DH Instruments RPM4, RPM4 - VERSION 2004 Operation And Maintenance Manual

RPM4™

Reference Pressure Monitor

Operation and Maintenance Manual

High pressure liquids and gases are potentially hazardous. Energy stored in these liquids and gases

can be released unexpectedly and with extreme force. High pressure systems should be assembled and operated only by personnel who have been instructed in proper safety practices.

This instrument is not to be operated in any other manner than that specified by the manufacturer.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose, without the express written permission of DH Instruments, a

Fluke Company 4765 East Beautiful Lane, Phoenix AZ 85044-5318, USA.

DH Instruments makes sincere efforts to ensure accuracy and quality of its’ published materials; however, no warranty, expressed

or implied, is provided. DH Instruments disclaims any responsibility or liability for any direct or indirect damages resulting from the use of the information in this manual or products described in it. Mention of any product or brand does not constitute an endorsement by DH Instruments of that product or brand. This manual was originally composed in English and was subsequently translated into other languages. The fidelity of the translation cannot be guaranteed. In case of conflict between the English version and other language versions, the English version predominates.

Products described in this manual are manufactured under international patents and one or more of the following U.S. patents: 5,142,483; 5,257,640; 5,331,838; 5,445,035. Other U.S. and international patents pending.

AutoRange, AutoZ, DH Instruments, DH, DHI, CalTool, COMPASS, RPM4, QDUT, Q-RPT, RPM4 and SDS are trademarks, registered and otherwise, of DH Instruments, a Fluke Company.

Document No. 550129a-03 050815 Printed in the USA.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AABBLLEE

OONNTTEENNTTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...............................................................I

TABLES ..................................................................................V

FIGURES................................................................................VI

ABOUT THIS MANUAL ............................................................VII

1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................. 1

1.1 PRODUCT OVERVIEW ...........................................................................................................................1

1.2 SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................2

1.2.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................................... 2

1.2.2 PRESSURE MEASUREMENT SPECIFICATIONS........................................................................................2

1.2.2.1 QUARTZ REFERENCE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER (Q-RPT) ................................................................2

1.2.2.2 ON-BOARD BAROMETER ........................................................................................................................4

1.2.3 BATTERY AND CHARGER PACK ................................................................................................................5

2. INSTALLATION .................................................................. 7

2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION ............................................................................................................7

2.1.1 REMOVING FROM PACKAGING..................................................................................................................7

2.1.2 INSPECTING CONTENTS.............................................................................................................................7

2.2 SITE REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................................................8

2.3 SETUP .....................................................................................................................................................8

2.3.1 PREPARING FOR OPERATION ...................................................................................................................8

2.3.2 FRONT AND REAR PANELS ........................................................................................................................ 8

2.3.2.1 FRONT PANEL ..........................................................................................................................................8

2.3.2.2 REAR PANEL.............................................................................................................................................9

2.3.3 POWER CONNECTION................................................................................................................................. 9

2.3.3.1 85 TO 264 VAC, 50/60 HZ VAC POWER ..................................................................................................9

2.3.3.2 BATTERY PACK ........................................................................................................................................9

2.3.4 REMOTE [ENT] CONNECTION (FOOTSWITCH OR OTHER SWITCH).................................................... 10

2.3.5 CONNECTING TO MEASURE PRESSURE (TEST(+) AND TEST(-) PORTS)...........................................10

2.3.6 THE VENT OR ATM PORT..........................................................................................................................11

2.3.7 CHECK/SET SECURITY LEVEL .................................................................................................................11

2.3.8 TURN OFF ABSOLUTE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODE (AXXX RPT)....................................................12

2.3.9 SDS FULL TIME OFF ..................................................................................................................................12

2.3.10 PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODE..........................................................................................................12

2.4 POWER-UP AND VERIFICATION.........................................................................................................12

2.4.1 SWITCH POWER ON ..................................................................................................................................12

2.4.2 CHECK PRESSURE MEASUREMENT OPERATION.................................................................................13

2.4.2.1 CHECKING ABSOLUTE MODE PRESSURE MEASUREMENT.............................................................13

2.4.2.2 CHECKING GAUGE MODE PRESSURE MEASUREMENT...................................................................13

2.5 SHORT TERM STORAGE ..................................................................................................................... 14

3. OPERATION..................................................................... 15

3.1 USER INTERFACE ................................................................................................................................15

3.1.1 MAIN RUN SCREEN....................................................................................................................................15

3.1.2 FUNCTION / DATA KEYPAD LAYOUT AND PROTOCOL.........................................................................17

3.1.3 REMOTE [ENT] (ENTER) FOOTSWITCH...................................................................................................18

3.1.4 SOUNDS ......................................................................................................................................................18

3.2 GENERAL OPERATING PRINCIPLES .................................................................................................18

3.2.1 PRESSURE READY/NOT READY ..............................................................................................................18

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.2.2 GAUGE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODES WITH AN AXXX (ABSOLUTE) Q-RPT, DYNAMIC

COMPENSATION FOR ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE ...............................................................................

3.2.3 MULTIPE RANGES (Q-RPTS, AUTORANGE AND INFINITE RANGING) .................................................20

3.2.4 PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODE ..........................................................................................................21

3.2.5 USING RPM4 WITH A PPC3 CONTROLLER/CALIBRATOR.....................................................................21

3.2.6 USE OF THE 12VDC BATTERY/CHARGER PACK ...................................................................................23

3.2.7 SDS SELF DEFENSE SYSTEM ..................................................................................................................24

3.2.8 DIRECT FUNCTION KEYS SUMMARY ......................................................................................................25

3.3 DIRECT FUNCTION KEYS ....................................................................................................................25

3.3.1 [RANGE] ......................................................................................................................................................25

3.3.2 [UNIT]........................................................................................................................................................... 26

3.3.3 [MODE] ........................................................................................................................................................27

3.3.3.1 DIFFERENTIAL MEASUREMENT MODE OPERATION.........................................................................29

3.3.4 [AUTORANGE] ............................................................................................................................................30

3.3.5 [LEAK CK] ...................................................................................................................................................33

3.3.6 [DISPLAY]....................................................................................................................................................34

3.3.6.1 AVG (AVERAGE) .....................................................................................................................................36

3.3.6.2 RATE........................................................................................................................................................37

3.3.6.3 DEV (DEVIATION) ...................................................................................................................................38

3.3.6.4 RPT ..........................................................................................................................................................39

3.3.6.5 HI/LO ........................................................................................................................................................40

3.3.6.6 FREEZE ...................................................................................................................................................41

3.3.6.7 CLEAN .....................................................................................................................................................41

3.3.7 [HEAD] .........................................................................................................................................................42

3.3.8 [SDS] (SELF DEFENSE SYSTEM) .............................................................................................................43

3.3.8.1 SDS IN DIFFERENTIAL AND PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODES....................................................46

3.3.9 [AUTOZ]....................................................................................................................................................... 46

3.3.9.1 [AUTOZ] IN GAUGE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODE ...........................................................................47

3.3.9.2 [AUTOZ] IN ABSOLUTE MODE...............................................................................................................48

3.3.9.3 AUTOZ IN DIFFERENTIAL MODE .......................................................................................................... 51

3.3.10 [ENT] (RUN AUTOTEST).............................................................................................................................51

3.4 [SETUP] .................................................................................................................................................52

3.4.1 <1RANGE> ..................................................................................................................................................52

3.4.1.1 SAVING AN AUTORANGE RANGE ........................................................................................................ 52

3.4.1.2 DELETING AUTORANGE RANGES........................................................................................................53

3.4.2 <2RES> (RESOLUTION) .............................................................................................................................53

3.4.3 <3STAB>......................................................................................................................................................54

3.4.4 <4UL> (UPPER LIMIT) ................................................................................................................................55

3.4.4.1 OVER PRESSURE FUNCTION...............................................................................................................57

3.4.5 <5ATEST>....................................................................................................................................................57

3.5 [SPECIAL] .............................................................................................................................................57

3.5.1 <1AUTOZ> ...................................................................................................................................................58

3.5.1.1 EDIT AUTOZ ............................................................................................................................................62

3.5.2 <2REMOTE> ................................................................................................................................................62

3.5.2.1 <1COM1, 2COM2>...................................................................................................................................63

3.5.2.2 <3IEEE-488>............................................................................................................................................63

3.5.2.3 <4FORMAT> ............................................................................................................................................63

3.5.2.4 <5RS232 SELF-TEST>............................................................................................................................64

3.5.3 <3HEAD> .....................................................................................................................................................64

3.5.4 <4SDS>........................................................................................................................................................65

3.5.4.1 <1TEMP OPEN/CLOSE>.........................................................................................................................65

3.5.4.2 <2FULL TIME ON/OFF> ..........................................................................................................................66

3.5.5 <5PREFS> ...................................................................................................................................................66

3.5.5.1 <1SCRSVR> ............................................................................................................................................67

3.5.5.2 <2SOUND> ..............................................................................................................................................67

3.5.5.3 <3TIME>...................................................................................................................................................67

3.5.5.4 <4ID>........................................................................................................................................................68

3.5.5.5 <5LEVEL> (SECURITY)...........................................................................................................................68

3.5.6 <6PUNIT>.....................................................................................................................................................71

3.5.7 <7INTERNAL> .............................................................................................................................................73

3.5.7.1 <1BARO> .................................................................................................................................................73

3.5.7.2 <2READRT> ............................................................................................................................................74

3.5.7.3 <3RPT2X>................................................................................................................................................75

3.5.7.4 <4LO VNT> ..............................................................................................................................................76

3.5.7.5 <5LOG>....................................................................................................................................................77

3.5.8 <8CAL> ........................................................................................................................................................77

3.5.9 <9RESET> ...................................................................................................................................................78

3.5.9.1 <1SETS>..................................................................................................................................................78

3.5.9.2 <2 UNITS> ...............................................................................................................................................79

3.5.9.3 <3ATEST>................................................................................................................................................79

3.5.9.4 <4 CAL> ...................................................................................................................................................79

3.5.9.5 <5 ALL>....................................................................................................................................................80

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4. REMOTE OPERATION ....................................................... 81

4.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................................81

4.2 INTERFACING .......................................................................................................................................81

4.2.1 RS232 INTERFACE .....................................................................................................................................81

4.2.1.1 COM1 .......................................................................................................................................................81

4.2.1.2 IEEE-488 ..................................................................................................................................................82

4.2.1.3 COM2 .......................................................................................................................................................82

4.3 PROGRAMMING FORMATS................................................................................................................. 82

4.3.1 CLASSIC PROGRAM MESSAGE FORMAT ............................................................................................... 83

4.3.2 ENHANCED PROGRAM MESSAGE FORMAT ..........................................................................................83

4.3.2.1 USING COMMAND TYPE COMMANDS .................................................................................................83

4.3.2.2 USIN G Q UE RY TYPE COMMANDS ...................................................................................................84

4.4 COMMANDS ..........................................................................................................................................85

4.4.1 PROGRAMMING MESSAGES ....................................................................................................................85

4.4.2 ERROR MESSAGESS.................................................................................................................................86

4.4.3 PROGRAM MESSAGE DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW..................................................................................87

4.4.4 PROGRAM MESSAGE DESCRIPTIONS....................................................................................................88

4.5 STATUS REPORTING SYSTEM .........................................................................................................108

4.5.1 ERROR QUEUE......................................................................................................................................... 108

4.5.2 STATUS BYTE REGISTER ....................................................................................................................... 108

4.5.3 STANDARD EVENT REGISTER ...............................................................................................................110

4.5.4 READY STATUS REGISTER .................................................................................................................... 110

4.6 IEEE STD. 488.2 COMMON AND STATUS PROGRAM MESSAGES................................................ 111

4.6.1 PROGRAM MESSAGE DESCRIPTIONS..................................................................................................112

5. MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENTS AND CALIBRATION ................115

5.1 OVERVIEW ..........................................................................................................................................115

5.2 CALIBRATION OF QUARTZ REFERENCE PRESSURE TRANSDUCERS (Q-RPTS) ...................... 115

5.2.1 PRINCIPLE ................................................................................................................................................115

5.2.1.1 PA AND PM COEFFICIENTS ................................................................................................................116

5.2.1.2 AS RECEIVED AND AS LEFT DATA ....................................................................................................116

5.2.2 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED .......................................................................................................................... 117

5.2.2.1 GAS OPERATED Q-RPTS, A10M AND LOWER ..................................................................................117

5.2.2.2 OIL OR GAS OPERATED Q-RPTS A14M AND HIGHER .....................................................................117

5.2.3 SET-UP AND PREPARATION...................................................................................................................118

5.2.4 RECOMMENDED CALIBRATION POINT SEQUENCE............................................................................119

5.2.4.1 STANDARD CLASS Q-RPTS ................................................................................................................119

5.2.4.2 PREMIUM CLASS Q-RPTS ...................................................................................................................120

5.2.5 TURNING OFF ABSOLUTE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE M E ASU R E M E N T MODES F O R AXXX

5.2.6 Q-RPT CALIBRATION USING CALTOOL FOR RPTS SOFTWARE........................................................ 122

5.2.7 EDITING AND VIEWING Q-RPT CALIBRATION INFORMATION............................................................122

5.2.8 Q-RPT CALIBRATION/ADJUSTMENT WITHOUT CALTOOL FOR RPTS SOFTWARE.........................124

5.3 ADJUSTMENT OF ON-BOARD BAROMETER...................................................................................125

5.4 RELOADING EMBEDDED SOFTWARE INTO FLASH MEMORY......................................................126

5.5 SUBASSEMBLY DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION ............................................................................127

5.5.1 MINI MICRO BOARD................................................................................................................................. 127

5.5.2 POWER SUPPLY MODULE ......................................................................................................................127

5.5.3 DRIVER BOARD........................................................................................................................................128

5.5.4 ON-BOARD BAROMETER........................................................................................................................128

5.5.5 Q-RPT MODULE........................................................................................................................................128

5.5.5.1 HI Q-RPT MODULE ...............................................................................................................................128

5.5.5.2 LO Q-RPT MODULE ..............................................................................................................................128

5.5.6 DISPLAY ....................................................................................................................................................128

5.6 Q-RPT MODULE PNEUMATIC SCHEMATICS ................................................................................... 129

(AB S O L UTE) Q - R P T S .........................................................................................................................

122

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

6. TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................131

7. APPENDIX ......................................................................135

7.1 REMOTE [ENT] ...................................................................................................................................135

7.2 UNIT CONVERSION ............................................................................................................................ 136

7.2.1 PRESSURE................................................................................................................................................136

8. WARRANTY ....................................................................137

8.1 OVERVIEW ..........................................................................................................................................137

9. GLOSSARY.....................................................................139

TABLES & FIGURES

AABBLLEES

Table 1. Reference Pressure Transducer (Q-RPT) Module Designations and Ranges .............................3

Table 2. RPM4 Packing List......................................................................................................................... 7

Table 3. Position Designators of Q-RPTs in an RPM4 System................................................................. 20

Table 4. Settings and What They Are Specific To (Range, Measurement Mode, Q-RPT, System) ......... 21

Table 5. Summary of RPM4 Function Key Operation................................................................................ 25

Table 6. Settings Made by AutoRange ...................................................................................................... 31

Table 7. AutoZ ON and OFF...................................................................................................................... 60

Table 8. Security Levels............................................................................................................................. 70

Table 9. UNIT Function - Available Units of Measure................................................................................ 72

Table 10. READRT - Display Update Rates .............................................................................................. 74

Table 11. Reset – Sets............................................................................................................................... 79

Table 12. Reset – Cal ................................................................................................................................80

Table 13. Reset – All.................................................................................................................................. 80

Table 14. COM1 Pin Designations and Connections ................................................................................ 81

Table 15. COM2 DB-9F Pin Designations ................................................................................................. 82

Table 16. Program Message List ............................................................................................................... 85

Table 17. Error #s and Descriptions .......................................................................................................... 86

Table 18. 8 Bit Status Byte Register ........................................................................................................ 108

Table 19. 8 Bit Standard Event Register.................................................................................................. 110

Table 20. 8 Bit Ready Status Register..................................................................................................... 110

Table 21. Program Message List ............................................................................................................. 111

Table 22. Calibration Point Sequence, Standard Class, Axxx and Gxxx Q-RPTs .................................. 119

Table 23. Calibration Point Sequence, Standard Class, BGxxx Q-RPTs................................................ 120

Table 24. Calibration Point Sequence, Standard Class, BA100K Q-RPT............................................... 120

Table 25. Calibration Point Sequence, Premium Class, Axxx and Gxxx Q-RPTs .................................. 121

Table 26. Calibration Point Sequence, Premium Class, BGxxx Q-RPTs................................................ 121

Table 27. Troubleshooting Guide............................................................................................................. 131

Table 28. Pressure Unit of Measure Conversion Coefficients................................................................. 136

Table 29. DHI Authorized Service Providers ........................................................................................... 137

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

IIGGUURREES

Figure 1. Front Panel ...................................................................................................................................8

Figure 2. Rear Panel.................................................................................................................................... 9

Figure 3. MAIN RUN Screen Display Fields .............................................................................................. 16

Figure 4. Keypad Layout............................................................................................................................ 17

Figure 5. Battery Pack/Charger ................................................................................................................. 23

Figure 6. Status Register Schematic .......................................................................................................109

Figure 7. Internal View ............................................................................................................................. 127

Figure 8. Pneumatic/hydraulic schematics of RPM4 with Single Q-RPT Module ................................... 129

Figure 9. Pneumatic/hydraulic schematics of RPM4 with Two Q-RPT Modules..................................... 130

Figure 10. Remote [ENT] Connector Schematic .....................................................................................135

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

BBOOUUTT

This manual is intended to provide the user with the basic information necessary to operate an RPM4 reference pressure monitor. It also includes a great deal of additional information provided to allow you to optimize RPM4 use and take full advantage of its many features and functions.

RPM4-AD is a special air data configuration of RPM4 which has its own dedicated manual, p/n

550148. This manual is for all other configurations of RPM4. If your are using an RPM4-AD (“-AD” in front panel configuration window) use the RPM4-AD Operation and Maintenance Manual p/n 550148.

Before using the manual, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Table of Contents structure: Sections 1, 2 and 3 should be read by all first time RPM4 users. Section 3 is most important for those using the local front panel interface but should be read over by all users to familiarize themselves with general RPM4 operating principles. Section 4 is for remote operation from an external computer. Section 5 provides maintenance and calibration information. Section 6 is a quick troubleshooting guide. Use it to troubleshoot unexpected RPM4 behavior based on the symptom of that behavior. Certain words and expressions have specific meaning as they pertain to RPM4. The Glossary, Section 6, is useful as a quick reference for exact definition of specific words and expressions as they are used in the manual.

For those of you who “don’t read manuals”, go directly to Section 2.3 to set up your RPM4 and then

go to Section 2.4 for power-up and verification. This will get you up and running quickly with a minimal risk of causing damage to yourself or your new RPM4. THEN… when you have questions or start to wonder about all the great features you might be missing, get into the manual!

HHIISS

AANNUUAAL

Manual Conventions

(CAUTION) is used in throughout the manual to identify user warnings and cautions.

(NOTE) is used throughout the manual to identify operating and applications advice and

additional explanations.

[ ] indicates direct function keys (e.g., [RANGE]).

< > indicates RPM4 screen displays (e.g., <1yes>).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

OOTTEES

1. INTRODUCTION

11..

NNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOON

1.1 PRODUCT OVERVIEW

RPM4 is a stand-alone, microprocessor driven, reference pressure monitor intended to precisely measure gas or liquid pressure in a wide variety of pressure calibration, measurement and testing applications. It has been designed to provide very high performance and extensive features combined with maximum versatility and ease of use.

RPM4 uses one or two quartz reference pressure transducer (Q-RPT) modules and, in some cases a barometer, to measure pressure.

RPM4 can be controlled locally by the operator using its front panel display and keypad or remotely by a computer using ASCII character command strings transmitted over its standard RS232 or IEEE-488.2 interface.

RPM4 models are available in ranges from as low as - 3 to 3 kPa (0.4 psi) to as high as 280 MPa (40 000 psi) in absolute, gauge, compound gauge and differential measurement modes.

RPM4 can be integrated into a PPC3 Pressure Controller/Calibrator System to serve the PPC3’s external pressure measuring reference (see the PPC3 Operation and Maintenance Manual).

A special configuration of RPM4 designated RPM4-AD is available for air date (altitude and

airspeed) applications. The RPM4-AD model has its own specific manual p/n 550148.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

1.2 SPECIFICATIONS

1.2.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Power Requirements

Operating Temperature Range

Storage Temperature Range

Vibration

Ventilation

Weight

Dimensions

Microprocessors

Communication Ports

Fuses

Pressure Ranges

Operating Medium

Pressure Connections Q-RPTs up to A70M Q-RPTs > A70M

Self Defense System (SDS™)

Pressure Limits

CE Mark

85 to 264 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 25 VA max consumption and 12VDC, 1.2 A

15 to 35 °C

- 20 to 70 °C Meets MIL-T-28800D

To prevent product overheating, provide proper ventilation. Allow 10 cm (4 in.) clearance from rear panel cooling fan.

5 kg (11 lb) approx. (varies slightly with number and type of Q-RPT modules) 10 cm H x 22.7 cm W x 24 cm D (3.9 in. x 9.3 in. x 9.5 in.) Motorola 68302, 16 MHz RS232 (COM1, COM2), IEEE-488.2 1 A, 250 VAC fuse, 5 x 20 mm, time lag type fuse Internal power supply fuse not replaceable by operator: 2.5A, 250 VAC One or two independent quartz reference pressure transducer (Q-RPT)

modules cover vacuum to 280 MPa (40 000 psi) Any clean, dry, non-corrosive gas or liquid. Q-RPTs less than 7 MPa full scale,

gas only

TEST(+): 1/8 in. NPT F DH500 F TEST(-): 1/8 in. NPT F None VENT or ATM: 10-32 UNF (VENT) 10-32 UNF (ATM)

DH500 is a gland and collar type fitting for 6mm (1/4 in.) coned and left

hand threaded tubes equivalent to AE F250C, HIP HF4, etc.

Included on all gas operated Q-RPT modules of A7M or lower. Isolates Q-RPT module TEST(+) port and vents it to atmosphere. SDS is not included with liquid filled Q-RPTs. Maximum Working Pressure: 104 % Q-RPT maximum Maximum Pressure Without Damage: 125 % Q-RPT maximum

Maximum SDS Protection Pressure: 10 MPa (1 500 psi): Without Damage: 13 MPa (2 000 psi)

Available, must be specified

1.2.2 PRESSURE MEASUREMENT SPECIFICATIONS

1.2.2.1 QUARTZ REFERENCE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER (Q-RPT)

RPM4 can be configured with one or two quartz reference pressure transducer (Q-RPT) modules to measure pressure. The type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx, BAxxx) and range of the Q-RPT module(s) determines the RPM4 measurement specifications.

All Q-RPTs whose maximum pressure is over 200 kPa (30 psi) are of the absolute pressure type (Axxx) using an evacuated, permanently sealed reference. Axxx Q-RPTs can measure absolute, gauge and negative gauge pressure. Gauge pressure with an Axxx Q-RPT is defined by offsetting atmospheric pressure and applying dynamic compensation for atmospheric changes using the on-board barometer (see Section 3.2.2). Gxxx (gauge) Q-RPTs can measure positive gauge pressure only. BGxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPTs can measure gauge and negative gauge pressure. See Section 3.3.3 for additional information on absolute, gauge and negative gauge measurement modes.

RPM4s configured with two Q-RPT modules have independent TEST ports and can measure separately. Two Q-RPTs can also be used together to operate in

differential mode (see Section 3.3.3.1) and parallel mode (see Section 3.2.4).

1. INTRODUCTION

Q-RPTs of A10M and lower are available with two different performance

levels, STANDARD class and PREMIUM class. See the product label on the RPM4 rear panel, the Q-RPT module label on the rear panel and/or the product calibration reports to determine the class of the Q-RPT(s) installed in RPM4.

Table 1. Reference Pressure Transducer (Q-RPT) Module Designations and Ranges

SI VERSION US VERSION

Q-RPT

DESIGNATION

A280M-L1 A200M-L1 A140M-L1 A100M-L1 A70M1 A40M1 A20M1 A14M1 A10M1 A7M1 A3.5M1 A2M1 A1.4M1 A700K1 A350K1 A200K1 A160K1 A100K1 BA100K4 G200K2 G100K2

MAXIMUM

RANGE

[kPa]

Absolute

280 000 280 000 40 000 40 000 200 000 200 000 30 000 30 000 140 000 140 000 20 000 20 000 100 000 100 000 15 000 15 000 70 000 70 000 10 000 10 000 40 000 40 000 6 000 6 000 20 000 20 000 3 000 3 000 14 000 14 000 2 000 2 000 10 000 10 000 1 500 1 500 7 000 7 000 1 000 1 000 3 500 3 500 500 500 2 000 2 000 300 300 1 400 1 400 200 200 700 700 100 100 350 250 50 35 200 100 30 15 160 60 23 8 110 10 16 1.5 110 -- 16 --

-- 200 -- 30

-- 100 -- 15

MAXIMUM

RANGE

[kPa]

Gauge

G15K2 -- 15 -- 2.2

BG15K3

1. All AXXXX RPTs support absolute, gauge and compound (negative) gauge modes.

2. All GXXXX RPTs are positive gauge mode only.

3. BG15K is bi-directional gauge from - 15 to + 15 kPa (- 2.2 to + 2.2 psi).

4. BA100K is a barometric range whose low point is 70 kPa absolute (10 psi).

-- ±15 -- ± 2.2

MAXIMUM

RANGE

[psi]

Absolute

MAXIMUM

RANGE

[psi]

Gauge

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Warm Up Time

30 minute temperature stabilization recommended from cold power up.

Resolution

Compensated Temperature Range

Acceleration Affect

To 1 ppm, user adjustable 5 to 35 °C ± 0.008 % /g maximum, worst axis

Allows operation at ± 20° from reference plane without significant effect

Predicted One Year Stability

(all classes and types)

± 0.005% of reading

Q-RPTs UP TO A10M (1500 psi)

Precision

Measurement Uncertainty3

STANDARD CLASS PREMIUM CLASS

± 0.008% of reading or

0.0024% of Q-RPT span, whichever is greater

± 0.01% of reading or 0.0030%

of Q-RPT span, whichever is

greater

± 0.005% of reading, 0.0015%

of AutoRanged span, or

0.0005% of Q-RPT span, whichever is greater

± 0.008 % of reading, 0.0024%

of AutoRanged span, or

0.0007% of Q-RPT span, whichever is greater

Q-RPTs A14M TO A140M (2 000 to 20 000 psi)

Precision

Measurement Uncertainty3

± 0.012% of reading or 0.0036% of Q-RPT span, whichever is

greater ± 0.013% of reading or 0.0039% of Q-RPT span, whichever is

greater

Q-RPTs A200M TO A280M (30 000 to 40 000 psi)

Precision

Measurement Uncertainty3

1. Predicted Q-RPT measurement stability limit (k=2) over one year assuming regular use of AutoZero function. AutoZero occurs automatically in gauge mode whenever vented, by comparison with barometric reference in absolute mode. Absolute mode predicted one year stability without AutoZ is ± (0.005 % Q-RPT span + 0.005 % of reading).

2. Combined linearity, hysteresis, repeatability. Add + 1 Pa (0.00015 psi) in gauge mode with an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT for the resolution and short term stability of the on-board barometer.

3. Maximum deviation of the Q-RPT indication from the true value of applied pressure including precision, predicted one year stability limit, temperature effect and calibration uncertainty, combined and expanded (k=2) following the ISO “Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement.”

4. % of reading value times measured pressure from 100 to 30 % of Q-RPT span. Under 30 % of Q-RPT span, % of reading value times 30 % of Q-RPT span. For example, if the Q-RPT is a Standard A160K, the Measurement Uncertainty in pressure is 0.010% times the measured pressure to 48 kPa (160 kPa span x 30%) and 0.0048 kPa (160 kPa span x 30% x 0.01%) under 48 kPa.

5. % of reading value times measured pressure from 100 to 30 % of AutoRanged span. Under 30% of AutoRanged span, % of reading value times 30% of AutoRanged span. If AutoRanged span is less then 30% of maximum Q-RPT span, % of reading values times measured pressure, or % of reading times 9% of Q-RPT span, whichever is greater. For example, if the Q-RPT is a Premium A160K and AutoRanged span is 160 kPa, the Measurement Uncertainty in pressure is measured pressure x 0.008% to 48 kPa (160 kPa AutoRanged span x 30%) and 0.0038 kPa (160 kPa span x 30% x 0.008%) under 48 kPa. If the AutoRanged span is 100 kPa (greater than 30% of 160 kPa maximum Q-RPT span), the Measurement Uncertainty in pressure is measured pressure x 0.008% to 30 kPa (100 kPa AutoRanged span x 30%) and 0.0025 kPa (100 kPa span x 30% x 0.008%) under 30 kPa. If the AutoRanged span is 30 kPa (less than 30% of the 160 kPa maximum Q-RPT span), the Measurement Uncertainty in pressure is measured pressure x 0.008% to 14.4 kPa (160 kPa maximum Q-RPT span x 9%) and 0.0012 kPa (160 kPa maximum Q-RPT span x 9% x 0.008%) under 14.4 kPa.

± 0.015% of reading or 0.0045% of Q-RPT span, whichever is

greater ± 0.018% of reading or 0.0054% of Q-RPT span, whichever is

greater

1.2.2.2 ON-BOARD BAROMETER

The on-board barometer is used only to measure changes in atmospheric pressure to provide dynamic compensation of the Q-RPT’s atmospheric pressure offset when using an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT to make gauge pressure measurements and for line pressure compensation of G15K and BG15K Q-RPTs.

There is no on-board barometer in RPM4s that have G100K or G200K

Q-RPTs only”.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.2.3 BATTERY AND CHARGER PACK

Power Requirements

Operating Temperature Range

Storage Temperature Range

Vibration

Weight

Dimensions

Battery Type

Battery Voltage

Battery Capacity

Charge Time

Approx. Run Time, Full Charge

100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 15 W max consumption

0 to 50 °C

- 20 to 50 °C

Meets MIL-T-28800D

2 kg (4.4 lb)

8 cm H x 22.5 cm W x 20 cm D (3.1 in. x 8.9 in. x 7.9 in.)

Nickel Metal-Hydride

12 VDC

Typical: 9000 mAh Min: 8200 mAh

Full charge from empty, 14 to 16 hours approx.

8 to 12 hours

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

OOTTEES

2. INSTALLATION

22..

NNSSTTAALLLLAATTIIOON

2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

2.1.1 REMOVING FROM PACKAGING

RPM4 is delivered in a corrugated container with polyethylene inserts to hold it in place; or in the optional molded, medium density polyethylene shipping case with a custom foam insert for holding the RPM4.

Remove the RPM4 and its accessories from the shipping container and remove each element from its protective plastic bag.

2.1.2 INSPECTING CONTENTS

Check that all items are present and have no visible damage.

A standard RPM4 includes all items indicated in Table 2.

Table 2. RPM4 Packing List

DESCRIPTION PART #

1 ea. RPM4 Reference Pressure Monitor FAM008

1 ea. Calibration Report 550100

ACCESSORIES: 401967 (401967-CE)

1 ea. Operation and Maintenance Manual 550129

1 ea. Power Cord (7.5 ft.) 100770 (100770-CE)

1 ea. Ferrite sleeve (snap on to COM2 cable for CE) 103303

1 ea. General Accessories Disk (white CD) 102987

OPTIONAL BATTERY/CHARGER PACK 401904 (401904-CE)

1 ea. Battery/charger pack 401980

1 ea. Battery/charger pack to RPM4 cable 401979

1 ea. Power Cord (7.5 ft.) 100770 (100770-CE)

1 ea. Instruction Sheet 560062

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

2.2 SITE REQUIREMENTS

Install RPM4 on a flat, stable surface at a convenient height. The front feet can be extended so that the unit can be inclined for easier viewing. The RPM4 can also be mounted in a standard 19 in. rack mount using the optional rack mount kit.

2.3 SETUP

2.3.1 PREPARING FOR OPERATION

To prepare RPM4 for check out and operation:

Remove the plastic caps from the RPM4 rear panel pressure connections.

Remove the protective plastic sheet from the front panel display.

Familiarize yourself briefly with the front and rear panels (see Section 2.3.2).

2.3.2 FRONT AND REAR PANELS

2.3.2.1 FRONT PANEL

1. Ready/Not Ready Indicator

2. Display

3. Remote Activity Indicator

Figure 1. Front Panel

4. Cursor Control Keys

5. Multi-Function Keypad

2. INSTALLATION

2.3.2.2 REAR PANEL

1. 12VDC Power Supply Connection

2. Remote [ENT] Connector

3. IEEE-488 Connector

4. COM2 Connector

5. COM1 Connector

6. Power Switch

7. Fuse

8. Electrical Power Connector (IEC-320-C13)

9. Fan

10. TEST(+) Pressure Port, Lo Q-RPT (if Lo Q-RPT present)

11. TEST(-) Pressure Port, Lo Q-RPT (if Lo-QRPT present, <A100M only)

12. TEST(+) Pressure Port, Hi Q-RPT

13. TEST(-) Pressure Port, Hi Q-RPT (<A100M only)

14. VENT (<A10M>) or ATM (> Pressure Port, Lo Q-RPT

15. VENT or ATM Pressure Port, Hi Q-RPT

16. Product Label (bottom of case)

A10M)

Figure 2. Rear Panel

2.3.3 POWER CONNECTION

2.3.3.1 85 TO 264 VAC, 50/60 HZ VAC POWER

Check that the RPM4 power switch is OFF.

Connect the supplied power cable to the rear panel power module.

Connect the other end of the power cable to an electrical supply of 85 to 264 VAC,

50/60 Hz.

2.3.3.2 BATTERY PACK

Charge the battery pack fully (see Section 3.2.6).

Connect the RPM4 12VDC power connection on the rear panel of the RPM4

to the 12 VDC power connection on the battery/charge pack using the cable supplied with the pack.

See Section 3.2.6 for additional information on battery/charger pack

operation and maintenance.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

2.3.4 REMOTE [ENT] CONNECTION (FOOTSWITCH OR OTHER SWITCH)

Connect the optional remote ENTER footswitch, if available or a user supplied switch fitted to the optional cable (see Section 7.1). Connect the cable to the RPM4 rear panel connection labeled REMOTE ENTER. Activating the switch is equivalent to pressing the [ENT] key on the front panel (see Section 3.1.3).

2.3.5 CONNECTING TO MEASURE PRESSURE (TEST(+) AND TEST(-) PORTS)

Using a pressure connecting hose or tube of appropriate pressure rating, connect the device or system to be tested to the RPM4 TEST(+) port.

The RPM4 TEST(+) connection is 1/8 in. NPT female (Q-RPTs of A70M or lower) or DH500 F (Q-RPTs higher than A70M).

DH500 is a gland and collar type fittings for 6.35 mm (1/4 in.) coned and left hand

threaded tubes. DH500 is equivalent to AE F250C, HIP HF4, etc.

The TEST(+) and TEST(-) ports on Q-RPT modules of A70M and lower are threaded into

the aluminum Q-RPT manifold. Take care in making and breaking fittings not to cross thread or otherwise damage the threads. It is recommended that an adaptor be installed in the in Q-RPT manifold and make break operations be made on the adaptor rather than the manifold.

SDS Self Defense System: Q-RPT modules designated A7M or lower include the SDS Self

Defense System. SDS, operated properly, allows a the Q-RPT TEST(+) port to be left connected to a pressure up to 10 MPa (1 500 psi) without damage to the Q-RPT. Do NOT attempt to use SDS in this manner without first becoming thoroughly familiar with its operation and limitations (see Sections 3.2.7, 3.3.8, 3.5.4).

Q-RPT MODULE TEST(+) AND TEST(-) PORTS

Q-RPT modules of A70M and lower have both TEST(+) and TEST(-) ports. Q-RPT modules greater than A70M have a TEST(+) port only. See Section 5.6, Figure 8 for RPM4 Q-RPT module TEST port configurations.

The TEST(+) port is connected to Axxx (absolute) Q-RPTs’ sole measurement port and to the high side of Gxxx or BGxxx (gauge or bi-directional gauge) Q-RPTs.

The TEST(-) port of Axxx and BGxxx Q-RPTs is connected to RPM4’s internal barometer. The TEST(-) is connected to the low side of Gxxx (gauge) or Gxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPTs.

• When operating in absolute mode: The TEST(-) port, if present, is left open to

atmosphere.

• When operating in gauge or negative gauge mode with a range greater than 50 kPa

(7.5 psi): The TEST(-) port, if present, is normally left open to atmosphere. A possible

exception is when the device or system under test is in an ambient pressure that may differ significantly from the ambient pressure around the RPM4. For example, if the RPM4 is measuring the pressure applied to DUTs in an environmental chamber, the pressure in the environmental chamber may be different from ambient pressure around the RPM4. In this

2. INSTALLATION

case, connecting a tube from the TEST(-) port to the inside of the chamber may improve measurement results. If the Q-RPT in use is an Axxx Q-RPT, this tube must be left open to the environment so that the pressure inside cannot deviate too far from ambient. When using an Axxx Q-RPT, if this tube is connected to the low or reference side of DUTs, be sure to open it to the local environment as well.

• When operating in gauge or negative gauge mode with a range less than 50 kPa

(7.5 psi): As a general rule, it is preferable to connect the RPM4 TEST(-) port(s) directly to

the low or reference side of the device under test to assure that these are at the same pressure. When using an Axxx Q-RPT, this connection must also be open to atmosphere. When using a Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT, it is preferable that this connection not be open to atmosphere.

Do not connect a pressure supply to the TEST(-) port. The pressure applied to this port

should be maintained at atmospheric pressure (between 70 and 110 kPa (10 and 16 psia)). Exceeding these limits may damage a Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT and/or the RPM4’s on-board barometer.

Using the RPM4 with gas operated Q-RPTs connected to a system with liquid

contaminants without taking proper precautions to purge the system and test line may cause contamination of the RPM4 that will require non-warranty service.

2.3.6 THE VENT OR ATM PORT

RPM4 Q-RPT modules of A7M and lower have a VENT port. The VENT port is connected to the TEST(-) port when SDS is CLOSED (see Section 5.6, Figure 8). For Axxx and BGxxx Q-RPTs,

the RPM4 on-board barometer, is connected to the VENT port when SDS is CLOSED. The VENT port should always be left completely unobstructed and open to atmosphere.

RPM4 Q-RPT modules of A10M and higher have an ATM port. The ATM port is connected to the RPM4 on-board barometer. The ATM port should always be left completely unobstructed and open to atmosphere.

NEVER plug, obstruct or connect a supply pressure to the RPM4 VENT or ATM port. This

may adversely affect GAUGE mode operation and AutoZeroing functions.

2.3.7 CHECK/SET SECURITY LEVEL

RPM4 has a security system based on user levels. By default, the security system is set to “low”, which includes access restriction to internal calibration coefficients, and there is no password required to change the security level. See Section 3.5.5.5 for information on the security level system. As part of the RPM4 startup, determine the security level that is appropriate for the RPM4 and set a password if desired.

RPM4 is delivered with the security level set to “low” to avoid inadvertent altering of critical

internal settings but with access to changing security levels unrestricted. It is recommended that the low security level be maintained at all times and password protection be implemented if control over setting of security levels is desired.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

2.3.8 TURN OFF ABSOLUTE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODE (AXXX RPT)

If your RPM4 has one or two Axxx (absolute) Q-RPTs, it is able to operate in gauge, negative gauge and absolute measurement modes (see Section 3.3.3). If the RPM4 will be used in gauge mode only, the other measurement modes can be turned off so they are no longer accessible. Turning off modes that are not needed can avoid confusion and/or accidental use of the wrong measurement mode. See Section 5.2.5 for complete information on turning off absolute and negative gauge measurement modes.

Turn off absolute and negative gauge mode if desired.

2.3.9 SDS FULL TIME OFF

Gas operated Q-RPT modules of A7M or less, include the SDS Self Defense System (see Section 3.2.7) to shut off the Q-RPT from the TEST(+) port. If this function is not desired, SDS can be turned full time off so that in regular operation, SDS is not present. With SDS full time off, the SDS overpressure protection is still active.

See Section 3.5.4.2 for instructions on turning SDS full time off if desired.

2.3.10 PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODE

If your RPM4 has two Q-RPTs of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx), it supports parallel measurement mode in which both RPTs are used simultaneously to measure a common pressure, statistically reducing uncertainty in the measurement. Parallel measurement creates a new Q-RPT, designated <HL>, which is the combination of the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs. See Section 3.2.4 for complete information on parallel measurement mode.

Turn on parallel measurement mode if desired.

2.4 POWER-UP AND VERIFICATION

2.4.1 SWITCH POWER ON

Actuate the power switch on the RPM4 rear panel (if a 12 VDC power supply is already connected to the 12 VDC connection, RPM4 power is already on). Observe the front panel display as RPM4 initializes, error checks and goes to the MAIN RUN screen (see Section 3.1.1).

RPM4 default power-up condition is Hi Q-RPT active, SDS closed if present.

If the RPM4 fails to reach the MAIN RUN screen, service is required. Record the sequence of operations and displays observed.

If the RPM4 Q-RPT module is equipped with SDS, SDS is CLOSED at power up and the

TEST(+) port is shut off. This causes <SDS CLOSED> to be flash periodically in the main run screen in place of the measured pressure value.

2. INSTALLATION

2.4.2 CHECK PRESSURE MEASUREMENT OPERATION

2.4.2.1 CHECKING ABSOLUTE MODE PRESSURE MEASUREMENT

If the RPM4 has an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT, check that it operates properly in absolute mode.

Make sure that the TEST(+) port is vented to atmosphere.

Use the [RANGE] function key to select the Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT DF range (see Section 3.3.1).

Press the [MODE] function key and select <absolute> mode (see Section 3.3.3). Use [UNIT] to change the pressure unit if desired (see Section 3.3.2).

If SDS is CLOSED (<SDS CLOSED> flashes over the display of pressure on the top line of the display), OPEN SDS. Press [SDS], <2yes> to OPEN SDS (see Section 3.3.8).

Do NOT OPEN SDS with a pressure higher than the maximum pressure of the

Q-RPT applied to the TEST(+) port. Damage to the Q-RPT may result.

Observe the current value of atmospheric pressure. Check that the value agrees with the local value of atmospheric pressure within measurement tolerances (see Section 1.2.2.1) Repeat this process for both Axxx (absolute) Q-RPTs if there are two in the RPM4. . If a Q-RPT does not agree within tolerance, it may need to be AutoZeroed (see Section 3.3.9), calibrated (see Section 5.2) or repaired.

2.4.2.2 CHECKING GAUGE MODE PRESSURE MEASUREMENT

Make sure that the TEST(+) port is open to atmosphere.

Press the [MODE] function key and select <gauge> mode. Use [UNIT] to change the pressure unit if desired (see Section 3.3.2)..

If SDS is CLOSED (<SDS CLOSED> flashes over the display of pressure on the top line of the display), OPEN SDS. Press [SDS], <2yes> to OPEN SDS.

Do NOT OPEN SDS with a pressure higher than the maximum pressure of the

Q-RPT applied to the TEST(+) port. Damage to the Q-RPT may result.

The value indicated should be near zero. It is normal for the Q-RPT to indicate a value other than zero when vented when gauge mode is first entered or the range is changed. Press [AutoZ]. This runs AutoZ to zero the Q-RPT reading (see Section 3.3.9.1). Upon return to the main run screen, observe that the indication of measured pressure has zeroed.

If the display fails to zero properly, RPM4 may need repair.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

2.5 SHORT TERM STORAGE

The following is recommended for short term storage of RPM4:

Vent the RPM4 test port

Switch power OFF.

3. OPERATION

33..

PPEERRAATTIIOON

3.1 USER INTERFACE

RPM4 is designed to offer a balance between simple, straight forward operation and the availability of a wide variety of advanced functions with a high level of operator discretion. The local operator interface is through a 2 x 20 character alphanumeric display, a function/data keypad, a cursor control pad and a

Ready/Not Ready indicator.

Remote communications are by RS232 (COM1) and IEEE-488. See Section 4 for information on remote communication.

3.1.1 MAIN RUN SCREEN

The RPM4 MAIN RUN screen is its home display that is reached on power-up and from which other functions and menus are accessed. It is the very top level of all menu structures.

The MAIN RUN screen is where RPM4 is left in normal operation. It displays the current measured pressure as well as a variety of additional information if desired.

Figure 3 and its legend summarize the RPM4 MAIN RUN screen fields and their functions.

RPM4 has a screen saver function which causes the display to dim if no key is pressed for

10 minutes. Pressing a key restores full power to the display. The screen saver time can be changed or screen saving can be completely suppressed (see Section 3.5.5.1).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

↑

PRESSURE1UNITM hzRR

DDISPLAYFUNCIONnn/nn

DISPLAY FIELD NAME PURPOSE CONTENTS SECTION

1. PRESSURE1 Measured pressure

Displays pressure measured by the active Q-RPT

Numerical pressure value and sign. Intermittently flashes <SDS CLOSED> when the Q-RPT is shut

1.2.2.1

3.2.7

off from the TEST(+) port by SDS.

2. UNIT Unit of measure

Identifies unit of measure in which

Pressure unit abbreviation 3.3.2

pressure values are displayed

3. M Measurement mode

4. h Head pressure indicator

Identifies measurement mode of displayed pressure

Indicates whether a fluid head correction is applied to

<a> absolute <g> gauge or negative gauge <d> differential

<h> the fluid head is not zero <blank> fluid head is zero

3.3.3

3.3.7

PRESSURE1

5. z AutoZero indicator

Indicates whether the AutoZero function

<z> AutoZ is ON <blank> AutoZ is OFF

3.5.1

is ON or OFF for the active Q-RPT and measurement mode

6. RR Active Q-RPT position indicator

Indicates the position of the active Q-RPT in the RPM4

<Hi> Hi Q-RPT <Lo> Lo Q-RPT <HL> Hi and Lo Q-RPTs together in

parallel measurement mode

3.2.3

<Hd> Hi and Lo Q-RPTs together in

differential measurement mode

7. nn/nn Sequence progress indicator

8. DISPLAY

FUNCTION

Information specific to the DISPLAY mode

Indicates progress of ATest sequence, during test execution

Pressure indication depending on current RPM4 DISPLAY function. Leading character identifies

<NN/NN> Number of this point

over total number of points in the sequence

Numerical pressure value

and sign. <PPC3 EXT DEV:> when the RPM4 is initialized as an external device to a PPC3 pressure controller.

3.3.10

3.3.6

the value

9. D Pressure information indicator

Pressure information indicator depending on current RPM4 DISPLAY function.

<σ> Display mode is AVERAGE

and value is standard deviation

<R> Display mode is RATE and

value is pressure rate of

3.3.6

change per second

<H> Display mode is HI/LO and

value is high, then low

<D> Display mode is DEVIATION

and value is difference from current target

<),

,↓ > Display mode is RPT

and value is measurement of inactive RPT

<F> Display mode is FREEZE and

value is last captured reading

Blank, no character Current

display mode is CLEAN

Figure 3. MAIN RUN Screen Display Fields

3. OPERATION

3.1.2 FUNCTION / DATA KEYPAD LAYOUT AND PROTOCOL

The RPM4 has a function/data keypad for local operator access to direct functions, function menus and for data entry.

1. The Function/Data keys allow very commonly used functions to be accessed directly by a single keystroke when pressed from the MAIN RUN screen (see Section 3.1.1). The name of the function is on the bottom half of the key. These keys enter numerical values when editing.

2. The Editing and Execution keys are for starting and suspending command execution, cursor control in menus and editing entries.

3. The Menu/Data keys provide access to function menus when pressed from the MAIN RUN screen. The menu name is on the bottom half of the key. The SETUP menu is for more frequently used functions (see Section 3.4). The SPECIAL menu is for functions that are not generally used as a part of day to day operation (see Section 3.5). These keys enter numerical values when editing.

Figure 4. Keypad Layout

Pressing the [ENT] key generally causes execution or forward movement in the menu tree.

Pressing the [ESC] key moves back in the menu tree and/or causes execution to cease or suspend. Pressing [ESC] repeatedly eventually returns to the MAIN RUN screen and, from there, allows momentary viewing of the RPM4 introduction screen.

Pressing the [+/-] key changes a numerical sign when editing. It also toggles through multiple screens when available and, from some run screens, is a shortcut to a momentary display of active RANGE.

Pressing the [

], [ ], [ ] and [ ] keys allows up, down, reverse and

forward cursor movement when editing data entry or moving in menus.

Some screens go beyond the two lines provided by the display. This is

indicated by a flashing arrow in the second line of the display. Press the cursor control keys to move the cursor to access the lines that are not visible or directly enter the number of the hidden menu choice if you know it.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

↑

3.1.3 REMOTE [ENT] (ENTER) FOOTSWITCH

The optional remote ENTER function is a switch that duplicates the function of the front panel [ENT] key. The remote ENTER function is serviced by a connector on the RPM4 rear panel. An optional footswitch is available to activate remote entry hands free or a different switch may be used. See Section 7.1 for information on remote ENTER switch wiring.

The remote ENTER feature can be particularly convenient when running AutoTests (see Section 3.3.10) in which using a footswitch to [ENT] allows hands free operation. It can also be used, with the FREEZE display function (see Section 3.3.6.6) to capture the activation point of a pressure switch.

3.1.4 SOUNDS

RPM4 is equipped with a variable frequency tone device to provide audible feedback and alarms. The beeper is used for the following indications.

Valid key press

Invalid key press

Leak check completed

Upper or lower limit exceeded

Pmax! (overpressure limit) exceeded

Parallel measurement mode possible disconnection of the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs

AutoTest in/out of tolerance reading

Brief beep. Choice between three frequencies or NO sound is available (see Section 3.5.5.2).

Descending two tone “blurp”

Three two second beeps (see Section 3.3.5).

Intermittent one second beeps (see Section 3.4.4).

Eight second high frequency beep (see Section 3.4.4.1).

Rapid beeps for 8 seconds (3.2.4).

Ascending triad/descending triad (see Section 3.3.10).

3.2 GENERAL OPERATING PRINCIPLES

3.2.1 PRESSURE READY/NOT READY

There is a Ready/Not Ready indication LED on the RPM4 front panel. This indication is

intended to provide the user with a clear and objective indication of when a stable pressure has been achieved. Ready is indicated when the current stability (rate of change) of pressure is less than the stability limit. The user can set the stability limit (see Section 3.4.3). The ready indication is often used when comparing the RPM4 and a test device to indicate when a valid reading can be made.

In RPM4s with two Q-RPTs, the Ready/Not Ready indication always applies to the active

Q-RPT, whose pressure measurement is displayed on the top line of the RPM4 display. When the inactive Q-RPT measurement is displayed on the second line using the RPT display mode, the Ready/Not Ready indication for the inactive RPT is indicated by the

leading character on the line. <)> indicates Ready. <

pressure increasing or pressure decreasing.

> or <↓> indicate Not Ready,

3. OPERATION

The Ready/Not Ready LED indications are: <Green > Pressure Ready The pressure stability is within the stability limit.

In differential measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1), the LED Ready/Not Ready

indication applies to the differential pressures.

In parallel measurement mode (see Section 3.2.4), the LED Ready/Not Ready indication

applies to the average pressure read by the <HL> Q-RPT.

<Red> Pressure Not Ready The pressure stability is NOT within the stability limit.

When RPM4 is being used as an external measurement reference of a PPC3 pressure

controller, the Ready/Not Ready indication is still based on the RPM4 stability and stability limit only. The RPM4’s Ready/Not Ready LED does not indicate whether the PPC3 pressure control is Ready.

3.2.2 GAUGE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODES WITH AN AXXX (ABSOLUTE) Q-RPT, DYNAMIC COMPENSATION FOR ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE

Q-RPTs with the designation Axxx are intrinsically absolute but they are also used for gauge and negative gauge measurement modes (see Section 3.3.3,  PRINCIPLE). Gauge measurement modes are achieved by subtracting the value of atmospheric pressure, P Q-RPT’s absolute reading using AutoZ (see Section 3.2.2). The AutoZ routine that measures

, is run by pressing [AutoZ] whenever RPM4 is in the vented condition. This assures

offset,G

the continuous updating of the P pressure is the measured absolute pressure, P

value corresponding to atmospheric pressure. Gauge

offset,G

, minus the atmospheric offset.

gauge

= Pu - P

offset,G

However, atmospheric pressure may change between opportunities to run AutoZ and update the value of P

, for example when running an extended test without venting. RPM4 uses

offset,G

dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure to correct for changes in atmospheric pressure between opportunities to run AutoZ and update P

is determined, the reading of RPM4’s on board barometer, P

offset,G

Later, when no longer vented, the change in atmospheric pressure, ΔP updated, is the difference between the current barometer reading, P

atm

atm,0

= P

atm

- P

atm,0

atm

reading at the time of AutoZ execution, P

ΔP

Dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure uses ΔP

. When AutoZ runs, and

offset,G

, is also recorded.

atm,0

, since P

atm

, and the barometer

atm

to correct the value of P

thus always compensating real time for changes in atmospheric pressure:

offset,G

, from the

was

offset,G

Gauge pressure measurement on an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT allows instantaneous switching between gauge and absolute measurements modes. The additional uncertainty in gauge pressure mode due to the dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure technique is a function of the resolution and short term stability of the on-board barometer, not its absolute measurement uncertainty. This additional uncertainty is ± 1 Pa (0.00015 psi).

gauge

= Pu - P

offset,G

- ΔP

atm

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.2.3 MULTIPE RANGES (Q-RPTS, AUTORANGE AND INFINITE RANGING)

An RPM4 may have one or two Q-RPTs. Position indication of the currently active Q-RPT is continuously displayed in the upper right hand corner of the MAIN RUN screen and most other screens. See Table 3 for position designation protocol for the Q-RPTs in an RPM4.

Table 3. Position Designators of Q-RPTs in an RPM4 System

Q-RPT POSITION DISPLAY SYMBOL*

Q-RPT with highest maximum pressure, installed in HIGH RPT position

Q-RPT with lower maximum pressure in dual Q-RPT RPM4, installed in LOW RPT position.

Two Q-RPTs being used simultaneously in parallel measurement mode

Hi Q-RPT when used in differential measurement mode

* The display symbol is included in the upper, right hand corner of most RPM4

menu displays as a convenient indicator of the active Q-RPT.

An RPM4 may have multiple ranges. Each RPM4 Q-RPT has a default range which is its maximum span. Additional ranges, lower than the Q-RPT’s maximum span, may also be created using AutoRange (see Section 3.3.4). Ranges created using are AutoRange temporary but may be saved with all their settings for reactivation (see Section 3.4.1).

AN RPM4 range is identified by a range screen showing the Q-RPT used by the range, its current unit of measure and its full scale pressure in gauge and absolute (if available) measurement modes. The range screen is:

See Table 1 for a complete listing of RPM4/RPM4 Q-RPT choices and their default ranges.

1. Q-RPT designator.

2. Type of range. DF for the Q-RPT’s default range; AR for a range created by AutoRange.

3. Q-RPT position designator.

4. Current pressure unit of measure.

5. Full scale pressure in current unit of measure in gauge (<g>) and/or absolute (<a>) measurement mode depending on type of Q-RPT and range.

Active A700K DF Hi psi 100g/100a

The ranges available on an RPM4 system are accessed using [RANGE] (see Section 3.3.1) and/or created using [AutoRange] (see Section 3.3.4).

Most settings made in an RPM4 range, such as unit of measure, measurement mode, display resolution, and stability setting are specific to the range. Settings selected while one range is active apply to that range and not to other ranges. The range specific settings are stored with the range and recalled whenever the range is made active. This makes setting up ranges a convenient way to store and recall frequently used operating configurations. See Table 4 for a listing of RPM4 adjustments and settings and whether they are range, Q-RPT or system specific.

3. OPERATION

Table 4. Settings and What They Are Specific To

(Range, Measurement Mode, Q-RPT, System)

SETTING PURPOSE SPECIFIC TO SECTION

[Unit] Set pressure unit of measure Range 3.3.2

[Mode] Set pressure measurement mode (absolute,

[Display] Set bottom line display function System 3.3.6

[Head] Set fluid head correction height, fluid, unit of

[SDS] Open and close SDS Q-RPT 3.3.8

[AutoZ] Run AutoZ Q-RPT and measurement mode 3.3.9

Resolution Set pressure display resolution Range 3.4.2 Stability Set Ready/Not Ready stability test. Range 3.4.3

Upper Limit Set upper and lower pressure limit alarm Range and measurement mode 3.4.4

AutoZ AutoZ, ON/OFF, set and view values Q-RPT and measurement mode 3.5.1

Screen Saver, Sound, Time, ID, Level

Lo vnt

Cal Various Q-RPT and barometer calibration

gauge, negative gauge)

measure

Set system user preferences System 3.5.5

Set status of TEST(-) vent valve, if present

functions, including turning off absolute and negative gauge modes

Range 3.3.3

System 3.3.7

Q-RPT 3.5.7.4

Q-RPT or barometer 3.5.8

3.2.4 PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODE

RPM4s equipped with two Q-RPT modules of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx) can be set to operate in parallel measurement mode.

Parallel measurement mode is intended to improve measurement reliability and reduce measurement uncertainty by using the measurements of two Q-RPTs together. In parallel measurement mode, the measured pressure is the average of the readings of the two Q-RPTs.

Parallel measurement mode is considered a third Q-RPT designated <HL> (combination of Hi and Lo). Once it has been set up, the HL Q-RPT can be selected using the [RANGE] key and operated with all the features of a Hi or Lo Q-RPT. When setting up parallel measurement, the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs can be suppressed so that only the HL Q-RPT is active. This feature is used when the RPM4 will always be used in HL mode.

Parallel measurement mode is set up using [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <3RPT2x> (see Section 3.5.7.3).

3.2.5 USING RPM4 WITH A PPC3 CONTROLLER/CALIBRATOR

RPM4 can be integrated as a reference pressure measuring device in a PPC3 Pressure Controller/Calibrator System. See the PPC3 Operation and Maintenance Manual for information on setting up RPM4 to operate as the PPC3’s external device.

Before an RPM4 is used with a PPC3, the following settings should be made:

SDS Close SDS on all Q-RPT modules on which SDS is available (see Section 3.2.7).

Head If the RPM4 TEST port is at a different level than the PPC3’s TEST port AND the

RPM4 will be used in absolute measurement mode, set the RPM4 head height to the PPC3’s TEST port level so that RPM4 is corrected to indicate the pressure at the level of the PPC3 TEST port (see Section 3.3.7).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

AutoZ Make sure AutoZ is ON for all RPTs and measurement modes (see Section 3.5.1).

Certain RPM4 settings may be changed when an RPM4 is operated with a PPC3. Settings that may be changed when an RPM4 is used as a PPC3 external device include:

SDS Closed or open status may be changed and SDS full time off will be

overwritten to full time on (see Sections 3.3.8, 3.5.4)

AutoRange range May be rewritten (see Section 3.3.4).

Display When an RPM4 is initialized by PPC3 as an external device, the

second line of the RPM4 display is <PPC3 EXT DEV: IDLE>. When the RPM4 is the active Q-RPT being used by the PPC3, the second line of the RPM4 display is <PPC3 EXT DEV: ACTIVE>

Range Active range may be changed (see Section 3.3.1).

Unit of measure Active unit may be changed (see Section 3.3.2).

Measurement mode Active mode may be changed (see Section 3.3.3).

Lo Vent Setting may be changed (see Section 3.5.7.4).

Communications For a PPC3 to be able to identify and communicate with an RPM4,

the RPM4’s COM1 port must be set to:

Baud rate 9200 to 19200

Parity Even

Data bits 7

Stop bit 1

When RPM4 is activated by a a PPC3, the PPC3 sets the RPM4

COM1 port baud rate to 19200. The COM1 port keeps this setting until power is cycled. Cycling power restores the previous baud rate setting. The same is true for the COM2 of the first RPM4 in a chain of two RPM4s used with a PPC3.

When RPM4 is initialized as an external device to a PPC3 pressure controller, the RPM4

front panel keypad is locked out and the second line of the display becomes:

<PPC3 EXT DEV: IDLE> (if RPM4 is initialized by PPC3 but not currently in use) <PPC3 EXT DEV: ACTIVE> (if RPM4 is initialized by PPC3 and is currently in use)

After using an RPM4 as an external device for a PPC3, cycle power to return to the previous RPM4 settings, restore front keypad capability and return to the normal main run screen.

3. OPERATION

3.2.6 USE OF THE 12VDC BATTERY/CHARGER PACK

An optional 12VDC battery/charger pack is available to supply power to RPM4s 12VDC power connection (see 1.2.3).

The battery/charger pack combines the battery and the battery charger.

To Charge the Battery

The battery may be charged while the battery/charge pack is connected to the RPM4.

To charge the battery, connect the battery/charger pack to a 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz power supply using the supplied power cable and turn on the charger power switch. The green CHARGE indicator light goes on to indicate that battery charging is in progress. Allow 14 to 16 hours for the battery to charge fully. When the battery is fully charged, the CHARGE indicator light flashes.

When the battery charger power switch is in the ON, the battery is connected to the charger, not the 12VDC output. When the battery charger switch is in the OFF position, the CHARGE indicator light goes off, and 12VDC is supplied on the 12VDC connection.

To Use the Battery/Charger Pack to Supply RPM4

After charging the battery, connect the 12VDC connection of the battery/charger pack to the 12VDC connection on the RPM4 rear panel.

Turn the battery/charger pack power switch to OFF (when AC power is connected to the battery/charger pack, the power switch must be OFF for 12VDC power to be output).

When RPM4 is connected to both a 12 VDC source and an AC source,if the RPM4 power switch is OFF, the 12VDC source supplies the RPM4; if the RPM4 power switch is ON, the 12 VDC source is disconnected and the AC source supplies the RPM4.

To Check the Battery Charge Level

To check the current charge level of the battery, press the toggle switch on the battery/charger pack front panel. Observe the BATTERY CHECK indicator lights. All three lights are lit when battery is fully charged. If no light or one light is on, the battery should be recharged.

Figure 5. Battery Pack/Charger

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.2.7 SDS SELF DEFENSE SYSTEM

Q-RPT modules designated 7M or lower that are NOT liquid filled are equipped with the SDS self defense system. The SDS system includes hardware and embedded software to isolate Q-RPTs from overpressure. When SDS is CLOSED for a Q-RPT module, the Q-RPT is isolated from the modules TEST(+) port and opened to the modules VENT port (See Section 5.6, Figure 8).

SDS can be OPENED and CLOSED from the front panel using [SDS]. SDS can also be controlled using functions under [SPECIAL], <4SDS>. The SDS “temp open/close” function allows SDS on both Q-RPTs, whether active or inactive, to be opened and closed directly (see Section 3.5.4.1). The SDS “full time on/off” function allows SDS to be opened permanently so the RPM4 can be operated as if SDS were not installed (see Section 3.5.4.2).

SDS is normally used to isolate an RPM4 Q-RPT from a test system which may sometimes be subjected to pressures higher than the Q-RPTs maximum pressure. When configuring a multi-range system, this can eliminate the need for external valving or connecting and disconnecting RPM4s. For example, two Q-RPTs of different ranges might be connected to a single calibration system. When the Hi Q-RPT is in use, SDS is closed on the Lo Q-RPT to protect it from overpressure. When used in this manner, SDS should be CLOSED prior to applying pressure. Automatic SDS closing in response to overpressure should only be used in an emergency overpressure situation.

SDS also attempts to protect Q-RPTs from accidental overpressure. Whenever RPM4 is powered ON it continuously monitors the pressure read by its Q-RPT(s). If the pressure reaches the maximum pressure limit for a Q-RPT, SDS CLOSES to isolate the Q-RPT from the TEST port and vent it to atmosphere (see Section 3.4.4.1). This is not a fail safe overpressure system. It does not protect against very rapid overpressure or pressure exceeding 10 MPa (1 500 psi).

When an RPM4 is used as an external device to a PPC3 pressure controller, PPC3 controls the

RPM4’s SDS to isolate the RPM4 Q-RPTs from the test pressure when they are not in use. IF the RPM4 SDS is “full time off” PPC3 changes it to “ON”.

The maximum pressure that should be applied to an RPM4 TEST(+) port when SDS is

CLOSED is 10 MPa (1 500 psi).

Though the SDS self defense system includes features to automatically protect Q-RPTs

against accidental overpressure, SDS should NOT be considered a fail-safe overpressure protection system. SDS cannot guarantee that overpressure damage will NOT occur. Conventional measures for overpressure protection should also always be used. Damage to Q-RPTs due to overpressure is NOT covered by the RPM4 product warranty even when SDS is present and ON.

3. OPERATION

3.2.8 DIRECT FUNCTION KEYS SUMMARY

Table 5 provides a brief summary of direct function key operation. It may be useful to keep

a copy of this summary near the RPM4, especially when first becoming acquainted with its operation.

Local operation of RPM4 is through the front panel keypad. To minimize multi-layered menu structures, the keypad numerical keys also provide direct access to the most commonly used functions. The function accessed is labeled on the bottom half of the key. Direct function keys are active whenever RPM4 is in its MAIN RUN screen. Table 5 summarizes the operation of the direct function keys.

Table 5. Summary of RPM4 Function Key Operation

DIRECT FUNCTION KEYS ARE ACTIVE FROM THE MAIN RUN SCREEN

See corresponding manual sections for full detail.

Adjust height of fluid head correction. Set to zero to defeat correction.

.SDS controls the connection of the Q-RPT to the TEST(+) port. Close any open SDS. Open SDS of active Q-RPT if closed.

Run the AutoZ function to AutoZero the active Q-RPT and measurement mode.

Set up and optimize RPM4 features for a specific operating range and measurement mode.

Run automated leak checking routine.

View active range and toggle through available ranges. [ENT] on a range activates it.

Select pressure unit of measure for the active range. Choice of units available in this menu can be customized.

Select the pressure measurement mode for the active range (absolute, gauge, negative gauge, differential).

Menu of less commonly used internal functions and settings.

Menu of commonly used setup features including save/delete AutoRange ranges, set display resolution, set stability limit, set upper/lower, view AutoTest data

Select the display function for the bottom line of the RPM4 display.

3.3 DIRECT FUNCTION KEYS

3.3.1 [RANGE]

 PURPOSE

To view and/or change the active pressure measurement range and associated settings.

 PRINCIPLE

An RPM4 range is defined as a pressure span and associated settings (see Section 3.2.3).

An RPM4 may have multiple ranges. Each Q-RPT in the RPM4 system has a default range which is its maximum span. Additional ranges, lower than the Q-RPT’s maximum span, may also be created using AutoRange (see Section 3.3.4). Ranges created using AutoRange may be saved, with their settings, for reactivation (see Section 3.4.1).

The [RANGE] function key allows the available RPM4 pressure ranges to be viewed and selected.

Start or set functions such as Leak Check, AutoTest and Freeze. ENTER values when editing.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 OPERATION

Pressing the [RANGE] function key activates the range viewing and selecting function. When the [RANGE] function key is first pressed, the active range is displayed. For example:

1. Q-RPT designator.

2. Type of range. DF for the Q-RPT’s default range; AR for a range created by AutoRange.

3. Q-RPT position designator.

4. Current pressure unit of measure.

5. Full scale pressure in current unit of measure in gauge and/or absolute measurement mode depending on type of Q-RPT and range.

Pressing the [+/-] key or the [RANGE] key again while in the RANGE functions toggles through displays of the other available ranges, from lowest range to highest range.

To select a range to become the active range, press [ENT] while the range is displayed.

Pressing [ESC] while in the RANGE function returns to the MAIN RUN screen without making a range change.

Range full scale limits are given in the pressure unit that is currently active for that range.

Active A700K DF Hi psi 100g/100a

Pressing [+/-] from the MAIN RUN screen provides a shortcut to a momentary view of the

active range.

Many RPM4 settings and functions are range specific. See Table 4 for identification of

range specific settings.

For best metrological performance, vent the RPM4 Q-RPT before changing ranges.

3.3.2 [UNIT]

 PURPOSE

To select the unit of measure in which RPM4 displays pressure values.

For information on selecting the measurement mode (absolute, gauge, negative gauge,

differential), see Section 3.3.3.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 allows the unit of measure in which pressure values are displayed to be changed.

RPM4 supports 15 standard pressure units of measure as well as user defined units. To simplify operation, quick access to six units is made available under the [UNIT] key. The default units available depend on whether the RPM4 was originally configured as an SI or US version. The [UNIT] key contents can be customized by the user to any configuration of six units (see Section 3.5.6).

3. OPERATION

Internally, RPM4 always operates in Pascal (Pa), the SI unit of pressure. Values of pressure

are represented in other units by the application of conversion factors to convert from Pa (see Section 7.2.1).

 OPERATION

To change the active pressure unit of measure for a range, press [UNIT] from the MAIN RUN screen while the range is active. The display is:

1kPa 2Pa 3MPa 4hPa 5bar 6mbar

The cursor is on the number corresponding to the active pressure unit of measure for the active range.

To change the pressure unit of measure, select the desired unit. Making the selection returns to the MAIN RUN screen with the selected unit active.

The pressure unit of measure selected is range specific. When in a given range, all functions

and settings are represented in the current measurement unit for that range. However, certain internal and/or metrological functions (e.g., Q-RPT calibration coefficients) are always represented in Pa regardless of the current range unit. When the current unit is an altitude unit, the range and upper limit indications are in kPa if the unit is meters (m) and psi if the unit is feet (ft).

See Section 7.2.1 for tables of the conversion factors used by RPM4.

If the pressure unit selected is inWa (inches of water), the reference temperature for water

density must we specified in a separate menu (choices are 4ºC, 20ºC 60ºF). No reference temperature selection is necessary for the unit mmWa as the only reference temperature commonly used for mmWa is 4 ºC.

The default pressure units of measure available under the UNIT function depend on whether

the RPM4 has been set up as an SI or US version (indicated by SI or US at bottom right of introduction screen). The choice of six units available under the UNIT function can be customized from a wider selection by the user (see Section 3.5.6). The units available under the UNIT function can be reset to default by reset (see Section 3.5.9.2).

3.3.3 [MODE]

 PURPOSE

To set the measurement mode (absolute, gauge, negative gauge or differential) for the active range.

For information on selecting the unit of measure, see Section 3.3.2.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 supports simple, one-step switching between up to four different measurement modes:

Absolute Measures pressure relative to vacuum (zero is hard vacuum). Range is

from zero absolute to full scale.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Gauge Measures pressure relative to atmosphere (zero is ambient pressure).

Range is from zero gauge to full scale, full scale must be greater than zero.

Negative Gauge Measures pressure relative to atmosphere (zero is ambient pressure).

Range is positive and negative from zero, negative to minus one atmosphere and positive to full scale. With a BGxxx RPT, negative range is the negative equivalent of the positive range.

Differential Available only for the Hi Q-RPT in RPM4s equipped with two Q-RPT modules

of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx). Measures the difference between the Hi and the Lo Q-RPT (Differential = Hi – Lo). Differential measurement mode is selected “on top of” the Hi Q-RPT’s base measurement mode (gauge, absolute or differential). Differential range is positive to maximum pressure of the Hi Q-RPT and negative to the minimum pressure of the Lo Q-RPT base measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1 for specific information on operation in differential measurement mode).

Which measurement modes are available depends on the type of Q-RPT type(s) available. There are three types of Q-RPTs:

Axxx Q-RPTs with designators starting with “A” measure pressure relative to a sealed

vacuum reference and are intrinsically absolute. Axxx Q-RPTs support measurement in absolute, gauge and negative gauge modes. Gauge and negative gauge modes are accomplished by offsetting of atmospheric pressure with dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure changes between offsets using an on-board barometer (see Section 3.2.2). Access to absolute and negative gauge operation can be turned OFF (see Section 5.2.5). In RPM4s with two Axxx Q-RPTs, differential measurement mode is supported on the Hi Q-RPT.

Gxxx Q-RPTs with designators starting with “G” measure positive pressure relative to the

TEST(-) port that is connected to atmosphere. Gxxx Q-RPTs support measurement

in gauge mode only. In RPM4s with two Gxxx Q-RPTs, differential measurement mode is supported on the Hi Q-RPT.

BGxxx Q-RPTs with designators starting with “BG” measure positive and negative

pressure relative to the TEST(-) port that is connected to atmosphere. BGxxx Q-RPTs support measurement in gauge and negative gauge modes. In RPM4s with two BGxxx Q-RPTs, differential measurement mode is supported on the Hi Q-RPT.

When changing modes for a range, if the full scale of the range is 700 kPa (100 psi) or greater, the full scale is the same in both absolute and gauge modes. If the full scale is less than 700 kPa (100 psi), the gauge mode full scale is 100 kPa (14.5 psi) lower than the absolute mode full scale. If the absolute mode full scale is less than 100 kPa (14.5 psi), there is no gauge mode available. Gauge and negative gauge modes, when available, always have the same full scale.

Measurement mode selection is range specific.

 OPERATION

See Section 3.3.3.1 for information on differential mode operation. Differential mode

operation is only available for the Hi Q-RPT in RPM4s that are equipped with two Q-RPTs of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx).

To change the active measurement mode for a range, press [MODE] from the MAIN RUN screen while the range is active. The display depends upon the type of Q-RPT that is active.

Measurement mode:

1abs 2gage 3neg gage

3. OPERATION

If an Axxx Q-RPT is active, all thee measurement modes are supported: absolute, gauge and negative gauge. Only gauge is available if absolute and negative gauge modes have been turned OFF in calibration (see Section 5.2.5).

If a Gxxx Q-RPT is active, only gauge measurement mode is supported. When the [MODE] key is pressed, <Gauge RPT, gauge mode only> is displayed.

If the Hi Q-RPT is active in its default range (<DF>), and the RPM4 has two Q-RPTs of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx), differential measurement mode is available in addition to the other modes (see Section 3.3.3.1).

Certain RPM4 settings, including AutoZ ON/OFF (see Section 3.5.1) are range AND measurement

mode specific. See Table 4 for a listing of settings and what they are specific to.

Absolute and negative gauge modes on an Axxx Q-RPT can be turned OFF in the

calibration function (see Section 5.2.5). When absolute and negative gauge mode are turned OFF for an Axxx Q-RPT, only gauge mode can be activated. <Gauge mode only, other modes OFF> is displayed when [MODE] is pressed.

3.3.3.1 DIFFERENTIAL MEASUREMENT MODE OPERATION

Differential mode operation is only available on the Hi Q-RPT, default

(<DF>) range, in RPM4s that are equipped with two Q-RPTs (Hi and Lo) of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx).

To activate differential measurement mode, press [MODE] from the MAIN RUN screen while the Hi Q-RPT is active and in its default (<DF>) range. The actual display depends upon the measurement modes available on the Hi Q-RPT.

The cursor is on the base measurement mode. The line pressure measurement mode is the base pressure measurement mode.

To activate differential measurement mode, press the keypad number key for the <dif> selection or move the cursor to the <dif> selection and press [ENT]. Operation returns to the main run screen. When differential mode is active, the cursor is on both the base mode and differential mode.

When differential mode is active, the Q-RPT position indicator is in the upper

right hand corner of the main run screen and other displays is <Hd> instead of <Hi> (see Section 3.2.3, Table 3).

Meas mode: 1abs

2gage 3neg gage 4dif

When differential mode is activated, AutoZ should be run at the line pressure

with zero differential pressure applied to eliminate the zero error on differential pressure due to the disagreement of the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs (see Section 3.3.9.3).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

The following operating conditions are specific to differential mode:

Main run screen measured pressure display

Default DISPLAY function The default display function is RPT with the Lo Q-RPT

SDS function [SDS] key operation to OPEN SDS opens SDS of

AutoZ function AutoZ manages zeroing of differential mode and is

The display of measured pressure in the main run screen is the difference between the Hi and the Lo Q-RPTs (Hi – Lo) with a differential mode AutoZ correction (see Section 3.3.9.3). The pressure measurement mode indicator is <d>. The Q-RPT position indicator is <Hd>.

displayed on the bottom display line (see Section

3.3.6.4). This allows the line pressure (Lo Q-RPT indication) to be viewed simultaneously with the differential pressure. All other DISPLAY functions (average, rate, deviation, HiLo, freeze) apply to the differential pressure

both the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs simultaneously. (see Section 3.3.8). Overpressure is driven by the pressure range of the Lo Q-RPT (see Section 3.4.4.1).

intended to “tare” the two Q-RPTs at a common line pressure (see Section 3.3.9.3). Switch to a mode other than differential for AutoZ functions of an individual Q-RPT.

Leak Check function The leak check function uses the differential mode

Head function The head function applies to the differential

AutoRange function Differential measurement mode is not available in

UL function The UL limits apply to positive and negative

AutoTest function The AutoTest function (see Section 3.3.10) is not

3.3.4 [AUTORANGE]

 PURPOSE

measurement (see Section 3.3.5).

pressure (see Section 3.3.7).

AutoRange (see Section 3.3.4).

differential pressure (see Section 3.4.4) and the default is the maximum value of the differential pressure. Both the Lo and Hi RPT base measurement mode ULs also remain active. The Hi RPT UL provides a upper limit for the maximum pressure on the Hi side of the differential pressure. Both the differential and base mode Hi RPT UL cause the display of differential pressure to flash when exceeded. The Lo RPT UL provides an upper limit for the line pressure.

available in differential measurement mode.

To automatically set up RPM4 to optimize its measurement characteristics and features for specific, user specified range of operation.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 is designed to support the calibration and test of a very wide variety of test ranges in various measurement modes.

3. OPERATION

The AutoRange function simplifies the task of selecting the Q-RPT best suited to cover a specific test range and setting measurement parameters appropriately for the range. These are set automatically based on operator entry of desired measurement mode, pressure unit of measure and range full scale. The selections and settings made by AutoRange are summarized in Table 6.

A range set up using AutoRange and all its range specific settings, may be saved for recall using [SETUP], <1range> (see Section 3.4.1). Saved ranges are available for later selection using [RANGE] (see Section 3.3.1). If a range created by AutoRange is not saved, it is overwritten by the next AutoRange or erased when another range is selected.

Press [ENT] from the main run screen in RATE mode to use the [AutoTest] function to

AutoRange RPM4 based on DUT tolerance (see Section 3.3.10).

Table 6. Settings Made by AutoRange

SETTING/SELECTION PURPOSE SET TO SECTION

Unit Set pressure unit of measure Operator specified during

Mode Set pressure measurement mode

Full scale Establish span maximum Operator specified during

AutoRange span Basis of span based setting

Q-RPT Select most appropriate Q-RPT

Upper limit Lower limit

Resolution Set display resolution 10 ppm of AutoRange span or

Stability Limit Set Ready/Not Ready stability

Q-RPT turn down

(Premium class Q-RPTs only)

(absolute, gauge, negative gauge)

calculations

to cover range and mode.

Set maximum and minimum pressure alarm limits.

criterion.

Turn down Q-RPT characterization to improve measurement uncertainty when span is reduced

AutoRange

Operator specified during AutoRange

AutoRange

Absolute mode: Zero absolute to AutoRange full scale

Gauge mode: Zero gauge to AutoRange full scale

Negative gauge mode: Minus atmosphere to AutoRange full scale (negative equivalent of full scale on BG15K Q-RPT).

Absolute and negative gauge mode: Axxx Q-PRT with lowest

default full scale that is greater than the AutoRange full scale

Gauge mode: Q-RPT with lowest span whose full scale is greater than AutoRange full scale, Gxxx over Axxx if spans are equal.

Upper limit: 105 % of operator entered full scale pressure

Lower limit: None in absolute and gauge modes. Minus atmosphere in negative gauge mode, minus equivalent of upper limit in negative gauge mode on a BG15K Q-RPT. Minus 66 kPa (9.6 psi) with BA100K.

1 ppm of default Q-RPT span, whichever is larger.

50 ppm of AutoRange span or 2 ppm of default Q-RPT span, whichever is larger.

See RPM4 pressure measurement specifications

3.3.2

3.3.3

None

1.2.2.1

3.4.4

3.4.2

3.4.3,

3.3.4

1.2.2.1

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 OPERATION

To use the AutoRange function, press [AutoRange] and respond to the RPM4’s prompts.

Select AutoRange measurement mode: The screen is identical in appearance and

function to the [MODE] screen (see Section 3.3.3). The choice of measurement modes offered reflects all the Q-RPT types available (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx) in the RPM4 system, not just the active Q-RPT.

Differential pressure measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1) is not available in

AutoRange.

Select pressure unit of measure: The screen is identical in appearance and function

to the [UNIT] screen (see Section 3.3.2).

Altitude units of measure (m, ft) are not available for AutoRange.

Enter the AutoRange full scale pressure: Enter the full scale pressure value in the

<------> entry field and press [ENT]. If the full scale value entered cannot be covered by

any of the Q-RPTs available, an error message appears. If the full scale value can be covered, AutoRange proceeds to the range display.

View proposed AutoRange range: The proposed AutoRange range screen is:

1. Indication that this is a screen of the proposed AutoRange range.

2. Designator and position of the Q-RPT that AutoRange has selected

to cover the AutoRange full scale and measurement mode.

3. Pressure unit of measure specified in AutoRange.

4. AutoRange full scale pressure in gauge mode and absolute

mode if available. Absolute mode only if AutoRange measurement mode is absolute and full scale is less than 100 kPa (14.5 psi). Gauge mode only if the Q-RPT is a Gxxx or BGxxx or an Axxx with absolute mode turned off.

AutoRange A700K Hi kPa 300g/100a

If the RPM4 has two Q-RPTs and you would like to select the other one for the

AutoRange, the cursor control keys may be used to toggle between Q-RPTs selections if both Q-RPTs can handle the specified AutoRange.

Accept proposed AutoRange: To accept the proposed AutoRange and go to the MAIN

RUN screen with the AutoRange range active, press [ENT] or [AutoRange]. To modify the AutoRange full scale, measurement mode or pressure unit of measure, use [ESC] to back through the AutoRange screens and make changes.

To verify or confirm the range from the MAIN RUN screen, use [+/-] or [RANGE] to

view the active range (see Section 3.3.1).

See Table 6 for a listing of all selections and settings affected by AutoRange and

their default values.

The BA100K Q-RPT cannot be AutoRanged.

3. OPERATION

3.3.5 [LEAK CK]

 PURPOSE

To run an automated leak check routine that determines the leak rate of the system connected to the RPM4 active Q-RPT TEST(+) port.

 PRINCIPLE

The LEAK CHECK function is provided as a means of checking and quantifying the leaks that may be present in the system connected to the RPM4’s active Q-RPT test port.

The principle of the LEAK CHECK function is the measurement of the natural decrease or increase of pressure in a fixed volume over time. The LEAK CHECK function allows a leak check time to be set. The total pressure change and the average rate of change over the leak check time are calculated and displayed.

In differential pressure measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1), the leak check

measurement is based on the measurement of the differential pressure.

 OPERATION

Changing the pressure in a test system causes adiabatic temperature changes in the

pressurized medium that need to have dissipated before a valid leak measurement can be made. In general, a 0.5 to 1 minute wait before running a leak check is adequate to allow the adiabatic temperature change to dissipate and valid leak measurements to be made. However, stabilization time may be much longer with liquid test media, and as volume and pressure increases.

To run a leak check, first set the pressure to the desired leak check pressure.

To access the LEAK CHECK function, press [LEAK CHECK] from the MAIN RUN screen. Select <1run> to run a leak test. The display is:

Set leak check time:

1. Edit field for the time over which the leak rate will be determined, in seconds.

15 s

Edit the leak check time if desired (minimum 1, maximum 999 seconds) and press [ENT]. Press [ENT] again when ready to start the leak test. The leak test display is:

1. Standard MAIN RUN screen first line showing measured pressure.

2. Active Q-RPT position indicator

3. Indication that leak test is running and countdown of time remaining.

957.84 kPa a Hi

Leak testing 13 s

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

[ESC] can be used to abort the running leak test. [ENT] while the leak test is running

restarts the leak check timer. When the leak check timer countdown has completed, RPM4 beeps three times and the leak check results screen is displayed:

1. Total pressure change from start to finish of leak check time.

2. Indicator of Q-RPT used to run the leak check.

3. Average rate of change of pressure over the leak check time period (∆P/time in seconds).

∆P 0.61 kPa a Hi

Rate 0.06 kPa/sec

From the leak check results screen, press [ENT] to repeat the leak test.

Press [ESC] to return to leak check main menu and exit to the MAIN RUN screen.

To view the results of the most recently completed leak check, press <2view>. If NO leak check data is stored (i.e., if the RPM4 has never run a leak test or a reset has cleared previous leak test results), the results screen displays <Data NOT available> briefly and returns to MAIN RUN screen. Press [ENT] or [ESC] to return to the MAIN RUN screen.

Leak check is range specific in the sense that a leak check is run using the active range.

However, only one set of leak check results is maintained in memory and each leak test completed overwrites the memory. View leak check always shows the results of the last leak check run regardless of the range that is now active. The results screen includes the range indicator to indicate the range in which the leak check was run.

3.3.6 [DISPLAY]

 PURPOSE

To select, from a variety of choices, the information that is displayed on the second line of the RPM4 display.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 supports a variety of advanced pressure measurement functions that are displayed on the second (bottom) line of the RPM4 display. In summary, the available display functions included are:

AVERAGE Calculates the average pressure measurement over a user specified period

of time and displays the average, the standard deviation about the mean and a countdown in seconds to the next average (see Section 3.3.6.1). This function is often used to filter out pressure noise in an unstable system. The magnitude of the noise is quantified by the standard deviation about the mean. A second Avg screen allows the instantaneous pressure values to be viewed during an averaging cycle.

RATE Calculates and displays the current rate of change of pressure in current

pressure units/second (see Section 3.3.6.2). This function is a useful indication of the stability of the pressure being measured. It is often used as an indication of positive or negative leak rate and as a go/no go criterion of when to take data when comparing RPM4 and a device under test, for example in a calibration. Rate is used by the Ready/Not Ready function to determine when a Ready condition exists (see Section 3.2.1).

DEVIATION Continuously calculates and displays the difference between the pressure

measured by RPM4 and a target pressure entered by the user (see Section

3.3.6.3). This function is useful in monitoring the evolution of pressure around and/or away from a desired set point.

3. OPERATION

RPT If the RPM4 has two Q-PRTs, allows pressure measurement from the two

RPTs to be displayed simultaneously (see Section 3.3.6.4). This function is particularly useful in dual Q-RPT RPM4s with independent TEST ports to monitor two separate pressures simultaneously. It is also used to when the Hi Q-RPT is in differential measurement mode, to observe the line pressure measured by the Lo Q-RPT.

HI/LO Records and displays maximum and minimum pressures measured (see

Section 3.3.6.5). This function is used to keep track of the minimum and maximum pressure observed in a system over a period of time or to monitor if a pressure min/max limit has been exceeded..

FREEZE Captures and displays the pressure measured by the active range of RPM4

when the [ENT] key is pressed (see Section 3.3.6.6). This function is useful to record the pressure present at the time of an operator observed trigger event, for example when the needle of an analog gauge was on the nominal point or when a switch activates.

CLEAN Blanks out the second line of the display (see Section 3.3.6.7). This function

is used when a simple display of pressure measured by the RPM4 active range without additional information is desired.

 OPERATION

To set the DISPLAY function press [DISPLAY] from the main run screen.

The display is:

1avg 2rate 3dev 4RPT

5HiLo 6freeze 7clean

The cursor is on the active DISPLAY function. Selecting a display function returns to the main run screen with the selected function active.

Display menu choices include:

<1avg> Display average pressure and standard deviation. Specify averaging time period

(see Section 3.3.6.1).

<2rate> Display pressure rate of change (see Section 3.3.6.2).

<3dev> Display deviation of the measured pressure from a target value and specify

the target value (see Section 3.3.6.3).

<4RPT> Display the pressure measured by the second Q-RPT in RPM4s with two

Q-RPTs (see Section 3.3.6.4).

<5HiLo> Display the maximum and minimum pressure observed since HiLo reset

(see Section 3.3.6.5).

<6freeze> Capture and display the value measured when [ENT] is pressed

(see Section 3.3.6.6).

<7clean> Leave the second line of the display blank (see Section 3.3.6.7).

The DISPLAY selection is NOT range specific. A DISPLAY selection made in one range

applies to all ranges.

The default DISPLAY function is Rate which causes the second line of the display to show “R”

followed by the current rate of change of pressure in current pressure units per second. The default DISPLAY function in differential mode is RPT.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

When RPM4 is initialized as an external device to a PPC3 pressure controller, the RPM4

front panel keypad is locked out and the second line of the display becomes:

<PPC3 EXT DEV: IDLE> (if RPM4 is initialized by PPC3 but not currently in use) <PPC3 EXT DEV: ACTIVE> (if RPM4 is initialized by PPC3 and is currently in use)

After using an RPM4 as an external device for a PPC3, cycle power to return to the previous RPM4 settings, restore front keypad capability and return to the normal main run screen.

3.3.6.1 AVG (AVERAGE)

 PURPOSE

To activate the Average DISPLAY and/or adjust the period of time over which averaging occurs.

See Section 3.3.6.  Principle.

 OPERATION

To access the Average DISPLAY, press [DISPLAY], <1Avg>. The display is:

Averaging Period:

1. Edit field for averaging period in seconds. Default is 20. Minimum 1, maximum 999.

20 s

Edit the averaging time period if desired. Pressing [ENT] returns to the main run screen with the Average DISPLAY active.

With the Average DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

1. Average measured over last completed averaging period.

2. Standard deviation of last completed averaging period.

3. Countdown in seconds until completion of ongoing averaging period.

96.929 kPa a Hi

δ 0.0007 18Avg

The Average DISPLAY has a second screen that allows the instantaneous pressure readings to be viewed while an averaging cycle is running. The instantaneous Average screen is:

1. Instantaneous pressure values at RPM4’s normal update rate.

2. Current rate of change of pressure in pressure units/second.

3. Countdown in seconds until completion of ongoing averaging period.

96.929 kPa a Hi

R 0.0025 18Avg

The [+/-] key toggles between the main run Average screen and the instantaneous values Average screen.

3. OPERATION

Pressing [ENT] while in the Average DISPLAY aborts the current averaging

period and causes a new one to begin. [ENT] can thus be use to trigger a new averaging period on demand.

In the Average DISPLAY the Ready/Not Ready indication applies to the result

of the previous averaging period (see Section 3.2.1). <Ready> indicates that all readings during the previous averaging period met the stability criterion. <Not Ready> indicates that one or more readings were outside of the stability criterion.

Changing the pressure unit of measure, measurement mode or range while

the averaging screen is active, starts a new averaging period.

To go to a DISPLAY other than Average, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3.3.6.2 Rate

 PURPOSE

To activate the Rate DISPLAY.

See Section 3.3.6 [DISPLAY],  Principle.

The AutoTest function (see Section 3.3.10) to AutoRange RPM4 based on

DUT characteristics and run an automated test sequence is accessed by pressing [ENT] from the Rate run screen.

 OPERATION

To activate the Rate DISPLAY press [DISPLAY], <2Rate>. Pressing <2Rate> returns to the main run screen with the Rate DISPLAY active.

With the Rate DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

99.1135 psi a Hi

1. Current rate of change of pressure in current pressure units per second.

R 0.0001/sec

The Rate DISPLAY is different and separate from the stability setting which

is used to set the stability criterion on which the Ready/Not Ready indication is based (see Sections 3.4.3 and 3.2.1). The Rate DISPLAY only causes the current rate of change to be displayed and has NO affect on the stability setting or the Ready/Not Ready condition.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

The Rate DISPLAY is the default display except in differential measurement

mode in which the default DISPLAY is RPT.

To go to a DISPLAY other than Rate, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3.3.6.3 Dev (Deviation)

 PURPOSE

See Section 3.3.6 [DISPLAY],  Principle.

To activate the Deviation DISPLAY and/or set the deviation target value.

 OPERATION

To activate the Deviation DISPLAY press [DISPLAY], <3Dev>. The display is:

Target:

100.0000 psi a

Edit the desired target value. Pressing [ENT] returns to the main run screen with the Deviation DISPLAY active using the entered target value.

The target value is the value from which deviations (D) are measured by the

Deviation DISPLAY following:

D = current pressure - target pressure

With the Deviation DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

1. Deviation of current pressure from the target value.

2. Target value.

99.1135 psi a zH3

D -0.8865 T100.0000

Pressing [ENT] from the main run screen when the Deviation DISPLAY is

If the pressure measurement unit or mode is changed while the Deviation

To go to a DISPLAY other than Deviation, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

active goes directly to the Target editing screen. This allows the target value to be changed without going through the DISPLAY menu.

DISPLAY is active the target value remains at the same numerical value. It is NOT converted.

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3. OPERATION

3.3.6.4 RPT

 PURPOSE

See Section 3.3.6,  Principle.

To activate the RPT DISPLAY.

The RPT DISPLAY is only available in RPM4s with two Q-RPTs.

 OPERATION

For the sake of clarity, when describing the RPT DISPLAY, the Q-RPT

displayed on the top line of the display when the RPT function is selected is referred to as the “active” Q-RPT. The other Q-RPT to be displayed on the second (bottom) line of the RPM4 display is referred to as the “inactive” Q-RPT. It is “inactive” in the sense that all RPM4 functions and settings such as UNIT and RES still apply to the “active” Q-RPT. To make changes to the “inactive” Q-RPT, for example to change its measurement units, it must be made the active Q-RPT by a conventional range change (see Section 3.3.1). In differential pressure measurement mode, the Hi Q-RPT is always the “active” Q-RPT.

To activate the RPT DISPLAY, press [DISPLAY], <4RPT>. Operation returns to the MAIN RUN screen with the inactive Q-RPT displayed on the display’s bottom line. The range of the inactive Q-RPT is always the default range, not an AutoRanged range (see Section 3.3.4).

If the RPM4 has only one Q-RPT, <Not available with single RPT> displays

momentarily and operation returns to the main run screen when [DISPLAY], <4RPT> is pressed.

If the RPM4 is in parallel (<HL>) (see Section 3.5.7.3) mode in which both

Q-RPTs are used simultaneously, when <4RPT> is selected, the Q-RPT to display on the lower display line must be specified. The Q-RPT specific settings of the Q-RPT displayed in the lower display line (measurement mode, unit of measure, resolution, etc.) can only be changed by making that Q-RPT active.

With the RPT DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

1. Active RPT display.

2. Inactive RPT display with Ready/Not Ready indicator on far left.

99.1135 psi a zHi

*2350.23 psi g zLo

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

If the inactive RPT is equipped with SDS Self Defense System (see Section

3.2.7), SDS will almost certainly be CLOSED when the RPT DISPLAY is activated. SDS can be OPENED on the inactive RPT using [SPECIAL], <4SDS> (see Section

3.5.4). In differential or parallel measurement mode, SDS can be opened simultaneously on both Q-RPTs using [SDS] (see Section 3.3.8).

The RPT DISPLAY is the default display in differential measurement mode.

When the RPT display is active, executing a range change to a range on the

inactive Q-RPT makes the inactive Q-RPT the active Q-RPT. The DISPLAY defaults back to Rate ( Section 3.3.6.2).

To go to a DISPLAY other than RPT, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3.3.6.5 Hi/Lo

 PURPOSE

To activate the Hi/Lo DISPLAY.

See Section 3.3.6,  Principle..

 OPERATION

To activate the Hi/Lo DISPLAY press [DISPLAY], <5Hi/Lo>. Pressing <5Hi/Lo> resets the Hi/Lo values and returns to the main run screen with the Hi/Lo DISPLAY active.

With the Hi/Lo DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

99.1135 psi a zHi

1. Highest pressure observed since Hi/Lo reset.

2. Lowest pressure observed since Hi/Lo reset.

H 99.2254 L98.0098

The Hi/Lo values change each time a new Hi or Lo pressure is observed.

The Hi/Lo record can be reset at any time by pressing [ENT]. This allows a

Hi/Lo reset without going back through the DISPLAY menu.

If the pressure measurement unit, mode or range is changed while the Hi/Lo

To go to a DISPLAY other than Hi/Lo, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY is active, Hi/Lo resets.

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3. OPERATION

3.3.6.6 Freeze

 PURPOSE

See Section 3.3.6,  Principle.

 OPERATION

To activate the Freeze DISPLAY press [DISPLAY], <6Freeze>. Pressing <6Freeze> returns to the main run screen with the Freeze DISPLAY active.

With the Freeze DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

To activate the Freeze DISPLAY.

1. Pressure measured by active range of RPM4 when [ENT] was pressed (displays 0.00 by default when Freeze DISPLAY is first activated).

99.135 psi a zHi

F 99.2133

Pressing [ENT] causes the current pressure measured by the active RPM4 Q-RPT to be captured and displayed.

If the pressure measurement unit, mode or range is changed while the Freeze

DISPLAY is active, the Freeze value defaults back to zero.

To go to a DISPLAY other than Freeze, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3.3.6.7 Clean

 PURPOSE

To activate the Clean DISPLAY.

See Section 3.3.6,  Principle..

The AutoTest function (see Section 3.3.10) to AutoRange RPM4 based on

DUT characteristics and run an automated test sequence is accessed by pressing [ENT] from the Rate run screen.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 OPERATION

To activate the Clean DISPLAY press [DISPLAY], <7Clean>. Pressing <7Clean> returns to the main run screen with the Clean DISPLAY active.

With the Clean DISPLAY active the main run screen is:

1. Conventional main run screen first line.

2. “Clean” second line.

99.135 psi a zHi

To go to a DISPLAY other than Clean, press [DISPLAY] and make a new

DISPLAY choice (see Section 3.3.6).

3.3.7 [HEAD]

 PURPOSE

To cause a pressure fluid head correction to be added to or subtracted from the pressure measured by the RPM4 reference pressure transducer in order to predict the pressure at a height other than the RPM4’s reference level.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 measures gauge or absolute pressure at the height of the rear panel TEST(+) port. Frequently, when performing a calibration or test, the device or system under test is at a different height than the RPM4’s TEST(+) port. This difference in height, frequently called

head, can cause a significant difference between the pressure measured by the RPM4 at its TEST(+) port height and the pressure actually applied to the device under test which is at a

different height. In this case, it is useful to make a head correction to the pressure measured by the RPM4 in order to predict the pressure actually applied at a different height.

RPM4 can accurately determine “head” pressures for gases (nitrogen, helium and air) and liquids (oil, water) as the pressurized medium. In calculating the head value, standard gravity (9.80665 m/s density correcting for temperature of 20°C and the measured pressure using the gas’s compressibility factor to 100 MPa (15 000 psi) and extrapolated above 100 MPa. Oil density is taken to be 850 kg/m to be 998.2321kg/m

) is used. Gas densities are calculated from the selected gas’s standard

, the density of typical calibration oils at 20°C. Water density is taken

(20°C). A custom liquid density may also be specified.

The [HEAD] function key is used to specify the height difference between the RPM4 TEST(+) port and another height. Entering a height of zero turns the function off. The height unit and the test fluid are specified by pressing [SPECIAL], <3Head> (see Section 3.5.3).

Use of the HEAD function to assure in tolerance measurements is most important in low

absolute pressure ranges. Specifying the head height within ± 5 cm (2.5 in.) is adequate to assure that, even in the worst case, the uncertainty on the head correction will be insignificant relative to the tolerance on the measurement.

3. OPERATION

 OPERATION

To access the HEAD function, press [HEAD]. The display is:

Edit head height:

1. Test fluid currently specified for the head correction.

2. Edit field for head height.

+ 25 cm N2

Edit the head height to the desired value. Press [ENT] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with the new head correction active. Press [ESC] to return with no changes.

The reference height of the RPM4

pressure measurement is the middle of the RPM4 TEST port. The head height should be entered as a positive value if the device or system under test is higher than the RPM4 and negative if it is lower.

The HEAD function is NOT range specific. The HEAD ON or OFF status remains the same

as Q-RPTs and ranges are changed. Edits made to the head settings are independent of active range or Q-RPT.

When a head correction is being applied, it is indicated by <h> in the top line of the MAIN

RUN screen (see Section 3.1.1). When the head correction is zero, the <h> is not shown.

To change units of head height between inches and centimeters and to change the test

fluid species, use [SPECIAL], <3head> (see Section 3.5.3).

3.3.8 [SDS] (SELF DEFENSE SYSTEM)

 PURPOSE

To CLOSE SDS on all reference pressure transducers (Q-RPTs). To OPEN SDS on the active Q-RPT.

SDS is present only on Q-RPTs designated A7M or lower.

The [SDS] key should be used with care to avoid accidentally overpressuring a Q-RPT.

Always double check to ensure that the pressure applied to the Q-RPT’s TEST port is lower than the Q-RPT’s maximum pressure before OPENING SDS.

SDS can be set to permanently be OPEN as if no SDS were installed (see Section

3.5.4.2).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 PRINCIPLE

SDS is a self defense system to protect RPM4 Q-RPTs from overpressure. SDS CLOSES automatically to protect a Q-RPT that is not active. In a two Q-RPT RPM4, activating one Q-RPT automatically CLOSES SDS on the other Q-RPT. Powering down the RPM4 or energizing it also CLOSES SDS on all Q-RPTs.

When a Q-RPT’s module’s SDS is CLOSED, the Q-RPT is isolated from the TEST(+) port and opened to the VENT port. SDS must be OPENED for the pressure applied to the TEST(+) port to be measured. The [SDS] key is used to OPEN SDS.

The SDS function can also be used to CLOSE SDS as might be desired when leaving RPM4 at rest or when a possible overpressure situation is anticipated. Pressing [SDS] always CLOSES any SDS systems that are OPEN.

See Section 3.2.7 for general information on SDS and its principles and Section 5.6,

Figure 8 for Q-RPT module schematics.

SDS closed is indicated by <SDS CLOSED> flashing in the current measured pressure

display field. When SDS is closed, the Q-RPT is isolated from the TEST(+) port and connected to the VENT port.

Though the SDS self defense system includes features to protect Q-RPTs against

overpressure, SDS should NOT be considered a fail-safe overpressure protection system. SDS cannot guarantee that overpressure damage will NOT occur. SDS closing automatically may protect an RPT in case of accidental overpressure but conventional measures for overpressure protection should always be used. Damage to Q-RPTs due to overpressure is NOT covered by the RPM4 product warranty even when SDS is present and ON.

 OPERATION

The maximum pressure that should be applied to an RPM4 TEST(+) port when SDS is

CLOSED is 10 MPa (1 500 psi).

When SDS is CLOSED with a pressure applied, a valve shuts isolating the Q-RPT from the

TEST(+) port. Another valve vents the Q-RPT to atmosphere through the VENT port. If the pressure applied at the time SDS is CLOSED is less than 1 700 kPa (250 psi), the VENT valve will open causing sudden release of pressure through the VENT port and returning the Q-RPT to atmospheric pressure. If the pressure applied at the time SDS is CLOSED is greater than 1 700 kPa, the VENT valve may NOT open. In this case, to vent pressure from the Q-RPT module, remove the pressure from the TEST(+) port. This will cause the SDS TEST port isolation valve to open partially, reducing pressure under 1 700 kPa at which time the SDS VENT valve will open (see Section 5.6, Figure 8)

Pressing [SDS] always CLOSES any SDS system that is OPEN. In a dual Q-RPT RPM4,

even if the active Q-RPT has NO SDS, pressing [SDS] CLOSES SDS for the inactive Q-RPT if SDS is present.

3. OPERATION

Use [SDS] to OPEN SDS if it is CLOSED for the active Q-RPT and/or to CLOSE SDS for the active and inactive Q-RPT.

When [SDS] is pressed, there are three possible results depending whether the active Q-RPT is SDS equipped and ON (see Section 3.5.4.2), and whether its SDS is OPEN or CLOSED.

1. If the active Q-RPT IS NOT SDS equipped or its SDS if “full time OFF” (see Section 3.5.4.2): <No SDS on RPT> or <SDS is OFF and OPEN> is displayed for 5 seconds and operation returns to the main run screen. If there is a second Q-RPT with SDS, its SDS is CLOSED.

2. If the active RPT IS SDS EQUIPPED and SDS on the active RPT is OPEN: SDS is CLOSED and operation returns to the main run screen.

3. If the active RPT IS SDS EQUIPPED and SDS on the active RPT is CLOSED: The OPEN SDS routine is presented. The display is :

1. Maximum acceptable pressure of active Q-RPT (always absolute on an Axxx Q-RPT and gauge on a Gxxx Q-RPT).

2. Position designator of Q-RPT for which SDS will be opened.

Pmax! 350 kPa a Hi

Open SDS? 1no 2yes

Check that the pressure applied to the TEST(+) port does NOT exceed the maximum acceptable value for the Q-RPT. Select <1no> to return to the main run screen without OPENING SDS, select <2yes> to OPEN SDS and return to the main run screen with SDS OPEN (the active Q-RPT open to the TEST(+) port).

Opening SDS with a pressure greater than Pmax! applied to the test port may cause

overpressure damage to the Q-RPT.

In differential and parallel measurement modes, opening SDS acts simultaneously on

BOTH THE Hi AND Lo Q-RPTs (see Section 3.3.8.1). The Pmax! pressure is the Lo RPT. Be sure to check BOTH Q-RPT TEST(+) ports are at a safe pressure before opening SDS.

The [SDS] key is also the [2] key which is pressed to select <2Yes> to OPEN SDS.

Thus, SDS can be OPENED by two rapid presses of [SDS]. Use this feature to conveniently OPEN SDS but always check that the pressure connected the TEST(+) port does NOT exceed Pmax! before doing so.

When changing ranges causes a change of active Q-RPT, SDS is automatically CLOSED for

the Q-RPT that is being changed from, leaving the inactive Q-RPT with SDS CLOSED.

The Lo and Hi Q-RPTs’ SDS, if present, can be controlled directly regardless of which

Q-RPT is currently active (see Section 3.5.4).

SDS can be permanently opened so operation is as if SDS were not present

(see Section 3.5.4.2).

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.3.8.1 SDS IN DIFFERENTIAL AND PARALLEL MEASUREMENT MODES

In differential and parallel measurement modes, opening SDS opens SDS for

BOTH the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs. Before opening SDS, be certain that the pressure applied to both the Hi and Lo RPM4 TEST(+) ports is less than the maximum pressure of the Lo Q-RPT.

Differential (see Section 3.3.3.1) and parallel measurement modes (see Section

3.5.7.3) use two Q-RPTs in one RPM4 to simultaneously. In these modes,

function of the [SDS] key is adapted to facilitate operation using both Q-RPTs simultaneously. [SDS] can be used to OPEN SDS on both the active an inactive Q-RPTs at the same time.

Pressing [SDS] always CLOSES any ON and OPEN SDS, as it does in single Q-RPT mode operation. However, if SDS is CLOSED for any and all modules equipped with SDS, pressing SDS goes to the usual OPEN SDS routine which will OPEN SDS for both Q-RPTs.

The display is :

1. Maximum acceptable pressure of the Lo Q-RPT (always absolute on an Axxx Q-RPT and gauge on a Gxxx Q-RPT).

2. Position designator of active Q-RPT. <HL> in parallel mode, <Hd> in differential mode.

Pmax! 350 kPa a HL

Open Hi&Lo? 1no 2yes

Check that the pressure applied to BOTH the TEST(+) ports does NOT exceed the maximum acceptable value for the Lo Q-RPT. Select <1no> to return to the main run screen without OPENING SDS, select <2yes> to OPEN SDS for both Q-RPTs and return to the main run screen with SDS OPEN (the active Q-RPT open to the TEST(+) port).

3.3.9 [AUTOZ]

 PURPOSE

To run the AutoZ function that rezeros the active Q-RPT between full calibrations.

See Section 3.5.1,  Principle for a full explanation of the AutoZ function.

 PRINCIPLE

Run AutoZ is the function by which the current Q-RPT reading is compared to a reference,

, at atmospheric pressure to determine a new value of P

std,0

. The value of P

offset

is then used by AutoZ to automatically correct the Q-RPT for possible changes in zero over time (see Section 3.5.1,  PRINCIPLE).

Running AutoZ in parallel mode (see Section 3.5.7.3) autozeros the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs

simultaneously and independently. There is are no Zoffset values specific to the HL QRPT.

See Section 3.3.9 to run AutoZ.

3. OPERATION

3.3.9.1 [AUTOZ] IN GAUGE AND NEGATIVE GAUGE MODE

 PURPOSE

See Section 3.5.1,  Principle for a full explanation of the AutoZ function.

To “rezero” the active Q-RPT in gauge measurement mode.

 OPERATION

For the AutoZ function key to run AutoZ, AutoZ must be turned ON for the

active range and measurement mode. AutoZ ON is indicated by <z> to the left of the Q-RPT designator on the first line of the main run screen. AutoZ ON and OFF is set using [SPECIAL], <1AutoZ> (see Section

3.5.1). If AutoZ is OFF for the active Q-RPT, and measurement mode, <AutoZ is off > is displayed when [AutoZ] is pressed.

Running AutoZ in or parallel mode (see Section 3.5.7.3) autozeros both the

Hi and Lo Q-RPTs simultaneously.

To run AutoZ in gauge measurement mode, set gauge or negative gauge as the measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3) and press [AutoZ] from the main run screen. If the Q-RPT is a Gxxx or BGxxx type, the display is <Preparing to AutoZ> for five seconds to allow time for the bypass valve between the TEST(+) and TEST(-) sides of the Q-RPT to assure zero differential pressure and for the pressure to stabilize (see Section 5.6, Figure 8). <Running gauge AutoZ> is displayed briefly before returning to the main run screen.

Before running AutoZ in gauge mode, ensure that the pressure applied to

the Q-RPT is truly zero gauge (atmospheric pressure). If running AutoZ in gauge mode results in a zero offset that RPM4 considers unusually large, <Confirm 0 gauge P!> is displayed when AutoZ is pressed. Check that zero gauge pressure is applied to the TEST(+) port and there is no differential pressure across the TEST(+) and TEST(-) ports and press ENTER to continue or ESCAPE to abort.

Allow the RPM4 to stabilize at atmospheric pressure and ambient

temperature for 1 to 2 minutes before running AutoZ in gauge mode.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.3.9.2 [AUTOZ] IN ABSOLUTE MODE

 PURPOSE

See Section 3.5.1,  Principle for a full explanation of the AutoZ function.

To “rezero” the active Q-RPT in absolute measurement mode

 OPERATION

For the AutoZ function key to run AutoZ, AutoZ must be turned ON for the

active Q-RPT and measurement mode. AutoZ ON is indicated by <z> to the left of the range designator on the first line of the main run screen. AutoZ ON and OFF is set using [SPECIAL], <1AutoZ> (see Section 3.5.1). If AutoZ is OFF for the active range, and measurement mode, <AutoZ OFF> is displayed when [AutoZ] is pressed.

Running AutoZ in or parallel mode (see Section 3.5.7.3) autozeros both the

Hi and Lo Q-RPTs simultaneously.

To run AutoZ in absolute measurement mode, set absolute measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3) and press [AutoZ] from the main run screen. The display is:

1. Active Q-RPT designator.

2. Current measurement mode (absolute).

3. Selection of source of P to AutoZ.

reference to which

std,0

Selecting <1Entry> allows the value of P

Selecting <2COM2> allows the value of P

to be entered from the front panel keypad.

std,0

AutoZ Hi abs by:

1Entry 2COM2 3Lo RPT

to be read automatically from another

DHI RPMx connected to RPM4’s COM2 communications port.

Selecting <3Lo RPT> is shown only if the active Q-RPT is Hi and there is a Lo Axxx Q-RPT in the RPM4. This selection allows the value of P

for the Hi

std,0

Q-RPT to be read automatically from the RPM4s Lo Q-RPT.

Allow the RPM4 to stabilize at atmospheric pressure and ambient

temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before running AutoZ in absolute mode.

If running AutoZ results in a value of P

that is greater than ± 0.005 % FS of

offset

the span of the Q-RPT that is being AutoZeroed, the Q-RPT and/or the reference used as the source of P have been faulty. Before activating a new P

may be out of tolerance or the AutoZ process may

std,0

greater than ± 0.005 % FS of

offset

the active Q-RPT, check to be sure that both the Q-RPT and the reference were in good working order, properly vented to stable atmospheric pressure, at the same height, and reading in the same pressure units when AutoZ was run.

3. OPERATION

When the run AutoZ selection is made, if a HEAD correction is currently active

(see Section 3.3.7) the head correction is momentarily disabled while running AutoZ to avoid “zeroing out” the head value.

The value of P

is always displayed and entered in Pascal (Pa).

offset

Run AutoZ by Entry

AutoZ by entry allows the value of P

(see Section 3.5.1,  PRINCIPLE) to be

std,0

entered directly from the RPM4 front panel. This provides a simple way of AutoZeroing relative to an independent reference device such as a house barometer that does not interface directly with RPM4.

To access run AutoZ by entry press [AutoZ], <1entry>. The display is:

1. Real time pressure reading (without head correction), pressure unit of measure and measurement mode of the active Q-RPT.

2. Active Q-RPT position designator.

3. Entry field for the value of P pressure unit of measure.

. in the current

std,0

Enter the value of the AutoZ reference (P

std,0

96.7755 kPa a Hi

Pstd,0:0.00000

) in the same unit of measure as the top line display and press [ENT]. RPM4 logs the reading and calculates a new AutoZ offset value. The next display is:

Press [ENT] to activate the new value of

or [ESC] to start over with entry of a

offset

new AutoZ reference (P

std,0

) value.

Old P

New P

offset

: 0.0 Pa

: 8.3 Pa

The value of P

is always in Pascal (Pa). The value of P

offset

is entered in

std,0

the current pressure unit of measure.

Run AutoZ by COM2

AutoZ by COM2 allows the value of P

(see Section 3.5.1  Principle) to be read

std,0

automatically from a DHI RPMx connected to the RPM4 COM2 communications port. The RPMx is read and the new P

is calculated automatically.

offset

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

To access run AutoZ by COM2 press [AutoZ], <2COM2>. The display is:

1. Real time pressure reading (without head correction), pressure unit of measure and measurement mode of the active Q-RPT.

2. Active Q-RPT position designator.

3. Real time reading from the RPMx connected to RPM4’s COM2 communications port.

Observe the displayed pressures and verify that they are stable. When ready, press [ENT] to cause AutoZ to run. RPM4 logs both readings and calculates a new AutoZ offset value. The display is:

96.7755 kPa a Hi

Pstd,0:0.00000

offset

: 0.0 Pa

: 3.1 Pa

Press [ENT] to activate the new value of

or [ESC] to start over.

offset

Old P

New P

For RPM4 to communicate with an RPMx connected to its COM2 port, the

RPM4 and the RPMx RS-232 interfaces must be set up properly (see Section 3.5.2). If, the RPM4 is unable to communicate with an RPMx via COM2 when running AutoZ by COM2, it times out after 6 seconds and displays <RPM NOT detected>.

The value of P

is always displayed and entered in Pascal (Pa).

offset

Run AutoZ by Lo RPT

AutoZ by Lo RPT is available only if the active Q-RPT is the Hi Q-RPT and there is an Axxx Lo Q-RPT. AutoZ by Lo RPT allows the Lo Q-RPT in an RPM4 to serve as the AutoZ reference (source of P The Lo Q-RPT is read and the new P

) (see Section 3.5.1,  PRINCIPLE).

std,0

is calculated automatically.

offset

To access run AutoZ by Lo RPT press [AutoZ], <3Lo RPT>. The display is:

1. Real time pressure reading (without head correction), pressure unit of measure and measurement mode of the active Q-RPT.

2. Active Q-RPT position designator.

3. Real time reading from the Lo Q-RPT.

96.7755 kPa a Hi

Pstd,0:97.7786

Observe the displayed pressures and verify that they are stable. When ready, press [ENT] to cause AutoZ to run. RPM4 logs both readings and calculates a new AutoZ offset value. The display is:

Press [ENT] to activate the new value of

or [ESC] to start over.

offset

The value of P

Old P

offset

New P

offset

is always displayed and entered in Pascal (Pa).

offset

: 0.0 Pa

: 3.1 Pa

3. OPERATION

3.3.9.3 AUTOZ IN DIFFERENTIAL MODE

 PURPOSE

To compensate for the offset between the Hi Q-RPT and the Lo Q-RPT at the operating “line pressure” in differential measurement mode.

See Section 3.5.1,  Principle for a full explanation of the AutoZ function.

 OPERATION

For the AutoZ function key to run AutoZ, AutoZ must be turned ON for the

3.5.1). If AutoZ is OFF for the active Q-RPT, and measurement mode, <AutoZ is off > is displayed when [AutoZ] is pressed.

To run AutoZ in differential measurement mode, set differential as the measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3) and press [AutoZ] from the main run screen. <Running differential AutoZ> is displayed briefly before returning to the main run screen.

Before running AutoZ in differential mode, set the “line pressure” at which

the differential measurements will be made and assure that a common pressure is applied to both Q-RPTs. If running AutoZ in differential mode results in a zero offset that RPM4 considers unusually large, <Confirm 0 DP> is displayed when AutoZ is pressed. Check that zero differential pressure is applied across the Hi and Lo TEST(+) ports and press ENTER to continue or ESCAPE to abort.

Allow the RPM4 to stabilize at atmospheric pressure and ambient

temperature for 2 to 3 minutes before running AutoZ in differential mode.

3.3.10 [ENT] (RUN AUTOTEST)

 PURPOSE

To run the AutoTest function which AutoRanges the RPM4 and runs a calibration test based on user entries of pressure unit, measurement mode, full scale, increment and DUT tolerance.

Run AutoTest is accessed by pressing [ENT] from the Rate or Clean DISPLAY mode (see

Section 3.3.6.2). In other DISPLAY modes, the function of [ENT] is specific to the mode.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 PRINCIPLE

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 OPERATION

Feature not available at the time of release of this manual.

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3.4 [SETUP]

 PURPOSE

[SETUP] accesses a menu of functions and features commonly used in setting up and using RPM4.

 OPERATION

To access the SETUP menu, press [SETUP] from the MAIN RUN screen. The display is:

SETUP menu choices include:

<1range> Save and delete ranges created by AutoRange (see Section 3.4.1).

<2res> Adjust the resolution of pressure displays (see Section 3.4.2).

<3stab> Adjust the pressure stability test that is the criterion for the Ready/Not Ready indication

(see Section 3.3.3).

<4UL> Adjust upper and lower pressure limit alarms (see Section 3.4.4).

<5ATest> View data files resulting from running QDUT AutoTests (See Section 3.4.5).

1range 2res 3stab

4UL 5ATest

3.4.1 <1RANGE>

 PURPOSE

Save AutoRange ranges and associated settings for recall. Delete previously saved AutoRange ranges.

 PRINCIPLE

The RPM4 AutoRange function creates a range and automatically sets various operating parameters proportionally to the range (see Section 3.3.4). Operating settings can then be changed by the user. Many operating settings are specific to the current range (see Table 4).

[SPECIAL], <1range> allows the AutoRange range and associated settings to be saved for recall using the [RANGE] key (see Section 3.3.1). This can avoid having to recreate frequently used ranges and settings.

[SPECIAL], <1range> is also used to delete ranges that have been saved but are no longer needed.

3.4.1.1 SAVING AN AUTORANGE RANGE

 OPERATION

To save a range created by AutoRange, the range must be the active range. Use AutoRange to create the range (see Section 3.3.4) and then make any desired feature and setting adjustments.

3. OPERATION

Once the AutoRange range is set up as desired, press [SETUP], <1range>, <1save>. The display is:

1. Indication that this is a range to be saved.

2. Designator and position of the Q-RPT used by the range to be saved.

3. Pressure unit of measure of the range to be saved.

4. Full scale pressure of the range to be saved in

gauge mode and absolute mode if available.

Save range A700K Hi

kPa 300g/100a

Press [ENT] to save the range or [ESC] to return to the MAIN RUN screen without saving the range.

Default (<DF>) Q-RPT ranges cannot be saved. They are permanent.

Duplicate AutoRange ranges cannot be saved. A duplicate AutoRange range

is a range that has the same measurement mode and full scale and uses the same Q-RPT as a range that has already been saved.

3.4.1.2 DELETING AUTORANGE RANGES

 OPERATION

To delete a single saved AutoRange range, press [SETUP], <1range>, <2delete>. If there are any saved ranges available to delete, the display is:

1. Indication that the cursor control keys may be

used to toggle through the saved ranges to select the one to be deleted.

2. Designator and position of the Q-RPT used by

the range to be deleted.

3. Pressure unit of measure of the range to be

deleted.

4. Full scale pressure of the range to be deleted

in gauge mode and absolute mode if available.

Use the cursor control keys to toggle through the ranges available to be deleted. When the desired range to be deleted is displayed, press [ENT]. If you are sure you want to delete this range, press [ENT] again in response to the <Delete?> query. [ESC] returns to the <AutoRange:> screen without deleting a range.

To delete all of the saved AutoRange ranges, press [SETUP], <1range>, <3delete all>. If you are sure you want to delete all the ranges, respond <1yes> to the <Delete all saved ranges?> query. If not, respond <2no>.

3.4.2 <2RES> (RESOLUTION)

< and > A700K Hi

kPa 300g/100a

 PURPOSE

To set the resolution with which measured pressures and other pressure indications and settings are displayed.

 PRINCIPLE

The resolution with which RPM4 displays pressure values can be adjusted. This feature can be used to reduce the resolution when lower precision measurements are being made and excess resolution might confuse or distract the operator.

The resolution setting determines the number of digits with which pressure is displayed. The resolution is calculated based on the span of the range and then rounded to the furthest

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

digit to the right. For example, resolution of 0.001 % on a range of 150 kPa is 150 X 0.001 % = 0.0015 which is rounded down to 0.001 kPa.

Default resolution is 10 ppm of active range span. Resolution is set automatically by

AutoRange (see Section 3.3.4).

 OPERATION

To access the resolution function, press [SETUP], <2res>. The display is:

Display resltn: Hi

0.0010 %FS < and >

Use the cursor control keys to set the desired level of resolution. Press [ENT] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with the new resolution setting active or [ESC] to make no changes.

The resolution setting is range specific. A resolution setting made in one range does NOT

affect other ranges.

The measured pressure resolution is fixed for altitude units at 1 m in meters and 1 ft in feet.

The maximum resolution setting is limited in AutoRange ranges that are less than 10% of the

Q-RPT default full scale.

3.4.3 <3STAB>

 PURPOSE

To view and/or adjust the stability test that is the Ready/Not Ready criterion for the active RPT and range.

See Section 3.2.1 Pressure Ready/Not Ready Indication.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 continuously monitors the rate of change of pressure measured by the active RPT and range and compares this rate to the stability limit to make a Ready/Not Ready determination (see Section 3.2.1 Pressure Ready/Not Ready Indication). The stability function allows the stability limit to be adjusted by the user to increase or decrease the stability required for a Ready condition to occur.

The default stability limit is + 0.005% FS of the active range.

The stability limit is separate and different from the Rate DISPLAY function (see Section

3.3.6.2) which allows the current rate of change of pressure to be displayed.

3. OPERATION

 OPERATION

To access the stability setting adjustment, press [SETUP], <3stab>. The display is:

Stability: Hi

0.020 Pa

Edit the desired stability limit setting if desired. [ENT] activates the stability limit for the active range and returns to the main run screen Press [ESC] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with no change to the stability limit.

The stability setting is range specific. A stability setting made in one range does NOT

affect other ranges.

3.4.4 <4UL> (UPPER LIMIT)

 PURPOSE

To set the upper and lower pressure limit values for a pressure range and measurement mode.

 PRINCIPLE

The UPPER LIMIT function provides the user with settable pressure limits at which an alarm sounds. Absolute and gauge measurement modes (see Section 3.3.3,  PRINCIPLE) have upper limits only. Negative gauge mode and the BA100K also have a lower limit.

When the limit is reached, RPM4’s beeper sounds intermittently as long as pressure is outside the limit.

The UPPER LIMIT function has two purposes. First, when UL is set to its default value, it serves as a warning that the maximum pressure of the active range (and lower pressure in negative gauge mode) is about to be exceeded. Second, UL can be set by the user to a value other than the default value to provide an alarm that a specific pressure limit has been exceeded. This feature is often used to help protect an external device or system on which RPM4 is being used to measure pressure. For example, it might be set just over the full scale of a device under test (DUT) that is being calibrated. Note that using AutoRange automatically sets the UL to just above the AutoRange full scale (see Section 3.3.4).

The default upper limit is 105 % of AutoRange span or 102 % of Q-RPT default (maximum)

range, whichever is lower. The default lower limit (negative gauge mode only ) is – 110 kPa (- 16 psi), except with the BG15K Q-RPT in which the default lower limit is the negative equivalent of the upper limit. The default lower limit of the BA100K Q-RPT is 66 kPa (9.6 psi).

In parallel measurement mode (see Section 3.5.7.2), the default and maximum UL is the

UL of the Lo Q-RPT.

In differential measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1), UL has upper and lower limits.

The default upper differential UL is the maximum pressure of the Hi Q-RTP. The default lower UL is the negative value of the upper limit.

In differential measurement mode, the ULs on the Lo Q-RPT and Hi Q-RPT default range are

also active so that line pressure (Lo Q-RPT) and total pressure (Hi Q-RPT) upper limit can be set and monitored in addition to a differential limit.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 OPERATION

To view or edit upper and lower limits press [SETUP], <4UL>.

If the current measurement mode is absolute or gauge, there is an upper limit only. The display is:

1. Entry field for upper limit value in active pressure unit of measure and measurement mode.

Upper limit: Hi

204.000 kPa a

Edit the upper limit value as desired. The maximum upper limit is 105 % of span in an AutoRange range or 102 % of default Q-RPT full scale, whichever is smaller. Press [ENT] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with the new upper limit active. Press [ESC] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with no change to the upper limit.

If the current measurement mode is negative gauge, there is an upper limit and a lower limit. The display is:

1. Entry field for upper limit value.

2. Entry field for lower limit value and active range pressure unit of measure and measurement mode indication.

Upper: 104.00 Hi

Lower:-110.00 kPa g

Edit the upper and lower limit values as desired. Use the cursor control keys to move between the two edit fields. The lower limit must be a negative value. Press [ENT] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with the new upper and/or lower limit active. Press [ESC] to return to the MAIN RUN screen with no change to the limits.

When the upper or lower limit has been exceeded, the display of current pressure flashes and a buzzer sounds for 3 seconds on/2 seconds off intervals. Change the pressure applied to RPM4 so that it is within the upper and/or lower limit to return to normal operation.

Upper limit values are specific to each range and measurement mode. Be careful not to

assume that the upper limit set in one measurement mode will apply to the other. For example, if you change the upper limit in gauge mode, the upper limit will not be changed in negative gauge mode.

Upper limits are always specified and displayed in the current pressure unit except for

altitude units. When in altitude units, upper limits are expressed in kPa if the altitude unit is meters (m) and psi if the altitude unit is feet (ft).

In Hi Q-PRT differential mode (see Section 3.3.3.1) there are two UL values for the Hi Q-

RPT. One is the upper and lower limts for differential pressure, with a default value equal to the span of the Lo RPT. The other is the UL on the base mode of the Hi Q-RPT DF range to monitor the maximum pressure on the Hi Q-RPT. In differential mode, the Lo QRPT UL is also active to provide monitoring of the differential mode line pressure.

3. OPERATION

3.4.4.1 OVER PRESSURE FUNCTION

In addition to the UL function, RPM4 has an over pressure function. The over pressure function executes when a Q-RPT measures a pressure that is

104 % of its default span. The G15K and BG15K Q-RPTs also have a negative over pressure function. The negative over pressure function executes when the Q-RPT measures a pressure less than - 17.5 kPa (- 2.3 psi).

The over pressure function causes the measured pressure display to flash. If the Q-RPT module is equipped with SDS, SDS closes shutting off the TEST(-) port (see Section 3.2.7). If the Q-RPT is a Gxxx or BGxxx, the TEST(+)/TEST(-) bypass valve is opened (see Section 5.6, Figure 8). The overpressure function also logs the time and date of the overpressure condition in both user and factory logs to assist in incident diagnosis (see Section 3.5.7.5).

To recover from an overpressure condition, cycle RPM4 power. Be sure to correct the condition that caused the overpressure before cycling power.

3.4.5 <5ATEST>

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3.5 [SPECIAL]

 PURPOSE

[SPECIAL] accesses a menu of RPM4 functions and features that are less commonly used or not

normally used in regular operation.

 OPERATION

1AutoZ 2remote 3head

Press [SPECIAL] from the MAIN RUN screen to access the SPECIAL menu. The display is:

Some screens, such as the SPECIAL menu, go beyond the two lines provided by the display. This is

SPECIAL menu choices include:

<1AutoZ> Manage AutoZero function for the active Q-RPT (see Section 3.5.1). <2remote> View and edit COM port (RS-232) and IEEE-488 interface settings. Select remote syntax

style (see Section 3.5.2).

<3head> Set HEAD function fluid and height unit of measure (see Section 3.5.3). <4SDS> To view and set the ON/OFF and OPEN/CLOSED status of SDS for all Q-RPTs. <5prefs> View and set screen saver time, keypad sound frequency, unit ID number, time/date,

security protection level (see Section 3.5.5).

<6Punit> Customize the [UNIT] key pressure unit of measure selections (See section 3.5.6). <7intern> Access internal functions including on-board barometer viewing, read rate adjustment, parallel

measurement mode ON/OFF, direct control of Lo Vent valve(s), incident log viewing (see Section 3.5.7).

<8cal> View and adjust RPM4, Q-RPT and barometer calibration coefficients (see Sections 3.5.8, 5.2, 5.3). <9reset> Access RPM4’s various reset functions (see Section 3.5.9).

4SDS 5prefs 6Punit

7intern 8cal 9reset

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.5.1 <1AUTOZ>

 PURPOSE

To offset the RPM4 Q-RPT(s) readings relative to a reference value in order to compensate for possible changes in Q-RPT zero between full recalibrations. In differential measurement mode, to compensate for the difference between the reading of the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs at the “line pressure” at which differential measurements are made.

To assure operation within measurement uncertainty specifications (see Section 1.2.2), it is

recommended that AutoZ be run (the value of P whenever the line pressure is changed in differential mode and at least every 30 days or when RPM4 has been exposed to temperature changes exceeding 15 ºC (36 ºF) in absolute mode.

 PRINCIPLE

updated) whenever vented in gauge mode,

offset

AutoZ Purpose and Principle

The main component of the change over time of the RPM4 Q-RPTs is change in zero or offset, independent of span. Offsetting or “rezeroing” RPM4 Q-RPTs relative to a reference between recalibrations allows measurement uncertainty specifications to be maintained with less frequent full calibrations. AutoZ is also used to compensate for the difference between the Hi and Lo Q-RPT at the “line pressure” at which differential measurements are made. The RPM4 AutoZero function (AutoZ) provides full on-board support for the rezeroing process to simplify its application by the user.

The AutoZero function uses three values:

1. P

: The pressure value indicated by the AutoZ reference, the device that is acting as

std,0

the reference relative to which to offset the RPM4 Q-RPT.

For Axxx (absolute) Q-RPTs in absolute measurement mode AutoZ is performed is normally atmospheric pressure and the P

, the pressure at which

value can be supplied

std,0

a) by manual entry, b) automatically from a DHI RPMx connected to RPM4 COM2 communications port, or c) automatically from an Axxx Lo Q-RPT if one is present in the RPM4.

For Gxxx or BGxxx (gauge) Q-RPTs or Axxx (absolute) Q-RPTs in gauge measurement

, P

mode

is always zero (atmospheric pressure) which is supplied by definition when

std,0

the Q-RPT is vented to atmosphere.

For RPM4s with two Q-RPTs of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx) with the Hi Q-RPT in differential measurement mode, P

is the pressure indicated by the Lo Q-RPT when

std,0

the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs are connected to a common pressure.

2. P

: The pressure reading of the Q-RPT, with no AutoZ offset, at the time AutoZ is

u,0

performed.

offset,G

, P

offset,A

3. P AutoZ offset (P absolute(

represents the difference between the Q-RPT reading (P

offset

). The AutoZ function manages the determination, storage and application of P

std,0

) or differential (D) measurement mode:

correct the zero offset in absolute, gauge and differential measurement modes.

When the Q-RPT is calibrated, P intervals using the AutoZ function. The most recent value of P reading to correct for change in zero.

and P

) and the indication of the AutoZ reference (P

u,0

: The difference between the reading of the Q-RPT with no

offset,D

= P

offset

is set to zero. P

offset

u,0

- P

std,0

u,0

is then redetermined at regular

offset

) for gauge (G),

std,0

) and the AutoZ standard

offset

is applied to the Q-RPT

3. OPERATION

The AutoZ function can be turned ON and OFF. Table 7 summarizes the effect of AutoZ ON and OFF for the three Q-RPT types in different measurement modes.

AutoZ in absolute measurement mode with an Axxx Q-RPT

Q-RPTs with the designation Axxx are intrinsically absolute. They have an evacuated and sealed reference. Axxx Q-RPTs can measure absolute pressure (difference from vacuum).

In absolute measurement mode, the source of P

must be an absolute pressure, nominally

std,0

atmospheric pressure, with uncertainty significantly better than that of the Q-RPT that is being AutoZeroed. For higher range Q-RPTs, this is easily accomplished with a variety of digital barometers or with a Lo Q-RPT in the RPM4. For lower range Q-RPTs, a piston gauge or other standard may be required to provide P

with low enough uncertainty.

std,0

When using an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT in absolute measurement mode, with AutoZ ON, absolute pressure is calculated as:

= Pu - P

abs

offset,A

In absolute measurement mode, running the AutoZ function to update the AutoZ value (P

), is initiated by the operator using [AutoZ].

offset,A

AutoZ in gauge and negative gauge measurement modes with an Axxx Q-RPT, dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure

Q-RPTs with the designation Axxx are intrinsically absolute but they are also used in gauge and negative gauge measurement modes (difference from atmosphere) (see Section 3.3.3,  PRINCIPLE). Gauge measurement mode is achieved by subtracting the value of atmospheric pressure from the Q-RPT’s absolute reading using AutoZ and by dynamically compensating for changes in atmospheric pressure between opportunities for AutoZ to execute (see Section 3.2.2).

In gauge measurement modes on an Axxx Q-RPT, the value of P

is always zero gauge

std,0

pressure. Zero gauge pressure, by definition, is applied to the Q-RPT when it is vented to atmosphere. In gauge measurement modes, AutoZ is run when initiated by the operator pressing [AutoZ] when the RPM4 is vented. This assures regular updating of the P

offset,G

value corresponding to atmospheric pressure. Gauge pressure is the measured absolute pressure, P

, minus P

offset,G

gauge

= Pu - P

offset,G

When AutoZ is ON, dynamic compensation for atmospheric pressure is also applied to compensate for changes in atmospheric pressure as measured by a barometer (ΔP AutoZ updates (see Section 3.2.2). The measured gauge pressure is calculated using ΔP to correct the value of P

offset.G

gauge

= Pu - P

offset.G

- ΔP

atm

) between

atm

In gauge measurement mode on an Axxx RPT, running the AutoZ function to update the value of P

, is initiated by the operator using [AutoZ]. Updating of ΔP

atm,0

occurs

atm

automatically and continuously.

When gauge or negative gauge mode is first activated on an Axxx Q-RPT, the value of

subtracted from the absolute pressure reading to achieve gauge pressure is

offset.G

standard atmosphere of 101.325 kPa. This can cause a large zero error when gauge mode is activated if atmospheric pressure is significantly different from standard atmospheric pressure. When gauge mode is activated, always press [AutoZ] to run AutoZ and obtain an actual value of P

offset.G

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

AutoZ in gauge measurement mode with a Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT

Q-RPTs with the designation Gxxx or BGxxx are intrinsically gauge. They have an atmospheric (TEST(-)) reference port and measure gauge pressure (difference from atmosphere).

In gauge measurement mode the value of P

is always zero gauge pressure. Zero gauge

std,0

pressure, by definition, is applied to the Q-RPT when it is vented to atmosphere.

When using a Gxxx Q-RPT in gauge measurement mode, with AutoZ ON, gauge pressure is calculated as:

= Pu - P

gauge

offset,G

In gauge measurement modes, AutoZ is run when initiated by the operator pressing [AutoZ]

when the RPM4 is vented. This assures the regular automated updating of the P

offset,G

value.

AutoZ in differential measurement mode

RPM4s with two Q-RPTs of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx) support differential measurement mode (see Section 3.3.3.1) in which the measured pressure is the difference between the pressure measured by the Hi Q-RPT and the Lo Q-RPT (Hi – Lo).

In differential measurement mode, the purpose of AutoZ is to compensate for the offset between the Hi and Lo Q-RPT indications at the “line pressure” at which the differential pressure is being measured. The value of P

is the pressure indicated by the Lo Q-RPT at

std,0

the time of AutoZ.

When using an RPM4 with two Q-RPTs in differential measurement mode, with AutoZ ON, differential pressure is calculated as:

differential

= PHi - PLo - P

offset,D

In differential measurement mode, AutoZ is run when initiated by the operator pressing

[AutoZ] when both Q-RPTs of the RPM4 are connected to a common pressure..

AutoZ ON/OFF

The AutoZ function can be turned ON and OFF, separately for gauge, absolute and differential measurement modes. Table 7 summarizes the effect of AutoZ ON and OFF.

Table 7. AutoZ ON and OFF

Q-RPT

TYPE

Axxx

Gxxx

BGxxx

Any, Hi Q-RPT

in dual Q-RPT

RPM4

MEASUREMENT

MODE

Absolute

Gauge or

negative gauge

Gauge or

negative gauge

Differential

AutoZ

STATUS

ON YES

OFF NO

ON YES

OFF

ON YES

OFF NO

ON YES

OFF NO

offset

APPLIED

YES

ΔP

atm

APPLIED

Not Applicable

AutoZ

ROUTINE

RUNS

When initiated

by operator

Not available

When initiated

by operator

When initiated

by operator

Not available

When initiated

by operator

Not available

Recommendations for the Use of the AutoZ Function

The AutoZ function provides a powerful and easy to use tool for improving the stability over time of RPM4 Q-RPTs and maximizing the recalibration interval by compensating for change in zero between full recalibrations. In differential measurement mode, it minimizes the uncertainty in the differential pressure due to the offset between the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs at the

3. OPERATION

“line pressure”. The following simple recommendations will help assure that you use this feature to best advantage.

• In gauge and differential measurement mode: Always leave AutoZ ON when operating.

• In absolute measurement mode: Always leave AutoZ ON when operating if the AutoZ routine has been run regularly using a valid atmospheric reference.

• To assure operation within measurement uncertainty specifications (see Section 1.2.2), run AutoZ whenever vented in gauge mode, whenever the line pressure is changed in differential mode and at least every 30 days or when RPM4 has been exposed to temperature changes exceeding 15 ºC (36 ºF) in absolute mode.

• In absolute measurement mode: Run AutoZ only when a reference whose measurement uncertainty is known to be significantly better than that of the Q-RPT to be AutoZeroed is available. Keep range ratios in mind when comparing uncertainty. A ± 0.01 % FS barometer is roughly 10 times better than an ± 0.01 % 1 MPa (150 psi) Q-RPT because the Q-RPT/barometer pressure ratio is 10:1. The measurement uncertainty comparison should be made at 30 % of span for both standard class and premium class Q-RPTs. Though it may not be practical and generally is not necessary, the best possible reference with which to run AutoZ in absolute measurement mode is a gas operated piston gauge (such as a DHI PG7601) applying atmospheric pressure to the RPM4 test port. The best day to day reference is a properly calibrated DHI RPM4 with a BA100K Q-RPT interfaced directly as an external device to the RPM4 COM2 port.

• In absolute measurement modes: Allow the RPM4 to stabilize at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before running AutoZ.

 OPERATION

The AutoZ function and values are Q-RPT AND measurement mode (gauge/negative gauge

or absolute) specific.

To RUN the AutoZ routine that rezeroes the Q-RPT, use [AutoZ] (see Section 3.3.9).

To access the RPM4 AutoZ function press [SPECIAL], <1AutoZ>. The display is:

1. Active Q-RPT designator.

2. Indication of active measurement mode (<abs> for absolute, <gage> for gauge and negative gauge, <dif> for differential).

3. Indication of whether AutoZ is currently ON or OFF for this Q-RPT and measurement mode.

1off 2view Hi

3edit abs ON

Select <1off> (or <1on>) to change the AutoZ status for the current Q-RPT and measurement mode from ON to OFF or vice versa.

AutoZ ON is indicated by a <z> in the MAIN RUN screen, top line, fourth character from

the right. When AutoZ is OFF, the character is blank.

Select <2view> to view the current value of P

should be zero when the RPM4 is new or has just been calibrated. P

offset

roughly equal to atmospheric pressure for an Axxx (absolute) Q-RPT operating in gauge mode.

for the active Q-RPT and measurement mode.

offset

should be

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Select <3edit> to edit the value of P (see Section 3.5.1.1).

for the active Q-RPT and measurement mode

offset

The value of P

is always displayed and entered in Pascal (Pa).

offset

3.5.1.1 EDIT AUTOZ

The edit AutoZ function should be used with great caution as entering

inappropriate values and turning ON AutoZ may result in out of tolerance measurements. In normal operation, the value of the AutoZ offset, P should be changed by running AutoZ using [AutoZ] (seen Section 3.3.9). Before editing P

To edit the current P

, see Section 3.5.1,  PRINCIPLE.

offset

value for the active Q-RPT and measurement mode,

offset

press [SPECIAL], <1AutoZ>, <3edit>. The display is:

1. Indication of active measurement mode (<abs> for absolute, <gage> for gauge and negative gauge, <dif> for differential).

2. Active Q-RPT for which P

3. Edit field for value of P

Edit P

as desired and press [ENT] to activate the new value. Press [ESC] to

offset

is being viewed.

offset

Poffset, Abs Hi

8.4 Pa

abandon changes.

offset

The value of P

is always displayed and entered in Pascal (Pa).

offset

3.5.2 <2REMOTE>

 PURPOSE

To configure the RPM4 COM1, COM2 and IEEE-488 (GPIB) communication ports. To test COM1 and COM2 communications. To select the remote programming communications format.

 PRINCIPLE

The RPM4 has two RS-232 communications ports referred to as COM1 and COM2 and a single IEEE-488 (GPIB) port. COM1 or the IEEE-488 port is for communicating with a host computer (see Section 4), and COM2 is reserved for communicating with an external device (e.g. an RPMx, a multimeter, etc.). These ports’ settings can be viewed and changed using [SPECIAL], <2remote>.

RPM4 has two remote communications formats, classic and ENHANCED (see Section 4.3). Which of these is active can be selected.

A self test is supplied for RS-232 communications. The self test allows verification that the RPM4 RS232 ports (COM1 and COM2) are operating properly and that a valid interface cable is being used.

3. OPERATION

 OPERATION

To access the communications settings, press [SPECIAL], <2Remote>.

• Select <1COM1> to view and edit COM1 settings (see Section 3.5.2.1.).

• Select <2COM2> to view and edit COM2 settings (see Section 3.5.2.1.).

• Select <3IEEE> to view and edit IEEE-488 settings (see Section 3.5.2.2).

• Select <4format> to select the remote communications command format (see Section 3.5.2.3).

• Select <5RS232test> to run the COM1 and COM2 communications test (see Section 3.5.2.4).

3.5.2.1 <1COM1, 2COM2>

The COMx ports can be set for specific communications settings. The settings are baud rate, parity, data bits and stop bits. The available options are:

Baud 300, 600, 1 200, 2 400, 4 800, 9 600, 19 200, 28 800, 38 400

Parity NONE, ODD or EVEN

Length 7 or 8

Stop Bit 1 or 2

The default is <2 400, E, 7,1> for both COM1 and COM2.

The user can also specify one or two termination characters as well as define these characters. These are referred to as “Term1” and “Term2”. These define the characters that mark the end of commands that are sent to the RPM4. The RPM4 looks for an ASCII(13) (carriage return) to terminate a received command but responds with both and ASCII(13) (carriage return) and an ASCII(10) (line feed). There are no other options.

3.5.2.2 <3IEEE-488>

The IEEE-488 port’s primary address can be set from 1 to 31 in this screen. The factory default value is 10. Secondary addressing is not used or supported. This address must not conflict with the address of any other device on the same IEEE-488 bus.

The receiving terminating character must be a line feed and EOI. Carriage returns are ignored if received. The RPM4 sends a line feed and asserts the EOI line to terminate a reply. These settings are fixed to agree with IEEE Std. 488.2. If you change the address, the IEEE interface will reset (PON) and become idle.

3.5.2.3 <4FORMAT>

The RPM4 has two different syntax formats available for the remote program commands.

The classic remote command format is highly intuitive and conforms with previous DHI PPC and RPM products.

The enhanced remote command format generally uses the same commands as the classic format, but in addition it follows the syntax, format, and status reporting features of IEEE Std 488.2.

The details of each format are covered in Section 4.3.

[SPECIAL], <2remote>, <4format> allows the remote program command syntax to be selected. The cursor is on the active format. Select <1classic> or <2enhanced> as desired.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.5.2.4 <5RS232 SELF-TEST>

The RS232 self-test is provided to check the RPM4 COM ports and the interface cable independently of an external device or computer.

If you are having difficulty communicating with RPM4 from a host computer using RS232, the RS232 self test can help establish that the RPM4 COM1 port

you are trying to communicate with and the interface cable you are using are good.

To run a self test of the RS232 ports (COM1 and COM2), press [SPECIAL], <2remote>, <5RS232test>.

The display prompts you to connect COM1 to COM2 using a standard pin-to-pin DB-9F to DB-9M RS232 cable (see Section 4.2.1.1, 4.2.1.3).

Once the cable has been installed, press [ENT] to run the self-test. The test is first executed in the COM1→COM2 direction and then in the COM2→COM1 direction.

If the COM1→COM2 test passes: <PASSED> displays briefly and the test

If COM2→COM1 passes: <PASSED> is displayed briefly followed

If a test fails: Execution is suspended until [ENT] is

proceeds to COM2→COM1.

by the conclusion, <The RS232 test has PASSED>.

pressed.

The RPM4 RS232 test can fail for three reasons:

1. The RS232 cable being used is incorrect (Section 4.2.1.1, 4.2.1.3 for

information on the correct cable).

2. COM1 and COM2 do NOT have the same serial communications settings

and therefore cannot communicate together (see Section 3.5.2.1 to set the COM ports).

3. COM1 or COM2 is defective.

The reason for failed communications is almost always a cable or incorrect

RS232 interface settings. Be sure that these are correct before concluding that a COM port is defective.

3.5.3 <3HEAD>

 PURPOSE

To view or change the properties of the HEAD function (see Section 3.3.7) including the unit of measure of length for head height entry and the test fluid type and species for density calculations.

 OPERATION

From the MAIN RUN screen, pressure [SPECIAL], <3Head>.

Select the desired height unit of measure and press [ENT].

Select <1gas> or <2liqud> depending on the pressurized medium between the RPM4 and the height at which pressure is to be calculated. Select the gas or liquid species. The liquid selection <3User>, is to create a custom liquid with a user entered density.

Use [HEAD] to set a head height if desired.

3. OPERATION

3.5.4 <4SDS>

 PURPOSE

To open and close SDS temporarily for the Hi or Lo Q-RPT or to turn the SDS function ON and OFF full time for the Hi or Lo Q-RPT.

See Section 3.2.7 for complete information on RPM4’s SDS (Self Defense System) feature.

 PRINCIPLE

SDS is a self defense system to protect RPM4 Q-RPTs from overpressure (see Section 3.2.7). Normally, opening and closing SDS is performed automatically by the RPM4 or by the operator using the [SDS] key.

[SPECIAL], <4SDS> gives further control over the SDS function. This includes: a) the possibility of temporarily opening or closing SDS on either the Hi or Lo Q-RPT (see Section 3.5.4.1), and; b) turning OFF SDS so that it is open full time and RPM4 can be operated as if SDS were not installed (see Section 3.5.4.2).

The temporary opening or closing of SDS allows the SDS open/closed state to be set immediately to the desired state. Following the change, normal automated operation of SDS and control using the [SDS] key is still valid. This function is often used to open SDS on the inactive Q-RPT in PRM4s with dual Q-RPTs.

Setting the SDS function to full time OFF eliminates the SDS function completely until is set to full time ON again.

3.5.4.1 <1TEMP OPEN/CLOSE>

 OPERATION

See Section 3.2.7 for complete information on RPM4’s SDS (Self Defense

System) feature.

To temporarily open or close the SDS of the Hi or Lo Q-RPT press [SPECIAL], <4SDS>, <1temp open/close>. If the RPM4 has two Q-RPTs and both have

SDS, the Q-RPT must then be selected. The next display is:

The cursor is on the current state of SDS for the designated Q-RPT. Select <1close> to close SDS or <2open> to open SDS and return to the MAIN RUN screen. [ESC] to return without making changes.

SDS temporary: Hi 1close 2open

If <2open> is selected and SDS for the Q-RPT is not already open, the SDS opening screen with indication of the maximum pressure of the Q-RPT is displayed. This is the same screen used when opening SDS using the [SDS] key (see Section 3.3.8). Check that the pressure applied to the Q-RPT module TEST(+) port does not exceed the Pmax! value before confirming that SDS should be opened.

Opening SDS with a pressure greater than Pmax! applied to the test port

may cause overpressure damage to the Q-RPT.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.5.4.2 <2FULL TIME ON/OFF>

See Section 3.2.7 for complete information on RPM4’s SDS (Self Defense

System) feature.

 OPERATION

Turning SDS “full time OFF” for a Q-RPT module eliminates normal SDS

operation so that the Q-RPT module TEST(+) port remains open. However, the SDS overpressure function (see Section 3.4.4.1) remains active.

To turn SDS full time ON or OFF for a Q-RPT module, press [SPECIAL], <4SDS>, <2full time on/off >. If the RPM4 has two Q-RPTs and both have SDS,

the Q-RPT must then be selected. The next display is:

The cursor is on the current state of SDS for the designated Q-RPT. Select <1on> to set SDS for normal operation and return to the main run screen. Select <2off> to open SDS permanently so operation is as if SDS were not installed.

SDS full time: Hi 1on 2off

[ESC] to return without making changes.

If <2off> is selected and SDS for the Q-RPT is not already open, the SDS opening screen with indication of the maximum pressure of the Q-RPT is displayed. This is the same screen used when opening SDS using the [SDS] key (see Section

3.3.8). Check that the pressure applied to the Q-RPT module TEST(+) port does not exceed the Pmax! value before confirming that SDS should be opened.

Opening SDS with a pressure greater than Pmax! applied to the test port

may cause overpressure damage to the Q-RPT.

3.5.5 <5PREFS>

 PURPOSE

To access a menu of RPM4 operational preferences and functions.

 OPERATION

To access the PREFS menu press [SPECIAL], <5prefs>. The display is:

The PREFS menu includes:

<1ScrSvr> View and change the screen saver activation time (see Section 3.5.5.1).

<2sound> View and change the keypress sounds (see Section 3.5.5.2).

<3time> View and edit the internal time and date settings (see Section 3.5.5.3).

<4ID> View the RPM4 serial number (SN) and view or edit the ID number

(see Section 3.5.5.4).

<4level> View and set user security level and/or password (see Section 3.5.5.5).

1ScrSvr 2sound 3time

4ID 5level

3. OPERATION

3.5.5.1 <1SCRSVR>

 PURPOSE

To adjust the idle time after which RPM4’s SCREEN SAVER activates.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 has a SCREEN SAVER function which causes the display to dim after a front panel key is NOT pressed for a certain amount of time. The default is for the screen saver to activate after 10 idle minutes. The screen saver activation time can be adjusted by the user or screen saving can be completely eliminated.

Setting screen saver time to zero eliminates the SCREEN SAVER function so

that the display permanently remains at full brightness.

 OPERATION

To access the SCREEN SAVER function, press [SPECIAL], <5prefs>, <1ScrSav>. Edit, in minutes, the idle time after which screen saver will activate

to dim the screen. Set the time to zero to eliminate the SCREEN SAVER function.

3.5.5.2 <2SOUND>

 PURPOSE

To adjust or suppress the RPM4 valid key press sound.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 provides audible feedback by a brief “beep” when a valid key press is made. The tone frequency of this beep may be selected from three choices or it may be completely suppressed. Invalid key presses are indicated by a descending two tone “blurp” which cannot be suppressed.

 OPERATION

To access the keypad sound adjustment function press [SPECIAL], <5prefs>, <2sound>.

Select between <2lo>, <3mid> or <4hi> to adjust the valid key press tone frequency.

Select <1none> to suppress the valid key press tone.

The sound function only affects the valid key press tone. The invalid key

press tone and other RPM4 sounds cannot be adjusted or suppressed.

3.5.5.3 <3TIME>

 PURPOSE

To view and edit the RPM4 internal time and date settings.

 OPERATION

To access the TIME function press [SPECIAL], <5prefs>, <3time>. The display is:

Edit: 1time 2date

08:32:11 am 20030125

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Select <1time> to edit the time. Edit hours, then minutes, then am/pm by pressing [ENT] after each entry. Seconds go to zero when minutes are entered. This can be used to synchronize the time with a time standard.

The RPM4 date and time are set to United States Mountain Standard Time

in the final test and inspection process at the factory. If desired, use the TIME and DATE function to set your local time and date.

3.5.5.4 <4ID>

 PURPOSE

To view or edit the RPM4 user ID and to view the RPM4 serial number.

 OPERATION

To access the ID function press [SPECIAL] and select <5prefs>, <2ID>.

Select <1view> to view the current ID.

Select <2edit> to edit the ID.

The ID has twelve characters. When the edit screen is opened, the cursor is on the first character. Numerical values can be entered directly from the keypad. In addition, the cursor control keys can be used to toggle through a list of available alphanumeric characters. Holding the key slews through the characters. Character order going up is: blank space, symbols, lower case letters, upper case letters, numbers. After selecting a character, press [ENT] to activate it and move to the next character field.

Select <2date> to edit the date. The date must be specified in YYYYMMDD format.

When a character is selected the cursor moves to the next character. To leave a blank character, press [ENT] with the field for that character blank. Use this for the trailing characters if the ID being entered is less than twelve characters.

After the last of the twelve characters has been entered, the <Save ID?> option is offered. Select <1no> to return to the ID edit screen. Select <2yes> to save the edited ID.

The ID can be set remotely from a computer which is quite a bit more

convenient than entering characters from the keyboard (see Section 4.4.4, ID command). The ID is not cleared or reset by any RESET function (see Section 3.5.9).

3.5.5.5 <5LEVEL> (SECURITY)

 PURPOSE

To set user protection levels to restrict access to certain functions and to edit the password required for changing user levels.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4’s front panel user interface provides the means to access all RPM4 user defined data, settings and functions including calibration data. Inadvertent, uninformed or unauthorized altering or deleting of data, settings and functions could require extensive reconfiguration by the user and might cause invalid readings and behavior. For these reasons, depending upon the application in which RPM4 is being used, it may be desirable to restrict access to some functions. The user level function provides a means of restricting access to certain functions. Four different levels of security are available.

3. OPERATION

Access to changing security levels can be left open, or be protected by a password.

Security Levels

The security levels are structured to support typical operating environments as follows:

None This level is intended for use only by the system manager and/or

calibration facility. It allows access and editing in all areas including critical metrological information.

Low Low security is designed to protect the specific metrological

information and SYSTEM DIAGNOSTIC AND MAINTENANCE functions of the system against accidental alteration. It is intended for an advanced operator performing many different tasks. Low security is the default user level setting.

Medium Medium security is designed to protect specific metrological

information in the system and to assure that the RPM4 is operated using consistent operational parameters.

High High security is designed to protect all operating parameters. It is

intended to minimize operator choices, for example to perform repeated identical calibrations under consistent conditions.

RPM4 is delivered with the security level set at low to avoid inadvertent

altering of critical internal settings but with access to changing security levels unrestricted. It is recommended that the low security level be maintained at all times. If there is a risk of unauthorized changing of the security level, changing authority should be password protected (see  OPERATION of this section).

The security levels are structured to support typical levels of operation as shown in Table 8. Specifically, the security levels prevent execution of the functions accessed by the key strokes marked by “•”:

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

FUNCTION LOW MEDIUM HIGH

[RANGE]

[ENT] (AutoTest)

[UNIT]

[MODE]

[AutoRange]

[LEAK CK]

[DISPLAY]

[HEAD]

[SDS]

[AutoZ] (in absolute mode)

[SETUP]

[SETUP], <1range>

[SETUP], <2res>

[SETUP], <4UL>

[SPECIAL]

[SPECIAL], <1AutoZ>

[SPECIAL], <1AutoZ>, <1on/1off>

[SPECIAL], <1AutoZ>, <3edit>

[SPECIAL], <2remote> [SPECIAL], <2remote>, make changes

[SPECIAL], <3head>

[SPECIAL], <4SDS>

[SPECIAL], <5pref>, <1ScrSvr>

[SPECIAL], <5pref>, <2sound>

[SPECIAL], <5pref>, <3time> [SPECIAL], <5pref>, <3time>, make changes

SPECIAL], <5pref>, <4ID>, <2edit>

[SPECIAL], <6Punit>

[SPECIAL], <7internal>

[SPECIAL], <7internal>, <3RPT2x> [SPECIAL], <7interrnal>, <5log>, clear log

[SPECIAL], <8cal> [SPECIAL], <8cal>, <2edit> under any selection

[SPECIAL], <4reset>

[SPECIAL], <4reset>, <4cal>

[SPECIAL], <4reset>, <5all>

Remote communications disabled

“•” indicates the function/menu is NOT accessible.

Table 8. Security Levels

•

• •

•

• •

•

• •

•

• •

•

• •

• • •

•

• •

• • •

• •

• • •

• •

• • •

• •

• • •

•

3. OPERATION

 OPERATION

RPM4 is delivered with no active password and access to the User Level menu is open. The user level is set to <1Low>. User levels can be changed freely until a password has been created.

To access the LEVEL function press [SPECIAL], <5prefs>, <5level>. The display is:

Selecting <1change user level> brings up the restriction menu:

1change user level

2edit password

Restrictions: 1none

2low 3medium 4high

The cursor is on the current restriction level. Select a different level or or [ESC] back to the MAIN RUN screen.

If no password is active, selecting <2edit password> displays the user

password and allows it to be edited.

Password: pppppp

0 disables password

Once a password has been entered, the user level cannot be changed without

reentering the password.

Passwords can be up to six numbers in length and cannot start with a zero. If <0> is entered, the password is made inactive and the user will not be required to enter a password to access the user level menu. This condition, with a security level of <2low>, is the factory default.

If there is an active password, the RPM4 password entry screen appears. The user must enter the user defined password or the factory secondary

RPM4 SNnnnn-xx

Password: pppppp

password to proceed further:

The first field, <nnnn>, is the serial number of the RPM4, followed by a second field, <xx>, that represents the number of times that a secondary password has been used. The second field, <xx>, increments each time a secondary password is

used. The third field, <pppppp> is for user entry of the normal password.

The factory secondary password is available in case the user’s password has

been misplaced or forgotten. It can be obtained by contacting a DHI Authorized Service Center (see Table 29). The factory secondary

password

is different for all RPM4’s and changes each time it is used.

3.5.6 <6PUNIT>

 PURPOSE

To customize the selection of pressure units of measure that are available in the [UNIT] key menu.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

 PRINCIPLE

The [UNIT] function key makes available a choice of six default pressure units (US or SI units depending on whether the RPM4 has been factory set as US or SI) (see Section 3.3.2). RPM4 also supports many commonly used units other than those included in the default set up. These units can be made available for active selection by customizing the UNIT function using [SPECIAL], <6PresU>. This allows RPM4 to offer a very wide selection of units while simplifying day to day operation. The typical user customizes the [UNIT] function key to support his/her six most commonly used units.

 OPERATION

To customize the [UNIT] function key, from the MAIN RUN screen press [SPECIAL], <6PresU>. The display is:

1. Entry field to specify which unit position (1 to 6) of the [UNIT] function key menu is to be changed.

Set up unit #6

Enter the number of the unit position that you would like to change. The display becomes:

Unit#6 1SI 2other

3altitude 4user

Select the desired pressure unit category (SI units include units based on SI units such as

mmHg), then select the desired unit from the unit menu. The units of measure available are listed in Table 9.

Table 9. UNIT Function - Available Units of Measure

<1SI> <2OTHER> <3ALTITUDE> <4USER>

<1Pa> <2hPa> <3kPa>

<4MPa>

<5mbar>

<6bar>

<7mmHg>

<8mmWa>

<1psi>

<2psf> <3inHg> <4inWa>

<5kcm2>

<6Torr>

<7mTor>

<1feet>

<2meters>

If <4user> is selected, the user unit must be defined. The display is:

Define user unit:

1. Entry field.

1.000000 unit/Pa

Enter the number of user units per Pascal (Pa) in the entry field. Pressing [ENT] defines the user unit and returns to the <Set up unit #n> screen.

The user defined unit label can be customized to any alphanumeric, four character label

using the remote command “UDU” (see Section 4.4.4).

See Section 7.2.1 for the pressure unit conversion factors used by RPM4.

3. OPERATION

3.5.7 <7INTERNAL>

 PURPOSE

To view, set, adjust, and maintain various aspects of RPM4’s internal operation.

 OPERATION

To access the internal selections press [SPECIAL], <7internal>. The display is:

1baro 2ReadRt 3RPT2x 4lo vnt 5log

The INTERNAL menu choices include: <1baro> View the real time output of the on-board barometer, if present (see Section

3.5.7.1).

<2ReadRt> Turn ON and OFF RPM4’s automated, rate of change dependent, reading

integration rate feature (see Section 3.5.7.2).

<3RPT2x> Enable and disable RPM4 parallel measurement mode in which two Q-RPT

modules are used to measure in parallel and their readings are averaged (see Section 3.5.7.3).

<4lo vnt> Operate Q-RPT module Gxxx and BGxxx low VENT valve directly

(see Section 3.4.7.4).

<5log> View the RPM4 incident log (see Section 3.5.7.5).

3.5.7.1 <1BARO>

 PURPOSE

To view the value of atmospheric pressure as measured by the RPM4 on-board barometer.

There is no on-board barometer in RPM4s that have G100K or G200K

Q-RPTs only”.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4’s that include an Axxx (absolute) and/or BGxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPT are equipped with a separate, on-board barometer. The atmospheric pressure measurements made by the on-board barometer are used for dynamic compensation of atmospheric pressure when using an Axxx Q-RPT to make gauge pressure measurements (see Sections 3.3.3,  PRINCIPLE and 3.2.2) and for static pressure compensation when using a G15K or BG15K Q-RPT.

See Section 5.5, Figure 7 and Section 5.6, Figure 8 for a photo and

The on-board barometer is a low accuracy sensor used only for measuring

schematics showing the position of the on-board barometer in RPM4.

small changes in atmospheric pressure over short periods of time (see Section 3.2.2) and for line pressure compensation when using a G15K or BG15K Q-RPT. RPM4 measurement uncertainty does not depend on the measurement uncertainty of the on-board barometer.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

RPM4’s that have only G100K or G200K Q-RPTs (no Axxx, G15K or BG15K)

are NOT equipped with an on-board barometer.

 OPERATION

To view the current reading of the on-board barometer press [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <1baro>. The display is in the active pressure unit of measure

(see Section 3.3.2). The display resolution is fixed to 0.01 Pa, or its equivalent.

3.5.7.2 <2READRT>

 PURPOSE

To turn ON and OFF RPM4’s automated, rate of change dependent, reading integration rate feature.

 PRINCIPLE

To obtain maximum resolution from RPM4 Q-RPT pressure measurements, an integration time of about 1.2 second per reading is used. In most situations, maximum precision is needed when pressures are stable so a relatively slow display update rate presents no disadvantage. However, when pressure is changing quickly, more rapid pressure updates are usually more important than obtaining maximum precision on individual readings. The RPM4 read rate function automatically adjusts pressure measurement integration time depending on the rate of change of pressure. When pressure is changing rapidly, reading rate is increased. When pressure is evolving slowly, reading rate is decreased and maximum precision is obtained.

When the automated read rate function is ON, three pressure rate of change dependent read rates are used. The result is three display update rates:

Table 10. READRT - Display Update Rates

PRESSURE

RATE OF CHANGE

> 3 % of range span/s > 0.5 and < 3 % of range span/s < 0.5 % of range span/s

DISPLAY

UPDATE

≈ 0.2 s ≈ 0.6 s ≈ 1.2 s

For situations in which maximum reading precision is desired regardless of pressure rate of change, the RPM4 automated read rate function can be turned OFF. In this case, the reading rate is always the high resolution rate of about 1.2 seconds per reading.

 OPERATION

To turn the automated read rate function ON or OFF or check its current status, press [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <3ReadRt>.

The display is:

Auto read rate: 1on 2off

The cursor is on the current selection.

3. OPERATION

Selecting <1on> activates the automated reading rate and returns to the MAIN RUN screen. Selecting <2off> turns OFF the automated reading rate and returns to the MAIN RUN screen.

The default RPM4 condition is auto read rate ON. The read rate can be set to a fixed value between 200 ms and 20000 ms using the remote command “READRATEn” (See Section 4.4.4).

Auto read rate ON/OFF is NOT Q-RPT or range specific. Turning auto read

rate ON or OFF in one range turns it ON or OFF for all RPM4 ranges.

3.5.7.3 <3RPT2X>

 PURPOSE

To enable and disable the RPM4 parallel measurement mode in which two Q-RPT modules are used to measure in parallel and their readings are averaged.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4s that have two Q-RPT modules of the same type (Axxx, Gxxx or BGxxx) support parallel measurement mode. In this mode, both Q-RPTs are used to measure the same pressure in parallel and their readings are averaged.

Parallel measurement mode sets up a third Q-RPT designated HL (combination of Hi and Lo). The HL RPT can be selected by the [RANGE] function and supports other RPM4 functions such as UNIT, MODE and DISPLAY.

When parallel measurement mode is set up, the resulting HL Q-RPT can be a third Q-RPT in addition to the Hi and Lo RPTs. It is also possible to make the HL Q-RPT the sole Q-RPT, suppressing the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs. This feature is used when an RPM4 will always be used in parallel measurement mode and the availability of the individual Hi and Lo Q-RPTs is not desired.

[SPECIAL], <7internal>, <3RPT2x> is used to set up or suppress parallel measurement mode in RPM4s that support it.

In parallel measurement mode, the maximum pressure is the maximum

pressure of the Lo Q-RPT.

 OPERATION

Parallel measurement mode is only available on RPM4s with two Q-RPTs of

the same type (Axxx, Gxxx, BGxxx).

To access the parallel measurement mode enable/disable function press [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <3RPT2x>.

The cursor is on the number corresponding to the current setting. Select <1off> to disable parallel measurement mode. This will eliminate the HL

Q-RPT. Select <2on> to enable parallel measurement mode. This creates the HL

parallel mode Q-RPT. The Hi and Lo Q-RPTs are also still available. Select <3on, w / Hi & Lo RPT off> to enable parallel measurement mode and

disable access to the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs individually. This creates the HL parallel mode Q-RPT and makes it the sole Q-RPT available for selection.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Operation returns to normal when the disagreement between the two Q-RPTs returns to normal.

When using parallel measurement mode, the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs should be

connected IN PARALLEL to the pressure to be measured (both Q-RPTs connected to the same pressure). The measured pressure indicated in parallel measurement mode is the average of the Hi and Lo Q-RPTs.

3.5.7.4 <4LO VNT>

 PURPOSE

To cause an RPM4’s Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT TEST(-) vent valve to stay open or closed rather than open and close automatically.

This feature is active only when the active Q-RPT is a Gxxx (gauge) or

BGxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPT.

 PRINCIPLE

An RPM4 equipped with a Gxxx (gauge) or BGxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPT has a TEST(-) vent valve in its Q-RPT module (see Figure 8, Gxxx, BGxxx, Valve C).

The TEST(-) vent valve is used to open the TEST(-) port to atmosphere which also connects the Q-RPT and the device or system under test low side to atmosphere. In normal RPM4 operation, the TEST(-) valve is closed to isolate the low pressure circuit from fluctuations in ambient pressure when the Q-RPT is being used to measure pressure. It is open only when SDS is closed (see Section 3.2.7).

However, it may be desirable to open the TEST(-) port to atmosphere while measuring pressure and/or without closing SDS. For example, this may be necessary to assure that the pressure on the low side of the Q-RPT and the system under test does not move too far away from atmosphere. [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <4lo vnt> allows the TEST(-) vent valve to be set to be permanently open, permanently closed or to operate in its default, automated condition. It also allows the current status of the valve to be viewed.

 OPERATION

The normal, default setting for the TEST(-) vent valve is <1auto> in which RPM4

automatically controls the valve based on current Q-RPT module operation. Setting other than <1auto> should only be selected by advanced users.

To access the LO VNT function press [SPECIAL], <7internal>, <4lo vent>. If the RPM4 does not have a Gxxx (gauge) or BGxxx (bi-directional gauge) Q-RPT, the display is: <Available with Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT only>. If the RPM4 has more than one Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPTs, the Hi or Lo Q-RPT must be selected.

The next display is:

Test(-) vent:1auto

2open 3close 4view

Select <1auto> for the TEST(-) vent valve operation to be controlled automatically by RPM4 based on current operation. This is the default and recommended setting.

Select <2open> to cause the TEST(-) valve to open and remain open regardless of RPM4 operation until the setting is changed. If RPM4 detects a condition

3. OPERATION

in which it determines there could be a risk of overpressure to the Q-RPT by opening the TEST(-) vent valve, the message <Cannot open lo vent, DP overpressure risk> is displayed. If this message is displayed, return to normal operation, vent the RPM4 Q-RPT module and try again.

Select <3close> to cause the TEST(-) vent valve to close and remain closed regardless of RPM4 operation until the setting is changed.

Select <4view> to view the current condition of the TEST(-) valve. The display indicates whether current valve operation is controlled by the RPM4 (<Auto TEST(-) vent>) or has been set manually (<Manual TEST(-) vent>) followed by the current valve status (<Open> or <Close>).

If the RPM4 is being used as an external device to a PPC3 pressure controller

(see Section 3.5.7.4), the Lo Vent setting may be changed from the PPC3 (see the PPC3 Operation and Maintenance Manual).

3.5.7.5 <5LOG>

 PURPOSE

To view and/or clear the RPM4 event log.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 records to a log each time one of the following events occurs:

• Pmax! of an internal RPM4 Q-RPT or utility sensor is exceeded (see Section

3.4.4.1).

• A memory fault occurs.

 OPERATION

To view the event log press [SPECIAL], <9Log>.

Use [

] and [ ] to move back and forth between older and newer log entries.

Each log entry has two screens, one with the event description and one with the even time and date. Use [ oldest logged event appears.

After the last log has been viewed, the option to clear the log, <1no>, <2yes> is presented. Use <2yes> to remove all entries from the log. Use <1no> to continue without altering the log.

To leave the log, use [ESC].

3.5.8 <8CAL>

 PURPOSE

] and [ ] to toggle between the two screens. The

To calibrate the RPM4 Hi and Lo Q-RPTs and adjust the on-board barometer. These functions are considered part of RPM4 maintenance and are covered in the maintenance section of this manual (see Sections 5.2, 5.3).

 PRINCIPLE

See Sections 5.2, 5.3.

 OPERATION

See Sections 5.2, 5.3.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

3.5.9 <9RESET>

 PURPOSE

To reset various RPM4 settings to default or factory values.

 PRINCIPLE

RPM4 stores its user definable settings in non-volatile memory. The reset menu allows the user to selectively or completely reset these settings to factory defaults. This clears any settings that the user has made, and should be used only to restore the RPM4 to a known state. RPM4 goes through its power up sequence after any type of reset is executed.

RPM4 reset functions will change current settings to factory defaults. These may include

settings vital to RPM4 operation and affecting the calibration of the quartz reference pressure transducers (Q-RPTs). Reset functions should only be used by qualified personnel with knowledge of reset consequences. Reset functions should never be used “experimentally”.

 OPERATION

To access the RESET menu, press [SPECIAL], <9reset>. The display is:

1sets 2units 3ATest

4cal 5all

RESET menu choices include:

<1set> to reset general system operating parameters (see Section 3.5.9.1).

<2units> to reset unit of measure functions (see Section 3.5.9.2).

<3ATest> to reset AutoTest parameters and clear the AutoTest data log (see Section 3.5.9.3).

<4cal> to reset internal calibration coefficients and modes (see Section 3.5.9.4).

<5all> to reset all settings except ID and security password to factory default values

(see Section 3.5.9.5).

3.5.9.1 <1SETS>

 PURPOSE

Sets most general operating parameters back to default values. Does not affect calibration coefficients, remote interfaces or AutoRange ranges. The Reset – Sets resets are itemized in Table 11.

3. OPERATION

Table 11. Reset – Sets

RESET RESULT SEE SECTION

[UNIT]

[MODE]

[RANGE]

[HEAD]

Stability Limit 0.005 % of Hi Q-RPT default range 3.4.3

Upper Limit Hi Q-RPT default range default value 3.4.4

Resolution 0.001 % FS of Hi Q-RPT default range 3.4.2

AutoZ AutoZ ON for all Q-RPTs and measurement modes.

AutoZ

Leak Check 15 second run time. Clear logged results 3.3.5

Screen Saver 10 minutes to activation 3.5.5.1

Key Sounds Medium tone valid key press sound 3.5.5.2

Lo Vnt Automatic 3.5.7.4

ReadRate Automatic 3.5.7.2

Pressure unit of measure to first of the six available 3.3.2

Measurement mode to the native mode of the Q-RPT 3.3.3

Hi Q-RPT default range 3.3.1

0 cm height and Nitrogen medium 3.3

value not affected

offset

set to 101.325 kPa a

atm,0

3.5.1

3.5.1, 3.2.2

3.5.9.2 <2 UNITS>

 PURPOSE

Sets the six pressure units available under the UNIT function to the SI or US default selections depending on whether the RPM4 has been factory set for SI or US (see Section 3.3.2).

Sets the user defined unit to 1.000/Pa (see Section 3.5.6).

Sets the reference temperature for inWa unit to 20°C.

3.5.9.3 <3ATEST>

 PURPOSE

• Resets Auto Tests to default characteristics (see Section 3.3.10).

• Clears AutoTest data log (see Section 3.4.5).

3.5.9.4 <4 CAL>

 PURPOSE

The Reset - Cal function will reset Q-RPT, utility sensor and barometer

calibration coefficients and settings and reset AutoZ values to zero. This will change the RPM4 calibration and could cause it to make out of tolerance measurements.

Clears all user values affecting the calibration of Q-RPTs and the on-board barometer. The Reset – Cal resets are itemized in Table 12.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

RESET RESULT SEE SECTION

All Q-RPT Calibration Coefficients

Axxx Q-RPT absolute and negative gauge mode

On-board Barometer Calibration Coefficients

Calibration Date Set all dates to 19800101 5.2.7, 5.3

AutoZ values Axxx Q-RPTs: All P

AutoZ function ON, all Q-RPTs, all measurement modes 3.5.1

3.5.9.5 <5 ALL>

Table 12. Reset – Cal

PA to zero, PM to 1 5.2.1.1, 5.2.7

ON 5.2.5

PA to zero, PM to 1 5.3

values to zero for absolute mode and 101325 Pa for gauge and negative gauge modes

Gxxx, BGxxx Q-RPTs: All P

offset

values to zero

offset

3.5.1

The reset - all function clears and deletes large amounts of user defined

information including critical calibration data.

 PURPOSE

Combines all resets in one global reset command that clears the entire user section of non-volatile memory except the ID function (see Section 3.5.5.4) and the security level password (see Section 3.5.5.5) returning RPM4 to the “as delivered” condition. The Reset – All resets are itemized in Table 13.

Table 13. Reset – All

RESET RESULT SEE SECTION

Reset – Sets All the resets of Reset - Sets 3.5.9.1

Reset – Units All the resets of Reset - Units 3.5.9.2

Reset – Atest All the resets of Reset - ATest 3.5.9.3

Reset – Cal All the resets of Reset - Cal 3.5.9.4

Remote Interfaces COM1, COM2 and IEEE-R88 interfaces to

default settings.

Remote Communications Remote command format to Classic 3.5.2.3

Level (Security) Reset security level to low 3.5.5.5

Parallel Measurement Mode Off 3.5.7.3

SDS All SDS full time ON 3.5.4.2

3.5.2

4. REMOTE OPERATION

44..

EEMMOOTTEE

PPEERRAATTIIOON

4.1 OVERVIEW

Most of the RPM4 front panel functions can also be executed by commands from a remote computer. The host computer can communicate to the RPM4 using the RPM4’s COM1 RS232 port or it’s IEEE-488 port.

Before writing test code using RPM4 remote commands, familiarize yourself with its operating principles by reading Section 3 of this manual.

4.2 INTERFACING

Sending a program message to the RPM4 places it into remote mode. The remote indicator to the right of the display window lights when the RPM4 is in remote mode. It also flickers when a program message is received. The menus usually accessed from the front panel are locked out while in remote. The [ESC] key returns the RPM4 to local operation unless the <REMOTE> program message, which locks out all keypad operation, was sent to the unit.

4.2.1 RS232 INTERFACE

4.2.1.1 COM1

The RPM4 COM1 RS232 interface is located on the back of the unit. It is a 9-pin male DB-9F connector configured as a DCE device. Data is transmitted out of the unit using pin 2, and is received on pin 3. This allows a normal pin-to-pin DB-9M to DB-9F RS232 cable to be used to connect to a DTE host.

Handshaking is not required or supported. The COM1 receive buffer is 80 bytes deep. If you overflow the buffer by sending too much data, the data will be lost. Because of this, you must send a single program message at a time and you must wait for the RPM4 to reply from the previous command before issuing another command.

Table 14. COM1 Pin Designations and Connections

RPM4 COM1 DB-9F PIN DESIGNATIONS

PIN # FUNCTION DESCRIPTION

2 TxD This pin transmits serial data from the RPM4 to the host. 3 RxD This pin accepts serial data from the host computer. 5 Grn This pin is the common return for the TxD and RxD signals.

IBM PC/XT DB-9F

CONNECTIONS

DB-25M DB-9F DB-9M DB-9F

2 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 7 5 5 5

IBM PC/XT DB-9M TO RPM4 DB9F

CONNECTION

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

4.2.1.2 IEEE-488

The RPM4 IEEE-488 interface is located on the back of the unit. The physical and electrical interface conforms to IEEE Std 488.1-1987 Subset E2 and IEEE Std. 488.2-1992. You should not attempt to communicate with the IEEE-488 interface while using the COM1 interface. The IEEE-488 receive buffer is 250 bytes deep. If you attempt to overflow the buffer, the RPM4 will hold off release of the NRFD handshake line until it can service and empty the receive buffer. This keeps the buffer from overflowing. It is recommended that you check for errors using the “ERR?” query after sending a group of non-query program messages. When using queries, ensure that you wait for a reply to each query to ensue proper operation and order of command execution. Replies to queries remain in the reply queue until the host gets them, so they can “stack up”, causing replies to appear out of sequence.

4.2.1.3 COM2

The RPM4 COM2 RS232 interface is located on the back of the unit. It can be used to allow the host computer to communicate with another device through the RPM4. This allows the user to use one host COM port to communicate with the RPM4 and an additional RS232 device. Refer to the “#” remote program command for details. When using the RPM4 as a reference for a PPC3, another RPM4 can be connected to the first RPM4’s COM2 port, allowing the PPC3 to communicate with both RPM4s (see Section 3.2.5).

COM2 is a 9-pin female DB-9F connector configured as a DTE device. Data is transmitted out of the RPM4 using pin 3, and is received on pin 2. This allows a normal pin-to-pin DB-9M to DB-9F RS232 cable to be used to connect to a DCE device.

Handshaking is not required or supported.

Table 15. COM2 DB-9F Pin Designations

PIN # FUNCTION DESCRIPTION

2 RxD This pin transmits serial data from the RPM4 to a device. 3 TxD This pin accepts serial data from the external device. 4 DTR This pin is Data Terminal Ready (DTR) (held at + 5 V). 5 Grn This pin is the common return for the TxD and RxD signals.

4.3 PROGRAMMING FORMATS

RPM4 supports two program message formats, the “classic”, and the “enhanced” formats. The user must select which format to use. Selection can be accomplished from the front panel (see Section

3.5.2.3) or remotely using the “L2” or “L3” program message (see Section 4.4.4). The ”MSGFMT” command can also be used to select the format, but is not recommended for new designs.

The main difference between the “classic” and “enhanced” formats is that when using the IEEE-488 interface, a query operator “?” must be included in an enhanced command to yield a reply from the RPM4. When using the COM1 port in classic or enhanced mode or using the IEEE-488 port in classic mode, every command has a reply which the host must wait for before continuing. In addition, the enhanced message format supports IEEE Std 488.2 syntax, format and status reporting. The default is the classic format.

In either format, it is recommended that you start out a command sequence with the “*CLS” command, which clears all of the communication and error queues. The basic commands are similar for both the classic and enhanced formats, but the usage, syntax, format and status reporting are different.

Many RPM4 classic and enhanced commands are common with PPC2+, PPCK+ and PPC3 Pressure/Controller Calibrators.

4. REMOTE OPERATION

4.3.1 CLASSIC PROGRAM MESSAGE FORMAT

Each program message sent is also a query. You can only send one program message to the RPM4 at time. After sending any program message, you must wait for the RPM4 to reply before sending another program message. This reply will contain data, or a numeric error message if the program message was invalid. You must wait for this reply before issuing another program message to the RPM4. This insures that the RPM4 has completed the program message. Most remote program messages will return a reply within 500 ms except:

“PR?”, “PRR?”, “SR?”, “ATM?”, “RATE?”: Up to 2 seconds.

“RPT”, “ARANGE”, “AUTOZERO=RUN”: Up to 3 seconds

The syntax and format used for each program message in the classic mode is listed next to the keyword “Classic”’ in each program message summary in Section 4.4.4.

4.3.2 ENHANCED PROGRAM MESSAGE FORMAT

The enhanced program message format uses the IEEE Std. 488.2 format, syntax and status reporting. Errors are reported using the IEEE Std. 488.2 status reporting model. If an error is reported, the error is put into an Error Queue and the “ERR?” query program message can be used to get a text description of the most recent error. If you are using the IEEE-488 port, the service request line can be setup to be asserted if this occurs (see Section 4.5.2). In the enhanced format, there are two possible program message types for every program message. Each of these two types starts with the same basic text referred to as the program message header. The two types are COMMAND type and QUERY type commands.

4.3.2.1 USING COMMAND TYPE COMMANDS

Enhanced format commands DO NOT reply when using the IEEE-488

interface unless a “?” is included in the command. Do not expect a response from the RPM4’s IEEE-488 interface to non-query (no “?”) commands as there is none. Remote software will time-out waiting for a response from RPM4. However, in RS232 communications, there is always a response and the response MUST be read prior to issuing another command.

The COMMAND type of program message executes a process and can additionally send data to the RPM4 in the form of comma delimited arguments. This data is usually a setting of some sort that is stored in the RPM4. If data is specified, it must be preceded by at least one white space from the program message header and be within the range and format described in the program message description. The keyword “Command:” appears to the left of the required syntax in each program message description in Section 4.4.4.

If you are using the IEEE-488 port, the Command type does not generate a reply unless you place a query operator “?” immediately after the command. You also may send multiple program messages at once by separating each program message with a semicolon. The commands are queued and executed in as received order after the entire message stream has been received, so care in determining order of execution is needed.

If you are using the RS232 port COM1, the Command type will always generate a reply so you must wait for a reply before issuing another program message. Because of this, you can only send one Command program message at a time while using the COM1 port.

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Examples:

• IEEE-488 enhanced mode command series using query operator:

“*CLS?” (Clear the error queue. Wait for reply) “UNIT? KPA” (Generates a reply. User must wait for reply before continuing) “MMODE? A” (Generates a reply. User must wait for reply before continuing) “PR?” (Generates a reply. User must wait for reply before continuing)

• IEEE-488 enhanced mode commands without query operator:

“*CLS” (Clear the error queue. No reply) “UNIT KPA” (No reply) “MMODE A” (No reply) “ERR?” (Wait for reply. User should use “ERR?” query following a

series of non query commands to check for errors that may have occurred)

• IEEE-488 enhanced mode multiple commands without query operator:

“*CLS” (Clear the error queue. No reply) “UNIT KPA;MMODE A” (Two command at once. No reply) “ERR?” (Wait for reply. User should use “ERR?”

query following a series of non query commands to check for errors that may have occurred)

• COM1 enhanced mode command:

“*CLS” or “*CLS?” (Clear the error queue. Wait for reply) “UNIT KPA” or “UNIT? KPA” (Generates a reply. User must wait for

reply before continuing)

“MMODE A” or “MMODE? A” (Generates a reply. User must wait for

reply before continuing)

“PR” or “PR?” (Generates a reply. User must wait for

reply before continuing)

4.3.2.2 USING QUERY TYPE COMMANDS

The QUERY type of program message just requests data from the RPM4. Placing the query operator “?” immediately after the command creates a query. You must wait for a reply with a query. If you send any type of program message to the RPM4 after a query before receiving a reply, the program message is discarded and an error is generated. Errors are reported using the IEEE Std. 488.2 status reporting model. A Query program message always ends with a question mark. Most queries return a reply within 200 ms except:

“PR?”, “PRR?”, “SR?”, “ATM?”, “RATE?”: Up to 2 seconds.

“RPT”, “ARANGE”, “AUTOZERO RUN”: Up to 3 seconds

The syntax for using a QUERY program message is listed next to the keyword “Query:” in each program message summary in Section 4.4.4. Please note that queries in enhanced mode via the IEEE-488 port that results in an error will not result in a reply. You must check the error queue (use the “ERR” querie) to see if an error has occurred.

4. REMOTE OPERATION

4.4 COMMANDS

4.4.1 PROGRAMMING MESSAGES

Some commands accept an optional suffix. This suffix can be used to specify the explicit Q-RPT to address. In most cases, each Q-RPT in the RPM4 operates as an independent measurement device. If the suffix is not specified, then the “Active” Q-RPT is assumed. The “RANGE” or “ARANGE” command can be used to select the “Active” Q-RPT. There are some limitations to use of the suffix when the RPM4 is in differential mode (see Section

3.3.3.1) or the “HL” Q-RPT is active (see Section 3.2.4). See the program message descriptions for suffix use with a specific command.

Table 16. Program Message List

COMMAND

‘n’ indicates an

optional suffix

# ABORT ARANGEn ATM AUTOZEROn AUTOZEROn=RUN CALAMB COM1 COM2 CONTn DATE ERR GPIB HEAD ID L2 L3 LLn

LOCAL MEM MMODEn MSGFMT NVENTn PCALn PCAL:XX PRn PRRn QPRRn RANGE RATEn READRATEn READYCKn REMOTE RESn RESET RPTn SCRSAV SDSn SDSACT SDSAUTOn SN SRn SSn SS%n TIME UCOEFn UDU

Send a command string out of the RPM4 COM2 port. Stop pending operations Read or set a new AutoRange to use.

Read the current atmospheric pressure (on-board barometer). Read or set the status of the AutoZ automatic zeroing function. Run AutoZero. Read or set the on-board barometer calibration Read or set the configuration of the COM1 port. Read or set the configuration of the COM2 port. Enable continuous measurements Read or set the current date. Read the last error message. Read or set the GPIB interface address. Read or set the fluid head settings. Read or set the RPM4 alphanumeric asset ID tag. Selects “classic” program message format Selects “enhanced” program message format Read or set the lower limit for the current range (negative gauge and differential modes only). Return control to the RPM4 front panel. Read the power-up memory test status. Read or change the active measurement mode. Read or set the type of program message format to use. Read or set the status of low vent valve (Gxxx or BGxxx Q-RPT only) Read or set the user Lo Q-RPT calibration information. Read or set the user Lo Q-RPT calibration information (old command). Read the next RPM4 pressure. Read the next RPM4 pressure, rate, and ATM. Read the last RPM4 pressure, rate and ATM. Select a Q-RPT to be “active” in it’s default full scale range Read the next available rate of change of pressure. Read or set the Q-RPT measurement read rate and mode Read or set a flag that is cleared by a Not Ready condition. Enable remote local lockout operation. Read or set the pressure display resolution for the current Q-RPT and range. Reset the RPM4 to default user parameters. Read the available Q-RPT data. Read or set the front panel screen saver period. Read or set the SDS state for a specific Q-RPT Read or set the active Q-RPT SDS state Read or set the SDS mode for a specific Q-RPT Read the serial number of the RPM4. Read the next available pressure status (Ready/Not Ready). Read or set the stability required for a Ready condition. Read or set the stability required for a Ready condition (% span/ s). Read or set the current time of day. Convert a pressure in Pascal to pressure in the current units. Read or set the user defined pressure unit.

DESCRIPTION

RPM4™ OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

COMMAND

‘n’ indicates an

optional suffix

ULn UNITn VER ZOFFSETn ZOFFSET:XX

Read or set the upper limit for the current range. Read or set the pressure unit of measure for the current range. Read the RPM4 software version. Read or set the AutoZero Z Read or set the AutoZ Z

4.4.2 ERROR MESSAGESS

Table 17. Error #s and Descriptions

REPLY DESCRIPTION

ERR# 0 “OK” ERR# 2 “Text argument is too long” ERR# 3 “Arguments cannot be 0” ERR# 4 “External device not detected” ERR# 5 Not used ERR# 6 “Numeric argument missing or out of range” ERR# 7 “Missing or improper command argument(s)” ERR# 8 “External device time-out error”

ERR# 9 “Unknown command” ERR# 10 “Missing or invalid command suffix” ERR# 11 “Command missing argument” ERR# 12 “System overpressured” or “overpressure may result” ERR# 13 “Text queue overflow” ERR# 14 “User unit not defined” ERR# 17 Not used ERR# 18 “Command not yet available” ERR# 19 “Not available with absolute units” ERR# 20 “Not available with gauge device” ERR# 21 Not used ERR# 22 “Pressure is not stable” ERR# 23 “Option not available or installed” ERR# 25 Not used ERR# 26 “COM port failed to initialize” ERR# 27 “Internal device failure” ERR# 28 “Device failure” ERR# 29 “Device not available” ERR# 30 “Must be on range HI” ERR# 31 “Exceeds upper or lower limit” ERR# 32 “Not stable enough” ERR# 37 “Data table is full” ERR# 38 “Selected range is not available” ERR# 39 “Data verify error” ERR# 45 “Argument not allowed” ERR #46 “Argument cannot be negative” ERR #52 “Command obsolete” ERR# 53 “Not Available”

DESCRIPTION

for the specified Q-RPT.

offset

for the specified Q-RPT (old command).

offset

4. REMOTE OPERATION

4.4.3 PROGRAM MESSAGE DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

Purpose A brief description of the programs message’s function. Command This is the Enhanced program message syntax to send data to the RPM4 or to execute an

Query This is the Enhanced program message syntax to request data from the RPM4. The RPM4

Classic This is the Classic program message syntax to send data to the RPM4, to execute an

Suffix Some commands support an optional suffix. This suffix is used to specify a Q-RPT to which

Arguments If the program message can be used to set data inside the RPM4, then this section describes

Default If the program message can be used to set data inside the RPM4, then this line shows

Remarks This field has the details and remarks about the command. Example Examples are given for the enhanced and classic methods.

Errors If the program message can report an argument error, the types of errors are listed.

DH Instruments RPM4, RPM4 - VERSION 2004 Operation And Maintenance Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual