can't find motion controller

[jserafin]

I'm using a unidex 12 motion controller by aerotech.  My labview program was operating my motion controller well, when suddenly it couldn't find it.  I went to the measurements and automation tab to search for it, but it couldn't find the controller.  The program was able to find all of the other devices connected, but not the motion controller.  I disconnected all of the other devices except for the unidex and labview still couldn't find it.  I then took the controller and piggybacked it onto an identical motion controller (no reason for doing so).  Not only could labview not find the first motion controller, it couldn't even find the one I had piggybacked onto.  Thoughts?

[mikeporter]

Could the controller be no more, deceased, or morbund? Could it be a late controller?

Mike...

[jserafin]

I can operate the controller manually.  The controllers are old and no longer serviced by Aeroteh.  However, I don't think age is relevant because I immediately got the same problem when I connected to a second motion controller (also unidex 12).  So, now I have to motion controllers with the exact same problem.

[mikeporter]

Which interface are you using? RS232 or gpib? Can you operate it from within max?

Mike...

[jserafin]

I'm using GPIB interface and MAX to try and find the controller, but it doesn't work.   I can find other devices hooked up through GPIB using MAX and same cable.

[mikeporter]

Then I would check to make sure the gpib interface on the controller is enabled and the address is correct. Also, some old instruments didn't recognize the standard IDN command.

Mike...

[jserafin · Accepted solution]

Good news everyone:  the GPIB address had been surreptitously changed to 0 which made remote control impossible since that value is reserved for the GPIB controller.  I appreciate everyone's advice.

[mikeporter]

You're welcome, it is typical however to tag the message that pointed you in the right direction (gpib address wrong) as the solution.

Mike...