How can I create an application in MSVC 6.0 to access my FieldPoint modules with CVI 5.0 libraries?

[QC_Chad]

I have an application in CVI 5.0 that works. I am trying to export that so I can develop in MSVC. I need none of the UI provided in CVI, all I need are the simple FieldPoint commands provided in FieldPoint.obj. I have been stumped on this for weeks. I would write my own OPC client but the interface isn't even documented on what commands I would send if I did have an interface. I would prefer just to use the CVI libraries in MSVC 6.0. When I call the FP_Open function the program crashes with an RtlSizeHeap error.

Thanks,
Chad

[JohnM]

In theory, creating a dll that encapsulates the FieldPoint functions should work in MSVC. However, National Instruments has not tested MSVC interface, nor have we publicized that this type of setup will work, therefore making support unavailable. The other reason for why we do not offer support of FieldPoint in MSVC is that we have not seen a demand for such an interface. Therefore, I recommend that you create an OPC Client that communicates with the FieldPoint OPC Server. One example of such an OPC Client in MSVC is to use Datasockets, found in ComponentWorks++. You can find this example at the following web site:

http://zone.ni.com/devzone/devzoneweb.nsf/opendoc?openagent&8FEAB5F73CFB68278625683A000B06ED&cat=7CDA3E51FEFC4AA2862568B80071A1E2

If you are using the
serial network module (FP-1000/1001), you can communicate with the FieldPoint modules using the Optomux protocol. For a complete listing of the Optomux commands refer to the FP-1000/1001 Programer Reference Manual located at the following web site:

http://digital.ni.com/manuals.nsf/caba5d53e9b015a186256793004eebb7/bf97516ca18eee728625665e0063594e?OpenDocument

Best Regards,

JohnM

[QC_Chad]

I went out and got component works. I cannot get DataSockets to work without having a dialog display. Is it possible to use the DataSockets component in a simple application with no dialog (ie COM object or console app)? This functionality is necessary for automation. It would be excellent if there were some example code to show how to do this.

Thanks,
Chad

[QC_Chad]

I figured it out. Adding Component Works++ to an existing COM object you must add the line "using namespace NI;". This allows you to use the components that do not need a dialog container to instantiate.

Thanks for the help.
Chad