How do I configure Agilent N6030A modules in pxisys.ini so I can use them remotely?

[will.mavis]

I have an Agilent N6030A ARB that is physically connected to PC A using NI MXI-4/NI PXI 0145/etc.  I would like to be able to use it from PC B.  It seems like NI-MAX is the way to go.  So far, I have PC A recognizing the MXI-4 and chassis and I have PC B remotely connected to PC A, but all my slots show up as unknown/empty on PC A and PC B can only see the MXI-4, NI Trigger Routing Module, a BACKPLANE, and a MEMACC.

I know my devices work, because I can connect to them using Agilent N6030A Control Utility on PC A (which also tells me the PXI addresses).

I'm guessing I have to update my pxisys.ini file to let NI-MAX know where my devices are, but I haven't had much luck finding documentation to help me (Agilent or NI).

I could just be looking in the wrong places.  Any help setting up NI-MAX to work with non-NI modules would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Will

[Adam W]

Hi Will,

When you identify your chassis in MAX, are you using a chassis.ini file provided by Agilent?  Also, do neither PC see anything in the slots of your chassis?

There is a little more information on the pxisys.ini file in the following KB and its related links.

Regards,

Adam W
Applications Engineering

[will.mavis]

I've heard back from Agilent that they don't think I will be able to use NI-MAX to connnect to the N6030A devices because it does not actually use VISA.  They do describe in the help file how to setup the N6030A in the IVI Drivers section of NI-MAX, which I've done and seems to work.  I don't believe there is a way to see these instruments from a remote machine, though (PLEASE correct me if I'm wrong).  As far as I know, this is the only way NI-MAX can be configured to know about the devices.

If you know of any other solution out there to setup a server/client where I can talk to a local PXI device, I'd love to hear it!

Thanks,
Will

[Adam W]

Hi Will,

I think they are right as far as VISA goes unfortunately.  To the IVI driver, just make sure you have the compliance package installed.

Good luck with your application!

Adam W