Programming

Making Measurements

A common programming error is to send the :MEASure command when the instrument is in the continuous measurement acquisition mode. Because :MEASure contains an :INIT:IMM command, which expects the single measurement acquisition mode, an error is gener- ated, and the INIT command is ignored.

:READ command

The READ command works like the MEASure command except that it does not configure the instrument’s settings. You can use the CONFig- ure command to configure the instrument for a particular measure- ment without returning any data.

The MEASure and READ commands are identical to combining the fol- lowing commands:

Command

Equivalent Commands

:MEASure :ABORt;:CONFigure;:READ

:READ:ABORt;:INITiate:IMMediate;:FETCh

A common programming error is to send the :READ command when the instrument is in the continuous measurement acquisition mode. Because :READ contains an :INIT:IMM command, which expects the single measurement acquisition mode, an error is generated, and the INIT command is ignored.

:FETCh command

The FETCh command returns data from previously performed mea- surements; it does not initiate the collection of new data. Because FETCh does not configure the instrument or acquire new input data, you can use FETCh repeatedly on the same set of acquired data. For example, use two FETCh commands to return wavelength and then power values for the same measurement. This is shown in the follow- ing program fragment:

OUTPUT 720;”:INIT:CONT OFF;”

OUTPUT 720;”:CONF:ARR:POW MAX”

OUTPUT 720;”:INIT:IMM”

OUTPUT 720;”:FETC:ARR:POW?”

ENTER 720:powers$

OUTPUT 720;”:FETC:ARR:POW:WAV?”

ENTER 720:wavelengths$

In the example above, the data in the power and wavelength arrays are returned in the same order so that powers can be matched to wave- lengths.

3-10

Page 87 Page 89
Page 88
Image 88
Agilent Technologies Agilent 86120C manual Read command, FETCh command
Page 87 Page 89

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.
Top Page Image Contents