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Caution
Use the following procedure when turning off the 42841A:

1. Turn off the DC bias current output.
2. Disconnect a DTU (Device Under Test) from the test fixture.
3. Turn off the 42841A LINE ON/OFF switch.

If turning off the 42841A power with a DUT connected, the 42841A
internal circuit may be damaged.
Safety Summary
When you notice any of the unusual conditions listed below, immediately
terminate operation and disconnect the power cable.
Contact your local Agilent Technologies sales representative or
authorized service company for repair of the instrument. If you continue
to operate without repairing the instrument, there is a potential fire or
shock hazard for the operator.

n Instrument operates abnormally.
n Instrument emits abnormal noise, smell, smoke or a spark-like light
during the operation.
n Instrument generates high temperature or electrical shock during
operation.
n Power cable, plug, or receptacle on instrument is damaged.
n Foreign substance or liquid has fallen into the instrument.
Agilent 42841A BIAS CURRENT SOURCE

OPERATION MANUAL

SERIAL NUMBERS

This manual applies directly to instruments with serial number pre x
2915J
For additional important information about serial numbers, read
\Serial Number" in Chapter 4 of this Manual.

Agilent Part No. 42841-90010
Printed in JAPAN March 2000

Fifth Edition
Notice The information contained in this document is subject to change
without notice.
This document contains proprietary information that is protected by
copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be
photocopied, reproduced, or translated to another language without
the prior written consent of the Agilent Technologies.

Agilent Technologies Japan, Ltd.
Component Test PGU-Kobe
1-3-2, Murotani, Nishi-ku, Kobe-shi,
Hyogo, 651-2241 Japan

Copyright 1989, 1991, 1996, 2000 Agilent Technologies Japan, Ltd.
c
Manual Printing The manual printing date and part number indicate its current
History
edition. The printing date changes when a new edition is printed.
(Minor corrections and updates that are incorporated at reprint do
not cause the date to change.) The manual part number changes
when extensive technical changes are incorporated.
April 1989 : : : : : : : : : : : : : : First Edition (part number: 42841-90000)
April 1991 : : : : : : : : : : : : Second Edition (part number: 42841-90000)
December 1991 : : : : : : : : Third Edition (part number: 42841-90000)
December 1996 : : : : : : : Fourth Edition (part number: 42841-90000)
March 2000 : : : : : : : : : : : : : Fifth Edition (part number: 42841-90010)

iii
Certification Agilent Technologies certi es that this product met its published
speci cations at the time of shipment from the factory. Agilent
Technologies further certi es that its calibration measurements are
traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and
Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institution's calibration
facility, or to the calibration facilities of other International
Standards Organization members.

Warranty This Agilent Technologies instrument product is warranted against
defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from
the date of shipment, except that in the case of certain components
listed in General Information of this manual, the warranty shall
be for the speci ed period. During the warranty period, Agilent
Technologies will, at its option, either repair or replace products that
prove to be defective.
For warranty service or repair, this product must be returned
to a service facility designated by Agilent Technologies. Buyer
shall prepay shipping charges to Agilent Technologies and Agilent
Technologies shall pay shipping charges to return the product to
Buyer. However, Buyer shall pay all shipping charges, duties, and
taxes for products returned to Agilent Technologies from another
country.
Agilent Technologies warrants that its software and rmware
designated by Agilent Technologies for use with an instrument will
execute its programming instruction when property installed on that
instrument. Agilent Technologies does not warrant that the operation
of the instrument, or software, or rmware will be uninterrupted or
error free.

Limitation Of The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from
Warranty
improper or inadequate maintenance by Buyer, Buyer-supplied
software or interfacing, unauthorized modi cation or misuse,
operation outside the environmental speci cations for the product, or
improper site preparation or maintenance.
No other warranty is expressed or implied. Agilent Technologies
speci cally disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and
tness for a particular purpose.

iv
Exclusive Remedies The remedies provided herein are buyer's sole and exclusive remedies.
Agilent Technologies shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages, whether based on contract, tort,
or any other legal theory.

Assistance Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance
agreements are available for Agilent Technologies products.
For any assistance, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales
and Service Oce. Addresses are provided at the back of this
manual.

v
Safety Summary The following general safety precautions must be observed during all
phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Failure
to comply with these precautions or with speci c WARNINGS
elsewhere in this manual may impair the protection provided by
the equipment. In addition it violates safety standards of design,
manufacture, and intended use of the instrument.
The Agilent Technologies assumes no liability for the customer's
failure to comply with these requirements.
Note 42841A comply with INSTALLATION CATEGORY II and
POLLUTION DEGREE 2 in IEC1010-1. 42841A are INDOOR USE
product.

Note LEDs in this product are Class 1 in accordance with IEC825-1.
CLASS 1 LED PRODUCT

Ground The Instrument To avoid electric shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet
must be connected to a safety earth ground by the supplied power
cable with earth blade.
DO NOT Operate In An Do not operate the instrument in the presence of ammable gasses or
Explosive Atmosphere fumes. Operation of any electrical instrument in such an environment
constitutes a de nite safety hazard.

Keep Away From Live Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Component
Circuits replacement and internal adjustments must be made by quali ed
maintenance personnel. Do not replace components with the power
cable connected. Under certain conditions, dangerous voltages may
exist even with the power cable removed. To avoid injuries, always
disconnect power and discharge circuits before touching them.

DO NOT Service Or Do not attempt internal service or adjustment unless another person,
Adjust Alone capable of rendering rst aid and resuscitation, is present.

DO NOT Substitute Because of the danger of introducing additional hazards, do not
Parts Or Modify install substitute parts or perform unauthorized modi cations to the
Instrument instrument. Return the instrument to a Agilent Technologies Sales
and Service Oce for service and repair to ensure that safety features
are maintained.

vi
Dangerous Procedure Warnings , such as the example below, precede potentially dangerous
Warnings procedures throughout this manual. Instructions contained in the
warnings must be followed.
Warning Dangerous voltages, capable of causing death, are present in this
instrument. Use extreme caution when handling, testing, and adjusting
this instrument.

vii
Safety Symbols General de nitions of safety symbols used on equipment or in
manuals are listed below.
Instruction manual symbol: the product is marked
with this symbol when it is necessary for the user to
refer to the instruction manual.
Alternating current.
Direct current.
On (Supply).
O (Supply).
In position of push-button switch.
Out position of push-button switch.
Frame (or chassis) terminal. A connection to the
frame (chassis) of the equipment which normally
include all exposed metal structures.
This Warning sign denotes a hazard. It calls
attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the
like, which, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in injury or death to personnel.
This Caution sign denotes a hazard. It calls
attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the
like, which, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage to or destruction of part or all
of the product.
This Note sign denotes important information. It
calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or
the like, which is essential to highlight.
Axed to product containing static sensitive devices
use anti-static handling procedures to prevent
electrostatic discharge damage to component.

viii
How to Use This This is the Operation Manual for the 42841A Bias Current Source
Manual
including system operation combining with the 4284A, 42842A/B,
and 42843A. This manual contains installation, con guration,
operation, and performance test in the procedure following six
chapters. After you receive your 42841A, begin with chapter 1.
The 42841A is designed to compose a high DC current biased
impedance measurement system, combining with the 4284A. Refer to
the 4284A Operation Manual (Agilent Part Number 04284-90000) for
operation 4284A, before reading this Operation Manual.
For error messages of the 42841A, 42842A/B, and 42843A in use with
the 4284A, refer to the 4284A Operation Manual Appendix B Error
Message And System Message .

Chapter 1 This chapter provides unpacking, initial inspection, and preparation
Installation information necessary for you to know before applying AC power.

Chapter 2 This chapter provides information including a product overview.
Product Overview
Chapter 3 This chapter provides the basic operation procedures measurement
Operation Procedure techniques, practical measurement examples, and remote control
and Examples capability information.

Chapter 4 This chapter provides speci cations, supplemental performance
General Information characteristics, and other general information on the 42841A.

Chapter 5 This chapter provides the performance tests for the 42841A used
Performance Test for incoming inspection and veri cation that your instrument is
completely calibrated.

Appendix A Appendix A contains Manual Changes and provides information for
Manual Changes using this manual with an 42841As manufactured before the printing
date of the manual.

ix
Typeface Bold Boldface type is used when a term is de ned.
Conventions
For example: are symbols.
icons

Italics Italic type is used for emphasis and for titles
of manuals and other publications.
Italic type is also used for keyboard entries
when a name or a variable must be typed in
place of the words in italics. For example:
copy lename means to type the word copy,
to type a space, and then to type the name of
a le such as file1.
Computer Computer font is used for on-screen prompts
and messages.
4HARDKEYS5 Labeled keys on the instrument front panel
are enclosed in 4 5.
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

SOFTKEYS Softkeys located to the right of the LCD are
enclosed in .
NNNNN

x
Contents
1. Installation and Set Up Guide

Incoming Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Power Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Line Voltage and Fuse Selection . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Line Voltage Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Fuse Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Operation Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Electromagnetic Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Ventilation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Instruction for Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Rack/Handle Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Option 907 Handle Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Installing the Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Option 908 Rack Flange Kit . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Mounting the Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Option 909 Rack Flange & Handle Kit . . . . . 1-7
Mounting the Handle and Rack . . . . . . . 1-7
2. Product Overview

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Product Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
A Tour of the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
(1) LINE On/O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
(2) Operation Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
(3) DC Bias Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
(4) DC Bias Current Output . . . . . . . . . 2-3
(5) Fixture Connection Detector . . . . . . . 2-3
(6) Fixture Guide Holes and Threaded Studs . . 2-3
A Tour of Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
(1) Bias Current Interface Connectors . . . . . 2-4
(2) Line Voltage Selector . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
(3) Line Fuse Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
(4) Line Input Receptacle . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Contents-1
3. Operation Procedure and Examples

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Operation Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
4284A Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
20A System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
40A System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Operation Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
4285A System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Operation Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Instrument Connections . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
4284A(20A) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
4284A(40A) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
4285A System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Interconnecting Units . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Basic Measurement Procedure . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Measurement Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Con rm the System Condition . . . . . . . . 3-12
Set Up the Measurement Conditions . . . . . 3-12
Performing Error Correction . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Cable Length Correction . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Open Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Short Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Performing Short Correction . . . . . . . . 3-13
Load Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Connect DUT to the Test Fixture . . . . . . 3-13
Enable the DC Bias Output . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Performing the Measurement . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Disable the DC Bias Output. . . . . . . . . 3-16
Measurement Terminals Extension . . . . . . . . 3-17
Inductance Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
DC Bias Current List Sweep . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27
Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28
Remote Control Capability . . . . . . . . . . 3-28
Sample Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-29
4. General Information

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Speci cations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
DC Bias Current Output . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Output Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Applicable Test Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Other Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Furnished Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Test Fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Other Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Line Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Line Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Contents-2
Power Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Operating Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Operating Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Operating Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Supplemental Performance Characteristics . . . . . 4-4
42841A Measurement Accuracy (used for 4284A) . 4-4
L and jZj Accuracy : Ae (for L accuracy; Dx 0.1) 4-4
D Accuracy : De (Dx 0.1) . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Accuracy : e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Rs (Equivalent Series Resistance) Accuracy : Rse
(Dx 0.1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Additional Error Caused by 42842A/B . . . . . 4-7
L and jZj Additional Error (for L accuracy; Dx <
0.1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
D Additional Error : D1 ( Dx < 0.1 ) . . . . . 4-8
Additional Error : 1 . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Rs (Equivalent Series Resistance) Additional Error :
Rs1 (Dx < 0.1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Measurement Accuracy (used for 4285A) . . . . 4-13
L and jZj Accuracy : Ae (for L accuracy; Dx0.1
or Qx 10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
D Accuracy : De (Dx 0.1) . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Accuracy : . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Rs (Equivalent Series Resistance) Accuracy : Re 4-14
42842C Additional Error . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
L and jZj Additional Error: A1 . . . . . . . . 4-17
D Additional Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Additional Error : . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Rs (Equivalent Series Resistance) Additional Error
: R1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Bias Current Settling Time . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Signal Voltage ALC Operation Area . . . . . . 4-18
Measurement Error Calculation Example . . . . . 4-18
Storage and Repacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Original Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Other Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
5. Performance Test

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Performance Test Record . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Calculation Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Calibration Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
DC Bias Current Accuracy Test . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Resistor Box Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Contents-3
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Calicuation Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Performance Test Record . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
A. Manual Changes

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
Manual Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
Index

Contents-4
Figures
1-1. Power Cable Supplied . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2. Line Voltage Selector . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-3. Rack Mount Kits Installation . . . . . . . . . 1-6
2-1. Front Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2-2. Rear Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
3-1. Cable connection for the 4284A (20A) system . . 3-4
3-2. Cable connection for an 4284A(40A) system . . . 3-6
3-3. Cable connections for an 4285A system . . . . . 3-7
3-4. Cable connections for an 4285A system(adding the
42851A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3-5. 42842A/B/C Bias Current Test Fixture Connection 3-10
3-6. Shorting the Measurement Terminals . . . . . . 3-13
3-7. Moving Cursor to the FUNC Field . . . . . . . 3-18
3-8. Softkey Path To The Ls-Rs softkey . . . . . . 3-19
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

3-9. Moving Cursor to the FREQ Field . . . . . . . 3-19
3-10. Measurement Frequency Value Entry . . . . . . 3-20
3-11. Moving Cursor to the BIAS Field . . . . . . . 3-20
3-12. Bias Current Value Entry (before pressing the A
NNNNN

softkey) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
3-13. Moving Cursor to the INTEG Field . . . . . . . 3-21
3-14. Select Measurement Setup Page . . . . . . . . 3-22
3-15. Move Cursor to the ALC eld. . . . . . . . . . 3-22
3-16. To Enable the Automatic Level Control Function . 3-23
3-17. Set Cable Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
3-18. Connecting the Furnished Shorting Bar . . . . . 3-24
3-19. Move the Cursor to the SHORT Field . . . . . . 3-25
3-20. System Message When the Short Measurement is
Completed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
3-21. Ferrite-Cored Inductor Measurement Results . . . 3-26
3-22. DC Bias Current List Sweep Result . . . . . . . 3-27
4-1. Serial Number Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4-2. Temperature Induced Setting Error . . . . . . . 4-2
4-3. DC Bias Output Range . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4-4. 4284A Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4-5. 4284A Basic Accuracy Line Selection Chart . . . 4-5
4-6. Inductance measurement accuracy of 42841A ( 20A
Con guration ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4-7. Impedance measurement accuracy of 42841A ( 20A
Con guration ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4-8. Temperature additional error of 42841A ( 20A
Con guration) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Contents-5
4-9. Inductance measurement error of 42841A ( 40A
Con guration ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4-10. Impedance measurement accuracy of 42841A ( 40A
Con guration ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4-11. Temperature additional error of 42841A ( 40A
Con guration ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4-12. Additional Inductance Error of the 42842C . . . 4-15
4-13. Additional Impedance Error of the 42842C . . . 4-16
5-1. Bias Current Accuracy Test Setup . . . . . . . 5-4
5-2. Resistor Box Calibration Setup . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Contents-6
Tables
1-1. 42841A Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1-2. Line Voltage Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-3. Fuse Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-4. Rack Mount Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
3-1. Allowable Current Capacity Of The Wire . . . . 3-17
3-2. Current Capacity Reducing Rate . . . . . . . . 3-17
4-1. DC Bias Current Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4-2. Accuracy Chart Selection Table . . . . . . . . 4-7
5-1. Recommended Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5-2. Bias Current Accuracy Speci cation . . . . . . 5-3
5-3. Recommended Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5-4. 1A Range Bias Current Accuracy Test Limit . . . 5-5
5-5. 5A Range Bias Current Accuracy Test Limit . . . 5-6
5-6. 20A Range Bias Current Accuracy Test Limit . . 5-6
5-7. Recommended Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . 5-7
A-1. Manual Changes by Serial Number . . . . . . . A-1

Contents-7
1
Installation and Set Up Guide
This chapter provides the information necessary for performing an
incoming inspection and setting up the 42841A. The main topics in
this chapter are:
Incoming Inspection
Power requirements
Line Voltage and Fuse Selection
Operation Environment
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Ventilation Requirements
Instruction for Cleaning
Rack/Handle Installation

Incoming Inspection

Warning To avoid hazardous electrical shock, do not turn on the 42841A
when there are signs of shipping damage to any portion of the outer
enclosure (for example, covers, panel, or display)

Inspect the shipping container for damage. If the shipping container
or cushioning material is damaged, it should be kept until the
contents of the shipment have been checked for completeness and
the 42841A has been checked mechanically and electrically. The
contents of the shipment should be as listed in Table 1-1. If the
contents are incomplete, if there is mechanical damage or defect, or if
the analyzer does not pass the power-on selftests, notify the nearest
Agilent Technologies oce. If the shipping container is damaged,
or the cushioning material shows signs of unusual stress, notify the
carrier as well as the Agilent Technologies oce. Keep the shipping
materials for the carrier's inspection.

Manual Change 1-1
Table 1-1. 42841A Contents

Description Qty. Agilent Part Number
42841A
Bias Current Interface Cable 1 42841-61640

Power cable1 1 |

Operation Manual 1 42841-90010

Option 907 Handle Kit
Handle kit 1 5061-9690

Option 908 Rack Flange Kit
Rack Flange Kit 1 5061-9678

Option 909 Rack Flange & Handle Kit
Rack Flange & Handle Kit 1 5061-9684

1 Power Cable depends on where the instrument is used, see \Power Cable".

Power Requirements The 42841A requires the following power source:
Voltage : 90 to 132 Vac, 198 to 252 Vac
Frequency : 47 to 66 Hz
Power : 600 VA maximum
Power Cable In accordance with international safety standards, this instrument
is equipped with a three-wire power cable. When connected to an
appropriate ac power outlet, this cable grounds the instrument
frame.
The type of power cable shipped with each instrument depends on
the country of destination. Refer to Figure 1-1 for the part numbers
of the power cables available.
Warning For protection from electrical shock, the power cable ground must not
be defeated.

The power plug must be plugged into an outlet that provides a
protective earth ground connection.

1-2 Manual Change
Figure 1-1. Power Cable Supplied

Manual Change 1-3
Line Voltage and Figure 1-2 illustrates the line voltage selection switch and fuseholder
Fuse Selection
on the instrument's rear panel.

Figure 1-2. Line Voltage Selector

Caution Before connecting the instrument to the power source, make sure
that the correct fuse has been installed and the Line Voltage
Selection Switch is correctly set.

Line Voltage Selection Select the proper voltage selector according to the Table 1-2.
Table 1-2. Line Voltage Selection

Voltage Line
Selector Voltage
115 V 90{132 V, 47{66 Hz
230 V 198{252 V, 47{66 Hz

Fuse Selection Select proper fuse according to the Table 1-3. Current ratings for
the fuse are printed under the fuseholder on the rear panel, and are
listed, along with the fuse's Agilent Part number, in Table 1-3.
Table 1-3. Fuse Selection

Operating Fuse Fuse
Voltage Rating/Type Part Number
8A 250Vac
115 V UL/CSA type 2110-0383
Time Delay
5A 250Vac
230 V UL/CSA type 2110-0030
Time Delay

If you need this fuse,contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales
and Service Oce.

1-4 Manual Change
To remove the fuse, turn the fuse holder counterclockwise until the
fuse pops out.
Caution Use the proper fuse for the line voltage selected. Use only fuses with
the required current rating and of the speci ed type as replacements.
DO NOT use a mended fuse or short-circuit the fuse-holder in order
to by-pass a blown fuse. Find out what caused the fuse to blow!

Operation The 42841A must be operated under within the following
Environment
environment conditions, and sucient space must be kept behind the
42841A to avoid obstructing the air ow of the cooling fans.
Temperature: 0 C to 55 C
Humidity: less than 95% RH at 40C
Note The 42841A must be protected from temperature extremes which
could cause condensation within the instrument.

Electromagnetic This product has been designed and tested to the requirements of
Compatibility
the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 89/336/EEC.
To use a properly shielded cable or shielded coaxial cable (such as
those recommended in the General Information and the Performance
Test) to connect each of the ports to their respective controllers,
peripherals, equipments or devices may ensure to meet the
requirements.

Ventilation To ensure adequate ventilation, make sure that there is adequate
Requirements
clearance around the 42841A.

Manual Change 1-5
Instruction for To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the 42841A power cable from
Cleaning
the receptacle before cleaning. Use a dry cloth or a cloth slightly
dipped in water to clean the casing. Do not attempt to clean the
42841A internally.

Rack/Handle The analyzer can be rack mounted and used as a component in
Installation
a measurement system. Figure 1-3 shows how to rack mount the
42841A.
Table 1-4. Rack Mount Kits

Option Description Agilent Part
Number
907 Handle Kit 5061-9690

908 Rack Flange Kit 5061-9678

909 Rack Flange & Handle Kit 5061-9684

Figure 1-3. Rack Mount Kits Installation

1-6 Manual Change
Option 907 Handle Kit Option 907 is a handle kit containing a pair of handles and the
necessary hardware to attach them to the instrument.
Installing the Handle

1. Remove the adhesive-backed trim strips from the left and right
1
front sides of the 42841A. (Refer to Figure 1-3.)
2. Attach the front handles to the sides using the screws provided.
2

3. Attach the trim strips to the handles.
3

Option 908 Rack Flange Option 908 is a rack ange kit containing a pair of anges and
Kit the necessary hardware to mount them to the instrument in an
equipment rack with 482.6 mm (19 inches) horizontal spacing.
Mounting the Rack

1. Remove the adhesive-backed trim strips from the left and right
1
front sides of the 42841A. (Refer to Figure 1-3.)
2. Attach the rack mount ange to the left and right front sides of
4
the 42841A using the screws provided.
3. Remove all four feet (lift bar on the inner side of the foot, and
5
slide the foot toward the bar.)

Option 909 Rack Flange Option 909 is a rack mount kit containing a pair of anges and the
& Handle Kit necessary hardware to mount them to an instrument which has
handles attached, in an equipment rack with 482.6 mm (19 inches)
spacing.
Mounting the Handle and Rack

1. Remove the adhesive-backed trim strips 1 from the left and right
front sides of the 42841A.
2. Attach the front handle 3 and the rack mount ange 5 together
on the left and right front sides of the 42841A using the screws
provided.
3. Remove all four feet (lift bar on the inner side of the foot, and
slide the foot toward the bar).

Manual Change 1-7
2
Product Overview
Introduction This chapter contains the information you will need to know before
operating the Agilent Model 42841A Bias Current Source, such as the
relation between the 4284A/4285A Precision LCR meter and 42841A,
and each name of the 42841A's parts and their function.

Product The 42841A is a bias current source for use with the 4284A(with
Introduction
an Option 002 Bias Current Interface) or with the 4285A(with an
Option 002 Accessory Control Interface). So all measurement setups
including the DC current bias can be set using the 4284A/4285A
front panel keys.
The 42841A using with 4284A(20Hz - 1MHz) covers DC current
bias from 0.01A to 20A in three ranges. Two 42841As can be
paralleled to supply the maximum of 40A DC current bias combining
the 42842B Bias Current Test Fixture and by the 42843A Bias
Current Cable. For system con guration, refer to \ Instrument
Connections" in Chapter 3.
The 42841A can also be used with the 4285A(75kHz - 30MHz) and
the 42842C test xture for biased measurements. When the 42841A
is used with the 42841A, the DC current bias range of 0.01A to 10A
is covered.
The 4284A when used with the 42841A, 42842A/B, and 42843A
oers an additional error of 1% (supplemental performance
characteristics), over frequency range from 1kHz to 1MHz.
The 4284A's some measurement functions are limited such as
measurement range and Option 001 Power Ampli er/ DC Bias
option. For details, refer to \Operation Limitations" in Chapter 3.

Product Overview 2-1
A Tour of the Front Figure 2-1 shows the 42841A's components on the front panel. A
Panel description is given in the following paragraphs.

Figure 2-1. Front Panel Overview

(1) LINE On/Off

Power on/o switch. In the \ON" position all operating voltages
are applied to the instrument. In the \OFF" position NO operating
voltages are applied to the instrument.
(2) Operation Indicator

This Light Emitting Diode (LED) shows the 42841A's operation
status. This LED is ON while the 42841A is operated normally. If
the 42842A/B or 42843A are accidentally disconnected from the
42841A, the power will be automatically shut down and this LED
will go o. In this case, turn the line switch o, and wait for a few
seconds before turning it on again.

2-2 Product Overview
(3) DC Bias Indicator

This LED shows the 42841A's DC current bias status. When this
LED is lit, DC current bias is applied. When this LED is OFF, the
DC current bias is not applied.
(4) DC Bias Current Output

These connectors output the DC bias current, detects the xture
connection, detects over temperature of the xture, and checks status
of the xture cover.
(5) Fixture Connection Detector

This switch senses connection of 42842A/B or 42843A. If this switch
is asserted, the 42841A will shut down by itself for the operator's
safety.
(6) Fixture Guide Holes and Threaded Studs

These parts are used to mount the 42842A/B in front of the 42841A.

Product Overview 2-3
A Tour of Rear Panel Figure 2-2 shows the 42841A's components on the rear panel. A
description is given in the following paragraphs.

Figure 2-2. Rear Panel Overview

(1) Bias Current Interface Connectors

These are the Bias Current Interface connectors. Use either the
connector A or B to interconnect the 42841A with the 4284A Option
002 Bias Current Interface or with the 4285A Option 002 Accessory
Control Interface using the furnished bias current interface cable.
The other connector is used to connect one more 42841A unit when a
40A maximum bias current system is con gured.
(2) Line Voltage Selector

The switch used to match the 42841A to the AC operating voltage
being used. Refer to SECTION 1 to determine the correct operating
voltage.
(3) Line Fuse Holder

Fuse holder for the 42841A's line fuse. Refer to SECTION 1 to
determine the correct line fuse rating.
(4) Line Input Receptacle

AC power cord receptacle.

2-4 Product Overview
3
Operation Procedure and Examples
Introduction This chapter discusses the following topics:
Operation limitations
Basic measurement procedures
Measurement hints
Practical measurement examples
Remote control function

Operation When using the 42841A, the measurement con guration is selected
Limitations
based on use. Each con guration has the following limitations.

4284A Systems This system con guration uses the 4284A (measurement frequency:
20Hz - 1MHz) with the 42841A and the 42842A/B. There are two
con gurations for two bias current ranges. One is a 20A bias current
system and theother is a 40A bias current system.
20A System

The following equipment is necessary for the basic 20A system.
4284A Precision LCR Meter (with Option 002) :1
42841A Bias Current Source :1
42842A Bias Current Test Fixture :1
16048A Test Lead :1
Interface Cable(furnished with 42841A) :1
40A System

The following equipment is necessary for the basic 40A system.
4284A Precision LCR Meter (with Option 002) :1
42841A Bias Current Source :2
42842B Bias Current Test Fixture :1
42843A Bias Current Cable :1
16048A Test Lead :1
Interface Cable(furnished with 42841A) :2

Operation Procedure and Examples 3-1
Operation Limitations

Some 4284A functions have limitations when used with the 42841A
and the 42842A/B. These limitations are:
Standard spot bias (1.5V or 2V) is disabled.
Option 001, Power Ampli er/DC-bias, is disabled. So High Power
mode and DC current Isolation are turned OFF. The maximum
oscillator level is limited to 2Vrms, and the 640V DC-bias is
disabled.
Measurement range is limited to 10
and 100
ranges only.
Open compensation can not be used when the 42841A is used.
The cable length setting applies for the 1 m setting only.
For each of the above mentioned functions, refer to the 4284A
Operation Manual, Section 3, Display Format , and Section 4,
Measurement Setup .

4285A System This system uses the 4285A(measurement frequency: 75kHz -
30MHz) with the 42841A and 42842C. This is 10A bias current
system.
The following equipment is necessary for a basic 4285A bias current
system.
4285A Precision LCR Meter :1
42841A Bias Current Source :1
42842C Bias Current Test Fixture :1
(Order the Option 001, SMD Test Fixture.)
16048A Test Lead :1
Interface Cable (furnished with 42841A) :1
Operation Limitations

Some 4285A functions have limitations when used with 42841A and
42842C. These limitations are:
Option 001, Internal DC Bias is disabled.
Cable length setting applies for the 1 m setting only.
Refer to the 4285A Precision LCR Meter Operation Manual for
details.

3-2 Operation Procedure and Examples
Instrument Corresponding to each system con guration, use the following
procedures to connect the instruments.
Connections

Note DO NOT use these con gurations other than as described in this
section.
Caution Use the furnished 42841A Interface Cable when connecting to the
4284A/4285A. DO NOT extend the Interface Cable.

4284A(20A) System Connect the 4284A to the 42841A and the 42842A as shown in
Figure 3-1 using the following procedure.
1. Connect the Bias Current Interface connector of the 4284A to the
Bias Current Control Input A connector of the 42841A using the
furnished Bias Current Interface Cable.
2. Connect the 42842A directly to front panel of the 42841A as
shown in \ Interconnecting Units".
3. Connect the UNKNOWN connector of the 4284A to the TO
UNKNOWN Connector of the 42842A using the 16048A Test
Lead.

Operation Procedure and Examples 3-3
Figure 3-1. Cable connection for the 4284A (20A) system

3-4 Operation Procedure and Examples
4284A(40A) System Connect the 4284A to the 42841A and the 42842A as shown in
Figure 3-2 using the following procedure.
1. Connect the 4284A Bias Current Interface Connector to the Bias
Current Input A Connector of the 42841A using the furnished
Bias Current Interface Cable(1).
2. Connect the 42841A Bias Current Control Input B Connector
connected to the 4284A in step 1 to the Bias Current Control
Input A Connector of the other 42841A using the furnished Bias
Current Interface Cable(2).
3. Connect the 42842B directly to front panel of the 42841A as
shown in \ Interconnecting Units".
4. Connect the 4284A UNKNOWN Connector to the TO
UNKNOWN Connector of 42842B using the 16048A Test Leads.
5. Connect the DC Bias Current Output Connector of the 42841A
which is not connected with the 42842B and DC Bias Current
Input Connector of the 42842B side panel using an 42843A Bias
Current Cable.
Caution When in the 40A con guration shown in Figure 3-2 DO NOT
turn o a single 42841A or DO NOT disconnect the Bias Current
Interface Cable. When you change the con guration from 40A to
20A, you must completely disconnect one of the 42841As, its Bias
Current Interface Cable, and the 42843A Bias Current Cable.

Operation Procedure and Examples 3-5
Figure 3-2. Cable connection for an 4284A(40A) system

3-6 Operation Procedure and Examples
4285A System Connect the 4285A to the 42841A and the 42842C as shown in
Figure 3-3 using the following procedure.
1. Connect the 4285A Bias Current Interface connector to the
42841A Bias Current Control Input A connector using the
furnished Bias Current Interface Cable.
2. Connect the 42842C directly to the front panel of the 42841A as
shown in \ Interconnecting Units".
3. Connect 4285A UNKNOWN connector to the TO UNKNOWN
Connector of the 42842C using the 16048A Test Leads.

Figure 3-3. Cable connections for an 4285A system

Operation Procedure and Examples 3-7
When switching between DC current bias measurement and Q
measurement when using an 4285A system with an 42851A precision
Q adapter, setup as shown in Figure 3-4.
You can not simultaneously use an 42841A and an 42851A, but you
can use them alternately by using the following procedure when
connecting the rear panel control cable. For information on using the
42851A refer to the 4285A OPERATION MANUAL, Getting Started
Guide and the 42851A OPERAION MANUAL.
1. Reconnect the measurement connector of the 4285A to the 42851A
by BNC cables.
2. Change the status to 42851A mode using the Q ADAPTER
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

softkey in the Accessory I/F(#002) eld in the 4285A system
con guration page.
Note If serial number of the 42851A is lower than \2946J00187" in the
con guration shown in Figure 3-4, you must reconnect the 42851A's
accessory control interface cable directly to the 4285As interface
when changing to the Q measurement mode using the 42851A. If you
want to use the 42851A in the con guration shown in Figure 3-4,
contact your nearest Agilent Technologies oce.

Figure 3-4. Cable connections for an 4285A system(adding the 42851A)

3-8 Operation Procedure and Examples
Interconnecting When you use the 42841A with the 42842A/B/C Bias Current Test
Fixture, mount the 42842A/B/C directly to the 42841A Bias Current
Units Source. The connection procedure is listed below. Figure 3-5 shows
how to connect the 42842A/B/C to the 42841A.
1. Put the guide rods of the 42842A/B/C into the guide holes in the
front of the 42841A.
2. Connect the Bias Current output terminal of the 42841A to the
DC Bias input terminal of the 42842A/B/C.
3. Rotate the retaining screws in front of the 42842A/B/C clockwise
until they lock.
Warning The 42842A/B/C mounted on the 42841A must be placed so that it
can be supported by the workbench. DO NOT stack three boxes (two
42841As and a 4284A) on top of each other, DO NOT put anything
on the 42842A/B/C test fixture, and DO NOT lean on the test fixture.
Doing this may cause the instrument to tumble over.

Recommended Physical Setup

Operation Procedure and Examples 3-9
Figure 3-5. 42842A/B/C Bias Current Test Fixture Connection

Warning The 42842B can be used in a 20A current bias system. But in this
case, hazardous voltage will exist at the unused bias current input
connector of the 42842B. Put the red protective connector caps
on unused input connectors of the 42842B. DO NOT try to put a
conductive object into the unused 42842B input connector.

3-10 Operation Procedure and Examples
Basic Measurement The measurement procedure for applying a high current DC bias is
Procedure
the same as for standard 4284A/4285A operation. All measurement
conditions can be set using the front panel keys of the 4284A/4285A.
When the 4284A is combined with the (two) 42841A(s), a current
bias of 0.01A to 20A (40A) can be set on the BIAS eld on the
MEASUREMENT DISPLAY page or the MEASUREMENT SETUP
page. Option 002 installation can be monitored on the I BIAS I/F
(#002) eld on the CONFIGURATION page.
For details on the 4284A's operation, refer to the 4284A Operation
Manual, Section 6, Measurement Procedure And Examples . For the
42841A's error messages when combined with an 4284A, refer to
4284A Operation Manual, Appendix B, Error Message And System
Message .
For details on the 4285A's operation, refer to the 4285A Operation
Manual, Getting Started Guide .
Note The 42841A will automatically shut down the output when it detects
disconnection of the 42842A/B/C or the 42843A. Connect the
42842A/B/C or the 42843A to the 42841A before turning it on.

Measurement A typical high DC current biased measurement procedure is as
Procedure follows.
1. Make sure that Option 002 is installed at the system con g page.
When using the 4285A, set to the I BIAS con guration at this
step.
2. Set up the measurement conditions.
3. Perform error correction.
Note When using the 4285A, CABLE CORRECTION for a 1 m cable
must have already been accomplished.

4. Connect the device under test (DUT) to the measurement
terminals.
5. Press the 4DC BIAS5 key, to enable the DC bias output.
6. Perform the measurement.
7. Press the 4DC BIAS5 key, to disable the DC bias output.