GE Sensing GS868 Operating Manual

GE

Measurement & Control Flow

DigitalFlow™ GS868

Panametrics Steam Ultrasonic Mass Flowmeter

Programming Manual (2-Channel)

910-190P2 Rev. E

February 2015

DigitalFlow™ GS868

Panametrics Steam Ultrasonic Mass Flowmeter

Programming Manual (2-Channel)

910-190P2 Rev. E
February 2015

www.ge-mcs.com

©2015 General Electric Company. All rights reserved.

Technical content subject to change without notice.

[no content intended for this page]

ii

Preface

Information Paragraphs

Note: These paragraphs provide information that provides a deeper understanding of the situation, but is not

essential to the proper completion of the instructions.

IMPORTANT: These paragraphs provide information emphasizing instructions which are essential to proper setup of

the equipment. Failure to follow these instructions carefully may cause unreliable performance.

WARNING! Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which can result in serious personal
injury or death, if it is not avoided.

CAUTION! Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which can result in minor or moderate
injury to personnel or damage to the equipment, if it is not avoided.

HIGH VOLTAGE! This symbol indicates the presence of high voltage. It calls your attention to
situations or operations that could be dangerous to you and other persons operating the
equipment. Read these messages and follow the instructions carefully.

Safety Issues

WARNING! It is the responsibility of the user to make sure all local, county, state and national

codes, regulations, rules and laws related to safety and safe operating conditions are met for
each installation.

Auxiliary Equipment

Local Safety Standards

The user must make sure that he operates all auxiliary equipment in accordance with local codes, standards,
regulations, or laws applicable to safety.

Working Area

WARNING! Auxiliary equipment may have both manual and automatic modes of operation. As
equipment can move suddenly and without warning, do not enter the work cell of this equipment
during automatic operation, and do not enter the work envelope of this equipment during
manual operation. If you do, serious injury can result.

WARNING! Make sure that power to the auxiliary equipment is turned OFF and locked out
before you perform maintenance procedures on the equipment.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) iii

Preface

Qualification of Personnel

Make sure that all personnel have manufacturer-approved training applicable to the auxiliary equipment.

Personal Safety Equipment

Make sure that operators and maintenance personnel have all safety equipment applicable to the auxiliary equipment.
Examples include safety glasses, protective headgear, safety shoes, etc.

Unauthorized Operation

Make sure that unauthorized personnel cannot gain access to the operation of the equipment.

Environmental Compliance

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

GE Measurement & Control is an active participant in Europe’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
take-back initiative, directive 2012/19/EU.

The equipment that you bought has required the extraction and use of natural resources for its production. It may
contain hazardous substances that could impact health and the environment.

In order to avoid the dissemination of those substances in our environment and to diminish the pressure on the natural
resources, we encourage you to use the appropriate take-back systems. Those systems will reuse or recycle most of the
materials of your end life equipment in a sound way.

The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol invites you to use those systems.

If you need more information on the collection, reuse and recycling systems, please contact your local or regional
waste administration.

http://www.ge-mcs.com/en/about-us/environmental-health-and-safety/weee.html for take-back instructions and

Visit
more information about this initiative.

iv DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Contents

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2 Using the Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1.3 Obtaining On-line Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.4 Using the Console Control Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.4.1 Audio Alarm Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.4.2 Stopwatch Totalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.4.3 Display Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.4.4 Display Contrast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.5 The User Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

1.6 Entering Programming Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

1.7 Entering Channel Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

1.7.1 Activating a Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

1.7.2 Entering Channel System Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

1.7.3 Entering Pipe Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

1.7.4 Setting Up Inputs/Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

1.7.5 Entering Setup Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

1.7.6 Setting Advanced Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

1.8 Entering Global System Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

1.8.1 Setting the Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

1.8.2 Entering Global System Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

1.8.3 Setting Up the Inputs and Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

1.8.4 Setting Up Serial Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

1.8.5 MODBUS Register Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

1.8.6 Activating Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

1.8.7 Saving Site Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

1.8.8 Recalling a Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

2.2 The BIG Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

2.3 The DUAL Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

2.4 The GRAPH Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

2.4.1 Setting Up the GRAPH Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

2.4.2 Using the GRAPH Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

2.5 The LOG Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

2.5.1 Entering the LOG Submenu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

2.5.2 Numeric Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

2.5.3 Graphical Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

2.6 Displaying the Transducer Signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

2.7 Setting the LCD Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

2.8 Activating Sleep Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) v

Contents

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

3.2 Creating a Standard Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

3.2.1 Log Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

3.2.2 STARTTIME Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

3.2.3 START DATE Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

3.2.4 END TIME Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

3.2.5 END DATE Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

3.2.6 DURATION Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

3.2.7 LOG TIME Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

3.2.8 TIME INCREMENT Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

3.3 Checking the Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

3.4 Stopping a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

3.5 Creating an ERROR Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

3.5.1 Log Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

3.5.2 STARTTIME Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

3.5.3 START DATE Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Chapter 4. Printing Data

4.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

4.2 Print Live Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

4.2.1 Numeric Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

4.2.2 Graphical Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

4.3 Printing Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

4.3.1 Numeric Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

4.3.2 Graphical Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

4.4 Printing a Site File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

4.5 Stopping Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

4.6 Setting Up a Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

4.6.1 Printing Signal Array Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

4.7 Printing RTD Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

5.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

5.1.1 Resetting Totals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

5.2 Deleting Site Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

5.3 Deleting Log Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

vi DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Contents

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

6.2 Wiring the RS232 Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

6.3 Checking the GS868 Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

6.4 Setting Up the Terminal Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

6.4.1 Windows 3.X Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

6.4.2 Windows 9X/NT Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

6.5 Optional RS485 Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

6.5.1 Interface Converter Mounting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

6.5.2 Point-To-Point Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

6.5.3 Multi-Point Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

6.6 Setting Up an Ethernet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

6.7 Setting Up a MODBUS/TCP Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92

Appendix A. Menu Maps

Appendix B. Data Records

B.1 Option Cards Installed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

B.2 Initial Setup Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Appendix C. Programming with PanaView

C.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

C.2 Wiring the RS232 Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

C.3 Setting Up the Communications Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

C.3.1 Setting up Ethernet Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

C.4 Adding the GS868 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

C.5 Editing Meter Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

C.5.1 Setting the Meter Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

C.5.2 Reading Transducer Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

C.5.3 Plotting Transducer Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

C.5.4 Saving Transducer Signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

C.5.5 Clearing Totalizers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

C.5.6 Handling Site Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

C.6 Changing Meter Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Appendix D. Foundation Fieldbus Communications

D.1 Optional Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

D.2 Configuration Utility Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

D.3 Selecting the Desired Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

D.4 Selecting Units for AI Blocks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

D.5 Resetting Instrument Totalizers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

D.6 Function Block Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) vii

Contents

Appendix E. Foundation Fieldbus Tables

viii DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.1 Introduction

The 2-Channel Model GS868 flowmeter cannot provide accurate flow rate measurements for either channel until the
instrument has been properly installed, the channel has been activated, and the basic system and pipe parameters have
been programmed into the meter. See the Startup Guide for detailed instructions on performing these tasks. After
completing the installation, proceed with this chapter to program the Model GS868’s advanced features.

Four submenus within the User Program provide access to the various programmable features of the Model GS868.
Step-by-step programming instructions for each submenu are presented in this chapter. Refer to the appropriate section
for a discussion of the following User Program submenus:

• CH1/CH2 - use this submenu to activate a channel and to enter the basic setup parameters for that channel.

• GLOBL - use this submenu to enter global meter parameters (i.e., clock, system, input/output, communications and

security), which apply to both channels.

• SAVE - use this submenu to store both channel and global data in the meter’s memory, as a site file.

• RECLL - use this submenu to recall and activate a stored site file.

Note: It is not required that both channels of a 2-Channel Model GS868 be installed. The second channel connector

may simply be left vacant for future expansion.

As an aid in following the programming instructions, a complete set of menu maps for the User Program is included in
Appendix A, Menu Maps. The specific figure numbers will be referenced throughout this chapter, as required.

Note: In the menu map drawings, plain text represents prompt area messages and boxed text represents option bar

choices. Fx represents a function key to select an option bar choice.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 1

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

HIJK LMN

W

PROG

Q

EXIT

SCREEN

V

DISP

CAL

OP

CLR

HELP

LOG

0

XYZ

PRNT

123

45

RST

ENT

6

U

ABCD EFG

789

1.2 Using the Keypad

The Model GS868 keypad contains 39 keys, which are labeled with their primary (unshifted) functions. In addition,
pressing the red

The complete keypad is illustrated in Figure 1 below and a detailed description of both the unshifted and shifted
functions for each of the 39 keys is listed in Table 1 on page 3.

[SHIFT] key will access the secondary functions assigned to most of the keys.

Note: Only the

[SHIFT] key and the eight [Fx] keys have no shifted function.

Figure 1: The Model GS868 Keypad

Note: Although the keypad is essentially the same, the front panel layout of meters supplied in one of the optional

enclosures is different. See Appendix C, Optional Enclosures, of the Startup Guide for a picture of the
applicable front panel.

2 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Table 1: Model GS868 Key Functions

Key Unshifted Function Shifted Function

Software Function Keys - press to

None
select the functions displayed directly
above them in the option bar. These
keys apply only to the left pane of the
display screen.

Software Function Keys - press to
select the functions displayed directly
above them in the option bar. These
keys apply only to the right pane of the
display screen.

Shift Key - use this red key to access
the shifted function of the other keys.
One press shifts the next keystroke
only, while two presses locks the
keypad in shifted mode. A third press
releases the shift function.

Arrow Keys - in measurement mode,
use to scroll through function choices
on the option bar. In programming
mode, use to scroll through menu
choices. The

] key also acts as a

backspace key in programming mode.

None

None

Use to enter the letters A, B, C and D,

respectively.

Program Key - press to enter the User

Use to enter the letter Q.
Program. See page 8 for details.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 3

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Key Unshifted Function Shifted Function

Table 1: Model GS868 Key Functions (cont.)

Display Key - use to display data in a
variety of numeric and graphic
formatting options. See Chapter 2 for
details.

Use to enter the letter O.

Log Key - use to set up logs. See
Chapter 3 for details.

Print Key - use to print live
measurements, log files and signal
arrays. See Chapter 4 for details.

Clear Key - use to reset totals and to
delete site and log files from the Model
GS868 memory. See Chapter 5 for
details.

Calibration Key - use to calibrate the
analog inputs and outputs and to test
the alarm relays and the totalizer/
frequency outputs. See Chapter 1,
Calibration, in the Service Manual for
details.

Exit Key - use to move up one level in
the user program or to exit the user
program.

Enter Key - use to confirm the most
recent input information.

Use to enter the letter X.

Use to enter the letter R.

Use to enter the letter H.

Use to enter the letter P.

Use to enter the letter J.

Use to enter the letter K.

Help Key - use to access the Model

Use to enter the letter I.
GS868’s context-sensitive on-line help
system. See the next section for details.

Screen Key - press the left side to
select the left display pane or press the
right side to select the right display

Press the left side to enter the letter V

or press the right side to enter the letter

W.
pane.

Decimal Point Key - press to enter a

Use to enter the letter Z.
decimal point during numeric entry.

Minus Key - use to enter a minus sign

Use to enter a space character.
or a dash.

Zero Key - use to enter the number 0. Use to enter the letter Y.

One Key - use to enter the number 1. Use to enter the letter S.

4 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Table 1: Model GS868 Key Functions (cont.)

Key Unshifted Function Shifted Function

Two Key - use to enter the number 2. Use to enter the letter T.

Three Key - use to enter the number 3. Use to enter the letter U.

Four Key - use to enter the number 4. Use to enter the letter L.

Five Key - use to enter the number 5. Use to enter the letter M.

Six Key - use to enter the number 6. Use to enter the letter N.

Seven Key - use to enter the number 7. Use to enter the letter E.

Eight Key - use to enter the number 8. Use to enter the letter F.

Nine Key - use to enter the number 9. Use to enter the letter G.

Audio Level Key - press to increase
the audio alarm volume.

Stopwatch Timer Key - press to turn

Press to decrease the audio alarm
volume.

Press to turn the stopwatch timer off.

the stopwatch timer on.

Backlight Key - press to turn the
display backlight on or to increase its

Press to turn the display backlight off
or to decrease its brightness.

brightness.

Contrast Key - press to increase the
contrast of the display screen.

Press to decrease the contrast of the
display screen.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 5

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

ON-LINE HELP

MORE

FLOW

EXIT

ERROR

1.3 Obtaining On-line Help

A context-sensitive, on-line help system is programmed into every Model GS868 flowmeter. On-line help, which
displays additional information related to the current task, may be accessed at any time by pressing the
the keypad. The help information will be shown on the currently selected pane of the display screen, as shown in
Figure 2 below.

[HELP] key on

Figure 2: Typical On-Line Help Screen

After entering the on-line help system, the following functions are available on the option bar of the selected display
pane:

• MORE: Press [F1] (or [F5]) to access this function, and the next screen of text is displayed in the prompt area.

• EXIT: Press [F2] (or [F6]) to access this function, and the Model GS868 returns to measurement mode.

• ERROR: Press [F3] (or [F7]) to access this function, and the various Model GS868 error codes are displayed. Use the

[F1]-[F4] (or [F5]-[F8]) function keys, in conjunction with the ] and ] keys, to obtain additional information on

the desired error code or to exit the help system.

Note: See the Service Manual for a complete listing of all error codes and messages

• FLOW: Press [F4] (or [F8]) to access this function, and the various flow measurement parameters are displayed. Use

the

[F1]-[F4] (or [F5]-[F8]) function keys, in conjunction with the ] and ] keys, to obtain additional information

on the desired measurement parameter or to exit the help system.

6 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.4 Using the Console Control Keys

The Model GS868 has four console control keys located on the left side of the keypad. Use these keys, which are
described and pictured in Table 1 on page 3, as follows:

1.4.1 Audio Alarm Volume

Use the top console control key to adjust the audio alarm volume.

Discrete presses will incrementally increase the volume of the audio alarm. Hold the key down for continuous increase.
Use the key in shifted mode to decrease the volume of the audio alarm.

1.4.2 Stopwatch Totalizer

Use the second console control key for the stopwatch totalizer.

Press the key once to start the stopwatch totalizer. Press the key once, in shifted mode, to stop the stopwatch totalizer.

Note: Instructions on properly setting up the stopwatch totalizer are given later in this chapter. Also, the Service

Manual provides information on the error response of the stopwatch totalizer.

1.4.3 Display Brightness

Use the third console control key to adjust the display backlight.

Discrete presses of this key will increase the backlight brightness through settings of Off, Mid and Full. Discrete
presses of this key in shifted mode, will decrease the backlight brightness through settings of Full, Mid and Off.

Note: The display backlight has an automatic time-off feature. See page 57 for setup instructions.

1.4.4 Display Contrast

Use the bottom console key to adjust the display contrast.

Discrete presses will incrementally increase the display contrast. Hold the key down for continuous increase. Use the
same key, in shifted mode, to decrease display contrast.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 7

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.5 The User Program

Use the keypad, as described in Chapter 3, Operation, of the Startup Guide to navigate through the User Program. The
menu map may be followed in sequence, or the

] key may be used to delete the last alphanumeric character that was entered from the keypad.

The

The following discussion assumes that the left screen pane is active. If the right screen pane is active, only the function
key designations change. That is, replace
instructions apply equally to

Channel 2.

[F1]-[F4] with [F5]-[F8]. Also, Channel 1 is used in all examples, but the

Note: Be sure to record all the programming data entered in this chapter in Appendix B, Data Records.

] and ] keys may be used to scroll through the prompt screens.

Programming of the

ACTIV, SYSTM (CH1 and GLOBL) and PIPE submenus is necessary for operation of the Model GS868.

Failure to accurately enter all of the required information will result in unreliable flow rate data. Therefore, be sure to
complete at least the sections of this chapter pertaining to those three submenus.

Note: Because it is so essential, instructions for programming the

ACTIV, SYSTM (CH1 and GLOBL) and PIPE submenus

are also included in the Startup Guide. If that programming has already been completed, skip the
corresponding sections of this chapter.

Except for the three submenus noted above, it is not necessary to program the Model GS868 flowmeter in any
particular order. Therefore, the sections of this chapter need not be completed in sequence. Proceed immediately to any
section of interest.

1.6 Entering Programming Mode

To access the User Program, press the [PROG] key on the keypad. The standard measurement mode screen will be
replaced by the following initial programming mode screen:

PROGRAM Start

Press the ] and ] keys and one of the function keys [F1]-[F4] to select
the desired submenu. From this screen, press

[EXIT] to return to

measurement mode.

PROGRAM

Channel 1

CH1 CH2 GLOBL SAVE

Note:

If the security feature is active, enter the password and press the

[ENT] key to enter the User Program. See the SECUR

submenu section on page 41 of this chapter for more information on the security feature.

8 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7 Entering Channel Data

If [F1]=CH1 (or [F2]=CH2) was selected at the initial User Program prompt shown on page 1-8, the following screen
appears:

Chan 1 PROGR Start

Press the ] and ] keys and a function key [F1]-[F4] to select the
desired submenu. From this screen, press

[EXIT] to return to the initial

User Program screen shown on page 8.

Channel PROGRAM

status

ACTIV SYSTM PIPE I/O

Based on the selection made above, proceed to the appropriate section of this chapter for instructions.

1.7.1 Activating a Channel

The ACTIV submenu activates a channel and selects the desired measurement method. While following the
programming instructions, refer to the menu map in Figure 11 on page 95.

1. Enter the

2. Press

channel in

3. Press
return to the channel menu screen.

ACTIV submenu by pressing [F1] at the Channel PROGRAM prompt.

[F1] (OFF) to deactivate the channel and return to the Channel PROGRAM prompt, or press [F2] to activate the

BURST mode.

[F1] to select Skan mode or [F2] to select Skan/Measure mode. The meter will exit the ACTIV submenu and

:As indicated in the above prompt, the Model GS868 flowmeter can take measurements in two different ways:

• Skan is a low resolution technique for locating the acoustic signal and for high velocity measurements. It is more

robust in a noisy environment than the Measure technique.

• Measure is a more precise technique best used for low velocity measurements.

If Skan is selected at the next prompt, the instrument uses this technique exclusively. However, if S/M is selected, the
meter uses Skan to find the acoustic signal and then tries to use the Measure technique for a more precise measurement.

Note: To change the

Skan and Measure parameters, see the SIGNL submenu section on page 19.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 9

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

Channel PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

Save prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

Note: See the

SAVE submenu section on page 43 of this chapter for more information on this function.

10 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.2 Entering Channel System Data

While following the programming instructions, refer to the menu map in Figure 11 on page 95.

IMPORTANT: Do not confuse this SYSTM submenu, which is used to enter channel-specific information, with the SYSTM

submenu of the

GLOBL menu, which is used to enter information applicable to both channels.

1. To enter the

2. Enter a Channel Label of up to 9 characters. Press

3. Enter a Channel Message of up to 21 characters. Press

4. At the Equation prompt, press

SYSTM submenu, press [F2] at the Channel PROGRAM prompt.

[ENT].

[ENT].

[F1] to display the measurement data in standard volumetric units, or press [F2] to

display the measurement data in actual volumetric units. The GS868 uses the appropriate gas equation to calculate
the flow rate in the volumetric units indicated.

5. Use the

[F1]-[F4] and ] keys to select the desired Volumetric Units for the flow rate display.

The abbreviations and definitions of all the available volumetric and totalizer units are shown in Table 2 on page 11.
The choices shown on the option bar are determined by the selection made at the previous

SYSTEM UNITS screen.

Table 2: Available Volumetric/Totalizer Units

English Metric

Actual Units

ACF = Actual Cubic Feet ACM = Actual Cubic Meters

KACF = Thousands of ACF KACM = Thousands of ACM

MMACF = Millions of ACF MMACM = Millions of ACM

Standard Units

SCF = Standard Cubic Feet SCM = Standard Cubic Meters

KSCF = Thousands of SCF KSCM = Thousands of SCM

MMSCF = Millions of SCF MMSCM = Millions of SCM

6. Use the

7. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Volumetric Time (units for the volumetric flow rate display).

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Vol Decimal Digits (the desired number of digits to the right of the decimal point)

in the volumetric flow rate display.

8. Use the

[F1]-[F4] and ] keys to select the Totalizer Units.

The abbreviations and definitions of all the available volumetric and totalizer units are shown in Table 2 above. The
choices shown on the option bar in the prompt screen above are determined by the selection made at the previous

SYSTEM UNITS prompt screen.

9. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Total Decimal Digits (the desired number of digits to the right of the decimal

point) in the totalized flow display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 11

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.2 Entering Channel System Data (cont.)

10.If Static Density? is set to NO in the ADVAN submenu, go to Procedure Options on the next page. Otherwise, proceed

as follows:

a. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass Flow units, listed in Table 3 below.

Table 3: Available Mass Flow Units

English Mass Flow Units Metric Mass Flow Units

LB- Pounds KG - Kilograms

KLB - Thousands of Pounds

MMLB - Millions of Pounds

TO NS - Ton s Tonnes - Metric Ton s

b. Use the

c. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass Flow Time units.

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the MDOT Decimal Digits (the number of digits to the right of the decimal

point) for displaying mass flow.

d. Use the

e. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass (Totalizer) units, listed in Table 3 on the previous page.

[F1]-[F4] to specify the Mass Decimal Digits (the number of digits to the right of the decimal point) for

displaying totalized mass flow.

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

Channel PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

Note: See the

SAVE submenu section on page 43 of this chapter for more information on this function.

12 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.3 Entering Pipe Data

Enter the transducer and pipe parameters via the PIPE submenu. While following the programming instructions, refer to
the menu map in Figure 11 on page 95 in Appendix A, Menu Maps.

1. At the Channel Program screen, press

[F3] to program the PIPE submenu.

1.7.3a Transducer Number

2. Enter the Transducer Number (normally engraved on the head of the transducer). Press [ENT]. If there is no engraved
number, complete the steps below. Otherwise, proceed to step 3.

IMPORTANT: Special transducers, which have no engraved number on the head, are rarely used. Examine the

transducer head carefully for a number.

a. Assign a number between 91 and 99 to the Special Transducer and press

[ENT]. (The meter will only accept

values from 1 to 199.)

b. Use the

] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the Frequency of the special transducer. The meter can not transmit an

excitation voltage at the transducer’s natural frequency without this data.

c. Enter the special transducer Time Delay (Tw) value supplied by the factory. Press

[ENT]. (The meter will only

accept values from 0 to 1000 sec.)

Note: Tw is the time required for the transducer signal to travel through the transducer and its cable. This time delay

must be subtracted from the transit times of the upstream and downstream transducers to ensure an accurate
measurement.

1.7.3b Pipe OD

3. Enter the known Pipe OD or circumference and use the [F1]-[F4] keys to select the appropriate units. Press [ENT].
(The meter will only accept values from 1/8 to 648 in.) The option bar choices may appear in English or Metric
units.

Obtain the required information by measuring either the pipe outside diameter (OD) or circumference at the transducer
installation site. The data may also be obtained from standard pipe size tables. Table 4 below lists the available English
and metric OD units, as specified in the

GLOBL submenu.

Table 4: Available Pipe OD Units

English Metric

inch = pipe OD in inches mm = pipe OD in millimeters

feet = pipe OD in feet m = pipe OD in meters

in/PI = pipe circumference
in inches

ft/PI = pipe circumference
in feet

mm/PI = pipe circumference

in millimeters

m/PI = pipe circumference
in meters

1.7.3c Pipe Wall

4. Use the numeric keys to enter the known thickness of the Pipe Wall. Press [ENT].

If the pipe wall thickness is not available, look up the value in a table of standard pipe size data or use the Model
GS868’s on-line Help Menu

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 13

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.3d Path Length

5. Press [F1] = inch or [F2] = feet to select the units. Then, enter the Path Length (P) of the ultrasonic signal. Press [ENT].

(The meter will only accept values from 1/8 to 900 in.)

Note: The factory has calculated both the transducer signal path length

based on the exact transducer configuration used for the application. These values are engraved on the
flowcell and/or are included in the documentation supplied with the meter.

(P) and the transducer signal axial length (L),

1.7.3e Axial Length

6. Press [F1] = inch or [F2] = feet to select the units.Then, enter the Axial Length (L) of the ultrasonic signal and press

[ENT].

Note: The factory has calculated both the transducer signal path length

based on the exact transducer configuration used for the application. These values are engraved on the
flowcell and/or are included in the documentation supplied with the meter.

(P) and the transducer signal axial length (L),

1.7.3f Fluid Type

7. Press [F1] = steam or [F2] = any other gas to select the Fluid Type.

OTHER was selected, enter the speed of sound (in feet per second) in the gas to be measured. Press [ENT]. (The

a. If

meter will only accept values from 125 to 9000 ft/sec.)

1.7.3g Reynolds Correction

8. The Reynolds Correction factor is a number based on the kinematic viscosity and flow rate of the gas. At the
prompt, press

[F1] to turn Reynolds Correction off, or [F2] to turn it on.

• If you select Reynolds Correction, the GS868 asks for the Kinematic Viscosity of the gas (available in the

brochure Sound Speeds and Pipe Size Data, 914-004). Use the numeric keys to enter the correct value and press

[ENT].

1.7.3h Calibration Factor

9. Enter a value for the flow Calibration Factor and press [ENT]. The default value is 1.00. (The meter will only accept
values from 0.5000 to 2.0000.)

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

Channel PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A of the Programming Manual and

navigate to the desired menu. Then, proceed to the appropriate section of the manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

14 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.4 Setting Up Inputs/Outputs

The following specific tasks may be performed via the I/O submenu:

• Enter a zero cutoff value to eliminate low flow reading fluctuations

• Set up fixed or live temperature and pressure inputs

• Set up fixed or live steam quality input for mass flow calculations

While following the programming instructions, refer to the menu map in Figure 12 on page 96 in Appendix A, Menu
Maps. Remember to record all programmed data in Appendix B, Data Records.

1. To enter the

I/O submenu, press [F4] at the Channel PROGRAM prompt.

1.7.4a Entering the Zero Cutoff

Near zero flow, the Model GS868’s readings may fluctuate due to small offsets caused by thermal drift or similar
factors. To force a zero reading when there is minimal flow, enter a zero cutoff value as described below:

2. Enter the desired Zero Cutoff value and press the

values from 0–1 ft/s (0–0.3 m/s) are acceptable. The menu returns to the main I/O prompt.

[ENT] key. A value of 0.1 ft/s (0.03 m/s) is recommended, but

1.7.4b Entering the Steam Input

3. At the Assume Saturation prompt, press [F1] = NO to use temperature and pressure to determine the state of the

steam, or press

4. At the Steam Input Type prompt, press

[F2] for the GS868 to assume the steam is saturated.

[F1] to select a temperature input, or [F2] to select a pressure input.

• If you select TEMP, go to step 5.

• If you select PRESR, go to step 7 on the next page.

1.7.4c Entering the Temperature Input

5. At the Temperature Input prompt, press [F1] to enter a constant temperature value or press [Fx] to select the option

card in Slot x that will supply the live temperature input.

Note: Each slot that contains an option card with an analog input assigned to

the option bar. If the process temperature is stable, a fixed value may be used, but most applications require a
live temperature input.

6. Do one of the following:

TEMP or an RTD input will appear on

• If you selected FIXED, enter the known fixed process temperature. Press [ENT]. (The meter will only accept values

from –148° to 662°F.)

• If you selected SLOT X,

a. Press

Note: The set up of input A is used as an example. Identical procedures would be used to set up input B.

b. Enter the Base Temperature (from –148° to 662 °F), and press

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 15

[F1] to select input A or press [F2] to select input B.The inputs were labeled during setup.

[ENT]. The ratio of this value to the actual

temperature is used to calculate the standard volumetric flow.

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.4d Entering the Pressure Input

7. At the Pressure Input prompt, press [F1] to enter a constant pressure value or press [Fx] to select the option card in
Slot X that will supply the live pressure input.

Note: Each slot that contains an option card with an analog input assigned to

the process pressure is stable, a fixed value may be used, but most applications require a live pressure input.

8. Do one of the following:

PRESR will appear on the option bar. If

• If you selected FIXED, enter the known fixed process pressure. Press [ENT]. (The meter will only accept values

from 0–5000 psia.)

• If you selected SLOT X,

a. Press

b. Enter the Base Pressure (standard) value for the process, and press the

c. Press

[F1] to select input A or press [F2] to select input B.The inputs were labeled during setup.

[ENT] key. (The meter will only accept

values from 0–5000 psia.)

[F2] = YES to activate the Low Pressure Switch, or press [F1] = NO to turn the switch off.

• If you selected NO, proceed to step 9.

• If you selected YES, enter the Pressure Limit (the setpoint for the low pressure switch) and press [ENT]. The

acceptable range is 0 to 5,000 psia. If the pressure drops below the pressure limit, the GS868 will stop taking
readings.

1.7.4e Entering the Quality Input Value

9. At the Quality Input prompt, press [F1] to enter a constant steam quality value or press [Fx] to select the option card
in Slot X that will supply the live steam quality input. This value is used for mass flow calculations when the
temperature and pressure inputs indicate that the steam is saturated. Unless a different value is accurately known,
accept the default value.

Note: Each slot that contains an option card with an analog input that has been programmed as

submenu appears on the option bar. Normally, a fixed value of 1.0 (100% steam) should be used for the steam
quality value.

10.Do one of the following:

SPEC in the OPTN

• If you selected FIXED, enter the known fixed steam quality. Press [ENT]. (The meter will only accept values from

0.0000 to 1.0000.)

• If you selected SLOT X,

a. Press

[F1] to select input A or press [F2] to select input B.The inputs were labeled during setup.

16 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the main I/O prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A of the Programming Manual and

navigate to the desired menu. Then, proceed to the appropriate section of the manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 17

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.5 Entering Setup Data

The signal limits and response times for the Model GS868 are specified via the SETUP submenu. While following the
programming instructions, refer to the menu map in Figure 12 on page 96 in Appendix A, Menu Maps. The following
three submenus are included in this section:

• SIGNL - set the parameters related to the transducer signal

• AVRG - specify the response of the meter to step changes

• INIT - initialize all parameters to default values.

• ADVAN - setting parameters for mass flow and multiple K-factors.

Enter the

Chan 1 SETUP

Channel PROGRAM

SET UP

SET UP

last selection appears here

SIGNL AVRG INIT ADVAN

Proceed to the appropriate section to program the option selection made at the above prompt. Remember to record all
programmed data in Appendix B, Data Records.

SETUP submenu by pressing ] and [F1] at the Channel PROGRAM prompt and complete the following steps:

Press [F1]-[F3] to select the desired SETUP option.

18 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.5a Setting Transducer Signal Limits

Use this option to set the limits for the incoming signal and other parameters affecting the transducer signal. For
example, the programmed signal strength low limit may be used to determine the trigger point for an alarm. Table 5 on
page 22 provides a summary of signal upper and lower limits and default values.

CAUTION!

The SIGNL default settings are suitable for most applications. Before changing any of

these parameters, consult the factory.

Complete the following steps to enter the signal parameters:

1. Press

The default value for this parameter is 20 and values from –20 to 100 are acceptable. The
appears when the signal strength falls below the programmed

[ENT] to accept the current Signal Low Limit value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

E1: LOW SIGNAL error message

SIGNAL LOW LIMIT value. See the Service Manual for a

discussion of error codes.

2. Press

The default value for this parameter is 100 and values from 0 to 500 are acceptable. The
message appears when the signal quality falls below the programmed

[ENT] to accept the current Cor. Peak Limit value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

E4: SIGNAL QUALITY error

COR. PEAK LIMIT value. See the Service Manual

for a discussion of error codes.

3. Press

The default value for this parameter is 20% and values from 1% to 50% are acceptable. The

[ENT] to accept the current Soundspeed +– Limit value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

E2: SOUNDSPEED error

message appears when the calculated fluid soundspeed differs from the fluid soundspeed entered in the
by more than the programmed

SOUNDSPEED +– LIMIT value. See the Service Manual for a discussion of error codes.

SYSTEM menu

4. Press

[ENT] to accept the current Velocity Low Limit value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

The default value for this parameter is –275.0 ft/sec (-85 m/sec) and values from –500 to 500 ft/sec (–150 to 150 m/sec)
are acceptable. The
programmed

5. Press

VELOCITY LOW LIMIT value. See the Service Manual for a discussion of error codes.

[ENT] to accept the current Velocity High Limit value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

E3: VELOCITY RANGE error message appears when the calculated fluid velocity is less than the

The default value for this parameter is 275.0 ft/sec (85 m/sec) and values from –500 to 500 ft/sec (–150 to 150 m/sec)
are acceptable. The
programmed

6. Press

VELOCITY HIGH LIMIT value. See the Service Manual for a discussion of error codes.

[ENT] to accept the current Acceleration value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

The default value for this parameter is 100.0 ft/sec
acceptable. The
programmed

ACCELERATION LIMIT value from one reading to the next. See the Service Manual for a discussion of error

E3: VELOCITY RANGE error message appears when the calculated fluid velocity exceeds the

2

(30.48 m/sec2) and values from 0 to 250 ft/sec2 (0 to 76 m/sec2) are

E6: CYCLE SKIP error message appears when the calculated fluid velocity changes by more than the

codes.

7. Press

[ENT] to accept the current Amp. Discrim Low value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 19

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.5a Setting Transducer Signal Limits (cont.)

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

The amplitude discriminator measures the size of the transducer signal received by the Model GS868. The default
value for this parameter is 14 and values from 0 to 100 are acceptable. The
the amplitude discriminator falls below the programmed

AMP. DISCRIM LOW value. See the Service Manual for a

discussion of error codes.

E5: AMPLITUDE error message appears when

8. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[ENT] to accept the current Amp. Discrim High value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

The amplitude discriminator measures the size of the transducer signal received by the Model GS868. The default
value for this parameter is 34 and values from 0 to 100 are acceptable. The
the amplitude discriminator exceeds the programmed

AMP. DISCRIM HIGH value. See the Service Manual for a discussion

E5: AMPLITUDE error message appears when

of error codes.

9. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[ENT] to accept the current Delta T Offset value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

An offset between the upstream and downstream transit times is specified at this prompt. The default value for this
parameter is 0 sec and values from –1000 to 1000 sec are acceptable.

10. Press

[ENT] to accept the current Skan T Offset value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

At this prompt, specify a time measurement offset that compensates for any shift resulting from cross-correlation. The
default value for this parameter is 58 sec and values from –500 to 500 sec are acceptable.

Note: If you enter a value of 0 for this command, you enable a special mode of operation, ACTIVE SKAN T-OFFSET,

that dynamically calculates the offset.

11. Press

[ENT] to accept the current % of Peak value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

The percentage of peak used to calculate the transit times and Delta T is specified at this prompt. The default value for
this parameter is 50% and values from 1 to 100% are acceptable.

12. Use the [ and

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[F1]-[F4] keys to select one of the preset values for the XMIT Sample Size from the option bar.

Both the upstream and downstream transducers transmit ultrasonic pulses in bursts, which consist of a series of
transmit pulses.

XMIT SAMPLE SIZE determines how many bursts are sent in one direction before sending in the other

direction. The default value for this parameter is 8 and values of 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 are acceptable.

13. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[ENT] to accept the current M>S_Switch value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

If the burst mode is set to Skan/Measure (S/M), the meter switches from Skan to Measure Mode when Delta T is less
than the

M>S_Switch value. DO NOT change this value unless advised to do so by the factory. The default value for this

parameter is 50 sec and values from 0 to 250 sec are acceptable.

20 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.5a Setting Transducer Signal Limits (cont.)

14. Press [ENT] to accept the current # shifts value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

The number of shifts corresponds to the actual number of transmits per cycle (number of signals added together in one
direction to produce an averaged signal for one interrogation of the fluid) and need only be changed if the environment
is very noisy or the acoustic signal is weak. The default value for this parameter is 3 and values from 0 to 10 are
acceptable.

15. Press

A Divisor is used in the calculation of the Measure Mode integrated threshold level and is not normally changed. The

[ENT] to accept the current A Divisor value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

default value for this parameter is 2.5 and values from 0.1 to 10 are acceptable.

16. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

# Transmit Pulses specifies the number of pulses in a burst. The default value for this parameter is 4 and values from 1

[ENT] to accept the current # Transmit Pulses value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

to 16 are acceptable. For difficult conditions (i.e., long paths, high velocity or high temperature), settings as high as 16
may be necessary.

17. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[ENT] to accept the current T WINDOW (Cycles) value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

Normally, the Model GS868 calculates the size of the transmit window based on pipe size and fluid sound speed.
However, for special diagnostic purposes, it may sometimes be necessary to reset the window size. The default value
for this parameter is 0 and values from 0 to 1000 are acceptable.

18. Press

IMPORTANT: Consult the factory before performing this step.

[ENT] to accept the current R WINDOW (cycles) value or enter a new value and press [ENT].

Normally, the Model GS868 calculates the size of the receive window based on pipe size and fluid sound speed.
However, for special diagnostic purposes, it may sometimes be necessary to reset the window size. The default value
for this parameter is 10 and values from 10 to 128 are acceptable.

After completing these steps, the program returns to the

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 21

SETUP window.

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.5 Setting Signal Limits (cont.)

Table 5: Default Values and Limits for SETUP Parameters

Parameter Default Value Low Limit High Limit

Signal Low Limit 20 -20 100

Cor. Peak Limit 100 0 500

Soundspeed -+ Limit 20% 1% 50%

Velocity Low Limit -275.0 ft/sec

Velocity High Limit 275.0 ft/sec

Acceleration Limit

Amp. Discrim Low 14 0 100

Amp. Discrim High 34 0 100

Delta T Offset 0 -1,000 µsec 1,000 µsec

Skan T Offset 58 µsec -500 µsec 500 µsec

% of Peak 50% 1% 100%

(-85 m/sec)

(85 m/sec)

100 ft/sec

2

(30.48 m/sec2)

-500 ft/sec

(-150 m/sec)

-500 ft/sec

(-150 m/sec)

0

+500 ft/sec

(+150 m/sec)

+500 ft/sec

(+150 m/sec)

250 ft/sec

2

(76 m/sec2)

XMIT Sample Size 8 2 32

M>S Switch 50 µsec 0 µsec 250 µsec

# shifts 3 0 10

A Divisor 23 0.1 10

# Transmit Pulses 4 1 16

T Window 0 0 1,000

R Window 10 10 128

1.7.5b Setting Response Time

Use this option to specify the number of readings that occur before the meter will respond to a step change in flow rate.
In general, the smaller the number of readings, the less steady the display will appear.

• Use the ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired option. The available response time options are 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60

and STATS

while still allowing a rapid response to changes in flow rate.

The GS868 program returns to the
Records.

1.7.5c Initializing the System

. For best results, select STATS (statistics), as this increases the response time under steady flow conditions

SETUP window. Remember to record all programmed data in Appendix B, Data

Use this option to initialize (reset) all of the parameters within the SETUP menu to their default values.

• Press [F1] = NO to keep the current values or press [F2] = YES to reset all values to their default settings.

22 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.6 Setting Advanced Parameters

In the ADVAN option, you can enter parameters for two specialized operations: static density and multiple K factors.
While following the programming instructions, refer to Figure 12 on page 96.To enter the

SETUP window.

the

ADVAN submenu, press [F4] at

1.7.6a Static Density

Use this option to specify basic parameters for mass flow measurement.

1. To enter the

2. At the

MASS submenu, press [F1] at the ADVAN window.

Static Density? prompt, press [F1] = NO or [F2] = YES. If you press NO, the GS868 returns to the ADVAN

window.

3. Enter the Fluid Density of the gas to be measured and press

0.00001-100 lb/ft

The GS868 program returns to the

3

.)

ADVAN window.

[ENT]. (The meter will only accept values from

1.7.6b Entering Multiple K Factors

In the MULTK option, you can enter velocity or Reynolds Correction values into a K-Factor table. You can thus “curve
fit” velocity or Reynolds calibration multiple data points (from several different data sources or flow variables) to the
flow rate reported by the GS868.

1. Press

2. Press

[F2] to enter the Multiple K Factors option.

[F1] = NO to disable or [F2] = YES to enable Multiple K-factors.

• If you press NO, the GS868 returns to the ADVAN window.

3. If you press

YES, the program asks for the Custom type of data. Press [F1] to select velocity data, or [F2] to select

Reynolds data.

a. If you select a Reynolds table, the meter asks for the Kinematic Viscosity. Enter the appropriate value, and press

[ENT].

4. Press

[F1] = NO to retain the current K-factor table and return to the ADVAN window, or press [F2] = YES to Edit The K-

factor Table.

Note: If velocity vs. K-factor data was not provided with the Model GS868, the K-factor table can not be edited.

a. Enter the Number of K-factors to be entered into the table. Press

[ENT]. (The meter will only accept values from 2

to 20.)

IMPORTANT: When editing the K-factor table, the velocities must be entered in increasing order.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 23

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.7.6b Entering Multiple K Factors (cont.)

b. Enter the Velocity (or Reynolds) Value for K-factor number “x”. Press [ENT]. (The meter will only accept values

from –30,000 to +30,000 ft/sec.)

c. Enter the K-factor corresponding to velocity or Reynolds number “x”. Press

d. Repeat steps b and c until all of the data points have been entered.

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

SETUP prompt. Continue as follows:

[ENT].

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

24 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8 Entering Global System Data

The GLOBL menu is used to enter information that is not specific to one of the individual channels. Information
programmed via this menu is used to compute parameters such as the sum, difference or average of the channel 1 and
channel 2 signals. In addition, several general system parameters may be entered in the

IMPORTANT: When calculating the SUM, DIF or AVE readouts, data from the GLOBL-SYSTM submenu is used. Any

conflicting data entered in the

CH1-SYSTM or CH2-SYSTM submenus is overridden.

GLOBL menu.

The following submenus are included in the

GLOBL menu:

• CLOCK - used to enter the current date and time

• SYSTM - used to specify the units of measure used in calculations

• I/O - used to set up error handling and to configure analog inputs and outputs

• COMM - used to set up the serial communications port

• SECUR - used to specify a programming access password.

After selecting

PROGRAM Start

Global PROGRAM

previous selection appears here

CLOCK SYSTM I/O COMM

[F3]=GLOBL at the initial programming screen, the following screen appears:

Press the ] and ] keys and a function key [F1]-[F4] to select
the desired submenu. From this screen, press
initial User Program screen shown on page 8.

[EXIT] to return to the

Based on the selection made above, proceed to the appropriate section of this chapter for instructions. Refer to
Figure 13 on page 97 and Figure 14 on page 98, and remember to record all programming data in Appendix B, Data

Records.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 25

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.1 Setting the Clock

Use the CLOCK submenu to enter the current date and time. While following the programming instructions, refer to the
menu map in Figure 13 on page 97.

1. To enter the

CLOCK submenu, press [F1] at the Global PROGRAM prompt.

1.8.1a Setting the Date

2. The first prompt displays the programmed Date.

• If the displayed date is correct, press [F1] = OK and proceed to step 2.

• If the displayed date is incorrect, press [F2] = EDIT to change the date, and complete the steps below.

a. Enter the current year and press

b. Use the

c. Enter the current day and press

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the current month.

1.8.1b Setting the Time

3. The next prompt displays the programmed Time.

[ENT]. The allowable range is 0 to 99.

[ENT]. The allowable range is 1 to the number of days in the current month.

• If the displayed time is correct, press [F1] = OK to return to the GLOBL prompt.

• If the displayed time is incorrect, press [F2] = EDIT to change the time, and complete the steps below.

a. Press

Note: A time of 12 PM represents Noon and a time of 12 AM represents Midnight.

[F1] = AM or [F2] = PM. Then enter the current Hour and press [ENT]. The allowable range is 1 to 12.

b. Enter the current Minutes and press

4. Enter the current Seconds and press

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

[ENT]. The allowable range is 0 to 59.

[ENT]. The allowable range is 0 to 59.

Global PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

26 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.2 Entering Global System Data

While following the programming instructions, refer to the menu map in Figure 13 on page 97.

1. To enter the

2. To select the System Units, press

SYSTEM submenu, press [F2] at the Global PROGRAM prompt.

[F1] to display parameters and measurements in English units, or press [F2] to

display parameters and measurements in Metric units.

3. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the type of Pressure Units desired.

The abbreviations and definitions of all the available pressure units are shown in Table 6 below. The choices shown on
the option bar are determined by the selections made at the previous

SYSTEM UNITS prompt.

Table 6: Available Pressure Units

English Metric

PSIa = Pounds per square inch absolute BARa = bar absolute

PSIg = Pounds per square inch gage BARg = bar gage

kPaa = kiloPascals absolute

kPag - kiloPascals gage

a. If you have entered gage pressure, or the local atmospheric pressure (PSIg, BARg or kPag), use the numeric

keys to enter the Atmospheric Pressure value. Press

4. At the Stopwatch Totalizer prompt, press

manually with the Stopwatch Timer. (With

[F1] to totalize all liquid flow continuously, or [F2] to measure totals

MNUAL ([F2]), the console key on the keypad is used to start and stop the

[ENT].

totalizer.)

IMPORTANT: After setting up the Stopwatch Totalizer, press [CLR] to clear the Stopwatch Totalizer, or the new totals will

be added to any previously accumulated totals.

Note: The manner in which the Stopwatch Totalizer responds to an error condition may be set in the

I/O submenu.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 27

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.2a Entering Volumetric Data

5. Use the [F1]-[F4] and ] keys to select the desired Volumetric Units for the flow rate display.

The abbreviations and definitions of all the available volumetric and totalizer units are shown in Table 7 below. The
choices shown on the option bar are determined by the selection made at the previous

Table 7: Available Volumetric/Totalizer Units

English Metric

Actual Units

ACF = Actual Cubic Feet ACM = Actual Cubic Meters

KACF = Thousands of ACF KACM = Thousands of ACM

MMACF = Millions of ACF MMACM = Millions of ACM

Standard Units

SCF = Standard Cubic Feet SCM = Standard Cubic Meters

KSCF = Thousands of SCF KSCM = Thousands of SCM

MMSCF = Millions of SCF MMSCM = Millions of SCM

SYSTEM UNITS screen.

6. Use the

7. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Volumetric Time (units for the volumetric flow rate display).

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Vol Decimal Digits (the desired number of digits to the right of the decimal point)

in the volumetric flow rate display.

1.8.2b Entering Totalizer Data

8. Use the [F1]-[F4] and ] keys to select the Totalizer Units.

The abbreviations and definitions of all the available volumetric and totalizer units are shown in Table 7 above. The
choices shown on the option bar are determined by the selection made at the previous

9. Use the

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Total Decimal Digits (the desired number of digits to the right of the decimal

point) in the totalized flow display.

SYSTEM UNITS prompt screen.

28 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.2c Entering Mass Flow Data

• If the Static Density? prompt in the ADVAN option (MASS submenu) is set to NO, the meter returns to the GLOBL

prompt.

• If Static Density? is set to YES, complete the following steps.

10. Use the

11. Use the

12.Use the [F1]-[F4] keys to select the MDOT Decimal Digits (the number of digits to the right of the decimal point) for

displaying mass flow.

13.Use the

14.Use the

displaying totalized mass flow.

Procedure Options

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass Flow units, listed in Table 8 below.

Table 8: Available Mass Flow Units

English Mass Flow Units Metric Mass Flow Units

LB- Pounds KG - Kilograms

KLB - Thousands of Pounds

MMLB - Millions of Pounds

TO NS - Ton s Tonnes - Metric Ton s

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass Flow Time units.

[F1]-[F4] keys to select the Mass (Totalizer) units, listed in Table 8 above.

[F1]-[F4] to specify the Mass Decimal Digits (the number of digits to the right of the decimal point) for

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

Global PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 29

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.3 Setting Up the Inputs and Outputs

While following the programming instructions for the I/O submenu, refer to Figure 14 on page 98.

1. To enter the I/O submenu, press

[F3] at the Global PROGRAM prompt.

2. Do one of the following:

• Press [F1] to set up error handling, or

• Press [F2] to set up any inputs or outputs.

Proceed to the appropriate section for step-by-step instructions on each of the two options offered above.
Note: Be sure to record all programmed data in Appendix B, Data Records.

1.8.3a Selecting Error Handling

This menu option permits programming of the manner in which the Model GS868’s outputs respond during an error
condition. See Chapter 2, Error Codes and Screen Messages, of the Service Manual for a discussion of the built-in
error codes.

1. At the I/O prompt, press

[F1] (Error).

• Press [F1]-[F4] to select the desired error response option, as described in Table 9 below. Use the [F1]-[F4] keys to

select the desired error response for the

Table 9: Standard Error Response Options

Option Display Response Totalizer Response

HOLD Holds the last “good” reading Holds the last “good” reading and continues to

LOW Forces the output to the low set point Stops totalizing.

HIGH Forces the output to the high set point Stops totalizing.

HHIGH Forces the output ª10% above the high set point Stops totalizing.

OTHER Allows user to enter 4-20 mA error level in mA. Sends analog outputs to entered mA level when

For the

AVE mode, the 2-path error handling option is intended for applications where two sets of transducers are

installed in the same location in the same pipe to improve accuracy. With this function enabled, the Model GS868
performs error handling only if both

channels are in error. If this function is disabled, error handling occurs when either

channel goes into error.

CH1/CH2, SUM or DIF modes, as described in Table 9 below.

totalize, based on that reading

a fault occurs.

• Press [F1] = NO to disable 2-path error handling, or

• Press [F2] = YES to enable 2-path error handling.

Specific responses of the display and the totalizer to the 2-path error handling option are listed in Table 10 below.

Table 10: 2-Path Error Response Options

Option Display Response Totalizer Response

NO Displays the average of CH1 and CH2, regardless of the error

state of either channel.

YES 1. If one channel is in error, the other channel’s value is dis-

played as average.

2. If both channels are in error, the last average reading is held.

The User Program automatically returns to the

30 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Global I/O prompt.

Outputs the average of CH1 and CH2 totals,
regardless of the error state of either channel.

1. If one channel is in error, totalizing continues.

2. If both channels are in error, totalizing stops.

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.3b Setting Up Input, Output and Option Cards

The Model GS868 has two built-in analog outputs, which are assigned to Slot 0. Also, a variety of option cards may be
installed in the six expansion slots. See Chapter 1, Installation, of the Startup Guide for a complete description of the
available option cards.

Note: For this discussion,

number of a slot with an installed option card does not appear, the card may not have been initialized or it may
be defective. Call the factory for assistance.

Slot x will be used to reference any of the specific expansion slots (Slot 1 - Slot 6). If the

• Use the ] and ] and the [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired slot number. (Only those slots which contain an

option card will appear on the option bar.)

Refer to the menu map in Figure 14 on page 98, and complete the steps on the pages referenced below to setup and/or
scale the Model GS868’s analog inputs and outputs.

• Analog Outputs — page 31

• Alarms — page 32

• Totalizer/Frequency Outputs —page 33

• Analog Inputs — page 34

• RTD Inputs — page 35

Setting Up Analog Outputs

1. At the Slot X Outputs prompt, press

Note: The set up of output A is used as an example. Identical procedures would be used to set up output B.

[F1] to set up output A or [F2] to set up output B.

2. Press

3. Use the

4. Use the

5. Enter the Zero value for the low end of the chosen output range. Press

6. Enter the Full value for the high end of the chosen output range. Press

7. Press

[F1] = OFF to disable output A and return to the previous prompt, or press [F2] = 0-20 m or [F3] = 4-20 m to

specify the desired range for output A.

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a Channel option for the data source.

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to specify the desired Output Measurement parameter.

[F1]-[F2] to set up another output or press [EXIT] to select another slot for set up.

[ENT].

[ENT].

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 31

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Setting up Alarms

1. Use the

[F1]-[F3] keys to set up alarm relays A, B, or C, respectively.

Note: The set up of alarm A is used as an example. Identical procedures would be used to set up the other alarms.

2. Press

[F1] = OFF to disable Alarm A and return to the previous prompt, or press [F2] = HIGH, [F3] = LOW or [F4] = FAULT

to specify the type for Alarm A.

3. Press

4. Use the

[F1] = NO for standard operation or [F2] = YES for Failsafe operation.

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a Channel option for the data source.

5. Do one of the following:

• If you selected FAULT, proceed to step 6.

• If you selected HIGH or LOW, complete the steps below.

a. Use the

b. Enter a value for the trigger point of the alarm and press

6. To select the Fault Type that will trigger the alarm, press

7. Press

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to specify the desired Output Measurement parameter.

[ENT].

[F1] = FLOW, [F2] = OTHER (non-flow), or [F3]= ALL.

[F1]-[F3] to set up another alarm or press [EXIT] to select another slot for set up.

32 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Setting up Totalizer/Frequency Outputs

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1. Press

2. Press

[F1]-[F4] to set up outputs A, B, C or D, respectively.

[F1] = OFF to disable output A and return to the previous prompt, or press [F2] = FREQ or [F3] = TTLZR to

designate output A as a frequency or a totalizer output, respectively.

Note: The setup of output A is used as an example. Identical procedures would be used to set up the other outputs.

3. Use the

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a Channel option for the data source.

• To program a frequency output, go to step 4 on the next page.

• To program a totalizer output, go to step 5 on the next page.

4. The

5. The

FREQ output, [F2], produces a frequency pulse that is proportional to the output measurement. Complete the

steps below to program the frequency output.

a. Use the

b. Enter the Base value for the low end of the frequency output range and press

c. Enter the Full value for the high end of the frequency output range. Press

d. Enter a value between 1 and 10,000 for the Full Scale Frequency. Press

TTLZR output, [F3], issues one pulse per selected volume of flow. The meter produces a pulse each time the

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to specify the desired Output Measurement parameter.

[ENT].

[ENT].

[ENT].Then skip to step 6 below.

programmed amount of flow passes through the pipe. Complete the steps below to program the totalizer output.

a. Press

[F1] = +TOTL to totalize the forward flow, or [F2] = -TOTL to totalize the reverse flow.

b. Enter a value from 50 to 500,000 sec for the Minimum Pulse

Note: A complete pulse consists of equal amounts of

ON and OFF times. Choose a value that is compatible with the

frequency counter to be used.

c. Enter a value for the number of measurement Units/Pulse and press

6. Press

[F1]-[F4] to set up another totalizer/frequency output or press [EXIT] to select another slot for setup.

ON Time and press [ENT].

[ENT].

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 33

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Setting up the Analog Inputs

1. Press

[F1] to set up input A or [F2] to set up input B.

Note: The set up of input A is used as an example in this manual. Identical procedures would be used to set up input B.

(An analog input option card may contain one standard analog input and one RTD analog input.)

2. Enter a Label of up to eight characters for input A and press

3. At the Input Measurement prompt, press

= PRESR (pressure), [F3] = TEMP (temperature) or [F4]

steam quality, choose

SPEC above.)

[F1] = OFF to disable input A and return to the previous prompt, or press [F2]

= SPEC (special) to designate the input. (To assign an input for

[ENT].

4. Do one of the following:

• If you selected PRESR or TEMP, proceed to step 5.

• If you selected SPEC, complete the steps below.

a. Enter an Input Name and press

b. Enter the Input Units of measurement and press

5. Enter the Zero Value for the low end of the chosen input range and press

6. Enter the Full Scale Value for the high end of the chosen input range and press

7. Press

[F1]-[F2] to set up another input or press [EXIT] to select another slot for setup.

[ENT].

[ENT].

[ENT].

[ENT].

34 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Setting up the RTD Inputs

Option cards with RTD inputs have a temperature range of –100° to 350°C. Complete the following steps to set up the
two RTD inputs of an option card installed in Slot x:

1. Press

[F1] to set up RTD input A or [F2] to set up RTD input B.

Note: The setup of RTD input A is used as an example. Identical procedures would be used to set up RTD input B.

2. Enter a label of up to eight characters and press

3. At the Input Measurement prompt, press

[F2] = TEMP to enable RTD input A.

press

[F1] = OFF to disable RTD input A and return to the previous prompt, or

4. Enter the Zero Value for the low end of the chosen input range and press

5. Enter the Full Scale Value for the high end of the chosen input range and press

6. Press

[F1]-[F2] to set up another input or press [EXIT] to select another slot for set up.

[ENT].

[ENT].

[ENT].

For instructions on setting up additional inputs and/or outputs, proceed to the appropriate section. Otherwise, press

[EXIT] twice to return to the Global PROGRAM prompt.

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

Global I/O prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 35

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.4 Setting Up Serial Communications

The Model GS868 flowmeter can transmit stored data and displayed readings to a remote ANSI terminal or a personal
computer by connecting the meter’s RS232 interface to the serial port of the PC. In addition, the Model GS868 can
receive and execute remote commands via this link.The meter can also be configured with a MODBUS option card for
MODBUS (RS485) communications, a Foundation Fieldbus option card for Foundation Fieldbus communications, an
Ethernet option card for Ethernet communications, or with a MODBUS/TCP option card for MODBUS
communications over the Ethernet, if desired.

Note: To set Fieldbus communications parameters, see Appendix D, Foundation Fieldbus Communications.

Use the

COMM submenu to set the RS232, MODBUS, Ethernet and MODBUS/TCP communications port parameters

and to enter a network identification number.T A network identification number is required to use the GE Instrument
Data Manager or PanaView software. While following the programming instructions, refer to the menu map in
Figure 13 on page 97.

1. To enter the

2. Use the

COMM submenu, press [F4] at the Global PROGRAM screen.

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Baud Rate. The available rates are 300, 600, 1200,

2400, 4800, 9600 and 19,200 baud.

3. Use the

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the number of UART Bits, as shown in Table 11 below.

Table 11: UART Bits Options

Option Bar # Data Bits # Stop Bits Parity

8,no 8 0 None

8,odd 8 0 Odd

8even 8 0 Even

7,odd 7 1 Odd

7even 7 1 Even

4. Enter a Network ID number between 1 and 254 and press

[ENT]. The default number is 1.

A network ID number is only necessary for communication with the GE Instrument Data Manager or PanaView
software. See the software User’s Manual for more information.

IMPORTANT: If the network ID number is changed, communication with the Instrument Data Manager or PanaView

must be re-established with the new ID number.

1.8.4a MODBUS (RS485) Parameters

If your GS868 does not include an option card for MODBUS communications, you have completed programming the
COMM submenu. However, if you have installed a MODBUS option card, the following additional prompts appear.

1. Press

2. Press

3. Press

4. Use the numeric keys to enter a MODBUS Address (from 1 to 247) and press

36 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

[F1]-[F4] to select the desired MODBUS Baud Rate from four selections: 2400, 4800, 9600 and 19,200.

[F1]-[F3] to set the MODBUS Parity as none, odd or even.

[F1] to select one MODBUS Stop Bit, or [F2] to select two stop bits.

[ENT].

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.4b MODBUS/TCP Parameters

If your GS868 does not include an option card for MODBUS/TCP communications, you have completed programming
the COMM submenu. However, if you have installed a MODBUS/TCP option card, complete the following steps:

1. Press

2. Press

3. Press

4. Use the numeric keys to enter a MODBUS Address (from 1 to 247) and press

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

[F3]to select the appropriate MODBUS Baud Rate of 9600.

[F1]-[F3] to set the MODBUS Parity as none, odd or even.

[F1] to select one MODBUS Stop Bit, or [F2] to select two stop bits.

[ENT].

Global PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 37

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.5 MODBUS Register Map

When equipped with the optional MODBUS output card, the GS868 flow transmitter can send flow data and diagnostic
information to a flow computer (or SCADA) serially, using a Gould-type RTU protocol. In this case, only the
MODBUS function command, 3 (read multiple registers), 6 (write multiple registers) is valid. The format for the data
exchange is as follows:

• The send command (initiated by the host flow computer or controller) comes in the form:

[time delimiter]<Addr><3><First Register MSB>
<First Register LSB><Register Count MSB>
<Register Count LSB><CRC Low><CRC High>[time delimiter]

• The response (initiated by the host flow computer or controller) comes in the form:

[time delimiter]<Addr><3><Byte count><Data.........>

<CRC Low><CRC High>[time delimiter]

The format for the returned data types is as follows:

• Integer (16 bit Integer) <MSB><LSB>

1 Register - 16 bit integer

• Integer (32 bit IntegerI) <MSB><LSB><LSB><LSB>

2 Register - 32 bit integer

• Floating Point (FP) <EXP><MAN><MAN><MAN>

2 Registers - 32 bit IEEE floating point number

To request specific parameters from the GS868 via the MODBUS, the control system must enter the appropriate
register number. Only registers 1 through 90 are available for MODBUS communications, while registers 508 through
512 are used by the GS868 to store the MODBUS parameters. For details, see Table 12 on page 39.

38 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

MODBUS

Reg #

Table 12: MODBUS Registers for a 2-Channel GS868

DPR

Hex Addr Description

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Scaling

(decimal places) Size in Bytes

10

22

1”

Clear Ch1 Totalizers”

1“

Clear Ch2 Totalizers”

-- 2 (16 bit signed)

-- 2 (16 bit signed)

3 4 Ch1 Velocity 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

5 8 Ch1 Act Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

7 C Ch1 Std Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

9 10 Ch1 Fwd Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

11 14 Ch1 Rev Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

13 18 Ch1 #Tot Digits 0 2

14 1A Ch1 Mass Flow #M DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

16 1E Ch1 Fwd Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

18 22 Ch1 Rev Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

20 26 Ch1 #Mass Tot Digits 0 2

21 28 Ch1 Timer 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

23 2C Ch1 Error Code 0 2

24 2E Ch1 Sound Speed 3 4 (2 16-bit int)

26 32 Ch1 Density 4 4 (2 16-bit int)

28 36 Ch1 Sig Strength Upstream 1 4 (2 16-bit int)

30 3A Ch1 Sig Strength Downstream 1 4 (2 16-bit int)

32 3E Ch1 Temperature 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

34 42 Ch1 Pressure 3 4 (2 16-bit int)

36 46 Ch2 Velocity 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

38 4A Ch2 Act Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

40 4E Ch2 Std Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

42 52 Ch2 Fwd Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

44 56 Ch2 Rev Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

46 5A Ch2 #Tot Digits 0 2

47 5C Ch2 Mass Flow #M DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

49 60 Ch2 Fwd Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 39

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Table 12: MODBUS Registers for a 2-Channel GS868 (cont.)

MODBUS

Reg #

DPR

Hex Addr Description

51 64 Ch2 Rev Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

53 68 Ch2 #Mass Tot Digits 0 2

54 6A Ch2 Timer 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

56 6E Ch2 Error Code 0 2

57 70 Ch2 Sound Speed 3 4 (2 16-bit int)

59 74 Ch2 Density 4 4 (2 16-bit int)

61 78 Ch2 Sig Strength Upstream 1 4 (2 16-bit int)

63 7C Ch2 Sig Strength Downstream 1 4 (2 16-bit int)

65 80 Ch2 Temperature 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

67 84 Ch2 Pressure 3 4 (2 16-bit int)

Scaling

(decimal places) Size in Bytes

69 88 Avg Velocity 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

71 8C Avg Act Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

73 90 Avg Std Volumetric #Q DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

75 94 Avg Fwd Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

77 98 Avg Rev Totals #T DIGITS 4 (2 16 bit int)

79 9C Avg #Tot Digits 0 2

80 9E Avg Mass Flow #M DIGITS 4 (IEEE 32 bit)

82 A2 Avg Fwd Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

84 A6 Avg Rev Mass Totals #MT DIGITS 4 (2 16-bit int)

86 AA Avg #Mass Tot Digits 0 2

87 AC Avg Timer 2 4 (2 16-bit int)

89 B0

5

Avg Error Code

02

90 B2 Avg Sound Speed 3 4 (2 16-bit int)

508 3F6

2

MODBUS baud rate

02

509 3F8

510 3FA

3

MODBUS parity

4

MODBUS stop bits

02

02

511 3FC MODBUS meter addr 0 2

512 3FE RESERVED --- ---

40 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

Notes:

1. Clear Totalizers:

flag from the 8051 to clear either the Channel 1 or Channel 2 totalizers.

2. MODBUS baud rate:

5 = 2400, 6 = 4800, 7 = 9600, 8 = 19,200

3. MODBUS parity:

0 = none, 1 = odd, 2 = even

4. MODBUS stop bits:

1 = 1 stop bit, 2 = 2 stop bits

5. AV G E r ro r Co de :

0=Both Ch1 and Ch2 are in error.
1=Ch1 only is in error
2=Ch2 only is in error
3=Both channels are error free

6. You must scale measurements in the host system. For example, velocity scaling is two decimal places; thus, if the MODBUS card reports that

the velocity is 100, the host system must interpret the number as 1.00 (two decimal places)

1.8.6 Activating Security

In order to prevent unauthorized tampering with the flowmeter’s programming, the Model GS868 is equipped with a
security feature that locks out the following menus:

• Program Menu [PROG]

• Calibration Menu [CAL]

• Log Menu [LOG]

• Clear Menu [CLR]

When the system is locked, access to the above menus will be denied unless the correct password is entered. The Model
GS868 is shipped with a default password, which is given later in this section. For increased security, the default
password should be changed.

IMPORTANT: Once the system has been locked, it can only be unlocked by entering the password, because access to the

SECUR submenu is restricted.

To pr ogram the

IMPORTANT: It is recommended that all program parameters be recorded before changing the password. (This

1. At the Lock Out prompt, press

[F2] = LOCK to lock the system.

SECUR submenu, press ] and [F1] at the Global PROGRAM prompt. Refer to Figure 13 on page 97.

information should be recorded in Appendix B, Data Records, as a matter of routine.) If the password is
lost, the site data is not

retrievable and will have to be re-entered.

[F1] = UNlck to unlock the system and return to the Global PROGRAM prompt, or press

Note: If the system was unlocked at the above prompt, the following three prompts do not appear.

2. Enter the current Password (2719 is the default password) and press

3. At the ?Edit Password prompt, press

prompt, or press

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 41

[F2] = YES to enter a new password.

[F1] = NO to leave the password unchanged and return to the Global PROGRAM

[ENT].

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.6 Activating Security (cont.)

IMPORTANT: Since the default password is printed in this manual, a new password should be entered. If the password is

ever lost, contact the factory for assistance.

4. Enter the New Password and press
be used as a password.

Note: Keep in mind that the password may have to be entered frequently from the keypad. A long and/or complex

password may soon become annoying to use.

5. Verify the New Password by entering it again and press

Procedure Options

After completing the above steps, the meter returns to the

[ENT]. Any combination of letters and numbers up to a total of 21 characters may

[ENT]. Be sure to record the new password in a safe place.

Global PROGRAM prompt. Continue as follows:

• To continue programming the meter, refer to the menu maps in Appendix A and navigate to the desired menu.

Then, proceed to the appropriate section of this manual for instructions.

• To leave the User Program and retain the previous settings, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F1] = NO at the

SAVE prompt. Any programming changes will be discarded and you will be returned to the data display.

• To leave the User Program and return to measurement mode, press [EXIT] twice and then press [F2] = YES at the

SAVE prompt. Your programming changes will be entered into the meter’s memory, and you will be returned to

the data display.

Note: See the

SAVE submenu section on the following page for more information on this function

42 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.7 Saving Site Data

The currently programmed site data may be stored in the Model GS868’s non-volatile memory by saving it as a site
file. Up to ten site file names, consisting of up to five characters each, may be stored at any given time. To enter the

SAVE menu, press [F4] at the initial User Program screen. Refer to Figure 13 on page 97.

1. Enter a new site file name and press

[ENT], or use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select and overwrite an existing

site file.

Note: The option bar will show only as many choices as there are existing site files.

If ten site files are already stored in memory, an existing site file must be deleted before a new site file name can be
assigned. See Chapter 5, Clearing Data, for details.

When a site file is stored in memory, it becomes the active site file until another site file is created or retrieved. (See the
next section for instructions on retrieving a site file.) To verify that the site file has been saved, use the
back to the

SITE NAME prompt and see if the name appears on the option bar (use the ] and ] keys to scroll through

] key to scroll

the list, if necessary). Whenever a new site file name is saved, it is automatically assigned to the next available function
key.

IMPORTANT: The CLOCK and I/O data is not saved with the site file, while the SYSTM and COMM data is saved with the

site file.

2. Use the

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select another menu, or press [EXIT] to leave the User Program and return

to measurement mode.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 43

Chapter 1. Programming Site Data

1.8.8 Recalling a Site

Any site file currently stored in the Model GS868’s non-volatile memory may be recalled at any time. Up to ten site file
names, consisting of up to five characters each, may be stored at any given time. To enter the

[F1] at the initial User Program screen.

RECLL menu, press [ and

1. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select and recall an existing site file.

Note: The option bar shows only as many choices as there are existing site files. The files are listed in chronological

order by creation date.

Upon recall, the selected site file becomes active and all of its programmed parameters become current.

IMPORTANT: The CLOCK and I/O data is not recalled with the site file, while the SYSTM and COMM data is recalled with

the site file.

Note: If you have loaded a site file into a GS868, but the option cards are not in the same slots or programmed the

same way as when the site file was first saved, the GS868 displays a warning to review slot information. This
display does not mean that the option cards have lost their program information!

Use the

] and ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select another menu, or press [EXIT] to leave the User Program and return to

measurement mode.

44 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.1 Introduction

This chapter explains how to display measurement data in various formats. Each of the two display screen panes may
be programmed independently.

Note: The instructions in this chapter assume that the left display pane is active. If the right display pane is active,

simply change all

The following submenus are included in the Display Menu:

• BIG - displays a single measurement in large size text

• DUAL - permits the simultaneous display of two measurements, in the same screen pane, in standard size text

• GRAPH - displays a graph of either velocity or volumetric flow versus time

• LOG - displays the data stored in a log file either graphically or numerically

[F1]-[F4] designations to [F5]-[F8].

• SIGNL - graphically displays any one of five transducer signals versus time

• BACKL - sets the time that the LCD display backlight remains on before it is automatically turned off.

• SLEEP - blanks out the display screen until a key is pressed.

Refer to Figure 15 on page 99 of Appendix A, Menu Maps, and proceed to the appropriate section to set up the Model
GS868 display screen(s), using one of the listed submenus.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 45

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.2 The BIG Format

The BIG format, which is the Model GS868’s default power up format, displays one measurement in large print. To
select the
up, a standard measurement mode display (similar to the one shown below) appears. Press the appropriate side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the following steps:

BIG format and the measurement to display in this format, follow the instructions in this section. Upon power

site label site file

Velocity Ft/s

6.95

(error codes appear here)

VEL VOLUM +TOTL -TOTL

DISPLAY FEATURES

DISPLAY FORMAT

previous selection appears here

BIG DUAL GRAPH LOG

site label site file

Velocity Ft/s

The default power up screen is already in BIG mode. If a different display
mode is active, access the Display Menu by pressing the

Press [F1] to select the BIG option. The measurement mode screen
reappears with the display in the

Use the [F1]-[F4], ] and ] keys to select the desired display
parameter option. See Table 13 below for a complete description of the
available options.

BIG format.

[DISP] key.

6.95

(error codes appear here)

VEL VOLUM +TOTL -TOTL

Table 13: Measurement Parameter Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = VEL Flow Velocity

[F2] = VOLUM Volumetric Flow

[F3] = +TOTL Forward Totalized Volume Flow

[F4] = -TOTL Reverse Totalized Volume Flow

] + [F1] = TIME

] + [F2] = MDOT

] + [F3] = +MASS

] + [F4] = -MASS

] + ] + [F1] = DIAG

Note: See Chapter 3, Operation, of the Startup Guide for more details on selecting a measurement parameter to

display.

Total Flow Measurement Time

Mass Flow

Forward Totalized Mass Flow

Reverse Totalized Mass Flow

Diagnostic

46 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.3 The DUAL Format

The DUAL format displays two measurements simultaneously in normal print. To select the DUAL format and the
measurements to display in this format, follow the instructions in this section.

Upon power up, a standard measurement mode display (similar to the one shown below) appears in
the appropriate side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the following

BIG format. Press

steps:

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

2. Press

3. Use the

[F2] = DUAL. The measurement mode display reappears and the display is now in the DUAL format.

[F1]-[F4], ] and ] keys to select the desired display parameter option. See Table 13 on page 46 for a

[DISP] key.

complete description of the available options.

Note: See Chapter 3, Operation, of the Startup Guide for more details on selecting a measurement parameter to

display.

With the

DUAL format display screen active, when a measurement parameter is selected, the top line of the prompt area

will be changed to show that parameter. The parameter previously displayed at the top of the display is moved to the
bottom of the display, and the previous bottom parameter is no longer shown.

2.4 The GRAPH Format

The GRAPH submenu permits the display of either the flow velocity, mass flow or the volumetric flow on an XY bar
graph, with a specified time interval on the x-axis. This section describes the procedures for setting up and using the
graph format.

2.4.1 Setting Up the GRAPH Format

Press the appropriate side of the [SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the
following steps:

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

2. Press

3. Press

4. Use the

[F3] = GRAPH.

[F1]-[F3] to graph the Flow Velocity, Volumetric Flow or Mass Flow, respectively.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Time Increment.

5. Enter a maximum value for the Y-a xis (vertical) scale that is larger than the maximum expected reading and press

[ENT].

6. At the Y Range prompt, press

[F1] to graph only positive Y values or press [F2] to graph both positive and negative

Y values.

After the

Y RANGE is entered, the Model GS868 automatically begins taking measurements and displays them in the

specified graphical format. Proceed to the next section for a discussion of manipulating the graphical display.

[DISP] key.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 47

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.4.2 Using the GRAPH Format

While viewing data in the GRAPH format, the function keys are programmed to permit a variety of actions. These
options are described in detail below.

1.23 Ft/s 10:16

V

E

L

ST: 08 MAR 09:50

<CURS CURS> START END

At any given time, 120 data points will be shown on the

Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired option. See
Table 14 on page 49 for a listing of the available choices.

GRAPH screen. The cursor, which is displayed as a vertical line

that extends the full height of the graph window, can be used to select any one of these data points.

The typical screen shown above is for a Velocity vs. Time graph with only the positive y-axis displayed. The
measurement parameter

(VEL) is shown to the left of the y-axis and there is a message line below the graph that initially

indicates the starting date and time of the graphed data. Notice that most of the locator bar has been replaced by a status
line in standard video that shows the value, units and time of the measurement at the current cursor location. However,

there is still an inverse video pointer at the far right of this line to indicate that additional option bar choices are
available.

Note: The date in the message line includes only the day and the month (not the year), and the times in the status line

and the message line includes only the hours and minutes (not the seconds).

Because the times displayed in the
a visible change in the posted times. For example, if a

GRAPH format are in whole minutes only, movement of the cursor may not result in

TIME INCREMENT of 30 seconds has been programmed, two

presses of either cursor movement key will be required to change the displayed time by one minute.

48 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

2.4.2 Using the GRAPH Format (cont.)

Table 14: Graph Display Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = <CURS Moves the cursor to the left and displays the corresponding

measurement value and time in the status line:
(i.e.

[F2] = CURS> Moves the cursor to the right and displays the

corresponding measurement value and time in the status
line:
(i.e.

[F3] = START Moves the cursor all the way to the left side of the graph

and posts the starting date and time in the message line:
(i.e.

[F4] = END Moves the cursor all the way to the right side of the graph

and posts the ending date and time in the message line:
(i.e.

[ + [F1] = YMAX Displays the programmed maximum Y value in the

message line:
(i.e.

[ + [F2] = T INC Displays the programmed time increment value in the

message line:
(i.e.

[ + [F3] = EXIT Leaves the GRAPH format and returns the display to the

previous data format. (The
also perform this function.)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

6.85 Ft/s 10:38)

5.31 Ft/s 10:38)

ST: 08 MAR 10:38)

END 08 MAR 11:14)

YMAX 25.0 Ft/s)

T INC 30 seconds)

[EXIT] key on the keypad will

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 49

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.5 The LOG Format

The LOG submenu permits the display of the data in a log file either graphically or numerically. Although the Model
GS868 can display all of the data in a log file, screen size limitations prevent the simultaneous display of the complete
log file. Therefore, the function keys must be used to view the remaining data. Follow the instructions in this section to
display a log file in the desired format.

2.5.1 Entering the LOG Submenu

Press the appropriate side of the [SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the
following steps:

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

2. Press

3. Use the

[F4] = LOG.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired log file to display. At the NAME prompt, the option bar will

[DISP] key.

show the names of all log files that are currently stored in memory. If there are no log files currently stored in
memory, the following prompt will appear instead:

DISPLAY FEAT URE S

DISPLAY FORMAT

logging

All Logs Cleared!

hit key

If the

All Logs Cleared! prompt appears, at least one log file must be created and stored in memory before the Display

There are no log files currently stored in memory. Either all of the log files
have been cleared or no log files have yet been created. Press any key to
return to measurement mode.

Log function can be accessed. See Chapter 3, Logging Data, for instructions on creating a log file. After at least one log
file is stored in memory and selected at the

4. At the Format prompt, press

[F1] to display the selected log in numeric format or press [F2] to display the selected

NAME prompt of the LOG submenu, proceed to the next step.

log in graphical format.

5. Do one of the following:

• If you pressed [F1], go to the next page.

• If you pressed [F2], go to page 52.

50 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.5.2 Numeric Format

The Model GS868 can log up to three parameters simultaneously. Each set of data values is called a record, and up to
120 consecutive records can be stored in a page. A log file can consist of up to 120 pages. The numeric log display,
which shows one record at a time, includes the following components:

• page number

• record number

• time and date of creation

• measurement value set

• error messages (if any)

Upon choosing

NUM at the FORMAT prompt, the first record of the selected log file is displayed in a screen similar to the

following:

PAGE# 1 REC# 80

09 MAR 98

11.66 Ft/s

1.32 KACF/MI

6.91 KACF

E5: Amplitude

<CURS CURS> <PAGE PA GE>

Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to view additional records or to exit
the log display. The options are listed in Table 15 below.

In the numeric display screen, the locator bar (except for the inverse video pointer at the far right) is replaced by a
standard video display of the page number and record number. The first line of the prompt area shows the time and date
that the record was created, and the next three lines list the values for the three logged parameters. Finally, any error
condition that existed at the time the record was taken is indicated by an error code in the bottom line of the prompt
area.

Table 15: Numeric Log Display Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = <CURS display the previous record on the current page

[F2] = CURS> display the next record on the current page

[F3] = <PAGE display the previous page

[F4] = PAGE> display the next page

] + [F1] = START

] + [F2] = END

] + [F3] = EXIT

display the first record on the current page

display the last record on the current page

Leave the numeric LOG display and return to the
previous data format. (The

[EXIT] key on the

keypad will also perform this function.)

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 51

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.5.3 Graphical Format

After choosing PLOT at the FORMAT prompt, the programming sequence continues as follows:

6. Enter a maximum value for the Y-ax is (vertical) scale that is larger than the maximum expected reading. Press

[ENT].

7. At the Y Range prompt, press

[F1] to graph only positive Y values or press [F2] to graph both positive and negative

Y values.

After the

Y RANGE is entered, the Model GS868 automatically displays the chosen log file records in the specified

graphical format.

1.23 Ft/s 10:16

V

E

L

ST: 08 MAR 09:50

<CURS CURS> START END

Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired option. See
Table 16 on page 52 for the list of options.

At any given time, the 120 records stored in one page of the log file will be graphed on the display screen. The cursor,
which is shown as a vertical line that extends the full height of the graph window, can be used to highlight any one of
these records.

IMPORTANT: Only the first of the three logged parameters is displayed in the graphical format of the LOG submenu.

Therefore, when creating a log file, be sure to specify the parameter to be graphed at the

1st Value Logged

prompt. See Chapter 3, Logging Data, for details on creating a log file.

Table 16: Graphical Log Display Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = <CURS Move the cursor one record to the left and display the value

and time of that record in the status line:

6.85 Ft/s 10:38)

(i.e.

[F2] = CURS> Move the cursor one record to the right and display the value

and time of that record in the status line:

5.31 Ft/s 10:38)

(i.e.

[F3] = <PAGE Display the previous page of records

[F4] = PAGE> Display the next page of records

[ + [F1] = START Move the cursor to the first record on the current page and post

the date and time of that record in the message line:

ST: 08 MAR 10:38)

(i.e.

[ + [F2] = END Move the cursor to the last record on the current page and post

the date and time of that record in the message line:

END 08 MAR 11:14)

(i.e.

52 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

Table 16: Graphical Log Display Options (cont.)

Option Bar Choice Description

[ + [F3] = YMAX Display the programmed maximum Y value in the message

line:

YMAX 25.0 Ft/s)

(i.e.

[ + [F4] = T INC Display the time increment value, as set when the log file was

created, in the message line:

T INC 30 seconds)

(i.e.

[ + [F1] = EXIT Leave the graphical LOG display and return the display to the

previous data format. (The

[EXIT] key on the keypad will also

perform this function.)

2.5.3 Graphical Format (cont.)

In the typical graphical display shown, the first logged parameter (VEL) is shown to the left of the y-axis and there is a
message line below the graph that initially indicates the starting date and time of the current page. Notice that most of
the locator bar has been replaced by a status line in standard video that shows the value, units and time of the record at
the current cursor location. However, there is still an inverse video pointer at the far right of this line to indicate that
additional option bar choices are available.

Note: The date in the message line includes only the day and the month (not the year), and the times in the status line

and the message line include only the hours and minutes (not the seconds).

Because the times displayed in the
visible change in the posted times. For example, if a

LOG graph are in whole minutes only, movement of the cursor may not result in a

TIME INCREMENT of 30 seconds has been programmed, two presses

of either cursor movement key will be required to change the displayed time by one minute.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 53

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.6 Displaying the Transducer Signal

The SIGNL submenu permits the direct graphical display of several transducer signals. Specifically, the signals listed in
Table 17 below may be viewed in this format.

Table 17: Available Transducer Signals

Transducer Signal Description

Skan Types

Sup upstream Skan signal

Sdown downstream Skan signal

Cup upstream Skan correlation

Cdown downstream Skan correlation

Measure Types

Mup upstream Measure signal

Mdown downstream Measure signal

Note: The Measure type signals (Mup and Mdown) are only available if the

ACTIV menu.

S/M burst technique was selected in the

Refer to Figure 15 on page 99 and complete the following steps to display the transducer signals. Press the appropriate
side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, then proceed as follows:

Note: For this discussion, it is assumed that the left pane of the display screen is active. If the right pane is active, it

is only necessary to replace the

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

2. Press [ and

3. Press

Note: If the

[F1] = SIGNL.

[F1] to display the Skan type signals or press [F2] to display the Measure type signals.

Skan burst technique was selected in the ACTIV menu, the Signal to Display prompt does not appear and the

Measure type signals are not available. To access these signals, the

The signal graph is a plot of signal amplitude (y-axis) vs. time in microseconds (x-axis). When the

[F1]-[F4] keys designations by the [F5]-[F8] keys.

[DISP] key.

S/M burst technique must be selected.

SIGNL display screen

first appears, it may briefly remain blank. As soon as the signal is acquired, processed and loaded into the display
memory, the graph will appear. A cursor, which is displayed as a vertical line that extends the full height of the graph
window, is used to highlight any point in time along the x-axis.

54 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

2.6 Displaying the Transducer Signal (cont.)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

107 686.798mi

S

U

P

ST: 594.298usec

<CURS CURS> <PAGE PAG E>

Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired option. Options
are listed in Table 18 below.

The typical display screen shown has the Sup transducer signal listed to the left of the y-axis and there is a message line
below the graph that initially indicates the starting date and time of the graphed signal. Notice that most of the locator
bar has been replaced by a status line in standard video that shows the signal amplitude and the time (in microseconds)
of the measurement at the current cursor location. However, there is still an inverse video pointer at the far right of this
line to indicate that additional option bar choices are available.

Table 18: Graphical Log Display Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = <CURS Move the cursor to the left and display the

amplitude and time in the status line:

107 686.798mi)

(i.e.

[F2] = CURS> Move the cursor to the right and display

the amplitude and time in the status line:

107 686.798mi)

(i.e.

[F3] = <PAGE Display the previous page

[F4] = PAGE> Display the next page

] + [F1] = START

Move the cursor to the start of the current
page and post the starting date and time in
the message line: (i.e.

] + [F2] = END

Move the cursor to the end of the current
page and post the ending date and time in
the message line:

END: 744.298usec)

(i.e.

] + [F3] = YMAX

Display the maximum Y value, which is
set to 128 divisions in arbitrary units, in the
message line.

] + [F4] = T INC

Display the time increment value in the
message line. This is based on the
frequency of the transducers and would
equal 0.125 sec for a 1 MHz transducer.

]+ [F1] = EXIT

Leave the graphical SIGNL display and
return the display to the previous data
format. (The

[EXIT] key on the keypad will

also perform this function.)

ST: 451.798usec)

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 55

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.6 Displaying the Transducer Signal (cont.)

In addition to the functions available on the option bar, some of the numeric keys are used to specify which transducer
signal is displayed and to scale the resulting graph. Table 19 below lists these functions.

Table 19: Numeric Key Functions

Key Function

1

2

4

5

7

8

Scroll down the transducer signal list

Scroll up the transducer signal list

Expand the graph vertically

Return expanded graph to previous size

Compress graph horizontally

Return compressed graph to previous size

In summary, three basic functions are performed with the numeric keys:

• Signal Selection: use the “1” and “2” keys to select a transducer signal for display by scrolling through the list of

available signals.

• Vertical Scaling: The “4” and “5” keys are used to scale the graph vertically. Each press of the “4” key doubles the

height of the graph, while each press of the “5” key halves the height of the graph. The three available scale factors
are 1x, 2x and 4x.

• Horizontal Scaling: The “7” and “8” keys are used to scale the graph horizontally. Each press of the “7” key

doubles the
horizontal expansion). The four available compression ratios are 1x, 2x, 4x and 8x.

To return to the standard data screen, either select

T INC value (2x horizontal compression), while each press of the “8” key halves the T INC value (2x

EXIT from the option bar or press the [EXIT] key on the keypad.

56 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

2.7 Setting the LCD Backlight

Use the BACKL submenu to specify the number of minutes the LCD display backlight remains on before it is
automatically turned off. Press the appropriate side of the
screen, then proceed as follows:

Note: For this discussion, it is assumed that the left pane of the display screen is active. If the right pane is active,

replace the

[F1]-[F4] keys designations by the [F5]-[F8] keys.

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

2. Press

] and [F2] = BACKL.

3. Use the numeric keys to enter a value from 1 to 60 minutes and press

enter a value of 0 and press

[ENT].

[DISP] key.

[ENT]. To keep the backlight on constantly,

The Model GS868 will automatically return to the previous data display screen and the programmed backlight timeout
interval will begin.

If no entries are made from the keypad before the backlight timeout interval expires, the backlight will automatically be
turned off. At the next keypad entry, the backlight will be turned on and the specified timeout interval will begin again.

2.8 Activating Sleep Mode

During times when the display is not in use, use the SLEEP submenu to temporarily suspend LCD display activity, which
allows the Model GS868 to process data more quickly. Press the appropriate side of the
desired pane of the display screen, then proceed as follows:

Note: For this discussion, it is assumed that the left pane of the display screen is active. If the right pane is active,

replace the

1. To access the Display Menu, press the

[F1]-[F4] keys designations by the [F5]-[F8] keys.

[DISP] key.

[SCREEN] key to activate the

2. Press

] and [F3] = SLEEP. The message “LCD SLEEP MODE -Press any key . . .” appears.

3. To reactivate the display and return to the previous data screen, press any key on the keypad. The Model GS868

will automatically return to the previous data display screen.

Note: With

BIG as the selected display format, exiting SLEEP mode may not erase the sleep mode message and the data

screen will be superimposed on the message. If this occurs, simply enter the

DISP menu and reselect the BIG

format to refresh the screen. See the instructions earlier in this chapter.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 57

Chapter 2. Displaying Data

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58 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 3. Logging Data

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.1 Introduction

This chapter explains how to use the Model GS868’s data logging capability. The LOG menu, which is accessed by
pressing the

• STD - used to log up to three of the available measurement data parameters

• MEM - used to check the data logger memory to determine if the specified log will exceed the available memory

• STOP - used to terminate current data logging activity

• ERROR - used to log any generated error messages.

Up to twenty standard or error log files may be created and stored in battery-backed memory. Each log file contains up
to three measurement parameters, the log start time and date, the log end time and date, the time interval between
updates, and any error messages. Error logs record data only when an error message is generated.

The Model GS868 allocates up to 120 pages of memory, each of which can contain up to 120 records, for data logging.
Each page is assigned a header, to distinguish one page from another. The header contains the log title, start date and
time, end date and time, and the time increment. Each record contains the date and time of the measurement and the
values for the three logged parameters.

[LOG] key on the keypad, is divided into four submenus:

Note: Each log file uses at least one page of memory, and the same page can not be shared by two different logs.

Since a fixed amount of memory is allocated for data logging, the number of active logs, the log time increments, and
the length of the log runs will all affect how much memory is available for additional logging. For example, a log that
updates every 5 seconds will use more memory than a log that updates every 6 minutes, assuming that they both run for
the same length of time.

After a log file has been created, it may be displayed, printed, cleared or uploaded to a personal computer. Refer to the
appropriate chapters of this manual for specific instructions.

Refer to Figure 17 on page 101 in Appendix A, Menu Maps, and proceed to the appropriate section for the desired
submenu. Each submenu may be followed in the sequence shown or the
through the prompts.

] and ] keys may be used to scroll

LOG

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 59

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.2 Creating a Standard Log

Use the STD submenu to create a new standard log and to select the parameters to log, the log start time and date, the log
end time and date, and the time increment. Also, any log file already stored in memory may be inspected and/or
changed.

Press the appropriate side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the

following steps:

1. To access the Log Menu, press the

[LOG] key.

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

3. Use the

[F1] = STD.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to inspect a completed log or to change an active log, or enter a new name (up

to 5 characters) and press

Note: At the

NAME prompt, the option bar will show the names of all completed or active log files that are currently

[ENT] to create a new log file.

[ENT].

stored in memory. Recall that a flashing asterisk (*) appears at the far right of the locator bar if the Model
GS868 is currently logging data (see Chapter 3, Operation, of the Startup Guide).

4. At the Log Message prompt, enter a brief description (up to 21 characters) of the log. Press

5. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the first parameter to be logged. See Table 20 below for a list of the

[ENT].

available options.

IMPORTANT: Only the first parameter logged may be graphically displayed in the LOG Submenu of the Display Menu.

Keep this in mind when selecting a parameter. See Chapter 2, Displaying Data, for instructions.

Table 20: Measurement Parameter Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = VEL Flow Velocity

[F2] = VOLUM Volumetric Flow

[F3] = +TOTL Forward Totalized Volume Flow

[F4] = -TOTL Reverse Totalized Volume Flow

[ + [F1] = MDOT Mass Flow

[ + [F2] = +MASS Forward Totalized Mass Flow

[ + [F3] = -MASS Reverse Totalized Mass Flow

[ + [F4] = DIAG Diagnostic

Refer to Chapter 3, Diagnostics, of the Service Manual for a discussion of the many parameters accessible via the

DIAG

option.

Note: The units assigned to the parameters in Table 20 on page 60 are those selected in the User Program (

SYSTM

submenu).

6. Use the

60 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the second parameter to be logged.

3.2 Creating a Standard Log (cont.)

7. Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the third parameter to be logged.

• If you selected a totalized value for display, go to step 8.

• If you did not, go to step 9.

Chapter 3. Logging Data

8. At the Set Log Totals to 0 prompt, press

totals to zero. Choosing

YES at this prompt only resets the log totals to zero and has no effect on the meter totals.

[F1] to leave the log totals at their present value or press [F2] to reset the log

3.2.1 Log Type

9. Press [F1] to create a non-circular log or press [F2] to create a circular log.

A non-circular log automatically stops when the meter runs out of memory or the specified
circular log runs continuously until manually stopped, but only the data from the most recent log cycle is saved. At the
start of each cycle, the oldest recorded data is overwritten by the new data from the current cycle.

CAUTION!

logged data will be lost.

If data from one circular log cycle exceeds the meter’s memory capacity, the earliest

END TIME is reached. A

3.2.2 STARTTIME Prompt

10. Press [F1] to accept the displayed start time or press [F2] to enter a different start time. To start logging immediately,

[F3].

press

• If OK was selected, proceed to step 11.

• If NOW was selected, proceed to step 12 if you selected a the non-circular log or to step 14 for a circular log.

• If EDIT was selected, complete the steps listed on the next page.

a. Press

b. Enter the desired Minutes and press

c. Enter the desired Seconds and press

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 61

[F1]-[F2] to select AM or PM. Then, enter the desired Hour (1-12) and press [ENT]. (Entry of a start time

earlier than the current time will generate an error message.)

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.2.3 START DATE Prompt

11. Press [F1] to accept the displayed Start Date or press [F2] to enter a different start date. To start logging today, press

[F3].

• If OK or TODAY was selected, proceed to step 12 for a non-circular log or to step 13 for a circular log.

• Otherwise, complete the following steps to Edit the Start Date.

a. Enter the desired Year and press

b. Use the

c. Enter the desired Day and press

(28, 29, 30 or 31).

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Month.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 99.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 1 to the number of days in the selected month

3.2.4 END TIME Prompt

12. Press [F1] to accept the displayed End Time or press [F2] to enter a different end time. To select a specific time
period for the log to run, press

[F3].

• If OK was selected, proceed to the END DATE prompt.

• If TIMED was selected, proceed to the LOG TIME prompt.

• If EDIT was selected, complete the steps on the next page.

Note: The log

result in an error message.

a. Press

earlier than the current time will generate an error message.)

b. Enter the desired Minutes and press

c. Enter the desired Seconds and press

END TIME must exceed the log START TIME by at least five minutes. Failure to observe this restriction will

[F1]-[F2] to select AM or PM. Then, enter the desired Hour (1-12) and press [ENT]. (Entry of a start time

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

3.2.5 END DATE Prompt

13. Press [F1] to accept the displayed end date or press [F2] to enter a different end date. To end the log today, press [F3].

• If OK or TODAY was selected, proceed to the TIME INCREMENT prompt. Refer to Figure 17 on page 101 for a flow

diagram of the programming sequences.

• Otherwise, complete the steps below.

a. Enter the desired Year and press

b. Use the

c. Enter the desired Day and press

(28, 29, 30 or 31). The program proceeds to step 15.

62 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Month.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 99.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 1 to the number of days in the selected month

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.2.6 DURATION Prompt

If a circular log was specified, the programming sequence continues here after the log start time and/or start date is
entered.

14. Press

[F1] and enter a log duration in hours or press [F2] and enter a log duration in days. When the desired value

has been entered, press

[ENT]. The program proceeds to step 16.

3.2.7 LOG TIME Prompt

If TIMED was selected at step 12, the programming sequence continues here.

15. Use the

60min, 3 HR, 6 HR, 12 HR and 24 HR.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired log duration.The available options are: 10min, 30min,

3.2.8 TIME INCREMENT Prompt

Regardless of which of the various options were selected during the previous programming steps, all of the paths
converge at this point.

16. Use the

30sec, 1min, 3min, 6min, 12min, 30min and 60 min.

The time increment is the frequency at which the Model GS868 takes and records data measurements. If any reading
takes longer than the programmed time increment, the log is filled in with the next consecutive reading. For example,
assume that a velocity value of 3 ft/sec is recorded at 12:00:00 in a log with a time increment of five seconds. If the
next reading is 8 ft/sec and it takes the meter 12 seconds to read this value, then both of the missed readings (12:00:05
and 12:00:10) will be filled in with the 8 ft/sec value.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Time Increment. The available options are: 5sec, 10sec,

Procedure Options

You have completed entering data for a standard log. You can now do one of the following:

• Use ] and ] to review the previous menu prompts.

• Press [F1]-[F4] to select one of the LOG submenus.

• To return to the data screen and begin logging data, press the [ENT] key.

Although each log is restricted to only three logged parameters, it is still possible to log more than three parameters.
Simply re-enter the
parameters, and run these logs simultaneously with the first log.

STD submenu as many times as necessary to set up additional logs. Select the other desired

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 63

Chapter 3. Logging Data

number of records

length of log

time increment

------------------------ ------------------=

number of pages

number of records

120

---------------------------------------------------=

3.3 Checking the Memory

Use the MEM submenu to verify that the available log memory is sufficient for the desired log. If the expected amount
of logged data will exceed the remaining memory capacity, the Model GS868 suggests that some old logs be cleared to
make room for the new log.

Press the appropriate side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the

following steps:

1. To access the Log Menu, press the

[LOG] key.

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

[F2] = MEM.

3. After noting the information, press

MEM screen lists the number of remaining unused memory pages out of the total number of 120 available pages.

The

[ENT].

[ENT] to return to the main Log Menu screen.

Also, the number of pages expected to be used by all currently programmed logs is given. If the number of pending
pages exceeds the number of free pages, additional memory may be made available by clearing some old logs (see
Chapter 5, Clearing Data).

If it is undesirable to delete old logs to free up additional memory, the number of pages pending may be reduced by
altering the parameters of one or more of the currently active logs. For example, either increasing the time increment or
decreasing the total logging time will reduce the memory requirements for a log file. Use the following equations to
calculate the number of pages used by a log:

(1)

Consider a log that is set to run for 24 hours with a time increment of 3 minutes. From Equation 3-1, the number of
records = (24 x 60)/3 = 480 records. Then, from Equation 3-2 above, the number of pages = 480/120 = 4 pages. Thus,
at least four pages of memory must be available for this log to run to completion. Notice that increasing the time
increment to 6 minutes or decreasing the length of the log to 12 hours would reduce the memory requirement to only 2
pages.

64 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

(2)

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.4 Stopping a Log

Use the STOP submenu to terminate a logging process that is currently active. Press the appropriate side of the [SCREEN]
key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the following steps:

1. To access the Log Menu, press the

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

Note: Once a log is stopped it cannot be restarted, but the log remains in memory. To clear the log from memory,

refer to Chapter 5, Clearing Data, for instructions.

2. Press

3. Use the

Note: At the

4. Press

Procedure Options

Do one of the following:

[F3] = STOP.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a log file to stop.

NAME prompt, the option bar will show the names of all completed or active log files that are currently

stored in memory. Recall that a flashing asterisk (*) appears at the far right of the locator bar if the Model
GS868 is currently logging data (see Chapter 3, Operation, of the Startup Guide).

[F1] to continue logging and return to the initial Log Menu screen. Press [F2] to stop logging and return to the

initial Log Menu screen.

[LOG] key.

[ENT].

• Press [F1]-[F4] to enter another LOG submenu.

• Press [EXIT] to return to the data screen.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 65

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.5 Creating an ERROR Log

Use the ERROR submenu to create a new error log and to select the logging parameters. An error log updates every 5
seconds (when the display updates), but only if a new error condition occurs. Error logs have a fixed length of 2 pages
and contain sixty records per page. Each record shows the time of the error, the measurement parameter values at that
time, and the error code message. The logged values of the chosen measurement parameters at the time of the error
condition provide valuable troubleshooting information.

Press the appropriate side of the

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the

following steps:

1. To access the Log Menu, press the

[LOG] key.

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

3. Use the

[F4] = ERROR.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to inspect a completed log or to change an active log, or enter a new Name (up

to 5 characters) and press

[ENT] to create a new log file.

[ENT].

Note: The option bar lists all error logs currently stored in memory. Recall that a flashing asterisk (*) appears at the

far right of the locator bar if the Model GS868 is currently logging data (see Chapter 3, Operation, of the
Startup Guide).

4. At the Log Message prompt, enter a brief description (up to 21 characters) of the log. Press

5. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the first parameter to be logged. See Table 21 below for a list of the

[ENT].

available options.

IMPORTANT: Only the first parameter logged may be graphically displayed (see Chapter 2, Displaying Data).

Table 21: Measurement Parameter Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = VEL Flow Velocity

[F2] = VOLUM Volumetric Flow

[F3] = +TOTL Forward Totalized Volume Flow

[F4] = -TOTL Reverse Totalized Volume Flow

[ + [F1] = MDOT Mass Flow

[ + [F2] = +MASS Forward Totalized Mass Flow

[ + [F3] = -MASS Reverse Totalized Mass Flow

[ + [F4] = DIAG Diagnostic

In addition, refer to Chapter 3, Diagnostics, of the Service Manual for a discussion of the many parameters accessible
via the

Note: The units assigned to the parameters in Table 21 on page 66 are those selected in the User Program (

DIAG option.

SYSTM

submenu).

66 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

3.5 Creating an ERROR Log (cont.)

6. Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the second parameter to be logged.

Chapter 3. Logging Data

7. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the third parameter to be logged.

• If you selected a totalized value for display, go to step 8.

• If you did not, go to step 9.

8. At the Set Log Totals to 0 prompt, press

totals to zero. Choosing

YES at this prompt only resets the log totals to zero and has no effect on the meter totals.

3.5.1 Log Type

9. Press [F1] to create a non-circular log or press [F2] to create a circular log.

A non-circular log automatically stops when the meter runs out of memory or the specified
circular log runs continuously until manually stopped, but only the data from the most recent log cycle is saved. At the
start of each cycle, the oldest recorded data is overwritten by the new data from the current cycle.

3.5.2 STARTTIME Prompt

CAUTION!

logged data will be lost.

10. Press [F1] to accept the displayed start time or press [F2] to enter a different start time. To start logging immediately,

[F3].

press

If data from one circular log cycle exceeds the meter’s memory capacity, the earliest

[F1] to leave the log totals at their present value or press [F2] to reset the log

END TIME is reached. A

• If OK was selected, proceed to step 11.

• If NOW was selected, you have finished setting up the error log. Proceed to Procedure Options on the next page.

• If EDIT was selected, complete the steps listed on the next page.

a. Press

b. Enter the desired Minutes and press

c. Enter the desired Seconds and press

[F1]-[F2] to select AM or PM. Then, enter the desired Hour (1-12) and press [ENT]. (Entry of a start time

earlier than the current time will generate an error message.)

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 59.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 67

Chapter 3. Logging Data

3.5.3 START DATE Prompt

11. Press [F1] to accept the displayed Start Date or press [F2] to enter a different start date. To start logging today, press

[F3].

• If OK or TODAY was selected, you have finished setting up the error log. Proceed to Procedure Options below.

• Otherwise, complete the following steps to Edit the Start Date.

a. Enter the desired Year and press

b. Use the

c. Enter the desired Day and press

(28, 29, 30 or 31).

Procedure Options

You have completed setting up the error log. Do one of the following:

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Month.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 0 to 99.

[ENT]. The acceptable range is 1 to the number of days in the selected month

• Use ] and ] to review the previous menu prompts.

• Press [F1]-[F4] to select one of the LOG submenus.

• To return to the data screen and begin logging data, press the [ENT] key. The * on the locator bar indicates that the

Model GS868 is now compiling the specified error log.

The error log will continue to run until it is manually stopped, the meter runs out of memory (for a non-circular log), or
the entire 120 records (2 pages x 60 records/page) have been logged.

68 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 4. Printing Data

Chapter 4. Printing Data

4.1 Introduction

The Model GS868 flowmeter has the capability to print any of the data stored in its memory via the built-in RS232
communications port. In order to use the function, the RS232 port must be connected to a printer with a serial port
input. A printer with a parallel port input may be used with a third-party serial-to-parallel adapter.

Note: See Chapter 1, Installation, of the Startup Guide for instructions on wiring the RS232 port. For additional

information, refer to the EIA-RS Serial Communications user’s guide (916-054).

After connecting the Model GS868 to a printer, the Print Menu is used to print live or logged data in either numeric or
graphical format. In addition, any site files stored in memory may be printed. The Print Menu is divided into the
following submenus:

• DATA - use to print live data in numeric or graphical format

• LOG - use to print a log file in numeric or graphical format

• PROG - use to print a site file

• STOP - use to terminate any active print jobs

• PRNTR - use to specify the printer currently connected

• SGNLS - use to print transducer signal array data

• RTDs - use to send the numeric point value of a connected RTD device to the RS232 port.

For purposes of this discussion it is assumed that the left pane of the data display screen is active. If the right pane of
the data display screen is active, all of the instructions remain the same, except that any references to the
should be replaced by the

Refer to Figure 16 on page 100 in Appendix A, Menu Maps, and proceed to the desired section for detailed
instructions. As an additional aid, the relevant portion of the full menu map is reproduced in each section of this
chapter. Any submenu may be followed in the sequence shown or the
the prompts.

Note: If a printer has not yet been set up, the instructions in “The

proceeding to any of the other submenus.

[F5]-[F8] keys.

] and ] keys may be used to scroll through

PRNTR Submenu” must be completed before

[F1]-[F4] keys

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 69

Chapter 4. Printing Data

4.2 Print Live Data

Use the DATA submenu to print live measurement data, as it is collected. The data may be printed in either numeric or
graphical format, with a user specified time increment.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that a printer has been properly set up before proceeding with this section.

To print live measurement data, refer to Figure 16 on page 100, and complete the following steps:

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press

3. Press

[F1] to select the DATA option.

[F1] = NUM to print the data in numeric format or press [F2] = PLOT to print the data in graphical format.

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[PRNT] key.

• If you press [F1], go to step 4.

• If you press [F2], go to step 8.

4.2.1 Numeric Format

4. Use the ], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the first parameter to be printed. See Table 22 below for a list of the
available options.

Table 22: Measurement Parameter Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = VEL Flow Velocity

[F2] = VOLUM Volumetric Flow

[F3] = +TOTL Forward Totalized Volume Flow

[F4] = -TOTL Reverse Totalized Volume Flow

] + [F1] = MDOT

Mass Flow

] + [F2] = +MASS

] + [F3] = -MASS

] + [F4] = DIAG

Refer to Chapter 3, Diagnostics, of the Service Manual for a discussion of the many parameters accessible via the

Forward Totalized Mass Flow

Reverse Totalized Mass Flow

Diagnostic

DIAG

option.

Note: The units assigned to the parameters in Table 22 above are those selected in the User Program (

SYSTM

submenu).

5. Use the

6. Use the

7. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the second parameter to be printed.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the third parameter to be printed.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired time increment (the frequency at which measurements are

taken). The available options are: 5sec, 10sec, 30sec, 1min, 3min, 6min and 12min.

70 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 4. Printing Data

DATA_DUMP OF (SITE NAME)
Site LABEL Site MESSAGE

Start Date
Start Time

HH:MM:SS

03:08:40
03:08:50
03:09:00
03:09:10
03:09:20
03:09:30
03:09:40
03:09:50
03:10:00
03:10:10
.
.
.

ACF/HR

686.85

684.00

678.12

680.58

.

.

670.70

675.99

669.79

675.59

662.28

666.71

.

VOLUM

232.57

236.34

234.46

.

.

.

ACF

230.45

228.58

226.71

224.84

222.70

220.83

218.92

+TOTL

20 OCT 97
03:08:40 PM

1039.082

.

.

1038.860

1039.255

.

FT/S

103

9.511

1039.105

1039.137

1039.470

1039.509

1039.003

1039.147

SNDSP

4.2.1 Numeric Format (cont.)

After the time increment is chosen, the Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and continues to take
measurements. The live data is printed at the specified time intervals, until a
instructions for the

STOP submenu). A portion of a typical printout is shown in Figure 3 below.

STOP command is issued (see the

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 71

Figure 3: Typical Numeric Printout

Chapter 4. Printing Data

0.0

.1

.2

.3

.4

.5

.6

.7

.8

.9

1.0

0.0

.1

.2

.4

.3

.5

.7

.6

.8

.9

1.0

SITE NAME

SITE MESSAGE

X-AXIS 50 seconds PER-DIV

Y-AXIS MAX 500 ACF/M

START TIME
03:27:01 PM
20 OCT 97

END TIME

03:28:46 PM

20 OCT 97

4.2.2 Graphical Format

To print live data in graphical format, continue as follows:

8. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the first parameter to be printed. See Table 23 on page 72 for a list of

the available options.

Table 23: Measurement Parameter Options

Option Bar Choice Description

[F1] = VEL Flow Velocity

[F2] = VOLUM Volumetric Flow

[F3] = +TOTL Forward Totalized Volume Flow

[F4] = -TOTL Reverse Totalized Volume Flow

] + [F1] = MDOT

] + [F2] = +MASS

] + [F3] = -MASS

] + [F4] = DIAG

Mass Flow

Forward Totalized Mass Flow

Reverse Totalized Mass Flow

Diagnostic

Refer to Chapter 3, Diagnostics, of the Service Manual for a discussion of the many parameters accessible via the
option.

Note: The units assigned to the parameters in Table 23 above are those selected in the User Program (

SYSTM

submenu).

9. Enter the desired maximum value for the Y (vertical) axis and press

[ENT].

DIAG

Note: Enter a

10. At the Y Range prompt, press

Y AXIS MAX value that is larger than the largest expected measurement value.

[F1] to show only the positive Y axis or press [F2] to display both the positive and

negative y axis.

11. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Time Increment (the frequency at which measurements are

taken). The available options are: 5sec, 10sec, 30sec, 1min, 3min, 6min and 12min.

After the time increment is chosen, the Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and continues to take
measurements. The live data is printed at the specified time intervals, until a
instructions for the

72 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

STOP submenu). A portion of a typical printout is shown in Figure 4 below.

Figure 4: Typical Graphical Printout

STOP command is issued (see the

Chapter 4. Printing Data

LOG TITLE:
START:
END:
INTERVAL:

HH:MM:SS
11:50:45
11:50:55
11:51:05
11:51:15
11:51:25
11:51:35
11:51:45

ACF/HR

686.85

670.70

675.99

669.79

675.59

662.28

666.71

ID#1 VOLUM

ACF

230.45

228.58

226.71

224.84

222.70

220.83

218.92

ID#2 +TOTL

9 SEP 97 11:54:45
10 seconds

FT/S

1039.511

1039.105

1039.137

1039.470

1039.509

1039.003

1039.147

ID#1 SNDSP

9 SEP 97 11:50:43

LOG1

09-09-97
09-09-97
09-09-97

09-09-97
09-09-97
09-09-97
09-09-97

MM:DD:YY

TIMEDATE

4.3 Printing Logs

Use the LOG submenu to print logged measurement data, from a log file in the meter’s memory. The data may be
printed in either numeric or graphical format, with a user specified time increment.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that a printer has been properly set up before proceeding with this section.

To print logged measurement data, refer to Figure 16 on page 100, and complete the following steps:

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press

[F2] = LOG.

3. At the Format prompt, press

4. Use the

Note: At the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a log file to print.

NAME prompt, the option bar shows the names of all completed or active log files currently stored in

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[F1] to print the log in numeric format or press [F2] to print the log in graphical format.

[PRNT] key.

memory. If an active log is selected for printing, only the data already accumulated at the time of the print
command will be printed.

5. Enter the number of the First Page of the log to print and press

[ENT]. (This prompt does not appear if the log file is

only one page long.)

6. Enter the total number of log pages to print and press

[ENT]. (This prompt does not appear if the log file is only one

page long.)

• If you chose [F1] (Numeric) at step 3, see the section below.

• If you chose [F2] (Graphic) at step 3, go to the next page.

4.3.1 Numeric Format

After the numeric format (and starting page and number of pages, if applicable) is chosen, the Model GS868 returns to
the standard data display screen and begins printing the log file. The printout continues until the entire log has been
printed or until a
shown in Figure 5 below.

STOP command is issued (see the instructions for the STOP submenu). A portion of a typical printout is

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 73

Figure 5: Typical Numeric Printout

Chapter 4. Printing Data

0.0

.1

.2

.3

.4

.5

.6

.7

.8

.9

1.0

0.0

.1

.2

.4

.3

.5

.7

.6

.8

.9

1.0

SITE NAME

SITE MESSAGE

X-AXIS 50 seconds PER-DIV

Y-AXIS MAX 500 ACF/M

START TIME
03:27:01 PM
20 OCT 97

END TIME

03:28:46 PM

20 OCT 97

4.3.2 Graphical Format

After the graphical format (and starting page and number of pages, if applicable) is chosen, complete the following
additional steps:

7. Enter the desired maximum value for the Y (vertical) axis and press

Note: Enter a

8. At the Y Range prompt, press

Y AXIS MAX value that is larger than the largest logged measurement value.

[F1] to show only the positive Y axis or press [F2] to display both the positive and

[ENT].

negative y axis.

The Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and begins printing the log file. The printout continues
until the entire log has been printed or until a

STOP command is issued (see the instructions for the STOP submenu). A

portion of a typical printout is shown in Figure 6 below.

Figure 6: Typical Graphical Printout

74 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 4. Printing Data

Supercompress?
Volumetric Units
Volumetric Time
VOL Decimal Digits

Pipe OD
Pipe Wall
Path Length
Axial Dimension L

PIPE PARAMETERS:

Transducer number

TOT Decimal Digits

Totalizer Units

SYSTEM PARAMETERS:

Totalizer Option
Equation

System Units

site LABEL site MESSAGE

ACTIVE PARAMETERS:

Site status
Skan/measure mode

Burst
Skan Only

ENGLISH
Automatic
Standard Equation
No
Thousands ACF
/min
0
Actual cubic ft
0

81
1

2.000 inches

0.200 inches

16.97 inches

12.00 inches

At 9:54:39 AM on 11 FEB 99

With 1K FIFO and 1113 receiver board.

Model GX868G3G

PROGRAM PARAMETERS of SITE NAME

4.4 Printing a Site File

Use the PROG submenu to print the data in a site file that was set up and saved as described in Chapter 1, Programming
Site Data. To print a site file, refer to Figure 16 on page 100 and complete the following steps:

IMPORTANT: Make sure that a printer has been properly set up before proceeding with this section.

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press

3. Use the

[F3] = PROG.

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Site File to print.

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[PRNT] key.

Note: All site files currently in memory appear on the option bar. The active site file is always listed as the first choice

(Work).

The Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and generates a site file printout similar to the one shown
in Figure 7 below. The printout continues until the entire file has been printed or until a
the instructions for the

STOP submenu on the next page.

STOP command is issued (see

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 75

Figure 7: Typical Site File Printout

Chapter 4. Printing Data

4.5 Stopping Printing

Use the STOP submenu to terminate the printing of live, logged or site data. To stop any active printing activity, see
Figure 16 on page 100, and complete the following steps:

IMPORTANT: Make sure that a printer has been properly set up before proceeding with this section.

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press

3. Press

Note: After the

[F4] = STOP.

[F1] to continue printing or press [F2] to Stop the currently active printing job.

STOP command has been issued, the printer will complete the printing of any data already in the

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[PRNT] key.

printer buffer. Either wait for the printer to finish or turn the printer off to empty the buffer immediately.

The Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and normal measurement taking.

4.6 Setting Up a Printer

Use the PRNTR submenu to specify the type of printer connected to the Model GS868. To set up a printer, refer to
Figure 16 on page 100, and complete the following steps:

IMPORTANT: A printer must be properly set up before proceeding to any of the other sections in this chapter

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press the

] or ] key to display the option bar shown, and then press [F1] to select the PRNTR submenu.

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[PRNT] key.

3. Use the

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select the desired Printer Type. See Table 24 below for a complete list of the

available options.

Note: For compatibility with the Model GS868, the printer must have an RS232 serial interface. To use a printer with

a parallel interface, a serial-to-parallel adapter must be used.

Table 24: Available Printer Options

Key(s) Printer Type Description

[F1]

[F2]

[F3]

[F4]

] +[F1]

DP411 Seiko Model DPU-411 Type II

XTECH Extech Mini Serial Printer 42

EPSON Epson or Epson-compatible

KODAK Kodak Diconix 150 Plus

SP401 Syntest SP-401

After the desired printer type has been selected, the meter returns to the standard data display screen and normal
measurement taking.

76 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 4. Printing Data

CH1
0
1
2
3
4
5
.
.
.
510
511
512
.

893
.

2

.

867
880

.
.

2
2

2
2

SKAN
2

942
.

0

.

965
950

.

.

0
0

0

0

SIGNAL
0

4.6.1 Printing Signal Array Data

Use the SGNLS submenu to print signal array data, to help diagnose certain problems. To print signal data, see Figure 16
on page 100, and complete the following steps:

IMPORTANT: Make sure that a printer has been properly set up before proceeding with this section.

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press the

3. Press the

Note: The

After the desired print selection has been made, the Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and
normal measurement taking. The specified signal array data is printed continuously, until it is manually stopped. To
terminate signal array printing, use the
printout is shown in Figure 8 below.

] or ] key to display the option bar shown, and then press [F2] to select the SGNLS submenu.

[F1]-[F3] keys to select the desired Signal Array data to print. To abort the procedure, press the [EXIT] key.

SIGNL option causes the raw signal array data to print, while the CROSS option causes the cross-

correlation data to print. The

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

[PRNT] key.

BOTH option prints both sets of data.

STOP submenu, as described earlier in this chapter. A portion of a typical

The data printed via the

• Index - this is the printout line number, which locates the data point within the complete body of data.

• Upstream - this is the amplitude of the signal from the upstream transducer at the listed index number.

• Downstream - this is the amplitude of the signal from the downstream transducer at the listed index number.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 77

SIGNL submenu consists of 1024 lines, each of which lists the following three values:

Figure 8: Typical Signal Array Printout

Chapter 4. Printing Data

4.6 Printing Signal Array Data (cont.)

Note: The printouts generated from the CROSS and BOTH submenus will appear after the SIGNL printout, as separate

listings.

The data printed in this array permits a comparison of the relative signal strengths of the upstream and downstream
transducers, which are used to calculate a single flow measurement.

4.7 Printing RTD Data

Use the RTDs submenu to send the numeric point value of a connected RTD device to the RS232 port for display on a
terminal or RS232 printer. By viewing the point value of the meter at a given temperature, you can calculate the points
at the Set Temperature, and the slope of the RTD input in points/degree. (See Chapter 1, Calibration, of the Service
Manual for more details.)

1. To access the Print Menu, press the

Note: The Print Menu is not

2. Press the

] or ] key to display the option bar shown, and then press [F3] to select the RTDs submenu.

protected by the security feature and a password is never required to access this menu.

3. At the Dump RTD Data prompt, press

[PRNT] key.

[F1] to leave the PRINT menu without dumping data, or [F2] to send the RTD

data to the RS232 port.

After the selection has been made, the Model GS868 returns to the standard data display screen and normal
measurement taking. If you have selected
you reenter the

PRINT menu and select the STOP option.

YES at the Dump RTD Data prompt, the meter continues to send data until

78 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

5.1 Introduction

This chapter explains how to purge the Model GS868’s memory of various measurement totals and/or files. The Clear
Menu, which is accessed by pressing the

• TOTAL - used to reset totalized measurement values

• SITE - used to remove site parameter files from memory

• LOG - used to clear log files from memory.

Note: For detailed information on creating a log file, see Chapter 3, Logging Data. For detailed information on

creating a site file and for setting up the stopwatch totalizer, see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data.

For purposes of this discussion it is assumed that the left pane of the data display screen is active. If the right pane of
the data display screen is active, all of the instructions remain the same, except that any references to the
should be replaced by the

[F5]-[F8] keys.

[CLR] key on the keypad, is divided into three submenus:

[F1]-[F4] keys

IMPORTANT: None of the clearing procedures available via the Clear Menu can be undone. Be very sure that the exact

consequences of a selected option are thoroughly understood before proceeding.

Refer to Figure 17 on page 101 in Appendix A, Menu Maps, and proceed to the desired section for detailed
instructions. Each submenu may be followed in the sequence shown or the
through the prompts.

] and ] keys may be used to scroll

5.1.1 Resetting Totals

The TOTAL submenu permits the user to reset volumetric totals to zero and to reset the stopwatch totalizer. Press the
appropriate side of the
steps:

1. To access the Clear Menu, press the

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

3. Press

Procedure Options

[F1] = TOTAL.

[F1] to abort the procedure or press [F2] to clear all volumetric totals and reset the stopwatch totalizer. In either

case, the initial Clear Menu prompt returns.

[SCREEN] key to activate the desired pane of the display screen, and complete the following

[CLR] key.

[ENT].

Do one of the following:

• Press [F1]-[F3] to enter one of the CLR submenus.

• Press the [EXIT] key to return to the data measurement display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 79

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

5.2 Deleting Site Files

Use the SITE submenu to clear site files from the GS868’s memory. Use the [SCREEN] key to activate the desired display
pane, and complete the following steps:

1. To access the Clear Menu, press the

[CLR] key.

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

[F2] = SITE.

3. At the Site Name prompt, use the
submenu, press the

Note: At the

4. Press

[F1] to abort the procedure or press [F2] to Clear the specified site file. If any site files remain in memory, the

Site Name prompt, the option bar shows the names of all site files currently stored in memory.

[EXIT] key.

[ENT].

], ] and [F1]-[F4] keys to select a site file for deletion. To leave the SITE

Site Name prompt repeats.

When all of the stored site files have been cleared or the

[EXIT] key has been pressed at the SITE NAME prompt, the

programming sequence resumes at this point.

Procedure Options

Do one of the following:

• Press [F1]-[F3] to enter one of the CLR submenus.

• Press the [EXIT] key to return to the data measurement display.

80 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

5.3 Deleting Log Files

Use the LOG submenu to clear log files from the Model GS868’s memory. Press the appropriate side of the [SCREEN] key
to activate the desired pane of the data display screen, and complete the following steps:

1. To access the Clear Menu, press the

[CLR] key.

a. If you have activated the security feature (see Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, page 41 for details), enter the

assigned password and press

2. Press

[F3] = LOG.

3. At the Name prompt, the option bar shows the names of all log files currently stored in memory. Use the

and

[F1]-[F4] keys to select a log file for deletion. To leave the LOG submenu, press the [EXIT] key.

4. Press

[F1] to abort the procedure or press [F2] to Clear the specified log file. If any log files remain in memory, the

[ENT].

], ]

Name prompt repeats

When all of the stored log files have been cleared or the

[EXIT] key has been pressed at the Name prompt, the

programming sequence resumes at this point.

Procedure Options

Do one of the following:

• Press [F1]-[F3] to enter one of the CLR submenus.

• Press the [EXIT] key to return to the data measurement display.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 81

Chapter 5. Clearing Data

[no content intended for this page]

82 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.1 Introduction

The Model GS868 flowmeter is equipped with a standard RS232 serial interface. By using this interface, any log files
stored in the GS868’s memory may be easily uploaded to a personal computer. In order to accomplish this, the
following steps must be completed:

• Connect the GS868 to the personal computer

• Check the GS868 baud rate setting

• Set up the personal computer’s terminal software

• Transfer the log files to the personal computer.

6.2 Wiring the RS232 Interface

The first step is to connect the built-in RS232 port in the GS868 to one of the serial ports (COM1 or COM2) on the
personal computer. Table 25 below lists the standard cables available from the factory for this purpose.

Table 25: GE Serial Cables

Part Number PC Connector GS868 Connector

704-659 DB25 Male Flying Leads (5)

704-660 DB9 Male Flying Leads (5)

704-661 DB25 Female Flying Leads (5)

704-662 DB9 Female Flying Leads (5)

Each of the cables listed in Table 25 above is available in several standard lengths. However, a user-supplied cable may
be used, if preferred. In either case, wire the GS868 end of the serial cable in accordance with the pin designations
listed in Table 26 below.

Table 26: RS232 Pin Connections

GS868

Pin #

1 (RTN) Green 7 5

2 (TX) Black 3 2

3 (RX) Red 2 3

4 (DTR) White 20 4

5 (CTS) Yellow 5 8

GE

Cable Color

DB25 Cable

Pin #

DB9 Cable Pin

#

Note: For basic serial communications between a single GS868 and a single personal computer, no connections are

required to pins 4 and 5 of the GS868’s serial connector. However, these pins should be jumpered together to
ensure proper operation.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 83

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.3 Checking the GS868 Baud Rate

For successful serial communications, the GS868 and the personal computer must be set up to send/receive data at the
same speed. To verify/change the baud rate setting of the GS868, proceed as follows:

Access the User Program, by pressing the

[PROG] key on the keypad. The standard measurement mode screen is

replaced by the following initial programming mode screen:

PROGRAM Start

PROGRAM

previous selection appears here

CH1 CH2 GLOBL SAVE

PROGRAM Start

Global PROGRAM

previous selection appears here

CLOCK SYSTM I/O COMM

Press the [F3] key to select the GLOBL menu.

Press the [F4] key to select the COMM submenu.

Global COMM PROGRAM

Global PROGRAM

Comm port

BAUD RATE

current setting appears here

4800 9600 19200

To change the baud rate, press the ] key until the desired baud rate
appears on the option bar, and then press the appropriate

[Fx] function

key.

The available rates are 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 and 19200 baud. After verifying or changing the baud rate
setting, press the

Note: Refer to Chapter 1, Programming Site Data, for a detailed description of using the

[EXIT] key three times to return to standard measurement mode.

COMM submenu.

84 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.4 Setting Up the Terminal Software

Specific instructions are given in this manual for communicating with personal computers running under either the
Windows 3.X or Windows 9X/NT operating systems. Proceed to the appropriate section for detailed set up procedures.

Note: For computers operating under other operating systems, contact the factory for assistance or consult the

operating system manual supplied with the computer.

6.4.1 Windows 3.X Systems

To set up serial communications with a personal computer running under Windows 3.X, make sure the GS868 is
powered on and complete the following steps:

1. In Windows 3.X, select the Terminal Function, which is usually located in the Accessories window.

2. The Terminal Screen appears, with six menus located at the top of the screen. Using the Settings Menu, select the

Communications option.

3. When the Communications Screen appears, make the following selections:

• Baud Rate - set to the same value as the GS868 setting

• Data Bits - 8

• Stop Bits - 1

• Parity - None

• Flow Control - Xon/Xoff

• Connector - select the correct communications port

• Parity Check - not checked

• Carrier Detect - not checked

4. Using the Transfer Menu, select the Receive Text File option.

5. A window appears asking for a file name. Select the desired directory and file name (with .prt extension) and then

click on OK.

6. From the keypad on the GS868, enter the

numeric format. See Chapter 4, Printing Data, for detailed instructions on this procedure.

7. The logged data will begin appearing on the computer screen. After the transfer has been completed, the uploaded

file may be used in any software program, just like any other text file.

Note: If the RS232 link does not function, switching the leads to pins 2 (TX) and 3 (RX) at the RS232 connector on the

meter often solves the problem.

PRINT menu and select the log file to be uploaded to the computer in

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 85

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.4.2 Windows 9X/NT Systems

Windows 9X/NT systems use a program called Hyperterminal to access the serial ports. To set up serial
communications with a personal computer running under Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows NT, make sure the
GS868 is powered on and complete the following steps:

1. From the Windows

2. The

3. When the

4. When the

NEW CONNECTION window should appear (if it does not, select it from the FILE menu). After entering the

desired

GS868 is connected and click on

CONNECTION NAME and selecting an ICON, click on OK.

CONNECT TO window appears, select the serial communications port (COM1 or COM2) to which the

COMx PROPERTIES window appears, make sure the settings are as follows:

START menu, select PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>HYPERTERMINAL>HYPERTERMINAL.

OK.

• Bits per Second: 9600 (must match the GS868 setting)

• Data Bits: 8

• Parity: None

• Stop Bits: 1

• Flow Control: Xon/Xoff

After making any necessary changes, click on

5. Open the
to be transmitted, and click on

6. From the keypad on the GS868, enter the
numeric format. See Chapter 4, Printing Data, for detailed instructions on this procedure.

TRANSFER menu and select CAPTURE TEXT. Enter the desired DRIVE:\DIRECTORY\FILENAME for the file about

OK.

OK.

PRINT menu and select the log file to be uploaded to the computer in

7. The logged data will begin appearing on the computer screen. When the transfer has been completed, open the

TRANSFER menu and select CAPTURE TEXT>STOP. The uploaded file may now be used in any software program, just

like any other text file.

Note: If the RS232 link does not function, switching the leads to pins 2 (TX) and 3 (RX) at the RS232 connector on the

meter often solves the problem.

86 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

RS 232

TTTRT
SNR

XX

CD R

DN

CHAN 1

G

I

S

GNN

SIRTR

T

UP

D
C
R
S

- XMT +

Red (XMT+)

RS232 Terminal Block

Standoff

Mounting Bracket

Barrier Strip

LVD Shroud

Green (XMT–)

Grounding
Screw

G N/L2 L1 AC

G – + DC

6.5 Optional RS485 Serial Interface

Although the standard RS232 serial interface included with the Model GS868 is adequate for most applications, GE
offers an optional RS485 serial interface upgrade for special situations. The Model GS868 is easily modified to provide
RS485 communications, and this section describes the wiring and use of the special RS232 to RS485 converter.

IMPORTANT: This section refers to the PC communications port (labelled “RS232” on the main board). If you have a

MODBUS card installed, the terminal block on that card will always be RS485. The MODBUS card only
sends MODBUS data and cannot be used to set up the GS868. IDM communication always passes via the
RS232 port described here.

Note: For compliance with the European Union’s Low Voltage Directive, this unit requires an external power

disconnect device such as a switch or circuit breaker. The disconnect device must be marked as such, clearly
visible, directly accessible, and located within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the electronics console.

6.5.1 Interface Converter Mounting

A special bracket containing the serial interface converter and a three-terminal barrier strip is mounted inside the
Model GS868, just below the RS232 terminal block (see Figure 9 below). The standard
to the input of the serial interface converter, and the RS485 output of the serial interface converter is wired to the
barrier strip.

RS232 terminal block is wired

Figure 9: Interface Converter Mounting

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 87

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.5.2 Point-To-Point Wiring

Standard factory wiring of the RS485 serial interface is configured for point-to-point wiring. That is, a single Model
GS868 may be wired directly to a single personal computer. To connect the RS485 serial interface, refer to Figure 9 on
page 87 and complete the following steps:

Note: For compliance with the European Union’s Low Voltage Directive, a transparent plastic shroud protects the

electrical connections. The shroud must remain in place, except while wiring the unit. Reinstall the shroud
after the wiring has been completed.

1. Disconnect the main power to the electronics console and open the cover.

WARNING!

Dangerous voltages exist within the electronics console. Do not perform any

wiring operations until the main power to the unit has been disconnected.

2. Remove the clear plastic shroud that covers the electrical connectors.

3. Using a twisted-wire pair, connect the XMT+ terminal of the barrier strip to the XMT+ terminal of the personal

computer and connect the XMT– terminal of the barrier strip to the XMT– terminal of the personal computer.

Note: The XMT+ terminal on the barrier strip is the screw opposite the red wire connection and the XMT– terminal

on the barrier strip is the screw opposite the green wire connection.

4. Reinstall the clear plastic shroud, close the cover to the electronics console and reconnect the main power.

The RS485 serial interface is now ready for point-to-point operation.

88 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

6.5.3 Multi-Point Wiring

The standard point-to-point wiring configuration for the serial interface converter may be modified to permit the use of
a multi-point wiring arrangement. In a multi-point RS485 system, one flowmeter (the master) is connected to the
personal computer, while a number of additional flowmeters (the slaves) are chained together and connected to the
master flowmeter. In order to implement such a system, the

DIP switch settings inside each serial interface converter

must be changed.

IMPORTANT: The serial interface converter in the last slave unit in the chain should not be reconfigured.

6.5.3a Reconfiguring a Serial Interface Converter

To reconfigure a serial interface converter for multi-point wiring, complete the following steps:

1. Disconnect the main power to the electronics console and open the cover.

WARNING!

Dangerous voltages exist within the electronics console. Do not perform any

wiring operations until the main power to the unit has been disconnected.

2. Remove the clear plastic shroud that covers the electrical connectors.

3. Remove the serial interface converter mounting bracket by removing the standoff located just below the

RS232

terminal block and the grounding screw to its left (see Figure 9 on page 87).

4. Loosen the two screws that fasten the

DB9 connector to the mounting bracket, and remove the serial interface

converter from the bracket.

5. Use a small screwdriver to pry open the plastic case of the serial interface converter, as shown in Figure 10 on

page 90.

The serial interface converter contains a main printed circuit board and a daughter printed circuit board. The daughter
board has a small terminal block attached to it and the main board has a

DIP switch (SW1) mounted near the center of

the board.

6. Locate the switch assembly on the main board, and move the switch in position 1 from ON to OFF. The standard

ON state for this switch is for point-to-point operation, while the OFF state is needed for multi-point operation. See
Table 27 on page 90 for the proper settings of all four switches on the switch assembly.

DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel) 89

Chapter 6. Serial Communications

Plastic Case

Mounting Screw

DB9 Connector

Screwdriver

6.5.3a Reconfiguring a Serial Interface Converter (cont.)

Figure 10: Opening the Converter Case

Table 27: Switch Assembly Settings

Position # Point-To-Point Multi-Point

1ONOFF

2ONON

3ONON

4OFFOFF

7. Reassemble the serial interface converter and secure it to the mounting bracket with the two mounting screws.

8. Reinstall the mounting bracket into the electronics enclosure and secure it with the standoff and the grounding

screw.

6.5.3b Wiring the System

After the serial interface converters have been configured for multi-point operation, the system can be wired.

1. Using twisted-wire pairs, connect the XMT+ terminals of all the flowmeters together and connect the XMT–
terminals of all the flowmeters together.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that the flowmeter with the non-modified converter is wired as the last unit in the chain.

2. Using a twisted-wire pair, connect the XMT+ terminal of the barrier strip to the T+/R+ terminal of the PC’s RS485
adapter and connect the XMT– terminal of the barrier strip to the T-/R- terminal of the PC’s RS485 adapter (see the
documentation provided with the RS485 adapter for details).

Note: The XMT+ terminal on the barrier strip is the screw opposite the red wire connection and the XMT– terminal

on the barrier strip is the screw opposite the green wire connection.

3. Reinstall the clear plastic shroud, close the cover to the electronics console and reconnect the main power.

The RS485 serial interface is now ready for multi-point operation.

90 DigitalFlow™ GS868 Programming Manual (2-Channel)