B

Programming With A Series 200/300 Computer

Introduction

The purpose of this appendix is to serve as an introduction to programming your power supply with an HP Series 200/300 computer using the HP extended BASIC language. Examples are included that employ some of the most frequently used functions. These examples have been written so that they will run on any one of the five HP 6621A-6624A, and 6627A model power supplies. The values used in the examples (5 V and 1 A for instance), are within the operating locus of all outputs on all models. The examples program only channels one and two because all five models contain at least two channels (outputs).

You must be familiar with the BASIC language to understand the examples. If you do not recognize a programming statement, look up the keyword in the BASIC Language Reference document that was supplied with your computer, and look up the device command in Chapter 5 of this manual. Questions about program structure and selection are discussed in the BASIC Programming Techniques manual.

I/O Path Names

Throughout this appendix, I/O path names are used in place of interface and device select codes. In a large program, I/O path names simplify changing the address of an instrument if necessary. Reading and writing the program is easier as well. The l/O path name can be carried in a common block and changed by a single assign statement.

In the programming examples in this appendix, the I/O path name @Ps is used for the power supply. The ASSIGN statement that defines the I/O path must precede any statements that use the l/O path name. Therefore, instead of using the statement OUTPUT 705;"VSET1,5" in the following programs, the equivalent OUTPUT @Ps;"VSET1,5'' statement is used. The examples assume that the power supply is at address 5 and the HP-IB interface in the computer is select 7 (factory default).

Voltage and Current Programming

The power supply normally functions in one of two modes, either constant voltage with current limit or constant current with voltage limit. The operating mode is determined by a combination of voltage and current settings and load resistance. For example, with a 10 Ω load connected to output 1, the following program will put output 1 in constant voltage mode at 5 volts out with a 1 amp current limit. In this case the output current would be 0.5 A.

10 ASSIGN @Ps TO 705

20 OUTPUT @Ps;"VSET1,5;1SET1,1"

30 END

Line 10: Assigns the l/O pathname to the power supply.

Line 20: Sets output voltage and current. Note the use of the semicolon to separate multiple device commands.

If a 4 Ω load were used instead of a 10 Ω load, output 1 would have been operating in constant current mode at 1 amp out with a voltage limit of 5 volts. In this case the output voltage would be 4 V.

Programming with a Series 200/300 Computer97

Page 96 Page 98
Page 97
Image 97
HP 6624A, 6623A, 6621A manual Programming With a Series 200/300 Computer, Path Names, Voltage and Current Programming
Page 96 Page 98

6624A, 6621A, 6623A specifications

The HP 6623A, 6621A, and 6624A are precision DC power supplies widely recognized for their reliability and performance in various laboratory and industrial applications. These models are part of HP's 662X series, designed to cater to the needs of engineers, researchers, and technicians who require accurate power sources for their testing and development activities.

The main features of the HP 6623A, 6621A, and 6624A include their high stability, low ripple, and excellent load regulation, ensuring that the output voltage and current remain stable during testing. The power supplies provide multiple output channels, allowing users to power multiple devices simultaneously. The flexibility in setting voltage and current levels makes these models ideal for a wide range of applications, including semiconductor testing, device characterization, and system integration.

One of the standout technologies in the HP 662X series is the use of smart design techniques that minimize noise and enhance output performance. These power supplies incorporate advanced feedback mechanisms to maintain steady output, even under varying load conditions. Additionally, they feature programmable outputs, which means users can adjust the output levels through a connected computer or control system, streamlining the testing process and improving efficiency.

The HP 6623A model offers three independent outputs, with total power capabilities of 40 watts. It includes a 0-20V output, which can deliver up to 2A of current, along with two additional outputs that are adjustable. The 6621A provides a single output option, delivering a maximum of 20V and 2A, making it well-suited for simple applications where a single power source is required. In contrast, the HP 6624A stands out with its four independent output channels, providing a total of 60 watts, making it the most versatile of the three models.

Characteristics of these power supplies include user-friendly interfaces, allowing for easy configuration and monitoring of settings. LED indicators provide real-time feedback on voltage and current levels, enabling users to quickly assess the performance of their tests. Moreover, built-in protection features safeguard both the power supply and the connected devices from overvoltage and overcurrent conditions.

Overall, the HP 6623A, 6621A, and 6624A power supplies embody advanced engineering and design, making them invaluable tools for professionals looking for high-quality, reliable power sources for their electronic testing needs.
Top Page Image Contents