A Brief Introduction to the SCPI Language

 

SCPI Language Basics

<trace>

Is an array of rational numbers corresponding to displayed trace data. See

 

FORMat:DATA for information about available data formats.

 

A SCPI command often refers to a block of current trace data with a variable name

 

such as: Trace1, TRACE2, or trace3, depending on which trace is being accessed.

<arbitrary block data> Consists of a block of data bytes. The first information sent in the block is an ASCII header beginning with #. The block is terminated with a semi-colon. The header can be used to determine how many bytes are in the data block. There are no units. (You do not get block data if your data type is ASCII, using FORMat:DATA ASCII command. Your data is comma separated ASCII values.

Block data example: suppose the header is #512320.

•The first digit in the header (5) tells you how many additional digits/bytes there are in the header.

•The 12320 means 12 thousand, 3 hundred, 20 data bytes follow the header.

•Divide this number of bytes by your current data format (bytes/data point), either 8 (for real,64), or 4 (for real,32). For this example, if you’re using real64 then there are 1540 points in the block.

Putting Multiple Commands on the Same Line

Multiple commands can be written on the same line, reducing your code space requirement. To do this:

•Commands must be separated with a semicolon (;).

•If the commands are in different subsystems, the key word for the new subsystem must be preceded by a colon (:).

•If the commands are in the same subsystem, the full hierarchy of the command key words need not be included. The second command can start at the same key word level as the command that was just executed.

SCPI Termination and Separator Syntax

All binary trace and response data is terminated with <NL><END>, as defined in Section 8.5 of IEEE Standard 488.2-1992, IEEE Standard Codes, Formats, Protocols and Common Commands for Use with ANSI/IEEE Std 488.1-1987. New York, NY, 1992. (Although one intent of SCPI is to be interface independent, <END> is only defined for IEEE 488 operation.)

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Agilent Technologies N9030a manual Putting Multiple Commands on the Same Line, Scpi Termination and Separator Syntax
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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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