Application Notes

SPD1000X Series

Programmimg Example: Controlling an SPD power supply via Sockets over LAN

January 4, 2021

Here is a Python 3.6 example of using sockets to control an SPD power supply connected to a computer using LAN. NOTE: The SPD uses VXI-11 protocol for LAN. On some systems, it is helpful to use the VXI-11 format for the IP address: “TCPIP::ip.add.re.ss::INSTR” Here is the program in full:  

Power Supply Design: Load Step Response with a SIGLENT DC Electronic Load

April 3, 2020

Building a power supply that can handle various loads without oscillating can be a challenge. Computational models and computer simulations can help get your design headed in the right direction, but physical testing is essential to proving the performance of your design. One method of quickly determining stability is to use a load step response. … Continued

Secure products without K-lock slots

May 27, 2019

Many products have Kensington, or K-lock slots to help provide a location to secure a cable lock or other device to help prevent theft. Some products do not have locations for cable lock connections. In this case, we recommend using a special glue or physical attachment system to secure the cable to the case of … Continued

Programming Example: List connected VISA compatible resources using PyVISA

February 19, 2019

PyVISA is a software library that enables Python applications to communicate with resources (typically instruments) connected to a controlling computer using different buses, including: GPIB, RS-232, LAN, and USB. This example scans and lists the available resources. It requires PyVISA to be installed (see the PyVISA documentation for more information) *** #Example that scans a … Continued

Verification of a working remote communications connection using NI – MAX

November 19, 2018

Automating a test can dramatically increase the productivity, throughput, and accuracy of a process. Automating a setup involves connecting a computer to the test instrumentation using a standard communications bus like USB or LAN and then utilizing code entered via a software layer (like LabVIEW, .NET, Python, etc..) to sequence the specific instrument commands and … Continued

Programming Example: Using VXI11 (LXI) and Python for LAN control without sockets

October 8, 2018

In an effort to meet the demands of remote monitoring and control, modern test instrumentation is leveraging more communications busses and than ever before. Each type of bus can also have numerous layers that can be utilized for specific advantages. The VXI bus and subsequent software drivers form a convenient software API that can make remote control … Continued

Open Socket LAN connection using Python

October 20, 2017

Automating a test can dramatically increase the productivity, throughput, and accuracy of a process. Automating a setup involves connecting a computer to the test instrumentation using a standard communications bus like USB or LAN and then utilizing code entered via a software layer (like LabVIEW, .NET, Python, etc..) to sequence the specific instrument commands and … Continued