National Instruments GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
T
VXI
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
May 2002 Edition
Part Number 370556A-01
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Important Information
Warranty
The GPIB-VXI/C is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of shipment, as evidenced
by receipts or other documentation. National Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace equipment that proves to be defective during the
warranty period. This warranty includes parts and labor.
The media on which you receive National Instruments software are warranted not to fail to execute programming instructions, due to defects
in materials and workmanship, for a period of 90 days from date of shipment, as evidenced by receipts or other documentation. National
Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace software media that do not execute programming instructions if National Instruments receives
notice of such defects during the warranty period. National Instruments does not warrant that the operation of the software shall be
uninterrupted or error free.
A Return Material Authorization (RMA) number must be obtained from the factory and clearly marked on the outside of the package before
any equipment will be accepted for warranty work. National Instruments will pay the shipping costs of returning to the owner parts which are
covered by warranty.
National Instruments believes that the information in this document is accurate. The document has been carefully reviewed for technical
accuracy. In the event that technical or typographical errors exist, National Instruments reserves the right to make changes to subsequent
editions of this document without prior notice to holders of this edition. The reader should consult National Instruments if errors are suspected.
In no event shall National Instruments be liable for any damages arising out of or related to this document or the information contained in it.
XCEPT AS SPECIFIED HEREIN, NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WAR RANTY OF
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WARNING REGARDING USE OF NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS
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HEREAFTER COLLECTIVELY TERMED “SYSTEM FAILURES”). ANY APPLICATION WHERE A SYSTEM FAILURE WOULD
CREATE A RISK OF HARM TO PROPERTY OR PERSONS (INCLUDING THE RISK OF BODILY INJURY AND DEATH) SHOULD
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DAMAGE, INJURY, OR DEATH, THE USER OR APPLICATION DESIGNER MUST TAKE REASONABLY PRUDENT STEPS TO
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INCORPORATED IN A SYSTEM OR APPLICATION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE APPROPRIATE DESIGN,
PROCESS AND SAFETY LEVEL OF SUCH SYSTEM OR APPLICATION.
Compliance
FCC/Canada Radio Frequency Interference Compliance*
Determining FCC Class
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has rules to protect wireless communications from interference. The FCC
places digital electronics into two classes. These classes are known as Class A (for use in industrial-commercial locations only)
or Class B (for use in residential or commercial locations). Depending on where it is operated, this product could be subject to
restrictions in the FCC rules. (In Canada, the Department of Communications (DOC), of Industry Canada, regulates wireless
interference in much the same way.)
Digital electronics emit weak signals during normal operation that can affect radio, television, or other wireless products. By
examining the product you purchased, you can determine the FCC Class and therefore which of the two FCC/DOC Warnings
apply in the following sections. (Some products may not be labeled at all for FCC; if so, the reader should then assume these are
Class A devices.)
FCC Class A products only display a simple warning statement of one paragraph in length regarding interference and undesired
operation. Most of our products are FCC Class A. The FCC rules have restrictions regarding the locations where FCC Class A
products can be operated.
FCC Class B products display either a FCC ID code, starting with the letters EXN,
or the FCC Class B compliance mark that appears as shown here on the right.
Consult the FCC Web site at
FCC/DOC Warnings
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in strict accordance with the instructions
in this manual and the CE Mark Declaration of Conformity**, may cause interference to radio and television reception.
Classification requirements are the same for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Department
of Communications (DOC).
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by National Instruments could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment under the FCC Rules.
http://www.fcc.gov for more information.
Class A
Federal Communications Commission
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated
in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his own expense.
Canadian Department of Communications
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Class B
Federal Communications Commission
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Canadian Department of Communications
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Compliance to EU Directives
Readers in the European Union (EU) must refer to the Manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for information**
pertaining to the CE Mark compliance scheme. The Manufacturer includes a DoC for most every hardware product except for
those bought for OEMs, if also available from an original manufacturer that also markets in the EU, or where compliance is not
required as for electrically benign apparatus or cables.
To obtain the DoC for this product, click Declaration of Conformity at
by product family. Select the appropriate product family, followed by your product, and a link to the DoC appears in Adobe
Acrobat format. Click the Acrobat icon to download or read the DoC.
* Certain exemptions may apply in the USA, see FCC Rules §15.103 Exempted devices, and §15.105(c). Also available in
sections of CFR 47.
** The CE Mark Declaration of Conformity will contain important supplementary information and instructions for the user or
installer.
ni.com/hardref.nsf/. This Web site lists the DoCs
Contents
About This Manual
Conventions ...................................................................................................................xiii
Related Documentation..................................................................................................xiv
Chapter 1
General Description
Overview........................................................................................................................1-1
What Your Kit Should Contain .....................................................................................1-1
Optional Equipment.......................................................................................................1-1
Unpacking......................................................................................................................1-2
VXIbus Characteristics ..................................................................................................1-2
GPIB Characteristics......................................................................................................1-2
Local Command Set Overview......................................................................................1-3
Code Instruments ...........................................................................................................1-4
Front Panel Features ......................................................................................................1-5
Chapter 2
Configuration and Startup Procedures
System Configuration ....................................................................................................2-1
GPIB-VXI/C Configuration...........................................................................................2-2
Setting the Logical Address, GPIB Primary Address,
and Servant Area Size...................................................................................2-4
Verifying the Installed RAM Size...................................................................2-4
Setting the Shared Memory Size .....................................................................2-5
Setting the Reset Operation .............................................................................2-6
Setting the VXIbus Requester Level ...............................................................2-6
Setting the VXI Interrupt Handler Levels .......................................................2-7
External Input Termination .............................................................................2-8
EPROM Configuration....................................................................................2-9
Discrete Fault Indicator Configuration............................................................2-10
Address Modifier Configuration .....................................................................2-11
GPIB-VXI/C Startup Mode Configuration .....................................................2-12
488-VXI Runtime System Operation ............................................................................2-13
System Startup Message Printing....................................................................2-14
Slot 0 Resource Manager Configuration .........................................................2-14
Slot 0 Resource Manager Operation .................................................2-15
Front Panel LED Indications for RM Operation...............................2-15
Self-Test Operation ...........................................................................2-16
© National Instruments Corporation vii GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Contents
Non-Slot 0 Resource Manager Configuration ................................................ 2-20
Non-Slot 0 Message-Based Device Configuration
(Non-Resource Manager)............................................................................. 2-21
Slot 0 Message-Based Device Configuration ................................................. 2-23
Chapter 3
Local Command Set
Command Set Access .................................................................................................... 3-2
Command Syntax .......................................................................................................... 3-2
Command Line Termination ......................................................................................... 3-3
Command and Query Responses................................................................................... 3-3
Command Response Format.......................................................................................... 3-4
Query Response Format ................................................................................................ 3-4
Error Reporting.............................................................................................................. 3-4
The Help Query ............................................................................................................. 3-4
Help? ............................................................................................................... 3-5
General Configuration Commands and Queries............................................................ 3-6
CONF .............................................................................................................. 3-7
ConsoleEna ..................................................................................................... 3-7
ConsMode ....................................................................................................... 3-8
DIAG............................................................................................................... 3-8
DPram?............................................................................................................ 3-9
NVconf? ..........................................................................................................3-10
OBram? ........................................................................................................... 3-11
ProgMode........................................................................................................ 3-12
WordSerEna .................................................................................................... 3-13
RM Information Queries ............................................................................................... 3-14
A24MemMap? ................................................................................................ 3-15
A32MemMap? ................................................................................................ 3-16
Cmdr?.............................................................................................................. 3-17
CmdrTable?..................................................................................................... 3-18
Laddrs?............................................................................................................ 3-19
NumLaddrs?.................................................................................................... 3-19
RM Operation ................................................................................... 2-16
Static Configuration Operation.........................................................2-18
Dynamic Configuration Operation ................................................... 2-18
GPIB Address Assignment............................................................... 2-19
System Configuration Table............................................................. 2-20
Non-Slot 0 Resource Manager Operation......................................... 2-21
Non-Slot 0 Message-Based Device Operation ................................. 2-22
Front Panel LED Indications for Message-Based
Device Operation ........................................................................... 2-22
Slot 0 Message-Based Device Operation ......................................... 2-24
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual viii ni.com
Contents
RmEntry?.........................................................................................................3-20
Srvnts? .............................................................................................................3-22
StatusState?......................................................................................................3-23
Dynamic Configuration Commands and Queries..........................................................3-24
DCBNOSend ...................................................................................................3-25
DCGrantDev....................................................................................................3-25
DCSystem? ......................................................................................................3-26
Dynamic Reconfiguration Queries ................................................................................3-27
Broadcast? .......................................................................................................3-28
GrantDev?........................................................................................................3-31
RelSrvnt? .........................................................................................................3-32
VXI-Defined Common ASCII System Commands.......................................................3-33
DCON? ............................................................................................................3-34
DINF? ..............................................................................................................3-36
DLAD? ............................................................................................................3-38
DNUM? ...........................................................................................................3-39
DRES? .............................................................................................................3-40
RREG?.............................................................................................................3-41
WREG .............................................................................................................3-42
GPIB Address Configuration Commands and Queries .................................................3-43
LaSaddr............................................................................................................3-44
LaSaddr?..........................................................................................................3-45
Primary? ..........................................................................................................3-46
SaddrLa?..........................................................................................................3-47
Saddrs? ............................................................................................................3-48
SaDisCon.........................................................................................................3-48
VXIbus Interrupt Handler Configuration Commands and Queries ...............................3-49
AllHandlers?....................................................................................................3-50
AssgnHndlr......................................................................................................3-51
HandlerLine? ...................................................................................................3-52
RdHandlers? ....................................................................................................3-53
IEEE-488.2 Common Commands and Queries .............................................................3-54
*CLS................................................................................................................3-55
*ESE ................................................................................................................3-55
*ESE? ..............................................................................................................3-56
*ESR? ..............................................................................................................3-56
*IDN? ..............................................................................................................3-56
*OPC ...............................................................................................................3-57
*OPC?..............................................................................................................3-57
*RST................................................................................................................3-58
*SRE................................................................................................................3-58
*SRE? ..............................................................................................................3-59
*STB? ..............................................................................................................3-59
*TRG ...............................................................................................................3-59
© National Instruments Corporation ix GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Contents
*TST?.............................................................................................................. 3-60
*WAI............................................................................................................... 3-60
VXIbus Access Commands and Queries....................................................................... 3-61
A16.................................................................................................................. 3-62
A16? ................................................................................................................ 3-62
A24.................................................................................................................. 3-63
A24? ................................................................................................................ 3-64
SYSRESET ..................................................................................................... 3-64
TTL/ECL Trigger Access Commands...........................................................................3-65
AckTrig ........................................................................................................... 3-67
DisTrigSense................................................................................................... 3-68
EnaTrigSense .................................................................................................. 3-69
GetTrigHndlr................................................................................................... 3-71
MapTrigTrig.................................................................................................... 3-72
SetTrigHndlr ................................................................................................... 3-74
SrcTrig ............................................................................................................ 3-76
TrigAsstConf................................................................................................... 3-79
TrigCntrConf................................................................................................... 3-81
TrigExtConf .................................................................................................... 3-83
TrigTickConf .................................................................................................. 3-85
TrigToREQT................................................................................................... 3-87
UMapTrigTrig................................................................................................. 3-89
WaitForTrig .................................................................................................... 3-91
Word Serial Communication Commands and Queries ................................................. 3-92
ProtErr? ........................................................................................................... 3-94
RespReg? ........................................................................................................ 3-95
WScmd............................................................................................................ 3-96
WScmd? .......................................................................................................... 3-97
WSresp? .......................................................................................................... 3-98
WSstr............................................................................................................... 3-99
WSstr?............................................................................................................. 3-100
Chapter 4
Nonvolatile Configuration
The GPIB-VXI/C Nonvolatile Configuration Main Menu ........................................... 4-2
Read in Nonvolatile Configuration ................................................................. 4-2
Print Configuration Information ..................................................................... 4-3
Logical Address................................................................................ 4-4
Device Type...................................................................................... 4-4
Manufacturer Id ................................................................................4-4
Model Code, Slot 0/Non-Slot 0 ........................................................ 4-4
Slave Address Space......................................................................... 4-5
Protocol Register .............................................................................. 4-5
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual x ni.com
Contents
RESET Configuration .......................................................................4-5
Serial Number ...................................................................................4-5
pSOS Region 1 Size..........................................................................4-5
Number of pSOS Processes ..............................................................4-6
Number of pSOS Message Exchanges..............................................4-6
Number of pSOS Message Buffers...................................................4-6
Console..............................................................................................4-6
Resource Manager Wait Period ........................................................4-6
VXI Interrupt Level to Handler Logical Address .............................4-6
A24 Assign Base...............................................................................4-7
A32 Assign Base...............................................................................4-7
DC Starting Logical Address ............................................................4-7
BNO ..................................................................................................4-7
For FAILED Device..........................................................................4-8
Servant Area......................................................................................4-8
GPIB Primary....................................................................................4-8
GPIB Address Assignment Method..................................................4-8
GPIB Flags........................................................................................4-8
GPIB Addresses to Avoid .................................................................4-8
Code Instrument Block Base.............................................................4-9
Code Instrument Number of RAM Blocks .......................................4-9
Resident Code Instrument Locations ................................................4-9
Code Instrument Nonvolatile User Configuration Variables............4-9
Change Configuration Information .................................................................4-9
Set Configuration to Factory Settings .............................................................4-10
Write Back (Save) Changes.............................................................................4-10
Quit Configuration...........................................................................................4-10
Chapter 5
Diagnostic Tests
Configuration for Diagnostic Testing ............................................................................5-1
Diagnostic Test Structure...............................................................................................5-1
Diagnostics Mode Selection ..........................................................................................5-2
Diagnostic Test Selection ..............................................................................................5-4
Diagnostic Test Groups .................................................................................................5-5
Group 1–RAM.................................................................................................5-5
Group 2–68070 CPU .......................................................................................5-5
Group 3–MIGA ...............................................................................................5-6
Group 4–GPIB.................................................................................................5-8
Group 5–TIC ...................................................................................................5-11
Group 6–DMA.................................................................................................5-16
© National Instruments Corporation xi GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Contents
Group 7–68881 Coprocessor .......................................................................... 5-16
Group 8–RAM (Exhaustive) ........................................................................... 5-17
Group 9–Interrupts .......................................................................................... 5-17
Group 10–Miscellaneous Tests ....................................................................... 5-17
Appendix A
Using the NI-VISA Code Instrument
Appendix B
Using the DMAmove and CDS-852 Adapter Code Instruments
Appendix C
Specifications
Appendix D
Connectors
Appendix E
Error Codes
Appendix F
GPIB-VXI/C VXI Trigger Support
Appendix G
Technical Support and Professional Services
Glossary
Index
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual xii ni.com
About This Manual
This manual contains information you need to use the GPIB-VXI/C in your
VXIbus system. It describes the function and behavior of GPIB-VXI/C
units configured with the standard user firmware option.
Conventions
The following conventions appear in this manual:
This icon denotes a note, which alerts you to important information.
This icon denotes a caution, which advises you of precautions to take to
avoid injury, data loss, or a system crash.
italic Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, a cross reference, an introduction to
a key concept, or Word Serial commands and queries. This font also
denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or value that you must supply.
monospace Text in this font denotes text or characters that you should enter from the
keyboard, sections of code, programming examples, and syntax examples.
This font is also used for the proper names of disk drives, paths, directories,
programs, subprograms, subroutines, device names, functions, operations,
variables, filenames and extensions, and code excerpts.
monospace italic
monospace bold Bold text in this font denotes the messages and responses that the computer
<
hex value> Angle brackets enclosing a term in monospace denote a parameter.
© National Instruments Corporation xiii GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Italic text in this font denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or value
that you must supply.
automatically prints to the screen. This font also emphasizes lines of code
that are different from the other examples.
Numbers in this manual are base 10 unless noted as follows:
• Binary numbers are indicated by a -b suffix (for example, 11010101b).
• Octal numbers are indicated by an -o suffix (for example, 325o).
• Hexadecimal numbers are indicated by an -h suffix (for example,
D5h).
• ASCII character and string values are indicated by double quotation
marks (for example, “This is a string”).
About This Manual
In this manual, the symbol <CR> is used to indicate the ASCII carriage
return character. The symbol <LF> is used to indicate the ASCII linefeed
character. The symbol <CRLF> is used to indicate a carriage return
followed by a linefeed.
Terminology specific to a chapter or section is defined at its first
occurrence.
Related Documentation
The following documents contain information that you might find helpful
as you read this manual:
• IEEE Standard Codes, Formats, Protocols, and Common Commands,
ANSI/IEEE Standard 488.2-1987
• IEEE Standard Digital Interface for Programmable Instrumentation,
ANSI/IEEE Standard 488.1-1987
• IEEE Standard for a Versatile Backplane Bus: VMEbus, ANSI/IEEE
Standard 1014-1987
• VXIbus Mainframe Extender Specification, VXI-6, Rev. 1.0, VXIbus
Consortium
• VXIbus System Specification, VXI-1, Rev. 1.3, VXIbus Consortium
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual xiv ni.com
General Description
This chapter contains a brief overview of the GPIB-VXI/C and its VXIbus
and GPIB capabilities. This chapter also contains an overview of the local
command set, an introduction to Code Instruments (CIs), and a description
of the front panel.
Overview
The GPIB-VXI/C is a C-sized VXIbus module that links the
industry-standard IEEE-488 (GPIB) bus and the VXIbus. The
GPIB-VXI/C performs transparent conversion of the GPIB signals and
protocols to VXIbus signals and protocols, so that a GPIB Controller can
control VXIbus instruments in the same way that it controls GPIB
instruments.
The GPIB-VXI/C is factory configured to function as the system Resource
Manager (RM). It performs the VXIbus startup configuration, self-test, and
initialization functions, as well as VXIbus Slot 0-related services. You can
defeat the RM and Slot 0 functions individually so that the GPIB-VXI/C
can coexist with another RM and/or be located in any slot.
1
What Your Kit Should Contain
Your GPIB-VXI/C kit contains a GPIB-VXI/C module and documentation.
The GPIB-VXI/C part number and serial number are printed on the label
affixed to its shield casing.
Optional Equipment
You can contact National Instruments to order any of the following cables:
• Type S5 serial port cable, 25-pin (2 m), part number 181138-02
• Type S6 serial port cable, 9-pin (2 m), part number 181139-02
• Type X2 double-shielded GPIB cables (0.5 m, 1 m, 2 m, 4 m, or 8 m),
part numbers 763061-005, -01, -02, -03, and -04, respectively
© National Instruments Corporation 1-1 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 1 General Description
Unpacking
Caution Your GPIB-VXI/C is shipped in an antistatic plastic bag to prevent electrostatic
damage to components on the module. To avoid such damage while handling the module,
touch the plastic bag to a metal part of your VXIbus mainframe chassis before removing
the module from the bag.
Before removing the module from its plastic bag, verify that the pieces
contained in the package you received match the kit parts list. Contact
National Instruments if there are missing components.
Now remove the module from the bag and inspect the module for loose
components or any other sign of damage. Notify National Instruments if the
module appears damaged in any way. Do not install a damaged module into
your VXIbus mainframe.
VXIbus Characteristics
The GPIB-VXI/C has the following VXIbus capabilities:
• Fully compatible with VXIbus System Specification
• VXIbus Resource Manager (RM) (defeatable)
• VXIbus Slot 0 support (defeatable)
• VXIbus Message-Based Commander and Message-Based Servant
• VXIbus master—A16, A24, D16, D08(EO)
•VXIbus slave—A16, A24, A32, D16, D08(EO)
• Up to 4 MB of dual-ported (shared) memory
• Three programmable VXIbus interrupt handlers
• IEEE 488.1 and IEEE 488.2-compatible multiple primary or multiple
secondary 488-VXIbus translator
GPIB Characteristics
The GPIB-VXI/C has the following GPIB characteristics:
• Communication with VXIbus Message-Based devices
– VXI logical addresses are mapped to GPIB addresses
– Automatically configured at startup
– Programmable
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 1-2 ni.com
Chapter 1 General Description
• Interface
– TNT4882C ASIC coupled with DMA
– Full, transparent support of individual status bytes for each GPIB
address
– Buffered operation decouples GPIB and VXIbus operation
– Controller can address one VXIbus device to talk and one or more
other VXIbus devices to listen
• IEEE 488.1 capabilities
– SH1 (Source Handshake)
– AH1 (Acceptor Handshake)
– T5, TE5 (Talker, Extended Talker): multiple primary or multiple
secondary addressing
– L3, LE3 (Listener, Extended Listener): multiple primary or
multiple secondary addressing
– SR1 (Service Request)
– DC1 (Device Clear)
– DT1 (Device Trigger)
– RL0 (Remote Local)
– PP0 (Parallel Poll)
• IEEE 488.2-compatible 488-VXIbus translation
The IEEE 488.1 capabilities are supported for all VXIbus devices
associated with GPIB addresses. The IEEE 488.2 compatibility applies to
488.2-compatible VXIbus devices associated with GPIB addresses through
the GPIB-VXI/C.
Local Command Set Overview
The GPIB-VXI/C local command set supports the following types of
operations:
• System configuration and control
–Help
– General configuration
– RM information extraction
– VXI-defined common ASCII system commands
– Dynamic system configuration and reconfiguration
© National Instruments Corporation 1-3 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 1 General Description
• Instrument development and test
• CI user and development
You can access the command set from the GPIB port, the serial port, and
through Word Serial Protocol communication. You also can use separate
programmable local command response modes for interactive and control
program operation.
Code Instruments
The GPIB-VXI/C can run software modules called Code Instruments
(CIs) that perform special functions in the VXIbus environment. The CIs
supported by National Instruments provide the following:
• Optimized I/O through NI-VISA (the NI-VISA CI; refer to
• High-speed access to VXI memory and registers (the DMAmove CI;
• Communication with Colorado Data Systems 73A-852 adapter
– GPIB address configuration
– VXIbus interrupt handler configuration
– IEEE 488.2 common commands
– VXIbus access
– Word Serial communication
– CI configuration
Appendix A, Using the NI-VISA Code Instrument, for more
information)
refer to Appendix B, Using the DMAmove and CDS-852 Adapter Code
Instruments, for more information)
modules (the CDS-852 CI; refer to Appendix B, Using the DMAmove
and CDS-852 Adapter Code Instruments, for more information)
National Instruments does not support other CIs from legacy GPIB-VXI/C
applications or development of new custom CIs.
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 1-4 ni.com
Front Panel Features
The GPIB-VXI/C has the following front panel features:
• Five front panel LEDs
– The SYSFAIL LED reflects the status of the backplane SYSFAIL*
signal and indicates that a VXIbus device in the system has failed.
– The FAILED, TEST, and ON LINE LEDs indicate the current
GPIB-VXI/C status.
– The ACCESS LED indicates when the GPIB-VXI/C is accessed
from GPIB or VXIbus or when its MODID is asserted.
• Five front panel connectors
– GPIB interface
–Serial port
– Trigger input
– Trigger output
– External CLK10 I/O
• Configurable reset pushbutton
– Pushbutton resets backplane
– Pushbutton resets GPIB-VXI/C
– Pushbutton resets both backplane and GPIB-VXI/C
Chapter 1 General Description
© National Instruments Corporation 1-5 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Configuration and Startup
Procedures
This chapter contains information about the system configuration,
GPIB-VXI/C configuration, and startup operation.
System Configuration
The typical system includes the following components:
• A VXIbus system mainframe containing the GPIB-VXI/C and
instrument modules
• A host computer with a GPIB interface module and associated driver
software (available for many computers from National Instruments)
connected to the GPIB-VXI/C GPIB port
• A dumb terminal or host running a terminal emulator connected to the
GPIB-VXI/C serial port (optional)
The serial port settings are 9,600 baud, 8-bit data, no parity, and one stop
bit. Refer to Appendix D, Connectors, for descriptions of the RS-232 serial
connector and the GPIB interface connector.
2
Cables for connecting the GPIB-VXI/C serial port to an RS-232 terminal
or COM1 port on an IBM PC-compatible computer are available from
National Instruments. Refer to the Optional Equipment section of
Chapter 1, General Description, for more information.
© National Instruments Corporation 2-1 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
GPIB-VXI/C Configuration
The GPIB-VXI/C factory configuration is shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1. GPIB-VXI/C Factory Configuration
Function Factory Configuration
Startup Mode 488-VXI Runtime System Mode
VXIbus Characteristics
Resource Manager (RM)
Logical Address
Servant Area Size
Shared Memory
Address Modifiers
VXIbus Slot 0 Services
CLK10 Driver
CLK10 Source
SYSCLK Driver
Priority Arbiter
Bus Timeout
Enabled
0
0
0% of Installed Memory
Supervisor A16, Supervisor A24 data
Enabled
Onboard Clock
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled (BTO ≥ 250 µsec)
Bus Requester Level 3
VXI Interrupt Handlers Unassigned
GPIB Addressing Mode Multiple Secondary Addressing
GPIB-VXI/C GPIB Primary Address 1
Serial Port
System Startup Messages
Console Local Command Port
Discrete Fault Indicator (DFI)
Front Panel BNC Termination
External Clock Input
External Trigger Input
You do not have to change the GPIB-VXI/C factory configuration to use it
as a Slot 0 Resource Manager. The following sections describe the factory
configuration settings and present alternate configurations. Figure 2-1
shows the location of the GPIB-VXI/C configurable components and their
physical location relative to some of the major circuit components. The
jumpers and switches are represented in their factory default positions.
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-2 ni.com
Disabled
Enabled
Normally Open
Unterminated
Unterminated
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Note The GPIB-VXI/C is housed in a metal enclosure that has cutouts for access
to all switches and jumpers associated with Slot 0/Non-Slot 0 settings, start-up mode,
and Shared RAM settings. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to open
the enclosure.
W2
W1
1
W2
2
W1
3
4
5
6
S1 S2
7
U31
MIGA
P1
P2
14
15
S9
88070
13
S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24
U54
66881
U46
16
17
S20
S19 S21
8
11
S3
S5
S4
12
ON OFF
TNT
1 VXIbus Requester Level
2MSB
3 Logical Address DIP Switch (set to FFh)
4 LSB5 Shared RAM Switches
5S1, S2
6 S2 (OFF)
9 10
COPYRIGHT 1998
7S1 (OFF)
8 Installed RAM Switches
9S6
10 S711Address Modifiers (ON)
11 S3, S4, S5
12 Detail of Switch Settings
13 Slot 0 Switches
14 S24 (ON)
15 S23 (ON)
16 S22 (ON)
17 Startup Mode Switches (ON)
18 EPROM Expansion Switches
Figure 2-1. GPIB-VXI/C Parts Locator Diagram
S11 (ON)
S14 (ON)
BANK 2BANK 3
S13 (ON)
S10 (ON)
18
© National Instruments Corporation 2-3 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Setting the Logical Address, GPIB Primary Address, and Servant Area Size
You can change the logical address, GPIB primary address, and Servant
area size by running the nonvolatile memory configuration utility as
described in the Change Configuration Information section of Chapter 4,
Nonvolatile Configuration.
You can also change the logical address by setting DIP switch SW1.
By default, all the switches are set to the Up position (0xFF). At this setting,
the GPIB-VXI/C reads the logical address from the onboard EEPROM.
To change the logical address, set the switches to the hex value of the
logical address. Switch position 1 is the MSB; 8 is the LSB. Up is logical
1; down is logical 0.
Verifying the Installed RAM Size
The GPIB-VXI/C contains 4 MB of factory-installed local RAM but is
configured to use the minimum amount of 512 KB. Table 2-2 lists the
RAM configurations and their associated switch settings. You can use this
information to change the board configuration.
Table 2-2. Installed RAM Configuration
Installed Memory Size Switch S6 Setting Switch S7 Setting
512 KB OFF OFF
1 MB OFF ON
2 MB ON OFF
4 MB ON ON
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-4 ni.com
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Table 2-3 shows the relationship between the amount of installed memory,
the local address range occupied by the memory, and the range of VXI A24
addresses accessible by the GPIB-VXI/C as a bus master.
Table 2-3. GPIB-VXI/C CPU Local and A24 Memory Ranges
Installed
Memory Size
Installed Memory
Local Address Range
Start End Start End
Accessible VXI A24
Address Range
512 KB 000000h 07FFFFh 080000h E7FFFFh
1 MB 000000h 0FFFFFh 100000h E7FFFFh
2 MB 000000h 1FFFFFh 200000h E7FFFFh
4 MB 000000h 3FFFFFh 400000h E7FFFFh
Setting the Shared Memory Size
You can set the amount of memory that is shared with the VXIbus by
altering the settings of switches S1 and S2. Table 2-4 gives the S1 and S2
switch settings for sharing various portions of RAM with the VXIbus for
each possible installed memory configuration.
Table 2-4. Shared Memory Switch Settings
Amount of Installed Memory Shared with VXIbus
Configured
Memory Size
512 KB 512 KB 256 KB 128 KB none
S1 ON
S2 ON
S1 OFF
S2 ON
S1 ON
S2 OFF
S1 OF
S2 OFF
1 MB 1 MB 512 KB 256 KB none
2 MB 2 MB 1 KB 512 KB none
4 MB 4 MB 2 MB 1 MB none
Note The RAM shared with the VXIbus will be the upper portion of the installed memory.
The GPIB-VXI/C Offset Register holds the shared memory VXI A24 base
address, as described in the VXIbus specification. The RM automatically
configures the Offset Register at startup.
© National Instruments Corporation 2-5 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Setting the Reset Operation
The GPIB-VXI/C has three configurable reset parameters. They can be
enabled or disabled and are as follows:
• Pushbutton resets backplane (asserts SYSRESET* signal).
• Pushbutton resets GPIB-VXI/C (asserts local reset signal).
• Backplane SYSRESET* signal resets GPIB-VXI/C (SYSRESET*
on backplane asserts local reset).
The reset parameters can be altered by the nonvolatile memory
configuration described in the Change Configuration Information
section of Chapter 4, Nonvolatile Configuration.
Setting the VXIbus Requester Level
You can change the VXIbus requester level of the GPIB-VXI/C by moving
the jumpers on jumper blocks W1 and W2 as shown in Figure 2-2.
The GPIB-VXI/C is configured at the factory to be a Level 3 requester.
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-6 ni.com
W1
W1
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
W2
a. Level 3 Requester
(Factory Configuration)
W2
W1
W1
Figure 2-2. VXIbus Requester Jumper Settings
Setting the VXI Interrupt Handler Levels
As part of the hardware capabilities on the GPIB-VXI/C, there are three
VXI programmable interrupt handlers. They can be assigned dynamically
by the RM or statically according to the contents of the nonvolatile memory
as described in Chapter 4, Nonvolatile Configuration.
b. Level 2 Requester
W2
c. Level 1 Requester
W2
d. Level 0 Requester
© National Instruments Corporation 2-7 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
External Input Termination
Switches S12 and S16 enable a 50-ohm termination to ground for the
external trigger and external clock inputs, respectively. The GPIB-VXI/C
is factory-configured with the termination disabled for both the external
trigger and the external clock inputs. Figure 2-3 shows the settings required
to enable or disable the termination on the external trigger. Figure 2-4
shows the settings required to enable or disable the termination on the
external clock.
S12
a. External Trigger Input Unterminated
(Factory Configuration)
Figure 2-3. External Trigger Input Termination
S16
a. External Clock Input Unterminated
(Factory Configuration)
Figure 2-4. External Clock Input Termination
S12
b. External Trigger Input Terminated
S16
b. External Clock Input Terminated
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-8 ni.com
EPROM Configuration
The amount of read-only memory (ROM) in the GPIB-VXI/C can vary
from 512 KB to 1 MB. The standard configuration consists of 512 KB of
EPROM, which is used for the operating firmware. The GPIB-VXI/C also
includes four sockets for EPROM expansion.
The EPROM expansion sockets accommodate combinations of 2764,
27128, 27256, 27512, and 27010 EPROMs. Table 2-5 lists the possible
EPROM memory configurations. Bank 2 has a base address of E80000h
and Bank 3 starts at EC0000h. The maximum EPROM expansion memory
size is 512 KB.
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Table 2-5. Expansion EPROM Configurations
EPROM
Size
BANK 2
(U47, U55)
BANK 3
(U53, U59)
S11 S14 S10 S13
End
Address
16 KB 2764 None OFF OFF OFF OFF E83FFFh
32 KB 27128 None OFF OFF OFF OFF E87FFFh
64 KB 27256 None OFF ON OFF OFF E8FFFFh
128 KB 27512 None ON ON OFF OFF E9FFFFh
256 KB 27010 None ON ON OFF OFF EBFFFFh
272 KB 27010 2764 ON ON OFF OFF EC3FFFh
288 KB 27010 27128 ON ON OFF OFF EC7FFFh
320 KB 27010 27256 ON ON OFF ON ECFFFFh
384 KB 27010 27512 ON ON ON ON EDFFFFh
512 KB 27010 27010 ON ON ON ON EFFFFFh
When you insert EPROMs into the expansion EPROM slots, orient them
according to the silkscreen printed on the board as shown in Figure 2-1.
The 2764, 27128, 27256 and 27512 EPROMs have fewer pins than the
expansion
sockets. In these cases, align the bottom pins of the EPROM
with the bottom pins of the socket, leaving the top pins open, as illustrated
in Figure 2-5.
Caution Improper EPROM installation can result in damage to the EPROM,
the GPIB-VXI/C, or both.
© National Instruments Corporation 2-9 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
EPROM
Figure 2-5. EPROM Insertion Position
Discrete Fault Indicator Configuration
The GPIB-VXI/C comes with a MATE-compatible Discrete Fault
Indicator (DFI). The GPIB-VXI/C monitors the status of the VXIbus
SYSFAIL* signal and relays the status to pins 1 and 6 of the RS-232 serial
port. Refer to Appendix D, Connectors, for more information.
As shown in Figure 2-6 and Table 2-6, switch S17 determines the
relationship between the SYSFAIL* signal and the serial port pins. If S17
is in the OFF position, the GPIB-VXI/C DFI is set to the normally open
mode. Therefore, if SYSFAIL* is not asserted while the backplane is
powered up, pins 1 and 6 will present an electrical open-circuit. In contrast,
if the backplane is unpowered or SYSFAIL* is asserted, pins 1 and 6 will
present an electrical short-circuit.
2764,
27128,
27256,
or
27512
Expansion
EPROM
Socket
If S17 is in the ON position, the GPIB-VXI/C DFI is set to the normally
closed mode. Therefore, if SYSFAIL* is not asserted while the backplane
is powered-up, pins 1 and 6 will present an electrical short-circuit.
In contrast, if the backplane is unpowered or SYSFAIL* is asserted,
pins 1 and 6 will present an electrical open-circuit.
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-10 ni.com
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
S17
a. DFI in Normally Open Mode
(Factory Configuration)
Figure 2-6. Discrete Fault Indicator Configuration
Switch S17 Power SYSFAIL Pins 1 and 6
OFF
Figure 2-6a
ON
Figure 2-6b
Address Modifier Configuration
By setting onboard switches, you can have the GPIB-VXI/C specify the
state of the VXIbus Address Modifiers during a VXI master access. During
A16 accesses, the lines AM5, AM4, and AM3 are needed high, low, and
high, respectively, and AM1 is needed low. During A24 accesses, the lines
AM5, AM4, and AM3 are all needed high. The GPIB-VXI/C drives the
upper three address modifier lines appropriately for every access. You
should configure the GPIB-VXI/C to drive the lower three address modifier
lines as needed.
S17
b. DFI in Normally Closed Mode
Table 2-6. Discrete Fault Indicator Options
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
ON
ON
N/A
Asserted
Unasserted
N/A
Asserted
Unasserted
Short-Circuit
Short-Circuit
Open-Circuit
Open-Circuit
Open-Circuit
Short-Circuit
© National Instruments Corporation 2-11 GPIB-VXI/C User Manual
Chapter 2 Configuration and Startup Procedures
Switches S3, S4, and S5 control the AM0, AM1, and AM2 signals.
Figure 2-7 shows the valid settings of S3, S4, and S5.
S3
S4
S5
a. Supervisor A16, Supervisor A24 Data
(Factory Default Setting)
S3
S4
S5
c. User A16, User A24 Data d. User A16, User A24 Program
Figure 2-7. Address Modifier Signals Switch Settings
GPIB-VXI/C Startup Mode Configuration
Startup mode switches S19 and S20 control the GPIB-VXI/C operation
mode at system startup. They select one of three modes, as shown in
Figure 2-8. The three possible modes of startup are 488-VXI runtime
system mode, nonvolatile configuration mode, and diagnostics mode.
• 488-VXI runtime system mode is the startup mode for normal operation
in a VXI system. The GPIB-VXI/C is configured at the factory to start
up in this mode. The remainder of this chapter contains a description
of operation in this mode.
•In nonvolatile configuration mode, you can edit the contents of the
nonvolatile configuration parameter memory. Refer to Chapter 4,
Nonvolatile Configuration, for more information on the nonvolatile
configuration mode of the GPIB-VXI/C.
•In diagnostics mode, you
on the GPIB-VXI/C. Refer to Chapter 5, Diagnostic Tests, for a
description of the GPIB-VXI/C self-tests.
S3
S4
S5
b. Supervisor A16,
Supervisor A24 Program
S3
S4
S5
can perform extensive offline diagnostic tests
GPIB-VXI/C User Manual 2-12 ni.com
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