[Test-Equipment] hpib interface

[gil smith]

Hi folks:

I'd like to automate some tests using hpib gear, and I have a few questions.

- What kind of control system is typically used?  I have seen some old
computers that have hpib cards and basic language programming of sorts, but
what is the more contemporary approach?  I'd rather write the test program
in something like c, java, or perl, or a graphical thingy, but I'm open to
suggestions.

- I'd prefer the hpib interface to be external to the pc.  Is there a
232-serial-port-to-hpib interface available?  Or a schematic on how to
build one?  I don't mind programming a microcontroller to handle the serial
i/o and any conversions needed, but I don't know much about the hpib side
of things (it may require a dedicated chipset).  I've seen isa and pci hpib
cards, but isa is dead and who knows about pci in a few years.  232 will be
around at least until I'm dead, and after that I won't care.  Plus, a 232
interface could allow for a program (eg java) to run on any pc or o/s (win,
linux, mac).  Or, even if it's a win-specific program, at least the machine
can be changed or upgraded without worrying about board drivers and all
that stuff.

any thoughts appreciated,

gil


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