How to Properly Run and Close a TestStand Sequence Using CMD

Running a TestStand sequence from the Windows Command Prompt can be a convenient way to automate test execution without manually opening the Sequence Editor. However, if not done correctly, you might notice that SeqEdit.exe remains active in Task Manager even after the sequence finishes. This article explains how to run and close a TestStand sequence properly using CMD.

When executing a TestStand sequence via the command line, many users encounter an issue where the Sequence Editor (SeqEdit.exe) stays open after the sequence completes. This can lead to unnecessary resource usage and potential conflicts in automated workflows.

Step 1: Open the Command Prompt

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type cmd and press Enter.
  Alternatively:
  • Click Start, type Command Prompt, and select it from the search results.
  • For administrative privileges, right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.

Step 2: Run the Sequence and Close SeqEdit.exe

Use the following command in the Command Prompt:

start /wait SeqEdit.exe /run MainSequence "C:\Users\Public\Documents\National Instruments\TestStand 2023 (64-bit)\Examples\Demos\Computer Motherboard Test\LabVIEW\Computer Motherboard Test Sequence.seq" /quit

Explanation of Command Components

• start /wait
  Launches a program and waits for it to finish before returning control to the command prompt.

• SeqEdit.exe
  The executable for the TestStand Sequence Editor.

• /run MainSequence
  Runs the sequence named MainSequence, typically the default entry point.

• "C:\Users\Public\Documents\National Instruments\TestStand 2023 (64-bit)\Examples\Demos\Computer Motherboard Test\LabVIEW\Computer Motherboard Test Sequence.seq"
  Full path to the sequence file. Use quotes if the path contains spaces.

• /quit
  Closes the Sequence Editor after the sequence finishes running.