MKS PR4000 Mass Flow controller driver example

[Blokk]

Overview

There is an old official LabVIEW driver for the MKS PR4000 controller, but it is outdated and uses the "Bytes at Port" method for the communication with some Wait functions to make it work 

This example project shows how to setup a lightweight driver for the PR4000 controller (to control mass flow controllers), and the code uses proper Request/Response communication with termination character, unlike the official MKS driver.  

Description

The following features are implemented:

• Read actual flow rate
• Set/Read setpoint
• Autozero (note that, you need to use the physical "OFF" button on the PR4000 front panel before you attempt an Autozero command, then the "ON" button can make the flow controller active again)

Hardware and Software Requirements

MKS PR4000 two channel controller, and one or two MKS Mass Flow Controller. RS232 or RS485 (only if the PR4000 has this interface) interface at the PC side, serial cable with DB9 connectors (cross or so called "null-modem" cable).

Steps to Implement or Execute Code

Open the "MAIN.vi", and discover the implemented example in the block diagram. Modify as you need, and run the code.

Additional Information or References

Project folder zipped as LV 2017 and 2014 versions.

MKS PR4000 product page:

https://www.mksinst.com/product/Product.aspx?ProductID=831