Tektronix 2714 Operating and maintenance manual

Programmer Manual
2714 & 2715
Spectrum Analyzer
070-8533-05
This document supports Firmware
Version 10.28.98.

Copyright ©Tektronix, Inc. All rights reserved.
Tektronix products are covered by U.S. and foreign patents, issued and pending. Information in this publication supercedes
that in all previously published material. Specifications and price change privileges reserved.
Printed in the U.S.A.
Tektronix, Inc., P.O. Box 1000, Wilsonville, OR 97070–1000
TEKTRONIX and TEK are registered trademarks of Tektronix, Inc.

WARRANTY
Tektronix warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year
from the date of shipment. If any such product proves defective during this warranty period, Tektronix, at its option, either
will repair the defective product without charge for parts and labor, or will provide a replacement in exchange for the
defective product.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Tektronix of the defect before the expiration of the
warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance of service. Customer shall be responsible for
packaging and shipping the defective product to the service center designated by Tektronix, with shipping charges prepaid.
Tektronix shall pay for the return of the product to Customer if the shipment is to a location within the country in which the
Tektronix service center is located. Customer shall be responsible for paying all shipping charges, duties, taxes, and any
other charges for products returned to any other locations.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care. Tektronix shall not be obligated to furnish service under this warranty a) to repair damage resulting
from attempts by personnel other than Tektronix representatives to install, repair or service the product; b) to repair
damage resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible equipment; or c) to service a product that has been
modified or integrated with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the time or
difficulty of servicing the product.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY TEKTRONIX WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
TEKTRONIX’ RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. TEKTRONIX
AND ITS VENDORS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER TEKTRONIX OR THE VENDOR HAS
ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual i
Table of Contents
Introduction
Introduction to Programming 1–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RS-232 Operation (Option 08) 1–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation Over the RS-232 Interface 1–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Up for RS-232 Operation 1–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPIB Operation (Option 03) 1–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation Over the GPIB 1–13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Up for GPIB Operation 1–15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Message Structure
Instrument-Specific Message Structure 2–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What Is A Message? 2–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Message Buffering (RS-232) 2–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Message Buffering (GPIB) 2–7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Message Format 2–8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Functional Groups
Functional Groups 3–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Command/Query List 3–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Command And Query Functional Groups 3–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Command/Query
Command and Query Definitions 4–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typographical Conventions 4–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
List of Commands and Queries 4–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Status Reporting
Status Reporting 5–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RS-232 Error Reporting 5–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Service Request 5–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Status Byte 5–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Event Codes 5–15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Programming
Programming 6–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction to RS-232 Programming 6–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RS-232 Program Examples 6–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Menu Control 6–39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction to GPIB Programming 6–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Beginning Your GPIB Program 6–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Error Trapping 6–46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Table of Contents
ii 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
GPIB System Software 6–48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPIB Sample Subroutines 6–48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample GPIB Controller 6–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendices
Appendix A: RS-232 Concepts A–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction To RS-232 Communications A–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Implementation of the RS-232 Interface A–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related Documentation A–7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix B: GPIB System Concepts B–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mechanical Elements B–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical Elements B–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Functional Elements B–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A Typical GPIB System B–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Talkers, Listeners, and Controllers B–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interface Control Messages B–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Device-Dependent Messages B–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPIB Signal Line Definitions B–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interface Functions and Messages B–14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index

Table of Contents
2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual iii
List of Figures
Figure 1–1: Two RS-232 System Configurations 1–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–2: The RS-232 Port Configuration Menu 1–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–3: Typical Small Instrument System for GPIB 1–14. . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–4: Connecting Multiple Instruments on the GPIB 1–16. . . . . . . .
Figure 1–5: The Spectrum Analyzer’s GPIB Port Configuration
Menu 1–17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 4–1: Format of Curve Data 4–25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 4–2: Spectrum Analyzer Graticule Coordinates 4–26. . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–1: Terminal Display of ID? Query Response 6–3. . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–2: Terminal Display Before CATV XMOD Test Begins 6–26. . . .
Figure 6–3: Terminal Display of CATV XMOD Test Results 6–26. . . . . . .
Figure 6–4:A Remote Menu 6–40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–5: Prompting for a Numeric Entry 6–41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–6: Specifying a Numeric Value 6–42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–7:A Remote Submenu 6–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–8: Possible Data Acquisition Scheme 6–54. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–9: Possible Data Print/Plot Scheme 6–55. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure A–1: RS-232 Representation of a Character A–1. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure A–2: Rear Panel RS-232 Connector A–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure A–3: 9-pin Female to 9-pin Female Null-Modem Cable A–4. . . . .
Figure A–4: 9-pin Female to 25-pin Female Null-Modem Cable A–5. . . .
Figure A–5: 9-pin Female to 25-pin Male Extension Cable A–6. . . . . . . .
Figure B–1: IEEE Std 488.1 (GPIB) Connector B–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–2: Typical GPIB System B–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–3: Example of Data Byte Traffic B–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–4: Handshake Timing Sequence, Idealized B–12. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–1: Two RS-232 System Configurations 1–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–2: The RS-232 Port Configuration Menu 1–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–3: Typical Small Instrument System for GPIB 1–14. . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 1–4: Connecting Multiple Instruments on the GPIB 1–16. . . . . . . .
Figure 1–5: The Spectrum Analyzer’s GPIB Port
Configuration Menu 1–17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Table of Contents
iv 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
Figure 4–1: Format of Curve Data 4–25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 4–2: Spectrum Analyzer Graticule Coordinates 4–26. . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–1: Terminal Display of ID? Query Response 6–3. . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–2: Terminal Display Before CATV XMOD Test Begins 6–26. . . .
Figure 6–3: Terminal Display of CATV XMOD Test Results 6–26. . . . . . .
Figure 6–4:A Remote Menu 6–40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–5: Prompting for a Numeric Entry 6–41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–6: Specifying a Numeric Value 6–42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–7:A Remote Submenu 6–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–8: Possible Data Acquisition Scheme 6–54. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 6–9: Possible Data Print/Plot Scheme 6–55. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure A–1: RS-232 Representation of a Character A–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure A–2: Rear Panel RS-232 Connector A–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–1: IEEE Std 488.1 (GPIB) Connector B–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–2: Typical GPIB System B–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–3: Example of Data Byte Traffic B–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figure B–4: Handshake Timing Sequence, Idealized B–12. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Table of Contents
2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual v
List of Tables
Table 1–1: National Instruments PCII Board Characteristics 1–19. . . . . .
Table 1–2: National Instruments PCIIA Board Characteristics 1–19. . . .
Table 1–3: TEK_SA Device Characteristics 1–20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–1: Commands and Queries 3–2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–2: FREQ/MKRS Front Panel Commands 3–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–3: MKR/FREQ Menu Commands 3–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–4: FREQUENCY, SPAN/DIV and REF LEVEL Front Panel
Commands 3–8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–5: VERT SCALE, PLOT, and READOUT Front Panel
Commands 3–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–6: INPUT Menu Commands 3–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–7: SWP/TRIG Menu Commands 3–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–8: SWEEP and RES BW Front Panel Commands 3–12. . . . . . . .
Table 3–9: DISPLAY STORAGE Front Panel Commands 3–13. . . . . . . .
Table 3–10: DSPL Menu Commands 3–14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–11: CATV/APPL Menu Commands (CATV Mode Active) 3–18.
Table 3–12: CATV/APPL Menu Commands (CATV Mode Inactive) 3–23
Table 3–13: UTIL Menu Commands 3–24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–14: DEMOD Menu Commands 3–26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–15: Curve and Waveform Commands 3–27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–16: System-Related Commands 3–27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 3–17: Miscellaneous Commands 3–28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–1: CATv Command Arguments 4–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–2: CATv? Query Arguments 4–15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–3: File Types 4–35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–4: Valid File Names 4–36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–5: Miscellaneous Files 4–36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–6: Arguments of the KEY Command 4–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–7: Arguments of the WFMpre? Query 4–91. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 4–8: Related Formulas 4–91. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–1: Event Codes 5–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–2: General System Status Bytes 5–12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–3: General Device-Dependent Status Bytes 5–12. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–4: Specific System Status Bytes 5–12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–5: Specific Device-Dependent Status Bytes 5–13. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Table of Contents
vi 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
Table 5–6: Event Priorities 5–13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5–7: Event Code Categories 5–15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 6–1: Variable Names 6–45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 6–2: GPIB System Software Callable Subroutines 6–48. . . . . . . . . .
Table A–1: Back Panel RS-232 Connections A–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table A–2: 9-pin Female to 9-pin Female Null-Modem Cable A–4. . . . .
Table A–3: 9-pin Female to 25-pin Female Null-Modem Cable A–5. . . .
Table A–4: 9-pin Female to 25-pin Male Extension Cable A–6. . . . . . . . .
Table B–1: Major GPIB Interface Functions B–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table B–2: Interface Messages and Functions: Remote Messages Received .
B–7
Table B–3: Interface Messages and Functions: Remote Messages Sent . . . . .
B–8
Table B–4: ASCII and GPIB Code Chart B–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Introduction

2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual 1–1
Introduction to Programming
The Tektronix 2714 or 2715 Spectrum Analyzer allows remote control of its
functions with one of two communication port options. Option 08 provides an
RS-232 data communications interface; Option 03 provides an IEEE Standard
488.1 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) communications interface.
With a desktop computer and an appropriate control program, you can configure
front panel settings (except those intended for local use only, such as INTENSI-
TY) and acquire, transfer, process, and analyze data remotely.
The command set and message structure for the RS-232 and GPIB interfaces are
almost identical. However, a few interface-specific considerations, such as
communications parameters and protocols, are different. The setup for each
interface is described separately in this section.
NOTE. If your instrument is equipped with the RS-232 interface then continue
with the next subsection, RS-232 Operation (Option 08). Otherwise, turn to the
GPIB Operation (Option 03) subsection and follow the instructions there.
RS-232 Operation (Option 08)
NOTE. If your spectrum analyzer is equipped with a GPIB instrument bus, you
can skip this subsection.
The 2714 or 2715 Spectrum Analyzer follows EIA Standard RS-232 when
equipped with the RS-232 interface. This standard establishes electrical levels,
connector configuration, and signal protocols for communication between two
devices called the DCE (data circuit-terminating equipment) and the DTE (data
terminal equipment). The 2714 or 2715 implements the DTE end of the
interface.
Note that the RS-232 interface is NOT a bus. Only one device can be connected
to the instrument’s RS-232 interface. Unlike a GPIB interface, RS-232 does not
support device addresses or serial polling.
For example, if a computer is connected to the spectrum analyzer’s RS-232
interface, a printer or plotter could not be connected to the spectrum analyzer
without first disconnecting the computer. To plot screen data directly from the
spectrum analyzer, you would first have to disconnect the computer and then
connect your printer or plotter.

Introduction to Programming
1–2 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
The 2714 or 2715’s RS-232 interface requires a minimum of three signal lines
for operation:
HTransmit data (TXD)
HReceive data (RXD)
HGround (GND)
If hardware handshake is required, additional lines must be supplied in the cable.
Refer to Appendix A: RS–232 Concepts for cabling diagrams.
The section titled Selecting a Data Flow Control Method on page 1–7 describes
the use of the additional lines for hardware flow control.
EIA Standard RS-232 defines other lines typically used for modem control and
handshaking. The 2714 or 2715 can operate using the minimum wiring
configuration. If the appropriate handshake lines are provided, a printer or plotter
that expects handshaking over the RS-232 interface may be used.
Data bits are transferred serially, one bit at a time, over the RS-232 interface.
Data consists of instrument commands and queries, control settings, parameter
values, or display information.
If a computer is connected to the spectrum analyzer by the RS-232 interface, the
computer’s serial interface (called a COM port if the controller is an MS-DOS
computer) must be correctly configured beforehand. Programmed commands and
data can then be transmitted over the interface to the instrument.
If a query such as FREQ? is transmitted, the spectrum analyzer formats its
response immediately and sends it back to the computer. The control program
must be ready to receive the incoming data. In the following subsections you
will learn how to set up your 2714 or 2715 for RS-232 operation. Appendix A:
RS-232 Concepts provides additional information concerning RS-232 imple-
mentation for the 2714 or 2715 including wiring for connectors and null-modem
adapters.

Introduction to Programming
2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual 1–3
Operation Over the RS-232 Interface
The following equipment is required to operate the 2714 or 2715 Spectrum
Analyzer over the RS-232 interface:
HSystem controller or terminal
HSoftware device driver
H2714 or 2715 equipped with an RS-232 interface (Option 08)
HInterconnecting cable
HApplication software
HPrinter or plotter (optional)
Figure 1–1 shows two typical RS-232 system configurations. The top illustration
shows a computer (PC) controlling the spectrum analyzer over the RS-232
interface; a plotter is connected to the computer over a Centronics interface. The
lower illustration shows the spectrum analyzer connected directly to a plotter by
the RS-232 interface.
The system controller can be any general purpose computer or terminal equipped
with an RS-232 interface (also called a COM port or serial interface). Specially
built controllers can be used, but are beyond the scope of this manual. The
techniques and programs discussed in this manual are appropriate to the IBM PC
family of computers and their function-alike counterparts that support the
MS-DOS, PC-DOS, or OS/2 environments.
The device driver is a program that handles input and output to the RS-232
interface on your computer. The driver for your system depends on the operating
system and the programming language you are using. For example, if you are
operating a PC, the RS-232 driver configuration may be set with the MS-DOS
MODE command. If your control program is written in the BASIC or QuickBAS-
IC language, optional arguments in the OPEN statement can supply RS-232
configuration settings.
Your 2714 or 2715 Spectrum Analyzer must be equipped with an RS-232 port to
communicate over the RS-232 interface. If your 2714 or 2715 is equipped with
the GPIB interface (Option 03), refer to GPIB Operation later in this section.
Press the key sequence [UTIL] [4] [9] to see a list of the installed options and
capabilities.
System Controller
Software Device Driver
2714 or 2715 Equipped
with RS-232 Interface
(Option 08)

Introduction to Programming
1–4 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
HPGL-Compatible Plotter
or
Epson-Compatible Printer
Spectrum Analyzer
Controller
RS-232Centronics
Hardcopy Device
Spectrum Analyzer
RS-232
Figure 1–1: Two RS-232 System Configurations
An appropriate cable is required to connect between the controller and the
spectrum analyzer. The pinout and connector type on the 2714 or 2715 are
identical to the 9-pin connector used for PC/AT type RS-232 interfaces. Such
cables are available in most computer stores. For some RS-232 devices,
null-modem adapters will be needed. Refer to Appendix A for further informa-
tion on connectors and adapters.
Application software is the program or programs that control and acquire data
from the spectrum analyzer. You can write your own programs using the
information in this manual. Off-the-shelf software is also available.
A printer or plotter (not both simultaneously) can be connected to the RS-232
interface to provide hard-copy output. A printer is the preferred instrument for
character-based data such as parameter values or instrument settings. Plotters
provide superior results when displaying graphical data.
A printer or plotter cannot be connected to the spectrum analyzer’s interface
when a computer is connected. For this reason you must choose between
computer control or hard-copy output when working directly from the 2714 or
2715’s RS-232 interface. An alternate approach connects the computer to the
Interconnecting Cable
Application Software
Printer or Plotter
(Optional)

Introduction to Programming
2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual 1–5
spectrum analyzer interface while using a control program to acquire data from
the spectrum analyzer. A second RS-232 port, a GPIB port, or a Centronics port
on the computer is then used to produce output on a printer or plotter.
Setting Up for RS-232 Operation
Your equipment must be correctly configured before performing RS-232
operations. The following tasks must be completed:
HInstallation of cables between the system components
HConfiguration of the spectrum analyzer and device driver
HInstallation of the device driver into controller memory
HConfiguration of the (optional) printer or plotter
This section describes each task in detail.
Only one device (computer, plotter, or printer) can be attached to the spectrum
analyzer’s RS-232 interface. For systems consisting of a controller and the
spectrum analyzer, simply connect one end of the interconnecting cable to each
device. Figure 1–1 shows two possible configurations. See Appendix A: RS-232
Concepts for the cable configuration appropriate for your system.
Both devices (the computer and spectrum analyzer) in an RS-232 system must be
configured the same way. Before setting up the spectrum analyzer, be sure to
check the configuration settings for the device with which you expect to
communicate.
To set the spectrum analyzer configuration settings, turn on the power to the
2714 or 2715 and press the key sequence
[UTIL] [4] [0] [2]
on the spectrum analyzer KEYPAD. An RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu appears that is similar to the one shown in Figure 1–2. This menu allows
for configuration of the spectrum analyzer’s RS-232 parameters. Following are
detailed descriptions of each parameter in the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu.
Connecting the
Equipment
Configuring the
Spectrum Analyzer

Introduction to Programming
1–6 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
RSĆ232 PORT CONFIGURATION
0 STATUS ONLINE/OFFLINE
1 BAUD RATE 110 Ć 9600
2 DATA BITS 7/8
3 PARIT NONE/ODD/EVEN
4 EOL CR/LF/CR LF
5 FLOW CONTROL HARD/SOFT/NONE
6 ECHO ON/OFF
7 VERBOSE ON/OFF
Figure 1–2: The RS-232 Port Configuration Menu
Placing the 2714 or 2715 Online. Item 0 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu, STATUS, controls the RS-232 online/offline status. When the status is set
to OFFLINE, the RS-232 interface is ignored; data is neither received nor
transmitted. After all preparations have been completed and RS-232 operations
are ready to begin, press [0] on the KEYPAD to toggle item 0 until the STATUS
indicates ONLINE. The spectrum analyzer is then ready to exchange information
over the RS-232 interface.
Setting the Baud Rate. Item 1 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION Menu,
BAUD RATE, sets the baud rate of the spectrum analyzer. Baud rate represents
how fast data is transmitted across the interface. To select a baud rate, repeatedly
press [1] on the KEYPAD until the baud rate you desire is displayed. Baud rates
ranging between 110 and 9600 are available.
The number of stop bits used is automatically selected by the spectrum analyzer
when you change baud rates. If the baud rate is 110, two stop bits are selected.
One stop bit is selected for all other baud rates.
NOTE. The spectrum analyzer baud rate must equal the baud rate of the other
device connected to the RS-232 interface.

Introduction to Programming
2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual 1–7
Setting the Number of Data Bits. Item 2 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu, DATA BITS, selects the number of data bits sent per character. This is
either seven or eight. Eight bits must be selected for binary transfers. Press [2] on
the KEYPAD to choose between seven or eight data bits.
Setting Parity. Item 3 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION Menu, PARITY,
determines whether odd or even parity is used for data checking, or it selects no
parity checking. The default setting is NONE. To change the PARITY selection,
repeatedly press [3] on the KEYPAD until ODD, EVEN, or NONE is displayed.
Setting the Message Terminator. Item 4 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu, EOL, selects the EOL (end-of-line) indicator used to terminate messages
sent over the spectrum analyzer’s RS-232 interface. The terminator can be CR
(carriage return, ASCII 13), LF (line feed, ASCII 10), or CR LF (carriage return
followed by line feed). To change the EOL status selection, repeatedly press [4]
on the KEYPAD until CR, LF, or CRLF is displayed.
When a controller sends data, the spectrum analyzer interprets either CR or LF as
a terminator, independent of the setting.
Selecting a Data Flow Control Method. Item 5 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGU-
RATION Menu, FLOW CONTROL, selects between three flow control
methods: SOFT, HARD, or NONE. An explanation of each selection follows.
SOFT: When the spectrum analyzer sends data through the interface and SOFT
flow control is enabled, CTRL-S (ASCII 19, same as pressing [CTRL] and [S]
simultaneously) halts the data stream until CTRL-Q (ASCII 17) is received. Any
other character received in the interim is ignored. This type of flow control can
be used with a 3-wire setup because additional handshake lines are not needed.
When SOFT control is selected, the spectrum analyzer sends CTRL-S when its
input data buffer is within 200 characters of being full. It sends CTRL-Q when
the buffer empties to the point at which additional characters can be safely
accepted (less than 200 characters remain in the buffer). If the input buffer is
allowed to overflow, the spectrum analyzer discards the incoming data and
signals an error (Event 372).
HARD: When HARD flow control is selected, the instrument sends data as long
as the CTS (Clear-To-Send) line is TRUE and stops sending data if CTS goes
FALSE. Additional handshake lines (more than a 3-wire RS-232 implementa-
tion) are required to support HARD flow control.
When receiving data and HARD flow control is selected, the spectrum analyzer
asserts RTS (Request-To-Send) TRUE until the input buffer is within 200
characters of being full. It then sets RTS FALSE. Data is received while RTS is
FALSE until the buffer overflows. If the buffer is allowed to overflow, the
spectrum analyzer signals an error (Event 372), and incoming data is discarded.

Introduction to Programming
1–8 2714 & 2715 Programmer Manual
NONE: No flow control is used.
Follow these general rules when selecting a flow control method:
HDo not use SOFT flow control when transmitting file or waveform data
(binary transfers) because there is no guarantee that the ASCII-decimal
values corresponding to CTRL-S and CTRL-Q do not appear in the input
stream. Instead, specify HARD flow control or NONE for files and
waveform data.
HIf NONE is specified, you must ensure that buffers do not overflow. This can
be done by allocating enough buffer space to handle most contingencies. A
buffer size of 1200 is sufficient for most purposes. The 2714 or 2715 uses a
1200-byte, internal input buffer.
Selecting the Echo Feature. Item 6 of the RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION
Menu, ECHO, chooses ECHO modes of ON or OFF. ECHO mode is intended
primarily as a means of interacting with the 2714 or 2715 from a “dumb”
terminal, or for testing purposes. Press [6] on the KEYPAD to choose between
ON or OFF.
When ECHO is OFF, the spectrum analyzer does not return the characters it
receives to the controller. For most cases, ECHO should be OFF. However, set
ECHO to ON when using a “dumb” terminal to control the spectrum analyzer.
When ECHO is ON, the spectrum analyzer echoes each character it receives back
to the controller. This can cause problems for the control program if it is not
expecting the characters. Additional time is required to process each returned
character, so it is possible to experience buffer overrun at 9600 baud if the
character rate is too high. After each command or query is completed, the
spectrum analyzer prompts for further input by returning the string “>” to the
controller.
For example, if ECHO mode is ON, “>” appears on the terminal or computer
display screen. If the query “VPO?” is entered, the spectrum analyzer returns
“VPO?” followed by a normal response to the query, such as “VPOLARITY
POSITIVE”. It then appends the “>” to indicate that it is ready to receive
additional commands.
ECHO mode is sometimes useful for interactive testing because it lets you see
each character received by the spectrum analyzer. Following are some important
ECHO mode characteristics:
HIf SOFT flow control is enabled, CTRL-S and CTRL-Q are not echoed, but
they perform their normal functions.
HIf either CR or LF is received by the spectrum analyzer, it is echoed as the
currently selected output terminator.