HP-IB 82937A interface for Hewlett-Packard Series 80 Computers

The HP-IB 82937A is a hardware and software interface for Hewlett-Packard Series 80 Computers that enables IEEE 488-1978 compliant communication with up to 14 HP-IB compatible instruments per interface. The system supports bidirectional, asynchronous data acquisition and instrument control through an onboard interface processor managing bus protocol and device addressing.

Technical Specifications

• Standard Compliance: IEEE 488-1978 Digital Interface for Programmable Instrumentation


• Device Capacity: Up to 14 HP-IB compatible instruments per interface


• Maximum Bus Cable Length: 20 meters total


• Data Transfer Rates:

Transfer Interrupt: 400 bytes/s

Enter & Output: 1400 bytes/s (Input), 3000 bytes/s (Output)

Transfer FHS: 26.2K bytes/s (Input), 25.5K bytes/s (Output)

Absolute Maximum: 26K bytes/s

• Data Lines: Eight bidirectional data lines for input and output


• Bus Addressing: 32 valid addresses (0–31); factory-set address is 21 (decimal)


• Select Code: Eight possible select codes (range 3–10); factory setting is 7


• Handshake Protocol: Three-wire handshake mechanism for device-speed-adaptive communication

Key Features

• Configurable as system controller or non-system controller (factory default: system controller)


• Interrupt-capable with I/O ROM support: active controller, active talker, active listener, service request (SRQ), interface clear (IFC), device clear (DCL/SDC), device trigger (GET), and secondary command (SCG)


• Parallel poll response configurable via jumper wire; factory configuration asserts bit 0 of data lines during SRQ


• Interface processor handles efficient protocol management across the HP-IB bus

Electrical Characteristics

• IEEE 488-1978 maximum electrical capability: 15 devices including controller


• Implements standard open-collector/open-drain bus architecture

Compatibility & Integration Designed for integration with Hewlett-Packard Series 80 Computers and HP-IB compatible instruments and peripherals compliant with IEEE 488-1978.