Metrohm VESUV User Manual

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Metrohm AG CH-9101 Herisau (Switzerland)

Metrodata Vesuv 3.0 6.6008.XXX

Please use the on-line help (key <F1>) for more information.

8.110.8133

99.04 Ti

Contents

1. Introduction.......................................................................................... 1

Purpose of program......................................................................... 1

System requirements ...................................................................... 2

Installation of the program............................................................... 3

2. Connecting devices ............................................................................. 5

Overview..........................................................................................5

Preparing the interfaces.................................................................. 6

Connecting devices.........................................................................8

Installing Vesuv..................................................................... 4

Uninstalling Vesuv................................................................ 4

USB Port Server...................................................................6

Moxa C218 Turbo ISA board................................................ 6

Softswitch 2000.................................................................... 7

Titrino.................................................................................... 8

726 Titroprocessor................................................................ 9

756 KF Coulometer ............................................................ 11

737 KF Coulometer ............................................................ 12

691 pH Meter...................................................................... 13

692, 713 pH Meter.............................................................. 14

712 Conductometer............................................................15

730 Sample Changer.......................................................... 16

707, 768 KF Oven .............................................................. 17

Balance............................................................................... 18

3. Tutorial................................................................................................ 19

General remarks............................................................................ 19

Working with the datalogger.......................................................... 20

Receive and view data........................................................ 21

Properties of the device window......................................... 21

Save/Restore device methods............................................ 22

Managing the determination results .............................................. 24

Determinations table...........................................................24

Reducing the number of data sets, filter............................. 25

Exporting data from Vesuv into Excel................................. 26

Curves ................................................................................ 27

Vesuv 3.0 Contents • i

4. Password ............................................................................................29

Overview........................................................................................29

Management of access rights and users ............................30

Enter/modify password........................................................31

5. Datalogger...........................................................................................33

Overview........................................................................................33

Datalogger toolbar...............................................................34

How to start work with the Datalogger.................................35

Device manager.............................................................................36

Add new instrument ............................................................37

Port parameters..................................................................37

Softswitch ......................................................................................39

Device windows for analytical instruments.....................................40

Show received data.............................................................41

Communication test............................................................41

Device window properties..............................................................43

General properties ..............................................................43

Communication...................................................................43

Device monitoring ...............................................................44

Database selection .............................................................47

Reports ...............................................................................48

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

Device methods.............................................................................51

Method backup ...................................................................51

Restore methods.................................................................52

Balance window.............................................................................54

Overview.............................................................................54

Balance log file....................................................................54

Options................................................................................55

Assign balance manually ....................................................56

Assign balance automatically..............................................57

Detach balance...................................................................58

Datalogger options.........................................................................59

General...............................................................................59

Default directories...............................................................59

Management of user names...............................................60

Communication...................................................................60

Configurations................................................................................61

ii • Contents Vesuv 3.0

6. Database............................................................................................. 63

Overview........................................................................................63

Toolbar of the database...................................................... 64

Determinations table ..................................................................... 65

Representation of the determinations table........................ 66

More columns of the determinations table.......................... 68

Edit columns of determinations table..................................68

Data management......................................................................... 70

Sort.....................................................................................70

Filter.................................................................................... 70

Find..................................................................................... 72

Printing.......................................................................................... 74

Printing determinations table.............................................. 74

Printing Vesuv reports ........................................................ 74

Creating your own report templates.................................... 76

Printing raw reports............................................................. 77

Export data.................................................................................... 78

Export settings.................................................................... 79

Export formats.................................................................... 80

Curve............................................................................................. 82

Data for curve display......................................................... 82

Curve colors, fonts..............................................................84

Curve scaling...................................................................... 84

Curve grid........................................................................... 85

EP display in the curve....................................................... 85

Labels.................................................................................85

Curve options...................................................................... 86

Curve overlay...................................................................... 86

Navigator ............................................................................ 86

Re-evaluation, recalculation..........................................................87

Re-evaluation, recalculation ............................................... 87

Recalculate results ............................................................. 88

Show variables and formulas.............................................. 89

List of calculation variables for Titrinos and 756 KF

Coulometer.........................................................................89

List of calculation variables for 726 Titroprocessor............. 90

Reset original results.......................................................... 90

Statistics............................................................................. 91

More windows................................................................................ 92

Raw reports ........................................................................ 92

Endpoints............................................................................ 93

Options of the database................................................................94

General............................................................................... 94

Monitoring of database.......................................................94

Auxiliary functions ......................................................................... 96

Remark...............................................................................96

Refresh data.......................................................................96

Database template ............................................................. 96

Compress database ........................................................... 97

Repair database................................................................. 97

Vesuv 3.0 Contents • iii

7. Troubleshooting .................................................................................99

General..........................................................................................99

Data transfer................................................................................100

Printing.........................................................................................103

Database .....................................................................................105

8. Appendix ...........................................................................................107

Software license ..........................................................................107

Scope of delivery and ordering designations...............................108

Index......................................................................................................110

iv • Contents Vesuv 3.0

1. Introduction

This chapter describes the system requirements of your PC and the installation of the program.

Purpose of program

The name Vesuv is an abbreviation of "Verification Support for Validation". Vesuv serves to receive data from analytical devices (determination data) and to store the data in a database. You may as well save determination methods from your devices in the PC.

Vesuv supports the GLP guidelines and offers great working comfort:

• Connection of balances to the PC and distribution of balance data to the connected analytical devices. The balances can be assigned to the devices either manually or automatically, see pages 56 and 57.

• Vesuv works autonomously in the background which doesn't force your lab personnel to learn a lot about the program.

• Extensive password protection.

• Monitoring of time intervals for

. the calibration of the analytical devices . the execution of GLP tests . the maintenance of the devices . backup and compressing the database

• Monitoring of the size of the database

Vesuv 3.0 1. Introduction • 1

The program consists of 2 parts:

1. The Datalogger (see pages 33ff) receives the determination results of the connected devices. Depending on the program version you may connect up to 2 or up to 64 devices. You can also connect balances and assign these balances to your analytical devices. Within the Datalogger you can also save the methods of your devices and monitor a time interval for the calibration, GLP test and maintenance of your devices.

2. The Database (see pages 63ff) represents the determination results in a table which allows you to easily manage your data. Furthermore you have:

• Sort and search functions.

• Filters which display only those data sets which meet

your prescribed criteria.

• Export functions for other programs, e.g. Excel or

LIMS.

• The data can be validated and if necessary recalcu-

lated and/or re-evaluated.

• Very flexible curve representation.

• Several curves can be overlaid in order to compare

them.

• Reports are printed in the flexible HTML format.

System requirements

Computer recommended Pentium Processor 133

RAM min. 64 Mbytes Operating system Windows 95, 98 or

Disk space recommended min. 250 Mbytes for pro-

ComPorts ≥ 1 ComPort, depending on the number

MHz or equal

Windows NT 4.0 (SR3)

gram and data

of connected devices

Graphics adapter recommended min. 256 colors, repre-

sentation 800x600 pixel

2 • 1. Introduction Vesuv 3.0

Installation of the program

The installation program copies the files from the installation CD to the drive and directory you specify and creates the following sub-directories:

Vesuv

Includes all files needed for the program pack-

Bin

age.

Drivers

Databases

Contains the device drivers.

Default directory for Vesuv databases. Includes templates:

Templates

. for Vesuv databases, e.g. for different devices . for different report layouts

Exports

Default directory for data exported from the Vesuv database.

Methods

Default directory for device methods saved by Vesuv.

Settings

Default directory for saved filters (*.flt) and export settings (*.exp) of the database.

For printing you need the Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher. You will find the Internet Explorer 4.0 on the installation CD together with Vesuv and you can install it.

The installation program automatically sets the receive buffers of PC COM's to low (setting in windows system: <Start>, Settings, Control panel, System, Device manager, Ports, Advanced).

Some computers have a power save mode which switches the CPU of the computer off after a certain time without key stroke. This power save mode must be switched off.

For Windows NT

Log-in as user with administrator access to install the program.

Vesuv 3.0 1. Introduction • 3

Installing Vesuv

Start Windows. Find a drive that has at least 100 Mbytes free storage space.

Insert installation CD and open this drive. A start page with a selection of programs appears. Select Vesuv 3.0.

During the installation, the following entries are requested:

• language of Vesuv. The program is available in English and German.

• If you don't have an Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher on your PC, you may install it in its standard version.

• path where Vesuv should be installed

The 6.2145.040 (for up to 64 devices) or 6.2145.050 (for up to 2 devices) Dongle is part of the scope of delivery of the full program version. Set this Dongle on LPT-Port 1 or 2. The printer cable is set onto the Dongle. Starting Vesuv, the Dongle will be checked.

Please send us your registration card as soon as possible so that we can register you as an official user of Vesuv. Only registered users will get updated program versions at a special price.

A demonstration version can be used for 100 days. After this 100 days you may continue to use the Vesuv database. The datalogger is not accessible anymore, e.g. you can't receive new data. You can upgrade your demonstration version at any time if you set a 6.2145.040 or 6.2145.050 Dongle on the LPT Port of your computer.

Uninstalling Vesuv

You can uninstall Vesuv at any time: Windows <Start>-Button

Settings

Control panel

Software

Select the program folder (usually Vesuv)

Button <Add/Remove>

After uninstalling Vesuv you will get a dialog with the button <Detail>. Here you will find a list of directories which could not be deleted. All directories containing your own data will not be deleted on uninstallation.

4 • 1. Introduction Vesuv 3.0

2. Connecting devices

This chapter describes the connection of the devices to the PC. You will also find information about how to multiply the COM ports of your PC.

Overview

The following devices can work with Vesuv:

• 701, 702, 716, 718, 719, 720, 736, 751, 758, 784, 785 Titrinos, see page 8.

• 726 Titroprocessor, see page 9.

• 737, 756 KF Coulometers, see page 11f.

• 691, 692, 713 pH Meters, see page 13f.

• 712 Conductometer, see page 15.

• 730 Sample Changer (to save methods and the configu-

ration), see page 16.

• 707, 768 KF Ovens, see page 17.

• several balances, see page 18.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 5

Preparing the interfaces

You get additional serial ports (COM ports) with an extension board or with a Softswitch.

The following boards have been tested and can be ordered from Metrohm:

• USB Port Server

• Moxa C218 Turbo ISA

• Softswitch 2000

USB Port Server

Metrohm ordering number: 2.145.0310 With the USB Port Server you can get 4 additional 9pin

COM's. The board is connected to the USB port of your PC. With an USB port switch on your PC you can connect several USB Port Servers.

For details about the installation of this board see the manual of the board.

The USB Port Server can be used with Windows 95 and 98. Windows NT 4.0 is not (yet) supported.

Moxa C218 Turbo ISA board

Metrohm ordering number: 2.145.0240 The board opens 8 additional 25pin COM's. The board has to

be plugged into your PC. For details about the installation of this board see the manual

of the board.

6 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

Softswitch 2000

Metrohm ordering numbers:

Softswitch 2000 (for 4 devices) with power adapter 220 V 2.145.0014 Softswitch 2000 (for 4 devices) with power adapter 110 V 2.145.0015 Extension box (for 4 further devices) 2.145.0020 Cable Softswitch-PC, 25 pin 6.2125.020 Cable Softswitch-PC, 9 pin 6.2125.020+6.2125.010

The Softswitch 2000 has 4 x 25pin ports. In addition, the Softswitch can be equipped with up to 3 extension boxes (each for 4 devices) so that you can connect up to 16 devices to one serial port of your computer.

The connected devices are operated automatically via the

Softswitch. Each configured and enabled device is serviced. A red LED at the Softswitch indicates the active connection.

Important

• All devices which are connected to the Softswitch must have the same RS parameters as the Softswitch and operate with a software handshake (SWchar).

• Balances and the 756 and 737 KF Coulometers can't be connected to the Softswitch. They must be connected directly to a COM port.

• The Softswitch can't be connected to a COM of an extension board. Connect it directly to PC COM.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 7

Connecting devices

Titrino

Cables

Titrino 25pin, PC 25pin 6.2125.060 Titrino 25pin, PC 9pin 6.2125.110 Titrino 9pin, PC 25pin 6.2125.110 Titrino 9pin, PC 9pin 6.2134.040

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the Titrino is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the Titrino is connected via a Softswitch)

The RS parameters can be set on the Titrino in key <configuration>, >RS settings.

Notes

• At the end of the titration at least the following reports should be transmitted: Full;Calc;MpList (if present) In the mode CAL: Calib. Set on the Titrino under "<DEF>, >Report" (COM1). You can also send additional reports which can be stored in the database and/or printed out. Important: Don't send any curves from the Titrino to Vesuv! The Vesuv curve is created from the measuring point list which the Titrino transmits.

• If you are working with TIP and require a separate record for TIP in the database, then at the end of the TIP sequence a pause should be made which is longer than the "Timeout" of Vesuv.

• Titrinos with 2 RS interfaces

e.g. 751, 758, 784, 785 Titrinos: Connect the PC to COM port 1 of the Titrino.

• 751, 758 Titrinos

If you use Italian for the instrument dialog then you require the program versions 5.751.0011 and 5.758.0011 or higher.

• 701 KF Titrino

Transmit the full report. Setting on the Titrino under "<Parameters>, >preselections"

8 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

726 Titroprocessor

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the Titroprocessor is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the Titroprocessor is connected via a Soft-

switch)

The RS parameters can be set on the Titroprocessor in "Config, Interfaces".

Notes

• For working with Vesuv you need program version

5.726.0012 or higher.

• Transmit at least the raw data report: settings on 726 Titroprocessor under "Methods, *Report" If you want to store reports, you should also transmit the report "Methods, *Standard". Important: Don't send any curves from the Titroprocessor to Vesuv! The Vesuv curve is created from the measuring point list which the Titroprocessor transmits.

• The report must be transmitted and not printed out.

• Set data transfer to "LIMS":

settings under "Config, Interfaces"

• If you are working with a balance which is connected to the PC then you must first select the balance type on the 726 Titroprocessor. Setting under "Config, Interfaces "

• Only the first line of the report header can be read into the database.

• If sample data (sample identifications, weight) are altered during the determination then they may differ in the individual sub-determinations.

• Equations with special expressions (TST) cannot be recalculated in Vesuv.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 9

• The raw reports cannot be printed out on the PC printer immediately after the determination. Use the internal printer of the Titroprocessor for this.

10 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

756 KF Coulometer

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.110 PC 9pin 6.2134.040

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit, no parity, handshake "HWs". The Coulometer cannot be connected via a Softswitch.

The RS parameters can be set on the Coulometer in key <CONFIG>, >RS settings COM1.

Notes

• Connect the PC to COM port 1 of the Coulometer.

• The 756 KF Coulometer can't be connected to a Soft-

switch. Connect it directly to a PC port or to a port of an extension board.

• At the end of the titrations transmit at least the following reports: Result;Calc;MpList Settings on the Coulometer under "<DEF>, >Report, COM1" You can also send additional reports which can be stored in the database and/or printed out. Important: Don't send any curves from the Coulometer to Vesuv! The Vesuv curve is created from the measuring point list which the Coulometer transmits.

• If the Coulometer is operated by Vesuv then the report identification, the date and method lines will be automatically switched on in the report. This ensures that the report is correctly recognized and read out.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 11

737 KF Coulometer

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit, no parity, handshake "HWs". The Coulometer cannot be connected via a Softswitch.

The RS parameters can be set on the Coulometer in key <CONFIG>, >RS SETTINGS.

Notes

• The 737 KF Coulometer can't be connected to a Softswitch. Connect it directly to a PC port or to a port of an extension board.

• If you want to show curves in the database then transmit the measuring point list. Settings under "<CONFIG>, AUXILIARIES" MP.LIST: ON TIME INTERV. 1 S (the time interval must be smaller than the timeout in Vesuv)

12 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

691 pH Meter

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the pH Meter is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the pH Meter is connected via a Softswitch)

The RS parameters are set on the pH Meter as follows: Switch pH Meter on + press "ref->M" key SE 1 (switch on transmission) Set baud rate and bit length correctly HS 0 (handshake) Exit settings with the "mode" key. Drift-controlled transmission is triggered with the "->" key.

In the calibration report a line can be created in the database for each buffer.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 13

692, 713 pH Meter

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the pH Meter is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the pH Meter is connected via a Softswitch)

The RS parameters can be set on the pH Meter in key <configuration>, >RS settings.

Settings on the pH Meter

• Always transmit the print header: settings under "<config>, >printer"

• Switch off date/time transmission for each measurement: settings under "<config>, >print meas.value"

• Do not switch off sample number: settings under "<config>, >auxiliaries"

• Only transmit reports without embedded graphics, i.e. short reports for calibrations, electrode test, ion measurements

14 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

712 Conductometer

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the Conductometer is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the Conductometer is connected via a Soft-

switch)

The RS parameters can be set on the Conductometer in key <configuration>, >RS settings.

Settings on the Conductometer

• For proper functioning you need the Conductometer program version 712.0015 or higher.

• Always transmit the print header: settings under "<config>, >printer"

• Switch off date/time transmission for each measurement: settings under "<config>, >print meas.value"

• Do not switch off sample number: settings under "<config>, >auxiliaries"

• Only transmit reports without embedded graphics, i.e. short reports for cal T

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 15

730 Sample Changer

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the Sample Changer is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the Sample Changer is connected via a Soft-

switch)

The RS parameters can be set on the Sample Changer in key <CONFIG>, >RS232 settings.

Notes

• With the Sample Changer methods and configurations can be stored and reloaded.

• Reports from the Sample Changer can be stored in the database and printed out on the PC printer.

16 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

707, 768 KF Oven

Cables

PC 25pin 6.2125.060 PC 9pin 6.2125.110

If possible work with the following RS parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 Data Bit, 1 Stop Bit and no parity. The handshake must be set as follows:

• HWs (if the Oven is connected to a COM port)

• SWchar (if the Oven is connected via a Softswitch)

The RS parameters can be set on the Oven in key <CONFIG>, >RS232 settings.

Notes

• If the oven is connected to the PC, then transmit at least the automatic report at the end of the titration. You can also send additional reports which can be stored in the database and/or printed out.

• If the oven is connected to an instrument via an RS cable then do not send an oven report.

Vesuv 3.0 2. Connecting devices • 17

Balance

Balances with serial interfaces can be connected as follows:

Balance Cable

Sartorius MP8, MC1 6.2125.070, PC: 25pin

6.2134.060, PC: 9pin

Mettler AM, PM, AT 6.2146.020, PC: 25pin

6.2146.020 + 6.2125.010, PC: 9pin

AE (Opt. 011) 6.2125.020, PC: 25pin

6.2125.020 + 6.2125.010, PC: 9pin

PG 6.2125.130, PC: 25pin

6.2134.110, PC: 9pin

AB, AG, PR Mettler interface LC-RS25, PC:25pin

Mettler interface LC-RS9, PC:9pin

AND with RS232 (OP-03) 6.2125.020, PC: 25pin

6.2125.020 + 6.2125.010, PC: 9pin

Precisa with RS232-interface 6.2125.080, PC: 25pin

6.2125.080 + 6.2125.010, PC: 9pin

Notes

• Connect the balance directly to a PC port or the port of an extension board (not to Softswitch).

• Transmit weights with their units.

• Do not operate balance in "Continuous transmission"

mode

18 • 2. Connecting devices Vesuv 3.0

3. Tutorial

This chapter will introduce you into the operation of Vesuv. You will get an idea of the its possibilities.

General remarks

Vesuv consists of 2 program parts: The datalogger and the database. After installing the program you will find this two icons of Vesuv on your desktop:

Icon of the datalogger. The datalogger receives the analytical results and stores them in the Vesuv database. You can also store analytical device methods on your PC.

The Vesuv database shows and manages your analytical results. You may also recalculate these results.

On-line Help

Key <F1> provides help for the current topic.

Green texts You can click them and jump to a different help

topic.

Magenta texts They identify a dialog in the corresponding

window. In some cases, the color is also used to highlight important information.

Backup

You should backup your data at regular intervals. You may also monitor the interval for data backup, see page 94.

Vesuv 3.0 3. Tutorial • 19

Working with the datalogger

Open the datalogger. You may have to login with your password if a login window appears.

The datalogger work bench appears. Each configured and enabled device has its own device window:

If you don't see device windows on your datalogger work bench because you don't have any configured devices, see pages 8 and 35.

2 devices are enabled: 756 KF Coulometer and 702 Titrino.

In the device window you can enter data for your daily analytical work and it provides some information as well:

You may enter or select (see page 60) your name.

You may add a remark which will be stored in the database together with your result.

This remark can also be assigned to the last determination if you press the button .

In the lower part of the window you see the status of the device, the number of determinations since Vesuv was started (or since you opened this configuration) and the name of the database where the results are stored.

In the status bar of the device window you can see if a balance is assigned to this window and the COM of the PC where the device is connected.

For data reception, the status of the device window has to be "Waiting for data" (as in the figure above).

20 • 3. Tutorial Vesuv 3.0

Receive and view data

Send a report from your analytical device to Vesuv. Watch the status display changing from "Receiving data" to "Sending to database".

"Evaluating data" means that Vesuv recognizes e.g. results, endpoints, sample data etc. from the reports and writes these data to the corresponding fields in the database.

You can view the last received data with button .

Properties of the device window

You may

• enter the name of the database to store your results, see page 47.

• monitor time intervals for calibration, GLP tests and maintenance of your device, see page 44.

• define the device reports to be stored in the database, see page 48.

• define the reports to be printed immediately after the determination, see page 48.

These settings are accessible if you select the corresponding device window, click with the right mouse button, and select "Properties", see page 43ff.

Vesuv 3.0 3. Tutorial • 21

Save/Restore device methods

Methods from Titrinos and from the 756 KF Coulometer can be stored in the PC. For the 730 Sample Changer, methods and its configuration can be stored.

Save methods

1. Select the window of the device from which you wish to save methods.

2. Click with the right mouse button in this device and select "Stop". You stop data reception in Vesuv. Make sure, there is no determination running on your device!

3. Click again with the right mouse button and select "Save methods". The device will be stopped which means that data from a running determination will be lost. The following window appears:

Memory range of the device.

You need this options only if you don't wish to store all the methods of the selected memory range.

The methods will be saved in the file selected above.

4. Select the memory range of the device (þ) for the methods to be stored in the PC. If you wish to store only selected methods of the memory range, see page 51.

5. Select a file and press the button <Save methods in file>. The methods will be saved in the file.

6. Leave the window with <Close>.

22 • 3. Tutorial Vesuv 3.0

Restore methods

1. Select the window of the device where you wish to restore methods.

2. Click with the right mouse button in this device and select "Stop". Make sure, there is no determination running on your device!

3. Click again with the right mouse button and select "Restore methods".

4. Select a file in the method window and press the button <Read file>. The window may appear as follows ("Select methods" and "Show open directories" are þ):

List of methods from the selected file.

Enter the target for the methods to be stored in the device. Original directory means that the methods will be stored in the same memory range from where they came originally.

5. Press the button <Restore methods in device>. The methods will be stored in the device.

6. Leave the window with <Close>.

Vesuv 3.0 3. Tutorial • 23

Managing the determination results

Open the program part "Database": Press e.g. the button in the Datalogger (or with menu item "View, Show Vesuv database").

Open the database "Demo" (menu item "File, Open"). You will at least see the determinations table of this database:

Determinations table

The determinations table contains a line for each determination (data set).

The columns of this table can be selected with menu item "View, Properties":

• Have e.g. identification ID2 displayed in the determinations table (þ).

• Modify the column header of "RS1": Select the line "RS1", click again and write e.g. "Result".

Leave the window "Properties" with <OK>. Change the sequence of the columns: Click with the left

mouse button in the gray column header, keep the mouse button pressed and drag the column to the correct place.

Sort the data sets according to their date/time: Click with the left mouse button in the gray column header "Date": The data sets will be sorted in ascending order.

24 • 3. Tutorial Vesuv 3.0

Reducing the number of data sets, filter

The number of data sets to be displayed in the determinations table can be reduced by means of filters.

Click with the right mouse button in the column "Method" in a field which contains the value "Water" and select "Filter". Only data sets which have been created with the method "Water" will be displayed.

The following 3 data sets remain from the original table:

The status bar of the database (lower right) shows "FILTER" to indicate that a filter is active.

Remove the filter with menu item "Data, Filter on".

For more possibilities with filters see menu item "Data, Filter" and page 70.

Vesuv 3.0 3. Tutorial • 25

Exporting data from Vesuv into Excel

The measuring point lists of some selected data sets will be exported into an Excel table.

1. Select the data sets.

2. Select menu item "File, Export data"

Select CSV, the Excel format.

Press button <Settings> and select "Measuring point lists". Leave settings with <OK>.

3. Export the measuring point lists with button <Export>.

4. Open the file ...\Vesuv\Exports\a.csv in Excel. The values will be filled directly into the Excel table and can be treated there.

26 • 3. Tutorial Vesuv 3.0

Curves

Open the curve window with the button of the toolbar (or menu item "View, Show curve").

The curve window shows the curve of the selected data set. The curve is displayed out of the measuring point list from the analytical device.

You may modify the curve representation: Select the curve window, click with the right mouse button and select "Properties". You can now modify colors, symbols, fonts etc. for curve representation, see page 82ff.

You can also overlay curves which have the same axis (e.g. curves of pH vs. volume): Press button of the toolbar.

The title in the curve window shows now "multiple". Select e.g. 2 data sets of method "Tit.NaOH". You will get the following curves:

Leave the mode "Curve overlay" pressing the button

again.

Vesuv 3.0 3. Tutorial • 27

4. Password

This chapter shows how to manage access rights for different user groups.

Overview

Vesuv has a comprehensive protection by password. Each menu item can be locked separately. Access rights are assigned to different groups. Users belong to such a group.

Access rights are defined separately for the datalogger and the database .

Password protection is activated in menu item "Options, Settings, General". If the access rights are checked, the menu items "Options, User permissions" and "File, New login" are accessible. If you start the datalogger or the database, the login window appears, see page 31.

You always need an administrator. Only administrators can modify rights.

Vesuv 3.0 4. Password • 29

Management of access rights and users

Menu item "Options, User permissions"

Groups with different access rights can be defined. Users are then assigned to these groups.

Step by step procedure

1. Activate password protection (menu item "Options, Settings, General").

2. Select menu item "Options, User permissions".

3. This window shows different groups, e.g. employees and supervisors. Select a group and click the right mouse button. You may Add users Add groups Delete groups Change properties, e.g. access rights.

4. Select "Properties". Open the menu items of the datalogger or the database with double click. You may enable/disable each menu item for each group. Enabled menu items are checked .

5. Assign your users to the different groups.

Delete users

1. Activate password protection (menu item "Options, Settings, General").

2. Select menu item "Options, User permissions".

3. Select the user to be deleted, click with the right mouse button and select "Delete user".

30 • 4. Password Vesuv 3.0

Enter/modify password

Menu item "File, New login, Change password"

Enter your password for the first time or change it.

Entering your password for the first time

1. Select menu item "File, New login".

2. Select your user name.

3. Press button <Change password>.

4. Enter your password in "New password" and confirm it in "Confirm new password". "Old password" remains empty.

5. Enter your password once more in the "login" window.

6. You are now logged in with your access rights.

Menu item "File, New login"

The login window appears on start of the program if password protection is active. You may also make a new login while the program is running.

The status bar shows the currently logged in user:

Step by step procedure

1. Select a user.

2. Enter the correct password.

3. The program will then run with the access rights of the logged in user.

Vesuv 3.0 4. Password • 31

5. Datalogger

This chapter gives a detailed description of the datalogger.

Overview

The Datalogger communicates with the connected instruments:

• Determination data are received from the connected instruments and transferred to the database

• Reports can be printed out on the PC printer

• Instrument methods can be stored in the PC and re-

loaded into the instrument

• Calibration intervals, intervals for GLP tests and instrument service intervals can be monitored

• Keys and functions of the instruments can be locked

• Weighing data can be transferred to the instruments

Each connected instrument has its own device window, see page 40. This window contains all important information about the device window.

The most important commands can be found on the toolbar, see page 34.

What do you want to do?

Connect instruments, see page 35. Receive data, see page 35. Print reports, see page 48. Save or restore methods, see page 51. Activate monitoring functions, see pages 44 and 47. Lock instrument keys and functions, see page 49. Transmit weighing data to the instruments, see page 54.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 33

Datalogger toolbar

The buttons have the following meanings:

Starts the selected device window. The device window is ready to receive data.

Stops the selected device window. It is set to off-line. Data can no longer be received in Vesuv, but weighing data are still transferred to the instrument. The device window must be stopped for: . saving or restoring methods, . changing the database where the data are stored, . changing the RS port to which the instrument is connected.

Starts all device windows, i.e. the device windows are ready to receive data from the connected instruments.

Stops all device windows. The device windows are set off-line. Data can no longer be received. Before configuring device windows with the menu item "Device, Device manager" all device windows must be stopped.

Displays (opens) the database. Assigns the balance to the selected instrument, see

page 54. Confirms the monitoring functions, see page 46. Views the log file of the monitoring functions, see page

46. Views the balance log file, see page 54.

Tests the communication between instrument and PC. Reports can also be received and printed here without having to store them in the database.

Show data: the received data can be viewed here. Opens the dialog "Properties" of the selected device

window. Arranges overlapping device windows. Arranges the device windows under each other. Arranges the device windows beside each other.

Shows information about this program. Provides help for the dialog elements and screen areas.

34 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

How to start work with the Datalogger

If you cannot see any device windows on the Datalogger work bench (e.g. you don't have any configured and enabled device) then proceed as follows:

Step by step procedure

1. Open a (new) configuration: Menu item "File, Configuration, Open".

2. Enter a name for the configuration or select a name.

3. Define the instrument: Menu item "Device, Device manager", see page 36.

4. Set the connected devices correctly, see pages 8ff.

5. Carry out a test run.

Test run

1. Transmit a report from your instrument to Vesuv.

2. Does Vesuv receive data from your instrument? If it is receiving data then the device window shows the status

with . If no data are received: . check whether your device transmits reports; . check whether the RS parameters on your device have the same setting as in Vesuv; . check whether the cables have been plugged in correctly.

3. Are the received data OK? You can view the data with

. If the data are garbled: . send the report again; . check whether the RS parameters have been set correctly, including the handshake.

4. Open the database and check whether all the data which you require are present. Is a curve displayed? If not, transmit the measuring point list of the device. Are the raw reports stored? If you want to store raw reports then select those reports which you want to save, see page 48.

5. If you do not want to store the record created above in your database then delete it: Mark the data set and press <Del>.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 35

Device manager

Menu item "Device, Device manager". This menu item is only active when all device windows are

stopped (button ).

Configure instrument

If you are connecting devices for the first time:

1. See pages 8ff for cable connections and extended PC

If you already have connected instruments:

1. Stop all device windows (button ).

Further:

interfaces. Open a configuration: Menu item "File, Configuration, Open" and give your configuration a name.

2. Select the menu item "Device, Device manager".

3. Add a new instrument with the button . A balance is selected with the button .

4. A list of device types appears. Give the device a name and select the device type from the list.

5. The dialog for properties of the device window appears. From the sheet "Communication" select the port to which your instrument is connected. A balance must be connected directly to a COM port or via an extension board (not via the Softswitch).

6. Select the database in which the determinations with this device are to be stored, sheet "Database". Also check the database template. The database is created when the window "Device manager" is closed.

7. Exit from the dialog and test the connection to your instrument: press the button and carry out the <Auto

test>. If the button <Auto test> is inactive transmit a report from your instrument to Vesuv.

8. Make the necessary settings on the device, see pages 8ff.

36 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Delete/disable device window

Selected device windows can be deleted with the button , balances can be deleted with the button . This also de-

letes all device window settings. If you want to retain the device window properties you can

disable the device window by clicking . The device is then marked by ¨.

Add new instrument

Menu item "Device, Device manager, button or button

This menu item is only active when all device windows are stopped (button ).

Name Name of the device window. This name ap-

pears in the title bar of the individual device window.

Device Select your device type.

In this way you select the device driver.

Data of device driver This field describes the data of the de-

vice driver used. The field will be filled in as soon as a device type has been selected.

Port parameters

Menu items: "Device, Properties, Communication" and "Options, Softswitch"

Setting the port parameters for the COM ports. If you are working with the Softswitch then the parameters must only be set once for the Softswitch.

The port parameters can only be altered when the device window has been stopped (button ).

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 37

Recommended port parameter settings

• If possible use the standard values: 9600, 8, N, 1, HW.

• Handshake: hardware handshake.

• Those devices which are connected to the Softswitch

must work with the software handshake (SWChar).

38 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Softswitch

Menu item "Options, Softswitch".

You only need this menu item when your devices are connected to the PC via a Softswitch.

Important:

• Devices which are connected to the Softswitch must have their handshake set to SWChar.

• Balances and 756 and 737 KF Coulometers cannot be connected via a Softswitch.

• The Softswitch must be connected directly to a port of the computer (not via the port of an extension board, e.g. a Moxa board).

SOFT1 Softswitch which is connected to COM1 of the

PC. Activate the Softswitch with . The Softswitch is supplied with the following parameters as standard: 9600 baud 8 data bits Parity: none 1 stop bit If you use other parameters then these must be set with the <Parameter> button.

The instruments which are connected to this Softswitch are given the port names SOFT 1.1, Soft 1.2, SOFT 1.3, etc. They must work with the software handshake (SWChar).

SOFT2 Softswitch which is connected to COM2 of the

PC. The instruments which are connected to this Softswitch are given the port names SOFT 2.1, Soft 2.2, SOFT 2.3, etc.

SOFT3, SOFT4 Similar to above

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 39

Device windows for analytical instruments

Each analytical device which is connected has its own device window. This window shows the most important information about the device. When the window has been selected the device window functions can be operated with the right mouse button.

The name of the device window is shown in the title bar.

User An operator name can be selected or entered

here. In order for a name to be selected it must have been entered under the menu item "Options, Settings", see page 60.

Remark You can enter a comment which will be stored

in the database together with the determination data. The comment can be altered after the determination and can be appended to the last data set

in the database with the button (or menu item "Device, Append comment"). Any comment which may already exist will be overwrit-

ten.

Status Shows the current device window status. Titrations Shows the number of determinations which

have been received since the last time the de-

vice window was started in Vesuv.

Database Shows the name and path of the database in

which the determination data of the device win-

dow are stored.

At the bottom of the device window you can see

whether the instrument has been assigned a

balance and the name of the balance which has

been allocated. See page 54.

If the balance has been assigned automatically

then "Automatic" appears beside the balance

symbol.

At the bottom of the device window you can see

to which port the instrument is connected.

40 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Show received data

Menu item: "Device, Show data" Toolbar:

Keys: Ctrl+D Mouse: right mouse button in device window

The last data received in the device window will be displayed. The data can be printed out on the Windows standard

printer. You can also mark parts of the received data and copy them

into other programs via the clipboard.

In the lower part of the window you will find information about the cursor position, length of the selection, number of selected characters and the statistics of the received data.

Communication test

Menu item: "Device, Communication test" Toolbar:

Keys: Ctrl+T Mouse: right mouse button in device window

Tests the instrument - PC connection. Click the <Auto test> button. The query sent to the instrument and the answer from the instrument appear in the window.

If the <Auto test> button is gray, send a report from your device to Vesuv.

<Print> You can also use this window for receiving data

from the instrument which is not to be stored in the database. This data can be printed out.

<Delete> Deletes the contents of the window (buffer).

The position of the cursor or the selection is shown in the lowest line of the window.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 41

Extended communication test

Menu item "Options, Extended communication test" or Ctrl + Shift + T

Additional possibilities

Wait for line end in auto test

If your device does not send the line end auto-

matically (the device-specific line end is defined

in the device driver files) you can switch off

waiting for a line end.

Command You can send any command to the device. The

list of commands can be found on the green

pages of the corresponding Metrohm

“Instructions for use“ of the analytical devices.

Enter the command and press the <Send>

button.

Timeout Timeout for waiting for an answer from the in-

strument.

Add line end character to command

The PC automatically appends the character

sequence for the line end to the transmitted

data when the query is activated.

42 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Device window properties

General properties

Menu item: "Device, Properties, General" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

Device name The device name is shown in the device win-

dow title line.

Device driver The device driver data are shown in the lower

part of the window. The device driver can only be selected on adding a new device.

Communication

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Communication" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

Port Port to which the instrument is connected.

The <Parameters> button can be used to alter the communication parameters if the instrument is connected to a COM. To change the port the device window must first be stopped.

Parameters Description of the port parameters for instru-

ments which are connected to a PC port or to an extension board.

Timeout... Time in ms allowed to elapse after the Datalog-

ger has received the last character before data evaluation begins. If possible use the standard values for timeout.

Vesuv can send data to device

If this query is active ( ) then at the start the Datalogger will send some commands to the instrument. This query should only be deactivated when the device cannot receive any data, e.g. when the PC and balance are connected to the same RS interface via distribution plugs on the device.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 43

When you make new settings for the COM port or change it you should check the communication, see page 41.

Device monitoring

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Monitoring" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

The times for three different device conditions can be monitored: Calibration, GLP test and service interval. When the monitoring interval has elapsed a message is produced by the PC. The corresponding test is activated by .

When the monitoring function responds a message is produced in the lower left part of the window. This message can be edited with the <Message text> button.

<Edit dates> You can set the time interval or date to be

monitored, see below.

<Confirm test> When you have carried out the test you can

confirm it. Confirmation resets the time counter

to zero or produces a query for the next moni-

toring date, see page 46.

<Show log file> You can view the device monitoring log file,

see page 46.

<Message text> You can enter a message. This message

appears on the PC when the monitoring interval

has expired, see page 47.

Monitoring, editing dates

Menu item "Device, Properties, Monitoring, <Edit dates>"

This is where the dates for the device monitoring functions are edited. When the set date is reached a message is shown on the PC.

Interval

Select "Interval" if the monitoring is to respond at fixed time intervals, e.g. daily or weekly.

Interval Select:

. Hours

. Days

. Weeks

44 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

. Day of week, e.g. each Monday or each 2nd Monday . Day of month, e.g. every first day of the month When you alter the time interval the time counter is reset to zero.

Time of day Enter the time when the message is to appear.

The <now> button sets the current time.

Calculate first expiration date from

today: From the current date. If you select this

option the next date will be calculated immediately. This can be seen in the date list in the lower part of the window.

last date: From the last date set. If the corre-

sponding test has never been monitored then the date of the first start of the Vesuv Datalogger will be used.

last log file entry: From the deadline on which

the test was last carried out, i.e. the last date to have been protocolled for this test. If the test log file is still empty then the date of the first start of the Vesuv Datalogger will be used.

Fixed date

Select "Fixed date" when the monitoring is to respond on a particular day, e.g. on 1 May 1999.

Date Set the date. The <today> button sets the cur-

rent date.

Time of day Enter the time when the message should ap-

pear. The <now> button sets the current time.

Message repeating frequency

Repeat message each

Enter the frequency with which the message should appear. The message will be repeated until monitoring has been confirmed and/or a new date has been set. This setting applies to both incremental monitoring as well as monitoring to a fixed date.

Information about dates

Last log file entry of the currently activated test (calibration,

GLP test or service). If the test log file is still empty then the date of the first start of the Vesuv Datalogger will be used.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 45

Next expiration date The next date for the first appearance

of the message will be immediately calculated

when the dates are edited.

First repetition of message Deadline for the first repeat of

the message if the test is not carried out imme-

diately when the first message appears. This

deadline will be immediately calculated when

the dates are edited.

Monitoring, confirming and protocolling that test has been carried out

Menu item: "Device, Monitoring, Confirm test" Menu item: "Device, Properties, Monitoring, <Confirm test>"

confirm test has been carried out

view test protocol Mouse: right mouse button in device window, monitoring

You can confirm that the test has been carried out with the <Confirm test> button.

If a time interval has been entered for monitoring then confirmation will automatically reset the time counter to zero, i.e. the next message will appear when the same time interval has elapsed again.

If a fixed date has been entered for monitoring then you will be led directly into the dialog for entering a new date.

When a test has been carried out this is entered into a log file. This log file can be viewed and printed at any time: Menu item "Device, Monitoring, Show test log file" or Menu item "Device window, Properties, <Show log file>" or

The log file contains the last 1000 tests to have been carried out for the corresponding device in the existing configuration. All tests (calibrations, GLP tests and service) are listed in a common log file.

The log file can be printed out on the Windows standard printer.

46 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Message for monitoring functions

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Monitoring, <Message

text>"

Menu item: "Device window, Properties, Database, <abc>"

You can enter your own message text. The message will be shown on the PC when the corresponding monitoring function responds.

Database selection

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Database" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

Name Path and name of the database in which the

determination data are to be stored. With the button you can search through the directo-

ries. In order to change a database the device window must first be stopped.

Template Path and name of the template for the database

if a new database has to be created. For this entry the device window must first be stopped.

The standard directory for databases is set under the menu item "Options, Settings, Default Directories".

Monitoring of database size

Message if size... Monitoring the database size in which the

determination data are stored. Set the size according to the amount of free space available on the hard disk of your PC. With the <abc> button you can enter a text which is to appear when the preset size has been reached.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 47

Reports

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Reports" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

This is where you can define what is to happen with the reports sent from the devices to Vesuv. The functions are only active if the device window has already been activated once. If the selection fields are empty then exit the dialog "Device, Device manager" and open the window "Device, Properties, Reports" again.

Save, Raw reports: The marked raw reports are stored in

the database and can be viewed there and

printed out, provided that the corresponding raw

reports have been transmitted by the analytical

instrument.

The <All> button marks all reports; the <None>

button deactivates them all.

Print immediately: The marked raw reports are printed on

the PC printer immediately after the determina-

tion, provided that the corresponding raw re-

ports have been transmitted by the analytical

instrument.

The <All> button marks all reports; the <None>

button deactivates them all.

With the 726 Titroprocessor the raw reports

cannot be printed out directly after the determi-

nation. However, it is possible to print the raw

reports from the database.

Vesuv-Report:

The Vesuv report (including curve) is printed out

on the PC printer immediately after the determi-

nation.

48 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Options

Menu item: "Device, Properties, Options" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in device window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

General

Start device automatically upon opening

The device window automatically enters the receiving mode when you open the Datalogger or when you load a new configuration.

User name from device

This option can be used to force instruments which transmit a user name, e.g. 726 Titroprocessor, to ensure that the user name must come from the device. A user name which is entered in the device window of the PC will be ignored. If the option is not active then the user name will always come from the PC.

The following functions are only active when the device window has already been activated once. If the selection fields are empty then exit the dialog "Device, Device manager" and open the window "Device, Properties, Options" again. With the 726 Titroprocessor the following functions cannot be used.

Lock on device: The selected keys and device functions are

locked on the connected device. <All> activates them all, <None> deactivates them all. The function "Vesuv can send data to device" under the sheet "Communication" must be activated. The commands are sent when the Datalogger is started, when a new configuration is opened and when the options in the dialog window "Properties" are accepted, if settings for locking and transmission functions have been altered. If no locking functions are active then the corresponding functions are made accessible again here.

Send to device: You can transmit free commands to the

connected device here. The list of commands for your device can be found in the green section of the "Instructions for use" of the corresponding device. Example: Writing text in the 1st display line of the device.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 49

1. Mark the empty box and press the button .

2. Give the command a name, e.g. "Hello in

1st line".

3. Enter the command which is to be trans-

mitted to the instrument, e.g. &I.A.D.L1"Hallo". When the command is to be transmitted, if the box is , enter the command in the input line "Command for checked". If it is entered in the input line "...not checked" then the command will be transmitted to the device when the box is not active. The function "Vesuv can send data to device" under "Communication" must be activated. The commands are sent when the Datalogger is started, when a new configuration is opened and when the options in the dialog window "Properties" are accepted, if settings for locking and transmission functions have been altered. The entries can be deleted with a doubleclick on the corresponding instrument line or

processed with the button and deleted with .

50 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Device methods

Method backup

Menu item: "Device, Save methods" Mouse: right mouse in device window

The methods of the connected devices can be stored in the PC. Methods from Titrinos, the 756 KF Coulometer and the 730 Sample Changer can be stored. For Sample Changers the methods and the configuration (with the position tables of the special racks) are stored.

If the menu item is gray, the instrument must first be stopped ( or no methods from the instrument can be stored.

Before you backup the methods, make sure that

• the device is in its inactive basic state

• no data transfer is taking place

• the instrument has no RS error (e.g. error 42)

• the device window is stopped (i.e. "Not ready, off line:

button )

• the option "Vesuv can send data to device" has been activated under "Properties, Communication"

Note: before the methods are stored, Vesuv will stop the analytical device. Any waiting reports will be lost!

Step by step procedure

1. Select the memory area (internal method memory and/or memory card) of the device you want to back up. Make sure that the selection is provided with and highlighted.

2. Read in the names of the methods and/or directories: <Refresh selected directory> button. When the memory card is read out you can select whether only the directories are to be read out or the directories with your methods.

3. Select the methods which you want to backup. You can open the directories with a double-click. When you mark a directory then all the methods it contains are also marked automatically.

4. Enter a file name.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 51

5. Use the <Save methods in file> button to store the methods in the file. This procedure may take some time.

The standard directory for the methods is set under the menu item "Options, Settings, Default directories".

Presentation options

Select methods After they have been read in all the meth-

ods are marked automatically. This option is used for e.g. method backup.

Show open directories

After they have been read in all the directories are shown open, so that the individual methods can be directly marked for storing.

Restore methods

Menu item: "Device, Restore methods" Mouse: right mouse in device

Methods which are stored in a PC can be copied into a connected device. Methods from Titrinos, the 756 KF Coulometer and 730 Sample Changer can be restored. For Sample Changers the methods and the configuration (with the position tables of the special racks) are restored.

If the menu item is gray the instrument must first be stopped ( or no methods from the instrument can be restored.

Before you restore the methods, make sure that

• the device is in its inactive basic state

• no data transfer is taking place

• the instrument has no RS error (e.g. error 42)

• the device window is stopped (i.e. "Not ready, off line:

button )

• the option "Vesuv can send data to device" has been activated under "Properties, Communication"

Note: before the methods are restored Vesuv will stop the analytical device. Any waiting reports will be lost!

52 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Step by step procedure

1. Select the file which contains the methods.

2. Use the <Read file> button to read in the method and directory names of the file.

3. Select the methods you want to copy into the device.

4. Enter the target in the device for the methods:

Original directory: The methods will be copied into the

same memory area/directories where they were originally. This option is suitable for e.g. restoring backups.

Internal method memory: The methods will be copied into

the internal method memory of the device.

Directory on memory card: The methods will be copied

into a memory card directory. Enter the name of this directory.

5. Use the <Restore methods in device> button to copy the methods into the device. This procedure may take some time.

The standard directory for the methods is set under the menu item "Options, Settings, Default directories.

Presentation options

Select methods After the file has been read in all the

methods are marked automatically. This option is used for e.g. method backup.

Show open directories

After the file has been read in all the directories are shown open, so that the individual methods can be marked for copying into the device.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 53

Balance window

Overview

Each connected balance receives its own balance window. The window shows the most important information about the balance. If the window has been selected the device window functions can be operated with the right mouse button.

Data You can see the data which have been received

Status Shows the current device window status.

The name of the balance is given in the title bar.

from the balance here.

In the lower bar you can see to which device the balance has been assigned. "Automatic" is shown for balances which are assigned automatically. For manual allocations the color of the lower bar can be selected, see page 56. If a balance has been assigned to a device this bar will have the same color as the device.

In the bar at the bottom of the window you can see to which port the balance is connected.

Balance log file

Menu item: "Balance window, Monitoring, Show balance log

file"

Toolbar: Mouse: right mouse button in balance window,

monitoring, balance log file

If you transmit weighing data to a device then this will be entered in a log file. This log file can be viewed and printed out at any time: The required data lines must be marked for them to be printed out.

The log file contains the last 1000 weighing data.

54 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Options

Menu item: "Balance window, Properties, Options" Toolbar:

Mouse: right mouse button in balance window Keyboard: Alt + Enter

General

Start balance window automatically upon opening

The balance window is automatically ready to receive data when the Datalogger is opened or if a new configuration is loaded.

Assignment to device

Automatic assignment

The balance is automatically assigned to a device. The possibility is open for Titrinos and KF Coulometers.

Manual assignment The balance can be manually assigned

to a device. Precondition: The device can work together with a balance.

Assignment color: Select the color for the lower

bar of the balance and the device it is allocated to.

Further properties

General, see page 43. Communication, see page 43. Monitoring, see page 44.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 55

Assign balance manually

Menu item: "Device, Balance, Assign balance manually" Toolbar:

Mouse: Move the balance with the left mouse button to

the required device window. Click inside the balance window and keep the mouse button pressed down. As soon as you are positioned above an device window which can receive weighing data the cursor changes to a symbol "Balance->to instrument". You can release the mouse button: The balance is assigned to the device.

Use this command to assign the balance manually to an analytical device. The balance is then permanently allocated to this device.

The balance can be assigned to the following instruments: Titrinos, KF Coulometer, 726 Titroprocessor. If the menu item is gray then the corresponding instrument cannot be provided with weighing data.

Make sure that the balance is assigned to a device when you transmit weighing data!

In order for the device to be able to receive weighing data, Vesuv must be able to transmit data to the device.

Step by step procedure:

1. Select the device window to which you want to assign the balance.

2. Assign the balance (right mouse button, balance). If more than one balance is connected then select one of them.

3. In device window status bar you can see the balance assignment:

56 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Assign balance automatically

Menu item "Device, Balance, Assign balance automatically"

Use this command to assign the balance automatically to an analytical device. The balance will be assigned to that device which, after the start of the determination, requires sample data (sample identification, weight value or weight units) in a request. In this way the balance can be used with several devices at the same time.

The balance can be automatically assigned to the following devices: Titrinos, KF Coulometer. If the menu item is gray the balance cannot be automatically assigned to the corresponding device.

In order for the device to be able to receive weighing data, Vesuv must be able to transmit data to the instrument.

Step by step procedure:

1. Select the balance window. Click the right mouse button.

2. Select the menu item "Properties, Options", Assignment to device: Automatic assignment

3. Select the device window to which you want to automatically assign the balance, go to the menu item "Device, Balance, Assign balance automatically". In the status bar of this device "Automatic" can be seen beside the balance symbol.

4. Modify the methods on your instrument so that the sample weight is requested after the start of the determination. For back-weighing the request for the sample weight is sufficient. For direct weighing the sample weight and the units must be requested so that you can position the sample at the titration place after weighing.

Rules

• Identifications cannot be transmitted from the balance to the device.

• Sample weight: Only the numerical value with sign (no units) will be transmitted to the device.

• The timeouts of the device and balance must be the same length ("Properties of the device/balance window, Communication").

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 57

• At the end of the titration wait at least until the timeout has elapsed before you start up the device again, as otherwise the balance will not be assigned.

• Automatic assignment of the balance is not possible if you want to fill a silo memory in the device. In such a case the balance must be assigned manually.

• The assignment of several balances automatically is not recommended. In contrast, operation with one automatically assigned balance which serves several devices and one balance which is manually assigned can be a good idea.

Detach balance

Menu item: "Device, Balance, Detach balance" Toolbar:

Use this command to detach a balance, i.e. so that it is not assigned to any device window. This command is only active when the balance has been manually assigned.

If you want to assign the balance to a different device window you can do this directly with the command "Assign balance" without needing to detach the balance first.

58 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Datalogger options

General

Menu item "Options, Settings, General"

Device windows

Show device driver The file name of the device driver used

Animated status display

Vesuv Database

Start automatically upon start of datalogger

is shown in the title bar together with the device name.

The status display is shown animated (i.e. mobile).

The database is also automatically started when the Datalogger is started.

Refresh data on each entry

The database is automatically updated with every new entry which the Datalogger makes. This setting must be active if you want to automatically export from the database, see page

78.

Others

Save view on exit When the Datalogger is finished the po-

sitions of the device windows, their condition, etc. is stored.

Check user permissions

The password protection is activated, see pages 29ff.

Default directories

Menu item "Options, Settings, Default directories"

Select the standard directories for the databases and the method backup files.

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 59

Management of user names

Menu item "Options, Settings, User names"

User names are used for:

• Users in the device window, see page 40.

• Users to confirm a device test has been carried out, see

page 46.

Communication

Menu item "Options, Settings, Communication"

Here you can set the maximum number of COM ports which are available on your computer (e.g. 2 on the computer + 8 on a Moxa board = 10). The ports are available in the selection list for instrument connections.

Note: Softswitch connections are counted separately (SOFT

1.1, SOFT 1.2, etc.).

60 • 5. Datalogger Vesuv 3.0

Configurations

Menu item "File, Configuration"

A configuration contains

• the properties of all device windows which are contained in the list "Device, Device manager"

• the Softswitch data

• the position and size of the windows

• the status of the active device windows

Open When the configuration is opened the same

commands are sent to the device windows as when the Datalogger is started. Open is also used when a new configuration is to be created.

Save as The configuration is stored in Vesuv under a

new name.

Rename The configuration is renamed in Vesuv. Delete The configuration is deleted in Vesuv.

Save as file The configuration(s) are stored in a file.

This means you can make a backup copy.

When the configurations are transferred to a

different computer then it may be necessary to

adapt the paths for the databases, see page 47.

Restore from file Used to restore the configuration(s).

Vesuv 3.0 5. Datalogger • 61

6. Database

This chapter gives a detailed description of the Vesuv database.

Overview

The database shows your determinations. Several windows display different aspects of your data sets:

Determinations The determinations table is the main win-

dow. It summarizes the most important data of

your determinations, see page 65.

If you close the determinations table, the data-

base will also be closed.

Curve The curve window displays the curve(s) of your

determination, see page 82.

Variables+formulas In the variables+formulas variables and

formulas are shown, see page 88. You need

this window if you wish to recalculate results:

You can edit variables and formulas.

Endpoints The endpoints window gives a list of endpoints

and other variables (such as fix EP's, pK/HNP,

rates etc.) which are evaluated by the analytical

device, see page 87.

Raw reports You may view raw reports in this window. Raw

reports are sent directly by your analytical de-

vices. In order to have raw reports saved in the

database, they have to be stored from the da-

talogger, see page 92.

What would you like to do?

Export data, see page 78. Select data, see pages 65 and 70. Print, see page 74. Recalculate results, see page 87.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 63

Toolbar of the database

The buttons have the following meaning:

Opens a new database. Opens an existing database.

Prints the selected window. Prints the Vesuv report of the selected data sets. The

data sets are selected in the determinations table, see page 74.

Exports the selected data sets, see page 78. Cuts the selection and stores it in the clipboard. Copies the selection into the clipboard. Pastes the content of the clipboard. Calls the datalogger. Opens the datalogger if it was not

already open. Opens the curve window. The curves of the selected data sets are overlaid. Quit

this representation by pressing this button again (on/off button).

Shows the properties of the selected window: . Table of determinations, see page 65. . Raw reports, see page 92. . Curve, see page 82.

The selected data sets are recalculated, see page 87. The selected data sets are reset to their original values.

Gives information about this program. Shows help for dialog items and screen sections.

64 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Determinations table

The determinations table gives an overview on your determinations. Each line of this table represents a data set. You may modify the representation of this table, see pages 66ff.

The status bar shows the number of data sets as well as active filters.

Selecting data sets

1 data set Click in a field of this data set. Data set from...to Press <Shift> and click the data sets

Several data sets Press <Ctrl> and click each data set.

Navigation

is done with the cursor or with menu item "Edit, Go to": <Alt><End> To the last data set

from...to.

<Alt><Home> To the first data set etc.

Sort, find, filter data sets

Sort Click in the gray column header. You sort the

data sets by the content of the selected column,

see page 70.

Menu item "Data, Sort" or right mouse button Filter The table shows only data sets which meet the

conditions of the filter, e.g. data sets with a re-

sult greater than 4 and with a date before the

year 2000, see page 70.

Menu item "Data, Filter" or right mouse button Find Searches for a string in the selected column,

see page 72.

Menu item "Data, Find" or right mouse button

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 65

Printing, exporting, copying data

Printing determinations table

Print the determinations table directly with ( ). You may also copy selected data sets into the

Clipboard and print them in another program

(e.g. Word or Excel).

Print Vesuv report Print Vesuv reports from selected data

sets with , see page 74.

Export data The selected data sets can be exported as text

files (*.txt), Excel files (*.csv) or as Vesuv databases, see page 78. Menu item "File, Export data"

Copy data Copy data sets into the clipboard and paste

them into other programs.

Additional functions concerning several data sets

Overlay curves The curves of the selected data sets are

overlaid with , see page 86.

Statistics Calculation of mean and standard deviation of

the selected data sets, see page 91.

Recalculating results

Results can be recalculated ( ) and endpoints can be graphically re-evaluated, see page 87. Menu item "Data, Recalculate results" and "curve, right mouse button".

Representation of the determinations table

The sequence of the columns, their width, header and property can be modified as well as their visibility.

Sequence and width of the columns

Sequence Click with the left mouse button in the gray col-

umn header, keep button pressed and drag column to the desired position.

Width Set the cursor in the gray column header onto a

grid line. The cursor becomes a double arrow. In this state you can modify the width to the left of the cursor.

66 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Visibility of columns and column header

Menu item "View, Properties", or right mouse button, "Properties" with selected determinations table. A list of the possible columns appears.

Visibility Columns with appear in the determinations

table.

Tip: The fewer columns the faster sort, select

etc.

Header Click with the left mouse button in the line

where you wish to edit the header. The line will

be selected. Click again in the same line to edit

the column header.

If the list doesn't contain the desired item, you

can open a further list of items, see page 68.

Make sure that you selected an item which you

don't need before pressing the button <More>.

The line in the first list will be overwritten by the

new selection.

If you don't find the desired item in either list,

you can edit the list, see page 68.

You also need this button if you want to change

the properties of a column, e.g. switching on/off

statistics calculations of the columns or repre-

sentation of a column as string/number..

Make sure that you selected an item which you

don't need before pressing the button <Edit>.

The line in the first list will be overwritten by the

new selection.

Special columns

M This column indicates modified data sets, see

page 87.

0 data set has not been modified in the data-

base.

1 data set has been modified in the database,

i.e. variables have been edited, endpoints have been graphically re-evaluated and/or recalculation of results has been carried out.

Original This column indicates whether the report from

the analytical device was an original or repro-

duced report.

0 Original report.

1 Reproduced report

Monitoring This column indicates whether a monitoring

function was active in the datalogger when this

data set was recorded, see page 44.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 67

c Calibration was due.

g GLP test was due. s Service was due.

More columns of the determinations table

Menu item "View, Properties, More" with selected determinations table

If you don't find the selected item in the first list, a second list appears.

Step by step procedure

1. Select the determinations table and menu item "View, Properties".

2. Select an item you don't need from this first list. This item will be overwritten by the new selection.

3. Press button <More>.

4. Select from this extended list the desired item. Return to the initial window with <OK>.

5. Edit the column header if necessary: Select the new line and click again. You can now edit the header.

6. Represent the column in the determinations table ( ).

7. Repeat steps 2-6 for each new column..

If you quit the window "Determinations, Properties" with <OK>, the list will be sorted alphabetically

Edit columns of determinations table

Menu item "View, Properties, Edit" with selected determinations table

If you don't find the desired item neither in the first nor in the extended list, you can add new items.

Here you may also modify the properties of the columns: String/number, switching on/off statistics calculations of the column.

68 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Step by step procedure

1. Select a data set, which contains the desired item, and go to menu item "View, Properties".

2. Select an item you don't need from the list. This item will be overwritten by the new selection.

3. Press button <Edit>. A window with the following table appears:

Title Enter the column header. Table Select the table of the database, which contains

the item. The table "Vars" will usually contain the desired item. Values which are evaluated by the analytical device (such as EP, rates, PK/HNP etc.) are in the table "PointRes". The other table contain information about the device and the method.

Sub-determination Set 1.

For 726 Titroprocessor set the corresponding subdetermination (1...5). If you need information about the device (Device type etc.), set 0.

Name Select the name of the item.

The list contains all items, which are present in the selected data set and in the table you selected above. If you don't find the desired item, try to change the table.

Property Select the property of the item.

Usually you have to select "Value" (also for strings) or possibly "Mean" (if you wish to represent the mean which has been calculated by your analytical device).

Type Select the data type (String/Number).

This selection may change the sort type.

Statistics If you selected type "Number", you may acti-

vate statistics calculation for this column ( ).

4. Quit the window with <OK> and represent the column ( ).

5. Repeat steps 2-4 for each new item.

If you quit the window "Determinations, Properties" with <OK>, the list will be sorted alphabetically

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 69

Data management

Sort

Menu item "Data, Sort" or right mouse button, "Sort" with selected determinations table

The data sets are sorted by date/time if you never sorted otherwise.

Sort remains active on closing and opening a database.

The sort type depends on the data type in the corresponding column:

• Strings are sorted alphabetically

• Numbers are sorted according to their sizes

You may change the data type "String/number", see page 68.

Quick sorting

• Click in the gray column header. The data sets will be sorted ascending according to the content of this column.

• Click the right mouse button in a column. A window appears where you can select ascending/descending sorting.

Multiple sorting

You may sort the data sets according to several columns. The list of sort criteria follows the sequence of the columns in the determinations table. The sequence of activated sort criterias corresponds to the sequence in the list.

1. Select menu item "Data, Sort"

2. Double click on the column, which should be a sort criteria and select ascending/descending.

3. Double click on the next column etc.

Sort on/off

You may switch on/off sorting with menu item "Data, Sort on".

70 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Filter

Menu item "Data, Filter" or right mouse button, "Filter" with selected determinations table

The determinations table shows only those data sets which meet the filter criteria. An active filter is indicated in the status bar of the database.

Quick filter

1. Click with the right mouse button on a field, which contains the value for filtering.

2. Select "Filter".

3. Only those data sets will be displayed which contain this value.

Examples: Filter data sets with method name "Chloride".

Filter data sets of user "Boss".

Edit filter

1. Select menu item "Data, Filter" and press button "Edit".

2. The window "Edit filter" appears:

Column Select the column for filtering. Filter Select the filter criteria. Filter criteria depend on

the data type of the selected column.

Special filters:

<>: unequal

empty: The field is empty not empty: The field is not empty

Special filters for strings:

like: With this filter criteria you may use stand-in

characters in a string. ? any character (one) * no or several characters # any number (one) [string list] one character out of the string list,

e.g. [A-Za-z] means all capitals and minuscules

[!string list] one character which is not given in

the string list

Special filters for data/time:

last X days: Filters data sets with dates between

the current date and the date which is X days back. Example: Data sets from the current date:

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 71

Value = 0.

Time=, Time<...: Filter for time only without

date, e.g. Time<12:00:00 (data sets from 00:00:01 to 11:59:59)

Value Value for the filter criteria. Link For multiple filtering:

And: Data sets which meet all filter criteria. Or: Data sets which meet either one or the other

filter criteria.

Filters can be saved and loaded.

Filter on/off

Menu item "Data, Filter on". An active filter is indicated in the status bar of the database.

Filters remain active on closing/opening the Vesuv database. If you open a different database, filters will be switched off

automatically.

72 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Find

Menu item "Data, Find" or right mouse button, "Find" with selected determinations table

Search for a string in the selected column.

Quick find

1. Click with the right mouse button in a field, which contains the string to find.

2. Select "Find".

3. The next data set which contains this value will be found.

4. Continue search with <F3>.

Edit find

1. Select menu item "Data, Find"

2. A window appears where you can edit search criteria.

Find Enter the string to be found. You may also use

stand-in characters: ? any character (one) * no or several characters # any number (one) [string list] one character out of the string list,

e.g. [A-Za-z] means all capitals and minuscules

[!string list] one character which is not given in

the string list

Column Select the column to be searched. DirectionSelect the direction for the search.

3. With <OK>, the next data set will be found which meets the search criteria.

4. Continue search with <F3>.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 73

Printing

Printing determinations table

Menu item "File, Print" or with selected determinations table

The whole determinations table is printed. In order to have see the whole content of the columns on the printout, it may be better (depending on the printer) to adjust a greater width on the screen than seems necessary.

If you wish to print reports see pages 74 and 48.

Printing of selected data sets

1. Select the data sets to be printed.

2. Copy these data sets into the clipboard (<Ctrl>+<C> or menu item "Edit, Copy").

3. Paste the content of the clipboard in another program. Examples: Word: You may use the Word function "Table, Convert text to table". Excel: The data are directly put into Excel tables.

Printing Vesuv reports

Menu item "File, Report", <Ctrl>+<R> or with selected data sets in the determinations table

Prints the Vesuv report of the selected data sets. The report template which is used can be set in menu item "Options, Settings, General".

Vesuv reports are printed on the Windows standard printer.

Selecting a report template

Report templates are available in different languages and for different applications (in the directory ..\Vesuv\Databases\Templates):

Report English report template, suitable for potenti-

ometric titrations.

Report_logo English report template with company logo,

see below. Suitable for potentiometric titrations.

74 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Report_header English report template with title, suitable for

potentiometric titrations. You may change the title with a text editor (e.g. Notepad).

Report_Crv_Txt English report template. The curve will be

printed before the endpoints. Suitable for potentiometric titrations.

Report_KF English report template suitable for KF deter-

minations.

Report_Meter English report template suitable for pH Meters

and Conductometers.

Report_f French report template, suitable for potenti-

ometric titrations.

Report_sp Spanish report template, suitable for potenti-

ometric titrations.

Report_d German report template, suitable for potenti-

ometric titrations.

You may also add your own report templates, see page 76.

1. Select menu item "Options, Settings, General, Report template" and press button .

2. Select a report template.

Report template with company logo

1. Create a file "logo.gif", which contains your company logo.

2. Overwrite the existing file in the directory ..Vesuv\Databases\Templates with your own "logo.gif" file.

3. Select the report template Report_logo.htm (menu item "Options, Settings, General").

4. If you company logo is distorted in the printout: Open the file Report_logo.htm with a text editor (e.g. Notepad) and change the size of the logo in line 4, IMG USEMAP: "WIDTH" and "HEIGHT".

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 75

Creating your own report templates

Report templates are *.htm files. If you wish to create your own report templates, you best use

an existing template and open it with a text editor. Combine if possible parts of already existing templates.

Modifying texts

1. Open an existing template with a text editor (e.g. Notepad).

2. Search the text to be replaced with the "Search/Find" function of your text editor.

3. Modify the text.

4. Save the template with a new name (usually in the directory ..\Vesuv\Databases\Templates).

Enlarge/reduce curve size in report

1. Open an existing template with a text editor (e.g. Notepad).

2. Search the text "object classid" with the "Search/Find" function of your text editor.

3. In this line you will se the entries "width=80%" and "height 30=%". A smaller number means smaller width or height, resp. of the curve.

4. Save the template with a new name (usually in the directory ..\Vesuv\Databases\Templates).

Delete report lines

1. Open an existing template with a text editor (e.g. Notepad).

2. Search the text of the line to be deleted with the "Search/Find" function of your text editor.

3. Move from the position of this text up to the next <TR> and down to the next </TR>.

4. Delete from <TR> to </TR>.

5. Save the template with a new name (usually in the directory ..\Vesuv\Databases\Templates).

76 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Adding new report lines

1. Open e.g. the template Report_KF.htm with a text editor (e.g. Notepad).

2. Search the text "Titer".

3. Move from the position of the text "Titer" up the next <TABLE.

4. Move from the position of the text "Titer" down the next </TABLE>.

5. Copy the text from <TABLE to </TABLE>.

6. Open the template which is closest to your wishes and search in this template for "Results:</b></caption>.

7. Move from this position down to the next </TABLE> and paste the content of your clipboard after </TABLE>.

8. You have now added 4 new report lines: Titer, Blank, Drift and Drift time. Each report line begins with <TR> and ends with </TR>.

9. Edit report line 1: Titer. This report line consists of 4 items, each of them begins with <TD and ends with </TD>. The first item contains the variable name from the database. You see this name under "View, Properties, Edit". Replace the first text "Titer" by this name. The second text "Titer" stands for the text which is to appear in the printout. Replace this text by the text you wish to have. Replace the text "Titer" twice by the variable name in the second and forth item.

10. Delete the report lines which are not needed from <TR> to </TR>.

Printing raw reports

1. Open the window "Raw reports" (menu item "View, Show raw reports").

2 Select the window "Raw reports".

3. Print the content of this window with .

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 77

Export data

The selected data sets can be exported to other Vesuv databases, to other programs or to a LIMS.

Exporting data is triggered with the button <Export>. If you wish to modify export settings without exporting data, press <Save>, then <Cancel>.

Export settings are valid for all Vesuv databases.

Step by step procedure

1. Select the data sets to be exported in the determinations table.

2. Check the export settings if necessary.

3. Trigger the export with .

Export settings

Menu item "File, Export data"

Type Export to a file of type

Vesuv file (*.mvd): Export into another Vesuv

database.

Text file (*.txt): Export as ASCII text with se-

lectable separator. For text files, you should check the settings.

CSV file (*.csv): Export e.g. to Excel. You

should check the settings.

File Enter a directory and a filename. You may se-

lect the filename with . Export to file or file&Port has to be selected.

Port Export directly to a ComPort. Enter the pa-

rameters of this port, button . Export to Port or file&Port has to be selected.

Options

Append dataIf the selected export file already exists, the

data will be appended.

Delete data after export The exported data will be deleted in

the Vesuv database after the export. Note: You shouldn't export data automatically and delete them after exporting if you are printing reports immediately from the datalogger.

Automatic export The data will be exported automatically

as soon as they are entered into the Vesuv database.

78 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Prerequisites for automatic export:

• The database has to be open. If you have several analytical devices connected to Vesuv and if you wish to export all data automatically, all devices must therefore write into the same database.

• Activate refresh data in the datalogger, see page 59.

No.of retries Enter the number of retries for exporting before

an error message appears. Set a higher number if the device for the export is not accessible temporarily.

Export settings

Menu item "File, Export data, Settings"

Export settings are only necessary for text (*.txt) and CSV files (*.csv). They include the selection of the items to be exported as well as data separators.

Export settings can be saved and loaded.

Export tables

Determinations Data of the determinations table.

If you selected the export of the determinations table, you can additionally select each column of the determinations table.

Sub-determinations Contains mode (DET, MET) and meas-

ured quantity. Table of sub-determinations for 726 Titroproc-

essor.

Variables Tables of variables and formulas. Endpoints Table of evaluated variables such as EP's, Fix

EP's, rates, pK/HNP etc.

Measuring point lists Measuring point lists. Raw reports Raw reports of the analytical devices.

Include field names The field names (column headers) are

exported together with each data set.

Field separator Separator between data fields, for text files

only.

\t Tabulator

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 79

Data set separator Separator between data sets, for text

files only. \r CR \n LF

Start block Introducing string. This string is exported once

at the beginning of each export package. Example: $B\n (\n means LF, see above)

End block End string. This string is exported once at the

end of each export package.

Export formats

Date, time and numbers are exported according to the Regional setting of Windows (Control Panel).

The following field names of the database are used:

Sub-determinations (for 726 Titroprocessor)

Determ Internal identification of the data set. Sub Number of sub-determination (1...5). Name Name of sub-determination. Mode Mode of the (sub)-determination, e.g. DET. Quantity Measured quantity of the (sub)-determination,

e.g. pH.

Title Tittle of the sub-determination as used in the

Curve.

Variables

Determ Internal identification of the data set. Sub Number of sub-determination (1...5). Name1 Name of the variable, e.g. RS1 or C21. This

name is used for calculations in the formula.

Decimals Number of decimals, e.g. for results. Formula Calculation formula. Mean Mean, calculated by the analytical device. MeanN Number of individual determinations for the

mean of the analytical device.

Name Name of the variable, e.g. Titer or pH(init) RelStd Relative standard deviation as calculated by the

analytical device.

80 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Std Standard deviation as calculated by the analyti-

cal device.

Unit Unit of the variable, e.g. unit of the result. Value Value of the variable, e.g. "5" or "stop volume

reached".

Endpoints

Determ Internal identification of the data set. Sub Number of sub-determination (1...5). Point Running number of evaluated point. Name Name of the evaluated point, e.g. EP1 or C51.

This name is used for calculations in the for-

mula.

Label Label of this point in the curve.

Then the properties and units of this point follow, e.g. Meas (measured quantity), Unit (unit of measured quantity); Volume, Unit (unit of volume) etc.

Raw reports

Determ Internal identification of the data set. Sub Number of sub-determination (1...5). Name Name of the report, e.g. Formula Report Text of the raw report as sent by the analytical

device.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 81

Curve

Menu item "View, Show curve" or

Opens the curve window. The curve can be printed with . Note: Curve can only be displayed if the analytical device

sends a measuring point list.

The following menu items are accessible with the right mouse button:

ReevaluationThe curves can be evaluated graphically, see

page 87.

Navigator The navigator is only used when the determina-

tion contains several curves, e.g. determinations with the 726 Titroprocessor with subdeterminations. You can browse through the sub-determination curves with the navigator.

Undo zoom Used to switch off the zoom function.

Press the left mouse button and hold it down in order to define that section of a curve which is to be zoomed. When you release the left mouse

button the section will be zoomed.

Copy The curve is copied into the clipboard. Properties With "Properties" it is possible to configure the

curve presentation, see page below.

Data for curve display

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Data

Selection of the data to be displayed. General settings for the display.

The settings apply to all curves in the database with the same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

X value Quantity to be shown on the horizontal axis (=X

axis).

The quantity shown can be renamed in the in-

put field. The axis of the curve will be labeled

with this name.

82 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Note: If you rename the axis label then the name

of the quantity shown will also be renamed.

1st Y value Quantity to be shown on the vertical axis (=Y

axis). Renaming the quantity: see under "X axis".

2nd Y value 2nd quantity to be shown on the same X axis,

i.e. 2 superimposed curves will be shown. With "None" only 1 curve will be shown. Renaming the quantity: see under "X axis".

Main title Title which will be shown in the 1st line. The title

only applies to the currently selected curve.

Subtitle Title which will be shown in the 2nd line. The ti-

tle only applies to the currently selected curve. If curves are overlaid the 2nd title appears as the legend.

Show legend Displays the legend in which the curve colors

are assigned to the quantities shown.

Show subtitle Displays the subtitles. Show measuring points Measuring points are marked on

the curve. This is only possible when curve

smoothing is switched off.

Smoothing Switches on curve smoothing. This can be ad-

vantageous for curve evaluation, etc.

Show original too Displays the unsmoothed original curve.

In this way you can see how well the smoothing

process reproduces your curve.

X, Y Smoothing factors.

Higher value means more smoothing.

X: Smoothing for X axis.

Y: Smoothing for Y axis

The smoothing factors may help for parallel

evaluations. If you find too many endpoints you

should smooth more. The smoothing factor of

the volume axis should remain small (0.01). For

the measuring axis, you may try to increase

smoothing from 0.01 to 0.1, 1, 10, 100, 1000.

If the original curve differs too much from the

smoothed curve, you should decrease smooth-

ing.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 83

Curve colors, fonts

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Curve

Settings for showing the curve of a single determination: color, symbol for measuring point display.

The settings apply to all curves in the database with the same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

"Automatic" sets the standard setting.

Manual

For "Overlay curves", the manual settings do not apply.

Curve Select the curve whose settings you want to al-

ter. Curve 1 shows the quantity Y1, curve 2 ap-

plies to Y2.

Color Color of this curve. Symbol for measuring points Symbol with which the meas-

uring points on the curve are to be shown.

Curve scaling

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Scaling

Settings for scaling the curve. The settings apply to all curves in the database with the

same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

X axis

Auto Scales the curve automatically. Manual From...To: Scaling from ... to.

Major: Number of subdivisions on the axis.

Minor: Number of subdivisions within a main di-

vision. 1st Y axis Same as X axis

Show 2nd Y axis Shows a second scale on the right vertical

axis.

2nd Y axis Same as X axis

84 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Curve grid

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Grid

Settings for displaying the grid lines. The settings apply to all curves in the database with the

same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

Show grid Displays the grid lines. Grid type The grid can be shown only for the X or Y axis,

for both axes or not shown at all.

Grid style Type of grid line display. Grid & scale color Color of grid lines shown.

EP display in the curve

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Endpoints

Display of endpoints in the curve. The settings apply to all curves in the database with the

same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

Symbol Symbol for EPs to be graphically evaluated. Color Color for all EPs. Size Symbol size for all EPs. Show evaluation lines The evaluation lines for the re-

evaluation are retained and are also printed out.

Labels

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Labeling

Selects the fonts, font sizes and font colors for titles and labels of the curve.

The settings apply to all curves in the database with the same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 85

Curve options

Right mouse button on the curve, Properties, Options

Selects the various colors for showing the curves. The settings apply to all curves in the database with the

same mode, e.g. for all curves recorded in the DET mode.

Curve overlay

Menu item "View, Curve overlay" or

Step by step procedure

1. Open the curve window ( ).

2. Select the data sets for curve overlay in the determinations table.

3. Activate the mode "Curve overlay" ( ).

4. You may add more data sets for curve overlay (select these data sets) or you may remove data sets from curve overlay (unselect them).

5. Quit the mode "Curve overlay" by pressing again.

Navigator

Right mouse button on the curve, Navigator

With the Navigator you can select the number of the curve if there are several sub-determinations within the data set. You can leaf backwards and forwards through the curves.

You can also fix the Navigator on a curve of a subdetermination, i.e. if you select a new data set then the curve of this sub-determination will be shown automatically. In order to leaf through the curves "Fix" must be switched off.

86 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Re-evaluation, recalculation

Right mouse button on the curve, Re-evaluation

The curves can be evaluated graphically.

Step by step procedure

1. Select the type of evaluation.

2. By using the keys <CTRL> (and <Shift>) and the left mouse button you can move the selected line along the curve with the cursor. The EP-coordinates are continuously displayed in the "Result" field. Position the line(s).

3. Use the <Add EP> button to add the new EP. This manually evaluated EP receives a different symbol. The symbol can be specified under Properties, Endpoints.

4. The evaluation lines can be retained and printed out ("Properties, Endpoints, Show evaluation lines").

5. The original condition is returned to with the menu item "Data, Original results" of the database.

Deleting an EP

1. Select the EP: Click onto the text "EPX". The current EP is shown in the "Active endpoint" field.

2. Delete the EP with the <Delete EP> button.

Evaluation possibilities

Move the cursor on the curve with the <CTRL> key and the left mouse button.

Evaluation with intersection lines. The tangents are applied to the curve. The EP is defined as the intersection of the tangents. This evaluation is used, for example, in conductometric and photometric titrations. Move Tangent 1 along the curve with the <CTRL> key and the left mouse button; move Tangent 2 with the <Shift> key and the left mouse button. The curve sections can be zoomed (mouse). For fine positioning, curve smoothing can be switched on under Properties.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 87

Evaluation according to the parallel tangents method. Parallel tangents are applied to the curve. The EP is defined as the median of the tangents. This evaluation is used for potentiometric titrations. It is meaningful if the curve is relatively symmetrical. Move the parallel tangents along the curve with the <CTRL> key and the left mouse button. The curve sections can be zoomed (mouse). For fine positioning curve smoothing can be switched on under Properties.

Auxiliary lines can be placed anywhere in the curve field. Move the vertical line with the <CTRL> key and the left mouse button; the horizontal line with <Shift> key and the left mouse button. The coordinates of the intersection point of the auxiliary lines are shown under "Auxiliary lines".

Recalculate results

Menu item "Data, Recalculate results" or

Results can be recalculated with modified variables, formulas and/or graphically re-evaluated Endpoints. Recalculated results are labeled with "1" in column "M" of the determinations table (original results with "0").

Recalculate results with modified variables

1. Select the data set in the determinations table to be recalculated.

2. Open the window "Variables+formulas", menu item "View, Show variables + Formulas". If you selected more than 1 data set, the variables of the first selected data set appears.

3. Double click the variable or the formula to be modified and edit the value. If you press <OK>, the data set(s) is/are already labeled as modified. The modified value will be entered for all selected data sets.

4. Recalculate the result with . Each data set will be calculated according to its entries in the variables window, i.e. if the formula has not been modified, each data set keeps its old formula. If the formula has been modified, each data set will be calculated according to the new formula.

88 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Show variables and formulas

Menu item "View, Show variables+formulas"

The variables window will be displayed. You need this window for recalculation of results with modified variables or formulas.

The column headers of this window mean the following:

No Running number. Sub-determination Number of sub-determination, important

only for 726 Titroprocessor.

Name Name of variable.

In the formulas you may find variable names which are different from these names for Titrinos and KF-Coulometer and for 726 Titroproc-

essor.

Property of the variable. Value of the variable E Indicates if this value can be edited.

0: Value cannot be edited.

1: Value can be edited.

M Indicates if this value has been modified.

0: Value has not been modified.

1: Value has been modified.

List of calculation variables for Titrinos and 756 KF Coulometer

The names of the variables in the "Variables + formulas" table is different from the symbols used in the formula for the following variables:

Symbol in formula Name

C00 SmplSize C21 Id1 C22 Id2 C23 Id3

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 89

If such a variable is used in a formula for calculation, its value will be read in the line which you find under "Name", e.g. the value of "SmplSize" will be used in formulas which contain C00.

List of calculation variables for 726 Titroprocessor

The names of the variables in the "Variables + formulas" table is different from the symbols used in the formula for the following variables:

Symbol in formula Name

SS SmplSize

For the results you may either use the original name from the 726 Titroprocessor or RSX.

Formulas with the function "TST" (Test) of the 726 Titroprocessor cannot be recalculated by Vesuv.

If an endpoint is deleted or added in Vesuv, the endpoint flags (EFX) will be actualized.

Reset original results

Menu item "Data, Original results" or

Recalculated data sets can also be reset to their original values. All variables and formulas are reset to their original values and endpoints are reset as they were evaluated by the analytical device. The label in column "M" of the determinations table is reset from 1 to 0.

90 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Statistics

Menu item "Data, Statistics"

Mean, standard deviation and relative standard deviation are calculated.

Step by step procedure

1. Select the data sets to be included in the statistics cal-

culation.

2. Open the statistics window (menu item "Data, Statistics").

3. Statistics calculations are carried out.

4. If you select more data sets, they will also be included in

the statistics calculation. You can also select different data sets. Statistics calculation will be carried out as long as its window remains open.

5. Close the statistics window if you are done with statistics.

If you keep the statistics window open, the database will be slow because statistics calculations are always carried out.

Copy statistics into other programs

1. Select the lines in the statistics window to be copied.

2. Copy these lines into the clipboard (<Ctrl>+<C>).

3. Paste the clipboard into another program (e.g. Excel,

Word).

Modify the values for statistics calculations

If you wish to have statistics calculation from other or more variables (e.g. including endpoints), proceed as follows:

1. Select a data set in the determinations table which con-

tains this variable.

2. Click with the right mouse button and select "Properties".

3. Select the quantity for statistics from the list.

4. Double click on this quantity and activate "Statistics" ( ).

5. Make sure this quantity is visible in the determinations

table.

Statistics calculation is possible for every quantity if its property in the determinations table is "Number".

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 91

More windows

Raw reports

Menu item "View, Show raw reports"

Raw reports are those reports which have been sent by the analytical device. In order to have raw reports in the database, they have to be saved in the Datalogger, see page 48. Raw reports can be displayed and printed.

Display only selected raw reports

1. Select the data set from which you wish to display raw reports.

2. Open the window "Raw reports" (menu item "View, Show raw reports").

3. Select the window "Raw reports", click with the right mouse button and select "Properties"

4. Select the raw report(s) to be displayed.

Note: The selection is valid for all data sets and all Vesuv databases.

Printing raw reports

1. Open the window "Raw reports" (menu item "View, Show raw reports").

2 Select the window "Raw reports".

3. Print the content of this window with .

92 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

Endpoints

Menu item "View, Show endpoints"

The table "Endpoints" contains all those values which have been evaluated by the analytical device: Endpoints, Fix EP's, pK/HNP, rates, fix times, fix V etc.

The table can be printed ( ), exported and copied via clipboard into any program.

The columns have the following meaning:

No Running number. Sub-determination Number of sub-determination, important

only for 726 Titroprocessor.

Label Label of the point in the curve. Value of the point. Unit of the point.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 93

Options of the database

General

Menu item "Options, Settings, General"

Open last database on start

The last database will be opened automatically when you start the Vesuv database.

Save view on exit On exiting the Vesuv database, the posi-

tions of the windows are saved.

Check user permissions

Password protection will be active.

Report template

Selection of the report template, see page 74.

Monitoring of database

Menu item "Options, Settings, Monitoring"

Time intervals for data backup and compressing of the database can be monitored. The size of the database is monitored from the datalogger (menu item "Device window, Properties, Database").

Step by step procedure

1. Activate monitoring ( ).

2. Edit the dates, button <Date>:

Next date You may set a date for the beginning of the

monitoring. The date will be reset if an action is confirmed. The next date for the action is displayed here.

Interval Enter the interval for this action. Carried out last time Shows the last date when this ac-

tion has been confirmed.

Carried out by Shows the name of the user who con-

firmed this action the last time. If no user of the Vesuv database is logged in and no name was given for the Windows login, "Administrator" is entered.

94 • 6. Database Vesuv 3.0

3. Enter the message that should appear if the interval is

expired, button <Message>.

The interval test is carried out on opening of the database.

Monitoring interval is expired

Execute the required action. If you want to carry out the required action, activate "Carried

out". If you are a logged in user, your name will be stored and can be viewed in the monitoring function.

If you don't wish to execute the required action now, you can also postpone it.

Vesuv 3.0 6. Database • 95

Metrohm VESUV User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual