Agilent Technologies E4356A Operating instructions

OPERATING &
PROGRAMMING GUIDE
Agilent Model E4356A
Telecommunications
DC Power Supply
Agilent Part No. 5964-8166
Microfiche No. 5964-8167
Printed in USA: August 1999

2
CERTIFICATION
Agilent Technologies Company certifies that this product met its published specifications at time of shipment from the
factory. Agilent Technologies further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National
Bureau of Standards, to the extent allowed by the Bureau’s calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other
International Standards Organization members.
WARRANTY
This Agilent Technologies hardware product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of three
years from date of delivery. Agilent Technologies software and firmware products, which are designated by Agilent
Technologies for use with a hardware product and when properly installed on that hardware product, are warranted not to
fail to execute their programming instructions due to defects in material and workmanship for a period of 90 days from date
of delivery. During the warranty period Agilent Technologies Company will, at its option, either repair or replace products
which prove to be defective. Agilent Technologies does not warrant that the operation of the software, firmware, or
hardware shall be uninterrupted or error free.
For warranty service, with the exception of warranty options, this product must be returned to a service facility designated
by Agilent Technologies. Customer shall prepay shipping charges by (and shall pay all duty and taxes) for products returned
to Agilent technologies for warranty service. Except for products returned to Customer from another country, Agilent
Technologies shall pay for return of products to Customer.
Warranty services outside the country of initial purchase are included in Agilent Technologies’ product price, only if
Customer pays Agilent Technologies international prices (defined as destination local currency price, or U.S. or Geneva
Export price).
If Agilent Technologies is unable, within a reasonable time to repair or replace any product to condition as warranted, the
Customer shall be entitled to a refund of the purchase price upon return of the product to Agilent Technologies.
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY
The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the Customer,
Customer-supplied software or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental
specifications for the product, or improper site preparation and maintenance. NO OTHER WARRANTY IS EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED. AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES
THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE THE CUSTOMER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES. AGILENT
TECHNOLOGIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY.
ASSISTANCE
The above statements apply only to the standard product warranty. Warranty options, extended support contracts, product
maintenance agreements and customer assistance agreements are also available. Contact your nearest Agilent
Technologies Sales and Service office for further information on Agilent Technologies’ full line of Support Programs.

3
Safety Summary
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this
instrument. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Agilent Technologies Company assumes no liability
for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
GENERAL.
This product is a Safety Class 1 instrument (provided with a protective earth terminal).
Any LEDs used in this product are Class 1 LEDs as per IEC 825-l.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
With the exceptions noted, all instruments are intended for indoor use in an installation category II, pollution degree 2 environment.
They are designed to operate at a maximum relative humidity of 95% and at altitudes of up to 2000 meters. Refer to the specifications
tables for the ac mains voltage requirements and ambient operating temperature range.
BEFORE APPLYING POWER.
Verify that the product is set to match the available line voltage and the correct fuse is installed.
GROUND THE INSTRUMENT.
To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet must be connected to an electrical ground. The instrument must be
connected to the ac power supply mains through a three-conductor power cable, with the third wire firmly connected to an electrical
ground (safety ground) at the power outlet. For instruments designed to be hard-wired to the ac power lines (supply mains), connect the
protective earth terminal to a protective conductor before any other connection is made. Any interruption of the protective (grounding)
conductor or disconnection of the protective earth terminal will cause a potential shock hazard that could result in personal injury. If the
instrument is to be energized via an external autotransformer for voltage reduction, be certain that the autotransformer common terminal
is connected to the neutral (earthed pole) of the ac power lines (supply mains).
FUSES.
Only fuses with the required rated current, voltage, and specified type (normal blow, time delay, etc.) should be used. Do not use repaired
fuses or short circuited fuseholders. To do so could cause a shock or fire hazard.
DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE.
Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.
KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS.
Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Component replacement and internal adjustments must be made by qualified
service personnel. Do not replace components with power cable connected. Under certain conditions, dangerous voltages may exist even
with the power cable removed. To avoid injuries, always disconnect power, discharge circuits and remove external voltage sources before
touching components.
DO NOT SERVICE OR ADJUST ALONE.
Do not attempt internal service or adjustment unless another person, capable of rendering first aid and resuscitation, is present.
DO NOT EXCEED INPUT RATINGS.
This instrument may be equipped with a line filter to reduce electromagnetic interference and must be connected to a properly grounded
receptacle to minimize electric shock hazard. Operation at line voltages or frequencies in excess of those stated on the data plate may
cause leakage currents in excess of 5.0 mA peak.
DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS OR MODIFY INSTRUMENT.
Because of the danger of introducing additional hazards, do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the
instrument. Return the instrument to an Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Office for service and repair to ensure that safety features
are maintained.
Instruments which appear damaged or defective should be made inoperative and secured against unintended operation until they can be
repaired by qualified service personnel.

4
Safety Symbol - Definitions
Symbol Description Symbol Description
Direct current Terminal for Line conductor on permanently
installed equipment
Alternating current Caution, risk of electric shock
Both direct and alternating current Caution, hot surface
Three-phase alternating current Caution (refer to accompanying documents)
Earth (ground) terminal In position of a bi-stable push control
Protective earth (ground) terminal Out position of a bi-stable push control
Frame or chassis terminal On (unit)
Terminal for Neutral conductor on
permanently installed equipment Off (unit)
Terminal is at earth potential
(Used for measurement and control
circuits designed to be operated
with one terminal at earth
potential.)
Standby (unit)
Units with this symbol are not completely
disconnected from ac mains when this switch is
off. To completely disconnect the unit from ac
mains, either disconnect the power cord or have
a qualified electrician install an external switch.
The WARNING sign denotes a hazard.
It calls attention to a procedure,
practice, or the like, which, if not
correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in personal injury. Do not
proceed beyond a WARNING sign
until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
The CAUTION sign denotes a hazard. It calls
attention to an operating procedure, or the like,
which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could
result in damage to or destruction of part or all of the
product. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION sign
until the indicated conditions are fully understood
and met.
Acoustic Noise Information
Herstellerbescheinigung
Diese Information steht im Zusammenhang mit den Anforderungen der Maschinenläminformationsverordnung vom 18
Januar 1991.
* Schalldruckpegel Lp <70 dB(A) * Am Arbeitsplatz * Normaler Betrieb * Nach EN 27779 (Typprufung).
Manufacturer’s Declaration
This statement is provided to comply with the requirements of the German Sound Emission Directive, from 18 January
1991.
* Sound Pressure Lp <70 dB(A) *At Operator Position * Normal Operation * According to EN 27779 (Type Test).

5
Declaration Page
Printing History
The edition and current revision of this manual are indicated below. Reprints of this manual containing minor corrections
and updates may have the same printing date. Revised editions are identified by a new printing date. A revised edition
incorporates all new or corrected material since the previous printing date. Changes to the manual occurring between
revisions are covered by change sheets shipped with the manual. In some cases, the changes apply to specific instruments.
Instructions provided on the change sheet will indicate if a particular change applies only to certain instruments.
Copyright 1999 Agilent Technologies Company Edition 1 - August, 1999
This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this document
may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated into another language without the prior consent of Agilent Technologies
Company. The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014
Manufacturer’s Name: Agilent Technologies Company
Manufacturer’s Address: 150 Green Pond Road
Rockaway, New Jersey 07866
U.S.A.
declares that the Product
Product Name: Telecommunications DC Power Supply
Model Number: ’ E4356A
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 348:1978 / HD 401S1: 19811
EMC: CISPR 11:1990 / EN 55011:1991 - Group 1 Class B
IEC 801-2:1991 / EN 50082-1:1992 - 4 kV CD, 8 kV AD
IEC 801-3:1984 / EN 50082-1:1992 - 3 V / m
IEC 801-4:1988 / EN 50082-1:1992 - 0.5 kV Signal Lines
1 kV Power Lines
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive
73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and carries the CE-marking accordingly.
Note 1: The product family was introduced prior to 12/93.
New Jersey August 1999
Location Date Bruce Krueger / Quality Manager
European Contact: Your local Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Office or Agilent Technologies GmbH,
Department TRE, Herrenberger Strasse 130, D-71034 Boeblingen (FAX:[phone])

6
Table of Contents
Safety Summary 3
Safety Symbol - Definitions 4
Acoustic Noise Information 4
Declaration Page 5
Printing History 5
Table of Contents 6
1 - GENERAL INFORMATION 13
Introduction 13
Safety Considerations 13
Options 14
Accessories 14
Operator Replaceable Parts List 14
Description 15
Front Panel Programming 15
Remote Programming 15
Analog Programming 15
Output Characteristic 16
Output Ranges 16
Downprogramming 16
2 - INSTALLATION 17
Inspection 17
Damage 17
Packaging Material 17
Items Supplied 17
Location and Temperature 18
Bench Operation 18
Rack Mounting 18
Temperature Performance 18
Input Power Source 18
Installing the Power Cord 18
VXI plug&play Power Products Instrument Drivers 20
Downloading and Installing the Driver 20
Accessing Online Help 20
3 - TURN-ON CHECKOUT 21
Introduction 21
Preliminary Checkout 21
Power-On Checkout 21
Using the Keypad 22
Shifted Keys 22
Backspace Key 22
Output Checkout 22
Checking the Voltage Function 22
Checking the Current Function 23
Checking The Save And Recall Functions 24
Determining The GPIB Address 24
In Case Of Trouble 24
Line Fuse 24
Error Messages 25
Selftest Errors 25

7
Power-On Error Messages 25
Checksum Errors. 26
Runtime Error Messages 26
4 - USER CONNECTIONS 27
Rear Panel Connections 27
Load Wire Selection 27
Analog Connector 27
Connecting the Power supply to the Load 28
Output Isolation 28
Capacitive Loads 28
Inductive Loads 29
Battery Charging 29
Local Voltage Sensing 30
Remote Voltage Sensing 30
Setting Up Remote Sense Operation 30
Connecting the Sense Leads 30
CV Regulation 30
Output Rating 30
Output Noise 30
OVP Considerations 31
Stability 31
Operating Configurations 31
Connecting One Power supply to a Single Load 31
Connecting One Power supply To Multiple Loads 32
Connecting Units in Auto-Parallel 32
Connecting Units in Series 33
External Voltage Control 34
Controller Connections 35
Stand-Alone Connections 35
Linked Connections 35
5 - FRONT PANEL OPERATION 37
Introduction 37
Getting Acquainted 37
Programming The Output 40
Establishing Initial Conditions 40
Programming Voltage 40
Programming Overvoltage Protection 40
Programming Current 41
Programming Overcurrent Protection 42
CV Mode vs. CC Mode 42
Unregulated Operation 42
Saving and Recalling Operating States 43
Turn-On Conditions 43
Setting The GPIB Address 43
Types of Power supply GPIB Addresses 43
Changing the Power supply GPIB Address 44
6 - REMOTE PROGRAMMING 45
Prerequisites for Remote Programming 45
External Documents 45
SCPI References 45
GPIB References 45
GPIB Capabilities of the Power supply 46

8
Introduction To SCPI 46
Conventions 46
Types of SCPI Commands 46
Traversing the Command Tree 47
Active Header Path 47
The Effect of Optional Headers 47
Moving Among Subsystems 48
Including Common Commands 48
SCPI Queries 48
Value Coupling 48
Types of SCPI Messages 49
Structure of a SCPI Message 49
SCPI Data Formats 51
Numerical Data 51
Boolean Data 51
Character Data 51
SCPI Command Completion 52
Programming Examples 52
Programming Voltage and Current 53
Programming Protection Circuits 53
Changing Outputs by Trigger 53
Saving and Recalling States 53
Writing to the Display 54
Programming Status 54
Detecting Events via SRO 54
Reading Specific Registers 54
Programming the Digital I/O Port 55
System Considerations 55
Setting the GPIB Address 55
Changing the Power supply GPIB Address 55
Assigning the GPIB Address In Programs 56
DOS Drivers 57
Types of Drivers 57
Error Handling 57
Agilent BASIC Controllers 57
Sample Program Code 57
SCPI Confirmed Commands 62
NON-SCPI Commands 62
7 - LANGUAGE DICTIONARY 63
Introduction 63
Parameters 63
Related Commands 63
Order of Presentation 63
Common Commands 63
Subsystem Commands 63
Description Of Common Commands 64
*CLS 64
*ESE 65
*ESR? 65
*IDN? 66
*OPC 66
*OPC? 67
*OPT? 67
*RCL 68
*RST 69

9
*SAV 69
*SRE 70
*STB? 70
*TRG 71
*TST? 71
*WAI 71
Description Of Subsystem Commands 72
ABOR 72
Calibration Commands 72
Current Subsystem 73
CURR CURR:TRIG 73
CURR:PROT:STAT 73
Digital Subsystem 74
DIG:DATA 74
Display Subsystem 74
DISP 74
DISP:MODE 75
DISP:TEXT 75
Initiate Subsystem 76
INIT INIT:CONT 76
Measure Subsystem 76
MEAS:CURR? MEAS:VOLT? 76
Output Subsystem 77
OUTP 77
OUTP:PROT:CLE OUTP:PROT:DEL 77
OUTP:REL 78
OUTP:REL:POL 78
Status Subsystem 78
STAT:PRES 78
Status Operation Registers 79
STAT:OPER? 79
STAT:OPER:COND? 79
STAT:OPER:ENAB 79
STAT:OPER:NTR STAT:OPER:PTR 79
Status Questionable Registers 80
STAT:OUES? 80
STAT:QUES:COND? 81
STAT:QUES:ENAB 81
STAT:QUES:NTR STAT:QUES:PTR 81
System Commands 82
SYST:ERR? 82
SYST:LANG 82
SYST:VERS? 82
Trigger Subsystem 83
TRIG 83
TRIG:SOUR 83
Voltage Subsystem 83
VOLT VOLT:TRIG 83
VOLT:PROT 84
Command Summary 85
Programming Parameters 86
8 - STATUS REPORTING 87
Power supply Status Structure 87
Operation Status Group 87
Register Functions 87

10
Register Commands 87
Questionable Status Group 89
Register Functions 89
Register Commands 89
Standard Event Status Group 89
Register Functions 89
Register Commands 89
Status Byte Register 90
The MSS Bit 90
The RQS Bit 90
Output Queue 90
Service Request Enable Register 90
Inhibit/Fault Indicator 90
RI (Remote Inhibit) 90
DFI (Discrete Fault Indicator) 90
Initial Conditions At Power On 90
Status Registers 91
The PON (Power-On) Bit 91
Status Register Programming Examples 91
Determining the Cause of a Service Interrupt 91
Servicing an Operation Status Mode Event 92
Adding More Operation Events 92
Servicing Questionable Status Events 92
Monitoring Both Phases of a Status Transition 92
A - SPECIFICATIONS 93
B - CALIBRATION 97
Introduction 97
Equipment Required 97
General Procedure 97
Parameters Calibrated 97
Test Setup 97
Front Panel Calibration 98
Entering the Calibration Values 98
Saving the Calibration Constants 98
Disabling the Calibration Mode 98
Changing the Calibration Password 98
Recovering From Calibration Problems 100
Calibration Error Messages 100
Calibration Over The GPIB 100
Calibration Example 100
Calibration Language Dictionary 101
CAL:CURR 101
CAL:CURR:LEV 101
CAL:PASS 101
CAL:SAVE 101
CAL:STAT 102
CAL:VOLT 102
CAL:VOLT:LEV 102
CAL:VOLT:PROT 102
BASIC Calibration Program 103
C - VERIFICATION 105
Introduction 105

11
Test Equipment Required 105
List of Equipment 105
Current Monitoring Resistor 105
Performing The Tests 106
General Measurement Techniques 106
Programming the Power supply 106
Order of Tests 106
Turn-on Checkout 106
Voltage Programming and Readback Accuracy 106
Current Programming and Readback Accuracy 107
D - ERROR MESSAGES 109
Power supply Hardware Error Messages 109
Calibration Error Messages 109
System Error Messages 109
E - LINE VOLTAGE CONVERSION 111
F - DIGITAL PORT FUNCTIONS 113
Digital Connector 113
Fault/Inhibit Operation 113
Changing The Port Configuration 115
Digital I/O Operation 116
Relay Link Operation 116
G - COMPATIBILITY LANGUAGE 119
Introduction 119
Parallel Polling 119
INDEX 123
AGILENT SALES AND SUPPORT OFFICES 131

General Information 13
1
General Information
Introduction
The following Getting Started Map will help you find the information you need to complete the specific task that you want
to accomplish. Refer to the table of contents or index of each guide for a complete list of the information contained within.
Table 1-1. Getting Started Map
Task Where to find information
General information
Capabilities and characteristics Chapter 1
Installing the unit
Location
Line connections
Chapter 2
Checking out the unit
Verifying proper operation
Using the front panel
Chapter 3
Making Connections
Load connections
Computer connections
Application Information
Chapter 4
Using the front panel
Front panel keys
Front panel examples
Chapter 5
Using the programming interface
GPIB interface Chapter 6
Programming the unit using SCPI (and COMPatibility) commands
SCPI commands
SCPI programming examples
SCPI language dictionary
Chapters 7 and 8 for SCPI commands.
Appendix G for COMPatibility commands
Installing the Agilent VXI plug&play instrument driver
NOTE: The driver must be installed on your pc to access the on-line
information. Drivers are available on the web at www.ag.com/go/drivers.
Chapter 2
Safety Considerations
This power supply is a Safety Class 1 instrument, which means it has a protective earth terminal. That terminal must be
connected to earth ground through a power source equipped with a 3-wire ground receptacle. Refer to the Safety Summary
page at the beginning of this guide for general safety information. Before installation or operation, check the power supply
and review this guide for safety warnings and instructions. Safety warnings for specific procedures are located at
appropriate places in the guide.

General Information14
Options Table 1-2. List of Options
Option Description
Standard Input power 230 Vac, nominal
200 Input power 200 Vac, nominal
831 Power cord, 12 AWG, UL listed, CSA certified, without plug
832 Power cord, 4 mm2, harmonized, without plug
834 Power cord, 10 AWG, UL listed, CSA certified, without plug
841 Power cord, 12 AWG, UL listed, CSA certified, with NEMA 6-20P 20A/250V plug
842 Power cord, 4 mm2, harmonized, with IEC 309 32A/220V plug
844 Power cord, 10 AWG, UL listed, CSA certified, with NEMA L6-30P-30A/250V locking plug
908 Rack mount kit (Agilent 5062-3977) Support rails (E3663A) are required.
909 Rack mount kit with handles (Agilent 5062-3983) Support rails (E3663A) are required.
0BN Service addendum with extra User’s Guide
Accessories Table 1-3. List of Accessories
Description Agilent No. Agilent No.
GPIB cable (all models)
0.5 meters (1.6 ft) 10833D
1.0 meter (3.3 ft) 10833A
2.0 meters (6.6 ft) 10833B
4.0 meters ( 13 .2 ft) 10833C
Serial link cable 2.0 meters (6.6 ft) 5080-2148
Accessory slide mount kit 1494-0059
Operator Replaceable Parts List
Table 1-4. Operator Replaceable Parts List
Description Agilent Part
No. Description Agilent Part No.
Cable assembly, GPIB
Cable assembly, serial link
Collar, rotary output control
Cover, ac input safety
(see Table 1-3)
(see Table 1-3)
5040-l700
5040- 1676
Power cord assembly
Rack mount kit
Resistor, calibration
(see Table 1-2)
(see Table 1-2)
(Appendix B)
Cover, dc output
Flatwasher, ac input safety cover
Foot, cabinet
Fuse, power 25A, 250V
(this is an internal fuse).
5040- 1674
3050-1053
5041-8801
2110-0849
Screw, ac input safety cover
(M4.0 x 60 mm long)
Screw, carrying strap
(M5x0.8x10 mm)
0515-0156
0515-1384
Knob, rotary output control
Lockwasher, ac input safety cover
Lockwasher, output bus bar, 1/4 spring
0370-1091
2190-0484
3050-1690
Screw, output bus bar, 1/4-20x1/2
Screw, outer cover, (M5 x 0.8 mm)
Screw, output sense terminal
(M3x0.5x8mm)
2940-0103
0515-0073
0515-0104
Agilent 59510/11A Relay Accessories
Agilent Series 667xA Service Manual
Agilent E4356A Service Addendum
5957-6382
5961-2583
5964-8170
Slide mount kit
Standoff, GPIB
(see Table 1-3)
0380-0643
Nut, output bus bar, hex 1/4-20x1/2
Nut, power ground, hex w/lw 3/8x32
Plug, analog connector (7-terminal)
Plug, digital connector (4-terminal)
2950-0084
0590-0305
1252-3698
1252-1488
Terminal, crimp, ac power cord
L or N terminal
Gnd terminal
0362-0681
0362-0207

General Information 15
Description
The Agilent E4356A is a unipolar, GPIB programmable power supply, which is programmable locally from the front panel
or remotely via a rear-panel analog control port. Operational features include:
■ Constant voltage (CV) or constant current (CC) output over the rated output range.
■ Built-in overvoltage (OV), overcurrent (OC), and overtemperature (OT) protection.
■ Automatic turn-on selftest.
■ Pushbutton nonvolatile storage and recall of up to 5 operating states.
■ Local or remote sensing of output voltage.
■ Auto-parallel operation for increased total current.
■ Series operation for increased total voltage.
■ Analog input for remote programming of voltage and current.
■ Voltage output for external monitoring of output current.
■ User calibration from the front panel.
Front Panel Programming
The front panel has both rotary (RPG) and keypad controls for setting the output voltage and current. The panel display
provides digital readouts of the output voltage and current. Other front panel controls permit:
■ Enabling or disabling the output.
■ Setting the overvoltage protection (OVP) trip voltage.
■ Enabling or disabling the overcurrent protection (OCP) feature.
■ Saving and recalling operating states.
■ Setting the GPIB address.
■ Reading GPIB error message codes.
■ Calibrating the power supply, including changing the calibration protection password.
Remote Programming
The power supply may be remotely programmed via the GPIB bus and/or from an analog input port. GPIB programming is
with SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) commands that make the power supply programs
compatible with those of other GPIB instruments. (A software Compatibility mode also permits programming in the
command set of the Agilent 6030xA Autoranging Series.) In addition to control functions, SCPI programming permits
writing to the front panel LCD and complete calibration functions. Power supply status registers permit remote monitoring
of the following conditions:
■ Overvoltage, overcurrent, overtemperature, and unregulated states.
■ Operating mode (constant voltage or constant current).
■ State of the RI (remote inhibit) input signal.
■ Power-on status (PON).
■ Status of the output queue (QYE).
■ Pending triggers (WTG).
■ GPIB interface programming errors (CME, DDE, and EXE).
■ Calibration state (enabled or disabled).
The status registers can be programmed to generate an output fault signal (FLT) upon the occurrence of one or more
selected status events.
Analog Programming
The power supply has an analog port for remote programming. The output voltage and/or current of the power supply may
be controlled by individual dc programming voltages applied to this port. The port also provides a monitor output that
supplies a dc voltage proportional to the output current.

General Information16
Output Characteristic
The power supply can operate in either CV (constant voltage) or CC (constant current) over its output voltage and current
ratings (see Figure 1-l). Although the power supply can operate in either mode, it is designed as a constant voltage source.
This means that the unit turns on in constant voltage mode with the output voltage rising to its Vset value. There is no
command for constant current operation. The only way to turn the unit on in constant current mode is by placing a short
across the output and then enabling or turning the output on.
Note that the power supply cannot be programmed to operate in a specific mode. After initial turn-on, the operating mode of
the unit will be determined by the voltage setting (Vs), the current setting (Is), and the load impedance (RL). In Figure 1-1,
operating point 1 is defined by the load line cutting the operating locus in the constant-voltage region. This region defines
the CV mode. Operating point 2 is defined by the load line cutting the operating locus in the constant-current region. This
region defines the CC mode.
Appendix A lists the specifications and supplemental characteristics.
80V
70V
26A 30A
Vout
Iout
RL2
RL1
Is
Vs
Figure 1-1. Output Characteristic Curve
Output Ranges
Figure 1-1 shows two output ranges: 80V, 26A and 70V, 30A. The step in the output characteristic indicates that the power
supply cannot simultaneously output 80V and 30A. No separate command is required to select a range, the power supply
automatically selects one of the operating ranges based on the last parameter (either voltage or current) that is programmed.
For example, if you program 80V and 30A, the power supply will select the 70V, 30A range based on the last parameter
that was programmed: 30A.
Downprogramming
The power supply can sink current for more rapid down programming in the CV mode. This is an uncharacterized current-
sinking area that provides a limited downprogramming capability.

Installation 17
2
Installation
Inspection
Damage
When you receive your power supply, inspect it for any obvious damage that may have occurred during shipment. If there is
damage, notify the shipping carrier and the nearest Agilent Sales and Support Office immediately. Warranty information is
printed in the front of this guide.
Packaging Material
Until you have checked out the power supply save the shipping carton and packing materials in case the power supply has to
be returned to Agilent Technologies. If you return the power supply for service, attach a tag identifying the model number
and the owner. Also include a brief description of the problem.
Items Supplied
In addition to this manual, check that the following items in Table 2-1 are included with your power supply (see Table 1-6
for part numbers):
Table 2-1. Items Supplied
Power cord Your power supply was shipped with a power cord appropriate for your location. The cord may or may
not be terminated in a power plug (see "Options" in Chapter 1). If the cord is not included, contact your
nearest Agilent Sales and Support Office (see end of this guide ) to obtain the correct cord. These
models also include a power input safety cover with strain relief connector. It is required to secure the
power cord to the power supply.
Analog
connector A 7-terminal analog plug (see Table 1-4) that connects to the back of the unit. Analog connections are described in Chapter 4.
Digital
connector A 4-terminal digital plug (see Table 1-4) that connects to the back of the unit. Digital connections are described in "Appendix D - Digital Port Functions"
Serial cable A 2-meter cable (see “Accessories” in Chapter 1) that connects to the control bus (next to the GPIB
connector). This cable is used to serially connect multiple power supplies as described under "Controller
Connections" in Chapter 4.
Output
hardware Output hardware (screws with nuts and lockwashers) for securing your load wires to the output bus bars
(see Table 1-4).
Guide change
page If applicable, change sheets may be included with this guide. If there are change sheets, make the
indicated corrections in this guide.

Installation18
Location and Temperature
Bench Operation
The Table A-2 in Appendix A gives the dimensions of your power supply. The cabinet has plastic feet that are shaped to
ensure self-alignment when stacked with other Agilent System II cabinets. The feet may be removed for rack mounting.
Your power supply must be installed in a location that allows sufficient space at the sides and rear of the cabinet for
adequate air circulation. Minimum clearances are 1 inch (25 mm) along the sides. Do not block the fan exhaust at the rear of
the unit.
Rack Mounting
The power supply can be mounted in a standard l9-inch rack panel or cabinet. Rack mounting kits are available as Option
908 or 909 (with handles). Installation instructions are included with each rack mounting kit.
This power supply requires instrument support rails for non-stationary installations. These are
normally ordered with the cabinet and are not included with the rack mounting kits.
Temperature Performance
A variable-speed fan cools the unit by drawing air through the sides and exhausting it out the back. Using Agilent rack
mount or slides will not impede the flow of air. The temperature performance is as follows:
The unit operates without loss of performance within the temperature range of 0 °C to 45 °C.
Input Power Source
Do not apply power to the power supply until directed to do so in Chapter 3.
Check the line label on the rear of your unit and verify that the voltage shown there
corresponds to the nominal line voltage of your power source. If it does not, see Appendix E - "Line
Voltage Conversion" for instructions on changing the power supply's line voltage configuration.
Note This product requires single-phase input voltage.
You can operate your unit from a nominal 200 V or a 230 V single-phase power source, or from the line-to-line voltage of a
208-volt, 3-phase source. The proper source is indicated on the rear label ( , Figure 2-2). See "AC Input
Ratings" in Table A-2 for the voltage and frequency range for each type of power source.
Note The power source must be a dedicated line with no other devices drawing current from it.
The line fuse is located inside the power supply. Table 1-4 identifies the replacement fuse. See "In Case of Trouble" in
Chapter 3 for instructions on fuse replacement.
Installing the Power Cord
Installation of the power cord must be done by a qualified electrician and in accordance with local
electrical codes.

Installation 19
The power cord supplied with power supply may or may not include a power plug (see "Options" in Chapter l) at one end of
the cord. Terminating connections and a ground lug are attached to the other end of the cord. See Figure 2-2 and proceed as
follows:
1. If they are not already in place, position the strain relief connector ), safety cover , rubber boot , and
connector nut on the power cord .
2. Secure the ground wire to the chassis earth ground stud.
3. For single-phase operation, connect the neutral wire to the N input terminal and the line wire to the Linput
terminal (this line is fused inside the unit).
4. For line-to-line operation from a three-phase source as shown in Figure 2-3, connect one phase to the Ninput
terminal and another phase to the Linput terminal (this line is fused inside the unit).
Note The N terminal is not internally grounded.
5. Position the safety cover over the power input terminals and tighten the cover screws and strain relief connector
screws .
Figure 2-2. Connecting Power Cord
Figure 2-3. Connection to a 3-Phase Line

Installation20
VXI plug&play Power Products Instrument Drivers
VXI plug&play Power Products instrument drivers for Microsoft Windows 95 and Windows NT are now available on the
Web at http://www.agilent.com/find/drivers. These instrument drivers provide a high-level programming interface to your
Agilent Power Products instrument. VXI plug&play instrument drivers are an alternative to programming your instrument
with SCPI command strings. Because the instrument driver’s function calls work together on top of the VISA I/O library,
a single instrument driver can be used with multiple application environments.
Supported Applications System Requirements
ñAgilent VEE
ñMicrosoft Visual BASIC
ñMicrosoft Visual C/C++
ñBorland C/C++
ñNational Instruments LabVIEW
ñNational Instruments LabWindows/CVI
The VXI plug&play Power Products instrument driver
complies with the following:
ñMicrosoft Windows 95
ñMicrosoft Windows NT 4.0
ñHP VISA revision F.01.02
ñNational Instruments VISA 1.1
Downloading and Installing the Driver
NOTE: Before installing the VXI plug&play instrument driver, make sure that you have one of the supported
applications installed and running on your computer.
1. Access Agilent Technologies’ Web site at http://www.agilent.com/find/drivers.
2. Select the instrument for which you need the driver.
3. Click on the driver, either Windows 95 or Windows NT, and download the executable file to your pc.
4. Locate the file that you downloaded from the Web. From the Start menu select Run <path>:\agxxxx.exe - where
<path> is the directory path where the file is located, and agxxxx is the instrument driver that you downloaded .
5. Follow the directions on the screen to install the software. The default installation selections will work in most
cases. The readme.txt file contains product updates or corrections that are not documented in the on-line help. If
you decide to install this file, use any text editor to open and read it.
6. To use the VXI plug&play instrument driver, follow the directions in the VXI plug&play online help under
“Introduction to Programming”.
Accessing Online Help
A comprehensive online programming reference is provided with the driver. It describes how to get started using the
instrument driver with Agilent VEE, LabVIEW, and LabWindows. It includes complete descriptions of all function calls
as well as example programs in C/C++ and Visual BASIC.
ñTo access the online help when you have chosen the default Vxipnp start folder, click on the Start button and select
Programs | Vxipnp | Agxxxx Help (32-bit).
- where Agxxxx is the instrument driver.