18
HA0118T Rev 6 Feb 2016
Chapter 3
The software drivers consist of several ‘Objects’, which in turn contain ‘Methods’ and
‘Properties’. The ‘NanoTrak’ object contains the methods which facilitate the
programmed operation of the unit.
The methods are used to perform such tasks as setting the circle diameter and
position, returning the value of optical power input, setting scan frequency and phase
offset, and setting Latch or Track mode.
A brief overview of the methods and properties of the NanoTrak object can be found
in Chapter C. More detailed information, can be found in the
APTServer Helpfile
.
Programmed operation of the NanoTrak controller allows a wider range of functions
to be used than operation from the GUI panel alone. Other units such as the APT
Stepper Motor controller can also be controlled with the NanoTrak.
Range indicator
- displays the current range of the internal power meter. When
operating in 'Manual' ranging mode, the range can be changed by clicking the
required range number. Available ranges vary from 3 nanoamps (range 1) to
10milliamps (range 14) (when the display units are selected to mA - see below). Note
that in many practical arrangements the lower ranges may be unusable with typical
signal to noise ratios.
Auto and Man
- push button control used to toggle between auto and manual
ranging. The LED in the button is lit when selected.
Digital Display
- shows the feedback signal level being measured.
Display Units
- show the measurement units associated with the display or returned
by methods that return feedback signal readings.
If a PIN (TIA) input signal is connected (input source is set to TIA mode using the
SetInputSrc
method), the display can be configured to display mA, mW or dB.
If 'mA' is selected, readings are displayed or returned as the display shows the
actual PIN current being detected by the PIN current amplifier.
If 'mW' is selected, readings are displayed or returned as power, generated using
a Amp:Watt calibration factor specified either in the 'Settings; panel or by calling
the SetUnitsMode method.
Note
The serial number of the APT unit associated with the ActiveX control
instance (allocated using the HWSerialNum property), the APT server
version number, and the version number (in brackets) of the embedded
software running on the APT unit, are displayed in the top right hand
corner of the control.
Note
This is not intended to be a calibrated power reading, but rather a
convenient mechanism for converting current to power. The conversion
factor is typically wavelength specific.
