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8 - Manual setup
Output Off state
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SMU4000 Series Instruction Manual
0V/100uA
– This is a zero-volt state where effectively SV mode is engaged, and the source
voltage is set to 0V with a current limit of +/- 100uA. The +/-100uA limit only applies when the
current range selection is set to auto. If manual current ranging is selected, then the limit is set
to +/-10% of the full-scale of the selected range.
Zero
- This is a zero-volt state where effectively SV mode is engaged, and the source voltage is
set to 0V with a user defined current limit. For modes that have a current limit (SV and MHR)
the current limit is set to the user defined limit setting. For all other modes the current limit is
set to the maximum allowable current of the instrument.
This mode can be used to discharge components such as capacitors and also remove any
unwanted charge stored within semiconductor devices between tests.
All off conditions (other than OPEN) utilize the same relevant manual setup settings. For
example the terminal configuration, slew rate, high reactance state, protection limits and range
selection will all match the existing manual setup configuration. One exception to this is that
during the off condition the measurement period is set to 10PLC when off condition
measurements are enabled.
CAUTION
Always take special care and consideration when configuring the output off state. This is
especially true when connecting to an external power source, this could be anything from a
discrete voltage source (PSU) to a capacitor or battery. For example, selecting the Zero output
off state when connected to an external voltage source will cause potentially very high levels of
current (up to the defined SMU current limit) to be drawn from the external voltage source.
Failure to take consideration of the output off state and the associated settings could result in
damage to the device under test.
Measurement
When Hi Z, 0V/100uA or Zero off state is selected, the buffer can be set to record the
measurements in the data buffer when the output is off.
NOTE
If measurements are enabled whilst the output is off, they will not appear in the measurement
buffer, only on the home screen in the results box.