Create a Custom Step Type in TestStand from a Built-In Step Type

TestStand contains built-in step types, which are located in  NI_Types.ini.  I want to create copy of the built-in step type and modify it in MyTypes.ini or any another type palette. How can I do this in TestStand?

In order to create a new type based on an existing one, you should copy and paste the type WITHIN the file that references it. This will make TestStand create a uniquely named copy of the type. You can then cut the new type and paste it in the type palette file of your choice.

The following instructions show how to make a copy of the built-in PassFailTest step type in a custom type palette file:

1. Open the Type Palette window (View » Type Palette) and select NI_Types.ini in the View ring.

 

• Right-click on the PassFailTest step type and select "Copy" from the pop-up window. Right-click on <Right click to insert Type> and select "Paste" from the pop-up window. TestStand pastes a new type with the name of "PassFailTest_2".

 

• Right-click on the new PassFailTest_2 and select "Cut" from the pop-up menu.

 

• In the View ring, select the type palette file where you want to paste your new type.  Right-click on the right pane and select "Paste". You can now edit this step type to implement your changes.

Optionally, TestStand can automatically do all the above for you and paste a copy of the built-in step type in the type palette file named MyTypes.ini. Do the following to accomplish this:

1. Open the Type Palette window (View » Type Palette) and select NI_Types.ini in the View ring.
    
2. Right-click on the PassFailTest step type and select "Copy" from the pop-up window. In MyTypes.ini, right-click on <Right click to insert Type> and select "Paste." A warning will appear stating the following: 
    

The file did not previously reference one or more of the type(s) you added so TestStand attached these type(s) to the file.
If you want to create a new type based on an existing type, copy and paste the type within a file that already references the type so that TestStand pastes a uniquely named copy of that type.
 
Therefore, it is recommended that the first series of steps be followed to create another copy of a TestStand step type.

Additional Information

Note: In TestStand 2.0, you will receive the following warning:   
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Type 'PassFailTest' cannot be modified because it is an NI Installed Type (You can disable this restriction in the Sequence Editor Options). Would you like to make a copy of the type 'PassFailTest'?
 
If you receive the warning message, go to Configure » Sequence Editor Options and disable the "Allow Editing of NI Installed Types" checkbox. Click "Yes". TestStand automatically copies the step type and pastes a new type with the name of "PassFailTest_Copy" in MyTypes.ini.