The NI GPIB-485CT-A is an IEEE 488.2-compliant controller that bridges RS-485 serial devices and GPIB (IEEE 488) instrumentation. Built on the NAT4882 ASIC, it translates protocols between serial and GPIB networks, enabling integration of RS-485 instruments into existing GPIB systems or remote control of GPIB test systems via RS-485 links. The compact 3.0 × 1.7 × 4.7 inch form factor suits space-constrained installations including laptop-based and bench configurations without internal I/O slots.
Technical Specifications
• IEEE 488.2 Compliance: Full controller-level compliance per IEEE 488.2 standard
• Data Buffer: 256 KB RAM with FIFO operation; supports continuous acceptance from one port while the other is busy; implements handshaking for buffer management
• RS-485 Data Rate: Up to 38.4 kb/s
• GPIB Instrument Capacity: Up to 14 instruments per GPIB channel
• Communication Protocols: XON/XOFF and hardware handshake
• Operating Modes: Configurable via DIP switches—Serial (S) mode as protocol translator supporting Talker/Listener/Controller; GPIB (G) mode as Talker or Listener
• Status Reporting: Symbolic or numeric error and status reporting formats
• Input Voltage (AC): 100–120 VAC (±10%) and 220–240 VAC (±10%), 50–60 Hz; includes wall-mount or desktop power supply (100–240 VAC)
• GPIB Connector: Standard 24-pin female with screw lock
• Serial Connector: 9-pin male D-Sub (RS-485)
• RS-422 Compatibility: Supported
• Weight: 12 oz
– Key Features
• DIP switch configuration for GPIB primary address and serial port parameters (baud rate, data format, parity, stop bits, word length, termination)
• FIFO buffering enables asynchronous operation across dissimilar serial and GPIB data rates
• Extended reach: functions as GPIB extender up to 1.2 km (4,000 ft) when paired with RS-485 PC adapter (e.g., NI PCI-485)
– Compatibility & Integration
Supports NI-488.2 software for Windows 3.1/DOS and later operating systems. Compatible with RS-422 ports.
