Optoelectronics & Engineering Services Transimpedance Amplifier for Photovoltaic Testing HIGHLIGHTS • Testing photovoltaic cells • Maximum input current • High frequency • AC Gain and bandwidth control • Quality control 6 gain ranges 4 bandwidths MEASUREMENT PRINCIPLE The TZA600 series of amplifiers employs precision transimpedance input stages to provide for high common mode rejection and linearity throughout the full dynamic range. Two separate measurement channels separately analyse the AC and DC components of a single input. A separate bias voltage input provides a convenient method of biasing the cell under test with up to 10VDC. The TZA600 series is insensitive to electromagnetic interference by design, an important factor when working in „dirty“ industrial environments. These transimpedance amplifiers are designed for the simultaneous measurement of AC and DC currents from photovoltaic devices. The outputs are voltages linearly proportional to the input currents. The AC channel measures alternating currents superimposed on the DC current. Excellent decoupling of the two channels allows a measurement sensitivity of up to 100 V/µA even with bias currents of up to 500mA. Artifex Engineering Dortmunder Str. 16-18 26723 Emden, Germany mail: [email protected] http://www.afx-eng.com

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS Average current Bias voltage Temperature range ORDERING INFORMATION Full order code: For customized systems (eg: customized gain or receptacles or mixed amplifier systems), please contact us.

SPECIFICATIONS Parameter Input Current ranges (full scale) Noise equivalent current (NEIRMS) Output Function Linear analogue Vout = scale x Iin Output scale, DC Output scale, AC Connectors Output range (full scale) Frequency range Output impedance Logic Current required for switching (5V) Switching time Power Supply Type Wall plug (supplied) Dimensions 1 channel 19” rack modules Adapters for other connector systems available upon request Logic switching < 1µs. Effective switching time limited by settling time. 130 mm including case wings

The Front and Back Panels

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MEASUREMENT To make a measurement, proceed as follows: 1. Turn the unit on. For the most accurate measurement, please allow for a 15 minute warm up before using. Connect a current source to the unit via the corresponding receptacle. Connect a BNC-cable from the output socket to a suitable measurement instrument (voltmeter, oscilloscope, I/O card, etc.). Alternatively, the output may be taken from the interface receptacle using the interface cable supplied with the unit. Where appropriate, connect a bias source to the bias input. Select the appropriate range setting for the expected...

INTERFACE (AC CHANNEL ONLY) The interface on the back panel allows control of the unit, as well as readout of the measurement values. The pin correlation of the interface is given in the following table: pin 1 2 3 4 5 6 function n.c. n.c. AGND (analogue ground) digital output: HI = power on digital output: HI = overload analogue output: function n.c. digital control input: BW digital control input: BW = 100 Hz digital control input: BW = 10 Hz digital control input: output polarity 7 n.c. 20* n.c. 8 n.c. 21 n.c. 9 DGND (digital ground) 22 n.c. 10* digital control input: gain LSB 23 n.c. 11* digital...

Output polarity (pin 18, AC channel only) LO = positive output for current sourced into the BNC centre conductor. HI = positive output for current sunk out of the BNC centre conductor. Thus, when measuring the current from a photodiode, the polarity will be as follows: Current sink Ground (current source) negative output positive output positive output negative output Current source Ground (current sink)

DAMAGE The unit may be damaged by exceeding the maximum average input current. Please read „Absolute Maximum Ratings“ for these maximum values before working with the instrument. Use only the power supply and power supply cable provided with the unit. TROUBLESHOOTING In the event that a measurement is not successful, the following possibilities should be analysed: Symptom Possible Errors • Ensure the power cord is connected at both ends and switch the system on. Output at full scale, independant of input current • Switch to more sensitive range or increase input power • Input or output connection...

NOTICE Artifex Engineering reserves the right to make changes to its products or to discontinue any product or service without notice and advises customers to obtain the latest version of relevant information to verify, before placing orders, that information being relied on is current and complete. All products are sold subject to the terms and conditions of sale supplied at the time of order acknowledgement, including those pertaining to warranty, patent infringement and limitation of liability. Customers are responsible for their applications using Artifex Engineering components. Artifex Engineering...