B2900A Prog

Agilent B2900 Series
Precision Source/Measure
Unit
Programming Guide
Agilent Technologies
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In This Manual
This manual provides the information for controlling the Agilent Technologies B2900
by using an external computer, and consists of the following chapters.
• “Controlling the Agilent B2900”

Describes how to control the B2900 on a task basis.
• “Programming Examples”
Introduces example programs for controlling the B2900.
See Agilent B2900 User's Guide for information about the B2900 itself.
Refer to Agilent B2900 SCPI Command Reference for the SCPI messages and
conventions, data output format, error code, and the details on Agilent B2900 SCPI
commands.
Microsoft, Windows, and Visual Basic are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Contents
1. Controlling the Agilent B2900

Before Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Software Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Connecting to the Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Starting the Instrument Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Controlling Various Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Setting the Power Frequency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Resetting to the Initial Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Setting the Beeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Performing the Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Performing the Self-Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Setting the Operations at Power On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Reading an Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Clearing the Error Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Reading Timestamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Clearing Timestamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Setting the Automatic Clear of Timestamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Confirming the Firmware Revision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Setting the Remote Display Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Making a Screen Dump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Performing a File Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Controlling the Source Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Enabling the Source Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Setting the Source Output Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Applying the DC Voltage/Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Stopping the Source Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Setting the Limit/Compliance Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Setting the Output Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Setting the Pulse Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Contents
Setting the Sweep Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Setting the Sweep Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Setting the Ranging Mode of the Sweep Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Setting the List Sweep Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Setting the Source Output Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Setting the Source Wait Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Setting the Output Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Setting the Connection Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Setting the Low Terminal State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Enabling or Disabling the High Capacitance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Enabling or Disabling the Over Voltage/Current Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Specifying the Output-Off Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-On Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-Off Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Controlling the Measurement Function. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Enabling the Measurement Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Setting the Measurement Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Setting the Resistance Measurement Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Enabling or Disabling the Resistance Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Performing Spot Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Setting the Measurement Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Setting the Measurement Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Setting the Measurement Auto Range Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Setting the Measurement Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Setting the Measurement Wait Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
Performing Sweep Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
Stopping Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
Using the Math Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Defining a Mass Expression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Deleting an User Defined Mass Expression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Enabling or Disabling the Mass Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Contents
Reading Mass Result Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Performing the Limit Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
Setting the Composite Limit Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
Setting Individual Limit Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
Reading Limit Test Result. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
Using the Trace Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
Setting the Trace Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
Reading the Trace Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
Using Program Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Defining a Memory Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Deleting a Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Controlling the Program Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
2. Programming Examples
Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
To Create Your Project Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
To Create Measurement Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Spot Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Pulsed Spot Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Staircase Sweep Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Pulsed Sweep Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
List Sweep Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Pulsed List Sweep Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
Sampling Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
Pass/Fail Judgement and Math Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
Using Program Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37
Reading Binary Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40

Contents
Performing MOSFET Id-Vd Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

1 Controlling the Agilent B2900
Controlling the Agilent B2900
This chapter describes basic information to control the Agilent B2900, and consists
of the following sections.
• “Before Starting”
• “Controlling Various Functions”
• “Controlling the Source Output”
• “Controlling the Measurement Function”
• “Using the Math Function”
• “Performing the Limit Test”
• “Using the Trace Buffer”
• “Using Program Memory”
The following conventions are used in this document for expressing SCPI
commands.
Convention Description
Angle Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations. For

brackets < > example, <NR1> indicates a specific form of numerical data.
Vertical bar | Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example,

VOLT | CURR indicates that either “VOLT” or “CURR” can
be used as a parameter.
Square Items within square brackets are optional. The representation

brackets [ ] [SOURce:]VOLTage means that SOURce: may be omitted.
Parentheses ( ) Items within parentheses are used in place of the usual

parameter types to specify a channel list. The notation (@1:3)
specifies a channel list that includes channels 1, 2, and 3. The
notation (@1,3) specifies a channel list that includes only
channels 1 and 3.
Braces { } Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more

times. It is used especially for representing arrays. The notation
<A>{,<B>} shows that parameter “A” must be entered, while
parameter “B” omitted or may be entered one or more times.
1- 2 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Before Starting
Before Starting
This section describes the information needed before starting programming.
• “Software Requirements”
• “Connecting to the Interface”
• “Starting the Instrument Control”
Software Requirements
Programming examples described in this manual use the following software. Install
the software to your computer to execute the programming examples.
• Agilent IO Libraries Suite software

• Microsoft Visual Basic .NET software
Connecting to the Interface

Agilent B2900 supports GPIB, LAN, and USB interfaces. All three interfaces are
live at power-on. Select the interface used for controlling the B2900. Connect your
interface cable to the appropriate interface connector.
For the information on configuring the interfaces, see Agilent B2900 Series User’s
Guide.
Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 3

Before Starting
Starting the Instrument Control

The following program code is one of the simple program template for starting and
ending the communication between the computer and the instrument. For using the
code, the instrument address must be set to the address variable correctly.
Sub Main()
Dim rm As Ivi.Visa.Interop.ResourceManager
Dim ioObj As Ivi.Visa.Interop.FormattedIO488
Dim address As String = "enter address of your instrument"

rm = New Ivi.Visa.Interop.ResourceManager
ioObj = New Ivi.Visa.Interop.FormattedIO488
ioObj.IO = rm.Open(address)
’ insert your code for instrument control
ioObj.IO.Close()
End Sub
The address value depends on the interface as shown below.
• For using the GPIB interface

The address value is the VISA GPIB Connect String displayed on the GPIB
Configuration dialog box opened by pressing the More > I/O > GPIB function
keys.
Example:
address = "GPIB0::23::INSTR"
• For using the USB interface
The address value is the VISA USB Connect String displayed on the USB
Status dialog box opened by pressing the More > I/O > USB function keys.
Example:
address = "USB0::2391::12345::XY00001234::0::INSTR"
• For using the LAN interface
The address value is as follows.
address = "TCPIP0::xxx.yyy.zzz.aaa::5025::SOCKET"
Where, xxx.yyy.zzz.aaa is the IP Address displayed on the LAN Configuration
dialog box opened by pressing the More > I/O > LAN > Config function keys.
Example:
address = "TCPIP0::192.168.0.1::5025::SOCKET"

Controlling Various Functions

This section describes how to control various functions apart from the source output
and measurement functions.
• “Setting the Power Frequency”

• “Resetting to the Initial Settings”
• “Setting the Beeper”
• “Setting the Date and Time”
• “Performing the Self-Test”
• “Performing the Self-Calibration”
• “Setting the Operations at Power On”
• “Reading an Error Message”
• “Clearing the Error Buffer”
• “Reading Timestamp”
• “Clearing Timestamp”
• “Setting the Automatic Clear of Timestamp”
• “Confirming the Firmware Revision”
• “Setting the Remote Display Mode”
• “Making a Screen Dump”
• “Performing a File Operation”
Setting the Power Frequency

Power line frequency is set by the :SYST:LFR command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:LFR 50") ’50 Hz

ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:LFR 60") ’60 Hz

Resetting to the Initial Settings

The initial settings are applied by the *RST command
Example ioObj.WriteString("*RST")
For the initial settings, see SCPI Command Reference.
Setting the Beeper

Beeper is enabled/disabled by the :SYST:BEEP:STAT command. And a beep sound
of the specified frequency and duration is generated by the :SYST:BEEP command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:BEEP:STAT ON") ’Enables beep

ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:BEEP 200,1") ’200 Hz, 1 s
Setting the Date and Time

Date is set by the :SYST:DATE command. And time is set by the :SYST:TIME
command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:DATE 2011,1,1") ’Y,M,D

ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:TIME 23,59,59") ’H,M,S
Performing the Self-Test

Self-test is performed by the *TST? command. The *TST? command also returns
the execution result. Before performing the self-test, disconnect test leads and cables
from the channel terminals.
Example ioObj.WriteString("*TST?")
Dim d As String = ioObj.ReadString()
If d = 0 Then
Console.WriteLine("PASS")
Else
Console.WriteLine("FAIL")
End If
This example performs the self-test, and displays the test result, pass or fail.
Performing the Self-Calibration

Self-calibration is performed by the *CAL? command. The *CAL? command also
returns the execution result. Before performing the self-calibration, disconnect test
leads and cables from the channel terminals.

Example ioObj.WriteString("*CAL?")
If d = 0 Then
Else
End If
This example performs the self-calibration, and displays the result, pass or fail.
Setting the Operations at Power On

Operations at power-on are decided by the memory program specified by the
:PROG:PON:COPY command. And the power-on program execution is enabled/
disabled by the :PROG:PON:RUN command. The specified program must be
previously defined in the program memory.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:PON:COPY ""program1""")

ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:PON:RUN ON")
This example sets program1 to the power-on program and enables the function.
Reading an Error Message

Error message is read one by one by using the :SYST:ERR? command. This
command reads and removes the top item in the error buffer, and returns the code
and message.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:ERR?")
Console.WriteLine(d)
If the error buffer is empty, the response is +0,“No error”.
Clearing the Error Buffer

Error buffer is cleared by the :SYST:ERR:ALL? command. This command reads
and returns all items in the error buffer, and clears the buffer.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:ERR:ALL?")
If the error buffer is empty, the response is +0,“No error”.

Reading Timestamp
Timestamp is read by the :SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN? command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN?")
Clearing Timestamp
Timestamp is cleared by the :SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN:RES command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN:RES")
Setting the Automatic Clear of Timestamp

Automatic clear of timestamp is enabled/disabled by the
:SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN:RES:AUTO command. If this function is enabled, the
timestamp is cleared when the initiate action occurs.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN:RES:AUTO ON")
Confirming the Firmware Revision

Instrument’s (mainframe) identification and firmware revision are read by the
*IDN? command.
Example ioObj.WriteString("*IDN?")
The returned value will be as follows.
Agilent Technologies,model,serial,revision
model: mainframe model number
serial: mainframe serial number
revision: firmware revision number

Setting the Remote Display Mode

Front panel display under remote operation is enabled or disabled by the
:DISP:ENAB command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":DISP:ENAB ON")
Making a Screen Dump

Screen dump of the front panel display is made by the :HCOP:SDUM commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":DISP:ENAB ON")

ioObj.WriteString(":DISP:VIEW GRAP")
ioObj.WriteString(":HCOP:SDUM:FORM JPG")
ioObj.WriteString("*OPC?") : s = ioObj.ReadString()
ioObj.WriteString(":HCOP:SDUM:DATA?")

Dim data As Object
data = ioObj.ReadIEEEBlock(Ivi.Visa.Interop.IEEEBinaryType.Binary
Type_UI1, False, True)

Dim dataSize As Integer = data.Length
Dim dumpname As String = "C:/temp/screendump1.jpg"
Using stream As New FileStream(dumpname, FileMode.Create,
FileAccess.Write)
stream.Write(data, 0, dataSize)
End Using
Performing a File Operation

File operation is effective for the USB memory connected to the front panel USB
connector, and performed by the :MMEM commands. Error occurs if an USB
memory is not connected.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":MMEM:CAT?") ’Gets file catalog

s = ioObj.ReadString()
ioObj.WriteString(":MMEM:STOR:DATA ""test.dat""") ’Saves data
ioObj.WriteString("*OPC?") : s = ioObj.ReadString()
ioObj.WriteString(":MMEM:STOR:STAT ""test.sta""") ’Saves status
ioObj.WriteString(":MMEM:LOAD:STAT ""test.sta""") ’Loads status

Controlling the Source Output

This section describes how to control the source output of Agilent B2900.
• “Enabling the Source Output”
• “Setting the Source Output Mode”
• “Applying the DC Voltage/Current”
• “Stopping the Source Output”
• “Setting the Limit/Compliance Value”
• “Setting the Output Range”
• “Setting the Pulse Output”
• “Setting the Sweep Operation”
• “Setting the Sweep Output”
• “Setting the Ranging Mode of the Sweep Source”
• “Setting the List Sweep Output”
• “Setting the Source Output Trigger”
• “Setting the Source Wait Time”
• “Setting the Output Filter”
• “Setting the Connection Type”
• “Setting the Low Terminal State”
• “Enabling or Disabling the High Capacitance Mode”
• “Enabling or Disabling the Over Voltage/Current Protection”
• “Specifying the Output-Off Status”
• “Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-On Function”
• “Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-Off Function”
NOTE The string :SOUR in the command string described in this manual can be omitted.
For example, :SOUR:VOLT can be :VOLT.

Enabling the Source Output

Source output is enabled by the :OUTP ON command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP ON")
Setting the Source Output Mode

Source output mode is set by the :SOUR:FUNC:MODE command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR") ’Current output

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE VOLT") ’Voltage output
Applying the DC Voltage/Current

DC current/voltage is immediately applied by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>
command during the source output is enabled.
If you want to control the DC current/voltage output timing using a trigger, use the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:TRIG command. See Figure 1-2.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:CURR 1E-3") ’Outputs 1 mA immediately
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE VOLT")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:MODE FIX")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:TRIG 1") ’Outputs 1 V by a trigger
Stopping the Source Output

Source output is stopped and disabled by the :OUTP OFF command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP OFF")
Setting the Limit/Compliance Value

Limit/compliance is set by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT>:PROT command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:PROT 0.1") ’100 mA compliance

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:VOLT:PROT 10") ’10 V compliance

Setting the Output Range

Output range is set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:RANG command. And the auto
range operation is enabled/disabled by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:RANG:AUTO
command. The lower limit for the auto range operation is set by the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:RANG:AUTO:LLIM command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:RANG:AUTO OFF")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:RANG 20") ’20 V range fix
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:RANG:AUTO ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:RANG:AUTO:LLIM 2") ’2 V range limit
Setting the Pulse Output

Pulse output is set by the :SOUR:FUNC:SHAP PULS, :SOUR:PULS:DEL, and
:SOUR:PULS:WIDT commands. See Figure 1-2.
Pulse base and peak values are set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command and the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:TRIG command respectively.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:SHAP PULS")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:PULS:DEL 1E-3") ’Delay time 1 ms
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:PULS:WIDT 1E-3") ’Pulse width 1 ms
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT 0") ’Base 0 V
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:TRIG 1") ’Peak 1 V
NOTE Outputting the pulse voltage/current

Execute the :OUTP ON command to start outputting the pulse base value.
Execute the :INIT to perform the specified pulse output and measurement.

Setting the Sweep Operation

For the variety of sweep output operation, see Figure 1-1.
Sweep direction, upward or downward is set by the :SOUR:SWE:DIR command.
Sweep mode, single or double is set by the :SOUR:SWE:STA command.
Sweep spacing, linear or log is set by the :SOUR:SWE:SPAC command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:DIR DOWN")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:STA DOUB")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:SPAC LOG")
Figure 1-1 Variety of Sweep Outputs

Single Sweep Double Sweep
:SWE:STA SING :SWE:STA DOUB
DC output Pulse output DC output Pulse output
:FUNC DC :FUNC PULS :FUNC DC :FUNC PULS
Linear Sweep
:SWE:SPAC LIN
DC output Pulse output DC output Pulse output

:FUNC DC :FUNC PULS :FUNC DC :FUNC PULS
Logarithmic Sweep
:SWE:SPAC LOG

Setting the Sweep Output

Staircase sweep output is set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:MODE SWE
command, the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:<POIN|STEP> or :SOUR:SWE:POIN
command, and the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:<STAR|STOP> or
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:<CENT|SPAN> command. See Figure 1-3.
Before performing the pulsed sweep output, it is necessary to set the staircase sweep
output and pulse output. For details on setting the pulse output, see “Setting the
Pulse Output” on page 1-12. Also see Figure 1-4.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:MODE SWE")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:STAR 0") ’Start 0 V
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:STOP 1") ’Stop 1 V
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:POIN 11") ’11 points
NOTE Outputting the sweep voltage/current

Execute the :OUTP ON command to start outputting the value set by the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command.
Execute the :INIT to perform the specified sweep output and measurement.
Setting the Ranging Mode of the Sweep Source

Ranging mode of sweep source is set by the :SOUR:SWE:RANG command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:RANG BEST") ’Covers all LIN steps

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:RANG FIX") ’Not change
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:RANG AUTO") ’Auto for each step
Setting the List Sweep Output

List sweep output is set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:MODE LIST command and
the :SOUR:LIST:<CURR|VOLT> command
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:MODE LIST")

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:LIST:VOLT 0,2,4,6,8,10,0")
NOTE Outputting the list sweep voltage/current

Execute the :OUTP ON command to start outputting the value set by the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command.
Execute the :INIT to perform the specified list sweep output and measurement.

Setting the Source Output Trigger

Source output trigger is simply set by the :TRIG<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:SOUR,
:TRIG<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:TIM, :TRIG<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:COUN, and
:TRIG<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:DEL commands. See Figure 1-2.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:SOUR TIM")

ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:TIM 4E-3") ’Interval 4 ms 
ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:COUN 11") ’11 points
ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:TRAN:DEL 1E-3") ’Source delay 1 ms
Figure 1-2 To Perform DC and Pulse Output and Spot Measurement
Constant source :FUNC DC, :CURR:MODE FIX or :VOLT:MODE FIX

Voltage or current
:CURR:TRIG or
Setup value
:VOLT:TRIG
Previous value
:SOUR:WAIT
:TRIG:TRAN:DEL :SENS:WAIT
: Measurement
Trigger :TRIG:ACQ:DEL
Time
Pulse source :FUNC PULS, :CURR:MODE FIX or :VOLT:MODE FIX

Voltage or current
Peak value :CURR:TRIG or
:VOLT:TRIG
Previous value
:PULS:WIDT
:SOUR:WAIT
:PULS:DEL
:SENS:WAIT
:TRIG:TRAN:DEL
Trigger :TRIG:ACQ:DEL : Measurement
Time
NOTE If you want to use arm trigger, use the :ARM<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:SOUR,
:ARM<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:TIM, :ARM<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:COUN, and
:ARM<:TRAN | [:ALL]>:DEL commands. For more details, see SCPI Command
Reference.

NOTE If source channels are set as shown below, the source output starts simultaneously.
• Trigger source is set to the same mode.

• Delay time is set to the same value.
• Source output ranging mode is set to the fixed mode.
• Source wait time control is set to OFF.
• Measurement wait time control is set to OFF.
• Measurement ranging mode is set to the fixed mode.
Setting the Source Wait Time

Source wait time is set by the :SOUR:WAIT commands. See Figures 1-3 and 1-4 for
the wait time.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT OFF") ’Wait = 0 s

ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT:AUTO OFF")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT:OFFS 10E-3") ’Wait = 10 ms
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT:AUTO ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT:OFFS 10E-3")
ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:WAIT:GAIN 1")’Wait = 10 ms + initial wait
Setting the Output Filter

Output filter is set by the :OUTP:FILT command, the :OUTP:FILT:AUTO
command, and the :OUTP:FILT:<FREQ|TCON> command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:FILT ON")

ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:FILT:AUTO OFF")
ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:FILT:FREQ 10E+3") ’10 kHz
Setting the Connection Type

Connection type, 2-wire or 4-wire is set by the :SENS:REM command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:REM ON") ’4-wire

Setting the Low Terminal State

Low terminal state, ground or floating is set by the :OUTP:LOW command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP OFF")

ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:LOW GRO") ’Ground
ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP ON")
Enabling or Disabling the High Capacitance Mode

High capacitance mode is set by the :OUTP:HCAP command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:HCAP ON")
Enabling or Disabling the Over Voltage/Current

Protection
Over voltage/current protection is set by the :OUTP:PROT command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:PROT ON")
Specifying the Output-Off Status

Output-off status is set by the :OUTP:OFF:MODE command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:OFF:MODE ZERO") ’Zero volt

ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:OFF:MODE HIZ") ’High impedance
ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:OFF:MODE NORM") ’Normal
Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-On

Function
Automatic output-on function is set by the :OUTP:ON:AUTO command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:ON:AUTO ON")
Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Output-Off

Function
Automatic output-off function is set by the :OUTP:OFF:AUTO command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP:OFF:AUTO ON")

Controlling the Measurement Function

This section describes how to control the measurement function of Agilent B2900.
• “Enabling the Measurement Channel”
• “Setting the Measurement Mode”
• “Setting the Resistance Measurement Mode”
• “Enabling or Disabling the Resistance Compensation”
• “Performing Spot Measurement”
• “Setting the Measurement Speed”
• “Setting the Measurement Range”
• “Setting the Measurement Auto Range Operation”
• “Setting the Measurement Trigger”
• “Setting the Measurement Wait Time”
• “Performing Sweep Measurement”
• “Stopping Measurement”
Enabling the Measurement Channel

Measurement channel is enabled by the :OUTP ON command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP ON")
Setting the Measurement Mode

Measurement mode is set by the :SENS:FUNC commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:FUNC:ALL")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:FUNC:OFF ""RES""")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:FUNC:OFF:ALL")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:FUNC ""RES""")

Setting the Resistance Measurement Mode

Resistance measurement mode, manual or auto is set by the :SENS:RES:MODE
command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:MODE AUTO") ’Auto mode

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:MODE MAN") ’Manual mode
Enabling or Disabling the Resistance Compensation

Resistance compensation is set by the :SENS:RES:OCOM command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:OCOM ON") ’Enables compensation
Performing Spot Measurement

Spot measurement is performed by the :MEAS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>? command or
the :MEAS? command. See Figure 1-2 for the spot measurement.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":MEAS:RES?")
ioObj.WriteString(":FORM:ELEM:SENS RES,STAT")
ioObj.WriteString(":MEAS?")
NOTE The :FORM:ELEM:SENS command is used to specify the data to obtain.
Setting the Measurement Speed

Measurement speed is set by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>:APER or
:SENS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>:NPLC command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:APER 1E-4") ’0.1 ms

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:NPLC 1") ’1 Power Line Cycle
Setting the Measurement Range

Measurement range is set by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>:RANG command.
And the auto range operation is enabled/disabled by the
:SENS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>:RANG:AUTO command. The lower limit for the auto
range operation is set by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT|RES>:RANG:AUTO:LLIM
command. The upper limit for the resistance measurement auto range operation is
set by the :SENS:RES:RANG:AUTO:ULIM command.

For current measurement and voltage measurement, the maximum measurement

range depends on the limit/compliance value.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO OFF")

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG 0.1") ’100 mA fixed
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:RANG:AUTO ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:RANG:AUTO:LLIM 2") ’2 ohm limit
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:RES:RANG:AUTO:ULIM 200") ’200 ohm limit
Setting the Measurement Auto Range Operation

Automatic measurement ranging operation mode, normal, resolution, or speed is set
by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT>:RANG:AUTO:MODE command. And the threshold
rate for the operation is set by the :SENS:<CURR|VOLT>:RANG:AUTO:THR
command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO:MODE NORM") ’Normal

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO:THR 80")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO:MODE RES") ’Resolution
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO:MODE SPE") ’Speed
Setting the Measurement Trigger

Measurement trigger is simply set by the :TRIG<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:SOUR,
:TRIG<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:TIM, :TRIG<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:COUN, and :TRIG<:ACQ |
[:ALL]>:DEL commands. See Figures 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:SOUR TIM")

ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:TIM 4E-3") ’Interval 4 ms 
ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:COUN 11") ’11 points
ioObj.WriteString(":TRIG:ACQ:DEL 2E-3") ’Meas delay 2 ms
NOTE If measurement channels are set as shown below, the measurement starts
simultaneously.
• Trigger source is set to the same mode.

• Delay time is set to the same value.
• Measurement wait time control is set to OFF.
• Measurement ranging mode is set to the fixed mode.

NOTE If you want to use arm trigger, use the :ARM<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:SOUR,
:ARM<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:TIM, :ARM<:ACQ | [:ALL]>:COUN, and :ARM<:ACQ |
[:ALL]>:DEL commands. For more details, see SCPI Command Reference.
Figure 1-3 To Perform Staircase Sweep Output and Measurement
Staircase sweep source :FUNC DC, :CURR:MODE SWE or :VOLT:MODE SWE

Voltage or current
Trigger Trigger :CURR:STOP or :VOLT:STOP
Trigger
Stop value
:TRIG:ACQ:DEL
:SENS:WAIT
:SOUR:WAIT
:TRIG:TRAN:DEL
Previous value : Measurement
Start value :CURR:STAR or :VOLT:STAR
Time
Figure 1-4 To Perform Pulsed Sweep Output and Measurement
Pulsed sweep source :FUNC PULS, :CURR:MODE SWE or :VOLT:MODE SWE

Voltage or current
:CURR:STOP or
Trigger Trigger Trigger
Stop value :VOLT:STOP
:SENS:WAIT
:SOUR:WAIT
:TRIG:ACQ:DEL
:TRIG:TRAN:DEL
:PULS:DEL :CURR:STAR or
Start value :VOLT:STAR
Previous value
:PULS:WIDT : Measurement
Time

Setting the Measurement Wait Time

Measurement wait time is set by the :SENS:WAIT commands. See Figures 1-3 and
1-4 for the wait time.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT OFF") ’Wait = 0 s

ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT:AUTO OFF")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT:OFFS 10E-3") ’Wait = 10 ms
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT:AUTO ON")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT:OFFS 10E-3")
ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:WAIT:GAIN 1")’Wait = 10 ms + initial wait
Performing Sweep Measurement

Staircase sweep measurement is performed as shown below.
1. Set the staircase sweep source and the required source functions. For details, see
“Controlling the Source Output” on page 1-10.
2. Set the required measurement functions. For details, see previous topics in this
section.
3. Set the trigger condition. See “Setting the Source Output Trigger” on page 1-15
and “Setting the Measurement Trigger” on page 1-20.
4. Enable the channel. See “Enabling the Measurement Channel” on page 1-18.
The channel starts output set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command.
5. Execute the :INIT command to start measurement.
For the programming example, see “Staircase Sweep Measurements” on page 2-13.
NOTE To specify the data to obtain, use the :FORM:ELEM:SENS command for the
measurement data or the :FORM:ELEM:CALC command for the calculation data.
Stopping Measurement
Measurement is stopped by the :OUTP OFF command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP OFF")

Using the Math Function
Using the Math Function

This section describes how to use the math function.
• “Defining a Mass Expression”
• “Deleting an User Defined Mass Expression”
• “Enabling or Disabling the Mass Function”
• “Reading Mass Result Data”
Defining a Mass Expression

Mass expression is defined by the :CALC:MATH[:EXPR] commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:NAME ""DiffV""")

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:DEF (SOUR-VOLT)")
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:UNIT ""V""")
Deleting an User Defined Mass Expression

Mass expression is deleted by the :CALC:MATH[:EXPR]:DEL commands. The
commands do not delete the predefined mass expression.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:DEL ""DiffV""") ’Deletes DiffV

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:DEL:ALL") ’Deletes all
Enabling or Disabling the Mass Function

Mass function is set by the :CALC:MATH:STAT command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:STAT ON")
Reading Mass Result Data

Mass result data is read by the :CALC:MATH:DATA? commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:DATA:LAT?") ’Latest data

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:MATH:DATA?") ’All data
NOTE To specify the data to obtain, use the :FORM:ELEM:CALC command.

Performing the Limit Test

Limit test is performed as shown below.
1. Set the required source condition. For details, see “Controlling the Source
Output” on page 1-10.
2. Set the required measurement condition. For details, see “Controlling the
Measurement Function” on page 1-18.
3. Set the composite limit test. See “Setting the Composite Limit Test” on page
1-25.
4. Set the individual limit tests. See “Setting Individual Limit Tests” on page 1-25.
5. Set the trigger condition. See “Setting the Source Output Trigger” on page 1-15
and “Setting the Measurement Trigger” on page 1-20.
6. Enable the channel. See “Enabling the Measurement Channel” on page 1-18.
The channel starts output set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command.
7. Execute the :INIT command to start limit test.
Note that the DC source channel applies the value set by the
:SOUR:<CURR|VOLT>:TRIG command when it is triggered, even if the
channel is applying the value set by the :SOUR:<CURR|VOLT> command.
8. Read limit test result. See “Reading Limit Test Result” on page 1-25.
For the programming example, see “Pass/Fail Judgement and Math Function” on
page 2-33.

Setting the Composite Limit Test

Composite limit test is set by the :CALC:CLIM commands and enabled by the
:CALC:CLIM:STAT ON command. To perform a limit test, at least one individual
limit test must be set and enabled.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:CLIM:CLE") ’Clears result now

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:CLIM:MODE GRAD")’Sets grading mode
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:CLIM:UPD END") ’Sends result at the end
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:CLIM:STAT ON") ’Composite limit test on
NOTE If you want to use the GPIO port for sending a pass/fail bit pattern, use the
:CALC:DIG commands to specify the output port. See SCPI command reference.
If you want to use the null offset function for cancelling the offset value from the
measurement data automatically, use the :CALC:OFFS commands. See SCPI
command reference.
Setting Individual Limit Tests

Individual limit test is set by the :CALC:LIM commands and the :CALC:FEED
command. And each limit test is enabled by the :CALC:LIM:STAT ON command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:FEED CURR") ’Specifies feed data

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:LIM:STAT ON") ’Limit test on
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:LIM:FUNC LIM") ’Selects limit test
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:LIM:UPP +3.5E-2")’Sets upper limit
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:LIM:LOW +3E-2") ’Sets lower limit
Reading Limit Test Result

Limit test result is read by the :CALC:DATA? commands.
Fail status of the individual limit test is read by the :CALC:LIM:FAIL? command.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:DATA:LAT?") ’Latest data

ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:DATA?") ’All data
ioObj.WriteString(":CALC:LIM:FAIL?") ’1:failed, 0:passed
NOTE To specify the data to obtain, use the :FORM:ELEM:CALC command.

Using the Trace Buffer

This section describes how to use the trace buffer.
• “Setting the Trace Buffer”
• “Reading the Trace Data”
Figure 1-5 Trace Buffer and Data Flow

Sense
(Voltage, Current)
VOLT
FETCh? CURR
READ? RES
MEASure? TIME
SENS:DATA? STAT
SOUR
MATH
Feeding
CALC
CALC:MATH:DATA? TIME Limit Test
STAT Offset
Binning
CALC
CALC:DATA? TIME
STAT
Trace
Feeding
VOLT
CURR MEAN
RES SDEV
CALC MIN
TIME MAX
STAT PKPK
SOUR
TRACe:DATA? TRACe:STAT:DATA?

Setting the Trace Buffer

Trace buffer is set by the :TRAC commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:CLE") ’Clears trace buffer

ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:POIN 1000") ’Sets buffer size
ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:FEED SENS") ’Specifies data to feed
ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:FEED:CONT NEXT") ’Enables write buffer
ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:TST:FORM DELT")
NOTE The :TRAC:TST:FORM command is used to specify the timestamp data format,
delta (DELT) or absolute (ABS).
To specify the data to collect, use the :FORM:ELEM:SENS command for the
measurement data or the :FORM:ELEM:CALC command for the calculation data.
Reading the Trace Data

All data in the trace buffer is read by the :TRAC:DATA? command.
Statistical data of the data stored in the trace buffer is read by the
:TRAC:STAT:DATA? command. Previously, the type of the statistical data to read
must be selected by the :TRAC:STAT:FORM command.
The :TRAC:STAT:FORM command selects one from the following statistical data.
• MEAN: Mean value

• SDEV: Standard deviation
• PKPK: Peak to peak value
• MIN: Minimum value
• MAX: Maximum value
Example ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:DATA?") ’Reads all data

ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:STAT:FORM MEAN")
ioObj.WriteString(":TRAC:STAT:DATA?") ’Reads statistical data

Using Program Memory

This section describes how to use program memory.
• “Defining a Memory Program”
• “Deleting a Program”
• “Controlling the Program Operation”
Defining a Memory Program

Memory program is defined by the :PROG:NAME and :PROG:DEF commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:NAME ""sample""")

ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:DEF #213:OUTP:STAT ON") ’Definite length
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:NAME ""sample1""")
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:DEF #0:OUTP:STAT ON") ’Indefinite length
Deleting a Program
Memory program is deleted by the :PROG:DEL commands.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:DEL:ALL") ’Deletes all

ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:NAME ""sample1""")
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:DEL") ’Deletes sample1
Controlling the Program Operation

Memory program is controlled by the :PROG:NAME command and the
:PROG:EXEC or :PROG:STAT command. The :PROG[:SEL]:STAT command
needs a parameter used to control the operation or change the status. The parameter
must be RUN to change the status to running, PAUS to change it to paused, CONT
to change it from paused to running, STOP to change it to stopped, or STEP to
perform step execution.
Example ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:NAME ""sample""")

ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:EXEC")
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:NAME ""sample""")
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:STAT RUN")
ioObj.WriteString("*OPC?") : s = ioObj.ReadString()
ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:STAT STOP")

2 Programming Examples
Programming Examples
This chapter provides the following sections which explain programming example.
• “Preparations”
• “Spot Measurements”
• “Pulsed Spot Measurements”
• “Staircase Sweep Measurements”
• “Pulsed Sweep Measurements”
• “List Sweep Measurements”
• “Pulsed List Sweep Measurements”
• “Sampling Measurements”
• “Pass/Fail Judgement and Math Function”
• “Using Program Memory”
• “Reading Binary Data”
• “Performing MOSFET Id-Vd Measurements”
NOTE About Numeric Suffix

Command header may be accompanied by a numeric suffix c for specifying the
SMU (source/measure unit) channel. c must be 1 for using the channel 1, or 2 for
using the channel 2. Abbreviating c gives the same result as specifying 1.
For example, the :OUTP ON command and the :OUTP1 ON command enable the
channel 1, and the :OUTP2 ON command enables the channel 2.
NOTE About Example Program Code

Example programs described in this section have been written in the Microsoft
Visual Basic .NET language. The examples are provided as a subprogram that can
be run with the project template shown in Table 2-1. To run the program, insert the
example subprogram or your subprogram instead of the B2900control subprogram
in the template.
NOTE To Start Program

If you create the measurement program by using the example code shown in Table
2-1, the program can be run by clicking the Run button on the Visual Basic main
window.

Preparations
Preparations
This section provides the basic information for programming of the automatic
measurement using the Agilent B2900, Agilent IO Libraries, and Microsoft Visual
Basic .NET.
• “To Create Your Project Template”

• “To Create Measurement Program”
NOTE To execute the example programs in this chapter, you need to install Agilent GPIB
interface, Agilent IO Libraries Suite, and Microsoft Visual Basic .NET on your
computer.
To Create Your Project Template

Before starting programming, create your project template, and keep it as your
reference. It will remove the conventional task in the future programming. This
section explains how to create a project template.
Step 1. Connect Agilent B2900 (e.g. GPIB address 23) to the computer via GPIB.
Step 2. Launch Visual Basic .NET and create a new project. The project type should be
Console Application to simplify the programming.
Step 3. Add the following references to the project.
• VISA COM 3.0 Type Library
• Ivi.Visa.Interop
• System.IO
Step 4. Open a module (e.g. Module1.vb) in the project. And enter a program code as
template. See Table 2-1 for example.
Step 5. Save the project as your template (e.g. \test\my_temp).

Preparations
To Create Measurement Program

Create the measurement program as shown below. The following procedure needs
your project template. If the procedure does not fit your programming environment,
arrange it to suit your environment.
Step 1. Plan the automatic measurements. Then decide the following items:
• Measurement devices
Discrete, packaged, on-wafer, and so on.
• Parameters/characteristics to be measured
hFE, Vth, sheet resistance, and so on.
• Measurement method
Spot measurement, staircase sweep measurement, and so on.

Step 2. Make a copy of your project template (e.g. \test\my_temp to \test\dev_a\my_temp).
Step 3. Rename the copy (e.g. \test\dev_a\my_temp to \test\dev_a\spot1V).
Step 4. Launch Visual Basic .NET.

Step 5. Open the project (e.g. \test\dev_a\spot1V).
Step 6. Open the module that contains the template code as shown in Table 2-1. On the code
window, complete the B2900control subprogram.
Step 7. Insert the code to display, store, or calculate data into the subprogram.
Step 8. Save the project (e.g. \test\dev_a\spot1V).

Preparations
Table 2-1 Example Template Program Code
Module Module1

Sub Main() ’1
Dim ifAddress As String = "23"
Dim filename As String = ""
Dim filedata As String = "Result: "
Dim s As String = ""

Try ’9
Try
ioObj.IO = rm.Open("GPIB0::" + ifAddress + "::INSTR")
ioObj.IO.Timeout = 60000
ioObj.IO.TerminationCharacter = 10
ioObj.IO.TerminationCharacterEnabled = True
Catch ex As Exception
Console.WriteLine("An error occurred: " + ex.Message)
End Try

B2900control(ioObj, s, filename) ’21
Console.Write(filedata + s)
MsgBox("Click OK to close the console window.", vbOKOnly, "")

FileOpen(1, filename, OpenMode.Output, OpenAccess.Write,
OpenShare.LockReadWrite) ’25
Print(1, filedata + s)
FileClose(1)

ioObj.IO.Close() ’29
System.Runtime.InteropServices.Marshal.ReleaseComObject(ioObj)
System.Runtime.InteropServices.Marshal.ReleaseComObject(rm)
End Try
End Sub

Sub B2900control(ByVal ioObj As Ivi.Visa.Interop.FormattedIO488, ByRef s As
String, ByRef filename As String) ’37
filename = "C:/temp/resultdata1.txt"
End Sub

End Module
Line Description
1 to 8 Beginning of the Main subprogram. And defines the variables used in this program.
9 to 20 Establishes the connection with the B2900 specified by the GPIB address ifAddress=23 on
the interface GPIB0.

Preparations
Module Module1

Sub Main() ’1
Dim ifAddress As String = "23"
Dim filename As String = ""
Dim filedata As String = "Result: "
Dim s As String = ""

Try ’9
Try
ioObj.IO = rm.Open("GPIB0::" + ifAddress + "::INSTR")
ioObj.IO.Timeout = 60000
ioObj.IO.TerminationCharacter = 10
ioObj.IO.TerminationCharacterEnabled = True
End Try

B2900control(ioObj, s, filename) ’21
Console.Write(filedata + s)
MsgBox("Click OK to close the console window.", vbOKOnly, "")

FileOpen(1, filename, OpenMode.Output, OpenAccess.Write,
OpenShare.LockReadWrite) ’25
Print(1, filedata + s)
FileClose(1)

ioObj.IO.Close() ’29
System.Runtime.InteropServices.Marshal.ReleaseComObject(ioObj)
System.Runtime.InteropServices.Marshal.ReleaseComObject(rm)
End Try
End Sub

Sub B2900control(ByVal ioObj As Ivi.Visa.Interop.FormattedIO488, ByRef s As
String, ByRef filename As String) ’37
filename = "C:/temp/resultdata1.txt"
End Sub

End Module
Line Description
21 to 23 Calls the B2900control subprogram. And displays the result data in a console window.
25 to 27 Saves the result data to a file specified by filename.
29 to 35 Breaks the connection with the B2900.
37 to 39 B2900control subprogram. Measurement program code should be entered here.

Spot Measurements
Spot Measurements
A program example of spot measurements is shown in Table 2-2. This example is
used to apply voltage and measure current.
Spot measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Selects source function [:SOUR[c]]:FUNC:MODE v-or-c

Sets source output range [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:RANG:AUTO <ON | OFF>
[:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:RANG value
Sets source output value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c value
Sets measurement function :SENS[c]:FUNC “func”[, “func”[, “func”]]
Sets measurement range :SENS[c]:func:RANG:AUTO <ON | OFF>
:SENS[c]:func:RANG value
Sets aperture time in seconds :SENS[c]:func:APER time
or by using NPLC value
:SENS[c]:func:NPLC value
Sets limit (compliance) value :SENS[c]:v-or-c:PROT value
Enables/disables channel :OUTP[c] <ON | OFF>
Initiates measurement and :MEAS? [chanlist]
reads result data (latest data)
:MEAS:func? [chanlist]
v-or-c is VOLT for voltage source or limit (compliance), or CURR for current
source or limit (compliance).
func is VOLT for voltage measurement, CURR for current measurement, or RES for
resistance measurement.
type is VOLT for voltage data, CURR for current data, RES for resistance data,
SOUR for source output data, STAT for status data, or TIME for time data.
chanlist is (@1) for selecting the channel 1 only, (@2) for selecting the channel 2
only, or (@1,2), (@1:2), (@2,1), or (@2:1) for selecting both channels 1 and 2.
Abbreviating this parameter sets chanlist=(@1) for the 1-channel models, and
chanlist=(@1,2) for the 2-channel models.

Spot Measurements
Table 2-2 Spot Measurement Example
Sub B2900control(ByVal ioObj As Ivi.Visa.Interop.FormattedIO488, ByRef s As String,

ByRef filename As String)
filename = "C:/temp/FixedDc1.txt" ’2

ioObj.WriteString("*RST") ’ Reset

Try ’ Set voltage output to 0.1 V ’6
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:func:mode volt")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt 0.1")

’ Set auto-range current measurement
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:func ""curr""") ’11
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:rang:auto on")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:nplc 0.1")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:prot 0.1")

End Try

’ Turn on output switch
ioObj.WriteString(":outp on") ’21

Try ’ Initiate measurement and retrieve measurement result ’23
ioObj.WriteString(":meas:curr? (@1)")
s = ioObj.ReadString()

End Try
End Sub
Line Description
2 Defines the file name used for saving the result data.
4 Resets the B2900.
6 to 8 Sets the voltage source function. And sets the source value to 0.1 V.
11 to 14 Sets the current measurement function and the auto range measurement. And sets the
aperture time to 0.1 PLC and the current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A.
21 Enables the channel. And starts source output.
23 to 25 Reads the measurement result data.
Measurement Result: +3.034160E-02

Result Example

Pulsed Spot Measurements

A program example of pulsed spot measurements is shown in Table 2-3. This
example is used to apply pulsed voltage and measure current three times.
Pulsed spot measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets pulse output [:SOUR[c]]:FUNC[:SHAP] PULS
Sets pulse peak value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:TRIG value
Sets pulse delay time [:SOUR[c]]:PULS:DEL time
Sets pulse width [:SOUR[c]]:PULS:WIDT time
Sets aperture time in seconds :SENS[c]:func:APER time

or by using NPLC value
Selects trigger source :TRIG[c]<:ACQ | :TRAN | [:ALL]>:SOUR

source
Sets interval of timer trigger :TRIG[c]<:ACQ | :TRAN | [:ALL]>:TIM time
Sets trigger count :TRIG[c]<:ACQ | :TRAN | [:ALL]>:COUN

value
Sets trigger delay time :TRIG[c]<:ACQ | :TRAN | [:ALL]>:DEL time

Function Command
Initiates specified action :INIT<:ACQ | :TRAN | [:ALL]> [chanlist]
Reads result data (latest data) :FETC[:SCAL]? [chanlist]
:FETC[:SCAL]:type? [chanlist]
Reads result data (array data) :FETC:ARR? [chanlist]
:FETC:ARR:type? [chanlist]
source is AINT for the automatic trigger, BUS for the remote interface trigger
command, TIM for the internal timer, INTn for a signal from the internal bus (n=1
or 2), EXTm for a signal from the GPIO pin m (m=1 to 14), or LAN for the LXI
trigger.

Table 2-3 Pulsed Spot Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/FixedPulse1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage pulse output
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:func:mode volt") ’7
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:func:shap puls")

’ Set base/peak voltages to 0.0/0.1 V
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt 0") ’11
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:trig 0.1")

’ Set delay/width to 500 us/1 ms
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:puls:del 0.5e-3") ’15
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:puls:widt 1.0e-3")

’ Set 100 mA fixed-range current measurement
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:rang:auto off")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:rang 100e-3")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:aper 1e-4")

’ Adjust trigger timing parameters
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:tran:del 1.5e-3") ’26
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:acq:del 2.9e-3")
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.
7 to 8 Sets the voltage source function. And sets the pulse output function.
11 to 12 Sets the pulse base voltage and the pulse peak voltage.
15 to 16 Sets the pulse delay time and the pulse width.
19 to 23 Sets the current measurement function and the 100 mA fixed range measurement. And
sets the aperture time to 0.1 ms and the current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A.
26 to 27 Sets the transient (source) delay time and the acquire (measurement) delay time.

’ Generate 3 triggers in 4 ms period

ioObj.WriteString(":trig:sour tim") ’30
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:tim 4e-3")
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:coun 3")

End Try


’ Initiate transition and acquire
ioObj.WriteString(":init (@1)") ’42

Try ’ Retrieve measurement result ’44
ioObj.WriteString(":fetc:arr:curr? (@1)")

End Try
End Sub
Line Description
30 to 32 Sets the timer trigger source. And sets the trigger interval to 4 ms, and the trigger count
to 3. The B2900 will perform the pulsed spot measurement three times.
39 Enables the channel. And starts source output.
42 Starts pulse output and pulsed spot measurement.

Measurement Result: +3.033990E-02,+3.034060E-02,+3.034120E-02

Result Example

Staircase Sweep Measurements

A program example of staircase sweep measurements is shown in Table 2-4. This
example is used to apply sweep voltage and measure current at each sweep step.
Staircase sweep measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets sweep output [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:MODE SWE
Sets output range when starting sweep [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:RANG value
Sets sweep start or stop value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:<STAR | STOP> value
Sets sweep center or span value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:<CENT | SPAN> value
Sets sweep step value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:STEP value
Sets number of sweep steps [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:POIN value
[:SOUR[c]]:SWE:POIN value
Selects sweep source ranging mode [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:RANG <BEST | FIX |

AUTO>
Selects sweep direction [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:DIR <UP | DOWN>
Selects sweep linear or log [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:SPAC <LIN | LOG>
Selects sweep single or double [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:STA <SING | DOUB>
Sets aperture time in seconds or by :SENS[c]:func:APER time

using NPLC value

Function Command

source

value

trigger.
Measurement Result: +1.842730E-07,+6.775910E-03,+1.519010E-02,+2.277660E-02,+

Result Example 3.036230E-02

Table 2-4 Staircase Sweep Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/StaircaseSweep1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage output from 0 V to 0.1 V, 5 steps ’6
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:mode swe")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:star 0")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:stop 0.1")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:poin 5")


’ Generate 5 triggers by automatic internal algorithm
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:sour aint") ’19

End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.
6 to 11 Sets the voltage sweep output function. And sets the sweep output from 0 to 0.1 V in
0.02 V step (5 points).
14 to 16 Sets the current measurement function. And sets the aperture time to 0.1 PLC and the
current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A. Auto range is ON with the default setting.


filename = "C:/temp/StaircaseSweep1.txt" ’2





End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
19 to 20 Sets the trigger source to AINT (automatic trigger). And sets the trigger count to 5 to
perform a 5-step staircase sweep measurement.
27 Enables the channel. And starts source output (0 V with the default setting).
30 Starts staircase sweep measurement.


Pulsed Sweep Measurements

A program example of pulsed sweep measurements is shown in Table 2-5. This
example is used to apply pulsed sweep voltage and measure current at each sweep
step.
Pulsed sweep measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets sweep output [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:MODE SWE
Sets output range when starting sweep [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:RANG value
Sets sweep start or stop value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:<STAR | STOP> value
Sets sweep center or span value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:<CENT | SPAN> value
Sets sweep step value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:STEP value
Sets number of sweep steps [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:POIN value
[:SOUR[c]]:SWE:POIN value
Selects sweep source ranging mode [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:RANG <BEST | FIX |

AUTO>
Selects sweep direction [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:DIR <UP | DOWN>
Selects sweep linear or log [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:SPAC <LIN | LOG>
Selects sweep single or double [:SOUR[c]]:SWE:STA <SING | DOUB>

Function Command
Sets aperture time in seconds or by :SENS[c]:func:APER time

using NPLC value

source

value

trigger.

Table 2-5 Pulsed Sweep Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/StaircasePulsedSweep1.txt" ’2





Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.
6 to 12 Sets the voltage pulse sweep output function. And sets the sweep output from 0 to 0.1
V in 0.02 V step (5 points).




End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
to 5 to perform a 5-step pulsed sweep measurement.
42 Starts pulsed sweep measurement.


Result Example 3.035860E-02

List Sweep Measurements

A program example of list sweep measurements is shown in Table 2-6. This
example is used to apply sweep voltage and measure current at each sweep step.
List sweep measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets list sweep output [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:MODE LIST
Sets list sweep output values [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c values
Adds list sweep output values to [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:APP values

the end of the present setting
Specifies the list sweep start point [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:STAR start_index
Asks the number of sweep points [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:POIN?
Sets aperture time in seconds or :SENS[c]:func:APER time

by using NPLC value

source

Function Command

value
trigger.

Table 2-6 List Sweep Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/ListSweep1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage output to 0.03, 0.06, and 0.1 V ’6
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:mode list")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:list:volt 0.03,0.06,0.1")



End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.

6 to 9 Sets the voltage list sweep output function. And sets the list sweep output 0.03 V,
0.06 V, and 0.1 V (3 points).
12 to 14 Sets the current measurement function. And sets the aperture time to 0.1 PLC and the
current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A. Auto range is ON with the default setting.


filename = "C:/temp/ListSweep1.txt" ’2





End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
17 to 18 Sets the trigger source to AINT (automatic trigger). And sets the trigger count to 3 to
perform a 3-point list sweep measurement.
28 Starts list sweep measurement.

Result Example

Pulsed List Sweep Measurements

A program example of pulsed list sweep measurements is shown in Table 2-7. This
example is used to apply pulsed sweep voltage and measure current at each sweep
step.
Pulsed list sweep measurements can be performed by using the following
commands.
Function Command
Sets list sweep output [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:MODE LIST
Sets list sweep output values [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c values
Adds list sweep output values to [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:APP values

the end of the present setting
Specifies the list sweep start point [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:STAR start_index
Asks the number of sweep points [:SOUR[c]]:LIST:v-or-c:POIN?

by using NPLC value

Function Command

source

value

trigger.

Table 2-7 Pulsed List Sweep Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/ListPulsedSweep1.txt" ’2





Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.
6 to 10 Sets the voltage pulse list sweep output function. And sets the pulsed list sweep output
0.03 V, 0.06 V, and 0.1 V (3 points). Pulse base value is 0 V with the default setting.



End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
to 3 to perform a 3-point pulsed list sweep measurement.
40 Starts pulsed list sweep measurement.


Result Example

Sampling Measurements
A program example of sampling measurements is shown in Table 2-8. This example
is used to apply constant voltage and measure current six times.
Sampling measurements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets triggered source output value [:SOUR[c]]:v-or-c:TRIG value

by using NPLC value

source

value

Function Command
trigger.

Table 2-8 Sampling Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/Sampling1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage output ’6
’ Set triggered voltage to 0.1 V 
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:trig 0.1") 
’ Set auto-range current measurement 
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:acq:del 2.0e-3") ’15

End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.

6 to 9 Sets the voltage output function. And sets the bias voltage to 0.1 V.
11 to 13 Sets the current measurement function and the auto range measurement. And sets the
aperture time to 0.1 PLC and the current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A.
15 Sets the acquire (measurement) delay time.


filename = "C:/temp/Sampling1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage output ’6
’ Set triggered voltage to 0.1 V 
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:trig 0.1") 
’ Set auto-range current measurement 
ioObj.WriteString(":trig:acq:del 2.0e-3") ’15

End Try




End Try
End Sub
Line Description
17 to 19 Sets the timer trigger source. And sets the timer interval to 4 ms, and the trigger count
to 6 to perform a 6-point sampling measurement.
29 Starts sampling measurement.

Result Example 3.036300E-02,+3.036270E-02

Pass/Fail Judgement and Math Function

A program example of pass/fail judgements is shown in Table 2-9. This example is
used to perform power vs voltage sweep measurement and performs pass/fail
judgement. Power is calculated by using the built-in math function.
Math function can be set by using the following commands.
Function Command
Specifies math expression :CALC[c]:MATH:NAME “name”
Defines math expression :CALC[c]:MATH:DEF definition
Sets unit for the math expression :CALC[c]:MATH:UNIT
Enables/disables math function :CALC[c]:MATH:STAT <ON | OFF>
Pass/fail judgements can be performed by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets composite limit test mode to :CALC[c]:CLIM:MODE <GRAD | SORT>

grading or sorting
Specifies test result output timing for :CALC[c]:CLIM:UPD <END | IMM>

the grading mode, end or immediate
Enables/disables composite limit test :CALC[c]:CLIM:STAT <ON | OFF>
Specifies limit test feed data :CALC[c]:FEED type
Sets compliance check or limit test :CALC[c]:LIM:FUNC <COMP | LIM>
Sets limit test lower or upper limit :CALC[c]:LIM:<LOW | UPP> value
Sets compliance fail condition :CALC[c]:LIM:COMP:FAIL <OUT | IN>
Enables/disables limit test :CALC[c]:LIM:STAT <ON | OFF>
Asks limit test result pass or fail :CALC[c]:LIM:FAIL?
type is VOLT for voltage measurement data, CURR for current measurement data,
RES for resistance measurement data, or MATH for math result data.

Table 2-9 Pass/Fail Judgement Example

filename = "C:/temp/Judgement1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set voltage sweep from 0.0 V to 0.1 V, 201 linear steps ’6
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:volt:star 0.0")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:swe:spac lin")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour:swe:sta sing")

’ Set current limit to 100 mA
ioObj.WriteString(":sens:curr:prot 0.1") ’16

’ Enable predefined math expression power (voltage * current)
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:math:name ""POWER""") ’19
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:math:stat on")

’ Set limit test mode to "Grading"
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:clim:mode grad") ’23
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:clim:upd end")
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:clim:stat on")

’ Feed math result and judge it is in +/-5 mW or not
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:feed math") ’28
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:lim1:stat on")
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:lim1:func lim")
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:lim1:low -5.0e-3")
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:lim1:upp +5.0e-3")
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.

6 to 13 Sets the voltage sweep output function. And sets the sweep output from 0 to 0.1 V, 201
points. Also sets the linear increment and single sweep.
16 Sets the current limit (compliance) value to 0.1 A.
19 to 20 Enables POWER math function.

23 to 25 Enables composite limit test of grading mode.
28 to 32 Enables limit test 1 which judges if POWER is between -5 mW and +5 mW.

’ Set arm count to 1, trigger count to 201

ioObj.WriteString(":arm:coun 1") ’35

End Try



’ Wait for operation complete
ioObj.WriteString("*OPC?") ’49
Console.Write("*OPC?: " + d)
Console.WriteLine()

Try ’ Retrieve measurement result (not bin numbers) ’54
ioObj.WriteString(":calc:data?")

ioObj.WriteString(":calc:lim1:fail?") ’58
d = ioObj.ReadString()
If d = 0 Then
Else
End If

End Try
End Sub
Line Description
35 to 36 Sets the arm count to 1, and the trigger count to 201 to perform a 201-step staircase
sweep measurement.
46 Starts staircase sweep measurement.
49 to 52 Waits for operation complete. And write “*OPC?: 1” on the console window when the
operation is completed.

58 to 65 Reads the judgement result. And write “PASS” or “FAIL” on the console window.

Measurement Result: -2.341916E-10,+8.687035E-08,+3.241116E-07,+7.134239E-07,+

Result Example 1.258200E-06,+1.947869E-06,+2.790977E-06,+3.793277E-06,+4.929483E
-06,+6.228402E-06,+7.677595E-06,+9.279485E-06,+1.103210E-05,+1.29
3916E-05,+1.499512E-05,+1.721203E-05,+1.957131E-05,+2.207869E-05,
+2.467268E-05,+2.755153E-05,+3.052130E-05,+3.363800E-05,+3.691760
E-05,+4.033103E-05,+4.390036E-05,+4.762392E-05,+5.151573E-05,+5.5
53805E-05,+5.972507E-05,+6.405285E-05,+6.851899E-05,+7.315973E-05
,+7.794760E-05,+8.288631E-05,+8.796509E-05,+9.320610E-05,+9.86047
9E-05,+1.041754E-04,+1.098613E-04,+1.157115E-04,+1.215744E-04,+1.
278577E-04,+1.341738E-04,+1.406063E-04,+1.472060E-04,+1.539637E-0
4,+1.608716E-04,+1.679319E-04,+1.751681E-04,+1.825232E-04,+1.9004
83E-04,+1.977296E-04,+2.055358E-04,+2.135138E-04,+2.216522E-04,+2
.298863E-04,+2.383193E-04,+2.468891E-04,+2.556029E-04,+2.645003E-
04,+2.735255E-04,+2.826991E-04,+2.919260E-04,+3.015675E-04,+3.112
219E-04,+3.209985E-04,+3.309458E-04,+3.410295E-04,+3.512634E-04,+
3.616291E-04,+3.720819E-04,+3.827504E-04,+3.936007E-04,+4.045787E
-04,+4.157298E-04,+4.270301E-04,+4.384635E-04,+4.501420E-04,+4.61
8862E-04,+4.738464E-04,+4.859040E-04,+4.981206E-04,+5.104463E-04,
+5.229651E-04,+5.356430E-04,+5.484076E-04,+5.614119E-04,+5.744722
E-04,+5.877991E-04,+6.011935E-04,+6.148205E-04,+6.285388E-04,+6.4
24530E-04,+6.564842E-04,+6.706918E-04,+6.850603E-04,+6.995474E-04
,+7.141454E-04,+7.289117E-04,+7.438255E-04,+7.589229E-04,+7.74165
5E-04,+7.895723E-04,+8.051391E-04,+8.208203E-04,+8.367055E-04,+8.
526876E-04,+8.688672E-04,+8.852325E-04,+9.016407E-04,+9.182453E-0
4,+9.349851E-04,+9.518914E-04,+9.689457E-04,+9.861478E-04,+1.0035
23E-03,+1.021063E-03,+1.038796E-03,+1.056637E-03,+1.074605E-03,+1
.092708E-03,+1.110964E-03,+1.129434E-03,+1.147996E-03,+1.166662E-
03,+1.185524E-03,+1.204595E-03,+1.223783E-03,+1.243249E-03,+1.262
697E-03,+1.282301E-03,+1.302063E-03,+1.321965E-03,+1.342132E-03,+
1.362347E-03,+1.382697E-03,+1.403252E-03,+1.424084E-03,+1.444900E
-03,+1.465962E-03,+1.487102E-03,+1.508430E-03,+1.529923E-03,+1.55
1453E-03,+1.573165E-03,+1.595088E-03,+1.617097E-03,+1.639334E-03,
+1.661768E-03,+1.684316E-03,+1.707018E-03,+1.729902E-03,+1.752875
E-03,+1.776006E-03,+1.799316E-03,+1.822720E-03,+1.846251E-03,+1.8
69993E-03,+1.893788E-03,+1.917864E-03,+1.941986E-03,+1.966472E-03
,+1.990904E-03,+2.015598E-03,+2.040341E-03,+2.065370E-03,+2.09054
9E-03,+2.115705E-03,+2.141095E-03,+2.166588E-03,+2.192289E-03,+2.
218138E-03,+2.244184E-03,+2.270309E-03,+2.296767E-03,+2.323176E-0
3,+2.349848E-03,+2.376582E-03,+2.403580E-03,+2.430636E-03,+2.4578
34E-03,+2.485222E-03,+2.512773E-03,+2.540283E-03,+2.568170E-03,+2
.596157E-03,+2.624402E-03,+2.652645E-03,+2.681054E-03,+2.709752E-
03,+2.738454E-03,+2.767308E-03,+2.796405E-03,+2.825400E-03,+2.854
952E-03,+2.884357E-03,+2.914004E-03,+2.943753E-03,+2.973740E-03,+
3.003983E-03,+3.034236E-03


A program example for using program memory is shown in Table 2-10. This
example is used to store a program in the program memory and execute it.
Program memory can be set and controlled by using the following commands.
Function Command
Returns the names of all programs defined :PROG:CAT?

in the program memory
Specifies memory program :PROG:NAME “name”
Defines memory program a :PROG:DEF program_code
Adds program code to the end of the :PROG:APP program_code

memory program a
Sets a value to the variable specified by n b :PROG:VARn “value”
Executes memory program a :PROG:EXEC
Changes status of memory program a :PROG:STAT operation
Blocks other commands until the program :PROG:WAIT? timeout_in_seconds

execution status changes to Paused or
Stopped a
Deletes a memory program a :PROG:DEL
Deletes all memory programs :PROG:DEL:ALL

a. This function is effective for the memory program previously specified
by the :PROG:NAME command.
b. Variables can be used in the memory program. They must be expressed
as %n% (n: integer. 1 to 100) in the memory program.
operation is RUN to change to the running status, PAUS to change to the paused
status, CONT to change to the running status, STOP to change to the stopped status,
or STEP to perform step execution.

Table 2-10 Example to Use Program Memory

filename = "C:/temp/ProgramMemory1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Build program ’6
Dim program As String = ""
program = ":sour:func:mode curr\n"
program += ":sour:curr:mode swe\n"
program += ":sour:curr:star 0.0\n"
program += ":sour:curr:stop 40e-3\n"
program += ":sour:curr:poin 21\n"
program += ":sens:func ""volt""\n"
program += ":sens:curr:nplc 0.1\n"
program += ":arm:coun 1\n"
program += ":trig:coun 21\n"
program += ":outp 1\n"
program += ":init (@1)\n"

’ Get program length
Dim sProgramLength As String = String.Format("{0:#}", program.Length) ’21

ioObj.WriteString(":prog:name ""sample""") ’23
ioObj.WriteString(":prog:def #" + sProgramLength.Length.ToString() +
sProgramLength + program)

End Try
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.
6 to 18 Enters program code to the “program” variable. The program is for performing current
source voltage measure sweep measurement from 0 A to 40 mA, 21 points, with the
aperture time 0.1 PLC.
21 Gets the program length (number of characters in the “program” variable).
23 to 24 Stores the program code to the program memory as the program name “sample”.

’ Run program
ioObj.WriteString(":prog:stat run") ’31

’ Wait for operation complete
ioObj.WriteString("*OPC?") ’34
Console.Write("*OPC?: " + s)

ioObj.WriteString(":fetch:arr:volt? (@1)")

End Try
End Sub
Line Description
31 Executes the memory program.
34 to 37 Waits for operation complete. And write “*OPC?: 1” on the console window when the
operation is completed.
Measurement Result: -7.480000E-05,+6.524500E-03,+1.311680E-02,+1.971080E-02,+

Result Example 2.630190E-02,+3.289570E-02,+3.948990E-02,+4.607940E-02,+5.266580E
-02,+5.926410E-02,+6.585490E-02,+7.244700E-02,+7.903250E-02,+8.56
2770E-02,+9.221940E-02,+9.880730E-02,+1.053949E-01,+1.119873E-01,
+1.185849E-01,+1.251736E-01,+1.317632E-01

Reading Binary Data
Reading Binary Data

A program example for reading binary data is shown in Table 2-11. This example is
used to read data in the ASCII format and the 8-byte binary format.
For performing a staircase sweep measurement, replace the program code from lines
32 to 38 shown in Table 2-4 with the code shown in Table 2-11.
Data output format can be controlled by using the following commands.
Function Command
Sets the data output format :FORM[:DATA] format
Sets byte order of binary data :FORM:BORD byte_order
format is ASC for the ASCII data output format, REAL,32 for the IEEE-754 single
precision format (4-byte data), or REAL,64 for the IEEE-754 double precision
format (8-byte data).
byte_order is NORM for the normal byte order from byte 1 to byte 4 or 8, or SWAP
for the reverse byte order from byte 4 or 8 to byte 1.
Measurement Result: V (V), I (A), Time (sec), Status: -5.88E-05,2.85297E-06,0

Result Example .021938,21120.0222637,0.006749,0.030997,36480.0499995,0.0151897,0
.037096,41600.0750008,0.022776,0.041071,41600.0999998,0.0303624,0
.045048,4160

Reading Binary Data
Table 2-11 Example to Read Binary Data
’ Select measure data elements

ioObj.WriteString(":form:elem:sens volt,curr,time,stat") ’2

’ Retrieve measurement result & Output measurement result(Ascii format) ’4
ioObj.WriteString(":form asc")
ioObj.WriteString(":fetch:arr? (@1)")
Dim numOfElem As Integer = 4 'V, I, Time, Status
Dim data(numOfElem * trigCount - 1)
data = ioObj.ReadList(Ivi.Visa.Interop.IEEEASCIIType.ASCIIType_Any, ",")

Dim value As String = "V (V), I (A), Time (sec), Status: "
s = value
Console.WriteLine("ASCII format")
Console.WriteLine(value)
For i = LBound(data) To UBound(data)
If (i + 1) Mod numOfElem = 0 Then
Console.WriteLine(data(i).ToString())
s = s + data(i).ToString()
Else
Console.Write(data(i).ToString() + ",")
s = s + data(i).ToString() + ","
End If
Next


’ Retrieve measurement result & Output measurement result(Real64 format) ’27
Console.WriteLine("REAL64 format")
Console.WriteLine(value)
ioObj.WriteString(":form real,64")
ioObj.WriteString(":fetch:arr? (@1)")
Dim data64
data64 = ioObj.ReadIEEEBlock(Ivi.Visa.Interop.IEEEBinaryType.BinaryType_R8, False,
True)
For i = LBound(data64) To UBound(data64)
If (i + 1) Mod numOfElem = 0 Then
Console.WriteLine(data64(i).ToString())
Else
Console.Write(data64(i).ToString() + ",")
End If
Next
Line Description
2 Specifies the data to return. This example selects voltage measurement data, current
measurement data, time data, and status data.
4 to 23 Reads the measurement result data in the ASCII format.
27 to 40 Reads the measurement result data in the REAL,64 format.

Performing MOSFET Id-Vd Measurements

Table 2-12 shows a programming example for measuring MOSFET Id-Vd
characteristics. This example uses two channels.
The channel 1 performs the primary sweep output to apply the drain voltage, and
measures the drain current at each sweep step.
The channel 2 performs the secondary sweep output to apply the gate voltage. The
secondary sweep is realized by using the list sweep function.
The channels should be connected to the device as shown below.
Channel Terminal Connection
1 High Force MOSFET drain terminal
High Sense
Low Force MOSFET source and substrate terminals
Low Sense
2 High Force MOSFET gate terminal
High Sense
Low Force MOSFET source and substrate terminals
Low Sense
Measurement Result:
Result Example -2.102110E-06,+1.149380E-03,+1.827990E-03,+2.150970E-03,+2.272340
E-03,+2.313980E-03,+2.333310E-03,+2.346400E-03,+2.356810E-03,+2.3
65510E-03,+2.373160E-03,-1.332470E-05,+2.465270E-03,+4.501590E-03
,+6.113420E-03,+7.326210E-03,+8.180630E-03,+8.736170E-03,+9.07385
0E-03,+9.283210E-03,+9.427320E-03,+9.536790E-03,-2.731010E-05,+3.
513460E-03,+6.642130E-03,+9.363240E-03,+1.167520E-02,+1.359510E-0
2,+1.513140E-02,+1.631180E-02,+1.717590E-02,+1.778500E-02,+1.8216
90E-02

Table 2-12 MOSFET Id-Vd Measurement Example

filename = "C:/temp/MOSFETId-Vd1.txt" ’2


Try ’ Set primary sweep 0 V to 3 V, 11 points ’6
ioObj.WriteString(":sour1:func:mode volt")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour1:volt:mode swe")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour1:volt:star 0")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour1:volt:stop 3")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour1:volt:poin 11")

’ Set secondary sweep 1 V to 3 V, 3 steps, 33 points
Dim vg As String = "" ’14
vg = "1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1," ’ for 1st staircase sweep measurement
vg += "2,2,2,2,2,2,2,2,2,2,2," ’ for 2nd staircase sweep measurement
vg += "3,3,3,3,3,3,3,3,3,3,3" ’ for 3rd staircase sweep measurement
ioObj.WriteString(":sour2:func:mode volt")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour2:volt:mode list")
ioObj.WriteString(":sour2:list:volt " + vg)

ioObj.WriteString(":sens1:func ""curr""") ’23
ioObj.WriteString(":sens1:curr:nplc 0.1")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens1:curr:prot 0.1")
ioObj.WriteString(":sens2:curr:prot 0.01") ’26
Line Description
4 Resets the B2900.

6 to 11 Sets the channel 1 to the primary sweep source. And sets the sweep output from 0 to 3
V in 0.3 V step (11 points).
14 to 20 Sets the channel 2 to the secondary sweep source. And sets the sweep output from 1 to
3 V in 1 V step (3 steps, 33 points to perform 11-step staircase sweep measurement
three times).
23 to 25 Sets the channel 1 measurement function to the current measurement. And sets the
aperture time to 0.1 PLC and the current limit (compliance) value to 100 mA. Auto
range is ON with the default setting.
26 Sets the channel 2 current limit (compliance) value to 10 mA.


ioObj.WriteString(":trig1:sour aint") ’29
ioObj.WriteString(":trig1:coun 33")
ioObj.WriteString(":trig2:sour aint")
ioObj.WriteString(":trig2:coun 33")

End Try

ioObj.WriteString(":outp1 on") ’39
ioObj.WriteString(":outp2 on")

ioObj.WriteString(":init (@1,2)") ’43


End Try
End Sub
Line Description
29 to 32 For the channels 1 and 2, sets the trigger source to AINT (automatic trigger). And sets
the trigger count to 33 to perform the 11-step staircase sweep measurement three times.
39 to 40 Enables the channels 1 and 2. And starts source output (0 V with the default setting).
43 Starts MOSFET Id-Vd measurement.

B2900A Prog

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B2900A Prog

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Agilent B2900 Series

• “Controlling the Agilent B2900”

1. Controlling the Agilent B2900

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Setting the Sweep Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Reading Mass Result Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Performing MOSFET Id-Vd Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Angle Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations. For

Vertical bar | Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example,

Square Items within square brackets are optional. The representation

Parentheses ( ) Items within parentheses are used in place of the usual

Braces { } Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more

1- 2 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

• Agilent IO Libraries Suite software

Connecting to the Interface

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 3

Starting the Instrument Control

The address value depends on the interface as shown below.

• For using the GPIB interface

1- 4 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Controlling Various Functions

• “Setting the Power Frequency”

Setting the Power Frequency

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:LFR 50") ’50 Hz

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 5

Resetting to the Initial Settings

Setting the Beeper

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:BEEP:STAT ON") ’Enables beep

Setting the Date and Time

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:DATE 2011,1,1") ’Y,M,D

Performing the Self-Test

Performing the Self-Calibration

1- 6 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Setting the Operations at Power On

Example ioObj.WriteString(":PROG:PON:COPY ""program1""")

Reading an Error Message

Clearing the Error Buffer

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 7

Setting the Automatic Clear of Timestamp

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SYST:TIME:TIM:COUN:RES:AUTO ON")

Confirming the Firmware Revision

1- 8 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Setting the Remote Display Mode

Example ioObj.WriteString(":DISP:ENAB ON")

Making a Screen Dump

Example ioObj.WriteString(":DISP:ENAB ON")

Performing a File Operation

Example ioObj.WriteString(":MMEM:CAT?") ’Gets file catalog

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 9

Controlling the Source Output

1- 10 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Enabling the Source Output

Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP ON")

Setting the Source Output Mode

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR") ’Current output

Applying the DC Voltage/Current

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:MODE CURR")

Stopping the Source Output

Example ioObj.WriteString(":OUTP OFF")

Setting the Limit/Compliance Value

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SENS:CURR:PROT 0.1") ’100 mA compliance

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 11

Setting the Output Range

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:VOLT:RANG:AUTO OFF")

Setting the Pulse Output

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:FUNC:SHAP PULS")

NOTE Outputting the pulse voltage/current

1- 12 Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2

Setting the Sweep Operation

Example ioObj.WriteString(":SOUR:SWE:DIR DOWN")

Figure 1-1 Variety of Sweep Outputs

DC output Pulse output DC output Pulse output

Agilent B2900 Programming Guide, Edition 2 1- 13