Cls-37 trim system (chicago laser) controlled with labview

[Electro_gab]

Do anyone tried operating a cls-37 (chicago laser) trim system with labview. Where currently using a console app that talks to the system via rs-232. I trying to modernize that, but I can't get any support from the company.

[Chris_R.]

Hello,
How exactly are you trying to modernize the process?  Are you having any trouble using RS-232?  You can try to use VISA functions to communicate with the device.  If you are using LabVIEW 7.0 or higher, you can try the Instrument I/O Assistant which is useful for instruments without drivers (provided that your LabVIEW package includes this Express VI).  Also, try running the Basic Serial Write and Read.vi example program from the Example Finder in LabVIEW by going to Help>>Find Examples... and searching for "VISA."  If your instrument responds to a command through VISA, you may be able to modify this example to get what you need in your application with the basic VISA functions.  I also suggest going to www.ni.com/idnet and selecting "Request Drivers" to submit a request to our driver development team.  The development team uses these requests when deciding which new drivers to develop.  I hope this information is useful, but let me know if you have any other questions!

Chris R.
Applications Engineer
National Instruments

[Electro_gab]

Thank's for tour reply. I'm trying to find out how the actual program speaks with the system: what are the command sent and what protocol is it using. I would like to have a program that can send trim parameter from an image and also that can process the trim data to do report and statistic. I did a request to the driver develloppement  team as you proposed and hope they'll take a look at it.

[Chris_R.]

Hello,

Once you know the commands that you will need, you may be able to set up VISA functions in LabVIEW.  Try running the Basic Serial Write and Read with the default *idn? command and see if your instrument responds.  If it does, then VISA may work for you.  If it doesn't, that still does not mean it won't work, it may mean that your instrument does not respond to that particular command.  I am not familiar with your instrument, but most of the commands and protocol information can usually be found in the user manual.  If you do not have one, contact the manufacturer or do an online search to see if you can find one.  Good luck getting things set up and let me know if you have any questions.  Have a great day!

Chris R.

Applications Engineer

National Instruments

[AnalogKid2DigitalMan]

If the company will not assist your efforts by providing commands/reponses format and communication parameter, there are "serial snooper" programs available that intercept all traffic on a serial communications port. TAL technologies rings a bell...

Once you know port parameters and what commands to send and responses the system can provide, you can then use LabView for communication.

[Sleeplessslc]

We are running a CLS-37 Opt E. Upgraded the laser and working on the controller

Robert