Section 2: General operation
Models 707B and 708B Switching Matrix Reference Manual
2-80
707B-901-01 Rev. B / January 2015
Switch operation
Working with channels
Overview
This section gives an overview of working with channels, including a discussion of channel types,
selecting channels, opening and closing channels, setting common channel attributes, and setting up
channel patterns.
To install the switching card, refer to instructions in Models 707B and 708B Quick Start Guide.
The Models 707B and 708B have specific settings that apply to opening and closing channels.
Hot switching can dry weld reed relays such that they will always be on. Hot switching is
recommended only when external protection is provided.
Specifying a channel
The channels on the cards that you can use with the Model 707B or 708B are referred to by a
channel specifier. You will use the specifier to identify channels for use with close and open
operations, scans, and channel patterns. The specifier is used for all interfaces (front panel, web, and
remote command).
A channel specifier is a four or five-digit alphanumeric sequence. The first digit is always the slot
number of the slot in which the card is installed in the instrument. The remaining digits vary
depending on the type of card.
The following sections describe the channel specifier in more detail and provide generic examples
(which may or may not be suitable for your installed cards).
Channel types
The Models 707B and 708B support cards with matrix channels. The documentation for your card
model lists the available channel types.
Specify multiple channel numbers using lists. Lists build on the individual channel specifier.
