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.

Model 577 Operating Manual 7
4.1.2 Keypad (Pushbuttons)
Three keypad areas provide fast access to various menus and easy editing of system parameters.
Blue Soft Keys
Provide one touch access to the menus for setting up the System and channel
parameters. Pressing the appropriate Blue Soft Key will display the sub-menu
containing the corresponding parameters.
Arrow Keypad
The left (◄) and right (►) arrow keys move the cursor to different positions
within the currently selected parameter. The Next key selects the next
parameter in the currently displayed menu
Numeric Keypad
The number keypad allows parameters to be entered in a numeric format.
Standby/Power ( )
Pressing the Standby/Power button will turn on/off the device and will save the
current parameters before shutting down.
Run/Stop
Pressing the Run/Stop will arm/disarm the system and begin generating
pulses if in the correct mode. If in triggered mode the system will be armed but
will not output pulses until a valid trigger.
4.1.3 Rotary Adjustment Knob
The Rotary Adjustment Knob may be used to adjust the currently selected parameter. The step size is controlled
by the position of the cursor; however, turning the knob faster will increase the step size. Pushing the knob will
perform functions similar to the Next key and select the next parameter in the currently displayed menu.
4.1.4 BNC Connectors
One Gate Input (GATE), one Trigger Input (TRIG), and up to 8 Channel Outputs are available on the front of the
unit.

Model 577 Operating Manual 8
5 Model 577 Rear Panel Overview
5.1 Layout and Connectors
The Model 577 rear panel has power input, clock in and out, and communication connections.
5.1.1 AC Power Connector
The Model 577 can be operated from 100 to 240 V at a line frequency of 50-60 Hz.
5.1.2 Power Switch
If this switch is used to turn the Model 577 off, changes that have been made to data or parameters will not be
saved.
5.1.3 BNC Connectors
External Clock input (CLK IN), and External Clock output (CLK OUT), are standard. The input clock connector
accepts 10 MHz to 100 MHz in user selectable, discrete values. The clock output connector provides T0or Ref out
(10 MHz to 100 MHz) in user selectable, discrete values.
5.1.4 USB Port
A female USB B connector is standard to the Model 577 and used to control the device with a computer.
5.1.5 RS-232 Port
A female DB-9 connector using RS-232 serial protocol is standard to the Model 577 and used to control the
device with a computer.
5.1.6 Ethernet Port
A RJ45 Ethernet connector is available to control the Model 577 with a computer.
5.1.7 GPIB Port
An IEEE 488 connector is available to control the Model 577 with a computer.

Model 577 Operating Manual 9
6 Navigating the 577 Front Panel
6.1 Selecting Menus
Parameters are grouped in menus, selectable using the Blue Soft Keys, the Next key, and a Rotary Adjustment
Knob. For example, to select the output channel parameters, press the Blue Soft Key corresponding to the
Channel menu. When the Blue Soft Key is pressed, a submenu will appear containing the corresponding
Channels. These may be navigated to, and selected by, the use of the Next key and/or the Rotary Adjustment
Knob. This menu hierarchy and navigation/selection is consistent with Channel menus, System menus, etc.
6.2 Selecting Menu Items
Within a submenu, the highlighted item indicates the current menu item for selecting. Pressing the Next key or the
rotary knob will select the item while rotating the Rotary Adjustment Knob will move the cursor to a different
submenu item.
6.3 Numeric Input Mode
When the current parameter is numeric, the system enters the Numeric Input Mode. In this mode data may be
edited in one of three ways. Using the arrow keypad, the left (◄)and right (►)arrow keys are used to select a
digit to edit. The selected digit will be underlined by a blinking cursor to identify it as the active digit. The Rotary
Adjustment Knob may be used to increment and decrement this digit. The adjustment knob features speed
dependent resolution. Slow rotation will increment or decrement the active digit by one. As you increase the
speed of rotation, the parameter will be 10 to 1000 times faster depending on the speed.
An additional entry mode is using the numeric keypad. Enter the number, including decimal point using the
numeric keypad. Complete the entry by pressing the Enter () key.
6.4 Entering Non-Numeric Parameters
When the current menu item is non-numeric, Blue Soft Keys are used to select among different options for the
parameter. The Rotary Adjustment Knob may also be used to change the selection. If the item is an on-off toggle,
the Blue Soft Keys enable and disable the item.

Model 577 Operating Manual 10
7 577 Menu Structure
7.1 The Screen at a Glance
The screen has several areas of interest to the user. The information above the blue line always appears on the
screen, and information below the blue line will change with the selected menu or screen. First is the Status in the
upper left hand corner. This shows if the unit is armed or generating pulses. If the red circle is hollow, as in the
picture below, then the unit is not armed, but if the circle is blinking hollow, then filled, the unit is armed and
waiting for a trigger or currently generating output pulses. Next is the System Configuration area. This is just right
of the Status and it displays the current System Mode (Continuous, Single Shot, Burst, or Duty Cycle mode), and
the T0source (internally or externally generated). Just to the right of the System Configuration is the channel area.
In this section of the screen the user can quickly determine if a channel is enabled or disabled. If a channel is
white the channel is enabled, and if gray, the channel is disabled.
On the bottom of the screen is the Soft Key/Menu area. This section of the screen shows what menus are
available, and in some cases, what functions can be invoked. In the middle of the screen is the Setup area. This
is where all of the user changeable items will appear. This information will change with each menu selected.
7.2 System Mode Menus
7.2.1 Selecting the Desired Menu
The 577 has a built-in set of menus that can be accessed by pressing the right-most soft key. This sub-menu will
allow the user to return to the System menu, select the Channel and Output menus, enable and configure a Gate
or Trigger signal, Save or Recall previous settings, and change the Communications and Configuration settings.
The Menu soft key sub-menu also has selections for device specific information such as serial number and
firmware versions.

Model 577 Operating Manual 11
7.2.2 Setting System Mode of Operation
The Mode soft key selects the mode for the T0System Timer. The display will show additional parameters choices
(Burst, On, Off, etc.) only when they are appropriate.
Mode: Selects the T0System Timer mode: Continuous, Single Shot, Burst or Duty Cycle.
Continuous: Once started, T0pulses are generated continuously. Select the rate of the pulses to be
generated

Model 577 Operating Manual 12
Single Shot: One T0pulse is generated for each start command.
Burst: Sets the number of pulses to be generated when in Burst mode.

Model 577 Operating Manual 13
Duty Cycle: Allows T0rate to be a sub-multiple of the Clock Source.
On: Sets the number of pulses to be generated during each “On”cycle when in Duty Cycle
mode.
Off: Sets the number of pulses to skip during each “Off” cycle when in the Duty Cycle mode.
*NOTE: Any mode may be started by the RUN/STOP key when the Trigger Input is disabled. Any mode may be
armed by the RUN/STOP key, and then started by an external trigger when the Trigger Input is enabled. When in
Single Shot or Burst modes (and if the Trigger Input is disabled) the unit disarms itself at the end of the pulse
train. Pressing the RUN/STOP key after the unit has been disarmed will generate a new pulse train. If in triggered
mode the unit will not disarm so that multiple sets of pulses may be generated without user intervention.
7.2.3 Setting the Internal Reference Source and Rate
Not only does the 577 have the ability to be timed by using the internally generated clock, it also has the ability to
be timed by an externally connected Clock Source within a range of common frequencies. If the user frequency is
not listed a different frequency can be used, but the user cannot put in a faster frequency than the selection made
on the soft key. In other words if you have a 35 MHz signal you must tell the 577 to look for a 40 MHz or higher,
any choice below that will result in unpredictable results.
. Osc: Selects the internal or external Clock Source from which the unit will operate.
To: Sets the T0period (or rate) which determines the fundamental output frequency of the unit.

Model 577 Operating Manual 14
7.2.4 Setting the Output Reference
The 577 also has the ability to output a clock signal to an external unit if so desired. The user can choose from
any of the preset frequencies as well as outputting the T0signal. If the unit is in external input mode and a
different frequency is input than what the 577 is told to expect, the output would be a factor of the expected
frequency.
Ref: Selects the frequency of the output reference for synchronizing with external system components.
7.2.5 Rearming the System
The 577 has the functionality built in to reset the internal channel timers with the press of a soft key or by sending
a simple command. When the unit is used in a channel single shot mode (i.e. single shot or burst mode) or
externally triggered the desired pulse train will be produced then the unit will remain armed but not producing
pulses. With the ReArm capability the pulses on the single shot channels can be reproduced without disruption of
the continuous channels. This function is also useful when in external trigger mode and channels are in a single
shot mode to produce additional pulses.
7.2.6 Setting the Shot Counter Parameters
The 577 has the ability to count pulses, whether it be from an internal source or indirectly from an external source.
This is a 32 bit counter so the maximum number it can count to is (232) 4,294,967,296. If the counter is to be used
on an internal source simply choose the source form the soft key (T0or CH [A-H]). The counter can also be set up
to count external pulse by either setting the system or channel to triggered mode and single shot modes. The
Counter menu can be accessed by pressing the Ctr soft key while in the System menu page. From the Counter
page the counter source can be selected, the counter can be enabled, disabled, and can be cleared.

Model 577 Operating Manual 15
7.3 Channel Menus
7.3.1 Enabling Channel Output
At the top of the Setup area on each of the Channel Menu page is a parameter to Enable or Disable the displayed
channel. Each channel may be individually controlled. Each channel is listed in the Status area at the top of the
page. If a channel is displayed in white, it is enabled. If a channel is displayed in gray, the channel is disabled.
7.3.2 Channel Menu in Burst Mode
The Burst Mode Channel Menu page includes an additional parameter to set the number of pulses in the burst.

Model 577 Operating Manual 1
7.3.3 Channel Menu in Duty Cycle Mode
The Duty Cycle Mode Channel page includes additional parameters to set the number of On pulses and the
number of Off pulses.
7.3.4 Channel Page Sub-Menus
When in the Channel Menu page the soft key sub-menu options will change. The left most soft key allows the
user to select the particular channel to be displayed. The next soft key is a function key that toggles the display
between the Output page and the Channel page (it will not bring up a sub menu). The third soft key is used to set
the Channel Mode (Normal, Single Shot, Burst, or Duty Cycle).
7.3.5 Sync Menu
Although each channel receives its start pulse from the internal T0pulse, the start pulse can be assigned such
that it is relative to the T0pulse or relative to any other channel pulse. This allows the ability to link dependent
events. The entered delay value is relative to the selected sync source. This source can be changed by pressing
the Sync soft key while in the Channel Menu page.
It is important to note that the 577 will not allow a circular chain of sync sources that would result in a channel
triggering itself.