DS-1000 Operating Manual
Additional Capabilities
page 13
If There Is an Error
There are several error messages IVPC may display when taking a curve. The
DS-Tracer automatically turns off when it does not receive a command for 15
minutes. This features helps to protect the DS-Tracer battery. If the DS-Tracer
has been on for more than 15 minutes without taking a curve it will power down
and IVPC generates an error indicating that the DS-Tracer does not respond.
Turn the DS-Tracer power switch off, wait several seconds, and turn it back on.
Allow the tracer approximately 10 seconds to initialize. Then retry as indicated
on the error dialog box.
Other errors occur if the PV array voltage is too high or if it is zero or negative.
Follow the IVPC directions given when the error occurs. Most errors occur
immediately after selecting “New Curve” from the “Curve” menu.
The most common problem results from a communication error. Incorrect COM
port settings in IVPC may cause this problem. The COM port settings must
match the actual COM port on the computer. Note: If the COM port is a “virtual”
COM port, such as those created by USB to serial adapters or by the DS-1000
USB drivers, it is possible that this COM port number has been inadvertently
changed.
Use the Windows device manager to confirm the current COM port setting of the
virtual COM port. The COM port number set for this virtual port must match the
COM port number set in IVPC.
Displaying I-V Curves
From the Data Grid, double click a curve to display it.
Use the “Multi-plot” feature, under the “View” menu, to display multiple curves on
one plot. Several options exist for displaying I-V curves. Refer to the IVPC Help
system for details.
