Error connecting to the Planewave focuser via PWI4

Sequence Generator Equipment Compatibility
1

Hi all, I’ve just tried to upgrade to the Planewave PWI4 software, having been using PWI3 for many years. THE PWI4 software connects successfully to the planewave focuser, dew heater etc., however when I start SGP and try to connect the focuser, it returns:

‘Error connecting to Planewave Focuser (vis PWI4)’,

The log file states the below:

“[12/14/25 18:48:43.630][DEBUG][Main Thread][NONE] Connecting ASCOM focuser…
[12/14/25 18:48:47.668][DEBUG][Main Thread][NONE] Failed to connect to focuser. : Unable to connect to PWI. Check that the application is running and connected to the focuser.
Additional details:
The operation has timed out (System.Net.WebException)
at ASCOM.PWI4.Focuser.<>c__DisplayClass22_0.<set_Connected>b__0()
at ASCOM.PWI4.CallLogger.LogCall(String category, String logPrefix, Action action)
at ASCOM.PWI4.CallLogger.LogCall(Object arg1, Action action)
at ASCOM.PWI4.Focuser.set_Connected(Boolean value)
at ASCOM.PWI4.Focuser.<>c__DisplayClass40_0.<set_Link>b__0()
at ASCOM.PWI4.CallLogger.LogCall(String category, String logPrefix, Action action)
at ASCOM.PWI4.CallLogger.LogCall(Object arg1, Action action)
at ASCOM.PWI4.Focuser.set_Link(Boolean value)
at u1.jd()
[12/14/25 18:48:47.668][DEBUG][Main Thread][NONE] Disconnecting ASCOM Focuser: ASCOM.PWI4.Focuser”

Previously with PWI3 connecting would start the PWI3 application, do I need to start the PWI4 application now prior to running SGP based on the log message “ Unable to connect to PWI. Check that the application is running and connected to the focuser.” or am I missing something obvious and apologies if I am.

Thank you

2

Sorry, I honestly don’t know. I haven’t ever used either before. If PW3 started automatically on connect in the past if was, with 100% certainty, not any kind of special PWI-specific action taken by SGPro and rather was something in the old driver that did this

3

Thank yiou Ken for the prompt response, not a big issue, I just have to start PWI4 manually before connecting equipment, very manageable.

4

PWI4 provides the ASCOM interface SGPro is trying to use. Most people keep PWI4 running continuously.

Charlie