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S:\agilent\8920\8920b\PRGGUIDE\BOOK\CHAPTERS\usehpib.fb
Chapter 1, Using GPIB
Overview of the Test Set
Overview of the Test Set
The Test Set combines up to 22 separate test instruments and an Instrument
BASIC (IBASIC) Controller into one package. All of the Test Set’s functions can
be automatically controlled through application programs running on the built-in
IBASIC Controller or on an external controller connected through GPIB.
Developing programs for the Test Set is simplified if the programmer has a basic
understanding of how the Test Set operates. An overview of the Test Set’s
operation is best presented in terms of how information flows through the unit.
The simplified block diagrams shown in
Figure 1 on page 32 and Figure 2 on page
33
depict how instrument control information and measurement result information
are routed among the Test Set’s instruments, instrument control hardware, built-in
IBASIC controller, and other components.
The Test Set has two operating modes: Manual Control mode and Automatic
Control mode. In Manual Control mode the Test Set’s operation is controlled
through the front panel keypad/rotary knob. There are two Automatic Control
modes: Internal and External. In Internal Automatic Control mode the Test Set’s
operation is controlled by an application program running on the built-in IBASIC
Controller. In External Automatic Control mode the Test Set’s operation is
controlled by an external controller connected to the Test Set through the GPIB
interface.