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Racal Instruments 3152A Manual

Precision pll synthesizer
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PRECISION PLL SYNTHESIZER
Tel: (800) 722-2528, (949) 859-8999; Fax: (949) 859-7139
5730 Northwest Parkway Suite 700, San Antonio, TX 78249
Tel: +33 (0)1 39 23 22 22; Fax: +33 (0)1 39 23 22 25
29-31 Cobham Road, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7PF, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 872800; Fax: +44 (0) 1202 870810
Racal Instruments Group Limited, Technologie Park, D-51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
PUBLICATION DATE: November 30, 2005
Copyright 2001 by Racal Instruments, Inc. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved.
This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.
MODEL 3152A
PUBLICATION NO. 980867
RACAL INSTRUMENTS
United States
(Corporate Headquarters and Service Center)
4 Goodyear Street, Irvine, CA 92618
Tel: (210) 699-6799; Fax: (210) 699-8857
Europe
(European Headquarters and Service Center)
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Via Milazzo 25, 20092 Cinisello B, Milan, Italy
Tel: +39 (0)2 6123 901; Fax: +39 (0)2 6129 3606
Tel: +49 2204 844205; Fax: +49 2204 844219
info@racalinstruments.com
sales@racalinstruments.com
helpdesk@racalinstruments.com
http://www.racalinstruments.com
info@racalinstruments.de
www.racalinstruments.de

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Summary of Contents for Racal Instruments 3152A

  • Page 1 PUBLICATION DATE: November 30, 2005 Copyright 2001 by Racal Instruments, Inc. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.

  • Page 2: Warranty Statement

    Authorization is required from Racal Instruments before you send us your product for service or calibration. Call your nearest Racal Instruments support facility. A list is located on the last page of this manual. If you are unsure where to call, contact Racal Instruments, Inc. Customer Support Department in Irvine, California, USA at 1-800-722-3262 or 1-949-859-8999 or via fax at 1-949-859-7139.
  • Page 3 Racal Instruments product could create a situation where personal injury or death could occur. Should Buyer purchase Racal Instruments product for...
  • Page 4 FOR YOUR SAFETY Before undertaking any troubleshooting, maintenance or exploratory procedure, read carefully the WARNINGS and CAUTION notices. This equipment contains voltage hazardous to human life and safety, and is capable of inflicting personal injury. If this instrument is to be powered from the AC line (mains) through an autotransformer, ensure the common connector is connected to the neutral (earth pole) of the power supply.
  • Page 6 This page was left intentionally blank.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    3152A User Manual Table of Contents Chapter 1 ........................1-1 GETTING STARTED ........................1-1 What’s In This Chapter......................1-1 Introduction..........................1-2 Options ..........................1-3 Safety Considerations ......................1-4 Supplied Accessories ......................1-4 Specifications .........................1-5 Functional Description......................1-5 Input and Output Connectors ....................1-5 Main Output..........................1-5 SYNC Output..........................1-5 External Clock Input .......................1-6 PM Input ..........................1-8...
  • Page 8 Sweep Waveforms ......................1-12 Output State........................1-12 Backplane Synchronization ....................1-12 Front-Panel PLL........................1-12 Frequency Counter ......................1-13 Phase Modulation ......................1-13 Filter..........................1-13 Front Panel Indicators.......................1-14 Programming The Model 3152A..................1-14 Chapter 2 ........................2-1 CONFIGURING the INSTRUMENT..................2-1 Installation Overview ......................2-1 Unpacking and Initial Inspection.....................2-1 Safety Precautions .........................2-1 Performance Checks......................2-2 Grounding Requirements .......................2-2...
  • Page 9 3152A User Manual Chapter 3 ........................3-1 USING THE INSTRUMENT......................3-1 Overview ..........................3-1 Output Termination.........................3-1 Input/Output Protection ......................3-1 Power On/Reset Defaults.......................3-1 What To Do Now ........................3-2 Using the APPLy Command ...................3-4 Output Configuration Commands...................3-8 Selecting an Output Function Type ..................3-8 Selecting a Standard Function Shape ................3-9 Changing the Frequency and Sample Clock ..............3-9...
  • Page 10 3152A User Manual Gated Mode ........................3-21 Burst Mode ........................3-22 Selecting the Trigger Source....................3-23 Using the Internal Trigger Generator ................3-23 Selecting the Trigger Slope ....................3-24 Using the Trigger Delay ....................3-24 Selecting the Trigger Level ....................3-25 Using the Soft Trigger.......................3-25 Generating Arbitrary Waveforms ..................3-25 What Are Arbitrary Waveforms? ..................3-26...
  • Page 11 3152A User Manual PLL Commands........................3-48 Using the Frequency Counter ....................3-49 Using the Phase Modulation Input ..................3-49 Amplitude Modulation Commands ..................3-50 Using Sweep Mode ......................3-51 System-Related Commands ....................3-53 Chapter 4 ........................4-1 SCPI AND HS COMMAND REFERENCE................4-1 What’s In This Chapter......................4-1 Introduction to the SCPI Language ..................4-1 Command Format ........................4-2...
  • Page 12 3152A User Manual SCPI and HS Command Summary ..................4-8 Output Configuration Command Summary ................4-14 Standard Waveform Command Summary ................4-16 Arbitrary Waveform, Sequence, and Shared Memory Command Summary......4-17 Modulation Command Summary..................4-18 Trigger Command Summary ....................4-19 Backplane Inter-Module Phase Synchronization Command Summary........4-19 Front-Panel PLL Command Summary .................4-20...
  • Page 13 3152A User Manual Repair and Replacement......................5-3 Performance Checks......................5-4 Environmental Conditions....................5-4 Warm-Up Period .........................5-4 Initial Instrument Setting .....................5-4 Recommended Test Equipment ..................5-5 Performance Check Procedures ....................5-5 Frequency Accuracy ......................5-5 Amplitude Accuracy ......................5-6 DC Offset Characteristics ....................5-7 Squarewave Characteristics ....................5-8 Sine Characteristics......................5-9 Sine Flatness ........................5-10...
  • Page 14 3152A User Manual Power-Up Tests ........................5-20 Self-Test ...........................5-21 Main Board Circuit Checkout ....................5-21 Power Supply Checkout ....................5-21 CPU and VXI ASIC Checkout...................5-22 Output Amplifier and Amplitude Control Checkout ............5-23 Clock Synthesizer Checkout.....................5-24 Sequence Generator Checkout ..................5-25 PLL Checkout ........................5-27 Engine Board Circuit Checkout..................5-28 Engine Board Checkout....................5-28...
  • Page 15 3152A User Manual Swept Waveforms ........................14 PLL Characteristics .........................16 PM Characteristics ........................18 Appendix B ..........................1 tEKTRONIX VX4750 EMULATION....................1...
  • Page 16 3152A User Manual List of Figures Figure 1-1, Model 3152A ........................ 1-1 Figure 1-2, 3152A Front Panel......................1-7 Figure 1-3, Segment 1 - Sin(x)/x Waveform ................. 1-11 Figure 1-4, Segment 2 - Sine Waveform ..................1-11 Figure 1-5, Segment 3 - Pulse Waveform..................1-11 Figure 1-6, Sequenced Waveforms ....................
  • Page 17 Table 3-1, Default Conditions After Power On, RESet or *RST............3-2 Table 3-2, Peak to Peak Amplitude and Offset Ranges ..............3-3 Table 4-1, VXIbus Model 3152A SCPI Command Summary............4-9 Table 5-1, CPU and VXI Interface Checkout Procedure............... 5-23 Table 5-2, Output Amplifier and Amplitude Control Checkout Procedure........
  • Page 18 3152A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank.

  • Page 19: Chapter 1

    3152A front panel connectors and indicators. NOTE: This manual provides a complete description of all features and options available with the Model 3152A; however, some items described in the following paragraphs may not be installed in your instrument. Figure 1-1, Model 3152A Racal Instruments ©...

  • Page 20: Introduction

    The Model 3152A is also capable of generating arbitrary waveforms with sampling rates to 100 MHz at 12 bits of vertical resolution. Despite its small size, the Model 3152A offer many features and functions such as VXIplug&play compatibility, backplane phase synchronization, front-panel...

  • Page 21: Options

    The Model 3152A is fully programmable using SCPI commands and syntax. There are two ways to program the Model 3152A, the first being low level programming of each individual parameter. The second alternative is to use the VXIplug&play soft front panel for high level programming.

  • Page 22: Safety Considerations

    407508-213 - Model 3152A - 100MS/s Waveform Synthesizer, w/512K RAM, 1ppm, Tektronix VX4750 Emulation The 512K RAM option designates the memory size supplied with the Model 3152A. The standard memory size is 512K (524288 words). With the standard memory size, 523288 point...

  • Page 23: Specifications

    Description and output connectors, operating modes, output type, output state, synchronization, filters and front panel indicators. The Model 3152A has 5 BNC connectors on its front panel: main Input and Output output, SYNC output, phase modulation input, external clock Connectors input and the trigger/PLL input.

  • Page 24: External Clock Input

    3152A User Manual The External Clock Input is available for those applications External Clock required to run the complete system off the same clock. Input Normally, this input is disabled. When enabled under program control the clock at this input replaces the internal clock...

  • Page 25: Figure 1-2, 3152A Front Panel

    3152A User Manual Figure 1-2, 3152A Front Panel Racal Instruments © 2001 Getting Started 1-7...

  • Page 26: Pm Input

    In PLL mode, the trigger input is used as phase reference input. In gated mode, the trigger input is level sensitive, i.e., the Model 3152A output is enabled when the level is high and idle when the level is low. Level sensitivity may be programmed for the trigger input.

  • Page 27: Burst Mode

    The burst mode is an extension of the triggered mode where the Burst Mode Model 3152A can be armed to output a counted number of waveforms following a triggered signal. Like trigger mode, burst can be triggered from a front panel BNC connector, a VXIbus backplane TTLTRG<n>...

  • Page 28: Standard Waveforms

    3152A User Manual The Model 3152A generates waveforms from a memory that has Standard to be loaded before the waveforms can be can generated. Waveforms There are 512K points of memory standard, A smaller memory, 64K version is also available as an option. 1000 points from this memory are allocated for standard waveforms.

  • Page 29: Figure 1-3, Segment 1 - Sin(X)/X Waveform

    3152A User Manual Figure 1-3, Segment 1 - Sin(x)/x Waveform Figure 1-4, Segment 2 - Sine Waveform Figure 1-5, Segment 3 - Pulse Waveform The following sequence was made of segment 2 repeated twice, segment 1 repeated four times and segment 3 repeated twice.

  • Page 30: Sweep Waveforms

    The slave modules may be configured to have phase offsets within the range of 0 to 360 . There is no need to install multiple Model 3152A modules in adjacent slots to be able to phase synchronize modules.

  • Page 31: Frequency Counter

    3152A User Manual When placed in this mode, the model 3152A scans the TRIG IN connector for a valid signal. Once sensed, the model 3152A measures its frequency and centers its lock-in range around this frequency. The model 3152A then locks automatically on the frequency of the external signal.

  • Page 32: Front Panel Indicators

    Model 3152A stops communication. The ACCESS LED (Amber) illuminates each time a command has been received by the Model 3152A. This light remains on during shared memory data transfer. The PLL ON LED is off during normal operation. In PLL mode,...

  • Page 33: Chapter 2

    Chapter 2 CONFIGURING THE INSTRUMENT This chapter contains information and instructions necessary to Installation prepare the Model 3152A for operation. Details are provided for Overview initial inspection, grounding safety requirements, repacking instructions for storage or shipment, logical address selection and installation information.

  • Page 34: Performance Checks

    3152A User Manual WARNING For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instrument parts while power is applied to the circuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from entire test system before connecting cables jumpers, installing...

  • Page 35: Long Term Storage Or Repackaging For Shipment

    3152A User Manual WARNING Do not make an attempt to float the output from ground as it may damage the Model 3152A and your equipment. Long Term If the instrument is to be stored for a long period of time or shipped immediately, proceed as directed below.

  • Page 36: Logical Address Selection

    Model 3152 and 3152-S-1619. For those customers Selection wishing to use the 3152A as a direct replacement for the 3152 or 3152-S-1619, the 3152A has an emulation mode capability.. In this mode of operation, the 3152A will identify itself as a 3152 or 3152-S-1619 and act exactly like the selected model.

  • Page 37: Figure 2-1, Set The Logical Address

    3152A User Manual (LOGIC 0) (LOGIC 1) SIDE VIEW OF SWITCH S1 Figure 2-1, Set The Logical Address Racal Instruments © 2001 Configuring the Instruments 2-5...

  • Page 38: Installation

    3152A User Manual Installation The instrument can be installed in any slot except slot 0 in a VXIbus mainframe. When inserting the instrument into the mainframe, it should be gently rocked back and forth to seat the connectors into the backplane receptacle. The ejectors will be at right angles to the front panel when the instrument is properly seated into the backplane.

  • Page 39: Using The Instrument

    Appendix A to determine the level of protection associated with each input or output connector. At Power On or as a result of a software reset, the Model 3152A Power On/Reset defaults to the conditions shown in Table 3-1. A complete list of Defaults all parameters and their default values is given in Chapter 4.

  • Page 40: What To Do Now

    2 MHz, program the amplitude to 5 V and offset to 2.5 V. /* Reset the Model 3152A to its default condition as listed in Table 3-1.*/ :RESet; /* Change the output waveform to square. Note that there is no need to use the FUNC:MODE command as the default value after RESet is FIXed.*/...

  • Page 41: Table 3-2, Peak To Peak Amplitude And Offset Ranges

    For example, a FIXed mode sine wave with a 800mV peak to peak amplitude will force the 3152A into attenuator range 2 as long as the offset voltage setting does not exceed the maximum calculated by the equation above (400mV). But, if a 2V offset is needed, the 3152A will be forced into attenuator range 1 because 1.6V will be exceeded.

  • Page 42: Using The Apply Command

    3152A User Manual /* Turn the main output on.*/ :OUTPut ON; /*Turn the SYNC output on, if required.*/ :OUTPut:SYNC ON; If the above commands are executed correctly, a square waveform will be seen on your oscilloscope. The APPLy command provides a high level method of...
  • Page 43 3152A User Manual The synthesizer returns a string that contains all the parameters associated with the square function similar to the following string: “1.000000e+6,2.000,0.000,50" The command: APPLy: SINusoid {<frequency>,<amplitude>,<offset>, <phase>,<power>} programs the synthesizer to output a sine waveform with frequency, amplitude, offset, start phase and power parameters.
  • Page 44 3152A User Manual The command: APPLy: RAMP {<frequency>,<amplitude>,<offset>, <delay>, <rise_time>,<fall_time>} programs the synthesizer to output a ramp waveform with frequency, amplitude, offset, delay, rise time, and fall time parameters. The default settings for these functions are: 1 MHz, 5 Vp-p, 0 V, 0%, 10% and 10%.
  • Page 45 2 MHz, programs amplitude to 5 V and offset to 2.5 V. It also changes the square wave duty cycle parameter to 25%. /* Reset the Model 3152A to its default condition as listed in Table 3-1.*/ :RESet;...

  • Page 46: Output Configuration Commands

    CAUTION Placing the 3152A in Sweep Mode overwrites any waveforms, segments or sequences that are currently stored in 3152A memory. Be sure to back up any critical data stored in the 3152A before entering Sweep Mode. Racal Instruments © 2001...

  • Page 47: Selecting A Standard Function Shape

    3152A User Manual The query: FUNCtion:MODE? queries the output function type and returns either FIX, USER, SEQ or SWE. Use the following command to select a standard output function: Selecting a FUNCtion: SHAPe {SINusoid | TRIangle | SQUare | Standard...

  • Page 48: Selecting The Sample Clock Source

    ECLTrg0 selects a sample clock that is available on the backplane. Note that ECLTrg0 is always the active sample clock source when the Model 3152A is set to operate as a slave in phase synchronization mode. The query:...

  • Page 49: Programming The Output Amplitude And Offset

    3152A User Manual Use the following command to program the peak-to-peak Programming the amplitude for the generated waveform. Output Amplitude VOLTage {<amplitude>|MINimum|MAXimum} and Offset MIN selects the smallest amplitude. MAX selects the largest amplitude. The default amplitude is 5.00 V (into 50Ω).

  • Page 50: Activating The Backplane Ecltrg And Ttltrg Lines

    The query: OUTPut:FILTer:FREQuency? queries the currently selected filter setting and returns 20 MHz, 25 MHz or 50 MHz. The Model 3152A can transmit and receive signals on the Activating the VXIbus ECLTRG and TTLTRG lines. Backplane Use the following command to activate one of two backplane...

  • Page 51: Assigning The Validating Source For Ttltrg

    3152A User Manual Use the following command to activate one of eight backplane TTLTRG lines: OUTPut: TTLTrg<n> { OFF | ON} <n> designates the activated trigger line and 0 through 7 are available. ON enables the selected trigger line. The trigger source for this line can be selected with the TRIG:SOUR command.

  • Page 52: Enabling The Main Output

    In the OFF position, the output connector is disconnected from the output amplifier by means of a mechanical relay. Ensure that voltage is not applied to the main output connector when the Model 3152A output state is programmed to ON. The query: OUTPut? queries the state of the main output and returns "0"...

  • Page 53: Assigning The Source For The Sync Output

    This command is a useful alternative to the BIT sync source, especially when the bit pulse is too narrow. It is also helpful when using the 3152A to emulate the sync pulse of another instrument that it is replacing in a test system. The query:...

  • Page 54: Selecting The Sync Position

    3152A User Manual The SYNC output can be programmed to output the SYNC Selecting the signal at any point along the output waveform. Use the following SYNC Position command to select the SYNC output position: OUTPut:SYNC:POSition[:POINt] <value> The SYNC position can be selected from point 0 to the last point of the active waveform.

  • Page 55: Using The Built-In Standard Waveforms

    3152A User Manual The Standard Waveform commands control the various Using the Built-In parameters of the active Standard Waveform. Standard Standard waveform commands operate in a similar fashion for each of the Waveforms Standard Waveforms. To simplify the description of this set of commands, only the standard waveform commands for the PULSe function are described.
  • Page 56 3152A User Manual For the Positive EXPonential: ⎡ ⎤ − − ⎢ ⎥ ⎣ ⎦ Where A = Amplitude m = Current point (I..N) N = Total number of points t = Time constant set by user For the Negative EXPonential: −...
  • Page 57 3152A User Manual The selected standard waveform will be available at the output connector only after the FUNC:MODE FIX command has been executed. With the FUNC:SHAP PULS selection, parameters for the PULSe function will effect the output waveform when modified.

  • Page 58: Selecting An Operating Mode

    Triggered, Gated and Burst. The selected waveform is repeated Operating Mode continuously when the instrument is set to operate in Continuous mode. In this mode, the Model 3152A does not require a trigger source to stimulate its output cycles. The default operating mode of the instrument is continuous.

  • Page 59: Gated Mode

    INITitiate: CONTinuous? queries the instrument operating mode parameter and returns "0" (OFF) or "1" (ON). The Model 3152A can be set to operate in Gated mode only Gated Mode after the INIT:CONT OFF command has been received. The output remains at a certain DC level as long as the TRIG IN signal from the front panel remains inactive.

  • Page 60: Burst Mode

    Note that the Model 3152A cannot operate in Sequence and Burst modes simultanously. Observe the limitations of the trigger signal as listed in the specification section of this manual. To place the Model 3152A in Burst mode, use the following commands: INITitiate:CONTinuous OFF TRIGger: BURSt ON TRIGger: COUNt <counts>...

  • Page 61: Selecting The Trigger Source

    TRIGger:SOURce: ADVance {EXTernal | INTernal | TTLTrg<n>} EXT is the default trigger source for the Model 3152A. Select the TTLT<n> option with <n> ranging from 0 to 7 to use one of the TTLTRG lines available on the backplane.

  • Page 62: Selecting The Trigger Slope

    TRIGger: SLOPe {POSitive | NEGative} Positive going transitions will trigger the Model 3152A when the POS option is selected. Negative transitions will trigger the Model 3152A when the NEG option is selected. POS is the default slope. The query: TRIGger:SLOPe? queries the trigger slope and returns POS or NEG.

  • Page 63: Selecting The Trigger Level

    Volts. There are a number of commands that are available to trigger Using the Soft the Model 3152A. The soft trigger command is one of them. To Trigger use the soft trigger command, place the instrument in the TRIG:SOUR EXT mode.

  • Page 64: What Are Arbitrary Waveforms

    An explanation of how to manage arbitrary waveform memory is given in the following paragraphs. The Model 3152A's arbitrary memory consists of a fixed length of Arbitrary Memory 524,288 words. 1000 words are always reserved for the built-in Management standard waveforms.

  • Page 65: Memory Management Commands

    Arbitrary memory can be divided into smaller segments; up to Memory 4096 different arbitrary waveforms can be generated with the Management Model 3152A. The length of each segment is left totally to the user’s discretion. To partition the arbitrary waveform memory, Commands use the following command: TRACe: DEFine <segment_number>,<length>...

  • Page 66: Loading Arbitrary Waveforms

    Next, make segment 8 the active segment. The active segment must be selected because as waveforms are loaded, the Model 3152A must be notified as to where to place the data it receives. Select the active segment using the following command: TRACe: SELect 8 The next step is to transfer data to the active segment.

  • Page 67: Figure 3-1, Definite Length Arbitrary Block Data Format

    Data Format is demonstrated in Figure 3-1. Figure 3-1, Definite Length Arbitrary Block Data Format 16-bits of data are sent to the Model 3152A although only 12 bits are required to generate the waveform. The order of bytes and bits and their values are shown in Figure 3-2.

  • Page 68: Figure 3-3, 16-Bit Waveform Data Format

    WAVEFORM POINT DATA Figure 3-3, 16-Bit Waveform Data Format NOTE The Model 3152A operates in interlaced mode where two memory cells generate one byte of data. Segment size can be programmed in even- numbers only and the generator can accept binary blocks of data that are in multiples of 4 only.

  • Page 69: High Speed Segment Downloads

    3152A User Manual In cases where large numbers of segments must be defined in High Speed 3152A memory (e.g., >50), for higher overall throughput (e.g., Segment 5x-10x improvement) it is recommended that SEGM:DATA be used instead of a series of TRAC:DEF commands (described in Downloads the above section).

  • Page 70: Figure 3-4, High Speed Segment Downloads

    3152A User Manual The Address field of the 5-byte segment table structure is calculated as follows: 1. The start address for segment 1 is 0x1F4. 2. Compute the start address for segment n (where n > 1) using the following equation:...

  • Page 71: Reversing Byte Order

    The difference is that the data will be loaded much more quickly and efficiently Binary data is sent to the Model 3152A in byte-high byte-low Reversing Byte order. This order can be reversed using the following command:...

  • Page 72: Selecting Binary Download Forma

    This mode should be used with caution since an incorrect download can cause unexpected operation of the 3152A. It also can allow the user to create custom sync pulse patterns. See Loading Arbitrary Waveforms for more information on waveform formats.
  • Page 73 READ or WRITE. The command:. SMEMory:STATe {OFF | ON} places the Model 3152A in the shared memory state when ON is selected. After this, the instrument cannot accept normal commands. Data must be sent to the synthesizer using shared memory access.

  • Page 74: 16-Bit Shared

    3152A User Manual The *OPC? Response is set to 1 when the Model 3152A has transferred memory access from the internal CPU to shared memory. This typically takes a few milliseconds but depends on the size of the memory transfer.
  • Page 75 3152A User Manual WARNING Changing modes from NORM to USER and vice- versa is destructive to the waveform memory. This command has an affect on the segment table and SYNC and break point bits location. Other parameters, such as amplitude, offset and sample clock frequency are not affected by this command.
  • Page 76 The bits are described below: PLL Bit – This bit is a don’t care unless the 3152A will be used in PLL mode to lock to an external analog (or digital) signal. This bit represents the phase shift of the waveform with respect to the input trigger point.

  • Page 77: Sequences

    3152A User Manual Sequenced waveforms are a means of adding more capability Sequences to the synthesizer. The Model 3152A can link 4096 segments and loop on each segment up to 10 times. Generating Sequenced Waveforms Sequenced waveforms are made of a number of arbitrary What Are waveforms that can be linked and repeated in various manners.

  • Page 78: Figure 3-6, Sine Waveform Loaded Into Segment 2

    3152A User Manual Figure 3-6, Sine Waveform Loaded Into Segment 2 Figure 3-7, Pulse Waveform Loaded Into Segment 3 Figure 3-8 shows a sequence of waveforms that were stored in three different memory segments. Note that segment number 2 is generated first and repeated twice, segment 3 follows once and then segment 1 is repeated four times.
  • Page 79 It is possible to have only one step in a sequence but the output will look like a continuous waveform. If only one step is specified and the Model 3152A is placed in Triggered mode, the output will behave as it would in Burst mode where the repeat number replaces the burst count parameter.

  • Page 80: High Speed Sequence Downloads

    In cases where large numbers of sequence steps must be High Speed downloaded to the 3152A (e.g., >50), for higher overall Sequence throughput (e.g., 5x-10x improvement) it is recommended that SEQ:DATA be used instead of a series of SEQ:DEF commands Downloads (described in the above section).

  • Page 81: Figure 3-9, Sequenced Downloads

    3152A User Manual The byte ordering of the Segment Number section is: High byte, low byte. There is an offset between the Segment Number above and the actual segment number. The above structure ranges from 0 to 4095. The corresponding segments are selected as ranging from 1 through 4096 with the TRAC:SEL command.

  • Page 82: Triggered Sequence Advance

    Triggered mode. In Triggered Sequence Advance mode, the Model Sequence Advance 3152A idles between steps until a valid trigger signal is sensed. The trigger source can be selected from a number of options: • An external trigger signal applied to the front panel TRIG IN connector •...

  • Page 83: Triggered Sequence Advance Commands

    Second, place the instrument in Triggered Advance mode using the INIT:CONT OFF command. To place the Model Commands 3152A in Triggered Sequence Advance mode, use the following command: SEQuence:ADVance {AUTO | TRIGger} AUTO specifies the normal continuous advance and TRIGger places the instrument in Triggered Sequence Advance mode.
  • Page 84 PHASe:LOCK ON PHASe:SOURce MAST The above Model 3152A is now programmed as master. Next, program the other Model 3152A modules as slaves (SLAVe) and program their phase offset in relation to the master. As an example, program the second and third Model 3152A with 120 and 240 degree offsets, respectively.

  • Page 85: Front-Panel Phase Synchronization

    A front-panel LED illuminates when the reference signal is valid and the Model 3152A locks on the external signal. After lock has been achieved, you may shift the phase between the...

  • Page 86: Pll Commands

    3152A User Manual In PLL mode, the Model 3152A can be used as a slave only. PLL Commands Use the following commands to program the Model 3152A to lock to an external reference. PLL:LOCK ON This command places the Model 3152A in PLL mode. If no valid reference signal is applied to the trigger input, the PLL ON LED remains off.

  • Page 87: Using The Frequency Counter

    PLL:LOCK ON If no valid reference signal is applied to the trigger input, the PLL ON LED remains off. If you feel that the 3152A should lock and it does not, do the following: Check that trigger level is adjusted correctly. You may change trigger level settings using the TRIG:LEV command.

  • Page 88: Amplitude Modulation Commands

    3152A User Manual Arbitrary waveforms stored in memory segments are used as Amplitude modulating envelopes in Amplitude Modulation mode. The Modulation modulated carrier is always a sine waveform with its frequency Commands set in points. The first step in modulating a waveform is to...

  • Page 89: Using Sweep Mode

    3152A User Manual The key to using Sweep Mode efficiently is to place the 3152A Using Sweep Mode into a mode other than SWEep (FIX, USER or SEQ) while sending the 3152A the sweep parameters. Once the parameters are set, switch the 3152A to sweep mode using the...
  • Page 90 Choose a frequency between the specified STARt and STOP as the location for the marker. During each sweep cycle, the 3152A will output a marker pulse in synchronization when the 3152A sweeps through the marker frequency.

  • Page 91: System-Related Commands

    (always "0") and the fourth field is the firmware version number. The command returns "Racal Instruments,3152A,0,1.0". (Assuming the firmware revision is "0") The commands: RESet Racal Instruments ©...
  • Page 92 VXIbus states, VXI address or SCPI command set. The query: *OPT? queries the waveform memory length installed in the 3152A. The response is “1" for 512K. Racal Instruments © 2001 Using The Instrument 3-54...

  • Page 93: Scpi And Hs Command Reference

    Instruments (SCPI) convention rules and syntax are explained in detail. Table 4-1 lists all SCPI commands used for programming the Model 3152A. The command summary for each SCPI model is also included in this chapter. This chapter teaches you how to use SCPI commands to control functions, modes, waveforms and other aspects of the instrument.

  • Page 94: Command Format

    3152A User Manual Braces ( { } ) Enclose parameters within a command string Triangle Brackets ( < > ) Substitute a value for the enclosed parameter Vertical Bar ( | ) Separate multiple parameter choices Bold Typeface Letters Designate factory default values...

  • Page 95: Command Separator

    3152A User Manual Some parameters are enclosed in square brackets ([ ]). The brackets indicate that the parameter is optional and can be omitted. The brackets are not sent with the command string. If an optional parameter is not specified, the synthesizer uses a default value.

  • Page 96: Querying Parameter Setting

    3152A User Manual Querying Query the current value of most parameters by adding a question mark ( ? ) to the command. For example, the following Parameter Setting command sets the output function to square: SOUR:FUNC:SHAP SQR Query the output function by executing:...

  • Page 97: Numeric Parameters

    Arbitrary block parameters are used for loading waveforms into Arbitrary Block the synthesizer's memory. Depending on which option is Parameters installed, the Model 3152A can accept binary blocks up to 523288 bytes. The following command uses an arbitrary block parameter that is loaded as binary data: TRAC:DATA#564000<binary_block>...

  • Page 98: Alternative Command Set (Hs Commands)

    HS mode. Likewise, there is no HS command that corresponds to the command INSTrument:MODE FAST. In HS mode, the instrument accepts HS commands only. SCPI commands sent when the 3152A is in HS mode will generate errors. Likewise, in NORMal (SCPI) mode, HS commands will not be accepted.

  • Page 99: Rules For Using Hs Command Mode

    (?) instead of parameters to query or “get” a setting from the instrument. For example, you can query the frequency, amplitude and offset settings of the 3152A by sending the query: 0300C? At the end of an HS command string, terminate the string with the \a character (0xA).

  • Page 100: Scpi And Hs Command Summary

    3152A User Manual Table 4-1 summarizes the complete SCPI command tree along SCPI and HS with the alternative HS command set available for programming Command of the synthesizer. Refer to earlier sections in this manual for Summary more complete details on each command. Default HS command parameters are indicated in bold where applicable.

  • Page 101: Table 4-1, Vxibus Model 3152A Scpi Command Summary

    3152A User Manual Table 4-1, VXIbus Model 3152A SCPI Command Summary Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> :FORMat Confirmed :BORDer NORMal | SWAPped Confirmed 0100A<0|1> NORMal | USER 0101A<0|1> :WAVE confirmed :INSTrument Confirmed :MODE NORMal | FAST 0150A<0|1>...
  • Page 102 3152A User Manual Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> :PULSe FREQ,AMPL,OFFS,DEL,WIDT,LEAD,TR 0304G<float,float,float,float,float,fl confirmed oat, float> :RAMP FREQ,AMPL,OFFS,DEL,LEAD,TRA 0305F<float,float,float,float,float,fl confirmed oat> :SINC FREQ,AMPL,OFFS,NCYC 0310D<float,float,float,integer> confirmed :GAUSsian FREQ,AMPL,OFFS,EXP 0306D<float,float,float,integer> confirmed :EXPonential FREQ,AMPL,OFFS,EXP 0307D<float,float,float,integer> confirmed DC_AMPL 0308A<float> confirmed :USER SEG<n>,SCLK,AMPL,OFFS 0309D<integer,float,float,float>...
  • Page 103 3152A User Manual Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> :DELay (10;0;99.9) Confirmed 0730A<float> :WIDTh (10;0;99.9) Confirmed 0731A<float> :TRANsition (10;0;99.9) Confirmed 0732A<float> [:LEADing] (10;0;99.9) Confirmed 0732A<float> :TRAiling (10;0;99.9) Confirmed 0733A<float> :RAMP Confirmed (10;0;99.9) :DELay 0740A<float> Confirmed :TRANsition (10;0;99.9) 0741A<float>...
  • Page 104 3152A User Manual Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> :NULL 08500 confirmed :ADJust (0;0;360) Confirmed 0810A<float> :SOURCe MASTer | SLAVe Confirmed 0800<1|2> :PLL Confirmed :LOCK OFF | ON 0920A<0|1> confirmed [:STATe] OFF | ON 0920A<0|1> confirmed :ADJust (0;-180;+180)
  • Page 105 3152A User Manual Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> :TRACe Confirmed 10001#<string> [:DATA] Confirmed 10001#<string> :DEFine (1;1;4096),(10;10;523288) (even #) Confirmed 10102<integer,long> :DELete (1;1;4096) Confirmed 09201<integer> [:NAME] (1;1;4096) Confirmed 09201<integer> :ALL Confirmed 10210 :SELect (1;1;4096) Confirmed 1030A<integer> :SEGMent...

  • Page 106: Output Configuration Command Summary

    3152A User Manual Keyword Parameter Format SCPI HS Commands (Default,min,max) 1993.0 bincmd<param(s)> *ESE (0;0;255) Confirmed 1501A<integer> *OPC Confirmed 15020 *RST Confirmed 14200 *TRG Confirmed 11000 *ESE? Confirmed 1501@? *ESR? Confirmed 1504@? *IDN? Confirmed 1506@? *OPC? Confirmed 1502@? *SRE? Confirmed 1503@?
  • Page 107 3152A User Manual Commands and Parameters (Low Limit,High Limit,Default) APPLy:<function_shape>? APPLy? FUNCTion:MODE {FIXed | USER | SEQuence | SWEep} (FIX) FUNCTion:MODE? FUNCtion:SHAPe {SINusoid | TRIangle | SQUare | PULSe | RAMP | SINC EXPonential | GAUSsian | DC } (SIN) FUNCtion:SHAPe? FREQuency {<frequency>...

  • Page 108: Standard Waveform Command Summary

    3152A User Manual SYNC:POSition <value> (0,512K,n-6) SYNC:SOURce? SYNC[:STATe] {OFF | ON} SYNC[:STATe]? ECLTrg<n>{OFF | ON} TTLTrg<n>{OFF | ON} TRIGger:SOURce {BIT | LCOMplete | INTernal | External} The Standard Waveform Commands control the various Standard parameters of the standard output functions. Optional modes Waveform are omitted from these commands.

  • Page 109: Arbitrary Waveform, Sequence, And Shared Memory Command Summary

    The shared memory Shared Memory commands place the Model 3152A in a special data transfer Command mode where the Model 3152A's message-based interface is bypassed and data is loaded directly from the VXIbus. Optional Summary modes are omitted from these commands.

  • Page 110: Modulation Command Summary

    3152A User Manual TRACe:SELect <segment_number> FORMat:BORDer {NORMal | SWAPped} FORMat:BORDer? SEQuence:DEFine <step_number>, <segment_number>, <#_repeats> SEQuence:DATA #<data> SEQuence:DELete <sequence_number> SEQuence:DELete:ALL SEQuence:SELect <sequence_number> SEGMent:DATA #<data> SMEMory:MODE {READ | WRITe} SMEMory {OFF | ON} The Modulation Commands controls amplitude modulation Modulation parameters. Optional modes are omitted from these commands.

  • Page 111: Trigger Command Summary

    3152A User Manual The Trigger commands control the trigger modes of the Model Trigger Command 3152A. The Model 3152A can be placed in Triggered, Gated or Summary Burst mode. Trigger source is selectable from an external source, internal trigger generator, backplane TTLTrg 0-7, and software trigger.

  • Page 112: Front-Panel Pll Command Summary

    If the Command Model 3152A is placed in PLL mode, it can be used as a slave Summary only. After lock, the synthesizer’s output frequency is exactly equal to the frequency of the reference signal.

  • Page 113: System-Related Command Summary

    The system-related commands are not related directly to waveform generation but are an important part of operating the Command Model 3152A. These commands can reset or test the Summary instrument, or query the instrument for system information. Command and Parameters...
  • Page 114 If the latter information is not available, the device must return an ASCII 0 for each. For example, Model 3152A’s response to *IDN? is: RACAL INSTRUMENTS,3152A,0,x.x. Where x.x is the current firmware revision *OPC - Set the "operation complete"...

  • Page 115: The Scpi Status Registers

    *WAI - Wait for all pending operations to complete before executing any addditional commands over the interface. The SCPI Status The Model 3152A uses the Status Byte register group and the Standard Event register group to record various instrument Registers conditions.

  • Page 116: Figure 4-1, Scpi Status Registers

    3152A User Manual Standard Event Status Register *ESR? & & & & & & & Queue & Not-Empty Standard Event Status Register *ESE <value> Output Queue *ESE? read by Serial Port Service 2 1 0 ESBMAV Status Byte Register Request...

  • Page 117: The Status Byte Register (Stb)

    3152A User Manual The Status Byte summary register contains conditions from the The Status Byte other registers. Query data waiting in the synthesizer's output Register (STB) buffer is immediately reported through the Message Available bit (bit 4). Bits in the summary register are not latched. Clearing an event register will clear the corresponding bits in the Status Byte summary register.

  • Page 118: Clearing The Status Byte Register

    3152A User Manual The entire Status Byte register can be cleared by removing the Clearing the reasons for service from Auxiliary Status registers. Sending the Status Byte *CLS command to the device after a SCPI command terminator and before a Query clears the Standard Event Status Register Register and clears the output queue of any unread messages.

  • Page 119: Standard Event Status Register (Esr)

    3152A User Manual The Standard Event Status Register reports status for special Standard Event applications. The 8 bits of the ESR have been defined by the Status Register IEEE-STD-488.2 as specific conditions which can be monitored and reported back to the user upon request. The Standard...

  • Page 120: Standard Event Status Enable Register (Ese)

    *ESE32 - ESB on Command Error. *ESE64 - ESB on User Request. *ESE128 - ESB Power on. In general, whenever the Model 3152A receives an invalid SCPI Error Messages command, it automatically generates an error. Errors are stored in a special error queue and may be retrieved from this buffer one at a time.
  • Page 121 3152A User Manual If more than 30 errors have occurred, the last error stored in the queue is replaced with -350, “Too many errors". No additional errors are stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no errors have occurred when you read the error queue, the synthesizer responds with 0,"No error".

  • Page 122: Device-Specific Commands

    The output buffer is cleared when power is shut off or after a device clear has been executed. Device-Specific The Model 3152A conforms to the 1993.0 version of the SCPI standard. Some of the commands used are not included in the Commands 1993.0 version.

  • Page 123: Chapter 5

    This chapter provides maintenance, service information, Maintenance performance tests, and the information necessary to adjust and Overview troubleshoot the Model 3152A Waveform Synthesizer. WARNING The procedures described in this section are for use only by qualified service personnel. Many of...

  • Page 124: Special Handling Of Static Sensitive Devices

    Use only grounded soldering irons. Once the device is installed on the PC board, the device is adequately protected and normal handling may resume. The Model 3152A should be cleaned as often as operating Cleaning conditions require. To clean the instrument, use the following procedure: Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the instrument.

  • Page 125: Repair And Replacement

    3152A User Manual Repair and replacement of electrical and mechanical parts must Repair and be accomplished with great care and caution. Printed circuit Replacement boards can become warped, cracked or burnt from excessive heat or mechanical stress. The following repair techniques are...

  • Page 126: Performance Checks

    Warm-Up Period first turned on. To ensure accuracy, turn on the power to the Model 3152A and allow it to warm-up for at least 30 minutes before beginning the performance test procedure. To avoid confusion as to which initial setting is to be used for...

  • Page 127: Recommended Test Equipment

    20dB feedthrough attenuator 50Ω, 1% “T” BNC Connector 50Ω, 1% Use the following procedures to check the Model 3152A against Performance the specifications. A complete set of specifications is listed in Check Procedures Appendix A. The following paragraphs show how to set up the instrument for the test, what the specifications for the tested function are, and what acceptable limits for the test are.

  • Page 128: Amplitude Accuracy

    :FREQ 10 :VOLT 1 Set the counter to frequency measurement. Connect the Model 3152A output to the counter=s input. Change the frequency setting as required for the test and verify the reading on the counter display as follows: 3152A SETTING COUNTER READING 10.00000 Hz...

  • Page 129: Dc Offset Characteristics

    3152A User Manual Remote Commands: :RES :OUTP ON :FUNC:SHAP SIN :FREQ 1000 :VOLT 15 Set the DMM to ACV measurements (RMS). Connect the Model 3152A output to DMM input. Terminate output with 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the amplitude and verify DMM reading...

  • Page 130: Squarewave Characteristics

    DMM reading as follows: OFFS SETTING DMM READING ±5.000 V ±5.070 V to ±4.930 V Change the Model 3152A AMPL setting to 161 mV. Set VOLT:OFFS and verify the DMM reading as follows: OFFS SETTING DMM READING ±500.0 mV ±507.0 mV to ±493.0 mV Change the Model 3152A AMPL setting to 16.1 mV.

  • Page 131: Sine Characteristics

    3152A User Manual Set the oscilloscope and verify that the rise and fall times are less than 6 ns. Verify that overshoot and ringing are less than 5% of amplitude. Specified Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.1% from 10.00Hz to Sine 100.0KHz (with a 4000 point waveform).

  • Page 132: Sine Flatness

    0 dB. Connect the Model 3152A output to spectrum analyzer input through a 20dB feedthrough attenuator. Set the Model 3152A FREQ setting and verify the harmonic distortions levels as follows: FREQ SETTING HARMONICS LEVEL 5.000 MHz...

  • Page 133: Trig, Gate And Burst Characteristics

    Characteristics Gated - External signal at the TRIG IN connector enables the Model 3152A output. The last cycle of the output waveform is always completed. Burst - Each transition at the front panel TRIG IN connector stimulates the Model 3152A to generate a burst of pre-selected number of cycles.
  • Page 134 :OUTP ON :FREQ 1e3 :INIT:CONT OFF :GATE:STAT ON Set the oscilloscope and verify that the Model 3152A outputs a gated signal. Leave the external pulse generator connected to the Model 3152A for the next test. Burst Configure the Model 3152A as follows:...

  • Page 135: Pll Characteristics

    Connect function generator output to the input of the 50Ω Tee Connector. b. Connect one end of the 50Ω Tee Connector to the 3152A TRIG IN and the other end to the counter Channel A input. c. Connect 3152A OUT to the counter Channel B input.
  • Page 136 0° ±5° (Note and record 10.00 KHz 10.00 KHz the exact reading) Change the Model 3152A PHAS2:ADJ setting to 0Ε and PHAS2:FINE setting to 36°. Verify counter phase readings as shown below. Note the exact phase reading. 3152A FREQ. PULSE GENERATOR SETTING FREQ.

  • Page 137: Adjustments

    Warm-Up Period turned on. To ensure long term calibration accuracy, turn on the power to the Model 3152A and allow it to warm-up for at least 30 minutes before beginning the adjustment procedure. Recommended test equipment for calibration is listed at the...

  • Page 138: Adjustment Procedures

    3152A User Manual All adjustments are performed with the POWER ON. The side Adjustment covers should be removed to allow access to test points and Procedures adjustments. WARNING Special care should be taken to prevent contact with live circuits or the power line area. This could cause an electrical shock resulting in serious injury or death.

  • Page 139: Pulse Response Adjustment

    Set the oscilloscope input impedance to 50Ω. Set the oscilloscope vertical gain and time base, and adjust R36 and C19 for the best pulse response. Change the Model 3152A frequency setting to 10.00 KHz. Set the oscilloscope vertical gain and time base, and adjust R22 for best pulse flatness.

  • Page 140: Offset Adjustment

    :OUTP ON :FREQ 1E3 :VOLT 16 Connect the Model 3152A output to the DMM input through the 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the DMM to AC Volt measurements and 2 V range. Adjust R44 until the DMM reading is 5.657 V ±20 mV.

  • Page 141: Vco Adjustment

    3152A User Manual both steps. Equipment: DMM VCO Adjustment Configure the Model 3152A as follows: Function: Sinewave Output: Remote Commands: :RES Connect the DMM “V” input to U515 pin 1 and the DMM “common” nput to case ground. Set the DMM to DCV measurements.

  • Page 142: Troubleshooting

    Other equipment such as a logic analyzer, an in-circuit emulator, etc., could also be helpful in a difficult situation. Upon power-up, the Model 3152A performs a set of tests. If the Power-Up Tests instrument locks up after power on, proceed with the troubleshooting procedure given in the following paragraphs Racal Instruments ©...

  • Page 143: Self-Test

    Service Technician to the area were the source of the trouble is located. The Model 3152A is made of two boards. The large board (Part Main Board Circuit Number 7100-2370) is the main board.

  • Page 144: Cpu And Vxi Asic Checkout

    Plug an extension card into one of the slots and plug the Model 3152A into the extension card. Turn the chassis power on and repeat the supply voltage tests as above. If one of the voltages is missing or not within the specified range, it is possible that one of the supply lines is shorted inside the Model 3152A.

  • Page 145: Output Amplifier And Amplitude Control Checkout

    Negative going 60 μs width pulses Problems with the output amplifier and amplitude control circuits Output Amplifier can be detected if the Model 3152A accepts word serial and Amplitude commands and responds correctly to word serial queries, but fails to output the correct waveform with correct amplitude and Control Checkout offset levels.

  • Page 146: Clock Synthesizer Checkout

    If there is a problem with the clock synthesizer circuit, proceed with the checkout procedure given in Table 5-3. Before you start with the following procedure, reset the 3152A to the factory default using the *RST command and change frequency setting to 1 MHz.

  • Page 147: Sequence Generator Checkout

    100 MHz ECL level clock Problems with the sequence generator circuits can be detected Sequence if the Model 3152A accepts word serial commands and Generator responds correctly to word serial queries, but fails to output sequences or bursts. If there is a problem with the sequence...

  • Page 148: Table 5-4, Sequence Generator Checkout Procedure

    200 μs periods U47 pin 2, and 3 Positive going pulses; 100 μs width, 200 μs period The next checkout is done on the Model 3152A configured to operate in burst mode with 5 bursts. Use the following command to configure the Model 3152A:...

  • Page 149: Pll Checkout

    Table 5-6. Before starting the following procedure, reset the Model 3152A to the factory default using the *RST command. Configure the Model 3152A to PLL mode, 10 MHz frequency and square waveform. Use the following commands after loading the waveforms.

  • Page 150: Engine Board Circuit Checkout

    3152A User Manual As described in the paragraph Main Board Circuit Engine Board Circuit Checkout, the Model 3152A is made of two boards. If the Checkout engine board is removed from the main board, reinstall it before continuing with the following checks. The following circuit checks are performed on the engine board only.

  • Page 151: Table 5-7A, Engine Board Checkout Procedure - #1

    2,3,9 14, U20 pin 14, U21 pin 6, 11, U22 pin Change the Model 3152A setting to triggered. Use an external pulse generator to apply a TTL level, 200 KHz signal to the TRIG IN connector. Proceed with the checks given in Table 5-7b.

  • Page 152: Table 5-7B, Engine Board Checkout Procedure - #2

    U24 pin 1 ECL Level Negative going pulses; 1 μs width, 200 KHz Change the Model 3152A setting to delayed trigger and change delay to 100. Use an external pulse generator to apply a TTL level and 200 KHz signal to the TRIG IN connector. Proceed with the checks given in Table 5-7c.

  • Page 153: Chapter 6

    For worldwide support and the office closes to your facility, refer to the Support Offices section on the following page. Use the original packing material when returning the 3152A to Reshipment Racal Instruments for calibration or servicing. The original shipping...

  • Page 154: Support Offices

    Tel: +44 (0) 1202 872800; Fax: +44 (0) 1202 870810 Via Milazzo 25, 20092 Cinisello B, Milan, Italy Tel: +39 (0)2 6123 901; Fax: +39 (0)2 6129 3606 Racal Instruments Group Limited, Technologie Park, D-51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany Tel: +49 2204 844205; Fax: +49 2204 844219 Racal Instruments ©...
  • Page 155 Repair and Calibration Request Form To allow us to better understand your repair requests, we suggest you use the following outline when calling and include a copy with your instrument to be sent to the Racal Instruments Repair Facility. Model Serial No.
  • Page 156 3152A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank. Racal Instruments © 2001 Product Support 6-4...

  • Page 157: 3152A Specifications

    3152A User Manual Appendix A 3152A SPECIFICATIONS Module Form Single slot VXIbus C-size VXIbus General module Information Connectors P1, P2 Protocol A16/A24/A32/D16 Slave, Message-Based VXIbus Revision SCPI Revision 1993.0 Optional Command 3152, 3152S1619, Tektronix VX4750 (all optional) Emulation Modes Alternate Command Set...

  • Page 158: Synthesizer Reference Sources/Sample Clock

    3152A User Manual Reference Sources Synthesizer Reference External Reference Input from: VXIbus CLK10 Sources/Sample Optional Internal Reference: PCB layout provides for Clock optional internal 10 MHz TCXO with 1 ppm accuracy Sample Clock External Clock Input from: Front Panel BNC, Frequency to 100 MHz, ECL...
  • Page 159 3152A User Manual Modes Normal Continuous waveform is generated Triggered Each input cycle generates a single output cycle Internal Trigger An internal timer repeatedly generates a single output cycle Gated External signal enables generator. First output cycle synchronous with the active slope of the triggering signal.Last cycle of...
  • Page 160 3152A User Manual Trigger Sources Trigger functionality is optionally to: cause one complete cycle of the selected waveform to be output. gate the waveform output while the trigger signal is asserted. Software IEEE-STD-488.2 *TRG, VXI Word Serial trigger Internal Internal programmable rate...

  • Page 161: Backplane Multi-Module Synchronization

    Therefore, the master module must be triggered before any slave can output it's waveform. Multiple Model 3152A modules may be synchronized. A master Backplane Multi- Model 3152A module provides the necessary signals to slave Module Model 3152A modules to achieve synchronization.
  • Page 162 Front Panel Indicator LED’s Fail Red - Power-up self-test failure Access Amber - Module addressed on VXIbus PLL On Amber - 3152A is locked to external signal Output On Green - Output On/Off Front Panel Input/Output Connectors Main Output Signal Output (BNC)
  • Page 163 3152A User Manual Power VXIbus Rail Peak Dynamic Current Current +24 V < 250 mA < 250 mA +12 V < 100 mA < 100 mA +5 V < 3 A < 150 mA -5.2 V < 2 A < 150 mA -12V <...
  • Page 164 3152A User Manual Environmental Operating Temperature C - 55 Storage Temperature C - +70 Humidity (non-condensing) C - 30 C 95% +5% C - 40 C 75% +5% C - 50 C 45% +5% Altitude Operating 10000 ft Storage 15000ft...

  • Page 165: Output Characteristics

    3152A User Manual Output Characteristics Output Via front panel OUTPUT BNC terminal Stand-By Output Normal or Off Impedance 50Ω ±1% Protection Protected against temporary short to case ground Glitch Energy <1 nV-s at 16 Vp-p Amplitude 20 mV to 32 Vp-p, into open circuit 10 mV to 16 Vp-p, into 50Ω...

  • Page 166: Standard Waveforms

    3152A User Manual 25 MHz 7-pole elliptic 20 MHz 7-pole Gaussian Square Wave, Pulse Rise/Fall time 7 ns Typical, 10% to 90% of amplitude Aberration <5% SYNC Output Via front panel SYNC OUT BNC terminal Level Protection Protected against temporary short-to-...
  • Page 167 3152A User Manual Sine Frequency Range 100 μHz to 50 MHz Distortion <0.1%, below 100 kHz (2000 points minimum) <5 MHz, ≤10 Vp-p, -48 dBc Harmonics <5 MHz, ≤16 Vp-p, -40 dBc <10 MHz, ≤10 Vp-p, -40 dBc <10 MHz, ≤16 Vp-p, -35 dBc <50 MHz, ≤10 Vp-p, -28 dBc...
  • Page 168 3152A User Manual Square Frequency Range 100 μHz to 50 MHz Adjustable Parameters Duty Cycle 1% to 99.9% Pulse/Ramp Frequency Range 100 μHz to 1 MHz Adjustable Parameters Delay 0% to 99.9% of period Rise Time 0% to 99.9% of period High Time 0% to 99.9% of period...

  • Page 169: Arbitrary Waveforms

    3152A User Manual Exponential Decaying/Rising Pulse Frequency Range 100 μHz to 1 MHz Adjustable Parameters Time Constant -100 to 100 Range 1% to 100% of amplitude Waveform Memory 512K points Arbitrary Waveforms Memory Segmentation Number of Segments 1 to 4096...

  • Page 170: Sequenced Waveforms

    7 digits Accuracy Same as frequency standard Stability Same as frequency standard Operation Utilizes the 3152A’s sequencer and Swept Waveforms waveform memory to implement a frequency sweep from one frequency to another. Note: Sweep mode is volatile in that any arbitrary...
  • Page 171 3152A User Manual Sweep Parameters Waveforms Sine, square or triangle Sweep Spacing Linear or log Sweep Direction Up or down Sweep Duration .01 to 1000s Sweep Frequency Range 1mHz to 10MHz Discrete Sweep Steps 10 to 1000 Trigger Modes Same as for sequenced...

  • Page 172: Pll Characteristics

    3152A User Manual Operation Automatically locks to PLL Characteristics external signal PLL Input Characteristics Same as TRIG IN External Lock Frequency Range Standard Waveforms 500 Hz to 200 kHz; frequency setting 500 Hz to 200 kHz; 500 Hz to same value as internal frequency setting, 200 kHz to 10 MHz;...
  • Page 173 3152A User Manual Arbitrary Waveforms 500 Hz to 100 MHz divided by number of waveform samples. See graph below. Coarse Phase Offset Control Range ±180° Resolution Std. Waveforms 0.72°, frequency setting from 500 Hz to 200 kHz; 360° x frequency (in MHz) /...

  • Page 174: Pm Characteristics

    3152A User Manual Frequency Counter Operation Made available to the user in PLL mode only. Frequency reading is valid only when PLL ON LED is lit. Range Same as External Lock Frequency Range above Resolution 4 digits Operation External signal offsets phase.

  • Page 175: Appendix B

    TEKTRONIX VX4750 EMULATION The table below cross-references the Tektronix VX4750 command set with the 3152A (with TEK option) emulation command set. In cases where there are limitations or restrictions on the use of the 3152A’s emulation version of a command, these limitations are listed.
  • Page 176 Specify the load impedance connected to the arb. No restrictions. Enable VXI event generation from the module. No restrictions. Initiate a self-test 3152A error codes are returned. VX4750: 1mHz to 10MHz/7MHz to 25MHz ISWP Specify internal linear sweep parameters. 3152A: 1mHz to 10MHz...

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