SRS Labs SR530, Lock-In Amplifier specification

If n is included, then v may be sent also. v is the offset value up to plus or minus full scale in units of volts. For example, to offset half of full scale on the 100 ∝ V sensitivity, v should be "50.0E-6" or an equivalent value. However, if the sensitivity is then changed to 200 ∝ V, the offset is now half of the new full scale or 100 ∝ V. When the sensitivity is changed, the offset is preserved as a constant fraction of full scale rather than as a voltage referred to the input. The expand function will, on the other hand, preserve the value of the offset as an input referred voltage. Once a value of v is sent, the offsets may be turned off and on without losing the offset values by using the O commands without the v parameter. Note that the X and Y offsets will affect the R output but the R offset does not affect the X or Y output.

P {v}

If v is absent, the P command returns the reference phase shift setting from -180 to +180 degrees. When v is included, the phase is set to the value of v up to ±999 degrees.

The Q commands return the output values in units of volts or degrees. For an input signal of 50

∝V on a full scale sensitivity of 100 ∝ V, a Q command will return the string "50.00E-6". "Q1" and "Q2" read the parameters being shown on the Channel 1 and Channel 2 output displays as selected with the S command. "QX" and "QY" read the X (RCOS Ø) and Y (RSIN Ø) BNC outputs.

R {n}

If n is included, the R command sets the reference input trigger mode. If n is absent, the trigger mode is returned.

nMode

0 ositive

1 Symmetric

2 Negative

S {n}

If n is included, the S command selects the parameters shown on the Channel 1 and 2 analog meters, output digital displays, and output BNC's. If n is absent, the displayed parameter is returned.

n	Channel 1	Channel 2
0	X	Y
1	X Offset	Y Offset

2	R	Ø
3	R Offset	Ø
4	X Noise	Y Noise
5	X5 (D/A)	X6 (D/A)

T m {,n}

The T command sets and reads the status of the time constants. If m is "1", the pre time constant is selected, if m is "2", the post time constant is selected. The parameter m is required. If n is included, the T command sets the selected time constant. If n is absent, the setting of the selected time constant is returned.

n	Pre Time Constant (m=1)
1	1	mS
2	3	mS
3	10	mS
4	30	mS
5	100	mS
6	300	mS
7	1	S
8	3	S
9	10	S
10	30	S
11	100	S

nPost Time Constant (m=2)

0 none

1	0.1	S
2	1	S

U m {,n}

The U command sets and reads the unit's calibration bytes. m is the address offset of the byte, 0-511. If n is absent, the value of the addressed calibration byte is returned. If n is included, the addressed calibration byte is set to the value of n, 0-255. The new value will be in effect until the power is turned off or a reset command is issued. Use of this command is not recommended.

V {n}

If n is included, the V command sets the GPIB SRQ (service request) mask to the value n (0- 255). If n is absent, the value of the SRQ mask is returned.

W {n}

The W command sets and reads the RS232 character wait interval. If n is included, the SR530 will wait nx4 mS between characters sent over the RS232 interface. This allows slow computer interfaces to keep up. n can range from 0 to 255. If n is absent, the wait value is returned. The wait interval is set to 6 on power-up.

SR530, Lock-In Amplifier specifications

The SRS Labs Lock-In Amplifier, model SR530, is a powerful tool designed for high-precision measurements in the realm of scientific research and industrial applications. This state-of-the-art instrument excels in extracting small signals from noisy environments, making it an invaluable asset for experiments in fields such as physics, engineering, and materials science.

One of the main features of the SR530 is its ability to perform synchronous detection, which is key to improving signal-to-noise ratios. By utilizing a reference signal, the device correlates the incoming signal with the reference to effectively filter out noise, allowing for the accurate measurement of weak signals that might otherwise be obscured. This process of phase-sensitive detection is fundamental to the operation of the Lock-In Amplifier.

The SR530 offers a wide frequency range, covering from 0.1 Hz to 100 kHz. This broad frequency response allows it to handle a diverse array of signals, making it suitable for various applications including optical detection, capacitance measurements, and in many cases, voltammetry. The device is also equipped with multiple inputs and outputs, facilitating the integration with other laboratory equipment and enabling complex experimental setups.

Precision is further enhanced with its adjustable time constant, which allows users to optimize the response time based on experimental needs. The user can choose time constants from 10 microseconds to 10 seconds, accommodating fast dynamic measurements as well as those requiring stability over longer durations.

Another remarkable characteristic of the SR530 is its digital processing capabilities. The device features a highly accurate digital voltage measurement system, minimizing drift and ensuring long-term stability. Additionally, the use of microprocessors enhances data handling and allows for features such as programmable settings, facilitating automated measurements.

Moreover, the SR530 includes a range of output options, including analog outputs, which can be used for direct signal processing, as well as digital interfaces for integration with computers. This ensures that users can not only capture high-fidelity data but also analyze and display it efficiently.

In conclusion, the SRS Labs SR530 Lock-In Amplifier stands out due to its sophisticated technology, versatile features, and robust performance. Its precision, flexibility, and ease of use make it an ideal choice for researchers and engineers looking to unlock the potential of weak signal measurement in complex environments.