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Front Panel Display and Softkeys Modify / Enter Area Mode / Parameter Area Use the KNOB to select a Use the CURSOR keys to move mode or modify parameters the entry focus to a mode, Entry Focus and formats parameter format, or Press ENTER or a UNIT key to parameter value confirm parameter changes...
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Quick Start Guide HP 81101A 50 MHz Pulse Generator HP Part No. 81101-91010 Printed in Germany September 1998 Edition 1.0, E0998...
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Notice Limitation of Warranty The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the Buyer, Buyer-supplied software or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental specifications for the product, or improper site preparation or maintenance.
HP 81101A Pulse Generator. Chapter 1 “Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator” on page 15 gives a general overview of the HP 81101A, its features, the user interface, and the steps required for operating the instrument.
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About this Book Conventions Used in this Book This book uses certain conventions to indicate elements of the HP 81101A’s user interface. The following table shows some examples: Press the MODE/TRG softkey to access the Mode/ Softkeys Trigger screen. Press the MORE key to switch to the alternative Hardkeys softkey layout.
Safety Information Safety Information Safety This is a Safety Class 1 instrument (provided with terminal for protective earthing). Before applying power, verify that the correct safety precautions are taken (see the following warnings). In addition, note the external markings on the instrument that are described under Safety Symbols.
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Safety Information Capacitors inside the instrument may retain a charge even if the instrument is disconnected from its source of supply. Safety Symbols Instruction Manual symbol: The instrument is marked with this symbol when it is necessary for you to refer to the instruction manual in order to protect against damage to the instrument.
About this Book ................. 6 Safety Information ..............8 Chapter 1 Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator What you can do with the HP 81101A ........16 The Front Panel ............... 18 Operating the HP 81101A ............20 Switching On the Instrument .............. 20 The Basic Screens .................
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HP 81101A. The main features and use models are described in “What you can do with the HP 81101A” on page Operating the instrument via the front panel user interface is described in “The Front Panel” on page 18 “Operating the HP 81101A”...
Complete signal setups can be stored locally (9 internal non-volatile registers available) or on a memory card. Benchtop Testing The HP 81101A features a graphic display showing all pulse parameters at a glance. The cursor keys and the modify knob allow fast and simple operation.
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Using this programming interface, the instrument can be easily integrated into all phases of test system development such as planning rack integration and test program generation. Programs designed for the HP 81101A are compatible with all other models of the HP 81100 family. NOTE For a command reference list, please refer to the Reference Guide, part number 81101-91011.
Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator The Front Panel The Front Panel When used for benchtop testing, the instrument is mainly operated from the front panel. Cursor Keys Rotary Knob Special Function Keys Data Entry Keys Front Panel Switch Softkeys...
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Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator The Front Panel The major inputs and outputs of the instrument are available at the front panel: • The external input (EXT INPUT) can be used to connect an external arming source (triggered or gated modes), or to perform pulse recovery (external width mode).
This section guides you through the first steps when operating the HP 81101A via the user interface. N O T E For information on operating the HP 81101A via remote control, please refer to the Reference Guide, part number 81101-91011. Switching On the Instrument After switching on the instrument the display indicates that the instrument selftest is running.
Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A The Basic Screens The major parameters for pulse generation can be set up in only two screens. The Mode/Trigger screen allows you to set the fundamental operating and trigger modes with respect to the signal required.
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Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A The Output screen allows you to specify timing and level parameters for the signal to be generated. Per 1.000µs Normal MODIFY Delay Offset +0.0mV *OFF Width 100.0ns Amplit 1.00V LeadE 5.00ns...
Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A Adjusting Parameters Adjusting parameters within a screen, requires two steps: • selecting the parameter • adjusting its value Some parameters allow different formats of their values. For example, the pulse width can be displayed and entered as an absolute value, as duty cycle (percentage of the period), or as the delay of the trailing edge.
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Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A When changing the 3 Turn the knob to select D YCLE parameter format, The selected setting is indicated by an “*”. the instrument 4 Move the cursor to the right to select the duty cycle value.
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Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A Advanced Procedures The following features can be used to make operation more comfortable. • Selecting parameters Most keys of the front panel have an additional function. The SHIFT SHIFT key provides fast access to the additional functions of the data entry keys and the special function keys.
Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Operating the HP 81101A Switching the Output On and Off When you switch the instrument on, the output is switched off to protect the device under test. The LED indicator next to the output connector indicates the output state.
Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator Help is Available Help is Available Whenever you are in doubt or the instrument signals warnings or errors, press the HELP key. Help If there are no warnings or errors pending, pressing the HELP key displays information on the currently selected parameter, the parameter help.
INP.). This input can be used if a higher frequency accuracy is required, or if you need frequency locking. • The HP-IB connector providing the interface for remote control. The following figure shows the rear panel view with the option UN2.
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2Getting Started The intention of this chapter is to give the necessary steps to set up generic signals for first-time users of the HP 81101A. This chapter provides examples for the following types of signals: • “Setting Up a Clock Signal” on page 30 •...
Getting Started Setting Up a Clock Signal Setting Up a Clock Signal Task Set up a continuous clock signal with 25 MHz frequency with PLL accuracy, a duty cycle of 50 %, 6 ns transition times, a high level of 2.5 V and low level of 0 V.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Clock Signal To set the timing parameters as required: 1 Press the OUTPUT softkey to enter the Output screen. 2 Press SHIFT + 0 (ON/OFF). This turns on the Output and activates the internal error check to detect parameter conflicts.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Clock Signal LeadEdge1 6.00 MODE/TRG OUTPUT LIMITS TRG-LEV You can modify the parameter displayed in the Modify/Enter area, and immediately check how your changes affect the signal. Use the cursor keys to switch to another parameter. 9 Press SHIFT + MORE (GRAPH) to return to the textual screen.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Clock Signal Here is the signal as displayed on an HP 54810A Infinium oscilloscope. Use the generator’s TRIGGER OUT to trigger the scope.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Clock Signal Programming If you want to include this clock signal in your HP-IB program, use the Example following command lines. The comment lines starting with a # are not required. # Reset the instrument to start from a defined, default status.
Getting Started Setting Up a Pulse Signal Setting Up a Pulse Signal Task Set up a continuous pulse signal with 50 ns period, a pulse width of 30 ns, a leading edge of 6 ns, a trailing edge of 10 ns, an amplitude of 3.3 V and an offset of 1.65 V (high level 3.3 V, low level 0.0 V).
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Getting Started Setting Up a Pulse Signal To set the timing parameters as required: 1 Press the OUTPUT softkey to enter the Output screen. 2 Switch on the output. 3 Enter a period of 50 A warning is shown, which you may ignore, because the parameter conflict will be solved in the next steps.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Pulse Signal Here is the figure as displayed on the HP 54810A Infinium oscilloscope. Use the generator’s TRIGGER OUT to trigger the scope.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Pulse Signal Programming If you want to include this pulse signal in your HP-IB program, use the Example following command lines. The comment lines starting with a # are not required. # Reset the instrument to start from a defined, default status.
Getting Started Setting Up a Burst Signal Setting Up a Burst Signal Set up a burst signal with a burst repetition of 2 µs. Each burst consists of Task two double-pulses at a period of 500 ns. The pulse width is 100 ns, the delay between the two pulses of a double-pulse is 200 ns.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Burst Signal TRIGGERED BURSTS OF MODIFY 2-Double-Pulses at Out1 2.000 Pulse-Period: internal Osc Per 2.000 µs µs Trg'd by: PLL -> MODE/TRG OUTPUT LIMITS TRG-LEV To set the timing parameters as required: 1 Press the OUTPUT softkey to enter the Output menu. 2 Switch on the Output.
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Getting Started Setting Up a Burst Signal The following figure shows the signals as displayed on the HP 54810A Infinium Oscilloscope if you connect OUTPUT to channel 1, STROBE OUT to channel 2, and use the generator’s TRIGGER OUT to...
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Getting Started Setting Up a Burst Signal Programming If you want to include this burst signal in your HP-IB program use the example following command lines. The comment lines starting with a # are not required. # Reset the instrument to start from a defined, default status.
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“Warnings and Errors” on page 72 details on the instrument’s warning and error messaging system. N O T E For general information on using the HP 81101A and information on the instrument’s hardkeys, please refer to Chapter 1 “Introducing the HP 81101A Pulse Generator”...
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen The Mode/Trigger Screen This section describes the Mode/Trigger screen, starting with an overview of the available parameter combinations, followed by detailed descriptions of each combination. Overview To access the Mode/Trigger screen, press the MODE/TRG softkey.
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Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Furthermore, you can specify the pulse and trigger sources. The following table provides a list of possible parameter combinations. The rows refer to the numbers in the figure. Trigger Mode Continuous Triggered Gated Ext.
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Continuous Pulses Mode The following figure shows typical timings for trigger mode CONTINUOUS and pulse mode PULSES. Period Period Source int Osc, int PLL or Ext Clock OUTPUT Single Pulse OUTPUT Double Pulse...
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Continuous Burst Mode The following figure shows typical timings for trigger mode CONTINUOUS and pulse mode BURST. Burst of 3 Period Period Source int Osc, int PLL or Ext Clock OUTPUT Single Pulse...
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Triggered Pulses Mode The following figure shows typical timings for trigger mode TRIGGERED and pulse mode PULSES. The pulses are triggered by the rising edge of the arming source. Trg'd by: Arming Source...
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Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen In contrast to the previous figure, this figure shows a timing diagram where the pulses are triggered by both rising and falling edges of the arming source. Trg'd by: Arming Source (Trg'd by:)
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Triggered Burst Mode The following figures show typical timings for trigger mode TRIGGERED and pulse mode BURST. The bursts are triggered by the rising edge of the arming source. For the first example, the synchronously triggerable internal oscillator is used to source the period.
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Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen • TRIGGER OUT marks each pulse period. • STROBE OUT rises at the start of the first pulse period in a burst and falls at the start of the last pulse period. For the second example, either the internal PLL or an external CLK-IN are used to source the period—both cannot be triggered synchronously.
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Gated Pulses Mode The following figures show typical timings for trigger mode GATED and pulse mode PULSES. For the first example, the synchronously triggerable internal oscillator is used to source the period. Gated by:...
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Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen For the second example, either the internal PLL or an external CLK-IN are used to source the period—both cannot be triggered synchronously. Gated by: PLL/CLK-IN NOT Synchronous to EXT INPUT DELAY = n * Period, 1 < n ≤ 2...
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen Gated Burst Mode The following figures show typical timings for trigger mode GATED and pulse mode BURST. For the first example, the synchronously triggerable internal oscillator is used to source the period. Gated by:...
Using the HP 81101A The Mode/Trigger Screen For the second example, either the internal PLL or an external CLK-IN are used to source the period—both cannot be triggered synchronously. Gated by: PLL/CLK-IN NOT Synchronous to EXT INPUT DELAY = n * Period, 1 < n ≤ 2...
All parameters can be entered in different formats. N O T E With the HP 81101A you can vary timing parameters without the risk of glitches or drop outs, which could cause measurement errors. This applies to continuous mode with timing values < 100 ms (frequency <...
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen When you press SHIFT + MORE (GRAPH) while one of the timing parameters is selected, you will see a graphical representation of the timing parameters. The currently selected parameter is displayed in the Modify/ Enter area and is indicated by dashed or bold lines in the graphical display.
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen • M The external signal is continuously measured until the instrument receives a command via HP-IB. To invoke continuous measurements again, you have to bring the instrument in local operating mode by pressing SHIFT (LOCAL) and start continuous measurement again.
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen Pulse Width Parameter Set the width of the output pulse. There are three width formats available: • W (select W IDTH IDTH The absolute pulse width measured from the start of the leading edge to the start of the trailing edge.
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen N O T E The leading and trailing edges are independently programmable within certain ranges only, see “Transition Times” in the Reference Guide. N O T E You cannot have the width format set to D...
Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen Level Parameters You can use the right part of the Output screen to view and control the pulse level parameters and to enable or disable the outputs. Per 1.000 µ s Normal MODIFY...
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen N O T E Note that in graphics mode you can only adjust the values of each parameter, not the parameter format. If you want to change the format of a parameter, for example O...
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Using the HP 81101A The Output Screen • O Select offset and amplitude format for the pulse levels. Offset is measured from 0V to the middle of the pulse amplitude. Pulse amplitude is the difference between the high and low levels of the pulse.
Using the HP 81101A The Limits Screen The Limits Screen Use the Limits screen to set up voltage and current limits for the pulse level parameters to prevent accidental damage of the device under test. To access the Limit screen, press the LIMIT softkey.
Using the HP 81101A The Trigger-Level Screen The Trigger-Level Screen Use the Trigger-Level screen to • set the triggering threshold and input impedance for the EXT INPUT connector, • set the triggering threshold and input impedance for the CLOCK/REF INP. connector, •...
Using the HP 81101A The Trigger-Level Screen • S Set the input threshold to +2.5 V. You can adjust the threshold by moving the entry focus to the value. • S Set the input threshold to –1.3 V. You can adjust the threshold by moving the entry focus to the value.
TRG-LEV MEMCARD CONFIG NOTE Note that the HP 81101A uses DOS-formatted memory cards, and that you cannot create or delete directories using the instrument. Directory Path Parameter Move the entry focus to D to change the directory on the memory...
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Using the HP 81101A The Memory Card Screen Note that when you are in a sub-directory you can return to the parent- directory by selecting “..” from the directory list. Filename Parameter Move the entry focus to the F parameter to select a file from the ILENAME current directory.
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Using the HP 81101A The Memory Card Screen • S TORE Store the current instrument setting and the instrument setting memories 1 to 9 to the memory card. Each setting is stored in a separate file with the same name but different suffixes (“.ST0” for the current setting, “ST1”...
MODE/TRG TRG-LEV MEMCARD CONFIG HP-IB Address Set the HP-IB address for the instrument in the range of 0 to 30. The default address is 10. Perform Operation Selftest and press the ENTER key. Move the entry focus to P ERFORM ELFTEST If the selftest fails, a flashing E is displayed.
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Using the HP 81101A The Configuration Screen PLL Reference Set the frequency reference source for the PLL: • I NTERNAL The internal 5 MHz reference. • CLK-IN An external reference signal at the CLOCK/REF INP. connector. You can set the expected frequency of the external reference to 5 MHz or...
Using the HP 81101A Warnings and Errors Warnings and Errors The HP 81101A has two levels of error reporting called “warnings” and “errors”. Checking for errors and warnings is always enabled, unless you switch it off via the HP-IB using the :SYSTem:CHECk command.
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Using the HP 81101A Warnings and Errors NOTE You can press SHIFT + HELP (AUTOSET) to carry out an autoset. The instrument resets all parameters, based on the current period setting, to remove all warning and error conditions. An Example of Warning and Error Reporting 1 Switch on the instrument and recall the standard settings by pressing SHIFT + STORE (RECALL) + 0.
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Using the HP 81101A Warnings and Errors 8 Increase the pulse width further to approximately 980 ns and press HELP to see the current warnings: IDTH TOO CLOSE TO PERIOD RAILING EDGE MAY CUT NEXT PULSE 9 Press HELP again to return to the W parameter.
Hewlett-Packard office. (Please request the latest performance tests from Hewlett Packard.) Keep the shipping materials for inspection by the carrier. The HP office will arrange for repair or replacement without awaiting settlement.
Initial Inspection Standard Deliverables The HP 81101A shipping container contains the following standard deliverables: 1. The HP 81101A Pulse Generator. 2. The english Quick Start Guide and a Reference Guide. 3. A power cord. 1. HP 81101A Pulse Generator 2. This Quick Start Guide and the Reference Guide 3.
Rear Panel Connectors Option UN2 All inputs and outputs are at the rear panel 1 MB SRAM Memory Card Option UFJ (HP part number 0950-3880) The following figure shows the instruments rear panel with Option UN2 installed. Handle Accessory Front Handle Kit...
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Initial Inspection Quick Start Guide Language Options French Guide Option ABF (HP part number 81101-91210) Japanese Guide Option ABJ (HP part number 81101-91510) Taiwan Chinese Guide Option AB0 (HP part number 81101-91610) Korean Guide Option AB1 (HP part number 81101-91710)
Power Requirements Power Requirements C A U T I O N Before applying AC line power to the instrument, ensure that the correct line fuse is installed in the fuse holder and the correct power cable is fitted. NOTE When the front panel switch is off, the instrument is in “standby” mode. The instrument is disconnected from the AC line power only by disconnecting the power cord.
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2 Unscrew the fuse cap at the rear of the instrument beside the power- inlet socket. Fuse Holder and Fuse Cap 3 Replace the fuse with the equivalent part: Line Voltage Fuse Type HP Part Number 100–240 V~ T 10A, 250 V 2110-0720 4 Refit the fuse cap.
Power Cable Power Cable In accordance with international safety standards, this instrument is equipped with a three-wire power cable. The figure below shows the part numbers of the power cables available. When connected to an appropriate AC power receptacle, this cable grounds the instrument cabinet.
If a fan is broken or prevented from operating by a blockage, the temperature will increase. When the temperature exceeds approximately 80°C the overheating detection switches off the instrument for safety reasons. For reliability it is recommended to send instruments with broken or defective fans immediately to HP Service for repair.
There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. The battery must be replaced with the same or equivalent battery type: A Lithium CR2477-N type battery. The HP replacement part number is: 1420-0557. The battery is protected against charging. CA UTI ON Do not crush, puncture, or incinerate the battery.
Battery Battery Replacement NOTE Disconnect the power cord from AC line voltage to avoid electrical shock. 1 Remove the bumper which is fitted to the front panel. 2 Remove the strips on the left and right side of the front panel. 3 Remove the front panel which is secured with two screws at each side.
Operating Environment Operating Environment –40 °C to +70 °C Storage Temperature 0 °C to 55 °C Operating Temperature 95% R.H. (at 40 °C) Humidity Altitude Up to 2000m Installation Category II Pollution Degree 2 WAR NI N G The instrument is not designed for outdoor use. Do not expose the instrument to rain or other excessive moisture.
Cleaning Recommendation Cleaning Recommendation WA RN IN G To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the instrument from mains before cleaning. Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to clean external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.
Acoustic Noise Emission Acoustic Noise Emission Acoustic Noise Emission For ambient temperatures up to 30°C, under normal operation and at the typical operator position: LpA = 52 dBA Measured in accordance with ISO 7779 / EN 27779. Geräuschemissionswerte Bei einer Umgebungstemperatur bis 30°C LpA = 52 dBA am Arbeitsplatz, normaler Betrieb.
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Handle Accessory 78 pulse signal 38 Help Information 26 Conditions, environmental 86 High Accurate Frequency 45 Configuration Screen 70 High Level Parameter 62 Connectors HP-IB front panel 18 Address 70 rear panel 28 automated testing 17 Continuous Mode connector 28 burst 47...
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Index Inspection 76 Power Cable 82 Installation 76 Power Consumption 80 Power Cord 77 Power Requirements 80 Knob 18 Power Source 80 Product Features 16 Pulse Capabilities 16 Language Options 79 Pulse Delay Parameter 58 Leading Edge Parameter 59 Pulse Period Level Parameters 61 parameter 57 Limits...
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Index STROBE OUT connector 19 Switch, standby 80 Threshold 65 Timing Parameters 56 Timing Variations dropout free 16 glitch free 16 TRIGGER OUT connector 19 TRIGGER OUT levels 66 Triggering manual 26 sources 45 triggered burst mode 50 triggered pulses mode 48 Trigger-Level Screen 65 Unlock Front Panel 26 Use Models 16...
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Front Panel Controls DATA ENTRY CURSOR/ DIGIT MODIFY M A N nano RECALL PERIOD DELAY WIDTH micro STORE Mega AUTOSET LEAD TRAIL HIGH L O W milli HELP kilo ON | OFF SHIFT ENTER LOCAL CURSOR DATA ENTRY / Keys QUICK ACCESS Keys K N O B...