Troubleshooting Gages

If a newly added gage or previously functioning gage does not work, you can troubleshoot by considering the following questions:

• What has changed since the last time the gage worked (previously functioning gage)?

  Verify that the project's data entry configuration has not been modified and that the correct project is loaded.

• Does the gage capture values in the Gaging Device Format Definition dialog box?

  In the Gaging Device Format Definition dialog box, click the Read Gage button to take measurements, and verify that all readings are accepted from all channels. Verify that the channel viewed in the test window matches the channel selected in the Unit/Channel setting.

• Are any other applications running?

  Shut down other applications on the computer, as they could be causing a conflict by using the InfinityQS communication port.

• How is the cabling and power?

  Verify all cabling and connections are securely fastened, and the gage device has appropriate power.

• Has the Gage Support file been altered?

  Compare the gage support file with your backup copy to see what elements may have changed.

• Have you disconnected and reconnected the RS-232 cable with the computer and gage powered on?

  While this rarely causes a problem, InfinityQS does not recommend this practice, as it may "lock up" the port. Restart the computer, gage, and gage interface (if applicable).

• Have you installed any new hardware on the computer?

  Because many PC cards are interrupt-driven, new cards that share the same interrupt request as the serial communication cards can cause unpredictable results. Remove the new interface card and retest the malfunctioning gage.

• Have you installed any new software on the computer?

  If you installed new InfinityQS software, it could have overwritten the Gage Support file. Additionally, any new communication software could have modified the gage configuration.

• Is the gage actually sending data?

  Typically, multiplexers have an LED indicator that flashes when you press the SEND button on a connected gage. If the indicator doesn't flash, check the gage and the cabling between the gage and multiplexer.

• Is the multiplexer actually transmitting?

  Some multiplexers have an LED indicator that flashes when it transmits data from its out port. If the indicator doesn't flash (or you are unsure if the multiplexer is transmitting), check the multiplexer's power supply and the cable connection between the multiplexer and the computer.

  For more information on the multiplexer's cabling and dip switch settings, please see the its operations manual.

• Are you seeing the "Hardware Detected Framing Error" message?

  The communication protocol used by the computer and the attached serial device does not match, resulting in the computer's inability to process the incoming start and stop bits correctly. Compare the Gage Server's communication protocol (Baud Rate, Parity, or Start and Stop bits) to the device's settings.

• Are you having a software or hardware problem?

  To determine whether you are having a software or hardware problem, use the Windows HyperTerminal application (or a freeware emulator) to examine the output data.

  • I cannot view the data. The problem lies in the hardware. Check with the gage manufacturer, who should be able to provide test software to help isolate the problem.
  • I can view the data. The problem lies within the Gage Server configuration. Check the settings in the Gage Server, and consider the following questions.

• Is the channel number correct?

  Verify that you have configured the correct channel in the Gaging Device Format Definition dialog box.

• Are the correct values being received?

  If the captured values are static when they should be changing, examine the readings from HyperTerminal to determine the format of the output data. If you are using an analog gage, verify that you have the latest version of the calibration key words in the gage support file.

• Are you experiencing a serial break condition?

  When the gage is not transmitting data, the serial line is at a logical zero (+3 to +15 Volts), preceded by a start bit that is always a logical one. There may be seven or eight bits of data, possibly followed by an even or odd parity bit and one or two stop bits.

  A serial break condition is a continuous logical one (-15 to -3 Volts) on the line which is what would be observed if nothing was connected.