HP DWT Commands

To get help with a command, choose the appropriate menu.

File Menu Commands

New

Open...

Save

Save As...

Exit

Edit Menu Commands

Select

Cut

Copy

Paste

Create Menu Commands

Numeric Display

Continuous

Discrete

String Input

Toggle Button

Push Button

Panel

XY Display

Other Menu Commands

Learning Mode

Custom Edit

Couplings

Status

Delete Panel

Delete XY

Auto Update

State Recall


File Menu Commands

These file commands let you open and save files, and exit the program.  They are active when using Expert mode.  Use the scroll bar to see more commands.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode

New

Clears the current ID panel, renaming the instrument to the default HPDMM.  When you choose New, HP DWT lets you save changes to the current file if you have made changes.

Related Topics

Starting a New ID

Open...

Lets you open an existing ID file.  When you choose Open, HP DWT lets you save changes to the current ID.

Related Topics

Opening an Existing ID

Save

Saves changes to the current ID file.  When you choose Save, the current ID remains so you can continue working on it.

Related Topics

Saving an ID

Save As...

Saves a new or existing ID.  You can name a new ID file, or save an existing file under a new name, leaving the original unchanged.

Related Topics

Saving an ID

Exit

Closes the current ID, and exits HP DWT.  If current changes are unsaved, HP DWT lets you save them before exiting.

Related Topics

Exiting HP DWT

Compiling Your ID


Edit Menu Commands

These commands let you remove and rearrange controls to modify the ID.  You need to select controls first before editing them.  Use the scroll bar to see more commands.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Select

Lets you select a panel control for a Cut or Copy.  You can also select a control by clicking on it using the right mouse button.

Related Topics

Copying a Control

Moving a Control

Removing a Control

Selecting a Control

Cut

Deletes a selected control from the panel.  Also removes the code defining the control from the ID and copies it to a buffer.  To move the cut control to another panel location, use Paste.

Related Topics

Moving a Control

Removing a Control

Selecting a Control

Copy

Copies the code that defines the selected panel control to a buffer leaving the original intact.  To copy the control to another panel location, use Paste.

Related Topics

Copying a Control

Selecting a Control

Paste

Places the buffer contents from a Cut or Copy to a location you select on the panel.  Select a new location before choosing Paste.  Paste places the control in an empty location, or inserts the control above a selected control.

Related Topics

Copying a Control

Moving a Control

Selecting a Control


Create Menu Commands

These commands present dialog boxes that let you add ID buttons, controls, and displays to the panel.  They are active when using Expert mode.  Use the scroll bar to see more commands.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode

Numeric Display

Presents the Numeric Display dialog box, which lets you create a numeric display.

Related Topics

Creating Numeric Displays

Continuous

Presents the Continuous dialog box, which lets you create a continuous control.

Related Topics

Creating Continuous Controls

Discrete

Presents the Discrete dialog box, which lets you create a discrete control.

Related Topics

Creating Discrete Controls

String Input

Presents the String Input dialog box, which lets you create a string input control.

Related Topics

Creating String Input Controls

Toggle Button

Presents the Toggle Button dialog box, which lets you create a toggle button.

Related Topics

Creating Toggle Buttons

Push Button

Presents the Push Button dialog box, which lets you create a push button.

Related Topics

Creating Push Buttons

Panel

Presents the Panel dialog box, which lets you create a subpanel.

Related Topics

Inserting a New Panel

XY Display

Presents the Create XY Display dialog box, which lets you create an X-Y display.

Related Topics

Creating X-Y Displays


Other Menu Commands

This menu lets you choose the operating mode.  After choosing Expert mode, the remaining commands become active, letting you edit the panel and specify relationships between controls.  Use the scroll bar to see more commands.

Learning Mode

Lets you change work modes.  A check mark in front puts HP DWT in Learning mode.  Learning mode is for novices that may need more coaching to complete an ID.  HP DWT is in Expert mode when there is no check mark.  Expert mode activates the File, Create, and Other menu commands.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode

Custom Edit

Presents a dialog box letting you directly edit the text of the code generated for a control.  Select a control before using this command.

NOTE

Editing ID code is complicated.  Only advanced ID programmers, familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language, should do this.  For ID language documentation, order the HP Instrument Driver Language Reference.  For ordering instructions, see the Related Topics below.

Related Topics

Editing ID Code

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

Couplings

Presents the Couplings dialog box, which lets you identify the controls that interact with each other.

Related Topics

Specifying Couplings

Status

Presents the Status Panel dialog box, which lets you complete a status panel for the ID.

Related Topics

Completing the Status Panel

Delete Panel

Lets you delete the current subpanel from the ID.  You can only delete panels that you added previously.  You cannot delete the Main, Status, or About  panels.

Related Topics

Deleting a Panel

Delete XY

Lets you delete the X-Y display that you added previously.

Related Topics

Deleting an X-Y Display

Auto Update

Presents a dialog box that lets you choose one control in the ID to support HP ITG's Automatic Update feature.  Typically, this is a display.  HP VEE does not support Auto Update.

Related Topics

Supporting Auto Update

State Recall

Presents a dialog box that lets you include support in your ID for State Recall.

Related Topics

Supporting State Recall


Auto Update Dialog Box

Auto Update in HP ITG lets an ID user continuously update an ID's control and display values.  The ID user can use this feature only if the ID supports it.  HP DWT lets you include support by providing this dialog box.  It displays only the controls and displays on the panel that can be queried.  However, you can select only one name from the list.  Typically, you should select the panel's display for Auto Update.  HP VEE does not support Auto Update.

To select display for Auto Update:

1  Be sure the display name appears in the list box.

2  Click on the display's name.

3  Click on OK.


Continuous Dialog Box

A continuous control provides a range of values for an instrument feature.  For example, a function generator ID includes continuous controls to adjust frequency and amplitude.

The default entries for this dialog box let you create a frequency control for a function generator.  You can accept the default entries or modify them to create a different continuous control.

To specify the control name and allowed values:

1  Edit the control's name (if it needs changing) in the text box by Continuous Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

3  Enter the lowest allowed value in the text box by Minimum Value.

4  Enter the highest allowed value in the text box by Maximum Value.

5  Enter a default value in the text box by Initial Value.

To specify the command string prefix and units:

1  Enter the command string prefix in the text box under Command str header.

2  Enter the command string units in the text box under Command str trailer.

To specify the query command:

1  Enter the query command in the text box under Command string header.

2  Click on the Query after Set option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

3  Click on the Trigger option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

To set the display attributes and resolution:

1  Click on More to access the Extended Continuous dialog box.

2  Click on the Engineering suffix option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

3  Click on the Linear or Logarithmic option to set the resolution.

4  For Linear resolution, enter the resolution in the text box you want available to the ID user.

5  For Logarithmic resolution, click on one of the sequence options.

6  Click on OK, then on OK in the main dialog box to accept your entries.


Couplings Dialog Box

Coupled controls are those that interact in the instrument.  For example, in a function generator, the frequency might interact with the function.  So, when the function changes, the frequency may change to an allowed value.  The instrument may contain several coupling combinations.  This dialog box lists the panel features for which you can identify couplings.

In our function generator example, we would click on function in the left box and frequency in the right box.  That is because when we change function, the instrument may have to change frequency (it may support sine waves up to 20MHz, but square only to 10MHz, for instance).  Setting up this coupling will tell the driver to query the instrument for a new frequency each time function is changed.  It is crucial for state recall that all couplings are given.  If you have too many couplings (saying that frequency and function are coupled when in fact the instrument will not change frequency based on function) then that will slow down the driver, but it will still work.

NOTE

Follow the directions above each list in the dialog box so you will select controls in the right order.

To associate coupled controls:

1  Select a control name in the left-hand list box.

2  Select one or more control names in the right-hand list box that may change if the first control changes.

3  Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each set of coupled controls.

4  Click on OK to accept your selections.

Related Topics

   Supporting State Recall


Create Controls/Panels Dialog Box

This dialog box only appears in Learning mode.  Use it to tell HP DWT if you want to create more controls or panels.

Adding controls lets you provide the ID user a way to adjust other instrument features.  As you add more controls, you may need to add more panels to hold them, or organize them in a logical manner.  Each time you add a control or panel, this dialog box reappears until you choose not to add any more.

To indicate your choice of action:

1  Click on the option representing the action you want.

2  Click on OK.


Create Dialog Box

This dialog box only appears in Learning mode after you choose to create more controls or panels.  Use it to tell HP DWT the specific control or panel you want to create.  The list includes suggestions about what you might want to provide on your ID panel.

To indicate your choice of control or panel:

1  Click on the option you choose.

2  Click on OK.


Custom Edit Dialog Box

You can directly edit the ID code that HP DWT generates for each control.  Editing ID code is complicated.  Only advanced ID programmers, familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language, should do this.

CAUTION

Clicking on OK in the Custom Edit dialog box prevents you from using the control's dialog box for editing that control again.  Click on Cancel to exit from Custom Edit.  You can delete the control and recreate it with the dialog box if Custom Edit is not useful.

The two large scrollable text boxes contain the code that describes the control you selected.  The left text box contains the component section.  The right text box contains the panel section.

To edit the code:

1  Edit the text using the same techniques for other Windows text boxes.  These changes will not appear on the HP DWT panel.  They will appear in the compiled ID.

2  If you change the control name in the panel section, use the text box by Name to show the change on the HP DWT panel.

3  Click on OK to enter your changes.

4  To edit the control again, click on it with the left mouse button.

Related Topic

   Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference


Discrete Dialog Box

A discrete control provides several individual values for an instrument feature.  For example, you can use this control to let an ID user select sine, square, or triangle wave output on a function generator.

The default entries for this dialog box let you create a function selector for a voltmeter.  You can accept the default entries or modify them to create a different discrete control.  The output and query strings should be listed in the instrument's programming manual.

To specify the control name and options:

1  Edit the control's name (if it needs changing) in the text box by Discrete Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

The following procedures tell how to edit the list box entries under Label, Output String, and Query Response.  Use the four dialog box commands to the right.  These include Set Initial, Add, Change, and Delete.  You can use them in any order you need.

To add new values:

1  Select a value in the list box.  New values are added above the highlighted line.  A blank line exists at the bottom of the list.

2  Click on Add.

3  Enter the required strings, then click on OK.

To change existing values:

1  Select the existing value you want to change, then click on Change.

2  Revise the strings, then click on OK.

OR

1  Double-click on the existing value.

2  Revise the strings, then click on OK.

To delete a value:

1  Select an existing value you want to delete.

2  Click on Delete, which deletes the value immediately.

To set initial value:

1  Select the value you want the panel to display first.

2  Click on Set Initial.  An asterisk will appear beside the value.

To specify the query string:

1  Click on the text box beside Query String.

2  Enter the string needed to query the feature.

3  Click on OK to accept all of your entries.


Function Selector Dialog Box

This dialog box only appears in Learning mode.  Use it to tell HP DWT if you want to create a function selector.  For example, a function selector on a voltmeter panel would let an ID user select between the functions DC Voltage, AC Voltage, or Ohms.

To indicate your choice of action:

1  Click on the option representing the action you want.

2  Click on OK.


Instrument Dialog Box

Identify the instrument model number and name.  The model number will appear in the panel title bar, and is used as the default ID file name.

To specify the model and name:

1  Edit the instrument's model number in the text box under Model Number of Instrument.

2  Edit the instrument's name in the text box under Name of Instrument.

3  Click on OK to accept your entries.


New Panel Dialog Box

Identify a new subpanel for the ID by editing the string in the text box.  Panel names are limited to 25 characters.  Then click on OK to create the new panel.  HP DWT places it after the current panel.


(Request) Numeric Display Dialog Box

This dialog box only appears in Learning mode.  Use it to tell HP DWT if you want to create a numeric display.  Instruments that analyze inputs such as multimeters, counters, and power meters use such displays.

To indicate your choice of action:

1  Click on the option representing the action you want.

2  Click on OK.


Numeric Display Dialog Box

A numeric display provides a way for the instrument to display measurement data.  Instruments that analyze inputs such as multimeters, counters, and power meters use such displays.

The default entries for this dialog box let you create a display for a voltmeter.  You can accept the default entries or modify them to create a display for other instruments.

To specify the display name and modes:

1  Edit the display name in the text box by Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

To specify the query command:

1  Enter the instrument's query command in the text box under Command string header.

2  Click on the Trigger option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

To set the display attributes:

1  Click on the Large display option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

2  Click on the Engineering suffix option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

3  Click on OK to accept your entries.


Panel Dialog Box

You can add more panels to the ID as existing panels fill up or to organize controls in logical groups.  You can also rename panels you have already added.  Use this dialog box to add a new panel after the current panel, or rename this panel.

To add or rename a panel:

1  Enter a name in the text box beside Panel Name.

2  Click on OK to accept your entry.


Push Button Dialog Box

A push button initiates an immediate action when pushed.  For example, such buttons are used for resets and calibrations.

The default entries for this dialog box let you create a calibration button for a voltmeter.  You can accept the default entries or modify them to create a different push button.

To specify the button name and modes:

1  Edit the button name in the text box by Button Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

To send bus messages:

1  Click on the Send device clear option to toggle the setting.  An X in a box enables the option.

2  Click on the Send trigger option to toggle the setting.  An X in a box enables the option.

To specify the command string:

1  Enter the command in the text box by Command String for the instrument feature the button will control.

2  Click on OK to accept your entries.


Reset String Command Dialog Box

The reset button lets the ID user put the instrument into a reset or preset condition.  This is usually similar to its power-on condition.

NOTE

You should always provide a reset button in an ID.

The default entries specify a reset command string, and that the driver should send a Selected Device Clear (SDC) command to the instrument at the start of the reset cycle.  You can accept the default entries or modify them for your instrument.

To change the commands:

1  Click on the Send Device Clear option to toggle the setting.  An X in the box enables the option.

2  Edit the command string in the text box to enter the correct command for your instrument.  A string is not always needed.

3  Click on OK to accept your entries.


State Recall Dialog Box

State Recall is a driver feature that lets the ID user recall predefined instrument states.

To support this feature, you must specify it in the ID using this dialog box.  When you include it, and the ID user recalls a state, the driver programs the ID and instrument values for each control in the order you select in this dialog box.

NOTE

State Recall is an advanced feature.  Only advanced ID programmers familiar with the HP Instrument Driver Language should try including this.  To order ID language documentation, see below.

To specify state recall, arrange the existing controls:

1  Click on the control names in the left-hand list box in the order commands should be sent.  The names appear in the right-hand list box in the order you select them.

NOTE

Select Reset first so values change from a known reset state.  This makes state recall work easier and prevents incorrect setups.

2  To change the order in the right-hand list box, click on Undo to erase the last name, or click on Clear to erase them all.

3  Click on OK to accept your list.

Related Topics

   Supporting State Recall

   Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference


Status/Couplings Dialog Box

This dialog box only appears in Learning mode.  Use it to tell HP DWT you want to complete the Status panel, specify couplings, include Auto Update, or end the session.

To indicate your choice of action:

1  Click on the option representing the action you want.

2  Click on OK.


Status Panel Dialog Box

An ID status panel provides instrument status information to the ID user.  This dialog box is split into two parts and lists several status options.  To access the second part, the Extended Status Panel dialog box, click on More.  To return to the main part, click on OK.

To include a status option on the panel:

1  Click on any of the status option names to toggle the settings.  An X in a box includes the option on the panel.

2  Some options require a command string or query string.  Enter strings in the text boxes under the related names.  Find the correct strings in the instrument's programming manual.

3  Click on OK in the main dialog box to accept your selections.


String Input Dialog Box

A string input control provides a field on the panel in which the ID user can enter text.  This is useful for instruments that can accept string inputs over the bus, or to display messages on the ID panel.

The default entries let you create a display area on the panel called String containing the initial value of BUSY.  The maximum number of characters allowed is 256.  DISP is the command required by the instrument to send the string on the bus.  The driver sends these entries in the following order:  header-value-trailer.

You can accept the default entries or modify them for your needs.

To enter the string specifications:

1  Edit the control's name in the text box by Input Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

3  Edit the Initial Value which appears in the display area.

4  Edit the Max Chars allowed in the display area.

To specify the instrument's bus command:

1  Click on the text box under Command header and Command trailer, as needed by the instrument to send the string over the bus.

2  Enter the command header and trailer specified in the instrument's programming guide.

3  Click on OK to accept your entries.


Toggle Button Dialog Box

A toggle button sets an instrument feature to one of two conditions.  Such buttons are used to turn filters on or off, change modulation between AM and FM, or switch amplitude range between automatic and manual.

The default entries for this dialog box let you create an on/off button for a voltmeter filter.  You can accept the default entries or modify them to create a different toggle button.

To specify the button name and modes:

1  Edit the button name in the text box by Toggle Name.

2  Click on the Log Hpt_set/get and Error check options to toggle the settings.  An X in a box enables the option.

To specify the button labels and commands:

1  Edit the button label in the text box by Title for First Setting and Second Setting.

2  For each setting, enter the command string in the text box under Command String.  The commands should be listed in the instrument's programming manual.

Setting the Initial Value:

*  Click on the option with the phrase "Initial value is Second Setting" to set the reset condition for the button.  A blank box uses the First Setting entries during reset.  An X in the box uses the Second Setting entries during reset.

NOTE

If an instrument reset uses values entered for Second Setting, then click on the check box by Initial value is Second Setting.


Create XY Display Dialog Box

An X-Y display provides a way for the instrument to display a waveform or spectrum.  Instruments that analyze inputs such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers use such displays.  The default entries for this dialog box let you create a simple display for an oscilloscope, or a spectrum analyzer.

NOTE

Creating an X-Y display is complicated even when using HP DWT.  Only advanced ID programmers familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language should do this.  To order ID language documentation, see below.

In the panel, each trace you want to turn on and off requires its own toggle button.  Be sure you have created a toggle button for each trace you want to control before creating this display.

To create the X-Y display:

1  Click on the option that defines the number of traces the ID will use:  1, 2, 3, or 4.

2  Click on the button beside Current Trace until the correct trace number label appears (Trace 1 through Trace 4).

3  Click on the down-arrow in the list box by On/Off Toggle.  The list of names that appear are the trace-control toggle buttons.  Each trace requires its own toggle button.

4  Select the name corresponding to the label by Current Trace.

5  Edit the code in the text box for the current trace.  Use the information following step 6 and from the ID language reference to help you.

6  Repeat steps 2-5 for each trace.  To copy code for each trace, select the code to copy, click on Copy; then after changing Current Trace, click on the location to insert text and click on Paste.

The driver language includes a feature that lets you specify certain attributes in an ID for an X-Y component.  Two new data types, ITRACE and RTRACE, contain these attributes.  These data types are identical to IARRAY and RARRAY, but include several new associated fields.  The following example declares the component, then the data type followed by the new fields:

COMPONENT TRA_DATA;

TYPE RTRACE <dimension>

TRACETYPE

POINTS

XMIN

XINCR

XLOG

XUNIT

YUNIT

TYPE is required.  The remaining fields are optional, and use default values if omitted.  If included, the fields must appear in the order shown.  Here are the field descriptions with default values:

TRACETYPE specifies the type of trace.  Legal values are:

*  WAVEFORM - Time domain waveform (default)

*  MSPECTRUM - Magnitude vs Frequency Spectrum

*  PSPECTRUM - Phase vs Frequency Spectrum

*  MODULATION - Frequency vs Time waveform

*  SPECTRUM - Complex Real-Imaginary vs Frequency Spectrum

NOTE

TRACETYPE can be specified as a component.  Specify the component TYPE as DISCRETE with the following six VALUES:

DUMMY,MSPECTRUM,PSPECTRUM,WAVEFORM,MODULATION,SPECTRUM;

POINTS specifies the number of points currently used by the trace.  Points can contain up to three values for multiple dimension traces.  The total size specified in POINTS cannot exceed the dimensioned size of the trace. The default is <dimensioned size>,1,1.

XMIN specifies the value of the first point on the X-axis. The default value is 0.

XINCR specifies the spacing of points on the X-axis.  For a linear spacing, XINCR specifies the distance between adjacent points.  For a logarithmic trace, it specifies the multiplier between points.  The default value is 1.

XLOG specifies whether the trace is linear or logarithmic in the X-axis. A value of 0 specifies a linear spacing; a value of 1 specifies logarithmic spacing.  The default value is 0.

XUNIT specifies the unit of spacing on the X-axis.  This is a string value and is only used by HP ITG and HP VEE II for labeling graphs.  The default value is the null string.

YUNIT specifies the unit of spacing on the Y-axis.  This is a string value and is only used by HP ITG II for labeling graphs.  The default value is the null string.

Related Topics

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference


HP DWT Glossary

The following terms are defined in this glossary.  Some terms define general HP DWT features.  Others define specific labels found in the dialog boxes used to create various controls and displays.  Scroll through the list for the term you want.

About panel

Add

Auto Update

button

Button Name

Change

Clear

command string

command string header

command string trailer

continuous control

Continuous Name

control

couplings

Current Trace

Delete

discrete control

Discrete Name

display

Engineering suffix

Error check

Expert mode

First Setting

function selector

hpt_get

hpt_set

ID

Initial Value

Input Name

instrument driver

Label

Large display

Learning mode

Linear

Logarithmic

Log Hpt_set/get

Main panel

Max Chars

Maximum Value

Minimum Value

Model Number of Instrument

Name

Name of Instrument

numeric display

On/Off Toggle

Output string

panel

panel button

Panel Name

push button

Query after Set

Query Response

query string

reset button

Resolution

Second Setting

Selected Device Clear

Send Device Clear

Set Initial

SRQ

state

State Recall

Status panel

string input control

subpanel

Title

toggle button

Toggle Name

Trace Type

Trigger

Undo

values

X-Y display


About panel

A panel that contains the driver's instrument model number, name, and version.  The model number and name are read from the Instrument dialog box entries.  The version is the date and time read from the computer.   The current date and time are written on the panel when starting a new driver or saving changes to an old one.  This panel cannot be deleted.


Add

A command button in the Discrete dialog box that lets you add a new value for a discrete control.  The new value is added above the highlighted item.  To add to the bottom of the list, highlight the blank area just below the list.


Auto Update

An HP ITG feature that lets an ID user continuously update a display.  The ID must support the feature before the ID user can use it.  Use the Auto Update dialog box to add this support.  Auto Update is not supported in HP VEE.


button

Appears on the ID panel when you create a control.  Buttons and their labels create a user interface for the ID user.


Button Name

A text box label in the Push Button dialog box.  Lets you specify this control's name which appears on the ID panel beside its button.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit in the available area.


Change

A command button in the Discrete dialog box that lets you change the specifications for a discrete control's value.


Clear

A command button in the State Recall dialog box.  Lets you clear all current names from the recall sequence list.


command string

Specifies the command the driver sends to the instrument when the ID user changes a setting.  The instrument's programming manual should define the required commands.  Instrument commands may include a header and trailer.  The driver sends command strings that contain headers and trailers in the following order:  header-value-trailer.


command string header

The initial segment of a command string which is used to control an instrument.  The instrument's programming manual should define the required header.  The header section usually defines the instrument function, such as FR for frequency or AP for amplitude.  The header is followed by a numeric value and a trailer in the command string.


command string trailer

The final segment of a command string which is used to control an instrument.  The instrument's programming manual should define the required trailer.  The trailer section usually defines the units for the command string, such as VO for Volts or HZ for Hertz.  The trailer follows the numeric value and header in the command string.


continuous control

Lets the ID user enter a numeric value within a specified range.  It is used to control features such as amplitude and frequency for a signal generator.  Use the Continuous dialog box to create this control.


Continuous Name

A text box label in the Continuous dialog box.  Lets you specify this control's name using alphanumeric characters.  Name appears on the ID panel beside its button.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit in the available area.


control

An HP DWT feature you can add to an ID that lets you change various instrument settings.  Controls you can define in HP DWT include continuous, discrete, string input, toggle button, push button, numeric display, and XY display.


couplings

Instruments with features that interact are coupled.  You should specify the couplings in the ID.  For example, if changing a signal generator's function selector may change the frequency setting, use the Couplings dialog box to identify that relationship in the ID.


Current Trace

A command button label in the Create XY Display dialog box.  Click on the button to scroll through each of the four trace names.  For each trace name, the current code and specifications appear in the text and list boxes in the dialog box.


Delete

A command button in the Discrete dialog box that lets you delete a value listed for a discrete control.  The highlighted value in the list box is deleted.


discrete control

Lets the ID user select from a list of allowable values.  It is used to control features such as function and range for a voltmeter.  Use the Discrete dialog box to create this control.


Discrete Name

A text box label in the Discrete dialog box.  Lets you specify this control's name using alphanumeric characters.  Name appears on the ID panel beside its button.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit in the available area.


display

An area on an ID panel that presents measurement data.  Use the Numeric Display dialog box to create displays for voltmeter or frequency counter measurement results.  Use the Create XY Display dialog box to create displays for oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, and network analyzer traces.


Engineering suffix

An option in the Numeric Display and Continuous dialog boxes.  This option lets you specify the value's numeric format by adding engineering suffixes such as milli, micro, or Mega.


Error check

An option in the Numeric Display, Continuous, Discrete, String Input, Toggle Button, and Push Button dialog boxes.  Enabling this option includes support for HP ITG's and HP VEE's Error Checking mode in the ID.  Error Checking checks for instrument errors when a control is set or a measurement is displayed on the ID panel.

NOTE

The Error check option must be enabled for each control and display separately.  You must also complete the Error check box and query string in the Status Panel dialog box.


Expert mode

The HP DWT operating mode that lets you build and edit the ID in any convenient order.  Access each of the dialog boxes through the menu bar to build and enhance the ID.  Edit the current panel by clicking on existing controls and displays.  To enable Expert mode, click on Other, then click on Learning Mode to remove the check mark.  After you become familiar with HP DWT, you may want to start in expert mode rather than learning mode.  To do this, invoke HP DWT as "HPDWT -e".  You may edit the command line by clicking on the HP DWT icon in the Windows Program Manager and selecting File/Properties... from the menu.


First Setting

An area in the Toggle Button dialog box that lets you specify the button's condition when the ID user adds the ID to the work area.  The first setting is the initial setting by default.  When the ID user picks this setting, the title appears on the button, and the driver sends the command string to the instrument.


function selector

A control that lets the ID user select an instrument's operating mode.  HP DWT uses the Discrete dialog box to create the control.  HP DWT asks if you want to create a function selector specifically since most IDs must include that type of control to drive an instrument.


hpt_get

An HP ITG function used to read measurement data from an instrument.  HP ITG calls this function when an ID user clicks on an ID's display.  (Since HP VEE is not a code generator, it does not support this feature.)


hpt_set

An HP ITG function used to change an instrument setting.  HP ITG calls this function when an ID user changes an ID control's setting.  (Since HP VEE is not a code generator, it does not support this feature.)


ID

Abbreviation for instrument driver.


Initial Value

A text box label in the Continuous and String Input dialog boxes.  Lets you specify the value that first appears on the ID panel buttons for these controls.

Continuous initial values should be set at or near the instrument's power-up values.

String Input initial values may contain up to 256 characters or up to the limit you set for Max Chars.

This term also appears on the Toggle Button dialog box as an option that lets you pick the First Setting value or Second Setting value as the initial value.


Input Name

A text box label in the String Input dialog box.  Lets you specify this control's name using alphanumeric characters.  Name appears on the ID panel beside the string input's display area.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit the available area.


instrument driver

A file created by HP DWT that specifies how an instrument's panel appears in HP ITG and HP VEE.  Contains the command strings HP ITG and HP VEE uses to control an instrument.  An HP DWT driver must be compiled before HP ITG and HP VEE can use it.  An instrument driver is also known as an ID.


Label

Specifies the value names available for a control created in the Discrete dialog box.  Labels appear on the control button when selected by the ID user.  Labels should match the names used by the instrument.


Large display

An option in the Numeric Display dialog box.  Enabling this option causes a large sized display area to appear on the ID panel.  If disabled, a smaller display appears.


Learning mode

The HP DWT operating mode that guides you through ID development.  As you answer questions and specify the various controls and display, HP DWT shows the effects of your entries on the panel.

Learning mode is the default mode when you start HP DWT.  You cannot edit the ID in Learning mode; only in Expert mode.  To switch from Learning mode to Expert mode, click on Other, then click on Learning Mode to remove the check mark.


Linear

An option in the Extended Continuous dialog box.  Enabling this option for resolution lets the ID user scroll linearly through the range of allowable values.  The adjoining text box lets you define the resolution available to the ID user.


Logarithmic

An option in the Extended Continuous dialog box.  Enabling this option for resolution lets the ID user scroll logarithmically through the range of allowable values.  A secondary option lets you select the logarithmic resolution of 1-10, 1-3, or 1-2-5.


Log Hpt_set/get

An option in the Numeric Display, Continuous, Discrete, String Input, Toggle Button, and Push Button dialog boxes.  Enabling this option includes support in the ID for HP ITG's code logging mode.  This mode generates calls to hpt_set and hpt_get as the ID panel settings are changed in the HP ITG development environment.  (Since HP VEE is not a code generator, it does not support this feature.)

NOTE

The Log Hpt_set/get option must be enabled for each control and display separately.


Main panel

The first panel appearing when HP DWT starts or when you begin a new panel.  You should put the most common instrument controls on this panel.  This panel cannot be deleted.


Max Chars

A text box label in the String Input dialog box.  Lets you enter the maximum number of characters the ID user can enter for the string input control.  Allowable values are from 0 through 256.


Maximum Value

A text box label in the Continuous dialog box.  Lets you specify the upper limit for the valid range of values.  The entry should match the instrument's upper limit.


Minimum Value

A text box label in the Continuous dialog box.  Lets you specify the lower limit for the valid range of values.  The entry should match the instrument's lower limit.


Model Number of Instrument

A text box label in the Instrument dialog box.  Lets you enter the instrument's identifying model number.  You should enter the exact model number to avoid confusion about which instrument your ID controls.  This entry appears in the ID's About panel.


Name

A text box label in the Numeric Display dialog box.  Lets you specify this display's name.  Number of characters are limited to the text box's width.


Name of Instrument

A text box label in the Instrument dialog box.  Lets you enter a descriptive name for the instrument using alphanumeric characters.  You should enter a name that is commonly used for the instrument.  This entry appears in the ID's About panel.


Number of elements

A text box label in the Create XY Display dialog box.  Lets you specify the number of trace array elements to fill for a measurement for the current trace.  You can specify from 0 to 16384 elements.  The current value refers to the current trace displayed in the button labeled Current Trace.


numeric display

Lets the ID user read measurement data from the instrument for display on the ID panel.  It is used to display readings from instruments such as voltmeters and counters.  Use the Numeric Display dialog box to create this display.


On/Off Toggle

A label for a drop-down list box in the Create XY Display dialog box.  The list box lets you associate any previously created toggle buttons with a trace.  After making the association, you can use these toggles to turn each trace on and off.


Output string

A text box label in the Discrete dialog box.  Lets you enter the command string for each value listed for a discrete control.  The instrument programming manual defines the required commands.


panel

The area below the ID's title bar that contains the displays and controls you specify.  The default ID panels are Main, Status, and About.  You can add more panels as you use HP DWT.


panel button

Lets the ID user switch from one panel to another.  This default control contains the current panel's name.  In Expert mode, you can click on this button to switch from one panel to another.


Panel Name

A text box label in the Panel dialog box.  Lets you specify name for a new panel using alphanumeric characters.  Name appears in the Panel Button.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit inside the button's boundaries.


push button

Lets the ID user initiate an immediate action such as a reset.  Use the Push Button dialog box to create this control.


Query after Set

An option in the query section of the Continuous dialog box.  Choose this option to tell the driver to query the instrument after setting a value.  This is needed especially if the instrument changes the actual value the driver sends to it.

For example, if the ID user set frequency to 12.07 MHz, the instrument might round the value to 12.1 MHz.  The driver should query the instrument's value after setting it so the ID panel displays 12.1 MHz and not 12.07 MHz.

NOTE

HP ITG performs this query only in its development environment.


Query Response

A text box label in the Discrete dialog box.  Lets you enter the string the instrument returns when the driver queries the current setting for this discrete control.  The instrument programming manual defines the required commands.


query string

A text box label in the Discrete dialog box.  Lets you enter the query command the driver sends to the instrument when requesting the current setting for this discrete control.  The instrument programming manual defines the required command.


reset button

Lets the ID user set the ID controls and instrument back to initial values.  This default control always contains the name Reset.


Resolution

An area in the Continuous dialog box that lets you specify the resolution available to the ID user when selecting a value.  Resolution can be specified in linear or logarithmic sequences.


Second Setting

An area in the Toggle Button dialog box that lets you specify the button's alternate condition.  When the ID user picks this setting, the title appears on the button, and the driver sends the command string to the instrument.


Selected Device Clear (SDC)

A bus command that clears the instrument's interface command buffer and error register, and presets the instrument.


Send Device Clear

An option in the Reset String Command and Push Button dialog boxes.  If enabled, tells the driver to send a Selected Device Clear command to the instrument at the start of the reset cycle.


Set Initial

A command button in the Discrete dialog box.  Lets you pick the initial value to appear on the discrete button when the ID is loaded into the HP ITG or HP VEE workspace.  An asterisk marks the initial value in the dialog box.


SRQ

Abbreviation for Service Request.  Options in the Status Panel dialog box let you include SRQ query and masking support in the ID.


state

A state is the collection of values for each ID control used to set up an instrument.  For example, one state for a voltmeter might include the Function set to a value of ACV, and the Range set to 3V.  Another state might set Function and Range to DCV and 1V respectively.  If the ID user saved these two states in HP ITG, they could be recalled in HP ITG, moving the ID directly from one state to the other, if the ID supports State Recall.

In HP VEE, a state corresponds to one instrument panel.  When HP VEE executes that panel, it recalls that state, meaning that it sends commands to the instrument to cause the instrument to go to the state described by the panel.


State Recall

An HP ITG menu pick that lets the ID user recall predefined instrument states.  Use the State Recall dialog box to include this support in the ID.  This is an advanced feature, so only programmers experienced with the HP Instrument Driver language should include this.

State Recall is also used in HP VEE when the user writes a program that uses Instrument Panels.  When HP VEE executes that panel, it recalls the state, meaning that it sends commands to the instrument to cause the instrument to go to the state described by the panel.


Status panel

A panel that displays the instrument's current status to the ID user.  It contains labeled displays for each of the options enabled in the Status Panel dialog box.  This panel cannot be deleted.


string input control

Lets the ID user enter a string in a field on the ID panel.  The string can be written to instruments that can display strings.  Use the String Input dialog box to create this control.


subpanel

Any extra panel added to the ID using the Panel dialog box.


Title

A text box label in the Toggle Button dialog box.  Lets you specify the value that appears on the toggle button.


toggle button

Lets the ID user select one of two conditions for an instrument feature, such as on or off for a filter.  Use the Toggle Button dialog box to create this control.


Toggle Name

A text box label in the Toggle Button dialog box.  Lets you specify this control's name using alphanumeric characters.  Name appears on the ID panel beside its button.  Names must be unique.  Name length should be limited to fit in the available area.


Trace Type

A label for a drop-down list box in the Create XY Display dialog box.  The list box lets you specify the data type for the current trace.  Data types may be real or integer.  The current value refers to the trace name displayed beside the label Current Trace.


Trigger

An option in the Numeric Display, Continuous, and Push Button dialog boxes.  If enabled, tells the driver to send a Group Execute Trigger (GET) command.  For a numeric display and continuous control, the trigger is included with a query when requesting a reading.  For a push button, the trigger is sent before the command string.


Undo

A command button in the State Recall dialog box.  Lets you remove the last name from the recall sequence list.


values

The allowable settings for a control.  These should match the allowed settings for each of the instrument's features.  You should define values for these controls:

Continuous

Define maximum, minimum, and initial values.

Discrete

Define individual values.

String Input

Define the initial value to appear in the display.

Toggle Button

Define values for each of the two conditions.


X-Y display

Lets the ID user read waveform and spectrum data from the instrument for display on the ID panel.  It is used to display readings from instruments such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers.  Use the Create XY Display dialog box to create this display.


HP DWT Help Index

The Index lists the help topics for learning about the HP Driver Writer's Tool.  Use the scroll bar to see more entries.

Overview

Introducing the HP Driver Writer's Tool

Using the HP DWT Online Help

Tutorial:

1  Creating a Simple ID

2  Saving the ID

3  Compiling the ID

4  Using the ID

Procedures

Changing Specifications

Changing the Current Panel

Changing the Work Mode

Compiling Your ID

Completing the Status Panel

Copying a Control

Creating Continuous Controls

Creating Discrete Controls

Creating Numeric Displays

Creating Push Buttons

Creating String Input Controls

Creating Toggle Buttons

Creating X-Y Displays

Deleting an X-Y Display

Deleting a Panel

Editing ID Code

Errors from the ID Compiler

Exiting HP DWT

Inserting a New Panel

Moving a Control

Opening an Existing ID

Removing a Control

Renaming a Panel

Saving an ID

Selecting a Control

Specifying Couplings

Specifying the Reset Button

Starting a New ID

Supporting Auto Update

Supporting State Recall

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode

Commands

File Menu Commands

Edit Menu Commands

Create Menu Commands

Other Menu Commands

Glossary

HP DWT Glossary


Overview

The following topics will help you get started with the HP Driver Writer's Tool:

Introducing the HP Driver Writer's Tool

Using the HP DWT Online Help

Tutorial:

1  Creating a Simple ID

2  Saving the ID

3  Compiling the ID

4  Using the ID


Introducing the HP Driver Writer's Tool

The HP Driver Writer's Tool (HP DWT) is a programming tool designed to help you develop simple instrument drivers (IDs) quickly.  HP DWT uses the same Windows features as all other Windows applications.  To learn how to use these features, see the Windows documentation.

The following statements explain HP DWT's benefits:

*  IDs work with the HP Interactive Test Generator (HP ITG II) or HP Visual Engineering Environment (HP VEE).

*  Supports any programmable instrument equipped with the IEEE-488 interface standard (or RS-232 with HP VEE).

*  Lets you create specific IDs for special applications.

*  Saves time, letting you create a simple ID in about one day.

*  Provides ASCII source file, letting you edit ID code created with HP DWT to add more functionality.

NOTE

Only ID programmers with experience using the HP Instrument Driver language should edit ID code created with HP DWT.  For documentation about the ID language, order the manual, HP Instrument Driver Language Reference.  See the Related Topics below for ordering information.

NOTE

You cannot use HP DWT to modify IDs supplied by Hewlett-Packard.

Related Topics

Creating a Simple ID

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

Using the HP DWT Online Help


Using the HP DWT Online Help

HP DWT includes an online Help application that makes it easy for you to find information quickly and easily.  Therefore, HP DWT does not include a printed manual.  Use Help as you learn, and as a reference.  Simply click on the Help command in HP DWT's menu bar to access the various topics.

HP DWT Help is organized much like the Help included with the applications and accessories shipped with Windows.  Read the section in the Windows documentation for information about using the online Help system.

HP DWT Help Organization

HP DWT Help is organized to give you efficient access to information.  This section describes HP DWT's Help organization, and the access to it.

Index

Lists all Help topics for HP DWT.  Use this as you would a manual's table of contents for access to all other topics.  Access the Index from the Help menu in HP DWT's menu bar.

Overview

Presents introductory and conceptual information about HP DWT.  Access the Overview from the Index or directly from the Help menu.

Commands

Briefly describes the commands available in the HP DWT menus.  Access this by highlighting a menu item, then pressing F1; from the Index; or the Help menu.

Procedures

Contains step-by-step instructions for creating IDs.  Most procedures apply to Expert mode.  Others apply to Learning mode.  Access this from the Index or the Help menu.

Dialog Box Summaries

Each dialog box includes Help explaining terms, and how to complete the box.  Access this by clicking on the Help button in each dialog box.

Glossary

Defines terms used in HP DWT that may be unfamiliar, and gives guidelines for information required in the dialog boxes.  Access definitions by clicking and holding on terms appearing with a dotted underline, or use the Help menu or Index.


Creating a Simple ID

The following series of topics guides you through the development of a simple ID.  These topics are not intended to create a useful ID.  Its purpose is to introduce you to HP DWT.

The simplest way to create an ID using HP DWT is to use the default operating mode called Learning mode.  In this mode, HP DWT guides you through ID development by asking questions in dialog boxes that appear on the right side of the HP DWT window.

Go ahead and use HP DWT with an imaginary instrument in mind to acquaint you with creating an ID.  Use the left mouse button and your keyboard to change dialog box entries you prefer.  The default entries in the dialog boxes are only examples.   When you complete a dialog box, click on OK to continue.

The predefined sequence in Learning mode helps you include the following features common in most IDs:

Reset button

Numeric display

Discrete controls

Continuous controls

String Input controls

Toggle buttons

Push buttons

Subpanels

Status panel

Couplings

Auto Update

As you complete dialog boxes, features appear on the ID panel at the left side of the HP DWT window.  When you finish answering the questions, HP DWT saves your ID to a file.

Next Topic

Saving the ID

NOTE

When you are familiar with HP DWT's operation, you may want to start using Expert mode for direct access to specific dialog boxes.  Expert mode also provides access to other features not available in Learning mode.


Saving the ID

When you finish creating an ID in Learning mode, HP DWT asks to save it.  To save the ID, click on Yes.  Another dialog box appears that lets you accept or change the current path and file name.  You should save IDs in the HPITG2\DRIVERS or \VEE_USER directory so all drivers are in the same location.  Click on Save when you are ready.

HP DWT creates two files in these formats:

1  YOURFILE.DWT (HP DWT internal), readable only by HP DWT.

2  YOURFILE.ID (ASCII), ready to compile.

You can edit the ASCII file, but the changes cannot be read by HP DWT.  To make changes to the ID, you should do so in HP DWT.  Both files are updated when you resave existing IDs.

You are ready to compile the ID.

Next Topic

Compiling the ID


Compiling the ID

Before you can use your ID, you need to compile it.  HP DWT helps automate this process each time you choose File/Save As... from the HP DWT menu.  If you are using the DWT with HP ITG running, then DWT will ask if you want to load the ID into HP ITG.  If you are using the DWT with HP VEE, then DWT will ask if you want to compile the ID.  If you click on Yes, the ID is compiled, and if ITG is running, it will be loaded into ITG.  For HP VEE, load the ID using IO/Instruments... on the menu.

If you want to compile the ID yourself outside of HP DWT, double click on the HP ID Compiler icon in the program group of HP ITG or HP VEE.  Then type in the full pathname of the ID file, like C:/VEE_USER/HPDMM.ID.  The HP ID Compiler will then compile the ID, creating file HPDMM.CID in the drivers directory for HP ITG or HP VEE.

Next Topic

Using the ID


Using the ID

Once the ID appears in the work area of HP ITG or HP VEE, exercise its controls to change the settings.  This is a good opportunity to debug the ID, and verify that it operates the way you intended.

NOTE

ID panels should work as intended whether an instrument is connected or not.  If your ID is to control a real instrument, connect that instrument to the interface bus to debug the ID.

1  Click on the ID panel to make it active.

2  Click on Options in the menu bar, and turn on all appropriate options for the instrument panel.

3  Exercise each ID control.

4  Note problems that need changing.

5  If the ID requires modification, restart HP DWT.

6  Enter HP DWT's Expert mode and edit the ID.

The tutorial ends here.  Click on Index above to see more Help topics, or begin using HP DWT.


Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

There may be times when you need to edit the ID code directly as in the following conditions:

*  To use advanced HP DWT features.

*  To add functionality to an ID.

In either case, you need to be familiar with the ID language used by HP DWT.  To order the language reference, HP Instrument Driver Language Reference, call your local HP Sales Representative and ask for part number E2001-90004.  In the USA, you may call HP Direct at 1-800-227-8164.


HP DWT Procedures

These procedure topics give you instructions about using HP DWT features to create an ID.  In Learning mode, HP DWT leads you through most of these procedures automatically.  You may find these topics more helpful when you use Expert mode.  Use the scroll bar to see more topics.

Creating Buttons

Creating Push Buttons

Creating Toggle Buttons

Specifying the Reset Button

Creating Controls and Panels

Completing the Status Panel

Creating Continuous Controls

Creating Discrete Controls

Creating String Input Controls

Inserting a New Panel

Specifying Couplings

Supporting State Recall

Creating Displays

Creating Numeric Displays

Creating X-Y Displays

Supporting Auto Update

Editing the ID Panel

Changing Specifications

Changing the Current Panel

Copying a Control

Deleting an X-Y Display

Deleting a Panel

Editing ID Code

Moving a Control

Removing a Control

Renaming a Panel

Selecting a Control

Managing the ID File

Compiling Your ID

Errors from the ID Compiler

Exiting HP DWT

Opening an Existing ID

Saving an ID

Starting a New ID

Setting the Work Mode

Changing the Work Mode

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode


Changing Specifications

In Expert mode, you can change the specifications for each control, button, and display.  To change specifications, simply recall the dialog box for the target panel feature.  Each recalled dialog box contains the current specifications, letting you change them as needed.

To change specifications:

1  Change the work mode to Expert mode.

2  Click on the control, button, or display that you want to change.

3  Make the changes in the dialog box.

4  Click on OK.

Related Topics

Changing the Current Panel

Changing the Work Mode

Copying a Control


Changing the Current Panel

An ID contains at least three panels, which are also known as subpanels.  The default panels in HP DWT are Main, Status, and About.  In Expert mode, you can switch between these panels and ones you have added.

To change the current panel:

1  Change the work mode to Expert mode.

2  Click on the blue panel-name button (right-hand button directly under the ID title bar).

3  Highlight a panel name in the list box.

4  Click on OK.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Inserting a New Panel


Changing the Work Mode

You may want to change between Learning mode and Expert mode depending on your experience with HP DWT and the tasks you need to do.

NOTE

HP DWT is in Learning mode if a check mark appears beside the Learning Mode command.  HP DWT is in Expert mode if there is no check mark.

To change the work mode:

*  Click on Other, then on Learning Mode.

Related Topics

Working in Expert Mode

Working in Learning Mode


Compiling Your ID

NOTE

When saving your work in HP DWT using File/Save As..., you can choose to have your ID compiled automatically.  If you ever edit your ID outside of HP DWT you should use the following procedure to compile it.

Each time you save an ID, HP DWT writes two files.  The file names end with .DWT and .ID.  HP DWT uses the .DWT file (an internal format file).  You compile the .ID file for HP ITG or HP VEE.  The following procedure assumes all of your work is in a common HP ITG directory.

To compile your ID:

1  Save the ID.

2  Run the ID compiler by double clicking on the icon in the Test & Measurement group named "HP ITG ID Compiler".

3  In the resulting dialog box, enter the ID file name, then click on OK.

4  When done, load the compiled ID, named YOURFILE.CID, into HP ITG as you would any other instrument driver.

Related Topics

Errors from the ID Compiler

Exiting HP DWT

Saving an ID

Using the ID


Errors from the ID Compiler

Errors that occur when you compile your ID usually result when fields in dialog boxes used in HP DWT are left blank, or if you use ID language keywords as names for controls or panels.

If you need to rename controls used for Auto Update or for trace on/off toggle control in X-Y displays, you must also redefine your Auto Update settings, and the names used for the trace toggle controls in the X-Y display code.  This keeps names synchronized.  If you rename coupled controls, you do not need to redefine couplings.

Related Topics

Creating X-Y Displays

Supporting Auto Update


Completing the Status Panel

The Status panel provides instrument status information to the ID user.  You can change this panel's entries in Expert mode.

To complete the status panel:

1  Change the work mode to Expert mode.

2  Change the current ID panel to the Status panel (optional).

3  Access the Status Panel dialog box by clicking on Other, then on Status.  For more status options, click on More to access the Extended Status Panel dialog box.

4  Find the command string and query string in the instrument's programming manual for each option you want to turn on.

5  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

6  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing the Current Panel

Changing the Work Mode


Copying a Control

To copy a control:

1  Select the control you want to copy.

2  Click on Edit, then on Copy.

3  Select another location on the ID panel to place the copy.  The location may be empty or contain another control.  If you select another control's location, the copied control will be inserted above it.

4  Click on Edit, then on Paste.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Changing the Current Panel

Selecting a Control


Creating Continuous Controls

A continuous control lets the ID user enter a numeric value within a specified range for an instrument feature.  For example, this type of control can set a function generator's amplitude or frequency.

To create a continuous control:

1  Find the command string in the instrument's programming manual that changes the instrument's setting to a new value.

2  Find the command string in the instrument's programming manual that queries the feature's current value.

3  Determine the minimum and maximum values the instrument allows for the feature.

4  Access the Continuous dialog box by clicking on Create, then on Continuous.

5  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

6  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings


Creating Discrete Controls

A discrete control lets the ID user select from a list of individual values when setting an instrument feature.  For example, this control can set a voltmeter's function selector.

To create a discrete control:

1  Find the command strings in the instrument's programming manual for each allowed value.

2  Find the response strings in the instrument's programming manual that the instrument returns when the feature's current value is queried.

3  Find the query string in the instrument's programming manual that queries the feature's current value.

4  Access the Discrete dialog box by clicking on Create, then on Discrete.

5  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

6  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings


Creating Numeric Displays

A numeric display in the ID displays an instrument's measurement data.  This type of display should be used for instruments such as voltmeters and counters.

To add a numeric display:

1  Access the Numeric Display dialog box by clicking on Create, then Numeric Display.

2  Find the command string in the instrument's programming manual that queries the instrument's display.

3  Complete the Numeric Display dialog box using Help for details.

4  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings

Supporting Auto Update


Creating Push Buttons

A push button lets the ID user execute an immediate action.  For example, this button can initiate a reset or calibration.

To create a push button:

1  Find the command string in the instrument's programming manual for the instrument feature.

2  Access the Push Button dialog box by clicking on Create, then on Push Button.

3  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

4  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings


Creating String Input Controls

A string input control lets the ID user enter text into a field on the ID panel.  Strings can then be sent to instruments that can display them, or be read from instruments into the ID panel's string input display.

To create a string input control:

1  Find the command string in the instrument's programming manual that sends the value.

2  Access the String Input dialog box by clicking on Create, then on String Input.

3  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

4  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings


Creating Toggle Buttons

A toggle button lets the ID user switch the settings for certain instrument features between two conditions.  For example, this type of button can turn a filter or trace on and off, or switch amplitude range between auto and manual.

To create a toggle button:

1  Find the command strings in the instrument's programming manual for each of the settings.

2  Access the Toggle Button dialog box by clicking on Create, then on Toggle Button.

3  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

4  Click on OK to accept your entries.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Specifying Couplings


Creating X-Y Displays

An X-Y display in the ID displays a waveform or spectrum.  This type of display should be used for instruments such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers.  When using Expert mode, you can use the Create XY Display dialog box to add an X-Y display.

NOTE

Creating an X-Y display is complicated even when using HP DWT.  Only advanced ID programmers familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language should do this.  For ID language documentation, order the manual, HP Instrument Driver Language Reference.  For ordering instructions, see the Related Topics below.

To create this display, you need to add a toggle button for each trace you want to control in the ID.  The X-Y display supports up to four traces.  After creating the trace controls, add the X-Y display.

To add trace controls:

1  Change the work mode to Expert mode.

2  Create any on/off toggle buttons needed in the ID panel to turn each trace on and off.  To access the Toggle Button dialog box, click on Create, then on Toggle Button.

3  Find the command strings in the instrument's programming manual that turn each trace on and off.

4  Complete the Toggle Button dialog box using Help for details.

5  Click on OK to accept your entries.

To add an X-Y display:

1  Access the Create XY Display dialog box by clicking on Create, then on XY Display.

2  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

3  Click on OK to accept the edited text.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Copying a Control

Creating Toggle Buttons

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

Specifying Couplings

Supporting Auto Update


Deleting an X-Y Display

In Expert mode, you can delete an X-Y display that you have added to your panel.

To delete an existing X-Y display:

*  Click on Other, then on Delete XY.


Deleting a Panel

When using Expert mode, you can delete a panel you have added whether or not it contains controls or displays.  The Main, Status, and About panels cannot be deleted.

To delete a panel:

1  Make the panel to be deleted, the current panel.

2  Click on Other, then on Delete Panel.

Related Topics

Changing the Current Panel


Editing ID Code

When using Expert mode, you can directly edit the code for each control and display instead of changing their specifications using dialog boxes.

NOTE

Editing ID code directly is complicated.  Only advanced ID programmers familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language should do this.  For ID language documentation, order the manual HP Instrument Driver Language Reference.  For ordering instructions, see the Related Topics below.

CAUTION

After editing code directly, you cannot use that control's dialog box for editing again.  To regain use of the dialog box, you must remove the control, then recreate it using the dialog box.

To edit code directly:

1  Select the control.

2  Access the Custom Edit dialog box by clicking on Other, then on Custom Edit.

3  Complete the dialog box, then click on OK.

Related Topics

Changing Specifications

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

Selecting a Control


Exiting HP DWT

When using Expert mode, you can use HP DWT's Exit command.

To exit HP DWT:

*  Click on File, then on Exit.  HP DWT asks you to save changes.

Related Topics

Opening an Existing ID

Saving an ID

Starting a New ID


Inserting a New Panel

When using Learning mode, HP DWT automatically creates a new panel after the current one if you try to add a control to a full panel.  However, you can create additional panels manually in Expert mode.

NOTE

New panels can only be inserted after the Main panel, not after the Status or About panels.

To insert a new panel:

1  Change to Expert mode.

2  Since HP DWT inserts new panels after the current one, change the current panel so they will appear in the order you prefer.

3  Access the Panel dialog box by clicking on Create, then on Panel.

4  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

5  Click on OK to accept your entry.

Related Topics

Changing the Current Panel

Changing the Work Mode

Deleting a Panel


Moving a Control

To move a control:

1  Select the control you want to move.

2  Click on Edit, then on Cut.

3  Select another location on the ID panel to place the control.  The location may be empty or contain another control.  If you select another control's location, the control you are moving will be inserted above it.

4  Click on Edit, then on Paste.

Related Topics

Selecting a Control


Opening an Existing ID

You can open an existing ID when using Expert mode.

To open an existing ID file:

1  Click on File, then on Open...

2  Select the ID file name from the list box, or enter the file name in the text box.  Change the path if needed.

3  Click on OK.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Saving an ID

Starting a New ID


Removing a Control

To remove a control:

1  Select the control you want to remove.

2  Click on Edit, then on Cut.

Related Topics

Selecting a Control


Renaming a Panel

In Expert mode, you can rename a panel you have added previously.  You cannot rename panels predefined by HP DWT.

To rename a panel:

1  Change to Expert mode.

2  Change to the panel you want to rename.

3  Click on the panel to be renamed.

4  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

5  Click on OK to accept your entry.

Related Topics

Changing the Current Panel

Changing the Work Mode

Deleting a Panel


Saving an ID

You can save an ID when using Expert mode.

To save changes to the current ID file:

*  Click on File, then on Save.

To save a new ID or current ID under a new file name:

1  Click on File, then on Save As...

2  Enter a file name.  Change the path if needed.

3  Click on OK.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Compiling Your ID

Opening an Existing ID

Starting a New ID


Selecting a Control

You need to select a panel feature before you can copy, move, or remove it.

To select a control:

*  Click on the control using the right mouse button.

OR

1  Click on Edit, then on Select.

2  Place the crosshairs over the control, and click the left mouse button.

Related Topics

Copying a Control

Moving a Control

Removing a Control


Specifying Couplings

Coupled features in instruments are those that interact with each other when settings change.  In a function generator, the frequency may change when the function setting changes.  If the ID couples frequency to function, then the driver will query the instrument for a new frequency each time the function setting changes.  Sometimes more than one feature may be coupled to another.  You should identify coupled controls and displays so the ID simulates actual instrument operation more closely.

To specify couplings:

1  Create all controls and displays required for the ID.

2  Access the Couplings dialog box by clicking on Other, then on Couplings.

3  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

4  Click on OK to accept your selections.

Related Topics

Creating Continuous Controls

Creating Discrete Controls

Creating Numeric Displays

Creating Push Buttons

Creating String Input Controls

Creating Toggle Buttons

Creating X-Y Displays


Specifying the Reset Button

The reset button lets the ID user put the instrument into a reset or preset condition.  This is usually similar to its power-on condition.  A reset button is provided when you start an ID.  You may need to use the Reset String Command dialog box to change the specifications for your instrument.

In Learning mode, this dialog box is the second one to appear.

To change reset specifications in Expert mode:

1  Change the work mode to Expert mode.

2  Click on the green Reset button.

3  Change the dialog box contents as needed for your instrument.  Click on Help for details.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode


Starting a New ID

HP DWT starts a new ID each time you finish one in Learning mode.  In Expert mode, you can start a new ID anytime.

To start a new ID from Expert mode:

*  Click on File, then on New.

To start a new ID from Learning mode:

1  Enter Expert mode by clicking on Other, then on Learning Mode.

2  Click on File, then on New.

3  Re-enter Learning mode by clicking on Other, then on Learning Mode.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Opening an Existing ID

Saving an ID


Supporting Auto Update

Auto Update lets you pick one control or display to support HP ITG's Automatic Update feature.  Since you can pick only one control or display in HP DWT, you should pick a display.  (HP VEE does not support Auto Update.)

To include Auto Update support:

1  Complete all controls and displays for the ID in Learning or Expert mode.

2  Access the Auto Update dialog box in Expert mode, by clicking on Other, then on Auto Update.  In Learning mode, choose to do Auto Update when you are done creating controls and panels.

3  Highlight one of the control or display names that appear in the list box.

4  Click on OK to accept your pick.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Creating Numeric Displays


Supporting State Recall

To support the State Recall feature, the ID must include the specifications for it.

NOTE

State Recall is an advanced feature.  Only ID programmers familiar with the HP Instrument Driver language should attempt to support it in an ID.  For ID language documentation, order the manual, HP Instrument Driver Language Reference.  For ordering instructions, see the Related Topics below.

To support State Recall:

1  Create all buttons and controls required for the ID.

2  If you are working in Learning mode, change to Expert mode.

3  Access the State Recall dialog box by clicking on Other, then on Recall.

4  Complete the dialog box using Help for details.

5  Click on OK to accept the current order.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Creating Continuous Controls

Creating Discrete Controls

Creating Push Buttons

Creating String Input Controls

Creating Toggle Buttons

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

What happens during State Recall?


What happens during State Recall?

State recall is performed by HP VEE or HP ITG with IDs that have had their DWT State Recall Dialog Box filled out.  The basic idea behind state recall is that we will change the instrument from one state to another by sending the instrument commands needed to change each control in the instrument in the correct sequence for that instrument.

State recall is best explained by example.  Assume that you have a mulitmeter with two controls:  function and range.  Let's say that function is ACV and range is 30V.  That is the current state of the instrument.  We want to recall a state where function is DCV and range is 3V.  (In other words, we want to change the instrument settings so that function is DCV and range is 3V.)

During recall, HP VEE or HP ITG walks through the controls in the order in which they were entered in the State Recall Dialog Box, and HP VEE or HP ITG sends the command string(s) to set the value of each control.  So in our example, the command to set the function to DCV would be sent, followed by the command to set the range to 3V.

Note that we would NOT want to set the range first, since in most multimeters, there are ranges that are not supported by some functions, and so the device could give errors or ignore the range command.  Note also that for complex instruments, it may not always be easy to decide on the order in which to send commands.

For many instruments, you should send reset first, since it is easier to go from the known reset state to an arbitrary state than from one arbitrary state to another.  Of course, sending reset every time may slow down the instrument, so you have to make a speed/complexity tradeoff.  There are many devices for which you will have to study the book listed below and write the ID code for the recall yourself:  the complexity is just beyond the scope of the DWT.

The state recall dialog box will list the recall control first, and we suggest that you send reset first to make it easier to order the controls.  It will not list displays or readings, since these never need to be set in order to change the state of an instrument.

Related Topics

Ordering HP Instrument Driver Language Reference

State Recall Dialog Box

Supporting State Recall


Working in Expert Mode

Expert mode is the alternate operating mode for HP DWT.  In this mode, you have full control over the order you use to create and edit an ID.  HP DWT uses the same dialog boxes as in Learning mode to create the ID's panel.  This mode is best to use after you are familiar with HP DWT.

All of the HP DWT commands are available to you.  However, commands remain dimmed if they are not allowed.  You can rearrange controls on the panel, add or delete controls and subpanels, and change specifications.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Create Menu Commands

File Menu Commands

Other Menu Commands


Working in Learning Mode

Learning mode is the default operating mode when running HP DWT.  In this mode HP DWT guides you through essential dialog boxes that create and save a usable ID.  All you do is supply information including the commands the driver needs to control the instrument over the bus.  Help is available for each dialog box.  This mode is best to use when using HP DWT for the first time, or for creating a new ID quickly.

The only commands available to you are under Edit and Other.  The Edit commands let you Select, Cut, Copy, and Paste controls that exist on the ID panel.  You cannot otherwise change the specifications for any controls or displays that are on the ID panel.  You need to use Expert mode to do that.

Related Topics

Changing the Work Mode

Working in Expert Mode


ITG is not running

HP ITG must be running when you tell HP DWT to load the ID into HP ITG.   The ID has been compiled successfully.  To load the driver into HP ITG now, start HP ITG  II, then, in HP DWT, click on File-Save As.


Names must be unique

The name you want to use for a control or panel already exists in this ID.  Each control and panel must have a unique name.


Missing label

In the Discrete dialog box, each item in the list box must have a Label.


Missing output string

In the Discrete dialog box, each item in the list box must have an Output String.


Need at least two items

In the Discrete dialog box, at least two items must appear in the list box.  To add items, select a line in the list box, then click on Add, and enter the information.  If you require only one item in the list box, create a Push Button instead of a Discrete Control.


Missing query response string

In the Discrete dialog box, each item in the list box must have a Query Response string if you filled in the box by Query String.  Either add Query Response strings to each item, or delete the Query String.


Max must be >= Min

In the Continuous dialog box, the value entered for Minimum Value must be less than the value for Maximum Value.


Initial must be >= Min and <= Max

In the Continuous dialog box, the value for Initial Value must be greater than or equal to the Minimum Value, and less than or equal to the Maximum Value.


Min, Max, and Initial must be > 0 for log resolutions

In the Continuous dialog box, if you click on More, then change Resolution from Linear to Logarithmic, then the Minimum, Maximum, and Initial values must all be greater than 0.


Resolution must be >= 0

In the Continuous dialog box, if you click on More, then change the Linear Resolution, it must be greater than or equal to 0.


Initial string is too long

In the String Input dialog box, the length of the initial string is longer than the value specified for Max Chars.  Either shorten the string for Initial Value, or increase the value for Max Chars.


Panel names must be unique

The name you want to use for a panel already exists in this ID.  Each panel must have a unique name.


A number is required

A number must be entered in the field.  Numbers can be entered in scientific notation such as -1.2E+7.


Too many couplings

There is a limit of 100 couplings.  If you need more than that, use HP DWT's custom editing feature.


Error reading couplings header

Your HP DWT file has been edited or corrupted, and cannot be read by HP DWT.


Error reading couplings portion of file

Your HP DWT file has been edited or corrupted, and cannot be read by HP DWT.


Syntax error during read -- missing a blank

Your HP DWT file has been edited or corrupted, and cannot be read by HP DWT.


Syntax error during read -- wrong tag

Your HP DWT file has been edited or corrupted, and cannot be read by HP DWT.


Error reading input file

Your HP DWT file has been edited or corrupted, and cannot be read by HP DWT.


Error opening file

There was an error opening your .DWT file.  Check the file name.  If the file name is correct, increase the value for FILES= in your CONFIG.SYS file.


Too many discrete values

In the Discrete dialog box, there is a limit of 100 items allowed in the list box.  If you need more items, use HP DWT's custom edit feature.


Out of memory

Your system does not have enough memory available to complete the action.  Close unnecessary windows and applications, then try again.


Not enough memory for the "Cancel" button to work.

Saving the original version of your control used more memory than is available.  The original values entered for the control are not saved in memory.  You can still make any changes that you want, but you will be forced to accept the changes by pressing OK.  You cannot cancel these changes.


Error writing file

There was an error writing your file.  Your disk is probably full, or you need to increase the value for FILES= in your CONFIG.SYS file.


Error creating file

There was an error creating your file.  Your disk is probably full, or you need to increase the value for FILES= in your CONFIG.SYS file.


Out of buffer space generating code

A string in your ID is too long.  Check all of your controls and panels to make sure that there are no excessively long strings or discrete tables.


Object of unknown size -- cannot continue

This is an internal error.  Please call your local HP Sales Representative.


Object name not found

This is an internal error.  Please call your local HP Sales Representative.


Error -- no device exists

This is an internal error.  Please call your local HP Sales Representative.


Too many objects

There is a limit on the number of objects that you can have.  If you exceed this limit, you are developing an ID outside of HP DWT's capacity.  You should use a text editor to write your ID.


File has wrong version number.

The .DWT file you are trying to read was created with a different version of HP DWT.  This version of HP DWT cannot read your file.


Could not create main device window

Windows is out of resources.  Close some windows or applications, or start your Windows session over again.


Could not create window - out of memory

Your system does not have enough memory available to create a window.  Close unnecessary windows and applications, then try again.


Could not run the HPIDC compiler

HP DWT could not run the ID compiler (HPIDC.EXE) to compile your ID.  HPIDC.EXE must be in the same directory as HPDWT.EXE, which is usually C:\HPITG2\BIN for HP ITG and C:\VEE for HP VEE.


Value must be between X and Y

The value you enter must be a number between X and Y inclusive.


Name cannot be blank

The name of this control or panel is not filled in.  It must be filled in.


Reserved word

This is a reserved word in the ID language.  You cannot use reserved words as Control or Panel Names.  Use a different name.  Click HERE for a list of reserved words.


Old file version -- XY display must be redone

The ID's X-Y display was created in a previous version of HP DWT, and cannot be used in the current version.  You need to recreate the X-Y display using the current HP DWT version.


Reserved Words

Scroll through the following list for words reserved in the ID language.  You cannot use these words in IDs as control or panel names:

ASCII

DISABLE

ENABLE

ENTER

FORMAT

LOOP

MARKER

OUTPUT

PREFIX

SCALE

SIZE

STEP

STRING

TRIGGER