There are a number of problems that can prevent the M3 software from launching when you click on the M2/M3 icon on the desktop.  Here are the most common problems and solutions:

The Desktop Icon is no longer mapped to the M3 software!

Solution: 

1. Delete the M3 icon on the desktop.

2. From Windows File Explorer, Navigate to the following depending on your version: 

     M3 Version 1:  C:\Program Files (x86)\M3 Measuring Software\        

     M3 Version 2: C:\Program Files (x86)\M3 V2 Measuring Software\

     M3 Version 3: C:\Program Files (x86)\M3 V3 Measuring Software\

     M3 Version 4: C:\Program Files\M3 V4 Measuring Software\

3.  Find the file M3.exe and right-click on it.

4.  From the pop-up menu, select Create Shortcut and click on "Yes" to the warning message "Windows can't create a shortcut here. Do you want a shortcut to be placed on the desktop instead?"

5. Test by clicking on the newly created desktop shortcut for the M3 Software.

If this does not work, try the next solution.

The USB Port Drivers are not resetting correctly!

Solution:

1.  First try Rebooting the computer, then test to see if M3 will launch.   If not, move to step two.

2.  Locate the USB port the M3 Interface Box is plugged into.  Plug it into a different port and test M3 again to see if it will launch.  Try at least two or three different USB ports.

If this does not work, try the next solution.

Corrupt M3 Settings File!

Solution:

1.  From Windows File Explorer, Navigate to the following:  C:\Users\Public\Documents\MetLogix\Settings\

2.  Rename all the M3 Settings files to the following:

      SettingsM3.xml    to    SettingsM3_old.xml

      SettingsM3v2.xml to SettingsM3v2_old.xml

      SettingsM3v3.xml to SettingsM3v3_old.xml

      SettingsM3v4.xml to SettingsM3v4_old.xml

3.  Launch the M3 Software.  You will see a RED Error Message when you do this!

4.  Click on the M3 icon in the top left corner.

5.  Select Settings.

6.  Click on the “About” button.

7.  Click on the “Restore Backup” button.

8.  Select a backup file with a date that you think your system was working correctly prior to the problem and then click Open

9.  M3 software will shut down

10. Launch the M3 software and check that the error is resolved. If not follow steps 1 – 4 and while restoring the backup file and pick an earlier date.

*If the above steps do not resolve the issue, please open a support ticket here or send us an email at help@visioneng.support