................................................................... 6–22, 6–87
set local condition.................................................................................................... 6–22, 6–87
Trigger in connector ..................................................................................... 4–2, 4–3, 4–6, 4–27
Trimming......................................... 3–2, 3–3, 4–11, 4–20, 4–26, 4–28, 5–53, 6–22, 6–84, 6–85
default values..................................................................................................................... 4–13
for turns ratio measurements ............................................................................................... 5–9
frequency ............................................................................................................................. 5–5
insulation mode.................................................................................... 5–11, 5–14, 5–15, 5–16
level ..................................................................................................................................... 5–5
measurement of very small inductors .................................................................................. 5–5
options ............................................................................................................................... 4–18
status .................................................................................................... 5–54, 6–10, 6–11, 6–86
telecoms mode ................................................................................................................... 5–34
transformer mode................................................................................................................. 5–7
Wayne Kerr test leads and fixtures....................................................................................... 3–3