Technical data

Agilent Signal Generators Programming Guide 69

Using IO Interfaces

Using USB (Agilent MXG)

CAUTION USB cables are not industrial graded and potentially allows data loss in noisy

environments.

USB cables do not have a latching mechanism and the cables can be pulled out of the

PC or instrument relatively easily.

The maximum length for USB cables is 30 m, including the use of inline repeaters.

NOTE The USB interface is available only on the Agilent MXG signal generator.

The Agilent MXG’s USB 2.0 interface supports USBTMC or USBTMC–USB488 specifications.

For more information on connecting instruments to the USB, refer to the Agilent Connection

Expert in the Agilent IO Libraries Help.

USB 2.0 connectors can be used to communicate with the signal generator. The

N5161A/62A/81A/82A is equipped with a Mini–B 5 pin rear panel connector (device USB). Use a

Type–A to Mini–USB 5 pin cable to connect the signal generator to the computer (Refer to “Setting

Up the USB Interface” on page 70). Connect the Type–A front panel connector (host USB) can be

used to connect a mouse, a keyboard, or a USB 1.1/2.0 flash drive (USB media). (Refer to the User’s

Guide.) ARB waveform encryption of proprietary information is supported. Many functions provided

by GPIB, including GET, non–SCPI remote languages, and remote mode are available using the USB

interface.

NOTE For a list of compatible flash drives to use with the USB external interface. Refer to

http://www.agilent.com/find/mxg.

Do not use the Type A front panel USB to connect to a computer.

The following sections contain information on selecting and connecting I/O libraries and the USB

interface that are required to remotely program the signal generator through the computer and

combining those choices with one of several possible USB interface protocols.

• “Selecting I/O Libraries for USB” on page 70

• “Setting Up the USB Interface” on page 70

• “Verifying USB Functionality” on page 71