Agilent E3632A DC Power Supply: User's Guide
Agilent E3632A DC Power Supply: User's Guide
DC Power Supply
User’s Guide
Agilent Technologies
Notices
© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 1997–2013 Warranty Safety Notices
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• Use the device with the cables provided with the shipment.
CAUTION
• If the device is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the device protection may be impaired.
• Always use a dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use ethyl alcohol
or any other volatile liquid to clean the device.
• Do not permit any blockage of the ventilation holes of the device.
This power supply is a Safety Class I instrument, which means that it has a
protective earth terminal. This terminal must be connected to earth ground
through a power source with a 3-wire ground receptacle.
Before installation or operation, check the power supply and review this
manual for safety markings and instructions. Safety information for
specific procedures is located at the appropriate places in this manual.
Environmental Conditions
This instrument is designed for indoor use and in an area with low
condensation. The table below shows the general environmental
requirements for this instrument.
Operating condition
• 0 °C to 40 °C (full rated output)
Temperature
Storage condition
• –20 °C to 70 °C
Humidity Up to 80% RH
Altitude Up to 2000 m
Pollution degree 2
If you are unable to search for the respective DoC, contact your local
NOTE Agilent representative.
4 Error Messages
Overview 128
Front panel operation 128
Remote interface operation 129
Execution Error Messages 130
Self-Test Error Messages 135
Calibration Error Messages 137
5 Application Programs
Overview 140
Example Program for C++ (GPIB IEEE 488) 141
Example Program for Excel 5.0 (Windows 3.1 and GPIB) 144
6 Tutorial
Overview of the Power Supply Operation 150
Output Characteristics 152
Unregulated state 154
Unwanted signals 154
Connecting the Load 157
Output isolation 157
Multiple loads 157
1
Getting Started
Introduction 2
Standard Shipped Items 7
Preparing the Power Supply 9
Product at a Glance 18
Operating the Power Supply 24
This chapter guides you to set up your power supply for the
first time. An introduction to all the features of the power
supply is also given.
Agilent Technologies 1
1 Getting Started
Introduction
Introduction
The Agilent E3632A is a high performance 120 W dual range
DC power supply with GPIB and RS- 232 interfaces. The
combination of bench- top and system features in this power
supply provides versatile solutions for your design and test
requirements.
Operational features
• Dual range of 15 V/7 A or 30 V/4 A
• Constant voltage (CV) or constant current (CC) operation
• Overvoltage protection (OVP) and overcurrent protection
(OCP)
• Three storage locations (1 to 3) for user- defined operating
states
• Automatic power- on self- test
• Remote sensing for load voltage
• User calibration from the front panel or via the remote
interfaces
Floating the power supply output more than ±60 Vdc from the
WA R N I N G
chassis presents an electric shock hazard to the operator. Do not
float the outputs more than ±60 Vdc when metal shorting bars
without insulation are used to connect the (+) output to the (+)
sense and the (–) output to the (–) sense terminals.
Options
Options 0EM, 0E3, and 0E9 determine which power- line
voltage is selected at the factory. The standard unit is
configured for 115 Vac ±10%, 47 Hz to 63 Hz input voltage.
For more information about changing the power- line voltage
setting, refer to “Power- line voltage selection” on page 14.
Option Description
OL2 Extra English manual set (local language manual files are included in the
CD-ROM, Agilent part number 5964-8251)
Accessories
The accessories listed below may be ordered from your local
Agilent Sales Office either with the power supply or
separately.
34398A • RS-232, 9 pin (f) to 9 pin (f), 2.5 m (8.2 ft.) cable
• 9 pin (f) to 25 pin (m) adapter
Preliminary checkout
1 Verify the power- line voltage setting on the rear panel.
The power- line voltage is set to the proper value for your
country when the power supply is shipped from the
factory. Change the voltage setting if it is not correct. The
settings are 100 Vac, 115 Vac, or 230 Vac.
2 Verify that the correct power- line fuse is installed.
The correct fuse is installed for your country when the
power supply is shipped from the factory. For 100 Vac or
115 Vac operation, you must use a 4 AT fuse. For 230 Vac
operation, you must use a 2.5 AT fuse.
3 Connect the power- line cord and turn on your power
supply.
The front- panel display will light up and a power- on
self- test occurs automatically when you turn on the power
supply.
Power-on checkout
The power- on test includes an automatic self- test that
checks the internal microprocessors and allows the user
visually check the display. You will observe the following
sequence on the display after pressing the front panel power
switch to on.
1 All segments of the display including all annunciators will
turn on for about one second.
To review the annunciators, hold down Display Limit as
you turn on the power supply.
2 The GPIB address or RS- 232 message will then be displayed
for about one second.
ADDR 5 (or RS-232)
The GPIB address is set to “5” when the power supply is
shipped from the factory for remote interface
configuration. If this is not the first time the power
supply is turned on, a different interface (RS- 232) or a
different GPIB address may appear.
3 The 15V, OVP, OCP, and OFF annunciators are on. All others
are off.
The power supply will go into the power- on/reset state,
the output is disabled (the OFF annunciator turns on),
the 15 V/7 A range is selected (the 15V annunciator turns
on), and the knob is selected for voltage control. Notice
that the OVP and OCP annunciator also turn on.
Output On/Off 4 Enable the outputs.
Press Output On/Off to enable the output. The OFF
annunciator turns off and the 15V, OVP, OCP, and CV
annunciators are lit. The blinking digit can be adjusted by
turning the knob. Notice that the display is in the meter
mode. Meter mode means that the display shows the
actual output voltage and current.
If the power supply detects an error during power-on self-test, the ERROR
NOTE annunciator will turn on. Refer to Chapter 4, “Error Messages”.
For each step, use the keys shown on the left margins.
NOTE
[1] You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the right
or left when setting the voltage.
If an error has been detected during the output checkout procedures, the
NOTE ERROR annunciator will turn on. Refer to Chapter 4, “Error Messages”.
If an error has been detected during the output checkout procedures, the ERROR annunciator will turn
on. See "Error Messages" for more information starting on page 121 in chapter 5.
Power-line cord
The power supply is shipped from the factory with a
power- line cord that has a plug appropriate for your
location. Contact the nearest Agilent Sales and Service Office
if the wrong power- line cord is included with your power
supply. Your power supply is equipped with a 3- wire
grounding type power cord where the third conductor is the
ground. The power supply is grounded only when the
power- line cord is plugged into an appropriate receptacle.
Do not operate your power supply without adequate cabinet
ground connection.
[1] You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the right
or left when setting the current.
Verify that the correct line voltage is selected and the power-line fuse
NOTE is good.
Product at a Glance
Front panel
No Item Description
1 15 V/7 A range selection key Select the 15 V/7 A range and allow the full rated output to 15 V/7 A.
2 30 V/4 A range selection key Select the 30 V/4 A range and allow the full rated output to 30 V/4 A.
No Item Description
3 Overvoltage protection key Enable or disable the overvoltage protection function, set the trip
voltage level, and clear the overvoltage condition.
4 Overcurrent protection key Enable or disable the overcurrent protection function, set the trip
current level, and clear the overcurrent condition.
5 Display limit key Display the voltage and current limit values on the display and allow
the knob adjustment for setting the limit values.
6 Recall operating state key Recall a previously stored operating state from location 1, 2, or 3.
[1]
7 Store operating state/Local key Store an operating state in location 1, 2, or 3 or return the power
supply to the local mode from the remote interface mode.
8 Error/Calibrate key[2] Display the error codes generated during operation, self-test, and
calibration or enable the calibration mode (the power supply must be
unsecured before performing calibration). Refer to the Service Guide
(E3632-90010) for more details on calibration.
9 I/O Configuration/Secure key[3] Configure the power supply for remote interfaces, or secure or
unsecure the power supply for calibration. Refer to the Service Guide
(E3632-90010) for more details on how to secure or unsecure the
power supply.
10 Output On/Off key Enable or disable the power supply output. This key toggles between
on and off.
11 Control knob Increase or decrease the value of the flashing digit by turning
clockwise or counter-clockwise.
12 Resolution selection keys Move the flashing digit to the right or left.
13 Voltage/Current adjust selection key Select the knob control function for voltage or current adjustment.
[1] The key can be used as the Local key when the power supply is in the remote interface mode.
[2] You can enable the calibration mode by holding down this key when you turn on the power supply.
[3] You can use it as the Secure or Unsecure key when the power supply is in the calibration mode.
All the front panel keys and controls can be disabled with the remote
NOTE interface commands. The power supply must be in the Local mode for the
front panel keys and controls to function.
Rear panel
No Description
3 AC inlet
4 Power-line module
Display annunciators
Item Description
Adrs The power supply is addressed to listen or talk over a remote interface.
OVP The overvoltage protection function is enabled when the annunciator turns on or the overvoltage
protection circuit has caused the power supply to shut down when the annunciator flashes.
OCP The overcurrent protection function is enabled when the annunciator turns on or the overcurrent
protection circuit has caused the power supply to shut down when the annunciator flashes.
Limit The display shows the limit values of the voltage and current.
Item Description
ERROR Hardware or remote interface command errors are detected and the error bit has not been cleared.
OFF The output of the power supply is disabled. Refer to “System-Related Operations” on page 46 for more
information.
Unreg The output of the power supply is unregulated (output is neither CV nor CC).
Cooling
The power supply can operate at the rated specifications
within the temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C. A fan cools
the power supply by drawing air through the sides and
exhausting it out the back. Using an Agilent rack- mount will
not impede the flow of air.
Bench operation
Your power supply must be installed in a location that
allows sufficient space at the sides and rear of the power
supply for adequate air circulation. The rubber bumpers
must be removed for rack- mounting.
Cleaning
No cleaning is required for this product. If you wish to
remove dust from the enclosure, use a dry cloth.
2
Operation and Features
Overview 26
Constant Voltage Operation 28
Constant Current Operation 30
Storing and Recalling Operating States 33
Programming the Overvoltage Protection 35
Programming the Overcurrent Protection 38
Remote Voltage Sensing 41
Disabling the Output 44
System-Related Operations 46
Remote Interface Configuration 51
GPIB Interface Configuration 56
RS-232 Interface Configuration 57
Calibration 63
Agilent Technologies 25
2 Operation and Features
Overview
Overview
The following section describes an overview of the front
panel keys before operating your power supply.
• The power supply is shipped from the factory configured
in the front panel operation mode. At power- on, the
power supply is automatically set to operate in the front
panel operation mode. When in this mode, the front panel
keys can be used. When the power supply is in remote
operation mode, you can return to front panel operation
mode at any time by pressing Local if you did not
previously send the front panel lockout command. A
change between front panel and remote operation modes
will not result in a change in the output parameters.
• The power supply has two output ranges of 15 V/7 A or
30 V/4 A. This feature allows more voltage at a lower
current or more current at a lower voltage. The desired
output range is selected from the front panel or over the
remote interfaces. The 15V or 30V annunciator indicates
the presently selected range.
• When you press Display Limit (the Limit annunciator
flashes), the display of the power supply goes to the limit
mode and the present limit values will be displayed. In
this mode, you can also observe the change of the limit
values when adjusting the knob. If you press
Display Limit again or let the display time- out after
several seconds, the power supply will return the display
to the meter mode (the Limit annunciator turns off). In
this mode, the actual output voltage and current will be
displayed.
• The output of the power supply can be enabled or
disabled from the front panel using Output On/Off . When
the output is off, the OFF annunciator turns on and the
output is disabled.
In the constant voltage mode, the voltage values between the meter and
NOTE limit modes are the same, but the current values are not. Moreover, if the
display is in the meter mode, you cannot see the change of current limit
value when adjusting the knob. We recommend that you should set the
display to the limit mode to see the change of current limit value in the
constant voltage mode whenever adjusting the knob.
[1] You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the right
or left when setting current.
[2] You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the right
or left when setting voltage.
In constant current mode, the current values between the meter mode and
NOTE limit mode are the same, but the voltage values are not. Moreover, if the
display is in the meter mode, you cannot see the change of voltage limit
value when adjusting the knob. We recommend that you should set the
display to the limit mode to see the change of voltage limit value in the
constant current mode whenever adjusting the knob.
[1] You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the right
or left when setting the voltage.
Over Voltage 3 Enter the OVP menu and set the desired trip level.
LEVEL 32.0 V
You will see the above message on the display when you
enter the OVP menu. Adjust the control knob for the
desired OVP trip level. Note that you cannot set the trip
levels to lower than 1.0 V.
Over Voltage 4 Enable the OVP circuit.
OVP ON
You will see the above message after pressing
Over Voltage .
Over Voltage 5 Exit the OVP menu.
CHANGED
The CHANGED message is highlighted for a second to show
that the new OVP trip level is now in effect. If the OVP
settings are not changed, NO CHANGE will be displayed.
The power supply will exit the OVP menu and the display
will return to the meter mode. Check that the OVP
annunciator turns on.
Over Voltage or 1 Readjust the OVP trip level or the output voltage level.
Display Limit Lower the output voltage level below the OVP trip point
after pressing Display Limit or raise the OVP trip level
by using the knob after pressing Over Voltage .
Over Voltage 2 Move to the clear mode.
OVP ON
You will see the above message after pressing
Over Voltage . If you changed the output voltage level,
press the Over Voltage twice. Turn the knob to the right
until the OVP CLEAR message appears on the display.
Over Voltage 3 Clear the overvoltage condition and exit this menu.
Now, when you press Over Voltage again, the DONE
message is displayed for a second and the OVP
annunciator will not flash any more. The output will
return to meter mode.
The power supply’s OVP circuit contains a crowbar SCR, which effectively
NOTE shorts the output of the power supply whenever the overvoltage condition
occurs. If external voltage source such as a battery is connected across
the output, and the overvoltage condition inadvertently occurs, the SCR
will continuously sink a large current from the source and possibly damage
the power supply. To avoid this a diode must be connected in series with
the output as shown in Figure 2-1.
Over Current or 1 Readjust the OCP trip level or the output current level.
Display Limit Lower the output current level below the OCP trip point
after pressing Display Limit or raise the OCP trip level
by using the knob after pressing Over Current .
Over Current 2 Move to the clear mode.
OCP ON
You will see the above message after pressing
Over Current . If you changed the output voltage level,
press the Over Current twice. Turn the knob to the right
until the OCP CLEAR message appears on the display.
Over Current 3 Clear the overcoltage condition and exit this menu.
Now, when you press Over Current again, the DONE
message is displayed for a second and the OCP
annunciator will not flash any more. The output will
return to meter mode.
CV regulation
The voltage load regulation specification in Chapter 7
applies at the output terminals of the power supply. When
remote sensing, add 5 mV to this specification for each 1 V
drop between the positive sensing point and (+) output
terminal due to the change in load current. Because the
sense leads are part of the power supply’s feedback path,
keep the resistance of the sense leads at or below 0.5 Ω per
lead to maintain the above specified performance.
Output rating
The rated output voltage and current specifications in
Chapter 7 apply at the output terminals of the power
supply. With remote sensing, any voltage dropped in the
load leads must be added to the load voltage to calculate
maximum output voltage. The performance specifications are
not guaranteed when the maximum output voltage is
exceeded. If the excessive demand on the power supply
forces the power supply to lose regulation, the Unreg
annunciator will turn on to indicate that the output is
unregulated.
Output noise
Any noise picked up on the sense leads also appears at the
output of the power supply and may adversely affect the
voltage load regulation. Twist the sense leads to minimize
external noise pickup and run them parallel and close to the
load leads. In noisy environments it may be necessary to
shield the sense leads. Ground the shield at the power
supply end only. Do not use the shield as one of the sense
conductors.
Stability
Using remote sensing under certain combinations of load
lead lengths and large load capacitances may cause your
application to form a filter, which becomes part of the
voltage feedback loop. The extra phase shift created by this
filter can degrade the power supply’s stability, resulting in
poor transient response or loop instability. In severe cases,
it may cause oscillations. To minimize this possibility, keep
the load leads as short as possible and twist them together.
As the sense leads are part of the power supply’s
programming feedback loop, accidental open- connections of
While the output is disabled, the range selection keys, the control knob,
NOTE resolution selection keys, and adjust selection key are still working. If the
display is in the meter mode, you cannot see the changes of output voltage
and current settings on the display when turning the knob. To see or check
the changes when the outputs are disabled, the display should be in the
limit mode.
Knob locking
The knob locking function can be used to disable the knob,
thereby preventing any unwanted changes during an
experiment, or when you leave the power supply unattended.
To disable the knob, press the resolution selection key until
the blinking digit disappears.
Notice that the knob and front panel keys are disabled when
in the remote interface mode.
System-Related Operations
This section gives information on topics such as self- test,
error conditions, and front- panel display control. This
information is not directly related to setting up the power
supply but is an important part of operating the power
supply.
Self-test
A power- on self- test occurs automatically when you turn on
the power supply. This test assures you that the power
supply is operational. This test does not perform the
extensive set of tests that are included as part of the
complete self- test described below. If the power- on self- test
fails, the ERROR annunciator turns on.
A complete self- test performs a series of tests and takes
approximately two seconds to execute. If all tests pass, you
can have a high confidence that the power supply is
operational.
If the complete self- test is successful, PASS is displayed on
the front panel. If the self- test fails, FAIL is displayed and
the ERROR annunciator turns on. See the Service Guide
(E3632- 90010) for instructions on returning the power
supply to Agilent for service.
Error conditions
When the front- panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or
more command syntax or hardware errors have been
detected. A record of up to 20 errors can be stored in the
power supply’s error queue. Refer to Chapter 4, “Error
Messages” for more information.
• Errors are retrieved in first- in- first- out (FIFO) order. The
first error returned is the first error that was stored.
When you have read all errors from the queue, the
ERROR annunciator turns off. The power supply beeps
once each time an error is generated.
• If more than 20 errors have occurred when you operate
the power supply over the remote interface, the last error
stored in the queue (the most recent error) is replaced
with - 350, “Queue overflow”. No additional errors are
stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no
errors have occurred when you read the error queue, the
power supply responds with +0, “No error” over the
remote interface or NO ERRORS from the front panel.
• The error queue is cleared when power has been off or
after a *CLS (clear status) command has been executed.
The *RST (reset) command does not clear the error
queue.
Display control
For security reasons, you may want to turn off the
front- panel display. From the remote interface, you can
display a 12- character message on the front panel.
The display can be enabled/disabled from the remote
interface only.
• When the display is turned off, outputs are not sent to
the display and all annunciators are disabled except the
ERROR annunciator. Front- panel operation is otherwise
unaffected by turning off the display.
• The display state is stored in volatile memory; the display
is always enabled when power has been off, after a
remote interface reset, or after returning to local from
remote.
• You can display a message on the front panel by sending
a command from the remote interface. The power supply
can display up to 12 characters of the message on the
front panel; any additional characters are truncated.
Commas, periods, and semicolons share a display space
with the preceding character, and are not considered
individual characters. When a message is displayed,
outputs are not sent to the display.
• Sending a message to the display from the remote
interface overrides the display state; this means that you
can display a message even if the display is turned off.
The display state is automatically turned on when you
return to the local (front panel) operation. Press Local
to return to the local state from the remote interface.
You can query the SCPI version from the remote interface
only.
GPIB address
Each device on the GPIB (IEEE- 488) interface must have a
unique address. You can set the power supply’s address to
any value between 0 and 30. The current address is
displayed momentarily on the front panel when you turn on
the power supply. The address is set to 05 when the power
supply is shipped from the factory.
The GPIB address can be set from the front- panel only.
• The address is stored in non- volatile memory, and does
not change when power has been off or after a remote
interface reset.
• Your GPIB bus controller has its own address. Be sure to
avoid the bus controller’s address for any instrument on
the interface bus. Agilent controllers generally use address
21.
I/O Config 4 Save the change and turn off the I/O configuration mode.
CHANGE SAVED
The address is stored in non- volatile memory, and does
not change when power has been off or after a remote
interface reset. The power supply displays a message to
show that the change is now in effect. If the GPIB address
is not changed, NO CHANGE will be displayed for one
second.
To exit the I/O configuration mode without any further changes, press
NOTE I/O Config until the NO CHANGE message is displayed.
To exit the I/O configuration mode without any further changes, press
NOTE I/O Config until the NO CHANGE message is displayed.
IEEE-488 states that you should exercise caution if your individual cable
NOTE lengths exceed 4 m.
Baud rate:
• 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 baud (factory- setting)
5182-4794
Cable
Instrument PC
DCD 1 1 DCD
RX 2 2 RX
TX 3 3 TX
DTR 4 4 DTR
GND 5 5 GND
DSR 6 6 DSR
RTS 7 7 RTS
CTS 8 8 CTS
RI 9 9 RI
5182-4794 5181-6641
Cable Adapter
Instrument PC
DCD 1 1 1 2 TX
RX 2 2 2 3 RX
TX 3 3 3 4 RTS
DTR 4 4 4 5 CTS
GND 5 5 5 6 DSR
DSR 6 6 6 7 GND
RTS 7 7 7 8 DCD
CTS 8 8 8 20 DTR
RI 9 9 9
The power supply sets the DTR line FALSE in the following
cases:
1 When the power supply’s input buffer is full (when
approximately 100 characters have been received), it sets
the DTR line FALSE (pin 4 on the RS- 232 connector).
When enough characters have been removed to make
space in the input buffer, the power supply sets the DTR
line TRUE, unless the second case (see next) prevents
this.
2 When the power supply wants to “talk” over the interface
(which means that it has processed a query) and has
received a <new line> message terminator, it will set the
DTR line FALSE. This implies that once a query has been
sent to the power supply, the bus controller should read
the response before attempting to send more data. It also
means that a <new line> must terminate the command
string. After the response has been output, the power
supply sets the DTR line TRUE again, unless the first case
(see above) prevents this.
The power supply monitors the DSR line to determine when
the bus controller is ready to accept data over the interface.
The power supply monitors the DSR line (pin 6 on the
RS- 232 connector) before each character is sent. The output
is suspended if the DSR line is FALSE. When the DSR line
goes TRUE, transmission will resume.
The power supply holds the DTR line FALSE while output is
suspended. A form of interface deadlock exists until the bus
controller asserts the DSR line TRUE to allow the power
supply to complete the transmission. You can break the
interface deadlock by sending the <Ctrl- C> character, which
clears the operation in progress and discards pending output
(this is equivalent to the IEEE- 488 device clear action).
RS-232 troubleshooting
Here are a few things to check if you are having problems
communicating over the RS- 232 interface. If you need
additional help, refer to the documentation that came with
your computer.
• Verify that the power supply and your computer are
configured for the same baud rate, parity, and number of
data bits. Make sure that your computer is set up for one
start bit and two stop bits (these values are fixed on the
power supply).
• Make sure to execute the SYSTem:REMote command to
place the power supply in the remote mode.
• Verify that you have connected the correct interface cable
and adapters. Even if the cable has the proper connectors
for your system, the internal wiring may be incorrect. The
Agilent 34398A Cable Kit can be used to connect the
power supply to most computers or terminals.
• Verify that you have connected the interface cable to the
correct serial port on your computer (COM1, COM2, etc).
Calibration
This section gives an overview of the calibration features of
the power supply. For more detailed discussion of the
calibration procedures, refer to the Service Guide
(E3632- 90010).
Calibration security
This feature allows you to enter a security code to prevent
accidental or unauthorized calibrations of the power supply.
When you first receive your power supply, it is secured.
Before you can calibrate the power supply, you must
unsecure it by entering the correct security code.
• The security code is set to “HP003632” when the power
supply is shipped from the factory. The security code is
stored in non- volatile memory, and does not change when
power has been off or after a remote interface reset.
• To secure the power supply from the remote interface, the
security code may contain up to 12 alphanumeric
characters as shown below. The first character must be a
letter, but the remaining characters can be letters or
numbers. You do not have to use all 12 characters but the
first character must always be a letter.
A _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (12 characters)
• To secure the power supply from the remote interface so
that it can be unsecured from the front panel, use the
eight- character format shown below. The first two
characters must be “H P” and the remaining characters
must be numbers. Only the last six characters are
recognized from the front panel, but all eight characters
are required. To unsecure the power supply from the front
panel, omit the “H P” and enter the remaining numbers as
shown on the following pages.
H P _ _ _ _ _ _ (8 characters)
If you forget your security code, you can disable the security feature by
NOTE adding a jumper inside the power supply, and then entering a new code.
Refer to the Service Guide (E3632-90010) for more information.
Calibration count
You can determine the number of times that your power
supply has been calibrated. Your power supply was
calibrated before it left the factory. When you receive your
power supply, read the count to determine its initial value.
The calibration count feature can be performed from the
remote interface only.
• The calibration count is stored in non- volatile memory,
and does not change when power has been turned off or
after a remote interface reset.
• The calibration count increments up to a maximum of
32767 after which it wraps- around to 0. Since the value
increments by one for each calibration point, a complete
calibration will increase the value by five counts.
Calibration message
You can use the calibration message feature to record
calibration information about your power supply. For
example, you can store such information as the last
calibration date, the next calibration due date, the power
supply’s serial number, or even the name and phone number
of the person to contact for a new calibration.
You can record and read information in the calibration
message from the remote interface only.
• The power supply should be unsecured before sending a
calibration message.
• The calibration message may contain up to 40 characters.
• The calibration message is stored in non- volatile memory,
and does not change when power has been off or after a
remote interface reset.
3
Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary 70
Introduction to the SCPI Language 74
Simplified Programming Overview 80
Using the APPLy Command 83
Output Settings and Operation Commands 85
Triggering Commands 93
System-Related Commands 96
Calibration Commands 102
RS-232 Interface Commands 106
SCPI Status Registers 107
Status Reporting Commands 117
Halting an Output in Progress 121
SCPI Conformance Information 122
IEEE-488 Conformance Information 125
Agilent Technologies 69
3 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary
Triggering Commands
INITiate[:IMMediate]
TRIGger[:SEQuence]
:DELay {<seconds>|MIN|MAX}
:DELay?
:SOURce {BUS|IMM}
:SOURce?
*TRG
System-Related Commands
DISPlay[:WINDow]
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATe]?
:TEXT[:DATA] <quoted string>
:TEXT[:DATA]?
:TEXT:CLEar
SYSTem
:BEEPer[:IMMediate]
:ERRor?
:VERSion?
OUTPut
:RELay[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
:RELay[:STATe]?
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATe]?
*IDN?
*RST
*TST?
*SAV {1|2|3}
*RCL {1|2|3}
Calibration Commands
CALibration
:COUNt?
:CURRent[:DATA] <numeric value>
:CURRent:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:CURRent:PROTection
:DAC:ERRor
:SECure:CODE <new code>
:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},<code>
:SECure:STATe?
:STRing <quoted string>
:STRing?
:VOLTage[:DATA] <numeric value>
:VOLTage:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection
Command separators
A colon (:) is used to separate a command keyword from a
lower- level keyword as shown below:
SOURce:CURRent:TRIGgered
A semicolon (;) is used to separate two commands within
the same subsystem, and can also minimize typing. For
example, sending the following command string,
SOUR:VOLT MIN;CURR MAX
is the same as sending the following two commands:
SOUR:VOLT MIN
SOUR:CURR MAX
Use a colon and a semicolon to link commands from
different subsystems. For example, in the following command
string, an error is generated if you do not use the colon and
semicolon:
DISP:TEXT:CLE;:SOUR:CURR MIN
If you send two query commands without reading the response from
CAUTION
the first, and then attempt to read the second response, you may
receive some data from the first response followed by the complete
second response. To avoid this, do not send a query command without
reading the response. When you cannot avoid this situation, send a
device clear before sending the second query command.
Numeric parameters
Commands that require numeric parameters will accept all
commonly used decimal representations of numbers
including optional signs, decimal points, and scientific
notation. Special values for numeric parameters like
MINimum, MAXimum, and DEFault are also accepted.
Discrete parameters
Discrete parameters are used to program settings that have a
limited number of values such as BUS and IMM. Query
responses will always return the short form in all
upper- case letters. The following command uses discrete
parameters:
TRIG:SOUR {BUS|IMM}
Boolean parameters
Boolean parameters represent a single binary condition that
is either true or false. For a false condition, the power
supply will accept OFF or 0. For a true condition, the power
supply will accept ON or 1. When you query a boolean
setting, the power supply will always return 0 or 1. The
following command uses a boolean parameter:
DISP {OFF|ON}
String parameters
String parameters can contain virtually any set of ASCII
characters. A string must begin and end with matching
quotes; either with a single quote or with a double quote.
You can include the quote delimiter as part of the string by
typing it twice without any characters in between. The
following command uses a string parameter:
DISP:TEXT <quoted string>
0 to 15 V /7 A range 0 to 30 V /4 A range
MIN value 0V
DEFault value 0V
*RST value 0V
MIN value 0A
DEFault value 7A 4A
*RST value 7A
APPLy?
This command queries the power supply’s present voltage
and current setting values and returns a quoted string. The
voltage and current are returned in sequence as shown in
the sample string below (the quotation marks are returned
as part of the string).
“15.00000, 4.00000”
In the above string, the first number 15.00000 is the voltage
setting value and the second number 4.00000 is the current
setting value.
CURRent {<current>|MINimum|MAXimum|UP|DOWN}
This command programs the immediate current level of the
power supply. The immediate level is the current value of
the output terminals.
The CURRent command changes the output of the power
supply to the newly programmed value regardless of the
output range presently selected.
You can substitute MINimum or MAXimum in place of a
specific value for the current parameter. MIN selects the
lowest current values of 0 A. MAX selects the highest current
values allowed for the selected range.
This command also increases or decreases the immediate
current level using the UP or DOWN parameter by a
predetermined amount. The command CURRent:STEP sets
the amount of increment and decrement. Notice that a new
increment setting will cause an execution error - 222 (Data
out of range) when the maximum or the minimum rated
current is exceeded.
CURRent? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the presently programmed current level
of the power supply. CURR? MAX and CURR? MIN return the
highest and lowest programmable current levels for the
selected range.
CURRent:STEP? [DEFault]
This query returns the value of the step size currently
specified. The returned parameter is a numeric value.
DEFault gives the minimum resolution of the step size in
unit of amps.
Example
The following program segments show how to use the CURR
UP or CURR DOWN command to increase or decrease the
output current with the CURR:STEP command.
CURRent:TRIGgered
{<current>|MINimum|MAXimum}
This command programs the pending triggered current level.
The pending triggered current level is a stored value that is
transferred to the output terminals when a trigger occurs. A
pending triggered level is not affected by subsequent
CURRent commands.
CURRent:TRIGgered? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the triggered current level presently
programmed. If no triggered level is programmed, the
CURRent level is returned. CURR:TRIG? MAX and
CURR:TRIG? MIN return the highest and lowest
programmable triggered current levels.
CURRent:PROTection
{<current>|MINimum|MAXimum}
This command sets the current level at which the
overcurrent protection (OCP) circuit will trip. If the peak
output current exceeds the OCP level, then the output
current is programmed to zero. The Questionable Status
register “OC” bit is set (refer to “SCPI status system” on
page 108). An overcurrent condition can be cleared with the
CURR:PROT:CLE command after the condition that caused
the OCP trip is removed.
CURRent:PROTection? {MINimum|MAXimum}
This query returns the overcurrent protection trip level
presently programmed. CURR:PROT? MAX and CURR:PROT?
MIN return the maximum and minimum programmable
overcurrent trip levels.
CURRent:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
This command enables or disables the overcurrent protection
function of the power supply. An overcurrent condition can
be cleared with the CURR:PROT:CLE command after the
condition that caused the OCP trip is removed. At *RST, this
value is set to ON.
CURRent:PROTection:STATe?
This query returns the state of the overcurrent protection
function. The returned parameter is 0 (OFF) or 1 (ON).
CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped?
This query returns a 1 if the overcurrent protection circuit
is tripped and not cleared or a 0 if not tripped.
CURRent:PROTection:CLEar
This command causes the overcurrent protection circuit to
be cleared. After this command, the output current is
restored to the state it was in before the current protection
tripped and the OCP trip level remains unchanged to the
value presently programmed. Before sending this command,
lower the output current below the trip OCP point, or raise
the OCP trip level above the output setting.
VOLTage {<voltage>|MINimum|MAXimum|UP|DOWN}
This command programs the immediate voltage level of the
power supply. The immediate level is the voltage value of the
output terminals.
The VOLTage command changes the output of the power
supply to the newly programmed value regardless of the
output range presently selected.
You can substitute MINimum or MAXimum in place of a
specific value for the voltage parameter. MIN selects the
lowest voltage values of 0 V. MAX selects the highest voltage
values allowed for the selected range.
VOLTage? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the presently programmed voltage level of
the power supply. VOLT? MAX and VOLT? MIN return the
highest and lowest programmable voltage levels for the
selected range.
VOLTage:STEP? [DEFault]
This query returns the value of the step size currently
specified. The returned parameter is a numeric value.
DEFault gives the minimum resolution step size in unit of
volts.
Example
The following program segments show how to use the VOLT
UP or VOLT DOWN command to increase or decrease the
output voltage with the VOLT:STEP command.
VOLTage:TRIGgered
{<voltage>|MINimum|MAXimum}
This command programs the pending triggered voltage level.
The pending triggered voltage level is a stored value that is
transferred to the output terminals when a trigger occurs. A
pending triggered level is not affected by subsequent
VOLTage commands.
VOLTage:TRIGgered? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the triggered voltage level presently
programmed. If no triggered level is programmed, the VOLT
level is returned. VOLT:TRIG? MAX and VOLT:TRIG? MIN
return the highest and lowest programmable triggered
voltage levels.
VOLTage:PROTection
{<voltage>|MINimum|MAXimum}
This command sets the voltage level at which the overvoltage
protection (OVP) circuit will trip. If the peak output voltage
exceeds the OVP level, then the power supply output is
shorted by an internal SCR. The Questionable Status register
“OV” bit is set (refer to “SCPI status system” on page 108).
An overvoltage condition can be cleared with the
VOLT:PROT:CLE command after the condition that caused
the OVP trip is removed.
VOLTage:PROTection? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the overvoltage protection trip level
presently programmed. VOLT:PROT? MAX and VOLT:PROT?
MIN return the maximum and minimum programmable
overvoltage trip levels.
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
This command enables or disables the overvoltage protection
function. An overvoltage condition can be cleared with the
VOLT:PROT:CLE command after the condition that caused
the OVP trip is removed. At *RST, this value is set to ON.
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?
This query returns the state of the overvoltage protection
function. The returned parameter is 0 (OFF) or 1 (ON).
VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?
This query returns a 1 if the overvoltage protection circuit is
tripped and not cleared or a 0 if not tripped.
VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar
This command causes the overvoltage protection circuit to be
cleared. After this command, the output voltage is restored
to the state it was in before the protection feature occurred
and the OVP trip level remains unchanged to the value
presently programmed. Before sending this command, lower
the output voltage below the OVP trip point, or raise the
OVP trip level above the output setting.
VOLTage:RANGe {P15V|P30V||LOW|HIGH}
This command selects an output range to be programmed by
the identifier. When 15 V/7 A range is selected, the
maximum programmable voltage and current are limited to
15.45 V and 7.21 A. When 30 V/4 A range is selected, the
maximum programmable voltage and current are limited to
30.90 V and 4.12 A. P30V or HIGH is the identifier for the
0 V/4 A range and P15V or LOW is for the 15 V/7 A range.
At *RST, the 15 V/7 A range is selected.
VOLTage:RANGe?
This query returns the currently selected range. The
returned parameter is P30V (HIGH) or P15V (LOW).
MEASure:CURRent?
This query returns the current measured across the current
sense resistor inside the power supply.
MEASure[:VOLTage]?
This query returns the voltage measured at the sense
terminals of the power supply.
Triggering Commands
The power supply’s triggering system allows a change in
voltage and current when receiving a trigger, to select a
trigger source, and to insert a trigger. Triggering the power
supply is a multi- step process.
• First, you must specify the source from which the power
supply will accept the trigger. The power supply will
accept a bus (software) trigger or an immediate trigger
from the remote interface.
• Then, you can set the time delay between the detection of
the trigger on the specified trigger source and the start of
any corresponding output change. Notice that the time
delay is valid for only the bus trigger source.
• Finally, you must provide an INITiate command. If the
IMMediate source is selected, the selected output is set
to the triggered level immediately. But if the trigger
source is the bus, the power supply is set to the triggered
level after receiving the Group Execute Trigger (GET) or
*TRG command.
Immediate triggering
• To select the immediate trigger source, send the following
command.
TRIG:SOUR IMM
• When IMMediate is selected as a trigger source, an
INITiate command immediately transfers the
VOLT:TRIG or CURR:TRIG value to the VOLT or CURR
value. Any delay is ignored.
Triggering commands
INITiate
Cause the trigger system to initiate. This command
completes one full trigger cycle when the trigger source is an
immediate and initiates the trigger subsystem when the
trigger source is bus.
TRIGger:DELay {<seconds>|MINimum|MAXimum}
Set the time delay between the detection of an event on the
specified trigger source and the start of any corresponding
trigger action on the power supply output. Select from 0 to
3600 seconds. MIN = 0 seconds. MAX = 3600 seconds. At
*RST, this value is set to 0 seconds.
TRIGger:DELay? [MINimum|MAXimum]
This query returns the trigger delay.
TRIGger:SOURce {BUS|IMMediate}
Select the source from which the power supply will accept a
trigger. The power supply will accept a bus (software) trigger
or an internal immediate trigger. At *RST, the bus trigger
source is selected.
TRIGger:SOURce?
This query returns the present trigger source. Returns BUS
or IMM.
*TRG
Generate a trigger to the trigger subsystem that has selected
a bus (software) trigger as its source (TRIG:SOUR BUS). The
command has the same effect as the Group Execute Trigger
(GET) command. For RS- 232 operation, make sure the power
supply is in the remote interface mode by sending the
SYST:REM command first.
System-Related Commands
DISPlay {OFF|ON}
Turn the front- panel display off or on. When the display is
turned off, outputs are not sent to the display and all
annunciators are disabled except the ERROR annunciator.
The display state is automatically turned on when you
return to the local mode. Press Local to return to the local
state from the remote interface.
DISPlay?
This query returns the front- panel display setting. Returns 0
(OFF) or 1 (ON).
DISPlay:TEXT?
This query returns the message sent to the front panel and
returns a quoted string.
DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar
Clear the message displayed on the front panel.
OUTPut {OFF|ON}
Enable or disable the outputs of the power supply. When the
output is disabled, the voltage value is 0 V and the current
value is 20 mA. At *RST, the output state is OFF.
OUTPut?
This query returns the output state of the power supply. The
returned value is 0 (OFF) or 1 (ON).
OUTPut:RELay {OFF|ON}
This command sets the state of two TTL signals on the
RS- 232 connector. These signals are intended for use with
an external relay and relay driver. The TTL output is
available on the RS- 232 connector pin 1 and pin 9. When
the OUTPut:RELay state is ON, the TTL output of pin 1 is
high (4.5 V) and pin 9 is low (0.5 V). The levels are reversed
when the OUTPut:RELay state is OFF. At *RST, the
OUTPut:RELay state is OFF.
TTL output of pin 1 or pin 9 of the RS- 232 connector is
available only after installing two jumpers inside the power
supply. Refer to the Service Guide for more information.
Do not use the RS-232 interface if you have configured the power supply to
NOTE output relay control signals. Internal components on the RS-232 circuitry
may be damaged.
OUTPut:RELay?
This command returns the state of the TTL relay logic
signals. See also OUTP:REL command.
SYSTem:BEEPer
Issue a single beep immediately.
SYSTem:ERRor?
This command queries the power supply’s error queue. When
the front- panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or more
command syntax or hardware errors have been detected. Up
to 20 errors can be stored in the error queue. See
Chapter 4, “Error Messages” for more details.
• Errors are retrieved in the first- in- first- out (FIFO) order.
The first error returned is the first error that was stored.
When you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR
annunciator turns off. The power supply beeps once each
time an error is generated.
• If more than 20 errors have occurred, the last error
stored in the queue (the most recent error) is replaced
with - 350, “Queue overflow”. No additional errors are
stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no
errors have occurred when you read the error queue, the
power supply responds with +0, “No error”.
• The error queue is cleared when power has been off or
after a *CLS (clear status) command has been executed.
The *RST (reset) command does not clear the error
queue.
SYSTem:VERSion?
This query returns the power supply to determine the
present SCPI version. The returned value is a string in the
form of YYYY.V where the Y represents the year of the
version, and the V represents a version number for that year
(for example, 1995.0).
*IDN?
This query command reads the power supply’s identification
string. The power supply returns four fields separated by
commas. The first field is the manufacturer’s name, the
second field is the model number, the third field is not used
(always 0), and the fourth field is a revision code which
contains three numbers. The first number is the firmware
revision number for the main power supply processor; the
second is for the input/output processor; and the third is for
the front- panel processor.
The command returns a string with the following format (be
sure to dimension a string variable with at least 40
characters):
HEWLETT-PACKARD,E3632A,0,X.X-X.X-X.X
*RST
This command resets the power supply to its power- on state
as follows:
Command State
CURR 7A
CURR:TRIG 7A
CURR:PROT 7.5 A
CURR:PROT:STAT ON
DISP ON
OUTP OFF
OUTP:REL OFF
TRIG:DEL 0
TRIG:SOUR BUS
Command State
VOLT 0V
VOLT:TRIG 0V
VOLT:PROT 32 V
VOLT:PROT:STAT ON
*TST?
This query performs a complete self- test of the power
supply. Returns 0 if the self- test passes or 1 or any
non- zero value if it fails. If the self- test fails, an error
message is also generated with additional information on
why the test has failed.
*SAV {1|2|3}
This command stores the present state of the power supply
to the specified location in non- volatile memory. Three
memory locations (numbered 1, 2, and 3) are available to
store operating states of the power supply. The state storage
feature “remembers” the states or values of the following
commands:
CURR, CURR:STEP, CURR:TRIG, CURR:PROT,
CURR:PROT:STAT, DISP, OUTP, OUTP:REL, TRIG:DEL,
TRIG:SOUR, VOLT, VOLT:STEP, VOLT:TRIG,
VOLT:PROT, VOLT:PROT:STAT, and VOLT:RANG
To recall a stored state, you must use the same memory
location used previously to store the state.
*RCL {1|2|3}
This command recalls a previously stored state. To recall a
stored state, you must use the same memory location used
previously to store the state.
Calibration Commands
Refer to “Calibration” on page 63 for an overview of the
calibration features of the power supply. For more detailed
discussion on the calibration procedures, refer to the Service
Guide.
When you calibrate the power supply, you should not set the OVP to the
NOTE ON state in order to prevent OVP from tripping.
CALibration:COUNt?
This command queries the power supply to determine the
number of times it has been calibrated. Your power supply
was calibrated before it left the factory. When you receive
your power supply, read the count to determine its initial
value. Since the value increments by one for each calibration
point, a complete calibration will increase the value by five
counts.
CALibration:CURRent:LEVel
{MINimum|MIDdle|MAXimum}
This command can only be used after calibration is
unsecured and the output state is ON. It sets the power
supply to a calibration point that is entered with the
CAL:CURR command. During calibration, three points must
be entered and the low- end point (MIN) must be selected
and entered first.
CALibration:CURRent:PROTection
This command calibrates the overcurrent protection circuit
of the power supply. It takes about seven seconds to execute
the command. The calibration must be unsecured and the
output shorted before calibrating the overcurrent protection.
The power supply automatically performs the calibration and
stores the new overcurrent constant in non- volatile memory.
Notice that current calibration precedes before sending this
command.
CALibration:DAC:ERRor
This command corrects the differential nonlinearity error of
the internal DAC without an external meter. You must send
this command before calibrating the voltage. It takes about
30 seconds to execute the command.
CALibration:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},<code>
This command unsecures or secures the power supply for
calibration. The calibration code may contain up to 12
characters over the remote interface.
CALibration:SECure:STATe?
Query the secured state for calibration of the power supply.
The returned parameter is 0 (OFF) or 1 (ON).
CALibration:STRing?
This command queries the calibration message and returns a
quoted string.
CALibration:VOLTage:LEVel
{MINimum|MIDdle|MAXimum}
This command can only be used after calibration is
unsecured and the output state is ON. It sets the power
supply to a calibration point that is entered with the
CAL:VOLT command. During calibration, three points must
be entered and the low- end point (MIN) must be selected
and entered first.
CALibration:VOLTage:PROTection
This command calibrates the overvoltage protection circuit of
the power supply. It takes about seven seconds to execute
the command. The calibration must be unsecured and the
output be opened before calibrating the overvoltage
protection circuit. The power supply automatically performs
the calibration and stores the new overvoltage constant in
non- volatile memory. Notice that voltage calibration precedes
before sending this command.
SYSTem:LOCal
This command places the power supply in the local mode
during RS- 232 operation. All keys on the front panel are
fully functional.
SYSTem:REMote
This command places the power supply in the remote mode
for RS- 232 operation. All keys on the front panel, except the
Local key, are disabled.
It is very important that you send the SYST:REM command to place the
NOTE power supply in the remote mode. Sending or receiving data over the
RS-232 interface when not configured for remote operation can cause
unpredictable results.
SYSTem:RWLock
This command places the power supply in the remote mode
for RS- 232 operation. This command is the same as the
SYST:REM command except that all keys on the front panel
are disabled, including the Local key.
Ctrl-C
This command clears the operation in progress over the
RS- 232 interface and discards any pending output data. This
is equivalent to the IEEE- 488 device clear action over the
GPIB interface.
20 = 1
21 = 2
22 = 4
23 = 8
24 = 16
25 = 32
26 = 64
27 = 128
28 = 256
29 = 512
210 = 1024
211 = 2048
212 = 4096
213 = 8192
214 = 16384
215 = 32768
2 QYE 4 Query Error. The power supply tried to read the output buffer but it was
empty. Or, a new command line was received before a previous query
had been read. Or, both the input and output buffers are full.
7 PON 128 Power On. Power has been turned off and on since the last time the
event register was read or cleared.
3 QUES 8 One or more bits are set in the Questionable Status register (bits must
be enabled in the enable register).
The request service bit is cleared only by reading the Status Byte using an
NOTE IEEE-488 serial poll or by reading the event register whose summary bit is
causing the service request.
Refer to “SCPI status system” on page 108 for detailed information of the
NOTE status register structure of the power supply.
SYSTem:ERRor?
This query command reads one error from the error queue.
When the front- panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or
more command syntax or hardware errors have been
detected. A record of up to 20 errors can be stored in the
power supply’s error queue. Refer to Chapter 4, “Error
Messages” for more details.
• Errors are retrieved in the first- in- first- out (FIFO) order.
The first error returned is the first error that was stored.
When you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR
annunciator turns off. The power supply beeps once each
time an error is generated.
• If more than 20 errors have occurred, the last error
stored in the queue (the most recent error) is replaced
with - 350, “Queue overflow”. No additional errors are
stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no
errors have occurred when you read the error queue, the
power supply responds with +0, “No error”.
• The error queue is cleared when power has been off or
after a *CLS (clear status) command has been executed.
The *RST (reset) command does not clear the error
queue.
STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition?
This command queries the Questionable Status condition
register to check CV or CC mode of the power supply. The
power supply returns a decimal value which corresponds to
the binary- weighted sum of all bits in the register. These
bits are not latched. If 0 is returned, the power supply is in
output off or unregulated state. If 1 is returned, the power
supply is in the CC operating mode and if 2 is returned, the
power supply is in the CV operating mode. If 3 is returned,
the power supply is in failure.
STATus:QUEStionable?
This command queries the Questionable Status event
register. The power supply returns a decimal value which
corresponds to the binary- weighted sum of all bits in the
register. These bits are latched. Reading the event register
clears it.
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle?
This command queries the Questionable Status Enable
register. The power supply returns a binary- weighted
decimal representing the bits set in the enable register.
*CLS
This command clears all event registers and Status Byte
register.
*ESE?
This command queries the Standard Event Enable register.
The power supply returns a decimal value which
corresponds to the binary- weighted sum of all bits in the
register.
*ESR?
This command queries the Standard Event register. The
power supply returns a decimal value which corresponds to
the binary- weighted sum of all bits in the register.
*OPC
This command sets the “Operation Complete” bit (bit 0) of
the Standard Event register after the command is executed.
*OPC?
This command returns 1 to the output buffer after the
command is executed.
*PSC {0|1}
(Power- on status clear.) This command clears the Status
Byte and the Standard Event register enable masks when
power is turned on (*PSC 1). When *PSC 0 is in effect, the
Status Byte and Standard Event register enable masks are
not cleared when power is turned on.
*PSC?
This command queries the power- on status clear setting. The
returned parameter is 0 (*PSC 0) or 1 (*PSC 1).
*SRE?
This command queries the Status Byte Enable register. The
power supply returns a decimal value which corresponds to
the binary- weighted sum of all bits set in the enable
register.
*STB?
This command queries the Status Byte summary register.
The *STB? command is similar to a serial poll but it is
processed like any other instrument command. The *STB?
command returns the same result as a serial poll but the
Request Service bit (bit 6) is not cleared if a serial poll has
occurred.
*WAI
This command instructs the power supply to wait for all
pending operations to complete before executing any
additional commands over the interface. Used only in the
triggered mode.
For RS-232 operation, sending the <Ctrl-C> character will perform the
NOTE same operation as the IEEE-488 device clear message. The power supply’s
DTR (data terminal ready) handshake line is set true following a device
clear message. Refer to “DTR/DSR handshake protocol” on page 60 for
more information.
All remote interface configurations can be entered only from the front
NOTE panel. Refer to “Storing and Recalling Operating States” on page 33 to
configure for GPIB or RS-232 interface before operating the power supply
remotely.
DISPlay
[:WINDow][:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:WINDow][:STATe]?
[:WINDow]:TEXT[:DATA] <quoted string>
[:WINDow]:TEXT[:DATA]?
[:WINDow]:TEXT:CLEar
INITiate[:IMMediate]
MEASure
:CURRent[:DC]?
[:VOLTage][:DC]?
OUTPut
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATE]?
[SOURce]
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<current>|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {<numeric value>|DEFault}
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? {DEFault}
:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<current>|MIN|MAX}
:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]
:CURRent:PROTection[:LEVel] {<current>|MIN|MAX}
:CURRent:PROTection[:LEVel]? {MIN|MAX}
:CURRent:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
:CURRent:PROTection:STATe?
:CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped?
:CURRent:PROTection:CLEar
[SOURce]
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {<numeric value>|DEFault}
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? {DEFault}
:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<voltage>|MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]
:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel] {<voltage>|MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]? {MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?
:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?
:VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar
:VOLTage:RANGe {P15V|P30V|LOW|HIGH}
:VOLTage:RANGe?
STATus
:QUEStionable:CONDition?
:QUEStionable[:EVENt]?
:QUEStionable:ENABle <enable value>
:QUEStionable:ENABle?
SYSTem
:BEEPer[:IMMediate]
:ERRor?
:VERSion
TRIGger
[:SEQuence]:DELay {<seconds>|MIN|MAX}
[:SEQuence]:DELay?
[:SEQuence]:SOURce{BUS|IMM}
[:SEQuence]:SOURce?
Device-specific commands
The following commands are device- specific to your power
supply. They are not included in the 1995.0 version of the
SCPI standard. However, these commands are designed with
the SCPI standard in mind, and they follow all of the
command syntax rules defined by the standard.
APPLy {<voltage>|DEF|MIN|MAX>}[,{<current>|DEF|MIN|MAX}]
APPLy?
CALibration
:COUNt?
:CURRent[:DATA] <numeric value>
:CURRent:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:CURRent:PROTection
:DAC:ERRor
:SECure:CODE <new code>
:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},<code>
:SECure:STATe?
:STRing <quoted string>
:STRing?
:VOLTage[:DATA] <numeric value>
:VOLTage:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection
OUTPut
:RELay[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
:RELay[:STATE]?
SYSTem
:LOCal
:REMote
:RWLock
ATN Attention
IFC Interface Clear
REN Remote Enable
SRQ Service Request Enable
Addressed commands
4
Error Messages
Overview 128
Execution Error Messages 130
Self-Test Error Messages 135
Calibration Error Messages 137
This chapter lists the error messages that may appear as you
are working with the power supply.
Overview
When the front- panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or
more command syntax or hardware errors have been
detected. A record of up to 20 errors is stored in the power
supply’s error queue. The power supply beeps once each
time an error is generated.
• Errors are retrieved in first- in- first- out (FIFO) order. The
first error returned is the first error that was stored.
When you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR
annunciator turns off.
• If more than 20 errors have occurred, the last error
stored in the queue (the most recent error) is replaced
with - 350, “Queue overflow”. No additional errors are
stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no erros
have occurred when you read the error queue, the supply
responds with +0, “No error” over the remote interface or
“NO ERRORS” from the front panel.
• The error queue is cleared when power has been off or
after a *CLS (clear status) command has been executed.
The *RST (reset command) command does not clear the
error queue.
609[1] This test checks if the ADC hardware is functional. The main controller U10 establishes communication
with the ADC and checks if there are any error bits set for the ADC's status reporting.
5
Application Programs
Overview 140
Example Program for C++ (GPIB IEEE 488) 141
Example Program for Excel 5.0 (Windows 3.1 and GPIB) 144
Overview
This chapter contains two application programs over the
remote interface to help you develop programs for your own
application. Chapter 3, “Remote Interface Reference” lists the
syntax for the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable
Instruments) commands available to program the power
supply.
All program examples have been tested on a PC with
Windows 3.1 or Windows for Workgroups. Both examples are
for use with GPIB (IEEE 488). These examples require a
VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) driver with
your GPIB PC card. You should have the “visa.dll” in your
windows/system directory for the GPIB examples to work.
All program examples perform the same task. They step
through voltages and make corresponding current readings
to characterize a power diode.
Diode.c
/*Diode.C
This example program steps the E3632A DC Power Supply through 10 voltages and measures the
current response. It prints the voltage step and the current response as a table. Note that
the GPIB address is the default address from the factory for the E3632A.*/
#include <visa.h>
#include <stdio.h>
#include <string.h>
#include <time.h>
void main ()
{
ViSession defaultRM; /* resource manager id */
ViSession power_supply; /* session id to an instrument */
char reply_string [256]; /* string returned from instrument */
char GPIB_address [3]; /* GPIB address of instrument */
char Visa_address[40]; /* Complete VISA address send to card */
double voltage; /* value of voltage sent to power supply */
double current; /* value of current output of power supply */
End of program
Option Explicit
'"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
' This is the subroutine first executed. Modify this routine
' to suit your needs. To change the GPIB address, go to the module GPIB,
' Sub OpenPort(), and change the variable VISAaddr = "5" to the
' required GPIB address
'"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Sub Diode()
Range("B5:B15").ClearContents
Dim I As Integer
OpenPort
SendSCPI "*RST" 'Reset E3632A to power on condition
SendSCPI "Output ON" 'Turn on the output
For I = 5 To 15
' Convert the worksheet value to a string, add to SCPI command
SendSCPI "Volt" & Str$(Cells(I, 1))
' Request a current measurement, put response in worksheet
Cells(I, 2) = Val(SendSCPI("meas:current?"))
Next I
SendSCPI "Output OFF" 'Turn off the output
ClosePort
End Sub
Dim readbuf As String * 512 ' buffer used for returned string
Dim crlfpos As Integer ' location of CR's and LF's in readbuf
Dim cmdString As String ' command passed to instrument
Dim ReturnString As String ' string returned from instrument
Dim actual As Long ' number of characters send/returned
VIerrorHandler:
'Display the error message in the txtResponse TextBox
MsgBox " I/O Error: " & Error$()
'Close the device session
errorStatus = viClose(vi)
Exit Function
End Function
Sub OpenPort()
Dim VISAaddr As String
'****************************
'Change the GPIB address here
'****************************
VISAaddr = "5"
errorStatus = viOpenDefaultRM(videfaultRM) 'open the visa session
'Open communication to instrument
errorStatus = viOpen(videfaultRM, "GPIB0::" & VISAaddr & "::INSTR",0, 1000, vi)
If errorStatus < VI_SUCCESS Then ' on error give message
Cells(1, 1) = "Unable to Open port"
End If
End Sub
Sub ClosePort()
errorStatus = viClose(vi)
'close the session
errorStatus = viClose(videfaultRM)
End Sub
End of program
6
Tutorial
Overview of the Power Supply Operation 150
Output Characteristics 152
Connecting the Load 157
Extending the Voltage Range and Current Range 162
Remote Programming 164
Reliability 166
Figure 6-1 Diagram of a simple series power supply with tap selection
Figure 6-2 Block diagram of the power supply showing the remote
interface isolation
Output Characteristics
An ideal constant- voltage power supply would have a zero
output impedance at all frequencies. Thus, as shown in
Figure 6- 3, the voltage would remain perfectly constant in
spite of any changes in output current demanded by the
load.
When the load RL is less than RC, the output current will
dominate since the voltage will be less than the set voltage.
The power supply is said to be in constant current mode.
The load at point 2 has a relatively low resistance, the
output voltage is less than the voltage setting, the output
current is at the current setting. The supply is in constant
current mode and the voltage setting acts as a voltage limit.
Unregulated state
If the power supply should goes into a mode of operation
that is neither CV or CC, the power supply is unregulated.
In this mode the output is not predictable. The unregulated
condition may be the result of the AC line voltage below the
specifications. The unregulated condition may occur
momentarily. For example when the output is programmed
for a large voltage step, the output capacitor or a large
capacitive load will charge up at the current limit setting.
During the ramp up of the output voltage the power supply
will be in the unregulated mode. During the transition from
CV to CC as when the output is shorted, the unregulated
state may occur briefly during the transition.
Unwanted signals
An ideal power supply has a perfect DC output with no
signals across the terminals or from the terminals to earth
ground. The actual power supply has finite noise across the
output terminals, and a finite current will flow through any
impedance connected from either terminal to the earth
ground or terminals from the earth ground. The first is
called normal mode voltage noise and the second common
mode current noise.
Figure 6-6 Simplified diagram of the common mode and normal mode
sources of noise
Output isolation
The output of the power supply is isolated from chassis
ground. Any output terminal may be grounded, or an
external voltage source may be connected between any
terminal output and ground. However, output terminals must
be kept within ±60 Vdc when metal shorting bars without
insulation are used to connect the (+) output to the (+)
sense and the (–) output and the (–) sense terminals or
±240 Vdc of ground when metal shorting bars without
insulation are either replaced with insulated conductors or
they are removed from the terminals so there is no operator
access to the output conductors without insulation. A
chassis ground terminal is provided on the front panel for
convenience.
Multiple loads
When connecting multiple loads to the power supply, each
load should be connected to the output terminals using
separate connecting wires. This minimizes mutual coupling
effects between loads and takes full advantage of the low
output impedance of the power supply. Each pair of the
wires should be as short as possible and twisted or shielded
to reduce lead inductance and noise pick- up. If a shield is
used, connect one end to the power supply ground terminal
and leave the other end disconnected.
If cabling considerations require the use of distribution
terminals that are located remotely from the power supply,
connect output terminals to the distribution terminals by a
pair of twisted or shielded wires. Connect each load to the
distribution terminals separately.
AWG 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
mΩ/ft 1.00 1.59 2.53 4.02 6.39 10.2 16.1 25.7 40.8 64.9
mΩ/m 3.3 5.2 8.3 13.2 21.0 33.5 52.8 84.3 133.9 212.9
Load consideration
Capacitive loading
In most cases, the power supply will be stable for almost
any size load capacitance. Large load capacitors may cause
ringing in the power supply’s transient response. It is
possible that certain combinations of load capacitance,
equivalent series resistance, and load lead inductance will
result in instability. If this occurs, the problem may often be
solved by either increasing or decreasing the total load
capacitance.
Inductive loading
Inductive loads present no loop stability problems in
constant voltage mode. In constant current mode, inductive
loads form a parallel resonance with the power supply’s
output capacitor. Generally this will not affect the stability
of the power supply, but it may cause ringing of the current
in the load.
Pulse loading
In some applications the load current varies periodically
from a minimum to a maximum value. The constant current
circuit limits the output current. Some peak loading
exceeding the current limit can be obtained due to the
output capacitor. To stay within the specifications for the
output, the current limit should be set greater than the peak
current expected or the supply may go into CC mode or
unregulated mode for brief periods.
Series connections
Series operation of two or more power supplies can be
accomplished up to the output isolation rating of any one
supply to obtain a higher voltage than that available from a
single supply. Series connected power supplies can be
operated with one load across both power supplies or with a
separate load for each power supply. The power supply has
a reverse polarity diode connected across the output
terminals so that if operated in series with other power
supplies, damage will not occur if the load is short- circuited
or if one power supply is turned on separately from its
series partners.
When series connection is used, the output voltage is the
sum of the voltages of the individual power supplies. The
current is the current of any one power supply. Each of the
individual power supplies must be adjusted in order to
obtain the total output voltage.
Parallel connections
Two or more power supplies being capable of CV/CC
automatic crossover operation can be connected in parallel
to obtain a total output current greater than that available
from one power supply. The total output current is the sum
of the output currents of the individual power supplies. The
output of each power supply can be set separately. The
output voltage controls of one power supply should be set to
the desired output voltage; the other power supply should be
set for a slightly higher output voltage. The supply with the
higher output voltage setting will deliver its constant current
output, and drop its output voltage until it equals the output
of the other supply, and the other supply will remain in
constant voltage operation and only deliver that fraction of
its rated output current which is necessary to fulfill the
total load demand.
Remote Programming
During remote programming a constant- voltage regulated
power supply is called upon to change its output voltage
rapidly. The most important factor limiting the speed of
output voltage change is the output capacitor and load
resistor.
Reliability
Reliability of electronic semiconductor equipment depends
heavily on the temperature of the components. The lower the
temperature of the components, the better the reliability. The
Agilent E3632A incorporate circuitry to reduce the internal
power dissipation of the power supply and therefore reduce
the internal heat of the power supply. Maximum internal
power dissipation occurs at maximum current. The internal
power dissipation further increases as the output voltage is
lowered. A fan internal to the Agilent E3632A is essential to
keep internal temperatures low. To assist in cooling the
Agilent E3632A, the sides and rear of the Agilent E3632A
should be kept clear.
7
Characteristics and Specifications
Physical Characteristics 168
Environmental Characteristics 169
Electrical Specifications 169
Supplemental Characteristics 171
Physical Characteristics
Shipping 12 kg
Environmental Characteristics
Refer to “Environmental Conditions” on page VI
Electrical Specifications
Current 0.5 mA
Current 0.1 mA
Current 1 mA
Transient response time <50 μs for the output to recover to within 15 mV following a change in
the output current from full load to half load, or vice versa.
Command processing time Average time for the output voltage to begin to change after receiving
the digital data when the power supply is connected directly to the
GPIB or RS-232 is less than 100 ms
Activation time OVP • <1.5 ms when the trip voltage is equal or greater than 3 V
(Average time for the output to • <10 ms when the trip voltage is less than 3 V
start to drop after OVP or OCP
condition occurs)
OCP <10 ms
[1] Accuracy specifications after a 1-hour warm-up period with no load and calibration at 25 °C.
Supplemental Characteristics
OCP 0 A to 7.5 A
Load voltage Subtract the voltage drop in the load leads from the specified
output voltage rating.
Output terminal isolation • ±60 Vdc when connecting shorting conductors without
(maximum, from chassis ground) insulation between the (+) output and the (+) sense
terminals and between the (–) output and the (–) sense
terminals.
• ±240 Vdc when connecting insulated shorting conductors
between the (+) output and the (+) sense terminals and
between the (–) output and the (–) sense terminals.
[1] Maximum change in the output or readback per °C after a 30-minute warm-up.
[2] Following a 30-minute warm-up, with the output in the ON state according to the operating mode (CC with load or CV), and
with a change in the output over 8 hours under constant load, line, and ambient temperature.
[3] Maximum time required for output voltage to settle within 1% of its total excursion (for resistive load). Excludes command
processing time.
[4] During turn-on or turn-off of the AC power, if the output control is set to less than 1 V. If the output control is set to 1 V or
higher, there is no overshoot.
Contact us
To obtain service, warranty, or technical
assistance, contact us at the following
phone or fax numbers:
United States:
(tel) 800 829 4444 (fax) 800 829 4433
Canada:
(tel) 877 894 4414 (fax) 800 746 4866
China:
(tel) 800 810 0189 (fax) 800 820 2816
Europe:
(tel) 31 20 547 2111
Japan:
(tel) 0120 (421) 345 (fax) 0120 (421) 678
Korea:
(tel) (080) 769 0800 (fax) (080) 769 0900
Latin America:
(tel) (305) 269 7500
Taiwan:
(tel) 0800 047 866 (fax) 0800 286 331
Other Asia Pacific Countries:
(tel) (65) 6375 8100 (fax) (65) 6755 0042
Agilent Technologies
The Agilent E3632A power supply ensures safety in its output modes primarily through its overvoltage protection (OVP) and overcurrent protection (OCP) features, which are crucial in both constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) modes. In CV mode, the power supply regulates the output to maintain a constant voltage level, with the current setting serving as a limit to prevent exceeding a safe current level . Conversely, in CC mode, it maintains a constant current output, with the voltage setting acting as a limit to prevent exceeding a safe voltage level . The device is also equipped to handle transitions between modes; if a load change causes the voltage or current limit to be surpassed, the power supply can automatically switch modes to protect the device and load . Further safety is ensured by limiting the degree to which the outputs can float from the chassis ground to prevent shock hazards, and by incorporating a reverse polarity diode to protect against damage in series configurations . In cases where neither CV nor CC can be maintained, the device goes into an unregulated mode as a safeguard until normal operation can resume .
The GPIB address setting on the Agilent E3632A power supply is crucial for effective remote control operation, as each device on the GPIB interface must have a unique address ranging from 0 to 30 to ensure proper communication on the interface bus . It is initially set to 05 from the factory, stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change during power loss or interface reset . It is important to avoid setting the power supply or any device on the interface to the same address as the GPIB bus controller, typically address 21 for Agilent controllers . Proper GPIB address configuration is necessary for successful data communication and remote operation of the power supply .