PB-503

Analog & Digital

Design Workstation User Manual
Features & Applications
The PB-503 Analog & Digital Design Workstation is a robust electronics trainer suitable
for all levels of electronics instruction and design. Utilizing the PB-503, students will
learn valuable hands-on breadboarding techniques and build a solid foundation in circuit
experimentation, construction and analysis. Experienced designers will find the PB-503
an invaluable instrument, providing a reliable platform for the most advanced and
demanding design applications. The PB-503 can be used to construct basic series and
parallel circuits to the most complicated multi-stage microcomputer circuits,
incorporating the latest in industrial technology. Use the PB-503 to construct a wide
variety of experiments, including but not limited to.

• Opto-Device Circuits
• Clocks
• Multivibrators
• Oscillator Circuits
• Timers
• Function Generator Circuits
• Logic Circuits
• Gates
• Counters
• Flip-Flops
• Analog-to-Digital Converters
• Digital-to-Analog Converters
• Medium Scale Integration Circuits
• Phase Lock Loops
• Operational Amplifiers

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PB-503 COURSEWARE
Courseware is available separately through our website or as part of the PB-503 Lab
package.
The PB-503 Lab package offers comprehensive course instruction covering the
following areas:

Electronic Fundamentals Digital Electronics

   
Fundamentals of Electricity Number Systems & Codes
Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal, Octal &
Ohm’s Law ASCII
Series Circuits Logic Gates & Boolean Algebra
Parallel Circuits Combinational Logic Circuits
Combinational Circuits Flip-Flops
Current Control Digital Arithmetic
Closed, open, shorts Counters & Registers
Switches Integrated Circuit Logic Families
Thevenin’s Theorem TTL Logic
Wheatstone Bridge MOSFETS
Capacitors CMOS
Inductors Interfacing CMOS & TTL
Phase Shift Circuits Medium Scale Integration
Impedance Decoders
Resonant Circuits Encoders
Transformers Data Conversion & Acquisition
Rectifiers & Filtering Microcomputer Concepts
Integrated Circuits
Transistor Amplifiers
Oscillators
Power Control Circuits

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ABOUT GLOBAL SPECIALTIES

Thank you for selecting the Model PB-503. Since 1973, Global Specialties has been the
recognized leader in technical education courses, training equipment and tutorial
materials. Our electronics and microcomputer teaching systems have proven to be
effective in secondary schools, technical schools, colleges, universities and industrial
training departments throughout the world.

We have been leaders in the development of integrated teaching systems and

completely packaged courses which include everything required for effective
instruction. Comprehensive textbooks, laboratory manuals and instructor guides
have been written in a comfortable, non-intimidating style by experienced
professional educators, specifically for use with our equipment. Each course is
designed to make selections appropriate for a variety of educational levels and
course goals

The central concept upon which we base our entire product line is education
through application. We believe that relevant scientific and technical education is
best when it involves permitting students to learn by doing.

Global stands behind it products by offering the industry’s best warranties. The
PB-503 comes with a full three-year parts and labor warranty and can be
returned for prompt repair or replacement to our factory in Yorba Linda California.

Low per-student cost, durable and trouble-free hardware and proven tutorial
materials combine to make technical and scientific courses from Global
Specialties the most effective, economical way to upgrade your lab & curriculum.

Please visit www.globalspecialties.com to explore the many options available for

the PB-503, such as such as courseware, pre-formed jumper wire kits, test
probes and prototyping accessories.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................ Page 7

INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................Page 9

DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL FEATURES .................................................. Page 10

CHECKING OUT THE PB-503 ......................................................................... Page 12

BREADBOARDING TECHNIQUES ..................................................................Page 14

SERVICE & WARRANTY INFORMATION ........................................................ Page 15

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SPECIFICATIONS

Input Power Source AC Line: 115VAC @ 60Hz (typical)

Fixed DC: +5VDC 1.0A max, current limited

Ripple, <5mV
Variable DC: +1.3V @150mA to +15VDC @
500mA
Ripple < 5mV
Variable DC: -1.3VDC @ 150mA to -15VDC @
500mA
Power Supplies Ripple < 5mV

(4) Ground, +5VDC, Variable +VDC & Variable -

Binding Posts DC Power Supply Outputs

(2) Pushbutton-operated, open-collector output

pulsers. Each with 1 normally-open, 1 normally-
Pulsers closed output. Each output can sink up to 250mA.

Frequency Range: 0.1Hz to 100KHz in six

ranges
Output Voltage: 0 to + 10Vp-p into 50 Ω Load
(20Vp-p in open circuit), short circuit protected
Output Impedance: 600Ω 9except TTL
Output waveforms: Sine, Square, Triangle &
TTL Sine Wave Distortion: <3% @ 1Khz Typical
TTL Pulse: Rise & fall time: <25ns, drive 100
TTL Loads
Function Generator Square Wave: Rise and fall times <0.5µs
(8) Logic Switches select Logic High and Logic
Low
Logic Low Level: Ground
Logic High Level: Switchable between +5V and
Logic Switches the variable positive power supplies.

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 (2) Single Pull Double Throw (SPDT) -
Switches uncommitted

LEDs: 16 LEDs; (8) red to indicate logic high and

(8) green to indicate logic low
Logic High Threshold: 2.2V (nominal) in
TTL/+5V mode, 70% (nominal) of selected
operating voltage in CMOS mode
Logic Low Threshold: 0.8V (nominal) in
TTL/+5V mode, 30% (nominal) of selected
Logic Indicators operating voltage in CMOS mode
Connectors (2) BNC - uncommitted
Potentiometers (2) 1KΩ and 10KΩ - uncommitted
Speaker 8Ω, 0.25W - uncommitted

Removable Plexiglas Socket Plate (PB-3) with

2520 Tie points with 200 additional buss strip tie
points internally connected to power supply
Breadboards outputs and ground
Weight 7lbs
Dimensions 6.5" x 16" x 11.5"

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INTRODUCTION

The PB-503 Analog/Digital Electronic Workstation is a versatile, time-saving tool for

circuit designers, engineering technicians, students, and hobbyists. A large breadboard
area and a wide choice of built-in circuit accessories allow rapid and accurate
construction of virtually any type of analog or digital circuit.

Circuit power is provided by three power supplies, two variable and one fixed. The
circuit breadboard area includes over 2500 contact points. A multiple-waveform function
generator supplies sine, triangle, and square wave output for analog circuits. A built-in
speaker may be used for analog output.

Outputs also include a TTL-level square wave generator, two debounced pushbutton
switches, and a bank of eight logic switches. Eight logic indicators may be used to
display high and low logic levels. Two built-in potentiometers and two SPDT switches
are provided for circuit control and adjustment. Connections to external test equipment
or signal sources may be made using the two BNC connectors on the PB-503.

The PB-503 eliminates the clutter and confusion that often results when constructing
sophisticated circuits. Alligator clips and similar connectors are seldom needed. Sockets
on the PB-503 allow insertion of components or wires of up to 20 gauge.

A detailed panel layout and description of the PB-503 is given in the section
"Description of Individual Features".

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DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL FEATURES

In order to properly use the full capabilities of the PB-503, it is highly recommended that
the user become familiar with the panel layout and the features of the components.
(See Figure 1)

Figure 1: PB-503 Components

POWER SUPPLIES

By combining the three DC power supplies on the PB-503, the user may work with
virtually any type of integrated circuit or discrete component. The fixed 5 volt supply has
become an industry standard for powering digital IC's. IC's which require +5 V, +12 V,
and -5 V are easily accommodated by the PB-503. The variable supply output voltages
may be changed by using the screwdriver adjustment on the front panel. The positive
and negative outputs are continuously variable from +1.3 to +15 volts and -1.3 to -15
volts respectively. Both variable supply outputs are referenced to circuit common. This
creates a split supply which is often used with differential and operational amplifiers (op
amps). The adjustments are recessed to prevent inadvertent voltage changes which
could be destructive to a circuit.

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In addition to the DC power supplies, the PB-503 also provides a 12.6 volt center-
tapped AC supply. This allows the user to construct any of a variety of half-wave and
full-wave rectified power supplies on the breadboarding area and apply power by simply
connecting jumper wires to the three AC supply output pins.

FUNCTION GENERATOR

The multi-waveform function generator provides continuously variable frequency signals

from 0.1 Hz (for extra-low frequency work) to radio frequency signals of 100 KHz. The
frequency is selected in six decade ranges, with a slide potentiometer to adjust
frequency within each range. The sine wave output is factory adjusted for minimum
distortion. The triangle waveform is adjusted for best linearity. The standard square
wave and TTL level outputs are both set at a 5 0% duty cycle. The TTL output, capable
of driving up to 10 TTL loads, is continuously available and in phase with the square
wave output. The low output impedance of the sine, square, and triangle waveforms
(600 Ω) assures maximum coupling of the output signal to the device being driven. All
outputs can withstand a continuous short circuit to ground.

LOGIC INDICATORS

Sixteen LEDs, eight red and eight green, make up eight Logic Indicators that will display
logic high and low conditions based on either TTL or CMOS thresholds, selectable by
the user. Operating voltage can also be selected by the user to be either at +5 volts, or
at the setting of the 1.3 - 15 volts +V supply. This selection should be the same as the
operating circuitry that is to be monitored. The red LEDs will light when the voltages at
the inputs are 2.2 volts or higher when in the TTL position, or 70% of the operating
voltage or higher when in the CMOS position. The green LEDs will light when the
voltages at the inputs are 0.8 volts or less when in the TTL position, or 3 0% of the
operating voltage or less when in the CMOS position. An unconnected input, or an input
not at a valid logic level, will cause both LEDs to be extinguished. Note that the
thresholds determined by the TTL positions are only accurate when the +5 volt range is
selected. The 100KΩ input impedance ensures minimal loading effects of the circuit
under test.

DEBOUNCED PUSHBUTTONS (PULSERS)

The PB-503 uses clocked flip-flops to provide debounced pushbutton switch functions.
The pushbutton circuitry has open-collector outputs which can sink up to 250 mA each.
This type of debouncing gives the user a sharp, glitch-free trigger source which
assures reliable operation in digital circuits. Each pushbutton has a normally-open and
a normally-closed output. If necessary, a pull-up resistor can connect any pulser output
to any of the positive voltage sources.

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POTENTIOMETERS

Two potentiometers are provided on the PB-503. The resistance values chosen (1KΩ
and 10KΩ) may be used in common circuit applications such as volume controls, DC
offset controls for op amps, and timing circuit controls. All leads for both potentiometers
are available and uncommitted.

BNC CONNECTORS
The PB-503 may be connected to other pieces of equipment via two BNC connectors.
This allows the use of shielded cable to minimize noise and interference.
SWITCHES

Two single pole, double throw (SPDT) switches are provided for general switching
functions. All leads are available and clearly marked on the PB-503 for easy connection.
Eight switches are configured as Logic Switches to provide a convenient source of
digital outputs. These switches will provide logic levels of zero volts (ground) for a logic
low, and logic high levels of either +5 volts or the voltage setting of the 1.3 -15 volt +V
supply. The high level is determined by the setting of the +5/+V switch. This
arrangement makes connecting special digital circuitry such as an eight-bit input port
quick and easy, and allows compatibility with virtually any logic family.

CAUTION
Integrated circuits can be destroyed if a voltage is applied to their inputs
that is higher than the operating voltage of the ICs. Always insure that the
setting of the +5/+V high-level switch is in the correct position before
making connections to any device.

CHECKING OUT THE PB-503

The PB-503 may be checked out for proper operation by making a few simple
measurements and connections. Begin by connecting the AC line cord to a suitable
receptacle. The AC power indicator should light when the power switch is turned on.

Using a DC voltmeter, check for +5 volts between the ground terminal and the +5 volt
terminal. Repeat the measurement for the positive (+) variable supply terminal and the
negative (-) variable supply terminal. Check the variability of each supply by turning the
appropriate adjusting screw. To test the logic indicators, switch the +5/+V operating
voltage switch to the +5 position. The TTL/CMOS threshold switch can be in either
position. With no input to the logic indicators, all LEDs should be turned off. Connect
one end of a jumper wire to the + 5 volt terminal and the other end to logic indicator 1;
the red LED of logic indicator 1 should light. Repeat this test for logic indicators 2
through 8. Disconnect the jumper from the +5 volt terminal and connect it to the ground

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terminal. Connect the other end to logic indicator 1; the green LED of logic indicator 1
should light. Repeat this test for logic indicators 2 through 8.

The function generator may be tested by connecting its output to one of the speaker
inputs. Connect the other speaker input to the ground terminal (or one of the connectors
on the ground bus strip). Switch the function generator range switch to "1" and the
Hz/kHz switch to "kHz". Move the frequency control all the way to the top. Move the
amplitude control upward until you hear a tone coming from the speaker. Switch the
waveform selector to select sine, square, and triangle. A changing but clearly audible
tone should be heard in each position. Changing the position of the frequency control
should vary the pitch of the tone.

If an oscilloscope is available, you may check the function generator for proper
waveform and frequency using standard measurement techniques.

The debounced pushbuttons can be checked by connecting one side of a resistor (20Ω
to 100 KΩ) to +5 volts and the other side to PB1-1, the NC point. Then connect PB1-1
to LED-1 with the Logic Indicator +5/+V switch in the +5 position, the red LED should
light when PB1 is pressed and the green LED should light when PB1 is released. Next,
move the connections from PB1-1 to PB1-2, the NO point. Now the red LED should be
lit when PB1 is not pressed, and the green LED should be lit when PB1 is pressed.
Repeat these steps to test PB2.

The logic switches can be tested by connecting the output of logic switches 1 through 8
to the input of logic indicators 1 through 8. Switch the logic switch +5V/+V high level
switch to +5, and switch the logic indicator +5/+V operating voltage switch to +5. Select
the CMOS position on the logic indicator TTL/CMOS threshold select switch. Now the
logic indicators should reflect the conditions of the logic switches, that is, red LEDs will
indicate switches in the high (logic "1") position and green LEDs will indicate switches in
the low (logic "0") position. Move each switch between its high and low position to verify
proper functioning. Switch the logic switch +5/+V high level switch to +V and the logic
indicator +5/+V operating voltage switch to +V; the relationship between the switch
positions and the logic indicator display should remain the same, regardless of the
setting of the 1.3 - 15 volts +V supply.

By using an ohmmeter, you can check the potentiometers. To do so, select an

appropriate range for measuring 10 KΩ and connect the ohmmeter leads to R1-1 and
R1-2. With R1 rotated fully counterclockwise a reading of 0Ω ohms should be observed.
As the potentiometer is rotated clockwise, the resistance reading will be seen to
increase linearly up to 10 KΩ ± 20%. Now move the ohmmeter lead from R1-l to R1-3;
with R1 fully clockwise the ohmmeter will read zero ohms, and the resistance will
increase linearly to the full value noted previously as the potentiometer is rotated
counterclockwise. Select an ohmmeter range appropriate for 1 KΩ and repeat these
steps on R2 to verify its function.

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To test SPDT switch S9, put S9 in the up position and connect an ohmmeter to S9-1
and S9-2. The ohmmeter should read 0 Ω. When the switch is brought to the down
position, an open circuit should be indicated. Move the ohmmeter lead from S9-1 to S9-
3 and observe a short circuit with S9 down, and an open with S9 up. These steps can
be repeated on S10 to test its functions.

BREADBOARDING TECHNIQUES
This section contains information which may prove useful when constructing circuits
using the PB-503. While there are no hard and fast rules for breadboarding, the
following tips may save time and trouble.

Unless a circuit is being prepared for a demonstration or display, avoid cutting

component leads very short. While short wires and leads may look neat, the clipped
components will only fit into a limited "span" of connector sockets, limiting the use of the
component. It is perfectly permissible to use untrimmed components while exploring
different circuit possibilities. The only time short leads may be necessary is when
operating at higher frequencies and experiencing mysterious malfunctions. Sometimes
the only way to correct high frequency circuit problems is to shorten all circuit
connections.

Be cautious when using components which have been removed from a tape reel used
in automatic insertion equipment. Suppliers of surplus components often sell
components which are taped together in small batches. Removing the components from
the tape does not always remove the adhesive from the leads of the components.
Placing a formerly taped component into a socket connector may result in a poor
electrical connection and, worse still, leave tape adhesive in the socket. Avoid this
problem by either carefully cleaning taped component leads, clipping the taped portion
of the lead off, or avoiding the use of taped components altogether.

Be especially careful when inserting integrated circuits into the breadboard sockets.
Unless the IC pins are straight, it is very easy to crush the pin into a zigzag shape or
fold the pins underneath the body of the IC. Either way the result is a bad connection or
no connection at all.

Always use solid wire for breadboard connections. When stripping the wire ends, be
careful not to strip more than about three-eighths of an inch of insulation from the wire.
Too much bare wire may result in unintentional connections near the wire end.

After you have built up a few circuits, you will have a good collection of pre-stripped
jumper wires. Save them. By reusing these wires, you can save even more time and
effort in assembling future circuits. Pre-formed wires in various sizes are also available
from Global Specialties (please visit web site for available options and accessories).

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SERVICE AND WARRANTY INFORMATION

For up-to-date product information, please visit www.globalspecialties.com.

For instructions on how to obtain a return merchandise authorization number (RMA),

please visit our website, or call our customer service department.

GLOBAL SPECIALTIES
22820 Savi Ranch Parkway
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
800-572-1028
globalspecialties.com

Global Specialties will service and repair this instrument free of charge for a period of 3
full years, subject to the warranty conditions below.

WARRANTY
Global Specialties warrants the PB-503 to be free from defective material or
workmanship for a period of 3 full years from date of original purchase. Under this
warranty, Global Specialties is limited to repairing the defective device when returned to
the factory, shipping charges prepaid, within 3 full years from date of original purchase.
Units returned to Global Specialties that have been subject to abuse, misuse, damage
or accident, or have been connected, installed or adjusted contrary to the instructions
furnished by Global Specialties, or that have been repaired by unauthorized persons will
not be covered by this warranty.
Global Specialties reserves the right to discontinue models, change specifications, price
or design of this device at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation
whatsoever.

The purchaser agrees to assume all liabilities for any damages and/or bodily injury
which may result from the use or misuse of this device by the purchaser, his employees,
or agents.
This warranty is in lieu of all other representations or warranties expressed or implied
and no agent or representative of Global Specialties is authorized to assume any other
obligation in connection with the sale and purchase of this device.

All rights reserved. No Part of this book shall be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying recording,
or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher. No patent liability is
assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein. While every
precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher assumes no
responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained herein.  

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