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SCPI Introduction

Chapter2 SCPI Introduction

2.1 SCPI Introduction

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is a programming

language for controlling instrument functions over the GPIB and RS-232 and

usb and ethernet interface. SCPI is layered on top of the hardware-portion of

IEEE 488.2. The same SCPI commands and parameters control the same

functions in different classes of instruments.

Conventions Used in This Guide:

Angle brackets < > Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations.

For example, <NR1> indicates a specific form of numerical data.

Vertical bar | Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example,

NORM | TEXT indicates that either "TEXT" or "NORM" can be used as a

parameter.

Square Brackets [ ] Items within square brackets are optional. The

representation [SOURce:] VOLTage means that SOURce: may be omitted.

Braces { } Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more times.

It is used especially for showing arrays. The notation <A>{<,B>} shows that

parameter "A" must be entered, while parameter "B" may be omitted or may be

entered one or more times.

2.2 Types of SCPI Commands

SCPI has two types of commands, common and subsystem.

 Common commands generally are not related to specific operation but to

controlling overall electronic load functions, such as reset, status, and

synchronization. All common commands consist of a three-letter mnemonic

preceded by an asterisk: *RST *IDN? *SRE 8

 Subsystem commands perform specific electronic load functions. They are

organized into an inverted tree structure with the "root" at the top. The

following figure shows a portion of a subsystem command tree, from which

you access the commands located along the various paths.

ITech IT8700 Series Programming Guide

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