Skip to main content

Hioki 3197 Power Quality Analyzer

The is supported by a dedicated software suite that facilitates data management and remote operation . While the 3197 device is now discontinued—succeeded by the PQ3100 —the software remains a critical tool for existing users. Software Overview & Downloads

Hioki 3197

For professionals in electrical engineering, power quality analysis, and industrial maintenance, the is not just another piece of test equipment—it's a cornerstone tool for logging power supply anomalies and conducting energy-saving audits. However, owning the powerful Hioki 3197 Power Quality Analyzer is only half the battle. To unlock its full potential for data analysis, reporting, and PC-based control, you need the correct companion software.

  • Operating systems: The original software was designed for Windows 95/98/XP. For Windows 10/11, use compatibility mode (right-click installer → Properties → Compatibility → Run for Windows XP SP3). Alternatively, run the software inside a Windows XP virtual machine (VirtualBox or VMware).
  • Connection: The 3197 uses RS-232C (DB9) or optional USB (via an RS-232-to-USB adapter). Ensure you install the correct USB-serial driver (e.g., FTDI or Prolific) before connecting the instrument.
  • No software needed for basic logging: If you simply want to log data without analysis, the 3197 can output to a PC as a virtual COM port. Any terminal software (PuTTY, Tera Term) can capture CSV-formatted data by sending simple SCPI-like commands.

9. Conclusion

9624-50 PQA-HiVIEW PRO

For more advanced professional analysis, Hioki previously offered the software, which supports the 3197 along with the 3198 and 3196 models.

Installation fails with "Missing DLL"

| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Missing Visual C++ Redistributables | Install VC++ 2008 and 2010 (32-bit) from Microsoft. | | Software connects but data is garbled | Baud rate mismatch | Set 3197 interface and PC software both to 19200 bps, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity. | | USB device not recognized | Wrong driver or USB 3.0 port | Force install CP210x driver. Use a USB 2.0 port or powered hub. | | Download stops at 50% | Loose RS-232 cable or electrical noise | Use a shielded RS-232 cable less than 5 meters long. Reduce logging frequency. |

software up and running, you need a combination of the application suite and a specific communication driver.