UNIVERSAL PULSE GENERATOR

MODEL 6040

The Model 6040 System consists of a crystal-controlled programmable pulse/digital delay generator mainframe and a family of optional plug-in modules. The 6040 itself generates TTL and ECL outputs at rates to 100MHz with 1 ns or less rise times and a 1 nanosecond resolution for pulse width, delay and double pulse timing.

The interchangeable modules provide the instrument with additional capabilities such as faster transition times, higher pulse amplitudes, and generating optical pulses.

The following warnings, which appear both here and in the main body of the test, are to alert the user of potential safety hazards and to encourage safe operating practices.

 

WARNING: To remove all ac power from the unit the line cord must be unplugged.

 

WARNING: To avoid accidental shock, unplug the line cord and turn the power off before checking or replacing the fuse. For protection against fire, use only the specified fuse value. Do not attempt to bypass or repair the fuse.

The following cautions, which appear both here and in the main body of the text, are to prevent equipment damage that could result from improper operation.

SECTION 1

Figure 1-1. 6040 Trigger and Output Pulse Timing

GPIB/RS-232 COMMAND LIST SUMMARY

Table 1-1. GPIB/RS-232 Command List

Category	Command	Description
Status:	ES	Error Status
	IS	Instrument status
	PS	Module status
Panel Control:
MODE:	MO PL	Pulse
	MO IM	Impulse
	MO CW	C.W.
	MO EM	External Modulation
TRIGGER:	TR IN {f}	Internal rep-rate generator {set to f Hz}
	TR ET {v}	External Trigger {threshold set to v volts}
	TR EP	External Trigger Slope, positive
	TR EN	External Trigger Slope, negative
	TR ED {v}	External Drive {threshold set to v volts}
	TR SC	Single Cycle
TIMING:	TI DL {t}	Timing Delay {set to t seconds}
	TI WD {t}	Timing Width {set to t seconds}
	TI SP	Single Pulse
	TI DP	Double Pulse
LEVEL:	LV PK{x}	Peak {set to x units (V, W, dBm)}
	LV BL {x}	Baseline {set to x units (V, W, dBm)}
	LV AV {x}	CW {set to x units (V, W, dBm)}
	LV EM {x}	External Modulation {set to x units (V, W, dBm)}
MEMORY:	ST i	Store instrument setting in memory i (0-9)
	RE i	Recall instrument setting from memory i (0-9)
FUNCTIONS:	FA	Execute function key A
	FB	Execute function key B
	FC	Execute function key C
SCAN:	LF {i}	Move cursor left (i times)
	RT {i}	Move cursor right (i times)
	UP {i}	Increment digit (i times)
	DN {i}	Decrement digit (i times)
Display:	DS ON	Display on
	DS OFF	Display off
	DS ST {c}	Display ASCII string c
Supplemental:	CL	Clear Instrument
	;	Suppress activation in hardware
	EX	Execute
	RL	Reload into hardware

Table 1-2. Instrument Status Byte

Bit	Description
7	Always zero
6	Always zero
5	Always zero
4	Always zero
3	Trigger has occurred
2	Overlap
1	PLL out of lock
0	Timing cycle in progress

Table 1-3. Error Status Byte

Bit	Description
7	Always zero
6	Always zero
5	Always zero
4	Always zero
3	Always zero
2	Always zero
1	Overrange
0	Unrecognized command

The Module Status byte is module dependent. Refer to the module's instruction manual.


SECTION 2

OPERATING INFORMATION

GENERAL

POWER UP

When power is first applied, the mainframe performs a test to determine if a module is installed. If a module is present, the limits for each module dependent parameter are transferred to the mainframe. The memory is checked for any errors and the parameters in memory 0 are loaded into the mainframe.

If a module is not present, the parameters are set as indicated in Table 2-1.

When the 6040 is first turned on, the display will show the software version number. If a module is present, the LCD will then momentarily display "MEMORY CHECK," followed by the module I.D. display. Without a module, the display will read "6040 No Plug-In."

To install a module, turn the power off, slide the module in and tighten the mount screw knob.

The instrument should be allowed to warm up for 30 minutes before high precision mesurements are made. Less critical tests can be performed immediately after turn-on. Please refer to the module's manual to determine if it requires an additional warm up period.

The safety warnings and cautions that appear in this manual are listed at the end of the table of contents. Some modules have high voltage or laser outputs and additional safety precautions should be taken. See the module manual for details.

The electrical signal inputs and outputs have fast rise and fall times containing frequency components far in excess of 100 MHz. All signal handling components such as loads, cables, attenuators, connectors and oscilloscopes should have a response exceeding 100 MHz and preferably 350 MHz. Cable and load impedance mismatch will cause signal reflections and result in distorted waveforms and measurement errors. Some sampling oscilloscopes will require attenuators to protect their inputs.

To start, make sure that the line cord is plugged in all the way, and that the power-on key switch is in the ON position. Verify that the ll5 V/230 V selection switch is properly set for your area. (If it is not, unplug the line cord and move the switch. Make sure the proper fuse in in place before plugging the cord back in.)

With the line cord unplugged check the fuse. Make sure that it has not blown and that it is of the correct value for the line voltage being used.

When ac power is applied, you should be able to hear the fan. The unit will not operate properly if the side vents are blocked.

A thermal cutoff switch will shut off the power to everything but the fan should the temperature exceed 50o C. Power will be restored when the unit has cooled sufficiently. Make sure that the fan and the side vents are not blocked, and that the fan is operating properly.

With the power off, make sure that the module is seated correctly in the mainframe.

If there are no characters on the LCD or the contrast is poor, a simple internal adjustment may solve the problem (see the calibration procedure for details).

If the instrument turns on, but is completely unresponsive to the keyboard or displays the error message "Invalid Function," then the module's memory may have been corrupted causing the instrument to "hang up." To correct for this, turn the unit off, then hold down the ENTER key, and turn the power back on. This will initialize the module's memory to its default settings (see the module's manual for the specific values).

Since the 6040 uses a modular approach, operating problems can arise from either the mainframe unit or the installed module: the problem must be localized to one or the other. To test the mainframe, turn the power off, remove the module, and switch the power back on. Press the TRIG key until the internal trigger parameter is displayed ("Trig Int: 1.000 kHz"). Press the {1} key, the {10x} key, the {5} key, and the ENTER key in sequence. The display will read "Trg Int: 100.0 kHz."

Connect the TRIG OUT and PULSE OUT to channels A and B of an oscilloscope. Trigger the oscilloscope on the leading edge of TRIG OUT. Set the oscilloscope for 1 æs per division. Display the PULSE OUT. A pulse of +5 V amplitude and 1 æs duration should occur 1 æs into the sweep.

Press the TIMING key to display the Delay parameter ("Delay: 1.000 æs"). Move the cursor (using the { } key) to underline the 1 æs decade. Now use the increment key { } to increase the Delay noting that the incidence of PULSE OUT moves in 1 æs steps. Repeat this with the Width parameter to change the duration of PULSE OUT.

For quick testing of the module, repeat the above using the module output (an optical detector may be necessary). Since some modules may have rep rate and width limitations, the specific values above may have to be modified, but the general procedure is the same.

For remote operation from either GPIB or RS-232, the {GPIB/RS-232} key menu must be set to display "Remote Enabled."

When using the GPIB, make sure that the GPIB cable is properly attached and that the address is specified correctly. The default address is 6, but may be set between 1 and 30.

The 6040 will respond to remote commands only if the Remote Enable line (REM) is asserted. When this happens the LCD will display "GPIB Remote Mode," and all keys except LOCAL will be disabled.

The LOCAL key allows the user to return to manual operation (unless the GPIB command LLO has disabled it).

For the RS-232, again check the cable, but also verify that Baud Rate and Duplex are set correctly.

The power switch, located in the lower left corner of the front panel, is keyed to prevent unauthorized use. The key can be removed only when the switch is turned to the off position.

The 6040 has a 20-character liquid crystal display (LCD). This displays all menus and data while the unit is being programmed from the front panel. In the following descriptions the display for each menu is given.

The front panel has a set of seven LED indicators on the left side of the panel. The upper four LEDs, labeled PULSE, IMPLS (Impulse), CW (Continuous Wave) and MOD (External Modulation), reflect the current Mode setting. This allows continuous monitoring of the Mode setting.

The next two LEDs, labeled TRIG'D (triggered) and OVRLP (overlap), are used to indicate the status of triggering in the Pulse and Impulse Modes. The TRIG'D LED is illuminated if there is a signal present at the front panel TRIG IN jack that exceeds the threshold setting for an external trigger. The OVRLP LED indicates that a potential triggering error exists. It blinks when the combination of rep rate, Width and Delay results in some pulses not being generated. This occurs when the Minimum Pulse Separation and Maximum Delay conditions are not met (see the Specifications section).

Finally, the bottom LED is labeled REM (remote) and indicates that the 6040 is under remote computer control (via GPIB or RS-232).

The 6040 has two keypads. The left keypad is used to control the operating state (Trigger, Timing, Mode, etc.) and to modify existing parameters (increment/decrement value). The right keypad is used primarlily to enter numeric data for new parameters. It is also used to toggle the states of certain parameters (e.g. Single Pulse/Double Pulse) and to trigger the instrument under Single Cycle operation.

Some of these keys are dependent on the presence of a plug-in module. For example, the LEVEL, STORE and RECALL keys function only with a module installed. The keys on the control keypad can be divided into the following subsets: menu key, memory keys, function keys, and scan keys, as well as the LOCAL and UNITS keys.

The five menu keys, MODE, TRIG, TIMING, LEVEL, and GPIB/RS-232, step through a number of possible states or parameter displays, allowing the user to configure the instrument's operating characteristics. The memory keys, STORE and RECALL, allow storage and retrieval of ten complete instrument settings. The function keys are reserved for use with future modules. The scan keys, {}, {}, {}, and {} are used to modify parameters that have been previously entered.

The two remaining keys do not fall into any of the above categories. The LOCAL key returns instrument control to the front panel from either GPIB or RS-232. The UNITS key allows the user to select between different display units for the level parameter (an optical unit, for example, may allow the display of the level settings in units of either Watts or dBm).

The right keypad is similar to a calculator. It has keys for the decimal digits (0-9), the decimal point (.), sign change (), exponent (10x), backspace (BK SPC), enter (ENTER), and execute (EXEC). ENTER and EXEC are used to terminate data entry and also to trigger a Single Cycle timing sequence. The {, SGL/DBL} key is used both to indicate negative values and to toggle between Single Pulse and Double Pulse operation.

There are three BNC connectors on the front panel. These are used in the Pulse and Impulse Modes to monitor or trigger the pulse generator.

PULSE OUT provides waveform synchronized to TRIG OUT. The time position (with respect to TRIG OUT) and duration of this output are set by the Delay and Width, respectively. PULSE OUT produces pulses of a fixed +5 V amplitude (into 50 ohms) with 1 ns rise times and an 1.5 ns fall times.

PULSE OUT is nominally coincident with the plug-in module's output. The "module delay" (the fixed time between the mainframe PULSE OUT and the module output) depends on the module being used and is given in the module manual. In Impulse Mode, PULSE OUT has a fixed width of 5 ns (the Width setting has no effect in Impulse Mode).

TRIG IN is the input for external triggers. It has a 50 ohm input impedance, can take input voltages up to ±:7 V dc or 7 V ac pk, and accepts frequencies up to 100 MHz.

TRIG OUT is the time marker for the beginning of a timing cycle. TRIG OUT has fixed +3 V amplitude (into 50 ohms), a 3 ns width, and transition times of 3 ns. In External Trigger operation, TRIG OUT will occur 20 ns after the TRIG IN signal.

The plug-in module receptacle is on the right side of the front panel, and accepts a single BNC 6040 plug-in module. The receptacle consists of an alignment guide, one 40-pin edge connector, and one ConheX coaxial connector.

The 40-pin edge connector allows the 6040 mainframe to control and communicate with the module and also supplies the power to the module.

The ConheX connector delivers the high speed pulse generator DRIVE signal to the module. This signal is an ECL version of the mainframe's front panel PULSE OUT.

Located on the rear panel are the GPIB and RS-232 bus interface connectors, the ECL OUT jack, MODULE DISABLE jack, RESET pushbutton, line voltage selection switch and fuse. There is also a heat sink for the power supply regulators, a line cord receptacle and the cooling fan.

In the upper left corner is the connector for interfacing with an IEEE-488 GPIB bus. This allows full control of the unit via a remote controller. All front panel settings can be controlled and any parameter can be read.

In the upper center-left corner is the RS-232 connector. As with the GPIB bus, all front panel settings can be controlled and all parameters read.

This SMA connector provides an ECL version of the PULSE OUT output. Negative pulses, switching from -0.8 V to -1.8 V (standard ECL "low true" levels) with transition times of 700 ps, are produced nominally coincident with the positive pulses generated from the PULSE OUT jack.

The MODULE DISABLE jack is used in conjunction with optical plug-in modules. This allows the user to disable the module output from a remote location. The connector is an audio phone jack that is normally closed (grounded). When a phone plug is inserted, the jack leads are opened so a plug with a two conductor cord and a switch can be used for control. Whenever the switch is open, the module output will be disabled.

The RESET pushbutton initiates a power-on sequence. This resets the microprocessor board which in turn resets all hardware to its power-on settings.

This switch allows operation on either 117 V ac (U.S.) or 234 V ac (European), as well as giving the fuse value for that line setting (1.5 A 3AG Slo-Blo for 117 V, 0.75 A 3AG Slo-Blo for 234 V). Below this switch are the line cord and fuse receptacles. The switch is factory preset and should not be moved unless a new line voltage is used. Note that a new fuse value is required as well for a new line voltage.

The front panel control of the 6040 has been optimized for ease of use and understanding. The control and modification of the operating Mode, states and parameters are realized by a set of control keys. Some of these keys have a single parameter or state associated with them (such as the STORE key), while others have a menu of selections (for example, the MODE key).

For menu keys, the user can sequence through the selections by successively asserting the given key. A menu item is chosen simply by stopping at that item. So that the user may see what selection is in effect on another key without altering the setting, sequencing is done only on repeated assertions of a key. So, for example, the first time the MODE key is pressed, it will simply display the active Mode. Only when it is pressed a second time (without pressing another key) will it cycle to the next Mode selection.

The MODE and TRIG menu keys change the operating state of the 6040 directly. As the user sequences through the Mode menu, the state of the module's output is modified in accordance with the displayed Mode (Pulse, CW, etc.). Similarly, as the user sequences through the Trigger menu, the Trigger source for the pulse generator is set in accordance with the display (Internal, External, Single Cycle).

The TIMING, LEVEL and GPIB/RS-232 keys simply display parameter values and do not change the operating characteristics unless these parameters are modified. The TIMING key, for example, allows the user to examine the Width, Delay and Single/Double Pulse parameters. Only if the user modifies the displayed setting will the operating state of the machine change.

Each plug-in module has its own set of available menu selections. Electrical modules, for example, do not have a CW option in the Mode menu. Manuals for each module describes the menus and range of parameter values that correspond to the module.

Although the user has access to all the parameters and menu items (for a given module) at all times, their action is Mode dependent. Table 2-2 gives a general chart of the menu keys, showing which menu selections have control in each Mode. An x in the column for a given Mode indicates that a menu selection (or parameter modification) has an effect in that Mode.

Note that modifying a given parameter will only change the current operating state of the machine if the parameter is valid for the current Mode setting. For example, in the CW Mode, the parameters associated with the TRIG (Trigger) and TIMING keys will not affect the current operating state (but they will become valid when the Mode is subsequently set to Pulse). Another example is the LEVEL key. For the Pulse Mode, the External Modulation Level parameter will not affect the module's output. Again, only after setting the Mode to External Modulation will this setting become pertinent.

A parameter can be altered by two methods: by entering a totally new number using the numeric keypad or by altering the present value incrementally using the scan keys.

To enter an entirely new value, simply type in the desired value using the digit, decimal point, sign (where appropriate), and exponent keys, and then use either the EXEC (execute) or ENTER key to terminate the data entry. During the entry of values any errors can be corrected using the BK SPC (backspace) key. If the user decides midstream not to modify the parameter, pressing any menu key will nullify the data entry. If the menu key is the one associated with the given parameter, the parameter will be redisplayed with its previous value.

EXAMPLE: To set the repetition rate to 1 kHz, the following sequence is possible:


1) Assert TRIG and the display reads:
<Ext Drv: 1.00 V>


This means that the last sequencing of the TRIG key selected for External Drive (available with certain modules).


2) Assert TRIG again and the display reads:
<Trg Int: 900.0 Hz>


We have now sequenced the TRIG menu to the Internal Trigger section and are ready to modify the parameter.


3) Any of the following will achieve the goal:
1000 {ENTER}
1.00 {l0x} 3 {EXEC} 2 {BK SPC} 0.1 {l0x} 4 {ENTER} (here we used the backspace key)


The display will now read:
<Trg Int: 1.000 kHz>

The method for other parameters is the same as above. The decimal point {.} and exponent {10^x} keys, however, are not recognized for parameters such as bus address. Also, for parameters that are not signed, the {±} key is not recognized.

Note that when used to change Delay or Width parameters, the ENTER and EXEC key differ slightly. EXEC terminates the current timing cycle and will turn off a pulse if one is in progress. ENTER allows the current timing cycle to complete but prevents the keyboard from responding to new input until the timing cycle has finished.

If a value is entered that is outside the range of acceptable values, the display will momentarily display "Range Error," after which the original value is redisplayed. Parameter Scanning

The second method of altering a parameter is incremental. First display the desired parameter. Then choose the desired digit with the cursor using the left {} and right {} keys. Once the digit is selected, the increment {} and decrement {} keys allow the incremental modification of the existing value.

In addition, the value will be multiplied (or divided) by ten if the left (or right) key is pressed when the cursor is located at the most (or least) significant digit. This simulates the verniered tuning and range switch associated with analog pulse generators.

If an attempt is made to scan a parameter outside the range of acceptable values, a display of "Range Error" will remain until the scan key is released, at which time the parameter's value is again displayed.

EXAMPLE: The user could modify the Delay parameter as follows.



Key Hit:	Display:	Comments:
{TIMING}	<Delay: 1.2340 ms >	Display previous Delay parameter
{}	<Delay: 2.2340 ms >	Increment Delay
{}	<Delay: 22.340 ms >	Multiply Delay by 10
{}	<Delay: 223.40 ms >	Multiply Delay by 10
{}	<Delay: 223.40 ms >	Move cursor right (asserting {} 4 times)
{}	<Delay: 223.39 ms >	Decrement Delay
{}	<Delay: 22.339 ms >	Divide Delay by 10

All plug-in modules are equipped with a nonvolatile memory. This allows the user to store ten complete instrument settings. Included in each of these are all the parameter values (whether active or not) for the Mode, Trigger, Timing and Level menus as well as which menu selections are currently in effect. These memories are accessed by the STORE and RECALL keys.

To save the present panel state, press STORE followed by the digit key for the memory location desired. To retrieve a previously saved panel state, press RECALL, followed by the digit key of the desired memory. (Note that the ENTER and EXEC keys are not used.)

The GPIB/RS-232 menu parameters are not accessed or retrieved by STORE and RECALL. Instead, the most recent setting for each selection on the GPIB/RS-232 menu is automatically stored in the module. These go into effect as soon as the instrument is turned on (with the module plugged in).

The following is a detailed description of each key on the control keypad. The discussion follows the grouping given in the Keypads section. The operation of each key is provided along with the dependence that key may have on the presence of a plug-in module. The display associated with each state of the key's operation is shown.

In the diagrams for the display, the character x denotes a digit, and an asterisk (*) denotes an exponential unit (e.g. æ for micro-, k for kilo-, M for mega-).

For the menu keys, an overall chart, showing which menu selections have control in each Mode, is given in Table 2-2. An x in the column for a given Mode indicates that the menu selection operates in that Mode. Note that not all Modes and not all menu selections apply to each module (the appropriate module manuals provide details on this).

Table 2-3 gives a list of the menu selections available for the 6040 when used as a stand alone instrument (without a module installed).

These keys allow the storage (retrieval) of a complete panel setting to (from) the "ith" memory in the module. To store (retrieve) a panel setting, press STORE (RECALL) followed by the "ith" digit. This causes the immediate transfer to (from) memory: the ENTER and EXEC keys are not used to terminate the memory transfer.

{STORE}	Allows the storage of the present machine state in one of ten (nonvolatile) memory locations in the module. This is operable only with a plug-in module installed. Front Panel Display: < Store Set (0-9): i > < Stored as Set i >
{RECALL}	Allows the retrieval of one of ten previously stored machine states. This is operable only with a plug-in module installed. Front Panel Display: < Recall Set (0-9): i > < Recalled Set i >

Scan Keys

{} Increments the digit that is underlined by the cursor.
{} Decrements the digit that is underlined by the cursor.
{} Moves the cursor one digit to the left. If the cursor is at the most significant digit, the value will be multiplied by ten.
{} Moves the cursor one digit to the right. If the cursor is at the least significant digit, the value will be divided by ten.

Function Keys

{A}, {B}, {C}

These keys are reserved for use with future modules. Front Panel Display: < Function A > < Function B > < Function C >

Miscellaneous Keys

{UNITS}	Used to select between parameter display units. This is plug-in module dependent.
{LOCAL}	Returns control to front panel from either GPIB or RS-232 remote operation. This is not plug-in module dependent. Front Panel Display: < LOCAL >
Note: This display appears only on the return to local from remote operation. Also, under GPIB operation, the bus command LLO can disable this key.

NUMERIC KEY DESCRIPTIONS

The following is a detailed description of each key on the numeric keypad.

{0}...{9}	The digits zero through nine.
{.}	The decimal point.
{±, SGL/DBL}	Changes the sign of a parameter entered using the digit keys (or of an exponent when pressed after the {10x} key). This key is also used to toggle between positive and negative Trigger Slope, between Single or Double Pulse, between Full or Half Duplex and between Remote Enable and Remote Disable (when the appropriate menu selection appears on the display).
{10x}	The exponent key. Digits entered after {10x} has been pressed will be exponents of ten.
{BK SPC}	Deletes the last digit entered and moves the cursor one position to the left. The backspace key is only active while data entry is taking place with the numeric keypad.
{ENTER}	Terminates data entry from the numeric keypad. When used for entering Delay and Width parameters, ENTER leaves the current timing cycle unaffected, but prevents the keyboard from responding to new input until the timing cycle has completed. This key is also used to manually trigger the instrument under Single Cycle operation.
{EXEC}	Terminates data entry from the numeric keypad. When used for entering Delay and Width parameters, EXEC turns off pulses for the remainder of the current timing cycle. This key is also used to manually trigger the instrument under Single Cycle operation.

REMOTE PROGRAMMING

Remote programming can be accomplished via either the RS-232 serial interface or the IEEE-488 GPIB. The command sets for the two buses are identical. Commands sent to the 6040 are case sensitive. Multiple commands, which must be separated by blanks or commas, may be sent in a single transfer. The command string, including blanks, cannot exceed 255 characters. Strings, or single commands, must be terminated with a carriage return. Extra blank spaces are ignored. Error messages, sent back by the 6040 in response to invalid commands or data, are listed in Table 2-4.

In all of the commands listed here, i represents an integer value, f, v, and x may be in integer, floating point, or exponential notation, and c represents an ASCII character string. Optional parameters are enclosed in curly brackets.

In general, if optional parameters are omitted then the current value of those parameters will be sent back (immediately with RS-232 or upon request with GPIB). Responses sent back from the 6040 (other than error messages) are 20 characters long and correspond to the LCD display that would appear under manual operation. They are terminated with a carriage return. With GPIB programming, EOI is asserted with the carriage return.

Command errors are reported in the Error Status Byte. The controller should verify that the Error Status Byte is zero after each command string is sent: a zero value indicates no errors have been detected.

The transfer from mainframe memory into hardware of a new parameter can be suppressed

by following the value with a semicolon. This can be used for loading an entire front panel state into mainframe memory and saving it in module memory, without disrupting the current hardware settings. As an example, the string TR IN 1E3 sets the rep rate generator to 1.000 kHz, whereas the string TR IN 1E3; does not affect the current setting of the repetition rate.

INITIAL BUS PARAMETER SELECTION

The {GPIB/RS-232} menu key has a number of items that affect the GPIB and RS-232 operation.

The Remote Enable/Disable setting determines whether full remote control is allowed. To allow remote control, select Remote Enable. To prevent remote control, select Remote Disable. In both cases, the instrument can be queried for parameter settings and the Mode setting.

Specific to the RS-232 are the Baud Rate and the Full/Half Duplex setting. These can be set according to the user's needs. Note that Cntrl-Z (ASCII 26) must be received by the 6040 to enable RS-232 operation. Cntrl-C (ASCII 3) disables RS-232 operation.

For GPIB operation, the IEEE-488 Addess (listen/talk) should be set to a unique address so that no bus conflicts arise.

COMMAND SET

The commands are grouped into four sets: status, panel control, display, and supplemental control commands. The panel control commands have counterparts in the keypad commands used during front panel programming. The other commands are unique to remote operation.

Status Commands

The status commands are used to query the status of command transactions, and the state of the mainframe and plug-in module.

ES	Error Status. This returns a single byte that flags any errors that have occurred since the previous ES command. All bits are set to zero following this instruction. The bit definitions are as follows.
	Error Status Byte: Bit Description 7 Always zero 6 Always zero 5 Always zero 4 Always zero 3 Always zero 2 Always zero 1 Overrange 0 Unrecognized command Bits 2-7: These bits are always zero and are reserved for future use. Bit 1: This is set if a parameter was set to a value outside its allowable boundary. For example, if the command TR IN -5 is sent (set internal rep-rate generator for -5 Hz), the value would be discarded and bit 1 would be set. Bit 0: This bit is set if the command is unrecognized.
IS	Instrument Status. This returns the instrument status byte. Instrument Status Byte: Bit Description 7 Always zero 6 Always zero 5 Always zero 4 Always zero 3 External Trigger has been recognized 2 Overlap 1 PLL out of lock 0 Timing cycle in progress Bits 4-7: These bits are always zero and are reserved for future use. Bit 3: This bit is set if a trigger has occurred that generated a timing cycle. Bit 2: This bit is set if a trigger has occurred and no timing cycle has been generated. Bit 1: This bit is set if the PLL for the internal rep rate generator is unlocked. Bit 0: This bit is set if a timing cycle is in progress.
PS	Module Status. This returns the module status byte, which is module dependent. For definitions, refer to the module's manual.

Panel Control Comands (PCCs)

In the Front Panel Programming description, there are a group of keys denoted as menu keys. They have associated with them a sequence of menu items that allow the user to select a particular Mode or state of operation or to modify a specific parameter. The panel control commands (PCCs) are set up in a similar fashion, except that sequencing is replaced by a second PCC that selects the specific menu item.

Each front panel menu key has a corresponding PCC. These are the primary PCCs. Each of these primary PCCs is used in conjunction with a set of secondary PCCs to select a specific sequenced menu item. There are roughly the same number of secondary PCCs for a given primary PCC as there are menu items associated with a similar menu key. This allows the direct selection of Mode, operating state or parameter via a two instruction command string. Finally, if a parameter is associated with the primary-secondary PCC command string, the desired value can be appended to the command string, or, if no value is appended, the present value of the parameter can be read back by the controller.

The general format for a command string is:

primary PCC {secondary PCC {value x}}

where x is either an integer or floating point value.

There are four primary PCCs, equivalent to the menu keys MODE, TRIG, TIMING, and LEVEL. These are described in the following. The GPIB/RS-232 key cannot be controlled remotely.

MO {PCC}	Mode Control, where the secondary PCC is one of the following: PL   Pulse IM   Impulse CW   CW EM   External Modulation If the secondary PCC is omitted, the current Mode setting will be returned. For example, sending the string MO PL would set the operating mode to Pulse operation. If the string MO were subsequently sent, the 20 character string "Mode: Pulse" would be returned.
TR PCC {x}	Trigger Control, where the secondary PCC is one of the following: ED {v}   External Drive {threshold set for v volts} EP   External Trigger Slope, positive EN   External Trigger Slope, negative ET {v}   External Trigger {threshold set for v volts} IN {f}   Internal Trigger {rep rate set to f Hertz} SC   Single Cycle If the value {x} is omitted, the current value is returned. If the string TR IN 1E3 were sent, the internal rep-rate generator would be set for a frequency of 1.000 kHz. A subsequent string TR IN would cause the return of the 20 character string "Trg Int: 1,000 kHz." Once Single Cycle operation has been selected, the 6040 can be triggered with the EX command (see the Supplemental Control Commands section).
TI PCC {x}	Timing Control, where the secondary PCC is one of the following: DL {t}   Delay {set for t seconds} WD {t}   Width {set for t seconds} SP   Single Pulse DP   Double Pulse Width and Delay commands terminate the current timing cycle when received by the 6040 (just as the EXEC key does under manual operation). If the value {x} is omitted, the current value is returned. If the string TI WD 1.23E-3 were sent, the delay would be set for 1.2300 ms. A subsequent string TI DL would cause the return of the 20 character string "Width 1.2300 ms."
LV PCC {x}	Level Control, where the secondary PCC is one of the following: AV {x}   CW level {set for x units} BL {x}   Baseline level {set for x units} EM {x}   External Modulation level {set for x units} PK {x}   Peak level {set for x units} If the value {x} is omitted, the current value is returned. If the string LV PK 1.23E-3 were sent, the peak level would be set to 1.23 mW (for an optical module). A subsequent string LV PK would cause the return of the 20 character string "Lv Peak: 1.23 mW." The unit used is dependent on the module.

There are no secondary PCCs used with the memory commands. The format is simple: the memory PCC followed by a single integer.

The following commands control the function keys (reserved for future use).

The last four PCCs operate identically to the four scan keys ( {}, {}, {}, {} ). When followed by an integer i the commands are equivalent to pressing the corresponding scan key i times.

Display Commands

The display commands allow the user to control the LCD readout from the GPIB/RS-232 bus. They have no other effect on the operation of the 6040.

Supplemental Control Commands

These commands provide additional methods for controlling the instrument. They do not directly correspond to the keys on the 6040 front panel.

CL	Clear Instrument. This command recalls the settings in module memory zero if a module is installed (equivalent to RE O). With no module installed, the mainframe is set for Single Cycle triggering (and no other parameters are changed).
;	The semicolon is used to suppress the loading of parameters into hardware. When added to the end of a panel control command, that command is temporarily stored in mainframe memory (not to be confused with the module memory accessed by STORE and RECALL), but not put into effect. The command can be activated later in a number of ways. It can be activated by immediately following it with an EX command or by querying that menu item some time later and then immediately following that with EX. For example, either the sequence TR IN 1234; EX or TR IN 1234;...[other commands]...TR IN EX will put 1.234 kHz Internal Triggering into effect. Additionally, a complete set of instrument parameter can be held in mainframe memory using ; repeatedly. These could be activated in hardware as a group with the RL> command or they could be stored in module memory (using the ST i command) and recalled as a group when needed (using RE i).
EX	Execute. This command activates parameters into hardware and initiates Single Cycle triggers. Under Single Cycle operation, EX triggers the instrument, causing the pulse of specified Width and Delay to be produced. If the most recent command received by the 6040 was a parameter query (a panel control command with the argument omitted) or a command terminated by a semicolon (to load into temporary memory but not activate a parameter), then EX activates the menu parameter just queried about or the parameter just loaded into memory. (In this case, if the instrument is in Single Cycle operation, a trigger is not produced.) For example, both the command sequences TR IN EX and TR IN 2E3; EX select Internal Trigger operation. The second also changes the rep rate to 2 kHz.
RL	Reload. The RL command loads the complete set of instrument parameters from temporary mainframe memory into hardware (see ;).

SECTION 3

Figure 3-1 shows a simplified block diagram of the timing circuits. There are four main functional groupings: Rep-Rate Generator, External Trigger Circuit, Delay Circuit and Width Circuit. A high speed multiplexer selects either the output of the External Trigger Circuit or one of the frequencies available from the Rep Rate Generator. The selected signal generates a TRIG OUT pulse and triggers the Delay Circuit which in turn triggers the Width Circuit. The result is an output pulse whose delay and width are digitally programmable with 1 ns resolution. The entire signal path from either circuits involves approximately 20 IC gates. Excellent time coherence (~25 ps rms) is advanced through careful layout and the use of high speed ECL devices.

The top rows of blocks represent a frequency synthesizer employing a phase locked loop (PLL) to insure that crystal accuracy is maintained for all rep rates. The dashes (blocks) indicate CMOS counters that are located on the Microprocessor board. By programming the 16-bit divider in the PLL feedback path as well as the 4-bit and two 16-bit dividers outside the loop, all of the required frequencies are obtained.

When the External Trigger Circuit is used, the multiplexer selects the line from the fast comparator. The x2 attenuator at the input provides a wideband low VSWR termination for the external triggers. An 8-bit DAC plus a polarity bit provides 0.2% resolution (20 mV/step) for the trigger threshold level. When solid triggering occurs, an LED indicator lights.

The two remaining circuits (Delay and Width) are essentially identical. An input pulse starts a 100 MHz oscillator running. The 4-bit (ö16) counter begins to count the oscillator pulses. When the programmed Width is reached, the trailing edge of the (previously started) output pulse returns to ground and the entire cycle can be repeated almost immediately. DRIVE, an ECL version of the PULSE OUT output is sent to the plug-in module.

SOFTWARE AND MICROPROCESSOR

The Model 6040 is based on the Intel 80C31 family of microprocessors (see Figure 3-2). This microprocessor, optimized for imbedded controller applications such as the BNC 6040, is very efficient at bit control, has a built-in serial I/O and baud rate control, and supports a six-level interrupt system.

Programs developed for the 6040 are written in the C language using a cross-assembler. Some low level routines are coded in assembly for speed and efficiency.

The software has a timer interrupt for the keypad interface, as well as interrupt driven GPIB and RS-232 routines. The timer interrupt occurs at intervals of 50 ms. This allows optimal keypad detection while minimizing interruptions of other software tasks.

Figure 3-1. 6040 Timing Circuits



Figure 3-2. Microprocessor Block Diagram

When power is first applied the software determines if a plug-in module is present and configures the front panel user interface as necessary. This includes enabling or disabling the selection of certain parameters, Modes, and Timing states, and the limiting of parameters to boundaries as specified by the module.

The microprocessor has 64K bytes of code memory, and a separate 64K bytes of data memory. Code is accessed when the CODE SELECT line (PSEN) is asserted. In the 6040, the hardware control is realized by "memory mapping" the interface ICs into the data memory space.

The microprocessor has 8K bytes of RAM which is used for temporary values and the stack.

The module is mapped into 8K bytes of memory. There is a special bus interface designed to minimize bus induced noise in the module.

The CMOS timers are mapped into a 2K byte segment of memory. There are a total of four LSI counters, each having three 16-bit timers, for a total of 12 timers. These are used to augment the range of the ECL circuitry, and interface via the 20-pin connector, J9.

The ECL I/O is mapped into a 512-byte segment of memory. This allows 32 bits to control circuitry, and four bits to monitor the timing hardware. These interface to the timing board via the 40-pin connector, J6.

The front panel control is mapped into a 256-byte segment. This controls the LCD, scans the keypads (at 50 ms intervals), and drives the LED annunciators.

The GPIB controller is also mapped into a 256-byte segment. This notifies (interrupts) the processor when the 6040 has been addressed (as set by the GPIB key parameter, 488 Add) via the GPIB.

The RS-232 takes advantage of he 80C31's internal serial port. The processor's circuitry interrupts the processor when the RS-232 port is active.

This diagram depicts the signal flow between circuit boards in the 6040, as well as inputs and outputs to and from the front panel, rear panel and plug-in module. The printed circuit boards are shown with their assigned number, such as PCB 6040-1 for the Power Supply Board. The schematic number for each board is also shown.

TIMING BOARD (Schematic 6040-32)

Rep-Rate Generator and External Trigger Circuit (Schematic 6040-32, Sheet 1)

The rep-rate generator schematic consists of Z1, Z2 and Z5. Z8 buffers the signal from Z5 and drives Z14 (a binary divider) and Z15 (a multiplexer). The external trigger circuit also supplies a signal to the multiplexer.

The external trigger circuit consists of Z4, Z7, Z13, Z22 and Q3. Z4 (a DAC) is supplied data from the microprocessor board and with the aid of Z7 sets the input trigger level. Q3 when

Figure 3-3. Simplified Interconnection Diagram

activated inverts the level polarity. Z13 is a high speed comparator and is used as the input sensing device. Three sections of Z22 are used to select the slope of the incoming signal.

The fourth section of Z22 is used to detect the presence of a successful input trigger, lengthen the pulse (if necessary) and flash the trigger indicator.

Z8-3 is used to lock out a signal from Z15 and thus prevent triggering of the 6040 when required. The upper portion of Z23 is used to shorten (typically 3 ns) any pulse on its clock input for timing purposes. Z30-4 is used to stretch the pulse for use by the CMOS circuits on the microprocessor board.

Delay Circuit. (Schematic 6040-32, Sheet 2)

The delay trigger from sheet 1 starts the delay cycle when Z25 is enabled. Z25 pin 10 is the trigger input, and pin 11 is a disable from the CMOS circuitry that prevents additional triggers while the CMOS circuitry is being loaded with data. The input on pin 9 performs a similar function until coincidence is reached (the end of the delay cycle).

Z16-15 is a delay line oscillator that runs at 100 MHz and is enabled by Z18-14. When Z18-12 is set by Z25 the oscillator is enabled and supplies clock pulses to Z18-11 and Z6 (a binary counter) until both CMOS and ECL coincidence are present at the same time. When this condition is met there is one more clock pulse which loads the counter, returns Z18 to its original state and disables the oscillator.

Z25-7 is used to provide two signals: one to the TRIG OUT amplifier and the other to the width circuit at the beginning of delay in the Double Pulse mode only. The Z18-14 output in addition to controlling the oscillator, also provides a signal to the 1 ns delay circuit (Z9 and Z17). Z17 determines the 0 to 1 ns increments.

Z9 determines the 2,4,6 or 8 ns delay as selected by Z10. The output of Z10 is buffered and inverted by Z17-15 and the trailing edge of the delay pulse is detected by Z18-6 which then generates a short pulse ( 3 ns typical). This pulse is the trigger for the width circuit. Z27 is used to detect the presence of a trigger during a cycle and fire the overlap indicator via the microprocessor board.

Width Circuit (Schematic 6040-32, Sheet 3)

The width trigger is inverted by Z26 (when enabled) and sets Z28 starting the width timing cycle Z26-10 disables the gate when data is being loaded into the CMOS circuits. Z26-11 disables the gate when a trigger signal sets Z28 and prevents the acceptance of any additional triggers until the width timing cycle is completed.

When set by the trigger the Z28-3 output enables the 100 MHz delay line oscillator (Z31-15). The output of Z31 drives both Z28 and Z32 (a binary counter) with clock pulses. The carry output of Z32 supplies the CMOS circuits with clock pulses via Z29-2 and Z11-13. Z32 continues to count until both CMOS and ECL coincidence is reached. The next clock pulse returns Z28 to its original state. In addition, this extra clock pulse reloads data into Z32.

At the start of the width timing cycle Z6-15 transmits a rising edge to the clock input of Z28 via DL2. This initiates the width output. The electrical length of DL2 is equivalent to the sum of the propagation time through Z19, Z20, Z21 and Z29 when the data set in the l ns decade is zero. At the end of the width timing cycle, Z26 transmits this edge through the 1 ns circuits (Z19 and Z20), the multiplexer (Z21) and the pulse shaper (Z29-14) to Z28-12 to end the width cycle. The outputs of Z28 supply both the plug-in and the output amplifier with a width signal.

MICROPROCESSOR BOARD (Schematic 6040-33)

CPU and Interface (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 1)

Z8, is an Intel 80C31 Microprocessor. Since it has no internal program memory, all program memory is contained in an external EPROM. The output of Z11, a 10 MHz crystal oscillator (described later), is buffered by Z13C and drives Z8-19. It also drives the CMOS counter circuits.

Port 0 on Z8 is used as both a bi-directional data bus and lower bit address latch control. The bi-directional data buffer Z14, points away from the microprocessor except during a data or I/O read.

Port 0 is also connected to Z15, an 8-bit latch used for demultiplexing AD0-AD7. The lower eight bits of the address are always placed on the bus during the first portion of an external memory read or write cycle. Latching of the address bits occurs when ALE (Address Latch Enable) on Z8-30 (on its trailing edge) goes from high to low. Also during this first cycle A8-A15 are presented to an output buffer for the upper eight address lines.

External 4.7 k pull-up resistors are required on the P0 port. Note that the buffered DATA bus actually contains the both the multiplexed address and data information though only the data is recovered by other chips on the logic board. The special "quiet bus", however, re-decodes the multiplexed address/data bus. This is discussed in greater detail in the Module Interface description (sheet 9).

An internal serial port for communication to a three-wire DCE device is provided via the CMOS to RS-232C translation devices. Z3 and Z5 are the RS-232C bus driver and receiver. Note that Z3 is the only device requiring -12 V and +12 V. This is necessary to produce the proper voltage swing for the RS-232C standard. Baud rates of 300-1200 are supported, and data is fixed at eight bits, no parity.

Bus and External Memory Control Lines:

Memory is divided into two sections identified as Code and Data. Hardware I/O is mapped in the Data space.

Code (program memory as opposed to data memory) is read by the microcomputer when PSEN*, Z8-29, goes low (true). This signal, combined with A0-A15, allows 216 or 65,536 directly addressable program memory locations. Program memory is stored in Z17 (sheet 2).

Data (Read/Write memory or RAM) is read and latched by the microprocessor when RD*, Z8-17, goes from low (true) to high (false). While the microprocessor can theoretically address 65,536 data spaces, only 8192 locations (8K) are used for the RAM.

I/O (hardware used to control or sense the 6040) is also mapped into the Data space. This includes the module and timing board control circuits.

Memory and I/O Decoding (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 2)

Program Memory - ROM:

Z17, the EPROM, encompasses the full 64K code space. During a program code fetch instruction, PSEN* will cause the internal output buffer of the EPROM to be placed on the data bus. The internal output buffer is enabled when OE*, Z17-22, goes low (at the same time Z14 will momentarily point inward, permitting the data to be transferred into the microprocessor).

RAM and Memory Mapped I/O:

Z25, a decoder, divides the 64K data memory space into eight 8K sections. Y0 selects the RAM (Z24), Y6 selects the plug-in module, and Y7 selects the 8K allotted for other memory mapped hardware I/O.

Data Memory - RAM:

Read/write data memory or RAM is stored in Z24, a 6264 8K by 8 static RAM. It contains the current operating parameters and other software variables.
Timer and I/O Decoding (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 3)

Hardware I/O Data Space:

I/O control, selected by Z25-7 (sheet 2), is realized by mapping all hardware into the memory space E000 to FFFF. Selections of specific hardware within this area (such as the 82C54 timers and 82C55 parallel I/O chips) is done by Z35, another decoder.

The first four chip selects (CS0-CS3) go to the 82C54 timers, CS4 selects Z33 (front panel control), CS5 and CS6 select the ECL timing board interface, and CS7 selects the GPIB interface.

CMOS Counters:

The four 82C54 counter timer chips (Z16, Z20, Z23, Z27) each contain three 16-bit timers that can generate four independent time delays. The logic connected to the clocks, gates and outputs of these 12 timers are shown on schematic sheets 6, 7, and 10. Sheet 3 shows only the microprocessor interfacing.
Front Panel Interface (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 4)

Z33 is an 82C55 Parallel Peripheral Interface device with three programmable 8-bit input/output ports. Z33 is selected by CS4 from Z13 (on sheet 3).

Keypad Decoding:

Port A outputs the keyboard scan pattern to the two 4-bit wide columns in the keypad matrix. The four rows on the 8 x 4 keypad map are input on the lower four bits on port C. Key decoding works as follows.

Software normally sets port A to all zeroes. During the primary 50 ms operating system timer tick interrupt, the lower half of port C is tested to see if any bits are low. A bit will be low if any key is pressed because the 4.7 k row resistor is pulled low by a connection through the keypad switch.

Once a key is pressed, software selectively scans through the columns one by one testing until the unique combination of a row and column is identified.

LED and LCD Display Interface:

Port B of Z33 is connected to both the data bus of the LCD display and Z30 an octal latch and port driver for the eight LED's. Strobing of data to control the LED's is accomplished by bit 4 on Port C. Strobing of data to control the LCD is by strobing bits 5, 6, and 7 of this same port.
ECL Interface (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 5)

The microprocessor uses a pair of 82C55 Programmable Peripheral Interfaces (PPIs) to control the timing board (PCB 6040-2). The PPIs, Z19 and Z22, control the timing board via the 40-pin connector J6. Each PPI has three I/O ports which are one byte wide. All of the ports are for output control except Z22, port C's lower four bits.

Z19 controls the 1 ns and 10 ns timing decades. Port A controls the delay, while port B controls the width. Port C is used for resetting the CMOS counters and to reset the overlap detector on the timing board.

Z22 controls the trigger circuits, enables the CMOS Timing counters, and monitors the status of hardware on the Timing board. Port A has the SEL A,B, and C lines, that are used in the rep-rate generator. FRQEN, RALMT, and DBLPLS enable the trigger generator, the rate limit circuitry, and allow double pulses. TRGSL and TRGPOL determine the slope and polarity for the External Trigger circuitry. Port B sets the External Trigger threshold DAC. The lower four bits of port C allows the microprocessor to monitor when a timing cycle is in progress (DWPROG), if the PLL is out of lock (PLLK), if a timing cycle error has occurred (OVRLAP), and if an external trigger has been recognized by the discriminator (TGR'D). Port C's upper four bits is used to enable the CMOS timing count chain.

CMOS Delay Circuit (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 6)

This circuit augments the high speed ECL delay circuitry. It extends the delay from 159 ns to more than 100 s. This is done by utilizing a single LSI counter and four SSI ICs.

Z16 contains three user configurable 16-bit counters, configured as two programmable counters and a fixed prescaler. The CMOS count can be up to four bytes wide. The Z16-A counter is loaded with two least significant bytes and is clocked from the DTTLCK signal, at a frequency of 6.25 MHz (a period of 160 ns).

The Z16-B counter is loaded with the remaining two high order bytes and is clocked by the output of the prescaler, Z16-C. The prescaler divides the 6.25 MHz DTTLCK signal by 65536 (2 to the 16) producing a frequency of 95.367 Hz.

The presettable counters, Z16-A and Z16-B, are enabled by the signals, DCNT24 and DCNT220, respectively. These come from port C of the PPI Z22. They are set by the microprocessor according to the Delay setting.

The LDCLK signal is used when the counters are loaded with a new value. This comes from port C of the PPI, Z22.

The DHLDOFF signal is used to prevent the ECL delay circuitry from initiating a new delay cycle during the reloading of Z16 at the end of a delay cycle.

The DTTLEN signal allows the ECL circuitry to generate the DTTLCK signal.

The DTTLCOIN signal indicates that the CMOS count chain has reached 0 (counted down).

CMOS Width Circuit (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 7)

The width counter circuitry is essentially identical to the description of the delay counters.

The CMOS width circuit is similar to the delay circuit. In the width circuitry Z20 is the LSI counter, and signals that began with a 'D' begin with a 'W'.

Z20 is a 82C54 that contains three user configurable 16-bit counters. These are configured as two programmable counters, and a fixed prescaler. The CMOS count can be up to four bytes wide. The Z20-A counter is loaded with two least significant bytes and is clocked from the WTTLCK signal, at a frequency of 6.25 MHz (a period of 160 ns).

The Z20-B counter is loaded with the remaining two high order bytes and is clocked by the output of the prescaler Z20-C. The prescaler divides the 6.25 MHz WTTLCK signal by 65536 (2 16) producing a frequency of 95.367 Hz.

The presettable counters, Z20-A and Z20-B, are enabled by the signals, WCNT24 and WCNT220, respectively. These come from port C of the PPI Z22 and are set by the microprocessor according to the Width setting.

The LWCLK signal is used when the counters are loaded with a new value from port C of the PPI Z22.

The WHLWOFF signal is used to prevent the ECL width circuitry from initiating a new width cycle during the reloading of Z20 at the end of a width cycle.

The WTTLEN signal allows the ECL circuitry to generate the WTTLCK signal.

The WTTLCOIN signal indicates that the CMOS count chain has reached 0 (counted down).

GPIB Interface (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 8)

Z35's CS7 (chip select 7) enters Z4 on pin 3 and in conjunction with A0-A3 select internal registers on the TMS9914 bus controller. The RD* must be inverted to accommodate the unusual positive-true DBIN (data bus in) signal.

Z6 is used to divide the 10 MHz logic board oscillator which is output to Z4's clock input.

Z1 and Z2 are standard 75161 and 75160 interface driver chips normally used with the 9914. They go to the 26-pin connector which in turn is connected to the 24-pin GPIB connector mounted on the back of the 6040.

Module Interface (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 9)

The quiet bus, J8, is a specially designed bus to minimize interference caused by normal CPU bus noise. J8 provides the communication path to the plug-in modules. (See Table 3-1.)

The microprocessor controls the plug-in module via the 40-pin connector, J8. There are four interface control lines QRD, QWR, QALE, PLUGIN. QRD and QWR are used to control the direction of data (read from or write to the module). QALE is used for demultiplexing the QAD multiplexed data/address lines. PLUGIN enables the module data transaction.

The data/address bus consists of five address lines and eight multiplexed data/address lines. This allows an access of 8K bytes of memory or I/O in the module.

The power for the module is also supplied via J8, but the cable is cut and fitted with a second 16-pin DIP connector which is routed to the power supply (PCB 6040-1).

PLL and Rate Limiter (Schematic 6040-33, Sheet 10)

The 20-pin connector, J9, is used for all dynamic signals between the microprocessor board (PCB 6040-3) and the timing board (PCB 6040-2). (See Table 3-2.)

PLL Synthesizer:

The 6040's internal trigger generator is made of two subsections. The VCO, loop filters, and range selection circuits are located on the timing board (PCB 6040-2). The 82C54 CMOS dividers are located on the microprocessor board (PCB 6040-3).

The VCO is operated over the frequency range of 80 to 160 MHz. This is divided by 16 and level shifted to produce the signal PLLIN (a CMOS signal with a frequency between 5 and 10 MHz). The PLLIN feeds two counters, Z23-A and Z23-B. Z23-A generates the PLLVAR signal. Z23-B produces the FTTL1 signal and also clocks Z23-C, which generates the FTTL2 signal. The counter Z27-A, is clocked from the 10 MHz crystal oscillator, and produces the PLLREF signal, a fixed frequency of 500 Hz. This is used by the PLL for the reference frequency, and the PLL adjusts the VCO to force the PLLVAR signal to the same frequency.

Rate Limit:

Z27-B is used to prevent external triggering above certain frequencies. The counter is triggered by the signal RTLMTTR, and triggers are ignored until the output RLMTHD returns low. This is used with certain plug-in modules that have upper frequency limits below 100 MHz.

Loading ECL Count Chain:

The signals ELDEN and ELDCLK are used to enable and load new data into the ECL Timing counters, Z6 and Z28, (PCB 6040-3, schematic 6040-32, sheets 2 and 3).

CMOS to ECL Timing Interface signals:

Please refer to the CMOS Width and Delay Circuits for a description of these signals.

Table 3-3. Mainframe Memory Map

POWER SUPPLY BOARD (Schematic 6040-34)

There are four regulated voltages generated by the power supply: ±:12 V, +5.0 V and -5.2 V. In addition there are three unregulated dc voltages: ±:18 V and +3 V. These last three are labeled + UNREG, -UNREG and TEH (used for a thermoelectric heater-cooler).

The operation of the ±:12 and +5 V supplies is identical. These are straightforward IC regulators with internal references. An external voltage divider (such as R5, R6 and R4 in the +5 V supply) permits setting the voltages precisely.

The -12 V and -5.2 V supplies are implemented with an op-amp and a power FET. Their operation is identical except for small details in the reference and voltage sensing, networks. The -5.2 V circuit will be decribed first.

A sample equal to 50% of the output voltage is applied to Z2-2 by R7 and R11. A reference voltage of 2.6 V relative to the output is applied to Z2-3. The polarities are such that the voltage across R11 is forced to be 2.6 V relative to the output. This requires the output itself to -5.2 V. Q2 senses the current in R10 and provides overcurrent protection

The -12 V supply operates in a similar manner to the -5.2 V supply. In this case, the entire zener voltage of CR16 (approximately 6.2 volt, relative to the output) is applied to Z1-3. R1 permits adjustment of the sensing voltage divider so that an output of -12 V is obtained.

The transformer primary can be configured for either 117 V ac or 234 V ac operation via S901. S903 is a thermal cutout that opens if the air temperature entering the unit exceeds 50o C.

SECTION 4

It is recommended that calibration of the 6040 mainframe be verified every 12 months. The instrument should be allowed to warm up for 30 minutes before beginning the calibration procedure.

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

HP Model 5370 Time Interval Counter (referred to in the text as TIC) or equivalent.

Tektronix Model 485 Oscilloscope (l ns rise time) or equivalent.

Low capacity, high bandwidth probe (Tektronix Model 6l60A).

Two high quality 50-ohm coaxial cables approximately 3 feet to 4 feet in length and terminated in BNC connectors on each end.

3-1/2 digit (or better) DVM.

Variable dc voltage source capable of ±:3 V into 50 ohms.

PROCEDURE

NOTE: This calibration should be carried out in the order presented.

Power Supply

The first step in calibrating the instrument is to check each of the power supply voltages to insure correct setting and minimal ripple. Set the +5 V and -5.2 V supplied to within 0.05 V and the ±:12 V supplied to within 0.1 V. The 120 Hz ripple should not exceed 5 mV p-p. There are test points and adjustment potentiometers on the power supply board and each one is labeled with the appropriate voltage. The test points are located in front of the fan.

LCD Contrast

If no characters appear on the LCD display or the contrast is poor, adjust potentiometer R5 on the Microprocessor board (PCB 6040-3). R5 is located near the key switch, under the ribbon cable for the LED annunciator board.

Rep Rate Check

Remove any plug-in module. Connect the TRIG OUT to channel B of the Time Interval Counter (TIC). Select the Internal Trigger parameter with the {TRIG} key. Set the rep rate for

5.000 MHz. Now set the rep rate for 4.999 MHz and check that the frequency is between 4.9990 and 4.9992 MHz.

External Trigger Circuit

The external trigger circuit requires calibration of the DAC (Z4) and its associated amplifier (Z7).

Refer to Schematic 6040-32. The first step measures the attenuation factor (approximately x 2) of the trigger input termination network R78, 79, 80 and 81. Apply approximately 1.9 V dc to the TRIG IN connector and record both this voltage (Vin) and the voltage at Z13-3 (Vs). Calculate Vin/2Vs = A. Record A (typically 0.97-1.03). Disconnect the dc voltage from the instrument.

The next step calibrates the DAC including the actual value of A. With the front panel pushbuttons, set the external trigger level to +2.5 V. Calculate 1.35 x A = B and record (typically B = 1.35 V). With R4, set the voltage at Z7-7 to equal B. Change the display to -2.5 V and with R7 set Z7-7 to B. This completes the calibration of the external trigger circuit.

Pulse Out Amplifier

As the performance of this unit is in part dependent on the correct adjustment of the PULSE OUT amplifier this should be performed next, as follows.

Set the 6040 to generate pulses at approximately 1 MHz in the Single Pulse setting. Set the Width to 100 ns. Connect a 50-ohm cable between TRIG OUT and the scope EXT TRIG input and also from PULSE OUT to the scope vertical input. Check to be sure that the 50-ohm input impedance (not l Meg) is used.

1. Set R17 and R23 at midrange.

2. Observe PULSE OUT and set R17 for minimal ringing and edge distortions.

3. Set R23 for an amplitude of 5 V ±:0.2 V.
Delay Oscillator

Connect the TIC (HP 5370) as follows: Start input to TRIG OUT and Stop input to PULSE OUT (both inputs terminated in 50 ohms and both slopes to +). Set the TIC for "TIM" and 100 samples and adjust the trigger levels for best triggering (set attenuator to X1 for Start and X10 for Stop). Set the 6040, using the front panel controls, for internal trigger rate of 90 Hz, a delay of zero and a width of 30 ns. Press the Set Reference button of the TIC. Reset the delay to 10 ms and adjust R10 for 10 ms.
1 ns Delay

Connect the TIC as above. Set the 6040, with the front panel controls, for 30 ns width and 100 ns delay. Press the Set Reference button on the TIC. Cycle through 100 ns plus 2, 4, 6 and 8 ns delay and adjust R6 for best compromise of delays. Next cycle through 100 ns plus 2 versus 3 ns, 100 ns plus 4 versus 5 ns, and 100 ns plus 6 versus 7 ns and adjust C1 for the best 1 ns change compromise.
Width Oscillator

Connect the TIC as follows: Start input to TRIG OUT and Stop input to PULSE OUT (both inputs terminated in 50 ohms, the Start slope to + and the Stop slope to -). Set the TIM for 100 samples and adjust trigger levels for best triggering (set attenuation to X1 for Start and X10 for Stop). Set the 6040, with front panel controls, for a delay of zero and a width of 30 ns. Press the Set Reference button and reset the width to 10 ms. Adjust R25 for a 10 ms reading on the TIC.
1 ns Width

Connect the TIC as in the Width Oscillator procedure. Set the 6040, with front panel controls, for zero delay and 100 ns width. Press the Set Reference button. Cycle through 100 ns plus 2, 4, 6 and 8 ns widths and adjust R11 for the best compromise of delays. Next cycle through 100 ns plus 2 versus 3 ns, 100 ns plus 4 versus 5 ns, and 100 ns plus 6 versus 7 ns and adjust C2 for the best 1 ns change compromise.
10 ns Width

Connect the scope to PULSE OUT and trigger the scope with the TRIG OUT of the 6040. Set the delay and width to zero, using the front panel controls. Adjust C3 for a half amplitude pulse. Reset the width to 10 ns and readjust C3, if necessary, to obtain a 10 ns pulse width.