Fluke 8808A User Manual - Page 63
Introduction, Local and Remote Operations, Computer Interfaces
View all Fluke 8808A manuals
Add to My Manuals
Save this manual to your list of manuals |
Page 63 highlights
4 Operating the Meter Using the Computer Interface Introduction Introduction This chapter describes how to set up, configure and operate the Meter via the RS-232 computer interface on the Meter's rear panel. The Meter can be operated from a host (a terminal, controller, PC, or computer) by sending commands to the Meter through its computer interface. An annotated sample program illustrating the use of the RS-232 computer interface is provided at the end of this chapter. Refer to Chapter 3 for complete descriptions of all Meter functions and features. This chapter assumes that you are familiar with the basics of data communication and RS-232 interface. Local and Remote Operations When the Meter is operated from a host, it is said to be operated remotely. When the Meter is operated from its front panel, it is said to be operated locally. Most operations that can be performed locally can also be performed remotely using the computer interface. Some operations, like setting communications parameters for the RS232 interface operations, can only be performed from the front panel. Computer Interfaces The Meter comes equipped with an RS-232 (serial) interface. Using the interface turns the Meter into a fully programmable instrument that can be integrated into an automated instrumentation system. Preparing the Meter for Operations via the RS-232 Interface The RS-232 interface allows ASCII asynchronous serial communication between the Meter and a host, serial printer or terminal. Setting Communication Parameters (RS-232) Table 4-1 provides the RS-232 communication parameters factory settings. Setting RS232 communication parameters is only performed through the front panel. In order for the Meter and host to communicate via the RS-232 interface, the communication parameters of the Meter must match those of the host. If the communications parameters of the host and Meter do not match, set the appropriate baud rate and parity parameters as follows: 1. Press P to turn the Meter on. 2. Press Q then K. The baud rate currently selected is shown in the primary display and baud is shown in the secondary display. 3. Press U or V to scroll to the desired baud, and then press R to set the RS-232 baud rate. 4. Press U or V to scroll to the desired data bit (7 or 8) selection, then press R to set parity. Echo appears on the secondary display, and 0n or 0FF appears on the primary display. 5. To select an Echo mode, press U or V to select On or OFF, and then press R to set the selected Echo state. When Echo is on, each command sent to the Meter over the RS-232 interface is echoed to the host's display screen. When Echo is off, commands are not echoed. 4-3