Technical data

Introduction to SCPI 1
U2761A Programmer’s Reference 5
Using “ * ” commands
Commands starting with a “*” are called common commands. They are
required to perform the identical function for all instruments that are
compliant with the IEEE- 488.2 interface standard.
The IEEE- 488.2 standard defines a set of common commands that perform
functions such as reset, self- test, and status operations. Common
commands always begin with an asterisk (*), are three characters in
length, and may include one or more parameters.
Syntax conventions
The following SCPI conventions are used throughout this guide.
Braces “{ }”
Braces “{ }” enclose the parameter choices for a given command string.
For example, the syntax statement below shows that you need to select an
output function:
[SOURce:]FUNCtion[:SHAPe] {SINusoid|SQUare|RAMP|PULSe|DC|USER}
The braces are not sent with the command string. A vertical bar “|”
separates multiple parameter choices for a given command string.
Triangle brackets “< >”
Triangle brackets “< >” indicate that you must specify a value for the
enclosed parameter. For example, the syntax statement below shows the
<value> parameter enclosed in triangle brackets:
CALibration:VALue <value>
The brackets are not sent with the command string. You must specify a
value for the parameter:
CALibration:VALue 1E+7