Time Electronics 5018 User manual

User Manual
5018
Programmable Voltage and Current
Calibrator
Revision 2206-1
Time Electronics Ltd
Unit 5, TON Business Park, 2-8 Morley Road,
Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1RA, United Kingdom.
T: [phone] | F: [phone]
[e-mail] | www.timeelectronics.com

© 2022 Time Electronics Ltd.
All rights reserved.
Nothing from this manual may be multiplied, or made public in any form or manner, either
electronically or hard copy, without prior written consent from Time Electronics Ltd.
This also applies to any schematics, drawings and diagrams contained herein.
This manual provides operating and safety instructions for the Time Electronics product.
To ensure correct operation and safety, please follow the instructions in this manual.
Time Electronics reserves the right to change the contents, specifications and other
information contained in this manual without notice.

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5018 Programmable Voltage and Current Calibrator Revision 2206-1
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Contents
1Introduction....................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Overview................................................................................................................................................4
1.2 Important Information ............................................................................................................................5
1.3 Specifications ........................................................................................................................................6
1.4 Installation .............................................................................................................................................8
2Front Panel Controls ...................................................................................................................10
2.1 Keypad and Display............................................................................................................................. 10
2.2 Keypad Buttons ................................................................................................................................... 11
2.3 Display Readout .................................................................................................................................. 12
2.4 Rotary Knob.........................................................................................................................................13
2.5 Terminals.............................................................................................................................................14
2.6 Display LEDs .......................................................................................................................................15
3Front Panel Operation .................................................................................................................16
3.1 Unit start-up ......................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2 How to select a Function ..................................................................................................................... 17
3.3 DC Voltage or Current DCV DCI .......................................................................................................18
3.4 Using Deviation Mode DV% ..............................................................................................................24
3.5 Safety Interlock Feature ......................................................................................................................26
3.6 AC Voltage or Current (option) ACV ACI ..........................................................................................27
3.7 Setup Options SET............................................................................................................................ 30
4Remote Operation........................................................................................................................ 32
4.1 Communications Interface...................................................................................................................32
4.2 Remote Commands.............................................................................................................................35
5Ramping .......................................................................................................................................43
5.1 Remote Commands.............................................................................................................................44
6Fault Diagnosis............................................................................................................................45
6.1 Startup Errors ......................................................................................................................................45
6.2 Basic Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................................45
7Re-Calibration ..............................................................................................................................46
8Warranty and Servicing............................................................................................................... 47

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1Introduction
1.1 Overview
The 5018 is a versatile programmable calibrator capable of covering a wide range of testing
applications. It can be configured as a single function DC voltage source or advanced AC/DC
voltage and current calibrator controlled via PC or laptop, performing any number of tasks as
part of a complex ATE test rig.
It is suitable for automated signal injection in R&D and manufacturing applications where a
stable and accurate source is required. The compact form factor means it takes up minimal
bench space in the lab, or an optional 19" rack mount kit is available for integration into a
modular test equipment setup.
GPIB, RS-232 and USB interfaces allow the 5018 to be connected to a PC and controlled by
an external program such as EasyCal calibration software. The 5018 uses a SCPI command
structure for programming. This makes writing control programs in Visual Basic, C and
Labview a simple task.
Features
•0 to 22 V DC
•220 V and 1 kV DC options
•0 to 220 mA AC/DC options
•0 to 22 V AC option
•Ramping feature
•GPIB / RS-232 / USB interfaces
•EasyCal Software compatible
Internal Factory Fitted Options
•9718: Current option (220 mA max)
•9719: AC option (22 V max)
•9721: 200 V DC option
•9720: 1 kV DC option (includes 200 V DC option 9721)
External Options
•19” Rack Mount Kit
•Test Lead Sets
•Soft Carry Case
•Low noise attenuators (low level AC/DC signals with low noise)
•EasyCal calibration software and peripherals

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1.2 Important Information
Warning: The 5018 is a heavy instrument and care should be taken when lifting
to prevent injury. Use both handles to carry.
Warning: If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. This instrument must
be connected to a grounded outlet.
High Voltage
The 5018 is capable of producing 1000 V and users should be aware of the
dangers involving serious electrical shock.
Warning: If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
This instrument must be connected to a grounded outlet.
This instrument is to be serviced by trained personnel only.
Disconnect mains supply before removing cover or replacing fuses.
For operations involving removal of the 5018’s cover, users should be aware
that certain sections of the circuitry carry high voltages, which are hazardous.
Very high currents causing burns can also be generated if certain terminals
are inadvertently shorted.

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1.3 Specifications
1.3.1 Technical Specifications
Accuracy specifications are shown as ppm (or %) of output + floor and apply for settings between 10 % and 100 % of range.
Specifications apply at an ambient temperature of 23 °C ± 5 °C after the calibrator has warmed up for at least 1 hour.

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1.3.2 General Specifications
Warm up: 1 hour to full accuracy.
Settling time: Less than 5 seconds.
Standard interfaces: GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, USB.
Temperature performance: Operating: 10 to 40 °C, Full Spec: 23 °C ± 5 °C, Storage: -10 to 50 °C.
Operating humidity / Altitude: < 80 % non-condensing. Altitude: 0 to 3 km. Non-operating 3 to 12 km.
Line power: 100 to 230 V AC 50/60 Hz. Power consumption 60 W typical, 100 W maximum.
Max Voltage between terminals: Between V+ and V- terminals: < 1500V peak
Between V- and Earth: < 75V peak
Dimensions / Weight: W 450 x D 272 x H 152 mm (18 x 11 x 7 ”) / 8.2 kg (18 lbs).
Supplied with: User manual, RS-232 cable, USB adaptor/cable.
1.3.3 Ordering Information
5018...................................................... Programmable DC/AC V/I Calibrator
9718........................................................ Internal Current option (220 mA max)
9719.................................................................... Internal AC option (22 V max)
9721............................................................................ Internal 200 V DC option
9720.........................Internal 1 kV DC option (includes 200 V DC option 9721)
9728...................................................................... 19 ” universal rack mount kit
9541...................................................................................... Basic test lead set
9796.................................................................................Premium test lead set
C142................................................. Traceable calibration certificate (Factory)
C104...........................................Accredited calibration certificate (ISO 17025)
9766......................................................... External low noise attenuator 1000:1
9767........................................................... External low noise attenuator 100:1
9795......................................................................... Printer and connectivity kit
ECFLA ........................EasyCal Software (see separate datasheet for options)

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1.4 Installation
1.4.1 Positioning the Instrument
Benchtop Use
The 5018 should always be positioned on a flat, firm surface. The instrument base is fitted
with four feet. The front feet have tilt legs to angle the instrument upwards for ergonomic
front panel operation.
•A 10 cm area of free space is recommended at the rear of the instrument.
•Do not obstruct the fan inlet on the rear of the instrument.
•Do not obstruct any exhaust outlets on the bottom of the instrument.
•Do not place objects or materials under the instrument.
Rack Mounting
A 19” rack mount option is also available. In this configuration mounting brackets replace the
carry handles.
Cleaning
When cleaning the 5018 use an alcohol-free wipe such as a ‘durable screenclean 50’.
Packaging
The 5018 is supplied in a carton with protective inserts. Retain the shipping box and internal
packaging for future use. If the unit is returned to Time Electronics for calibration, please use
this original packaging to avoid possible damage in transit.

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Power ON/OFF
Fuses
1.4.2 Mains (Line) Power Supply
The supply power is connected via a standard IEC Euro connector on the rear panel. The
standard voltage supply is 220/230 V 50 Hz. There are two protection fuses mounted on the
rear panel next to the IEC connector, both are 3.15 A slow blow.
Mains Power Unit - Rear Panel
For information on PC communication and settings see the Remote Operation Section.
Cooling Fan
Power Inlet
Connector

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2Front Panel Controls
2.1 Keypad and Display
Display readout
Output on
button
Function
indicators
Rotary knob
mode
LEDs
Function
button
Polarity
button
Full scale
button
Rotary
knob
OK/Local
button
Up/down
0.0.0.0..0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
Zero/Home
button
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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2.2 Keypad Buttons
2.2.1 Function Selection Buttons
Function selection is initiated by pressing the “Function/Range” button.
The function indicators flash to prompt a selection. This informs the user that the buttons
adjoining the indicators are now function selectors:
The Function/Range button can also be pressed after a function has been selected and is
in use. The function indicators will flash show they are selectable. Any modes or setting
buttons available for use will also flash. The user can choose to:
•Select a new function.
•Select a new range or setting for the present function, by pressing the same function.
•DV%: Deviation mode if available on the present function.
•SET: Settings menu.
Function
Select
Function
Select
Function
Select
Function
Select
Function
Select
Mode
Select
Function
Select Select
Inactive DC
Voltage
DC
Current
AC
Voltage
(option)
AC
Current
(option)
Incacitve
Hz for
AC options
Inactive Aux
(option)
Setup
Menu
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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2.2.2 Output Value Setting Buttons
Setting an output value is performed by using the up/down buttons for the following functions:
DC Voltage, DC Current, AC Voltage (option), AC Current (option).
The buttons are in-line with the numerical readout to the as shown below:
2.3 Display Readout
An alphanumeric display. During calibrator output operation shows the following:
•Output value.
•Output unit of measure (mV, V, mA, A, Hz etc).
•Function range or setting depending on the function.
Note: Display resolution depends on the function and operating range.
-.0.0.2.3.4.5.6
UP UP UP UP UP UP UP
DOWN DOWN DOWN DOWN DOWN DOWN DOWN
Output value
-..0.0.0.0.0.0.0
V 20V
Output
polarity
Output
units
Range or
setting
depending on
function
Sets the full
scale of the
current range
Zero’s the
current range
Changes
polarity
Sends output
to terminals

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2.4 Rotary Knob
The rotary knob is used to select ranges, settings and options. It is adjusted clockwise or
anti-clockwise to the required selection. The “Deviation” or “Option/Range” LEDs illuminate
to prompt usage of the rotary knob for the required operation. Ranges, options and settings
are activated by pressing the “OK” button after selection. Deviation is a mode that provides
percentage increase/decrease of an output and is active in real time.
The rotary knob is used for the following:
•Range selection (DC V, DC I, AC V, AC I).
•Deviation mode.
•Settings options.
When illuminated the
rotary knob can be
used to deviate the
output.
When illuminated the rotary
knob can be used to scroll
through a list of selectable
options
presented on the
display. Primarily used for
range selection.
-.0.0.5.0.5.0.0
mV -.025
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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2.5 Terminals
The terminal configuration for the 5018.
Terminal LED Indicator
LED indicates active terminal
:
•ON when outputting
•FLASHING when in standby (no output)
Earth Terminal
Main Output Terminals

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2.6 Display LEDs
Error LED
Flashes to indicate an output error condition,
e.g. if no load is connected during current output.
Stays lit to indicate a remote interface error.
See “Remote Operation” section for details.
Data and Remote LEDs
Used to indicate remote mode activity.
See “Remote Operation” section of this
manual for more details.

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3Front Panel Operation
3.1 Unit start-up
After switching on, the 5018 goes through a start-up routine that includes:
•Instrument self-test and health check routine.
•Front panel LEDs illuminate.
•Sounds the buzzer.
•Displays the model number and the firmware version number.
•Displays the communication type and setting.
•On completion of the start-up routine, the word “Ready” is shown on the display.
Note:
If any error codes are displayed during start-up, please refer to the “Fault Diagnosis” section later in this manual.
-
Ready
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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3.2 How to select a Function
1. Press the “Function” button.
2. The function indicators will then flash to prompt a selection.
3. Select the desired function by pressing adjacent button. In this example DC Voltage.
Once pressed, the function (DC V) will be the only indicator to remain illuminated, showing it
is the selected function.
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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3.3 DC Voltage or Current DCV DCI
DC Voltage and DC Current have common operation steps. Shown here is DC V.
1. Press the “Function”button then “DC V” button.
2. The function range will now flash in the right-hand side of the display.
The “Option/Range” LED flashes to prompt selection using the rotary knob.
Adjust the knob to the required range.
Note: if DC high voltage options are present 200 V and 1 kV ranges will be selectable
When the required range is displayed, press the “Confirm” button as highlighted by the
flashing LED.
0.0.0.0.0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
20mV
200mV
2V
20V
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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3. To set the required output voltage, increment or decrement the individual digits by using
the “Up (∆) or Down (∇)” buttons.
The polarity of the output can be changed by pressing the “+/-” button.
0.0.0.3..0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
-.0. 0.3..0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET

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It is possible to set the output to zero in one step by pressing the “Zero” button.
Return to the previous setting by pressing the “Zero” button once more.
Full-scale of the present range can also be selected in one step by pressing the “F/S” button.
Return to the previous setting by pressing the “Full Scale” button once more.
-.0.0.0..0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET
-.0.2.0..0.0.0.0
mV 20mV
DC V
DC I
AC V
AC I
HZ
DV%
AUX
SET