Can't Communicate with TCS

The 20-inch telescope control system (TCS) communicates with the user either through the PC keyboard or the RS232C serial port (COM1:) in the back of the computer.  You may receive a  message saying that you are unable to communicate with the telescope. There are a few ways to block RS232C communications:

1. The terminal server port is in use by someone else. Perhaps someone (you?) are already running MOP.
2. The terminal server port is in use by someone else. Maybe a previous program has crashed, leaving the terminal server port connected preventing a new connection. Follow the instructions on how to clear a Xyplex port.
3. TCS was started with the EXTERNAL COMPUTER switch in the OFF position.  This disables the port for EXCOM communications (which MOP uses), although The Sky can always talk to TCS. The fix is to reset the TCS computer, make sure the EXTERNAL COMPUTER switch on the control system front panel is ON, then start TCS.
4. The terminal server might not be connected to the RS232C port on the TCS computer. The TCS computer serial port can be connected either to the Xyplex terminal server (monts1) or the Linux/Windows computer (monxterm) in the dome (this is done when using The Sky). The selection is made with a rotary switch on the electronics rack to the right of the desk. Set the switch to select MOP (not THE SKY).
5. TCS has crashed. This rarely happens during normal operations, but it's worth checking. Check that the display looks normal (clocks ticking, etc) and if you can control the telescope from the keyboard in the dome. If not, reset the computer and restart TCS.

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