As anyone who is running NIS Elements v 3.20 + is aware, the ASI stage controllers of any MS-2000 series will not be usable once elements issues a connection command to the controller. Elements will control the stage properly, however the user will not be able to position the stage using the manual joystick. So, the guys at ASI have found the cause of the problem and have issued a series of firmware updates that will fix a variety of controllers.
***DISCLAIMER*** –
These files MUST be used on the correct controller. If you use the wrong file it could cause some serious problems for your controller/stage/software. So, call ASI or shoot me an email if you have any doubt whatsoever about this. Basically, if you had any custom option on your stage (inverted axis, non-standard lead-screw or other modification) CALL ASI and give them your serial # so they can make sure everything will work for you.
Or, better yet: make your direct or dealer rep do the patch. That way they can take the blame if they screw things up 🙂
Required Items:
First, you’ll need ASI’s firmware updater, which can be found here.
Second, you’ll need one of these files:
Standard XY Controller Firmware
Standard XYZ Controller Firmware
Piezo Enabled XYZ Controller Firmware
Installation of the Patch:
– Install the Firmware5 updater on your computer.
– Restart the computer and restart the ASI controller. This just makes sure no other program is controlling the stage.
– Run the Updater5, and select the appropriate firmware files.
– apply the update.
– You should see a “firmware update complete” message when the update has finished.
– Power-cycle the controller, and check that the system responds to joystick commands etc. Check that the firmware version on stage start-up reads “8.8f”. This indicates that the patch was successfully applied.
– Run Elements – everything should work now, including the joystick.
Thanks to Gary at ASI for working on this and for providing a solution so quickly! This customer support is why you are on my Blogroll as the “favorite stage”! – Austin