SC5 Signal Conversion Introduction
10
Introduction
The Nanonis Signal Conversion interface (SC5) is a high-performance analog frontend designed for applications
requiring high resolution, high precision, low noise, low drift, the highest DC and AC performance, and multiple-
channel functionality within a single enclosure. With up to 22-bit resolution, 1-ppm precision, and an output
bandwidth of 40 kHz, the SC5 is the ideal frontend for scanning probe microscopy (SPM), transport, and device
characterization experiments.
The SC5 features eight differential analog inputs with ±10 V input range and 100 kHz bandwidth with custom
designed low noise and low drift input stages. Each input signal is converted into the digital domain by a state-of-
the-art 18-bit, 1 MS/s ADC offering high resolution and oversampling reserves for additional resolution
enhancement.
The SC5 features eight single-ended outputs with ±10 V signal range and 40 kHz bandwidth, and an additional
output with 1 MHz bandwidth on the rear panel. Digital to analog conversion is achieved by using high-performance
20-bit, 1 MS/s R2R DACs, allowing for 1 ppm precision and ultra-low noise. The resolution can be enhanced further
to 22-bit using the patented hrDAC™ technology. All outputs are short-circuit proof, and clamped to GND when the
instrument is switched off.
For optimal temperature stability, the SC5 uses a custom temperature-stabilized, and thermally and mechanically
isolated precision voltage reference. Each function group has its own low-noise voltage regulators, and crosstalk is
minimized further by separately shielding the inputs, outputs, voltage reference, and digital processing circuits from
each other and from the power supply.
The instrument is powered by an internal linear power supply with automatic line voltage detection and
overtemperature protection. No switching power supplies or DC-DC converters are used. A separate winding of the
power transformer is used for the auxiliary ±15 V power supply, which can feed external instruments (e.g.
preamplifiers) with a current load of up to 300 mA.
The SC5 allows for a flexible electrical ground concept, which minimizes sources of noise and hum without
sacrificing safety of operation. The user can choose whether the reference ground of the analog electronics should be
connected to the experiment or to protection earth (PE). Protection earth is provided over the supply voltage
connector and is connected to the metallic enclosure of the SC5.
Computer control of the SC5 is achieved using the Nanonis RC5 real-time controller, to which the SC5 is connected
with a dedicated digital cable. Up to three SC5s can be connected to one RC5, therefore allowing data acquisition
systems with 24 input and 27 output channels. The SC5 should be connected only to the Nanonis RC5, and
throughout this manual it will be assumed that this is the case. For more details about the Nanonis RC5, please refer
to the RC5 User Manual.
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