Picotest G5100AGC User manual

PICOTEST®
G5100A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator
Printed date: 05/2009

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Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................................................2
1 GENERAL INFORMATION...............................................................................................6
1.1 FEATURE OVERVIEW....................................................................................................... 6
1.2 WARRANTY INFORMATION ............................................................................................. 7
1.3 PRECAUTION OF OPERATION ......................................................................................... 8
1.4 UPKEEP OF G5100A...................................................................................................... 9
1.5 SAFETY INFORMATION.................................................................................................... 9
1.6 SYMBOLS AND TERMS .................................................................................................. 10
1.7 INSPECTION .................................................................................................................. 11
1.8 OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES....................................................................................... 11
2 OVERVIEW ...........................................................................................................................12
2.1 TO ADJUST THE HANDLE ............................................................................................... 12
2.2 FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS ..................................................................................... 15
2.3 G5100A OPERATION PANELS .................................................................................... 17
2.3.1 Front Panel.......................................................................................................17
2.3.2 Rear Panel...................................................................................................18
3 COMMON OPERATIONS.................................................................................................19
3.1 GRAPH MODE................................................................................................................ 19
3.2 NUMERICAL/ALPHABETICAL ENTRY ............................................................................. 19
3.3 TO SELECT OUTPUT FUNCTION ................................................................................... 20
3.4 TO SET OUTPUT FREQUENCY/PERIOD........................................................................ 21
3.5 TO SET OUTPUT AMPLITUDE ....................................................................................... 23
3.6 TO SET DC OFFSET VOLTAGE..................................................................................... 25
3.7 TO SET HIGH-LEVEL AND LOW-LEVEL BOUNDS ....................................................... 26
3.8 TO SET WAVEFORM POLARITY .................................................................................... 27
3.9 TO SET OUTPUT TERMINATION ................................................................................... 27
3.10 TO ENABLE/DISABLE VOLTAGE AUTORANGING ...................................................... 28
3.11 TO CONTROL OUTPUT CONNECTOR.......................................................................... 29
3.12 TO ENABLED/DISABLE SYNC OUT SIGNAL.............................................................. 30
3.13 TO RESTORE THE FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS..................................................... 32
4 WAVEFORM OUTPUT OPERATIONS .......................................................................33
4.1 SINE WAVE ................................................................................................................... 33

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4.2 SQUARE WAVE.............................................................................................................. 34
4.3 RAMP WAVE .................................................................................................................. 35
4.4 NOISE WAVEFORM ....................................................................................................... 36
4.5 PULSE WAVEFORM........................................................................................................ 37
4.6 ARBITRARY WAVEFORM ............................................................................................... 39
4.7 AMPLITUDE MODULATION ............................................................................................ 41
4.8 FREQUENCY MODULATION ........................................................................................... 44
4.9 PHASE MODULATION .................................................................................................... 47
4.10 FSK MODULATION ..................................................................................................... 50
4.11 PWM WAVEFORM ...................................................................................................... 52
4.12 FREQUENCY SWEEP.................................................................................................... 54
4.13 BURST OPERATION .................................................................................................... 59
4.14 PATTERN OUTPUT....................................................................................................... 64
5 SYSTEM OPERATIONS.......................................................................................................72
5.1 TRIGGERING.................................................................................................................. 72
5.2 STORING THE INSTRUMENT STATE .............................................................................. 74
5.3 DISPLAY CONTROL ....................................................................................................... 77
5.4 BEEPER .......................................................................................................................... 78
5.5 SOUND........................................................................................................................... 78
5.6 ERROR DISPLAY ............................................................................................................ 79
5.7 CALIBRATION ................................................................................................................ 79
6 REMOTE INTERFACE OPERATIONS............................................................................80
6.1 REMOTE INTERFACE CONFIGURATION ........................................................................ 80
6.1.1 USB Interface.............................................................................................80
6.1.2 GPIB Interface ...........................................................................................80
6.1.3 LAN Interface.............................................................................................81
6.2 REMOTE INTERFACE COMMANDS................................................................................. 84
7 ERROR MESSAGES ...........................................................................................................94
7.1 COMMAND ERRORS ...................................................................................................... 95
7.2 EXECUTION ERRORS..................................................................................................... 97
7.3 DEVICE DEPENDENT ERRORS .................................................................................... 107
7.4 QUERY ERRORS .......................................................................................................... 108
7.5 INSTRUMENT ERRORS ................................................................................................ 108
7.6 SELF-TEST ERRORS ................................................................................................... 109
7.7 CALIBRATION ERRORS ............................................................................................... 110

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7.8 ARBITRARY WAVEFORM ERRORS............................................................................... 111
APPENDIX...............................................................................................................................113
ASPECIFICATION LIST .................................................................................................... 114
BREMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE................................................................................. 120
B.1.1 Command Format Used in This Manual............................................... 120
B.1.2 Command Separators ................................................................................ 121
B.1.3 Using the MIN and MAX Parameters .................................................... 122
B.1.4 Querying Parameter Settings.................................................................. 122
B.1.5 SCPI Command Terminators................................................................... 123
B.1.6 IEEE-488.2 Common Commands .......................................................... 123
B.1.7 SCPI Parameter Types............................................................................... 123
B.2 Output Data Formats................................................................................125
B.3 Command Reference................................................................................. 125
-- A to F --.................................................................................................................. 125
-- A -- ................................................................................................................ 125
-- B -- ................................................................................................................ 128
-- C -- ................................................................................................................ 131
-- D --................................................................................................................ 132
-- F --................................................................................................................. 137
-- I to O --.................................................................................................................. 148
-- I -- ................................................................................................................. 148
-- L --................................................................................................................. 148
-- M --................................................................................................................ 148
-- O --................................................................................................................ 150
-- P to Z --.................................................................................................................. 153
-- P --................................................................................................................. 153
-- R -- ................................................................................................................ 160
-- S -- ................................................................................................................ 161
-- T --................................................................................................................. 163
-- U -- ................................................................................................................ 165
-- V -- ................................................................................................................ 165
-- W -- ............................................................................................................... 169
B.4 SCPI Compliance Information................................................................ 170
B.5 IEEE-488 Compliance Information.......................................................170
B.6 Using Device Clear to Halt Measurements........................................171
C. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................................ 172

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D. APPLICATION PROGRAMS ........................................................................................... 173

1General Information
This chapter contains general information about PICOTEST G5100A
Waveform Generator. The information includes:
zFeature Overview
zWarranty Information
zPrecaution of Operation
zUpkeep of G5100A
zSafety Information
zSymbols and Terms
zInspection
zOptions and Accessories
1.1 Feature Overview
G5100A offers:
z50 MHz sine and 25 MHz square waveforms.
z14-bits, 125 MSa/s, 256 k-point arbitrary waveforms.
zPulse, ramp, noise, and dc waveforms.
zAM, FM, PM, FSK, and PWM modulation types.
zLinear and logarithmic sweeps and burst operation.
zBuilt-in external timebase (10MHz +/- 500Hz) synchronization.
z16 bits pattern out with a synchronized clock (up to 50MHz).
You can contact Picotest Corp. via the following telephone number for warranty, service, or
technical support information.
Telephone: [phone]
Website http://www.picotest.com.tw
Or contact Picotest for more help by email.
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

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zConnection via USB, LAN, and GPIB (optional).
zGraph mode for visual verification of signal settings.
zStore up to 4 waveforms in nonvolatile memory.
zEasy-to-use shortcut keys and knobs.
zFree and easy-to-use PC applications.
※Note: Full G5100A specifications are included in Appendix A.
1.2 Warranty Information
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
1. Warranty: PICOTEST CORP. guarantees that this product meets its
published specifications. Under correct installation it should work as
expected.
2. Warranty Period: This equipment is warranted against defects in
material and manufacturing for a period of one year from the date of
shipment. During the warranty period, PICOTEST is responsible for
necessary repairs as long as the product can be proved to be
defective.
For warranty service or repair this product must be returned to a
service facility designated by PICOTEST. Please contact your local
service representative for further assistance.
3. Excluded Items: This warranty does not include consumptive parts
such as fuses, USB cord, buttons and relays. Neither does this
warranty cover defects caused by improper installation, improper or
insufficient maintenance, unauthorized modification, improper
peration, ignorance of environmental specifications or improper
software or interfacing.
4. Remarks:
zNo other warranty is expressed or implied, except for the above
mentioned.
zThe remedies provided herein are the buyer’s sole and exclusive
remedies. PICOTEST shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special,
incidental or consequential damages.

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Limitation of warranty
1. Our warranties do not cover any damage resulting from unauthorized
modification or misuse.
2. Unless mentioned elsewhere in this document, our warranty does not
apply to fuses and problems arising from normal wear or user’s failure
to follow instructions.
3. Our warranties do not apply on any direct, incidental, special, or
consequential damages.
4. The above warranties are exclusive, and no other warranty is
expressed or implied. Picotest disclaims any implied warranties of
MERCHANTABILITY, SATISFACTORY QUALITY, and FITNESS for any
particular reasons.
1.3 Precaution of Operation
zPlease carefully read the manual before operating this device.
zThis manual is for reference only. Please consult your local service
representative for further assistance.
zThe contents of this manual may be amended by the manufacturer
without notice.
zNever dismantle the equipment by any unauthorized person, or
equipment may be damaged.
zThe equipment has been strictly tested for quality before delivery
from our factory. However, this equipment must not be used in
dangerous situations where damage may result.
zThis product should be placed in a safe area in case of unauthorized
use.
zThe rear protective conduct terminal needs to be connected to the
actual earth ground or electrical shock may occur.
zThe patent and the copyrights of the related documents for the
equipment belong to PICOTEST CORP., any reproduction would be
illegal.

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1.4 Upkeep of G5100A
zAlthough G5100A waveform generator is very durable and weather
resistant, care should be taken not to expose it to severe impact or
pressure.
zKeep G5100A far from water and damp environment.
zCalibration will be taken every year. Please contact your local service
representative for more information.
zIf the incorrect display or abnormal beeps occurred, you should stop
using the equipment at once.
zDo not use the waveform generator around explosive gas or
inflammable vapor.
zTo clean the surface of the waveform generator, wipe it with a piece
of dry and clean cloth.
1.5 Safety Information
Caution! Please read through the following safety information
before using the product.
To avoid possible electrical shock or personal injury, please read and
follow these guidelines carefully:
zFollow the guidelines in this manual and DO NOT use the waveform
generator if the case is damaged. Check the case and terminals, and
make sure all the devices are in the proper positions.
zThe waveform generator should be connected to the actual earth
ground to avoid electrical shock.
zDo not apply excessive voltage to the waveform generator. Apply
voltage within the rated range only.
zIf you need to open the instrument case or replace any parts, follow
the instructions in this manual. You must be a qualified technician to
perform this action.
zThe main power supply module contains a fuse rated 3.15A/250V.
When replacing the fuse (BUSSMANN F3.15A250V), use only the
same types and same rating as specified.

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zDo not try to operate the waveform generator if it is damaged.
Disconnect the power from the equipment and consult the local
service representative. Return the product to Picotest service
department if necessary.
1.6 Symbols and Terms
This symbol indicates hazards that may cause damages to the
instrument or even result in personal injury.
This symbol indicates high voltage may be present. Use extra
caution before taking any action.
This symbol indicates the frame or chassis terminal presented need
to be connected to the actual earth ground.
This symbol indicates “Protective Conductor Terminal”.
Underwriters Laboratories®.
This symbol indicates earth (ground) terminal.
This symbol indicates this product complies with the essential
requirements or the applicable European laws or directives with
respect to safety, health, environment and consumer protections.

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1.7 Inspection
Your product package is supplied with the following items:
zOne G5100A waveform generator unit. [ 107(H) x 224(W) x 380(D)
mm, approx. 3.6Kg]
zOne power cord.
zOne USB cable.
zOne pattern generator cable
zOne CD (including this electronic User's Manual and software
applications).
zOptional accessories as you ordered.
zGPIB interface card. (Optional)
1.8 Options and Accessories
The following options and accessories are available from Picotest for use
with G5100A. Please refer to Table 1-1.
Table 1-1 Accessory list.
Part Name Part Number
GPIB Card M3500A-opt04

2Overview
This chapter prepares you for using the G5100A waveform generator.
You may want to check if you have all the parts with your waveform
generator first. All our products are handled and inspected professionally
before shipping out to our customers. If you find any damaged/missing
parts or have any doubts about the product, please contact your local
service representative immediately and do not attempt to operate the
damaged product.
2.1 To Adjust the Handle
You may adjust the carrying handle to suit your needs. The following
figures show you how to do it.
I. Taking off the handle from the Waveform generator
【Step 1】(Turn up the handle)
Pull slightly outward on both sides of the handle and slowly rotate
it up vertically to 90ºas shown in Figure 2-1.
Figure 2-1

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【Step 2】(Pull out the handle)
When the handle is turned up to 90°, pull out the handle from the
waveform generator as shown in Figure 2-2.
Figure 1-2
Figure 2-2
Ⅱ. Adjusting the position for your convenience
Here are some example positions for different needs.
【Position 1】
The default position is for packing as shown in Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3

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【Position 2】
The adjusted position is for operation as shown in Figure 2-4.
Figure 2-4
【Position 3】
The adjusted position is for carrying as shown in Figure 2-5.
Figure 2-5

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2.2 Factory Default Settings
Table 2-1 shows the factory default settings of G5100A when it is
powered-on first time.
Table 2-1 Factory default settings
Parameters marked with a star ( ＊) are stored in non-volatile memory.
Output Configuration Default Setting
Function Sine wave
Frequency 1 kHz
Amplitude/Offset 100 mVpp/0.000Vdc
Output Units Vpp
Output Termination 50Ω
Autorange On
Modulation
1 kHz Sine
(AM, FM, PM, FSK)
Carrier
1 kHz Pulse
(PWM)
Mod. Waveform(AM) 100 Hz Sine
Mod. Waveform(PM, FM, PWM) 10 Hz Sine
AM Depth 100%
FM Deviation 100 Hz
PM Deviation 180 degrees
FSK Hop Frequency 100 Hz
FSK Rate 10 Hz
PWM Width Deviation 10 μs
Modulation State Off

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Sweep
Start/Stop Frequency 100 Hz/1 kHz
Sweep Time 1 sec.
Sweep Mode Linear
Sweep State Off
Burst
Burst Count 1 Cycle
Burst Period 10 ms
Burst Start Phase 0 degree
Burst State Off
System-Related Operations
Power-Down Recall Disabled
Display Mode ON
Error Queue 0 errors
Stored States, Stored Arbs
Output State Off
Triggering Operations
Trigger Source Internal (Immediate)
Remote Interface Configuration
GPIB Address 10
DHCP On
IP Address 169.254.02.020
Subnet Mask 255.255.0.0
Default Getaway 0.0.0.0
DNS Server 0.0.0.0
Host Name None
Domain Name None

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2.3 G5100A Operation Panels
Brief descriptions are provided in this chapter for all the connectors and
buttons on both front and rear panels of G5100A waveform generator.
2.3.1 Front Panel
Figure 2-6
1. Power
2. Graph/Local
3. Menu Operation Softkeys (in color grey)
4. Waveform selection keys
5. Modulation/Sweep/Burst keys
6. Store/Recall Menu Key
7. Utility Menu Key
8. Help Key
9. Knob
10. Cursor Keys
11. Manual Trigger Key
12. Output Key
13. Numeric Keypad
14. Sync output Connector
15. Main signal output Connector
※Note: When using the Menu Operation Softkeys, make sure your
selection is highlighted after you press one of the softkeys.
1
2
3
4
5
6 8
7
9
10
11
12
13
14 15

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2.3.2 Rear Panel
Figure 2-7
1. 10MHz In (External 10 MHz Reference Input) Connector
2. 10MHz Out (Internal 10 MHz Reference Output) Connector
3. Modulation In (External Modulation Input) Connector
4. Trig In/Out, FSK/Burst Connector
5. LAN Port
6. GPIB Connector(Optional)
7. USB Port
8. Digital Pattern Output / LVTTL
9. Power cord Connector
10. Vent
1
2
3 4
6
8
7
9
10
5

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3Common Operations
This chapter describes the basic operations and configurations that are
commonly used to set up a waveform output. Operations for outputting
specific waveforms are covered in chapter 4.
3.1 Graph Mode
Pressing the Graph button enables the graph mode. You can view the
waveform visually in the graph mode and change the waveform
parameters by using the knob and the cursor keys. The parameter values
that the knob can reach in the graph mode are limited due to resolution.
To fine-adjust the parameters, use the numeric keypad to input the
desired value or return to the menu mode. Press the Graph button again
to leave the graph mode and return to the menu mode.
Figure 3-1 menu mode
Figure 3-2 graph mode
3.2 Numerical/Alphabetical Entry
There are 12 buttons on the numeric keypad, two cursor keys and a
turning knob on the front panel provided for the numeric entry.
•Numerical entry-----When entering a numeric value, you can select

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a desired value directly on the numeric keypad or use the cursor keys
to move the cursor on the display and increase or decrease the digit
by turning the knob.
When you use the numeric keypad, all the available units for the entry
will be shown on the display. Press the softkey under the desired unit
to finish the entry, or press Cancel to withdraw the changes.
•Alphabetical entry-----If you are asked to enter a string of
alphabetic letters, turn the knob until the desired letter appears on
the display. Use the cursor keys to move the cursor for entering next
letter or modify the letter previously entered. You may also use the
+/- key on keypad to delete the letter previously entered.
3.3 To Select Output Function
G5100A provides various output functionality:
•Standard waveforms: G5100A provides five standard
waveforms: sine, square, ramp, pulse and noise. The default
waveform output is sine wave.
•Arbitrary waveforms: There are additional five built-in arbitrary
waveforms available. Or you can create your own custom
waveform with Wavepatt software which came with the unit.
•Modulation: The waveform generator also provides modulation
for sine, square, ramp and arbitrary waveforms using AM, FM, PM,
or FSK. You can also use PWM to modulate pulse waveform.
•Frequency sweeping: Linear and logarithmic frequency
sweeping modes are available for sine, square, ramp and arbitrary
waveforms.
•Burst operation: The burst waveforms can be generated with
any one of the standard or arbitrary waveforms (except dc).
Front-panel Operation
To select a desired output function, press the corresponding button and
then set up related parameters as needed. Refer to Chapter 4 for setting
up each individual waveform type.