Series 2600B System SourceMeter® instrument User's Manual
Section 4: Operation
2600BS-900-01 Rev. A / August 2021
4-31
Output-off modes
Carefully consider and configure the appropriate output-off state, source function, and
compliance limits before connecting the 2600B to a device that can deliver energy (for
example, other voltage sources, batteries, capacitors, solar cells, or other 2600B
instruments). Configure recommended instrument settings before making connections to the
device. Failure to consider the output-off state, source, and compliance limits may result in
damage to the instrument or to the device under test (DUT).
Turning off the 2600B output may not completely isolate the instrument from the external circuit. You
can use the output-off mode to place the 2600B in a noninteractive state during idle periods. The
available output-off modes are normal, high-impedance, and zero.
Normal output-off mode
The normal output-off mode is the default output-off mode setting. When the source-measure unit
(SMU) is in the normal output-off mode, you can select either the current or the voltage output-off
(on page 4-32)). You can also specify current and voltage output-off
limits (
Output-off limits (compliance)
(on page 4-33)).
When the output is turned off, the output goes to either 0 V or 0 A, depending on the selected
output-off function. Voltage is the default output-off function.
High-impedance output-off mode
For the high-impedance output-off mode (HI-Z), the output relay opens when the output is turned off.
This disconnects external circuitry from the input/output of the source-measure unit (SMU). To
prevent excessive wear on the output relay, do not use this output-off mode for tests that turn the
output off and on frequently.
Zero output-off mode
When the zero output-off mode is selected, the programmed source remains on the display, but
internally, the voltage source is selected and is set to 0 V. Measurements are made and displayed.
When the selected source is voltage, the current compliance setting remains the same as the
output-on value and compliance detection remains active.
When the selected source is current, the current compliance setting is the programmed current
source value or 10 percent full-scale of the present current range, whichever is greater.
You can use the 2600B as a current meter when it is in zero output-off mode because it outputs 0 V
but measures current.