Stanford Research SR830
The Stanford Research SR830 Lock-In Amplifier is a cutting-edge tool designed for precise signal measurement and analysis, displaying both magnitude and phase simultaneously. Leveraging advanced digital signal processing (DSP) technology, the SR830 replaces traditional demodulators, output filters, and amplifiers found in conventional lock-ins, delivering exceptional performance in a compact, user-friendly unit.
With an impressive operating range of 1 MHz to 102 kHz and a dynamic reserve of 100 dB, the SR830 assures you of accurate and reliable measurements across various applications. Its differential inputs come with a remarkably low input noise of 6 nV/√Hz and an input impedance of 10 MΩ, making it ideal for sensitive measurements. Additionally, it offers a minimum full-scale input voltage sensitivity as low as 2 nV. For current measurements, the input can be configured with selectable gains of 106 and 108 V/A.
The SR830's architecture eliminates the need for conventional tracking band-pass filters, reducing the introduction of noise, amplitude and phase errors, and drift. This innovation is made possible through its digital demodulation technique that samples the input signal with a high-precision A/D converter, yielding more than 100 dB of true dynamic reserve without prefiltering issues associated with analog instruments.
Equipped with an array of time constants ranging from 10 µsec to 30,000 s, the SR830 also features options for synchronous filters to notch out reference frequency harmonics for low-frequency measurements below 200 Hz. An advanced DSP calculation replaces traditional analog phase-shifting circuits, allowing phase measurements with a fine resolution of 0.01° and orthogonal X and Y outputs with accuracy up to 0.001°.
Incorporating user-friendly auto-functions, the SR830 optimizes parameters like gain, phase, offset, and dynamic reserve at the touch of a button. The offset function enables quick nulling of the input signal, while an expand feature enhances resolution by magnifying signal fluctuations up to 100×. Notably, the device can now detect any harmonic (2F, 3F, ... nF) up to 102 kHz, enhancing measurement versatility without changing the reference frequency.
The dual user-defined outputs allow real-time measurements of varied parameters such as X, R, or auxiliary voltage ratios, with both X and Y analog outputs (located on the rear panel) updated at 256 kHz. Additional functionality is provided through four auxiliary inputs compatible with 16-bit ADCs for normalization tasks, and four programmable outputs with a range of -10.5 V to +10.5 V manageable via front panel controls or computer interfaces.
The SR830 is designed with two independent 16,000 point buffers for simultaneous data recording, facilitating efficient data transfer using standard computer interfaces. An external trigger input further aids in synchronizing the data collection process.
Setting up the SR830 is straightforward, as all functions can be adjusted from the intuitive front-panel keypad, complemented by a convenient spin knob for quick parameter modifications. Users can store up to nine unique configurations in non-volatile RAM for expedient instrument setup, ensuring fast response in dynamic environments. Connectivity is seamless with both standard RS-232 and GPIB interfaces for effective communication with computers and remote control capabilities.
Features of the SRS SR830 include: