xmis2 functionality failures, revisiting SOPs

Friday, September 3, 2021 5:16 AM

Problem(s) Encountered:

MIS probe wouldn't move on two occasions tonight. A simple power cycle got itback each time. However these instances plus once last night are greater than the average number of times I typically do this over an observing run. 

Solution:

It’s worth a reminder that observers should demand only one action at a time from xmis2.  In other words, if the FINDER is moving, don’t cycle any lamps.  If moving the guide probe, don’t move the FINDER.  Etc.  Doing one command, then waiting for completion before issuing another command tends to make for a much more robust xmis2 experience.  Of course, failures do sometimes occur regardless and cycling power to the MIS electronics box is a suitable solution most of the time.