Chapter
8
© SP Industries, Inc.
200-31974-999 Rev. 009
59
Remote
Computer
Operation
An operator can control the ThermoJet functions from a remote interface. The ThermoJet can
interact with automatic test equipment by integrating commands into a program. This system has
a full variety of commands which it can listen for and respond too. These commands give the
operator full functionality of the ThermoJet from a remote source. Below is a detailed list of the
available commands which the ThermoJet will recognize. All commands are case sensitive and
must be in CAPITAL letters
The ThermoJet comes with a serial communication port and a GPIB communication port. These
ports are located on the rear grill to the right of the main circuit breaker (described in chapter 3).
The PLC communication is serial based and if a GPIB machine is purchased the ThermoJet
comes equipped with an internal GPIB to Serial converter board.
RS232 Operation
When controlling the ThermoJet via RS232, a carriage return (0D hex) must be appended to the
end of the transmission string. (Refer to www.asciitable.com) Additionally, the ThermoJet comes
with a serial cable to connect the rear panel to the remote computer. If this cable is misplaced, a
standard “straight thru” cable can be a viable replacement, or contact FTS service and we can
ship one to you immediately.
Troubleshooting RS232
If a problem occurs and communication is not, or seems not to be communicating properly, FTS
recommends the following:
•
Test communications using Windows HyperTerm,
o
Check the following
Serial parameters on both the computer and the ThermoJet,
Termination character, and
Cable
•
If problem persists contact FTS Service Department.
GPIB Operation
When the GPIB internal converter is in use the RS232 to GPIB IEEE converter must be
connected. The converter board is located inside the electrical box for your convenience. It has
been programmed to accept the standard IEEE 488.2 commands. FTS verifies and checks the
IEEE converter board using National Instruments, Measurement and Automation program. Refer
to page 44 and 45 to set up GPIB.
Troubleshooting GPIB Communications
Set up the GPIB controller so the termination methods include but are not limited too the
following:
•
Send EOI at end of Write
•
Terminate Read on EOS
•
EOS Byte set to 13 Decimal. (13 Decimal is equal to 0D hex or Carriage Return)
If this is not done the system will be able to write commands to the THJ80, but the response or
query may be very slow acting.
