IEEE 488, also known as the General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB), is a standard for connecting and controlling multiple electronic instruments. Developed in the late 1960s, it allows devices like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and signal generators to communicate with each other and with a computer. This standard facilitates data transfer and control commands, making it easier to automate testing and measurement processes. The IEEE 488 interface supports up to 15 devices on a single bus, using a parallel communication method. It operates at speeds up to 1 megabyte per second, ensuring efficient data exchange. This standard has been widely adopted in laboratories and industries for its reliability and ease of use.