Programming a BK precision 8500 in List Mode?

[RTRT]

Has anyone programmed a BK precision 8500 in List Mode?

[Nick_D]

Hey RTRT,

I haven't specifically worked with that instrument, but I still should be able to help you. What seems to be the issue you're experiencing?

Regards,

Nick D.

[RTRT]

Hi NIck:  My VI sends all the commands in order for this unit to operate in list mode.  When I start the VI, I get the displays on the front panel showing that the input is on, the unit is in list mode, and that it's operating in remote control.  99% of the time the unit doesn't run even when it is sent a trigger command.  When I put the unit into local control I can manually check all the inputs and find that they're all correct.  I guess that my problem is that I just can't get it to start 100% of the time.  I'm thinking I must have some type of trigger problem.  Anyway, any inputs from you would be greately appreciated.  Thank you.

[Nick_D]

Hey RTRT,

It seems like this may just be the result of syntax problems. A good troubleshooting strategy would be to use NI-Spy to make sure that the syntax you're sending out is exactly the way that you hope it too. To use NI-Spy, just go to Start->Programs->National Instruments->NI-Spy.

I would double check to make sure the final trigger command is exactly the way that it is in the manual, and also, I would try to end the trigger commands with a \r or \n or both \r\n. It would not hurt to put a return character or new line character on the trigger line.

Also, you could try to manually send in the commands the way that you want using Measurement and Automation explorer, and use the GPIB test panel to send the commands. If you can get that working, then using labVIEW to program it shouldn't be much more difficult.

Can you let me know if these troubleshooting strategies help?

Good luck!

Regards,

Nick D.

[RTRT]

Nick:  I finally got this thing going.  I found that I need to add a delay between each command and for some reason, if I send the trigger signal twice, the thing works.  I spoke to the manufacture, BK Precision, and told them that there were a fair amount of errors in their manual along with a lack of clarity in various areas.  In turns out that they were aware of this but never said anything.  Anyway, it works.  Thanks for your comments.

[Kohho]

I'm trying to communicate to my BK Precision 8500.  I'm just using a simple serial port VI and am entering the 20H command which should set it to remote mode.  When I issue the command I see the "Link" indicator on the BK appear for a few seconds and "sometimes" the unit switches into remote mode - mostly it just stays in the front-panel mode.  Any ideas?

Thanks,
Carl Dempsey
Cadex Electronics

[RTRT]

Carl:  I just figured out how to program the 8500 in list mode.  While doing this I learned a variety of "secrets" about this dumb thing.  I called BK several times and those guys really don't know anything.  In order to help you, what exactly are you trying to program this thing to do?

[Kohho]

I'm trying to set the BK 8500 in List Mode to discharge a battery and different currents: 3 seconds at 1800 mA, 3 seconds at 200 ma and 54 seconds at 60 mA.  Repeat until the battery voltage drops to a certain threshold.

I found out why I was having trouble issuing  the "Remote" command (operator error) but would be interested to find out what you learned from BK.  If it is possible please post or send me the details (carl.dempsey@cadex.com).

By the way, I'm curious to learn why you have chosen the BK 8500.  I find it to be quite an interesting (and hopefully useful) device for battery testing.

[Carlos_Ing]

Hello, I'm doing a program on LabView for the communication (RS-232) in remotely with the burden BK 8500. I have trouble receiving data, the byte start moves the AA and the data obtained is wrong when it comes to read it. If anyone knows the topic and may help me thank you very much.

[Sputnikrent]

Hi Carlos,

Could you explain a bit more about what you mean by "byte start moves the AA"?. Have you tried using the Basic Serial Write and Read example VI? This example VI can be found in the NI Example Finder. Start LabVIEW, then go to Help > Find Examples > Hardware Input and Output > Serial > Basic Write and Read.vi.

Let us know how it goes!