Visa Read showing wierd data at the output.

[vivek.madhavan.13]

Hello,

I am trying to automate some measurements using LabVIEW which require me to use the Rohde & Schwarz NRV Power Meter. I am trying to make a simple measurement and display on the Read buffer indicator as shown in the figure attached.

As you can see, the data read out of the device into the read buffer indicator on the front panel is not a numeral although the power meter displays the proper reading on its display. Since, it is an RF power meter I was expecting to see something like "0" as in 0 dBm. Also, the front panel sends out a warning(code:1073676294) indicating that there might be more data than the specified number of bytes being read. How can I get VISA to get me the appropriate value? Any comment in this regard is highly appreciated.

Thank You,

Vivek

[Dennis_Knutson]

How have you set the encoding for a data read? You would typically set the instrument to send ASCII or binary. You are not setting either so my guess is that the default is binary. Have you looked at any of the R&S drivers to check for a starting point? There are drivers for the NRVS and NRVD.

[vivek.madhavan.13]

Yes I did check the NRVS and NRVD labview drivers but I did not notice any section in them that specify the encoding for data read programatically. I also tried to explore the settings of the instrument and its operation manual to see if I can set the encoding in the instrument manually but I did not find that either.

Vivek

[Dennis_Knutson]

If you can't change the encoding, then you must decode according to the instructions in the manual. The existing drivers should help you get started.