Keysight / Agilent / HP E1406A VXI GPIB Command Module

The Keysight E1406A is a C-size, single-slot VXI GPIB Command Module that is the system controller and primary interface between VXI backplanes and external GPIB instruments. It functions as both a VMEbus system controller and IEEE-488 to VXIbus gateway, enabling unified command and control across mixed VXI and GPIB instrument ecosystems. The module provides Slot 0 and Resource Manager functions, with onboard MXIbus Resource Manager support for VXIbus extensions in multi-mainframe configurations. ## Technical Specifications • Form Factor: C-size, 1-slot module • Memory: Up to 2 MB RAM; 1.75 MB FLASH (maximum) for downloadable drivers • Interfaces: GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232 • Programming Language: SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) • Clock Synchronization: 10 MHz VXI backplane clock; supports external TTL signal synchronization • Data Transfer: High-throughput performance via MXIbus protocol ## Key Features • Acts as VMEbus System Controller with Slot 0 Commander and Resource Manager functions • Translates SCPI commands for register-based instruments, enabling programming equivalent to message-based devices • Flexible triggering and clock interfacing for precise synchronization across the VXI backplane • MXIbus Resource Manager extends VXIbus capability across multiple mainframes • Flash-based driver storage supports programmable register-based device operation ## Typical Applications • Multi-instrument test systems combining VXI and GPIB devices • Distributed measurement and control systems requiring centralized command authority • Automated test equipment (ATE) environments with legacy GPIB instrument integration • Multi-mainframe VXI configurations requiring extended system management ## Compatibility & Integration The E1406A communicates with message-based VXI modules from any manufacturer and integrates Keysight register-based devices through SCPI command translation. It operates within standard VXI backplane architectures and supports systems utilizing SCPI programming protocols. The module's dual-interface design eliminates the need for separate GPIB controllers while maintaining full VMEbus system command authority.