AMETEK BPS Series Programming Manual - Manual (Page 14)

AMETEK Programmable Power BPS / MX / RS Series SCPI Programming Manual
14 Manual P/N 7003-961 Rev AA
2. Introduction to SCPI
SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is a programming language for
controlling instrument functions over the IEEE-488. SCPI is layered on top of the hardware-
portion of IEEE 488.1. The same SCPI commands and parameters control the same
functions in different classes of instruments. For example, you would use the same
MEAS:VOLT? command to measure the AC/DC source output voltage or the output voltage
measured using a SCPI-compatible multimeter.
2.1 Conventions Used in This Manual
Angle brackets<> Items within angle brackets are parameter abbreviations. For
example, indicates a specific form of numerical data.
Vertical bar Vertical bars separate alternative parameters. For example, FIX |
STEP indicates that either "FIX" or "STEP" can be used as a
parameter.
Square Brackets [ ] Items within square brackets are optional. The representation
[SOURce:]LIST means that SOURce: may be omitted.
Braces Braces indicate parameters that may be repeated zero or more
times. It is used especially for showing arrays. The notation
<,B> shows that parameter "A" must be entered, while parameter
"B" may be omitted or may be entered one or more times.
Boldface font Boldface font is used to emphasize syntax in command definitions.
TRIGger:SOURCe shows a command definition.
Computer font Computer font is used to show program lines in text.
TRIGger:SOURCe INT
shows a program line.
2.2 The SCPI Commands and Messages
This paragraph explains the syntax difference between SCPI Commands and SCPI
messages.
2.2.1 Types of SCPI Commands
SCPI has two types of commands, common and subsystem.
• Common commands are generally not related to specific operations but to controlling
overall AC source functions such as reset, status and synchronization. All common
commands consist of a three-letter mnemonic preceded by an asterisk:
*RST
*IDN?
*SRE
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• Subsystem commands perform specific AC/DC source functions. They are organized
into an inverted tree structure with the "root" at the top. Some are single commands
while others are grouped within specific subsystems.
Refer to appendix A for the AC source SCPI tree structure.