error code 6

[usfoptics]

I am having a problem with Newport ESP300 Motion Controller using a GPIB interface. The controller moves the stage 100mm, but randomly it will pause for about 15 secs several times during the measurement. I get an error out code 6 with this message.

Receive in ESP Read.vi->TP - Read actual position.vi->esp_movestage2.vi->Pump&Probe_andrew4.vi

Attached is the program. Appreciate any help.

Thanks,

Andrew

[Jason W]

Hey Andrew,

GPIB Error 6 is most commonly seen as a timeout error for a read or a write. It sounds like you are getting a timeout error in the ESP Read.vi.  Does this instrument work elsewhere or is this the only place you see the error? Check the termination used in this VI. Often, improper termination is the cause of timeout error.

Are you using an instrument driver? If not then what vi's are you using? Did you get this driver from Newport? I was unable to open your program you attached because I don't have the vi's this program is using. I don't see a specific description of what the error you are seeing means. Also, are you able to communicate with the instrument in MAX?

Since I do not know much about your system, I am not sure what exactly to suggest, so I have provided some links below that talk about this error and how to correct it. Please view these documents and the potential fixes and let me know if you are still having trouble.

Knowledge Base documents:
GPIB Error Codes and Common Solutions

I hope this helps,

Jason W
Application Engineer
National Instruments

[usfoptics]

Jason,

Thanks for the response. I talked to Newport and they provided me with new VI"s. The problem was that they had written their VI's with Labview 5 or 6 and with slower computers. Now with faster computers, often, the computer will timeout the GPIB interface. They provided me with some new VI's to work with ESP300. Here they are if anyone else has this problem. If you use them, use the initialize VI, before the Send and Read. You can also add a delay in if you want.

Andrew