Interfacing three RS232 devices using GPIB

[coolraj]

HI ,
I have three devices,a data logger,spectrum analyser and a signal generator.All the three devices are rs232 compatible.We have the IEEE 488.2 and GPIB cables.I'm new to this type of interfacing so can somebody help me out with this and tell me how the RS232 devices can be interfaced.Please pass on any literature which explains the whole procedure.
Thanks in Advance,
Rajan

[Sarah Thompson]

Rajan,
Allow me to clarify. RS-232 and IEEE 488.2 (GPIB) are two very different modes of communication.

RS-232 is also known as serial. Generally, it uses a 9-pin connector from the instrument to a COM port on a PC. It requires no extra hardware, but it is slow - only 1 bit at a time.

GPIB has a 25 pin connector and connects to a GPIB interface such as PCI, ENET, or USB. While it requires the purchase of a GPIB interface, it is much faster than serial communication - 1 byte at a time.

Most instruments can communicate through GPIB and serial. Which one you choose will be based on speed requirements and willingness to purchase additional hardware.

For additional support resources: http://ni.com/support/gpibsupp.htm and http://ni.com/support/ser
lsupp.htm

Good luck with your application.