Specifications

34 Chapter 2
Outline of Remote Control
Remote control using E4991A macros
Sending command messages
When controlling the E4991A or peripheral equipment by macro functions, the command
set differs depending on the target of control.
Commands to control E4991A
The command used to control the E4991A is written in the E4991A COM interface. The
following two types of E4991A COM interfaces can be used. For combined use of the
COM interface and a GPIB command provided by the E4991A, it is necessary to
understand how to use the GPIB command.
• COM interface
• COM interface combined with GPIB command of the E4991A
For the basic method of using the E4991A COM interface, refer to Chapter 14, “Outline of
Programming Using COM,” on page 237 and Chapter 18, “COM Interface Reference,” on
page 527.
To find a GPIB command provided by the E4991A, refer to “Learning about GPIB
commands” on page 29.
Commands to control peripheral equipment
The macro used to control peripheral equipment is written by using the VISA library.
For the basic method of using the functions provided by the VISA library, refer to Chapter
15 on page 245. For details on how to use the VISA library, refer to the on-line help for
VISA (accessible by opening the file named visa.hlp on the supplied CD-ROM (Agilent
Parts No. E4991-905x0)).
For how to use the GPIB commands of peripheral equipment, refer to the operation manual
of the peripheral equipment.
Remote mode
Unlike previous Agilent models, the E4991A does not have a “Remote mode” that
automatically locks up operation of the front panel’s hardkeys when it is controlled through
E4991A COM object. If necessary, the E4991A’s front panel can be locked by a command.