GPIB Switches

GPIB switches enable several GPIB controllers to share one or more GPIB devices, or they allow a single GPIB controller to operate multiple GPIB bus systems. Users of up to four computers can share a single GPIB device such as a printer or plotter. GPIB switches may also be used to select various peripherals independently. Using GPIB switches is a very cost-effective way for several users to maximize the potential of a GPIB peripheral device. GPIB switches may be used as bus switches, or as multiplexers.  If used as a bus switch, the device allows a GPIB controller, connected to the common port, select and control devices attached to the other ports.  If used as a multiplexer, device allows the bus controller connected to the general ports to share the common bus and any devices connected to it.