Selecting A Measurement Controller; Stand-Alone Operation Using Ibasic; Computer-Controlled Hp-Ib Operation - HP 8712ET User Manual Supplement

Configuring Your Test System

Selecting a Measurement Controller

Selecting a Measurement Controller
There are three standard configurations that you can use to control the
analyzer:

• stand-alone operation using IBASIC

• computer-controlled HP-IB operation

• computer-controlled LAN operation
Stand-Alone Operation using IBASIC
IBASIC, in effect, puts a controller inside your analyzer and eliminates
the need for an external computer. IBASIC controls the analyzer by
sending SCPI commands to address 800 (OUTPUT 800;"Command"), or
by using high-speed built-in subprograms. Since IBASIC shares CPU
time with the analyzer, it may cause some degradation in measurement
throughput if your program performs intensive computations. However,
for most applications, it provides excellent performance and convenience.
Refer to the HP Instrument BASIC User's Handbook and HP Instrument
BASIC User's Handbook Supplement for more information.
Computer-Controlled HP-IB Operation
An external computer can be used to control the analyzer. It can be a
personal computer (PC) or a dedicated HP BASIC controller. The
external computer sends standard SCPI commands to address
716 (default) (OUTPUT 716;"Command") to control the analyzer. Refer to
the Programmer's Guide for more information.
You can use one computer to control several analyzers (see
"Expandability and Large Systems" earlier in this chapter). However, if a
large number of SCPI commands are required per measurement,
throughput may be degraded. Typical limits are 3 to 10 analyzers per
computer.
Automating Measurements 2-9