10.10  Common Commands 
Common commands begin with an * and consist of three letters (command) or three letters 
and a ? (query).  Common commands are defined by the IEEE 488.2 standard to perform 
some common interface functions.  The power source responds  to the required common 
commands that control status reporting, synchronization, and internal operations.  RP Series 
units also respond to optional common commands that control stored operating parameters. 
Common commands and queries are listed alphabetically.  If a command has a 
corresponding query that simply returns the data or status specified by the command, then 
both command and query are included under the explanation for the command.  If a query 
does not have a corresponding command or is functionally different from the command, then 
the query is listed separately.  The description for each common command or query specifies 
any status registers affected.  Refer to Chapter 12 which explains how to read specific 
register bits and use the information that they return. 
Common Commands Syntax 
 *CLS  Clear status 
 *ESE <n>  Standard event status enable 
 *ESE?  Return standard event status enable 
 *ESR?  Return event status register 
 *IDN?  Return instrument identification 
 *RCL <n>  Recall instrument state 
 *RST  Reset 
 *SAV <n>  Save instrument state 
 *SRE <n>  Set service request enable register 
 *SRE?  Return service request enable register 
 *STB?  Return status byte