NI PXIe-4135 User manual

GETTING STARTED GUIDE
PXIe-4135
PXIe, ±200 V, ±1 A (DC)/±3 A (Pulsed), 10 fA Precision System PXI
Source Measure Unit
This document explains how to install, configure, and test the PXIe-4135. Go to ni.com/r/
downloaddcpower to download the latest NI-DCPower driver software to program the module.
Note Before you begin, install and configure your chassis and controller.
Note In this document, the PXIe-4135 (40W) and PXIe-4135 (20W) are referred to
inclusively as the PXIe-4135. The information in this document applies to all
versions of the PXIe-4135 unless otherwise specified. To determine which version of
the module you have, locate the device name in one of the following places:
•In MAX—The PXIe-4135 (40W) shows NI PXIe-4135 (40W), and the
PXIe-4135 (20W) shows as NI PXIe-4135.
•Device front panel—The PXIe-4135 (40W) shows PXIe-4135 40W System
SMU, and the PXIe-4135 (20W) shows NI PXIe-4135 Precision System SMU
on the front panel.
Contents
Verifying the System Requirements..........................................................................................2
Unpacking the Kit..................................................................................................................... 2
Kit Contents.............................................................................................................................. 3
Other Equipment............................................................................................................... 3
Preparing the Environment....................................................................................................... 4
Installing the Software.............................................................................................................. 4
Installing the PXIe-4135........................................................................................................... 4
PXIe-4135 Pinout......................................................................................................................8
Accessories..............................................................................................................................10
Configuring the PXIe-4135 in MAX...................................................................................... 10
Testing the Safety Interlock.....................................................................................................11
Testing with an Application Development Environment................................................11
Testing with the NI-DCPower Soft Front Panel..............................................................11
Self-Calibrating the PXIe-4135.............................................................................................. 12
Programming the PXIe-4135.................................................................................................. 13

Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................... 15
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Doesn't Appear in MAX?......................................15
Why Is the ACCESS LED Off When the Chassis Is On?...............................................16
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Fails the Self-Test?................................................16
NI Services..............................................................................................................................17
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 online on the driver software download page
or at ni.com/manuals, for more information about minimum system requirements,
recommended system, and supported application development environments (ADEs).
Unpacking the Kit
Notice 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.
Notice 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.
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Kit Contents
Figure 1. PXIe-4135 Kit Contents
43 5
1
NIPXIe-4135
PrecisionSystem SMU
2
1. PXIe-4135 Precision System SMU with triax caps
installed
2. LO/Sense LO Output Connector Assembly
3. Safety Interlock Input Connector
4. Safety, Environmental, and Regulatory
Information
5. Product documentation
Other Equipment
There are several required items not included in your PXIe-4135 kit that you need to operate
the PXIe-4135. Your application may require additional items not included in your kit to
install or operate your PXIe-4135.
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.
• One or more triaxial cable assemblies.
Optional Items
• PXI Slot Blocker Kit (NI part number 199198-01)
• NI screwdriver (NI part number 781015-01)
Visit ni.com for more information about these additional items.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 3

Preparing the Environment
Ensure that the environment you are using the PXIe-4135 in meets the following
specifications:
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature
Operating 0 °C to 55 °C
Storage -40 °C to 71 °C
Humidity
Operating 10% to 90%, noncondensing
Storage 5% to 95%, noncondensing
Pollution Degree 2
Maximum altitude 2,000 m (800 mbar) (at 25 °C ambient
temperature)
Notice This model is intended for use in indoor applications only.
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. Download the driver software installer from ni.com/downloads.
NI Package Manager downloads with the driver software to handle the installation. Refer
to the NI Package Manager Manual for more information about installing, removing, and
upgrading NI software using NI Package Manager.
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.
Installing the PXIe-4135
Notice To prevent damage to the PXIe-4135 caused by ESD or contamination,
handle the module using the edges or the metal bracket.
1. Ensure the AC power source is connected to the chassis before installing the PXIe-4135.
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The AC power cord grounds the chassis and protects it from electrical damage while you
install the PXIe-4135.
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. Position the chassis so that inlet and outlet vents are not obstructed.
For more information about optimal chassis positioning, refer to the chassis
documentation.
5. Remove the black plastic covers from all the captive screws on the module front panel.
6. Identify a supported slot in the chassis. The following figure shows the symbols that
indicate the slot types.
Figure 2. Chassis Compatibility Symbols
12 3 45
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
PXIe-4135 modules can be placed in PXI Express peripheral slots, PXI Express hybrid
peripheral slots, or PXI Express system timing slots.
7. Touch any metal part of the chassis to discharge static electricity.
8. Ensure that the ejector handle is in the downward (unlatched) position.
9. Place the module edges into the module guides at the top and bottom of the chassis. Slide
the module into the slot until it is fully inserted.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 5

Figure 3. Module Installation
2
3
1
1. Chassis
2. Hardware Module
3. Ejector Handle in Downward (Unlatched) Position
10. Latch the module in place by pulling up on the ejector handle.
11. Secure the module 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.
12. Cover all empty slots using either filler panels (standard or EMC) or slot blockers with
filler panels, depending on your application.
Note For more information about installing slot blockers and filler panels, go
to ni.com/r/pxiblocker.
13. Connect the output connector assembly to the device. Tighten any thumbscrews on the
output connector assembly to hold it in place.
14. Prepare the LO/Sense LO connector assembly.
Caution To ensure specified EMC performance, only use twisted, shielded
pair cable (for example, Belden 83321E).
a) Open the LO/Sense LO connector assembly.
b) Use an insulation strip tool to expose the LO, sense LO, and ground cable
conductors. The maximum strip length for the LO and sense LO cable is 10 mm
(0.394 in.).
c) Insert each cable into the appropriate connector terminal. The cable drain wire
should be terminated to the connector ground terminal.
d) Inspect the connection to the connector terminals to ensure no exposed metal is
visible on the LO and sense LO cables beyond the body of the connector.
e) Clamp down using the screw terminals on the connector.
f) Verify that no exposed shield foil or braid extends outside of the backshell.
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g) Use the cable tie to provide strain relief for the cable to the backshell.
h) Close the LO/sense LO connector assembly and tighten the retention screw to hold it
in place.
15. Attach output connections.
a) Connect the triaxial cables to the module.
b) Connect the LO/sense LO connector assembly to the module. Tighten the
thumbscrew on the connector assembly to hold it in place.
16. 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 The 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.
The acceptable AWG range for the safety interlock cable is 16-24.
b) Use an insulation strip tool to expose cable of the appropriate length.
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.
17. Power on the chassis.
18. Perform the safety interlock test.
Related Information
Why Is the ACCESS LED Off When the Chassis Is On? on page 16
Testing the Safety Interlock on page 11
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 7

PXIe-4135 Pinout
ACC VOLTAGE
LO
HI
GUARD
GUARD
INT.
PASS-
THRU
SENSE
LO
SENSE HI
SAFETY INTERLOCK
3.3 V MAX
OUTPUT
PXIe-4135
Precision System SMU
A
C
D
E
B
K
M
J
L
F
H
I
G
LO
HI
GUARD
GUARD
INT.
PASS-
THRU
SENSE
LO
SENSE HI
SAFETY INTERLOCK
3.3 V MAX
OUTPUT
PXIe-4135
40W System SMU
A
C
D
E
B
K
M
J
L
F
H
I
G
ACC VOLTAGE
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Table 1. Signal Descriptions
Item Description
A Access Status LED
B Voltage Status LED
C Chassis ground
D Output LO
E Sense LO
F Triaxial connector pin Output HI
G Triaxial connector outer shield, Chassis ground
H Triaxial connector pin, Sense HI
I Triaxial connector inner shield, Guard
J Safety Interlock Input
K Safety Interlock Pass Thru, Input
L Safety Interlock Ground
M Safety Interlock Pass Thru, Ground
Table 2. LED Access Status Indicator
Status Indicator Device State
(Off) Not Powered
Green Powered
Amber Device is being accessed
Table 3. LED Voltage Status Indicator
Status
Indicator
Output Channel State Safety Interlock State
(Off) The device output is disconnected from the
voltage generation source through output
disconnect relays.
Either open or closed.
Green The device output is connected to the voltage
generation source and <42.4 V DC is present.
Open; only <42.4 V DC
is present.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 9

Table 3. LED Voltage Status Indicator (Continued)
Status
Indicator
Output Channel State Safety Interlock State
Amber The device output is connected to the voltage
generation source and ≥42.4 V DC is present.
High voltage may be generated by the device itself
or an external device.
Closed; instrument can
output up to its
maximum voltage.
Red The device has a fault or is in error due to the
voltage generated or measured by the device.
Refer to the driver software for possible sources.
The device will not operate until the error is
cleared and/or the device is reset. High voltage
may be present on the device.
Open, and instrument is
programmed to output
≥42.4 V DC.
Accessories
Table 4. PXIe-4135 Accessories
Accessory Manufacturer Part Number
Additional Connector Kit with Interlock Connector for
PXIe-4135 SMU
NI 784484-01
Safety Interlock Connector Phoenix Contact 1708595
Configuring the PXIe-4135 in MAX
Use Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) to configure your NI hardware. MAX
informs other programs about which NI hardware products are 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 NI
hardware.
Installed modules appear under the name of their associated chassis.
3. Expand your Chassis tree item.
MAX lists all modules installed in the chassis. Your default names may vary.
Note If you do not see your module listed, press <F5> to refresh the list of
installed modules. If the module is still not listed, power off the system, ensure
the module is correctly installed, and restart.
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4. Record the identifier MAX assigns to the hardware. Use this identifier when
programming the PXIe-4135.
5. Self-test the hardware by selecting the item in the configuration tree and clicking Self-
Test in the MAX toolbar.
The MAX self-test performs a basic verification of hardware resources.
Related Information
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Doesn't Appear in MAX? on page 15
Testing the Safety Interlock
To ensure safe operation of the PXIe-4135, periodically test the safety interlock for proper
functionality. The recommended test interval is at least once per day of continuous usage.
Testing with an Application Development Environment
1. Disconnect the output connector from the PXIe-4135 front panel.
2. Ensure that the safety interlock input on the test fixture is closed.
3. Set the niDCPower Output Function property or NIDCPOWER_OUTPUT_FUNCTION
attribute to DC Voltage for the PXIe-4135.
4. Set the voltage level range to 200 V, and set the voltage level to 42.4 V.
5. Set the current limit range to 1 mA, and set the current limit to 1 mA.
6. Initiate the session.
7. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is amber.
8. Open the safety interlock input using the test fixture.
9. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is red.
10. Reset the device using the niDCPower Reset VI or the niDCPower Reset function.
11. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is green.
Caution If the PXIe-4135 fails the safety interlock test, discontinue use of the
device and contact an authorized NI service representative to request a Return
Material Authorization (RMA).
Testing with the NI-DCPower Soft Front Panel
1. Disconnect the output connector from the PXIe-4135 front panel.
2. Ensure that the safety interlock input on the test fixture is closed.
3. In the NI-DCPower SFP, set Output Function to DC Voltage.
4. Set Voltage Level Range to 200 V, and set Voltage Level to 42.4 V.
5. Set Current Limit to 1 mA, and set Current Limit Range to 1 mA.
6. Ensure that Local sense is selected.
7. Check the Output Enabled checkbox to enable the output.
8. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is amber.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 11

9. Open the safety interlock input using the test fixture.
10. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is red and that a hazardous voltage error message
appears.
11. On the error message dialog, click OK to prompt the PXIe-4135 to attempt to clear the
error and re-initialize the session to default values.
12. Verify that the Voltage Status Indicator is green.
Caution If the PXIe-4135 fails the safety interlock test, discontinue use of the
device and contact an authorized NI service representative to request a Return
Material Authorization (RMA).
Self-Calibrating the PXIe-4135
Self-calibration adjusts the PXIe-4135 for variations in the module environment. Perform a
complete self-calibration after the first time you install the PXIe-4135.
1. Install the PXIe-4135 and let it warm up for 30 minutes.
Note Warm up begins when the PXI Express chassis has been powered on and
the operating system has completely loaded.
2. Self-calibrate the PXIe-4135 by clicking the Self-Calibrate button in MAX or calling
niDCPower Cal Self Calibrate or niDCPower_CalSelfCalibrate.
The PXIe-4135 modules are externally calibrated at the factory but you should perform a self-
calibration in all of the following situations:
• After first installing the PXIe-4135 in a chassis
• After any module that is in the same chassis as the PXIe-4135 is installed, uninstalled, or
moved
• When the PXIe-4135 is in an environment where the ambient temperature varies or the
PXIe-4135 temperature has drifted more than ±5 °C from the temperature at the last self-
calibration
• Within 24 hours of the previous self-calibration
Related Information
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Fails the Self-Test? on page 16
12 | ni.com | PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide

Programming the PXIe-4135
You can generate signals interactively using InstrumentStudio or you can use the NI-DCPower
instrument driver to program your device in the supported ADE of your choice.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 13

Software Location Description
InstrumentStudio InstrumentStudio is automatically installed
when you install the NI-DCPower driver on
a 64-bit system. You can access
InstrumentStudio in any of the following
ways:
• From the Windows start menu, select
National Instruments»[Driver] Soft
Front Panel. This launches
InstrumentStudio and runs a soft front
panel populated with NI-DCPower
devices.
• From the Windows start menu, select
National Instruments»
InstrumentStudio [year]. This
launches InstrumentStudio and runs a
soft front panel populated with devices
detected on your system.
• From Measurement & Automation
Explorer (MAX), select a device and
then click Test Panels.... This launches
InstrumentStudio and runs a soft front
panel for the device you selected.
When you install NI-
DCPower on a 64-bit
system, you can monitor,
control, and record
measurements from
supported devices using
InstrumentStudio.
InstrumentStudio is a
software-based soft front
panel application that
allows you to perform
interactive measurements
on several different
device types in a single
program.
14 | ni.com | PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide

Software Location Description
NI-DCPower
Instrument Driver
LabVIEW—Available on the LabVIEW
Functions palette at Measurement I/O »
NI-DCPower . Examples are available from
the Start menu in the National
Instruments folder.
The NI-DCPower API
configures and operates
the module hardware and
performs basic acquisition
and measurement
functions.
LabVIEW NXG—Available from the
diagram at Hardware Interfaces »
Electronic Test »NI-DCPower . Examples
are available from the Learning tab in the
Examples »Hardware Input and Output
folder.
LabWindows/CVI—Available at Program
Files »IVI Foundation »IVI »Drivers »
NI-DCPower . LabWindows/CVI examples
are available from the Start menu in the
National Instruments folder.
C/C++—Available at Program Files »IVI
Foundation »IVI . Refer to the Creating an
Application with NI-DCPower in Microsoft
Visual C and C++ topic of the NI DC
Power Supplies and SMUs Help (installed
with the NI-DCPower driver software) to
manually add all required include and
library files to your project. NI-DCPower
does not ship with installed C/C++
examples.
Troubleshooting
If an issue persists after you complete a troubleshooting procedure, search our KnowledgeBase
for additional information our technical support engineers create as they answer common user
questions and resolve unexpected issues.
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Doesn't Appear in
MAX?
1. In the MAX configuration tree, expand Devices and Interfaces.
2. Expand the Chassis tree to see the list of installed hardware, and press <F5> to refresh
the list.
3. If the module is still not listed, power off the system, ensure that all hardware is correctly
installed, and restart the system.
4. Navigate to the Device Manager.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 15

Operating System Description
Windows 10/8.1 Right-click the Start button, and select Device Manager.
Windows 7 Select Start»Control Panel»Device Manager.
5. Verify the PXIe-4135 appears in the Device Manager.
a) Under an NI entry, confirm that a PXIe-4135 entry appears.
Note If you are using a PC with a device for PXI remote control system,
under System Devices, also confirm that no error conditions appear for the
PCI-to-PCI Bridge.
b) If error conditions appear, reinstall NI-DCPower and the PXIe-4135.
Why Is the ACCESS LED Off When the Chassis Is
On?
The LEDs may not light until the module has been configured in MAX. Before proceeding,
verify that the PXIe-4135 appears in MAX.
If the ACCESS LED fails to light after you power on the chassis, a problem may exist with the
chassis power rails, a hardware module, or the LED.
Notice Apply external signals only while the PXIe-4135 is powered on. Applying
external signals while the module is powered off may cause damage.
1. Disconnect any signals from the module front panels.
2. Power off the chassis.
3. Remove the module from the chassis and inspect it for damage. Do not reinstall a
damaged module.
4. Install the module in a different chassis slot from which you removed it.
5. Power on the chassis.
Note If you are using a PC with a device for PXI remote control system,
power on the chassis before powering on the computer.
6. Verify that the module appears in MAX.
7. Reset the module in MAX and perform a self-test.
Related Information
For more information about LED status indicator behavior, see the front panel topic for your
device in the NI DC Power Supplies and SMUs Help.
What Should I Do if the PXIe-4135 Fails the Self-Test?
1. Restart the system.
16 | ni.com | PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide

2. Launch MAX.
• Failed self-test
1. Perform self-calibration, then perform the self-test again. The PXIe-4135 must
be calibrated to pass the self-test.
• Failed self-calibration
1. Perform self-calibration again.
3. Power off the chassis.
4. Reinstall the failed module in a different slot.
5. Power on the chassis.
6. Perform the self-test again.
NI Services
Visit ni.com/support to find support resources including documentation, downloads, and
troubleshooting and application development self-help such as tutorials and examples.
Visit ni.com/services to learn about NI service offerings such as calibration options, repair, and
replacement.
Visit ni.com/register to register your NI product. Product registration facilitates technical
support and ensures that you receive important information updates from NI.
NI corporate headquarters is located at 11500 N Mopac Expwy, Austin, TX, 78759-3504,
USA.
PXIe-4135 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments Corporation | 17

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374873D-01 July 30, 2021