GPIB-140A: Product OverviewThe National Instruments GPIB-140A is a media conversion unit that extends the operational range of IEEE-488 (General Purpose Interface Bus) systems beyond their standard copper cable limitations. This device serves as a protocol-transparent bridge between conventional GPIB equipment and fiber optic cabling, enabling reliable communication in electrically noisy environments or over extended distances where standard GPIB cabling would be impractical or unreliable.Installed as a pair of units—one at the controller end and one at the instrument end—the extender converts electrical GPIB signals to optical signals for transmission over fiber optic cable, then back to electrical signals at the remote location. This configuration maintains full GPIB protocol compliance while providing complete electrical isolation between the controller and instruments. The system supports all GPIB handshaking, bus management, and data transfer commands without requiring software modifications to existing test systems.
NI GPIB-140A 2
GPIB-140A: Technical Specifications
• Model Number: GPIB-140A
• Manufacturer: National Instruments
• Product Type: GPIB-to-Fiber Optic Extender
• Standard Compliance: IEEE-488.2
• Maximum Distance: 2 km (1.24 miles) using 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber
• Fiber Type: Multimode, 62.5/125 µm
• Data Transfer: Bidirectional, protocol transparent
• Data Rate: Supports full GPIB speed (up to 1 MByte/s)
• Connectors:
• GPIB: Standard IEEE-488 (24-pin)
• Fiber Optic: ST connectors (transmit and receive)
• Power Supply: 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• Status Indicators: Power, fiber link, GPIB activity
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
NI GPIB-140A 2
Core Features & Customer ValueThe primary value of this extender is its ability to maintain GPIB system functionality over extended distances while providing complete electrical isolation. For test engineers working in industrial environments, this eliminates ground loop problems and protects sensitive equipment from voltage transients that can occur when devices are connected to different power circuits or located in areas with different ground potentials.The protocol transparency ensures compatibility with existing GPIB equipment and software, allowing for seamless integration without requiring code modifications or driver updates. The LED status indicators provide immediate diagnostic information about link integrity and data activity, simplifying troubleshooting and reducing system maintenance time. The extended 2 km range enables flexible laboratory and factory layouts that wouldn’t be possible with standard GPIB cabling limitations.Typical ApplicationsIn automotive test facilities, the GPIB-140A enables control of instrumentation in electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) chambers from computers located in control rooms, preventing interference with sensitive measurements.In semiconductor manufacturing, the extender allows wafer test equipment to be controlled from cleanroom observation areas while the instruments remain located near the production equipment.
We've got you covered
We give you access to a global supply of automation parts at your fingertips, ensuring that manufacturers around the world can avoid unnecessary downtime and continue to do what they do best – making our world possible.
Full 12-month warranty on all components
Dedicated after-sales support
Same-day dispatch on 1000s of parts
All units are fully tested
Continue Searching
We're here when you need us
What happens next?
1. Email confirmation
You will get an email confirming that we have received your enquiry.
2. Dedicated Account Manager
One of our team will be in touch to confirm your part(s) specification and condition.
3. Your quote
You will receive a comprehensive quote tailored to your specific needs.
Full 12-month warranty
Available for dispatch immediately
We deliver worldwide
Full 12-month warranty on all components
Full 12-month warranty on all components
