Model: 9171B, 9172B, 9173B, 9174B,

9181B, 9182B, 9183B, 9184B, 9185B

Programmable DC Power
Supplies
USER MANUAL
Safety Summary
The following safety precautions apply to both operating and
maintenance personnel and must be observed during all phases of
operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Before applying
power, follow the installation instructions and become familiar with
the operating instructions for this instrument.

If this device is damaged or something is missing, contact the place

of purchase immediately.

This manual contains information and warnings that must be

followed to ensure safe operation as well as maintain the meter in
a safe condition.

GROUND THE INSTRUMENT

To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet
must be connected to an electrical ground. This instrument is
grounded through the ground conductor of the supplied, three-
conductor ac power cable. The power cable must be plugged into
an approved three-conductor electrical outlet. Do not alter the
ground connection. Without the protective ground connection, all
accessible conductive parts (including control knobs) can render an
electric shock. The power jack and mating plug of the power cable
must meet IEC safety standards.

DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE

Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases
or fumes. Operation of any electrical instrument in such an
environment constitutes a definite safety hazard.
KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS
Instrument covers must not be removed by operating personnel.
Component replacement and internal adjustments must be made
by qualified maintenance personnel. Disconnect the power cord
before removing the instrument covers and replacing components.
Under certain conditions, even with the power cable removed,
dangerous voltages may exist. To avoid injuries, always
disconnect power and discharge circuits before touching them.

DO NOT SERVICE OR ADJUST ALONE

Do not attempt any internal service or adjustment unless another
person, capable of rendering first aid and resuscitation, is present.

DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS OR MODIFY THE INSTRUMENT

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized
modifications to this instrument. Return the instrument to B&K
Precision for service and repair to ensure that safety features are
maintained.

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

WARNING and CAUTION statements, such as the following
examples, denote a hazard and appear throughout this manual.
Follow all instructions contained in these statements.

A WARNING statement calls attention to an operating procedure,

practice, or condition, which, if not followed correctly, could result in
injury or death to personnel.
 A CAUTION statement calls attention to an operating procedure,
practice, or condition, which, if not followed correctly, could result in
damage to or destruction of part or all of the product.

WARNING: Do not alter the ground connection. Without the protective ground
connection, all accessible conductive parts (including control
knobs) can render an electric shock. The power jack and mating
plug of the power cable meet IEC safety standards.
WARNING: To avoid electrical shock hazard, disconnect power cord before
removing covers. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

CAUTION: Before connecting the line cord to the AC mains, check the rear
panel AC line voltage indicator. Applying a line voltage other than
the indicated voltage can destroy the AC line fuses. For continued
fire protection, replace fuses only with those of the specified
voltage and current ratings.

CAUTION: This product uses components which can be damaged by electro-

static discharge (ESD). To avoid damage, be sure to follow proper
procedures for handling, storing and transporting parts and
subassemblies which contain ESD-sensitive components.
Compliance Statements
Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable
in the European
Union and other European countries with separate collection
systems)

This product is subject to

Directive 2002/96/EC of the
European
Parliament and the Council of the
European Union on waste
electrical and electronic
equipment (WEEE) , and in
jurisdictions
adopting that Directive, is marked
as being put on the market after
August 13, 2005, and should not
be disposed of as unsorted
municipal waste. Please utilize
your local WEEE collection
facilities in the disposition of this
product and otherwise observe all
applicable requirements.
CE Declaration of Conformity
The power supplies models 9171B, 9172B, 9173B, 9174B, 9181B,
9182B, 9183B, 9184B, 9185B meet the requirements of 2006/95/EC
Low Voltage Directive and 2004/108/EC Electromagnet Compatibility
Directive with the following standards.

Low Voltage Directive

- EN61010-1: 2001
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement, control, and laboratory use.
Part 1: General requirements

EMC Directive
- EN 61000-3-2: 2006
- EN 61000-3-3: 1995+A1: 2001+A2: 2005
- EN 61000-4-2: 1995+A1: 1998+A2: 2001
- EN61000-4-3: 2006+A1: 2008
- EN61000-4-4: 2004
- EN61000-4-5: 2006
- EN61000-4-6: 2007
- EN61000-4-11: 2004
- EN 61326-1: 2006
Electrical equipment for measurement, control,
and laboratory use.
Safety Symbols
Refer to the user manual for warning information to
avoid hazard or personal injury and prevent damage to
instrument.

Chassis (earth ground) symbol.

On (Power). This is the In position of the power switch

when instrument is ON.

Off (Power). This is the Out position of the power switch

when instrument is OFF.

On (Supply). This is the AC mains connect/disconnect

switch at the back of the instrument.

Off (Supply). This is the AC mains connect/disconnect

switch at the back of the instrument.
 Table of Contents
1 General Information ......................................................... 13
1.1 Product Overview .............................................................. 13
1.2 Package Contents ............................................................... 14
1.3 Front Panel Overview......................................................... 15
Front Panel Description ............................................................... 17
1.4 Rear Panel Overview .......................................................... 18
Rear Panel Description ................................................................ 20
1.5 Optional Accessories.......................................................... 21
Interface Card Options ................................................................ 21
Rack mount Options.................................................................... 21
1.6 Display Overview ............................................................... 22
Display Description ..................................................................... 22
1.7 Installing Optional Interface Cards .................................... 23
How to Install Interface Cards ..................................................... 23
Removing Interface Cards ........................................................... 25
1.8 Rackmount Installation ...................................................... 26
2 Getting Started .................................................................... 31
2.1 Input Power and Fuse Requirements ................................ 31
Input Power................................................................................. 31
Fuse Requirements ...................................................................... 31
2.2 Line Voltage Selection ........................................................ 32
2.3 Output Connections........................................................... 34
2.4 Preliminary Check .............................................................. 36
Output Check .............................................................................. 38
Check Model and Firmware Version ........................................... 40
3 Front Panel Operation ...................................................... 41
3.1 Menu Options .................................................................... 41
How to Access the Menu............................................................. 42
3.2 Remote Interface Setup ..................................................... 45
USB Interface (virtual COM) ........................................................ 45
GPIB Interface ............................................................................. 47
Ethernet (LAN) Interface ............................................................. 47
RS-232 and RS-485 Interface (Optional) ..................................... 48
3.3 Adjusting LCD Display, Key Lock, Key Sound ...................... 52
LCD Backlight Timer .................................................................... 52
Key Lock ...................................................................................... 52
Disabling Key Sound .................................................................... 53
3.4 Restore to Factory Default ................................................. 54
3.5 Configure Voltage and Current Output .............................. 56
Voltage and Current Limit Settings ............................................. 56
Configure Voltage and Current Output ....................................... 58
Slew Rate Configuration ............................................................. 64
Output Timer Function ................................................................ 66
Measurement Average Setting ................................................... 68
3.6 Dual Channel Configurations ............................................. 68
Multi/Single Output Control ....................................................... 68
Series/Parallel Tracking Mode .................................................... 69
3.7 Remote Sense .................................................................... 70
3.8 LED and Low Current Test Modes ...................................... 75
LED Mode .................................................................................... 75
Low Current Mode ...................................................................... 77
3.9 Output Protection .............................................................. 79
Configure OVP ............................................................................. 79
Configure OCP ............................................................................. 80
 3.10 Save/Recall Output Settings .............................................. 81
3.11 Sequence Program Mode .................................................. 84
3.12 External Analog Control ..................................................... 85
3.13 Digital I/O ........................................................................... 90
INPUT .......................................................................................... 92
OUTPUT ...................................................................................... 93
3.14 Display Errors ..................................................................... 94
3.15 Connecting in Series and Parallel....................................... 95
4 Remote Operation .............................................................. 97
4.1 Interface Connection ......................................................... 97
USB (Virtual COM) & RS-232 ....................................................... 97
GPIB ............................................................................................ 98
Ethernet (LAN) ............................................................................ 99
4.2 Remote Commands ......................................................... 104
Parameter Definitions ............................................................... 105
Remote Commands ................................................................... 105
4.3 Sequence Programming ................................................... 148
Examples ................................................................................... 148
4.4 Multi Unit Programming .................................................. 152
Remote Commands via USB...................................................... 153
5 Troubleshooting Guide ................................................. 165
General ..................................................................................... 165
Remote Control ......................................................................... 167
6 Specifications ................................................................... 168
7 Calibration ......................................................................... 174
Access Calibration Menu........................................................... 174
Requirements ............................................................................ 174
Current Calibration ................................................................... 175
 Voltage Calibration ................................................................... 178
External Analog Input Calibration............................................. 180
Index ........................................................................................... 185
SERVICE INFORMATION ........................................................ 186
LIMITED THREE-YEAR WARRANTY .................................. 187
1 General Information
1.1 Product Overview
The 917xB and 918xB series are high-performance dual range linear
DC power supplies that provide clean and reliable power with high
resolution and accuracy. All models are programmable via standard
USB interface or optional RS232, GPIB and LAN interface. Interface
cards and I/O cards come in a modular form factor. Selected models
feature high voltage outputs or dual channels to provide
series/parallel tracking functionality. All models include front and rear
panel outputs for flexibility, and feature programmable list mode for
storing and running customized test sequences. Additionally, a
unique LED test mode function can be enabled for LED test
applications requiring minimal inrush current output. These power
supplies are suitable for bench or rack mount operation with the
available rack mount kit option.

Features
 Single and dual output models with up to 210W output power
 High accuracy and low noise output
 Dual range output with automatic range selection (except of
high voltage models 9184B and 9185B)
 Fast transient response of < 50 μs of most models
 Very low ripple and noise
 LED test mode for low inrush current output
 Programmable list mode for creating test sequences
 Front and rear remote sense terminals for single output
models (except of high voltage models 9184B and 9185B)
 OVP, OCP, and OTP protection
 Two interchangeable interface slots accepting any of the
following optional interface cards: LAN/GPIB, Digital I/O and
Analog control, RS485, RS232
 Standard USB interface (virtual COM)
 Programmable voltage and current slew rates

13
 1.2 Package Contents
Please inspect the instrument mechanically and electrically upon
receiving it. Unpack all items from the shipping carton, and check for
any obvious signs of physical damage that may have occurred
during transportation. Report any damage to the shipping agent
immediately. Save the original packing carton for possible future
reshipment. Every power supply is shipped with the following
contents:
 917xB/918xB Power supply
 AC Power Cord
 USB Type A to Type B Cable
 Line fuse (for 115V or 230V operation)
 Certificate of Calibration
 Test Report
Verify that all items above are included in the shipping container. If
anything is missing, please contact B&K Precision.

14
1.3 Front Panel Overview
2 3 4 5 6 10 7 11 8 9 12 13

14

15

16

1 17

19 20 21 18

Figure 1 - Front Panel for 9171B/9172B/9181B

2 3 4 5 6 10 7 11 8 9 12 13

14

15

16

18

17

19

Figure 2 - Front Panel for 9173B/9174B

15
 2 3 4 5 6 10 7 11 8 9 12 13

14

15

16

18
1 17

19 20 21

Figure 3 - Front Panel for 9182B/9183B

2 3 4 5 6 10 7 11 8 9 12 13

14

15

16

18
1 17

19

Figure 4 - Front Panel for 9184B/9185B

16
Front Panel Description
1 Power ON/OFF button

2 LCD display

3 Esc / CLR button

4 Menu button

5 ISET button

6 VSET button

7 Decimal/LCL(Local) button

8 Numeric keypad

9 RCL (Recall) button

10 OVP indicator

11 OCP indicator

12 RMT (Remote mode) indicator

13 LOCK (Key lock) indicator

14 Enter button

15 Up, Down arrow keys

16 Left, Right arrow keys

17
Output button (Dual channel models have CH1 and CH2 output
buttons)
18 Output ON/OFF indicator light

19
Main output terminals (Models 9182B,9184B,9185B have larger
binding post terminals for high current/voltage outputs)
20 Front terminal shorting bars

21
Front panel +S/-S sense terminals (Not available with models
9173B, 9174B, 9184B, 9185B)
17
1.4 Rear Panel Overview
24 25 26 27

23

28
22
29

30

31

Figure 5- Rear View for 9171B/9172B/9181B

18
 25 24 25 31 26 27

28 28

29 29

30

22 23

Figure 6- Rear View for 9173B/9174B

25 24 25 31 26 27

28

29

30

22 23

Figure 7- Rear View for 9182B/9183B

19
 24 31 26 27

28

29

30

22 23

Figure 8- Rear View for 9184B/9185B

Rear Panel Description

22 S1 interface slot (shown with optional LAN/GPIB interface card)

23 S2 interface slot (shown with optional DIO/Analog interface card)

24 USB interface

25 Temperature controlled cooling fan(s)

26 AC input fuse box

27 Line input receptacle

28 Rear panel outputs (++/--) and sense (+S/-S) terminals

29 Shorting pins

30
Line voltage selection switch (bottom of power supply) See
“2.2Line Voltage Selection” for details.

20
 31 Chassis ground

1.5 Optional Accessories

The following lists all optional accessories supported by the
917xB/918xB series power supplies.

Interface Card Options

Model Description
DRGL GPIB/LAN interface card
DR1DIO Single channel digital I/O and analog control card
DR2DIO Dual channel digital I/O and analog control card
DRRS485 RS485 interface card
DRRS232 RS232 interface card

Rack mount Options

Rackmount kits are available for all 9 models. Refer to the following
to determine your power supply rack mount size.
2U size: Models 9171B, 9172B, 9181B
3U size: Models 9173B, 9174B, 9182B, 9183B, 9184B, 9185B

Model Description
DRRM2U1 Rackmount kit for single 2U power supply
Rackmount kit for two 2U power supplies mounted
DRRM2U2
side by side
DRRM3U1 Rackmount kit for single 3U power supply
Rackmount kit for two l 3U power supplies mounted
DRRM3U2
side by side

21
 1.6 Display Overview
The main displays for single and dual channel models are shown
below.

1 2 3

CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

Figure 9- Main Display

4 1 2 3

CH1CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

CH2CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

Figure 10- Dual Channel Main Display

Display Description
1 Output Mode (CV, CC, OFF)

2
Voltage display (When output is OFF, it shows VSET voltage.
When output is ON, it shows measured voltage)
3
Current display (When output is OFF, it shows ISET current.
When output is ON, it shows measured current)
22
 4 Selected channel indicators

1.7 Installing Optional Interface Cards

Five optional interface cards are available and can be installed in
either the S1 or S2 slots. They are:

Option 1: GPIB/LAN Card

Adds GPIB and LAN interface
Option2: DIO/Analog Card (Single channel)
Adds digital I/O and External Analog Control
Option 3: DIO/Analog Card (Dual channel)
Adds dual channel digital I/O and External Analog Control
Option 4: RS485 Card
Adds RS-485 interface for multi power supply control
Option 5: RS232 Card
Adds RS-232 interface

How to Install Interface Cards

1. Power off the instrument and disconnect the AC power cord
in the rear panel. Remove the back faceplate covering the
S1 or S2 slot in the rear panel by removing the two screws
on each side.

23
 S1

2. Make note of the metal notches that indicate where the card
should slide into. Inside the slot, there are two rails (left and
right side) where the card should slide smoothly into. The
very back of the slot is a 48-pin female connector that should
connect with the 48-pins on the back of the interface card.

S1

::::::::::::::::::::::
Metal
notch
Card 48-pin female connector
rail

3. The interface card should go right below the metal notches

on both sides and fit in between the inner card rails, also on
both sides. Slide the card down carefully. When it touches
the 48-pin connector, slowly push the card all the way in until
the panel of the interface card aligns with the rear panel of
the power supply.

Interface card

24
 4. Place the two screws to tighten and secure the installed card.
5. Connect the power cord and turn on the power supply. The
newly installed card will be detected during boot up, indicated
next to S1: or S2: (depending on which slot the card is
installed into).

Removing Interface Cards

1. Power off the instrument and disconnect the AC power cord
in the rear panel. Remove the two screws on each side of
the installed interface card.

S1

2. Use a flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the left and right
side of the interface card plate. When there is enough room,
use the screwdriver to pry the top part of the card until the
card has slid out with enough room to pull out the card by
hand.
3. Be sure to ground yourself before pulling out or touching any
parts of the printed board on the interface card.

25
 1.8 Rackmount Installation
There are four rackmount kit options available for this series of
power supplies: 2U size for single power supply, 2U size for two
power supplies mounted side by side, 3U size for single power
supply, 3U size for two power supplies mounted side by side. The
following step by step instructions will guide you in installing these
optional rackmount kits onto the power supply for a standard 19-inch
rack fitting.
Models 9171B, 9172B, 9181B: Follow instructions for 2U
rackmount installation.
Models 9173B, 9174B, 9182B, 9183B, 9184B, 9185B: Follow
instructions for 3U rackmount installation.

26
 1
2
Step 1:
3
Remove the parts 1 2 3 4
4
5 5
5
5 5

Step 3
7

Step 1
8

5
Step 3:

Fas ten the parts 5 7 8 9 5

5
5
7
9 5

Step 2
5
Step 4
6
5
Step 4:
5
6 Fas ten the parts
Step 2:
5
Remove the parts 5 6

Figure 11- 2U Single Supply Rackmount Installation

27
 1
2
3 Step 1:
4
Remove the parts 1 2 3 4
Step 2:
6
6
Fasten the parts 5 6
5
6
6

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

7
7

Step 4
Step 3:

Remove the parts 7

7
7

6
9 Step 5 Step 4:
6
Fasten the parts 7 8

6 6
Step 5:
9
6 6 6
Remove the parts 6 9
6
6
Step 6

Step 6: 6

Step 7 Fasten the parts 6

6
6
6

6
Step 7:

Fasten the parts

Figure 12- 2U Dual Supplies Rackmount Installation

28
 1
2
3
Step 1:

4 Rem ove th e parts 1 2 3 4

5
5
5
5

Step 3
5

Step 1
8

5
Step 3:

Fas ten the p arts 5 7 8 9 5

5
5
7
9 5

Step 4
Step 2
5
6 Step 4:
5
Fas ten th e parts

5
6
Step 2:
5
Rem ove th e parts 5 6

Figure 13- 3U Single Supply Rackmount Installation

29
 1
2
3 Step 1:

4 Remove the parts 1 2 3 4 6

6

5
6
6

Step 2:

Step 1 Fasten the parts 5 6

Step 2

Step 3

7
7
Step 4
Step 3:

Remove the parts 7

Step 5
8
6 7
Step 4: 7
9
6
Fasten the parts 7 8

Step 5: 6 6 6
9 6
Remove the parts 6 9 6 6
Step 6

Step 7 Step 6:
6

6
Fasten the parts 6
6
6

Step 7:

Fasten the parts

Figure 14–3U Dual Supplies Rackmount Installation

30
2 Getting Started
2.1 Input Power and Fuse Requirements
Input Power
The rated AC input power source for powering the supplies must be
within:

115V Operation: 103.5V-126.5V

230V Operation: 207V - 253V
Frequency: 47 Hz – 63 Hz

Before connecting to an AC outlet or external power source, be sure

that the power switch is in the OFF position and verify that the AC
power cord, including the extension line, is compatible with the rated
voltage/current and that there is sufficient circuit capacity for the
power supply. Once verified, connect the cable firmly.

WARNING:
The included AC power cord is safety certified for
this instrument operating in rated range. To change
a cable or add an extension cable, be sure that it
can meet the required power ratings for this
instrument. Any misuse with wrong or unsafe
cables will void the warranty.

Fuse Requirements
An AC input fuse is necessary when powering the instrument.
Below is a table showing the required fuses for AC line input 115V
and 230V operation for all models.

31
 Table 1- Input Fuse Table

Model 115 V AC 230 V AC

9171B 2.5 A 1.25 A
9172B 2.5 A 1.25 A
9173B 4A 2A
9174B 4A 2A
9181B 3.15 A 1.6 A
9182B 5A 2.5 A
9183B 4A 2A
9184B 4A 2A
9185B 4A 2A
Note: All fuses listed have the specifications: T250V, slow
blow (slow acting), 5 x 20mm.

2.2 Line Voltage Selection

The power supplies can be selected to operate with 115V input or
230 V input. To ensure that your instrument is properly configured to
operate at the desired AC line voltage, please follow the steps
below:

CAUTION:
For safety, no power should be applied to the
instrument while changing line voltage operation.
Disconnect all cables connected to the instrument
before proceeding.

32
Step 1 - Check and/or Change Fuse
- Locate the fuse box next to the AC input connector in the rear
panel.
- With a small flat blade screwdriver, insert into the fuse box slit to
pull and slide out the fuse box as indicated below.
- Check and replace fuse (if necessary) for the desired line
voltage operation (see Table 1).

Fuse box slit

Fuse box Check/Remove Fuse

Step 2 - Check and/or Change Line Voltage Switch

- Carefully lift and turn the instrument upside down.
- Locate the red Line Voltage Switch, which has markings that
indicate “115” for 115V or “230” for 230V line operation. Set the
switch to the desired line voltage operation.

33
 (Bottom View) Rear Panel
Rear Feet

Line Voltage Switch

Front Feet

Front Panel

WARNING:
Do not connect power to the instrument until the
line voltage selection is setup correctly. Applying
an incorrect line voltage or configuring the line
voltage selection improperly may damage the
instrument and void all warranty.

2.3 Output Connections

These power supplies have both front panel binding posts and rear
panel terminals for output connections, and they are paralleled
together. The two (+) and two (-) (per channel for dual channel
models) rear output terminals can accept wire sizes AWG 24 to
AWG 12 (See Table 2).However, we recommend using 12 AWG if
current output is between 5 to 10 A. For current output above 10 A,
remove the shorting bars from the front panel, but do not remove the
shorting pins on the rear panel. Use two separate wires/leads to
connect both (+) terminals and (-) terminals as shown below:

34
 For 10 A or higher current output
Rear Panel Output

Front Panel Output

+S + - -S +S + + - - - S

Remove shorting bars

+ -
DUT

WARNING:
DO NOT output 10 A or more with only one pair of
(+) and (-) terminals. Both (+) and (-) terminals
must all be connected for applications requiring
more than 10 A output. Each terminal can only
accept a maximum of 10 A. Exceeding this may
damage the power supply.

Table 2- Wire Gauge Rating

AWG 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Imax(A) 40 25 20 13 10 7 5 3.5 2.5 1.7
mΩ/meter 3.3 5.2 8.3 13.2 21 33.5 52.8 84.3 133.9 212.9

35
 WARNING:
Before connecting wires to the front or rear panel
output terminals, turn OFF the power supply to
avoid damage to the instrument and the device
under test (DUT). For safety, load wires must have
a wire gauge size large enough to prevent
overheating when the power supply operates at
maximum short circuit output current. It will also
prevent large voltage drops from resistances in the
wires.

2.4 Preliminary Check

Complete the following steps to verify that the power supply is ready
for use.

1. Verify Line Voltage Selection

Complete the steps as described in “2.2 Line Voltage
Selection” to make sure the supply is correctly setup to
operate with the line voltage source to be used.
2. Connect Power and Self Test
Connect AC power cord to the AC receptacle in the rear
panel and press POWER
to turn on the instrument. It will run
through a self test procedure, as well as check for installed
interface cards. The following screens will display before it’s
ready for use (Display will vary based on the model and
installed interface cards)

36
SRAM TEST ................... OK
MAIN TEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .OK

CHECKING FOR EEPROM DATA

CHECKING FOR OPTION CARD . .

S1 : GPIB/LAN CARD
S2 : RS485

B&K PRECISION
9181B
VER : 2 . 00

37
Output Check

Voltage Check
Follow the steps below to check basic voltage output with no load
connected.
1. Turn on the power supply. The display will show the OFF
annunciator next to the setting voltage on the left side of the
display.
2. Enable the output by pressing OUTPUT (or CH1 and CH2 for
dual channel models). The output indicator light will be lit
and display will show the measured output voltage. The
OFF annunciator will change to CV.
3. Using the numeric keypad, press Vset and enter a voltage
value. Then press the Enter key. For dual channel models,
select the channel first before setting the voltage. The
selected channel is indicated by a flashing CH1 or CH2
annunciator on the display. Press or to select
the channel.
4. The measured output voltage should change to a value close
to or exactly what you entered (For example, if voltage value
is 30.000 V, it may show 29.998 V).
5. (Optional) You may also verify the output voltage by
connecting either the (+) and (-) terminals on the front panel
or the rear panel to an external voltmeter. The measured
value should match or be close to the entered voltage value.

38
Current Check
Follow the steps below to check basic current output of the power
supply.
1. Turn on the power supply. The display will show the OFF
annunciator next to the setting voltage on the left side of the
display.
2. Short the (+) and (-) output terminals with test leads, shorting
bar, or clip. (Refer to Table 2 to select appropriate test
leads)
3. Enable the output by pressing OUTPUT (or CH1 and CH2 for
dual channel models). The output indicator light will be lit
and display will show the measured output voltage. The
OFF annunciator will change to CC.
4. Using the numeric keypad, press Iset and enter a current
value. Then press the Enter key. For dual channel models,
select the channel first before setting the voltage. The
selected channel is indicated by a flashing CH1 or CH2
annunciator on the display. Press or to select
the channel.
5. The measured output current should change to a value close
to or exactly what you entered (For example, if current value
is 5.0000 A, it may show 4.9998 A).
6. (Optional) You may also verify the output current by
connecting either the (+) and (-) terminals on the front panel
or the rear panel to an external current meter capable of
measuring the current that you set. The measured value
should match or be close to the entered current value.

39
 7. Press POWER to turn off the power supply and remove the
short on the output terminals.

Check Model and Firmware Version

The model and firmware version can be verified from one of the boot
up screens, or from using the *IDN? query remote command,
described in “4.2 Remote Commands”. Additionally, other system
version and information can be found by following the steps below:

1. Press Menu , then 8 to enter INFORMATION. The

following screen will be displayed.

LCD VER = 2.00 / WEB VER = 1.04

MODULE VER = 1.10 / 1.10

2. There are multiple version numbers shown. However, the

firmware version is displayed under MODULE VER. In the
example screen above, firmware version is shown as 1.10.
3. Press Esc twice to exit the menu.

40
3 Front Panel Operation
3.1 Menu Options
All settings and parameters can be configured from the built-in menu
system of the power supply. To access the menu, press Menu .
The menu system is divided into 8 categories and organized as
follows:

1. SYSTEM SETTING
 REMOTE(USB,ETHERNET,GPIB,RS232 (optional))
 GPIB ADDR(1-30)
 KEY LOCK(ON,OFF)
 IP CONFIG(STATIC)
 IP ADDRESS([Link], where x = 0-9)
 BEEP(ON,OFF)
 LCD BACKLIT(ALWAYS ON, 1,5,10,30 MINS OFF)
 RECALL DEFAULT(NO,YES)
 POWER ON STATE (OFF,LAST)
 OUTPUT MODE (MULTI,SINGLE)*
 TRACKING MODE (ON,OFF)*
 EXTERN CONTROL (VOLT,RES,OFF) (optional)
 EXTERN LEVEL (5V,10V) (optional)
 EXTERN TRIG (ON,OFF) (optional)
2. OUTPUT SETTING
1. VOLT LIMIT SETTING
 VOLT LIMIT MAX (0 – Max. Voltage)
 VOLT LIMIT MIN (0 – Max. Voltage)
2. CURR LIMIT SETTING
 CURR LIMIT MAX (0 – Max. Current)
 CURR LIMIT MIN (0 – Max. Current)
3. VOLT SLEWRATE SETTING
 V SLEWRATE
4. CURR SLEWRATE SETTING
 I SLEWRATE
5. MEASURE AVERAGE(1-10)
6. LED MODE SETTING
 LED MODE (ON,OFF)

41
  Low Current Mode (ON,OFF)**
3. PROTECTION
1. OVP SETTING
 OVP (ON,OFF)
 SET (0 – Max. Voltage)
2. OCP SETTING
 OCP (ON,OFF)
 SET (0 – Max. Current)
4. MEMORY SETTING(0-9)
5. PROGRAM MODE
6. TIMER FUNCTION
 TIMER (ON,OFF)
 TIME (hr:min:sec)
7. CALIBRATION
8. INFORMATION
9. CHAIN SETTING (optional)
 CHAIN ON/OFF (ON,OFF)
 CHAIN ADDRESS(1-31)
*Dual channel models 9173B and 9174B only.

**Models 9184B and 9185B only.

Note: All optional menu items appear only when their respective optional
interface cards are installed inside the power supply.

How to Access the Menu

Before using the instrument, it is important to be familiarized with its
menu structure and how to view or change settings and parameters.
Follow the steps below to guide you in selecting menu options.

Note: The menu cannot be accessed when the output(s) is turned ON or

when it is in remote mode (indicated by RMT light).

42
1. From the front panel, press Menu to enter the main menu
and the below screen will display. The on the bottom right
indicates that there are more categories below that can be
displayed.

1 . SYSTEM SETTING
2 . OUTPUT SETTING
3 . PROTECTION

2. Press to display those categories. The on the

upper right indicates that there are categories above the
current displayed categories shown. Press and the
screen will display the previous menu categories.

4 . MEMORY SETTING
5 . PROGRAM MODE
6 . TIMER FUNCTION

3. Each main category, as well as some submenu items within

the category, has a number next to their respective category
heading. Whenever you see a number next to a menu item
(i.e. 1. SYSTEM SETTING, 4. MEMORY SETTING), use the
numeric keypad to enter that number to access that
category’s menu or submenus. For example, press 1 to
access the SYSTEM SETTING menu.
4. Within the category menus or submenus, adjustable settings
and parameters will have a cursor (indicated by an underline
of a digit or character) to indicate the current selection. Use
43
 the and keys to select the setting you want to
change. Below is an example of the Remote settings being
selected. Note the underline below the first character of the
setting “USB”.

REMOTE = USB
GPIB ADDR = 1
KEY LOCK = OFF

5. Settings have selectable options that are not numeric (i.e.

REMOTE settings shown above). To change them, press

or . To save the changes, press the Enter

key.
6. Parameters have numerical set values (i.e. GPIB ADDR
parameter shown above). To change them, use the numeric
keypad to enter the value you want to change to. To save
the changes, press the Enter key.

Note: Changes to settings and parameters apply only when the Enter

key is pressed to confirm the changes. Otherwise, they will

default to previous set option or value.

44
 3.2 Remote Interface Setup
The standard remote interface available on all models in the series
is the USB (virtual COM) interface. Other optional supported
interfaces such as GPIB, Ethernet (LAN), RS-232, and RS-485are
available, but dependent on the interface card(s) installed on the
instrument. This section will describe how to setup all the supported
interfaces.

Note: The RMT LED will automatically light up when the power
supply is successfully connected to a PC remotely through any
remote interface. Keys on the front panel will be locked until .
(LCL) is pressed to set the instrument back to LOCAL mode.

USB Interface (virtual COM)

The USB interface comes standard on every power supply in the
series. A USB Type A to Type B cable (i.e. USB printer cable) is
required to connect the USB port ( ) in the rear panel to a PC.
Follow the steps below to setup the power supply for USB (virtual
COM) remote communication.
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select
REMOTE and verify that it shows USB, which is the default

option. If not, press or until “USB” is displayed.

Press Enter to save changes.

45
2. Install the USB driver. Visit [Link] to
download the driver. Run the setup executable after
unzipping the downloaded file.

Note: Do this before connecting the USB cable from the

power supply to the PC.

3. Once the installation is successful, connect the USB cable

between the power supply and the PC. Drivers should be
automatically recognized. To verify, go to “Device Manager”
in Windows, and under “Ports (COM & LPT)”, a new device
listed as “210x USB to UART Bridge (COM#)” will be listed.
The “#” is the COM port number assigned by your computer
to interface with the instrument via USB virtual COM.
4. The serial (virtual COM) settings to use are:
BAUDRATE: 57600
PARITY: NONE
DATA BITS: 8
STOP BIT: 1
FLOW CONTROL: NONE

46
GPIB Interface
GPIB interface is available when the LAN/GPIB card is installed in
the “S1” or “S2” slots in the rear panel. To setup the power supply
for GPIB interface, follow the steps below:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

REMOTE and press or until “GPIB” is displayed.

Press Enter to save changes.
2. Select GPIB ADDR and use the numeric keypad to enter the
GPIB address (1 – 30). Press Enter to save changes.

Ethernet (LAN) Interface

LAN interface is available when the LAN/GPIB card is installed in the
“S1” or “S2” slots in the rear panel. To setup the power supply for
LAN interface, follow the steps below:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

REMOTE and press or until “ETHERNET” is

displayed. Press Enter to save changes.
2. Select IP CONFIG and choose STATIC. Press Enter to
save changes.

STATIC Allows you to configure a static IP address

for the power supply.

47
 3. If STATIC is selected, then select IP ADDRESS and use the
numerical keypad to enter the static IP. After entering each
group of 3 digits, press Enter to go to the next group. The
cursor will automatically move to the next group. Do this until
all 12 digits are entered. Be sure to press Enter one more
time after entering the last 3 digits for the complete IP
address entry to be saved.

RS-232 and RS-485 Interface (Optional)

Both RS-232 and RS-485 interface are supported by the power
supply through an optional RS-232 or RS-485 interface card. Both
of these card options must be properly installed before they can be
used. See “1.7 Installing Optional Interface Cards” for details.

RS-232 Interface
The setup for remote control via RS-232 interface is very similar to
the same for USB virtual COM interface. To setup the power supply
for RS-232 operation:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

REMOTE and press or until “RS232” is displayed.

Press Enter to save changes.
2. The settings used for RS232 communication are:

48
 BAUDRATE: 57600
PARITY: NONE
DATA BITS: 8
STOP BIT: 1
FLOW CONTROL: NONE

RS-485 Interface
Multiple power supplies (up to 31) can be connected together in
series and be controlled via USB (virtual COM) interface. Here is an
illustration of how the setup will look like:

Figure 15- RS-485 Setup to Control Multiple Supplies (USB)

To setup and configure the power supplies, follow these steps:

Requirements:
- Optional RS485 cards must be installed on each power supply
- For N number of power supplies, you will need N-1 number of
Ethernet CAT5 straight (pin-to-pin) cables. (Example: To connect
5 power supplies, 4 cables are required)

49
 Note: The cables are used to link the power supplies together.
It is recommended to keep the cables as short as
possible between each unit.

Communicate via USB

1. Take one Ethernet CAT5 cable and connect one end to
labeled “OUT” on the RS485 interface card of the first power
supply (the one that will be connected to the PC via USB
cable).
2. Connect the other end to labeled “IN” on the RS485
interface card of the second power supply.
3. To connect a third power supply, use another Ethernet CAT5
cable and connect one end to labeled “OUT” on the
second power supply. Connect the other end to labeled
“IN” on the interface card of the third power supply.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each subsequent power supplies
added to the multi connection, making sure the connections
follow the “IN” and “OUT” scheme as described.
5. After connecting to the “IN” port of the last power supply in
the connection, if there are more than 10 units connected,
set the physical switch labeled “Terminator” on the RS485
interface card of this last unit to “On”.

Note: The terminator switch should only be set to “On” for the
last power supply in the chain. All other power supplies
should have the terminator switch set to “Off”.
6. With a USB Type A to Type B cable, connect one end to the
USB interface of the first power supply. Connect the other
end to a PC to be used to control all the supplies. Refer to
Figure 15 to verify your connections.
50
7. With the connections setup properly, on the first power
supply, press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING.
Select REMOTE and verify that “USB” is selected. Press Enter
to save changes.
8. Press Esc once to go back to the main menu and press 9
to enter CHAIN SETTING.

9. Select CHAIN ON/OFF and press or to set it to “ON”.

Press Enter to save changes.
10. Select CHAIN ADDRESS and set it to “1”. Press Enter to
save changes and then press Esc twice to exit the
menu.
11. Repeat steps 7 thru 10 for each of the power supplies in the
chain. However in step 10, set the CHAIN ADDRESS of
each power supply to a different number. (i.e. Set to 1 for
power supply #1, 2 for power supply #2, 3 for power supply
#3, …etc.) The address is used to reference the power
supply during remote operation.
12. Refer to “4.2 Remote Commands” for the list of remote
commands specific for RS485 communication.

51
 3.3 Adjusting LCD Display, Key Lock, Key
Sound
LCD Backlight Timer
The LCD backlight has a timer that can be set to dim its brightness
within a set time from when the instrument is idle. To set this:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

LCD BACKLIT. Press or to change the backlight

timer setting. Selectable options are:
Options Description
ALWAYS ON Default – Display never dims.
1 MINS OFF Display dims after 1 minute
5 MINS OFF Display dims after 5 minutes
10 MINS OFF Display dims after 10 minutes
30 MINS OFF Display dims after 30 minutes

2. Press Enter to save changes.

Key Lock
Users can manually lock the front panel keypad. To set this:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

KEY LOCK. Press or to change it. Selectable

options are:

52
 Options Description
OFF Default
ON Lock keypad

2. Press Enter to save changes. Press Esc twice to exit the

menu.
3. If ON is selected, all keys from the front panel, except
for . , will be locked. The Lock LED indicator will be lit.
4. To unlock, press . and the Lock LED indicator will turn off.
The KEY LOCK option under SYSTEM SETTING category
will automatically default back to OFF.

Disabling Key Sound

To disable the beep from key presses:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

BEEP. Press or to change it. Selectable options

are:
Options Description
ON Default
OFF Disable key beep

2. Change it to OFF, and press Enter to save changes. All key

presses will no longer beep.
3. To enable it again, set BEEP to ON.

53
 3.4 Restore to Factory Default
All instrument settings can be reset back to their factory default
values by doing the following:

WARNING:
Restoring the instrument to factory default will
change all current instrument settings and
parameters back to their default values.

1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

RECALL DEFAULT. Press or to change it.

Selectable options are:
Options Description
OFF Default
ON Resets instrument with factory
default settings and parameters

2. Change it to ON, and press Enter . The following prompt will

display:

ARE YOU SURE TO RECALL DEFAULT?

(YES/NO) NO

54
3. To cancel this action, press Enter with NO marked by the
cursor. To confirm resetting the instrument to factory default,

press to select YES and press Enter .

4. After approximately 5 seconds, the instrument will
automatically jump back to the normal display. All settings
are now set back to their factory default values.

Table 3 Factory Default Settings

REMOTE USB
GPIB ADDR 1
KEY LOCK OFF
IP CONFIG STATIC
IP ADDRESS [Link]
BEEP ON
LCD BACKLIT ALWAYS ON
VOLT LIMIT MAX Max. rated voltage of model
VOLT LIMIT MIN 0.000V
CURR LIMIT MAX Max. rated current of model
CURR LIMIT MIN 0.0005A
MEASURE AVERAGE TIME 2
LED MODE OFF
OVP SETTING OFF, SET = Max. rated voltage
of model
OCP SETTING OFF, SET = Max. rated current
of model
TIMER FUNCTION OFF

55
 3.5 Configure Voltage and Current Output
Voltage and Current Limit Settings
The power supply has software voltage and current limit protection
settings that can be configured to limit the settable range for output
from front panel or remote operation. Follow the steps in this section
to adjust these settings.

Voltage Limit Set

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 1
to select VOLT LIMIT SETTING.
2. VOLT LIMIT MAX should be selected. Use the keypad to
enter the maximum voltage set limit and press Enter to save
changes. The maximum voltage that can be set depends on
the power supply’s maximum output voltage.
3. VOLT LIMIT MIN is now selected. Again, use the keypad to
enter the minimum voltage set limit and press Enter to save
changes.
4. Press Esc once to return to previous menu items, or press
three times to exit the menu when finished.

Dual Channel Models

For models with dual channels, the display will look different, with
CH1 and CH2 indicators on the left side of the display to indicate
their respective VOLT LIMIT MAX/MIN parameters.

56
 CH1 VOLT LIMIT MAX = _20.400 V
CH1 VOLT LIMIT MIN = 0 V
CH2 VOLT LIMIT MAX = _20.400 V

CH2 VOLT LIMIT MIN = _ 0.000 V

Current Limit Set

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 2
to select CURR LIMIT SETTING.
2. CURR LIMIT MAX should be selected. Use the keypad to
enter the maximum current set limit and press Enter to save
changes. The maximum current that can be set depends on
the power supply’s maximum output current.
3. CURR LIMIT MIN is now selected. Again, use the keypad to
enter the minimum current set limitand press Enter to save
changes.
4. Press Esc once to return to previous menu items, or press
three times to exit the menu when finished.

Dual Channel Models

For models with dual channels, the display will look different, with
CH1 and CH2 indicators on the left side of the display to indicate
their respective CURR LIMIT MAX/MIN parameters.

57
 CH1 CURR LIMIT MAX = _10.200 A
CH1 CURR LIMIT MIN= 0.000 A
CH2 CURR LIMIT MAX = _10.200 A

CH2 CURR LIMIT MIN = _ 0.000 A

Configure Voltage and Current Output

Voltage and current can be set and output from the front panel and
the rear panel terminals. Refer to “3.7 Remote Sense” for setup
instructions if remote sense will be used for voltage compensation at
the output.

Setting Voltage
Follow the steps below to set the output voltage:
1. For single channel models, skip to step 2 below. For dual
channel models, from the main display press or
to select the channel for setting voltage. The channel
indicators CH1 or CH2 will flash to indicate the selected
channel.
Vsetuse the numeric
2. With the main display shown, press and
keypad to enter your set voltage. Then press Enter . Below is
an example screen for setting 5 V.

58
 SET = 5.000 V
OFF5 . 000 V 1 . 000 A

For Dual Channel models:

SET = 5.000 V
CH1 OFF5 . 000 V1 . 000 A
CH2 OFF5 . 000 V 1 . 000 A

3. Models 9184B and 9185B do not have auto ranging

available. The range must be selected manually and can be
set as HIGH or LOW range.

9184B: HIGH range – 200 V / 1 A

LOW range – 100 V / 2 A
9185B: HIGH range – 600 V / 0.35 A
LOW range – 400 V / 0.5 A
To select HIGH range, press from the normal display
where VOLT RANGE is indicated.

OFF200 . 00 V 1 . 000 A
VOLT RANGE = HIGH ( : H / :L)

To select LOW range, press instead.

59
 OFF100 . 00 V 2 . 000 A
VOLT RANGE = LOW ( : H / :L)

Note: The voltage setting range is dependent on the unit’s

maximum voltage output specification as well as the
voltage limits set from the system menu. Verify VOLT
LIMIT MAX and VOLT LIMIT MIN settings if you are
unable to set a voltage within the specifications of the
power supply.

Setting Current
Follow the steps below to set the output current:
1. For single channel models, skip to step 2 below. For dual
channel models, from the main display press or
to select the channel for setting current. The channel
indicators CH1 or CH2 will flash to indicate the selected
channel.
2. With the main display shown, press Iset and use the
numeric keypad to enter your set current. Then press Enter .
Below is an example screen for setting 2 A.

SET = 2.000 A
OFF5 . 000 V 2 . 000 A

60
 For Dual Channel models:

SET = 2.000 A
CH1 OFF5 . 000 V 2 . 000 A
CH2 OFF5 . 000 V 2 . 000 A

3. Models 9184B and 9185B do not have auto ranging

available. The range must be selected manually and can be
set as HIGH or LOW range.

9184B: HIGH range – 200 V / 1 A

LOW range – 100 V / 2 A
9185B: HIGH range – 600 V / 0.35 A
LOW range – 400 V / 0.5 A
To select HIGH range, press from the normal display
To select LOW range, press instead.

Note: The current setting range is dependent on the unit’s

maximum current output specification as well as the
current limits set from the system menu. Verify CURR
LIMIT MAX and CURR LIMIT MIN settings if you are
unable to set a current within the specifications of the
power supply.

61
Enable/Disable Output

WARNING:
Before connecting wires to the front or rear panel
output terminals, output should remain OFF to
avoid shocks and damage to the device under test
(DUT), especially when setting the supply for high
voltage output. For safety, load wires must have a
wire gauge size large enough to prevent
overheating when the power supply operates at
maximum short circuit output current. It will also
prevent large voltage drops from resistances in the
wires.

The OUTPUT button is used to enable or disable the supply output

from both the front panel and the rear panel output terminals. A
green LED light next to the button will be lit when OUTPUT is
pressed to turn ON (enable), and the OFF annunciator will
disappear from the display. This will reappear when output is OFF
(disable) upon pressing OUTPUT again, and the green LED light
will disappear. For dual channel models, CH1 and CH2 are used
in place of OUTPUT as output ON/OFF for CH1 and CH2
respectively. Dual channel models can also be configured so that
both channels’ output states (ON or OFF) can be synchronized. See
“3.6Dual Channel Configurations” under “Multi/Single Output
Control” for setup instructions.

62
Controlling Voltage/Current Output with Keys
When the output is ON (enabled), the voltage (CV mode) or current
(CC mode) output can be controlled incrementally by key presses.

To do this, press or and a cursor will appear, highlighting the

last digit of the measured voltage or current display. Use or

to change and select the digit you want to change, and press
or to increase or decrease that digit. The output voltage or
current will change immediately as you change the digits. Press Enter
at any time or allow the supply to idle for 10 seconds (without any
key presses) to go back to the normal display.

CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

For Dual Channel models:

CH1CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

CH2CV 5 . 000 V1 . 000 A

Note: The voltage setting range is dependent on the unit’s

maximum voltage output specification as well as the
voltage limits set from the system menu. Verify VOLT

63
 LIMIT MAX and VOLT LIMIT MIN settings if you are
unable to set a voltage within the specifications of the
power supply.

Slew Rate Configuration

Voltage and current slew rate of the output can be configured by
doing the following:

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 3

to select VOLT SLEWRATE SETTING. The following will be
displayed:

V SLEWRATE = _ 7.000 V / ms

For Dual Channel models:

CH1 V SLEWRATE = _ 7.000 V / ms

CH2 V SLEWRATE = _ 7.000 V / ms

2. Use the keypad to enter the voltage slew rate. (Refer to

Table 4) Then press Enter the save the changes.

64
3. Press Esc once to return to the previous menu items, and
press 4 to select CURR SLEWRATE SETTING. The
following will be displayed:

I SLEWRATE = _ 0.600 A / ms

For Dual Channel models:

CH1 I SLEWRATE = _ 0.600 A / ms

CH2 I SLEWRATE = _ 0.600 A / ms

4. Use the keypad to enter the current slew rate, then press Enter
to save changes.
5. Press Esc once to return to previous menu items, or press
three times to exit the menu when finished.

Table 4- Voltage and Current Slew Rate Ranges

Model V Slew Rate (V/ms) I Slew Rate (A/ms)

9171B 0.001 – 2.500 0.001 – 1.250
9172B 0.001 – 7.000 0.001 – 0.300
9173B 0.001 – 2.500 0.001 – 1.250
9174B 0.001 – 7.000 0.001 – 0.300
9181B 0.001 – 4.500 0.001 – 1.000
9182B 0.001 – 2.500 0.001 – 2.500
9183B 0.001 – 7.000 0.001 – 0.600
9184B 0.001 – 6.666 0.001 – 0.066

65
 9185B 0.001 – 15.00 0.001 – 0.0125

Output Timer Function

The power supply has a built-in output timer function that can be
enabled to allow setting a time in which output is remained ON.
Follow the steps below to setup this function:

1. Press Menu , then 6 to select TIMER FUNCTION. The

following screen will be displayed:

TIMER = OFF
TIME = 0 Hr 0 Min 0 Sec

2. While the cursor is selecting TIMER, press so that ON is

selected, then press Enter to set and select TIME. This will
be the time for which the output will remain ON.
3. Use the numeric keypad to enter the Hr (hour) for the output
to remain ON. Press Enter to select Min (minute). Enter a
value and press Enter again to select Sec (second).
4. The acceptable ranges are:
Hr: 0 – 999, Min: 0 – 59, Sec: 0 – 59
5. Press Esc once to return to previous menu items, or press
three times to exit the menu when finished.
6. Upon returning to the main display, it will show the following:

66
 TIMER = 000 : 00 : 00 Sec
OFF10 . 000 V1 . 000 A

For Dual Channel models:

TIMER = 000 : 00 : 00 Sec

CH1OFF10 . 000 V1 . 000 A
CH2OFF10 . 000 V1 . 000 A

7. Press OUTPUT ( CH1 or CH2 for dual channel models) to

turn the output ON, and the TIMER on the display will start
running. The ON annunciator will display, and the output will
remain ON until the configured time period (from step 3)
ends.

Note: For dual channel models, the timer function will work
only with both channels ON (enabled) simultaneously
regardless of the OUTPUT MODE setting configured in
SYSTEM SETTING menu. The internal timer is shared
by both channels.

67
Measurement Average Setting
The averaging measurements used to display a reading can be
adjusted by following the steps below:

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 5

to select MEASURE AVERAGE. The following will display:

AVERAGE TIME = _ 2

2. Use the numeric keypad to enter the number of

measurements the instrument will average out prior to
displaying the value. Valid numbers are from 1 to 10.
3. Press Enter to save changes, then press Esc three times
to exit the menu.

3.6 Dual Channel Configurations

Features described in this section pertain to dual channel models
9173B and 9174B only. They are not available for all other models.

Multi/Single Output Control

Dual channel outputs can be configured so that pressing the output
buttons can turn ON (enable) or OFF (disable) both channels’
outputs simultaneously.

68
Note: When multiple output control is setup, there will be a maximum of 3
ms delay between channel 1 and channel 2 when both channels change
output from OFF (disable) state to ON (enable) state.

Follow the steps below to configure this setting:

1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Go
down the list of settings and select OUTPUT MODE.

2. Press to select MULTI. Press Enter to confirm the

changes, and press Esc twice to exit the menu. If SINGLE
is selected, output control of the two channels will not be
simultaneous; their output states can be controlled
independently.

Series/Parallel Tracking Mode

Tracking mode can be enabled so that both channels can be
synchronized, especially when connected together in series or
parallel. To turn on tracking mode, follow the steps here:
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Go
down the list of settings and select TRACKING MODE.

2. Press to select ON. Press Enter to confirm the changes,

and press Esc twice to exit the menu. To disable it, select
OFF.
69
 3. The TRK annunciator will appear on the display to indicate
tracking mode is enabled. Both channels are now
synchronized.

TRK
CH1OFF 10 . 000 V 1 . 000 A
CH2OFF 10 . 000 V 1 . 000 A

3.7 Remote Sense

Single channel models 9171B, 9172B, 9181B, 9182B, and 9183B
have both front and rear panel remote sense terminals. Dual
channel models 9173B and 9174B, and high voltage single channel
models 9184B and 9185B have rear panel remote sense terminals
only. Remote sense can be used to compensate for voltage drops
due to resistance from test leads connected to your device under
test (DUT), thus providing more accurate output voltage. The power
supply is initially setup to local sense mode by default. Refer to the
following sections for details of local and remote sense setup.

Local Sense
All power supplies are setup with local sense by default. In local
sense mode, shorting bars between the sense terminals and output
terminals are connected on the front panel (if available) and rear
panel outputs. Refer to Figure 16 below (Note: Some models do not
have front panel sense terminals, indicated by +S and -S):

70
 +S + - -S

+S + + - - - S
Front Panel Shorting Bar Rear Panel Shorting Bar

Figure 16-Local Sense with Shorting Bar

For front panel, +S and + terminals are shorted together, and –S

and – terminals are shorted together with shorting bars. For rear
panel, +S and + (next to +S) are shorted together, and –S and –
(next to –S) are shorted together with small metal shorting bars.

Note: For calibration, local sense should be used.

Remote Sense
To setup and use remote sense from the front panel (if available),
both the front panel and rear panel shorting bars must be removed.
The front +S and –S sense ports are then connected directly to the
DUT, like Figure 17 below:

71
 Figure 17- Front Panel Remote Sense Setup

To use remote sense from the rear panel, both front panel (if
available) and rear panel shorting bars must also be removed. The
rear +S and –S ports are connected directly to the DUT, like Figure
18 below:

Figure 18- Rear Panel Remote Sense Setup

WARNING:
In remote sense where both the front and/or rear
panel shorting bars are removed, never connect a
device directly to the front (if applicable) and/or
back +S and –S terminals only. Always connect the
+ and – terminals first, then connect the +S and – S
terminals. Otherwise, the sense lines will burn out
internally and cause damage to the supply.

72
 DO NOT CONNECT LIKE BELOW:

For operating with output current higher than 10 A, the connection is

the same as Figure 18 above, with the addition of connecting the
second pair of (+) and (-) terminals in the rear panel, like below:

73
 Rear Panel Output Rear Panel Output

Remove Shorting bars

+S + + - - - S +S + + - - - S

Front Panel Output

+S + - -S

+ -
DUT

Remove shorting bars

Figure 19- Remote Sense Setup for 10A or Higher Current Output Operation

WARNING:
DO NOT output 10A or more with only one pair of
(+) and (-) terminals in the rear panel. Both (+)
terminals and both (-) terminals must all be
connected for applications requiring more than
10A output. Each terminal can only accept
maximum of 10A. Exceeding this may damage the
power supply.

74
 3.8 LED and Low Current Test Modes
LED Mode
All of these power supplies have LED mode, which enables them to
function specifically for LED test applications. When this mode is
ON (enabled), the power supply can operate in such a way as to
minimize or almost eliminate the inrush current drawn by the LED
load, which normally exists when the output switches from an OFF
state to an ON state.

To enable LED mode, follow these steps:

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 6
to select LED MODE SETTING.

2. Press to select ON, then press Enter to confirm the

changes. Press Esc twice to exit the menu. For dual
channel models, both channels will have LED mode enabled.

LED MODE = ON

Consider the following example for 9184B with setup in Figure 20:

75
 Figure 20- LED Testing Example

The 9184B supply output is initially OFF (disabled). The LED light
bar is rated for 170 V. A 10 Ω resistor is placed in series with the
LED light bar. The power supply current setting (ISET) is 20 mA.
Using an oscilloscope to probe between the resistor to measure
current, the power supply’s output is then turned ON. The measured
results are shown in Figure 21, which compares the measured
results with and without LED mode ON (enabled):

Inrush current

Output ON Output ON

LED Mode OFF (disabled) LED Mode ON (enabled)

Figure 21 - Inrush Current With and Without LED Mode Enabled

76
With LED mode ON (enabled), the power supply can minimize or
eliminate any inrush current from turning the output ON, which in
turn will minimize damage or life of the LEDs under test.

Note: For LED mode to function correctly, the output must be turned
OFF when connecting between the power supply and the LEDs
under test. Turn ON the output after LED mode is enabled and
all other settings are configured.

WARNING:
For models 9184B and 9185B, Low Current MODE
must be set to OFF when using LED mode. If both
are ON, the supply may produce inrush current.

Low Current Mode

Available on models 9184B and 9185B only.
Low current mode is a unique function that enables the power
supply to minimize voltage rise times when operating with low
current (< 1 A) output with a high voltage change.

To enable Low current mode, follow these steps:

1. Press Menu , then 2 to enter OUTPUT SETTING. Press 6
to select Low Current MODE.

77
 2. Press to select ON, then press Enter to confirm the
changes. Press Esc twice to exit the menu.

LED MODE = OFF

Low Current MODE = ON

Consider the following example screenshots measuring a voltage

chance from 0 V to 60 V with a load of 100 mA connected to the
output.

20 ms 5 ms

Low Current Mode OFF Low Current Mode ON

Figure 22 - Inrush Current With and Without Low Current Mode Enabled

When operating with low current output, enabling Low Current mode
can reduce the voltage rise time upon a change in the voltage
output.

78
 3.9 Output Protection
Configure OVP
Overvoltage protection (OVP) is available to limit the voltage output
and to protect a connected DUT from an overvoltage condition.
When the power supply trips the OVP, a short beep will sound and
the OVP (OVP1/OVP2 for dual channel models) LED indicator on
the front panel will be lit. The green output light will also disappear
and output will turn OFF (disable) immediately. To clear the OVP
trip, press any key and the OVP (OVP1/OVP2 for dual channel
models) LED indicator will turn OFF. To activate OVP, follow the
steps below:
1. Press Menu , then 3 to enter PROTECTION, and press 1
to select OVP SETTING.

OVP = ON SET = 70.000 V

For Dual Channel models:

CH1 OVP = ON SET = 70.000 V

CH2 OVP = OFF SET = 70.000 V

79
 2. Press to select ON. Press Enter to confirm the changes,
and use the numeric keypad to set the voltage limit for the
protection to trip. Press Enter again to save changes. When
the power supply voltage output reaches this limit, the OVP
will trip.
3. Press Esc twice to exit the menu. To disable it, select
OFF.

Configure OCP
Overcurrent protection (OCP) is available to limit the current output
and to protect a connected DUT from an overcurrent condition.
When the power supply trips the OCP, a short beep will sound and
the OCP (OCP1/OCP2 for dual channel models) LED indicator on
the front panel will be lit. The green output light will also disappear
and output will turn OFF (disable) immediately. To clear the OCP
trip, press any key and the OCP (OCP1/OCP2 for dual channel
models) LED indicator will turn OFF. To activate OCP, follow the
steps below:
1. Press Menu , then 3 to enter PROTECTION, and press 2
to select OCP SETTING.

OCP = ON SET = 10.000 A

80
 For Dual Channel models:

CH1 OCP = ON SET = 10.000 A

CH2 OCP = OFF SET = 10.000 A

2. Press to select ON. Press Enter to confirm the changes,

and use the numeric keypad to set the current limit for the
protection to trip. Press Enter again to save changes. When
the power supply current output reaches this limit, the OCP
will trip.
3. Press Esc twice to exit the menu. To disable it, select
OFF.

3.10 Save/Recall Output Settings

The power supply has internal memory to store up to 10 settings,
and each setting includes the set voltage (VSET) and set current
(ISET) values.

81
Save Output Settings
Follow these steps to save settings:
1. Press Menu , then 4 to enter MEMORY SETTING. The
following screen will be displayed:

MEM = 0
V = 0.000 V I = 0.000 A

For Dual Channel models:

MEM = 0
CH1 V = 0.000 V I = 0.000 A
CH2 V = 0.000 V I = 0.000 A

2. Press or or use the keypad to select the memory

location to store settings into. Choose between 0 – 9.
3. Press Enter to set, and use the keypad to enter a value for
voltage. Afterwards, press Enter and enter a value for
[Link]
Press once more and the voltage and current
values will be stored into the selected memory location.
4. The cursor will then automatically move back to select MEM,
and the location number will automatically increment to the
next, except if number 9 (last memory location) was
previously selected.

82
 5. For dual channel models, repeat step 3 twice, once for CH1
and for CH2. Each memory location will store both channels’
voltage and current settings.

Recall Output Settings

To recall a saved setting:
1. Press RCL
and the screen will display as follows:

RECALL =
OFF 0.000 V 0.000 A

For Dual Channel models:

RECALL =
CH1OFF 10 . 000 V 1 . 000 A
CH2OFF 10 . 000 V 1 . 000 A

2. Use the keypad to enter the memory location that contains

the voltage and current values to recall. The voltage and
current settings will change immediately to the recalled
settings.

Configure Power-On State

The power supply can be powered up to a last known state, which
can be useful in the case of power interruption. To configure this,
follow the steps below:
83
 1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING. Select

POWER ON STATE. Press or to change it to LAST

for setting the power on state to last known configuration.
Select OFF to turn it off.
2. Press Enter to confirm the change.

3.11 Sequence Program Mode

Up to 10 (1 – 10) programmed sequences can be stored into the
internal memory of the power supply and be executed from the front
panel or via remote commands. A sequence consists of various
steps of voltage and current values with a user defined time to hold
at each step. This allows the user to change the voltage and current
output of the power supply at different timings in a sequence. The
maximum number of steps per sequence is 150, and the
minimum timing in between steps is 10 ms. For dual channel
models, the programmed sequence will control both channels
per every step. Programming a sequence for each channel
independently is not supported.

Sequences must be programmed into the memory via remote

interface (i.e. USB, GPIB, Ethernet) before it can be executed from
the front panel. See “4 Remote Operation” for details.

Assuming that sequences are already programmed into the internal

memory, follow these steps to execute a program.

84
 1. Press Menu , then 5 to enter PROGRAM MODE. The
following screen will be displayed:

PROGRAM NUMBER = 0
PROGRAM OFF

2. Use the keypad to select the program number where the

sequence is stored. Valid number is 1 – 10. Press Enter to
confirm the program.
3. Press OUTPUT ( CH1 or CH2 for dual channel models) to
enable the output and execute the programmed sequence.
For dual channel models, both outputs will turn ON.
4. To disable the sequence at any time, press OUTPUT

( CH1 or CH2 for dual channel models) again. This will also
turn OFF the output. For dual channel models, both outputs
will be OFF.

3.12 External Analog Control

The power supply output(s) can be controlled by external DC voltage
sources (0 – 5 V or 0 – 10 V) or resistances (0 – 5kΩ). The
optional DIO/Analog Card must be installed for this function to
be available.

85
 Note: The external control circuit uses a 12-bit D/A converter, thus
resolution for voltage and current is limited to 10 mV and 10 mA
respectively.

WARNING:
The terminals for external analog control of voltage and
current have no input protection. Therefore take
caution when connecting to a DC source or a
resistance. For voltage source control, do not input a
voltage outside of the range -0.7 V to 5.7 V for the 0-5 V
scale, or -0.7 V to 10.7 V for 0-10 V scale. This will
damage the supply. For resistance control, do not
connect with resistance greater than 5 kΩ. Doing so
may damage the instrument and cause it to go out of
calibration.

WARNING:
External analog control inputs do not have reverse
polarity protection. Therefore, for external voltage
control, do not connect to a live DC source until
verifying that the positive side is connected properly to
the (+) terminal and negative side to the (-) terminal for
both current and voltage. Never short the (+) and (-)
terminals together as it may damage the instrument.

Voltage Control
You can select the voltage control scale between 0 – 5 V or 0 – 10 V,
with 5 V and 10 V setting the maximum voltage/current output
respectively, and 0 V being the minimum voltage/current output,
which is 0 V/0 A(The scale factor is linear to the full scale
voltage/current output). With model 9172B (rated 35V/3A, 70V/1.5A)
as an example, using the 0 – 10 V scale and applying 0 V input for V
86
will output 0 V. Applying 10 V input for V will output 35 V or 70 V
depending on the range. Likewise, 10 V for I will set current to 3A or
1.5 A depending on the range. See the setup below:
0–5V 0–5V
OR OR
0 – 10 V 0 – 10 V

+ - + -
DC DC

Dual channel DIO/Analog Card

+ - + -
+-+- +-+- I V
I V I V
EX EX
+-+-
I V
EX Card EXT CTL
Single channel DIO/Analog

Figure 23- External Voltage Control

Note: Two separate DC voltage sources must be used for the setup.
One for controlling voltage and one for current. Using one for
either voltage or current will not operate correctly. If source is
used for voltage, current setting will remain 0. If source is used
for current, voltage setting will remain 0.

Resistance Control
You can externally control the voltage/current output with variable
resistances 0 – 5 kΩ. 5kΩ sets the maximum voltage/current output,

87
and 0 kΩ will set the minimum voltage/current output, which is 0 V/0
A (The scale factor is linear to the full scale voltage/current output).

See the setup below:

0 – 5 kΩ 0 – 5 kΩ

Dual channel DIO/Analog Card

+ - + -
+-+- +-+- I V
I V I V
EX EX
+-+-
I V
EX Card EXT CTL
Single channel DIO/Analog

Figure 24- External Resistance Control

Note: Two separate variable resistances must be used for the setup.
One for controlling voltage and one for current. Using one for
either voltage or current will not operate correctly. If resistance is
used for voltage, current setting will remain 0. If resistance is
used for current, voltage setting will remain 0.

Follow the steps below to setup the supply for external analog
control:
88
1. Press Menu , then 1 to enter SYSTEM SETTING.
2. Go down to EXTERN CONTROL (this option is only

available with DIO/Analog Card installed) and press or

to select between OFF, VOLT, or RES. Select VOLT

for external voltage control or RES for external resistance
control. Select OFF to disable external analog control.
3. Press Enter to save the change. If VOLT is selected in the
previous step, go to EXTERN LEVEL setting right below

EXTERN CONTROL and press or to select

between 5V or 10V. Selecting 5V means a 0 – 5V source
will be used to control the full range of the voltage/current.
Similarly, 10V means a 0 – 10V source will be used.
4. Press Enter again to save the change, and press Esc twice
to go to the main screen, which will look like the following
below (Note that voltage and current resolution will be 10 mV
and 10 mA for external analog control):

OFF 0.00 V 0.00 A

For Dual Channel models:

89
 CH1 OFF 0.00 V 0.00 A
CH2OFF 0.00 V 0.00 A

5. Press OUTPUT to turn the output ON (enabled), and output

voltage and current will change as your external DC voltage
sources or resistances change.

Note: When external analog control is enabled, all front panel keys are
locked except for Menu and OUTPUT ( CH1 or CH2 for dual
channel models). Output voltage and current is locked to be
controlled with the connected external voltage sources or
resistances only. To return to normal control and display mode,
follow the steps above to disable external analog control.

3.13 Digital I/O

Digital I/O functions are supported with the DIO/Analog card
installed.

The instrument uses a DB-9 9-pin interface for digital I/O operations.
A total of 9 pins are available, 8 of which can be configured as
INPUT or OUTPUT and 1 for ground (GND) via remote commands
(Refer to Table 5). The maximum voltage for input is 5 V, and
maximum voltage for output from the supply is also 5 V.

90
 +-+- +-+- Dual Channel DIO/Analog Card
I V I V
EX EX
Single Channel DIO/Analog Card
I
EX

5 4 3 2 1

9 8 7 6

Figure 25- Digital I/O Interface

Below are the pin assignments for each of the 9 pins.

Table 5- Digital I/O Pin Assignment

Pin# 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Type I/O I/O I/O I/O GND I/O I/O I/O I/O
Binary Bit # 7 6 5 4 - 3 2 1 0
Decimal
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Representation
I/O – Can be set to either input or output.
GND – Ground pin

91
 WARNING:
Do not input more than 5 V to any of the digital I/O pins.
Doing so may damage the instrument and void its
warranty.

INPUT
Digital input for representing logic high (1) is 5 V, and for logic low
(0) is 0 V.
Minimum voltage for logic high (1) must be at least 3.15 V.
Maximum voltage for logic low (0) must not exceed 1.35 V.

To setup any of the 8 pins (except pin 5) as input pins, the remote
command GPIO:DIR is used. All pins (except pin 5) are represented
as 8-bits binary, according to Table 5 above. A “1” represents
OUTPUT, and a “0” represents INPUT. When using the GPIO:DIR
command, the decimal representation of the 8-bits binary is used.

For example, to set pins 7, 4, 2 and 1 as INPUT pins, their values

must be set to 0, and the rest 1. Send:

GPIO:DIR 212

212 is used to represent11010100 in binary. Only pins 7, 4, 2, and 1

have the value “0”, which represents INPUT.
Pin 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 1 0 1 - 0 1 0 0

To check the status of the input pins to be either 5 V (1) or 0 V (0),

92
use the GPIO? query command. It will return the decimal
representation of the 8-bits binary that represents all the pins. The
pins with bit value “1” have 5 V at the input, and “0” for 0 V at input.

For example, suppose all pins are set as INPUT pins, but only pin 2
and 1 have a 5 V logic high (1) signal, then only these two pins
return “1” and the rest “0”. Sending GPIO? command will return: 3.
The complete 8-bit binary would be 00000011.
Pin 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0 0 0 0 - 0 0 1 1

Note if there are output pins configured, those pins are ignored and
will have the value “0”.

OUTPUT
To setup any of the 8 pins (except pin 5) as output pins, the remote
command GPIO:DIR is used. All pins (except pin 5) are represented
as 8-bits binary, according to Table 5 above. A “1” represents
OUTPUT, and a “0” represents INPUT. When using the GPIO:DIR
command, the decimal representation of the 8-bits binary is used.

For example, to set pins 8, 6, and 3 as OUTPUT pins, their values

must be set to 1, and the rest 0. Send:

GPIO:DIR 84

84 is used to represent 01010100 in binary. Only pins 8, 6, and 3

93
have the value “1”, which represents OUTPUT.
Pin 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0 1 0 1 - 0 1 0 0

Digital output for representing logic high (1) is 5 V, and for logic low
(0) is 0 V. To set an output pin’s logic level, use the GPIO remote
command. Again, all pins (except pin 5) are represented as 8-bits
binary, according to Table 5 above. When using the GPIO
command, the decimal representation of the 8-bits binary is used.

Taking the example above with pins 8, 6, and 3 set as OUTPUT

pins, if pins 8 and 3 are to be set with logic high (5 V) and pin 6 set
with logic low (0 V), send the following command:

GPIO 68

68 is used to represent 01000100 in binary. Only pins 8 and 3 have

the value “1” to represent logic high and output 5 V. Pin 6 has the
value “0” to represent logic low and output 0 V. All other pins should
be “0” as they are input pins and thus, are ignored.
Pin 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0 1 0 0 - 0 1 0 0

3.14 Display Errors

The following errors may be displayed under certain operating
conditions. Their descriptions are shown in the table below.

Error Message Description

94
 The input value is out of the settable
INPUT RANGE ERROR!
range of the power supply.
TURN OFF OUTPUT Disable output first before accessing
FIRST menu.

3.15 Connecting in Series and Parallel

Some of the models in the series are capable of connecting to
another model of the same kind in series or in parallel to double the
voltage output or current output respectively. While these are
possible for some models, some models cannot be connected in
such a way. Please see the below list of warnings pertaining to such
connections.

WARNING:
 Do not connect multiple units of models 9184B or 9185B
in series or in parallel. Due to their high voltage output
design, these cannot be configured to increase voltage
or current in a series connection or parallel connection
setup respectively.
 Only connect multiples units in series or parallel of the
same model. Do not mix models together. For example,
you can connect two 9171B together, but not 9171B and
9172B together.
 Do not connect more than 2 units of models 9174B when
series/parallel tracking is used.
 Do not connect more than 3 units of models 9172B and
9183B.
 Never connect more than 4 units at a time in series or
parallel.
 Total voltage output can never exceed maximum 240 V.
 Do not use rear output terminals when connecting
multiple units in series or in parallel. Use front panel
output terminals only.

95
 When increasing the total output current by connecting
multiple units in parallel, be sure that the connecting
wires have enough thickness to handle the amount of
current. Otherwise, they may overheat and/or drop
voltage levels significantly.

96
4 Remote Operation
4.1 Interface Connection
USB (Virtual COM) & RS-232
All models have a standard USB interface (virtual COM) that can be
used for remote communication. Optionally, an RS232 interface
card is available for remote control via RS-232 interface. Both USB
(virtual COM) and RS-232 have the same serial settings listed
below:

BAUDRATE: 57600
PARITY: NONE
DATA BITS: 8
STOP BIT: 1
FLOW CONTROL: NONE

For RS-232 connectivity, refer to the diagram below for pin out
information:

5 4 3 2 1

9 8 7 6

Figure 26- RS-232 Interface

97
 Table 6- RS-232 Pin Out

PIN Description
1 -
2 Transmit Data
3 Receive Data
4 -
5 GND
6 -
7 -
8 -
9 -

A straight pin-to-pin DB9female to DB9male serial cable is

required for using RS-232 interface. Do not use a null modem
or crossover DB9 serial cable.

GPIB
GPIB option is available when the supply is installed with the
optional LAN/GPIB interface card. Each model can be configured
with a GPIB address from 1 – 30. To communicate via GPIB,
connect a GPIB cable to the GPIB interface of the LAN/GPIB
interface card, as illustrated below.

Figure 27- GPIB Interface

98
Ethernet (LAN)
Ethernet (LAN) option is available when the supply is installed with
the optional LAN/GPIB interface card. There are three ways to
control the power supply via LAN interface: Web server, Telnet
connection, Socket connection.

Web Server
There is an embedded web server GUI that can access the power
supply via LAN interface using a java enabled web browser. The
GUI provides a simple way of setting voltage and current, as well as
monitoring the output, using a web browser from a computer
connected to the same local area network as the power supply. To
access this, do the following:
1. On the computer, open up a java-enabled web browser.
2. From the power supply menu, copy down the IP ADDRESS
that you or the server configured and type in that address in
the URL bar of your browser with http:// prefix (i.e.
[Link] for IP Address [Link])
3. If correctly configured, the following screen will be shown:

99
 91XXB

4. A password is required to login and access any of the menu

items on the page.
DEFAULT ADMIN PASSWORD: 123456

Menu Items
This table describes each of the menu items available on the left
frame of the web browser GUI.

Table 7- Web Browser Menu Description

Home Provides general information of the power supply:

Model Number, Manufacturer, Short Description,
MAC Address, IP Address, Firmware Version.
Configuration Allows users to configure: OVP Setting, OCP
Setting, LCD Backlight, *Change Password.
*Be sure to remember the new password if
changed because it cannot be override.
Status Shows last error or warning messages from the power
supply. It should normally be 0, which means no
error(s).
Web Control Allows the user to manually send remote commands
(see “4Remote Operation” for details) and control:
100
 Vset, Iset, Output state, Output On Timer.

Figure 28 Configuration Page Screenshot

Figure 29 Web Control Page Screenshot

101
Telnet Connection
The power supply can be connected via Ethernet (LAN) interface
using Telnet client with the following port:

Telnet Port: 5024

Windows XP Users
1. Open a command prompt window, which can be found by
going to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command
Prompt. Alternatively, you can click on Start, select Run…,
and type in cmd in the Open: input box. Click OK to open
Command Prompt.
2. At the prompt, type in Telnet<sp><device IP><sp>5024
where:
<sp>is a space.
<device IP>is the IP address you have configured for the
power supply.(see “Ethernet (LAN) Interface” for details)
Example: Telnet [Link] 5024
3. The following screen will be displayed, and users can enter
remote commands at the prompt, such as *IDN?.

102
Windows Vista/7 Users
By default, Telnet client is not installed on the system. There are two
ways to install it manually:
1. Open command prompt:
a. Select Windows Start > All Programs >
Accessories > Command Prompt
b. Select Windows Start and type in cmd in the Search
programs and files box and click on [Link] in the
search list.
Then, type the following in the prompt (Note: there is only 1
space in between “pkgmgr” and “/iu”):
pkgmgr /iu:"TelnetClient"

This will install the Telnet Client, which should take about 20-
30 seconds. When finished, close and re-open Command
prompt and follow the same steps 2 and 3 for “Windows XP
users” instructions above.
103
 2. Alternatively, go to Control Panel, select Programs, and
select Turn Windows features on or off. Wait until the list
gets populated. Then, Click the box next to Telnet Client.
When finished, follow steps 1a or 1b to open Command
Prompt and follow the same steps 2 and 3 from “Windows
XP users” instructions above.

Socket Connection
Socket connection is available for communication via Ethernet (LAN)
interface. The socket port is:

Socket Port: 5025

Users can use this port to open a raw socket connection for sending
remote commands.

4.2 Remote Commands

The instrument supports some SCPI commands and some
instrument specific commands. These commands enable a
computer to remotely communicate and control the power supply
over any of the supported remote interfaces: USB (virtual COM),
RS-232, GPIB, LAN, and RS-485 (specific subset only).

104
Parameter Definitions
Unless otherwise noted, the following table of parameter definitions
applies to all supported remote commands. Commands that have [ ]
around them are optional. For example, [SOURce] is not required
for the SOURCE subsystem.

Table 8- Parameter Definitions

Parameter Description
<Boolean> “ON” or “1”, “OFF” or 0
Data format for integers. Zero, positive, and
<NR1>
negative integer numeric values are valid data.
Data format for floating numeric representation.
<NRf> Zero, positive, and negative floating point numeric
values are all valid data.
Line feed character (0x0A) used for termination of
<LF>
a string
Carriage return character (0x0D))used for
<CR>
termination of a string
<SP> Space character

Remote Commands
All commands are terminated with both a <CR> and <LF>or just
<LF>character. For example, to query the instrument’s ID, this
command is sent:

*IDN?<CR><LF>
*IDN?<LF>

Commands sent without correct termination will return an error

105
and/or will not have a response. All commands listed in this
section do not have the termination character shown, but it is
required for successful communication with the power
[Link] returned strings after a query command will terminate
with both <CR> and <LF> characters. For example, sending
VOLT?command may return:

1.234<CR><LF>

Common SCPI Commands

The following commands are standard SCPI commands (1995)
supported by the instrument.

*IDN?
Description: Query the instrument ID, which includes manufacturer
name, model #, serial #, and firmware version all
separated by commas. The last parameter is a “0”
and is unused.
Example: *IDN?
Return String: B&K PRECISION,9172B,1234567,1.10,0
Format: <manufacturer>,<model>,<serial number>,<firmware
version>,0

*CLS
Description: Clears status and errors
Example: *CLS

*RST
Description: Resets the power supply to its power on state.
Example: *RST

106
*SAV
Description: Saves power supply settings into a memory location
Syntax: *SAV<SP><location>
<location> - Memory location number to save
settings into. 0 – 9 are valid numbers.
Example: *SAV 2
Saves instrument settings into memory location 2.

*RCL
Description: Recalls power supply settings
Syntax: *RCL<SP><location>
<location> - Memory location number to recall
settings from. 0 – 9 are valid numbers.
Example: *RCL 3
Recalls instrument settings from memory location 3.

SCPI Command Subsystem

The following list of commands under each subsystem is supported
by the power supply. Some of them cannot be used without optional
interface cards installed, such as the GPIO subsystem. See the
notes under the command (if available) for details.

GPIO Subsystem
GPIO
:DIRection
Measure Subsystem
MEASure
:CURRent?
:CURR2?
:VOLTage?
:VOLT2?
Memory Subsystem
MEMory
:VSET
107
 :VSET2
:ISET
:ISET2
:SAV
Output Subsystem
OUTput
:ALL
:LIMit
:VOLTage
:VOLT2
:CURRent
:CURR2
:MAX
:VOLTage
:VOLT2
:CURRent
:CURR2
:MIN
:VOLTage
:VOLT2
:CURRent
:CURR2
:SR
:VOLTage
:VOLT2
:CURRent
:CURR2
:STATE?
:PROTection
:CLEar
Channel 2 Output Subsystem (dual channel models only)
OUT2
:STATe?
Program Subsystem
PROGram
:CLEar
:ALL
:NEXT
:REPeat
:RUN
:SAV
:STEP
:CURRent
108
 :CURR2
:ONTime
:VOLTage
:VOLT2
:TOTAl
Protection Subsystem
PROTection
:CLEar
:OCP
:LEVel
:OCP2
:LEVel
:OVP
:LEVel
:OVP2
:LEVel
Source Subsystem
[SOURce]
:CURRent
:PROTection
:LEVel
:CURR2
:PROTection
:LEVel
:VOLTage
:PROTection
:LEVel
:RANGe
:VOLT2
:PROtection
:LEVel
System Subsystem
SYStem
:AVErage
:BEEP
:ERRor?
:EXTernal
:LEVel
:GPIB
:ADDRess
:IP
:ADDRess
:CONFig
:KEY
109
 :LOCK
:LCD
:BL
:LED
:LOW
:CURR
:OUTput
:MODE
:RECall
:DEFault
:REMote
:SERies?
:TRACK
Timer Subsystem
TIMER
:HOUR
:MINute
:SECond

GPIOSubsystem

Note: The optional Analog/DIO interface card must be installed to use all
GPIO commands.

Table 9- Digital I/O Representation

Pin# 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Type I/O I/O I/O I/O GND I/O I/O I/O I/O
Binary Bit # 7 6 5 4 - 3 2 1 0
Decimal
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Representation
I/O – Can be set to either input or output.
GND – Ground pin

110
GPIO
Description: Configures digital I/Opins level to high (1) 5V or low
(0) 0V for output pins. Nothing happens if the pin is
an input.
Syntax: GPIO<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Decimal representation of the binary
value representing the GPIO pins. 0 – 255 are valid.
Example: GPIO 46
Sets pins 7, 4, 3, and 2 to logic high(1) 5 V output if
these pins are configured as output pins using
GPIO:DIRection command (See “Table 9” to convert
the binary representation). Refer to section
“3.13Digital I/O” for more details.

GPIO?
Description: Queries the voltage levels 1 (5 V) or 0 (0 V) of digital
I/O input pins. Output pins return 0.
Query: GPIO?
Return String: 130
Pins 9 and 2 have 5 V input if these pins are
configured as input pins using GPIO:DIRection
command (See “Table 9” to convert the binary
representation). Refer to section “3.13Digital I/O” for
more details.
Format: <NR1>

GPIO:DIRection
Description: Configures the digital I/O pins as inputs or outputs.
Syntax: GPIO<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Decimal representation of the binary
value representing the GPIO pins. 0 – 255 are valid.
Binary value of 1 is output and 0 is input.
Example: GPIO:DIR 82
Sets pins 8, 6, and 2 as outputs and the rest as
inputs (See “Table 9” to convert the binary
representation). Refer to section “3.13Digital I/O” for
more details.

111
GPIO:DIRection?
Description: Queries the digital I/O pins as outputs or
[Link] value of 1 is output and 0 is input.
Query: GPIO:DIR?
Return String: 237
Pins 9, 8, 7, 4, 3, and 1 are outputs and the rest are
inputs. (See “Table 9” to convert the binary
representation). Refer to section “3.13Digital I/O” for
more details.
Format: <NR1>

Measure Subsystem

MEASure:CURRent?
Description: Queries the measured current value
Query: MEAS:CURR?
MEASure:CURRent?
Return String: 1.234
The measured current is 1.234 A.
Format: <NRf>

MEASure:CURR2?
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Queries the measured current value of channel 2
Query: MEAS:CURR2?
Return String: 1.234
The measured current is 1.234 A.
Format: <NRf>

MEASure:VOLTage?
Description: Queries the measured voltage value.
Query: MEAS:VOLT?
MEASure:VOLT?
Return String: 1.234
The measured voltage is 1.234 V.
Format: <NRf>

MEASure:CURR2?
112
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Queries the measured voltage value of channel 2
Query: MEAS:VOLT2?
Return String: 1.234
The measured current is 1.234 V.
Format: <NRf>

Memory Subsystem

MEMory
Description: Selects the memory location/Returns the selected
memory location.
Syntax: MEMory<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Memory location. 0 – 9 are valid.
Example: MEM 2
Selects memory location 2.
Query: MEM?
Return String: 8
Currently selected memory location is 8.
Format: <NR1>

MEMory:VSET
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage value to store at the
selected memory location (use “MEM” command to
select memory location first)
Syntax: MEMory:VSET<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Voltage value. 0 – max. rated voltage
value are valid.
Example: MEM:VSET 4.132
Sets 4.132 V as voltage for the selected memory
location.
Query: MEM:VSET?
Return String: 4.132
Voltage is currently set to 4.132 V in the selected
memory location.
Format: <NRf>

MEMory:VSET2
Note: For dual channel models only.
113
Description: Configures/Queries the second channel voltage value
to store at the selected memory location (use “MEM”
command to select memory location first)
Syntax: MEMory:VSET2<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Voltage value. 0 – max. rated voltage
value are valid.
Example: MEM:VSET2 4.132
Sets 4.132 V as voltage for the selected memory
location.
Query: MEM:VSET2?
Return String: 4.132
Voltage is currently set to 4.132 V in the selected
memory location for channel 2.
Format: <NRf>

MEMory:ISET
Description: Configures/Queries the current value to store at the
selected memory location (use “MEM” command to
select memory location first)
Syntax: MEMory:ISET<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Current value. 0 – max. rated current
value are valid.
Example: MEM:ISET 2.159
Sets 2.159 A as current for the selected memory
location.
Query: MEM:ISET?
Return String: 2.159
Current is currently set to 2.159 A in the selected
memory location.
Format: <NRf>

MEMory:ISET2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the second channel current value
to store at the selected memory location (use “MEM”
command to select memory location first)
Syntax: MEMory:ISET2<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Current value. 0 – max. rated current
value are valid.
Example: MEM:ISET2 2.159
Sets 2.159 A as current for the selected memory

114
 location.
Query: MEM:ISET2?
Return String: 2.159
Current is currently set to 2.159 A in the selected
memory location for channel 2.
Format: <NRf>

MEMory:SAV
Description: Saves the configured voltage and current (using
MEM:VSET and MEM:ISET commands) values into
the selected memory location (using MEM
command).
Syntax: MEMory:SAV
Example: MEM:SAV

Output Subsystem

OUTput
Description: Configure/Query the state of the output.
Syntax: OUTput<SP><Boolean>
OUTput?
Example: OUT 1
OUT ON
Enables the output. For dual channel models, it
enables output on channel 1.
Query: OUT?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

OUTput:ALL
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Enables/Disables all channel output. This will
override the OUTPUT MODE settings in the SYSTEM
SETTINGS menu.
Syntax: OUTput:ALL<SP><Boolean>
Example: OUT:ALL 1
Enables both channels’ outputs.

115
OUTput:LIMit:VOLTage
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage maximum limit. For
dual channel models, this will configure voltage limit
for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:LIMit:VOLTage<SP><voltage>
OUTput:LIMit:VOLTage?
<voltage> - Voltage value. 0 – max. rated voltage
value are valid.
Example: OUT:LIM:VOLT 70.123
Sets the voltage maximum limit to 70.123 V.
Query: OUT:LIM:VOLT?
Return String: 70.123
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:LIMit:VOLT2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage maximum limit for
channel 2.
Syntax: OUTput:LIMit:VOLT2<SP><voltage>
OUTput:LIMit:VOLT2?
<voltage> - Voltage value. 0 – max. rated voltage
value are valid.
Example: OUT:LIM:VOLT2 70.123
Sets the voltage maximum limit to 70.123 V for
channel 2.
Query: OUT:LIM:VOLT2?
Return String: 70.123
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:LIMit:CURRent
Description: Configures/Queries the current maximum limit. For
dual channel models, this will configure current limit
for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:LIMit:CURRent<SP><current>
OUTput:LIMit:CURRent?
<current> - Current value. 0 – max. rated current
value are valid.
Example: OUT:LIM:CURR 3.456
Sets the current maximum limit to 3.456 A.
116
Query: OUT:LIM:CURR?
Return String: 3.456
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:LIMit:CURR2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the current maximum limit for
channel 2.
Syntax: OUTput:LIMit:CURR2<SP><current>
OUTput:LIMit:CURR2?
<current> - Current value. 0 – max. rated current
value are valid.
Example: OUT:LIM:CURR 3.456
Sets the current maximum limit to 3.456 A.
Query: OUT:LIM:CURR?
Return String: 3.456
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:MAX:VOLTage
Note: See OUTput:LIMit:VOLTage command.

OUTput:MAX:VOLT2
Note: See OUTput:LIMit:VOLT2 command.

OUTput:MAX:CURRent
Note: See OUTput:LIMit:CURRent command.

OUTput:MAX:CURR2
Note: See OUTput:LIMit:CURR2 command.
OUTput:MIN:VOLTage
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage minimum limit. For
dual channel models, this will configure voltage limit
for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:MIN:VOLTage<SP><voltage>

117
 OUTput:MIN:VOLTage?
<voltage> - Voltage value. Less than max. voltage
set limit
Example: OUT:MIN:VOLT 0
Sets the voltage minimum limit to 0 V.
Query: OUT:MIN:VOLT?
Return String: 0
Format: <NRf>
OUTput:MIN:VOLT2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage minimum limit for
channel 2.
Syntax: OUTput:MIN:VOLT2<SP><voltage>
OUTput:MIN:VOLT2?
<voltage> - Voltage value. Less than max. voltage
set limit value are valid.
Example: OUT:MIN:VOLT2 0
Sets the voltage set minimum limit to 0 V for channel
2.
Query: OUT:MIN:VOLT2?
Return String: 0
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:MIN:CURRent
Description: Configures/Queries the current minimum limit. For
dual channel models, this will configure current limit
for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:MIN:CURRent<SP><current>
OUTput:MIN:CURRent?
<current> - Current value. Less than max.
currentlimit value are valid.
Example: OUT:MIN:CURR 0
Sets the current minimum limit to 0 A.
Query: OUT:MIN:CURR?
Return String: 0
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:MIN:CURR2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the current minimum limit for
channel 2.
118
Syntax: OUTput:MIN:CURR2<SP><current>
OUTput:MIN:CURR2?
<current> - Current value. Less than max. current
limit value are valid.
Example: OUT:MIN:CURR2 0
Sets the current minimum limit to 0 A.
Query: OUT:MIN:CURR2?
Return String: 0
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:SR:VOLTage
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage slew rate in unit of
V/ms. For dual channel models, this will configure the
slew rate for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:SR:VOLTage<SP><voltage>
OUTput:SR:VOLTage?

<voltage> - Voltage value. 0 – max. voltage slew

rate value. See “Slew Rate Configuration” in section
3.5.
Example: OUT:SR:VOLT 7.000
Sets the voltage slew rate to 7.000 V/ms
Query: OUT:SR:VOLT?
Return String: 7.000
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:SR:VOLT2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage slew rate for channel
2.
Syntax: OUTput:SR:VOLT2<SP><voltage>
OUTput:SR:VOLT2?

<voltage> - Voltage value. 0 – max. voltage slew

rate value. See “Slew Rate Configuration” in section
3.5.
Example: OUT:SR:VOLT2 7.000
Sets the voltage slew rate to 7.000 V/ms
Query: OUT:SR:VOLT2?
Return String: 7.000
Format: <NRf>

119
OUTput:SR:CURRent
Description: Configures/Queries the current slew rate in unit of
A/ms. For dual channel models, this will configure the
slew rate for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:SR:CURRent<SP><current>
OUTput:SR:CURRent?
<current> - Current value. 0 – max. current slew rate
value. See “Slew Rate Configuration” in section 3.5.
Example: OUT:SR:CURR 1.000
Sets the current slew rate to 1.000 A/ms.
Query: OUT:SR:CURR?
Return String: 1.000
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:SR:CURR2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the current slew rate for channel
2.
Syntax: OUTput:SR:CURR2<SP><current>
OUTput:SR:CURR2?
<current> - Current value. 0 – max. current slew rate
value. See “Slew Rate Configuration” in section 3.5.
Example: OUT:SR:CURR2 1.000
Sets the current slew rate to 1.000 A/ms.
Query: OUT:SR:CURR2?
Return String: 1.000
Format: <NRf>

OUTput:STATe?
Description: Queries the output mode. For dual channel models,
this will query for channel 1.
Syntax: OUTput:STATe?
Query: OUT:STAT?
Return String: CV
Format: CV or CC

OUT2 Subsystem
120
The commands in this subsystem are for dual channel models only.

OUT2
Description: Configure/Query the state of the output for channel 2.
Syntax: OUT2<SP><Boolean>
OUT2?
Example: OUT2 1
OUT2 ON
Enables the output for channel 2.
Query: OUT2?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

OUT2:STATe?
Description: Queries the output mode for channel 2.
Syntax: OUT2:STATe?
Query: OUT2:STAT?
Return String: CV
Format: CV or CC

Program Subsystem
The commands in this subsystem are for the program sequence
function. Examples on how to use these commands to create
sequences can be found in “4.3Sequence Programming”.

PROGram
Description: Selects the program location/Returns the selected
program location for storing programming sequence.
Syntax: PROG<SP><decimal>
<decimal> - Program location. 1 – 10 are valid.
Example: PROG 2
Selects program location 2.
Query: PROG?
Return String: 5
Currently selected program location is 5.

121
Format: <NR1>

PROGram:CLEar
Description: Clears all programmed sequences stored in the
selected program location (Select using PROG
command)
Syntax: PROGram:CLEar
Example: PROG:CLE
Clears the programmed sequence at the selected
program location.

PROGram:CLEar:ALL
Description: Clears all programmed sequences stored in all 10
program locations.
Syntax: PROGram:CLEar:ALL
Example: PROG:CLE:ALL
Clears all the programmed sequences in all 10
program locations.

PROGram:NEXT
Description: Configures/Queries the next program location’s
sequence to run.
Syntax: PROGram:NEXT<SP><location>
PROGram:NEXT?
<location> - 1 – 10 are valid program locations. Use
0 to end if no further sequences will be run after the
current sequence.
Example: PROG:NEXT 5
Runs the set of sequences in program location 5 after
the current sequence is finished.
Query: PROG:NEXT?
Return String: 3
Currently configured to run sequence in program
location 3 after current sequence ends.
Format: <NR1>

PROGram:REPeat
Description: Configures/Queries the number of times to repeat the
122
 selected programmed sequence.
Syntax: PROGram:REPeat<SP><number>
PROGram:REPeat?
<number> - 1 – 50000 (max.)
Example: PROG:REP 10
Runs the set of sequences in the selected program
location 10 times.
Query: PROG:REP?
Return String: 300
Currently set to repeat the sequence 300 times.
Format: <NR1>

PROGram:RUN
Description: Configure/Query the state of the program.
Syntax: PROGram:RUN<SP><Boolean>
PROG:RUN?
Example: PROG 1
PROG ON
Enables the programmed sequence to start.
Query: PROG:RUN?
Return String: OFF
Currently the selected program sequence is not
running.
Format: ON or OFF

PROGram:SAV
Description: Saves the programmed sequence into the selected
memory location (Select using the PROG command)
Syntax: PROGram:SAV
Example: PROG:SAV

PROGram:STEP
Description: Configures/Queries the step number in the sequence
to setup.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP<SP><number>
PROGram:STEP?
<number> - 1 – 150 (max.)
Example: PROG:STEP 10
Selects step number 10 for setup.
123
Query: PROG:STEP?
Return String: 30
Currently selecting step 30 in the sequence for setup.
Format: <number>

PROGram:STEP:CURRent
Description: Configures/Queries the current setting for the
selected step (use PROGram:STEP command to
select step). For dual channel models, this will be for
channel 1.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP:CURRent<SP><current>
PROGram:STEP:CURRent?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: PROG:STEP:CURR 1.234
Set 1.234 A as current setting for the selected step in
the program sequence.
Query: PROG:STEP:CURR?
Return String: 1.234
Format: <NRf>

PROGram:STEP:CURR2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the current setting for the
selected step (use PROGram:STEP command to
select step) for channel 2.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP:CURR2<SP><current>
PROGram:STEP:CURR2?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: PROG:STEP:CURR2 1.234
Set 1.234 A as current setting for the selected step in
the program sequence for channel 2.
Query: PROG:STEP:CURR2?
Return String: 1.234
Format: <NRf>
124
PROGram:STEP:ONTime
Description: Configures/Queries the step timing (the length of
period to hold the settings) of the selected sequence.
Unit is in seconds.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP:ONTime<SP><seconds>
PROGram:STEP:ONTime?
<seconds> - 0.010 – 2000 (max.)
Example: PROG:STEP:ONT 0.050
Set the selected step time to 0.050 seconds (50 ms).
Query: PROG:STEP:ONT?
Return String: 0.050
Format: <seconds>
PROGram:STEP:VOLTage
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage setting for the
selected step (use PROGram:STEP command to
select step). For dual channel models, this will be for
channel 1.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP:VOLTage<SP><voltage>
PROGram:STEP:VOLTage?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: PROG:STEP:VOLT 1.234
Set 1.234 V as voltage setting for the selected step in
the program sequence.
Query: PROG:STEP:VOLT?
Return String: 1.234
Format: <NRf>

PROGram:STEP:VOLT2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage setting for the
selected step (use PROGram:STEP command to
select step) for channel 2.
Syntax: PROGram:STEP:VOLT2<SP><voltage>
PROGram:STEP:VOLT2?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: PROG:STEP:VOLT2 1.234
Set 1.234 V as voltage setting for the selected step in
the program sequence.
Query: PROG:STEP:VOLT2?
Return String: 1.234
125
Format: <NRf>

PROGram:TOTAl
Description: Configures/Queries the total number of step numbers
for the program sequence.
Syntax: PROGram:TOTAl<SP><number>
PROGram:TOTAl?
<number> - 2 -150 (max.)
Example: PROG:TOTA 100
Setup a program sequence with 100 steps.
Query: PROG:TOTA?
Return String: 30
Currently the sequence will have 30 steps for setup.
Format: <NR1>

Protection Subsystem

PROTection
Note: See STATUS command in the next section.

PROTection:CLEar
Description: Clears/resets all latched protection (when protection
is flagged/tripped)
Syntax: PROTection:CLEar
Example: PROT:CLE

PROTection:OCP
Description: Configure/Query the state of OCP (over current
protection).
Syntax: PROTection:OCP<SP><Boolean>
PROT:OCP?
Example: PROT 1
PROT ON
Enables OCP
Query: PROT:OCP?
Return String: OFF
Currently OCP is disabled.
Format: ON or OFF
126
PROTection:OCP:LEVel
Description: Configures/Queries the current level for OCP.
Syntax: PROTection:OCP:LEVel<SP><current>
PROTection:OCP:LEVel?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: PROT:OCP:LEV 3.000
Set 3.000 A as the OCP current level.
Query: PROT:OCP:LEV?
Return String: 3.000
Format: <NRf>

PROTection:OCP2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the state of OCP channel 2.
Syntax: PROTection:OCP2<SP><Boolean>
PROT:OCP2?
Example: PROT 1
PROT ON
Enables OCP on channel 2.
Query: PROT:OCP?
Return String: OFF
Currently OCP for channel 2 is disabled.
Format: ON or OFF

PROTection:OCP2:LEVel
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the current level for OCP for
channel 2.
Syntax: PROTection:OCP2:LEVel<SP><current>
PROTection:OCP2:LEVel?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: PROT:OCP2:LEV 3.000
Set 3.000 A as the OCP current level for channel 2.
Query: PROT:OCP2:LEV?
Return String: 3.000
Format: <NRf>

127
PROTection:OVP
Description: Configure/Query the state of OVP (over voltage
protection).
Syntax: PROTection:OVP<SP><Boolean>
PROT:OVP?
Example: PROT 1
PROT ON
Enables OVP
Query: PROT:OVP?
Return String: OFF
Currently OVP is disabled.
Format: ON or OFF

PROTection:OVP:LEVel
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage level for OVP.
Syntax: PROTection:OVP:LEVel<SP><voltage>
PROTection:OVP:LEVel?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: PROT:OVP:LEV 20.000
Set 20.000 V as the OVP voltage level.
Query: PROT:OVP:LEV?
Return String: 20.000
Format: <NRf>

PROTection:OVP2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configure/Query the state of OVP (over voltage
protection) for channel 2.
Syntax: PROTection:OVP2<SP><Boolean>
PROT:OVP2?
Example: PROT 1
PROT ON
Enables OVP for channel 2.
Query: PROT:OVP2?
Return String: OFF
Currently OVP is disabled for channel 2.
Format: ON or OFF

128
PROTection:OVP2:LEVel
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage level for OVP for
channel 2.
Syntax: PROTection:OVP2:LEVel<SP><voltage>
PROTection:OVP2:LEVel?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: PROT:OVP2:LEV 20.000
Set 20.000 V as the OVP voltage level for channel 2.
Query: PROT:OVP2:LEV?
Return String: 20.000
Format: <NRf>

Source Subsystem

[SOURce]:CURRent
Description: Configures/Queries the ISET current setting. For dual
channel models, use [SOURce]:CURR2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: [SOURce]:CURRent<SP><current>
[SOURce]:CURRent?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: SOUR:CURR 1.456
Set current to 1.456 A.
Query: SOUR:CURR?
Return String: 1.456
Format: <NRf>

[SOURce]:CURRent:PROTection
Note: See PROTection:OCP command.

[SOURce]:CURRent:PROTection:LEVel
Note: See PROTection:OCP:LEVel command.

[SOURce]:CURR2
Note: For dual channel models only.
129
Description: Configures/Queries the ISET current setting for
channel 2.
Syntax: [SOURce]:CURR2<SP><current>
[SOURce]:CURR2?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current.
Example: SOUR:CURR21.456
Set current of channel 2 to 1.456 A.
Query: SOUR:CURR2?
Return String: 1.456
Format: <NRf>

[SOURce]:CURR2:PROTection
Note: See PROTection:OCP2 command.

[SOURce]:CURR2:PROTection:LEVel
Note: See PROTection:OCP2:LEVel command.
[SOURce]:VOLTage
Description: Configures/Queries the VSET voltage setting. For
dual channel models, use [SOURce]:VOLT2
command for channel 2.
Syntax: [SOURce]:VOLTage<SP><voltage>
[SOURce]:VOLTage?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: SOUR:VOLT20.000
Set voltage to 20.000 V.
Query: SOUR:VOLT?
Return String: 20.000
Format: <NRf>

[SOURce]:VOLTage:PROTection
Note: See PROTection:OVP command.

[SOURce]:VOLTage:PROTection:LEVel
Note: See PROTection:OVP:LEVel command.
130
[SOURce]:VOLTage:RANGe
Note: This command is for models 9184B and 9185B only.
Description: Configures/Queries the voltage range.
Syntax: [SOURce]:VOLTage:RANGe<SP><range>
[SOURce]:VOLTage:RANGe?
<range> - 0 or 1 / LOW or HIGH
Example: SOUR:VOLT:RANG LOW
SOUR:VOLT:RANG 0
Set the supply to the low voltage range.
Query: SOUR:VOLT:RANG?
Return String: LOW
Format: <range>

[SOURce]:VOLT2
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries theVISET voltage setting for
channel 2.
Syntax: [SOURce]:VOLT2<SP><voltage>
[SOURce]:VOLT2?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage.
Example: SOUR:VOLT220.000
Set voltage of channel 2 to 20.000 V.
Query: SOUR:VOLT2?
Return String: 20.000
Format: <NRf>

[SOURce]:VOLT2:PROTection
Note: See PROTection:OVP2 command.

[SOURce]:VOLT2:PROTection:LEVel
Note: See PROTection:OVP2:LEVel command.

System Subsystem

SYStem:AVErage
Description: Configures/Queries the measurement average
131
 setting.
Syntax: [SYStem]:AVErage<SP><number>
[SYStem]:AVErage?
<number> - 1 – 10 are valid numbers.
Example: SYS:AVE2
Set measurement average to 2.
Query: SYS:AVE?
Return String: 2
Format: <NR1>

SYStem:BEEP
Description: Configure/Query the state of the key sound.
Syntax: SYStem:BEEP<SP><Boolean>
SYStem:BEEP?
Example: SYS:BEEP 0
SYS:BEEP OFF
Disables the key sound.
Query: SYS:BEEP?
Return String: OFF
Key sound is disabled.
Format: ON or OFF

SYStem:ERRor?
Description: Queries the error from the error queue.
Syntax: SYStem:ERRor?
Return Syntax: <number> - 0 – 4. Refer to their description in the
table below.
Query: SYS:ERR?
Return String: 0
No errors.
Format: <number>

Error Code Description

0 No Error
132
 1 Command Error
2 Execution Error
3 Query Error
4 Input Range Error

SYStem:EXTernal
Description: Configure/Query the state/type of the analog external
control.
Syntax: SYStem:EXTernal<SP><type>
SYStem:EXTernal?
<type> - 0/OFF, 1/VOLT, 2/RES
Example: SYS:EXT 1
SYS:EXT VOLT
Set to use voltage source for external analog control
Query: SYS:EXT?
Return String: 2
Currently set to resistance external control.
Format: <type>

SYStem:EXTernal:LEVel
Description: Configure/Query voltage scale to use for external
voltage control.
Syntax: SYStem:EXTernal:LEVel<SP><scale>
SYStem:EXTernal:LEVel?
<scale> - 0/V10 or 1/V5
Example: SYS:EXT:LEV V10
SYS:EXT:LEV 0
Selects 0-10 V scale to use for external voltage
control.
Query: SYS:EXT?
Return String: 0
0-10 V scale is selected.
Format: <scale>

SYStem:GPIB:ADDRess
Description: Configure/Query the GPIB address.
Syntax: SYStem:GPIB:ADDRess<SP><address>
SYStem:GPIB:ADDRess?
<address> - 1 – 30 are valid numbers.
133
Example: SYS:GPIB:ADDR 6
Sets the GPIB address to 6.
Query: SYS:GPIB:ADDR?
Return String: 6
Format: <NR1>

SYStem:IP:ADDRess
Description: Configure/Query the LAN IP address
Syntax: SYStem:IP:ADDRess<SP><ip>
SYStem:IP:ADDRess?
<ip> - NR1.NR1.NR1.NR1. NR1 can be from 000 –
255.
Example: SYS:IP:ADDR [Link]
Sets the IP address to [Link]
Query: SYS:IP:ADDR?
Return String: [Link]
Format: <NR1>.<NR1>.<NR1>.<NR1>

SYStem:IP:CONFig
Description: Configure/Query the configuration of the IP.
Syntax: SYStem:IP:CONFig<SP><config>
SYStem:IP:CONfig?
<config> - 0/STATic
Example: SYS:IP:CONF STAT
SYS:IP:CONF 0
Set the IP configuration to STATIC.
Query: SYS:IP:CONF?
Return String: 0
Format: <config>

SYStem:KEY:LOCK
Description: Configures/Queries the state of the key lock.
Syntax: SYStem:KEY:LOCK<SP><Boolean>
SYStem:KEY:LOCK?
Example: SYS:KEY:LOCK ON
Enables key lock.
Query: SYS:KEY?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF
134
SYStem:LCD:BL
Description: Configures/Queries the LCD backlight state
Syntax: SYStem:LCD:BL<SP><state>
SYStem:LCD:BL?
<state> - 0/ON, 1/OFF1, 2/OFF5, 3/OFF10, 4/OFF30
(For Always ON, ON 1 minutes, ON 5 minutes, ON 10
minutes, ON 30 minutes respectively)
Example: SYS:LCD:BL
Enables key lock.
Query: SYS:KEY?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

SYStem:LED
Description: Configures/Queries the state of LED test mode.
Syntax: SYStem:LED<SP><Boolean>
SYStem:LED?
Example: SYS:LED ON
Enables LED mode.
Query: SYS:LED?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

SYStem:LOW:CURR
Description: For models 9184B and 9185B only.
Configures/Queries the state of Low Current mode.
Syntax: SYStem:LOW:CURR<SP><Boolean>
SYStem:LOW:CURR?
Example: SYS:LOW:CURR ON
Enables low current mode.
Query: SYS:LOW:CURR?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF
135
SYStem:OUTput:MODE
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the state of the output mode.
Syntax: SYStem:OUTput:MODE<SP><state>
SYStem:OUTput:MODE?
<state> - 0/MULTI or 1/SINGLE
Example: SYS:OUT:MODE 0
SYS:OUT:MODE MULTI
Sets output mode to MULTI.
Query: SYS:OUT:MODE?
Return String: MULTI
Format: SINGLE or MULTI

SYStem:RECall:DEFault
Description: Resets back to default factory settings.
Syntax: SYStem:RECall:DEFault
Example: SYS:REC:DEF

SYStem:REMote
Description: Configures/Queries the selected remote interface
Syntax: SYStem:REMote<SP><interface>
SYStem:REMote?
<interface> - USB, GPIB, ETHERNET
Example: SYS:REM GPIB
Changes remote interface to GPIB.
Query: SYS:REM?
Return String: GPIB
Format: <interface>

SYStem:SERies?

136
Description: Queries the serial number of the instrument.
Syntax: SYStem:SERies?
Query: SYS:SER?
Return String: 123D12101
Serial number of the instrument is 123D12101.

SYStem:TRACK
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the state of tracking mode.
Syntax: SYStem:TRACK<SP><Boolean>
SYStem:TRACK?
Example: SYS:TRACK 1
SYS:TRACK ON
Enables tracking mode.
Query: SYS:TRACK?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

Timer Subsystem

TIMER
Description: Configures/Queries the state of the output timer
function. The timer starts once output is enabled.
Syntax: TIMER<SP><Boolean>
TIMER?
Example: TIMER ON
TIMER 1
Enables timer output.
Query: TIMER?
Return String: ON
Format: ON or OFF

TIMER:HOUR
Description: Configures/Queries the output timer hours.
Syntax: TIMER:HOUR<SP><hour>
TIMER:HOUR?
137
 <hour> - 0 - 999
Example: TIMER:HOUR 100
Sets the output timer to 100 hours.
Query: TIMER:HOUR?
Return String: 100
Format: <NR1>

TIMER:MINute
Description: Configures/Queries the output timer hours.
Syntax: TIMER:MINute<SP><hour>
TIMER:MINute?
<hour> - 0 - 59
Example: TIMER:MIN 40
Sets the output timer to 40 minutes.
Query: TIMER:MIN?
Return String: 40
Format: <NR1>

TIMER:SECond
Description: Configures/Queries the output timer seconds.
Syntax: TIMER:SECond<SP><hour>
TIMER:SECond?
<hour> - 0 – 59
Example: TIMER:SEC 20
Sets the output timer to 20 seconds.
Query: TIMER:SEC?
Return String: 20
Format: <NR1>

Standard Commands
The following commands are instrument specific and apply to all
models, with the exception of some that apply to dual channel
models only (see the notes under some of the commands for
details). Most of these commands function the same way as most of
138
the SCPI commands described in the previous section. For
example, MEASure:CURRent? functions the same as IOUT?.

ADDRess
Description: Configures/Queries the GPIB address
Syntax: ADDRess<SP><address>
ADDRess?
<address> - GPIB address. 0 – 30 are valid
addresses.
Example: ADDR 10
Sets the GPIB address to 10.
Query: ADDR?
Return String: 10
Format: <NR1>

BEEP
Description: Configures/Queries the key sound state
Syntax: BEEP<SP><state>
BEEP?
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
Example: BEEP ON
Turns on key beep.
Query: BEEP?
Return String: ON
Format: <state>

CLR
Description: Clear protection status
Example: CLR

CHANnel
Note: This command is for dual channel models only.

139
Description: Selects the channel to configure.
Syntax: CHANnel<SP><channel>
CHANnel?
<channel> - 1 or 2.
Example: CHAN 2
Selects channel 2.
Query: CHAN?
Return String: 1
Format: <channel>

CURRent/CURR2
Note: CURR2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the ISET current setting. For
dual channel models, use CURR2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: CURRent<SP><current>
CURR2<SP><current>
CURRent?
CURR2?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current output
Example: CURR2 1.234
Sets the second channel ISET current to 1.234 A on a
dual channel model.
Query: CURR?
Return String: 1.234
Format: <NRf>

ERRor?
Description: Queries system errors
Syntax: ERRor?
Example: ERR?
Return String: 0
Refer to the table below for error description.
Format: <NR1>

Error Code Description

0 No Error
1 Command Error
2 Execution Error

140
 3 Query Error
4 Input Range Error

IOUT?/IOUT2?
Note: IOUT2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Queries the measured/readback current output value.
For dual channel models, use IOUT2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: IOUT?
IOUT2?
Example: IOUT?
Return String: 2.156
Output current measured is 2.156 A.
Format: <NRf>

ISET/ISET2
Description: This command is the same as CURRent/CURR2
command. See CURRent/CURR2 for details.
Example: ISET?
ISET 1.234
Format: <NRf>

LOCK
Description: Configures the key lock state
Syntax: LOCK<SP><state>
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
Example: LOCK 1
Turns on key lock.

MODEL?
141
Description: Queries the model number
Syntax: MODEL?
Example: MODEL?
Return String: 9174B
Format: <model>

OCP/OCP2
Note: OCP2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection state.
For dual channel models, use OCP2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: OCP<SP><state>
OCP2<SP><state>
OCP?
OCP2?
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
Example: OCP2 ON
Enables OCP for channel 2 on a dual channel model.
Query: OCP?
OCP2?
Return String: OFF
Format: <state>

OISET/OISET2
Note: OISET2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection value.
For dual channel models, use OISET2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: OISET<SP><current>
OISET2<SP><current>
OISET?
OISET2?
<current> - 0 – max. rated current
Example: OISET 9.124
Sets OCP protection to 9.124 A .
Query: OISET?
OISET2?
Return String: 9.124
OCP is set to 9.124 A.
142
Format: <NRf>

OUT/OUT2
Note: OUT2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the output state. For dual
channel models, use OUT2 command to
configure/query channel 2 output state.
Syntax: OUT<SP><state>
OUT2<SP><state>
OUT?
OUT2?
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
Example: OUT 1
Turns ON (enables) the output
Query: OUT?
OUT2?
Return String: ON
Output is enabled.
Format: <state>

OUTM/OUTM?
Note: This command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the output mode for multi or
single output control for dual channel models.
Syntax: OUTM<SP><mode>
OUTM?
<mode> - SINGLE or 1 for single channel output
control
- MULTI or 0 for dual channel output control
(control both channels’ output state
simultaneously)
Example: OUTM 1
Sets the output mode to SINGLE
Query: OUTM?
143
Return String: SINGLE
Format: <mode>

OVP/OVP2
Note: OVP2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection state.
For dual channel models, use OVP2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: OVP<SP><state>
OVP2<SP><state>
OVP?
OVP2?
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
Example: OVP2 ON
Enables OVP for channel 2 on a dual channel model.
Query: OVP?
OVP2?
Return String: ON
Format: <state>

OVSET/OVSET2
Note: OVSET2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection value.
For dual channel models, use OVSET2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: OVSET<SP><voltage>
OVSET2<SP><voltage>
OVSET?
OVSET2?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage
Example: OVSET 70.000
Sets OVP protection to 70.000 V
Query: OVSET?
OVSET2?
144
 Return String: 70.000
OVP is set to 70.000 V
Format: <NRf>

STATUS?
Description: Queries the instrument status
Syntax: STATUS?
Example: STATUS?
Return String: 000000
No OVP, OCP, OTP, and other failure or flagged
status. Outputs are off, LCD backlight always ON,
and output mode set to MULTI.
Format: <byte2><byte1><byte0>
Refer to the table and description below for
details on the returned data.
When STATUS?command is used, the power supply will return an
ASCII string of 6 alphanumeric characters, which is a representation
of 3-bytes data encoded in hex. The binary representation of each
byte indicates different statuses of the power supply. See the table
below:

Byte
Bits Description Bit Value Description
#
2 0-7 System Reserved -
7 Channel 1 OVP flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
6 Channel 2 OVP flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
5 Channel 1 OCP flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
4 Channel 2 OCP flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
1
3 Fan failure flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
2 AC range error flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
1 OTP flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag
0 NTC flag status 1 is flag, 0 is no flag

145
 1 is ON, 0 is OFF
7 Channel 1 OVP On/Off status
1 is ON, 0 is OFF
6 Channel 2 OVP On/Off status
1 is ON, 0 is OFF
5 Channel 1 OCP On/Off status
1 is ON, 0 is OFF
4 Channel 2 OCP On/Off status
0 1 is ON, 0 is OFF
3 Channel 1 output On/Off status
1 is ON, 0 is OFF
2 Channel 2 output On/Off status
0 – Always ON, 1 –
1 LCD backlight On/Off Status
Timed
0 Output mode Single/Multi status
0 – MULTI, 1 – SINGLE

Example 2:
Return string: 00008C
Byte 2: 0
Byte 1: 0
Byte 0: 8C
8C = 10001100 (bits 7 – bit 0)
Representation:
- Channel 1 OVP status is ON
- Channel 1 output is ON
- Channel 2 output is ON
- LCD backlight is ALWAYS ON
- Output mode is MULTI
- No protection flag status (instrument is operating normally)

TRACK
Note: This command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the tracking mode state.
Syntax: TRACK<SP><state>
TRACK?
<state> - ON or 1 to turn ON
- OFF or 0 to turn OFF
146
Example: TRACK ON
Turns ON (enables) tracking mode.
Query: TRACK?
Return String: ON
Format: <state>

VERsion?
Description: Queries the firmware version
Syntax: VERsion?
Example: VERsion?
Return String: 1.10
Format: <NRf>

VOLTage/VOLT2
Note: VOLT2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Configures/Queries the VSET voltage setting. For
dual channel models, use VOLT2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: VOLTage<SP><voltage>
VOLT2<SP><voltage>
VOLTage?
VOLT2?
<voltage> - 0 – max. rated voltage output
Example: VOLT2 12.000
Sets the second channel VSET voltage to 12.000 V
on a dual channel model.
Query: VOLT?
Return String: 12.000
Format: <NRf>

VOUT?/VOUT2?
Note: VOUT2 command is for dual channel models only.
Description: Queries the measured/readback voltage output value.
For dual channel models, use VOUT2 command for
channel 2.
Syntax: VOUT?
VOUT2?
Example: VOUT?
Return String: 10.002
Output voltage measured is 10.002 V.
147
 Format: <NRf>

VSET/VSET2
Description: This command is the same as VOLTage/VOLT2
command. See VOLTage/VOLT2 for details.
Example: VSET?
VSET 12.345
Format: <NRf>

4.3 Sequence Programming

The power supply has the ability to store custom programmed
sequences and run them, as described in “3.11Sequence Program
Mode”. This section provides some examples of how to create
some sequences using remote commands described in the previous
section.

Examples

Example 1:

To create an output sequence like above, send the following list of

148
commands in order:

PROG 1 Choose program number

PROG:CLE Clear program 1 data
PROG:REP 0 No repeat (repeat one time for “1”)
PROG:TOTA 8 Set program 1 to have 8 steps in total
PROG:STEP 1 Following 3 settings are for step 1
PROG:STEP:CURR 1 Set output current to 1 ampere
PROG:STEP:VOLT 5 Output voltage is set to 5 volts
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1 Output ON time is set to 0.1 sec
PROG:STEP 2 Following 3 settings are for step 2
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 10
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 3 Choose step 3
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 15
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 4 Choose step 4
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 20
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 5 Choose step 5
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 15
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 6 Choose step 6
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT
PROG:STEP:VOLT 10
10
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 7 Choose step 7
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 5
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
PROG:STEP 8 Choose step 8
149
 PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 0
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.1
Select next program to run after program
PROG:NEXT 0 1 is complete, 0 means
Stop
PROG:SAV After edit, use Save command to store
program 1 in the hardware
PROG 1 Select program 1
PROG:RUN ON Use RUN ON command to execute
Example 2:

To create an output sequence like above, send the following list of

commands in order:

PROG 2 Choose program number

PROG:CLE Clear program 2 data
PROG:REP 0 No repeat after running this program
PROG:TOTA 8 Set program 2 to have 8 steps in total
PROG:STEP 1 Settings for step 1
PROG:STEP:CURR 2 Set output current to 2 amperes
PROG:STEP:VOLT 20 Set output voltage to 20 volts
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5 Set output ON time to 0.5 sec
PROG:STEP 2 Choose step 2
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 15

150
 PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 3 Settings for step 3
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 20
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 4 Choose step 4
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 10
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 5 Choose step 5
PROG:STEP:CURR 1
PROG:STEP:VOLT 20
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 6 Choose step 6
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 5
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 7 Choose step 7
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 20
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:STEP 8 Choose step 8
PROG:STEP:CURR 2
PROG:STEP:VOLT 0
PROG:STEP:ONT 0.5
PROG:NEXT 0 Select next program to run after
program 2 is complete, 0 means stop
PROG:SAV After edit, use Save command to store
program 2 in the hardware
PROG 2 Select program 2
PROG:RUN ON Use RUN ON command to execute

Example 3:

151
To execute example 2 sequence after example 1 sequence, then
modify sequence of example 1 with NEXT 2 command. Send the
following steps to modify and execute the program to generate a
waveform sequence shown above.

PROG 1 Select program 1

PROG:NEXT 2 Change the NEXT command from
NEXT 0 to NEXT 2
PROG:SAV After edit is complete use Save
command to store changes in the
hardware
PROG 1 Select program 1
PROG:RUN ON Use RUN ON command to execute

4.4 Multi Unit Programming

The instrument can be connected together with multiple units via
RS-485 interface, as described in section “3.2Remote Interface
Setup” under “RS-485 Interface” and be controlled via a single USB
connection between the PC and one of the power supplies. The
setup is illustrated below:

152
 Figure 30- Multi Unit Programming

The following describes the specific commands that may be used to

communicate with each connected instrument with this specific
setup.

Remote Commands via USB

The following lists all the available commands to control multiple
power supplies with the multi unit programming configuration
illustrated in “Figure 30”. For all configuration commands (except for
commands listed under Synchronous Control Commandssection),
the instrument will return a string “OK” to indicate command sent
successfully. If an error occurs, it will return an error. See the “
Error List” section for details.

System Control Command

This set of commands is used to select the instrument (based on

their address) to control and to obtain/set its system settings.

153
CADR
CCLS
CRST
CIDN?
CREV
CSN?
CST?
CCLR

CADR
Note: This command must be used first prior to any other
commands to control individually addressed power
supplies with RS-485 connection.
Description: Selects the address of the power supply to be
controlled.
Syntax: CADR<SP><address>
<address> - 1 – 31 are valid numbers.
Example: CADR 5
This will select power supply with address = 5.

CCLS
Description: Clears the status of the selected power supply.
Syntax: CCLS

CRST
Description: Resets the selected power supply to a known state.
Syntax: CRST

CIDN?
Description: Queries the IDN information of the selected power
154
 supply. This command functions the same as *IDN?,
however this is used in a multi unit programming
setup for the selected power supply.
Query: CIDN?
Return String: B&K PRECISION,9171B,SN#,1.10,0

CREV?
Description: Queries the firmware version of the selected power
supply.
Query: CREV?
Return String: 1.10

CSN?
Description: Queries the serial number of the selected power
supply.
Query: CSN?
Return String: 123D19238
Serial number is 123D19238.
CST?
Description: Queries the status of the selected power supply. This
command functions the same as STATUS?
command, however this is used in a multi unit
programming setup for the selected power supply.
Query: CST?

CCLR
Description: Clears the protection flag/trip of the selected power
supply.
Syntax: CCLR

Output Control Command

This set of commands controls the outputs of the selected

instrument (based on their address). Use CADR
command(described in previous section) first to select the address
of the unit you want to control before using any of these commands
155
to control that unit’s output.

CPV/CPV2
CMV?/CMV2?
CPC/CPC2
CMC?/CMC2?
CDVC?/CDVC2?
COUT/COUT2
COUTA
COV/COV2
COVP/COVP2
COC/COC2
COCP/COCP2
CMODE?/CMODE2?

CPV/CPV2
Description: Configures/Queries the VSET voltage setting of the
selected power supply. See
VOLTage/VOLT2command for similar syntax.CPV2 is
for dual channel models only.
Example: CPV 15.698
Sets the selected power supply’s VSET voltage
setting to 15.698 V.
CPV2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
VSET voltage setting.

CMV?/CMV2?
Description: Queries the measured/readback voltage output value
of the selected power supply. See VOUT?/VOUT2?
Command for similar syntax.CMV2? is for dual
channel models only.
Query: CMV?

156
Return String: 1.234 V
The selected power supply has a measured output
voltage of 1.234 V.

CPC/CPC2
Description: Configures/Queries the ISET current setting of the
selected power supply. See CURRent/CURR2
command for similar syntax.CPC2 is for dual channel
models only.
Example: CPC 3.123
Sets the selected power supply’s ISET current setting
to 3.123 A.
CPC2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
ISET current setting.

CMC?/CMC2?
Description: Queries the measured/readback current output value
of the selected power supply. See IOUT?/IOUT2?
Command for similar syntax.CMC2?is for dual
channel models only.
Query: CMC?
Return String: 1.234 A
The selected power supply has a measured output
current of 1.234 A.

CDVC?/CDVC2?
Description: Queries the display voltage and current of the
selected power supply. CDVC2? Is for dual channel
models only.
Example: CDVC?
Queries channel 1 for dual channel models, or single
channel.
CDVC2?
Queries channel 2 for dual channel models.
Return String: 10.234,1.567
Display voltage is 10.234 V and current is 1.567 A.
157
Format: <voltage>,<current>

COUT/COUT2
Description: Configures/Queries the output state of the selected
power supply. See OUT/OUT2 command for similar
syntax.COUT2 is for dual channel models only.
Example: COUT ON
Sets the selected power supply’s output to ON.
COUT2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
output state.

COUTA
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures the output state of both channels of the
selected power supply.
Example: COUTA ON
Enables both channel outputs of the selected dual
channel power supply.
COV/COV2
Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection value
of the selected power supply. See OVSET/OVSET2
command for similar syntax. COV2 is for dual
channel models only.
Example: COV 70.000
Sets the selected power supply’s OVP value to
70.000V.
COV2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
OVP value.

COVP/COVP2
Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection state
of the selected power supply. See OVP/OVP2
command for similar syntax. COVP2 is for dual
channel models only.
Example: COVP ON
Sets the selected power supply’s OVP state to ON.
COVP2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
158
 OVP state.

COC/COC2
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection value
of the selected power supply. See OISET/OISET2
command for similar syntax. COC2 is for dual
channel models only.
Example: COC 3.000
Sets the selected power supply’s OCP value to 3.000
A.
COC2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
OCP value.

COCP/COCP2
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection state
of the selected power supply. See OCP/OCP2
command for similar syntax. COCP2 is for dual
channel models only.
Example: COCP ON
Sets the selected power supply’s OCP state to ON.
COCP2?
Queries the selected power supply’s second channel
OCP state.

CMODE?/CMODE2?
Description: Queries the output mode (CV or CC) of the selected
power supply. CMODE2? Is for dual channel models
only.
Query: CMODE?
Queries channel 1 for dual channel models, or single
channel.
CMODE2?
Queries channel 2 for dual channel models.
159
 Return String: CV
Format: CV or CC

Examples
Here are a few examples of how to configure/query an instrument
connected in the RS-485 chain.

- Query the IDN information for power supply with address 3

CADR 3
CIDN?
- Configure ISET current of a dual channel supply with
address 10 to 1.234 A.
CADR10
CPC2 1.234
Return String: OK
- Enable both channels’ output for a dual channel supply with
address 2
CADR 2
COUTA ON
Return String: OK
- Query the measured/readback current output of power
supply with address 6
CADR 6
CMC?

Synchronous Control Command

160
This set of commands can be used to control all the power supplies
connected in the RS-485 chain at once. Note that these commands
will not return an “OK” string upon making a configuration.

GRST
GCLS
GCLR
GPV/GPV2
GPC/GPC2
GOUT/GOUT2
GOUTA
GOV/GOV2
GOVP/GOVP2
GOC/GOC2
GOCP/GOCP2

GRST
Description: Resets all the power supplies connected in the chain
to a known state.
Syntax: GRST

GCLS
Description: Clears the status of all the power supplies connected
in the chain.
Syntax: GCLS

GCLR
Description: Clears the protection flag/trip of all the power supplies
connected in the chain.
Syntax: GCLR

161
GPV/GPV2
Description: Configures/Queries the VSET voltage setting of all
the power supplies connected in the chain. See
VOLTage/VOLT2 command for similar syntax. GPV2
is for dual channel models only.
Example: GPV 15.698
Sets all the power supplies’ VSET voltage setting to
15.698 V.

GPC/GPC2
Description: Configures/Queries the ISET current setting of all the
power supplies connected in the chain. See
CURRent/CURR2 command for similar syntax.
GPC2 is for dual channel models only.
Example: GPC 3.123
Sets all the power supplies’ ISET current setting to
3.123 A.

GOUT/GOUT2
Description: Configures/Queries the output state of all the power
supplies in the chain. See OUT/OUT2 command for
similar syntax. GOUT2 is for dual channel models
only.
Example: GOUT ON
Sets all the power supplies’ output to ON.

GOUTA
Note: For dual channel models only.
Description: Configures the output state of both channels of the
selected power supply.
Example: GOUTA ON
Enables both channel outputs of all the dual channel
power supplies in the chain.

GOV/GOV2
162
 Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection value
of all the power supplies connected in the chain. See
OVSET/OVSET2 command for similar syntax. GOV2
is for dual channel models only.
Example: GOV 70.000
Sets all the power supplies’ OVP value to 70.000V.

GOVP/GOVP2
Description: Configures/Queries the over voltage protection state
of all the power supplies connected in the chain. See
OVP/OVP2 command for similar syntax. GOVP2 is
for dual channel models only.
Example: GOVP ON
Sets all the power supplies’ OVP state to ON.

GOC/GOC2
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection value
of all the power supplies connected in the chain. See
OISET/OISET2 command for similar syntax. GOC2
is for dual channel models only.
Example: GOC 3.000
Sets all the power supplies’ OCP value to 3.000 A.

GOCP/GOCP2
Description: Configures/Queries the over current protection state
of all the power supplies connected in the chain. See
OCP/OCP2 command for similar syntax. GOCP2 is
for dual channel models only.
Example: GOCP ON
Sets all the power supplies’ OCP state to ON.

Error List
Using any of the commands for multi unit programming for

163
configuration, a response string is returned. If the command was
sent successfully to the power supply(s) (except for Synchronous
Control Commands), the return string will be “OK”. If otherwise, an
error message will occur. See the table below for the list of errors
and their descriptions.

Table 10- Error List for Multi Unit Programming

Return String Description

Time out Wait response time has timed out
Range error Input value is out of range
More than one master is in the
Multi master
chain.

164
5 Troubleshooting Guide
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers. Please
check if any applies to your power supply before contacting B&K
Precision.

General
Q: I cannot power up the power supply.
- Check that the power cord is securely connected to the AC
input and there is live power from your electrical AC outlet.
- Check that the correct fuse is inserted into the fuse box in the
rear panel, and the line voltage switch is selected to the
appropriate voltage. See section “2.1” and “2.2” for details.
Q: I cannot access the menu when pressing the MENU button.
- Check that the outputs are OFF (disabled).
- Check to make sure the instrument is not in remote mode, as
indicated by the RMT LED indicator.
Q: How do I setup the supply to run in constant current mode?
- The supply is a CV/CC power supply that automatically crosses
over from CV to CC upon a load which draws current at the
current limit (ISET). Therefore, it is dependent on the load. For
example, if ISET is configured as 1 A, the load must draw 1 A
before the supply will go into CC mode.
Q: How come my display voltage is lower than the voltage I
set?
- This is often because of the resistances from the test
leads/wires connected between the supply and the DUT (device

165
 under test), which causes a drop in voltage. To minimize this
drop, use remote sense terminals to compensate and output a
more accurate voltage to the DUT.
Q: On my dual channel power supply, how do I set a timer
output for each channel?
- The two channels are dependent on the same timer function.
Therefore, when used it will affect both outputs.
Q: I want to use the external analog control from the
DIO/Analog interface card. However, I only want to adjust
voltage.
- The external analog control requires that both voltage and
current analog controls are connected to either an external DC
voltage or resistance. If only the voltage input terminals are
connected, current will remain set to 0 A, and thus output will be
0. Two sources (DC voltage or resistance) must be used
simultaneously to function properly; one for voltage and one for
current.
Q: I cannot set voltage or current at the maximum rating.
- Go into the menu and check the OUTPUT SETTINGS to verify
that the VOLT LIMIT SETTING and CURR LIMIT SETTING are
configured within the range you want to adjust.
- Verify the protection settings under the PROTECTION menu to
make sure OVP and OCP settings are configured to the
maximum value or greater than the voltage and current value
you want to adjust.

166
Remote Control
Q: I am trying to send the commands over USB/RS232, but it
does not seem to respond.
- Check that you are sending ASCII strings that are terminated
with a CR (carriage return) and LF (linefeed) character.
- For USB, check that the correct USB drivers are installed and
that you are communicating with the right COM port, which can
be verified under “Device Manager” in Windows.
- For USB and RS232, be sure to use 57600 baudrate, no parity,
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no flow control setting.
Q: Can I use RS485 to control multiple power supplies instead
of via USB if my PC has an RS485 interface port?
- Yes. Please contact B&K Precision for details.

167
6 Specifications
Note: All specifications apply to the unit after a temperature
stabilization time of 15 minutes over an ambient temperature range
of 23 °C ± 5 °C. Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Model 9171B 9172B

Output Rating
Low Range 0–10V/0 -10A 0–35V/0–3A
High Range 0–20V/0–5A 0–70V/0 – 1.5A
Output Channel 1
Output Power 100W 105W
General
Maximum Rated Input
230VA
Power
Dimension(W*H*D) 210mmx87mmx414mm
Weight 7kg

Model 9173B 9174B

Output Rating
Low Range 0–10V/0–10A 0–35V/0–3A
High Range 0–20V/0–5A 0–70V/0– 1.5A
Output Channel 2
Output Power 200W 210W
General
Maximum Rated Input
460VA
Power
Dimension(W*H*D) 210mmx130.5mmx415mm
Weight 10.5kg

168
Model 9181B 9182B
Output Rating
Low Range 0–18V/0–8A 0–10V/0–20A
High Range 0–36V/0–4A 0–20V/0–10A
Output Channel 1
Output Power 144W 200W
General
Maximum Rated Input
230VA 680VA
Power
210mmx87mmx414m 210mmx130.5mmx4
Dimension(W*H*D)
m 15mm
Weight 7.7kg 12kg

Model 9183B
Output Rating
Low Range 0–35V/0–6A
High Range 0–70V/0–3A
Output Channel 1
Output Power 210W
General
Maximum Rated Input
510VA
Power
Dimension(W*H*D) 210mmx130.5mmx415mm
Weight 11kg

Model 9184B 9185B

Output Rating
Low Range 0–100V/0–2A 0–400V/0– 0.5A
High Range 0–200V/0–1A 0–600V/0– 0.35A
Output Channel 1
Output Power 200W 210W
169
General
Maximum Rated Input
510VA
Power
Dimension(W*H*D) 210mmx130.5mmx415mm
Weight 10.5kg

Note: The specifications below apply to all models in the

series. Some specifications have model number(s) in ( ) to
indicate which model(s) they apply to.

Line Regulation
Voltage ≤0.01%+1mV
Current ≤ 0.01%+250uA
Load Regulation1
Voltage ≤ 0.01%+1mV
Current ≤ 0.01%+250uA
Ripple and Noise (20Hz-20MHz)
≤ 0.35mVrms/≤ 3mVpp
(9171B,9173B,9181B,9182B)
≤ 0.5mVrms/≤ 5mVpp
Normal Mode Voltage
(9172B,9174B,9183B)
≤ 1.5 mVrms/≤ 15 mVpp (9184B)
≤ 4.5 mVrms/≤ 45 mVpp (9185B)
Normal Mode Current ≤ 2mA rms
Common Mode Current ≤ 1.5uA rms
Resolution
<1 mV/<1 mA
Programming and (9171B,9173B,9181B,9182B)
Readback <2 mV/<0.1 mA (9172B,9174B)
<2mV/<0.2mA (9183B)
170
 <10mV/<0.1mA (9184B)
<20mV/<0.01mA (9185B)
Programming and Readback Accuracy ±(% output+offset)
≤ 0.05%+5mV(9171B,9173B,9181B,
9182B)
Voltage ≤ 0.05%+10mV(9172B,9174B,9183B)
≤ 0.05%+50 mV(9184B)
≤ 0.05%+100mV(9185B)
≤ 0.1%+2mA (9171B,9173B,9181B,9183B)
≤ 0.1%+1mA (9172B,9174B,9184B)
Current
≤ 0.1%+5 mA (9182B)
≤ 0.1%+0.1 mA (9185B)
Temperature Coefficient per °C ±(% output+offset)
≤ 0.005%+1mV
Voltage ≤ 0.005%+10 mV (9184B)
≤ 0.005 %+20 mV (9185B)
Current ≤ 0.01%+3mA
Stability (8 hrs) ±(% output+offset)
≤ 0.02%+2mV
Voltage ≤ 0.02 %+10 mV(9184B)
≤ 0.02%+20 mV(9185B)
Current ≤ 0.1%+1mA
2
Settling Time ≤ 30ms
Measurement Time ≤ 5ms
≤ 50μs (9171B - 9183B)
Transient Response Time3
≤ 100μs (9184B, 9185B)
≤ 0.5%+0.1V (9171B – 9183B)
OVP Accuracy
≤ 0.5%+1V (9184B, 9185B)
OCP Accuracy ≤ 0.5%+0.1A
4
OVP/OCP Activation Time ≤ 1mS

171
Remote Sense
1V Max
Compensation
≤ 8ms (9171B,9173B,9181B,9182B)
≤ 10ms (9172B,9174B,9183B)
Rising Time at Full Load
≤ 30ms (9184B)
≤ 40ms (9185B)
≤ 8ms (9171B,9173B,9181B,9182B)
≤ 10ms (9172B,9174B,9183B)
Rising Time at No Load
≤ 30ms (9184B)
≤ 40ms (9185B)
≤ 8ms (9171B,9173B,9181B,9182B)
≤ 10ms (9172B,9174B,9183B)
Falling Time at Full Load
≤ 30ms (9184B)
≤ 40ms (9185B)
Falling Time at No Load ≤ 250ms
Standard Interface USB
LAN/GPIB Card, Digital I/O and Analog
5
Optional Interface Cards Control Cards (1CH and 2CH), RS485
Card, RS232 Card
Remote Command
≤ 10ms (typical)
Processing Time
General
AC Input 115/230 VAC± 10%, 47Hz - 63Hz
Operating Temperature 0°C- 40°C
Storage Temperature -10°C- 70°C
1With sense terminal connected.
2Maximum time required for the output voltage to change from 1% to 99% or

vice versa following the receipt of VOLTage or VSET command via direct GPIB
or USB interface.
3
Models 9171B – 9183B: Less than 50 μs for output to recover to within 15 mV
following a change in output current from full load to half load or vice versa.
Model 9184B: Less than 100 μs for output to recover to within 50 mV following
a change in output current from full load to half load or vice versa.
Model9185B: Less than 100 μs for output to recover to within 120 mV following
172
a change in output current from full load to half load or vice versa.
4Average time for output to start to drop after OVP/OCP condition occurs.
5Digital I/O Analog Control Card Accuracy:±1%.

To ensure the most current version of this manual, please download the
latest version here: [Link]
For current up-to-date product information, please visit
[Link]

173
7 Calibration
Access Calibration Menu
Follow the steps below to access the calibration menu.
1. Press Menu , then 7 to enter CALIBRATION. The
following screen will be displayed:

PLEASE KEYIN PASSWORD : _

2. Enter the password: 13579 with the numeric keypad.

3. There will be two options. 1. CURRENT CALIBRATION, and
2. VOLTAGE CALIBRATION, as shown in the screen below.
A third option 3. EXT. INPUT CALIB is available if the supply
has an optional DIO/Analog Interface Card installed.

1. CURRENT CALIBRATION
2. VOLTAGE CALIBRATION

Requirements
Before calibrating, the “+”output terminal must be connected to the
“+S” terminal and the “–”output terminal must be connected to the
“–S” terminal using the included shorting bars/pins.

174
The following equipment is required for the calibration procedure:
 6 ½ digit precision digital multimeter
 Shunt for current calibration (Necessary if the maximum
output current of the power supply is greater than the
maximum current the multimeter is capable of measuring)
 DC source with an output up to 10VDC and accuracy of at
least ±0.1% (for external analog input calibration)
 5 kΩ resistor with accuracy within ±0.1% or better (for external
analog input calibration)

Current Calibration
- If the maximum output current of the power supply is within the
current limit of the DMM, then use the wire connections shown in
Figure 31 to calibrate current.
- If the maximum output current of the power supply is greater than
the current limit of the DMM, then a current shunt must be used.
The wire connections between the power supply and the DMM will
be setup like Figure 32.

6 ½ Digit DMM

Figure 31 - Current Calibration Setup

175
 6 ½ Digit DMM

Figure 32- Current Calibration with Shunt

Follow the steps below to proceed with current calibration:

1. From the calibration menu, press 1 to enter CURRENT
CALIBRATION. The following screen will be shown.

CURRENT CALIBRATION CH: 1

IL Set = X . XXXXA Read = XXX
IML Set = X . XXXXA Read = XXX

2. Select the channel (for dual channel models), then press Enter .
The calibration process will automatically start.

176
3. The power supply will output a pre-set current to the DMM. Wait
for the DMM reading to settle, then enter it into where it shows
IL Set = __.____A on the display. Press Enter to proceed to IML.
If current shunt is used for the calibration, divide the DMM
readings (in DCV) by the resistance (Rs) of the shunt. The result
should be DCV/Rs. Enter this current result into IL.
4. The power supply will then pre-set another current value for IML.
Repeat the same process in step 3. Once finished, repeat the
same process for IMH and IH, as shown below.

IMH Set = X . XXXXA Read = XXXXX

IH Set = X . XXXXA Read = XXXXX
CALIB OCP Lo = Start

CALIB OCP Hi = Start

5. Once finished, the OCP Lo calibration will begin. Press Enter

to start. After it’s complete, the unit will select CALIB OCP Hi for
calibration. Again, after it’s complete, press Enter .
6. Once this calibration process is complete, the calibration data
will be stored into flash memory, and the supply will return to the
calibration menu.

177
Voltage Calibration
- Use the setup diagram shown in Figure 33 below for voltage
calibration. Connect the rear output terminals of the power
supply to the DMM.

6 ½ Digit DMM

Figure 33- Voltage Calibration Setup

Follow the steps below to proceed with voltage calibration:

1. From the calibration menu, press 2 to enter VOLTAGE
CALIBRATION. The following screen will be shown.

VOLTAGE CALIBRATION CH: 1

VL Set = X . XXXXV Read = XXXX
VML Set = XX . XXXXV Read = XXXXX

178
2. Select the channel (for dual channel models), then press Enter .
The calibration process will automatically start.
3. The power supply will output a pre-set voltage to the DMM. Wait
for the DMM reading to settle, then enter it into where it shows
VL Set = __.____V on the display. Press Enter to proceed to the
next setp.
4. The power supply will then pre-set another voltage value for
VML. Repeat the same process in step 3. Once finished, repeat
the same process for VMH and VH, as shown below.

VMH Set = XX . XXXXV Read = XXXXX

VH Set = XX . XXXXV Read = XXXXX
CALIB OVP Lo = Start

CALIB OVP Hi = Start

5. Once finished, the OVP Lo calibration will begin. Press Enter

to start. After it’s complete, the unit will select CALIB OVP Hi for
calibration. Again, after completion, press Enter.

6. Once this calibration process is complete, the calibration data

will be stored into flash memory, and the supply will return to the
calibration menu.

179
External Analog Input Calibration
This calibration option is only available if the optional DIO/Analog
Interface Card is installed in the power supply.

Follow the steps below to proceed with external analog input

calibration.
1. From the calibration menu, press 3 to enter EXT. INPUT
CALIB. If the single channel DIO/Analog Interface Card is
installed, then Figure 34 will be shown. If the dual channel
version is installed, Figure 35 will be displayed.

Calib EXT . Lo Volt = 1 . 000 V

Calib EXT . Lo Volt = 9 . 000 V
CH 1 EXT . VOLT Res = Start

CH 1 EXT . CURR Res = Start

Figure 34- Single Channel External Analog Input Calibration

180
 Calib EXT . Lo Volt = 1 . 000 V
Calib EXT . Lo Volt = 9 . 000 V
CH 1 EXT . VOLT Res = Start

CH 1 EXT . CURR Res = Start

CH 2 EXT . VOLT Res = Start
CH 2 EXT . CURR Res = Start

Figure 35- Dual Channel External Analog Input Calibration

2. Connect the 10VDC source to the analog inputs on the

DIO/Analog Interface Card as shown in Figure 36 for single
channel.

Figure 36- Single Channel Analog Control Calibration Setup

3. Set the DC source to output 1.000 V and wait for approximately

5 seconds until the output voltage is stable. Press Enter to finish
the first step.
4. Next, change the output of the DC source to 9.000 V and follow
the same as step 3.

181
5. To begin calibration with the external resistor, remove the DC
source and connect the precision resistor to the control card, as
shown in Figure 37(right) below.

Figure 37- External Resistance Control Calibration setup (left) Current (right)

Voltage

6. The supply will display CH1 EXT. VOLT Res. Press Enter to
calibrate.
7. Once finished, CH1 EXT. CURR Res will be selected. Connect
the precision resistor as shown in Figure 37(left). Press Enter to
proceed with the calibration.
8. (Dual channel) The calibration process for the dual channel
DIO/Analog Interface Card is similar to the above steps for
single channel, with the exception of repeating steps 3-7 twice.
9. (Dual channel) For the external voltage calibration, connect the
leads like Figure 38 shown below.

182
 Figure 38- Dual Channel External Analog Voltage Input Calibration Setup

10. (Dual channel) For the external resistor calibration, connect like
for channel 1 for current and voltage, and connect like for
channel 2 for current and voltage.
11. Once finished, the supply will return to the calibration menu. To
exit and go back to the main display, press Esc twice.

Figure 39- Channel 1 Setup for External Analog Resistor Input Calibration

183
Figure 40- Channel 2 Setup for External Analog Resistor Input Calibration

184
Index

AC input, 19 OVP, 67
Calibration, 161 Power-On State, 71
CHAIN SETTING, 39 Rackmount, 9
Current Limit, 45 rear output terminals, 22
Digital I/O, 78 Recall, 71
Dual Channel, 50, 56 Remote Commands, 92
Enable/Disable Output, 50 Remote Sense, 58
errors, 82 Resistance, 75
Ethernet (LAN), 35, 89 RMT, 33
External Analog Control, 73 RS-232, 36
Factory Default, 42 RS-485, 37, 139
Firmware Version, 28 Save, 70
Fuse, 19 SCPI, 93
GPIB, 35 Self Test, 24
GPIO:DIR, 80 Sequence Program, 72, 135
Install Interface Cards, 11 Series/Parallel Tracking, 57
Interface Card, 8 Setting Current, 48
Key Lock, 40 Setting Voltage, 46
Key Sound, 41 Slew Rate, 52, 106, 107
LCD BACKLIT, 40 Socket, 91
LED Mode, 63 Specifications, 155
Line Voltage Switch, 21 STATUS?, 132
Measurement Averag, 56 Telnet, 89
Menu, 29 Troubleshooting, 152
Multi Unit Programming, 139 USB Interface, 33
OCP, 68 Voltage Limit, 44
Output Timer, 54 Web Server, 86

185
SERVICE INFORMATION

Warranty Service: Please go the support and service section on our website
[Link] to obtain a RMA #. Return the product in the original packaging with
proof of purchase to the address below. Clearly state on the RMA the performance problem
and return any leads, probes, connectors and accessories that you are using with the device.
Non-Warranty Service: Please go the support and service section on our website
[Link] to obtain a RMA #. Return the product in the original packaging to
the address below. Clearly state on the RMA the performance problem and return any leads,
probes, connectors and accessories that you are using with the device. Customers not on an
open account must include payment in the form of a money order or credit card. For the
most current repair charges please refer to the service and support section on our website.

Return all merchandise to B&K Precision Corp. with pre-paid shipping. The flat-rate
repair charge for Non-Warranty Service does not include return shipping. Return
shipping to locations in North America is included for Warranty Service. For
overnight shipments and non-North American shipping fees please contact B&K
Precision Corp.

B&K Precision Corp.

22820 Savi Ranch Parkway
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
[Link]
714-921-9095

Include with the returned instrument your complete return shipping address,

contact name, phone number and description of problem.

186
LIMITED THREE-YEAR WARRANTY

B&K Precision Corp. warrants to the original purchaser that its products and the
component parts thereof, will be free from defects in workmanship and materials for
a period of three year from date of purchase.

B&K Precision Corp. will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective
product or component parts. Returned product must be accompanied by proof of
the purchase date in the form of a sales receipt.

To help us better serve you, please complete the warranty registration for your new

instrument via our website [Link]

Exclusions: This warranty does not apply in the event of misuse or abuse of
the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs. The warranty
is void if the serial number is altered, defaced or removed.

B&K Precision Corp. shall not be liable for any consequential damages, including
without limitation damages resulting from loss of use. Some states do not allow
limitations of incidental or consequential damages. So the above limitation or
exclusion may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific rights and you may have other rights, which vary
from state-to-state.

B&K Precision Corp.

22820 Savi Ranch Parkway
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
[Link]
714-921-9095

187
 22820 Savi Ranch Parkway
Yorba Linda, CA92887
[Link]

© 2016 B&K Precision Corp.

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