Agilent Technologies Agilent 35900E User manual

Agilent Technologies
Agilent 35900E
Dual Channel Interface
User Manual

User Manual
Notices
© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2005
No part of this manual may be reproduced in
any form or by any means (including elec-
tronic storage and retrieval or translation
into a foreign language) without prior agree-
ment and written consent from Agilent
Technologies, Inc. as governed by United
States and international copyright laws.
Manual Part Number
35900-90407
Replaces Service Manual 35900-90410
Edition
Second edition, August 2005
First edition, May 2000
Printed in USA
Agilent Technologies, Inc.
2850 Centerville Road
Wilmington, DE 19808-1610 USA
Warranty
The material contained in this docu-
ment is provided “as is,” and is sub-
ject to being changed, without notice,
in future editions. Further, to the max-
imum extent permitted by applicable
law, Agilent disclaims all warranties,
either express or implied, with regard
to this manual and any information
contained herein, including but not
limited to the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a par-
ticular purpose. Agilent shall not be
liable for errors or for incidental or
consequential damages in connec-
tion with the furnishing, use, or per-
formance of this document or of any
information contained herein. Should
Agilent and the user have a separate
written agreement with warranty
terms covering the material in this
document that conflict with these
terms, the warranty terms in the sep-
arate agreement shall control.
Safety Notices
CAUTION
A CAUTION notice denotes a haz-
ard. It calls attention to an operat-
ing procedure, practice, or the like
that, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in damage
to the product or loss of important
data. Do not proceed beyond a
CAUTION notice until the indicated
conditions are fully understood and
met.
WARNING
A WARNING notice denotes a
hazard. It calls attention to an
operating procedure, practice, or
the like that, if not correctly per-
formed or adhered to, could result
in personal injury or death. Do not
proceed beyond a WARNING
notice until the indicated condi-
tions are fully understood and
met.

User Information Manual 3
Contents
1Introduction
Features 8
Independent Analog-to-Digital Converters 9
Real-Time Control 9
Remote control bus 9
Digital (TTL I/O) ports 9
Instrument Control Ports 10
Host Computer Communication 10
Front Panel 10
Start/Stop push buttons 10
Run status indicators 10
Hardware monitoring indicators 11
Important Safety Warnings 11
Electrostatic discharge is a threat to 35900 electronics 11
Safety and Regulatory Certifications 12
Information 12
Symbols 13
Electromagnetic compatibility 14
Cleaning 14
Recycling the Product 14

4User Information Manual
2Setup
To Unpack the Unit 16
Checking Parts and Accessories 16
Line Voltage 16
Configuration Switch 17
3 Computer Connection
Handling the MIO Card 20
Connecting to a TCP/IP Network 20
Configuring a GPIB/RS-232 MIO Card 22
Configuration for GPIB operations 22
Configuration for RS-232 operation 24
Installing the communication card 25
Connecting to a Host Computer Using GPIB or RS-232 Communications 26
To connect GPIB/RS-232 communications 26
4 Instrument Connection
Analog Input (Signal) Connection 28
Remote Control Connection 30
Digital I/O Connection 32
Instrument Control Port Connection 35
5Startup
Pre-Run Checklist 38
35900 Power Up 38
Verify 35900 is Ready for Operation 39
In Case of Difficulty 39

User Information Manual 5
6PartsReplacement
Remove/Replace the Top Cover 42
Remove/Replace the Front Panel 43
Remove the MIO Bracket 44
Remove the Connector Board 44
Remove/Replace the Mother Board 45
Remove/Install the SIMM Memory Boards 45
Remove/Install Power Supply Assembly 47
7 Instrument Parts Breakdown
Replacement Parts: Covers and Electronics 50
Parts Breakdown for the 35900 Mother Board 52
ACables
Analog Signal Cables 56
Remote Control 58
Bottle Number Cables 59

6User Information Manual

7
Agilent 35900E Dual Channel Interface
User Manual
Agilent Technologies
1
Introduction
Features 8
Independent Analog-to-Digital Converters 9
Real-Time Control 9
Instrument Control Ports 10
Host Computer Communication 10
Front Panel 10
Important Safety Warnings 11
Safety and Regulatory Certifications 12
Cleaning 14
Recycling the Product 14
The Agilent 35900 is a dual-channel run buffered interface that connects
analytical instruments to Agilent data systems. It converts the analog signal
from analytical instruments to digital data and transmits it to the host
computer for further processing. The 35900 is intended for use with both
Agilent and non-Agilent manufactured laboratory instruments.
The 35900 uses Modular Input/Output (MIO) for host communications. MIO is
a standard designed to allow for maximum flexibility in peripheral to host
communications. The 35900 has an MIO slot on the rear panel for plug-in MIO
cards. The TCP/IP LAN MIO card connects the 35900 to the networked Agilent
data systems. The GPIB/RS-232 MIO card connects the 35900 to Agilent data
systems using the GPIB functionality.

8User Manual
1Introduction
Features
The 35900 (Figure 1) features include the following:
•Data buffering
•Independent analog-to-digital (A/D) converters
•Real-time control
•Instrument control ports
•Host communication
•Front panel indicators that show run status, interface activity, etc.
•Compatibility with Agilent data systems
•External power adapter with 24V DC output
Figure 1 Agilent 35900 dual channel interface
Line Switch

Introduction 1
User Manual 9
Independent Analog-to-Digital Converters
The analog-to-digital channels provide 24-bit analog-to-digital conversion of
up to two independent analog signals. The analog inputs can either be totally
asynchronous (have no relationship at all to each other) or synchronous
(separate signals, but logically related to the same START reference). To allow
asynchronous operation, each channel has separate Start/Stop switches,
status indicators, and controllable digital I/O. The analog input signal is
digitized by a continuously integrating A/D converter. This means that the
input signal is continuously applied to the converter's input, and because of
that, no portion of the signal is ever lost due to input multiplexing or the
sampling process.
Real-Time Control
The 35900 provides a set of real-time control functions for a host computer
system. These can be separated into two groups:
•Remote Control Bus
•Digital (TTL I/O) Ports
Remote control bus
The Remote Control Bus is a hardware interface that provides a set of defined
signals most frequently encountered in the laboratory environment. These
signals include START, STOP, READY and START REQUEST. The 35900 has
one Remote Bus per channel to allow for asynchronous operation. These
connectors are 9-pin "D-Type" female connectors each having eight
bidirectional (input/output) signals.
Digital (TTL I/O) ports
Each channel has a dedicated TTL I/O connector with 16 signal lines. Of the
16, eight are bidirectional configurable as inputs or outputs (for such
functions as valve control) and the remaining eight lines are input-only signals
(for such functions as bottle numbers).

10 User Manual
1Introduction
Instrument Control Ports
There are two RS-232 ports (one for each channel) that may be used to
interface with RS-232 compatible lab instruments such as certain
autosamplers, balances, GCs, etc.
Line protocols and operating modes for RS-232 communication are configured
via commands from the host computer.
Host Computer Communication
The 35900 has an MIO slot for host communications. There are presently two
MIO cards that can be used with the 35900. Option 010 is used for LAN
(TCP/IP) communications. Option 011 (or accessory G1847A) is used for
RS-232 and GPIB communication.
Front Panel
The front panel of the 35900 has two buttons and three indicator lights for
each channel. There are also four indicator lights at the bottom of the panel to
convey general information about the state of the 35900 interface.
Start/Stop push buttons
Each channel has START and STOP push buttons that may be used to manually
start and stop analytical runs. These push buttons can be individually enabled
or disabled by the host computer software controlling the 35900.
Run status indicators
Each channel has three indicator LEDs (light emitting diodes).
READY—Indicates there is no current activity on the channel and it is ready to
begin a chromatographic run.
RUN—This light indicates a run is in progress on that channel.

Introduction 1
User Manual 11
NOT READY—This light indicates the channel cannot start another run until
other events are completed.
Hardware monitoring indicators
There are four indicator LEDs on the bottom of the front panel that display the
status of the 35900.
ACTIVE—Indicates that there is data present in the interface that will be lost if
the 35900's power is turned off.
COMM—This light indicates that the 35900 is communicating with the host
computer.
FAULT—This light indicates that a nonrecoverable error occurred.
POWER—This light indicates that power is applied to the instrument and that
the LINE switch is turned on.
Important Safety Warnings
Before moving on, there are several important safety notices that you should
always keep in mind when using the 35900 Dual Channel Interface.
Electrostatic discharge is a threat to 35900 electronics
The printed circuit (PC) boards in the 35900 can be damaged by electrostatic
discharge. Do not touch any of the boards unless it is absolutely necessary. If
you must handle them, wear a grounded wrist strap and take other antistatic
precautions. Wear a grounded wrist strap any time you must remove the 35900
right side cover.
WARNING If the power cord insulation is cut or worn, the cord must be replaced. Contact your
Agilent service representative.

12 User Manual
1Introduction
Safety and Regulatory Certifications
The 35900 Dual Channel Interface conforms to the following safety standards:
•International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC): 61010–1
•EuroNorm (EN): 61010–1
The 35900 Dual Channel Interface conforms to the following regulations
on Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Radio Frequency
Interference (RFI):
•CISPR 11/EN 55011: Group 1, Class A
•IEC/EN 61326
•AUS/NZ
This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES-001. Cet appareil ISM est
conforme a la norme NMB—001 du Canada.
The 35900 Dual Channel Interface is designed and manufactured under a
quality system registered to ISO 9001.
Information
The Agilent Technologies 35900 Dual Channel Interface meets the following
IEC (International Electro-technical Commission) classifications:
Equipment Class III, Laboratory Equipment Installation Category II, Pollution
Degree 2. Excludes the power adapter which is ground protected.
This unit has been designed and tested in accordance with recognized safety
standards and is designed for use indoors. If the instrument is used in a
manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the
instrument may be impaired. Whenever the safety protection of the 35900
Dual Channel Interface has been compromised, disconnect the unit from all
power sources and secure the unit against unintended operation.

Introduction 1
User Manual 13
Symbols
Warnings in the manual or on the instrument must be observed during all
phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Failure to comply
with these precautions violates safety standards of design and the intended
use of the instrument. Agilent Technologies assumes no liability for the
customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
See accompanying instructions for more
information.
Indicates a hot surface.
Indicates hazardous voltages.
Indicates earth (ground) terminal.
Indicates electrostatic discharge hazard.
Indicates that you must not discard this
electrical/electronic product in domestic
household waste.

14 User Manual
1Introduction
Electromagnetic compatibility
This device complies with the requirements of CISPR 11. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions:
•This device may not cause harmful interference.
•This device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try one or more of the following measures:
1Relocate the radio or antenna.
2Move the device away from the radio or television.
3Plug the device into a different electrical outlet, so that the device and the
radio or television are on separate electrical circuits.
4Make sure that all peripheral devices are also certified.
5Make sure that appropriate cables are used to connect the device to
peripheral equipment.
6Consult your equipment dealer, Agilent Technologies, or an experienced
technician for assistance.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Agilent Technologies
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Cleaning
To clean the unit, disconnect the power and wipe down with a damp, lint-free
cloth.
Recycling the Product
For recycling, contact your local Agilent sales office.

15
Agilent 35900E Dual Channel Interface
User Manual
Agilent Technologies
2
Setup
To Unpack the Unit 16
Checking Parts and Accessories 16
Line Voltage 16
Configuration Switch 17
This section provides procedures for unpacking and configuring the 35900
Dual Channel Interface.

16 User Manual
2Setup
To Un pa ck th e U nit
1If the 35900 is purchased as part of a system, check the carrier's papers to
verify that you received all containers.
2Inspect the shipping container for damage and watermarks.
3Remove the cables and documentation from the shipping container and set
them aside.
4Unpack the 35900 and inspect it for damage. If you see damage, keep the
carton and all packing materials for the carrier's inspection. Contact your
nearest Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Office immediately.
Checking Parts and Accessories
1Verify that you have all parts on the packing list. If you suspect that an
option, accessory, or part is missing or incorrect, call your nearest Agilent
Technologies Sales and Service Office immediately.
2Store user information in a safe place.
Line Voltage
The external power adapter of the 35900 has a universal input range for line
voltage and can be safely connected between 100V and 240V power sources.

Setup 2
User Manual 17
Configuration Switch
There is a set of six configuration switches on the rear panel that control
35900 operation. The default settings are shown in Figure 2. Table 1 describes
the individual switch settings.
Figure 2 Configuration switch and default settings
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18 User Manual
2Setup
Switches 1 and 2 affect the beeper operation.
The remaining four switches combine to specify either a test mode or normal
operation for each channel. The test mode provides service technicians with a
diagnostic tool to show the effects of electrical noise on a known test signal.
Switches 3 and 4 combine to specify either a test mode or normal operation
mode for Signal A.
Switches 5 and 6 combine to specify either a test mode or normal operation
mode for Signal B.
Ta b l e 1 Configuration switch settings
Switch Function Position Effect
1 Beep/Off Up Causes an audible beep when Start/Stop is pressed.
Down Silent at Start/Stop.
2 HI/LO Up Beep, if any, is loud.
Down Beep, if any, is soft.
3ChannelA-
TEST/NORM
Up Selects stored test chromatogram. Analog input signal ignored.
Down Selects Analog input for Normal Operation.
4ChannelA-
ADD/IGNORE
Up Add signal input to the stored chromatogram. Switch 3 must be in Up
position.
Down Do not add (ignore) signal input to stored chromatogram for Channel A.
5ChannelB-
TEST/NORM
Up Selects stored test chromatogram. Analog input signal ignored.
Down Selects Analog input for Normal Operation.
6ChannelB-
ADD/IGNORE
Up Add Channel B signal input to the stored chromatogram. Switch 5 must be
in Up position.
Down Do not add (ignore) signal input to stored chromatogram for Channel B.

19
Agilent 35900E Dual Channel Interface
User Manual
Agilent Technologies
3
Computer Connection
Handling the MIO Card 20
Connecting to a TCP/IP Network 20
Configuring a GPIB/RS-232 MIO Card 22
Connecting to a Host Computer Using GPIB or RS-232
Communications 26
The 35900 and the host computer are connected through a Modular I/O (MIO)
card. This type of removable card allows you to configure the 35900 with the
correct type of link to communicate with your host computer. The 35900 can
transfer and receive data from any MIO compliant card regardless of the type
of connection the card has with the host computer.
The 35900 presently supports the following MIO cards for host
communications:
•TCP/IP LAN (network)
•GPIB/RS-232
The GPIB/RS-232 MIO card requires configuration before use. If using this
card with the 35900, proceed to the next section for instructions on
configuration. After this card is configured, review the sections “Installing the
communication card” on page 25 and “Connecting to a Host Computer Using
GPIB or RS-232 Communications” on page 26.

20 User Manual
3Computer Connection
Handling the MIO Card
Connecting to a TCP/IP Network
The 35900 with a TCP/IP MIO card installed has an Ethernet IEEE 802.3
connector type RJ-45 (twisted-pair cable). Before attaching the 35900 to the
network, the TCP/IP interface card must be installed in the 35900 and the
network must be operational. Connect a LAN cable (part number 8121-0940)
to the 35900 and network before turning on the 35900.
CAUTION The MIO card is static-sensitive and should be handled with static safe procedures to
avoid damage. When handling the board, use the following precautions:
•Use antistatic equipment during installation, such as a grounding mat and wrist strap.
•Hold the board by its edges.
•Do not touch the board’s electrical components, or edge connectors.
Figure 3 Network connection
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%%%%%%%%%%%%
MIO Communication card thumb screws
LAN connector
LAN Id label