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White Space
Instruction Parameters
Header Types
Introduction to Progmmming an Instrument
really means is that the text between the brackets is optional, but it's also a
quick way to see what the header looks like.
White space is used to separate the instruction header from the
instruction parameters. If the instruction does not use any parameters,
you do not need to include any white space. White space is defined as one
or more spaces. ASCII defines a space to be character 32 (in decimal).
Tabs can be used only if your controller first converts them to space
characters before sending the string to the instrument.
Instruction parameters are used to clarify the meaning of the command or
query. They provide necessary data, such as whether a function should be
on or off, which waveform is to be displayed, or which pattern is to be
looked for. Each instruction's syntax deli&ion shows the parameters, as
well as the values they accept. This chapter's "Parameter Syntax Rules"
section has all of the general rules about acceptable values.
When there is more than one parameter they are separated by
commas (,). You are allowed to add spaces around the commas.
There are three types of headers: Simple Command; Compound
Command; and Common Command.
Simple Command Header.
keyword. START and STOP are examples of simple command headers
typically used in this instrument. The syntax is:
When parameters (indicated by c data z= ) must be included with the
simple command header (for example, :RMODE SINGLE) the syntax is:
Compound Command Header.
combination of two or more program keywords. The first keyword selects
the subsystem, and the last keyword selects the function within that
subsystem. Sometimes you may need to list more than one subsystem
before being allowed to specify the function. The keywords within the
compound header are separated by colons. For example:
To execute a single function within a subsystem, use the following:
Simple command headers contain a single
Compound command headers are a
Programming Reference
HP 16628/1653B
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