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SIEMENS S7-300
DATA LOGGER
VDL
U SER MANUAL
M ICRO-AIDE
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VDL S7‑300
Data Logger
USer ManUaL
Revised: July 29, 2014
685 Arrow Grand Circle Covina, CA 91722
Copyright© 2008 by MICRO‑AIDE Corporation
All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the
written permission of MICRO‑AIDE Corporation.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. MICRO‑AIDE believes the information contained in
this document to be accurate. However, MICRO‑AIDE assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions.
Windows, Windows XP, Windows 7, Excel, Access, Notepad and Word are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
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tabLe of ContentS
Chapter 1 – generaL DeSC ripti on
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Key Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Comparing the VDL S7‑300 and CWR‑24E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Firmware Modification History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Setup Database Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
About this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Chapter 2 – inStaLL ation
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Initial Check‑Out Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installation Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Site Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Peripheral Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
USB Device Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Terminal Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Vital‑Processor Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Ethernet Port (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Internal Modem (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
GPS Receiver (optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Cabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Alarm Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Input Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Connecting to the Siemens S7‑300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Applying Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
TC
Chapter 3 – SetUp
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Logging On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
User Interface Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Fields and Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Working with Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Completing Commands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Data Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
iiiMi cro ‑Aid e
Setup Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Setup (S) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Time / Date (T) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Reset System (R) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
System Parameters (S). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Analog Configuration (A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Timer Inputs (W) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Event Names (E) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Input Names / Identifiers (I) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Virtual Inputs (V). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Network (N) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Print Setup Data (P) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Transfer Files (T). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Download Setup Data (D) ‑ Saving the Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Upload Setup Data (U) ‑ Restoring the Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Log Off (X) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Chapter 4 – operati on
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Multi‑User Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Remote Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Establishing an Ethernet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Establishing a Modem Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
TC
Logging On. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
How to Operate the VDL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Query Events (Q) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Selecting a Single Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Selecting a Range of Dates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Query Report Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
View Events (V). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Include Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Live Status (L). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Event Record Formatting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
No Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Include Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Symbol Legend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
CSV Report Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
CSV Sample Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
CSV Input Numbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Capturing Event Records to a PC File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Chapter 5 – front paneL opera tion
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Front Panel Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
USB Host Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Liquid Crystal Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
iv Mi cro ‑Aid e
ta bLe o f Conte nt S
LED Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
How to Use the USB Host Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Saving Records to a Flash Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Saving Event Records from a Complete Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Saving Event Records from a Range of Times and Dates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Files Written to the Flash Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Events Text File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Events Binary File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Setup Database Binary File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
How to Use the Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Idle Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Event Record Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Browse Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Event Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Input Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Alphanumeric Editing Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
TimZone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
CSMode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
UName. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
ENames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
INames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Analog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Virtual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
TLimits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
PCode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Baud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Diag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
RESET. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
TC
Chapter 6 – Mainten anCe
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Adjusting the LCD Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Working Inside the Data Logger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Replacing the Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Installing the Optional GPS Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Installing the Optional Modem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Installing the Optional Ethernet Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Reconnecting the Internal Cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Diagnostic Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Checksum Test Program Memory (C) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Flash Memory Test (F) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
GPS Receiver Test (G) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Ethernet Test (E) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Modem Test (M) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Keypad Test (K). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Relay Test (R) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Temperature (T) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
System Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Updating the Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Trouble‑Shooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
appenDi x a – teC hniCa L Data
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Transfer Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Terminal Port Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
appenDi x b – opt ionS anD aCC eSSor ieS
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
appenDi x C – USb DeVi Ce DriV erS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Installing the Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Windows XP Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Windows 7 Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
TC
Making a USB Device Port Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
vi Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 1 – generaL DeSCription
introDUCtion
Since 1988 MICRO‑AIDE has provided the rail signal industry with a broad range of event recording
devices and systems that vary in capacity, size and features. Our considerable expertise in this eld has
also been used to create a highly innovative product referred to as a Vital‑Processor Data Logger (i.e.,
VDL). The VDL is unique in its ability to gather and report event data by communicating directly with a
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The VDL does not require wired attachments to spare vital and/
or non‑vital relay points in order to report Digital Input events. Considerable material and labor‑related
expense can be avoided by using the VDL in place of a standalone Event Recorder. Additionally, a user
interested in gathering incident or maintenance data will no longer need to log onto the PLC. Instead,
critical data can be acquired by accessing the VDL which operates strictly as a passive, non‑vital moni‑
toring device.
The VDL can be used with an Ansaldo Microlok II and Siemens S7‑300 controller. The installed rmware
determines which PLC will be monitored. The hardware used by both versions is identical.
This User Manual describes the Siemens S7‑300 version of the VDL. The current version of the Microlok II
and S7‑300 rmware are available for free downloading from the following web page:
www.micro‑aide.com/support/downloads.htm. To be used with a VDL, the Siemens S7‑300 must be
equipped with the CP 340 Communications Processor option.
1
Like many devices, the VDL utilizes an internal real‑time clock for date and time stamping events.
Historically, these real‑time clocks have been susceptible to drift. Over the course of several months the
accumulated drift can exceed several minutes. This factor can greatly complicate incident investigation
and reporting. However, the VDL eliminates the problems introduced by clock inaccuracy once and for
all. The GPS Receiver option utilizes GPS technology to set the time and date. Alternatively, the Ethernet
Port option allows the Data Logger to communicate with a LAN‑based time server. Time servers broad‑
cast time and date information using the SNTP protocol. The VDL is designed to support Unicast and
Multicast SNTP messaging. Any of these three methods provide for time stamping that is 100% accurate
and drift‑free without the need for any user intervention.
As a convenience to its user, the VDL can copy Event Records directly to a FAT‑32 formatted ash drive.
The USB Host Port is a standard feature of the Data Logger. Install a ash drive into the unit’s front panel
socket, press a few keypad buttons and in seconds Event Records from any time span are written as a
.txt le. The .txt le can then be read, e‑mailed or printed as required.
Every VDL comes equipped with a built‑in keypad and display screen located on the front panel. This
allows the user to effectively operate the Data Logger without additional peripheral devices. However,
each logger will support applications that require PC‑based storage of Event Records. The logger is
equipped with USB and serial Terminal Ports. It can also be equipped with an optional Ethernet Port.
Collectively they provide for increased exibility when interfacing with the logger. The USB Device and
Ethernet Ports provide high speed data transfer rates of 960 Kbps and 850 Kbps, respectively. A PC is then
used to retrieve, store and review Event Record data of interest to the user.
An optional 33,600 Baud internal modem can also be installed. It too allows the user to remotely access
and operate the Data Logger. A standard phone line connection allows the user to gather critical Event
®
1Mi cro ‑Aid e
Records from any location, however distant. The modem can also be used to provide dial‑out alarm
reporting to a maintenance facility.
The VDL is also equipped with four general purpose Analog Inputs. The Analog Inputs can be used to
monitor both DC and AC voltages such as battery levels and commercial power voltages.
Eight Virtual Inputs allow the user to create Event Records based upon a specic logical association of
several Digital, Analog, Timer and other Virtual Inputs. The Virtual Input feature can be very useful in ana‑
lyzing failure conditions or in creating alarm indications. Tedious and confusing site‑specic proles are
not required when using the Virtual Input feature.
Sixteen Timer Inputs can be used to measure and report the elapsed time between any two events. As
an example, the duration of a bit transition, the time between two separate bit events or the occurrence
of an Analog Input event and a bit event can be reported. Additionally, separate High and Low Limit
Values can be assigned for each timer. An event occurrence that is too fast or slow when compared to
the Limit Values is identied in a Timer Input Event Record.
All MICRO‑AIDE rail signal products, including the VDL S7‑300, are designed to be easy to use and main‑
tain. Each design is based upon the premise that value and reliability start with attention to detail and a
concern for usability rather than needless complexity. Our goal in creating the VDL was to provide the
rail signal industry with an instrument maintainers and signal technicians will nd easy to operate long
after the Data Logger has been installed and set up.
Key featUreS
Listed in the following are some of the features included with every VDL S7‑300.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
A serial comm connection to the S7‑300 is used to report events from 999 Digital Inputs.
•
No external wiring of Digital Inputs is required.
•
1
Security is improved, as event data is available directly from the VDL without having to log onto the
•
PLC.
The USB Host Port allows copying of Event Records to a FAT‑32 formatted ash drive.
•
The 960 Kbps USB Device Port can be used in lieu of the serial Terminal Port.
•
The optional GPS Receiver allows the logger’s real‑time clock to operate 100% accurately without
•
any user intervention.
The optional internal Ethernet Port allows for remote LAN‑based access via a Telnet connection.
•
If the LAN includes a time server, the optional Ethernet Port also allows the logger’s real‑time clock to
•
be precisely controlled using SNTP. Unicast and Multicast protocols are supported.
Automatic adjustment for Daylight Saving Time (DST) can be enabled or disabled. The DST feature is
•
in full compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 2005 which took effect in 2007.
The time zone setting of the logger can be assigned to any of seven zones used in North America.
•
The storage capacity is 284,785 Event Records (expandable to 1,182,769).
•
Event Records can be logged for 128 distinct days.
•
Event Records are stored in ash memory devices that do not require a battery power source.
•
Records are retained even if power is removed.
Setup data and Event Record data can be easily and quickly transferred to a PC le.
•
Every Event Record includes a measurement for each of four Analog Inputs.
•
Analog Inputs can range from 51.1 V (.1 V scale) to 255 V (1 V scale), DC or AC.
•
2 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 1 – ge neraL DeSCri pt ion Co Mpari ng the VDL S7‑300 a nD CWr‑24e
Analog Inputs are tested against separate High and Low Limit Values that are assigned by the user.
•
Crossing either Limit Value will create an Event Record.
Events are date and time stamped to the nearest tenth of a second.
•
Eight Virtual Inputs can be programmed to create Event Records that identify alarm or fault condi‑
•
tions of special interest to the user.
Sixteen Timer Inputs can be used to measure and report intervals between any pair of events.
•
Limit Values can be assigned to establish a range of acceptable and unacceptable timed intervals.
•
Timer Inputs create Event Records that list the timed interval and its relationship to the programmed
•
Limit Values.
Installation is quite simple. Input wires are terminated in detachable, tension clamp terminals. Wire
•
sizes as large as 12 AWG can be used.
Maximum power consumption is less than 4 W. A 9 to 36 Vdc power source can be used to power the
•
logger.
The internal temperature of the logger is measured and reported.
•
The user interface provides full cursor control when using a PC.
•
Three distinct levels of password security provide protection against unauthorized access.
•
Several diagnostic commands can be executed to verify important system operations.
•
Firmware updates can be uploaded to the logger via any port (i.e., Terminal, modem, USB Device or
•
Ethernet). Additionally, new rmware can be uploaded directly via a USB ash drive.
MICRO‑AIDE’s GEA (Graphical Event Analyzer) software is fully compatible with the VDL S7‑300. GEA
•
can be used to poll, save, review, plot and analyze Event Record data.
CoMparing the VDL S7‑300 anD CWr‑24e
Most of the recording features of the CWR‑24E Event Recorder have been included as capabilities of
the VDL S7‑300. The hardware design of the VDL is a specic conguration of the CWR‑24E. Nevertheless,
there are several important distinctions. They have been highlighted in Table 1 on page 3.
Feature VDLS7‑300 CWR‑24E
Digital Inputs 999, via PLC 20, hard wired
RS‑232 Ports Terminal and PLC Serial Port Terminal Port only
Event Record time stamps .1 sec. .001 sec.
Flashing Events not available available
Flash Rate Reporting not available available
Train Speed Monitors not available 4 available
Std. Event Record capacity 284,785 307,123
Table 1: VDL S7‑300 and CWR‑24E Differences
firMWare MoDifiCation hiStor y
Features have either been introduced or modied as the result of the following rmware modications.
1
V1.00 Initial release.
V1.01 A phone line disconnect is performed automatically if the Data Logger does not transmit any data for
ve minutes.
V1.02 Corrected time information associated with Event Records written to USB Host port.
3Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
V1.03 A potential issue involving the Query feature and evaluation of Virtual Inputs occurring at very high rates
was resolved.
V1.04 Corrected LCD message displayed prior to initialization.
V1.05 The Administrative Password and Passcode are no longer listed in the Print Setup Data command during
a Restricted Access session.
V1.06 The behavior of the Ethernet Port empty condition was modied.
V1.07 Corrected writing of Date and Image Records at the start of a new ash memory block.
V1.08 Added one wait state to all SRAM accesses. Must be used with boot loader version 1.01.
V1.09 Any time and date interval can now be selected when saving Event Records to a USB ash drive. The USB
Host Port can now be used to upload new rmware directly from a ash drive.
V1.10 The Digital Input capacity was expanded from 256 to 999.
V1.10 retains compatibility with 256 input installations, however VDLs being updated from V1.0x to V1.10
and later must also have their Setup Databases updated. Failure to do so may result in erroneous Event
Record data.
V1.11 Added support for SNTP‑Unicast. Unicast message is sent at the completion of the initialization period and
hourly thereafter.
V1.12 Query feature now works with non‑contiguous dates in the date table. This x also applies to GEA Query.
Corrected problem with the Live Status of Virtual Inputs V5‑8. Corrected Event Record problem with
Analog Inputs A2‑4.
SetUp DatabaSe CoMpatib iLity
1
Occasionally, modications to the rmware of the logger will result in a new memory map of the Setup
Database. When this occurs the previously created Setup Database will be incompatible with the new
rmware. Table 2 on page 4 details the compatibility status of each rmware version. A green check
mark (
cates that a new Setup Database will have to be created for the rmware version listed.
)in any given row indicates compatibility with the previous Setup Database. A red X ()indi‑
FirmwareVersion Compatibility
V1.00
V1.01
V1.02
V1.03
V1.04
V1.05
V1.06
V1.07
V1.08
V1.09
V1.10
V1.11
V1.12
Table 2: Setup Database Compatibility
4 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 1 – ge neraL DeSCri pt ion ab oUt t hi S Man Ua L
When an incompatibility occurs, contact MICRO‑AIDE before preparing a new Setup Database. E‑mail
a copy of the existing Setup Database along with the applicable rmware revision number. MICRO‑AIDE
will convert the database and return a le that is fully compatible with the new rmware version.
Never attempt to use an incompatible Setup Database. The operation of the logger can be severely
impacted.
aboUt thiS ManUaL
This document is intended to provide the user with comprehensive, easy‑to‑read instructions on how
to install, set up, operate and maintain the MICRO‑AIDE VDL S7‑300. This document refers to Version
1.13 of the VDL S7‑300 rmware. Specically, the sample data and command details depicted were
prepared using a Version 1.13 logger. Wherever possible, step‑by‑step instructions have been included.
In the event the user has questions about any of the described procedures the user should contact
MICRO‑AIDE for assistance. Additional copies of this manual are available upon request.
Mi cro ‑Aid e co r po rA ti on
685 Arrow Grand Circle
Covina, CA 91722
Tel: 626‑915‑5502 Fax: 626‑331‑9484
E‑mail: support@micro‑aide.com
The MICRO‑AIDE “Material Return” and “Limited Warranty” policies can be found on the inside back
cover of this manual.
The next chapter describes how to install the VDL.
1
5Mi cro ‑Aid e
USer noteS
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
1
6 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 2 – inStaLLation
introDUCtion
This chapter describes how to properly unpack and install the VDL S7‑300 prior to operation. It is advis‑
able to perform the Initial Check‑Out Procedure before attempting to set up the Data Logger.
UnpaCKing
Each VDL is packed in a shipping carton that is properly sized for the device. Abundant packing materi‑
als are provided to minimize mechanical shock to the contents. Before opening the carton inspect it for
damage. Damage to the carton should be noted. Carefully remove the logger. It is advisable to save all
packing materials in the event the unit ever needs to be returned to MICRO‑AIDE.
Inspect the unit for visual damage. It should not be scratched, dented or deformed in any way. If it
appears the logger was damaged in shipment the responsible carrier should be notied immediately.
MICRO‑AIDE will assist the user in ling a claim in the event damage was sustained during shipment.
initiaL CheCK‑oUt proCe DUre
Before the VDL is installed at a signal facility it is recommended that an operational check of the logger
be performed. The following materials are required as a part of this procedure.
12 Vdc power source.
•
Common hook‑up wire for power and testing inputs (12 to 22 AWG).
•
Wire strippers and small, at‑head screwdriver.
•
PC equipped with a communications program (e.g., HyperTerminal®) and either a USB port or serial
•
comm port set to operate at 38,400 Baud.
Digital Voltmeter (DVM).
•
Perform each step in the sequence listed in the following. If a problem arises, refer to the sections entitled
“Diagnostic Testing” on page 76 and “Trouble‑Shooting Guide” on page 82. Elements common to
most installations are illustrated in Figure 1 on page 8 and Figure 2 on page 9.
1. With the power off, connect the power source positive and negative conductors to either pair of ter‑
minals labeled “B” and “N”, respectively. They are located at the right end of the logger’s top panel.
2. Connect the PC’s serial comm port to the DE‑9 male connector labeled “Terminal”. Use the cable
provided by MICRO‑AIDE or a DE‑9 to DE‑9 straight‑through cable. Figure 6 on page 87 illustrates
the proper wiring of the cable. Alternatively, connect a USB A‑B cable between the logger’s port
labeled “USB Device to PC” and any USB port available on the PC.
2
7Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
A
B
D
E
Power
Terminal
F
Modem
2
A
C
E
T I M E D A T E
1 6 : 2 0 : 5 9 0 2 - 2 0 - 1 4
S 7 - 3 0 0 D a t a L o
C O V I N A_A R R O W G R A N D 9 . 7
1 2 3 Browse
Adj.
4 5 6 Alpha
7 8 9 Setup
0 Esc
Save
g g
e r
Enter
Detachable tension clamp connectors (3)
USB Host Port
LED indicators (3)
Save
USB
Flash Drive
MICRO-AIDE
B
80-character LCD
D
LCD contrast adjustment
F
20-positon keypad
C
Figure 1: Typical Installation ‑ Front Panel View
To use the logger’s USB Device Port the proper drivers must be installed in the PC. Appendix C de‑
scribes how to locate and install the correct drivers.
The factory default setting for the Terminal Port is 38,400 Baud. Refer to the procedure entitled “Terminal
Port Baud Rate” on page 21 for details on changing the Baud rate. The VDL requires 8 data bits, no
parity and 1 stop bit (i.e., 8‑N‑1).
3. Set the PC to emulate an ANSI terminal. In the case of HyperTerminal, click on the File, Properties
command. Select the Settings tab. Enable Terminal keys. Select ANSI from the Emulation drop‑down
list box.
4. Apply power to the PC. Ensure that the communications program is set for a direct connection to the
appropriate communications port.
5. Apply power to the VDL. The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel should illuminate. The PC will display
the following message (Terminal Port).
Micro-Aide CWR-24E Flash Boot Loader 1.01
Press ESC for boot loader
8 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 2 – in StaLL at ion in itiaL CheCK‑oU t pro CeDUr e
Orient
skyward
G
RS-232 DE-9
Female - Female
Analog
A1 A2 A3 A4
KJIH
B B N NRly
RS-232 DE-9
Female - Female
G
Terminal Port
Terminal
GPS
Antenna
L
Ethernet
CAT-5
To
Vital-Processor
USB
Device
To PC
Phone
Line
M
USB
Type A-B
RJ-11
CCESS
A
H
Optional Ethernet Port (Telnet, SNTP-Multicast & -Unicast)
ETHODS
M
2
PC
I
USB Device Port
K
Output relay
M
Processor Port
J
Optional 33.6K Baud modem
L
Optional GPS Receiver
Figure 2: Typical Installation ‑ Top Panel View
9Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
The preceding message should be ignored. Do not press the Esc key. The user must wait several seconds
for the VDL to complete its initialization process.
6. After the logger completes its initialization the date and time should appear on the LCD. The date
and time may need to be changed. The procedure for changing the date and time is described in
the section entitled “Time / Date (T)” on page 17. The following password challenge will be dis‑
played.
Siemens S7-300 Data Logger. Ver 1.13 (C) 2011 MICRO-AIDE INC.
***** NOT SET *****
Event storage capacity: 284785
Enter password:
Password Request
7. If the logger fails to display the password request, check the power and peripheral connections
and Baud rate and communications settings. If the problem can be isolated to the VDL contact
MICRO‑AIDE customer service for instructions on how to proceed.
Repair and return policies are described on the inside back cover of this manual.
8. The remainder of the Initial Check‑Out Procedure presumes the logger is congured to operate with
the factory default settings and Event Records have not been logged into memory. If this is not the
case the user may wish to reset the unit. Refer to the section entitled “Reset System (R)” on page 18
for details.
9. From the PC’s keyboard type PASSWORD in upper‑case letters. This is the default password.
2
Complete the entry by pressing the Enter key. The Main Menu, shown in the following, will be dis‑
played.
MICRO-AIDE Vital-Processor Data Logger
S Setup
L Live Status
Q Query Events
V View Events
T Transfer Files
D Diagnostics
X Log Off
Main Menu
10. Press the L key. The VDL will now display the real‑time status of Digital and Analog Inputs.
11. Connect the 12 Vdc positive and negative test leads to the two inputs of Analog Input A1.
12. Verify the Analog Input reading for A1 is within .15 Vdc of the correct reading. The correct polarity of
the applied voltage should also be indicated.
13. Repeat the previous two steps for the remaining three Analog Inputs.
14. Press the Esc key once to return to the Main Menu. Perform a Query of the Event Records by pressing
Q at the PC keyboard. Select today’s date and then press Enter. Finally, press the F1 function key.
Refer to the section entitled “Query Events (Q)” on page 38 for additional details.
15. Verify that a Power On Event Record is reported listing today’s date.
16. Before completing the Initial Check‑Out Procedure verify the LCD is providing acceptable contrast.
If it needs to be improved adjust the potentiometer located at the logger’s front panel. Refer to the
section entitled “Adjusting the LCD Contrast” on page 73.
10 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 2 – in StaLL at ion in StaLL at ion pro CeD Ur e
This concludes the Initial Check‑Out Procedure. This procedure may be used at any time to verify that
the VDL is operating properly. Power can now be removed from the logger. Connections to the PC
should also be removed.
In the event that a failure occurs during any part of this procedure a series of diagnostic tests should
be performed. Refer to the sections entitled “Diagnostic Testing” on page 76 and “Trouble‑Shooting
Guide” on page 82. Alternatively, the user may wish to contact MICRO‑AIDE customer service.
Instructions on how to proceed will be offered. “Material Return” and “Limited Warranty” policies are
described on the inside back cover of this manual.
inStaLLation proCeDUre
The following sections describe the recommended Installation Procedure. Figure 1 on page 8 and
Figure 2 on page 9 illustrate elements that are common to most installations. The illustrations also de‑
pict the location of each connector used in the installation.
LoCation
The location where the VDL is to be installed should comply with a few simple requirements. The ambient
temperature near the logger should be in the range from ‑40 ºC to 72 ºC.
MoUnting
The VDL can be mounted on top of a suitable shelf or secured to a back board. Each logger is equipped
with non‑slip, rubber feet. Precautions should, however, be taken to prevent the unit from dropping off
the edge of the shelf or desktop. The shelf mounting brackets provided with the unit can be used for this
purpose. To attach the shelf mounting brackets remove the four rubber feet. The provided screws and
threaded holes vacated by the rubber feet are used to install the brackets. If a PC is to be used it must
be properly secured.
Contact MICRO‑AIDE in the event 19″ rack mounting brackets are required. Refer to the section entitled
“Accessories” on page 89 for ordering details.
2
Site preparation
The equipment location must have access to a stable 9 to 36 Vdc power source. A pair of wires must be
run from the power source to the location where the logger will be mounted. The VDL wire ends must be
stripped approximately 1/4″. The stripped ends will be secured by tension clamp terminals located along
the top panel of the unit. One wire must be connected to the positive voltage of the power source
and the other wire must be attached to the return of the power source. The tension clamp terminals will
accept wire sizes as large as 12 AWG. The two wires must be properly secured to prevent damage. It is
preferable not to run the wires adjacent to electrical equipment such as motors that may generate large
electrical disturbances.
The serial comm port labeled “To Vital‑Processor” must be connected to the CP 340 Communication Port
of the Siemens S7‑300. Use the cable provided by MICRO‑AIDE or a DE‑9 to DE‑9 straight‑through cable.
Figure 6 on page 87 illustrates the proper wiring of the cable. The VDL must be mounted within six
cable feet of the vital‑processor.
The Analog Inputs also use a tension clamp style of detachable connector. Each wire should be tagged
with its circuit identity. Each input cable or wire bundle should be secured to prevent damage to the
connections at either end.
The VDL can be programmed to issue an alarm indication signal. A form C relay with normally closed
and normally open contacts is available at the connector alongside where power is attached to the
logger. The contacts are rated for 2 Adc at 24 Vdc and 1 Aac at 125 Vac. The relay can be used to con‑
trol an external light or warning device.
11Mi cro ‑Aid e
The GPS Receiver option utilizes an external antenna. The bulkhead‑style antenna is designed to be
mounted outdoors on any surface less than 3/8″ in thickness. It requires a 1/2″ diameter hole to be drilled
through the mounting surface. The hole should be properly sealed. The antenna assembly also includes a
washer, nut and 16' cable.
peripheraL eqUipMent
If a PC is to be co‑located with the VDL an appropriate AC power source must be available. Additional
connections can be made as described in the following sections.
USb DeViC e po rt
If an on‑site PC is to be used MICRO‑AIDE recommends that the USB Device Port be connected to a USB
port of the PC. The USB Device Port will support data transfer rates of 960 Kbps. A standard USB Type A‑B
cable is used for this purpose. Table 14 on page 87 lists the bit transfer rates of each user‑accessible
port.
To use the logger’s USB Device Port the proper drivers must be installed in the PC. Appendix C de‑
scribes how to locate and install the correct drivers.
te rMinaL po rt
As an alternative, the PC can be connected to the Terminal Port. The Terminal Port cable should be kept
to a minimum distance, preferably less than 20'. MICRO‑AIDE provides, as a standard feature, an RS‑232
DE‑9 to DE‑9 cable. The cable is suitable for use with any PC comm port or USB‑to‑serial adapter cable.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Each logger is shipped with a pair of MICRO‑AIDE manufactured RS‑232 cables. Both cables are wired
identically and can be used interchangeably with the Terminal and Vital‑Processor Ports. The shield wire
in each cable is not attached. Consequently, the logger chassis and peripheral device are electrically
2
isolated. This further improves the isolation properties of the system.
Vi taL‑pro Ce SS or port
The VDL logs Event Records for Digital Inputs by establishing a communications connection with the
Siemens S7‑300. Accordingly, the VDL port labeled “To Vital‑Processor” must be connected to the CP 340
Communications Port.
et hernet po rt (optiona L)
The optional Ethernet Port may be used to connect the VDL to a LAN or PC. A standard CAT‑5 Ethernet
cable is used to connect to the LAN via a hub or switch. The length of either cable must be limited to 50'.
Table 14 on page 87 lists the bit transfer rates of each user‑accessible port.
in ternaL Mo De M (opti on aL )
If the VDL is equipped with the optional internal modem, a standard telephone line can be attached to
the logger. The telephone line must be terminated with an RJ‑11 connector like those commonly used in
residential telephone service. Test the telephone line rst to ensure that a dial tone is available.
gpS reCei Ve r (option aL )
The GPS Receiver option is the preferred means of precisely controlling the logger’s real‑time clock. The
optional feature includes a bulkhead‑mount antenna designed specically for use with the receiver
module. For improved reception the antenna should be mounted outside of the equipment house or
cabinet, as it requires unobstructed skyward access. The antenna is designed to be moisture proof and is
rated to operate over a broad temperature range.
The antenna is equipped with a 16' coaxial cable. The antenna end of the cable is non‑detachable. The
other end of the cable terminates in an MCX‑male connector. The MCX connector must be secured to
the logger’s connector labeled “GPS Antenna” located along the top panel.
12 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 2 – in StaLL at ion in StaLL at ion pro CeD Ur e
Upon request, an optional magnetic‑mount antenna can be supplied. Refer to the section entitled
“Options” on page 89 for additional details.
CabLing
Follow the steps listed in the following to complete the cabling installation.
The power, alarm relay and input wires all terminate in connectors that are detachable. The cable instal‑
lation may be performed more easily if the female connectors are rst detached from their male halves
that remain secured to the VDL circuit board.
po Wer
1. Ensure that the power is off at the power source.
2. The two wires from the power source must be secured to either pair of tension clamp terminals la‑
beled “B” and “N”, respectively.
3. Connect AC power to the PC (as required).
aL arM reL ay
Wire the alarm indicating device or circuit to the appropriate relay terminals labeled “C”, “NO” or “NC”
(i.e., common, normally open, normally closed, respectively).
in pUt Cir CU it S
Events will only be recorded if the input circuits are wired properly to the VDL. The correct polarity of
Analog Inputs must be identied. The four Analog Inputs terminate in a separate connector located at
the top panel of the logger. They are labeled as inputs “A1” through “A4”.
Event Records will indicate positive and negative polarities for each Analog Input.
The user may wish to verify the proper operation of each input. The “Initial Check‑Out Procedure” on
page 7 should be used to identify any faulty input wiring.
Co nneCtin g to the Si eM en S S7‑300
Use the cable provided to connect the VDL to the CP 340 Communications Port of the vital‑processor.
Once power is applied to the VDL it will complete its initialization sequence and shortly thereafter auto‑
matically establish a connection with the S7‑300.
appLying poWer
Once the cabling is installed the power can be applied. Shortly after power is applied the PC will display
the password request. Refer to the sample data entitled “Password Request” on page 10. After the
initialization sequence is completed the front panel LCD will indicate the time and date.
This completes the VDL Installation Procedure. The Setup Procedure can now be started. This is the sub‑
ject of the next chapter.
2
13Mi cro ‑Aid e
USer noteS
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
2
14 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 3 – SetUp
introDUCtion
This chapter describes how to set up the VDL S7‑300 for use in a typical application. It is assumed that the
Setup Database contains the factory default settings.
Logging on
User sessions are initiated only after the log‑on procedure is completed. Logging on is described in the
section entitled “Initial Check‑Out Procedure” on page 7. To log on the user must enter the correct
password in response to the password challenge. A typical password challenge message is shown in the
sample data entitled “Password Request” on page 10.
The Terminal, USB Device and optional Ethernet and modem ports of the VDL incorporate two levels of
password security. Each level uses a distinct password. The Restricted Access password allows a user to
review all aspects of the Setup Database. Modications to the Setup Database are limited to parameters
that are considered site‑specic. The Administrative Access password allows a user full access to all as‑
pects of the Data Logger. This includes the unrestricted ability to make changes to the Setup Database.
The factory default password is PASSWORD in upper‑case letters.
3
The Main Menu, as shown below, will be displayed after the correct password has been entered.
MICRO-AIDE Vital-Processor Data Logger
S Setup
L Live Status
Q Query Events
V View Events
T Transfer Files
D Diagnostics
X Log Off
USer interfaCe ConVenti onS
The VDL user interface is designed for ease‑of‑use. Before proceeding further, the user should become
familiar with a few simple aspects of the interface.
fieLDS anD CoMManDS
The VDL user interface allows commands and parameter elds to be easily and quickly selected.
Commands are listed vertically in a menu. Some commands direct the user to sub‑menus containing
additional commands (e.g., Setup command). Fields allow the user to either select or enter parameter
values. A specic eld is always uniquely associated with a particular command.
To select a command from a menu or a eld within a command simply move the rectangular highlight
to the location of the desired command or eld. Pressing the appropriate arrow keys located on the PC
keyboard will move the highlight. The left, right, up and down arrow keys may be used in any sequence
to position the highlight.
Main Menu
15Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
To execute a command that has been previously selected (i.e., highlighted) simply press the Enter key.
Alternatively, the command may be executed by pressing the single‑letter code listed to the left of the
command. Upper‑ and lower‑case letters may be used. Every command listed in a menu has a distinct
single‑letter code that permits immediate execution of that command.
Wo rKing W it h fieLDS
The VDL utilizes two types of elds. Selection Fields allow the user to select a parameter from a list of pre‑
dened values (e.g., Terminal Port Baud Rate). Edit Fields can be set to any alphanumeric value desired
by the user (e.g., Unit Name).
To change the value of a Selection Field simply press the Spacebar on the PC keyboard. The next value
from a predened list of values will be displayed each time the Spacebar is pressed. The rst value in the
list will automatically follow the last value.
Input Names and Limit Values are examples of parameters that are dened by Edit Fields. After the
desired Edit Field is highlighted the user may type any combination of alphanumeric characters ap‑
propriate to the eld. The initial value of the eld is completely removed after typing the rst character.
Consequently, it is not necessary to delete each character that comprises the initial value. Errors in typing
can be corrected by using the Backspace key. At any time while editing a eld the user may press the
Esc key and thereby restore the eld to its previous value.
Upper‑ and lower‑case letters may be used. Limit Values are assigned negative values by preceding the
numeric entry with a minus sign. Numeric values that exceed the range of the eld are automatically set
to the maximum or minimum value (as appropriate) permitted by the range.
To accept the new value assigned to an Edit Field the user can either press the Enter key or move the
highlight to a new eld. The initial value of an Edit Field cannot be restored after the new value has been
accepted. When all of the elds contain values suitable to the user the command may be completed.
3
Once a eld has been accepted by pressing the Enter key or moving the highlight it may, depending
upon the command, be programmed into the logger as an updated operating parameter. Accordingly,
the acceptance may occur before completion of the command.
Co MpLeting Co MManDS
Generally, commands are completed by pressing the Esc key. However, pressing the Esc key will not
complete the command if the user is in the process of editing a eld. Pressing the Esc key prior to ac‑
cepting the new value will instead restore the highlighted eld to its previous value. To complete a com‑
mand that requires pressing the Esc key, rst accept the contents of the last Edit Field by pressing the
Enter key or moving the highlight to another eld.
Some commands are completed by responding to a choice listed in a Selection Field (e.g., No or Yes). In
these cases the command is completed by highlighting the desired choice and then pressing the Enter
key. Pressing the Esc key is the equivalent of selecting the default choice (generally the No option). As a
rule of thumb, executing the No option will abandon any eld changes made prior to the completion.
Other commands are completed by pressing the key described in a prompt message displayed with
the command. Prompts are frequently listed with commands as an aid to the user. After the command is
completed the user will be returned to the menu that was previously displayed.
Data fLoW ControL
A few of the setup and operational commands can generate considerable amounts of displayed data.
If the user wishes to observe this data on the screen of a PC it may be helpful to temporarily pause the
data stream being sent by the logger. The Pause and Resume commands may be used to provide the
required data ow control.
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Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
To Pause the data being sent press the Ctrl and S keys simultaneously. The data ow will be stopped
indenitely. To Resume data ow press the Ctrl and Q keys simultaneously. This technique can be used to
freeze the data at the PC.
Another useful command is the Abort command. At any time during a lengthy data dump the remaining
data can be ignored or aborted by pressing the Esc key. The user can then issue another command im‑
mediately after the Abort is executed rather than wait until the lengthy data dump is completed.
SetUp proCeDUre
Before the VDL is ready for use the logger must be congured to reect the operation required by the
user. The following steps should be performed in the sequence listed. It is assumed that the user intends
to access the VDL via a PC which is connected to either the USB Device or Terminal Port. Succeeding
chapters describe how to use the front panel display and keypad, as well as access the logger via the
optional Ethernet Port and internal modem. It is further assumed that the user has not previously altered
any of the factory default settings.
The Terminal Port default settings are 38,400 Baud, 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit (i.e., 8‑N‑1).
The Main Menu of commands will be displayed immediately after logging on. Refer to the sample data
entitled “Main Menu” on page 15. The Setup Procedure described in this chapter will familiarize the
user with the Setup, Transfer Files and Log Off commands listed in the Main Menu.
For the remainder of this chapter the Setup, Transfer Files, Log Off commands and their numerous sub‑
commands will be described in the sequence recommended by MICRO‑AIDE for their execution as
part of the Setup Procedure. Each command will be identied by its name as listed in the menu where
it resides. The single‑letter code that executes the command will be listed in parenthesis. The Setup
Procedure commences with the execution of the Setup command listed at the top of the Main Menu.
The VDL does not require any programming or conguration setup to operate with the S7‑300. Their op‑
eration with each other occurs automatically. The default port settings at either end of the communica‑
tion link are preset to 9600 Baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit (i.e., 8‑N‑1). These settings should not be
changed.
SetUp (S)
The following menu of sub‑commands will be displayed after executing the Setup command.
ti Me / Dat e (t)
The VDL time stamps all Event Records. Therefore, the correct time and date must be set. The logger will
automatically account for leap year. The logger’s clock circuitry will continue to keep time even if power
is interrupted for a prolonged period.
3
Setup Menu
T Time/Date
E Event Names
I Input Names/Identiers
A Analog Conguration
V Virtual Inputs
W Timer Inputs
N Network
S System Parameters
P Print Setup Data
R Reset System
Setup Commands
To manually change the time or date execute the Time / Date command. The sample data listed in the
following shows a typical response to the Time / Date command.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Time/Date
HH:MM:SS
Time: 16:20:59
MM-DD-YY
Date: 02-20-14 Thursday
Time / Date Command
The highlight may be moved to the hour, minute or second time elds or month, day or year date elds.
The VDL utilizes a military‑style clock. Accordingly, 12:01:02 AM is dened as 00:01:02 and 12:59:58 PM is
dened as 23:59:58. Leading zeros are not required. The day of week is displayed automatically as deter‑
mined by the date selected by the user.
To complete the command press the Esc key. The user can then accept or abandon the changes.
The clock of the VDL can be precisely controlled by three different means. The Clock Sync Mode can
be set to GPS or SNTP. Either of two SNTP methods are available. Refer to the section entitled “Clock Sync
Mode” on page 22. If the clock cannot be synchronized MICRO‑AIDE recommends that the clock be
manually set once per month.
re Set SyS te M (r)
The Reset System command can be used at any time to restore the logger to its factory default settings.
The command can also be used to clear previously logged Event Records. This step is listed as part of
the Setup Procedure since it can be useful in restoring the logger to a known state consistent with this
documentation. Additionally, any programming or Event Records created as a part of the Initial Check‑
Out Procedure will be erased.
The following menu will be displayed after executing the Reset System command. Both command op‑
3
tions are described in the sections that follow.
Reset System
S Reset Setup Data
E Reset Event Memory
B Reset Both
Reset System Command
The time and date settings, along with the Network and several System Parameters, are not affected by
either option of the Reset System command.
re Set Set Up Da ta (S)
The VDL utilizes two non‑volatile memories. The rst, referred to as the Setup Database, contains all of the
programmed parameters established by the user. Most of these parameters can be restored to their fac‑
tory default values by executing the Reset Setup Data command. Table 3 on page 18 lists the values
after the reset is performed. Some parameters are unchanged by the reset.
Parameter DefaultorResetValue
Time / Date (as previously assigned)
Event Names ‑ On On (1 ‑ 19), Violate (20)
Event Names ‑ Off Off (1 ‑ 19), Nominal (20)
Input Names ‑ Digital Inputs Digital Input 001, Digital Input 002, etc.
Input Names ‑ Analog Inputs Analog Input 01, Analog Input 02, etc.
Input Names ‑ Virtual Inputs Virtual Input 01, Virtual Input 02, etc.
Input Names ‑ Timer Inputs Timer 01, Timer 02, etc.
Table 3: Factory Default / Reset Settings
18 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
Parameter DefaultorResetValue
Identiers ‑ Digital Inputs DInpu001, DInpu002, etc.
Identiers ‑ Analog Inputs AInput01, AInput02, etc.
Identiers ‑ Virtual Inputs VInput01, VInput02, etc.
Identiers ‑ Timer Inputs Timer01, Timer02, etc.
Event Pairs 1, 20 for Timer Inputs
Analog Conguration ‑ Range ±25.5 Vdc
Analog Conguration ‑ Filter Slow
Analog Conguration ‑ Low Limit ‑25.6 Vdc
Analog Conguration ‑ High Limit 25.5 Vdc
Virtual Inputs ‑ Variables ‑‑‑ (not assigned)
Virtual Inputs ‑ Relay No
Virtual Inputs ‑ Dial Out No
Timer Inputs ‑ From and To Triggers ‑‑‑ (not assigned)
Timer Inputs ‑ From and To Events Off
Timer Inputs ‑ LowLimit 0.0 seconds
Timer Inputs ‑ HighLimit 0.0 seconds
Network ‑ IP Address (as previously assigned)
Network ‑ Subnet Mask (as previously assigned)
Network ‑ Gateway (as previously assigned)
Network ‑ Ethernet MAC Address (as previously assigned)
Network ‑ Port (as previously assigned)
Network ‑ TCP / IP mode (as previously assigned)
Unit Name ***** NOT SET *****
Terminal Port Baud Rate 38,400
V‑P Port Baud Rate 9600
Administrative Password PASSWORD
Restricted Password LOOKWORD
Passcode 12345678
Ring Count 2
Primary Dial Number (not assigned)
Secondary Dial Number (not assigned)
Clock Sync Mode (as previously assigned)
SNTP Server 0.0.0.0
Time Zone (as previously assigned)
Daylight Saving Time (as previously assigned)
High Temp Limit 257 ºF
Low Temp Limit ‑67 ºF
Table 3: Factory Default / Reset Settings
3
The following precaution will be displayed after selecting the Reset Setup Data command.
RESET ALL SETUP DATA TO FACTORY DEFAULTS, ARE YOU SURE?
No Yes
Select No to abort the reset. Select Yes to proceed.
The Reset Setup Data command will return the Terminal Port Baud rate to its default settings of
38,400 Baud. The PC Baud rate may have to be adjusted.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
re Set eVe nt Me Mo ry (e)
The Reset Event Memory command will permanently remove from memory all Event Records that were
previously logged. Records from each of 128 possible days will be deleted.
The following precaution will be displayed after selecting the Reset Event Memory command.
ERASE ALL EVENTS FROM MEMORY, ARE YOU SURE?
No Yes
Select No to abort the reset or Yes to proceed. If a reset is performed the following precaution will be
displayed.
Erasing memory, do not turn power off for 60 seconds,
Press any key to continue
It is important that the user not turn off the power while the VDL is clearing the Event Record memory.
Failure to do so may result in corruption to the Event Record set.
re Set bot h (b)
The Reset Both command allows the user to clear both databases simultaneously. The precaution noted
in the preceding paragraph applies to this command as well.
Sy SteM pa ra Me terS (S)
System Parameters are those parameters that affect the logger as a whole. They do not affect individual
inputs or their behavior. System Parameters include, but are not limited to, the Unit Name, passwords
and modem options. The fourteen System Parameters are dened with a single command containing
multiple elds. A typical response to the System Parameters command is shown in the following. The use
3
of each System Parameter is described in the following sections.
System Parameters
---------------- Unit Name
***** NOT SET *****
Terminal Port Baud Rate 38400
V-P Port Baud Rate 9600
Administrative Password PASSWORD
Restricted Password LOOKWORD
Passcode 12345678
Ring Count 2
Primary Dial Number
Secondary Dial Number
Clock Sync Mode None
SNTP Server 0. 0. 0. 0
Time Zone PST (UTC-8)
Daylight Saving Time Enabled
High Temp Limit 257 Degrees F
Low Temp Limit -67 Degrees F
System Parameters Command
Un it na Me
The Unit Name serves as a comprehensive logger and site ID. It is included at the top of each report.
Data from several Data Loggers can be easily distinguished by providing each unit with a unique and
descriptive name. A total of eighty alphanumeric characters can be used to dene the Unit Name. It is
assigned using the standard Edit Field techniques described in “Working with Fields” on page 16.
A Unit name can be assigned by the user to suit a variety of requirements. As an example, it may include
references to a district, city, milepost number, street and DOT designation.
The front panel LCD has a limited capacity to display information. It is limited to 4 lines of 20 characters.
The content of the rst 3 lines are xed by the logger’s rmware and cannot be changed by the user. The
20 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
content of the fourth LCD line always reects the rst 20 characters of the Unit Name as depicted in the
following.
TIME DATE
16:20:59 02-20-14
S7-300 Data Logger
COVINA_ARROWGRAND9.7
When Event Records are saved to a USB ash drive the records are contained in a folder. The folder
name is created automatically by the Data Logger. It is a copy of the rst 20 characters of the Unit Name
just as they appear on the LCD.
Guidelines and prohibitions regarding the rst 20 characters of the Unit Name are detailed in the follow‑
ing.
The rst 20 characters must be unique to each logger. Doing so assures that each USB ash drive
•
folder created by the logger will also be unique, thereby avoiding confusion in the resultant Event
Record data les.
The following Windows‑prohibited characters (11 total) cannot be used / \ ? % * : | ” < >.
•
The rst and last characters cannot be a space, period (.) or control character.
•
If a space is required for clarity, use the underscore (_) character instead.
•
te rMina L port ba UD ra te
The Terminal Port Baud rate may be assigned one of ten values. Valid settings are: 300, 600, 1200, 2400,
4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 and 115200 bps. Press the Spacebar to select a Baud rate.
The following message will be displayed if the Baud rate was changed.
Change baud rate now, then
Press any key to continue
The user must change the Baud rate of the PC to match the new setting assigned to the VDL.
V‑p por t baUD ra te
The Vital‑processor Port Baud rate may be assigned one of ten values. Valid settings are: 300, 600, 1200,
2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 and 115200 bps. Press the Spacebar to select a Baud rate.
It is strongly recommended that the Baud rate of the Siemens S7‑300 serial comm port be left at 9600.
Slower rates may introduce slight delays in the time stamping of events. Higher rates place an unneces‑
sary processing load on the system.
aD MiniS tr atiVe a nD re StriC te D paS SW orD S
Access to the VDL via any port is protected by a dual level password system. Administrative Access per‑
mits unrestricted access to all logger functions. Administrative Access allows the Setup Database to be
altered and the Event Record memory to be cleared. The Administrative Password should be known to a
limited number of users with a genuine need to know.
Restricted Access permits only limited access to the logger. It allows the user to review, but not alter, the
Setup Database and Event Record memories. The Restricted Password can be shared with users that
only need access to Event Record data when investigating an incident or resolving a maintenance issue.
3
The Administrative and Restricted Passwords are dened similarly. Each may be assigned any combina‑
tion of alphanumeric characters not exceeding eight total. To defeat the password security system as‑
sign one of the passwords a null value. This can be done by deleting all of the characters in the password
eld and then accepting the empty eld. When the password challenge is issued the user will be able to
access the system by simply pressing the Enter key.
21Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Care should be exercised in assigning and saving the Administrative Password. If it is lost or forgotten it will
be necessary to contact MICRO‑AIDE for assistance.
pa SSCoD e
The VDL can be effectively programmed and operated from its front panel. The Passcode is used to pro‑
tect the logger from unwanted access via the front panel. It must be entered when the user attempts to
alter the Setup Database. The Passcode can be assigned any combination of digits not exceeding eight
total. Alphabetic characters cannot be assigned to the Passcode.
ri ng Co Un t
The Ring Count parameter determines the number of ring cycles that must occur before the modem will
answer an incoming call. Setting the Ring Count to a sufciently large value will allow an on‑site main‑
tainer to answer a voice call prior to the VDL answering. The Ring Count can be set in the range from 0 to
99. A setting of 0 will disable the modem’s auto‑answer feature (i.e., incoming calls will not be answered
by the modem).
The following message will be displayed below the last eld in the System Parameters command if the
optional modem is not installed. No message will appear if the modem is installed.
Modem is NOT installed
pr iMary a nD Se Co nDary DiaL nUMber S
The Virtual Input feature of the VDL allows users to program a fault reporting capability into the logger. If
the fault is detected and the logger is equipped with the optional internal modem, the modem can be
enabled to dial out to a maintenance facility and transmit an Event Record that species the fault.
The telephone number the modem dials is dened by the Primary and Secondary Dial Number param‑
3
eters. Dial numbers will generally contain numeric values. An exception to this rule is that parentheses,
hyphens and space characters can be placed into the number eld for clarity. These characters will be
ignored by the modem. Additionally, the comma character can be placed anywhere in the eld to cre‑
ate an arbitrary two‑second delay. A total of twenty alphanumeric characters can be entered for each
of the dial numbers.
The VDL attempts to establish a connection by dialing the Primary Dial Number rst. If the connection
fails the next attempt is made to the Secondary Dial Number. Successive failures will force the modem to
dial alternately between the two numbers. The modem ceases further attempts after ten failures to each
number have occurred.
The VDL modem is programmed to accept only reliable connections. Consequently, the far end modem
must be programmed to establish connections that use error correction protocols such as LAP‑M and
MNP 2‑4.
CL oCK Syn C MoD e
The VDL contains a real‑time clock that allows the logger to time stamp Event Records to the nearest
tenth of a second. With any clock a small amount of drift can be expected. However, the real‑time
clock of the VDL can be precisely synchronized by employing either of the following methods.
SNTP‑Multicast or SNTP‑Unicast (requires optional Ethernet Port and accessible time server)
•
GPS time (requires optional GPS Receiver to be installed)
•
The Clock Sync Mode setting controls the synchronization method. Press the Spacebar to select one of
the following methods.
None: The real‑time clock is not synchronized.
•
The real‑time clock of the VDL (if not synchronized) features an accuracy of ±3 ppm, which is approxi‑
mately ±8 seconds per month.
22 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
SNTP: If the SNTP Server address is set to 0.0.0.0 the Multicast method is employed. This setting effec‑
•
tively disables the Unicast method in favor of Multicast. Otherwise Unicast is selected. Refer to the
section entitled “SNTP Server” on page 23.
GPS: Every hour, on the hour, the real‑time clock will be synchronized to GPS time. This occurs pro‑
•
vided the GPS Receiver is in acquisition of a valid GPS signal.
As previously stated, the real‑time clock can be synchronized automatically by means of a time server.
To use this feature the following requirements must be satised.
The time server must be enabled for either Multicast or Unicast operation.
•
The various switches, gateways and routers that comprise the LAN must be congured to propagate
•
the required SNTP messaging to and from the time server and Data Logger.
SNTP time synchronization operates as follows:
If Multicast operation is selected, the VDL will automatically update its clock upon receipt of a
•
Multicast message. In this case, the updates are under the sole control of the time server. They occur
at intervals set by the time server.
If Unicast operation is selected, at ve minutes passed every hour (e.g., 18:05:00) the VDL will send a
•
time request message to the time server. The latter will respond with a time and date message. The
VDL will receive and validate this message and update its clock accordingly.
A System Event Record is logged to memory whenever the real‑time clock is synchronized. This occurs
irrespective of the synchronization method selected. Refer to the section entitled “System Events” on
page 79 for additional details.
Sntp Se rV er
The SNTP Server setting operates in conjunction with the Clock Sync Mode setting as follows:
Set the SNTP Server address to 0.0.0.0 and the Clock Sync Mode to SNTP to enable Multicast opera‑
•
tion.
Set the SNTP Server address to the address of a suitable time server and the Clock Sync Mode to SNTP
•
to enable Unicast operation.
The I.T. group responsible for the LAN will be able to identify an appropriate time server address as well as
congure the time server appropriately.
ti Me Zo ne
The correct Time Zone setting must be assigned when the GPS or SNTP synchronization method is se‑
lected. GPS and SNTP time data is relative to UTC‑0 time, previously known as GMT. To display the cor‑
rect local time the Data Logger must convert the reported UTC time by applying the correct time zone
adjustment.
The Time Zone setting can be assigned one of seven different values that are commonly used in North
America. Each setting is explained in Table 4 on page 24.
3
23Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
TimeZoneCode Description ShiftfromUTC(hours)
AST Atlantic Standard Time ‑4
EST Eastern Standard Time ‑5
CST Central Standard Time ‑6
MST Mountain Standard Time ‑7
PST Pacic Standard Time ‑8
AKST Alaska Standard Time ‑9
HAST Hawaii Standard Time ‑10
Table 4: Time Zone Settings
Da yLigh t SaVin g tiM e
The real‑time clock of the VDL can be adjusted automatically to compensate for DST. This feature oper‑
ates independently of the Clock Sync Mode setting. If enabled, the real‑time clock will be shifted by
one hour on the second Sunday of March and the rst Sunday of November. In both cases the clock is
adjusted at 2:00 AM.
The DST feature implemented by the VDL is in full compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 2005 which
took effect in 2007.
hi gh an D LoW teM p LiM itS
The temperature inside the VDL can be measured and reported. If the temperature reaches an extreme
value a System Event will be declared and logged to memory. Refer to the section entitled “System
Events” on page 79 for additional information. The High and Low Temp Limits are used to dene the
range of acceptable operation. The settings must range from ‑67 ºF to 257 ºF.
an aLog Co nf ig Uration (a)
3
The four Analog Inputs of the VDL can be used in a variety of applications. Battery voltages and AC
voltage levels can be measured and reported by the Analog Inputs. The user can select an entry from
a preset menu that best suits the intended application. A typical response to the Analog Conguration
command is shown in the following. Default settings are listed.
Analog Conguration
Input Range Filter* Low Limit High Limit
----- ---------- ------ --------- --------- A01 +/-25.5Vdc Slow -25.6 25.5
A02 +/-25.5Vdc Slow -25.6 25.5
A03 +/-25.5Vdc Slow -25.6 25.5
A04 +/-25.5Vdc Slow -25.6 25.5
*Recommend "Slow" for AC
Analog Conguration Command
The rst column identies the input. Analog Inputs are consistently labeled by the VDL as “A01”, “A02”,
etc. The A‑prex is always used to distinguish Analog from Digital, Virtual and Timer Inputs. This rst column
of elds is xed and cannot be altered by the user. Four parameters can be used to characterize an
Analog Input. Each parameter is described in the sections that follow. Table 5 on page 25 lists the
Resolution, Filter and Limit Values applicable to each of the seven Ranges.
24 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
Range Resolution Filter LowLimit HighLimit
±25.5 Vdc .1 Vdc Slow or Fast ‑25.6 to 25.5 Vdc ‑25.6 to 25.5 Vdc
+51.1 Vdc .1 Vdc Slow or Fast 0.0 to 51.1 Vdc 0.0 to 51.1 Vdc
±255 Vdc 1 Vdc Slow or Fast ‑256 to 255 Vdc ‑256 to 255 Vdc
25.5 Vac .1 Vac Slow or Fast 0.0 to 25.5 Vac 0.0 to 25.5 Vac
255 Vac 1 Vac Slow or Fast 0 to 255 Vac 0 to 255 Vac
±25.5 Adc .1 Adc Slow or Fast ‑25.6 to 25.5 Adc ‑25.6 to 25.5 Adc
25.5 Aac .1 Aac Slow or Fast ‑25.6 to 25.5 Aac ‑25.6 to 25.5 Aac
Table 5: Analog Input Parameters
ra nge
The Range setting allows the user to congure the Analog Input for DC or AC voltage or DC or AC cur‑
rent measurements. The Range setting also selects the span of voltages or currents that will be moni‑
tored. Lastly, the Range setting selects the resolution that will be reported by the measurement. The
+51.1 Vdc range is particularly useful in monitoring batteries that may exceed 24 Vdc when charging. The
255 Vac range is useful for monitoring the AC power source connected to a battery charger. The DC and
AC current ranges are intended to be used with a MICRO‑AIDE external current sensor.
Each of the Ranges identied as AC utilize a true RMS method of measurement. Consequently, these set‑
tings can also be used when monitoring inputs with variable DC or pulse content.
fi Lter
The Filter parameter can be set to either Fast or Slow. The Fast setting utilizes a time constant of .1 sec‑
onds. It is generally used when monitoring DC signals. The Slow setting utilizes a time constant of .64 sec‑
onds. It should be used when monitoring AC signals in order to smooth out their ripple content. If the user
is unconcerned about the Filter time constant it is best to use the Slow (default) setting.
3
hi gh an D LoW LiM itS
Analog Inputs are constantly compared to two Limit Values. The High and Low Limit Values dene ranges
of acceptable and unacceptable operation. Outside the acceptable range the input is considered to
be in an abnormal state. An Event Record will be created when the Analog Input transitions into or out of
either range.
Figure 3 on page 26 illustrates the relationship of the High and Low Limit Values to the Analog Input
state. Each range denes the type of Event Record that is created by transitions of the input. The gure
depicts an Analog Input congured to monitor a typical 12 Vdc battery source. The gure indicates that
the unacceptable range includes all voltages less than 10.2 Vdc and all voltages greater than 14.5 Vdc.
The unacceptable range always consists of two portions separated by the acceptable range. If the
input is within the range extending from 10.2 to 14.5 Vdc the battery voltage is considered to be accept‑
able.
Analog Inputs with levels greater than the Low Limit Value but less than the High Limit Value will create
Event Records dened by the inactive or Off Event state. Levels found to be outside these limits will cre‑
ate Event Records dened by the active or On Event state.
In the following illustration, when the signal transitions into the unacceptable range an On Event Record
is created and identied with an Event Name of BATT_BAD. When the signal transitions into the accept‑
able range an Off Event Record is created and identied with an Event Name of BATT_OK.
25Mi cro ‑Aid e
14.5Vdc
10.2Vdc
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Unacceptable Range
On Event Record is saved with Event Name of “BATT_BAD”
Acceptable Range
Off Event Record is saved with Event Name of “BATT_OK”
Unacceptable Range
Figure 3:
3
ti Mer inp Ut S (W)
The VDL includes sixteen general purpose Timer Inputs. Each timer can be programmed individually. A
Timer Input can be used to measure the elapsed time between any two events. As an example, the time
between Digital Input events can be measured. The time a bit controlled signal is energized or un‑ener‑
gized can be measured. The interval between the loss of adequate BN voltage and a control operation
can be measured. Additionally, the user can assign Limit Values to each Timer Input. In this way, time
delays that are unacceptably short or long can be reported. Finally, Timer Inputs will generate distinguish‑
able Event Records like any other input. Included in each record is the measured time value.
The relationship shared by the From trigger source, the To terminating source and various event transi‑
tions is depicted in Figure 4 on page 27.
Analog Input Operating Ranges and Limit Values
26 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
On to Off
On to On
Trigger Source
-From-
Terminating Source
-To-
Off to On
Off to Off
Figure 4:
An array of elds similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the Timer Input command. In
the example cited, parameters for the rst Timer Input have been entered. The other elds have retained
their factory default settings. Only the rst three Timer Inputs are listed.
Timer Conguration
Timer From Event To Event LowLimit HighLimit
----- ---- ----- ---- ----- -------- -------- T01 D017 Off D999 Off 7.5 12.5
T02 --- Off --- Off 0.0 0.0
T03 --- Off --- Off 0.0 0.0
To program a Timer Input follow the steps listed in the following.
1. Position the highlight anywhere in the row identied by the Timer Input to be programmed (e.g., T01).
2. Move the highlight into the column labeled “From”. The From input is used to trigger the timer. Assign
it by entering Dn, An or Vn where n is 1 through 999 for Digital Inputs, 1 through 4 for Analog Inputs or
1 through 8 for Virtual Inputs. Leading zeros are not required.
Timer Measurements
Timer Inputs Command
3
3. Move the highlight to the right into the rst column labeled “Event”. Assign the trigger event by press‑
ing the Spacebar as required to select the On or Off setting.
4. Move the highlight to the right into the column labeled “To”. The To input is used to terminate the
timer. Assign it by entering Dn, An or Vn where n is 1 through 999 for Digital Inputs, 1 through 4 for
Analog Inputs or 1 through 8 for Virtual Inputs. Leading zeros are not required.
5. Move the highlight to the right into the second column labeled “Event”. Assign the terminating event
by pressing the Spacebar as required to select the On or Off setting.
6. Move the highlight to the right into the column labeled “LowLimit”. Enter a value within the range of 0
to 999.9 seconds. Any measured time interval that is less than this value will generate an Event Record
tagged with an Event Name of Violate.
7. Move the highlight to the right into the column labeled “HighLimit”. Enter a value within the range of
0 to 999.9 seconds. Any measured time interval that is greater than this value will also generate an
Event Record tagged with an Event Name of Violate.
8. Move the highlight to another row to program an additional Timer Input.
9. After each of the required Timer Inputs are programmed press the Esc key to complete the com‑
mand.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
In the example cited previously, the time after Digital Input 17 reaches its On state until Digital Input 999
reaches its Off state will be measured. A measured time interval of 7.5 to 12.5 seconds is considered ac‑
ceptable. Measured time intervals that are within the range established by the Limit Values will generate
Event Records tagged with an Event Name of Nominal. Refer to the following section entitled “Event
Names (E)” on page 28 for additional information.
eV ent naM eS (e)
There are two types of Event Records. Active Event Records are created when a Digital Input is dened
as a logical 1 by the Siemens S7‑300 or when an Analog Input transitions into its unacceptable range as
dened by its Limit Values. Conversely, inactive Event Records are created when a Digital Input is de‑
ned as a logical 0 by the Siemens S7‑300 or an Analog Input is within its acceptable range of operation.
Event Names allow the user to distinguish Event Records from each other in a quick and unambiguous
manner. They should not be confused with Input Names and Input Identiers (see next section). Event
Names always occur in pairs. The On Event and Off Event names form the pair. They in turn distinguish the
active and inactive Event Records, respectively.
As many as twenty Event Name pairs can be dened. Once the pairs are dened they can be assigned
to inputs of the VDL in any manner that helps the user distinguish Event Records precisely and quickly. By
way of example, the Event Records for Digital Input 1 could be labeled “XR_On” and “XR_Off”. The Event
Records for Analog Input A1 could be labeled “Bat_Norm” and “Bat_Fail”.
A typical response to the Event Name command is shown in the following. In the interest of brevity only
four of the twenty pairs are listed (i.e., 1‑3 and 20). The factory default Event Names are shown.
Event Names
Number ON Name OFF Name
------ -------- ------- 1 On Off
3
To dene a new Event Name simply position the highlight to the desired eld and type the new name.
Event Names are restricted in length to eight characters. They can be formed by any combination of
letters, numbers and syntax symbols.
As an aid to the user Event Name pair 20 is by default labeled “Violate” and “Nominal”. Furthermore,
pair 20 is by default assigned as the Event Name pair to all Timer Inputs. The pair assignment and names
can, however, be changed by the user to better suit the intended application.
2 On Off
3 On Off
20 Violate Nominal
Event Names Command
in pUt naM eS / iDentifi er S (i)
The VDL utilizes two types of inputs. The four Analog Inputs are referred to as physical inputs because ac‑
tual circuits are wired to the logger’s input connectors. The VDL also includes 999 Digital, eight Virtual and
sixteen Timer Inputs. Contrary to physical inputs, Virtual and Timer Inputs are dened by the user for the
purpose of detecting failure or alarm conditions among the physical inputs. Refer to the section entitled
“Virtual Inputs (V)” on page 29.
All inputs, regardless of type, share one common programming characteristic. The user can dene a
unique Input Name, Input Identier and Event Name pair to each input. The Input Name can be any
combination of alphanumeric characters not exceeding twenty total. The Input Name appears in each
Event Record created by the input in question. It is the primary means by which inputs are distinguished.
The Input Identier can be thought of as an abbreviated name. It is limited in length to eight alphanu‑
meric characters. It too appears in the Event Record. It is primarily used to distinguish Event Records
28 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
displayed on the LCD panel of the logger. Several of the setup commands use the Input Identier rather
than the lengthier Input Name to reference inputs.
The Event Name pairs are described in the preceding section. As many as twenty Event Name pairs can
be dened by the user. Each pair is identied by a number ranging from one to twenty. After the pairs
are dened the Input Names / Identiers command is used to assign Event Name pairs to inputs. The
Event Name pair can be assigned by using either of two methods. The Spacebar can be repeatedly
pressed when the highlight is located within the OnEvent / OffEvent eld until the desired pair is listed.
Alternatively, the number of the required Event Name pair can be entered in the last column.
A typical response to the Input Names / Identiers command is shown in the following. Only the rst three
Digital Inputs and Timer Input T16 have been listed. Analog Inputs follow Digital Inputs. The Virtual Inputs
follow the Analog Inputs. They are followed by the Timer Inputs.
Input Names/Identiers
Input Name ID OnEvent/OffEvent Event Pair
----- -------------------- -------- ----------------- --------- D001 Digital Input 001 DInpu001 On/Off 1
D002 Digital Input 002 DInpu002 On/Off 1
D003 Digital Input 003 DInpu003 On/Off 1
T16 Timer 16 Timer16 Violate/Nominal 20
[F1]=Next Page [F2]=Prev Page
Input Names / Identiers Command
Fifty‑two data screens are required to list all 1027 Digital, Analog, Virtual and Timer Inputs. To advance to
the next screen press the F1 function key. To return to the previous screen press the F2 function key.
Vi rtUaL inp Ut S (V)
Virtual Inputs are a unique feature only found in MICRO‑AIDE’s family of Event Recorders and Data
Loggers. The VDL is a powerful, general purpose recording device that can be used to satisfy the data
logging demands of a variety of applications. A recording device is frequently used to gather data on
a failure condition thought to exist in a control circuit. The failure condition may occur intermittently. The
need to log data over a signicant period of time will often impose an additional requirement upon the
device. The suspected failure can often be dened as the abnormal occurrence of states. The normal
operation of the circuit predicts that only certain states can occur. It follows that any deviation from
these normal states suggests a failure that should be agged and carefully examined.
Identifying failures that occur as the result of abnormal states is greatly simplied by using the Virtual Input
feature. Each VDL allows as many as eight Virtual Inputs to be dened. Each Virtual Input is dened by
specic logical associations among particular Digital, Analog or other Virtual Inputs.
Virtual Inputs are dened by two essential properties. The rst property concerns the selection of vari‑
ables. Variables are merely the inputs that will be checked to determine if a Virtual Input event is to be
logged. The number of variables that dene the Virtual Input can range from one to four. Variables can
be Digital Inputs, Analog Inputs, other Virtual Inputs or Timer Inputs. Assigning a Virtual Input as a variable
to another Virtual Input is referred to as nesting. Nesting allows the user to create a higher level Virtual
Input that evaluates more than four variables.
The second property pertains to the state of each assigned variable. A fault condition in a control circuit
can only be identied if the state of each variable is properly evaluated. The state of a variable is de‑
ned by the VDL as either On or Off. Both states are described in the following.
3
On – The Digital Input is dened as a logical 1 by the S7‑300. The Analog Input level is outside the ac‑
ceptable range as dened by the region between the Limit Values (refer to Figure 3 on page 26). The
Virtual Input evaluates to a true logic state. The Timer Input has reported a timed interval that is either too
fast or too slow as compared to its assigned High and Low Limit Values, respectively (refer to the section
entitled “Timer Inputs (W)” on page 26).
29Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Off
– The Digital Input is dened as a logical 0 by the S7‑300. The Analog Input level is within the accept‑
able range as dened by the region between the Limit Values. The Virtual Input evaluates to a false logic
state. The Timer Input has reported a timed interval that is within its range of assigned High and Low Limit
Values.
The procedure used to dene Virtual Inputs is described in the following two sections.
aS Signi ng Vari ab LeS
An array of elds similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the Virtual Inputs command. In
the example cited, only variables for Virtual Input V3 have been entered. The other elds have retained
their factory default settings.
Virtual Input Parameters
Input Function of: Relay Dial Out
----- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----- ------- V01 --- --- --- --- No No
V02 --- --- --- --- No No
V03 D999 D007 A04 --- Yes No
V04 --- --- --- --- No No
V05 --- --- --- --- No No
V06 --- --- --- --- No No
V07 --- --- --- --- No No
V08 --- --- --- --- No No
[F1] to edit virtual output function
Virtual Inputs Command
To assign variables perform the following steps in the order described.
1. Position the highlight anywhere in the row identied by the Virtual Input to be programmed (e.g., V3).
Then move the highlight within the row to the extreme left‑most column.
3
2. Assign the rst variable by entering Dn, An, Vn or Tn where n is 1 through 999 for Digital Inputs, 1
through 4 for Analog Inputs, 1 through 8 for Virtual Inputs or 1 through 16 for Timer Inputs. Leading
zeros are not required.
3. Move the highlight to the right. Assign the remaining variables using the previous step. Not all elds
need to be assigned a variable. To remove a variable press the 0 key or simply delete all of the char‑
acters in the eld.
4. Move the highlight to the eld in the column labeled “Relay”. Press the Spacebar to select the de‑
sired setting. The Yes setting will operate the internal relay if the Virtual Input denition is satised. The
relay will remain in its energized state for as long as the conditions that dene the Virtual Input persist.
The No setting leaves the relay unaffected by the Virtual Input.
5. Move the highlight to the eld in the column labeled “Dial Out”. Press the Spacebar to select the
desired setting. The Yes setting will allow the internal modem (if installed) to dial the telephone num‑
bers dened by the Primary and Secondary Dial Number parameters. Refer to the section entitled
“Primary and Secondary Dial Numbers” on page 22. If the modem is able to connect with the far
end an Event Record for the Virtual Input will be issued.
6. Press the F1 function key to proceed to the next step.
A sample response listing three variables is shown in the following. To complete the denition of the
Virtual Input the state of each variable must now be assigned.
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Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
Virtual Output Function
Inputs: Output:
D999 D007 A04 --- V03
POK Rly App Lite Battery VInput03
-------- -------- -------- -------- ------- POK Up Lite On Bat Norm Alrm Off
POK Dwn Lite On Bat Norm Alrm Off
POK Up Lite Off Bat Norm Alrm Off
POK Dwn Lite Off Bat Norm Alrm Off
POK Up Lite On Bat Bad Alrm Off
POK Dwn Lite On Bat Bad Alrm Off
POK Up Lite Off Bat Bad Alrm Off
POK Dwn Lite Off Bat Bad Alrm On
Assigning States to Virtual Inputs
Se LeCti ng Stat eS
Before proceeding further the table of state selection elds must be understood. Each Virtual Input
will have its own data table. However, the basic structure of each table will remain the same. Refer to
the sample data entitled “Assigning States to Virtual Inputs” on page 31. Each row lists, from left to
right, the Input Numbers that are assigned to each variable (e.g., labeled “D999”, “D007” and “A04”).
Unassigned variables are labeled “‑‑‑”. The last column of the third line lists the Input Number of the
Virtual Input being dened (e.g., labeled “V03”). Directly below the Input Numbers on the fourth line
of text is listed the Input Identier for the variable. For the sample data shown the Input Identiers are
labeled “POK Rly”, “App Lite” and “Battery”. The Virtual Input has retained its default Input Identier,
labeled “VInput03”.
The remaining lines of text will vary with the number of assigned variables. One variable will list two lines
of text. Two variables will list four lines of text. Three variables will list eight lines of text. Four variables
will list sixteen lines of text. Each line will specify a state for each of the assigned variables (i.e., inputs).
Each state is identied by its user‑dened Event Name. The states for the variable labeled “POK Rly” are
“POK Up” and “POK Dwn”. The sample data includes three variables, so eight lines of text lists all of the
possible variable states.
The last column of data in each line includes a selection eld. The eld can be set, line by line, to an
active or inactive state. The user decides which state to assign to the Virtual Input for each combination
of variable states. For the sample data shown, the Virtual Input is assigned to its active state (labeled
“Alrm On”) when the variable’s states are POK Dwn, Lite Off and Bat Bad. Anytime this combination of
states is found to exist among inputs D999, D7 and A4, respectively, an active Event Record for Virtual
Input V3 will be created and stored in memory. An additional, inactive Event Record will be created
when the variable states no longer satisfy these requirements.
Perform the following steps to complete the Virtual Input programming procedure.
1. Move the highlight to the rst line of text that lists the input states.
2. Press the Spacebar to select the correct Event Name for that combination of input states.
3. Move the highlight to the next line and repeat the preceding step.
4. When the Virtual Input state is correctly dened for each line press the Esc key and return to the vari‑
able assignment table.
5. Press the Esc key to exit the command or reposition the highlight and select the next Virtual Input.
Repeat both of the previously described procedures as required.
3
ne tWorK (n)
The Network command is used to congure the Ethernet Port. A set of six user‑assigned elds with data
similar to the following will be displayed after the command is selected.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Network Setup
------------ IP Address 192.168. 0.100
Subnet Mask 255.255.255. 0
Gateway 0. 0. 0. 0
Ethernet MAC Address 00-08-DC-01-23-45
Port 5000
TCP/IP mode Raw TCP/IP
Network Command
A description of each eld follows.
ip aDDr eS S
The IP Address must be set in accordance with the requirements of the LAN or the same as the address
used by the TCP / IP connection of the PC. The initial setting is typically 192.168.0.100.
SU bnet Ma SK
The Subnet Mask must also be set in accordance with the requirements of the LAN. A value of
255.255.255.0 should be acceptable for a directly connected PC. The initial setting is typically
255.255.255.0.
ga teWay
If a Gateway is being used by the LAN it too must be set in accordance with the LAN requirements. A
setting of 0.0.0.0 is acceptable for a directly connected PC or a LAN when communications through a
Gateway are not required. The initial setting is typically 0.0.0.0.
et herne t MaC aDD reSS
The rst three numbers that comprise the MAC Address must be 00‑08‑DC. They must not be changed as
they are uniquely associated with the Ethernet module used by the VDL. The remaining three numbers
3
must not be shared by any other Ethernet device on the LAN. The initial setting is 00‑08‑DC‑aa‑bb‑cc,
where aa‑bb‑cc is the serial number assigned by MICRO‑AIDE to the logger. By way of example, a VDL
with a serial number of 12345 will have a factory assigned MAC Address of 00‑08‑DC‑01‑23‑45. This ad‑
dress is guaranteed to be unique.
Use extreme caution in modifying the logger’s MAC Address. Serious LAN conicts will be created if dupli‑
cate MAC Addresses are allowed to exist. Also, restoring a Setup Database will alter the MAC Address if
the saved database includes a different MAC Address.
po rt
The Port assignment must also be selected in accordance with the requirements of the LAN. For a di‑
rectly connected PC any value greater than 1024 is acceptable. The initial setting is typically 5000.
tCp / ip MoDe
A Selection Field is used to assign the TCP / IP Mode setting. Press the Spacebar to select either Raw
TCP / IP or Telnet. Generally, the Raw TCP / IP setting is acceptable. However, the Telnet setting must be
used when the Setup Database is being uploaded or downloaded using HyperTerminal. These data
transfers rely upon the Xmodem protocol which always deals with binary data. To insure data transpar‑
ency, Telnet mode must be selected for all Xmodem transfers. Raw TCP / IP is the initial setting.
Press the Esc key after all of the elds are properly dened. The following message will be displayed if the
MAC Address was altered.
CHANGE MAC ADDRESS (normally 00-08-DC-xx-xx-xx), are you SURE?
No Yes
Select Yes to proceed. Finally, the following message will conrm the change(s) to be made.
32 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
Network settings changed, restart network now?
No Yes
The six elds that comprise the Ethernet Port settings can only be altered by use of the Network com‑
mand or by uploading a different Setup Database. The Reset System command will not change any of
the Network settings.
If a Telnet connection is idle for more than ve minutes a timeout condition will occur. The timeout will
result in a forced disconnection at the VDL end. The user will then have to initiate a new connection
procedure to re‑establish communications with the logger. The timeout duration and forced disconnec‑
tion is performed so that in the event of a connection failure anywhere in the network, the logger will be
prepared to complete a subsequent connection attempt. However, to be successful the subsequent
connection attempt must occur no sooner than ve minutes after the communications disruption. The
logger will automatically recover from communication failures of less than ve minutes duration provided
the user end does not perform a disconnect.
pr int Set Up Data (p)
The Print Setup Data command can be used to display the setup parameters assigned by the user. The
following menu of sub‑commands is displayed after selecting the Print Setup Data command.
Print Setup Data
P Print All
E Print Event Names
I Print Input Names/Identiers
A Print Analog Conguration
V Print Virtual Inputs
T Print Timer Conguration
N Print Network Settings
S Print System Parameters
Print Setup Data Command
3
The Print All command can be used at the end of the Setup Procedure to display the entire Setup
Database. The remaining commands are used to display specic portions of the Setup Database.
The Print All command will issue a lengthy stream of data that will exceed the viewing capacity of a
single terminal screen. The user may wish to temporarily pause the data for better viewing. Refer to the
procedure entitled “Data Flow Control” on page 16.
tranSfer fiLeS (t)
A VDL will require a considerable amount of data entry if every input is assigned an Input Name, Event
Name pair, etc., that differs from its factory default value. In the event of an accidental loss of data
memory (e.g., a reset performed by mistake) each Input Name and Event Name pair will need to be re‑
entered. The Transfer Files command provides the user with a quick and simple data exchange alterna‑
tive to re‑entering the Setup Database by hand.
The Download Setup Data command is used to transmit the Setup Database to a data storage system. A
PC running a communications program like HyperTerminal makes an ideal storage system. A le contain‑
ing the setup parameters can be permanently saved on the hard disk or a ash drive for later retrieval
via the Upload Setup Data command.
To initiate a download or upload of the Setup Database, execute the Transfer Files command. The fol‑
lowing sub‑menu will be displayed. The transfer Setup Database procedures are described in the two
sections that follow.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
File Transfer
D Download Setup Data VDL to PC
U Upload Setup Data PC to VDL
F Firmware Upload
Transfer Files Command
Do WnLoaD Se tU p Data (D) ‑ SaV ing the Dat abaSe
Before the Setup Database can be saved the PC and communications program must be properly con‑
gured. The following list describes the correct conguration.
Transfer protocol: Xmodem.
•
Connection: If the logger’s Terminal Port is being used select Direct connect‑Com1 or Direct connect‑
•
Com2 (whichever is available). If the modem is being used the host modem must be logged‑on with
the logger.
Baud rate: as required by the Terminal Port and set to 8‑N‑1 (does not apply when connected via the
•
USB Device Port or modem).
The failure to select the proper transfer protocol (i.e., Xmodem) is the most common mistake made in this
procedure.
To save the Setup Database to a PC le select the Download Setup Data command. The following mes‑
sage will be displayed.
Sending Setup Data via XMODEM... (Ctrl-X to stop)
3
The steps necessary to complete the download depend upon which communications application is be‑
ing used. The following example describes the HyperTerminal method. HyperTerminal 7.0 was used in the
following procedure. Other versions of this program may be slightly different. However, the fundamental
approach will remain valid.
hy perte rM inaL
1. With the mouse, click on the Transfers command, then the Receive File... command. The Receive File
dialog box will open. Verify that the Xmodem protocol is selected.
2. Select the correct disk drive and folder. Click the Receive button. The Receive Filename dialog box
will open.
3. Enter a lename (e.g., setup_10.bin). The three‑character le extension must be dened. If the various
settings are correct click on the OK button.
4. An information box will automatically open. It will indicate the progress of the transfer. After a few
seconds (depending upon the Baud rate) the information box will close automatically to indicate a
successful transfer.
5. After the successful completion of the transfer the VDL will issue the following message.
Transfer complete
Press any key to continue
The following message is issued if the le is not promptly opened after initiating the download.
Transfer error
Press any key to continue
The user can then make a second attempt by selecting the Download Setup Data command again.
34 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 3 – Se tU p Se tUp pro CeDUr e
Up LoaD Se tU p Data (U) ‑ reS to ring the Da tabaSe
Before the Setup Database can be restored to the logger it must have been previously saved. Refer to
the procedure entitled “Download Setup Data (D) ‑ Saving the Database” on page 34. The PC and
communications program must be properly congured before the Setup Database can be restored. The
following list describes the correct conguration.
Transfer protocol: Xmodem.
•
Connection: If the logger’s Terminal Port is being used select Direct connect‑Com1 or Direct connect‑
•
Com2 (whichever is available). If the modem is being used the host modem must be logged‑on with
the logger.
Baud rate: as required by the Terminal Port and set to 8‑N‑1 (does not apply when connected via the
•
USB Device Port or modem).
The failure to select the proper transfer protocol (i.e., Xmodem) is the most common mistake made in this
procedure.
To restore the Setup Database to the logger from a PC le select the Upload Setup Data command. The
following message will be displayed.
Are you SURE you want to upload new Setup Data from PC to VDL?
No Yes
Select No to abort the upload. Select Yes to proceed. If the user elects to proceed with the upload the
following message will be displayed.
Receiving Setup Data via XMODEM... (Ctrl-X to stop)
CCCCC
The sequence of C characters indicates the logger is waiting for the Xmodem le.
The steps necessary to complete the upload depend upon which communications application is being
used. The following example describes the HyperTerminal method. HyperTerminal 7.0 was used in the
following procedure. Other versions of this program may be slightly different. However, the fundamental
approach will remain valid.
hy perte rM inaL
1. With the mouse, click on the Transfers command, then the Send File... command. The Send File dialog
box will open. Verify that the Xmodem protocol is selected.
2. Select the correct disk drive, folder and lename (e.g., setup_10.bin). If the various settings are cor‑
rect click the Send button.
3. An information box will automatically open. It will indicate the progress of the transfer. After a few
seconds (depending upon the Baud rate) the information box will close automatically to indicate a
successful transfer.
After the successful completion of the transfer the VDL will issue the following message.
Upload completed
Press any key to continue
3
The following message will be issued if the le is not promptly sent after initiating the upload.
Transfer error
Press any key to continue
The user can then make a second attempt by selecting the Upload Setup Data command again.
35Mi cro ‑Aid e
Log off (x)
The Log Off command is used to terminate Administrative and Restricted Access sessions. If the previous
user logs off of the VDL, access can be regained only by entering the correct password. If the previous
user fails to log off, a second user will be allowed access without entering a correct password.
All sessions should be terminated by executing the Log Off command.
To log off of the VDL, access the Main Menu and then press the X key. The following message will be
displayed.
If the user proceeds with the log off the current session will be immediately terminated.
This completes the Setup Procedure for the VDL S7‑300. The logger is now prepared to log events in ac‑
cordance with the setup performed by the user. Since the installation and setup of the logger are critical
to how the VDL will perform, it is advisable to review the steps taken earlier.
The next chapter describes how to operate the VDL.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
About to Log Off, are you sure?
No Yes
Log Off Command
3
36 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 4 – operation
introDUCtion
This chapter describes how to operate the VDL S7‑300 from a PC running a suitable communications
program. Local (i.e., on‑site) as well as remote methods of operating the Data Logger are described.
Before the logger can be operated it must be properly installed and set up. A PC must be online with the
logger. The use of the LCD panel and keypad are described in the next chapter.
MULti‑USer operation
A unique feature of all MICRO‑AIDE Event Recorders and Data Loggers is their ability to handle simulta‑
neous operation from multiple users via the Terminal Port, Ethernet Port, modem, front panel keypad, or
in the case of the VDL, via the USB Device Port. This multi‑user capability eliminates the annoying practice
in some devices of one user effectively locking‑out a second or third user.
reMote operation
The setup procedures and operational capabilities of the VDL can be exercised remotely via the
optional Ethernet Port or internal modem. The Ethernet Port is capable of supporting a Telnet connec‑
tion via TCP / IP. The modem will operate at speeds up to 33,600 Baud. It provides industry standard error
correction and data compression features. An Ethernet‑ or modem‑equipped PC running a communica‑
tions program (e.g., GEA or HyperTerminal) makes an ideal remote access system. Event Records and
other data from several remote Data Loggers can be easily gathered and saved as a le on a hard disk
or ash drive.
4
There are a few steps the remote user or host system must perform before remote access is possible.
Each of these steps is described in the sections that follow.
eStabLiShing an ethernet Co nne Cti on
An Ethernet connection can only be established if the logger’s optional Ethernet Port is properly con‑
gured. An IP Address and Port Number must be assigned. The procedure for doing so is described in
the section entitled “Network (N)” on page 31. Perform the steps listed in the following to establish an
Ethernet connection. The procedure assumes that the user will access the logger via a LAN.
1. Assign an IP Address and Port Number to the logger’s Ethernet Port in accordance with the require‑
ments of the LAN.
2. Connect the VDL to either a switch or hub device using a CAT‑5 cable.
3. Congure the communications application (e.g., HyperTerminal) to connect using TCP / IP (Winsock).
4. Within the communications application enter the logger’s IP Address and Port Number as the target
IP Address and associated Port Number. HyperTerminal refers to the target device as a host.
5. Click the appropriate icon that initiates the connection.
The procedure described previously is the same if the PC is connected directly to the logger. A successful
connection is indicated by a log‑on password request regardless of the interconnection method em‑
ployed.
37Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
eStabLiShing a MoDeM Con neC tio n
A standard telephone line must be attached to the modem of the VDL. To access the logger the host
system must dial the telephone number of the VDL and wait for an answer. The logger’s modem will
answer after a predetermined number of rings. Refer to the section entitled “Ring Count” on page 22.
The modems will then handshake. The handshake ensures that the modems can communicate with
each other at an appropriate speed. A connection is established upon the successful completion of the
handshake.
The VDL will only permit reliable connections to be established. The host modem should be programmed
for MNP 2‑4 or LAP‑M operation.
Logging on
Immediately after a connection is established the VDL will issue a password request similar to the follow‑
ing.
Siemens S7-300 Data Logger. Ver 1.13 (C) 2011 MICRO-AIDE INC.
***** NOT SET *****
Event storage capacity: 284,785
Enter password:
Password Request
The host system must issue the correct password followed by an Enter. Passwords are dened in accor‑
dance with the procedure entitled “Administrative and Restricted Passwords” on page 21.
The default Administrative and Restricted Access passwords are PASSWORD and LOOKWORD, respec‑
4
tively. Passwords are case sensitive.
The host system is given three attempts to enter the correct password. A third error will result in a dis‑
connect by the logger. This procedure prevents unwanted users from accessing the logger. After the
password is entered the user will be able to operate the logger in a manner identical to that specied
by local operation. Accordingly, the VDL will display the Main Menu of commands. Refer to the sample
data entitled “Main Menu” on page 15.
hoW to operate the VDL
An explanation of each operational command is included in the remaining sections of this chapter.
Operational commands may be executed in any sequence. The user may wish to perform operations in
one sequence and then, depending upon the observed data, perform a different sequence of com‑
mands. Each command is listed by its name (as it appears in the Main Menu) followed by its command
code contained within parenthesis.
qUery eVentS (q)
The Query Events command provides the principal means by which Event Records are inspected. It al‑
lows the user to inspect events for a particular time frame and/or specic set of inputs. Additionally, the
Query Events command includes several data output options that can be selectively employed de‑
pending upon the user’s data display requirements.
The following sample data shows a typical response to the Query Events command.
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Ch apter 4 – op erati on ho W to op erate t he VDL
Select Range of Dates
03-03-13 03-04-13 03-05-13 03-06-13 03-07-13 03-08-13 03-09-13 03-10-13
03-11-13 03-13-13 03-14-13 03-15-13 03-16-13 03-17-13 03-18-13 03-19-13
03-20-13 03-21-13 03-22-13 03-23-13 03-24-13 03-25-13 03-26-13 03-27-13
03-28-13 03-29-13 03-30-13 03-31-13 04-01-13 04-02-13 04-03-13
Use arrow keys to move, Space=start selection, Enter=accept, ESC=cancel
Query Events Command ‑ Table of Dates
The data array forms a table of dates in MM‑DD‑YY format. The table indicates that at least one Event
Record was logged in memory for each day listed. Days where no records were logged will not be in‑
cluded in the table (e.g., 03‑12‑13). The VDL can store Event Records for 128 different dates provided the
event storage capacity is not exceeded.
The VDL utilizes a rotating memory. Records from the 129th day will automatically over‑write records from
the rst day regardless of how many records are stored in memory.
The rst step in using the Query Events command is to select the date or range of dates that the user
wishes to inspect. Slightly different procedures are used to select a single date or range of dates. Both
procedures are described in the following.
Se LeCting a SingLe Dat e
1. Using the appropriate arrow keys highlight the single date of interest.
2. Press the Enter key.
Se LeCting a range of Dat eS
1. Using the appropriate arrow keys highlight the rst date in the range.
2. Press the Spacebar to anchor one end of the range to be highlighted.
3. Press the appropriate arrow keys until each date in the desired range is highlighted.
4. Press the Enter key to accept the highlighted range of dates.
The Esc key can be pressed at any time to cancel the selection. The user will then be returned to the
Main Menu.
qU ery rep or t MenU
After the date(s) is selected, an array of Selection and Edit Fields entitled “Query Report” will be dis‑
played. The following sample data shows a typical Query Report.
4
39Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Query Report
Start Date: 03-14-13
Start Time: 00:00:00
End Date: 03-14-13
End Time: 23:59:59
Include Details: Yes
Reverse order: No
Report Type: Dump
Inputs:
(blank=all)
[F1]=Execute Report, ESC=cancel
Query Report Menu
The Event Records of interest to the user can be further qualied by the six elds listed in the Query Report
menu. The use of each eld is described in the sections that follow.
St art tiM e
Event Records that are time stamped after the assigned Start Time (for the day selected as the Start
Date) will be issued by the Query Command. The Start Time can be assigned any value from 00:00:00 to
23:59:59. The default setting is always 00:00:00. The Start Time must be entered in military format.
en D tiM e
Event Records that are time stamped before the assigned End Time (for the day selected as the End
Date) will be issued by the Query Command. The End Time can be assigned any value from 00:00:00 to
23:59:59. The default setting is always 23:59:59. The End Time must be entered in military format.
4
in CLUDe DetaiL S
The VDL can format Event Records in two different ways. Press the Spacebar to select one of the format‑
ting options described in the following.
A complete explanation of Event Record formats is included at the end of this chapter. Refer to the sec‑
tion entitled “Event Record Formatting” on page 43. The numbers included in each of the headings
listed in the following specify the number of lines of text each formatting option will create.
Yes(2) – The status of each Digital Input, the level of each Analog Input and the status of each Virtual
Input is listed with data concerning the input that created the record.
No(1) – Only information concerning the input that created the record is listed.
re VerSe orDer
The Reverse Order option can be set to either No (default setting) or Yes. The default setting will result
in the oldest records being issued rst. They will be followed by newer records. If enabled, the Reverse
Order option will issue the most recent records rst. In either case, Event Records are always issued in
chronological sequence.
re port ty pe
The Report Type eld can be set to Dump (default setting), Browse or Comma. The proper selection de‑
pends upon the user’s requirement. Each option is described in the following sections.
Dump – The Dump option is used if a large number of records are to be inspected or captured to a PC
le. Refer to the section entitled “Capturing Event Records to a PC File” on page 47. The Dump option
will issue Event Records in a continuous stream. The streaming of records will only cease when the last
record is issued or the user executes a Pause or Abort command. Refer to the section entitled “Data Flow
Control” on page 16.
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Ch apter 4 – op erati on ho W to op erate t he VDL
Browse – The Browse option allows the user to inspect a set of records one screen at a time. It will typi‑
cally display eleven one‑line records or seven two‑line records. The same set of records will be displayed
indenitely until the user presses an arrow key to review additional records. The Browse option is most use‑
ful when a limited number of records in a narrow time frame need to be reviewed.
A completely new screen of records can be displayed by pressing the up and down arrow keys. The next
record in the chronological sequence can be added to the display set by pressing the left and right ar‑
row keys. The last line of text in each screen explains the use of the arrow keys.
Comma – The Comma option formats the Event Record data so that it can be easily imported to a
®
spreadsheet or database application such as Excel
question must rst be written to a PC le. Refer to the section entitled “Capturing Event Records to a PC
File” on page 47. This option takes the various data elds that comprise a record and separates them
with a comma. Intervening spaces are eliminated. The processing application will place the record
elds into cells or elds that satisfy its own processing requirements. This formatting technique is frequently
referred to as Comma Separated Values (CSV). The Comma report option is described in detail in the
section entitled “CSV Report Type” on page 45.
When the Report Type is set to Comma the Include Details setting is ignored. All Event Records for the
selected time period will be issued and similarly formatted.
or Access®, respectively. However, the records in
in pUtS
The Inputs eld allows the user to inspect Event Records from specic inputs. The default setting (Inputs
eld is blank) will issue records from all inputs. To select specic inputs a valid Input Number must be en‑
tered. Digital Inputs are entered as Dn, where n is 1 through 999. Analog Inputs are entered as An, where
n is 1 through 4. Virtual Inputs are entered as Vn, where n is 1 through 8. Timer Inputs are entered as Tn,
where n is 1 through 16. System Event Inputs are entered as Sn, where n is 1 through 6. Leading zeros are
not required.
System Event Inputs are another type of non‑physical input that can create Event Records. System Event
Records are used to report the status of the logger at a specic moment in time. Refer to the section
entitled “System Events” on page 79 for additional details.
Multiple inputs can be selected by using the following methods. Separate two Input Numbers by a single
space character. Select a contiguous range of inputs by including a ‑ (hyphen) between two n numbers.
The contiguous range option can be applied to all input types.
4
The set of Input Numbers must be terminated by pressing the Enter key. The following example illustrates
a typical Inputs eld entry.
Inputs: d2 D5-8 a3 d999 v7 A1-2
(blank=all)
As the example indicates, the input type designator can be entered as an upper‑ or lower‑case letter.
Input Numbers can be entered without regard to sequence. Event Records for Digital Inputs 2, 5, 6, 7, 8,
999, Analog Inputs A1, A2, A3 and Virtual Input V7 will be issued.
After the inputs are selected the user must press the F1 function key to complete the command. Event
Records will then be issued in accordance with all of the settings selected by the user. Event Records will
automatically cease being issued when the Report Type is set to Dump or Comma. After the last Event
Record a message similar to the following will be displayed.
Number of records = 24 Checksum = 93F4
End of report
Hit any key to continue
Record Count and Checksum
The exact number of records included in the report is always specied. A checksum is also included. The
checksum is calculated from the rst character of the rst record through the last character of the last
41Mi cro ‑Aid e
record. Any report that issues the same set of records will always list the same checksum value regardless
of when the report was generated. Accordingly, alteration of the record data can be detected pro‑
vided the original data and checksum are known.
VieW eVentS (V)
The View Events command allows the user to display Event Records in real‑time. Immediately after an
event is detected its corresponding Event Record will be issued to the active user port (i.e., Terminal,
Ethernet, USB Device or modem). This command can be very useful in tracking events that are occur‑
ring while the user is online with the logger. It can also be used effectively during the Initial Check‑Out
Procedure to verify that each input is properly cabled. The records can simultaneously be written to a
text le. Refer to the section entitled “Capturing Event Records to a PC File” on page 47.
The following message will be issued after the command has been selected.
View Events Report
Include Details: Yes
Inputs:
(blank=all)
[F1]=Execute Report, ESC=cancel
The Event Records of interest to the user can be qualied by the two elds listed in the View Events
Report. The use of each of these elds is described in the following sections.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
View Events Command
in CLUDe Det ai LS
This setting allows the user to select the level of detail to be included in each Event Record. Refer to the
4
section entitled “Event Record Formatting” on page 43 for additional information regarding the use of
this eld.
in pUtS
The use of the Inputs eld allows the user to review records from specic inputs. The use of this eld is de‑
scribed in the section entitled “Inputs” on page 41.
After the selection elds are assigned press the F1 function key to start the report. The logger will con‑
tinue to issue records as they occur in real‑time. Press the Esc key to terminate the report.
LiVe StatUS (L)
The Live Status command can be very useful in verifying that inputs are wired and labeled correctly.
Additionally, it can be used to determine if the inputs are operating properly. It provides a single‑screen
snapshot of the present state of various logger inputs (i.e., Digital, Analog and Virtual). The state or mea‑
sured value of each input is continuously and automatically updated. The Live Status report indicates the
state of each Analog and Virtual Input by the use of its user‑assigned Input Identier and Event Name.
The latter are described in the sections entitled “Input Names / Identiers (I)” on page 28 and “Event
Names (E)” on page 28, respectively.
To properly view the Live Status report the PC must be congured to emulate an ANSI terminal.
Four data screens are required to display all 1011 Digital, Analog and Virtual Inputs. The following is an
example of the rst screen used by the Live Status report.
42 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 4 – op erati on eV ent reC orD for Mat ti ng
Live Status 09:41:21 02-20-14
D001-D032 X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D033-D064 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D065-D096 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D097-D128 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D129-D160 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D161-D192 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D193-D224 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D225-D256 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VInput01: Off VInput05: Off Bat_24 24.3Vdc Good
Alarm_2: Active VInput06: Off AC_110V 89Vac AC_Fail
VInput03: Off VInput07: Off AInput03 0.0Vdc Off
VInput04: Off VInput08: Off Battery 13.4Vdc Normal
[ESC]=exit [F1]=next page [F2]=prev page
Live Status Report ‑ Digital and Analog Inputs
The Live Status report includes a header that lists the present time and date. The states of the rst 256
Digital Inputs are listed in the eight lines of text that follow the header. The VDL uses the same convention
employed by MICRO‑AIDE Event Recorders for labeling input states. An X or . (period) character is used
to indicate the state as either On (active) or Off (inactive), respectively.
The status of Digital Inputs is controlled and reported by the Siemens S7‑300. The VDL considers a logic 1
reported by the S7‑300 to be On and a logic 0 to be Off.
Press the F1 and F2 function keys to view the Live Status of additional Digital Inputs. The next four rows of
text in each screen provide information regarding the eight Virtual Inputs and four Analog Inputs.
The sample data indicates that Digital Input 1 is active. The other Digital Inputs are inactive. The DC volt‑
age source connected to Analog Input A1 is acceptable at 24.3 Vdc and is therefore reported as being
in a Good state. The AC voltage monitored by Analog Input A2 is low at 89 Vac. The Battery potential at
Analog Input A4 is 13.4 Vdc, which is considered to be Normal. Finally, the low AC voltage has caused
Virtual Input 2 (Input Identier of Alarm_2) to be activated.
eVent reCorD forMatting
Event Records provide the user with information about the status of each input at a specied mo‑
ment in time. Event Records consist of printable ASCII characters. Two different formatting methods are
employed by the VDL. They create one‑ and two‑line records. The formatting options are referred to as
No Details and Include Details. Respectively, they correspond to the No and Yes settings of the Include
Details elds which are features of the Query Events and View Events commands.
The following sample Event Records do not reect actual signal activity. Accordingly, the data should
not be taken too literally. The sequence of events would not normally occur at a crossing. The data is
illustrative only for the purposes of explanation.
no DetaiLS
The one‑line form is used to provide event information from a single input. Analog Input levels, Digital and
Virtual Input status information is not listed in this format. Six sample records are shown in the following.
4
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
02:01:05.0 03/14/13 System Power Power OFF S01
02:01:37.0 03/14/13 System Power Power ON S01
08:05:55.2 03/14/13 Gate Up Ind GateUp On D006
10:12:01.3 03/14/13 Island 1 Island 1 I1 Down D003
00:05:00.2 03/15/13 Sntp Clock Sync SntpSync OFF S04
10:00:55.4 03/15/13 Gate Delay Timer16 Violate T16 31.1s
Event Records with No Details
Time – The time the event was detected is indicated in military‑style HH:MM:SS format. The time is identi‑
ed to the nearest tenth of a second.
Date – The date the event was detected is indicated in MM/DD/YY format.
InputName – The twenty‑character Input Name identies the input. An Input Name of Gate Up Ind is
listed in the third sample record.
InputIdentier – The eight‑character Input Identier further identies the input. The Identier GateUp is
listed in the third sample record.
EventName – The Event Name identies the type of event detected at the input. The Event Name listed
will always be a member of the Event Name pair assigned to the input. The Event Name I1 Down listed in
the fourth Event Record clearly indicates to the user the type of event that was recorded.
InputNumber – The Input Number is frequently, but not always, the last data eld listed. The record may
be from a Digital (D001 through D999), Analog (A01 through A04), Virtual (V01 through V08), Timer (T01
through T16) or System Event (S01 through S06).
4
MeasuredTime – Some Event Records will include a data eld after the Input Number. Timer Inputs will
include a measured duration. The last sample record includes a measured value.
The rst two sample records are from System Input 1 (i.e., S1). The records indicate when power was lost
and then restored to the logger. During the 32‑second‑long interval no events could be detected or
recorded.
inCLUDe DetaiLS
The two‑line form is used to provide additional input information. The rst line is formatted identically to
that used by the No Details option. Refer to the section entitled “No Details” on page 43. The following
sample record is the third Event Record from the previous section.
08:05:55.2 03/14/13 Gate Up Ind GateUp On D006
x....X.... .......... ..x..... 12.9Vdc 13.4Vdc 0.0Vdc 0.0Vdc
Event Records with All Details
The left end of the second line of text is used to indicate the state of each Digital Input, in a group of 20,
at the time the event was recorded. A pattern of x and . (period) characters are shown in the sample
record. The left‑most character, in the rst group of ten, indicates the state of Digital Input D1. The
right‑most character, in the second group of ten, indicates the state of Digital Input D20. There are four
symbols used to indicate the state of Digital Inputs. They are described in the section entitled “Symbol
Legend” on page 45.
The middle section of the second line of text includes a sequence of eight characters that indicate the
state of each Virtual Input at the time the event was recorded. A pattern of x and . (period) characters
are shown in the sample record. The left‑most character, in the group of eight, indicates the state of
Virtual Input V1. The right‑most character indicates the state of Virtual Input V8. There are four symbols
used to indicate the state of Virtual Inputs. They are described in the section entitled “Symbol Legend”
on page 45.
44 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 4 – op erati on CSV rep or t typ e
Finally, the second line of text also lists the measured levels of each Analog Input. From left to right, A1
through A4 are reported. The units of measurement are always displayed to the right of the measured
level (e.g., Vdc and Vac). To the right of the units of measurement data is a single‑character indicator.
It is used to indicate the state of the Analog Input relative to the user‑dened Limit Values. There are four
symbols used to indicate the state of Analog Inputs. They are described in the section entitled “Symbol
Legend” on page 45.
SyMboL LegenD
The four symbols used to indicate the state of Digital and Virtual Inputs are described in the following
table.
Symbol Definition
X Upper‑case X The input has transitioned into its On state. The referenced input is the source
of the Event Record. The assigned On Event Name is listed as the Event Name.
x Lower‑case x The input remains in its On state. The referenced input is not the source of the
Event Record.
: Colon The input has transitioned into its Off state. The referenced input is the source
of the Event Record. The assigned Off Event Name is listed as the Event Name.
. Period The input remains in its Off state. The referenced input is not the source of the
Event Record.
Table 6: Symbol Legend ‑ Digital and Virtual Inputs
The four symbols used to indicate the state of an Analog Input are described in the following table.
Symbol Definition
* Asterisk The input has transitioned into its unacceptable range of operation. The refer‑
! Exclamation mark The input remains in its unacceptable range of operation. The referenced
= Equal sign The input has transitioned into its acceptable range of operation. The refer‑
(blank) The input remains in its acceptable range of operation. The referenced input
Event Names and Analog Limit Values are described in the sections entitled “Event Names (E)” on page
28 and “High and Low Limits” on page 25, respectively.
CSV report type
The Query Events command provides an additional formatting option that can be selected by setting
the Report Type to Comma. This section includes a description of a typical Comma Separated Value
(CSV) report.
CSV SaMpLe report
Listed in the following is a typical response to the Query Events command when the Report Type is set to
Comma. Several of the sample records from the previous section have been used in the following.
enced input is the source of the Event Record. The assigned On Event Name is
listed as the Event Name.
input is not the source of the Event Record.
enced input is the source of the Event Record. The assigned Off Event Name is
listed as the Event Name.
is not the source of the Event Record.
Table 7: Symbol Legend ‑ Analog Inputs
4
45Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
22:39:46,03/15/13
"COVINA_ARROWGRAND9.7"
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,1,1,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,1,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,1
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0
0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,1
0,0,0,0,0,0,1,0,0,0,0,1,0,0,0,0,0,0,1
02:01:05.0,03/14/13,"System Power","OFF",285
02:01:37.0,03/14/13,"System Power","ON",285
4
08:05:55.2,03/14/13,"Gate Up Ind","ON",6
10:12:01.3,03/14/13,"Island 1","OFF",3
Comma Separated Value Report
Each report includes a 34 line header. The content of the header is fully described in the following.
Line1 – Lists the time and date the report was generated.
Line2 – Lists the user‑assigned Unit Name.
Lines3‑33 – Contain a bit map that indicates the state of Digital Inputs at the moment just prior to the
rst Event Record listed. From left to right, top to bottom, Digital Inputs 1 through 992 are represented.
In the sample data previously cited, Digital Inputs 10, 11, 40, 64 and 992 are reported as On. The other
Digital Inputs are Off.
Line34 – The states of the remaining seven Digital Inputs (i.e., 993 through 999) are listed at the start of this
line. These states are followed by the states of each Analog and Virtual Input at the moment just prior
to the rst Event Record listed. Analog Inputs are represented by the rst four positions. Virtual Inputs are
represented by the remaining eight positions. In the sample data previously cited, Digital Input 999 is On.
All of the Analog Inputs are in their acceptable range of operation. Virtual Inputs 1 and 8 are On.
Event Records that satisfy the user selected date and time criteria are listed after the header. Records
include ve or six data elds separated by a single comma. From left to right the elds always include
the time, date, Input Name, status and CSV Input Number. The input status is always listed as either ON or
OFF. If the record is from a Timer Input a sixth eld lists the measured time.
By convention, CSVs that contain a comma character will be enclosed by a pair of quotation marks. A
name that contains a quotation mark will be indicated by an additional quotation mark.
46 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 4 – op erati on Ca ptUri ng eVen t reC or DS to a pC fiLe
CSV inpUt nUMberS
The Input Number listed in a CSV record does not include the normal single‑letter prex (i.e., D, A, V, T
and S). Instead they are assigned purely numerical values in sequential order. Table 8 on page 47 cross
references Input Numbers and CSV inputs. The S‑prex is used to refer to System Events. They are de‑
scribed in the section entitled “System Events” on page 79.
EventRecordCategory InputNumber CSVInput
Digital D1 ‑ D999 1 ‑ 999
Analog A1 ‑ A4 1000 ‑1003
Virtual V1 ‑ V8 1004 ‑ 1011
Timer T1 ‑ T16 1012 ‑ 1027
System Power S1 1028
High Temperature S2 1029
Low Temperature S3 1030
SNTP Clock Sync S4 1031
GPS Clock Sync ‑ correction > 5 seconds S5 1032
GPS Clock Sync ‑ periodic interval S6 1033
Table 8: CSV Input Numbers
CaptUring eVent reCorDS to a pC fiLe
The Query (with the Report Type set to Dump or Comma) and View commands will automatically stream
Event Records to the active user port. A PC running HyperTerminal can be used to capture these records
as a text le. The .txt le that is created can then be read using any commonly available word process‑
ing application (e.g., Notepad
are listed in the following. HyperTerminal and Windows 7
versions of these programs may be slightly different. However, the fundamental approach will remain
valid.
®
or Word®). The steps necessary to capture the Event Records as a .txt le
®
were used in the following procedure. Later
4
1. Congure the various elds of the Query or View command as desired.
Perform steps 2 through 5 IMMEDIATELY BEFORE pressing the F1 function key.
2. With the mouse, click on the Transfers command, then the Capture Text... command. The Capture
Text dialog box will open.
3. Click the Browse button. The Select Capture File dialog box will be displayed.
4. Navigate to or create the desired folder that will contain the .txt le. Enter a lename (e.g., 02‑20‑14
0915AM). The three‑character .txt le extension will be appended automatically. Click the Save but‑
ton. The user will be returned to the Capture Text dialog box.
5. Verify that the le specication box lists the correct folder and lename. Click the Start button to
open the .txt le.
6. Press the F1 function key to initiate the data transfer. The logger will proceed to stream Event Records
to the newly created .txt le.
7. In the case of the Query command the record stream will cease automatically when the last record
is displayed. A record count and checksum will note the end of the data. Refer to the sample data
entitled “Record Count and Checksum” on page 41. In the case of the View command the record
stream will cease only when the user presses the Esc key.
8. With the mouse, click on the Transfers command, then the Capture Text... command. Click the Stop
option that is displayed.
47Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
The .txt le is now closed and available for viewing. To read the le, navigate to the folder. With the
mouse, double‑click the lename (e.g., 03‑14‑13 0915AM.txt). The le will open in the default word pro‑
cessing application.
This concludes the chapter on how to operate the VDL from the four peripheral ports. Terminate the cur‑
rent session by using the Log Off command. Refer to the section entitled “Log Off (X)” on page 36.
The next chapter describes the use of the USB Host Port, front panel keypad and LCD.
4
48 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 5 – front paneL operation
introDUCtion
The VDL S7‑300 is designed to provide its user with the greatest degree of versatility and functionality.
All MICRO‑AIDE Event Recorders and Data Loggers come equipped with a front panel mounted Liquid
Crystal Display (LCD) and keypad. Together these features allow the user to perform all of the setup and
operational procedures required to effectively use the device. The advantage to the user is that a PC,
although helpful, is not required to operate the logger.
Setup and operation of the VDL from the front panel is somewhat different than operation via a PC. The
tasks to be performed and the end results are identical but the methods employed are different. This
chapter describes the methods that are unique to front panel operation. Figure 1 on page 8 provides
an illustration of the LCD panel and keypad.
front paneL DeSCription
USb hoSt port
The front panel of the VDL includes a USB Type‑A female connector. The connector is labeled “Save ‑ USB
Flash Drive”. It is also illustrated in Figure 1 on page 8. Any USB ash drive can be connected to the
port. Once connected, the ash drive can be used to save copies of selected Event Records. The proce‑
dure for doing so is described in “How to Use the USB Host Port” on page 50. The saved record les can
then be read using any word processing application. Table 14 on page 87 lists the bit transfer rates of
each user‑accessible port including the USB Host Port.
5
LiqUiD CryStaL DiSpLay
The LCD panel consists of a display approximately 3″ by 1″ in size. It is congured to present four lines
of data. Each line can contain twenty alphanumeric characters and symbols. The LCD characters are
large and can be viewed easily from several feet away. The super‑twist design of the LCD panel provides
a viewing angle of ±20º from the level of the display. The contrast level of the display may be adjusted.
This can be helpful when the logger is exposed to very hot or cold temperatures. The single‑turn potenti‑
ometer that controls the contrast level is accessible through a small hole in the front panel of the logger.
It is labeled “Adj”. Use a small at‑head screwdriver to adjust the setting.
KeypaD
The keypad contains twenty individual keys. Each key consists of a pushbutton switch. They are clearly
labeled as to their various functions. The keys are spaced .65″ apart to minimize double hits. A special
editing technique allows alphabetic characters to be entered via the keypad. The directional (, ,
, ) and Enter keys also provide for quick menu item selection. Except while selecting a command or
performing the special editing procedure, the left arrow key may be used to backspace over characters
when an incorrect number has been entered.
Unless otherwise stated, characters shown in italics are used to refer to specic keys on the keypad (e.g.,
Browse). This convention is used throughout the remainder of this chapter.
49Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
LeD inDiCatorS
The front panel of the VDL also includes three LED indicators. The LEDs are used to provide immediate
information about activity on various ports of the logger. The operation of each LED is described in the
following.
Power: The green LED illuminates when power is applied to the logger.
•
Terminal: The green LED ashes momentarily whenever data is being sent or received via the Terminal
•
Port.
Modem: The green LED ashes momentarily whenever data is being sent or received via the optional
•
modem.
hoW to USe the USb hoSt port
Every VDL is equipped with a USB Host Port designed for use with a FAT‑32 formatted ash drive. The port
can be used to save copies of selected Event Records to a compact, portable memory. Once saved,
the resultant text records can be read and reviewed on any PC. They can also be copied or moved to
a PC le on a hard drive. As a further convenience, MICRO‑AIDE’s GEA software can be used to view or
plot the records.
Saving records to a ash drive is completely non‑destructive to the original records. Records can be
saved as many times as desired by the user.
In the following illustrations the characters shown with a dark background indicate the initial position of
the highlight and therefore, the presently selected command or option.
5
Either of two simple procedures can be used to save Event Records to a ash drive. Typically only a few
front panel keystrokes are required. A PC is not required. Both procedures are described in the following.
Sa Ving eV en t reCorDS f ro M a CoM pL et e Day
1. Verify the USB ash drive is formatted FAT‑32, not NTFS.
2. Insert the USB ash drive into the connector of the USB Host Port.
3. Press the Save / . key. The following message will be displayed.
Save to flash drive:
Records for one day
Records for a range
Save Command
4. Press the Enter key after highlighting the Records for one day option.
5. A table of dates similar to the following will be displayed.
030313 030413 030513
030613 030713 030813
030913 031013
SaVing reCorDS to a fLaS h DriV e
At least one Event Record will be logged for each date listed. Dates are listed in the MMDDYY format.
The Event Records option may list as many as 128 dates. Only eight dates are listed in the example
50 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 5 – fr on t pan eL op er ation ho W to US e the USb ho St po rt
cited previously. The up and down arrow keys can be used to scroll quickly through a large collection
of dates.
6. Press the Enter key after highlighting a date. The following message will be displayed briey after the
delay required to create the text le.
Writing events.txt
Writing events.bin
Writing setupdata
Success!
7. Records from additional complete days can be saved by repeating this procedure starting at step 3.
8. Remove the ash drive from the USB Host Port after all the required records have been saved.
Sa Ving eV en t reCorDS f ro M a ran ge o f tiMeS a nD DateS
1. Verify the USB ash drive is formatted FAT‑32, not NTFS.
2. Insert the USB ash drive into the connector of the USB Host Port.
3. Press the Save / . key. The following message will be displayed.
Save to flash drive:
Records for one day
Records for a range
Save Command
4. Press the Enter key after highlighting the Records for a range option.
5. A table of dates similar to the following will be displayed. The dates represent the available start date
of the range.
030313 030413 030513
030613 030713 030813
030913 031013
At least one Event Record will be logged for each date listed. Dates are listed in the MMDDYY format.
The Event Records option may list as many as 128 dates. Only eight dates are listed in the example
cited previously. The up and down arrow keys can be used to scroll quickly through a large collection
of dates.
6. Press the Enter key after highlighting a date. The following message will be displayed.
Start time:
Enter=edit, Esc=OK
00:00:00
7. To accept the 00:00:00 midnight setting as the start time, press the Esc key. To modify the start
time move the highlight to the hours, minutes or seconds position. Press the Enter key. Press the
number keys as required to create a new value. The VDL utilizes a military‑style clock. Accordingly,
12:01:02 AM is dened as 00:01:02 and 12:59:58 PM is dened as 23:59:58. Leading zeros are not
required. To accept the new value, press the Esc key. Using the same technique, adjust the other
values as required. When the start time is correct, press the Esc key.
5
51Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
8. A table of dates similar to the following will be displayed. The dates represent the available end date
of the range.
030313 030413 030513
030613 030713 030813
030913 031013
9. Press the Enter key after highlighting a date. The following message will be displayed.
End time:
Enter=edit, Esc=OK
23:59:59
10. To accept the 23:59:59 setting as the end time, press the Esc key. To modify the end time use the
procedure described in step 6. When the end time is correct, press the Esc key.
11. The following message will be displayed briey after the delay required to create the text le.
Writing events.txt
Writing events.bin
Writing setupdata
Success!
12. Records from other times and dates can be saved by repeating this procedure starting at step 3.
5
13. Remove the ash drive from the USB Host Port after all the required records have been saved.
fiLeS Written to the fLaSh Dri Ve
The rst time Event Records are saved via the USB Host Port a folder is automatically written to the ash
drive. The name of the folder is taken from the rst twenty characters of the Unit Name. Certain restric‑
tions apply to the creation of the Unit Name. Refer to the section entitled “Unit Name” on page 20 for
additional details.
After the folder is created, three les are written within the folder. A description of each le is listed in the
following sections. All of the record les from a specic logger will be written to the same folder. Provided
the rst twenty characters of the assigned Unit Name are not changed, a new folder is never created
regardless of how many record les are saved from the logger.
eV entS te xt fiLe
The rst le written is the text version of the Event Records. The le is assigned a lename formatted as
follows: MM‑DD‑YY@hhmmss‑mmddyy.txt. As a text le, this le can be read by any word processing ap‑
plication (e.g., Notepad or Word). Table 9 on page 53 provides a complete description and example
of the lename format.
52 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 5 – fr on t pan eL op er ation ho W to US e the Keyp aD
TextandBinaryFilenameDefinition Description
MM‑DD‑YY The date of the rst record saved to the ash drive.
hhmmss The time the records were saved to the ash drive.
mmddyy The date the records were saved to the ash drive.
.txt Denotes the le as a text le readable by any word processor.
.bin Denotes the le as a binary le readable only by GEA.
Example:
03‑04‑13@120127‑033013.txt
The rst record is from 03‑04‑13. They were saved to the ash
drive at 12:01:27 pm on 03‑30‑13.
Table 9: Flash Drive Filenames
eV entS bi na ry fiLe
The selected Event Records are also written to the ash drive as a highly compressed binary le. The
lename is formatted similarly to the text le; however, the le extension is changed to .bin. The binary
version of the record le is used exclusively by GEA for viewing and plotting of the Event Records.
Se tUp Dat ab aS e binar y fiLe
In order for GEA to view and plot the saved records a copy of the logger’s Setup Database must be
available. The logger’s database le is always named setupdata.bin. This le is automatically overwritten
each time a record le is written to the ash drive.
hoW to USe the Key paD
After power is applied, the VDL will perform a rmware boot‑up procedure. The LCD will remain blank
for 10 to 15 seconds while the logger is booting. The following message will be briey displayed at the
completion of the boot‑up procedure.
The reference to rmware version 1.13 may vary. The rmware version number should be recorded and
saved in the event service ever needs to be performed on the unit. After the boot‑up procedure is
completed the logger will automatically enter Idle Mode. There are three operational modes, each is
described in the following sections.
iDLe MoDe
Except as noted in the following, the real‑time clock and Unit Name are displayed during Idle Mode. It
is the at rest condition of the logger. An example of the real‑time clock display is shown in the following.
The rst twenty characters of the Unit Name are listed in the fourth row. Refer to the section entitled “Unit
Name” on page 20 for additional information.
Throughout the remainder of this chapter, the characters shown with a dark background indicate the
initial position of the highlight and therefore, the presently selected command or option.
MICRO-AIDE
Model VDL
Data Logger
S7-300 Version 1.13
5
TIME DATE
16:35:52* 02-20-14
S7-300 Data Logger
COVINA_ARROWGRAND9.7
LCD During Idle Mode
53Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
The VDL utilizes the 24‑hour, military time convention (e.g., 7:00 PM is shown as 19:00:00). The date and
time display is altered once every minute for ve seconds. Alternating messages referring to the Setup
and Browse Modes are displayed during this period.
An asterisk (*) to the right of the displayed time indicates that the optional GPS Receiver is locked onto a
veried GPS signal.
The real‑time clock display is also interrupted in Idle Mode when new Event Records are logged. Each
new event will be displayed only briey. This process is useful in verifying that the logger is continuing to
detect events. The Event Record format used by the LCD is described in the following section.
eV ent reC or D forMat
Event Records consist of four lines of text. Sample records for several input types are shown in the follow‑
ing.
08:05:55.2 03-14-13
D006 1x....x....
Gate Up Ind
GateUp On
LCD Event Record ‑ Digital Input
09:47:56.7 03-14-13
A01 10.1Vdc x...
BatteryBank1
BB1 Batt1BAD
LCD Event Record ‑ Analog Input
5
19:55:44.7 03-14-13
V02 1.x......
Virtual Gate Up
VGateUp On
LCD Event Record ‑ Virtual Input
20:01:17.7 03-14-13
T16 15.9s
Switch_Delay_R127
R127-3 Violate
LCD Event Record ‑ Timer Input
The rst line of text always species the time and date the event was logged to memory. The date is
listed in MM‑DD‑YY format.
The second line of text lists the Input Number. It is generally followed by a sequence of x and . (period)
characters. An x indicates an input with an active or On Event state. A . (period) indicates an input with
an inactive or Off Event state. In the case of Analog Inputs the state indicators are preceded by the
measured Analog Input level (e.g., 10.1 Vdc in the second sample record). In the case of Digital Input
records all 999 Digital Input states cannot be depicted in the second line of text. Only a group of ten
are shown. The number that precedes the state eld is the Input Number of the rst state indicator. For
Analog Inputs the state indicators, from left to right, pertain to A1 through A4. The Measured Time value is
listed in the case of Timer Input records.
The third line always lists the twenty characters of the assigned Input Name (e.g., Gate Up Ind in the rst
sample record).
54 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 5 – fr on t pan eL op er ation ho W to US e the Keyp aD
Finally, the eight characters of the assigned Input Identier and Event Name are listed in the
fourth line from left to right, respectively. Input Identiers and Event Names are described in “Input
Names / Identiers (I)” on page 28 and “Event Names (E)” on page 28, respectively.
broWSe MoDe
Browse Mode is most commonly used to view Event Records via the LCD panel. Event Records may
be viewed in either forward or reverse chronological order. Events are selected by date and time and
optionally by Input Number. However, an additional feature allows the user to inspect the current status
of an input.
To access any of the Browse options press the Browse key. The following message will appear.
Browse:
Event Records
Input Status
Browse Command
Both options are described in the sections that follow.
eV ent reC or DS
After selecting the Event Records option a table of dates similar to the following will be displayed.
030313 030413 030513
030613 030713 030813
030913 031013
Browse Command ‑ Event Records Option
At least one Event Record will be logged for each date listed. Dates are listed in the MMDDYY format.
The Event Records option may list as many as 128 dates. Only eight dates are listed in the example cited
previously. The up and down arrow keys can be used to scroll quickly through a large collection of dates.
Press the Enter key after highlighting a date. The display will then specify a start time as shown in the fol‑
lowing.
Browse Start Time:
Enter=edit, Esc=OK
00:00:00
Press the Esc key if records starting from midnight are to be inspected. To inspect records starting later in
the day perform the following steps.
1. Using the left and right arrow keys position the highlight in the hour, minute or second eld.
2. Press the Enter key to select the highlighted eld.
3. Enter the required hours, minutes or seconds by pressing the appropriate numeric keys. Leading zeros
are not required.
5
4. Press the Enter key to complete the entry.
5. Repeat the previous steps to adjust the remaining elds.
After the correct starting time is specied the Esc key should be pressed. The following message describ‑
ing the use of the arrow keys will be briey displayed.
55Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Use ←→↑↓ to scroll,
Browse to select
input to query
Provided the Browse key has not been pressed, the rst Event Record meeting the specied date and
time criteria will be displayed. Refer to the section entitled “Event Record Format” on page 54. The left
and right arrow keys can be used to review Event Records in forward or reverse chronological order.
Holding down an arrow key allows the user to search through the record set very quickly.
The limits of the record set will be indicated by a message stating either Start of Data or End of Data. To
exit Browse Mode and return to Idle Mode press the Esc key.
Press the Browse key any time after the start time is specied to inspect records for a particular input. This
procedure is referred to as Query by Input Number.
qU ery b y inpUt nUMb er
To inspect Event Records for a specic input press the Browse key after the starting time is specied. The
following message will be displayed.
Input to query,
(--- selects all)
---
5
A ashing highlight will be positioned in the Input Number eld located in the third row of text. To specify
an input follow the steps listed in the following.
1. Press the Alpha key repeatedly until the desired input type (i.e., D, A, V, T or S) is displayed.
2. Press the appropriate number keys to enter the Input Number. Leading zeros are not required.
3. Press the Enter key to display the rst Event Record satisfying the date, time and Input Number crite‑
ria. Several seconds may be required to locate the rst record.
4. Use the arrow keys to inspect additional records for the specied input.
The Browse key can be pressed again at any time if a different input is to be inspected. Press the Esc key
to exit the Query by Input Number procedure and return to Idle Mode.
The VDL will log an Event Record to memory when the power is turned off as well as on. Additionally, a
record will be logged if the measured temperature is outside the Temp Limits assigned by the user. These
records are referred to as System Records and are associated with S‑type inputs. Refer to the section
entitled “System Events” on page 79 for additional details.
in pUt Sta tU S
The Input Status option allows the user to inspect the current state of each input. The status of Digital,
Analog and Virtual Inputs is indicated by their assigned Event Names. Voltage measurements are report‑
ed for Analog Inputs. The Input Status feature can be of great use when setting up the logger. Without a
peripheral device the user can verify that inputs are assigned proper Input Identiers and Event Names.
Each input can be checked to verify that it will report a change of state. Additionally, the command
provides a DVM‑like function for each Analog Input.
After selecting the Input Status option the following message will be displayed briey.
56 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 5 – fr on t pan eL op er ation ho W to US e the Keyp aD
Use ←→↑↓ to scroll,
Browse=select input
Browse Command ‑ Input Status Option
The arrow keys can be used to scroll from one input to the next. Digital Inputs are followed by Analog
Inputs. They are followed by Virtual Inputs. Rather than use the arrow keys to scroll sequentially through
each input the user can jump to a specic input by pressing the Browse key. Select the input using the
procedure described in “Query by Input Number” on page 56.
Sample status data for each input type is listed in the following.
D006
Gate Up Ind
GateUp On
LCD Input Status ‑ Digital Input
A01
BatteryBank1
BB1 Batt1BAD
10.1Vdc
LCD Input Status ‑ Analog Input
The Input Number and Input Name are listed in the rst and second rows, respectively. The Input Identier
and Event Name are listed in the third row. The fourth row is used to report analog levels. The data listed
is updated automatically and in real‑time. Without the aid of a PC the user can check the sequence
of events at a crossing or while a control function is being exercised. Press the Esc key to exit the Input
Status feature and return to Idle Mode.
SetUp MoDe
Setup Mode allows the user to set up the VDL to a specic set of application requirements. The various
commands that can be executed from the keypad form a subset of those performed via a peripheral
device. Only a few commands are not applicable to the keypad (e.g., Transfer Files, Network). The results
from any keypad‑performed command are indistinguishable from those performed from a peripheral
device. Accordingly, the setup descriptions that are a part of Chapter 3 may be used to provide a
more detailed explanation of their keypad counterparts.
To enter Setup Mode from Idle Mode press the Setup key. The following message will be displayed. The
user must enter the correct Passcode before any setup command can be executed.
V01
Virtual Gate Up
VGateUp On
LCD Input Status ‑ Virtual Input
Enter the passcode:
5
Passcode Request
57Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
The factory default Passcode is 12345678.
Passcodes are assigned numeric values only. Press the Enter key to complete the entry. If the user fails to
enter the correct Passcode an error message will be displayed.
Assuming the correct Passcode is entered the following message will be briey displayed.
Use ←→↑↓ to select
items and then ENTER
The Setup Menu of front‑panel‑accessible commands will then be displayed as shown in the following.
Clock TimZone CSMode
UName ENames INames
Analog Virtual Timer
TLimits PCode Modem
LCD Setup Commands ‑ Screen 1
Moving the highlight beyond the limits of the rst menu will display the following additional commands.
Baud Diag Update
RESET
5
The Setup Menu consists of twenty commands. Table 10 on page 58 provides a brief explanation of
each command. To select a command advance the highlight to the desired command and press the
Enter key. The use of each command is explained in the nal sections of this chapter.
Name Description
Clock Set date and time
TimZone Select Time Zone and enable / disable Daylight Saving Time
CSMode Select Clock Sync Mode
UName Assign Unit Name
ENames Assign Event Name pairs
INames Assign Input Names, Identiers and Event Name pair number
Analog Congure Analog Inputs
Virtual Congure Virtual Inputs
Timer Congure Timer Inputs
TLimits Assign High and Low Temperature Limits
PCode Assign Passcode
Modem Assign Ring Count and Dial Numbers
Baud Select Terminal Port and Vital‑Processor Port Baud rates
Diag Perform system diagnostics
Update Update rmware from USB Host Port
RESET Erase all Event Records
Restore Setup Database to factory default values
LCD Setup Commands ‑ Screen 2
Table 10: List of LCD Setup Commands
58 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 5 – fr on t pan eL op er ation ho W to US e the Keyp aD
Before proceeding the user should note that several of the commands require alphabetic characters to
be used in the creation of a name or label (e.g., Input Name). The keypad, however, contains only nu‑
meric and function keys. A special Alphanumeric Editing Procedure which is a feature of all MICRO‑AIDE
Event Recorders and Data Loggers allows the user to create names and labels from an extensive set of
characters. This procedure is described in the following.
aL phanUMe ri C eDiting proCeDUre
The rst step in the Alphanumeric Editing Procedure is to select the parameter that is to be edited (e.g.,
Input Name or Input Identier). A ashing highlight is used to indicate a specic parameter. To select the
highlighted parameter press the Enter key. A blank eld of characters will be displayed. An underscore
(i.e., _) will be positioned in the rst character location. The underscore character is used as a cursor in
the Alphanumeric Editing Procedure. The left and right arrow keys can be used at any time to position
the cursor as required. To create an alphanumeric name perform the following steps.
1. Press the Alpha key. The following list of characters will be displayed.
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRST
UVWXYZ !"#$%&'()*+,/
abcdefghijklmnopqrst
uvwxyz:;<=>?@[]^_{|}
Alphanumeric Characters
2. Using the arrow keys reposition the highlight until the desired character is highlighted. A total of eighty
characters plus ten numbers are available for selection.
3. Press the Enter key to select the highlighted character. The selected character is placed into the
name at the present location of the cursor. The cursor is then automatically moved one position to
the right.
4. To enter a number into the name press the appropriate number key. To correct an error reposition the
cursor under the character in error and overwrite it with a new character. To insert a space, assuming
no characters have been inserted to the right, simply move the cursor to the right. The space charac‑
ters follow the upper‑case Z in the character set.
5. Repeat the previous steps until the name is completed.
6. Press the Enter key to accept the newly dened name. Alternatively, press the Esc key to retain the
previously assigned name or to start again by ignoring all of the character entries.
CL oCK
The Clock command is used to change the date or time. The time is always listed in 24‑hour, military‑style
format (e.g., 7:00 PM is listed as 19:00:00). In accordance with this convention the user must enter the
time by using the same format. The date is always listed in MM‑DD‑YY format as shown in the following.
Time: 16:07:09
MM-DD-YY
Date: 02-20-14
Thursday
Clock Command
To change the date or time position the highlight in one of the numeric elds. Press the Enter key. Enter
a valid one‑ or two‑digit number (leading zeros are not required). Press the Enter key to accept the new
value. Adjust the other elds as required. The day of week is automatically calculated by the VDL based
upon the day, month and year selected by the user.
5
Press the Esc key after the changes have been made. The following message will be displayed.
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Change the clock now
Yes No
To complete the command, select the desired option and then press the Enter key.
The clock of the VDL can be precisely synchronized using either of three different methods. The Clock
Sync Mode can be set to SNTP or GPS. The logger supports SNTP‑Unicast and SNTP‑Multicast time syncing.
Refer to the section entitled “CSMode” on page 60. If the clock cannot be synchronized MICRO‑AIDE
recommends that the clock be manually set once per month.
ti MZone
The TimZone command is used to assign the Time Zone and control the Daylight Saving Time (DST) setting.
A message similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the TimZone command.
TimZone:PST (UTC-8)
Daylight Saving Time
Enabled
Time Zone Command
The highlight will initially be placed in the TimZone eld (e.g., PST (UTC‑8) in the example cited previously).
To select a new Time Zone setting press the Enter key repeatedly until the correct setting is displayed.
There are seven Time Zone settings. They are listed in Table 4 on page 24.
5
To enable or disable the automatic adjustment for DST, position the highlight in the third row. Press the
Enter key to change the current setting.
Press the Esc key to accept the current settings and complete the command.
CSMoDe
Three different methods can be used to synchronize the logger’s real‑time clock. The Clock Sync Mode
command allows the user to select either SNTP or GPS. The following message will be displayed after
selecting the CSMode command.
Clock Sync Mode:
None
SNTP
GPS
Clock Sync Mode Command
Listed in the following are usage instructions regarding the three methods that can be used to synchro‑
nize the logger’s clock.
None – The real‑time clock is not synchronized.
SNTP‑Unicast – The Clock Sync Mode must be set to SNTP. A time server on the LAN must be accessible
to the logger via its Ethernet Port. The time server must support SNTP‑Unicast. The SNTP Server parameter
must be set to the IP address of the time server. The SNTP Server IP address is assigned by the System
Parameters command. Refer to the section entitled “SNTP Server” on page 23 for additional details.
SNTP‑Multicast – The Clock Sync Mode must be set to SNTP. A time server on the LAN must be accessible
to the logger via its Ethernet Port. The time server must be enabled for SNTP‑Multicast operation. The SNTP
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Server parameter must be set to 0.0.0.0. The SNTP Server IP address is assigned by the System Parameters
command. Refer to the section entitled “SNTP Server” on page 23 for additional details.
GPS – The optional GPS Receiver must be installed and it must acquire a valid GPS signal. Provided these
conditions are met, the GPS signal becomes the synchronizing source. Once an hour the clock is syn‑
chronized.
Setting the SNTP Server IP address to 0.0.0.0 automatically disables Unicast operation in favor of Multicast.
Conversely, a non‑zero IP address disables Multicast operation in favor of Unicast. However, for proper
operation all of the other conditions described previously must be met.
UnaMe
The UName command is used to assign a unique name to each Data Logger. The rst twenty characters
of the Unit Name must be assigned in accordance with various rules. These are described in the section
entitled “Unit Name” on page 20. A message similar to the following will be displayed after selecting
the UName command.
Unit name:
***** NOT SET *****
Unit Name Command
The rst twenty characters of the existing Unit Name are displayed in the second line of text. The default
Unit Name is displayed in the sample data cited previously. To change the name press the Enter key.
Assign a new name or modify the existing name by using the “Alphanumeric Editing Procedure” on page
59. Press the Esc key to complete the command.
Due to restrictions in the size of the LCD panel the UName command can be used to assign a Unit Name
limited in length to twenty characters. Lengthier Unit Names (up to eighty characters) must be assigned
by using the System Parameters command.
enaMeS
Event Names are created by the user to uniquely identify Event Records. By way of example, the state
of an input can be labeled as “Up” or “Down” or “GateUp” or “GateDwn”. Event Names add clarity to
Event Records that would otherwise not be possible if input states were only labeled as “On” or “Off”.
Event Names are always assigned in pairs to identify the active and inactive state of an input. As many
as twenty Event Name pairs can be assigned. Refer to the section entitled “Event Names (E)” on page
28 for additional details.
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the ENames command.
Event ON OFF
01 On Off
02 On Off
03 Up Down
Event Names Command
5
Three Event Name pairs are displayed at one time. The number (i.e., 1 to 20) of the pair is listed at the
start of each row. It is followed by the currently assigned active or On Event Name (e.g., Up) and the ex‑
isting inactive or Off Event Name (e.g., Down). To create a new name or modify an existing name select
the Event Name pair by pressing the up or down arrow keys to advance through the list of twenty pairs.
Use the left and right arrow keys to select either the on or off eld. Press the Enter key. A blank eld with a
cursor in the left‑most position will be displayed. Use the “Alphanumeric Editing Procedure” on page 59
to create a new name. Use the same procedure to modify additional names.
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After all of the Event Name pairs are dened press the Esc key to complete the command.
inaMeS
The INames command is a multi‑purpose command that allows the user to assign Input Identiers, Input
Names and Event Name pairs to each input of the logger. Input Identiers and Input Names allow the
user to interpret Event Records more precisely by referring to inputs with labels that are unambiguous
(e.g., Track_Switch_Control vs. Digital Input 20). Refer to the section entitled “Input Names / Identiers (I)”
on page 28 for additional details.
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the INames command. In all cases default
values are assigned.
D001 ID: DInpu001
Digital Input 001
Event ON/OFF pair:
01 On Off
Input Names Command
The Input Number is always displayed in the upper left‑most corner. To select a different input press
the up or down arrow keys repeatedly. Alternatively, press the Browse key to jump to a different input.
Press the Alpha key repeatedly until the desired input type is displayed (i.e., D, A, V or T). Enter an Input
Number by pressing the appropriate number keys. Leading zeros are not required. Press the Enter key to
jump directly to the selected input.
The eld labeled “ID” will initially be highlighted. Move the highlight to the second row to select the
Input Name. Press the Enter key to modify the highlighted assignment. A blank eld with a cursor in the
left‑most position will be displayed. Use the “Alphanumeric Editing Procedure” on page 59 to create a
new Input Identier or Input Name.
5
To assign an Event Name pair to a specic Input Number move the highlight to the fourth row. Press the
Enter key repeatedly until the desired Event Name pair (i.e., 1 to 20) is displayed. Each time the Enter
key is pressed the fourth line of text will be automatically updated to reect the contents of the selected
Event Name pair. Pressing the Enter key while pair number twenty is displayed will return the user to pair
number one. After all of the names and pairs are assigned press the Esc key to complete the command.
In the following example the Input Name and Identier have been assigned as NS_Gate_Down_Relay
and GateDwn, respectively. Event Name pair number 3 states that an Event Name of Up will indicate an
On Event. An Event Name of Down will indicate an Off Event.
D001 ID: GateDwn
NS_Gate_Down_Relay
Event ON/OFF pair:
03 Up Down
Input Name Command ‑ Example
an aLog
The Analog command is used to congure the four Analog Inputs of the VDL. Each Analog Input can be
used to monitor AC or DC voltages. Like a DVM, the VDL can report its measurements using several dif‑
ferent scales and resolutions. Analog Inputs that vary beyond an acceptable range of operation can be
reported by setting appropriate Limit Values. Refer to the section entitled “High and Low Limits” on page
25 for additional details.
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the Analog command.
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A01 Range:+/-25.5Vdc
Filter: Slow
High Limit: 25.5
Low Limit: -25.5
Analog Command
The Analog Input number is displayed in the upper left‑hand corner. To select a different Analog Input
press the up or down arrow keys repeatedly. Alternatively, press the Browse key to jump to a different in‑
put. Specify the Input Number by pressing the appropriate numeric keys. Leading zeros are not required.
Press the Enter key to jump directly to the selected input. The rst row also indicates the Range setting.
The Filter setting and High and Low Limit Values are listed in the remaining rows.
To change the Range setting, highlight the existing setting and press the Enter key until the desired
Range is displayed. The sequence of possible Range settings is ±25.5 Vdc, +51.1 Vdc, ±255 Vdc, 25.5 Vac,
255 Vac, ±25.5 Adc and 25.5 Aac.
The Filter setting controls the amount of smoothing the measured signal is subjected to. AC signals require
the Slow setting to remove their ripple content. DC signals can generally use either the Slow or Fast set‑
ting. To toggle the existing setting simply press the Enter key.
All AC voltage and current measurements are reported in RMS units.
The Limit Values can be set separately. They cannot exceed the bounds of the Range setting. To change
an existing setting highlight the value and press Enter. Use the number keys to enter the new value. Enter
fractional and negative values by using the decimal and minus keys, respectively.
After the new settings have been assigned press the Esc key to complete the command.
Vi rtUaL
Virtual Inputs allow the VDL to identify and report a variety of signal conditions that may be of interest to
the user. These conditions may refer to anomalies in the state of bit controlled relay circuits. High or low
analog levels may also be of special concern to the user. The eight Virtual Inputs of the VDL are cong‑
ured by use of the Virtual command. Refer to the section entitled “Virtual Inputs (V)” on page 29 for
additional information.
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the Virtual command.
V01 (SETUP=function)
--- --- --- ---
Relay: No
Dial Out: No
Virtual Command
In the sample data cited previously, Virtual Input number 1 has not been assigned. It retains its default
settings. The Virtual Input number is displayed in the upper left‑most corner. To select a different Virtual
Input press the up or down arrow keys repeatedly. Alternatively, press the Browse key to jump to a dif‑
ferent input. Specify the Input Number by pressing the appropriate numeric keys. Leading zeros are not
required. Press the Enter key to jump directly to the selected input.
The second line of text includes four place holders for variables. Variables are Digital, Analog, other
Virtual or Timer Inputs. The procedure for assigning variables is described in the following.
5
Each Virtual Input can selectively operate the internal relay of the VDL. Press the Enter key to toggle the
existing Relay setting from No to Yes or vice versa. Virtual Input records can be transmitted to a remote
maintenance facility provided the VDL is equipped with an internal modem. Press the Enter key to
toggle the existing Dial Out setting.
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aS Signi ng Vari ab LeS
A variable can be any valid Digital, Analog, other Virtual or Timer Input. To assign variables complete the
steps listed in the following.
1. Press the left and right arrow keys to locate the highlight in a place holder eld.
2. Press the Enter key.
3. Press the Alpha key until the desired input type designator appears (i.e., D, A, V or T).
4. Enter the desired Input Number by pressing the appropriate number keys.
5. Accept the new entry by pressing the Enter key.
6. Repeat the preceding steps if additional variables are required.
The nal step is to select the states that each variable assumes in dening a Virtual Input.
Se LeCti ng Stat eS
A Virtual Input can be thought of as a logical relationship shared by one to four inputs. Accordingly,
the state a Virtual Input assumes is dependent upon the state of each assigned variable. It follows that
a Virtual Input dependent upon one variable is dened by a combination of two states. Two variables
yield a combination of four states. Three variables yield eight states. Four variables yield sixteen states.
Selecting states involves the assignment of a Virtual Input state for each combination of variable states.
Press the Setup key after all of the variables have been assigned. Data similar to the following will be
displayed.
Virtual Output Funct
-----Inputs----- V03
5
D999 D007 A04 ---
Off Off Off Off 0
Virtual Command ‑ Assigning States
For the sample data cited previously, three of four possible variables have been assigned to Virtual Input
V3. The third line of text lists the assigned variables by Input Number. The fourth line of text lists a specic
combination of states for the assigned variables. The right‑most eld indicates the state the Virtual Input
assumes for the combination of variable states listed.
Variables (i.e., Digital, Analog, other Virtual and Timer Inputs) always assume either of two states. Each
state is described in the following.
On – The Digital Input is dened as a logical 1 by the S7‑300. The Analog Input level is outside its accept‑
able range as dened by its assigned Limit Values. Refer to Figure 3 on page 26. The Virtual Input
evaluates to a true logic state. The Timer Input has measured a delay that is less than its assigned Low
Limit Value or greater than its assigned High Limit Value.
Off – The Digital Input is dened as a logical 0 by the S7‑300. The Analog Input level is within its accept‑
able range as dened by its assigned Limit Values. The Virtual Input evaluates to a false logic state. The
Timer Input has measured a delay that is within the range of its assigned Limit Values.
The Virtual Input will assume the state dened by the setting in the lower right‑hand corner. Press the
Enter key to toggle the state of the Virtual Input from 0 to 1 (i.e., Off to On, respectively) or vice versa.
This setting will apply only to the combination of variable states displayed in the fourth line. Press the
down arrow key to dene the Virtual Input state for the next combination of variables.
Listed in the following are the eight variable state combinations associated with the Virtual Input de‑
scribed previously. Each combination can be selected in the sequence listed by pressing the up or down
arrow keys.
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D999 D007 A04 V03
Off Off Off Off
On Off Off Off
Off On Off Off
On On Off Off
Off Off On Off
On Off On Off
Off On On Off
On On On Off
In the sample data cited previously, the state of the Virtual Input is set in all cases to its initial value of Off.
Change the state of the Virtual Input as required by the remaining variable states. Press the Esc key to
accept the new settings and complete the command.
ti Mer
The VDL is equipped with sixteen general purpose Timer Inputs. Refer to the section entitled “Timer Inputs
(W)” on page 26 for additional information. To congure a Timer Input via the front panel select the
Timer LCD command. Data similar to the following will be displayed.
T01 Frm:--- Evt:Off
To:--- Evt:Off
LowLim: 0.0
HighLim: 0.0
Timer Command
The presently selected Timer Input is always displayed in the upper‑left corner (e.g., T01). To change the
input press the up or down arrow keys repeatedly. Alternatively, jump to a specic input by pressing the
Browse key and then the appropriate number keys. Complete the entry by pressing the Enter key.
To select the From and To Inputs move the highlight to the appropriate eld and press the Enter key.
Press the Alpha key repeatedly until the desired input type designator appears (i.e., D, A, V or T). Press the
appropriate number keys. Complete the entry by pressing the Enter key.
Timer Inputs can be assigned as the From Input. This allows a Timer Input to trigger another Timer Input.
However, a Timer Input cannot be assigned as the To Input.
Select the desired event setting by moving the highlight to the correct eld and then pressing the Enter
key. The current setting will be toggled between On and Off. Assign the High and Low Limit Values by
locating the highlight as needed and pressing the Enter key. Press the appropriate number and/or deci‑
mal keys to assign a value. Complete the entry by pressing the Enter key.
The Limit Values can be assigned in the range from 0.0 to 999.9 seconds.
Select another Timer Input and repeat the preceding steps as necessary. After all of the required Timer
Inputs are congured terminate the command by pressing the Esc key.
tLiMitS
The TLimits command allows the user to assign a High and Low Limit against which the internal tem‑
perature of the logger is compared. If the temperature is found to be outside the acceptable limits of
operation, a System Event Record will be logged to memory. A second record will be logged when the
temperature recovers to a normal level.
5
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the TLimits command.
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Temperature Limits:
High Limit: 257
Low Limit: -67
Temperature Limits Command
The default Limit Values are listed in the sample data. To change a Limit Value move the highlight to the
appropriate eld and press the Enter key. Enter a number using the number keys. Negative values can
be entered. Accept the new value by pressing the Enter key.
The internal temperature and Limit Values are reported in degrees Fahrenheit.
pCoDe
The Passcode feature prevents unauthorized users from altering the Setup Database via the front panel.
Passcodes can contain any combination of numeric values not exceeding eight total. A message similar
to the following will be displayed after selecting the PCode command.
Passcode: 12345678
Passcode Command
In the sample data cited previously the Passcode is set to its default value. To change the Passcode
press the Enter key. A blank eld with the cursor in the left‑most position will be displayed. Assign a new
5
Passcode by pressing the appropriate number keys. To assign a null Passcode press the Enter key in‑
stead. This will effectively disable the Passcode protection feature. Access to the logger will be permitted
by simply pressing the Enter key when the request for Passcode message is displayed.
Accept the new Passcode by pressing Enter. Press the Esc key to complete the command.
If the user forgets the assigned Passcode the System Parameters command should be executed. It will
display the current Passcode assignment. Refer to the section entitled “Passcode” on page 22.
Mo DeM
The VDL can be equipped with an optional, internal 33,600 Baud modem. The modem option allows
remote users to access the logger. Additionally, the modem’s dial‑out feature allows Event Records from
Virtual Inputs to be transmitted to a remote maintenance center.
There are three parameters that control the operation of the modem. The Ring Count determines the
number of rings that must occur prior to the modem answering an incoming call. The Primary and
Secondary Dial Numbers identify the number to dial when attempting to transmit a Virtual Input record.
Refer to the section entitled “Primary and Secondary Dial Numbers” on page 22 for additional informa‑
tion regarding these parameters.
Data similar to the following will be displayed after selecting the Modem command.
Modem ring count: 2
Prim/Sec Dial Number
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To change the Ring Count setting move the highlight to the appropriate eld and press the Enter key.
Enter a number in the range from 0 to 99. Accept the new value by pressing the Enter key.
A Ring Count setting of zero will prevent the modem from answering incoming calls.
To assign a Primary or Secondary Dial Number move the highlight to the third or fourth row, respectively.
The existing assignment will be highlighted. Press the Enter key. A blank eld with the cursor in the left‑
most position will be displayed. Enter a valid dial number by pressing the appropriate number keys. The
“Alphanumeric Editing Procedure” on page 59 can be used to insert non‑numeric characters such as
a comma to insert a two‑second pause. Press the Enter key to accept the new assignment. Complete
the command by pressing the Esc key.
ba UD
The Baud rate of the Terminal and Vital‑Processor Ports can be changed by using the Baud command.
The following menu is displayed after selecting the command.
Select port:
Terminal Port
V-P Port
Baud Command
To select the desired port move the highlight and press the Enter key. The following array of Baud rates
will be displayed irrespective of the selected port.
Term baud rate: 300
600 1200 2400
4800 9600 19200
38400 57600 115200
List of Terminal and V‑P Port Baud Rates
It is likely that the 38400 and 9600 settings will be highlighted as they are the default Baud rates for the
Terminal and V‑P Ports, respectively. To assign a new Baud rate move the highlight to the desired setting
by pressing the arrow keys. Press the Enter key to accept the new selection. The Baud rate of the periph‑
eral device attached to the Terminal and / or V‑P Ports must be changed to match the new setting.
It is strongly recommended that the Baud rate of the Siemens S7‑300 serial comm port be left at 9600.
Slower rates may introduce slight delays in the time stamping of events. Higher rates may place an un‑
necessary processing load on the system.
Di ag
The Diag command can be used to test seven critical logger functions. Included are tests of the pro‑
gram memory, Event Record memory, internal relay, internal temperature and optional Ethernet Port,
GPS Receiver and internal modem. Each test can be performed at any time and is completely non‑de‑
structive. The contents of the Setup Database and Event Record memories will remain unmodied.
The following data will be displayed after selecting the Diag command.
Select test: ProgMem
FlashMem GPS Rcvr
Ethernet Modem
Relay Temperature
Diagnostics Command
5
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The highlight will initially be positioned over the ProgMem eld. To select a different test, position the
highlight in the desired eld. Press the Enter key to perform the test. Each test is described in the sections
that follow.
pr ogMeM
A checksum of the entire program memory will be calculated and displayed after a few seconds. The
following example shows the results of a typical ProgMem test.
Program Memory
Checksum=19bb (GOOD)
Hit any key...
Program Memory Test
The labels GOOD or BAD will indicate the success of the test.
The reported checksum value will vary depending upon the version of the installed rmware.
fL aShMe M
The results of a typical FlashMem test are listed in the following.
Flash Memory:
4096K
Hit any key...
Flash Memory Test
5
The test veries that the microprocessor can properly access the Event Record memory. The reference
to 4096K (or optionally 8192K or 16384K) indicates the size in bytes of the memory device. A value of 0K
indicates that a failure has been detected.
gpS rCV r
The GPS Rcvr test will check for the presence and operability of the optional GPS Receiver. A typical test
result is displayed in the following.
GPS Rcvr Test: Okay
17:14:42.087 Valid
34.1043,-117.8784
Hit any key...
GPS Receiver Test
At the end of the rst line either Okay or NONE will be reported. Okay indicates that the GPS Receiver is
installed and the microprocessor is communicating with the receiver. NONE indicates that the receiver is
either not installed or has experienced a severe failure.
At the end of the second line either Valid or Invalid will be reported. Valid indicates that the GPS
Receiver has achieved a signal lock with at least one satellite and that an accurate UTC‑0 time is being
reported. Invalid indicates that a satellite lock has not been achieved.
The third line will list the latitude and longitude coordinates if they are available. In order to report
latitude and longitude the GPS Receiver must achieve a signal lock with a minimum of four satellites.
Depending upon the location of the GPS antenna this may not be possible. In such cases coordinates of
0.0000,0.0000 will be listed.
Irrespective of the reported latitude and longitude coordinates, if the test reports Valid the GPS Receiver
option is reporting accurate date and time data.
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et herne t
The Ethernet test will verify that the microprocessor is able to communicate with the optional Ethernet
Port. A typical test result is displayed in the following.
Ethernet Test: Okay
Hit any key...
Ethernet Test
If the logger’s microprocessor is able to communicate with the Ethernet Port, Okay will be reported.
Otherwise, NONE will be reported.
The Ethernet test does not test for LAN communications. For this reason, MICRO‑AIDE recommends that a
ping test also be performed.
Mo DeM
Either of two results should normally be expected from the Modem test. The following response veries
that the optional modem is installed and that the microprocessor is able to communicate with the mo‑
dem. A typical test takes a few seconds for the microprocessor to complete.
Modem Test...
Modem found:C
Hit any key...
Modem Test
The C reference listed previously indicates that the VDL is equipped with a 33,600 Baud Silicon Labs mo‑
dem. A “NONE” reference indicates that a modem is not installed or it has failed.
re Lay
The following message will be displayed after the Relay test is selected.
Relay: 1=ON, 2=OFF
Press ESC to exit
Relay Test
Press the 1 key to energize the selected relay. Press the 2 key to un‑energize the relay. The relay and any
circuitry attached to the relay contacts will be tested. Press the Esc key to complete the test. The relay
will immediately reassume its previous state when the Esc key is pressed. Press any key to exit the test.
te Mpera tU re
The Temperature test reports the temperature inside the logger. A typical response follows.
Temp 88 Degrees F
5
The temperature is always reported in degrees Fahrenheit.
Hit any key...
Temperature Test
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The temperature reading should never exceed 180 ºF. The temperature inside the logger will generally be
about 5 ºF to 10 ºF warmer than the surrounding ambient temperature.
The user may wish to contact MICRO‑AIDE customer service if a failure occurs as the result of any diag‑
nostic testing. Instructions on how to proceed will be offered. “Material Return” and “Limited Warranty”
policies are described on the inside back cover of this manual.
Up Date
The USB Host Port can be used to save a copy of selected Event Records in an easy‑to‑read text format.
Refer to the section entitled “Saving Records to a Flash Drive” on page 50. The port can also be used
to update the rmware used by the VDL. MICRO‑AIDE will periodically make available to its customers
new rmware that either expands or improves upon the capabilities of its products. The new rmware will
be available for downloading from our website. Visit: http://micro‑aide.com/support/downloads.htm.
Once the appropriate rmware le is downloaded and unzipped it will yield a .hex le. This le can be
saved to a ash drive and then later used to update the logger’s rmware.
The USB Host Port cannot be used with NTFS formatted ash drives.
The USB Host Port operates in strict accordance with various Microsoft standards that apply to lenames
and folders. Accordingly, the .hex le name must not be altered to include several illegal characters.
All .hex les downloaded from the MICRO‑AIDE website are, after they are unzipped, guaranteed to be
compliant with applicable Microsoft and USB Host Port standards.
Occasionally a new rmware release will be incompatible with the logger’s existing Setup Database.
When this happens the existing database will have to be erased and a new one created.
Incompatibilities, if any, are listed in Table 2 on page 4. It should always be reviewed before proceed‑
ing with an update.
5
To update the rmware follow the steps listed in the following.
1. Verify the USB ash drive is formatted FAT‑32, not NTFS.
1. Insert the ash drive into the USB Host Port.
2. Select the Update command. The following message will be displayed.
Update Firmware
From USB Flash Drive
Yes No
Update Command
3. Select the Yes option to proceed. The following message will be displayed.
Insert flash drive
with HEX file and
select OK
CANCEL OK
4. Select the OK option to proceed. Information similar to the following will be displayed.
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Select hex file:
VDL S7-300 V113.hex
CWR-24E V101.hex
CWR-72E V106.hex
File Selection
5. The Update command allows the user to select a le from a list of nine. The rst group of three are
depicted in the example. To navigate to the second or third group, press the up or down arrow keys.
6. Once the correct le is highlighted, select it by pressing the Enter key.
7. The LCD will indicate that the new rmware le is being transferred. A single‑line progress bar is used
to indicate transfer activity. After approximately 30 seconds the transfer will automatically terminate
and the following message will be displayed.
Updating Firmware...
Success!
Press any key...
Successful Update
8. Press the Esc key to proceed. Finally, the following message allows the user to run or ignore (refer to
closing note) the new rmware. Select the Yes option to execute the new rmware by restarting the
logger. The Update procedure has been completed.
Restart Recorder?
Yes No
Restart Option
At the completion of the transfer, the new rmware is saved in the non‑volatile memory of the logger.
However, the new rmware is not executed until such time as a restart is performed. A restart can also be
performed by simply cycling power to the logger.
reSet
The Reset command should be used with caution. It allows the user to selectively restore the entire Setup
Database to its factory default values or to clear the Event Record memory. Refer to the section entitled
“Reset System (R)” on page 18 for additional information.
The following message will be displayed after the Reset command is selected.
Select Item to Erase
Set Factory Defaults
Erase Event Memory
Reset Command
To restore the entire Setup Database to its default settings highlight the Set Factory Defaults eld and
press the Enter key. Select Yes to perform the reset or No to ignore the reset.
5
To completely erase all of the Event Records from the event memory highlight the Erase Event Memory
eld and press Enter. Select Yes to perform the reset or No to ignore the reset.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
It is important that the user not turn off power to the VDL for 60 seconds after initiating a reset of the Event
Record memory.
This concludes the chapter on how to operate the logger from the front panel. Since the setup of the
logger is critical to how the VDL will perform, it is advisable to review any changes that may have been
made to the Setup Database.
The next chapter describes general maintenance techniques that may benet the user in case a prob‑
lem symptom is ever encountered.
5
72 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Chapter 6 – MaintenanCe
introDUCtion
The primary purpose of this chapter is to describe the recommended trouble‑shooting methods to be
used with the VDL. It should be referred to if ever a questionable symptom arises during the operation of
the Data logger.
The VDL is designed to provide its user with many years of trouble‑free operation. There are no user
serviceable parts inside the unit. There are no consumable items or supplies that need to be replaced or
replenished. The user may occasionally need to wipe dust away from the external surfaces of the unit.
This should be done with a clean, dry cloth. The mechanical design of the chassis provides the internal
electronic assemblies with a nearly sealed environment. Due to the low power consumption of the unit
ventilation holes are not required. The inside of the logger should remain clean indenitely. Additionally,
MICRO‑AIDE printed circuit boards (PCBs) are sealed with a moisture and fungus resistant conformal
coating.
aDjUSting the LCD Contr aSt
The contrast level of the LCD panel may occasionally need to be adjusted to compensate for extreme
variations in ambient temperature or viewing angle. To change the contrast level simply adjust the po‑
tentiometer labeled “Adj”. It is accessible through a small hole in the front panel.
6
WorKing inSiDe the Data Logger
The user may have occasion to work inside the unit to add an optional equipment item. The following
sections describe tasks involving work that may be performed inside the logger. Observe the steps listed
in the following before attempting any task. Refer to Figure 1 on page 8 and Figure 2 on page 9.
They illustrate the front and top sides of the logger, respectively.
1. Remove power from the logger by detaching the connector labeled “Power” located along the top
side of the logger.
2. Remove the Analog and output Relay connectors and peripheral cables.
3. Remove the logger from the shelf or backboard.
4. Remove the four 6‑32 1/4″ screws from the top and bottom sides of the front assembly. The front and
back portions of the logger can then be completely separated.
The task can now be performed safely. After the work is completed reassemble the logger by reversing
the steps listed previously.
The Processor PCB is equipped with two potentiometers that are set and sealed at the factory. Do not
attempt to alter these settings. Electrostatic discharges can cause serious damage to electronic compo‑
nents. When handling circuitry inside the logger it is recommended that the user wear a wrist grounding
strap.
73Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
repLaCing the fUSeS
There are two fuses mounted on the Processor PCB. The fuses are designed to protect the input power
source and the contacts of the output relay. Each are rated at 1 A and conform to the 2AG size stan‑
dard. Before replacing a fuse the cause of the blown fuse should be ascertained and cleared if possible.
The fuses are illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
inStaLLing the optionaL gpS re Cei Ver
The VDL can be equipped with a GPS Receiver that is used to provide a 100% accurate, drift‑free clock.
Once installed and enabled the operation of the receiver is completely automatic. The GPS Receiver
option is comprised of a small L‑shaped PCB, plastic grommet and antenna.
Generally, the GPS Receiver is ordered at the time the logger is purchased and is pre‑installed at the
factory. If the receiver was not previously ordered, it can be installed by the user. To install the receiver
follow the steps listed in the following. The GPS Receiver PCB is illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
1. Completely remove the logger’s front panel assembly in accordance with the procedure entitled
“Working Inside the Data Logger” on page 73.
2. The hole in the logger’s top panel labeled “GPS Antenna” is capped with a plastic plug. Using a small
screwdriver, carefully pry the plug off. Replace it with the plug that was shipped along with the GPS
Receiver PCB. The new plug includes a hole and serves as an insulating grommet.
3. Locate the 6‑pin female socket labeled “J10” near the top‑right edge of the Processor PCB. The
socket is illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
4. Carefully align the MCX connector with the top panel hole and the six pins on the GPS Receiver PCB
with their socket counterparts. Press lightly on the edges of the PCB to insure it is seated properly and
fully into the socket. The PCB should snap into place as it is secured by a pair of plastic stand‑offs.
6
Do not, under any circumstances, press down on the center of the GPS Receiver PCB. Located in the
center of the PCB is a metal encased component. The metal, if bent, can damage the electronic cir‑
cuitry it protects. When installing the PCB snap it into place by pressing lightly and only along its edges.
5. Reassemble the logger.
6. The GPS antenna is housed inside a watertight enclosure at the end of a 16′ long coax cable. Snap
the cable end into the mating MCX connector located at the logger’s top panel.
7. The antenna can be secured to any surface less than 3/8″ in thickness. For best reception it is best to
locate the antenna outdoors and pointed skyward.
After power is reapplied to the logger and the rmware is initialized, the Clock Sync Mode must be set to
GPS. Refer to the section entitled “Clock Sync Mode” on page 22.
inStaLLing the optionaL MoD eM
The VDL can be equipped with a 33,600 Baud internal modem. The optional modem provides accessibil‑
ity to remote users of the logger. Unlike commercially available external modems, the VDL modem will
operate over the entire temperature range applicable to the logger. It uses the internal power of the
VDL rather than commercial AC power.
Generally, the modem PCB is ordered at the time the logger is purchased and is pre‑installed at the fac‑
tory. If the modem was not previously ordered, it can be installed by the user. To install the modem follow
the steps listed in the following. The modem is illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
1. Completely remove the logger’s front panel assembly in accordance with the procedure entitled
“Working Inside the Data Logger” on page 73.
2. Locate the 16‑pin female socket labeled “J8” near the center of the Processor PCB. The socket is
illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
74 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 6 – Ma in ten an Ce Wo rKing inSiDe t he Da ta Lo gg er
GFEDCBA
85-0135
GPS Receiver
(optional)
J10
Power
Fuse
Relay
Fuse
1Amp 2AG
J8
85-0145
85-0136
Ethernet Port
(optional)
U6
Modem
(optional)
To Keypad/Input PCB
J7
A
Power
E
USB Device Port
3. Temporarily remove the 6‑32 1/4″ screw and lock washer secured to the hex stand‑off located to the
right of the socket.
B
F
Relay
V-P Port
Figure 5:
Processor PCB
C
Analog Inputs
G
Terminal Port
85-0131
Processor Rev D
MICRO-AIDE
D
Phone line
6
4. Install the modem PCB by mating its sixteen‑pin female connector with the Processor PCB socket. Use
the 6‑32 screw and lock washer to secure the modem to the hex stand‑off.
5. Reassemble the logger.
When the VDL is reinitialized the rmware will automatically detect the modem’s presence and congure
it for auto‑answer and originate operation.
inStaLLing the optionaL eth ern et por t
The VDL can be equipped with a 10 / 100 Base‑T Ethernet Port. The optional Ethernet Port allows high
speed local or remote access to the logger via a TCP / IP‑based Local Area Network (LAN) connection. It
uses the internal power of the VDL rather than commercial AC power. Table 14 on page 87 lists the bit
transfer rates of each user accessible port.
Generally, the Ethernet Port is ordered at the time the logger is purchased and is pre‑installed at the
factory. If the port was not previously ordered the user may wish to install it after delivery of the logger. To
install the Ethernet Port follow the steps listed below.
1. Completely remove the logger’s front panel assembly in accordance with the procedure entitled
“Working Inside the Data Logger” on page 73.
2. Remove and discard the protective plate that covers the Ethernet Port opening located at the top
panel. A 6‑32 1/4″ nut secures the protective plate.
75Mi cro ‑Aid e
3. Locate the 56‑pin female socket labeled “U6” along the upper edge of the Processor PCB. The
socket is illustrated in Figure 5 on page 75.
4. Carefully align all of the pins on the Ethernet Port module with their socket counterparts. Press rmly
on the module to insure it is seated properly and fully into the socket.
5. Reassemble the logger.
After power is reapplied to the logger and the rmware is initialized, the Ethernet Port must be properly
congured. Refer to the procedure entitled “Network (N)” on page 31.
reConneCting the interna L CabL eS
There are two ribbon cables inside the VDL. A fourteen‑conductor cable is used to connect the
Keypad / Input PCB to the Processor PCB. To reconnect the cable simply seat its end into its respective
connector, labeled “J7”. The connector end of each cable is keyed. Do not force the connector end
into place. It should t snugly but easily.
The second ribbon cable connects the Keypad / Input PCB to the LCD panel. It is easily damaged if im‑
properly removed. Unless otherwise instructed by MICRO‑AIDE service personnel, this cable should never
be disconnected.
DiagnoStiC teSting
The Main Menu of commands for the VDL includes the Diagnostics command. Refer to the sample data
entitled “Main Menu” on page 15. The Diagnostics command can be used to quickly verify the opera‑
tional integrity of several hardware elements of the VDL. Each of the eight tests can be performed at any
time. They are non‑destructive and therefore will not alter the contents of the Setup Database or Event
Record memories.
6
The following menu of commands will be displayed in response to selecting the Diagnostics command.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
System Diagnostics
C Checksum Test Program Memory
F Flash Memory Test
G GPS Receiver Test
E Ethernet Test
M Modem Test
K Keypad Test
R Relay Test
T Temperature
Diagnostics Command
Each command performs a specic test. The tests are described in the following sections.
CheCKSUM teSt prograM Me Mor y (C)
The Program Memory Test reads every memory address location used to store the program code. As part
of the reading process a checksum is calculated and displayed at the completion of the test. The same
checksum must be calculated each time the test is performed. Either GOOD or BAD will be reported at
the completion of the test.
A typical response to the Program Memory Test is listed in the following.
Program Memory Checksum=19bb
GOOD
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
Program Memory Test
76 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 6 – Ma in ten an Ce Di agnoS ti C teS ti ng
The checksum takes only a few seconds to be calculated. The checksum value of 19bb in the previous
example will vary with the version of the rmware installed in the logger.
fLaSh MeMory teSt (f)
The Flash Memory Test is performed on the memory chip used to store Event Records. The test veries that
the microprocessor can access the Event Record memory.
A typical response to the Flash Memory Test command is listed in the following.
Flash Memory1: 4096K
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
Flash Memory Test
If the logger has been equipped with larger amounts of Flash Memory the 4096K reference will be
replaced by the references 8192K or 16384K. A failure has been detected if 0K is reported. The readings
should be compared to the known memory capacity of the logger.
gpS reCeiVer teSt (g)
The GPS Receiver Test will check for the presence and operability of the optional GPS Receiver. The test
will report several different messages depending upon the state of the receiver.
If the GPS Receiver has achieved a signal lock with at least four satellites, valid UTC‑0 time and latitude
and longitude coordinates similar to the following will be reported.
GPS Time: 20:42:57.068 is Valid
Location: 34.1044º, -117.8783º
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
GPS Receiver Test ‑ Signal Acquired
A signal lock with one to three satellites allows the GPS Receiver to report a valid UTC‑0 time. In such
cases latitude and longitude coordinates of 0.0000º will be reported. Irrespective of the reported latitude
and longitude coordinates, if the test reports Valid the GPS Receiver option is reporting an accurate
UTC‑0 time.
If the GPS Receiver is installed but has not as yet achieved, or is unable to achieve, a signal lock with any
satellite, the following will be reported.
GPS Time: 23:59:44.000 is Not Valid
Location: 0.0000º, 0.0000º
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
GPS Receiver Test ‑ Signal Not Acquired
If the GPS Receiver has failed completely or is not installed the following message will be reported.
6
GPS Receiver not installed
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
GPS Receiver Test ‑ Not Installed
77Mi cro ‑Aid e
ethernet teSt (e)
The Ethernet Test can be performed at any time to verify that the microprocessor can communicate
properly with the Ethernet Port. The test can be performed while the port is active or idle.
Assuming the Ethernet Port is operating properly, the following message will be reported.
Ethernet Okay
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
Okay is used to indicate a successful test. Not installed is used to indicate a failure.
The Ethernet Test does not test for LAN communications. For this reason, MICRO‑AIDE recommends that a
ping test also be performed.
MoDeM teSt (M)
The Modem Test can be performed at any time to verify that the microprocessor can communicate
properly with the internal modem. The test can be performed while the modem is idle or while a call is
active.
Assuming that a modem is installed and it is operating properly the following message will be reported.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Ethernet Test
Modem Test in progress...
Modem found: C
Test Complete
6
The C reference indicates that a Silicon Labs modem is installed. If a modem is installed but NONE is indi‑
cated, a problem has occurred and must be corrected.
Press any key to continue
Modem Test
KeypaD teSt (K)
Each of the twenty keys that comprise the front panel keypad can be checked by using the Keypad
Test. The following instructions are displayed after selecting the command.
Keypad test, press ESC to cancel
Keypad Test
A single unique character is displayed in response to pressing a key. The correspondence between non‑
numeric keys and displayed characters is listed in Table 11 on page 78.
Key Browse Alpha Setup Esc Enter Save/.
Displayed B A S E N . ^ v < >
Table 11: Keypad Test Characters
To exit the test, press the Esc key located at the keyboard of the peripheral device that is communicat‑
ing with the VDL.
/ ‑
reLay teSt (r)
The Relay Test allows the user to verify the operation of the internal relay and any alarm or indication
circuitry connected to the contacts of the relay.
78 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 6 – Ma in ten an Ce Sy SteM eV entS
The following message will be displayed in response to the Relay Test command. Press the appropriate
numeric key to change the state of the relay. To energize the relay select the Relay ON option. To un‑
energize the relay select the Relay OFF option.
Relay Test
1 Relay ON
2 Relay OFF
Relay Test
To exit the test press the Esc key. The relay will automatically reassume its pre‑test state.
teMperatUre (t)
The Temperature Test simply reports the temperature inside the logger.
A typical response to the Temperature Test command is listed in the following. The temperature is always
reported in degrees Fahrenheit.
Unit Temperature 83 Degrees F
Test Complete
Press any key to continue
Temperature Test
The measured temperature inside the VDL will generally be 5 ºF to 10 ºF warmer than the surrounding
ambient temperature. Temperature readings should never exceed 180 ºF.
The user may wish to contact MICRO‑AIDE customer service if a failure occurs as the result of any diag‑
nostic testing. Instructions on how to proceed will be offered. The MICRO‑AIDE “Material Return” and
“Limited Warranty” policies are described on the inside back cover of this manual.
SySteM eVentS
Event Records are normally created by a change in state of an input. Exceptions to this rule concern the
cycling of power to the logger and variations in the measured temperature.
Each time power to the VDL is turned on or off an event will be logged into memory. If the temperature
transitions into or out of the acceptable range an event will also be logged. Additionally, each time the
SNTP Clock Sync feature sets the logger’s real‑time clock an Event Record is logged. These events are
classied as System Events. To distinguish them, the Input Number always includes an S‑prex (e.g., S01).
Additionally, the Input Name, Identier and Event Name elds within the record are uniquely labeled.
They cannot be changed by the user. Table 12 on page 79 lists the various elds used by each System
Event Record.
6
InputNumber InputName Identifier EventNamePair
S01 System Power Power ON / OFF
S02 High Temperature HighTemp ON / OFF
S03 Low Temperature LowTemp ON / OFF
S04 Sntp Clock Sync SntpSync OFF / OFF
S05 GPS 5 Sec Correction GPS 5Sec OFF / OFF
S06 GPS Clock Record GPS Rec OFF / OFF
Table 12: System Event Records ‑ Assigned Labels
System Events can be reviewed using either of two formatting options. Record formats are described in
the section entitled “Event Record Formatting” on page 43. Listed in the following are seven sample
Event Records as they would appear at the PC. In the interest of simplicity only the single‑line form is
shown.
79Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
05:18:27.0 03/14/13 System Power Power OFF S01
05:18:59.2 03/14/13 System Power Power ON S01
14:11:51.0 03/14/13 High Temperature HighTemp ON S02
15:00:09.0 03/14/13 High Temperature HighTemp OFF S02
16:00:00.6 03/14/13 GPS Clock Record GPS Rec OFF S06 0.01SEC
Sample System Event Records
The rst two records indicate that power was off to the logger for approximately 32 seconds. Later in the
same day the measured temperature was found to be excessive for 48 minutes. At 16:00:00.6 the GPS
Receiver synchronized the logger’s clock. It corrected the clock by .01 seconds.
With the Clock Sync Mode set to SNTP or GPS the user will never have to manually set the clock.
The GPS Receiver sync record listed previously is shown in the following as it would appear at the front
panel LCD.
16:00:00.6 03-14-13
S06 0.01SEC
GPS Clock Record
GPS Rec OFF
LCD System Event Record
System Events can be Queried and Browsed just like other Event Records. Instead of selecting a D, A, V or
T input type designator, select the S‑type.
6
System Events are always logged to memory in chronological sequence. The power on event will imme‑
diately follow the power off event. The time between the two Event Records indicates the period during
which no logging was possible. All of the Analog Input measurements for S1 records will be reported with
a zero value. This is done to eliminate erroneous readings.
UpDating the firMW are
Like any microprocessor‑based product, the VDL executes a stored memory program. The program, re‑
ferred to as rmware, is saved in a Flash Memory chip. Flash Memory chips are uniquely characterized by
their permanent storage and multiple write properties. Their use allows the VDL rmware to be updated
to a newer version by simply uploading a new program le. The once common practice of shipping and
replacing a Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) chip does not apply to the VDL. Consequently,
there is no need to open the unit to gain access to the Processor PCB.
The rmware update procedure, described in this section, must be performed via a PC connected to the
Terminal Port, USB Device Port, Ethernet Port or internal modem (provided the latter two are installed).
At the request of the user, MICRO‑AIDE support personnel can perform the update via the modem. A
rmware update can also be performed very easily by using the USB Host Port. The instructions for doing
so are described in the section entitled “Update” on page 70.
Occasionally a new rmware release will be incompatible with the logger’s existing Setup Database.
When this happens the existing database will have to be erased and a new one created.
Incompatibilities, if any, are listed in Table 2 on page 4. It should always be reviewed before proceed‑
ing with an update.
The steps necessary to complete the rmware update depend upon which communications application
is being used. The following example describes the HyperTerminal method. HyperTerminal 7.0 was used
in the following procedure. Other versions of this program may be slightly different. However, the funda‑
mental approach will remain valid.
80 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 6 – Ma in ten an Ce Up Datin g the fir MWa re
1. The user must be online with the logger and the Main Menu should be displayed. Refer to the sample
data entitled “Main Menu” on page 15.
2. From the Main Menu select the Transfer Files command. The following sub‑menu of commands will be
displayed.
File Transfer
D Download Setup Data VDL to PC
U Upload Setup Data PC to VDL
F Firmware Upload
Transfer Files Command
3. Select the Firmware Upload command. The following warning will be displayed.
Are you SURE you want to upload new Firmware?
No Yes
4. To proceed select Yes. The following additional warning will be displayed.
OK to erase Firmware and upload new Firmware in Intel HEX format?
No Yes
5. To proceed select Yes. A nal precaution will be displayed as follows.
Do you want to ABORT this operation
No Yes
6. To proceed select No. After a short delay the following message will be displayed.
Please send Intel HEX le now.
7. Within the HyperTerminal window, click on the Transfers command, then the Send Text File... com‑
mand. The Send Text File dialog box will open.
8. In the drop down list box select All les (*.*) as the type of le to display.
9. Select the correct disk drive, folder and lename (e.g., VDL S7‑300 V113.hex). If the various settings
are correct click on the Open button.
10. The progress of the upload will be indicated by a sequence of period (.) characters.
11. The update will terminate automatically after a few minutes (at 38,400 Baud). The following message
will indicate a successful le transfer.
Done!
Press ESC to continue
12. Press the Esc key as instructed. The following message will be displayed.
Do you want to restart the data logger now?
No Yes
6
13. Select Yes to initialize the new rmware. At the conclusion of the initialization the user will be asked to
log on.
After completing the rmware update procedure it may be necessary to execute the Reset System com‑
mand. A reset should be performed only if recommended by MICRO‑AIDE customer service technicians.
Refer to the section entitled “Reset System (R)” on page 18.
81Mi cro ‑Aid e
troUbLe‑Shooting gUiDe
The following guide is provided to assist the user in resolving problems that may occur with the opera‑
tion of the VDL. It can be especially helpful when attempting to operate the logger for the rst time.
Procedures for resolving both local and remote problems are listed. Where multiple steps are indicated
it is recommended that they be performed in the order listed. Corrective actions to be performed
inside the VDL must be carried out in accordance with the procedure entitled “Working Inside the Data
Logger” on page 73.
If the user is unable to resolve the problem, MICRO‑AIDE customer service technicians should be con‑
tacted. The user will be asked to state the problem, related symptoms, and indicate any operations or
conditions that have a bearing on the problem. If available, the results of any diagnostic tests should
be reported. If the logger has an installed modem it may prove to be helpful in diagnosing the problem
from the MICRO‑AIDE factory. The user will be asked to provide the appropriate telephone number and
correct password.
SymptomorProblem Resolution
No indication of power. Verify 9 to 36 Vdc at B and N power terminals.
PC will not connect via USB Device
Port.
PC does not display data when con‑
nected to the Terminal Port.
6
Terminal Port data at PC is garbled. Check Baud rate setting.
Highlight cannot be moved using
PC arrow keys.
PC does not communicate via
Ethernet Port when directly con‑
nected.
Setup Database transfer fails via
Ethernet Port connection.
GPS Receiver fails to provide accu‑
rate clock control.
GPS Receiver diagnostic test reports
Invalid time and/or 0.0000º coordi‑
nates.
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Inspect fuse on Processor PCB.
Verify USB Type A‑B cable is being used.
Verify correct USB device driver is installed (refer to
Appendix C).
Check cable connection to Terminal Port.
Verify cable is assembled per Figure 6 on page 87.
Check Baud rate setting.
Check if Terminal LED on front panel illuminates.
Verify following setting: 8 data bits, 1 start bit, 1 stop bit.
Set PC for ANSI emulation.
Verify logger’s IP Address and Port Number are correctly as‑
signed.
Verify PC’s Ethernet Port is congured properly.
Verify PC’s communications application is set up for TCP / IP
protocol and Telnet.
Verify CAT‑5 cable is being used.
Use Network command to change TCP / IP mode setting to
Telnet.
Verify GPS antenna is plugged in.
Verify location of GPS antenna provides good skyward access.
Verify Clock Sync Mode is set to GPS.
Verify GPS Receiver diagnostic test reports Valid.
Wait 60 minutes while GPS Receiver attempts to achieve signal
lock with satellite(s).
Relocate GPS antenna for improved reception.
Table 13: Guide to Trouble‑Shooting Techniques
82 Mi cro ‑Aid e
Ch apter 6 – Ma in ten an Ce tr oUbLe ‑Shooti ng gU iD e
SymptomorProblem Resolution
SNTP fails to provide accurate clock
control.
Real‑time clock is incorrect by
one or more hours even with GPS
Receiver or SNTP control.
Cannot save Event Record les to
ash drive.
Unable to update rmware using
USB Host Port.
Event Records from some Digital
Inputs are not being created.
Analog Input AC source measures 0. Analog Input is congured for DC, change to AC.
Analog Input DC source measures
correctly but reports AC units.
Negative Analog Input voltage is
not reported, measures 0.
AC analog readings are not stable. Reassign the analog Filter setting to Slow.
DC analog readings are not track‑
ing voltage changes.
Timer Input is not reporting an Event
Record.
Upload / Download of Setup
Database fails.
Modem does not answer. Check phone line connection.
Modem answers but fails to con‑
nect.
Table 13: Guide to Trouble‑Shooting Techniques
Verify Clock Sync Mode is set to SNTP.
Verify time server is transmitting SNTP‑Multicast (or see next).
Verify time server is transmitting SNTP‑Unicast and SNTP Server
address is valid.
Verify correct Daylight Saving Time and Time Zone settings.
Verify the USB ash drive is formatted FAT‑32, not NTFS.
Verify ash drive is fully seated into USB Host Port.
LED on ash drive should ash as les are being saved.
Test integrity of ash drive by plugging it directly into a PC and
copying les from the PC.
Try another ash drive.
Verify the USB ash drive is formatted FAT‑32, not NTFS.
Verify ash drive is fully seated into USB Host Port.
Verify ash drive contains an unzipped rmware le.
Verify rmware lename ends in .hex.
Verify rmware lename does not include illegal characters.
Verify length of rmware lename does not exceed 20 charac‑
ters.
Verify CP 340 is properly installed and operational.
Verify VDL is properly cabled to S7‑300.
Use MICRO‑AIDE provided cable depicted in Figure 6 on
page 87.
Analog Input is congured for AC, change to DC.
Analog Input Range is set to +51.1 Vdc, change to ±25.5 Vdc or
±255 Vdc setting.
Reassign the analog Filter setting to Fast.
Verify valid inputs are assigned in the From and To elds.
Verify the assigned inputs are each generating state changes.
Verify Xmodem protocol is being used.
Verify Modem Ring Count is not set to zero.
Verify host modem is enabled for error corrected operation.
Check noise levels on phone lines.
Test host modem with another auto‑answer system.
6
83Mi cro ‑Aid e
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
SymptomorProblem Resolution
Modem will not dial out alarms. Test phone line for dial tone.
Perform Modem Test command.
Verify modem is enabled by Virtual Input settings for dial out.
Check Primary and Secondary Dial Numbers.
Internal relay will not operate. Perform Relay Test command.
Verify relay is enabled by Virtual Input.
Disconnect the external circuit attached to the relay contacts,
test again.
Visibility of LCD characters is poor. Adjust LCD contrast.
Setup Database is incorrect after
upgrading to V1.10 or later.
Table 13: Guide to Trouble‑Shooting Techniques
This completes the User Manual for the VDL S7‑300. As an aid to the user three appendices have been
provided. They include detailed specications and options applicable to the VDL. Instructions on how to
install the Windows drivers that support the USB Device Port feature are included in Appendix C.
Create new Setup Database, it is incompatible with V1.10 and
later.
Contact MICRO‑AIDE to have old Setup Database converted.
Any comments the reader may have on how to improve this manual are welcomed. Comments should
be forwarded to the Director of Marketing, MICRO‑AIDE Corporation.
6
84 Mi cro ‑Aid e
appenDix a – teChniCaL Data
SpeCifiCationS
Physical
Size (without mounting brackets)
Length: 9.5"
Height: 7.2"
Depth: 3.4"
Weight
2.5 lb.
Environmental
Storage
Temperature: ‑50 °C to 85 °C
Humidity: 0 to 95 %, non‑condensing
Operating
Temperature: ‑40 °C to 72 °C
Humidity: 0 to 95 %, non‑condensing
Mounting
Shelf or backboard (includes mounting brackets)
Construction
Chassis
Fully enclosed, anodized aluminum
Externally accessible keypad, LEDs and connec‑
tors
Electrical
All components mounted on conformal coated,
internal PCBs
Power
Voltage
Range: 9 to 36 Vdc
Consumption
Typical: 2 W
Maximum: 4 W (with GPS Receiver, Ethernet and
Modem options)
Isolation
Power
Minimum: 3800 Vdc from B and N terminals to
chassis and inputs
AnalogInputs
Minimum: 3800 Vdc to any terminal
InputtoAdjacentInput
Analog: minimum 3200 Vdc
USBHostandDevicePorts
Minimum: 3800 Vdc to any terminal
GPSReceiverandEthernetPort(optional)
Minimum: 3800 Vdc to any terminal
InternalModem(optional)
Designed to meet FCC part 68 standards
Capacities
Inputs
Digital: 999, as available from Siemens S7‑300
Analog: 4 total, voltage or current (optional)
Virtual: 8, user assigned
Timer: 16, user assigned
Outputs
Relay: 1, form C, rated for 2 A at 24 Vdc or 1 A at
125 Vac, maximum switching capacity of 125 VA
or 60 W, service life 1 million electrical (typical)
EventStorage
Standard: 284,785 records
Maximum: 1,182,769 records
LiquidCrystalDisplay
Characters: 80 total on 4 lines
ViewingArea: 2.8" by .8"
FrontPanelKeypad
Quantity: 20 keys
Inputs
InputImpedance
Analog: minimum 10 MOhms
Range
AnalogDCVoltage: 3 scales, ±25.5, +51.1, ±255
AnalogACVoltage: 2 scales, 25.5, 255
EventValidationTimes
Digital: not applicable, Siemens S7‑300 transmits
999 bit states 3 times per second using 3964R
protocol
Analog: fast and slow lter settings
AnalogLimitValues
Voltage
HighandLowLimits: in multiples of .1 V or 1 V
Current
HighandLowLimits: in multiples of .1 A
AnalogInputAccuracy
TypicalVdc: ±1 % full scale
TypicalVac: ±1.5 % full scale
TypicalCurrent: ±2 % full scale
VirtualInputs
Denitions
Any logical association shared by 1 to 4 variables
(i.e., Digital, Analog, Timer or other Virtual Inputs)
Assigned by dening the state of the Virtual Input
for each combination of variable states
Reporting
Creates standard Event Records
Relay can be controlled by each Virtual Input
Modem (optional) can be enabled to dial out
Event Records
TimerInputs
Programming
Any input can be assigned as a trigger or termi‑
nating source
On or Off events can be assigned as a trigger or
terminating source
LimitValues
HighandLowLimits: in multiples of .1 seconds
Range: 0.0 to 999.9 seconds
Reporting
Measured Time is reported in each Timer Input
Event Record
Violation of Limit Values are also reported
TemperatureSensing
Usage: measures and reports internal tempera‑
ture of logger
HighandLowLimits: ‑67 °F to 257 °F
Memory
Type
Non‑volatile, Event Records and Setup Database
are stored in ash memory chip
Newest data over‑writes oldest data, 129th day
over-writes rst day
StorageLongevity
Innite with power off
Rated for 100,000 write operations
Ports
RS‑232
Quantity: 1, for use with a PC
TerminalEmulation: ANSI
BaudRates: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,
19,200, 38,400, 57,600, 115,200
BitFormat: 8‑N‑1
Vital‑ProcessorPort
Quantity: 1, connects to CP 340 of Siemens
S7‑300
BitMessaging: Siemens S7‑300 transmits 999
bit states 3 times per second
Protocol: Siemens 3964R
BaudRates: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,
19,200, 38,400, 57,600, 115,200
DefaultRate: 9600
BitFormat: 8‑N‑1
USBHost
Compatible with any FAT-32 formatted ash drive
Can create a text le of Event Record data from
any time span
Can be used to update rmware
USBDevice
Eliminates need for serial comm port, data trans‑
fer rates of 960 Kbps
A
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
Ports(continued)
Ethernet(optional)
Type: 10 / 100 Base‑T
Protocols: TCP / IP, Telnet, SNTP‑Multicast and
‑Unicast
ConcurrentSessions: Telnet (2)
Provides remote or local access via TCP / IP
Data transfer rates of 850 Kbps
User assignable IP Address, Telnet port, sub‑net
mask, Unicast IP Address
Modem(optional)
Provides remote access, auto‑answer
GPSReceiver(optional)
Used to provide precise, real‑time clock control,
latitude and longitude coordinates
Connectors
Power
Detachable, tension clamp, 4‑position, 12 to
22 AWG
Dual B and N terminals
AnalogInputs
Detachable, tension clamp, 8‑position, 12 to
22 AWG
Relay
Detachable, tension clamp, 3‑position, 12 to
22 AWG
Normally open, normally closed and common
terminals per relay
TerminalPort
DE-9 male, congured as modied DCE
Vital‑ProcessorPort
DE-9 male, congured as modied DCE
USBHostPort
USB Type A female
A
USBDevicePort
USB Type B female
TelephoneLine
RJ‑11 female
EthernetPort(optional)
RJ‑45 female
GPSReceiver(optional)
MCX female
Indicators
LCDPanel
Includes LED back lighting for enhanced visibility
Displays numerous command menus for congur‑
ing the Data Logger and retrieving data
FrontPanelLEDs(3)
Power: green
Terminal: green, ashes with send and receive
data
Modem: green, ashes with send and receive
data and ringing
EthernetPortLEDs(2optional)
Green: link established
Yellow: data activity
Controls
Keypad
Located on front panel, below LCD
Keys: 0‑9, Browse, Alpha, Setup, Esc, Enter,
Save / ., left, right, up, down / ‑
LCDContrastAdjust
Single‑turn pot., accessible from front panel
InternalClock
Accuracy
Typical: ±8 seconds per month (3 ppm) when not
synchronized
Volatility: maintains accuracy for minimum of
30 days with loss of power
Resolution: .1 seconds for all Event Records
Siemens S7‑300 transmits 999 bit states 3 times
per second
SyncInterval
SNTP‑Unicast: via time server, 5 minutes after
each hour (requires Ethernet Port option)
SNTP‑Multicast: per time server schedule (re‑
quires Ethernet Port option)
GPS: once per hour (requires GPS Receiver
option)
Operation
TimeZones: selectable from 7 different North
American settings
DaylightSavingTime: enable or disable auto‑
matic adjustment
LeapYear: automatically adjusted
GPSReceiver(optional)
Includes PCB and external antenna
PCB
Plugs into mating connector inside Data Logger
Antenna
Size: Diameter 1.8", Height .6" (not including
mounting screw)
Weight: 2 oz. (less cable)
OperatingTemperature: ‑40° C to 85 °C
Mounting: bulkhead mountable to any surface
less than 3/8" thick
Location: unobstructed skyward orientation, for
use outdoors
PasswordProtection
AdministrativeLevel
Access: unrestricted to all functions
Length: 8 characters
RestrictedLevel
Access: Event Record and Setup Database
viewing only
Length: 8 characters
Passcode
Access: limited modications to Setup Database
via front panel
Length: 8 digits
InternalModem(optional)
Type
V.34, 33,600 Baud, data compression and error
correction
Usage
Remote access via auto‑answer operation
Allows dial‑out alarm reporting of Virtual Input
records
Compliance
Designed to meet FCC part 68 standards
Dial‑outAlarms(optional)
CallingMethod
Primary and secondary dial numbers, multiple
attempts
Tone or pulse dialing
Data
Issues Virtual Input Event Records if enabled by
Virtual Input denition
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MICRO‑AIDE reserves the right to make changes,
at its sole discretion, to any specication listed
herein.
ap penDi x a – teChni Ca L Dat a tr anSfe r rateS
tranSfer rateS
The following table lists typical bit transfer rates for each of the VDL’s user‑accessible ports. In each
case the same 20,000 Event Records with no‑detail formatting were either dumped to a PC le or saved
directly to a ash drive. The times listed are normalized relative to 1,000 Event Records. If speed is a con‑
cern, using the USB Device Port is highly recommended.
Port
Terminal Port (38,400) 18.78 38,352 Used as reference
Internal modem 14.48 50,638 1.3 times faster
Terminal Port (115,200) 6.28 114,569 3.0 times faster
USB Host 5.83 123,607 3.2 times faster
Ethernet Port .84 853,851 22.3 times faster
USB Device Port .75 960,103 25.0 times faster
terMinaL port CabLe
Two of the following cable are included with every VDL S7‑300. It is used to connect a PC to the VDL’s
Terminal Port. It is also used to connect the VDL to the CP 340 Communications Processor of the S7‑300.
Terminal or V-P
Port of VDL
Timetotransfer1,000
EventRecords(sec)
Table 14: Bit Transfer Rates by Port
DCE
Direction as shown
Actualtransfer
rate(bps)
Relativespeed
comparedto38,400
Comm Port of PC or
CP 340 of S7-300
DE-9 FemaleDE-9 Female
A
DTE
1
6
2
7
3
8
4
9
5
Figure 6:
DCD*
DSR
RD
RTS
TD
CTS
DTR
RI*
Gnd
*Connected, but not used
Shield is not attached
Terminal Port Cable ‑ Wiring Diagram
1
6
2
7
3
8
4
9
5
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USer noteS
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
A
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appenDix b – optionS anD aCCeSSorieS
optionS
GPSReceiverModule
85‑0135
Provides precise, non‑drift control of logger’s real‑time clock, includes
bulkhead‑mount antenna with 16 ' of cable
L56237‑5/00
Replaces bulkhead‑mount antenna with magnetic‑mount antenna
EthernetPort
85‑0136
10 / 100 Base‑T, 100 Mbps; TCP / IP, Telnet and SNTP‑Multicast compatible
InternalModem
85‑0145
33,600 Baud, V.34, V.32bis, V.32, V.22bis, V.22 and V.21
V.42bis and MNP 5 data compression
MNP 2‑4 and LAP‑M error correction
MemoryExpansion
40‑0416
584,113 Event Records
40‑0816
1,182,769 Event Records
aCCeSSorieS
Mounting
31‑0001
19" rack mounting brackets
31‑0002
23" rack mounting brackets
Cables
DE‑9 to DE‑9 (2, included)
USB A‑B cable (for use with USB Device Port)
B
Contact MICRO‑AIDE when ordering any options or accessories
Purchase orders should list part numbers as listed above
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USer noteS
VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
B
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appenDix C – USb DeViCe DriVerS
introDUCtion
Every VDL is equipped with a USB Device Port. The device port can be used to directly connect the Data
Logger to a PC that does not include a serial comm port. The port also provides a substantially higher
speed connection. Bit transfer rates of 960 Kbps can be achieved. Table 14 on page 87 lists the bit
transfer rates of each user‑accessible port.
This appendix provides a detailed description of how to select and install the proper drivers for the USB
Device Port. Separate procedures for Windows XP
The following procedure requires access to several les. The correct les are included in the CD that ac‑
companies this User Manual. The CD can be found inside the back cover. The les are also available for
downloading from the MICRO‑AIDE website at:
http://micro‑aide.com/support/downloads.htm
Do not attempt to install driver les from any source other than the enclosed CD or MICRO‑AIDE website.
preparation
The following pre‑installation steps must be completed before the driver installation procedure can be
started.
Locate the CD that is inserted inside the back cover of this User Manual. Alternatively, download
•
the le named “usb_device_drivers.zip” from the MICRO‑AIDE website. Unzip the downloaded le.
The extracted les must then be saved to a known location (e.g., to a new folder located at the PC
desktop).
A USB Type A‑B cable is required.
•
Apply power to the logger and insure that it has completed its initialization cycle.
•
inStaLLing the DriVerS
®
and Windows 7 are listed in the sections that follow.
C
WinDoWS xp proCeDUre
To install the proper USB Device Port drivers, complete the following steps in the order listed.
1. Connect the USB Type A‑B cable to the logger’s USB Device Port and an available USB port at the PC.
2. After a brief delay the rst of several Found New Hardware Wizard screens will be displayed. Enable
the radio button labeled “No, not this time”. This will prevent Windows from attempting to access the
drivers via the Internet. The correct setting is shown in the following. Click the button labeled “Next>”.
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VDL S7‑300 USe r ManUa L
3. The second screen of the Found New Hardware Wizard shown in the following will be displayed.
Enable the radio button labeled “Install from a list or specic location (Advanced)”. The correct set‑
ting is shown in the following. Click the button labeled “Next>”.
C
4. Insert the CD that is included with this User Manual into an available CD drive. Ignore this step if the
software was downloaded from the MICRO‑AIDE website.
5. The third screen of the Found New Hardware Wizard shown in the following will be displayed. Enable
the radio button labeled “Search for the best driver in these locations”. Clear the check box labeled
“Search removable media (oppy, CD‑ROM...)”. Check the check box labeled “Include this location
in the search:”.
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