The HP/Agilent 54651A is an RS-232 I/O module that extends the capabilities of HP 54600 series oscilloscopes with serial communication and remote control functionality. This interface module plugs into the rear panel and establishes an RS-232-C connection to external devices, enabling full programmable control of the oscilloscope, direct hardcopy output to compatible printers and plotters, and bidirectional data transfer. The module also renders the oscilloscope’s two pixel trace memories nonvolatile, preserving stored waveforms across power cycles.
Technical Specifications
Serial Interface
• RS-232-C protocol
• 9-pin DTE connector
• Configurable baud rates: 1200, 2400, 9600, or 19200 baud (default 9600 baud)
• Programmable handshake protocol via oscilloscope I/O menu
Output Compatibility
• Epson FX-80 compatible printers
• HP-PCL compatible printers
• HP-GL compatible plotters
Memory
• Two nonvolatile pixel trace memories
– Key Features
• Full remote programmability and control from external controllers
• Hardcopy output to serial printers and plotters without intermediate storage
• Live waveform data transfer to external devices or computers
• Persistent trace memory—no data loss on power removal
• Configurable communication settings through Print/Utility menu on oscilloscope
– Typical Applications
Automated test system integration, remote oscilloscope operation from control computers, direct waveform documentation via serial printer or plotter, long-term waveform archival in nonvolatile memory.
– Compatibility & Integration
Designed exclusively for HP 54600 series oscilloscopes. Requires RS-232 cables appropriate to DTE pinout. Settings such as baud rate and handshake protocol are accessible and configurable through the oscilloscope’s front-panel menu system.
