4. An interface according to claim 3 wherein the first physical format differs from the standard physical format and the second physical format differs from the standard physical format, and wherein the physical compatibility means comprises: a first translator element connected between the executive means and the instrument, the first translator element changing the physical format of digital signals communicated to and from the instrument to effect physical compatibility, and a second translator element connected between the executive means and the host computer, the second translator element changing the physical format of digital signals communicated to and from the host computer to effect physical compatibility.
4. An interface according to claim 3 wherein the first physical format differs from the standard physical format and the second physical format differs from the standard physical format, and wherein the physical compatibility means comprises: a first translator element connected between the executive means and the instrument, the first translator element changing the physical format of digital signals communicated to and from the instrument to effect physical compatibility, and a second translator element connected between the executive means and the host computer, the second translator element changing the physical format of digital signals communicated to and from the host computer to effect physical compatibility. 9. An interface according to claim 4 wherein the second translator element is incorporated with the executive means into a single unit.