ALPhANOV TOMBAK User manual

ALPhANOV –Optical and Laser Technological Center
Phone: +33 (0)5 24 54 52 00 –Fax +33 (0)5 40 00 64 07 –info@alphanov.com –www.alphanov.com
Bât. IOA, rue François Mitterrand - 33400 Talence –France
SIRET 493 635 817 00031 - N° TVA intracommunautaire : FR 24493635817
Page 1/67 - v1.4
TOMBAK
Pulse Delay Generator
Digital Delay Generator
Pulse Picker
Voltage Converter
Arbitrary Waveform Generator
User Manual

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Global Introduction
The Pulse-Delay Generator is a very versatile module, it provides many settings to realize a large set of
functions, from the simplest to the very advanced ones:
It can be used as:
•A basic Pulse Generator : see “Using TOMBAK as a standalone generator” section 3.1 (p22).
•A Digital Delay Generator : see “Using TOMBAK as a Digital Delay Generator” section 3.2
(p27).
•A burst generator : see “Using Tombak as a burst generator” section 3.3 (p32 ).
•A signal gating module : see “Using the Gate feature of TOMBAK” section 3.4 (p37)
•A Synchronization module : see “Using TOMBAK as a signal synchronization modulePulse-
Picker” section 3.5 (p42)
•A voltage level convertor : see “Using TOMBAK as a Voltage Level Converter” section 3.6
(p47)
•A frequency divider : see “Using TOMBAK as a frequency divider” section 3.7 (p52)
•A Pulse-picker : see “Using Tombak as a Pulse-Picker” – section xxxx
•An AWG (user manual improvement coming soon)

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Revision Sheet
Release No.
Date
Revision Description
v1.0
27/04/17
First version
v1.1
07/12/2017
Add Hardware setup and divider example configuration
v1.2
24/01/2018
Updated the list of instructions (§ 4.2.1)
v1.3
26/02/2018
Add Multiple channel section
v1.4
14/10/2019
Corrected several documentation errors in Remote Communication
consigns
V1.5
26/10/2019
Several modifications for 3 product versions (Tombak/DDG/Pulse-
picker) –correction of bad pictures for Voltage converter etc.
Disclaimer
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Copyright © ALPhANOV –Optical and Laser Technological Center
Bât. IOA, rue François Mitterrand - 33400 Talence –France
SIRET 493 635 817 00031 - N° TVA intracommunautaire : FR 24493635817
Fax: (408) 744-9049
www.alphanov.com

5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Global Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Revision Sheet..............................................................................................................................................4
GENERAL INFORMATIONS.......................................................................................................8
1.1 Package Content........................................................................................................................8
1.2 Safety Instructions.....................................................................................................................8
1.2.1 Wiring....................................................................................................................................................8
1.2.2 Operating environment ..........................................................................................................................8
1.3 Contact........................................................................................................................................8
System summary............................................................................................................................10
2.1 Front-Panel overview..............................................................................................................10
2.1.1 Power and Communications Connectors.............................................................................................10
2.1.2 SMA Output and Input Connectors .....................................................................................................10
2.1.3 KK Connectors ....................................................................................................................................11
2.2 System Setup............................................................................................................................12
2.2.1 Power...................................................................................................................................................12
2.2.2 USB .....................................................................................................................................................12
2.2.3 Tools Installation (Windows) ..............................................................................................................12
2.3 Hardware Setup.......................................................................................................................15
2.3.1 “Pulse Out” voltage output level..........................................................................................................15
2.3.2 “Shape Out” voltage output level ........................................................................................................15
2.4 Global Architecture.................................................................................................................16
2.5 Multi-channel module –Stacked TOMBAK.........................................................................16
2.6 Front-Panel User Interface.....................................................................................................18
2.6.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................................18
2.6.2 Working Mode.....................................................................................................................................18
2.6.3 Input Pulse...........................................................................................................................................19
2.6.4 Output Pulse.........................................................................................................................................20
2.6.5 Synchro Input.......................................................................................................................................20
2.6.6 Synchro Output....................................................................................................................................21
Configuration Example ................................................................................................................22
3.1 Using TOMBAK as a standalone generator..........................................................................22
3.1.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................22
3.1.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................22
3.1.3 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................22
3.1.4 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................23
3.1.5 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................23
3.1.6 Main features.......................................................................................................................................26
3.2 Using TOMBAK as a Digital Delay Generator.....................................................................27
3.2.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................27
3.2.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................27
3.2.3 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................28
3.2.4 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................28
3.2.5 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................28

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3.2.6 Main features.......................................................................................................................................31
3.3 Using Tombak as a burst generator.......................................................................................32
3.3.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................32
3.3.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................32
3.3.3 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................32
3.3.4 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................33
3.3.5 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................33
3.3.6 Main features.......................................................................................................................................36
3.4 Using the Gate feature of TOMBAK.....................................................................................37
3.4.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................37
3.4.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................37
3.4.1 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................37
3.4.2 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................38
3.4.3 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................38
3.4.4 Main features.......................................................................................................................................41
3.5 Using TOMBAK as a signal synchronization module..........................................................42
3.5.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................42
3.5.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................42
3.5.1 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................42
3.5.2 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................43
3.5.3 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................43
3.5.4 Main features.......................................................................................................................................46
3.6 Using TOMBAK as a Voltage Level Converter....................................................................47
3.6.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................47
3.6.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................47
3.6.3 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................47
3.6.4 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................48
3.6.5 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................48
3.6.6 Main features.......................................................................................................................................51
3.7 Using TOMBAK as a frequency divider ...............................................................................52
3.7.1 Presentation..........................................................................................................................................52
3.7.2 Timing diagram ...................................................................................................................................52
3.7.3 Synoptic...............................................................................................................................................52
3.7.4 Cabling.................................................................................................................................................53
3.7.5 Software configuration ........................................................................................................................53
3.7.6 Main features.......................................................................................................................................56
3.8 Using TOMBAK as a PULSE-PICKER................................................................................57
3.8.1 Introduction / Overview.......................................................................................................................57
3.8.2 Timing diagrams..................................................................................................................................57
3.9 Using TOMBAK as an AWG (Arbitrary Waveform Generator).......................................58
REMOTE COMMUNICATION...................................................................................................59
4.1 Protocol Description................................................................................................................59
4.1.1 Getting started: configure UART.........................................................................................................59
4.1.2 Protocol................................................................................................................................................59
4.1.3 Messaging............................................................................................................................................61
4.2 List of Instructions and measures..........................................................................................65
4.2.1 Instructions ..........................................................................................................................................65
4.2.2 Measures..............................................................................................................................................66
4.3 Example....................................................................................................................................67

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1.0 –GENERAL INFORMATIONS
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GENERAL INFORMATIONS
1.1 Package Content
The Pulse Delay Generator package comes with:
•1 TOMBAK board
•1 DC Power Supply (+5V / 2A)
•1 USB-Jack FTDI cable
•1 CD-ROM or USB Key with “ALPhANOV Control Software Suite”
•1 User Manual
Figure 1 Package Content
1.2 Safety Instructions
1.2.1 Wiring
-Please first connect the input pins to the board and then plug the DC Power Supply.
-Use caution when connecting the Power Supply.
-Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from Tombak.
-Connect the ground completely. Electric shock may occur if the ground is not connected
correctly.
1.2.2 Operating environment
-Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other equipment
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
-To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose Tombak to rain or moisture.
1.3 Contact
If you have any question about Tombak module, please contact ALPhANOV at info@alphanov.com.

1.0 –GENERAL INFORMATIONS
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2.0 –System summary
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SYSTEM SUMMARY
2.1 Front-Panel overview
2.1.1 Power and Communications Connectors
- Power connector (5V / 0.7A)
- Input Communication Connector
- Output Communication Connector
2.1.2 SMA Output and Input Connectors
- Analogic Output Signal (Shaper)
- Digital Pulse Output Signal (Pulse Out)
- Synchronization Output Signal 2 (Sync Out 2)
- Synchronization Output Signal 1 (Sync Out 1)

2.0 –System summary
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- External Synchronization Input Signal (Sync Ext In)
- Digital Pulse Input Signal (Pulse In)
- External Gate Signal Input (Gate Ext)
2.1.3 KK Connectors
- Shape Selection Connector
- External Synchronization Connector
- Analogic Pulse Input Connector
- Spare Connectors (Factory use only)

2.0 –System summary
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2.2 System Setup
2.2.1 Power
To power Tombak module, please use the DC Power adapter provided.
First plug the cables into the power connector ()of the module. Red cable in ‘+’ and black cable in ‘-’
(polarity is indicated on the product).
You can then plug the DC Power Adapter to a plug socket.
2.2.2 USB
To communicate with Tombak module, please use included USB →Jack cable provided.
First connect the jack part into Input Communication Connector () of the module.
Please install software and pilots before plugging USB cable to computer. See section below
2.2.3 Tools Installation (Windows)
TOMBAK boards works along “ALPhANOV Control Software”: this software is unique and compatible
with all ALPhANOV electronic modules and boards.
2.2.3.1 Software installation
Insert CD-ROM or USB Key provided with the module. Then open an Explorer windows and navigate into
“Computer” part. You will either see a CR-ROM or USB Key with “ALPhANOV” title, open it.
Double click on ControlSoftware_x_x_xx.exe file name.
The following window will show:
Click on Next;
In the following windows, choose a specific installation path or leave default. Then, go to the next section

2.0 –System summary
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The following window lets you choose the program’s shortcut name in the Start Menu folder. Feel free to
change it or leave it by default.
The next part lets you choose if a desktop icon needs to be created. If so, please check the box. Then go to
next section.

2.0 –System summary
15
Jumper
Pin number 1 is indicated on
electronic board by the symbol
« » or by the indicator « 1 ».
2.2.3.2 Driver installation
The driver installation runs through 2 parts:
•Microsoft Runtime installation
•USB Driver installation
No specific indication here, just click on “Next” and “Install” dialogs and wait until installations are
finished.
2.3 Hardware Setup
Tombak module provides some hardware setup to adjust output voltage level by moving jumpers on
electronic board.
2.3.1 “Pulse Out” voltage output level
Voltage level can be adjusted according to the following configuration:
-1V : Jumper J901 in position 2-3
-3,3V : Jumper J901 in position 1-2 et J900 in position 1-2
-TTL : Jumper J901 in position 1-2 et J900 in position 2-3
2.3.2 “Shape Out” voltage output level
Voltage level can be adjusted according to the following configuration:
-1V : Jumper J800 in position 2-3 et J801 in position 2-3
-5V : Jumper J800 in position 1-2 et J801 in position 1-2

2.0 –System summary
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2.4 Global Architecture
2.5 Multi-channel module –Stacked TOMBAK
TOMBAK can be delivered in multi-channel version with multiple board stacked in a compact module.
This option allows the user to access multiple output signal while sharing the same power source, the same
communication bus and some internal signals between stacked board. For example, output signal from first
board can be sent to the second board without any cable thanks to the internal “daisy connector”.
The shared features available in stacked module are:

2.0 –System summary
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•Power: A single power source is needed and should be connected at the top
•Usb Communication cable: A single USB to Jack cable is needed to access all features of the
multi-channel module and should be connected at the bottom.
•Synchronization signals:
oSyncOut1 & SyncOut2: Synchronization output signals can support multiple signals such
as output pulse, delayed pulsed, internal trigger (see 2.4. Global Architecture diagram) …
These outputs can be synchronized only with the next upper board.
oDaisyIn1: Synchronization input signal that can be used as fundamental input signal (same
as “Pulse In” from SMA, see 2.4. Global Architecture diagram). This input can be
synchronized only with the board above.
oDaisyIn2: Synchronization input signal that can be used as gate or burst trigger signal
(same as “Gate In” from SMA, see 2.4. Global Architecture diagram). This input can be
synchronized only with the board above.
For any other combination of signals between stacked board, user can still use SMA cable between the
modules.
Power supply must be connected at
the top of the multichannel module
Usb communication cable must be
connected at the bottom
TOMBAK 1 : DaisySyncOut1&2
can be sent to TOMBAK 2
TOMBAK 1
TOMBAK 2
TOMBAK 1 : DaisySyncIn1&2
not available
TOMBAK 2 : DaisySyncIn1&2
can be synchronized with
TOMBAK1
TOMBAK 2 : DaisySyncOut1&2
not available

2.0 –System summary
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2.6 Front-Panel User Interface
2.6.1 Overview
2.6.2 Working Mode
2.6.2.1 Board
This button is the global enable switch of the module
•In ON position, every feature and signal of the board will be active.
•IN OFF position, the board will be in standby mode and output signals will
be inactive.
2.6.2.2 Shaper
This button is the Analogic Output Signal (Shaper) enable switch
•In ON position, an AWG signal can be output on SHAPE OUT SMA
Connector.
•IN OFF position, the AWG signal will be at its default value.
2.6.2.3 Inverse
This button is the Digital Output Signal (Pulse Out) inverter switch
•In ON position, the digital output signal on PULSE OUT SMA connector will be
logically inverted.
•IN OFF position, it will be at its normal state.

2.0 –System summary
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2.6.2.4 Advanced Mode
This button is the Advanced mode selection switch
•In HIGH position, the digital output signal will be continuous
at its high level.
•In PICK position, the board is set in Picking & Synchronisation
Mode: the digital PULSE OUT signal is synchronized with
PULSE IN. In this advanced mode, an external or internally
generated signal can be synchronized with PULSE IN signal.
Delay and pulse width regarding PULSE IN are software
adjustable.
•In Gen position, the board is a 20MHz standalone generator.
•In Sync position, PULSE OUT is synchronized with PULSE IN
and voltage level may be upgrade.
2.6.3 Input Pulse
2.6.3.1 Threshold
This setting is the trigger level on Digital Input Signal (Pulse In)
•It should be adjusted so that the frequency read on Pulse Freq. box is
correct.
2.6.3.2 Pulse Freq.
This display box shows a frequency measurement value on Digital Input
Signal (Pulse In)
•Threshold setting has to be adjusted to get the correct value in this box.
2.6.3.3 Division
This setting allows to divide frequency of Digital Input Signal (Pulse In)
2.6.3.4 Source
This setting allows to choose Digital Input Signal (Pulse In) source
•In Direct position, the signal input is taken from SMA connector.
•In Daisy position, the signal input is taken from another TOMBAK
module chained. (Multi-output configuration option).

2.0 –System summary
20
2.6.4 Output Pulse
2.6.4.1 Width
This setting allows to modify Digital Output Signal (Pulse Out) pulse width
2.6.4.2 Delay
This setting allows to modify Digital Output Signal (Pulse Out)
delay
2.6.4.3 Fine Delay
This special feature allows to fine adjust the Digital Output Signal (Pulse
Out) delay up to 10ps
•In Auto mode, the board automatically adjust delay from Delay Box
value
•In Manual mode, user can adjust manually delay with 10ps resolution
2.6.5 Synchro Input
2.6.5.1 Source
This button allows to select signal source to synchronize with PULSE IN
•In INT position, signal source is selected from an internal frequency
generator. Value can be adjusted with Frequency box.
•In EXT position, signal source is selected from external source (SYNC EXT
Input Signal). Frequency is shown in Frequency box.
2.6.5.2 Frequency
This button allows to set or visualize synchronization signal frequency
•When Source button is set to INT: allows to set frequency.
•When Source button is set to EXT: shows a measure of external frequency.
2.6.5.3 Mode
This button allows to choose internal gating mode
•When Mode button is set to None: the Digital Output Signal will remain
unchanged.
•When Mode button is set to Gate, Digital Output Signal will be enabled
when External Gate Input Signal is at high level, if this External Gate
Input is at low level, no signal will be emitted from Digital Output
Signal.
•When Mode button is set to Burst: a number of pulse from the Digital
Input Signal will be emitted to Digital Output Signal when a rising edge
occurs on External Gate Input Signal. The number of pulses emitted
can be set using Burst Size box.
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