National Instruments PXIe-4136 User manual

GETTING STARTED GUIDE
NI PXIe-4136/4137
Single-Channel System Source Measure Unit (SMU)
Note Before you begin, install and configure your chassis and controller.
This document explains how to install, configure, and test the NI PXIe-4136/4137
(NI 4136/4137). The NI 4136/4137 is a single-channel system source measure unit (SMU).
To access NI 4136/4137 documentation, navigate to Start»All Programs»National
Instruments»NI-DCPower»Documentation.
Caution Do not operate the NI 4136/4137 in a manner not specified in this
document. Product misuse can result in a hazard. You can compromise the safety
protection built into the product if the product is damaged in any way. If the product
is damaged, return it to NI for repair.
Contents
Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines...............................................................................2
Safety Guidelines for Hazardous Voltages............................................................................... 2
Verifying the System Requirements......................................................................................... 2
Unpacking the Kit.....................................................................................................................3
Kit Contents.............................................................................................................................. 3
Other Equipment...............................................................................................................4
Preparing the Environment....................................................................................................... 4
Safety........................................................................................................................................ 5
Installing the Software.............................................................................................................. 5
System Safety Guidelines......................................................................................................... 5
Safety Guidelines for System Design and Implementation.............................................. 5
Safety Guidelines for System Operation.......................................................................... 7
Installing the NI 4136/4137...................................................................................................... 7
Configuring the NI 4136/4137 in MAX................................................................................. 10
Testing the Safety Interlock.................................................................................................... 10
Testing with an Application Development Environment................................................11
Testing with the NI-DCPower Soft Front Panel............................................................. 11
Programming the NI 4136/4137............................................................................................. 12
Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................... 12
What Should I Do if the NI 4136/4137 Doesn't Appear in MAX?.................................12
Why Is the ACCESS LED Off When the Chassis Is On?.............................................. 13
Where To Go Next.................................................................................................................. 14
Worldwide Support and Services............................................................................................14

Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines
This product was tested and complies with the regulatory requirements and limits for
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) stated in the product specifications. These requirements
and limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the product is
operated in the intended operational electromagnetic environment.
This product is intended for use in industrial locations. However, harmful interference may
occur in some installations, when the product is connected to a peripheral device or test object,
or if the product is used in residential or commercial areas. To minimize interference with
radio and television reception and prevent unacceptable performance degradation, install and
use this product in strict accordance with the instructions in the product documentation.
Furthermore, any changes or modifications to the product not expressly approved by National
Instruments could void your authority to operate it under your local regulatory rules.
Caution To ensure the specified EMC performance, operate this product only with
shielded cables and accessories.
Caution To ensure the specified EMC performance, the length of all I/O cables
must be no longer than 3 m (10 ft).
Safety Guidelines for Hazardous Voltages
If hazardous voltages are connected to the device, take the following precautions. A hazardous
voltage is a voltage greater than 42.4 Vpk voltage or 60 VDC to earth ground.
Caution This module is rated for Measurement Category I. It is intended to carry
signal voltages no greater than 250 V. This module can withstand up to 500 V
impulse voltage. Do not use this module for connection to signals or for
measurements within Categories II, III, or IV. Do not connect to MAINS supply
circuits (for example, wall outlets) of 115 VAC or 230 VAC.
Caution Isolation voltage ratings apply to the voltage measured between any
channel pin and the chassis ground. When operating channels in series or floating on
top of external voltage references, ensure that no terminal exceeds this rating.
Verifying the System Requirements
To use the NI-DCPower instrument driver, your system must meet certain requirements.
Refer to the product readme, which is available on the driver software media or online at
ni.com/manuals, for more information about minimum system requirements,
recommended system, and supported application development environments (ADEs).
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Unpacking the Kit
Caution To prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging the device,
ground yourself using a grounding strap or by holding a grounded object, such as
your computer chassis.
1. Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis.
2. Remove the device from the package and inspect the device for loose components or any
other sign of damage.
Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.
Note Do not install a device if it appears damaged in any way.
3. Unpack any other items and documentation from the kit.
Store the device in the antistatic package when the device is not in use.
Kit Contents
Figure 1. NI 4136/4137 Kit Contents
43 56
12
1. NI PXIe-4136/4137 System SMU Device
2. Output Connector Assembly
3. Safety Interlock Input Connector
4. Driver Software DVD
5. NI PXIe-4136/4137 Getting Started Guide (this
document)
6. Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users
NI PXIe-4136/4137 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 3

Other Equipment
There are several required items not included in your device kit that you need to operate the
NI 4136/4137. Your application may require additional items not included in your kit to install
or operate your device.
Required Items
• A PXI Express chassis and chassis documentation. For more information about
compatible chassis options, refer to ni.com.
• A PXI Express embedded controller or MXI controller system that meets the system
requirements specified in this guide and chassis documentation.
Optional Items
• NI screwdriver (part number 781015-01).
Preparing the Environment
Ensure that the environment you are using the NI 4136/4137 in meets the following
specifications.
Operating Environment
Ambient temperature range 0 °C to 55 °C (Tested in accordance with
IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2. Meets
MIL-PRF-28800F Class 3 low temperature
limit and MIL-PRF-28800F Class 2 high
temperature limit.)
Relative humidity range 10% to 90%, noncondensing (Tested in
accordance with IEC 60068-2-56.)
Storage ambient temperature range -40 °C to 70 °C (Tested in accordance
with IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2.)
Maximum altitude 2,000 m (800 mbar) (at 25 °C ambient
temperature)
Pollution Degree 2
Indoor use only.
Note Refer to the device specifications on ni.com/manuals for complete
specifications.
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Safety
Caution Always refer to the specifications document for your device before
connecting signals. Failure to observe the specified maximum signal ratings can
cause shock, a fire hazard, or damage to the devices connected to the NI 4136/4137.
NI is not liable for any damage or injuries resulting from incorrect signal
connections.
Installing the Software
You must be an Administrator to install NI software on your computer.
1. Install an ADE, such as LabVIEW or LabWindows™/CVI™.
2. Insert the driver software media into your computer. The installer should open
automatically.
If the installation window does not appear, navigate to the drive, double-click it, and
double-click autorun.exe.
3. Follow the instructions in the installation prompts.
Note Windows users may see access and security messages during
installation. Accept the prompts to complete the installation.
4. When the installer completes, select Restart in the dialog box that prompts you to restart,
shut down, or restart later.
System Safety Guidelines
Safety Guidelines for System Design and
Implementation
The NI 4136/4137 is capable of generating hazardous voltages and working within hazardous
voltage systems. It is the responsibility of the system designer, integrator, installer,
maintenance personnel, and service personnel to ensure the system is safe during use.
• Ensure operators cannot access the NI 4136/4137, cables, the device under test (DUT) or
any other instruments in the system while hazardous voltages are present.
• Operator access points can include, but are not limited to, guards, gates, sliding doors,
hinge doors, lids, covers, and light curtains.
• If using a test fixture enclosure, ensure that it is properly connected to safety ground.
• Ensure that the NI 4136/4137 is properly secured to the chassis using the two front panel
mounting screws.
• Double insulate all electrical connections that are accessible by an operator. Double
insulation ensures protection if one layer of insulation fails. Refer to IEC 61010-1 for
specific insulation requirements.
NI PXIe-4136/4137 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 5

Safety Interlock System Integration
The NI 4136/4137 includes a safety interlock circuit that places the outputs of the SMU device
in a safe state, regardless of the programmed state of the device.
• Do not short the safety interlock pins directly at the connector under any circumstances.
• Confirm on a regular basis that the safety interlock is functioning by performing a safety
interlock test.
• Install mechanical detection switches that open the safety interlock circuit when the
operator attempts to access the test fixture, disabling the hazardous voltage ranges of the
instrument.
• Ensure the mechanical detection switches close the safety interlock circuit only when the
operator has properly closed all entry points to the test fixture enclosure, enabling
hazardous voltage ranges on the instrument.
Figure 2. System Level Connection, Typical
1
2
Safety Interlock Connector
Test Fixture Enclosure
Operator Access Door
Mechanical Detection Switches
Mechanical detection switch is actuated
by operator access point
3
4
Related Information
Fore more information about the Safety Interlock, refer to the NI DC Power Supplies and
SMUs Help.
Testing the Safety Interlock on page 10
Mechanical Detection Switch Recommendations
• Use high-reliability, fail-safe, normally open mechanical detection switches on all access
points to the test fixture enclosure.
• Use two normally open switches wired in series so that a single switch failure does not
compromise safety protections.
• Isolate switches so the operator cannot trigger or bypass the switches without the use of a
tool.
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• Ensure the switches' certifications meet your test application requirements. NI
recommends UL-certified safety switches to ensure reliability.
• Install the switches in accordance with the switch manufacturer specifications.
• Test the switches periodically to ensure proper implementation and reliability.
Safety Guidelines for System Operation
Caution Hazardous voltage of up to the maximum voltage of the device may
appear at the output terminals if the safety interlock terminal is closed. Open the
safety interlock terminal when the output connections are accessible. With the safety
interlock terminal open the output voltage level/limit is limited to ±40 VDC, and
protection will be triggered if the voltage measured between the device HI and LO
terminals exceeds ±(42 Vpk ±0.4 V).
Caution Do not apply voltage to the safety interlock connector inputs. The
interlock connector is designed to accept passive normally open contact closure
connections only.
To ensure a system containing the NI 4136/4137 is safe for operators, components, or
conductors, take the following safety precautions:
• Ensure proper warnings and signage exists for workers in the area of operation.
• Provide training to all system operators so that they understand the potential hazards and
how to protect themselves.
• Inspect connectors, cables, switches, and any test probes for any wear or cracking before
each use.
• Before touching any of the connections to the high terminal or high sense on the
NI 4136/4137, discharge all components connected to the measurement path. Verify with
a DMM before interaction with connections.
Installing the NI 4136/4137
Caution To prevent damage to the device caused by ESD or contamination, handle
the device using the edges or the metal bracket.
1. Ensure the AC power source is connected to the chassis before installing the modules.
The AC power cord grounds the chassis and protects it from electrical damage while you
install the modules.
2. Power off the chassis.
3. Inspect the slot pins on the chassis backplane for any bends or damage prior to
installation. Do not install a module if the backplane is damaged.
4. Remove the black plastic connectors from all the captive screws on the module front
panel.
5. Identify a supported slot in the chassis. The following figure shows the symbols that
indicate the slot types.
NI PXIe-4136/4137 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 7

Figure 3. Chassis Compatibility Symbols
NI PXIe-1062Q
1
2
3
4
5
1. PXI Express System Controller Slot
2. PXI Peripheral Slot
3. PXI Express Hybrid Peripheral Slot
4. PXI Express System Timing Slot
5. PXI Express Peripheral Slot
NI 4136/4137 modules can be placed in PXI Express peripheral slots, PXI Express hybrid
peripheral slots, or PXI Express system timing slots.
6. Touch any metal part of the chassis to discharge static electricity.
7. Ensure that the ejector handle is in the unlatched (downward) position.
8. Place the module edges into the module guides at the top and bottom of the chassis. Slide
the device into the slot until it is fully inserted.
Figure 4. Module Installation
2
3
NI PXIe-1075
1
1. Chassis
2. Hardware Module
3. Ejector Handle in Down (Unlatched) Position
9. Latch the module in place by pulling up on the ejector handle.
10. Secure the device front panel to the chassis using the front-panel mounting screws.
Note Tightening the top and bottom mounting screws increases mechanical
stability and also electrically connects the front panel to the chassis, which can
improve the signal quality and electromagnetic performance.
11. Cover all empty slots using filler panels or slot blockers to maximize cooling air flow.
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12. Prepare the output connector and cable to ensure proper grounding. Refer to the
following figure for connection information.
a) Open the output connector assembly.
b) To expose the cable ground shield, measure and mark your strip length on the cable.
c) Use an insulation strip tool to expose the cable ground shield.
d) Insert the cable.
e) Using strain relief, clamp down on the ground shield.
f) Tie the cable drain wire to the grounding screw.
g) Ensure that there is no exposed wiring, cable ground shield, or drain wire in the
shaded region: 8.89 mm (.350 in.) minimum.
h) Close the output connector assembly, and tighten the retention screws to hold it in
place.
Figure 5. NI 4136/4137 Output Connector
5
1
2
4
3
1. Strain Relief Clamped onto Ground Shield
2. Grounding Screw Connected to Drain Wire
3. Region Where Exposed Wiring Is Allowed, 7.62
mm (.300 in.)
4. Region Free from Exposed Wiring, Cable Ground
Shield, or Drain Wire, 8.89 mm (.350 in.) Minimum
5. Output Connector Assembly
13. Attach output connections.
a) Connect the output connector assembly to the device. Tighten any thumbscrews on
the output connector assembly to hold it in place.
14. Ensure that the safety interlock connector is wired to a test fixture that ensures operator
safety, and prepare the safety interlock cable for insertion into the safety interlock
connector.
a) Measure and mark your strip length on the safety interlock cable.
Note Required wire strip length for the safety interlock cable is 7.5 mm
(0.295 in.) minimum and 10 mm (0.394 in.) absolute maximum.
Acceptable AWG Range for safety interlock cable is 16-24.
b) Use an insulation strip tool to expose cable of the appropriate length.
NI PXIe-4136/4137 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 9

c) The safety interlock connector accepts both solid and multi-strand conductor
cabling. If you are using a multi-stranded cable, twist the strands together before
insertion. For additional cabling reliability, strip and tin multi-stranded conductors
before insertion.
d) Insert the cable.
e) Inspect for loose strands and tighten any retention screws on the safety interlock
connector assembly to hold it in place.
f) Connect the safety interlock connector to the device.
15. Power on the chassis.
16. Perform the safety interlock test.
Related Information
Testing the Safety Interlock on page 10
Configuring the NI 4136/4137 in MAX
Use Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) to configure your NI hardware. MAX
informs other programs about which devices reside in the system and how they are configured.
MAX is automatically installed with NI-DCPower.
1. Launch MAX.
2. In the configuration tree, expand Devices and Interfaces to see the list of installed
devices.
Installed devices appear under the name of their associated chassis.
3. Expand your Chassis tree item.
MAX lists all devices installed in the chassis. Your default device names may vary.
Note If you do not see your device listed, press <F5> to refresh the list of
installed devices. If the device is still not listed, power off the system, ensure
the device is correctly installed, and restart.
4. Record the device identifier MAX assigns to the hardware. Use this identifier when
programming the NI 4136/4137.
5. Self-test the device by selecting the device in the configuration tree and clicking Self-
Test in the MAX toolbar.
The MAX self-test performs a basic verification of hardware resources.
Testing the Safety Interlock
In order to ensure safe operation of the NI 4136/4137, periodically test the safety interlock for
proper functionality. The recommended test interval is at least once per day of continuous
usage.
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