Programming instructions

Getting Started
Introduction to Remote Operation
Chapter 1 3
Interfaces
GPIB GPIB is used extensively when a dedicated computer is available for remote
control of each instrument or system. Data transfer is fast because the GPIB
handles information in 8-bit bytes. GPIB is physically restricted by the
location and distance between the instrument/system and the computer;
cables are limited to an average length of two meters per device with a total
length of 20 meters.
LAN LAN based communication is supported by the signal generator. Data
transfer is fast as the LAN handles packets of data. The distance between a
computer and the signal generator is limited to 100 meters (10BASE-T). The
following protocols can be used to communicate with the signal generator
over the LAN:
• VMEbus Extensions for Instrumentation (VXI) as defined in VXI-11
• Sockets LAN
• Telephone Network (TELNET)
• File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
RS-232 RS-232 is a common method used to communicate with a single instrument;
its primary use is to control printers and external disk drives, and connect to
a modem. Communication over RS-232 is much slower than with GPIB or
LAN because data is sent and received one bit at a time. It also requires that
certain parameters, such as baud rate, be matched on both the computer
and signal generator.
I/O Libraries
An I/O library is a collection of functions used by a programming language to send instrument
commands. An I/O library must be installed on your computer before writing any programs to
control the signal generator.
NOTE Agilent I/O libraries support the VXI-11 standard.