Remote Control and Instrument Drivers
The following ten chapters describe the basics of the remote control for the Rohde & Schwarz test and measurement instruments. They are focused on automation of a measurement tasks with the use of a programming or a scripting language. Included are:
- "Hello World" examples for R&S Forum , Python (Pycharm or Spyder) , MATLAB , C# , LabVIEW and CVI
- Complex examples with direct SCPI for R&S Forum , Python (Pycharm or Spyder) , MATLAB , C# , LabVIEW and CVI
- Complex examples with instrument drivers for C# , LabVIEW and CVI
The last chapter covers remote operation, which is not automated, and uses PC tools such as Remote Desktop, or dedicated apps on a mobile device.
To search and download instrument drivers, please follow the link Search for instrument drivers .

First steps to create a 'Hello World' remote control program.
Here you also find a complete list of all examples used in this guide.

The reason to automate a measurement task, the advantages automation brings and the basic components of an automated test setup.

Standardized almost 30 years ago, the 'SKIPPY' commands are still used in the most modern Test and Measurement instruments.

Why the topic of VISA always comes up in reference to remote control.
Connect to your instrument with VISA Tester Tool and monitor the communication using I/O Trace utility.

4 - VISA in Programming Languages
Using VISA in different programming languages including practical examples.

5 - Instruments Drivers vs. Direct SCPI
Should your application use direct SCPI commands, or take advantage of the Rohde & Schwarz instrument drivers?

6 - Measurement Synchronization
Introducing measurement synchronization topic which is critical for correct remote control measurements.
Here, you can also find links to complete examples using direct SCPI commands and instrument drivers.

Often neglected in remote control applications.
If you perform it properly, it will save you a lot of time and frustration.

General hints to optimize your application to help obtain the measurement results you require as fast as possible without affecting their quality.

9 - Fastest Communication Interface
How various physical communication interfaces behave in terms of speed.

References to articles and papers describing remote operation, where no programming or scripting is involved.
If you want to operate your instrument remotely from a PC, laptop, tablet, or a mobile phone, this chapter is the right source of references for you.
- Chapters Overview
- Getting Started
- 1 - Basics of Remote Control
- 2 - Introducing SCPI Commands
- 3 - VISA and VISA Tools
- 4 - VISA in Prog. Languages
- 5 - Instr. Drivers vs. Direct SCPI
- 6 - Measurement Synchronization
- 7 - Instrument Error Checking
- 8 - Speed Optimization
- 9 - Fastest Comm. Interface
- 10 - Remote Operation
- Glossary