HU Error and AC Controller Glitches

[Little_b]

I am trying to run a test sequence to make sure I have plugged everything correctly, but when I run it, it lags and skips.  I tried running HU to see if all the controllers are responding and I get this error-

Serial Event Error (Poll Type 41)

Subscript out of Range

I click OK, but the message won't go away and I can't close HU or do anything for that matter.  I have to close it via the Task Manager.  My system has been running fine since Halloween, only difference is that now I have added a whole lot more controllers.

Thanks,

[dgrant]

Have you tried letting it automatically find and assign the serial port via the HU? I've not seen that error before so truly I don't know. There could be an issue with your software, therefore you might do a full re-installation, BUT, BACKUP everything first!!! Also, just in case, hope you are not trying to run the HU and the show player/sequencer at the same time?

[Little_b]

Thought I would give an update in case anyone else has a similar issue.  Problem was solved, although the root cause is still under investigation.  Trial and error steps I took-

Setup- my show computer sits on my desk in my office and I have 4 data lines (3 LOR networks and one E1.31 network) that run up the wall, to the attic, then outside. 

Reinstalled and upgraded the software- no change

Swapped adapters- the error occurred on new adapter and comm port- swapped them back

Cut and replaced connectors on cat5e cable from adapter to first controller

Tested each cat5e cable in the line- all tested fine

I started disconnecting controllers one by one to see if there was an issue with a jack on the controller- no change  (I found a bad jack doing this a couple years ago.)

I connected a controller to the adapter on my desk, in a sense trying a new cable- problem went away.

So even though the cable tests fine on the tester, somehow the system didn't like it.  I even went into the attic to physically check the cable and I didn't see any issues.  I've heard of others who have had rodents chew on them, which was my biggest fear as I've never had that issue, and I didn't see any evidence of it.  I don't believe it's the batch of wiring as there are several other sections from that same batch in use.  My tester is just a simple pin tester off Amazon, but I have a Brother in Law who installs networks for a living and I had him bring his more advanced tester over to test the cable.  It tested fine on his equipment as well.  Thinking it may be the adapter, I put it on one of the other LOR Network lines to test, and it works just fine.  There is just something with that one cable that has the issue, and it just popped up this year.  I've used it for many years up till now.

I connected those controllers to one of the other LOR networks and the show works like it should.  At some point I'll be changing out that cable.

[TheDucks]

Do all the attic cables follow the same path?

It is possible the failing cable crosses close to a Can light on a Dimmer (dimmers can be nasty EMI generators) or old school fluorescent fixture

Also TERMINATE (the Last controller) pins 4-5 with 120 ohms. That can help clean up a signal.

[Little_b]

3 of them go out the same direction, one LOR network goes to the other side of the house, this one is not the problem.  They only go about 5' through the attic to the outside, and don't go near any fixtures.  Knowing about probable static caused from running along side AC lines, I keep them separated as much as possible.

[dgrant]

It sounds like you are on the right track. The tester I use came from Lowes, simple pin tester too but hasn't failed me yet. Let us know what your brother-in-law finds please. If you are home before he gets there, try bypassing the cable directly by running straight from the adapter to the outside via the door. RS485 can handle up to '4000

[Little_b]

Both testers showed it was fine, but It is still somewhere in that cable.  I ran a new line out the front window like you suggested and everything works fine through that adapter.  I even swapped adapters putting the "bad" one on the cable that I know works and it worked fine.  The "good" adapter on the questionable cable came out faulty.  When I get around to changing it out, I'll pull it and see if I can find a problem that I can't currently see, maybe in the 8ft section of wall it runs up.  

[dgrant]

At least you've identified the cause, generally speaking. Most likely it got caught on a nail or something chewed on it.

[k6ccc]

When you get a chance, check to make sure the cable is wired right.  I have seen cables where there was the same wiring error on both ends,  The result is that all but the most sophisticated cable testers will see it correct, but in the case I saw, some of the pairs were split so that data was traveling on two wires, but they were not a twisted pair.  Messes up date really well.