Talkers, Listeners, And Controllers; Gpib Cable Connections; Figure 3.1 - Gpib Cable Connection - Newport LDC-3706 Series User Manual

Talkers, Listeners, and Controllers

Every GPIB system consists of one or more "talkers" and "listeners", and often at least one
"controller". Talkers supply data while listeners accept data. A system can consist of simply a talker
and listener, as in a system comprised of a meter connected to a data logger or chart recorder.
Controllers designate talkers and listeners. A controller is necessary when the active talkers or
listeners must be changed. When the controller is a computer, it may also designate itself as a
listener when it needs to collect data from designated talkers.
If there is more than one controller, only one can be the Controller in Charge (CIC). Control can be
passed from one computer to another. In a multiple-controller system, there can be one "System
Controller" capable of asserting control (becoming CIC).

GPIB Cable Connections

Standard GPIB connectors can be connected together (stacked) allowing the system to be
configured linearly, or in a star configuration. Up to 15 devices may be connected to the bus. The
maximum length of cable used should be limited to 20m. Caution should be taken if individual cable
lengths exceed 4m.
Figure 3.1 – GPIB Cable Connection
December 2019 42 LDC-3706 Series Laser Controller