1. Product Overview

Product Name: GP-IB(USB)FL
Model Number: GP-IB(USB)FL
Series: High-Performance F Series (GPIB Communication Series)
Article Number: GP-IB(USB)FL
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Product Type: USB 2.0 GPIB IEEE488 Communication Module
Description: The CONTEC GP-IB(USB)FL is a compact, high-performance USB-to-GPIB (IEEE-488.1/488.2) interface module designed to enable direct GPIB communication through a USB 2.0 or 1.1 port. It provides a convenient, bus-powered solution for connecting and controlling GPIB instruments from modern computers without native GPIB interfaces.

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2. Key Features

- USB 2.0/1.1 Compliant: Fully compliant with USB 2.0 (High-Speed, 480 Mbps) and backward compatible with USB 1.1.
- IEEE-488.1 / IEEE-488.2 Compatibility: Supports standard GPIB communication protocols, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of test and measurement instruments.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Achieves a maximum GPIB transfer rate of 1.5 Mbyte/sec, suitable for demanding data acquisition and control applications.
- Bus-Powered Operation: Draws power directly from the USB bus, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
- Compact and Portable Design: Small form factor (62 × 64 × 24 mm) ideal for laboratory, production, or field use where space is limited.
- LED Indicators: Integrated LED display for real-time monitoring of communication status, including listener mode and SRQ (Service Request) signals.
- Robust Cable Connection: USB cable can be securely attached to the main unit using a cable attachment mechanism to prevent accidental disconnection.
- Cross-Platform Software Support: Includes license-free drivers for Windows and Linux, and a VI library (VI-DAQ) for National Instruments LabVIEW integration.
- Reliable Long-Term Availability: Built around CONTEC’s proprietary high-speed GPIB controller (PD7210-compatible), ensuring stable supply and long-term product support.
- Diagnostic and Monitoring Functions: Supports control line monitoring (IFC, ATN, SRQ, REN, EOI, DAV, NRFD, NDAC) for system diagnostics and communication verification.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Interface Type | USB 2.0 / USB 1.1 (High-Speed 480 Mbps) |
| Communication Standard | IEEE-488.1 / IEEE-488.2 |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Maximum Transfer Speed | 1.5 Mbyte/sec |
| Data Type | 8 parallel data lines, 3 handshake lines |
| Signal Logic | Negative logic: Low ≤ 0.8 V, High ≥ 2.0 V |
| Interrupts | Supported |
| Wiring Distance (per segment) | 4 m (maximum between devices) |
| Total Cable Length | 20 m (maximum total length) |
| Connectable Devices | Up to 15 GPIB devices per controller |
| Power Consumption (Max.) | 5 VDC, 450 mA (bus-powered) |
| Bus / Dimensions | USB 1.1/2.0 / 62(W) × 64(D) × 24(H) mm |
| Weight | Approx. 100 g (typical) |
| Included Cable Length | 1.8 m USB cable |
| Connector Type | 24-pin IEEE-488 standard connector (plug type) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 50°C (typical) |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to 60°C |
| Humidity Range | 10–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Compliance | USB 2.0, IEEE-488.1, IEEE-488.2, Pb-free (lead-free) |
| Mounting | Desktop or portable use |

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4. Functionality

The GP-IB(USB)FL functions as a USB-to-GPIB interface adapter, enabling computers without native GPIB ports to communicate with IEEE-488 instruments such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, and power supplies. It translates USB commands into GPIB protocol signals, allowing the host computer to act as a GPIB controller.

Operation Principle:
- The module connects to a PC via USB 2.0.
- The internal GPIB controller manages communication timing and handshaking.
- Data is transmitted through 8 parallel data lines and 3 handshake lines.
- The onboard FIFO memory buffers data to ensure stable, high-speed communication independent of CPU load.
- LED indicators provide visual feedback of communication status and error conditions.

Typical Applications:
- Automated test equipment (ATE) systems.
- Laboratory instrumentation control.
- Production line measurement and monitoring.
- Research and development data acquisition.
- Portable test setups requiring USB connectivity.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems.
- Integrates with LabVIEW via the VI-DAQ library.
- Supports up to 15 GPIB instruments on a single bus.
- Works with standard GPIB cables and connectors (IEEE-488 standard).

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- GP-IB(USB)FL main unit.
- 1.8 m USB 2.0 cable (attached or detachable depending on configuration).
- Software driver package (Windows/Linux).
- User manual and setup guide.

Optional Accessories:
- GPIB Cables:
- *PCN-T02*: 2 m double-shielded GPIB cable.
- *PCN-T04*: 4 m double-shielded GPIB cable.
- GPIB Connector Adapter:
- *CN-GP/C*: Connector adapter designed for high-noise environments or when connecting to extension slots or adjacent boards.
- Software Tools:
- API-TOOL Drivers (Windows/Linux).
- VI-DAQ library for LabVIEW integration.

Connectors:
- 24-pin IEEE-488 standard connector (plug type).
- USB Type-B interface for host connection.

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6. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:
- PC with available USB 2.0 or 1.1 port.
- Supported operating systems: Windows (various versions), Linux.
- Administrative privileges for driver installation.

Installation Steps:
1. Connect the GP-IB(USB)FL to the PC using the supplied USB cable.
2. The device is bus-powered; no external power supply is required.
3. Install the appropriate driver package (API-TOOL for Windows/Linux).
4. Verify device recognition in the operating system’s device manager.
5. Connect GPIB instruments using standard IEEE-488 cables.
6. Configure communication parameters using the provided API or LabVIEW VI library.

Mounting Options:
- Desktop placement for laboratory use.
- Portable deployment for field testing.
- Can be secured using optional brackets or cable attachments to prevent accidental disconnection.

Configuration:
- Device address and communication parameters are set via software.
- Diagnostic utilities allow verification of interrupt and I/O access.
- LED indicators assist in confirming operational status.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 1.5 Mbyte/sec (maximum theoretical GPIB throughput).
- USB Throughput: Up to 480 Mbps (USB 2.0 High-Speed mode).
- FIFO Buffer: 2 Kbyte for both transmission and reception, ensuring stable data flow.
- Bus Control: Supports standard GPIB controller functions including addressing, handshaking, and SRQ handling.
- Line Monitoring: Capable of monitoring control lines (IFC, ATN, SRQ, REN, EOI, DAV, NRFD, NDAC).
- Bus Limitations: Up to 15 devices per bus; maximum total cable length 20 m (4 m between devices recommended).
- CPU Load: Minimal, as communication is managed by the onboard controller.
- Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial and laboratory environments.
- Limitations: Bus master transfer and bus analyzer functions available on other F-series models are not supported on the GP-IB(USB)FL due to USB architecture constraints.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Communication Standards: IEEE-488.1 and IEEE-488.2 compliant.
- USB Compliance: USB 2.0/1.1 standard compliant.
- Electrical Standards: Negative logic signaling per IEEE-488 specifications.
- Environmental Compliance: Pb-free (lead-free) design; RoHS compliance pending or in progress.
- Software Standards: Compatible with Windows Win32API, Linux shared library modules, and LabVIEW VI-DAQ interface.
- Industry Standards: Suitable for use in industrial automation, measurement, and control systems adhering to IEEE-488 protocols.
- Safety & EMC: Designed to meet industrial-grade reliability and electromagnetic compatibility standards (manufacturer internal compliance).

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9. Additional Information

Warranty & Support:
- Standard manufacturer warranty (typically one year; refer to CONTEC policy).
- Long-term product availability ensured by CONTEC’s proprietary GPIB controller design.
- Technical support available through CONTEC’s global portal (www.contec.com).

Maintenance:
- No periodic maintenance required beyond standard cable and connector inspection.
- Firmware updates and driver revisions available from CONTEC’s website.
- Diagnostic software assists in verifying hardware operation and communication integrity.

Software Updates:
- API-TOOL driver packages are license-free and periodically updated for OS compatibility.
- VI-DAQ library updates ensure continued LabVIEW integration support.

Product Line Context:
The GP-IB(USB)FL belongs to CONTEC’s High-Performance F Series of GPIB communication interfaces, which includes models for PCI Express, PCI, Low Profile PCI, CardBus, CompactPCI, and USB. While other models (e.g., GP-IB(PCI)F, GP-IB(LPCI)F) support bus master transfer and bus analyzer functions, the GP-IB(USB)FL focuses on portability and ease of use through USB connectivity.

Typical Use Environments:
- Research laboratories requiring flexible instrument control.
- Production test benches where USB connectivity simplifies setup.
- Educational institutions for teaching automated measurement systems.
- Field service engineers needing portable GPIB control capability.

Summary of Advantages:
- Eliminates need for internal GPIB cards.
- Simplifies instrument connectivity via plug-and-play USB interface.
- Compact, reliable, and cost-effective solution for modern PCs and laptops.
- Supported by robust, cross-platform software ecosystem.

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Comprehensive Summary

The CONTEC GP-IB(USB)FL is a high-performance, compact USB-to-GPIB interface module engineered for seamless integration of IEEE-488 instruments with modern computers. Fully compliant with USB 2.0 and IEEE-488.1/488.2 standards, it delivers up to 1.5 Mbyte/sec GPIB transfer speed while drawing power directly from the USB bus. Its bus-powered, portable design and LED communication indicators make it ideal for laboratory, industrial, and field applications.

The device supports Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW environments through CONTEC’s API-TOOL and VI-DAQ software packages, enabling developers and engineers to build automated test and measurement systems with minimal setup effort. With a 2 Kbyte FIFO buffer, robust signal integrity, and support for up to 15 GPIB devices, the GP-IB(USB)FL ensures reliable, high-speed communication across a wide range of instruments.

As part of CONTEC’s F Series GPIB Communication lineup, the GP-IB(USB)FL complements other bus interface models (PCI, PCI Express, CardBus, CompactPCI) by offering a USB-based alternative that prioritizes portability and ease of deployment. Its lead-free construction, diagnostic utilities, and long-term availability underscore CONTEC’s commitment to quality and sustainability in industrial automation and measurement solutions.

Global Portal: [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)