Chapter 15: Difference between revisions

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= Device drivers =
= Device drivers =
==Introduction==
==Introduction==
Device drivers are the lowest layer in {{Radimation}}, they make it possible to communicate with thousands of different devices. They make the system flexible, while the {{RadiMation}} Core stays generic. The {{RadiMation}} Core does not even know which device it is controlling, only the type of device. So, if you have bought a new spectrum analyser or signal generator you only have to tell the software to use this new device and all the rest stays the same.
Device drivers are available in {{Radimation}} to make it possible to communicate with thousands of different test and measurement equipment devices. They make the system flexible to use different devices, while the {{RadiMation}} Core stays generic. The {{RadiMation}} Core does not even know how to control specific devices it is controlling, only the type of device, and which device driver to use. The device driver is responsible for the communication between the {{RadiMation}} core and the specific test and measurement equipment, by sending the correct commands to the devices. If for example a new spectrum analyser or signal generator has been acquired, it is only needed to configure the corresponding device driver in the {{RadiMation}} software, and it will be able to use the new device. All the configurations of all the tests will remain the same.


This chapter only describes the device driver specific configuration. All the configuration of the device drivers that are managed by the {{RadiMation}} Core, are described in {{ManualLink|14|Device driver configuration}}. Also the common device driver settings are described in {{ManualLink|14|Device Driver settings}}.
This chapter only describes the device driver specific configuration. All the configuration of the device drivers that are managed by the {{RadiMation}} Core, are described in {{ManualLink|14|3. Device Driver configuration}}. Also the common device driver settings are described in {{ManualLink|14|Device Driver Settings}}.


==Virtual device drivers==
== Virtual device drivers ==
For testing and demonstration purposes, virtual device drivers are added as well. These virtual device drivers act as a normal device but do not control real hardware.
For testing and demonstration purposes, virtual device drivers can be used and added as well.  
Virtual device drivers are devices that act like normal devices but are emulated by software. These virtual device do not physically exist, and thus do not control any real hardware. If a test site with only virtual devices is created, it can be used to perform completely virtual tests.  


Virtual device drivers do not have limitations like normal device drivers (like frequency band, maximum power, sweep times, etc.)
Virtual device drivers do not have limitations like normal device drivers (like frequency band, maximum power, sweep times, etc.)


==Configurable device drivers and non-configurable device drivers==
There are several advantages to include and use virtual device drivers. It is mainly used for debugging, investigating and solving software problems, but is has proven to be very useful when used as a temporarily workaround. For example a test site can have an amplifier which is IEEE controlled and one day somebody accidentally destroys the communication between computer and amplifier. To allow the test engineer to still perform some tests, he can select the virtual amplifier device driver as the amplifier to be used in the test site. The test engineer then only has to set the amplifier in operate manually and will be able to perform the tests that day. When the IEEE communication is repaired the original amplifier device driver can be selected in the testsite again.
{{RadiMation}} supports two types of device drivers, configurable and non-configurable device drivers. Configurable devices for instance are powermeter, signal generators and spectrum analysers. For these devices you can set the IEEE address or the serial port which {{RadiMation}} has to use to be able to communicate with these devices. Non-configurable devices are couplers and calibration jigs. You might think that it is useless to have non-configurable drivers, but the opposite has been proven many times. Non-configurable drivers still contain important information like the start and stop frequency of a device. With this information {{RadiMation}} can prevent the test engineer from making large mistakes, like using the wrong coupler in a certain frequency range.
 
==Active device drivers and passive device drivers==
{{RadiMation}} supports two types of device drivers: active and passive device drivers.  
 
Active devices are test and measurement equipment like [[powermeter]], [[signal generator]]s, [[spectrum analyser]]s, [[field sensor]]s, etc. For these devices the communication settings (like the IEEE address or the serial port) can be set which {{RadiMation}} has to use to be able to communicate with these devices.  
 
Passive devices are test and measurement equipment like [[coupler]]s, [[antenna]], [[cable]]s, [[calibration jig]]s, [[current sensor]]s, etc. Passive equipment do also need a device driver.
The reason for this is that {{RadiMation}} also has to know a number of details for these devices. Among others, the following information is relevant:
* Usable frequency range
* Maximum input power
* General information of the device, to include a list of used equipment during a test in the report
* Correction files that are relevant for the device
With this information {{RadiMation}} can prevent the test engineer from making large mistakes, like for example using a [[coupler]] in an unsupported frequency range.


==Device specific configuration==
==Device specific configuration==
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{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Wait Time|Wait time is the time that {{RadiMation}} may take for one measurement}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Pre Wait time|   The minimum time that should be waited before the measurements starts.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max Difference|The maximum allowed difference between the minimum and the maximum of measurements defined in the measurement window.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Measure|            The minimum amount of measurements that {{RadiMation}} has to perform to determine if the <Max. Difference> condition is met.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Measure|Measure is the minimum amount of measurements {{RadiMation}} has to make to determine the power.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Wait time|         The minimum time that {{RadiMation}} should be waiting between each measurement.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max Measure|Maximum measurement is the maximum amount of measurement {{RadiMation}} may take to determine the power.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max. Difference| The maximum difference that is allowed between the <Measure> measurement value(s); the highest and the lowest values are compared.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max. Measure|   The maximum amount of measurements that ''could'' be performed by {{RadiMation}}, before there is a final measurement value available (which could meet these conditions, or not).}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}
If Measure is set to a value of 1 the Wait time, Max. Difference and Max. Measure settings will be disabled, because only one measurement will be performed.


Now that all windows have been generally explained, the procedure {{RadiMation}} uses is the following. {{RadiMation}} takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that {{RadiMation}} determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference {{RadiMation}} determines the power. If the difference is greater then defined, {{RadiMation}} takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the  
Now that all windows have been generally explained, the procedure {{RadiMation}} uses is the following. {{RadiMation}} takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that {{RadiMation}} determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference {{RadiMation}} determines the power. If the difference is greater then defined, {{RadiMation}} takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the  
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===Field Sensor===
===Field Sensor===
==== Measurement setting panel ====
[[Image:Field Sensor Configuration Window.png]]
[[Image:Field Sensor Configuration Window.png]]


{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Wait Time|Wait time is the time that {{RadiMation}} may take for one measurement.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Pre Wait time|   The minimum time that should be waited before the measurements starts.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max Difference|The maximum allowed difference between the minimum and the maximum of measurements defined in the measurement window.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Measure|           The minimum amount of measurements that {{RadiMation}} has to perform to determine if the <Max. Difference> condition is met.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Measure|Measure is the minimum amount of measurements {{RadiMation}} has to make to determine the field.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Wait time|         The minimum time that {{RadiMation}} should be waiting between each measurement.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max Measure|Maximum measurement is the maximum amount of measurement {{RadiMation}} may take to determine the field.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max. Difference| The maximum difference that is allowed between the <Measure> measurement value(s); the highest and the lowest values are compared.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Advanced|Opens the advanced menu, this can be RS 232, IEEE or device specific settings like Range mode.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Max. Measure|   The maximum amount of measurements that ''could'' be performed by {{RadiMation}}, before there is a final measurement value available (which could meet these conditions, or not).}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}
If Measure is set to a value of 1 the Wait time, Max. Difference and Max. Measure settings will be disabled, because only one measurement will be performed.


Now that all windows and buttons have been generally explained, the procedure {{RadiMation}} uses is the following. {{RadiMation}} takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that {{RadiMation}} determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference {{RadiMation}} determines the field. If the difference is greater then defined, {{RadiMation}} takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the  
Now that all windows and buttons have been generally explained, the procedure {{RadiMation}} uses is the following. {{RadiMation}} takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that {{RadiMation}} determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference {{RadiMation}} determines the field. If the difference is greater then defined, {{RadiMation}} takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the  
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{{Note|'''Speed up:''' Sometimes slower means faster. For instance, if you have a slower field sensor it may be quicker to have a longer waiting time. Because the field sensor has more time to determine the right value, {{RadiMation}} needs less measurements to determine the value. It is up to the engineer to find the right accuracy vs. time setting.}}
{{Note|'''Speed up:''' Sometimes slower means faster. For instance, if you have a slower field sensor it may be quicker to have a longer waiting time. Because the field sensor has more time to determine the right value, {{RadiMation}} needs less measurements to determine the value. It is up to the engineer to find the right accuracy vs. time setting.}}
==== Axis setting panel ====
[[Image:Field sensor Advanced settings Axis Configuration.png‎]]
The Axis configuration is a generic driver setting panel.
There are several (old) field sensors which don’t support the read out of an isotropic value: instead they provide the measurements values of all three axes separately.
Using the ‘Software isotropic’ setting in the device driver can then activate that the measurement data of all three axes are being interpret and calculate to the isotropic value and have this isotropic value being return as the measured field strength.
When the field sensor already supports the retrieval of the isotropic measurement value, often this value is also returned when the software option is being selected in the device configuration: both isotropic as software isotropic will return the isotropic value of the field sensor. This is depending on the device driver and used equipment.
Normally, this setting is set to ‘Isotropic’ in case the isotropic value should be returned.


===AD converter===
===AD converter===
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== Communication settings ==
== Communication settings ==
Depending on the brand and model of the device, it may be necessary to specify the parameters for the communication with the device. The IEEE 488 and RS232 buses are most commonly used. This section describes the relevant communication parameters.
Depending on the brand and model of the device, it may be necessary to specify the parameters for the communication with the device. The GPIB/IEEE-488 and RS-232 buses are most commonly used. This section describes which communication buses are supported and which communication parameters can be configured. Not all devices support all the communication buses, so only the applicable communication buses can be selected in the device driver configuration.


===RS 232 Setting===
===RS-232 Setting===
[[Image:RS 232 Configuration Window.png]]
The RS-232 Communication settings are used to specify the RS-232 communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device over RS-232. A lot of modern measurement devices are connected by USB, however very often then a Virtual RS-232 COMPort (VCP) is generated over the USB connection. In that situation also the RS-232 communication settings should configured.


In the textbox you can type the COM port which {{RadiMation}} has to use to able to communicate with the device. Baudrate, 7 or 8 bits and parity do not need to set because this is device specific.
[[Image:RS-232 DeviceStream Configuration.png]]
 
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|COM Port|The COM port which {{RadiMation}} has to use to be communicate with the measurement device.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Baudrate|Allows to configure the baudrate that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Data bits|Allows to configure the number of data bits that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Parity|Allows to configure the parity bit that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Stop bits|Allows to configure the number of stop bits that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Send termination|Allows to configure if and which terminator should be used during data transmissions to the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Receive termination|Allows to configure if and which terminator should be used during the receiving of data from the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Receiving a NewLine ends read|Allows to configure if a read should be ended as soon as the receive terminator is received from the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}


===IEEE Setting Basic===
=== GPIB Setting ===
The GPIB Communication settings are used to specify the GPIB communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device over GPIB.


[[Image:GPIB Address Configuration Window.png]]
[[Image:GPIB DeviceStream Configuration.png]]
   
   
{{ScreenElementDescription|Primary Address|The primary address specifies the address of the device, so if the device you want to configure is on address is on 20 you enter 20. Please consult the manual of the device how to get the GPIB address of the device.}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Primary Address|The primary address specifies the address of the device, so if the device you want to configure is on address is on 20 you enter 20. Please consult the manual of the device how to determine the GPIB address of the device.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Use advanced configuration|Allows the end-user to enables the more advanced configuration parameters. Those advanced option should only be used if the default settings are not sufficient enough.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|GPIB Board|With GPIB Board you can specify the GPIB board that is used. The default value is 0 and can only be different when multiple GPIB boards are present.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Secondary Address|The second address is default 0, and should only be changed when needed. For further information please look in the help of National Instruments 488.2.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|GPIB Delay|GPIB delay is the delay between GPIB reading and writing actions. Some older IEEE 488.2 machines have difficulty communicating with fast PC's (> 2.5 GHz). This is most of the time noticeable when a driver is sometimes working and some times gives a GPIB (EABO or TIMO) error. These errors are most of the time, generated randomly. Specifying a GPIB delay time of 3000 uSeconds can fix these random errors. Run the test again and see of the problem as disappeared. Is the problem has disappear then your problem was timing, if not please contact your reseller and report the problems you are having.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Clear device during initialisation|When checked, a low level GPIB command to reset the device will be send to the device during initialisation.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Readdress device|When checked, a low level GPIB command to select the correct address will be transmitted every time a command is send to the device.}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}


{{ScreenElementDescription|Show advanced configuration|Advanced configuration enables the user to setup the GPIB board. The configuration is discussed in “IEEE settings advanced” This option should only be used if the default settings are not sufficient enough.}}
=== VISA Settings ===
The VISA Communication settings are used to specify the VISA communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device. The VISA library is a higher level communication library that supports different kind of communication methods. {{RadiMation}} doesn't provide a VISA library itself, and thus requires that a VISA library from another supplier like [[National Instruments]] or [[Keysight Technologies]] is installed. The VISA manager that is provided by that VISA library can be used to determine the correct VISA resource. The selected VISA configuration thus also has influence if a measurement device is controlled by GPIB, RS-232, LAN, USB-TMC, VXI11, network-socket or another communication method .


===IEEE Setting advanced===
[[Image:VISA DeviceStream Configuration.png]]
{{:GPIB Address Configuration}}
 
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Alias|Allows to specify a VISA Alias that should be used for the communication with the measurement device. Any Alias that is supported by VISA is accepted. The correct Alias can be determined by using the VISA manager (eg. [[National Instruments]] MAX) that is installed on the PC.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|GPIB|Allows to specify that GPIB should be used for the communication with the measurement device. The GPIB address of the measurement device should be specified.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|LAN|Allows to specify that a VXI11 or LXI connection should be used for the communication with the measurement device. It is possible to specify the IP-address or the (FQDN) hostname of the measurement device.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|RS-232|Allows to specify that a RS232 (ASRL in VISA terms) connection should be used for the communication with the measurement device. The COM port of the measurement device should be specified.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Visa-ID|Allows to specify a VISA Identifier that should be used for the communication with the measurement device. Any VISA Identifier that is supported by VISA is accepted. If one of the other communication methods is selected the corresponding VISA Identifier is also shown in this setting. Often used VISA identifiers are:
* <code>TCPIP[board]::<IP-address>::INSTR</code>: VXI11 or LXI ethernet communication with the device with '<IP-address>'.
* <code>TCPIP[board]::<IP-address>::<port-number>::SOCKET</code>: Raw socket based ethernet communication with on the port '<port-number>' with the the device '<IP-address>'
* <code>GPIB[board]::<primary address>::INSTR</code>: GPIB communication to the GPIB device with the address '<primary address>'
* <code>ASRL<port>::INSTR</code>: Serial communcation on COM-port '<port>'
}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}


==Virtual devices==
=== USB Settings ===
Virtual devices are devices that act like normal devices but do not really exist. If you create a test site with only virtual devices, you can perform complete virtual tests. You might wonder why {{RadiMation}} supports virtual device drivers. It is mainly used for debugging and solving software problems, but is has proven to be very useful when used as a temporarily workaround. For example a test site has an amplifier that is IEEE controlled and one day somebody accidentally destroys the communication between computer and amplifier. The test engineer has to perform some tests, he switches the driver for the amplifier for a virtual one. Sets the amplifier in operate by hand and was able to perform the tests that day. When the communication was repaired he changed the driver back again
The USB Communication settings are used to specify that an USB connection to a DARE!! Instruments measurement device is used. It is not possible to use this USB communication setting for devices that simulate a Virtual COMPort (VCP) over an USB connection. The RS232 Settings should be used for such a kind of measurement device.


==Configurable devices==
[[Image:USB DeviceStream Configuration.png]]
{{RadiMation}} allows the user to create its own device drivers for test equipment, which is (not yet) implemented in the standard device driver list.


User configurable device drivers are available for nearly all types of test equipment. However, device drivers for spectrum analysers and measurement receivers can not be made with user configurable device drivers because the complexity (and differences between suppliers) of these devices is too high.
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Device Identifier|The device identifier (which is an unique identifier of 8 groups of digits) that identifies the measurement device that is connected over USB.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Detect|Will automatically determine the correct {{ScreenElement|Device Identifier}} for the measurement device that is connected.}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}


To make your own device driver, use the “Device drivers” tab in the “Configuration” > “Configuration” menu and follow the steps below:
=== TCPIP Settings ===
The TCPIP Communication settings are used to specify that a socket based TCPIP connection to a measurement device should be used.
[[Image:TCPIP DeviceStream Configuration.png]]


# In the device driver’s menu, select the required device driver type.
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
# Press the “New” button.
{{ScreenElementDescription|Address|Allows to specify the IP-address or the (FQDN) hostname and the socket port number of the measurement device. This is normally done with a string like: "tcpip://<address-or-name>:<port-number>", where '<address-or-name>' is the IP address or hostname, and '<port-number>' is the socket port number on which the connection should be initiated. If the socket port number is a fixed port number, it is already shown as the default value, and it will be automatically added when no socket port number is specified.}}
# Select the driver called “Configurable xx” (i.e. if you want to make a signal generator device driver you would select the “Configurable signal generator” device driver).
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}
# Enter a description for the device driver (for example the type number of the generator) and press OK.
# The name of the device driver will be added in the available device driver’s list.
# Select the new device driver from the available device device’s list.
# Press the “Edit” button.
# A configuration screen for the device driver will appear. All required control commands for the device must be entered. Refer to the operating manual of the equipment for these codes.


After all codes are entered, the device driver is ready for use.
==Configurable device drivers==
{{RadiMation}} allows the user to create its own device drivers for test and measurement equipment, which is (not yet) implemented in the standard device driver list.


The custom-made device driver can be used as any other device driver by selecting the driver in the Equipment list.
User configurable device drivers are available for nearly all types of test and measurement equipment. However, device drivers for spectrum analysers and (scanning) receivers can not be made with user configurable device drivers because the complexity (and differences between suppliers) of these devices is too high.


{{Note|Passive equipment such as antenna’s, current probes, cables etc. do also need a device driver.}}
To make your own device driver, use the “Device drivers” tab in the “Configuration” > “Configuration” menu and follow the steps below:
The reason for this is that {{RadiMation}} has to know a number of parameters of these devices. Among others the following information is relevant:
# In the device driver’s menu, select the required device driver type.  
# Press the “New” button.
# Select the driver called “Configurable xx” (i.e. if you want to make a signal generator device driver you would select the “Configurable signal generator” device driver).
# Enter a description for the device driver (for example the type number of the generator) and press OK.
# The name of the device driver will be added in the available device driver’s list.
# Select the new device driver from the available device device’s list.
# Press the “Edit” button.
# A configuration screen for the device driver will appear. For active controlled equipment all required control commands for the device must be entered. Refer to the operating manual of the equipment for these codes.


* Frequency range
After all codes are entered, the device driver is ready for use. The custom-made device driver can then be used as any other device driver by selecting the driver in the Equipment list.
* Maximum input power
* The report generator needs to know which equipment is used during a test
* Correction files for these devices


===Generic settings===
===Generic settings===
{{ScreenElementDescriptionStart}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Start and stop frequency|The default value for the start frequency is 1 Hz and for the stop frequency is 120 GHz. The creator of the device is encouraged to set the correct start and stop frequency. If the start and stop frequency are set correctly, {{RadiMation}} can warn the test engineer when he/she want to use the device out of its valid frequency range.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Reset|In the reset window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to reset the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string. If you don’t know the string then leave this window blank, and make sure that the device in a neutral state.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Init|In the init window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to Init  the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Get ID|In the Get ID window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to get the ID string of the device. For example *IDN? is commonly used Get ID string.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Returned ID|In the Returned ID window you need to specify the string that the software will receive so that it know that it has the right device. For example "Hewlett_Packard,8643A," can be used for the Hewlett Packard 8643A. If you leave this window empty then all returned strings are accepted.}}
{{ScreenElementDescriptionEnd}}


Start and stop frequency
=== Configurable Signal generator ===
[[Image:Configurable Signal Generator Window.png]]


The most generic setting is the start and stop frequency. The default value for the start frequency is 1Hz and for the stop frequency is 40 GHz. The creator of the device is encouraged to set the right start and stop frequency. If the start and stop frequency are set correctly {{RadiMation}} can warn the test engineer when he/she want to use the device out of its valid frequency range.
{{ScreenElementDescription|Set Frequency|Set Frequency is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator frequency. The unit is in MHZ, so the string should be made for MHz. }}


Reset
'''Example:''' “FRQ__freq__MHZ”.


In the reset window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to reset the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string. If you don’t know the string then leave this window blank, and make sure that the device in a neutral state.
'''Example:''' “FRQ__freqHz__HZ”.


Init
'''Example:''' “FRQ__freqkHz__KHZ”.


In the init window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to Init  the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string.
'''Example:''' “FRQ__freqMHz__MHZ”.


Get ID
'''Example:''' “FRQ__freqGHz__GHZ”.


In the Get ID window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to get the ID string of the device. For example *IDN? is commonly used Get ID string.
__freq__ will be replaced by the value that {{RadiMation}} want to set the signal generator to. The “__” of  “__freq__” are two “_”.
Returned ID
 
In the Returned ID window you need to specify the string that the software will receive so that it know that it has the right device. For example "Hewlett_Packard,8643A," can be used for the Hewlett Packard 8643A. If you leave this window empty then all returned strings are accepted.
 
===Signal generator===
[[Image:Configurable Signal Generator Window.png]]
 
{{ScreenElementDescription|Set Frequency|Set Frequency is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator frequency. The unit is in MHZ, so the string should be made for MHz. }}


'''Example:''' “FRQ__freq__MHZ”.
All the __freq__ keywords below, can also use the unit specifier: Hz,kHz,MHz and GHz.   
 
__freq__ will be replaced by the value that {{RadiMation}} want to set the signal generator to.  The “__” of  “__freq__” are two “_”.


{{ScreenElementDescription|Set Carrier|Set Carrier is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator carrierlevel. The unit is in dBm, so the string should be made for dBM.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Set Carrier|Set Carrier is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator carrierlevel. The unit is in dBm, so the string should be made for dBM.}}
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'''Example:''' “SOURCE2:FUNC SQU”
'''Example:''' “SOURCE2:FUNC SQU”


===Amplifier===
=== Configurable Amplifier ===
{{:Configurable Amplifier}}


Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency.
=== Configurable Antenna ===
{{:Configurable Antenna}}


===Antenna===
=== Configurable Powermeter ===
 
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency.
 
===Powermeter===


[[Image:Configurable Power Meter Window.png]]
[[Image:Configurable Power Meter Window.png]]
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{{ScreenElementDescription|Duration|Duration is the time that {{RadiMation}} waits so that the powermeter can zero properly. Make sure that this time is big enough, an incorrect value may result in unpredictable result.}}
{{ScreenElementDescription|Duration|Duration is the time that {{RadiMation}} waits so that the powermeter can zero properly. Make sure that this time is big enough, an incorrect value may result in unpredictable result.}}


===Amplifier===
=== Configurable AD converter ===
{{:Configurable_Amplifier}}
===AD converter===
{{:Configurable_AD_Convertor}}
{{:Configurable_AD_Convertor}}


===Calibration Jigs===
=== Configurable Calibration Jig ===
 
{{:Configurable Calibration Jig}}
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
 
===Current Sensor===
 
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
 
===Pre Amplifiers===


=== Configurable Current Sensor ===
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency


===Receivers / Spectrum analyser===
=== Configurable Pre Amplifier ===
 
Currently unavailable.
 
===LISN===
 
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency


===Turn Table===
=== Configurable Receivers / Spectrum analyser ===
 
Due to the complexity of controlling analysers and (scanning) receivers, no configurable device driver is available for analyser and (scanning) receivers.
Currently unavailable.


===Antenna Tower===
=== Configurable LISN ===
{{:Configurable LISN}}


Currently unavailable.
=== Configurable Turn Table===
{{:Configurable TurnTable}}


===Absorbing Clamps===
=== Configurable Antenna Tower===
{{:Configurable Antenna Tower}}


=== Configurable Absorbing Clamps===
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency


===Clamp positioner===
=== Configurable Clamp positioner===
 
Currently unavailable.
Currently unavailable.


===Cables===
=== Configurable Cable===
 
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency
===Switch matrix===
=== Configurable Switch matrix===
 
{{:Configurable Switch Matrix}}
{{:Configurable_Switch_Matrix}}


===EUT Controller===
===EUT Controller===
 
{{:Configurable EUT Controller}}
Currently unavailable.


==Messages ==
==Messages ==
Line 335: Line 381:
[[Image:Amplifier Device Driver Can Not Be Configured Window.png]]
[[Image:Amplifier Device Driver Can Not Be Configured Window.png]]


This message box is displayed when you want to edit a device driver that cannot be configured, like a coupler or calibration jig. This does not mean that the device driver is useless. Please see chapter Configurable device drivers vs. none configurable device drivers for explanation.
This message box is displayed when you want to edit a device driver that cannot be configured, like a coupler or calibration jig. This does not mean that the device driver is useless. Please see chapter Configurable device drivers vs. none configurable device drivers for explanation. Nowadays also information about the used configuration is showed in this message to the end-user.


===Unknown Device Driver===
===Unknown Device Driver===
Line 354: Line 400:
This message box is displayed when {{RadiMation}} is unable to connect to the device. Please check cables and device driver settings.
This message box is displayed when {{RadiMation}} is unable to connect to the device. Please check cables and device driver settings.


==How to make a buscapture==
==How to Report an Error==
When encountering a problem with the software you might be asked to make a bus capture. This chapter describes how to make such a bus capture. To make it possible to capture bus activity National Instrument Spy needs to be installed. You can verify if the software is installed by going to Start ==> Program Files ==> National Instrument ==> NI Spy. Start the program, and go to Spy in the menu and then Options. The following window will appear.
When encountering a problem with the software you might would like to report it to the RadiMation support.
 
The RadiMation error popups, contains detailed section. This can be expanded with details button on the error popup.
[[Image:NI Spy Options.png]]
In the expanded detailed error popup, a Report Error button is present. This allows Error Reporting to the RadiMation support within RadiMation.
 
More information about Error Reporting can be found here:
Please verify your settings with the picture showed above and press OK.
https://wiki.radimation.com/wiki/index.php/Error_Report
Now start capturing by pressing the blue arrow pointing to the right. Start {{RadiMation}}, and perform the test you need to capture. After the test is done, press the button with the red circle. Then select File and then save as to save to hard disk.
 
==Ddlogger.dat==
Ddlogger.dat is an output file for a debugging tool used by the software engineers at D.A.R.E!!. The tool is extremely useful for remote problem solving. The general idea is quite simple yet really helpful. {{RadiMation}} inserts all the communication messages with devices in this file. So the software engineer can see what the software is sending and receiving when it communicates with the devices. With this information the engineer is more capable of reproducing/solving the problem, sometimes in combination with a buscapture. Do you need to install some additional software for this functionality? The answer is no, the tool is integrated in {{RadiMation}}. But how do I turn it on or off? At startup {{RadiMation}} looks for the ddlogger.dat file in the root of the drive. When it finds the file it will turn on the debugging tool, otherwise the debugging tool is turned off. What are the consequences for the performance? When the debugging tool is turned on, there is a small performance loss because there is additional writing to the harddisk. Therefore the default should be to run {{RadiMation}} with the debugging tool turned off.
 
Step by step procedure
# Make sure {{RadiMation}} is not running.
# Insert an empty text file in the root of the drive and rename it to “ddlogger.dat”. Make sure that the extension (“.txt”) is also changed.
# Start {{RadiMation}}, during the start the following screen will appear. [[Image:Report DDLogger During Start up.png]]
# Select no.
# Perform the measurement you have problems with.
# Close {{RadiMation}}.
# Send the ddlogger.dat file to D.A.R.E!!, preferably in a compressed file format (Zip)
# Remove the ddlogger.dat file from your harddrive.


If you have multiple test or testsetups concerning your problem please send multiple ddlogger.dat files instead of one big file.
[[File:ErrorPopupWindow.png]]


==AD convertors==
==AD convertors==
Line 921: Line 953:
Not used
Not used


===D.A.R.E!! Development Radimate 2 and 3===
===DARE!! Development Radimate 2 and 3===


Type of communication: RS 232
Type of communication: RS 232
Line 933: Line 965:
Maximum value: 16383
Maximum value: 16383


===EPI 575===
===EIP 575===


Type of communication: IEEE
Type of communication: IEEE

Latest revision as of 07:47, 8 May 2023

Device drivers[edit]

Introduction[edit]

Device drivers are available in RadiMation® to make it possible to communicate with thousands of different test and measurement equipment devices. They make the system flexible to use different devices, while the RadiMation® Core stays generic. The RadiMation® Core does not even know how to control specific devices it is controlling, only the type of device, and which device driver to use. The device driver is responsible for the communication between the RadiMation® core and the specific test and measurement equipment, by sending the correct commands to the devices. If for example a new spectrum analyser or signal generator has been acquired, it is only needed to configure the corresponding device driver in the RadiMation® software, and it will be able to use the new device. All the configurations of all the tests will remain the same.

This chapter only describes the device driver specific configuration. All the configuration of the device drivers that are managed by the RadiMation® Core, are described in Chapter 14: 3. Device Driver configuration. Also the common device driver settings are described in Chapter 14: Device Driver Settings.

Virtual device drivers[edit]

For testing and demonstration purposes, virtual device drivers can be used and added as well. Virtual device drivers are devices that act like normal devices but are emulated by software. These virtual device do not physically exist, and thus do not control any real hardware. If a test site with only virtual devices is created, it can be used to perform completely virtual tests.

Virtual device drivers do not have limitations like normal device drivers (like frequency band, maximum power, sweep times, etc.)

There are several advantages to include and use virtual device drivers. It is mainly used for debugging, investigating and solving software problems, but is has proven to be very useful when used as a temporarily workaround. For example a test site can have an amplifier which is IEEE controlled and one day somebody accidentally destroys the communication between computer and amplifier. To allow the test engineer to still perform some tests, he can select the virtual amplifier device driver as the amplifier to be used in the test site. The test engineer then only has to set the amplifier in operate manually and will be able to perform the tests that day. When the IEEE communication is repaired the original amplifier device driver can be selected in the testsite again.

Active device drivers and passive device drivers[edit]

RadiMation® supports two types of device drivers: active and passive device drivers.

Active devices are test and measurement equipment like powermeter, signal generators, spectrum analysers, field sensors, etc. For these devices the communication settings (like the IEEE address or the serial port) can be set which RadiMation® has to use to be able to communicate with these devices.

Passive devices are test and measurement equipment like couplers, antenna, cables, calibration jigs, current sensors, etc. Passive equipment do also need a device driver. The reason for this is that RadiMation® also has to know a number of details for these devices. Among others, the following information is relevant:

  • Usable frequency range
  • Maximum input power
  • General information of the device, to include a list of used equipment during a test in the report
  • Correction files that are relevant for the device

With this information RadiMation® can prevent the test engineer from making large mistakes, like for example using a coupler in an unsupported frequency range.

Device specific configuration[edit]

Signal generator[edit]

Pressing advanced will open an IEEE configuration screen. Please view chapter IEEE setting for a complete description. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Amplifier[edit]

When an amplifier can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the amplifier can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting and protecting this device.

Antenna[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Coupler[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Powermeter[edit]

Power Meter Configuration Window.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Pre Wait time The minimum time that should be waited before the measurements starts.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Measure The minimum amount of measurements that RadiMation® has to perform to determine if the <Max. Difference> condition is met.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait time The minimum time that RadiMation® should be waiting between each measurement.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Max. Difference The maximum difference that is allowed between the <Measure> measurement value(s); the highest and the lowest values are compared.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Max. Measure The maximum amount of measurements that could be performed by RadiMation®, before there is a final measurement value available (which could meet these conditions, or not).

If Measure is set to a value of 1 the Wait time, Max. Difference and Max. Measure settings will be disabled, because only one measurement will be performed.

Now that all windows have been generally explained, the procedure RadiMation® uses is the following. RadiMation® takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that RadiMation® determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference RadiMation® determines the power. If the difference is greater then defined, RadiMation® takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the new one. Determines the minimum, maximum and difference again. This continues as long as the difference is larger then defined and the maximum amount of measurement has not yet been reached. If the maximum amount of measurement has been reached the last measurement is taken as the measured value.

See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Information.png
 Note: Speed up(1): Sometimes slower means faster. For instance, if you have a slower powermeter (resistor head) it may be quicker to have a longer waiting time. Because the powermeter has more time to determine the right value, RadiMation® needs less measurements to determine the value. It is up to the engineer to find the right accuracy vs. time setting.

Speed up(2): When using a spectrum analyser a small amount of samples may be sufficient to determine the right amount of power. It is up to the engineer to find the right accuracy vs. time setting.

Measuring: Powermeter who doesn't have a RMS detector, should not be used in Fast constant mode.

Field Sensor[edit]

Measurement setting panel[edit]

Field Sensor Configuration Window.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Pre Wait time The minimum time that should be waited before the measurements starts.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Measure The minimum amount of measurements that RadiMation® has to perform to determine if the <Max. Difference> condition is met.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait time The minimum time that RadiMation® should be waiting between each measurement.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Max. Difference The maximum difference that is allowed between the <Measure> measurement value(s); the highest and the lowest values are compared.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Max. Measure The maximum amount of measurements that could be performed by RadiMation®, before there is a final measurement value available (which could meet these conditions, or not).

If Measure is set to a value of 1 the Wait time, Max. Difference and Max. Measure settings will be disabled, because only one measurement will be performed.

Now that all windows and buttons have been generally explained, the procedure RadiMation® uses is the following. RadiMation® takes the amount of measurements as defined in the Measure window. After that RadiMation® determines the minimum, maximum and difference. When the difference is equal or smaller then defined in Max difference RadiMation® determines the field. If the difference is greater then defined, RadiMation® takes one new measurement. Replaces the oldest value with the new one. Determines the minimum, maximum and difference again. This continues as long as the difference is larger then defined and the maximum amount of measurement has not yet been reached. If the maximum amount of measurement has been reached the last measurement is taken as the measured value.

Information.png
 Note: Speed up: Sometimes slower means faster. For instance, if you have a slower field sensor it may be quicker to have a longer waiting time. Because the field sensor has more time to determine the right value, RadiMation® needs less measurements to determine the value. It is up to the engineer to find the right accuracy vs. time setting.

Axis setting panel[edit]

Field sensor Advanced settings Axis Configuration.png

The Axis configuration is a generic driver setting panel. There are several (old) field sensors which don’t support the read out of an isotropic value: instead they provide the measurements values of all three axes separately. Using the ‘Software isotropic’ setting in the device driver can then activate that the measurement data of all three axes are being interpret and calculate to the isotropic value and have this isotropic value being return as the measured field strength. When the field sensor already supports the retrieval of the isotropic measurement value, often this value is also returned when the software option is being selected in the device configuration: both isotropic as software isotropic will return the isotropic value of the field sensor. This is depending on the device driver and used equipment.

Normally, this setting is set to ‘Isotropic’ in case the isotropic value should be returned.

AD converter[edit]

When an ad converter can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the ad converter can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear.

Injection device[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Calibration Jigs[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Current Sensor[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Pre Amplifiers[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Receivers / Spectrum analyser[edit]

Pressing advanced will open an IEEE configuration screen. Please view chapter IEEE setting for a complete description. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

LISN[edit]

When an LISN can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the LISN can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Turn Table[edit]

Pressing advanced will open an IEEE configuration screen. Please view chapter IEEE setting for a complete description.

Antenna Tower[edit]

Pressing advanced will open an IEEE configuration screen. Please view chapter IEEE setting for a complete description.

Absorbing Clamps[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Clamp positioner[edit]

When a clamp positioner can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the clamp positioner can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear.

Cables[edit]

When pressing advanced the message This Device cannot be configured will appear because this device can not be controlled remotely. See Chapter 14: Correction files and Chapter 14: Correction file uses for correcting this device.

Switch matrix[edit]

When a switch matrix can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the switch matrix can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear.

EUT Controller[edit]

When a EUT Controller can be remotely controlled the specific window will appear. Please view chapter IEEE or RS232 setting for a complete description. When the EUT Controller can not be remotely controlled the message This Device cannot be configured will appear.

Communication settings[edit]

Depending on the brand and model of the device, it may be necessary to specify the parameters for the communication with the device. The GPIB/IEEE-488 and RS-232 buses are most commonly used. This section describes which communication buses are supported and which communication parameters can be configured. Not all devices support all the communication buses, so only the applicable communication buses can be selected in the device driver configuration.

RS-232 Setting[edit]

The RS-232 Communication settings are used to specify the RS-232 communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device over RS-232. A lot of modern measurement devices are connected by USB, however very often then a Virtual RS-232 COMPort (VCP) is generated over the USB connection. In that situation also the RS-232 communication settings should configured.

RS-232 DeviceStream Configuration.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg COM Port The COM port which RadiMation® has to use to be communicate with the measurement device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Baudrate Allows to configure the baudrate that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Data bits Allows to configure the number of data bits that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Parity Allows to configure the parity bit that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Stop bits Allows to configure the number of stop bits that should be used to communicate with the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Send termination Allows to configure if and which terminator should be used during data transmissions to the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Receive termination Allows to configure if and which terminator should be used during the receiving of data from the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Receiving a NewLine ends read Allows to configure if a read should be ended as soon as the receive terminator is received from the measurement device. This setting can be a fixed device specific value, in which case it cannot be configured and then the setting will be disabled.


GPIB Setting[edit]

The GPIB Communication settings are used to specify the GPIB communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device over GPIB.

GPIB DeviceStream Configuration.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Primary Address The primary address specifies the address of the device, so if the device you want to configure is on address is on 20 you enter 20. Please consult the manual of the device how to determine the GPIB address of the device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use advanced configuration Allows the end-user to enables the more advanced configuration parameters. Those advanced option should only be used if the default settings are not sufficient enough.
ScreenElementDescription.svg GPIB Board With GPIB Board you can specify the GPIB board that is used. The default value is 0 and can only be different when multiple GPIB boards are present.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Secondary Address The second address is default 0, and should only be changed when needed. For further information please look in the help of National Instruments 488.2.
ScreenElementDescription.svg GPIB Delay GPIB delay is the delay between GPIB reading and writing actions. Some older IEEE 488.2 machines have difficulty communicating with fast PC's (> 2.5 GHz). This is most of the time noticeable when a driver is sometimes working and some times gives a GPIB (EABO or TIMO) error. These errors are most of the time, generated randomly. Specifying a GPIB delay time of 3000 uSeconds can fix these random errors. Run the test again and see of the problem as disappeared. Is the problem has disappear then your problem was timing, if not please contact your reseller and report the problems you are having.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Clear device during initialisation When checked, a low level GPIB command to reset the device will be send to the device during initialisation.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Readdress device When checked, a low level GPIB command to select the correct address will be transmitted every time a command is send to the device.


VISA Settings[edit]

The VISA Communication settings are used to specify the VISA communication parameters, for the communication with a measurement device. The VISA library is a higher level communication library that supports different kind of communication methods. RadiMation® doesn't provide a VISA library itself, and thus requires that a VISA library from another supplier like National Instruments or Keysight Technologies is installed. The VISA manager that is provided by that VISA library can be used to determine the correct VISA resource. The selected VISA configuration thus also has influence if a measurement device is controlled by GPIB, RS-232, LAN, USB-TMC, VXI11, network-socket or another communication method .

VISA DeviceStream Configuration.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Alias Allows to specify a VISA Alias that should be used for the communication with the measurement device. Any Alias that is supported by VISA is accepted. The correct Alias can be determined by using the VISA manager (eg. National Instruments MAX) that is installed on the PC.
ScreenElementDescription.svg GPIB Allows to specify that GPIB should be used for the communication with the measurement device. The GPIB address of the measurement device should be specified.
ScreenElementDescription.svg LAN Allows to specify that a VXI11 or LXI connection should be used for the communication with the measurement device. It is possible to specify the IP-address or the (FQDN) hostname of the measurement device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg RS-232 Allows to specify that a RS232 (ASRL in VISA terms) connection should be used for the communication with the measurement device. The COM port of the measurement device should be specified.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Visa-ID Allows to specify a VISA Identifier that should be used for the communication with the measurement device. Any VISA Identifier that is supported by VISA is accepted. If one of the other communication methods is selected the corresponding VISA Identifier is also shown in this setting. Often used VISA identifiers are:
  • TCPIP[board]::<IP-address>::INSTR: VXI11 or LXI ethernet communication with the device with '<IP-address>'.
  • TCPIP[board]::<IP-address>::<port-number>::SOCKET: Raw socket based ethernet communication with on the port '<port-number>' with the the device '<IP-address>'
  • GPIB[board]::<primary address>::INSTR: GPIB communication to the GPIB device with the address '<primary address>'
  • ASRL<port>::INSTR: Serial communcation on COM-port '<port>'


USB Settings[edit]

The USB Communication settings are used to specify that an USB connection to a DARE!! Instruments measurement device is used. It is not possible to use this USB communication setting for devices that simulate a Virtual COMPort (VCP) over an USB connection. The RS232 Settings should be used for such a kind of measurement device.

USB DeviceStream Configuration.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Device Identifier The device identifier (which is an unique identifier of 8 groups of digits) that identifies the measurement device that is connected over USB.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Detect Will automatically determine the correct Device Identifier for the measurement device that is connected.


TCPIP Settings[edit]

The TCPIP Communication settings are used to specify that a socket based TCPIP connection to a measurement device should be used.

TCPIP DeviceStream Configuration.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Address Allows to specify the IP-address or the (FQDN) hostname and the socket port number of the measurement device. This is normally done with a string like: "tcpip://<address-or-name>:<port-number>", where '<address-or-name>' is the IP address or hostname, and '<port-number>' is the socket port number on which the connection should be initiated. If the socket port number is a fixed port number, it is already shown as the default value, and it will be automatically added when no socket port number is specified.


Configurable device drivers[edit]

RadiMation® allows the user to create its own device drivers for test and measurement equipment, which is (not yet) implemented in the standard device driver list.

User configurable device drivers are available for nearly all types of test and measurement equipment. However, device drivers for spectrum analysers and (scanning) receivers can not be made with user configurable device drivers because the complexity (and differences between suppliers) of these devices is too high.

To make your own device driver, use the “Device drivers” tab in the “Configuration” > “Configuration” menu and follow the steps below:

  1. In the device driver’s menu, select the required device driver type.
  2. Press the “New” button.
  3. Select the driver called “Configurable xx” (i.e. if you want to make a signal generator device driver you would select the “Configurable signal generator” device driver).
  4. Enter a description for the device driver (for example the type number of the generator) and press OK.
  5. The name of the device driver will be added in the available device driver’s list.
  6. Select the new device driver from the available device device’s list.
  7. Press the “Edit” button.
  8. A configuration screen for the device driver will appear. For active controlled equipment all required control commands for the device must be entered. Refer to the operating manual of the equipment for these codes.

After all codes are entered, the device driver is ready for use. The custom-made device driver can then be used as any other device driver by selecting the driver in the Equipment list.

Generic settings[edit]

ScreenElementDescription.svg Start and stop frequency The default value for the start frequency is 1 Hz and for the stop frequency is 120 GHz. The creator of the device is encouraged to set the correct start and stop frequency. If the start and stop frequency are set correctly, RadiMation® can warn the test engineer when he/she want to use the device out of its valid frequency range.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset In the reset window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to reset the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string. If you don’t know the string then leave this window blank, and make sure that the device in a neutral state.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init In the init window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to Init the device. For example *RST is commonly used reset string.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID In the Get ID window you need to specify the string that the software needs to send when it want to get the ID string of the device. For example *IDN? is commonly used Get ID string.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID In the Returned ID window you need to specify the string that the software will receive so that it know that it has the right device. For example "Hewlett_Packard,8643A," can be used for the Hewlett Packard 8643A. If you leave this window empty then all returned strings are accepted.


Configurable Signal generator[edit]

Configurable Signal Generator Window.png

ScreenElementDescription.svg Set Frequency Set Frequency is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator frequency. The unit is in MHZ, so the string should be made for MHz.

Example: “FRQ__freq__MHZ”.

Example: “FRQ__freqHz__HZ”.

Example: “FRQ__freqkHz__KHZ”.

Example: “FRQ__freqMHz__MHZ”.

Example: “FRQ__freqGHz__GHZ”.

__freq__ will be replaced by the value that RadiMation® want to set the signal generator to. The “__” of “__freq__” are two “_”.

All the __freq__ keywords below, can also use the unit specifier: Hz,kHz,MHz and GHz.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Set Carrier Set Carrier is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator carrierlevel. The unit is in dBm, so the string should be made for dBM.

Example: “:SOURCE:POWER __carrier__ DBM”.

__carrier__ will be replaced by the value that RadiMation® want to set the signal generator to. The “__” of “__carrier__ ” are two “_”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Carrier on Carrier on is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator carrier on.

Example: “OUTPUT ON”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Carrier off Carrier off is the string that needs to send to set the signal generator carrier off.

Example: “OUTPUT OFF”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg AM on AM on is the string that needs to send to set the internal AM generator of the signal generator. The unit of frequency is KHz and the unit of Modulation Depth is %.

Example: “SOURCE2:FREQ __freq__ KHZ;SOURCE:AM:DEPTH __depth__ PCT;SOURCE:AM:STATE ON”.

__freq__ will be replaced by the frequency and __depth__ by the modulation depth “__freq__ ” are two “_”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg AM off AM off is the string that needs to send to set the internal am modulation of the signal generator off.

Example: “SOURCE:AM:STATE OFF”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg External on External on is the string that needs to send to set the modulator to the external input.

Example: “SOURCE:AM:SOURCE EXT”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg External off External off is the string that needs to send to set the modulator to the internal input.

Example: “SOURCE:AM:SOURCE INT”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg PM on PM on is the string that needs to send to set the internal PM generator of the signal generator. The unit of frequency is KHz and the unit of duty cycle is %.

Example: “SOURCE2:FREQ __freq__ KHZ;SOURCE:PM:DUTY __duty__ PCT;SOURCE:PM:STATE ON”.

__freq__ will be replaced by the frequency and __duty__ by the duty cycle. “__freq__ ” are two “_”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg PM off PM off is the string that needs to send to set the internal PM modulation of the signal generator off.

Example: “SOURCE:PM:STATE OFF”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Sine Wave Sine wave is the string that needs to be send when RadiMation® wants to set the wave form of the internal source to sine.

Example: “SOURCE2:FUNC SIN”

ScreenElementDescription.svg Square Wave Square wave is the string that needs to be send when RadiMation® wants to set the wave form of the internal source to square.

Example: “SOURCE2:FUNC SQU”

Configurable Amplifier[edit]

The Configurable Amplifier device driver is a Amplifier which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Configuration[edit]

The following tabs are available in the advanced configuration of the Chapter 15:

ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.

The configurable amplifier device driver can be used to control amplifiers for which no RadiMation® device driver is present yet. By specifying the correct commands, it is possible to send the desired commands to an amplifier. However be aware that this device driver is simple and is not able to perform more complicated tasks. Including delays and sending multiple commands at once is not possible in this device driver, a programmed device driver is needed to achieve that. Also the retrieval of the actual status of the amplifier is not supported by this configurable device driver, as the interpretation of the correct response should be very versatile.

Main[edit]

ConfigAmpDefault.PNG


ScreenElementDescription.svg Use Remote Control and send specified commands If the checkbox is ticked, the remote control of the amplifier will be used by using the specified commands. If the checkbox is not ticked, no commands will be transmitted to the amplifier at all
ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset The code that needs to be send to the device to initialize it in a defined state. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init The Init code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID The code that needs to be send to device to get the identification back. A common used SCPI command is *IDN?. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID The code that is send back as a return on the Get ID code. When left blank, no check will be performed.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit The Deinit code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Operation Completion after sending command(s) If the checkbox is checked, every transmitted command will include a check to determine if the execution of the command is finished.


Operation[edit]

ConfigAmpDefaultOperation.PNG


ScreenElementDescription.svg Power On The power on code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Band Selection The band select code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Operate The operate code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Standby The standby code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Power Off The power off code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Delay after power on The time that must be waited after sending the power on command.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Delay after power off The time that must be waited after sending the power off command.


Example[edit]

For this example the driver will be used to control the Milmega Controller AC-001.

Summary of control commands of Milmega Controller AC-001

Description Command Parameters
Standby / Operate OUT1 0 = RF STANDBY
1 = RF ON
Band Selection OUT3 0 = BAND 1
1 = BAND 2
Power off / on OUT4 0 = LINE STANDBY
1 = LINE ON

These commands for the Milmega AC-001 controller can be implemented in the Configurable Amplifier device driver by specifying the codes, as in the following screenshots:

ConfigAmpMain.PNG

ConfigAmpOperation.PNG

Configurable Antenna[edit]

The Configurable Antenna device driver is a Antenna which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Configuration[edit]

The following tabs are available in the advanced configuration of the Chapter 15:

ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.


AntennaSettings.png

Information.png
 Note: The antenna efficiency factor is only applicable to reverberation chamber testing.


ScreenElementDescription.svg Efficiency The antenna efficiency factor of the antenna.

The antenna efficiency factor is assumed (if not known) to be 0.75 for a log periodic antenna and 0.9 for a horn antenna. It is a unitless factor with values between 1.00 and 0.00. The antenna efficiency factor is a single fixed value which is used for all the frequencies of the antenna. Values smaller than 0.00 or larger than 1.00 are not allowed and the configuration dialog of the antenna cannot be closed if an invalid value is specified.

An antenna efficiency correction factor can also be selected in the device driver settings dialog in RadiMation®. That correction file contains a value that is a correction that is added on top of the value from the device driver. Negative values down to -1.0 are also allowed as it is a correction on the single fixed value from the antenna driver, and it allows to correct that single fixed value to a lower value. The combination of the single fixed antenna efficiency value from the antenna driver, and the added correction value from the selected correction file, should be between 1.0 and 0.0. If this combined value is invalid for one or more frequencies a specific error is shown during the initialisation of the test.

The Configurable Antenna device driver can be used to create a device driver for an antenna, even if no device driver is available for that antenna in RadiMation®.

ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.

Configurable Powermeter[edit]

Configurable Power Meter Window.png

ScreenElementDescription.svg Set frequency Set Frequency is the string that needs to send to set the powermeter frequency. The unit is in MHz, so the string should be made for MHz.

Example: “FRQ__freq__MHZ”.

__freq__ will be replaced by the value that RadiMation® want to set the powermeter too. The “__” of “__freq__” are two “_”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Select Channel Set Select Channel is the string that RadiMation® needs to send to set the powermeter channel. This is only necessary when the powermeter has more the one channel.

Example: “P1,U1”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Trigger Trigger is the string that RadiMation® needs to send to trigger the powermeter.

Example: “X1”

ScreenElementDescription.svg Result Format Result Format is the string that RadiMation® needs to use to decode the value from the string send by the powermeter. The return value is interpreted in dBm.

Example: “__result__”

__result__ will be replaced by the value that RadiMation® get from the powermeter. The “__” of “__result__” are two “_”.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Start Zero Start Zero is the string that RadiMation® needs to send to start zeroing the powermeter.

Example: “O1”

ScreenElementDescription.svg Duration Duration is the time that RadiMation® waits so that the powermeter can zero properly. Make sure that this time is big enough, an incorrect value may result in unpredictable result.

Configurable AD converter[edit]

The Configurable AD Convertor device driver is a AD Converter which is supported by RadiMation®.   It can be used to control other measurement equipment, for which no RadiMation device driver is available yet. The Configurable AD Convertor allows to retrieve a measurement value from the measurement equipment, where the measured value can then be used in RadiMation as an EUT Monitoring input. These values can thus be measured and shown in graphs during immunity tests.

Configurable AD Converter Configuration Window.png

Initialisation and Check[edit]

The Configurable AD Convertor device driver has several boxes, in which the remote programming commands can be specified, which should be transmitted to the measurement device on defined moments.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset The reset code that needs to be transmitted to device. When left blank, no command will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init The command that is transmitted to initialise the configured device. When left blank, no command will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID The query-command that is transmitted to retrieve the ID of the device. This is used to check if the device is connected. A commonly used SCPI command is: '*IDN?'. When left blank, no command will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID The expected response of the device on the Get ID query. The text that is specified will be searched in the real response on Get ID query. If the specified text can be found in the response, the check for the connection is successful, otherwise it is reported that the measurement device is not connected. Leaving this blank, will skip the check if the measurement device is connected, and it is always assumed that the device is connected.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Specifies the command that is transmitted when the device will not be controlled anymore.This can for example be used to put the measurement device in an intrinsic safe state. When left blank, no command will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Completion after sending command If the checkbox is ticked, RadiMation® will wait for all the commands to complete, before it continues. This is achieved by also transmitting the SCPI query-command '*OPC?' to the device, and waiting for the response.


Channels[edit]

AD convertors can have multiple channels from which values can be read. The Configurable AD Convertor device driver is able to retrieve the values from up to 50 different channels from the measurement device. For each AD channel, an individual query-command can be specified, specific for the measurement value that should be retrieved.

The configuration of a single channel can be configured on one of the specific Channel <nr> tabs.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Trigger The trigger query-command can be specified to trigger and request a new measurement value from the device. A commonly used SCPI query-command is: 'READ?'.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Timeout ms The timeout (specified in milliseconds) that should be used to read the response from the device. If no valid response is received within the timeout it is assumed that no value is read.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Read Back Different measurement devices will return the measured value in different formatting. The configurable AD convertor is able to determine the numeric value of the measurement device response by using regular expressions. The text in the Read Back box, is used as the regular expressions to determine the numeric value in the response of the measurement device.

The regular expression for finding the first numeric value (including fractional and scientific notation) in a text is: 

([+-]?[0-9]*\.?[0-9]+([eE][+-]?[0-9]+)?)

The part of the regular expression that is contained in the round brackets, is retrieved as the measurement value and converted to a numeric value. For more possibilities see the Read Back examples section.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Validate Expression Shows a small window where the expected response of the measurement device and a regular expression can be typed. The specified regular expression will be used to interpret the specified result, and the result will be shown. This window can be used to test the regular expression, to determine if the expected response results in the desired value.


The minimum and maximum measurable value of the measurement device can be specified to correctly scale the measured value. This will also be used to re-calculate the retrieved measurement value to another value with another unit.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Minimum value The lowest value of the channel that can be measured with the controlled measurement device. The value must be the same as filled in the EUT window. It normally is the best to configure this value to be 0.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Maximum value The highest value of the channel that can be measured with the controlled measurement device. The value must be the same as filled in the EUT window. It normally is the best to configure this value to be 1.


Read Back examples[edit]

Some examples for interpreting a response are:

Received information Regular expression Determined measurement value Note
U_L_N 325 (-?[0-9.,Ee+-]+) 325 Takes the first number.
I_L1;12.34 ;(-?[0-9.,Ee+-]+) 12.34 Takes the first number after ";".
THD_U_L1;;14,5 ;;(-?[0-9.,Ee+-]+) 14.5 Takes the first number after ";;".
AC_FREQ;Channel1;1.23E3 ;.*;(-?[0-9.,Ee+-]+) 1230 Takes the first number after the appearance of a second ";".

The correctness of the regular expression can be tested, verified and improved by using the Validate Expression tool within the configurable device driver.

ValidateExpressionTool.png

In the Regular Expression Tester, the following fields are available to verify the regular expression:

ScreenElementDescription.svg Input Any text that is expected to be returned by the device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Regular Expression The Regular expression that is being tested. This regular expression will be used to use the text from Input and convert it into a numerical value.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Result The numerical value that is determined by the device driver using the Regular Expression on the Input.


Communication[edit]

The Configurable AD Convertor supports several communication types, which can be used to communicate with the measurement device. The Communication button can be used to open the configuration dialog to specify the actual details of the medium to use for the communication. Depending on the connection that is used, select the correct Communication Stream, and configure the parameters correspondingly to communication settings that are used by device. Different Communication Streams are available, which are described in more detail in the Communication settings section of Chapter 15.

ConfigureCommunication.png

Configurable Calibration Jig[edit]

The Configurable Calibration Jig device driver is a Calibration Jig which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Configuration[edit]

The following tabs are available in the advanced configuration of the Chapter 15:

ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.

It can be used to control other measurement equipment, for which no RadiMation® device driver is available yet. The Configurable Calibration Jig allows to create a device driver to specify the details of a calibration jig that is used to calibrate a CDN or Injection Device. The configured device driver can then be used in RadiMation®, and the calibration jig can thus be used during a conducted immunity calibration.

ConfigurableCalibrationJig.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Start Frequency The lowest usable frequency of the device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Stop Frequency The highest usable frequency of the device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Resistance The impedance of the injection system itself, for which the calibration jig is used to calibrate it.
  • In a 150 Ω injection system, thus 150 Ω should be specified, even though the Calibration Jig itself only contain 100 Ω resistors. In a 150 Ω injection system, this is the combination of the 100 Ω resistors in the calibration jig, and the 50 Ω typical impedance of the powermeter or analyser that is connected to the calibration jig.
  • In a 50 Ω injection system, thus 50 Ω should be specified, even though the Calibration Jig itself does not contain any impedance adaption resistors. The impedance of the system itself is then only defined by the 50 Ω typical impedance of the powermeter or analyser that is connected to the calibration jig.


Configurable Current Sensor[edit]

Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency

Configurable Pre Amplifier[edit]

Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency

Configurable Receivers / Spectrum analyser[edit]

Due to the complexity of controlling analysers and (scanning) receivers, no configurable device driver is available for analyser and (scanning) receivers.

Configurable LISN[edit]

The Configurable LISN device driver is a LISN which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Configuration[edit]

The following tabs are available in the advanced configuration of the Chapter 15:

ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.

The Configurable LISN device driver can be used to remote control a LISN, even if no device driver is available for that LISN in RadiMation®. This device driver contains several fields where the correct commands can be specified that should be transmitted to the LISN. These remote control commands are specific for that brand and model of the LISN, and are often available in the (remote programming) manual of the LISN.

ConfigurableLISNMainTab.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset The reset command that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init The command that is send to initialize the configured device. When left blank no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID The command that is send to retrieve the identity of the device. This is used to check if the device is connected. A commonly used SCPI command is: *IDN?. When left blank, no command will be send, and the device check is skipped.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID A string that is used to check if the correct device driver is selected and the device is connected. The device check consists of a few steps. First the Get ID command is transmitted to the device, and the response from the device is then received. The received response is then searched for the string specified at Returned ID, and if the string is found it is confirmed that the correct device is connected. The string specified can also be a Regular expression, which is then used to find a match in the response from the device. Leaving this blank, will skip the device check, and it is silently assumed (but not checked) that the correct device is connected.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Specifies the command that is send when the device is no longer controlled. This can for example be used to put the measurement device is an intrinsic safe state. Leaving this blank, will keep the device in its last state after controlling it.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Completion after sending command The checkmark can be enabled so RadiMation® will wait for all the commands to complete, before it continues. This is done by sending SCPI command *OPC? to the device.


ConfigurableFrequencyRangeTab.png

The frequency range of the Chapter 15 as provided by the manufacturer is shown and selected as default. It is possible to overrule these frequencies and to manual adjust the allowed frequency range of the Chapter 15.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default start frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default start frequency will be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom start frequency If the Use default start frequency checkbox is unchecked, another start frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized start frequency will then be used as the lowest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default start frequency.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Use default stop frequency If the checkbox is checked, the default stop frequency will be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Custom stop frequency If the Use default stop frequency checkbox is unchecked, another stop frequency (expressed in MHz) can be specified. The customized stop frequency will then be used as the highest usable frequency in a test for this device. The customized frequency can be a limitation or an extension of the default stop frequency.


Specifying a different frequency range can be useful if for example:

  • A device (like a coupler, antenna, injection device, cable, etc...) is still useable (but out of specification) outside the standard suggested frequency range.
  • An external mixer is used to measure an extended frequency range.
  • An up- or down-convertor is used to shift the frequency range.
  • A newer model of a device is present that has an extended frequency range, and still uses the same remote control commands.

Be careful changing these setting as RadiMation® is no longer able to verify if the Chapter 15 is used outside frequency range that is specified by the manufacturer. This may result to serious damage of your measurement device.

ConfigurableLISNLineCommandsTab.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Neutral The command that should be transmitted when the 'Neutral' line of the LISN should be selected. If no command is specified, nothing will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Line 1 The command that should be transmitted when the 'Line 1' line of the LISN should be selected. If no command is specified, nothing will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Line 2 The command that should be transmitted when the 'Line 2' line of the LISN should be selected. If no command is specified, nothing will be transmitted.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Line 3 The command that should be transmitted when the 'Line 3' line of the LISN should be selected. If no command is specified, nothing will be transmitted.


Also the following additional buttons are available in this device driver:

ScreenElementDescription.svg Ok Closes the dialog, where all the changed settings are stored.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Cancel Closes the dialog, where all the changed settings are discarded.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Communication Opens an additional dialog which allows to set the correct communication medium to communicate with the device, including any relevant settings.


Configurable Turn Table[edit]

The Configurable TurnTable device driver is a Turn Table which is supported by RadiMation®.  

It can be used to control other measurement equipment, for which no RadiMation device driver is available yet. The Configurable Turn Table allows to manual create a device driver to control a Turn Table. The configured device driver can then be used in RadiMation, and the Turn Table can thus be used in immunity and emission tests.

Configurable commands[edit]

Configurable Turn Table Configuration Window.png


ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset The reset code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init The command that is send to initialize the configured device. When left blank no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get Id The command that is send to retrieve the ID of the device. This is used to check if the device is connected. A commonly used SCPI command is: *IDN?. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID The identifier is used to check if the correct device driver is selected and the device is connected. Leaving this blank, will skip the device check.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Specifies the command that is send when the device is no longer controlled. This can for example be used to put the measurement device is an intrinsic safe state. Leaving this blank, will keep the device in its last state after controlling it.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Completion after sending command The checkmark can be enabled so RadiMation® will wait for all the commands to complete, before it continues. This is done by sending SCPI command *OPC? to the device.


ScreenElementDescription.svg Goto angle The command that should be send to turn the turn table. The command must include the keyword __angle__, __degree__ or __radian__, which will be replaced by the desired destination angle for the turntable.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Current Angle This is the command to request the current angle of the device.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Current angle format This is a regular expression to obtain the current angle from the response of the Current angle command. See regular expression examples below.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Movement ready This is the command to request the current status of the turn table. This command is used to determine if the turntable is ready with the movement to the destination angle.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Movement ready response This should be the response from the device when the turntable is not moving/rotating anymore.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Stop This is the command to abort/stop any rotation.


Order of executed commands[edit]

This section describes which commands from the Configurable TurnTable are transmitted to the actual device, when a specific operation in RadiMation® is performed.

Check device[edit]

When a check for the connection to the device is performed, the following actions are performed:

  1. A connection to the device is opened.
  2. If no Returned ID is specified, no actual check is performed, and it is assumed that the device is connected. Otherwise:
    1. The command specified at Get ID is transmitted (if specified), and the response is read.
    2. The response is compared to the value specified in Returned ID, if the response (partially or as a regular expression) matches, the device is assumed to be connected.
  3. The connection to the device is closed.

Device is initialised[edit]

When a device is initialised to be controlled from RadiMation®, the following actions are performed:

  1. A connection to the device is opened.
  2. The command specified at Reset is transmitted (if specified).
  3. The command specified at Init is transmitted (if specified).

Device is deinitialised[edit]

When a device is deinitialised, the following actions are performed:

  1. The command specified at Deinit is transmitted (if specified).
  2. The connection to the device is closed.

Retrieve the current angle from the turntable[edit]

When RadiMation® wants to determine the actual angle from the turntable, the following actions are performed:

  1. The command specified at Current Angle is transmitted (if specified), and the response is read.
  2. The response is interpreted using the regular expression specified at Current angle format. The result of the regular expression lookup is converted to a number, and reported back as the actual angle (in degrees) of the turntable to RadiMation®.

Turn the turntable to an angle[edit]

When a turntable in RadiMation is being turned to another angle, the following actions are performed:

  1. The command specified at Goto angle is parsed, and a temporary string replacement is done on the command:
    • Every occurrence of __angle__ is replaced by the numeric value of the destination angle in degrees.
    • Every occurrence of __degree__ is replaced by the numeric value of the destination angle in degrees.
    • Every occurrence of __radian__ is replaced by the numeric value of the destination angle in radians.
  2. The temporarily modified command specified at Goto angle is transmitted.
  3. To determine if the turntable has reached the destination angle or has stopped turning, the following actions are repeated multiple times:
    1. The current angle is retrieved as described at 'Retrieve the current angle from the turntable'
    2. The command specified at Movement ready is transmitted (if specified), and the response is read.
    3. The response is compared to the value specified in Movement ready response, if the response (partially or as a regular expression) matches, the device is assumed to be ready with the movement.
  4. The command specified at Stop is transmitted (if specified).

Regular expression examples[edit]

The Configurable TurnTable uses regular expression on some commands to interpret and parse the response of the actual device.

Some examples are:

Received information Regular expression RadiMation® Readout Note
U_L_N 325 (-?[0-9.,Ee-]+) 325 Takes the first number.
I_L1;12.34 ;(-?[0-9.,Ee-]+) 12.34 Takes the first number after ";".
THD_U_L1;;14,5 ;;(-?[0-9.,Ee-]+) 14.5 Takes the first number after ";;".
AC_FREQ;Channel1;1.23E3 ;.*;(-?[0-9.,Ee-]+) 1230 Takes the first number after the appearance of a second ";".

Configurable Antenna Tower[edit]

The Configurable Antenna Tower device driver is a Antenna Tower which is supported by RadiMation®.  

It can be used to control other equipment for which no RadiMation device driver is available yet. The Configurable Antenna Tower allows to manual create a device driver to control a Antenna Tower. The configured device driver can then be used in RadiMation, and the Antenna Tower can thus be used in immunity and emission tests.


The following tabs are available in the advanced configuration of the Configurable Antenna Tower Driver:

Communication[edit]

GPIB DeviceStream Configuration.png

On the Communication tab, the desired communication method can be selected and configured. Depending on the selected method, additional relevant settings are shown and can be configured.


ScreenElementDescription.svg Communication Streams Selects the medium or method that should be used to communicate with the device. Depending on the capabilities of the device this can be one or more of:

See the Communication Settings in Chapter 15, on how to configure each of these methods.


Identification[edit]

DeviceDriverIdentification.png

On the Identification tab, the expected *IDN? response of the test and measurement device can be configured. It is used to determine if the correct test and measurement device is connected.


ScreenElementDescription.svg Expected response The expected *IDN? response of a device. It can be changed in the case the commands are the same for another device for which no RadiMation® driver is available yet.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Restore default Restores the original Exepected response.


Configurable Antenna Tower commands[edit]

ConfigurableAntennaTowerTab.png

On the Configurable antenna tower tab, the specific commands to control an antenna tower can be specified.

Initialisation and Check[edit]

ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset The reset code that needs to be send to device. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init The command that is send to initialize the configured device. When left blank no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get Id The command that is send to retrieve the ID of the device. This is used to check if the device is connected. A commonly used SCPI command is: *IDN?. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID The identifier is used to check if the correct device driver is selected and the device is connected. Leaving this blank, will skip the device check.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Specifies the command that is send when the device is no longer controlled. This can for example be used to put the measurement device is an intrinsic safe state. Leaving this blank, will keep the device in its last state after controlling it.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Completion after sending command The checkmark can be enabled so RadiMation® will wait for all the commands to complete, before it continues. This is done by sending SCPI command *OPC? to the device.


Antenna Tower[edit]

ScreenElementDescription.svg Stop Movement The command that is send to stop the antenna tower. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Current Height The command that is send to request the current height. When left blank no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Current Height Format A regular expression to parse the response from the Current Height request. The received value will be interpreted as being the the unit in Meter, Centimeter or Millimeter, as selected by the dropdownbox.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Go to Height The command that is send to move the antenna tower to a certain height. The command must include a keyword, __meter__, __centimeter__ or __millimeter__ which will be replaced with the corresponding height for the antenna tower. When left blank, no command will be sent.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Position stopped The command that is send to request the status if the antenna tower is moving. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Position stopped format A regular expression which will be matched against the response of the Position stopped command. When the result is matching with the response, the tower is stopped.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Current Polarization The command to request the current polarisation. It is mandatory to also supply the format of the polarization in the next fields. When left blank, no command will be sent.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Horizontal Polarization format A regular expression which will be matched against the response of the Current Polarization command. When the result is matching the driver reports Horizontal back to RadiMation.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Vertical Polarization format A regular expression which will be matched against the response of the Current Polarization command. When the result is matching the driver reports Vertical back to RadiMation.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Hor. Polarization The command that is send to change the polarization to horizontal. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Vert. Polarization The command that is send to change the polarization to vertical. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Pol Hor. stopped The command that is send after the command Hor. Polarization is sent, with a delay of Waiting time between the two commands. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Pol Vert. stopped The command that is send after the command Vert. Polarization is sent, with a delay of Waiting time between the two commands. When left blank, no command will be send.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Waiting time The wait time, specified in milli seconds, between the Polarization command and Polarization stopped commands.


Antenna Tower Advanced[edit]

DeviceDriverAntennaTowerAdvanced.png

On the Advanced tab, more advanced settings regarding the control of the antenna tower can be selected and configured.


ScreenElementDescription.svg Ignore height change When checked, no height related commands and changes will be send to the antenna tower. This can for example be checked if the the antenna is mounted on a fixed height tripod.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Ignore polarisation change When checked, no polarisation related commands and changes will be send to the Antenna Tower. This can for example be checked if the antenna tower does not have a automatic polariser.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Move antenna before measurement When checked, the antenna will be moved to the Start position before the actual test is started.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Start position The height, specified in centimeters, to which the antenna is moved, before the actual test is started.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Move antenna after measurement When checked, the antenna will be moved to the End position after the test has finished.
ScreenElementDescription.svg End position The height, specified in centimeters, to which the antenna is moved, after the test has finished.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait time The time, specified in seconds, to wait after a command is issued to change the polarisation. This can for example be used to include an additional delay to ensure that the antenna polariser has reached the final location before the actual test continues.


Configurable Absorbing Clamps[edit]

Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency

Configurable Clamp positioner[edit]

Currently unavailable.

Configurable Cable[edit]

Only the start and stop frequency can be set for the amplifier. Chapter generic settings will give more information about the start and stop frequency

Configurable Switch matrix[edit]

The Configurable Switch Matrix device driver is a Switch Matrix which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Screenshot configurable switch matrix configuration window.png

For all text field applies: when a text field is left empty, no command is being send at that time.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Device Driver
ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset Text field to specify the reset command. The command is send to the device during the test initialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init Text field to specify the initialize command. The command is send to the device during the test initialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID Text field to specify the *IDN? query. The command is send to the device during the device check.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID Text field to specify the expected respond to have the Get ID compared with. The string is used during the device check in case a query is specified.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Text field to specify the deinitialize command. The command is send to the device during the test deinitialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Operation
ScreenElementDescription.svg During Test The command is send to the device just before starting the test.
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Test The command is send to the device after finishing the test.
ScreenElementDescription.svg After sending perform a read and discard result When selected the driver will perform a read after sending the command. Some device need to be read out before

sending the next command.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Operation Complete
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Operation Completion after sending command(s) This will append the *OPC? to the commands being send.

Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom2.png

The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event. In several of the commands a keyword can be specified, which will be replaced by the actual value.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Test
ScreenElementDescription.svg Test started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Test stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Signal
ScreenElementDescription.svg Frequency changed Keyword __freq__ will be replaced by the frequency in MHz.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Carrier Level changed Keyword __carrier__, will be replaced by the carrier level in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation on
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation off


Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom3.png


The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event. Depending on the event, the keyword __result__ can be used and is replaced by a value. For example: "My forward power is __result__dBm" will be replaced by: "My forward power is -3.15dBm".

ScreenElementDescription.svg Measurements
ScreenElementDescription.svg Before Forward Power
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Forward Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Forward power in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Before Reflected Power
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Reflected Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Reflected power in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Net Forward Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Net power in dBm
ScreenElementDescription.svg Field Sensor Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Field strength in V/m

Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom4.png

The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower changed
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower polarization
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable changed

In all of the commands, it is also possible to include a keyword to insert the latest known value of another measurement value. Several keywords are available can be included in these commands. When one of these keywords is detected, it will be replaced by the corresponding value.

keyword inserted value
__freq__ the signal generator frequency expressed in MHz
__freqHz__ the signal generator frequency expressed in Hz
__freqkHz__ the signal generator frequency expressed in kHz
__freqMHz__ the signal generator frequency expressed in MHz
__freqGHz__ the signal generator frequency expressed in GHz
__carrier__ the signal generator carrier level expressed in dBm
__carrierdBm__ the signal generator carrier level expressed in dBm
__carrierW__ the signal generator carrier level expressed in Watt
__carriermW__ the signal generator carrier level expressed in milli-Watt
__forward__ the forward power expressed in dBm
__forwarddBm__ the forward power expressed in dBm
__forwardW__ the forward power expressed in Watt
__forwardmW__ the forward power expressed in milli-Watt
__reflected__ the reflected power expressed in dBm
__reflecteddBm__ the reflected power expressed in dBm
__reflectedW__ the reflected power expressed in Watt
__reflectedmW__ the reflected power expressed in milli-Watt
__height__ the height where the antenna is moving to expressed in metre
__heightm__ the height where the antenna is moving to expressed in metre
__heightcm__ the height where the antenna is moving to expressed in centimetre
__angle__ the angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in degrees
__degree__ the angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in degrees
__radian__ the angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in radians

Some remarks should be taken into account with these keywords:

  • the keywords are case sensitive,
  • the latest known value at that moment will be used,
  • if no value is known at all, the keyword will not be replaced, and will remain in the command,
  • the values are transmitted in non-scientific notation, and will use a '.' as a decimal point.

EUT Controller[edit]

The Configurable EUT Controller device driver is a EUT Controller which is supported by RadiMation®.  

Screenshot configurable switch matrix configuration window.png

For all text field applies: when a text field is left empty, no command is being send at that time.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Device Driver
ScreenElementDescription.svg Reset Text field to specify the reset command. The command is send to the device during the test initialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Init Text field to specify the initialize command. The command is send to the device during the test initialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Get ID Text field to specify the *IDN? query. The command is send to the device during the device check.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Returned ID Text field to specify the expected respond to have the Get ID compared with. The string is used during the device check in case a query is specified.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Deinit Text field to specify the deinitialize command. The command is send to the device during the test deinitialization.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Operation
ScreenElementDescription.svg During Test The command is send to the device just before starting the test.
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Test The command is send to the device after finishing the test.
ScreenElementDescription.svg After sending perform a read and discard result When selected the driver will perform a read after sending the command. Some device need to be read out before

sending the next command.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Operation Complete
ScreenElementDescription.svg Wait for Operation Completion after sending command(s) This will append the *OPC? to the commands being send.

Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom2.png

The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event. In several of the commands a keyword can be specified, which will be replaced by the actual value.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Test
ScreenElementDescription.svg Test started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Test stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Signal
ScreenElementDescription.svg Frequency changed Keyword __freq__ will be replaced by the frequency in MHz.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Carrier Level changed Keyword __carrier__, will be replaced by the carrier level in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Dwell-time stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation on
ScreenElementDescription.svg Modulation off


Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom3.png


The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event. Depending on the event, the keyword __result__ can be used and is replaced by a value. For example: "My forward power is __result__dBm" will be replaced by: "My forward power is -3.15dBm".

ScreenElementDescription.svg Measurements
ScreenElementDescription.svg Before Forward Power
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Forward Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Forward power in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Before Reflected Power
ScreenElementDescription.svg After Reflected Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Reflected power in dBm.
ScreenElementDescription.svg Net Forward Power Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Net power in dBm
ScreenElementDescription.svg Field Sensor Keyword __result__ will be replaced by measured Field strength in V/m

Configurable switch matrix configuration window custom4.png

The following fields can be specified to send commands at each event.

ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower changed
ScreenElementDescription.svg Antenna Tower polarization
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable started
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable stopped
ScreenElementDescription.svg Turntable changed

In all of the commands, it is also possible to include a keyword to insert the latest known value of another measurement value. Several keywords are available can be included in these commands. When one of these keywords is detected, it will be replaced by the corresponding value.

keyword inserted value
__freq__ The signal generator frequency expressed in MHz
__freqHz__ The signal generator frequency expressed in Hz
__freqkHz__ The signal generator frequency expressed in kHz
__freqMHz__ The signal generator frequency expressed in MHz
__freqGHz__ The signal generator frequency expressed in GHz
__carrier__ The signal generator carrier level expressed in dBm
__carrierdBm__ The signal generator carrier level expressed in dBm
__carrierW__ The signal generator carrier level expressed in Watt
__carriermW__ The signal generator carrier level expressed in milli-Watt
__forward__ The forward power expressed in dBm
__forwarddBm__ The forward power expressed in dBm
__forwardW__ The forward power expressed in Watt
__forwardmW__ The forward power expressed in milli-Watt
__reflected__ The reflected power expressed in dBm
__reflecteddBm__ The reflected power expressed in dBm
__reflectedW__ The reflected power expressed in Watt
__reflectedmW__ The reflected power expressed in milli-Watt
__height__ The height where the antenna is moving to expressed in metre
__heightm__ The height where the antenna is moving to expressed in metre
__heightcm__ The height where the antenna is moving to expressed in centimetre
__angle__ The angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in degrees
__degree__ The angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in degrees
__radian__ The angle where the turntable is turning to expressed in radians
__polarisation__ The antenna polarisation where the antenna is set to expressed as 'Horizontal' of 'Vertical'.
__averagefield__ The averagefield expressed in V/m.
__calculatedfield__ The calculated field expressed in V/m.
__modulation__ The current modulation as textual description of the applied modulation. For example: 'None', 'AM:1 kHz, 80%', 'FM: 1 kHz, 20 kHz' or 'PM: 200 Hz, 15%'.
__modulationtype__ The current modulation type, where this can be 'None', 'AM', 'FM' or 'Pulse'.
__modulationfrequency__ The modulation frequency expressed in Hz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationfrequencyHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in Hz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationfrequencykHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in kHz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationfrequencyMHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in MHz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationdepth__ The modulation depth that is being used by the AM modulation, if the AM modulation is active.
__modulationdeviation__ The modulation frequency expressed in Hz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationdeviationHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in Hz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationdeviationkHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in kHz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationdeviationMHz__ The modulation frequency expressed in MHz, if the modulation is active.
__modulationdutycycle__ The dutycycle expressed in %, if pulse modulation is active.
__calculatedvoltage__ The calculated current expressed in dBA.
__calculatedcurrent__ The calculated current expressed in A.
__calculatedcurrentuA__ The calculated current expressed in uA.
__calculatedcurrentmA__ The calculated current expressed in mA.
__calculatedcurrentA__ The calculated current expressed in A.
__calculatedcurrentdBuA__ The calculated current expressed in dBuA.
__calculatedcurrentdBmA__ The calculated current expressed in dBmA.
__calculatedcurrentdBA__ The calculated current expressed in dBA.
__<InformationItemName>__ The value of the corresponding EUT or General information item.

Some remarks should be taken into account with these keywords:

  • the keywords are case sensitive,
  • the latest known value at that moment will be used,
  • if no value is known at all, the keyword will not be replaced, and will remain in the command,
  • the values are transmitted in non-scientific notation, and will use a '.' as a decimal point.

Messages[edit]

This Device cannot be configured[edit]

Amplifier Device Driver Can Not Be Configured Window.png

This message box is displayed when you want to edit a device driver that cannot be configured, like a coupler or calibration jig. This does not mean that the device driver is useless. Please see chapter Configurable device drivers vs. none configurable device drivers for explanation. Nowadays also information about the used configuration is showed in this message to the end-user.

Unknown Device Driver[edit]

Unknown Device Driver Window.png

This message box is displayed when RadiMation® is trying to locate a device driver and was unable to find it. If you see this message please contact your reseller and tell him which driver you are trying to use. The reseller will take action so that you will receive the right device driver.

GPIB: Device is not connected[edit]

GPIB Not Connected Window.png

This message box is displayed when RadiMation® is unable to connect to a device when using GPIB. Please check the cable and the GPIB device driver address setting.

Device not connected[edit]

This message box is displayed when RadiMation® is unable to connect to the device. Please check cables and device driver settings.

How to Report an Error[edit]

When encountering a problem with the software you might would like to report it to the RadiMation support. The RadiMation error popups, contains detailed section. This can be expanded with details button on the error popup. In the expanded detailed error popup, a Report Error button is present. This allows Error Reporting to the RadiMation support within RadiMation. More information about Error Reporting can be found here: https://wiki.radimation.com/wiki/index.php/Error_Report

ErrorPopupWindow.png

AD convertors[edit]

This chapter will describe the currently supported AD convertors, there minimum and maximum value. Some drivers give different information when selecting different AD convertor channels.

National Instruments 6023E 8 Analog inputs[edit]

Type of communication: IEEE.

Channels 1:

Hewlett Packard 34401A[edit]

Type of communication: IEEE.

Channel 1

Type of measurement: AC Volt

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 1 kVolt.


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: AC Current

Minimum value: 0 Amp.

Maximum value: 3 Amp.


Channel 3

Type of measurement: DC Volt

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 750 Volt (rms).


Channel 4:

Type of measurement: DC Current

Minimum value: 0 Amp.

Maximum value: 3 Amp. (rms)


Channel 5

Type of measurement: Resistance (Ω)

Minimum value: 0 Ω

Maximum value: 100 MΩ


Channel 6

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz.

Maximum value: 300 kHz


Channel 7 and 8

Not used

Hewlett Packard 54600[edit]

Type of communication: RS 232.

Channel 1:

Type of measurement: V Max.

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 1000 Volt.


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: V Min

Minimum value: 0 Volt.

Maximum value: 1000 Volt.


Channel 3

Type of measurement: V Average

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 1000 Volt.


Channel 4:

Type of measurement: VPP (peak-peak)

Minimum value: 0 Volt.

Maximum value: 1000 Volt.


Channel 5

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 100 kHz


Channel 6

Type of measurement: Period

Minimum value: 0 ms

Maximum value: 10000 ms


Channel 7

Type of measurement: Rise Time

Minimum value: 0 ms

Maximum value: 10000 ms


Channel 8

Type of measurement: Fall Time

Minimum value: 0 ms

Maximum value: 10000 ms

Hewlett Packard 3562A[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 dB

Maximum value: 100 dB

Hewlett Packard 59313[edit]

For all the channels is 0 is maximum negative, 1024 is zero and 2048 is maximum positive.

Type of communication: GPIB

Channel 1

Type of measurement: AD channel 1

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 2048


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: AD channel 2

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 2048


Channel 3

Type of measurement: AD channel 4

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 2048


Channel 4:

Type of measurement: AD channel 8

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 2048


Channel 5 to 8

Not used.

Hewlett Packard 59313[edit]

For all the channels is 0 is maximum negative, 1024 is zero and 2048 is maximum positive.

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 Maximum value: 100

Marconi 2305[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channel 1

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 1000 MHz


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: AM modulation or FM frequency Deviation

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 1000


Channel 3 to 8

Not used.

Fluke 45 AC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Fluke 45 DC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Fluke 45 AC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 1.000.000 mV

Fluke 45 DC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 1.000.000 mV

Fluke 45 Frequency[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 1.000.000 Hz

Fluke 45 Resistance[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 Ω

Maximum value: 100.000.000 Ω

LeCroy 9304AM Channel A,B,C,D[edit]

Select channel A for channel A, channel B for channel B etc etc.

Type of communication: IEEE.

Channel 1

Type of measurement: Minimum value

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 353.55 Volt.


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: Maximum value

Minimum value: 0 Volt

Maximum value: 353.55 Volt


Channel 3

Type of measurement: Amplitude

Minimum value: 0Volt

Maximum value: 353.55 Volt


Channel 4:

Type of measurement: Peak to peak

Minimum value: 0 Volt

Maximum value: 707.1 Volt


Channel 5

Type of measurement: RMS

Minimum value: 0 Volt

Maximum value: 250 Volt


Channel 6

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz.

Maximum value: 200 MHz


Channel 7 and 8

Not used

Fluke 8840A AC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Fluke 8840A DC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Fluke 8840A AC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 1.000.000 mV

Fluke 8840A DC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 1.000.000 mV

Hewlett Packard 3478A AC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Hewlett Packard 3478A DC Current[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mA

Maximum value: 10.000 mA

Hewlett Packard 3478A AC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 300.000 mV

Hewlett Packard 3478A DC Voltage[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels

All the channels give the same value back.

Minimum value: 0 mV

Maximum value: 300.000 mV

Tektronix TDS 400 Series[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels 1 to 4

The value of the selected channel will be given back.

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 100


Channels 5 to 8

Not used

Tektronix TDS 500A Series[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels 1 to 4

The value of the selected channel will be given back.

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 100


Channels 5 to 8

Not used

Tektronix TDS 600A Series[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels 1 to 4

The value of the selected channel will be given back.

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 100


Channels 5 to 8

Not used

Tektronix TDS 3000 Series[edit]

Type of communication: GPIB

Channels 1 to 4

The value of the selected channel will be given back.

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 100


Channels 5 to 8

Not used

DARE!! Development Radimate 2 and 3[edit]

Type of communication: RS 232

Channels 1 to 8

The value of the selected channel will be given back.

Minimum value: 0

Maximum value: 16383

EIP 575[edit]

Type of communication: IEEE

Channel 1

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 10 kHz


Channel 2:

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz.

Maximum value: 100 kHz


Channel 3

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 1 MHz.


Channel 4:

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz.

Maximum value: 10 MHz.


Channel 5

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 100 MHz


Channel 6

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 1 GHz


Channel 7

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 10 GHz


Channel 8

Type of measurement: Frequency

Minimum value: 0 Hz

Maximum value: 100 GHz

Parallel Port Input 0x3BC and 0x378[edit]

Channel 1 to 8

Every channel represents one bit of the 8-bits port.

So when bit 4 is changing then you will see this in channel 4.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

A serial communication system, often used to control small equipment connected to a PC.

Analog to Digital

General Purpose Industrial Bus: A communication system used to 'remote control' test and measurement equipment.

Universal Serial Bus: A modern serially controlled communication system, found on all new PC's

Vertical Coupling Plane

Personal Computer

The Virtual Instrument Software Architecture is a standard for configuring, programming, and troubleshooting instrumentation systems comprising GPIB, VXI, PXI, Serial, Ethernet, and/or USB interfaces.

Power expressed in milliWatt in dB values.

  • 1 mW = 0 dBm
  • 2 mW = 3 dBm
  • 100 mW = 20 dBm
  • 1 W = 30 dBm
  • 100 W = 50 dBm

The ability of an EUT to be immune to incoming electromagnetic interference. This is equivalent to the term susceptibility that is used by some standards.

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