Using GPIB-USB-HS connect power supply PST-3202 can't respond *IDN?

[newey]

Hello All,

I have the same issue as described by this thread starter.   The NI-488.2 for Windows Version 2.4  and GPIB-USB-HS present a  timeout error when trying to communicate with PST-3202 power supply.  Also I tried to use the GPIB-USB-B with the Version 2.4 software and get the same timeout error result but if I cycle the power supply, it will work fine.  The NI-Spy result is below.  The NI-488.2 for Windows Version 2.1 and the GPIB-USB-B communicate flawlessly with the PST-3202 power supply and other instruments.

[MichaelChaney]

Hi newey,

The fact that you are having the exact same problem with this instrument only reaffirms my suspicion that this is a firmware issue with the PST-3202.  Are you using any other devices with the GPIB-USB-HS?  Please let me know if you can confirm that your GPIB-USB-HS works with other instruments.  You might also contact Instek to report this problem.

[newey]

Hello Michael,

The GPIB-USB-HS does work with other instuments but if I parallel them with Instek PST-3202 power supply, it will give me a time out error and will not communicate with any instruments.

Thanks for responding. 

[MichaelChaney]

Hi Newey,

That's the exact same problem the other posters have seen.  I would definitely contact Instek support about this.  I've made our R&D department aware of this and they're investigating this, but the early concensus is that this is a firmware issue with the instrument.  Again, the -HS does have slightly tighter timing than the -B did, but it is still well within 488.2 spec.  This is the only instrument I'm aware of that had no problems with the -B, but does with the -HS.

[Darkdave]

Hi all,
Just got the same kind of problem with pst & USB-GPIB-HS.
Seems the PST cannot always respond the same format sting.
Asking for example Voltage or Current measurment , the PST
sometimes keeps part of the data, then release it at the next
reading that means.
No way out except retrying, sorting , filtering the data, then
select and return the correct ones... that's problematic a lot.

I report to instek support last week...
No answer at all.

David

[newey]

Update:

My issue has been solved.   Instek Service and Quality Manager has sent me the EPROM replacement chips which fixed the firmware issue of PST-3202 for GPIB-USB-HS.  The replacement was a breeze.  All you have to do is take the casing off and the EPROM is located on the back of the case on the GPIB card.  Hope this help.

[Darkdave]

Waahhh
Hope I'll get the same... that's chip tuning...
Thanks for your replay.

Dave

[MichaelChaney]

I'm glad to hear that Instek has found a solution to the problem, and thanks newey for sharing your results 🙂