A Brief Introduction to the SCPI Language

SCPI Language Basics

Variable Parameters

<integer>

is an integer value with no units.

<real>

Is a floating point number with no units.

<freq>

 

<bandwidth>

Is a positive rational number followed by optional units. The default unit is Hertz.

 

Acceptable units include: Hz, kHz, MHz, GHz.

<time>

 

<seconds>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are seconds.

 

Acceptable units include: ks, s, ms, us, ns.

<voltage>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are Volts.

 

Acceptable units include: V, mV, μV, nV

<current>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are Amperes.

 

Acceptable units include: A, mA, μA, nA.

<power>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are W. Acceptable

 

units include: mAW, kW, W, mW, μW, nW, pW.

<ampl>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are dBm.

 

Acceptable units include: dBm, dBmV, dBμV.

<rel_power>

 

<rel_ampl>

Is a positive rational number followed by optional units. The default units are dB.

 

Acceptable units include: dB.

<percent>

Is a rational number between 0 and 100. You can either use no units or use PCT.

<angle>

 

<degrees>

Is a rational number followed by optional units. The default units are degrees.

 

Acceptable units include: DEG, RAD.

<string>

Is a series of alpha numeric characters.

<bit_pattern>

Specifies a series of bits rather than a numeric value. The bit series is the binary

 

representation of a numeric value. There are no units.

 

Bit patterns are most often specified as hexadecimal numbers, though octal, binary or

 

decimal numbers may also be used. In the SCPI language these numbers are specified

 

as:

 

• Hexadecimal, #Hdddd or #hdddd where ‘d’ represents a hexadecimal digit 0 to 9

 

and ‘a’ to ‘f’. So #h14 can be used instead of the decimal number 20.

 

• Octal, #Odddddd or #odddddd where ‘d’ represents an octal digit 0 to 7. So #o24

 

can be used instead of the decimal number 20.

 

• Binary, #Bdddddddddddddddd or #bdddddddddddddddd where ‘d’ represents a 1

 

or 0. So #b10100 can be used instead of the decimal number 20.

Block Program Data

Some parameters consist of a block of data. There are a few standard types of block data. Arbitrary blocks of program data can also be used.

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Agilent Technologies N9030a manual Variable Parameters, Block Program Data
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N9030a specifications

Agilent Technologies, now known as Keysight Technologies, is recognized as a leader in providing advanced electronic measurement solutions. One of their highlighted products is the N9030A PXA X-Series Signal Analyser, a versatile instrument that caters to the needs of engineers and researchers in various fields, including telecommunications, aerospace, and defense.

The Agilent N9030A is designed to address the increasing complexity of modern signals. One of its standout features is its exceptional frequency range, spanning from 3 Hz to 50 GHz, making it suitable for both wideband and narrowband applications. This broad frequency coverage allows users to capture a wide array of signals, from low-frequency analog to high-frequency digital communications.

Another significant characteristic of the N9030A is its high dynamic range, which enables accurate measurements even in the presence of strong interfering signals. This capability is essential for testing and developing communication systems that operate in challenging environments, where signal integrity is paramount. The analyser also features a high sample rate of 5 GS/s, providing detailed resolution for even the most intricate signals.

The integrated measurement applications further enhance the instrument’s versatility, allowing for specific analyses related to modulation formats, spectral emissions, and time-domain events. Such applications streamline workflows and improve measurement efficiency, making it easier for users to obtain and interpret data.

One of the technological highlights of the N9030A is its advanced digital signal processing (DSP), which significantly improves measurement speed and performance. The DSP capabilities allow engineers to conduct real-time analysis, which is critical for applications that require immediate feedback, such as signal troubleshooting and validation.

The user-friendly interface of the N9030A, along with a myriad of connectivity options, ensures that integration into existing testing setups is seamless. Data can be easily exported to other software tools for further analysis, enhancing collaboration and report generation.

In conclusion, the Agilent N9030A PXA X-Series Signal Analyser stands out as a powerful tool for modern signal analysis. With its wide frequency range, high dynamic range, advanced DSP capabilities, and integrated measurement applications, it is tailored to meet the rigorous demands of today’s engineers and researchers. Whether for development, testing, or troubleshooting, the N9030A provides the performance and flexibility required for successful project outcomes.
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