Kaye RF ValProbe User guide

Validation

Amphenol

Advanced Sensors

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SENSO

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RF ValProbe®

User’s Manual

Kaye RF ValPro

R NOD

M5010 Rev. G

April 2014

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RF ValProbe®

Wireless Thermal Validation System

User’s Manual

M5010 Rev. G
April 2014

mphenol

Advanced Sensors

Copyright © 2014 Amphenol Thermometrics, Inc.

967 Windfall Road

St. Marys, PA 15857-3333, USA

Web: www.amphenol-sensors.com

Contents

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

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

1.1.1 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1.2 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1.3 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1.4 The Kaye RF ValProbe Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

1.1.5 Kaye RF ValProbe Temperature/Humidity Loggers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.1.6 The Logger Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.1.6aResetting the Battery Capacity Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

1.2 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2.1 Calibration Data Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2.2 Verifying Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2.3 Required Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

1.2.3aTemperature Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.2.3bHumidity Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.3 Setting Up the RF ValProbe System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

1.3.1 Setting Up the Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

1.3.2 Connecting an External Sensor and Auxiliary Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

1.3.3 Setting Up the Loggers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

1.3.4 Logger Installation Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

1.3.5 What’s Next? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

2.2 PC Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

2.3 Installing RF ValProbe Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

2.3.1 Installation for a Network Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

2.3.1aSetting up Site Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

2.3.1bEstablishing Site Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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Contents

2.3.1cCompleting Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

2.3.2 Installation for a Standalone Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

2.4 Starting the RF ValProbe System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

2.5 Creating User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

2.5.1 Creating a New System Administrator Account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

2.5.2 Creating Operator Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

2.5.3 Printing the User List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

2.5.4 Selecting Site Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

2.5.5 Selecting a Communications Option and Establishing Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

2.5.1 Setting Up the USB Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

2.5.2 Setting Up the Ethernet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

2.7 Accessing the Kaye RF ValProbe Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

2.7.1 Tabs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

2.7.2 Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

2.7.3 Screen-Level Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Appendix A. Specifications

A.1 RF ValProbe System Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.1 RF System Operating Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.2 RF Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.3 Number of Loggers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.4 Transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.5 PC Update Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.6 Maximum Network Form Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.1.7 Data Retention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

A.2 Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

A.2.1 Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

A.2.2 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

A.2.3 Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

A.3 Logger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

A.3.1 Measurement Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

A.3.1aSensor Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

A.3.2 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

iv RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Contents

A.3.2aBody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2bExternal Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2cLogger Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2dBase Station Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2eTemperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2fRH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A.3.2gAuxiliary Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.2hBattery Life (Varies ±10%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.3 Accuracy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.3aTemperature-Validation (External Sensor): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.3bRelative Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.3cInputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.3dSensor Sampling Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

A.3.4 Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A.3.5 Logger Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A.3.6 Logger Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A.3.7 Logger Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A.4 Environmental/EMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.4.1 EMC- EN 61326. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.4.1aBase Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.4.1bLogger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.5 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.5.1 Logger Storage Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.5.2 Logger Operating Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

A.5.3 Base Station Operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual v

Contents

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

B.2 Installing the OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

B.3 Locating Base Stations on Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

B.4 Setting up a Communication Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

B.5 Setting up a New Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

B.5.1 Viewing Sensor Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

B.5.2 Optimizing Network Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

B.6 Viewing Measurement Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

B.7 Setting Up the OPC Test Client . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

C.1 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

C.2 Battery Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

C.2.1 What do the Markings Mean? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

C.2.2 The Risks and Your Role in Reducing Them . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

vi RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 Unpacking

Unpack the Kaye RF ValProbe® Loggers and Base Station carefully and inspect them for
any damage that may have occurred during shipment. If there is shipping damage, notify
the carrier immediately. Verify that the following are present:

• Kaye RF ValProbe Base Station and power supply

• USB Cable

• Power cord

• Kaye RF ValProbe Loggers and calibration certificates

• Kaye RF ValProbe Software Package

1.1.2 Safety Information

Use this instrument only as specified in this User's Guide.

• The protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if the equipment is used in

a manner not specified by Kaye.

• Do not use this equipment in environments other than those listed in the User's Guide.

1.1.3 Overview

The Kaye RF ValProbe system is a wireless thermal validation system that collects
temperature and humidity data. The Kaye RF ValProbe system is designed for accurate,
convenient, and reliable process validation of environmental chambers and storage areas.
These applications include stability chambers, freezers, refrigerators and warehouses. A

2.4-GHz RF mesh network and multiple-redundant data storage support communications
and storage of critical validation data, while safeguards guarantee data integrity, storage
and compliance with regulatory requirements.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.3 Overview (cont.)

The system consists of Kaye RF ValProbe Loggers, a Kaye RF ValProbe Base Station, and
Windows-based software for programming and reading the Loggers, calibrating Loggers,
verifying their calibration, and generating reports (see Figure 1 below).

Data from multiple wireless Loggers is combined in a single file from which reports are
generated. These reports are designed for implementation of 21 CFR Part 11 requirements
for electronic records. Users can customize the reports by defining process cycles and
specifying cycle-based calculations.

Figure 1: The Kaye RF ValProbe System

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.4 The Kaye RF ValProbe Base Station

The RF ValProbe Base Station acts as the communications link between the wireless
Loggers and the RF ValProbe software on the computer. When connected to the computer
via a standard USB, Ethernet, or USB-Ethernet adapter, the Base Station programs, reads
and collects data from up to 100 Loggers per study. Its design ensures reliable transfer of
critical data. If the PC is not present or currently running, the Base Station can store data
from up to a maximum of 100 Loggers or 200 sensors (100 temperature and 100
humidity).

Powered by a power supply rated from 100-240 VAC at 50/60 Hz, the Base Station
(shown in Figure 2 below) includes both a USB port and an Ethernet connection. (The
connections are mutually exclusive.)

Figure 2: RF ValProbe Base Station

CAUTION!

Use only the Kaye power supply (Kaye #201-172) provided with your
RF ValProbe. The use of non-factory power supplies may damage the
equipment and will void your warranty.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.5 Kaye RF ValProbe Temperature/Humidity Loggers

The wireless RF ValProbe Loggers use an external temperature sensor.

• The humidity sensor covers a range from 10% to 90% RH, with accuracy of ±2.0% at

25°C.

• For validation, the external temperature sensor maintains accuracy of ±0.1°C from

0°C to + 60°C; below freezing, the sensor is accurate to ±0.2°C from -22°C to 0°C,
and to ±0.5°C, from -80°C to -22°C. (See Appendix A for full accuracy
specifications.). The external bendable temperature sensor maintains accuracy of
±0.1°C from 0°C to 140°C. Two and five-channel temperature loggers are accurate to
±0.1°C from -80°C to +130°C.

Users can select 4/20 mA or 0-10V inputs, both with contact closure sensing. To set up an
external sensor or auxiliary inputs, see page 14.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.5 Kaye RF ValProbe Temperature/Humidity Loggers (cont.)

Figure 3: The RF ValProbe Logger with External Sensor

Each Logger can record up to 10,000 readings per sensor or input; the data is sent to the
Base Station and stored simultaneously in the Logger and Base Station memories. When
prompted by the RF ValProbe software, the Loggers send this data to the computer via the
Base Station for reading into a study, report creation and data calculation.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 5

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.5 Kaye RF ValProbe Temperature/Humidity Loggers (cont.)

You can attach auxiliary inputs (contact, voltage or current) into the socket on top of the
probe. If you select a Logger model with an external probe, the probe is attached to the
Logger through an outlet on the side. To turn the Logger on, slide the power switch
(shown in Figure 4 on the next page) to the right.

Two LEDs — the green Power and the yellow Link light — indicate Logger status.

• When you press the Status button, the green Power light appears to show that the

Logger is receiving sufficient power. (To use the Status button and Power signal to
reset battery capacity, go to page 8.)

• The yellow Link signal passes through four stages as a user presses and holds the

Status button:

1. Its initial signal is a slow blink before it attempts to connect to the network.

2. The blink becomes more rapid as the Logger scans the area for a network (Base

Station or Logger) connection.

3. A double blink indicates that the Logger has linked and is transmitting, either to
another Logger or to a Base Station.

4. Finally, a solid yellow light indicates that the Logger has made two separate
connections (the maximum possible for a Logger) to the network.

Note: In a given network with more than one Logger, there will always be one Logger

that has only one link, and consequently stays at the double blink stage.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

Network ID Wheel

Power Switch

Battery

Compartment

+

+

1.1.6 The Logger Batteries

The Logger is powered by two 1.5 V, AA lithium batteries (Kaye #200-084), shipped with
the Logger. To replace the batteries, first shut off the Logger by sliding the power switch
(shown in Figure 4 below) to the left. Then open the sliding panel on the back of the
Logger and replace the batteries in the compartment shown in Figure 4 below. Do not turn
the Logger back on (sliding the power switch to the right) until you have replaced the
compartment cover.

CAUTION!

Figure 4: Logger Battery Compartment, Power Switch and Network ID Wheel

If it becomes necessary to replace a Logger battery, use only a Kaye
#200-084 1.5 V lithium battery. Use of any other battery will void your
Logger warranty.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.1.6 The Logger Batteries (cont.)

Battery life is affected by a number of factors, including sample rate, temperature, Logger
position in the network, and hours of use. In addition, individual battery characteristics
and capacity vary inherently from one battery to another by up to 10%. The RF ValProbe
software tracks each Logger's battery life to within 10% of a potential low-voltage
occurrence to help prevent interrupted or incomplete studies. When determining the
battery life remaining, the software bases its calculations on the assumption that the
battery can supply a predictable amount of energy (mAh) over the temperature range.

The battery life calculation is accurate when a Logger is used exclusively for studies at or
above room temperature, or exclusively for studies below room temperature. Kaye
therefore recommends that you change the battery when switching between temperature
ranges above room temperature and those below room temperature.

A low battery warning is issued when the remaining battery life is below the warning
percentage specified in the RF ValProbe software. The low battery warning is issued until
you replace the Logger battery and reset its battery life to 100%. If you do not specify a
percentage, the low battery warning is set to 10%. Kaye recommends that you replace the
battery when there is 10% battery life remaining.

• If the battery is used up or is removed, the study setup and data, as well as the

calibration information, are maintained in non-volatile memory inside the Logger.

1.1.6a Resetting the Battery Capacity Setting

You can reset the battery capacity from the Logger itself. Once you have installed the new
batteries, press and hold the Status button on the front of the logger while you turn the
logger power switch on. Wait for the Power (green) light to blink five times, and then
release the button. The battery capacity has been reset.

8 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.2 Calibration

1.2.1 Calibration Data Storage

Calibration data, including calibration offsets, and when the calibration was performed
and by whom, are stored in the Logger in non-volatile memory. The data remains intact
even if the battery is exchanged.

1.2.2 Verifying Calibration

The Kaye RF ValProbe software allows you to verify Logger calibration at one or two
setpoints. For Humidity/Temperature Loggers, each sensor type must be verified
independently. You may want to verify that the Loggers are within their specification
before running a study; however, you do not need to recalibrate them. Since the RF
ValProbe is a self-contained instrument, the sensor and instrument errors are accounted for
during factory calibration.

The following section provides an overview of verifying Logger calibration. The online
Help that comes with the Kaye RF ValProbe software provides step-by-step instructions
on calibration procedures.

Note: In the RF ValProbe software, you can select either manual or automatic

calibration verification. If you select automatic calibration verification, you will
not need to enter stability or deviation criteria; however, you will still need to
connect your computer to a Kaye IRTD temperature probe and to a temperature
bath via the Kaye Calibration Interface (included with the IRTD). You will also
need to enter setpoints, and to click the Start Calibration button.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 9

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.2.3 Required Equipment

When verifying sensor calibration, you must consider the measurement uncertainty of the
equipment you are using in combination with the uncertainty of the equipment used by
Kaye to calibrate the Loggers at the factory.

For example, if you verify calibration for a Logger's humidity sensor using a calibration
chamber with a measurement uncertainty of ±1.5% RH, and the Kaye chamber has a
measurement uncertainty of ±1.0% RH, you may obtain a deviation greater than the 2.0%
RH specified by the factory as the accuracy of the sensor.

The Certificate of Calibration that was shipped with each Logger provides detailed
information about the equipment used by the factory to calibrate the Loggers, including
the measurement uncertainty. (Auxiliary inputs are shipped with additional certification
documents.) The equipment required to accurately verify calibration for each sensor type
is listed on the next page.

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Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.2.3a Temperature Sensors

In order to verify that the temperature sensors in the Loggers are within the 0.1°C
calibration accuracy, the total system measurement uncertainty for the calibration
equipment must be better than 33mK (0.033°C) in order to achieve a 3:1 measurement
uncertainty ratio. The following equipment is required to perform calibration verification:

• IRTD model 400 (25mK). The IRTD 400 (M2801) temperature measurement standard

is a self-contained measurement system providing temperature data directly to the
Kaye RF ValProbe software during temperature sensor calibration and calibration
verification. The measurement accuracy is NIST-traceable to 0.025ºC, with a range of
–196ºC to 420ºC.The IRTD provides a traceable standard that is used to calibrate
Kaye RF ValProbe Loggers and to verify Logger calibration. During the calibration
and calibration verification process, the Kaye RF ValProbe software automatically
reads and monitors the value of the IRTD probe.

Note: During calibration, the IRTD remains connected (via an RS-232C port) to the PC

running RF ValProbe software, and to the temperature chamber or bath. It does
not link directly to the RF ValProbe.

• Temperature bath or chamber with the following stability and uniformity

specifications:

Table 1: Temperature Bath (Chamber) Specifications

Bath Stability Bath Uniformity

7mK 7mK

Kaye recommends using the CTR-40 or CTR-80 liquid calibration baths.

1.2.3b Humidity Sensors

In order to verify the RH sensors meet the calibration accuracy specification, the RH
Humidity Calibrator must have an error equal to or better than ±1%. To perform
calibration verification, Kaye recommends a Humidity Calibrator with ±1% accuracy or
better, such as the Kaye Humilab.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 11

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

Power

USB

Ethernet

1.3 Setting Up the RF ValProbe System

Setting up an RF ValProbe system for operation involves four steps:

1. Installing the RF ValProbe software for validation, or the OPC Server for monitoring
applications.

Note: To install RF ValProbe validation software, refer to page 24. You must install

validation software before setting up the Base Station and Loggers.

To install an OPC Server for real-time monitoring, refer to Appendix B.

2. Setting up the Base Station

3. Connecting any External Sensors or Auxiliary Inputs

4. Setting up and positioning the Loggers

5. Starting the RF ValProbe software

1.3.1 Setting Up the Base Station

Starting the Base Station requires plugging in the power supply and establishing USB or
Ethernet connections. The rear of the Base Station appears similar to Figure 5 below. The
newer Base Stations do not have the USB port, but a high-speed USB-Ethernet cable,
included in your RF ValProbe, will connect the Ethernet port on the Base Station to the
USB port on the PC.

Figure 5: Base Station Connections (old and new)

12 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.3.1 Setting Up the Base Station (cont.)

• To power the Base Station, insert the round barrel connector into the power input jack

of the Base Station (the input at the left shown in Figure 5 on the previous page).
Attach the power supply to the power cord.Then insert the power cord into a standard
100-240 VAC outlet. A green light next to the power outlet on the Base Station
indicates that the station is powered up.

IMPORTANT: The external power supply included with your RF ValProbe is fitted with an

AC power cord suitable for the country

of destination.

• To establish a USB connection, plug one end of the USB cable into the USB outlet in

the center of the rear shown in Figure 5 on the previous page, and plug the other end
into the USB port of your computer.

• To establish an Ethernet connection, plug one end of your Ethernet cable into the

outlet at the right of the rear panel shown in Figure 5 on the previous page. Then plug
the other end into your Ethernet connection.

• To establish a connection using the adapter, connect the crossover cable to the

USB-Ethernet adapter. Plug the crossover cable to the outlet at the right of the rear
panel shown in Figure 5 on the previous page. Then plug the adapter to the USB port
on your PC.

Once you have attached the connection and set up the loggers (see the next page), start the
RF ValProbe software and click the Preferences tab. The Preferences window opens
(Figure 16 on page 37). Follow the directions from page 36 to page 48 to set up your Base
Station settings.

IMPORTANT: You can only be connected via either USB or Ethernet -- not both. If you

want to establish an Ethernet connection, first connect your Base Station
via USB, and then switch your connection to the Ethernet, as discussed on
page 40.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 13

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

X

X

X

X

+

+

4-20 mA

_

External Switch -

XTMR

+

External

_

Power

Supply

Dry Contact

-

User Interface Connector

1.3.2 Connecting an External Sensor and Auxiliary Inputs

If any of your Loggers are designed for use with an external sensor, that sensor will have
been shipped in the same package as your Logger.

• To connect the sensor to the Logger, simply slide the connection end of the sensor into

the hole on the right side of the Logger.

• To disconnect the sensor from the Logger, pull back the connection sleeve (the

grooved part visible outside the connection) and you can pull out the sensor.

CAUTION!

You connect auxiliary inputs (4-20 mA, 0-10V or contact closure) via the terminal at the
top of the Logger shown in Figure 6 below. Figure 7 below illustrates wiring connections
for the auxiliary inputs.

When handling external sensors, avoid bending the sensor near
either the tip or connector ends. Repeated bending will damage the
sensor.

Figure 6: Auxiliary Input Terminal

Figure 7: Interface Connector Wiring Diagram

14 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.3.2 Connecting an External Sensor and Auxiliary Inputs (cont.)

Note: For a 2 or 5-channel Logger, the sensors are prewired to terminal blocks inside

the Logger. To replace or reattach a sensor, you must remove the cover and
retaining bar, remove the terminal block for the existing sensor, attach the
terminal block of the new sensor, and replace the retaining bar and cover.

1.3.3 Setting Up the Loggers

When you are setting up the Loggers, you must first be sure that they are switched on, and
that they have the same network ID (from 0 to 9 or A to F) as the Base Station. (For
instance, all Loggers must have the network ID “5” if the Base Station has the ID “5”.)

IMPORTANT: If you have more than one Base Station, each one must

be configured with a

unique network ID.

To switch on the Logger, see the back of the Logger above the battery panel, as shown in
Figure 4 on page 7. Slide the switch below the network ID wheel to the right to turn on the
logger.

Note: All Base Stations and Loggers are shipped with an initial Network ID of 0. To

change the Base Station Network ID, install the RF ValProbe software and refer to
“Selecting a Communications Option and Establishing Preferences” on page 36.

If you need to adjust the Logger’s network ID, use a small screwdriver to turn the arrow in
the middle of the network ID wheel in Figure 4 on page 7. Be sure the arrow points to the
appropriate ID number. (You can choose from numbers 0 through 9, and letters A through
F.)

Note: You must change the Logger network ID before you switch on the Logger. If you

have already switched the Logger on, switch it off and then turn it back on so the
Logger can read the correct ID.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 15

Chapter 1. Setting Up the RF ValProbe

1.3.4 Logger Installation Guidelines

You can now position the Loggers. Each Logger must be no more than 300 ft. distant from
the Base Station and the other Loggers. Kaye offers several recommendations for logger
placement:

• Install the Loggers at least one to two feet above the ground or floor. For better RF

transmission, place them as high as possible. If possible, raise or lower the Base
Station and Loggers above or below walls or any separation.

• Point the Logger antenna upwards for best results.

• Do not position the Loggers directly above or below each other. Stagger their

positions for better transmission.

• If Loggers are placed at different heights, make sure that they are within antenna range

(within 300 ft. from the Base Station or another logger). The RF signal is transmitted
in an arc, with maximum signal strength occurring in the area 45° above and below
the tip of the antenna.

• Be aware that metal surroundings can interfere with RF transmission; the Logger may

transmit, but the signal will be weaker. Shorten the transmission distance accordingly.

• Do not install Loggers next to a cordless phone base or other 2.4 GHz transmission

device.

• Do not install Loggers on a vibrating surface.

• Do not place Loggers where the temperature is outside their rated operating range.

IMPORTANT: If you are using Loggers with internal sensors, be sure the vents on the side

remain uncovered. If the vents are covered, the sensors cannot provide
correct readings.

1.3.5 What’s Next?

Once you have connected the Base Station and positioned the Loggers, proceed to Chapter
2 to use the RF ValProbe software and begin taking measurements.

16 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe

Software

2.1 Introduction

Before using the Kaye RF ValProbe system, you have to install the RF ValProbe software
on your PC and perform some basic system administration tasks.

The RF ValProbe software includes a Password Maintenance utility that allows a user with
System Administrator permission to create and maintain user accounts and set site
options.

A default System Administrator account is included with the software. You use this
account to initially log in to the Password Maintenance utility and create your own System
Administrator account. The default account is deleted once your own System
Administrator account is created. You can then use your own account to perform all your
system administration tasks.

In this chapter you:

• Install the RF ValProbe software, configured for network or local applications

• Start the program and log in to the Password Maintenance utility using the default

System Administrator account

• Set site options

• Create your System Administrator account

• Create Supervisor and Operator accounts

• Print the active user list

• Select the Communications Option and other Preferences

• Check system functioning on the Hardware screen

• Access the RF ValProbe online Help

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 17

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.2 PC Requirements

To run the RF ValProbe Windows-based software, your PC should meet the following
minimum requirements:

• Pentium or equivalent microprocessor with 1 GHz processor speed and at least 1 GB

RAM

• At least 40 GB hard disk space available

• Microsoft Windows XP SP3 or Windows 7 Professional 32 bit or 64 bit

• Microsoft Office 2007 or 2010 (32 bit only) for reporting

• One unused USB port for communicating with the Base Station or an Ethernet

connection

• Windows printer with graphical printer capability

• VGA color monitor with resolution at least 800 X 600.

If you are performing a calibration:

• One 9-pin serial port for IRTD communication, and the Kaye Calibration Interface

(supplied with the IRTD), or an additional USB port with USB-serial adapter

18 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3 Installing RF ValProbe Software

In addition to standalone operation, Kaye RF ValProbe offers the option of configuring the
software for network capabilities. The RF ValProbe data files can thus be saved to and
reported on from a central network location, rather than stored on each individual PC's
hard drive. In addition, by enabling network capabilities, the RF ValProbe software will
utilize one central password database for managing user names and passwords. You can
then manage passwords for all your users in one place, rather than having a different
password database on each PC running the Kaye RF ValProbe software.

Note: Network installations may not use the distribution set. Instead, users must create a

customized network folder.

• If you are installing Kaye RF ValProbe to a network drive (from which you will install

it to individual PCs), proceed to “Installation for a Network Application” on the next
page.

• If you are installing Kaye RF ValProbe to an individual PC, proceed to “Installation

for a Standalone Application” on page 24.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 19

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3.1 Installation for a Network Application

1. Be sure the network drive is mapped on your PC. On the drive, identify or create a
network location (folder) to hold the RF ValProbe installation and data files. This
location will also provide a central database for managing user names and passwords.
The folder should be protected against data deletion.

2. Insert the RF ValProbe CD into your CD-ROM drive. If the installation does not
automatically begin, complete the following steps:

• Click Start on the Windows task bar, and then click Run.

• Click Browse. From the Browse dialog box, select your CD-ROM drive, click

Setup.exe, and then click Open.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the installation.

4. Click on the appropriate installation path to install Kaye RF ValProbe to the network

drive.

5. Once installation has completed, the Kaye RF ValProbe Initialization program will run
automatically. The Kaye RF ValProbe splash screen will appear, followed by the two
System Administrator Site Options screens -- Policies and Preferences.

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Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3.1a Setting up Site Options

When you start up the program for the first time, you will first set up the System
Administrator Site Options, which provide more flexibility while running the RF ValProbe
software. You can enable any combination that your site supports.

• Set a login timer for user identification. The login timer allows users, after initial

identification, to enter only their password if user identification is within the preset
time limit. When this option is enabled, the login timer can be set from 1 to 15
minutes.

Note: If you enable this option, the Time Interval readout displays to the right of that

option, and the timer is initially set to 5 minutes. You can set the timer from 1 to 15
minutes using the spin buttons.

• Require minimum-length passwords for all user accounts, from 6 to 16 characters.

Note: If you select this option, use the spin buttons to set the requirement from 6 to 16

characters. The password expiration requirement can be set from 1 to 366 days
with the spin buttons. Click the spin buttons once to move in 1-day increments, or
click and hold to move in 10-day increments.

• Set passwords to expire after a number of days, up to 366. Users will be prompted to

change their password once their current password has expired. By default, passwords
are set to expire after 180 days. The software will display the password expiration date
to the user at login when there are five days or less until their password expires.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 21

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3.1a Setting up Site Options (cont.)

• Disable user accounts after 3 unsuccessful login attempts. This option will disable a

user account if there are three consecutive PC login failures for the same user ID. If a
user's account is disabled, the System Administrator must enable the account and
assign a new temporary password. This option does not affect logins from the RF
ValProbe instrument panel.

• Display User ID during entry. By default, the user ID is shown to the user when

logging in. Clearing this option will replace the user ID characters with asterisks
(*****).

• Allow Operators to change Preferences. Preferences are workstation defaults that

specify the temperature units (Celsius or Fahrenheit), the COM port, and when to
issue low battery warnings. Any changes made to the system preferences are effective
immediately, and all setups created after the preferences have been changed will
reflect these new settings. If this option is not enabled, the System Administrator is
responsible for changing preferences

• Disable the password system. User IDs and passwords will not be required to use the

software.

Note: If you select this option, the Kaye RF ValProbe system will not enable compliance

with 21CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records.

Click the check box next to any option that you want to enable. An X appears in the check
box when the option is enabled. Click the check box again if you want to disable it. The
check box will be blank. Once your site options have been set, click on the Preferences
tab.

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Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3.1b Establishing Site Preferences

The Preferences tab has the following settings that can be initially set for all users who
install Kaye RF ValProbe software from the network:

• Select temperature units (Celsius or Fahrenheit) for all temperature calculations

• Enter the Company Name.

• Specify the data directory, which will be the default location for storing and retrieving

data files and storing the password database. Navigate to the location on the network
you identified to store the data files. This folder should be protected against file
deletion.

• Allow users to specify the lethality criteria for calculation in reports.

Select the desired options, and click

OK.

2.3.1c Completing Installation

1. Click Finish to complete the initialization program.

2. Return to the Windows task bar. Click

ValProbe.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation to the first PC. Once you
have completed installing Kaye RF ValProbe to the network PC, and setting up user
accounts, you can install Kaye RF ValProbe from the network to other PCs.

Programs, then Kaye RF ValProbe, and then RF

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 23

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.3.2 Installation for a Standalone Application

1. Insert the RF ValProbe CD into your CD-ROM drive.

2. If the installation does not automatically begin, complete the following steps:

• Click Start on the Windows task bar, and then click Run.

• Click Browse. From the Browse dialog box, select your CD-ROM drive, click

Setup.exe, and then click Open.

3. Click on the appropriate installation path to install Kaye RF ValProbe to your PC.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the installation.

5. Once installation has completed, the Kaye RF ValProbe Initialization program will run

automatically. The Kaye RF ValProbe splash screen will appear, followed by the two
System Administrator Site Options screens -- Policies and Preferences. Select the
desired Site Options (as discussed on page 21 through page 23), and click

OK.

6. Click

Finish to complete the initialization program.

7. Return to the Windows task bar.

8. Click

Start, then Programs, then Kaye RF ValProbe, and then Client Setup.

9. Click on the appropriate installation path to install the client to your PC.

10. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation.

24 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.4 Starting the RF ValProbe System

To start up the RF ValProbe system for the first time:

1. Power up the Base Station, having connected it via USB to your PC.

2. Position and switch on the Loggers, with any external sensors or auxiliary inputs

connected.

3. To open RF ValProbe validation software for the first time, click

ValProbe>RF ValProbe.

Start >Programs>RF

4. The Identification Required dialog box (shown in Figure 8 below) appears.

Figure 8: Identification Required Box

5. Enter

Kaye in the User ID text box.

Kaye is the default System Administrator user ID. The User ID text box is case sensitive,
so make sure you enter the default user ID exactly as it appears here.

Note: To access the Password Maintenance utility after your initial login, click

>Programs>RF ValProbe>RF ValProbe Utilities.

Then click Site Options, and enter

Start

your System Administrator user ID and password in the System Administrator Log
In dialog box.

6. Enter

411 in the Current Password text box.

411 is the default System Administrator password.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 25

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.4 Starting RF ValProbe (cont.)

7. Click OK. The Password Maintenance Add New User screen appears, as shown in
Figure 9 below.

Figure 9: Password Maintenance

Add New User Screen

You are now ready to create your own System Administrator account and add users to the
system. The next section provides instruction on creating your new System Administrator
account from this screen and adding additional users.

26 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5 Creating User Accounts

The RF ValProbe software is designed for two levels of users:

System Administrator

system preferences, backs up and restores user information, and views, prints, and
maintains the audit trail. The System Administrator also performs Logger calibration.

Operator

verification. Operators can also change system preferences if the System Administrator
has enabled the Allow Operators to change Preferences site option.

In this section you:

- Programs Loggers, reads Loggers, creates reports, and performs calibration

- Creates and maintains user accounts, sets site options and

• Create a new System Administrator account.

• Create Operator accounts.

2.5.1 Creating a New System Administrator Account

The first task you must perform when you log in for the first time is to create a System
Administrator account. Once this is accomplished, you can add users (Operators or other
System Administrators) to the system and set site options.Once your System
Administrator account is created, the default account you used to log on to the system
(Kaye/411) will be deleted. You will then be logged in under the user name you create.

Note: It is good practice to establish more than one individual as a System

Administrator. This way, the Password Maintenance utility functions can still be
accessed, even if one of the System Administrators is unavailable.

The next time you log in to the Password Maintenance utility you will need to enter your
own System Administrator user ID and password. The Password Maintenance utility is
able to identify you by name using your unique user ID and password combination.

Note: If you want to use the Kaye RF ValProbe software to program Loggers, read

Loggers and generate reports, create an Operator account for yourself using a
different name and user ID than your System Administrator account.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 27

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.1 Creating a New System Administrator Account (cont.)

To create a new System Administrator account:

1. The

Password Maintenance Add New User screen should be displayed after you logged

in to the system for the first time using the default System Administrator account.
Enter your name (up to 32 characters) in the Name field.

The name you enter here displays in the active user list. User names must be unique.
Once you have added your name to the active user list, you can never enter the same
name again. Your name is associated with the unique user ID/password combination
that you enter in steps 2 and 3. You use this user ID/password combination to log in to
the Password Maintenance utility. The user ID and password are case sensitive.

2. Enter your new System Administrator identification in the

User ID field. Your user ID

can be any combination of numbers and characters, up to a maximum of 16. A user ID
may not be used by more than one active account.

3. Enter your new System Administrator password in the Password field. Your password
can be any combination of numbers and characters, up to a maximum of 16. For
security reasons, it is preferable to use more than six characters or numbers.

4. Enter your password again in the

Reenter Password field.

At this point you should record your user ID and password for future reference. You
will need them to log in to the Password Maintenance utility. Because this is the first
System Administrator account created, the system assumes that this is your account,
and you will not need to change the password. However, for any additional System
Administrator accounts created, the user will need to change the password when
logging in for the first time.

5. The permission level is set to System Administrator by default. Click OK.

Password Maintenance screen (shown in Figure 10 on the next page) appears.

The
Your new System Administrator account name appears in the active user list.

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Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.1 Creating a New System Administrator Account (cont.)

Figure 10: Password Maintenance Screen

2.5.2 Creating Operator Accounts

Now that you have created your own System Administrator account, you are ready to add
user accounts. All Password Maintenance activity you now perform will be recorded in
the audit trail under your user name.

When you create user accounts, each user's name is added to the active user list. You
assign a unique user ID for each user and a temporary password. The user will change the
password when they first log in.

To create Operator accounts:

1. On the Password Maintenance screen, click the Users menu, and then click

User

. The Password Maintenance Add New User screen (shown in Figure 11 on the

Create

next page) appears.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 29

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.2 Creating Operator Accounts (cont.)

Figure 11: Password Maintenance Add New User Screen

2. Enter the new user name (up to 32 characters) in the Name field.

The user name is associated with the user ID/password combination that you enter in steps
3 and 4. The user ID/password combination is used to identify the user to the RF ValProbe
software. The name you enter here appears in the active user list.

Note: User names must be unique. Once a name has been used, it cannot be used again.

You should keep a separate record of all user names that you assign to avoid
future problems.

3. Enter the new user identification in the

User ID field. The user ID can be any

combination of numbers and characters, up to a maximum of 16. The user ID and
password are case sensitive. A user ID may not be used by more than one active
account.

4. Enter the new user password in the

Password field. The password can be any

combination of numbers and characters, up to a maximum of 16. The user will change
this password when they first log in to the Kaye RF ValProbe software.

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Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.2 Creating Operator Accounts (cont.)

5. Enter the password again in the Reenter Password field.
At this point you should record the new user ID and password. You will need to
supply this information to each new user. A user ID/password combination is required
any time a user:

• Programs and/or reads Loggers

• Verifies sensor calibration

• Creates reports

• Moves or copies data files

• Changes preferences (if the System Administrator has enabled the Allow Operators

to change Preferences site option)

6. Click

7. The

8. Click

Operator to set the account’s permission level.

Disable User Account option allows you to deny access to the system for this user.

For example, if you are creating an account for a user who will not need access to the
system for several months, you may want to select this option to deny access to the
user. You can de-select this feature once the user is ready to use the system (see the
Kaye RF ValProbe online Help for instructions on editing user accounts).

Select this option if you want to disable the user account.

OK.

The

Password Maintenance screen (Figure 12 on the next page) appears with the

newly added user name in the active user list.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 31

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.2 Creating Operator Accounts (cont.)

Figure 12: Password Maintenance Screen

9. Repeat steps 1 through 8 to add more users to the system.

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2.5.3 Printing the User List

All active and deleted user accounts are included in the printed list.

To print the user list:

1. On the Password Maintenance screen, click the

File menu, and then click Print Users.

The Windows Print dialog box appears.

2. Select a printer and click

OK when prompted that the user list has been printed.

Click

Print.

2.5.4 Selecting Site Options

The Password Maintenance utility provides site options that give users more flexibility
while running the Kaye RF ValProbe software. To access the site options from the
Password Maintenance screen, click
screen opens, as shown in Figure 13 below.

File >Options. The System Administrator Site Options

Figure 13: System Administrator

Site Options Screen

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 33

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.4 Selecting Site Options (cont.)

As the System Administrator, you can select options that will:

• Disable the user identification requirement.

IMPORTANT: If you disable the user identification requirement, the Kaye RF ValProbe

system does not meet FDA regulations for electronic signatures (21 CFR
Part 11).Kaye recommends that you always require user identification.

• Set passwords to expire after a number of days, up to 366. The user will be prompted

to change their password once their current password has expired. By default,
passwords are set to expire after 180 days.

• Require minimum-length passwords for all user accounts, from 1 to 16 characters.

• Disable user accounts after three unsuccessful login attempts. This option will disable

a user account if there are three consecutive login failures for the same user ID. If a
user's account is disabled, the System Administrator must enable the account and
assign a new temporary password.

• Allow Operators to change Preferences. Preferences are system defaults that specify

the temperature units, the communications port, the network ID, and when to issue
low battery warnings. Any changes made to the system preferences are effective
immediately, and all setups created after the preferences have been changed will
reflect these new settings. If this option is not enabled, the System Administrator is
responsible for changing preferences.

34 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.4 Setting Site Options (cont.)

To set site options:

1. Select the check box next to any option to enable that option. To set the number of

days until passwords expire, use the spin buttons to set the number of days in 30-day
increments, or enter a number from 1 to 366 in the box. To specify a minimum
password length, select the Require minimum password length option and use the spin
buttons to set the password requirement from 1 to 16 characters, or enter the number
directly into the box.
To disable an option, clear the associated check box.

2. Click OK. The Password Maintenance screen appears.

3. On the

File menu, click Exit to log out of the Password Maintenance utility. The RF

ValProbe Main Menu appears, as shown in Figure 14 below.

Figure 14: Kaye RF ValProbe Main Menu

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 35

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.5 Selecting a Communications Option and Establishing Preferences

The Kaye RF ValProbe Base Station is the communications link between the Kaye RF
ValProbe Loggers and your computer. After installing the Kaye RF ValProbe software and
connecting the Base Station to your PC via USB, you must select or confirm a
communications option in order for the Base Station to communicate with your PC. You
might also need to change the Network ID of your Base Station, or select the temperature
displayed (in °F or °C).

To select a communications option:

1. On the Kaye RF ValProbe Main Menu, click the Preferences tab. The

Preferences

(Figure 15 below) dialog box appears.

Change

Figure 15: Change Preferences Dialog Box

2. Enter your System Administrator user ID and password and click OK (you can use an
Operator user ID and password if you have enabled the Allow Operators to change
Preferences site option).

Preferences screen (Figure 16 on the next page) appears.

The

Note: Three items on the Preferences screen appear for information purposes only -- the

Machine ID, the Company Name and the Data Directory for backup files. These
items are not user-selectable.

36 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5 Selecting a Communications Option and Establishing

Preferences (cont.)

Figure 16: Preferences Screen

3. To select the units in which you wish to display temperature (Celsius or Fahrenheit),
click on the appropriate radio button.

Note: This selection applies to the entire RF ValProbe --both the Base Station and

Loggers.

4. If you are connecting an IRTD to the PC, click on the COM port to which you will
connect the IRTD from the pull-down list.

5. The Battery Life warning signals the user to change the battery if its life drops below a
certain percentage (from 0 to 90%). The default setting is 10%. If you want a different
percentage, use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired percentage.

6. Click on the desired communications option (USB or Ethernet) from the Base Station
radio buttons. USB is the default selection. You can use USB or Ethernet, but not both
simultaneously.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 37

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5 Selecting a Communications Option and Establishing

Preference (cont.).

•

To set up a USB connection, see below.

• To set up an Ethernet connection, go to page 40.

2.5.1 Setting Up the USB Connection

First, be sure you have selected the USB option for your Base Station on the Preferences
screen. Also, be sure you have powered up the Base Station and connected it to your PC’s
USB port before completing the following steps:

a. If you need to change the Base Station settings, click the

Settings

Figure 17 below.

button. The USB Base Station Settings window opens, as shown in

Figure 17: USB Base Station Settings

Change Base Stations

38 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.1 Setting Up the USB Connection (cont.)

b. A default network ID of 0 has been programmed into the Base Station. You can use

this ID or enter a new Network ID, from 0 to 9 or A to F.

• To obtain the programmed ID, click on the Get Network ID button. The software

obtains the programmed ID from the Base Station.

• To enter a different Network ID, use the arrow keys next to the text box.

c. Click

Note: Be sure that the ID number at the back of each Logger matches the network ID

By clicking the
the static IP address of the USB-to-Ethernet converter used in the Base Station. The
software performs this function on startup, but you may need to perform it here if, for
example, the USB cable was plugged in after startup.

OK to confirm the settings and return to the Preferences screen.

number programmed in this window.

Set USB button, you set the static IP address on your PC to correspond to

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 39

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.2 Setting Up the Ethernet Connection

Note: If you plan to use an Ethernet connection, please be sure the Ethernet cable is no

longer than 30 m to the nearest hub/switch. If you switch the Base Station to
Ethernet mode, the Base Station acquires the IP address by DHCP from your
network during startup. Please make sure that there is a DHCP Server available
before switching to Ethernet mode. After switching to Ethernet mode, the Base
Station will no longer communicate over USB. To restore USB communication,
you must establish an Ethernet connection.

If you want to switch to Ethernet operation, you must click on the

Switch to Ethernet

button, and follow the on-screen instructions. Be sure the Base Station remains connected
to the USB port until you receive specific instructions to change the connection.

Ethernet Base Station Settings window opens, similar to Figure 18 below.

The

Figure 18: Ethernet Base Stations Settings

a. To locate the Base Stations on the network, click on the

Refresh Discovery button.

The software scans the network and locates the Base Stations on the network.

b. To select and program a specific Base Station, highlight the desired Base Station in

Discovered Base Stations window and click on the Select Base Station button.

the

40 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.5.2 Setting Up the Ethernet Connection (cont.)

c. Users can either accept the network ID programmed into the Base Station or enter a

new Network ID, from 0 to 9, or A to F. (The default ID is 0.)

• To obtain the programmed ID, click on the Get Network ID button. The software

obtains the programmed ID from the Base Station.

• To enter a Network ID, use the arrow keys next to the text box.

d. Click

Note: Be sure that the ID number at the back of each Logger matches the network ID

If you want to return to USB operation, click the
cable remains plugged into the Base Station. Then follow the on-screen instructions.

OK to confirm the settings and return to the Preferences screen.

number programmed in this window.

Switch to USB button while the Ethernet

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 41

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs

Once you have set up your Loggers and Base Stations and established your Preferences,
you can view the RF ValProbe system on the
functioning properly.

Hardware tab, to ensure that the system is

From the

Main Menu or the Preferences tab, click on the Hardware tab. The Hardware

screen initially appears blank. As the software receives data from the Base Station and
Loggers, it appears similar to Figure 19 below.

Figure 19: Hardware Screen Identifying Loggers

Once the software has established data inputs from the Base Station and Loggers, the
screen appears similar to Figure 20 on the next page, with the temperature and humidity
displayed.

42 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs (cont.)

Figure 20: Hardware Screen with Data Inputs Established

As the RF ValProbe locates and retrieves data for Loggers via the Base Station, it displays
Logger status via a variety of brief messages:

• Searching -- Logger is detected, and the system is getting more information. It may be

ready to use.

• Found -- Logger is available, and ready to use.

• Starting - The software is asking each Logger to start collecting data at the specified

rate and at the specified time, but the Logger has not yet acknowledged that it has
begun the program.

• Logging -- The Logger is currently running in a study.

• Running -- The Logger is programmed and waiting to run in a study at a specified

time.

• Waiting -- The expected readings/samples are late in arrival, due, perhaps, to poor RF

communications or a stopped logger.

• Ready to Read -- The Logger has completed its study.

• Retrieving -- The system is obtaining data from the Loggers.

Note: When the system is Re-reading Loggers, even if the Logger is turned OFF, you can

read the Logger data from the Base Station. Kaye recommends leaving the base
station and loggers turned ON until the study is read, to avoid any issues
retrieving data.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 43

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs (cont.)

•

Read -- The system is reading the Logger samples.

• Done -- The reading is complete.

• Configuring -- The system is uploading or sending calibration/verification

information to the Logger.

• Stopping -- The software sends Stop Data Collection to the logger when the run is

ended.

• Requesting -- The system is getting additional or needed readings/samples from the

Logger.

• Failed Update -- For calibration or verification, the system failed to update Loggers.

Consult Kaye.

The screen offers several additional display and information options:

• To view real-time data from one or more Loggers in graph format, highlight one or

more Loggers in the list (use Ctrl + click to select two or more Loggers) and click on
the Graph Sensors button or click
graph screen appears, similar to Figure 21 below.

File>Graph Sensors from the File menu. A blank

Figure 21: Real-Time Graph Screen

44 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs (cont.)

Data logging begins when you have started the Graph option. To plot the data collected
prior to starting the real time graph, click the History Graph check box; the software will
read historical data from the Base Station and plot it in the real time graph. Once the
historical data has been read and plotted, the History Graph check box will be disabled.
After a few minutes, the screen appears similar to Figure 22 below.

Figure 22: Real-Time Graph Screen

Displaying Data

You can select the type of sensor displayed, copy and print the graph, and choose from a
number of graph options.

• To view Base Station information, you can click on the Base Station icon , or click

View Options>RF Base Station from the View Options menu. The Base Station window

lists serial number, IP address, Network ID and Base Station name.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 45

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs (cont.)

•

To customize your view of the Hardware screen, click on the Customize Column

Layout

Options menu. In addition to Status, Logger model number, and current temperature
and humidity readings, you can select or deselect auxiliary inputs and contacts,
percentage of battery life remaining, stability, calibration and calibration verification
dates, probe ID, firmware version, RF strength, number of readings and time received.

icon , or click View Options>Customize Column Layout from the View

• To refresh the view click the Refresh view button . This button reloads and

redisplays information on Hardware view screens when the initial view of the Loggers
or the commands sent to Loggers do not appear. Try clicking the Refresh button if a
screen or a process seems to be stopped or frozen.

46 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.6 Viewing the RF ValProbe Hardware Inputs (cont.)

•

To view and graph the RF Strength of the various RF strengths of signal paths, click

Map RF Strength from the File menu. The Logger Network Strength Graph screen

opens, displaying the paths and their signal strengths. You can add a background
diagram or photo (as shown in Figure 23 below) on which the software will
superimpose the signal path graph.

Note: Signal strength loading for the first time will take approximately 15 minutes.

Mapping RF strength will function only after the signals have been loaded.

Figure 23: Logger Network Strength Screen

• To print a Logger list report from the current screen view, click on the Print button, or

File >Print Logger list report from current view from the File menu.

click

• To return to the Main Menu, click on the Main Menu button.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 47

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.7 Accessing the Kaye RF ValProbe Online Help

The RF ValProbe online Help provides step-by-step instructions for using the software,
including: programming Loggers, reading Loggers, creating reports, and performing
calibration verification.

Note: The Kaye RF ValProbe online Help requires Internet Explorer 4.0 or later (5.0 or

later is recommended).

To access online Help:

• With the Kaye RF ValProbe program running, click the Help tab.

The Kaye RF ValProbe Help window (shown in Figure 24 below) appears.

Figure 24: RF ValProbe Help Window

Click on the

48 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Contents and Index tab to access specific Help features.

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.7.1 Tabs

The following tabs and buttons are available to assist you in navigating Help:

• The Contents tab displays the Table of Contents. Click a book to display the pages in

that book. Click a page to view the corresponding help topic in the right-hand window.

• The Index tab displays the Index. Enter the keyword to search for, select it from the

list, and click Display to view the associated topic.

• The Search tab provides full-text search capabilities. This feature enables you to

search the entire Help system for a word or phrase. Enter the word or phrase and click
List Topics. Select a topic from the list and click Display. The word or phrase you
searched for will be highlighted in the topic text.

• The Favorites tab enables you to store a list of your favorite or most frequently used

Help topics. Whenever you open Help, you can quickly go to the topics you view most
often by selecting them from this tab. When a topic you would like to store in the
favorites list is displayed in the right-hand pane, click Add. You can update the list at
any time by removing topics you no longer want to mark as favorites.

2.7.2 Buttons

• The Show/Hide buttons show or hide the left pane of the Help window. When you

access Help for individual screens within the Kaye ValProbe software, you can use the
Show button to access the Contents, Index, Search, and Favorites tabs. Use the Hide
button to view a topic only and provide more room on your screen.

• The Back button returns you to the previously viewed Help topic.

• The Forward button opens the next topic in a previously viewed sequence.

• The Print button prints the current Help topic to your default printer.

• The Options button opens a menu that provides access to the Show/Hide, Back,

Forward, and Print features, in addition to:

• Home - Links to the website.

• Stop - Stops loading a new topic or stops downloading information (click this

option to stop a Web page from opening).

• Refresh - Updates the topic content displayed in the topic pane.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 49

Chapter 2. Installing and Using RF ValProbe Software

2.7.2 Buttons (cont.)

• Search Highlight On/Off - When this option is enabled (default setting), words

entered using the Search feature are highlighted in the topic text

2.7.3 Screen-Level Help

You can also access online Help for individual screens in the RF ValProbe software by

clicking the button in the lower right corner of the screen, or by pressing F1.

50 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix A. Specifications

Appendix A. Specifications

A.1 RF ValProbe System Specifications

A.1.1 RF System Operating Frequency

2.4 GHz

A.1.2 RF Certification

USA, Canada, European Union, China, India, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, Australia, Israel,
Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa. For other countries, contact factory.

A.1.3 Number of Loggers

Up to a maximum of 40 Loggers per Base Station.

A.1.4 Transmission

Maximum antenna to antenna distance in open space: 300 feet

A.1.5 PC Update Rate

10 seconds maximum

A.1.6 Maximum Network Form Time

• For 8 Loggers evenly distributed over 5 cubic ft.: typical, 2 minutes

• For 12 Loggers in a 30 ft radius single plane, typical, 4 minutes

A.1.7 Data Retention

Loggers retain up to 10,000 data samples.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 51

Appendix A. Specifications

A.2 Base Station

Autonomous Base Station operation configuration. The external connection (Ethernet or
USB) to the Base Station can be broken and reconnected at any time with no interruption
in system operation and no loss of data.

A.2.1 Connections

Ethernet and USB 2.0, full speed

Note: Connections are mutually exclusive.

A.2.2 Power

Power Adaptor
Input: 100 to 240 Volts AC
50-60 Hz input

A.2.3 Indicators

Power, network communications

52 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix A. Specifications

A.3 Logger

A.3.1 Measurement Types

• Temperat u re

• RH

• 4-20 mA input

• 0-10 voltage input

• Contact Closure

A.3.1a Sensor Configurations

T/RH with external temperature sensor

T/RH with external temperature sensor, 4/20 mA input, contact closure

T/RH with external temperature sensor, 0-10 V input, contact closure

T with two external temperature sensors

T with five external temperature sensors

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 53

Appendix A. Specifications

A.3.2 Environmental

A.3.2a Body

-40°C to 60°C, 0 to 95%RH non condensing

A.3.2b External Probe

-196°C to 200°C

A.3.2c Logger Dimensions

190 mm x 127 mm x 45 mm (7.5 in x 5 in x 1.75)

A.3.2d Base Station Dimensions

64 mm x 32 mm x 15 mm (2.5 in x 1.25 in x 5 in)

A.3.2e Temperature

Single Channel External Sensor

±0.1°C, range 0°C to +60°C
±0.2°C, range -22°C to 0°C
±0.5°C, range -80°C to -22°C
±2.0°C, @ -196°C

For 2 and 5 Channel Temperature Loggers:

±0.1C range -80°C to 130°C

A.3.2f RH

2% from 10 to 90%RH
5% from 0 to 10%, 90 to 100%RH
3% at 40°C, 75%RH
Certificate states ICH Points

54 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

A.3.2g Auxiliary Inputs

Contact: dry

Voltage and current 0.5% FS

A.3.2h Battery Life (Varies ±10%)

1 min sample rate: 8000 hours

A.3.3 Accuracy

A.3.3a Temperature-Validation (External Sensor):

±0.1°C, from 0°C to + 60° C
±0.2°C, from -22°C to 0°C
±0.5°C, from -80°C to -22°C

2.0°C @ -196°C

±0.1°C from 0°C to 140°C for external bendable probe

A.3.3b Relative Humidity

Appendix A. Specifications

Range: 10% to 90%

Accuracy: ±2.0% at 25°C, ±5% for 75% RH at 40°C

±3% for monitoring

Non-condensing environment

A.3.3c Inputs

3.8 to 22 mA Input, 16 bit A/D input, accuracy: 0.5% FS

0 to 10 V input, 16 bit A/D input, accuracy: 0.5% FS
Contact Closure

A.3.3d Sensor Sampling Rate

5 seconds maximum, 12 hours minimum

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 55

Appendix A. Specifications

A.3.4 Battery

Minimum Battery Life (10 second transmission rate, 25°C)

• 1 minute samples: 8000 hrs

• 15 minute samples: 1 year

Note: Additional factors impacting battery life are RF network configuration, sampling

rate, and temperature.

Type: Kaye (p/n 200-084) 2 AA lithium batteries- 3000 mAH

CAUTION!

If it becomes necessary to replace a Logger battery, use only a Kaye
#200-084 1.5 V lithium battery. Use of any other battery will void your
Logger warranty.

A.3.5 Logger Indicators

• Power

• Link

A.3.6 Logger Timing

Date and Time stamp required for each sensor reading

Time synchronization: 15 sec/day minimum

Indication of logger loss of communications interval: either 2 samples or 15 minutes
(whichever is less)

A.3.7 Logger Storage

Non-volatile storage up to 10,000 data samples per sensor

56 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix A. Specifications

A.4 Environmental/EMC

A.4.1 EMC- EN 61326

A.4.1a Base Station

Emissions classification: Class A

Immunity classification: Table A1, Annex A, for use in industrial locations

Performance Criteria: Continuous unmonitored operation

A.4.1b Logger

Emissions classification: Class A

Immunity classification: Annex C, Table C1, portable and battery operated equipment

A.5 Environmental

A.5.1 Logger Storage Specifications

-40°C to +65°C

10 to 90% RH non-condensing

Storage Vibration 2g RMS Random 10-1000 Hz

A.5.2 Logger Operating Specifications

-40°C to +65°C

10-90% RH non-condensing

Operating Vibration 1g RMS Random 10-1000 Hz

A.5.3 Base Station Operating

0°C to +50°C
10-85% RH non-condensing

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 57

Appendix A. Specifications

58 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.1 Introduction

When used with a group of RF ValProbe Base Stations and loggers, the Kaye OPC Server
(version 4.1 and subsequent versions) enables real-time monitoring of up to 8 Base
Stations and their associated Loggers over the Ethernet from remote computers. If users
have RF ValProbe Base Stations connected to the Ethernet, they can read the
measurements of Loggers associated with these base stations via the OPC Client. In
addition, the Server can support a user-supplied OPC Historian Client, which stores all
measurements over a 30-day period.

Note: Real-time monitoring via the OPC Server is only available via the Ethernet, not

via USB connections.

B.2 Installing the OPC Server

The OPC Server supports four Windows® operating systems:

• Windows XP

• Windows 2003 Server

• Windows 2008 Server

• Windows 7

Note: This release does not support Windows NT 3.51 or NT 4.0.

To install the OPC Server:

1. Double-click on the

2. The InstallShield Wizard window opens. Click

3. The License Agreement window opens. Click

proceed. (Clicking

4. Click on

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 59

Clear All to omit XML-DA. Then click Next.

GEPanaOPCServerPackage.exe file on the CD.

Next to continue.

Yes to accept the agreement and

No halts the installation.)

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.2 Installing the OPC Server (cont.)

Note: XML-DA is not available for RF ValProbe, so RF ValProbe users should uncheck

this box.

5. The Wizard now asks if you wish to start copying the program files. Click
review or change any settings, or

6. When the Wizard indicates that installation is complete, click

Next to begin copying the files.

Finish to close the

Back to

Wizard. You have installed GEPanaOPCServer.

B.3 Locating Base Stations on Network

When you first open the OPC Server, the screen appears similar to Figure 25 below.

Figure 25: OPC Server Initial View

To locate the RF ValProbe Base Stations connected to your local subnet, open the
menu and click on the

Discovery option, shown in Figure 26 below.

Tools

Figure 26: The Tools Menu

60 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.3 Locating Base Stations on Network (cont.)

The Discovery window appears similar to Figure 27 below. To find the base stations on
the subnet, click the

If base stations are installed on the subnet, the window should now appear similar to
Figure 28 below.

Discover button.

Figure 27: The Discovery Window

Figure 28: Discovery Window Displaying Base Stations on Network

• Click on Clear to clear the screen

• Click on OK to save the database for future reference and close the screen, or

• Click on Cancel to close the window (without saving the database) and return to the

main OPC Server.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 61

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.4 Setting up a Communication Channel

To set up your RF ValProbe on the network, you must first set up a communication
channel. Right-click on the

Communication Channel as shown in Figure 29 below.

Figure 29: New Communication Channel Option

Address Space root, and select first New and then

The right pane of the main window changes to the
in Figure 30 below.

Figure 30: The Communication

Channel Window

Communication Channel view, shown

62 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.4 Setting up a Communication Channel (cont.)

Enter the channel name, and select the channel type from the drop-down menu. For RF
ValProbe, the appropriate channel type is TCPIP.

Note: If you select a different channel type, a data entry menu appears. However, for

TCP/IP, the device view provides the IP address and IP Port.

Add New to add another communication channel, Reset to change the settings, or

Click

Apply to apply the settings and close the window.

B.5 Setting up a New Device

Once you have set up the communication channel, you can now set up your RF ValProbe.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to install your RF ValProbe Base Station and place your Loggers in

the desired locations before setting up the RF ValProbe on the OPC Server.

1. Right-click on the newly created channel. From the

ValProbe Device

selection. The right pane of the window appears similar to Figure 31

below.

Figure 31: New Device Option

New option, click on the RF

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 63

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5 Setting up a New Device (cont.)

2. Enter the desired base station name in the text box.

3. At the IP Address text box,

• Enter the Base Station IP address. You can click on Tools > Discovery, find the IP

address, and save it by clicking OK.

• Click the button to the right of the box. The Select IP Address window displays the

available base stations on the network. Highlight the desired station, and click OK.

4. The correct number for the IP Port (4445) should appear in the IP Port text box. Enter
the user name and password in the appropriate text boxes. (The default user name is

admin, and the default password is also admin.)

5. Enter an appropriate Monitoring Interval (the interval at which the loggers send data
to the base station, or transmission rate) of at least 10 seconds. The default monitoring
interval is 15 seconds. If the transmission starts to lose data, Kaye recommends
increasing the monitoring interval. Table 2 on page 68 shows the relationship between
the monitoring interval, number of sensors, and frame size.

6. Enter an appropriate Timeout period. The default Timeout period is 60 seconds;
however, for networks with at least 50 sensors, you may need to set a longer Timeout
period. Once you have established RF ValProbe communications, the base station will
flag late data if it receives no new data within this period.

Once you have entered these parameters, click
database, or

64 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Reset to clear the new device and return to the communication window.

Apply to save the new device in the Server

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5.1 Viewing Sensor Data

Once you have set up your RF ValProbe on the OPC Server, you will find that two buttons
on the Device window are enabled:
monitor all the Loggers that send data to the RF ValProbe, while
set up parameters for the best data transmission.

Click on the Sensors button to review your loggers. The screen initially appears similar to
Figure 32 below.

Figure 32: The Sensors Window

Sensors and Advanced. Sensors permits users to

Advanced allows users to

Wait for several minutes while the Server collects data. The screen first displays data in
red (indicating that the sensors are present on the network) and then displays data in black.
Two boxes at the bottom of the screen show the total number of Loggers on the network
and the number of Loggers ready for transmitting. The screen now appears similar to
Figure 33 on the next page.

Note: When you discover devices, the OPC Server retrieves all information about

configuration parameters, measurement parameters, and units from the RF
ValProbe. Depending upon your communication channel and its supported speed,
this procedure might take a few minutes.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 65

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5.1 Viewing Sensor Data (cont.)

Figure 33: Sensors Window with Monitored Sensors

To view real-time data from the Loggers, click on the
the lower right.You can now receive data on:

Enable Real-Time Monitoring box at

• Logger serial number

• Battery capacity (expressed in percentage)

• Relative Humidity

• Temperat u re

• Analog and Digital Inputs

• RSSI in dBm (signal strength, expressed in decibels)

You can also designate a Logger as a repeater (a sensor that takes no measurements itself,
but forwards measurements from other sensors to the base station) by checking the
Repeater box. To send data to the OPC Historian database of this server for storage up to a
month, click on the Historize box to the right of the logger entry. (After 30 days, the oldest
data will be overwritten.)

66 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5.2 Optimizing Network Performance

The Advanced option enables users to designate sensors that have recently had their
batteries replaced, so that the server continues to accurately display battery life. Users can
also establish the transmission parameters for network performance.

Click on the
below.

Advanced button to open this window, which appears similar to Figure 34

Figure 34: The Advanced Option

• To change the server settings for sensors with newly replaced batteries, click on the

“Selected” box next to the appropriate sensor ID number. When you have finished
selecting sensors, click on the “Change Battery for Selected Sensors” button. The
OPC Server resets the battery life settings.

Note: To reset the battery life setting via the Logger, refer to page 8.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 67

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5.2 Optimizing Network Performance (cont.)

• The Frame Size represents the number of time slots designated for each monitoring

interval. Each slot has a time of 31.25 msec; thus, for example, the default frame size
of 150 equals 4.7 sec. Users can select frame sizes from 50 to 450 slots.The
recommended frame size is three times the number of sensors monitored. For
successful data transmissions, Kaye recommends that the monitoring interval
(specified in the Device window on page 63) be at least three times longer than the
frame size. (The default monitoring interval of 15 seconds is slightly more than three
times the default frame size of 150 slots.) Table 2 below shows the relationship
between the monitoring interval, the number of sensors and the frame size.

Table 2: Maximum Monitoring Rate vs. Number of Sensors

Maximum Number of

Monitoring Rate (sec)

Sensors Frame Size (Slots)

10 15

30

15 15

30

45

30 and up 15

30

45

65

100

100

50

100

50

100

150

50

100

150

200

300

450

(Super power saving mode for
monitoring rate 45 sec and up)

68 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.5.2 Optimizing Network Performance (cont.)

a. To find the current frame size, click the Get button to the right of the Frame Size

box.

b. To set a particular size as the frame size, click on the size from the drop-down list

and click the

Set button. A message appears, telling you that the frame size has been

successfully set.

• The Network ID number for each sensor (from 0 to 9, or A to F) is set on a small

rotating dial at the back of the sensor. (See page 15.)

a. To obtain the established Network ID, click the

Get button to the right of the

Network ID box.

b. To set another number as the ID, enter the number in the text box and click the

Set

button. A message appears, telling you that the Network ID has been successfully
established.

OK to return to the Device window. You have now set up your RF ValProbe and

Click
sensors for viewing on the Sensors window and the OPC Client.

Note: Once you set or change parameters in the Advanced window, the server will issue

a command to reset the system. Sensors will disconnect from and rejoin the
network, creating an interval before data transmission resumes.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 69

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.6 Viewing Measurement Units

Once you have added a device to the OPC server, the Server retrieves sensor or channel
information on units and attributes from the RF ValProbe firmware and stores it in the
configuration database. You can then easily check which types of units and attributes are
on any sensor.

To find which units or attributes are on a particular sensor:

1. Click on the specific sensor in the

2. Click on the

Details button. The screen now appears similar to Figure 35 below.

Figure 35: Viewing Sensor Units in the Sensor Window

Address Space root directory.

70 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.7 Setting Up the OPC Test Client

Normally, users conduct real-time monitoring on their computer screens via the OPC
Client connected to the OPC Server. Kaye supplies the OPC Test Client so that installers
can check the operation of the OPC Server. (For real-time monitoring, users can set up
their own OPC Clients, or Kaye can provide a custom solution.) To open the OPC Test
Client, open the Windows Start Menu. From the Programs Menu, click on

OPC Test Client. The OPC Client window appears similar to Figure 36 below.

on

Kaye, and then

Figure 36: OPC Client Window

To set up the OPC Client:

1. First, connect the client to the OPC Server.

a. Highlight the Server in the address tree in the left pane.

b. Click on the

Connect button, or right-click on the server and click Connect. In either

case, the Server is connected to the Client.

2. Next, you must establish at least one group of items to be monitored.

a. Be sure the Server is highlighted in the address tree.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 71

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.7 Setting Up the OPC Client (cont.)

b. Click on the Add Group button, or right-click on the server and click Add Group. In

either case, the Add Group window appears (shown in Figure 37 below.

Figure 37: The Add Group Window

c. Type in the desired group name, adjust any necessary parameters, and click

OK. The

group folder appears in the address tree, below the server.

3. The last step calls for setting up tags with monitored parameters within the group.

a. Highlight the group folder in the address tree in the left pane.

b. Click on the

Add Items button, or right-click on the folder and click Add Items. The

Tag window opens, shown in Figure B-14 on the next page.

c. In the

Tag Entry window, click on each folder in the program tree until you open a

sensor folder.

d. The bottom pane displays the available tags (corresponding to the available

parameters for display). Right-click on one tag, and three options appear:

• Edit Item ID enables you to change the name of the tag.

72 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.7 Setting Up the OPC Client (cont.)

•

Add to Tag List allows you to add the highlighted tag to the list of “Tags to be

Added” in the right pane.

• Add All Items to Tag List enables you to add all the tags in the bottom pane to the

right pane with a single click.

Figure 38: The Tag Entry Window

e. Once you have added the tags to the right window, open the File menu and click on

Update Tags and Return to Explorer.

The main Client window reopens, with the tags displaying current data in the right pane,
as shown in Figure 39 on the next page.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 73

Appendix B. Using the OPC Server and Client

B.7 Setting Up the OPC Client (cont.)

Figure 39: OPC Client, Displaying Data

74 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

This appendix contains information on the following topics:

• WEEE Directive (see Section C.1 on page 75)

• Battery disposal (see Section C.2 on page 76)

C.1 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

Amphenol Thermometrics, Inc. is a participant in Europe’s Waste Electrical and
Electronic Equipment (WEEE) take-back initiative, directive 2002/96/EC.

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

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

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

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

Contact your Amphenol Thermometrics, Inc. team for additional take-back information.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 75

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

C.2 Battery Disposal

This product contains a battery that cannot be disposed of as unsorted
municipal waste in the European Union. See the product
documentation for specific battery information. The battery is marked
with this symbol, which may include lettering to indicate cadmium
(Cd), lead (Pb), or mercury (Hg). For proper recycling return the
battery to your supplier or to a designated collection point.

C.2.1 What do the Markings Mean?

Batteries and accumulators must be marked (either on the battery or accumulator or on its
packaging, depending on size) with the separate collection symbol
marking must include the chemical symbols of specific levels of toxic metals as follows:

. In addition, the

• Cadmium (Cd) over 0.002%

• Lead (Pb) over 0.004%

• Mercury (Hg) over 0.0005%

76 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

C.2.2 The Risks and Your Role in Reducing Them

Your participation is an important part of the effort to minimize the impact of batteries and
accumulators on the environment and on human health. For proper recycling you can
return this product or the batteries or accumulators it contains to your supplier or to a
designated collection point.

Some batteries or accumulators contain toxic metals that pose serious risks to human
health and to the environment. When required, the product marking includes chemical
symbols that indicate the presence toxic metals: Pb for lead, Hg for mercury, and Cd for
cadmium.

• Cadmium poisoning can result in cancer of the lungs and prostate gland. Chronic

effects include kidney damage, pulmonary emphysema, and bone diseases such as
osteomalcia and osteoporosis. Cadmium may also cause anemia, discoloration of the
teeth, and loss of smell (anosmia).

• Lead is poisonous in all forms. It accumulates in the body, so each exposure is

significant. Ingestion and inhalation of lead can cause severe damage to human health.
Risks include brain damage, convulsions, malnutrition, and sterility.

• Mercury creates hazardous vapors at room temperature. Exposure to high

concentrations of mercury vapor can cause a variety of severe symptoms. Risks include
chronic inflammation of mouth and gums, personality change, nervousness, fever, and
rashes.

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 77

Appendix C. Environmental Compliance

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78 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Index

Numerics

21 CFR Part 11 Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

A

Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Active User List, Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Add Group

OPC Test Client. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Advanced Option in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 79

Index

B

Back Button in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Base Station

Configurations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Connecting to Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Connecting to USB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Getting Network ID from Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Information in Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Locating on Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Network ID, Getting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Selecting and Programming on Ethernet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Settings, Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Base Stations

Locating on Network via OPC Server. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Batteries

Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Battery

Installing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Low Warning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Power Setting, Resetting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Battery Life Warning Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Buttons

Show/Hide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

80 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Index

C

Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Calibration Verification

Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

COM Port for IRTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Communication Channel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Communication, Establishing on OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Communications Port, Selecting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Contents Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Customize Column Layout Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

D

Data

Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Data Display Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Data Retention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Discovery Option in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Disposal

Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Electronic Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

E

EMC Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Enable Real-Time Monitoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Ethernet Connection, Establishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Ethernet Connection,Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Ethernet on Preferences Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 81

Index

F

Favorites Tab in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Forward Button in Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Frame Size for OPC Server. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

G

Graphing Real-Time Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

H

Hardware Tab (in Software) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Help

Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Screen-Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Help Buttons

Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Humidity Sensor

Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Humidity Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

I

Identification Required Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Index Tab in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

IP Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

IRTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

COM Port (in Preferences) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

82 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Index

L

Logger

Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Number of Readings Held. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Sensor Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Timestamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Logger List Report, Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Loggers

Humidity Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Monitoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Setting Network ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Switching On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Temperature Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Validation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Loggers, Number Supported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

M

Measurement Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Measurement Units, Viewing on OPC Server. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Monitoring Interval (OPC Server) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

N

Network Form Time, Maximum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Network ID

for Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

for OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

for USB Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Initial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Setting on Loggers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 83

Index

O

Online Help, Accessing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

OPC Historian Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

OPC Server

Advanced Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Communication Channel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Discovery Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Installing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Locating Base Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

OPC Test Client. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

PC Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Setting up RF ValProbe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Viewing Sensor Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

OPC Server for RF ValProbe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

OPC Test Client, Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Operating Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Operator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Accounts, Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Options Button in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

P

Password

Minimum Length. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Password Maintenance

Add New User. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Password Maintenance Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Password, Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Password, Entering in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

PC Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

PC Update Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Power (for Base Station) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Print Button in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

84 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Index

R

Refresh Discovery Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Report Generation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Return Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

RF Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

RF ValProbe

Base Station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Return Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90

Setting Up on OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Software Installation on PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Software Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Viewing Hardware Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 85

Index

S

Safety Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Screen-Level Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Search Tab in Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Sensor Configurations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Sensor Data, Available (in OPC Server) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Sensor Data, Viewing in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Sensor Sampling Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Sensors

Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Sensors Window in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Show/Hide Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Site Options

Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Selecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Software

Two User Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Storage Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

System

Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

System Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Account, Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

86 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Index

T

Tabs

Contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Tabs in Help

Favorites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Tag Entry in OPC Test Client . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Temperat u re

Bath Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Temperature Units, Selecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Timeout (OPC Server). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

U

Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

USB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

USB Connection, Establishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

USB Connection, Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

USB on Preferences Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

User Accounts

Disabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

User Accounts, Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

User ID

Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

User Identification, Disabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

User Name, Default in OPC Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

User Name, Entering in OPC Server. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

W

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Waste Disposal

Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Electronic Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

WEEE Directive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 87

Index

88 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

Warranty

Warranty

Each instrument manufactured by Amphenol Advanced Sensors is warranted to be free
from defects in material and workmanship. Liability under this warranty is limited to
restoring the instrument to normal operation or replacing the instrument, at the sole
discretion of Amphenol Advanced Sensors. Fuses and batteries are specifically excluded
from any liability. This warranty is effective from the date of delivery to the original
purchaser. If Amphenol Advanced Sensors determines that the equipment was defective,
the warranty period is:

• one year for general electronic failures of the instrument

• one year for mechanical failures of the sensor

If Amphenol Advanced Sensors determines that the equipment was damaged by misuse,
improper installation, the use of unauthorized replacement parts, or operating conditions
outside the guidelines specified by Amphenol Advanced Sensors, the repairs are not
covered under this warranty.

The warranties set forth herein are exclusive and are in lieu of all other

warranties whether statutory, express or implied (including warranties or

merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, and warranties arising

from course of dealing or usage or trade).

RF ValProbe® User’s Manual 89

Return Policy

Return Policy

If a Amphenol Advanced Sensors instrument malfunctions within the warranty period, the
following procedure must be completed:

1. Notify Amphenol Advanced Sensors, giving full details of the problem, and provide

the model number and serial number of the instrument. If the nature of the problem
indicates the need for factory service, Amphenol Advanced Sensors will issue a
RETURN AUTHORIZATION number (RA), and shipping instructions for the return
of the instrument to a service center will be provided.

2. If Amphenol Advanced Sensors instructs you to send your instrument to a service

center, it must be shipped prepaid to the authorized repair station indicated in the
shipping instructions.

3. Upon receipt, Amphenol Advanced Sensors will evaluate the instrument to determine

the cause of the malfunction.

Then, one of the following courses of action will then be taken:

• If the damage is covered under the terms of the warranty, the instrument will be

repaired at no cost to the owner and returned.

• If Amphenol Advanced Sensors determines that the damage is not covered under the

terms of the warranty, or if the warranty has expired, an estimate for the cost of the
repairs at standard rates will be provided. Upon receipt of the owner’s approval to
proceed, the instrument will be repaired and returned.

90 RF ValProbe® User’s Manual

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