15 Discovery Way, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978)263-3584, Fax: (978)263-5086
Web Site: www.piacton.com

Operating Instructions
Acton SP-150

0.150 Meter Focal Length Dual Grating
Imaging Monochromator / SpectrographRev. 1097.1

Acton SP-150
Operating Instructions
CONTENTS:

Page

I.

Brief Introduction and SP-150 Description

2

II.

Specifications

3

III.

SP-150 Setup

IV.

V.

A.

Unpacking Note

4

B.

Connecting the SP-150 to the Optional 150-749
Remote Scan Controller, or to a Computer

4

C.

Cables and Connections for SP-150

5

D.

Mounting Accessories

6

E.

Mounting Focal Plane Detectors

6-7

F.

Slit Width Adjustment for 716 Bilateral Slits and 715 Fixed
Slit Assemblies

8-9

SP-150 Operation
A.

Initialization

10

B.

Operating the SP-150 Using the Model 150-749
Remote Scan Controller

10 - 14C.

Operating the SP-150 Using a Computer

15 - 17D.

IEEE 488 Option and Example Program Listings

18 - 22

E.

Focusing and Aligning Array Detectors

F.

Changing from Monochromator to Spectrograph Operation

G.

Interchanging Grating Turrets

23
24 - 25
26

Appendices and Schematic Drawings
A.

Alternate Start-Up Parameters

27

B.

Cable Connection Diagrams

28

C.

Accessories List and Ordering Information

D.

Warranty Information

E.

Instructions for the “UTILIT” function included
with the optional 150-749 remote scan controller

F.

Drawings and Schematics

29 - 3637

38 - 401Section I: Brief Introduction and SP-150 Description
Brief Introduction:
This instruction manual is intended to assist you in set-up and operation of your new
Acton SP-150 monochromator/spectrograph. Even if you are an experienced user ofspectroscopic equipment, we suggest that you follow the manual (at least initially) to insure proper
setup and operation. If you have any questions about the information contained in this manual,please feel free to contact the Princeton Instruments service department.
SP-150 Description:
The SP-150 is a 150mm focal length monochromator/spectrograph. It features anastigmatism-corrected optical system, dual indexable gratings and interchangeable grating turrets.
The SP-150 includes a direct digital grating scan mechanism with full wavelength scanningcapabilities, plus built-in RS-232 and IEEE-488 computer interfaces. Three standard models areavailable:
Model SP-150-M: Monochromator version of the SP-150.
Model SP-150-S: Spectrograph version of the SP-150.
Model SP-150-MS: Monochromator and Spectrograph version of the SP-150.

SP-150 shownwith optional Model 150-749
Remote Scan Controller
and Power Supply

Dual Grating
TurretInside the SP-150:
Cylindrical field correction, or added vertical
Entrance
Slit
power introduced by a toroidal mirro,
results in an astigmatism-corrected
optical system capable of multi-channel
spectroscopy. A stepping motor based
direct digital scanning system is standard,with control electronics built-in. RS232 and IEEE488
interfaces for computer control are included, plus anoptional remote scan controller with dedicated scan
control software is available for operating the
SP-150.

Focal Plane orExit Slit

Focusing Mirror
Collimating
MirrorBasic Optical Layout

2Section II: SP-150 Specifications
NOTE:

Each SP-150 is operated for at least 15 minutes prior tocalibration to insure optimum stability. End users should follow thispractice if their application calls for optimum stability & reproducibility.

Optical System: Astigmatism-Corrected Czerny-TurnerHigh Throughput: Grating remains fully illuminated throughout the entire scanning range
Focal Length: 150mm
Aperture Ratio: f/4
Stray Light: <5 x 10-4
Resolution: 0.4nm or better with 10µm wide by 4mm high slits and a standard 1200g/mm grating (200µm wide slits
provide a 1.0nm bandpass with a 1200g/mm grating)
Reciprocal Linear Dispersion: 5nm/mm (nominal) with a 1200g/mm grating
Focal Plane Area: 10mm high X 25mm wide
Wavelength Scanning System: Direct digital scanning system with CMOS-based microprocessor. Provides maximum
grating rotation and linear (constant nm/min.) wavelength scanning controlled by computer or Model 150-749 remotescan controller.
Scanning Range: 0-1400nm with a 1200g/mm grating. 0-2800nm with a 600g/mm grating.
Wavelength Accuracy: ±0.25nm with a 1200g/mm grating
Wavelength Repeatability: ±0.05nm with a 1200g/mm grating
Computer Interface: The SP-150 includes RS-232 and IEEE-488 computer compatibility.
Slits: Fixed or bilaterally adjustable slits are available from 10µm to 3mm widths. Available slit heights are 4mm and
14mm. 4mm is normally provided with monochromators, while 14mm height is intended for spectrographs.
Dual Indexable Gratings: Two gratings can be mounted in the SP-150 at the same time, and selected bypush-button using the Model 150-749 scan controller, or by computer. It takes 20 seconds to index a new grating into
operating position.
Wavelength Readout: The Model 150-749 remote scan controller provides correct wavelength readout in nanometers
for any grating installed. Wavelengths can also be read by computer.
Conversion from Spectrograph to Monochromator: The SP-150 is designed for easy conversion frommonochromator to spectrograph. Conversion time is less than 60 seconds and can be completed in the field.
Electrical Requirements: The SP-150 runs on 100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz, automatically selected by the power
supply.

3Section III: Instrument Setup
Section III-A: Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully unpack and examine the SP-150 and any accessories purchased.
Note:

Report any damage immediately to the carrier and to
Princeton Instruments, and save all packing material.

Section III-B: Connecting the SP-150 Monochromator/Spectrograph to the Optional
Model 150-749 Remote Scan Controller or Computer
The SP-150 is designed for operation by computer using RS-232 or IEEE-488, or by using
the optional Model 150-749 Remote Scan Controller. Either method of control enables wavelength
scanning at a pre-set linear scan rate, change of scanning speeds, indexing of gratings, rapid GOTO
wavelength positioning, change of grating turrets if available, and “jog” wavelength positioning. The
diagram below shows the cable connections necessary for operation of the SP-150 with theoptional Model 150-749 remote scan controller, or by computer using RS-232 or IEEE-488
connections. Sections in this manual describe actual operating instructions for the SP-150
SP-150 Cable Connections:
Optional 150-749 Remote Scan Controller, RS-232, or IEEE-488

IEEE-488
InterfacePower
Connection

RS-232
Interface

Details of the RS-232,
IEEE-488, and Power
Connections on the
SP-150

Optional
150-179 Remote
Scan Controller

RS-232
Interface

IEEE-488
InterfaceSP-150Power Supply
Motor
To AC
Line

Cable Connections for
RS-232 or IEEE-488
NOTE: When using IEEE-488
communication, disconnect the
RS-232 cable from the SP-150.

Computer with
RS-232 or IEEE-488
4

Section III-C: Cables and Connections for SP-150
Princeton Instruments offers the following computer cables as options:CC-499-1
CC-499-2
CC-499-3
CC-499-4
CC-499-5

IBM PC or XT compatible
25 pin female ( DB25S) connector to 9 pin male connector ( DB9P).
IBM AT or compatible
9 pin female ( DB9S) connector to 9 pin male connector ( DB9P).
Computer terminal type
25 pin male ( DB25S) connector to 9 pin male connector ( DB9P).
9-pin cable for Macintosh computer
IEEE-488 cable, 4 meters long

If none of these cables are compatible with your system, consult Princeton Instruments for a custom
cable. If you have facilities for constructing a custom cable, use the RS-232 pin arrangement
shown in Table 1, or the IEEE-488 pin arrangement shown in Table 2. See also Appendix B.
Table 1: RS-232 Computer Interface Pin Arrangement:
pin #
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

description
open
RD data from SP-150 to computer
TD data from computer to SP-150
open
groundopen
RTS
connect these two
CTS
pins together
open

A terminal or RS-232 computer port must be set up as follows: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1
start bit, 1 stop bit.
Table 2: IEEE-488 Computer Interface Pin Arrangement:

5Section III-D: Mounting Accessories to the SP-150 Slit Assemblies
All Acton accessories come with their own set of instructions for proper mounting andoperation. The instructions below are only general information. Please refer to the individual
instructions for detailed information.
Accessories: The full range of Acton series accessories mount directly to the
SP-150 slit assemblies. A drawing of the standard slit assemblies can be found in
the Appendices Section to assist you in mounting accessories. To mount an accessory to theslit, the general procedure is as follows:
1. Place the accessory directly against the face of the slit body. Light sources
normally mount on the entrance slit, detectors on the exit slit. Other accessories
such as fiber bundles normally mount on the entrance slit, but are also compatible
with the exit slit.
2. Using four (4) 8-32 screws normally provided with the accessory, secure theaccessory to the slit body.
Light sources fitted with light collection/focusing optics are normally factory aligned to thestandard slit.
Note: In some instances with light sources, there is limited access to the bottom twoscrew holes. In this case, Princeton Instruments provides special slotted holes
in the light source housing to facilitate mounting of the source to the slit.
Section III-E: Mounting Focal Plane Detectors to the SP-150 Spectrograph
Refer to the SP-150 schematic found in the Appendices Section. This shows details of thestandard spectrograph, along with details about the mounting flange for array detectors.

The standard mounting flange for CCDs and diodearrays accommodates detectors with two different
bolts circles. There are three (3) equally spaced
10-32 tapped holes on a 3.60" bolt circle, andthree (3) equally spaced holes on a 3.88" bolt
circle designed to accept 10-32 button headscrews. A set of special cross-shaped baffles aremounted in the array detector mounting flange todefine the focal plane area and reduce potential
stray light. This unique baffle shape permits
mounting of many different array detectors.
Standard Array Detector
Mounting Flange
6

To mount an array detector to the SP-150, use the following procedure:
1.

The array detector mounting flange is attached to a sliding tube, which fits inside a
unique split clamp arrangement.

2.

Loosen the split clamp and gently slide the array detector mounting flange all the way
out of the SP-150 housing. Make sure that the sliding tube and o-ring are kept clean.
lNote: At this point it is very important to check the focal plane distance of thearray detector. This is the distance from the front mounting surface of thearray detector to the actual CCD or diode array element. Because array
detector focal distances vary, the correct distance is crucial in order todetermine if a spacer is required for proper focus. Generally, a spacer isrequired if the detector focal plane distance is between 0.340" to 0.670". This
spacer is normally provided with spectrographs. If the detector focal plane
distance falls between 0.670" and 1.00", then no spacer is required.

3.

Position the array detector mounting
flange against the array detector, andmatch the hole patterns. When correctly
positioned, the baffles should be squareto the array detector. If it does not alignproperly, contact Princeton Instruments.

4.

Fasten the array detector mounting flange
to the detector, then carefully slide thisassembly back into the SP-150
housing.

5.

Re-tighten the split clamp to secure thedetector assembly.

Refer to Section IV-E for focusing
procedures for array detectors.

View of Split Camp Assembly7Section III-F: Slit Width Adjustments in the Model 716 Bilateral Slits
The slit width of each bilateral slit assembly (716 type) is adjustable from 0.010 millimeters to 3
millimeters (10 to 3,000 µm) by a micrometer knob located on the top of the slit housing. The
micrometer knob is graduated in 0.010 millimeter (10 µm) increments.
Each clockwise revolution of the micrometer knob increases the slit width 0.25 millimeters (250 µm).
For maximum reproducibility, the slit width should be set in a clockwise direction (increasing slit
widths) each time it is changed. Refer to the drawing below.
The micrometer knob should not be rotated below a reading of 0.00 or above 3.00. A micrometersetting of less than 0.010 millimeters (10 µm) should not be used, because a stop is provided toprevent the slit jaws from contacting each other.
Note: Damage May Be Done If Slit Jaws Are Opened Wider Than 3.0mm.

Slit Width Micrometer Settings
Slit Width Adjustable from
10 Micrometers to3000 Micrometers (3mm)Slit Width
Adjusting Knob

Each Division Equals
10 Micrometers
1015Each Division Equals
250 Micrometers
SleeveEach Numeral Equals
1000 Micrometers(1mm)

Slit Width Setting:
200 Micrometers (0.200mm)

2
3
Slit Housing

Slit Width Setting:1380 Micrometers (1.38mm)
8

Section III-F Continued: Interchanging Fixed Width Slit Plates in the
Model 715 Fixed Slit Assemblies
If your SP150 was purchased with the Model 715
type fixed slit assemblies, the following procedure
should be followed in order to change slit widths.
First, at least one additional fixed slit plate, Model
715-4-XX or 715-14-XX, must be available to permitchanging widths in the 715 type slit assemblies.
Changing Fixed Slit Plates in the 150-715-1
and 150-715-2 Assemblies:

Optical
Axis
Position

1. Remove any accessories from the slit body.
2. Using an allen wrench, loosen the two slit platescrews which hold the slit plate to the slit body.
Remove the slit plate without contacting the slit
blades. Store the removed slit in a clean, dry
area.

Note:

Standard Model 715 Fixed Slit Assembly
Note Optical Axis Position

Align the new slit plate to the SP-150 optical axis by orienting it so thatthe slit width label is upright and readable. When correctly mounted,
the slits are off-centered height-wise, slightly above the center of the slit body.
See the slit assembly drawing in the appendices section for details, or pictureson this page for reference.

3. Place the new slit plate in the slit body and secure
it in position using the slit plate screws. The cone
shaped holes in the slit plate are designed to align theslits to the optical system.

Slit Plate
Mounting Screws

4. The slit width has now been changed.

Fixed Width Slit Plate
Note Orientation for Correct Installation

9

Section IV: SP-150 Operation
Section IV-A: Initialization
When power is turned ON to the SP-150, it initializes to a wavelength of 0.0nm for grating
number 1. If the power is switched OFF and then ON again to the SP-150, it will initialize.
Initialization gives the system a reference, or starting position to keep track of wavelength position,
grating location, and other parameters. Alternative start-up parameters can be programmed if thefactory defaults are not suitable (See Appendix A).
Section IV-B: Using the Optional Model 150-749 Remote Scan Controller
The Model 150-749 is a Remote Scan Controller (referred to as “controller” for the remainder of thismanual) for the SP-150 Monochromator/Spectrographs. Functions include scanning of
wavelengths, GOTO for rapidly moving the monochromator to a specific center wavelength, indexingof gratings, and interchanging of grating turrets. It consists of an H-P Model HP 48G Graphics
Calculator with RS-232 Interface, and Acton-written scan control software. The controller is
programmed with all the instrument scan functions displayed as convenient menu items, with simple
keystrokes enabling any of the scan functions to be performed.
The controller is connected to the SP-150 through the standard RS-232 port with the cableprovided. It is designed to send commands and receive information about the specificSP-150 it is attached to, therefore a single controller can be used with many different
instruments (one at a time, however). When the power is switched OFF and then ON again to
the SP-150 and the controller, the SP-150 will initialize. If the controller power is switched OFFthen ON again, and the SP-150 power is left ON, the the controller will return to the lastmenu selected.
Battery Power Management Feature:
If the controller is not used for a few minutes, the LCD screen will turn off to save battery power.
If this happens, simply press the ON button to return to the menu you were using.

Operation of the Controller with the SP-150:
With the controller connected to the SP-150, turn the power ON first to the SP-150 andallow it to initialize. Then turn the power on to the 150-749 controller. The following menu should
be displayed:{ HOME }
4:
3:
2:
1:
SP150

UTILIT

If the above menu does not appear (for example, if the controller was operated in the calculatormode), press the RIGHT FUNCTION KEY (➦), followed by the LIBRARY key, then select SP150.
When the above menu is displayed, press the white key below the SP150 function to begin
operation (see Appendices Section for use of the "UTILIT” functions). The following menu will beshown:
10

ActonSP-150
Wavelength=
Scan to
Rate=
Grating #1
Jog Incr
GOTO

SCAN

0.0nm
0.0nm
100.0 nm/min
1200 g/mm
1.00nm
SPEED

GRAT

TURR

Main Menu

QUIT

All functions of the SP-150 are accessed while the controller displays the Main Menu.
Note: When entering a number for GOTO, SCAN or SPEED, the controller will accept an
integer or a number to the nearest tenth of a nanometer (nm). If you enter a number withhundredths or lower, it rounds up to the nearest tenth nanometer.
GOTO Menu:
Press the white key below the GOTO command. The following menu will appear (with a flashingarrow next to the Enter wavelength line):{ HOME }PRG

Go To:

Enter Wavelength

Key in the desired wavelength (in nm) and then push the <ENTER> key (ex: 500 <ENTER>). The
SP-150 will then run at the maximum motor speed to the selected wavelength and display thisinterim menu.
Acton
SP-150
Wavelength=
Scan toRate=

234.5nm500.0nm100.0 nm/min

GOTO Interim Menu

11

After the GOTO command is completed, the Main Menu will appear again showing the new center
wavelength (in a monochromator this is the wavelength at the exit slit, in a spectrograph it is thecenter of the focal plane).

Acton
SP-150
Wavelength=
Scan to
Rate=
Grating #1
Jog Incr
GOTO

SCAN

234.5nm500.0nm100.0 nm/min
1200g/mm
1.00nm
SPEED

GRAT

TURR

Main Menu

QUIT

SCAN Menu:
SCAN moves the SP-150 to a desired wavelength at a pre-set scanning rate in nanometers
per minute. To use the SCAN menu function, press the white key under the SCAN command whilein the Main Menu. The following menu will appear (with a flashing arrow after Enter wavelength):{ HOME }Scan to:

SCAN Menu

Enter Wavelength

As with GOTO, key in the desired wavelength (in nm) followed by <ENTER>. The SP-150 willscan to the selected wavelength at the preset scanning rate. To change the scanning rate, see
the SPEED (Scanning Rate) instructions following this section. The controller will continue toupdate the wavelength display as scanning takes place. When the scanning is complete, thecontroller returns to the Main Menu with updated information:
Acton
SP-150
Wavelength=
Scan to
Rate=
Grating #1
Jog Incr
GOTO

SCAN

100.0nm100.0nm100.0 nm/min
1200g/mm
1.00nm
SPEED

GRAT

TURR

Main Menu
QUIT

12SPEED (Scanning Rate) Menu:
To change the wavelength scanning speed of the SP-150, press the white key below theSPEED function in the Main Menu. The following menu will be displayed (with a flashing arrow afterEnter speed):{ HOME }PRG

SCAN Menu

Enter speed

Key in the desired scanning speed in nm/min then press <ENTER> (ex: 200.0 <ENTER>). If you
enter a wavelength above the maximum scanning speed for a specific grating, the SP-150 andcontroller will default to the maximum scanning speed allowed for the specific grating. The controller
will return to the Main Menu with updated scan speed, as shown in the menu below:
Acton
SP-150
Wavelength=
Scan to
Rate=
Grating #1
Jog Incr
GOTO

100.0nm100.0nm200.0 nm/min
1200g/mm
1.00nm

SCAN

SPEED

GRAT

TURR

Main Menu

QUIT

GRAT (Grating Change) Menu:
Use the GRAT menu to index a desired grating into the operating position (only if there is more than
one grating installed in your SP-150). From the Main Menu, press the white key below the
GRAT command. This will display a menu that shows the available gratings for the turret currently
installed, with a dot (■) indicating the grating currently in operating position. For example:
Grating:■

1 1200g/mm BLZ=500nm
2 300g/mm BLZ=500nm
GRAT Menu

1

2

QUIT

This menu shows that Grating #1 (1200g/mm, blazed at 500nm) is in the operating position. To
select grating #2, press the white button under the number 2 on the display. During the 20 seconds
required for a grating change, the controller displays “Changing Grating”. When the change iscomplete, the dot (■) appears next to the #2 grating. To return back to the Main Menu, press thewhite key below the QUIT function. The Main Menu will now display the new grating.
13

TURR (Turret Change) Menu:
The SP-150 comes with standard self-aligning, interchangeable grating turrets. If your
SP-150 has been purchased with more than one turret (up to three turrets are possible for a
total of six gratings), you must input the appropriate turret number using the TURR menu, each timea turret is changed. For example, if you switch from turret #1 to turret #2, use the TURR Menu to let
the software know you made the change. This enables the SP-150 and controller to scan correctly
and provide correct wavelength display.
To select the Turret Change Menu from the Main Menu, press the white key below TURR on thecontroller display. The TURR menu displays, with a dot (■), which grating turret is currently installedin the SP-150, along with available turrets. A display of “Not Inst” means that no gratings
have been installed in the specified turret position. For example, the following menu shows thatturret #1 is installed with Grating #1 (1200g/mm) and Grating #2 (300g/mm). It also shows thatturret #2 is available, and that #3 is not installed. To input the correct turret information, press thewhite key below the numbers 1, 2, or 3 (in this case, nothing will happen if you select turret 3).
Turret:Grat #1

Grat #2■ 1

1200g/mm
2 600g/mm
3 Not Inst12300g/mm
150g/mm
Not Inst
3

TURR Menu

QUIT

Press the key below the QUIT function to return to the Main Menu. To interchange turrets in in the
SP-150, see Section IV-G Interchanging Grating Turrets.
JOG Instructions:
The controller for the SP-150 allows the user to change wavelengths without accessing GOTO
or SCAN, and without keying in a destination wavelength. This function is useful for rapidly
scanning from one wavelength region to another, searching for the peak of a line, or accurately
positioning a source image on an array detector. This function is called JOG, and it can beaccessed at any time that the other functions (GOTO, SCAN, etc.) are not in operation. The
controller has four direction keys marked with arrow indicators (▲ ,▼, , and). JOG operates bymoving the SP-150 in wavelength increments ranging from 0.1nm to 1000nm, and also in“single motor step” increments. Pressing the UP arrow ( ▲ ) increases the JOG increment a factorof 10 each time it is pressed, while the DOWN arrow ( ▼ ) decreases the increment a factor of 10.
To access the single motor step JOG, press the DOWN arrow ( ▼ ) until the increment setting
decreases below 0.1nm.
JOG direction is controlled by the arrow keys marked (and). To JOG to increasing
wavelengths (by the increment chosen), press the () key. To JOG to decreasing wavelengths,press the () key. If you press either key more than once, the SP-150 will move thepreset JOG increment multiplied by the number of times the key is pressed. The maximum
wavelength possible depends on the grating in the operating position (1500nm maximum with a
1200g/mm grating, 3000nm maximum with a 600g/mm grating, etc.). The minimum wavelength
possible is -10nm for all gratings.
14

Section IV-C. Operating the SP-150 Using a Computer
The SP-150 monochromator or spectrograph can be controlled from an RS-232 terminal orfrom a computer using RS-232 or IEEE-488. The same command set, listed below, is used for
RS-232 or IEEE-488 control.
Commands can be sent as single commands or grouped into strings of commands. All commands
are single words (contain no spaces) and all commands in a string are separated by at least one
space. Parameters, if needed, precede the command and are separated from the command by atleast one space (e.g. 546.7 GOTO).
For RS-232 operation, the port set-up is 9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit and no parity. Allcommands or strings of commands must be terminated with a carriage return (0D hex). The
SP-150 responds to a command when the command has been completed by returning thecharacters “OK” followed by carriage return and line feed (hex ASCII sequence 20 6F 6B 0D 0A).
The default condition is to echo each character that is sent to the SP-150. If no echo isdesired, the command NO-ECHO will suppress the echo. The command ECHO will return the
SP-150 to the default echo state.
When using the IEEE-488 or GPIB interface, the default device address is 11. The device address
can be set to any value from 1 to 30 using the command SET-ID.
(ex: 5 SET-ID sets the GPIB address of the SP-150 to 5).
The command ?ID is used to read back the IEEE address. The optional Model 150-749 can also
set the device address. Each command or string of commands must be terminated with a carriage
return (0D hex)). NOTE: This must be a carriage return character only and not a carriage returnwith line feed. The SP-150 controls bits in the IEEE-488 status byte which can be read fromthe IEEE-488 controller.
IEEE-488 Status Byte Bits:
Bit 0

0 = command is being processed
1 = SP-150 ready for another command

Bit 1

0 = no errors
1 = SP-150 detected an error in the command

Bit 7

0 = no response or response has been read
1 = SP-150 generated a response which is now ready to be sent

SP-150 Commands:
CommandFunction

ExampleNM/MIN

Sets scan speed

100.0 NM/MIN (this sets the scan rate
to 100nm per/min)NM

Scans to destination
wavelength to nearest
0.1nm at selected scan rate.

250.0NM (this causes the SP-150 toscan to 250 nm)
15

GOTO

Goes to destination
wavelength to nearest
0.1nm at selected scan rate.

250.0 NM (causes the SP-150 to go
to 250 nm)

NM/JOG

Sets the Jog Increment
to the nearest 0.01nm.
Two digits after thedecimal point are required.

50.00 NM/JOG (causes a Jog
increment of 50.0nm, used by
JOG-UP or JOG-DN

JOG-UP

Moves the pre-set jog increment toward increasing wavelengths.

JOG-DN

Moves the pre-set jog increment toward decreasing wavelengths.

The following two commands are used when it is necessary to move to a wavelength with greater
motor step resolution than the NM or GOTO command. Note that this will not necessarily provide
better optical resolution.
<NM>

Scans to destination
wavelength to nearest
0.01nm at the selectedscan rate.

500.00 <NM> (causes the SP-150
to scan to 500nm)<GOTO>

Goes to destination
wavelength to nearest
0.01nm at maximum speed.

500.00 <GOTO> (causes the SP-150
to move to 500nm at max. motor speed)

GRATING

Selects either the first or
second grating on theselected turret. Requires
approximately 20 seconds.

2 GRATING (indexes grating #2 into position.
Moves to the same wavelength as the prev.
grating or 200nm default if wavelength is notaccessible by the selected grating.)

TURRET

Selects parameters for thegratings on turret 1, 2 or 3.

2 TURRET (selects parameters forturret #2)?NM

Sends the current wavelength to the computer or terminal with the format 250.0?NM/MIN

Sends the present scan speed to computer or terminal with the format 100.0?GRATING

Sends the present grating position (1 or 2) on the selected turret to thecomputer or terminal?GRATINGS

Sends the groove spacing and blaze wavelength of each grating position1
through 6 (2 grating positions for each of 3 turrets) to the computer or terminal.

?TURRET

Sends the selected turret number (1, 2, or 3) to the computer or terminal.

?TURRETS

Sends the groove spacing of each grating for each turret to the computer or
terminal.

16

Note: Commands must be entered exactly as described above, including all decimal points,
number of digits after the decimal point and spacing between commands.

Selecting Alternate Start-Up Parameters
The following are the Start-Up parameters and their default values:
GRATING#1

WAVELENGTH

0.0 nmSCAN SPEED

100.0 nm/min

Each of the above may be changed through the RS-232 port or IEEE-488 port using the following
commands. These values are stored in non-volatile memory and will be in effect after the next
power-up.
INIT-GRATING

Selects which of the two gratings on the installed turret the SP-150 will go toafter finding 0.0 nm on the first grating. (e.g. 2 INIT-GRATING selects thesecond grating as the default)

INIT-WAVELENGTH

INIT-SRATE

Sets an initial wavelength for the SP-150 after initialization.
(e.g. 435.84 INIT-WAVELENGTH Notice that two digits after the decimal
point are required)

Sets an initial scan rate for the SP-150.
(e.g. 500.00 INIT-SRATE Notice that two digits after the decimal point are
required)

The following command is used to return all grating parameters and start-up parameters to theoriginal factory settings.
Note: Any gratings installed at a later date (after initially receiving the
SP-150) will be erased from memory using this “restore command”.

RESTORE-FACTORY-SETTINGS

17

Section IV-D:

IEEE -488 Interface for SP-150
Monochromators and Spectrographs

The IEEE-488 interface allows control of an Acton series monochromator from the IEEE-488 bus. Allof the commands and status requests described in Section C, Operation from External Computer,are available through the IEEE-488 option. The following standard interface functions are provided:
SH1, AH1, T2, L2, SR1, RL1 (NOTE: The local lockout command is not accepted
but the front panel is automatically locked out when the monochromator controller
has been addressed as a talker or a listener), PP0, DC0, C0
The GPIB device identifier or address may be sent through the RS-232 or IEEE-488 ports.
The factory set device address is 11 and may be changed with the command SET-ID through the
GPIB or RS-232 ports (e.g. 5 SET-ID <CR> would set the device address to 5). This device
address will remain as set until another SET-ID command is issued. It is not affected by power offor reset. The command ?ID will report back the current device address.
To get into remote operation from the IEEE-488 bus, the SP-150 must be in local mode.
Power up the SP-150 without anything connected to its RS-232 port. When the SP-150 isthen addressed as a listener or a talker through the IEEE-488 bus, the monochromator
will then be in remote.
To return to RS-232 operation, attach the Model 150-749 remote scan controller or a computer
serial cable to the RS-232 port of the SP-150, then turn the power ON to the SP-150.
The last byte of each command string to the SP-150 must be a <CR> (hex OD). The end
message (EOI line) is accepted but not required. When the SP-150 is a talker, each string
sent back to the controller ends with a <LF> (hex 0A) with the EOI line set. Note: This must be a
carriage return only and not a carriage return and line feed.

18

The SP-150 will issue a service request based upon the contents of the service request mask
which is set by the SET-MASK command and read by the ?MASK command. The bits of the mask
are as follows:
bit 0

previously sent command is complete

bit 1

previous command generated an error

bit 7

previous command generated a response which is
now ready to be sent

The default value for the service request mask is ø, therefore, no service request is generated. Tochange the mask to generate a service request on error or response ready, for example, issue thecommand 130 SET-MASK <CR>. This new value is reset to the default value on reset or power-up.
The SP-150 responds to a serial poll with a status byte that uses the same bit pattern as theservice request mask shown above.
The following pages list five example programs in BASIC using the IEEE-488 option. Examples
one and two are based upon the PC-488 board and software from Capital Equipment Corp. as thecontroller and examples A , B and C are based upon the PC-II A board from National Instruments.
The first part of the code as well as some of the instructions are unique to the individual boards but
are similar to those used with other controllers. Examples 1 and A send the monochromator to253.7 nanometers and then return control to the SP-150 front panel. Examples 2 and B request
the wavelength from the SP-150. These two programs assume the service request mask is
set to the value (130 decimal) so that a service request is generated when the SP-150 has data
to send to the controller. The program starts a serial poll and prints the status byte and datafrom the SP-150. Example C reads the monochromator or spectrograph wavelength with theservice request mask set to the default value of ø.

19

Program Listing
1
10
20
30
50
60
70
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
90
95
97
100

' Example program 1: send monochromator to a wavelength
DEF SEG=&HC400
INITIALIZE=0
TRANSMIT=3 : RECEIVE=6
SEND=9 : SPOLL=12 : ENTER=21
MY.ADDRESS%=21 : LEVEL%=0
CALL INITIALIZE (MY.ADDRESS%,LEVEL%)
MONO%=11
T$="UNT UNL MTA LISTEN"+STR$ (MONO%)CALLTRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status =";STATUS%
T$="DATA '253.7 NM' 13"
CALLTRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status = "; STATUS%
T$="DATA 13 GTL"CALL TRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN STOP
END

1
2
10
20
30
50
60
70
80
81
82
83
90
91
92
115
125
131
133
134
135
136
137
138
140
141
142
147
150
160
170
180
181
182
250

'Example 2: request wavelength, wait for SRQ, serial poll'
service request mask = 130 ( 82 hex )DEF SEG=&HC400
INITIALIZE=0
TRANSMIT=3 : RECEIVE=6
SEND=9 : SPOLL=12 : ENTER=21
MY.ADDRESS%=21 : LEVEL%LEVEL%0
CALL INITIALIZE (MY.ADDRESS%,LEVEL%)
MONO%=11
T$="UNT UNL MTA LISTEN"+STR$(MONO%)CALLTRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT "status =";STATUS%
T$="DATA '?NM' 13"
CALLTRANSMIT (T$.STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status=":STATUS%'--- now, wait for SRQ status bit--IF (INP(&H2BA) AND &H40)=0 THEN 125' -- SRQ has occurred, now read the result
CALL SPOLL (MONO%,POLL%.STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status =";STATUS%
PRINT" serial poll = ";POLL%
T$="UNL MLA"CALLTRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status =":STATUS%
T$="TALK"+STR$ (MONO%)CALL TRANSMIT (T$.STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status=":STATUS%
R$=SPACE$(255)
CALL RECEIVE (R$,LENGTH%,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT "status =";STATUS%
PRINT " data received '";LEFT$(R$,LENGTH%);"'"
T$="UNT UNL MTA LISTEN "+STR$ (MONO%)CALLTRANSMIT (T$,STATUS%)
IF STATUS%<>0 THEN PRINT " status =":STATUS%
END' memory segment for PC<>488' offsets for PC<>488 routines' make PC a controller at address 21' monochromator address is 11' listen: STOP' send grating to 253.7 nm: STOP' go to local' offsets for PC<>488 routines' make PC a controller at address 21' monochromator address is 11' listen: STOP' ask for position: STOP: STOP: STOP: STOP'get up to 255 characters from device: STOP' listen: STOP
20

1
2
3
10
20
30
35
40
45
50
60
65
70
75
78
80
85
90
100
200
205
300
305
500
1
2
3
10
15
17
20
30
35
40
45
50
60
65
70
113
116
118
125
130
140
145
150
160
170
200
205
300
305
500

CLEAR ,59000! : IBINIT1=59000! : IBINIT2=IBINIT1+3 : BLOAD "bib.m", IBINIT1
CALL IBINIT1 (IBFIND,IBTRG,IBCLR,IBPCT,IBSIC,IBLOC,IBPPC,IBBNA,IBONL,IBRSC,IB
SRE,IBRSV,IBPAD,IBSAD,IBIST,IBDMA,IBEOS,IBTMO,IBEOT,IBRDF,IBWRTF,IBTRAP)CALL IBINIT2 (IBGTS,IBCAC,IBWAIT,IBPOKE,IBWRT,IBWRTA,IBCMD,IBCMDA,IBRD,IBRDA,
IBSTOP,IBRPP,IBRSP,IBDIAG,IBXTRC,IBRDI,IBWRTI,IBRDIA,IBWRTIA,IBSTA%,IBERR%,IBCNT%)
REM Example A: send monochromator to a wavelength
UDNAME$="SP275"
CALL IBFIND (UDNAME$, UD%)
REM check for error on ibfind call
IF UD% < 0 THEN GOTO 200
REM send command to sp275
WRT$="253.7 nm" + CHR$ ($HD)
CALL IBWRT (UD%,WRT$)
REM check for error on function callIF IBSTA% < 0 THEN GOTO 300
REM go to local at monochromator
FOR I=1 TO 100 : NEXT I
CALL IBLOC (UD%)
REM check for error on function callIF IBSTA% < 0 THEN GOTO 300
GOTO 500
REM ibfind error
PRINT "ibfind error": STOP
REM function call error
PRINT "gpib function call error" : STOPEND
CLEAR ,59000! : IBINIT1=59000! : IBINIT2=IBINIT1+3 : BLOAD "bib.m", IBINIT1
CALL IBINIT1 (IBFIND,IBTRG,IBCLR,IBPCT,IBSIC,IBLOC,IBPPC,IBBNA,IBONL,IBRSC,IBSRE,IBRSV,IBPAD,IBSAD,IBIST,IBDMA,IBEOS,IBTMO,IBEOT,IBRDF,IBWRTF,IBTRAP)CALL IBINIT2 (IBGTS,IBCAC,IBWAIT,IBPOKE,IBWRT,IBWRTA,IBCMD,IBCMDA,IBRD,IBRDA,
IBSTOP,IBRPP,IBRSP,IBDIAG,IBXTRC,IBRDI,IBWRTI,IBRDIA,IBWRTIA,IBSTA%,IBERR%,IBCNT%)
REM Example B: request wavelength, wait for data ready, read wavelength
REM using National PCIIA board with EOS byte = hex 0A
REM Service request mask = 0
UDNAME$="SP275"
CALL IBFIND (UDNAME$,UD%)
REM check for error on ibfind call
IF UD% < 0 THEN GOTO 200
REM send command to sp275
WRT$= "?NM " + CHR$(&HD)
CALL IBWRT (UD%,WRT$)
REM check for error on function call
IB IBSTA% < 0 THEN GOTO 300
REM PRINT "IBSTA% = "; IBSTA%CALL IBRSP (UD%,SPR%)
IF ( (SPR% AND 129) <> 129 ) THEN 116
PRINT "SPR = "; SPR%
RD$=SPACE$(255)
CALL IBRD (UD%,RD$)IF IBSTA% < 0 THEN GOTO 300
PRINT " data received ="; LEFT$(RD$,IBCNT%);REM PRINT " status = "; IBSTA%
GOTO 500
REM ibfind error
PRINT "ibfind error": STOP
REM function call error
PRINT "goib function call error" : STOP
END

21

1
2
3

10
15
17
20
30
35
40
45
50
60
65
70
75
90
100
105
110
113
116
117
120
130
140
145
150
160
170
200
205
300
305
500

CLEAR ,59000! : IBINIT1=59000! : IBINIT2=IBINIT1+3 : BLOAD "bib.m",IBINIT1
CALL IBINIT1 (IBFIND,IBTRG,IBCLR,IBPCT,IBSIC,IBLOC,IBPPC,IBBNA,IBONL,IBRSC,IBSRE,IBRSV,IBPAD,IBSAD,IBIST,IBDMA,IBEOS,IBTMO,IBEOT,IBRDF,IBWRTF,IBTRAP)CALL IBINIT2 (IBGTS,IBCAC,IBWAIT,IBPOKE,IBWRT,IBWRTA,IBCMD,IBCMDA,IBRD,IBRDA,
IBSTOP,IBRPP,IBRSP,IBDIAG,IBXTRC,IBRDI,IBWRTI,IBRDIA,IBWRTIA,IBSTA%,IBERR%,IBCNT%)REM Example C: request wavelength, do serial poll, read wavelelngth
REM using National PCIIA board with EOS byte = hex 0A
REM Service request mask = 130 ( 82 hex )UDNAME$="SP275"
CALL IBFIND (UDNAME$,UD%)
REM check for error on ibfind call
IF UD% < 0 THEN GOTO 200
REM send command to sp275
WRT$= "?NM " + CHR$(&HD)
CALL IBWRT (UD%,WRT$)
REM check for error on fucntion callIF IBSTA% < 0 THEN GOTO 300
REM wait for RQS
MASK%=&H4800
Call IBWAIT (UD%,MASK%)
REM check for error or timeout
IF (IBSTA% AND &HC000) <> 0 THEN GOTO 300
REM PRINT "IBSTA% = "; IBSTA%CALL IBRSP (UD%,SPR%)PRINT "SPR = "; SPR%
REM read wavelength from monochromator
RD$=SPACE$(255)
CALL IBRD (UD%,RD$)IF IBSTA% <0 THEN GOTO 300
PRINT " data received = "; LEFT$(RD$,IBCNT%);REM PRINT " status = "; IBSTA%
GOTO 500
REM ibfind error
PRINT "ibfind error": STOP
REM function call error
PRINT "gpib function call error" : STOP
END

22

Section IV-E: Focusing and Alignment of Array Detectors
With the CCD or diode array properly mounted to the SP-150 using the procedure detailedin Section III-E, use the following procedure to align and focus the array detector to the SP-150
optical system. We assume that the array detection system is running for the following procedure.
1. Mount a light source such as a mercury pen-ray type to the entrance slit of the
SP-150. Princeton Instruments offers a standard mercury lamp, Model MS-416, designed
for this purpose. Any light source with line output can be used. If there are no “line” sources
available, it is possible to use a broadband source such a tungsten for the alignment. If
this is the case, use only a wavelength setting of 0.0nm for alignment purposes.
2. With the SP-150 properly connected to a controller (computer or Model 150-749 remotescan controller), turn the power ON and move the spectrograph to a wavelength of
435.8nm if using a mercury lamp, or 0.0 for a broadband source, or another wavelength
corresponding to a spectrum produced by a different “line” source.
If the SP-150 is not connected to a controller, please return to Section III-B or
III-C. If you are unfamiliar with operation of the SP-150, refer to Section IV-B
or IV-C.

3. With the array detector operating, check the image of the light source if running in an
imaging mode with a CCD. Otherwise check the line intensity and shape.
4. Loosen the split clamp and slowly move thearray detector IN or OUT until sharpest imageis achieved, or sharpest line is achieved.
5. Move the focus-stop screw until it just contacts
the array detector mounting flange. This
enables you to rotate the detector withoutchanging the focus position.

Split Clamp

6. When best focus is achieved, tighten the split
clamp to secure the detector.
7. At this time the array detector is aligned to the
SP-150 for best spectral resolution. The
light source can be remove if desired, andreplaced by fiber optics or other light sources.

Focus Stop

8. If fibers or other imaging input optics are used to bring light into the SP-150, they
will require adjustment along the optical axis to achieve best vertical image quality.

23Section IV-F:

Converting the SP-150 from Monochromator toSpectrograph, or Spectrograph to Monochromator

Monochromator to Spectrograph: This procedure requires that you have the monochromator
version, Model SP-150-M, plus the array detector mounting flange (Model SP-150-MS includes
these items).

Removal of the 8-32 Screws Securing theExit Slit to the SP-150 Housing

Sliding the Exit Slit, With Sliding Tube,
Out of the SP-150 Housing

1.

Loosen the split clamp.

2.

Remove the four (4) 8-32 socket head cap screws (SHCS) which secure the exit slit to
the SP-150 housing. Details of the slit assemblies can be found in the drawing
located in the Appendices Section.

3.

Gently slide the slit assembly out of the SP-150 housing and store in a clean,
dry area. The exit slit assemblies are attached to a sliding tube which is removed
along with the slit body.

4.

Slide the array detector mounting flange
into the SP-150 housing so thatit rests against the housing. It may benecessary to turn the focus-stop screw
counter clockwise so that it does notinterfere with the array detector mounting
flange.

5.

The SP-150 has now been
converted from monochromator tospectrograph.

`

6.

Array Detector Mounting Flange
Mounted in Place of the Exit Slit

Refer to Sections III-E “Mounting Array
Detectors...”, and IV-E “Focus and Alignment...”for actual mounting, alignment, and focus of array detectors.

24

Spectrograph to Monochromator: This procedure requires that you have the spectrographversion, Model SP-150-S, plus the Model 150-716-2 exit slit assembly (SP-150-MS includes these
items).
1.
Loosen the split clamp and gently slide
the array detector mounting flange outof the SP-150 housing.
2.

Remove the array detector if attached,then store the array detector mounting
flange in a clean, dry place.

3.

Locate the Model 150-716-2 exit slit
assembly, then gently slide it into the
SP-150 housing until it rests against
Sliding the Array Detector Mounting Flange
the housing. Exit slit assemblies
Out of the SP-150 Housing
are attached to a sliding tube to fit the
SP-150 housing with split clamp arrangement.

4.

Using four (4) 8-32 socket head cap screws (SHCS), secure the slit assembly against
the SP-150 housing. There are four (4) tapped holes in the SP-150 housing
to facilitate mounting the exit slit. Tightening the split clamp assembly is not crucial,
but good practice.

Note: The slit aperture is slightly offset in the slit assembly. Orientate it so that the aperture is on
the upper side when properly mounted. On the bilateral slits, the micrometer points upward. On the
fixed slit assemblies you should be able to read the slit width marking (it will be upright). Refer tothe drawing in the appendices section of this manual for correct orientation if necessary.
5.

The SP-150 has now been converted from spectrograph to monochromator .

Sliding the Exit Slit Assembly, With Sliding
Tube, Into the SP-150 Housing

Securing the Exit Slit Assembly to the
Housing Using Four (4) 8-32 Screws

25Section IV-G: Interchanging Grating Turrets
Caution: Optical surfaces of gratings and mirrors are extremely delicate andcan be permanently damaged by contact with anything. Do not touch, talk, or
breathe on or over the gratings, or optical surfaces inside the SP-150.
General: Every SP-150 is supplied with kinematically mounted grating turrets to permit easy
removal and interchanging of grating turrets without re-alignment of the instrument. To interchangeturrets, use the following procedure:
1. Locate the container holding the new turret.
Knurled Knob

2. Move the SP-150 to a wavelengthof 0.0nm for grating number one, or thelowest grating number on the turret installed.

TurretHolder

3. Remove the SP-150 cover. Refer tothe caution above.
4. Turrets are held in position by a single screw
with a knurled knob located at the top of theturret (see picture). Turn the knurled screw ina counter clockwise direction until it disengages
from the kinematic mount. The screw is springloaded and captive in the turret.

Dual Grating Turret Mounted
Inside the SP-150

5. Lift the grating turret straight out of the housing, taking great care not to allow anything to
make contact with the gratings. Grasp the screw and/or top portion of the grating turretwhen handling the grating turrets.
6. Place the removed grating turret on a clean, dry surface.
7. Remove the cover from the grating turret storage container. Remove the grating turretfrom the storage by loosening the knurled screw. This is similar to Step 4 above.
8. With extreme care, place the new grating turret on the kinematic mount inside the SP-150
housing. The kinematic mount only will accept the turret in one orientation. Normally thiswill be when the lowest grating number is facing the concave mirrors inside the housing.
(Remember that you previously scanned to 0.0nm for the lowest grating number.)
9. Using your index finger and thumb, simultaneously push straight down and turn theknurled screw clockwise to engage the kinematic mount. When the screw engages thetapped hole, continue to turn it clockwise until the turret is secured. Don’t over-tighten!
10. Replace and secure the SP-150 cover. Place the previously removed grating
turret in the turret storage container, and secure it using the knurled screw.
11. At this point you must tell the SP-150 what turret is currently installed, so that the correct
calibration information can be used for those specific gratings. Refer to26
Section IV-B or IV-C to complete the turret installation procedure.

Section V. Appendices and Schematic Drawings
Appendix A: Selecting Alternate Start-Up Parameters
The following are the Start-Up parameters and their default values:
GRATING#1

WAVELENGTH

0.0 nmSCAN SPEED

100.0 nm/min

Each of the above may be changed through the RS-232 port or IEEE-488 port using the following
commands. These values are stored in non-volatile memory and will be in effect after the next
power-up.

INIT-GRATING

Selects which of the two gratings on the installed turret the
SP-150 will go to after finding 0.0 nm on the first grating.
(e.g. 2 INIT-GRATING selects the second grating as the default)

INIT-WAVELENGTH

Sets an initial wavelength for the SP-150 after initialization.
(e.g. 435.84 INIT-WAVELENGTH Notice that two digits after the decimal
point are required)

INIT-SRATE

Sets an initial scan rate for the SP-150.
(e.g. 500.00 INIT-SRATE Notice that two digits after the decimal point
are required)

The following command is used to return all grating parameters and start-up parameters to theoriginal factory settings.
RESTORE-FACTORY-SETTINGS
Note that any gratings installed at a later date (after initially receiving the SP-150) will beerased from memory using this “restore command”.

27Appendix B

Cable Connection Diagrams:
SP-150 Monochromators & Spectrographs
To Various Computers
1

1

6

6
2
7
3

2
7
3
8
4
9
5

SP-150 to
PC-AT or Compatible

8
4
9
5

DB9P
MALE
1
14
2
15
3
16
4
17
5
18
6
19
7

1
6

SP-150 to PC-XT
or Terminal

2
7
3
8

20
8
21
9
22
10
23
11
24
12
25
13

4
9
5

DB9P
MALE

1

1

6

2

2
7
3
8

3

SP-150 to
Macintosh Computer(Modem or Printer Port)

4
5

4
9
5

6
7
8

DB9P
MALE

8 PIN DIN

28

Appendix D:

Certification
Princeton Instruments certifies that this instrument was thoroughly tested
and inspected and found to meet the specifications furnished by Princeton Instruments
when it was shipped from the factory.

Warranty
Princeton Instruments instruments and accessories are warranted for aperiod of one full year from date of delivery to be free from defects in material andand to conform to the specifications furnished by Princeton Instruments. The company's
obligation under this warranty is limited to servicing or adjusting an instrument returned to
the factory, prepaid, and to repairing or replacing at the factory any part or parts thereof.
All purchased items carry the original manufacturers warranty.
Princeton Instruments shall not be liable for consequential damages resulting from
accident, alteration, misuse, improper installation, operation on low or excessive voltages
or any use in violation of the operating instructions furnished by Princeton Instruments.
If any defect appears within the warranty period, the purchaser shall promptly notify
Princeton Instruments. No material will be accepted for repair or replacement without
prior authorization from Princeton Instruments. Upon such authorization and in accordancewith instructions of Princeton Instruments, parts, materials or equipment for which repair or
replacement is requested shall be returned to Princeton Instruments for examination, withshipping charges prepaid by the purchaser. Final determination as to whether a product orpart is actually defective rests with Princeton Instruments.
In such cases where necessary repairs are not covered by this warranty, an estimate of
repair charges will be submitted to the purchaser before servicing the equipment.
Princeton Instruments reserves the right to make changes or improvements uponits products without imposing any obligations upon itself to install the same upon its
products previously manufactured.
This warranty is expressly in lieu of all other obligations or liabilities on the part ofPrinceton Instruments, and Princeton Instruments neither assumes, nor authorizes anyother person to assume for them, other obligations or liability in connection with the saleof equipment manufactured by Princeton Instruments.

37

Appendix E:
Utility Menu Functions:
General: The UTILIT function contains routines for grating changes, GPIB address changes,
restoring factory settings, plus a memory check routine. The UTILIT function is only available on
the optional Model 150-749 remote scan controller. These functions are not normally used in day
to day operation of the SP-150.
Accessing the ULTILIT Functions:With the controller connected to the SP-150, turn the power ON to both components.
After the SP-150 initializes, the following menu should be displayed: Press the function
key below UTILIT to select the utilities functions.
{ HOME }
4:
3:
2:
1:
SP150

UTILIT

If the above menu does not appear (for example, if the controller was operated in the calculatormode), press the RIGHT FUNCTION KEY (➦), followed by the LIBRARY key, then select SP150.
When the above menu is displayed, press the white key below the UTILIT function to access theutilities. The following menu will be shown:

INST

CKSU

GPIB

INIT

RESTO

QUIT

INST
Pressing the function key below the INST label will cause the following install menu to be displayed:
1
2
3
4
5
6
#1

1200 G/MM
300G/MMNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLED
1200G/MM

GRAT

GROV

BLZ = 500NM
BLZ = 500NM

BLZ = non

BLAZE

HOL
38

{ HOME }Install Grating:Enter NumberEnter the desired grating number (1-6) and press the enter key. (Note that Grating #3 is the firstgrating on the second turret and grating #6 is the second grating on the third turret, etc.) The
INSTALL menu will be displayed again with the selected grating number at the lower left. Pressthe function key below GROV to enter the desired groove spacing in grooves / mm using the keypad
and enter key as above. Set the blaze wavelength label by pressing the function key below HOL if
the grating is holographic or by pressing the function key below BLAZE if the grating is ruled. Enterthe desired blaze wavelength as above. To complete the installation, press the NXT key on the rightside of the keypad.
The following menu will be displayed:
1
2
3
4
5
6
#3

1200 G/MM
300G/MMNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLEDNOT INSTALLED
600G/MMUNDONE

BLZ = 500NM
BLZ = 500NM

BLZ = 750
EXIT

Select DONE to install the grating as displayed on the line directly above the labels. Select UN to
un-install the grating specified on the line directly above the labels. Select EXIT to return to theutilities menu if neither of these selections were made. Selecting INST from the utilities menu
followed by the NXT key and then selecting EXIT allows checking the gratings installed without
making any changes.
CKSU
Pressing the function key below CKSU provides a memory check of the SP-150. A number will be
displayed in the lower left corner of the display indicating the checksum of the memory in the
SP-150. This number should be the same each time this function is executed indicating memory is
operating correctly. This number is displayed for approximately 3 seconds.
INIT
Pressing the function key below INIT causes the SP-150 to go through a complete installation.
Operationally, this is the same as turning off the power and turning it on again. At the completion of
the initialization, the Acton sign on message will be displayed followed by “OK”. If any
errors in initialization were found, an error message will be displayed.
39

GPIB
Pressing the function key below GPIB causes the GPIB or IEEE-488 device address to be
displayed. A new address can be entered, or pressing ENTER alone will leave the addressunchanged. Valid addresses are 1 - 30.

RESTO
Pressing the function key below RESTO causes the following menu to be displayed:

Restore Factory
Settings
Proceed?
YES

NO

Selecting YES will restore all grating parameters and default initialization settings to the original
factory settings. This process takes approximately 20 seconds. Note that any gratings that were
installed since receiving the SP-150 will be eliminated from memory and must be re-installed.
Selecting NO will make no changes to memory.
Select QUIT to return to the LIBRARY MENU.

40

1