Re: GPIB serial poll of an instrument

[CdeMills]

martine1212 wrote
> Now that octave has an instrument control toolbox...
> I am wondering if there is any way of serial polling an instrument.
> For example I am programming an 8510C VNA, the total test time is unknown
> so the VNA will request service when the test is done and data is ready.
> 
> I read the linux-gpib has the capability, just wondering if there is any
> way of using in octave.
> Or, if you are a developer, perhaps adding the function would be a good
> idea.

Hummmm ... I've developped high performance acquisition solutions over
years. My advice is NOT to try to design some ONE-DO-IT-ALL tool. You are
mixing problems and constraints, bug in one piece of the code turn may
contaminate other part of the design ...

I prefer an clean approach, where the main task is subdivided into subtasks
and programs:
1) acquisition and data storage: the simpler the better. Use low-level
language (C) and buffer everything in a simple format. Store enough
information to be able to reconstruct a complete description of the
measurements.
2) data processing: Octave comes handy, use a pattern like load - analyse -
save
3) data consolidation and plotting: use either Octave in a second step,
either programs more oriented towards statistics, like R.

I don't say it's not worth to try to have a better interface between Octave
and instruments. I just fear that this solution may not scale properly with
very complex design.


Regards





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