Contec GPIB-FL2-USB User manual

Reference Manual
CONTENTS
Micro Converter for USB
High Speed IEEE-488.2 I/F Micro Converter for USB2.0
GPIB-FL2-USB
Introduction.................................................................. 4
Safety Precautions....................................................11
Setup .............................................................................19
Connecting to an External Device......................35
Software .......................................................................38
Functions .....................................................................49
Appendix......................................................................52
Customer Support and Inquiry ...........................57

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Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................... 4
1. Related Manuals......................................................................................................................................................5
2. About the Product..................................................................................................................................................6
3. Features ......................................................................................................................................................................7
4. Product Configuration List..................................................................................................................................8
5. Support Software....................................................................................................................................................9
6. Optional Products ...............................................................................................................................................10
Safety Precautions........................................................... 11
1. Safety Information...............................................................................................................................................12
2. Handling Precautions.........................................................................................................................................13
1. Regarding “CE EMC Directive Class A Notice”...................................................................................15
2. FCC PART15 Subpart B Class A ................................................................................................................16
3. EN55032Class A Notice ..............................................................................................................................16
3. Environment...........................................................................................................................................................17
4. Inspection ...............................................................................................................................................................17
5. Storage.....................................................................................................................................................................17
6. Disposal...................................................................................................................................................................18
Setup ................................................................................. 19
1. What is Setup?......................................................................................................................................................20
1. Driver Software Installation.......................................................................................................................20
2. Driver Software Installation .............................................................................................................................21
1. Starting Up the Install Program...............................................................................................................21
3. Hardware Setting.................................................................................................................................................22
1. Nomenclature of Product Components...............................................................................................22
2. Setting Switches.............................................................................................................................................23
3. LED Indicator...................................................................................................................................................24
4. Interface Connector .....................................................................................................................................24
5. Connecting Screws .......................................................................................................................................25
6. USB Connector...............................................................................................................................................25
4. Hardware Installation .........................................................................................................................................26
1. Connecting the Product .............................................................................................................................26
5. Driver Software Initialization...........................................................................................................................28
1. Setting the device name ............................................................................................................................28
6. Operation Check..................................................................................................................................................30
1. Check Method................................................................................................................................................30
2. Using the Diagnosis Program ..................................................................................................................30
7. Setup Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................................................34
1. Examples and Solution................................................................................................................................34

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Table of Contents
Connecting to an External Device ................................. 35
1. Connecting to an External Device.................................................................................................................36
1. Notes on GPIB cable connection ............................................................................................................36
Software............................................................................ 38
1. Application Development ................................................................................................................................39
2. For using API-GPIB(WDM) for USB...............................................................................................................40
1. Accessing the Help File...............................................................................................................................40
2. Using Sample Programs .............................................................................................................................40
3. Running a Sample Program......................................................................................................................40
4. Uninstalling the Driver Software .............................................................................................................41
3. For using API-GPIB(98/PC)...............................................................................................................................42
1. Accessing the Help File...............................................................................................................................42
2. Using Sample Programs .............................................................................................................................42
3. Running a Sample Program......................................................................................................................42
4. Uninstalling the Driver Software .............................................................................................................43
4. For using API-GPLV(W32) .................................................................................................................................44
1. Accessing the Help File...............................................................................................................................44
2. Using Sample Programs .............................................................................................................................44
3. Running a Sample Program......................................................................................................................44
4. Uninstalling Driver Software.....................................................................................................................45
5. Uninstall of Device Driver.................................................................................................................................46
6. CONTEC Device Utility.......................................................................................................................................47
1. Updating Firmware.......................................................................................................................................47
Functions .......................................................................... 49
1. Basic GPIB Function ............................................................................................................................................50
2. Additional Functions ..........................................................................................................................................51
Appendix .......................................................................... 52
1. Hardware Specification......................................................................................................................................53
2. Physical Dimensions...........................................................................................................................................55
3. Differences between GPIB-FL2-USB and GP-IB(USB)FL........................................................................56
Customer Support and Inquiry...................................... 57
1. Services....................................................................................................................................................................58

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Introduction
This section provides necessary information of the product
such as the outline, bundled items and manuals before
actual use.

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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1.Related Manuals
The manuals related to the product are listed below.
Read them as necessary along with this document.
Must Read the Followings.
Name
Purpose
Contents
How to get
Setup Guide
Must read this after
opening the package.
This lists the product
configuration and describes
the precautions.
Included in the package
(Printed matter)
Reference Manual
Read this when
operating the product.
This describes the hardware
aspects such as functions
and settings.
Download from
the
CONTEC
website (PDF)
Download Manuals
Download the manuals accordingly from the following URL.
Download
https://www.contec.com/download/

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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2.About the Product
This product is a micro converter that converts USB port of a PC to a GPIB communication port
compatible to IEEE-488 standard.
With the USB cable (1.8 m) included in this package, it can be connected to GPIB interface of any
equipment without using GPIB cables. Furthermore, this product is powered by the bus so that simple
and compact GPIB communication system can be established.
According to user’s needs, Windows driver and GPIB communication driver supporting LabVIEW can
be downloaded from CONTEC website.

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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3.Features
Capable to communicate with GPIB communication
which is compatible to IEEE-488.1/488.2 standards at
1.5 M byte/sec maximum
Capable to communicate with any equipment which is compatible to IEEE-488.1/488.2 standards with transfer rate at 1.5 Mbyte/sec
maximum. Capable to set this product to whether a master (controller) or a slave.
Compatible to USB1.1/USB2.0 and bus power-
driven eliminating the need for external power.
Compatible to USB1.1/USB2.0 and capable to achieve high speed transfer at HighSpeed (480 Mbps).
The product is driven by bus power from USB, which eliminates the need for external power. In addition, with the USB cable (1.8 m)
included in this package, it can be connected to any equipment with GPIB interface without any GPIB cables.
Employs a buffer memory, 2 Kbytes for
transmission and 2 Kbytes for reception.
Employs a buffer memory, 2 Kbytes dedicated to transmission and 2 Kbytes dedicated to reception, in order to reduce the load to the
CPU when transmitting/receiving data.
Windows/LabVIEW compatible support software is
offered.
The support software offered on the CONTEC website makes it possible to create applications of Windows/LabVIEW. In addition,
supplies a diagnostic program to confirm hardware operation and to perform a basic communication test with connected equipment.
Employs a high speed GPIB controller developed
by CONTEC and provides steady-supply
This product employs CONTEC's self-developed high speed GPIB controller (μPD7210 register-compatible), which provides users
steady-supply with peace of mind.
Built-in SPAS event function (when slaving)
In addition to the functions of the earlier GPIB controller (μPD7210), the product also supports the SPAS event generated when a serial
poll occurs. This gives users a high level of flexibility in constructing the system.

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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4.Product Configuration List
The product consists of the items listed below.
Check, with the following list, that your package is complete.
If you discover damaged or missing items, contact your retailer.
Product…1 USB Cable (1.8m)…1 USB Cable Attachment on
the main unit’s side…1
Serial Number Label…1
Setup Guide…1
Warranty Certificate…1

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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5.Support Software
You can use CONTEC support software according to your purpose and development environment.
For more details on the supported OS, applicable languages, or to download the latest version of
software, visit the CONTEC’s Web site.
Name
Contents
How to get
Driver software
API-GPIB(WDM) for USB
It is the driver software for Windows with new function
specification and supplies command in the form of
standard Win32 API function (DLL).
Ideal for a user who intend to construct a new system
since setting up multiple GPIB communication
converters is easy, for example.
In addition, sample programs such as Visual Basic and
Visual C++ are included, and you can verify the
operation of hardware by using Diagnostic programs.
Download from the
CONTEC website
Driver software
API-GPIB(98/PC)
It is the driver software, and which supplies command
in the form of standard Win32 API function (DLL).
In addition, sample programs such as Visual Basic and
Visual C++ are included, and you can verify the
operation of hardware by using Diagnostic programs.
Download from the
CONTEC website
GPIB communication driver
supporting LabVIEW
API-GPLV(W32)
API-GPLV(W32) is a driver created according to the
National Instruments Corporation’s GPIB function style.
The driver is software to control the CONTEC GPIB
board using a LabVIEW-based GPIB system or existing
application program.
Download from the
CONTEC website
Download the files accordingly from the following URL.
Download
https://www.contec.com/download/

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Introduction
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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6.Optional Products
Optional product items are as follows:
Use these items with the main unit as necessary.
Product Name
Model type
Description
GPIB cable
PCN-T02
GPIB cable (2m)
PCN-T04
GPIB cable (4m)
GPIB connector adapter
CN-GP/C
GPIB connector adapter
Effective if this product interferes with the main unit of the
target device when plugging this product into the device.
Visit the CONTEC website for the latest optional products.
Website
https://www.contec.com/

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Safety Precautions
Understand the following definitions and precautions to
use the product safely.
Never fail to read them before using the product.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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1.Safety Information
This document provides safety information using the following symbols to prevent accidents
resulting in injury or death and the destruction of equipment and resources.
Understand the meanings of these labels to operate the equipment safely.
DANGER
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury or in property
damage.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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2.Handling Precautions
DANGER
Do not use the product in locations exposed to a flammable or corrosive gas. It may cause
explosion, fire, electrical shock, or malfunction.
CAUTION
Do not strike or bend this product.
Otherwise, this product may malfunction, overheat, cause a failure or breakage.
Make sure that your PC can supply ample power to all this product installed.
Insufficiently energized products could malfunction, overheat, or cause a failure.
It may cause a trouble in recognizing and operating the device according to the kind of USB
hub.
As this product contains precision electronic components, do not use or store it in the
environments subject to shock or vibration. Otherwise the product may malfunction,
overheat, cause a failure or breakage.
Do not use or store the product in a hot or cold place where the temperature exceeds the
specified range, or in a place that is subject to severe temperature changes.
Otherwise the product may malfunction, overheat, cause a failure or breakage
Do not use or store the product in a place subject to direct sunlight or near a heating device,
such as a stove. Otherwise the product may malfunction, overheat, cause a failure or
breakage.
Do not use or store the product near equipment generating a strong magnetic field or radio
waves. Otherwise the product may malfunction, overheat, cause a failure or breakage.
Do not touch this product's terminals (USB connector, Interface connector) with your hand.
Otherwise, the product may malfunction, overheat, or cause a failure.
If the terminals are touched by someone's hands, clean the terminals with industrial alcohol.
Do not touch the interface connector when the power is on.
Otherwise the product may malfunction, overheat, cause a failure due to static electricity.
Do not plug or unplug the internet connector when the power is on. This may cause a failure.
Do not operate switches when the power is on. This may cause a failure.
When connecting multiple units, set one unit at a time. Complete the setup before starting to
connect the next unit.
The specifications of this product are subject to change without notice for enhancement and
quality improvement.
Even when using the product continuously, be sure to read the manual and understand the
contents.
Do not modify or disassemble the product. CONTEC will bear no responsibility for any
problems, etc., resulting from modifying or disassembling the product.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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The product must always be accompanied by the Setup Guide when transferred or assigned.
Contact your retailer for product repair or replacement.
When disposing of the product, follow the disposal procedures stipulated under the relevant
laws and municipal ordinances.
Regardless of the foregoing statements, CONTEC is not liable for any damages
whatsoever (Including damages for loss of business profits) arising out of the use or inability
to use this CONTEC product or the information contained herein.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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1. Regarding “CE EMC Directive Class A Notice”
The ferrite core must be installed in the connecting cable so that this product may suit the above-
mentioned standard. (Equivalent product can also be used)
Name
Maker
Turn
Quantity
Installation Site
RFC-13MA
KITAKAWA INDUSTRIES
4
1
on USB cable at product side
RFC-20
KITAKAWA INDUSTRIES
2
1
on GPIB cable at pc side
Image diagram

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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2. FCC PART15 Subpart B Class A
NOTE
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.
FCC WARNING
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
3. EN55032Class A Notice
Warning:
Operation of this equipment in a residential environment could cause radio interference.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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3.Environment
Use this product in the following environment. If used in an unauthorized environment, this product may overheat,
malfunction, or cause a failure.
Operating temperature
0 - 50ºC
Humidity
10 - 90%RH (No condensation)
Corrosive gases
None
Floating dust particles
Not to be excessive
4.Inspection
Inspect the product periodically as follows to use it safely.
5.Storage
When storing this product, keep it in its original packing form.
Put this product in the storage bag.
Wrap it in the packing material, and then put it in the box.
Store the package at room temperature at a place free from direct sunlight, moisture, shock,
vibration, magnetism, and static electricity.
Check that the converter has
no dust or foreign matter adhering.

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Safety Precautions
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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6.Disposal
When disposing of the product, follow the disposal procedures stipulated under the relevant laws
and municipal ordinances.

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Setup
This section explains how to set up this product.

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Setup
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GPIB-FL2-USB Reference Manual
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1.What is Setup?
Setup means a series of steps to take before the product can be used.
Different steps are required for driver software and hardware.
The setup procedure varies with the OS or driver software used.
1. Driver Software Installation
This section describes the procedure to start the application program development using the driver
software API-GPIB (WDM) for USB.
Taking the following steps sets up the driver software and hardware. You can use the diagnosis
program later on to check whether the driver software and hardware function properly.
Step 1 Driver Software Installation (page21)
Step 2 Hardware Setting (page22)
Step 3 Hardware Installation (page26)
Step 4 Driver Software Initialization (page28)
Step 5 Operation Check (page30)
If Setup fails to be performed properly, see the “Setup Troubleshooting (page34)” section at the
end of this chapter.