Juniper Allegro CX User Manual

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Page 1

American Innovations Allegro CX

Version 4.3.2

User Guide

Page 2

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

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

Page 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

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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

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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

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Export Control Classification Number . . . . . . . . . . .107

Software License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

Keyboard Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113

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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)

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

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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.

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

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

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

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.

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

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

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

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:

Ta p

Start

Settings

Control Panel

Display

icon.

Figure 1-5. Display Properties

Tap t he field and

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

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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:

Ta p

Start

Settings

Regional Settings Properties

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

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.

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

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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:

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

Programs)

Download the clicking the download link that appears in the pop-up window.

Select

Run this program from its current location

screen prompts to install the software.

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

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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:

Insert the with the Allegro. If you cannot locate the CD, please contact Technical Services at

pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com.

Follow on-screen prompts to install ActiveSync.

To establish a sync connection with the Allegro and your computer, follow these steps:

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

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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

Page 15

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:

on the Allegro installation CD.

CeFileXer.exe

Insert the Allegro installation CD in your computer’s CD drive.

in the

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

wToCmd.exe

Start

button and then type

field to locate the utility files and PCS CPDM

and

Open Windows Explorer and view the contents of the CD folder labeled on the installation CD.

Drag the files CPDM installation folder on your computer (Figure 1-11).

Click

Yes

the

Move File

wToCmd.exe

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

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

GPS Antenna (optional add-on)

Function Keys

Blue Shift Key

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

Page 17

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

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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

If the Allegro is on, press the power button to turn

If a GPS antenna cable is connected to the Allegro, disconnect the cable.

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

Stick Adapter

mode, follow these steps:

Off

the device.

¼ of a turn to release

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

Page 19

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

Page 20

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:

Ta p

Start

Settings

Ta p

Recalibrate

the touchscreen.

Figure 1-17. Recalibrate Touchscreen

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.

14 Getting Started

Page 21

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

Page 22

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

Page 23

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

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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

Page 25

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

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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

Page 27

Notes

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Get ti n g S t ar te d 21

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

22 Getting Started

Page 29

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.

• 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.

Page 30

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

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).

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

Choose a test function by tapping

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

Ta p

24 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)

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

60 Hz (US Standard)

field and select either

. Click Ok to save settings and

Minimum

50 Hz

Page 31

Set properties to measure on/off potentials

Verify

Vdc

is selected in the main DVM window and then tap

Tap t he

Ta p Select

On/Off

Enable On/Off mode

HiLo

tab.

when using a non-GPS current interrupter(s) in an interrupted survey. If

and then select

HiLo

Gps-Sync

using a GPS synchronized current interrupter(s), select

Set up remaining fields with the same settings as those used by the current interrupter(s).

Ta p Ok to save settings and return to the main DVM window.

Set GPS properties

Ta p

Options

in the main DVM window and then tap the

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Options

in the

Gps-Sync

GPS

tab.

Method

instead.

field.

If using the Allegro GPS internal module (optional add-on), verify

COM3 (internal)

The option

and

Baudrate

9600

Read PPS from Internal GPS

is unavailable for selection when using

Comm Port

the Allegro internal GPS module. AI-DVM automatically uses the PPS timing signal received by the internal GPS module.

If using dual GPS (optional add-on), follow these steps to set up AI-DVM:

Set communication parameters (

Comm Port

and

Baudrate

) for a second GPS

receiver connected in COM 1 of the Allegro.

If you want to use the PPS timing signal received by the Allegro internal module instead of the second GPS receiver, tap

GPS

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the main DVM window.

Read PPS from Internal

Set properties to measure current across an external shunt

Ta p

Amp

in the main DVM window.

Set the voltage range either manually by tapping the up or down arrow buttons or, tapping

Ta p

Options

Auto

to use autoranging instead.

Amps Mode

tab.

Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM) 25

Page 32

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Complete one of the following steps:

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the main DVM window.

Set data logger properties

Ta p

Set a time interval by tapping the drop-down arrow in the first field and selecting a value (1-50). Tap the drop-down arrow in the second

interval

Tap

as R value

and enter a shunt resistance value in the

Resistance

-or-

If you want AI-DVM to automatically calculate shunt resistance, tap

mV values

Options

Enable logging

and enter a shunt size in the mV and

in the main DVM window and then the

Amps

fields.

Data Logger

tab.

Update interval

field and select a measurement of time (seconds, minutes, or hours).

field.

as Amp/

Update

IMPORTANT: When recording an hour or more of data, use the external AC power

adapter to prevent draining the Allegro battery. The automatic power-down feature of the Allegro is disabled during data logging.

Ta p

Browse

Type a name for the file in the

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Tap OK to save settings and close the

Ta p

Append

end of the file.

Ta p

Timestamp

Ta p OK to save settings and start a data logging session. in the AI-DVM title bar. To stop the data logging session, tap

Logger

to display the

Save As

window and complete the following steps:

Name

field

Type

field and choose a file format.

Save As

window.

to include all readings in the file with the most recent reading at the

to include a time stamp with each reading.

DVM - Logging

tab >

Enable logging

Options

displays

Data

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the main DVM window.

26 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)

Page 33

DVM Graph Overview

Shaded area represents on cycle; non-shaded area represents off cycle.

Status line with current reading, voltage range, and number of GPS satellites in view.

Vertical dotted line indicates recorded reading.

Horizontal dotted line indicates zero (0) volts.

Sets upper voltage range.

Hold: Tap to stop or start scrolling data.

Save: Tap to display Data Remarks window

and save graph. Use Data Remarks to add notes in a graph. Graph saves as a text file and includes any added notes.

DVM: Tap to close graph and return to DVM window.

Up/Down Arrows: Tap to set the voltage range (20mV, 200mV, 2V, 25V, or 150 or 250V).

Tap in the white space area to view real-time settings.

Black triangles indicate start of the on cycle.

Sets lower voltage range.

Sets graph X-axis in seconds. Maximum is 60 seconds.

AI-DVM displays the on/off interruption cycle in real-time as a waveform graph in addition to the digital display in the main DVM window.

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

When using AI-DVM during an on/off survey, tap interruption cycle (Figure 2-2).

Graph

to view a waveform graph of the

Figure 2-2. DVM Graph

The graph includes a status line below the reading. The status line identifies the voltage range, test function, and on/off method. If setup includes also identifies the number of satellites in view.

For example, a status line of

•

25VDC

•

DGPS

: differential GPS is available

(5)

•

: number of satellites in view

: PPS time signal has been received

: ZDA message has been received

25VDC DGPS (5) PZ

: voltage range and test function

GPS Sync

mode, the status line

indicates the following information:

Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM) 27

Page 34

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Other indicators that may appear in the status line include those in the following list:

•

GPS (n)

•

HiLo

•

GPS (n HiLo)

signal is unavailable. The lowercase n represents the number of satellites in view.

: indicates GPS and the number of satellites in view

: indicates high/low readings

: indicates GPS mode is selected but HiLo is used because the GPS

Data Logger Overview

Unless specified differently during setup, data logger files save in the default. To access the folder, double-tap The data logger file includes the following information (Figure 2-3):

• log file date and time stamp

• reading mode (on/off or single reading)

• readings with date and time stamp

• update interval and voltage range

If AI-DVM is setup in Readings include a lower case

GPS Sync

My Computer

mode, GPS status is included in the log file.

next to the time stamp to indicate GPS time.

C_Drive

DvmData

BTS

DvmData

folder by

Figure 2-3. Data Logger File

To set up the data logger for use, refer to the

Set data logger properties

28 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)

Quick Start

topic on page 26 entitled

Page 35

Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys are an alternate method for using certain commands in AI-DVM instead of menu commands. Use the Allegro keypad to run any of the commands identified in the following table (Table 2-1).

Table 2-1. AI-DVM Shortcut Keys

Command Shortcut Keys Description

AiDVM Graph <

> or <

ALT><G

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

>Displays AiDvm graph.

Copy / Paste <

Option Window <

Vol tage Range <

VDC Test Function <

VAC Test Function <

Amp Test Function <

Ohm Test Function <

Diode Test Function <

CTRL><C

> or <

ALT><N

CTRL><Up

CTRL><Down

Alt><U

> or <

> or

ALT><D

ALT><A

ALT><M

ALT><I

ALT><D

> Copies a reading from the digital

voltmeter to paste into an PTab spreadsheet file.

> Displays the Options window.

Adjust the voltage range or select auto ranging. To increase, select <CTRL><Up>; to decrease <CTRL><Down>; and to auto range select <ALT>.

> Selects the Vdc test function.

> Selects the Vac test function.

> Selects the Amp test function.

> Selects the Ohm test function.

> Selects the Diode test function.

Enable/Disable Autoranging

Move Cursor to Sample Rate Field

> Press A to move cursor to the

Auto-range enable field and either enable or disable the option.

> Press S to move cursor to the

Sample rate field.

Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM) 29

Page 36

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Table 2-1. AI-DVM Shortcut Keys

Command Shortcut Keys Description

Navigate DVM Options Window

Open Graph Remarks Window and Add Data

Tab

Up/Down Arrows

Enter

> / <

> <

Cancel

Save

Tab

Enter

The following are available for use in all tabs of DVM Options:

• Press <Tab> to move cursor

from one field to another.

• Press <Up/Down Arrows> to

move cursor in a drop-down list. Press <Enter> to accept a

selection in a drop-down list.

• Move cursor to <Ok> and then

press <Enter> to apply changes. Move cursor to <Cancel> and then press <Enter> to cancel changes.

• Press <Tab> to move cursor to

<Save> button and then press <Enter> to open graph remarks window.

• Press <Enter> in graph remarks

window to add a new line.

• To save remark, press <Tab> to

move cursor to <Ok> button and then press <Enter>.

• To cancel remark, press <Tab>

to move cursor to <Cancel> button and then press <Enter>.

30 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)

Page 37

Notes

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM) 31

Page 38

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

32 Digital Voltmeter (AI-DVM)

Page 39

Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

CeCi records pipeline potential readings for close interval (CI) surveys. The software collects survey readings from a data cane or wire counter connected to the Allegro. CeCi measures voltage using the digital voltmeter card inside the Allegro.

This chapter explains how to set up and use AI’s close interval software, CeCi. Topics include:

• Quick Start (page 34)

• Set Survey File Options (page 39)

• Add Remarks and Test Point Information (page 41)

• View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site (page 42)

• Export a Survey File (page 42)

• Transfer a Survey File to PCS (page 43)

• Shortcut Keys (page 45)

Page 40

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Trailing Wire

Fixed IncrementFlagged

Hip

Pack

Trailing Wire

Hip

Pack

Quick Start

Procedures in this section explain how to set up CeCi to record pipeline potential readings for a close interval survey. As a user you will perform the following actions:

• Connect test leads to the Allegro (page 34)

• Set survey properties (page 35)

• Set survey type and mode (page 35)

• Set on/off survey type (page 37)

• Set GPS properties (page 38)

• Save survey file (page 38)

• Record inspection readings (page 38)

Connect test leads to the Allegro

CeCi software records potential readings using the Allegro digital voltmeter and either a data cane or wire counter connected to the red and black jacks on the Allegro connector panel.

To get started, complete the following steps:

Plug test leads in the red positive (+) and black negative (–) jacks on the Allegro connector panel; positive to positive, negative to negative (Figure 3-1).

Click the (Figure 3-1).

CeCi

icon on the Allegro desktop to display the main CeCi window

Figure 3-1. CeCi Main Window

34 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Page 41

Set survey properties

Ta p

File

Properties

Provide information in the following fields of the

to display the

Survey

tab.

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Survey

tab:

Segment

•

you plan to transfer the survey file to PCS,

Code

folder labeled

•

Pipe:

survey file to PCS,

Code

: Enter the name of the ROW (right-of-way) in this required field. If

Segment

name must match

in PCS. If these fields do not match, PCS creates a new ROW Code and

Unknown

in the PCS hierarchy.

Enter a pipeline code in this optional f ield. If you plan to transfer the

Pipe

is equivalent to

Pipeline Code

in PCS. If the

entered earlier includes multiple, parallel pipelines with different pipeline codes, enter the appropriate pipeline code. If pipeline codes have not been created in PCS, leave this field empty.

Tech:

•

the survey file to PCS, the surveyor’s name populates the

Enter the surveyor’s name in this optional field. If you plan to transfer

Surveyor

field in the

Indirect Survey Manager (ISM) module.

Run:

•

Enter a unique survey name in this optional field. If transferring the survey file to PCS, data in this field creates a new CI survey folder in ISM. Examples of a unique survey name are: station number, milepost number, date, or a combination of date and station or milepost number.

•

Date:

Enter a date or use the one automatically entered by CeCi.

ROW

Set survey type and mode

Tap t he either

Once you begin the survey,

Tap t he

Flagged

Depending on the survey mode selected earlier, continue with the next procedure or

Type

tab. Click the drop-down arrow in the

AC Survey

DC Survey

Survey Type

Modes

tab. Click the drop-down arrow in the

Fixed increment

Set fixed increment mode properties

Survey Type

field and select

cannot be changed.

Mode

field and select either

(page 36).

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 35

Page 42

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Set flagged mode properties

If using a metric data cane to trigger reads, tap meters.

Enter the distance between flags or station markers in the

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Descending

If you want to take timed readings using a data cane, tap

Readings

field.

Metric

to record readings in

Flag distance

Direction

field and select

Ascending

to indicate how station numbers increment in the survey file.

Enable Timed

and then enter the number of reads per minute in the

Readings/minute

field.

NOTE: Double-click detection must also be enabled in the

(

View

with an

Options

flag; triple-clicking will pause or resume timed readings. Pressing F5 or

Misc

tab). Double-clicking the data cane marks a survey record

Misc

tab of

Options

<Ctrl>+ on the Allegro keypad will also pause or resume timed readings.

If you want to monitor the number of reads per flag, tap

per flag

and then click the drop-down arrow in the

Monitor record count

Warn at above average

and select a percentage value. The Allegro beeps 3 times as a warning when the number of reads for the current flag session is more than the average percentage of reads taken for previous flag sessions.

Continue with

Set on/off survey type

(page 37).

Set fixed increment mode properties

If using a metric wire counter (chainer) to trigger reads, tap readings in meters.

Enter the distance between reads in the

Increment

increments of 2.5 feet or 1 meter for metric mode.

field. The distance should be in

Metric

to record

field

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Descending

Ta p

Use wire counter

(chainer).

36 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Direction

field and select

Ascending

to indicate how station numbers increment in the survey file.

if survey readings will be taken using a wire counter

Page 43

Set on/off survey type

Tap t he

If you are taking an uninterrupted survey, tap the drop-down arrow in the

Type native, static

If you are taking an interrupted survey using non-GPS synchronized interrupters, complete the following steps:

On/Off

field and select

tab.

, or

depolarized

On (single reading

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

High/Low

Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the

time

and

OFF time

Enter an on delay time in the

Delay

field.

fields.

survey.

On Delay

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

). An interrupted survey includes an on,

Survey Type

field and select

field and an

On/Off

off

delay time in the

Survey

Off

On Delay

recorded.

is the time after the

Off Delay

is the time after the

off-to-on

transition when a reading is not

on-to-off

transition when a reading is not recorded. If a reading is recorded during these transition times, the last available reading before the transition is recorded.

If you are taking an interrupted survey using GPS synchronized current interrupters, complete the following steps:

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Sync

On/Off GPS Sync

On/off GPS Real-time

works best for short cycle surveys when the on and interval is 1 second or less. surveys when either the

Survey Type

field and select

On/Off GPS Real-time

off

cycle is greater than 1 second. For suggested

works best for long cycle

on/off settings, see Appendix A (page 75).

Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the fields labeled

For an an off delay time in the

ON time, OFF time

On/Off GPS Sync

Off Delay

, and

Cycle begins with

survey, enter a setup time in the

field.

On/Off GPS

On Setup

off

field and

On Setup

recorded. not recorded. If a reading is recorded during these transition times. the last available reading before the transition is recorded.

is the time before the

Off Delay

it the time after the

off-to-on

transition when a reading is not

on-to off

transition when a reading is

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 37

Page 44

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Set GPS properties

If you are taking an

GPS

For an field, an

Setup Time

•

On/off GPS Real-time

off

delay time in the

field.

On Delay

is the time after the

survey, enter an on delay time in the

Off Delay

field, and a setup time in the

off-to-on

transition when a reading is not

recorded.

•

Off Delay

is the time after the

on-to-off

transition when a reading is not

recorded.

•

GPS-RT Setup Time

is the time before the transition when a reading is

not recorded.

If a reading is recorded during these transition times, the last available reading before the transition is recorded.

On/Off GPS Sync

On/off GPS Real-time

survey, tap the

tab to set up GPS properties.

On Delay

GPS-RT

Ta p

Record GPS Location

drop-down arrow in the

to include coordinates with survey readings. Tap the

Record GPS Location

field and select an interval option

that identifies how often coordinates are included with readings.

Ta p

Record time of reading

If you are using a second GPS receiver (dual GPS), complete the following steps:

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

to include a GPS time stamp with readings.

Comm port

field and select the COM port

the GPS receiver is connected to.

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Baudrate

field and select a baud rate

supported by the GPS receiver.

If you want the Allegro to synchronize with current interrupters using the satellite PPS signal (pulse-per-signal), tap

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

Read PPS from Internal GPS

Save survey file

Tap t he new survey file that has not previously been saved. Enter a name for the new survey file in the

Save

icon or tap

Name

field and then tap OK.

File

Save

. The

Save As

window displays when working with a

Record inspection readings

If using a data cane, press record readings in the survey file. If using a wire counter (chainer), each pulse from the wire counter automatically records a reading in the survey file.

38 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Enter

on the Allegro keypad or single-click the data cane to

Page 45

Set Survey File Options

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

To set optional features in CeCi, tap in the following list:

• Set audio and double-click properties (page 39)

• Set autosave and skip mode properties (page 39)

• Set GPS properties (page 40)

• Set color properties (page 40)

• Set graph properties (page 40)

View

Options

Set audio and double-click properties

Tap the Misc tab and select beep each time a reading is taken.

If you want the Allegro to beep when the voltage is more positive than the warning value you specify, tap enter a warning value in the

Beep on every Reading

Beep for voltages less negative than this value

Voltage level

field.

. Topics in this section include those

if you want the Allegro to

, and

Ta p

Beep when overwrite existing data

survey reading is overwritten.

If you want to double-click the data cane to mark a record with a flag in CeCi, tap

Enable double-click detection

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

if you want the Allegro to beep when a

Set autosave and skip mode properties

Tap t he

Enter a time interval in the save a survey file at regular time intervals.

Ta p for the current record when skipping to another record during

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

File

tab and select

Retain Skipped records in Skip mode

Enable Autosave

Interval (minutes)

if you want CeCi to keep the reading

field to have CeCi automatically

Skip

mode.

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 39

Page 46

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Set GPS properties

Tap t he

If you want CeCi to remove existing GPS coordinates when updated coordinates are unavailable after a specified amount of time, tap and enter the number of seconds in the

When GPS coordinates are older than 30 seconds, CeCi displays the time since the last GPS update. When GPS coordinates are older than 15 seconds, CeCi inserts an asterisk (*) after the coordinates.

Tap the drop-down arrow in

Decimal minutes

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

Set color properties

Tap t he

GPS

tab.

Colors

GPS display Format

Decimal degrees

tab and select

seconds without updates

Enable color

Clear GPS location after

and select either

field.

Degrees and

Select an option in the list and then a color in the color grid. Repeat this step for each item in the list you want to assign a color.

For example, to have readings display in red text in the survey file when readings do not meet criteria, select

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

Set graph properties

Tap t he

Set upper voltage by entering a value in the down arrows.

Set lower voltage by entering a value in the down arrows.

Indicate how much data to display by entering a value (in feet) in the or tapping the up/down arrows.

Ta p OK to close the window and return to the survey file.

Graph

tab and select

Invalid Value

Show Graph

and the color

Upper value

Lower value

red

in the color grid.

field or tapping the up/

Width

field

Tap t he sa v e i co n.

Double-tapping inside the graph displays the

Options

Ta p Ok to save changes and return to the survey file.

40 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Graph

tab.

Graph

tab, as well as tapping

View

Page 47

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Add Remarks and Test Point Information

The

Remarks

information in the remarks field of a survey record. For example, add a geographical reference or the type of test point.

Add a remark

Add test point information

and

Test Point Information

Select a survey record and then tap

Double-tap a remark or enter the remark’s code number. CeCi inserts the remark in the remarks field of the currently selected record. You can also enter your own remark in the remarks field.

Select a survey record and then tap

Double-tap a test point and enter required values when prompted.

windows allow you to add additional

Remark

View

in the main menu.

Test Point Info

Ta p OK to enter the information in the survey record and return to the survey file.

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 41

Page 48

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site

You can view survey records either as a list or single record. Tap

List

When viewing a single record with GPS coordinates, double-tap the GPS field to display the

Site Locator

window (Figure 3-2).

Site Locator

The when the Allegro is not receiving a valid GPS fix. The message when the following conditions occur:

• The difference in latitude and longitude is more than 5 degrees.

• Latitude is above 85 degrees north or below 85 degrees south. Also expressed as

85-90N degrees latitude (northern hemisphere) and 85-90S degrees latitude (southern hemisphere).

window. Tapping

window shows bearing and distance to a target location. Bearing is blank

View

Show bearing to site

View

Single record

also displays the

Out of Range

displays

Figure 3-2. Site Locator

Export a Survey File

You can export CeCi survey files as a dBase file (.dbf) or comma separated file (.csv) for use with other software applications, such as Microsoft Excel.

To export a survey file, follow these steps:

Ta p

File

Export

Tap t he

Ta p OK to close the window.

Use Windows Mobile Device Center or ActiveSync to move a copy from the Allegro

CiData AI

Type

field and select an export format from the list of options.

folder to your computer (

CiData

Start

File Explorer

Storage (or SD Card)

42 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Page 49

Transfer a Survey File to PCS

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

PCS utility files labeled release of Allegro software in order for survey files to transfer properly from the Allegro to PCS. For more information, refer to

To transfer a CeCi survey file to PCS:

Connect the provided serial cable to your computer and the Allegro. If you are using a USB power dock, connect the USB cable to the power dock and your computer.

At your computer, start WMDC or ActiveSync. Follow on-screen prompts to establish communications. For ActiveSync users, click a

Partnership

Start PCS and click

Click

Field Computer

Click

Receive CIS Data

Click

Retrieve File Listing

wToCmd.exe

. Clicking No allows you to create a

Module

and

CeFileXer.exe

Transfer Utility Files to PCS

Indirect Survey Manager (ISM)

Receive Data

and

From Allegro

and select the survey files you want to transfer.

must be updated for the current

(page 9).

when prompted to create

Guest

connection instead.

Click

Receive

displays. Refer to the PCS manual for information about viewing and managing survey data in ISM.

and then click OK when the message

Processing file completed

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 43

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Single Record View

(View > Single record)

List View

(View > List)

Graph of survey readings (View > Options > Graph tab).

Station number (SN); Marker field that may be blank or contain any of the following markers based on the survey setup: F (flag), G (gap), or M (location entered manually); and On/Off readings.

Survey remarks field. If the location includes recorded GPS coordinates and you view the survey file in Single record mode, coordinates display in the survey remarks field.

Current GPS coordinates. If satellite communication has not been established, GPS invalid displays. When viewing in List View mode, coordinates record in the survey file but do not display.

On, off, and live DVM reading. ON or OFF display based on the current cycle position.

GPS displays when using GPS and satellite communication has been established. If the Allegro loses the GPS signal, GPS (Hilo) displays.

G: receiving GPS locations from 4 or more satellites.

D: receiving differential GPS locations.

(blank): GPS is unavailable or not currently in use.

– – – : receiving invalid GPS data.

(1), (2), or (3): number of satellites in view.

Any of the following status indicators also display when viewing in List View mode:

Survey File Features

The following example (Figure 3-3) shows the type of information that displays in a survey file.

44 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Figure 3-3. CeCi Survey File Features

Page 51

Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys listed in the following table (Table 3-1) are an alternate method for using certain commands in CeCi. Use the Allegro keypad to run any of the following commands.

Table 3-1. CeCi Shortcut Keys

Command Shortcut Keys Description

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

New <

Open <

Save <

Flag Marker <

Reset Flag Count <

Gap M ar ke r <

Capture Reading <

Go to first record <

Go to last record <

Go To… <

Ctrl><N

Ctrl><O

Ctrl><S

> Inserts a flag marker.

Ctrl><F

> Inserts a gap marker in Flagged

Enter

CTRL><Home

CTRL><End

Ctrl><G

> Opens a new survey.

> Displays the File Open window.

> Saves the survey.

> Reset Flag Count

mode.

> Captures a reading.

> Moves the cursor to the first

record

> Moves the cursor to the last

record

>Displays the Go To Location

window.

Skip <

Insert Record <

Delete Record <

Ctrl><K

CTRL><Ins

CTRL><Del

> Displays the Skip Distance

window (only in Fixed Increment).

> Inserts a new record.

> Deletes a record.

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 45

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Table 3-1. CeCi Shortcut Keys (continued)

Command Shortcut Keys Description

Skip/Lock/Normal <

> Toggles between Skip/Lock/

Normal in Fixed Increment mode.

Pause <

Tes t Po i nt Information

Open File Menu <

Open Move Menu <

Open Remark Window

Ok / Cancel <

Navigate Open and Save As Windows

> Pauses timed readings.

Ctrl><T

> Displays the Test Point

Information window.

Alt><F

Alt><M

Ctrl><R

>Opens File menu.

>Opens Move menu.

>Opens Remark window.

> /

Press <Ok> to apply changes or <Cancel> to cancel changes.

Tab

Press <

Tab

> to move cursor

between fields.

Up/Down Arrows

< <

Home/End Arrows

> and

Press <

End Arrows

Up/Down

> to navigate list of

files.

and

Home/

Navigate GPS Tab

Performs the following functions in the GPS tab of Options:

• Press <

> to enable or disable Clear GPS Location After.

• Press <

> to move cursor to

Seconds Without Updates.

• Press <

> to move cursor to

GPS Display Format.

46 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Page 53

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Table 3-1. CeCi Shortcut Keys (continued)

Command Shortcut Keys Description

Navigate Graph Tab <

Press <

Show Graph in Graph tab of Options.

With Show Graph enabled:

• Press <

Upper Value.

• Press <

Lower Value.

> to enable or disable

> to move cursor to

Navigate Colors Tab <

Tab

Up/Down Arrows

Home/End Arrows

• Press <

> to move cursor

to Width.

Press <

> to enable or disable

Enable Color in the Colors tab of Options.

With Enable Color enabled:

• Press <

Tab

> to move cursor between field selection list and color grid.

• Press <

Up/Down Arrows

> to navigate f ield selection list.

• Press <

or <

Home/End Arrows

Up/Down Arrows

> to

navigate color grid.

Close Interval Survey (CeCi) 47

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Notes

48 Close Interval Survey (CeCi)

Page 55

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

DCVG locates indications of pipeline coating defects. The software records the voltage gradient and GPS location for further review and analysis later. DCVG collects data from a data cane connected to the Allegro.

This chapter explains how to set up and use AI’s DCVG software. Topics include those in the following list:

• Quick Start (page 49)

• Survey File Options (page 54)

• Add Remarks, Indication, and Test Point Information (page 56)

• View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site (page 57)

• Export a Survey File (page 58)

• Shortcut Keys (page 60)

Quick Start

Procedures in this section explain how to set up the DCVG software to measure and record direct current voltage gradients for a DCVG survey. As a user you will perform the following actions:

• Connect data canes to the Allegro (page 50)

• Set survey properties (page 51)

• Set survey mode (page 51)

Page 56

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

DCVG

• Set on/off survey type (page 52)

• Set DCVG properties (page 53)

• Set GPS properties (page 53)

• Save survey file (page 54)

• Record inspection readings (page 54)

Connect data canes to the Allegro

DCVG collects data using two data canes connected to the red and black jacks on the Allegro connector panel. When an indication is detected, you can then define the size of the indication.

Complete the following steps:

Plug data canes in the red positive (+) and black negative (–) jacks on the Allegro connector panel; positive to positive, negative to negative (Figure 4-1).

Click the

DCVG

icon on the Allegro desktop to display the main DCVG window

(Figure 4-1).

The reading area at the top of the DCVG window displays the IR gradient (on reading minus the off reading); millivolt reading (shown as 2 mV in the next example); and polarity if enabled in the DCVG tab of Properties. The polarity arrow displays when readings are greater than 3mV or less than –3mV.

Figure 4-1. DCVG Main Window

50 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 57

Set survey properties

Ta p

File

Properties

Provide information in the following fields of the

to display the

Survey

tab.

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Survey

tab:

Segment

•

you plan to import DCVG data in PCS using Bridge, match Code and folder labeled

: Enter the name of the ROW (right-of-way) in this required field. If

ROW Code

Segment

in PCS. If these f ields do not match, PCS creates a new ROW

Unknown

in the PCS hierarchy.

name must

NOTE: PCS does not currently support direct import of Allegro DCVG survey

files (

Field Computer

Bridge, you can however import DCVG data using PCS Bridge ( See the PCS user manual for details.

Pipe:

•

Enter a pipeline code in this optional field. If you plan to import DCVG

data in PCS using Bridge,

ROW Code

pipeline codes, enter the appropriate pipeline code. If pipeline codes have not been created in PCS, leave this field empty.

Tech:

DCVG data in PCS using Bridge, the surveyor’s name populates the field in the Indirect Survey Manager (ISM) module.

entered earlier includes multiple, parallel pipelines with different

Enter the surveyor’s name in this optional field. If you plan to import

Receive Data

Pipe

is equivalent to

). If your PCS activation code includes

Tools

Pipeline Code

in PCS. If the

Surveyor

Bridge

•

Run:

Enter a unique survey name in this optional field. For example, include station number, milepost number, date, or a combination of station number and date, or milepost and station number. If you plan to import DCVG data in PCS using Bridge, data in this field creates a new CI survey folder in ISM.

•

Date:

Enter a date or use the one automatically entered by DCVG.

Set survey mode

Tap t he

Flagged

Depending on the survey mode selected earlier, continue with the next procedure or

Modes

Fixed increment

Set fixed increment mode properties

tab. Click the drop-down arrow in the

(page 52).

Mode

field and select either

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 51

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Set flagged mode properties

Ta p

Enter the distance between flags or station markers in the

Click the drop-down arrow in the

Descending

If you want to monitor the number of reads per flag, tap

per flag

Skip the next section and continue with

Set fixed increment mode properties

Metric

if you want readings recorded in meters instead of feet.

Direction

to indicate how station numbers increment in the survey file.

and then click the drop-down arrow in the

Set on/off survey type

field and select

Monitor record count

Warn at above average

Flag distance

Ascending

(page 52).

field.

field

Ta p

Metric

Enter the distance between reads in the

Click the drop-down arrow in the

Descending

if you want readings recorded in meters instead of feet.

to indicate how station numbers increment in the survey file.

Set on/off survey type

Tap t he

Tap the drop-down arrow in the survey types:

•

On/Off

On/Off High/Low

tab.

GPS synchronized interrupters. Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the

On/Off GPS Sync

GPS synchronized current interrupters. Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the and

Cycle begins with

properties in the

GPS

Increment

Direction

Survey Type

field and select

field.

Ascending

field and select one of the following

: Select this survey type for interrupted surveys using non-

ON time, OFF time, On Delay

, and

Off Delay

fields.

: Select this survey type for an interrupted survey using

ON time, OFF time, On Setup, Off Delay

fields. This survey type requires that you also set up

tab.

52 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 59

Set DCVG properties

Tap t he

Measure and enter the on reading taken at the beginning and end of the survey in the

Measure the

P/S Off, Begin,

and then press

Take readings at the beginning and end of the survey. Enter the difference in the

Half-cell calibration Begin

reading for either of these fields.

Ta p DCVG window indicating the polarity of the reading during the survey.

DCVG

tab.

P/S On, Begin

Show DCVG Polarity

and

Off

reading taken at the beginning and end of the survey in the

and

End

Enter

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

End

fields.

fields. Tap the V button to view a live voltage reading

on the Allegro keyboard to save the voltage reading.

and

End

fields. Tap the V button to view a live voltage

if you want a directional arrow to display in the main

Set GPS properties

Tap t he

Ta p drop-down arrow in the that identifies how often coordinates are included with readings.

Ta p

If you are using a second GPS receiver (dual GPS), complete the following steps:

Ta p OK to close

GPS

tab.

Record GPS Location

Record time of reading

Tap the drop-down arrow in the the GPS receiver is connected to.

Tap the drop-down arrow in the supported by the GPS receiver.

Tap

Read PPS from Internal GPS

receiver to provide a time stamp for readings.

Survey

to include coordinates with survey readings. Tap the

Record GPS Location

field and select an interval option

to include a GPS time stamp with readings.

Comm port

Baudrate

field and select the COM port

field and select a baud rate

if you want the Allegro internal GPS

properties.

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 53

Page 60

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Save survey file

Tap th e sav e ic on o r survey file that has not previously been saved. Enter a name for the new survey file in the

Name

field and then tap OK.

File

Record inspection readings

Press

Enter

on the Allegro keypad or single-click the data cane to record readings in the

survey file.

Survey File Options

To set optional features in DCVG, tap in the following list:

• Set optional audio and double-click properties (page 54)

• Set optional autosave properties (page 55)

• Set optional GPS properties (page 55)

Save

. The

Save As

View

window displays when working with a new

Options

. Topics in this section include those

• Set optional color properties (page 55)

Set optional audio and double-click properties

Tap t he

If you want the Allegro to beep when the voltage is above an absolute value you specify, tap value in the

Ta p survey reading is overwritten.

If you want to double-click the data cane to mark a survey record with a flag, tap

Enable double-click detection

Misc

tab if it is not visible (

Beep for voltages above this absolute value

Voltage level

Beep when overwrite existing data

field.

View

Options

if you want the Allegro to beep when a

Misc

tab).

, and enter a warning

54 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 61

Set optional autosave properties

Tap t he

Ta p

Enter a time interval in the automatically save a survey file at regular time intervals based on the

(minutes)

File

tab (

View

Enable Autosave

you specify.

Options

Interval (minutes)

File

Set optional GPS properties

Tap t he

If you want DCVG to remove existing GPS coordinates when updated coordinates are unavailable after a specified amount of time, tap and enter the number of seconds in the

When GPS coordinates are older than 30 seconds, DCVG displays the time since the last GPS update. When GPS coordinates are older than 15 seconds, DCVG inserts an asterisk (*) after the coordinates.

GPS

tab (

View

Options

GPS

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

tab).

field. This allows DCVG to

tab).

Clear GPS location after

seconds without updates

Interval

field.

Tap the drop-down arrow in

Decimal minutes

GPS display Format

Decimal degrees

Set optional color properties

Tap t he

Ta p

Select an option in the list and then a color in the color grid. Repeat this step for each item in the list you want to assign a color. For example, to have readings that do not meet criteria display in red text, select the color grid.

Colors

Enable color

tab (

View

Options

Colors

and select either

tab).

Invalid Value

Degrees and

and the color

red

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 55

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Add Remarks, Indication, and Test Point Information

The

Remarks

information in the remarks field of a survey record. For example, add information for an indication in

Topics in this section explain how to:

• Add a remark (page 56)

• Add indication information (page 56)

• Add test point information (page 57)

Add a remark

and

Test Point Information

Tes t P oi nt Inf o

Select a survey record and then tap

or additional geographical references in

windows allow you to add additional

Remark

in the main menu.

Remarks

Double-tap a remark or enter the remark’s code number. DCVG inserts the remark in the remarks field of the currently selected record. You can also enter your own remark in the remarks field of the survey file.

Add indication information

Ta p

View

Test Point Info

Double-tap

Enter information about the indication in the following fields of the

aID:

bType:

Options include

Anodic

c Signal Strength:

automatically calculates and enters values in the

Signal strength is the pipe-to-soil reading (P/S On – P/S Off).

Indication

Enter an identification number for the indication.

Tap the drop-arrow in the

Unknown, Cathodic/Anodic, Anodic/Cathodic, Anodic/

, and

Cathodic/Cathodic

when an indication is found during the survey.

to display an indication sizing window.

Enter the signal strength of the indication. DCVG

Summary

Type

field and select the type of indication.

Tota l I R

reading minus the pipe-to-soil

and

% IR

fields.

Off

tab:

56 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 63

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Tap t he

IRGradient

Take readings at the indication site until you reach remote earth. Press the data cane button to capture readings in DCVG, or press keypad. DCVG automatically calculates

Tap OK to return to the survey file.

tab and complete the following steps:

Enter

Tota l IR

on the Allegro

Add test point information

Select a survey record and then tap

Double-tap a test point and enter required values when prompted.

Ta p OK to enter the information in the survey record and return to the survey file.

View

Test Point Info

View Survey Records and Show Bearing to Site

You can view survey records either as a list or single record. Tap

List

When viewing a single record with GPS coordinates, double-tap the GPS field to display the

Site Locator

window (Figure 4-2).

The

Site Locator

when the Allegro is not receiving a valid GPS fix. The message when the following conditions occur:

• The difference in latitude and longitude is more than 5 degrees.

• Latitude is above 85 degrees north or below 85 degrees south. Also expressed as

85-90N degrees latitude (northern hemisphere) and 85-90S degrees latitude (southern hemisphere).

window. Tapping

window shows bearing and distance to a target location. Bearing is blank

View

Show bearing to site

View

Single record

also displays the

Out of Range

displays

Figure 4-2. Site Locator

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 57

Page 64

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Export a Survey File

You can export DCVG survey files as a dBase file (.dbf) or comma separated file (.csv) for use with other software applications, such as Microsoft Excel.

To export a survey file, follow these steps:

Ta p

File

Export

Tap t he

Ta p OK to close the window.

Use Windows Mobile Device Center or ActiveSync to move a copy from the Allegro

CiData AI

Type

field and select an export format from the list of options.

folder to your computer (

CiData

Start

File Explorer

Storage (or SD Card)

58 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 65

Survey File Features

Single Record View

(View > Single record)

List View

(View > List)

Live on/off reading, IR gradient, and polarity arrow.

Status line with any of the following information:

Polarity arrow displays when Show

DCVG Polarity is enabled (File > Properties > DCVG tab). Positive (+)

is indicated with a right pointing arrow, negative (–) is indicated with a left pointing arrow.

Recorded station number (SN), marker, and IR gradient.

When viewing in List mode, also includes Remarks field with indication data (number, type, signal strength, and remarks).

Single record mode: Remark field with recorded indication data. Second remark field displays with GPS coordinates when set up in On/Off GPS Sync mode.

List Mode: Live GPS coordinates, number of satellites in view, and PDOP signal strength.

Shows recorded data for a selected record, such as indication number, type, signal strength, and remarks.

Shows any of the following when capturing data for a survey record:

Gps: Receiving satellite signal. Survey file is set up in On/Off GPS

Sync mode.

Gps (HiLo): Not receiving satellite

signal; data is captured in HiLo mode instead. Survey file is set up in On/Off GPS Sync mode.

HiLo: Survey file is set up in On/Off High/Low mode.

F:0: Flag marker and flag count.

Survey file is set up in Flagged mode and option Monitor record count per flag is enabled.

The following example shows the type of information that displays in a DCVG survey file (Figure 4-3).

Figure 4-3. DCVG Survey File Features

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 59

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Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys listed in the next table (Table 4-1) are an alternate method for using certain commands in DCVG. Use the Allegro keypad to run any of the following commands.

Table 4-1. DCVG Shortcut Keys

Command Shortcut Keys Description

New <

Open <

Save <

Flag Marker <

Gap <

Capture Reading <

Go to first record <

Go to last record <

Ctrl><N

Ctrl><O

Ctrl><S

> Enters an F in the record to

> Enters a G in the record to show

Enter

CTRL><Home

CTRL><End

> Creates a new survey.

> Displays the File Open window.

> Saves the survey.

show a Flag.

a Gap.

> Captures a reading.

> Moves the cursor to the first

record

> Moves the cursor to the last

record

Go To… <

Skip <

Insert Record <

Delete Record <

Tes t Po i nt Information

60 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Ctrl><G

Ctrl><K

CTRL><Ins

CTRL><Del

Ctrl><T

> Displays the Go To location

window.

> Displays the Skip Distance

window (only in Fixed Increment).

> Inserts a new record.

> Deletes a record.

> Displays the Test Point

Information window.

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Notes

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DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) 61

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62 DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)

Page 69

Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

Periodic Survey (PS) measures voltage readings for annual and periodic surveys. The software collects survey readings from test leads connected to the Allegro. PS is used in conjunction with AI’s PCS software. Facility and inspection fields are established in PCS and then transferred to the Allegro. After completing a survey, data is then transferred from the Allegro back to PCS.

NOTE: The PCS survey route includes information and reading fields for ROW (right-of-

way) facilities to be surveyed. For information about how to build and transfer a survey route to the Allegro, refer to the PCS user manual.

Topics in this chapter include those in the following list:

• Quick Start (page 64)

• Timed Readings (page 68)

• Set Autosave Properties (page 69)

• Transfer a Survey Route to PCS (page 69)

• Copy a Survey Route to a Computer (page 70)

• Survey Route Features (page 71)

• Shortcut Keys (page 72)

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Rectifier Reading

(–)

(+)

Test Point Reading

(–)

(+)

Quick Start

Procedures in this section explain how to set up the Periodic Survey software to record readings for an annual or periodic survey. As a user you will perform the following actions:

• Connect test leads to the Allegro (page 64)

• Set on/off survey method (page 65)

• Set GPS properties (page 65)

• Add or delete a new site (page 66)

• Change font properties (page 67)

• Save survey route (page 68)

• Record inspection readings (page 68)

Connect test leads to the Allegro

PS records facility inspection readings using the Allegro digital voltmeter and a data cane connected to the red and black jacks on the Allegro connector panel.

Complete the following steps:

Plug test leads in the red positive (+) and black negative (–) jacks on the Allegro connector panel; positive to positive, negative to negative.

Click the PS icon on the Allegro desktop to start the software (Figure 5-1).

Ta p

File

Open

. Select a survey route in the

Open

window and then tap OK.

Figure 5-1. PS Survey Route

64 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

Page 71

Set on/off survey method

If you plan to take on/off potential readings, tap

On/Off

Tap the drop-down arrow in the following survey methods:

•

tab.

High/Low

: Select this survey method for an interrupted survey using nonGPS synchronized interrupters. Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the

Delay

fields.

GPS Sync

: Select this survey method for an interrupted survey using GPS synchronized current interrupters. Enter the same on/off times as set up for the current interrupter in the

Off Delay

, and

Cycle begins with

also set up properties in the

If on/off time settings are incorrect for either High/Low or GPS Sync, an error message displays with suggested settings. The error message includes a suggested setting with a calculated minimum value inside parentheses.

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

View

Options

On-Off Method

field and select one of the

ON time, OFF time, On Delay

to display the

, and

Instant Off

ON time, OFF time, Instant On Setup, Instant

fields. This survey type requires that you

GPS

tab (

View

Options

GPS

tab).

NOTE: The

commands

Disable

Insert GPS

submenu.

Set GPS properties

If you want to include GPS coordinates with readings, tap

Set GPS following these steps:

Display Format

Tap

View

Options

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Degrees and Decimal minutes

window.

Tap t he

Misc

tab and then tap

close the window.

option in the On-Off Method drop-down list disables the

in the

Edit

and enable

GPS

tab.

menu and

Show Bearing-distance to site

Display Format

Decimal degrees

Show Bearing-distance to site

Turn ON

in the

Edit

Edit > GPS

GPS

field and select either

. Tap OK to close the

Tur n ON

using the

. Tap OK to

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If you are using a second GPS receiver (dual GPS), complete the following steps:

Add or delete a new site

Complete the following steps to add or delete a new site. New sites added on the Allegro are marked with a bullet (•) in the

Complete the following steps:

Tap

Edit

GPS

Gps Settings

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

to display the

Comm port

field and select the COM port

the GPS receiver is connected to.

Tap the drop-down arrow in the

Baudrate

field and select a baud rate

supported by the GPS receiver.

Tap

Read PPS from Internal GPS

if you want the Allegro internal GPS

receiver to provide a time stamp with readings.

Site List

and can be deleted.

GPS Port Settings

window.

Ta p

View

Ta p

Options

properties:

Tap t he a r ro w in

proximity

Tap t he a r ro w in Tap

To add a new site:

Tap

Tap a facility type in the list to select a template for the new site.

Tap OK to close the window and return to the survey route.

Site List

and complete the following steps to set up

Order site by

and select either

Show

to return to

Add new site

and select either

Site List

All sites

Site List

Normal order

Only unsurveyed sites

display

GPS

66 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

Page 73

Click the drop-down arrow in the select

Other

and then enter a new ROW code.

ROW Code

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

field. Select a ROW code or

If you selected

Other

, complete the following steps to prevent entering an

incorrect ROW code:

Highlight an existing ROW code by pressing < the Allegro keypad, and then press <

Tap the ROW code field of the new site and press <

Ctrl

Shift

> <C>.

> <

Blue

> <

Ctrl

> <V>. Edit the

ROW code of the new site as needed.

Tap OK to return to the survey route.

IMPORTANT: If the

ROW Code

field is empty when the survey route is

transferred to PCS, a new ROW code is created in the PCS hierarchy labeled

From Allegro

Tap t he

Enter data for the new site in the Information fields. Information and Reading

Milepost

field and enter the new site’s milepost number.

fields are separated with a horizontal line. Information fields are above the line and Readings fields are below the line.

End

> on

To delete a site added on the Allegro:

Tap

View

Site List

Tap a site marked with a bullet (•) and then tap

Tap

Yes

when the message

Change font properties

Ta p

View

Options

Click the drop-down arrow in the

Edit field

Site List

List).

is a list of templates for adding a new site in the survey route (View > Site

Edit caption

fields.

Click the drop-down arrow in the

Fonts

refers to field names and

Delete this site?

Item

Font

Delete

displays.

field and select

Edit field

Site List, Edit caption

refers to data entered in

field and select a font type.

, or

Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey) 67

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Click the drop-down arrow in the

Repeat steps 2 through 4 to change font properties for another item. When you finish, click

Save survey route

Size

to return to the survey file.

field and select a font size.

Tap the save icon or tap

Record inspection readings

Select a reading field and then press voltmeter. Press survey file.

Enter

Timed Readings

When the survey route is set up in PCS with Allegro prompts for the following fields, these same fields are available in PS for timed readings: and

P/S Sample Time

To take timed readings, follow these steps:

Select one of the following fields and then press

Min P/S, Max P/S, Average P/S

File

Save

to save changes in the survey route.

Enter

on the Allegro keypad to activate the digital

again or single-click the data cane to capture the reading in the

Min P/S, Max P/S, Average P/S

Enter

on the Allegro keypad:

, and

P/S Sample Time

Figure 5-2. Timed Reading Fields

When the

Duration

readings.

Ta p

Start

the survey route.

Ta pp in g

68 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

Averaged Reading Survey

field and select the length of time the Allegro should take timed

to begin timed readings. When timed readings finish, tap OK to return to

Stop

anytime during the cycle stops timed readings.

window displays, tap the arrow in the

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Set Autosave Properties

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

PS provides an intervals. To set

Ta p

Ta p OK to close the window and return to the survey route.

Autosave

View

Enable Autosave

option that automatically saves the survey route at regular

properties, follow these steps:

Options > Misc

tab.

and select a time interval in the

Transfer a Survey Route to PCS

PCS utility files labeled release of Allegro software in order for survey files to transfer properly from the Allegro to PCS. For more information, refer to

To transfer a PS survey route to PCS, follow these steps:

Connect the provided serial cable to your computer and the Allegro. If you are using a USB power dock, connect the USB cable to the power dock and your computer.

wToCmd.exe

and

CeFileXer.exe

Transfer Utility Files to PCS

Interval (minutes)

must be updated for the current

on page 9.

field.

At your computer, start WMDC or ActiveSync. Follow on-screen prompts to establish communications. For ActiveSync users, click a

Partnership

Start PCS and open any module other than Indirect Survey Manager (ISM). For example, click

Click

Field Computer

window.

Click

Receive Facility Data

Select the survey file(s) you want to transfer to PCS and then click the window survey to Allegro data and then click

Click OK when the message complete.

. Clicking No allows you to create a

Module

Options for Receiving Data

Cathodic Protection Data Manager (CPDM)

Receive Data

From Allegro

Receive Allegro Data

to display the

displays, choose an option to assign a

Continue

when prompted to create

Guest

connection instead.

Receive Allegro Data

Retrieve File Listing

Receive

displays stating the process is

. When

Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey) 69

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Copy a Survey Route to a Computer

Complete the following steps to copy one or more PS survey routes to a computer:

Connect the provided serial cable to your computer and the Allegro. If you are using a USB power dock, connect the USB cable to the power dock and your computer.

At your computer, start WMDC or ActiveSync. Follow on-screen prompts to establish communications. For ActiveSync users, click a

Partnership

In WMDC, point the mouse at

contents of your device

. Clicking No allows you to create a

File Management

Guest

and then click

when prompted to create

connection instead.

Browse the

In ActiveSync, click the Allegro in Windows Explorer.

Click

Storage

Double-click the sort files by name.

Select and drag the

(or SD Card) and then double-click the AI folder.

PsData

.dat

Explore

folder. Click the

and matching

icon in the tool bar to display the contents of the

NOTE: PS survey routes use two files; one with a

.vls

extension. Both are labeled with the same filename.

Name

column in Windows Explorer to

.vls

file to your computer.

.dat

extension and the other with

70 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

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Survey Route Features

Information fields (above horizontal line) from Allegro prompts set up in PCS route file.

Reading fields (below horizontal line) from Allegro prompts set up in PCS route file.

Status bar with information for the currently selected field displaying in the following status panes.

1st status pane: may be empty or

display the last recorded reading if included in the PCS route file.

2nd status pane: displays GPS, DGPS, HILO, or DVM range and function based on the On-Off Method setup in the survey file (View > Options > On/Off tab).

3rd status pane: displays date and time of previous reading if included in PCS route file or, bearing-distance if set up in the Allegro and PCS route file includes GPS coordinates.

4th status pane: displays the record number of the currently viewed facility and the total number of facility records in the survey file. Percentage value identifies percentage of readings taken based on the total number of facility records.

5th status pane: displays the page number of the page you are viewing and the total number of pages in the survey file.

A PS survey route includes three main areas of information as shown in the next example (Figure 5-3).

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Figure 5-3. Survey Route Features

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Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys listed in the following table (Table 5-1) are an alternate method for using certain commands in PS. Use the Allegro keypad to run any of the following commands.

Table 5-1. PS Shortcut Keys

Command Shortcut Keys Description

Record Reading <

Record GPS Coordinates

Insert GPS Coordinates

Select Data in a Field <

Enter

> Records a reading. Options

include:

• Select reading field and

press <Enter> to activate the digital voltmeter. Press <Enter> again to record the reading.

• Select timed reading field

and press <Enter> to set up, start, stop, or cancel timed reading mode.

> Records GPS coordinates when

cursor is in a reading field.

> Insert GPS coordinates when

cursor is in a reading field and GPS status is running in the background.

Shift><Blue><Home

Select data from the current

cursor location to the end of the field.

Copy, Cut, Paste <

Undo <

Open <

72 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

Shift><Blue><End

CTRL><C

CTRL><X

CTRL><V

Ctrl><Z

Ctrl

>Undo last change.

> <O>Opens the File Open window.

Select data from the current cursor location to the beginning of the field.

Copy selection to the clipboard.

Remove selection and copy to clipboard.

Paste data from clipboard.

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Table 5-1. PS Shortcut Keys (continued)

Command Shortcut Keys Description

CTRL

Save <

> <S> Save survey file.

Next Page <

Previous Page <

Previous Site <

Next Site <

Open File Menu <

Open Edit Menu <

Open View Menu <

Navigate Information and Reading Fields

Navigate any Window or Tab

Ctrl

> <

Down

> Display next page of a multi-

page site.

Ctrl

> <Up> Display previous page of a

multi-page site.

Shift

> <

Up Arrow

Shift

> <

Down Arrow

Alt

> <F>Opens File menu.

Alt

> <E>Opens Edit menu.

Alt

> <V>Opens View menu.

Alt

> Moves cursor between

> Display previous site.

>Display next site.

information and reading fields.

Tab

• Press <Tab> to move cursor

from one field to another.

Up/Down Arrow

• Press <Up/Down Arrows> to

move cursor in a drop-down list.

Enter

> / <

• Press <Enter> to accept a

selection in a drop-down list.

Cancel

• Move cursor to <Ok> and

then press <Enter> to apply changes.

• Move cursor to <Cancel>

and then press <Enter> to cancel changes.

Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey) 73

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Notes

74 Annual/Periodic Survey (Periodic Survey)

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Recommendations for Interrupted On/Off Settings

This chapter provides recommendations for on/off settings in an interrupted survey set up in AiDvm, CeCi, or Periodic Survey.

When a survey file is set up in recommends the survey file also be set up with a backup if the satellite signal is lost. The Allegro defaults to mode until the satellite signal is re-acquired.

Table A-1. Suggested On/Off Settings

On/Off High/Low setup for 1 second cycle

A minimum/maximum reading from a sample of readings. Of the remaining 45 readings, the most negative reading is equal to the reading is equal to the

60 readings per cycle (60 readings per second):

0.7 on

0.3 off

0.8 on

200 mSec On Delay

50 mSec Off Delay

200 mSec On Delay

On/Off GPS Sync

off

reading.

On/Off GPS Real-time

On/Off High/Low

reading and the most positive

Filters out 12 most negative readings

Filters out 3 most positive readings

Filters out 12 most negative readings

settings. This serves as

On/Off High/Low

mode, AI

survey

0.2 off

50 mSec Off Delay

Filters out 3 most positive readings

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Table A-1. Suggested On/Off Settings (continued)

On/Off High/Low setup for greater than 1 second cycle

A minimum/maximum reading from a sample of readings. Of the remaining 99 readings, the most negative reading is equal to the reading is equal to the

120 readings per cycle (60 readings per second):

off

reading.

reading and the most positive

1.5 on

0.5 off

On/Off GPS Sync setup for 1 second cycle

250 mSec On Delay

100 mSec Off Delay

Filters out 15 most negative readings

Filters out 6 most positive readings

A minimum/maximum reading from a sample of readings. Of the remaining 99 readings, the most negative reading is equal to the reading is equal to the

off

reading.

reading and the most positive

A snapshot of readings in a certain time period:

off

cycle.

off

cycle.

0.7 on

0.3 off

0.8 on

0.2 off

On/Off High/Low setup for 1 second cycle

200 mSec On Setup

150 mSec Off Delay

200 mSec On Setup

100 mSec Off Delay

Takes reading 200 mSec before the

Takes reading 150 mSec into the

Takes reading 200 mSec before the

Takes reading 100 mSec into the

A minimum/maximum reading from a sample of readings. Of the remaining 45 readings, the most negative reading is equal to the reading is equal to the

1.5 on

0.5 off

250 mSec On Setup

250 mSec Off Delay

76 Recommendations for Interrupted On/Off Settings

off

reading.

reading and the most positive

Takes reading 250 mSec before the

Takes reading 250 mSec into the

off

cycle.

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AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

Table A-1. Suggested On/Off Settings (continued)

On/Off GPS Real-time setup for greater than 2 second cycle

8.0 on

2.0 off

GPS-RT

200 mSec On Delay

250 mSec Off Delay

50 mSec No readings 50 mSec before

Setup Time

Recommended solid state switches.

GPS-RT Setup Time

Starts reading 200 mSec into on cycle (off-to-on).

off

Starts reading 250 mSec into

Delay

No readings 50 mSec before

Delay

is 50 mSec for Mercury switches and 30 mSec for

cycle (on-to-off).

off

cycle to

Off

Recommendations for Interrupted On/Off Settings 77

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Notes

78 Recommendations for Interrupted On/Off Settings

Page 85

FAQs

This chapter provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Allegro Field PC and AI Allegro software. If you have a question not covered in this chapter, contact Technical Services at

How do I determine which version of software is installed on the Allegro?

pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com.

The software version is listed in the CeCi and then tap version as shown in the next example.

How do I get the latest version of software available for the Allegro?

Contact Technical Services at pcstechservices@aiworldwide.com for a

Password

to access files for download.

View

About CeCi

About

window of each AI software. For example, start

. The first line of information identifies the software

User Name

and

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I have a Trimble GPS receiver connected to the Allegro with successful communication established between the two. Why does the Allegro show HiLo mode instead of GPS mode?

Using an external GPS receiver with the Allegro is referred to as dual GPS. Although the Allegro and external GPS are communicating, the following items must also be set up on the Allegro:

• GPS patch antenna is plugged in the GPS ANT connector on the Allegro.

The Allegro includes an internal GPS module that uses the patch antenna to acquire a GPS timing signal from the satellite. If the GPS timing signal is unavailable, the Allegro operates in HiLo mode instead of GPS mode.

• GPS Pod Setup is set correctly for dual GPS. Tap Start > File Explorer > My Device >

Storage > Program Files > GPSPodSetup and verify settings match those shown in

the next figure.

• GPS Status is set correctly for dual GPS. Tap Start > GpsStatus > Options and verify

settings match those shown in the next figure.

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Based on the version of the DAQ card, AI Allegro software reads and sets the maximum voltage as 150V or 250V.

How do I enlarge the font size or change the touchscreen brightness and contrast settings?

To increase or decrease the font size

Ta p

Settings

Move the slider to increase or decrease text size. To change text size and font in a PS survey file tap

System

View

tab >

Fonts

Screen

Text S i z e

tab.

To change the backlight brightness

Ta p

Settings

Press < brightness. To decrease the contrast and brightness, press < simultaneously.

Orange

System

tab >

Backlight

Brightness

tab.

> <F5> keys simultaneously to increase the contrast and

Orange

> <F4> keys

How do I find the version number of the DVM card?

To determine the version of the DAQ card:

Run any of the AI Allegro software. For example, double-tap the the Allegro desktop.

Ta p

Options

version. The voltage range supported by the various DAQ card versions is identified in the following list:

150V maximum:

•

250V maximum:

About

tab to display the

About

window and view the DAQ card

DAQ FF and DAQ 0B

DAQ 08, DAQ 09, and DAQ 0A

AI-DVM

icon on

FAQ s 81

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How can I verify interruption or make timing adjustments to ensure the Allegro is capturing the correct Structure P/S and Structure IRF at the correct time?

Start AI-DVM to complete the following steps:

Ta p

Set up on/off settings and then tap OK.

Ta p For more information, see

Options

Graph

On/Off

to view a waveform of on/off readings as shown in the next example.

tab >

Enable On/Off mode

DVM Graph Overview

(page 27).

What can I do if I cannot get a GPS satellite fix?

Verify the following settings are correct:

• Run the GPS Status software and verify COM port settings are correct.

• Run the GPS Pod Setup software and verify settings are correct. All software must

be closed before viewing settings in GPS Pod Setup.

• Verify the GPS antenna has a clear view of the sky and is securely connected to the

Allegro.

Why are GPS coordinates not recording in my Periodic Survey file?

Verify the cursor is in a reading field in the bottom pane of the survey file. Tapping a reading field places the cursor in the field.

Why is the Insert GPS command unavailable for selection in the Periodic Survey software?

Verify the GPS Status software is running and the cursor is in a reading field in the bottom pane of the survey file. Tapping a reading field places the cursor in the field.

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Indicates SKIP mode.

Why does CeCi switch to Hi-Lo mode when my survey file is set up with GPS Sync or GPS Real-Time mode?

CeCi automatically switches to Hi-Lo mode when the Allegro loses the internal GPS time signal. When setting up a survey file in GPS Sync or GPS Real-time mode, AI recommends that you also set up the survey file in Hi-Lo mode.

Why do on/off readings look incorrect in CeCi?

• Run the AI-DVM software and view the waveform graph. Use the graph to verify

satellite communication and on/off settings are correct.

• View the AI-DVM waveform graph several times before taking survey readings.

This allows you to change on/off delay times as needed to get the best on/off capture.

How do I include Remarks and GPS coordinates in a CeCi survey file when using Skip/Lock/Normal mode?

The following procedure applies to a CeCi survey set up in Fixed Increment mode. If you want to view the center line (CL) in a skipped section, verify the survey file is also set up with the option Retain Skipped records in Skip Mode (View > Options > File tab).

Complete the following steps:

Place the cursor in the pipe-to-soil (P/S) field and then press <

Move

Skip/Lock/Normal

Pressing <Ctrl> <Z> toggles Skip, Lock, and Normal modes. In Skip mode, CeCi inserts (SKIP) in the Remarks field of the selected survey record.

Ctrl

> <Z> or tap

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Remarks Field

Move the cursor to the Remarks field by tapping the field or pressing the button (right arrow).

Ta p to insert it in the survey record and close the window.

Remark

Tab

to open the Remarks window. Select and then double-tap the remark

Press

Enter

to move the cursor to the P/S field.

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Beginning of skip section.

End of skip section.

Press the down arrow to move the cursor to the next station number (SN). Continue to survey to the other end of the SKIP (such as a road crossing, railroad crossing, exposed pipe, and so on).

Press <

Ctrl

> <Z> to toggle from SKIP to normal mode. Move the cursor to the

Remarks field and add another remark.

Press

Enter

and then the

down arrow

to move to the next SN and take a reading.

The survey file contains information shown in the image on the next page, including GPS coordinates when using GPS.

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86 FAQs

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Notes

AI Allegro CX User’s Guide

FAQ s 87

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88 FAQs

Page 95

Utility Software

Information in this chapter explains how to use and set up the following utility software:

• GPS Status (page 87)

• GPS Config (page 93)

• Save System (page 95)

• Set DAQ Registry Keys (page 96)

GPS Status

Use GPS Status (Figure C-1) to perform any of the following tasks:

• view current GPS data, such as number of satellites in view, GPS coordinates,

amount of time since the last GPS fix, and current GPS time.

• enable the

• set a

• change COM port and baud rate settings for a second GPS receiver (dual GPS).

• set up the Allegro to use the PPS timing signal received by the internal GPS module

• copy GPS coordinates to the system clipboard or an opened PTab spreadsheet file.

Display Format

degrees).

instead of a second GPS receiver.

Offset

option to view the distance between two points.

Beep

option if you want the Allegro to beep when GPS readings update.

for GPS coordinates (degrees and minutes or decimal

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Receiving GPS

PDOP: 6.4000 VDOP: 5.8000 HDOP: 2.7000 TDOP: 0.0000

GPS Status

DOP Values

GPS Time

1:11:49 PM PZ

3 Satellites in view

+30.43359947

-97.75912476  (11:00)

Age of Fix

GPS Coordinates

Number of satellites being tracked

To start GPS Status, double-tap the GpsStatus icon on the Allegro desktop to display the

Gps Statu s

window shown below. See Table C-1 on page 88 for additional information.

NOTE: If the Allegro is unable to open the COM port, the message Unable to open GPS

port COM3 (-2,317) displays. Exit and then restart GPS Status to allow the Allegro to open

the port. The value shown in parentheses is an internal code used by AI for troubleshooting purposes.

Figure C-1. GPS Status

Table C-1. GPS Status Field Descriptions

Field Description

Satellites Current number of satellites tracked by the GPS receiver display

in this status line. If using dual-GPS, status line displays the number of satellites as

#/# Satellites in view

. The first number applies to the external GPS receiver, the second number applies to the internal GPS receiver.

Three (3) satellites are required for coordinate calculations. Four (4) satellites are required for calculating a 3D position (latitude, longitude, and elevation). The more satellites tracked, the higher accuracy of the GPS receiver.

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Table C-1. GPS Status Field Descriptions (continued)

Field Description

GPS status Status line may include any of the following messages:

• Receiving GPS

• Initializing

• Waiting

Information about the serial connection displays in parentheses during the startup process, such as

Initializing (V 236).

shows a GPS status byte (V or FF) and the number of received characters. GPS status bytes (V and FF) indicate whether or not the receiver is receiving GPS packets. packets received and

indicates no GPS packets received.

indicates valid GPS

If received characters is zero (0) or does not increase, verify the GPS receiver is securely connected to the Allegro and communication settings are correct (COM port and baud rate).

GPS coordinates Shows longitude, latitude, and elevation coordinates received

from a minimum of 3 satellites.

Coordinates update every second. With a clear view of the sky, GPS accuracy without differential correction is about 10 meters (32.8 feet). Sub-meter accuracy is reported after applying differential correction when using a second GPS receiver (dual GPS), such as the Trimble GPS Pathfinder Pro XR.

DOP values DOP (dilution of precision) values identify the accuracy of GPS

readings. When a DOP value is zero (0), the GPS receiver does not report the value. When the value is between 1 and 3, GPS accuracy is good.

PDOP

refers to position dilution of precision; vertical dilution of precision; of precision; and

TDOP

HDOP

refers to time dilution of precision.

refers to horizontal dilution

VDOP

refers to

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Table C-1. GPS Status Field Descriptions (continued)

Field Description

Age of fix Shows the time since the last GPS satellite fix.

Age of fix

appears only when the GPS satellite signal is lost. It appears ten seconds after losing the satellite signal. Information displays in the following manner:

• When age is less than 10 seconds, field is empty.

• When age is less than 1 minute, number of seconds

display as

nn sec

, such as

35 sec

• When age is less than 60 minutes, number of minutes

and seconds display as

mm:ss

, such as

12:14

• When age is undetermined, an asterisk (*) displays.

GPS time GPS time displays when a GPS time signal is received and the

Offset

option is disabled.

Updates display every second when GPS time is available. GPS time displays in 24-hour format and may include the suffix

letters time signal is being received.

and/or Z. P indicates a PPS (one pulse-per-second)

indicates a GPS time packet is

being received.

Offset

When GPS time is unavailable or the GPS time signal is more than 10 minutes old, this area of the GPS Status window is empty. When

Offset

is enabled, offset values (such as 2, 1, 5) or

asterisks (*, *, *) display instead of GPS time.

Offset

shows the distance between two points. To use tap

Offset

and then move to a different location. Offset values

Offset

display inside parentheses and are calculated as feet or miles. For example, with an offset of (1, 2, 3):

• 1 is the east-west offset (W positive).

• 2 is the north-south offset (N positive).

• 3 is the vertical offset.

An offset distance higher than 0.1 degree (about six miles) displays as asterisks inside parentheses (*,*,*). When

Offset

enabled, GPS time does not display.

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Table C-1. GPS Status Field Descriptions (continued)

Field Description

Beep If you want the Allegro to beep each time GPS readings update,

tap

Beep

to enable the option.

Options Tap

receiver (dual GPS):

Copy Tap

opened PTab spreadsheet file.

PTab Tap

opened PTab file.

Options

to set the following parameters for a second GPS

• Select a COM port and baud rate.

• Ta p

Read PPS from Internal GPS

if you want to use the

Allegro internal GPS module for the PPS timing signal.

• Select a GPS display format (

Decimal degrees

Copy

to copy coordinates to the system clipboard or an

PTab

to paste GPS coordinates in an active cell of an

Degrees and Minutes

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GPS Status Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys listed in the following table (Table C-2) are an alternate method for using certain commands in AI-DVM. Use the Allegro keypad to run any of the following commands.

Table C-2. AI-DVM Shortcut Keys with Touchscreen Disabled

Command Shortcut Keys Description

Navigating GPS Status Software

Enable/Disable Read PPS from Internal GPS

Apply / Cancel Changes

Move cursor to Read PPS from

Ok / Cancel Move cursor to <Ok> or <Cancel>

Press <Tab> to move cursor from one field to another.

Press <Enter> to open or close a drop-down list.

Press <Up/Down Arrows> to move cursor in a drop-down list; press <Enter> to select an option in a drop-down list.

Internal GPS in Options and then press to enable or disable the option.

and then press <Enter>. Ok applies changes, Cancel cancels changes.

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Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual