Photodetector IV Sweep Automation

A set of Python GUI's for running IV sweep characterization on photodiodes using a Keithley 6487 Picoammeter.

Requirements

NI-VISA Driver

• Linux: Linux GPIB Driver

For detailed instructions on installing/updating Linux GPIB driver, see: National Instruments GPIB-USB-HS + PYVISA on Ubuntu

Python Dependencies

• Python 3.x
• pyvisa
• pymeasure
• numpy

To-Do

• Wrap all of the procedures together in a single interface with the option to select which one to launch

Common Issues

If the script is not connecting the VISA adapter or it is erroring on running an experiment, please double-check the USB connection to the VISA adapter and verify that the PC detects the adapter. Sometimes the USB hub that the adapter is plugged into can be spotty. If the kernel has recently been updated, you may need re-build the NI-VISA driver per the prior directions.

You can verify if the NI-VISA GPIB kernel module is loaded by running:

lsmod | grep gpib

If the above command produces no output, then the GPIB kernel module needs to be re-compiled for the updated kernel using the directions here.