Issue
While trying to connect to a BACnet/Ethernet network with Workplace Commissioning Tool, the following error appears:
"An error occurred while open communications. Please verify communications settings and try again."
Environment
- Workplace Commissioning Tool
- BACnet/Ethernet network
Cause
Workplace Tech and WorkPlace Commissioning Tool use the NDIS BACnet Ethernet Packet driver to connect to BACnet/Ethernet networks. This driver's file name is KPF.sys and is known as a Kernel driver. If this file is not installed correctly or is halted by another program, BACnet/Ethernet will not function.
Resolution
To identify if Kernel driver is the issue, follow the steps below:
- Open system information from Windows - Accessories - System Tools - System Information
- Navigate to Software Environment - System Driver
- Look for KPF in the name column. If it is not there, re-install WorkPlace Tech as an administrator. Make sure there is no software running that might not allow this file to be loaded. Some virus software may also block the installation.
- If this file is there, check the state column to verify that it says running. Note: this driver will only say running if BACnet/Ethernet is being used.
- If the file is there but it is not running, ensure that the actual location of the file in Windows Explorer is the same as the file column location in System Info. If they are not, then copy the file to the location listed in System Info.
- To verify that this driver is working correctly, use the net start command at a command prompt (type "net start kpf"). If the driver is working, it will indicate that it is already running.
As this is a Kernel level driver, if the above steps do not resolve the issue, un-install WorkPlace Tech and re-install ensuring a local administrator account is used.