HP 8593E Noise Figure Measurements

[ChuckW32]

I am trying to take NF & Gain measurements using an HP8593E with 85719A NF Personality. I need to send a command to the instrument, wait a specific amount of time, then query the instrument for the required data. I need to insert a wait function between the 2 VISA Write calls (to allow the instrument time to do a single sweep), which won't pass the refnum and error list to be passed from one to the next call until the allotted time is up.

[Greg Caesar]

Chuck,

A nice way to solve the problem is to make a sub-vi that contains the wait function, as well as inputs and outputs that pass-thru the refnum and error cluster.

A second method would be to place the wait function in a sequence structure, then pass the refnum and error through that sequence structure to the next call.

If you want to get really advanced, the most efficient method of waiting for a GPIB instrument to respond is to use a service request (SRQ). SRQs are rather advanced, and if you decide to go that route, I would definately start by reading the tutorial linked below.

Serial Polling and SRQ Servicing with NI-488.2 Software and LabVIEW - Tutorial


Regards,
Greg Caesar
National Instruments