Page 1 Keysight 53210A 350 MHz RF Counter User’s Guide...
Page 2 Conformity. understood and met. where in the EULA. Keysight shall be under no obligation to update, revise or otherwise modify the Software. With WARNING respect to any technical data as defined by FAR 2.101, pursuant to FAR...
Page 3: Software Updates / Licenses
Certification Keysight Technologies certifies that this product met its published specifications at time of shipment from the factory. Keysight Technologies further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute's calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other International Standards Organization members.
Page 4: Exclusive Remedies
U.S. Government Restricted Rights. Software and technical data rights granted to the federal government include only those rights customarily provided to end user customers. Keysight provides this customary commercial license in Software and technical data pursuant to FAR 12.211 (Technical Data) and 12.212 (Computer Software) and, for the Department of Defense, DFARS 252.227-7015 (Technical...
Page 5: Safety Symbols
IEC Measurement Category I. Standby Power. Unit is not completely disconnected from AC mains when Do NOT connect inputs to AC mains or CAT I power switch is in standby position. to circuits derived from AC mains. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 6: Safety Considerations
(grounding) conductor or disconnection of the protective earth terminal will cause a potential shock hazard that could result in personal injury. Fuses The 53210A is provided with an internal line fuse appropriate for the line voltages listed on the instrument. This fuse is not user accessible. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 7: Do Not Operate In An Explosive Atmosphere
Do Not Modify the Instrument Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the product to an Keysight Sales and Service Office for service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained. In Case of Damage...
Page 8: Protection Limits
Do not connect the input channels of the 53210A to AC line-voltage mains WARNING or to circuits derived from AC mains. The instrument must be used in CAT I (isolated from mains) applications only. Do not use in other IEC Measurement Category (CAT II, CAT III, or CAT IV) applications.
Page 9: Installing The Instrument
Instrument ventilation is through the sides and rear. Do not obstruct the ventilation holes in any of these locations. Battery Operation When operating the 53210A under battery power (Option 300), failure to observe the following warnings may result in damage to the instrument, electric shock, and serious personal injury:...
Page 10: Lithium Battery Recycling
Replacement procedures are provided in the 53210A/53220A/ 53230A Service Guide. Option 300 provides battery operation of the 53210A using a 12 lithium battery. Performance of this battery will degrade over time as a function of the number of battery charge/discharge cycles.
Page 11: Waste Electrical And Electronic Equipment (Weee) Directive
To return this unwanted instrument, contact your nearest Keysight Service Center, or visit http://about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/environment/takeback.shtml for more information. Sales and Technical Support To contact Keysight for sales and technical support, refer to the support links on the following Keysight websites: – www.keysight.com/find/53210A (product-specific information and support, software and documentation updates) –...
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Page 13: Table Of Contents
Front and Rear Panel Overview .......25 Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 14 How the User’s Guide is Organized ......46 53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Software Requirements .
Page 15 ........99 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Channel Characteristics .
Page 16 Enabling Gate Signals on the ‘Gate In/Out’ BNC ....144 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Math Functions ......... . . 146 Enabling the CALCulate1 Subsystem .
Page 17 ......215 Instrument Status Keysight 53210A Status System ......223 Questionable Data Register Group .
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Page 19: List Of Figures
Enabling the Math Operations....147 Figure 6-2 53210A Display with Scaling Functions Enabled..150 Figure 6-3 Counter Display with Limit Testing and Statistics Enabled.
Page 20 ..189 Figure 6-13 Reading Memory and Resetting/Clearing Graphics. Figure 7-1 Data Flow within the 53210A Counter... . 194 Figure 7-2 Folders and Files within Internal Memory and USB Storage.
Page 21: List Of Tables
Power-On LED Status and Color....32 Table 2-1 53210A Development Environments and Drivers..50 Table 2-2 Keysight IO Libraries Suite System Requirements.
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Page 23 Welcome. This user’s guide contains configuration and operating information for the Keysight 53210A 350 MHz RF Counter. The 53210A is a 2U, 1/2-module width LXI Class C instrument. The 2U, 1\2-module width references refer to the 53210A’s physical size relative to standard EIA rack cabinet dimensions.
Page 24: Figure 1-1 The 53210A Universal Frequency Counter/Timer
Preparation for Use Figure 1-1 The 53210A Universal Frequency Counter/Timer. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 25: Preparation For Use
Preparation for Use Front and Rear Panel Overview Figure 1-1 shows the front and rear panels of the Keysight 53210A 350 MHz RF Counter. Front Panel The shaded areas of the front panel represent keys that perform similar functions. These areas are briefly described below.
Page 26: Rear Panel
The rear panel USB port is used for instrument (I/O) control. Data flow is covered in Chapter Rear Panel The 53210A rear panel shown in Figure 1-1 includes product Option 201 (parallel rear panel input) and GPIB interface. The rear panel terminals are briefly described below.
Page 27: Display
Preparation for Use Display The layout of the 53210A display is shown in Figure 1-2. Status Indicators Input Settings RMT: remote (LAN, USB, GPIB) operation : measurement start edge ExtRef: external frequency reference 10% : trigger threshold : input coupling (ac or dc)
Page 28: About The Instrument
Preparation for Use About the Instrument This section lists the accessories shipped with the 53210A and contains information on its specified operating and storage environments and electrical requirements. Materials Included The following accessories are shipped standard with the 53210A counter:...
Page 29: Operating And Storage Environments
– Keysight 53210A User’s Guide (p/n 53210-90001) – Keysight 53210A/53220A/53230A Service Guide (p/n 53220-90010) 53210A Option 0B0 (delete printed manuals) is the default product documentation option. If Option 0B0 was ordered, only the Quick Start Tutorial and 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD-ROM are shipped with the instrument.
Page 30: Electrical Requirements
For additional information, refer to the "Safety Considerations" pages at the NOTE beginning of this guide. For a complete list of 53210A product specifications, refer to the data sheet included on the 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD (p/n 53220-13601), or on the Web at: www.keysight.com/find/53210A...
Page 31: Applying Power
– channel 2 test (if present) – Option 300 battery test (300 if present) If the 53210A does not turn on when the on/standby button is pressed, verify AC NOTE power is available to the instrument and that the power cord is securely connected.
Page 32: Standby Power
(disabled) Standby Power The power modes of the 53210A counter are ‘on’ ‘off’, and ‘standby’. In standby mode with the instrument connected to line voltage, standby power is supplied to maintain the temperature within the ultra high-stability oven controlled crystal oscillator (Option 010).
Page 33: Battery Operation
Under battery power, the instrument chassis may float to the potential of the measured signal supplied by the user. With Battery Option 300 installed and enabled, the 53210A counter can be operated using battery power for up to three hours.
Page 34 Recharge Time (typ): 4 hours to 100% capacity or 2 hours to 90% capacity Temperature Range: C to +55 C (operating) - battery charges below +35 ° ° ° C to +60 C (storage) ° ° Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 35: Battery Care
AC power must be applied to recover from a shut down caused by this condition. For a complete list of battery and all 53210A product specifications, refer to the NOTE...
Page 36: Using Built-In Help
Preparation for Use Using Built-In Help Instrument help is available by pressing and holding any front panel key or softkey. Pressing the Help key enables you to select additional help topics including front panel measurement examples. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 37: Utility Functions
"Resolution and Gate Time" Chapter 5 for more information when AutoDigits On is set. When Graph is selected, the data is displayed in a trend chart or histogram. Trend charts and histograms are covered in Chapter Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 38 The format (radix, decimal group separator) of numeric data that appears in the main measurement display (Figure 1-2) is set using the following keys. The format also applies to numeric readings within trend charts, histograms, limit testing, etc. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 39 Screen control is available through the keys shown below. The display screen can be turned off to increase reading throughput and its screen saver mode can be used to conserve power. Screen brightness can be adjusted for optimal viewing in different environments. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 40: User Interaction
(bitmap) format). Files may be store in internal flash memory or to an external USB device. Chapter 7 for information on selecting paths and creating file names. User Interaction The features described in this section are related to the user’s physical interaction with the instrument. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 41 Note that menu soft key labels appear only in English. Beeper Setting The counter’s Beeper is an indication of a programming error generated from the front panel or over the remote interface. Turning off the beeper disables the audio indication. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 42: Reference Settings
The date and time settings for the counter’s real-time clock are set using the commands: SYSTem:DATE <year>,<month>,<day> SYSTem:DATE? (query form) SYSTem:TIME <hour>,<minute>,<second> SYSTem:TIME? (query form) The date and time range values are: year: 2000-2099 hour: 0-23 month: 1-12 minute: 0-59 day: 1-31 second: 0-59.999 Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 43 Chapter 3 for more information. Time Base 53210A measurements are based on a reference oscillator - also referred to as an internal/external clock or time base. A valid reference oscillator signal must be present for measurements to occur. Refer to "Reference Oscillator Configuration"...
Page 44 Refer to "Threshold Level and Sensitivity" Chapter 4 for additional information on using auto-level. Keysight 53100 Series Counter Emulation Mode The 53210A’s emulation mode enables the Keysight 53181A SCPI command set to be used with the counter. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 45 Usage of this older SCPI command set is discouraged for new use, but is available for customers who require it. Securing the Instrument The 53210A counter can be secured to the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) standard as shown below. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 46: How The User's Guide Is Organized
(LAN, USB, GPIB) interface. As such, most topics include a front panel key sequence followed by the corresponding SCPI commands. For example: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The input impedance of the 53210A counter can be set to either 50 or 1 M Ω Ω...
Page 47: Figure 1-3 53210A User's Guide Organization
Preparation for Use Signal Conditioning Triggering / Gating Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Measurements Math and Graphs Chapter 3 Chapter 6 Status Conditions Formats / Data Flow Chapter 8 Chapter 7 Figure 1-3 53210A User’s Guide Organization. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
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Page 49 Firmware and Driver Updates This chapter contains information on IO libraries, drivers, and interfaces used to program the 53210A from selected development environments. The chapter includes an introduction to using the counter’s web-enabled interface and provides information on updating the instrument firmware.
Page 50: 53210A Software Installation And Interface Configuration
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Software Requirements The environments available to program the 53210A are dependent upon the IO libraries and drivers installed. The IO software included with the 53210A is contained on the following CD: – Keysight Automation-Ready CD: Keysight IO Libraries Suite The IVI-C and IVI-COM drivers for the instrument can be found on the web at: www.keysight.com/find/53210A...
Page 51: Using The Counter Web-Enabled Interface
This section describes the Web pages and windows primarily used to program NOTE the 53210A. Refer to “Help with this Page” associated with each Web page for additional information on functions or pages not covered in this manual. Connecting the Counter and Viewing its Home Page Connect the counter d irectly to the PC or to the PC through a network switch using a standard LAN cable.
Page 52: Figure 2-1 The 53210A Web-Enabled Interface 'Welcome Page
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Enter the IP address in the browser’s address window. With “Advanced information ...” selected, the counter’s Web home page should appear as shown Figure 2-1. Browser Configuration In some network configurations a proxy server may prevent access to the instrument (i.e.
Page 53: Web Interface Overview
Web-enabled instrument. Although no additional libraries or drivers are required to use the Web interface, NOTE the interface is also accessible from Keysight Connection Expert (KCE). See “Opening the Web Interface from Keysight Connection Expert” for more information.
Page 54: Figure 2-2 The Web Ui Scpi Command Interface
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Web interface pages other than the ‘Welcome Page’ may be password protected. NOTE When shipped from the factory no password is set; however, an ‘Enter Password’ dialog box may appear. Click on the dialog box to continue.
Page 55 53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Changing LAN Settings and Using Password Protection The Network Configuration Page icon provides access to the counter’s LAN settings, and enables you to set a password to prevent unauthorized access to the Web instrument interface. Select Mod ify Configuration to change and save settings.
Page 56: Installing The Keysight Io Libraries
53210A in Microsoft® development environments (Table 2-1). The VISA and VISA-COM libraries allow you to send commands from the 53210A SCPI command set to the instrument. The IO libraries also include Keysight Connection Expert described and used later in this chapter.
Page 57 NOTE Architecture) is currently installed on your computer, continue installation of the Keysight IO Libraries by installing Keysight VISA in side-by-side mode. More information on side-by-side operation can be found in IO Libraries Suite Help (available after installation is complete) under “Using Keysight’s and Other Vendors’...
Page 58: Installing Instrument Drivers
IVI drivers (e.g. IVI-COM, IVI-C)can be installed. Adding Instruments to the PC Interface During installation of the Keysight IO Libraries, the IO interfaces (LAN, USB, GPIB) detected on the PC are configured. This section contains information for programmatically adding the 53210A to those interfaces using the Keysight IO Libraries ‘Connection Expert’...
Page 59: Configuring The Lan Interface
With the counter connected to the LAN interface, the IP address can be read from the front panel as follows. Once the IP address is known, start the Connection Expert utility by clicking the ‘Keysight IO Control’ icon and selecting “Keysight Connection Expert” from the pop up menu as shown in Figure 2-3.
Page 60: Figure 2-3 Starting Keysight Connection Expert
Figure 2-3 Starting Keysight Connection Expert. Locating the Instruments Keysight Connection Expert opens with a welcome screen and window similar to that shown in Figure 2-4. The computer interfaces configured during installation are displayed in the left column (Explorer pane), the properties of the configured interface are displayed in the right column (Properties pane).
Page 61: Figure 2-4 Keysight Connection Expert Interface Window
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Figure 2-4 Keysight Connection Expert Interface Window. Using the Sockets Protocol For higher performance, instruments added to the LAN configuration can also use the Sockets protocol. To use this connection, select LAN Instrument from the...
Page 62: Figure 2-5 Adding A Sockets Connection
If there is a DHCP server on the network, the server will assign the address to the instrument. If there is not a DHCP server on the network, the 53210A will automatically determine the address to use. The address will be in the range 169.254.1.1 to 169.254.255.255.
Page 63 53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Host Names The 53210A has a default host name. The format of the host name is: A-53210A-nnnnn where ‘ ’ are the last five digits of the instrument’s serial number. nnnnn The instrument host name is reported by Connection Expert for network servers that support Dynamic Domain Name Service (DNS).
Page 64: Configuring The Usb Interface
The 53210A is a high-speed USB 2.0 device. Connection to the instrument is through the Type B USB connector located on the instrument rear panel. The first time the 53210A is connected to the PC via the USB cable, a “hardware NOTE wizard”...
Page 65 53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration The USB Address String When programming the 53210A over USB, the instrument’s USB address is included in the address string as follows: USB0::2391::1287::0123456789::0::INSTR To simplify addressing during programming, a VISA alias can be assigned and used in place of the complete address.
Page 66: Figure 2-6 Setting A Visa Alias For The Usb Address String
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Figure 2-6 Setting a VISA Alias for the USB Address String. Disabling the USB Interface The USB interface can be disabled from the front panel by selecting I/O Config, followed by USB Settings, and then USB Off. When disabling or enabling the USB interface, you must cycle power for the change to take affect.
Page 67: Configuring The Gpib Interface
NOTE on your computer. Programming access to the 53210A is also available through the GPIB interface. GPIB cables can be connected to the PC in a “star” (all cables connect directly to the computer) or “linear” (instrument to instrument) configuration.
Page 68: Figure 2-7 Selecting The Gpib Address
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Figure 2-7 Selecting the GPIB Address. The counter’s GPIB address can be read from the front panel as shown below. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 69 53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration The GPIB Address String When programming the counter over GPIB, the instrument’s GPIB address is included in the address string as shown below: GPIB0::3::INSTR Changing the GPIB Address To change the GPIB address, select GPIB Address and using the rotary knob or Shifted numeric keys, set the desired address.
Page 70: Using Interactive Io
(Table 2-1) of sending commands to the 53210A. Interactive IO is accessible from any of the PC’s IO interfaces, and allows you to send any command in the 53210A SCPI command set to the instrument. You can also choose from a menu of IEEE-488 Common commands (e.g.
Page 71 If the Interactive IO window is used to send the self-test (*TST?) command to the NOTE 53210A, the “timeout” period may have to be increased to allow the results to be returned. This is done using the ‘Options’ tab on the Interactive IO window. The 53210A self-test takes approximately seven seconds to complete.
Page 72: Firmware And Driver Updates
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Firmware and Driver Updates Firmware and driver updates (when available) for the 53210A are available via the Web. This section contains information for locating and downloading the updates to your computer, and then installing the updates in the instrument.
Page 73: Scpi Language Emulation Mode
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration SCPI Language Emulation Mode If the 53210A is sometimes used in 53181A SCPI language (emulation) mode, the instrument must be returned to its original (53210A) mode before the firmware can be updated. Downloading and Installing the Update Utility 53210A firmware updates are installed in the instrument using the Keysight firmware update utility.
Page 74: Downloading The Firmware Update
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Downloading the Firmware Update Return to the Web page and under ‘Documents & Downloads’ select: 532x0A Firmware Update Revision <revision number> When prompted, select ‘Run’ to download (save) the file to your PC. Note the d irectory location as you will need to specify the path to the firmware file when you run the update utility.
Page 75: Figure 2-9 Selecting The Update File Path
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Figure 2-9 Selecting the Update File Path. 3 Enter the counter’s IP address or host name (Figure 2-10). Select ‘Update’ to start the update process. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 76: Figure 2-10 Specifying The Address Or Host Name
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Figure 2-10 Specifying the Address or Host Name. The firmware update takes a few moments to complete. The 53210A will reboot once the update is complete. Following a firmware update, Keysight Connection Expert (if running) may report NOTE that the 53210A configuration has changed.
Page 77: Downloading Ivi-Com Driver Updates
53210A Software Installation and Interface Configuration Downloading IVI-COM Driver Updates IVI-COM and LabVIEW drivers for the 53210A (when available) are provided on the Web at: www.keysight.com/find/53210A Once this page is displayed, select the ‘Technical Support’ tab and then select ‘Drivers and Software’. The drivers and associated ‘readme’ files are located within this list.
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Page 79 Reference Oscillator Configuration Setting the Measurement Time Out SCPI Syntax Conventions The MEASure and CONFigure Commands Frequency Measurements Frequency Ratio Measurements Period Measurements This chapter contains general programming information and examples of the measurements that can be made with the 53210A counter.
Page 80: 53210A Measurements
53210A Measurements Counter Measurement Summary The Keysight 53210A counter measurements are summarized in Table 3-1. The table includes the front panel keys under which specific measurements are selected via soft-keys. Also provided are the equivalent SCPI commands and channel restrictions.
Page 81: Reference Oscillator Configuration
53210A Measurements Reference Oscillator Configuration 53210A measurements are based on a reference oscillator - also referred to as an internal/external clock or time base. A valid reference oscillator signal must be present for measurements to occur. The following information applies to the counter’s standard temperature compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) and Option 010 Ultra High-Stability oven-controlled crystal oscillator (OCXO) references.
Page 82 Specifying the External Reference Frequency When the reference oscillator source is as set by either EXTernal , the lock SENSe:ROSCillator:SOURce SENSe:ROSCillator:SOURce:AUTO frequency of the external signal (to which the internal oscillator is tuned) must be indicated using the command: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 83 SENS:ROSC:SOUR EXT // set source, also disables // automatic source selection SENS:ROSC:EXT:CHEC ONCE // check for valid signal SYST:ERR? // read the error queue The error queue can be read from the front panel as follows: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 84: Standby Power To The Reference Oscillator (Option 010)
(bit 10) indicates an invalid frequency (time base) error. Reading +1024 the register clears all bits in the register. See Chapter 8 for information on the counter’s status system. Standby Power to the Reference Oscillator (Option 010) Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 85 ) when the counter is shipped from the factory or following the command. The current setting is stored SYSTem:SECure:IMMediate in non-volatile memory and is not changed after a reset ( ) or instrument *RST preset ( or Preset key). SYSTem:PREset Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 86: Setting The Measurement Time Out
When shipped from the factory the measurement time out is set to 1 second. Specifying a time of or sending the 9.9E+37 SYSTem:SECurity:IMMediate command also disables the time out. When the time out is d isabled, the instrument will wait indefinitely for the measurement to complete. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 87: Scpi Syntax Conventions
Separating Commands and Parameters and Linking SCPI Commands A space must separate the last keyword and the first parameter. Commas (,) separate multiple parameters. The ‘@’ symbol must precede each counter channel number and parentheses must enclose each channel: MEAS:FREQ:RAT? 5E6,(@2),(@1) Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 88 In a command string containing both IEEE 488.2 common commands (e.g. *RST ) and SCPI instrument commands, the common commands are *WAI *OPC? separated from the SCPI commands by a semicolon (;). An example is shown in the following string: CALC:STAT ON;AVER:STAT ON;:INIT;*WAI;:CALC:AVER:AVER? Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 89 53210A Measurements Information on the SCPI programming conventions is also included in the NOTE ‘Programmer’s Reference’ section of the Keysight 53210A/53220A/ 53230A Product Reference CD. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 90: The Measure And Configure Commands
) that allow you to change a parameter value from that set, or TRIGger SENSe defaulted to, using CONFigure MEASure Executing commands from the subsystems is equivalent CONFigure MEASure to setting parameters individually using the commands/subsystems shown in Table 3-2. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 91: Table 1-1 Table
Unchanged SYSTem:TIMeout SENSe:ROSCillator:SOURce Unchanged from previous settings. SENSe:ROSCillator:SOURce:AUTO Reference oscillator SENSe:ROSCillator:EXTernal:FREQu ency Reading Format Unchanged from previous settings. FORMat Subsystem Data Storage Unchanged from previous settings. DATA Subsystem Instrument Status Unchanged from previous settings. STATus Subsystem Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 92: Using Measure
‘1’, and the sample count to ‘1’. The gate time is set to 0.1 seconds. Using and the appropriate low-level commands, the configuration can CONFigure be changed before the measurement is initiated (the abbreviated form of the SCPI commands are shown): Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 93 CONF? returns (including quotes): "FREQ +1.00000000000000E+006,+1.00000000000000E-004,(@2)" which includes the function, expected value, (calculated) resolution, and channel. If a channel number is not specified in the command, no CONFigure MEASure channel is included in the return string. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 94: Frequency Measurements
Commands may be included even though they specify default values - but which should be considered when modifying the examples for actual use. Refer to the “Programmer’s Reference” on the Keysight 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD for additional information. Frequency...
Page 95 *RST // reset to start from known state CONF:FREQ 20E6, 0.1, (@1) SAMP:COUN 10 // take 10 readings READ? Notes 1 See Chapter 5 for information on triggering and number of readings per trigger (sample count). Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 96: Frequency Ratio Measurements
3-2). The signals can be different wave shapes and applied to any 2-channel combination on the counter. numerator channel denominator channel Figure 3-2 Ratio of Two Input Signal Measurements. The commands used to make frequency ratio measurements are: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 97 // using CONFigure - ratio measurement expecting a 1:1 // ratio, set 9 digits of ratio resolution *RST // reset to start from known state CONF:FREQ:RAT 1, 1.0E-9, (@1),(@2) INP:LEV 1.5= // set a 1.5V threshold level (ch. 1) READ? Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 98 See "Frequency Measurements" Chapter 5 information on the relationship between gate time and reading resolution. 2 See Chapter 4 for additional information on counter threshold levels and on configuring the input signal path. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 99: Period Measurements
53210A Measurements Period Measurements A standard period measurement is shown in Figure 3-3. period Figure 3-3 Standard Period Measurement. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 100 READ? Notes 1 See Chapter 5 for information on triggering and number of readings per trigger (sample count). 2 See Chapter 4 for additional information on counter threshold levels and on configuring the input signal path. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 101 53210A Input Signal Conditioning 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Channel Characteristics Signal Conditioning Path Measuring Input Signal Levels and Signal Strength This chapter contains information on configuring the input channels relative to the characteristics of the input signal expected. Configuration includes the channel’s impedance, range/probe factor, coupling, filtering, and threshold level/sensitivity settings.
Page 102: 53210A Input Signal Conditioning
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Channel Characteristics There is one, plus an optional second input channel on the 53210A counter. Product Option 201 adds parallel (additional) rear panel access to channel 1. Product Options 106 and 115 add a 6 GHz or 15 GHz second channel. Option 202 places the second channel (Option 106 / 115) on the front panel and Option 203 places Option 106 /115 on the rear panel.
Page 103: Signal Conditioning Path
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Signal Conditioning Path Figure 4-1 represents the counter’s signal conditioning path. DC Coupling Auto Input Protection Buffer AC Coupling Input Selectable INPut[1]:COUPling 100 kHz INPut[1]:IMPedance Low-Pass Filter Range INPut[1]:PROTection? INPut[1]:PROTection:CLEar Selection INPut[1]:FILTer INPut[1]:RANGe INPut[1]:PROBe Threshold Level...
Page 104 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Table 4-1 Input Channel Reset/Preset Settings Summary. Parameter Setting Impedance 1 MW Range (1:1 probe) Range (10:1) probe Probe factor Coupling Low pass filter Auto-level Enabled Level (absolute) 0.0V Level (relative) Noise Rejection Disabled Slope Positive...
Page 105: Input Impedance
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Input Impedance The input impedance of the 53210A counter can be set to either 50 or 1 M Ω Ω using the command: INPut[1]:IMPedance {<impedance>|MINimum|MAXimum| DEFault} INPut[1]:IMPedance? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}] (query form) The 50 impedances allow for impedance matching (termination) and Ω...
Page 106 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Input Protection The maximum input voltage (including any DC offset) allowed with 50 input Ω impedance is ± 5.125 Vp. If the input voltage exceeds ± 10.0 Vp, the input protection relay opens - changing the input impedance to 1 M .
Page 107: Input Range
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Input Range The signal operating ranges (input ranges) of the 53210A counter are ± 5.0V, ± 50V,and ± 500V and are dependent on the probe factor. The range is set using the command: INPut[1]:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} INPut[1]:RANGe? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}]...
Page 108 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Setting the Probe Factor For better access to test points on the device under test (DUT), Keysight recommends its N2870A, N2873A, and N2874A Passive Probes for use with the 53220A/ 53230A counter. The 35 MHz (BW) N2870A 1:1 probe and the 500 MHz N2873A and 1.5 GHz N2874A 10:1 probes are popular accessories commonly...
Page 109: Input Coupling
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Input Coupling The input to the 53210A counter is either DC (direct) coupled or AC (capacitive) coupled, and is set using the command: INPut[1]:COUPling {AC|DC} INPut[1]:COUPling? (query form) coupling removes the signal’s DC content and centers the signal at 0V. The...
Page 110: Bandwidth Limiting (Low-Pass) Filter
53210A Input Signal Conditioning input signal with DC offset trigger point programmed trigger level reset point Hysteresis window DC coupling AC coupling Figure 4-2 Using AC Coupling to Reach Trigger Points. Settling Time Between DC and AC Coupling There is an inherent settling time when changing from DC to AC coupling. As a measure of this time, a signal with a 5V DC component (DC coupled) will typically center around 0V (AC coupled) in one second.
Page 111: Figure 4-3 Measureable Frequency Range With Bandwidth Filter Enabled
53210A Input Signal Conditioning For measurement applications of 100 kHz or less, a 100 kHz low-pass filter can be enabled within the signal path to eliminate noise introduced by higher-frequency components of the input signal. The bandwidth filter is switched into the signal path using the command:...
Page 112: Threshold Level And Sensitivity
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Threshold Level and Sensitivity The threshold level is the trigger (input) level at which the counter begins the signal count (i.e. measurement). This level is the center of the hysteresis band - the band which represents counter sensitivity. For a count to occur, the signal must cross the upper and lower limits of the band in opposite directions (polarities).
Page 113 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Specifying an Absolute Threshold Level The input threshold level can be specified as an absolute value. An absolute level is set with the command: INPut[1]:LEVel[:ABSolute] {<volts>|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} INPut[1]:LEVel[:ABSolute]? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}] (query form) Absolute threshold levels for the input ranges are: –...
Page 114 53210A Input Signal Conditioning Using Auto-Level Automatic setting of the input threshold level is based on the positive and negative peaks of the input signal. Auto-level is enabled with the command: INPut[1]:LEVel:AUTO {OFF|ON|ONCE} INPut[1]:LEVel:AUTO? (query form) disables auto-leveling; enables auto-leveling. Auto-level...
Page 115 53210A Input Signal Conditioning sets the relative threshold for all measurements. LEVel set the threshold to 50% and enable auto-leveling. A CONFigure MEASure reset ( ) or front panel preset (Preset) also sets the threshold to 50% and *RST enables auto-leveling.
Page 116: Figure 4-5 Input Coupling And Relative Threshold Levels
53210A Input Signal Conditioning When the signal includes a DC offset, the absolute value of a relative threshold is a function of the input coupling (AC or DC). 100% (Vmax:) 100% (Vmax:) (Vmin:) (Vmin:) DC coupling AC coupling Figure 4-5 Input Coupling and Relative Threshold Levels.
Page 117 53210A Input Signal Conditioning System Auto-Level Range Auto-leveling is available for two input frequency ranges: 50 Hz to < 10 kHz and frequencies > 10 kHz. The auto-level period is shorter for frequencies > 10 kHz when an (auto-level) frequency range is set from the front panel or specified by the command: SYSTem:ALEVel:FREQuency {<frequency>|MINimum|MAXimum| DEFault}...
Page 118: Noise Rejection (Hysteresis)
53210A Input Signal Conditioning setting of 10 kHz decreases the auto-level period for all frequencies frequency > 10 kHz. A setting of 50 Hz provides auto-leveling for frequencies frequency down to 50 Hz. The selected should be based on the lowest expected frequency frequency in the measurement.
Page 119: Threshold Slope
53210A Input Signal Conditioning enables noise rejection, thus increasing hysteresis and decreasing sensitivity by 50%. This setting should be used when noise is present in the signal environment. However, if the threshold level is close to a peak amplitude (positive or negative), a count will not occur if the signal does not cross both hysteresis levels due to the increased hysteresis band.
Page 120 53210A Input Signal Conditioning The slope (edge) of the input signal on which the threshold level occurs is specified with the command: INPut[1]:SLOPe {POSitive|NEGative} INPut[1]:SLOPe? (query form) - the trigger point occurs on the positive (rising) edge. The reset point...
Page 121: Measuring Input Signal Levels And Signal Strength
53210A Input Signal Conditioning Measuring Input Signal Levels and Signal Strength Minimum, maximum, and peak-to-peak levels of the input signal are indicated on the bottom of the counter’s main measurement display area and an example is included in Figure 4-4. These characteristics of the peak-to-peak signal can also...
Page 122 53210A Input Signal Conditioning THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 123: Triggering And Gating
Settings Summary Trigger and Gate Cycle Measurement Gate 53210A counter measurements are made by triggering the instrument and gating the input signal to select the portion or duration during which the input signal is measured. This chapter covers the counter’s trigger and gate cycles as they relate to counter measurements.
Page 124: Settings Summary
Frequency gate polarity Negative Trigger and Gate Time Line Triggering and gating are part of every counter measurement. The relationship of these actions relative to the measurement are shown in the time line of Figure 5-1. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 125: Figure 5-1 Triggering And Gating Time Line
Trigger Delay Stop Holdoff Start Gate Delay (Time) (Time, Events) (Time, Events) Trigger Input Gate Gate INIT:IMMediate Final Event Event Start Stop Gate sequence: repeated for each reading per trigger Figure 5-1 Triggering and Gating Time Line. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 126: Trigger And Gate Cycle
The SCPI commands and parameters listed throughout this chapter are provided NOTE as a guide to how the counter is operated programmatically. The commands are described in detail in the ‘Programmer’s Reference’ section of the Keysight 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 127: Figure 5-2 Trigger And Gate Cycle - Triggering
INITiate:IMMediate READ? Wait-for-trigger state MEASure? triggers received TRIGger:COUNt? trigger received Triggered state # readings SAMPle:COUNt? (to gate cycle) (repeated for each reading in sample count) (from gate cycle) Figure 5-2 Trigger and Gate Cycle - Triggering. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 128: System Trigger
(frequency and period measurements) Figure 5-3 Trigger and Gate Cycle - Gating. System Trigger The counter operates in one of three states depending on the status of the system trigger: idle, wait for trigger, and triggered. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 129 The system trigger is configured using the commands within the TRIGger subsystems. Figure 5-2 show the sequence in which the commands are SAMPle commonly used. The system trigger source which starts the trigger/gate cycle is set with the command: TRIGger:SOURce {IMMediate|EXTernal|BUS} TRIGger:SOURce? (query form) Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 130 - trigger slope selects the signal’s rising edge, and trigger slope POSitive selects the signal’s falling edge. The signal is applied to the NEGative ‘Trig In’ BNC. By default, sets the trigger slope to CONFigure NEGative. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 131 MEASure 0.0s. Trigger Delay Example //configure for frequency, set system trigger parameters CONF:FREQ 5E6,0.1,(@2) TRIG:SOUR EXT // trigger source external TRIG:SLOP POS // external trigger slope - positive TRIG:DEL 1 // 1s delay after trigger received Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 132 // accept 2 system triggers Sample Count The trigger count multiplied by the sample count ( TRIG:COUN SAMP:COUN determines the number of readings taken before the counter returns to the idle state. The sample count is set with the command: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 133: Wait-For-Trigger And Triggered States
Wait-For-Trigger and Triggered States In order for the counter to accept triggers which start the trigger and gate cycle, the counter must be initiated. Initiating the counter places the instrument in the wait-for-trigger state (Figure 5-3). Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 134: Figure 5-4 The Counter 'Wait-For-Trigger' State
– places the counter in the wait-for-trigger state. In this state, trigger signals are recognized and accepted. Readings taken after the counter is initiated by are displayed and stored in the counter’s reading INITiate[:IMMediate] memory (see Chapter 7, "Formats and Data Flow" for more information). Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 135 The counter then returns to the wait-for-trigger state until the next system trigger is received. The counter returns to the idle state once the product of the trigger count x sample count is reached. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 136: Measurement Gate
5-4), programmatically it should occur after all other gate parameters have been set. This prevents potential “settings conflict” errors between the subsystem commands, and is illustrated in the examples and SENSe program segments that use these commands. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 137: Figure 5-5 Gate Source Sequence
External gate signals are applied to the counter’s rear panel ‘Gate In/Out’ BNC or to the channel 1 or channel 2 input. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 138: Frequency Measurements
Reading resolution (in digits) is a function of the gate time. Table 5-2 shows the digits of resolution achieved with the 53210A for a given gate time. The table also includes formulas for estimating digits as a function of gate time or expected values, and gate times as a function of digits.
Page 139: Table 2-1 Table
Specifying these parameters or using default values with these commands simplifies counter programming. However, setting/changing the gate time separate from the command allows you to change only the CONFigure MEASure gate time while preserving other configuration settings. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 140: Table 3-1 Table
As another example, assume a measurement requiring 7-digit resolution of a 5 ns (200 MHz) signal. Recalling that (expected value) - (resolution) is approximately equal to digits of resolution, the measurement can be configured MEAS:PER? 5E-9, 5E-16, (@1) // per meas of 200 MHz signal Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 141 1 INPut[1] input (front or rear panel - Opt. 201). Note that the source is only INPut[1] available when channel 2 is installed (Option 106 or 115) and is the measurement channel. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 142 ) or counter preset ( ), the negative edge is selected. *RST SYSTem:PRESet To set the polarity of the external gate signal: // select the gate polarity and source CONF:PER SENS:FREQ:GATE:POL POS // set polarity SENS:FREQ:GATE:SOUR EXT // set source Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 143 To set the polarity and level for an external gate source: // select the gate polarity, source, and threshold level CONF:FREQ SENS:FREQ:GATE:POL POS // set polarity SENS:FREQ:GATE:SOUR INP // set source - channel 1 INP:LEV 4 // set threshold - 4V Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 144: Enabling Gate Signals On The 'Gate In/Out' Bnc
“Gate Out” - the BNC is an external (“Gate In”) source. Therefore, must be set when the gate source is OUTPut:STATe OFF EXTernal selects a rising (positive going) signal; selects a falling (negative NORMal INVerted going) signal. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 145: 53210A Math, Graphing, And Data Logging
Data Logging Graphics Functions and Reading Memory The Keysight 53210A counter features math operations that allow you to scale readings, test limits, and statistically analyze data. Its graphics functions compute and display histograms and trend charts of real time measurement data.
Page 146: Math Functions
The SCPI commands and parameters listed throughout this chapter are provided NOTE as a guide to how the counter is operated programmatically. The commands are described in detail in the ‘Programmer’s Reference’ section of the Keysight 53210A/53220A/ 53230A Product Reference CD. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 147: Enabling The Calculate1 Subsystem
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate1:AVERage:STATe ON CALCulate1:AVERage (statistics) CALCulate1:SCALe: STATe ON CALCulate1:LIMit:STATe ON CALCulate1:SMOothing:STATe ON INITiate:IMMediate CALCulate1:SMOothing CALCulate1:SCALe CALCulate1:LIMit reading memory (moving average) (scaling and offset) (limit checking) CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:STATe ON measurement data CALCulate1:STATe ON CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram (histograms) READ? output buffer readings initiated by INITiate:IMMediate are sent to reading memory.
Page 148: Smoothing Data
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging A reset ( ), instrument preset ( ), or changing the measurement *RST SYSTem:PRESet function disables the subsystem. CALCulate1 Smoothing Data Measurements can be “smoothed” and scaled prior to performing math operations on the incoming data.
Page 149: Scaling Functions
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging The number of readings to average is specified as: - 100 readings: with + 100 ppm change required to reset filter SLOW - 50 readings: with + 300 ppm change required to reset filter...
Page 150: Figure 6-2 53210A Display With Scaling Functions Enabled
CALCulate1:SCALe:UNIT CALCulate1:STATe ON CALCulate1:SCALe:STATe ON CALCulate1:SCALe:FUNCtion Figure 6-2 53210A Display with Scaling Functions Enabled. Enabling the Scale Functions All 53210A scaling functions are enabled with the command: CALCulate[1]:SCALe[:STATe] {OFF|ON} CALCulate[1]:SCALe[:STATe]? (query form) enables scaling. disables scaling. Following a reset ( ) or instrument preset ( ), scaling is disabled.
Page 151 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Using the Scale Functions The counter scaling functions include null, percent change (PCT), part per million change (PPM), part per billion change (PPB), and scale (Mx-B). The function is selected with the command: CALCulate[1]:SCALe:FUNCtion {NULL|PCT|PPM|PPB|SCALe}...
Page 152 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Scaling function results must be in the range of , or -1.0E+24 to -1.0E-24 . Results outside these limits will be replaced with +1.0E-24 to 1.0E+24 -9.9E+37 (negative infinity), , or (positive infinity). +9.9E+37...
Page 153 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Following a reset ( ) or instrument preset ( ), a reference value *RST SYSTem:PRESet of 0.0 is set and automatic reference is enabled. From the front panel, pressing Get New Reference takes a reference measurement on the first trigger received after the key is pressed.
Page 154 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging The offset value (B) is set with the command: CALCulate[1]:SCALe:OFFSet {<offset>|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} CALCulate[1]:SCALe:OFFSet? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}] (query form) values can range from offset -1.0E+15 to -1.0E-15, 0.0, +1.0E-15 to +1.0E+15 The default and is the value set following a reset (...
Page 155 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Assigning Reading Units For ease in identifying readings from the front panel, a user-defined “units string” can be assigned to any scale function. The user string replaces the instrument-assigned measurement units (Hz, pct, ppm, ...). The unit prefix (μ, m, k, M) remains.
Page 156 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging are one to four characters. Double quotes enclosing the string are included units in the command. The assigned units appear in the counter d isplay only. Following a reset ( ) or instrument preset (...
Page 157: Statistics
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Statistics Statistical calculations are performed continually on readings as they are taken, or until the total reading count ( ) is reached. The TRIGger:COUNt SAMPle:COUNt commands used to generate statistical data are covered in this section.
Page 158 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate[1]:AVERage:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate[1]:AVERage[:STATe]? (query form) - enables statistical calculations on the readings as they occur. Statistical data includes: mean, standard deviation, maximum value, minimum value, and average peak-to-peak value. - disables statistics computation. Following a reset (...
Page 159 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Example: Enabling and Computing Statistics The following example returns the mean, standard deviation, minimum value, and maximum value for a set of 500 readings. The trigger count setting, although it defaults to ‘1’, is shown for completeness. A ‘wait’ statement is included to delay the analysis until all readings are complete.
Page 160 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate[1]:AVERage:MINimum? – returns the minimum value of all readings in the current reading count. CALCulate[1]:AVERage:MAXimum? – returns the maximum value of all readings in the current reading count. CALCulate[1]:AVERage:PTPeak? – returns the average peak-to-peak value (average maximum value - average minimum value) of all readings in the reading count.
Page 161: Limit Checking
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Clearing/Resetting Statistics The current set of reading statistics is clear by any of the following: – enabling statistical functions - CALCulate[1]:AVERage[:STATe] ON – a new measurement cycle - INITiate:IMMediate READ? MEASure? – sending a new SCPI command or changing a current SCPI parameter –...
Page 162: Figure 6-4 53210A Limit Checking
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate1:STATe ON CALCulate1:LIMit:STATe ON CALCulate1:LIMit:CLEar CALCulate1:LIMit:UPPer CALCulate1:LIMit:LOWer Figure 6-4 53210A Limit Checking. Enabling Limit Checking Limit checking is enabled with the command: CALCulate[1]:LIMit[:STATe] {OFF|ON} CALCulate[1]:LIMit[:STATe]? (query form) - enables limit checking. disables (bypasses) limit checking. Enabling limit checking enables both lower and upper limit boundaries.
Page 163 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Setting Lower and Upper Limits Lower and upper limits are set using the commands: CALCulate[1]:LIMit:LOWer[:DATA] {<value>}|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} CALCulate[1]:LIMit:LOWer[:DATA]? |MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} (query form) CALCulate[1]:LIMit:UPPer[:DATA] {<value>}|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} CALCulate[1]:LIMit:UPPer[:DATA]? |MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} (query form) The lower limit and upper limit ranges are: value -1.0E+15 to -1.0E-15,...
Page 164 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Example: Limit Checking The following is an example of enabling and using limit checking. CONF:FREQ (@1) // configure measurement SAMP:COUN 500 // check limit on 500 rdgs CALC:STAT ON // enable math operations CALC:LIM:STAT ON // enable limit checking CALC:LIM:LOW 99.9E3;UPP 100.1E3...
Page 165: Histograms
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Histograms The distribution for a given set of counter measurements (except continuous totalize and time stamp measurements) can be represented graphically using the 53210A histogram feature. The following example (Figure 6-5) represents the basic format of a counter histogram.
Page 166: Viewing Histograms
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Viewing Histograms At power-on or when the front panel Preset key is pressed, numeric data is displayed. Remotely, histograms can be displayed by changing the display mode using the command: DISPlay[:WINDow]:MODE {NUMeric|HISTogram|TCHart} DISPlay[:WINDow]:MODE? (query form) The Graph key followed by the Histogram softkey enables and automatically starts histograms from the front panel.
Page 167: Histogram Configuration
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Function X Max: maximum reading across all bins Channel X Min: minimum reading across all bins Histogram reading count Bin Size: (X Max – X Min)/number of bins Corresponds to bin with largest number of entries and expressed as:...
Page 168: Figure 6-7 15-Bin (Point) Histogram
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:STATe ON CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:COUNt? CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:CLEar CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:POINts CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:AUTO CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:AUTO:COUNt CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:LOWer CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:UPPer Figure 6-7 15-Bin (Point) Histogram. Histogram computation is enabled with the command: CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram[:STATe] {OFF|ON} CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram[:STATe]? (query form) - enables histogram computation. - disables histogram computation. Following a reset (...
Page 169 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging The number of readings represented by a histogram (Figure 6-7) can be queried with the command: CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:COUNt? Setting Up the Histogram The counter builds a histogram based on number of bins (points), a lower range, and an upper range.
Page 170 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Displaying the Outer Bins Two additional bins independent of the number specified are al ways included with the histogram. The bins contain readings less than the lower range value and readings greater than the upper range value...
Page 171 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:UPPer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:UPPer? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}] (query form) - directly specifies the histogram lower and upper range values. The value value ranges are: -1.E+15 to -1.0E-15, 0.0, 1.0E-15 to 1.0E+15 The default lower and upper ranges and the ranges set following a reset (...
Page 172 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging – When ‘Statistics’ (under the Math key) are enabled, the minimum and maximum values from the reading statistics are used. – If readings are in progress and ‘Statistics’ are off, the instrument will select a minimum and a maximum value from (up to) the last 10,000 readings taken.
Page 173 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:AUTO:COUNt {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault} CALCulate2:TRANsform:HISTogram:RANGe:AUTO:COUNt? [{MINimum|MAXimum|DEFault}] (query form) - specifies the first ‘n’ number of readings from which lower and upper value range values are obtained. readings can be specified. 1,000 The default number and the number set following a reset (...
Page 174 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Resetting the Histogram The data from which the current histogram is created is cleared by any of the following: – pressing the Reset Histogram softkey – enabling/disabling or changing any part of the histogram –...
Page 175 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Saving Readings The readings used to create the histogram can be saved to internal flash memory or to an external USB memory device as comma-separated values (CSV) in one measurement per line ASCII format.
Page 176 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging For marker, zoom, and pan adjustment the decimal position (i.e. 100's, 10's, 1's) NOTE highlighted by the arrow keys sets the amount of movement (coarse or fine) for each tick of the rotary knob.
Page 177 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Returns the following comma-separated sequence describing the current histogram: lower range value upper range value number of readings taken bin data The bin data includes: number of measurements less than the lower range value,...
Page 178: Trend Charts
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Trend Charts Reading trends for a given number of counter measurements (except continuous totalize) or timestamps can be represented within a 53210A trend chart, also known as a run chart. Figure 6-8 shows the components of a typical counter trend chart.
Page 179: Viewing Trend Charts
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Viewing Trend Charts At power-on or following a reset ( ) or instrument preset (Preset), numeric *RST data is displayed. The display can be changed to a trend chart by changing the display mode using the command:...
Page 180: Figure 6-9 Trend Chart Configuration And Control
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Figure 6-9 Trend Chart Configuration and Control. Trend Chart Boundaries The trend chart boundaries (Y Max and Y Min) can be set automatically (AutoScale On) or manually (AutoScale Off) using the menus under the Options...
Page 181 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Clearing the Trend Chart Clearing the trend chart clears reading memory and restarts the reading count on the next trigger received. Saving Readings The readings represented by the trend chart can be saved to internal flash memory or to an external USB memory device as comma-separated values (CSV) in one measurement per line ASCII format.
Page 182 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Zoom & Markers Window For marker, zoom, and pan adjustment the decimal position (i.e. 1000's, 100's, NOTE 10's, 1's) highlighted by the arrow keys sets the amount of movement (coarse or fine) for each tick of the rotary knob.
Page 183 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Show All updates the trend window to represent the current reading count. The reading indices are 0 and the Count value, and zoom and pan are also reset. Reading Decimation The trend window displays a maximum of 100 readings. When greater than 100 readings are displayed, the readings are decimated - grouped together and represented by decimation points.
Page 184 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging There are 1,000 readings in each decimation group in Figure 6-10 (100,000 readings/100 points displayed). The number of readings in each group changes if Show All is pressed and readings continue to be taken.
Page 185: Data Logging
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Data Logging The data logging feature of the 53210A counter allows you to log and analyze up to 1,000,000 readings. Data logging is enabled and configured from the front panel only, and is available with all counter measurements except continuous totalizing.
Page 186 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Configuring the Data Logger All logged readings are saved in the counter’s internal flash memory or to an external USB storage device after logging is complete. The readings are viewable in trend (run) chart format while logging is in progress and when complete.
Page 187 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Setting the Duration In terms of Time, the data logging duration is specified in format. The hh.mm.ss value is set using the rotary knob and arrow keys, or using the [Shift]ed numeric keys. By highlighting specific digits in the time window, greater resolution (i.e.
Page 188 53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging The maximum delay setting is 99:00:00. Starting the Data Logger Pressing the Run softkey enables data logging. Data logging begins following any specified start delay when a valid path/file exists. A default path and file name of: Internal\DataLog is used when the data logger application is started.
Page 189: Figure 6-12 Trend Chart Display During Data Logging
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Function Channel Current Reading Count (memory) Trend Window (100 points) reading indices time or number of readings remaining Figure 6-12 Trend Chart Display During Data Logging. When logging is complete, the Marker, Pan, and Zoom softkeys can be used review the data.
Page 190: Graphics Functions And Reading Memory
53210A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging Graphics Functions and Reading Memory Figure 6-13 summarizes the effects on reading memory when statistics and histograms are reset, and when trend charts are cleared. reading memory (record) (record) Reset Histogram: Reset Stats: - clears current histogram (record)
Page 191 Reading Formats and Data Flow Counter File System The Keysight 53210A counter allow you to specify the measurement (reading) format and storage location - both of which affect throughput speed. This chapter explains how data formats are set and the movement and storage of...
Page 192: Formats And Data Flow
8-bit data bytes which follow. Format is set following an instrument reset ( ) or front panel preset ASCII *RST (PRESet). A line feed (LF) and End-Or-Identify (EOI) follow the last reading in both formats. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 193: Specifying A Format
) or front panel preset (Preset), the byte order is set to *RST NORMal. Reading Transfer Size Each reading read from the output buffer in ASCII format is 23 bytes. Each readings in REAL format is eight bytes. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 194: Data Flow
USB Memory Device READ? (measurements) Figure 7-1 Data Flow within the 53210A Counter. Reading locations include the front panel, read ing memory (volatile), output buffer, internal flash memory (non-volatile), and external USB memory. The commands which determine data flow are listed in...
Page 195: Table 4-1 Table
Reading memory has the following attributes: 1 reading memory is cleared after a function change, during execution of the , or command, after cycling power, or READ? INITiate:IMMediate MEASure? following an instrument reset ( ) or preset ( *RST SYSTem:PRESet Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 196 READ? Example // frequency meas of 500 kHz signal with uHz resolution CONF:FREQ 500E3, 1E-6, (@1) // configure counter TRIG:COUN 1 // set trigger count SAMP:COUN 10 // take 10 readings READ? // read readings when complete Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 197 “Data corrupt or stale” is generated. Readings are transferred in Definite-Length Block format (Table 7-1), whether in ASCII or REAL (binary) format ( subsystem). The ‘oldest’ reading is FORMat transferred first (first in - first out). Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 198 If the data format is REAL ( subsystem), the readings are transferred in FORMat Definite-Length Block format (Table 7-1). The ‘oldest’ reading is transferred first (first in - first out). Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 199 A typical response showing a subset of the data is: +4.999962418998650E+005 HZ ...+4.999962370997962E+005,+4.999962418998650E+005,+4.999962407190446E+ 005,+4.999962443559675E+005, ... Querying the Reading Count The total number of readings in memory at any given time can be determined with the command: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 200 Memory Threshold Example (Note, this example is also contained on the Keysight 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD ROM.) This program sets up the counter to take 1,250,000 readings. Because volatile reading memory capacity is 1,000,000 readings, readings will be over-written (memory overflow) if data is not retrieved before memory fills.
Page 201 // loop until all readings complete For (cnt=0;cnt<1.25E6;cnt +=10000) {spoll=STAT:OPER:COND?; // serial poll condition reg sleep (100) // wait 100 ms }while !(spoll&4096) // repeat until threshold is reached R? 10E3 // retrieve readings from memory 10k at a time Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 202: Counter File System
Files are created within folders on the root directory, or within sub-folders relative to the root directory. The relationship of folders and files in internal flash memory and on the USB drive is shown in Figure 7-2. Figure 7-2 Folders and Files within Internal Memory and USB Storage. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 203: Creating Folders And Files In Flash Memory And On The Usb Drive
Formats and Data Flow Creating Folders and Files in Flash Memory and on the USB Drive Folders and files are created in instrument memory and on a USB drive as described in the following sections. Creating Folders Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 204 3 Repeat until the folder name is complete. Use the left arrow key (<) to backspace and change a character. Changing the character to a space erases the character. Press ‘Create Folder’ to create the folder. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 205 (“INT:\”). Creating Data Files See “Histograms” or “Trend Charts” and “Data Logging” in Chapter 6 information on storing measurement data from the front panel. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 206 MMEM:CDIR “USB:\dut_1” // specify a current folder CONF:FREQ 100E3,(@1) // configure measurement SAMP:COUN 50 // set 50 measurements INIT // initiate measurements *WAI // wait for readings to complete MMEM:STOR:DATA RDG_STORE, “data1.csv” // create file, copy Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 207 Instrument states can be stored in the instrument’s internal flash memory or on a USB memory device and recalled later to restore a specific configuration (Figure 7-2). The commands used to store and load counter states are: MMEMory:STORe:STATe <“file”> MMEMory:LOAD:STATe <“file”> Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 208 (Internal) or on the USB drive (External). If folders are not visible, press ‘Browse’ again to view the directory structure. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 209 (see MMEMory:MDIRectory The combination of folder and file name cannot exceed 240 characters, and cannot contain the characters \ / : * ? “ < > |. Preference files have a .prf extension. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 210 ‘ ’ and will overwrite any state saved there. All parameters of the counter’s state are saved with the exception of “user-preference” parameters such as those which configure the front panel display. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 211 MEMory:STATe:VALid? {0|1|2|3|4} queries the specified state location. If ‘0’ is returned the location is empty. If ‘1’ is returned a valid state exists. For example: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 212: User-Defined Power-On States
//verify a valid state is stored in location 3; 0 = no state //saved, 1 = valid state in location 3 MEM:STAT:VAL? 3 User-Defined Power-On States The 53210A counter can be set to power-up from one of five saved state locations or from a state file (Figure 7-2). For this to occur:...
Page 213 MEM:STAT:REC:SEL “test_A.sta” // recall file at power-on //when power is cycled, state test_A.sta is recalled When shipped from the factory, automatic state recall is d isabled NOTE (MEM:STAT:REC:AUTO OFF). With state recall disabled , factory defaults (*RST) are set at power-on. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 214 Selecting Last using the ‘Power On’ soft key will recall the instrument state at the time the counter was last turned off (state location 0). With Factory selected, the counter will power-up in its factory-set state. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 215: Managing Folders And Files
(external memory device). If the file deleted is not in the specified current directory, is an absolute folder path beginning with ‘\’ and starting at path the root folder. The file name must include the file extension. For example: Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 216 State files saved in state locations 0 - 4 can also be deleted with the commands: MEMory:STATe:DELete {0|1|2|3|4} MEMory:STATe:DELete:ALL //delete the contents of state location 2 MEM:STAT:DEL 2 //delete the contents of all numeric state locations MEM:STAT:DEL:ALL Deleting Folders and Files from the Front Panel Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 217 Use the front panel knob to highlight the desired file. 3 Press ‘Select’ to delete the file. Note, pressing ‘Select’ deletes the state file immed iately. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 218 (external memory device). If the file copied or moved is not in the specified current folder ( in the source and destination drives must be an MMEMory:CDIRectory path absolute folder path beginning with ‘\’. File names must include the extension. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 219 (.sta) files per folder can be obtained using the following commands. In addition to the list of files, the commands also provide the total amount of memory used and the total amount of memory available (free) on the specified drive. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 220 USB CATalog memory device containing a sub-folder plus a .csv data file, a .dat data file, and a state file are given as follows: MMEMory:CATalog[:ALL]? 253657088,519798784,"data1.csv,ASC,12500","state1.sta,STAT,860","data2. dat,BIN,1600","dut_a,FOLD,0" MMEMory:CATalog:DATA? 253657088,519798784,"data1.csv,ASC,12500","data2.dat,BIN,1600" MMEMory:CATalog:STATe? 253657088,519798784,"state1.sta,STAT,860" Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 221: Instrument Status
Keysight 53210A 350 MHz RF Counter User’s Guide Instrument Status Keysight 53210A Status System This chapter covers the status registers used to monitor conditions within the 53210A counter.
Page 222: Figure 8-1 The 53210A Status System
Instrument Status Instrument Locked Global Error Figure 8-1 The 53210A Status System. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 223: Keysight 53210A Status System
Instrument Status Keysight 53210A Status System This chapter provides an overview of the 53210A Status System. Refer to the subsystem and the IEEE-488 commands within the Programmer’s STATus Reference for bit definitions and additional information. The reference is located on the 53210A/53220A/53230A Product Reference CD (p/n 53220-13601).
Page 224: Standard Operation Register Group
– battery operation – battery charge status – measurement in progress – waiting for trigger – internal reference oscillator in use – remote interface lock and remote interface errors – configuration change – reading memory threshold reached Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 225 Bits within the (operational) event register are enabled with the command: STATus:OPERation:ENABle <enable> STATus:OPERation:ENABle? (query form) – : decimal value corresponding to the binary-weighted sum of the bits in enable the register. For example, to enable the bit monitoring low (critical) battery charge: STAT:OPER:ENAB 4 Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 226: Standard Event Register
– : decimal value corresponding to the binary-weighted sum of the bits in enable the register. For example, to enable the bit monitoring command syntax errors: *ESE 32 returns the weighted-sum of all enabled bits. *ESE? Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 227: Status Byte Register
: decimal value corresponding to the binary-weighted sum of the bits in enable the register. For example, to enable the bit representing the Questionable Data Register Group: *SRE 8 Chapter 7 and Product Reference CD (p/n 53220-13601) contain examples using subsystem. STATus Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 228 Instrument Status THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 229: 53210A Error Messages
Keysight 53210A 350 MHz RF Counter User’s Guide 53210A Error Messages Appendix A contains a description of the error messages associated with the 53210A RF counter.
Page 230 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description Command Errors -100 Command Error Generic syntax error - a Command Error as has occurred. An invalid character is present in the command’s header or in a -101 Invalid character parameter.
Page 231 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description A number was specified in the command header or in a parameter -128 Numeric data not allowed where numeric data is not allowed. An error was detected in the suffix (units) of a numeric parameter,...
Page 232 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description An expression was encountered at an instance where it is not -178 Expression data not allowed allowed by the instrument. Execution Errors A password-protected command or query could not be executed...
Page 233 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description Internal flash memory or the USB device has no memory space -254 Med ia full available to create the folder or file, or to perform the file operation.
Page 234 If this type of error occurs cycle power -310 I2C Comms Failure again. If the error remains, contact Keysight with a complete description of the error message. Calibration memory lost; The instrument was unable to reference calibration data in...
Page 235 A LAN network error has occurred or there is a possible hardware failure. Run the instrument self-test to determine if a hardware +110 LXI mDNS Error failure exists. If so, contact Keysight. Not able to execute while instrument is +263 A command was received while a measurement is in progress...
Page 236 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description The input signal present on the channel is greater than or equal to Cannot reset input protection; high +302 + 10Vp when a reset of the relay was attempted (key or using vol tage present INPut:PROTection:CLEar).
Page 237 See “Resetting the Security Code to a Null” in the 53210A Service Guide for details. A calibration cannot be performed when calibration memory is secured. See “To Unlock The Counter For Calibration” and “To Calibration error;...
Page 238 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description Channel 2 calibration signal power level The power level of the calibration signal was outside the expected +714 error range of the specified level. Channel 2 calibration signal frequency...
Page 239 53210A Error Messages Table A-1 53210A Error Message Descriptions. Code Message Description Sel f-Test failed: +904 main CPU error accessing boot environment Sel f-Test failed: Verify and if necessary, install the latest firmware update and +905 failed to read FPGA revision re-run the self-test.
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Page 241: Index
53100 series levels battery disabling for firmware creating data files reading the battery level updates creating folders beeper enabling creating state files block data transfers enabling histograms Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 242 Gate Out BNC setting minimum and maxi- gate signal polarity mum bin ranges frequency setting up file system measurements viewing data files gate signal threshold host name and IP address Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 243 USB address string functions instrument help internal flash adding instruments instrument manuals moving average filter interface configuration instrument overview moving files LAN cards, multiple instrument states Mx-B limit checking Interactive IO Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 244 Questionable Data register example slope clearing scaling functions threshold Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
Page 245 Keysight 53210A User’s Guide...
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Page 247 This information is subject to change without notice. Always refer to the Keysight website for the latest revision. © Keysight Technologies 2011 - 2017 Edition 3, September 1, 2017 Printed in Malaysia *53210-90001* 53210-90001 www.keysight.com...

Keysight 53210A User Manual

1 Preparation for Use

53210 A Software Installation and Interface Configuration

53210 A Measurements

53210 A Input Signal Conditioning

5 Triggering and Gating

53210 A Math, Graphing, and Data Logging

7 Formats and Data Flow

8 Instrument Status

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Summary of Contents for Keysight 53210A

Table of Contents