RS-232 Framing Error with HP 34401A Mulitmeter

[pkennedy32]

I am getting the following error message when I use the HP 34401A VI Version 4.3.2 with the multimeter:

Error - 1074001665 occurred at HP34401A Error Query; instrument reports: +511,"RS-232 framing error"
Possible reason(s):
Instrument Specific Error Occurred.

I checked my com port settings and the settings on the meter and they are the same. I am using a RS-232 cable and a Null modem adapter to connect between the meter and my laptop.

Is there a specific pin configuration for the RS-232 cable between the meter and the laptop? The meter changes settings and responses with the correct measured value but I still get an error message.

Attached is the screenshot of the front panel and the error code.

[CoastalMaineBird]

"Framing Error" in an RS-232 context means a very specific thing - when the receiver was expecting a stop bit, the line was not in SPACE condition. This can be the result of:
1... Baud rate mismatch (although other problems would likely crop up first).
2... Data Length problem, If I send 8 data bits and you expect 7, the stop bit is in the wrong place.
3... Parity setting mismatch - If I send 7 data bits + parity and you expect 7 data bits and no parity, the stop bit is in the wrong place.
4... Mismatch in # Stop bits - If I send you 7 Data bits + parity + one stop bit, and you expect 7 data bits + parity + TWO stop bits, the second one might not be correct, although most devices do not complain about this.


--- I would double-check ALL the com s
ettings, including the # STOP BITS - that's not shown on your screenshot.