Juniper Allegro CX User Manual
American Innovations Allegro CX
Version 4.3.2
User Guide
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 1999-2011 American Innovations, Ltd. All rights reserved.
American Innovations | www.aiworldwide.com | 12211 Technology Blvd | Austin, TX 78727
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of American Innovations is strictly
forbidden.
The American Innovations logo and icon are trademarks of American Innovations, Ltd. Juniper Systems,
Allegro Field PC, and the company logo are registered trademarks of Juniper Systems, Inc. Allegro MX and
Allegro CX are recognized trademarks of Juniper Systems, Inc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Windows Mobile and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of
companies.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming
the marks and names or their products. American Innovations, Ltd. disclaims any proprietary interest in
trademarks and trade names other than its own.
July 19, 2011 Part No. 122141-000, Rev. 3
Contents
Chapter 1
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Equipment List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Preparing the Allegro for Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Overview of the Allegro Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Overview of AI’s Allegro Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Touchscreen Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Keypad and Shortcut Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
System Tray Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Contacting Technical Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Chapter 2
Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Install the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Set Regional Settings, Time Zone, and Date/Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Install Windows Mobile Device Center or ActiveSync . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Transfer Utility Files to PCS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Connector Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Recalibrate the Touchscreen Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Connect test leads to the Allegro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Set test function, voltage range, and sample rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Set properties to measure on/off potentials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set properties to measure current across an external shunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set data logger properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
DVM Graph Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Data Logger Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Shortcut Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
iii
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Chapter 3
Close Interval Survey (CeCi) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Set Survey File Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Add Remarks and Test Point Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Export a Survey File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Transfer a Survey File to PCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Survey File Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Shortcut Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Connect test leads to the Allegro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Set survey properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Set survey type and mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Set on/off survey type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Set GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Save survey file. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Record inspection readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Set audio and double-click properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Set autosave and skip mode properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Set GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Set color properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Set graph properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Add a remark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Add test point information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Chapter 4
DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Survey File Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Add Remarks, Indication, and Test Point Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Connect data canes to the Allegro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Set survey properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Set survey mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Set on/off survey type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Set DCVG properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Set GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Save survey file. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Record inspection readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Set optional audio and double-click properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Set optional autosave properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Set optional GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Set optional color properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Add a remark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Add indication information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Add test point information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
iv Contents
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Export a Survey File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Survey File Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Shortcut Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Chapter 5
Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Connect test leads to the Allegro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Set on/off survey method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Set GPS properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Add or delete a new site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Change font properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Save survey route. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Record inspection readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Timed Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Set Autosave Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Transfer a Survey Route to PCS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Copy a Survey Route to a Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Survey Route Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Shortcut Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Appendix A
Recommendations for Interrupted On/Off Settings . . . . . . . . . . .75
Appendix B
FAQs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Appendix C
Utility Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
GPS Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
GPS Status Shortcut Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
GPS Config . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
GPS Pod Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Save System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
Set DAQ Registry Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
Appendix D
GPS Receivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Set Up a Holux GPS Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
Install GPS Controller Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Set Up GPS Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Contents v
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Export Control Classification Number . . . . . . . . . . .107
Software License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Keyboard Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
vi Contents
Getting Star ted
This guide explains how to set up and use American Innovations’ software installed on the
Allegro CX Field PC
Topics in this chapter include those in the following list:
• Equipment List (page 1)
• Preparing the Allegro for Use (page 2)
• Overview of AI’s Allegro Software (page 13)
• Overview of the Allegro Hardware (page 10)
• System Tray Icons (page 18)
• Contacting Technical Services (page 20)
®
.
1
Equipment List
Your Allegro ships from American Innovations (AI) with the following items. Several
optional add-ons are available for purchase, such as GPS (global positioning system). For a
complete list contact AI Sales at 1-800-229-3404.
Items provided in the box with the Allegro include:
• Rechargeable Battery Pack and AC Charger
• Serial Communication cable (female/female 9-pin, null modem cable)
• Mini Stylus and Pen-Style Stylus
1
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
• Hand Strap and Shoulder Strap
• Screen Protector
• AI Allegro CD with copies of AI software, user guide, release notes, and upgrade
procedures
• Microsoft
• Juniper Systems CD with owner’s manual and quick start guide
Getting Started
CD with Windows Mobile Device Center and ActiveSync
Preparing the Allegro for Use
When you first receive the Allegro from AI, perform the following tasks to prepare the
device for service:
• Install the Battery Pack (see page 2)
• Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display (see page 4)
• Set Regional Settings, Time Zone, and Date/Time (see page 5)
• Install Windows Mobile Device Center or ActiveSync (see page 6)
• Transfer Utility Files to PCS (see page 9)
Install the Battery Pack
Complete the following steps to install and charge the battery pack. Charge the battery
pack for at least six hours.
1
Push the sliding latches up on the sides of the Allegro to open the battery
compartment door (Figure 1-1).
Figure 1-1. Slide Latches
2Getting Started
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
2
Place the battery pack in the battery compartment with the small arrow pointing to
the right (Figure 1-2). Push the battery pack down and then slide it to the right to
secure it in place.
Figure 1-2. Install Battery Pack
3
Push the battery door closed until slide latches click into place. If slide latches are
not securely in place, the unit is no longer water tight.
4
Plug the battery charger into a wall outlet, then the Allegro (Figure 1-3). The
Battery Parameters
window (Figure 1-4) automatically displays after applying
power.
Set
Figure 1-3. Connect Battery Charger
Get ti n g S t ar te d 3
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
5
Complete the following settings in the
(Figure 1-4):
Set Battery Parameters
window
• Set charge percentage to
(%)
.
• Set
Figure 1-4. Set Battery Parameters
Battery Capacity
to
10%
in the field
4000
and then tap Accept to close the window.
Enter new Battery Charge Level
Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display
If the Allegro includes a monochrome display, complete the following steps to set display
properties:
1
Ta p
Start
>
Settings
>
Control Panel
>
Display
icon.
Figure 1-5. Display Properties
2
Tap t he
field and
3
Ta p OK and then the Close icon (X) to return to the Allegro desktop.
4Getting Started
Appearance
Desktop
in the
tab (Figure 1-5). Select
Item
field.
High Contrast White
in the
Scheme
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Set Regional Settings, Time Zone, and Date/Time
Regional settings specify the style that date/time, numbers, and currency are displayed.
After selecting a display style, set up the Allegro with your preferred time zone, date, and
time.
Complete the following steps:
1
Ta p
Start
>
Settings
Regional Settings Properties
2
Set your preferred language
style for
Panel
Number, Currency, Time
window.
>
Control Panel
window (Figure 1-6).
Your Loc a le
>
Regional Settings
. Use the remaining tabs to set the display
, and
Date
. Click OK to return to the
to display the
Control
Figure 1-6. Regional Settings
3
Tap t he
Date/Time
icon in the
settings:
• Set up the
current date, time
Savings Time applies to your preferred time zone, tap
in effect
• Tap
to enable this option.
OK
to apply settings and close the window. Tap the Close icon (X) to
return to the Allegro desktop.
Control Panel
window and complete the following
, and your preferred
time zone
Daylight savings time
. If Daylight
Figure 1-7. Time Zone and Date/Time
Get ti n g S t ar te d 5
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Install Windows Mobile Device Center or ActiveSync
The Allegro communicates with a computer using either Windows Mobile Device Center
(for Windows 7 and Vista) or Microsoft ActiveSync (for Windows XP or 2000).
If your computer is not installed with Windows Mobile Device Center (WMDC) or
ActiveSync, complete the following steps to install the software. View your computer’s
Start Menu
Windows 7/Vista: Install Windows Mobile Device Center
If your computer is running Windows 7 or Windows Vista, complete the following steps:
1
2
to determine if the software is installed (
Insert the
with the Allegro. If you cannot locate the CD, please contact Technical Services at
pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com.
Plug the provided serial cable in the Allegro and your computer.
Getting Started
CD in the CD drive of your computer. The CD is included
Start
>
Program Files
or
Programs)
.
3
Download the
clicking the download link that appears in the pop-up window.
4
Select
Run this program from its current location
screen prompts to install the software.
5
Create a connection at anytime by connecting one end of the serial cable in
your computer and the other end in the Allegro. WMDC automatically opens
(Figure 1-8). Click
connection.
Windows Mobile Device Center Installer
and click OK. Follow on-
Connect without setting up your device
to your computer by
to create a
Figure 1-8. Windows Mobile Device Center
6Getting Started
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Windows XP/2000: Install ActiveSync
If your computer is running Windows XP or Windows 2000, complete the following steps:
1
Insert the
with the Allegro. If you cannot locate the CD, please contact Technical Services at
pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com.
2
Follow on-screen prompts to install ActiveSync.
3
To establish a sync connection with the Allegro and your computer, follow these
steps:
a
b
Getting Started
CD in the CD drive of your computer. The CD is included
Connect the serial cable to your computer and the Allegro.
When
Synchronization Setup Wizard
to create a sync partnership. Clicking
displays, click
Cancel
allows you to create a
Cancel
connection instead (Figure 1-9).
when prompted
Guest
Figure 1-9. Synchronization Setup Wizard
A successful sync connection occurs when the following ActiveSync window
displays (Figure 1-10).
Get ti n g S t ar te d 7
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Figure 1-10. ActiveSync Connected
NOTE: If a successful sync connection
does not
occur and you also use a VPN (virtual
private network) software to establish a remote connection with a private network: (1)
Disable or disconnect the VPN software. (2) Recycle power to the Allegro and your
computer. (3) Click
Cancel
when
Synchronization Setup Wizard
displays. If a sync
connection has not been established, contact Technical Services at
pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com.
8Getting Started
Transfer Utility Files to PCS
If you use Pipeline Compliance System (PCS) with the Allegro, complete the following
steps to transfer two utility files from the Allegro installation CD to the PCS CPDM
installation directory on your computer. The utility files are labeled
CeFileXer.exe
IMPORTANT: PCS typically installs in the CPDM installation folder on C: drive of your
computer (C:\CPDM). If you installed PCS in a different folder, locate the folder by
searching for either of the utility files. Click the Windows
wToCmd.exe
installation folder.
Complete the following steps:
1
on the Allegro installation CD.
or
CeFileXer.exe
Insert the Allegro installation CD in your computer’s CD drive.
in the
Search
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
wToCmd.exe
Start
button and then type
field to locate the utility files and PCS CPDM
and
2
Open Windows Explorer and view the contents of the CD folder labeled
on the installation CD.
3
Drag the files
CPDM installation folder on your computer (Figure 1-11).
4
Click
Yes
the
Move File
wToCmd.exe
or
Move and Replace
message.
and
CeFileXer.exe
to update existing files when Windows displays
from the installation CD to the PCS
PCS Files
Figure 1-11. PCS CPDM Installation Folder
Get ti n g S t ar te d 9
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
GPS Antenna
(optional add-on)
Function Keys
Blue Shift Key
Keyboard
Keyboard
Gold Shift Key
Circular Navigation Key
Touchscreen Display
Overview of the Allegro Hardware
The Allegro includes a connector panel, touchscreen display, keypad, and function keys
(Figure 1-12). Optional add-ons available for purchase include a GPS expansion pod with
GPS antenna and a Trimble GPS receiver. For a complete list of add-ons available for
purchase, contact AI Sales at 1-800-229-3404.
Figure 1-12. Allegro Field PC
10 Getting Started
Connector Panel
GPS Antenna
(optional add-on)
COM 2
Infrared Port
DVM Negative (–)
Black
DVM Positive (+)
Red
COM 1
AC or Vehicle
Power Jack
GPS Antenna Connector
Remote Trigger Connector
(3-pin connector)
Mini Stylus
The connector panel is located at the top of the Allegro (Figure 1-13). It supports
connections for items in the list below.
Figure 1-13. Allegro Connector Panel
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
The connector panel supports the following connections:
• DVM positive and negative test leads.
• Remote trigger for data cane or wire counter (3-pin connector).
• Communication ports with the following characteristics:
• Infrared port for wireless communication with a printer or computer using
ActiveSync.
• USB port for connecting to an optional USB power dock.
• Two 9-pin serial communication ports labeled COM1 and COM2
• AC or optional vehicle power adapter
• GPS expansion pod (optional add-on)
• GPS antenna (optional add-on)
Get ti n g S t ar te d 11
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Chainer
Stick
Adapter
Switch
(top view)
Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch
A hardware switch inside the Allegro must be set before taking survey readings. Use the
procedure below to set the switch in
readings. If using a wire counter instead, set the switch in
Chainer
mode if using a data cane to take survey
Stick Adapter
mode.
To set the Allegro in either
1
If the Allegro is on, press the power button to turn
2
If a GPS antenna cable is connected to the Allegro, disconnect the cable.
3
Use a coin or flathead screwdriver to loosen two screws securing the card slot door
on the back of the Allegro. Turn screws counter-clockwise
the door.
Figure 1-14. Open Card Slot Door
Chainer
or
Stick Adapter
mode, follow these steps:
Off
the device.
¼ of a turn to release
4
Open the card slot door and set the switch in one of the following positions
(Figure 1-15). When you finish, close and fasten the door.
•
Chainer:
•
Stick Adapter:
Figure 1-15. Set Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch Position
if using a wire counter, select
if using a data cane, select
Chainer
.
Stick Adapter
.
12 Getting Started
Overview of AI’s Allegro Software
The Allegro ships from AI with the following AI Allegro software factory-installed. AI
Allegro software version 4.3.1 is compatible with all version 6 and 7 PCS software.
Digital Voltmeter (AiDvm) Close Interval (CeCi)
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Measures voltage, current,
and resistance levels.
DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) Periodic Survey
Records indications of pipeline
coating defects.
Figure 1-16. AI Allegro Software Overview
Records potential readings
for close interval (CI) surveys.
Records voltage readings for
annual and periodic surveys.
Get ti n g S t ar te d 13
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Touchscreen Display
Use the provided stylus to tap the touchscreen and activate a software program or make a
selection. Several system icons are available for selection that allow you to navigate.
IMPORTANT: Avoid using sharp objects that may scratch or puncture the touchscreen
display.
The Allegro includes a high-contrast, pressure-sensitive display with an adjustable
backlight and heater for cold weather operation. When working in harsh conditions, such
as a rainstorm or in high brush, pressing the
touchscreen on or off.
A display heater is included with the Allegro monochrome display to ensure effective
operation throughout different temperature ranges. The heater automatically turns on at
20 °F and turns off when the temperature is above 20 °F. Allegro color units do not require
a heater because the unit operates effectively in all temperatures. The monochrome
version of the Allegro displays best when the device is set up with the
theme. See
Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display
BLUE
shift and TS buttons toggles the
High Contrast
on page 4 for instructions.
Recalibrate the Touchscreen Display
If the touchscreen does not respond accurately to stylus taps, recalibrate the touchscreen
manually using the following steps:
1
Ta p
Start
>
Settings
2
Ta p
Recalibrate
the touchscreen.
Figure 1-17. Recalibrate Touchscreen
3
When the process completes, tap OK to close the window and then tap the
icon
(X) to return to the Allegro desktop.
>
Control Panel
(Figure 1-17) and then follow on-screen prompts to recalibrate
>
Stylus
>
Calibration
tab.
Close
14 Getting Started
Keypad and Shortcut Keys
F1–F5 Function Keys
Tab Key
Space Bar
Orange Key
Enter Key
Blue Key
Circular Key
The Allegro keypad is similar to a computer keyboard (Figure 1-18). The keypad provides
the following functionality:
• Alphanumeric and symbol keys for data entry.
• Tab, Enter, Spacebar, and Circular keys for moving the cursor.
• F1 through F5 keys perform softkey operations in certain software programs. These
keys perform special functions when used in conjunction with either the Blue or
Gold key.
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Figure 1-18. Allegro Keypad
The table on the next page (Table 1-1) provides a list of global shortcut keys. Use the
Allegro keypad to run any of the identified commands.
Get ti n g S t ar te d 15
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Table 1-1. Global Shortcut Keys
Command Shortcut Keys Description
Toggle Caps <
Display Backlight <
Brighten/Dim Screen
Display
Move between fields <
Close Window <
Enable/Disable
Touchscreen
Blue><CapLk
Gold><F3
<
Gold><F4
<
Gold><F5
> Toggles caps lock on and off
> Toggles backlight on/off.
>
>
Press <Gold><F4> to dim
screen display.
Press <Gold><F5>to brighten
screen display.
TAB
> Moves cursor between fields.
Left tab arrow moves cursor
forward one field; right tab
arrow moves cursor backward
one field.
Esc
> Close an open window.
<
Blue><TS
> Disable or enable the
touchscreen.
Tas k Ma nag e r <
Start
>Displays the Task Manager.
Table 1-2. Button and Button Sequence Functionality
Button or Button Sequence Description
Alt button + tap touchscreen Desktop shortcut menu (similar to right-
mouse click on PC)
Gold key + F5 Display Contrast Darker (monochrome
display only)
Gold key + F4 Display Contrast Lighten (monochrome
display only)
Blue key + TS Enable / Disable touchscreen
16 Getting Started
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Table 1-2. Button and Button Sequence Functionality
Button or Button Sequence Description
Blue key + End End
Gold key + Function key Function keys F11 and F12
Blue key + Function key Function key F6 through F10
Blue key + Home Home
Blue key + PgDn Page Down
Blue key + PgUp Page Up
Gold key + Circular key up,
Pan display in direction of arrow
down, right, or left arrow
Warm Reset/Soft Reboot: Press
Reset Allegro
and hold On/Off key for about 8
seconds. Release the key when
the restart process begins.
Press Tab arrow to move cursor
Tab f or ward o r b ac kw ar d
between fields.
Press Task Manager (Start) key to
Task M an ag er
view all running programs.
Gold key + INS Toggle auto-panning on/off
Blue key + Start View Start Menu
Get ti n g S t ar te d 17
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
System Tray Icons
The system tray appears in the bottom right area of the Allegro desktop. See the next table
for a description of the various icons that display in the system tray.
Table 1-3. System Tray Icons
Icon Description
Remaining Battery Charge Status:
percentage of charge remaining in battery.
External Power Input:
source is connected and not drawing power from
internal battery pack.
Charging Indicator:
rechargeable batteries are being recharged.
Data Storage Idle: o
idle and not being read from or written to.
Data Storage Active:
read from or written to the solid state disk.
PC Card:
PC Card Activity:
accessing PC card. Do not remove card when this icon
is visible in system tray.
indicates a PC card is installed in the Allegro.
indicates external power
appears in system tray when
utlined when solid state disk is
darkens when data is being
indicates software program is
shows
18 Getting Started
Caps Lock On:
option is activated. Press Blue shift and Shift/CapLk
keys to activate option. Press again to deactivate
option.
Touchscreen Disabled:
disabled. Press Blue shift and TS keys to enable or
disable touchscreen.
PC Connection:
connection between the Allegro and desktop or laptop
computer.
appears when the all capital letters
appears when touchscreen is
appears when there is an active
Table 1-3. System Tray Icons (continued)
Icon Description
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Heater
(monochrome screen only): appears when
touchscreen heater turns on.
Bluetooth Connection:
appears when Bluetooth is
being actively used on the Allegro.
Get ti n g S t ar te d 19
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Contacting Technical Services
If you need assistance with the AI software or Allegro, or have a comment or suggestion
about this manual, contact Technical Services in any of the following ways:
Teleph o n e :
E-mail:
Mail:
1-800-229-3404 (select 1, then press 2)
pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com
American Innovations, Ltd.
Attn. Allegro Technical Services
12211 Technology Blvd.
Austin, TX 78727
20 Getting Started
Notes
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
Get ti n g S t ar te d 21
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
22 Getting Started
Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)
Ai-DVM measures voltage, current, resistance, and diode capacitance as a fully functional
digital voltmeter (DVM) and as an integrated DVM to complement the following AI
software: CeCi (close interval), DCVG (direct current voltage gradient), and Periodic Survey
(annual/periodic survey).
You can view measurements either in the main window of AI-DVM or as a waveform graph.
Optional settings are available for measuring current interrupter on/off potentials and
operating in
Information in this chapter explains how to set up and use AI’s digital voltmeter, AI-DVM.
Topics include:
• Safety Precautions (page 23)
• Quick Start (page 24)
• DVM Graph Overview (page 27)
GPS Sync
mode when using GPS-synchronized current interrupters.
2
• Data Logger Overview (page 28)
• Shortcut Keys (page 29)
Safety Precautions
Observe the following safety precautions when using AI-DVM:
• Follow safety procedures for the equipment being tested. Inspect test leads for
damaged insulation or exposed metal. Check test lead continuity. Damaged leads
should be replaced.
• To avoid electrical shock and damage to the Allegro, do not use the Allegro when
working with voltages greater than that supported by the DAQ (data acquisition)
card or measuring current, except across a shunt.
• To avoid electrical shock and damage to the Allegro, remove test leads before
replacing the Allegro battery or connecting to a desktop or laptop computer. Set
up the Allegro with the correct test function and voltage range.
23
AI Allegro CX User’s Guide
DVM
(–)
(+)
Quick Start
This section provides quick start procedures for setting up and using AI-DVM. As a user
you will perform the following actions:
• Connect test leads to the Allegro (page 24)
• Set test function, voltage range, and sample rate (page 24)
• Set properties to measure on/off potentials (page 25)
• Set GPS properties (page 25)
• Set properties to measure current across an external shunt (page 25)
• Set data logger properties (page 26)
Connect test leads to the Allegro
1
Plug test leads in the red positive (+) and black negative (–) jacks on the Allegro
connector panel; positive to positive, negative to negative (Figure 2-1).
2
Click the
window (Figure 2-1).
Figure 2-1. AI-DVM Main Window
AI-DVM
icon on the Allegro desktop to display the main AI-DVM
Set test function, voltage range, and sample rate
1
Choose a test function by tapping
2
Set the voltage range either manually by tapping the up or down arrow buttons or,
tapping
Auto
to use autoranging instead.
Vdc, Vac, Amp, Ohm
, or
Diode
.
3
Ta p
24 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)
4
Options
range
field and select a minimum voltage range.
Tap the drop-down arrow in the
(European Standard)
return to the main DVM window.
. If using autoranging, tap the drop-down arrow in the
Sample rate
or
60 Hz (US Standard)
field and select either
. Click Ok to save settings and
Minimum
50 Hz
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