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The 8099 is VXI-11.3 compliant which makes it easily controllable from virtu-
ally any computer with network access. One programming method is to make
program calls to a VISA or SICL library which can communicate with VXI-
11.3 instruments. LabView and VEE are graphical applications that can make
VISA calls. SICL or VISA calls are recommended for Visual Basic, C and other
program languages that can call any library. Another programming technique
is to use the RPC protocol to communicate with the 8099. The RPC protocol
makes it easy to control the 8099 from any LINUX/UNIX like environment.
JAVA programming examples are available on SourceForge.
The module contains a single instrument personality,
inst0
.
inst0
is an IEEE-
488.2 compatible instrument and lets the user access the internal parser and
execute modbus commands to control the slave Modbus devices. The Ethernet
IP settings can be accessed by a web browser or by ICS's VXI-11 Configure
utility program. A 'LAN Reset' button allows the user to return the card to its
default IP settings at any time.
At power turn-on, the module's boot up and internal selftest process typically
takes approximately 4 seconds. At the end of the selftest, the 8099 turns the
RDY LED on if the test was successful. The LAN and ACT LEDs show the
status of the network connection. The TALK, LSTN and SRQ LEDs show
the module's current address status and if it has asserted a Service Request.
The ERR LED is momentarily illuminated when the card senses a soft error
condition or has a problem with a command that it received.
The 8099 conforms to the requirements for a LXI class C instrument per LXI
Standard Rev 1.1 with the exception of no support for auto-IP configuration. The
8064 exceeds the LXI specification for a class C instrument because it is fully
IEEE-488.2 compliant and specifies complete use of the VXI-11 protocol.
The Model 8099 is packaged in a small Minibox™ metal case that is less than
1U in height (1.6 inches) The front panel contains the power switch and LEDs
which indicate the unit's status. The rear panel contains the Ethernet and serial
connectors and a DC power jack. The 8099 accepts a wide range of DC volt-
ages and is shipped with an adapter for the local power lines.
