1. Product Overview

Product Name: cPCI-GPIB
Model: cPCI-GPIB
Series: CompactPCI IEEE-488.2 Interface Series
Article Number: cPCI-GPIB
Manufacturer: ines (Industrial Network Embedded Systems)

The cPCI-GPIB is a high-performance CompactPCI (cPCI) interface card designed to provide full IEEE-488.2 (GPIB) bus functionality for industrial, laboratory, and automated test environments. It serves as a bridge between CompactPCI-based host systems and GPIB instrumentation, enabling seamless communication with a wide range of test and measurement devices. The card is engineered for robust performance, broad operating system compatibility, and integration with leading test automation software platforms.

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2. Key Features

- IEEE-488.2 Compliant Interface: Fully conforms to the IEEE-488.1 and IEEE-488.2 standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of GPIB instruments and controllers.
- CompactPCI Form Factor: Designed for 3U or 6U CompactPCI systems, providing a modular and rugged interface solution for industrial and laboratory environments.
- High Data Throughput: Supports data transfer rates exceeding 1 MByte/s in programmed I/O mode, enabling fast communication with connected instruments.
- Plug & Play Compatibility: Fully compatible with Windows 95/98 Plug & Play architecture, simplifying installation and configuration.
- Comprehensive Driver Support: Includes HP-IB driver (SICL/TULIP) for integration with HP-VEE, HP-Basic, and HP-BenchLink environments.
- Broad Software Compatibility: Works seamlessly with a wide range of development and test environments including HP-VEE, HAT-Basic, TestPoint, DIAdem, Visual Designer, DASYLab, Visual C++, Visual Basic, and Delphi.
- Cross-Platform Device Drivers: Provides IEEE-488.2 device drivers with C-source code for multiple operating systems including Windows NT, Windows CE, Linux, QNX, VxWorks, OS-9, pSOS, and LynxOS.
- Embedded BIOS Support: Features an integrated IEEE-488.2 BIOS for low-level control and system-level integration.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, with stable performance and long-term availability.

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3. Technical Specifications

- Bus Interface: CompactPCI (cPCI) compliant, 32-bit bus interface
- Communication Standard: IEEE-488.1 / IEEE-488.2 (GPIB, HP-IB)
- Data Transfer Rate: >1 MByte/s in programmed I/O mode
- Connector Type: Standard 24-pin IEEE-488 (Amphenol) connector
- Form Factor: 3U CompactPCI card (typical dimensions: 160 mm × 100 mm × 20 mm)
- Weight: Approx. 200–250 g (depending on configuration)
- Power Requirements: +5 VDC supply from CompactPCI backplane (typical consumption <10 W)
- Operating Temperature: 0 °C to +55 °C (industrial operating range)
- Storage Temperature: -20 °C to +70 °C
- Relative Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing
- Material: High-quality FR4 PCB with gold-plated edge connectors and EMI shielding
- Indicators: Status LEDs for bus activity and power
- Compliance: IEEE-488.2, CompactPCI PICMG 2.0, CE, RoHS (depending on production batch)

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4. Functionality

The cPCI-GPIB functions as a GPIB controller or device interface within a CompactPCI system. It enables the host computer to communicate with instruments connected via the IEEE-488 bus, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers. The card translates CompactPCI bus commands into GPIB protocol messages, managing handshaking, addressing, and data transfer according to IEEE-488.2 specifications.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Automated test equipment (ATE) systems
- Laboratory data acquisition and control
- Production line testing and calibration
- Instrumentation networks in research facilities
- Integration with legacy HP-IB instruments
- Embedded control systems requiring deterministic GPIB communication

Compatibility:
- Compatible with major test and measurement software environments (HP-VEE, TestPoint, DIAdem, DASYLab, etc.)
- Supports programming in C/C++, Visual Basic, Delphi, and other high-level languages
- Works with multiple operating systems including Windows (95/98/NT/CE), Linux, QNX, VxWorks, OS-9, pSOS, and LynxOS

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- cPCI-GPIB interface card
- Standard IEEE-488 (GPIB) connector port
- Driver and software package (including HP-IB driver and IEEE-488.2 BIOS)
- Documentation and installation guide
- Example source code and programming references

Optional Accessories:
- GPIB cables (1 m, 2 m, 4 m lengths)
- GPIB bus extenders and repeaters
- CompactPCI chassis mounting hardware
- Software development kits (SDKs) for specific operating systems
- Rack-mount or panel-mount accessories for system integration

Connectors:
- Front-panel IEEE-488 24-pin connector (female)
- CompactPCI backplane connector for power and data interface

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- CompactPCI system with available 3U slot
- Supported operating system (Windows 95/98/NT/CE, Linux, QNX, VxWorks, OS-9, pSOS, LynxOS)
- Administrative privileges for driver installation

Mounting Options:
- Direct insertion into CompactPCI backplane slot
- Secured with front-panel screws for mechanical stability
- Optional rear I/O connection depending on system configuration

Configuration:
- Plug & Play detection under Windows 95/98 simplifies setup
- Manual configuration available for real-time and embedded OS environments
- BIOS-level configuration for low-level system integration
- Software drivers provide API access for application-level control

Setup Steps:
1. Power down the CompactPCI system.
2. Insert the cPCI-GPIB card into an available slot.
3. Secure the card using the front-panel screws.
4. Power on the system; the card will be detected automatically (Windows) or configured manually (RTOS/Linux).
5. Install the appropriate driver package and verify communication with connected GPIB instruments.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Throughput: Exceeds 1 MByte/s in programmed I/O mode, ensuring rapid data exchange with instruments.
- Bus Management: Supports full IEEE-488.2 controller and device functions, including talker, listener, and controller-in-charge roles.
- Addressing: Supports up to 30 devices on a single GPIB bus.
- Timing and Handshaking: Implements full IEEE-488.2 handshaking protocol for reliable data transfer.
- Latency: Optimized for low-latency communication in real-time applications.
- Efficiency: Hardware-assisted data transfer minimizes CPU load.
- Limitations: Data rate may depend on system bus speed, cable length, and number of connected devices.
- Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial environments with minimal maintenance.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- IEEE-488.1 / IEEE-488.2: Full compliance with GPIB communication standards.
- CompactPCI (PICMG 2.0): Meets CompactPCI mechanical and electrical specifications.
- Operating System Support: Certified drivers for Windows 95/98/NT/CE; source-level drivers for Linux, QNX, VxWorks, OS-9, pSOS, and LynxOS.
- Electrical Safety: Designed to meet CE low-voltage and EMC directives.
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS-compliant materials and lead-free soldering (depending on production batch).
- Software Compatibility: Verified operation with HP-VEE, HP-Basic, HP-BenchLink, TestPoint, DIAdem, DASYLab, Visual Designer, Visual C++, Visual Basic, and Delphi.
- Industry Standards: Suitable for integration into ATE systems conforming to IEEE and IEC instrumentation standards.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Typically supplied with a 1-year limited hardware warranty covering manufacturing defects and component failures under normal operating conditions. Extended warranty and service contracts may be available upon request.

Technical Support:
Comprehensive technical support provided by ines, including driver updates, integration assistance, and troubleshooting guidance. Support resources include documentation, FAQs, and example code libraries.

Maintenance:
The cPCI-GPIB requires minimal maintenance. Periodic inspection of connectors and cables is recommended to ensure reliable electrical contact. Firmware and driver updates should be applied as released to maintain compatibility and performance.

Software Updates:
Driver and BIOS updates are periodically released to enhance performance, expand OS compatibility, and address emerging system requirements. Updates are available through the manufacturer’s support portal.

Lifecycle & Availability:
Designed for long-term availability in industrial and embedded markets, ensuring continuity for OEM and system integrator applications. Replacement and upgrade options are supported for legacy systems.

Documentation:
Comprehensive user manuals, programming references, and integration guides are provided. Example code and API documentation facilitate rapid application development.

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### Summary

The ines cPCI-GPIB is a robust, high-speed CompactPCI interface card that delivers full IEEE-488.2 (GPIB) functionality for industrial, laboratory, and embedded test systems. With data transfer rates exceeding 1 MByte/s, broad OS and software compatibility, and support for multiple programming environments, it provides a flexible and reliable solution for connecting CompactPCI-based controllers to GPIB instrumentation networks. Its cross-platform driver support, embedded BIOS, and industrial-grade design make it ideal for automated test equipment, data acquisition, and control applications across a wide range of industries.