RS 485 communication with non NI Instrument

[mihamm]

Hello,

i want to communicate via RS485 with a self built (non NI) Instrument. There should be only sent some messages which contain ASCII code. My favourite interface would be the built in GPIB Port of my controller. (PXI 8880) Is it possible to realize?

Regards

Michael

[santo_13]

GPIB to RS485 (you would need to find such a converter). Better you go with USB-RS485 converters available in the market and use the VISA drivers to communicate over COM port.

[crossrulz]

My first choice would be a PXI RS485 card added to the chassis.

After that would be a USB-RS485 adapter.  I've been using one from Tripp-Lite quite successfully on my current project.

[mihamm]

Hello,

because it is not a very important device, i do not want to buy cards. I have a USB-RS485 adapter available. The problem is, that i cannot find the interface in LabVIEW or VeriStand in order to send some ASCII code with VISA. I think i have to install a device driver, but because the device is selfbuilt, there will not be one. 
Do you have an idea how i can fix this problem?

Regards

[crossrulz]

Just find the COM port your USB-RS485 adapter is assigned to and then treat it like a normal serial port with VISA. 

[mihamm]

The problem is, that the adapter is displayed as usb-device and not as COM port. Where could be the reason?

[crossrulz]

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@mihamm wrote:

The problem is, that the adapter is displayed as usb-device and not as COM port. Where could be the reason?

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Likely a driver issue.  I recommend just getting this device: U208-001-IND.  I have been using it quite successfully with a current project.

[mihamm]

Thank you for the tip. Maybe I'll try the driver of this device with my adapter.
Where can I find the driver?