Technical data

50 Agilent Connectivity Guide
3 Connecting Instruments to GPIB
Connect GPIB Instruments
1 Review Connection Guidelines. The recommended method for
connecting a GPIB system is linear with the system controller
(PC) at one end of the system. However, a GPIB system can also
be connected together in a star or combination configuration. The
total number of devices on the system must be ≤14 and these
guidelines are followed:
• To minimize stress on connector mountings, stack no more
than three cable connector blocks on top of one another. The
GPIB connector screws should be finger-tightened only.
• Minimize cable length as much as possible. All system
devices must be powered on. Turning devices on or off while
a system is running may cause faulty operation.
• For data transfer rates <500 Kbytes/sec., the total allowed
length of all GPIB cables is ≤2 meters times the number of
devices connected together, up to a maximum of 20 meters.
• For data transfer rates > 500 Kbytes/sec., the total allowed
length of all GPIB cables is ≤1 meter times the number of
devices connected together, up to a maximum of 15 meters.
• The cable length between adjacent devices is not critical as
long as the system meets the overall restriction. GPIB bus
extenders are available that allow operation over much greater
distances.
•
Connect GPIB Cables to the GPIB Interface Card. Connect a
separate GPIB cable to each installed GPIB Interface Card.
Tighten the GPIB connector screws finger-tight only. (The
screwdriver slots are for removal purposes only.) Two
example connections follow to connect a single GPIB
instrument or to connect multiple GPIB instruments.