I **** working with 6517A, repeatedly encountering an error message - "" on the display. I **** unable to resolve this issue. Also, the operating Voltage LED stops glowing after approximately 30 minutes of the system running. Can you please help and guide me through this issue I want to use this instrument to its fullest capacity.

Summary of Contents for Keithley 6517A

Page 1 Model 6517A Electrometer User’s Manual A G R E A T E R M E A S U R E O F C O N F I D E N C E...
Page 2 WARRANTY Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 1 year from date of shipment. Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment: probes, cables, rechargeable batteries, diskettes, and documentation.
Page 3 Model 6517A Electrometer User’s Manual All references to the Model 6517 also apply to the Model 6517A. ©1996, Keithley Instruments, Inc. All rights reserved. Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A. Fourth Printing, May 2003 Document Number: 6517A-900-01 Rev. D...
Page 4 Revision C (Document Number 6517A-900-01)..................July 2000 Revision D (Document Number 6517A-900-01)..................May 2003 All Keithley product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Page 5: Safety Precautions
Keithley products are designed for use with electrical signals that The instrument and accessories must be used in accordance with its are rated Measurement Category I and Measurement Category II, as speciﬁcations and operating instructions or the safety of the equip-...
Page 6 Keithley Instru- symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should re- ments. Standard fuses, with applicable national safety approvals, fer to the operating instructions located in the manual.
Page 7: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents General Information Introduction ................................ Features ................................Warranty information ............................Manual addenda ..............................Safety symbols and terms ........................... Specifications ..............................Inspection ................................Options and accessories ............................. Front Panel Operation Introduction ................................ Power-up ................................2.2.1 Line power connections ..........................2.2.2 Line fuse replacement ..........................
Page 8 Resistance and resistivity measurements ......................2-32 2.7.1 Resistance measurements ......................... 2-33 2.7.2 Resistivity measurements ......................... 2-36 2.7.3 Ohms configuration ..........................2-39 2.7.4 Multiple display ............................2-42 2.7.5 Ohms measurement considerations ......................2-42 Charge measurements (Q) ..........................2-42 2.8.1 Basic measurement procedure ........................2-43 2.8.2 Coulombs configuration ...........................
Page 9 2.18.4 Deviation ..............................2-105 2.18.5 Ratio ............................... 2-106 2.18.6 Logarithmic ............................2-106 2.18.7 Selecting and configuring math ......................2-106 2.18.8 Calculate multiple display ........................2-107 2.19 Menu ................................2-107 2.19.1 SAVESETUP ............................2-110 2.19.2 COMMUNICATION ..........................2-116 2.19.3 CAL ................................ 2-117 2.19.4 TEST ..............................
Page 10 *OPT? — option identification query ...................... 3-33 3.11.8 *RCL — recall ............................3-33 3.11.9 *RST — reset the Model 6517A ......................3-33 3.11.10 *SAV — save the current setup in memory ..................... 3-33 3.11.11 *SRE <NRf> — service request enable ....................
Page 11 3.19.16 :VSControl <name> ..........................3-102 3.19.17 :MSELect <name> ..........................3-103 3.19.18 :RESistivity commands .......................... 3-103 3.20 :SOURce subsystem ............................3-106 3.20.1 Digital Output Commands ........................3-106 3.20.2 V-Source Configuration Commands ...................... 3-106 3.21 :STATus subsystem ............................3-109 3.21.1 [:EVENt]? ....................................3-109 3.21.2 :ENABle <NRf>...
Page 12 3.25.5 :MDELay <NRf> ..................................3-150 3.25.6 :SVOLtage <NRf> ................................... 3-151 3.25.7 :STIMe <NRf> ............................3-151 3.25.8 :DTIMe <NRf> ............................3-152 3.25.9 :PDTime <NRf> ..................................3-152 3.25.10 :MVOLtage <NRf> ................................3-152 3.25.11 :MTIMe <NRf>..................................3-153 3.25.12 :HLEVel <NRf> ..................................3-153 3.25.13 :HTIMe <NRf>...
Page 13 IEEE-488 Conformance Information Information ................................. SCPI Conformance Information Introduction ................................ Device Dependent Command Summary...
Page 14: List Of Illustrations
List of Illustrations Front Panel Operation Figure 2-1 Line voltage switch ............................ Figure 2-A Input signal ..............................Figure 2-B Measurement on 20nA range ........................Figure 2-2 Bar graph (zero-at-left) multiple display ....................Figure 2-3 Zero-centered bar graph multiple display ....................Figure 2-4 Maximum and minimum multiple display ....................
Page 15 Figure 2-39 V-source (FVMI configuration) ....................... 2-48 Figure 2-40 Typical 2V analog output connections ..................... 2-51 Figure 2-41 Typical preamp out connections ....................... 2-53 Figure 2-42 Electrometer input circuitry (external feedback mode) ................2-54 Figure 2-43 Shielded fixture construction ........................2-55 Figure 2-44 “Transdiode”...
Page 16 IEEE-488 connections ..........................Figure 3-3 IEEE-488 connector location ........................Figure 3-4 RS-232 interface connector ........................Figure 3-5 Model 6517A status register structure ....................... Figure 3-6 Standard event status ..........................Figure 3-7 Operation event status ..........................Figure 3-8 Arm event status ............................
Page 17: List Of Tables
List of Tables Front Panel Operation Table 2-1 Line fuse selection ............................. Table 2-2 Data checked on power-up ......................... Table 2-3 Power-up error messages ........................... Table 2-4 Typical display exponent values ........................ Table 2-5 Status and error messages .......................... Table 2-6 Multiple (Next) displays by function ......................
Page 18 :TSEQuence command summary ......................3-58 Table 3-17 :UNIT command summary ........................3-61 Interface Function Codes Table B-1 Model 6517A interface function codes ..................... IEEE-488 Bus Overview Table D-1 IEEE-488 bus command summary ......................Table D-2 Hexadecimal and decimal command codes ....................Table D-3 Typical addressed command sequence ......................
Page 19: General Information
GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. • Full range of functions — Exceptional sensitivity and • Scanning — The Model 6517A has an option slot that accuracy for voltage, current, charge, and V/I resistance will accommodate an optional scanner card (Models and resistivity (surface and volume) measure- 6521 and 6522).
Page 20: Warranty Information
BNC adapter. This adapter lets you connect a BNC cable to the triax input of the Model 6517A. Suitable for use The CAUTION heading used in this manual explains haz- with the Model 6517A in high voltage applications.
Page 21 Model 8502 Trigger Link Adapter: Allows you to connect Model 6517-TP Thermocouple with Leads: This type K the Trigger Link of the Model 6517A to instruments that use thermocouple sensor allows the Model 6517A to make exter- the standard BNC (In/Out) external triggering technique.
Page 22: Front Panel Operation
This section contains detailed information for front panel op- Voltage source — Covers V-source operation includ- eration of the Model 6517A. It is organized as follows: ing how to use the safety interlock. Power-up — Covers information on connecting the in- 2.10 Analog outputs —...
Page 23: Power-Up
A rear panel fuse located below the AC receptacle protects 2.2.1 Line power connections the power line input of the instrument. If the fuse needs to be Follow the procedure below to connect the Model 6517A to replaced, perform the following steps: line power and turn on the instrument.
Page 24: Power-Up Sequence
Front Panel Operation 2.2.3 Power-up sequence Table 2-2 Data checked on power-up On power-up, the Model 6517A performs self-tests on its Data Type of storage EPROM and RAM, and checksum tests on data stored in non-volatile memory. (See Table 2-2.) If a failure is detected,...
Page 25: Warm-Up Period
µA e-6A 2.2.5 Warm-up period Milliamps e-3A Ω Kilo-ohms kΩ e3Ω The Model 6517A can be used within one minute after it is Mega-ohms MΩ Ω e6Ω turned on. However, the instrument should be turned on and Giga-ohms GΩ Ω...
Page 26: Status And Error Messages
(22nA on the 20nA range). Because of clipping, the measurement of the input signal is signiﬁcantly less than 20nA. To avoid these bad readings, the Model 6517A dis- DCA Reading = <20nA plays the OUT OF LIMITS message instead of the inaccu- rate reading.
Page 27 Front Panel Operation Table 2-5 (cont.) Table 2-5 Status and error messages Status and error messages Number Description Event Number Description Event -121 “Invalid character in number” -440 “Query UNTERMINATED after -120 “Numeric data error” indeﬁnite response” -430 “Query DEADLOCKED” -114 “Header sufﬁx out of range”...
Page 28 Front Panel Operation 2.3.4 Multiple displays Table 2-5 (cont.) Status and error messages Each measurement function has its own set of “multiple dis- Number Description Event plays” shown in the bottom line of the front panel display. The PREVious and NEXT DISPLAY keys scroll through the +350 to Calibration commands (see Model selections for the present function.
Page 29: Navigating Menus
Front Panel Operation Bar graph wise, values greater than 1% (such as 1.67%) are shown rounded to the nearest integer percent. The “normal” bar graph, with a zero at the left end, is a graphical representation of a reading as a portion of a range. Perform the following to view or change the plus and minus (See Figure 2-2.) The vertical lines displayed along the bar percentage of range:...
Page 30: Connections - Electrometer, High-Resistance Meter, And V-Source
Front Panel Operation Use the following rules to navigate through the menu struc- ing. The concepts of guarding and ﬂoating circuits are ture: introduced here. 1. The top level of the Main Menu is accessed by pressing NOTE the MENU key. A Conﬁguration menu is accessed by Detailed connection schemes are included pressing CONFIG and then the desired function (V, I, with the measurement procedures (see...
Page 31: Figure 2-6 Maximum Input Levels
Capacitor Under Test 6517A Input protection — The Model 6517A incorporates protec- Ammeter tion circuitry against nominal overload conditions. However, a high voltage (>250V) and resultant current surge could damage the input circuitry. A typical test circuit to measure the leakage current of a capacitor is shown in Figure 2-7.
Page 32: High-Resistance Meter Connections
Front Panel Operation 2.4.2 High-resistance meter connections 2.4.3 Voltage source output connections The Model 6517A uses the Force Voltage Measure Current The voltage source output is accessed at the rear panel V (FVMI) conﬁguration to measure resistance. From the SOURCE OUT HI and LO binding posts as shown in Figure known voltage and measured current, the resistance is calcu- 2-10A.
Page 33: Low Noise Cables, Shielding, And Guarding
Metal Noise Shield tion between the center conductor and the inner shield when the cable is ﬂexed or allowed to move around. The use of low Connect to 6517A LO, chassis ground noise cables help minimize these triboelectric currents. See Device or or both (via triax cable) paragraph 2.21.2 for more information on minimizing tri-...
Page 34: Floating Circuits
Figure Figure 2-21 in paragraph 2.5.1 shows detailed connections 2-14 shows two examples where the Model 6517A ﬂoats at for guarded voltage measurements. See paragraph 2.5.3 a hazardous voltage level. In Figure 2-14A, a shock hazard (Guarding) for more information on guard.
Page 35: Figure 2-14 Floating Measurements
(chassis) ground while ﬂoating the Figure 2-14 input may damage the instrument. Floating measurements The V-Source of the Model 6517A can also be operated 6517A above earth ground as shown in Figure 2-15. In this circuit, V-Source the V-Source is ﬂoating 100V above ground. Thus, a shock 200V 100kΩ...
Page 36: Test Fixtures
DUT (resis- the ground wire must be attached to a tance measurements). The second is a multi-purpose test ﬁx- known safety earth ground. ture that can be used to make any Model 6517A measurement. 2-15...
Page 37 Connectors, terminals and internal wiring Figures 2-16 and 2-17 show the types of connectors needed to use the test ﬁxtures with the Model 6517A. All connectors, The switch must be mounted inside the test box such that it except the triax connector, must be insulated from the chassis will be closed when the lid of the test ﬁxture is closed.
Page 38: Figure 2-18 Interlock Connections
Open lid = Open Switch -.000 View from inside of test box B. Panel cutout dimensions C. Interlock Connector: D. Interlock Wiring Keithley P/N : CS-659 (3-pin) CS-459 (4-pin) Switchcraft P/N : TB3M (3-pin) TB4M (4-pin) Figure 2-18 Interlock connections...
Page 39: Voltage Measurements
Voltage measurements Interlock Normally-Open SPST Momentary 6517-ILC-3 Cable* The Model 6517A can make unguarded or guarded voltage Switch Clear measurements from 1µV to 210V. Guard should be used if re- Black sponse time or leakage resistance is a consideration. The con- Strain relief for cable cepts of guarding are discussed in paragraphs 2.4.4 and 2.5.3.
Page 40 Figure 2-21) should be used for voltage paragraph 2.12 for detailed range information). measurements at or above 30V. 5. Connect the Model 6517A to the voltage to be mea- sured. Figure 2-20 shows typical connections for un- guarded measurements, and Figure 2-21 shows typical 6.
Page 41 Front Panel Operation 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. 237-ALG-2 Cable Red (HI) COMMON INPUT Black (LO) 250V PEAK LINE RATING 90-134VAC Measured 180-250VAC 50, 60, 400HZ...
Page 42: Volts Configuration
Front Panel Operation 2.5.2 Volts conﬁguration cable) is connected to meter input LO. This mode is used for unguarded voltage, current and charge measurements. When The following information explains the various conﬁgura- enabled, the inner shell (shield) of the triax connector (and tion options for the volts function.
Page 43: Voltage Measurement Considerations
1000 times the value of the source resistance (R ). The input ter keying in a new value. Note that an integer PLC value will resistance of the Model 6517A is >2 × 10E Ω. Thus, to keep increase noise rejection.
Page 44: Figure 2-22 Meter Loading
If R is large enough, the divider will signiﬁcantly attenuate the voltage seen at the in- put of the Model 6517A (see CABLE LEAKAGE RESIS- 100R TANCE). Also, R and the cable capacitance (C...
Page 45: Current Measurements
(see Current measurements paragraph 2.12 for detailed range information). 4. Connect the Model 6517A to the current to be mea- The Model 6517A can make current measurements from sured. Figure 2-25 shows typical connections for current 10aA to 21mA.
Page 46 Front Panel Operation 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. 237-ALG-2 Cable Red (HI) COMMON INPUT 250V PEAK LINE RATING LINE FUSE 90-134VAC SLOWBLOW 180-250VAC 1/2A, 250V...
Page 47 Front Panel Operation Safety Shield 6517A Guard Shield WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED 237-ALG-2 Cable Black (LO) PREAMP OUT COMMON 250V PEAK INPUT 250V PEAK Measured Current Red (HI)
Page 48: Amps Configuration
Front Panel Operation 2.6.2 Amps conﬁguration er measurement ranges. For example, if you know that read- ings will not exceed 1µA, you can specify the 2µA range to The following information explains the various conﬁgura- be the maximum range. When the instrument autoranges (as- tion options for the amps function.
Page 49: Current Measurement Considerations
Low Level Measurements hand- book, which is available from Keithley. The input bias current for the Model 6517A is listed in the speciﬁcations. Input bias current may be reduced by per- forming the offset adjustment procedure explained in para- graph 2.19.3 (OFFSET-ADJ).
Page 50 Note that the recommended source re- sistance varies by measurement range because the R value The voltage burden of the Model 6517A depends on the se- also depends on the measurement range. lected range (see speciﬁcations). Voltage burden may be re- duced by performing the offset adjustment procedure explained in paragraph 2.19.3 (OFFSET-ADJ).
Page 51 Source capacitance DUT source capacitance will also affect the noise perfor- mance of the Model 6517A ammeter. In general, as source capacitance increases, the noise also increases. To see how changes in source capacitance can affect noise gain, let us again refer to the simpliﬁed ammeter model in Figure 2-28.
Page 52 10nA (10V/1GΩ = 10nA). Thus, the current that is measured by Figure 2-30 the Model 6517A is the sum of the two currents (I = I Floating current measurements 10nA). Obviously, if I is a low level current, then the 10nA leakage current will corrupt the measurement.
Page 53: Resistance And Resistivity Measurements
Thus, ohms ranges are actually current Auto V-Source ranges with ohms displayed. The Model 6517A has an auto V-Source mode for resistance When the resistance of the DUT (device under test) is too and resistivity measurements. With AUTO V-Source select-...
Page 54: Resistance Measurements
(R = V/I). The V-Source level can be set automat- , and the VOLTAGE SOURCE ically by the Model 6517A or it can be manually set by the keys to set the voltage level. The V-Source range can be user.
Page 55 The programmed voltage is not being applied to the load. In this situation, try using a lower voltage for the measurement. 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
Page 56 CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 6517A Note: Set fixture mode switch 8607 Banana Plug Cables to picoammeter operation.
Page 57: Resistivity Measurements
Sample Ring Electrode 2.7.2 Resistivity measurements Guarded Electrode 6517A 6517A The Model 6517A can make surface resistivity measure- Picoammeter V-Source ments from 10 to 10 ohms and volume resistivity mea- surements from 10 to 10 ohm-cm. Typical resistivity test ﬁxtures (such as the Model 8009) use circular electrodes.
Page 58 πD ing the resultant current through the sample as shown in Figure 2-35. The Model 6517A automatically performs the following calculation and displays the volume resistivity + g (refer to Figure 2-34 to determine dimension reading: ρ...
Page 59 (Auto V-Source) and 2.7.3 (V-SOURCE) for details. 4. Connect the sample to be measured to the Model Place the V-Source in standby before 6517A. Figure 2-36 shows the connections to the Model making or breaking connections to the 8009 for surface and volume resistivity measurements.
Page 60: Ohms Configuration
CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 6517A 8607 Banana Plug Cables Warning: Connect of fixture to safety earth ground using safety ground wire (supplied with 8002A test fixture).
Page 61 Front Panel Operation AUTORNG will not exceed 1GΩ, you can specify the 2GΩ range to be the maximum range. When the instrument autoranges (as- The AUTORNG option is used to conﬁgure autorange for the suming AUTO range is enabled), it will not search into the ohms function.
Page 62 . Paragraph 2.7.2 explains how to calculate ments: NOTE VSOURCE If the Model 6517A is already conﬁgured The VSOURCE menu item is used to select either AUTO V- to use the Model 8009 Resistivity Test Source or MANUAL V-source: Fixture (see FIXTURE-MODEL) then the interlock cable MUST be connected to •...
Page 63: Current Measurement Considerations
Front Panel Operation WARNING The Model 6517A can be used to characterize such resis- tance changes by measuring the resistance with a number of A hazardous voltage (400V) may auto- different applied voltages. Once the variations are known, matically be set for the ohms function the voltage coefﬁcient of the resistor being tested can be de-...
Page 64: Basic Measurement Procedure
The AUTO-DISCHARGE selections are as follows: 4. Connect the test cable to the Model 6517A. With the in- put open, disable zero check and enable REL to zero the OFF: Use this selection to disable auto discharge. With auto instrument.
Page 65 For example, if you know that the readings will not exceed HIGH(200nC-2µC): Use this option to limit the autorange 10nC, you can select LO autorange limits. When the instru- search to the high measurement ranges. 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
Page 66: Charge Measurement Considerations
Long measurement times may degrade charge measurement Any such current is integrated along with the input signal accuracy. See the Model 6517A coulombs speciﬁcations in and reﬂected in the ﬁnal reading. The Model 6517A has a Appendix A. maximum input bias of 4fA (4 × 10 A) for change at 23°C.
Page 67: Voltage Source
The V-Source is isolated (>1GΩ) from the measurement cir- source in standby until ready to safely cuits of the Model 6517A when V-Source LO is not internal- source voltage. NEVER make or break any ly connected to ammeter LO (see Ammeter LO to V-Source connections with the instrument in oper- LO Connection).
Page 68 WITH FRONT PANEL MENU) INTERLOCK CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 6517A Connections 6517A V-Source Equivalent Circuit Figure 2-38 V-source (independent conﬁguration)
Page 69: Setting Voltage Source Value
WITH FRONT PANEL MENU) INTERLOCK CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 6517A Connections 6517A V-Source Ammeter Equivalent Circuit Note: Ammeter LO internally connected to V-Source LO via METER Connect option of CONFIG V-Source menu.
Page 70: Voltage And Current Limit
Front Panel Operation While in the multiple (NEXT) display state, you can tempo- 4. When ﬁnished, the voltage source edit mode will cancel rarily display the voltage source value by pressing the (EDIT annunciator off) after three seconds. key. The voltage source value will appear on the second- ary display for three seconds, unless an editing operation is 2.9.3 Voltage and current limit performed (see Adjusting Voltage Source Value).
Page 71: Interlock And Test Fixtures
2.10 Analog outputs When using the V-Source with the Model 8002A High Re- The Model 6517A has two analog outputs on the rear panel. sistance Test Fixture, use the Model 8002-ILC-3 Interlock The 2V ANALOG OUTPUT provides a scaled 0-2V output Cable as shown in Figure 2-32.
Page 72: Analog Output
CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 1683 Model 6517A Test Lead kit Measuring Device (Example: Chart recorder) A. Connections = 4.99kΩ...
Page 73: Preamp Out
Note that the PREAMP OUT output resistance is 1Ω. The output resistance appears between Input Low and Analog The PREAMP OUT of the Model 6517A follows the signal Output Low to keep the resistor out of the loop when using amplitude applied to the INPUT terminal.
Page 74 CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 1683 Model 6517A Test Lead kit Measuring Device A. Connections = -I Preamp Out...
Page 75: Using External Feedback
Input HI connections. When using exter- ance and low input current of the Model 6517A. If these nal feedback, the following factors must be taken into ac- insulators become contaminated, they can be cleaned count: with methanol and then with clean, pressurized air.
Page 76: Shielded Fixture Construction
2.11.3 External feedback procedure 3. Select external feedback as follows: E. Press CONFIG V to display the CONFIGURE DCV Use the following procedure to operate the Model 6517A in menu. the external feedback mode. F. Place the cursor on EXT-FDBK and press ENTER.
Page 77: Non-Standard Coulombs Ranges
A solution to these constraints is to use a transistor conﬁg- ured as a “transdiode” in the feedback path, as shown in Fig- In its standard form, the Model 6517A has four coulombs ure 2-44. Analyzing the transistor in this conﬁguration leads...
Page 78: Non-Decade Current Gains
2.12.2 Display resolution 2.12.1 Measurement range The Model 6517A can display readings at 3.5, 4.5, 5.5 or 6.5 The measurement range affects the accuracy of the measure- digit resolution. The display resolution of a reading depends ment as well as the maximum signal that can be measured.
Page 79: Zero Check, Relative, And Zero Correct
Front Panel Operation Zero Check Input 10MΩ Current Input To Ranging Amplifier 1Ω Op Amp Common Preamp (Chassis) Figure 2-45 Non-decade current gains The display resolution for ohms readings may be less than 2.13 Zero check, relative, and zero correct what was selected.
Page 80: Relative (Rel)
Actual=+001.012 (without REL) crease the maximum allowable input for that range. For ex- ample, on the 2mA range, the Model 6517A still overﬂows for a 2.1mA input. 2-59...
Page 81: Zero Correct
The following information describes each test, shows the 4. Press REL to zero correct the instrument (REL indicator connections to the Model 6517A, and explains how to set up will be lit and "Zcor" displayed). the Model 6517A for the measurements.
Page 82 Front Panel Operation 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. 7078-TRX Cable V SOURCE PREAMP OUT COMMON 250V PEAK INPUT 250V PEAK LINE RATING LINE FUS...
Page 83 Front Panel Operation 6517A WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. 7078-TRX Cable V SOURCE PREAMP OUT COMMON 250V PEAK INPUT 250V PEAK LINE RATING Diode LINE FUSE...
Page 84 ﬁgured from the CONFigure SEQUENCE menu (DEV- LAY 2), a second resistance measurement is made. The CHAR; RESISTOR). See paragraph 2.14.2 for details. Model 6517A then automatically calculates the voltage coef- ﬁcient and stores it in the buffer. This test is selected and con- 6517A...
Page 85 (MEAS-V) and, after a speciﬁed delay el 8009 Instruction Manual for information on installing the (MEAS-TIME), the Model 6517A measures the resistivity sample in the test ﬁxture. of the sample and stores the reading in the buffer. Note that...
Page 86 Model ﬁrst few readings can be rejected (DISCARD XXX RDGS) as 6517A to the function in use when it was armed. the sample or resistance achieves a steady-state response to the al- During execution, the sequence will show “--------”...
Page 87 (MEAS-V) is then applied and, after a speciﬁed time fault test parameters. When the test is run, 20 measurements (MEAS-TIME), the Model 6517A measures the resistance will be performed (at each high and low level) and stored in and stores the reading in the buffer.
Page 88 Front Panel Operation Cycle: 1sec Test Parameters: HI-Level = +1V HI-Time = 1sec = Measurements LO Level = -1V LO-Time = 1sec Cycle Count = 10 Figure 2-54 Default measurement points; square wave sweep test Test Parameters: Start = +1V Stop = +10V Step = +1V Step Time = 1 sec...
Page 89: Configure Test Sequence
Resistivity Tests: GPIB: Use this option to select the GPIB trigger source. Once the test is armed, it will start when the Model 6517A SURFACE — Use this option to select and conﬁgure the Sur- receives a bus trigger (GET or *TRG). Note that the TRIG face Resistivity Test.
Page 90 Front Panel Operation TRIGLINK: Use this option to select the trigger link trigger when the Model 6517A receives a trigger via the selected source. After selecting TRIGLINK you will be prompted to trigger link line. Note that the TRIG key can instead be used select the trigger link line.
Page 91: Running The Selected Test
1. Enable zero check and make sure the V-Source is in standby (OPERATE LED off). Notes: 2. Connect and conﬁgure the Model 6517A for the desired test as explained in paragraph 2.14.1. 1. If the IMMEDIATE trigger source is selected, the test 3.
Page 92: Triggers
When the selected trigger source event occurs, the test will re-run. Readings may Model 6517A triggers are set up from the CONFIGURE be recalled, or the sequence re-conﬁgured while the TRIGGER menu. The menu structure is shown and summa- 6517A awaits the trigger.
Page 93 Front Panel Operation Table 2-21 (cont.) CONFIGURE TRIGGER menu structure Menu item Description SCAN Scan layer menu: SOURCE Select scan source: IMMEDIATE Use to pass operation immediately into the measure layer. EXTERNAL Use external triggers to control scanning. MANUAL Use TRIG key to control scanning. GPIB Use bus triggers to control scanning.
Page 94: Trigger Model
(device action). This trigger mode provides continuous reading conversions. The following information describes triggering of the Model 6517A from the front panel. The ﬂowchart of Figure 2-56, With the one-shot trigger mode selected, operation waits for which is the simpliﬁed trigger model, summarizes basic the selected control source event to occur before making a front panel triggering.
Page 95: Figure 2-57 Advanced Trigger Model
Front Panel Operation Halt triggers, or Idle enable scanning TRIG (or SCAN) Idle Arm Trigger Control = Source Arm Layer Another Arm Count (Source Bypass Enabled)* (Arm Layer 1) Output Control Arm Event Trigger Source Detection Immediate External Source Manual Bypass GPIB Enabled...
Page 96 In the Arm Layer and Scan Layer, enabling a source bypass also enables the respective output trigger. In the Trigger Lay- Once the Model 6517A is taken out of the idle state, opera- er, its output trigger is always enabled and occurs after every tion proceeds through the layers of the trigger model down device action.
Page 97: Basic Trigger Configuration
2.15.2 Basic trigger conﬁguration surement. The following information explains how to conﬁgure the Model 6517A for basic triggering. If you instead wish to use advance triggering, refer to paragraph 2.15.3. Basic trigger- EXT: With this selection, external triggers are used to control ing is conﬁgured from the BASIC item of the CONFIGURE...
Page 98: Advanced Trigger Configuration
Each trigger stimulus applied to the Model 6517A performs a device action, as deﬁned by See paragraph 2.15.5 for details on using the Trigger Link. the trigger model. In addition to a measurement, this may in-...
Page 99 • SEMI-SYNCHRONOUS — In this mode, the input and INFINITE: Use this selection to continuously repeat mea- output triggers for the Model 6517A are assigned to the surements (and looping in the measure layer). same line. After selecting this trigger link mode, you will be prompted to select the trigger line.
Page 100 (GET or *TRG) is received by the Model HOLD: When HOLD is selected, the scan source is sup- 6517A. See Section 3 for detailed information on bus trig- pressed. As a result, operation does not pass into the measure gers.
Page 101 Operation passes into the scan layer er. You can program the Model 6517A to scan up to 99999 when the TRIG key is pressed. times.
Page 102 TRIGLINK: With this selection, the arm source is controlled by the Trigger Link of the Model 6517A. Trigger Link is an enhanced trigger system that uses up to six lines to direct trigger pulses to and from other instruments. Operation pass- es into the scan layer when the Model 6517A receives a trig- ger over the Trigger Link.
Page 103: External Triggering
(see Figure 2-58). The EXT TRIG IN source selections. Select HOLD from the SELECT ARM jack allows the Model 6517A to be triggered by other instru- SOURCE menu by placing the cursor on HOLD and press- ments. The MTR COMP OUT jack allows the Model 6517A ing ENTER.
Page 104: Figure 2-61 Dut Test System
Meter complete and asynchronous trigger link output are conﬁgured as follows: pulse speciﬁcations 6517A Typically, you would want the Model 6517A to output a trig- ger after the settling time of each measurement. (Settling OUTPUT time includes the internally set measurement settling time...
Page 105: Trigger Link
Arm layer: Ready of the Model 7001/7002 to External Trigger Input Arm source = Immediate* of the Model 6517A to trigger a measurement of DUT #1. Arm count = 1* • After the Model 6517A completes the measurement, it Arm trigger control = Acceptor*...
Page 106: Figure 2-63 Trigger Link Connector
Source for TRIGLINK trigger events. Typically, a Trigger the six lines, but they cannot use the same line. For example, Link output trigger from the Model 6517A would be used to if you select line #1 for input triggers, then output triggers trigger a scanner to close the next channel.
Page 107: Figure 2-64 Dut Test System
FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Card 1 7158 MUX Card Figure 2-64 DUT test system Model 6517A 7001 or 7002 Switch System WARNING: WARNING: WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
Page 108 Idle State: ing the STEP key. Bench reset = :INIT:CONT ON* To run the test and store the readings in the Model 6517A, Arm layer: press STORE on the electrometer, enter the desired number Arm source = Immediate* of readings (ten), and press ENTER.
Page 109 Trigger Link connector on current level and the ten channels are again scanned and the Model 6517A using a trigger link cable. The BNC con- measured. nectors mate directly to the External Triggering BNC con-...
Page 110: Figure 2-67 Connections Using Trigger Link Adapter
Trigger CAUTION: CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. Model 6517A 7002 Scanner Figure 2-67 Connections using Trigger Link adapter OUTPUT OUTPUT...
Page 111 Front Panel Operation T rigger Link Cables (8501) 7001 or 7002 Switch System Model 6517A WARNING: WARNING: WARNING: WARNING: NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. NO INTERNAL OPERATOR SERVICABLE PARTS,SERVICE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
Page 112 6517A waits in the measure layer for a trigger. operation drops down to the scan layer at point A. To run the test and store the readings in the Model 6517A, Since Scan Trigger Control of the Model 7001/7002 is press STORE on the electrometer, enter the desired number set for Source, the scan does not wait at point A for a trigger.
Page 113 Assume that the Model 6517A initially performs a measure- released, a trigger occurs on the positive-going edge (see ment. After the reading is done, the Model 6517A drives the Figure 2-71). The advantage of this single line trigger is that trigger line low.
Page 114 FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD,REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING. T rigger Model 6517A Line #1 Link 7001 or 7002 Switch System...
Page 115 Front Panel Operation To run the test and store the readings in the Model 6517A, The following explanation on operation is referenced to the press STORE on the electrometer, enter the desired number operation model shown in Figure 2-74. of readings (ten), and press ENTER. The Model 6517A waits (with the asterisk annunciator lit) for a Trigger Link trigger from the Model 7001/7002.
Page 116: Buffer
Pressing STEP takes the Model 7001/7002 out of the idle state and places operation at point B in the ﬂowchart. The Model 6517A has a buffer to store reading data. The max- Since both the arm layer and scan layers are programmed for...
Page 117 Front Panel Operation Table 2-22 Maximum buffer readings Buffer elements CHANNEL TIMESTAMP ETEMperature HUMIDITY VSOURCE Max Buffer Size = 15706 11779 11779 9423 10470 8566 8566 7248 13462 10470 10470 8566 9423 7852 7852 6730 11779 9423 9423 7852 8566 7248 7248 6282...
Page 118: Configuring Data Storage
Front Panel Operation 2.16.1 Conﬁguring data storage • To specify the source of readings to be stored. • To select optional data elements. The data storage conﬁguration menu is used for the follow- ing operations: The buffer is conﬁgured from the CONFIG DATA STORE menu (see Table 2-23).
Page 119 Front Panel Operation COUNT CLEAR-ALL With this menu selection, you specify the number of read- This action (yes or no) can be used at any time to clear the ings to store. data buffer of all stored readings and buffer statistics. TIMESTAMP ENTER-COUNT: This item allows you to specify the buffer size in number of readings.
Page 120: Storing And Recalling Readings
Front Panel Operation DELTA: With this selection, each timestamp is referenced to V-Source — When selected, the sourced voltage level will be the timestamp for the previous reading. This provides the available as a multiple (NEXT) display (see paragraph time between buffer readings. Timestamps are provided in 2.16.3).
Page 121: Filters
Front Panel Operation Table 2-24 Fill-and-stop sequence Action Result Annunciator STORE STORE 00100 READINGS ENTER Storing reading #xx of 100 (* on) Storage complete; press RECALL (* off) RECALL Rdg#+00000 @Time=+000.000000 sec Rdg#+00099 @Time=+002.700473 sec EXIT (normal reading display) Table 2-25 Continuous sequence Action Result...
Page 122: Buffer Multiple Displays
4. MIN – minimum reading in buffer, for example: put signals. MIN=+1.627611e+00 at RDG# +00012 The Model 6517A uses two types of ﬁlters: digital and me- 5. Average – This math operation displays the mean value dian. The displayed, stored or transmitted reading is simply of the buffered readings, for example: the result of the ﬁltering processes.
Page 123: Digital Filters
Digital ﬁlter types the time needed to display, store, or output a ﬁltered reading: The Model 6517A has two types of digital ﬁlters: averaging • Filter type: The time to the ﬁrst reading is the same for and advanced. Both types are a simple average of one to 100 both types, but thereafter moving mode yields a faster reading conversions.
Page 124: Figure 2-75 Digital Filter; Averaging And Advanced Filter Types
Front Panel Operation Voltage +1% of range Window Violation -1% of range +1% of range -1% of range Integration Time Conversions: Type = averaging Readings = 5 Mode = moving Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Type = advanced Conversions:...
Page 125: Figure 2-76 Digital Filter; Moving And Repeating Filter Modes
Front Panel Operation Conversion Conversion Conversion Reading Reading Reading Conversion Conversion Conversion A. Type - Average, Readings = 10, Mode - Moving Conversion Conversion Conversion Reading Reading Reading Conversion Conversion Conversion B. Type - Average, Readings = 10, Mode - Repeating Figure 2-76 Digital ﬁlter;...
Page 126: Percent
Front Panel Operation • ADVANCED — This selection is for an averaging ﬁlter • MOVING — This item selects a moving ﬁlter, where a with a noise window. A message indicating the present- new reading conversion is shifted into a stack as the old- ly set number of reading conversions to average (the est conversion is shifted out (FIFO).
Page 127: Math
Front Panel Operation 2.18 Math target value, often in scientiﬁc notation. The percentage cal- culation is performed as follows: Model 6517A math operations are divided into four catego- Input Reading ries: Percent --------------------------------- - x 100 Target Value • Math performed on single readings (polynomial, per- cent, percent deviation ratio and logarithmic).
Page 128: Ratio
MATH key (MATH ENTER to display the “a0” constant. If you change the “a0” constant, be sure to again press ENTER. annunciator turns on). The Model 6517A then displays the result of the calculation, using scientiﬁc notation where nec- PERCENT essary.
Page 129: Calculate Multiple Display
Front Panel Operation %DEV the top line. This display is available by repeatedly pressing either the NEXT or PREVious DISPLAY key to scroll This menu item selects the percent deviation calculation and through the multiple displays for the particular function. The lets you specify the reference value.
Page 130: Savesetup
Description SAVESETUP Setup menu: SAVE Save setup at a memory location (0-9). RESTORE Return 6517A to setup stored at a memory location (0-9). POWERON Power-on Menu: BENCH Power on to bench default setup conditions. GPIB Power on to GPIB default setup conditions.
Page 131 Front Panel Operation Table 2-29 (cont.) MAIN MENU STRUCTURE Menu item Description LIMITS Limits menu: LIMIT-SET-1 Limit-Set-1 menu: CONTROL Enable/disable limit set #1. LOLIM1 Set value of low limit #1. HILIM1 Set value of high limit #1. LIMIT-SET-2 Limit-Set-2 menu: CONTROL Enable/disable limit set #2.
Page 132: Savesetup
Front Panel Operation 2.19.1 SAVESETUP The instrument can be set to power on to the factory bench defaults, the factory GPIB defaults, or to a user setup stored The SAVESETUP option of the main menu is used for the (see SAVE) at a speciﬁc memory location. The POWERON following operations: options are explained as follows: •...
Page 133: Communication
Front Panel Operation Table 2-30 Factory default conditions Bench default Function or operation (SYSTem:PRESet) GPIB default (*RST) A/D Controls: Line Synchronization Data Stamp: Temperature (external) Humidity Hardware Limit Buffer: Control Fill and stop Fill and stop Count No effect No effect Timestamp No effect No effect...
Page 134: Digital Filters
Front Panel Operation Table 2-30 (cont.) Factory default conditions Bench default Function or operation (SYSTem:PRESet) GPIB default (*RST) Filter Digital Filter Averaging Readings Advanced Readings Noise Tolerance Level Filter Mode Moving Repeat Median Filter Rank I (Amps): Damping Range Manual (20mA) Manual (20mA) Autorange Limits...
Page 135 Front Panel Operation Table 2-30 (cont.) Factory default conditions Bench default Function or operation (SYSTem:PRESet) GPIB default (*RST) R (Ohms): Auto V-Source Ohms Range 2MΩ 2MΩ Autorange Limits Use all ranges Use all ranges Manual V-Source Ohms Range Manual (200kΩ) Manual (200kΩ) Autorange Limits...
Page 136 Front Panel Operation Table 2-30 (cont.) Factory default conditions Bench default Function or operation (SYSTem:PRESet) GPIB default (*RST) Test Sequence Diode Diode Diode: Start Voltage Stop Voltage Step Voltage Delay 1 sec 1 sec Capacitor: Bias Voltage Points Interval 1 sec 1 sec Cable: Bias Voltage...
Page 137 Front Panel Operation Table 2-30 (cont.) Factory default conditions Bench default Function or operation (SYSTem:PRESet) GPIB default (*RST) Test Sequence Staircase Sweep: Start Stop Step Step Time 1 sec 1 sec Start Source Manual Manual Triglink Line Line #1 Line #1 Triggers Advanced (armed) Advanced (idled)
Page 138: Communication
Command programming. This mode allows you control The RS-232 menu is used for the following operations: both a Model 6517A and a 617 electrometer over the GPIB using the same DDC commands. See Section 3 of • To select the RS-232 Interface.
Page 139: Cal
TALK annunciator turns on. The options for talk-only are explained as follows: The CALIBRATION menu is used to calibrate the Model 6517A. INTERVAL: This option controls how often readings are sent (printed). The interval is expressed as 1 out of nnnn COMPREHENSIVE, POINT-CALS and CAL-OPT readings.
Page 140: Test
Figure 2-77. passes (PASS). Note that the Model 6517A does not check the validity of the • Low limit = -10.0, High limit = 10.0. A 0.6MΩ reading high and low limit values when you enter them. If low limit equals 600,000 (FAIL).
Page 141: Figure 2-77 Limits Bar Graph Example
Front Panel Operation PASS-PATTERN LLIM1 | | HLIM1 This item allows you to program the on/off states of the dig- ital output lines for when all limit tests pass. Note that when Low Limit #1 High Limit #1 the binning strobe is enabled, digital output line #4 cannot be used.
Page 142: Status-Msg
Digital I/O port The instrument may become so busy displaying status mes- The Model 6517A’s Digital I/O port is an 8-pin mini-DIN sages, that key presses are no longer acknowledged. You socket located on the rear panel. The port’s location and pin may have to clear status message display by pressing the designations are shown in Figure 2-79.
Page 143 Front Panel Operation The Model 6517A’s Digital I/O port can be used to control External voltage supply external circuitry. The port provides four output lines and Each output can be operated from external voltage supplies one input line (input line is for calibration use only — refer (voltage range from +5V to +30V applied through the exter- to the Model 6517 Service Manual).
Page 144 TTL, or CMOS inputs: the device. When using the Model 6517A’s collector outputs to turn on externally powered devices, set the corresponding 1. Connect the Model 6517A digital outputs to the logic in- digital output line parameters as follows (set through the puts.
Page 145 Front Panel Operation NOTE Serial #XXXXXX SCPI version 1991.0 software rev AXX AYY If any LIMITS control is enabled (LOLIM1 or 2, HILIM1 or 2— High, where: #XXXXXX is the serial number of the instrument. Low, or Pass), the OUTPUT-STATE menu AXX is the ﬁrmware level for the main microcon- does not check or change the output status.
Page 146 CLOCK time (24-hour format) and date for each reading. The Model 6517A has a real-time clock that is used for time- Timestamp type for bus readings is coupled to timestamp stamping bus and buffer readings (real-time timestamp), and type for buffer readings.
Page 147: Scanning
When using external scanning, you can conﬁgure the Model item. Use the cursor keys and the range keys to set the time 6517A to measure up to 400 channels. In order to synchro- (hours:minutes:seconds). Press AUTO to set seconds to zero.
Page 148: Other Measurement Considerations
10. The next message will ask if you wish to use the scan ground at only a single point, as shown in Figure 2-84. Note timer of the Model 6517A. If you selected TIMER as the that only a single instrument is connected directly to power trigger source in step 6, select YES.
Page 149: Triboelectric Effects
However, the high impedance levels of many Model als and make connecting structures as rigid as possible. 6517A measurements do not allow these charges to decay Make sure there are no mechanical stresses on the insulators. rapidly, and erroneous or unstable readings may result.
Page 150: Magnetic Fields
This sensor plugs into the connector label the European Union as denoted by the CE mark. However, it “HUMIDITY” on the rear panel of the Model 6517A. Note is still possible for sensitive measurements to be affected by that an extension cable (part number CA-129-1) is supplied external sources.
Page 151 External temperature GENERAL MENU. The GENERAL MENU is covered in paragraph 2.19.7. The Keithley Model 6517-TP option is a “K” type thermo- couple sensor that is used to measure external temperature. NOTE This sensor plugs into the connector labeled “TEMP TYPE Do not allow the exposed thermocouple K”...
Page 152: Ieee-488 Reference
Model 6517A. This section contains information on remote operation for 3.12 SCPI Signal oriented measurement commands: the Model 6517A and is organized as follows: Covers the signal oriented commands used by the Connections: Explains instrument connections to the Model 6517A.
Page 153: Ieee-488 Bus Connections
Instrument Instrument RS-232 serial port The Model 6517A has a serial port that can be used as an al- ternative to the parallel IEEE-488 bus. All commands, except DDCs, can be used over this serial port. The serial port is based on the electrical and mechanical characteristics of the RS-232-C standard.
Page 154: Serial Interface Connections
3 to display the GPIB/PRINTER SET- 3.2.2 RS-232 serial interface connections UP menu. The serial port of the Model 6517A can be connected to the serial port of a computer or listening device (i.e., serial print- 4. Place the cursor on ADDRESSABLE and press EN- er) using an RS-232 cable terminated with DB-9 connectors.
Page 155: Gpib Programming Language Selection
If you include the CECHP command in your AUTOEX- EC.BAT ﬁle, the driver will automatically be installed every When using the Model 6517A over the GPIB interface, you time you turn on your computer. can use either SCPI commands and common commands, or DDCs.
Page 156: General Bus Commands
The IFC command is sent by the controller to place the Mod- General bus commands are those commands such as DCL el 6517A in the local, talker, and listener idle states. The unit that have the same general meaning regardless of the instru- responds to the IFC command by cancelling front panel ment.
Page 157: Llo (Local Lockout)
The serial polling sequence is used to obtain the Model terface and return it to a known state. Note that the DCL 6517A serial poll byte. The serial poll byte contains impor- command is not an addressed command, so all instruments tant information about internal functions, as described in equipped to implement DCL will do so simultaneously.
Page 158: Front Panel Aspects Of Ieee-488 Operation
IEEE-488 Reference Front panel aspects of IEEE-488 LSTN — This indicator is on when the Model 6517A is in the listener active state, which is activated by addressing the operation instrument to listen with the correct MLA (My Listen Ad- dress) command.
Page 159 IEEE-488 Reference Figure 3-5 Model 6517A status register structure...
Page 160: Figure 3-6 Standard Event Status
IEEE-488 Reference Always Standard Event Zero * ESR ? Status Register (B15) (B7) (B6) (B5) (B4) (B3) (B2) (B1) (B0) (B14 - B8) & PON = Power On & URQ = User Request CME = Command Error & EXE = Execution Error &...
Page 161: Figure 3-8 Arm Event Status
IEEE-488 Reference From ORed Summary of Sequence Event Status (See Figure 3-7). Always Seq1 Zero Condition Register (B15) (B14 - B2) (B1) (B0) Seq1 Transition Filter (B15) (B1) (B0) (B14 - B2) Seq1 Arm Event Register (B15) (B1) (B0) (B14 - B2) &...
Page 162: Figure 3-9 Sequence Event Status
IEEE-488 Reference Lay2 Lay1 Always Sequence Zero Condition Register (B15) (B2) (B1) (B0) (B14 - B3) Lay2 Lay1 Sequence Transition Filter (B15) (B2) (B1) (B0) (B14 - B3) Lay2 Lay1 Sequence Event Register (B15) (B2) (B1) (B14 - B3) (B0) &...
Page 163: Figure 3-10 Trigger Event Status
(B1) (B0) (B14 - B2) Seq 1 = Sequence 1 (Set bit indicates that the 6517A is in the trigger layer of Sequence 1) & = Logical AND OR = Logical OR PTR = Positive Transition Register NTR = Negative Transition Register...
Page 164: Figure 3-11 Measurement Event Status
IEEE-488 Reference Always Measurement Zero BHF BAV Condition Register (B15) (B14) (B13) (B12) (B11) (B10) (B9) (B8) (B7) (B6) (B5) (B4) (B3) (B2) (B1) (B0) Always Measurement Zero (B15) (B14) (B13) (B12) Transition Filter (B11) (B10) (B9) (B8) (B7) (B6) (B5) (B4) (B3)
Page 165: Condition Registers
IEEE-488 Reference Always Warn Coul Ohms Temp Volt Questionable Zero Condition (B15) (B14) (B13) (B12) (B11) (B10) (B9) (B8) (B7 - B5) (B4) (B3) (B2) (B1) (B0) Register Always Warn Coul Ohms Temp Volt Questionable Zero Transition (B15) (B14) (B13) (B12) (B11) (B10)
Page 166: Event Registers
3.8.5 Queues The *ESR? Common Command is used to read the Standard The Model 6517A uses two queues; the Output Queue and Event Register (see paragraph 3.11.3). All other event regis- the Error Queue. The queues are ﬁrst-in ﬁrst-out (FIFO) reg- ters are read using the [:EVENT]? query commands in the isters.
Page 167: Status Byte And Service Request (Srq)
IEEE-488 Reference 3.8.6 Status byte and service request (SRQ) For description of the other bits in the Status Byte Register, refer to paragraph 3.11.12. Service request is controlled by two 8-bit registers; the Status Byte Register and the Service Request Enable Register. The The IEEE-488.2 standard uses the following common query structure of these registers is shown in Figure 3-13.
Page 168 Typically, service requests (SRQs) are man- aged by the serial poll sequence of the Model 6517A. If an Service Request Enable Register — This register is pro- SRQ does not occur, bit B6 (RQS) of the Status Byte Regis-...
Page 169: Trigger Model (Ieee-488 Operation)
The bypass loop resets (be in effect) if Once the Model 6517A is taken out of the idle state, opera- operation loops back to a higher layer (or idle).
Page 170: Arm Layer
IEEE-488 Reference :ABOrt *RCL :SYST:PRES Interface Changes* Idle :INIT [:IMM] :INIT:CONT ON Initiate :INIT [:IMM] :INIT:CONT ON :ARM:TCONfigure:DIRection SOURce (Source Bypass Enabled) Another Arm Layer 1 :ARM:COUNt <n> | INFinite :ARM:IMMediate :ARM:SIGNal (Arm Layer) Output Control Arm Event Trigger Source Detection :ARM:SOURce IMMediate ** :ARM:SOURce MANual...
Page 171 IEEE-488 Reference Device Action — The primary device action is a measure- trigger action occurs on the selected TRIGGER LINK output ment. However, the device action could include a function line as follows: change and a channel scan (if scanner is enabled). A channel •...
Page 172: Programming Syntax
IEEE-488 Reference 3.10 Programming syntax The following information covers syntax for both common commands and SCPI commands. For information not covered here, refer to the IEEE- 488.2 and SCPI standards. Command words Program messages are made up of one or more command words. 1.
Page 173 IEEE-488 Reference <n> Numeric value: A numeric value parameter can consist of an NRf number or one of the following name parameters; DEFault, MINimum or MAXimum. When the DEFault parameter is used, the instrument is programmed to the *RST default value. When the MINimum parameter is used, the instrument is programmed to the lowest allowable value.
Page 174 IEEE-488 Reference :SYSTem:PRESet Long-form :SYST:PRES Short-form :SYSTem:PRES Long and short-form combination Note that each command word must be in long-form or short-form, and not something in between. For example, :SYSTe:PRESe is illegal and will generate an error. The command will not be executed. Short-form rules: The following rules can be used to determine the short-form version of any SCPI command or parameter: A.
Page 175: Program Messages
IEEE-488 Reference Program messages A program message is made up of one or more command words sent by the computer to the in- strument. Each common command is simply a three letter acronym preceded by an asterisk (*). SCPI commands are categorized into subsystems and are structured as command paths. The fol- lowing command paths are contained in the :STATus subsystem and are used to help explain how command words are structured to formulate program messages.
Page 176 IEEE-488 Reference 3. Command path rules: A. Each new program message must begin with the root command, unless it is optional (e.g., [:SENSe]). If the root is optional, simply treat a command word on the next level as the root. B.
Page 177 Multiple command messages), the multiple response message for all the queries is sent to the computer when the Model 6517A is addressed to talk. The responses are sent in the or- der that the query commands were sent and are separated by semicolons (;). Items within the same query are separated by commas (,).
Page 178: Common Commands
Returns an ID code that indicates which memory option is installed and whether or not the optional scanner card is installed. *RCL <NRf> Recall command Returns the Model 6517A to the setup conﬁguration stored in the speciﬁed memory location. *RST Reset command Returns the Model 6517A to the *RST default conditions.
Page 179: Ese - Event Enable
IEEE-488 Reference 3.11.2 *ESE <NRf> — event enable Program the Standard Event Enable Register ESE? — event enable query Read the Standard Event Enable Register Parameters <NRf> = Clear register Set OPC (B0) Set QYE (B2) Set DDE (B3) Set EXE (B4) Set CME (B5) Set URQ (B6) Set PON (B7)
Page 180: Esr? - Event Status Register Query
IEEE-488 Reference Bit Position Event PON URQ CME Decimal Weighting (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) Value Note : Bits B8 through B15 are not shown since they are not used. Value : 1 = Enable Standard Event Events : PON = Power On 0 = Disable (Mask) Standard Event URQ = User Request...
Page 181: Idn? - Identification Query
Bit B6, User Request (URQ) — Set bit indicates that the LOCAL key on the Model 6517A front panel was pressed. Bit B7, Power On (PON) — Set bit indicates that the Model 6517A has been turned off and turned back on since the last time this register has been read.
Page 182: Opc - Operation Complete
When used with the :INITiate or :INITiate:CONTinuous ON command, the OPC bit of the Stan- dard Event Status Register will not set until the Model 6517A goes back into the idle state. The initiate operations are not considered ﬁnished until the instrument goes into the idle state.
Page 183: Opc? - Operation Complete Query
When used with the :INITiate or :INITiate:CONTinuous ON command, an ASCII “1” will not be sent to the Output Queue and the MAV bit will not set until the Model 6517A goes back into the idle state. The initiate operations are not considered ﬁnished until the instrument goes into the idle state.
Page 184: Opt? - Option Identification Query
<NRf> = 0 to 9 Specify memory location This command is used to return the Model 6517A to a setup conﬁguration stored at a memory location. The *SAV command is used to store a setup conﬁguration at a memory location (see paragraph 3.11.10).
Page 185: Sre - Service Request Enable
IEEE-488 Reference 3.11.11 *SRE <NRf> — service request enable Program Service Request Enable Register SRE? — service request enable query Read Service Request Enable Register <NRf> = 0 Clears enable register Set MSB bit (Bit 0) Set EAV bit (Bit 2) Set QSB bit (Bit 3) Set MAV bit (Bit 4) Set ESB bit (Bit 5)
Page 186: Stb? - Status Byte Query
Bit 3, Questionable Summary Bit (QSB) — Set bit indicates that a calibration error has oc- curred. Bit 4, Message Available (MAV) — Set bit indicates that a message is present in the Output Queue. The message is sent to the computer when the Model 6517A is addressed to talk. 3-35...
Page 187: Trg - Trigger
Send a GPIB trigger to the Model 6517A. Description The *TRG command is used to issue a GPIB trigger to the Model 6517A. It has the same effect as a group execute trigger (GET). The *TRG command is used as an arm, scan and/or measure event to control operation. The Model 6517A reacts to this trigger if GPIB is the programmed control source.
Page 188 IEEE-488 Reference the *WAI command after the :INITiate command, all subsequent commands will not execute until the Model 6517A goes back into idle. The *TRG command issues a bus trigger which could be used to provide the arm, scan and mea- sure events for the Trigger Model.
Page 189: Signal Oriented Measurement Commands
Description This query command is used to request the latest post-processed reading. After sending this command and addressing the Model 6517A to talk, the reading will be sent to the computer. This command does not affect the instrument setup. This command does not trigger a measurement. It simply requests the last available reading.
Page 190 IEEE-488 Reference • The Model 6517A is placed in the idle state. • All math calculations are disabled. • Buffer operation is disabled. A storage operation currently in process will be aborted. • Autozero controls are set to the *RST default values.
Page 191 IEEE-488 Reference :MEASure[:<function>]? where: <function> = VOLTage[:DC] Volts function CURRent[:DC] Amps function RESistance Ohms function CHARge Coulombs function This command combines all of the other signal oriented measurement commands to perform a “one-shot” measurement and acquire the reading. When this command is sent, the following commands are executed in the order that they are pre- sented.
Page 192: Scpi Command Subsystems
IEEE-488 Reference SCPI command subsystems SCPI commands are categorized into subsystems and are summarized in Tables 3-4 through 3- 16. Following the tables, the subsystems are covered in the following alphabetical order: 3.13 Calculate subsystems — Use :CALCulate1 to conﬁgure and control the math operations. Use :CALCulate2 to manipulate readings stored in the buffer, and use :CALCulate3 to conﬁgure and control the limit tests.
Page 193: Scpi Command Summary
IEEE-488 Reference SCPI Command Summary Tables 3-4 through 3-16 summarize the commands for each SCPI subsystem. General notes: • Brackets ([ ]) are used to denote optional character sets. These optional characters do not have to be included in the program message.
Page 194 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-4 (Continued) CALCulate command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :CALCulate3 Subsystem to control CALC 3 (limit tests): 3.13.3 √ :LIMit[1] Path to control LIMIT 1 test: √ :UPPer Path to conﬁgure upper limit: √ [:DATA] <n>...
Page 195 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-5 CALibration command summary Command* Description :CALibration:UNPRotected :VOFFset Null voltage burden :IOFFset Null input offset current *These are the only two commands accessible to the operator. To cali- brate the instrument, refer to the Model 6517 Service Manual. Table 3-6 DISPlay command summary Default...
Page 196 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-7 FORMat command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI :FORMat [:DATA] <type>[,<length>] Select data format: (ASCii, REAL,32, REAL,64, SREal or DREal). ASCii √ √ [:DATA]? Query data format. :ELEMents <item list> Specify data elements: (READing, CHANnel, RNUMber, UNITs, (Note) TSTamp, STATus, ETEMperature, HUMidity and VSOurce).
Page 197: Table 3-10 Sense Command Summary
IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-9 ROUTe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :ROUTe √ :CLOSe <list> Path and command to close speciﬁed channel: 3.18.1 √ :STATe? Query closed channel. √ :CLOSe? <list> Query speciﬁed channels (1 = closed, 0 = open). √...
Page 198 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-10 (Continued) SENSe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :VOLTage[:DC] Path to conﬁgure volts: √ :APERture <n> Set integration rate in seconds (166.67e-6 to 200e-3). (Note 1) 3.19.4 :AUTO Enable or disable auto aperture. :AUTO ONCE Enable and then disable auto aperture.
Page 199 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-10 (Continued) SENSe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :CURRent[:DC] Path to conﬁgure Amps: √ :APERture <n> Set integration rate in seconds (166.67e-6 to 200e-3). (Note 1) 3.19.4 :AUTO Enable or disable auto aperture. :AUTO ONCE Enable and then disable auto aperture.
Page 200 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-10 (Continued) SENSe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :RESistance Path to conﬁgure resistance: √ :APERture <n> Set integration rate in seconds (166.67e-6 to 200e-3). (Note 1) 3.18.4 :AUTO Enable or disable auto aperture. :AUTO ONCE Enable and then disable auto aperture.
Page 201 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-10 (Continued) SENSe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :RESistance :AVERage Path to control average ﬁlter. 3.18.10 :TYPE <name> Select ﬁlter type (NONE, SCALar, ADVanced). SCALar :TYPE? Query ﬁlter type. :TCONtrol <name> Select ﬁlter type: (MOVing or REPeat). (Note 3) :TCONtrol? Query ﬁlter type.
Page 202 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-10 (Continued) SENSe command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :CHARge Path to conﬁgure Coulombs. :APERture <n> Set integration rate in seconds (166.67e-6 to 200e-3). (Note 1) √ 3.19.4 :AUTO Enable or disable auto aperture. :AUTO ONCE Enable and then disable auto aperture.
Page 203 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-11 SOURce command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :SOURce (Note 1) :TTL[1] Path to set digital output line #1: 3.20.21 [:LEVel] Enable or disable line #1. [:LEVel]? Query state of line #1. :TTL2 Path to set digital output line #2: 3.20.21 [:LEVel] ...
Page 204: Table 3-12 Status Command Summary
IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-12 STATus command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :STATus √ :MEASurement Path to control measurement event registers: [:EVENt]? Read the event register. (Note 2) 3.21.1 :ENABle <NRf> Program the enable register. (Note 3) 3.21.2 :ENABle? Read the enable register.
Page 205 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-12 (Continued) STATus command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :STATus :QUEStionable Path to control questionable status registers: √ [:EVENt]? Read the event register. (Note 2) √ 3.21.1 :ENABle <NRf> Program the enable register. (Note 3) √...
Page 206 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-13 SYSTem command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI :SYSTem :PRESet Return to :SYST:PRES defaults. √ 3.22.1 :POSetup <name> Select power-on setup: (RST, PRESet or SAV0-SAV9). 3.22.2 :POSetup? Query power-on setup. √ :VERSion? Query rev level of SCPI standard. 3.22.3 √...
Page 207: Table 3-14 Trace Command Summary
IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-14 TRACe command summary Power-up Command Description defaults* SCPI Ref. :TRACe|:DATA Use :TRACe or :DATA as root command. :CLEar Clear readings from buffer. 3.23.1 √ :FREE? Query bytes available and bytes in use. 3.23.2 √ :POINts <n> Specify size of buffer.
Page 208 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-15 Trigger command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :INITiate Subsystem command path: √ 3.24.1 [:IMMediate] Initiate one trigger cycle. √ :CONTinuous Enable or disable continuous initiation. (Note 1) √ :CONTinuous? Query continuous initiation. √ :POFLag <name>...
Page 209 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-15 (Continued) Trigger command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. √ :TRIGger[:SEQuence[1]] Path to program Trigger Layer: √ :IMMediate Loop around control source. 3.24.3 :COUNt <n> Set measure count (1 to 99999, or INF). (Note 3) √...
Page 210: Table 3-16 :Tsequence Command Summary
IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-16 (Continued) :TSEQuence command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :TSEQuence :TSOurce? Query trigger source. :TLINe <NRf> Specify TLINk line; 1 to 6. 3.25.1 :TLINe? Query TLINk line. DLEakage Diode leakage test path: :STARt <NRf> Specify start voltage; -1000 to 1000. 3.25.2 :STARt? Query start voltage.
Page 211: Figure 2-52 Alternating Polarity Resistance/Resistivity Test
IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-16 (Continued) :TSEQuence command summary Default Command Description parameter SCPI Ref. :TSEQuence :VRESistivity :STIME <NRf> Specify bias time; 0 to 99999.9 (sec). 1 sec 3.25.7 :STIME? Query bias time. :MVOLtage <NRf> Specify measure voltage; -1000 to 1000. +500V 3.25.10 :MVOLtage?
Page 212 IEEE-488 Reference Table 3-17 :UNIT command summary Power-up Command Description defaults :UNIT :TEMPerature <name> Select temperature units (C, CEL, F, FAR, K). :TEMPerature? Query temperature units. 3-61...
Page 213: Calculate Subsystems
IEEE-488 Reference 3.13 Calculate subsystems The commands in this subsystem are used to conﬁgure and control the three Calculate sub- systems and are summarized in Table 3-4. 3.13.1 :CALCulate[1] This subsystem is used to conﬁgure and control the Polynomial and Percent math calculations. Detailed information on math calculations is provided in paragraph 2.18.
Page 214: Data Commands
IEEE-488 Reference :MA2Factor <NRf> :CALCulate[1]:KMATh:MA2Factor <NRf> Specify "a2" factor Parameters <NRf> = -9.999999e20 to +9.999999e20 Query :MA2Factor? Query "a2" factor Description This command is used to specify the "a2" factor for the polynomial calculation. :PERCent <NRf> :CALCulate[1]:KMATh:PERCent <NRf> Specify Percent target value Parameters <NRf>...
Page 215 Program fragment PRINT #1, "output 27; :syst:pres?" ' Select defaults PRINT #1, "output 27; :trig:sour bus"' Place 6517A in one- ' shot measure mode SLEEP 3 Wait three seconds PRINT #1, "output 27; :calc:form pol"' Select polynomial math ' calculation PRINT #1, "output 27;...
Page 216: Calculate2
IEEE-488 Reference 3.13.2 :CALCulate2 This Calculate subsystem is used to conﬁgure and control CALC 2 operations on readings stored in the buffer. :FORMat <name> :CALCulate2:FORMat <name> Specify CALC 2 format Parameters <name> = MEAN Mean value of readings in buffer SDEVStandard deviation of readings in buffer MAXLargest reading in buffer MINLowest reading in buffer...
Page 217 ' Perform math and query ' result PRINT #1, "enter 27" ' Get response message from 6517A :DATA? :CALCulate2:DATA? Read CALC 2 result Description This query command is used to read the result of the CALC 2 operation. If CALC 2 is disabled or NONE is selected, the "raw"...
Page 218: Calculate3
IEEE-488 Reference 3.13.3 :CALCulate3 This Calculate subsystem is used to conﬁgure and control the limit tests (LIMIT 1 test and LIM- IT 2 test). See paragraph 2.19.6 for details on limit tests. [:DATA] <n> :CALCulate3:LIMit[1]:UPPer[:DATA] <n> Specify upper LIMIT 1 :CALCulate3:LIMit[1]:LOWer[:DATA] <n>...
Page 219 IEEE-488 Reference The parameter value for the digital pattern is determined by adding the decimal weights of the desired output lines. For example, if you want output lines #2 and #3 to go true when the upper limit of LIMIT 1 is the ﬁrst failure in the test sequence, use a parameter value of 6 (2+4). The actual true state (high or low) of each Digital Output line depends on its programmed po- larity.
Page 220 IEEE-488 Reference :CLEar commands [:IMMediate] :CALCulate3:LIMit[1]:CLEar[:IMMediate] Clear LIMIT 1 test failure :CALCulate3:LIMit2:CLEar[:IMMediate] Clear LIMIT 2 test failure Description These action commands are used to clear the fail indication of LIMIT 1 and LIMIT 2 tests. Note that a failure is also cleared when the limit test is disabled (:STATe OFF). :AUTO ...
Page 221 Note that sending the :IMMediate command does not ini- tiate a reading conversion. Program fragment PRINT #1, "output 27; :trig:sour bus" ' Place 6517A in one-shot mode SLEEP 3 ' Wait three seconds PRINT #1, "output 27;...
Page 222: Calibration Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference 3.14 :CALibration subsystem There are two calibrate commands that are accessible to the operator. These commands are used to null out input bias current and voltage burden. These commands are summarized in Table 3-5. To calibrate the instrument, refer to the Model 6517 Service Manual. :VOFFset :CALibration:UNPRotected:VOFFset Null voltage burden...
Page 223: Display Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference 3.15 :DISPlay subsystem The display subsystem controls the display of the Model 6517A and is summarized in Table 3-6. :TEXT commands :DATA <a> :DISPlay[:WINDow[1]]:TEXT:DATA <a> Deﬁne message; top display :DISPlay:WINDow2:TEXT:DATA <a> Deﬁne message; bottom display Parameters <a> = ASCII characters for message Types: String 'aa...a' or "aa...a"...
Page 224: Main Menu
These query commands are used to read what is currently being displayed on the top and bottom displays. After sending one of these commands and addressing the Model 6517A to talk, the dis- played data (message or reading) will be sent to the computer.
Page 225 IEEE-488 Reference Description This command is used to enable/disable the status message mode. The status message mode is a diagnostic tool that provides real-time messages that relate to the current operating state of the instrument. Table 2-5 lists the status messages. :ENABle ...
Page 226: Format Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference 3.16 :FORMat subsystem The commands for this subsystem are used to select the data format for transferring instrument readings over the bus. The BORDer command and DATA command affect readings transferred from the buffer ONLY. (i.e. SENSE: DATA? or CALC:DATA? is always be sent in ASCII.) These commands are summarized in Table 3-7.
Page 227: Ascii Data Format
IEEE-488 Reference Reading Channel External Relative V-Source Reading Time Stamp* Number Number Temp Humidity (%) (Operate) ±1234.567E±00NVDC,09:21:44.00,14-Sep-1994,±01234rdg#,400extchan,±0025.0Cexttemp,+065.3hum,±0010.000Vsrc Exponent Time Date Units Units: Units Units C = °C Units: F = °F VDC = Volts K = K ADC = Amps Units: OHM = Ohms extchan = External Channel...
Page 228: Elements
IEEE-488 Reference Header Byte 1 Byte 2 Byte 7 Byte 8 Bytes 3, 4, 5, and 6 not shown. s = sign bit (0 = positive, 1 = negative) e = exponent bits (11) f = fraction bits (52) Normal byte order shown. For swapped byte order, bytes sent in reverse order: Header, Byte 8, Byte 7 ..

Page 229 IEEE-488 Reference stored in the buffer. When buffer readings are sent over the bus (:TRACe:DATA?), each reading number is referenced to the ﬁrst reading, which is #0, stored in the buffer. If using Pre-trigger to store readings, the pre-trigger readings are assigned negative numbers. UNITs: This element attaches the function unit to the reading, the time unit (sec) to the times- tamp, and the channel unit (internal or external) to the channel number.
Page 230 IEEE-488 Reference :BORDer <name> :FORMat:BORDer <name> Specify binary byte order Parameters <name> = NORMal Normal byte order for binary formats SWAPped Reverse byte order for binary formats Query :BORDer? Query byte order Description This command is used to control the byte order for the IEEE754 binary formats. For normal byte order, the data format for each element is sent as follows: Byte 1 Byte 2 Byte 3...
Page 231: Output Subsystems
IEEE-488 Reference 3.17 Output Subsystems The Output subsystems are used to control the V-Source (standby or operate), and set polarities for the digital output port. Commands for these subsystems are summarized in Table 3-8. :OUTPut1 Subsystem [:STATe] :OUTPut1:[:STATe] Control V-Source Parameters ...
Page 232: Route Subsystem
The :CLOSe <list> command is used to close a channel on an optional scanner card installed in the Model 6517A. Only one channel can be closed at a time. Thus, for this command, the chan- list must consist of only one channel. When this command is sent, any other closed channel will ﬁrst open and then the speciﬁed channel will close.
Page 233: Open:all
See the :CLOSe command for examples to express a chanlist. After sending this query command and addressing the Model 6517A to talk, the values for the speciﬁed channels are sent to the computer. A value of "1" indicates that the channel is open, and a "0"...
Page 234 The Model 6517A can operate with an external switch system, such as the Keithley Model 7001 or 7002. The Model 6517A can measure up to 400 channels that are switched by the external switching system. This command is used to specify the number of external channels to scan.
Page 235 IEEE-488 Reference Description This command is used to select the switching method during an internal scan. The VOLTage method ensures that each switch will open (break) before the next switch in the scan closes (make). This method ensures that two or more channels cannot be closed at the same time. Use the CURRent switching method for optimum speed in applications where "break-before- make"...
Page 236: Sense1 Subsystem
This Sense 1 Subsystem is used to conﬁgure and control the measurement functions of the Mod- el 6517A (volts, amps, ohms and coulombs). Note that a function does not have to be selected in order to program its various conﬁgurations. When the function is later selected, it assumes the programmed states.
Page 237 Sending this query command before the instrument is ﬁnished processing previous commands will cause the Model 6517A to lock up. One way to prevent this is to insert an appropriate delay in the program. The required delay can be up to six seconds. Program Fragment 1 shows how to use a speciﬁc delay with the :FRESh? command.
Page 238: Aperture
Query maximum aperture value. Description The integration period (measurement speed) for the Model 6517A can be set using either of two commands; NPLCycle (paragraph 3.19.5) or :APERture. The NPLC method speciﬁes the inte- gration period as the number of power line cycles per integration, while aperture speciﬁes the time (in seconds) per integration.

Page 239 IEEE-488 Reference When the integration period is set using the :APERture command, the value for the :NPLCycle command changes accordingly to reﬂect the new integration period. Conversely, if the integra- tion period is set using the :NPLCycle command, the value for the :APERture command chang- es accordingly.
Page 240: Nplcycles
Query maximum NPLC value Description The integration period (measurement speed) for the Model 6517A can be set using either of two commands; :APERture (paragraph 3.19.4) or :NPLCycle. Aperture speciﬁes time (in seconds) per integration, while NPLC expresses the integration period by basing it on the power line fre- quency.

Page 241: Range Commands
The range is selected by specifying the expected reading as an absolute value. The Model 6517A will then go to the most sensitive range that will accommodate that expected read- ing. For example, if you expect a reading of approximately 10mA, simply let the parameter (<n>) = 0.01 (or 10e-3) in order to select the 20mA range.
Page 242 IEEE-488 Reference strument must currently be on the speciﬁed function in order for ONCE to be effective. Using ONCE while on any other function results in an error. The autorange command (:RANGe:AUTO) is coupled to the command that manually selects the measurement range (:RANGe <n>).
Page 243 IEEE-488 Reference Parameters <n> = 0 to 210 Range limit for volts 0 to 21e-3 Range limit for amps DEFault 210 (volts) 21e-3 (amps) MINimum 0 (volts and amps) MAXimum Same as DEFault Query :ULIMit? Query upper range limit :ULIMit? DEFault Query *RST default upper limit :ULIMit? MINimum...
Page 244 These commands are used to manually select the measurement range for the ohms function. The range is selected by specifying the expected reading as an absolute value. The Model 6517A will then go to the most sensitive range that will accommodate that expected reading. For example, if you expect a reading of approximately 100MΩ, simply let the parameter (<n>) = 100e6 in...
Page 245 IEEE-488 Reference :LLIMit <n> [:SENSe[1]:RESistance[:AUTO]:RANGe:AUTO:LLIMit <n> Set lower limit for Auto V-Source Ohms Parameters <n> = 0 to 100e18 Range limit for Auto V-Source Ohms DEFault 100e18 MINimum MAXimum Same as DEFault Query :ULIMit? Query upper range limit :ULIMit? DEFault Query *RST default upper limit :ULIMit? MINimum Query lowest allowable upper limit...
Page 246: Reference
IEEE-488 Reference :VSOurce[:AMPLitude] <n> [:SENSe[1]:RESistance:MANual:VSOurce[:AMPLitude] <n> Set V-Source level for Manual V-Source Ohms Parameters <n> = -100 to 100 Set voltage for 100V range -1000 to 10000 Set voltage for 1000V range DEFault MINimum Greatest allowable negative value MAXimum Greatest allowable positive value Query [:AMPLitude]? Query programmed V-Source level...

Page 247 IEEE-488 Reference Query :REFerence? Query programmed reference value :REFerence? DEFault Query *RST default reference value :REFerence? MINimum Query lowest allowable reference value :REFerence? MAXimum Query largest allowable reference value Description These commands are used to establish a reference value for the speciﬁed function. When Ref- erence is enabled (see :REFerence:STATe), the result will be the algebraic difference between the input signal and the reference value: Reading = Input signal - Reference...
Page 248: Ireference
IEEE-488 Reference overﬂowed ("OFLO") or a reading has not been triggered ("----"), an error occurs when this command is sent. The :ACQuire command is coupled to the :REFerence <n> command. See the description for :REFerence for details. 3.19.8 :IREFerence [:SENSe[1]]:RESistance:IREFerence ...

Page 249: Average Commands
IEEE-488 Reference :AUTO |ONCE [:SENSe[1]]:VOLTage[:DC]:DIGits:AUTO |ONCE Control auto resolution; Volts [:SENSe[1]]:CURRent[:DC]:DIGits:AUTO |ONCE Control auto resolution; Amps [:SENSe[1]:RESistance:DIGits:AUTO |ONCE Control auto resolution; Ohms [:SENSe[1]]:CHARge:DIGits:AUTO |ONCE Control auto resolution; Coulombs Parameters = 1 or ON Enable auto resolution 0 or OFF Disable auto resolution ONCE Enable and then disable auto resolution...
Page 250: Count
IEEE-488 Reference :TCONtrol <name> [:SENSe[1]]:VOLTage[:DC]:AVERage:TCONtrol <name> Select ﬁlter mode; Volts [:SENSe[1]]:CURRent[:DC]:AVERage:TCONtrol <name> Select ﬁlter mode; Amps [:SENSe[1]:RESistance:AVERage:TCONtrol <name> Select ﬁlter mode; Ohms [:SENSe[1]]:CHARge:AVERage:TCONtrol <name> Select ﬁlter mode; Coulombs Parameters <name> = REPeat Select repeating ﬁlter mode MOVing Select moving ﬁlter mode Query :TCONtrol? Query ﬁlter mode...

Page 251: Median Commands
IEEE-488 Reference Attempting to set STATe to ON with TYPE at NONE and MED:STAT at OFF will generate a “Setting Conﬂict Error”. Setting STATe to ON during a scan or test sequence will change TCON to REPeat. :NTOLerance <n> [:SENSe[1]]:VOLTage[:DC]:AVERage:ADVanced:NTOLerance <n> Specify noise tolerance for Volts [:SENSe[1]]:CURRent[:DC]:AVERage:ADVanced:NTOLerance <n>...
Page 252: Damping
IEEE-488 Reference Setting STATe to OFF with AVER:TYPE set to NONE will set AVER:STAT to OFF. :RANK <NRf> [:SENSe[1]]:VOLTage[:DC]:MEDian:RANK <NRf> Specify median rank for Volts [:SENSe[1]]:CURRent[:DC]:MEDian:RANK <NRf> Specify median rank for Amps [:SENSe[1]]:RESistance:MEDian:RANK <NRf> Specify median rank for Ohms [:SENSe[1]]:CHARge:MEDian:RANK <NRf> Specify median rank for Coulombs Parameters <NRf>...

Page 253: Adischarge Commands
IEEE-488 Reference 3.19.14 :ADIScharge Commands Auto discharge is used to reset the charge reading to zero. See paragraph 2.8 for more informa- tion. [:STATe] [:SENSe[1]]:CHARge:ADIScharge[:STATe] Control auto discharge Parameters = 1 or ON Enable auto discharge 0 or OFF Disable auto discharge Query [:STATe]?
Page 254: Mselect
Test Fixture, the measurement type (surface or volume) is automatically sensed by the Model 6517A through the safety interlock cable. Also, when using the Model 8009, you do not need to use the :USER commands (:RSELect, :KSURface and :KVOLume).

Page 255 Query switch setting on Model 8009 Description When using the Model 8009 Resistivity Test Fixture, the Model 6517A senses the switch setting (Surface or Volume) of the test ﬁxture through the safety interlock cable and automatically con- ﬁgures the instrument for that resistivity measurement type.
Page 256 IEEE-488 Reference :KVOLume <NRf> [:SENSe[1]]:RESistance:RESistivity:USER:KVOLume <NRf> Specify Kv parameter for volume resistivity Parameters <NRf> = 0.001 to 999.999 Kv parameter Query :KVOLume? Query programmed Kv parameter Description This command is used to specify the Kv parameter for volume resistivity measurements when using a user-supplied test ﬁxture.
Page 257: Source Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference 3.20 :SOURce subsystem This subsystem is used to set the logic level (true or false) of each digital output line, and is used to conﬁgure the V-Source. Note that the V-Source is controlled (standby/operate) from the :OUTput1 subsystem. The commands for this subsystem are summarized in Table 3-11.
Page 258 IEEE-488 Reference Note that the amplitude level is limited by the selected range and programmed voltage limit (see :RANGe and :LIMit). When on the 100V range, attempts to set the amplitude to a level that ex- ceeds the 100V range will result in a Setting Conﬂicts error. Attempts to set an amplitude that exceeds a programmed voltage limit will set the amplitude to that limit.
Page 259 IEEE-488 Reference :LIMit:STATe :SOURce:VOLTage:LIMit:STATe Control voltage limit Parameters = 0 or OFF Disable voltage limit 1 or ON Enable voltage limit Query :STATe? Query state of voltage limit Description This command is used to enable or disable voltage limit. When enabled, the programmed volt- age limit is in effect.
Page 260: Status Subsystem
These query commands are used to read the event registers. After sending one of these com- mands and addressing the Model 6517A to talk, a decimal value is sent to the computer. The binary equivalent of this value determines which bits in the appropriate register are set. The event registers are shown in Figures 3-22 through 3-27.
Page 261: Figure 3-22 Measurement Event Register
Bit B13, Fixture Lid Closed — Set bit indicates that a ﬁxture using the interlock cable is closed. If no interlock cable is connected to the 6517A, bit is also set. If the interlock cable is connected to the 6517A but not to the ﬁxture, bit is not set (PTR).
Page 262 IEEE-488 Reference Questionable Event Register: Bit B0, Volts Summary (Volt) — Set bit indicates that an invalid volts measurement has oc- curred (PTR), or a subsequent valid volts measurement has occurred (NTR). Bit B1, Amps Summary (Amp) — Set bit indicates that an invalid amps measurement has oc- curred, or a subsequent valid amps measurement has occurred (NTR).
Page 263: Figure 3-24 Operation Event Register
(2 ) Value Events : Seq = Sequence Test Running Value : 1 = Operation Event Set Idle = Idle state of the 6517A 0 = Operation Event Cleared Calc = Calculating Reading Arm = Waiting for Arm Trig = Waiting for Trigger...
Page 264: Figure 3-25 Trigger Event Register
IEEE-488 Reference Trigger Event Register: Bit B0 — Not used. Bit B1, Sequence 1 (Seq1) — Set bit indicates that the instrument is in the trigger layer (PTR), or that the instrument has exited from the trigger layer (NTR). Bits B12 through B14 — Not used Bit B15 —...
Page 265: Enable
IEEE-488 Reference Sequence Event Register: Bit B0 — Not used. Bit B1, Layer 1 (Lay1) — Set bit indicates that instrument operation is in arm layer 1 (PTR), or that operation has exited from arm layer 1 NTR). Bit B2, Layer 2 (Lay2) — Set bit indicates that instrument operation is in arm layer 2 (PTR), or that operation has exited from arm layer 2 NTR).

Page 266: Figure 3-28 Measurement Event Enable Register
IEEE-488 Reference tus structure. Conversely, when a bit in an event enable register is set (1), the corresponding bit in the event register is unmasked. When the unmasked bit in the event register sets, the summary bit of the next register set in the status structure will set. The decimal weighting of the bits for each event enable register are included in Figures 3-28 through 3-33.
Page 267: Figure 3-30 Operation Event Enable Register
(2 ) Value Events : RS-232 = RS-232 Interface Error Value : 1 = Enable Operation Event Idle = Idle state of the 6517A 0 = Disable (Mask) Operation Event Arm = Waiting for Arm Trig = Waiting for Trigger...
Page 268: Ptransition
IEEE-488 Reference Bit Position B15 - B3 Event Lay2 Lay1 Decimal Weighting (2 ) (2 ) Value Value : 1 = Enable Sequence Event Events : Lay1 = Layer 1 0 = Disable (Mask) Sequence Event Lay2 = Layer 2 Figure 3-33 Sequence Event Enable Register 3.21.3...

Page 269: Figure 3-34 Measurement Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Measurement Event Register: Positive transition effect on Measurement event Measurement Event Register Reading overﬂow Sets B0 when reading exceeds range limits. Low limit 1 Sets B1 when reading is less than the low limit 1 setting. High limit 1 Sets B2 when reading is greater than the low limit 1 setting.
Page 270: Questionable Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Questionable Event Register: Positive transition effect on Questionable event Questionable Event Register Volts Summary Sets B0 when an invalid volts measurement occurs. Amps Summary Sets B1 when an invalid amps measurement occurs. Temperature Summary Sets B4 when an invalid external temperature reading occurs.
Page 271: Operation Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Operation Event Register: Positive transition effect on Operation event Operation Event Register Calibrating Sets B0 at the start of calibration. Trigger layer Sets B5 when waiting in the Trigger Layer. Arm layer Sets B6 when waiting in an arm layer.
Page 272: Figure 3-37 Trigger Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Trigger Event Register: Positive transition effect on Trigger event Trigger Event Register Sequence 1 Sets B1 when waiting in Trigger Layer. Bit Position B15 - B2 Event Seq1 Decimal Weighting (2 ) Value Value : 1 = Enable Positive Transition 0 = Disable Positive Transition...
Page 273: Figure 3-38 Arm Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Arm Event Register: Positive transition effect on Arm event Arm Event Register Sequence 1 Sets B1 when in an arm layer. Bit Position B15 - B2 Event Seq1 Decimal Weighting (2 ) Value Value : 1 = Enable Positive Transition 0 = Disable Positive Transition...
Page 274: Figure 3-39 Sequence Transition Filter
IEEE-488 Reference Effects of positive transitions on the Sequence Event Register: Positive transition effect on Sequence event Sequence Event Register Layer 1 Sets B1 when in Arm Layer 1. Layer 2 Sets B2 when in Arm Layer 2. Bit Position B15 - B3 Event Lay2...
Page 275: Ntransition
IEEE-488 Reference 3.21.4 :NTRansition <NRf> :STATus:MEASurement:NTRansition <NRf> Program Measurement Transition Filter (NTR). :STATus:QUEStionable:NTRansition <NRf> Program Questionable Transition Filter (NTR). :STATus:OPERation:NTRansition <NRf> Program Operation Transition Filter (NTR). :STATus:OPERation:TRIGger:NTRansition <NRf> Program Trigger Transition Filter (NTR). :STATus:OPERation:ARM:NTRansition <NRf> Program Arm Transition Filter (NTR). :STATus:OPERation:ARM:SEQuence:NTRansition <NRf>...

Page 276 IEEE-488 Reference Effects of negative transitions on the Measurement Event Register: Negative transition effect on Measurement event Measurement Event Register Reading overﬂow Sets B0 when a reading has gone from overﬂow to normal. Low limit 1 Sets B1 when the reading is no longer less than the low limit 1 setting.
Page 277: Condition
ﬁlters. Thus, only the PTR descriptions apply to the condition registers. After sending one of these commands and addressing the Model 6517A to talk, a decimal value is sent to the computer. The binary equivalent of this decimal value indicates which bits in the register are set.
Page 278: Queue Commands
(+) numbers are used for Keithley deﬁned messages. The mes- sages are listed in Table 2-5. After this command is sent and the Model 6517A is addressed to talk, the "oldest" message in the queue is sent to the computer.
Page 279 Program fragment PRINT #1, "output 27; :stat:que: ' Disable messages and query dis(-140:-150); dis?" PRINT #1, "enter 27" ' Get response message from 6517A :CLEar :STATus:QUEue:CLEar Clear Error Queue Description This action command is used to clear the Error Queue of messages.
Page 280: System Subsystem
:SYSTem:VERSion? Read SCPI version Description This query command is used to read the version of the SCPI standard being used by the Model 6517A. Example code: 1991.0 The above response message indicates the version of the SCPI standard. 3.22.4 :ERRor?
Page 281: Lsync:state
IEEE-488 Reference The messages in the queue are preceded by a number. Negative (-) numbers are used for SCPI deﬁned messages, and positive (+) numbers are used for Keithley deﬁned messages. Table 2-5 lists the messages. NOTE: The :SYSTem:ERRor? query command performs the same function as the :STA- Tus:QUEue? query command (see STATus subsystem).

Page 282: Clear
The queue for the :KEY? query command can only hold one key-press. When :KEY? is sent over the bus, and the Model 6517A is addressed to talk, the key-press code number for the last key pressed (either physically or with :KEY) is sent to the computer.
Page 283: Date , ,
IEEE-488 Reference 3.22.8 :DATE <yr>, <mo>, <day> :SYSTem:DATE <yr>, <mo>, <day> Set date for clock Parameters <yr> = 1994 to 2093 Specify year <mo> = 1 to 12 Specify month <day> = 1 to 31 Specify day Query :DATE? Query the date Description This command is used to set the date for the real-time clock.

Page 284: Rnumber:reset
IEEE-488 Reference :RELative:RESet :SYSTem:TSTamp:RELative:RESet Reset relative timestamp to 0. Description This action command is used to reset the relative-time timestamp to zero seconds. 3.22.11 :RNUMber:RESet :SYSTem:RNUMber:RESet Reset reading number to zero Description When the reading number is included as a GPIB data element (see paragraph 3.16; :FOR- MAT:ELEMents), each reading sent over the bus is assigned a number starting at #0.
Page 285: A/D Controls
This command is used to control humidity readings. When enabled (and the Model 6517-RH connected to the instrument), the Model 6517A will make humidity readings. Note that HUMid- ity has to be a selected data element in order to include the humidity reading in the data string.
Page 286: Interface Commands
However, the user may wish to lock out front keys during RS-232 commu- nications (see :LLOCkout). This action command is used to take the Model 6517A out of the remote state and enables the operation of front panel keys. Note that this command can only be sent over the RS-232 interface.
Page 287 This command is used to specify the basic trigger mode. With CONTinuous triggering, the Model 6517A will continuous trigger readings after the selected source event occurs (see :SOURce). With ONEShot selected, a single reading will be triggered every time the selected source event occurs.
Page 288: Interlock
6517A. The response message is interpreted as follows: 1 = Interlock cable connected to the 6517A and ﬁxture, or not connected to 6517A at all. 0 = Interlock cable connected to 6517A but not connected to ﬁxture, or interlock cable connected to 6517A but ﬁxture lid is open.
Page 289: Points
This query command returns the number of readings that are currently stored in the buffer. After sending this command, the number of readings stored in the buffer will be sent to the computer when the Model 6517A is addressed to talk. This command can be used to monitor the storage process.

Page 290: Feed Commands
IEEE-488 Reference 3.23.4 :FEED Commands :[PERCent] <n> :TRACe:FEED:PRETrigger:AMOunt:[PERCent] <n> Specify percent of pre-trigger readings Parameters <n> = 0 to 100 % of buffer for pre-trigger readings DEFault 50% of buffer for pre-trigger readings MINimum 0% of buffer for pre-trigger readings MAXimum 100% of buffer for pre-trigger readings Query...
Page 291 IEEE-488 Reference :SOURce <name> :TRACe:FEED:PRETrigger:SOURce <name> Specify pre-trigger event Parameters <name> = EXTernal Use External Trigger as pre-trigger event TLINk Use Trigger Link as pre-trigger event Use bus trigger as pre-trigger event MANual Use TRIG key as pre-trigger event Query :SOURce? Query pre-trigger event source Description...
Page 292: Data
Send buffer readings Description When this command is sent and the Model 6517A is addressed to talk, all the readings stored in the buffer are sent to the computer. The format that readings are sent over the bus is controlled by the :FORMat subsystem.
Page 293: Trigger Subsystem
:ABORt Abort operation When this action command is sent, the Model 6517A aborts operation and returns to the top of the Trigger Model. If continuous initiation is disabled, the instrument goes the idle state. If con- tinuous initiation is enabled, operation continues on into Arm Layer 1.
Page 294: Immediate
IEEE-488 Reference 3.24.3 :IMMediate :ARM[:SEQuence[1]][:LAYer[1]]:IMMediate Bypass arm control source :ARM[:SEQuence[1]]:LAYer2:IMMediate Bypass scan control source and delay :TRIGger:[:SEQuence[1]]:IMMediate Bypass measure control source and delay Description These action commands are used to bypass the speciﬁed control source of the Trigger Model. They are used when you do not wish to wait for the programmed event. Note from the Trigger Model (Figure 3-14) that :arm:lay2:imm and :trig:imm also bypass the delay.
Page 295: Source
IEEE-488 Reference 3.24.6 :SOURce <name> :ARM[:SEQuence[1]][:LAYer[1]]:SOURce <name> Specify arm event control source :ARM[:SEQuence[1]]:LAYer2:SOURce <name> Specify scan event control source :TRIGger[:SEQuence[1]]:SOURce <name> Specify measure event control source Parameters <name> = HOLD Hold operation in speciﬁed layer IMMediate Pass operation through speciﬁed layer RTCLock Select real-time clock as event (Arm Layer 1 only) MANual...

Page 296: Signal
IEEE-488 Reference Description These commands are used to set the interval for the scan layer and measure layer timers. Note that the timer is in effect only if the timer is the selected control source. Also, note that the arm layer (Arm Layer 1) does not use a timer.
Page 297 IEEE-488 Reference ger Link output line. For all other control source selections, the output trigger pulse is available at the METER COMPLETE Output connector. The output trigger in these two layers is disabled when the source bypass is disabled. The output trigger in the measure layer is always enabled and occurs after the device action. With ACCeptor selected, the bypass is disabled, This simply means that operation will not pro- ceed through the speciﬁed layer until the appropriate event occurs.
Page 298: Rtclock Commands
IEEE-488 Reference :SSYNchronous:LINE <NRf> :TRIGger[:SEQuence[1]]:TCONﬁgure:SSYNchronous :LINE <NRf> Specify semi-synchronous Trigger Link line for measure layer Parameters <NRf> = 1 Line #1 <NRf> = 4 Line #4 2 Line #2 5 Line #5 3 Line #3 6 Line #6 Query :LINE? Query programmed output line # Parameters This command is used to select one of the six trigger lines for the semi-synchronous Trigger...
Page 299: Tsequence Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25 :TSEQuence Subsystem The commands in this subsystem are used to conﬁgure and control the built-in test sequences, and are summarized in Table 3-16. Detailed information on the test sequences are provided in paragraph 2.14. In your test programs, use the *OPC? command before arming (:TSEQuence:ARM) the test. The *OPC? command allows previous command operations to ﬁnish before arming the test.
Page 300: Start
IEEE-488 Reference :TSOurce <name> :TSEQuence:TSOurce <name> Select control source to start test Parameters <name> = MANual Manual control source IMMediate Immediate control source Bus trigger control source EXTernal External trigger control source TLINk Trigger link control source LCLosure Test ﬁxture lid closure Query :TSOurce? Query control source to start test...

Page 301: Stop
IEEE-488 Reference Query :STARt? Query stop voltage Description This conﬁguration command is used for the following tests: Diode Leakage Test Staircase Sweep Test This command is used to specify the start voltage for the speciﬁed test. 3.25.3 :STOP <NRf> :TSEQuence:DLEakage:STOP <NRf> Stop voltage;...

Page 302: Svoltage
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25.6 :SVOLtage <NRf> :TSEQuence:CLEakage:SVOLtage <NRf> Bias voltage; cap leakage test :TSEQuence:CIResistance:SVOLtage <NRf> Bias voltage; cable insulation res test :TSEQuence:RVCoefﬁcient:SVOLtage[1] <NRf> Bias voltage 1; Res voltage coef test :TSEQuence:RVCoefﬁcient:SVOLtage2 <NRf> Bias voltage 2; Res voltage coef test :TSEQuence:SRESistivity:SVOLtage <NRf> Bias voltage;...

Page 303: Dtime
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25.8 :DTIMe <NRf> :TSEQuence:SRESistivity:DTIMe <NRf> Discharge time; sur resistivity test :TSEQuence:VRESistivity :DTIMe <NRf> Discharge time; vol resistivity test Parameters <NRf> = 0 to 99999.9 (seconds) Query :DTIMe? Query discharge time Description This conﬁguration command is used for the following tests: Surface Resistivity Test Volume Resistivity Test This command is used to specify the discharge time for the speciﬁed test.

Page 304: Mtime
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25.11 :MTIMe <NRf> :TSEQuence:SRESistivity:MTIMe <NRf> Measure time; surface resistivity test :TSEQuence:VRESistivity:MTIMe <NRf> Measure time; volume resistivity test :TSEQuence:SIResistance:MTIMe <NRf> Measure time; surface insulation resistance test :TSEQuence:ALTPolarity:MTIMe <NRf> Measure time; alternating polarity test Parameters <NRf> = 0 to 9999.9 (seconds) Note: <NRf>...

Page 305: Ltime
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25.15 :LTIMe <NRf> :TSEQuence:SQSWeep:LTIMe <NRf> Low level time; square wave sweep test Parameters <NRf> = 0 to 9999.9 (seconds) Query :LTIMe? Query low level time Description This conﬁguration command is used for the following tests: Square Wave Sweep Test This command is used to specify the low level time for the square wave sweep test.

Page 306: Discard
IEEE-488 Reference 3.25.20 :DISCard <NRf> :TSEQuence:ALTPolarity:DISCard <NRf> Specify number of readings to initially discard Parameters <NRf> = 0 to 9999 Number of readings to discard Query :DISCard? Query number of discarded readings Description This command is used to specify the number of initial readings to discard for the Alternating Polarity Resistance/Resistivity test.

Page 307: Unit Subsystem
IEEE-488 Reference ' Set to send ascii readings: CALL send(27, ":FORM:DATA ASCII", status%) CALL send(27, ":FORM:ELEM READ", status%) ' Select autoranging amps: CALL send(27, ":SENS:FUNC 'CURR'", status%) CALL send(27, ":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO ON", status%) ' Configure Staircase Sweep from 0V to 20V in 2V steps: CALL send(27, ":TSEQ:TYPE STSW", status%) CALL send(27, ":TSEQ:STSW:STAR 0", status%) CALL send(27, ":TSEQ:STSW:STOP 20", status%)
Page 308: Serial Interface
PARITY tening device, such as a serial printer. • Select NONE, ODD or EVEN The serial port of the Model 6517A can be connected to the • Select STOP serial port of a computer for send/receive operation, or to a •...
Page 309: Interface Error Messages
X_ON (^Q) and X_OFF (^S) characters. If the +805 "Invalid system communication" — RS-232 inter- input queue of the Model 6517A becomes more that 3/4 full face selection lost on power-up. Instrument defaults (2048 characters maximum), the instrument issue an X_OFF to GPIB.
Page 310 Speciﬁcations...
Page 311 Specifications...
Page 312 Specifications VOLTS ACCURACY TEMPERATURE (1 Year) 1 COEFFICIENT ⁄ -DIGIT 18°–28°C 0°–18°C & 28°–50°C RANGE RESOLUTION ±(%rdg+counts) ±(%rdg+counts)/°C 10 µV 0.025 + 4 0.003 + 2 20 V 100 µV 0.025 + 3 0.002 + 1 200 V 1 mV 0.06 + 3 0.002 + 1 1 When properly zeroed, 5...
Page 313: Voltage Source
The alternating polarity sequence compensates for the background (offset) currents of the material or device under test. Maximum tolerable offset up to full scale of the current range used. Using Keithley 8002A or 8009 fixture REPEATABILITY: ∆I BG × R/V ALT + 0.1% (1σ) (instrument temperature constant ±1°C).
Page 314 Specifications IEEE-488 BUS IMPLEMENTATION MULTILINE COMMANDS: DCL, LLO, SDC, GET, GTL, UNT, UNL, SPE, SPD. IMPLEMENTATION: SCPI (IEEE-488.2, SCPI-1993); DDC (IEEE-488.1). UNILINE COMMANDS: IFC, REN, EOI, SRQ, ATN. INTERFACE FUNCTIONS: SH1, AH1, T5, TE0, L4, LE0, SR1, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT1, C0, E1. PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Function, Range, Zero Check, Zero Suppress, EOI (DDC mode only), Trigger, Terminator (DDC mode only), 100-Reading Storage (DDC mode), 15706 Max.
Page 315: Accuracy Calculations
Specifications Accuracy calculations A.1.3 Calculating ohms accuracy The following information shows how to calculate ohms ac- The information shows how to calculate accuracy for volts, curacy for both Auto V-Source Ohms and Manual V-Source amps, ohms and coulombs. Ohms. Auto V-Source ohms A.1.1 Calculating volts accuracy From the speciﬁcations, Auto V-Source Ohms accuracy is From the speciﬁcations, Volts is calculated as follows:...
Page 316: A.1.4 Calculating Coulombs Accuracy
Specifications A.1.5 Calculating Resistance/Resistivity Accuracy Note: 5 counts on the 200µA range equals 000.005µA and Repeatability using the Alternating Thus, the accuracy range for a 100.000µA reading is Polarity Method 99.895µA to 100.105µA. From the speciﬁcations, accuracy and repeatability when using V-Source accuracy (100V on the 100V range) is calculated a Model 8002A or 8009 test ﬁxture are calculated as follows: as follows:...
Page 317: B Interface Function Codes
The instrument has been addressed to talk. interface function codes for the Model 6517A are listed in Table B-1. The codes deﬁne Model 6517A capabilities as L (Listener Function) — The ability for the instrument to...
Page 318: Ascii Character Codes And Ieee-488 Multiline
ASCII Character Codes and IEEE-488 Multiline Interface Command Messages IEEE-488 IEEE-488 Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* * Message sent or received with ATN true.
Page 319 ASCII Character Codes and IEEE-488 Multiline Interface Command Messages IEEE-488 IEEE-488 Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* MLA 0 MTA 0 MLA 1 MTA 1 ” MLA 2 MTA 2 MLA 3 MTA 3 MLA 4 MTA 4 MLA 5 MTA 5 &...
Page 320 ASCII Character Codes and IEEE-488 Multiline Interface Command Messages IEEE-488 IEEE-488 Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Messages* « MSA 0, PPE MSA 16, PPD MSA 1, PPE MSA 17, PPD MSA 2, PPE MSA 18, PPD MSA 3, PPE MSA 19, PPD MSA 4, PPE MSA 20, PPD...
Page 321: Dieee-488 Bus Overview
IEEE-488 Bus Overview Introduction 4. The talker, aware that the data has been accepted, stops sending data and indicates that data is not being sent. Basically, the IEEE-488 bus is simply a communication sys- 5. The listener, aware that there is no data on the bus, indi- tem between two or more electronic devices.
Page 322: Bus Lines
(COMPUTER) mode called secondary addressing. Secondary addresses lie DATA BUS in the range of $60-$7F. Note, however, that many devices, including the Model 6517A, do not use secondary addressing. DEVICE 2 ABLE TO TALK AND Once a device is addressed to talk or listen, the appropriate LISTEN bus transactions take place.
Page 323: Bus Commands
IEEE-488 Bus Overview EOI (End or Identify) — The EOI is usually used to mark the device will release NDAC at its own rate, but NDAC will not end of a multi-byte data transfer sequence. be released to go high until all devices have accepted the data byte.
Page 324 IEEE-488 Bus Overview Table D-1 IEEE-488 bus command summary State of Command type Command ATN line Comments Uniline REN (Remote Enable) Set up devices for remote operation. Marks end of transmission. IFC (Interface Clear) Clears interface. ATN (Attention) Deﬁnes data bus contents. Controlled by external device.
Page 325 Many de- has requested service. vices (including the Model 6517A) do not use these com- mands. SPD (Serial Poll Disable) — SPD is used by the controller to...
Page 326: Figure D-3 Command Codes
IEEE-488 Bus Overview Table D-2 Hexadecimal and decimal command codes Decimal Command Hex value value 20-3F 32-63 40-5F 64-95 60-7F 96-127 Figure D-3 Command codes...
Page 327: Table D-3 Typical Addressed Command Sequence
IEEE-488 Bus Overview Table D-2 Hexadecimal and decimal command codes Decimal Command Hex value value 20-3F 32-63 40-5F 64-95 60-7F 96-127 Table D-3 Typical addressed command sequence Data bus Step Command ATN state ASCII Decimal Set low LAG* Stays low Stays low Returns high *Assumes primary address = 27.
Page 328: Table D-5 Ieee Command Groups
IEEE command groups Command groups supported by the Model 6517A are listed in Table D-5. Common commands and SCPI commands are not included in this list. Table D-5...
Page 329 IEEE-488 Conformance Information Information The IEEE-488.2 standard requires speciﬁc information about how the Model 6517A implements the standard. Paragraph 4.9 of the IEEE-488.2 standard (Std 488.2-1987) lists the documentation requirements. Table E-1 provides a summary of the require- ments, and provides the information or references the manual for that information.
Page 330 IEEE-488 Conformance Information Table E-1 (cont.) IEEE-488 documentation requirements Requirement Description or reference (16) Response to *IDN (identiﬁcation). See paragraph 3.11.4. (17) Storage area for *PUD and *PUD? Not applicable. (18) Resource description for *RDT and *RDT? Not applicable. (19) Effects of *RST, *RCL and *SAV.
Page 331: Table E-2 Coupled Commands
IEEE-488 Conformance Information Table E-2 Coupled commands Command Also changes :TRIG:COUN :TRAC:POIN:AUTO TRAC:POIN:AUTO is ON and TRIG:COUN is an illegal buffer size :TRAC:POIN TRIG:COUN TRAC:POIN:AUTO is :TRAC:FEED:PRET:AMO:READ TRIG:COUN * TRAC:POIN:AUTO is TRAC:FEED:PRET:A MO:PERC / 100 :TRAC:FEED:CONT :TRIG:SOUR TRAC:FEED:CONT is PRET and TRIG:SOUR is neither IMM nor TIM :TRAC:POIN :TRAC:POIN:AUTO...
Page 332 IEEE-488 Conformance Information Table E-2 (cont.) Coupled commands Command Also changes ...:DET:FUNC ...:APER varies per function ...APER:AUTO is ON ...:DIG varies per function ...DIG:AUTO is ON ...:AVER:STAT varies per function ...AVER:AUTO is ON ...:AVER:COUN n varies per function ...AVER:AUTO is ON ...:AVER:TCON n varies per function ...AVER:AUTO is ON...
Page 333 IEEE-488 Conformance Information Table E-2 (cont.) Coupled commands Command Also changes :ROUT:CLOS :ROUT:SCAN:LSEL NONE :ROUT:OPEN :ROUT:SCAN:LSEL NONE the command actually opens a channel :ROUT:OPEN:ALL :ROUT:SCAN:LSEL NONE :ROUT:SCAN:INT :ROUT:SCAN:LSEL ... = Valid function command words (i.e. :VOLT:DC, :RESistance, etc.)
Page 334: Scpi Conformance Information
SCPI Conformance Information Introduction The Model 6517A complies with SCPI version 1991.0. Ta- bles 3-4 through 3-16 list the SCPI conﬁrmed commands, and the non-SCPI commands implemented by the Model 6517A.
Page 335 Device Dependent Command Summary Mode Command Description Execute Execute other device-dependent commands. Function Volts Amps Ohms (V/I) Coulombs External feedback Ohms (V/I) Range EXTERNAL VOLTS AMPS OHMS COULOMBS FEEDBACK Auto Auto Auto Auto Auto 20pA 200TΩ 20pA 20TΩ 200pA 2TΩ 20nC 200V 2nA 200GΩ...
Page 336 Device Dependent Command Summary Mode Command Description Reading Mode Electrometer Buffer reading Maximum reading Minimum reading Voltage source Data Store Conversion rate One reading per second One reading every 10 seconds One reading per minute One reading every 10 minutes One reading per hour Trigger mode Disabled...
Page 337 Device Dependent Command Summary Mode Command Description Status Word Status word: 617 FRRCZNTOBGDQMMKYY* Error conditions Data conditions Buffer size and readings stored Top display data Bottom display data Attributes of top display characters** Attributes of bottom display characters** *YY: := LFCR CRLF None...
Page 338 Index Numerics :FEED Commands 3-139 :FORMat subsystem 3-75 2V analog output :FREE? 2-51 3-137 :FUNCtion <name> 3-85 Symbols :GUARd 3-101 :ABORt 3-142 :ADIScharge Commands :HLEVel <NRf> 3-153 3-102 :ALTVoltage <NRf> 3-154 :HTIMe <NRf> 3-153 :APERture <n> 3-87 :AVERage commands *IDN? —...
Page 339 :RNUMber:RESet Basic measurement procedure 3-133 2-18, 2-24, 2-43 :ROUTe subsystem Basic Trigger Commands 3-81 3-135 *RST — reset the Model 6517A Basic trigger configuration 3-33 2-76 Buffer 2-94 *SAV — save the current setup in memory Buffer multiple displays 3-33...
Page 340 Digital filters Information messages 2-101 Digital Output Commands Inspection 3-106 Display Interface Function Codes Display resolution Interlock and test fixtures 2-57 2-50 Downloading commands using ProComm Internal scanning 3-158 2-125 Electrochemical effects Light 2-127 2-127 Electromagnetic interference (EMI) LIMITS 2-128 2-118 Electrometer input circuitry Line fuse replacement...
Page 341 Queues TCONfigure commands 3-15 3-145 QuickBASIC 4.5 programming TEST 2-118 Test descriptions 2-60 Test fixtures 2-15 Test sequence programming example 3-155 Range and resolution Test sequences 2-57 2-60 RANGe commands Transition filters 3-90 3-14 Ratio Triboelectric effects 2-106 2-127 Relative (REL) Trigger Link 2-59 2-83...
Page 342 Service Form Model No. Serial No. Date Name and Telephone No. Company List all control settings, describe problem and check boxes that apply to problem. Intermittent Analog output follows display Particular range or function bad; specify IEEE failure Obvious problem on power-up Batteries and fuses are OK Front panel operational All ranges or functions are bad...
Page 343 C O N F I D E N C E Keithley Instruments, Inc. Corporate Headquarters • 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139 • 440-248-0400 • Fax: 440-248-6168 • 1-888-KEITHLEY (534-8453) • www.keithley.com Belgium: Sint-Pieters-Leeuw • 02-363 00 40 • Fax: 02-363 00 64 • www.keithley.nl Italy: Milano •...

Keithley 6517A User Manual

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