Description
The National Instruments GPIB-120A is a GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) Expander/Isolator designed to enhance the functionality and reliability of GPIB systems. This device supports a broad range of part numbers, including 776564-01, 776564-02, 776564-03, 776564-04, 776564-05, and 776564-06, ensuring a wide compatibility and selection for specific needs.
Belonging to the GPIB category, the GPIB-120A model adheres to the IEEE 488.1 standard, which is a critical specification for ensuring interoperability and functionality within GPIB networks. This expander/isolator is capable of supporting up to 28 devices, making it an excellent choice for complex setups requiring multiple instruments and devices to communicate with each other.
One of the key features of the GPIB-120A is its robust electrical isolation capabilities. It offers an operating electrical isolation of 60 V, and a breakdown electrical isolation of 1600 V. This high level of isolation is essential for protecting sensitive equipment and ensuring stable operation in electrically noisy environments.
The device employs various connector types, including Amphenol or Cinch series 57 Microribbon or Amp Champ, providing flexibility in connecting different GPIB instruments. Additionally, it is equipped with 7 front panel LEDs for easy monitoring of the device’s status and activity.
With 16 signal lines—comprising 5 interface management lines, 3 handshake lines, and 8 data lines—the GPIB-120A ensures comprehensive control and data transfer capabilities. Despite its extensive functionality, the device has a modest power requirement of 27 VA and introduces a data transfer rate degradation of only 250 ns per byte, minimizing the impact on system performance.
The physical dimensions of the GPIB-120A are 3.5 x 8.5 x 13.0 inches, making it a compact yet robust addition to any GPIB setup.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 776564-01, 776564-02, 776564-03, 776564-04, 776564-05, 776564-06 |
| Category | GPIB |
| Model | GPIB-120A |
| Description | National Instruments GPIB-120A GPIB Expander/Isolator |
| IEEE Standard | 488.1 |
| Maximum Devices Supported | 28 |
| Electrical Isolation (Operating) | 60 V |
| Electrical Isolation (Breakdown) | 1600 V |
| Connector Type | Amphenol or Cinch series 57 Microribbon or Amp Champ |
| Front Panel LEDs | 7 |
| Signal Lines | 16 (5 interface management, 3 handshake, 8 data) |
| Power Requirement | 27 VA |
| Data Transfer Rate Degradation | 250 ns per byte |
| Case Dimensions (inches) | 3.5 x 8.5 x 13.0 |
| Case Material | Question 1: What standard does the GPIB-120A adhere to?

