3-2 Remote Operation Model 6517A Getting Started Manual
Overview
For remote operation, the Model 6517A can use the IEEE-488 interface or the RS-232
interface. Common commands and SCPI commands can be used with either interface.
For IEEE-488 operation, you can select the DDC language mode. In this mode, you use
device-dependent commands (DDCs) instead of command commands and SCPI com-
mands. This mode allows you to use the Model 6517A as a “drop-in” replacement for the
Model 617 Electrometer. Existing programs written for the Model 617 can be used by the
Model 6517A without having to make any code modifications. Appendix G of the User’s
Manual lists the DDCs for the Model 6517A.
Software support
The following software tools are included with the Model 6517A:
TestPoint application software
There are two run-time TestPoint applications on the supplied disk. One of the applica-
tions utilizes an optional scanner card and the other is a complex interactive application.
Among the many operations, the interactive application allows you to select function and
range, make measurements, store readings in the buffer, graph the results, and/or export
the data to a Microsoft Windows Excel file. These run-time applications are compatible
with any PC using Windows 3.0 or higher, and require the use of a Keithley KPC-488
series interface card. A TestPoint library for the Model 6517A is included, so that these
applications can be readily customized using TestPoint.
Demonstration/Startup programs
Five QuickBASIC example programs are included on the TestPoint disk to familiarize you
with the use of SCPI commands.
LabView driver
This driver allows you to use the Model 6517A with the National Instruments LabView
package and is free upon request. Contact the Keithley Applications group for details
(1-800-348-3735).