2Getting Started

Reading Query Responses from the Oscilloscope

After receiving a query (command header followed by a question mark), the instrument interrogates the requested function and places the answer in its output queue. The answer remains in the output queue until it is read or another command is issued. When read, the answer is transmitted across the interface to the designated listener (typically a controller).

The statement for reading a query response message from an instrument’s output queue typically has a format specification for handling the response message.

When using the VISA COM library in Visual Basic, you use different read methods (ReadString, ReadNumber, ReadList, or ReadIEEEBlock) for the various query response formats. For example, to read the result of the query command :CHANnel1:COUPling? you would execute the statements:

myScope.WriteString ":CHANNEL1:COUPLING?" Dim strQueryResult As String strQueryResult = myScope.ReadString

This reads the current setting for the channel one coupling into the string variable strQueryResult.

All results for queries (sent in one program message) must be read before another program message is sent.

Sending another command before reading the result of the query clears the output buffer and the current response. This also causes an error to be placed in the error queue.

Executing a read statement before sending a query causes the controller to wait indefinitely.

The format specification for handling response messages depends on the programming language.

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Agilent 6000 Series Oscilloscopes Programmer’s Quick Start Guide

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Agilent Technologies 6000 Series quick start Reading Query Responses from the Oscilloscope
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6000 Series specifications

Agilent Technologies has long been recognized as a leader in the field of electronic measurement and test equipment, and the Agilent 6000 Series oscilloscopes exemplify this commitment to innovation and quality. Designed for both professional engineers and researchers, the 6000 Series offers a comprehensive suite of features that enhance usability, accuracy, and efficiency in various applications.

At the heart of the Agilent 6000 Series is its advanced architecture, which integrates a high-performance analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a sophisticated digital signal processing engine. This combination enables users to capture fast, high-resolution signals with remarkable accuracy, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from automotive to telecommunications.

One of the standout features of the 6000 Series is its bandwidth options, which typically range from 100 MHz to 500 MHz. This flexibility allows users to select an oscilloscope that best fits their specific needs. Coupled with a sampling rate of up to 4 GSa/s, the 6000 Series offers exceptional timing resolution, ensuring that even the most fleeting signals are accurately represented.

The user interface of the 6000 Series is designed for maximum efficiency. The oscilloscopes are equipped with a large, high-resolution display, enabling users to view complex waveforms in detail. Furthermore, the touch screen interface provides a level of interactivity that simplifies navigation through various functions, making it accessible for both seasoned professionals and novices alike.

Additionally, the 6000 Series incorporates advanced triggering capabilities, allowing users to isolate specific events in their signals easily. The wide array of available triggering options includes edge, pulse width, and serial triggering formats, which are vital for analyzing complex digital communications.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Agilent 6000 Series is its built-in measurement and analysis tools. The oscilloscopes come equipped with automated measurements, enabling users to quickly gather important data about their signals without manual calculations. This reduces the time spent on testing and increases overall productivity.

In terms of connectivity, the 6000 Series includes USB and LAN interfaces, providing easy data transfer and integration with other devices. The inclusion of advanced software options further enhances data analysis capabilities, enabling users to perform extensive post-acquisition analysis.

In summary, Agilent Technologies' 6000 Series oscilloscopes represent a blend of cutting-edge features, user-friendly design, and high-performance technologies, making them an invaluable tool for engineers and scientists engaged in electronic measurements and analysis. Their versatility and power make them well-suited to meet the demands of modern engineering challenges.
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