Keithley 3930A User manual

Model 3930A
Multifunction Synthesizer
Operator’s Manual
Contains Operating and Servicing Information

WARRANTY
Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for aperiod of 1year from date of
shipment.
Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment: probes, cables, rechargeable batteries,
diskettes. and documentation.
During the warranty period, we will, at our option, either repair or replace any product that proves to be defective.
To exercise this warranty, write or call your local Keithley representative, or contact Keithley headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. You will
he given prompt assistance and return instructions. Send the product, transportation prepaid, to the indicated service facility. Repairs
will be made and the product returned, transportation prepaid. Repaired or replaced products are warranted for the balance of the origi-
nal warranty period, or at least 90 days.
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY
This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification without Keithley’s express written consent, or misuse of
any product or pti. This warranty also does not apply lo fuses, software, non-rechargeable batteries, damage from battery leakage, or
problems arising from normal wear OI failure to follow instructions,
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE. THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE
BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.
NEITHER KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDI-
RECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF ITS INSTRUMENTS AND
SOFTWARE EVEN IF KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC., HAS BEEN ADVISED IN ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF
SUCH DAMAGES. SUCH EXCLUDED DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COSTS OF REMOVAL
AND INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF INJURY TO ANY PERSON, OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

Model 3930A Multifunction Synthesizer
Operator’s Manual
0 1991, Kcithlcy Instruments, Inc.
Test Instrumentation Group
All rights reserved.
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
August 1991, First Printing
Document Number: 3930A-900-01 Rev. A

All Keithley product namesare trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Safetv Precautions
The following safety precautions should be observed before using the Model 3930A Multifunction Synthesizer and any
associated instruments.
This instrument is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety
precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read over this manual carefully before using the instrument.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present at the te.stcircuit. The American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30V nns or 4.2.4V peak are present. A good
safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any unknown circuit before measuring.
Inspect the connecting cables and test leads for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.
For maximum safety, do not touch the test cables or any instruments while power is applied to the circuit under test.
Turn off the power and discharge any capacitors before connecting or disconnecting cables from the instrument.
Do not touch any object which could provide a current path to the commc~n side of the circuit under test or power line
(earth) ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on adry, insulated surface capable of with-
standing the voltage being measured.
Instrumentation and accessories should not be connected to humans.

Table of Contents
SECTION 1 - General Information
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.6.1
1.6.2
1.6.3
1.6.4
1.7
1.8
INTRODUCTION .....................
FEATURES ..........................
WARRANTY INFORMATION ...........
MANUAL ADDENDA
SAFETY TERMS AND SYMBOLS .........
UNPACKING AND REPACKING ........
Unpacking ........................
shipment contents ..................
Operator’s Manual ..................
Repacking For Shipment ..............
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES .............
SPECIFICATIONS ....................
SECTION 2 - Getting Started
2.1
2.2
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.3
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.4
2.5
2.5.1
2.5.2
2.5.3
INTRODUCTION ..................
INSTALLATION ..................
Installation Location ..............
Fan ...........................
LINE POWER SUPPLY ..............
LINE Voltage Selector Switch .......
Line Receptacle Connection .........
Line Fuse ......................
HANDLING PRECAUTIONS .........
BASIC OPERATION ................
Front Panel Summary .............
Typical Test Connections ..........
Operating Examples ..............
...........................
...........................
...........................
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1-l
1-l
l-2
l-2
l-2
l-2
1-2
1-2
l-2
l-3
l-3
l-3
2-l
2-l
2-1
2-l
2-2
2-2
2-2
2-2
2-3
2-3
2-3
2-3
2-5
SECTION 3 - Operation
3.1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................. 3-l
3.2 FRONT PANEL AND REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION ................................... 3-l
3.2.1 Front Panel Description. ....................................................... 3-l
3.2.2 RearPanelDescription ........................................................ 3-12
3.3 Input and Output Connections .................................................... 3-13
3.3.1 InputConnections ........................................................... 3-13
3.3.2 outputConnections.. ........................................................ 3-14
3.4 STARTUP .................................................................... 3-15
3.5 OPERATINGPROCEDURES ..................................................... 3-16
3.5.1 Setting Parameters Using Numeric Keys ........................................... 3-16

3.5.2 Setting Parameters using MODIFY .............................
3.5.3 ErrorCodes ..............................................
3.5.4 UnitsConversion ..........................................
3.5.5 Frequency Programming .....................................
3.5.6 Output Amplitude and Amplitude Modulation ....................
3.5.7 DC Offset Programming .....................................
3.5.8 Waveform Selection, Square-Wave Duty Cycle, and Synchronous Output
3.5.9 OscillationMode ...........................................
3.5.10 Trigger Parameters (Source, Rate, Burst Cycle, and Phase) ............
3.5.11 Frequency Sweep Operation ..................................
3.5.12 OutputRangeMode ........................................
SECTION 4 - GPIB Interface
4.1
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.1.3
4.1.4
4.1.5
4.1.6
4.1.7
4.1.8
4.1.9
4.2
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.3
4.3.1
4.3.2
4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.5
4.6
4.7
INTRODUCTION ..............................
GPIB Overview ..............................
Major GPIB Specifications ......................
Bus Line Signals and Operation ..................
GPIB Handshaking ...........................
Data Transfer Example ........................
Basic Talker Functions .........................
Basic Listener Functions .......................
Basic Controller Functions ......................
Multi-Line Interface Messages ...................
OVERVIEW OF MODEL 3930A GPIB INTERFACE .....
Introduction ................................
Specifications __._ ._ __ ._ ._ _______ _._ __
MODEL 3930A PROGRAM CODES ................
Model 3930A Parameter-Setting Messages ..........
Model 3930A Inquiry Messages ..................
MODEL 3933A PHASE SHIFIIZR PROGRAM CODES. ..
Model 3933A Phase Shifter Parameter Setting Messages
Model 3933A Phase Shifter Inquiry Messages .......
TYPICAL EXECUTION TIMES ....................
PROGRAM CODE SUMMARY TABLES .............
SAMPLEPROGRAMS ..........................
4-l
4-l
4-l
4-2
4-2
43
4-3
4-3
4-4
44
4-6
4-6
4-6
4-10
4-10
4-21
4-26
4-26
4-32
4-35
4-38
4-43

List of Illustrations
SECTION 2 - Getting Started
Figure 2-l Front Panel Summary
Figure 2-2 TypicalConnections ..___.___...._._..._.._...___.........
SECTION 3 - Operation
Figure 3-1
Figure 3-2
Figure 3-3
Figure 34
Figure 3-5
Figure 3-6
Figure 3-7
Figure 3-8
Figure 3-9
Figure 3-10
Figure 3-11
Figure 3-12
Figure 3-13
Figure 3-14
Figure 3-15
Figure 3-16
Model 3930A Front Panel ...................................
Model 3930A Rear Panel ....................................
LogicInputCircuit ........................................
Amplitude Modulation Input Circuit .........................
Internal Trigger Output ...................................
SynchronousOutput ......................................
Sweep Marker and Sweep Synchronous Outputs .................
Relational Range for Allowed AC Amplitude Voltage and DC .......
Phase Relationship between Waveform and Synchronous Output ....
Burst Oscillation Mode Example .............................
Gate Oscillation Example Using Square Wave ...................
Gate Oscillation Example Showing Completion of Oscillation Cycle
Waveforms and Phase Definitions ............................
Relationship Between Sweep Frequency and Sweep Output ........
Output Resolution and Number of Digits for AC Only ............
Setting Resolution and Number of Digits for DC Only .............
SECTION 4 - GPIB Interface
Figure 4-l Interface Connector
Figure 4-2 Handshake Timing Diagram
Figure 4-3 Data Transfer Example
Figure 44 Program Code Syntax
Figure 4-5 Response Output Format
Appendix A - Typical Data
Figure A-l Sine Wave Amplitude vs. Frequency Characteristics A-2
Figure A-2 Total Harmonic Distortion vs. Frequency Characteristics A-2
24
2-5
3-2
3-11
3-13
3-14
3-14
3-14
3-14
3-22
3-23
3-26
3-26
3-26
3-25
3-31
3.36
3-37
4-2
4-3
44
4-7
4-9

List of Tables
SECTION 2 - Getting Started
Table 2-l FuseReplacement......................................................... 2-3
SECTION 4 - GPIB Interface
Table 4-l Multi-lie Interface Messages ............................
Table 4-2 Interface Functions ....................................
Table 4-3 Bus Driver Specifications ...............................
Table 4-4 Response to Interface Messages ...........................
Table 4-5 StatusByte ..........................................
Table 4-6 Model 3930A Main Parameter Setting Messages ..............
Table 4-7 Model 3930A Trigger Parameter Setting Messages .............
Table 4-8 Model 3930A Sweep Parameter Setting Messages .............
Table 4-9 Model 3930A Miscellaneous Parameter Messages .............
Table 4-10 Parameter Messages Specific to Model 3930A GPIB ............
Table 4-11 Main Parameter Inquiry Messages ................................
Table 4-12 Model 3930A Trigger Parameter Inquiry Messages ....................
Table 4-13 Model 3930A Sweep Parameter Inquiry Messages .....................
Table 4-14 Model 3930A Miscellaneous Pammeter Inquiry Messages ...............
Table 4-15 Inquiry Messages for Parameters Specific to Model 3930A GPIB ..........
Table 4-16 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Main Parameter Setting Range ..............
Table 4-17 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Sweep Parameter Setting Messages ...........
Table 4-18 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Miscekmeous Parameter Setting Messages .....
Table 4-19 Parameter Setting Messages Specific to Model 3933A Phase Shifter Gl’IB ....
Table 4-20 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Main Parameter Inquiry Messages ............
Table 4-21 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Sweep Parameter Inquiry Messages ...........
Table 4-22 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Miscellaneous Parameter Inquiry Messages .....
Table 4-23 Inquiry Messages for Parameters Specific to Model 3933A Phase Shifter GPIB
Table 4-24 TypicalExecutionTimes ........................................
Table 4-25 Model 3930A Program Code Summary .............................
Table 4-26 Model 3933A Phase Shifter Program Code Summary ...................
4-5
4-6
4-6
4-7
4-11
4-12
4-14
4-16
4-19
4-20
4-21
4-22
4-23
4-24
4-25
4-26
4-28
4-30
4-31
4-32
4-33
4-33
4-34
4-35
4-38
441

SECTION 1
General Information
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The Model 3930A Multifunction Synthesizer can gener-
a&frequencies between O.lmHz and l.?MHz. The Model
3930A can generate the entire frequency band at aresolu-
tion of O.lmHz, with a high-frequency accuracy of
?5ppm.
Five AC waveforms, s, 2/, n , n , and \ are avai-
able. Maximum output voltage for all waveforms is 30V
p-p/no load or 15Vp-p/5OQ load.
Since frequencies are synthesized directly by a custom
LSI digital IC, accuracy and stability are high, and the fre-
quency switching time is short. Another advantage is the
continuity of phase at frequency switchover.
Frequency sweep, amplitude modulation (AM), burst os-
cillation of up to 65,536 cycles, and gate oscillation are
available. The Model 3930A also employs a built-in trig-
ger generator, and the square-wave duty cycle is also
variable. Combined with the optional Model 3933A
Phase Shifter, the Model 3930A forms a multiphase oscil-
later.
The Model 3930A uses a two-line, 40-character liquid
crystal display to display selected functions, parameters,
and pertinent messages. Parameter settings are easily
made using both the numeric keys and the MODIFY
knob.
The Model 3930A is equipped with a standard GLIB
UEEE-488) interface and can be programmed over the
bus for the same operating modes and parameters that
can be controlled from the front panel.
1.2 FEATURES
l Wide bandwidth: O.lmHz to l.ZMHz (resolution:
O.lmHz).
l +5ppm frequency accuracy.
l Phase continuity at frequency switchover.
l Frequency can be set by period in addition to fre-
quency.
l Five AC waveforms available: ‘L,\,n,n,and\l
l The duty cycle can be set to values between 5% and
95% for frequencies up to 1OOkHz.
l High output: 30Vp-p/no load, 15Vp-p/5OQ load.
l AC output voltages can be set in p-p, rms, or dBV
units, and units conversion is also available.
. AC voltage accuracy: M.5% K5OkHz, s ,3Vp-p or
greater).
l Low distortion: 0.1% or less (IOkHz to IOOkHz above
3OmVp-p, when output range is AUTO).
. Amplitude modulation of AC output waveforms by
an externally applied signal.
l-1

SECTION 1
General Information
DC offset and DC output voltages available: +15V/no
load, &7.5V/5OQ load.
Bust oscillation and gate oscillation modes:
Number of burst oscillation cycles: 1cycle to 65,536 cy-
cles.
Start/stop phase: -360’ to 360”.
Trigger source: External/internal and trailing/edge
are selectable.
Internal trigger period: lpsec to 2999.9sec.
A wide variety of frequency sweep functions and as-
sociated input and output signals:
Sweep functions: 1, LIN/LOG, A / n
CONT/SINGLE and HOLD/RESUME sweep opera-
tions.
Sweep time: 5msec to 9999s~~.
SYNC, MARKER, and X DlUVfZ output signals.
SINGL START and HOLD input signals.
Each parameter setting can be performed using either
the numeric keys or the MODIFY knob and keys. The
two-line, 40 character LCD clearly displays all neces-
sary information. Various modification steps sizes are
available: +l, ?5, x+2, and x+10.
Battery backed-up memory stores up 10 configuration
settings in addition to the configuration in effect when
power is turned off.
Standard GPIB interface allows the Model 3930A to be
programmed over the GPIB (IEEE-488 interface bus).
Digital I/O allows the Model 3930A to be used as a
multiphase oscillator in conjunction with the optional
Model 3933A Phase Shifter.
Output range mode can be switched from automatic
(AUTO) to fixed (D(D).
1.3 WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty information is located on the inside front cover
of this operator’s manual. Should your Model 393012re-
quire warranty service, contact the Keithley representa-
tive or authorized repair facility in your area for further
information. When returning the instrument for repair,
be sue to fill out and include the service form at the back
of this manual in order to provide the repair facility with
the necessary information.
1.4 MANUAL ADDENDA
Any improvements or changes concerning the ix&n-
ment or manual will be explained in an addendum in-
cluded with the unit. Be sure to note these changes and
incorporate them into the manual before using the unit.
1.5 SAFETY TERMS AND SYMBOLS
The following safety terms and symbols are found on the
instrument or used in this manuaL
The A symbol on the instrument indicates that the
user should refer to the operating instructions.
The WARNING heading used in this manual explains
dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Al-
ways read the associated information very carefully be-
fore performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading used in this manual explains
hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage
may invalidate the warranty.
1.6 UNPACKING AND REPACKING
1.6.1 Unpacking
After carefully unpacking the instrument from its ship-
ping carton, inspect it for any obvious signs of physical
damage. Report any such damage to the shipping agent
immediately. Save the original packing carton for storage
or possible future shipment.
1.6.2 Shipment Contents
The following items are included with every Model
393OA order:
l Model 3930A Multifunction Synthesizer
. Model 3930A Operator’s Manual.
. Power cord
l Fuse (lA, 25OV, 5 x 20mm)
l BNC to BNC signal cable
l Additional accessories as ordered.
1.6.3 Operator’s Manual
If an additional manual is required, order the manual
package, Keithley part number 3930A-900.00. The man-
ualpackage includes an operator’s manual and anyperti-
nent addenda.
l-2

SECTION 1
General In,formation
1.6.4 Repacking For Shipment
Should it become necessary to return the Model 3930A
for repair, carefully pack the unit in its original packing
carton or the equivalent. Be sure to use acardboard box of
sufficient strength if the original carton is not used.
Include the following information:
l Advise as to the warranty status of the instrument.
l Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT on the
shipping label.
l Filloutandincludetheserviceformlocatedattheback
of this manual.
1.7 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
The following accessories are available for use with the
Model 3930A.
Models 3900-l and 3900-Z Rack Mounting Kits: The
Model 3900-l mounts one Model 393OA in a standard 19
inch rack. The Model 3900-2 mounts two Model 3930As
side by side in a standard 19 inch rack. Both kits include
all necessary hardware for proper rack mounting of the
instruments.
Model 7007 Shielded IEEE-488 Cables: The Model
7007-l Urn, 3.3ft.j and Model 7007-Z (2m, 6.6ft.) can be
used to interface the Model 3930A to the IEEE488 bus.
Model 7051-Z BNC-to-BNC Cable: The Model 7051-Z is
SOL2BNC to BNC cable (RG-580 2ft. (0.6m) in length.
The Model 7051-2 is terminated with male BNC connec-
tors on both ends.
Model 7051-5 BNC-to-BNC Cable: The Model 7051-Z is
5OQ BNC to BNC cable (RG-58C) 5ft (1.2m) in length.
The Model 7051-5 is terminated with male BNC connec-
tors on both ends.
Model7051-lOBNC-toBNCCable:TheModel7051-10is
similar to the Models 7051-2 and 7051-5 except that it is
loft. in length.
Model 7754-3 BNC-to-Alligator Cable: The Model
7754-3 is a 3ft. (O.Vm) 500 cable (RG-580, terminated
with a male BNC connector on one end and two alligator
clips on the other end.
Model 7755 5OQ Feed-through Terminator: The Model
7755 is a BNC to BNC adapter that is terminated with a
5OQresistor. VSWR is ~1.1, DC to 250MHz.
1.8 SPECIFICATIONS
Detailed Model 3930A specifications may be found in
Appendix B.
l-3

SECTION 2
Getting Started
2.1 INTRODUCTION
This sections contains basic information on installation,
power line connections, and it also provides typical sim-
ple operating examples.
2.2 INSTALLATION
The following paragraphs discuss Model 3930A installa-
tion. In particular, use adequate care when installing the
unit. Improper installation will adversely affect the life,
reliability, and safety of the unit.
The Model 3930A weighs about 10 lbs; be careful when
carrying the unit or mounting it in a rack.
2.2.1 Installation Location
The allowable ambient temperature and humidity
ranges for the Model 3930A are.
operating: 0 to 4O”C, 10 to 9O%RH
storage: -10 to 5O”C, 10 to 8O%RH
Be sure to install the unit in a location that satisfies these
temperature and humidity conditions. Also the environ-
ment must be free of dust and vibration, and the Model
3930A must not be exposed to direct sunlight.
The Model 3930A uses a line filter, but pulse noise or
strong magnetic or electric fields may cause incorrect op-
eration of the unit. Do not install the unit near a source of
pulse noise or strong magnetic or electric fields.
The guard on the rear panel of the unit is designed to pro-
tect rear panel connectors and should not be used as a leg
for installation. Do not stand the unit vertically on the
rear guard because it may fall over, causing instrument
damage or personal injury.
2.2.2 Fan
The Model 3930A is air-cooled by a fan. Insufficient air
flow may cause acomponent in the unit to fail. Follow the
instructions given below.
CAUTION
Observe the following precautions to pre-
vent damage to the unit:
. An air intake port is provided on the rear
panel of the unit. Allow a space of at least
2-l

SECTION 2
Getting Started
four inches between the rear panel and a
wall or other obstruction.
l An exhaust port is provided on the bottom
panel of the unit. Install the unit on a rigid,
flat surface, and avoid installing it on soft
material such as a cushion. Be careful not to
insert foreign material between the bottom
of the unit and the surface underneath . An-
other exhaust port is located on the top panel
of the unit. Be careful not to block the top
port by placing an object on top of the unit.
l Avoid mounting two or more units verti-
cally. Placing one unit on top of another will
obstruct the exhaust port.
l Dust collecting in the fan filter wilt prevent
sufficient air flow. In clean operating envi-
ronments, wash the filter with a mild deter-
gent every three months. When operating
the unit in adusty environment, wash the fil-
ter with a mild detergent at least once a
month.
l Immediately turn off the power to the unit if
the fan ceases to operate. Operating the in-
strumentwiththefaninoperativemayresult
in damage to the instrument.
2.3 LINE POWER SUPPLY
The Model 3930A operates with a lOOV, 12OV, ZOV, or
24OV SO%, 48 to 62Hz, single-phase AC power supply.
The power consumption is 41VA.
2.3.1 LINE Voltage Selector Switch
TheLINEvoltageselectorswitchontherearpanelallows
you to change operating voltage of the power supply.
The standard setting of the switch is the same asthe volt-
age available in the country to which the unit is shipped.
To change the power supply voltage, first disconnect the
line cord, and set the supply voltage switch in the correct
position. Wait at least five seconds before turning the
power back on after hnning it off.
WARNING
Disconnect the power cord from the instrn-
ment before changing the supply voltage
setting.
CAUTION
Be sure to set the line voltage switch to the
correct position for the line power voltage to
be used. Operating the instrument on an in-
correctvoltagemaycausedamageto theunit.
2.3.2 Line Receptacle Connection
Connect the supplied power cord to the rear panel Line
receptacle and to a grounded AC power receptacle sup-
plying the correct voltage.
WARNING
The Model 3930A is equipped with a 3-wire
power cord that contains a separate ground
wire and is designed to be used with
grounded outlets. When proper connections
are made, instrument chassis is connected to
the power line ground. If the AC outlet is not
grounded, the rear panel ground terminal
0 must be connected to safety earth
ground using #18AWG (or larger) wire be-
fore use.
2.3.3 Line Fuse
The line fuse, protects the instrument from over-current
situations. To replace the fuse, first disconnect the line
cord, and unscrew the fuse carrier from the fuse holder.
Replace the blown fuse only with the type listed in Table
2-1, then replace the fuse holder.
WARNING
Disconnect the line cord from the in&u-
ment before replacing the fuse.
CAUTION
Use only a fuse of the rating listed in Table
2-1, or instrument damage may occur.
2-2

SECTION 2
Gettim Started
Table 2-1. Fuse Replacement
mi
NCSTE:Fusesare 5 x 20mmand have
25OV,normalblow ratings.
2.4 HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
A flat keyboard coated with a polyester film forms the
control panel surface of the Model 3930A. Be careful not
todamagethekeyboardsurfacebycuttingitwithasharp
instrument or touching it with a hot object.
When the panel or case becomes dirty, clean it with a soft
cloth. If the panel or cake is too dirty for cleaning with a
dry cloth, dampen the cloth in mild detergent, and wipe
the panel or case with the damp cloth. Never use solvents
such as thinner or benzene, or chemical dust cloths to
avoid damaging the case or front panel surfaces.
2.5 BASIC OPERATION
The following paragraphs summarize front panel operat-
ing controls, give typical test connections, and discuss
typical operating examples for the Model 3930A.
2.5.1 Front Panel Summary
Figure 2-l summarizes each front panel feature. For de-
tailed information on each operating feature, refer to Sec-
tion 3.
2.5.2 Typical Test Connections
Figure 2-2 shows typical tests comections behveen the
Mode13930A mainsynthesizerand a DLT. Note that SO<>
characteristic impedance cables such as the Model 7051
should be used for output connections.
2-3

SECTION 2
Getting Started
r
I ,
igure 2-l. Front Panel Summary
2-4

SECTION2
Getting Started
‘igure 2-2.
Model 3930A
Typical Connections
FCTN
out
2.5.3 Operating Examples
The following examples give step-by-step instructions
for setting basic Model 3930A operating parameters. The
Model 3930A can be connected to an oscilloscope to view
the results of the various operating examples.
Example 1: Selecting the Waveform Type (Function)
The waveform type can be selected using the FCTN key
as follows:
1. Press FCTN and note that the instrument displays
the current function and the available functions.
2. Press the number key corresponding to the desired
function (O-51,or rotate the MODIFY knob until the
desired function number is displayed. For example,
press 3 to select the square-wave function. The
waveform will immediately change to the selected
function.
3. Press DSPL to return to the normal display mode.
Example 2: Setting fhe Waveform Frequency or Period
Use FREQ to set the frequency or period of the output
wavefoml as follows:
1. Press FREQ to enter the frequency-programming
mode. The instrument will display the allowable fre-
quency range (O.lmHz to 1.2MHz for sine waves,
O.lmHz to 1OOkHz for all other waveform types).
2. To directly enter a completely new numeric fre-
quency value, key in the desired number followed
by the appropriate units key (Hz or kHz). For exam-
ple, toenter afrequencyof lO.lkHz,press: 10. 1kHz.
3. To simply modify an existing frequency value, place
the cursor on the digit to be changed using 4 or .,
then use the MODIFY knob to set the digit to the de-
sired value. Repeat as necessary for all digits to be
changed. Note that you can press the STEP SIZE key
to change the increment, or to multiply or divide by 2
or by 10.
4. To display the time period of the waveform fre-
quency, press the set key. You can then key in a new
time period or modify the existing period, if desired.
5. Press Hz or kHz to return to frequency display.
6. Press DSPL to return to normal display.
Example 3: Setting the Output Amplitude
Use the AMFTD key to set the output voltage amplitude
as follows:
1. Press AMPTD, and note that the instrument displays
the current amplitude and allowed amplitude range.
2. To enter a completely new amplitude value in p-p
units, key in the numeric value, then press V or mV,
asrequired. For example, to enter a30mV p-p ampli-
tude, press: 3 0 mV.
3. To simply modify the existing amplitude value, use
the cursor keys and the MODIFY knob to set the
value as required.
4. Press DSI’L to rehun to normal display.
2-5

SECTION 2
Getting Started
Example 4: Programming the DC Offset
The OFFSET key allows you to set the DC or average level
of the output waveform, as in the following example:
sweep parameters, while the SWEEP OPR keys control
sweep operation. Perform the steps below to demon-
strate basic sweep operation:
1. Press OFFSET, and note that the instrument displays
the current offset value and allowed range.
2. Either key in the desired offset, or use the MODIFY
knob and cursor keys to change the value.
3. Press DSPL to return to normal display.
Example 5: Selecting the Operating Mode
The Model 3930A can be operated in continuous, burst,
or gate modes. The operating mode can be set with the
MODE key as in the following example:
1. Press MODE, and note that the instrument displays
the current mode and available modes (continuous,
burst, and gate).
2. Press the number of the desired mode (or rotate
MODIFY to choose the desired operating mode).
3. Press DSPL to return to normal display.
Example 6: Controlling Sweep Operation
The Model 3930A can be used to sweep across a desired
frequency range. The SWEEP keys allow you to program
Press START FREQ. and key in or use MODIFY to set
the sweep start frequency. For example, press 1 kHz
to program a 1kHz start frequency.
Press STOP FREQ. and set the sweep stop frequency
as desired. For example, to program a 1OkHz stop
frequency, press 10 kHz.
Press CTR and SPAN to view the center and span
frequencies. With 1kHz and IOkHz start and stop
frequencies, the center and span frequencies will be
5.5kHz and 9kHz respectively. NOTE: If you change
the center or span frequencies, the start and stop fre-
quencies willbe automatically changed accordiigly.
Press SWEEP FCTN, and choose the type of sweep.
For example, press 2 to select a linear, ascending
sweep type.
Press SWEEP TIME, and program the sweep time as
required. For example, press 5 set to program a five-
second sweep time.
To generate a single sweep, press SINGL START.
The unit will generate one sweep based on selected
sweep parameters.
To generate continuous sweeps, press SHIFT START
CONT. The Model 3930A will generate sweeps con-
tinuously based on selected sweep parameters.
Press SWEEP OFF to stop a sweep.
2-6

SECTION 3
Operation
3.1 INTRODUCTION
This section contains detailed information on front panel
operation of the Model 3930A. For detailed GI’IB
(IEEE-488 bus) operation, refer to Section 4.
3.2 FRONT PANEL AND REAR PANEL
DESCRIPTION
3.2.1 Front Panel Description
The front panel of the Model 3930A is shown in
Figure3-1. The front panel is made up of a two-line,
40-character liquid crystal display and a control panel
with a built-in flat keyboard. The liquid crystal display
presents information useful for the operation of the
Model 3930A, such as the value of each parameter and
the range of permissible parameter values.
The keyboard includes a SHIFT key, which gives certain
other keys secondary functions. A key which is shaded
with the same color as the SHIFT key requires that you
press SHIFT first before accessing the function of that
particular key.
Most settings are maintained in battery backed-up mem-
ory. As a result, the Model 3930A automatically assumes
the previous settings when the power is first turned on.
3-1