Howto #12
Problem: Error upon first start of pics_gui.

    Diagnostic :
  • exposure finished.
    loading file
    
    % MESSAGE: Expression must be a scalar in this context: MESSAGE.
    % Error occurred at: FXREAD 169 /export/home/local/lib/idl/astrolib/ pro/fxread.pro
    % LOAD_CCD 689 /export/home/pmas/idl/PICS/pics_gui.pro
    % PICS_GUI_EVENT 2569 /export/home/pmas/idl/PICS/pics_gui.pro
    % WIDGET_PROCESS_EVENTS
    % $MAIN$ 1 /usr/local/pmasSW/p3d_init.pro
    % Execution halted at: LOAD_CCD 689 /export/home/pmas/idl/PICS/pics_gui.pro

    Explanation :
  • This error occurs when pics_gui is started with mosaic configuration, but does not find an initial file of the expected amplifier channel (D) in the default data directory. Known bug.

    Solution :
  • Start mosaic bias from IDL command line:
    
    pics_s_bias,e
    
    
    when finished, restart pics_gui.

    Applies also in standard 1-chip configuration when no fits file is found in default directory.