Agilent Technologies EPM-P Series Programming Manual page 124

Power Meter Remote Operation
An Introduction to the SCPI Language
Using a Semicolon (;)
Use a semicolon to separate two commands within the same command
string. The semicolon does not change the present path specified. For
example, the following two statements are equivalent. Note that in the
first statement the first colon is optional but the third is compulsory.
:DISP:FORM DIG;:DISP:RES 2
:DISP:FORM DIG;RES 2
Using a Comma (,)
If a command requires more than one parameter, you must separate
adjacent parameters using a comma.
Using Whitespace
You must use whitespace characters, [tab], or [space] to separate a
parameter from a command keyword. Whitespace characters are
generally ignored only in parameter lists.
Using "?" Commands
The bus controller may send commands at any time, but a SCPI
instrument may only send responses when specifically instructed to do so.
Only query commands (commands that end with a "?") will instruct the
instrument to send a response message. Queries return either measured
values or internal instrument settings.
Note If you send two query commands without reading the response from
the first, then attempt to read the second response, you may receive
some data from the first response followed by the complete second
response. To avoid this, do not send a query command without reading
the response. When you cannot avoid this situation, send a device
clear before sending the second query command.
Using "*" Commands
Commands starting with a "*" are called common commands. They are
required to perform the identical function for all instruments that are
compliant with the IEEE-488.2 interface standard. The "*" commands are
used to control reset, self-test, and status operations in the power meter.
EPM-P Series Power Meters Programming Guide 1-99
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com