The output voltages are continuously adjustable from zero to full scale with calibrated and locking 5-turn dials. Each supply provides two outputs controlled by the same dial: a 0 to 5 kV output, and a 0 to 500 V output. Two 10-segment bar-graph indicators verify that the selected voltages are being supplied at the outputs.
Security against accidentally changing the output polarity to the wrong state is ensured by two features. The selected output polarity for each supply is indicated by front-panel LEDs whenever the NIM bin power is turned on. Thus, the correct polarity can be verified before the HV ON/OFF switch is used to turn on the bias voltage to the detector. In addition, the side panel must be removed in order to alter the output polarity. This discourages unintentional changes.
The Model 660 includes a remote shutdown feature to protect the preamplifier FET against damage when a cooled germanium or Si(Li) detector warms up. Each supply includes a BIAS SHUTDOWN input that is compatible with the standard warmup sensor output on ORTEC preamplifiers. When the preamplifier signals a warmup condition, the Model 660 shuts off the bias voltage to that detector, and turns on a SHUTDOWN indicator light. The bias voltage remains off, independent of the signal from the preamplifier warmup sensor, until the shutdown mode is manually cancelled by pressing the RESET push button. This protects the preamplifier FET if the detector is cooling down with the HV ON/OFF switch accidentally left on. For further protection against operator error in the ORTEC shutdown mode, the bias shut-down input interprets a disconnected cable or a shorted cable as a warm detector, and responds by turning off the bias voltage. Some detector manufacturers provide a TTL logic level output from their detector warmup sensor. A board-mounted jumper in the Model 660 can be moved to the TTL position to make the bias shutdown input compatible with detectors supplying a TTL output. It is also possible to disable the bias shutdown feature by moving the board jumper to the BYPASS position. The Model 660 is shipped from the factory with both supplies set to the ORTEC mode.
The high voltage outputs are protected against overload. When the bias supply senses an excessive output current demand, it turns on the overload light and reduces the output voltage until the output current is within tolerable limits. Recovery from overload is automatic when the excessive current demand is eliminated.