Troubleshooting Tips When Setting up the RPLidar in PC

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Introduction

The RPLidar series of 2D laser scanners has become a popular choice for applications ranging from robotics to environmental mapping. While the hardware is relatively easy to use, setting it up on a PC, especially for first-time users, can present a range of challenges. Issues such as incorrect serial port configurations can hinder initial testing and deployment. This blog provides a concise guide to troubleshooting common issues I encountered when setting up the RPLidar on a PC.

1. When your Windows PowerShell does not detect winget.


  • Install App Installer (to get winget)

winget comes with the App Installer from the Microsoft Store.

To install:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store

  2. Search for "App Installer"

  3. Click Install or Update

Once it's installed, open a new PowerShell and run:

winget --version

You should now be able to use winget.


*If you still don’t see winget, follow the steps below:

  1. Open File Explorer

  2. Go to:

    C:\Users\<your-username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps

    (you can paste it in the address bar)

  3. Look for a file named winget.exe

If you see it move on with the next steps.

  1. Go to environment variables.



  1. Click on environment variables, then go to path and click edit then add the path below:

C:\Users\<your-username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps


  1. Click OK and restart PowerShell.

This enables PowerShell to detect winget hence now you’ll be able to run the command, winget install usbipd, enabling you to install usbipd as shown below.



7. Continue setting up your RPLidar following the steps on the RPLidar Setup.


2. When usbipd does not install

If usbipd does not install via winget, an alternative method is manual installation via GitHub releases.

  • Go to the official GitHub repository for usbipd-win:
    Releases · dorssel/usbipd-win

  • Find the latest release (or the version you want), and download the usbipd-win-x.x.x.msi installer file.



  • Run the .msi installer to install usbipd.

  • After installation, verify by opening PowerShell and running:

    usbipd --version

  • Continue setting up the lidar following the steps on the RPLidar Setup.



References


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