Network Variable Engine? Issue with Ethernet equipment and Modbus I/O server

[amonem]

Hi,

I'm working on a project that involves 2 PCs that interface via Modbus serial (no ethernet connection between the PCs). I have created a simple stub that is able to change the slave's holding registers. I then moved on to plugging in a signal generator via ethernet (directly into the laptop's ethernet port), and I now get a deployment error as seen here:

Once I unplug the signal generator, I am able to deploy successfully.

Some notes:

The ethernet card's IP address is set to 192.168.0.5, the signal generator is on 192.168.0.11. My wireless connection is set on 128.189.69.110. I notice that without the signal generator connected, I am able to successfully deploy on 128.189.69.110.

Another thing to note is that I cannot seem to find "Network Variable Engine" anywhere. I have installed the LabVIEW 2013 Real-Time Module and it does not appear to have this engine. This KB article http://digital.ni.com/public.nsf/allkb/B12E0259C2ECC26C862579510064004F tells me to install it via NI MAX but I do not see any Network Variable Engine entry when I go into LV2013RT module.

[fromm8]

Hello amonem

That error is pointing directly to the Network Variable Engine so we should assure that everything there is fine. Always, if I expand software in NI MAX for my cRIO or RT target I can see the Network Variable Engine listed. Could you take screenshots of your NI MAX to check what do you have? You should have the 13.0 version of the engine.

Regards

Frank R.

[amonem]

According to my research, the Network Variable Engine should be included in the Real Time Module, which I have installed. However, it is not listed here. What else do I need to install?

The system comprises of 2 PCs that both have the same suite of software installed. They are using an RS-232 cable (Modbus I/O server) as their only way of talking to eachother.

[fromm8]

Hello amonem,

We can find the network variable engine under your RT target, not under your PC. Since you are not using cRIO, we should check the service instead, the "NI variable engine" should be started in your PC's. How is it?

Regards

Frank R.

[amonem]

The NI Variable Engine is up and running on the PC.

The problem only arises when I plug in my signal generator via Ethernet. Once I unplug the signal generator, I am able to successfully deploy.

I noticed that when the sig gen is plugged in, it tries to deploy on my ethernet card (192.168.0.5) and if it is not connected then it tries to deploy on 127.0.0.1 or my wifi adapter.

[fromm8]

Hello Amonem,

I apologize if the steps I have given have not been useful but the issue is a little weird. Could you check your IP configuration in your project when you are going to deploy: Deploying Shared Variables to a Specific Network Card

Regards

Frank R.