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R E M O T E O P E R A T I O N
3
C H A P T E R
Basic GPIB Concepts
Basic GPIB Concepts
The information in this basic concepts discussion is normally not necessary to successfully operate
the MPS−8033 through its GPIB interface, because your computer's GPIB controller usually handles
them for you. However this is a useful perspective in understanding GPIB.
Data and Interface Messages
GPIB devices communicate with each other by sending data and interface messages. Data contains
device−specific information such as programming instructions, measurement results, and instrument
status. Each device has an address number, and ignores all data traffic not addressed to it.
Depending on its content, data is often called a "device dependent message" or a "device
dependent command". Interface messages manage the bus, with functions such as initializing the
bus and addressing or unaddressing devices. In addition, some individual bus lines are designated
for this purpose.
Talkers, Listeners, and Controllers
Every GPIB system consists of one or more "talkers" and "listeners", and often at least one
"controller". Talkers supply data. Listeners accept data. A system can consist of simply a talker
and listener, for example a meter connected to a datalogger 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 often also designates itself as a listener so it can 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 controller 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 you to configure the
system linearly, or in a star configuration.
Device A
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MPS-8033
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Device B
Device C
linear configuration
Figure 3.1 GPIB Cable Connections
Device A
Device D
Device B
Device C
Device D
star configuration
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