Manual - 8500A Series Peak Power Meter - Giga-tronics

Series 8500A Peak Power Meters
2.9 Digital Plotting of Graphic Data
2.9.1 Plotters Supported
The PPM is configured to provide direct output of Graph Mode information for hardcopy recording on a
digital plotter. This is done without the necessity of using a computer or GPIB controller. The following
plotters (and any other 100% compatible plotters) are supported:
Hewlett-Packard Model 7440A
Hewlett-Packard Model 7470A
Hewlett-Packard Model 7475A
All of the above plotters must be configured with the option for GPIB usage.
2.9.2 Procedure for Making Plots
The procedure for making plots with the PPM is quite simple. Plots can be made when in the Graph
Mode and Marker sub-mode, and the plots will be essentially duplications of the information shown on
the PPM display at the time the plot function is activated.
Two different plotting speeds can be selected by the PPM. These are: a Fast Plot for use with normal
plotting paper, and a Slow Plot for making plots using transparent paper (film).
To make a (fast) paper plot, press [MENU] (2) [F3] [F1]
To make a (slow) transparency plot, press [MENU] (2) [F3] [F2].
When the PPM has drawn a complete pulse profile on its display, it is ready to act as a GPIB controller.
If the PPM is part of a GPIB system, it is up to the user to be sure that no front panel plot function is
initiated to ensure correct operation of the system.
The following steps are required to generate an X-Y hardcopy plot:
1. Connect a GPIB cable from the PPM’s rear panel GPIB connection to the plotter’s GPIB input
connection.
2. Choose a GPIB address for the plotter, and set its address switches according to the instructions
in its operating manual. (Address 6 is recommended; see Step 3.)
3. Select the plotter address for the PPM by pressing [MENU] (6) [F2] [nn] [UNITS].
Where nn is the plotter address. The default address to which the PPM sends data is 6. If the
plotter address is changed from the default value of 6, it will remain at the new value until
another value is entered. That is, it is not reset at power-on or any other time until intentionally
changed again.
4. Check that the plotter pens are installed and operating properly. Following the manufacturer’s
instructions, insert paper into the plotter and prepare it to plot.
5. If it is required or desired, enter a Code number or Part number to be printed on the plot. If no
Code and Part numbers are selected, numbers previously entered will be plotted. The default
numbers are blank.
a. Enter the Code number as follows:
[MENU] (5) [F1] [n] [UNITS]
(n is a number up to 12 digits.)
2-30 Manual No. 20790, Rev C, November 1998
Superceded by Revision D, March 2009