Programming

Reviewing SCPI Syntax Rules

Program message terminator

The string of instructions sent to the instrument are executed after the instruction terminator is received. The terminator may be either a new- line (NL) character, the End- Or- Identify (EOI) line asserted, or a combination of the two. All three ways are equivalent. Asserting the EOI sets the EOI control line low on the last byte of the data message. The NL character is an ASCII linefeed (decimal 10). The NL terminator has the same function as an EOS (End Of String) and EOT (End Of Text) terminator.

Querying data

Data is requested from the instrument using a query. Queries can be used to find out how the instrument is currently configured. They are also used to get results of measurements made by the instrument, with the query actually activating the measurement. String responses are returned as upper- case letters.

Queries usually take the form of a command followed by a question mark (?). After receiving a query, the instrument places the answer in its output queue. The answer remains in the output queue until it is read or another command is issued. For example, the query

OUTPUT 720;”:CALCULATE2:POINTS?”

places the number of points in the data set in the output queue. In HP BASIC, the controller input statement:

ENTER 720;Range

passes the value across the bus to the controller and places it in the variable Range. A newline character is appended to the response.

Sending another command or query before reading the result of a query causes the output queue to be cleared and the current response to be lost. This also generates an error in the error queue.

The output of the instrument may be numeric or character data depending on what is queried. Refer to the specific commands for the formats and types of data returned from queries.

You can send multiple queries to the instrument within a single pro- gram message, but you must also read them back within a single pro- gram message. This can be accomplished by either reading them back into a string variable or into multiple numeric variables. When you read the result of multiple queries into string variables, each response is separated by a semicolon.

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Agilent Technologies Agilent 86120C manual Program message terminator, Querying data
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Agilent 86120C specifications

Agilent Technologies is renowned for its innovative solutions in the field of electronic measurement and test instrumentation. Among its extensive portfolio, the Agilent 86120C stands out as a high-performance optical sampling oscilloscope designed for advanced optical communication system testing and development.

One of the key features of the Agilent 86120C is its ability to perform high-speed digital modulation analysis. With a bandwidth of up to 20 GHz, it supports a wide range of optical signals, making it ideal for testing and characterizing various optical components and systems. The device is capable of analyzing multiple modulation formats, including pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-4), making it a critical tool for engineers working on next-generation data transport technologies.

Another outstanding characteristic of the Agilent 86120C is its sophisticated optical performance monitoring capabilities. It employs advanced algorithms and techniques to provide real-time assessment of signal integrity. The oscilloscope can measure parameters such as eye diagrams, jitter, and signal-to-noise ratios, which are crucial for ensuring the reliability and performance of optical communication links.

Incorporating cutting-edge technologies, the Agilent 86120C features a high-sensitivity photodetector optimized for low-light detection and high-speed applications. This allows users to accurately capture and analyze signals, even when working with low-power transmission systems. The oscilloscope also supports multiple input channels, enabling simultaneous testing of multiple wavelengths or different signal paths.

User-friendly software is another highlight of the Agilent 86120C. The intuitive interface streamlines the measurement process and provides comprehensive data analysis tools. Users can quickly generate reports, conduct statistical analysis, and visualize data in various formats to enhance their understanding of signal behavior.

Additionally, the Agilent 86120C is equipped with connectivity options for seamless integration into larger test setups. It can easily interface with other Agilent test instruments, PCs, and networked environments, allowing engineers to create a comprehensive testing environment tailored to their specific needs.

In conclusion, the Agilent 86120C optical sampling oscilloscope combines high performance, advanced features, and cutting-edge technologies to meet the demanding requirements of optical communication testing. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for engineers working in the rapidly evolving field of data communications.
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