Generic Device Driver
Entering Commands and Properties

To define new properties and functions within a driver, it is very important to realize the difference between functions and properties.

A property is a single numerical value or string that can be read and written under Chromeleon. If a property value is modified, the driver sends the corresponding serial command to the instrument. This command usually contains the new numerical value of the property as a variable component. However, the driver can also access the values of other device properties when building up the string sent to the other instrument. The property is assigned the new value only if the serial command is performed correctly.

A command can be executed only. Its parameters are set during execution. The parameters cannot be read, but are placeholders for the current numerical values during activation. Activation causes the driver to send a serial command to the instrument. Usually, this command contains the numerical values of the parameters as a variable component. The driver can also access the values of other device properties when building up the string sent to the instrument.

Generally, avoid using functions with parameters. Dionex recommends using properties or functions without parameters, instead. These can be represented more easily as panel controls in the Chromeleon user interface.

The Generic Device Driver can contain any number of properties and functions. Each property can be linked with any appropriate control in the user interface. As with other device drivers, a corresponding command string is sent to the instrument after each modification of the control.

For an overview, refer to  The Generic Device Driver.