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Racal Instruments 3151 User Manual

Waveform generator
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Technologiepark Bergisch Gladbach, Friedrich-Ebert-Strasse, D-51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
Unit 5, 25F., Mega Trade Center, No 1, Mei Wan Road, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, PRC
Copyright 2000 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.

User Manual

3151/3151A
WAVEFORM GENERATOR
Publication No. 980768
RACAL INSTRUMENTS
4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92618-2002
Tel: (800) RACAL-ATE, (800) 722-2528, (949) 859-8999; FAX: (949) 859-7139
Racal Instruments, Ltd.
480 Bath Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 6BE, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1628 604455; FAX: +44 (0) 1628 662017
Racal Systems Electronique S.A.
18 Avenue Dutartre, 78150 LeChesnay, France
Tel: +33 (1) 3923 2222; FAX: +33 (1) 3923 2225
Racal Systems Elettronica s.r.l.
Strada 2-Palazzo C4, 20090 Milanofiori Assago, Milan, Italy
Tel: +39 (0)2 5750 1796; FAX +39 (0)2 5750 1828
Racal Elektronik System GmbH.
Tel.: +49 2204 8442 00; FAX: +49 2204 8442 19
Racal Australia Pty. Ltd.
3 Powells Road, Brookvale, NSW 2100, Australia
Tel: +612 9936 7000, FAX: +612 9936 7036
Racal Electronics Pte. Ltd.
26 Ayer Rajah Crescent, 04-06/07 Ayer Rajah Industrial Estate, Singapore 0513.
Tel: +65 7792200, FAX: +65 7785400
Racal Instruments, Ltd.
Tel: +852 2405 5500, FAX: +852 2416 4335
http://www.racalinstruments.com
PUBLICATION DATE: July 25, 2000
Racal Instruments, Inc.

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Summary of Contents for Racal Instruments 3151

  • Page 1: User Manual

    PUBLICATION DATE: July 25, 2000 Copyright 2000 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...
  • Page 3 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 4 This page was left intentionally blank.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Gated Mode ..........................1-8 Output Type ..........................1-8 Standard Waveforms ......................1-8 Arbitrary Waveforms ....................... 1-8 Sequenced Waveforms ......................1-8 Output State..........................1-10 Synchronization ........................1-10 Filter ............................1-10 Front Panel Indicators ......................1-11 Programming The Model 3151/3151A ..................1-11 Chapter 2...
  • Page 6 3151 And 3151A User Manual 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 Long Term Storage or Repackaging For Shipment ..............2-3 Preparation For Use ........................2-3 Logical Address Selection ......................
  • Page 7 3151 And 3151A User Manual Gated Mode ..........................3-19 Burst Mode..........................3-20 Selecting the Trigger Source......................3-21 Using the Internal Trigger Generator..................3-22 Selecting the Trigger Slope......................3-23 Using the Soft Trigger ........................3-23 Generating Arbitrary Waveforms ....................3-24 What Are Arbitrary Waveforms? ....................3-24 Arbitrary Memory Management ....................
  • Page 8 3151 And 3151A User Manual IEEE-STD-488.2 Common Commands ..................4-4 SCPI Parameter Type......................... 4-5 Numeric Parameters ....................... 4-5 Discrete Parameters ....................... 4-5 Boolean Parameters ....................... 4-5 Arbitrary Block Parameters ..................... 4-6 SCPI Command Summary ......................4-6 Output Configuration Command Summary ................4-9 Standard Waveform Command Summary ................
  • Page 9 3151 And 3151A User Manual Initial Instrument Setting ......................5-4 Recommended Test Equipment ..................... 5-5 Performance Check Procedures ....................5-5 Frequency Accuracy ....................... 5-6 Amplitude Accuracy ........................ 5-7 DC Offset Characteristics ....................... 5-8 Squarewave Characteristics ....................5-9 Sine Characteristics ......................5-10 Sine Flatness ........................
  • Page 10 3151 And 3151A User Manual Product Support ..........................7-1 Reshipment Instructions......................... 7-1 Support Offices..........................7-2 Appendix A Specifications...........................A-1...
  • Page 11 3151 And 3151A User Manual List of Figures Figure 1-1, 3151 and 3151A Front Panel ..................1-2 Figure 1-2, Segment 1 - Sin(x)/x Waveform ..................1-9 Figure 1-3, Segment 2 - Sine Waveform................... 1-9 Figure 1-4, Segment 3 - Pulse Waveform ..................1-9 Figure 1-5, Sequenced Waveforms....................
  • Page 12 3151 And 3151A User Manual List of Tables Table 3-1, Default Conditions After Power On, RESet or *RST............3-2 Table 3-2, Amplitude and Offset Ranges ..................3-3 Table 5-1, CPU and VXI Interface Checkout Procedure..............5-20 Table 5-2, Output Amplifier and Amplitude Control Checkout Procedure ........5-21 Table 5-3, Clock Synthesizer Checkout Procedure.................

  • Page 13: Chapter 1 Getting Started

    3151/3151A Waveform Generator and an overall functional Chapter description of the instrument. It lists and describes various options available for this model. It also describes the Model 3151/3151A front panel connectors and indicators. NOTE The Model 3151A is fully hardware and software compatible with the Model 3151.

  • Page 14: Figure 1-1, 3151 And 3151A Front Panel

    3151 And 3151A User Manual 32 Vp-p into an open circuit, and 10 mV to 16V into 50Ω. Figure 1-1, 3151 and 3151A Front Panel Getting Started 1-2...

  • Page 15: Options

    8-bit words. Each word represents a point on the waveform. Each word has a horizontal address that can range from 0 to 523288 (64536 for the Model 3151) and a vertical address that can range from -2047 to +2048 (12 bits). Using a high speed clocking circuit, the digital contents of the arbitrary waveform memory are extracted and routed to the D/A converter.

  • Page 16: Manual Changes

    RAM, 1PPM • 407382-002 - Model 3151 - 100MS/s Waveform Generator, w/512k RAM, 1PPM • 407382-012 - Model 3151 - 100MS/s Waveform Generator, w/ 64k RAM, 100PPM • 407382-021 - Model 3151 - 100MS/s Waveform Generator, w/512k RAM, 100PPM The Model 3151A is supplied with 512k of waveform memory allowing 523288 point waveforms to be programmed.

  • Page 17: Supplied Accessories

    The description is divided into logical groups: input and output Description connectors, operating modes, output type, output state, synchronization, filters and front panel indicators. The Model 3151/3151A has 5 BNC connectors on its front panel: Input and Output main output, SYNC output, external clock input, reference clock Connectors output and the trigger input.

  • Page 18: Sync Output

    TTL signals. In gated mode, the trigger input is level sensitive, i.e., the Model 3151/3151A is gated when the level is high and idle when the level is low. Level sensitivity may be programmed for the trigger input.

  • Page 19: Operating Modes

    3151 And 3151A User Manual There are a number of operating modes that the Model 3151/3151A Operating Modes can be programmed to operate in: continuous mode, triggered mode, gated mode and burst mode. These operating modes are described below. In continuous mode, the selected waveform is output continuously at Continuous Mode the selected frequency, amplitude and offset.

  • Page 20: Gated Mode

    3151 And 3151A User Manual In gated mode, the Model 3151/3151A circuits are armed to generate Gated Mode output waveforms as long as a gating signal is true. Unlike the triggered mode, the gated mode is level sensitive. When the gating signal goes false, the waveform at the output connector is first completed and the output goes to an idle state.

  • Page 21: Figure 1-2, Segment 1 - Sin(X)/X Waveform

    3151 And 3151A User Manual one million times. The sequence circuit is useful for generating long waveforms with repeated sections. The repeated waveform has to be programmed once and the repeater will loop on this segment as many times as selected. When in sequenced mode, there is no loss of time between linked or looped segments.

  • Page 22: Output State

    The slave modules may be configured to have phase offsets within the range of 0B to 360B. There is no need to install multiple Model 3151/3151A modules in adjacent slots to be able to phase synchronize modules Three filters are built into the Model 3151/3151A, each having a Filter different cutoff frequency and rise time properties.

  • Page 23: Front Panel Indicators

    Front Panel illuminates at power-up until the Model 3151/3151A has passed self- Indicators test. If the Model 3151/3151A self-test fails, the FAIL LED remains illuminated. The FAIL LED may be illiminated during normal operation if the Model 3151/3151A stops communication.
  • Page 24 3151 And 3151A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank. Getting Started 1-12...

  • Page 25: Configuring The Instrument

    Chapter 2 Configuring The Instrument This chapter contains information and instructions necessary to Installation prepare the Model 3151/3151A for operation. Details are provided Overview for initial inspection, grounding safety requirements, repacking instructions for storage or shipment, logical address selection and installation information.

  • Page 26: Performance Checks

    3151 And 3151A 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 the entire test system before connecting cables or...

  • Page 27: Long Term Storage Or Repackaging For Shipment

    3151 And 3151A User Manual WARNING Do not make an attempt to float the output from ground as it may damage the Model 3151/3151A and your equipment. Long Term Storage If the instrument is to be stored for a long period of time or shipped immediately, proceed as directed below.

  • Page 28: Logical Address Selection

    Manager. Logical address 255 permits the Resource Manager to dynamically configure the module logical address. To change the Model 3151/3151A s logical address, use the 8- position DIP switch accessible from the top side of the module near the rear end of the case (switch S1). Figure 2-1 shows the location of the logical address switch.

  • Page 29: Figure 2-1, Set The Logical Address

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Figure 2-1, Set The Logical Address Configuring The Instrument 2-5...

  • Page 30: Installation

    3151 And 3151A 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.

  • Page 31: Using The Instrument

    The instrument can be programmed using a set of SCPI commands. A list of SCPI commands that affect the Model 3151/3151A is given in Table 4-1. The following paragraphs describe the various modes of operation and give examples on how to program the Model 3151/3151A.

  • Page 32: What To Do Now

    The following example programs the Model 3151/3151A to turn on the main output, generate a square waveform, program the frequency to 2 MHz, program the amplitude to 5 V and offset to 2.5 /* Reset the Model 3151/3151A to its default condition as listed in Table 3-1.*/ :RESet;...

  • Page 33: Using The Apply Command

    3151 And 3151A User Manual There are three offset windows ("8 V, "800 mV, "80 mV); the window selected is a function of the amplitude setting. Table 3.2 shows the maximum offset available within each window. Amplitude Window Maximum Offset $1.6 V...
  • Page 34 3151 And 3151A User Manual APPL:SQU 10E6,,1 Alternatively, if just the first parameters need to be changed, omit the commas. The other parameters will be set to the power-up default values: APPL:SQU 4e6,2 Queries can also be made on all parameters associated with a standard function using the APPL: <function_shape>? query.
  • Page 35 3151 And 3151A User Manual <delay>,<high_time>,<rise_time>,<fall_time>} programs the generator to output a pulse waveform with frequency, amplitude, offset, delay, rise time, high time and fall time parameters. The default settings for these functions are: 1 MHz, 5 Vp-p, 0 V, 0%, 10%, 10% and 10%.
  • Page 36 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 3151/3151A to its default condition as listed in Table 3-1.*/ :RESet;...
  • Page 37 3151 And 3151A User Manual :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. Using The Instrument 3-7...

  • Page 38: Output Configuration Commands

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The output configuration commands control the output function, Output shape, frequency, amplitude, filter and state. Optional modes are Configuration omitted from these commands. Commands Use the following command to select the output function type: Selecting an Output...

  • Page 39: Changing The Frequency And Sample Clock

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Use the following command to change the frequency for standard Changing the waveforms and sample clock for arbitrary waveforms: Frequency and FREQuency {<frequency> | MINimum | MAXimum} Sample Clock MIN selects the lowest frequency allowed for the currently active function.

  • Page 40: Selecting The Sample Clock Source

    CLOCK IN connector. INT selects the internally synthesized clock generator. ECLTRG0 selects a sample clock that is available on the backplane. Note that ECLTRG0 is always the active sample clock source when the Model 3151/3151A is set to operate in phase synchronization mode. The query:...

  • Page 41: Selecting The Filter Type

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Selecting the Filter Before selecting the filter type, use the following command to activate the filter: Type OUTPut:FILTer { OFF | ON} ON enables the filter that has been selected with the OUTP:FILT:FREQ command. The default filter state setting is OFF.

  • Page 42: Activating The Backplane Ecltrg And Ttltrg

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Model 3151/3151A can transmit and receive signals on the Activating the VXIbus ECLTRG and TTLTRG lines. Backplane ECLTRG Use the following command to activate one of two backplane and TTLTRG ECLTRG lines: OUTPut:ECLTrg<n> { OFF | ON} <n>...

  • Page 43: Assigning The Validating Source For Ttltrg

    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 3151/3151A output state is programmed to ON. The query: OUTPut? queries the state of the main output and returns "0"...

  • Page 44: Enabling The Sync Output

    3151 And 3151A User Manual (ON). For safety reasons, the SYNC output default setting is OFF. Disable Enabling the Sync or enable the SYNC output using the following command: Output OUTPut:SYNC {OFF | ON} When the SYNC output state is programmed to ON, the SYNC output connector generates signals which are triggered by signals selected using the SYNC:SOUR command.

  • Page 45: Selecting The Sync Position

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Sequence mode. SSYNc Generates a sync signal at intervals that are synchronized with the internal clock generator. This option is useful to minimize jitter when using an oscilloscope. The SSYNc signal is recommended for use in Triggered mode.

  • Page 46: Using The Built-In Standard Waveforms

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Standard Waveform commands control the various parameters Using the Built-In of the active Standard Waveform. Standard waveform commands Standard operate in a similar fashion for each of the Standard Waveforms. To Waveforms simplify the description of this set of commands, only the standard waveform commands for the PULSe function are described.
  • Page 47 3151 And 3151A User Manual For Positive EXPonential: F(m) 7.7t Where A = Amplitude m = Current point (I..N) N = Total number of points t = Time constant set by user For Negative EXPonential: F(m) For GAUSsian: F(m) For SINC: ∏...
  • Page 48 3151 And 3151A User Manual PULSe:DELay <value> sets the pulse delay in percent of the pulse period. For example, if the pulse period is 100 ms, 10% will delay the first transition of the pulse by 10 ms. Delay is measured from trigger to the first turning point.

  • Page 49: 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 3151/3151A does not require a trigger source to stimulate its output cycles. The default operating mode of the instrument is continuous.

  • Page 50: Burst Mode

    Note that the Model 3151/3151A 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 3151/3151A in Burst mode, use the following commands: INITitiate:CONTinuous OFF...

  • Page 51: Selecting The Trigger Source

    Use the following command to select the trigger source for the instrument: TRIGger:SOURce:ADVance {EXTernal | INTernal | TTLTrg<n>} EXT is the default trigger source for the Model 3151/3151A. Select the TTLT<n> option with <n> ranging from 0 to 7 to use one of the TTLTRG lines available on the backplane.

  • Page 52: Using The Internal Trigger Generator

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The internal trigger generator is a free-running generator which is Using the Internal asynchronous with the main output generator. When the internal Trigger Generator trigger source is selected, the front panel TRIG IN signal is inactive.

  • Page 53: Selecting The Trigger Slope

    TRIGger:SLOPe {POSitive | NEGative} Positive going transitions will trigger the Model 3151/3151A when the POS option is selected. Negative transitions will trigger the Model 3151/3151A 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 54: Generating Arbitrary Waveforms

    1/4096. Arbitrary waveform memory has the capacity to store up to 512K of horizontal data points (64K for the –001 version of the 3151). Each horizontal point has a unique address - the first being 00000 and the last 64435.
  • Page 55 3151 And 3151A User Manual 3151/3151A. The length of each segment is left totally to the user s Management discretion. To partition the arbitrary waveform memory, use the Commands following command: TRACe:DEFine <segment_number>,<length> Note that numbers, not names, are assigned to segments that are defined.

  • Page 56: Loading Arbitrary Waveforms

    Next, make segment 8 the active segment. The active segment must be selected because as waveforms are loaded, the Model 3151/3151A 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 57: Figure 3-1, Definite Length Arbitrary Block Data Format

    2 bytes Figure 3-1, Definite Length Arbitrary Block Data Format 6-bits of data are sent to the Model 3151/3151A 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 58: Reversing Byte Order

    2002 is not a multiple of 4, therefore, the generator will automatically adjust the size to 1002 points and generate an error message. Binary data is sent to the Model 3151/3151A in byte-high byte-low Reversing Byte order. This order can be reversed using the following command:...
  • Page 59 A24 memory space. Byte and bit order are the same as with the Arbitrary Block transfers as shown in Figures 3-1 and 3-2. After the data is loaded into the Model 3151/3151A, control is returned to the instrument.

  • Page 60: Sequence

    3. Slot 0 sends command: SMEM:STATE OFF once data transfer is complete. The *OPC? Response is set to 1 when the Model 3151/3151A has transferred memory access from the internal CPU to shared memory. This typically takes a few milliseconds.

  • Page 61: Generating Sequenced Waveforms

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Generating Sequenced Waveforms Sequenced waveforms are made of a number of arbitrary waveforms What Are which can be linked and repeated in various manners. Sequenced Sequenced waveforms are generated from waveforms stored in a library of Waveforms? memory segments.

  • Page 62: Figure 3-4, Sine Waveform Loaded Into Segment 2

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Figure 3-4, Sine Waveform Loaded Into Segment 2 Figure 3-5, Pulse Waveform Loaded Into Segment 3 Figure 3-6 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 63: Sequence Commands

    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 3151/3151A 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 64 3151 And 3151A User Manual NOTE: In the Model 3151A the SEQ:DATA command may be used in place of a series of SEQ:DEF commands if high throughput is needed (see the next section) Use this command up to 4095 times, each time for a different step and for a different segment number and repeat combination.

  • Page 65: High Speed Sequence Downloads (3151A Only)

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Note: The high speed feature described in this section is not High Speed available with the Model 3151, it is available for the 3151A only. Sequence In cases where large numbers of sequence steps must be Downloads (3151A downloaded to the 3151A (e.g., >50), for higher overall...

  • Page 66: Figure 3-7, Fast Sequence Download

    3151 And 3151A 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 67: Triggered Sequence Advance

    Putting these together gives 0000234501. Triggered Sequence Advance is a special case sequenced mode. Triggered Sequence In Triggered Sequence Advance mode, the Model 3151/3151A idles Advance between steps until a valid trigger signal is sensed. The trigger source can be selected from a number of options: •...

  • Page 68: Triggered Sequence Advance Commands

    Advance Commands waveforms using the commands that were explained before. Second, place the instrument in Triggered mode using the INIT:CONT OFF command. To place the Model 3151/3151A 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 69: Inter-Module Synchronization

    Inter-Module Synchronization Synchronization Although multiple Model 3151/3151As within one chassis run off a common clock (CLK10), their outputs are not synchronized to each other. If the same waveform length and clock rates for two modules are selected and both are displayed on an oscilloscope, the outputs may look as though they are synchronized even though they are not.
  • Page 70 3151 And 3151A User Manual PHASe 120 Use the following commands on the third Model 3151/3151A: PHASe:SOURce SLAVe PHASe:LOCK ON PHASe 240 The three Model 3151/3151A modules are now synchronized. NOTE: To insure jitter free synchronization, the sample clock rate should not exceed 67MHz The sample clock rate has no effect on phase offset accuracy.

  • Page 71: Amplitude Modulation Commands

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Arbitrary waveforms stored in memory segments are used as Amplitude modulating envelopes in Amplitude Modulation mode. The modulated Modulation carrier is always a sine waveform with its frequency set in points. The Commands first step in modulating a waveform is to generate an arbitrary waveform either from the standard function library or by downloading a waveform from the controller.

  • Page 72: System-Related Commands

    The first field is the manufacturer's name, the second field is the model number, the third field is not used (always "0") and the fourth field is the firmware version number. The command returns "Racal Instruments, 3151A ,0,1.0". The commands: RESet...
  • Page 73 SCPI command set. The query: *OPT? returns 1 for the 3151A and the 3151-002 version, or 0 for the 3151- 001 version. queries the waveform memory length installed in the 3151. The response is 0 for 64K and 1" for 512K.
  • Page 74 3151 And 3151A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank Using The Instrument 3-44...

  • Page 75: Scpi Command Reference

    Instruments (SCPI) convention rules and syntax are explained in detail. Table 4-1 lists all SCPI commands used for programming the Model 3151/3151A. 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 76: Command Format

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Vertical Bar ( | ) Separate multiple parameter choices Bold Typeface Letters Designate factory default values Part of the OUTPut subsystem is shown below to illustrate the tree system: OUTPut :FILTer [:LPASs] :FREQuency {20MHz|25MHz|50MHz} [:STATe] OFF|ON [:STATe] OFF|ON OUTPut is the root keyword of the command;...

  • Page 77: Command Separator

    3151 And 3151A User Manual A colon ( : ) is used to separate a command keyword from a lower Command Separator level keyword as shown below: SOUR:FUNC:SHAP SIN A semicolon ( ; ) is used to separate commands within the same subsystem, and can also minimize typing.

  • Page 78: Querying Parameter Setting

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Query the current value of most parameters by adding a question Querying Parameter mark ( ? ) to the command. For example, the following command Setting sets the output function to square: SOUR:FUNC:SHAP SQR Query the output function by executing:...

  • Page 79: Scpi Parameter Type

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The SCPI language defines several different data formats to be used SCPI Parameter in program messages and response messages. Type Commands that require numeric parameters will accept all commonly Numeric Parameters used decimal representations of numbers including optional signs, decimal points, and scientific notation.

  • Page 80: Arbitrary Block Parameters

    Arbitrary block parameters are used for loading waveforms into the Arbitrary Block generator's memory. Depending on which option is installed, the Parameters Model 3151/3151A can accept binary blocks up to 1046576 bytes. The following command uses an arbitrary block parameter that is loaded as binary data: TRAC:DATA#564000<binary_block>...
  • Page 81 3151 And 3151A User Manual Table 4-1, VXIbus Model 3151/3151A SCPI Commands List Summary Keyword Keyword Parameter Form (Default in Bold) Parameter Form (Default in Bold) SCPI 1993.0 SCPI 1993.0 Notes Notes :FORMat :BORDer NORMal NORMal | SWAPped Confirmed :OUTPut...
  • Page 82 3151 And 3151A User Manual Keyword Parameter Form (Default in Bold) SCPI 1993.0 Notes :RAMP Not Confirmed :DELay (10;0;99.9) Not Confirmed :TRANsition Not Confirmed [:LEADing] (10;0;99.9) Not Confirmed :TRAiling (10;0;99.9) Not Confirmed :SINC Not Confirmed :NCYCle (10;4;100) Not Confirmed :GAUSsian...

  • Page 83: Output Configuration Command Summary

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Common Commands Common Commands Parameter Form (Default in Bold Parameter Form (Default in Bold) ) IEEE-STD-488.2 IEEE-STD-488.2 *CLS Confirmed *ESE (0;0;255) Confirmed *OPC Confirmed *RST Confirmed *SRE (0;0;255) Confirmed *TRG Confirmed *ESE? Confirmed *ESR? Confirmed...
  • Page 84 3151 And 3151A User Manual FREQuency:RASTer:SOURce? VOLTage {<amplitude>| MINimum | MAXimum} (10.0E-3,16.0,5.00) VOLTage? VOLTage:OFFSet <offset> (-7.19,7.19,0) VOLTage:OFFSet? OUTPut: FILTer:FREQuency {20MHz | 25MHz | 50MHz} 20MHz FILTer:FREQuency? FILTer {OFF | ON} FILTer? [STATe] {OFF | ON} [STATe] SOURce? SYNC:SOURce {BIT | LCOMplete | SSYNc | HCLock} SYNC:POSition <value>...

  • Page 85: Standard Waveform Command Summary

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Standard Waveform Commands control the various parameters Standard Waveform of the standard output functions. Optional modes are omitted from Command Summary these commands. Factory defaults after *RST are shown in bold typeface. Parameter low and high limits are given where applicable.

  • Page 86: Arbitrary Waveform, Sequence, And Shared Memory Command Summary

    The shared memory commands place the Model Command Summary 3151/3151A in a special data transfer mode where the Model 3151/3151A's message-based interface is bypassed and data is loaded directly from the VXIbus. Optional modes are omitted from these commands.

  • Page 87: Trigger Command Summary

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Trigger commands control the trigger modes of the Model Trigger Command 3151/3151A. The Model 3151/3151A can be placed in Triggered, Summary Gated or Burst mode. Trigger source is selectable from an external source, internal trigger generator, backplane TTLTrg 0-7, and software trigger.

  • Page 88: System-Related Command Summary

    The system-related commands are not related directly to waveform System-Related generation but are an important part of operating the Model Command Summary 3151/3151A. These commands can reset or test the instrument, or query the instrument for system information. Command and Parameters SYSTem:ERRor?
  • Page 89 *OPC? query response. *OPT? - Returns a “1” for 3151A and 3151 512K version, and 0 for Model 3151/3151A with 64k memory. *RST - Resets the generator to its default state. Default values are listed in Table 4-1.

  • Page 90: The Scpi Status Registers

    *WAI - Wait for all pending operations to complete before executing any addditional commands over the interface. The Model 3151/3151A uses the Status Byte register group and the The SCPI Status Standard Event register group to record various instrument Registers conditions.

  • Page 91: Figure 4-1, Scpi Status Registers

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Standard Event Status Register *ESR? & & & & & & & Queue & Not-Empty Standard Event Status Enable Register *ESE <value> Output Queue *ESE? read by Serial Port Service Request ESBMAV 2 1 0...

  • Page 92: The Status Byte Register (Stb)

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Status Byte summary register contains conditions from the other The Status Byte registers. Query data waiting in the generator's output buffer is Register (STB) immediately reported through the Message Available bit (bit 4). Bits in the summary register are not latched.

  • Page 93: Clearing The Status Byte Register

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The entire Status Byte register can be cleared by removing the Clearing the Status reasons for service from Auxiliary Status registers. Sending the *CLS Byte Register command to the device after a SCPI command terminator and before a Query clears the Standard Event Status Register and clears the output queue of any unread messages.

  • Page 94: Standard Event Status Register (Esr)

    3151 And 3151A 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 IEEE- Status Register STD-488.2 as specific conditions which can be monitored and (ESR) reported back to the user upon request.

  • Page 95: 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 3151/3151A receives an invalid Error Messages SCPI 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 96 3151 And 3151A User Manual SYSTem:ERRor? Errors have the following format (the error string may contain up to 80 characters): -102,"Syntax error" A complete listing of the errors that can be detected by the generator is given below. -100,"Command error". When the generator cannot detect more specific errors, this is the generic syntax error used.

  • Page 97: Device-Specific Commands

    The Model 3151/3151A conforms to the 1993.0 version of the SCPI Device-Specific standard. Some of the commands used are not included in the Commands 1993.0 version.
  • Page 98 3151 And 3151A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank. SCPI Command Reference 4-24...

  • Page 99: Chapter 5

    This chapter provides maintenance, service information, performance tests, and the information necessary to adjust and Chapter troubleshoot the Model 3151/3151A Waveform Generator. WARNING The procedures described in this section are for use only by qualified service personnel. Many of the steps...

  • Page 100: Special Handling Of Static Sensitive Devices

    7. Once the device is installed on the PC board, the device is adequately protected and normal handling may resume. The Model 3151/3151A should be cleaned as often as operating Cleaning conditions require. To clean the instrument, use the following procedure: 1 Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the instrument.

  • Page 101: Repair And Replacement

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Repair and replacement of electrical and mechanical parts must be Repair and accomplished with great care and caution. Printed circuit boards can Replacement become warped, cracked or burnt from excessive heat or mechanical stress. The following repair techniques are suggested to avoid inadvertent destruction or degradation of parts and assemblies: 1.

  • Page 102: Environmental Conditions

    Most equipment is subject to a small amount of drift when it is first turned on. To ensure accuracy, turn on the power to the Model 3151/3151A and allow it to warm-up for at least 30 minutes before beginning the performance test procedure.

  • Page 103: Recommended Test Equipment

    BNC Cables 1 meter long, 50Ω impedence 20dB feedthrough attenuator 50Ω, 1% Use the following procedures to check the Model 3151/3151A Performance Check against the specifications. A complete set of specifications is listed Procedures in 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 104: Frequency Accuracy

    :FREQ 10 :VOLT 1 2. Set the counter to frequency measurement. 3. Connect the Model 3151/3151A 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:...

  • Page 105: Amplitude Accuracy

    :FREQ 1000 :VOLT 15 2. Set the DMM to ACV measurements (RMS). 3. Connect the Model 3151/3151A output to DMM input. Terminate the output with a 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the amplitude and verify DMM reading as follows: 3151 SETTING DMM READING 15.0 V...

  • Page 106: Dc Offset Characteristics

    :VOLT 1.61 :VOLT:OFFS 5 2. Set the DMM to DCV measurements. 3. Connect the Model 3151/3151A output to the DMM input. Terminate the output with a 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the Model 3151/3151A offset and verify the DMM reading as follows:...

  • Page 107: Squarewave Characteristics

    :FUNC:SHAP SQU :FREQ 10e6 :VOLT 10 2. Connect the Model 3151/3151A output to the oscilloscope input. Use the 20 dB attenuator and set the oscilloscope input impedance to 50Ω. 3. Set the oscilloscope and verify that the rise and fall times are less than 6 ns.

  • Page 108: Sine Characteristics

    Spectrum Analyzer, 50Ω feedthrough termination (or 20dB 50Ω attenuator if required). 1. Connect the Model 3151 output to distortion analyzer input. 2. Set the distortion analyzer to distortion measurements, set the Model 3151 frequency setting, and verify the distortion reading as below.

  • Page 109: Sine Flatness

    5. Connect the Model 3151 output to spectrum analyzer input through a 50Ω feedthrough terminator (or a 20dB 50Ω attenuator if required). 6. Set the Model 3151 FREQ setting and verify the harmonic distortions levels as follows: Freq Setting Harmonics Level 5.000MHz...

  • Page 110: Trig, Gate And Burst Characteristics

    Characteristics waveform. Gated - External signal at the TRIG IN connector enables the Model 3151/3151A output. The last cycle of the output waveform is always completed. Burst - Each transition at the front panel TRIG IN connector stimulates the Model 3151/3151A to generate a burst of pre-selected number of cycles.
  • Page 111 :INIT:CONT OFF :TRIG:BURST:STAT ON :TRIG:COUN 10 :TRIG:SOUR:ADV:EXT 2. Set the oscilloscope and verify that the Model 3151/3151A outputs a burst of 10 complete output waveforms. Remove the external pulse generator connection from the Model 3151/3151A for the next test. Maintenance and Performance Checks 5-13...

  • Page 112: Adjustments

    Most equipment is subject to a small amount of drift when first turned Warm-Up Period on. To ensure accuracy, turn on the power to the Model 3151/3151A and allow it to warm-up for at least 30 minutes before beginning the...

  • Page 113: Pulse Response Adjustment

    3. Set the oscilloscope input impedance to 50Ω. 4. Set the oscilloscope vertical gain and time base, and adjust R36 and C19 for the best pulse response. 5. Change the Model 3151/3151A frequency setting to 10.00 kHz. 6. Set the oscilloscope vertical gain and time base, and adjust R22 for best pulse flatness.

  • Page 114: Amplitude Adjustment

    :OUTP ON :FREQ 1E3 :VOLT 16 Connect the Model 3151/3151A output to the DMM input through the 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the DMM to ACV measurements and 10 V range. Adjust R84 until the DMM reading is 5.657 V "20 mV.

  • Page 115: Offset Adjustment

    :FREQ 1e6 :VOLT 1.61 :VOLT:OFFS 7.19 2. Connect the Model 3151/3151A output to the DMM input through the 50Ω feedthrough termination. Set the DMM to DCV measurements and 10 V range. Record this reading. 3. Change the offset setting to -7.19 V and adjust R85 to have the exact reading as was recorded in the previous step (with reversed polarity).

  • Page 116: 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 3151/3151A 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.

  • Page 117: Main Board Circuit Checkout

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The Model 3151/3151A is made of two boards. The large board (Part Main Board Circuit Number 7100-2370) is the main board. There is a smaller board Checkout mounted on the main board with three connectors (Part Number 7100-2360).

  • Page 118: Cpu And Vxi Asic Checkout

    3151 And 3151A User Manual The most important section to be verified after power supply checkout is the CPU and VXI ASIC CPU and the VXI ASIC section with its various clocks, address, data lines, Checkout and chip select serial data communication components. Problems with the digital part could cause erratic operation or erroneous response to word serial commands.

  • Page 119: Output Amplifier And Amplitude Control Checkout

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Problems with the output amplifier and amplitude control circuits can Output Amplifier be detected if the Model 3151/3151A accepts word serial commands and Amplitude and responds correctly to word serial queries, but fails to output the Control Checkout correct waveform with correct amplitude and offset levels.

  • Page 120: Clock Synthesizer Checkout

    Table 5-3. Before you start with the following procedure, reset the 3151 to the factory default using the *RST command. Table 5-3, Clock Synthesizer Checkout Procedure...

  • Page 121: Sequence Generator Checks

    Positive going pulses; 100 Fs width, 200 Fs period U47 pin 2, and 3 The next checkout is done on the Model 3151/3151A configured to operate in burst mode with 5 bursts. Use the following command to configure the Model 3151/3151A:...

  • Page 122: Engine Board Circuit Checkout

    U49 pin 5 As described in the paragraph Main Board Circuit Checkout, the Engine Board Model 3151/3151A is made of two boards. If the engine board is Circuit Checkout removed from the main board, reinstall it before continuing with the following checks.
  • Page 123 U21 pin 6, 11, U22 pin ECL Level 100 MHz Change the Model 3151/3151A 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 5-6b.

  • Page 124: Table 5-6B, Engine Board Checkout Procedure - #2

    ECL Level Negative going pulses; 1 Fs width, 200 kHz U24 pin 1 Change the Model 3151/3151A 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 5-6c.

  • Page 125: Optional Harness Assemblies

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Chapter 6 OPTIONAL HARNESS ASSEMBLIES The following harness assemblies are used to connect Racal Instruments Model 3151 to Freedom Series Test Receiver Interfaces. Each harness documentation consists of an assembly drawing, parts list, system wire list and wire list.
  • Page 126 3151 And 3151A User Manual This page was left intentionally blank. Optional Harness Assemblies...
  • Page 127 3151 And 3151A User Manual Optional Harness Assemblies...
  • Page 128 CON-CXL-PLG001C.000S OUTPUT, SYNC OUT, TRIG IN, CLOCK IN, 10 MHz. REF OUTPUT 610777 TIE-CA-LKG-.062-.075 910541 POLYURETHANE,CONF.COAT RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO. DOCUMENT NO. 21793 407433 HARNESS ASSEMBLY, 3151, VP90 SHEET 2 of 4...
  • Page 129 This system wirelist serves as a template for incorporating this harness assembly into the overall system wirelist. It does not in any way affect the fabrication of this harness assembly. RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO.
  • Page 130 NO CONNECT J100-16 NO CONNECT J100-17 NO CONNECT J100-18 NO CONNECT J100-19 NO CONNECT RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO. DOCUMENT NO. 21793 407433 HARNESS ASSEMBLY, 3151, VP90 SHEET 4 of 4...
  • Page 131 3151 And 3151A User Manual Optional Harness Assemblies...
  • Page 132 ENGINEERING PARTS LIST ITEM REV PART NO DESCRIPTION REEERENCE 407262 CABLE ASSY, COAX/BNC, TTI 610777 TIE-CA-LKG-.062-.075 RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO. DOCUMENT NO. 21793 407434 HARNESS ASSEMBLY, 3151, TTI SHEET 2 of 4...
  • Page 133 This system wirelist serves as a template for incorporating this harness assembly into the overall system wirelist. It does not in any way affect the fabrication of this harness assembly. RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO.
  • Page 134 CABLE 407262 40" CLOCK IN J104-1 REF OUT CABLE 407262 40" REF. OUTPUT RACAL Instruments, Inc., 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92718 DOCUMENT TITLE SIZE CODE NO. DOCUMENT NO. 21793 407434 HARNESS ASSEMBLY, 3151, TTI SHEET 4 of 4 6-10...

  • Page 135: Chapter 7 Product Support

    Support Offices section on the following page. Use the original packing material when returning the Model Reshipment 3151/3151A to Racal Instruments for calibration or servicing. The Instructions original shipping crate and associated packaging material will provide the necessary protection for safe reshipment.

  • Page 136: Support Offices

    3151 And 3151A User Manual Racal Instruments, Inc. Support Offices 4 Goodyear St., Irvine, CA 92618-2002 Tel: (800) 722-3262, FAX: (949) 859-7309 Racal Instruments, Ltd. 480 Bath Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 6BE, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 8706 080134; FAX: +44 (0) 1753 791290 Racal Systems Electronique S.A.

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