Upgrading GPIB Instruments with IoT: A Microcontroller Solution for Local Network Control of the Laboratory Devices
Image credit: UnsplashAbstract
Many laboratory instruments, such as the Keithley 2400 SourceMeter, still rely on the aging GPIB interface for communication. Traditional GPIB-to-USB converters are expensive and often require proprietary software for operation. This paper presents a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative based on an MCU-based solution (ATmega328P) with AR488 firmware, enabling communication between the Keithley 2400 and a PC via USB. A Python-based interface (using Streamlit, Pandas, NumPy, and Cryptography libraries) provides a web-accessible platform for controlling and monitoring the device over a local network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This approach not only facilitates remote access but also allows real-time data acquisition of voltage and current, while enabling full control over the Keithley instrument, which functions as both a power source and a precision multimeter. The proposed solution significantly …
Type
Publication
In IEEE International Black Sea Conference on Communications and Networking
Authors
Cătălin Creciunel
(he/him)
Research Scientist & Embedded Systems Engineer
Cătălin Creciunel is a graduate of the Technical University of Moldova,
specializing in microelectronics and nanotechnology. With over 5 years of
experience as a Research Scientist, he has developed innovative solutions
for semiconductor materials including ZnO, GaP, and InP through thermal
treatment and anodization techniques. His expertise spans embedded software
development in Python and C/C++, hardware design using CAD tools, and
nanotechnology research including semiconductor and composite nanofiber
production. Cătălin is dedicated to advancing technology through continuous
learning and innovative contributions to microelectronics and embedded
systems.