Chapter 6 543
Programming Fundamentals
Using the LAN to Control the Instrument
Programming Fundamentals
the node names database.
If you are using a UNIX environment, ping each node along the
route between your workstation and the instrument, starting with
the your workstation. Ping each gateway, then attempt a ping of the
remote file server.
If the instrument still does not respond to ping, then you should
suspect a hardware problem with the instrument. To check the
instrument performance, refer to "Verify the Instrument
Performance" in this chapter.
Intermittent Response If you received 1 to 8 packets back, there is
probably a problem with the network. Because the number of
packets received depends on your network traffic and integrity, the
numbermightbedifferentforyournetwork.
Use a LAN analyzer or LAN management software to monitor
activity and determine where bottlenecks or other problems are
occurring. The instrument will still function, but communications
over the LAN will be slower.
On a single-client/single-server network, the most likely cause of
intermittent response to an echo request is a hardware problem with
the LAN module installed in the PC, the cable, or the instrument. To
check the instrument, refer to "Verify the Instrument Performance"
later in this chapter.
The Standard UNIX PING Command Synopsis ping [-r][-v][-o]
host [packetsize][count]
Description The ping command sends an echo request packet to the host
once per second. Each echo response packet that is returned is listed on the
screen, along with the round-trip time of the echo request and echo response.
Options and Parameters -r Bypasses the routing tables, and sends the
request directly to the host.
-v Reports all packets that are received, including the response
packets.
-o Requests information about the network paths taken by the
requests and responses.
host The host name or IP address.
packetsize The size of each packet (8 bytes - 4096 bytes).
count The number of packets to send before ending ping (1-(231-1)).
If count is not specified, ping sends packets until
interrupted.