How to include a TestStand sub-sequence as a step in the insertion palette?

[ashwincirruslogic]

Let us say I have a sequence file with a Sub-Sequence, Sequence_x, which has 4 parameters. I want to include this subsequence as a step in the insertion palette. How do I do it? (I have TestStand 2017). 

[RoxtheFox]

Hi Ashwin, 

Add the seqeunce to the tempelates found in the lower left corner of the sequence editor. That sequence will be available now for all or your sequence files on that station for that version. See template list in Insertion Palette Pane Help.

Thanks,

Roxy

[ashwincirruslogic]

Hi Roxy,

Thanks for the reply. I intentionally mentioned Insertion Palette because my use case involves dropping the sub-sequence as a step without creating a sub-sequence in my calling sequence.

I want my sub-sequence to be single sourced and I want to be able to drop it in my code as a step. A sub-sequence in Templates adds a new sub-sequence. That was my initial approach as well.

Thanks,

Ashwin

[RoxtheFox · Accepted solution]

Hi Ashwin, 

Creating a custom step type then is the way to go. In MyTypes.ini you can add a step type, right click and go to properties. In properties, you can designate the sequence call adapter on the General tab as such:

If you click on the default modules, you'll have the ability to specify a sequence call that you would like to use as the default option for this step. Given that it is in MyTypes.ini, it'll be available to all sequences. 

Note - I would read the article for best practices for custom step types (linked right above). There can be many unwanted issues such as type viruses that can be avoided with diligent development and awareness of how types work in TestStand. 

Thanks!

Roxy

[ashwincirruslogic]

Thanks Roxy!

That's exactly what I'm looking for. I tried creating the custom step and got it working! (Now onto creating a deployment mechanism arghh..)

Thanks,

Ashwin