2450-900-01E Aug 2019 User

tek.
com/keithley
Model 2450
SourceMeter® Instrument
User’s Manual
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019
*P2450-900-01E*
2450-900-01E
Model 2450
SourceMeter® Instrument
User's Manual
© 2019, Keithley Instruments, LLC
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
All rights reserved.
Any unauthorized reproduction, photocopy, or use of the information herein, in whole or in part,
without the prior written approval of Keithley Instruments, LLC, is strictly prohibited.
These are the original instructions in English.
TSP®, TSP-Link®, and TSP-Net® are trademarks of Keithley Instruments, LLC. All Keithley
Instruments product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, LLC.
Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
The Lua 5.0 software and associated documentation files are copyright © 1994 - 2015, Lua.org,
PUC-Rio. You can access terms of license for the Lua software and associated documentation at
the Lua licensing site (http://www.lua.org/license.html).
Microsoft, Visual C++, Excel, and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Document number: 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Safety precautions
The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. Although
some instruments and accessories would normally be used with nonhazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous
conditions may be present.
This product is intended for use by personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions required
to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the
product. Refer to the user documentation for complete product specifications.
If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection provided by the product warranty may be impaired.
The types of product users are:

Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that the
equipment is operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.
Operators use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of the
instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.
Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting the line
voltage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the user documentation. The procedures
explicitly state if the operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.
Service personnel are trained to work on live circuits, perform safe installations, and repair products. Only properly trained
service personnel may perform installation and service procedures.
Keithley products are designed for use with electrical signals that are measurement, control, and data I/O connections, with low
transient overvoltages, and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient
overvoltages. Measurement Category II (as referenced in IEC 60664) connections require protection for high transient
overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Certain Keithley measuring instruments may be connected to
mains. These instruments will be marked as category II or higher.
Unless explicitly allowed in the specifications, operating manual, and instrument labels, do not connect any instrument to mains.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test
fixtures. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than
30 V RMS, 42.4 V peak, or 60 VDC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any
unknown circuit before measuring.
Operators of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible body must ensure that operators
are prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential
human contact. Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of electric shock. If
the circuit is capable of operating at or above 1000 V, no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.
Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended to be used with impedance-limited
sources. NEVER connect switching cards directly to AC mains. When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective
devices to limit fault current and voltage to the card.
Before operating an instrument, ensure that the line cord is connected to a properly-grounded power receptacle. Inspect the
connecting cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.
When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main input
power disconnect device must be provided in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the circuit under
test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting
cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or removing jumpers.
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth)
ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the
voltage being measured.
For safety, instruments and accessories must be used in accordance with the operating instructions. If the instruments or
accessories are used in a manner not specified in the operating instructions, the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories. Maximum signal levels are defined in the
specifications and operating information and shown on the instrument panels, test fixture panels, and switching cards.
When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard.
Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as protective earth (safety ground)
connections.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires the use
of a lid interlock.
If a screw is present, connect it to protective earth (safety ground) using the wire recommended in the user documentation.
The symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of hazard. The user must refer to the operating instructions located in the
user documentation in all cases where the symbol is marked on the instrument.
The symbol on an instrument means warning, risk of electric shock. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal
contact with these voltages.
The symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to prevent burns.
The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.
If this symbol is on a product, it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please note that the lamp must be
properly disposed of according to federal, state, and local laws.
The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains hazards that might result in personal injury or death. Always read
the associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading in the user documentation explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may
invalidate the warranty.
The CAUTION heading with the symbol in the user documentation explains hazards that could result in moderate or minor
injury or damage the instrument. Always read the associated information very carefully before performing the indicated
procedure. Damage to the instrument may invalidate the warranty.
Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.
Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.
To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains circuits — including the power
transformer, test leads, and input jacks — must be purchased from Keithley. Standard fuses with applicable national safety
approvals may be used if the rating and type are the same. The detachable mains power cord provided with the instrument may
only be replaced with a similarly rated power cord. Other components that are not safety-related may be purchased from other
suppliers as long as they are equivalent to the original component (note that selected parts should be purchased only through
Keithley to maintain accuracy and functionality of the product). If you are unsure about the applicability of a replacement
component, call a Keithley office for information.
Unless otherwise noted in product-specific literature, Keithley instruments are designed to operate indoors only, in the following
environment: Altitude at or below 2,000 m (6,562 ft); temperature 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F); and pollution degree 1 or 2.
To clean an instrument, use a cloth dampened with deionized water or mild, water-based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the
instrument only. Do not apply cleaner directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that
consist of a circuit board with no case or chassis (e.g., a data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never
require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the board becomes contaminated and operation is affected, the board
should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.
Safety precaution revision as of June 2017.
Table of contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 1-1
Welcome .............................................................................................................................. 1-1
Introduction to this manual ................................................................................................... 1-1
Extended warranty ............................................................................................................... 1-2
Contact information .............................................................................................................. 1-2
Available documentation ...................................................................................................... 1-2
Organization of manual sections .......................................................................................... 1-3
Applications .......................................................................................................................... 1-3
Front-panel overview ................................................................................................. 2-1

Power the instrument on or off ............................................................................................. 2-1
Front-panel overview............................................................................................................ 2-2
Turn the 2450 output on or off ............................................................................................. 2-4
Touchscreen display ............................................................................................................ 2-5
Select items on the touchscreen ............................................................................................... 2-5
Scroll bars ................................................................................................................................. 2-6
Interactive swipe screens .......................................................................................................... 2-6
Menu overview ........................................................................................................................ 2-10
Store measurements on a USB flash drive ........................................................................ 2-10
Save screen captures to a USB flash drive ....................................................................... 2-11
Using a remote interface ........................................................................................... 3-1

Remote communications interfaces ..................................................................................... 3-1
Supported remote interfaces ................................................................................................ 3-1
GPIB communications.......................................................................................................... 3-2
Install the GPIB driver software ................................................................................................. 3-2
Install the GPIB cards in your computer .................................................................................... 3-2
Connect GPIB cables to your instrument .................................................................................. 3-2
Set the GPIB address ............................................................................................................... 3-3
LAN communications ........................................................................................................... 3-4
Set up LAN communications on the instrument ........................................................................ 3-5
Set up LAN communications on the computer .......................................................................... 3-6
USB communications ........................................................................................................... 3-7
Connect a computer to the 2450 using USB ............................................................................. 3-8
Communicate with the instrument ............................................................................................. 3-8
Using the web interface...................................................................................................... 3-12
Connect to the instrument web interface ................................................................................. 3-12
LAN troubleshooting suggestions ............................................................................................ 3-12
Web interface Home page....................................................................................................... 3-13
Identify the instrument ............................................................................................................. 3-14
Review events in the event log................................................................................................ 3-14
Determine the command set to use ................................................................................... 3-15
Table of contents Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Making basic front-panel measurements ................................................................ 4-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 4-1
Equipment required for this application................................................................................ 4-2
Device connections .............................................................................................................. 4-2
Make front-panel measurements ......................................................................................... 4-3
How to make front-panel measurements .................................................................................. 4-3
Measuring low-resistance devices ........................................................................... 5-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 5-1
Equipment required .............................................................................................................. 5-1
Set up remote communications ........................................................................................... 5-2
Low-resistance measurements ............................................................................................ 5-5
Set up the measurement from the front panel ........................................................................... 5-5
View the measurements on the front-panel GRAPH swipe screen ........................................... 5-6
View the buffer statistics on the front panel ............................................................................... 5-7
Set up the low-resistance application using SCPI commands .................................................. 5-7
Set up the low-resistance application using TSP commands .................................................... 5-8
Leakage current and insulation resistance ............................................................. 6-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 6-1
Measuring leakage current .................................................................................................. 6-4
Set up the leakage current application using the front panel ..................................................... 6-5
View the measurements on the front-panel graph..................................................................... 6-6
Set up the leakage current application using SCPI commands ................................................. 6-7
Set up the leakage current application using TSP commands .................................................. 6-8
Measuring insulation resistance......................................................................................... 6-10
Set up the insulation resistance application using the front panel ........................................... 6-10
Viewing the measurements on the front-panel graph .............................................................. 6-11
Set up the application using SCPI commands ........................................................................ 6-12
Set up the application using TSP commands .......................................................................... 6-13
Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs ..................................................................... 7-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 7-1
Set up external hardware triggers ........................................................................................ 7-2
Connections for the SCPI command set ................................................................................... 7-3
Connections for the TSP command set ..................................................................................... 7-4
Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Table of contents

Remote control of FET testing using SCPI commands ....................................................... 7-6
Set up the application using SCPI commands with the trigger model ....................................... 7-6
Set up the application using SCPI commands in a linear sweep............................................... 7-9
Remote control of FET testing using TSP commands ....................................................... 7-10
Set up the application using TSP commands with the trigger model ....................................... 7-11
Set up the application using TSP commands in a linear sweep .............................................. 7-13
Rechargeable battery measurements ...................................................................... 8-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 8-1
Automated battery charge and discharge cycle testing ....................................................... 8-6
Set up remote communications ................................................................................................. 8-7
Set up the battery application using SCPI commands .............................................................. 8-7
Set up the battery application using TSP commands ................................................................ 8-9
Battery application test results ................................................................................................ 8-12
Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells ............................................................ 9-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 9-1
Solar cell characterization .................................................................................................... 9-5
Set up the solar cell I-V sweep from the front panel .................................................................. 9-6
Set up the solar cell I-V sweep using SCPI commands ............................................................ 9-7
Set up the solar cell I-V sweep using TSP commands .............................................................. 9-8
Troubleshooting FAQs ............................................................................................ 10-1

About this section ............................................................................................................... 10-1
Where can I find updated drivers? ..................................................................................... 10-1
How do I upgrade the firmware? ........................................................................................ 10-2
Why can't the 2450 read my USB flash drive? .................................................................. 10-3
How do I change the command set? ................................................................................. 10-3
Why am I getting a 5074 event code? ............................................................................... 10-4
How do I save the present state of the instrument? .......................................................... 10-5
Why did my settings change? ............................................................................................ 10-6
What are the Quick Setup options? ................................................................................... 10-6
Next steps ................................................................................................................. 11-1

Additional 2450 information ............................................................................................... 11-1
Section 1
Introduction
In this section:
Welcome .................................................................................. 1-1
Introduction to this manual ....................................................... 1-1
Extended warranty ................................................................... 1-2
Contact information .................................................................. 1-2
Available documentation .......................................................... 1-2
Organization of manual sections .............................................. 1-3
Applications .............................................................................. 1-3
Welcome
Thank you for choosing a Keithley Instruments product. The 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument is a
precise, low-noise instrument that combines a stable DC power supply, current source, electronic
load, and a high-impedance multimeter. This instrument features intuitive setup and control,
enhanced signal quality and range, and better resistivity and resistance capabilities than similar
products on the market.
With 0.012 percent basic accuracy at 6½-digit resolution, the 2450 delivers 59 readings per second
over the IEEE-488 bus. At 4½-digit resolution, it can read up to 3000 readings per second into its
internal buffer.
Introduction to this manual

This manual provides detailed applications to help you achieve success with your Keithley
Instruments 2450. This manual also provides information about the basics of the front panel to
familiarize you with the instrument.
This manual presents an overview of each application, followed by instructions to complete the
application using the front panel, SCPI code, TSP code, or Keithley KickStart Software.
More information about the commands that are used in these applications is available. Refer to the
SCPI and TSP command reference sections of the Model 2450 Reference Manual. This manual is on
tek.com/keithley.
Section 1: Introduction Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Extended warranty
Additional years of warranty coverage are available on many products. These valuable contracts
protect you from unbudgeted service expenses and provide additional years of protection at a fraction
of the price of a repair. Extended warranties are available on new and existing products. Contact your
local Keithley Instruments office, sales partner, or distributor for details.
Contact information
If you have any questions after you review the information in this documentation, please contact your
local Keithley Instruments office, sales partner, or distributor. You can also call the corporate
headquarters of Keithley Instruments (toll-free inside the U.S. and Canada only) at 1-800-935-5595,
or from outside the U.S. at +1-440-248-0400. For worldwide contact numbers, visit the Keithley
Instruments website (tek.com/keithley).
Available documentation
The documentation for the 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument is available on the Keithley Instruments
website (tek.com/keithley).
The documentation includes:
• Quick Start Guide: Provides unpacking instructions, describes basic connections, reviews basic
operation information, and provides a quick test procedure to ensure the instrument is
operational.
• User’s Manual: Provides application examples that you can use as a starting point to create your
own applications.
• Reference Manual: Includes advanced operation topics, maintenance information,
troubleshooting procedures, and in-depth descriptions of programming commands.
• KickStart Software Quick Start Guide: Provides instructions for the KickStart Software, which
allows you to quickly make measurements and get results without having to program test scripts.
• Accessories information: Documentation for accessories that are available for the 2450.
For the latest drivers and additional support information, see the Keithley Instruments website
(tek.com/keithley).
1-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 1: Introduction
Organization of manual sections

This manual is organized into the following sections:
• Front-panel overview (on page 2-1): Describes the basics of using the front-panel interface.
• Using a remote interface (on page 3-1): Describes the basics of remote communications and
using the instrument web interface.
• Application examples (see below): Provides detailed examples of how to use the 2450 in some
typical situations.
• Troubleshooting FAQs (on page 10-1): Provides answers to frequently asked questions to help
you troubleshoot common problems encountered with the 2450.
• Next steps (on page 11-1): Provides information about additional resources that can help you use
the 2450.
The PDF version of this manual contains bookmarks for each section. The manual sections are also
listed in the Table of Contents at the beginning of this manual.
For more information about bookmarks, see Adobe® Acrobat® or Reader® help.
Applications
This manual provides application examples that show you how to perform tests from the front panel
and over a remote interface. These applications are presented after the summary information about
the 2450. The applications include:
• Making basic front-panel measurements (on page 4-1): Demonstrates the basic measurement
functionality using a single 2450 and a two-terminal device under test (DUT).
• Measuring low-resistance devices (on page 5-1): Demonstrates how to use a 2450 to make
low-resistance measurements of a 20 mΩ resistor.
• Leakage current and insulation resistance (on page 6-1): Two examples that demonstrate how to
use the 2450 to measure the leakage current of a capacitor and the insulation resistance between
the two conductors of a coaxial cable.
• Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs (on page 7-1): Two examples demonstrate how to use two
2450 instruments to perform a drain family of curves (Vds-Id) on a three-terminal MOSFET. One
example uses the 2450 trigger model; the other uses linear sweep commands to make the
measurements.
• Rechargeable battery measurements (on page 8-1): Demonstrates how to use a single 2450 to
perform automated battery discharge and charge cycle testing.
• Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells (on page 9-1): Demonstrates using an I-V sweep to
characterize a solar cell using the 2450.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 1-3

Section 2
Front-panel overview
In this section:
Power the instrument on or off ................................................. 2-1
Front-panel overview ................................................................ 2-2
Turn the 2450 output on or off .................................................. 2-4
Touchscreen display ................................................................ 2-5
Store measurements on a USB flash drive ............................ 2-10
Save screen captures to a USB flash drive ............................ 2-11
Power the instrument on or off

Follow the steps below to connect the 2450 to line power and turn on the instrument. The 2450
operates from a line voltage of 100 V to 240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz. It automatically
senses line voltage and frequency. Make sure the operating voltage in your area is compatible.
You must turn on the 2450 and allow it to warm up for at least one hour to achieve rated accuracies.
Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage may cause damage to the instrument,
possibly voiding the warranty.
The power cord supplied with the 2450 contains a separate protective earth (safety ground)
wire for use with grounded outlets. When proper connections are made, the instrument
chassis is connected to power-line ground through the ground wire in the power cord. In
addition, a redundant protective earth connection is provided through a screw on the rear
panel. This terminal should be connected to a known protective earth. In the event of a
failure, not using a properly grounded protective earth and grounded outlet may result in
personal injury or death due to electric shock.
Do not replace detachable mains supply cords with inadequately rated cords. Failure to use
properly rated cords may result in personal injury or death due to electric shock.
Section 2: Front-panel overview Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
To connect the power cord:

1. Make sure that the front-panel POWER switch is in the off (O) position.
2. Connect the female end of the supplied power cord to the AC receptacle on the rear panel.
3. Connect the male end of the power cord to a grounded AC outlet.
Figure 1: Model 2450 rear panel
To turn a 2450 on or off:

1. Before turning the instrument on, disconnect any devices under test (DUTs) from the 2450.
2. To turn your instrument on, press the front-panel POWER switch to place it in the on (|) position.
The instrument displays a status bar as it powers on. The home screen is displayed when power
on is complete.
3. To turn your instrument off, press the front-panel POWER switch to place it in the off (O) position.
Front-panel overview
The front panel of the 2450 is shown below. Descriptions of the controls on the front panel follow the
figure.
Figure 2: 2450 front panel
2-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 2: Front-panel overview
Control Graphic Description

POWER switch Turns the instrument on or off. To turn the instrument on, press the
power switch so that it is in the on position (|). To turn it off, press the
power switch so that it is in the off position (O).
HOME key Returns the display to the home screen.
MENU key Opens the main menu. Press the icons on the main menu to open
source, measure, views, trigger, scripts, and system screens.
QUICKSET key Opens a menu of preconfigured setups, including voltmeter,
ammeter, ohmmeter, and power supply. Also allows you to choose
source and measure functions and adjust performance for better
resolution or speed.
HELP key Opens help for the area or item that is selected on the display. If
there is no selection when you press the HELP key, it displays
overview information for the screen you are viewing. To display help,
hold the on-screen button while pressing the HELP key.
USB port Saves reading buffer data and screen snapshots to a USB flash
drive. You can also store and retrieve scripts to and from a USB flash
drive. The flash drive must be formatted as a FAT or FAT32 drive.
Touchscreen The 2450 has a high-resolution, five-inch color touchscreen display.

The touchscreen accesses swipe screens and menu options. You
can access additional interactive screens by pressing the front-panel
MENU, QUICKSET, and FUNCTION keys.
Navigation control Turning the navigation control: Moves the cursor to highlight a list
value or menu item so that you can select it. Turning the control when
the cursor is in a value entry field increases or decreases the value in
the field.
Pressing the navigation control: Selects the highlighted choice or
allows you to edit the selected field.
ENTER key Selects the highlighted choice or allows you to edit the selected field.
EXIT key Returns to the previous screen or closes a dialog box. For example,
press the EXIT key when the main menu is displayed to return to the
home screen. When you are viewing a subscreen (for example, the
Event Log screen), press the EXIT key to return to the main menu
screen.
FUNCTION key Displays instrument functions. To select a function, touch the function
name on the screen.
TRIGGER key Accesses trigger-related settings and operations. The action of the
TRIGGER key depends on the instrument state.
OUTPUT ON/OFF Turns the output source on or off. The switch illuminates when the
switch source output is on.
REMOTE LED Illuminates when the instrument is controlled through a remote
indicator interface.
LAN LED indicator Illuminates when the instrument is connected to a local area network
(LAN).
1588 LED indicator Note that 1588 functionality is not supported at this time.
INTERLOCK LED Illuminates when the interlock is enabled.
indicator
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-3

Control Graphic Description

SENSE terminals Use the SENSE HI and SENSE LO terminal connections to measure
voltage at the device under test (DUT). When you use sense leads,
measurement of the voltage drop across the force leads is
eliminated. This produces more accurate voltage sourcing and
measurement at the DUT.
FORCE terminals Use FORCE HI and FORCE LO terminal connections to source or

sink voltage or current to or from a device under test (DUT).
FRONT/REAR Activates the terminals on the front or rear panel. When the
TERMINALS switch front-panel terminals are active, a green “F” is visible to the left of the
FRONT/REAR switch. When the rear-panel terminals are active, a
yellow “R” is visible to the left of the switch.
Chassis connection Banana jack connector that provides a chassis connection.
Turn the 2450 output on or off

You can turn the 2450 output on from the front panel or by sending remote commands.
Turning the 2450 output off does not place the instrument in a safe state (an interlock is
provided for this function).
Hazardous voltages may be present on all output and guard terminals. To prevent electrical
shock that could cause injury or death, never make or break connections to the 2450 while
the instrument is powered on. Turn off the equipment from the front panel or disconnect the
main power cord from the rear of the 2450 before handling cables. Putting the equipment into
an output-off state does not guarantee that the outputs are powered off if a hardware or
software fault occurs.
When the source of the instrument is turned off, it may not completely isolate the instrument from the
external circuit. You can use the Output Off setting to place the 2450 in a known, noninteractive state
during idle periods, such as when you are changing the device under test. The output-off states that
can be selected for a 2450 are normal, high-impedance, zero, or guard.
See “Output-off state” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual for additional details.
2-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Using the front panel:

Press the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch. The instrument is in the output-on state when the switch is
illuminated. The instrument is in the output-off state when the switch is not illuminated.
Using SCPI commands:

To turn the output on, send the command:
:OUTPut:STATe ON
To turn the output off, send the command:
:OUTPut:STATe OFF
Using TSP commands:

To turn the output on, send the command:
smu.source.output = smu.ON
To turn the output off, send the command:
smu.source.output = smu.OFF
Touchscreen display
The touchscreen display gives you quick front-panel access to source and measure settings, system
configuration, instrument and test status, reading buffer information, and other instrument functionality.
The display has multiple swipe screens that you can access by swiping the front panel. You can
access additional interactive screens by pressing the front-panel MENU, QUICKSET, and FUNCTION
keys.
Do not use sharp metal objects, such as tweezers or screwdrivers, or pointed objects, such
as pens or pencils, to touch the touchscreen. It is strongly recommended that you use only
fingers to operate the instrument. Use of clean-room gloves to operate the touchscreen is
supported.
Select items on the touchscreen

To select an item on the displayed screen, do one of the following:
• Touch it with your finger

• Turn the navigation control to highlight the item, and then press the navigation control to select it
The following topics describe the 2450 touchscreen in more detail.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-5

Scroll bars
Some of the interactive screens have additional options that are only visible when you scroll down the
screen. A scroll indicator on the right side of the touchscreen identifies these screens. Swipe the
screen up or down to view the additional options.
The figure below shows a screen with a scroll bar.
Figure 3: Touchscreen scroll indicator
Interactive swipe screens

The 2450 touchscreen display has multiple screens that you can access by swiping left or right on the
lower half of the display. The options available in the swipe screens are described in the following
topics.
2-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Swipe screen heading bar

The heading bar of the swipe screen contains the following options.
Figure 4: Swipe screens, maximized and minimized
# Screen element Description

1 Minimize indicator You can swipe down to minimize the swipe screens.
2 Swipe screen indicator Each circle represents one swipe screen. As you swipe right or left, a different
circle changes color, indicating where you are in the screen sequence. Select a
circle to move the swipe screen without swiping.
3 Calculations shortcut Select to open the CALCULATION SETTINGS menu.
4 Measure Settings Select to open the MEASURE SETTINGS menu for the selected function.
shortcut
5 Restore indicator Indicates that you can swipe up to display the swipe screen.
6 Graph shortcut Select to open the Graph screen.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-7

SOURCE swipe screen

The SOURCE swipe screen shows the present value of the source and the set values for source,
source range, and source limit. You can change the set values from the front panel by selecting the
buttons on this screen.
Figure 5: SOURCE swipe screen
Source function indicators on the right side of the screen signify settings that affect the displayed
source value:
• MEAS: Source readback is on and the value shown is the measured value of the source.
• PROG: Source readback is off and the value shown is the programmed source value. If the
output is off, the displayed source value is replaced with Output Off.
When Limit label is shown in yellow, the instrument is limiting the source.
The present value is updated continuously when the measurement method is set to Continuous.
When the measurement method is set to Manual Trigger Mode or Initiate Trigger Model, the value is
updated when the next measurement occurs.
The icon on the right side of the swipe screen heading bar is a shortcut to the full SOURCE
SETTINGS menu.
SETTINGS swipe screen

The SETTINGS swipe screen gives you front-panel access to some instrument settings. It shows you
the present settings and allows you to change, enable, or disable them quickly.
Figure 6: SETTINGS swipe screen
To disable or enable a setting, select the box next to the setting so that it shows an X (disabled) or a
check mark (enabled).
The icons on the right side of the swipe screen heading bar are shortcuts to the CALCULATIONS
SETTINGS and MEASURE SETTINGS menus.
For descriptions of the settings, use the navigation control to select the button, then press the HELP
key.
2-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

STATISTICS swipe screen

The STATISTICS swipe screen contains information about the readings in the active reading buffer.
When the reading buffer is configured to fill continuously and overwrite old data with new data, the
buffer statistics include the data that was overwritten. To get statistics that do not include data that
has been overwritten, define a large buffer size that will accommodate the number of readings you
will make. You can use the Clear Active Buffer button on this screen to clear the data from the active
reading buffer.
Figure 7: STATISTICS swipe screen
USER swipe screen

If you program custom text, it is displayed on the USER swipe screen. For example, you can program
the 2450 to show that a test is in process. Refer to “Customizing a message for the USER swipe
screen” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual.
Figure 8: USER swipe screen
GRAPH swipe screen

The GRAPH swipe screen shows a graphical representation of the readings in the presently selected
reading buffer.
Figure 9: GRAPH swipe screen
To view the graph in the full screen and to access graph settings, select the graph icon on the right
side of the swipe screen header. You can also open the full-function Graph screen by pressing the
MENU key and selecting Graph under Views.
For more information about graphing measurements, see “Graphing” in the Model 2450 Reference
Manual.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-9

Menu overview
To access the main menu, press the MENU key on the 2450 front panel. The figure below shows the
organization of the main menu.
Figure 10: 2450 main menu
The main menu includes submenus that are labeled in green across the top of the display. Selecting
an option in a submenu opens an interactive screen.
Store measurements on a USB flash drive

If there is measurement data in the buffer, you can copy it from the 2450 to a USB flash drive. The
information is saved in the CSV file format.
To store measurement data:

1. Insert a flash drive into the front-panel USB port.
2. Press the MENU key.
3. In the Measure column, select Reading Buffers.
4. Select the buffer that you want to save.
5. Select Save to USB.
6. On the File Content dialog box, make selections as needed for your data set. You can press
HELP to get information about each option.
7. Select OK.
2-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Save screen captures to a USB flash drive

You can save a screen capture of the front-panel display to a graphic file on a USB flash drive. The
instrument saves the graphic file in PNG file format.
To save a screen capture:

1. Insert a USB flash drive into the USB port on the front panel of the instrument.
2. Navigate to the screen you want to capture.
3. Press the HOME and ENTER keys. The instrument displays “Saving screen capture.”
4. Release the keys.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-11

Section 3
Using a remote interface
In this section:
Remote communications interfaces ......................................... 3-1
Supported remote interfaces .................................................... 3-1
GPIB communications .............................................................. 3-2
LAN communications ............................................................... 3-4
USB communications ............................................................... 3-7
Using the web interface .......................................................... 3-12
Determine the command set to use ....................................... 3-15
Remote communications interfaces

You can choose from one of several communication interfaces to send commands to and receive
responses from the 2450.
You can control the 2450 from only one communications interface at a time. The first interface on
which the instrument receives a message takes control of the instrument. If another interface sends a
message, that interface can take control of the instrument. You may need to enter a password to
change the interface, depending on the setting of interface access.
The 2450 automatically detects the type of communications interface (LAN, USB, or GPIB) when you
connect to the respective port on the rear panel of the instrument. In most cases, you do not need to
configure anything on the instrument. In addition, you do not need to reboot if you change the type of
interface that is connected.
Supported remote interfaces

The 2450 supports the following remote interfaces:
• GPIB: IEEE-488 instrumentation general purpose interface bus

• Ethernet: Local-area-network communications
• USB: Type B USB port
• TSP-Link: A high-speed trigger synchronization and communications bus that test system
builders can use to connect multiple instruments in a master-and-subordinate configuration
For details about TSP-Link, see “TSP-Link System Expansion Interface” in the Model 2450 Reference
Manual.
Section 3: Using a remote interface Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
GPIB communications
The 2450 GPIB interface is IEEE Std 488.1 compliant and supports IEEE Std 488.2 common
commands and status model topology.
You can have up to 15 devices connected to a GPIB interface, including the controller. The maximum
cable length is the lesser of either:
• The number of devices multiplied by 2 m (6.5 ft)

• 20 m (65.6 ft)
You may see erratic bus operation if you ignore these limits.
Install the GPIB driver software

Check the documentation for your GPIB controller for information about where to acquire drivers.
Keithley Instruments also recommends that you check the website of the GPIB controller for the latest
version of drivers or software.
It is important that you install the drivers before you connect the hardware. This prevents associating
the incorrect driver to the hardware.
Install the GPIB cards in your computer

Refer to the documentation from the GPIB controller vendor for information about installing the GPIB
controllers.
Connect GPIB cables to your instrument

To connect a 2450 to the GPIB interface, use a cable equipped with standard GPIB connectors, as
shown below.
Figure 11: GPIB connector
3-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 3: Using a remote interface
To allow many parallel connections to one instrument, stack the connectors. Each connector has two
screws on it to ensure that connections remain secure. The figure below shows a typical connection
diagram for a test system with multiple instruments.
To avoid possible mechanical damage, stack no more than three connectors on any one
instrument. To minimize interference caused by electromagnetic radiation, use only shielded
GPIB cables. Contact Keithley Instruments for shielded cables.
Figure 12: IEEE-488 connection example
Set the GPIB address

The default GPIB address is 18. You can set the address from 1 to 30 if it is unique in the system.
This address cannot conflict with an address that is assigned to another instrument or to the GPIB
controller.
GPIB controllers are usually set to 0 or 21. To be safe, do not configure any instrument to have an
address of 21.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-3

The instrument saves the address in nonvolatile memory. It does not change when you send a reset
command or when you turn the power off and on again.
To set the GPIB address from the front panel:

2. Select Communication.
3. Select the GPIB tab.
4. Set the GPIB Address.
5. Select OK.
You can also set the GPIB address using remote commands. Set the GPIB address with the SCPI
command :SYSTem:GPIB:ADDRess or the TSP command gpib.address.
LAN communications
You can communicate with the instrument using a local area network (LAN).
When you connect using a LAN, you can use a web browser to access the internal web page of the
instrument and change some of the instrument settings. For more information, see Using the web
interface (on page 3-12).
The 2450 is a version 1.5 LXI Device Specification 2016 instrument that supports TCP/IP and
complies with IEEE Std 802.3 (ethernet LAN). There is one LAN port (located on the rear panel of the
instrument) that supports full connectivity on a 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps network. The 2450 automatically
detects the speed.
The 2450 also supports Multicast DNS (mDNS) and DNS Service Discovery (DNS-SD), which are
useful on a LAN with no central administration.
Contact your network administrator to confirm your specific network requirements before setting up a
LAN connection.
If you have problems setting up the LAN, refer to LAN troubleshooting suggestions (on page 3-12).
3-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up LAN communications on the instrument

This section describes how to set up manual or automatic LAN communications on the instrument.
Check communication settings

Before setting up the LAN configuration, you can check the communication settings on the instrument
without making any changes.
To check communication settings on the instrument:

2. Under System, select Communication. The SYSTEM COMMUNICATIONS window opens.
3. Select LAN to see the settings for that interface.
Set up automatic LAN configuration

If you are connecting to a LAN that has a DHCP server or if you have a direct connection between the
instrument and a host computer, you can use automatic IP address selection.
If you select Auto, the instrument attempts to get an IP address from a DHCP server. If this fails, it
reverts to an IP address in the range of 169.254.1.0 through 169.254.254.255.
Both the host computer and the instrument should be set to use automatic LAN configuration.
Though it is possible to have one set to manual configuration, it is more complicated to set up.
To set up automatic IP address selection using the front panel:

2. Under System, select Communication.
3. Select the LAN tab.
4. For TCP/IP Mode, select Auto.
5. Select Apply Settings to save your settings.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-5

Set up manual LAN configuration

If necessary, you can set the IP address on the instrument manually.
You can also enable or disable the DNS settings and assign a host name to the DNS server.
Contact your corporate information technology (IT) department to secure a valid IP address for the
instrument when placing the instrument on a corporate network.
The instrument IP address has leading zeros, but the computer IP address cannot.
To set up manual IP address selection on the instrument:

4. For TCP/IP Mode, select Manual.
5. Enter the IP Address.
6. Enter the Gateway address.
7. Enter the Subnet mask.
8. Select Apply Settings to save your settings.
Set up LAN communications on the computer

This section describes how to set up the LAN communications on your computer.
Do not change your IP address without consulting your system administrator. If you enter an
incorrect IP address, it can prevent your computer from connecting to your corporate network or it
may cause interference with another networked computer.
Record all network configurations before modifying any existing network configuration information on
the network interface card. Once the network configuration settings are updated, the previous
information is lost. This may cause a problem reconnecting the host computer to a corporate network,
particularly if DHCP is disabled.
Be sure to return all settings to their original configuration before reconnecting the host computer to a
corporate network. Contact your system administrator for more information.
3-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Verify the LAN connection on the 2450

Make sure that your 2450 is connected to the network by confirming that your instrument was
assigned an IP address.
To verify the LAN connection:

A green LAN status indicator on the lower left of the LAN tab confirms that your instrument was
assigned an IP address.
In addition, the green LAN LED on the upper right of the front panel is on when your instrument is
connected to the network.
Use the LXI Discovery Tool

To find the IP address of the 2450, use the LXI Discovery Tool, a utility that is available from the
Resources tab of the LXI Consortium website (lxistandard.org/).
USB communications
To use the rear-panel USB port, you must have the Virtual Instrument Software Architecture (VISA)
layer on the host computer. See “How to install the Keithley I/O Layer” in the Model 2450 Reference
Manual for more information.
VISA contains a USB-class driver for the USB Test and Measurement Class (USBTMC) protocol that,
once installed, allows the Microsoft Windows operating system to recognize the instrument.
When you connect a USB device that implements the USBTMC or USBTMC-USB488 protocol to the
computer, the VISA driver automatically detects the device. Note that the VISA driver only
automatically recognizes USBTMC and USBTMC-USB488 devices. It does not recognize other USB
devices, such as printers, scanners, and storage devices.
In this section, “USB instruments” refers to devices that implement the USBTMC or
USBTMC-USB488 protocol.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-7

Connect a computer to the 2450 using USB

To communicate from a computer to the instrument you need a USB cable with a USB Type B
connector end and a USB type A connector end. You need a separate USB cable for each instrument
you plan to connect to the computer at the same time using the USB interface.
To connect an instrument to a computer using USB:

1. Connect the Type A end of the cable to the computer.
2. Connect the Type B end of the cable to the instrument.
3. Turn on the instrument power. When the computer detects the new USB connection, the Found
New Hardware Wizard starts.
4. If the “Can Windows connect to Windows Update to search for software?” dialog box opens,
select No, and then select Next.
5. On the “USB Test and Measurement device” dialog box, select Next, and then select Finish.
Communicate with the instrument

For the instrument to communicate with the USB device, you must use NI-VISATM. VISA requires a
resource string in the following format to connect to the correct USB instrument:
USB0::0x05e6::0x2450::[serial number]::INSTR
Where:
• 0x05e6: The Keithley vendor ID

• 0x2450: The instrument model number
• [serial number]: The serial number of the instrument (the serial number is also on the rear
panel)
• INSTR: Use the USBTMC protocol
The resource string is displayed on the bottom right of the System Communications screen. Select
Menu, then Communication to open the System Communications menu and select the USB tab.
You can also retrieve the resource string by running the Keithley Configuration Panel, which
automatically detects all instruments connected to the computer.
If you installed the Keithley I/O Layer, you can access the Keithley Configuration Panel through the
Microsoft® Windows® Start menu.
3-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

To use the Keithley Configuration Panel to determine the VISA resource string:
1. Click Start > Keithley Instruments > Keithley Configuration Panel. The Select Operation
dialog box is displayed.
Figure 13: Select Operation dialog box
2. Select Add.
3. Select Next. The Select Communication Bus dialog box is displayed.
Figure 14: Select Communication Bus dialog box
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-9

4. Select USB.
5. Click Next. The Select Instrument Driver dialog box is displayed.
Figure 15: Select Instrument Driver dialog box
6. Select Auto-detect Instrument Driver - Model.

7. Click Next. The Configure USB Instrument dialog box is displayed with the detected instrument
VISA resource string visible.
8. Click Next. The Name Virtual Instrument dialog box is displayed.
Figure 16: Name Virtual Instrument dialog box
3-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

9. In the Virtual Instrument Name box, enter a name that you want to use to refer to the instrument.
10. Select Finish.
11. Select Cancel to close the Wizard.
12. Save the configuration. From the Keithley Configuration Panel, select File > Save.
Verify the instrument through the Keithley Communicator:

1. Set the instrument to use the SCPI command set. Refer to How do I change the command set?
(on page 10-3) for instruction.
2. Click Start > Keithley Instruments > Keithley Communicator.
3. Select File > Open Instrument to open the instrument you just named.
Figure 17: Keithley Communicator Open an Instrument
4. Click OK.
5. Send a command to the instrument and see if it responds.
If you have a full version of NI-VISA on your system, you can run NI-MAX or the VISA Interactive
Control utility. See the National Instruments documentation for information.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-11

Using the web interface

The 2450 web interface allows you to make settings and control your instrument through a web page.
The web page includes:
• Instrument status.
• The instrument model, serial number, firmware revision, and the last LXI message.
• An ID button to help you locate the instrument.
• A virtual front panel and command interface that you can use to control the instrument.
• Ability to download data from specific reading buffers into a CSV file.
• Administrative options and LXI information.
The instrument web page resides in the firmware of the instrument. Changes you make through the
web interface are immediately made in the instrument.
Connect to the instrument web interface

When the LAN and instrument establish a connection, you can open the web page for the instrument.
To access the web interface:

1. Open a web browser on the host computer.
2. Enter the IP address of the instrument in the address box of the web browser. For example, if the
instrument IP address is 192.168.1.101, enter 192.168.1.101 in the browser address box.
3. Press Enter on the computer keyboard to open the instrument web page.
4. If prompted, enter a user name and password. The default is admin for both.
LAN troubleshooting suggestions

If you are unable to connect to the web interface of the instrument, check the following items:
• The network cable is in the LAN port on the rear panel of the instrument, not one of the
TSP-Link® ports.
• The network cable is in the correct port on the computer. The LAN port of a laptop may be
disabled when the laptop is in a docking station.
• The setup procedure used the configuration information for the correct ethernet card.
• The network card of the computer is enabled.
• The IP address of the instrument is compatible with the IP address on the computer.
• The subnet mask address of the instrument is the same as the subnet mask address of the
computer.
3-12 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

You can also try restarting the computer and the instrument.
To restart the instrument:

1. Turn the power to the instrument off, and then on.
2. Wait at least 60 seconds for the network configuration to be completed.
To set up LAN communications:

4. Verify the settings.
If the above actions do not correct the problem, contact your system administrator.
Web interface Home page

Figure 18: Model 2450 web interface Home page
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-13

The Home page of the instrument provides information about the instrument. It includes:
• The instrument model number, manufacturer, serial number, and firmware revision number.
• The TCP Raw Socket number and Telnet Port number.
• The last LXI message. The history link opens the LXI Home page.
• The ID button, which allows you to identify the instrument. Refer to Identify the instrument (on
page 3-14).
Identify the instrument

If you have a bank of instruments, you can select the ID button to determine which one you are
communicating with.
To identify the instrument:

1. On the Home page, select the ID button. The button turns green and the LAN status indicator on
the instrument blinks. On instruments with a front panel interface, the System Communications
menu also opens and the LXI LAN indicator on the LAN tab blinks.
2. Select the ID button again to return the button to its original color and return the LAN status
indicators to steady on.
Review events in the event log

Under LXI Home, the Log option opens the event log. The event log records all LXI events that the
instrument generates and receives. The log includes the following information:
• The EventID column, which shows the identifier of the event that generated the event message.
• The System Timestamp column, which displays the seconds and nanoseconds when the event
occurred.
• The Data column, which displays the text of the event message.
To clear the event log and update the information on the screen, select the Refresh button.
3-14 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Determine the command set to use

You can control the 2450 with command sets that are based on the SCPI or Test Script Processor
(TSP®) programming languages. You can change the command set that you use with the 2450. The
remote command sets that are available include:
• SCPI: An instrument-specific language built on the SCPI standard.

• TSP: A scripting programming language that contains instrument-specific control commands that
can be executed from a stand-alone instrument. You can use TSP to send individual commands
or use it to combine commands into scripts.
• SCPI 2400: An instrument-specific language that allows you to run code developed for earlier
Series 2400 instruments.
If you change the command set, reboot the instrument.
You cannot combine the command sets.
As delivered from Keithley Instruments, the 2450 is set to work with the SCPI command set.
If you choose the SCPI 2400 command set, you will not have access to some of the extended
ranges and other features that are now available using the SCPI command set. In addition, some
Series 2400 code will work differently in the 2450 than it did in the earlier instrument. See “2450 in a
Model 2400 application” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual for information about the differences.
To set the command set from the front panel:

2. Under System, select Settings.
3. Select the appropriate Command Set.
You are prompted to confirm the change to the command set and reboot.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 3-15

To verify which command set is selected from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG?
To change to the SCPI command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG SCPI
Reboot the instrument.
To change to the TSP command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG TSP
To change to the SCPI 2400 command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG SCPI2400
3-16 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 4
Making basic front-panel measurements
In this section:
Introduction .............................................................................. 4-1
Equipment required for this application .................................... 4-2
Device connections .................................................................. 4-2
Make front-panel measurements.............................................. 4-3
Introduction
You can use the 2450 to source voltage or current and make measurements from the front panel.
Make sure you select functions before you make changes to other instrument settings. The options
that you have for settings depend on the functions that are active when you make the changes. If
you make a change that is not compatible with the active functions, you may get unexpected results
or you may receive an event message. Also note that when you select a different function, the
instrument clears the buffer. The applications in this manual illustrate the order in which you should
perform operations for best results.
In this application, you make measurements on a 10 kΩ resistor by sourcing voltage and measuring
current. You can make similar measurements on any two-terminal device under test (DUT) if
appropriate source values are used.
Some of the methods you can use to set up the 2450 to make measurements from the front panel
include:
• Use Quicksets. Press the QUICKSET key to open a menu of preconfigured setups, including
voltmeter, ammeter, ohmmeter, and power supply setups. It also allows you to choose test
functions and adjust performance for better resolution or speed.
• Select source and measure functions. Press the FUNCTION key to select from a list of source
and measure functions.
• Use menu options. Press the MENU key to open a menu of options.
After selecting your source and measure functions, select buttons on the 2450 home screen and
Settings swipe screens to change the settings.
You will use a combination of these methods to set up the measurement for this application.
Section 4: Making basic front-panel measurements Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Equipment required for this application

Equipment required for this application:
• 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument

• Two insulated banana cables; you can use the set that is provided with the 2450, the Keithley
Instruments Model 8608 High-Performance Clip Lead Set
• One 10 kΩ resistor to test
Device connections
Turn the power to the instrument off before attaching connections to the 2450.
Connect the 2450 to the resistor in a 2-wire (local sense) configuration. In this configuration, the
device is connected between the FORCE HI and FORCE LO terminals.
The physical connections to the front panel are shown in the following figure.
Figure 19: Model 2450 2-wire front-panel connections
4-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 4: Making basic front-panel measurements
Make front-panel measurements

For this application, you will:
• Select the source and measure functions

• Select the source range
• Set the source value
• Set the source limit
• Select the measurement range
• Turn on the source output
• Observe the readings on the display
• Turn off the source output
How to make front-panel measurements

To make a measurement from the front panel:
1. Press the POWER switch on the front panel to turn on the instrument.
2. On the front panel, press the FUNCTION key.
3. Under Source Voltage and Measure, select Current.
4. Select the source range. On the home screen, under SOURCE V, select Range.
5. Select 20 V.
6. Select Source.
7. Enter 10 V and select OK.
8. Select Limit.
9. Enter 10 mA and select OK.
10. In the MEASURE area of the home screen, select Range.
11. Select Auto.
12. Turn on the output by pressing the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch. The OUTPUT indicator light
turns on.
13. Observe the readings on the display. For the 10 kΩ resistor, typical display values are:
1.00000 mA
+9.99700 V
14. When measurements are complete, turn the output off by pressing the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch.
The OUTPUT indicator light turns off.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 4-3

Section 5
Measuring low-resistance devices
In this section:
Introduction ............................................................................... 5-1
Equipment required .................................................................. 5-1
Set up remote communications ................................................ 5-2
Low-resistance measurements ................................................. 5-5
Introduction
This application example demonstrates how to use the 2450 to measure a low-resistance device.
You may need to make low-resistance measurements (<10 Ω) in a number of applications. Typical
applications include continuity testing of cables and connectors, substrate vias, and resistors.
Typically, you make these resistance measurements by forcing a current and measuring the resulting
voltage drop. The 2450 automatically calculates the resistance. The measured voltage is usually in
the mV range or less. Built-in features of the 2450 optimize low-resistance measurements, such as
remote sensing and offset compensation.
Equipment required
• One 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument
• For front-panel connections, use four insulated banana cables, such as the Keithley Instruments
Model 8608 High-Performance Clip Lead Set (one set included with the 2450; you will need
another set)
• For rear-panel connections, use four triaxial cables
• One low-resistance device to be tested; the application shown here uses a 20 mΩ resistor
Section 5: Measuring low-resistance devices Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Set up remote communications

You can run this application from the front panel or any of the supported communication interfaces for
the instrument (GPIB, USB, or ethernet).
The following figure shows the rear-panel connection locations for the remote communication
interfaces. For additional information about setting up remote communications, see Remote
communications interfaces (on page 3-1).
Figure 20: 2450 remote interface connections
Device connections
To provide the best measurement accuracy, use the four-wire (Kelvin) measurement method for this
test. This method eliminates the effects of lead resistance on the measurement accuracy. It is the
preferred method when measuring low resistances.
To use the 4-wire connection method:
• Connect one set of test leads to the FORCE LO and FORCE HI terminals; this setup forces a
current through the device under test.
• Connect the other set of test leads to the SENSE HI and SENSE LO terminals, which measure
the voltage drop across the device under test (DUT).
5-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 5: Measuring low-resistance devices
the output is on.
To prevent electric shock, test connections must be configured such that the user cannot
come in contact with conductors or any device under test (DUT) that is in contact with the
conductors. It is good practice to disconnect power before connecting DUTs. Safe installation
requires proper shields, barriers, and grounding to prevent contact with conductors.
There is no internal connection between protective earth (safety ground) and the LO
terminals of the 2450. Therefore, hazardous voltages (more than 30 VRMS) can appear on LO
terminals. This can occur when the instrument is operating in any mode. To prevent
hazardous voltage from appearing on the LO terminals, connect the LO terminal to protective
earth (safety ground) if your application allows it. You can connect the LO terminal to the
chassis ground terminal on the front panel or the chassis ground screw terminal on the rear
panel. Note that the front-panel terminals are isolated from the rear-panel terminals.
Therefore, if you are using the front-panel terminals, ground to the front-panel LO terminal. If
using the rear-panel terminals, ground to the rear panel LO terminal. Failure to follow these
guidelines can result in injury, death, or instrument damage.
The following figure shows the schematic for the application.
Figure 21: Sourcing current and measuring resistance using a 4-wire configuration
You can use either the front-panel or the rear-panel terminals for this application. The following
figures show the physical connections for the front and rear panels. Note that you must use either the
front-panel terminals or rear-panel terminals — you cannot mix connections.
The rear-panel connections are triaxial. The front-panel connections are safety banana jacks.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 5-3

When you connect the leads to the device under test (DUT), notice that the FORCE LO and SENSE
LO connections are attached to one of the DUT leads. Make the FORCE HI and SENSE HI
connections to the other lead. Connect the sense connections as close to the resistor under test as
possible. This 4-wire measurement eliminates the resistance of the test leads in the measurement.
The figure below shows the front-panel connections. You can make these connections with four
insulated banana cables, such as two sets of the Keithley Instruments Model 8608 High-Performance
Clip Lead Set.
Figure 22: Model 2450 front-panel connections for low-resistance measurements
The figure below shows the rear-panel connections. You can make these connections with four
triaxial cables.
Figure 23: Rear-panel connections for low-resistance measurements
5-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Low-resistance measurements
This application demonstrates how to use the 2450 to measure a low-resistance device. You can
measure from the front panel or over the remote interface using SCPI code or TSP code.
• Turn on the instrument.

• Select the source current and measure resistance function.
• Set the current source value.
• Select four-wire (remote sense) mode. This eliminates the effect of lead resistance on
measurement accuracy.
• Enable offset compensation. This reduces offset caused by thermoelectric voltages. For
information about offset compensation, see “What is offset compensation?” in the Model 2450
Reference Manual.
• Turn on the source output and start making measurements.
• Generate readings from the front panel or the remote interface.
• Turn the source output off.
Set up the measurement from the front panel

To set up the application from the front panel:
1. Make connections from the 2450 to the device under test, as described in Device connections (on
page 5-2).
2. Turn on the instrument.
3. Press the FUNCTION key.
4. Under Source Current and Measure, select Resistance. A warning message is displayed.
5. Select OK to clear the error message.
6. Press the HOME key.
7. In the SOURCE I area, select the button next to Source. Select a source value appropriate to
your device.
8. Press the MENU key. Under Measure, select Settings.
9. Set Sense to 4-Wire Sense.
10. Set Offset Compensation to On.
12. Press the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch to enable the output.
13. Select the Measurement Method indicator.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 5-5

14. Select Continuous Measurement to start making measurements. The instrument displays the
measurements in the MEASURE VOLTAGE area of the home screen.
Figure 24: Measurement Method indicator with Continuous Measurement selected
15. Press the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch to disable the output and stop making measurements.
View the measurements on the front-panel GRAPH swipe screen

You can view the resistance measurements as a function of time on the front-panel GRAPH swipe
screen. To access the GRAPH swipe screen, swipe the bottom part of the home screen to the right. A
graph similar to the one in the figure below is displayed.
Figure 25: GRAPH swipe screen
To see the graph on the full screen, touch the graph icon on the GRAPH swipe bar to open the Graph
screen.
5-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

View the buffer statistics on the front panel

You can view the measurement statistics on the 2450 front-panel STATISTICS swipe screen,
including:
• Peak-to-peak value
• Minimum, maximum, and average reading values
• Standard deviation
To view the statistics, from the home screen, swipe to the STATISTICS screen.
Figure 26: STATISTICS swipe screen
Set up the low-resistance application using SCPI commands

The following sequence of SCPI commands makes 100 low-resistance measurements by sourcing
current and measuring resistance. In this example, the source current magnitude and limit voltage are
set automatically. It uses remote commands to change the front-panel display to show the GRAPH
swipe screen. This allows you to view numeric data at the top of the screen and graphic data at the
bottom of the screen.
You may need to make changes so that this code will run in your programming environment.
Send the following commands for this example application:

Command Description
*RST
TRIG:LOAD "SimpleLoop", 100
 Reset the 2450.
SENS:FUNC "RES"  Configure Simple Loop trigger model
SENS:RES:RANG:AUTO ON template to make 100 readings.
SENS:RES:OCOM ON  Set to measure resistance.
SENS:RES:RSEN ON
DISP:SCR SWIPE_GRAPh
 Turn on auto range.
OUTP ON  Enable offset compensation.
INIT  Set to use 4-wire sense mode.
*WAI
OUTP OFF  Show the GRAPH swipe screen.
TRAC:DATA? 1, 100, "defbuffer1", READ, REL  Turn on the output.
 Initiate readings.
 Wait until finished.
 Turn off the output.
 Read the resistance and time values from
defbuffer1.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 5-7

Set up the low-resistance application using TSP commands

The following TSP code is designed to be run from Keithley Instruments Test Script Builder (TSB).
TSB is a software tool that is available from tek.com/keithley. You can install and use TSB to write
code and develop scripts for TSP-enabled instruments. Information on how to use TSB is in the online
help for TSB and in the “Introduction to TSP operation” section of the Model 2450 Reference Manual.
To use other programming environments, you may need to make changes to the example TSP code.
By default, the 2450 uses the SCPI command set. You must select the TSP command set before
sending TSP commands to the instrument.
To enable TSP commands:

3. Set the Command Set to TSP.
4. At the prompt to reboot, select Yes.
This sequence of TSP commands makes 100 low-resistance measurements by sourcing current and
measuring resistance. In this example, the source current magnitude and limit voltage are set
automatically. It uses remote commands to change the front-panel display to show the GRAPH swipe
screen. This allows you to view numeric data at the top of the screen and graphic data at the bottom
of the screen. After the code executes, the data is displayed in the Instrument Console of Test Script
Builder.

-- Reset the instrument to the default settings
reset()
-- Configure the Simple Loop trigger model template to make 100 readings.
trigger.model.load("SimpleLoop", 100)
-- Change the view on the front panel to the GRAPH swipe screen.
display.changescreen(display.SCREEN_GRAPH_SWIPE)
-- Set to measure resistance, use 4-wire sense,
-- and offset compensation.
smu.measure.func = smu.FUNC_RESISTANCE
smu.measure.sense = smu.SENSE_4WIRE
smu.measure.offsetcompensation = smu.ON
-- Turn on the output
-- Initiate trigger model and wait until finished.
trigger.model.initiate()
waitcomplete()
-- Turn off output
-- Read the resistance and time values from defbuffer1.
print("Resistance:\tTime:")
for i = 1, 100 do
print(string.format("%f\t%f", defbuffer1[i], defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[i]))
end
5-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 6
Leakage current and insulation resistance
In this section:
Introduction .............................................................................. 6-1
Measuring leakage current ....................................................... 6-4
Measuring insulation resistance ............................................. 6-10
Introduction
To measure the leakage current or insulation resistance of a device, you need to apply a fixed voltage
to the device and measure the resulting current. Depending on the device under test, the measured
current is typically very small, usually less than 10 nA.
This application consists of two examples that demonstrate:
• How to use the 2450 to perform leakage current measurements on a capacitor

• How to use the 2450 to measure insulation resistance between the two conductors of a coaxial
cable
The only difference between these two application examples is that when you measure leakage
current, the results are returned in units of amperes. When you measure insulation resistance, the
results are returned in units of ohms.
The leakage current application applies the voltage for a specified period because the device needs
time to charge. In some cases, the resulting current is measured the entire time the device is biased.
In other cases, only one reading is made at the end of the soak period.
The following topics describe how to do these applications from the front panel. They also show how
to do them using a remote interface with SCPI commands or Test Script Processor (TSP®)
commands.
Section 6: Leakage current and insulation resistance Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Equipment required
• Two triaxial cables
• One capacitor for the leakage current application
• One coaxial cable or other device for the insulation resistance application
• One ethernet, GPIB, or USB cable for the TSP and SCPI remote command examples

Device connections
Depending on the device under test (DUT), the current measurement is typically very small, usually
<10 nA. For any device, measuring leakage current and insulation resistance involves measuring very
small values. To get more accurate readings, connect the DUT to the 2450 rear panel with low-noise
triaxial cables.
Connect the DUT between the FORCE HI and FORCE LO terminals of the 2450.
6-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 6: Leakage current and insulation resistance
The following figure shows schematic diagrams. One shows measuring the leakage current of a
capacitor. The other shows measuring the insulator resistance between two conductors of a coaxial
cable.
Figure 28: Capacitor leakage and insulation resistance test connection schematics
The following figures show the rear-terminal connections to the device under test (DUT) for these
applications. If capacitor leakage measurements are noisy, you may need to use the high
capacitance mode or add a low leakage forward-biased diode in series with the capacitor.
Figure 29: Rear-panel connections for the leakage current test
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-3

Figure 30: Rear-panel connections insulation resistance test
Measuring leakage current

The following application demonstrates how to use the 2450 to measure the leakage current of a 1 nF
capacitor by sourcing a voltage and measuring the resulting current using the front panel or over the
remote interface. The remote interface examples show SCPI commands and TSP commands.
This application sets the 2450 to source 20 V and measure the resulting leakage current as a function
of time. The instrument takes current measurements for a specific period.
For this test, you will:
• Reset the instrument

• Set the instrument to read the rear terminals
• Select the source voltage function and measure current function
• Set the magnitude of the voltage source
• Turn on autoranging
• Set the measure delay
• Use the Duration Loop trigger model template to make readings for a specified time period
• Turn on the source output
• Make readings for a specified period
• Turn off the source output
6-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

When you use the 2450 to measure small current values, ensure that the device under test is
electrostatically shielded. If the capacitor rating is greater than 20 nF, enable the high capacitance
mode for best results.
For more information about making optimized capacitor leakage measurements and minimizing
noisy measurements, see the Keithley Instruments Low Level Measurements Handbook, available
on the Keithley Instruments website (tek.com/keithley).
Set up the leakage current application using the front panel

1. Use the test leads to make the connection from the capacitor to the rear panel of the 2450, as
described in Device connections (on page 6-2).
2. Reset the 2450.
a. Press the MENU key.
b. Under System, select Info/Manage.
c. Select System Reset, and then select OK.
3. Press the TERMINALS FRONT/REAR switch to set the instrument to use the rear-panel
terminals (R is displayed to the left of the switch).
7. Select Source (at the bottom of the screen).
8. Enter 20 V and select OK.
10. Under Trigger, select Templates.
11. Set Templates to DurationLoop.
12. Set the Duration to 30s. This is the soak time.
13. Set the Delay to 0.2s.
14. Press the HOME key to return to the home screen.
15. Press the TRIGGER key. You are prompted to change the measurement method.
16. Select Yes, then select Initiate Trigger Model to turn on the output and make measurements.
The instrument turns the output off when the measurements are complete.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-5

View the measurements on the front-panel graph

To view the leakage current measurements on the front-panel graph:
2. Under Views, select Graph.
3. Select the Scale tab.
4. Under Y-Axis, next to Scale Format, select Log.
5. Under X-Axis, next to Method, select Show All Readings.
6. Select the Graph tab to view the graph.
The following figure shows the front-panel graph for this application.
Figure 31: Viewing the leakage current measurement on the front panel
6-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up the leakage current application using SCPI commands

The following SCPI code performs a capacitor leakage measurement by sourcing 20 V and
measuring the resulting leakage current. The DurationLoop trigger model template applies the voltage
for 30 seconds and makes measurements at 200 ms intervals. After the duration time, the capacitor is
discharged at 0 V and the output is turned off.
Command Description
*RST
:SOUR:FUNC VOLT
 Reset the 2450.
:SOUR:VOLT 20  Set to source voltage.
:SOUR:VOLT:ILIMIT 0.01  Set the source voltage to 20 V.
:SENSE:FUNC "CURR"
:ROUT:TERM REAR  Set the current limit to 10 mA.
:CURR:RANG:AUTO ON  Set the instrument to measure current.
:SENSE:CURR:NPLC 1  Set to use rear-panel terminals.
:TRIG:LOAD "DurationLoop", 30, 0.2
 Set the current range to autorange.
:INIT  Set the number of power line cycles to 1.
*WAI
:TRAC:ACT? "defbuffer1"
 Load the DurationLoop trigger model to run
for 30 s with 200 ms delays.
:TRAC:DATA? 1, 30, "defbuffer1", READ, REL
:SOUR:VOLT 0  Start the trigger model.
:OUTP ON  Wait for the measurement to finish.
:SOUR:VOLT:DEL 2
:OUTP OFF  Query the number of readings in
defbuffer1 and return the readings and
time. 30 is the queried number of readings.
 Discharge the capacitor to 0 V.
 Turn on the output.
 Delay for two seconds to allow the capacitor
to discharge.
 Turn off the output.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-7

Set up the leakage current application using TSP commands

code and develop scripts for TSP-enabled instruments. Information about how to use TSB is in the
online help for TSB and in the “Introduction to TSP operation” section of the Model 2450 Reference
Manual.

The following TSP code performs a capacitor leakage measurement by sourcing 20 V and measuring
the resulting leakage current. The Duration Loop trigger model template applies the voltage for 60
seconds and makes measurements at 200 ms intervals. After the duration time, the capacitor is
discharged at 0 V and the output is turned off.
After the code is executed, the measurement results are displayed in the Instrument Console of Test
Script Builder. From the Instrument Console, you can copy the data into a spreadsheet for graphing.
6-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019


-- Reset the instrument, which also clears the buffer.
reset()
-- Set up the source function.
smu.source.func = smu.FUNC_DC_VOLTAGE
smu.source.ilimit.level = 10e-3
smu.source.level = 20
-- Set up measure function.
smu.measure.func = smu.FUNC_DC_CURRENT
smu.terminals = smu.TERMINALS_REAR
smu.measure.autorange = smu.ON
smu.measure.nplc = 1
-- Turn on the output and initiate readings.
trigger.model.load("DurationLoop", 60, 0.2)
-- Wait for the trigger model to complete.
waitcomplete()
-- Parse index and data into three columns.
print("Rdg #", "Time (s)", "Current (A)")
for i = 1, defbuffer1.n do
print(i, defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[i], defbuffer1[i])
end
-- Discharge the capacitor to 0 V and turn off the output.
delay(2)
The graph in the following figure shows the results of this application. Notice the exponential current
response of the capacitor as it charges up to 20 V over time.
Figure 32: Leakage current test results
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-9

Measuring insulation resistance

The following application demonstrates how to use the 2450 to measure insulator resistance. The
application shows how to use the front-panel interface, the remote interface using the SCPI command
set, and the remote interface using the Test Script Processor (TSP®) command set.
You typically make insulation resistance measurements between traces on a printed circuit board and
between conductors in cables and connectors.
This application sets the 2450 to source 20 V and makes 10 resistance readings with a 100 ms
interval time. Once the measurements are made, the output is turned off.
• Reset the instrument

• Set the instrument to read the rear terminals
• Select the source voltage function and measure resistance function
• Set the magnitude of the voltage source output
• Turn on autoranging
• Use the Simple Loop trigger model template to set the numbers of readings and interval time
• Make readings
Set up the insulation resistance application using the front panel

1. Connect the device under test (DUT) to the rear panel of the 2450, as described in Device
connections (on page 6-2).
2. Reset the 2450.
c. Select System Reset, and then select OK.
3. Press the TERMINALS FRONT/REAR switch to set the instrument to use the rear-panel
terminals (R is displayed to the left of the switch).
6. Under Source Voltage and Measure, select Resistance. An event message is displayed.
7. Select OK to clear the event message.
8. Select Source (at the bottom of the screen).
9. Enter 20 V (or other applicable test voltage) and select OK.
6-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019


11. Under Trigger, select Templates.
12. Set Templates to SimpleLoop.
13. Set Count to 10.
14. Set Delay to 0.1 seconds.
16. Press the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch to enable the output.
17. Press the TRIGGER key to begin making readings. The resistance measurements appear in the
measure area (top half) of the home screen.
18. Press the OUTPUT ON/OFF switch to turn off the output when you are done making
measurements.
Viewing the measurements on the front-panel graph

To view the insulation resistance measurements on the front-panel graph:
The following figure shows the front-panel graph for this application.
Figure 33: Insulation resistance graph
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-11

Set up the application using SCPI commands

The following SCPI commands make insulation resistance measurements by sourcing 20 V and
measuring the resistance. The Simple Loop trigger model template is used to make
10 measurements at 100 ms intervals.

Command Description
*RST
:ROUT:TERM REAR
 Reset the 2450.
:SOUR:FUNC VOLT  Select the rear-panel terminals for the
:SOUR:VOLT 20 measurement.
:SOUR:VOLT:ILIM 0.01  Set to source voltage.
:SENS:FUNC "CURR"
:SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO ON
 Output 20 V.
:SENSE:CURR:UNIT OHM  Set a 10 mA source limit.
:TRIG:LOAD "SimpleLoop", 10, 0.1  Set the instrument to measure current.
:OUTP ON
:INIT  Set the current range to autorange.
*WAI  Set the instrument to measure resistance.
:OUTP OFF
:TRAC:DATA? 1, 10, "defbuffer1", READ, REL
 Use the Simple Loop trigger model to make 10
measurements at 100 ms intervals.
 Turn the output on.
 Initiate readings.
 Wait for the measurement to finish.
 Turn the output off.
 Read the resistance and time values from
defbuffer1.
6-12 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up the application using TSP commands

online help for TSB and in the “Introduction to TSP operation” section of the Model 2450
Reference Manual.

The following TSP commands make insulation resistance measurements by sourcing 20 V and
measuring the resistance. The Simple Loop trigger model template is used to make
10 measurements at 100 ms intervals. After the code is executed, the measurement results are
displayed in the Instrument Console of Test Script Builder.

-- Reset the instrument
reset()
smu.source.ilimit.level = 0.1
-- Set up the measure function
smu.measure.unit = smu.UNIT_OHM
-- Turn on the source output and make readings.
trigger.model.load("SimpleLoop", 10, 0.1)
-- Wait for the measurements to complete.
waitcomplete()
-- Turn off the output.
-- Parse index and the data into three columns.
print("Rdg #", "Time (s)", "Resistance (Ohm)")
print(i, defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[i], defbuffer1[i])
end
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 6-13

The graph in the following figure demonstrates what the plotted results might look like.
Figure 34: Insulation resistance test results
6-14 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 7
Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs
In this section:
Introduction .............................................................................. 7-1
Set up external hardware triggers ............................................ 7-2
Remote control of FET testing using SCPI commands ............ 7-6
Remote control of FET testing using TSP commands ............ 7-10
Introduction
This example application demonstrates how to use two 2450 instruments to perform I-V
characterization of field effect transistors (FETs). The 2450 is a good choice for semiconductor device
testing because it can quickly and accurately source and measure both current and voltage.
Determining the I-V parameters of FETs helps you ensure that they function properly in their intended
applications, and that they meet specifications. There are many I-V tests that you can perform with
the 2450, including gate leakage, breakdown voltage, threshold voltage, transfer characteristics, and
drain current. The number of 2450 instruments required for testing depends on the number of FET
terminals that must be biased and measured.
This application shows you how to perform a drain family of curves (Vds-Id) on a three-terminal
MOSFET. The MOSFET is the most commonly used FET because it is the basis for digital integrated
circuits.
Equipment required
• Two 2450 SourceMeter® Instruments
• Four triaxial cables (Keithley model number 7078-TRX-10)
• A metal-shielded test fixture or probe station with female triaxial connectors
• A triaxial tee connector (Keithley model number 237-TRX-T)
Section 7: Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
• The cabling for external hardware triggers depends on the command set you are using:
 For SCPI commands, use a DB-9 male-to-male 9-pin cable to connect the digital I/O ports on
the back of the 2450 instruments to each other.
 For TSP commands, you need a TSP-Link crossover cable (one RJ-45 LAN crossover cable
is included with your 2450) to connect the TSP-Link ports on the rear panel of the 2450
instruments to each other.
• Cabling from the computer to the 2450 instruments depends on the command set you are using:
 For the SCPI command example, use two GPIB cables, two USB cables, or two ethernet
cables
 For the TSP command example, use one GPIB cable, one USB cable, or one ethernet cable
Instructions for setting up the two 2450 instruments for this application are in the following
paragraphs.

This application is configured to run remotely. You can run this application from any of the supported
communication interfaces for the instrument (GPIB, USB, or ethernet).
interfaces.
Set up external hardware triggers

To enable synchronization between the two 2450 instruments for stepping and sweeping voltages,
connect the external triggers of each instrument to the other. The cabling you use depends on which
2450 programming command set you choose to control the test.
7-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 7: Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs
Connections for the SCPI command set

If you are using the SCPI command set, connect a DB-9 male-to-male cable between the digital I/O
connectors on the back of each of the instruments, as shown in the figure below.
For more detailed information about the digital I/O connector pins, see “Digital I/O” in the Model 2450
Reference Manual.
Figure 36: GPIB and DB-9 cable connections for the SCPI programming example
The figure above also shows the communication cable connections if you are using the GPIB remote
communication interface. GPIB cable #1 connects the GPIB port on the computer (controller) to the
IEEE-488 connector on the rear panel of 2450 #1. GPIB cable #2 connects the IEEE-488 connectors
of the two 2450s.
Each 2450 must have a different GPIB address. You can set this up using the front panel. For details,
see Set the GPIB address (on page 3-3).
If you are using USB cables to connect the computer and 2450 instruments, each instrument must be
connected to the computer with a separate USB cable.
If you are using ethernet connections to connect the computer and 2450 instruments, the instruments
and computer must be connected using an ethernet switch or hub.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-3

Connections for the TSP command set

If you use the Test Script Processor (TSP®) command set for remote programming, use a RJ-45 LAN
crossover cable (one is included with the 2450) to connect the TSP-Link ports on the rear panels of
the 2450 instruments (see figure below). For more information about using TSP-Link, see “TSP-Link
System Expansion Interface” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual.
Figure 37: Connections for TSP-Link
For GPIB communication from the computer to the 2450 instruments, you only need one cable from
the GPIB interface to one of the 2450 IEEE-488 interfaces (2450 #1 in the figure above).
Set the TSP-Link node of 2450 #1 to node 1 and the TSP-Link node of 2450 #2 to node 2.
To set the 2450 TSP-Link nodes from the front panel:

2. Under System, select Communication. The SYSTEM COMMUNICATION window opens.
3. On the TSP-Link tab, set Node to the node number of this instrument and select OK.
4. Select Initialize.
Repeat these steps for each 2450 instrument in your TSP-Link network.
7-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Device connections
To perform a drain family of curves, configure both instruments to source voltage and measure current.
In this circuit, you connect the Force HI terminal of 2450 #2 to the gate of the MOSFET, and connect
the Force HI terminal of 2450 #1 to the drain.
You connect the source terminal of the MOSFET to the Force LO terminals of both 2450 instruments.
You need a third 2450 if you want to source and measure from all three terminals.
The following figure shows an I-V test configuration for a MOSFET using two 2450 instruments.
Figure 38: Three-terminal I-V test configuration for a MOSFET
The following figure shows the connections from the rear-panel terminals of both 2450 instruments to
the MOSFET.
Figure 39: Two Model 2450s configured to test a three-terminal MOSFET
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-5

For this application, connect four triaxial cables (Model 7078-TRX-10) from the 2450 rear-panel
female triaxial connectors to the MOSFET device. Mount the MOSFET device in a metal-shielded test
fixture with female triaxial connectors. Connect the Force LO terminals of both 2450 instruments to
the Source terminal of the MOSFET using a triaxial tee connector (Model 237-TRX-T).
Remote control of FET testing using SCPI commands

The two example sequences of SCPI commands for this application generate a drain family of curves
on a FET using two 2450 instruments. One of the examples uses the trigger model to generate the
family of curves. The other example uses a linear sweep. You may need to make modifications for
operation in your programming environment.
Set up the application using SCPI commands with the trigger

model
In this application, the gate voltage steps from 2 V to 5 V in 1 V steps, the drain voltage sweeps from
0 V to 5 V in 51 steps, and the drain current is measured. The current and voltage measurements are
stored in defbuffer1. The 2450 trigger model synchronizes the two 2450 instruments.
You send commands to either the sweeper on the drain (SMU 1) or the stepper on the gate (SMU 2).
In the table, commands for the sweeper have a light gray background. Commands for the stepper
have a darker gray background. The light-brown shaded code represents pseudocode that will vary
depending on the programming environment you use. Each bulleted item in the Description column
describes a single line of code in the Commands column.
SMU 1, Commands Description

SMU 2, or
pseudocode
SMU 1 *RST
:SENS:FUNC "CURR"
 Reset the instrument.
:SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO ON  Set to measure current.
:ROUT:TERM REAR  Set to measure with autorange
:SOUR:FUNC VOLT enabled.
:SOUR:VOLT:RANG 20
:SOUR:CONF:LIST:CRE "stepVals"
 Set to rear terminals.
:DIG:LINE1:MODE TRIG, OUT  Set to source voltage.
:DIG:LINE2:MODE TRIG, IN  Set to 20 V source range.
:TRIG:DIG1:OUT:STIM NOT1
:TRIG:DIG2:IN:CLE  Create a source configuration list
:TRIG:DIG2:IN:EDGE RIS called stepVals.
 Set digital line 1 to trigger out.
 Set digital line 2 to trigger in.
 Set the stimulus for digital line 1 to
the notify1 event.
 Clear digital line 2.
 Set to detect rising edge on line 2.
7-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019


SMU 2, or
pseudocode
Pseudocode for i = 2 to 5 do:  Set up a for loop from 2 to 5.

SMU 1 :SOUR:VOLT i  Set the voltage level to the iteration
:SOUR:CONF:LIST:STORE "stepVals" number.
 Store the source configuration to
stepVals.
Pseudocode end for  End the for loop.
SMU 1 :TRIG:BLOC:CONF:RECALL 1, "stepVals"  Create trigger model block 1 to load
:TRIG:BLOC:SOUR:STAT 2, ON stepVals at the first index.
:TRIG:BLOC:MDIG 3
:TRIG:BLOC:NOT 4, 1
 Create block 2 to turn the output on.
:TRIG:BLOC:WAIT 5, DIG2  Create block 3 to make a
:TRIG:BLOC:CONF:NEXT 6, "stepVals" measurement.
:TRIG:BLOC:BRAN:COUN 7, 4, 3  Create block 4 to generate the
:TRIG:BLOC:SOUR:STAT 8, OFF notify1 event.
 Create block 5 to wait on digital line
2.
 Create block 6 to load the next
index of stepVals.
 Create block 7 to branch to block 3,
3 times.
 Create block 8 to turn the output off.
SMU 2 *RST
:SENS:FUNC "CURR"
:SOUR:VOLT:RANG 20  Set to rear terminals.
:SOUR:VOLT:ILIM 1
 Set to source voltage.
:SOUR:CONF:LIST:CRE "sweepVals"
:DIG:LINE2:MODE TRIG, OUT  Set to 20 V source range.
:DIG:LINE1:MODE TRIG, IN  Set the source limit to 1 A.
:TRIG:DIG2:OUT:STIM NOT2  Create the source configuration list
:TRIG:DIG1:IN:CLE sweepVals.
:TRIG:DIG1:IN:EDGE RIS
 Set digital line 2 to trigger out.
 Set digital line 1 to trigger in.
 Set the stimulus for digital line 2 to
the notify2 event.
 Clear digital line 1.
 Detect for a rising edge on line 1.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-7


SMU 2, or
pseudocode
Pseudocode for i = 0, 5, 0.1 do:  Set up a for loop from 0 to 5 in 0.1

steps (inclusive).
SMU 2 :SOUR:VOLT i  Set the voltage level to the iteration
:SOUR:CONF:LIST:STORE "sweepVals" number.
 Store the source configuration to
sweepVals.
SMU 2 :TRIG:BLOC:CONF:RECALL 1, "sweepVals"  Create a block to load sweepVals
:TRIG:BLOC:SOUR:STAT 2, ON at the first index.
:TRIG:BLOC:WAIT 3, DIG1
:TRIG:BLOC:DEL:CONS 4, 0.01
 Create a block to turn the output on.
:TRIG:BLOC:MDIG 5  Create a block to wait on digital line
:TRIG:BLOC:CONF:NEXT 6, "sweepVals" 3.
:TRIG:BLOC:BRAN:COUN 7, 51, 4  Create a block to delay for 0.01
:TRIG:BLOC:NOT 8, 2 seconds.
:TRIG:BLOC:BRAN:COUN 9, 4, 3  Create a block to make a
:TRIG:BLOC:SOUR:STAT 10, OFF measurement.
 Create a block to load the next
index of sweepVals.
 Create a block to branch to block 4,
50 times.
 Create a block to generate the
notify2 event.
 Create a block to branch to block 3,
three times.
 Create a block to turn the output off.
SMU 1 :INIT  Initiate the trigger model.
*WAI
 Wait for the model to complete.
SMU 2 :INIT  Initiate the trigger model.
*WAI
 Wait for the model to complete.
Pseudocode vds = []
ids = []
 Create an empty array to hold
measured voltage values.
for i = 2, 5 do:
measured current values.
 Set up a for loop from 2 to 5
(including 5).
Pseudocode
for SMU2
vds[i-1] = TRAC:DATA? 1 +
51*(i-2), 51*(i-1),
 Save the sourced and measured
values to the arrays vds and ids,
"defbuffer1", SOUR
respectively. The readings from
ids[i-1] = TRAC:DATA? 1 +
each step are saved at each index
51*(i-2), 51*(i-1),
in the array.
"defbuffer1", READ
7-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up the application using SCPI commands in a linear sweep

In this example, the gate voltage steps from 2 V to 6 V in 1 V steps, the drain voltage sweeps from
0 V to 5 V in 51 steps, and the drain current is measured. The application retrieves each of 51
readings and source values from defbuffer1 and saves them in the arrays vds and ids,
respectively.
You send commands to either the sweeper (SMU 2) or the stepper (SMU 1). In the table, the
commands for the sweeper are shown with a light gray background. The commands for the stepper
are shown with a darker gray background. The light-brown shaded code represents pseudocode that
will vary depending on the programming environment you use. Each bulleted item in the Description
column describes a single line of code in the Commands column.
Send the following commands for this application:

SMU 2, or
pseudocode
SMU 1 *RST
:SENS:FUNC "CURR"
:SOUR:VOLT:RANG 20
 Set to use rear terminals.
 Set to source voltage.
 Set to 20 V source range.
SMU 2 *RST
:SENS:FUNC "CURR"
:SOUR:VOLT:RANG 20
:SOUR:VOLT:ILIM 1
 Set to use the rear terminals.
:SOUR:SWE:VOLT:LIN 0, 5, 51, 0.01  Set to source voltage.
 Set to the 20 V source range.
 Set the source limit to 1 A.
 Set up a linear sweep from 0 V to 5 V
in 51 steps, with a delay of 10 ms.
SMU 1 :OUTP ON
 Turn on the output.
Pseudocode vds = []
ids = []
measured voltage values.
for i = 2, 5 do:
measured current values.
 Set up a for loop from 2 to 5
(inclusive).
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-9


SMU 2, or
pseudocode
SMU 1 :SOUR:VOLT i
 Set the source level to the iteration
number of the loop.
Pseudocode delay(0.5)
 Delay for 500 ms to allow for settling.
SMU 2 :INIT
*WAI
 Trigger the sweep to start.
 Wait for the operations to complete.
Pseudocode Read output queue
 Wait for sweep to complete.
Pseudocode
for SMU 2
vds[i-1]=TRAC:DATA?
"defbuffer1",
1, 51,
SOUR
 Receive each of 51 readings and
source values from the buffer and
ids[i-1]=TRAC:DATA? 1, 51, save them in the arrays vds and ids,
"defbuffer1", READ
respectively. The arrays start at index
one. Each point in the arrays contains
a list of values for each gate voltage.
SMU 1 :OUTP OFF
 Turn the output off. NOTE: All of the
source and measure values can be
returned from the arrays vds and
ids.
Remote control of FET testing using TSP commands

The two example sequences of Test Script Processor (TSP®) commands for this application generate
a drain family of curves on a FET using two 2450 instruments. One of the examples uses the trigger
model to generate the family of curves. The other example uses a linear sweep. You may need to
make modifications for operation in your programming environment.
Reference Manual.

7-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up the application using TSP commands with the trigger

model
-- Reset the instruments and the TSP-Link connection, and clear the buffers.
tsplink.initialize()
-- If the tsplink state is not online, print an error message and quit
state = tsplink.state
if state ~= "online" then
print("Error:\n-Check that all SMUs have a different node number")
print("-Check that all SMUs are connected correctly\n")
return
end
reset()
-- ######################## Model 2450 #1 (gate) setup ################
steppoints = 4
smu.source.configlist.create("stepVals")
smu.source.autorange = smu.ON
-- Set up the measure function.
smu.measure.terminals = smu.TERMINALS_REAR
-- Set up TSP-Link triggering.
tsplink.line[1].reset()
tsplink.line[1].mode = tsplink.MODE_SYNCHRONOUS_MASTER
tsplink.line[2].mode = tsplink.MODE_SYNCHRONOUS_ACCEPTOR
trigger.tsplinkout[1].stimulus = trigger.EVENT_NOTIFY1
trigger.tsplinkin[2].clear()
trigger.tsplinkin[2].edge = trigger.EDGE_RISING
-- Populate the stepVals source config list, with source levels 2 V to 5 V
for i = 2, 5 do
smu.source.level = i
smu.source.configlist.store("stepVals")
end
-- Set up the trigger model.
trigger.model.setblock(1, trigger.BLOCK_CONFIG_RECALL, "stepVals")
trigger.model.setblock(2, trigger.BLOCK_SOURCE_OUTPUT, smu.ON)
trigger.model.setblock(3, trigger.BLOCK_MEASURE_DIGITIZE)
trigger.model.setblock(4, trigger.BLOCK_NOTIFY, trigger.EVENT_NOTIFY1)
trigger.model.setblock(5, trigger.BLOCK_WAIT, trigger.EVENT_TSPLINK2)
trigger.model.setblock(6, trigger.BLOCK_CONFIG_NEXT, "stepVals")
trigger.model.setblock(7, trigger.BLOCK_BRANCH_COUNTER, steppoints, 3)
trigger.model.setblock(8, trigger.BLOCK_SOURCE_OUTPUT, smu.OFF)
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-11

-- ########################## Model 2450 #2 (drain) setup ################

sweeppoints = 51
node[2].smu.source.configlist.create("sweepVals")
node[2].smu.source.func = node[2].smu.FUNC_DC_VOLTAGE
node[2].smu.source.autorange = node[2].smu.ON
node[2].smu.source.ilimit.level = 100e-3
node[2].smu.measure.func = node[2].smu.FUNC_DC_CURRENT
node[2].smu.measure.autorange = node[2].smu.OFF
node[2].smu.measure.terminals = node[2].smu.TERMINALS_REAR
node[2].smu.measure.range = 100e-3
-- Set up TSP-Link triggering.
node[2].tsplink.line[2].mode = node[2].tsplink.MODE_SYNCHRONOUS_MASTER
node[2].tsplink.line[1].mode = node[2].tsplink.MODE_SYNCHRONOUS_ACCEPTOR
node[2].trigger.tsplinkout[2].stimulus = node[2].trigger.EVENT_NOTIFY2
node[2].trigger.tsplinkin[1].clear()
node[2].trigger.tsplinkin[1].edge = node[2].trigger.EDGE_RISING
-- Populate the sweepVals source config list, with source levels
-- 0 V to 5 V in 100 mV steps
for i = 0, 5, 0.1 do
node[2].smu.source.level = i
node[2].smu.source.configlist.store("sweepVals")
end
-- Set up the trigger model.
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(1, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_CONFIG_RECALL, "sweepVals")
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(2, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_SOURCE_OUTPUT,
node[2].smu.ON)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(3, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_WAIT,
node[2].trigger.EVENT_TSPLINK1)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(4, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_DELAY_CONSTANT, 0.01)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(5, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_MEASURE_DIGITIZE)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(6, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_CONFIG_NEXT, "sweepVals")
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(7, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_BRANCH_COUNTER, sweeppoints,
4)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(8, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_NOTIFY,
node[2].trigger.EVENT_NOTIFY2)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(9, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_BRANCH_COUNTER, steppoints,
3)
node[2].trigger.model.setblock(10, node[2].trigger.BLOCK_SOURCE_OUTPUT,
node[2].smu.OFF)
-- Start the trigger model for both SMUs and wait until it is complete
node[2].trigger.model.initiate()
waitcomplete()
7-12 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

-- Print the formatted readings.

if defbuffer1.n == 0 then
print("\nNo readings in buffer\n")
else
for k = 1, sweeppoints do
print(string.format("%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f",
node[2].defbuffer1.sourcevalues[k], node[2].defbuffer1[k],
node[2].defbuffer1.sourcevalues[k+sweeppoints],
node[2].defbuffer1[k+sweeppoints],
node[2].defbuffer1.sourcevalues[k+sweeppoints*2],
node[2].defbuffer1[k+sweeppoints*2],
node[2].defbuffer1.sourcevalues[k+sweeppoints*3],
node[2].defbuffer1[k+sweeppoints*3]))
end
end
Set up the application using TSP commands in a linear sweep

In this example, the code steps the gate-source voltage, sweeps the drain-source voltage at each
step, and measures the drain-source current. The parameters for this example are:
• SMU-1 (drain) is the sweeper and master node (set to node 1)

 Starting step voltage: 0 V
 Stopping step voltage: 5 V
 Number of steps: 51
• SMU-2 (gate) is the stepper and subordinate node 2

 Starting step voltage: 2 V
 Stopping step voltage: 5 V
 Number of steps: 4

-- Reset the instruments and the TSP-Link connection, and clear the buffers.
tsplink.initialize()
-- If the TSP-Link state is not online, print an error message and quit.
state = tsplink.state
if state ~= "online" then
print("Error:\n-Check that all SMUs have a different node number")
print("-Check that all SMUs are connected correctly\n")
return
end
reset()
-- Set the number of sweep points (also used for printing).
num = 51
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-13

-- ######################## 2450 #1 (drain) setup ################

smu.source.ilimit.level = 300e-3
smu.source.autorange = smu.ON
-- Set up a linear sweep.
smu.source.sweeplinear("MOSFET", 0, 5, num, 0.001)
-- ########################## 2450 #2 (gate) setup ################
node[2].smu.source.func = node[2].smu.FUNC_DC_VOLTAGE
node[2].smu.source.autorange = node[2].smu.ON
node[2].smu.source.ilimit.level = 100e-3
node[2].smu.measure.func = node[2].smu.FUNC_DC_CURRENT
node[2].smu.measure.autorange = node[2].smu.ON
node[2].smu.terminals = node[2].smu.TERMINALS_REAR
-- Turn the stepper output on.
node[2].smu.source.output = node[2].smu.ON
readings = {}
sourcevalues = {}
iteration = 0
steppoints = 4
-- Set the stepper V level, delay, start sweep, and wait to complete.
for i = 2, 5 do
node[2].smu.source.level = i
delay(0.01)
waitcomplete()
for j = 1, num do
readings[j+iteration*num] = defbuffer1[j]
sourcevalues[j+iteration*num] = defbuffer1.sourcevalues[j]
end
iteration = iteration+1
end
-- Turn the stepper output off.
node[2].smu.source.output = node[2].smu.OFF
-- Print the formatted readings.
if defbuffer1.n == 0 then
print("\nNo readings in buffer\n")
else
for k = 1, num do
print(string.format("%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f\t\t%f\t%f", sourcevalues[k],
readings[k], sourcevalues[k+num], readings[k+num], sourcevalues[k+num*2],
readings[k+num*2], sourcevalues[k+num*3], readings[k+num*3]))
end
end
7-14 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

The resulting drain current and drain voltage are returned in tabular form in the Instrument Console of
Test Script Builder. You can copy the data into a spreadsheet, such as Microsoft® Excel®, for
graphing and further analysis.
The following figure shows a graph of the family of curves generated in this example.
Figure 40: MOSFET drain family of curves generated with two 2450s
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 7-15

Section 8
Rechargeable battery measurements
In this section:
Introduction ............................................................................... 8-1
Automated battery charge and discharge cycle testing ............ 8-6
Introduction
This example application demonstrates how to use a single 2450 to perform automated battery
discharge and charge cycle testing.
To prevent personal injury or damage to the 2450, do not attempt to charge nonrechargeable
batteries. Some of the batteries that can be charged with a 2450 are nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd),
nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium ion (Li-ion), rechargeable alkaline, and lead acid. If you
are working with a battery type that is not listed here, please contact your local Keithley
office, sales partner, or distributor, or call one of our Applications Engineers to get technical
assistance.
Always follow the battery manufacturer's requirements for charging or discharging batteries
using a 2450. Failure to properly charge or discharge batteries may cause them to leak or
explode, resulting in personal injury and property damage. Overvoltage and current
protection should be provided in the charge circuit, external to the instrument, when charging
batteries without built-in protection.
Do not charge or discharge batteries that exceed 21 V at 1.05 A or 210 V at 105 mA.
For both the charging and discharging cycles, you configure the 2450 to source voltage and measure
current. The following figures show simplified schematics for the charge and discharge cycles.
Section 8: Rechargeable battery measurements Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
Figure 41: Battery charge-discharge cycle schematics
1 2450 is in source mode (VS > VB). Instrument functions as a power

supply; charge current (i) is positive.
2 2450 is in sink mode (Vs < VB). Instrument functions as an electronic

load; discharge current (i) is negative.
Charging
A battery is usually charged using a constant current. To do this, use a 2450 as a voltage source set
to the voltage rating of the battery, with the target charging current set as the current limit. At the start
of the test, the battery voltage is less than the voltage output setting of the 2450. As a result, this
voltage difference drives a current that is immediately limited to the user-defined current limit. When
in current limit, the 2450 acts as a constant current source until it reaches the programmed voltage
level. As the battery becomes fully charged, the current decreases until it reaches zero or near zero.
To prevent safety hazards or damage to the battery, be careful not to overcharge the battery.
Discharging
When discharging a battery, the 2450 operates as a sink because it is dissipating power instead of
sourcing it. The voltage source of the 2450 is set to a lower level than the battery voltage. The current
limit sets the discharge rate. When the output is enabled, the current from the battery flows into the HI
terminal of the 2450. As a result, the current readings are negative. The discharge current should stay
constant until the battery voltage decreases to the voltage source setting of the 2450.
8-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 8: Rechargeable battery measurements
If you are using the current source to charge or discharge batteries, the following precautions
must be observed. Failure to observe these precautions could result in instrument damage
that is not covered by the warranty.
Make sure the external voltage never exceeds the voltage limit setting of the current source.
This will cause excessive current to be drawn from the external battery or source.
Be sure to set the output-off state of the current source for high impedance. This setting
opens the output relay when the output is turned off. With the normal output-off state
selected, turning the output off sets the voltage limit to zero. This 0 V source limit condition
will cause excessive current to be drawn from the external battery or source.
Carefully consider and configure the output-off state, source, and limits before connecting
the 2450 to a device that can deliver energy. Devices that can deliver energy include voltage
sources, batteries, capacitors, and solar cells. Configure instrument settings before making
connections to the device. Failure to consider the output-off state, source, and limits may
result in damage to the instrument or to the device under test (DUT).
When using the current source as a sink, always set the voltage limit and configure
overvoltage protection (OVP) to levels that are higher than the external voltage level. Failure
to do so could result in excessive current flow into the 2450 (> 105 mA) and incorrect
measurements. When the instrument is operating in limit, be aware that the instrument
always tries to maintain the limit.
Equipment required
another set)
• One GPIB, USB, or ethernet cable to connect the 2450 to a computer
• One rechargeable 2300 mAh AA (1.2 V) battery to test
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 8-3

Device connections
To set up the test, connect the 2450 to the battery as shown in the following figure. Make a 4-wire
(remote sense) connection from the instrument terminals to the battery to eliminate the effects of the
lead resistance. This allows you to measure the battery voltage as closely as possible to the terminals
of the instrument.
Figure 42: Schematic for the battery charge and discharge cycle test
There is no internal connection between protective earth (safety ground) and the LO
terminals of the 2450. Therefore, hazardous voltages (more than 30 VRMS) can appear on LO
terminals. This can occur when the instrument is operating in any mode. To prevent
hazardous voltage from appearing on the LO terminals, connect the LO terminal to protective
earth (safety ground) if your application allows it. You can connect the LO terminal to the
chassis ground terminal on the front panel or the chassis ground screw terminal on the rear
panel. Note that the front-panel terminals are isolated from the rear-panel terminals.
Therefore, if you are using the front-panel terminals, ground to the front-panel LO terminal. If
using the rear-panel terminals, ground to the rear panel LO terminal. Failure to follow these
guidelines can result in injury, death, or instrument damage.
You can make test connections to the 2450 from the rear or front panel of the instrument.
Connect the FORCE HI and SENSE HI output terminals of the 2450 to the positive (+) terminal of the
battery. Connect the SENSE LO and FORCE LO outputs to the negative (−) terminal of the battery.
8-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Make sure that when the output of the 2450 is turned off, it is set to the high-impedance (High-Z)
output-off state. When the high-impedance output-off state is selected, the output relay opens when
the output is turned off. This prevents the battery from draining when the output is off.
To set the output-off state to high impedance:

2. In the Source column, select Settings.
3. Set Output Off to High Impedance.
Clip Lead Set.
Figure 43: Front-panel connections for the battery discharge-charge application
triaxial cables.
Figure 44: Rear-panel connections for the battery discharge-charge application
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 8-5

Automated battery charge and discharge cycle testing

Battery charge and discharge cycles often take several hours, so automating the test is important.
This example demonstrates how to use the 2450 to perform an automated battery discharge test
using SCPI commands or TSP commands.
• Reset the instrument.

• Set the measurement to a 4-wire configuration.
• Set the instrument to source voltage and measure current.
• Select the high impedance output-off mode, which opens the output relay when the 2450 output
is turned off. Select this mode before connecting the battery to the output. This prevents the
battery from draining when it is connected to the instrument with the output off.
• Set the current limit to the current level at which the battery is to be charged or discharged. This
is the load current of the test. Even though the 2450 is sourcing voltage, it operates in constant
current mode because it is in current limit until it reaches the desired voltage.
• Turn on source readback to enable the 2450 to measure the battery voltage while it either
charges or discharges.
• Read the load current, source readback voltage, and the relative timestamp.
• Monitor the voltage until the battery voltage reaches the specified voltage level and stop the test.
To charge the battery, program the 2450 to output a voltage that is equivalent to the voltage rating of
the battery. For example, to charge a 10 V battery, set the 2450 to source 10 V. As the battery fully
charges, current decreases until it reaches zero or near zero (battery charged).
To discharge the battery, program the 2450 to output a voltage to a lower level than the battery
voltage and set the output-off state to high impedance. In this configuration, the 2450 operates as a
sink to discharge the battery. Current from the battery flows into the SENSE HI terminal of the 2450,
which results in negative current measurements. As the battery discharges, the current stays
constant.
8-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019


This application is configured to run remotely. You can run this application from any of the supported
communication interfaces for the instrument (GPIB, USB, or ethernet).
interfaces.
Set up the battery application using SCPI commands

The SCPI code in this example sets the 2450 to the source voltage function and measure current
function. The voltage source is set to 1 V and the source limit is set to 460 mA. The voltage, current,
and relative timestamp values are returned. Measurements are made until the voltage reaches the set
level.
You may need to change the current and voltage levels so that they are appropriate for the battery
you are testing.
In the following example code, notice that some of the code is labeled as “Pseudocode.” The code
you use for the pseudocode lines will vary based on the programming environment you use.
Send the following commands for this example application.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 8-7

SMU Commands Description

command or
pseudocode
SMU
command
*RST
OUTP:SMOD HIMP
SENS:RES:RSEN ON  Turn on high-impedance output mode.
SOUR:FUNC VOLT  Set to 4-wire sense mode.
SOUR:VOLT 1
SOUR:VOLT:READ:BACK ON  Set to source voltage.
SOUR:VOLT:RANG 2  Set source level to 1 V.
SOUR:VOLT:ILIM 460e-3  Turn on source readback.
SENS:FUNC "CURR"
SENS:CURR:RANG 1  Set source range to 2 V.
OUTP ON  Set the source limit to 460 mA.
 Set to measure current.
 Set current range to 1 A.
 Turn the output on.
Pseudocode iteration = 1
voltLimit = 1.0
 Create a variable called iteration
and initialize to 1.
current = []
voltage = []  Create a variable called voltLimit
seconds = [] and initialize to 1.
hours = []  Create an empty array for current
while true do: measurements.
 Create an empty array for voltage
measurements.
 Create an empty array for the time
values.
 Start a while loop.
SMU current[iteration] = READ?
"defbuffer1"
 Append the current reading to the
command array current.
voltage[iteration] = TRAC:DATA?
iteration, iteration,  Append the voltage reading to the
"defbuffer1", SOUR array voltage.
seconds[iteration] = TRAC:DATA?
iteration, iteration,
 Append the time reading to the array
seconds.
"defbuffer1", REL
Pseudocode hours[iteration] =
seconds[iteration]/3600
 Calculate the hours taken at each
iteration.
print(voltage[iteration],
current[iteration],  Print the measured values.
hours[iteration])
if voltage[iteration] <=
 Compare the voltage reading from this
iteration to the voltage limit. If the
voltLimit then: measured value is less than or equal
break to the limit, break out of the loop.
end if
iteration = iteration + 1  End the if statement.
delay(10)  Increment the iteration count by 1.
end while
 Delay for 10 seconds.
 End the while loop.
SMU
command
OUTP OFF
 Turn the output off.
8-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Set up the battery application using TSP commands

Reference Manual.

The TSP code in this example sets the 2450 to the source voltage function and measure current
function. The voltage source is set to 1 V and the source limit is set to 460 mA. The voltage, current,
and relative timestamp values are returned. Measurements are made until the voltage reaches the set
level. During the test, these measurements are shown on the USER swipe screen at the bottom of the
screen. See Battery application test results (on page 8-12) for an example.
You may need to change the current and voltage levels so that they are appropriate for the battery
you are testing.
This application refers to the discharge current rate of 1C. Discharge current can be expressed as a
C-rate to normalize against different battery capacities. A C-rate is a measure of the rate at which a
battery is discharged relative to its maximum capacity. 1C means that the discharge current
discharges the entire battery in 1 hour.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 8-9

The TSP code in this example also saves all of the current, voltage, and time readings to a USB flash
drive connected to the 2450 front panel.
Before connecting the battery to the output terminals, complete the following tasks to prepare the
2450 for the test.
Reset the instrument:

2. Under System, select Info/Manage.
3. Select System Reset.
4. Select OK.
Set the output-off state to High Impedance:

2. Under Source, select Settings.
3. Set Output Off to High Impedance.
The High Impedance output-off state opens the output relay when the output is turned off, which
prevents the battery from draining.
Send the following TSP commands for this example application:

-- This code discharges a 2500 mAH 1.2 V battery to 0.9 V with a
-- discharge current of 2.5A (1C).
-- Before using this code, reset the instrument from the front panel
-- and set the output-off state of the 2450 to High Impedance
-- (High Z). Also, insert a USB flash drive in the front-panel USB
-- port to save your readings.
-- Clear the buffer.

defbuffer1.clear()
-- Measurement settings.
smu.measure.range = 2.5
-- Source settings.
smu.source.offmode = smu.OFFMODE_HIGHZ
smu.source.level = 0.9
smu.source.range = 0.9
smu.source.readback = smu.ON
smu.source.ilimit.level = 2.5
-- Set the voltage limit for the battery to stop discharging.
-- Set the variable for the number of iterations.
voltLimit = 0.9001
iteration = 1
-- Turn on the source output.
8-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

-- Change the display to the USER swipe screen.

display.changescreen(display.SCREEN_USER_SWIPE)
-- Keep making readings in the while loop until the measured voltage
-- is equal to the voltage limit.
while true do
-- Make a reading and get the current, voltage, and relative timestamp.
curr = smu.measure.read(defbuffer1)
volt = defbuffer1.sourcevalues[iteration]
time = defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[iteration]
hours = time/3600
-- Compare the measured voltage to the voltage limit.
-- Exit the loop if it has reached the limit.
if volt <= voltLimit then
break
end
-- Print the number of completed cycles, the voltage, and the time for the
-- iteration. Display the information on the front panel.
print("Completed Cycles: ", iteration, "Voltage: ", volt, "Time: ", time)
display.settext(display.TEXT1, string.format("Voltage = %.4fV", volt))
display.settext(display.TEXT2, string.format("Current = %.2fA, Time = %.2fHrs",
curr, hours))
-- Increment the number of iterations and wait 10 seconds.
iteration = iteration + 1
delay(10)
end
-- Turn the output off when the voltage limit is reached.
-- Save the measurements to the USB flash drive.
FileNumber = file.open("/usb1/TestData.csv", file.MODE_WRITE)
file.write(FileNumber,"Current,Voltage,Seconds\n")
-- Print the measured values in a four-column format.
print("\nIteration:\tCurrent:\tVoltage:\tTime:\n")
print(i, defbuffer1[i], defbuffer1.sourcevalues[i],
defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[i])
file.write(FileNumber, string.format("%g,%g, %g\r\n",defbuffer1.readings[i],
defbuffer1.sourcevalues[i],defbuffer1.relativetimestamps[i]))
end
-- Close the .csv file.
file.close(FileNumber)
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 8-11

Battery application test results

The following figures show the results of this test application.
Figure 46: 2450 USER swipe screen with test results
1 Measured load current

2 Measured battery voltage
3 Source value and elapsed test time
Figure 47: Results of battery charge and discharge test
8-12 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 9
Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells
In this section:
Introduction .............................................................................. 9-1
Solar cell characterization ........................................................ 9-5
Introduction
This example application demonstrates how to use the 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument to measure
the I-V characteristics of a solar cell.
From the I-V characteristics measured by the 2450, you can determine important parameters about
the solar cell, including:
• Maximum current (IMAX) and voltage (VMAX)

• Maximum power (PMAX)
• Open circuit voltage (VOC)
• Short-circuit current (ISC)
Because the 2450 has four-quadrant source capability, it can sink up to 1 A of cell current as a
function of the applied voltage.
Equipment required
another set)
• One solar cell
Section 9: Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual

Device connections
Connect the 2450 to the solar cell in a 4-wire configuration to provide the best measurement accuracy
and eliminate the effects of the lead resistance on the measurement.
To use the 4-wire connection method:
• Connect the FORCE LO and SENSE LO leads to the cathode terminal.

• Connect the FORCE HI and SENSE HI leads to the anode terminal.
• Make the connections as close to the solar cell as possible to avoid including the resistance of
the test leads in the measurement.
You can use either the front-panel or the rear-panel terminals for this application.
9-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 9: Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells
the output is on.
The following figure shows the schematic for the application.
Figure 49: Model 2450 connections to a solar cell
The following figures show the physical connections for the front and rear panels. Note that you must
use either the front-panel terminals or rear-panel terminals — you cannot mix connections.
The rear-panel connections are triaxial. The front-panel connections are safety banana jacks.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 9-3

Clip Lead Set.
Figure 50: Model 2450 4-wire connections to the front panel
triaxial cables.
Figure 51: Model 2450 4-wire connections to the rear panel
9-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Solar cell characterization

This application demonstrates how to use the 2450 to characterize a solar cell. The examples show
how to use the front panel, SCPI code over a remote interface, and TSP code over a remote
interface.
• Reset the instrument.

• Select the source voltage function and measure current function.
• Set the current limit.
• Select four-wire (remote sense) mode.
• Set up and generate a voltage sweep.
• Initiate the trigger model, which will turn the output on.
• Record the measurements.
• After the voltage sweep is complete, turn off the output.
• Retrieve the measurements.
• View the data on the front-panel graph.
You must control the light source for this application; you will run the test with the light source on and
again with the light source off.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 9-5

Set up the solar cell I-V sweep from the front panel
This is an example of an I-V test that sweeps voltage from 0 V to 0.55 V in 10 mV steps and
measures the resulting current. You can then view the data on the graph screen.

1. Make connections to the instrument and device under test (DUT) as described in Device
connections (on page 9-2).
2. Press the POWER switch on the front panel to turn on the instrument.
3. Reset the instrument:
c. Select System Reset.
d. Select OK.

8. Under Measure, select Settings.
9. Set Sense to 4-Wire Sense. A warning is displayed.
10. Select OK to clear the warning.
12. Under Source, select Sweep.
13. Set the Start level to 0 V and select OK.
14. Set the Stop level to 0.55 V and select OK.
15. Set the Step level to 10 mV and select OK.
16. Swipe the SWEEP SETTINGS screen until you see Source Limit.
17. Set Source Limit to 1 A and select OK.
18. Select Generate. This sets up a trigger model for the sweep.
21. Press the TRIGGER key to initiate the trigger model. The output turns on and a RUN indicator is
visible at the top of the screen while the sweep is running.
22. Press the trigger key again to repeat the sweep.
The following figure shows an example of solar cell I-V measurements on the front-panel graph. Note
that the current is negative on the graph because the 2450 is sinking current.
9-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Figure 52: Example of solar cell measurements on the front-panel graph
Set up the solar cell I-V sweep using SCPI commands

This example sequence of SCPI commands generates an I-V sweep on a solar cell. You may need to
make changes so that this code will run in your programming environment.
In this example, the voltage is swept from 0 V to 0.55 V in 56 steps. The resulting solar cell current is
measured. The current and voltage measurements are stored in default buffer 1 (defbuffer1).

Command Description
*RST
SENS:FUNC "CURR"
 Reset the 2450.
SENS:CURR:RANG:AUTO ON  Set to measure current.
SENS:CURR:RSEN ON  Set to measure with autorange enabled.
SOUR:FUNC VOLT
SOUR:VOLT:RANG 2  Set to use 4-wire sense mode.
SOUR:VOLT:ILIM 1  Set to source voltage.
SOUR:SWE:VOLT:LIN 0, 0.55, 56, 0.1  Set to the 2 V source range.
:INIT
*WAI  Set the current limit to 1 A.
TRAC:DATA? 1, 56, "defbuffer1", SOUR, READ  Set to sweep voltage from 0 to 0.55 V in 56 steps
with a 0.1 s delay.
 Initiate the sweep.
 Wait until the sweep is finished.
 Read the source and measure values from
defbuffer1.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 9-7

Set up the solar cell I-V sweep using TSP commands

online help for TSB and in the “Introduction to TSP operation” section of the Model 2450 Reference
Manual.

In this application, a linear voltage sweep is configured to output voltage from 0 V to 0.53 V in
56 steps. The instrument measures the resulting current from the solar cell during the sweep.

-- Define the number of points in the sweep.
num = 56
-- Reset the instrument and clear the buffer.
reset()
-- Set the source and measure functions.
-- Measurement settings.
smu.terminals = smu.TERMINALS_FRONT
-- Source settings.
smu.source.highc = smu.OFF
smu.source.range = 2
smu.source.readback = smu.ON
smu.source.ilimit.level = 1
smu.source.sweeplinear("SolarCell", 0, 0.53, num, 0.1)
-- Start the trigger model and wait for it to complete.
waitcomplete()
9-8 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

-- Define initial values.

voltage = defbuffer1.sourcevalues
current = defbuffer1
isc = current[1]
mincurr = current[1]
imax = current[1]
voc = voltage[1]
vmax = voltage[1]
pmax = voltage[1]*current[1]
-- Calculate values.
for i = 1, num do
print(voltage[i],current[i],voltage[i]*current[i])
if (voltage[i]*current[i] < pmax) then
pmax = voltage[i]*current[i]
imax = current[i]
vmax = voltage[i]
end
if math.abs(current[i]) < math.abs(mincurr) then
voc = voltage[i]
end
end
pmax = math.abs(pmax)
imax = math.abs(imax)
print("Pmax = ", pmax, ", Imax = ", imax, ", Vmax = ", vmax, ", Isc = ", isc, ", " ..
"Voc = ", voc)
-- Display values on the front panel.
display.changescreen(display.SCREEN_USER_SWIPE)
display.settext(display.TEXT1, string.format("Pmax = %.4fW", pmax))
display.settext(display.TEXT2, string.format("Isc = %.4fA, Voc = %.2fV", isc, voc))
In the example above, the instrument is programmed to display custom text on the USER swipe
screen using the display.changescreen and display.settext commands. After the test is
finished, the display will indicate the maximum power (PMAX), the short circuit current (ISC), and the
open circuit voltage (VOC), as shown in the figure below.
Figure 53: Solar cell I-V sweep results on the USER swipe screen
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 9-9

After the code is executed, five values are returned in the Instrument Console of Test Script Builder
(TSB), and the measured current, voltage, and calculated power are displayed on the front panel of
the 2450. You can copy the data from the TSB Instrument Console into a spreadsheet application
such as Microsoft® Excel® for graphing and further analysis. The figure below shows the results of
graphing the data in an Excel spreadsheet. Notice that the test on the solar cell was executed with
light (light ON) and in the dark (light OFF).
Figure 54: Solar cell I-V characteristics generated with and without light
9-10 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 10
Troubleshooting FAQs
In this section:
About this section ................................................................... 10-1
Where can I find updated drivers? .......................................... 10-1
How do I upgrade the firmware? ............................................ 10-2
Why can't the 2450 read my USB flash drive? ....................... 10-3
How do I change the command set? ...................................... 10-3
Why am I getting a 5074 event code? .................................... 10-4
How do I save the present state of the instrument? ............... 10-5
Why did my settings change? ................................................. 10-6
What are the Quick Setup options? ........................................ 10-6
About this section

This section helps you find answers to the most common questions encountered with the 2450. For
additional FAQs, see “Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual.
Where can I find updated drivers?

For the latest drivers and additional support information, see the Keithley Instruments support
website.
To see what drivers are available for your instrument:

1. Go to tek.com/support.
2. Enter the model number of your instrument.
3. Select Software from the filter list.
4. Select Driver from the filter list.
If you use the native LabVIEWTM or IVI driver, you must configure the 2450 to use the SCPI
command set. For information on changing the command set, refer to How do I change the
command set? (on page 10-3)
Section 10: Troubleshooting FAQs Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual
How do I upgrade the firmware?
Do not turn off power or remove the USB flash drive until the upgrade process is complete.
The firmware file must be in the root subdirectory of the flash drive and must be the only firmware file
in that location. You can upgrade or downgrade the firmware from the front panel or from the virtual
front panel. Refer to “Using the 2450 virtual front panel” in the Model 2450 Reference Manual for
information.
From the front panel or virtual front panel:

1. Copy the firmware file (.upg file) to a USB flash drive.
2. Verify that the firmware file is in the root subdirectory of the flash drive and that it is the only
firmware file in that location.
3. Disconnect any input and output terminals that are attached to the instrument.
4. Turn the instrument power off. Wait a few seconds.
5. Turn the instrument power on.
6. Insert the flash drive into the USB port on the front panel of the instrument.
7. From the instrument front panel, press the MENU key.
8. Under System, select Info/Manage.
9. Choose an upgrade option:
 To upgrade to a newer version of firmware, select Upgrade to New.
 To return to a previous version of firmware, select Downgrade to Older.
10. If the instrument is controlled remotely, a message is displayed. Select Yes to continue.
11. When the upgrade is complete, reboot the instrument.
A message is displayed while the upgrade is in progress.
Upgrade files are available on tek.com/keithley.
10-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 10: Troubleshooting FAQs
Why can't the 2450 read my USB flash drive?

Verify that the flash drive is formatted with the FAT32 file system. The 2450 only supports FAT and
FAT32 drives using MBR (Master Boot Record).
In Microsoft® Windows®, you can check the file system by checking the properties of the USB flash
drive.
Higher capacity USB drives take longer to read.
How do I change the command set?

You can change the command set that you use with the 2450. The remote command sets that are
available include:
• SCPI: An instrument-specific language built on the SCPI standard.

• TSP: A scripting programming language that contains instrument-specific control commands that
can be executed from a stand-alone instrument. You can use TSP to send individual commands
or use it to combine commands into scripts.
• SCPI 2400: An instrument-specific language that allows you to run code developed for earlier
Series 2400 instruments.
If you change the command set, reboot the instrument.
You cannot combine the command sets.
As delivered from Keithley Instruments, the 2450 is set to work with the SCPI command set.
If you choose the SCPI 2400 command set, you will not have access to some of the extended
ranges and other features that are now available using the SCPI command set. In addition, some
Series 2400 code will work differently in the 2450 than it did in the earlier instrument. In the Model
2450 Reference Manual, see “2450 in a Model 2400 application” for information about the
differences.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 10-3

To set the command set from the front panel:

3. Select the appropriate Command Set.
You are prompted to confirm the change to the command set and reboot.
To verify which command set is selected from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG?
To change to the SCPI command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG SCPI
To change to the TSP command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG TSP
To change to the SCPI 2400 command set from a remote interface:

Send the command:
*LANG SCPI2400
Why am I getting a 5074 event code?

The instrument provides an interlock circuit on the rear panel. You must enable this circuit in order for
the instrument to set source voltages greater than ±42 V DC. If you try to assign a high-voltage output
and turn the source on when the interlock is not asserted, you see event code 5074, “Output voltage
limited by interlock.”
The 2450 is provided with an interlock circuit that must be positively activated in order for the
high voltage output to be enabled. The interlock helps facilitate safe operation of the
equipment in a test system. Bypassing the interlock could expose the operator to hazardous
voltages that could result in personal injury or death.
10-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Model 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument User's Manual Section 10: Troubleshooting FAQs
The action when the interlock signal is not asserted depends on the Interlock setting. If Interlock is set
to Off, if the safety interlock signal is not asserted, the following occurs:
• The nominal output is limited to less than ±42 V.

• The front-panel INTERLOCK indicator is not illuminated.
• You can output voltages less than ±42.
If Interlock is set to On, when the safety interlock signal is not asserted, the following occurs:
• You cannot turn on the source output.

• The front-panel INTERLOCK indicator is not illuminated.
Whenever the interlock changes state (from asserted to not asserted or vice versa), the output is
turned off.
To recover from this error, properly engage the interlock using a safe test fixture before turning on the
2450 output.
How do I save the present state of the instrument?

You can save the settings in the instrument as a script using the front-panel menus or from a remote
interface. After they are saved, you can recall the script or copy it to a USB flash drive.
From the front panel:

1. Configure the 2450 to the settings that you want to save.
3. Under Scripts, select Create Setup.
4. Select Create. A keyboard is displayed.
5. Use the keyboard to enter the name of the script.
6. Select the OK button on the displayed keyboard. The script is added to internal memory.
Using SCPI commands:

Configure the instrument to the settings that you want to save. To save the setup, send the
command:
*SAV <n>
Where <n> is an integer from 0 to 4.
In the front-panel script menus, the setups saved with the *SAV command have the name Setup0x,
where x is the value you set for <n>.
2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 10-5

Using TSP commands:

Configure the instrument to the settings that you want to save. To save the setup, send the
command:
createconfigscript("setupName")
Where setupName is the name of the setup script that is created.
Why did my settings change?

Many of the commands in the 2450 are saved with the source or measure function that was active
when you set them. For example, assume you have the measure function set to current and you set a
value for display digits. When you change the measure function to voltage, the display digits value
changes to the value that was last set for the voltage measure function. When you return to the
current measure function, the display digits value returns to the value you set previously.
What are the Quick Setup options?

The QUICKSET key opens a screen that provides access to function selection, performance
adjustments, and quick setups.
The Function button on the Quickset menu allows you to select a source or measure function. The
options are the same as those available when you use the front-panel FUNCTION key.
The Performance slider allows you to adjust speed and resolution. As you increase speed, you lower
the amount of resolution. As you increase resolution, you decrease the reading speed. These settings
take effect the next time the output is turned on and measurements are made.
The Quick Setups allow you to set the instrument to operate as a Voltmeter, Ammeter, Ohmmeter, or
Power Supply.
When you select a Quick Setup, the instrument turns the output on. Carefully consider and
configure the appropriate output-off state, source, and limits before connecting the 2450 to a
device that can deliver energy, such as other voltage sources, batteries, capacitors, or solar
cells. Configure the settings that are recommended for the instrument before making
connections to the device. Failure to consider the output-off state, source, and limits may
result in damage to the instrument or to the device under test (DUT).
10-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Section 11
Next steps
In this section:
Additional 2450 information .................................................... 11-1
Additional 2450 information

This manual has prepared you to start using your new 2450 SourceMeter® Instrument for your
application. For more detailed information, refer to the Keithley Instruments Model 2450 Reference
Manual.
Also see tek.com/keithley for support and additional information about the instrument. From the
website, you can access:
• The Knowledge Center, which contains the following handbooks:

 The Low Level Measurements Handbook: Precision DC Current, Voltage, and Resistance
Measurements
 Switching Handbook: A Guide to Signal Switching in Automated Test Systems
• Application notes
• Updated drivers
• Information about related products
Your local Field Applications Engineer can help you with product selection, configuration, and usage.
Check the website for contact information.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
All Keithley trademarks and trade names are the property of Keithley Instruments.
All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective companies.
Keithley Instruments
Corporate Headquarters • 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139 • 440-248-0400 • Fax: 440-248-6168 • 1-800-935-5595 • tek.com/keithley
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These are the original instructions in English.

Document number: 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

The types of product users are:

The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.

Front-panel overview ................................................................................................. 2-1

Using a remote interface ........................................................................................... 3-1

Making basic front-panel measurements ................................................................ 4-1

Measuring low-resistance devices ........................................................................... 5-1

Leakage current and insulation resistance ............................................................. 6-1

Measuring I-V characteristics of FETs ..................................................................... 7-1

Device connections .............................................................................................................. 7-5

Rechargeable battery measurements ...................................................................... 8-1

Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells ............................................................ 9-1

Troubleshooting FAQs ............................................................................................ 10-1

Next steps ................................................................................................................. 11-1

Introduction to this manual

The documentation includes:

1-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Organization of manual sections

2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 1-3

Power the instrument on or off

To connect the power cord:

Figure 1: Model 2450 rear panel

To turn a 2450 on or off:

Figure 2: 2450 front panel

2-2 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Control Graphic Description

Touchscreen The 2450 has a high-resolution, five-inch color touchscreen display.

2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-3

Control Graphic Description

FORCE terminals Use FORCE HI and FORCE LO terminal connections to source or

Turn the 2450 output on or off

2-4 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Using the front panel:

Using SCPI commands:

To turn the output off, send the command:

Using TSP commands:

To turn the output off, send the command:

Select items on the touchscreen

• Touch it with your finger

The following topics describe the 2450 touchscreen in more detail.

2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-5

The figure below shows a screen with a scroll bar.

Figure 3: Touchscreen scroll indicator

Interactive swipe screens

2-6 2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019

Swipe screen heading bar

Figure 4: Swipe screens, maximized and minimized

# Screen element Description

3 Calculations shortcut Select to open the CALCULATION SETTINGS menu.

6 Graph shortcut Select to open the Graph screen.

2450-900-01 Rev. E / August 2019 2-7

SOURCE swipe screen

Figure 5: SOURCE swipe screen

SETTINGS swipe screen

Figure 6: SETTINGS swipe screen