The GX6188 software features a simulation mode which allows you to write test code for the switching subsystem and observe the effects that your test code would have on the switching cards’. Upon system boot-up, the simulated domain is reset, behaving the same as a physical board’s relays would for a reset condition. Calling the DLL functions or using the software tools with simulation enabled will open and close the same relays and read back relay information in the same manner as it would if the software was controlling a physical board.
Enabling simulation depends on the tool used:
● ATEasy: Enable simulation by toggling the Simulate option in the Conditions menu
● C++: Set simulate to TRUE when calling the Gx6188Initialize or Gx6188InitializeVisa function.
● GX6188/SwitchExec Panel: Check the Simulation box prior to performing any functions via the panel, and then click Initialize (panel only) to enter Simulation mode. Uncheck the box and click Initialize (panel only) to leave Simulation mode.
To present an accurate simulation, the configuration of your chassis must be modeled in GxSw.ini, which is located by default ar %ProgramData%\Marvin Test Solutions\GxSw. The INI file format configuration file that holds information about the local PC's simulation and exclusion rules. The data configured in the file should follow these rules to enable simulation:
● The section Gx6188BoardCount must be defined.
● Gx6188BoardCount should contain a single key called boards with a single integer assigned to it. The number should be between 1 and 20.
● The section Gx6188Slots must be defined.
● Gx6188Slots should contain a single key called slot which contains a comma-separated list of slots you want to populate with simulated GX6188s. Valid slot numbers are between 2 and 21. The number of items in the list should be greater than or equal to the value set in the board key.
If you do not want to use the GxSw.ini file in the default location, the Gx6188SetConfigurationFile function can be used to select a new file and location.
Note that the GxSw.ini is shared by allGENASYS switching subsystems. Simulation and exclusion information may be present in the configuration file that doesn’t affect the GX6188 switching subsystem.
The following information added to the INI file will cause the SwitchExec and Gx6188 Panel to simulate a switching domain of 3 board, located in slots 6, 7, and 8.
[Gx6188BoardCount]
boards=3
[Gx6188Slots]
slot=6,7,8