Basic question

[systemcrash]

I have a system which has Ehternet, RS-232, RS-485, Profibus, Devicenet ports for communication. I have done RS-232 communication, but never had hands on with Ethernet, and other types mentioned.

Some commands what I have for RS 232 are same for ethernet, devicenet, profibus, so in this case should I just use VISA for ethernet communication by providing IP addr, or use specific TCP/IP api's?

Thanks for your help

[Mark_Yedinak]

You can use the VISA commands for the Ethernet communications. I suspect that you will need specific drivers for the Profibus and Devicenet communications. These are both different standards. Even though the command you send is th esame th e mechanism for sending the command is different.

[JÞB]

That is the beauty of VISA.  you just need to know WHAT to send.  VISA handles the how.  Mark's comments on specific drivers for busses withou VISA support is also on point.  You may need to select a specific VISA session class if the device needs bus specific handshaking - but - usually the VISA Instr class can offer enough flexability if the device on the other end was well designed.