Standard Commands For Programmable Instruments

What does Standard Commands For Programmable Instruments mean?

Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) is a command language used to control programmable instruments from various manufacturers. It provides a standardized set of commands that allow users to interact with instruments from different vendors in a consistent manner, simplifying programming and Remote control.

SCPI commands are typically sent to instruments over a Serial Interface, such as RS-232 or GPIB, and are used to configure instrument settings, initiate measurements, and retrieve data. They cover a wide range of functions, including instrument identification, parameter setting, measurement control, and data acquisition.

The SCPI Syntax consists of a hierarchical structure of commands, where each command is composed of a Root command followed by optional modifiers and parameters. The root command specifies the primary action to be performed, while the modifiers and parameters provide additional details or constraints.

By adhering to the SCPI standard, instrument manufacturers ensure that their products can be controlled using a common set of commands, eliminating the need for proprietary software or complex programming. This promotes interoperability between instruments from different vendors, enabling users to build automated test systems and measurement setups with ease.

Applications

SCPI is widely used in various industries and applications that require the control and automation of programmable instruments. Some key applications include:

• Electronics testing: SCPI is used in electronic test systems to control instruments Like oscilloscopes, signal generators, and power supplies. It allows engineers to configure test parameters, automate measurements, and retrieve test results.
• Industrial automation: Programmable instruments integrated into industrial automation systems use SCPI for remote control and data acquisition. This enables real-time monitoring and control of processes in manufacturing, power generation, and other industries.
• Laboratory research: Scientists and researchers use SCPI to control instruments in various laboratory settings. It allows them to automate complex experiments, collect data remotely, and analyze the results efficiently.
• Medical instrumentation: Programmable instruments play a vital role in medical devices and imaging systems. SCPI is used to configure and control these instruments, ensuring accurate and reliable measurements.

The standardization provided by SCPI simplifies the development and maintenance of measurement and control systems. It reduces the learning curve for engineers and scientists by providing a familiar command structure, allowing them to quickly integrate instruments from multiple vendors into their projects.

History

The development of SCPI began in the mid-1980s with the IEEE 488.2 standard, which defined a set of standard commands for programmable instruments over the GPIB (General-Purpose Interface Bus). This laid the foundation for a common interface and command language for instrument control.

In 1990, the IEEE 488.2 standard was revised and renamed IEEE 1210-1990 to include additional commands and enhancements. This updated standard provided more comprehensive support for various instrument types and measurement functions.

Subsequently, in the late 1990s, the focus shifted from GPIB to the more modern serial interfaces like RS-232 and USB. The SCPI standard evolved to support these newer interfaces and to incorporate advancements in instrument capabilities.

Today, SCPI is a well-established command language that is widely adopted by instrument manufacturers. It has become the industry standard for controlling programmable instruments across a range of applications, enabling seamless interoperability and simplifying measurement and control tasks.