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Operator's Manual
Copyright 1997-2011 Gamry Instruments, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Revision 5.2
February 28, 2011
Limited Warranty
Gamry Instruments, Inc., warrants to the original user of this product that it shall be free of defects resulting
from faulty manufacture of the product or its components for a period of two years from the date of shipment.
Gamry Instruments, Inc., makes no warranties regarding either the satisfactory performance of the Series G or
the fitness of the instrument for any particular purpose. The remedy for breach of this Limited Warranty shall
be limited solely to repair or replacement, as determined by Gamry Instruments, Inc., and shall not include
other damages.
Gamry Instruments, Inc., reserves the right to make revisions to the Series G at any time without incurring any
obligation to install same on instruments previously purchased. All instrument specifications are subject to
change without notice.
There are no warranties which extend beyond the description herein. This warranty is in lieu of, and
excludes any and all other warranties or representations, expressed, implied or statutory, including
merchantability and fitness, as well as any and all other obligations or liabilities of Gamry Instruments,
Inc., including but not limited to, special or consequential damages.
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have others which vary from state to state.
Some states do not allow for the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages.
No person, firm, or corporation is authorized to assume for Gamry Instruments, Inc., any additional obligation
or liability not expressly provided herein except in writing duly executed by an officer of Gamry Instruments,
Inc.
ii
Disclaimers
Gamry Instruments, Inc., cannot guarantee that the Series G Potentiostat will work with all computer systems,
operating systems, or third party expansion cards and peripherals.
The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate as of the time of
printing. However, Gamry Instruments, Inc., assumes no responsibility for errors that might appear.
iii
Fax
(215) 682-9331
techsupport@gamry.com
iv
Table of Contents
Limited Warranty .................................................................................................................... ii
Disclaimers ............................................................................................................................. iii
Copyrights and Trademarks ..................................................................................................... iii
If You Have Problems ............................................................................................................. iv
Chapter 1 -- Introduction ........................................................................................................ 1-1
About This Manual..................................................................................................... 1-1
CE Compliance Required for Sale in Europe ............................................................... 1-1
About the Series G ..................................................................................................... 1-2
Potentiostat Schematic Diagram ................................................................................. 1-3
Notational Conventions.............................................................................................. 1-5
Chapter 2 -- Installation ......................................................................................................... 2-1
Nomenclature Series G versus PCI4.......................................................................... 2-1
Computer Requirements ............................................................................................ 2-1
PCI Compatibility....................................................................................................... 2-2
Multiple Potentiostat Systems ..................................................................................... 2-2
Card Identification ..................................................................................................... 2-2
Positional Conventions ............................................................................................... 2-2
Handling the Cards .................................................................................................... 2-3
Plug & Play System Configuration............................................................................... 2-3
Installing the Cards in Your Computer......................................................................... 2-4
Connecting the Interconnection Ribbon Cable............................................................ 2-4
Connect Power to the Cards....................................................................................... 2-4
Cell Cable Installation................................................................................................. 2-5
1st Time Device Installation in Windows ..................................................................... 2-5
Multiple Potentiostat Systems ..................................................................................... 2-9
Device Manager......................................................................................................... 2-10
Authorization Codes and Label................................................................................... 2-11
Application Software Installation and System Checkout............................................... 2-11
Calibration................................................................................................................. 2-12
Chapter 3 -- Cell Cable Connections ...................................................................................... 3-1
Cell Indicator ............................................................................................................. 3-1
Normal Cell Connections ........................................................................................... 3-1
ZRA Mode Cell Connections ...................................................................................... 3-2
Membrane Cell Connections ...................................................................................... 3-3
Chapter 4 Configuration of Master/Serf Systems................................................................... 4-1
Master/Serf Mode Defined ......................................................................................... 4-1
MultEchem Systems Defined ...................................................................................... 4-1
Clocking in Master/Slave EIS Systems .......................................................................... 4-1
Master/Serf Cable....................................................................................................... 4-2
Procedure For Clock Synchronization ......................................................................... 4-2
Connections For Data Acquisition Synchronization ..................................................... 4-3
Chapter 5 -- Stability in Potentiostat Mode ............................................................................. 5-1
Capacitive Cells and Stability...................................................................................... 5-1
Improving Potentiostat Stability .................................................................................. 5-2
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals............................................................................. 6-1
Overview................................................................................................................... 6-1
Measurement System Model and Physical Limitations................................................. 6-1
Johnson Noise in Zcell .................................................................................. 6-2
Finite Input Capacitance ............................................................................... 6-3
Chapter 1 -- Introduction
1-1
Its improved offset circuitry lowers drift in measured currents and voltages.
New circuitry for Master/Slave operation improves system performance when used in a
synchronized multi-potentiostat system.
Analog I/O has been made more useful and easier to use.
A new status LED on the controller card tell gives valuable information about instrument
connections.
Many portions of Gamrys low noise circuitry have been improved to have even lower noise.
Like its predecessors, the Series G is a research grade electrochemical instrument compact enough to fit inside
a desktop computer. It can operate as a potentiostat, a galvanostat, or a ZRA (zero resistance ammeter).
The Series G 300 and Series G 750 are two members of Gamry Instruments PCI4 Potentiostat family. They
share a number of characteristics with the other members of this family, especially in the areas of signal
generation and signal preconditioning prior to A/D conversion.
The Series G features include 9 decade current auto-ranging, electrical isolation from earth ground, current
interrupt iR compensation, and extensive filtering. A sine wave generator on the Series G allows its use for
impedance measurements at frequencies up to 300 kHz.
The Series G consists of two printed circuit cards that install directly into a computer. Each card requires one
expansion slot in an AT compatible computer. The cards are interconnected by one ribbon cable. Depending
on the number of available slots, up to eight Series G card sets can be installed in one computer.
The first card is called the Potentiostat Card. It contains the analog potentiostat circuitry and its associated
isolated power supply. This card is not connected to the computer's bus. It communicates with the computer
over serial lines isolated by digital isolators (located on the other card). The Potentiostat card can be switched
to act as a high performance Galvanostat or as a ZRA (Zero Resistance Ammeter).
The second printed circuit card will be referred to as the Controller Card. It contains a PCI bus interface,
isolated serial transfer logic, an isolated power supply, a signal generator, and a high performance measurement
system.
The PCI bus interface communicates with most of the Series G circuitry using isolated serial lines. There is
no ground connection between the PCI bus circuitry and the analog circuits in the Series G.
Each card contains an isolated DC/DC converter. These power supplies convert the computers 12 volt
supply into the voltages needed to power their own circuitry.
The standard "DC" signal generator on the Controller Card uses two 16 bit D/A converters. A DDS sine
wave generator that generates low distortion sine waves is also built into the controller.
1-2
The Controller Card measurement circuitry includes signal filtering, offset, and switchable gain on two
independent measurement channels. The output of these channels is measured using a 16 bit A/D
converter.
1-3
Figure 1-1
Series G Analog Circuits in Potentiostat Mode
1-4
The circuits on the right side of the schematic are on the Potentiostat card and those on the left are on
the Controller Card. The dotted line shows the separation between the two portions of the
instrument. The analog signals sent between the portions are received in differential amplifiers to
eliminate grounding problems.
The labels CE , RE and WE stand for counter electrode, reference electrode and working electrode
respectively.
There are two 16 bit D/A converters generating the computer controlled portion of the applied cell
voltage.
The I/E converter section shows a series resistor that measures the cell current. The circuit actually
uses eight decade resistors that can be switched in under computer control.
The cell switch is actually two switches in series - a relay for low leakage and a FET switch for fast
response.
Two capacitors can be switched across the I/E converter resistor. These capacitors are used for
filtering and stability compensation.
The control amplifier is shown at the upper right side of the schematic. Compensation capacitors can
be switched across the control amplifier to adjust its bandwidth and improve potentiostat stability.
Some analog circuits, including overload detection circuitry, positive feedback IR compensation, the
auxiliary D/A converter, power circuits, and data acquisition controls are not shown.
All digital circuits, including the AT bus interface, timers, state machines, opto-couplers, and digital I/O
are not shown.
Timing for both data acquisition and D/A update in the signal generator is controlled by a state
machine working with a crystal oscillator generated clock. A busy processor in the computer cannot
create timing jitter.
Notational Conventions
In order to make this manual more readable we have adopted some notational conventions. These are used
throughout this manual and all other Gamry Instruments manuals.
Numbered lists. A numbered list is reserved for step by step procedures, with the steps always
performed sequentially.
Bulleted List. The items in a bulleted list, such as this one, are grouped together because they
represent similar items. The order of items in the list is not critical.
File names and folders. Inside paragraphs, references to computer files and Windows folders will be
capitalized and placed within quotes, for example: and C:\FRAMEWORK\FRAMEWORK.EXE" and
WIN.INI".
1-5
1-6
Chapter 2 -- Installation
A Series G Potentiostat is only useful after it has been installed in a Windows compatible computer.
If you purchase a Series G in a system that includes both a computer and an applications software package,
Gamry Instruments, Inc. will install the Series G (and the system software) to produce a "turn-key" system. You
may ignore this chapter if you have purchased a turn-key system.
If you buy your own computer, add a Series G to an existing system, or move an old Series G to a new
computer, you need to know how to install a Series G into a computer. Read on.
Software installation is discussed in the Installation Manual for each software package. It will not be discussed
here.
Computer Requirements
Before you install a Series G into your own computer you must make sure that your computer meets these
simple requirements.
A computer based on one of the Pentium family of Intel microprocessors or a 100% compatible
processor from another vendor.
One of the following Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2, Windows Vista,
or 7 is required. (See Gamrys website www.gamry.com if you have a newer Windows
editionedition of Windows).
Two unobstructed, full height (11 cm) PCI expansion slots for each Series G card set. Each slot must
be capable of accepting a 26 cm long (10 inch) card.
Up to 40 watts of power supply capacity for each Series G Card Set. This is in addition to the power
normally drawn by your computer and its standard peripherals.
One unused disk drive power connector. This connector, and a standard power splitter cable, is used
to power the Series G cards.
Most of the Series Gs power is drawn from the computer's +12 volt and +5 volt supplies. However, the Series
G also requires a small amount (< 50 mA) of current taken from the computers 12 volt supply.
Gamry's Windows application software packages may impose additional, more stringent requirements.
2-1
PCI Compatibility
The Series G has been designed for compatibility with Revision 2.2 of the PCI Specification. As described in
that specification, it is a universal card, able to operate with either 3.3 volt and 5.0 volt PCI signaling levels.
The Series G does not draw power from the 3.3 volt supply pins on the PCI bus connector. It can therefore
operate with older computers that did not provide 3.3 volts on the PCI bus. It should operate with all PCI
computers compliant with Revision 2.0 and higher of the PCI Specification.
Card Identification
A Series G Potentiostat consists of two full height, 26 cm long PCI compatible printed circuit boards. When
you look at your Series G cards, you will notice that a large portion of one card is covered with a large black
shield. This card is the Series G Potentiostat Card. The card without the shield is referred to as the Series G
Controller Card.
Positional Conventions
Throughout this manual, reference will be made to positions on the Series G cards. In order to avoid confusion,
we will define some conventions that describe positions on these cards.
Assume:
The card edge (where the card plugs into the computer) is facing you.
2-2
Figure 2-1
Positional Conventions
Top
Left
Right
Bottom
The cards are shipped in anti-static bags. Leave them in these bags until you need to install or
reconfigure them.
If you need to leave a card out of its anti-static bag, lay the anti-static bag on a flat surface, then lay
the card on top of the bag.
Prior to handling the cards, you should momentarily ground yourself to eliminate any static charges
on your body. A good way to accomplish this is to turn off your computer, then lightly touch your
finger to an unpainted portion of the computer's metal chassis.
Save the anti-static bags. You must use them if the cards are shipped while not installed in a
computer. This includes occasions when the cards must be returned to Gamry Instruments, Inc. for
repair.
2-3
2.
Following your computer manufacturer's instructions, open up the computer to expose its expansion
card slots.
3.
Locate an empty expansion slot that has a PCI interface. The slot must be at least 26 cm long.
If necessary, remove the retaining screw and slot cover (the 'L' shaped metal bracket) for this slot.
Save the screw for use later.
4.
Locate a second empty slot that is within 15 cm of the first. You may have to move some of your
existing cards to get two suitable slots.
Again, remove the retaining screw and slot cover, saving the screw for use later.
5.
6.
Plug this card into one slot. Make sure the card seats securely in the edge card connector on the
motherboard. Secure the card in the slot using the screw from Step 3.
NOTE: All the gold fingers on the lower edge on this card must be in a motherboard edge connector.
7.
Repeat steps 5 and 6 with the second card, locating it in the second slot.
8.
2-4
2) The larger connector on this cable mates with a disk drive power cable from the PCs power
supply. Locate an unused computer power cable and connect it to the Series G power cable.
3) Locate the power input connector on the upper left side on the Series G Controller card. Plug
one of the smaller sockets on the power cable into this power input.
Note that the power cables can only mate in one direction. If the power cable will not plug into
the Series G card, rotate the cable 180
4) Locate the power input connector on the upper right side on the Series G Potentiostat card. Plug
one of the smaller sockets on the power cable into this power input.
Note that the power cables can only mate in one direction. If the power cable will not plug into
the Series G card, rotate the cable 180.
5) Carefully double check your work.
Once this step is completed you may close up the computer.
2-5
Figure 2 - 2
Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard
As shown in this Figure, do not choose to let Windows Update find the device driver that you need. The
Windows Update web site has no knowledge of the Gamry Instruments Series G.
Make sure you select No, not this time. After you select, Next, you should see a screen that looks like this:
2-6
Figure 2-3
Install the Software Automatically
All Gamry device drivers are pre-installed to your machine during the software installation process. Select
Install the software automatically, then select Next.
These messages will also be seen when a Series G instrument is moved to a new PCI slot. In this case, you can
select Install the software automatically even if you do not have the Gamry Instruments CD. The driver that
was previously installed on your computers disk drive will be used.
The Windows Device Manger will locate and install the required files, which are already on your system.
Your Gamry Software CD is not required at this point. However, if you do not have your Gamry Software CD or
lose the CD at any point, contact Gamry Instruments, or your local Gamry Sales representative for assistance.
Once the drivers and associated support files have to copied to your system, you should see another screen that
looks like this:
2-7
Figure 2-4
Install the Software Automatically
As displayed in Figure 2-4, you enter a friendly name for your Series G, as well as any Authorization Codes you
received with your instrumentation. The authorization codes are 10 digit codes that allow different Gamry
application software to be used with your Series G. If you cannot locate your authorization codes, please
contact Gamry Instruments or your local Gamry Sales representative for assistance.
To enter an authorization code, simply click on the Add button. A dialog box will appear as shown in Figure
2-5. You enter the package name, like EIS300, followed by the 10 digit authorization code.
Figure 2-5
Enter an Authorization Code
2-8
2-9
Device Manager
If you wish to make changes to the configuration of your Series G after it has already been installed, you must
use the Windows Device Manager. Steps for getting to the Device Manager can vary by operating system, so
check your operating systems online help for more specific information on running the Windows Device
Manager.
Under Windows XP, right clicking on the My Computer icon and selecting Properties brings up the System
Properties dialog box. Select the Hardware Tab and then click on the Device Manager button. This should
bring up the Device Manager screen. Clicking on the + sign next to Gamry Instruments Devices, should
expand the tree view to give you a screen that looks similar to the following figure:
Figure 2-6
Device Manager Window
You can now right click on any of the Devices listed under Gamry Instruments Devices and select Properties
to look at or change its configuration.
Note that the Series G is sufficiently similar to the PCI4 that it can share driver information.
2-10
Figure 2-7
Device Settings Tab
You can enter or edit any of the authorization codes or Label for the device by clicking on the appropriate edit
box and entering the information. When you are finished making changes press OK to store the changes.
2-11
You must calibrate each potentiostat in your system before you run any experiments or perform any of Gamrys
System Checkout procedures.
After calibration, you should also perform the system checkout procedures for each application. Follow the
instructions in each application's Installation Manual. The system checkout procedures check for correct
hardware and software installation. They are not a comprehensive test of each facet of system operation.
Calibration
You must calibrate each Series G Potentiostat installed in your system. A calibration script is provided with the
Gamry Framework. The Installation Manual for every major application package contains instructions for
calibration using this script.
CAUTION: Series G calibration calls for an external resistive dummy cell. Every Series G is
shipped with a Universal Dummy Cell 4 which includes a 2 k
, 0.05% accurate resistor in the
position marked Calibration. After calibration, please place this dummy cell in a safe place
where you can find it if your unit requires recalibration.
If you do need to recalibrate and you cannot find the resistor shipped to you, you can substitute
another 2 k
resistor. Its wattage is unimportant. Some performance checks in the calibration
process may fail if the resistors inaccuracy exceeds 0.1% (2 Ohms).
Potentiostat calibration is only required infrequently. You should recalibrate under the following circumstances:
You are installing a Series G Potentiostat into a new computer or moving a Series G into a different
computer. The Series G should be calibrated in the new machine.
You notice breaks or discontinuities in the data curves recorded with your system.
2-12
Figure 2-8
UDC4 With Leads Attached for Calibration
2-13
Cell Indicator
The Series G Potentiostat Card is equipped with a single yellow LED indicator, located just below the 9 pin Cell
Connector. This LED functions as a Cell Indication. It lights whenever the Series G cell switch is on and goes
dark whenever the cell is at open circuit. Figure D-1 in the appendices is a picture of the rear panel of a
computer demonstrating the location of this indicator.
Type
Name
Normal Connection
Blue
Banana Plug
Working Sense
Green
Banana Plug
Working Electrode
White
Pin Jack
Reference
Red
Banana Plug
Counter Electrode
Orange
Banana Plug
Counter Sense
Long Black
Banana Plug
Floating Ground
Short Black
Banana Plug
Chassis Ground
Connect both the blue and green cell leads to the working electrode. The working electrode is the specimen
being tested. The blue banana jack connection senses the voltage of the working electrode. The green working
electrode connection carries the cell current. The working electrode may be as much as 1.5 volts above the
circuit ground.
3-1
Connect the white pin jack to the cell's reference electrode, such as an SCE or Ag/AgCl reference electrode.
The measured cell potential is the potential difference between the blue and white cell connectors.
Connect the red banana plug to the counter or auxiliary electrode. The counter electrode is usually a large
inert metal or graphite electrode. The counter electrode terminal is the output of the Series G's power
amplifier.
The orange lead is only used in ZRA mode where it senses the counter electrode potential (see following
section). Automatic switching to ZRA mode is possible if this lead is connected to the counter electrode. If you
will not be using ZRA mode, this lead can be left open as long as you insure that it will not short against any
other electrode.
The longer black lead is connected on the Series G end to Floating Ground. This is the circuitry ground for the
analog circuits in the Series G. In most cases, this terminal should be left disconnected at the cell end. When
you do so, take care that it does not touch any of the other cell connections.
The shorter black lead is connected to the computers chassis (earth) ground.
If your cell is a typical glass laboratory cell, all of the electrodes are isolated from earth ground. In this case, you
may be able to lower noise in your data by connecting the longer black cell lead to a source of earth ground.
The short black lead or a water pipe can be suitable sources of earth ground.
Caution: If any electrode is at earth ground, you must not connect the long black
cell lead to earth ground. Autoclaves, stress apparatus, and field measurements
may involve earth grounded electrodes.
If you are measuring very small currents, you will probably find that a metal enclosure completely surrounding
your cell (a Faraday shield) significantly lowers measured current noise. This Faraday shield should be
connected to the short black cell connector. If your electrodes are all isolated from ground, you should also
connect the shield to the longer black lead.
The alligator clip on a cell connection can be removed to access the underlying banana plug or pin jack. If you
need to permanently change the terminations on your cell cable, feel free to remove the banana plugs and
replace them with your new termination. Gamry Instruments can provide additional standard or special cell
cables.
In either potentiostatic or galvanostatic mode, if you do not have a reference electrode in your cell, the
reference lead can be connected to the counter electrode for a two electrode experiment. The potential reading
will be the difference between the counter electrode and the working electrode.
3-2
Table 3-2
Cell Cable Connections for ZRA Mode
Color
Type
Name
Normal Connection
Blue
Banana Plug
Working Sense
Green
Banana Plug
Working Electrode
White
Pin Jack
Reference
Red
Banana Plug
Counter Electrode
Orange
Banana Plug
Counter Sense
Long Black
Banana Plug
Floating Ground
Short Black
Banana Plug
Chassis Ground
The counter sense and the working sense lead are each connected to different metal samples. In the ZRA
mode the Series G is programmed to maintain zero volts between these leads. It therefore maintains the two
metal samples at the same voltage.
The white pin jack on the cell cable is normally connected to a reference electrode. The potential between
this lead and the working sense lead is reported as the cell potential.
In ZRA mode, if you dont have a reference electrode in your cell, we recommend that you connect the white
reference lead to the working electrode. In theory, the measured potential will be exactly zero when this is
done. In practice, A/D noise and offset will create a small, almost noiseless signal very close to zero.
3-3
Table 3-3
Cell Cable Connections for a Membrane Cell
Color
Type
Name
Normal Connection
Blue
Banana Plug
Working Sense
Green
Banana Plug
Working Electrode
White
Pin Jack
Reference
Red
Banana Plug
Counter Electrode
Orange
Banana Plug
Counter Sense
Long Black
Banana Plug
Floating Ground
Short Black
Banana Plug
Chassis Ground
Note that reference electrode #1 and counter electrode #1 must be on one side of the membrane and
reference electrode #2 and counter electrode #2 must be on the other side.
3-4
4-1
Clock synchronization is not required for Master/Serf systems that do not run EIS experiments, so Gamry only
recommends that you use it when you require high quality, high frequency EIS data from a Master/Serf system.
Master/Serf Cable
The Master/Serf cable for the Series G is an internal cable that runs from the Controller Card of the Master to
the Controller Card of a Serf. The Master end of the Cable is clearly marked.
Additional segments of the cable can connect the first Serf to a second Serf, the second Serf to the third Serf,
and so on.
The signals transmitted down the cable are the Masters 16 MHz clock and the Masters data acquisition pulse.
The Master/Serf connector is located on the upper left corner of the Controller Card. It is labeled as J400.
4-2
Notes:
The clock timing chain must be continuous. All connectors on the Master/Serf cable
between the Timing Master and the final Serf Controller Card must be plugged into a
Controller Card.
All timing Serfs must have a jumper installed at J402. Once this jumper is installed, the
card will not operate without a connection to a timing Master.
All other combinations are invalid. Note that two Master/Serf scripts can be run simultaneously one using
PStat1 and PStat 2 and the second using PStat3 and Pstat4.
Once again, contact Gamry Instruments (email techsupport@gamry.com) if you need a longer Master/Serf
cable.
4-3
4-4
5-1
Slow down the potentiostat. The Series G has 4 control amplifier speed settings which can be
selected in software. Slower settings are generally more stable.
Increase the Series G's I/E stability setting. The Series G includes 2 capacitors that can be paralleled
with its I/E converter resistors. These capacitors are connected to relays that are under software
control. Contact your local Gamry Instruments' representative for more information concerning
changes in these settings.
Lower the reference electrode impedance. Make sure that you don't have a clogged reference
electrode junction. Avoid asbestos fiber reference electrodes and double junction electrodes. Avoid
small diameter Lugin capillaries. If you do have a Lugin capillary, make sure that the capillary
contents are as conductive as possible.
Add a capacitively coupled low impedance reference element in parallel with your existing reference
electrode. The classic fast combination reference electrode is a platinum wire and a junction isolated
SCE. See Figure 5-1. The capacitor insures that DC potential comes from the SCE and AC potential
from the platinum wire. The capacitor value is generally determined by trial and error.
Figure 5-1
Fast Combination Reference Electrode
White
Cell Lead
100 pF to 10 nF
SCE
Platinum
Electrolyte
5-2
Provide a high frequency shunt around the cell. A small capacitor between the red and white cell
leads allows high frequency feedback to bypass the cell. See Figure 5-2. The capacitor value is
generally determined by trial and error. One nanofarad is a good starting point.
In a sense, this is another form of an AC coupled low impedance reference electrode. The counter
electrode is the low impedance electrode, eliminating the need for an additional electrode in the
solution.
Figure 5-2
High Frequency Shunt
Red
100 pF to 10 nF
White
Reference
Green
Working
5-3
Counter
Add resistance to the counter electrode lead. See Figure 5-3. This change raises the effective gain of
the control amplifier, moving it away from the dangerous unity gain frequency. As a rule of thumb,
the resistor should be selected to give one volt of drop at the highest current expected in the test
being run. For example, if you expect your highest current to be around 1 mA, you can add a 1 k
resistor.
This resistor has no effect on the DC accuracy of the potentiostat. It can create problems in high
speed experiments such as fast CV scans or EIS, which need high bandwidth.
Figure 5-3
Resistor Added for Stability
Red
Resistor
White
Reference
Green
Working
5-4
Counter
Overview
The Series G is a sensitive scientific instrument. It can resolve current changes as small as 0.01 picoamps (10-14
amps). To place this current in perspective, 0.01 pA represents the flow of about 60,000 electrons per second!
The small currents measured by the Series G place demands on the instrument, the cell, the cables and the
experimenter. Many of the techniques used in higher current electrochemistry must be modified when used to
measure pA currents. In many cases, the basic physics of the measurement must be considered.
This chapter will discuss the limiting factors controlling low current measurements. It will include hints on cell
and system design. The emphasis will be on EIS (Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy), a highly
demanding application for the Series G.
Rshunt
Cshunt
Cin
Rin
Iin
In the ideal current measurement circuit Rin is infinite while Cin and Iin are zero. All the cell current, Icell, flows
through Rm.
With an ideal cell and voltage source, Rshunt is infinite and Cshunt is zero. All the current flowing into the
current measurement circuit is due to Zcell.
The voltage developed across Rm is measured by the meter as Vm. Given the idealities discussed above, one
can use Kirchoff's and Ohms law to calculate Zcell:
Zcell = Es * Rm / Vm
6-1
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals -- Measurement System Model and Physical Limitations
Figure 6-1
Equivalent Measurement Circuit
R shunt
C shunt
Rm
R in
C in
Current measurement circuits always have non-zero input capacitance, i.e. Cin > 0
Amplifiers used in the meter have input currents, i.e. Iin > 0
The cell and the potentiostat create both a non-zero Cshunt and a finite Rshunt
Additionally, basic physics limits high impedance measurements via Johnson noise, which is the inherent noise
in a resistance.
Johnson noise across a resistor represents a fundamental physical limitation. Resistors, regardless of
composition, demonstrate a minimum noise for both current and voltage, per the following equation:
E = (4 k T R F)1/2
I = (4 k T F / R)1/2
where:
k = Boltzman's constant 1.38x 10-23 J/K
T = temperature in K
F = noise bandwidth in Hz
R = resistance in ohms.
6-2
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals -- Measurement System Model and Physical Limitations
For purposes of approximation, the Noise bandwidth, F, is equal to the measurement frequency. Assume a
1011 ohm resistor as Zcell. At 300 K and a measurement frequency of 1 Hz this gives a voltage noise of 41 V
rms. The peak to peak noise is about 5 times the rms noise. Under these conditions, you can make a voltage
measurement of 10 mV across Zcell with an error of about 2%. Fortunately, an AC measurement can
reduce the bandwidth by integrating the measured value at the expense of additional measurement time. With
a noise bandwidth of 1 mHz, the voltage noise falls to about 1.3 V rms.
Current noise on the same resistor under the same conditions is 0.41 fA. To place this number in perspective, a
10 mV signal across this same resistor will generate a current of 100 fA, or again an error of up to 2%.
Again, reducing the bandwidth helps. At a noise bandwidth of 1 mHz, the current noise falls to 0.012 fA.
With Es at 10 mV, an EIS system that measures 1011 ohms at 1mHz is about 3 decades away from the Johnson
noise limits. At 0.1 Hz, the system is close enough to the Johnson noise limits to make accurate measurements
impossible. Between these limits, readings get progressively less accurate as the frequency increases.
In practice, EIS measurements usually cannot be made at high enough frequencies that Johnson noise is the
dominant noise source. If Johnson noise is a problem, averaging reduces the noise bandwidth, thereby
reducing the noise at a cost of lengthening the experiment.
6-3
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals -- Measurement System Model and Physical Limitations
For Rm equal to 107 ohms, an error < 1% demands that Rin must be > 109 ohms. PC board leakage, relay
leakage, and measurement device characteristics lower Rin below the desired value of infinity.
A similar problem is the finite input leakage current Iin into the voltage measuring circuit. It can be leakage
directly into the input of the voltage meter, or leakage from a voltage source (such as a power supply) through
an insulation resistance into the input. If an insulator connected to the input has a 1012 ohm resistance
between +15 volts and the input, the leakage current is 15 pA. Fortunately, most sources of leakage current
are DC and can be tuned out in impedance measurements. As a rule of thumb, the DC leakage should not
exceed the measured signal by more than a factor of 10.
The Series G uses an input amplifier with an input current of around 5 pA. Other circuit components may also
contribute leakage currents. You therefore cannot make absolute current measurements of very low pA
currents with the PCI4. In practice, the input current is approximately constant, so current differences or AC
current levels of less than one pA can often be measured.
6-4
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals -- Hints for System and Cell Design
are common. This shunt capacitance cannot be distinguished from "real" capacitance in the cell. If you are
measuring a paint film with a 100 pF capacitance, 5 pF of shunt capacitance is a very significant error.
Shunt resistance in the cell arises because of imperfect insulators. No material is a perfect insulator (one with
infinite resistance). Even Teflon, which is one of the best insulators known, has a bulk resistivity of about 1014
ohm-cm. Worse yet, surface contamination often lowers the effective resistivity of good insulators. Water films
can be a real problem, especially on glass.
Shunt capacitance and resistance also occur in the potentiostat itself. The Series G Potentiostat Mode
specifications in Appendix A contain equivalent values for the potentiostat's Rshunt and Cshunt. These values can
be measured by an impedance measurement with no cell.
In most cases, the cell's shunt resistance and capacitance errors are larger than those from the potentiostat.
Faraday Shield
A Faraday shield surrounding your cell is mandatory for very low level measurements. It reduces both current
noise picked up directly on the working electrode and voltage noise picked up by the reference electrode.
A Faraday shield is a conductive enclosure that surrounds the cell. The shield can be constructed from sheet
metal, fine mesh wire screen, or even conductive plastic. It must be continuous and completely surround the
cell. Don't forget the areas above and below the cell. All parts of the shield must be electrically connected.
You will need an opening in the shield large enough to allow the Series G cell cable to enter the shield.
The shield must be electrically connected to the Series G's floating ground terminal.
An additional connection of both the shield and the PCI4 floating ground to an earth ground may also prove
helpful.
NOTE: Only connect the Series G floating ground ground to earth ground if all conductive cell
components are well isolated from earth ground. A glass cell is usually well isolated. An autoclave is
generally not well isolated.
Fluorescent lights
Motors
Radio transmitters
6-5
Chapter 6 -- Measurement of Small Signals -- Hints for System and Cell Design
Lead Placement
Many experiments with the Series G involve cells with small capacitances, the value of which may be
important.
In these cases, the capacitance between the Series G's cell leads can result in an error. The Series G alligator
clips can have 5 pF or more of mutual capacitance if they are run alongside each other.
If you wish to avoid excessive capacitance.
Place the leads as far apart as possible. Pay special attention to the working electrode lead.
Remove the alligator clips from the leads. In extreme cases you can replace the banana plugs and
pin jack with smaller connectors. If you do so, be careful not to compromise the isolation between
the center conductor and the shield.
The cell leads must not be moved during an experiment which measures small currents. Both microphonic and
triboelectric effects can create spurious results when the cell cables are moved.
Cell Construction
If you need to measure small currents or high impedances, make sure that your cell construction does not limit
your response.
A cell where the resistance between the electrodes is only 1010 ohms cannot be used to measure 1013 ohm
impedances. In general, glass and Teflon are the preferred cell construction materials. Even glass may be a
problem if it is wet.
You also must worry about Cshunt. Make the "inactive" portion of your electrodes as small as possible. Avoid
placing electrodes close together or parallel with each other.
6-6
Reference Electrode
Keep your reference electrode impedance as low as possible. High impedance reference electrodes can cause
potentiostat instability and excessive voltage noise pickup.
Try to avoid:
Reference electrodes often develop high impedances as they see use. Anything that can clog the isolation frit
can raise the electrode impedance. Avoid using saturated KCL based references in perchlorate ion solutions.
Instrument Settings
There are several things to remember in setting up a very sensitive experiment.
In EIS, use the largest practical excitation. Don't use a 10 mV excitation on a coated specimen that
can handle 100 mV without damage.
Avoid potentials where large DC currents flow. You cannot measure 1pA of AC current on top of
1 mA of DC current.
EIS Speed
In EIS, do not expect the Series G to measure 1010 ohm impedances at 1 kHz. Many of the factors listed
above limit the performance.
As a rule of thumb, the product of Impedance, Z, times frequency, f, must be less than 109 Hz for good EIS
measurements with a Series G.
Z f < 109 Hz
Ancillary Apparatus
Do not use the Series G with ancillary apparatus connected directly to any of the cell leads. Ammeters and
voltmeters, regardless of their specifications, almost always create problems when connected to the Series G cell
leads.
Floating Operation
The Series G is capable of operation with cells where one of the electrodes or a cell surface is at earth ground.
Examples of earth grounded cells include: autoclaves, stress apparatus, pipelines, storage tanks and battleships.
The Series G's internal ground is allowed to float with respect to earth ground when it works with these cells,
hence the name floating operation.
Instrument performance can be substantially degraded when the Series G is operated in a floating mode. The
instrument specifications only apply on isolated cells with the Series G earth ground referenced (not floating).
6-7
Special precautions must be taken with the cell connections when the Series G must float. Make sure that all
the cell connections are isolated from earth ground. In this case, even the floating ground terminal of the Series
G must be kept isolated.
Finally, most ancillary apparatus connected to the cell of the Series G must be isolated. External voltmeters,
ammeters, FRA's etc. must be isolated. This includes devices connected to the monitor connectors located on
the Series G Controller board mini-panel.
6-8
Output Current
> 300 mA
Differential Electrometer
Input Impedance
Input Current
< 10 pA
Bandwidth (-3dB)
> 4 MHz
CMRR
Voltage Measurement
Full Scale Ranges
Resolution(16 Bits)
DC Accuracy
Offset Range
Current Measurement
Analog Full Scale Ranges
3 nA to 300 mA in decades
1, 10, 100
Offset Range
0.3% range 50 pA
3 volts differential
Bandwidth
20 Hz
Input Impedance
100 k
NOTES:
1. All specifications subject to change without notice
2. Offset specifications apply after software calibration
7-1
5 volts or 0 to 10 volts
Resolution
2.5 mV
Environmental
Operating Temperature
Specification Temperature
25 C
Potentiostat Mode
Applied E Range
11 volts
Accuracy
2 mV 0.3% of setting
DC Bias
8V
Scan Ranges
Resolution
Drift
< 30 V/C
Galvanostat Mode
Applied i range
DC accuracy
Scan Ranges
Current Interrupt
Measurement Type
15 sec
64 msec
A/D converter
Resolution
16 bits
Accuracy
Timing
General
Power
40 W maximum
< 1 A at +12 V
< 0.08 A at -5 V
< 3 nA @ DC
7-2
< 5.5 A at +5 V
< 0.02A at -12 V
Output Current
> 750 mA
Differential Electrometer
Input Impedance
Input Current
< 10 pA
Bandwidth (-3dB)
> 4 MHz
CMRR
Voltage Measurement
Full Scale Ranges
Resolution(16 Bits)
DC Accuracy
Offset Range
Current Measurement
Analog Full Scale Ranges
1, 10, 100
Offset Range
0.3% range 50 pA
3 volts differential
Bandwidth
20 Hz
Input Impedance
100 k
NOTES:
1. All specifications subject to change without notice
2. Offset specifications apply after software calibration
7-3
5 volts or 0 to 10 volts
Resolution
2.5 mV
Environmental
Operating Temperature
Specification Temperature
25 C
Potentiostat Mode
Applied E Range
11 volts
Accuracy
2 mV 0.3% of setting
DC Bias
8V
Scan Ranges
Resolution
Drift
< 30 V/C
Galvanostat Mode
Applied i range
DC accuracy
Scan Ranges
Current Interrupt
Measurement Type
15 sec
64 msec
A/D converter
Resolution
16 bits
Accuracy
Timing
General
Power
45 W maximum
< 1 A at 12 volts
< 0.08 A at -5 V
< 1 nA @ DC
7-4
< 6.5 A at +5 V
< 0.02 A at -12 V
7-5
The "GAMRY5.INI" file is an ASCII file that is divided into sections identified by a section name in square
brackets (e.g. [EIS300]). Each section contains setting for a specific aspect of the system.
You can modify the file using an ASCII editor or a word processor in a non-document mode (a mode with no
formatting codes in the text). The Windows Notepad accessory is a convenient ASCII editor.
The copy of "GAMRY5.INI" actually used by the software must be located in the Windows directory (normally
C:\WINDOWS). The Setup programs provided with Gamry Instruments' software either install "GAMRY5.INI" in
the correct directory or modify an existing file in this location.
A portion of a typical "GAMRY5.INI" file is shown in Figure C-1. Only some of the information required for
Series G configuration is shown. A complete "GAMRY5.INI" file is longer than this example.
In Figure C-1, the 1st line is called a section identifier. The name of the section is enclosed in square brackets,
e.g. [Framework5]. The [Framework5] section extends to the next section identifier [PCI4750-12345]. The
[Framework5] section contains configuration information for the Gamry Framework program. This section is
required in all "GAMRY5.INI" files that configure a Gamry Framework System.
"GAMRY5.INI" normally contains potentiostat calibration information (not shown). Each potentiostat's data are
in that potentiostats section. You do not normally have to edit the calibration data which is automatically
created and updated by the calibration routine built into the software.
The [PCI4yyy-xxxxx] section also contains the AUXDACRES field which you may need to change. See below
for details. In your installation, the yyy will be replaced with either 300 or 750 for the model of your
potentiostat. The xxxxx will be replaced with your controller boards serial number.
7-6
Figure C-1
Portion of a Typical "GAMRY5.INI" File
[Framework5]
Version=5.0
SystemDir=C:\Program Files\Gamry Instruments\Framework 5\
ScriptDir=C:\Program Files\Gamry Instruments\Framework 5\Scripts\
PACKAGE0=DC105
[PCI4G750-12345]
CMSDriver=PCI4.DLL
LABVIEWDriver=PCI4LV.DLL
BaseAddress=
PstatClass=PCI4
FraCurveClass=FRACURVE4
BoardNo=1
SerialNo=12345
Label=My PCI4
AuthDC105=1234567890
AUXDACRES=2.5E-3,0
[ECM8_1]
TYPE=ECM 8
LABEL=My ECM8
PORT=2
MODE=COM2:9600,N,8,1
SerialNo=12345
[DC105]
NAME=DC Corrosion
EXPT1=Corrosion Behavior Diagram,Corrosion Behavior Diagram.exp
EXPT2=Corrosion Potential,Corrosion Potential.exp
7-7
Register Address
The Series G Potentiostat card set, like all IBM compatible expansion cards, has hardware registers that the
computer must be able to access. These registers are located at a specific address in the memory address space
of the computer's microprocessor. Addresses are expressed in the hexadecimal numbering system where the
digits are 1,2,3,4...8,9,A,B,C,D,E,F. We will always precede a hexadecimal number with the prefix 0x, e.g.
0x22F.
The Series G requires a 64 byte memory space for its hardware control registers. The Windows Device
Manager will show several address spaces for a PCI4 device. The third space is the I/O registers for the Series
G. The other memory spaces are used in PCI configuration.
7-8
Appendix D -- I/O Connections for the Series G CE Compliance, EMI and Cable Shielding
7-9
We strongly recommend that you use an earth grounded Faraday shield whenever you are measuring small
currents. See Chapter 6 for a discussion of Faraday shields.
You should not attempt to use current interrupt IR compensation with cell cables longer than 5 meters,
In general, EIS with non-standard cables should be avoided. Errors are largest when the system being
measured is near the limits of the potentiostats accuracy contour diagram.
7-10
Table D-1
Cell Connector
Pin
1
Signal Name
Working Sense
WS Shield
Working Electrode
WE Shield
Ground
Ref Electrode
Ref Shield
Counter Sense
Counter Electrode
Use
Normally connected to the working electrode. This is the
high impedance negative input of the differential
electrometer. A 260 series resistor at the cell end of the
coax cable on this input is required for system stability.
A driven shield for the working sense input. Normally
connected to the outer shield of a coax cable on pin 1.
Do not ground this pin!
The input to the Series G current measurement circuit.
The voltage on this point can be 1.5 volt with respect to
floating ground.
A driven shield for the working electrode input. Normally
connected to the outer shield of a coax cable on pin 3.
Do not ground this pin!
The Series G's floating ground. Should also be used to
provide a shield for the counter electrode if one is used.
Normally connected to the reference electrode. High
impedance positive input of the differential electrometer.
A 260 series resistor at the cell end of the coax cable on
this input is required for system stability.
A driven shield for the reference electrode input.
Normally connected to the outer shield of a coax cable on
pin 6. Do not ground this pin!
Input to a voltage follower. Normally connected to the
cells counter electrode. Used in ZRA mode to develop a
feedback signal.
The output of the Series G control amplifier. Normally
connected to the counter electrode of the electrochemical
cell being tested.
7-11
7-12
Figure D-1
BNC Connectors on the PCI4 Controller Card Mini-panel
Rear View of Series G Cards in a Computer
I monitor
Output
Control Signal
Input
15 V max.
5 V Max.
9-pin
Cell Connector
Output 24 V
15-pin
Miscellaneous
I/O Connector
Output 10V max.
max
Yellow LED
Cell On
Green LED
Activity
E monitor
Output
15 V max.
Aux A/D
Input
15 V max.
Potentiostat
card
Controller
card
7-13
In controlled potential mode (and ZRA mode), the potential applied to the cell is the sum of the applied
potential and the control input voltage. For example, if the programmed voltage is +2 volts, and +1 volt is
applied to the control input, the cell voltage (Ework - Eref) will be +3 volt. The input impedance of this input is
3 k. Adding a control resistor, Rext, in series with the input allows you to alter the scaling factors. The
equation describing the relationship is:
Vcell = Vsig x 3k / (Rext + 3 k)
Vsig is the signal applied to the resistor and Vcell is the resulting cell voltage. If 27 k is added in series, a 1 volt
signal will be attenuated to cause only a 100 mV cell voltage.
In controlled current mode, you will get full scale current for 3 volts applied to this connector. The current will
vary with the current range. For example, on the 30 mA range, 1.5 volts will give you 15 mA of cell current.
The sign is such that a positive input gives you a cathodic current.
I Monitor Output
This output reflects the cell current signal from the Series Gs current to voltage converter. The I Monitor output
is the upper BNC connector on the PCI4 Potentiostat Card's mini-panel. It is located just above the 9-pin D
cell connector.
See Figure D-1 for the identity of all the BNC connectors on the Series Gs mini-panels.
WARNING: The shell of this BNC connector is connected to the Series G's
floating ground. Connecting an earth ground referenced signal source to this
connector will cause problems if you are using the Series G with a cell that has
an earth grounded electrode.
NOTE: Previous PC4 family instruments has a somewhat different current signal
output. They output an offset, filtered, and gained current signal. This signal has
proven to be less useful than the raw current signal, so that is the signal output
by the Series G.
This output has a range of 3V, with 3 volts corresponding to full-scale on the current range in use. The
polarity is defined so that positive voltages indicate cathodic current. If the voltage on this output becomes
more positive as a result of changes in the cell potential, the cell current has become more cathodic.
V Monitor Output
This output reflects the cell voltage signal from the Series Gs differential electrometer. The V monitor output is
the lower BNC connector on the PCI4 Potentiostat Card's mini-panel. It is located just below the 9-pin D cell
connector.
7-14
WARNING: The shell of this BNC connector is connected to the Series G's
floating ground. Connecting an earth ground referenced signal source to this
connector will cause problems if you are using the Series G with a cell that has
an earth grounded electrode.
NOTE: Previous PC4 family instruments has a somewhat different voltage signal
output. They output an offset, filtered, and gained voltage signal. This signal has
proven to be less useful than the raw voltage signal, so that is the signal output
by the Series G.
The scaling on this connector is one-to-one. The polarity is inverted -- the output is Vref-Vwork, not the more
customary Vwork-Vref. If this signal becomes more positive, the cell voltage has become more cathodic.
Name
Analog Output Low
Analog Output High
Sync In
Sync Out
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
No connection
Ground
Digital Out 0
Digital Out 1
Digital Out 2
Digital Out 3
Digital In 0
Digital In 1
Digital In 2
Digital In 3
+5 Volts
Use
The auxiliary output ground connection.
The auxiliary output signal.
Used in slave mode starts data acquisition
2.2 k input impedance
A 125 nsec TTL pulse output before the start of a data point
330 output impedance
No connection
Digital ground
A TTL digital output- 330 output impedance
A TTL digital output- 330 output impedance
A TTL digital output- 330 output impedance
A TTL digital output- 330 output impedance
A TTL digital input- 2.2 k input impedance
A TTL digital input- 2.2 k input impedance
A TTL digital input- 2.2 k input impedance
A TTL digital input- 2.2 k input impedance
Power- 100 mA maximum current
7-15
7-16
Overview
The Controller Card used in the Gamry Instruments Series G Potentiostat has jumpers that configure the input
circuitry used for the Aux A/D function.
Jumper Identification
The three jumpers that configure the Aux A/D input are in a cluster located toward the right side of the
Controller Card. The two coax cables that route analog inputs to the card enter the card near these jumpers.
See the figure below for jumper locations.
Figure E-1
Auxiliary A/D Input Configuration Jumpers
View of Series G Controller Card
J604
J603
J602
7-17
J604
NOTE: A prototype board was used as the subject in the photograph above. The
locations may have changed slightly on later revisions of the board.
Filter Selection
J602 controls filtering of the Aux A/D input. With J602 removed, there is no filtering on this input. With J602
in place (the default setting), a single pole RC filter is used to limit noise into the A/D. The nominal cutoff
frequency of this filter is 20 Hz.
Note that source impedances greater than 1 k will appreciably lower this cutoff frequency. When the Aux
A/D input is driven by a source with an output impedance of 1 M, the frequency cutoff will be less than 0.25
Hz.
3.276 volts
Input Impedance
100 k (approx)
or
10 G (typical)
< 10 nA
Filter Cutoff
20 Hz 20%
7-18
Appendix F IR Compensation
IR compensation is often required in electrochemical testing. A 3-electrode potentiostat can only control (or
measure) the potential between the working electrode and the reference electrode. This potential is not the
potential drop of across the working electrode interface which is generally what electrochemists are
interested in.
One particularly nasty source of error is the uncompensated solution resistance, Ru. This is the portion of the
cells total solution resistance that is between the reference electrode sensing point and the working electrode.
When a current, I, flows through the cell, the potential measured by the potentiostat is always in error by a
potential E where:
E = IRu
Various methods are used to correct for this source of errors. For more information on this topic, see Gamrys
Application Note entitled Understanding IR Compensation at www.gamry.com.
The Series G Potentiostat/Galvanostat/ZRA is capable of IR Compensation using two very different modes with
very different characteristics.
The first method is current interrupt IR compensation. It is especially useful in slow experiments. It can be
used when large changes in the current during the experiment require the use of automatic current range
selection. Examples of experiments that can benefit from current interrupt IR compensation include CV on
energy conversion devices (such as batteries, fuel cells and super capacitors) and corrosion tests.
The second method is positive feedback IR compensation. It is generally used during fast experiments where
the current range is not changed during the test. One good example is fast CV to determine reaction kinetics.
Current Interrupt
Gamrys Application Note entitled Understanding IR Compensation at www.gamry.com deals primarily with
current interrupt IR compensation. Current Interrupt iR compensation is shown as CI in experiments that
offer iR compensation.
The Series Gs hardware limits for current interrupt iR compensation are:
Interrupt Time
Maximum E
8.192 V
Note that the interrupt time is actually controlled by Gamrys Framework software. The time is dynamically
varied depending on the current range in use.
While the Series G hardware can correct for iR errors up to 8.192 V, it is difficult to envision an electrochemical
cell and experiment where a correction this large is realistic.
7-19
Positive Feedback
Positive feedback is a second method for iR compensation. It is usually used for iR compensation during
experiments that are too fast for current interrupt iR compensation.
At the time this manual was written, Gamry has not yet written a through description of positive feedback iR
compensation in an Application Note. A major revision of our Application Note entitled Understanding iR
Compensation that treats positive feedback in some detail is planned.
Positive Feedback iR compensation is shown as PF in experiments that offer iR compensation. You must
enter an estimated value for Ru before you can use positive feedback iR compensation.
Positive feedback iR compensation cannot be used in experiments in which the current range is changed during
data acquisition.
The specification for positive feedback iR compensation on the Series G depend on the current range selected
for the experiment. These are the specifications written in terms of the current range:
Equivalent Rm
Maximum Ru
Rm
Ru resolution
Rm / 65536
Maximum E
3.0 V
3.0 V / 3 mA
1 k
Maximum Ru
3.0 V / 3 mA
1 k
Ru resolution
1 k / 65536
15.26 m
While the Series G hardware can correct for iR errors up to 3.00 V, it is difficult to envision an electrochemical
cell and experiment where a correction this large is realistic.
7-20
Appendix G CE Certificate
Declaration of Conformity
This declaration is provided according to ISO/IEC 17050-1: 2004 and ISO/IEC 17050-2: 2004
Manufacturer's Name and Location:
Gamry Instruments
734 Louis Drive
Warminster, PA 18974
USA
This declaration is for the Gamry Instruments product models PCI4 Series G Product Series. This includes Series G/300, Series G/750,
Series G control board, and any variations.
The declaration is based upon compliance with the following directives:
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC.
Low Voltage Safety Directive 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC.
The declaration is based upon product compliance with the following standards as defined in report number R0380-000 from Ergonomics,
Inc. for safety analysis and report number R-2912P from Retlif Testing Laboratories, Inc. for EMC test and analysis.
EMC Standards
EN61326:2000
EMISSIONS
Title
Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use - EMC
Requirements-Second Edition
CISPR 16
CISPR 16
Pass
Pass
Electrostatic Discharge
Radiated Field Immunity
Electrical Fast Transient Immunity (AC Power)
Serge Immunity
Power Line Conducted Immunity
Voltage Dips and Interupts
Pass Criteria C
Pass Criteria B
Pass Criteria A
Pass Criteria A
Pass Criteria A
Pass Criteria A
Title
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use, Part 1:
General requirements.
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use, Part 2
Particular requirements for automatic and semiautomatic laboratory equipment for analysis and other
purposes
__________________________
Signature
October 6, 2006
___________________
Date
7-21
Certificate of Conformance
7-22
Comprehensive Index
Comprehensive Index
black banana
longer, 3-2
blue cell lead, 3-1
calibration, 2-12
data, 7-6
capacitive cells, 5-1
Card Identification, 2-2
CE Compliance, 1-1, 7-9
CE controller card, 2-3
CE power splitter, 2-4
cell cable, 3-1
replacements and specials, 3-2
ZRA connections, 3-2
cell connector
pinout, 7-10
cell construction materials, 6-6
computer requirements, 2-1
computers - noise, 6-5
Control Signal Input, 7-12
conventions
notational, 1-5
positional, 2-2
counter electrode, 3-2
noise, 6-4
Notepad, 7-6, 7-7
8-1
Comprehensive Index
8-2