Page 1 ARRAY M3500A 6.5 Digit Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Printed date: 08/2010 Version: 1.04...
Page 2 M3500A DMM...
Page 3: Table Of Contents
EATURE VERVIEW ..................... 7 1.2 W ARRANTY NFORMATION ................... 8 1.3 P RECAUTION OF PERATION ..................9 1.4 U M3500A ....................10 PKEEP OF 1.5 S AFETY NFORMATION ....................10 1.6 S YMBOLS AND ERMS ....................11 1.7 I NSPECTION ........................
Page 4 4.1.6 Range (Manual & Auto)................ 63 4.1.7 Rate (Integration Time) ............... 64 4.1.8 Sensor Selection for Temperature Measurements ......... 66 The default sensor type, units and transducer in M3500A is PT100, ℃ and 4W RTD in order..................68 4.1.9 Remote Interface Selection ..............70 4.1.10 Input Terminal Switch ...............
Page 5 4.4.1 Display ......................95 4.4.2 Beeper ......................97 4.4.3 Reading Memory (Store & Recall) ........... 99 4.4.4 Sensitivity Band (Hold) ..............101 4.4.5 Scanning (Scan) ................... 102 4.4.6 Stepping (Step) ..................106 4.4.7 Initial Mode ..................... 107 4.4.8 Language ....................109 4.4.9 Error Condition ..................
Page 6 D. A BOUT PPLICATION ROGRAMS ................179...
Page 7: General Information
If you have any questions after reading this information, please contact your local service representative. 1.1 Feature Overview M3500A is a 6.5 digit digital multimeter. It has 0.0015% 24-hour basic DC voltage accuracy at 10V range and 0.002% 24-hour basic resistance accuracy at 10kΩ range.
Page 8: Warranty Information
Period measurement. Diode measurement. Continuity measurement for resistance. Thermocouple temperature & RTD measurements. Some additional capabilities of M3500A include: Full math functions – dB, dBm, MX+B, ratio, %, Max/Min, null & limits. Optional multipoint scanner card – For internal scanning, options include M3500–opt01,...
Page 9: Precaution Of Operation
such as fuses, buttons and relays. Neither does this warranty cover defects caused by improper installation, improper or insufficient maintenance, unauthorized modification, improper operation, ignorance of environmental specifications or improper software or interfacing. 4. Remarks: No other warranty is expressed or implied, except for the above mentioned.
Page 10: Upkeep Of M3500A
If the incorrect display or abnormal beeps occurred you should stop using the equipment at once. Do not use the Meter around explosive gas or inflammable vapor. Wipe the surface of M3500A multimeter with a piece of dry and clean cloth. 1.5 Safety Information Caution! Please read through the following safety information before using the product.
Page 11: Symbols And Terms
Do not apply excessive voltage to the Multimeter. Apply voltage within the rated range only. Use caution when measuring voltages above 30 V RMS, 42 V peak, or 60 V DC. These voltages pose an electric shock hazard. When using the probes, always keep your fingers behind the finger guards.
Page 12: Inspection
One CD (including this electronic User’s Manual and software applications). Optional accessories as you ordered. (Refer to the section 1.8 “Accessories”) The M3500A is provided with a Standard Test lead set, described below. Test Lead Ratings: IEC 61010-031 CAT III Operating Voltage: 1000V DC...
Page 13: Options And Accessories
In addition, please don’t use a damaged Test Lead Set against the instrument break or personal injury. 1.8 Options and Accessories The following options and accessories are available from ARRAY for use with the Model M3500A. Please refer to the following Table 1-1. Table 1-1 Part Name Part Number...
Page 14: M3500A's Dimension
1.9 M3500A’s Dimension Please get the dimension’s information in the following different ways. 1. The dimension without the handle and the front & Rear Bumpers is in the following Picture 1. (LxWxD - 213.6x88.6x370 mm) 2. The dimension with the handle and the front & Rear Bumpers is in the following Picture 2.
Page 15: Overview
2.1 Setting up Your M3500A Digital Multimeter The purpose of this section is to prepare you for using M3500A DMM. You may want to check if you have all the parts with your multimeter. All our products are handled and inspected professionally before shipping out to our customers.
Page 16 Figure 1-1 【Step 2】(Pull out the handle) When the handle is turned up to 90° with the multimeter please pull out the handle from the multimeter as shown in Figure 1-2. Figure 1-2 Ⅱ. Adjusting the position for your convenience Here are some example positions to suit user’...
Page 17 Figure 1-3 【Position 2】 The adjusted position is for operation as shown in Figure 1-4。 Figure 1-4 【Position 3】 The carrying position is with the handle as shown in Figure 1-5。 Figure 1-5...
Page 18: To Connect The Power
AC power. An incorrect voltage setting may cause severe damage to your instrument. Warning! The power cord supplied with M3500A contains a separate ground wire for use with grounded outlets. When proper connections are made, instrument chassis is connected to power line ground through the ground wire in the power cord.
Page 19 Figure 2-1 【Step 2】 Open the voltage setting selector cap as shown in Figure 2-2. (You might need a screwdriver to do so.) Figure 2-2 【Step 3】 Remove the red voltage setting selector from the right middle seam as shown in Figure 2-3. (You might need a screwdriver to do so.)
Page 20 Figure 2-3 【Step 4】 Turn it over to 220V position as shown in Figure 2-4. Figure 2-4 【Step 5】 Insert the voltage setting selector back into the socket and close the cap as shown in Figure 2-5. Figure 2-5...
Page 21: To Change The Fuse
2.1.2.2 To change the fuse Warning! Before replacing the power-line fuse, make sure the multimeter is disconnected from the AC power. You must be a qualified personnel to perform this action. Warning! For continued protection against fire or instrument damage, only replace fuse with the same type and rating. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses, locate and correct the cause of the trouble before replacing the fuse.
Page 22 【Step 2】 Open the voltage setting selector cap as shown in Figure 2-7. (You might need a screwdriver to do so.) Figure 2-7 【Step 3】 Remove the red voltage setting selector from the right middle seam as shown in Figure 2-8. (You might need a screwdriver to do so.) Figure 2-8...
Page 23 【Step 4】 Remove the broken fuse from the selector as shown in Figure 2-9. Figure 2-9 【Step 5】 Replace with the new fuse as shown in Figure 2-10. Figure 2-10 【Step 6】 Insert the voltage setting selector back into the socket and close the cap as shown in Figure 2-11.
Page 24 【Step 7】 Make sure the power switch on the front panel is in “Power OFF” condition before plugging as shown in Figure 2-12. Figure 2-12 Power switch: “POWER OFF” 【Step 8】 After finishing the above procedures, you can plug in your power cord as shown in Figure 2-13.
Page 25: Factory Default When Power-On
【Step 9】 Press on the power switch on the front panel for activating M3500A as shown in Figure 2-14. Figure 2-14 Power switch: - “POWER ON” 2.1.3 Factory Default When Power-ON Table 2-1 shows the factory default of M3500A. Table 2-1...
Page 26 AC Digits Slow 5.5 Voltage DC digits (1 PLC) Range Auto AC Digits Slow 5.5 Current DC Digits (1 PLC) Range Auto Digits Frequency Range AUTO and Period Medium Rate (100ms) Digits Diode Test Range Rate 0.1 PLC Slow 5.5 Digits Resistance (1 PLC)
Page 27: Features
Easy & Free PC applications. 2.3 M3500A Function Introduction For you to become familiar with the M3500A DMM, we will give a brief introduction to the basic operations of M3500A DMM. There are three major parts of M3500A: (2.3.1) the front panel, (2.3.2) the display, and (2.3.3) the rear panel.
Page 28 Figure 2-15 1. Power & Display: Power: Activates M3500A DMM. Display: Shows model, version & condition by pressing round PREV & NEXT buttons. 2-1. First row without SHIFT button: DCV: Selects DC voltage measurement. ACV: Selects AC voltage measurement. Ω2: Selects 2-wire resistance measurement.
Page 29 DIGITS: Changes resolution. RATIO: Enables the dcv:dcv ratio function. %: Calculates the ratio to a target value in percentage. MIN/MAX: Captures the minimum or maximum readings from the measurement. NULL: Activates the offset function in order to get the real measured reading.
Page 30 measuring. 3-2. The second row in SETUP section: ESC: Cancels selection, moving back to measurement display. ENTER: Accepts selection, moving to next choice or back to measurement display. LOCK: Presses SHIFT then ESC button to prevent unpredictable operation on the panel. In order to release lock condition, please press ESC again.
Page 31: The Display
Figure 2-16 2.3.2 The Display M3500A has a 5x7 dot matrix, dual-display with three-color (White, Red and Yellow) annunciators for a better view. There are two rows in the dual-display screen. The upper row displays readings and units. A maximum 13 characters are allowed for upper row dot-matrix display.
Page 32: Annunciators At Upper Side
): Indicated the continuity testing is enabled. ● : Indicates the diode testing operation is taken. CW: Not used for Model M3500A. CC: Not used for Model M3500A. CV: Not used for Model M3500A. EXT: Indicates the External Trigger Mode is enabled.
Page 33: The Rear Panel
2.3.3 The Rear Panel The rear panel of the M3500A is shown in Figure 2-20. This figure includes important abbreviated information that should be reviewed before using the instrument. 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-20 1. Inserted Connections & Fuse Device: &...
Page 34 line voltage setting. Configured for line voltages of 100/220V or 120/240V. (Depend on the power utility in your area.) 6. Option Slot: Designed for installing an optional multi-point scanner card (Model: M3500-opt01 or M3500-opt09). 7. Option GPIB (IEEE488 Connection)/RS-232: Connects a remote computer with an IEEE488 cable or with a DB-9 cable for changing operation environment instead of the front panel control (Model: M3500-opt04/M3500-opt06).
Page 35: Basic Measurement Function
Basic Measurement Function This chapter introduces some basic measurement functions in M3500A. You will learn how to use your M3500A multimeter to measure voltage, current, resistance, frequency, period, continuity, diode temperature in this chapter. 3.1 Voltage Measurements (DC & AC) The ranges for DC voltage measurements in M3500A are 100mV, 1V, 10V, 100V and 1000V.
Page 36 Connect test leads to your source signal and observe the reading ⑥ shown on the display. If the input signal is beyond the allowed range, an overflow message “OVLD” will be displayed. Figure 3-1 Figure 3-2 ※ Note: The rear panel terminals can also be used via the same procedures as the front panel terminals.
Page 37: Current Measurements (Dc & Ac)
Figure 3-3 3.2 Current Measurements (DC & AC) The ranges for DC current measurements in M3500A are 10mA, 100mA, 1A and 3A. For AC current measurements, the range is 1A with a sensitivity of 1 μA to 3A AC-Coupled TRMS with a sensitivity of 10μA.
Page 38 ⑤ Select the auto-range function by pressing AUTO button on the front panel or use △ and ▽ buttons to select desired range. ⑥ Connect test leads to your source signal and observe the reading shown on the display. If the input signal is greater than the allowed range, an overflow message “OVLD”...
Page 39: Resistance Measurements (2 & 4-Wire)
3.3 Resistance Measurements (2 & 4-wire) The ranges for resistance measurement are 100 Ω, 1KΩ, 10kΩ, 100kΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ, and 100MΩ, with a sensitivity of 100 μΩ (on 100 Ω range.) There are two modes for measuring the resistance: 2-wire mode as shown in Figure 3-6 and 4-wire mode as shown in Figure 3-7.
Page 40 Figure 3-6 Figure 3-7 ※ Note: The rear terminal panel also can be used via the same procedures like the front panel as shown in Figures 3-8 and 3-9. Figure 3-8...
Page 41: Frequency & Period Measurements
Figure 3-9 3.4 Frequency & Period Measurements M3500A uses an on-board counter with 25MHz to measure the frequency (period). The measurement band is from 3Hz to 300kHz (or 333 ms to 3.3 μs) and the measurement voltages range from 100mV to 750 V in AC.
Page 42: Continuity Measurements
3.5 Continuity Measurements M3500A uses 1 K Ω range for the continuity measurement. The meter beeps when the test resistance is less than the threshold resistance. The default threshold resistance is 10Ω, but you can set the threshold resistance to anything between 1 Ω and 1 K Ω. The resistance value set by you is stored in a volatile memory and will be cleared after the meter has been turned off.
Page 43: Diode Measurements
3.6 Diode Measurements M3500A uses a current source of 1 mA for diode testing. The maximum resolution is 10 μV on a fixed range of 1 V DC. The default threshold voltage is fixed between 0.3 and 0.8 volts and the reading rate is fixed at 0.1 PLC (The voltage bound is adjustable from 0.01V up to 1.2V.).
Page 44: Temperature Measurements
3.7 Temperature Measurements The M3500A supports thermocouples and resistance temperature detector (RTD) types of probes. For thermocouples, M3500A supports 7 types: E, J, K, N, R, S and T. Please refer to Table 3-1 for their temperature ranges. Be sure that the temperature function is configured for the right sensor type before making measurements (Refer to 4.1.8...
Page 45: Thermocouple Measurements
3.7.1 Thermocouple Measurements Connect the thermocouple adapter to the banana jacks on the front panel. The difference between each type is subject to the patch thermal leads. ※ Note: Only connection via the front panel can be used for temperature measurements.
Page 46 How to measure temperature with 2-Wire RTD The following Figure 3-13 shows theory diagram of 2-Wire RTD measurement. ① Use terminals switch to select front terminals. ② Insert a specified adapter into the front terminals. Connect the low thermal patch leads to the adapter as shown in Figure 3-14. ③...
Page 47: 3-Wire Rtd Measurements
Figure 3-14 3.7.2.2 3-Wire RTD Measurements How to measure temperature with 3-Wire RTD The following Figure 3-15 shows theory diagram of 3-Wire RTD measurement. ① Use terminals switch to select front terminals. ② Insert a specified adapter into the front terminals. Connect the low thermal patch leads to the adapter as shown in Figure 3-16.
Page 48 ③ Configure sensor type, transducer (4W) and unit using CONFIG + TEMP and ◁ or ▷. When ready, press ENTER button. For more information, refer to the section 4.1.8. ④ Press TEMP button. ⑤ Place RTD in the desired position and take the reading on the display. ※...
Page 49: 4-Wire Rtd Measurements
In Short Condition In Short Condition Figure 3-16 3.7.2.3 4-Wire RTD Measurements How to measure temperature with 4-Wire RTD The following Figure 3-17 shows theory diagram of 4-Wire RTD measurement.
Page 50 ① Use terminals switch to select front terminals. ② Insert a specified adapter into the front terminals. Connect the low thermal patch leads to the adapter as shown in Figure 3-18. ③ Configure sensor type, transducer (4W) and unit using CONFIG + TEMP and ◁...
Page 51 Figure 3-18...
Page 52: Front Panel Operations
Front Panel Operations This chapter contains information about how to change the parameters and settings for your measurements and all the details about each feature and function. 4.1 Measurement Configuration The following information will guide you through ways to configure measurement functions.
Page 53 When Auto Zero is enabled, M3500A takes the input signal reading as a base value and then internally disconnects the input signal, and takes an offset reading (a null offset). It then subtracts the offset from the base to get an accurate measurement.
Page 54 Procedures: MENU→SET ADC → ZERO→ AUTO ZERO {ON|OFF} Table 4-1 Auto Integration Time(PLC) Remote Digits Displayed Resolution DEFAULT DEFAULT COMPATIBLE COMPATIBLE Zero 0.02 0.02 4 ½ 4 ½ Fast 4 ½ digits 4 ½ 5 ½ Slow 4 ½ digits 5 ½...
Page 55: Filter
4.1.2 Filter Filter is used to remove noises in measurement readings. M3500A is equipped with two types of filters: AC filter and digital filter. AC filter is for AC measurements only. It also affects the speed of the multimeter to yield a measurement reading.
Page 56: Digital Filter
From your PC terminal, use the following command to specify the filter type: DETector:BANDwidth {3|20|200|MIN|MAX} 4.1.2.2 Digital Filter Definition: M3500A uses an averaging digital filter to yield a reading for display from a specified number of measurement readings in the past. The past...
Page 57 measurement readings are stored in a stack of memory. The number may be in the range of 2 to 100. You may select one of the two modes of digital filter operations: Moving Average and Repeating Average. The moving average filter puts the specified number of reading conversions in a first-in, first-out order.
Page 58: Resolution Setting (Digits)
or REPEAT AVG.. Please ENTER to confirm. Press FILTER button to enable or disable this function. Remote Interface Operation Use the following commands to set your digital filter: SENSe:AVERage:TCONtrol {MOVing|REPeat} SENSe:AVERage:TCONtrol? SENSe:AVERage:COUNt {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} SENSe:AVERage:COUNt? [MINimum|MAXimum] SENSe:AVERage:STATe {OFF|ON} SENSe:AVERage:STATe? 4.1.3 Resolution Setting (Digits) Definition Resolution with the number of digits on a multimeter is visible.
Page 59 interface operation. Front Panel Operation There are two ways to set the resolution. The locations of the buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-3. First select your desired measurement function by pressing one of the function buttons located on the first row of your meter's front panel. Press DIGITS button to select your desired resolution for your measurement.
Page 60: Dc Input Resistance
Definition To reduce the effect of loading errors due to the input resistance, M3500A allows you to select a much larger input resistance (> 10G Ω) for low input DC voltage (100mV, 1V and 10V) measurements. This feature is only available for DC voltage measurements and it is not...
Page 61 Default The default input resistance for all measurements is 10M Ω. Please refer to Table 2-1 on page 24. The DC input resistance can only be changed for measurements with 100mV, 1V or 10V range. For 100V DCV, 1000 V DCV and other measurement functions, the input resistance is fixed at 10M Ω...
Page 62: Threshold Resistance (Continuity)
(the result is a fixed input DC resistance at 10M Ω for all measurements.) INPut:IMPedance:AUTO {OFF | ON} 4.1.5 Threshold Resistance (Continuity) Definition When testing continuity, the beeper goes off when the measured resistance is less than the threshold resistance. The threshold resistance can be set to any value between 1Ω...
Page 63: Range (Manual & Auto)
4.1.6 Range (Manual & Auto) Definition When making measurements except CONT, DIODE and Temperature, you can let the machine choose ranges for you, or you can select the appropriate ranges manually by yourself. The difference between auto-range and manual-range is the settling time. Auto-range is a convenient way for you, but manual-range can usually speed up the process.
Page 64: Rate (Integration Time)
PLC (power line cycles). One PLC for 60 Hz is 16.67 ms, and for 50 Hz is 20 ms. There are 4 different integration times in M3500A for you to select from: 0.02, 0.1, 1 and 10 PLCs.
Page 65 How to set the integration time: You can set the integration time either through the front panel operation or through the remote interface operation. Front Panel Operation Integration time is set indirectly when you selects the measurement resolution. Please refer to chapter 4.1.3 for details about how to set resolution or the digits.
Page 66: Sensor Selection For Temperature Measurements
SENSe:PERiod:APERture? [MINimum|MAXimum] The following table shows the relationship between the integration time and the measurement resolution. Resolution Integration Time(PLC) DEFAULT COMPATIBLE 0.02 0.0001 x Full-Scale 0.0001 x Full-Scale 0.00001 x Full-Scale 0.00001 x Full-Scale 0.000001 x Full-Scale 0.000003 x Full-Scale 0.0000001 x Full-Scale 0.000001 x Full-Scale 4.1.8...
Page 67 Table 4-3: Table 4-3 Type Alpha Beta Delta R-zero PT100 0.003850 0.10863 1.49990 100Ω D100 0.003920 0.10630 1.49710 100Ω F100 0.003900 0.11000 1.49589 100Ω PT385 0.003850 0.11100 1.50700 100Ω PT3916 0.003916 0.11600 1.50594 100Ω NTCT 0.003850 0.10863 1.49990 100Ω Here is the temperature equation that is used to determine the RTD temperature: <...
Page 68: The Default Sensor Type, Units And Transducer In M3500A Is Pt100, ℃ And 4W Rtd In Order
In each subrange, the calibration constants required for that subrange are listed. Default The default sensor type, units and transducer in M3500A is PT100, ℃ and 4W RTD in order. How to set up RTD You can set up the RTD configuration either through the front panel operation or through the remote interface operation.
Page 69 For Example: If the criterion value is (T1 =30.0°C), the reference value showing on the M3500A is (T2=24.0°C). You will get a remainder T3 (T1 – T2 = 6.0°C). Then you just configure the default simulated value from 23.0°C to 29.0°C on the M3500A.
Page 70: Remote Interface Selection
2. Measure a known and accurate reference temperature (T1). The result showing on the M3500A is (T2). 3. Adjust the simulated value (23.0°C to 23.0°C + T3.) 4. Configure the Simulated value by pressing CONFIG > SHIFT >...
Page 71: Input Terminal Switch
Figure 4-7 4.2 Trigger Operations In this section we will discuss the triggering system in M3500A. M3500A provides a variety of trigger operations for you. You can select a trigger mode, a trigger source and different trigger settings for a specific measurement.
Page 72: Trigger Mode
The rate of taking readings depends on the current settings. This function is only available through the front panel. The auto triggering is also the default for trigger mode in M3500A. How to use Auto Trigger Press ATUO TRIGGER on the front panel to toggle for enabling auto trigger mode.
Page 73 Figure 4-9 B. Internal Immediate Trigger Mode (Remote Interface Operation Only) Definition The immediate triggering mode is only available through the remote interface operations and it is the default for the remote interface operations. When the meter is in immediate trigger mode, a trigger will be issued immediately as soon as the meter is in “wait for event”...
Page 74: Trigger Source
Figure 4-10. Figure 4-10 4.2.2 Trigger Source In M3500A, you can specify the trigger source to be one of these three options: front panel operations, external hardware trigger source and remote interface operations.
Page 75 External Triger Terminal You can trigger the M3500A by using a low-true pulse to the Ext Trig (external trigger) terminal located on the rear panel. And to use this terminal via the remote interface, you have to select the external trigger source by using the TRIGer:SOURce EXTernal command.
Page 76: Trigger Setting
PC terminal: TRIGger:SOURce IMMediate 4.2.3 Trigger Setting In M3500A, you can specify a variety of trigger settings including the number of samples per trigger, the number of triggers per event, reading hold, and the trigger delay for their measurements. A. Number of samples on each trigger...
Page 77 the digits. The locations of these buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-11. Procedures: MENU → TRIG → N SAMPLE →<Number> Figure 4-11 Remote Interface Operation Use the following command to set the number of samples from your PC terminal.
Page 78 Defaults The default of the trigger delay is automatic. M3500A automatically selects a delay time for you according to the setting of the measurement if you do not specify a delay. A list of the default for each measurement function is shown on Table 4-4.
Page 79 AC filter speed. The following table shows the default delay time for each measurement setting. Table 4-4 Trigger Delay Measurement Function Setting Time PLC >= 1 1.5 ms DCV/DCI PLC < 1 1.0 ms 100Ω ~ 100kΩ 1.5 ms Ω2 and Ω4 1 MΩ...
Page 80: Math Operations
TRIGger:DELay {<seconds>|MINimum|MAXimum} TRIGger:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON} 4.3 Math Operations This section will introduce the mathematical operations in M3500A. There are eight math operations: RITIO, %, Min/Max, NULL, Limits, MX+B, dB and dBm testing. They either store data for later use or perform mathematical operations on the readings. Note that these math operations are available to all measurement functions except continuity and diode testing.
Page 81: Ratio
mathematical feature, excluding Ratio, and will be lit by enabling whichever math feature. Also, press the same buttons again for the enabled math feature will disable the same math feature. ※ Note: Press RATIO button, the “RATIO” anunnciator will be lit on the display.
Page 82: (Percent)
Figure 4-14 Remote Interface Operation Use the following command to make a RATIO measurement. CONFigure:VOLTage:DC:RATio {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF} 4.3.2 % (Percent) Definition This mathematical function calculates the ratio of a measurement reading to a specified target value as the form of percentage. The calculation formula is shown below: The specified target value is store in a volatile memory and will be cleared after the meter has been turned off or a remote interface reset.
Page 83: Min/Max
and △ and ▽ buttons to increase or decrease the numbers to a desired target value. Press ENTER to set the value. Press % to activate this function. And then observe the calculated percent value on the display as shown as Figure 4-15. ※...
Page 84 and will be cleared when the meter is turned off, or when the MIN/MAX is turned on, or after a remote interface reset. The meter beeps every time when it captures a new minimum or maximum. How to use Min/Max You can use the Min/Max feature either through the front panel operation or the remote interface operation.
Page 85: Null
CALCulate:AVERage:MINimum? CALCulate:AVERage:MAXimum? CALCulate:AVERage:AVERage? CALCulate:AVERage:COUNt? 4.3.4 Null Definition When null function is enabled, the displayed measurement reading is the difference between the measured input signal reading and the stored null (also called relative) value. The null (relative) value is stored in a volatile memory and the value will be cleared when the multimeter is power-off.
Page 86: Limits Test
Figure 4-17 The Remote Interface Operation You can use the following commands on your PC terminal to make a null measurement. CALCulate:FUNCtion NULL CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:STATe? CALCulate:NULL:OFFSet {<value>|MAXimum|MINimum} 4.3.5 Limits Test The limits testing operation allows you to adjust a maximal and a minimal limit values.
Page 87 Front Panel Operation To set the limits, you needs to configure the LIMITS math function by pressing CONFIG + SHIFT + RATIO, and then use ◁ and ▷ to locate either lower limit (MIN) or upper limit (MAX). Press ENTER to select the limit you wish to set.
Page 88: Mx+B
Figure 4-19 Remote Interface Operation Use the following commands to enable the limits function or to set the limits: CALCulate:FUNCtion LIMit CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:STATe? CALCulate:LIMit:LOWer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} CALCulate:LIMit:UPPer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} 4.3.6 MX+B Definition This mathematical function multiplies a measurement reading (X) by a specified scale factor (M) and add an offset (B) automatically.
Page 89 User’s guide.). Second, if the input current source you want to measure exceeds the current specification, 3A, of the M3500A. Then the DCV/ACV and MX+B functions would be helpful. The current value is calculated through the equation as follows. “I=V/R”.
Page 90 (via the front panel operation for the single current measurement.): Case: Mr. Obama wants to measure a source, 10A, through a 0.1Ω current shunt and a M3500A DMM. However, the DMM’s tolerance just can stand the maximum input current, 3A. What should he do? Please obey the following procedures and illustrations as a big current measurement solution.
Page 91: Db/Dbm
values of M and B first. Then Select a measurement function and press SHIFT + % to activate MX+B function as shown as Figure 4-20. Figure 4-20 Remote Interface Operation Use the following commands to enable and configure MX+B function: CALCulate:FUNCtion MXB CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:STATe?
Page 92 ※ NOTE: The is the input signal and the is the relative reference. The dB measurement is applied to DC and AC voltage only. The relative value is adjustable and is stored in a volatile memory. The range for the relative value is between 0 dBm and dBm.
Page 93 Definition With dBm selected, a voltage measurement is displayed as the level of power, relative to 1 milliwatt, dissipated through a reference resistance. The reference resistance is adjustable in M3500A. The calculation of dBm is defined as below: ⎛ ⎞...
Page 94 will be cleared after the multimeter has been power-off. This feature is available for DCV and ACV only. How to set the reference resistance You can set the reference resistance either through the front panel operation or the remote interface operation. Front Panel Operation Press CONFIG + SHIFT + MIN/MAX, then use ◁...
Page 95: Other System Related Operations
4.4.1 Display M3500A has a 5x7 dot matrix, dual-display with three-color (White, Red and Yellow) annunciators for a better view. A maximum 13 characters are allowed for upper row dot-matrix display and a maximum 16 characters are allowed for lower row dot-matrix display as shown on Figure 4-25.
Page 96 measurement without waiting for display, or when the measurement is done through the remote interface operations on their PC terminal. Figure 4-25 When the display is turned off, an “OFF” will be lit at the lower right corner of the display screen. This doesn't mean the display is POWER-OFF, but only that the measurement readings will not be sent to the display.
Page 97: Beeper
(clears the message displayed) 4.4.2 Beeper M3500A multimeter beeps when some certain conditions are met or when an error occurs. But there may be time you want to disable the beeper for some operations. Although you can turn off the beeper, the click sound you hear when a button is pressed will not be disabled.
Page 98 a stable reading is detected and held. the test voltage is within the limits in diode testing. the source signal fails the limit testing. After the beeper is disabled, the meter still emits a tone when: an error occurs. any button on the front panel is pressed. the threshold value is exceeded in continuity testing.
Page 99: Reading Memory (Store & Recall)
You can store the readings and access to the stored readings through either the front panel operation or the remote interface operation. Note: Each datum stored from M3500A to remote interface will be in ※ a first in and first out condition.
Page 100 The location of the buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-28. ※ Note: The MEM annunciator will be lit while the multimeter stores readings and be turned off when the specified number of readings is reached. Procedures: CONFIG +STORE→ <NUMBER> Figure 4-28 To recall the stored readings, use the following steps: Press RECALL button, and the multimeter will display all the stored...
Page 101: Sensitivity Band (Hold)
Remote Interface Operation You can use the following commands from their PC terminals to store or retrieve readings in the memory. In addition, the number for STORE function only can be set through front panel. INITiate (This command tells the meter to be on “wait-for-trigger” state. After a measurement is taken, measurement readings will be placed in the memory.) FETCh? (Use this command to retrieve stored readings.)
Page 102: Scanning (Scan)
4.4.5 Scanning (Scan) You can purchase an optional internal scanner card to be used with M3500A as the following picture shown. This multipoint scanner card lets you switch and scan up to 10 channels of input signals. You can open and...
Page 103 ※ Note: The output 2 is only for 4-wired resistance measurement. Please refer to the above picture for more connection information. When you use 4-wired resistance measurement with scanner card, please note that the channel 1 is relative to the channel 6, channel 2 to channel 7 and so on.
Page 104 Common Mode Voltage: 350V peak between any terminal and earth. Maximum Voltage Between Any Two Terminals: 200V peak. Maximum Voltage Between Any Terminal and M3500A Input LO: 200V peak. ENVIRONMENTAL: Meets all M3500A environmental specifications. M3500A-opt01 Scanner Card Configuration & Speed List:...
Page 105 27.0 (Slow 4.5 & Fast 5.5) 0.1 19.0 (Slow 5.5 & Fast 6.5) 1 (Slow 6.5) 10 AutoZero OFF,AutoGain OFF,AutoRange OFF, Scan Timer=0,60Hz rate(ch/s) NPLC Take Time with 2000 Readings(sec) (Fast 4.5) 0.02 Mix function (Slow 4.5 & Fast 5.5) 0.1 (VDC+2WRES) (Slow 5.5 &...
Page 106: Stepping (Step)
ALL” option. Press SHIFT + DIGITS to scan. The locations of the buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-31. Figure 4-31 4.4.6 Stepping (Step) Stepping is scanning with a specified time delay between taking input signal through the defined channels. ※...
Page 107: Initial Mode
The section contains two selections: “DEFAULT” and “SAVE DATA”. You can select “SAVE DATE” to save the current configuration or select “DEFAULT” to restore the factory value after restarting M3500A. The valid range of “SAVE DATA” is listed in Table 4-5.
Page 108 Items of Save Data Contents Continuity Threshold Resistance Diode Boundary Voltage Sensor、Types、Units、USER Temperature (RTD) define、SPRTD Thermocouple Types, Units, R Junction Step & Scan Count, Timer Reference Resistance MX+B Values: M, B Reading Hold Sensitivity Band DC Input Resistance Input R USB、GPIB ADDR、RS232 baud &...
Page 109: Language
Press MENU and then use ◁ and ▷ to locate “SYSTEM” submenu. Press ENTER to select it. Again use ◁ and ▷ to locate “LANGUAGE” submenu. Press ENTER to select it. Use ◁ and ▷ to switch to DEFAULT (M3500A) or COMPATIBLE. Press ENTER on your selection. The locations of the buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-34.
Page 110: Firmware Revision
The locations of the buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-35. Figure 4-35 4.4.10 Firmware Revision M3500A has three microprocessors for various internal systems. You can query the multimeter to determine which revision of firmware is installed for each microprocessor. How to check the firmware revision Press MENU and then use ◁...
Page 111: Calibration
4-36. Figure 4-36 4.4.11 Calibration M3500A will show the latest calibrated date and the next calibration date on the display after following the operation below. The location of the buttons is shown with red rectangle frames in Figure 4-37. How to see the calibration information Press MENU then locate “CALIBRATE”...
Page 112: Self-Test
For more calibration procedure information, please contact your local distributor. 4.4.12 Self-Test Self-test procedures are built in M3500A for checking that the logic and measurement hardware are functioning properly. Every time when the multimeter is powered on, a set of test procedures is performed to make sure the basic function of the multimeter works properly.
Page 113 → → Procedure: MENU SYSTEM SELF TEST After self-test procedure, the result, PASS or FAIL, will be shown. If the result is FAIL, the “ERR” annunciator on the display panel will be lit, and error codes will be stored. You can check the error codes by the following procedure.
Page 114 608 Buffer2 offset out of range This procedure is to test the offset of ± buffer U508. The result is checked against a limit of 0 0.1mV 609 DC gain x1 failed This procedure is to test the tolerance of DC ×...
Page 115 ± a limit of 0A 5A. This test confirms that the dc current sense path is functional. The test limit is set wide because K303 does not open the current input during self-test. This test should catch a dc current sense failure without causing false failures when current inputs are applied during self-test.
Page 116 624 Unable to sense line frequency The supplied voltage AC2 is routed through a comparator U4 to generate a logic input signal. This test checks that the logic input from U4 to panel MCU U3 is toggling. If no logic input is detected, the instrument will assume 50Hz line operation for all future measurements.
Page 117: Remote Interface Operations
Remote Interface Operations M3500A supports two remote interfaces: the built-in USB and optional GPIB (IEEE-488). With GPIB, you will need a GPIB interface card. This chapter lists the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instrument) commands available to control the multimeter. For the first time to use SCPI, you would better to refer to Appendix B.
Page 118 How to connect a computer or Terminal with the RS-232 To connect the M3500A to a computer or terminal, a proper interface cable is essential. Most computers and terminals belong to DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) devices including the DMM. You must apply a DTE-to-DTE interface cable, which is commonly called null-modem, modem-eliminator, or crossover cable (DB-9, Female to Female pin).
Page 119: Pass/Fail Output From Usb Connector
5.1 Pass/Fail Output From USB Connector The USB connector, which comforns to USBTMC protocol, on the rear panel of M3500A is a series “B” connector. When the USB interface is disabled (IEEE-488 interface is selected), the internal pass and fail TTL output signals (limit testing) will be transmitted via the USB port.
Page 120: Setting Up For Remote Interface
USB or GBIP interface. How to set up for USB interface The USB cord should be connected well between M3500A and your PC. Install the M3500A application in your PC and execute the program. Click Tool tab for Command Control, then type in your command.
Page 121: Remote Interface Commands
How to set up for GPIB interface Insert GPIB interface card into the interface slot on the rear panel. Install the M3500A application in your PC and execute the program. Click Tool tab for Command Control, then type in your command. The icons and buttons are shown with red rectangle frames in Figures 5-1, 5-2 and 5-3.
Page 122 PERiod? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF} CONTinuity? DIODe? TCOuple TEMPerature? The CONFigure Command The CONFigure command offers a little more flexibility than the MEASure? Command. The multimeter sets the parameters for the requested function, range and resolution, but does not make the measurements. You have an option to change the configuration.
Page 123 output buffer right away. You must enter the reading data into your bus controller or the multimeter will stop making measurements when the output buffer fills. Readings are not stored in the multimeter’s internal memory when using the READ? Command. Using the READ? Command has a similar effect as using the INITiate command followed immediately by the FETCh? command, except readings are not buffered internally.
Page 124 FUNCtion “FREQuency” FUNCtion “PERiod” FUNCtion “CONTinuity” FUNCtion “DIODe” FUNCtion “TCOuple” FUNCtion “TEMPerature” FUNCtion? [SENSe:] VOLTage:DC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} VOLTage:DC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] VOLTage:AC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} VOLTage:AC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] CURRent:DC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} CURRent:DC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] CURRent:AC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} CURRent:AC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] RESistance:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} RESistance:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] FRESistance:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} FRESistance:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]...
Page 125 FRESistance:RANGe:AUTO? FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON} FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO? PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON} PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO? [SENSe:] VOLTage:DC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} VOLTage:DC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum] VOLTage:AC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} VOLTage:AC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum] CURRent:DC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} CURRent:DC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum] CURRent:AC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} CURRent:AC:RESolutioin? [MINimum|MAXimum] RESistance:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} RESistance:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum] FRESistance:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum} FRESistance:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum] [SENSe:] UNIT {Cel|Far|K} UNIT? TCOuple:TYPE {E|J|K|N|R|S|T} TCOuple:TYPE? TCOuple:SIMulated {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TCOuple:SIMulated? [SENSe:] TEMPerature:RTD:TYPE {PT100|D100|F100|PT385|PT3916|USER|SPRTD|NTCT}...
Page 126 TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX? [MINimum|MAXimum] TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX? [MINimum|MAXimum] [SENSe:] VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum} VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum] CURRent:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum} CURRent:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum] RESistance:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum} RESistance:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum] FRESistance:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}...
Page 127 [SENSe:] AVERage:TCONtrol {MOVing|REPeat} AVERage:TCONtrol? AVERage:COUNt {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} AVERage:COUNt? [MINimum|MAXimum] AVERage:STATe {OFF|ON} AVERage:STATe? [SENSe:] ZERO:AUTO {OFF|ONCE|ON} ZERO:AUTO? GAIN:AUTO {OFF|ONCE|ON} GAIN:AUTO? INPut: IMPedance:AUTO {OFF|ON} IMPedance:AUTO? Scanner Card Configuration Commands ROUTe:CLOSe <channel> ROUTe:CLOSe? ROUTe:OPEN ROUTe:STATe? ROUTe:SCAN:FUNCtion <channel>,{<function>|“VOLT:DC”|“VOLT:AC”| “FREQuency”|“RESistance”|“FRESistance”|“NONE”} ROUTe:SCAN:FUNC? <channel> ROUTe:SCAN:TIMER? ROUTe:SCAN:TIMER <value> ROUTe:SCAN:COUNT? ROUTe:SCAN:COUNT <value>...
Page 128 There are eight math operations. Only one of them can be enabled at a time. They either store data for later use or perform mathematical operations on the readings. Note that these eight math operations are available to all measurement functions except continuity and diode testing.
Page 129 DATA:FEED RDG_STORE,{“CALCulate”|””} DATA:FEED? TRIGGERING M3500A provides a variety of trigger operations for you. You can select a trigger mode, a trigger source and different trigger settings for a specific measurement. Refer to Figure 4-8 for triggering system flow chart. Triggering from a remote interface is a multi-step sequence. You must first configure the mulitmeter by choosing the desired function, range and resolution.
Page 130 READ? TRIGger: SOURce {BUS|IMMediate|EXTernal} SOURce? TRIGger: DELay {<seconds>|MINimum|MAXimum} DELay? [MINimum|MAXimum] TRIGger: DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON} DELay:AUTO? SAMPle: COUNt {<value>| MINimum|MAXimum } COUNt? [MINmum|MAXimum ] TRIGger: COUNt {<value>| MINimum|MAXimum|INFinite } COUNt? [MINmum|MAXimum] SYSTEM-RELATED Commands Each system related operation performs a task that is not measurement related but plays an important role in making your measurements.
Page 131 BEEPer:STATe {OFF|ON} BEEPer:STATe? SYSTem:ERRor? SYSTem:VERSion? DATA:POINts? SYSTEM:IDNSTR “MANUFACTURER,PRODUCT” *RST *IDN? STATUS REPORTING Commands SYSTem:ERRor? STATus: QUEStionable:ENABle <enable value> QUEStionable:ENABle? QUEStionable:EVENt? STATus:PRESet *CLS *ESE <enable value> *ESE? *ESR? *OPC *OPC? *PSC {0|1} *PSC? *SRE <enable value> *SRE? *STB? Other Interface Commands...
Page 132 SYSTem:LOCal SYSTem:REMote IEEE-488.2 COMMON Commands *CLS *ESE <enable value> *ESE? *ESR? *IDN? *OPC *OPC? *PSC {0|1} *PSC? *RST *SRE <enable value> *SRE? *STB? *TRG...
Page 133: Error Messages
Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out (FIFO) order. The first error returned is the first error that was stored. When you has read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off. M3500A beeps once each time an error occurs.
Page 134 -104 Data type error A parameter type error was found in the command string. -105 GET not allowed A Group Execute Trigger (GET) is not allowed in the command string. -108 Parameter not allowed More parameters were found than needed for the command . -109 Missing parameter Not enough parameters were received for the command.
Page 135 -148 Character not allowed A discrete parameter was received but a character string or a numeric parameter was expected. -151 Invalid string data An invalid character string was received. -158 String data not allowed A character string was received but not allowed for the command. -160~-168 Block data errors Block data is not acceptable.
Page 136 -222 Data out of range A numeric parameter value is out of range. -223 Too much data A character string was too long. -224 Illegal parameter value A discrete parameter was received which was not a valid choice for the command.
Page 137 531 Insufficient memory There is not enough memory to store the requested number of readings in internal memory using the INITiate command. The product of the sample count (SAMPle:COUNt) and the trigger count (TRIGger:COUNt) must not exceed 512 readings. 532 Cannot achieve requested resolution The multimeter cannot achieve the requested measurement resolution.
Page 138: Appendix
Appendix This appendix contains the performance specifications of the M3500A. It covers the AC, DC, Resistance, Temperature, and Frequency/Period characteristics under a variety of conditions. It also contains the general characteristics and accuracy calculations for your convenience. A lot of efforts are made to make sure these specifications serve your needs for production, engineering and/or research purposes.
Page 139 1 Year Shunt Function Range Resolution Resistance (23°C ± 5°C) 10.00000mA 10 nA 5.1Ω 0.050 + 0.020 100.0000mA 100 nA 5.1Ω 0.050 + 0.005 1.000000A 1 uA 0.1Ω 0.100 + 0.010 Current) 3.00000A 10 uA 0.1Ω 0.120 + 0.020 1 Year Function Range Test Current...
Page 140 Frequency and Period Characteristics Accuracy ± (% of reading) 1 Year Function Frequency (Hz) Range 23º C±5º C 0.10 100mV 5-10 Frequency 0.05 & 10-40 0.03 Period 750V 40-300K 0.01 AC Characteristics Accuracy ± (% of reading + % of range) 1 Year Frequency Function...
Page 141 TRMS 5-10 0.35 + 0.04 Voltage) 10-20K 0.06 + 0.04 20-50K 0.12 + 0.05 50K – 100K 0.60 + 0.08 100K – 300K 4.00 + 0.50 1.00 + 0.03 5-10 0.35 + 0.03 1.0 uV 1.000000V 10-20K 0.06 + 0.03 20-50K 0.12 + 0.05 750.000V...
Page 142 5-10 0.35 + 0.06 10-5K 0.15 + 0.06...
Page 143: General Specifications
B. General Specifications item Limitation & description 100V/120V/220V/240V ± 10% Power Supply 50/60 Hz ± 10% Power Line Frequency Power Consumption 25 VA peak (16 W average) 0 ℃ to 50 ℃ Operating Temperature Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperature up to 31 Operating Humidity ℃...
Page 144: Remote Interface Reference
C. Remote Interface Reference C.1 An Introduction to the SCPI Language SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is an ASCII-based instrument command language designed for test and measurement instruments. Refer “Simplified Programming Overview,” for an introduction to the basic techniques used to program the multimeter over the remote interface.
Page 145 Command Format Used in This Manual The format used to show commands in this manual is shown below: VOLTage:DC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum} The command syntax shows most commands (and some parameters) as a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters. The upper-case letters indicate the abbreviated spelling for the command.
Page 146 Querying Parameter Settings You can query the current value of most parameters by adding a question mark ( ? ) to the command. For example, the following command sets the sample count to 10 readings: "SAMP:COUN 10" You can query the sample count by executing: "SAMP:COUN?"...
Page 147 in length, and may include one or more parameters. The command keyword is separated from the first parameter by a blank space. Use a semicolon ( ; ) to separate multiple commands as shown below: "*RST; *CLS; *ESE 32; *OPC?" SCPI Parameter Types The SCPI language defines several different data formats to be used in program messages and response messages.
Page 148: Output Data Formats
INPut:IMPedance:AUTO {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.
Page 149 resolution. The reading is sent to the output buffer. MEASure:VOLTage:DC:RATio? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF },{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF} Preset and make a dc:dc ratio measurement with the specified range and resolution. The reading is sent to the output buffer. For ratio measurements, the specified range applies to input signal, yet autorange is selected for the reference signal.
Page 150: The Configure Command
MEASure:PERiod? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF} Preset and make a period measurement with the specified range and resolution. The reading is sent to the output buffer. For period measurements, the meter uses only one “range” for all inputs between 0.33 seconds and 3.3 μsec. With no input signal applied, period measurements return “0”.
Page 151 Preset and configure the multimeter for AC voltage measurements with the specified range and resolution. This command does not initiate the measurement. For AC measurement, resolution is fixed at 6½ digits. Therefore the resolution parameter only affects the front panel display. CONFigure:CURRent:DC {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF} Preset and configure the multimeter for DC current measurements with the specified range and resolution.
Page 152: The Measurement Configuration Command
seconds and 3.3 µsec. With no input signal applied, period measurements return “0”. CONFigure:CONTinuity Preset and configure for a continuity measurement. This command does not initiate the measurement. The range and resolution are fixed at 1kΩ and 5½ digits respectively. CONFigure:DIODe Preset and configure for a diode measurement.
Page 153 Select a range for the selected function. For frequency and period measurements, range applies signal’s input voltage, frequency (use FREQuency:VOLTage or PERiod:VOLTage). MIN selects the lowest range for the selected function. MAX selects the highest range. [SENSe:]<function>:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the range for the selected function. For frequency and period, use FREQuency:VOLTage or PERiod:VOLTage.
Page 154 Query thermocouple sensor type. [SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:RSELect {REAL|SIMulated } Select a reference junction type, real or simulated. [SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:RSELect? Query the reference junction type, real or simulated. [SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:SIMulated {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the default temperature of the simulated reference junction. [SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:SIMulated? Query the default temperature of the simulated reference junction. [SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:REAL:OFFSet {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the offset voltage of the real reference junction.
Page 155 Set the beta constant for the user type. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:BETA? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the beta constant for the user type. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the delta constant for the user type. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the delta constant for the user type. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the sensor R value at 0 degree Celsius.
Page 156 [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the B coefficient. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the C coefficient. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the C coefficient. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the D coefficient. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the D coefficient. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer FRTD Set the RTD Measurement to 4-Wire. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer RTD Set the RTD Measurement to 2-Wire.
Page 157 Set the gate time (or aperture time) for period function. Specify 10 ms (4.5 digits), 100 ms (default; 5.5 digits), or 1 second (6.5 digits). [SENSe:]PERiod:APERture? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the gate time (or aperture time) for period function. [SENSe:]DETector:BANDwidth {3|20|200|MINimum|MAXimum} Specify the lowest frequency expected in the input signal. The meter selects the slow, medium or fast ac filter based on the frequency you specify.
Page 158 Query the input resistance mode. Returns “1”(ON) or “0”(OFF). ROUTe:TERMinals? Query the multimeter to determine if the front or rear input terminals are selected. Returns "FRON" or "REAR" ROUTe:CLOSe <channel> Set channels which need to be closed. <The range is from channel 1 to 10> ROUTe:CLOSe? Query channels which were closed.
Page 159: The Math Operation Command
Set the number of times of scanning. ROUTe:SCAN:STATe? Query a channel numeric which is being scanned. ROUTe:SCAN:SCAN Run SCAN mode ROUTe:SCAN:STEP Run STEP mode C.6 The Math Operation Command CALCulate:FUNCtion {PERCent|AVERage|NULL|LIMit|MXB|DB|DBM} Select the math function. Only one function can be enabled at a time. The default function is percent.
Page 160 Read the minimum value found during the Min/Max operation. The multimeter clears the value when Min/Max is turned on, when the power has been off or a remote interface reset. CALCulate:AVERage:MAXimum? Read the maximum value found during the Min/Max operation. The multimeter clears the value when Min/Max is turned on, when the power has been off or a remote interface reset.
Page 161 CALCulate:LIMit:UPPer? Query the upper limit for the limit testing. CALCulate:MXB:MMFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the value of M. CALCulate:MXB:MMFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the value of M. CALCulate:MXB:MBFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the value of B. CALCulate:MXB:MBFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum] Query the value of B. CALCulate:DB:REFerence {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Store a relative value in the dB Relative Register. You must turn on the math operation before writing to the math register.
Page 162: The Triggering Commands
the readings without storing the individual values. An error will be generated if you attempt to transfer readings to the output buffer using the FETCh? command. DATA:FEED? Query the reading memory state. Return “CALC” or “”. C.7 The Triggering Commands INITiate Change the state of the triggering system from the “idle”...
Page 163: The System-Related Commands
Query the trigger delay time. TRIGger:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON} Disable or enable a automatic trigger delay. The delay is determined by function, range, integration time, and ac filter setting. Specifying a delay time automatically turns off the automatic trigger delay. TRIGger:DELay:AUTO? Query the automatic trigger delay mode. Returns “0” (OFF) or “1” (ON). SAMPle:COUNt {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} Set the number of readings (samples) the multimeter takes per trigger.
Page 164 Measurement readings are sent to the output buffer immediately. DISPlay {OFF|ON} Turn off or on the display. DISPlay? Query the display setting. Returns “0” (OFF) or “1” (ON). DISPlay:TEXT <quoted string> Show a message on the front panel display. The allowed message can be up to 16 characters in the lower row display;...
Page 165: The Scpi Status Pattern
Set to the default identification string. Set to the compatible identification string. SYSTEM:IDNSTR "Manufacturer,Product" Change the multimeter’s identification string, such as the maker’s and the product’s names (be sure to dimension a string variable with at most 39 characters). DATA:POINts? Query the number of readings stored in the multimeter’s internal memory.
Page 166 The Status Byte Register collects and records high-level summary information which is reported in other register groups. With the following diagram illustration, you would make themselves clear for the SCPI status system. In addition, the Standard Event and the Questionable Data Registers have event registers which belong to read-only registers and report defined conditions in a multimeter.
Page 167 About the Status Byte The conditions from other status registers will be reported by the status byte summary register. The query data, waiting in the multimeter’s output buffer, is reported immediatedly through the “message available” in bit 4. Besides, bits are not latched in the summary registers. In addition, to clear an event register will clear the according bits in the status byte summary register.
Page 168 Decimal Definition Value Set to 0. Not Used Set to 0. Not Used Set to 0. Not Used One or more bits are set in the questionable data register (Bits have Questionable Data to be “enabled” in enable register). Data in the DMM’s output buffer is available. Message Available One or more bits are set in the Standard Event Register (Bits have to Standard Event...
Page 169 service. You send the IEEE-488 serial poll message to read the status byte summary register. And to query the summary register will return a decimal value corresponding to the binary-weighted sum of the bits set in the register. And serial poll will clear the “request service bit” automatically in the status byte summary register, but no other bits are affected, i.e.
Page 170 Enable “operation complete” by using the *ESE 1 command. Send the *OPC? command and enter the result to enable synchronization. When bit 5 is set in the status byte summary register, please use a serial poll to check. Then you could set the DMM for an SRQ interrupt by using *SRE 32.
Page 171 register, all conditions will be reported in the standard event summary bit. At the moment, you have to write a decimal value by using the *ESE command to set the enable register mask. ※ Note 1: The errors in the DMM’s error queue except reading the error queue by using SYSTem:ERRor? will be recorded by an error condition (including bits 2, 3, 4 or 5 of the standard event register).
Page 172 You execute a *ESE 0 command. ※ Note: When the DMM is powered on, the standard event enable register won’t be cleared if you have set the DMM previously by using *PSC 0. About the Questionable Data Register The questionable data register reports the quality of the DMM’s measurement results, as well overload conditions and high/low limit test results.
Page 173: Status Reporting Commands
The following conditions will clear the questionable data event register. You execute a *CLS command. You query the event register by using STATus:QUEStionable:EVENt?. The following conditions will clear the questionable data enable register. You turn on the power without using *PSC command. You execute the STATus:PRESet command.
Page 174 *ESE <enable value> Enable bits in the Standard Event enable register. The selected bits are then reported to the Status Byte. *ESE? Query the Standard Event enable register. The multimeter returns a decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits set in the register.
Page 175: Scpi Compliance Information
C.11 SCPI Compliance Information This section encloses a list of commands that are device-specific to the M3500A. Although not included in the 1999.0 version of the SCPI standard, these commands are compliant to the SCPI format and they follow the syntax rules of the standard.
Page 176 PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON} PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO? ZERO:AUTO? CALCulate: PERCent:TARGet {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} PERCent:TARGet? [MINimum|MAXimum] AVERage:MINimum? AVERage:MAXimum? AVERage:AVERage? AVERage:COUNt? NULL:OFFSet {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} NULL:OFFSet? [MINimum|MAXimum] LIMit:LOWer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} LIMit:LOWer? [MINimum|MAXimum] LIMit:UPPer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} LIMit:UPPer? [MINimum|MAXimum] MXB:MMFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} MXB:MMFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum] MXB:MBFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} MXB:MBFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum] DB:REFerence {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} DB:REFerence? [MINimum|MAXimum] DBM:REFerence {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum} DBM:REFerence? [MINimum|MAXimum] CONFigure: CONTinuity DIODe...
Page 177: Ieee-488 Compliance Information
C.12 IEEE-488 Compliance Information IEEE-488.2 Common Commands *CLS *ESE <enable value> *ESE? *ESR? *IDN? *OPC *OPC? *PSC {0|1} *PSC? *RST *SRE <enable value> *SRE? *STB? *TRG Dedicated Hardware Lines Addressed Commands Attention Interface Clear Remote Enable Service Request Interrupt Device Clear...
Page 178 End or Identify Message Terminator Group Execute Trigger Go to Local Local Lock-Out Selected Device Clear Serial Poll Disable Serial Poll Enable Using Device Clear to Halt Measurements Device clear is an IEEE-488 low-level bus message which can be used to halt measurements in progress.
Page 179 (31), the multimeter will send readings over the RS-232 interface when in the local mode. D. About Application Programs This section provides a brief description for each M3500A sample collection. Visual Basic Learn how to create and use ARRAY IOUtils components, controls, data access, and more with the Visual Basic sample applications.
Page 180 How to: Change the Startup Object for an Application The Startup Object property for a project defines the entry point to be called when the application loads; generally this is set to either the main form in your application or to the Sub Main procedure that should run when the application starts.
Page 181 Dim desc As String * VI_FIND_BUFLEN Dim nList As Long Dim ret As Long Dim readin As String * 64 stat = viOpenDefaultRM(dfltRM) If (stat < VI_SUCCESS) Then 'Rem Error initializing VISA ... exiting MsgBox "USBTMC resource not found.", vbExclamation, "M3500 multimeter device test"...
Page 182 stat = viClose(fList) Exit Sub End If Rem send Clear command '*CLS'-- Clear M3500 status register stat = viWrite(sesn, "*CLS", 4, ret) If (stat < VI_SUCCESS) Then MsgBox "System command error. (*CLS)", vbExclamation, "M3500 multimeter device test" stat = viClose(fList) Exit Sub End If Rem send measure command -- Set to 0.1 volt dc range...
Page 183 stat = viClose(fList) Exit Sub End If stat = viClose(sesn) stat = viClose(fList) stat = viClose(dfltRM) MsgBox "End of Job." End Sub Using CONFigure with a Math Operation The following example uses CONFigure with the dBm math operation. The CONFigure command gives you a little more programming flexibility than the MEASure? command.
Page 184 Dim stat As ViStatus Dim dfltRM As ViSession Dim sesn As ViSession Dim fList As ViFindList Dim desc As String * VI_FIND_BUFLEN Dim nList As Long Dim ret As Long Dim readin As String * 128 Dim i As Integer ' Array index stat = viOpenDefaultRM(dfltRM) If (stat <...
Page 185 Exit Sub End If Rem send command -- Set kM3500 to 1 amp ac range stat = viWrite(sesn, "CONF:VOLT:AC 1,0.001", 20, ret) If (stat < VI_SUCCESS) Then MsgBox "System command error.", vbExclamation, "M3500 multimeter device test" stat = viClose(fList) Exit Sub End If Rem send command -- Select 200 Hz (fast) ac filter stat = viWrite(sesn, "DET:BAND 200", 12, ret)
Page 186 Sleep (3000) ' wait for math processing Rem fetch the measure data stat = viRead(sesn, readin, 128, ret) If (stat < VI_SUCCESS) Then MsgBox "Read in data error.", vbExclamation, "M3500 multimeter device test" stat = viClose(fList) Exit Sub End If Rem set to local mode stat = viWrite(sesn, "system:local", 12, ret) If (stat <...
Page 187 // devquery.cpp : Defines the entry point for the console application. // Call the NI-VISA library visa32.dll #include "stdafx.h" #include "visa.h" //standard include for a Microsoft Visual C++ project #include "stdio.h" #include "windows.h" void main(int argc, char* argv[]) // TODO: Add your control notification handler code here HINSTANCE hUSBTMCLIB;...
Page 188 multimeter device test", MB_OK); return; // Link the libraries signed long (__stdcall *PviOpenDefaultRM_usb) (unsigned long *vi); signed long (__stdcall *PviFindRsrc_usb) (unsigned long sesn, char *expr, unsigned long *vi, unsigned long *retCnt, char far desc[]); signed long (__stdcall *PviOpen_usb) (unsigned long sesn, char *name, unsigned long mode, unsigned long...
Page 189 unsigned long, unsigned long*))GetProcAddress(hUSBTMCLIB, (LPCSTR)"viOpen"); PviWrite_usb = (signed long (__stdcall*)(unsigned long, unsigned char*, unsigned long, unsigned long*))GetProcAddress(hUSBTMCLIB, (LPCSTR)"viWrite"); PviRead_usb = (signed long (__stdcall*)(unsigned long, unsigned char*, unsigned long, unsigned long*))GetProcAddress(hUSBTMCLIB, (LPCSTR)"viRead"); PviSetAttribute_usb = (signed long (__stdcall*)(unsigned long, unsigned long, unsigned long))GetProcAddress(hUSBTMCLIB, (LPCSTR)"viSetAttribute"); if (PviOpenDefaultRM_usb == NULL || PviFindRsrc_usb == NULL ||...
Page 190 PviClose_usb(m_defaultRM_usbtmc); hUSBTMCLIB = NULL; m_defaultRM_usbtmc = 0; MessageBox(NULL, "USBTMC resource found.", "M3500 multimeter device test", MB_OK); return; else // Find the USBTMC device USB[0-9]*::0x05E6::0xM3500::?*INSTR ( Hex ) status PviFindRsrc_usb (m_defaultRM_usbtmc, "USB[0-9]*::0x05E6::0xM3500::?*INSTR", &m_findList_usbtmc, &m_nCount, instrDescriptor); if (status < 0L) Find USBTMC device USB[0-9]*::0x05E6::0xM3500::?*INSTR ( Dec ) status...
Page 191 PviOpen_usb(m_defaultRM_usbtmc, instrDescriptor, &m_instr_usbtmc); status PviSetAttribute_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, VI_ATTR_TMO_VALUE, m_Timeout); if (!hUSBTMCLIB) printf("M3500 device connect failed.\n"); return; // Write command "*IDN?" and read the M3500 identification string len = 64; pStrout = new char[len]; ZeroMemory(pStrout, len); strcpy(pStrout, "*idn?"); status = PviWrite_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, (unsigned char *)pStrout, 6, &nWritten);...
Page 192 if (hUSBTMCLIB) status = PviRead_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, pStrin, len, &nRead); if (nRead > 0) for (len=0; len < (long) nRead; len++) buffer[len] = pStrin[len]; buffer[nRead] = '\0'; printf(" input : %s\n\n",buffer); // Set sample count to 1 strcpy(pStrout, "SAMP:COUN 1"); status = PviWrite_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, (unsigned char *)pStrout, 12, &nWritten);...
Page 193 // Fetch the M3500 measure value ( screen value ) // Set Voltage DC measure strcpy(pStrout, "CONF:VOLT:DC 0.1,0.1"); status = PviWrite_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, (unsigned char *)pStrout, 21, &nWritten); Sleep(1000); // Send read command strcpy(pStrout, "READ?"); status = PviWrite_usb(m_instr_usbtmc, (unsigned char *)pStrout, 6, &nWritten);...
Page 194 FreeLibrary (hUSBTMCLIB); hUSBTMCLIB = NULL; return;...
Page 195 Conformity with the following product standards: Manufacturer Name: ARRAY Corp. Manufacturer Address: 5F-1, 286-9, Hsin-Ya Rd, 80673, Kaohsiung, Taiwan Declaration of Product Product Name: 61/2 Digit Digital Multimeter Model Number: M3500A Product Accessories: This declaration applies to all accessories of the above product(s). EMC: EN61326-1:2006...

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