Avtech AVR-EB2A-B User manual

INSTRUCTIONS
MODEL AVR-EB2A-B
± 100 mA “CONDITION A”
REVERSE RECOVERY
MEASUREMENT SYSTEM
SERIAL NUMBER: ____________
A V T E C H E L E C T R O S Y S T E M S L T D .
N A N O S E C O N D W A V E F O R M E L E C T R O N I C S
S I N C E 1 9 7
[e-mail]
http://www.avtechpulse.com/
Tel: [phone] (USA & Canada) or [phone] (Intl)
Fax: [phone] (USA & Canada) or [phone] (Intl)
BOX 120, LCD MERIVALE
OTTAWA, CANADA K2C3H

WARRANTY
Avtech Electrosystems Ltd. warrants products of its manufacture to be free
from defects in material and workmanship under conditions of normal use. If,
within one year after delivery to the original owner, and after prepaid return by
the original owner, this Avtech product is found to be defective, Avtech shall at
its option repair or replace said defective item. This warranty does not apply to
units which have been dissembled, modified or subjected to conditions
exceeding the applicable specifications or ratings. This warranty is the extent of
the obligation assumed by Avtech with respect to this product and no other
warranty or guarantee is either expressed or implied.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Phone: [phone] (USA & Canada) or [phone] (International)
Fax: [phone] (USA & Canada) or [phone] (International)
E-mail: [e-mail]
World Wide Web: http://www.avtechpulse.com
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY......................................................................................................................2
TECHNICAL SUPPORT...................................................................................................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS....................................................................................................3
INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................6
SPECIFICATIONS............................................................................................................8
SPECIFICATIONS – INCLUDED TEST JIGS..................................................................9
REGULATORY NOTES..................................................................................................10
FCC PART 18........................................................................................................................ 10
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY................................................................................10
DIRECTIVE 2011/65/EU (RoHS)..........................................................................................11
DIRECTIVE 2002/96/EC ( EEE)..........................................................................................11
FIRM ARE LICENSING.......................................................................................................12
INSTALLATION..............................................................................................................13
VISUAL CHECK....................................................................................................................13
PO ER RATINGS................................................................................................................13
CONNECTION TO THE PO ER SUPPLY...........................................................................13
PROTECTION FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK...........................................................................14
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS........................................................................................15
FUSES.............................................................................................................................16
AC FUSE REPLACEMENT...................................................................................................16
DC FUSE REPLACEMENT...................................................................................................17
FUSE RATINGS....................................................................................................................17
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS..........................................................................................18
REAR PANEL CONTROLS............................................................................................20
TIMING CONTROL.........................................................................................................22
MAINFRAME PULSE OUTPUT............................................................................................22
TRIGGER MODES................................................................................................................23
GATING MODES...................................................................................................................24
BASIC AMPLITUDE CONTROL....................................................................................2
SETTING THE AMPLITUDE LEVELS..................................................................................26
AMPLITUDE ACCURACY.....................................................................................................26
CURRENT MONITOR...........................................................................................................26
3

INCORRECT ORIENTATION................................................................................................27
STANDARD TEST JIG MECHANICAL ASPECTS........................................................28
AVX-CA-AXPOST TEST JIG................................................................................................28
SPECIALTY TEST JIGS.................................................................................................30
AVX-CA-AR1 TEST JIG........................................................................................................30
AVX-CA-SOD123-QTKA.......................................................................................................33
AVX-CA-KMPB-TO39...........................................................................................................35
AVX-CA-SOT23B..................................................................................................................36
TYPICAL RESULTS.......................................................................................................41
1N4148 RESULTS................................................................................................................41
MQ1N5811US RESULTS......................................................................................................43
1N5819 RESULTS................................................................................................................45
ITH NO DUT.......................................................................................................................47
TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................................................49
PROGRAMMING YOUR PULSE GENERATOR............................................................ 0
KEY PROGRAMMING COMMANDS....................................................................................50
ALL PROGRAMMING COMMANDS.....................................................................................51
MECHANICAL INFORMATION...................................................................................... 3
TOP COVER REMOVAL.......................................................................................................53
RACK MOUNTING................................................................................................................ 53
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE..............................................................................53
MAINTENANCE.............................................................................................................. 4
REGULAR MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................54
CLEANING............................................................................................................................ 54
TRIGGER DAMAGE.............................................................................................................. 54
WIRING DIAGRAMS.......................................................................................................
IRING OF AC PO ER.......................................................................................................55
PCB 158R4 - LO VOLTAGE PO ER SUPPLY................................................................56
PCB 168B - HIGH VOLTAGE DC PO ER SUPPLY...........................................................57
PCB 210B - INTERLOCK AND CONTROL..........................................................................58
PCB 116D - CURRENT MONITOR.......................................................................................59
PCB 217A - RELAY DRIVER................................................................................................60
PCB 104F - KEYPAD / DISPLAY BOARD, 1/3....................................................................61
PCB 104F - KEYPAD / DISPLAY BOARD, 2/3....................................................................62
4

PCB 104F - KEYPAD / DISPLAY BOARD, 3/3....................................................................63
MAIN IRING.......................................................................................................................64
TEST JIG IRING (AVX-CA-AXPOST)................................................................................65
TEST JIG IRING (AVX-CA-AR1).......................................................................................66
TEST JIG IRING (AVX-CA-SOD123-QTKA).....................................................................67
TEST JIG IRING (AVX-CA-KMBP-TO39)..........................................................................68
TEST JIG IRING (AVX-CA-SOT23B)................................................................................69
CUSTOMIZED DAUGHTERBOARD (AVX-CA-SOT23B).....................................................70
PERFORMANCE CHECK SHEET.................................................................................71
Manual Reference: /fileserver2/officefiles/instructword/avr-eb/avr-eb2a-b/AVR-EB2A-B,ed8.odt.
Last modified March 11, 2019.
Copyright © 2019 Avtech Electrosystems Ltd, All Rights Reserved.

INTRODUCTION
The AVR-EB2A-B is a high performance, GPIB and RS232-equipped pulse generator
used for measuring the reverse recovery time of high-speed, low-current signal diodes.
The AVR-EB2A-B generates a forward DC bias current of +10 to +100 mA. A 200 ns
wide negative pulse is superimposed onto the signal, to generate reverse currents of up
to -100 mA.
The 10%-90% switching time for the positive to negative transition is much less than
00 ps (typically 300 ps), measured at the input to the test jig. The jig and the
inductance and switching dynamic of the device under test (DUT) degrade this to
approximately 7 0 ps typically, measured at the output of the jig.
The waveforms generated by this instrument are generally suitable for MIL-STD-7 0E
Method 4031.4 Test Condition A tests. The basic test arrangement is shown below:
AVTECH
AVR-EB2A-B
MAINFRAME
OUT
SYNC
CONTROL
AVX-CA TEST JIG EXT TRIG
VPULSE,
-24V MAXIMUM
0V
VOLTAGE PULSE CURRENT THROUGH DUT (IDUT)
CONTROL
IN
IR, -100 mA MAX.
0 mA
IF, +100 mA MAX.
REVERSE
RECOVERY
TIME (tRR)
DUT
IDUT
2 meter
DB-9
CABLE
VPULSE, up
to -24V
Up to
+11 V
VDC
Other signals ... Other signals ...
RDC = 9 0Ω
VSCOPE = IDUT × 0Ω / 10
OSCILLOSCOPE
(B > 1 GHz)
CH A
RSCOPE = 0Ω
20 dB
ATTENUATOR
(USE SUPPLIED
SMA-BNC
ADAPTER, IF
REQUIRED)
RPULSE = 0Ω
VOUT = IDUT × 0Ω
200 ns
IF ≈ (VDC – VDIODE) / 1 kΩ
IR ≈ IF + VPULSE / 100 Ω
60 cm
SMA-to-SMA
COAXIAL
CABLE
OUT
60 cm
SMA-to-SMA
COAXIAL
CABLE
6

Standard AVR-EB2A-B models include one AVX-CA-AXPOST diode test jig. The
instrument mainframe is connected to the test jig using one coaxial cable and one DB-9
control cable. The test jig has a hinged lid, which must be fully closed to protect the
user from high voltages. The output will be automatically disabled if the lid is left open.
The AVX-CA-AXPOST has easy-to-use spring-loaded push-posts for axial packages
with body length of up to 0.2 ” (and diameters up to 0. ”), including DO-3 , DO-41 and
Microsemi Axial Type E packages (0.18 " x 0.13 " body, max). Lead bending is not
required to insert these packages.
The AVR-EB2A-B may also be provided with different or additional a customized test
jigs, to meet particular customer package requirements.
The output from the test jig must be connected (using the supplied cable and 20 dB
attenuator) to the 0 Ohm input of a high-bandwidth (> 1 GHz) user-supplied
oscilloscope. The voltage on the output is proportional to the current through the DUT.
By observing the current waveform through the DUT, the reverse recovery time may be
determined.
The AVR-EB2A-B includes an internal trigger source, but it can also be triggered or
gated by an external source. A front-panel pushbutton can also be used to trigger the
instrument.
The AVR-EB2A-B features front panel keyboard and adjust knob control of the output
pulse parameters along with a four line by 40-character backlit LCD display of the
output amplitude, pulse repetition frequency, and delay. The instrument includes
memory to store up to four complete instrument setups. The operator may use the front
panel or the computer interface to store a complete “snapshot” of all key instrument
settings, and recall this setup at a later time.
This instrument is intended for use in research, development, test and calibration
laboratories by qualified personnel.
7

SPECIFICATIONS
Model1: AVR-EB2A-B
Recovery type: Reverse recovery
Intended application: High-speed small-signal diodes
Basic waveform: Positive DC interrupted by a negative pulse
Pulse polarity: DC -
Voltage output2,4,6:
(to RL = 0Ω) +10V to +100V -1V to -24V
Corresponding diode current2,4
(approx., depends on VDIODE): +10 mA to +100 mA -10 mA to -100 mA
Pulse width (FWHM): DC 200 ns
Maximum duty cycle: N/A
Rise time (10%-90%): < 00 ps (without test jig), and typically 7 0 ps9 with jig and DUT installed.
Output impedance during pulse
(inside the mainframe): 0 Ohms
Maximum PRF: 10 kHz
Variable delay (sync out to main
out, unless noted): 0 to ±1s, variable
Included test jig3: Refer to manual text.
Connectors: Mainframe pulse output, Jig pulse input: SMA
TRIG, GATE, SYNC: BNC
GPIB & RS-232: Standard on -B units. See http://www.avtechpulse.com/gpib for details.
Ethernet port, for remote control
using VXI-11.3, ssh, telnet, & web:
Included. Recommended as a modern alternative to GPIB / RS-232.
See http://www.avtechpulse.com/options/vxi for details.
Settings resolution: The resolution of the timing parameters (pulse width, delay, period) varies,
but is always better than 0.1 % of (|set value| + 20 ns).
The amplitude resolution is < 0.1% of the maximum amplitude.
Settings accuracy: Typically ± 3% after 10 minute warmup, for timing parameter. For high-accuracy applications
requiring traceable calibration, verify the output parameters with a calibrated oscilloscope4,10.
Trigger modes: Internal trigger, external trigger (TTL level pulse, > 10 ns, 1 kΩ input impedance),
front-panel “Single Pulse” pushbutton, or single pulse trigger via computer command.
Sync output: > +3 Volts, > 0 ns, will drive 0 Ohm loads
Gate input: Active high or low, switchable. Suppresses triggering when active.
Power requirements: 100 - 240 Volts, 0 - 60 Hz
Dimensions: H x W x D: 100 mm x 430 mm x 37 mm (3.9” x 17” x 14.8”)
Chassis material: cast aluminum frame and handles, blue vinyl on aluminum cover plates
Temperature range: + °C to +40°C
1) -B suffix indicates IEEE-488.2 GPIB and RS-232 control of amplitude, pulse width, PRF and delay (see http://www.avtechpulse.com/gpib).
2) For operation at amplitudes of less than 10% of full-scale, best results will be obtained by setting the amplitude near full-scale and using external
attenuators on the output.
3) Customized jigs available upon request.
4) The amplitude settings should not be relied upon for any degree of accuracy, because the dynamics of the device under test can affect the actual
generated waveforms. Amplitude settings should always be verified by oscilloscope measurements.
) Thus the diode must come to forward steady-state within 00 ns.
6) The diode must have a breakdown voltage exceeding these amplitude limits. Contact Avtech for special arrangements if IMAX × 0Ω > VBR.
7) The full forward pulse width is 2 us, but the reverse pulse is super-imposed on the forward pulse 00 ns after the start of the forward pulse.
8) Increases to 4. ns for units with the -DIPFP option, due to the switching relay inductance.
9) Depends on the parasitic inductance of the DUT and its leads.
10)These instruments are provided with a basic calibration checksheet, showing a selection of measured output parameters. These measurements are
performed with equipment that is calibrated on a regular basis by a third-party ISO/IEC 1702 :200 accredited calibration laboratory. However,
Avtech itself does not claim any accreditation. For applications requiring traceable performance, use a calibrated measurement system rather than
relying on the accuracy of the pulse generator settings.
8

SPECIFICATIONS – INCLUDED TEST JIGS
Option Code Included Jig Typical Parasitic Inductance1, Description
standard AVX-CA-AXPOST < 20 nH Jig with easy-to-use spring-loaded push-posts for axial packages with body length of up to
0.2 ” (and diameters up to 0. ”), including DO-3 , DO-41 and Microsemi Axial Type E
packages (0.18 " x 0.13 " body, max). Lead bending is NOT required to insert these
packages.
-AR1 AVX-CA-AR1 < 20 nH Jig with customized Aries 9890-122-23 socket. Accepts:
1) Microsemi "Type E" axial packages (used in the 1N 418 and other devices)
2) Generic DO-41 packages (used in the 1N 819 and other devices)
3) Microsemi Type A square MELF, also called D- A (for example, 1N 806US)
4) Microsemi Type B square MELF, also called D- D (for example, 1N6701US)
) Microsemi Type E square MELF, also called D- B (for example, 1N 811US)
This jig supports a variety of devices, but better performance (i.e., cleaner waveforms
with fewer reflections) will be provided by jigs dedicated to specific packages (like the
AVX-CA-AXPOST). Contact a sales engineer for jig recommendations
([e-mail]).
Custom Custom < 20 nH No-solder jigs for various SMT packages (SOD-123, etc) can be provided as needed.
Contact Avtech with your specific requirement.
1. The parasitic inductance of the jig (L) will degrade the switching speeds based on the inductive time constant L/R, where R = 0 Ohms. For the
above jigs, this means the switching speeds at the hig are degraded by a < 0.4 ns time constant compared to the waveform at the mainframe output.
NOTE: All of the above jigs are suitable for light research and development use. Consult Avtech
([email protected]) regarding the suitability of particular jigs for heavy production use.
9

REGULATORY NOTES
FCC PART 18
This device complies with part 18 of the FCC rules for non-consumer industrial,
scientific and medical (ISM) equipment.
This instrument is enclosed in a rugged metal chassis and uses a filtered power entry
module (where applicable). The main output signal is provided on a shielded connector
that is intended to be used with shielded coaxial cabling and a shielded load. Under
these conditions, the interference potential of this instrument is low.
If interference is observed, check that appropriate well-shielded cabling is used on the
output connectors. Contact Avtech ([e-mail]) for advice if you are unsure
of the most appropriate cabling. Also, check that your load is adequately shielded. It
may be necessary to enclose the load in a metal enclosure.
If any of the connectors on the instrument are unused, they should be covered with
shielded metal “dust caps” to reduce the interference potential.
This instrument does not normally require regular maintenance to minimize interference
potential. However, if loose hardware or connectors are noted, they should be
tightened. Contact Avtech (in[email protected]) if you require assistance.
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We Avtech Electrosystems Ltd.
P.O. Box 120, LCD Merivale
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada K2C 3H
declare that this pulse generator meets the intent of Directive 2004/108/EG for
Electromagnetic Compatibility. Compliance pertains to the following specifications as
listed in the official Journal of the European Communities:
EN 0081-1 Emission
EN 0082-1 Immunity
10

and that this pulse generator meets the intent of the Low Voltage Directive 2006/9 /EC.
Compliance pertains to the following specifications as listed in the official Journal of the
European Communities:
EN 61010-1:2001 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement, control, and laboratory use
DIRECTIVE 2011/6 /EU (RoHS)
We Avtech Electrosystems Ltd.
P.O. Box 120, LCD Merivale
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada K2C 3H
declare that, to the best of our knowledge, all electrical and electronic equipment (EEE)
sold by the company are in compliance with Directive 2011/6 /EU of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2011 on the restriction of the use of certain
hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (also known as “RoHS
Recast”). In addition, this declaration of conformity is issued under the sole
responsibility of Avtech Electrosystems Ltd. Specifically, products manufactured do not
contain the substances listed in the table below in concentrations greater than the listed
maximum value.
Material/Substance hreshold level
Lead (Pb) < 1000 ppm (0.1% by mass)
Mercury (Hg) < 1000 ppm (0.1% by mass)
Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+) < 1000 ppm (0.1% by mass)
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB) < 1000 ppm (0.1% by mass)
Polybrominated Diphenyl ethers (PBDE) < 1000 ppm (0.1% by mass)
Cadmium (Cd) < 100 ppm (0.01% by mass)
DIRECTIVE 2002/96/EC (WEEE)
European customers who have purchased this equipment directly from Avtech will have
completed a “WEEE Responsibility Agreement” form, accepting responsibility for WEEE
compliance (as mandated in Directive 2002/96/EC of the European Union and local
laws) on behalf of the customer, as provided for under Article 9 of Directive
2002/96/EC.
Customers who have purchased Avtech equipment through local representatives
should consult with the representative to determine who has responsibility for WEEE
11

compliance. Normally, such responsibilities with lie with the representative, unless other
arrangements (under Article 9) have been made.
Requirements for WEEE compliance may include registration of products with local
governments, reporting of recycling activities to local governments, and financing of
recycling activities.
FIRMWARE LICENSING
Instruments with firmware versions .00 or higher use open-source software internally.
Some of this software requires that the source code be made available to the user as a
condition of its licensing. This source code is available upon request (contact
[email protected]om).
Earlier firmware versions do not contain any open source software.
12

INSTALLATION
VISUAL CHECK
After unpacking the instrument, examine to ensure that it has not been damaged in
shipment. Visually inspect all connectors, knobs, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), and the
handles. If the instrument has been damaged, file a claim immediately with the
company that transported the instrument.
The following items should be with the instrument:
1. One power cord.
2. One GPIB cable
3. Two instrumentation manuals (this manual and the “Programming Manual for -B
Instruments”).
4. One test jig, with a hinged lid.
. One 2m DB9 control cable.
6. Two 60cm SMA-to-SMA coaxial cables.
7. One 20 dB / 2 W attenuator.
8. One BNC(M)/SMA(F) adapter.
Customized units may included additional or modified test jigs.
POWER RATINGS
This instrument is intended to operate from 100 - 240 V, 0 - 60 Hz.
The maximum power consumption is 7 Watts. Please see the “FUSES” section for
information about the appropriate AC and DC fuses.
This instrument is an “Installation Category II” instrument, intended for operation from a
normal single-phase supply.
CONNECTION TO THE POWER SUPPLY
An IEC-320 three-pronged recessed male socket is provided on the back panel for AC
power connection to the instrument. One end of the detachable power cord that is
supplied with the instrument plugs into this socket. The other end of the detachable
power cord plugs into the local mains supply. Use only the cable supplied with the
instrument. The mains supply must be earthed, and the cord used to connect the
instrument to the mains supply must provide an earth connection. (The supplied cord
does this.)
Warning: Failure to use a grounded outlet may result in injury or death due to
electric shock. This product uses a power cord with a ground connection. It must be
13

connected to a properly grounded outlet. The instrument chassis is connected to the
ground wire in the power cord.
The table below describes the power cord that is normally supplied with this instrument,
depending on the destination region:
Destination Region Description Option Manufacturer Part Number
United Kingdom, Hong Kong,
Singapore, Malaysia
BS 1363,
230V, 0 Hz -AC00 Qualtek 370001-E01
Australia, New Zealand AS 3112:2000,
230-240V, 0 Hz -AC01 Qualtek 374003-A01
Continental Europe, Korea,
Indonesia, Russia
European CEE 7/7
“Schuko” 230V, 0 Hz -AC02 Qualtek 364002-D01
North America, Taiwan NEMA -1 ,
120V, 60 Hz -AC03 Qualtek 312007-01
Switzerland SEV 1011,
230V, 0 Hz -AC06 Qualtek 378001-E01
South Africa, India SABS 164-1,
220-2 0V, 0 Hz -AC17 Volex 2131H 10 C3
Japan JIS 8303,
100V, 0-60 Hz -AC18 Qualtek 397002-01
Israel SI 32,
220V, 0 Hz -AC19 Qualtek 398001-01
China GB 1002-1 / 2099-1,
220V, 0 Hz -AC22 Qualtek 399012-01
PROTECTION FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK
Operators of this instrument must be protected from electric shock at all times. The
owner must ensure that operators are prevented access and/or are insulated from
every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential
human contact. Operators must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of
electric shock. This instrument is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize
shock hazards and are familiar with safety precautions required to avoid possibly injury.
In particular, operators should:
1. Keep exposed high-voltage wiring to an absolute minimum.
2. Wherever possible, use shielded connectors and cabling.
3. Connect and disconnect loads and cables only when the instrument is turned off.
14

4. Keep in mind that all cables, connectors, oscilloscope probes, and loads must
have an appropriate voltage rating.
. Do not attempt any repairs on the instrument, beyond the fuse replacement
procedures described in this manual. Contact Avtech technical support (see
page 2 for contact information) if the instrument requires servicing. Service is to
be performed solely by qualified service personnel.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
This instrument is intended for use under the following conditions:
1. indoor use;
2. altitude up to 2 000 m;
3. temperature °C to 40 °C;
4. maximum relative humidity 80 % for temperatures up to 31 °C decreasing
linearly to 0 % relative humidity at 40 °C;
. Mains supply voltage fluctuations up to ±10 % of the nominal voltage;
6. no pollution or only dry, non-conductive pollution.
1

FUSES
This instrument contains four fuses. All are accessible from the rear-panel. Two protect
the AC prime power input, and two protect the internal DC power supplies. The
locations of the fuses on the rear panel are shown in the figure below:
AC FUSE REPLACEMENT
To physically access the AC fuses, the power cord must be detached from the rear
panel of the instrument. The fuse drawer may then be extracted using a small flat-head
screwdriver, as shown below:
Fuses #1 and #2
(AC fuses)
Fuse #4
(DC fuse)
Fuse #3
(DC fuse)
Fuse
Drawer
Pry out the fuse
drawer using a
screwdriver.
16

DC FUSE REPLACEMENT
The DC fuses may be replaced by inserting the tip of a flat-head screwdriver into the
fuse holder slot, and rotating the slot counter-clockwise. The fuse and its carrier will
then pop out.
FUSE RATINGS
The following table lists the required fuses:
Fuses
Nominal
Mains
Voltage
Rating Case Size
Recommended Replacement Part
Littelfuse Part
Number
Digi-Key Stock
Number
#1, #2 (AC) 100-240V 0. A, 2 0V,
Time-Delay ×20 mm 0218. 00HXP F2416-ND
#3 (DC) N/A 1.0A, 2 0V,
Time-Delay ×20 mm 0218001.HXP F2419-ND
#4 (DC) N/A 1.0A, 2 0V,
Time-Delay ×20 mm 0218001.HXP F2419-ND
The recommended fuse manufacturer is Littelfuse (http://www.littelfuse.com).
Replacement fuses may be easily obtained from Digi-Key (http://www.digikey.com) and
other distributors.
17

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS
1. POWER Switch . This is the main power switch. When turning the instrument on,
there is normally a delay of 10 seconds before anything is shown on the main
display, as the internal operating system boots up.
If the main menu does not appear after 30 seconds, turn off the instrument and
leave it off for at least 60 seconds before applying power again.
2. OVERLOAD Indicator . When the instrument is powered, this indicator is normally
green, indicating normal operation. If this indicator is yellow, an internal automatic
overload protection circuit has been tripped. If the unit is overloaded (by operating at
an exceedingly high duty cycle or by operating into a very low impedance), the
protective circuit will disable the output of the instrument and turn the indicator light
yellow. The light will stay yellow (i.e. output disabled) for about seconds after
which the instrument will attempt to re-enable the output (i.e. light green) for
abOUT1 second. If the overload condition persists, the output will be disabled again
(i.e. light yellow) for another seconds. If the overload condition has been removed,
the instrument will resume normal operation.
This overload indicator may flash yellow briefly at start-up. This is not a cause for
concern.
3. SYNC OUT . This connector supplies a SYNC output that can be used to trigger
other equipment, particularly oscilloscopes. This signal leads (or lags) the main
output by a duration set by the "DELAY" controls and has an approximate amplitude
of +3 Volts to RL > 0Ω with a pulse width of approximately 100 ns.
4. LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY (LCD) . This LCD is used in conjunction with the
keypad to change the instrument settings. Normally, the main menu is displayed,
which lists the key adjustable parameters and their current values. The
“Programming Manual for -B Instruments” describes the menus and submenus in
23
4
1
18

detail.
. KEYPAD .
Control Name Function
MOVE This moves the arrow pointer on the display.
CHANGE This is used to enter the submenu, or to select the operating
mode, pointed to by the arrow pointer.
×10 If one of the adjustable numeric parameters is displayed, this
increases the setting by a factor of ten.
÷10 If one of the adjustable numeric parameters is displayed, this
decreases the setting by a factor of ten.
+/- If one of the adjustable numeric parameters is displayed, and
this parameter can be both positive or negative, this changes
the sign of the parameter.
EXTRA FINE This changes the step size of the ADJUST knob. In the extra-
fine mode, the step size is twenty times finer than in the normal
mode. This button switches between the two step sizes.
ADJUST This large knob adjusts the value of any displayed numeric
adjustable values, such as frequency, pulse width, etc. The
adjust step size is set by the "EXTRA FINE" button.
When the main menu is displayed, this knob can be used to
move the arrow pointer.
19

REAR PANEL CONTROLS
Note: some connectors may be in different positions than shown above, depending on
the exact combination of options ordered.
1. AC POWER INPUT . An IEC-320 C14 three-pronged recessed male socket is
provided on the back panel for AC power connection to the instrument. One end of
the detachable power cord that is supplied with the instrument plugs into this socket.
2. AC FUSE DRAWER . The two fuses that protect the AC input are located in this
drawer. Please see the “FUSES” section of this manual for more information.
3. DC FUSES . These two fuses protect the internal DC power supplies. Please see the
“FUSES” sections of this manual for more information.
4. GATE . This TTL-level (0 and + V) logic input can be used to gate the triggering of
the instrument. This input can be either active high or active low, depending on the
front panel settings or programming commands. (The instrument triggers normally
when this input is unconnected). When set to active high mode, this input is pulled-
down to ground by a 1 kΩ resistor. When set to active low mode, this input is pulled-
up to + V by a 1 kΩ resistor.
. TRIG . This TTL-level (0 and + V) logic input can be used to trigger the instrument, if
the instrument is set to triggering externally. The instrument triggers on the rising
edge of this input. The input impedance of this input is 1 kΩ. (Depending on the
length of cable attached to this input, and the source driving it, it may be desirable to
add a coaxial 0 Ohm terminator to this input to provide a proper transmission line
termination. The Pasternack (www.pasternack.com) PE6008- 0 BNC feed-thru 0
4
7
6
1
9
2
3
10
20
OUT
CONTROL
GATE
RS-232
GPIB
TRIG
8