BNC 577 User manual

Operating Manual Version 0.10
Model 577
Pulse Generator
Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation
2955 Kerner Blvd.
San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.berkeleynucleonics.com

Firmware Release 1.00
Manual Version 0.10
© 2013 All rights reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
WARRANTY
In addition to a 30-day money back guarantee, the 577 has a two-year limited warranty from the date of delivery. This warranty covers defects
in materials and workmanship. If repairs are required during the warranty period, contact the factory for component replacement or shipping
instructions. Include the serial number of the instrument. This warranty is void if the unit is repaired or altered by others than those authorized
by Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation.
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
NOTIFICATION OF COPYRIGHT
THE FIRMWARE IN THIS DEVICE IS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT LAWS AND INTERNATIONAL TREATY. YOU MUST TREAT THE
FIRMWARE LIKE ANY OTHER COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL. COPYRIGHT LAWS PROHIBIT MAKING ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THE
FIRMWARE FOR ANY REASON OTHER THAN SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED IN THE LICENSE BELOW. YOU MAY NOT COPY THE
WRITTEN MATERIALS ACCOMPANYING THE PRODUCT.

Model 577 Operating Manual i
Table of Contents
PULSE GENERATOR .................................................................................................................................. 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................................. I
1 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 TECHNICAL SUPPORT............................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 WARRANTY ........................................................................................................................................ 1
1.3 PACKAGE CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................ 1
1.3.1 Unpacking Caution.................................................................................................................. 2
1.3.2 Tilt Stand Arm ......................................................................................................................... 2
2SAFETY ISSUES.................................................................................................................................. 3
3PULSE CONCEPTS AND OPERATIONS ................................................................................................ 4
3.1 COUNTER ARCHITECTURE OVERVIEW....................................................................................................... 4
3.2 SYSTEM TIMER FUNCTIONS.................................................................................................................... 4
3.3 CHANNEL TIMER FUNCTIONS ................................................................................................................. 4
3.4 DIGITAL OUTPUT MULTIPLEXER.............................................................................................................. 5
3.5 DEPENDENT &INDEPENDENT TIMING EVENTS........................................................................................... 5
4MODEL 577 FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW.............................................................................................. 6
4.1 DISPLAY LAYOUT AND INDICATORS .......................................................................................................... 6
4.1.1 LCD Screen .............................................................................................................................. 6
4.1.2 Keypad (Pushbuttons)............................................................................................................. 7
4.1.3 Rotary Adjustment Knob......................................................................................................... 7
4.1.4 BNC Connectors ...................................................................................................................... 7
5MODEL 577 REAR PANEL OVERVIEW ................................................................................................ 8
5.1 LAYOUT AND CONNECTORS.................................................................................................................... 8
5.1.1 AC Power Connector ............................................................................................................... 8
5.1.2 Power Switch .......................................................................................................................... 8
5.1.3 BNC Connectors ...................................................................................................................... 8
5.1.4 USB Port.................................................................................................................................. 8
5.1.5 RS-232 Port ............................................................................................................................. 8
5.1.6 Ethernet Port .......................................................................................................................... 8
5.1.7 GPIB Port................................................................................................................................. 8
6NAVIGATING THE 577 FRONT PANEL ................................................................................................ 9
6.1 SELECTING MENUS .............................................................................................................................. 9
6.2 SELECTING MENU ITEMS....................................................................................................................... 9
6.3 NUMERIC INPUT MODE ........................................................................................................................ 9
6.4 ENTERING NON-NUMERIC PARAMETERS.................................................................................................. 9
7577 MENU STRUCTURE................................................................................................................... 10
7.1 THE SCREEN AT A GLANCE ................................................................................................................... 10
7.2 SYSTEM MODE MENUS ...................................................................................................................... 10
7.2.1 Selecting the Desired Menu .................................................................................................. 10
7.2.2 Setting System Mode of Operation....................................................................................... 11
7.2.3 Setting the Internal Reference Source and Rate ................................................................... 13
7.2.4 Setting the Output Reference ............................................................................................... 14

Model 577 Operating Manual ii
7.2.5 Rearming the System ............................................................................................................ 14
7.2.6 Setting the Shot Counter Parameters ................................................................................... 14
7.3 CHANNEL MENUS.............................................................................................................................. 15
7.3.1 Enabling Channel Output...................................................................................................... 15
7.3.2 Channel Menu in Burst Mode ............................................................................................... 15
7.3.3 Channel Menu in Duty Cycle Mode......................................................................................... 1
7.3.4 Channel Page Sub-Menus ....................................................................................................... 1
7.3.5 Sync Menu .............................................................................................................................. 1
7.3.6 Output Menu ........................................................................................................................ 20
7.3.7 Channel Multiplexer.............................................................................................................. 20
7.4 OTHER SYSTEM MENUS ...................................................................................................................... 20
7.4.1 Gate or Trigger Input Menu.................................................................................................. 20
7.4.2 Saving and Loading Configurations ...................................................................................... 21
7.4.3 Communication Configurations ............................................................................................ 20
7.4.4 Configuration Menu.............................................................................................................. 20
7.4.5 Information Menus ............................................................................................................... 20
8REMOTE COMMUNICATION ........................................................................................................... 19
8.1 RS-232 INTERFACE............................................................................................................................ 19
8.2 USB INTERFACE ................................................................................................................................ 19
8.3 GPIB INTERFACE ............................................................................................................................... 20
8.4 ETHERNET INTERFACE ......................................................................................................................... 20
8.4.1 IP Address and Raw TCP/IP Connection ................................................................................ 20
8.4.2 Determining IP Address ........................................................................................................ 20
8.4.3 Setting the 577 to Raw TCP Protocol .................................................................................... 21
8.5 PROGRAMMING COMMAND TYPES AND FORMAT .................................................................................... 22
8.5.1 Line Termination ................................................................................................................... 22
8.5.2 IEEE 488.2 Common Command Format................................................................................ 22
8.5.3 SCPI Command Format ......................................................................................................... 22
8.5.4 SCPI Keyword Separator ....................................................................................................... 23
8.5.5 SCPI Optional Keywords........................................................................................................ 23
8.5.6 SCPI Specific and Implied Channel ........................................................................................ 23
8.5.7 SCPI Parameter Types ........................................................................................................... 23
8.5.8 Error Codes ........................................................................................................................... 24
8.6 577 COMMANDS (SCPI COMMAND SUMMARY)..................................................................................... 25
9OPTION DT15 (DUAL TRIGGER)....................................................................................................... 30
9.1 ENABLING SYSTEM TRIGGER ................................................................................................................ 30
10 OPTION AT35 (35V OUTPUT / FAST RISE).................................................................................... 31
11 OPTION TZ50 (TTL IMPEDANCE MATCHING) ............................................................................... 32
12 OPTION AT45 (45V OUTPUT) ...................................................................................................... 33
12.1 AT45 PROTECTION ERROR MESSAGES .................................................................................................. 33
12.1.1 Module Errors ....................................................................................................................... 20
12.1.2 System Limit Error................................................................................................................. 20
12.2 VOLTAGE CHANGE TIMING .................................................................................................................. 20
12.3 AT45 SCPI COMMAND EXTENSION SUMMARY....................................................................................... 21
13 SAFETY MARKING SYMBOLS ....................................................................................................... 25
14 MODEL 577 SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................... 27

Model 577 Operating Manual 1
1 Introduction
This manual is a reference designed to familiarize you with the BNC Model 577 Series Pulse Generator and is
arranged so that you can easily find the information you’re looking for. Generally, each topic has its own section
and no section assumes that you’ve read anything else in the manual.
Technical specifications including electrical ratings and weight are included within the manual. See the Table of
Contents to locate the specifications and other product information. The following classifications are standard
across all BNC Test and Measurement products.
Indoor use only
Ordinary Protection: This product is NOT protected against the harmful ingress of moisture.
Class 1 Equipment (grounded type)
Main supply voltage fluctuations are not to exceed +/-10% of the nominal supply voltage.
Pollution Degree II
Installation (overvoltage) Category II for transient overvoltage events
Maximum Relative Humidity: 0-80% RH, non-condensing
Operating temperature range of 0 oC to 40 oC
Storage and transportation temperature of -40 oC to 70 oC
Maximum altitude: 2000 m (6562 ft.)
This equipment is suitable for continuous operation.
Cleaning Instructions: Light dusting with cloth damp with water and/or usage of compressed air is all that
is needed.
1.1 Technical Support
For questions or comments about operating the Model 577 our technical staff can be reached via one of the
following methods:
• Phone - [phone]
• Fax - [phone]
• Email – [e-mail]
• Internet - www.berkeleynucleonics.com
1.2 Warranty
In addition to a 30-day money back guarantee, the model 577 has a two-year limited warranty from the date of
delivery. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. If repairs are required during the warranty
period, contact the factory for component replacement or shipping instructions. Include the serial number of the
instrument. This warranty is void if the unit is repaired or altered by others than those authorized by Berkeley
Nucleonics Corporation.
1.3 Package Contents
The box you receive should contain the following:
•Model 577 Digital Delay / Pulse Generator
•AC Power Cord
•Disk that includes
Operating Manual
Software Drivers
Communication Software
Contact BNC [phone] if any parts are missing.

Model 577 Operating Manual 2
1.3.1 Unpacking Caution
The Model 577 is shipped in an antistatic package to prevent electrostatic damage to the device. Electrostatic
discharge (ESD) can damage several components on the device. Remove the device from the package and
inspect the device for loose components or any sign of damage. Notify BNC if the device appears damaged in
any way.
Caution:
Be sure that your incoming line is between 100 V to 240 V, 50-60 Hz.
1.3.2 Tilt Stand Arm
The Model 577 has been shipped with a Tilt Arm that is designed to be used as an adjustable tilt selector only.
The Arm is not to be used as a handle for moving or carrying the unit. If the 577 it to be moved please pick it up
by supporting the entire unit with your hands. If the 577 is carried or moved by the Arm and it breaks in the
process BNC is not responsible for repair or replacement of the handle or any damage incurred by the
subsequent fall.

Model 577 Operating Manual 3
2 Safety Issues
The 577 has built in equipment protections to prevent harm to the unit and the user, if the equipment is used in a
manner not specified by the manufacturer the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Normal use of test equipment presents a certain amount of danger due to electrical shock because it may be
necessary for testing to be performed where voltage is exposed.
An electrical shock causing 10 milliamps of current to pass through the heart will stop most human heartbeats.
Voltage as low as 35 VDC or 35 VRMS AC, should be considered dangerous and hazardous, as it can produce a
lethal current under certain conditions. Higher voltages pose an even greater threat because such voltage can
easily produce a lethal current. Your normal work habits should include all accepted practices that will prevent
contact with exposed high voltage and steer current away from your heart in case of accidental contact with a
high voltage. You will significantly reduce the risk factor if you know and observe the following safety precautions:
• If possible, familiarize yourself with the equipment being tested and the location of its high-voltage points.
However, remember that high voltage may appear at unexpected points in defective equipment.
• Do not expose high voltage needlessly. Remove housing and covers only when necessary. Turn off equipment
while making test connections in high- voltage circuits. Discharge high-voltage capacitors after shutting down
power.
• When testing AC powered equipment, remember that AC line voltage is usually present on power input circuits,
such as the on-off switch, fuses, power transformer, etc.
• Use an insulated floor material or a large, insulated floor mat to stand on, and an insulated work surface on
which to place equipment. Make certain such surfaces are not damp or wet.
• Use the time-proven “one hand in the pocket” technique while handling an instrument probe. Be particularly
careful to avoid contact with metal objects that could provide a good ground return path.
• Never work alone. Someone should always be nearby to render aid if necessary. Training in CPR first aid is
highly recommended.

Model 577 Operating Manual 4
3 Pulse Concepts and Operations
3.1 Counter Architecture Overview
Signal Source
3.2 System Timer Functions
The System Timer functions as a non-retriggerable, multi-vibrator pulse generator. This means that once started,
depending on the mode, the timer will produce pulses continuously. Before pulses can be generated, the timer
must first be armed and then receive a start pulse. Arming the counter is done by pressing the Run/Stop key.
With external trigger disabled, the Run/Stop key also generates the start command for the counter. With external
trigger enabled, the external trigger provides the start pulse. In either case, once started, the counter operation is
determined by the System Mode Generator. Standard modes include:
Continuous
Once started T0pulses are generated continuously.
Single Shot
One T0pulse is generated for each start command.
Burst
‘n’ T0pulses are generated for each start command.
Duty Cycle
Once started T0pulses cycle on and off continuously.
The T0pulses are distributed to all of the start inputs of the Channel Timers and Mode Generators
3.3 Channel Timer Functions
The Channel Timer functions as a non-retriggerable, delayed, one shot pulse generator. This means that the
timer will only generate one delayed pulse for every start pulse received. Once the channel timer has started
counting, additional start pulses will be ignored until the pulse has been completed (non-retriggerable). The start
pulse for each channel is provided by the internal T0pulse generated by the Internal System Timer. Whether or
not a pulse is generated for each T0pulse is determined by the Channel Mode Generator. Standard modes
include:
Normal
A pulse is generated for each T0pulse.
Single Shot
One pulse is generated at the first T0pulse, after which the output is
inhibited.
Burst
A pulse is generated for each T0pulse, 'n' times, after which the output is
inhibited.
Duty Cycle
‘n’ pulses are generated for each T0pulse after which the output is inhibited
for ‘m’ times. The cycle is then repeated.
Different modes may be selected for each output, allowing a wide variety of output combinations. Each output
may also be independently disabled or gated (using the external gate input).

Model 577 Operating Manual 5
3.4 Digital Output Multiplexer
The outputs of the Channel Timers are routed to a set of multiplexers. This allows routing of any or all Channel
Timers to any or all of the unit outputs. In the normal mode of operation, the output of the Channel “x” Timer is
routed to the Channel “x” output connector. As an example, if a double pulse is required on Channel A output,
one may multiplex the Channel A timer with the Channel C timer adjusting each timer to provide the necessary
pulses. Only timing parameters are multiplexed together, not amplitudes.
-HGFE DCBA-
Mux: -0000 0101-
The multiplexer is represented by a “n” bit binary number as shown above. “n” is the number of channels. Each bit
represents a channel timer, which is enabled by setting the bit to one. In the above example, timers A and C are
combined on the current output.
3.5 Dependent & Independent Timing Events
The 577 allows the user to control the relationship between the Channel Timers by setting the sync source for
each timer. Independent events are all timed relative to the internal T0start pulse. Dependent events may be
linked together by setting the sync source to the controlling event. This allows the instrument to match the timed
events and adjustments can be made in one event without detuning the timing between it and a dependent event.
For example, the Channel A timer and the Channel B timer may each be selected to use T0as their sync source,
whereas the Channel C timer may be selected to use Channel A as its sync source so that it is dependent upon
the output of Channel A. A user may elect to individually alter Channel A or Channel B timer settings as
necessary for an application without having to also alter Channel C. The function of Channel C will continue to be
dependent with respect to the function of Channel A.

Model 577 Operating Manual 6
4 Model 577 Front Panel Overview
4.1 Display Layout and Indicators
The Model 577 front panel has a keyboard, rotary adjustment knob, and a LCD display that allows the user to
program all settings.
4.1.1 LCD Screen
A 3”, 240x400 pixel TFT module displays all parameters and status information. The status information is located
in the upper portion of the display. Parameters are changed via pushbutton and rotary adjustment menu control.
An arrow on the left side of the screen is an indicator that there are additional parameters to that page. A blinking
red circle in the upper left is an indication that the system is currently generating pulses or actively waiting for an
external trigger. The brightness may be adjusted allowing the instrument to be used under various lighting
conditions.