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NI GPIB-140A

The NI GPIB-140A is a fiber optic extender designed to extend GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) communications over long distances, typically up to 1 km (3,280 feet). It allows for remote control of GPIB-enabled instruments while maintaining the integrity and speed of standard GPIB communications.

Detailed content

Technical Specifications:

  • Distance Range: Extends GPIB communication up to 1 km using fiber optic cables.
  • Data Transfer Speed: Supports standard IEEE 488.1 transfers at up to 1.1 Mb/s, and HS488 transfers at 2.8 Mb/s.
  • Signal Integrity: Uses optical transmission to eliminate electrical noise, ensuring high data integrity in noisy environments.
  • Compatibility: Fully compliant with IEEE 488.1 and IEEE 488.2 standards. Supports both legacy and HS488 devices without requiring software modifications.
  • Power Requirements: Operates using an external power supply with a wide voltage range.

Key Features:

  • Long-Distance Communication: Extends the reach of GPIB systems from the typical 20 meters to 1 km, making it ideal for scenarios where instruments are far from the controller.
  • Fiber Optic Transmission: Ensures secure, noise-immune communication in industrial or high-interference environments, such as manufacturing floors or research facilities.
  • No Software Changes Required: The GPIB-140A operates transparently to software, meaning no modifications to existing control programs are needed when integrating this extender.

Applications:

The GPIB-140A is commonly used in industries and laboratories where instruments are located far from the control system, such as:

  • Industrial Automation: For controlling test equipment spread over large factory floors.
  • Scientific Research: Extending communication between measurement instruments and computers in large research labs.
  • Test and Measurement: Used in environments where electromagnetic interference (EMI) could compromise signal integrity over standard copper cables.

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