User manual

User Manual – Rev B FCS Series II
7.4 Isolating amplifier failures in multi-box systems
A self-test can be performed over the bus by sending the *TST? query command. The self-test
will run until the first error is encountered and terminate. The response to the query will either
be the first error encountered or 0 is no error was found. (Selftest passed).
On multi-box model configurations such as FCS36/2 or FCS54/3, it is possible to isolate certain
failures to a particular chassis. This can be done using the *TST? Self test error codes.
Note: The self test should always be run in 3 phase mode on all FCS models with the –MODE
option. If the self-test is run in single-phase mode, not all aspects of the Phase B and C
hardware will be tested as a result. If the power source is a single-phase only configuration, the
self-test can only be run in single-phase mode.
To execute a selftest, the IEEE-488, RS232C, LAN or USB interface must be used. The LxGui
command line can be used to send the *TST? Command. The following rules apply:
1. If a voltage error is reported on phase 1, 2 or 3, it indicates the corresponding amplifier
in the Master chassis has most likely failed.
To further isolate the failed amplifier in a three-box configuration, the outputs of all three chassis
must be disconnected from each other. Then program each phase and close the output relay.
Check the output of each chassis for the expected output voltage. The chassis with no output(s)
will have the failed amplifier.
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