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.
IO Libraries
An IO library is a collection of functions used by a programming language to send instrument
commands. An IO library must be installed on your computer before writing any programs to
control the signal generator.
NOTE Agilent IO libraries support the VXI-11 standard.