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5.16. SOURce

5.16. SOURce

The SOURce commands are used to set the output voltage, current and power values, remote voltage sensing, and implemented protection mechanisms on the specified channel. Although the APPLy command provides the most straightforward method to program the BB3 over the remote interfaces, the SOURce commands give you more flexibility to change individual parameters.

 

SCPI command

Description

[SOURce[<n>]]

 

:CURRent

 

[:LEVel]

 

[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<current>}

Sets the output current

:STEP[:INCRement] {<step>}

Sets the step of the current change

:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<current>}

Sets the triggered output current

:FUNCtion

 

:AMPLitude {<amplitude>}

Sets the output current waveform amplitude

:DUTY {<duty>}

Sets the output current waveform duty cycle

:FREQuency {<frequency>}

Sets the output current waveform frequency

:OFFSet {<offset>}

Sets the output current waveform offset

:PHASeshift {<phase>}

Sets the output current waveform phase shift

:SHAPe {<waveform>}

Sets the output current waveform type

:LIMit

 

[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<current>}

Sets the output current limit

:MODE {<mode>}

Sets the current trigger mode

:PROTection

 

:DELay

 

[:TIME] {<time>}

Sets the over-current protection (OCP) programming delay

:STATe {<bool>}

Enables/disables the over-current protection on the selected channel

:TRIPped?

Returns the status of over-current protection activation

:RAMP:DURation {<duration>}

Sets the output current ramp duration

[:DC]

 

:RANGe {<range>} [, <channel>]

Selects a DC output current range

:DIGital

 

:DATA[:BYTE] {<value>}

Set output states of the digital output channel

:FUNCtion

 

:DUTY {<pin>}, {<duty>}

Sets the digital output waveform duty cycle

:FREQuency {<pin>}, {<frequency>}

Sets the digital output waveform frequency

:PHASeshift {<pin>}, {<phase>}

Sets the digital output waveform phase shift

:SHAPe {<pin>}, {<waveform>}

Sets the digital output waveform type

:MODE {<pin>}, {<mode>}

Sets the digital output trigger mode

:LIST

 

:COUNt

Sets the number of times that the list is executed

:CURRent[:LEVel]

Specifies the current setting for each list step

:DWELl

Specifies the dwell time for each list step

:VOLTage[:LEVel]

Specifies the voltage setting for each list step

:POWer

 

:LIMit {<power>}

Sets the output power limit

:PROTection[:LEVel]

Sets the over-power protection (OPP) level

:DELay

 

[:TIME] {<time>}

Sets the over-power protection programming delay

:STATe {<bool>}

Enables/disables over-power protection on the selected channel

:TRIPped?

Returns the status of over-power protection activation

:PWM

 

:DUTY {<duty>}

Sets the duty cycle of the output

:FREQuency {<frequency>}

Sets the frequency of the output

:STATe {<bool>}

Enables/disables PWM

:VOLTage

 

[:LEVel]

 

[:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

Sets the output voltage

:STEP[:INCRement] {<step>}

Sets the step of the voltage change

:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

Sets the triggered output voltage

:FUNCtion

 

:AMPLitude {<amplitude>}

Sets the output voltage waveform amplitude

:DUTY {<duty>}

Sets the output voltage waveform duty cycle

:FREQuency {<frequency>}

Sets the output voltage waveform frequency

:OFFSet {<offset>}

Sets the output voltage waveform offset

:PHASeshift {<phase>}

Sets the output voltage waveform phase shift

:SHAPe {<waveform>}

Sets the output voltage waveform type

:LIMit

 

[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

Sets the output voltage limit

:MODE {<mode>}

Sets the voltage trigger mode

:PROGram[:SOURce] {<source>}

Sets the voltage programming source

:PROTection[:LEVel]

Sets the over-voltage protection (OVP) level

:DELay

 

[:TIME] {<time>}

Sets the over-voltage protection (OVP) programming delay

:STATe {<bool>}

Enables/disables over-voltage protection on the selected channel

:TRIPped?

Returns status of over-voltage protection activation

:TYPE {<type>}

Selects the over-voltage protection (OVP) type

:RAMP:DURation {<duration>}

Sets the output voltage ramp duration

[:DC]

 

:RANGe {<range>} [, <channel>]

Selects a DC output voltage range

:SENSe[:SOURce] {<source>}

Sets the voltage sense inputs source

 

5.16.1. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<current>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [<query current>]

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

This command sets the immediate current level of the channel. Units are in amperes. When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

 

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. A new increment setting will not cause an execution error -222,"Data out of range" when the maximum or the minimum rated current is exceeded – the output value will be set to the maximum or the minimum value instead.

 

At *RST, the signal being sourced will be set to a "safe" condition. This is achieved by setting the amplitude to its MINimum value (see Section 8.1).

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<current>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX|UP|DOWN

The maximum value is dependent on the module current rating. See Section 8.1

 

<query current>

Discrete

MIN|DEF|MAX

Return

The query command returns the programmed current level. CURR? MIN, CURR? DEF and CURR? MAX can be used to obtain minimum, default and maximum current level on the currently selected channel. For actual output current value use MEASure:CURRent command.

Usage example

A 10 Ω load is connected and voltage is set to 20 V. With MAX current set measured current will be 2 A. When new current value is set to 1.2 A, voltage will drop to 12 V (the channel enters the CC mode of operation):

INST CH1

VOLT 20

CURR MAX

MEAS:VOLT?

20.00

CURR 1.2

MEAS:VOLT?

12.00

Query that returns maximum current of the currently selected channel:

CURR? MAX

5.00

Errors

150,"Power limit exceeded"

-222,"Data out of range"

Related Commands

*SAV

*RST

APPLy

MEASure[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]?

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]

5.16.2. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:STEP

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {<step>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? [<query step>]

Description

Set the step of the current change of the channel. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command. Step change is performed by using UP and DOWN as parameter for the [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<step>

NR2|Discrete

0.01 to 1|DEFault

0.05

 

<query step>

Discrete

DEFault

Return

The query returns the step of the current change of the specified channel.

Usage example

Return default step value:

CURR:STEP? DEF

0.05

When a 10 Ω load is connected with voltage set to 20 V and current to 1 A the first channel enters CC mode of operation. Current is then increased from 1 A in two steps to 1.2 A:

APPL CH1, 20,1

MEAS:VOLT?

10.00

CURR:STEP 0.1

CURR UP

MEAS:CURR?

1.10

CURR UP

MEAS:CURR?

1.20

MEAS:VOLT?

12.00

Related Commands

*SAV

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent

5.16.3. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:TRIGgered

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<current>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [<query current>]

Modules

 DCP  

Description

This command programs 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.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<current>

NR2|Discrete

0 to maximum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The MAXimum value is dependent on the module current rating. See Section 8.1

0.00

 

<query current>

Discrete

MIN|DEF|MAX

Return

Query the triggered current level presently programmed. If no triggered level is programmed, the CURRent level is returned. CURR:TRIG? MIN and CURR:TRIG? MAX return the lowest and highest programmable triggered current levels.

Usage example

On the currently selected channel voltage will be set to 3.3 V and current to 1 A when INITiate command is executed:

VOLT:TRIG 3.3

CURR:TRIG 1

TRIG:SOUR IMM

INIT

Related Commands

ABORt

5.16.4. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<current>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [<query current>]

Description

This command sets the channel’s output current limit. Units are in amperes.

When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

This command could be used as mean of protection against incidental programming of too high output current that can be set for example with [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:STEP command.

 

Maximum limit value will be affected with detected failure of cooling fan or channel’s temperature sensor. Use CURR:LIM? MAX to query actual value.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<current>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The MAXimum value is dependent on the module current rating. See Section 8.1

MAXimum

 

<query current>

Discrete

MIN|DEF|MAX

Return

The query returns the max. allowed output current of the specified channel. Querying MAX on an output channel returns the maximum current limit.

Usage example

Normal mode of operation for 5 A module:

CURR:LIM MAX?

5.00

Max. allowable current with faulty cooling fan or temperature sensor:

CURR:LIM MAX?

1.00

Related Commands

*SAV

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:STEP

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:LIMit

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

5.16.5. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:AMPLitude

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:AMPLitude {<amplitude>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:AMPLitude?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform amplitude in amperes when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<amplitude>

NR2

MINimum to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform amplitude.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:AMPL 1

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:AMPLitude

5.16.6. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:DUTY

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:DUTY {<duty>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:DUTY?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform duty cycle in percentages when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<duty>

NR2

0 – 100

25

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform duty cycle.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:DUTY 25

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:DUTY

5.16.7. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:FREQuency

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:FREQuency {<frequency>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:FREQuency?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform frequency in Hertz when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<frequency>

NR2

0 to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform frequency.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:FREQ 10

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:FREQuency

5.16.8. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:OFFSet

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:OFFSet {<offset>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:OFFSet?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform offset in amperes when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<offset>

NR2

MINimum to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform offset.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:OFFS 1.2

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:OFFSet

5.16.9. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:PHASeshift {<phase>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:PHASeshift?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform phase shift in degrees when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<phase>

NR2

0 – 360

0

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform phase shift.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:PHAS 180

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

5.16.10. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:SHAPe

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:SHAPe {<waveform>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:SHAPe?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output current waveform type when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<waveform>

Discrete

DC|SINe|HALFrectified|FULLrectified|TRIangle|SQUare|PULSe|SAWTooth

DC

Return

The query command returns the set output current waveform type as a quoted string.

Usage example

CURR:FUNC:SHAP FULL

CURR:FULL:SHAP?

"FULL"

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:SHAPe

5.16.11. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE {<mode>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

This command determines what happens to the output current when the transient system is initiated and triggered:

  • FIXed – the output current remains at the immediate value
  • LIST – the output follows the list values when a trigger occurs.
  • STEP – the output goes to the triggered level when a trigger occurs.
  • FUNCgen – the output follows the function generator waveform when a trigger occurs.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<mode>

Discrete

FIXed|LIST|STEP|FUNCgen

FIXed

Return

The query command returns the current mode of the currently selected channel.

Usage example

CURR:MODE?

FIX

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:CURRent[:LEVel]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.12. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] {<time>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]? [<query time>]

Description

This command sets the over-current protection delay. The over-current protection function will not be triggered on the selected output channel during the delay time. After the delay time has expired, the over-current protection function will be active.

This prevents momentary changes in output status from triggering the over-current protection function. Programmed values can range from 0 to 10 seconds. See also Section 8.1

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<time>

NR2|Discrete

0 – 10|DEFault

20 ms

 

<query time>

Discrete

DEFault

Return

The query command returns the programmed delay time.

Usage example

Get default OCP delay of 20 milliseconds:

CURR:PROT:DEL? DEF

0.02

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

5.16.13. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:STATe

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:STATe {<bool>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:STATe?

Description

This command enables or disables the over-current protection (OCP) function. The enabled state is ON (1); the disabled state is OFF (0).

Since the power modules do not have a dedicated over-current protection circuit that can be programmed independently of output current level, entering the CC (constant current) mode of operation is used as a trigger to start OCP sequence. When delay time specified with the [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] command expired the output turns off and the Questionable Condition status register OCP bit 9 is set. An error tone will also follow if beeper is enabled (see SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe).

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped? command can be used to query whether over-current protection occurred on the selected channel.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<bool>

Boolean

ON|OFF|0|1

OFF

Return

The query command returns 0 if the current protection state is OFF, and 1 if the current protection state is ON.

Usage example

CURR:PROT:STAT?

0

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

OUTPut:PROTection:COUPle

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped

SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe

5.16.14. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped?

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:PROTection:TRIPped?

Description

Query whether OCP occurred on the currently selected channel. When protection is tripped bit 9 (OCP) of the Questionable Instrument Isummary register will be set (see Section 3.4.2).

The OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar command can be send to clear OCP condition on the selected channel.

Return

This query returns a 1 if the protection circuit is tripped and a 0 if it is untripped.

Usage example

CURR:PROT:TRIP?

1

Related Commands

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

5.16.15. [SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:RAMP:DURation

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:RAMP:DURation {<duration>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:RAMP:DURation?

Description

Use this command to configures a constant rise of output current limit on the channel <n> within a set duration. The output current limit can be increased continuously within a 0 to 10 seconds with 1 ms step size.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<duration>

NR2

0 – 10

Return

The query command returns set duration in seconds of the output current start ramp.

Usage example

CURR:RAMP:DUR 0.5

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:RAMP:DURation

5.16.16. SOURce:CURRent[:DC]:RANGe

Syntax

SOURce:CURRent[:DC]:RANGe {<range>} [, <channel>]

SOURce:CURRent[:DC]:RANGe? [<channel>]

Modules

 MIO 

Description

This command selects a DC output current range on AOUT1 and OUT2 of the MIO168 module. Units are in amperes.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<range>

NR1

1 – 3

 

<channel>

Channel

(@n07), (@n08)

Return

The query returns the presently selected output current range.

Usage example

SOUR:CURR:RANG 1

Errors

-241,"Hardware missing"

Related Commands

SOURCe:VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe

5.16.17. SOURce:DIGital:DATA[:BYTE]

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:DATA[:BYTE] {<value>}

SOURce:DIGital:DATA[:BYTE]?

Modules

 MIO 

Description

Use this command to set output states of the digital output channel on the MIO168. Value is binary-weighted decimal representing the bits, for example if we want to set bit 1,2 and 8, set value has to be 1+2+128=131.

 

Please note that (@n02) resource, where n is the slot number, on the MIO168 module are low-side switches. Therefore changes cannot be noticed on outputs without connected load.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<value>

NR1

0 – 255

Return

Returns a binary-weighted decimal representing the bits set on the selected digital output channel.

Usage example

Set DOUT1 and DOUT2 on the MIO168 module installed in slot 2:

INST (@302)

SOUR:DIG:DATA 3

5.16.18. SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:DUTY

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:DUTY {<pin>}, {<duty>}

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:DUTY? {<pin>}

Modules

 MIO 

Description

Use this command to set the digital output voltage waveform duty cycle in percentages when the trigger mode is set to the function generator.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<pin>

NR1

1 – 8

 

<duty>

NR2

0 – 100

25

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform duty cycle.

Usage example

SOUR:DIG:FUNC:DUTY 1, 10

Related Commands

SOURce:VOLTage:FUNCtion:DUTY

5.16.19. SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:FREQuency

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:FREQuency {<pin>}, {<frequency>}

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:FREQuency? {<pin>}

Modules

 MIO 

Description

Use this command to set the digital output voltage waveform frequency in Hertz when the trigger mode is set to the function generator.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<pin>

NR1

1 – 8

 

<frequency>

NR2

0 to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform frequency.

Usage example

SOUR:DIG:FUNC:FREQ 4000

Related Commands

SOURce:VOLTage:FUNCtion:FREQuency

5.16.20. SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:PHASeshift {<pin>}, {<phase>}

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:PHASeshift? {<pin>}

Modules

 MIO 

Description

Use this command to set the digital output voltage waveform phase shift in degrees when the trigger mode is set to the function generator.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<pin>

NR1

1 – 8

 

<phase>

NR2

0 – 360

0

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform phase shift.

Usage example

SOUR:DIG:FUNC:PHAS 90

Related Commands

SOURce:VOLTage:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

5.16.21. SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:SHAPe

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:SHAPe {<pin>}, {<waveform>}

SOURce:DIGital:FUNCtion:SHAPe? {<pin>}

Modules

 MIO 

Description

Use this command to set the digital output voltage waveform type when the trigger mode is set to the function generator.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<pin>

NR1

1 – 8

 

<waveform>

Discrete

DC|SQUare|PULSe

DC

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform type as a quoted string.

Usage example

SOUR:DIG:FUNC:SHAP PULS

Related Commands

SOURce:VOLTage:FUNCtion:SHAPe

5.16.22. SOURce:DIGital:MODE

Syntax

SOURce:DIGital:MODE {<pin>}, {<mode>}

SOURce:DIGital:MODE? {<pin>}

Modules

 MIO 

Description

This command determines what happens to the digital output when the transient system is initiated and triggered:

  • FIXed – the output remains at the immediate value
  • FUNCgen – the output follows the function generator waveform when a trigger occurs.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<pin>

NR1

1 – 8

 

<mode>

Discrete

FIXed|FUNCgen

FIXed

Return

The query command returns the mode of the currently selected digital output.

Usage example

INST (@301)

SOUR:DIG:MODE?

FIX

5.16.23. SOURce:FUNCtion[:ON]

Syntax

SOURce:FUNCtion[:ON] {<function>}

SOURce:FUNCtion[:ON]?

Modules

 MIO 

Description

This command defines AOUT1 and AOUT2 output mode of the MIO168 module that could be current or voltage.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<function>

Discrete

CURRent|VOLTage

 

<channel>

channel

(@n03), (@n04) where n is the slot number

 

Return

The query command returns set output mode.

Usage example

SOUR:FUNC CURR,(@304)

 

Related Commands

SENSe:FUNCtion[:ON]

5.16.24. [SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt {<count>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt?

Description

This command sets the number of times that the list is executed before it is completed. The list count range is 1 through 65535. Use the INFinity parameter or 0 to execute a list continuously.

 

Use ABORt to stop the list at any time. When the list is aborted, the output returns to the settings that were in effect before the list started.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<count>

NR1|Discrete

0|1 – 65535|INFinity

1

Return

The query command returns the list count. Multiple responses are separated by commas. If a repeat count of 0 is returned, it means the list is set to repeat continuously.

Usage example

LIST:COUN?

10

Related Commands

ABORt

INITiate[:IMMediate]

MMEMory:LOAD:LIST[<n>]

MMEMory:STORe:LIST[<n>]

5.16.25. [SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:CURRent[:LEVel]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:CURRent[:LEVel] {<current>}[, …]

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:CURRent[:LEVel]?

Description

This command specifies the current setting for each list step in amperes. A comma-delimited list of up to 256 steps may be programmed.

The order in which the current values are entered determines the sequence when the list executes.

To create a valid list, the VOLTage, CURRent and DWELl lists must either all be the same length, or have a length of 1, which is interpreted as having the same length as the list with the maximum length.

This command overwrites any previously programmed current list; it does not append to the previous list.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<current>

NR2|Discrete

0 to maximum, MIN|DEF|MAX|UP|DOWN

The MAXimum value is dependent on the power module current rating. See Section 8.1

Return

The query command returns the programmed current level. Multiple responses are separated by commas.

Usage example

LIST:CURR 0.25

Errors

306,"Too many list points"

Related Commands

MMEMory:LOAD:LIST[<n>]

MMEMory:STORe:LIST[<n>]

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt

5.16.26. [SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:DWELl

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:DWELl {<time>}[, …]

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:DWELl?

Description

This command specifies the dwell time for each list step. A comma-delimited list of up to 256 steps may be programmed. Dwell time is the time that the output will remain at a specific step. Dwell times can be programmed from 0 through 65535 seconds.

 

Note that min. dwell time that can be achieved during the list execution depends of MCU activity and waveform shape. Therefore one have to find that out experimentally while list is executed on desired number of channels (one or two). Usage of oscilloscope is recommended for fast transitions since e.g. YT view resolution cannot be set to less then 20 ms. The expected usable min. dwell time goes well below 10 ms (down to 1 ms).

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<time>

NR2

0 – 65535

Return

The query command returns the programmed dwell times. Multiple responses are separated by commas.

Usage example

LIST:DWEL 20ms,10ms,10ms,50ms

Errors

306,"Too many list points"

Related Commands

MMEMory:LOAD:LIST[<n>]

MMEMory:STORe:LIST[<n>]

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt

5.16.27. [SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:VOLTage[:LEVel]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:VOLTage[:LEVel] {<voltage>}[, …]

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:VOLTage[:LEVel]?

Description

This command specifies the voltage setting for each list step in volts. A comma-delimited list of up to 256 steps may be programmed.

The order in which the voltage values are entered determines the sequence when the list executes.

To create a valid list, the VOLTage, CURRent and DWELl lists must either all be the same length, or have a length of 1, which is interpreted as having the same length as the list with the maximum length.

This command overwrites any previously programmed voltage list; it does not append to the previous list.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<voltage>

NR2|Discrete

0 to maximum, MIN|DEF|MAX|UP|DOWN

The maximum value is dependent on the power module voltage rating. See Section 8.1

Return

The query command returns the programmed voltage level. Multiple responses are separated by commas.

Usage example

Programming the list that contain 4 steps and will be executed 20 times on the channel 2. Execution will start by receiving remote command (*TRG) since BUS is selected as a trigger source:

INST CH2

LIST:COUN 20

LIST:VOLT 0,1.5,3,4.5

LIST:CURR 0.25

LIST:DWEL 20ms,10ms,10ms,50ms

OUTP ON

*OPC?

0

TRIG:SOUR BUS

INIT

*TRG

Errors

306,"Too many list points"

Related Commands

MMEMory:LOAD:LIST[<n>]

MMEMory:STORe:LIST[<n>]

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:COUNt

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.28. [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:LIMit

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:LIMit {<power>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:LIMit? [<query power>]

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

This command sets the channel’s output power limit. Units are in Watts. Such limitation is required if AC/DC power module cannot provides the same power as connected channel power module. For example, if power module can deliver 200 W but AC/DC power module offers only 155 W then MAXimum allowable continuous power is only 155 W.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<power>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The MAXimum value is dependent on the power module power rating. See Section 8.1

MAXimum

 

<query power>

Discrete

MIN|MAX

Return

The query returns the max. allowed output power of the specified channel. Querying MAX on an output channel returns the maximum rated power limit.

Usage example

POW:LIM DEF

POW:LIM?

150.00

Related Commands

*SAV

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

5.16.29. [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel] {<power>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel]?

Description

Set the over-power protection (OPP) value of the channel. When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command. When the over-power protection function of the specified channel is enabled ([SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:STATe), the output turns off automatically when the output power exceeds the over-power protection value currently set.

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:TRIPped? command can be used to query whether over-power protection occurred on the selected channel.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<power>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The maximum value is dependent on the power module power rating. See Section 8.1

DEFault

Return

Query the over-power protection (OPP) value of the selected channel.

Usage example

Set power protection to 50 W on the channel 2:

SOUR2:POW:PROT 50

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:COUPle

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:TRIPped?

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:STATe

5.16.30. [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] {<time>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]? [<query time>]

Description

This command sets the over-power protection (OPP) delay. The over-power protection function will not be triggered on the selected output channel during the delay time. After the delay time has expired, the over-power protection function will be active.

This prevents momentary changes in output status from triggering the over-power protection function. Programmed values can range from 0 to 300 seconds. See also Section 8.1

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<time>

NR2|Discrete

0 – 300|DEFault

10

 

<query time>

Discrete

DEFault

Return

The query command returns the programmed delay time.

Usage example

Get default OPP delay of 10 seconds:

POW:PROT:DEL? DEF

10

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

5.16.31. [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:STATe

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:STATe {<bool>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:STATe?

Description

This command enables or disables the over-power protection (OPP) function. The enabled state is ON (1); the disabled state is OFF (0). If the over-power protection function is enabled and the measure output power reach value set by [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel] the output is disabled and the Questionable Condition status register OPP bit 10 is set.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<bool>

Boolean

ON|OFF|0|1

OFF

Return

The query command returns 0 if the current protection state is OFF, and 1 if the current protection state is ON.

Usage example

POW:PROT:STAT ON

POW:PROT:STAT?

1

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel]

5.16.32. [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:TRIPped?

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:TRIPped?

Description

Query whether OPP occurred on the currently selected channel. When protection is tripped bit 10 (OPP) of the Questionable Instrument Isummary register will be set (see Section 3.4.2).

The OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar command can be send to clear OPP condition on the selected channel.

Return

This query returns a 1 if the protection circuit is tripped and a 0 if it is untripped.

Usage example

POW:PROT:TRIP?

0

Related Commands

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

5.16.33. SOURce:PWM:DUTY

Syntax

SOURce:PWM:DUTY {<duty>}

SOURce:PWM:DUTY?

Modules

 DCM224  MIO 

Description

Use this command to set duty cycle of the fast digital output on the MIO168 module or DCM224 when PWM control (dimming) is enabled with the SOURce:PWM:STATe command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<duty>

NR2

0 – 100

Return

The query command returns the set duty cycle.

Usage example

INST (@311)

SOUR:PWM:DUTY 10

Related Commands

SOURce:PWM:FREQuency

SOURce:PWM:STATe

5.16.34. SOURce:PWM:FREQuency

Syntax

SOURce:PWM:FREQuency {<frequency>}

SOURce:PWM:FREQuency?

Modules

 DCM224  MIO 

Description

Use this command to set frequency of the fast digital output on the MIO168 module or DCM224 when PWM control (dimming) is enabled with the SOURce:PWM:STATe command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<frequency>

NR2

1 – 2

Return

The query command returns the set frequency.

Usage example

Set the PWM frequency of 1 kHz on the MIO168 module installed in slot 3:

INST (@311)

SOUR:PWM:FREQ 1000

 

Set the PWM dimming frequency of 10 Hz on the first channel of the DCM224 module installed in slot 2:

INST (@201)

SOUR:PWM:FREQ 10

Related Commands

SOURce:PWM:DUTY

SOURce:PWM:STATe

5.16.35. SOURce:PWM:STATe

Syntax

SOURce:PWM:STATe {<bool>}

SOURce:PWM:STATe?

Modules

 DCM224 

Description

Use this command to enable or disabled PWM generation on the DCM224 power channel.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<bool>

Boolean

ON|OFF

Return

The query command returns the PWM state.

Usage example

INST (@301)

SOUR:PWM;STAT?

1

Related Commands

SOURce:PWM:DUTY

SOURce:PWM:FREQuency

5.16.36. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [<query voltage>]

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

This command sets the immediate voltage level of the output channel. Units are in volts. When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

 

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. A new increment setting will not cause an execution error -222,"Data out of range" when the maximum or the minimum rated current is exceeded – the output value will be set to the maximum or the minimum value instead.

 

At *RST, the signal being sourced will be set to a "safe" condition. This is achieved by setting the amplitude to its MINimum value (see Section 8.1).

 

The SMX46 has the following two channels that can be programmed with VOLTage command (n is the slot number):

  • (@n01) – Analog output #1, 0 – 10 V, 10 mV set resolution
  • (@n02) – Analog output #2, 0 – 10 V, 10 mV set resolution

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<voltage>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX|UP|DOWN

The maximum value is dependent on the power module voltage rating. See Section 8.1

 

<query voltage>

Discrete

MIN|DEF|MAX

Return

The query command returns the programmed voltage level. VOLT? MIN, VOLT? DEF and VOLT? MAX can be used to obtain minimum, default and maximum voltage level on the currently selected channel. For actual output voltage value use MEASure:VOLTage? command.

Usage example

A 10 Ω load is connected and current is set to 1 A. With MAX voltage set measured voltage will be 10 V. When new voltage value is set to 5 V, current will drop to 0.5 A (the channel enters the CV mode of operation):

INST CH1

VOLT MAX

CURR 1

MEAS:CURR?

1.00

VOLT 5

MEAS:CURR?

0.50

Query that returns maximum voltage of the currently selected channel:

VOLT? MAX

40.00

 

Set 2 V and 5 V respectively for AO1 and AO2 channels of SMX46 installed in slot 2:

INST (@201)

VOLT 2

INST (@202)

VOLT 5

Errors

150,"Power limit exceeded"

-222,"Data out of range"

Related Commands

*SAV

*RST

APPLy

MEASure[:SCALar]:VOLTage[:DC]?

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]

5.16.37. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:AMPLitude

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:AMPLitude {<amplitude>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:AMPLitude?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform amplitude in volts when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<amplitude>

NR2

MINimum to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform amplitude.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:AMPL 1

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:AMPLitude

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.38. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:DUTY

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:DUTY {<duty>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:DUTY?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform duty cycle in percentages when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<duty>

NR2

0 – 100

25

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform duty cycle.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:DUTY 25

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:DUTY

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.39. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:FREQuency

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:FREQuency {<frequency>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:FREQuency?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform frequency in Hertz when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<frequency>

NR2

0 to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform frequency.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:FREQ 10

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:FREQuency

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.40. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:OFFSet

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:OFFSet {<offset>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:OFFSet?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform offset in volts when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<offset>

NR2

MINimum to MAXimum of the selected resource

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform offset.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:OFFS 1.2

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:OFFSet

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.41. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:PHASeshift {<phase>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:PHASeshift?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform phase shift in degrees when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<phase>

NR2

0 – 360

0

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform phase shift.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:PHAS 180

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:PHASeshift

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.42. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:SHAPe

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:SHAPe {<waveform>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:FUNCtion:SHAPe?

Modules

 DCP  DCM 

Description

Use this command to set the output voltage waveform type when the trigger mode is set to the function generator. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<waveform>

Discrete

DC|SINe|HALFrectified|FULLrectified|TRIangle|SQUare|PULSe|SAWTooth

DC

Return

The query command returns the set output voltage waveform type as a quoted string.

Usage example

VOLT:FUNC:SHAP HALF

VOLT:FUNC:SHAP?

"HALF"

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:FUNCtion:SHAPe

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

5.16.43. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]? [<query voltage>]

Description

This command sets the channel’s output voltage limit. Units are in volts.

When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command.

This command could be used as mean of protection against incidental programming of too high output voltage that can be set for example with [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:STEP command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<voltage>

NR2|Discrete

0 to MAXimum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The MAXimum value is dependent on the power module current rating. See Section 8.1

MAXimum

 

<query voltage>

Discrete

MIN|MAX

Return

The query returns the max. allowed output voltage of the specified channel. Querying MAX on an output channel returns the maximum voltage limit.

Usage example

VOLT:LIM 20

Related Commands

*SAV

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:STEP

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:LIMit

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:LIMit[:POSitive][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]

5.16.44. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:STEP

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement] {<step>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:STEP[:INCRement]? [<query step>]

Description

Set the step of the voltage change of the channel. When [SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command. Step change is performed by using UP and DOWN as parameter for the [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage command.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<step>

NR2|Discrete

0.01 to 10|DEFault

0.1

 

<query step>

Discrete

DEFault

Return

The query returns the step of the voltage change of the specified channel.

Usage example

Return default step value:

VOLT:STEP? DEF

0.10

By connecting a 10 Ω load and current set to 2 A and voltage to 10 V the first channel enters the CV mode of operation. Voltage is then decreased from 10 V in two steps to 6 V:

APPL CH1, 10,2

MEAS:CURR?

1.0

VOLT:STEP 2

VOLT DOWN

VOLT DOWN

MEAS:VOLT?

6.0

MEAS:CURR?

0.60

Related Commands

*SAV

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage

5.16.45. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:TRIGgered

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel]:TRIGgered[:AMPLitude]? [<query voltage>]

Description

This command programs the pending triggered voltage 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 VOLTage commands.

 

 

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<voltage>

NR2|Discrete

0 to maximum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The maximum value is dependent on the power module voltage rating. See Section 8.1

0.00

 

<query voltage>

Discrete

MIN|MAX

 

Return

Query the triggered voltage level presently programmed. If no triggered level is programmed, the VOLTage level is returned. VOLT:TRIG? MIN and VOLT:TRIG? MIN return the lowest and highest programmable triggered voltage levels.

Usage example

On the currently selected channel voltage will be set to 3.3V and current to 1A when INITiate command is executed:

VOLT:TRIG 3.3

CURR:TRIG 1

TRIG:SOUR IMM

INIT

Related Commands

ABORt

5.16.46. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE {<mode>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:MODE?

Description

This command determines what happens to the output voltage when the transient system is initiated and triggered:

  • FIXed – the output current remains at the immediate value
  • LIST – the output follows the list values when a trigger occurs.
  • STEP – the output goes to the triggered level when a trigger occurs.
  • FUNCgen – the output follows the function generator waveform when a trigger occurs.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<mode>

Discrete

FIXed|LIST|STEP|FUNCgen

FIXed

Return

The query command returns the voltage mode of the currently selected channel.

Usage example

VOLT:MODE?

LIST

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:LIST:VOLTage[:LEVel]

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:MODE

5.16.47. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce] {<source>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]?

Modules

 DCP  

Description

Use this command to define source for output voltage programming if channel support this option (use the SYSTem:CHANnel[:INFOrmation]:PROGram? to query channel programming capability).

A channel’s D/A converter controlled by CPU is used by default for voltage output programming. That source can be calibrated (see the CALibrate subsystem) and provide output within safe limits.

The external voltage programming could be used when fast interaction with an external process is required. For example, if tracking output of the connected D.U.T. (i.e. a power supply) is needed the BB3’s power module like DCP405 effectively becomes a pre-regulator keeping its output voltage in relation with changes of the D.U.T. output keeping constant difference between connected D.U.T input and output and in that way its max. power dissipation.

 

Max. D/A converter programmed voltage of 2.5 V would results with MAXimal voltage output regardless of the channel’s voltage range (see Section 8.1). Therefore if EXTernal programming source is selected, any voltage value higher then 2.5 V could produce unexpected results and eventually damage the power module and/or connected load.

To limit possible damage when programming source is set to EXTernal, the over-voltage protection (OVP) will be activated and set to MAXimum ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]) with protection delay time set to zero ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]). Further adjustment of OVP level and delay is also allowed (e.g. to decrease OVP level or increase delay time).

 

The enabled state is EXTernal (1); the disabled state is INTernal (0). Execution of this command also affects bit 13 (RPROG) of the Operation Instrument Isummary register (see Section 3.3.2) and activate dedicated LED indicatior (Rprog) on the module’s front panel.

Self-test operation initiated by *TST? command will reset voltage programming on all channels to the internal/local source.

If external programming source is selected the DIAGnostic[:INFOrmation]:ADC? Query returns 0.00 value for U_SET.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<source>

Discrete

INTernal|EXTernal

INTernal

Return

The query command returns 0 if the local (internal) voltage programming is selected, and 1 if the remote (external) sense is selected.

Usage example

VOLT:PROG EXT

VOLT:PROG?

1

Errors

-241,"Hardware missing"

312,"Cannot execute when the channels are coupled"

Related Commands

*TST

DIAGnostic[:INFOrmation]:ADC?

INSTrument:COUPle:TRACking

OUTPut:[:STATe]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?

SYSTem:CHANnel[:INFOrmation:PROGram?

5.16.48. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel] {<voltage>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection[:LEVel]?

Description

Set the over-voltage protection (OVP) value of the channel. When [:SOURce[<n>]] or [<n>] is omitted, the currently selected channel will be affected by this command. When the over-votlage protection function of the specified channel is enabled ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe), the output turns off automatically when the output voltage exceeds the over-voltage protection value currently set.

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped? command can be used to query whether over-voltage protection occurred on the selected channel.

 

An execution error -222,"Data out of range" will be generated when output voltage is controlled internally ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]) and OVP value is set below programmed output voltage ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage).

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<voltage>

NR2|Discrete

0 to maximum, MIN|DEF|MAX

The maximum value is dependent on the power module voltage rating. See Section 8.1

Return

Query the over-voltage protection (OVP) value of the selected channel.

Usage example

Set voltage protection to 10.2 V on the channel 1:

SOUR1:VOLT:PROT 10.2

Errors

-222,"Data out of range"

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:COUPle

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe

5.16.49. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] {<time>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]? [<query time>]

Description

This command sets the over-voltage protection delay. The over-voltage protection function will not be triggered on the selected output channel during the delay time. After the delay time has expired, the over-voltage protection function will be active.

This prevents momentary changes in output status from triggering the over-voltage protection function. Programmed values can range from 0 to 10 seconds. See also Section 8.1

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<time>

NR2|Discrete

0 – 10|DEFault

5 ms

 

<query time>

Discrete

DEFault

Return

The query command returns the programmed delay time.

Usage example

Get default OVP delay of 50 milliseconds:

VOLT:PROT:DEL? DEF

0.050

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

5.16.50. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe {<bool>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe?

Description

This command enables or disables the over-voltage protection (OVP) function. The enabled state is ON (1); the disabled state is OFF (0).

Power modules that do not have a dedicated over-voltage protection circuit can be programmed independently of output current level, entering the CV (constant voltage) mode of operation is used as a trigger to start OVP sequence. When delay time specified with the [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] command expired the output turns off and the Questionable Condition status register OCP bit 8 is set. An error tone will also follow if beeper is enabled (see SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe).

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped? command can be used to query whether over-voltage protection occurred on the selected channel.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<bool>

Boolean

ON|OFF|0|1

OFF

Return

The query command returns 0 if the voltage protection state is OFF, and 1 if the voltage protection state is ON.

Usage example

VOLT:PROT:STAT?

0

Related Commands

*SAV

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:DELay[:TIME]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped

SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe

5.16.51. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TRIPped?

Description

Query whether OVP occurred on the currently selected channel. When protection is tripped bit 8 (OVP) of the Questionable Instrument Isummary register will be set (see Section 3.4.2).

When channel’s output voltage is controlled remotely ([SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]) this protection will change voltage control back to INTernal source.

The OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar command can be send to clear OVP condition on the selected channel.

Return

This query returns a 1 if the protection circuit is tripped and a 0 if it is untripped.

Usage example

VOLT:PROT:TRIP?

0

VOLT:PROG?

0

Related Commands

OUTPut:PROTection:CLEar

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROGram[:SOURce]

5.16.52. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TYPE

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TYPE {<type>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:TYPE?

Modules

 DCP  

Description

Use this command to select one of the following types of over-voltage protection mechanism:

  • HW – on-board OVP triac crow-bar circuit is active with trip level set to about 3 % over output voltage set using the [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>} command.
  • SW – MCU is monitoring output voltage and compare it with trip level set using the [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel] command. If trip level is reached OVP will disable output when time set by [SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection:DELay[:TIME] command passed.

The HW OVP circuit will cause that output terminals be shorted, and that could damage one or both of the on-board fuses. If that happened be sure to use new fuse with the same current rating.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<type>

Discrete

HW|SW

SW

Return

The query command returns type of currenlty active OVP mechanism.

Usage example

VOLT:PROT:TYPE HW

Errors

-241,"Hardware missing"

Related Commands

*RST

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] {<voltage>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:POWer:PROTection[:LEVel]

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:PROTection:STATe

5.16.53. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:RAMP:DURation

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:RAMP:DURation {<duration>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:RAMP:DURation?

Description

Use this command to configures a constant rise of output voltage on the channel <n> within a set duration. The output voltage can be increased continuously within a 0 to 10 seconds with 1 ms step size.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<duration>

NR2

0 – 10

Return

The query command returns set duration in seconds of the output voltage start ramp.

Usage example

CURR:RAMP:DUR 0.5

Related Commands

[SOURce[<n>]]:CURRent:RAMP:DURation

5.16.54. SOURce:VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe

Syntax

SOURce:VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe {<range>} [, <channel>]

SOURce:VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe? [<channel>]

Modules

 MIO 

Description

This command selects a DC output voltage range on AOUT1 and OUT2 of the MIO168 module. Units are in volts.

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<range>

NR1

1 – 4

 

<channel>

Channel

(@n07), (@n08)

Return

The query returns the presently selected output voltage range.

Usage example

SOUR:VOLT:RANG 2

Errors

-241,"Hardware missing"

Related Commands

SOURCe:CURRent[:DC]:RANGe

5.16.55. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:SENSe[:SOURce]

Syntax

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:SENSe[:SOURce] {<source>}

[SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:SENSe[:SOURce]?

Modules

 DCP  

Description

This command enables or disables remote sensing. The enabled state is EXTernal (1); the disabled state is INTernal (0). Execution of this command also affects bit 12 (RSENSE) of the Operation Instrument Isummary register (see Section 3.3.2).

Self-test operation initiated by *TST? command will put remote sense on all channels into disable state.

When channels are not coupled together (INSTrument:COUPle:TRACking) this command turn on a dedicated LED indicator (Rsense) mounted on the power module’s front panel.

 

Remote sensing has no effect during CC (Constant Current) operation. Rsense indicator will not be affected if output state is off (OUTPut OFF command).

Parameters

Name

Type

Range

Default

<source>

Discrete

INTernal|EXTernal

INTernal

Return

The query command returns 0 if the internal sense is selected, and 1 if the remote (external) sense is selected.

Usage example

VOLT:SENS EXT

VOLT:SENS?

1

Errors

-241,"Hardware missing"

312,"Cannot execute when the channels are coupled"

Related Commands

*SAV

*TST

INSTrument:COUPle:TRACking

OUTPut:[:STATe]

SYSTem:CHANnel[:INFOrmation]:PROGram?

5.16.56. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:SLEW:FALLing

Not implemented yet

5.16.57. [SOURce[<n>]]:VOLTage:SLEW:RISing

Not implemented yet

 

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