Artifex TZA500 Series User manual

Artifex
Engineering
TZA500
Series
Transimpedance
Amplifier
Read this instruction manual before performing any task!
TZA500Engl_RevD.doc

TZA500 Operating Instructions
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Original Operating Instructions
Artifex Engineering e.K., 2016

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Table of Contents
1ABOUT THIS MANUAL 7
1.1 Information about this manual 7
1.2 Explanation of symbols 7
1.3 Copyright 9
1.4 Customer service 9
2SAFETY 10
2.1 Intended use 10
2.2 Basic dangers 10
2.3 Responsibility of the owner 11
2.4 Personnel requirements 12
2.5 Symbols on the unit 13
2.6 Scope of delivery 14
2.7 Transport inspection 14
2.8 Packaging 14
2.9 Transporting 15
2.10 Storage 16
3PRODUCT OVERVIEW 17
3.1 Linear or Logarithmic? 17
4ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS 19
5ORDERING INFORMATION 19
5.1 Available Models 19
6SPECIFICATIONS 20
6.1 Typical Signal Forms 21
6.2 Case Dimensions 22
6.3 Front Panel 22

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6.3.1 Input Receptacle 23
6.3.2 Output Receptacle 23
6.3.3 Overload Indicator (red LED) 23
6.3.4 Power Indicator (green LED) 24
6.3.5 Bias Receptacle 24
6.4 Back Panel 25
6.4.1 Hardwire Interface (DB25 Receptacle) 25
6.4.2 USB Receptacle 25
6.4.3 Power Input Receptacle 25
7PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION 26
7.1 Input Receptacle 27
7.2 Bias Receptacle 28
7.3 Gain 28
7.4 Output Polarity 29
7.5 Bandwidth Reduction 29
7.6 Auto-Zero 29
8HARDWIRE INTERFACE 31
9INSTALLATION OF THE SOFTWARE PACKAGE 32
10 USING THE APPLICATION SOFTWARE 32
10.1 The Functions of the Pull Down Menus 32
10.2 The Tool Bar 35
10.3 The Status Bar 37
10.4 Preferences 38
10.5 Data Formats 39
10.5.1 The *TZA Format 39
10.5.2 The *CSV Format 39
10.6 The Graph 40
10.6.1 The Context Menü 41
10.7 The SDK Package 42

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10.8 Source Code of the Application Programme 42
10.9 Demo Programm in Labview 44
11 COMMUNICATION WITH THE TZA500 45
11.1 Communication Protocol 45
11.2 Command Structure 47
11.2.1 Change Interface 47
11.2.2 Data output 47
11.2.3 Auto-Zero Function 47
11.2.4 Polarity 47
11.2.5 Bandwidth 48
11.2.6 Info 48
11.2.7 Gain 48
12 DAMAGE 49
12.1 Troubleshooting 49
13 DISPOSAL 50
14 TYPE PLATE 50
15 NOTICE 51

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List of Figures
Figure 1: Case Dimensions; units mm (inches) ....................................................................... 22
Figure 2: Front Panel (BNC input, no bias) ............................................................................. 22
Figure 3: Front Panel (BR2 input, with bias receptacle).......................................................... 23
Figure 4: Polarity of Input Receptacles for Positive Output in Non-Inverting Mode.............. 23
Figure 5: Pinning of the Bias Receptacle................................................................................. 24
Figure 6: Schematic Diagrammes of Single-Ended Inputs with Bias Inputs........................... 24
Figure 7: Back Panel ................................................................................................................ 25
Figure 8: Block Diagramme of the TZA500............................................................................ 26
Figure 9: Polarity of Input Receptacles for Positive Output in Non-Inverting Mode.............. 27
Figure 10: Schematic Diagrammes of Single-Ended and Differential Input Configurations .. 27
Figure 11: Pinning of the Bias Receptacle............................................................................... 28
Figure 12: Schematic Diagrammes of Single-Ended Inputs with Bias Inputs......................... 28
Figure 13: The Graphical User Interface (GUI)....................................................................... 32
Figure 14: The Tool Bar........................................................................................................... 35
Figure 15: The Status Bar......................................................................................................... 37
List of Tables
Table 1: Absolute Maximum Ratings ...................................................................................... 19
Table 2: Ordering Information ................................................................................................. 19
Table 3: Available Models ....................................................................................................... 19
Table 4: Specifications of the TZA500 .................................................................................... 20
Table 5: Typical Signal Forms................................................................................................. 21
Table 6: Pinning of the Hardwire Interface (DB25) ................................................................ 31
Table 7: Gain Setting via the Hardwire Interface (DB25) ....................................................... 31
Table 8: Bandwidth Setting via the Hardwire Interface (DB25) ............................................. 31

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1About this manual
1.1 Information about this manual
This manual is valid for units with firmware version FW2.0, that is, with serial number
S/N 131 and higher.
This manual enables you to handle the device in a safe and efficient manner. This manual is
part of the device and must be kept in its vicinity in order to ensure that it is available to the
personnel at all times.
The personnel must have carefully read and understood this manual before commencing any
work. The compliance with all safety information and instructions provided in this manual is
essential for safe operation.
Furthermore, all local work protection and general safety regulations applicable at the device's
place of installation must be observed.
The illustrations used throughout this manual are intended to provide a general understanding
and may deviate from the actual model of the machine.
1.2 Explanation of symbols
Safety instructions
Safety instructions are marked with symbols in these instructions. The safety instructions are
always introduced by signal words which express the extent of the danger.
DANGER!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates an immediately-
dangerous situation which could cause death or severe injuries if not
avoided.
WARNING!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a possibly-
dangerous situation which could cause death or severe injuries if it is not
avoided.

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CAUTION!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a possibly-
dangerous situation which could cause slight injuries if it is not avoided.
NOTICE!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a possibly-dangerous
situation which could cause property and environmental damage if it is not
avoided.
Tips and recommendations
This symbol highlights useful tips and recommendations as well as
information designed to ensure efficient and smooth operation.
Special safety instructions
The following symbols are used in the safety instructions to draw attention to specific
dangers:
DANGER!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates an immediately-
dangerous situation due to electric shock. If an instruction so marked is not
heeded, severe or even fatal injuries can be the consequence.
DANGER!
This combination of symbol and signal word indicates an immediately-
dangerous situation due to laseremission. If an instruction so marked is not
heeded, severe or even fatal injuries can be the consequence.

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1.3 Copyright
The contents of these instructions are copyrighted. Their use is permitted in the context of
using the device. Any use extending beyond this is not allowed without written permission
from the manufacturer.

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2Safety
This section provides an overview of all safety aspects that are essential to the best possible
protection of the personnel and the safe and trouble-free operation of the machine. Additional
safety instructions for specific work tasks are contained in the sections regarding the
individual life stages of the machine.
2.1 Intended use
The transimpedance amplifier TZA500 is designed exclusively as a measurement device for
measuring small electrical currents.
The intended use also includes adherence to all specifications in this manual.
Any use exceeding or differing from the intended use applies as misuse.
2.2 Basic dangers
The following section describes remaining risks which can arise from the device even with
proper use.
In order to reduce risks of personal injury and property damage and avoid dangerous
situations, the safety instructions listed here and the safety instructions in the other sections of
these instructions must be followed.
Electrical current
DANGER!
Life-threatening danger from electrical current!
When touching live parts in the external power supply there is an
immediate, life-threatening danger from electric shock. Damage to the
housing as well as the cable can be life-threatening!
Work on the external power supply may only be performed by the
manufacturer.
In the event of damage to the housing or the cable, immediately
disconnect the voltage supply by pulling out the mains plug and
initiate the repair process.

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2.3 Responsibility of the owner
Owner:
The owner is any such person who operates the transimpedance amplifier for commercial or
economic purpose either itself or transfers it to a third party for use and bears the legal
responsibility for the safety of the user, the personnel or third parties during the operation.
Owner's duties:
The transimpedance amplifier is used in commercial applications. Therefore, the owner of the
respective transimpedance amplifier is subject to the statutory duties of work safety.
In addition to the safety instructions in this manual, the safety, work safety and environmental
safety regulations applicable for the area in which the electronic ballast is used must be
adhered to. In the process, the following applies in particular:
The owner must remain updated on the applicable work safety regulations and
determine, in the scope of a risk assessment, additional dangers which can arise due to
the special working conditions at the place in which the electronic ballast is used. This
must be implemented in the form of working instructions for the operation of the
transimpedance amplifier.
During the entire period of use of the transimpedance amplifier, the owner must check
whether the working instructions meet the current status of the rules and regulations
and to adapt them as necessary.
The owner must clearly regulate and define responsibilities for the operation, fault
rectification and cleaning.
The owner must make sure that all persons who work with the transimpedance
amplifier have read and understood this manual. Moreover, the owner must train the
personnel in regular intervals and inform them of the dangers.
The owner must adhere to all statutory provisions in regard to the regular testing of
electrical equipment and document this testing.

In addition, the owner is responsible for ensuring that the unit is always in a technically
faultless condition.

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2.4 Personnel requirements
Qualifications:
The various tasks described in this manual place different requirements on the qualification of
the persons to whom these tasks are entrusted.
NOTICE!
Insufficiently qualified personnel can cause property damage!
Insufficiently qualified personnel cannot assess the risks when working with
the unit.
All work may only be performed by personnel who are qualified for this
purpose.
Keep insufficiently qualified personnel away from the work area.
Only persons who can be expected to reliably perform this work are permitted to carry out
any work with this equipment. Persons whose ability to react is impaired by drugs, alcohol,
medications, etc. are not permitted to work with this equipment.
In this manual the following qualifications listed for the personnel for the various tasks are
specified:
User:
The user uses and operates the device for its intended purpose without other prior knowledge.

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2.5 Symbols on the unit
The following symbols and instruction signs are affixed in the work area. These symbols and
instruction signs refer to the immediate vicinity in which they are affixed.
WARNING!
Danger due to illegible signage!
Over time, stickers and signs can get dirty or in some other manner
become illegible, so that dangers cannot be recognized and necessary
operating instructions cannot be followed. Thus an injury hazard
occurs.
Keep all safety, warning, and operating instructions that are affixed to
the device in legible condition.
Replace damaged signs or stickers immediately.
Observe the operating manual
Do not use the indicated appliance until the operating manual has been
read.
Do not dispose of with the household waste
Notice that the transimpedance amplifier may not be disposed of with the
household waste. The worn out unit can be taken to an electronics and
metal recycling service for disposal. The manufacturer also accepts old
units for disposal.

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2.6 Scope of delivery
Depending of the chosen model, the scope of delivery will vary:
TZA500 transimpedance amplifier
Power supply
USB cable
USB-Stick with Software, drivers and manual
Bias shorting adapter plug (models with bias receptacle only)
Spare connectors (models with BR2 input receptacle only)
2.7 Transport inspection
On receipt, immediately inspect the delivery for completeness and transport
damage.
Proceed as follows in the event of externally apparent transport damage:
Do not accept the delivery, or only accept it subject to reservation.
Note the extent of the damage on the transport documentation or the
shipper's delivery note.
Initiate complaint procedures.
Issue a complaint in respect of each defect immediately following detection.
Damage compensation claims can only be asserted within the applicable
complaint deadlines.
2.8 Packaging
About the packaging
The individual transimpedance amplifier is packaged according to the expected transport
conditions. Only environmentally friendly materials were used for the packaging.
The packaging should protect the individual transimpedance amplifier from transport damage,
corrosion and other types of damage. Therefore, do not destroy the packaging and save it for
later transport and for storage.

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Handling packaging materials
If the transimpedance amplifier no longer has to be transported, dispose of the packaging
materials in accordance with the respective statutory provisions and local regulations.
NOTICE!
Danger for the environment from improper disposal!
Packaging materials are valuable raw materials and can be reused in
many cases or prepared and recycled. Dangers for the environment
can arise through improper disposal of packaging material.
Only dispose of packaging materials once it has been determined that the
electronic ballast will no longer be transported.
Dispose of packaging materials in an environmentally friendly manner.
Observe the locally applicable disposal regulations. If necessary,
commission a specialist company with the disposal.
2.9 Transporting
NOTICE!
Property damage from improper transport!
Improper transport can damage the transimpedance amplifier.
Always transport the transimpedance amplifier in the packaging provided
for this purpose.
Always proceed with caution with the transport of the transimpedance
amplifier in the packaging.
Do not throw the transimpedance amplifier.
Protect the transimpedance amplifier from vibrations and moisture.
Do not let the transimpedance amplifier fall.

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2.10 Storage
Store the electronic ballasts in the packaging under the following conditions:
Do not store outdoors.
Store in a dry and dust-free area.
Do not expose to any aggressive media.
Protect from sun radiation.
Avoid mechanical vibrations.
Storage temperature: 15 to 35 °C.
Relative air humidity: max. 60 %.
Under certain circumstances there are instructions for the storage on the
packaging, which exceed the requirements specified here. Follow these
accordingly.

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3Product Overview
The TZA500 series of amplifiers employs precision dual transimpedance input stages to
provide for high common mode rejection and linearity throughout the full dynamic range. The
TZA500 may be configured with a differential or single-ended input stage. The differential
design requires a floating current input. If the application involves a grounded or biased
current source, a single ended amplifier must be used.
These transimpedance amplifiers are particularly useful for the measurement of current from
photodiodes. The output is a voltage linearly proportional to input current and thus, to input
power in photodiode monitoring applications. The fast response time at high signal-noise-
ratio makes this TZA series particularly useful in systems control feedback loops. The high
sensitivity and large dynamic range allow measurement of a wide range of optical sources
such as lasers and LEDs via a variety of photodiodes for these applications such as Si and
InGaAs.
The TZA500 series is insensitive to electromagnetic interference by design, an important
factor when working in „dirty“ industrial environments. The proprietary auto-zeroing function
allows up to 10V of offset zeroing. This is particularly useful for offsetting dark current or for
eliminating a DC signal component to concentrate on signal changes, such as in component
burn-in and life-time testing.
The TZA500 may be controlled via the USB port using the graphical user interface software
provided with the instrument. Alternatively, the amplifier may be controlled via the DB25
hardwire interface or through direct commands via the USB interface.
The software development kit comprising the GUI source code as well as a LabVIEWdemo
VI allows for easy integration of the TZA500 into a custom software environment.
3.1 Linear or Logarithmic?
The question often arises as to which signal processing technique is better for a system
feedback amplifier: an output linearly or logarithmically proportional to the input current.
The use of logarithmic amplifiers for optical power monitoring results from the large dynamic
range of relevant powers. For example, the TZA500 series can measure from 10mA to 30pA:
more than 8 decades of current (or optical power when measuring photodiodes). This dynamic
range is far beyond the capabilities of a linear amplifier in a single gain range.
However, by breaking the measurement into range subgroups, linear amplifiers can easily
cover the same dynamic range as a logarithmic amplifier. This method is slightly more
complicated than using a logarithmic amplifier with a single gain, but it brings several
advantages:
LabVIEW is a registered trade mark of the National Instruments Corporation

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1. Linear amplifiers are more stable than logarithmic amplifiers
2. Linear amplifiers are faster than logarithmic amplifiers and settle more quickly following
sudden input changes
3. Linear amplifiers are more accurate than logarithmic amplifiers at higher outputs
Consider an application example: a fibre optic power monitor is used to measure the power
coupled into a device in an automated confectioning system. The device being confectioned
may be a laser being pigtailed or fibre being connected to an AWG, for example.
Now the automated positioning system takes the measured value of the coupled power
(measured by the power monitor) and uses this value to control the motion stages positioning
the fibre. The system searches for the position giving the maximum coupled optical power.
Obviously, the accuracy of the positioning will depend on the accuracy of the measurement at
the highest powers measured. Since the logarithm function compresses data, the position
dependance of a logarithmic amplifier is flatter than for the linear amplifier at higher power.
Thus, the linear amplifier will allow the system to achieve better results in this application.
This point is depicted in the following diagram:
Comparison of linear and logarithmic outputs in a fibre positioning application.
The linear output results in a sharper peak allowing more accurate positioning.
-10
-9
-8
-7
-6
-5
-4
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
-2 -1 0 1 2
Fibre position
(µm from centre)
Power monitor output (V)
Linear
Logarithmic

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4Absolute Maximum Ratings
Table 1: Absolute Maximum Ratings
Average Input Current 15mA
Input Voltage ±15V
Bias Voltage ±15V
Temperature Range 0 – 60 °C
5Ordering Information
Table 2: Ordering Information
Full order code: TZA500 i r b
Options Description
Input D
S
Differential
Single Ended
Receptacle B
T
BNC
BR2
Bias
bias
Without bias
With bias
5.1 Available Models
Table 3: Available Models
Model Number Order Code Description
TZA500DB 30.100.00021 Differential input; BNC input receptacle, no bias
TZA500DT 30.100.00024 Differential input; BR2 input receptacle, no bias
TZA500SB 30.100.00014 Single-ended input; BNC input receptacle, no bias
TZA500SBbias 30.100.00023 Single-ended input; BNC input receptacle, with bias
TZA500ST 30.100.00025 Single-ended input; BR2 input receptacle, no bias
TZA500STbias 30.100.00016 Single-ended input; BR2 input receptacle, with bias
For example, a TZA500 with single-ended input (for grounded photodiode measurement)
would be ordered as:
TZA500SB
For customized systems (eg: customized gain or receptacles), please contact us.

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6Specifications
Table 4: Specifications of the TZA500
Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Units
Input
Current ranges (full scale) Range: 103V/A
104V/A
105V/A
106V/A
107V/A
108V/A
10
1
100
10
1
100
mA
“
µA
“
“
nA
Noise equivalent current (NEIRMS) Range: 103V/A
104V/A
105V/A
106V/A
107V/A
108V/A
75
15
1
150
15
10
nA
“
“
pA
“
“
Impedance 0 (virtual short circuit) 
Connectors BNC or BR21
Output
Function Linear analogue Vout = scale x Iin
Output scale Range: 103V/A
104V/A
105V/A
106V/A
107V/A
108V/A
1
10
0.1
1
10
0.1
V / mA
“
V / µA
“
“
V / nA
Connectors BNC and DB251
Output range (full scale) 10 V
Rise / Fall time (10% - 90%) 35 µs
Settling time (1%) Source capacitance: 70pF
2nF
60
80
75
150
µs
Accuracy
1 %
Linearity
0.1 0.2 dB
Output impedance 50 
Logic
Current required for switching (5V) -10 0.01 10 µA
Switching time Source capacitance: 70pF
2nF
752
1502
µs
Power Supply
Type Wall plug (supplied)
Dimensions 30 x 50 x 60 mm
Dimensions
1053x 45 x 116 mm (w x h x l) mm
1Adapters for other connector systems available upon request
2Logic switching < 1µs. Effective switching time limited by settling time.
3130 mm including case wings