Introduction to Programming

Programming and Syntax Diagram Conventions

Data Types

With the commands you give parameters to the instrument and receive response values from the instrument. Unless explicitly specified these data are given in ASCII format. The following types of data are used:

•Boolean data may only have the values 0 or 1.

•Integer range is given for each individual command.

•Float variables may be given in decimal or exponential writing (0.123 or 123E-3).

All Float values conform to the 32 bit IEEE Standard, that is, all Float values are returned as 32-bit real values.

•A string is contained between double quotes ("...") or single quotes

(‘...’). When the instrument returns a string, it is always included in " " and terminated by <END>.

•When a register value is given or returned (for example *ESE), the decimal values for the single bits are added. For example, a value of nine means that bit 0 and bit 3 are set.

•Larger blocks of data are given as Binary Blocks, preceded by

“#<H><Len><Block>”, terminated by <END>; <H> represents the number of digits, <Len> represents the number of bytes, and <Block> is the data block. For example, for a Binary Block with 1 digit and 6 bytes this is: #16TRACES<END>.

Slot and Channel Numbers

Each module is identified by a slot number and a channel number. For commands that require you to specify a channel, the slot number is represented by [n] in a command and the channel number is represented by [m].

The slot number represents the module’s position in the mainframe. These are:

•from one to two for the Agilent 8163A/B,

•from zero to four for the Agilent 8164A/B, and

•from one to seventeen for the Agilent 8166A/B.

These numbers are displayed on the front panel beside each module slot.

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Agilent 8163A/B, 8164A/B & 8166A/B Mainframes, Fifth Edition

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Agilent Technologies 8163A, B, 8166A, 8164A manual Data Types, Slot and Channel Numbers
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8163A, 8164A, 8166A, B specifications

Agilent Technologies B,86100A is a high-performance oscilloscope and signal integrity analyzer designed primarily for advanced digital communications applications. As a versatile tool, it supports a wide range of testing needs, making it indispensable for engineers and researchers involved in the development and testing of high-speed digital signals.

One of the standout features of the B,86100A is its capability to analyze signals with various bandwidths, accommodating both current and emerging communication standards. The device features a sampling rate of up to 80 GS/s and bandwidth capabilities of 33 GHz to ensure high accuracy in capturing fast signal transitions, which is critical for ensuring the integrity of complex digital signals.

The B,86100A employs Agilent's proprietary digital signal processing (DSP) technology, which significantly enhances measurement precision and reduces noise, enabling users to obtain clearer insights into signal behavior. Its advanced triggering capabilities allow for precise signal capture, making it particularly useful in troubleshooting and validating high-speed designs, as well as in evaluating the performance of optical and electrical devices.

In addition to its high-speed capabilities, the B,86100A offers a robust set of measurement tools including jitter analysis, eye diagram analysis, and equalization assessment. These features allow engineers to effectively analyze signal quality and address potential issues related to signaling distortions and inter-symbol interference.

The graphical user interface of the B,86100A is intuitive, enabling users to efficiently navigate through measurement options and visualize data results. Customizable measurement setups streamline workflow, ensuring that users can quickly adapt their tests to evolving project requirements.

Another key characteristic of the B,86100A is its modularity. The system supports a variety of plug-in modules, which can be tailored to specific application needs, such as different types of optical and electrical signals. This flexibility not only extends the operational capability of the instrument but also makes it a future-proof investment as technology continues to evolve.

In summary, Agilent Technologies B,86100A combines high-speed acquisition with advanced processing capabilities, making it an essential instrument for anyone involved in high-speed digital design and testing. With its ability to deliver precise measurements and extensive analysis features, it empowers engineers to achieve optimal performance and reliability in their systems.
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