User's Manual

Including WMFCtool V9.0

Version 3.00

(Revision 1.1)

June 2010

110, ch. Du Pont-du-Centenaire, CH1228 GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

Tel. +41 (22) 884 33 11 Fax +41 (22) 884 33 10
Web : [Link] E-mail : contacts@[Link]
MFC-3045 User’s Manual

CONTENTS

Using the MFC-3045............................................................................................................................ 1

1- INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................... 1
1-1 General description ................................................................................................................................. 1
1-2 Principle of operation............................................................................................................................... 2
1-3 Measurement detailed procedure............................................................................................................ 3
1-4 Operation modes..................................................................................................................................... 4

2- SYSTEM DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................................. 5

2-1 General ................................................................................................................................................... 5
2-2 Main Unit Type MFC-3045 ...................................................................................................................... 5
2-3 Power supply type MFC-3046 ................................................................................................................. 7
2-4 Probe Array type MFC-3048 ................................................................................................................... 8
2-5 Remote Control box ................................................................................................................................ 9
2-6 RS-232C CONNECTIONS .................................................................................................................... 10
2-7 Software package.................................................................................................................................. 11

3- INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 13
3-1 Probe Array ........................................................................................................................................... 13
3-2 PC and printer ....................................................................................................................................... 13
3-3 Connections to main unit, power supply and PC ................................................................................... 13
3-4 power Setting ........................................................................................................................................ 13
3-5 Software set-up ..................................................................................................................................... 13

4- WMFCtool V9.0 .......................................................................................................................... 15

4-1 General description ............................................................................................................................... 15
4-2 Setting up .............................................................................................................................................. 15
4-3 Using WMFCTOOL ............................................................................................................................... 15
4-4 Main measurement window................................................................................................................... 15
4-4-1 Modulation parameters (1) ......................................................................................................... 16
4-4-2 Measurement parameters (2)..................................................................................................... 16
4-4-3 Probe Array frequencies (3) ....................................................................................................... 19
4-4-4 Statistics about the current measurement (4) ............................................................................ 19
4-4-5 Information about the current measurement (5)......................................................................... 19
4-4-6 Results tables and graphs about the current measurement (6) ................................................. 19
4-4-7 Large Display window ................................................................................................................ 20
4-5 Menus and Commands ......................................................................................................................... 21
4-5-1 The Toolbar ............................................................................................................................... 21
4-5-2 File menu ................................................................................................................................... 22
4-5-3 Operate menu ............................................................................................................................ 22
4-5-4 Options menu............................................................................................................................. 24
4-5-5 Advanced menu ......................................................................................................................... 25
4-5-6 Help menu.................................................................................................................................. 25

Technical Topics ............................................................................................................................... 27

5- The Advanced menu ................................................................................................................. 27

5-1 Advanced function: Low Level Commands window............................................................................... 27

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland I

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

5-2 Advanced function: M-U Calibration ...................................................................................................... 27

5-3 Advanced function: P-A NORMALISATION .......................................................................................... 27
5-4 Advanced function: EEPROM Utilities ................................................................................................... 27
5-5 Advanced function: Update FirmWare................................................................................................... 28

6- MFC-3045 CALIBRATION ; PROBE ARRAY NORMALISATION ............................................ 31

6-1 GENERAL ............................................................................................................................................. 31
6-2 Using WMFCtool v9.0 for calibration ..................................................................................................... 31
6-3 Main Unit Calibration ............................................................................................................................. 31
6-3-1 Necessary components.............................................................................................................. 31
6-3-2 The calibration process .............................................................................................................. 32
6-4 Probe Array NORMALISATION............................................................................................................. 33
6-4-1 Necessary components.............................................................................................................. 33
6-4-2 Physical installation of probe array............................................................................................. 33
6-4-3 Before normalising the Probe Array ........................................................................................... 33

7- MFC-3045 BASIC COMMANDS................................................................................................. 39

7-1 General considerations.......................................................................................................................... 39
7-2 Modulation parameters.......................................................................................................................... 40
7-3 Measurement parameters ..................................................................................................................... 42
7-4 Data Acquisition (Measurement) ........................................................................................................... 43
7-5 Data Reading ........................................................................................................................................ 44
7-5-1 After a « RUN » or a Search « SRC » :...................................................................................... 44
7-6 Status and Errors .................................................................................................................................. 47
7-6-1 STATUS 1.................................................................................................................................. 47
7-6-2 STATUS 2 (Modulation parameters errors)................................................................................ 48
7-6-3 STATUS 3 (Measurement status) .............................................................................................. 49
7-6-4 STATUS 4 (Miscellaneous status) ............................................................................................. 50
7-6-5 STATUS 5 (Baud rate & Communication error) ......................................................................... 51
7-6-6 STATUS 6 (Communication settings)......................................................................................... 52
7-6-7 Send Messages Automatically ................................................................................................... 53
7-7 Probe Array ........................................................................................................................................... 55
7-8 RS-232 settings and Miscellaneous commands .................................................................................... 56
7-9 Probe Array Normalisation & EEPROM................................................................................................. 59

8- SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................................... 63
8-1 Main Unit MFC-3045 ............................................................................................................................. 63
8-2 Power Supply unit MFC-3046................................................................................................................ 63
8-3 Probe Array MFC-3048 ......................................................................................................................... 63
8-4 Rotating Probe Array holderS MFC-3039, -3040, -3049........................................................................ 63
8-5 DEEE CONFORMITY ........................................................................................................................... 64

9- Appendix : FIELD MAPPING ................................................................................................... 65

II Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Using the MFC-3045

1- INTRODUCTION

1-1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION

One of the primary requirements for effective Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is sufficient
uniformity of the main magnetic field. Spatial homogeneity within a few ppm is never obtained without
sophisticated correction systems ("shims"). The shimming process requires a precise measurement
and analysis of the magnetic field, which can be highly time consuming.
The METROLAB Magnetic Field Camera MFC-3045 system offers a very quick and easy way to map
MRI magnets. The speed of the MFC-3045 system offers inestimable advantage over all existing
mapping and analysis systems. The system is suitable for all mapping applications: inhomogeneity
analysis, shim coil characterization, gradient coil characterization, superconducting magnet decay
monitoring, quality control, etc.
The METROLAB Magnetic Field Camera MFC-3045 is a complete magnetic field mapping system
for analysis of solenoid and dipole magnets.
The main features of the system are as follows:
• The measurement of the magnetic field is based on NMR probes with a modulation of the radio
frequency. The field is measured with a relative precision better than 0.1 ppm. The system
handles up to 96 NMR probes that are all measured simultaneously. The probes are mounted
onto a Probe Array unit.
• The total measurement time is only a few seconds (typically 5 seconds). Since all probes are read
simultaneously, the total measurement time is greatly reduced.
• The Probe Array is dedicated to one field value and its range can be extended up to typically
±2%.
• A Probe Array can be designed for any field value between 0.08 and 7 Tesla (3.4 to 300 MHz).
• The magnetic field is generally mapped by measuring the points on the surface of a spherical
volume. This measurement is achieved by using a half-moon Probe Array that rotates around the
field axis. This simple mechanical movement results in an excellent compromise between the
price of the Probe Array, time of measurement and the simplicity of the system. Other geometries
defined by the customer can be realized.
• The stability of the system is good enough to perform superconducting decay monitoring (Version
3045D).
• The system is controlled by computer, via an RS-232C interface.
• The system is supplied with LabVIEW software WMFCTOOL running under Windows 98/NT4 or
later. WMFCTOOL allows controlling, storing and viewing data.

With the MFC-3045, all measurements and data are expressed in dHz (1/10 of Hertz). However, for
greater convenience, the data in the WMFCTOOL software are expressed in Hz or MHz with a
resolution of the decihertz [dHz]. The conversion factor to the Tesla units is the γ factor:

γ = 42.576255 MHz/T

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 1

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

1-2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

The two primary components of the system are:
1 MFC-3045 Main Unit
1 MFC-3048 Probe Array
The MFC-3048 Probe Array is the sensing unit of the system and it is placed in the magnetic field to
be measured. In order to operate, the system must be connected to a host computer via an RS-232C
link. The LabVIEW WMFCTOOL software, running under Windows 98/NT4 or later is provided with
the system and gives the user easy access to the operation of the system. The description of all
operational commands is given in this user manual.
The main functions are as follows:
• The user can modify the measurement parameters.
• The Radio Frequency signal, sent in parallel to all NMR probes, is modulated in order to
produce the NMR signals (frequency modulation).
• All NMR signals for each probe are stored.
• The validity of all NMR signals of each probe is checked. Missing and noisy signals are
rejected.
• The average NMR frequency value (field value), its standard deviation over all measurement
cycles, as well as the number of cycles giving NMR signals, are available for each NMR
probe. The central and extreme NMR frequencies over all measurement points are also
given.
• The optional analysis software MFC 3050 calculates the spherical harmonic coefficients of
the measured field. It can be adapted to any Probe Array configuration.
• For optimized magnetic field analysis: see annex at end of this manual

MFC-3045 Main Unit MFC-3048

RF Generator RF Probe Array
Probe Counters NMR Probes
1 1 1

RS-232C 2 2 2
Link CPU

3 3 3

Data Buffer

N N N

Figure 1 : Schematic representation of the MFC-3045 Measurement system

2 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

1-3 MEASUREMENT DETAILED PROCEDURE

As previously stated, the measurement parameters define the number N of cycles of a measure, for
each probe of the Array. This number corresponds to N frequency sweep cycles with a period T.
Normally, for each frequency sweep, resonance is detected twice, once on increasing, once on
decreasing frequency. The resonance position is detected by separate counters for the 2 signals.
Then the mean value of these 2 counts is used to calculate the real NMR frequency.

Frequency

Up going frequency
Calculated NMR frequency = mean value
Down going frequency

Time
T
NMR signal

Time

Figure 2 : Description of NMR frequency detection and calculation

At that point, a decision of the measure’s validity is made:

- If no signal or only one signal is detected, the measure of that cycle is invalid.
- If the difference between up and down counts is superior to a normalized value, established at
factory for each Probe Array, plus a margin of about 40 ppm, the measure of that cycle is also
considered as invalid.
This allows the system to reject measurement drifts, caused by noise or pulses present in the
neighborhood of the system, which do not represent the real field value.
At the end of each measurement cycle, and for each probe, ‘n’ measures may have been found to be
invalid.
The final NMR frequency measure is the mean value of the so defined N - n valid measures. At the
same time, the RMS standard deviation in dHz is calculated, in order to give an idea of the
confidence level of the relevant measure. The number of valid cycles (N – n) is also recorded and
displayed.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 3

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

1-4 OPERATION MODES

The 3045 system is designed to operate in four main measurement modes:

- The normal Measurement mode used for magnet mapping and normal field measurements. This
mode consists of sweeping the frequency over a relatively small range within the +/- 2% full range
of the Probe Array; in this mode, the amplitude of the frequency sweep is typically 1’000 ppm
(0.1%) of the nominal central frequency value (however, larger amplitudes are allowed).

In this mode, using the included software WMFCTOOL, measurement parameters can be modified
from their default values, such as:
- Central frequency,
- Amplitude of frequency sweep,
- Period of sweep,
- Number of sweeps per measure.
This mode can be triggered from the Remote Box and allows collecting a set of measures.

- The Search mode is a mode intended to find the exact field of a magnet, in order to define the
central frequency for the normal mode measurement.

In this mode, the user cannot change the measurement parameters and they are automatically
adjusted to cover the full range of the Probe Array. The number of cycles is also pre-defined (typ.
12). If the magnetic field value is somewhere in the Probe Array range, then it will be measured.
The measurement parameters previously set during the normal measurement mode will be not
changed by the Search mode.

Due to the low number of cycles and the large amplitude of the modulation (typ. 40'000 ppm) the
accuracy is not as high as in normal measurement mode, but sufficient for setting the central
frequency value of the next normal mode measurement.

- The Continuous mode is similar to the Normal Measurement mode, and will use the same
parameters with the exception that it runs continuously (the number of cycles is not taken in
account) and has to be stopped by the user. With WMFCTOOL, a timer allows the user to stop the
Continuous mode automatically.

This mode is intended to measure and survey the field value over a short period of time. The data
are available after each cycle, and, provided the Baud rate is fast enough, it is possible to obtain
measurements at each cycle of the modulation. (typ. 60ms)

- The Hunt mode, is used when establishing the current in a superconducting magnet. It is a method
of determining when the field reaches the nominal value. It monitors in real time the field value over
the entire zone of sensitivity of the Probe Array (typ. ±2%).

In Hunt mode, when the field is outside the sensitivity range of the Probe Array, WMFCTOOL
displays « 0 », meaning that no NMR signal is detected. When the field is within the range of the
Probe Array, a NMR signal is detected and measured. The frequency is then displayed with a
resolution of 0.1 kHz, for example:
« 63.2754 MHz »

4 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

2- SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

2-1 GENERAL
This system is intended to perform very reliable magnetic field mapping. The various components of
the system have been designed to yield an ergonomically optimized whole in which the main
electronic unit is completely blind (no display, no command panel) and only the PC, along with a
“Remote Box,“ provides all the necessary displays and command panels.

USER’S PROBE
PC USER’S HOLDER
PRINTER MFC 3049
PROBE
ARRAY
MFC 3048
// LPT

RS-232 10 meter

MAIN UNIT
REMOTE
MFC 3045
BOX

to AC mains
RF 3 meter
POWER
SUPPLY 10 meter 4 meter
MFC 3046

Figure 3 : Physical representation of the MFC-3045 system

2-2 MAIN UNIT TYPE MFC-3045

The Main Unit is enclosed in an aluminum box, with walls 6mm thick. The box is then connected to
the Probe Array by a 3 meter long cable. It is designed to operate in magnetic surrounding of up to
0.2 Tesla and can therefore be located very near the magnet to be measured. Its rugged
construction makes it an element needing no special care. However the user must keep in mind
that the presence of small magnetic parts, mainly in the connectors, can create a mechanical
force if the Main Unit is put into the magnet.
This Main Unit contains all the electronic elements driving the Probe Array and managing
measurements:
• The RF source generating the high precision frequency modulated signal.
• Programmed integrated circuits that count the NMR frequency for each probe of the Probe
Array.
• The bi-directional communication transfers via the RS-232C port to the PC.
• The management of the various operating modes of the measurement system.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 5

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 4 : View of the Main Unit MFC-3045

The Main Unit MFC-3045 is specific to a type of Probe Array, with respect to the maximum number
of probes (32, 64 or 96) that it can handle. Otherwise it is universal with respect to central frequency
and operating mode. Thus the same unit may control any Probe Array as long as the number of
probes is compatible with the MFC-3045 configuration. By default, the Main Unit has 32 channels
(one channel per probe).

The connectors of the MFC-3045 can be seen in the following figure:

Lemo 8p, Size 3, Lemo 5p, Size 1, Lemo 2p, Size 2,

Power Supply Remote Control box RF connector

25p Sub-D connector, Industrial 37p Sub-D, Closed door to the

RS-232 port to PC Probe-Array connector maintenance connector

Figure 5 : View of the different connectors of the MFC-3045

6 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

2-3 POWER SUPPLY TYPE MFC-3046

A separate power supply delivers the necessary voltages to the Main Unit via a 10 meter cable so
that it can be installed near the PC.

The power supply

accepts AC voltage
in the range:
90V to 264V
50 / 60 Hz

Figure 6 : View of the Power Supply MFC-3046

In fact, the power supply delivers regulated voltages slightly higher than the required end voltages.
These voltages are then redistributed into the various zones of the Main Unit where they are set to
the final voltage by local regulators with low voltage drop, in order to minimize thermal losses. The
power supply is separated from the Main Unit because it cannot be in a magnetic field as it
contains a transformer that will not work in magnetic fields greater than 0.01 Tesla. The best place to
locate the Power supply is near the PC.

This unit has an LED light monitoring the Power supply to the MFC-3045 system and a Reset button,
allowing a reset of the Main Unit from the PC control room. All the functions of this unit can be seen
in Figure 7.

Figure 7 : View of the principal ports and commands of MFC-3046

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 7

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

2-4 PROBE ARRAY TYPE MFC-3048

The Probe Array is usually a custom design for which the shape (half moon, circle, sphere or
cylinder), the number of probes, their geometrical distribution and the general overall dimensions are
defined for each customer’s application.

Figure 8 : Partial view of a Half Moon type Probe Array with a part of cover removed, showing probes

However, Metrolab proposes several types of standard half moon type Probe Arrays with nominal
diameters of 300 to 500 mm.

These Half Moon Probe Arrays are placed on a probe holder, for example an MFC-3039, MFC-3040
or MFC-3049. These permit the half moon Probe Array to be rotated around the magnetic field axis
with 12, 16, 24, 32 or 36 angular positions per turn.
3D type Probe Arrays (spherical or cylindrical) are intended to realize a complete mapping without
any displacement of the Probe Array. The advantage of a shorter measurement time is compensated
by a smaller final number of measures, i.e. a smaller spatial resolution.
When connected to the MFC-3045 Main Unit, the Probe Array data may be read in the control PC. It
contains an EEPROM memory programmed with all the specific data of a Probe Array, including
central frequency, minimum & maximum measurement frequencies, number of probes and other
useful functional data, such as the correction table.
This correction table is the result of the normalisation of every Probe Array. This normalisation
consists of reducing the discrepancy between every probe of the array when placed in the same
magnetic field. After normalisation, this discrepancy can be reduced to less than ±0.25 ppm. (see
section 6-4 page 33)

8 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 9 : Probe Array Holders MFC-3049, MFC-3040 and MFC-3039.

2-5 REMOTE CONTROL BOX

The Remote Control box is a small plastic box connected to the Main Unit by a 4 meter long cable,
enabling it to be placed near the Probe Array holder. It monitors the power on state of the MFC-3045
and allows starting a measurement as soon as the Probe Array has been moved. During the
measurement period an illuminated red LED indicates that the Probe Array cannot be moved to
another angle. If the LED is blinking, it indicates that an error occurred in the system.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 9

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 10 : View of the Remote Control box and its commands

An additional push-button, actuated with a sharp tool such as the tip of a pencil or ball pen for
security reasons, allows a system reset.
The Remote Control box is also used to restore the default RS-232 parameters. The RS-232
parameters are set by software only and they are permanently stored in a non-volatile memory. This
means that if the RS-232 parameters, such as Baud rate, number of bits, etc, of the PC do not match
the RS-232 parameters set in the Main Unit MFC-3045, communication will no longer be possible. To
restore communication, the PC must be set to 9600 baud, 8 bits, 1 stop-bit, no parity, no hard or soft
handshake (the default RS-232 parameters of the Main Unit). To reset the Main Unit to these default
parameters, the user must 1) push and hold down the Start button, 2) push briefly the reset button
(i.e. with a pencil). The Busy LED will blink about 8 seconds then switch off. Only at that time may the
Start button be released. The default RS-232 parameters are then restored in the Main Unit
MFC-3045. If the Start button is released when the Busy LED is still blinking, the previous RS-232
parameters are kept.

2-6 RS-232C CONNECTIONS

The RS-232C connection uses a Null modem cable:

TX 2 3 TX

RX 3 2 RX

RTS 4 7 RTS

CTS 5 8 CTS

DSR 6 6 DSR

DCD 8 1 DCD

DTR 20 4 DTR

GND 7 5 GND

MFC 3045 CONNECTOR

PC 9 PIN SERIAL PORT CONNECTOR

10 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

2-7 SOFTWARE PACKAGE

In addition to the System physical elements, a software tool, WMFCTOOL, is supplied. This enables
a PC connected to the serial port of the Main Unit MFC-3045 to display and control all the functions
and parameters of the system. It also enables the recording of measurements in files that allow the
user to quickly obtain information about field value homogeneity and stability of the controlled
magnet.
This software provides two types of communication access to MFC-3045:
• An intuitive and easy to use program, allowing the establishment of measurement
parameters and measurement sequences, for the normal use of the equipment. It also
simplifies data reading.
• A Low Level mode, which allows the use of any of the MFC-3045 commands for sending
commands or retrieving data from the Main Unit. In fact this mode works like a terminal. Any
characters typed on the keyboard will be sent to the MFC-3045 (after the Enter key has been
keyed), and any characters sent by the MFC-3045 will be displayed on the screen. This
mode is useful for special operations and advanced commands, but is tedious to use for
normal measurement purposes.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 11

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

12 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

3- INSTALLATION

3-1 PROBE ARRAY

The Probe Array should be first installed inside the magnet to be measured with the appropriate
positioning tool (for example the rotating Probe Array holder MFC-3049 with the Metrolab half moon
type Probe Arrays), in the zone to be mapped.
It should be then connected to the Main Unit MFC-3045 via the reinforced Sub-D locking connector
and to the size 2 LEMO 2 pin RF connector.

3-2 PC AND PRINTER

The PC and attached printer are not delivered with the MFC-3045 system. It must be IBM
compatible, running Windows 98/NT4 or later. A Pentium processor or equivalent is highly
recommended.
Because the communication to the MFC-3045 system is achieved via the serial port, a laptop PC can
be used. This is especially useful for a portable system used for shimming magnets at the customer’s
site.

3-3 CONNECTIONS TO MAIN UNIT, POWER SUPPLY AND PC

The Main Unit MFC-3045 should be placed in a zone of magnetic field of less than 0.2T, and then
connected to its other external elements (connectors are shown on Figure 5), such as:
• The MFC-3048 Probe Array, via the size 2 LEMO 2 p in plug and the industrial Sub-D
connector.
• The Remote Box via the size 1 LEMO 5 pin plug.
• The PC via a 25 pin Sub-D serial cable.
• The Power Supply MFC-3046 via the size 3 LEMO 8 pin plug.
These 2 last elements, placed in the control room, away from the dangers of the magnetic field,
should then be connected to the mains. Before connection, refer to the specifications of MFC-3046
Power Supply in section 8-2, page 63 (90 to 264 AC Volts, 50/60Hz ) and those of the PC in its own
User’s Manual.

3-4 POWER SETTING

In order to initialize the system be correctly, it is recommended that the PC be switched on before the
MFC-3045.
As soon as the system is in operation, green LED indicators on the Power Supply case and on the
Remote Box should be on. If not, verify the connections and the presence of line voltage on mains
plug. The red busy LED on the Remote Box must be On for less than about 2 seconds when the
Power Supply is switched ON. If it does not switch off, it indicates a hardware failure in the MCF
3045 Main Unit.
Before using the MFC-3045 system for measurements, wait at least a 10 minutes to allow the oven-
controlled crystal of the reference oscillator to warm up, in order to obtain full measurement stability.

3-5 SOFTWARE SET-UP

Please refer to section 4-2 page 15 for the PC set-up of the WMFCTOOL software.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 13

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

14 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

4- WMFCTOOL V9.0

4-1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The WMFCTOOL package is a LabVIEW based program that provides immediate access to the
control and operation of the MFC-3045 measurement system. Running Windows 98/NT4 or later, it
allows the user to access all of the usual commands and instrument parameters and to perform all
the measurement sequences allowed by the MFC-3045 Firmware.
This program also displays Measurement data files, making immediately available the good or bad
results of a measurement sequence. This allows the user to immediately improve the measurement
conditions for a new measurement sequence.
Finally, this program contains Advanced functions like the Low Level Commands mode, allowing the
user to communicate directly with the MFC-3045 using its native commands. Calibrating the Main
Unit and Probe Arrays and updating the MFC-3045 FirmWare are other Advanced functions.

4-2 SETTING UP
The PC installation of WMFCTOOL is done simply by inserting the WMFCTOOL CD-ROM in the
computer. Then execute [Link] located in the root directory of the CD-ROM. Note that with
CD-ROM media, the setup program should start automatically.

4-3 USING WMFCTOOL

WMFCTOOL provides user friendly menus and windows that allow the user to reach the desired
mode of operation by a mouse click, using only intuitive decision and no code or written command. In
addition, a few system conventions simplify decisions:
• White backgrounds indicate that the fields can be modified: sequences, frequency values,
etc…
• Grey backgrounds indicate that values cannot be changed
• “Cancel” buttons exit the current window without saving the changes
• “Done” buttons exit the current window and save the changes

When exiting, WMFCTOOL saves the configuration and settings in a file, so the next time
WMFCTOOL is executed, all settings are restored automatically. Starting WMFCTOOL opens the
Main Window, which is the measurement panel.

4-4 MAIN MEASUREMENT WINDOW

Upon starting WMFCTOOL, the main window is opened, as shown in Figure 11 below. It allows the
user to perform all the principal measurement functions. In measurement mode, the user doesn’t
need to open another new window. This window is the heart of WMFCTOOL. It provides the
possibility of selecting different types of measurements (Run Mode) as well as starting the
measurements and viewing the results. Moreover, the modulation parameters can be modified. This
panel is divided into 6 areas, numbered from 1 to 6 in Figure 11.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 15

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 11 : Appearance of the Main Measurement window of WMFCTOOL

4-4-1 Modulation parameters (1)

This part allows setting the modulation parameters, such as the center
frequency of the RF modulation signal, the amplitude of the modulation,
and the number of modulation cycles per sequence. The modified
parameter is validated by pressing the <Enter> key or by selecting
another value. When one of the modulation parameters is modified, the
others are calculated using the yellow highlighted parameter as the
reference. The reference parameter can be changed by clicking on its
name.
The modulation frequencies values can have any value inside the range of the Main Unit frequency
generator. If one of modulation frequency falls outside this range, the modification is rejected and the
previous value is restored. If one of the modulation frequency parameters falls outside the Probe
Array range, it is displayed in red, meaning that NMR signals will probably not be seen.
The period of a modulation cycle, expressed in [ms], is displayed for information purposes only. The
estimated time of a measurement (without the data transfer time), in seconds, is also indicated in the
field "Measurement time".

4-4-2 Measurement parameters (2)

All the measurement parameters can be set in this part. The user can easily select the run mode
most appropriate to his set of measurements.

16 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

4-4-2-1 ‘Single’ run mode:

This mode is selected when the “Single” option is checked. The useless parameters, such as the
number of measurements, the angle indicators and the time indicators, are disabled. When the
"RUN" button of the toolbar is clicked or when the "Start" button of the Remote Control box is
pressed, the user performs a single measurement with the selected modulation parameters. After the
measurement is done, it is possible to save the data by clicking the "Save as…" menu. The default
extension of the 'single' file is .DAT.
During the measurement, the "busy" LED of the Remote Control Box and the virtual LED in the
Current Measurement window (part 5) are lit, indicating that the Probe Array must not be moved. It is
possible to stop a measurement in progress by clicking the “STOP” button of the toolbar.
A complete data set can be stored for a selected individual probe by unchecking the “No storage”
checkbox in the right side of the window, labeled "Individual NMR point." The number of the selected
probe must be entered in the field below. In this case, the NMR frequency values measured from the
NMR signal of the selected probe are recorded and displayed at the end of the regular data. This can
be used, for example, to quickly check for field drift.

) Do not select an individual probe unless needed, because it takes time to transfer the data,
especially if there are many modulation cycles.

4-4-2-2 ‘Multi’ run mode:

This mode is used to perform several measurements and save the data of each run in a specific file.
Its purpose is to map a magnetic field with a 2D Probe Array (i.e. Half moon Probe Array) or to
measure the decay of the magnet. In that case a timer triggers each run automatically. Figure 12
below shows the Main Measurement window in 'Multi' mode. Note that all the required modulation
and measurement parameters have to be set before beginning a ‘Multi’ measurement process.
In the field "Number of measurements", the user indicates the number of runs required. It is enabled
only when the box “Single” is unchecked. The box “Disable angles” causes the current measurement
to be displayed, as a number and optionally also as an angle. The interval between each angle can
be set automatically with the “Angle(°):” selector. A list of possible angles is then proposed, and the
number of measurements is automatically adapted to a complete 360° rotation (360° / chosen
angle). Finally, if the user wants to remeasure the first angle at the end of the 360° rotation, he can
select the “Back to first meas.” option.
The central part of the measurement parameters contains selectors for a timed trigger. Selecting
"Manual" permits an arbitrary amount of time between measurements. Each measurement is then
initiated with the "Run" button on the computer or "START" on the remote control box. If "Manual" is
deselected, measurements are started automatically, at the intervals given below, in the "Min" and
"Sec" fields.
When the "NEW" button is clicked, WMFCTOOL opens a window to select the name of the file where
the data will be stored. The name of the file will appear in the "Measurement File" indicator (located
in upper left corner of the window). The default extension of the 'multi' file is .DAM.
The first run (measurement) is then started by clicking the "RUN" button or by pressing the "Start"
switch of the Remote Control Box. During each run the "Busy" LED of the Remote Control Box and
the virtual LED in the Current Measurement window (part 5) are lit, indicating that the Probe Array
must not be moved.
After a measurement (run) is performed, the "busy" LEDs are turned off, the results are displayed in
the table (part 6) and the Probe Array can be moved to the next position. The next measurement is
indicated in the Current Measurement window. It displays the next measurement number or angle ,
(only if “Disable angles” is unchecked and depending on the position of the switch "angle/meas"
located in the bottom right corner) in red. The other information is then displayed in the bottom left
corner.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 17

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 12: The Measurement window in "Multi" mode.

In the field "Meas. comments", a small comment can be edited before the run. It will appear in the
header for each measurement. The “Headline comment” button allows entering a comment line
which will appear in the *.dam file header for a set of multiple measurements.
At any time during the process, it is possible to display the results of one of the previous
measurements, using the selector located below the table in the bottom right corner of the window.
Clicking on a line of this list allows displaying the measurement data for the corresponding
measurement, and also redoing the measurement if in manual mode.
Indeed, when in manual mode, it is possible to measure again (redo) any of the previous
measurements, even after the last run has been performed. Do not forget to put the Probe Array
in the position that must be re-measured (redone). In the Current Measurement window, the
upper right corner is then labeled ‘ReDo mode’. Run the measurement by clicking the “Run” button or
pressing the "Start" button of the Remote Control box. The redone measurement will replace the
previous one in the file and in the display. Click on the “Back to measurement mode” button to
continue the sequence of measurements.
Note that it is not possible to ReDo a measurement after the Multi Measurement process has been
quit using the "Stop" button of the toolbar.
The 'multi measurement' process can be aborted at any time by clicking the "Stop" button. The data
already measured are saved in the file.

) Important note about the "Individual NMR point": the history of all NMR signals on a selected
individual probe of the array can be stored. As in "single" mode, the individual data are displayed in
the "results display" and will be saved in the file.
It is strongly recommended to check the “No storage” box under “Individual NMR point :" to
avoid unnecessary data being stored and transferred.

18 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

4-4-3 Probe Array frequencies (3)

The Lowest, Central and Highest frequencies of the Probe Array are indicated in
this part.

4-4-4 Statistics about the current measurement (4)

This field displays the following information for each measurement:

• Date, time and measurement number,

• Measurement comment,
• Mean measured frequency of all probes,
• Maximum measured frequency and which probe measured it,
• Minimum measured frequency and which probe measured it,
• Difference between the minimum and maximum measured frequencies, in ppm of the mean.

4-4-5 Information about the current measurement (5)

This is where information about the current measurement is displayed. It
contains a virtual LED indicating if a measurement is in progress. The next
measurement is indicated either as the measurement number or an angle.
This selection is made with the switch in the bottom right corner of this
pane. The user has also the opportunity to insert a comment appearing in
the header for each measurement and/or to enter a comment line which
will appear in the *.dam file header for a set of multiple measurements.

4-4-6 Results tables and graphs about the current measurement (6)

This is where the results of a measurement are displayed,

either as a table or as a graph. Use the pull-down selector
in the upper left corner to choose amongst the different
display formats. If the user selects a table display, without
storing the measurements of an individual probe, the
following data are shown for each probe of the array:

• The measured NMR frequency in [MHz]. This is the average of the values of all modulation
cycles with a resolution of 0.1 Hz (or 1Hz if the MFC3035 file format has been selected in the
Preferences… window).
• The RMS value is the standard deviation of all the NMR frequency values, one per valid
modulation cycle (see below). The RMS is given in [Hz] with 0.1Hz resolution (or 1Hz if the
MFC3035 file format has been selected in the Preferences… window).

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 19

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

• The number of valid modulation cycles. On each modulation cycle two NMR signals are
obtained (one on the rising ramp and one on the falling ramp). If this pair of signals is not in a
given tolerance, the value of that modulation cycle is discarded. The number of valid
modulation cycles is the total number of modulation cycles taken into account for the final
field value. (See section 1-3 page 3.)
Since this window does not require communications with the MFC-3045 system – the Main Unit may
be On or Off, or even absent – it is possible to look at a previous measure or set of measures via the
“Open…” menu, A window is then opened to choose a MFC3045 data file (either a .DAT or .DAM
file).
The "Print" menu can be used to print the data on the default printer.
The button "Large display" allows the data to be displayed in an enlarged view in a separate window.
A more detailed description of this window is provided in section 4-4-7, page 20.

4-4-7 Large Display window

This is a window allowing the user to display the results of a measure in an enlarged view in a
separate window.
The data are available in ASCII and in graphical form. Use the pull-down selector in the upper left
corner to select the different kinds of display format.
The button "Cancel" will quit the Large Display window and go back to the main measurement
window.
When the data of a 'Multi' measurement (.DAM) are displayed graphically, a selector located at the
bottom of the window is used to select which measurement is displayed. Click on the measurement
to be displayed. You can <shift>-click and drag the mouse through the list to quickly select several
measurements.
The curves are displayed in different colors to enhance the readability. The corresponding color of
each curve is indicated on the left of "Measurements" selector.

Graph legend box

Tool palette

Figure 13 : Data Display window

In graphic format, a mouse-click on the "Graph legend box" opens a pop-up menu where color, line
and dot style can be changed for each curve. The “Tool palette” can be used to zoom, pan, change
the format of X or Y scale, autoscale or change the units (see details below). The first measurement

20 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

selected in the "Measurement" selector list is attributed to Plot 0, the second one to Plot 1, and so
on.

"Tool palette" description:

You can choose the units of the Y scale. The values are in MHz (in Hz in the case of the
"individual probe diff|cycle") or in ppm depending the position of the switch shown at the
left. The ppm are relative to a base line indicated below the graph. The base line is
calculated as the average of the highest and the lowest NMR frequency values. The
baseline value can be changed.

If you press the X Autoscale button, shown at the top, the graph autoscales the X axis. If
you press the Y Autoscale button, shown at the bottom, the graph autoscales the Y axis.
If you want the graph to continuously autoscale either of the axes, click the lock switch,
shown at the left, to lock autoscaling On.

By using the Scale Format buttons, shown at the left, you can maintain control of the
format of the X and Y scale respectively.

Not used. This button has no effect.

If you press the Panning button, shown at the left, you switch to a mode in which you can
scroll the visible data by clicking and dragging the plot area of the graph.

If you press the Zoom button, show at the left, you can zoom in or out on the graph. If you
click on the Zoom button, you see a pop-up menu to choose the methods of zooming. A
description of each of the methods follows:

Zoom by rectangle. Click on the area of the plot you want to zoom and drag the
rectangle. When the mouse button is released, the zoom is performed.

Zoom by rectangle with zoom restricted to X data (the Y scale remains unchanged) or to
Y data (the X scale remains unchanged).

Undo last zoom. Reset the graph to its previous setting.

Zoom in about a point. If you hold down the mouse on a specific point, the graph
continuously zooms in until you release the mouse button. (<Shift>-clicking zooms in the
other direction.)

Zoom out about a point. If you hold down the mouse on a specific point, the graph
continuously zooms out until you release the mouse button. (<Shift>-clicking zooms in
the other direction.)
Note: to zoom out quickly, click on the X and Y autoscale buttons.

4-5 MENUS AND COMMANDS

4-5-1 The Toolbar

The toolbar contains four buttons:

• New:
Same as the “Operate / New” menu item. Starts a new measurement. Only available if
“Single” run mode is disabled. Automatically opens a “File / Save as” dialog.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 21

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

• Run:
Same as the “Operate / Run/Redo” menu item. Launches a measurement. Unless “Single”
run mode is enabled, only available after a “New.”
• Stop:
Same as the “Operate / Cancel measurement” menu item. Cancels the measurement in
progress, or, in the “Multi” run mode, cancels the measurement sequence.
• Preferences;
Same as the “Options / Preferences” menu item. Opens the Preferences window.

4-5-2 File menu

4-5-2-1 Open
Opens a “Single” (.dat) or “Multi” (.dam) measurement data file.

4-5-2-2 Save as
Save a “Single” (.dat) measurement data file.

4-5-2-3 Print
Prints the current measurement results table or graph (part 6 of the main window).

4-5-2-4 Exit
Quits WMFCTOOL.

4-5-3 Operate menu

4-5-3-1 New
Same as the New button. Starts a new measurement. Only available if “Single” run mode is disabled.
Automatically opens a “File / Save as” dialog.

4-5-3-2 Run/Redo
Same as the Run button. Launches a measurement. Unless “Single” run mode is enabled, only
available after a “New.”

4-5-3-3 Cancel measurement

Same as the Stop button. Cancels the measurement in progress, or, in the “Multi” run mode, cancels
the measurement sequence.

4-5-3-4 Search mode

‘Search’ mode is similar to 'Single' mode (see above), but the 'Search' mode does not use the
current measurement parameters. Instead, 'Search' mode uses parameters that cover the entire
frequency range of the Probe Array. This allows the user to find the magnetic field value if it is not
well known. The cost of the short time necessary for the 'Search' is lower accuracy and resolution.
Also, some of the probes can give a 0 (zero) value. The purpose of the 'Search' mode is to find the
magnetic field value, thus the value given by one of the probes will be used to set the "Modulation
Parameters". In order to do an accurate measurement, use the 'Single' or 'Multi' mode. The 'search'
should never be used for measurement.
Selecting the “Operate / Search mode” menu item will open the Search mode window (see Figure
14). Start the ‘Search’ procedure by clicking on the button labeled “Start Search”. To interrupt the
search process or to close the window before the search starts, simply click on the “Break/Cancel”
button.

22 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Once the search has completed, the field “Peak to peak field discrepency [ppm] :” displays the
difference between the minimum and maximum frequencies measured by the different probes in the
Probe Array. The “Mean frequency [MHz] :” indicates the mean of all frequencies measured by the
different probes in the Probe Array.
Then, in the bottom of the panel, the user has two possibilities:
• Close this window without updating the modulation amplitude and central frequency;
• Update the modulation amplitude and central frequency in the main measurement panel and
close this window. The parameters are those proposed above, based on the results of the
search procedure.

Figure 14 : Search mode window

4-5-3-5 Run continuously

This mode puts the MFC-3045 into a continuous measurement. No data will be acquired.
The 'continuous' mode is only used for diagnostics and allows looking at the NMR signals with an
oscilloscope.
After selecting the “Operate / Run continuously” menu item, the continuous mode is automatically
set. The message “Continuous mode active” is displayed in red at the bottom of the Current
measurement section. A click on the "Stop" button of the toolbar stops it.

4-5-3-6 Hunt mode

This mode selects either the average of the values measured on all NMR probes or one of the NMR
probes, and uses it to track the magnetic field over the entire Probe Array frequency range.
Selecting the “Operate / Hunt mode” menu item opens the Hunt mode window (see Figure 15). The
field value measured by the probe(s) is available in units of Tesla or MHz. A zero value indicates that
the value of the magnetic field has not yet been found or is outside the Probe Array range or that the
NMR signal is too weak due to the lack of field uniformity. The magnetic field is tracked continuously
as long as the Hunt mode window is displayed.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 23

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 15 : Hunt mode window

4-5-4 Options menu

4-5-4-1 Preferences
Selecting the “Options / Preferences” menu item opens the Preferences window (see Figure 16, left).
The “Save options” allows an automatic save of any single measurement. If not checked, single
measurements must be saved manually.
The "File Format" radio buttons select the file format in which the measurement data will be stored.
In the 'MFC 3035' mode, the data files are compatible with those created using an MFC-3035 system
with the DOS version of MFCTOOL. The resolution of the data is 1Hz, whereas the 'WMFCTOOL
v8.0' mode causes the data to be saved with an additional digit (dHz). The 'WMFCTOOL v9.0' mode
is the same as the 'WMFCTOOL v8.0' mode, but it includes additional parameters and facilitates
importing the data file into Excel.
The "Default directory" is the default location for files to be saved or loaded. Use the "Browse…"
button to select a different directory. When the directory has been selected, use the button "Select
cur dir" to validate the new selected directory.
If the ENABLED box of the "Advanced options" is checked, all the possibilities of the Advanced menu
are enabled. This gives access to the Advanced menu items, including “Low Level commands,”
“Calibration,” “Normalisation,” “EEPROM utilities” and “FirmWare update” (see page 27, Chapter 5-
The Advanced menu). Enabling the Advanced menu requires a password. The default password is
“map-mag”. By pressing the Modify button, the user may define an additional, custom password.

4-5-4-2 Serial port

Selecting the “Options / Serial port” menu item opens the Serial port window (see Figure 16, right),
which allows the user to modify the RS-232 settings.
The Serial port selects the port to be used to communicate with the Main Unit.
The “Baud rate,” “Parity,” “Stop Bits,” “Data bits” and “HW handshake” are used to set up the usual
RS-232 communication parameters. The "Wr/Rd delay" can be increased up to 100ms if the data
sent by the MFC3045 seems to be garbled. These parameters can only be modified if the ENABLED
box of the “Advanced options” in the Preferences window (see page 24, Section 4-5-4-1,
Preferences) is checked.

24 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 16 : Preferences… and Serial Port… window

If the RS-232 parameters have been modified when the Serial port window is closed using the "OK"
button, the RS-232 parameters of the MFC-3045 Main Unit are changed accordingly. It is strongly
recommended to put a label on the Main Unit indicating the chosen parameters. The new set of RS-
232 parameters is made permanent.

) If for any reason it is no longer possible to establish communication, one can press the "Default"
button and restore the default parameters of the MFC-3045 Main Unit by proceeding as follows:
• Push the "Start" button of the Remote Box and HOLD it down
• Push briefly the "Reset" button (i.e. with a pencil), the "Busy" LED will blink about 8 sec. then
will switch off.
• Only at that time the "Start" button can be released. The default RS-232 parameters are
restored in the MFC-3045 Main Unit. If the "Start" button is released when the "Busy" LED is
still blinking, the previous RS-232 parameters are kept.

4-5-5 Advanced menu

When the "Advanced options" box in the Preferences window is checked (see section 4-4-7, page
20), all the possibilities of the Advanced menu are enabled. This gives access to the Low Level
commands as well as other functions such as the Calibration, Normalisation, EEPROM utilities or
FirmWare update menus. The 'Advanced options' are described in the Part B (page 21) of this user's
manual.

4-5-6 Help menu

This menu contains two possibilities: About… opens a window providing information about the serial
and version numbers of the Probe Array, the Main Unit and the software. It can also be used to
check the RS-232C link. Help opens a window that shows automatically the help available for the
object pointed by the mouse (i.e. button, graph, displays).
The Help window can be opened at any time by pressing the keys <control> and <H>
simultaneously (Ctrl-H).

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 25

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

26 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Technical Topics

5- THE ADVANCED MENU

If the "ENABLED" box in the Preferences window (see section 4-4-7 page 20) has been enabled, the
options of the “Advanced” menu are available.
Note: the default password is: map-mag
The Advanced functions are described hereafter.

5-1 ADVANCED FUNCTION: LOW LEVEL COMMANDS WINDOW

This window allows a direct communication with the MFC-3045 Main Unit. Any string of characters
written in the Low Level Commands window will be sent to the MFC-3045 when the <Enter> key is
pressed. In addition, all the characters sent by the MFC-3045 will be displayed on the screen.
The purpose of the Low Level Commands window is to send basic commands to the MFC-3045 for
test or diagnostics. The basic set of MFC-3045 commands is described in chapter 6-page 31.

5-2 ADVANCED FUNCTION: M-U CALIBRATION

The Main Unit needs to be calibrated every 12 months. The Calibration window will assist the user
for the complete calibration process of the Main Unit.
The calibration process is described in detail in chapter 6-page 31.

5-3 ADVANCED FUNCTION: P-A NORMALISATION

The Probe Array as well as the Main Unit need to be normalised every 12 months. The Normalisation
window will assist the user for the complete normalisation process of the Probe Array.
The normalisation process is described in detail in chapter 6-page 31.

5-4 ADVANCED FUNCTION: EEPROM UTILITIES

To store the system settings, there is a non-volatile memory (an EEPROM) in the Main Unit as well as
in the Probe Array. The EEPROM Utilities menu is used to read and modify the EEPROMS. The two
windows “Probe Array…” and “Main Unit…” are organized similarly.
The EEPROM’s content is automatically read at the opening of the window. It has the same effect as
the "Read” button in the EEPROM panel: display the EEPROM’s content in the window.
To modify a value, click in the corresponding entry in the table and edit it. Click on the "Write” button
in the EEPROM panel to store the modifications into the EEPROM. WMFCTOOL always asks for a file
name to backup the new data. Then the data are written simultaneously to the EEPROM and to the
file.
The "Load” and “Save” buttons in the File panel are used to load a EEPROM data file into the table
and to save the data in a file.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 27

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

It is possible to enter comments in the “Comment” box, but the line must start with a [ character. The
comments are saved in the data file only (not into the EEPROM).

Figure 17 EEPROM Utilities window

WARNING: A good understanding OF THE MFC-3045 SYSTEM IS NECESSARY BEFORE

MODIFYING THE EEPROM memory.
WRONG VALUE(s) CAN RENDER THE PROBE ARRAY OR MAIN UNIT UNUSABLE!

5-5 ADVANCED FUNCTION: UPDATE FIRMWARE

This window is used for upgrading the MFC-3045 Firmware.
In order to keep the MFC-3045 system up to date, the Memory containing the FirmWare of the
system can be updated with a newer version. The FirmWare file is a Motorola format ASCII file.
Once it is downloaded to the user’s PC, it can be loaded into WMFCTOOL by clicking on "Open FW
file" button in the Update FirmWare window (available through the Advanced menu). The present
version of the MFC-3045 FirmWare and the version of the FirmWare file are both displayed on the
screen.
The MFC-3045 FirmWare will be updated by clicking on the "Update" button. The process can take
several minutes and a scrolling bar indicates its progress.
If for any reason the system fails during the FirmWare update (i.e. power lost), the process has to be
started again. But because the FirmWare memory has been deleted, the MFC-3045 runs with a
minimal “boot” firmware. This means that the RS-232 parameters have to be set to their default
values in WMFCTOOL.
So, first go to the Preferences window, check the “ENABLED” box if it is not already checked. Then
open the Serial port window, and click on the "Default" button. Then exit the Serial port window and
select "About…" in the Help menu. The message “MFC-3045, Flash PROM erased” should appear
in the “MFC3045 Firmware version” box. This means that RS-232 communication has been
established. Then go to the Update FirmWare window and try again to load the FirmWare file to
update the MFC-3045.
Once the FirmWare is successfully updated, WMFCTOOL has to be started again.

28 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 18 : The Update firmware window before beginning the process

)
Note: Only FirmWare Version 2.00 or higher can be updated with WMFCTOOL. To update a lower
FirmWare version, the FirmWare memory inside the Main Unit must be replaced.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 29

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

30 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

6- MFC-3045 CALIBRATION ; PROBE ARRAY NORMALISATION

6-1 GENERAL
The procedure described below corresponds to the calibration of the Main Unit MFC-3045 and the
normalisation of the Probe Array MFC-3048.
The calibration of the Main Unit MFC-3045 as well as the Probe Array normalisation must be done
every 12 months.
These two calibrations can be performed separately or sequentially.
For the Main Unit, the calibration consists only in verifying and adjusting the reference frequency of
the local quartz oscillator, if necessary.
The Probe Array does not need to be calibrated against a standard, since the NMR signal results
from a physical phenomenon and cannot be adjusted. However, each probe of the array measures
the magnetic field with a small discrepancy due to the paramagnetic materials surrounding the probe.
The purpose of the normalisation is to reduce the discrepancies to a few tenths of a ppm.
The normalisation of the Probe Array consists of placing each probe in the same homogenous and
stable location in a superconducting magnet, in order to record the response to the magnetic field.
After the last measurement, the mean value of these records is calculated. Then a correction value
proportional to the difference between the individual responses and the mean value is assigned to
each probe. This allows eliminating the small discrepancies between the individual probe responses.
The WMFCTOOL software v8.0 or higher allows the complete calibration and normalisation
operations to be performed in a short time and with user friendly aids, such as a record reminder or
possibility of correction of an erratic point.

6-2 USING WMFCTOOL V9.0 FOR CALIBRATION

First, power on the MFC-3045 unit and allow a 10 minute warm up period to allow the oscillator to
stabilize completely.
Then start WMFCTOOL and select either the “M-U calibration” menu or the “P-A normalisation”
menu.

Please note that to access the Advanced menu, the "ENABLED" button must be checked in the
Preferences window. A password is required to enable the advanced options.

6-3 MAIN UNIT CALIBRATION

6-3-1 Necessary components

The components needed to perform this calibration are as follows:
• The MFC-3045 Main Unit to be calibrated, with its power supply
• WMFCTOOL software v9.0 installed on a PC running Windows 98/NT4 or later.
• A Frequency counter to be used as a standard to calibrate the MFC-3045 local oscillator. (It
needs to measure 10MHz with a precision of better than ±0.1Hz)
Note: WMFCTOOL v8.0 can also be used for calibration, but the user has to refer to the MFC-3045
User’s manual Version 2.0

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 31

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

6-3-2 The calibration process

This procedure is used to precisely calibrate the local oscillator of the MFC-3045 Main Unit in order
to obtain precise absolute values in field measurements. For this reason, it is necessary to let the
) oscillator warm up for at least 10 minutes.
There are no other components to calibrate in the Main Unit.
Opening the Calibration of Main Unit window causees the Main Unit to generate a 10 MHz reference
signal. This signal, available on the “RF Probe Array” (Lemo 2p, size 2) connector of the Main Unit,
can then be measured with the external frequency counter.

Figure 19 : Main Unit calibration window

The measured frequency must be:

±2Hz with the 'D' option *

10.000'000MHz
±5Hz with the 'M' option *

If the frequency is not in the tolerance, the oscillator must be trimmed by removing the top cover of
the Main Unit (10 M4 screws with a hexagonal male 3mm wrench) and acting on the multiturn
potentiometer placed next to the 20 MHz quartz oscillator, as shown in the photograph below.

*: the 'D' (Decay) option is an oven controlled quartz oscillator

the 'M' option is a temperature compensated quartz oscillator.

Figure 20 : View of the 20 MHz Quartz oscillator and trimming potentiometer on its right

32 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Allow the oscillator to stabilize before a new frequency measurement (about 2 minutes), then repeat
the trimming operation if necessary.
After the calibration is done, close the cover and quit the calibration routine by clicking on the
"DONE" button. This will update the calibration date in the Main Unit EEPROM.
Click on the "Cancel" button to quit the calibration routine without updating the calibration date.

6-4 PROBE ARRAY NORMALISATION

6-4-1 Necessary components

The components needed to perform this calibration are as follows:
• The Probe Array MFC-3048 to be normalised.
• The MFC-3045 Main Unit with its power supply.
• The Remote Control box.
• WMFCTOOL software v9.0 installed into a PC station under Windows 98/NT4 or later.
• A Positioning Guide corresponding exactly to the specification of the Probe Array. The
name of this guide is « HMxx-yyy », where xx = number of probes and yyy = diameter [mm]
of the Probe Array.
• A solenoid superconducting magnet set to the nominal field value of the Probe Array.
Note: WMFCTOOL v8.0 can also be used for calibration, but the user has to refer to the MFC-3045
User’s manual Version 2.0

6-4-2 Physical installation of probe array

After connecting the previous elements, the main preparation consists in placing the positioning
guide in the magnet so that the place labeled “CENTER” (corresponding to the measurement site) is
in a homogenous region of the magnet, approximately in the center of magnetic field.
A second precaution is to orient the positioning guide in such a way that the diameter of the Probe
Array is parallel to the magnetic axis, exactly the same way the Probe Array will be normally used.
The Probe Array is put on the position 1 of the positioning guide. Now the system is in place to begin
the normalisation process. After the first measurement, the Probe Array will be moved to the next
position, and so on until all the probes of the array have been measured at the same place in the
magnetic field.

6-4-3 Before normalising the Probe Array

Before beginning the normalisation, several items require particular attention:

) • It is strongly recommended that the content of the Probe Array EEPROM be backed up. To
do so, go in the EEPROM Utilities and P-A EEPROM window, read the EEPROM and then
save its content in a file. (See section 5-4, page 27.)

) • The amplitude (MDA), the central frequency (MCF) and the number of cycles (NCY) of the
modulation need to be verified. Note that these three parameters are automatically set at
those previously used in the main measurement window. A 'single' measurement is a good
way to check that the parameters are correct. However, be aware that some probes will
probably give 0 (zero) values because the Probe Array is not centered in the magnetic field
(only probe 1 is). So check the value measured by probe 1 and adjust the "Modulation
Central Frequency" to that value. A modulation amplitude of 1000 ppm and 60 modulation
cycles are recommended.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 33

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

• The indicator “Relative measurement tolerance [ppm] ± :” shows the required tolerance of
) the Probe Array. A value of ± 0.20 ppm is recommended, which means that all the residual
errors, (magnetic field value (BFV) - target field value), should be in a 0.4 ppm peak-to-peak
range. If the measured variations amongst all probes are less than this number, the probe
array is considered to pass the normalisation. In this case, the status message in the "Data"
window will display PASS (NOT FINISHED)," or, once all the probes have been measured,
"PASS." If the measurements diverge more than this tolerance, the message "OUT OF
TOLERANCE" will be displayed. This indicator can be modified whenever the user wants,
even after the beginning of the normalisation process.
• It is possible to rearrange the order in which the probes are measured by pressing the
“Change measurement order :” button. The window shown on Figure 21 is then opened.
This step is clearly optional. It is used only when, to facilitate the normalisation process,
measurements are performed in a sequence different from the normal numbering of the
probes (corresponding to the Number displayed on the positioning guide for each position).
The left column of the table corresponds to the sequence of measurements of the
normalisation process. The right column is the probe number associated with the
measurement number. To edit the table, click on a probe number that should be modified
and enter a new probe number.
The "Default" button allows the entire table to be reset to its default setting, where the probes
numbers correspond to the measurement sequence.
The "Cancel" button will discard the modification and exit the window. When clicking on the
"Done" button, the probe order is memorized, and the normalisation as well as the
verification will be done with that order. The measurement order is saved with the other
WMFCTOOL settings. That means that when WMFCTOOL is started again, the previous

) measurement order is restored. However, it should be checked.

The buttons "Load" and "Save" are used respectively to load in WMFCTOOL a previously
saved measurement sequence and to save a measurement sequence in a file.

Figure 21 : Probe measurement order window

6-4-3-1 Normalisation of the Probe Array

During the normalisation process, each probe of the array will be measured at the same position in
the magnet.
The Probe Array normalisation window is very similar to the main measurement window. On the left
side, the “Current measurement” part is an indicator showing the next probe to be measured. The
virtual LED located in this indicator has the same function as the "Busy" LED on the Remote Control
Box – it is red to indicate when the system is measuring, which means that the Probe Array must not
be moved.
In the section on the right, “Data,” the first column in the the main table shows the probe numbers in
the sequence defined in the Probes Order window. The second column shows the correction values
for each probe, displayed in decihertz [dHz] (this is, in fact, the correction table stored in the Probe

34 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Array EEPROM before the normalisation process). The third column indicates the corrected
magnetic field value measured by each probe, in [MHz]. The last column is the remaining error
relative to the “Target value”, expressed in [ppm].
On the top left corner of the table, there is a pull-down selector to choose between the display of the
table described above (Numerical field values), the graph of the correction values (Graph of the
correction table) or the graph of the residual errors (Graph of NMR frequencies - Target value [ppm]).
This last option permits a rapid evaluation of the normalisation quality. The display can be changed
during the measurement process. With the graphs, the zoom and pan functions are available through
the "tool palette" as explained for the Large Display window (refer to section 4-4-7 at page 21).

Figure 22 : 'Probe Array normalisation' window during the process.

With the MFC-3048 Probe Array in the first position of the positioning guide (properly installed in the
magnet), click the button "Run" on the toolbar or press the “Start" button of the Remote Control box.
The magnetic field is then measured and its value stored for this probe.
Position the Probe Array at the next position and start the measurement for the next probe. Repeat
this sequence until all probes of the array have been measured.
At any time, clicking on the "CANCEL" button will quit the Normalisation window - but no data will
be stored and the measurements are lost.
At any time, it is also possible to store the data in an ASCII file with the extension ".nrm" by clicking
on the "Save to file" button.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 35

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Figure 23 : Graphical display of remaining errors in [ppm]

Initially, the target value in the field “Target value [MHz] :” is set to 0. Thus the residual error (the
difference between the magnetic field value measured by a given probe, BFV, and the Target value,
expressed in ppm of the Target value) will be infinite. To avoid this, the user can either enter the
required magnetic field value in [MHz] or wait for the result of the first measured probe. Then, clicking
on the “Set to average” button will update the target value with the first value. Note that pressing this
button at any time will set the target value to the average measured by the probes so far, and will
then recompute all BFV-Target values in the table with this new target value.
At any time during the process, it is also possible to redo one of the preceding measures by selecting
(click on it) the corresponding line in the table or changing the field “to probe” in the upper part of
“Data”. Then click "Run" again, or press the “Start" button of the Remote Control box. But do not

) forget to put the Probe Array in the corresponding position on the guide.
After the last measurement is done, a window is opened and proposes a target value (if different
from the target value already set), which is the mean value of the whole set of probe measurements.
The user can accept or reject this new target value.
When all probes have been measured, the "Normalisation" and "Update EEPROM and exit"
buttons become available.
• If the Probe Array passes the normalisation (“PASS” displayed in green above the table), the
user can press the “Update EEPROM and exit” button. The normalisation window is
automatically closed and a dialog window pops up to enter the name of a file where the data
will be saved. The normalisation date is saved in the Probe Array EEPROM – this is why it is

) very important to not switch off the Main Unit or disconnect the Probe Array before
exiting the “Probe Array normalisation” window.
• If one or a few points are erratic, it is possible to correct them. Erratic points may be due to a
magnetic or electrical perturbation, or due to an incorrect Probe Array position during the
normalisation or verification measurement(s) of the relevant probe(s). In that case, select the
erratic probe with a mouse-click on its line in the table (‘Numerical field values’). The line will
be highlighted in yellow. If the graph of residual errors (' Graph of NMR frequencies - Target
value [ppm]') is displayed, the erratic probe can be selected using the “to probe” field in the
upper part of “Data”. Then put the Probe Array in the corresponding position on the

) guide and redo the measurement. If the error is confirmed, it is possible to modify the
correction value of that probe in the editing box labeled “Correction value” (it is not possible
to modify the value directly in the table). Note that it is possible to modify the correction value
either in [dHz] or in [ppm] (of the target value). Then redo the measurement again.
When satisfied, the user can press the “Update EEPROM and exit” button, as described
above.

36 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

• If the residual errors show a global discrepancy, the Probe Array needs to be (re)normalised.
Pressing the “Normalisation” button computes new correction values for each probe, in order
to make all probes measure the target value. When pressed, the 'NMR f' and 'BFV-Target'
columns are cleared, the first probe is selected, the modification of the correction values is
saved into the Probe Array EEPROM and you are ready to start verification. The process is
then exactly the same as previously described.
After the verification, if remaining errors show a global discrepancy, then the whole
normalisation of the Probe Array should be repeated only after finding and eliminating the
possible external cause of this variation.
• Once the Probe Array is normalised, it is advisable to use the Probe-Array EEPROM utilities
menu to save the new correction table in a file, as a backup of the EEPROM.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 37

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

38 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7- MFC-3045 BASIC COMMANDS

7-1 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

The MFC-3045 is controlled with a set of commands sent by a computer via a RS-232C link. An
MFC-3045 command consists of 3 ASCII characters (which are the command mnemonic) followed
either by a terminator or by a comma, a decimal number (the parameter) and a terminator. The
terminator consists of either the 2 characters ‘Carriage-Return and Line-Feed’ <CR-LF> or of a
semicolon <;>. The semicolon terminator is used to send several commands on one line. Generally a
command without parameter is a ‘Read’ Command, meaning that the MFC-3045 sends back a
message, while a command with a parameter is a ‘Write’ command. Unless otherwise noted, the
‘Read’ command allows the user to read back the current value of the affected parameter.
The MFC-3045 is not case sensitive and all the commands can be in either upper or lower case.
Some commands are called “Advanced commands”, which means that they are available only after
the Advanced mode has been enabled using the ADV command. The advanced commands are
special commands that are not needed in regular operation. The valid range of values for some
regular commands is extended when the advanced mode is enabled. There are two levels of
Advanced mode (see description of command ADV); the second level allows the users to modify the
settings stored in non-volatile memory (EEPROM) of the Probe Array or Main Unit. Good
understanding of the system is necessary before modifying the EEPROM settings!
The advanced modes do not correspond directly to the “advanced” menu of WMFCTOOL.
The next sections describe all the commands of the MFC-3045 firmware. The following conventions
are used:
() : indicates typical values (can be different).
[] : indicates commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)
{} : indicates commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)
# : indicates that the setting can be changed in the EEPROM (if Advanced mode level 2 is enabled)
P-A : indicates that the setting depends of the Probe Array.
NP : indicates that the value or setting corresponds to the number of NMR probes in the Probe Array.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 39

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-2 MODULATION PARAMETERS

The NMR probes are excited with a frequency modulated Radio Frequency (RF) signal. The “shape"
of the modulation signal is given by a set of commands called “Modulation parameter commands”.
Some of these parameters are independent (i.e. MDA, MCF). Some are semi-independent, meaning
that the actual value can be different (to fit the other parameters) than the value set by the command
(i.e. MDP), and some are dependant, meaning that their values are calculated by the MFC-3045 and
cannot be changed. (i.e. NSR).

Figure 24 : Shape of the Modulation Signal

40 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

MDA MDA,x Modulation amplitude: Total amplitude (peak to peak) of 200 | Entire P-A# (1000)
the frequency modulation sent to the NMR probes in ppm P-A range
of the Probe Array Central Frequency (PCF) [1 | 224]

Modulation Central Frequency: This is the central

MCF MCF,x 1 | 308 MHz P-A
frequency of the modulation signal. In decihertz [dHz].

MLF MLF,x Modulation lowest frequency: This is the frequency of the 1 | 308 MHz P-A
bottom plateau of the modulation signal. In [dHz].

MHF MHF,x Modulation highest frequency: This is the frequency of the 1 | 308 MHz P-A
top plateau of the modulation signal. In [dHz].

Modulation Reference: When a modulation parameter is

MRE MRE,x 0|3 0#
changed, the reference is taken to calculate the other
parameters.

x Ref. param. Note

0 MDA (a)

1 MCF (b)

2 MLF (b)

3 MHF (b)
Notes: (a) MCF is the reference if MDA is changed
(b) MDA is the reference if the present parameter is changed

Modulation period: The period of a frequency modulation

MDP [MDP,x] 1 | 216 P-A# (60)
cycle, in ms. If necessary, the MFC-3045 will change the
period to fit the other modulation parameters. Therefore
the actual period can be different than the set or default
value.

[NSR] Number of steps for ramp modulation --- ---

[NSP] Number of steps for plateau modulation --- ---

DDS Bit resolution: returns the resolution of the RF steps

[DBR] --- ---
during ramping up and down. The resolution of a
measurement is 1 decihertz [dHz] or given by the
following formula, whichever is the largest.
0.256•(x+1)•H [dHz]
where ‘x’ is the value returned by DBR command
‘H’ is the RF harmonic number used by the
Probe Array (1, 3, 5 or 7)

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more).

P-A : Depends of the Probe Array.
() : Standard values (can be different).
# : Value can be changed in the EEPROM (Advanced commands level 2)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 41

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-3 MEASUREMENT PARAMETERS

READ WRITE Description Min/Max Defaults

NCY NCY,x Number of measurement (or modulation) cycles. 2 | 1’500 P-A# (80)

Number of preliminary cycles: Before any

NPC {NPC,x} 0 | 100 P-A# (12)
measurement, the MFC-3045 performs dummy
cycles allowing the NMR signal to stabilize. This
command reads / writes the maximum number of
preliminary cycles. The real number of cycles is
NPC or NPT (see below) divided by the period of
modulation (MDP), whichever is greater.

Time duration of preliminary cycles: This is the

NPT {NPT,x} 0 | 30’000 P-A# (600)
maximum time duration in [ms] of the preliminary
cycles. This value divided by the modulation period
(MDP) gives the number of preliminary cycles.
However, the number of preliminary cycles is never
less than defined by the command NPC (see
above).

Rejection Signal Offset: This gives the offset

RSO [RSO,x] 1 | 20’000 P-A#
between the NMR signals of the ramps up and
down. In ppm of the Probe Array Central
Frequency.

Rejection Signal Gap: A measurement cycle is

RSG [RSG,x] 1 | 1’000 P-A# (40)
discarded from the statistics if the NMR signals of
the up and down ramps are not in the Gap given by
this command. In ppm of the Probe Array Central
Frequency.

Time versus Precision: The time to do a

TVP TVP,x 0|1 0#
measurement with high modulation amplitude can
be decreased by a factor 2 to 4. However the
measurement resolution will be lower by the same
factor.

0 = Maximum precision, longer time

1 = Shorter time, lower precision

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)
P-A : Depends of the Probe Array.
() : Standard values (can be different).
# : Value can be changed in the EEPROM (Advanced commands level 2)

42 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-4 DATA ACQUISITION (MEASUREMENT)

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

Starts a measurement (NCY cycles of the

RUN 0 | NP 0
frequency modulation) using the modulation
RUN,x
parameters previously set. The magnetic field
value on each NMR point will be measured and
stored.

‘x’ = 1 to Number of points of the P-A: all

individual NMR frequencies of the selected
measurement point will also be stored.
If ‘x’ = 0 or absent, no individual storage will
be performed.

Search over the full range of the Probe Array:

SRC 0 | NP 0
SRC is similar to the RUN command (see above)
SRC,x
except that the MFC-3045 selects a value of
modulation amplitude to cover the entire range of
the Probe Array. It also selects a fewer number of
modulation cycles and low precision (TVP,1) to
shorten the measurement time. The purpose of
this command is to quickly find the magnetic field
value at the price of lower precision than a regular
measurement. The parameter ‘x’ has the same
effect as with the RUN command (see above).

Continuous measurement: Start a measurement

CTN --- ---
using the modulation parameters previously set.
The continuous measurement does not stop
(infinite modulation cycles), and must be stopped
using the command BRK. A new set of field values
is available after each cycle and must be read
during the measurement. Only the field value can
be read. No statistics are available.

Break: This command interrupts any mode of data

BRK --- ---
acquisition. In this case no data is available. This
command also interrupts the data transfer when it
is done in block mode (see BLK)

NP : Number of NMR probes (measurement points)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 43

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-5 DATA READING

The data are available at the end of a measurement made with « RUN » or « SRC ». Status is set
when the data are available. The data are returned sequentially from NMR point #1 to #n. There are
several modes of data transfer, as determined by the BLK command and the syntax of the ‘data
reading’ command. In the following explanation, the reading of the magnetic field value (BFV) is
taken as an example.

7-5-1 After a « RUN » or a Search « SRC » :

Although the following explanations describe the « BFV » command, exactly the same process is
used for the « BSD » (standard deviation), « BNC » (number of valid cycles) and « BIN » (individual
NMR frequency) commands.
a) Random access:

By adding a measurement point number as parameter of a data reading command, the MFC-3045
will return the decimal value of the selected measurement point, regardless of the block mode
selected with the command « BLK ».
Example:
BFV,x Where ‘x’ is 1 to NP (NP is the number of NMR probes of the Probe Array): returns the
magnetic field value for the probe #x. If the block mode is 0 (BLK,0) this will also set the
pointer to the next measurement point (x+1).
BFV,0 Has no effect with block mode 1 or 2 (BLK,1 or BLK,2). It resets the sequential read
pointer to the probe #1 if block mode 0 (BLK,0) is used.

b) One-by-one mode (BLK,0)

The values are read one at a time. When a read command (BFV) without parameters is received by
the MFC-3045, it returns one decimal value. The next read command will return the value of the next
measurement point. Thus the set of data will be read sequentially from measurement point #1 to the
last one. When all the values have been read, a new read command will return the ASCII character
17 (CTRL-W) and the measurement point #1 will be selected again.
Example:
BFV↵ returns the magnetic field value of one measurement point and point to the next one.

c) Decimal block (BLK,1)

All values are returned in one block of data at the reception of a data read command without
parameters. Each data point is in decimal ASCII characters terminated by a <CR><LF> (leading
zeros are not sent). An ASCII character #17 (CTRL-W) follows the last data value. The data for
measurement point #1 is sent first, followed by the remaining data in the order of the measurement
points.
Example :
BFV↵ returns the magnetic field values of all NMR probes in one block of data: decimal values
separated by <CR><LF>.

d) Hexadecimal block (BLK,2)

All values are returned in one block of data at the reception of a data read command without
parameters. Each data point consists of 8 (or 4) ASCII characters of a hexadecimal number (0-9 ;
A-F). There is no separator between values. The checksum (modulo 16 bits => 4 characters) is sent
after the last data point. The checksum itself is not included in the checksum. The number of
characters returned is: Number of measurement points * 8 (or 4, see BNC command) + 4 (check-
sum)
BFV↵ returns the magnetic field values of all NMR probes, plus a check-sum, into one
hexadecimal block of data.

44 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

Data transfer Block Mode:

BLK BLK,x
0|2 0
0 = One-by-one mode. The values are
returned sequentially one by one,
1 = Decimal block mode. The data,
separated by <CR><LF>, are returned in
one block of decimal values.
2 = Hexadecimal block mode. The data are
returned in one block of hexadecimal
values. Each value is 4 or 8 characters.
There is no separator between values.

Note: BRK stops the transfer of data when in block

mode.

BFV Magnetic (B) field value: The magnetic field value 0 | NP ---
BFV,x in decihertz [dHz] for each measurement point. The
values are returned according to the Data Reading
Mode. (see section 7-5-1 above)
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.
There are 8 hexadecimal characters for each value
when in Hexadecimal Block Mode.

BSD Standard deviation on each NMR frequency 0 | NP ---

BSD,x measured (one per modulation cycle) for each
measurement point. In decihertz [dHz]. The values
are returned according to the Data Reading Mode.
(see section 7-5-1 above)
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.
There are 8 hexadecimal characters for each value
when in Hexadecimal Block Mode. BSD is not
available in Continuous measurement (CTN).

BNC Number of cycles giving NMR signals (not 0 | NP ---

BNC,x discarded) for each measurement point. The values
are returned according to the Data Reading Mode.
(see section 7-5-1 above)
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.
There are 4 hexadecimal characters for each value
when in Hexadecimal Block Mode. BNC is not
available in Continuous measurement (CTN).

BIN Individual NMR frequency values in decihertz [dHz] --- ---

for the selected measurement point (see
commands RUN or SRC). There are two values per
modulation cycle and the values are returned
according to the Data Reading Mode, the "up"
value before the "down" value. The Random
access mode is not available.
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.
There are 8 hexadecimal characters for each value
when in Hexadecimal Block Mode. BIN is not
available in Continuous measurement (CTN).

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 45

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

The following commands return only one value, therefore the Block modes are not applicable.

BFC Central NMR frequency value in decihertz [dHz]. --- ---

This is the median (not average) value of all
measurement points giving NMR signals.
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.

BFL Lowest NMR frequency value in decihertz [dHz]. --- ---

This is the lowest measured value over all
measurement points giving NMR values.
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.

BFH Highest NMR frequency value in decihertz [dHz]. --- ---

This is the highest measured value over all
measurement points giving NMR signals.
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.

BFD Difference highest-lowest NMR frequency values --- ---

expressed in ppm of the central NMR frequency
value.
If no value is available, <CR><LF> are returned.

NP : Number of NMR probes (measurement points)

46 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6 STATUS AND ERRORS

The MFC-3045 has 6 status registers to show event or error conditions or states of the instrument.

7-6-1 STATUS 1
Status register 1 shows event and error conditions. When a condition occurs, the corresponding bit is
set to 1. The bits are cleared to 0 after reading the status register (command ST1).

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

reset or No NMR Miscel. error Remote Com- Modulation Command Data ready
power on Sig. seen on button munication error error
probe(s) changed error
state

bit 7: reset or power on

This bit is set to 1 at power on or following a reset of the instrument.

bit 6: No NMR signal seen

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that one or more probes (measurement points) have not seen any NMR
signals.

bit 5: Miscellaneous error

This bit is set to 1 when at least one of the bits 2, 4 or 5 of the status 4 is set to 1.

bit 4: Remote button changed state

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the button of the Remote Box has changed state (button pressed or
released).

bit 3: Communication error

This bit is set to 1 when at least one of the bits 4 to 7 of the status 5 is set to 1

bit 2: Modulation error

This bit is set to 1 when at least one of the bits of the status 2 is set to 1

bit 1: command error

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that an error occurred with a command, meaning that the syntax is
wrong, that the parameter is outside the possible range, or that the command is not applicable. The
last command which gave an error is returned by the command ERR.

bit 0: data ready

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the data are now available for reading.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 47

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-2 STATUS 2 (Modulation parameters errors)

The Status register 2 shows modulation error conditions. When a condition occurs, the
corresponding bit is set to 1. The bits are cleared to 0 after reading the status register, except the
bit #7 (command ST2).
If one of the bits of Status 2 is set to 1, the bit #2 of Status 1 is set to 1.

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

P-A not Modul param Allowed lost Cycle lost Period not Max Period longer Period
connected exceed DDS cycle stable amplitude than setting shorter than
range reached reached setting

bit 7: P-A not connected

This bit is set to 1 if the Probe Array is not connected. The MFC-3045 must be switched OFF before
connecting a Probe Array.

bit 6: Modul param exceed DDS range

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that a modulation parameter exceeds the frequency range of the DDS
(frequency generator).

bit 5: Allowed lost cycles reached

This bit is set to 1 during a measurement to indicate that the allowed number of lost modulation
cycles has been reached (see below). The measurement will be aborted if one more modulation
cycle is lost.

bit 4: Cycle lost

This bit is set to 1 during a measurement to indicate that one or more modulation cycles have been
‘lost’ due to a data processing overload. It is of no consequence except that the measurement takes
longer. The measurement is aborted if the maximum allowed number of lost cycles is reached.

bit 3: Period not stable

This bit is set to 1 during a measurement to indicate that the period is not stable, meaning that one or
more modulation cycles have been delayed to allow enough time to process data during the plateau
high.

bit 2: Max amplitude reached

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the modulation amplitude is too high. The real value has been set
to the maximum possible.

bit 1: Period longer than setting

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the period has been set to a higher value to fit the other modulation
parameters. This typically happens with high modulation amplitude values.

bit 0: Period shorter than setting

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the period has been set to a lower value to fit the maximum length
of the plateau. This typically happens when the modulation period is high and the modulation
amplitude is small.

48 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-3 STATUS 3 (Measurement status)

The Status register 3 reflects the present state. Reading the status does not clear the bits.

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Remote LED RF Search Continuous Meas. data avail.

generator 0 active meas. (RUN)
ON active active

bit 7 and 6:
These 2 bits indicate the state of the LED on the Remote Box:
Bit 7 bit 6
0 0 LED is Off
0 1 LED is Lit
1 0 LED is blinking slowly
1 1 LED is blinking quickly

bit 5: RF Generator ON
This bit is set to 1 when the RF Generator is ON. It is set to 0 when the RF Generator is switched
OFF.

bit 4:
Always 0.

bit 3: Search active

This bit is set to 1 at the beginning of a ‘Search’ and it is cleared to 0 at the end of the Search
process.

bit 2: Continuous meas. active

This bit is set to 1 at the beginning of a Continuous measurement and it is cleared to 0 when the user
stops the Continuous measurement.

bit 1: Meas. (RUN) active

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that a measurement (RUN) is in progress and it is cleared to 0 at the
end of the measurement

bit 0: data available

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that data can now be read. This bit is cleared to 0 at the start of a
measurement.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 49

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-4 STATUS 4 (Miscellaneous status)

The Status register 4 reflects miscellaneous state and error conditions. The bits 0, 1 and 3 reflect
present condition while bits 2 and 4 to 7 are cleared when the status is read. When one of the bits
2, 6 or 7 is set to 1, the bit 5 of status 1 is set to 1.

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Error with Error with EEPROM Remote Remote Overflow in Data in Hardware
P-A Main Unit success. button button state creating RAM <> problem
EEPROM EEPROM wrote changed calib. table EEPROM
state

bit 7: Error with Probe Array EEPROM

This bit is set to 1 to indicate an error in reading the Probe Array EEPROM. Reading the status
clears this bit.

bit 6: Error with Main Unit EEPROM

This bit is set to 1 to indicate an error in reading the Main Unit EEPROM. Reading the status clears
this bit.

bit 5: EEPROM successfully wrote

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the EEPROM (either the Main Unit or Probe Array EEPROM has
been successfully written. Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 4: Remote button changed state

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the button of the Remote Box has changed state (button pressed or
released). Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 3: Remote button state

This bit indicates the state of the Remote Box button. It is set to 1 when the button is released and
cleared to 0 when the button is pressed.

bit 2: Overflow in creating calib. table

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that an overflow occurred when the MFC-3045 calculated the Probe
Array calibration table. That can happen if the reference value is far from the mean value (see Probe
Array Calibration chapter). Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 1: Data in RAM <> EEPROM

At power up, the content of the Main Unit and Probe Array EEPROMs (the configuration data) are
copied into the RAM system. This bit is set to 1 to indicate that one or more configuration data stored
in RAM has been changed (using the Advanced mode level 2) and therefore the configuration data in
RAM do not match the configuration data in EEPROM. This bit is cleared to 0 when the EEPROM is
successfully written with the new set of configuration data.

bit 0: Hardware problem

This bit indicates that a hardware problem in the MFC-3045 Main Unit has been detected during
startup. Together with this bit, the busy LED of the Remote Box is switched on permanently. The
instrument should be repaired.

50 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-5 STATUS 5 (Baud rate & Communication error)

The Status register 5 is used to indicate the RS-232 Baud rate (bit 0 to 2) and the communication
error conditions (bits 3 to 7). The bits 0, 1 and 2 reflect the present state, while bits 3 to 7 are
cleared when the status is read. When one of the bits 3 to 7 is set to 1, the bit 3 of status 1 is set to
1.

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

(Ghost int.) Framing Parity Overrun Check-Sum RS-232 Baud Rate

Reserved error error error error

bit 7: Reserved
This bit is reserved.

bit 6: Framing error

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the received character does not have a valid stop bit(s). Reading
the status clears this bit.

bit 5: Parity error

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the received character does not have correct parity information and
is suspect. Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 4: Overrun error

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that additional character have arrived when the RS-232 input buffer was
full. Therefore the previous character is lost. This will not happen if software or hardware handshake
is used. Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 3: Check-Sum error

This bit is set to 1 when the checksum of configuration data received in one hexadecimal block (see
Probe Array calibration chapter) does not match the checksum value sent with the data block.
Reading the status clears this bit.

bit 2 to 0: RS-232 Baud Rate

These bits indicate the selected RS-232 Baud Rate.
bit 2 bit 1 bit 0 Baud rate
0 0 0 2400
0 0 1 4800
0 1 0 9600Å Default value
0 1 1 19200
1 0 0 28800
1 0 1 38400
1 1 0 57600
1 1 1 115200

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 51

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-6 STATUS 6 (Communication settings)

The Status register 6 reflects the communication (RS-232) settings.

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0 0 Hardware Software Odd / Even Parity set 1 / 2 stop 7 / 8 bit(s)

handshake handshake parity bit(s) length
(RTS / CTS) (Xon/Xoff)

bit 7 and 6:
Always 0.

bit 5: Hardware handshake

This bit is set to 1 when the hardware handshake (RTS / CTS) is enabled.

bit 4: Software (Xon/Xoff) handshake

This bit is set to 1 when the software handshake (Xon / Xoff protocol) is enabled.

bit 3: Odd / Even parity

This bit is set to 1 when Even parity is selected, cleared to 0 for Odd parity. This bit has no meaning
if the parity is not enabled (bit #2 = 0).

bit 2: Parity set

This bit is set to 1 to indicate that the parity check is enabled.

bit 1: 1 / 2 stop bit(s)

This bit is set to 1 when 2 stop bits are selected, cleared to 0 for one stop bit.

bit 0: 7 / 8 bit(s) length

This bit is set to 1 when the RS-232 data is 8 bits long, cleared to 0 for 7 bits.

52 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-6-7 Send Messages Automatically

To avoid a continuous polling of the status register (to check if data is ready or if an error condition
has occurred), the MFC-3045 can automatically send a message of 2 ASCII characters to the
computer when certain conditions occur. The command SMA allows the user to select which one(s)
of the 8 conditions will generate a message.

Probe Array Remote Remote Misc. error Communi- Modulation Command Data
Conditions: not Box Box button (EEPROM) cation error error error Ready
connected button depressed
released

Message
PA UP DN EE RS ME CE DR
sent:

Correspond Bit #7 of --- --- Bit #4 of Bit #3 of Bit #2 of Bit #1 of Bit #0 of

to: status 2 status 1 status 1 status 1 status 1 status 1

SMA
parameter 128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
value:

The message of a given condition is sent each time that the condition occurs; provided it is enabled
by the command SMA, whether the corresponding bit in Status register is read or not. i.e. : the DR
message (Data Ready) will be sent each time a measurement is finished and Data are ready, even if
the Status 1 is not cleared.

The parameter ‘x’ of the command SMA acts as a mask. To enable an automatic message, the
corresponding bit of the mask must be set to 1.

Examples :
• SMA,0 masks all the conditions and no messages will be sent.
• SMA,255 (maximum value) allows any of the conditions to automatically generate its
message when it occurs.
• SMA,73 masks all the conditions except ‘Remote box button released’, ‘Communication
error’ and ‘Data Ready’ (64+8+1).

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 53

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min/Max Defaults

ST1 Status Register 1: Returns Status 1 in binary form (8 --- ---

ASCII characters "0" or "1"). Bits are cleared after
reading.

ST2 Status Register 2 (modulation parameter error): --- ---

Returns Status 2 in binary form (8 ASCII characters
"0" or "1"). Bits are cleared after reading, except bit
#7.
If one of the bits of Status 2 is set to 1, bit #2 of
Status 1 is set to 1.

ST3 Status Register 3 (Measurement status): Returns --- ---

Status 3 in binary form (8 ASCII characters "0" or
"1").

ST4 Status Register 4 (Miscellaneous status): Returns --- ---

Status 4 in binary form (8 ASCII characters "0" or
"1"). Bits #2, #4 to #7 are cleared after reading.
If bit #2, #6 or #7 is set, bit #5 of Status 1 is set to 1.

ST5 Status Register 5 (B-R & communication error): --- ---

Returns Status 5 in binary form (8 ASCII characters
"0" or "1"). Bits #3 to #7 are cleared after reading.
If one of bit #2 to #7 is set, bit #3 of Status 1 is set to
1.

ST6 Status Register 6 (Communication settings): Returns --- ---

Status 6 in binary form (8 ASCII characters "0" or
"1").

ERR Command Error: Returns the 3 first characters of the --- ---
command that gave the last command error.

SMA SMA,x Send message automatically: mask of the conditions 0 | 255 0

that can send a message to the computer
automatically. SMA,0 masks all conditions (no
message is sent), while SMA,255 allows all the
conditions to send a message to the computer
automatically.

54 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-7 PROBE ARRAY

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

NPR {NPR,x} Number of measurement points (NMR probes) of 1 | 32, 64 or 96 P-A#

the Probe Array.

PCF {PCF,x} Probe Array Central Frequency: This is the 2•106 | 308•107 P-A#
frequency in decihertz [dHz] for which the Probe
Array is designed. This value is used as reference
for most of the values expressed in ppm.

PLF {PLF,x} Probe Array Lowest Frequency in decihertz [dHz]. 2•106 | 308•107 P-A#
Below this frequency, detection of NMR signals is
not guaranteed.

PHF {PHF,x} Probe Array Highest Frequency in decihertz [dHz]. 2•106 | 308•107 P-A#
Above this frequency, detection of NMR signals is
not guaranteed.

RFH {RFH,x} RF harmonic: The RF generator is limited to 1,3,5 or 7 P-A#

44Mhz; for higher frequencies, the Probe Array
uses a odd harmonic of the fundamental RF (up to
harmonic 7)

NST {NST,x} NMR Signal Threshold: This gives a DC threshold 0 | 255 P-A#
level to detect NMR signals

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)

P-A : Depends of the Probe Array.
# : Value can be changed in the EEPROM (Advanced commands level 2)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 55

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-8 RS-232 SETTINGS AND MISCELLANEOUS COMMANDS

This section describes the RS-232 settings as well as miscellaneous commands.
The RS-232 settings (or parameters) can be changed with the command RSP,x (provided the
Advanced mode level 2 is enabled). When the MFC-3045 receives the command, the new settings
are applied. Therefore the RS-232 settings of the computer must be also changed accordingly.
Once the RS-232 parameters have been changed, the user can memorize them in the Main Unit
EEPROM, making the change permanent (see command SMU). It is always possible to retrieve the
default RS-232 settings (9600bd, Xon/Xoff disabled, no hardware handshake, 8bits, no parity, 1 stop
bit). Proceed as follows:
While keeping the Remote Box Button pressed, reset the MFC-3045 by pressing the reset button on
either the Remote Box or on the power-supply, or by switching the system Off and On. Keep the
Remote Box button down until the LED is blinking quickly. Then release the Button. The default
parameter are now stored in the Main Unit EEPROM.
The parameter ‘x’ of the command RSP is the decimal value of all the setting bits set to 1.

Bit: 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Hardware Software Odd / Parity 1 / <2> 7 / <8>

Å Baud Rate Æ N/A N/A handshake handshake <Even> <yes>/no stop bit(s) bit(s)
(RTS / CTS) (Xon/Xoff) parity length

1024 512 256 -- -- 32 16 8 4 2 1

Decimal values

• The values between < > represent the setting when the corresponding bit is set to 1.
• The Hardware or Software handshake is enabled when the corresponding bit is set to 1.
• Bits 6 and 7 are not applicable and have no meaning.
• Bits 8 to 10 are used for the Baud Rate as follow :
bit 10 bit 9 bit 8 Baud rate
0 0 0 2400
0 0 1 4800
0 1 0 9600Å Default value
0 1 1 19200
1 0 0 28800
1 0 1 38400
1 1 0 57600
1 1 1 115200

Examples :
RSP,1828 will set the RS-232 parameters to 115200bd, Hardware Handshake, Odd parity, 1 stop
bit and 7bits (1024+512+256+32+4 = 1828).
RSP,513 will set the RS-232 parameters to 9600bd, No Handshake, No parity, 1 stop bit and 8
bits
(512+1 = 513). This is the default value.

56 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

RSP {RSP,x} RS-232 parameters: This command is used to 0 | 1855 529#

change the RS-232 settings (see above).

Advanced commands.
ADV ADV,x 0|2 0
0 = not allowed,
1 = level 1 Æ advanced commands allowed,
2 = level 2 Æ like level 1, plus enable the
modification of settings in nonvolatile memory
(EEPROM)

RST Reset the system. (Equivalent to switching On) --- ---

Version:
VER 0|2 ---
VER,x 0 or no parameter = returns the MFC-3045
firmware version (43 characters).
1 = returns the Main Unit EEPROM version (5
char.)
2 = returns the Probe Array EEPROM version (5
char.)

Serial Number:
S/N 0|2 ---
S/N,x 0, 1 or no parameter = returns the Main Unit serial
number (17 characters).
2 = returns the Probe Array serial number (17
char.)

Remote Box (busy) LED: This command controls

LED LED,x 0|5 0
the busy LED on the Remote Box.
0 = LED is OFF
1 = LED is switched ON and OFF automatically
with the RF.
2 = LED is switched ON immediately and
switched OFF at end of the measurement
3 = LED is ON
4 = LED is blinking slowly
5 = LED is blinking quickly

DDS fixed frequency: an un-modulated RF signal is

[DFF] [DFF,x]
output by the frequency generator at the frequency 0 | 44•107 ---
given by the parameter ‘x’ in decihertz [dHz], until
DFF,0 or BRK is received by the MFC-3045.

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)
# : Value can be changed in the EEPROM (Advanced commands level 2)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 57

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

[FSW,x] Frequency Sweep: This is a special command 0 | 44•107 ---

used to tune the Probe Array. It allows the user to
shift MCF by the value of ‘x’ given in [dHz] during a
continuous measurement (CTN). MCF is shifted up
or down each time the PC sends the ASCII
character ‘8’ or ‘2’ respectively. (No need of
<CR><LF>).
If ‘x’ = 1, the Probe Array range is automatically
divided into 20 steps.
If ‘x’ = -1, the shift of MCF is limited to the Probe
Array range. (A new FSW,x will disable the
limitation.)
If ‘x’ = 0, the Frequency sweep mode is disabled.
(ADV,0 will also disable the Frequency sweep
mode)
Important: to enable the shift by characters ‘8’ or
‘2’, the user must send any command or even only
CR-LF after FSW,x

[UPD,x] Update FirmWare: This command allows entering --- ---

into the Update FirmWare mode. ‘x’ must be
777067 (This is the decimal ASCII code of
‘M’ ‘F’ ‘C’). Any other value will generate a syntax
error.
Once in the update mode, the MFC-3045 works
with a mini firmware stored in a special ‘boot’ sector
and therefore will accept only a few set of
commands:
VER : returns the firmware version.
VERx : where x is any character, returns the boot
sector version.
ERA : erase the firmware memory, the MFC-3045
returns ‘RR’ when it is erased.
Any string in the MOTOROLA S0-S9 format :
These strings contain the FirmWare data. The
checksum is verified and the data programmed. If
the data programmed match the string and there is
no checksum error, the MFC-3045 returns ‘RR’. If
there is an error, the MFC-3045 returns ‘XX’. The
string must be sent again.
The MFC-3045 will return ‘ZZ’ in case of a fatal
error. In that case the MFC-3045 will stay in Update
mode (even after being switched off) until the
FirmWare is correctly programmed.
Only a correct ‘end of file’ in the MOTOROLA
format will terminate the Update mode.
Note: This command is valid only for FirmWare
version 2.00 or higher.

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)
# : Value can be changed in the EEPROM (Advanced commands level 2)

58 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

7-9 PROBE ARRAY NORMALISATION & EEPROM

Some settings, specific to the Probe Array, or the Main Unit, are stored in a non-volatile memory
(EEPROM). At the time the MFC-3045 is switched on or reset, the contents of the EEPROMs are
stored in the RAM of the MFC-3045, to be used by the system. Some of these settings can be
changed when the MFC-3045 is in advanced mode level 2. However the change affects only the
RAM memory and will be lost if the MFC-3045 is switched off or reset. The settings in RAM can be
copied into the EEPROM using the command SMU (for the Main Unit) or SPA (for the Probe Array).
All the changes will be then permanent and restored the next time the MFC-3045 is switched on.
As explained in section 2-4 page 8 and section 6-4 page 33, the Probe Array has to be normalised
by measuring every probe in the same magnetic field. The discrepancies between probes are stored
in a calibration table in the Probe Array’s EEPROM.
A set of commands is available to facilitate the normalisation process.
Remember: after any change of the EEPROM, as well as after a normalisation process, the change
must be written permanently in the EEPROM using the command SPA (Probe Array EEPROM) or
SMU (Main Unit EEPROM) otherwise modification will be lost if the MFC-3045 is reset or switched
OFF.

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

[SMU] [SMU,>EEP] Settings of Main Unit: Without parameters, this --- ---
command sends back to the PC the contents of the
Main Unit EEPROM in one block of ASCII
characters coded in hexadecimal with a checksum
at the end. It is always in one hexadecimal block,
whatever the setting of the command BLK.

If the parameter after the comma is the ASCII string

“>EEP”, the settings temporarily stored in RAM is
written to the Main Unit EEPROM, making any
changes permanent.

[SPA] [SPA,>EEP] Settings of Probe Array: Without parameters, this --- ---
command sends back to the PC the contents of the
Probe Array EEPROM in one block of ASCII
characters coded in hexadecimal with a checksum
at the end. It is always in one hexadecimal block,
whatever the setting of the command BLK.

If the parameter after the comma is the ASCII string

“>EEP”, the settings temporarily stored in RAM are
written to the Probe Array EEPROM, making any
changes permanent.

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 59

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

Calibration, Probe Selection: After a measurement, this

[CPS] [CPS,x] 1 | NP ---
command takes the value of the magnetic field,
or
without correction, measured by the probe #’x’ and
0
puts this value in a table in the RAM of the MFC-3045.
or
After measurement of all probes of the Probe Array at
any value > NP
the same magnetic field, the table is full, and the next
step of the Probe Array normalisation can be done.
‘x’ = 1 : to NP selects the value measured by the probe
‘x’ and puts it in a table.
‘x’ = 0 : clear the table.
‘x’ = any value > NP : calculates and sends back to the
PC the average in decihertz [dHz] of all values in
the table. This can be used as target value for the
calibration table (see command CBT).
No parameters: The table is read by the PC,
sequentially or in a block, depending on the BLK
command.

Calibration, Build Table: When all the probes have

[CBT] {CBT,x} ‘r’ = 1 | NP ---
been measured and selected using the command CPS,
[CBT,r] ‘x’ = -1,0
this command creates the calibration table. It does so
or
by calculating the difference between the target value
>NP
given by the parameter ‘x’ in decihertz [dHz] (‘x’ must
be bigger than NP, which is always the case in
practice) and each value of the table created with the
command CPS. The new calibration table will become
permanent only after the command SPA,>EEP has
been executed.
‘x’ = -1 : Copy the contents of the calibration table
stored in EEPROM into the RAM of the
MFC-3045.
‘x’ = 0 : Clear the calibration table in RAM
‘x’ > NP : Use ‘x’ in [dHz] as the target value to create
the calibration table
No parameters: The table is read by the PC,
sequentially or in a block, depending on the BLK
command.
‘r’ = 1 to NP : send the value of the correction for the
probe #’r’ back to the PC. Also, set a pointer for the
command CET (see below) to that probe.

Calibration, Edit Table: This command allows editing

[CET] {CET,x} -37768 | +37767 ---
the correction table by writing the value ‘x’ in the entry
of the correction table corresponding to the probe
pointed to by the last CBT,r command (see above).
Without parameter, CET returns the correction value
for the probe selected by the last command CBT,r (see
above)
Note: The edited calibration table will become
permanent only after the command SPA,>EEP has
been executed.

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)
NP : Number of NMR probes (measurement points)

60 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

READ WRITE Description Min | Max Defaults

Calibration Date of Probe Array : This command

[CDP] {CDP,d} --- ---
allows setting the calibration date of the Probe
Array. ‘d’ must be a decimal number in the form
“jjmmyy”. Example: if the calibration date is June,
9th, 1998, the command will be:
CDP,090698
Note: The calibration date will become permanent
only after the command SPA,>EEP has been
executed.

Calibration Date of Main Unit : This command

[CDU] {CDU,d} --- ---
allows setting the calibration date of the MFC-3045
Main Unit.
‘d’ must be a decimal number in the form “jjmmyy”.
Example: if the calibration date is June, 30th, 1998,
the command will be:
CDU,300698
Note: The calibration date will become permanent
only after the command SMU,>EEP has been
executed.

[] : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 1 or more)

{} : Commands only available as Advanced commands (level 2)

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 61

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Intentionally left blank

62 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

8- SPECIFICATIONS

8-1 MAIN UNIT MFC-3045

Measurement principle: NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance of protons)
Magnetic field range: 0.08 to 7 Tesla
Absolute accuracy: better than ± 5 ppm
Resolution: 10-8 (RF > 10MHz) or 0.1 Hz (RF ≤ 10MHz)
Frequency stability: 3045 M version: ± 0.5 ppm over 5 to 50°C
3045 D version: ± 0.1 ppm over -25 to 70°C
Down to 0.03 to 0.05 ppm over a period of 3 days
3045 D version is appropriate for decay measurement.
The reference clock is an Oven Controlled Xtal Oscillator (OCXO)
Aging: 3045 D version: ± 1• 10-9/day
Readings: all probes simultaneously
Mapping time: 5 seconds (typical)
Interface: RS-232C
Operating temperature: 10°C to 40°C
Storage temperature: -20°C to +70°C
Humidity: Non-condensing is stated
Magnetic environment: 0.2 Tesla
Dimensions: 270 x 210 x 75 mm
Weight: 3 kg

8-2 POWER SUPPLY UNIT MFC-3046

Power requirement: 40VA: Universal from 85 to 240 AC Volts, 50/60Hz
Dimensions: 210 x 120 x 50 mm
Weight: 1.5 kg
Magnetic environment: 0.01 Tesla
Cable length: From power supply to Main Unit: 10 meters

8-3 PROBE ARRAY MFC-3048

Probes are tuned to one dedicated frequency.
Frequency range: typically ± 2%
Possible tuning frequencies: 3.4 to 300 MHz
Probe position accuracy: better than ± 0.3 mm
Discrepancy between probes put
in the very same magnetic field: max ± 0.2 ppm
Cable attached to the Probe Array: 3 meters
The number of probes, as well as the array diameter, are customer defined. Upon request by the
user, any geometry can be considered and implemented. The total number of NMR probes is limited
to 32 in the standard version of the Main Unit. A custom-built version can support a maximum of 96
channels.

8-4 ROTATING PROBE ARRAY HOLDERS MFC-3039, -3040, -3049

Mechanical devices designed to hold the half-moon Probe Array and to rotate it inside the magnetic
field, with a selection of 12, 24, 36, 16 or 32 increments per turn.
Built in aluminum or in “resocel”, can be adapted to most cryostat magnets.

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 63

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

8-5 DEEE CONFORMITY

This product conforms to the WEEE Directive of the European Union

(2002/96/EC) and belongs to Category 9 (Monitoring and Control Instruments).
For proper environment friendly disposal, you can return the instrument free of
charge to us or our local distributor.

64 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

9- APPENDIX : FIELD MAPPING

FIELD MAPPING AND SHIMMING MRI MAGNETS

WITH THE METROLAB FIELD-ALIGNER

Prof. Guy AUBERT

Grenoble High Magnetic Field Laboratory

One of the major requirements for efficient Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a high
enough quality of the magnetic field generated by the main magnet system. The goals for
the quality of the field of a whole-body MRI magnet are typically:

1) Time stability in the .1 ppm range at least.

2) Space homogeneity or uniformity within a few ppm in a roughly spherical volume, 50

cm in diameter.

Achieving time stability could be difficult for resistive magnets but is usually not a problem
for permanent magnets or superconducting ones operated in the persistent mode,
provided that no ferromagnetic pieces are moving in the vicinity of the magnet. On the
contrary, due to imperfections of the magnet itself and to environment effects, the required
homogeneity is never obtained without using sophisticated correction systems often
referred to as "shims". This recalls the small pieces of iron which were stuck by the
pioneers of the NMR on the pole pieces of their iron-core magnets in order to improve the
homogeneity of the field.

Even if the magnet system is provided with a convenient shimming set, the field correction
cannot proceed by trial and error. In most cases, such a procedure would not converge to
the best possible solution and, in any case, would be highly time consuming. The method
described hereafter does allow to find this best possible solution based on a rigorous
mathematical analysis, and to do it in a minimum of time since the proposed system does
not use any moving part. It proceeds in four steps:

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 65

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

1) Field plotting at the vertices of a three dimensional mesh in the region of interest by
means of a NMR teslameter multiplexing a set of probes.

2) Field decomposition or 3D-transform, i.e. data fitting with a general rigorous expression
for the spatial variation of the magnetic field which leads to a unique set of coefficients
describing the field in the region under consideration within a known accuracy.

3) Calculation of the correction parameters which will give the best possible homogeneity
with the considered shimming set and prediction of this homogeneity.

4) Check of the result after activation or installation of the calculated shimming.

In some cases, the effect of any of the various correction devices is not a priori known or
is not given with a sufficient accuracy by the manufacturer. By repeated application of
steps 1 and 2, it is possible to collect the necessary information for entering step 3. Of
course, this requires some time but must be done only once, since this information can be
stored for further use.

Steps 1 and 2 can also be used to control the static characteristics of the field generated
by the pulsed gradient coils set.

The whole process is monitored by a small computer (portable-PC size) and the software
has been given a high degree of adaptability to various situations.

- Ι - BASIC PRINCIPLES

It is known from Maxwell's equations that, in a magnetically empty region of space, that is
a region without any electric current or any piece of magnetic material, a stationary
magnetic field obeys the two equations:

r r
div B = 0, curl B = 0.

r
In order terms, this means that B is the gradient of a pseudo-scalar potential V* which is
solution of Laplace's equation:

r
B = -grad V*, ΔV* = 0.

It is thus possible to make a decomposition of V* on the basis of a complete orthogonal

set of functions which are solutions of Laplace's equation. The choice of this particular set

66 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

of functions is restricted by the fact that a magnetic potential like V* cannot be uniquely
r
defined in the whole space since the equation curl B = 0 is only valid in the magnetically
empty regions of space. In the actual situation, it appears that the best choice is to use
the spherical harmonics as the basis for an expansion of the spatial dependence of V* and
consequently of the field. This expansion will be valid at any point inside a magnetically
empty sphere. In such a spherical region of center O, we take a cartesian coordinate
r
system Oxyz with the z-axis along the magnetic field vector B 0 at this point O. Then, the z
component of the magnetic field has the unique form:

n
⎛ ⎞ ⎡ ⎤
∞
B z (r, θ, ϕ ) n
= 1 + ∑ ⎜ r ⎟ ⎢Hn Pn (cosθ) + ∑ (Ιnm cosmϕ + Jm
n sinmϕ ) Wn Pn (cosθ)⎥ (1)
m m
B0 ⎝r ⎠ ⎣
n=1 0 m =1 ⎦

5) The factors in bold characters, B 0 , the intensity of the field at the chosen origin O, H n

, Ιm m
n and J n , make up the unique set of coefficients of this particular type of B z

expansion. The coefficients, H n , Ι m m

n and J n which characterize the inhomogeneity of

the field are dimensionless and can be given, for instance, in ppm. The coefficients H n
will be referred to as "axial" since they are the only possible non-zero coefficients in a

situation of axial symmetry. The coefficients Ι m m

n and J n , on the contrary, will be called
"non-axial" or "off-axis".

6) The B x and B y components are given by other expressions which will not be written

here. They are governed by the same set of coefficients H n Ι m m

n and J n only, which

means in particular that ⏐ B x ⏐ and ⏐ B y ⏐ are of the same order of magnitude as

⏐B z − B 0 ⏐.

7) r, θ, ϕ, are the usual spherical coordinates of a general point M in space:

r = OM, θ = ( Oz, OM ), 0≤θ≤π and ϕ = (Ox, OH) modulo 2π, where H is the projection
of M onto the xOy plane perpendicular to Oz.

8) r 0 is a reference radius which makes it possible to scale the coefficients H n , Ι m

n and

Jm
n of the expansion. For evaluating quickly the quality of the magnet, it is convenient,

but not compulsory, to take the radius of the sphere of interest as r 0 .

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 67

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

9) P n (cosθ) and P m
n (cosθ) are the Legendre and associated Legendre polynomials in

n (cosθ) that we use do not include the ( −1) Hobson's factor.

m
cosθ. NB : The P m

10) W m m m
n is a numerical weight factor which forces the product W n P n (cosθ) to oscillate
in the range [-1,1] in order to give a straightforward physical meaning to the

corresponding coefficients Ι m m
n and J n .

As an illustration of the interest of this weight factor, let us consider, for instance, the

signification of the coefficient Ι 44 . P 44 (cosθ) is maximum for θ = π/2 and the

corresponding value is 105. Suppose that, for some magnet, Ι 44 is found to be .2 ppm for

r 0 = 25 cm in an expansion which does not include any weight factor, that is W 44 = 1. This

magnet could appear at first sight better than it actually is. Indeed, the meaning of Ι 44 =

.2 ppm is that the B z difference between the point at 25 cm from the origin along Ox for

instance and B z at the origin is 105 x .2 = 21 ppm of B 0 . If a weight factor W 44 = 1/105 is

included in the expansion, the corresponding Ι 44 is no longer .2 ppm but 21 ppm, which
gives immediately an indication of the influence of this term.

There are several possible choices for the weight factors W m

n . In principle, one should

choose W m
n = 1/Max { P (cosθ) } , but this would give rational numbers only for m = n
m
n

and would add a useless complexity to the expression. In order to satisfy this latter
condition, one can take:

68 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Wm
n = (n-m-1) !! / (n+m-1) !!,

where the double factorial notation has the following meaning:

(2p) !! = 2.4.6. . .(2p) = 2 p p ! with 0!! = 1,

(2p-1) !! = 1.3. . . (2p-1) with (-1) !! = 1.

Then, all the W m m

n P n (cosθ) which we shall use have their maximum absolute value in

the range [.5,1]. Table Ι gives for these terms the angle in degrees at which they are
maximum and the corresponding value of this maximum. Table ΙΙ gives explicitly the
expression of the first term of the expansion in cartesian coordinates, in order to recall the

ancient labels of the "shims", z, x, y, z 2 , xz, x 2 -y 2 , . . . coined by the pioneers of NMR

spectroscopy. NB: Another possible choice for the weight factor is:

Wm
n = (n − m) ! / (n + m)! ,

which is part of the rationalization factor of the spherical harmonics. This can be
introduced on demand as an option.

Now, the problem is to find a unique set of coefficients which is fully equivalent, within the
experimental accuracy, to a three dimensional array of measured magnetic field values.
r
The NMR teslameter measures the field intensity, that is, B = B 2x + B 2y + B2z , but, in
r
the case of MRI magnets, the uniformity of the field is always good enough to make B

equal a single component, B z as we called it, within much less than 1 ppm of B 0 since

the component of the field perpendicular to B z , that is B2x + B2y , has the same order of

magnitude as the inhomogeneity in B z . As an example, let us consider an enormous

r
inhomogeneity in the 1000 ppm range, say B2x + B2y = 10−3 B0 , the field intensity B

measured by the NMR probe will differ from B z by less than 1 ppm since:

r B2x +B2y ⎡ B2 +B2 ⎤

B = Bz 1+ = B z ⎢1 + x 2 y +...⎥ ≈ B z (1 − 5.10−7 ) .
B2z ⎢⎣ 2B z ⎥⎦

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 69

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

- ΙΙ - TRUNCATION OF THE EXPANSION

An important question to answer concerns the actual upper limitations of the values of n
and m in the expansion of B z in the form (1). Indeed, the actual summation on n cannot
go to infinity but must be stopped at some maximum value N. In the same way, the actual
summations on m have to be stopped at M(n)≤n. Clearly these limitations N, M(n) depend
on the quality of the magnet since a sufficient number of coefficients must enter the
expansion (1) in order to describe correctly the field within the experimental accuracy. The
number of measured values, which must be at least equal to the number of unknown
coefficients, is closely related to the cost of the apparatus (number of probes) and to the
time needed for the data acquisition process. As a consequence, the truncation of the
expansion (1) must be carefully optimized.

Let us first discuss the choice of M(n). If one makes M(n) =n, which seems to be self-

evident from a mathematical point of view, the total number of coefficients is (N+1) 2 . For
N=7, the probable lower value for N, this gives 64, quite a big number, and for N=13, a
desirable choice, this gives 196 which exceeds certainly the economical possibility of
using such a number of probes, if one wants to avoid any moving part in the plotting
device. However, it appears that the actual MRI magnets do not exhibit imperfections
which need high order off-axis terms to be described and this is fortunate enough, since
they would greatly complicate the shimming (conventional shim coils do not allow
corrections above m=3 and the passive shimming complexity grows very fast with the
order). Thus a much better choice is M(n) = Min {n, N-n}, which leads to a total number of

coefficients equal to 2 [ ] (N − [ ] ) + N + 1, where [ ] means the integer part of N/2. This

N
2
N
2
N
2

gives only 32 and 98 coefficients for N=7 and 13 respectively. Table ΙΙΙ shows these
examples of truncation and the corresponding numbering of the coefficients that we use.

We have now to choose N. For "good" magnets, N=7 should be sufficient and this value is
consistent with the capabilities of the usual active shimming systems. A more
comprehensive choice is N=13, which should allow to meet most of the situations. These
two cases correspond to the prototypes MAP32 and MAP98 named by reference to the
number of coefficients involved, N c = 32 and 98 respectively.

In both cases, the number N p of measured points is equal to this number and the

decomposition software allows to fit the data with any number of coefficients lower or

70 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

equal to it. This possibility is very important as a self-test of the validity of the
decomposition.

- ΙΙΙ - FIELD PLOTTING AND DECOMPOSITION

One of the key points of the problem is the positioning of the N p measured points. These

positions must lead to the best conditioning of the matrix of the linear system to be solved
together with the least sensitivity of the result to possible imperfections in the positions or
in the measurements themselves. This is not a trivial mathematical question but we have
solved it and the N p NMR probes of our systems are placed according to this optimal

solution.

The device carrying the NMR probes is fitted into the magnet bore by means of adjustable
"legs". The minimum diameter of the bore is about 50 cm and the maximum one can be
far more than 100 cm if necessary. The bore does not need to be cylindrical, which allows
the system to be installed, for instance, in a magnet already equipped with its plastic cover
and the patient bed. Reference marks can be taken for further installation in the same
position.

The origin (or center) and the z-axis of the device must coincide at best with the
corresponding elements of the principal magnet and of the shimming system as given by
the manufacturer or guessed by the user. The accuracy of this adjustment is not critical
and even a few degrees of misalignment will not significantly spoil the shimming process.
The choice of the x and y directions is a pure question of convention but, of course, it
must be consistent with that of the designer of the shimming system. This question is
discussed with more details in the documentation of the shimming packages.

Concerning the field measurement itself, the teslameter multiplexes the probes and the
measure is repeated at every position a sufficient number of times under the control of a
simple statistical analysis in order to achieve the require accuracy (~ .1 ppm).

These data are immediately fed to the computer which calculates the set of the N c first

coefficients of the decomposition (according to table ΙΙΙ) with a chosen Nc ≤ Np . Nc

can be changed and the decomposition restarted to analyze the stability of the process
since, for each decomposition, the computer gives the mean square deviation between

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 71

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

the Np measured values and the calculated ones on the basis of the Nc coefficients

together with the maximum local deviation and the particular point where it occurs.

The total time necessary to complete a whole field plotting and decomposition after having
installed the system is only a few seconds.

NB: This decomposition is unique and does not depend on the size of the device carrying
the probes which has been chosen to fit in most of the magnets. It is mathematically valid
for any point inside the biggest magnetically empty sphere that can be found with the
chosen center O. The value of the scaling radius r 0 is only a question of convenience, it
can be changed by the operator and the corresponding results redisplayed. For an easier
interpretation, it should be set as the radius of the user 's sphere of interest. However, the
accuracy of the mapping of the field by the calculated expansion will be lower at a
distance from the center O significantly bigger than the average radius of the probes
holder.

- ΙV - SHIMMING

After having qualified the field plotting and the decomposition process, the set of
coefficients thus obtained can be used to determine an appropriate shimming. Different
situations have to be considered:

11) Active shimming with a set of correcting coils, the characteristics of which are (or are
not) well known by the user.

12) Passive shimming with a possibly great variety of elements.

In any of these cases or sub-cases, an additional package can be proposed with its
specific documentation.

**********

72 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

TABLE Ι
n\m 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
0 ********
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1 0.000 90.000
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 1.000000 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
2 0.000 45.000 90.000
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .750000 1.000000 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
3 0.000 31.091 54.736 90.000
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .688530 .721688 1.000000 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐
4 0.000 23.878 40.893 60.000 90.000
⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .660016 .642857 .710411 1.000000 ⏐ ⏐
⏐
5 0.000 19.416 32.866 46.911 63.435 90.000
⏐
1.000000 .643525 .604144 .623187 .704361 1.000000 ⏐

6 0.000 16.371 27.542 38.826 51.123 65.905 90.000

1.000000 .632774 .580952 .578970 612182 .700591 1.000000

7 0.000 14.157 23.730 33.222 43.202 54.292 67.792

1.000000 .625212 .565456 .551899 .564500 .605143 .698017
⏐
8 0.000 12.474 20.858 29.076 37.542 46.603
⏐
1.000000 .619603 .554355 .533519 .534874 .555073 ⏐
⏐ ⏐
9 0.000 11.149 18.613 25.872 33.253
⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .615278 .546004 .520184 .514526 ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
10 0.000 10.080 16.808 23.316
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .611841 .539491 .510050 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
11 0.000 9.198 15.324
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .609045 .534267 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
12 0.000 8.459
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 .606725 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
13 0.000
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1.000000 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
n/m 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 73

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

TABLE ΙΙ

(B0 ) 1

(H1 )
z
r0
(I )
1
1
x
r0

(J )
1
1
y
r0

z2 − (
1 2
x + y2 ) 3
xz ( )
I 22
x2 − y 2
(H2 ) 2
r02
(I )
1
2
2
r02
r02

3
( )
J 12 2
yz
(J ) 2
2
2 xy
r02
r02

( ) ( ) ( ) (I ) ( )
3 ⎡ 1 ⎤ 15 2 x x2 − 3 y 2
z3 − z x2 + y2 2x ⎢ z2 − x2 + y2 ⎥ x − y2 z 3
(H3 ) 2
r03 (I )
1
3
⎣ 4
r03
⎦ I 23 8
r02
3
r03

15
⎡ 1 ⎤
2 y ⎢ z2 − x2 + y 2 ⎥ ( ) xyz
(J ) ( ) ( )
⎣ ⎦ J 23 4
1 4 y 3 x2 − y 2
3 3 r03 J 33
r0
r03

( ) (
3 2
)
2
z4 − 3 z2 x2 + y 2 + x + y2
(H4 ) 8 ...
r04

74 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

TABLE ΙΙΙ

n/m 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1 (B 0 ) ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
0 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
( I 11 ) ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
1 2 ( H 1) 3
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
4 (J )1
1
⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
2 5 6 9 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
7 10 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
3 8 11 14 19 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
12 15 20 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐
4 13 16 21 26 33 ⏐ ⏐
17 22 27 34 ⏐ ⏐
⏐
5 18 23 28 35 42 51 ⏐
24 29 36 43 52 ⏐

6 25 30 37 44 53 62 73
31 38 45 54 63 74

7 32 39 46 55 64 75 86
MAP32 40 47 56 65 76 87

8 41 48 57 66 77 88 ⏐
49 58 67 78 89 ⏐
⏐
9 50 59 68 79 90 ⏐ ⏐
60 69 80 91 ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐
10 61 70 81 92 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
71 82 93 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐
11 72 83 94 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
84 95 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
12 85 96 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
97 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
13 98 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
MAP98 ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐ ⏐
n/m 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 75

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Personal notes:

76 Geneva - Switzerland METROLAB Instruments SA

MFC-3045 User’s Manual

Personal notes:

METROLAB Instruments SA Geneva - Switzerland 77

 Low Level Commands and Status Summary

Modulation parameters Pages Status and Errors Pages

yMDAy Modulation Amplitude 3, 41 yST1 Status Register 1 47
yMCFy Modulation Central Frequency 3, 41 yST2 Status Register 2 (modulation parameter error) 48
yMLFy Modulation Lowest Frequency 3, 41 yST3 Status Register 3 (Measurement status) 49
yMHFy Modulation Highest Frequency 3, 41 yST4 Status Register 4 (Miscellaneous status) 50
yMREy Modulation Reference parameter 41 yST5 Status Register 5 (B-R & communication error) 51
yMDP] Modulation period 41 yST6 Status Register 6 (Communication settings) 52
[NSR] Number of steps for ramp modulation 41 yERR Return last Command Error 54
[NSP] Number of steps for plateau modulation 41 ySMAy Send message automatically 53, 54
[DBR] DDS Bit resolution 41
Probe Array Pages
Measurement parameters Pages yNPR} Number of measurement points (NMR probes) 55
yNCYy Number of measurement (or modulation) cyclesy 42 yPCF} Probe Array Central Frequency 55
yNPC} Number of preliminary cycles 42 yPLF} Probe Array Lowest Frequency 55
yNPT} Time duration of preliminary cycles 42 yPHF} Probe Array Highest Frequency 55
yRSO] Rejection Signal Offset 42 yRFH} RF harmonic 55
yRSG] Rejection Signal Gap 42 yNST} NMR Signal Threshold 55
yTVPy Time versus Precision 42
Miscellaneous commands Pages
Data Acquisition Pages yRSP RS-232 parameters 56, 57
RUNy Starts a measurement 43 yADV Advanced commands 57
SRCy Search over full range of Probe Array 43 RSTy Reset the system 57
CTNy Continuous measurement 43 yVER Version 57
BRKy Breaks 43 yS/N Serial Numbers 57
yLEDy Remote Box (busy) LED control 57
Data Reading Pages
[DFF] DDS fixed frequency 57
yBLKy Data transfer Block Mode 45 [FSW] Frequency Sweep 58
yBFV Read Magnetic (B) field value 45
yBSD Read Standard deviation 45 Calibration and EEPROM Pages
yBNC Read Number of valid cycles 45 [SMU] Settings of Main Unit 59
yBIN Individual probe NMR frequency values 45 [SPA] Settings of Probe Array 59
yBFC Central NMR frequency value 45 [CPS] Correction table: Probe Selection 60
yBFL Lowest NMR frequency value 45 [CBT] Correction table: Build Table 60
yBFH Highest NMR frequency value 45 [CET] Correction table: Edit Table 60
yBFD Difference highest-lowest NMR frequency values 45 [CDP] Calibration Date of Probe Array 61
[CDU] Calibration Date of Main Unit 61
Read command → yXYZ Write command → XYZy ([ or ] for ADVanced level 1; { or } for ADVanced level 2)

bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Hexa 80 40 20 10 8 4 2 1
No NMR Sig. Remote Com-
reset or power Modulation Command
Status 1 On
seen on Miscel. error button munication
error error
Data ready
probe(s) changed state error
Modul param Max
P-A not Allowed lost Period not Period longer Period shorter
Status Registers

Status 2 connected
exceed DDS
cycle reached
Cycle lost
stable
amplitude
than setting than setting
range reached
RF generator Hunt mode Continuous Meas. (RUN)
Status 3 Remote LED
ON active
Search active
meas. active active
data avail.

Error with EEPROM Remote Overflow in Data in RAM

Error with P-A Remote Hardware
Status 4 EEPROM
Main Unit success. button
button state
creating calib. <>
problem
EEPROM wrote changed state table EEPROM
(Ghost int.) Parity Check-Sum
Status 5 Reserved
Framing error
error
Overrun error
error
RS-232 Baud Rate

Hardware Software
Odd / Even 1 / 2 stop 7 / 8 bit(s)
Status 7 0 0 handshake handshake
parity
Parity set
bit(s) length
(RTS / CTS) (Xon/Xoff)

Probe Array Remote Box Remote Box Misc. error Communi- Modulation Command Data Ready
messages

Conditions: not button button (EEPROM) cation error error error

connected released depressed
SMA

Message sent: PA UP DN EE RS ME CE DR
SMA param.
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
value:

Bit → 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
2400 0 0 0
4800 0 0 1
RS-232C
settings
Baud Rate

9600 0 1 0
Hardware Software Odd /
19200 0 1 1 Parity 1 / <2> stop 7 / <8> bit(s)
N/A N/A handshake handshake <Even>
28800 1 0 0 <yes>/no bit(s) length
(RTS / CTS) (Xon/Xoff) parity
38400 1 0 1
57600 1 1 0
115200 1 1 1
Déc. Val. → 1024 512 256 -- -- 32 16 8 4 2 1