User Agilent E3640A Manual

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User’s Guide

Part Number: E3640-90001
June 2009.

For Safety information, Warranties, and Regulatory information,
see the pages behind the Index.
© Copyright Agilent Technologies 1999 - 2009
All Rights Reserved.

Agilent Technologies E364xA
Single Output DC Power Supplies

The Agilent Technologies E3640A/E3641A (30 watt), E3642A/E3643A (50 watt),
and E3644A/E3645A (80 watt) are high performance single-output dual range
programmable DC power supplies with GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. The
combination of bench-top and system features in these power supplies
provides versatile solutions for your design and test requirements.

Convenient bench-top features
• Single-output dual range
• Output on/off
• High accuracy and high resolution
• Excellent load and line regulation
• Low ripple and noise
• Overvoltage protection
• Five Operating states storage
• Easy-to-use controls
• Remote voltage sensing
• Front and Rear output terminals
• Portable, ruggedized case with non-skid feet
• Highly visible vacuum-fluorescent displays
• Error messages available on the display
Flexible system features
• GPIB (IEEE-488) and RS-232 interfaces are standard
• SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) compatibility
• I/O setup easily done from front-panel
• Software calibration, no internal physical adjustments

Agilent Technologies E364xA
Single Output DC Power Supplies

The Front Panel at a Glance

1
2
3
4
5
6

2

Low voltage range selection Key
High voltage range selection Key
Overvoltage protection Key
Display limit Key
Voltage/Current adjust selection Key
Stored state Recall/Reset Menu

7
8
9
10
11
12

State storage menu/Local Key
View menu/Calibrate Key
I/O Configuration menu/Secure Key
Output On/Off Key
Resolution selection Keys
Knob

Front-Panel Menu/Key Reference

This section gives an overview of the front-panel keys/menus. The menus are
designed to automatically guide you through all parameters required to
configure a particular function or operation.
1 Low voltage range selection key Selects the low voltage range and allows
its full rated output to the output terminals.
2 High voltage range selection key Selects the high voltage range and allows
its full rated output to the output terminals.
3 Overvoltage protection key Enables or disables the overvoltage protection
function, sets trip voltage level, and clears the overvoltage condition.
4 Display limit key Shows voltage and current limit values on the display and
allows the knob adjustment for setting limit values.
5 Voltage/Current adjust selection key Selects the knob control function for
voltage or current adjustment.
6 Stored state recall menu Recalls a stored operating state from location ‘‘1’’
through ‘‘5’’ and resets the power supply to the power-on state (*RST
command) from the front panel by selecting the ‘‘RESET’’ from this menu.
7 State storage menu / Local key1 Stores up to five power supply’s states in
non-volatile memory and assigns a name to each of the storage locations / or
returns the power supply to local mode from remote interface mode.
8 View menu / Calibrate key2 Views the error codes and the text of the error
message, calibration string, and system firmware revision / or enables
calibration mode.
9 I/O Configuration / Secure key3 Configures the power supply for remote
interfaces / or secures or unsecures the power supply for calibration.
10 Output On/Off key Enables or disables the power supply output. This key
toggles between on and off.
11 Resolution selection keys Move the flashing digit to the right or left and
adjust the scrolling speed of the text being displayed in the View menu.
12 Knob Increases or decreases the value of the flashing digit by turning
clockwise or counter clockwise.

The key can be used as the ‘‘Local’’ key when the power supply is in the remote
interface mode.
2
You can enable the ‘‘calibration mode’’ by holding down this key when you
turn on the power supply.
3You can use it as the ‘‘Secure’’ or ‘‘Unsecure’’ key when the power supply is
in the calibration mode.
1

3

Front-Panel Voltage and Current Limit Settings

You can set the voltage and current limit values from the front panel using the
following method.

Use the voltage/current adjust selection key, the resolution selection keys,
and the control knob to change the voltage and current limit values.

Low

Or

+

High

1 Select the desired voltage range using the voltage range selection keys after
turning on the power supply.
2 Press Display
key to show the limit values on the display.
Limit
3 Move the blinking digit to the appropriate position using the resolution
selection keys and change the blinking digit value to the desired voltage limit
key again.
by turning the control knob. If the display limit times out, press Display
Limit
Voltage
4 Set the knob to current control mode by pressing Current key.
5 Move the blinking digit to the appropriate position using the resolution
selection keys and change the blinking digit value to the desired current limit
by turning the control knob.
6 Press Output
key to enable the output. After about 5 seconds, the display will
On/Off
go to output monitoring mode automatically to display the voltage and current
at the output.

Note

All front panel keys and controls can be disabled with remote interface commands.
The power supply must be in "Local" mode for the front panel keys and controls to
function.

4

Display Annunciators

Adrs
Rmt
8V*
20V*
35V**
60V**
OVP

Power supply is addressed to listen or talk over a remote interface.
Power supply is in remote interface mode.
Shows the low voltage range is selected.
Shows the high voltage range is selected.
Shows the low voltage range is selected.
Shows the high voltage range is selected.
The overvoltage protection function is enabled when the
annunciator turns on or the overvoltage protection circuit has
caused the power supply to shutdown when the annunciator blinks.
CAL
The power supply is in calibration mode.
Limit
The display shows the limit values of voltage and current.
ERROR Hardware or remote interface command errors are detected and
the error bit has not been cleared.
OFF
The output of the power supply is disabled (See page 54 for more
information).
Unreg
The output of the power supply is unregulated (output is neither CV
nor CC).
CV
The power supply is in constant voltage mode.
CC
The power supply is in constant current mode.
To review the display annunciators, hold down
the power supply.

*For E3640A/42A/44A model.

Display
Limit

key as you turn on

**For E3641A/43A/45A model.
5

The Rear Panel at a Glance

Note: The supplier code of the C-Tick for the E3643A/45A is N10149.
1 AC inlet
2 Power-line fuse-holder assembly
3 Power-line module

4 RS-232 interface connector
5 GPIB (IEEE-488) interface connector
6 Rear output terminals

I/O
Use the front-panel Config
key to:
• Select the GPIB or RS-232 interface (see chapter 3).
• Set the GPIB address (see chapter 3).
• Set the RS-232 baud rate and parity (see chapter 3).

6

In This Book

Quick Start Chapter 1 helps you get familiar with a few of the power supply’s
the front panel feature.
General Information Chapter 2 contains a general description of your
power supply. This chapter also provides instructions for installation of your
power supply and the output connections.
Front-Panel Operation Chapter 3 describes in detail the use of front-panel
keys and how they are used to operate the power supply from the front panel.
This chapter also shows how to configure the power supply for the remote
interface and gives a brief introduction to the calibration features.
Remote Interface Reference Chapter 4 contains reference information to
help you program the power supply over the remote interface. This chapter
also explains how to program for status reporting.
Error Messages Chapter 5 lists the error messages that may appear as you
are working with the power supply. Each listing contains information to help
you diagnose and solve the problem.
Application Programs Chapter 6 contains some remote interface
applications to help you develop programs for your application.
Tutorial Chapter 7 describes basic operation of linear power supplies and
gives specific details on the operation and use of your power supply.
Specifications Chapter 8 lists the power supply’s specifications.
Service Information Contains guidelines to return your power supply to
Agilent Technologies for servicing, procedures for verification & calibration,
and schematics.
If you have questions relating to the operation of the power supply, call
1-800-829-4444 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent
Technologies Sales Office.
If your power supply fails within one year of purchase, Agilent will repair
or replace it free of charge. Call 1-800-258-5165 ("Express Exchange") in
the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office.

7

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and CEN/CENELEC EN 45014

Manufacturer’s Name and Addresss
Responsible Party
Agilent Technologies, Inc.
550 Clark Drive, Suite 101
Budd Lake, New Jersey 07828
USA

Alternate Manufacturing Site
Agilent Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd
Malaysia Manufacturing
Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, PH III
11900 Penang,
Malaysia

Declares under sole responsibility that the product as originally delivered
Product Name:

a) Single Output dc Power Supplies
b) Multiple Output dc Power Supplies
c) Single Output System Power Supply

Model Nu mber:

a) E3640A, E3641A, E3642A, E3643A, E3644A, E3645A
b) E3646A, E3647A, E3648A, E3649A
c) E3633A, E3634A

Product Options:

This declaration covers all options of the above product(s).

Complies with the essential requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC
Directive 89/336/EEC (including 93/68/EEC) and carries the CE Marking accordingly .
EMC Information

ISM Group 1 Class A Emissions

As detailed in

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Certificate of Conformance Number
CC/TCF/00/102 based on Technical Construction File (TCF) ANJ12, dated Dec
20, 2000.

Assessed by:

Celestica Ltd, Appointed Competent Body
Westfields House, West Avenue
Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent
Straffordshire, ST7 1TL
United Kingdom

Safety Information

and Conforms to the following safety standards.
IEC 61010-1:2001 / EN 61010-1:2001
CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1:1992

This DoC applies to above-listed products placed on the EU market after:

January 1, 2004
Date

Bill Darcy/ Regulations Manager

For further information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies sales office, agent or distributor, or
Agilent Technologies Deutschland GmbH, Herrenberger Stra βe 130, D71034 Böblingen, Germany

Revision: B.00.00

8

Issue Date: Created on 11/24/2003 3:07
PM

Document No. KIO_40-49.11.24.doc

Contents

17
18
18
19
20
21
23
24
29
29
30
30
30
31
33
33
33
34
34
35
35
36
38

Contents

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Preliminary Checkout- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Output Checkout- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Voltage Output Checkout - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Current Output Checkout - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - If the Power Supply Does Not Turn On - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Line Voltage Conversion- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To Adjust the Carrying Handle- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To Rack Mount the Instrument - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Chapter 2 General Information
Safety Considerations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Safety and EMC Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Options and Accessories - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Options- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Accessories - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Initial Inspection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cooling and Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Output Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Current Ratings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Voltage Drops - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Load Consideration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Remote Voltage Sensing Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Multiple Loads - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Front-Panel Operation Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Constant Voltage Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Constant Current Operation- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Configuring the Remote Interface - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - GPIB Configuration- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - RS-232 Configuration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Storing and Recalling Operating States - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Programming Overvoltage Protection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Setting the OVP Level and Enable the OVP Circuit - - - - - - - Checking OVP Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Clearing the Overvoltage Condition - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Disabling the Output- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Disconnecting the Output Using an External Relay - - - - - - -

41
42
44
46
46
47
48
50
50
51
51
54
54
9

Contents

Contents

System-Related Operations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 55
State Storage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 55
Self-Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 56
Error Conditions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 56
Firmware Revision Query - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 57
SCPI Language Version - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 57
GPIB Interface Reference - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 58
RS-232 Interface Reference- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 59
RS-232 Configuration Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 59
RS-232 Data Frame Format - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 59
Connection to a Computer or Terminal - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 60
RS-232 Troubleshooting- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 61
Calibration Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 62
Calibration Security - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 62
To Unsecure for Calibration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 63
To Secure Against Calibration- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 64
Calibration Count- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 65
Calibration Message- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 66
Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 69
Simplified Programming Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 74
Using the APPLy Command - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 74
Using the Low-Level Commands- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 74
Reading a Query Response - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 75
Selecting a Trigger Source- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 75
Power Supply Programming Ranges- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 76
Using the APPLy Command - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 77
Output Setting and Operation Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 78
Triggering- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 82
Trigger Source Choices - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 82
Triggering Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 84
System-Related Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 85
State Storage Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 88
Calibration Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 89
Interface Configuration Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 92
The SCPI Status Registers- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 93
What is an Event Register? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 93
What is an Enable Register? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 93
SCPI Status System - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 94
The Questionable Status Register - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 95
The Standard Event Register- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 96
10

Contents

Contents

The Status Byte Register- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 97
Using Service Request (SRQ) and Serial POLL - - - - - - - - - - - 98
Using *STB? to Read the Status Byte - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 99
Using the Message Available Bit (MAV)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 99
To Interrupt Your Bus Controller Using SRQ - - - - - - - - - - - - 99
To Determine When a Command Sequence is Completed - 100
Using *OPC to Signal When Data is in the Output Buffer - - 100
Status Reporting Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 101
An Introduction to the SCPI Language - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 103
Command Format Used in This Manual- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 104
Command Separators - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 105
Using the MIN and MAX Parameters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 105
Querying Parameter Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 106
SCPI Command Terminators - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 106
IEEE-488.2 Common Commands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 106
SCPI Parameter Types - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 107
Halting an Output in Progress - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 108
SCPI Conformance Information- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 109
IEEE-488 Conformance Information - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 112
Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 115
Self-Test Errors- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 120
Calibration Errors- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 121
Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for C and C++- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 125
Example Program for Excel 97 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 129
Chapter 7 Tutorial
Overview of this Power Supply Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 137
Output Characteristics - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 139
Unregulated State - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 141
Unwanted Signals - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 141
Extending the Voltage and Current Range - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 143
Series Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 143
Parallel Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 143
Remote Programming- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 144
Chapter 8 Specifications
Performance Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 149
Supplemental Characteristics - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 151
11

Contents

Appendix Service Information

Contents

Operating Checklist- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 157
Is the Power Supply Inoperative? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 157
Does the Power Supply Fail Self-Test? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 157
Types of Service Available - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 158
Standard Repair Service (worldwide)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 158
Express Exchange (U.S.A. only) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 158
Repacking for Shipment - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 159
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 160
Surface Mount Repair - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 160
To Replace the Power-Line Fuse - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 160
Troubleshooting Hints- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 161
Unit Reports Errors 740 to 750 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 161
Unit Fails Self-Test- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 161
Bias Supplies Problems - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 161
Self-Test Procedures - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 162
Power-On Self-Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 162
Complete Self-Test- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 162
General Disassembly- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 164
Recommended Test Equipment - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 165
Test Considerations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 166
Operation Verification and Performance Tests - - - - - - - - - - - - - 166
Measurement Techniques - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 167
Setup for Most Tests - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 167
Current-Monitoring Resistor - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 167
General Measurement Techniques - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 168
Electronic Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 168
Programming - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 168
Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 169
Constant Voltage Test Setup - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 169
Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy - - - - - - - - - - 169
CV Load Effect (Load Regulation) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 170
CV Source effect (Line Regulation)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 171
CV PARD (Ripple and Noise) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 171
Load Transient Response Time- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 173
Constant Current (CC) Verifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 174
Constant Current Test Setup- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 174
Current Programming and Readback Accuracy- - - - - - - - - - 174
CC Load Effect (Load Regulation) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 175
CC Source Effect (Line Regulation) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 176
CC PARD (Ripple and Noise) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 177
Common Mode Current Noise - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 178

12

Contents

179
179
180
181
181
181
181
182
183
187
188
188
189
190
191
192

Contents

Performance Test Record for Your Power Supply - - - - - - - - - CV Performance Test Record - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CC Performance Test Record - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Calibration Reference- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Agilent Technologies Calibration Services- - - - - - - - - - - - - Calibration Interval - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To Unsecure the Power Supply Without the Security Code
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Front Panel Voltage and Current Calibration- - - - - - - - - - - Calibration Record for Your Power Supply- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Calibration Error Messages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Schematics - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Component Locator (top) for main board assembly- - - - - Component Locator (bottom) for main board assembly- - Component Locator for front panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Index - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

13

Contents

Contents

14

1

Quick Start

Quick Start

One of the first things you will want to do with your power supply is to become
acquainted with the front panel. The exercises in this chapter prepare the
power supply for use and help you get familiar with some of its front-panel
operations.
This chapter is intended for both the experienced and the inexperienced user
because it calls attention to certain checks that should be made prior to
operation.

Throughout this chapter the key to be pressed is shown in the left margin.

16

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Preliminary Checkout

1
Preliminary Checkout
The following steps help you verify that the power supply is ready for use.
1 Check the list of supplied items.
Verify that you have received the following items with your power supply. If
anything is missing, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office.
One power cord for your location.
This User’s Guide.
Quick Reference Guide.
Certificate of Calibration.
2 Connect the power cord and turn on the power supply.
The front-panel display will light up briefly while the power supply performs
its power-on self-test. The GPIB address is also displayed. To review the poweras you turn on
on display with all annunciators turned on, hold down
the power supply. If the power supply does not turn on properly, see page 20.
3 Perform a complete self-test.
The complete self-test performs a more extensive set of tests than those
as you turn on the power supply and
performed at power-on. Hold down
hold down the key until you hear a long beep. The self-test will begin when
you release the key following the beep.
Display
Limit

Display
Limit

If the self-test fails, see the Service Information for instructions on returning
the power supply to Agilent Technologies for service.

Note

The power supply is shipped from the factory with a power-line cord that has a plug
appropriate for your location. Your power supply is equipped with a 3-wire grounding
type power cord; the third conductor being the ground. The power supply is grounded
only when the power-line cord is plugged into an appropriate receptacle. Do not
operate your power supply without adequate cabinet ground connection.

17

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Output Checkout

Output Checkout
The following procedures check to ensure that the power supply develops its
rated outputs and properly responds to operation from the front panel. For
complete performance and verification tests, refer to the Service Information.
Note: If an error has been detected during the output checkout procedures,
the ERROR annunciator will turn on. See "Error Messages" starting on page
113 in chapter 5 for more information.
Voltage Output Checkout

The following steps verify basic voltage functions with no load.
Power

1 Turn on the power supply.
The power supply will go into the power-on / reset state; the output is disabled
(the OFF annunciator turns on); its low voltage range is selected, and the OVP
annunciator and low voltage range indication annunciator turn on (for
example, 8V annunciator turns on for the E3640A model); and the knob is
selected for voltage control.
Output
On/Off

2 Enable the outputs.
The OFF annunciator turns off and the CV annunciator turns on. Notice that
the display is in the meter mode. ‘‘Meter mode’’ means that the display shows
the actual output voltage and current.
3 Check that the front-panel voltmeter properly responds to knob
control for both low and high voltage range.
Turn the knob clockwise or counter clockwise to check that the voltmeter
responds to knob control and the ammeter indicates nearly zero. The flashing
digit can be adjusted by turning the knob.

1

4 Ensure that the voltage can be adjusted from zero to the full rated
value by adjusting the knob.

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting the voltage.

1

18

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Output Checkout

1
Current Output Checkout

The following steps check basic current functions with a short across the
power supply’s output.
Power

1 Turn on the power supply.
Make sure that the output is disabled. The OFF annunciator is on
2 Connect a short across (+) and (-) output terminals with an insulated
test lead.
Use a wire size sufficient to handle the maximum current (See "Table 2-1 Wire
Rating" on page 34 in chapter 2).
Output
On/Off

Display
Limit

3 Enable the output.
The CV or CC annunciator turns on depending on the resistance of the test
lead. Notice that the display is in the meter mode.
4 Adjust the voltage limit value to 1.0 volt.
Set the display to the limit mode (the Limit annunciator will be flashing).
Adjust the voltage limit to 1.0 volt to assure CC operation. The CC annunciator
key again or let the
will turn on. To go back to normal mode, press the
display time out after several seconds.
Display
Limit

Voltage
Current

5 Set the knob to the current control to check that the front-panel
ammeter properly responds to knob control.
Turn the knob clockwise or counter clockwise when the display is in the meter
mode (the Limit annunciator is off). Check that the ammeter responds to knob
control and the voltmeter indicates nearly zero (the voltmeter will show the
voltage drop caused by the test lead). The flashing digit can be adjusted by
turning the knob.

1

6 Ensure that the current can be adjusted from zero to the full rated
value.
7 Turn off the power supply and remove the short from the output
terminals.

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting the current.

1

19

Chapter 1 Quick Start
If the Power Supply Does Not Turn On

If the Power Supply Does Not Turn On
Use the following steps to help solve problems you might encounter when
turning on the instrument. If you need more help, refer to chapter 5 for
instructions on returning the instrument to Agilent Technologies for service.
1 Verify that there is ac power to the power supply.
First, verify that the power cord is firmly plugged into the power receptacle on
the rear panel of the power supply. You should also make sure that the power
source you plugged the power supply into is energized. Then, verify that the
power supply is turned on.
2 Verify the power-line voltage setting.
The line voltage is set to the proper value for your country when the power
supply is shipped from the factory. Change the voltage setting if it’s not correct.
The settings are: 100, 115, or 230 Vac.
3 Verify that the correct power-line fuse is installed.
The correct fuse is installed for your country when the power supply is shipped
from the factory. See the table below to replace the fuse for your power supply.
Model

Agilent Part Number

Part Description

E3640A/41A

2110-1069

Fuse 1.5A T 125V for 100 and 115 Vac

E3640A/41A

2110-0457

Fuse 1A T 250V for 230 Vac

E3642A/43A

2110-1070

Fuse 2.5A T 125V for 100 and 115 Vac

E3642A/43A

2110-0457

Fuse 1A T 250V for 230 Vac

E3644A/45A

2110-1071

Fuse 3.15A T 125V for 100 and 115 Vac

E3644A/45A

2110-1068

Fuse 2A T 250V for 230 Vac

See the next page if you need to change the line voltage setting and the powerline fuse.

20

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Line Voltage Conversion

1
Line Voltage Conversion
Warning

Shock Hazard Operating personnel must not remove power supply covers.
Component replacement and internal adjustments must be made only by
qualified service personnel.
Line voltage conversion is accomplished by adjusting two components: the line
voltage selection switch and the power-line fuse on the rear panel.

1 Remove AC line power.
2 Remove the cover (Refer to General Disassembly on page 164).
3 Set two sections of the line voltage selector switch on the PC board for the
desired line voltage (See Figure 1-1 below).
4 See the next page to check the rating of the power-line fuse and replace with
the correct one if necessary.
5 Replace the cover and mark the power supply clearly with a tag or label
indicating the correct line voltage and fuse that is in use.

100V
115V
230V

(TOP VIEW)
Figure 1-1. Line Voltage Selector (set for 115Vac)

21

Chapter 1 Quick Start
Line Voltage Conversion

1 Remove the power cord. Remove
the fuse-holder assembly with a flatblade screwdriver from the rear panel.

2 Remove the fuse-holder from the
assembly.

3 Replace with the correct fuse.

4 Replace the fuse-holder assembly in
rear panel.

Verify that the correct line voltage is selected and the power-line fuse is good.

22

Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Adjust the Carrying Handle

1
To Adjust the Carrying Handle
To adjust the position, grasp the handle by the sides and pull outward. Then,
rotate the handle to the desired position.

Bench-top viewing positions

Carrying position

23

Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Rack Mount the Instrument

To Rack Mount the Instrument
You can mount the power supply in a standard 19-inch rack cabinet using one
of three optional kits available. Instructions and mounting hardware are
included with each rack-mounting kit. Any Agilent Technologies System II
instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the Agilent E3640A,
E3641A, E3642A, E3643A, E3644A, or E3645A.

Note: Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rubber bumpers,
before rack-mounting the instrument.

To remove the handle, rotate it to the vertical position and pull the ends outward.

Front

Rear (bottom view)

To remove the rubber bumper, stretch a corner and then slide it off.

24

Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Rack Mount the Instrument

1

To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 5063-9240.

To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and
flange kit 5063-9212. Be sure to use the support rails inside the rack cabinet.

To install two instruments in a sliding support shelf, order support shelf 5063-9255,
and slide kit 1494-0015.

25

Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Rack Mount the Instrument

26

2

General Information

General Information

This manual describes the operation of the Agilent Technologies Model
E3640A, E3641A, E3642A, E3643A, E3644A and E3645A DC power supplies.
This chapter contains a general description of your power supply. This chapter
also provides instructions for installation of your power supply and the output
connections. Unless otherwise stated, the information in this manual applies
to all the six models. This chapter is divided into the following sections:
•
•
•
•
•

28

Safety Considerations‚ on page 29
Options and Accessories‚ on page 30
Description‚ starting on page 31
Installation‚ on page 33
Output Connections‚ on page 34

Chapter 2 General Information
Safety Considerations

Safety Considerations
This power supply is a Safety Class I instrument, which means that it has a
protective earth terminal. That terminal must be connected to earth ground
through a power source with a 3-wire ground receptacle.
Before installation or operation, check the power supply and review this
manual for safety markings and instructions. Safety information for specific
procedures is located at the appropriate places in this manual. See also
‘‘Safety’’ at the beginning of this manual for general safety information.
Safety and EMC Requirements

This power supply is designed to comply with the following safety and EMC
(Electromagnetic Compatibility) requirements:
• IEC 1010-1(1990)/EN 61010-1(1993) + A2 (1995): Safety Requirements for
Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use
• CSA C22.2 No.1010.1-92: Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use
• EN61326-1(1997):
EN 61000-4-2(1995): Electrostatic Discharge Requirements
EN 61000-4-3(1996): Radiated Electromagnetic Field Requirements
EN 61000-4-4(1995): Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Requirements
EN61000-4-5(1995): Surge Requirements
EN61000-4-6(1996): Conducted Radio Frequency Immunity Requirements
EN61000-4-8(1993): Magnetic Field Requirements
EN61000-4-11(1994): Voltage dips, short, interruption and var Requirement
EN 55011(1991) Group 1, Class A/CISPR 11(1990): Limits and Methods of
Radio Interference Characteristics of Industrial, Scientific, and Medical
(ISM) Radio - Frequency Equipment
• Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
• EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
• ICES/NMB-001
This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES-001.
Cet appareil ISM est conforme à la norme NMB-001 du Canada.

29

2

Chapter 2 General Information
Options and Accessories

Options and Accessories
Options

Options 0EM, 0E3, and 0E9 determine which power-line voltage is selected at
the factory. The standard unit is configured for 115 Vac ± 10%, 47-63 Hz input
voltage. For more information about changing the power-line voltage setting,
see Line Voltage Conversion on page 21.
Option
0EM
0E3
0E9
1CM
0L2

Description
115 Vac ± 10%, 47-63 Hz input voltage

230 Vac ± 10%, 47-63 Hz input voltage
100 Vac ± 10%, 47-63 Hz input voltage
Rack mount kit (Agilent part number 5063-9240)
Extra English manual set (local language manual files are included
on the CD-ROM, Agilent part number 5964-8251)

Accessories

The accessories listed below may be ordered from your local Agilent
Tecnologies Sales Office either with the power supply or separately.
Agilent No.
10833A
10833B
34398A
34399A

30

Description

GPIB cable, 1 m (3.3 ft.)
GPIB cable, 2 m (6.6 ft.)
RS-232, 9 pin (f) to 9 pin (f), 2.5 m (8.2 ft.) cable; plus 9 pin (m) to
25 pin (f) adapter
RS-232 adapter kit (contains 4 adapters):
9 pin (m) to 25 pin (m) for use with PC or printer
9 pin (m) to 25 pin (f) for use with PC or printer
9 pin (m) to 25 pin (m) for use with modem
9 pin (m) to 9 pin (m) for use with modem

Chapter 2 General Information
Description

Description
This power supply features a combination of programming capabilities and
linear power supply performance that makes it ideal for power systems
applications. The power supply may be programmed locally from the front
panel or remotely over the GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. This power supply has
two ranges, allowing more voltage at a lower current or more current at a lower
voltage. The output range is selected from the front panel or over the remote
interfaces.
Operational features include:
• Single-output dual range
• Constant voltage (CV) or constant current (CC) operation
• Overvoltage protection (OVP)
• Five storage locations (1 to 5) for user-defined operating states
• Automatic turn-on self-test
• Remote sense at rear panel terminals
• User calibration from the front panel or over the remote interfaces
The front panel operation permits:
• Easy-to-use control features
• Output range selection
• Enabling or disabling OVP
• Setting the OVP trip levels
• Clearing OVP conditions
• Setting and displaying the voltage and current limit values
• Operating state storage/recall
• Resetting the power supply to power-on state
• Returning the power supply to local mode from remote mode
• Retrieving/Scrolling error messages on the display
• Reading calibration message or system firmware revision
• Calibrating the power supply, including changing the calibration secure
code
• Enabling the remote interfaces
• Enabling or disabling the output
31

2

Chapter 2 General Information
Description

When operated over the remote interface, the power supply can be both a
listener and a talker. Using an external controller, you can instruct the power
supply to set the output and to send the status data back over the GPIB or
RS-232. Capabilities include the following features:
•
•
•
•
•

Voltage and current programming
Voltage and current readback
Present and stored status hardback
Programming syntax error detection
Complete self-test

The front-panel VFD (Vacuum-Fluorescent Display) includes:
•
•
•
•

Displaying actual values of output voltage and current (meter mode)
Or displaying the limit values of voltage and current (limit mode)
Checking the operating status from the annunciators
Checking the type of error from the error codes (messages)

Front panel binding posts are available to connect load wires for bench
operation. Connections to the power supply’s output and to chassis ground are
made to the rear output terminals.
Warning

Floating the power supply output more than ±60 Vdc from the chassis presents an
electric shock hazard to the operator. Do not float the outputs more than ±60 Vdc
when uninsulated sense wires are used to connect the (+) output to the (+) sense and
the (-) output to the (-) sense terminals on the back of the unit.

1. Float voltage +/-60 Vdc Max to (
)
(shorting conductors without insulation)
2. Float voltage +/-240 Vdc Max to (
(Insulated shorting conductors)
(Rear Output Terminals)

32

)

Chapter 2 General Information
Installation

Installation
Initial Inspection

When you receive your power supply, inspect it for any obvious damage that
may have occurred during shipment. If any damage is found, notify the carrier
and the nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office immediately. Warranty
information is shown in the front of this manual.
Keep the original packing materials in case the power supply has to be returned
to Agilent Tecnologies in the future. If you return the power supply for service,
attach a tag identifying the owner and model number. Also include a brief
description of the problem.
Mechanical Check

This check confirms that there are no broken terminals or knob and that the
cabinet and panel surfaces are free of dents and scratches. Verify that the
display is not scratched or cracked.
Electrical Check

Chapter 1 describes quick operation procedure that verifies to a high level of
confidence that the power supply is operating in accordance with its
specifications. More complete verification procedures are included in the
Service Information.
Cooling and Location
Cooling

The power supply can operate at rated specifications within the temperature
range of 0 °C to 40 °C, Power supply loading is derated from 40 °C to 55 °C. A
fan cools the power supply by drawing air through the sides and exhausting it
out the back. Using an Agilent rack mount will not impede the flow of air.
Bench Operation

Your power supply must be installed in a location that allows sufficient space
at the sides and rear of the power supply for adequate air circulation. The
rubber bumpers must be removed for rack mounting.
Cleaning

No cleaning is required for this product. If you wish to remove dust from the
enclosure, use a dry cloth.
33

2

Chapter 2 General Information
Output Connections

Output Connections
Warning

Before attempting to connect wires to the rear output terminals, make sure to turn
off the power supply first to avoid damage to the circuits being connected.

Front panel binding posts are available to connect load wires for bench
operation and are paralleled with the rear panel (+) and (-) connections. Both
front and rear panel terminals are optimized for noise, regulation, and transient
response as documented in chapter 8.
Available connections on the rear output terminals include the (+) and (-)
output, the (+) and (-) sense terminals, and an earth ground terminal. The rear
output terminals accept wire sizes from AWG 24 to AWG 14.
Note: For the E3644A/45A models, when making load connections from the
rear output terminals, four load wires should be used to keep good CV load
regulation if carrying full-rated current of the power supply.
Current Ratings

The following table lists the characteristics of AWG (American Wire Gage)
copper wire.
Table 2-1 Wire Rating
AWG

10

12

14

16

18

20

22

24

26

28

Suggested maximum
Current(amps)*

40

25

20

13

10

7

5

3.5

2.5

1.7

mΩ/ft

1.00

1.59

2.53

4.02

6.39

10.2

16.1

25.7

40.8

64.9

mΩ/m

3.3

5.2

8.3

13.2

21.0

33.5

52.8

84.3

133.9 212.9

*Single conductor in free air at 30 °C with insulation

Warning

To satisfy safety requirements, load wires must be heavy enough not to overheat when
carrying the maximum short-circuit output current of the power supply. If there is
more than one load, then any pair of load wires must be capable of safety carrying
the full-rated current of the power supply.

34

Chapter 2 General Information
Output Connections

Voltage Drops

The load wires must also be large enough to avoid excessive voltage drops due
to the impedance of the wires. In general, if the wires are heavy enough to carry
the maximum short circuit current without overheating, excessive voltage
drops will not be a problem. The voltage drops across the load wires should
be limited to less than two volts. Refer to Table 2-1 to calculate the voltage drop
for some commonly used AWG copper wire.
Load Consideration
Capacitive Loading

The power supply will be stable for almost any size load capacitance. However,
large load capacitors may cause transient response ringing. Certain
combinations of load capacitance, equivalent series resistance, and load lead
inductance may result in instability (oscillation). If this occurs, the problem
may often be solved by either increasing or decreasing the size of the capacitive
load.
A large load capacitor may cause the power supply to cross into CC or
unregulated mode momentarily when the output voltage is reprogrammed. The
slew rate of the output voltage will be limited to the current setting divided by
the total load capacitance (internal and external).
Inductive loading

Inductive loads present no loop stability problems in constant voltage mode.
In constant current mode, inductive loads form a parallel resonance with the
power supply’s output capacitor. Generally this will not affect the stability of
the power supply, but it may cause ringing of the current in the load.
Pulse Loading

In some applications the load current varies periodically from a minimum to
a maximum value. The constant current circuit limits the output current. Some
peak loading exceeding the current limit can be obtained due to the output
capacitor. To stay within the specifications for the output, the current limit
should be set greater than the peak current expected or the supply may go into
CC mode or unregulated mode for brief periods.

35

2

Chapter 2 General Information
Output Connections

Reverse Current Loading

An active load connected to the power supply may actually deliver a reverse
current to the supply during a portion of its operating cycle. An external source
can not be allowed to pump current into the supply without risking loss of
regulation and possible damage. These effects can be avoided by pre-loading
the output with a dummy load resistor. The dummy load resistor should draw
at least the same amount of current from the supply as the active load may
deliver to the supply. The value of the current for the dummy load plus the
value of the current the load draws from the supply must be less than the
maximum current of the supply.
Remote Voltage Sensing Connections

Remote voltage sensing is used to maintain regulation at the load and reduce
the degradation of regulation that would occur due to the voltage drop in the
leads between the power supply and the load.
When the power supply is connected for remote sensing, the OVP circuit senses
the voltage at the sensing points (load) and not the output terminals.
Connections between the power supply sensing and output terminals should
be removed, and using shielded two-wire cable, the power supply sensing
terminals should be connected to the load as shown in Figure 2-1. Do not use

the shield as one of the sensing conductors and the other end should be left
unconnected. Connect one end of the sensing lead shield to the chassis ground

( ) only. Opening a sensing lead causes the power supply output voltage to
decrease at the load leads. Observe polarity when connecting the sensing leads
to the load.

Figure 2-1. Remote Voltage Sensing Connections

36

Figure 2-2. Local Sensing Connections

Chapter 2 General Information
Output Connections

Stability

Using remote sensing under certain combinations of load lead lengths and
large load capacitances may cause your application to form a filter, which
becomes part of the voltage feedback loop. The extra phase shift created by
this filter can degrade the power supply’s stability, resulting in poor transient
response or loop instability. In severe cases, it may cause oscillations. To
minimize this possibility, keep the load leads as short as possible and twist
them together. As the sense leads are part of the power supply’s programming
feedback loop, accidental open-connections of sense or load leads during
remote sensing operation have various unwanted effects. Provide secure and
permanent connections.
Note

During remote sensing setup, it is strongly recommended to power off (by presssing
power ON/OFF button) the power supply to avoid undesirable damage to the load or
the power supply.

CV Regulation

The voltage load regulation specification in chapter 8 applies at the output
terminals of the power supply. When remote sensing, add 5 mV to this
specification for each 1 V drop between the positive sensing point and (+)
output terminal due to the change in load current. Because the sense leads are
part of the power supply’s feedback path, keep the resistance of the sense leads
at or below 0.5 Ω per lead to maintain the above specified performance.
Output Rating

The rated output voltage and current specifications in chapter 8 apply at the
output terminals of the power supply. With remote sensing, any voltage
dropped in the load leads must be added to the load voltage to calculate
maximum output voltage. The performance specifications are not guaranteed
when the maximum output voltage is exceeded. If the excessive demand on
the power supply forces the power supply to lose regulation, the Unreg
annunciator will turn on to indicate that the output is unregulated.
Output Noise

Any noise picked up on the sense leads also appears at the output of the power
supply and may adversely affect the voltage load regulation. Twist the sense
leads to minimize external noise pickup and run them parallel and close to the
load leads. In noisy environments it may be necessary to shield the sense leads.
Ground the shield at the power supply end only. Do not use the shield as one
of the sense conductors.
37

2

Chapter 2 General Information
Output Connections

Multiple Loads

When connecting multiple loads to the power supply, each load should be
connected to the output terminals using separate connecting wires. This
minimizes mutual coupling effects between loads and takes full advantage of
the low output impedance of the power supply. Each pair of wires should be
as short as possible and twisted or bundled to reduce lead inductance and noise
pick-up. If a shield is used, connect one end to the power supply ground
terminal and leave the other end disconnected.
If cabling considerations require the use of distribution terminals that are
located remotely from the power supply, connect output terminals to the
distribution terminals by a pair of twisted or shielded wires. Connect each load
to the distribution terminals separately.

38

3

Front-Panel Operation and Features

Front-Panel Operation and Features

So far you have learned how to install your power supply and do quick start.
During the quick start, you were briefly introduced to operating from the front
panel as you learned how to check basic voltage and current functions. This
chapter describes in detail the use of the front-panel keys and shows how they
are used to accomplish power supply operation.
This chapter is divided into the following sections:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Front-Panel Operation Overview‚ on page 41
Constant Voltage Operation‚ starting on page 42
Constant Current Operation‚ starting on page 44
Configuring the Remote Interface‚ starting on page 46
Storing and Recalling Operating States‚ starting on page 48
Programming Overvoltage Protection‚ starting on page 50
Disabling the Output‚ on page 54
System-Related Operations‚ starting on page 55
GPIB Interface Reference‚ on page 58
RS-232 Interface Reference‚ starting on page 59
Calibration Overview‚ starting on page 62

Throughout this chapter the key to be pressed is shown in the left margin.

Note

See ‘‘Error Messages’’, starting on page 113 in chapter 5 if you encounter any errors
during front-panel operation.

40

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Front-Panel Operation Overview

Front-Panel Operation Overview
The following section describes an overview of the front-panel keys before
operating your power supply.
• The power supply is shipped from the factory configured in the front-panel
operation mode. At power-on, the power supply is automatically set to
operate in the front-panel operation mode. When in this mode, the frontpanel keys can be used.
• When the power supply is in remote operation mode, you can return to front(Local) key if you
panel operation mode at any time by pressing the
did not previously send the front-panel lockout command. A change
between front-panel and remote operation modes will not result in a change
in the output parameters.
• When you press
key (the Limit annunciator flashes), the display of
the power supply goes to the limit mode and the present limit values will
be displayed. In this mode, you can also observe the change of the limit
values when adjusting the knob. If you press the
key again or let the
display time-out after several seconds, the power supply will return the
display to the meter mode (the Limit annunciator turns off). In this mode,
the actual output voltage and current will be displayed.
• The output of the power supply can be enabled or disabled from the front
key. When the output is off, the OFF annunciator
panel by pressing
turns on and the output is disabled.
• The display provides the present operating status of the power supply with
annunciators and also informs the user of error codes. For example, the
power supply is operating in CV mode in the 8V/3A range and controlled
from the front panel, then the CV and 8V annunciators will turn on. If,
however, the power supply is remotely controlled, the Rmt annunciator will
also turn on, and when the power supply is being addressed over GPIB
interface, the Adrs annunciator will turn on. See ‘‘Display Annunciators’’,
starting on page 5 for more information.
• The display provides the present operating status of the power supply with
annunciators and also informs the user of error codes.
Store

Local

Display
Limit

Display
Limit

Output
On/Off

41

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Constant Voltage Operation

Constant Voltage Operation
To set up the power supply for constant voltage (CV) operation, proceed as
follows.

• Front-panel operation:
1 Connect a load to the output terminals.

With power-off, connect a load to the (+) and (-) output terminals.

Power

2 Turn on the power supply.
The power supply will go into the power-on / reset state; the output is disabled
(the OFF annunciator turns on); its low voltage range is selected (annunciator
for the range presently selected turns on, for example, the 8V annunciator turns
on for the E3640A model); and the knob is selected for voltage control.
Press
to operate the power supply in the high voltage range before
proceeding to the next step. The 20V or 60V annunciator turns on depending
on which power supply you are using.
High

3 Set the display to the limit mode.
Notice that the Limit annunciator flashes, indicating that the display is in the
limit mode. When the display is in the limit mode, you can see the voltage and
current limit values of the power supply.

Display
Limit

In constant voltage mode, the voltage values between the meter and
limit modes are the same, but the current values are not. Moreover, if the
display is in the meter mode, you cannot see the change of current limit
value when adjusting the knob. We recommend that you should set the
display to “limit” mode to see the change of current limit value in the
constant voltage mode whenever adjusting the knob.
Voltage
Current

1

4 Adjust the knob for the desired current limit.
Check that the Limit annunciator still flashes. Set the knob for current control.
The flashing digit can be changed using the resolution selection keys and the
flashing digit can be adjusted by turning the knob. Adjust the knob to the
desired current limit.

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting current.

1

42

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Constant Voltage Operation

Voltage
Current

Display
Limit

1

5 Adjust the knob for the desired output voltage.
Check that the Limit annunciator still flashes. Set the knob for voltage control.
Change the flashing digit using the resolution selection keys and adjust the
knob for the desired output voltage.
6 Return to the meter mode.
Press
or let the display time-out after several seconds to return to the
meter mode. Notice that the Limit annunciator turns off and the display shows
“OUTPUT OFF” message.
Display
Limit

Output
On/Off

Note

7 Enable the output.
The OFF annunciator turns off and the CV annunciator turns on. Notice that
the display is in the meter mode.
8 Verify that the power supply is in the constant voltage mode.
If you operate the power supply in the constant voltage (CV) mode, verify that
the CV annunciator is lit. If the CC annunciator is lit, choose a higher current
limit.
During actual CV operation, if a load change causes the current limit to be exceeded,
the power supply will automatically crossover to the constant current mode at the
preset current limit and the output voltage will drop proportionately.

• Remote interface operation:
CURRent {|MIN|MAX}

Set the current

VOLTage {|MIN|MAX}

Set the voltage

OUTPut ON

Enable the output

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting voltage.

1

43

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Constant Current Operation

Constant Current Operation
To set up the power supply for constant current (CC) operation, proceed as
follows.

• Front-panel operation:
1 Connect a load to the output terminals.

With power-off, connect a load to the (+) and (-) output terminals.

Power

2 Turn on the power supply.
The power supply will go into the power-on / reset state; the output is disabled
(the OFF annunciator turns on); its low voltage range is selected (annunciator
for the range presently selected turns on, for example, the 8V annunciator turns
on for the E3640A model); and the knob is selected for voltage control.
Press
to operate the power supply in the high voltage range before
proceeding to the next step. The 20V or 60V annunciator turns on depending
on which power supply you are using.
High

Display
Limit

3 Set the display to the limit mode.
Notice that the Limit annunciator flashes, indicating that the display is in the
limit mode. When the display is in the limit mode, you can see the voltage and
current limit values of the selected supply.

In constant current mode, the current values between the meter mode
and limit mode are the same, but the voltage values are not. Moreover, if
the display is in the meter mode, you cannot see the change of voltage
limit value when adjusting the knob. We recommend that you should set
the display to “limit” mode to see the change of voltage limit value in the
constant current mode whenever adjusting the knob.
1

4 Adjust the knob for the desired voltage limit.
Check that the Limit annunciator still flashes and the knob is selected for
voltage control. The flashing digit can be changed using the resolution keys
and the flashing digit can be adjusted by turning the knob. Adjust the knob for
the desired voltage limit.

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting the voltage.

1

44

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Constant Current Operation

Voltage
Current

Display
Limit

1

5 Adjust the knob for the desired output current.
Check that the Limit annunciator still flashes. Set the knob for current control.
Change the flashing digit using the resolution selection keys and adjust the
knob to the desired output current.
6 Return to the meter mode.
Press
or let the display time-out after several seconds to return to the
meter mode. Notice that the Limit annunciator turns off and the display shows
“OUTPUT OFF” message.
Display
Limit

Output
On/Off

Note

7 Enable the output.
The OFF annunciator turns off and the CC annunciator turns on. Notice that
the display is in the meter mode.
8 Verify that the power supply is in the constant current mode.
If you operate the power supply in the constant current (CC) mode, verify that
the CC annunciator is lit. If the CV annunciator is lit, choose a higher voltage
limit.
During actual CC operation, if a load change causes the voltage limit to be exceeded,
the power supply will automatically crossover to constant voltage mode at the preset
voltage limit and the output current will drop proportionately.

• Remote interface operation:
VOLTage {|MIN|MAX}

Set the voltage

CURRent {|MIN|MAX}

Set the current

OUTPut ON

Enable the output

You can use the resolution selection keys to move the flashing digit to the
right or left when setting the current.

1

45

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Configuring the Remote Interface

Configuring the Remote Interface
This power supply is shipped with both a GPIB (IEEE-4888) interface and an
RS-232 interface. The GPIB interface is selected when the power supply is
shipped from the factory. Only one interface can be enabled at a time. To exit
key until the ‘‘NO
the I/O configuration mode without any changes, press
CHANGE’’ message is displayed.
• You can set the GPIB address, parity, and baud rate from the front panel
only.
• The current selection is highlighted for emphasis. All other choices are
dimmed.
• The interface selection is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not
change when power has been off or after a power-on reset (*RST
command).
I/O
Config

GPIB Configuration
I/O
Config

1 Turn on the remote configuration mode.
GPIB / 488

If “RS-232” appears, select “GPIB / 488” by turning the knob.
I/O
Config

2 Select the GPIB address.
ADDR

05

You can set the power supply’s address to any value between 0 and 30. The
factory setting is address ‘‘5’’.
I/O
Config

3 Save the change and exit the menu.
SAVED

Note

Your computer's GPIB interface card has its own address. Be sure to avoid
using the computer's address for any instrument on the interface bus.
Agilent Technologies GPIB interface cards generally use address ‘‘21’’.
46

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Configuring the Remote Interface

RS-232 Configuration
I/O
Config

1 Turn on the remote configuration mode.
GPIB / 488

Notice that if you changed the remote interface selection to RS-232 before,
“RS-232” message is displayed.
2 Choose the RS-232 interface.

3

RS-232

You can choose the RS-232 interface by turning the knob.
I/O
Config

3 Select the baud rate
Select one of the following: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 (factory setting)
baud.
9600 BAUD

I/O
Config

4 Select the parity and number of stop bits.
Select one of the following: None (8 data bits, factory setting), Odd (7 data
bits), or Even (7 data bits). When you set the parity, you are also indirectly
setting the number of the data bits.
NONE 8 BITS

I/O
Config

5 Save the change and exit the menu.
SAVED

47

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Storing and Recalling Operating States

Storing and Recalling Operating States
You can store up to five different operating state in non-volatile storage
locations. When shipped from the factory, storage locations ‘‘1’’ through ‘‘5’’
are empty. You can name a location from the front panel or over the remote
interface but you can only recall a named state from the front panel.
The following steps show you how to store and recall an operating state.
To cancel the store/recall operation, select the ‘‘EXIT’’ menu by turning the
knob then press the key pressed or let the display time-out.

• Front-panel operation:
Storing Operating State

1 Set up the power supply for the desired operating state.
The storage feature “remembers” output voltage range selection, the limit
value settings of voltage and current, output on/off state, OVP on/off state, and
OVP trip levels.
Store

2 Turn on the storage mode.
STORE STATE

From the front panel, you can assign names (up to 10 characters) to each of
the five stored states. Turn the knob until the ‘‘NAME STATE’’ appears and
to select the locations, then press
to name the locations.
press
Store

Store

Name STATE
1:p15v_test

Store

3 Select the storage location.
Turn the knob to the right to specify the memory location 2.
2: STatE2

48

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Storing and Recalling Operating States

Store

4 Save the operating state
DONE

Recalling a Stored State
Recall

1 Turn on the recall mode.
Memory location “1” will be displayed in the recall mode.

3

1: p15v_test

2 Select the stored operating state.
2: state2
reset

You can select the above RESET mode to reset the power supply to the poweron state without turning power off/on or without using ‘‘*RST’’ command over
the remote interface. See page 87 for more details on ‘‘*RST’’ command.
Recall

3 Recall the stored operating state.
done

• Remote interface operation:
Use the following commands to store and recall power supply state.
*SAV {1|2|3|4|5}

Store an operating state to a specified location

*RCL {1|2|3|4|5}

Recall a previously stored state from a specified
location

‘‘MEM:STATE:NAME

1, ‘P15V_TEST’’’
Name the storage location 1 as ‘‘P15V_TEST’’.

49

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Programming Overvoltage Protection

Programming Overvoltage Protection
Overvoltage protection guards the load against output voltages reaching values
greater than the programmed protection level. It is accomplished by shorting
the output via an internal SCR when the trip level is set to equal or greater than
3 volts, or by programming the output to 1 volt when the trip level is set to less
than 3 volts.
The following steps show how to set the OVP trip level, how to check OVP
operation, and how to clear overvoltage condition.

• Front-panel operation:

Setting the OVP Level and Enable the OVP Circuit
Power

Over
Voltage

1 Turn on the power supply.
2 Enter the OVP menu and set the desired trip level.
LEVEL 22.0V (E3640A)

Use the knob and the resolution selection key < or > to set the desired
trip level. Note that you cannot set the trip levels to lower than 1.0 volt.
Over
Voltage

3 Enable the OVP circuit.
OVP ON

Over
Voltage

4 Exit the OVP menu.
CHANGED

If the OVP settings are not changed, “NO CHANGE” will be displayed. The
power supply will exit the OVP menu and the display will return to the meter
mode. Check that the OVP annunciator turns on.

50

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Programming Overvoltage Protection

Checking OVP Operation

To check OVP operation, raise the output voltage to near the trip point. Then
very gradually increase the output by turning the knob until the OVP circuit
trips. This will cause the power supply output to drop to near zero, the OVP
annunciator to flash, and the CC annunciator to turn on. The “OVP TRIPPED”
message also appears on the display.
Clearing the Overvoltage Condition

When the OVP condition occurs, the OVP annunciator flashes. When it was
caused by an external voltage source such as a battery, disconnect it first. Clear
the overvoltage condition by adjusting output voltage level or by adjusting OVP
trip level.
The following steps show you how to clear the overvoltage condition and get
back to normal mode operation. In the following steps, the display will go back
to “OVP TRIPPED” if you let the display time out after about several seconds.
By Adjusting output voltage level
Display
Limit

1 Lower the output voltage level below the OVP trip point.
The OVP and Limit annunciators are flashing after
key is pressed.
Display
Limit

Over
Voltage

Over
Voltage

2 Check that you lowered the voltage level below the OVP trip point.
The OVP trip point is displayed. Do not adjust the trip point at this step.
3 Select the OVP CLEAR mode by turning the knob.
OVP ON
OVP CLEAR

Over
Voltage

4 Clear the overvoltage condition and exit this menu.
done

The OVP annunciator will not flash any more. The output will return to meter
mode.
51

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Programming Overvoltage Protection

By Adjusting OVP trip level
Over
Voltage

1 Raise the OVP trip level higher than the level tripped.

Over
Voltage

2 Select the OVP CLEAR mode by turning the knob.
OVP ON
OVP CLEAR

Over
Voltage

3 Clear the overvoltage condition and exit this menu.
done

The OVP annunciator will not flash any more. The output will return to the
meter mode.

• Remote interface operation:

52

VOLT:PROT {|MIN|MAX}

Set the OVP level

VOLT:PROT:STAT {OFF|ON)

Disable or enable the OVP circuit

VOLT:PROT:CLE

Clear the tripped OVP circuit

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Programming Overvoltage Protection

Note

The power supply’s OVP circuit contains a crowbar SCR, which effectively shorts the
output of the power supply whenever the overvoltage condition occurs. If external
voltage source such as a battery is connected across the output, and the overvoltage
condition inadvertently occurs, the SCR will continuously sink a large current from
the source; possibly damaging the power supply. To avoid this a diode must be
connected in series with the output as shown in Figure 3-1.

3

Figure 3-1. Recommended Protection Circuit for Battery Charging

53

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Disabling the Output

Disabling the Output
The output of the power supply can be disabled or enabled from the front panel.
• When the power supply is in the “Off” state, the OFF annunciator turns on
and the output is disabled. The OFF annunciator turns off when the power
supply returns to the “On” state. When the output is disabled, the voltage
value is 0 volts and the current value is 0.02 amps. This gives a zero output
voltage without actually disconnecting the output.
• The output state is stored in volatile memory; the output is always disabled
when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.
• While the output is disabled, the control knob is locked to prevent from any
unwanted changes occurring. But the other front panel keys are working.
• To lock the control knob, move the flashing digit to the right or left using
<
or > resolution selection keys until the flashing digit disappears.
To see or check the changes while the output is disabled, press
before
returning to meter mode.
Display
Limit

• Front-panel operation:
Output
On/Off

output Off

• Remote interface operation:
OUTP {OFF|ON}

Disconnecting the Output Using an External Relay

To disconnect the output, an external relay must be connected between the
output and the load. A TTL signal of either low true or high true is provided to
control an external relay. This signal can only be controlled with the remote
command OUTPut:RELay {OFF|ON}. The TTL output is available on the RS232 connection pin 1 and pin 0.
When the OUTPut:RELay state is “ON”, the TTL output of pin 1 is high
(4.5 V) and pin 9 is low (0.5 V). The levels are reversed when the
OUTPut:RELay state is “OFF”. The TTL output of pin 1 or pin 9 of the RS-232
connector is available only after installing two jumpers (JP102 and JP103)
inside the power supply. See the Service Information to locate them.
Note

Do not use the RS-232 interface if you have configured the power supply to output
relay control signals. Internal components on the RS-232 circuitry may be damaged.

54

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
System-Related Operations

System-Related Operations
This section gives information on system-related topics such as storing power
supply states, reading errors, running a self-test, displaying messages on the
front panel, and reading firmware revisions.
State Storage

The power supply has five storage locations in non-volatile memory to store
power supply states. The locations are numbered 1 through 5. You can assign
a name to each of the locations for use from the front panel.
• You can store the power supply state in any of the five locations. However,
you can only recall a state from a location that contains a previously stored
state.
• The power supply stores the following: the state of output range selection,
flashing digit position on the display, the limit value settings of voltage and
current, output on/off state, OVP on/off state and trip levels.
• When shipped from the factory, storage locations ‘‘1’’ through ‘‘5’’ are empty.
• You can assign a name to the storage locations. You can name a location
from the front panel or over the remote interface but you can only recall a
named state from the front panel. From the remote interface, you can only
recall a stored state using a number (1 through 5).
• The name can contain up to 9 characters. A letter (A-Z) or numbers (0-9)
can be used for the first character to name a state. The underscore character
(‘‘_ ’’) can be used for the remaining 8 characters. Blank spaces are not
allowed. An error is generated if you specify a name with more than 10
characters.
• A power-on reset (*RST command) does not affect the configurations
stored in memory. Once a state is stored, it remains until it is overwritten.

• Front-Panel Operation:
Store

STORE STATE, NAME STATE, EXIT

To reset the power supply to the power-on reset state without using the
*RST command or turning power off/on, select the ‘‘RESET’’ from the
following.
Recall

5 states, RESET, exit

55

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
System-Related Operations

• Remote Interface Operation:
Use the following commands to store and recall power supply state.
*SAV {1|2|3|4|5}
*RCL {1|2|3|4|5}

To assign a name to a stored state to be recalled from the front panel, send
the following command. From the remote interface, you can only recall a
stored state using a number (1 through 5).
‘‘MEM:STATE:NAME 1, ‘P15V_TEST’’’
Self-Test

A power-on self-test occurs automatically when you turn on the power supply.
This test assures you that the power supply is operational. This test does not
perform the extensive set of tests that are included as part of the complete selftest described below. If the power-on self-test fails, the ERROR annunciator
turns on.
A complete self-test performs a series of tests and takes approximately 2
seconds to execute. If all tests pass, you can have a high confidence that the
power supply is operational.
If the complete self-test is successful, “PASS” is displayed on the front panel.
If the self-test fails, ‘‘FAIL’’ is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on.
See the Service Information for instructions on returning the power supply to
Agilent Technologies for service.

• Front-panel operation:

To perform the complete front panel self-test, hold down the
key as
you turn on the power supply and hold down the key until you hear a long
beep. The self-test will begin when you release the key following the beep.
Display
Limit

• Remote interface operation:
‘‘*TST?’’

Returns “0” if the complete self-test passes or “1” if it fails.
Error Conditions

When the front-panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or more command
syntax or hardware errors have been detected. A record of up to 20 errors can
be stored in the power supply’s error queue. See ‘‘Error Messages’’ for more
information starting on page 113 in chapter 5.

56

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
System-Related Operations

Firmware Revision Query

The power supply has three microprocessors for control of various internal
systems. You can query the power supply to determine which revision of
firmware is installed for each microprocessor.
• The power supply returns three revision numbers. The first number is the
firmware revision number for the main processor; the second is for the
input/output processor; and the third is for the front-panel processor.

• Front-Panel Operation:
REV X.X-Y.Y-Z.Z

View

Press

View

3

twice to read the system firmware revision numbers.

• Remote interface operation:
*IDN?

The above command returns a string in the form:
‘‘Agilent Technologies,E3640A,0,X.X-Y.Y-Z.Z’’ (E3640A)
Be sure to dimension a string variable with at least 40 characters.
SCPI Language Version

This power supply complies with the rules and regulations of the present
version of SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments). You
can determine the SCPI version with which the power supply is in compliance
by sending a command from the remote interface.
You can query the SCPI version from the remote interface only.

• Remote interface operation:
‘‘SYST:VERS?’’

Query the SCPI version

Returns a string in the form “YYYY.V” where the “Y’s” represent the year
of the version, and the “V” represents a version number for that year
(for example, 1997.0).

57

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
GPIB Interface Reference

GPIB Interface Reference
The GPIB connector on the rear panel connects your power supply to the
computer and other GPIB devices. Chapter 2 lists the cables that are available
from Agilent Technologies. A GPIB system can be connected together in any
configuration (star, linear, or both) as long as the following rules are observed:
Each device on the GPIB (IEEE-488) interface must have a unique address.
You can set the power supply’s address to any value between 0 and 30. The
address is set to ‘‘5’’ when the power supply is shipped from the factory. The
GPIB address is displayed at power-on.

You can set the GPIB address from the front panel only.
• The address is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when
power has been off or after a power-on reset (*RST command).
• Your computer's GPIB interface card has its own address. Be sure to avoid
using the computer's address for any instrument on the interface bus.
Agilent Technologies GPIB interface cards generally use address ‘‘21’’.
• The total number of devices including the computer is no more than 15.
• The total length of all the cables used is no more than 2 meter times the
number of devices connected together, up to a maximum of 20 meters.
• Do not stack more than three connector blocks together on any GPIB
connector. Make sure that all connectors are fully seated and that the lock
screws are firmly finger tightened.

See page 46 for more information on configuring the power supply for remote
interface from the front panel.
Note

IEEE-488 states that you should exercise caution if your individual cable
lengths exceed 4 meters.

58

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
RS-232 Interface Reference

RS-232 Interface Reference
The power supply can be connected to the RS-232 interface using the 9-pin
(DB-9) serial connector on the rear panel. The power supply is configured as
a DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) device. For all communications over the
RS-232 interface, the power supply uses two handshake lines: DTR (Data
Terminal Ready, on pin 4) and DSR (Data Set Ready, on pin 6).
The following sections contain information to help you use the power supply
over the RS-232 interface. The programming commands for RS-232 are
explained on page 92.
RS-232 Configuration Overview

Configure the RS-232 interface using the parameters shown below. Use the
front-panel
key to select the baud rate, parity, and number of data bits
(See page 46 for more information).
I/O
Config

• Baud Rate: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 (factory setting)
• Parity and Data Bits: None / 8 data bits (factory setting)
Even / 7 data bits, or
Odd / 7 data bits
• Number of Start Bits: 1 bit (fixed)
• Number of Stop Bits: 2 bits (fixed)
RS-232 Data Frame Format

A character frame consists of all the transmitted bits that make up a single
character. The frame is defined as the characters from the start bit to the last
stop bit, inclusively. Within the frame, you can select the baud rate, number of
data bits, and parity type. The power supply uses the following frame formats
for seven and eight data bits.

59

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Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
RS-232 Interface Reference

Connection to a Computer or Terminal

To connect the power supply to a computer or terminal, you must have the
proper interface cable. Most computers and terminals are DTE (Data Terminal
Equipment) devices. Since the power supply is also a DTE device, you must
use a DTE-to-DTE interface cable. These cables are also called null-modem,
modem-eliminator, or crossover cables.
The interface cable must also have the proper connector on each end and the
internal wiring must be correct. Connectors typically have 9 pins (DB-9
connector) or 25 pins (DB-25 connector) with a “male” or “female” pin
configuration. A male connector has pins inside the connector shell and a
female connector has holes inside the connector shell.
If you cannot find the correct cable for your configuration, you may have to
use a wiring adapter. If you are using a DTE-to-DTE cable, make sure the
adapter is a “straight-through” type. Typical adapters include gender changers,
null-modem adapters, and DB-9 to DB-25 adapters.
The cable and adapter diagrams shown below can be used to connect the
power supply to most computers or terminals. If your configuration is different
than those described, order the Agilent 34399A Adapter Kit. This kit contains
adapters for connection to other computers, terminals, and modems.
Instructions and pin diagrams are included with the adapter kit.

DB-9 Serial Connection If your computer or terminal has a 9-pin serial
port with a male connector, use the null-modem cable included with the
Agilent 34398A Cable Kit. This cable has a 9-pin female connector on each
end. The cable pin diagram is shown below.
5182-4794
Cable

Instrument

60

PC

DCD
RX
TX
DTR

1
2
3
4

1
2
3
4

DCD
RX
TX
DTR

GND
DSR
RTS
CTS
RI

5
6
7
8
9

5
6
7
8
9

GND
DSR
RTS
CTS
RI

DB9
Male

DB9
Female

DB9
Female

DB9
Male

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
RS-232 Interface Reference

DB-25 Serial Connection If your computer or terminal has a 25-pin serial
port with a male connector, use the null-modem cable and 25-pin adapter
included with the Agilent 34398A Cable Kit. The cable and adapter pin
diagram are shown below.

DCD
RX
TX
DTR
GND
DSR
RTS
CTS
RI

DB9
Male

5181-6641
Adapter

5182-4794
Cable

Instrument
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

DB9
Female

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

DB9
DB9
Female Male

PC
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
20

TX
RX
RTS
CTS
DSR
GND
DCD
DTR

3

DB25 DB25
Female Male

RS-232 Troubleshooting

Here are a few things to check if you are having problems communicating over
the RS-232 interface. If you need additional help, refer to the documentation
that came with your computer.
• Verify that the power supply and your computer are configured for the same
baud rate, parity, and number of data bits. Make sure that your computer is
set up for 1 start bit and 2 stop bits (these values are fixed on the power
supply).
• Make sure to execute the SYSTem:REMote command to place the power
supply in the remote mode.
• Verify that you have connected the correct interface cable and adapters.
Even if the cable has the proper connectors for your system, the internal
wiring may be incorrect. The Agilent 34398A Cable Kit can be used to
connect the power supply to most computers or terminals.
• Verify that you have connected the interface cable to the correct serial port
on your computer (COM1, COM2, etc.).

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Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Calibration Overview

Calibration Overview
This section gives an overview of the calibration features of the power supply.
For more detailed discussion of the calibration procedures, see the Service
Information.
Calibration Security

This feature allows you to enter a security code to prevent accidental or
unauthorized calibrations of the power supply. When you first receive your
power supply, it is secured. Before you can calibrate the power supply, you
must unsecure it by entering the correct security code.
• The table 3-1 below shows the security code for each model when the power
supply is shipped from the factory. The security code is stored in nonvolatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a
power-on reset (*RST command).
• The security code may contain up to 11 alphanumeric characters or
underscore character (‘‘_’’). A letter (A-Z) or number (0-9) can be used for
the first character. You do not have to use all 11 characters.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (11 characters)
• When you secure the power supply from the remote interface, use maximum
8 alphanumeric characters to unsecure the power supply from the front
panel also. For example,
(less than 9 characters)

e3640A

If you forget your security code, you can disable the security feature by
adding a jumper inside the power supply, and then entering a new code.
See the Service Information for more information.
Table 3-1. Factory setting security codes

62

Model

Security
Code

Model

Security
Code

Model

Security
Code

E3640A

003640

E3641A

003641

E3642A

003642

E3643A

003643

E3644A

003644

E3645A

003645

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Calibration Overview

To Unsecure for Calibration

You can unsecure the power supply either from the front panel or over the
remote interface. The power supply is secured when shipped from the factory.
See the table 3-1 for the factory setting secure code for your power supply.
Power
View
Calibrate

1 Select the calibration mode.
SECURED

If the power supply is secured, the above message is displayed as you turn on
(Calibrate) key and hold down the
the power supply by holding down
key until you hear a long beep. And a message ‘‘CAL MODE’’ is displayed.
View

Calibrate

I/O
Config
Secure

2 Enter the security code.
000000

Enter the security code using the control knob and resolution selection keys.
I/O
Config
Secure

Power

3 Save the change and exit the menu.
UNSECURED

You will see the above message if the security code is correct. And a message
‘‘CAL MODE’’ is displayed. To exit the calibration mode, turn the power off
and on.

Notice that if you enter the wrong secure code, “INVALID” is displayed and
the code entering mode is displayed for you to enter the correct code.
• Remote Interface Operation:
CAL:SEC:STAT {OFF|ON},

Secure or unsecure the power supply

To unsecure the power supply, send the above command with the same
code used to secure. For example,
‘‘CAL:SEC:STAT OFF, ‘003640’’’ (E3640A model)

63

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Calibration Overview

To Secure Against Calibration

You can secure the power supply against calibration either from the front panel
or over the remote interface. The power supply is secured when shipped from
the factory.

Be sure to read the security code rules on page 62 before attempting to secure
the power supply.
• Front-Panel Operation:
Power
View
Calibrate

1 Select the calibration mode.
UNSECURED

If the power supply is unsecured, the above message is displayed as you turn
on the power supply by holding down
(Calibrate) key and hold down the
key until you hear a long beep. And a message ‘‘CAL MODE’’ is displayed.
View

Calibrate

I/O
Config
Secure

2 Enter the security code.
000000

Enter the desired security code using the control knob and resolution selection
keys.
I/O
Config
Secure

Power

3 Save the change and exit the menu.
secured

The secured setting is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change
when power has been off or after a power-on reset (*RST command).

• Remote Interface Operation:
CAL:SEC:STAT {OFF|ON},

Secure or unsecure the power supply

To secure the power supply, send the above command with the same code
as used to unsecure. For example,
‘‘CAL:SEC:STAT ON, ‘003640’’’ (E3640A model)

64

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Calibration Overview

To Change the Security Code To change the security code, you must first

unsecure the power supply, and then enter a new code. Be sure to read the
security code rules on page 62 before attempting to secure the power supply.

• Front-Panel Operation:
To change the security code, first make sure that the power supply is
(Secure) key after the
unsecured. Go to the security code entry, press
“CAL MODE” message is displayed, enter the new security code using the
(Secure) key.
control knob and resolution selection keys, then press
I/O
Config
Secure

I/O
Config
Secure

Changing the code from the front panel also changes the code as seen from
the remote interface.
• Remote Interface Operation:
Change the security code

CAL:SEC:CODE 

To change the security code, first unsecure the power supply using the old
security code. Then, enter the new code as shown below.
‘‘CAL:SEC:STAT OFF, ‘003640’’’
‘‘CAL:SEC:CODE ‘ZZ001443’’’
‘‘CAL:SEC:STAT ON, ‘ZZ001443’’’

Unsecure with old code
Enter new code
Secure with new code

Calibration Count

You can determine the number of times that your power supply has been
calibrated. Your power supply was calibrated before it left the factory. When
you receive your power supply, read the count to determine its initial value.

The calibration count feature can be performed from the remote interface
only.
• The calibration count is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change
when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.
• The calibration count increments up to a maximum of 32,767 after which it
wraps-around to 0. Since the value increments by one for each calibration
point, a complete calibration will increase the value by 3 counts.

• Remote Interface Operation:
CAL:COUN?

Query the number of times of calibration

65

3

Chapter 3 Front-Panel Operation and Features
Calibration Overview

Calibration Message

The power supply allows you to store one message in calibration memory in
the mainframe. For example, you can store such information as the date when
the last calibration was performed, the date when the next calibration is due,
the power supply’s serial number, or even the name and phone number of the
person to contact for a new calibration.
• You can record a calibration message only from the remote interface and
only when the power supply is unsecured. You can read the message from
either the front-panel or over the remote interface. You can read the
calibration message whether the powers supply is secured or unsecured.
• The calibration message may contain up to 40 characters. From the front
panel, you can view 11 characters of the message at a time.
• Storing a calibration message will overwrite any message previously stored
in memory.
• The calibration message is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not
change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

• Front-Panel Operation:
To read calibration message from the front panel, press
and turn the
knob until ‘‘CAL STRING’’ is displayed. Press
to scroll through the
text of the message. Press > to increase the scrolling speed.
View

View

View

View

CAL STRING

• Remote Interface Operation:
To store the calibration message, send the following command.

‘‘CAL:STR ‘CAL

66

06-01-99’’’

4

Remote Interface Reference

Remote Interface Reference

SCPI

SCPI

SCPI

•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

SCPI Command Summary‚ starting on page 69
Simplified Programming Overview‚ starting on page 74
Using the APPLy Command‚ on page 77
Output Setting and Operation Commands‚ starting on page 78
Triggering‚ starting on page 82
System-Related Commands‚ starting on page 85
State Storage Commands‚ on page 88
Calibration Commands‚ starting on page 89
Interface Configuration Commands‚ on page 92
The SCPI Status Registers‚ starting on page 93
Status Reporting Commands‚ starting on page 101
An Introduction to the SCPI Language‚ starting on page 103
Halting an Output in Progress‚ on page 108
SCPI Conformance Information‚ starting on page 109
IEEE-488 Conformance Information‚ on page 112

If you are a first-time user of the SCPI language, you may want to refer to
these sections to become familiar with the language before attempting to
program the power supply.

68

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary

SCPI Command Summary
This section summarizes the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable
Instruments) commands available to program the power supply over the
remote interface. Refer to the later sections in this chapter for more complete
details on each command.
Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used for SCPI
command syntax.
• Square brackets ([ ]) indicate optional keywords or parameters.
• Braces ({ }) enclose parameters within a command string.
• Triangle brackets (< >) indicate that you must substitute a value or a code
for the enclosed parameter.
• A vertical bar ( | ) separates one of two or more alternative parameters.

4
SCPI

First-time SCPI users, see page 103.

69

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary

Output Setting and Measurement Commands

(see page 78 for more information)
APPLy {|DEF|MIN|MAX}[,{|DEF|MIN|MAX}]
APPLy?
[SOURce:]
CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]{|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]
{ |DEFault}
CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? [DEFault]
CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX}
CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]
{|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]
{|DEFault}
VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? [DEFault]
VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX}
VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel] {|MIN|MAX}
VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]? [MIN|MAX]
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?
VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?
VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar
VOLTage:RANGe {P8V*|P20V*|P35V**|P60V**|LOW|HIGH}
VOLTage:RANGe?
MEASure
[:SCALar]
:CURRent[:DC]?
[:VOLTage][:DC]?

*For Agilent E3640A/42/44A Models

70

**For Agilent E3641A/43A/45A Models

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary

Triggering Commands

(see page 82 for more information)
INITiate[:IMMediate]
TRIGger[:SEQuence]
:DELay {|MIN|MAX}
:DELay?[MIN|MAX]
:SOURce {BUS|IMM}
:SOURce?
*TRG

System-Related Commands

(see page 85 for more information)
DISPlay[:WINDow]
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATe]?
:TEXT[:DATA] 
:TEXT[:DATA]?
:TEXT:CLEar
SYSTem
:BEEPer[:IMMediate]
:ERRor?
:VERSion?
:COMMunicate:GPIB:RDEVice:ADDRess 
:COMMunicate:GPIB:RDEVice:ADDRess?
OUTPut
:RELay[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
:RELay[:STATe]?
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATe]?

4

*IDN?
*RST
*TST?

71

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary

Calibration Commands

(see page 89 for more information)
CALibration
:COUNt?
:CURRent[:DATA] 
:CURRent:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:SECure:CODE 
:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},
:SECure:STATe?
:STRing 
:STRing?
:VOLTage[:DATA] 
:VOLTage:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection

Status Reporting Commands

(see page 101 for more information)
STATus:QUEStionable
:CONDition?
[:EVENt]?
:ENABle 
:ENABle?
SYSTem:ERRor?
*CLS
*ESE 
*ESE?
*ESR?
*OPC
*OPC?
*PSC {0|1}
*PSC?
*SRE 
*SRE?
*STB?
*WAI

72

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary

Interface Configuration Commands

(see page 92 for more information)
SYSTem
:INTerface {GPIB|RS232}
:LOCal
:REMote
:RWLock

State Storage Commands

(see page 88 for more information)
*SAV {1|2|3|4|5}
*RCL {1|2|3|4|5}
MEMory:STATe
:NAME {1|2|3|4|5} ,
:NAME? {1|2|3|4|5}

4

IEEE-488.2 Common Commands

(see page 112 for more information)
*CLS
*ESR?
*ESE 
*ESE?
*IDN?
*OPC
*OPC?
*PSC {0|1}
*PSC?
*RST
*SAV {1|2|3|4|5}
*RCL {1|2|3|4|5}
*STB?
*SRE 
*SRE?
*TRG
*TST?
*WAI

73

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Simplified Programming Overview

Simplified Programming Overview
This section gives an overview of the basic techniques used to program the
power supply over the remote interface. This section is only an overview and
does not give all of the details you will need to write your own application
programs. Refer to the remainder of this chapter and also chapter 6,
‘‘Application Programs’’, for more details and examples. Also refer to the
programming reference manual that came with your computer for details on
outputting command strings and entering data.
Using the APPLy Command

The APPLy command provides the most straightforward method to program
the power supply over the remote interface. For example, the following
statement executed from your computer will set the power supply to an output
of 3 V rated at 1 A:
‘‘APPL 3.0, 1.0’’
Using the Low-Level Commands

Although the APPLy command provides the most straightforward method to
program the power supply, the low-level commands give you more flexibility
to change individual parameters. For example, the following statements
executed from your computer will set the power supply to an output of 3 V
rated at 1 A:
‘‘VOLT 3.0’’
Set output voltage to 3.0 V
‘‘CURR 1.0’’
Set output current to 1.0 A

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Simplified Programming Overview

Reading a Query Response

Only the query commands (commands that end with “ ? ”) will instruct the
power supply to send a response message. Queries return either output values
or internal instrument settings. For example, the following statements
executed from your computer will read the power supply’s error queue and
print the most recent error:
dimension statement

Dimension string array (80 elements)

‘‘SYST:ERR?’’

Read error queue

bus enter statement

Enter error string into computer

print statement

Print error string

Selecting a Trigger Source

The power supply will accept a ‘‘bus’’ (software) trigger or an immediate
internal trigger as a trigger source. By default, the ‘‘BUS’’ trigger source is
selected. If you want the power supply to use an immediate internal trigger,
you must select ‘‘IMMediate’’. For example, the following statements
executed from your computer will set to an output of 3 V/1 A immediately:
‘‘VOLT:TRIG 3.0’’
Set the triggered voltage level to 3.0 V
‘‘CURR:TRIG 1.0’’
Set the triggered current level to 1.0 A
‘‘TRIG:SOUR IMM’’
Select the immediate trigger as a source
‘‘INIT’’
Cause the trigger system to initiate

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Simplified Programming Overview

Power Supply Programming Ranges

The SOURce subsystem requires parameters for programming values. The
available programming value for a parameter varies according to the desired
output range of the power supply. The following table lists the programming
values available and MINimum, MAXimum, DEFault and reset values of your
power supply.
Refer to this table to identify programming values when programming the power
supply.
Table 4-1. Agilent E3640A/42A/44A Programming Ranges
E3640A
0 - 8V/3A
Range
Voltage Programming
Range
MAX Value

E3642A

0 - 20V/1.5A
Range

0 - 8V/5A
Range

E3644A

0 - 20V/2.5A
Range

0 - 8V/8A
Range

0 - 20V/4A
Range

0 V to 8.24V 0 V to 20.60 V 0 V to 8.24V 0 V to 20.60 V 0 V to 8.24V 0 V to 20.60 V
8.24 V

20.60 V

8.24 V

20.60 V

8.24 V

20.60 V

MIN Value

0V

0V

0V

DEFault Value

0V

0V

0V

*RST Value

0V

0V

0V

Current Programming
Range
MAX Value

0 A to 3.09 A

0 A to 1.545 A 0 A to 5.15 A 0 A to 2.575 A 0 A to 8.24 A

3.09 A

1.545 A

MIN Value

5.15 A

2.575 A

0A

DEFault Value

3A

8.24 A

4.12 A

0A
1.5 A

*RST Value

5A

0A
2.5 A

3.00 A

0 A to 4.12 A

8A

4A

5.00 A

8.00 A

Table 4-2. Agilent E3641A/43A/45A Programming Ranges
E3641A
0 - 35V/0.8A
Range
Voltage Programming
Range
MAX Value

E3643A

0 - 60V/0.5A
Range

0 - 35V/1.4A
Range

E3645A

0 - 60V/0.8A
Range

0 - 35V/2.2A
Range

0 - 60V/1.3A
Range

0 V to 36.05V 0 V to 61.8 V 0 V to 36.05V 0 V to 61.8 V 0 V to 36.05V 0 V to 61.8 V
36.05 V

61.8 V

36.05 V

61.8 V

36.05 V

61.8 V

MIN Value

0V

0V

0V

DEFault Value

0V

0V

0V

*RST Value

0V

0V

0V

Current Programming
Range
MAX Value

0 A to 0.824 A 0 A to 0.515 A 0 A to 1.442 A 0 A to 0.824 A 0 A to 2.266 A 0 A to 1.339 A
0.824 A

MIN Value

0.515 A

1.442 A

0A

DEFault Value
*RST Value

76

0.8 A

0.5 A
0.8 A

0.824 A

2.266 A

0A
1.4 A

0.8 A
1.4 A

1.339 A
0A

2.2 A

1.3 A
2.2 A

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Using the APPLy Command

Using the APPLy Command
The APPLy command provides the most straightforward method to program
the power supply over the remote interface. You can select the output voltage
and current in one command.
APPLy {| DEF | MIN | MAX}[,{| DEF | MIN | MAX}]
This command is combination of VOLTage and CURRent commands.
The APPLy command changes the power supply’s output to the newly

programmed values only if the programmed values are valid within the
presently selected range. An execution error will occur if the programmed
values are not valid within the selected range.
You can substitute ‘‘MINimum’’, ‘‘MAXimum’’, or ‘‘DEFault’’ in place of a
specific value for the voltage and current parameters. For more details of
parameters, see Table 4-1 through Table 4-2 for each model.
If you specify only one parameter of the APPLy command, the power supply
regards it as voltage setting value.
APPLy?

Query the power supply’s present voltage and current setting values and
returns a quoted string. The voltage and current are returned in sequence as
shown in the sample string below (the quotation marks are returned as part of
the string).
‘‘8.00000,3.00000’’

(E3640A model)

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Output Setting and Operation Commands

Output Setting and Operation Commands
This section describes low-level commands used to program the power supply.
Although the APPLy command provides the most straightforward method to
program the power supply, the low-level output setting commands give you
more flexibility to change the individual parameters.
CURRent{| MINimum | MAXimum | UP | DOWN}

Program the immediate current level of the power supply. The immediate level
is the current value of the output terminals.
The CURRent command changes the output of the power supply to the newly
programmed value regardless of the output range presently selected.
You can substitute ‘‘MINimum’’ or ‘‘MAXimum’’ in place of a specific value for
the current parameter. MIN selects the lowest current values of ‘‘0’’ amps. MAX
selects the highest current values allowed for the selected range.
This command also increases or decreases the immediate current level using
the ‘‘UP’’ or ‘‘DOWN’’ parameter by a predetermined amount. The command
CURRent:STEP sets the amount of increase or decrease. Notice that a new
increment setting will cause an execution error -222 (Data out of range) when
the maximum or the minimum rated current is exceeded.
CURRent? [MINimum | MAXimum]

Return the presently programmed current level of the power supply.
CURR? MAX and CURR? MIN return the highest and lowest programmable
current levels for the selected range.
CURRent:STEP {| DEFault}

Set the step size for current programming with the CURRent UP and CURRent
DOWN commands. See the example in the next page.
To set the step size to the minimum resolution, set the step size to ‘‘DEFault’’.
The minimum resolution of the step size is approximately 0.052 mA (E3640A),
0.015 mA (E3641A), 0.095 mA (E3642A), 0.026 mA (E3643A), 0.152 mA
(E3644A), and 0.042 mA (E3645A), respectively. The CURR:STEP? DEF
returns the minimum resolution of your instrument. The immediate current
level increases or decreases by the value of the step size. For example, the
output current will increase or decrease 10 mA if the step size is 0.01. At *RST,
the step size is the value of the minimum resolution.

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Output Setting and Operation Commands

CURRent:STEP? [DEFault]

Return the value of the step size currently specified. The returned parameter
is a numeric value. ‘‘DEFault’’ gives the minimum resolution of the step size
in unit of amps.
CURRent:TRIGgered {| MINimum | MAXimum}

Program the pending triggered current level. The pending triggered current
level is a stored value that is transferred to the output terminals when a trigger
occurs. A pending triggered level is not affected by subsequent CURRent
commands.
CURRent:TRIGgered? [MINimum | MAXimum]

Query the triggered current level presently programmed. If no triggered level
is programmed, the CURRent level is returned.
Example

The following program segments show how to use the CURR UP or CURR DOWN
command to increase or decrease the output current with the CURR:STEP
command.
‘‘CURR:STEP 0.01’’
Set the step size to 0.01 A
‘‘CURR UP’’
Increase the output current
‘‘CURR:STEP 0.02’’
Set the step size to 0.02 A
‘‘CURR DOWN’’
Decrease the output current
VOLTage {| MINimum | MAXimum | UP | DOWN}

Program the immediate voltage level of the power supply. The immediate level
is the voltage value of the output terminals.
The VOLTage command changes the output of the power supply to the newly
programmed value regardless of the output range presently selected.
This command also increases or decreases the immediate voltage level using
the ‘‘UP’’ or ‘‘DOWN’’ parameter by a predetermined amount. The command
VOLTage:STEP sets the amount of increase or decrease. Notice that a new
increment setting will cause an execution error -222 (Data out of range) when
the maximum or the minimum rated voltage is exceeded.
VOLTage? [MINimum | MAXimum]

Query the presently programmed voltage level of the power supply.

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Output Setting and Operation Commands

VOLTage:STEP { | DEFault}

Set the step size for voltage programming with the VOLT UP and VOLT DOWN
commands. See the example below.
To set the step size to the minimum resolution, set the step size to ‘‘DEFault’’.
The minimum resolution of the step size is approximately 0.35 mV (E3640A),
1.14 mV (E3641A), 0.38 mV (E3642A), 1.14 mV (E3643A), 0.35 mV (E3644A),
and 1.14mV (E3645A), respectively. The immediate voltage level increases or
decreases by the value of the step size. For example, the output voltage will
increase or decrease 10 mV if the step size is 0.01. At *RST, the step size is the
value of the minimum resolution.
VOLTage:STEP? [DEFault]

Return the value of the step size currently specified. The returned parameter
is a numeric value. ‘‘DEFault’’ gives the minimum resolution step size in unit
of volts.
Example

The following program segments show how to use the VOLT UP or VOLT DOWN
command to increase or decrease the output voltage with the VOLT:STEP
command.
‘‘VOLT:STEP 0.01’’
Set the step size to 0.01 V
‘‘VOLT UP’’
Increase the output voltage
‘‘VOLT:STEP 0.02’’
Set the step size to 0.02 V
‘‘VOLT DOWN’’
Decrease the output voltage
VOLTage:TRIGgered {| MINimum | MAXimum}

Program the pending triggered voltage level. The pending triggered voltage
level is a stored value that is transferred to the output terminals when a trigger
occurs. A pending triggered level is not affected by subsequent VOLTage
commands.
VOLTage:TRIGgered? [MINimum | MAXimum]

Query the triggered voltage level presently programmed. If no triggered level
is programmed, the VOLT level is returned.
VOLTage:PROTection {|MINimum|MAXimum}

Set the voltage level at which the overvoltage protection (OVP) circuit will trip.
If the peak output voltage exceeds the OVP level, then the power supply output
is shorted by an internal SCR. An overvoltage condition can be cleared with
the VOLT:PROT:CLE command after the condition that caused the OVP trip
is removed.
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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Output Setting and Operation Commands

VOLTage:PROTection? [MINimum | MAXimum]

Query the overvoltage protection trip level presently programmed.
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {0 | 1 | OFF | ON}

Enable or disable the overvoltage protection function. At *RST, this value is
set to ‘‘ON’’.
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?

Query the state of the overvoltage protection function. The returned parameter
is ‘‘0’’ (OFF) or ‘‘1’’ (ON).
VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?

Return a ‘‘1’’ if the overvoltage protection circuit is tripped and not cleared or
a ‘‘0’’ if not tripped.
VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar

Cause the overvoltage protection circuit to be cleared. After this command,
the output voltage is restored to the state it was in before the protection feature
occurred and the OVP trip level remains unchanged to the value presently
programmed. Before sending this command, lower the output voltage below
the trip OVP point, or raise the OVP trip level above the output setting. Note

that the overvoltage condition caused by an external source must be removed
first before proceeding this command.
VOLTage:RANGe {P8V* | P20V* | P35V** | P60V** | LOW | HIGH}

Select an output range to be programmed by the identifier. For example,
‘‘P20V’’ or ‘‘HIGH’’ is the identifier for the 20V/1.5A range and ‘‘P8V’’ or ‘‘LOW’’
is for the 8V/3A range (for E3640A model). At *RST, low voltage range is
selected.
VOLTage:RANGe?

Query the currently selected range. The returned parameter is ‘‘P8V’’ or ‘‘P35V’’
for low voltage range, or ‘‘P20V’’ or ‘‘P60V’’ for high voltage range.
MEASure:CURRent?

Query the current measured across the current sense resistor inside the power
supply.
MEASure[:VOLTage]?

Query the voltage measured at the sense terminals of the power supply.

* For E3640A/42A/44A models **For E3641A/43A/45A models
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Triggering

Triggering
The power supply’s triggering system allows a change in voltage and current
when receiving a trigger, to select a trigger source, and to insert a trigger.
Triggering the power supply is a multi-step process.
• First, you must specify the source from which the power supply will accept
the trigger. The power supply will accept a bus (software) trigger or an
immediate trigger from the remote interface.
• Then, you can set the time delay between the detection of the trigger on the
specified trigger source and the start of any corresponding output change.
Notice that the time delay is valid for only the bus trigger source.

• Finally, you must provide an INITiate command. If the IMMediate
source is selected, the selected output is set to the triggered level
immediately. But if the trigger source is the bus, the power supply is set to
the triggered level after receiving the Group Execute Trigger (GET) or *TRG
command.
Trigger Source Choices

You must specify the source from which the power supply will accept a trigger.
The trigger is stored in volatile memory; the source is set to bus when the power
supply has been off or after a remote interface reset.
Bus (Software) Triggering

• To select the bus trigger source, send the following command.
TRIG:SOUR BUS ’’
• To trigger the power supply from the remote interface (GPIB or RS-232)
after selecting the bus source, send the *TRG (trigger) command. When the
*TRG is sent, the trigger action starts after the specified time delay if any
delay is given.
• You can also trigger the power supply from the GPIB interface by sending
the IEEE-488 Group Execute Trigger (GET) message. The following
statement shows how to send a GET from a Hewlett-Packard controller.
TRIGGER 705 ’’ (group execute trigger)
‘‘

‘‘

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Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
Triggering

• To ensure synchronization when the bus source is selected, send the *WAI
(wait) command. When the *WAI command is executed, the power supply
waits for all pending operations to complete before executing any additional
commands. For example, the following command string guarantees that the
first trigger is accepted and is executed before the second trigger is
recognized.
TRIG:SOUR BUS;*TRG;*WAI;*TRG;*WAI’’
• You can use the *OPC? (operation complete query) command or the *OPC
(operation complete) command to signal when the operation is complete.
The *OPC? command returns ‘‘1’’ to the output buffer when the operation
is complete. The *OPC command sets the ‘‘OPC’’ bit (bit 0) in the Standard
Event register when the operation is complete.
‘‘

Immediate Triggering

• To select the immediate trigger source, send the following command.
TRIG:SOUR IMM’’
• When the IMMediate is selected as a trigger source, an INITiate
command immediately transfers the VOLT:TRIG or CURR:TRIG value to
VOLT or CURR value. Any delay is ignored.
‘‘

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Triggering

Triggering Commands
INITiate

Cause the trigger system to initiate. This command completes one full trigger
cycle when the trigger source is an immediate and initiates the trigger
subsystem when the trigger source is bus.
TRIGger:DELay {| MINimum | MAXimum}

Set the time delay between the detection of an event on the specified trigger
source and the start of any corresponding trigger action on the power supply
output. Select from 0 to 3600 seconds. MIN = 0 seconds. MAX = 3600 seconds.
At *RST, this value is set to 0 seconds.
TRIGger:DELay?[MINimum | MAXimum]

Query the trigger delay.

TRIGger:SOURce {BUS | IMMediate}

Select the source from which the power supply will accept a trigger. The power
supply will accept a bus (software) trigger or an internal immediate trigger. At
*RST, the bus trigger source is selected.
TRIGger:SOURce?

Query the present trigger source. Returns ‘‘BUS’’ or ‘‘IMM’’.
*TRG

Generate a trigger to the trigger subsystem that has selected a bus (software)
trigger as its source (TRIG:SOUR BUS). The command has the same effect
as the Group Execute Trigger (GET) command. For RS-232 operation, make
sure the power supply is in the remote interface mode by sending the
SYST:REM command first.

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System-Related Commands

System-Related Commands
DISPlay {OFF | ON}

Turn the front-panel display off or on. When the display is turned off, outputs
are not sent to the display and all annunciators are disabled except the ERROR
annunciator.
The display state is automatically turned on when you return to the local mode.
(Local) key to return to the local state from the remote interface.
Press
Store

Local

DISPlay?

Query the front-panel display setting. Returns ‘‘0’’ (OFF) or ‘‘1’’ (ON).
DISPlay:TEXT 

This command displays a message on the front panel. The power supply will
display up to 11 characters in a message; any additional characters are
truncated. Commas, periods, and semicolons share a display space with the
preceding character, and are not considered individual characters.
DISPlay:TEXT?

Query the message sent to the front panel and returns a quoted string.
DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar

Clear the message displayed on the front panel.
OUTPut {OFF | ON}

Enable or disable the outputs of the power supply. When the output is disabled,
the voltage value is 0 V and the current value is 1 mA. At *RST, the output state
is OFF.
OUTPut?

Query the output state of the power supply. The returned value is ‘‘0’’ (OFF)
or ‘‘1’’ (ON).
OUTPut:RELay {OFF | ON}

Set the state of two TTL signals on the RS-232 connector pin 1 and pin 9. These
signals are intended for use with an external relay and relay driver. At *RST,
the OUTPUT:RELay state is OFF. See ‘‘Disconnecting the Output Using an
External Relay’’, on page 54 for more information.
Note

Do not use the RS-232 interface if you have configured the power supply to output
relay control signals. Internal components on the RS-232 circuitry may be damaged.

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System-Related Commands

OUTPut:RELay?

Query the state of the TTL relay logic signals.
SYSTem:BEEPer

Issue a single beep immediately.
SYSTem:ERRor?

Query the power supply’s error queue. A record of up to 20 errors is stored in
the power supply’s error queue. Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out (FIFO)
order. The first error returned is the first error that was stored. When you have
read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off and the errors
are cleared. See ‘‘Error Messages’’, starting on page 113 for more details.
SYSTem:VERSion?

Query the power supply to determine the present SCPI version. The returned
value is of a string in the form YYYY.V where the ‘‘Y’s’’ represent the year of
the version, and the ‘‘V’’ represents a version number for that year (for example,
1997.0).
SYSTem:COMMunicate:GPIB:RDEVice
:ADDRess {}
:ADDRess?

Set or query the bus address of the peripheral device. Changing the address
with this does not affect the address of the peripheral device. It does affect the
address to which data is sent by the instrument.
*IDN?

Read the power supply’s identification string. The power supply returns four
fields separated by commas. The first field is the manufacturer’s name, the
second field is the model number, the third field is not used (always ‘‘0’’), and
the fourth field is a revision code which contains three numbers. The first
number is the firmware revision number for the main power supply processor;
the second is for the input/output processor; and the third is for the front-panel
processor.
The command returns a string with the following format (be sure to dimension
a string variable with at least 40 characters):
Agilent Technologies,E3640A,0,X.X-Y.Y-Z.Z
*TST?

(E3640A model)

Perform a complete self-test of the power supply. Returns ‘‘0’’ if the self-test
passes or ‘‘1’’ or any non-zero value if it fails. If the self-test fails, an error
message is also generated with additional information on why the test failed.
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System-Related Commands

*RST

Reset the power supply to its power-on state. The table below shows the state
of the power supply after a RESET from the Recall menu or *RST command
from the remote interface.
Command
CURR
CURR:STEP
CURR:TRIG
DISP
OUTP
OUTP:REL
TRIG:DEL
TRIG:SOUR
VOLT
VOLT:STEP
VOLT:TRIG
VOLT:PROT
VOLT:PROT:STAT
VOLT:RANG

E3640A
state

E3641A
state

E3642A
state

E3643A
state

E3644A
state

E3645A
state

3A

0.8 A

5A

1.4 A

8A

2.2 A

0.052 mA

0.015 mA

0.095 mA

0.026 mA

0.152 mA

0.042 mA

3A

0.8 A

5A

1.4 A

8A

2.2 A

ON

ON

OFF

OFF

OFF

OFF

0

0

BUS

BUS

0V
0.35 mV

1.14 mV

22.0 V

66.0 V

0V
0.38 mV

1.14 mV
0V

0V

0V

22.0 V

66.0 V

22.0 V

66.0 V

0V
ON

0.35 mV

4

1.14 mV

ON

P8V (Low) P35V (Low) P8V (Low) P35V (Low) P8V (Low) P35V (Low)

Note: The voltage and current step sizes listed above are typical value.

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State Storage Commands

State Storage Commands
The power supply has five storage locations in non-volatile memory to store
power supply states. The locations are numbered 1 through 5. You can also
assign a name to each of the locations (1 through 5) for use from the front panel.
*SAV { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 }

Store (Save) the present state of the power supply to the specified location.
Any state previously stored in the same location is overwritten (no error is
generated).
• A power-on reset (*RST command) does not affect the configurations
stored in memory. Once a state is stored, it remains until it is overwritten
or specifically deleted.
• The state storage feature ‘‘remembers’’ the states or values of the following
commands:
CURR, CURR:STEP, CURR:TRIG, OUTP, OUTP:REL, TRIG:DEL,
TRIG:SOUR, VOLT, VOLT:STEP, VOLT:TRIG, VOLT:PROT,
VOLT:PROT:STAT, and VOLT:RANG
*RCL { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 }

Recall the power supply state stored in the specified storage location. When
shipped from the factory, storage locations ‘‘1’’ through ‘‘5’’ are empty.
Note: DISP {OFF|ON} can be stored and recalled in remote interface mode
only. Going to local mode automatically sets the display state to ON.
MEMory:STATe
:NAME { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5} , 
:NAME? { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5}

Assign a name to the specified storage location. From the remote interface,
you can only recall a stored state using a number (1 through 5). The :NAME?
query returns a quoted string containing the name currently assigned to the
specified storage location. If the specified location has no name assigned, an
empty string (‘‘ ’’) is returned. The name can contain up to 9 characters. The
first character can be a alphanumeric. Blank spaces are not allowed. An error
is generated if you specify a name with more than 9 characters. See ‘‘State
Storage’’, on page 55 for more information. An example is shown below.
‘‘MEM:STATE:NAME 1,‘P15V_TEST’’’
If you do not specify a name (note that the name parameter is optional), no
name is assigned to that state. This provides a way to erase a name (however,
the stored state is not deleted).
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Calibration Commands

Calibration Commands

See ‘‘Calibration Overview’’, starting on page 62 for an overview of the

calibration features of the power supply. An example program for calibration
is listed on page 91. For more detailed discussion on the calibration
procedures, see the Service Information.
Note

When you calibrate the power supply, you should NOT set the OVP to ON state in
order to prevent OVP from tripping.
CALibration:COUNt?

Query the power supply to determine the number of times it has been
calibrated. Your power supply was calibrated before it left the factory. When
you receive your power supply, read the count to determine its initial value.
Since the value increments by one for each calibration point, a complete
calibration will increase the value by 3 counts.
CALibration:CURRent[:DATA] 

This command can only be used after calibration is unsecured and the output
state is ON. It enters a current value that you obtained by reading an external
meter. You must first select the minimum calibration level (CAL:CURR:LEV
MIN) for the value being entered, then select the middle and maximum
calibration levels (CAL:CURR:LEV MID and CAL:CURR:LEV MAX) for the
value being entered. Three successive values must be selected and entered.
The power supply then computes new calibration constants. These constants
are then stored in non-volatile memory.
CALibration:CURRent:LEVel {MINimum | MIDdle | MAXimum}

This command can only be used after calibration is unsecured and the output
state is ON. It sets the power supply to a calibration point that is entered with
CAL:CURR command. During calibration, three points must be entered and the
low-end point (MIN) must be selected and entered first.
CALibration:SECure:CODE 

Enter a new security code. To change the security code, first unsecure the
power supply using the old security code. Then, enter the new code. The
calibration code may contain up to 11 characters over the remote interface.
See “Calibration Overview” on page 62 for more information.

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Calibration Commands

CALibration:SECure:STATe {OFF | ON},

Unsecure or secure the power supply with a security for calibration.
CALibration:SECure:STATe?

Query the secured state for calibration of the power supply. The returned
parameter is ‘‘0’’ (OFF) or ‘‘1’’ (ON).
CALibration:STRing 

Record calibration information about your power supply. For example, you
can store such information as the last calibration date, the next calibration due
date, or the power supply’s serial number. The calibration message may
contain up to 40 characters. The power supply should be unsecured before
sending a calibration message.
CALibration:STRing?

Query the calibration message and returns a quoted string.
CALibration:VOLTage[:DATA] 

This command can only be used after calibration is unsecured and the output
state is ON. It enters a voltage value that you obtained by reading an external
meter. You must first select the minimum calibration level (CAL:VOLT:LEV
MIN) for the value being entered. You must then select the middle and
maximum calibration levels (CAL:VOLT:LEV MID and CAL:VOLT:LEV MAX)
for the value being entered. Three successive values must be selected and
entered. The power supply then computes new voltage calibration constants.
These constants are then stored in non-volatile memory.
CALibration:VOLTage:LEVel {MINimum | MIDdle | MAXimum}

This command can only be used after calibration is unsecured and the output
state is ON. It sets the power supply to a calibration point that is entered with
CAL:VOLT command. During calibration, three points must be entered and the
low-end point (MIN) must be selected and entered first.
CALibration:VOLTage:PROTection

Calibrate the overvoltage protection circuit of the power supply. It takes about
10 seconds to execute the command. The calibration must be unsecured and
the output be opened before calibrating the overvoltage protection circuit. The
power supply automatically performs the calibration and stores the new
overvoltage constant in nonvolatile memory. Notice that voltage calibration

precedes before sending this command.

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Calibration Commands

Calibration
Example

1 Enable the output of the power supply.

‘‘OUTP

ON’’

2 Disable the voltage protection function.

‘‘VOLT:PROT:STAT

OFF’’

3 Unsecure the power supply with the secure code before calibration.
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

‘‘CAL:SEC:STAT OFF, ‘’’’
For voltage calibration, connect a digital voltmeter (DVM) across the
power supply’s output terminals.
Set the power supply to low-end (MIN) calibration point.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:LEV MIN’’
Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:DATA 0.549’’
Set the power supply to middle (MID) calibration point.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:LEV MID’’
Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:DATA 11.058’’
Set the power supply to high (MAX) calibration point.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:LEV MAX’’
Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:DATA 21.566’’
Set the power supply to overvoltage protection calibration point.
‘‘CAL:VOLT:PROT’’
For current calibration, connect an appropriate current monitoring
resistor (shunt) across the output terminals and connect the DVM
across the shunt resistor.
Repeat the steps (5) through (9) by substituting ‘‘CURR’’ for ‘‘VOLT’’ for
current calibration. For example, ‘‘CAL:CURR:LEV MIN’’
Record calibration information such as next calibration due date or
contact person for future reference. The calibration string may contain
up to 40 characters.
‘‘CALibration:STRing ‘’’’
Notice that you should wait for the DVM reading to stabilize for accurate
calibration.

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Interface Configuration Commands

Interface Configuration Commands
See also "Configuring the Remote Interface" in chapter 3 starting on page 46.
SYSTem:INTerface {GPIB | RS232}

Select the remote interface. Only one interface can be enabled at a time. The
GPIB interface is selected when the power supply is shipped from the factory.
SYSTem:LOCal

Place the power supply in the local mode during RS-232 operation. All keys on
the front panel are fully functional.
SYSTem:REMote

Place the power supply in the remote mode for RS-232 operation. All keys on
the front panel, except the ‘‘Local’’ key, are disabled while in the remote mode.

It is very important that you send the SYST:REM command to place the
power supply in the remote mode. Sending or receiving data over the
RS-232 interface when not configured for remote operation can cause
unpredictable results.
SYSTem:RWLock

Place the power supply in the remote mode for RS-232 operation. This
command is the same as the SYST:REM command except that all keys on the
front panel are disabled, including the ‘‘Local’’ key.


Clear the operation in progress over the RS-232 interface and discard any
pending output data. This is equivalent to the IEEE-488 device clear action

over the GPIB interface.

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The SCPI Status Registers

The SCPI Status Registers
All SCPI instruments implement status registers in the same way. The status
system records various instrument conditions in three register groups: the
Status Byte register, the Standard Event register, and the Questionable Status
register groups. The status byte register records high-level summary
information reported in the other register groups. The diagram on the
subsequent pages illustrates the SCPI status system used by the power supply.
What is an Event Register?

An event register is a read-only register that reports defined conditions within
the power supply. Bits in an event register are latched. Once an event bit is set,
subsequent state changes are ignored. Bits in an event register are
automatically cleared by a query of that register (such as *ESR? or
STAT:QUES:EVEN?) or by sending the *CLS (clear status) command. A reset
(*RST) or device clear will not clear bits in event registers. Querying an event
register returns a decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum
of all bits set in the register.
What is an Enable Register?

An enable register defines which bits in the corresponding event register are
logically ORed together to form a single summary bit. Enable registers are both
readable and writable. Querying an enable register will not clear it. The *CLS
(clear status) command does not clear enable registers but it does clear the
bits in the event registers. To enable bits in an enable register, you must write
a decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of the bits you
wish to enable in the register.

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The SCPI Status Registers

SCPI Status System

QUEStionable Status
Event Register
Voltage
Current
Not Used
Not Used
Temperature
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Overvoltage
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used

Enable Registers
0
1

Output Buffer

4
"OR"

+

9

Status Byte
Summary Register

STAT:QUES?

STAT:QUES:ENAB 
STAT:QUES:ENAB?

Operation Complete
Query Error
Device Depenent Error
Execution Error
Command Error
Power On

OPC
Not Used
QYE
DDE
EXE
CME
Not Used
PON
*ESR?

94

Enable Registers

Enable Register
"OR"

+

3
4
5
6

Serial Poll(SPOLL)
*STB?

Standard Event
Event Register

Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
QUES
MAV
ESB
RQS
Not Used

*SRE 
*SRE?

0
"OR"

2
3
4
5

+

7
*ESE 
*ESE?

Binary Weight
20 = 1
21 = 2
22 = 4
23 = 8
24 = 16
25 = 32
26 = 64
27 = 128
28 = 256
29 = 512
210 = 1024
211 = 2048
212 = 4096
213 = 8192
214 = 16384
215 = 32768

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
The SCPI Status Registers

The Questionable Status Register

The Questionable Status register provides information about voltage and
current regulation. Bit 0 is set when the voltage becomes unregulated, and bit
1 is set if the current becomes unregulated. For example if the power supply
momentarily goes to constant current mode when the power supply is
operating as a voltage source (constant voltage mode), bit 0 is set to indicate
that the voltage output is not regulated.
The Questionable Status register also provides information that the power
supply has an overtemperature condition and that the overvoltage protection
circuits have tripped. Bit 4 reports an overtemperature condition of the fan and
bit 9 reports that the overvoltage protection circuit has tripped. To read the
register, send STATus:QUEStionable?.
Table 4-3. Bit Definitions - Questionable Status Register
Bit

Decimal
Value

Definition

0

Voltage

1

The power supply is/was in the constant current mode.

1

Current

2

The power supply is/was in the constant voltage mode.

Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

Overtemperature

16

The fan has a fault condition.

Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

2-3
4
5-8
9

Over Voltage

512

The overvoltage protection circuit has tripped.

10

Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

11-15 Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

The Questionable Status Event register is cleared when:
• You execute the *CLS (clear status) command.

• You query the event register using STAT:QUES? (Status Questionable
Event register) command.
For example, 16 is returned when you have queried the status of the
questionable event register, the temperature condition is questionable.
The Questionable Status Enable register is cleared when:
• You execute STAT:QUES:ENAB 0 command.

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The SCPI Status Registers

The Standard Event Register

The Standard Event register reports the following types of instrument events:
power-on detected, command syntax errors, command execution errors, selftest or calibration errors, query errors, or when an *OPC command is executed.
Any or all of these conditions can be reported in the standard event summary
bit (ESB, bit 5) of Status Byte register through the enable register. To set the
enable register mask, you write a decimal value to the register using the *ESE
(Event Status Enable) command.

An error condition (Standard Event register bit 2, 3, 4, or 5) will always
record one or more errors in the power supply’s error queue. Read the
error queue using the SYST:ERR? command.
Table 4-4. Bit Definitions – Standard Event Register
Bit

96

0

OPC

1

Not Used

2

QYE

3

DDE

4

EXE

5

CME

6

Not Used

7

PON

Decimal
Value

Definition

1

Operation Complete. All commands prior to and
including an *OPC command have been executed.

0

Always set to 0.

4

Query Error. The power supply tried to read the output
buffer but it was empty. Or, new command line was
received before a previous query had been read. Or, both
the input and output buffers are full.

8

Device Error. A self-test or calibration error occurred
(see error numbers 601 through 750 in chapter 5).

16

Execution Error. An execution error occurred (see error
numbers -211 through -224 in chapter 5).

32

Command Error. A command syntax error occurred (see
error numbers -101 through -178 in chapter 5).

0

Always set to 0.

128

Power On. Power has been turned off and on since the
last time the event register was read or cleared.

Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
The SCPI Status Registers

The Standard Event register is cleared when:
• You execute the *CLS (clear status) command.

• You query the event register using the *ESR? (Event Status register)
command.
For example, 28 (4 + 8 + 16) is returned when you have queried the status of
the Standard Event register, QYE, DDE, and EXE conditions have occurred.
The Standard Event Enable register is cleared when:
• You execute the *ESE 0 command.

• You turn on the power and have previously configured the power supply
using the *PSC 1 command.
• The enable register will not be cleared at power-on if you have previously
configured the power supply using the *PSC 0 command.
The Status Byte Register

The Status Byte summary register reports conditions from the other status
registers. Query data that is waiting in the power supply’s output buffer is
immediately reported through the “Message Available” bit (bit 4) of Status Byte
register. Bits in the summary register are not latched. Clearing an event register
will clear the corresponding bits in the Status Byte summary register. Reading
all messages in the output buffer, including any pending queries, will clear the
message available bit.
Table 4-5. Bit Definitions – Status Byte Summary Register

0-2

Bit

Decimal
Value

Definition

Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

8

One or more bits are set in the questionable status
register (bits must be “enabled” in the enable register).

16

Data is available in the power supply output buffer.

32

One or more bits are set in the standard event register
(bits must be “enabled” in the enable register).

3

QUES

4

MAV

5

ESB

6

RQS

64

The power supply is requesting service (serial poll).

7

Not Used

0

Always set to 0.

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The SCPI Status Registers

The Status Byte Summary register is cleared when:
• You execute the *CLS (clear status) command.

• Querying the Standard Event register (*ESR? command) will clear only bit
5 in the Status Byte summary register.
For example, 24 (8 + 16) is returned when you have queried the status of the
Status Byte register, QUES and MAV conditions have occurred.
The Status Byte Enable register (Request Service) is cleared when:
• You execute the *SRE 0 command.

• You turn on the power and have previously configured the power supply
using the *PSC 1 command.
• The enable register will not be cleared at power-on if you have previously
configured the power supply using *PSC 0.
Using Service Request (SRQ) and Serial POLL

You must configure your bus controller to respond to the IEEE-488 service
request (SRQ) interrupt to use this capability. Use the Status Byte enable
register (*SRE command) to select which summary bits will set the low-level
IEEE-488 service request signal. When bit 6 (request service) is set in the Status
Byte, an IEEE-488 service request interrupt message is automatically sent to
the bus controller. The bus controller may then poll the instruments on the bus
to identify which one requested service (the instrument with bit 6 set in its
Status Byte).

The request service bit is cleared only by reading the Status Byte using an
IEEE-488 serial poll or by reading the event register whose summary bit is
causing the service request.

To read the Status Byte summary register, send the IEEE-488 serial poll
message. Querying the summary register will return a decimal value which
corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of the bits set in the register. Serial
poll will automatically clear the “request service” bit in the Status Byte
summary register. No other bits are affected. Performing a serial poll will not
affect instrument throughput.
Caution

The IEEE-488 standard does not ensure synchronization between your bus controller
program and the instrument. Use the *OPC? command to guarantee that commands
previously sent to the instrument have completed. Executing a serial poll before a
*RST, *CLS, or other commands have completed can cause previous conditions
to be reported.

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The SCPI Status Registers

Using *STB? to Read the Status Byte

The *STB? (Status Byte query) command is similar to a serial poll but it is
processed like any other instrument command. The *STB? command returns
the same result as a serial poll but the “request service” bit (bit 6) is not cleared.
The *STB? command is not handled automatically by the IEEE-488 bus
interface hardware and will be executed only after previous commands have
completed. Polling is not possible using the *STB? command. Executing the
*STB? command does not clear the Status Byte summary register.
Using the Message Available Bit (MAV)

You can use the Status Byte “message available” bit (bit 4) to determine when
data is available to read into your bus controller. The power supply
subsequently clears bit 4 only after all messages have been read from the
output buffer.
To Interrupt Your Bus Controller Using SRQ

1 Send a device clear message to clear the power supply’s output buffer
2
3
4
5

(e.g., CLEAR 705).
Clear the event registers with the *CLS (clear status) command.
Set up the enable register masks. Execute the *ESE command to set up
the Standard Event register and the *SRE command for the Status Byte.
Send the *OPC? (operation complete query) command and enter the
result to ensure synchronization.
Enable your bus controller’s IEEE-488 SRQ interrupt.

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The SCPI Status Registers

To Determine When a Command Sequence is Completed

1 Send a device clear message to clear the power supply’s output buffer
2
3
4
5
6

(e.g., CLEAR 705).
Clear the event registers with the *CLS (clear status) command.
Enable the “operation complete” bit (bit 0) in the Standard Event
register by executing the *ESE 1 command.
Send the *OPC? (operation complete query) command and enter the
result to ensure synchronization.
Execute your command string to program the desired configuration,
and then execute the *OPC (operation complete) command as the last
command. When the command sequence is completed, the “operation
complete” bit (bit 0) is set in the Standard Event register.
Use a serial poll to check to see when bit 5 (standard event) is set in the
Status Byte summary register. You could also configure the power
supply for an SRQ interrupt by sending *SRE 32 (Status Byte enable
register, bit 5).
Using *OPC to Signal When Data is in the Output Buffer

Generally, it is best to use the “operation complete” bit (bit 0) in the Standard
Event register to signal when a command sequence is completed. This bit is
set in the register after an *OPC command has been executed. If you send
*OPC after a command which loads a message in the power supply’s output
buffer (query data), you can use the “operation complete” bit to determine
when the message is available. However, if too many messages are generated
before the *OPC command executes (sequentially), the output buffer will fill
and the power supply will stop processing commands.

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Status Reporting Commands

Status Reporting Commands

See diagram ‘‘SCPI Status System’’, on page 94 in this chapter for detailed
information of the status register structure of the power supply.
SYSTem:ERRor?

Query the power supply’s error queue. A record of up to 20 errors is stored in
the power supply’s error queue. Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out (FIFO)
order. The first error returned is the first error that was stored. When you have
read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off and the errors
are cleared. See ‘‘Error Messages’’, starting on page 113 for more details.
STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition?

Query the Questionable Status condition register to check CV or CC mode of
the power supply. The power supply returns a decimal value which
corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits in the register. These bits
are not latched. If ‘‘0’’ is returned, the power supply is in output off or
unregulated state. If ‘‘1’’ is returned, the power supply is in the CC operating
mode and if ‘‘2’’ is returned, the power supply is in the CV operating mode. If
‘‘3’’ is returned, the power supply is in failure.
STATus:QUEStionable?

Query the Questionable Status event register. The power supply returns a
decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits in the
register. These bits are latched. Reading the event register clears it.
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle 

Enable bits in the Questionable Status enable register. The selected bits are
then reported to the Status Byte.
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle?

Query the Questionable Status enable register. The power supply returns a
binary-weighted decimal representing the bits set in the enable register.
*CLS

Clear all event registers and Status Byte register.
*ESE 

Enable bits in the Standard Event enable register. The selected bits are then
reported to the Status Byte.

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Status Reporting Commands

*ESE?

Query the Standard Event enable register. The power supply returns a decimal
value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits in the register.
*ESR?

Query the Standard event register. The power supply returns a decimal value
which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits in the register.
*OPC

Set the ‘‘Operation Complete’’ bit (bit 0) of the Standard Event register after
the command is executed.
*OPC?

Return ‘‘1’’ to the output buffer after the command is executed.
*PSC { 0 | 1 }

(Power-on status clear.) This command clears the Status Byte and the Standard
Event register enable masks when power is turned on (*PSC 1). When
*PSC 0 is in effect, the Status Byte and Standard Event register enable masks
are not cleared when power is turned on.
*PSC?

Query the power-on status clear setting. The returned parameter is ‘‘0’’
(*PSC 0) or ‘‘1’’ (*PSC 1).
*SRE 

Enable bits in the Status Byte enable register.
*SRE?

Query the Status Byte Enable register. The power supply returns a decimal
value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits set in the enable
register.
*STB?

Query the Status Byte summary register. The *STB? command is similar to a
serial poll but it is processed like any other instrument command. The *STB?
command returns the same result as a serial poll but the ‘‘Request Service’’ bit
(bit 6) is not cleared if a serial poll has occurred.
*WAI

Instruct the power supply to wait for all pending operations to complete before
executing any additional commands over the interface. Used only in the
triggered mode.
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An Introduction to the SCPI Language

An Introduction to the SCPI Language
SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is an ASCIIbased instrument command language designed for test and measurement
instruments. Refer to ‘‘Simplified Programming Overview’’, starting on page 74
for an introduction to the basic techniques used to program the power supply
over the remote interface.
SCPI commands are based on a hierarchical structure, also known as a tree
system. In this system, associated commands are grouped together under a
common node or root, thus forming subsystems. A portion of the SOURce
subsystem is shown below to illustrate the tree system.
[SOURce:]
CURRent {|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
CURRent? [MIN|MAX]
CURRent:
TRIGgered {|MIN|MAX}
TRIGgered?{MIN|MAX}
VOLTage {|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
VOLTage? [MIN|MAX]
VOLTage:
TRIGgered {|MIN|MAX}
TRIGgered? {MIN|MAX}

4

SOURce is the root keyword of the command, CURRent and VOLTage are
second-level keywords, and TRIGgered is third-level keywords. A colon (:)

separates a command keyword from a lower-level keyword.

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An Introduction to the SCPI Language

Command Format Used in This Manual

The format used to show commands in this manual is shown below:
CURRent {|MINimum|MAXimum|UP|DOWN}

The command syntax shows most commands (and some parameters) as a
mixture of upper- and lower-case letters. The upper-case letters indicate the
abbreviated spelling for the command. For shorter program lines, send the
abbreviated form. For better program readability, send the long form.
For example, in the above syntax statement, CURR and CURRENT are both
acceptable forms. You can use upper- or lower-case letters. Therefore,
CURRENT, curr, and Curr are all acceptable. Other forms, such as CUR and
CURREN, will generate an error.

Braces ( { } ) enclose the parameter choices for a given command string. The

braces are not sent with the command string.
A vertical bar ( | ) separates multiple parameter choices for a given command
string.
Triangle brackets ( < > ) indicate that you must specify a value for the enclosed
parameter. For example, the above syntax statement shows the current
parameter enclosed in triangle brackets. The brackets are not sent with the
command string. You must specify a value for the parameter (such as ‘‘CURR
0.1”).
Some parameters are enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ). The brackets indicate
that the parameter is optional and can be omitted. The brackets are not sent
with the command string. If you do not specify a value for an optional
parameter, the power supply chooses a default value.
Some portions of commands are enclosed in square brackets( [ ] ). The
brackets indicate that this portion of the command is optional. Most optional
portions of the command are not shown in the command description. For the
full command showing all the options, see ‘‘SCPI Command Summary’’,
starting on page 69.
A colon ( : ) separates a command keyword from a lower-level keyword. You
must insert a blank space to separate a parameter from a command keyword.
If a command requires more than one parameter, you must separate adjacent
parameter using a comma as shown below:
‘‘SOURce:CURRent:TRIGgered’’
‘‘APPLy 3.5,1.5’’

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Command Separators

A colon ( : ) is used to separate a command keyword from a lower-level keyword
as shown below:
‘‘SOURce:CURRent:TRIGgered’’
A semicolon ( ; ) is used to separate two commands within the same subsystem,
and can also minimize typing. For example, sending the following command
string:
‘‘SOUR:VOLT MIN;CURR MAX’’
... is the same as sending the following two commands:
‘‘SOUR:VOLT MIN’’
‘‘SOUR:CURR MAX’’
Use a colon and a semicolon to link commands from different subsystems. For
example, in the following command string, an error is generated if you do not
use the colon and semicolon:
‘‘DISP:TEXT:CLE;:SOUR:CURR MIN’’
Using the MIN and MAX Parameters

You can substitute MINimum or MAXimum in place of a parameter for many
commands. For example, consider the following command:
CURRent {|MIN|MAX}

Instead of selecting a specific current, you can substitute MINimum to set the
current to its minimum value or MAXimum to set the current to its maximum
value.

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Querying Parameter Settings

You can query the value of most parameters by adding a question mark (?) to
the command. For example, the following command sets the output current
to 5 amps:
‘‘CURR 5’’
You can query the value by executing:
‘‘CURR?’’
You can also query the minimum or maximum value allowed with the present
function as follows:
‘‘CURR? MAX’’
‘‘CURR? MIN’’
Caution

If you send two query commands without reading the response from the first, and then
attempt to read the second response, you may receive some data from the first response
followed by the complete second response. To avoid this, do not send a query
command without reading the response. When you cannot avoid this situation, send
a device clear before sending the second query command.

SCPI Command Terminators

A command string sent to the power supply must terminate with a 
character. The IEEE-488 EOI (end-or-identify) message is interpreted as a
 character and can be used to terminate a command string in place
of a  character. A  followed by a  is
also accepted. Command string termination will always reset the current SCPI
command path to the root level. The  character has the ASCII
decimal code of 10.
IEEE-488.2 Common Commands

The IEEE-488.2 standard defines a set of common commands that perform
functions like reset, self-test, and status operations. Common commands
always begin with an asterisk ( * ), are four to five characters in length, and
may include one or more parameters. The command keyword is separated
from the first parameter by a blank space. Use a semicolon ( ; ) to separate
multiple commands as shown below:
‘‘*RST; *CLS; *ESE 32; *OPC?”

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SCPI Parameter Types

The SCPI language defines several different data formats to be used in program
messages and response messages.

Numeric Parameters Commands that require numeric parameters will

accept all commonly used decimal representations of numbers including
optional signs, decimal points, and scientific notation. Special values for
numeric parameters like MINimum, MAXimum, and DEFault are also accepted.
You can also send engineering unit suffixes (V, A or SEC) with numeric
parameters. If only specific numeric values are accepted, the power supply will
automatically round the input numeric parameters. The following command
uses a numeric parameter:
CURR {|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}

Discrete Parameters Discrete parameters are used to program settings that
have a limited number of values (like BUS, IMM). Query responses will always
return the short form in all upper-case letters. The following command uses
discrete parameters:
TRIG:SOUR {BUS|IMM}

Boolean Parameters Boolean parameters represent a single binary

condition that is either true or false. For a false condition, the power supply
will accept ‘‘OFF’’ or ‘‘ 0 ’’. For a true condition, the power supply will accept
‘‘ON’’ or ‘‘ 1 ’’. When you query a boolean setting, the power supply will always
return ‘‘ 0 ’’ or ‘‘ 1 ’’. The following command uses a boolean parameter:
DISP {OFF|ON}

String Parameters String parameters can contain virtually any set of ASCII
characters. A string must begin and end with matching quotes; either with a
single quote or with a double quote. You can include the quote delimiter as part
of the string by typing it twice without any characters in between. The
following command uses a string parameter:
DISP:TEXT 

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Halting an Output in Progress

Halting an Output in Progress
You can send a device clear at any time to stop an output in progress over the
GPIB interface. The status registers, the error queue, and all configuration
states are left unchanged when a device clear message is received. Device clear
performs the following actions.
• The power supply’s input and output buffers are cleared.
• The power supply is prepared to accept a new command string.
• The following statement shows how to send a device clear over the GPIB
interface using Agilent BASIC.
‘‘CLEAR 705’’
IEEE-488 Device Clear
• The following statement shows how to send a device clear over the GPIB
interface using the GPIB Command Library for C or QuickBASIC.
‘‘IOCLEAR (705)’’

For RS-232 operation, sending the  character will perform the
same operation as the IEEE-488 device clear message. The power
supply’s DTR (data terminal ready) handshake line is set true following
a device clear message.

Note

All remote interface configurations can be entered only from the front panel. See
‘‘Remote Interface Configuration’’ in chapter 3 to configure for GPIB or RS-232
interface before operating the power supply remotely.

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SCPI Conformance Information

SCPI Conformance Information
The power supply conforms to the ‘1996.0’ version of the SCPI standard. Many
of the commands required by the standard are accepted by the power supply
but are not described in this manual for simplicity or clarity. Most of these nondocumented commands duplicate the functionality of a command already
described in this manual.
SCPI Confirmed Commands

The following table lists the SCPI-confirmed commands that are used by the
power supply.
DISPlay
[:WINDow][:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:WINDow][:STATe]?
[:WINDow]:TEXT[:DATA] 
[:WINDow]:TEXT[:DATA]?
[:WINDow]:TEXT:CLEar

4

INITiate[:IMMediate]
MEASure
:CURRent[:DC]?
[:VOLTage][:DC]?
OUTPut
[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
[:STATE]?
[SOURce]
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [MIN|MAX]
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {|DEFault}
:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? {DEFault}
:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX}
:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]

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SCPI Conformance Information

SCPI Confirmed Commands (continued)
[SOURce]
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX|UP|DOWN}
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {|DEFault}
:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? {DEFault}
:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {|MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]?[MIN|MAX]
:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel] {|MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]? {MIN|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {0|1|OFF|ON}
:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?
:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?
:VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar
:VOLTage:RANGe {P8V|P20V|LOW|HIGH}
(E3640A/42A/44A models)
:VOLTage:RANGe {P35V|P60V|LOW|HIGH}
(E3641A/43A/45A models)
:VOLTage:RANGe?
STATus
:QUEStionable:CONDition?
:QUEStionable[:EVENt]?
:QUEStionable:ENABle 
:QUEStionable:ENABle?
SYSTem
:BEEPer[:IMMediate]
:ERRor?
:VERSion
TRIGger
[:SEQuence]:DELay {|MIN|MAX}
[:SEQuence]:DELay?
[:SEQuence]:SOURce{BUS|IMM}
[:SEQuence]:SOURce?

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SCPI Conformance Information

Device Specific Commands

The following commands are device-specific to your power supply. They are
not included in the ‘1997.0’ version of the SCPI standard. However, these
commands are designed with the SCPI standard in mind and they follow all of
the command syntax rules defined by the standard.
Non-SCPI Commands
APPLy {|DEF|MIN|MAX>}[,{|DEF|MIN|MAX}]
APPLy?
CALibration
:COUNt?
:CURRent[:DATA] 
:CURRent:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:SECure:CODE 
:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},
:SECure:STATe?
:STRing 
:STRing?
:VOLTage[:DATA] 
:VOLTage:LEVel {MIN|MID|MAX}
:VOLTage:PROTection

4

OUTPut
:RELay[:STATe] {OFF|ON}
:RELay[:STATE]?
SYSTem
:LOCal
:REMote
:RWLock

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IEEE-488 Conformance Information

IEEE-488 Conformance Information
Dedicated Hardware Lines

ATN
IFC
REN
SRQ

Attention
Interface Clear
Remote Enable
Service Request Enable

Addressed Commands

DCL
EOI
GET
GTL
LLO
SDC
SPD
SPE

112

Device Clear
End or Identify
Group Execute Trigger
Go To Local
Local Lockout
Selected Device Clear
Serial Poll Disable
Serial Poll Enable

IEEE-488 Common Commands

*CLS
*ESE 
*ESE?
*ESR?
*IDN?
*OPC
*OPC?
*PSC {0|1}
*PSC?
*RST
*SAV {1|2|3|4|5}
*RCL {1|2|3|4|5}
*SRE 
*SRE?
*STB?
*TRG
*TST?
*WAI

5

Error Messages

Error Messages

Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out (FIFO) order. The first error returned
is the first error that was stored. Errors are cleared as you read them. When
you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off and
the errors are cleared. The power supply beeps once each time an error is
generated.
If more than 20 errors have occurred, the last error stored in the queue (the
most recent error) is replaced with -350, ‘‘Queue overflow’’. No additional
errors are stored until you remove errors from the queue. If no errors have
occurred when you read the error queue, the supply responds with +0,
‘‘No error’’ over the remote interface or ‘‘NO ERRORS’’ from the front panel.
The error queue is cleared by the *CLS (clear status) command or when power
is cycled. The errors are also cleared when you read the queue.
Note that the *RST (reset command) command does not clear the error queue.

• Front-panel operation:

Press
(Local) key to return to front-panel operation mode if you
operate power supply in remote operation mode.
Store

Local

View

ERRORS

If the ERROR annunciator is on, press
to view the errors. Use the
knob to scroll through the error numbers. Press > to view the text of the
error message. Press > to increase the scrolling speed of the text on the
display. All errors are cleared when you exit the menu by pressing the
or let the display time out for about 30 seconds.
View

View

• Remote interface operation:
SYSTem:ERRor?

Read and clear one error from the error queue

Errors have the following format (the error string may contain up to 80
characters).
-102, ‘‘Syntax error’’

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Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors

Execution Errors

-101

Invalid character
An invalid character was found in the command string. You may have inserted
a character such as #, $, or % in the command keyword or within a parameter.
Example: OUTP:STAT #ON

-102

Syntax error
Invalid syntax was found in the command string. You may have inserted a blank
space before or after a colon in the command header, or before a comma.
Example: VOLT:LEV ,1

-103

Invalid separator
An invalid separator was found in the command string. You may have used a
comma instead of a colon, semicolon, or blank space - or you may have used
a blank space instead of a comma.
Example: TRIG:SOUR,BUS or APPL 1.0 1.0

-104

Data type error
The wrong parameter type was found in the command string. You may have
specified a number where a string was expected, or vice versa.

-105

GET not allowed
A Group Execute Trigger (GET) is not allowed within a command string.

-108

Parameter not allowed
More parameters were received than expected for the command. You may have
entered an extra parameter, or you added a parameter to a command that does
not accept a parameter.
Example: APPL? 10

-109

Missing parameter
Fewer parameters were received than expected for the command. You omitted
one or more parameters that are required for this command.
Example: APPL

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Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors

-112

Program mnemonic too long
A command header was received which contained more than the maximum 12
characters allowed.

-113

Undefined header
A command was received that is not valid for this power supply. You may have
misspelled the command or it may not be a valid command. If you are using
the short form of the command, remember that it may contain up to four letters.
Example: TRIGG:DEL 3

-121

Invalid character in number
An invalid character was found in the number specified for a parameter value.
Example: *ESE #B01010102

-123

Numeric overflow
A numeric parameter was found whose exponent was larger than 32,000.

-124

Too many digits
A numeric parameter was found whose mantissa contained more than 255
digits, excluding leading zeros.

-128

Numeric data not allowed
A numeric parameter was received but a character string was expected.
Example: DISP:TEXT 123

-131

Invalid suffix
A suffix was incorrectly specified for a numeric parameter. You may have
misspelled the suffix.
Example: TRIG:DEL 0.5 SECS

-134

Suffix too long
A suffix for a numeric parameter contained too many characters.

-138

Suffix not allowed
A suffix was received following a numeric parameter which does not accept a
suffix.
Example: STAT:QUES:ENAB 18 SEC (SEC is not a valid suffix).

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Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors

-141

Invalid character data
Either the character data element contained an invalid character or the
particular element received was not valid for the header.

-144

Character data too long
The character data element contained too many characters.

-148

Character data not allowed
A discrete parameter was received but a character string or a numeric
parameter was expected. Check the list of parameters to verify that you have
used a valid parameter type.
Example: DISP:TEXT ON

-151

Invalid string data
An invalid character string was received. Check to see if you have enclosed
the character string in single or double quotes.
Example: DISP:TEXT ’ON

-158

String data not allowed
A character string was received but is not allowed for the command. Check
the list of parameters to verify that you have used a valid parameter type.
Example: TRIG:DEL ‘zero’

-160 to -168

Block data errors
The power supply does not accept block data.

-170 to -178

Expression errors
The power supply does not accept mathematical expressions.

-211

Trigger ignored
A Group Execute Trigger (GET) or *TRG was received but the trigger was
ignored. Make sure that the trigger source should be selected to the bus and
the trigger subsystem should be initiated by INIT[:IMM] command.

-213

Init ignored
An INITiate command was received but could not be executed because a
measurement was already in progress. Send a device clear to halt a
measurement in progress and place the power supply in the ‘‘idle’’ state.

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Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors

-221

Settings conflict
Indicates that a legal program data element was parsed but could not be
executed due to the current device state.

-222

Data out of range
A numeric parameter value is outside the valid range for the command.
Example: TRIG:DEL -3

-223

Too much data
A character string was received but could not be executed because the string
length was more than 40 characters. This error can be generated by the
CALibration:STRing command.

-224

Illegal parameter value
A discrete parameter was received which was not a valid choice for the
command. You may have used an invalid parameter choice.
Example: DISP:STAT XYZ (XYZ is not a valid choice).

-330

Self-test failed
The power supply’s complete self-test failed from the remote interface (*TST?
command). In addition to this error, more specific self-test errors are also
reported. See also ‘‘Self-Test Errors’’, starting on page 120.

-350

Queue overflow
The error queue is full because more than 20 errors have occurred. No
additional errors are stored until you remove errors from the queue. The error
queue is cleared when power has been off, or after a *CLS (clear status)
command has been executed.

-410

Query INTERRUPTED
A command was received which sends data to the output buffer, but the output
buffer contained data from a previous command (the previous data is not
overwritten). The output buffer is cleared when power has been off, or after a
*RST (reset) command has been executed.

118

Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors

-420

Query UNTERMINATED
The power supply was addressed to talk (i.e., to send data over the interface)
but a command has not been received which sends data to the output buffer.
For example, you may have executed an APPLy command (which does not
generate data) and then attempted an ENTER statement to read data from the
remote interface.

-430

Query DEADLOCKED
A command was received which generates too much data to fit in the output
buffer and the input buffer is also full. Command execution continues but all
data is lost.

-440

Query UNTERMINATED after indefinite response
The *IDN? command must be the last query command within a command
string.
Example: *IDN?;:SYST:VERS?

501

Isolator UART framing error

502

Isolator UART overrun error

511

RS-232 framing error

512

RS-232 overrun error

513

RS-232 parity error

514

Command allowed only with RS-232
There are three commands which are only allowed with the RS-232 interface:
SYSTem:LOCal, SYSTem:REMote, and SYSTem:RWLock.

521

Input buffer overflow

522

Output buffer overflow

550

Command not allowed in local
You should always execute the SYSTem:REMote command before sending
other commands over the RS-232 interface.

5

119

Chapter 5 Error Messages
Self-Test Errors

Self-Test Errors
The following errors indicate failures that may occur during a self-test. Refer
to the Service Information for more information.

601

Front panel does not respond

602

RAM read/write failed

603

A/D sync stuck

604

A/D slope convergence failed

605

Cannot calibrate rundown gain

606

Rundown gain out of range

607

Rundown too noisy

608

Serial configuration readback failed

624

Unable to sense line frequency

625

I/O processor does not respond

626

I/O processor failed self-test

630

Fan test failed

631

System DAC test failed

632

Hardware test failed

120

Chapter 5 Error Messages
Calibration Errors

Calibration Errors
The following errors indicate failures that may occur during a calibration.
Refer to the Service Information for more information.

701

Cal security disabled by jumper
The calibration security feature has been disabled with a jumper inside the
power supply. When applicable, this error will occur at power-on to warn you
that the power supply is unsecured.

702

Cal secured
The power supply is secured against calibration.

703

Invalid secure code
An invalid calibration security code was received when attempting to unsecure
or secure the power supply. You must use the same security code to unsecure
the power supply as was used to secure it, and vice versa. The security code
may contain up to 11 alphanumeric characters.

704

Secure code too long
A security code was received which contained more than 12 characters.

705

Cal aborted
A calibration in progress is aborted when you press any front-panel key, send
a device clear, or change the local/remote state of the instrument.

706

Cal value out of range
The specified calibration value (CALibration:VALue) is not valid for the
present measurement function and range.

708

Cal output disabled
Calibration is aborted by sending OUTP
output.

712

Bad DAC cal data
The specified DAC calibration values (CAL:VOLT or CAL:CURR) are out of
range. Note that the new calibration constants are not stored in the non-volatile
memory.

OFF command during calibrating a

121

5

Chapter 5 Error Messages
Calibration Errors

713

Bad readback cal data
The specified readback calibration values (CAL:VOLT or CAL:CURR) are out
of range. Note that the new calibration constants are not stored in the nonvolatile memory.

714

Bad OVP cal data
The overvoltage protection calibration constant is out of range. Note that the
new calibration constants are not stored in the non-volatile memory.

717

Cal OVP status enabled
Overvoltage protection status is enabled. You must set overvoltage to OFF
before and during the calibration.

718

Gain out of range for Gain Error Correction
The slope of the DAC gain is out of range. Hardware fails.

740

Cal checksum failed, secure state

741

Cal checksum failed, string data

743

Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 1

744

Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 2

745

Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 3

746

Cal checksum failed, DAC cal constants

747

Cal checksum failed, readback cal constants

748

Cal checksum failed, GPIB address

749

Cal checksum failed, internal data

754

Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 4

755

Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 5

122

6

Application Programs

Application Programs

This chapter contains two application programs that utilize the remote
interface. These examples will help you develop programs for your own
application. Chapter 4 “Remote Interface Reference” starting on page 67 lists
the syntax for the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments)
commands available to program the power supply.
The examples
in this chapter
have been tested on a PC running Windows® 3.1,
®
®
Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0. The examples are written for use over
GPIB (IEEE 488) or RS-232. But the examples for use over the RS-232 interface
do not work with Windows 3.1. These examples require a VISA (Virtual
Instrument Software Architecture) driver for use with your GPIB
interface
®
3.1
or
card in your PC. You should
have
the
“
visa.dll
”
for
Windows
“visa32.dll” for Windows® 95 or Windows® NT 4.0 in your c:\windows\system
directory to have the examples in this chapter run properly. The examples step
through voltages and make corresponding current readings to characterize a
power diode.

124

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for C and C++

Example Program for C and C++
The following C programming example shows you how to send and receive
formatted I/O. This example programming shows you how to use the SCPI
commands for the instrument with the VISA functionality and does include
error trapping. For more information on non-formatted I/O and error trapping,
refer to the Agilent Technologies VISA User’s Guide.
The following C programming example was written in Microsoft® Visual C++
version 1.52 using project type “QuickWin application’’, and using the large
memory model and C++ version 4.x or 5.0 using project
type “Windows 32
® 3.1) or visa32.lib
application’’.
Be
sure
to
move
the
“
visa.lib
(Windows
(Windows® 95/NT)” and “visa.h” file to the lib and include development
directory. These are usually found in the c:\vxipnp\win(win95 or winnt)\lib\msc
or c:\vxipnp\win (win95 or winnt)\include directory.
Diode.c
/*Diode.C
This example program steps the power supply through 11 voltages and measures the current
response. It prints the voltage step and the current response as a table. Note that the
GPIB address is the default address from the factory for the power supply.*/
#include
#include
#include
#include
#include
#include








ViSession
defaultRM;
ViSession
power_supply;
int
bGPIB = 1;
long
ErrorStatus;
char
commandString[256];
char
ReadBuffer[256];
void
void
void
void

/*
/*
/*
/*

Resource manager id
Identifies power supply
Set the number to 0 for use with the RS-232
VISA Error code

*/
*/
*/
*/

delay(clock_t wait);
SendSCPI(char* pString);
CheckError(char* pMessage);
OpenPort();

void main()
{
double
char
double

voltage;
Buffer[256];
current;

/* Value of voltage sent to power supply
/* String returned from power supply
/* Value of current output of power supply

*/
*/
*/

Continued on next page
125

6

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for C and C++

OpenPort();
/* Query the power supply id, read response and print it */
sprintf(Buffer,"*IDN?");
SendSCPI(Buffer);
printf("Instrument identification string:\n
%s\n\n",Buffer);
SendSCPI("*RST");
SendSCPI("Current 2");
SendSCPI("Output on");
printf("Voltage

/* Set power-on condition
/* Set current limit to 2A
/* Turn output on
Current\n\n");

*/
*/
*/

/* Print heading

*/

/*Step from 0.6 to 0.8 volt in 0.02 steps */
for(voltage = 0.6; voltage <=0.8001; voltage +=0.02)
{
printf("%.3f",voltage);
/* Display diode voltage*/
/* Set output voltage */
ErrorStatus = viPrintf(power_supply,"Volt %f\n",voltage);
if(!bGPIB)
delay(500);/* 500 msec wating for RS-232 port*/
CheckError("Unable to set voltage");
/* Measure output current */
ErrorStatus = viPrintf(power_supply,"Measure:Current?\n");
CheckError("Unable to write device");
delay(500);
/* Allow output to wait for 500 msec */
/* Retrieve reading */
ErrorStatus = viScanf(power_supply,"%lf",¤t);
CheckError("Unable to read voltage");
printf("%6.4f\n",current);
/* Display diode current */
}
SendSCPI("Output off");
/* Turn output off */
ClosePort();
}
/*
/*
/*
/*

Build the address required to open commnuication with GPIB card or RS-232.*/
The address format looks like this: "GPIB0::5::INSTR".
*/
To use the RS-232 interface using COM1 port, change it to "ASRL1::INSTR"
*/
address format */

void OpenPort()
{
char
GPIB_Address[3];
char
COM_Address[2];
char
VISA_address[40];
if(bGPIB)
strcpy(GPIB_Address,"5");
else
strcpy(COM_Address,"1");

/* Complete VISA address sent to card

*/

/* Select GPIB address between 0 to 30*/
/* Set the number to 2 for COM2 port */

Continued on next page
126

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for C and C++

if(bGPIB){ /* For use with GPIB 7 address, use "GPIB::7::INSTR" address format */
strcpy(VISA_address,"GPIB::");
strcat(VISA_address,GPIB_Address);
strcat(VISA_address,"::INSTR");
}
else{
/* For use with COM2 port, use "ASRL2::INSTR" address format
*/
strcpy(VISA_address,"ASRL");
strcat(VISA_address,COM_Address);
strcat(VISA_address,"::INSTR");
}
/* Open communication session with the power supply */
ErrorStatus = viOpenDefaultRM(&defaultRM);
ErrorStatus = viOpen(defaultRM,VISA_address,0,0,&power_supply);
CheckError("Unable to open port");
if(!bGPIB)
SendSCPI("System:Remote");
}
void
SendSCPI(char* pString)
{
char* pdest;
strcpy(commandString,pString);
strcat(commandString,"\n");
ErrorStatus = viPrintf(power_supply,commandString);
CheckError("Can’t Write to Driver");
if (bGPIB == 0)
delay(1000);
/* Unit is milliseconds */
pdest = strchr(commandString, ’?’);
/* Search for query command
if( pdest != NULL ){
ErrorStatus = viScanf(power_supply,"%s",&ReadBuffer);
CheckError("Can’t Read From Driver");
strcpy(pString,ReadBuffer);
}

*/

6

}
void ClosePort()
{
/* Close the communication port */
viClose(power_supply);
viClose(defaultRM);
}

Continued on next page

127

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for C and C++

void CheckError(char* pMessage)
{
if (ErrorStatus < VI_SUCCESS){
printf("\n %s",pMessage);
ClosePort();
exit(0);
}
}
void delay(clock_t wait)
{
clock_t goal;
goal = wait + clock();
while( goal > clock() ) ;
}

End of Program

128

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

Example Program for Excel 97
This section
contains the example program written using Excel Macros (Visual
Basic® for Applications) to control your power supply. With Excel you can
take the value of a cell in a spread sheet, send it to the power supply, and then
record the response on the worksheet. The example on the following pages
characterizes a component across the terminals of the power supply. This
example reads 11 voltages from a worksheet, programs the power supply to
that voltage, and then reads the current. The value of current is recorded next
to the voltage on the spread sheet.
Example
program result

The following table shows the result of the example program starting on page
131 for characterizing a diode. (Agilent
Part number: 1901-1214, Manufacturer
Part number: MUR160, Motorola® Co.)

6

129

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

To write an Excel macro you must first open a module in Excel. Go to the View
menu, choose Toolbars, and then select Control Toolbox. The Control Toolbox
dialog box appears. Select the Command button in the dialog box. Click cell
A1 and drag across the cell B3. The “CommandButton1” box is created. To
change the button name, click the right mouse button on that button and then
select Properties. The Properties dialog box appears. In the Properties dialog,
change the “(name)” and “caption” to “Diode”. To try the example for
characterizing a diode, type “Voltages” in cell A4 and “Current” in cell B4. In
cell A5 type 0.6. Fill in the cells A5 to A15 in 0.02 increments so that cell A15
contains 0.8.
To enter the “Diode” macro example in this section, go to the View menu,
choose Toolbars, and then Visual Basic Editor icon. The “Code window”
appears. Then type the text as shown on page 139
into the “[Moudle1 (code)]”
window. To enter the declaration for Windows® 95/NT, go to the Insert menu,
choose Module. The “Module window” appears. Then type the text as shown
starting on page 141. This module will configure all of the overhead required
to communicate with the power supply over the interface. Choose the
preferred interface by setting “bGPIB=” to “True” or “False” and change the
GPIB address or RS-232 port in the routine “OpenPort( )’’ contained in the
module.
To run the macro, return back to the Excel window and select the Run Macro
button in the dialog box and choose the macro name, and then click on the
Run button . The power supply will reset to power on condition and then step
through the voltages in the worksheet. After each step the current is measured,
and recorded in the worksheet.
Make any changes necessary to suit your application in the “Diode’’ module.
You must enter the information in the modules exactly as shown or error will
be generated. If several system errors occur while attempting to run a macro,
you may have to reboot your PC to get the GPIB port or RS-232 port to work
properly.
Note

To use the example with Window® 3.1, you will need to modify the declarations at
the top of the module. Change ‘visa32.dll’ to ‘visa.dll’ in all declarations.

130

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

Diode Macro
'"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
' This is the subroutine first executed. Modify this routine to suit
' your needs. To change the GPIB address, go to the module OpenPort, and
' change the variable GPIB_Address = "5” to the required GPIB address.
' To change the RS-232 port, go to the moudle OpenPort, and change the
' variable COM_Address = "1” to the required port
'"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Global defaultRM As Long
' Resource manager id for VISA GPIB
Global power_supply As Long ' Identifies power supply
Global bGPIB As Boolean
' A flag using of GPIB or RS-232
Global ErrorStatus As Long ' VISA Error code
Sub Diode_Click()
Range("B5:B15").ClearContents
Dim I As Integer
bGPIB = True
' To use RS-232, set the bGPIB to False
OpenPort
SendSCPI "*RST"
' Set power-on condition
SendSCPI "Output on" ' Turn on the output
For I = 5 To 15
SendSCPI "Volt " & Str$(Cells(I, 1))
Cells(I, 2) = Val(SendSCPI("Meas:Current?"))
Next I
SendSCPI "Output off" ' Turn off the output
ClosePort
End Sub
Private Function OpenPort()
Dim GPIB_Address As String
Dim COM_Address As String
If bGPIB Then
GPIB_Address = "5"
' Select GPIB address between 0 to 30
Else
COM_Address = "1"
' Set the number to 2 for COM2 port
End If
ErrorStatus = viOpenDefaultRM(defaultRM)
' Open the VISA session
If bGPIB Then
ErrorStatus = viOpen(defaultRM, "GPIB0::" & GPIB_Address & "::INSTR", _
0, 1000, power_supply)
Else
ErrorStatus = viOpen(defaultRM, "ASRL" & COM_Address & "::INSTR", _
0, 1000, power_supply)
SendSCPI "System:Remote"
End If
CheckError "Unable to open port"
End Function

6

Continued on next page
131

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

'*********************************************************************************
' This routine send a SCPI command string to the GPIB port or RS-232 port.
' If the command contains a question mark, the response is read, and returned
'**********************************************************************************
Private Function SendSCPI(command As String) As string
Dim commandString As String
' Command passed to power supply
Dim ReturnString As String
' Store the string returned
Dim crlfpos As Integer
' Location of any nul’s in Read Buffer
Dim ReadBuffer As String * 512
' Buffer used for returned string
Dim actual As Long
' Number of characters sent/returned
commandString = command & Chr$(10)
' The instrumented by linefeed
ErrorStatus = viWrite(power_supply, ByVal commandString, Len(commandString), _
actual)
CheckError "Can’t Write to Device"
If bGPIB = False Then
delay 0.5
End If
If InStr(commandString, "?") Then
ErrorStatus = viRead(power_supply, ByVal ReadBuffer, 512, actual)
CheckError "Can’t Read From Device"
ReturnString = ReadBuffer
crlfpos = InStr(ReturnString, Chr$(0))
If crlfpos Then
ReturnString = Left(ReturnString, crlfpos - 1)
End If
SendSCPI = ReturnString
End If
End Function
Private Function ClosePort()
ErrorStatus = viClose(power_supply)
ErrorStatus = viClose(defaultRM)
End Function
Private Function delay(delay_time As Single)
Dim Finish As Single
Finish = Timer + delay_time
Do
Loop Until Finish <= Timer
End Function
Private Function CheckError(ErrorMessage As String)
If ErrorStatus < VI_SUCCESS Then
Cells(5, 2) = ErrorMessage
ClosePort
End
End If
End Function

End of Program
132

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

Declaration for Windows 3.1
'************************************************************************************
' This routine requires the file VISA.dll. It typically resides in the
' c:\windows\system directory. Additional declations for VISA.DLL are usally in file
' visa.bas under c:\vxipnp\win31\include directory on your PC. This routine uses the
' VTL Library to send commands to an instrument. A description of these and additional
' VTL commands are contained in the Agilent Technologies Visa Transition Library book
' Agilent Part Number E2094-90002.
'************************************************************************************
Declare Function viOpenDefaultRM Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#141" (viDefaultRM As Long) As Long
Declare Function viOpen Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#131" (ByVal viDefaultRM As Long, ByVal viDesc
As String, ByVal mode As Long, ByVal timeout As Long, vi As Long) As Long
Declare Function viClose Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#132" (ByVal vi As Long) As Long
Declare Function viRead Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#256" (ByVal vi As Long, ByVal Buffer As
String, ByVal count As Long, retCount As Long) As Long
Declare Function viWrite Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#257" (ByVal vi As Long, ByVal Buffer As
String, ByVal count As Long, retCount As Long) As Long
Declare Function viClear Lib "VISA.DLL" Alias "#260" (ByVal vi As Long) As Long

Declaration for Windows 95/NT 4.0
'************************************************************************************
' Additional declations for VISA32.DLL are usally in file visa32.bas under
' c:\vxipnp\win95(or winNT)\include directory on your PC. Also see the VISA manual
'************************************************************************************
Declare Function viOpenDefaultRM Lib "visa32.dll" (instrumentHandle As Long) As Long
Declare Function viOpen Lib "visa32.dll" (ByVal instrumentHandle As Long, _
ByVal viDesc As String, ByVal mode As Long, ByVal timeout As Long, _
vi As Long) As Long
Declare Function viClose Lib "visa32.dll" (ByVal vi As Long) As Long
Declare Function viWrite Lib "visa32.dll" (ByVal vi As Long, ByVal Buffer As String, _
ByVal count As Long, retCount As Long) As Long
Declare Function viRead Lib "visa32.dll" (ByVal vi As Long, ByVal Buffer As String, _
ByVal count As Long, retCount As Long) As Long

133

6

Chapter 6 Application Programs
Example Program for Excel 97

134

7

Tutorial

Tutorial

This chapter describes basic operation of linear power supply and operation
of this power supply. You will also find information to help you better
understand output characteristics of this power supply as well as an ideal
power supply. This chapter is divided into the following sections:
•
•
•
•

Overview of this Power Supply Operation, on page 137
Output Characteristics, on page 139
Extending the Voltage and Current Range, on page 143
Remote Programming, on page 144

136

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Overview of this Power Supply Operation

Overview of this Power Supply Operation
The basic design model for power supplies consists of placing a control
element in series with the rectifier and load device. Figure 7-1 shows a
simplified schematic of a series regulated supply with the phase-controlled
pre-regulator described as a power switch and the series element depicted as
a variable resistor. The phase-controlled pre-regulator minimizes the power
dissipated at the series element by maintaining the voltage drop across the
series element at a low and constant. Feedback control circuits continuously
monitor the output and adjust the series resistance to maintain a constant
output voltage. Because the variable resistance of Figure 7-1 is actually one or
more power transistor operating in the linear (class A) mode, supplies with
this type of regulator are often called linear power supplies. Linear power
supplies have many advantages and usually provide the simplest most effective
means of satisfying high performance and low power requirements.

Figure 7-1. Diagram of Simple Series Power Supply

This power supply has two ranges, allowing more voltage at a lower current
or more current at a lower voltage. Single range supplies can only output
maximum power at full scale voltages and full scale current. This supply can
provide output power that is close to maximum at full scale for both ranges.
The pre-regulator in this power supply uses solid state transformer tap
switches on the secondary winding of the power transformer. This technique
is very effective in reducing the power dissipated in the series element.

137

7

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Overview of this Power Supply Operation

In terms of performance, a linear regulated supply has a very precise regulating
properties and responds quickly to variations of the line and load. Hence, its
line and load regulation and transient recovery time are superior to supplies
using other regulation techniques. The power supply also exhibits low ripple
and noise, is tolerant of ambient temperature changes, and with its circuit
simplicity, has a high reliability.
This power supply contains a linear regulated power supply. It is controlled by
a control circuit that provides voltages to program the outputs. The power
supply sends back to the control circuits a voltage representing the output at
the terminals. The control circuits receive information from the front panel
and send information to the display. Similarly the control circuits ‘’talk’’ to the
remote interface for input and output with the GPIB and RS-232 interfaces.
The remote interface is at earth ground and optically isolated from the control
circuit and the power supply.

GPIB
OPTICAL
ISOLATION

RS-232

CONTROL
DISPLAY

POWER
SUPPLY
OUTPUT

+

-

Figure 7-2. Block Diagram of the Power Supply Showing the Optical Isolation

138

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Output Characteristics

Output Characteristics
An ideal constant-voltage power supply would have a zero output impedance
at all frequencies. Thus, as shown in Figure 7-3, the voltage would remain
perfectly constant in spite of any changes in output current demanded by the
load.

Figure 7-3. Ideal Constant Voltage
Power Supply

Figure 7-4. Ideal Constant Current
Power Supply

The ideal constant-current power supply exhibits an infinite output impedance
at all frequencies. Thus as Figure 7-4 indicates, the ideal constant-current
power supply would accommodate a load resistance change by altering its
output voltage by just the amount necessary to maintain its output current at
a constant value.
The output of this power supply can operate in either constant-voltage (CV)
mode or constant-current (CC) mode. Under certain fault conditions, the
power supply can not operate in either CV or CC mode and becomes
unregulated.

7

139

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Output Characteristics

Figure 7-5 shows the operating modes of the output of this power supply. The
operating point of one supply will be either above or below the line RL = RC.
This line represents a load where the output voltage and the output current are
equal to the voltage and current setting. When the load RL is greater than RC,
the output voltage will dominate since the current will be less then the current
setting. The power supply is said to be in constant voltage mode. The load at
point 1 has a relatively high resistance value (compared to RC), the output
voltage is at the voltage setting, and the output current is less than the current
setting. In this case the power supply is in the constant voltage mode and the
current setting acts as a current limit.

Figure 7-5. Output Characteristics

When the load RL is less than RC, the output current will dominate since the
voltage will be less than the set voltage. The power supply is said to be in
constant current mode. The load at point 2 has a relatively low resistance, the
output voltage is less than the voltage setting, the output current is at the
current setting. The supply is in constant current mode and the voltage setting
acts as a voltage limit.

140

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Output Characteristics

Unregulated State

If the power supply should go into a mode of operation that is neither CV or
CC, the power supply is unregulated. In this mode the output is not predictable.
The unregulated condition may be the result of the ac line voltage below the
specifications. The unregulated condition may occur momentarily. For
example when the output is programmed for a large voltage step; the output
capacitor or a large capacitive load will charge up at the current limit setting.
During the ramp up of the output voltage the power supply will be in the
unregulated mode. During the transition from CV to CC as when the output is
shorted, the unregulated state may occur briefly during the transition.
Unwanted Signals

An ideal power supply has a perfect dc output with no signals across the
terminals or from the terminals to earth ground. The actual power supply has
finite noise across the output terminals, and a finite current will flow through
any impedance connected from either terminal to earth ground. The first is
called normal mode voltage noise and the second common mode current
noise. Figure 7-6 shows the simplified diagram of common mode and normal
mode sources of noise.
Normal mode voltage noise is in the form of ripple related to the line frequency
plus some random noise. Both of these are of very low value in the power
supply. Careful lead layout and keeping the power supply circuitry away from
power devices and other noise sources will keep these values low.
Common mode noise can be a problem for very sensitive circuitry that is
referenced to earth ground. When a circuit is referenced to earth ground, a low
level line—related ac current will flow from the output terminals to earth
ground. Any impedance to earth ground will create a voltage drop equal to the
current flow multiplied by the impedance. To minimize this effect, the output
terminal can be grounded at the output terminal. Alternately, any impedances
to earth ground should have a complementary impedance to earth ground to
cancel any generated voltages. If the circuit is not referenced to earth ground,
common mode power line noise is typically not a problem.
The output will also change due to changes in the load. As the load increases
the output current will cause a small drop in the output voltage of the power
supply due to the output impedance R. Any resistance in the connecting wire
will add to this resistance and increase the voltage drop. Using the largest
possible hook up wire will minimize the voltage drop. Using the remote sense
leads at the load will compensate for lead resistance in the load leads.

141

7

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Output Characteristics

NORMAL
MODE
NOISE

OUTPUT
VOLTAGE

R

<5mVpp*
<0.5mVrms*
<8mVpp**
<1mVrms**

OUTPUT
TERMINAL

COMMON
MODE
NOISE
<1.5 uArms

*E3640A/41A/44A models
**E3641A/43A/45A models

Figure 7-6. Simplified Diagram of Common Mode and Normal Mode
Sources of Noise

When the load changes very rapidly, as when a relay contact is closed, the
inductance in the hook up wire and in the power supply output will cause a
spike to appear at the load. The spike is a function of the rate of change of the
load current. When very rapid changes in load are expected, a capacitor with
a low series resistance, in parallel with the power supply, and close to the load
is the best way to minimize these voltage spikes.

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Chapter 7 Tutorial
Extending the Voltage and Current Range

Extending the Voltage and Current Range
The power supply may be able to provide voltages and currents greater than
its rated maximum outputs if the power-line voltage is at or above its nominal
value. Operation can be extended up to 3% over the rated output without
damage to the power supply, but performance can not be guaranteed to meet
specifications in this region. If the power-line voltage is maintained in the upper
end of the input voltage range, the power supply will probably operate within
its specifications. The power supply is more likely to stay within specifications
if only one of the voltage or current outputs is exceeded.
Series Connections

Series operation of two or more power supplies can be accomplished up to the
output isolation rating of any one supply to obtain a higher voltage than that
available from a single supply. Series connected power supplies can be
operated with one load across both power supplies or with a separate load for
each power supply. The power supply has a reverse polarity diode connected
across the output terminals so that if operated in series with other power
supplies, damage will not occur if the load is short-circuited or if one power
supply is turned on separately from its series partners.
When series connection is used, the output voltage is the sum of the voltages
of the individual power supplies. The current is the current of any one power
supply. Each of the individual power supplies must be adjusted in order to
obtain the total output voltage.
Parallel Connections

Two or more power supplies being capable of CV/CC automatic cross over
operation can be connected in parallel to obtain a total output current greater
than that available from one power supply. The total output current is the sum
of the output currents of the individual power supplies. The output of each
power supply can be set separately. The output voltage controls of one power
supply should be set to the desired output voltage; the other power supply
should be set for a slightly higher output voltage. The supply with the higher
output voltage setting will deliver its constant current output, and drop its
output voltage until it equals the output of the other supply, and the other
supply will remain in constant voltage operation and only deliver that fraction
of its rated output current which is necessary to fulfill the total load demand.

143

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Chapter 7 Tutorial
Remote Programming

Remote Programming
During remote programming a constant-voltage regulated power supply is
called upon to change its output voltage rapidly. The most important factor
limiting the speed of output voltage change is the output capacitor and load
resistor.

Figure 7-7. Speed of Response - Programming Up (Full Load)

The equivalent circuit and the nature of the output voltage waveform when the
supply is being programmed upward are shown in Figure 7-8. When the new
output is programmed, the power supply regulator circuit senses that the
output is less than desired and turns on the series regulator to its maximum
value IL, the current limit or constant current setting.
This constant current IL charges the output capacitor CO and load resistor RL
parallel. The output therefore rises exponentially with a time constant RLCL
towards voltage level ILRL, a value higher than the new output voltage being
programmed.
When this exponential rise reaches the newly programmed voltage level, the
constant voltage amplifier resumes its normal regulating action and holds the
output constant. Thus, the rise time can be determined approximately using
the formula shown in Figure 7-8.

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Chapter 7 Tutorial
Remote Programming

If no load resistor is attached to the power supply output terminal, then the
output voltage will rise linearly at a rate of CO/IL when programmed upward,
and TR = CO(E2 -E1)/IL, the shortest possible up-programming time.

Figure 7-8. Speed of Response - Programming Down

Figure 7-8 shows that when the power supply is programmed down, the
regulator senses that the output voltage is higher than desired and turns off
the series transistors entirely. Since the control circuit can in no way cause the
series regulator transistors to conduct backwards, the output capacitor can
only be discharged through the load resistor and internal current source (IS).
The output voltage decays linearly with slope of IS/CO with no load and stops
falling when it reaches the new output voltage which has been demanded. If
full load is connected, the output voltage will fall exponentially faster.
Since up-programming speed is aided by the conduction of the series regulating
transistor, while down programming normally has no active element aiding in
the discharge of the output capacitor, laboratory power supplies normally
program upward more rapidly than downward.

7

145

Chapter 7 Tutorial
Remote Programming

146

8

Specifications

Specifications

The performance specifications are listed in the following pages.
Specifications are warranted in the temperature range of 0 to 40°C with a
resistive load. Supplemental characteristics, which are not warranted but
are descriptions of performance determined either by design or testing. The
Service Information contains procedures for verifying the performance
specifications.

148

Chapter 8 Specifications
Performance Specifications

Performance Specifications
Table 8-1 Performance Specifications
Parameter
Output Ratings
(@ 0 °C - 40 °C)

Programming Accuracy[1]
12 months (@ 25 °C ± 5 °C),
±(% of output + offset)
Readback Accuracy[1]
12 months (over GPIB and
RS-232 with respect to actual
output (@ 25 °C ± 5 °C), ±(% of
output + offset)
Meter Accuracy[1] [2]
12 months (overfront panel with
respect to actual output (@ 25 °C
± 5 °C), ±(% of output + offset)
Ripple and Noise
(with outputs ungrounded, or
with either output terminal
grounded, 20 Hz to 20 MHz)

Load Regulation,
±(% of output + offset)
Line Regulation,
±(% of output + offset)
Programming Resolution

Low
Range
High
Range
Voltage
Current

E3640A
0 to +8 V/
0 to 3 A
0 to +20 V/
0 to 1.5 A

E3641A
0 to +35 V/
0 to 0.8 A
0 to +60 V/
0 to 0.5 A

E3642A
E3643A
0 to +8 V/
0 to +35 V/
0 to 5 A
0 to 1.4 A
0 to +20 V/ 0 to +60 V/
0 to 2.5 A
0 to 0.8 A
<0.05% + 10 mV
<0.2% + 10 mA

Voltage
Current

<0.05% + 5 mV
<0.15% + 5 mA

Voltage
Current

< (0.05% + 2 counts)
<0.15% + 5 mA

E3644A
0 to +8 V/
0 to 8 A
0 to +20 V/
0 to 4 A

E3645A
0 to +35 V/
0 to 2.2 A
0 to +60 V/
0 to 1.3 A

Normal <0.5 mVrms <1 mVrms <0.5 mV rms <1 mVrms <0.5mVrms <1 mVrms
mode
and
and
and
and
and
and
voltage 5 mVp-p
8 mVp-p
5 mVp-p
8 mVp-p 5 mVp-p
8 mVp-p
Normal
<4 mA rms
mode
current
Common
<1.5 uA rms
mode
current
Voltage
<0.01% + 3 mV
Current
<0.01% + 250 uA
Voltage
<0.01% + 3 mV
Current
<0.01% + 250 uA
Voltage
<5 mV
Current
<1 mA

[1]Accuracy specifications are after an 1-hour warm-up with no load and

calibration at 25 °C.

[2]Meter accuracy specification is at minimum 10 mV decimal limited by front

panel resolution.

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Chapter 8 Specifications
Performance Specifications

Parameter
Readback Resolution
Front Panel Resolution

E3640A

E3641A

Voltage
Current
Voltage
Current

E3642A

E3643A
<2 mV
<1 mA
10 mV
1 mA

E3644A

E3645A

Transient Response Time

Less than 50 μsec for output to recover to within 15 mV following a change in
output current from full load to half load or vice versa
Settling Time

Less than 90 msec for the output voltage to change from 1% to 99% or vice versa
following the receipt of VOLTage or APPLy command via direct GPIB or
RS-232 interface.
OVP Accuracy, ±(% of output + offset)

<0.5% + 0.5 V

Activation time: Average time for output to start to drop after OVP condition

occurs.
<1.5 msec when the trip voltage is equal or greater than 3 V
<10 msec when the trip voltage is less than 3 V

150

Chapter 8 Specifications
Supplemental Characteristics

Supplemental Characteristics
Table 8-2. Supplemental Characteristics
Parameter
Output
Low
Programming Range
Range
High
(maximum
Range
programmable
OVP
values)

E3640A
0 to +8.24 V/
0 to 3.09 A
0 to +20.6 V/
0 to 1.545 A
1 V to 22 V

E3641A
0 to +36.05 V/
0 to 0.824 A
0 to +61.8V/
0 to 0.515 A
1 V to 66 V

E3642A
0 to +8.24 V/
0 to 5.15 A
0 to +20.6V/
0 to 2.575 A
1 V to 22 V

E3643A
0 to +36.05 V/
0 to 1.442 A
0 to +61.8V/
0 to 0.824 A
1 V to 66 V

E3644A
0 to +8.24 V/
0 to 8.24 A
0 to +20.6 V/
0 to 4.12 A
1 V to 22 V

E3645A
0 to +36.05 V/
0 to 2.266 A
0 to +61.8V/
0 to 1.339 A
1 V to 66 V

Remote Sensing Capability

Voltage drop
Up to 1 V per each lead
Load regulation Add 5 mV to spec for each 1-volt change in the + output
lead due to load current changes.
Load voltage
Subtract voltage drop in load leads from specified output
voltage rating.
Temperature Coefficient, ±(% of output + offset)

Maximum change in output/readback per °C after a 30-minute warm-up
Voltage
<0.01% + 3 mV
Current
<0.02% + 3 mA
Stability, ±(% of output + offset)

Following 30 minutes warm-up, change in output over 8 hours under constant
load, line, and ambient temperature.
Voltage
<0.02% + 2 mV
Current
<0.1% + 1 mA
Output Voltage Overshoot

During turn-on or turn-off of ac power, output plus overshoot will not exceed
1 V if the output control is set to less than 1 V. If the output control is set to
1 V or higher, there is no overshoot.

151

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Chapter 8 Specifications
Supplemental Characteristics

Programming Language

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments)
State Storage Memory

Five (5) user-configurable stored states
Recommended Calibration Interval

1 year
Output Terminal Isolation (maximum, from chassis ground)

±60 Vdc when connecting shorting conductors without insulation between the
(+) output and the (+) sense terminals and between the (-) output and the (-)
sense terminals.
±240 Vdc when connecting insulated shorting conductors between the (+)
output and the (+) sense terminals and between the (-) output and the (-) sense
terminals.
AC Input Ratings (selectable via two switches on PC board)

std
opt 0E3
opt 0E9

115 Vac ± 10%, 47 to 63 Hz
230 Vac ± 10%, 47 to 63 Hz
100 Vac ± 10%, 47 to 63 Hz

Maximum Input Power
E3640A
105 VA

E3641A
105 VA

E3642A
205 VA

Cooling

Fan cooled
Operating Temperature

0 to 40 °C for full rated output.

152

E3643A
175 VA

E3644A
300 VA

E3645A
270 VA

Chapter 8 Specifications
Supplemental Characteristics

Storage Temperature

-20 to 70 °C for storage environment.
Environmental Conditions

Designed for indoor use in an installation category II, pollution degree 2
environment. Designed to operate at a maximum relative humidity of 95%
and at altitudes of up to 2000 meters.
Weight
E3640A

E3641A

E3642A

E3643A

E3644A

E3645A

Net

5.3 Kg

5.2 Kg

6.3 Kg

6.2 Kg

6.6 Kg

6.7 Kg

Shipping

7.2 Kg

7.1 Kg

8.2 Kg

8.1 Kg

8.5 Kg

8.6 Kg

Dimensions*

212.6 mmW x 88.5 mmH x 348.3 mmD
*See below and the next page for more detailed information.

Figure 8-1. Dimensions of Agilent E3640A/41A/42A/43A/44A/45A Power Supply

153

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Chapter 8 Specifications
Supplemental Characteristics

Figure 8-2. Dimensions for Rack mounting

154

Appendix

Service Information

Service Information

This chapter contains procedures to verify that the power supply is operating
normally and is within published specifications (See page 147). The power
supply must pass the complete self-test before calibration or any of the
verification or performance tests can be performed. If the supply fails any of
the tests or if abnormal test results are obtained, refer to the troubleshooting
hints in this document. This chapter has three main sections for:
• Returning a failed power supply to Agilent Technologies for service
or repair
• Operating Checklist‚ on page 157
• Types of Service Available‚ on page 158
• Repacking for Shipment‚ on page 159
• Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions‚ on page 160
• Surface Mount Repair‚ on page 160
• To Replace the Power-Line Fuse‚ on page 160
• Troubleshooting Hints‚ on page 161
• Self-Test Procedures‚ starting on page 162
• General Disassembly‚ on page 164
• Verification & performance test procedures and calibration
procedure
• Recommended Test Equipment‚ on page 165
• Test Considerations‚ on page 166
• Operation Verification and Performance Tests‚ on page 166
• Measurement Techniques‚ starting on page 167
• Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications‚ starting on page 169
• Constant Current (CC) Verifications‚ starting on page 174
• Common Mode Current Noise‚ on page 178
• Performance Test Record for Your Power Supply‚ starting on page 179
• Calibration Reference‚ on page 181
• General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure‚ starting on page 182
• Calibration Record for Your Power Supply‚ starting on page 187
• Calibration Error Messages‚ on page 188
• Schematics
156

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Operating Checklist

Operating Checklist
Before returning your power supply to Agilent Technologies for service or
repair check the following items:
Is the Power Supply Inoperative?

Verify that the ac power cord is connected to the power supply.
Verify that the front-panel power switch has been pushed.
Verify that the power-line fuse is installed and not open (See page 21):
Verify the power-line voltage setting.
See “Si l’alimentation ne se met pas sous tension” on page 20.

Does the Power Supply Fail Self-Test?

Verify that the correct power-line voltage is selected.
See “If the Power Supply Does Not Turn On” on page 20.

Remove all load connections to the power supply.

Ensure that all terminal connections are removed while the self-test is
performed.

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Appendix Service Information
Types of Service Available

Types of Service Available
If your power supply fails within one year of original purchase, Agilent
Technologies will repair or replace it free of charge. If your unit fails after your
one year warranty expires, Agilent Technologies will repair or replace it as a
very competitive price. Agilent will make the decision locally whether to repair
or replace your unit.
Standard Repair Service (worldwide)

Contact your nearest Agilent Service Center. They will arrange to have your
power supply repaired or replaced.
Express Exchange (U.S.A. only)

You can receive a replacement power supply via overnight shipment for low
downtime.
1 Call 1-800-258-5165 and ask for ‘‘Express Exchange.’’
• You will be asked for your shipping address and a credit card number to
guarantee return of your failed power supply.
• If you do not return your failed power supply within 45 days, your credit
card will be billed for a new power supply.
• If you choose not to supply a credit card number, you will be asked to send
your failed unit to a designated Agilent Service Center. After the failed unit
is received, Agilent will send your replacement unit.
2 Agilent will immediately send a replacement power supply to you via
overnight shipment.
• The replacement unit will have a different serial number than your failed
unit.
• If you can not accept a new serial number for the replacement unit, use the
Standard Repair Service option described above.
• If your failed unit was ‘‘in-warranty,’’ your replacement unit continues the
original one year warranty period. You will not be billed for the replacement
unit as long as the failed unit is received by Agilent.
• If your one year warranty has expired, Agilent will bill you for the power
supply exchange price - less than a new unit price. Agilent warrants
exchange units against defects for 90 days.

158

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Repacking for Shipment

Repacking for Shipment
For the Express Exchange Service described on the previous page, return your
failed power supply to the designated Agilent Service Center using the shipping
carton of the exchange unit. A shipping label will be supplied. Agilent will
notify you when your failed unit has been received.
If the instrument is to be shipped to Agilent for service or repair, be sure to:
• Attach a tag to the power supply identifying the owner and indicating the
required service or repair. Include the instrument model number and full
serial number.
• Place the power supply in its original container with appropriate packaging
material.
• Secure the container with strong tape or metal bands.
If the original shipping container is not available, place your unit in a container
which will ensure at least 4 inches of compressible packaging material around
all sides for the power supply. Use static-free packaging materials to avoid
additional damage to your unit.

Agilent Technologies recommends that you always insure shipments.

159

Appendix Service Information
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions
Almost all electrical components can be damaged by electrostatic discharge
(ESD) during handling. Component damage can occur at electrostatic
discharge voltages as low as 50 volts.
The following guidelines will help prevent ESD damage when serving the
power supply or any electronic device.
• Disassemble instruments only in a static-free work area.
• Use a conductive work area to dissipate static charge.
• Use a conductive wrist strap to dissipate static charge accumulation.
• Minimize handling.
• Keep replacement parts in original static-free packaging.
• Remove all plastic, styrofoam, vinyl, paper, and other static-generating
materials from the immediate work area.
• Use only anti-static solder suckers.

Surface Mount Repair
Surface mount components should only be removed using soldering irons or
disordering stations expressly designed for surface mount components.
Use of conventional solder removal equipment will almost always result in
permanent damage to the printed circuit board and will void your Agilent
Technologies factory warranty.

To Replace the Power-Line Fuse
The power-line fuse is located within the power supply’s fuse-holder assembly
on the rear panel (see page 22). See page 20 to check the rating of power-line
fuse and replace with the correct one for your power supply.

160

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Troubleshooting Hints

Troubleshooting Hints
This section provides a brief check list of common failures. Before
troubleshooting or repairing the power supply, make sure that the failure is in
the power supply rather than any external connections. Also make sure that
the power supply is accurately calibrated. The power supply’s circuits allow
troubleshooting and repair with basic equipment such as a 6½-digital
multimeter.
Unit Reports Errors 740 to 750

These errors may be produced if you accidentally turn off power of the unit
during a calibration or while changing a non-volatile state of the instrument.
Recalibration or resetting the state should clear the error. If the error persists,
a hardware failure may have occurred.
Unit Fails Self-Test

Verify that the correct power-line voltage setting is selected. Also, ensure that
all terminal connections are removed while the self-test is performed. Failure
of the DAC U131 on the PC board will cause many self-test failures.
Bias Supplies Problems

Check that the input to the voltage regulators of the bias supplies is at least
1 V greater than their output. Circuit failures can cause heavy loads of the bias
supplies which may pull down the regulator output voltages. Check the
voltages of bias supplies as tabulated below.
Table A-1 Bias Supplies Voltages
Bias Supply

Minimum

Maximum

Check At

+5V Floating

+4.75 V

+5.25 V

U110 pin 2

-5.1V Floating

-4.75 V

-5.25 V

Anode of CR114

+15V Floating

+14.25 V

+15.75 V

Anode of CR104

-15V Floating

-14.25 V

-15.75 V

Cathode of CR105

Some circuits produce their own local bias supplies from the main bias
supplies. Be sure to check that these local bias supplies are active. In particular,
the ADC (analog-to-digital converter), ac input, and front panel sections have
local bias supplies. Always check that the power supplies are free of ac
oscillations using an oscilloscope. Failure of bias supplies will cause many selftest failures.
161

Appendix Service Information
Self-Test Procedures

Self-Test Procedures
Power-On Self-Test

Each time the power supply is powered on, a set of self-tests are performed.
These tests check that the minimum set of logic and measurement hardware
are functioning properly. Failures during the power-on self-test utilize error
codes 601 through 604 and 624 through 632.
Complete Self-Test

Hold any front panel key except the ‘‘View’’ key for more than 5 seconds while
turning on the power to perform a complete self-test. The power supply beeps
when the test starts. The tests are performed in the order shown below.

601

Front Panel Does not respond The main controller U121 attempts to
establish serial communications with the front panel controller U1 on the front
panel board. During this test, the U1 turns on all display segments.
Communication must function in both directions for this test to pass. If this
error is detected during power-on self-test, the power supply will beep twice.
This error is only readable from the remote interface.

602

RAM read/write failed This test writes and reads a 55h and AAh checker
board pattern to each address of ram U125. Any incorrect readback will cause
a test failure. This error is only readable from the remote interface.

603

A/D sync stuck The main controller issues an A/D sync pulse to U121 and
U130 to latch the value in the ADC slope counters. A failure is detected when
a sync interrupt is not recognized and subsequent time-out occurs.

604

A/D slope convergence failed The input amplifier is configured to the
measure zero (MZ) state in the 10 V range. This test checks whether the ADC
integrator produces nominally the same number of positive and negative slope
decisions (±10%) during a 20 ms interval.

605

Cannot calibrate rundown gain This test checks the nominal gain between
integrating ADC and the U121 on-chip ADC. This error is reported if the
procedure can not run to completion due to a hardware failure.

162

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Self-Test Procedures

606

Rundown gain out of range This test checks the nominal gain between the
integrating ADC and the U121 on-chip ADC. The nominal gain is checked to
±10% tolerance.

607

Rundown too noisy This test checks the gain repeatability between the
integrating ADC and the U121 on-chip ADC. The gain test (606) is performed
eight times. Gain noise must be less that ±64 lsb’s of the U121 on-chip ADC.

608

Serial configuration readback failed This test re-sends the last 3 byte serial
configuration data to all the serial path (SERDAT, SERBCK, SERCLK). The
data is then clocked back into U130 and compared against the original 3 bytes
sent. A failure occurs if the data do not match. This tests checks the serial data
path through U138.

624

Unable to sense line frequency This test checks that the LSENCE logic
input U121 is toggling. If no logic input detected, the power supply will assume
a 50 Hz line operation for all future measurements.

625

I/O processor did not respond This test checks that communications can
be established between U121 and U103 through the optically isolated (U108
and U109) serial data link. Failure to establish communication in either
direction will generate an error. If this condition is detected at power-on
self-test, the power supply will beep and the error annunciator will be on.

626

I/O processor failed self-test This test causes the earth referenced
processor U103 to execute an internal, ram test. Failure will generate an error.

630

Fan test failed This test checks if the fan current is flowing. If the current
is not detected at power-on self-test, the power supply will beep and the error
annunciator will be on. Fan test fail could likely induce overtemperature
condition in the power supply.

631

System DAC test failed This test checks if the DAC hardware is functional.
The main controller U121 sends a reference voltage data to DAC and converts
the DAC output to digital data to see if the digital data is within a valid range.

632

Hardware test failed This test checks the status of voltage and current error
amplifiers for the power circuit. If both amplifiers are not operational, the
power supply will beep and the error annunciator will be on.

163

Appendix Service Information
General Disassembly

General Disassembly

164

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information

Recommended Test Equipment

Recommended Test Equipment
The test equipment recommended for the performance verification and
adjustment procedures is listed below. If the exact instrument is not available,
use the accuracy requirements shown to select substitute calibration
standards. If you use equipment other than that recommended in Table A-2,
you must recalculate the measurement uncertainties for the actual equipment
used.
Table A-2 Recommended Test Equipment
Instrument

Requirements

Recommended Model

Use

GPIB controller

Full GPIB or RS-232
capabilities

Agilent 82341C interface card Programming and readback
or equivalent
accuracy

Oscilloscope

100 MHz with 20 MHz
bandwidth

Agilent 54602B

RMS Voltmeter

20 Hz to 20 MHz

Cable (BNC to BNC)

50 ohm, 9 inch (23 Cm)

Agilent 10502A or 10503A if Measure rms ripple & noise
the 10502A is not available
(CV PARD, CC PARD)

BNC (Female)
Bulkhead Receptacle

Isolated Ground.
Nominal impedance: 50 Ohm

Pomona Model 5148

Measure rms ripple & noise
(CV PARD, CC PARD)

Split Ferrites

For use with round cable

Steward Co. 28A2029-0A0

Noise coupling reduction

Digital Voltmeter

Resolution: 0.1 mV
Accuracy: 0.01%

Agilent 34401A

Measure dc voltages

Electronic Load

Voltage Range: 240 Vdc
Current Range: 10 Adc
Open and Short Switches
Transient On/Off

Agilent 60503B

Measure load and line
regulations and transient
response time.

Resistive Loads (RL)

(2.7 Ω, 150 W/13.5 Ω, 150 W)1 (25 Ω, 300 W/75 Ω, 300 W)5 Measure ripple and noise
(43.8 Ω, 300 W/120 Ω, 300 W)2 (15.9Ω, 300W/46.2Ω, 300W)6
(1.6 Ω, 300 W/8.0 Ω, 300 W)3
(1.0 Ω, 300 W/5.0 Ω, 300 W)4

Display transient response
and ripple & noise waveform
Measure rms ripple & noise

Current monitoring
(0.01 Ω, 0.1%)*
Resistor (Shunt) - RM1

ISOTEK Co. Model: A-H or
equivalent

Constant current test setup

Current monitoring
(0.2 Ω/250 W , 0.1%)*
Resistor (Shunt) - RM2

ISOTEK Co. Model: RUG-Z
or equivalent

Measure current rms ripple &
noise

*

To find the accurate resistance, it is recommended to use a current monitoring resistor after calibration.
model, 2E3641A model, 3E3642A model, 4E3644A, 5E3643A, 6E3645A model.

1E3640A

165

Appendix Service Information
Test Considerations

Test Considerations
To ensure proper power supply operation, verify that you have selected the
correct power-line voltage prior to attempting any test procedure in this
chapter. See page 21 for line voltage conversion.
Ensure that all connections of terminals (both front panel and rear panel) are
removed while the power supply internal self-test is being performed.
For optimum performance verification, all test procedures should comply with
the following recommendations:
• Assure that the calibration ambient temperature is stable and between 20°C
and 30°C.
• Assure ambient relative humidity is less than 80%.
• Allow a 1-hour warm-up period before verification or calibration.
• Use short cables to connect test set-ups.
Caution

The tests should be performed by qualified personnel. During performance
verification tests, hazardous voltages may be present at the outputs of the power
supply.

Operation Verification and Performance Tests
Operation Verification Tests

To assure that the power supply is operating properly, without testing all
specified parameters, perform the following test procedures:
• Perform the power-on self-test and check out procedures on page 18.
(See “Autotest” on page 61 for more information)
• Perform the Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy test, and the
Current Programming and Readback Accuracy tests in this document.
Performance Tests

The following sections provide test procedures for verifying the supply’s
compliance with the specifications listed in Table 8-1, “Performance
Specifications,” on page 149. All of the performance test specifications and
calculated measurement uncertainties are entered in the appropriate
Performance Test Record Card for your specific model. You can record the
actual measured values in the column provided in this card.
If you use equipment other than that recommended in Table A-1, you must
recalculate the measurement uncertainties for the actual equipment used.
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Appendix Service Information
Measurement Techniques

Measurement Techniques
Setup for Most Tests

Most tests are performed at the front terminals as shown in Figure A-1. Measure
the dc voltage directly at the (+) and (-) terminals on the front panel.

DVM,
Scope, or
RMS

Figure A-1 Performance Verification Test Setup

Current-Monitoring Resistor

To eliminate output current measurement error caused by the voltage drops
in the leads and connections, connect the current monitoring resistor between
the (-) output terminal and the load as a four-terminal device. Connect the
current-monitoring leads inside the load-lead connections directly at the
monitoring points on the resistor element (see RM in Figure A-1).

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Measurement Techniques

General Measurement Techniques

To achieve best results when measuring load regulation, peak to peak voltage,
and transient response time of the power supply, measuring devices must be
connected through the hole in the neck of the binding post at (A) while the
load resistor is plugged into the front of the output terminals at (B). A
measurement made across the load includes the impedance of the leads to the
load. The impedance of the load leads can easily be several orders of the
magnitude greater than the power supply impedance and thus invalidate the
measurement. To avoid mutual coupling effects, each measuring device must
be connected directly to the output terminals by separate pairs of leads.

[Front Panel (Side View)]

TO LOAD OR
CURRENT
RESISTOR

TO MONITORING
DEVICE

(Rear Panel)

Figure A-2 Front/Rear Panel Terminal Connections

Electronic Load

Many of the test procedures require the use of a variable load resistor capable
of dissipating the required power. Using a variable load resistor requires that
switches should be used to connect, disconnect, and short the load resistor.
An electronic load, if available, can be used in place of a variable load resistor
and switches. The electronic load is considerably easier to use than load
resistors. It eliminates the need for connecting resistors or rheostats in parallel
to handle power, it is much more stable than carbon-pile load, and it makes
easy work of switching between load conditions as is required for the load
regulation and load response tests. Substitution of the electronic load requires
minor changes to the test procedures in this chapter.
Programming

Most performance tests can be performed from the front panel. However, an
GPIB or RS-232 controller is required to perform the voltage and current
programming accuracy and readback accuracy tests.
The test procedures are written assuming that you know how to program the
power supply either from the front panel or from an GPIB or RS-232 controller.
See "Programmation des sorties et du mode de fonctionnement" in chapter 4
for complete instructions on remote programming.
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Appendix Service Information
Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications

Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications
Constant Voltage Test Setup

If more than one meter or if a meter and an oscilloscope are used, connect
each to the (+) and (-) terminals by a separate pair of leads to avoid mutual
coupling effects. Use coaxial cable or shielded 2-wire cable to avoid noise
pick-up on the test leads.
Table A-3 Verification Programming Values
Model

Low voltage
range

High voltage
range

Model

Low voltage
range

High voltage
range

E3640A

8V/3A

20V/1.5A

E3643A

35V/1.4A

60V/0.8A

E3641A

35V/0.8A

60V/0.5A

E3644A

8V/8A

20V/4A

E3642A

8V/5A

20V/2.5A

E3645A

35V/2.2A

60V/1.3A

Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy

This test verifies that the voltage programming and GPIB or RS-232 readback
functions are within specifications. Note that the readback values over the
remote interface should be identical to those displayed on the front panel.

You should program the power supply over the remote interface for this test
to avoid round off errors.

1 Turn off the power supply and connect a digital voltmeter between the (+) and
(-) terminals of the output to be tested as shown in Figure A-1.
2 Turn on the power supply. Select the high voltage range (20V/1.5A)† and enable
the output by sending the commands:
VOLT:RANG P20V

(E3640A model)

OUTP ON

3 Program the output voltage to 0 volt and current to full scale rated value
(1.5 A)† by sending the commands:
VOLT 0

(E3640A model)
4 Record the output voltage reading on the digital voltmeter (DVM). The reading
should be within the limit of (0 V ± 10 mV). Also, note that the CV, Adrs, Limit,
and Rmt annunciators are on.
CURR 1.5

†

For E3640A model, and see

Table A-3 for other models
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Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications

5 Readback the output voltage over the remote interface by sending the
command:
MEAS:VOLT?

6 Record the value displayed on the controller. This value should be within the
limit of (DVM ±5 mV).
7 Program the output voltage to full scale rated value (20 V)† by sending the
command:

(E3640A model)
8 Record the output voltage reading on the digital voltmeter (DVM). The reading
should be within the limit of (20 V ± 20 mV)* or (60 V ± 40mV)**.
9 Readback the output voltage over the remote interface by sending the
command:
VOLT 20.0

MEAS:VOLT?

10 Record the value displayed on the controller. This value should be within the
limit of (DVM ± 15 mV)* or (DVM ± 35 mV)**.
CV Load Effect (Load Regulation)

1
2
3
4

This test measures the immediate change in the output voltage resulting from
a change in the output current from full to no load.
Turn off the power supply and connect a digital voltmeter between the (+) and
(-) terminals of the output as shown in Figure A-1.
Turn on the power supply. Select the high voltage range (20V/1.5A)†, enable
the output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the
limit mode, program the output current to the maximum programmable value
and the voltage to the full rated value (20.0 V)†.
Operate the electronic load in constant current mode and set its current to the
(1.5 A)†. Check that the front panel CV annunciator remains lit. If not lit, adjust
the load so that the output current drops slightly until the CV annunciator
lights. Record the output voltage reading on the digital voltmeter.
Operate the electronic load in open mode (input off). Record the output voltage
reading on the digital voltmeter immediately. The difference between the
digital voltmeter readings in steps (3) and (4) is the CV load regulation. The
difference of the readings during the immediate change should be within the
limit of (5 mV)* or (9 mV)**.

*For E3640A/42A/44A models. **For E3641A/43A/45A models.
†
For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models

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Appendix Service Information
Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications

CV Source effect (Line Regulation)

1
2
3
4
5
6

This test measures the immediate change in output voltage that results from a
change in ac line voltage from the minimum value (10% below the nominal
input voltage) to maximum value (10% above the nominal input voltage).
Turn off the power supply and connect a digital voltmeter between the (+) and
(-) terminals of the output to be tested as shown in Figure A-1.
Connect the ac power line through a variable voltage transformer.
Turn on the power supply. Select the high voltage range (20V/1.5A)†, enable
the output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the
limit mode, program the current to the maximum programmable value and the
voltage to full rated value (20.0 V)†.
Operate the electronic load in constant current mode and set its current to
(1.5 A)†. Check that the CV annunciator remains lit. If not lit, adjust the load
so that the output current drops slightly until the CV annunciator lights.
Adjust the transformer to low line voltage limit (104 Vac for nominal 115 Vac,
90 Vac for nominal 100 Vac, or 207 Vac for nominal 230 Vac). Record the output
reading on the digital voltmeter.
Adjust the transformer to high line voltage (127 Vac for nominal 115 Vac, 110
Vac for nominal 100 Vac, or 253 Vac for nominal 230 Vac). Record the voltage
reading on the digital voltmeter immediately. The difference between the
digital voltmeter readings in steps (5) and (6) is the CV line regulation. The
difference of the readings during the immediate change should be within the
limit of (5 mV)* or (9 mV)**.
CV PARD (Ripple and Noise)

Periodic and random deviations (PARD) in the output (ripple and noise)
combine to produce a residual ac voltage superimposed on the dc output
voltage. CV PARD is specified as the rms or peak-to-peak output voltage in the
frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 MHz.
• VRMS measurement techniques:
When measuring Vrms ripple and noise, the monitoring device should be
plugged into the front of the terminals at (A) in Figure A-2. Use the vertical
mini-probe socket and the "1:1 voltage probe" to connect the monitor device
to the power supply. To reduce the measurement error caused by common
mode noise, it is recommended to twist the connection wire between the miniprobe and the output terminals. The load resistor is connected to the terminal
at (B) in Figure A-2. Twisted leads between the load resistor and the power
supply helps reduce noise pickup for these measurements.
*For E3640A/42A/44A models. **For E3641A/43A/45A models.
†
For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models

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Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications

RMS voltmeter

BNC
Receptacle

RMS voltmeter

Input

BNC Cable

Split Ferrites*
Input

Load Resistor

Load Resistor

(Front Panel Connections)

(Rear Panel Connections)

1 Turn off the power supply and connect the output to be tested as shown in
Figure A-1 to an oscilloscope (ac coupled) between (+) and (-) terminals. Set
the oscilloscope to AC mode and bandwidth limit to 20 MHz. Connect a
resistive load (13.5 Ω)‡ to the terminal at (B) as shown above.
2 Turn on the power supply. Select the high voltage range (20V/1.5A)†, enable
the output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the
limit mode, program the current to the full scale rated value (1.5 A)† and the
voltage to the full rated value (20.0 V)†.
3 Check that the front panel CV annunciator remains lit. If not lit, adjust the load
down slightly.
4 Note that the waveform on the oscilloscope does not exceed the peak-to-peak
limit of (5 mV)* or (8 mV)**.
5 Disc,onnect the oscilloscope and connect the ac rms voltmeter in its place
according to the VRMS measurement techniques above and as shown above.
The rms voltage reading does not exceed the rms limit of 0.5 mV* or 1 mV**.
Note:

For better measurement result, it is recommended to make the connection between
the BNC receptacle and the output terminals shorter as much as possible, and to use
the recommended split ferrites with the cable (BNC to BNC) as shown above.
*For E3640A/42A/44A models. **For E3641A/43A/45A models.
†
For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models.
‡For E3640A model, and see Table A-2 for other models.

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Appendix Service Information
Constant Voltage (CV) Verifications

Load Transient Response Time

1
2
3
4
5

This test measures the time for the output voltage to recover to within 15 mV
of nominal output voltage following a load change from full load to half load,
or half load to full load.
Turn off the power supply and connect the output to be tested as shown in
Figure A-1 with an oscilloscope. Operate the electronic load in constant
current mode.
Turn on the power supply. Select the high voltage range (20V/1.5A)†, enable
the output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the
limit mode, program the current to the full scale rated value (1.5 A)† and the
voltage to the full scale rated value (20.0 V)†.
Set the electronic load to transient operation mode between one half of the
output’s full rated value and the output’s full rated value at a 1 kHz rate with
50% duty cycle.
Set the oscilloscope for ac coupling, internal sync, and lock on either the
positive or negative load transient.
Adjust the oscilloscope to display transients as shown in Figure A-4. Note that
the pulse width (t2 - t1) of the transients at 15 mV from the base line is no more
than 50 μsec for the output.

Figure A-4 Transient Response Time

†

For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models

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Constant Current (CC) Verifications

Constant Current (CC) Verifications
Constant Current Test Setup

Follow the general setup instructions in the General Measurement Techniques‚
on page 168, and the specific instructions will be given in the following
paragraphs.
Current Programming and Readback Accuracy

This test verifies that the current programming and GPIB or RS-232 readback
functions are within specifications. Note that the readback values over the
remote interface should be identical to those displayed on the front panel. The
accuracy of the current monitoring resistor must be 0.01% or better.

You should program the power supply over the remote interface for this test
to avoid round off errors.

1 Turn off the power supply and connect a 0.01 Ω current monitoring resistor
(RM1) across the output to be tested and a digital voltmeter across the current
monitoring resistor (RM1) as shown in Figure A-1.
2 Turn on the power supply. Select the low voltage range (8V/3A)† and enable
the output by sending the commands:
VOLT:RANG P8V

(E3640A model)

OUTP ON

3 Program the output voltage to full scale rated voltage (8.0 V)† and output
current to zero amps by sending the commands:
VOLT 8

(E3640A model)

CURR 0

4 Divide the voltage drop (DVM reading) across the current monitoring resistor
(RM) by its resistance to convert to amps and record this value (IO). This value
should be within the limit of (0 A ± 10 mA). Also, note that the CC, Adrs, Limit,
and Rmt annunciators are on.
5 Readback the output current over the remote interface by sending the
command:
MEAS:CURR?

†

For E3640A model, and see

174

Table A-3 for other models

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Constant Current (CC) Verifications

6 Record the value displayed on the controller. This value should be within the
limit of (IO ± 5 mA).
7 Program the output current to the full scale rated value (3 A)† by sending the
command:

(E3640A model)
8 Divide the voltage drop (DVM reading) across the current monitoring resistor
(RM) by its resistance to convert to amps and record this value (IO). This value
should be within the limit of:
CURR 3.0

E3640A

E3641A

3 A ± 16 mA 0.8 A ± 11.6 mA

E3642A

E3643A

E3644A

E3644A

5 A ± 20 mA

5 A ± 20 mA

8 A ± 26 mA

8 A ± 26 mA

9 Readback the output current over the remote interface by sending the
command:
MEAS:CURR?

10 Record the value displayed on the controller. This value should be within the
limit of:
E3640A
(IO ± 9.5 mA)

E3641A

E3642A

E3643A

(IO ± 6.2 mA) (IO ± 12.5 mA) (IO ± 7.1 mA)

E3644A

E3642A

(IO ± 17 mA)

(IO ± 8.3 mA)

CC Load Effect (Load Regulation)

This test measures the immediate change in output current resulting from a
change in the load from full rated output voltage to short circuit.
1 Turn off the power supply and connect the output to tested as shown in
Figure A-1 with the digital voltmeter connected across the 0.01 Ω current
monitoring resistor (RM1).
2 Turn on the power supply. Select the low voltage range (8V/3A)†, enable the
output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the limit
mode, program the output voltage to the maximum programmable value and
the output current to the full rated value (3 A)†.
3 Set the voltage of the electronic load to (8.0 V)† to operate it in constant voltage
mode since a voltage drop occurs on the load wires. Check that the CC
annunciator is on. If it is not, adjust the load so that the output voltage drops
slightly. Record the current reading by dividing the voltage reading on the
digital voltmeter by the resistance of the current monitoring resistor.

†

For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models

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Constant Current (CC) Verifications

4 Operate the electronic load in short (input short) mode. Record the current
reading immediately by dividing the voltage reading on the digital voltmeter
by the resistance of the current monitoring resistor. The difference between
the current readings in step (3) and (4) is the load regulation current. The
difference of the readings during the immediate should be within the limit of:
E3640A

E3641A

E3642A

E3643A

E3644A

E3645A

0.55 mA

0.33 mA

0.75 mA

0.39 mA

1.05 mA

0.47 mA

CC Source Effect (Line Regulation)

1
2
3
4
5
6

This test measures the immediate change in output current that results from
a change in ac line voltage from the minimum value (10% below the nominal
input voltage) to the maximum value (10% above nominal voltage).
Turn off the power supply and connect the output to be tested as shown in
Figure A-1 with the digital voltmeter connected across the current monitoring
resistor (RM1).
Connect the ac power line through a variable voltage transformer.
Turn on the power supply. Select the low voltage range (8V/3A)†, enable the
output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the limit
mode, program the voltage to the maximum programmable and the current to
the full scale rated value (3 A)†.
Operate the electronic load in constant voltage mode and set its voltage to
(8.0 V)†. Check that the CC annunciator remains lit. If not lit, adjust the load
so that the output voltage drops slightly until the CC annunciator lights.
Adjust the transformer to low line voltage limit (104 Vac for nominal 115 Vac,
90 Vac for nominal 100 Vac, or 207 Vac for nominal 230 Vac). Record the output
current reading by dividing the voltage reading on the digital voltmeter by the
resistance of the current monitoring resistor.
Adjust the transformer to 10% above the nominal line voltage (127 Vac for a
115 Vac nominal input, 110 Vac for a 100 Vac nominal input or 253 Vac for a
230 Vac nominal input). Record the current reading immediately by dividing
the voltage reading on the digital voltmeter by the resistance of the current
monitoring resistor. The difference between the current readings in step (5)
and (6) is the load regulation current. The difference of the readings during the
immediate change should be within the limit of:

E3640A

E3641A

E3642A

E3643A

E3644A

E3645A

0.55 mA

0.33 mA

0.75 mA

0.39 mA

1.05 mA

0.47 mA

†

For E3640A model, and see

176

Table A-3 for other models

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Constant Current (CC) Verifications

CC PARD (Ripple and Noise)

Periodic and random deviations (PARD) in the output (ripple and noise)
combine to produce a residual ac current, as well, as an ac voltage
superimposed on the dc output. CC PARD is specified as the rms output current
in a frequency range 20 Hz to 20 MHz with the power supply in constant current
operation.
RMS voltmeter

Input

RMS voltmeter

Current
Monitoring
Resistor
Split
Ferrites

Current
Monitoring
Resistor

Input

BNC Cable
BNC
Receptacle

(Front Panel Connections)

(Rear Panel Connections)

1 Turn off the power supply and connect the output to be tested as shown above
with the current monitoring resistor 0.2 Ω (RM2) across output terminals.
Connect a rms voltmeter across the current monitoring resistor as shown
above.
2 Turn on the power supply. Select the low voltage range (8V/3A)†, enable the
output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the limit
mode, program the current to full scale rated value (3 A)† and the voltage to
the full scale rated value (8.0 V)†.
3 Divide the reading on the rms voltmeter by the load resistance to obtain rms
current. The readings should be within the limit of 4 mA.
Note:

For better measurement result, it is recommended to make the connection between
the BNC receptacle and the output terminals shorter as much as possible, and to use
the recommended split ferrites with the cable (BNC to BNC) as shown above.
†

For E3640A model, and see Table A-3 for other models

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Appendix Service Information
Common Mode Current Noise

Common Mode Current Noise

1
2
3
4

The common mode current is that ac current component which exists between
the output or output lines and chassis ground. Common mode noise can be a
problem for very sensitive circuitry that is referenced to earth ground. When
a circuit is referenced to earth ground, a low level line-related ac current will
flow from the output terminals to earth ground. Any impedance to earth ground
will create a voltage drop equal to the output current flow multiplied by the
impedance.
Turn off the power supply and connect a 100 kΩ resistor (RS) and a 2200 pF
capacitor in parallel between the (-) terminal and chassis ground at the rear
output terminals.
Connect a digital voltmeter across RS.
Turn on the power supply. Select the low voltage range (8V/3A)†, enable the
output, and set the display to the limit mode. When the display is in the limit
mode, program the output to the full scale rated value (8.0 V and 3 A)†.
Record the voltage across RS and convert it to current by dividing by the
resistance (DVM reading/100 kΩ). Note that the current is less than 1.5 μA.

†

For E3640A model, and see

178

Table A-3 for other models

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Performance Test Record for Your Power Supply

Performance Test Record for Your Power Supply
CV Performance Test Record
Models

Upper Limit

Lower Limit

CV Programming Accuracy
@ 0 volts (DVM reading)

all

+0.0100 V

-0.0100 V

CV Readback Accuracy
@ 0 volts

all

DVM +0.0050 V

DVM -0.0050 V

CV Programming Accuracy
@ Full Scale (DVM reading)

E3640A/42A/44A

+20.0200 V

+19.9800 V

E3641A/43A/45A

+60.0400 V

+59.9600 V

CV Readback Accuracy
@ Full Scale

E3640A/42A/44A

DVM + 0.0150 V

DVM - 0.0150 V

E3641A/43A/45A

DVM + 0.0350 V

DVM - 0.0350 V

CV Load Effect (Load
Regulation)

E3640A/42A/44A

Maximum change: < 5 mV

E3641A/43A/45A

Maximum change: < 9 mV

CV Source Effect (Line
Regulation)

E3640A/42A/44A

Maximum change: < 5 mV

E3641A/43A/45A

Maximum change: < 9 mV

CV PARD (Normal mode)

E3640A/42A/44A

< 5 mVp-p / 0.5 mVrms

E3641A/43A/45A

< 8 mVp-p / 1 mVrms

all

< 50 μsec

Load Transient Response
Time

Actual Result

Specifications

Test Description

179

Appendix Service Information
Performance Test Record for Your Power Supply

CC Performance Test Record
Test Description

Models

Actual
Result

Specifications
Upper Limit

Lower Limit

CC Programming Accuracy
@ 0 amps (IO )

all

+0.0100 A

-0.0100 A

CC Readback Accuracy @ 0 amps

all

IO + 0.0050 A

IO - 0.0050 A

(E3640A)

3.01600 A

2.9840 A

(E3641A)

0.8116 A

0.7884 A

(E3642A)

5.02 A

4.98 A

(E3643A)

1.4128 A

1.3872 A

(E3644A)

8.026

7.974 A

CC Programming Accuracy
@ Full Scale (IO)

CC Readback Accuracy @ Full Scale

CC Load Effect (Load Regulation)

(E3645A)

2.2144

2.1856 A

(E3640A)

IO + 0.0095 A

IO - 0.0095 A

(E3641A)

IO + 0.0062 A

IO - 0.0062 A

(E3642A)

IO + 0.0125 A

IO - 0.0125 A

(E3643A)

IO + 0.0071 A

IO - 0.0071 A

(E3644A)

IO + 0.0170 A

IO - 0.0170 A

(E3645A)

IO + 0.0083 A

IO - 0.0083 A

(E3640A)

Maximum change: < (0.55 mA)

(E3641A)

Maximum change: < (0.33 mA)

(E3642A)

Maximum change: < (0.75 mA)

(E3643A)

Maximum change: < (0.39 mA)

(E3644A)

Maximum change: < (1.05 mA)

(E3645A)

Maximum change: < (0.47 mA)

(E3640A)

Maximum change: < (0.55 mA)

(E3641A)

Maximum change: < (0.33 mA)

(E3642A)

Maximum change: < (0.75 mA)

(E3643A)

Maximum change: < (0.39 mA)

(E3644A)

Maximum change: < (1.05 mA)

(E3645A)

Maximum change: < (0.47 mA)

CC PARD (Normal mode)

all

< 4 mA rms

CC PARD (Common mode)

all

< 1.5 μA rms

CC Source Effect (Line Regulation)

180

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Appendix Service Information
Calibration Reference

Calibration Reference
Before you calibrate the power supply, you must unsecure it by entering the
correct security code. See “Fonctions d’étalonnage”, starting on page 69, for
more detailed procedures to unsecure or secure the power supply.
Agilent Technologies Calibration Services

When your power supply is due for calibration, contact your local Agilent
Technologies Service Center for a low-cost calibration. The Agilent E3640A/
41A/42A/43A/44A and E3645A power supplies are supported on calibration
processes which allow Agilent Technologies to provide this service at
competitive prices.
Calibration Interval

Recommended calibration interval for this power supply is 1 year. This will
ensure that your power supply will remain within specification for the next
calibration interval. Agilent Technologies does not recommend extending
calibration intervals beyond 1 year for any application. This criteria for readjustment provides the best long-term stability.
To Unsecure the Power Supply Without the Security Code

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

To unsecure the power supply without the correct security code (when you
forget the security code), follow the steps below. See “Electrostatic Discharge
(ESD) Precautions” on page 160 before beginning this procedure.
Disconnect the power cord and all load connections from the power supply.
Remove the instrument cover. Refer to the disassembly drawing on page 164.
Connect the power cord and turn on the calibration mode by holding down the
Calibrate key as you turn on the power supply and hold down the key until you
hear a long beep. Be careful not to touch the power line connections.
Apply a short between the two exposed metal pads on JP107 (located near
U121). The JP107 is outlined with a circle on the component locator drawing
on page 190.
While maintaining the short, move to the security code and enter any unsecure
code in the calibration mode. The power supply is now unsecured.
Remove the short at JP107. (An error occurs if not removed.)
Turn off and reassemble the power supply.

Now you can enter a new security code. Be sure you take note of the new
security code.

181

Appendix Service Information
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure

General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure
Note

The power supply should be calibrated after 1-hour warm-up with no load connected.
And Perform the voltage calibration prior to the OVP calibration.

The front panel calibration procedures are described in this section.
• For voltage calibration, disconnect all loads from the power supply and
connect a DVM across the output terminals.
• For current calibration, also disconnect all loads from the power supply,
connect an appropriate current monitoring resistor 0.01 Ω across the output
terminals, and connect a DVM across the terminals of the monitoring
resistor.
• You can abort a calibration at any time by turning the power supply off from
the front panel, by issuing a remote interface device clear message, or by
pressing the front-panel ‘‘Local’’ key.
The following table shows calibration parameters and points which should be
used to calibrate the output voltage and current.
Table 3-2 Parameters for Calibration
Calibration
Parameter

Voltage/
Current

Calibration Point
mnemonic
V LO

VOLTAGE CAL

Voltage

V MI
V HI

OVP CAL

OVP

None
I LO

CURRENT CAL

Current

I MI
I HI

182

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure

Front Panel Voltage and Current Calibration
Note

Before attempting to calibrate the power supply, you must unsecure the power supply,
and disconnect all loads from the power supply and connect a DVM across the output
terminals. See “Fonctions d’étalonnage”, starting on page 69 to unsecure.

In the following procedure, the Agilent E3640A model is referenced to describe
the calibration procedure as an example, so a different calibration value for
each calibration point may be prompted to be adjusted for your specific model.
Power

View
Calibrate

1 Turn on the calibration mode.
CAL MODE

Turn on the calibration mode by holding down
(Calibrate) key as you
turn on the power supply and hold down the key until you hear a long beep.
Make sure that the power supply is in ‘‘CV’’ mode. If the power supply is not
in ‘‘CV’’ mode, an error occurs.
View

Calibrate

Voltage and OVP Calibration
View
Calibrate

2 Move down a level to the voltage calibration mode.
voltage cal

View
Calibrate

3 Select the low-end voltage calibration point.
V LO 0.5000

4 Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM by using the knob and
resolution selection keys.
V LO 0.4500

183

Appendix Service Information
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure

View
Calibrate

5 Save the changes and select the middle voltage calibration point.
V MI 10.000

If the entered number is within an acceptable range, an ‘‘ENTERED’’ message
appears for a second. If the entered number is not correct, an error message
will be displayed for a second and you will hear a beep, and then go back to
the low, middle, or high voltage calibration point again as proceeding.

6 Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM by using the knob and
resolution selection keys.
V MI 11.058
View
Calibrate

7 Save the changes and select the high voltage calibration point.
V HI 19.500

8 Enter the reading you obtained from the DVM by using the knob and
resolution selection keys.
V HI 19.495
View
Calibrate

9 Save the changes and go to the OVP calibration mode.
ovp cal

If the calibration fails, an error message will be displayed for a second and go
back to the voltage calibration mode again. A ‘‘VOLTAGE CAL’’ message is
displayed. Above message is displayed to indicate that the power supply is
ready for the OVP calibration.

184

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure

View
Calibrate

10 Run the OVP calibration.
CALibrating

Above message is displayed to indicate that the calibration is progressing. It
takes approximately 10 seconds to complete the calibration. If the calibration
fails, an error message will be displayed for a second and you will hear a beep,
and then go back to the OVP calibration mode again.

Current Calibration

Connect an appropriate shunt 0.01 Ω across the output terminals, and
connect a digital voltmeter across the shunt resistor for the current
calibration.
View
Calibrate

11 Select the low-end current calibration point.
Current cal
I LO 0.2000

12 Enter the computed value (DVM reading ÷ by shunt resistance) by
using the knob and resolution selection keys.
Notice that you should wait for the DVM reading to be stabilized for accurate
calibration during the current calibration.
I LO 0.1900

185

Appendix Service Information
General Calibration/Adjustment Procedure

View

13 Save the changes and select the middle current calibration point.

Calibrate

I MI 1.5000

If the entered number is within an acceptable range, an ‘‘ENTERED’’ message
appears for a second. If the entered number is not correct, an error message
will be displayed for a second and you will hear a beep, and then go back to
the low, middle, or high current calibration point again as proceeding.

14 Enter the computed value (DVM reading ÷ by shunt resistance) by
using the knob and resolution selection keys.
I MI 1.5400
View

15 Save the change and select the high current calibration point.

Calibrate

I HI 2.8000

16 Enter the computed value (DVM reading ÷ by shunt resistance) by
using the knob and resolution selection keys.
I HI 2.789 A
View
Calibrate

Power

17 Save the new current calibration constants and exit the calibration
mode.
CAL mode

If the calibration fails, an error message will be displayed for one second and
you will hear a beep, and then go back to the current calibration mode again.
A ‘‘CURRENT CAL’’ message is displayed.

186

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Calibration Record for Your Power Supply

Calibration Record for Your Power Supply

Step

Calibration Description

1

Turn on the calibration mode by holding down the "Calibrate" key as you
turn on the power supply until you hear a long beep.

2

Unsecure the power supply if secured. (See page 69)

3

Press "Calibrate" key to move down menu to voltage calibration menu.
A "VOLTAGE CAL" is displayed. Press "Calibrate" key to select the
low voltage calibration point.

Measurement
Mode (DVM)

Supply Being
Adjusted

Voltage
Calibration

4

A low voltage calibration point is displayed. Enter the DVM reading by
using the knob and resolution keys. Press "Calibrate" key to save the
changes and select the middle calibration point.

V

5

A middle voltage calibration point is displayed. Enter the DVM reading
by using the knob and resolution selection keys. Press "Calibrate" key to
save the changes and select the high calibration point.

V

Middle voltage
calibration

6

A high voltage calibration point is displayed. Enter the DVM reading by
using the knob and resolution selection keys. Press "Calibrate" key to
save the changes and select the OVP calibration.

V

High voltage
calibration

"OVP CAL" is displayed. Press "Calibrate" key to run the overvoltage
calibration. A "CALIBRATING" is displayed to indicate that the
calibration is progressing.

V

7

Low voltage
calibration

OVP calibration

8

Connect shunt resistor (0.01 Ω) across the output terminals. And press
"Calibrate" key to select the current calibration.

9

A low current calibration point is displayed. Enter the computed value
(DVM reading / by shunt resistance) by using the knob and resolution
keys. Press "Calibrate" key to save the changes and select the middle
calibration point.

A

Low current
calibration

10

A middle current calibration point is displayed. Enter the computed value
(DVM reading / by shunt resistance) by using the knob and resolution
keys. Press "Calibrate" key to save the changes and select the high
calibration point.

A

Middle current
calibration

11

A high current calibration point is displayed. Enter the computed value
(DVM reading / by shunt resistance) by using the knob and resolution
keys. Press "Calibrate" key to save the changes

A

High current
calibration

13

Turn off the "Power" switch to exit the calibration menu.

Current calibration

Exit CAL MODE

187

Appendix Service Information
Calibration Error Messages

Calibration Error Messages
The following tables are abbreviated lists of error messages for the E3640A,
E3641A, E3642A, E3643A, E3644A, and E3645A. The errors listed below are
the most likely errors to be encountered during calibration and adjustment. A
more complete list of error messages and descriptions is contained in chapter
5.

Calibration Error Messages
Error
701
702
703
704
705
706
708
712
713
714
717
718
740
741
743
744
745
746
747
748
749
754
755

188

Error Messages
Cal security disabled by jumper
Cal secured
Invalid secure code
Secure code too long
Cal aborted
Cal value out of range
Cal output disabled
Bad DAC cal data
Bad readback cal data
Bad OVP cal data
Cal OVP status enabled
Gain out of range for gain error correction
Cal checksum failed, secure state
Cal checksum failed, string data
Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 1
Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 2
Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 3
Cal checksum failed, DAC cal constants
Cal checksum failed, readback cal constants
Cal checksum failed, GPIB address
Cal checksum failed, internal data
Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 4
Cal checksum failed, store/recall data in location 5

Service
Information

Appendix Service Information
Schematics

Schematics
Schematics and Diagrams

This chapter contains a block diagram, schematics, and component locator
drawings for the power supply.
• Component Locator (top) for main board assembly, on page 190.
• Component Locator (bottom) for main board assembly, on page 191.
• Component Locator for front panel, on page 192.

189

Index
If you have questions relating to the operation of the power supply,
call 1-800-829-4444 in the United States, or contact your nearest
Agilent Technologies Sales Office.

A

commands(Interface Configuration)

AC input ratings 152
accessories 30
activation time 150
active load 36
annunciators, display 5
application programs 124
asterisk ( * ) 106

B

basic tests
output checkout 18, 19
preliminary checkout 17
battery charging 53
bus controller, interrupt 99
C programming example 125
calibration 62
disable security code 62
interval (recommended) 152
message (string) reading 66
calibration commands 89
carrying handle 23
character frame 59
checkout
current output 19
preliminary 17
voltage output 18
colon 105
command format 104
command separators
colon 105
semicolon 105
command syntax 104
commands(calibration)

CALibration:COUNt? 89
CALibration:CURRent:LEVel
89
CALibration:CURRent[:DATA]
89
CALibration:SECure:CODE 89
CALibration:SECure:STATe 90
CALibration:SECure:STATe?
90
CALibration:STRing 90
CALibration:STRing? 90
CALibration:VOLTage:LEVel
90
CALibration:VOLTage:PROTection 90
CALibration:VOLTage[:DATA]
90

commands(output setting and
measurement)

APPLy 77
APPLy? 77
CURRent 78
CURRent:STEP 78
CURRent:STEP? 79
CURRent:TRIGgered 79
CURRent:TRIGgered? 79
CURRent? 78
MEASure:CURRent? 81
MEASure[:VOLTage]? 81
VOLTage 79
VOLTage:PROTection 80
VOLTage:PROTection:CLEar 81
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe 81
VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?
81
VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped? 81
VOLTage:PROTection? 81
VOLTage:RANGe 81
VOLTage:RANGe? 81
VOLTage:STEP 80
VOLTage:STEP? 80
VOLTage:TRIGgered 80
VOLTage:TRIGgered? 80
VOLTage? 79

commands(state storage)

*RCL { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 } 88
*SAV { 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 } 88
MEMory:STATe:NAME { 1 | 2 |
3 | 4 | 5} 88

commands(status reporting)

*CLS 101
*ESE 101
*ESE? 102
*ESR? 102
*OPC 102
*OPC? 102
*PSC { 0 | 1 } 102
*PSC? 102
*SRE 102
*SRE? 102
*STB? 102
*WAI 102
STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition? 101
STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle
101

STATus:QUEStionable:ENABle? 101
STATus:QUEStionable? 101
SYSTem:ERRor? 101

commands(system-related)

*IDN? 86
*RST 87
*TST? 86
DISPlay {OFF | ON} 85
DISPlay:TEXT 85
DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar 85
DISPlay:TEXT? 85
DISPlay? 85
OUTPut {OFF | ON} 85
OUTPut:RELay {OFF | ON} 85
OUTPut:RELay? 86
OUTPut? 85
SYSTem:BEEPer 86
SYSTem:COMMunicate:GPIB
RDEVice 86
SYSTem:ERRor? 86
SYSTem:VERSion? 86

commands(triggering)

*TRG 84
INITiate 84
TRIGger:DELay 84
TRIGger:DELay? 84
TRIGger:SOURce 84
TRIGger:SOURce? 84

common commands (IEEE-488.2) 106
common mode current noise 141
connection to a computer or terminal
DB-25 Serial Connection 61
DB-9 Serial Connection 60
GPIB connector 58
connections(power supplies)
parallel connections 143
series connections 143
connector
GPIB 58
RS-232 (serial) 59
constant current (CC) mode 139, 140
constant current operation 44, 45
constant voltage (CV) mode 139, 140
constant voltage operation 42, 43
cooling 33, 152
coupling effects 38
current limit 44
Current Ratings 34

193

Index

C

 92
SYSTem:INTerface 92
SYSTem:LOCal 92
SYSTem:REMote 92
SYSTem:RWLock 92

Index

D

device specific commands 111
dimensions of power supply 153
distribution terminals 38
down-programming response 145
dummy load resistor 36

Index

E

enable register? 93
environmental conditions 153
error conditions 56
error messages 114
error queue 114
error string 114
error trapping 125
errors
calibration 121
excution 115
self-test 120
event register 93
example for calibration 91
example program for C and C 125
example program for Excel 97 129
Excel Macros 129

F

feedback control circuits 137
firmware revision query 57
first-in-first-out (FIFO) order 114
float voltage
without insulation 32
front panel
annunciators 5
key descriptions 3
layout 2
operation overview 41
front panel resolution 149
fuse ratings 20

G

GPIB
connector 58

H

halting an output 108
hierarchical structure 103
HP-IB
interface configuration 58

194

I

ideal constant-current power supply
139
ideal constant-voltage power supply
139
ideal power supply 141
IEEE-488
conformance information 112
IEEE-488.2
common commands 106
initial inspection
electrical check 33
mechanical check 33
input power (maximum) 152
installation 33
interface cable
DB-25 connector 60
DB-9 connector 60
gender changers 60
GPIB cable 30
HP 34399A adapter Kit 60
null-modem adapters 60
RS-232 cable 30
wiring adapter 60

K

key descriptions (front panel) 3
keyword(s)
lower-level 103
root 103
second-level 103
third-level 103
knob locking 54

L

limit mode 41, 42
line regulation 149
line voltage conversion 21
load capacitors 35
load consideration
capacitive loading 35
inductive loading 35
pulse loading 35
reverse current loading 36
load regulation 149
loop stability 35
low-level commands 74

M

macro 130
message available bit (MAV) 99
meter 41
meter mode 18
MIN and MAX Parameters 105
multiple loads 38
mutual coupling effects 38

N

noise
common mode 142
normal mode 142
non-SCPI commands 111
non-volatile memory 48
normal mode voltage noise 141

O

operating temperature 152
output buffer 97
output characteristics 139
output disabling 54
output impedance 139
output programming range 151
output ratings 149
output setting and operation commands
78
output state (on,off) 54
output terminal isolation 152
output voltage overshoot 151
OVP (Overvoltage Protection)
checking OVP Operation 51
clearing overvoltage condition 51
enabling OVP 50
remote interface operation 52
setting OVP level 50
trip level setting 50
OVP accuracy 150

P

parallel connections 143
parameter types (SCPI) 107
performance specifications 149
phase-controlled pre-regulator 137
power-line cord 17
power-line fuse 20
power-on reset (*RST command)
88
preliminary checkout 17
pre-regulator 137
programming accuracy 149

87,

Index

programming language 152
programming ranges (voltage/current)
76
programming resolution 149

Q

query data 97
query response reading 75
questionable status register 95

R

safety information 29
SCPI
command terminators 106
confirmed commands 109, 110
conformance information 109
device-specific 111
language introduction 103
non-SCPI commands 111
status registers 93
version 57, 109
version query 57
SCPI parameters
Boolean 107
Discrete 107
Numeric 107
String 107
scrolling speed, error text 114
self-test
complete 17, 56
power-on 56
to perform 56
semicolon 105
series element 137
series operation, connection 143
series regulated supply 137
series resistance 137
service request (SRQ) interrupt 98
settling time 150
speed of response
down programming 145
up-programming 144
square brackets 69
stability 35, 151
standard event register 96
start bits (RS-232) 59
State Storage Memory 152
status byte query (*STB) 99
status byte summary register 97
status reporting commands 101
stop bits (RS-232) 59
storage temperature 153
storing operating states 48
storing power supply states 55
storing state

assing a name 55
locations 55
recall a stored state 55
subsystems 103
supplemental characteristics 151
system firmware revision 57
system-related commands 85

T

temperature coefficient 151
transient response time 150
tree system 103
triangle brackets 69
trigger source
bus (software) 75
immediate internal trigger 75
Trigger Source Choices
Bus (Software) Triggering 82
Immediate Triggering 83

U

unregulated state (condition) 141
up-programming response 144

V

variable resistor 137
vertical bar 69
VFD 32
VISA 124
VISA functionality 125
visa.dll 124
visa32.dll 124
Visual Basic 129
Voltage Drops 35
voltage limit 42
voltage spikes 142

W

weight of power supply 153
wire rating 34

195

Index

rack mounting 24
reference dimension 154
rack-mounting kit 24
readback accuracy 149
readback resolution 149
rear panel
GPIB (IEEE-488) interface connector 6
layout 6
output terminals 6
RS-232 interface connector 6
recalling operating states 48
register
enable register 93
event register 93
event status enable command 96
questionable status 95
questionable status enable 95
questionable status event 95
standard event 96
status byte 97
status byte summary 97
remote programming 144
remote sensing capability 151
remote voltage sensing
connections 36
reverse current 36
reverse polarity diode 143
ripple and noise 149
RS-232
Configuration 59
Data Frame Format 59
troubleshooting 61

S

Index

Index

196

Copyright© 1999 - 2009
Agilent Technologies
All Rights Reserved.
Printing History
Edition 5, June 2009
New editions are complete
revisions of the manual.
Update packages, which are
issued between editions,
may contain additional
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dates on this page change
only when a new edition is
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Windows, Windows 95, and
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trademarks of Microsoft
Corp.
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Agilent Technologies
certifies that this product
met its published specifications at the time of shipment. Agilent further
certifies that its calibration
measurements are traceable to the United States
National Institute of Standards and Technology (formerly National Bureau of
Standards), to the extent
allowed by that organization’s calibration facility,
and to the calibration facilities of other International
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This Agilent product is warranted against defects in
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for a period of one year from
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for this product may be
superseded when the product is integrated into
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During the warranty period,
Agilent will, at its option,
either repair or replace
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installation if installed by
Agilent.

Warranty Service
For warranty service or
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shall not apply to defects
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the Buyer, Buyer-supplied
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or misuse, operation outside
of the environmental specifications for the product, or
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The design and implementation of any circuit on this
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extent lawfully permitted,
do not exclude, restrict, or
modify and are in addition
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Manual Part Number: E3640-90001

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Safety Information
Do not install substitute
parts or perform any
unauthorized modification
to the product. Return the
product to an HP Sales and
Service Office for service
and repair to ensure that
safety features are maintained.
Safety Symbols
Warning

Calls attention to a procedure, practice, or condition,
that could possibly cause
bodily injury or death.
Caution

Calls attention to a procedure, practice, or condition
that could possibly cause
damage to equipment or permanent loss of data.

Earth ground symbol.

Chassis ground symbol.

!
Refer to the manual for
specific Warning or Caution
information to avoid personal injury or equipment
damage.
Hazardous voltages may be
present.
Warning

No operator serviceable
parts inside. Refer servicing
to service-trained personnel.
Warning

For continued protection
against fire, replace the line
fuse only with a fuse of the
specified type and rating.
Printed: June 2009 Edition 5
Printed in Malaysia

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and CEN/CENELEC EN 45014

Manufacturer’s Name and Addresss
Responsible Party
Agilent Technologies, Inc.
550 Clark Drive, Suite 101
Budd Lake, New Jersey 07828
USA

Alternate Manufacturing Site
Agilent Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd
Malaysia Manufacturing
Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, PH III
11900 Penang,
Malaysia

Declares under sole responsibility that the product as originally delivered
Product Name:

a) Single Output dc Power Supplies
b) Multiple Output dc Power Supplies
c) Single Output System Power Supply

Model Nu mber:

a) E3640A, E3641A, E3642A, E3643A, E3644A, E3645A
b) E3646A, E3647A, E3648A, E3649A
c) E3633A, E3634A

Product Options:

This declaration covers all options of the above product(s).

Complies with the essential requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC
Directive 89/336/EEC (including 93/68/EEC) and carries the CE Marking accordingly .
EMC Information

ISM Group 1 Class A Emissions

As detailed in

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Certificate of Conformance Number
CC/TCF/00/102 based on Technical Construction File (TCF) ANJ12, dated Dec
20, 2000.

Assessed by:

Celestica Ltd, Appointed Competent Body
Westfields House, West Avenue
Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent
Straffordshire, ST7 1TL
United Kingdom

Safety Information

and Conforms to the following safety standards.
IEC 61010-1:2001 / EN 61010-1:2001
CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1:1992

This DoC applies to above-listed products placed on the EU market after:

January 1, 2004
Date

Bill Darcy/ Regulations Manager

For further information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies sales office, agent or distributor, or
Agilent Technologies Deutschland GmbH, Herrenberger Straβe 130, D71034 Böblingen, Germany

Revision: B.00.00

Issue Date: Created on 11/24/2003 3:07
PM

Document No. KIO_40-49.11.24.doc

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Fifth Edition, June 2009
E3640-90001

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Metadata Date                   : 2009:06:11 08:57:55+08:00
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Document ID                     : uuid:20c75ea2-283e-408f-a18e-a5f439680d09
Instance ID                     : uuid:2d2c0294-b715-4b06-bcf6-22faef34973f
Has XFA                         : No
Page Count                      : 200
Author                          : desmolew
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