 Overview

The Keithley XLINX Up & Running System software links your PC with the Keithley Model 2700 Family of Data Acquisition instruments.  It allows you to fully utilize the Keithley Model 2700 by easily adding and configuring channels.  Some features and operations documented here are only applicable to a specific model in the Keithley Model 2700 Family.  These items will be marked with an ICON representing the instrument(s) the item is applicable to.

What do you want to do?

• Add a Channel	• Learn How to Use Tools and Features
• Configure a Channel	• Take a Reading
• View Screens and Dialog Boxes	• View Configuration and Setup Options


 About

The author and publisher of this documentation have used their best efforts in preparing it and all the related programs.  The author and publisher make no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, with regard to this documentation and related programs.

The author and publisher shall not be liable in the event of incidental or consequential damages in connection with, or arising out of, the furnishing, performance of use of the programs, associated instructions and/or claims of productivity gains.

All rights reserved.  This documentation may not be duplicated in any way without the expressed written consent of the author and publisher.

XUnivComm® and XUnivIeee® are registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments Inc.

Microsoft®, MS-DOS®, Windows® 95, Windows NT®, ActiveX™, Visual C++®, Visual Basic®, and the Microsoft logo are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Borland®, and Delphi® are trademarks of Borland Inc.


 Adding a Channel

The Keithley Model 2700 provides system-defined channels that provide basic functionality for the instrument.

In addition, it allows you to add three types of user-defined channels.:

Single Channel

Group of Channels  - a collection of contiguously numbered channels (e.g. 101 through 110)

Aggregate Channels  - a collection of non-contiguously numbered channels (e.g. 103, 107, 113)

Typically, you will not work with the instrument on a channel-by-channel basis, but on a group of channels.  Once you create or add the channels you want, you can configure them to fit your specific needs.  The instrument operates according to the channel type (Single, Group, Aggregate, or system defined), the channel location or slot, and the actual configuration of the channels (the selected measurement function).

To manually add channels, you must access the Add Channel dialog box

1.	To add a channel on the Add Channel dialog box, first enter a Tag Name (Required)

Note:  When entering a Tag Name, use a name that you (and others) will recognize later!

2.	Using the tabs at the top of the Relays display window, select the slot containing the relays you wish to include in your new channel definition.

3.	In the Relays area, select the desired channel(s) by clicking on the channel number(s).  Multiple relays can be selected by clicking on more than one.  If a channel is selected by mistake, simply click on it again to de-select it.  Channels that are already in use and assigned to existing definitions will be displayed as highlighted or a different color, and cannot be selected by clicking on them.  User defined channel definitions cannot cross board boundaries, and can only include standard relay channels contained on multiplexer cards.

Note:  You cannot add a channel if it is already in use.

3.	To complete the add procedure, click the Add… command button.

4.	To immediately configure the channel(s) you just added, click the Return command button.

The Channels Editor screen appears.  For more information, see Configuring a Channel

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Overview


 Configuring a Channel

Once you have added a channel, you can configure it to perform readings in a way that fits your needs.  The XLINX application provides a Channels Editor screen on which you can select from a variety of functions for each existing channel.

Click here to learn how to access the Channels Editor screen.

Click here to learn how to use the Channels Editor screen.

Selecting Startup Conditions

Configuring the XLINX Software

Reviewing a Channel Configuration

Adding a Channel

Overview


Saving a Configuration

Saving a configuration saves you time by allowing you to reuse it at a future date, for the same or another instrument.  Typically, you will save configurations in the following instances:

•	For use on another instrument

•	To reuse the next time you open the XLINX application

For instance, once you have initiated the instrument, added all required channels, configured those channels for function, range, resolution, math, filter, limits, etc., you can then save this configuration in a file on your PC.  To save a configuration, do one of the following:

•	Click the Save… command button on the Channels Editor screen

•	Click the [image] Save Configuration toolbar button

•	Click Instrument on the menu bar then select Configuration File, Save Cfg File from the displayed drop down menus

The next time you access the XLINX application, you can quickly configure the instrument in one of two ways:

•	Clicking the Load… command button on the Channels Editor screen

•	Clicking Instrument on the menu bar, then selecting Configuration File, Open Cfg File from the displayed drop down menus

The configuration will now also be associated with the new channel.

Once you save a configuration, you can have the XLINX application load it automatically after initializing the instrument.  See Selecting Startup Conditions


A Note On Configuring Multiple Channels

Within a Group or Aggregate, all channels share the same instrument setup.

For example, if the channel function is set as DCV, then all readings from any channel in the group or aggregate will also be DCV, along with any related parameters, such as Math and Limits (upper and lower boundaries).


 Screens and Dialog Boxes

Click on any of the following titles to view a topic containing the screen or dialog box along with its field descriptions:

Tree View	TEMP Function Setup	Multi Channel Graph Setup
Single Channel View Tab	FREQ Function Setup	Scan Setup
Multi Channel View Tab	PER Function Setup	Scan List
Add Channel	CONT Function Setup	Startup Conditions
Channels Editor	Totalizer Channel Function Setup	Communication Configuration
DCV Function Setup	Math Function Setup	Show Channel Configuration
ACV Function Setup	Limit Test Setup	Save Data
DCI Function Setup	Instrument Setup	Offline Data Logging
ACI Function Setup	Display Setup
RES 2 Wires Function Setup	Limits Outputs Setup
RES 4 Wires Function Setup	Single Channel Graph Setup

Back to Overview


 How to Use Screen Tools and Features

The Keithley Model 2700 XLINX software provides standard easy-to-use tools and features that help you to quickly learn and use the application.

For more information, click on any of the topics below:

  Tree View

  Toolbar

  Menu Bar

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 Using the Tree View

The Tree View uses both graphics and text to display the instrument’s cards and channels.  It provides a Right Click feature in which you select a card or channel by highlighting it, then clicking the right mouse button.  The system opens a menu next to the highlighted line from which you select an option.  The choice of options varies depending on what line you right-clicked.

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 Toolbar

Toolbar buttons provide shortcuts to a variety of actions.  When you click on a toolbar button, the system either opens a dialog box or performs a specific action.

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Overview


 Menu Bar

The menu bar contains several titles that each display drop down menus.  From these menus, you select an action by clicking the desired item.  Some of the menu bar selections have equivalent toolbar buttons.  When you make a selection from a menu, the system either opens a dialog box or performs a specific action.

To view each menu item’s related drop down menu, click on its name below:

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Overview


 Taking Readings

Once you have added and configured channels, you are ready to take readings with the instrument.

You will take readings on one of the two tabs on the XLINX software main screen: the Single Channel View tab or the Multi Channel View tab.  The main screen appears whenever you open the application and initialize the instrument.  The Single Channel View opens by default, but you can access either tab by clicking of the desired tab title.

I want to take a reading on…

A Single Channel

Multiple Channels

Overview


 Taking a Reading on a Single Channel

The Single Channel View tab allows you to take readings on a single channel with the Keithley Model 2700.  First you indicate specifics about the reading.  Next you configure the results graph and start a reading.

1.	If it is not already open, click the Single Channel View tab.

2.	In the Acquisition Control Panel area of the screen, indicate the reading type: Single, Timed, or Continuous.

3.	For Single or Timed readings, indicate the number of samples you want to read.

4.	For Timed readings only, indicate the interval between readings (Rate) in seconds.

5.	To configure a graph for the reading results, click the Cfg Graph command button.

The Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box appears.

6.	In the Tree View, select the channel you want to read.

Note:  You cannot perform a reading unless you select a channel from the Tree View.

7.	To start taking a reading from the channel, click the Start command button.

8.	To stop the reading before the selected number of samples have been read, click the Stop command button.

Note:  Typically, the instrument automatically stops taking readings once the specified number of samples has been read.  For instance, if the entry in the Samples field is 10, then the XLINX software stops reading after 10 samples.

Using the Tree View

Back to Taking Readings

Overview


 Taking Readings on Multiple Channels

The Multi Channel View tab allows you to take readings on multiple channels with the Keithley Model 2700.  The multiple channels can be any combination of single, group, or aggregate channels.  First, you must indicate which channels to scan, then setup how the instrument will acquire the readings.  Next, you setup the results graph and determine how scans will appear on the graph.

1.	Click the Multi Channel View tab.

Note:  You can only display four (4) channels at time.

2.	To indicate which channels to scan, click the Show Scan List command button

The XLINX Scan List dialog box appears.

3.	To indicate how the instrument will obtain readings, click the Scan Setup command button .

The Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box appears.

4.	To configure the graph for the reading results, click the Graph Setup command button

The Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box appears.

5.	In the Channels to Graph area, indicate how you want channels to appear on the results graph.

For example, if you want Channel 101 to appear in red on the graph, click the drop down arrow next to the red area and select 101.

Note:  The drop down list displays only those channels currently on the Scan List.  If the channel you want to graph is not displayed, repeat Step 2 above.

6.	To save the reading results data to the file you indicated on the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box, click the Save Data command button.

For more information, see Scan Setup and Save Data

7.	To start scanning the channels and taking readings, click the Start Scan command button.

8.	To stop scanning the channels before the selected number of scans is complete, click the Stop Scan command button.

Note:  Typically, the instrument automatically stops scanning once the specified number of scans have been completed.  For instance, if the entry in the Total Scans field on the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box is 10, then the XLINX software automatically stops reading after 10 scans.

Using the Tree View

Back to Taking Readings

Overview


 Tree View

Screens and Dialog Boxes

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Overview


 Add Channel Dialog Box

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 RES 2 Wires Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 RES 4 Wires Function Setup

Note:  When configuring a channel for a 4 wire function, on a board type that supports channel pairing, two channels are reserved and marked as in use.  The primary measurement channel is reserved, as well as a paired channel that is used for the sense input to the instrument.  The physical channel number of the paired (sense) channel is determined by the number of channels on the board being configured.  If the board contains ‘n’ channels, the paired channel is the primary measurement channel number, plus ‘n/2’.  For example, if configuring channel 2 on a Model 7700 multiplexer relay card, the paired channel would be on channel 12.  The Model 7700 card contains 20 relay channels, so using channel 2 as the base, the paired channel would be 2 plus 20/2=10, which yields 12.

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 ACI Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 ACV Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 Channels Editor

How to Use the Channels Editor Screen

Screens and Dialog Boxes

How to Use Screen Tools and Features

Overview


 CONT Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 DCI Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 DCV Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 FREQ Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 PER Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 Limit Test Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 Math Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


 TEMP Function Setup

Note:  When configuring a channel to use a temperature sensor that requires 4 wires, on a board type that supports channel pairing, two channels are reserved and marked as in use.  The primary measurement channel is reserved, as well as a paired channel that is used for the sense input to the instrument.  The physical channel number of the paired (sense) channel is determined by the number of channels on the board being configured.  If the board contains ‘n’ channels, the paired channel is the primary measurement channel number, plus ‘n/2’.  For example, if configuring channel 2 on a Model 7700 multiplexer relay card, to use a 4 wire RTD sensor, the paired channel would be on channel 12.  The Model 7700 card contains 20 relay channels, so using channel 2 as the base, the paired channel would be 2 plus 20/2=10, which yields 12.

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


Accessing the Add Channel Dialog Box

To access the Add Channel dialog box, you must first click the desired board/slot in the Tree View, then do one of the following:

On the Tree View, right click on the appropriate card graphic, then select Add Channel.

OR

Click the [image] (Add Channel) toolbar button.

OR

Click Card on the menu bar, then select Add Channel.

The Add Channel dialog box appears.


Accessing the Channels Editor

To access the Channels Editor dialog box, you must first click the desired channel name in the Tree View, then do one of the following:

On the tree view, right click on the Channel name, then select Configure Channels.

OR

Click the [image] (Configure Channels) toolbar button.

OR

Click Channel on the menu bar, then select Configure Channels.

The Channels Editor dialog box appears.


 Startup Conditions

Overview


Select Slot

This combo box lets you select the slot where the new channel is to be added.


Tag Name

Enter the new channel name here.  This input is mandatory on the Add Channel dialog box.


Show Help

Clicking this button opens the help topic related to the dialog box you are currently using.


Add OK

Click this button to validate your inputs and add the newly created channel to the collection of channels.  During this operation some warnings may be displayed if your selection is not correct or applicable.


Card Graphic

Represents one of the supported by the Keithley Model 2700 instrument.


Expand/Collapse Indicators

A + sign indicates the presence of defined channels on a card.  Clicking the + displays an expanded list of the channels on the card.  The system changes the + to a – sign.

A – sign indicates that all existing channels are displayed.  Clicking the – collapses or hides the list of channels.  The system changes the – to a + sign.


Instrument Graphic

Represents the entire Keithley Model 2700 instrument.


Single Channel Indicator

Represents a single, user-defined channel.


Group Channel Indicator

Represents a collection of user-defined, contiguously numbered channels.

e.g.: Channels 5 through 10


Aggregate Channel Indicator

Represents collection of user-defined, non- contiguously numbered channels.

e.g.: Channels 6, 13, 17, 20


System-Defined Channel Indicator

Represents a system-defined channel.

Note: You cannot delete a system-defined channel.


Channels within a Group

Represents the individual, contiguously numbered channels within a Group.


Channels within an Aggregate

Represents the individual, non-contiguously numbered channels within an Aggregate.


Application Menu


Instrument Menu


Card Menu


Channel Menu


Help Menu


Display Channels

This displays a list of all channels currently defined in the channels collection.  Changing the selected channel changes the display of other controls in the dialog box.


Display Tag Name

Displays the channel tag name of the item selected in the channels collection list.


Display SCPI

Displays the official SCPI channel location of the item selected in the channels collection list.


Display Board Type

Displays the board type of the selected item in the channels collection.


Display Slot

Displays the slot of the selected item in the channels collection.


Display Relay

Displays the relay(s), or Channel number, of the selected item in the channels collection.  For example, a single channel may display 4, a group may display 1 – 3, and an aggregate may display 5, 7, 9.


Display Measurement

Displays the measurement mode based on the function assigned to the selected channel.


Open Add Channel

Clicking this button opens the Add Channel dialog box where you define and add new channels to the channels collection.

Add Channel Dialog Box


Delete Channel

Click this button to remove the current user defined channel item from the channels collection.


Delete All Channels

Click this button to remove all the user-defined channels from channels collection.  After clicking this button, a warning message will ask you to confirm the operation.

Note: You cannot delete system-defined channels.


Save

Click this button to save the channels collection list and configuration to a file.


Load

Click this button to load a channels configuration from a file.


About Box

Click this button to display the Keithley Model 2700 About box.


See Slot 1

Displays an image of the board installed in the slot 1 of the Keithley Model 2700.  Clicking a LED is equivalent to selecting a channel in the channels collection list box.  Double clicking a LED opens the function dialog box used by the selected channel.  As you add channels, the LED indicator changes from white (available) to red (channel in use).


See Slot 2

Displays an image of the board installed in the slot 2 of the Keithley Model 2700.  Clicking a LED is equivalent to selecting a channel in the channels collection list box.  Double clicking a LED opens the function dialog box used by the selected channel.  As you add channels, the LED indicator changes from white (available) to red (channel in use).


Open Function Edit Box

Clicking this button opens the function edit box related to the currently selected channel.  For example, if the selected function is DCV, the DCV Function Setup dialog box appears; if TEMP is selected, the TEMP Function Setup dialog box appears, etc.

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Note:  The OTH function selects the Totalizer Channel Function Setup dialog box.


Open Math

Clicking this button opens the Math Function Setup dialog box for the currently selected channel.

Math Function Setup


Open Limits Setup

Clicking either one of these buttons opens the Limits Test Setup dialog box for the currently selected channel, with either Limits 1 or Limits 2 displayed.

Limit Test Setup


 Using the Channels Editor Screen

1.	To configure a channel on the Channels Editor, select the desired channel name in the Defined Channels area of the screen.

The Selected Channel area (in the center of the screen) automatically displays the channel data you entered on the Add Channel dialog box.

2.	In the Function area of the screen, click the appropriate function you want associated with the selected channel, group of channels, or channel aggregate.  The XLINX application reflects your function selection in the Function field of the Selected Channel area.  See A note on Configuring Multiple Channels

Note:  You may only choose ONE of the following functions: DCV, ACV, DCI, ACI, RES2, RES4, TEMP, FREQ, PER, CONT, or OTH.

Based on your function selection (DCV, RES2, FREQ, etc.) the Chan Setup command button opens a dialog box on which you make the necessary function-specific selections for the channel.

3.	To insert the channel on the scan list , click the Enabled in Scan List check box.

Configuring a Channel

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


Enable Scan

A check in this check box indicates that the channel will be added to the Scan List.


 Selecting Startup Conditions

The XLINX application requires that you initialize the instrument each time you start the application.  Alternatively, it allows you to indicate if you want the initialization process to be automatic at every startup, and whether you also want to load a specific configuration file.

1.	To access the XLINX Startup Conditions dialog box, either Application on the menu bar, then select Startup Conditions from the displayed drop down menu.

The Keithley Model 2700 XLINX Startup Conditions dialog box appears:

2.	To select a specific type of startup condition for the Keithley 2700, click the desired radio button.

3.	If you select Initialize the Keithley Model 2700, then load an existing configuration file, the Configuration File area of the dialog box and the Browse command button become active.  Click the Browse command button to select the desired file you want the application to automatically load.

4.	If you decide you do not want to save the settings, or for some other reason want to leave the Keithley Model 2700 XLINX Startup Conditions dialog box, click the Cancel command button.

The system closes the Keithley Model 2700 XLINX Startup Conditions dialog box without saving the settings.

5.	Once you have made the desired selections, click the OK command button.

The system saves the startup settings and closes the Keithley Model 2700 XLINX Startup Conditions dialog box.

Viewing Configuration and Setup Options

Configuring the XLINX Software

Saving a Configuration

Overview


Display Pair

Displays which set of boundaries apply to the selected channel.


OK

This button closes the dialog box and applies the changes to the information on the dialog box.


Cancel

This button closes the dialog box and dismisses all the changes made since the last save.


Apply

This button applies the changes made to the information on the dialog box.


Open Channels Editor

Clicking this button opens the Channels Editor dialog box.

Channels Editor


Open Display Setup

Clicking this button opens the Display Setup dialog box.

Display Setup


Power On

This combo box lets you select the setup to be automatically restored the next time the instrument is turned on.


Save Setup

Select one of four user memory locations to save channel configuration information.  Once a channel list and configuration information has been saved, it can later be recalled from the front panel of the instrument.


Recall Setup

This combo box lets you load, or recall a setup from the device’s non-volatile memory.


Time Mode

This combo box lets you select the time stamping mode used when acquiring a reading from the instrument.


Reset Time Stamp

When you select the Relative time stamping mode, this button resets the time origin of the time stamps to 0.


Sync Real Time Clock

This button synchronizes the device’s Real Time Clock to the Computer Real Time Clock.


Select Trigger

This button lets you select the trigger event used to initiate a scan operation.


Auto Zero

This check box lets you enable or disable the device’s Auto Zero feature.


Line Sync

This check box lets you enable or disable the device’s Line Synchronization feature.


Channel Auto

This check box lets you enable or disable the device’s Channel Auto configuration feature.


Apply Now

This check box lets you indicate whether you want the changes made to the control to be immediately applied to the device.


Priority

This combo box lets you select which parameter, resolution or speed, to take precedence over the other when the changes are applied to the device.  The speed and resolution are closely-related parameters.  The higher the speed, the lower the resolution, and vice versa.  If the speed parameter has priority, then the resolution parameter is adjusted automatically.  If the resolution parameter has priority, then the speed parameter is adjusted automatically.


 Display Setup

1.	To open the Display Setup dialog box, click Instrument on the menu bar, then select Display Config from the displayed drop down list.

2.	To select the desired mode, click the Mode drop down arrow and select either Normal, Message, or Off from the displayed list.

3.	If you selected Message in Step 2, type the message you want displayed in the Message field.

4.	To immediately apply the settings to the instrument, click the Apply Changes Immediately to the Device check box.

5.	To save and apply the setup, click the Apply command button.

6.	To close the dialog box, click the Close command button.

Setting Instrument Preferences

Overview


 Configuring the XLINX Software

The first time you use the Keithley Model 2700, the system automatically displays the Communication Configuration dialog box, shown below.  You must setup the communication configuration so that the software properly interfaces to the device.  This process sets up the instrument cards so that you can subsequently add and configure channels.

Note:  If you need to access the Communication Configuration dialog box after the first time, click Application on the menu bar, then select Communications Setup from the displayed drop down menu.

1.	Enter the appropriate information in each of the fields by either selecting data from the drop down list or typing the data directly in the field.

2.	To leave the Communications Configuration dialog box without saving your entries, click the Cancel command button.

3.	To keep your entries, click the OK command button.

The XLINX application saves the information, closes the Communication Configuration dialog box, and opens the main XLINX application screen.

4.	To begin using the instrument, you must initialize it.

Note: If you have set the Startup Conditions to automatically initialize the instrument, you can skip this step.

Viewing Configuration and Setup Options

Overview


 Setting Instrument Preferences

The XLINX application allows you to configure and save various instrument preferences.  You can access each of the setup dialog boxes from the Instrument menu bar drop down list.  Once you save your selections, they remain in effect until you change them.

To learn how setup and save instrument preferences, click on any of the following topics:

 Instrument Setup

 Limits Output Setup

 Display Setup

Viewing Configuration and Setup Options

Overview


 Limits Outputs Setup

1.	To open the Limits Output Setup dialog box, click Instrument on the menu bar, then select Limits Output Config from the displayed drop down list.

2.	In the Enable area, indicate whether you want Output or Pulse Mode enabled by clicking the appropriate check box.

3.	In the Output Parameters area, indicate Polarity by clicking the drop down arrow and making a selection from the displayed drop down list.

4.	Also in the Output Parameters area, enter the Pulse Duration (default is 1).

5.	To save and apply the setup, click the Apply command button.

6.	To close the dialog box, click the Close command button.

Setting Instrument Preferences

Overview


 Instrument Setup

1.	To open the Instrument Setup dialog box, click Instrument on the menu bar, then select System Config from the displayed drop down list.

2.	In the Configuration Setup Management area, indicate setups for Power On, Recall, and Save by clicking the drop down arrow and making a selection from the displayed drop down list.

3.	In the Time area, indicate the desired Time Stamp mode by clicking the drop down arrow and making a selection from the displayed drop down list.

4.	Also in the Time area, click on one or both of the following command buttons, as needed: Reset Relative Time Stamp and Synchronize RT Clock to PC RT Clock.

5.	In the Scanner area, indicate the desired Scanner Trigger Source by clicking the drop down arrow and making a selection from the displayed drop down list.

6.	In the Parameters area, indicate whether you want to enable the following options by clicking the appropriate check box: Auto Zero, Line Synchro, and, Channel Auto Configuration.

7.	To close the dialog box, click the Close command button.

The XLINX application saves your selections and closes the Instrument Setup dialog box.

Setting Instrument Preferences

Overview


Right-Click Menu Example

This example shows the menu that appears when you right-click on a user-defined channel in the Tree View.

The menu displayed depends on where you right-click on the Tree View.  For instance, if you right-click on a card graphic or the instrument graphic, you will see different menus from that shown in the above example.

Note: The right-click menus displayed from the Tree View are the same as those displayed from the menu bar.


Reviewing a Channel Configuration

The Show Channel dialog box allows you to review the configuration of a selected channel without having to access the Channels Editor screen.  It is a view-only screen; you cannot make any changes to the configuration on this dialog box.  To modify a channel configuration, you must access the Channel Editor screen.

1.	To open the Show Channel dialog box, do one of the following:

In the Tree View, right-click on a Channel name, then select Show Channel Config from the displayed menu.

OR

On the menu bar, click Channel, the select Show Channel Config from the displayed menu.

2.	To close the Show Channel dialog box, click the Close command button.


 Viewing Configuration and Setup Options

To learn how to make configuration and setup options, click on any of the following topics:

 Configuring XLINX Software 	To ensure the software and instrument communicate properly

 Selecting Startup Conditions 	To have the software automatically perform initialization and/or load a configuration file

 Setting Instrument Preferences 	To setup basic parameters on the instrument

Overview


IEEE-488 (GPIB) Setup

Board Manufacturer	Manufacturer of your GPIB host adapter: Keithley (PCI/ISA), CEC (PCI/ISA), NI ( ATGPIBNT), NI (PCI), NI (PC2A), NI (PCMCIA), Keithley PCMCIA Card or Ines PCMCIA Card.

Board Version	1 (always)

Board I/O Address	Used to change the I/O address of the GPIB host adapter.  Refer to instrument user manual.

Board IEEE-488 Address	GPIB Controller Address; default is 21.

Keithley 2700 Address	GPIB Primary Address for Model 2700 (0 – 30).  Default for Model 2700 is 16.

Timeout (mSecs)	GPIB/RS232 bus timeout.  Indicates how long to wait for a response from the instrument.


 Graph Configuration for a Single Channel Reading

The Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box appears when you click the Cfg Graph command button on the Single Channel View tab.

1.	Indicate the X-axis Settings by entering data in the appropriate fields.

2.	Indicate the Y-axis Settings by clicking the appropriate Auto Scale radio button.

3.	If you select False for the Auto Scale option, you must also indicate a minimum and maximum Y value.

4.	If you decide you do not want to save the settings, or for some other reason want to leave the Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box, click the Cancel command button.

The system closes the Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box without saving the settings and redisplays the Single Channel View tab.

5.	Once you have made the desired selections, click the OK command button.

The system saves the graph settings, closes the Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box, and redisplays the Single Channel View tab.

Taking a Reading on a Single Channel

Overview


 Graph Configuration for Multi Channel Readings

The Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box appears when you click the Graph Setup command button on the Multi Channel View tab.

1.	For the X-Axis Settings, indicate the Display Units by clicking on the appropriate radio button, then enter the number of Points of View on X-Axis.

2.	For the Y-Axis Settings, indicate whether you want the system to automatically scale the graph by clicking the Auto Scale check box.

3.	If you do not want the system to automatically scale the graph, enter the minimum and maximum Y values in the appropriate fields.

4.	To modify the display, you can turn on and off the following options in the Display Setup  area:

View a grid on the graph

Show a table below the graph containing the graph values

Overlap the Y axes

5.	If you decide you do not want to save the settings, or for some other reason want to leave the Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box, click the Cancel command button.

The system closes the Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box without saving the settings and redisplays the Multi Channel View tab.

6.	Once you have made the desired selections, click the OK command button.

The system saves the graph settings, closes the Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box, and redisplays the Multi Channel View tab.

Taking Readings on Multiple Channels

Overview


 Scan Setup

The Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box allows you to specify scan options, including timing and scanning parameters, graph and data updates, and whether to save the results in a file.

The Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box appears when you click the Scan Setup command button on the Multi Channel View tab.

1.	In the Timing Parameters area, indicate delay times by entering the desired number of seconds.

2.	Also in the Timing Parameters area, indicate the Trigger Source by making a selection from the drop down list.

3.	In the Scanning Parameters area, indicate then number of scans and whether you want Continuous Scanning performed.

4.	In the Graph/Data Update area, indicate how often you want the graph display updated.

5.	In the Data Logging area, indicate whether you want reading data saved to a specific file.

6.	If you decide you do not want to save the settings, or for some other reason want to leave the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box, click the Cancel command button.

The system closes the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box without saving the settings and redisplays the Multi Channel View tab.

7.	Once you have made the desired selections, click the OK command button.

The system saves the graph settings, closes the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box, and redisplays the Multi Channel View tab.

Taking Readings on Multiple Channels

Overview


Accessing the Scan List

To access the Scan List dialog box, do one of the following:

On the Multi Channel View tab, click the Show Scan List command button.

OR

Click [image] (Show Scan List) toolbar button.

OR

Click Instrument on the menu bar, then select Show Scan List.

The XLINX Scan List dialog box appears.


Show Table on Graph

Overlap = ON

Overlap = OFF


Overlap Y Axes

Overlap = ON

Table = OFF

Overlap = OFF

Table = OFF


Initialize

Initializes the instrument.  This button is only available if the instrument is not currently initialized.


Uninitialize

Uninitializes the instrument.  This button is only available if the instrument is currently initialized.


Reset Instrument

Resets the instrument’s settings.


Remove All User-Defined Channels

Deletes all user-defined channels shown in the Tree View.

Note: You cannot delete system-defined channels.


Open Configuration

Opens a previously-saved instrument configuration.


Save Configuration

Saves the instrument’s configuration for future use.


Add Channel

Opens the Add Channel dialog box.


Delete User-Defined Channel

Deletes the selected user-defined channel.

Note: You cannot delete system-defined channels.


Configure a Channel

Opens the Channels Editor screen where you can configure a selected channel.


Open Scan List

Opens the XLINX Scan List View dialog box.


Save Results Data

Opens the XLINX Save Data dialog box.


Open XLINX Online Help

Opens the XLINX online help file system.


Exit XLINX

Closes the XLINX application.


Assign Function to Channel

Click on any ONE function button to assign it to the selected channel.


Range

Controls the measurement range.


Resolution

Indicates the number of digits displayed for the function.


NPLC

Number of Power Line Cycles.  Based on the power line frequency, indicates the measurement speed or integration period for the measurement function.


Weight

Specifies the filter counts.  The larger the number, the more filtering performed.


Window

Defines the digital filter window.


Offset Compensation

A check mark indicates the Offset Compensated Ohms feature is enabled.  Valid only for 4 RES Function.


Bandwidth

Allows you to select a bandwidth setting that best reflects the frequency of the input signal.


Unit

Indicates the units of measurement for the selected function.


Reference

Specifies the dB reference level in volts.  It is not range-dependent.


Threshold

Expected input level.  The instrument automatically selects the most sensitive current or voltage threshold range.


Limit Test Enabled

A check mark indicates that the instrument will test for indicated  reading limits.


Boundaries

Each limit test has an upper and lower boundary.  If a reading falls outside of these boundaries, the limit test fails.


Auto Clear Limits

If a limits test fails, the reading is cleared when the instrument enters the idle state.


Limit Output Enabled

The limits test result is reflected on the rear panel connector.


Polarity

Selects the polarity of TTL level when a limits test fails.


Pulse Mode Enabled

A check mark indicates that pulse mode is enabled.


Pulse Duration

Indicates the pulse duration only when pulse mode has been selected.


Display Mode

Controls the general behavior of the front panel display.  Options: Normal, Off, Message.


Message

The message displayed on the front panel of the instrument.  Available only if Message display mode is selected.


Math Enabled

A check mark indicates the Instrument’s Math function is enabled.


Math Function

Allows you to select which Math function to use: Disabled (default), MXB, or Percent.


M and B

Allows you to adjust the math computation parameters.


Math Reference

Adjusts the reference parameters if calculations are set to Reference.


Type of Sensor

Allows you to choose from 15 different types of temperature sensors.


CJC

Defines the Reference Junction: Internal, External, or Simulated.


TEMP Unit

Indicates the temperature measurement unit for the reading: Fahrenheit, Celsius, Kelvin.


TEMP Reference

Displays the temperature of the simulated reference junction; dependant on the selected sensor type.


User RTD Options

Allows you to adjust the temperature computation variables when a sensor is used.

Default Values:

Zero Res = 100

Alpha Coeff = 0.00385

Beta Coeff = 0.111

Delta Coeff = 1.507


Totalizer Type

Indicates how the totalizer will work: Read or Read and Reset (reset count to 0 after each reading).


Count On

Selects the edge on which totalizer count is updated: Rising edge or Falling edge.


Single Channel Options

Displays the functions associated with the selected Channel.


Single Channel Graph Display

Displays the readings on the graph based on the options selected on the Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box.


Acquisition Control Panel

Type of reading - Single, Timed, or Continuous.

Samples – The number of samples to be read for single or timed readings.

Period (secs) – For timed readings, the time between readings.

Enable Logging to Disk -- This option is only available when the Continuous mode is selected.  As data is added to the graph, it will be logged to the selected file.  When checked, a dialog appears prompting the user for the location of the desired file.


Single Channel Command Buttons

Start – Starts the readings.

Stop – Stops the reading process before the indicated number of samples are read.

Save -- Opens the XLINX Save Data dialog box.

Cfg Graph – Opens the Configure Single Channel View Graph dialog box.


Total Points on X Axis

For Single and Timed readings, the total number of points on the X axis equals the indicated number of Samples in the Acquisition Control Panel area on the Single Channel View tab.

For Continuous readings, since there cannot be an infinite number of points on the X axis, you must indicate how many points you want to see at one time.


Points In View on X Axis

If the Points in View on X-Axis value is less than either the indicated number of samples for Single and Timed readings OR the Total Points On X Axis for Continuous readings, then a horizontal scroll bar appears at the bottom of the graph.  This allows you to scroll through all the data contained on the graph.


Y Axis Settings

Auto Scale – True indicates that you want the XLINX application to automatically scale the readings.

Manual – If you select False for Auto Scale, then you must enter minimum and maximum Y values.


Channels to Graph

Indicates the channels that appear on the graph.


Multi Channel Command Buttons

Start Scan – Starts scanning the selected channels.

Stop Scan – Stops the scanning process before the selected number of scans is complete.

Scan Setup – Opens the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box.

Graph Setup – Opens the Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box.

Show Scan List – Opens the XLINX Scan List View dialog box.

Save Data – Opens the XLINX Save Data dialog box.

Graph It  – Displays data on the graph for offline data logging.

Cancel  – Stops displaying data on the graph for offline data logging.


Multi Channel Graph Display

Based on the options selected on the Configure Multi Channel View Graph dialog box.


Timing Parameters

Trigger Source 	Timer (wait for the indicated time between scans)

External (wait for an external digital trigger)

Analog (wait for a certain level of signal on one of the channels

Delay Between Scans 	The time to wait between scans of a channel group or aggregate.

Delay Between Channels 	The time to wait between scanning each channel within a group or aggregate.


Number and Type of Scans

Total Scans 	The total number of scans to perform on each channel group or aggregate.  This option is not available if you select Continuous Scanning.

Continuous Scanning 	Indicates continuous scanning of the selected channel group or aggregate.


Graph-Data Update

Update on Scanning Complete 	The graph display will not be updated until all scans are complete.

Update While Scanning/ Every __ Scans 	Allows you to indicate how often the graph display will be updated.


Data Logging

This option is only available when the Update Every __ Scans value is less than the Total Scans or if the readings are taken in Continuous mode.  As data is added to the graph, it will be logged to the selected file.  Click the Browse command button to locate the desired directory for the file.


Multi Channel Graph X Axis Settings

Display Units 	Indicates which units the graph will display:

Number of Samples

Delta Time – Number of seconds between consecutive readings.  e.g. If the time between samples is 1 second, the graph units read 0, 1, 1, 1, etc.

Absolute Time – Absolute number of seconds, e.g. 0, 1, 2, 3, etc.

Time of Day – Absolute number of seconds in hh:mm:ss.ss format, e.g. 08:10:03.89, 08:10:04.20, etc.

Points in View on X-Axis 	If this value is less than either total number of scans, then a horizontal scroll bar appears at the bottom of the graph.  This allows you to scroll through all the data contained on the graph.


Display Setup Options

Allows you to modify the graph results display.

Grid On – Displays a grid on the graph

Show Table – Displays a table below the graph containing the reading values.

Overlapped Y Axes – Allows you to modify how the Y axis is displayed.


Indicating Channels to Scan

A check mark indicates the channel is on the Scan List.  To remove a channel from the Scan List, click the check box to remove the check mark.


Cell Information

If you click on a cell that contains additional information, the application displays it in the Cell Information field at the bottom of the Scan List.

For example, in the Type column, if you click on Group, the channel numbers contained in that group are displayed in the Cell Information field.  Or, if the Math function is enabled, and you click on Enabled in the Math column, the math settings for that channel appear in the Cell Information field.


 XLINX Save Data Dialog Box

The XLINX Save Data dialog box allows you to indicate in which file you want to save the data from the readings.  In addition, you have the option of sending the results to an MS Excel chart.

Click here to learn how to access the XLINX Save Data dialog box.

Taking a Reading on Multiple Channels

Overview


Accessing the XLINX Save Data Dialog Box

To access the XLINX Save Data dialog box, do one of the following:

On the Multi Channels View tab, click the Save Data command button.

This button is only available if the Update Every __ Scans value is equal to the Total Scans on the Multi Channel View Scan Setup dialog box.

OR

Click Application on the menu bar, then select Save Data.

OR

Click the [image] Save Data toolbar button.

The XLINX Save Data dialog box appears.


Initializing the Instrument

To begin using the instrument to add and configure channels, and to take readings, you must first initialize it by doing one of the following:

Click the Initialize toolbar button

OR

Click the Initialize menu bar item, then select Initialize from the drop down list.

OR

Set the Startup Conditions to automatically initialize the instrument.

Note:  For an initialization to be successful, the XLINX software must be properly configured.


 Totalizer Channel Function Setup

Screens and Dialog Boxes

Overview


Return Command Button

Closes the Add Channel dialog box and automatically opens the Channels Editor screen.


Close Command Button

Click this button to close the dialog box.


Type of Channel

Displays the channel type of the selected item in the Defined Channels list.


Filter Type

Displays the type of filter applied to the selected channel:


 XLINX Scan List

The XLINX Scan List dialog box allows you to easily see the configuration of all the channels (single, group, and aggregate) displayed in the Tree View.  This dialog box also allows you to add defined channels to, or remove defined channels from the Scan List.  When you click the Start Scan command button on the Multi Channel View tab, all check-marked channels will be scanned.

Click here to learn how to access the Scan List

1.	To include a channel on the Scan List, click the check box on the appropriate line in the Scan column.

Note: If the channel you want does not appear on the Scan List, it has not been defined or added.  See Adding a Channel.

2.	To remove a channel from the Scan List, click the check box on the appropriate line to remove the check mark.

3.	To view extended information from a cell, such as Type, click the desired cell.

The XLINX application displays more information about the cell’s contents in the Cell Information field at the bottom of the dialog box.

Note:  If a cell is grayed out then the information is not applicable to that channel.

4.	To save your selection(s) and close the Scan List, click the OK command button.

Note:  You cannot make any changes to the channels’ configuration on the Scan List.  You can only indicate whether a channel should or should not be scanned, and view information about the channels.  To make channel configuration modifications, you must access the Channels Editor screen.

Taking Readings on Multiple Channels

Overview


How to Select Channels

Single Channel	Click on the desired channel number.

Group of Channels	Press and hold the Shift key, then click on the first channel number in the group followed by the last channel number in the group.  The application indicates your selections by highlighting the first and last numbers, as well as all the channel numbers in between.

Channel Aggregate	Press and hold the Ctrl key, then click on each channel number you want in the group.  The application indicates your selections by highlighting only those channel numbers you clicked.


RS232_Setup

Comm Port	Select the RS232 serial port used to connect the instrument.

Baud Rate	Select the baud rate on the RS232 Comm Port.

Flow Control	Select the flow control method to transfer data to/from the instrument.

Timeout (mSecs)	GPIB/RS232 communication timeout.  Indicates how long to wait for a response from the instrument.


 Communication Setup

The Communication Setup dialog allows you to select the appropriate communication bus, and configure operating parameters for reliable operation.  Two communication mechanisms are supported for control and data transfer with the instrument,  IEEE488 GPIB and RS232 Serial.   Select the appropriate communications interface using the radio buttons at the top of the dialog.  The Timeout setting is used for both interfaces.

IEEE488 GPIB Operation:

To communicate with the remote instrument using the higher speed IEEE488 GPIB bus, you must have a supported GPIB host controller card installed in your PC.  In addition, you must have the proper device drivers for the GPIB board and operating system installed on the host machine.  Follow the manufacturers instructions that came with your GPIB controller card to install the low level hardware drivers.

RS232 Serial Operation:

You can use the standard serial communication port on your PC to communicate with the instrument.  This will allow you to gather data and control the instrument without a dedicated host interface card.  Make sure that the RS232 values selected in the communication setup dialog match those programmed into the instrument.  If any of the setup values does not match what is programmed into the instrument, communication will not be established and timeout errors will occur.  Use the front panel controls on the instrument to set the baud rate and flow control, before attempting to initialize the instrument from Xlinx.  Also using the front panel, save the communication setup, so the instrument will retain the settings between power cycles.

Configuring the XLINX Software

Overview


Display_Patterns
Display Patterns

This displays a list of all memory patterns currently defined in the channels collection.  Changing the selected memory pattern changes the display of other controls in the dialog box.


Slot Display Tabs

This displays the current status of all channels on the selected board.  You can view a different slot by using the Tabs at the top of the Card View.  Channels are displayed in different colors based on their current status in the system.  A legend is displayed at the top of the view defining the channel color coding used.  By clicking on a specific channel in the graphic, you can see the current configuration information associated with it.  This is an easy way to determine what group or aggregate an individual channels is part of.


Scan Channel Order

User defined channels and Memory Patterns that are enabled in the scan list will be displayed in this window.  Initially, the channel order will be the order the user created the channels in.  Hovering the mouse over a channel will automatically select it.  Once selected, the channel/pattern can be moved up or down in the list by using the arrow buttons.


Move Up In Scan Order

Move the selected channel up in the scanning order.


Move Down In Order

Move the selected channel down in the scanning order.


Close Scan Order

Close the dialog and save the current channel order.


Digital Output Configuration

Use this section to configure the Digital output pattern that will be written when this Memory Pattern is encountered in the Scan List.  Check a bit position to output a ‘1’ and uncheck it to output a ‘0’.


Analog Output Configuration

Enter the voltage to be output on the associated Analog output channel when this Memory Pattern is encountered in the Scan List.


Offline Remote Logging
 Offline Data Logging

Use this dialog box to configure the instrument and retrieve data from the instrument’s buffer.  This is useful for collecting data at a remote location, power down the instrument, and power the instrument backup at a PC for data retrieval.

Note:  Configuration data sent to the instrument will be saved in the non-volatile Setup location selected.  Scan setup information relating to delays and number of samples is not saved during power-off.  These will need to be setup manually from the front panel, before a scan is initiated.  For a detailed description of how to use offline data logging, refer to the Standalone Data Acquisition application note


Progress Bar

Display a bar indicating when data retrieval is complete.


Retrieve Data

Retrieve data from the instrument’s buffer.


Send Configuration

Send configuration data to the instrument.


 Application Note: Offline Data Logging

Standalone Data Acquisition and Data Logging With The

2700 Multimeter / Data Acquisition System

Introduction

The 2700 Multimeter / Data Acquisition System is not only suitable for use in traditional rack mount or bench top test and data acquisition applications, but also in applications requiring standalone high precision data measurement and logging capabilities.

This application note will describe the following scenario:

1) The 2700 will be configured for a specific scan sequence using an IEEE-488 interface and XLINX Startup Software.

2) Power will then be removed and the 2700 relocated to the test location.

3) The scan will then be initiated from the 2700 front panel.

4) Upon completion of the scan, the 2700 will be returned to the laboratory, and the data downloaded using the IEEE-488 interface and XLINX.

Note: The above sequence can be performed using the RS232 interface as well.

XLINX Menu Driven Instrument Configuration

The 2700 will be configured to perform a scan of twenty thermocouple devices connected to the 7700 differential multiplexer card with automatic CJC compensation.  All scan parameters will be programmed using GPIB and Keithley Instruments XLINX startup software.

First ensure that the GPIB device and 2700 address are setup properly as shown below in Figure 1.  Note that the actual settings can very from system to system.

Figure 1.

Once this is complete the 2700 can be initialized and the scan configuration initiated (See Figure 2).

Figure 2.

A graphic of the 2700 system, and installed switching hardware will now be displayed.  Place the mouse over the 7700 module and with the right mouse button select “Add Channel” (See Figure 3).

Figure 3.

The channel representation of the 7700 card is now displayed.  To select all twenty channels left mouse click in the boxes 1-20, and type a channel group tag name in the provided field (See Figure 4).  Left mouse click “Add” and then “Return”.

Figure 4.

The selected channels can now be grouped as a scan list group by clicking on the channel graphic and then left clicking in the “Enabled in Scan List” field.  The “Temp” button and then “Chan Setup” will now be selected (See Figure 5).

Figure 5.

The thermocouple type and CJC information is entered after the “Chan Setup” has been selected (See Figure 6).

Figure 6.

The channel setup can now be exited by selecting “Apply” and then “Close” button as seen on Figure 5.  The instrument settings will now be saved into non-volatile memory in the 2700 using the “Offline Logging” feature (See Figure 7).

Figure 7.

There are four, user definable setup setting available.  In this example “User Setup 0” is selected and the “Send” button selected.  Once this is complete push the “Ok” button (See Figure 8).

Figure 8.

Remote Data Acquisition

Note:  If the 2700 system is located at the point of test, and you will be initiating the scan from the PC, DO NOT exit the XLINX program until the interface cable (RS232 or IEEE-488) is removed from the 2700 system. Failure to do so will result in the 2700 system being reset.

The 2700 is now configured for the scan operation, and can be relocated to the area where the test will be performed.  It is important to note that the 2700 system does not retain reading delays, or total scan count information once power is cycled; therefore this will be entered from the front panel.

Note:  After powering up the unit in its new location, be sure to load the User Setup (1-4), that the configuration information was saved to using the Offline Data Logging dialog in XLinx.

First we will setup the inter channel delay with the following front panel key selection.  This delay is the time increment between the relay closures of each channel in the scan list, and can be adjusted to compensate for propagation delays and settling time requirements.

1) Select “Shift” “Delay”.

2) Use the range up/down arrow keys to select “Man”, and then push the “Enter” key.

3) Use the arrow keys to enter the desired delay.

4) Once complete push the “Enter” key.

Now the individual channel setup, number of scans, and scan list delay will be entered:

1) Select "Shift" "Config".

2) Use the range up/down arrow keys to select "Advanced" and push the "Enter" key.

3) The right / left arrow keys can now be used to step through, and configure, the desired scan list channels.  For example, to configure channel 101 for temperature, step through the channel list until you reach channel 101, now push the "TEMP" button.  Furthermore, to configure channel 103 for DC voltage measurement, step through the channel list until you reach channel 103, now push the "DCV" button.  If a channel is not to be included in the scan list, select the channel and press "SHIFT" "CH-OFF", and the channel will be disabled.

4) The next two fields, "Imm Scan", and "Timer" fields will be used with the default settings; therefore, push the "Enter" key at each of these fields.

5) The reading count field in now active (RDG CNT).  Use the arrow keys to select the desired number of readings (up to 55,000), and then push the "Enter" key.

Note: # Readings = (#Data points / channel) * (# Channels scanned)

The scan sequence can now be initiated by pushing the “Scan” button.  All data will now be stored in the 2700 system memory.

Data Retrieval

Once all data has been acquired, the 2700 can be relocated to the laboratory, and the data retrieved with XLINX. Once the instrument is in place reconnect the GPIB cable, apply power, and initialize communications as shown in Figure 2.

Now return to the “Offline Data Logging” screen as shown in Figure 8.  Select the correct user setup option and push the “Retrieve Data” button.  After the download is complete press the “Ok” button.

The data can now be viewed, placed in an Excel spread sheet, or saved to disk for future analysis.  These options can be seen in Figures 9 and 10.

Figure 9.

Figure 10.

Summary

The precision measurement features of the 2700 Multimeter / Data Acquisition System, coupled with the ability to scan an save up to 55,000 readings in non-volatile memory, place this unit in a class of its own.

The example above featured the XLINX Startup Software; however, the programmed functions can easily be performed using numerous other applications including Visual Basic, Visual C++, or LabVIEW.