HP 16533A, 16534A Programmer's Manual

Programmer’s Guide

Publication number 16534-97004
First edition, August 1995

For Safety information, Warranties, and Regulatory
information, see the pages behind the index

 Copyright Hewlett-Packard Company 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995
All Rights Reserved

HP 16533A 1-GSa/s and
HP 16534A 2-GSa/s Digitizing
Oscilloscope

In This Book

Programming the HP 16533/34A

1

This guide, combined with the HP
16500B/16501A Programmer’s Guide,

provides you with the information needed
to program the HP 16533/34A
oscilloscope module. Each module has
its own reference to supplement the
mainframe manual since not all
mainframes will be configured with the
same modules.

Chapter 1 contains:

Mainframe system commands that are

•

frequently used with the oscilloscope
module

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope command

•

tree
Alphabetic command-to-subsystem

•

directory

Chapter 2 contains module level
commands.

Chapters 3 through 10 contain the
subsystem commands for the oscilloscope.

Chapter 11 contains program examples of
actual tasks that show you how to get
started in programming the HP
16533/34A oscilloscope. These examples
are written in HP BASIC 6.2; however,
the program concepts can be used in any
other popular programming language that
allows communications with either the
HP-IB or RS-232C buses.

Error messages for the HP 16533/34A are
included in generic system error
messages and are in the HP
16500B/16501A Programmer’s Guide.

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Module Level Commands

ACQuire Subsystem

CHANnel Subsystem

DISPlay Subsystem

MARKer Subsystem

MEASure Subsyste m

TIMebase Subsystem

TRIGger Subsystem

WAVeform Subsyste m

Programming Exa mples

Index

iii

iv

Contents

1 Programming the HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Introduction 1–2

Selecting the Module 1–3
Setting up an Oscilloscope 1–3
Mainframe Commands 1–5
Command Set Organization 1–9
Module Status Reporting 1–10
MESE <N> 1–11
MESR <N>? 1–13

2 Module Level Commands

AUToscale 2–3
DIGitize 2–4
VARiation 2–5

3 ACQuire Subsystem

Introduction 3–2

COUNt 3–4
TYPE 3–5

4 CHANnel Subsystem

COUPling 4–5
ECL 4–6
OFFSet 4–7
PROBe 4–8
RANGe 4–9
TTL 4–10

Contents–1

Contents

5 DISPlay Subsystem

ACCumulate 5–4
CONNect 5–4
INSert 5–5
LABel 5–7
MINus 5–8
OVERlay 5–8
PLUS 5–9
REMove 5–9

6 MARKer Subsystem

Introduction 6–2

AVOLt 6–6
ABVolt? 6–7
BVOLt 6–7
CENTer 6–8
MSTats 6–8
OAUTo 6–9
OTIMe 6–10
RUNTil 6–11
SHOW 6–12
TAVerage? 6–12
TMAXimum? 6–13
TMINimum? 6–13
TMODe 6–14
VMODe 6–15
VOTime? 6–16
VRUNs? 6–16
VXTime? 6–17
XAUTo 6–18
XOTime? 6–19
XTIMe 6–19

Contents–2

7 MEASure Subsystem

Introduction 7–2

ALL? 7–5
FALLtime? 7–6
FREQuency? 7–6
NWIDth? 7–7
OVERshoot? 7–7
PERiod? 7–8
PREShoot? 7–8
PWIDth? 7–9
RISetime? 7–9
SOURce 7–10
VAMPlitude? 7–11
VBASe? 7–11
VMAX? 7–12
VMIN? 7–12
VPP? 7–13
VTOP? 7–13

Contents

8 TIMebase Subsystem

DELay 8–4
MODE 8–5
RANGe 8–6

9 TRIGger Subsystem

CONDition 9–5
DELay 9–7
LEVel 9–8
LOGic 9–10
MODE 9–11
PATH 9–12
SLOPe 9–12
SOURce 9–13

Contents–3

Contents

10 WAVeform Subsystem

Format for Data Transfer 10–4
Data Conversion 10–6
COUNt? 10–9
DATA? 10–9
FORMat 10–10
POINts? 10–10
PREamble? 10–11
RECord 10–12
SOURce 10–12
SPERiod? 10–13
TYPE? 10–13
VALid? 10–14
XINCrement? 10–15
XORigin? 10–16
XREFerence? 10–16
YINCrement? 10–17
YORigin? 10–17
YREFerence? 10–18

11 Programming Examples

Introduction 11–2

Digitizing Waveform Data 11–3
Using the MEASURE ALL? Query 11–4
Combined Measurement Example 11–5

Contents–4

1

Programming the HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Introduction

This chapter introduces you to the basic command structure used to
program the oscilloscope. Also included is an example program that
displays a waveform and makes automatic parametric measurements.
Additional program examples are in chapter 11.

1–2

Programming the

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Selecting the Module

Selecting the Module

Before you can program the oscilloscope, you must first "select" it, otherwise,
there is no way to direct your commands to the oscilloscope.

To select the module, use the system command :SELect followed by the
numeric reference for the slot location of the oscilloscope (1...10 refers to
slot A...J respectively). For example, if the oscilloscope card is in slot E, then
the command:

:SELect 5

would select this module. For a multi-card configuration you would select
the topmost card slot of the multi-card configuration. For more information
on the select command, refer to the HP 16500B/16501A Programmer’s
Guide.

Setting up an Oscilloscope

The easiest and fastest way to set up the oscilloscope is to use the
AUTOSCALE command. The AUTOSCALE command causes the
oscilloscope to automatically select the vertical sensitivity, vertical offset,
trigger source, trigger level and timebase settings for optimum viewing of any
input signals. The trigger source is the lowest channel on which the trigger
was found. If no signal is found, the oscilloscope defaults to auto-trigger.

To demonstrate a quick oscilloscope setup, we will use the AC CAL signal
available at the rear panel of the card. This square wave is normally used for
calibration and probe compensation.

Connect the CAL OUTPUT signal from the rear panel output connector to
CHAN 1, also on the rear panel. Ensure that the mainframe is connected to a
controller. Enter the program listed on the next page and execute it.

1–3

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Setting up an Oscilloscope

Example 10 OUTPUT XXX;":SELECT 5"

20 OUTPUT XXX;":AUTOSCALE"
25 WAIT 5
30 DI M Me$[200]
40 OUTPUT ;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHANNEL1;ALL?"
50 EN TER XXX;Me$
60 PR INT Me$
70 END

The three Xs (XXX) after the OUTPUT an d ENTER statemen ts in the above
example refer to the device address required for programming over either
HP-IB or RS-232-C. Refer to your controller manual and programming language
reference manual for information on initializing the interface.

Program Comments

Line 10 selects the oscilloscope in slot E.
Line 20 causes the oscilloscope to execute the AUTOSCALE command.
Line 25 causes the oscilloscope to wait 5 seconds (the time you allow

for the measurement to be complete).
Line 30 dimensions and reserves memory for the string array.
Line 40 causes the oscilloscope to make all the parametric

measurements of the Measure subsystem. The source for the
measurements is channel 1.

Line 50 enters data from the oscilloscope.
Line 60 causes the data to be printed either on controller screen or

hardcopy, depending on the output device chosen.

For more information on the specific oscilloscope commands, refer to
chapters 2 through 10 of this manual.

1–4

Programming the

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Mainframe Commands

Mainframe Commands

These commands are part of the HP 16500B/16501A mainframe system and
are mentioned here only for reference. For more information on these
commands, refer to the HP 16500B/16501A Programmer’s Guide.

CARDcage?

The CARDcage query returns a series of integers which identify the modules
that are installed in the mainframe. The returned string is in two parts. The
first five two-digit numbers identify the card type. The identification number
for the both the HP 16533A and the HP 16534A oscilloscope is 14. Use the
VARiation query to identify the card. A "-1" in the first part of the string
indicates no card is installed in the slot.

The five single-digit numbers in the second part of the string indicate which
slots have cards installed, which card has the controlling software for the
module, and where the master card is located.

Example

For an HP 16500B Mainframe without the HP 16501A Expander:

1,14 ,-1,-1,31,0, 2,0,0, 5

The first five numbers of the returned string of -1,14,-1,-1,31,0,2,0,0,5 means:
Slot A is empty (-1).

The oscilloscope (ID number 14) is loaded in slot B.
The next two slots (C and D) are empty (-1).
Slot E contains a logic analyzer module (ID number 31).

The next group of numbers (0,2,0,0,5) mean:
Either Slot A is empty (0), the module software is not recognized, or the

module software is not loaded.
A single card module is installed in slot B.
Either slots C and D (0) are empty, the module software is not recognized, or
the module software is not loaded.
The last digit (5) in this group indicates that a single module card is loaded in
slot E.

Complete information for the CARDcage query is in the HP 16500B/16501A
Programmer’s Guide.

1–5

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Mainframe Commands

MENU

The MENU command selects the menu to be displayed on the screen. The
first parameter specifies the desired module. The optional second parameter
specifies the desired menu in the module (defaults to 0 if not specified).

For the HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope:

X,0 - Channel Menu

•

X,1 - Trigger Menu

•

X,2 - Display Menu

•

X,3 - Auto-Measure Menu

•

X,4 - Marker Menu

•

X,5 - Calibration Menu

•

X = slot number that contains the oscilloscope card

MENU?

The MENU query returns the currently selected (and displayed) menu.

SELect

The SELect command selects which module or intermodule will have parser
control. SELect 0 selects system/intermodule, and assuming the HP 16501B
extender is being used, SELect 1 through 10 selects modules A through J
respectively. Parameters -1 and -2 select software options 1 and 2.

SELect ?

The SELect query returns the currently selected module.

STARt

The STARt command starts the selected module or intermodule. If the
selected module is configured for intermodule, STARt will start all modules
configured for intermodule.

STOP

1–6

Programming the

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Mainframe Commands

The STOP command stops the selected module or intermodule. If the
selected module is configured for intermodule, STOP will stop all modules
configured for intermodule.

RMODe

The RMODe command specifies the run mode (either single or repetitive) for
a module or intermodule. If the selected module is configured for
intermodule, the intermodule run mode will be set by this command.

RMODe?

The RMODe query returns the current setting.

SYSTem:ERRor?

The SYSTem:ERRor query returns the oldest error in the error queue. In
order to return all the errors in the error queue, a simple FOR/NEXT loop can
be written to query the queue until all errors are returned. Once all errors
are returned, the queue will return zeros.

SYSTem:PRINt

The SYSTem:PRINt command initiates a print of the screen or listing buffer
over the current printer communication interface.

SYSTem:PRINt?

The SYSTem:PRINt query sends the screen or listing buffer data over the
current controller communication interface.

MMEMory Subsystem

The MMEMory Subsystem commands provide access to both internal disc
drives for loading and storing configurations.

INTermodule Subsystem

The INTermodule Subsystem commands are used to specify intermodule
arming between multiple modules.

1–7

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Mainframe Commands

Table 1-1. Alphabetical Command to Subsystem Directory

1–8

Figure 1-1

Programming the

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Command Set Organization

Command Set Organization

The command set for the HP 16533/34A is divided into module level
commands and subsystem commands. Module level commands are listed in
Chapter 2 and each of the subsystem commands are covered in their
individual chapters starting with Chapter 3.

Each of these chapters contain a description of the subsystem, syntax
diagrams and the commands in alphabetical order. The commands are
shown in longform and shortform using upper and lowercase letters. For
example, TRIGger indicates that the longform of the command is TRIGGER
and the shortform is TRIG. Each of the commands contains a description of
the command and its arguments, the command syntax, and a programming
example.

Figure 1-1 is the command tree for the HP 16533/34A oscilloscope module.

HP 16533/34A Command Tree

1–9

Figure 1-2

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

Module S tatus R eporting

Module Status Reporting

Each module reports its status to the Module Event Status Register (MESR)
which in turn reports to the Combined Event Status Register (CESR) in the
HP 16500B/16501A mainframe (see HP 16500B/16501A Programmer’s
Guide, Chapter 6). The Module Event Status Register is enabled by the
Module Event Status Enable Register (MESE).

The following descriptions of the MESE and MESR commands provide the
module specific information needed to enable and interpret the contents of
the registers.

Module Status Reporting

1–10

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

MESE <N>

Command :MESE<N> <enable_mask>

The MESE <N> command sets the Module Event Status Enable register bits.
The MESE register contains a mask value for the bits enabled in the MESR
register. A one in the MESE register will enable the corresponding bit in the
MESR, a zero will disable the bit.

The first parameter specifies the module, and the second parameter specifies
the enable value. 1...10 refers to the module in slot A...J.

Refer to table 1-2 for information about the Module Event Status Enable
register bits, bit weights, and what each bit masks for the module.

Programming the

MESE <N>

<N>

<enable_mask> integer 0 to 255

Example: OUT PUT XXX;":MESE 5 2"

Query :MESE<N>?

Returned Format:

Example: 10 OUTPUT XXX;":MESE5?"

{1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9|10} number of slot where the module resides

The MESE query returns the current setting.

[MESE]<enable_mask><NL>

20 ENTER XXX; Mes
30 PR INT Mes
40 END

1–11

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

MESE <N>

Table 1-2. Module Event S tatus Register

Bit Weight Enables

7 128 Not used
6 64 Not used
5 32 Not used
4 16 Number of averages met
3 8 Auto triggered
2 4 Trigger received
1 2 RNT-Run until satisfied
0 1 MC-Measurement complete

The Module Event Status Enable Register contains a mask value for the bits
to be enabled in the Module Event Status Register (MESR). A one in the
MESE enables the corresponding bit in the MESR, a zero disables the bit.

1–12

HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

MESR <N>?

Query :MESR<N> ?

The MESR query returns the contents of the Module Event Status register.
Table 1-3 shows each bit in the Module Event Status Register and their bit

weights for this module. When you read the MESR, the value returned is the
total bit weights of all bits that are high at the time the register is read.

The parameter 1...10 refers to the module in slot A...J respectively.

Reading the reg ister clears the Module Event Status Register.

Programming the

MESR <N>?

Returned Format:

<N>

<status> integer 0 to 255

Example: 10 OUTPUT XXX;":MESR5?"

[MESR<N>]<status><NL>

{1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9|10} number of slot where the module resides

20 ENTER XXX; Mer
30 PR INT Mer
40 END

1–13

Table 1-3.

Programming the
HP 16533/34A Oscilloscope Module

MESR <N>?

Module Event Status Register

Bit Weight Condition

7 128 Not used
6 64 Not used
5 32 Not used
4 16 1=Number of averages satisfied

0=Number of averages not satisfied

3 8 1=Auto triggered received

0=Auto triggered not received

2 4 1=Trigger received

0=Trigger not received

1 2 1=Run until satisfied

0=Run until not satisfied

0 1 1=Measurement complete

0=Measurement not complete

1–14

2

Module Level Commands

Introduction

Oscilloscope Module Level commands control the basic operation of the
oscilloscope. Refer to figure 2-1 for the module level syntax command
diagram. The HP 16533/34A Module Level commands are:

AUToscale

•

DIGitize

•

VARiation

•

2–2

Figure 2-1

Module Level Command Synt ax Diagram

AUToscale

Command :AUToscale

Module Lev el Commands

AUToscale

The AUToscale command causes the oscilloscope to automatically select the
vertical sensitivity, vertical offset, trigger source, trigger level and timebase
settings for optimum viewing of any input signals. The trigger source is the
lowest channel on which the trigger was found. If no trigger is found, the
oscilloscope defaults to auto-trigger. The display window configuration is not
altered by AUToscale.

Example: OUTPUT XXX;":AU TOSCAL E"

2–3

Module Level Commands

DIGitize

DIGitize

Command :DIGitiz e

The DIGitize command is used to acquire waveform data for transfer over
HP-IB. The command initiates the Repetitive Run for the oscilloscope and
any modules that are grouped together in Group Run through the
Intermodule Bus. If a RUNtil condition has been specified in any module, the
oscilloscope and the grouped modules will acquire data until the RUNtil
conditions have been satisfied.

The Acquire subsystem commands may be used to set up conditions such as
acquisition type and average count for the DIGitize command. See the
Acquire subsystem for the description of these commands.

When a count number in the average acquisition type has been specified, the
oscilloscope and all grouped modules will acquire data until these conditions
have been satisfied.

When both the RUNtil and the ACQuire:COUNt have been satisfied, the
acquisition will stop.

For a faster data transfer rate over the interface bus, diaplay a menu that has
no waveforms on screen.

The DIGitize co mmand is an overlap command, thus ensure that all data has
been acquired and stored in the channel buffers before executing any other
commands. The MESE command and the MESR query may be used to check
for run complete or a WAIt instruction may be inserted after the DIGitize
command to ens ure enough time for command execution.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DIGI TIZE"

An example using the DIGitize command can be found in Chapter 11,
"Programming Ex amples."

2–4

VARiation

Query :VARiati on?

The VARiation query is used to return the specific 32K sample scope board
variation at this cardslot location. The return value is a string with the scope
model number.

Recall that the Mainframe Query, CARDcage? is used to determine the card
type installed in a specific card slot (see section 1 of this manual). The card
type for both the HP 16533A and the HP 16534A is 14.

If multiple scope cards are connected together to create a scope module with
greater than two channels, only the master card (top-most card) variation is
returned.

Returned Format [:VARiation] {16533 | 16534}

Example OUT PUT XXX;":VARi ation? "

Module Lev el Commands

VARiation

2–5

2–6

3

ACQuire Subsystem

Introduction

The Acquire Subsystem commands are used to set up acquisition
conditions for the DIGitize command. The subsystem contains
commands to select the type of acquisition and the number of
averages to be taken if the average type is chosen. Refer to Figure 3-1
for the ACQuire Subsystem Syntax Diagram. The ACQuire Subsystem
commands are:

COUNt

•

TYPE

•

3–2

Figure 3-1

ACQuire Subsystem Syntax Diagram

Table 3-1 ACQuire Parameter Values

Parameter Value

count_arg An integer that specifies the

ACQuire Subsys tem

number of averag es to be taken of
each time point. The choices are
2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, or 256.

Acquisition Type Normal

In the Normal mode, with the ACCumulate command OFF, the oscilloscope
acquires waveform data and then displays the waveform. When the
oscilloscope makes a new acquisition, the previously acquired waveform is
erased from the display and replaced by the newly acquired waveform. When
the ACCumulate command is ON, the oscilloscope displays all the waveform
acquisitions without erasing the previously acquired waveform.

Acquisition Type Average

In the Average mode, the oscilloscope averages the data points on the
waveform with previously acquired data. Averaging helps eliminate random
noise from the displayed waveform. In this mode the ACCumulate command
is OFF. When Average mode is selected, the number of averages must also
be specified using the COUNt command. Previously averaged waveform data
is erased from the display and the newly averaged waveform is displayed.

3–3

ACQuire Subsys tem

COUNt

COUNt

Command :ACQuire:COUNt <count>

The COUNt command specifies the number of acquisitions for the running
weighted average. This command generates an error if Normal acquisition
mode is specified.

<count>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":ACQU IRE:CO UNT 16"

Query :ACQuire:COUNt?

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":ACQ: COUN?"

{2|4|8|16|32|64|128|256}

The COUNt query returns the last specified count.

[:ACQuire:COUNt] <count><NL>

3–4

TYPE

Command :ACQ uire :TYP E {N ORMa l|AV ERage}

The TYPE command selects the type of acquisition that is to take place
when a DIGitize or STARt command is executed. One of two acquisition
types may be chosen: the NORMal or AVERage mode.

Example OUTPUT XXX;":ACQUIRE:TYPE NORMAL"

Query :ACQuire:TYPE?

The TYPE query returns the last specified type.

Returned Format

[:AC Qu ir e:TYPE] {NOR Mal|AVERag e}<NL>

ACQuire Subsys tem

TYPE

Example O UTPUT XX X;":AC QUIRE:TYPE?"

3–5

3–6

4

CHANnel Subsystem

Introduction

The Channel Subsystem commands control the channel display and
the vertical axis of the oscilloscope. Each channel must be
programmed independently for all offset, range and probe functions.
When ECL or TTL commands are executed, the vertical range, offset
and trigger levels are automatically set for optimum viewing. Refer to
figure 4-1 for the CHANnel Subsystem Syntax Diagram. The
CHANnel Subsystem commands are:

COUPling

•

ECL

•

OFFSet

•

PROBe

•

RANGe

•

TTL

•

4–2

Figure 4-1

CHANnel Subsystem

CHANnel Subsystem Syntax Diagram

4–3

CHANnel Subsystem

Table 4-1 CHANnel Parameter Values

Parameter Value

channel_number An integer from 1 through 8, depending on how man y

offset_arg a real number defining the voltage at the center of the

Vertical Sensitivity Vertical Range Offset Voltage

4 mV - 100 mV/div 16 mV - 400 mV
>100 mV - 400 mV/div >400 mV - 1.6 V
>400 mV - 2.5 V/div >1.6 V - 10 V
>2.5 V - 10 V/div >10 V - 40 V

probe_arg an integer from 1 through 1000, specifying the probe

range_arg a real number specifying vertical sensitivity. The allowable

oscilloscope cards are installed as a single unit (chained
together).

display. The offset range is as follows (for a 1:1 probe
setting):

±2 V
±10 V
±50 V
±250 V

attenuation wit h respect to 1.

range is 16 mV to 40 V for a probe attenuation of 1. The
specified range is equal to 4 times Volts/Div.

4–4

COUPling

Command :CHANnel<N>:COUPling {DC|AC|DCFifty}

The COUPling command sets the input impedance for the selected channel.
The choices are 1M Ohm DC (DC), 1M Ohm AC (AC), or 50 Ohms DC
(DCFifty).

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2.

Example OUTPUT XXX;":CH ANNEL1 :COUPL ING DC"

Query :CHANnel<N>:COUPling?

The COUPling query returns the current input impedance for the specified
channel.

Returned Format [:CHAN ne l<N>:C OUPling:] {DC|AC |DCFifty}< NL>

CHANnel Subsystem

COUPling

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:C OUPLIN G?"

4–5

CHANnel Subsystem

ECL

ECL

Command :CHANnel <N>:ECL

The ECL command sets the vertical range, offset, and trigger levels for the
selected input channel for optimum viewing of ECL signals. The set ECL:
values are:

Range: 2.0 V (500 mV per division)
Offset: -1.3 V
Trigger level: -1.3 V

<N> An integer from 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope

connected as one unit (maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum
number of channels is 2.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:E CL"

To return to "Preset User", change the CHANnel:RANGe, CHANnel:OFFSet, or
TRIGger:L EVel value.

4–6

OFFSet

Command :CHANnel<N>:OFFSet <value>

The OFFSet command sets the voltage that is represented at center screen
for the selected channel. The allowable offset voltage <value> is shown in
the table below. The table represents values for a Probe setting of 1:1. The
offset value is recompensated whenever the probe attenuation factor is
changed.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2.

<value> allowable offset voltage value shown in the table below.

Vertical Range Offset Vol tage

16 mV - 400 mV
>400 mV - 1.6 V
>1.6 V - 10 V
>10 V - 40 V

±2 V
±10 V
±50 V
±250 V

CHANnel Subsystem

OFFSet

Example OUTPUT XXX;":CHAN1:OFFS 1.5"

Query :CHANnel<N>:OFFSet?

The OFFSet query returns the current value for the selected channel.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2.

Returned Format

[:CHANnel<N>:OFFSet] <value><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:O FFSET? "

4–7

CHANnel Subsystem

PROBe

PROBe

Command :CHA Nnel <N>: PR OBe <a tten >

The PROBe command specifies the attenuation factor for an external probe
connected to a channel. The command changes the channel voltage
references such as range, offset, trigger level and automatic measurements.
The actual sensitivity is not changed at the channel input. The allowable
probe attenuation factor is an integer from 1 to 1000.

<N> An integer from 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope

connected as one unit (maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum
number of channels is 2.

<atten> An integer from 1 to 1000

Example OUTPUT XXX;":CHAN1:PROB 10"

Query :CHANnel<N>:PROBe?

The PROBe query returns the probe attenuation factor for the selected
channel.

Returned Format [:CHANnel<N>:PROBe]<atten><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:P ROBE?"

4–8

RANGe

Command :CHA Nnel <N>: RA NGe <r ange >

The RANGe command defines the full-scale (4 times the Volts/Div) vertical
axis of the selected channel. The values for the RANGe command are
dependent on the current probe attenuation factor for the selected channel.
The allowable range for a probe attenuation factor of 1:1 is 16 mV to 40 V.
For a larger probe attenuation factor, multiply the range limit by the probe
attenuation factor.

<N> An integer from 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope

connected as one unit (maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum
number of channels is 2.

<range> 16 mV to 40 V for a probe attenuation factor of 1:1

Example OUTPUT XXX;":CHANNEL1:RANGE 4.8"

CHANnel Subsystem

RANGe

Query :CHANnel<N>:RANGe?

The RANGe query returns the current range setting.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:R ANGE?"

[:CH AN ne l<N>:RANGe ] <range><NL >

4–9

CHANnel Subsystem

TTL

TTL

Command :CHANnel<N>:TTL

The TTL command sets the vertical range, offset, and trigger level for the
selected input channel for optimum viewing of TTL signals. The set TTL
values are:

Range: 6.0 V (1.50 V per division)
Offset: 2.5 V
Trigger Level: 1.62 V

<N> An integer 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected

as one unit (maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of
channels is 2.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":CHAN NEL1:T TL"

To return to "Preset User" change the CHANnel:RANGe, CHANel:OFFSet, or
TRIGger:L EVel value.

4–10

5

DISPlay Subsystem

Introduction

The Display Subsystem is used to control the display of data. Refer to
Figure 5-1 for the DISPlay Subsystem Syntax Diagram. The DISPlay
Subsystem commands are:

ACCumulate

•

CONNect

•

INSert

•

LABel

•

MINus

•

OVERlay

•

PLUS

•

REMove

•

5–2

Figure 5-1

DISPlay Subsys te m

DISPlay Subsystem Syntax Diagr am

Table 5-1 DISPlay Parameter Values

Parameter Value

slot_# a number from 1 through 10 identifying the oscilloscope

bit_id an integer from 0 to 31.
channel_# an integer from 1 through 8 depending on how many

label_str up to five characters enclosed in single quotes making up a

label_id a string of 1 alpha and 1 numeric character for the

card slot.

oscilloscope modules are installed as a single unit.

label name.

oscilloscope, or 6 characters for the timing modules.

5–3

DISPlay Subsys te m

ACCumulate

ACCumulate

Command :DIS Play :ACC um ulat e {{ON |1}|{OFF |0}}

The ACCumulate command works in conjunction with the commands in the
Acquisition Subsystem. In the Normal mode, the ACCumulate command
turns the infinite persistence on or off.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:AC C ON"

Query :DISPLAY:ACCumulate?

The ACCumulate query reports if accumulate is turned on or off.

Returned Format

[:DI SP la y:ACCumula te] {1|0}<NL >

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:AC CUMULA TE?"

CONNect

Command :DISPlay:CONNect {{ON|1}|{OFF|0}}

The CONNect command sets the Connect Dots mode. When ON, each
displayed sample dot will be connected to the adjacent dot by a straight line.
The waveform is easier to see in this mode. When OFF, only the sampling
points will be displayed.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:CO NNECT ON "

5–4

Query :DISPlay:CONNect?

The CONNect query reports if connect is on or off.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:CO NNECT? "

[:DISPlay:CONNect] {1|0}<NL>

INSert

The INSert command inserts waveforms into the current display.
Time-correlated waveforms from another oscilloscope module, logic analyzer
or high speed timing module may also be added to the current display. The
waveforms are added just below any currently displayed signals. Only eight
oscilloscope waveforms can be displayed at any time.

The first parameter is optional and specifies the module from where the
waveform is to be taken. The module number is the same as the slot number
in which the master card is installed. If a module is not specified, the current
module is assumed. The second parameter is the label of the waveform that
is to be added to the current display. The label names depend on the slot in
which the acquisition cards are installed. The example of figure 5-2 shows
the labeling scheme for eight oscilloscope channels (four oscilloscope cards).

DISPlay Subsys te m

INSert

Figure 5-2

Oscilloscope Label Identification

5–5

Command

DISPlay Subsys te m

INSert

To insert a waveform from the oscilloscope to the oscilloscope display:

:DISPlay:INSert [<module number>,]<label>

<module
number>

<label> string of 1 alpha and 1 numeric character enclosed by single quotes

Example OUTPUT XXX;":DISPLAY:INSERT ’C1’"

Command :DIS Play :INS er t <slo t no>, <label>, <bit -i d>

<slot no> card slot number of the module from which waveform is to be taken

<label> string of up to 6 alphanumeric characters enclosed by single quotes

<bit-id> integer from 0 to 31

Example :OUTPUT XXX;":DISPLAY:INSERT 4,’WAVE’,10"

slot in which oscilloscope master card is installed

To insert a waveform from a logic analyzer or high speed timing module to
the oscilloscope display:

For a complete explanation of the label name and the <bit-id> , refer to the
Programmer’s Guide of the logic analyzer or timing analyzer being used.

5–6

LABel

Command :DISPla y:LABel CHANnel<N>,< label_string>

The LABel command is used to assign a label string to an oscilloscope
channel. For single channel traces, the label string (up to five characters)
appears on the left of the waveform area of the display. Note that the label
string cannot be used in place of the channel number when programming the
oscilloscope module.

<N> an integer from 1 to 8 depending on the number of oscilloscope modules

installed as a single unit

<label_str> a string of up to five characters enclosed in single quotes

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:LA BEL CHAN NEL1,’ CLK’"

DISPlay Subsys te m

LABel

Query :DIS Play :LAB el ? CHAN nel< N>

The LABel query returns the label string assigned to the specified channel. If
no label has been assigned, the default channel identifier (single character
and single number) is returned.

Returned Format

Example OUTPUT XXX;":DISPLAY:LABEL? CHANNEL2"

[:D ISPlay:LABel ] CHANne l<N>,< label_ str><N L>

5–7

DISPlay Subsys te m

MINus

MINus

Command :DISPla y:MINus [<module_num ber>,]<label>,<lab el>

The MINus command algebraically subtracts one channel from another and
inserts the resultant waveform to the display. Note that both channels must
in the same oscilloscope module. The first parameter is an optional module
specifier. The module is identified by the slot number that contains the
oscilloscope master card. If a module is not specified, the current module is
assumed. The next two parameters are the label of the waveform selected to
be added to the display. The label names are defined in the same manner as
the INSert command.

<module_

number>

<label> string of 1 alpha and 1 numeric character enclosed by single quotes

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:MI NUS 3,’C 1’,’C2 ’"

slot number in which oscilloscope master card is installed

OVERlay

Command :DISPla y:OVERlay <label>,<l abel>[,<label>...]

The OVERlay command overlays oscilloscope waveforms. The syntax
parameters are the labels of the waveforms that are to be overlaid. Only
waveforms sharing a common master card can be overlaid. A label may be
used only once with each OVERlay command.

<label> string of 1 alpha and 1 numeric character enclosed by single quotes

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:OV ERLAY ’C 1’,’C2 ’"

or
OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:OV ERLAY ’C 1’,’C2 ’,’B1’ ,’B2’"

5–8

DISPlay Subsys te m

PLUS

Command :DIS Play :PLU S [< modu le_n umber>,] <lab el >,<l abel >

The PLUS command algebraically adds two channels and inserts the
resultant waveform to the current display. Note that both channels must in
the same oscilloscope module. The first parameter is an optional module
specifier and needs to be used only if another module is displayed. The next
parameters are the labels of the waveform that are to be added.

PLUS

<module_

number>

<label> string of 1 alpha and 1 numeric character enclosed by single quotes

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:PL US 2,’B1 ’,’B2’ "

slot number in which oscilloscope master card is installed

REMove

Command :DISPlay:REMove

The REMove command removes all displayed waveforms from the current
display.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":DISP LAY:RE MOVE"

5–9

5–10

6

MARKer Subsystem

Introduction

In addition to automatic parametric measurements, the oscilloscope
has four markers for making time and voltage measurement. These
measurements may be made automatically or manually. Additional
features include the centering of trigger or markers in the display area
(CENTer) and the run until time (RUNTil) mode. The RUNTil mode
allows you to set a stop condition based on the time interval between
the X marker and the O marker. When this condition is met, the
oscilloscope will stop acquiring data. Refer to Figure 6-1 for the
Marker Subsystem Syntax Diagram. The MARKer Subsystem
commands are:

AVOLt TMAXimum
ABVolt TMINimum
BVOLt TMODe
CENTer VMODe
MSTats VOTime
OAUTo VXTime
OTIMe VRUNs
RUNTil XAUTo
SHOW XTIMe
TAVerage XOTime

6–2

Figure 6-1

MARKer Subsystem

MARKer Subsy stem Syntax Diagram

6–3

Figure 6-1

MARKer Subsystem

MARKer Subsystem Syntax Diagram (Cont’d)

6–4

Figure 6-1

MARKer Subsystem Syntax Diagram (Cont’d)

Table 6-1 MARKer Parameter Values

Parameter Value

channel_# An integer from 1 through 8, depending on how many oscilloscope

cards are installed as a single unit (chained together).
marker_time time in seconds from trigger marker to X or O marker
lt_arg time in seconds that specifies the less than (lt) RUNTil time
gt_arg time in seconds that specifies the greater than (gt) RUNTil time
inrange_gt time in seconds specifying the lower limit of the INRange runtime
inrange_lt time in seconds specifying the upper limit of the INRange runtime
level level in volts that specifies marker position
outrange_gt time in se conds specifying the lower limit o f the OUTRange runtime
outrange_lt time in seconds specifying the upper limit of the OUTRange runtime
V level percentage of waveform voltage level, ranging from 10 to 90 of the

Vtop to Vbase voltage, or a sp ecific voltage level
type ABSolute or PERCent
slope positive or negative slope
occurrence integer from 1 to 100

MARKer Subsystem

6–5

MARKer Subsystem

AVOLt

AVOLt

Command :MAR Ker: AVOL t CH ANne l<N> ,<level>

The AVOLt command moves the A marker to the specified voltage on the
indicated channel.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<level>

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:AVOLT CHANNEL1,2.75"

Query :MARKer:AVOLt?

Returned Format [:MARKer:AVOLt]CHANnel<N>,<level><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:AVO LT?"

the desired marker voltage level, ranging from ±(2 x maximum offset)

The AVOLt query returns the current voltage and channel selection for the A
marker.

6–6

ABVolt?

Query :MARKer:ABVolt?

The ABVolt query returns the difference between the A marker voltage and
the B marker voltage (Vb - Va).

Returned Format [:MARKer:ABVolt]<level><NL>

<level> level in volts of the B marker minus the A marker

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:ABV OLT?"

BVOLt

Command :MAR Ker: BVOL t CH ANne l<N> ,<level>

MARKer Subsystem

ABVolt?

The BVOLt command moves the B marker to the specified voltage on the
indicated channel.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<level>

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:BVOLT CHANNEL1,2.75"

the desired marker voltage level, ranging from ±(2 x maximum offset)

6–7

MARKer Subsystem

CENTer

Query :MARKer:BVOLt?

The BVOLt query returns the current voltage and channel selection for the B
marker.

Returned Format [:MARKer:BVOLt]CHANnel<N>,<level><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:BVO LT?"

CENTer

Command :MARKer:CENTer {TRIGger|X|O}

The CENTer command allows you to position the indicated marker
(TRIGger, X, or O) at the center of the waveform area on the scope display.
The CENTer command adjusts the timebase delay to cause the trace to be
centered around the indicated marker (S/DIV remains unchanged).

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:CEN TER X"

MSTats

Command :MARKer :MSTats {{ON|1}|{OFF |0}}

The MSTats command allows you to turn statistics ON or OFF in the auto
marker mode. When statistics is turned on, Min X-O, Max X-O, and Mean
X-O times are displayed on screen. When off, X-O, Trig-X, and Trig-O times
will be displayed on screen.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:MST ATS ON"

Query :MARKer:MSTats?

6–8

MARKer Subsystem

OAUTo

The MSTats query returns the current setting.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:MST ATS?"

[:MARKer:MSTats]{1|0}<NL>

OAUTo

Command :MARKer :OAUTo{ MANual|CHANn el<N>,<type>,<leve l>,

<slope>,<occurrence>}

The OAUTo command specifies the automatic placement specification for
the O marker. The first parameter specifies if automarker placement is to be
in the manual mode or on a specified channel. If a channel is specified, four
other parameters must be included in the command syntax. The four
parameters are: marker type, level, the slope, and the occurrence count.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<type> ABSolute or PERCent

<level> percentage of waveform voltage level, ranging from 10 to 90 of the Vtop to

Vbase voltage or a voltage level

<slope> POSitive or NEGative

<occurrence> integer from 1 to 100

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:OAUTO CHANNEL1,PERCent,50,POSITIVE,5"

6–9

MARKer Subsystem

OTIMe

Query :MARKer:OAUTo?

The OAUTo query returns the current settings.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:OAU TO?"

[:MA RK er :OAUTo] CHAN nel<N>,<ty pe>
<lev el >, <slope>,<o ccurrence> <NL>

If <type> is not specified, t he marker type will default to PERCent.

OTIMe

Command :MARKer:OTIMe <O marker time>

The OTIMe command moves the O marker to the specified time with respect
to the trigger marker.

<O marker

time>

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:OTIME 1E-6"

Query :MARKer:OTIMe?

Returned Format [:MARKer:OTIMe]<O marker time><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:OTI ME?"

time in seconds from trigger marker to O marker

The OTIMe query returns the time in seconds between the O marker and the
trigger marker.

6–10

RUNTil

Command :MARKer:RUNTil

{OFF|LT,<time>|GT,<time>|INRange,<time>,
<tim e>|O UTRa ng e,<t ime> , <time>}

The RUNTil command allows you to set a stop condition based on the time
interval between the X marker and the O marker. In repetitive runs, when
the time specification is met, the oscilloscope stops acquiring data and the
advisory "Stop condition satisfied" will be displayed on screen.

<time> a real number specifying the time in seconds between the X and O markers

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:RUN TIL LT,1 MS"

Query :MARKer:RUNTil?

MARKer Subsystem

RUNTil

The RUNTil query will return the current Run Until Time X - O (RUNTil)
setting.

Returned Format [:M ARKer:RUNTil ] {OFF|L T,<tim e>|GT, <time> |INRange,<ti me>,

<time>|OUTRange,<time>,<time>}<NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:RUN TIL?"

6–11

MARKer Subsystem

SHOW

SHOW

Command :MARKer :SHOW {SAMPle|MARKer }

The SHOW command allows you to select either SAMPle rate or MARKer
data (when markers are enabled) to appear on the oscilloscope menus above
the waveform area.

The SAMPle rate or MARKer data appears on the channel, trigger, display,
and auto-measure menus. Marker data is always present on the marker
menu. While sample rate data is only present on the marker menu when time
markers are turned off.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:SHO W MARKER "

TAVerage?

Query :MARKer:TAVerage?

The TAVerage query returns the average time between the X and O markers.
If there is no valid data, the query returns 9.9E37.

Returned Format [:MARKER:TAVERAGE] <time value><NL>

<time value>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:TAV ERAGE? "

real number

6–12

TMAXimum?

Query :MARKer:TMAXimum?

The TMAXimum query returns the value of the maximum time between the
X and O markers. If there is no valid data, the query returns 9.9E37.

Returned Format [:MARKer:TMAXimum] <time value><NL>

<time value> real number

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:TMA XIMUM? "

TMINimum?

Query :MARKer:TMINimum?

MARKer Subsystem

TMAXimum?

The TMINimum query returns the value of the minimum time between the X
and O markers. If there is no valid data, the query returns 9.9E37.

Returned Format [:MARKer:TMINimum] <time value><NL>

<time value> real number

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:TMI NIMUM? "

6–13

MARKer Subsystem

TMODe

TMODe

Command :MAR Ker: TMOD e {O FF|O N|AU TO}

The TMODe command allows you to select the time marker mode. The
choices are: OFF, ON and AUTO. When OFF, time marker measurements
cannot be made. When the time markers are turned on, the X and O markers
can be moved to make time and voltage measurements. The AUTO mode
allows you to make automatic marker placements by specifying channel,
slope, and occurrence count for each marker. Also the Statistics mode may
be used when AUTO is chosen. Statistics mode allows you to make
minimum, maximum and mean time interval measurements from the X
marker to the O marker.

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:TMODE ON"

Query :MARKer:TMODe?

The TMODe query returns the current marker mode choice.

Returned Format

<state> ON or OFF or AUTO

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:TMO DE?"

[:MA RK er :TMODe] <sta te><NL>

For compatibility with older module s, the MMODe command/query will function
the same as the TMODe command/query.

6–14

VMODe

Command :MARKer:VMODe {{OFF|0} | {ON|1}}

The VMODe command allows you to select the voltage marker mode. The
choices are: OFF or ON. When OFF, voltage marker measurements cannot
be made. When the voltage markers are turned on, the A and B markers can
be moved to make voltage measurements. When used in conjunction with
the time markers (TMODe), both "delta t" and "delta v" measurements are
possible.

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:VMODE OFF"

Query :MARKer:VMODe?

MARKer Subsystem

VMODe

The VMODe query returns the current voltage marker mode choice.

Returned Format

<state>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:VMO DE?"

[:MA RK er :VMODe] <sta te><NL>

1 or 0

6–15

MARKer Subsystem

VOTime?

VOTime?

Query :MAR Ker: VOTi me ? CHAN NEL< N>

The VOTime query returns the current voltage level of the selected source at
the O marker.

Returned Format [:MARKer:VOTime]<level><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<level> level in volts where the O marker crosses the waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:VOTIME? CHANNEL1"

For compatibility with older module s, the OVOLt query will function t he same as
the VOTime query.

VRUNs?

Query :MARKer:VRUNs?

The VRUNs query returns the number of valid runs and the total number of
runs made. Valid runs are those where the edge search for both the X and O
markers was successful, resulting in valid marker time measurement.

Returned Format

<valid runs> positive integer

<total runs> positive integer

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:VRU NS?"

[:MARKer:VRUNs] <valid runs>,<total runs><NL>

6–16

VXTime?

Query :MARKer:XVOLt? CHANnel<N>

The VXTime query returns the current voltage level of the selected channel
at the X marker.

Returned Format [:MARKer:VXTime]<level><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<level> level in volts where the X marker crosses the waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:VXTIME? CHANNEL1"

MARKer Subsystem

VXTime?

For compatibility with older modules, the XVOLt query will function the same as
the VXTime query.

6–17

MARKer Subsystem

XAUTo

XAUTo

Command :MARKer:XAUTo{MANual|CHANnel<N>,

<type>,<level>,<slope>,<occurrence>}

The XAUTo command specifies the automatic placement specification for
the X marker. The first parameter specifies if automarker placement is to be
in the Manual mode or on a specified channel. If a channel is specified, four
other parameters must be included in the command syntax. The four
parameters are: marker type, level, slope and the occurrence count.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<type> ABSolute or PERCent

<level> percentage of waveform voltage level, ranging from 10 to 90 of the Vtop to

Vbase voltage or a voltage level

<slope> POSitive or NEGative

<occurrence> integer from 1 to 100

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:XAUTO CHANNEL1,ABS,4.75,POSITIVE,5"

Query :MARKer:XAUTo?

The XAUTo query returns the current settings.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:XAU TO?"

[:MA RK er :XAUTo] CHAN nel
<N>, <t yp e>,<level> ,<slope>,< occurrence><NL >

If <type> is not specified, t he marker type will default to PERCent.

6–18

XOTime?

Query :MARKer:XOTime?

The XOTime query returns the time in seconds from the X marker to the O
marker. If data is not valid, the query returns 9.9E37.

Returned Format [:MARKer:XOTime]<time><NL>

<time> real number

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:XOT IME?"

XTIMe

Command :MARKer:XTIMe <X marker time>

MARKer Subsystem

XOTime?

The XTIMe command moves the X marker to the specified time with respect
to the trigger marker.

<X marker

time>

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MARKER:XTIME 1E-6"

time in seconds from trigger marker to X marker

6–19

MARKer Subsystem

XTIMe

Query :MARKer:XTIMe?

The XTIMe query returns the time in seconds between the X marker and the
trigger marker.

Returned Format [:MA RK er :XTIMe]<xm arker time>< NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MARK ER:XTI ME?"

6–20

7

MEASure Subsystem

Introduction

The commands/queries in the Measure Subsystem are used to make
automatic parametric measurements on displayed waveforms.
Measurements are made on the displayed waveform(s) specified by
the SOURce command. If the source is not specified, the last
waveform source specified is assumed. Measurements are made in
the following manner:

Frequency

The frequency of the first complete cycle displayed is measured using the
50% level.

Period

The period of the first complete cycle displayed is measured at the 50% level.

Peak-to-Peak

The absolute minimum and the maximum voltages for the selected source are
measured.

Positive Pulse Width

Pulse width is measured at the 50% level of the first displayed positive pulse.

Negative Pulse Width

Pulse width is measured at the 50% level of the first displayed negative pulse.

Risetime

The risetime of the first displayed rising edge is measured. To obtain the
best possible measurement accuracy, select the fastest sweep speed while
keeping the rising edge on the display. The risetime is determined by
measuring time at the 10% and the 90%voltage points of the rising edge.

Falltime

Falltime is measured between the 10% and 90% points of the first displayed
falling edge. To obtain the best possible measurement accuracy, select the
fastest sweep speed possible while keeping the falling edge on the display.

7–2

MEASure Sub sy stem

Preshoot and Overshoot

Preshoot and overshoot measure the perturbation on a waveform above or
below the top and base voltages.

Preshoot

Is a perturbation before a rising or a falling edge and measured as a
percentage of the top-base voltage.

Overshoot

Is a perturbation after a rising or falling edge and is measured as a percentage
of the top-base voltage.

For complete details of the measurement algorithms, refer to the User’s
Reference Manual.

Refer to Figure 7-1 for the MEASure Subsystem Syntax Diagram
Before using any of the Measure Subsystem queries, note that the SOURce

command is part of every query of this subsystem. The SOURce command
specifies the channel that is to be used for making the measurements.

If a parameter cannot be measured, the instrument responds with 9.9E37.

7–3

Figure 7-1

MEASure Sub sy stem

MEASure Subsy stem Syntax Diagram

Table 7-1 MEASure Parameter Values

Parameter Value

channel_# An integer from 1 through 8, depending on how many oscilloscope

cards are installed as a single unit (chained together).

7–4

ALL?

Query :MEASure:[SOURce CHANnel<N>;]ALL?

The ALL query makes a set of measurements on the displayed waveform
using the selected source.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

Returned Format

[:ME AS ur e:ALL PERiod ] <real number >;
[RI Setime] <real nu mber>;
[FA LLtime] <real nu mber>;
[FRE Qu en cy] <real numb er>;
[PW IDth] <real numb er>;
[NW IDth] <real numb er>;
[VPP ] <r ea l number>;
[VA MPlitude] <rea l number >;
[PR EShoot] <real nu mber>;
[OVE Rs ho ot] <real numb er><NL>

MEASure Sub sy stem

ALL?

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MEAS URE:SO URCE CHA NNEL1; ALL?"

7–5

MEASure Sub sy stem

FALLtime?

FALLtime?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]FALLtime?

The FALLtime query makes a fall time measurement on the selected
channel. The measurement is made between the 90% to the 10% voltage
point of the first falling edge displayed on screen.

Returned Format

<value> time in seconds between the 90% and 10% voltage points of the first falling

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOUR CHAN2;FALLTIME?"

[:ME AS ur e:FALLtime ] <value><NL >

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

edge displayed on the screen

FREQuency?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]FREQuency?

The FREQency query makes a frequency measurement on the selected
channel. The measurement is made using the first complete displayed cycle
at the 50% voltage level.

Returned Format

<value> frequency in Hertz

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MEAS URE:SO UR CHAN1 ;FREQ? "

[:MEASure:FREQuency]<value><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–6

NWIDth?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]NWIDth?

The NWIDth query makes a negative width time measurement on the
selected channel. The measurement is made between the 50% points of the
first falling and the next rising edge displayed on screen.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> negative pulse width in seconds

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN2;NWID?"

[:ME AS ur e:NWIDth] <v alue><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

MEASure Sub sy stem

NWIDth?

OVERshoot?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]OVERshoot?

The OVERshoot query makes an overshoot measurement on the selected
channel. The measurement is made by finding a distortion following the first
major transition. The result is the ratio of OVERshoot vs. VAMPlitude.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> ratio of overshoot to Vamplitude

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN1;OVER?"

[:MEASure:OVERshoot]<value><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–7

MEASure Sub sy stem

PERiod?

PERiod?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]PERiod?

The PERiod query makes a period measurement on the selected channel.
The measurement is equivalent to the inverse of the frequency.

Returned Format [:ME AS ur e:PERiod] <v alue><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<value> waveform period in seconds

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHANNEL1;PERIOD?"

PREShoot?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]PREShoot?

The PREShoot query makes the preshoot measurement on the selected
channel. The measurement is made by finding a distortion which precedes
the first major transition on screen. The result is the ratio of PREshoot vs.
VAMPlitude.

Returned Format

<value> ratio of preshoot to Vamplitude

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MEAS URE:SO URCE CHA NNEL2; PRES?"

[:ME AS ur e:PREShoot ] <value><NL >

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–8

PWIDth?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]PWIDth?

The PWIDth query makes a positive pulse width measurement on the
selected channel. The measurement is made by finding the time difference
between the 50% points of the first rising and the next falling edge displayed
on screen.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> positive pulse width in seconds

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHANNEL2;PWIDTH?"

[:ME AS ur e:PWIDth] <v alue><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

MEASure Sub sy stem

PWIDth?

RISetime?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]RISetime?

The RISetime query makes a risetime measurement on the selected channel
by finding the 10% and 90% voltage levels of the first rising edge displayed on
screen.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> risetime in seconds

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOUR CHAN1;RISETIME?"

[:ME AS ur e:RISetime ] <value><NL >

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–9

MEASure Sub sy stem

SOURce

SOURce

Command :MEA Sure :SOU Rc e CHAN nel< N>

The SOURce command specifies the source to be used for subsequent
measurements. If the source is not specified, the last waveform source is
assumed.

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN1"

Query :MEASure:SOURce?

The SOURce query returns the presently specified channel.

Returned Format

[:ME AS ur e:SOURce] CH ANnel<N><N L>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MEAS URE:SO URCE?"

7–10

MEASure Sub sy stem

VAMPlitude?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]VAMPlitude?

The VAMPlitude query makes a voltage measurement on the selected
channel. The measurement is made by finding the relative maximum (VTOP)
and minimum (VBASe) points on screen.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> difference between top and base voltage

Example OUT PUT XXX;":MEAS URE:SO URCE CHA NNEL2; VAMP?"

[:ME AS ur e:VAMPlitu de] <value>< NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

VAMPlitude?

VBASe?

Query :MEASur e:[SOURce CHANnel<N> ;]VBASe?

The VBASe query returns the base voltage (relative minimum) of a displayed
waveform. The measurement is made on the selected source.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> voltage at base (relative minimum) of selected waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN1;VBAS?"

[:MEASure:VBASe] <value><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–11

MEASure Sub sy stem

VMAX?

VMAX?

Query :MEASure:[SOURce CHANnel<N>;]VMAX?

The VMAX query returns the absolute maximum voltage of the selected
source.

Returned Format [:ME AS ur e:VMAX] <val ue><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

<value> maximum voltage of selected waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN2;VMAX?"

VMIN?

Query :MEASure:[SOURce CHANnel<N>;]VMIN?

The VMIN query returns the absolute minimum voltage present on the
selected source.

Returned Format

<value> minimum voltage of selected waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN1;VMIN?"

[:ME AS ur e VMIN] <value ><NL>

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–12

VPP?

Query :MEASure:[SOURce CHANnel<N>;]VPP?

The VPP query makes a peak to peak voltage measurement on the selected
source. The measurement is made by finding the absolute maximum
(VMAX) and minimum (VMIN) points on the displayed waveform.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> peak to peak voltage of selected waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN1;VPP?"

[:MEASure:VPP]<value><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

MEASure Sub sy stem

VPP?

VTOP?

Query :MEASure:[SOURce CHANnel<N>;]VTOP?

The VTOP query returns the voltage at the top (relative maximum) of the
waveform on the selected source.

Returned Format

<N> 1 through the number of channels in the oscilloscope connected as one unit

<value> voltage at the top (relative maximum) of the selected waveform

Example OUTPUT XXX;":MEASURE:SOURCE CHAN2;VTOP?"

[:ME AS ur e:VTOP] <val ue><NL>

(maximum of 8 channels), otherwise the maximum number of channels is 2

7–13

7–14

8

TIMebase Subsystem

Introduction

The commands of the Timebase Subsystem control the Timebase,
Trigger Delay Time, and the Timebase Mode. If TRIGgered mode is to
be used, ensure that the trigger specifications of the Trigger
Subsystem have been set.

Refer to Figure 8-1 for the TIMebase Subsystem Syntax Diagram. The
TIMebase Subsystem commands are:

• DELay

• MODe

• RANGe

8–2

Figure 8-1

TIMebase Subsystem Sy ntax Diagram

Table 8-1 TIMebase Parameter Values

TIMebase Subsystem

Parameter Value

delay_arg delay time in seconds, from -2 500 seconds t hrough +2500 seconds.

The full range is available for panning the waveform when acquisition

is stopped. Refer to the User’s Reference Manual for a list of the

available Delay Pre-trigger and Delay Post-trigger ranges while

running and making acquisitions.
range_arg a real number from 500 ps through 5 s (16534).

a real number from 1.0 ns through 5 s .(16533)

8–3

TIMebase Subsystem

DELay

DELay

Command :TIMebase:DELay <delay time>

The DELay command sets the time between the trigger and the center of the
screen.

<delay time> delay time in seconds, from -2500 seconds through +2500 seconds. The full

range is available for panning the waveform when acquisition is stopped.
Refer to the oscilloscope’s User’s Reference manual for a list of the available
Delay Pre-trigger and Delay Post-trigger ranges while running and making
acquisitions.

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TIM: DEL 2US"

Query :TIMebase:DELay?

The DELay query returns the current delay setting.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TIM: DEL?"

[:TIMebase DELay] <delay_time><NL>

8–4

MODE

Command :TIMeba se:MODE {TRIGgered|A UTO}

The MODE command sets the oscilloscope timebase to either Auto or
Triggered mode. When the AUTO mode is chosen, the oscilloscope waits
approximately 50 ms for a trigger to occur. If a trigger is not generated
within that time, then auto trigger is executed. If a signal is not applied to
the input, a baseline is displayed. If there is a signal at the input and the
specified trigger conditions have not been met within 50 ms, the waveform
display will not be synchronized to a trigger.

When the TRIGgered mode is chosen, the oscilloscope waits until a trigger is
received before data is acquired. The TRIGgered mode should be used when
the trigger source signal has less than a 20 Hz repetition rate, or when the
trigger events counter is set so that the number of trigger events would not
occur before 50 ms.

The Auto-Trig On field in the trigger menu is the same as the AUTO mode
over HP-IB or RS-232-C. The TRIGgered command is the same as the
Auto-Trig Off on the front panel.

TIMebase Subsystem

MODE

Example OUTPUT XXX;":TIM:MODE AUTO"

Query :TIMebase:MODE?

The MODE query returns the current Timebase mode.

Returned Format

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TIMe base:M ODE?"

[:T IMebase:MODE ] {AUTO| TRIGge red}<N L>

8–5

TIMebase Subsystem

RANGe

RANGe

Command :TIM ebas e:RA NG e <ran ge>

The RANGe command sets the full-scale horizontal time in seconds. The
RANGE value is ten times the value in the s/Div field.

<range> time in seconds

Example OUTPUT XXX;":TIMEBASE:RANGE 2US"

Query :TIMebase:RANGe?

The RANGe query returns the current setting.

Returned Format

[:TI Me ba se:RANGe] <r ange><NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TIME BASE:R ANGE?"

8–6

9

TRIGger Subsystem

Introduction

The commands of the Trigger Subsystem allow you to set all the
trigger conditions necessary for generating a trigger. Many of the
commands in the Trigger subsystem may be used in either the EDGE
or the PATTern trigger mode. If a command is a valid command for
the chosen trigger mode, then that setting will be accepted by the
oscilloscope. However, if the command is not valid for the trigger
mode, an error will be generated. None of the commands of this
subsystem (except Mode) are used in conjunction with Immediate
trigger mode.

See Figure 9-1 for the TRIGger Subsystem Syntax Diagram.

The EDGE Trigger Mode

In the EDGE trigger mode, the oscilloscope triggers on an edge of a
waveform, specified by the SOURce, DELay, LEVel, and SLOPe commands.
If a source is not specified, then the current source is assumed. If
EXTERNAL source is specified, the input signal is assumed to be ECL. The
DELay value corresponds to the Count field displayed on the TRIGger menu.

The PATTern Trigger Mode

In the pattern trigger mode, the oscilloscope triggers when a pattern is
generated using the CONDition, DELay, LEVel, LOGic and PATH commands.
The CONDition command allows the oscilloscope to trigger when entering
the specified pattern or exiting the pattern. The DELay value corresponds
to the Count field displayed on the TRIGger menu. The LOGic command
defines the pattern. The PATH command is used to change the trigger
pattern and level. The path consists of two channels and the external trigger
input.

9–2

Figure 9-1

TRIGger Subsystem

TRIGger Subsystem Syntax Di agram

9–3

TRIGger Subsystem

Figure 9-1

TRIGger Subsystem Syntax Diagram (Cont’d)

Table 9-1 TRIGger Parameter Values

Parameter Value

channel_# an integer from 1 through 8 depending on how many oscilloscope

cards are installed in t he mainframe
count_# an integer from 1 through 32000
time a real number from 20 ns through 160 ms

9–4

CONDition

Command :TRIGge r:[MODE PATTern;]CON Dition

{ENTer|EXIT|GT,<time>|LT,<time>|RANGe,<time>,<time>
}

The CONDition command specifies if a trigger is to be generated on entry
(ENTer) to a specific logic pattern, when exiting (EXIT) the specified
pattern, or if a specified pattern duration (LT, GT, RANGe) is met. The
specified pattern is defined by using the LOGic command.

When ENTer is chosen, the oscilloscope will trigger on the first transition
that makes the pattern specification true for every input the number of times
specified by the trigger event count (DELay command).

When EXIT is selected, the oscilloscope will trigger on the first transition that
causes the pattern specification to be false after the pattern has been true for
the number of times specified by the trigger event count (DELay command).

When RANge is selected, the oscilloscope will trigger on the first transition
that causes the pattern specification to be false, after the pattern has been
true for the number of times specified by the trigger event count (DELAY
command). The first event in the sequence will occur when the specified
pattern is true for a time greater than that indicated by the first duration
term, and less than that indicated by the second duration term. All other
pattern true occurrences in the event count are independent of the pattern
duration range time.

When GT (greater than) is selected, the oscilloscope will trigger on the first
transition that causes the pattern specification to be false, after the pattern
has been true for the number of times specified by the trigger event count
(DELAY command). The first event in the sequence will occur when the
specified pattern is true for a time greater than that indicated by the trigger
specification. All other pattern true occurrences in the event count are
independent of the pattern duration time.

TRIGger Subsystem

CONDition

9–5

TRIGger Subsystem

CONDition

When LT (less than) is selected, the oscilloscope will trigger on the first
transition that causes the pattern specification to be false, after the pattern
has been true for the number of times specified by the trigger event count
(DELAY command). The first event in the sequence will occur when the
specified pattern is true for a time less than that indicated by the trigger
specification. All other pattern true occurrences in the event count are
independent of the pattern duration time.

<time> real number between 20 ns and 160 ms

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TRIG :COND EN T"

The oscilloscope cannot be programmed for a pattern duration (GT, LT, or
RANge) trigger if it is being ar med by another mod ule via an IMB ( Intermodule
Bus) measur ement.

Query

:TRIGger:CONDition?

The CONDition query returns the present condition.

Returned Format

[:TR IG ge r CONDition]
{ENT er |E XIT|GT,<ti me>|LT,<ti me>|RANGe,<tim e>,<time>}<NL>

Example OUT PUT XXX;":TRIG :COND? "

9–6