NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01
NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01
NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01
NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01
NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01

NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01 | IEEE-488 Fiber Optic Extender

  • Brand:​ National Instruments
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    Model:​ GPIB-140A (Order Code: 186135G-01)
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    Product Type:​ GPIB-to-Fiber Optic Converter
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    Series:​ GPIB-140 Series
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    Core Function:​ Extends the transmission distance of IEEE-488 (GPIB) communication links using fiber optic cables for electrical isolation and noise immunity.
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    Key Specs:​ Bidirectional data transfer, 2 km range, full IEEE-488.2 compliance.
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Part number: NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01
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Description

GPIB-140A: Product Overview
The National Instruments GPIB-140A, with order code 186135G-01, is a GPIB-to-fiber optic converter designed to extend the operational distance of IEEE-488 (also known as GPIB or HP-IB) communication links beyond the limitations of standard copper cabling. This device functions as a bidirectional media converter, translating electrical GPIB signals into optical signals for transmission over fiber optic cables and then back to electrical signals at the remote end.
Installed between a GPIB controller (such as a computer with a GPIB interface card) and one or more GPIB instruments, its primary role is to overcome the standard GPIB cable length restriction of approximately 20 meters. By utilizing fiber optics, the module provides complete electrical isolation between devices, protecting sensitive instrumentation from ground loops, voltage spikes, and electrical noise that are common in industrial environments. The unit supports full IEEE-488.2 protocol compliance, ensuring transparent communication with all standard GPIB commands and data transfers.

NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01

NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01

GPIB-140A: Technical Specifications
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    Model Number:​ GPIB-140A
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    Manufacturer Part Number:​ 186135G-01
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    Manufacturer:​ National Instruments
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    Product Type:​ GPIB-to-Fiber Optic Converter
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    Standard Compliance:​ IEEE-488.2
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    Fiber Optic Type:​ 62.5/125 µm multimode
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    Maximum Distance:​ 2 km (1.24 miles)
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    Data Transfer:​ Bidirectional, transparent operation
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    Connectors:
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      GPIB Side:​ Standard IEEE-488 (24-pin) connector
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      Fiber Optic Side:​ Two ST-type connectors (one for transmit, one for receive)
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    Power Supply:​ 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz (internal power supply)
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    Status Indicators:​ LED indicators for power, GPIB activity, and fiber link status
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    Operating Temperature:​ 0 °C to 55 °C
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    Storage Temperature:​ -20 °C to 70 °C

    NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01

    NI GPIB-140A 186135G-01

Core Features & Customer Value
The converter’s primary value is its ability to significantly extend the range of GPIB-controlled systems​ while providing superior noise immunity. For test system engineers, this enables the placement of sensitive instrumentation in electrically noisy environments, such as on a factory floor or in a screened room, far from the control computer located in an office or control room. The complete electrical isolation​ provided by the fiber optic link eliminates ground loops and protects expensive equipment from damage caused by differences in ground potential, which is a common problem in large facilities.
The transparent operation​ means no changes are required to the application software; the converter appears as a standard GPIB cable to both the controller and the instruments. This plug-and-play functionality significantly reduces integration time and complexity. The LED status indicators​ provide immediate visual feedback for troubleshooting link integrity and data activity, simplifying system maintenance.
Typical Applications
In an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing laboratory, the GPIB-140A is used to control spectrum analyzers and signal generators located inside a shielded chamber from a computer outside, preventing noise ingress and ensuring measurement integrity.
In a large-scale manufacturing test facility, it allows a central control computer to communicate with GPIB-enabled test stations distributed across the plant floor, overcoming the distance limitations of standard GPIB cables.

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