Sensoray 627 - Manual (Page 5)

Sensoray Model 27 Instruction
Manual
6
4. Software
The Sensoray Model 627 adapter is supplied with Sensoray’s HotSwap software utility that allows
replacing the CPCI boards without having to reboot the PC.
4.1. Installation
Run setup.exe from disk 1 of the disk set that comes with the adapter. Follow the on-line instructions of
the installation program.
If both Windows 95 and NT are installed on the PC, the installation has to be run separately under each
OS. It is recommended to select the same installation directory for the program files during both
installations, to avoid unnecessary duplication.
4.2. Operation
After the PC is powered up with the CPCI board under test in the Model 627 adapter, start the HotSwap
software utility. Click on the “Autodetect” button, until the board’s parameters are displayed in
VendorID and DeviceID fields. Click on the “Save config” button. (To view the board’s PCI
configuration space, select “View” from the menu bar). After the board’s configuration space is saved,
the adapter’s power can be turned off. When the board is replaced, and the adapter’s power is turned
back on, click on “Reload config” and the board is ready for operation.
The HotSwap software utility stores the configuration data only for one board at a time, but it is possible
to run several instances of this program if necessary.
5. Adapter board
5.1. Installation
Power down the PC. Plug the Model 627 adapter into a PCI slot and secure the PC bracket with the
screw. Plug in the board under test into the 627 adapter. Make sure the 627’s power switch is on
(depressed). Power up the PC.
5.2. Operation
PCI boards, unlike ISA boards, do not have any hardwired configuration information (addresses,
interrupts, etc.). Each PCI board is configured at the boot-up, and the configuration information is
stored in the PCI interface. Once the board is removed from the PC (even if the bus isolation adapter is
used to keep the PC running), the information stored on the board is lost, so it would normally not
respond to any PCI bus accesses after it is placed back into the adapter. Hence, the use of special
software is required that restores the configuration information after the board is powered back up. The
HotSwap utility that comes with the Model 627 adapter saves and restores the configuration space of the
PCI board. To be able to store this information initially, it requires the presence of the board (preferably
known good) in the system at the boot-up.