diff --git a/spinnman/transceiver.py b/spinnman/transceiver.py
index 394f36877..7b6df616e 100644
--- a/spinnman/transceiver.py
+++ b/spinnman/transceiver.py
@@ -1139,7 +1139,8 @@ def _power(self, power_command, boards=0, cabinet=0, frame=0):
         if not self._machine_off:
             time.sleep(BMP_POST_POWER_ON_SLEEP_TIME)
 
-    def read_fpga_register(self, fpga_num, register, cabinet, frame, board):
+    def read_fpga_register(
+            self, fpga_num, register, cabinet=0, frame=0, board=0):
         """
         Read a register on a FPGA of a board. The meaning of the
         register's contents will depend on the FPGA's configuration.