Instrument Control (GPIB, Serial, VISA, IVI)

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usb to serial communication problems

Hi, I'm currently using 2x USB - Serial converters that have the prolific chipset on. These are used to connect 2 pc's together both running windows XP with visa 4.2 and labview evaluation 8.5. The ports are recognised by the Measurement and automation explorer and are left on default settings which are validated. The ports are also not in use by another device and are available to use. The problem comes that when i try to initiate some form of communication, in this case "basic serial write and read.vi" there is no visible communication between the vi's. Once they have stopped running the ports are classed as being in use so it seems that the connection is established correctly. Has anyone encountered this before or has an idea on how to fix it as it would be graciously appreciated
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Hi,

Have you tried a loopback test on either of the USB to serial converters? This just involves connecting pins 2 and 3 together and writing out data. You should then read that same data that was sent out. Are you sure you are using the correct cable? Direct connections like this require a Null Modem cable wich cross links the rx and tx lines (pins 2 and 3).

I hope this helps.

Jon B
Applications Engineer
NI UK & Ireland
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In case you have in doubt about null modem connections... check this out
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Yes i've tried the loopback test to check the hardware was working, everything checked out o.k. Sounds like my problem will be needing the crossover serial cable, i'll have to look into getting one.

 

Thanks for all the advice

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