Programming the Status Register System

Accessing Status Register Information

Accessing Status Register Information

1.Determine which register contains the bit that reports the condition. Refer to Figure 4- 1 on page 140 through Figure 4- 8 on page 147 for register location and names.

2.Send the unique SCPI query that reads that register.

3.Examine the bit to see if the condition has changed.

Determining What to Monitor

You can monitor the following conditions:

current signal generator hardware and firmware status

whether a particular condition (bit) has occurred

Monitoring Current Signal Generator Hardware and Firmware Status

To monitor the signal generator’s operating status, you can query the condition registers. These registers represent the current state of the signal generator and are updated in real time. When the condition monitored by a particular bit becomes true, the bit sets to 1. When the condition becomes false, the bit resets to 0.

Monitoring Whether a Condition (Bit) has Changed

The transition registers determine which bit transition (condition change) should be recorded as an event. The transitions can be positive to negative, negative to positive, or both. To monitor a certain condition, enable the bit associated with the condition in the associated positive and negative registers.

Once you have enabled a bit via the transition registers, the signal generator monitors it for a change in its condition. If this change in condition occurs, the corresponding bit in the event register will be set to 1. When a bit becomes true (set to 1) in the event register, it stays set until the event register is read or is cleared. You can thus query the event register for a condition even if that condition no longer exists.

To clear the event register, query its contents or send the *CLS command, which clears all event registers.

Monitoring When a Condition (Bit) Changes

Once you enable a bit, the signal generator monitors it for a change in its condition. The transition registers are preset to register positive transitions (a change going from 0 to 1). This can be changed so the selected bit is detected if it goes from true to false (negative transition), or if either transition occurs.

Deciding How to Monitor

You can use either of two methods described below to access the information in status registers (both methods allow you to monitor one or more conditions).

The polling method

In the polling method, the signal generator has a passive role. It tells the controller that conditions have changed only when the controller asks the right question. This is accomplished by a program loop that continually sends a query.

Agilent N518xA, E8663B, E44x8C, and E82x7D Signal Generators Programming Guide

149

Page 159
Image 159
Agilent Technologies E8663B Accessing Status Register Information, Determining What to Monitor, Deciding How to Monitor

N5183A, N5183A MXG, E8663B, N5181A/82A specifications

Agilent Technologies is renowned for its innovative solutions in electronic test and measurement equipment. Among its offerings are several signal generators including the N5181A, N5182A, E8663B, and N5183A MXG. These models are distinguished not only by their performance but also by their versatility across various applications in communications, aerospace, and electronics.

The Agilent N5181A and N5182A, part of the MXG family, are highly versatile signal generators known for their exceptional frequency performance and flexibility. The N5181A operates from 100 kHz to 6 GHz, while the N5182A extends that range up to 12 GHz. They provide high fidelity signals with low phase noise, making them ideal for the development and testing of RF components and systems. These generators support a wide variety of modulation formats, including AM, FM, PM, and pulse modulation, catering to diverse application needs.

The E8663B, meanwhile, is designed for the range of 250 kHz to 3 GHz and is also recognized for its high-performance features. Its built-in capabilities for modulation make it effective for testing wireless devices, ensuring that signals can be simulated accurately in both laboratory and field environments. It is especially beneficial for users requiring a straightforward and efficient solution with high reliability.

The N5183A MXG signal generator enhances the lineup with frequency coverage up to 6 GHz and advanced capabilities. It integrates various modulation capabilities while ensuring high signal integrity. Its architecture is tailored for both production test environments and research applications, providing users with the flexibility to adapt to changing testing requirements.

Common characteristics across these models include a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and operation. They are often equipped with LAN and USB interfaces for easy remote control and integration into automated test systems. The robustness of these generators allows them to perform reliably in challenging environments, making them essential tools in laboratories, manufacturing floors, and field testing scenarios.

In summary, Agilent's signal generators, including the N5181A, N5182A, E8663B, and N5183A MXG, represent a blend of advanced technology, flexibility, and precision. These instruments are vital in facilitating the evolution of cutting-edge communication technologies, ensuring that designers and engineers can confidently meet the demands of modern electronics.