This topic explains how to create a device file in the VWorks software. If you already have a VWorks device file you want to use, skip this step and proceed to Adding and deleting a Labware MiniHub in the device file.

A device is an item in your lab automation system that has an entry in the VWorks device file. A device can be a robot, an instrument, or a location in the system that can hold a piece of labware. The following are some examples of devices:

To communicate with and to control the robot and integrated devices, the VWorks software uses a device file that contains the following information:

You provide the device information in the VWorks software. The device information is stored in a device (.dev) file that is located in a folder you specify when saving the file, for example, C:\VWorks Workspace\Device Files.

For detailed information about device files and associations with profiles, teachpoint files, and other VWorks components, see the VWorks Automation Control User Guide.

If you are setting up a lab automation system, such as a BenchCel Workstation, for the first time, you need to create a new device file, and then add the system or workstation robot, the Labware MiniHub, and other integrated devices to this file.

Before you create a device file, start the VWorks software and log in. See the VWorks Automation Control User Guide for instructions.