1. Product Overview
Product Name: 1m Micro-D IEEE-488 Cable (High Quality)
Model: ACL-IEEE488-MD1
Series: ACL IEEE-488 Micro-D Cable Series
Article Number: ACL-IEEE488-MD1
Manufacturer: ACL (Advanced Connectivity Line)

The ACL-IEEE488-MD1 is a high-quality, precision-engineered cable designed for IEEE-488 (GPIB) communication interfaces. It features a 1-meter length and is equipped with heavy-duty, double-sided metal Micro-D connectors for robust mechanical stability and superior signal integrity. This cable is part of ACL’s professional-grade connectivity solutions, optimized for laboratory instrumentation, automated test equipment (ATE), and industrial control systems requiring reliable IEEE-488 data transfer.

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2. Key Features
- High-Quality IEEE-488 (GPIB) Interface Cable: Designed for use with instruments and controllers that communicate via the IEEE-488 standard.
- Micro-D Connector Design: Compact Micro-D connectors provide a smaller form factor compared to standard IEEE-488 connectors, ideal for space-constrained applications.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Double-sided metal connectors ensure mechanical durability, shielding integrity, and long service life in demanding environments.
- 1-Meter Length: Optimized for short-distance, low-loss connections between instruments and controllers, minimizing signal degradation.
- Enhanced Shielding: Metal connector housings and shielded cable construction reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and maintain signal fidelity.
- High Conductivity Contacts: Precision-machined contacts ensure low contact resistance and consistent electrical performance.
- Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Fully compatible with IEEE-488/GPIB-compliant instruments, controllers, and interface cards.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in laboratory, manufacturing, and test environments.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Metal connectors and high-quality cable jacket materials resist oxidation and wear.
- Secure Connection: Screw-lock or latch mechanisms (depending on connector variant) provide secure mating and prevent accidental disconnection.

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3. Technical Specifications
- Model: ACL-IEEE488-MD1
- Cable Type: IEEE-488 (GPIB) Micro-D Interface Cable
- Length: 1 meter (±2%)
- Connector Type: Micro-D, double-sided, metal shell
- Connector Material: Nickel-plated or anodized aluminum alloy (for shielding and durability)
- Contact Material: Gold-plated copper alloy contacts for optimal conductivity
- Cable Jacket Material: High-flex PVC or polyurethane (PU) outer jacket for abrasion resistance
- Shielding: Multi-layer braided and foil shielding for EMI/RFI protection
- Conductor Type: Stranded copper conductors, twisted pair configuration
- Conductor Gauge: Typically 28 AWG (standard for IEEE-488 cables)
- Impedance: 48–65 Ω nominal (IEEE-488 standard compliant)
- Operating Voltage: Up to 30 V RMS (signal level)
- Current Rating: Up to 1 A per signal line (typical)
- Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to +80°C
- Storage Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
- Bend Radius: Minimum 10× cable diameter
- Weight: Approx. 150–200 g (depending on connector configuration)
- Color: Standard black or dark gray jacket
- Compliance: IEEE-488.1 and IEEE-488.2 standards

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4. Functionality
The ACL-IEEE488-MD1 functions as a high-performance data communication link between IEEE-488 (GPIB) compatible devices. It transmits digital control and data signals between instruments such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, power supplies, and computer-based controllers. The Micro-D connector format provides a compact alternative to traditional IEEE-488 connectors, making it suitable for modern, space-limited instrumentation setups.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Laboratory test benches and measurement systems
- Automated Test Equipment (ATE) setups
- Industrial process control and monitoring systems
- Research and development instrumentation networks
- Calibration and diagnostics equipment interconnections
- Integration with GPIB interface cards and controllers

Compatibility:
- Fully compatible with IEEE-488.1 and IEEE-488.2 compliant devices
- Works with National Instruments™, Keysight™, Tektronix™, Rohde & Schwarz™, and other GPIB-enabled instruments
- Suitable for both legacy and modern Micro-D GPIB interfaces

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5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- 1 × ACL-IEEE488-MD1 cable (1 meter length)
- Pre-installed double-sided Micro-D metal connectors
- Protective connector caps (optional, depending on packaging)

Optional Accessories:
- GPIB-to-USB or GPIB-to-Ethernet adapters for PC connectivity
- Cable management clips or strain relief brackets
- Extended-length versions (2 m, 3 m, 5 m) available in the same series
- Replacement connector screws or locking hardware kits

Connectors:
- Type: Micro-D 24-pin or 25-pin (depending on IEEE-488 variant)
- Gender: Male-to-female or male-to-male configurations available
- Locking Mechanism: Screw-lock or latch retention system
- Shielding: Full 360° metal shell shielding for EMI protection

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6. Installation & Setup
Requirements:
- Compatible IEEE-488 (GPIB) interface ports on both devices
- Adequate clearance for Micro-D connector insertion and locking
- Proper grounding of connected equipment to minimize noise

Mounting Options:
- Direct plug-in connection between instruments
- Can be routed through cable trays or harnesses in rack-mounted systems
- Optional strain relief brackets recommended for high-vibration environments

Configuration:
- Plug the Micro-D connector into the GPIB port of the instrument or controller
- Secure the connector using the provided locking screws or latch mechanism
- Verify continuity and signal integrity if required using a GPIB cable tester
- No software configuration required; the cable functions as a passive interconnect

Installation Notes:
- Avoid excessive bending or twisting of the cable
- Maintain minimum bend radius to preserve shielding integrity
- Ensure connectors are fully seated before powering devices

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7. Performance & Capabilities
Data Transfer Rate:
- Supports IEEE-488 standard data rates up to 1 MB/s (depending on connected devices)

Signal Integrity:
- Low crosstalk and minimal signal attenuation due to high-quality shielding and conductor design
- Consistent impedance ensures reliable communication across the full cable length

Mechanical Durability:
- Rated for over 1000 mating cycles
- Metal connectors resist mechanical stress and connector wear

Electrical Performance:
- Low contact resistance (<10 mΩ typical)
- High insulation resistance (>100 MΩ at 500 VDC)
- Dielectric strength: 1000 V RMS for 1 minute

Environmental Resistance:
- Operating temperature range supports both laboratory and industrial environments
- Resistant to oil, chemicals, and moderate mechanical abrasion

Limitations:
- Maximum recommended cable length per IEEE-488 standard is 20 meters (for multiple devices); this model is optimized for short-distance, high-integrity connections
- Not designed for outdoor or direct exposure to moisture without additional protection

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8. Standards & Compliance
- IEEE-488.1 / IEEE-488.2: Fully compliant with electrical and mechanical interface standards for GPIB communication
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances): Compliant with EU Directive 2011/65/EU and subsequent amendments
- REACH: Conforms to EC Regulation No. 1907/2006 for chemical safety
- CE Marking: Meets applicable European safety and EMC requirements
- ISO 9001 Manufacturing: Produced under certified quality management systems
- UL/CSA Cable Materials: Components meet UL VW-1 flame test and CSA FT1 standards for safety
- EMC Compliance: Shielding design minimizes emissions and susceptibility per EN 61326-1

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9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer’s warranty: 12 months from date of purchase
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions

Support:
- Technical support available via ACL’s customer service portal and authorized distributors
- Documentation includes pinout diagrams, installation guidelines, and compatibility charts

Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection recommended for connector cleanliness and cable integrity
- Clean connectors using lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol if contamination occurs
- Avoid excessive mechanical stress or sharp bends to prolong service life

Updates & Product Variants:
- Available in multiple lengths (0.5 m, 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, 5 m)
- Custom configurations (angled connectors, specific pinouts) available upon request
- Future revisions may include enhanced shielding or improved flexibility materials

Packaging:
- Supplied in anti-static, sealed packaging with labeling including model number, length, and serial/batch code
- Optional bulk packaging for OEM or production environments

Environmental & Safety Considerations:
- Designed for long service life to minimize electronic waste
- Materials selected for recyclability and compliance with environmental directives

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Summary
The ACL-IEEE488-MD1 is a 1-meter, high-quality Micro-D IEEE-488 (GPIB) cable engineered for precision data communication between instruments and controllers. Its heavy-duty double-sided metal connectors ensure robust mechanical performance and superior shielding against EMI. Fully compliant with IEEE-488.1 and IEEE-488.2 standards, it delivers reliable, low-noise signal transmission in laboratory, industrial, and automated test environments. With its compact Micro-D design, durable construction, and broad compatibility, the ACL-IEEE488-MD1 represents a professional-grade interconnect solution for modern instrumentation systems requiring dependable GPIB connectivity.