Newbie: 7210 style and 9914A style controller ??

[timmy3704@my-deja.com]

I'm new to GPIB, and am considering implementing Labview or HP VEE.
I'm in the stages of identifying a controller that supports both
packages. I've seen some references to 7210 style and 9914A style
cards. Is there a significant difference, or is this transparent to my
application? Is it dependant on the software application, or the
equipment I am interfacing with?

Also, where's a good place to get GPIB cables? Controller (preferably
PCI)?

Thanks.


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Before you buy.

[Kevin_work]

timmy3704@my-deja.com wrote:

> I'm new to GPIB, and am considering implementing Labview or HP VEE.
> I'm in the stages of identifying a controller that supports both
> packages. I've seen some references to 7210 style and 9914A style
> cards.

Unless you are designing equipment that uses these ICs there is no need
to worry about it.
FYI the 9914A (from TI) is no longer available
The 7210 (from NEC) is only marginally superior.
National Instruments makes replacements that are supersets of these old
ones.
They also make one that is much better than either.

> Is there a significant difference, or is this transparent to my
> application? Is it dependant on the software application, or the
> equipment I am interfacing with?

It makes no difference

>
>
> Also, where's
a good place to get GPIB cables? Controller (preferably
> PCI)?
>

Since I like NI (National Instruments) I sould say you can buy everything
you need from them.
I will say that their cables are a little less rugged than those available
from HP
(Hewlett-Packard or is it Agilent now ??).

Some GPIB caveats:
No more than 15 devices can be connected to the same controller.
At least half of these must be powered up.
Maximum cable length is 15m (you can usually get more at lower speeds).
No more than 2-3 m between each device.

None of these are hard and fast rules but if you follow them there should be
no problems.

Shameless plug GO WITH LABVIEW !!

Kevin Kent