C-8
Appendix C - COM Option
COM Overview
The COM Option for the 575 includes a GPIB and an Ethernet interface in
addition to the RS232 and USB interfaces included with the standard product.
The command set is the same for the RS-232, USB, GPIB, and Ethernet.
Different interfaces may be used at the same time. Responses will be made to
the most recently used interface.
GPIB Interface
Also known as IEEE-488, a GPIB computer interface is optional on the 575.
Before using this interface, the address must be set using the GPIB address
menu item.
Ethernet Interface
The Ethernet module used is a “Digi Connect ME” module supplied by Digi
Connectware, Inc. There are several ways to successfully communicate with the
pulse generator over Ethernet. The two most popular methods are raw TCP/IP
(such as LabView or programming with VISA libraries) and by mapping a PC
COM port using the Digi Connectware’s “Realport Drivers”.
IP Address and Raw TCP/IP Connection
This document describes one of the most popular methods of setting up Ethernet
communication for the Berkeley Nucleonics pulse generators. The method
discussed is Raw TCP/IP communication.
The Ethernet module used in Berkeley Nucleonics
pulse generators is a “Digi
Connect ME” device manufactured by Digi International, Inc. It supports virtually
all practical Ethernet communication methods. A set of utilities and
documentation by Digi is included on the CD shipped with the pulse generator.
This discussion assumes that the Digi utilities included with your pulse generator
and National Instruments VISA (version 3.3 in this procedure, see National
Instruments’ website) are installed. The procedures discussed have been
prepared using Windows XP service pack 2.
Determining IP Address
The Digi module has been reset to factory defaults before it left the
manufactur-ing facility. In this mode, it is ready to be assigned an IP address by
the local DHCP server. If a crossover cable is being used, the Ethernet device
will as-sume a default IP address.
The Digi utility “Digi Device Discovery” can be used to determine the IP address
that is currently assigned to the Ethernet module. Hit “Start, All Programs, Digi