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M212315EN-B
User Guide
Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server
V
ersion 5.1
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PUBLISHED BY
Vaisala Oyj
Vanha Nurmijärventie 21, FI-01670 Vantaa, Finland
P.O. Box 26, FI-00421 Helsinki, Finland
+358 9 8949 1
Visit our Internet pages at w
© Vaisala Oyj 2020
No part of this document may be
r
eproduced, published or publicly
displayed in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical (including
photocopying), nor may its contents be
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disclosed to a third party without prior
written permission of the copyright holder.
Translated documents and translated
portions of multilingual documents are
based on the original English versions. In
ambiguous cases, the English versions are
applicable, not the translations.
The contents of this document are subject
to change without prior notice.
Local rules and regulations may vary and
they shall take precedence over the
information contained in this document.
Vaisala makes no representations on this
document’s compliance with the local
rules and regulations applicable at any
given time, and hereby disclaims any and
all responsibilities related thereto.
This document does not create any legally
binding obligations for Vaisala towards
customers or end users. All legally binding
ww.vaisala.com.
obligations and agreements are included
xclusively in the applicable supply
e
contract or the General Conditions of Sale
and General Conditions of Service of
Vaisala.
This product contains software developed
by Vaisala or third parties. Use of the
software is governed by license terms and
conditions included in the applicable
supply contract or, in the absence of
separate license terms and conditions, by
the General License Conditions of Vaisala
Group.
This product may contain open source
software (OSS) components. In the event
this product contains OSS components,
then such OSS is governed by the terms
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licenses, and you are bound by the terms
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connection with your use and distribution
of the OSS in this product. Applicable OSS
licenses are included in the product itself
or provided to you on any other applicable
media, depending on each individual
product and the product items delivered
to you.
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Table of contents
Table of contents
1. Product Overview...........................................................................................
1.1 Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server.................................................................9
1.2 How Does viewLinc Work?.............................................................................. 9
1.2.1 System Components.................................................................................9
1.2.2 Optional Feature Requirements.............................................................10
1.2.3 Security Requirements............................................................................10
1.2.4 Purchased Certificate Requirements......................................................11
1.2.5 Hardware Requirements...........................................................................11
1.2.6 Server Requirements............................................................................... 12
1.2.7 Installed System Size............................................................................... 14
1.2.8 End User PC and Remote Display Requirements.................................15
1.2.9 Default Application File Locations.........................................................15
1.2.10 Web API and REST API Programming Interfaces.................................15
1.3 What's New...................................................................................................... 15
1.3.1 What's New for Upgrade Users.............................................................. 17
1.3.2 Watch a Tour............................................................................................. 21
1.4 Device Connection Options............................................................................21
1.4.1 Ways to Connect Hardware....................................................................22
1.4.2 Using Wireless Devices...........................................................................23
1.4.3 Using vNet Devices.................................................................................24
1.4.4 Using Single or Multi-Port Ethernet Device Connectors....................24
1.4.5 Using USB Ports.......................................................................................25
1.4.6 Using Serial Ports.................................................................................... 26
1.5 Version Information........................................................................................26
1.6 Related Manuals..............................................................................................27
1.7 Documentation Conventions.........................................................................27
1.8 Trademarks......................................................................................................28
1.9 Training............................................................................................................ 28
2. Setup and Installation.................................................................................29
2.1 Setup Roadmap..............................................................................................29
2.2 Setup Checklist...............................................................................................30
2.3 Installation........................................................................................................ 31
2.3.1 Installing viewLinc Enterprise Server Software....................................31
2.3.2 Installing viewLinc on a Device Host Server........................................ 33
2.3.3 Installing viewLinc - Upgrade an Existing Server................................34
2.3.4 Installing viewLinc - Upgrade on a New Server...................................35
2.4 Install Devices..................................................................................................37
2.4.1 Install Access Points................................................................................37
2.4.2 Install Data Loggers and Transmitters..................................................37
2.5 Log in to viewLinc.......................................................................................... 38
2.6 Discover and Accept Devices........................................................................39
2.7 Configuring viewLinc Enterprise Server..................................................... 40
2.7.1 viewLinc Planning Worksheet................................................................ 41
2.8 System Test.....................................................................................................44
2.9 Validate your System.....................................................................................44
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3. Device Management....................................................................................
45
3.1 Device Hosts................................................................................................... 46
3.1.1 Adding Device Hosts..............................................................................46
3.1.2 Adding Access Point Hosts....................................................................47
3.2 Ways to Add Devices..................................................................................... 47
3.2.1 Discovering Networked Devices........................................................... 48
3.2.2 Accepting Wireless Devices...................................................................48
3.2.3 Adding Devices Manually.......................................................................49
3.2.4 Adding Multiple Device Types................................................................ 51
3.3 Configure Hosts and Devices......................................................................... 51
3.3.1 Viewing Host and Device Properties.....................................................52
3.3.2 Editing Host Properties.......................................................................... 54
3.3.3 Editing Device Properties.......................................................................56
3.3.4 Editing Channel Properties....................................................................59
4. Sites Management........................................................................................ 62
4.1 Zones and Locations...................................................................................... 62
4.2 Create Zones and Locations..........................................................................63
4.2.1 Creating Zones........................................................................................ 63
4.2.2 Creating Locations..................................................................................64
4.3 Link Device Channels to Locations.............................................................. 64
4.3.1 Linking Channels to Locations...............................................................65
4.3.2 Creating Linked Locations Automatically............................................66
4.3.3 Viewing Channel Link History................................................................67
4.3.4 Finding a Channel's Linked Location (Sites Manager)....................... 67
4.3.5 Finding a Location's Linked Channel (Sites Manager).......................68
4.3.6 Finding a Location's Linked Channel (Sites)........................................68
4.4 Build Dashboards...........................................................................................69
4.4.1 Building Dashboards.............................................................................. 69
4.4.2 Changing Dashboard Display Settings.................................................70
4.4.3 Deleting Dashboard Images or Data Points.........................................73
5. Groups and Users..........................................................................................74
5.1 Rights............................................................................................................... 75
5.2 Adding Groups................................................................................................76
5.3 Adding Users...................................................................................................77
6. Alarm Templates............................................................................................81
6.1 Types of Alarms............................................................................................... 81
6.2 System Alarms................................................................................................82
6.3 Threshold Alarms............................................................................................83
6.3.1 Creating Threshold Alarm Templates...................................................84
6.3.2 Applying Threshold Alarm Templates to Locations............................86
6.3.3 Editing Threshold Alarm Templates......................................................88
6.3.4 Editing Location Threshold Alarm Settings.........................................88
6.3.5 Deactivating Threshold Alarms.............................................................89
6.3.6 Reactivating Threshold Alarms............................................................. 89
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6.4 Device Alarms.................................................................................................
90
6.4.1 Types of Device Alarms..........................................................................90
6.4.2 Editing Host Communication Alarm Settings......................................92
6.4.3 Editing Host Configuration Alarm Settings......................................... 93
6.4.4 Creating Device Alarm Templates.........................................................94
6.4.5 Applying Device Alarm Templates........................................................96
6.4.6 Editing Device Alarm Templates........................................................... 97
6.4.7 Editing Location Device Alarm Settings...............................................97
6.5 Alarm Notifications........................................................................................ 98
6.5.1 Web Service for SMS and Voice Alarm Notifications......................... 99
6.5.2 Creating Alarm Notification Templates..............................................100
6.5.3 Applying Alarm Notification Templates............................................. 103
6.5.4 Editing Alarm Notification Templates.................................................106
6.6 Notification Content.....................................................................................106
6.6.1 Creating Custom Message Content.................................................... 106
7. System Preferences................................................................................... 109
7.1 Modifying General System Settings...........................................................109
7.2 Allowing Remote Acknowledgement...........................................................111
7.3 Enabling or Disabling Schedules..................................................................112
7.4 Enabling or Disabling Audible Alarms.........................................................112
7.5 Setting Temperature Measurement Units................................................... 113
7.6 Setting MKT Activation Energy Value..........................................................113
7.7 Setting Device or Channel Alias Preferences............................................. 114
7.8 Setting System-Wide Default Calibration Duration...................................114
7.9 Enabling or Disabling Timebase Synchronization......................................115
7.10 Enabling or Disabling viewLinc Aware........................................................ 115
7.11 Entering New License Key............................................................................ 116
7.12 Setting Authentication Requirement.......................................................... 116
7.13 Changing Technical Support Log Settings..................................................117
7.14 Setting System Language.............................................................................117
7.14.1 Making Additional Languages Available..............................................118
7.15 Setting Measurement Unit Display Preferences.........................................118
7.16 Configuring Email/SMS/Voice Notification Preferences...........................119
7.16.1 Configuring Email Settings....................................................................119
7.16.2 Configuring SMS Settings.....................................................................120
7.16.3 Configuring Voice Call Web Service....................................................122
7.17 Setting System Alarm Preferences............................................................. 123
7.18 Setting Comments Preferences...................................................................124
7.19 Adding Predefined Comments....................................................................125
8. Additional Setup Tasks............................................................................. 126
8.1 Permissions....................................................................................................126
8.1.1 Permission Levels...................................................................................128
8.1.2 Applying Group Permission to Zones................................................. 128
8.1.3 Using Permissions Viewer.................................................................... 130
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8.2 Schedules.......................................................................................................
130
8.2.1 Creating Schedules.................................................................................131
8.2.2 Setting Threshold Alarm Schedules.................................................... 132
8.2.3 Adding User Schedules.........................................................................133
8.3 Views.............................................................................................................. 134
8.3.1 Your Views..............................................................................................134
8.3.2 Creating Views....................................................................................... 135
8.3.3 Organizing Locations in a View............................................................135
8.3.4 Sharing Views.........................................................................................135
8.3.5 Setting Default View............................................................................. 136
8.3.6 Creating Views for Remote Display.....................................................136
8.4 Signal Towers.................................................................................................137
8.4.1 Adding Signal Towers............................................................................137
8.5 viewLinc Access through Remote Display or Mobile Device...................139
8.5.1 Remote Display Requirements............................................................140
8.5.2 Setting Up Remote Display..................................................................140
8.5.3 Using viewLinc Mobile............................................................................141
8.6 Setting Up Voice or SMS Web Services.......................................................141
8.7 Vaisala OPC UA Server.................................................................................143
9. Daily Tasks..................................................................................................... 145
9.1 Desktop Orientation..................................................................................... 145
9.1.1 Icons........................................................................................................ 146
9.1.2 Searching for Zones and Locations.....................................................147
9.1.3 Working with Columns......................................................................... 148
9.2 Monitoring Conditions..................................................................................149
9.2.1 Identifying Active Alarms.....................................................................150
9.2.2 Using Status Tab.................................................................................... 150
9.2.3 Triggering Threshold Alarms.................................................................151
9.2.4 Responding to Alarms............................................................................151
9.2.5 Viewing Conditions on Dashboards.................................................... 152
9.2.6 Viewing Dashboard Location Trends...................................................153
9.2.7 Finding Linked Dashboard Location................................................... 153
9.2.8 Printing Current Alarm Data.................................................................153
9.2.9 Exporting Current Alarm Data.............................................................154
9.3 Receiving Alarm Notifications.....................................................................154
9.3.1 Acknowledging Alarms.........................................................................155
9.3.2 Acknowledging Inactive Alarms..........................................................159
9.3.3 Responding to Audible Alarms........................................................... 160
9.4 Pausing Alarms...............................................................................................161
9.4.1 Pausing Threshold Alarming................................................................. 161
9.4.2 Pausing Device or Host Alarming........................................................ 162
9.4.3 Resuming Threshold, Device or Host Alarming.................................164
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9.5 Tracking Events.............................................................................................
164
9.5.1 Viewing Events...................................................................................... 164
9.5.2 Adding Comments to Events...............................................................165
9.5.3 Viewing Comments to Events..............................................................166
9.5.4 Adding Custom Events......................................................................... 166
9.5.5 Printing Event Logs...............................................................................166
9.5.6 Exporting Event Logs............................................................................167
9.6 Creating Trends.............................................................................................168
9.6.1 Building Trends...................................................................................... 169
9.6.2 Trend Functions..................................................................................... 170
9.6.3 Trend Navigation.....................................................................................171
9.6.4 Modifying Trends....................................................................................172
9.6.5 Saving Trends......................................................................................... 173
9.7 Viewing Quick Trends................................................................................... 174
9.7.1 Viewing Quick Trends in Sites Window...............................................174
9.7.2 Viewing Quick Trends in Sites Manager Window...............................175
9.7.3 Viewing Quick Trends in Overview Window.......................................175
9.8 Reporting....................................................................................................... 175
9.8.1 Types of Reports.................................................................................... 175
9.8.2 Generating Reports............................................................................... 176
9.8.3 Sharing Quick Reports.......................................................................... 177
9.8.4 Generating Quick Reports.................................................................... 177
9.8.5 Viewing Report Downloads..................................................................178
9.8.6 Deactivating Reports.............................................................................179
9.8.7 Activating Reports................................................................................ 180
9.8.8 Generating Alarm Reports...................................................................180
9.9 Creating Custom Reports............................................................................180
9.9.1 Creating Location History Reports....................................................... 181
9.9.2 Creating Alarm Reports........................................................................ 187
9.9.3 Creating System Reports......................................................................190
9.10 Viewing Data with viewLinc Mobile............................................................192
9.10.1 Opening a Pop-up Trend...................................................................... 193
9.10.2 Pausing or Resuming Alarming with viewLinc Mobile......................194
9.10.3 Acknowledging an Alarm with viewLinc Mobile................................195
9.10.4 Viewing Data on a Remote Display.....................................................196
9.10.5 Changing a Display Terminal View......................................................196
10. Administrator Tasks....................................................................................197
10.1 Groups and Users.......................................................................................... 197
10.1.1 Editing User or Group Details...............................................................197
10.1.2 Locking and Unlocking User Accounts............................................... 197
10.1.3 Deactivating Users................................................................................ 198
10.1.4 Reactivating Users................................................................................. 198
10.1.5 Deactivating Groups..............................................................................198
10.1.6 Reactivating Groups..............................................................................199
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10.2 Zones and Locations....................................................................................
199
10.2.1 Editing Zone Display Properties..........................................................199
10.2.2 Editing Location Display Properties.................................................. 200
10.2.3 Viewing Location Properties.............................................................. 200
10.2.4 Renaming Location or Zone.................................................................201
10.2.5 Unlinking or Relinking Locations and Channels............................... 202
10.2.6 Moving Locations................................................................................. 204
10.3 Removing Zones and Locations.................................................................205
10.3.1 Deactivating Locations........................................................................205
10.3.2 Reactivating Locations........................................................................206
10.3.3 Hiding or Showing Deactivated Locations........................................206
10.3.4 Deleting Locations............................................................................... 206
10.3.5 Deleting Zones......................................................................................207
10.4 Enabling or Disabling Alarming................................................................. 207
10.4.1 Enabling or Disabling Threshold Alarm Settings..............................207
10.4.2 Enabling or Disabling Threshold Alarm Template Levels................208
10.4.3 Enabling or Disabling a Device Alarm Assigned to a Location.......208
10.4.4 Enabling or Disabling Multiple Device Alarms..................................209
10.4.5 Enabling or Disabling Host Alarming.................................................209
10.5 Device Maintenance..................................................................................... 210
10.6 Device Removal.............................................................................................210
10.6.1 Deactivating Hosts or Devices.............................................................210
10.6.2 Reactivating Hosts or Devices...............................................................211
10.6.3 Hiding or Showing Deactivated Hosts or Devices.............................. 211
10.6.4 Releasing RFL Data Loggers................................................................. 211
10.7 Swapping Devices.........................................................................................212
10.8 Adding Modbus Devices...............................................................................213
10.8.1 Configure Modbus Device Connections..............................................215
10.9 Editing Modbus Device Settings................................................................. 217
10.10 Device Calibration.........................................................................................217
10.10.1 Editing Channel Calibration Properties...............................................217
10.10.2 Editing Device or Probe Calibration Properties................................. 218
10.10.3 O-site Calibration................................................................................219
10.10.4 On-site Calibration.................................................................................219
10.11 Locking or Unlocking DL Data Loggers..................................................... 219
10.11.1 Locking a DL Data Logger to viewLinc..............................................220
10.11.2 Unlocking a DL Data Logger from viewLinc..................................... 220
10.12 Clearing Historical Samples in DL Data Loggers.....................................220
10.13 Clearing Tampered Security Status............................................................ 221
10.14 Testing Network Communications.............................................................222
10.15 Restarting viewLinc Enterprise Server...................................................... 222
10.16 Restarting viewLinc Device Host or Access Point....................................223
11. Frequently Asked Questions.................................................................224
11.1 Installation Tips............................................................................................ 224
11.2 Security Certificate Management Tips...................................................... 224
11.3 Managing Data..............................................................................................227
11.4 Managing Devices........................................................................................ 227
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11.5 Pr
edefined Settings..................................................................................... 229
11.6 Troubleshooting Tips...................................................................................232
11.6.1 Responding to Alarms......................................................................... 236
Glossary...........................................................................................................239
Index.................................................................................................................245
Warranty.......................................................................................................... 261
Technical support...........................................................................................261
Recycling..........................................................................................................261
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List of tables
Table 1 Server requirements..........................................................................................12
Table 2 Device Host Server Requirements.................................................................13
Table 3 Requirements based on system size.............................................................13
Table 4 Client requirements...........................................................................................13
Table 5 Network ports.....................................................................................................14
Table 6 Server Requirements Based on System Size..............................................14
Table 7 Default Installation Folders............................................................................. 15
Table 8 New viewLinc 5.1 Features...............................................................................15
Table 9 Key Features of viewLinc.................................................................................16
Table 10 Enhancements.....................................................................................................17
Table 11 Important Changes for Upgrade Users from 4.3 or earlier.................... 18
Table 12 Document Versions...........................................................................................27
Table 13 Related Manuals.................................................................................................27
Table 14 Device Properties - Columns..........................................................................52
Table 15 Host Properties - Columns............................................................................. 54
Table 16 Rights Definitions..............................................................................................
Table 17 Alarm Descriptions...........................................................................................82
Table 18 Permission Levels............................................................................................ 128
Table 19 Connecting to Vaisala OPC UA Server.......................................................143
Table 20 Home Screen Icons......................................................................................... 146
Table 21 Window Icons...................................................................................................146
Table 22 Status Tab Columns........................................................................................ 150
Table 23 Dashboard Alarm Status................................................................................152
Table 24 Dashboard Navigation Tools.........................................................................152
Table 25 Key Elements in a Trend Graph....................................................................169
Table 26 Location Properties Columns..................................................................... 200
Table 27 Definitions File Fields.....................................................................................227
Table 28 Notification Macros........................................................................................230
Table 29 Tips for Managing Alarms............................................................................ 234
Table 30 Tips for Responding to Alarms...................................................................236
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Chapter 1 – Product Overview
1. Product Overview
1.1 Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server
Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server is the software used to support all combinations of the
V
aisala viewLinc Monitoring System. It features triple-redundant data retention ensuring that
data is immune to power outages, network interruptions, and human error.
Use viewLinc to monitor device readings locally on a PC, across a network using a supported
Internet browser, or from mobile devices like the iPhone or Google Android.
Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server software provides continuous monitoring of real-time data,
ensures data history is backed-up, recognizes alarm conditions, and can automatically send
alarm notifications to individuals or groups wherever your business is located. This flexible and
scalable system allows you to set up a server in Paris to monitor a sensor in Berlin, and
schedule reports to be sent to your team members in their choice of eight languages.
viewLinc provides you with many configuration options. You can set up the system for users
with dierent levels of responsibility, manage multiple alarm notification methods, display
data for a wide range of display formats, and accommodate custom reporting requirements.
1.2 How Does viewLinc Work?
Every Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System needs one installation of Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise
Serv
er software on a dedicated 24x7 Windowsâ server. Depending on your network
requirements and data monitoring needs, you can install viewLinc Device Host software on
additional Windows servers.
• viewLinc Enterprise Server: Gathers data from devices, recognizes fluctuating conditions,
executes any associated alarm response actions, manages users and groups, and controls
both system-wide and user-specific settings.
• viewLinc Device Host: Acts as a data distribution point for devices located in an o-site or
remote location, forwarding device data to viewLinc Enterprise Server for processing and
storage.
1.2.1 System Components
The Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System is comprised of both software and hardware
omponents, and can be configured to use one or more optional features:
c
• Software: viewLinc Enterprise Server (for data monitoring), and device drivers (if required
to connect your devices to a network).
• Hardware: Vaisala data loggers, VaiNet access points, HMT140 Wi-Fi data loggers,
300‑series transmitters, one or more PCs with a supported Internet browser, and,
depending on how you connect the devices to your PC, various cables, Vaisala vNet or
Digi network devices.
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1.2.2
Optional Feature Requirements
Depending on the optional features you plan to use with viewLinc, you may need to c
onfigure
these additional system requirements:
• A dedicated Vaisala OPC UA Server to transfer viewLinc data to OPC UA clients.
• An account with a service provider for web delivery of SMS and/or voice notifications.
• SMS modem for standard SMS notifications
• Vaisala or third-party Modbus-enabled devices.
• Purchase of a trusted security certificate.
1.2.3 Security Requirements
viewLinc ES requires a secure end-to-end HTTPS connection to encrypt and protect data
tr
ansmitted to logged in users. Certificate and security key files (stored on the Enterprise
Server and in some cases on a client PC) are used to make the connection secure. During
viewLinc ES installation you can choose to automatically generate a viewLinc-signed
certificate or upload existing certificate files (viewLinc-signed or CA-signed/trusted).
Refer to your company's security policy to determine whether you can use
generated certificates or require trusted certficates.
For frequently asked questions about security certificates, see Security Certificate
Management Tips (page 224).
If you use purchased c
ertificates instead of viewLinc-signed certificates, see the
information in Purchased Certificate Requirements (page 11).
viewLinc-signed C
When to use For companies with network access
How to install Automatically created during
Validity Valid for up to 10 years. Valid for 2 years.
Cost Free. Cost varies/annual renewal fee.
Action required A network administrator can
10
limited to a few PCs.
vie
wLinc ES installation.
aut
omatically distribute the
certificate to network PCs. The
certificate must be installed
individually on non-network PCs.
ertificates Trusted Certificates
For companies with remote network
access needs.
Certificate request sent to a certificate
signing authority for paid validation.
Install the trusted certificate on
viewLinc ES.
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Not secure | https://
Chapter 1 – Product Overview
viewLinc-signed C
User experience Until the certificate is installed on a
If you require a trusted c
user's PC, a warning message
displays after user enters viewLinc
address.
User must acknowledge the warning
t
o access viewLinc.
ertificate but do not have one yet, during installation choose to
ertificates Trusted Certificates
When user tries to access viewLinc
om a network or remote PC, no
fr
warning appears.
automatically generate certificate files. You can replace the generated files with trusted
certificates at a later time.
More information
‣
Security Certificate Management Tips (page 224)
1.2.4 Purchased C
ertificate Requirements
When installing viewLinc, you can choose to automatically generate a viewLinc-signed
c
ertificate, or upload existing certificate files (viewLinc-signed or CA-signed/trusted).
If you use a purchased certificate, the certificate must not have a passphrase. Using a
certificate with a passphrase will result in the connection being rejected.
1.2.5 Hardware Requirements
Your Vaisala viewLinc monitoring system requires a minimum of one data logger to monitor
da
ta, and can support any combination of the following hardware components (number of
data loggers permitted is based on your viewLinc and/or Modbus license key):
• One or more Vaisala DL data loggers, RFL100-series data loggers and VaiNet access
points, HMT140-series wireless data loggers, 300-series transmitters, Vaisala or thirdparty Modbus-enabled devices.
• Optional hardware requirements:
• Additional servers to manage devices at multiple locations (running viewLinc Device
Host software or OPC UA Server software).
• Remote display terminals to provide monitoring opportunities in areas without PCs.
• Vaisala cables for connecting data loggers and setting up HMT140-series data loggers
or 300-series transmitters.
• vNet or multi-port Ethernet interface devices for connecting Vaisala DL data loggers
using an Ethernet connection.
• Patlite signal towers to issue visual and/or audible notifications.
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1.2.6 Server Requirements
Table 1 Server requirements
Property Description/Value
Availability Dedicated server available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Server management Connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
Backup solution with support for open file back
Synchronizes time with a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server
Operating system Windows Serverâ 20
19
Windows Serverâ 2019 Datacenter Edition
Windows Serverâ 2016
Windows Serverâ 2016 Datacenter Edition
Windows Serverâ 2012 R2 (64-bit)
Windowsâ 10 Enterprise (64-bit)
Virtual server support VMWare
Application disk space 350 MB
Database disk space
Network trac
Web interface protocol
Security c
ertificate for web
1)
3)
4)
200 KB/data point 2)/
day
Approx. 100 KB/minute/device
TLS 1.3
Authorized TLS certificate and key
5)
interface
Email encoding RFC 2047
Secure email protocol TLS 1.3
up
1) Not applicable to Device Host installation.
2) Data points are device channels monitoring and recording data.
3) Depends on number of devices, system configuration and type of communication devices
used.
4) viewLinc 5.1 includes software developed by the OpenSSL Project for use in the OpenSSL
Toolkit. http://www.openssl.org/
5) viewLinc-signed certificate and key can be generated during installation.
A supported Internet browser is only required on the viewLinc Enterprise Server
omputer if you plan to use it to run viewLinc.
c
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Chapter 1 – Product Overview
Table 2 Device Host Server Requirements
Property Description/Value
Availability 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Operating System Windows Serverâ 20
19
Windows Serverâ 2016
Windows Serverâ 2012 R2 (64-bit)
Windowsâ 10 (64-bit)
Disk space 2 GB
Internet browser
Google Chrome
Micr
osoftâ Edge
™
™
Table 3 Requirements based on system size
System size in data points 1 … 20 21 … 400 400+
Dedicated or shared server Either Either Dedicated
CPU 1.6 GHz dual core 1.6 GHz dual core 3.2 GHz quad core
RAM 8 GB 12 GB 16 GB
Disk space increase/year 1.5 GB/year for
20 da
ta points
15 GB/year for
200 data points
75 GB/year for
1000 data points
Continuous free disk space for reports1)2 GB 4 GB 10 GB
1) 1 month duration with 1 minute scan/sample
Table 4 Client requirements
Property Description/value
Internet browser
Google Chrome
Micr
osoftâ Edge
™
™
Computer clients Any network computer with a supported Internet browser, a
minimum 2.
4 GHz CPU, and 4 GB of RAM.
Display and tablet clients Touchscreen or mouse-operated panel with a supported
Internet browser. Must be connected to the same network as
viewLinc Enterprise Server.
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Table 5 Network ports
Default Type Used by
80 TCP Signal towers
443 TCP viewLinc web interface
502 TCP Modbus TCP-enabled devices
771 TCP vNet and multi-port Ethernet devices
950 TCP Moxa serial-to-Wi-Fi devices
6767 UDP HMT140
12500 TCP Twilio web services
12600 TCP/UDP VaiNet access points, viewLinc Enterprise Server
55000 TCP Vaisala OPC UA Server
connection with vNet or Device Host
1.2.7 Installed System Size
Depending on the number of device channels (data points) you plan to activate and monitor,
the vie
wLinc Enterprise Server should also meet the following requirements:
Table 6 Server Requirements Based on System Size
System Size viewLinc Enterprise Server Requirements
Large
Mor
e than 100 devices
(400+ channels)
Medium
Up t
o 20 devices (up to
400 channels)
Small
Less than 5 devices (<20
channels)
A dedicated machine, 3.2 GHz, Quad Core, 16 GB RAM; Sucient
HD space to support 200 KB / data point / day. For example, if
you have 400 linked device channels, you need approximately
30 GB (400 × 200 × 365) per year.
A dedicated or shared machine, 1.6 GHz, Dual Core, 12 GB RAM;
Sucient HD space to support 200 KB / data point / day. For
example, if you have 40 linked device channels, you need
approximately 3 GB (40 × 200 × 365) per year.
A dedicated or shared machine, 1.6 GHz, Dual Core, 8 GB RAM;
Sucient HD space to support 200 KB / data point / day. For
example, if you have 4 linked device channels, you need
approximately 300 MB (4 × 200 × 365) per year.
To increase the number of monitored devices on your network, make sure you
ve a license to support all the devices you need (see Help > About).
ha
14
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Chapter 1 – Product Overview
1.2.8 End User PC and Remote Display Requirements
Other machines connected to your network which have an Internet browser installed, can be
used t
o monitor devices. The machine must meet these minimum requirements:
• 2.4 GHz
• 4 GB RAM
• Google Chrome™ or Microsoft Edgeâ
1.2.9 Default Application File Locations
It is recommended that you use the default installation folders for data file s
folders may have unique security restrictions placed on them (restrictions vary between
operating systems).
Table 7 Default Installation Folders
Installed Files Default Path
Program files
Data files
C:\Program Files\Vaisala\Vaisala viewLinc
C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Vaisala\Vaisala
viewLinc
torage, as other
1.2.10 Web API and REST API Programming Interfaces
The optional Web API license enables the use of an API interface to connect to viewLinc
Enterprise Server Software without using the viewLinc ES user interface. The API interface can
be accessed by any client application capable of sending and receiving HTTP requests and
responses.
The viewLinc Web API license (includes REST API) is provided in a package that includes
reference documentation and instructions for both the Web API and REST API interfaces.
1.3 What's New
Vaisala viewLinc 5.1 provides you and your team with new integrated feature functionality to
e
xpand your network monitoring and reporting capabilities.
Table 8 New viewLinc 5.1 Features
Feature Description
Signal tower support Connect signal towers for wide-area visual and/or audible alarming
Modbus device
c
ommunication
(
specific Patlite tower models supported).
Expand your system capability by connecting Modbus-enabled
environmental measurement devices to viewLinc, such as Vaisala or thirdparty devices. Requires Modbus device license to connect non-Vaisala
Modbus devices.
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Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
Feature Description
Voice and/or SMS
tions via web
notifica
service
Vaisala OPC UA Server
in
tegration
Web API Use an HTTP application programming interface to initiate requests for
REST API update to
W
eb API license
Finnish language
support
Set up call tree notifications using a web-enabled voice call messaging
service. Sign up for an account with Twilio to allow this web service
provider to manage outgoing voice and/or SMS notifications and
incoming acknowledgements. Requires Voice and/or SMS web service
license(s).
Share viewLinc data with other applications. The Vaisala OPC UA Server is
standalone software installed on a separate server. Requires Vaisala OPC
UA Server license.
viewLinc data from third party applications. Requires viewLinc Web API
license.
REST API functionality added to the Web API license. Available starting
from viewLinc 5.1 Service Update 3.
The user interface language can be set to Finnish. The Tours tutorial
content is also available in Finnish. Available starting from viewLinc 5.1
Service Update 4.
To increase the number of monitored devices on your system, an additional
vie
wLinc license may be required. To see the remaining available device room see
Help > About.
Table 9 Key Features of viewLinc
Feature Description
VaiNet support Supports RFL100 and AP10 devices, using VaiNet wireless
Setup support Interactive tours help both new and seasoned users.
User guidance at your
fingertips
Flexible alarm notifica
Controlled access Manage access to monitored areas, system configuration or alarm
Multi-level thresholds Easily enable one or more threshold levels on one template.
Integrated software
func
tionality
Multi-language support Send reports and notifica
16
t
echnology.
User-focused design ensures more intuitive software interaction.
tions Send visual, audible, email, SMS or voice alarm notifications when
conditions you are monitoring are out of compliance or if there is a
network communication problem.
acknowledgement functions according to a user's group.
Configure data logger calibration duration and other important
device settings in viewLinc, without requiring additional software.
world in one of nine languages (EN, FR, DE, ES, PT, SV, FI, JA, ZH).
tions to your team members around the
Page 19
Chapter 1 – Product Overview
Feature Description
Wireless device discovery All new wireless devices connected to your network are automatically
System security All users who log in to viewLinc require a secure connection. During
Audit trail security Store complete audit trail records for reporting compliance with 21
Monitoring visibility Add site maps to the dashboard to easily identify your devices and
Easy alarm response Create predefined comments that can be used to provide a quick
Data monitoring View real-time data in a customizable, graphical format.
Global reporting Generate reports on historical data and alarm reports according to
Ecient data logger
maintenance
More information
‣
A
dding Modbus Devices (page 213)
‣
Web Service for SMS and Voice Alarm Notifications (page 99)
‣
Vaisala OPC UA Server (page 143)
overed by viewLinc.
disc
ins
tallation you can upload existing security certificate and key files,
or automatically generate viewLinc-signed certificate and key files.
CFR Part 11 and other regulatory and accreditation requirements.
the ar
eas where they operate.
response to alarm notifications.
user
-specified language.
Swap a device for calibration or replacement purposes without
breaking the data audit trail.
1.3.1 What's New for Upgrade Users
Here is a review of important enhancements and changes from viewLinc 4.3 and earlier.
Table 10 Enhancements
Feature Description
Reusable notifica
Automatic TLS certificate
generation
Easy access to licensed feature
s
tatus
tions Separate alarm notification templates can be applied to device
alarm and threshold alarm settings. These templates define the
type of notification to initiate when an alarm is activated
(email/SMS/command/voice call), who to notify, and whether to
delay or repeat notifications.
When you install viewLinc you can automatically generate the
certificates required to keep your system secure. For more
information see Security Requirements (page 10).
Access current licensing information, such as the number of
supported devices on your network, in the About window (Help
> About).
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Feature Description
Simplified ac
cess control To ensure greater control over user access to dierent functional
areas of viewLinc, rights and permissions are now only assigned
to groups.
Verified sit
e security All new installations of viewLinc require that you provide a
security certificate and key file. During viewLinc Enterprise
Server software installation, you can install existing certificate
and key files, or automatically generate certificate and key files.
Expanded email support viewLinc now includes support for both IMAP and POP3 email
settings.
Improved graphing options Create data trends with up to 16 Locations and 4 measurement
t
ypes.
Distributed system alarm
notifications
Never miss a notification—configure system alarm notifications to
include distribution to members of the viewLinc Administrators
group.
User-friendly terminology Zones and Locations are collectively referred to as Sites; On-
demand r
eports are now Quick Reports. To learn about all
terminology changes, refer to the Glossary.
Table 11 Important Changes for Upgrade Users from 4.3 or earlier
Feature Description
Overview window, Getting
S
tarted
The Getting Started tab in the Overview window displays links to
online Help in three categories, Set up, Learn, Use.
Devices When new wireless devices are recognized on your network, you
ar
e notified on the viewLinc desktop automatically.
To learn more, see Accepting Wireless Devices (page 48).
Zones and Locations Management of Zones and Locations is performed in Sites
Manager
. To avoid confusion between device and Location
descriptions, you can now only use drag and drop functionality to
link Locations within Zones.
To learn more, see Create Zones and Locations (page 63).
Access Control Permissions are only assigned to groups. For users who had
permissions assigned in an earlier version, those permissions are
still valid (legacy permissions); however, it is recommended that
you remove user permissions and add the user to a group with
the required permission level. Configure Custom Thresholds, is
now Configure Alarms, and Hide permission is now managed by
removal of View permission. New permissions are granted at the
Zone level.
To learn more, see Applying Group Permission to Zones
(page 128).
18
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Chapter 1 – Product Overview
Feature Description
Users and Groups Assign a user-preferred language for receiving alarm
tions and reports.
notifica
Rights are now assigned only to groups. For users who had rights
assigned in an earlier version, those rights are still valid (legacy
rights); however, it is recommended that you remove user rights
and add the user to a group with the required rights.
A group may contain only one user.
Manage Comments is now included in the Manage S
Manage Threshold Templates is now included in Manage Alarm
Templates right. Manage Locations is renamed Manage Sites.
To learn more, see Groups and Users (page 74).
Alarm Templates Alarm notifica
Threshold Alarm Templates:
device alarm templates, and are stored as independent alarm
notification templates. Alarm notification templates can be
added to a Location's device alarm settings, and to a Location's
assigned threshold alarm settings. In Device and Threshold Alarm
templates, the alarm color is identified as the alarm priority:
•
• Medium
• Low
• Information
T
o learn more, see Alarm Templates (page 81).
•
All threshold alarms support up to 5 thresholds.
• All upgraded single-level thresholds can remain single or be set
up to include additional threshold levels.
• All threshold settings are captured in threshold alarm
templates. If you had created private thresholds for specific
Locations they are converted to threshold alarm templates on
upgrade.
tion details have been removed from threshold and
High
ystem right;
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Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
Feature Description
Alarm Notifica
• Alarm notification templates identify who gets notified in the
event of an alarm condition, when the notification is sent, and
how it is delivered (email, SMS, command).
• If you had notification settings assigned to specific
Locations (private settings), notification details are saved as
alarm notification templates. The new alarm notification
templates are applied to the original Locations.
• If you had notification settings assigned to any alarm or
threshold templates, they are separated and stored as
independent alarm notification templates.
tion Templates:
Embedded alarm messages and comments
ar
e not saved on upgrade. Prior to upgrade,
save them as predefined comments and
then apply them to Location threshold
settings or device alarm settings.
• Pop-up alarm notifica
• Email addresses to non-viewLinc users are removed on
upgrade.
Create new user pr
tions are no longer supported.
ofiles in viewLinc to save
external email recipients.
Device Alarm Templates are now applied and managed on
Email and SMS Content:
System Preferences System alarm, email and SMS settings are c
Views Find all your views in the new Ov
ocations.
L
If you specify an alarm message or comment for auto-generated
system alarm notifications or threshold alarm notifications, the
content is included automatically in the associated default email
templates and can be included in custom email or SMS templates.
To learn more, see Notification Content (page 106).
System Preferences window.
To learn more, see System Preferences (page 109).
erview window. All users have
access to and can create their own views in the Views Manager
window. Manage Views right is required to share a view with
others. Note that a pinned view is now a default view.
To learn more, see Your Views (page 134).
onfigured in the
20
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Chapter 1 – Product Overview
Feature Description
Reports To review changes in report output content and format, see
Trends Trends can be built in Sit
Terminology Terminology changes:
More information
‣
W
hat's New (page 15)
samples in the R
Email addresses to non-viewLinc users are no longer permitted,
and are removed on upgrade.
All users can create reports and assign ownership to other users.
Ownership allows other users to modify or share a report.
To learn more, see Reporting (page 175).
Set threshold line color in a threshold alarm template.
To learn more, see Building Trends (page 169).
•
Sites = a collection of Locations and Zones
• On-demand reports = Quick Reports
• Deadband = Alarm o margin
• Access Control List = Permissions
• Permissions Inspector = Permissions Viewer
To learn about all terminology changes, refer to the Glossary.
eports window.
es or Views Manager windows.
Watch a Tour
1.3.2
Learn about key changes with the redesigned viewLinc desktop or discover new viewLinc
func
tionality. There are two types of tours available:
• Orientation Tours: Tour steps describe important functions.
• Task Tours: Tour steps allow you to complete specific viewLinc tasks.
Watch for the icon
A
vailable tours can be found in Help > Tours.
.
Tours are available based on your assigned access Rights.
1.4 Device Connection Options
Your viewLinc Enterprise Server can support a combination of device connections and setup
configurations.
21
Page 24
Firewall
T 25 °C
RH 40 %
Wi-Fi Data Logger
HMT140
Mobile Users
viewLinc
Enterprise Server
Network Users
PoE or
DC Power
DL Data Logger
connected with vNet
DL Data Loggers connected
with Multi-port Ethernet Device
PoE or
DC Power
VaiNet Wireless RFL100
Data Loggers
Modbus Devices
AP10 Access Point
VaiNet
Wireless
PoE or
DC Power
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
1.4.1 Ways to Connect Hardware
How you connect devices to your network is a very important administrative decision. It is
pos
sible to use a mix of the following connection methods depending on your system
requirements.
For specific ins
tallation and configuration information, see the device user guide.
22
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1.4.2 Using Wireless Devices
PoE or
DC Power
viewLinc
Enterprise Server
Access Point
VaiNet Data Logger
VaiNet
Wireless
Wi-Fi Data Logger
HMT140 Series
Wi-Fi Router
T 25 °C
RH 40 %
viewLinc
Enterprise Server
VaiNet RFL100 Series
Chapter 1 – Product Overview
RFL100 series da
ta loggers connnect using Vaisala VaiNet protocol. To use VaiNet data loggers
in your network, you require an AP10 access point. Refer to the RFL100 and AP10 device
documentation for complete setup and configuration instructions.
Connected and configured RFL100 devices are automatically recognized by
viewLinc.
HMT140 Series
HMT140 series da
ta loggers connect using Wi-Fi protocol. To add HMT140 series data loggers
to your network, you will need an HMT140 configuration cable and HMT140 Utility software
(shipped with the device). Refer to the HMT140 device documentation for complete setup and
configuration instructions.
Connected and c
viewLinc.
onfigured HMT140 devices are automatically recognized by
23
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DL Data Logger
co
nnected with vNet device
Optional
PoE or
DC Power
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
300 Series Transmitter
300 series tr
ansmitters connect using a WLAN or LAN interface. To add HMT300 series data
loggers to your network refer to the device documentation for complete installation
instructions.
Connected and c
onfigured 300-series transmitters are manually added to
viewLinc.
More information
‣
A
dding Access Point Hosts (page 47)
‣
Accepting Wireless Devices (page 48)
‣
Adding 300 Series Transmitters (page 50)
1.4.3 Using vNet Devices
vNet Power-over-Ethernet devices are 802.3af compliant and work with both end-point and
mid-span s
loggers connected with vNet devices (requires vNet device drivers provided with vNet
devices). For information about connecting Vaisala data loggers to your network using vNet
devices, see the vNet User's Guide.
ystems. viewLinc Aware automatically detects and configures DL series data
More information
‣
Disc
‣
Enabling or Disabling viewLinc Aware (page 115)
1.4.4 Using Single or Multi-Port Ethernet Device Connectors
You can connect Vaisala DL series data loggers and Modbus devices to your viewLinc network
using single- or multi-port E
24
If you are installing vNet devices on the same subnet as viewLinc, device drivers
are installed automatically when you enable viewLinc Aware functionality.
overing Networked Devices (page 48)
thernet connection devices (such as Digi or Moxa devices).
Page 27
Optional
PoE or DC
power
Data loggers connected
with multiport device
DL Data Loggers
connected with USB
or Serial Cables
Chapter 1 – Product Overview
When you set up viewLinc for the fir
st time, viewLinc automatically detects and configures
Ethernet-connected DL data loggers; Modbus devices must be added manually. DL data
loggers can also be added with the Discover Devices function, or use the Add New Device
procedure. For complete network installation instructions, refer to your Ethernet product
documentation
Obtain a reserved (recommended) or static IP address for your Ethernet device
om your IT department, unless your networking policy requires you to reserve IP
fr
addresses using DHCP.
More information
‣
Disc
overing Networked Devices (page 48)
‣
Adding Modbus Devices (page 213)
‣
Adding Devices Manually (page 49)
1.4.5 Using USB Ports
Connect Vaisala DL series data loggers or Modbus RTU devices directly to viewLinc Device
Hos
t servers using a Vaisala USB-to-logger cable connected to a USB port.
1. Install USB drivers on each server used to connect devices.
2.
Connect the Vaisala device to a Vaisala USB-to-logger cable.
25
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DL Data Loggers
connected with USB
or Serial Cables
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
3. Connect the Vaisala USB-to-logger cable to your viewLinc Device Host (ensure the
c
omputer is attached to your network). You only need to install drivers once on each
machine to which devices are connected.
Repeat these steps for all devices. USB-connected devices are recognized automatically in
viewLinc, or can be discovered manually.
More information
‣
Discovering Networked Devices (page 48)
‣
Adding Devices Manually (page 49)
1.4.6 Using Serial Ports
Connect Vaisala DL series data loggers or Modbus RTU devices directly to viewLinc Device
Hos
t servers using a Vaisala serial-to-logger cable connected to a serial COM port.
1. Connect the Vaisala device to a Vaisala serial-to-logger cable.
2. Connect the Vaisala serial-to-logger cable to your viewLinc Device Host server (ensure
Repeat these steps for all devices. Serial-connected devices are recognized automatically in
viewLinc, or can be discovered manually.
More information
‣
‣
1.5 Version Information
This document provides information for installing, c
viewLinc Enterprise Server software. This document is intended for both viewLinc
administrators and users.
26
the computer is attached to your network).
Discovering Networked Devices (page 48)
Adding Devices Manually (page 49)
onfiguring, and operating the Vaisala
Page 29
Chapter 1 – Product Overview
• Administrators: Learn how to install and c
onfigure viewLinc Enterprise Server software
and its associated components, and support users with ongoing system administration
tasks.
• Users: Learn how to complete common viewLinc tasks, such as viewing and monitoring
device readings across your network.
Table 12 Document Versions
Document Code Date Description
M212315EN-B October 2020 This document. REST API and Finnish language support
M212315EN-A October 2019 First version.
added, authen
enhancements, clarified purchased certificate requirements,
minor corrections and updates.
tication security and user account control
1.6 Related Manuals
Table 13 Related Manuals
Document Code Name
M212316EN Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System Setup Guide
B211832EN Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server Software Datasheet
M211700EN Vaisala vNet PoE Network Interface User Guide
M211821EN Vaisala VaiNet Access Point AP10 Quick Guide
M211822EN Vaisala VaiNet Wireless Data Logger RFL100 Quick Guide
M211860EN Vaisala VaiNet Access Point AP10 User Guide
M211861EN Vaisala VaiNet Wireless Data Logger RFL100 User Guide
M212325EN Vaisala OPC UA Server User Guide
1.7 Documentation Conventions
This document uses the following conventions:
•
Menu options, items you select, and the names of tabs, windows, and buttons are shown
in bold.
• A sequence of menu item selections is indicated by a list separated by an arrow. For
example: “In viewLinc, select Help > Tours”
• Keys on the keyboard are shown in CAPS.
• Vaisala data loggers, device hosts and access points are all devices.
The lock icon indicates the rights required to perform a viewLinc task.
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Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
Note highligh
CAUTION!
follow instructions carefully at this point, the product could be damaged or
important data could be lost.
Tip giv
ts important information on using the product.
Caution w
es information for using the product more eciently.
arns you of a potential hazard. If you do not read and
1.8 Trademarks
Vaisalaâ is a r
Android™ is a trademark of Google LLC.
Appleâ and iPhoneâ are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Chrome™ is a trademark of Google Inc.
Microsoftâ, Windowsâ, Excelâ, and Edgeâ are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
All other product or company names that may be mentioned in this publication are trade
names, trademarks, or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
egistered trademark of Vaisala Oyj.
1.9 Training
For new users of viewLinc, or those who might need to refresh their knowledge, Vaisala
pr
ovides both remote or onsite training, and access to a series of eLearning videos you can
view at your convenience.
For customers with active support plans, see www.vaisala.com/viewLinc-eLearning.
To learn more about Vaisala Services, contact Vaisala Technical Support at
helpdesk@vaisala.com.
28
Page 31
Install viewLinc Enterprise Server
Install access points
Discover and accept devices
Setup complete
Setup checklist
Set system preferences
Create zones and locations
Define alarm templates
Add groups and users
Configure viewLinc Enterprise Server
Install devices
Test system
1
2
3
4
5
Install data loggers
Install other devices
Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
2. Setup and Installation
Each viewLinc monitoring system installation is unique. Use the setup checklist to identify your
specific sit
monitoring system components.
2.1 Setup Roadmap
e requirements and ensure an ecient and successful installation of the viewLinc
If you require assistance with the setup of your system, the Vaisala Technical
Support t
eam is ready to assist you, free of charge 1) at helpdesk@vaisala.com.
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Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
2.2 Setup Checklist
viewLinc Enterprise Server
A system administrator is available to help me with network and server c
A dedicated network server is allocated to run viewLinc Enterprise Server 24x7. I know its
IP addr
ess and hostname, and it meets minimum installation requirements.
The server's network connection is to a secure network, and the network type has been
opriately set on the server (Private or Domain, not Public).
appr
I know the address of the Network Time Protocol (NTP) server in the network.
My laptop or workstation meets minimum client requirements.
I know where the program files and vie
in place to make sure the files are recoverable in case of server failure.
I have the required security c
generate a security certificate and key during installation.
I have the USB drive that contains the viewLinc setup files and lic
Devices
I have a plan that lists device serial numbers, mounting and installation information.
IP addresses are allocated for my HMT330 series transmitters and data loggers' network
c
onnections (DHCP address reservations or static IPs).
Planned locations of wired devices are within 180 cm (6 feet) distance of power outlets.
I know if drilling or door access is required for probes (for example, freezer installation).
ertificate and key files, or have the information needed to
wLinc database should be stored. A backup system is
onfiguration.
ense key.
Network
Ethernet network drops with RJ45 jacks are installed and tested at each location where a
wir
ed network connection is needed.
A Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector or switch provides operating power at network drops
wher
e a PoE powered device will be installed.
(Optional) I have installed a supported modem for SMS notifica
(Optional) I have an account set up with a voice/SMS web notifica
(Twilio), and an internet-accessible port available.
1) Software product purchase entitles you to basic support, which is limited to hardware and
s
oftware installation assistance. Comprehensive support is available through the purchase of a
support plan.
30
tions.
tion service provider
Page 33
Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
Optional License Keys
I have the license key(s) required to enable one or more of the following features:
Voice web service
eb service
SMS w
Modbus devices (non-Vaisala)
Vaisala OPC UA Server
eb API
W
2.3 Installation
All viewLinc monitoring systems require the installation of viewLinc Enterprise Server software
on a local or remote dedicated server. If you are setting up a medium or large monitoring
system using several devices, it is recommended that you install viewLinc Device Host software
on additional dedicated servers for greater network stability and flexibility.
• viewLinc Enterprise Server software: This installation software is required on the
dedicated Windows server, to monitor and administer all devices connected to it, wired
and wireless. It defines the system language, data storage paths, and monitoring
conditions.
• viewLinc Device Host software: This installation software can be installed on additional,
dedicated servers. It allows automatic communication with the viewLinc Enterprise Server
computer while oering protection from bandwidth and network communication issues.
It provides you with greater flexibility when managing device configuration across a large
network.
Refer to the Device Host and Enterprise Server requirements for dierent installation sizes, to
determine if your system is better suited to one or both software installations.
During viewLinc Enterprise Server software installation you are required to either
our company's existing security certificate and key files, or generate
upload y
viewLinc-signed files.
More information
‣
Har
dware Requirements (page 11)
‣
Server Requirements (page 12)
‣
Installed System Size (page 14)
‣
Security Requirements (page 10)
2.3.1
Installing viewLinc Enterprise Server Software
If you have a previous version of viewLinc software installed, see Ins
an Existing Server (page 34) or Installing viewLinc - Upgrade on a New Server (page 35).
1. Ensure you have completed the Setup Checklist and have recorded the serial number
from your viewLinc USB.
talling viewLinc - Upgrade
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Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
2. On the dedicated viewLinc Enterprise Server, insert the viewLinc USB and run
viewLincInstall.exe, if it does not s
tart automatically.
To install viewLinc software on a remote server (and not the local computer),
c
opy viewLincInstall.exe from the USB drive to the destination
server.
3. Select the installation language. This language setting is used in the wizard and is used as
the vie
wLinc browser, report and notification default language. The default language can
be changed after installation is complete.
Users can change the browser language at log in. The language used in their
eports and notifications is set in each user's profile.
r
4. Start the installation wizard.
. Enter your license key.
5
6. Select the installation package. All viewLinc monitoring systems require Vaisala viewLinc
Enterprise Server. If your system will support a large installation with several devices,
rerun the install wizard to install viewLinc Device Host software on additional dedicated
servers.
7. Accept the Vaisala General License Conditions and BerkleyDB License Agreement.
8. Accept the default installation path for the viewLinc software, or specify a new
destination folder (location must have at least 2 GB of free disk space).
9. Accept the default installation path for viewLinc data, or specify a new destination folder
(location must have at least 10 GB of free disk space).
10. Choose your certificate and security key files:
Upload a purchased c
ertificate and key (trusted)
Choose this option if you already have the files and they are available on your
network.
Generate a c
ertificate and key (viewLinc-signed)
Enter your site and company details (if you plan to use a trusted certificate, the
Hostname must be a fully qualified domain name, such as
viewLincESname.yourcompanyname.com). The installation wizard
automatically generates a viewLinc-signed certificate and key file. These files are
installed on the server the first time the admin user logs into viewLinc. You can
replace the generated files with trusted files at any time.
11. Select Ins
32
For frequently asked questions about security c
Certificate Management Tips (page 224).
tall to complete the installation wizard.
ertificates, see Security
Page 35
Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
When installation is complete you can set up your devices or begin viewLinc c
(see Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System Setup Guide).
If you are ready to start viewLinc configuration, double-click the viewLinc shortcut icon on
your desktop.
More information
‣
Hardware Requirements (page 11)
‣
Security Certificate Management Tips (page 224)
onfiguration
2.3.2 Installing viewLinc on a Device Host Server
You can also set up additional computers as Device Hosts. This option allows for greater
fle
xibility when managing devices, reduces the bandwidth required to communicate from
server to device, and reduces the chance of network interference.
You may need to adjust your fir
exceptions. Contact Vaisala customer support if you require assistance.
1. Insert the viewLinc USB and run viewLincInstall.exe.
2.
Select the installation language.
3. Start the installation wizard.
4. Accept the Vaisala and BerkleyDB license agreements.
5. Enter the license key number, found on the USB package.
6. Choose a destination for the viewLinc program files.
7. Select Device Host.
8. Select Install.
9. When the application is finished installing, select Finish.
With all necessary viewLinc components installed, you can now use any machine on the
network to log in to viewLinc to monitor conditions.
ewall settings to specify public/private domain
All users can access viewLinc from their own PC or mobile device, without having
to install any software; however, their PC must be running a supported Internet
browser, they require the IP address where viewLinc is installed, and must be set
up as a user in viewLinc.
More information
‣
A
dding Device Hosts (page 46)
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2.3.3 Installing viewLinc - Upgrade an Existing Server
To ensure a successful upgrade of your viewLinc software on an existing server, make sure your
s
ystem meets the viewLinc system requirements, and review the new features and functional
changes introduced in viewLinc. See What's New for Upgrade Users (page 17).
Before you start the viewLinc software upgrade, export a copy of your event log.
fter upgrade, export the event log again to become familiar with messaging
A
improvements.
1. Ensure you have completed the Setup Checklist and have recorded the license key that is
included with the vie
2. Verify that the current installation of viewLinc is version 3.6.1 or higher.
3. Back up your current application data directory .
• viewLinc 3.6x default directory: ...\Program files\Veriteq Instruments
\viewLinc\
• viewLinc 4.x default directory: ...\Public Documents\Vaisala\Vaisala
Veriteq viewLinc\ (exclude the \debug folder and any files named log
\watchdog*.*
4. If your backup application does not support open database backup, stop viewLinc
Watchdog and viewLinc Enterprise Server services:
a. On your Windows server, select Start > Control Panel > Administrative Tools >
Services (this path may vary depending on your Windows version and settings).
b. Right-click on the service (viewLinc Enterprise Server, viewLinc Watchdog), then
select Stop.
5. On the existing viewLinc server, open the viewLinc.cfg file (found in the \config
subfolder) and set the level entry to debug (in the [logging] section), level =
debug.
CAUTION!
system administrators.
6. On the existing viewLinc server, insert the viewLinc USB drive and run
viewLincInstall.exe, if it does not run automatically.
7. Select the installation language. This language setting is used in the wizard and is used as
the viewLinc browser, report and notification default language. The default language can
be changed after installation is complete.
8. Accept the Vaisala and BerkleyDB license agreements.
9. Enter the viewLinc license key.
wLinc USB drive.
Modifying the .cfg file should only be perf
ormed by qualified
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Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
10. Select your security c
installed certificate and key files, upload new certificate and key files, or automatically
generate viewLinc-signed certificate and key files. To learn more about security and
certificate files, see Security Certificate Management Tips (page 224).
11. Review the install settings and click Install.
12. Click Finish.
13. Wait 20 minutes to an hour for viewLinc to upgrade the database. viewLinc will not be
available during this time. There will be a gap in the Events log reflecting the duration of
the upgrade.
14. If your network includes viewLinc Device Hosts, run the install wizard to install viewLinc
Device Host software on each device host server.
15. On the viewLinc Enterprise Server, double-click the desktop icon to start viewLinc in a
supported browser. It may take a few minutes to start. If a security warning appears, click
OK to proceed. For more information about certificates see Security Requirements
(page 10).
16. Log in with your administrator credentials, such as admin/admin.
17. Open Sites Manager to verify your Location data is available.
18. In System Preferences on the General tab, set System log to Basic.
There will be a gap in the events log r
More information
‣
Har
dware Requirements (page 11)
‣
What's New for Upgrade Users (page 17)
‣
Installation Tips (page 224)
‣
Security Certificate Management Tips (page 224)
ertificate and key files. You can choose to keep the currently
eflecting the duration of the upgrade.
2.3.4 Installing viewLinc - Upgrade on a New Server
If you are upgrading viewLinc on an existing server, see Ins
Existing Server (page 34).
1. Ensure you have completed the Setup Checklist and have recorded the license key that is
included with the viewLinc USB drive.
2. Verify that the current installation of viewLinc is version 3.6.1 or higher.
talling viewLinc - Upgrade an
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3. Make a copy of the application data directory on the old server and store it in a secure
ne
twork location.
• viewLinc 3.6x default directory: ...\Program files\Veriteq Instruments
\viewLinc\
• viewLinc 4.x default directory: ...\Public Documents\Vaisala\Vaisala
Veriteq viewLinc\ (exclude the \debug folder and any files named log
\watchdog*.*
4. On the new viewLinc server, insert the viewLinc USB drive and run
viewLincInstall.exe.
5. Select the installation language. This language setting is used in the wizard and is used as
the viewLinc browser, report and notification default language. The default language can
be changed after installation is complete.
6. Accept the Vaisala and BerkleyDB license agreements.
7. Enter the viewLinc license key.
8. Select your security certificate and key files. You can choose to keep the currently
installed certificate and key files, upload new certificate and key files, or automatically
generate new certificate and key files. To learn more about security and certificate files,
see Security Certificate Management Tips (page 224).
9. Review the install settings and click Install.
10. Click Finish.
11. If your network includes viewLinc Device Hosts, run the install wizard to install viewLinc
Device Host software on each device host server.
12. On the new viewLinc Enterprise Server, double-click the desktop icon to start viewLinc in
a supported browser. It may take a few minutes to start. If a security warning appears,
click OK to proceed.
13. Log in with viewLinc 5.1 administrator credentials, admin/viewL!ncAdm1n.
14. In System Preferences on the General tab, set System log to Detailed.
15. On the viewLinc Enterprise Server, stop all viewLinc services (select Start > Control Panel
> Administrative Tools > Services. This path may vary depending on your Windows
version and settings); right-click on each service, then select Stop).
16. From the stored network location, copy the backup \db and \log folders and replace the
\db and \log folders in:C:\Users\Public Documents\Vaisala\Vaisala
viewLinc\.
17. On the viewLinc Enterprise Server, restart viewLinc services, then wait 20 minutes to an
hour for viewLinc to upgrade the database. viewLinc will not be available during this time.
Do not stop or restart services during this period. There will be a gap in the Events log
reflecting the duration of the upgrade.
18. Open Sites Manager to verify your Location data is available.
19. In System Preferences on the General tab, set System log to Basic.
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More information
‣
Sec
urity Certificate Management Tips (page 224)
2.4 Install Devices
2.4.1 Install Access Points
Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
See de
vice-specific documentation for
detailed instructions.
If you are upgrading an existing system
without adding new devices, you can skip
this section.
Create a device installation
plan t
o keep track of data
logger serial numbers and
installation locations.
Set up your V
• They are able to connect to the Ethernet network
• They have the IP address or hostname of at least one NTP server they
can access
• Their VaiNet channel number is set
• They have the IP address or hostname of viewLinc Enterprise Server
• They are in installation mode so that they can connect new VaiNet
data loggers to the system
If you have new WLAN access points, configure their network and
wireless settings.
When your wireless access points are set up, install them at their planned
loca
tions.
aiNet access points so that:
2.4.2 Install Data Loggers and Transmitters
Set up your da
installation.
If you have Vaisala vNet PoE Data Logger Interfaces for your wired data
loggers, follow vNet documentation to connect and configure them.
Mount the data loggers and transmitters at their planned locations.
ta loggers and transmitters so that they are ready for
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You can install many other types of devices to a viewLinc Monitoring System. See
wLinc User Guide for instructions on how to make use of these devices:
vie
• viewLinc device hosts for connecting devices on a remote location
• Measurement devices with Modbus RTU or Modbus TCP/IP output
• Signal towers for visual and audible alarm status recognition
• Remote display terminals for viewing data
Log in to viewLinc
2.5
You can log in to viewLinc from any PC with a supported Internet browser.
1.
Double-click the desktop icon or type the server's IP address and port in a web browser
address field. Your administrator provides the correct IP address. For example, https://
computername: [portnumber]. If no port number is specified, 443 is used by
default.
Save this address to your browser favorites list or set it up as your homepage
o easily access viewLinc from your browser.
t
2. On the viewLinc login screen, select the language you want to use for viewLinc display.
hen a new language is selected, the page will automatically refresh and update
W
accordingly.
To save your display language setting, ensure that your browser is not set to
omatically delete cookies upon exit. To set a default language for reports
aut
and notifications that are sent to you, set your preferred language in your
user profile.
3. Type your username and password.
•
The first time the viewLinc system administrator logs in, type the default
administrator username and password, admin/viewL!ncAdm1n.
For security purposes, it is important to change the default admin user
sword as soon as possible.
pas
• If you are a member of the A
logging in to viewLinc, a brief setup tour starts automatically. Complete the tour to
familiarize yourself with the main setup requirements.
• If you are not an Administrators group member and this is the first time you are
logging in to viewLinc, watch the Welcome tour, Using viewLinc, to familiarize
yourself with viewLinc.
38
dministrators group and this is the first time you are
Page 41
New devices (3)
Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
After you complete or exit a tour, the viewLinc Ov
page.
More information
‣
Adding Users (page 77)
‣
Groups and Users (page 197)
2.6
Discover and Accept Devices
1. Open the viewLinc Enterprise Server user interface by double-clicking the desktop icon
, or by entering the server's IP address and port in a web browser's address field.
2.
Log in to viewLinc Enterprise Server as the default administrator user (username, admin,
password, viewL!ncAdm1n).
It is recommended that you change the default administrator password
immedia
tely after logging in to ensure site security. Remember to record the
new password in a safe location.
3. If this is the fir
Complete the tour to familiarize yourself with system setup.
4. When viewLinc detects new devices, New Devices text appears at the top of the screen.
Click it to open the New Devices window.
5. Compare the list of new devices to your device installation plan to verify that all your
devices have been found. In the Accept column, select each device you want to add.
6. Select Save to register the selected devices with your viewLinc Enterprise Server.
st time logging in as the admin user, a brief setup tour starts automatically.
erview window displays the Getting Started
Data loggers must be accepted or added
t
o the system before their data can be
collected and used.
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7. Open the Sit
Devices tree, verify that all of your devices are now listed.
2.7 Configuring vie
After installing, accepting or adding devices, you are ready to c
Enterprise Server to meet site-specific monitoring needs. Several interactive tours are available
from the viewLinc desktop Help > Tours menu:
1. viewLinc Enterprise Server configuration
•
• Add groups and users
• Add and apply alarm templates
• Set system preferences
es Manager window and select the Hosts and Devices tab. On the Hosts and
• If none of your devices are listed, check that network tr
used by viewLinc (for example, 12600, 771, and 6767) is not blocked
by a firewall.
• If some devices are missing, make sure they are configured, powered
on, and connected to the network. Refer to the device-specific
documentation for troubleshooting assistance.
• If the automatic discovery is not finding all of the devices, refer to the
viewLinc User Guide for instructions on how to add or discover
devices manually.
ac to ports
wLinc Enterprise Server
onfigure the viewLinc
Create Zones and Locations
Use the Planning W
• Names for your monitored sites (Zones and Locations)
• Users, their assigned groups, rights and permissions
• Alarm thresholds required for dierent Locations
• Alarm notification delivery methods (email/SMS/command/voice),
and notification escalation paths
orksheet to define:
2. Optional setup tasks
•
Assign permissions to groups
• Set up schedules for alarms and notification periods, and report generation
• Create predefined comments
• Define views
• Add signal towers or remote displays
• Set up voice and/or SMS web services
• Connect to Vaisala OPC UA Server
3. Optional installation verification tasks:
• System test
• Validate system
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Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
Online tours are available for each c
onfiguration step (see Help > Tours).
2.7.1 viewLinc Planning Worksheet
Taking the time to evaluate and define y
your team with a more secure and easy to maintain monitoring system. Review this worksheet
to make sure you have the information required to configure viewLinc, then complete the
viewLinc Enterprise Server setup steps.
Zones and Locations (Sites Manager)
Define a naming c
(1 device channel = 1 Location)
1.
2.
3.
4.
Create Zones to organize areas with many Locations (optional).
1.
2.
onvention for each area being monitored with one device channel.
our company's monitoring needs will provide you and
Groups and Users
Name your groups, and identify the rights to be assigned to each group.
Group name/rights:
Group name/rights:
List your users and the group(s) to which they will be assigned.
Users in the default Administrators group (all rights):
Users in the default Everyone group (Manage Events right):
Users in __________________ group:
Users in __________________ group:
(Optional) For Vaisala OPC UA Server, name of dedicated user and a dedicated group:
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Threshold Alarm Settings (Alarm Templates)
Record the threshold settings needed for each Location. (High-High, High, Low, Low-Low,
te of Change, Alarm O Margin).
Ra
Location 1:
Location 2:
Location 3:
tification Settings (Alarm Templates)
Alarm No
Identify the users or groups to be notified in the e
vent of a threshold alarm, when the
notification should be issued, how it will be delivered (email, SMS, command, or voice call).
Name:
Delay:
1st notice sent via:
2nd notice sent via:
Repeat?
Frequency:
(Optional) Voice call tree:
1.
Username:
_________________________________________________________________
2. Username:
_________________________________________________________________
3. Username:
_________________________________________________________________
4. Username:
_________________________________________________________________
General Settings (System Preferences)
Select remote alarm acknowledgment method(s): email, SMS (web service or modem),
and/
or voice call acknowledgments. Requires set up of settings for enabled
acknowledgement method(s).
Enable and then create schedules if Location monitoring/alarm acknowledgement is
r
equired for certain time periods, or if dierent groups will receive dierent alarm
notifications.
Enable audible alarming for browsers. User pr
ofiles must be set to allow audible alarms
when they are logged in.
Define displa
y of temperature units and value for MKT.
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Chapter 2 – Setup and Installation
General Settings (System Preferences)
Determine whether to use device and channel descriptions in viewLinc , or create longer
descriptions (aliases
) in viewLinc.
Select the default calibration duration (default 12 months). Reminder notifica
based on this value.
Determine DL data logger lock settings (automatic or disabled) to add another layer of
urity.
sec
Enable and then create pre-configured comments for your users to add when responding to
alarm conditions.
If you are using vNets, save connection time with viewLinc Aware functionality.
For multilingual companies, determine the language to use for system notifica
Email Settings (System Preferences)
Required: Your IT network manager's email address to receive all system alarm email
tions.
notifica
An available email address that will be used to send viewLinc notifica
tions.
SMTP server address, port number, account username, and password.
POP3 server address, port number, account username, and password (optional).
(Optional) SMS Settings (System Preferences)
Select method of SMS delivery, via modem or with a web service (Twilio).
If using an SMS Modem:
onfigure modem to network
• C
• Specify modem settings: port/baud rate/SIM card PIN number (if required)
If using an SMS web service:
• Set up Twilio account
• Specify account settings: account SID, authentication token, phone number, and viewLinc
URL
tions are sent
tions.
(Optional) Voice Settings (System Preferences)
Set up Twilio account (www.twilio.com)
Specify web service account settings (received from Twilio):
• account SID
• authentication token
• phone number
• viewLinc URL
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System Alarms (System Preferences)
Mobile number and email address for your designated IT network manager.
Additional information for system-generated validation alarms: priority, delay, message,
omments.
c
System Test
2.8
After all viewLinc c
steps to ensure your system is running smoothly and securely:
• Verify notification functionality (email/SMS/voice).
• Ensure all devices are calibrated.
• Generate a Location History report to verify that linked Locations are reporting data.
• Review the Events window to verify that changes to the system generate an event in
viewLinc.
If you are running viewLinc in a GxP environment, you may require validation testing.
More information
‣
Device Calibration (page 217)
‣
Tracking Events (page 164)
‣
Creating Location History Reports (page 181)
onfiguration and device setup activities are complete, follow these simple
2.9 Validate your System
viewLinc is ideal for GxP/FDA-regulated applications and environments that contain highv
alue products. If you are required to maintain bullet-proof environmental monitoring methods
and documentation, a viewLinc validation can ensure you receive a stamp of approval during
the most stringent audits and inspections.
A GxP-compliant Installation Qualification and Operation Qualification protocol document
(IQOQ) is available for purchase from Vaisala. It is used to ensure your system is installed
correctly, and performs as expected. IQOQ testing must be performed by a qualified
technician or Vaisala Field Services. Learn more at www.vaisala.com/contact-us.
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ibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet
dolore magna
Chapter 3 – Device Management
3. Device Management
Data is collected from Vaisala monitoring devices connected directly to your network - wired
eless data loggers and transmitters. Additional devices may be connected to your
or wir
network, such as Vaisala or non-Vaisala Modbus-enabled environmental monitoring
equipment, or signal towers.
Your viewLinc license defines the number of monit
transmitters/Vaisala Modbus devices) that can be added. An additional Modbus
license is required to add non-Vaisala Modbus devices.See Help > About to view
your current licensed options.
Dierent t
ypes of devices are added to viewLinc in a variety of methods:
• RFL100-series wireless data loggers: Automatically identified, manually accepted.
• vNet devices: Automatically identified and automatically added (if on the same subnet),
or added manually.
• DL data loggers: Automatically identified and added automatically or manually.
• HMT140-series data loggers: Automatically identified and added automatically or
manually.
• 300-series transmitters: Added manually.
• Modbus devices: Added manually.
• Signal towers: Added manually.
Devices and hosts can be managed by users assigned Manage De
Some configuration tasks can only be performed by members of the
Administrators group.
oring devices (data loggers/
vices right.
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3.1
Device Hosts
For larger viewLinc system installations, viewLinc provides the option of adding multiple
serv
ers to act as device hosts. Connecting groups of devices to device hosts provides you with
greater control over specific devices (group management for devices connected to a single
host), and ensures greater network stability. AP10 access points are the device hosts which
manage your RFL100-series data loggers. Additional third-party access points can be added
to support groups of 300-series transmitters or HMT140 data loggers.
For example, you may want to monitor devices in multiple oces. Rather than connecting all
devices at each oce location to the Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server machine, set up
additional device hosts at each oce to support local devices.
This setup allows you to:
• Manage devices more eectively. You may find it easier to pause alarming on all devices
connected to a host, rather than trying to pause alarming on specific devices.
• Ensure even distribution of network trac. Device hosts help manage the flow of device
data to the Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server.
3.1.1 Adding Device Hosts
Manage De
Add additional servers as device hosts to help manage groups of devices.
vices
Make sure your viewLinc license will support the addition of new devices. See
Help > About.
1. On the viewLinc Enterprise Server, open Sites Manager and select the Hosts and Devices
tab.
2. In the Hosts and Devices tree, select Configure > Add Host.
3. Type the hostname or IP address.
4. Select OK.
The viewLinc Enterprise Server automatically discovers the new host and all devices
connected to it. Discovery of all devices on the new host may take a few seconds to
several minutes to complete. You can continue with other activities during the discovery
process. You are notified when the process is complete.
5. Select Yes when prompted to refresh.
More information
‣
Installing viewLinc on a Device Host Server (page 33)
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Chapter 3 – Device Management
3.1.2
Adding Access Point Hosts
Manage De
Add additional access points as device hosts to help manage groups of wireless devices. Once
connected, access points are automatically recognized in viewLinc.
1. Make sure the access point is configured and connected to your network (refer to the
AP10 User Guide for instructions).
2. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab and then select Refresh.
3. If the new access point does not appear automatically in the Hosts and Devices tree, add
the AP manually.
viewLinc automatically accepts the access point, but it may take a few seconds to several
minutes to connect all of its RFL data loggers. You can continue with other activities until you
receive notification the process is complete. If RFL data loggers are connected to the access
point, the New Devices prompt appears at the top of the viewLinc desktop.
More information
‣
Accepting Wireless Devices (page 48)
vices
a. Select Configure > Add Host.
b. Type the hostname or IP address.
c. Select Save.
d. Select Yes if prompted to refresh viewLinc.
3.2 Ways to Add Devices
As your network monitoring needs increase, it's easy to expand your monitoring capabilities
with the addition of ne
Depending on the type of devices you are adding to the viewLinc network, the following
options are available to you:
• Automatic detection of new RFL100-series or HMT140-series devices (Accept Devices).
• Automatic detection of new DL devices connected via vNet, USB or multi-port Ethernet
device (Discover Devices).
• Manual addition, when you want to add several devices of various types at one time, you
want to add 300-series transmitters (Add Device), or Modbus devices.
w devices.
A license key is required for the addition of third-party Modbus devices, and
IT A
dministrator support.
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More information
‣
A
ccepting Wireless Devices (page 48)
Discovering Networked Devices
3.2.1
Manage De
Use the Discover Devices feature to identify DL data loggers using USB or serial connection
cable, or a non-Vaisala single or multi-port Ethernet device connector. Device discovery can
also be used if any DL devices connected using vNet devices are not detected by the viewLinc
Aware function. Wireless devices (RFL100 series data loggers or HMT140 series transmitters)
are detected automatically.
1. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select the host machine to which the device is connected,
then select Configure > Discover Devices (or right-click and select Discover Devices).
This process may take several minutes, depending on the number of devices and/or
components in your network.
More information
‣
Adding Devices Manually (page 49)
‣
Enabling or Disabling viewLinc Aware (page 115)
vices
3.2.2 Accepting Wireless Devices
Manage De
vices
When a new RFL100-series data logger is added to your network, it is identified by the nearest
access point. When the access point is paired to an RFL100-series data logger it sends a
message to viewLinc that a new device is available. HMT140-series data loggers are also
automatically identified by viewLinc. Both RFL100-series and HMT140-series data loggers are
added to viewLinc using the New Devices window.
Once a data logger is accepted by your viewLinc system, it is visible in Sites Manager in the
Hosts and Devices tree.
Refer to the device user guides for more information about setting up data
loggers and access points in your facility.
1. Open Sit
48
es Manager.
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Chapter 3 – Device Management
2. If viewLinc detects new RFL100-series or HMT140-series devices, Ne
appears at the top of the Sites Manager window. Select the New Devices prompt.
If the Ne
w Devices prompt does not appear, you can add the device
manually.
3. In the Ne
your viewLinc system. You can accept a device later (select Leave Pending), or flag a
device as available for acceptance by another access point host or viewLinc device host
(select Reject).
Rejecting a device prevents it from connecting to the selected host. When a device is
rejected it becomes available to connect with another host. A rejected device continues to
appear in the New Devices window until it connects with the correct host and is accepted
in viewLinc.
4. Select Accept.
5. Select Save.
6. Open Sites Manager to verify that all accepted devices are available in viewLinc:
w Devices window in the Accept column, select the devices you want to add to
a. Select the Hosts and Devices tab.
b. Locate new devices on the Hosts and Devices tree.
w Devices text
3.2.3 Adding Devices Manually
Manage De
You may need to add a device manually to your system if:
• Discovering DL devices is taking too long.
• Wireless devices are not being recognized automatically.
• You are adding a 300-series transmitter.
• You want to add a variety of device types at one time.
vices
Before adding new devices, make sure your viewLinc license has room available to
support the number of ne
status is available from Help > About.
More information
‣
A
dding Modbus Devices (page 213)
3.2.3.1 Adding Vaisala DL Data Loggers
Manage De
1. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
vices
w devices you want to add. Your current device license
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2. On the Hos
ts and Devices tree select the Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server or a device
host, then select Configure > Add Device > DL Data Logger.
3. In the Add Device window, in the Port field, type the COM Port number (to view available
COM port numbers, go to the Windows start menu and open Device Manager).
4. Select Save.
3.2.3.2
Adding 300 Series Transmitters
Manage De
vices
1. Ensure no other users are logged on to the transmitter you want to add (from a command
prompt on the connected PC, type telnet <IP address>).
2. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
3. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select the Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server or a device
host, then select Configure > Add Device.
4. In the Add Device window, in the Device Class list, select 300 Series Transmitter.
5. Complete the following:
Timeout
To ensure continuous monitoring, do not change (default 30 seconds).
Connection Type
If the transmitter has a LAN or WLAN module, select Network. If you use an external
single or multi-port Ethernet device, choose COM Port.
IP Address
ype the IP address.
T
Sample Rate
Choose 90 (recommended, but you can modify the rate if you need more or less
recorded data).
6. Select Save.
3.2.3.3 Adding HMT140 Series Data Loggers
Manage Devices
1. Ensure no users are logged on to the HMT140 you want to add.
2. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
3. On the Hosts and Devices tree select the Vaisala viewLinc Enterprise Server or a device
host, then select Configure > Add Device.
4. In the Add Device window, in the Device Class field, select HMT140.
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5. Complete the following:
Timeout
T
o ensure continuous monitoring, do not change (default 30 seconds).
Serial number
Type the HMT140 serial number.
UDP port
Can be modified if r
Max blocks per beacon
Accept the default number of data blocks (64) transferred between viewLinc and
the device to maximize network eciency, or modify as required (256 max).
equired.
6. Select S
Do not change the Ma
without first consulting your technical support department. Changes to this
setting may adversely impact battery life.
ave.
x blocks per beacon value for HMT140 data loggers
3.2.4 Adding Multiple Device Types
Manage De
To save time, you can add several types of devices to viewLinc at one time using a definitions
file.
1. Create a .txt definitions file that identifies the device class and device properties.
2. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
3. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select a host, then select Configure > Add Device >
Upload Definitions File.
4. In the Add New Device window, in the Device Class row, browse to select the correct file.
5. Select Save.
3.3 Configure Hos
After devices are connected to your network and visible in viewLinc (Sit
and Devices), you are ready to configure your devices to work with your viewLinc monitoring
system.
Configuration activities you can complete in viewLinc for most devices include:
• Modify device description or add an alias
• Set sample intervals
• Enable or disable channels
• Modify device and channel descriptions
• Designate file storage location for historical data backup
vices
ts and Devices
es Manager > Hosts
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If you were using DL data loggers prior to installing viewLinc 5, you may have set
them up on y
our system with vLog software. You can continue to use vLog or use
viewLinc for new configuration activities.
More information
‣
E
diting Host Properties (page 54)
‣
Editing Device Properties (page 56)
‣
Editing Channel Properties (page 59)
‣
Locking or Unlocking DL Data Loggers (page 219)
3.3.1 Viewing Host and Device Properties
In Sit
es Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab to view device or host properties. Select
the top viewLinc folder in the Hosts and Devices tree to include all devices in the Properties
grid.
Table 14 Device Properties - Columns
Properties
Description System Preference in use - description or alias.
Description in Device Description pr
Device Alias Long description c
Device ID ID assigned by viewLinc when device was added.
Device Status Connection status with viewLinc.
Serial Number Serial number associated with the device.
Probe Serial Number Displays the serial number of the probe if one is connected to the
Probe Hardware Model The model of the changeable probe (for example, 'HMP115').
Probe Hardware Revision The hardware revision number of the changeable probe (for
Probe Firmware Version The firm
Clock Battery Level An icon showing the status of the realtime clock battery. The
Sample Interval Interval between samples taken from device.
channel.
Sho
wn if the connected probe supports providing this data to
viewLinc.
example, '1.1'). Shown if the connected probe supports providing
this data to viewLinc.
example, '2.1'). Shown if the connected probe supports providing
this data to viewLinc.
status can be either normal:
onnected device supports providing this data to viewLinc.
c
econfigured in device or modified in viewLinc.
onfigured in viewLinc.
ware version number of the changeable probe (for
or low: . Shown if the
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Properties
Log Capacity Estimated time remaining for data collection.
Device Address Address of device recognized in viewLinc.
Device IP Address The IP address of the device.
MAC Address MAC address of the channel's device, if available.
Security Status Only DL data loggers will display as Not secure. If a DL data
logger indicates Tampered.
Next Calibration Date Displays next calibration date, if one is set in the device.
Calibrated By Company which completed most recent calibration service. 300-
series and SP da
ta logger calibration information can only be
found on the calibration certificate shipped with the device.
Channels Number of available channels for the selected device.
Device Alarming Indicates whether device alarming is paused.
Hardware Model Hardware model information for the channel's device.
Hardware Revision Latest hardware revision number for the channel's device.
Firmware Version Latest revision number of the firm
ware in the channel's device.
Transmit Period Time between each transmission.
Battery Level Estimated battery life remaining.
RSSI (Signal Strength) For wireless devices, displays the device signal strength (dBm)
Signal Quality For wireless devices, displays current signal quality,
SNR Signal to Noise ratio for wireless devices (dB).
Lock Status DL data loggers are either locked to viewLinc (Locked) and
cannot be modified outside of vie
wLinc, are locked to vLog or
another instance of viewLinc (Remote Lock), or are not yet
locked to any software (Unlocked).
Realtime Only Yes indicates that the data logger only sends real-time data to
viewLinc. It does not store data history.
Communication Alarm
T
emplate
Name of alarm template in use for channel's device.
Configuration Alarm Template Name of alarm template in use for channel's device.
Validation Alarm Template Name of alarm template in use for channel's device
Calibration Alarm Template Name of alarm template in use for channel's device.
Channel Index Index number that the channel has assigned on its device.
Channel Description System Preference in use - description or alias.
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Properties
Channel Description in Device Description provided with the device. Refer to the Location
Channel Alias Displays the alias, if one has been created in viewLinc.
Channel Alarming Indicates whether device alarming is paused
Channel ID Unique channel iden
Device Units Units measured (such as RH, C, mA, mV).
Editable Indicates whether the device has properties that can be modified
Location Displays the Location name linked to the channel (if linked).
Table 15 Host Properties - Columns
Properties
Hostname Displays the host name for the selected device or channel.
Resolved Name For administrative purposes.
Description System Preference in use - description or alias.
Status Connection status with viewLinc.
Host IP Address Host IP address.
Host Type Indicates whether the selected host is the Vaisala viewLinc
Number of Devices The number of devices connected to the host.
Version viewLinc version running on the host.
Status Indicates whether the host is currently connected to the viewLinc
viewLinc Aware Indicates whether the viewLinc Aware Service is enabled on the
Host Alarming Indicates that host alarms are currently enabled.
Installation Mode If host is a VaiNet access point, indicates whether status is
VaiNet Channel Indicates the channel being used for the VaiNet access point, if
Host ID Unique host identifier.
.
name
in vie
wLinc.
.
machine
monit
oring system.
hos
t.
enabled or disabled.
applicable
.
tifier.
3.3.2 Editing Host Properties
Manage De
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Depending on the type of host you use, various properties can be modified:
•
On the viewLinc ES server all properties are editable.
• On an access point host you can modify the description, and enable or disable installation
mode when pairing new RFL data loggers.
• On a device host server you can modify the description, and enable or disable automatic
recognition of vNet devices (viewLinc Aware).
1. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select a host.
3. Select Configure > Edit Properties.
4. In the Edit Host Properties window, edit available properties for viewLinc Enterprise
Server host (go to step 5 for Access Point host properties).
Alternate viewLinc server name
If the vie
wLinc ES is behind a firewall, add a server name to ensure that device hosts
are recognized, even if the IP address of the viewLinc ES changes.
viewLinc Enterprise Server port
This is the port that device hosts use when connecting to the viewLinc ES (refer to
your IT port policy to determine if it needs to change).
viewLinc Aware
Disable this func
tion if you have another viewLinc ES or device host running on the
same subnet (to ensure vNets connect to the correct viewLinc ES or device host).
viewLinc system ID (64-bits)
The auto-generated system ID is used by devices to recognize the viewLinc ES. If
you need to change this number, contact Vaisala Technical Support for assistance.
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5. In the E
6. Save your changes.
dit Host Properties window, edit available properties for an Access Point host.
Description
Add a description (up to 64 alpha-numeric characters) to help identify this host. On
the Hosts and Devices tree the host name appears in addition to the description.
For example, My Host (AP10-X###).
Installation mode
Enable this function to pair new RFL data loggers with the access point.
VaiNet channel (1-8)
If y
our viewLinc system supports several access points on the same wireless
frequency, each access point requires a unique channel number to ensure
uninterrupted wireless communication.
AP display
t the panel display on or o.
Se
AP display brightness
Select the panel display brightness level.
AP LED
t the device signal light on or o.
Se
AP LED brightness
Select the device signal light brightness level.
RFL data loggers can only be paired with an access point that has
ins
tallation mode enabled. Once paired, installation mode can be
disabled. You can enable or disable installation mode in viewLinc or in
the access point web UI. For more information refer to the AP10 User
Guide.
3.3.3 Editing Device Properties
Manage De
You can view and edit device properties, such as the description, alias, timeout seconds, UDP
port, password, and data transfer parameters.
Depending on the devices you have installed, you can modify most properties in viewLinc. If
you have a DL device already linked to a vLog audit trail, you can either edit the device
properties with your vLog software, or first disable the link to the audit trail to modify
properties in viewLinc.
56
vices
CAUTION!
sample interval, sample warmup time, enable/disable channels, calibration
(
settings). To ensure all device data is up-to-date in viewLinc, view the linked
Location trend graph to see the timestamp of the last data transfer.
Editing DL data logger properties automatically clears data history
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es Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
1. In Sit
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select the device you want to edit.
3. Select Configure > Edit Properties.
4. Edit RFL data logger properties in the Edit Device Properties window:
Device alias
Optional. Type a longer, more detailed device description (up to 64 alpha-numeric
ASCII characters, less if using UNICODE characters). The alias is displayed in
viewLinc and in reports instead of the description, if the option to use aliases is set
up in System Preferences.
Device description
ype a short device description (up to 16 alpha-numeric characters) to help identify
T
this device. On the Hosts and Devices tree the device description appears in
addition to the product-supplied name. For example, My Device (van10-
X###).
RFL LED
Set the device signal light on or o.
RFL display panel
Set the device panel display on or o.
RFL units
y metric or standard units.
Displa
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5. Edit DL data logger properties in the E
dit Device Properties window:
Device alias
Optional. Type a longer, more detailed device description (up to 64 alpha-numeric
ASCII characters, less if using UNICODE characters). The alias is displayed in
viewLinc and in reports instead of the description, if the option to use aliases is set
up in System Preferences.
Device description
Type a short device description (up to 16 alpha-numeric characters) to help identify
this device. On the Hosts and Devices tree the device description appears in
addition to the product-supplied name. For example, My Device (van10-
X###).
It is recommended that you use the device description field t
the model and serial number of the device.
COM Port
y if a new COM Port is required.
Modif
Sample interval
Select the frequency of data sample collection. Depending on the sample interval
selected, the Log Capacity field will update the estimated log time available before
overwriting historical data on the device (all data history continues to be stored in
viewLinc).
Sample warm up time
Set the time required to prepare for collection of data (option available if function
supported by the data logger).
Channel [#]
w a channel to start collecting data (Enabled), or prevent a channel from
Allo
collecting data (Disabled).
6. Edit 300-series data logger properties in the Edit Device Properties window:
Device alias
Optional. Type a longer, more detailed device description (up to 64 alpha-numeric
ASCII characters, less if using UNICODE characters). The alias is displayed in
viewLinc and in reports instead of the description, if the option to use aliases is set
up in System Preferences.
Timeout (s)
Specify the number of seconds to wait for data before canceling a transmission.
IP Address
If using DHCP
, type a new IP address.
TCP port
Modify if the selected TCP port number is already in use.
Sample interval
Adjust the sample rate depending on how frequently data samples are required
from the monitored Location.
o identify
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7. Edit HMT140 data logger properties in the E
Device alias
Optional. Type a longer, more detailed device description (up to 64 alpha-numeric
ASCII characters, less if using UNICODE characters). The alias is displayed in
viewLinc and in reports instead of the description, if the option to use aliases is set
up in System Preferences.
Device description
Type a short device description (up to 16 alpha-numeric characters) to help identify
this device. On the Hosts and Devices tree the device description appears in
addition to the product-supplied name. For example, My Device (van10-
X###).
Timeout (s)
UDP port
Password
Max blocks per beacon
Retry count
Transmit period (min)
Sample interval (min)
8. Save your changes.
y the number of seconds to wait for data before canceling a transmission.
Specif
Auto-generated, can be modified if required.
ype the device password, if this device is password-protected. The password is not
T
saved.
Set the maximum size permitted for historical data retrieval. Entering a lower
number helps to conserve battery life.
Do not change the Ma
without first consulting your technical support department. Changes to
this setting may adversely impact battery life.
Specif
y the number of times data transmission is attempted by the device if it fails
to receive an acknowledgement.
t the frequency of data transmissions, in minutes.
Se
Set the frequency that data samples are saved to the device, in minutes.
dit Device Properties window:
x blocks per beacon value for HMT140 devices
More information
‣
Editing Device or Probe Calibration Properties (page 218)
‣
Editing Channel Calibration Properties (page 217)
3.3.4 Editing Channel Properties
Manage De
vices
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To easily identify a specific channel in vie
wLinc, you can edit a channel's description, alias, and
preferred temperature units, if applicable.
Depending on the device you use, dier
ent properties can be modified in
viewLinc. Refer to the specific device user's guide for more information.
1. In Sit
es Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree, select a device channel to edit.
3. Select Manage > Edit Properties.
4. In the Edit Channel Properties window, modify the fields as required.
Channel alias
Optional. T
ype a longer, more detailed channel description (up to 64 alphanumeric
ASCII characters, less if using UNICODE characters). The alias is displayed in
viewLinc and in reports instead of the description, if the option to use channel
aliases is set up in System Preferences.
Channel description
(DL and HMT140 series da
ta loggers) Type a short channel description (up to 16
alpha-numeric characters) to help identify this channel in the Hosts and Devices
tree. For example, Temperature.
Use the channel description to identify what is being measured, such as
t
emperature, humidity, voltage, or pressure, and use the linked Location
name to identify what is being monitored, such as a refrigerator reference
code or laboratory name.
5. To edit V
aisala DL data loggers with specific channel types:
Voltage or current channel properties:
First/Second input value
To convert data input, set the first and second input range scaling values.
First/Second output value
To convert data output, set the first and second output range scaling values.
Output units
Specify the type of units to display converted input values in viewLinc.
Boolean channel properties:
Value when closed
Set the value to display in viewLinc.
Output units
ditable when the channel is not linked to a Location. Specify the channel
E
units to display in viewLinc.
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6. To edit V
aisala HMT140 Series Wi-Fi Data Loggers using probes:
HMP110 probe properties:
Password
If passwords are enabled on an HMT140 device (using the HMT140 Utility
software) type the password to ensure changes to HMT140 properties are
updated on the device.
Decimal Places
Set the number of decimal places to display on the device.
High/Low Alarm Value
High and lo
w range alarm values that initiate a data transmission. l High/Low
Alarm Time: High and low alarm time specifies the number of seconds the
probe is in alarm state before transmitting a beacon. The default setting, 255,
disables the transmission.
Presentation Scale/Oset
Editable based on channel type. Refer to the Vaisala HMT140 Wi-Fi Data
Logger User's Guide.
Engineering Scale/Oset
Editable based on channel type. Refer to the Vaisala HMT140 Wi-Fi Data
Logger User's Guide.
Calibration Sc
ale/Oset
The primary calibration scaling (x = Scale* V + Oset). If the calibration scale
or oset are modified, device calibration dates appear. Before you can save
the new calibration scale or oset values, update the device calibration
settings.
7. Save your changes.
More information
‣
Editing Device or Probe Calibration Properties (page 218)
‣
Editing Channel Calibration Properties (page 217)
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4. Sites Management
The areas you monitor with devices are iden
Locations can be organized into Zones. Members of the Administrators group or other groups
assigned the right, Manage Sites, can create and modify Zones and Locations in the Sites
Manager window.
Locations are created independent of the device being used to collect data to ensure that each
L
ocation retains its assigned threshold and permission settings no matter which device is used
being used to monitor conditions. If you swap a device out for calibration, or pause device
alarming during a maintenance cycle, the Location retains the assigned threshold and
permission settings.
tified in viewLinc as Locations, and several
4.1 Zones and Locations
When creating new Zones, fir
floors, storage rooms, testing labs), then identify all the specific Locations within those areas
where your devices are installed and channels record data (cabinets, refrigerators, storage
racks).
For organizations with several devices installed, Zones help you identify the areas where data
is collected from multiple devices or device channels. You can also create sub-zones if you
monitor several areas at multiple sites.
By identifying Locations in Zones you can also:
• Swap a device easily from one Zone to another (perhaps when sending a data logger out
for calibration).
62
st think about the areas you want to monitor (your buildings,
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Chapter 4 – Sites Management
• Ensure that reporting is consistent for a specific Z
to monitor that Location.
A fully configured viewLinc desktop provides you with an online representation of your
monitored areas.
one, regardless of the data logger used
4.2 Create Zones and Locations
Sites Manager is wher
Zones, link Locations to device channels, apply threshold alarm templates, set group access
permissions, and assign schedules.
viewLinc provides you with one top-level Zone automatically, viewLinc. It can be renamed at
any time, perhaps with your company name, or the name of one of the buildings you monitor.
Additional Zones and sub-zones can be set up to help identify monitored floors, rooms,
warehouses, cooling or warming facilities). You can easily create Locations from device
channels and add them to Zones.
For a demonstration of how to create a Zone or a Location, tours are available on
the Help menu.
For more information about connecting devices and enabling or disabling channels, refer to
our device-specific user's guides.
y
4.2.1 Creating Zones
Manage Sit
Create Zones to help organize groups of Locations.
e you set up the areas you monitor as Locations, organize them into
es
1. In Sites Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select the top-level folder. You can
also select an existing Zone to create a sub-zone.
2. Select Manage > Create Zone, or right-click a Zone folder and select Create Zone.
3. On the Create Zone window, type a unique name for the Zone, then specify:
Dashboard icon
Selec
t an icon you want used to represent the type of Zone when displaying on the
dashboard.
Description
For additional clarification, you can type a description of this Zone (optional).
4. Select Create.
5. Select Save, or Undo to cancel.
If a Zone was added to an incorrect tree position, you can use your mouse to drag
o a new tree position.
it t
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4.2.2 Creating Locations
Manage Sit
Create Locations to monitor device data in viewLinc. After Locations are created, link
Locations to device channels. You require Manage Devices right to link Locations to your
device channels.
1. In Sit
2. Select Manage > Create Location, or right-click a Zone folder and select Create Location.
3. On the Create Location window, type a name for the Location.
4. Add Location properties:
5. Select Create.
6. Select Save, or Undo to cancel.
To enable data reporting and alarm monitoring in viewLinc, link this Location to a device
channel.
es
Use your mouse to drag a device channel from the Hosts and Devices tree to a
one, automatically creating a new linked Location.
Z
es Manager navigate the Zones and Locations tree to select a Zone or Location.
Use the Location name to describe the area being monitored. If a device is
s
wapped out or re-located, the Location description is retained.
Measurement type
Decimal places
Description
t the value being measured. If the type is Temperature, select the preferred
Selec
temperature unit to display in browser windows (°C or °F, or the system default, set
in the System Preferences window).
y the number of decimal places to display.
Specif
For additional clarification, you can type a description of this Location (optional).
More information
‣
Creating Linked Locations Automatically (page 66)
4.3 Link Device Channels to Locations
Link device channels to Locations to monitor recorded device data in viewLinc. Linking a
de
vice channel to a Location also allows you to maintain consistent data and alarm history for
a monitored area, even if the devices used for monitoring change (a device may be swapped
out to monitor another area, or sent for calibration or repair).
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Humidity
Temperature
Workstation 1
unlinked
linked
Chapter 4 – Sites Management
Only device channels linked to Locations can generate alarms.
When data monitoring for a specific ar
ea is no longer required, you can easily unlink a device
channel and link it to a dierent Location.
For audit trail security, you cannot delete a Location that was linked to a device
channel; however, unused Locations can be unlinked and hidden from view.
More information
‣
Unlinking or R
‣
Deactivating Locations (page 205)
elinking Locations and Channels (page 202)
4.3.1 Linking Channels to Locations
Manage Sit
Before you can start monitoring conditions with viewLinc , device channels must be linked to
viewLinc Locations.
1. In Sites Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select an unlinked Location (displayed
in italicized text.
2. Select the Hosts and Devices tab.
3. In the Hosts and Devices tree, select an unlinked channel (displayed in italicized text) with
a matching measurement type.
4. Select Configure > Link Channel
es
Full Control permis
sion is required for all Locations being linked.
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Sites Manager
Zones and Locations
Search
Pacific Labs
Station 1
Station 2
Laboratory A
Humidity LabA-WS1
Laboratory B
Laboratory C
Hosts and Devices
Search
ey
AP10-m49300012
Temperature 1
Temperature 2
DH-VAN-3192
RFL100-M2600011
Temperature
Temperature
ey
DL4000-18a
ipsum dolor sit
Temperature
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
5. In the Link Channel t
start monitoring data.
Start now
Data is recorded starting from the next available sample time.
Start from earliest available link time
Include all channel data history recorded by the device. This option is useful if the
channel has been in use but unlinked for a period of time.
Start from a specified time
t a specific time to start recording data history. You may want to use this option
Se
to delay the start of recorded history.
6. Select Link.
7. Select Save.
o Location window, choose when you want this new Location to
4.3.2 Creating Linked Locations Automatically
Manage Sit
Use the drag and drop feature to create new Locations that are automatically linked to device
channels.
es
1. In Sit
2. In the Hosts and Devices tree, select the new device.
66
Full Control permis
created.
sion is required for the Zone where the new Location will be
es Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
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Chapter 4 – Sites Management
3. Select an unlinked device channel, then drag it over to the Zone where the new Location
will be cr
4
. In the Link Channel to Location window, choose when you want this new Location to
start monitoring data:
5. Select Link.
6. To define a unique Location name, select the new Location and right-click to select Edit
Properties.
7. Select Update, then select Save.
eated. The icon changes to
Start now
Data is recorded starting from the next available sample time.
Start from earliest available link time
Include all channel data history recorded by the device. This option is useful if the
channel has been in use but unlinked for a period of time.
Start from a specified time
t a specific time to start recording data history. You may want to use this option
Se
when you want to delay the start of recorded history.
when the position is valid.
4.3.3 Viewing Channel Link History
Manage De
vices
You must have V
Manager.
1. In Sites Manager, navigate the Zones and Locations tree to select a linked Location.
2. On the Location Properties tab select the Location on the grid.
3. Select the channel history tool bar button,
4
. Review historical details the Linked Channel History window:
Link Start
Unlimited indicates this channel has remained linked and has continuously
monitored data at the linked Location since the channel started monitoring data.
Link End
More information
‣
Applying Gr
ed indicates this channel is still linked to the Location and is monitoring data
Unlimit
continuously.
oup Permission to Zones (page 128)
iew permission to see specific Zones and Locations in Sites
.
4.3.4 Finding a Channel's Linked Location (Sites Manager)
Manage Sit
es
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Sites Manager
Zones and Locations
Search
Pacific Labs
Station 1
Station 2
Laboratory A
Humidity LabA-WS1
Laboratory B
Laboratory C
Hosts and Devices
Search
ey
AP10-m49300012
Temperature 1
DH-VAN-3192
RFL100-M2600011
Temperature
Temperature
ey
DL4000-18a
Temperature 2
Temp LabA-WS1
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
es Manager, select the Hosts and Devices tab.
1. In Sit
2. Navigate to a channel in the Hosts and Devices tree.
3. Select Configure > Find Linked Location or right-click and select Find Linked Location. A
yellow highlight bar appears temporarily in the Zones and Locations tree to indicate the
linked Location.
4.3.5 Finding a Location's Linked Channel (Sites Manager)
Manage Sites
If you have a large installation with many devices and channels, try viewLinc's Find in Tree
feature. You require View permission for all linked Locations.
1. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
2. Navigate to a Location in the Zones and Locations tree.
3. Select Configure or right-click and select Find Linked Channel. A yellow highlight bar
appears temporarily in the Hosts and Devices tree to indicate the linked channel.
4.3.6 Finding a Location's Linked Channel (Sites)
1. In Sit
2. On the Status tab select a Location.
3. Select the Find in Tree toolbar button, or right-click on the Location and select Find in
Tree. A yellow highlight bar appears temporarily in the Zones and Locations tree to
indicate the corresponding Location.
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es navigate to a Zone in the Zones and Locations tree.
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4.4 Build Dashboards
Create a dashboard to help your team become familiar with the physical location of data
poin
ts (viewLinc Locations). A dashboard can be a facility map, a drawing, photo, or other
image file (.png or .jpg) representing a specific area.
After you add an image, select and place sub-zones or individual Locations on the dashboard.
Y
ou can create dashboards to display Location data without a background image, for larger,
more remote screen displays.
After you add an image, select and place sub-zones or individual Locations on the
dashboar
background image, for larger, more remote screen displays.
d. You can create dashboards to display Location data without a
4.4.1 Building Dashboards
Manage Sites
Upload a dashboar
You can add a dashboard image to a Zone or a Location, or to a view (a view you created or
are permitted to edit).
d image file from any desktop or network location, in .png or .jpg format.
You require Full Control permission to add a Zone or Location dashboard image,
or t
o add dashboard images to views created by others.
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4.4.1.1 Adding Dashboard Image
Manage Sit
1. In Sites Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select a Zone or a Location (or in
Views Manager on the Views tree, select a view).
2. Select the Dashboard tab, then select Add Dashboard Image.
3. Browse to find an image, then select Add. The image automatically resizes to fit the
screen. If it is necessary to resize the image, adjust the borders with your mouse, starting
from the bottom right corner.
4. Select Save.
4.4.1.2 Adding Zones and/or Location Data Points
Manage Sit
es or Manage Views
es or Manage Views
Only sub-zones and child Locations of a Zone can be added as data points on the
dashboar
1. In Sit
es Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, or in Views Manager on the Views
tree, select a Zone or Location you want to display on the dashboard.
2. Click and drag the Zone or Location to the dashboard. When you drag the Zone or
Location, an icon appears to indicate when it can be added to the dashboard,
When a sub-zone is added to the dashboard, it displays with its assigned dashboard
•
icon, or, if one was not assigned, the default folder icon. Double-click the icon to view
Location data.
• When a Location is added to the dashboard, it displays the current numeric data
reading, with the icon color indicating current condition severity (as set in the
threshold alarm template).
3. Select Save.
4.4.2
Modify the contents of the dashboard and the appearance of Zone and Location data points.
4.4.2.1 Changing Dashboard Image
Changing Dashboard Display Settings
Manage Sit
You requireF
selected Zone, Location, or view.
Manage Sit
d image.
.
es or Manage Views
ull Control permission to modify the dashboard display for a
es or Manage Views
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Changing the dashboard image does not delete your data points (but you may need to adjust
their position on the ne
w image).
1. In Sites Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select the Zone or Location you want
to modify (or in Views Manager select a view).
2. Select the Dashboard tab, then select Add Dashboard Image,
3.
Type the file location or use the Browse... button to navigate to the image you wish to
.
use, then select Add.
4. Save your changes.
4.4.2.2 Changing Font Size for All Zones
Manage Sit
es or Manage Views
You may want to apply the same settings to all Zones on a dashboard, or modify settings for
specific Locations that are important to you.
Change the font size for all Zones on the selected dashboard:
1. In Sites Managerr on the Zones and Locations tree, select a Zone.
2. On the Dashboard tab, select Settings > Dashboard Zone Settings.
3. In the Dashboard Zone Settings window, select the font size in the Value column.
4. Save your changes.
4.4.2.3 Changing Font Size for Individual Zones
Manage Sit
es or Manage Views
1. In Sites Manager on the Dashboard tab, right-click on a Zone and select Edit Display
Settings.
2. In the Edit Zone Display Settings window, choose a font size from the drop-down list, or
select Set to Default to change it to use dashboard preferences.
3. Save your changes.
4.4.2.4 Changing Preferences for All Locations
You may want to apply the same settings to all Locations on a dashboard, or modify settings
or specific Locations that are important to you.
f
To set Location preferences for all Locations on the selected dashboard:
1. In Sites Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select a Zone with Locations set on a
dashboard.
2. On the Dashboard tab, select the Settings > Dashboard Location Settings.
3. In the Dashboard Location Settings window, select a property to modify. Select a row in
the Value column to see available options.
4. Save your changes.
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4.4.2.5
Changing Preferences for Individual Location
To set Location preferences for an individual Dashboard Location:
1.
In Sites Manager on the Dashboard tab, right-click on a Location to modify, and select
Edit Display Preferences.
2. In the Edit Location Display Preferences window, select a property to modify. Select a
row in the Value column to see available options.
3. Save your changes.
4.4.2.6 Changing Description Display Options for All Locations
To set Location description display options for all Locations on the dashboard:
In Sites Manager on the Dashboard tab, select Settings > Dashboard Location Settings.
1.
2. In the Dashboard Location Settings window, modify the description display options:
Description
Choose to display the Location description (as specified in Location Properties)
above, below, or beside the data reading.
Description format
Description format
3. Save your changes
4.4.2.7 Changing Description Display Options for Individual Location
To set Location Description display options for an individual Location on the dashboard:
In Sites Manager on the Dashboard tab, right-click on a Location to modify, and select
1.
Edit Display Settings.
2. In the Edit Location Display Settings window, modify the description display options
Description
Choose to display the Location description (as specified in Location Properties)
above, below, or beside the data reading.
Description format
y only the Location description or Location and Zone descriptions.
Displa
Set to Default
Select to accept all globally-set dashboard preferences.
3. Save your changes.
4.4.2.8 Setting up Dashboard for Wall-mounted Monitors
es Manager on the Dashboard tab, select Settings.
1. In Sit
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2. Choose to display Location data in 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-columns of tiles. A greater number of
L
ocations may require a greater number of columns. Test each option to determine which
display option suits your needs most eectively.
When a column tiling option is selected, the uploaded dashboard image
f
ades into the background.
3. Save your changes.
4.4.3 Deleting Dashboard Images or Data Points
Manage Sit
You can keep dashboards up-to-date with changes to the number of facilities monitored or the
addition of more monitored areas. Any user can modify the dashboard images they add in
Views Manager, or for the views they are permitted to edit.
es or Manage Views
Users belonging to groups with Manage Sit
can modify dashboards in Sites Manager. Users belonging to groups with
Manage Views right and Full Control permission can modify dashboards in
Views Manager.
4.4.3.1 Deleting Single Dashboard Data Point
es Manager on the Zones and Locations tree (or in Views Manager on the Views
1. In Sit
tree), select the Zone or Location dashboard you want to modify.
2. On the Dashboard tab, right-click a dashboard data point then select Delete.
3. At the prompt, select Delete.
4. Save the change, or select Undo to cancel.
4.4.3.2 Deleting Dashboard Image and/or All Dashboard Data Points
es Manager on the Zones and Locations tree (or in Views Manager on the Views
1. In Sit
tree), select the dashboard you want to delete.
2. On the Dashboard tab select Clear Dashboard.
3. Choose to delete either the Zones and Locations or the dashboard image, or both, then
select Clear.
4. Save the change, or select Undo to cancel.
es right and Full Control permission
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Overview
Sites
Reports
Alarms
Views Manager
Events
Users and Groups
Alarm Templates
Sites Manager
System Preferences
Grouproup: Everyone
Group: Admin
ipsum
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ipsum
ipsum
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ipsum ipsum
Version 5.1 User Guide M212315EN-B
5. Groups and Users
All viewLinc users must be assigned to one or more groups. Each group is assigned rights that
define the vie
wLinc windows the users in the group can access.
Users can belong to more than one group. To help get you started, there are two default
oups available:
gr
•
A
assigned. They can access all windows and perform any function within viewLinc .
•
E
group has access to the Overview, Sites, Reports, Alarms, Views Manager, and Events
windows. The Zones and Locations users are permitted to view and/or modify within a
window are set with permission levels.
Members of the Administrators group are automatically granted Full Control permission to all
Zones and Locations. They can also perform system-level changes, such as restart viewLinc
Enterprise Server or a device host, acknowledge system alarms, acknowledge all inactive
alarms, permanently delete Zones or Locations, and fix the validation status or remote lock on
DL data loggers.
74
dministrators: A user added to the viewLinc Administrators group has all rights
veryone: All new users are automatically assigned to the Everyone group. This
To learn more watch these tours: Rights and Permissions, Add a Group, and Add
a User, available on the Help menu.
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Chapter 5 – Groups and Users
More information
‣
Applying Gr
oup Permission to Zones (page 128)
5.1 Rights
Rights are assigned to groups, and give all users in a group access to functional areas in
vie
wLinc. Groups can be given one or more rights, and users can be members of one or more
groups. By default all new users are automatically assigned to the Everyone group with the
right, Manage Events.
Users created in an earlier version of viewLinc retain any rights that were assigned
in the earlier v
more eectively, remove legacy user rights and assign the user to a group with
the same rights.
Once removed, legacy user rights cannot be reapplied.
ersion. To manage access to dierent functional areas of viewLinc
Users assigned to the viewLinc A
dministrators group are automatically granted
these additional system-level functions:
• Undo remote-lock on DL data loggers
• Restart viewLinc
• Test network communications
• Acknowledge all inactive alarms
• Acknowledge system alarms
• Correct security status
• Pause host alarms
• Add users to the Administrators group
• Edit user profiles of Administrators group members
Table 16 Rights Definitions
Name Access to Description
Manage Alarm T
Manage Devices Sites Manager, Hos
emplates Alarm Templates Add or edit alarm templates
ts and
Devices tab
(threshold alarms, device
alarms, notifications, email and
SMS content, schedules).
Add, edit, deactivate, or lock
devices; Modify host alarm
settings. Requires Full Control
permission on linked Locations.
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Name Access to Description
Manage E
Manage R
Manage Sit
Manage System System Preferences Set or edit system-wide
Manage Views Views Manager Add, edit, or share personal or
vents Overview, Sites, Reports,
Alarms, Views Manager, and
Events
eports Reports View, print, copy, or edit
es Sites Manager, Hosts and
Devices tab
View, add events and event
comments; Create personal
views.
reports created by others (all
users can add, edit or delete
their own reports).
Add, edit, or deactivate Zones
and Locations; Swap devices
with linked Locations; Add
threshold alarms and
schedules; Assign group
permission to Zones; Unlink
channels from Locations.
preferences; Add predefined
comments; Add or modify
users and groups.
other user’s views.
Group rights are r
efined by permissions. While rights allow groups to complete
specific tasks in viewLinc windows, permissions control the Zones and/or
Locations a group can view, configure or manage.
More information
‣
P
ermissions (page 126)
5.2 Adding Groups
Manage S
Assigning users to groups helps define which areas of viewLinc you want specific users to
access.
1. In the Users and Groups window, select the Groups tab, then select Add.
2. In the Add Group window on the Properties tab, type a name for the group. You can use
76
ystem
the Description field to describe the rights you will assign to the group, or the primary job
function of the group.
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Chapter 5 – Groups and Users
3. Select the Righ
4. To add users to this group, select the Members tab then selec
5. Select Save.
ts tab, then select the rights you want to assign to the group
If you are creating a group for use with Vaisala OPC UA Server, no rights are
r
equired. The group does require View permission to access data in Zones
and/or Locations.
t users to add the group.
5.3 Adding Users
Manage S
Before you add users to your system, determine which rights the user will need. Users are
given rights through the group or groups to which they are assigned.
1. In the Users and Gr
2. To avoid adding a duplicate user account, check that the user does not already exist
3. Select Add.
4. On the Properties tab, add user details:
ystem
Only members of the A
Administrators group.
oups window select the Users tab.
a. In the Search field, type the username or full name, then select the search icon
. Select the
b
User name and Full name
Type a username to use on the login page, and a full name, for internal reference
(your company may use abbreviated names for login credentials). If this user will log
in with Windows authentication, type their Windows username then select
Windows as the Authentication method.
Email, Mobile number
Add the user's contact details to receive reports and alarm notifications, and send
alarm acknowledgements. Type a mobile number which includes the '+' sign, the
country code and area code. For example, +44 604 273 6850 (dashes, spaces or
periods can be included, but are not required).
to clear the field and displa
dministrators group can add new users to the
y the full list of users.
.
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5. If schedules functionality is enabled, choose a schedule from the Send alarm no
field to define when to send alarm notifications to this user:
Always
This user will receive notifications at any time of day or night.
According to schedule
If this user is a member of a group set up to receive alarm notifications, select the
schedule which defines when this user should receive notifications.
Never
his user will not receive alarm notifications, even if they are assigned to a group set
T
up to receive alarm notifications.
6. Specify notification details:
viewLinc PIN
Enter a unique 4 to 5 digit number between 1000 and 99999. This number is
required when the user acknowledges an email or SMS alarm notification on their
mobile device.
Preferred language
Choose the language to use when user generates a report or viewLinc sends this
user reports and alarm notifications. If no language selected, the system default
language is used. Users can select any language.
The language selected when logging in to viewLinc applies to the
vie
wLinc display only.
Audible alarm no
tification
Choose to enable audible alarms on the user's device (desktop PC) when logged in
to viewLinc. Audible alarms must be enabled in System Preferences.
tifications
Only the most recently generated alarm initiates a sound. The user can
turn o an audible alarm in the main viewLinc window by clicking the
audible alarm icon .
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7. If you want to use the REST API programming interface (included in the Web API license),
cr
eate an authentication token to access viewLinc with your REST API application.
a. Select Create to generate a token.
b. Copy the generated token to your REST API application.
c. To remove the token you generated from use, select Revoke. All requests made using
the revoked token will be rejected.
The REST API token can only be changed by the user that created the
t
oken. This also applies to administrator users: they cannot create or
revoke the REST API tokens of other users.
The Las
t used field shows the latest time when the token was used to access viewLinc.
8. Choose the method of Authentication:
viewLinc
Select this option to add a unique viewLinc password, then type a password in the
Password and Confirm new password fields.
Note the password complexity requirements: minimum length 8
acters, containing at least 1 upper case letter, 1 lower case letter, 1
char
digit, and 1 special character.
Windows
Selec
t this option to allow user to log into viewLinc with their current Windows
password. Check that the Windows user name is added in the User name field (see
the previous step), and then specify the Domain.
You can require that users re-confirm their identity (re-enter their username
and password) whenever a change is made in viewLinc, or after a set number
of minutes. For instructions, see Setting Authentication Requirement
(page 116).
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9.
The authentication preference settings in this step are required only if you
chose vie
wLinc authentication in step 8. If you chose Windows
authentication, move to step 10.
Set authentication preferences and account locking status for this user:
a. P
assword never expires: the default setting is Expires according to system
preferences (password expires according to the time limit set in System
Preferences). If you want to switch password expiry o, select Never expires. This
may be required, for example, for uninterrupted access through automatic systems
such as API or OPC.
b. Must change password on next login: select Yes or No.
c. Account locked: select either Locked or Unlocked. If a user that uses viewLinc
authentication has been locked out due to too many failed login attempts, an
administrator can unlock the account with this selection.
If you are creating a dedicated user for Vaisala OPC UA Server, prevent
access interruptions by setting the Must change password on next login
selection as No, and the Password never expires selection as Never expires.
10. On the Gr
oups tab, assign the user to a group. In the Selected column check all the
groups you want the user to belong to. Review the Rights column to ensure you are
giving this user the rights they need.
If you are creating a dedicated user for Vaisala OPC UA Server, add this user
t
o the dedicated Vaisala OPC UA Server group.
11. Select S
More information
‣
‣
‣
80
ave.
Enabling or Disabling Audible Alarms (page 112)
Setting Authentication Requirement (page 116)
Locking and Unlocking User Accounts (page 197)
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6. Alarm Templates
Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
Alarm templates are used to define the alarm c
Locations and devices.
Create thr
trigger an alarm, then apply the template to one or more Locations.
Default de
device connected to your viewLinc system. They specify how and when
you want to be notified of device status. The default templates can be
modified, or you can create new device alarm templates.
Create alarm no
the event of a threshold or device alarm, the information that should be
distributed in email, SMS, or voice messages, or whether to initiate a
command to activate visual or auditory alarms, and whether the notified
individual must acknowledge an alarm. Alarm notification templates are
applied to Locations using threshold alarm templates.
Default email, SMS and v
standard information issued from viewLinc about dierent alarm
conditions in your network. The default content can be modified. Note
that SMS functionality requires a supported modem, and voice/SMS
services via web require a Twilio account.
(Optional) Create schedules t
be monitored, and when you want alarm notifications sent. You can set
up a day schedule and an evening schedule to send notifications to
dierent teams, or set schedules to prevent users on holiday from
receiving alarms. Schedules functionality must be enabled.
Alarm templates can be added/
Manage Alarm Templatesright.
eshold alarm templates to specify the conditions that should
vice alarm templates are provided and assigned to each new
tification templates to define who should be notified in
modified by users assigned to groups with
ondition and notification requirements for
oice templates are provided. They contain
o define when Location thresholds should
More information
‣
Se
tting Up Voice or SMS Web Services (page 141)
‣
Enabling or Disabling Schedules (page 112)
‣
Setting System Alarm Preferences (page 123)
6.1 Types of Alarms
Alarms indicate issues that may require immediate resolution, provide notifica
interruptions in communication between devices or hosts and the viewLinc Enterprise Server,
updates about system status or configuration changes, and reminders about upcoming
maintenance requirements.
tion about
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Alarms are viewable in the Alarms windo
w (device and system alarms and threshold alarms for
Locations you have permission to view), the Sites window (device and threshold alarms for the
Locations you have permission to view), or in the Overview window (device and threshold
alarms for the Locations assigned to your views).
All alarm events are recorded in the event log, to ensure a secure audit trail.
Table 17 Alarm Descriptions
Alarm Type Description
System Event log validation alarms indicate whether changes have been made to
Threshold Threshold alarms indicate excessive condition changes in a monitored
Device Device configuration alarms indicate interruptions collecting device data.
the e
vent log from outside the viewLinc system.
Database validation alarms indicate database corruption or configuration
changes made to the historical database originating outside viewLinc.
System alarm settings are c
environment.
Threshold alarm settings are defined in thr
then applied to Locations.
Host c
onfiguration alarms indicate synchronization errors between a
device host or access point and the viewLinc Enterprise Server.
Device validation alarms indicate corruption in the device memory.
Device calibration alarms indicate upcoming calibration service
r
equirements.
Host communication alarms occur when a device host or access point
loses c
onnection with the viewLinc Enterprise Server.
Device communication alarms indicate a communication error between a
host computer, access point or viewLinc Enterprise Server, and its
connected devices.
Device alarm settings are defined in t
onfigured in System Preferences.
eshold alarm templates and are
emplates.
System Alarms
6.2
System alarms occur automatically when viewLinc detects changes made outside standard
desk
top operation. It is issued to warn of possible database tampering.
If you receive a system alarm notification (email or SMS), investigate possible causes,
acknowledge the alarm notification, and, if required, follow your company's standard
operating procedures (SOPs) to resolve the issue.
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Critical system errors and warnings are automatically sent to the IT Network manager, and you
ha
ve the option of sending additional email or SMS system alarm notifications to members of
the default Administrators group.
You can modify the content of system alarm email and SMS messages.
Types of System Alarms
• Database Validation: This alarm indicates device tampering such as a change to the
configuration database, data modifications (a possible external script), or data corruption.
• Event Log Validation: This alarm indicates database security interruptions, such as a
change made to the event log from outside the viewLinc system.
More information
‣
Setting System Alarm Preferences (page 123)
6.3 Threshold Alarms
Thresholds define the ac
inventory or production environment. Threshold condition limits are saved as threshold alarm
templates, and can be applied to one or more Locations. If condition limits are exceeded,
viewLinc can activate an alarm, and, optionally, send one or more alarm notifications.
Threshold alarm templates define:
• Values associated with one or more conditions (Low-Low, Low, High, High-High, RoC,
Alarm o margin).
• Color codes to reflect condition severity.
• One or more threshold alarm activation delays.
• Whether the alarm needs to be acknowledged.
You can apply one or more threshold templates to a Location, depending on how often you
need to change threshold values, or how frequently you want to know about changing
conditions.
You can also specify the alarm o margin so viewLinc will ignore condition changes within a
specified temperature range and persist sending alarm notifications while conditions remain in
this range.
Up to 5 threshold settings can be saved as a single template and then assigned to one or more
Locations. If the settings are modified, the new settings apply to all Locations to which they
have been assigned.
cepted condition limits required to preserve the quality of your
Example
If you have a monitored area that should remain between 10°C and 12°C, you could set up one
or all of these levels:
• Low threshold set at 10.5 °C to warn when the temperature is close to the Low-Low
threshold.
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• Low-Low threshold set at 10 °C lasting for more than 1 minute to trigger specific alarm
se
ttings for the breach of the lower threshold.
• High threshold set at 11.5 °C to warn when the temperature is close to the High-High
threshold.
• High-High threshold set at 12 °C lasting for more than 5 minutes to trigger specific alarm
settings when upper threshold exceeded.
• Rate of Change set to 0.25 °C/min to warn when temperature increases or decreases
rapidly.
More information
‣
Creating Threshold Alarm Templates (page 84)
‣
Alarm Notifications (page 98)
6.3.1 Creating Threshold Alarm Templates
Manage Alarm T
Threshold settings (high and low condition limits) are stored in reusable templates which can
be applied to one or more Locations. These threshold settings define the conditions that you
want to trigger alarms at a specific Location.
1. In the Alarm Templates window select the Threshold Alarms tab.
emplates
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Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
2. Select A
dd > Add Threshold Alarm Template. To copy settings from an existing template,
select the template, then Add > Copy Selected Threshold Alarm Template.
3. In the A
dd Threshold Alarm Template window, add a unique name for the new template
and then set the template details:
Measurement type
Select the type of measurement monitored at selected Location(s).
Unit
Choose the units you want used to record the measurement type.
Alarm o mar
gin
Specify an active alarm range. If an alarm condition fluctuates within the active
alarm range, the alarm does not turn o. For example, if the high threshold is 10 °C,
and the alarm o margin is 1 °C, the alarm will not turn o until the temperature falls
to or below 9 °C.
Permissions
Select the groups authorized to modify or apply this template to Locations.
Description
optional) Provide more details about the threshold template settings.
(
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4. Enable one or more threshold levels:
Select
Selec
t the threshold levels you want to activate.
Level
Five threshold levels are available, but you only set values for the levels that are
selected.
Threshold
t a numerical value manually or with the up/down arrows.
Se
Priority
Set the response priority for the threshold value. Priority value provides users a
visual clue about the severity of conditions in the Alarms window.
Report Category
This setting defines whether alarms triggered by the threshold level appear on
reports as Alarms or Warnings. You can set report options to include or exclude
these categories, depending on your reporting requirements.
Alarm Delay
t a delay if you want to prevent a threshold alarm from triggering immediately
Se
after threshold is exceeded. You may want to set a delay if you want an alarm
triggered only if the condition persists beyond a delay period.
5. Select Save.
Applying Threshold Alarm Templates to Locations
6.3.2
Manage Alarm T
emplates
After creating threshold alarm templates, you can apply the templates to Zones or to specific
Locations. You can apply and enable up to six threshold alarm templates on one Location, to
accommodate dierent monitoring needs at dierent times.
To apply a threshold alarm template to a Location, you require C
permission or higher for the selected Location.
1. In Sit
es Manager on the Zones and Locations tree, select a Zone or a Location (hold the
CTRL key to select multiple Zones/Locations).
Threshold alarm levels are ignored if they fall outside the Location's linked
vice measurement range.
de
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onfigure Alarms
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Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
2. Select Manage > A
dd Threshold Alarms. Complete the fields in the Add Threshold Alarm
window:
Location
Verify that you are adding a threshold alarm template to the correct Location(s). If
you selected a Zone, the threshold alarm template is applied to all Locations in the
Zone.
Status
Set status to Enabled to actively monitor thresholds on selected Location(s). If you
do not want the threshold alarm settings activated on this Location until a later time
(you may have more configuring to do), set as Disabled.
Send to device
Choose whe
ther to send threshold level information to an RFL100-series or
HMT140-series data logger. Select the threshold levels to display using the
checkboxes in the Alarm on Device column. Only two levels can display on an
HMT140 device (1 high and 1 low).
Device password
If the selected Location is linked to an HMT140 device with password functionality
enabled, type the password to apply threshold settings.
Measurement type
Select the type of conditions being measured at this Location.
Threshold alarm template
t an available threshold alarm template. The threshold template details appear
Selec
in the grid.
3. For each alarm level, update threshold alarm settings:
Alarm on Device
For RFL100 and HMT140 series data loggers. Choose which threshold level(s) to
display (an HMT140 can accept 2 levels, one high and one low; RFL can accept 4
levels). For areas with several devices, you may want to display only the most critical
threshold levels. If the device is moved, threshold levels remain enabled on the
device.
The Send t
o device option must be enabled to allow threshold levels to
alarm on a device.
Alarm No
tification Template
Select an alarm notification template to use if this threshold is exceeded. Alarm
notification templates define who is notified and when.
Message or Comment
All threshold alarm notifications use content specified in viewLinc's default
notification content templates. Use this field to insert custom text in place of the
[AlarmMessage] and [Comment] macros embedded in the content templates. For
example, you may want to add a description of an action required to resolve a
common issue, "This pump tends to cause this alarm, make sure to reset it before
acknowledging."
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4. Select S
More information
‣
‣
ave.
To copy a threshold template to other Locations using the same measurement
t
ype:
1. On the Threshold Alarm Settings tab, select a threshold.
2. Select
3. On the Zones and Locations tree, select a Zone or Location.
4. On the Threshold Alarm Settings tab, select Paste to the selected Zone or
Location.
Alarm Notifica
Notification Content (page 106)
opy selected threshold alarm settings.
C
tions (page 98)
6.3.3 Editing Threshold Alarm Templates
Manage Alarm Templates
Adjust threshold levels for all Locations using the same threshold alarm template.
CAUTION!
the template.
1. In Alarm T
2. Select the template you want to modify, then select Edit.
3. Select View Locations to verify that changes can be applied to all Locations currently
using the template.
4. Modify the editable settings.
5. Select Save.
emplates select the Threshold Alarms tab.
Changes to a threshold alarm template aec
t all Locations using
6.3.4 Editing Location Threshold Alarm Settings
Manage Alarm T
Modify threshold alarming status, threshold alarm template or alarm notification template
used for individual or multiple Locations.
88
emplates
To modify threshold alarm settings you require C
higher for the selected Location(s).
onfigure Alarms permission or
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Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
es Manager in the Zones and Locations tree, select the Zone or Location you want
1. In Sit
to modify (CTRL+click to select multiple Zones and Locations).
2. Select the Threshold Alarm Settings tab, and then select one or more threshold alarm
rows .
3. Select Edit threshold alarm settings.
CAUTION!
settings applied, indicated with the icon,
ve mixed settings unchanged.
lea
4. Select S
6.3.5
Manage Alarm T
Threshold alarm settings cannot be deleted, but they can be deactivated. Once deactivated,
the threshold alarm settings row is hidden from view. Deactivated threshold alarm settings can
be reactivated on the Location at any time.
To prevent a Location from using applied threshold alarm settings temporarily (useful if you
need to store more than six threshold alarm settings with a Location), simply disable a
threshold alarm setting.
1. In Sites Manager select a Location in the Zones and Locations tree.
2. On the Threshold Alarm Settings tab, select the threshold you want to deactivate.
3. Select Deactivate.
4. At the prompt, select Deactivate
More information
‣
ave.
Deactivating Threshold Alarms
emplates
To view a deactivated threshold, select V
Settings.
Enabling or Disabling T
If modifying settings for multiple Locations with dier
, it is recommended that you
iew > Include Deactivated Threshold
hreshold Alarm Settings (page 207)
ent
6.3.6 Reactivating Threshold Alarms
Manage Alarm T
You can reactivate a deactivated threshold alarm settings on the Location at any time.
1. In Sites Manager select a Location in the Zones and Locations tree.
emplates
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2. On the T
3. From the list of threshold alarm templates that appear, highlight the threshold you want
4. At the prompt, select Activate.
hreshold Alarm Settings tab select View > Include Deactivated Threshold
Settings.
to reactivate, then select Activate.
6.4 Device Alarms
Communication between devices and the viewLinc Enterprise Server is essential for
c
ontinuous monitoring of conditions. To ensure you are notified of any issues that require
attention, configure the default host and device alarm templates according to your company's
notification requirements.
In Sites Manager, the Device Alarms tab displays a list of the device alarm templates applied
to your devices. You can modify the default device alarm templates, or create new device
alarm templates in the Alarm Templates window.
6.4.1 Types of Device Alarms
Four (4) device alarm templates are automatically applied to each monitoring device
c
onnected to the viewLinc Enterprise Server (data loggers and transmitters). Two alarm
templates are applied to hosts (Device Host computers and access points).
Device alarm templates contain default (and modifiable) settings which define:
• Alarm priority
• Alarm notification delay
• Acknowledgement requirements
• Group authorized to modify device alarm settings
The default device alarm templates assigned to devices can be modified. You can also create
new device alarm templates with unique settings for specific Locations.
•
Device Calibration Reminder
• Device Communication Alarm
• Device C
•
onfiguration Alarm
Device Validation Alarm
De
vice or Host Communication Alarms
Device communication alarms occur when communication is interrupted between a host
computer, access point or viewLinc Enterprise Server, and its connected devices.
Host Communication Alarms occur when a device host or access point loses its connection to
the viewLinc Enterprise Server. Communication alarms are like a system health test, alerting
you if there is a problem that might disrupt viewLinc monitoring and alarming.
By default, there is one communication alarm template preconfigured for each host and each
device. Communication alarm templates control:
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• How alarm notifica
tion displays
• Who is notified
• When alarm notification is initiated
• Whether alarm acknowledgement is required
If a device host computer or access point host goes oine
, only a host
communication alarm is generated. Connected devices do not generate device
communication alarms.
Device or Host C
onfiguration Alarms
If you receive a device configuration alarm, this indicates that your device is configured
incorrectly or has stopped recording data history. Host configuration alarms are triggered
when there is a synchronization error between a host and it's connected devices.
Here are a few examples:
• An internal device error is preventing data history from recording.
• viewLinc detects a device's stop mode is not set to Wrap when full (DL data loggers).
• viewLinc cannot retrieve historical samples because a device is configured with a delayed
data recording start (DL data loggers).
• viewLinc detects a device that is locked to another system.
• A device may have a disabled channel that is linked to Location.
• IR sensor sending too many transmissions which may drain battery.
The default delay before viewLinc sends a device configuration alarm notification is 60
seconds. You can adjust the notification delay and other device configuration settings in
viewLinc.
Device Validation Alarms
If the validation memory in a device is corrupted or has been modified, this alarm notification
will advise that you contact your Vaisala technical support representative for assistance.
Device Calibration Alarms
A device calibration alarm is an intermittent notification sent when a Vaisala data logger or
probe is due for calibration.
By default, you receive notifications at the following intervals: 3 months and 1 month before
the calibration due date, then again on the scheduled recalibration date (auto-generated for 1
year from last calibration date). This alarm remains active, even after acknowledgement, until
the device is recalibrated (for more information contact Vaisala Calibration Service Center).
You can set the default calibration duration for all data loggers in S
ystem
Preferences, or, if you have Manage Devices right, modify the calibration duration
for a specific data logger or probe in Sites Manager.
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6.4.2 Editing Host Communication Alarm Settings
Manage Alarm T
By default, viewLinc assigns a host communication alarm template to all new hosts added to
the viewLinc monitoring system. Host communication alarm settings can be modified, and an
alarm notification template can be added. Together, these templates define when a host
communication alarm is activated, who is notified, and what alarm priority should be assigned
(for reporting purposes).
1. In Sites Manager select theHosts and Devices tab.
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree select one or more hosts.
3. Select Configure > Host Communication Alarm Settings.
emplates
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4. Set properties:
Status
Hos
t communication alarms can only be generated when status is enabled.
Device alarm template
Accept the default template, Default Communication Alarm, or select a custom
template from the drop-down list. Template selection applies to all selected hosts.
Alarm no
Alarm message
Alarm comment
5. Save your changes.
e information
Mor
‣
Editing Device Alarm Templates (page 97)
tification template
Select a custom template from the drop-down list. Notifications are not sent if no
alarm notification selected (alarms are always indicated on the Location Alarms tab
in Sites or Overview, or in the Alarms window).
(Optional) Add a descriptive message to include in alarm notifications. This text is
used in place of the [AlarmMessage] macro in the related default email templates,
or can be added to a custom email/SMS/voice template.
(Optional) Select from the list of available predefined comments, or enter a custom
comment to include in alarm notifications. This text is used in place of the
[Comments] macro in the related default email templates, or can be added to a
custom email/SMS/voice template.
Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
6.4.3 Editing Host Configuration Alarm Settings
Manage Alarm T
By default, viewLinc assigns a host configuration alarm template to all new hosts added to the
viewLinc monitoring system. Host configuration alarm settings can be modified, and an alarm
notification template can be added. Together, these templates define when a host
configuration alarm is activated, who is notified, and what alarm priority should be assigned
(for reporting purposes).
1. In Sites Manager select the Hosts and Devices tab.
2. On the Hosts and Devices tree select one or more hosts.
3. Select Configure > Host Configuration Alarm Settings.
emplates
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4. Set properties:
Status
Hos
t configuration alarms can only be generated when status is enabled.
Device alarm template
Accept the default device alarm template, Default Host Configuration Alarm, or
select a custom template from the drop-down list. Template selection applies to all
selected hosts.
Alarm no
Alarm message
Alarm comment
5. Save your changes.
Mor
e information
‣
Editing Device Alarm Templates (page 97)
tification template
Select a template from the drop-down list. Notifications are not sent if no alarm
notification selected (alarms are always indicated on the Location Alarms tab in
Sites or Overview, or in the Alarms window).
(Optional) Add a descriptive message to include in alarm notifications. This text is
used in place of the [AlarmMessage] macro in the related default email templates,
or can be added to a custom email/SMS/voice template.
Optional) Select from the list of available predefined comments, or add a custom
(
comment to include in alarm notifications. This text is used in place of the
[Comments] macro in the related default email templates, or can be added to a
custom email/SMS/voice template.
6.4.4 Creating Device Alarm Templates
Manage Alarm T
Create a copy of a device alarm template when you want to replicate most template
properties, or create a new template when you want to define all new properties.
1. In Alarm Templates select the Device Alarms tab.
94
emplates
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Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
2. Select A
dd > Add Device Alarm Template. To copy settings, select an existing template,
then select Add > Copy Selected Device Alarm Template.
3. In the A
dd Device Alarm Template window, type a unique name for the new template and
then set the template properties:
Priority
T
he priority level is used as a visual indication of issue severity, to help you
determine how quickly to respond to the issue.
Alarm delay
hen viewLinc identifies a device alarm condition, the delay is the time period
W
starting from the moment an issue is detected and when the device alarm is
triggered. It is recommended that you set the delay according to the priority.
Acknowledgement
Indicate whether user acknowledgement of this device alarm is required. When an
alarm is acknowledged, the action is tracked in the event log.
Permissions
t the groups permitted to modify or apply this template. The group requires
Selec
Configure Alarms permission to apply the template to Locations.
Description
(optional) Provide more details about the device alarm template.
4. Select Save.
You can now apply this device alarm template to a Location.
When you apply a device alarm template to a Location, it remains in eec
Location, even if the Location is linked to a dierent device.
t on the
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More information
‣
T
ypes of Device Alarms (page 90)
6.4.5 Applying Device Alarm Templates
Manage Alarm T
Default device alarm templates are automatically applied to linked Locations and template
settings can be modified. You can also create and apply custom device alarm templates.
emplates
To apply a custom device alarm template to a Location, you require C
Alarms permission or higher for the selected Location.
1. In Sit
es Manager navigate the Zones and Locations tree to select a Zone or a Location.
2. Select the Device Alarm Settings tab.
3. Select the row for each device alarm type you want to modify, then select Edit (or use
the right-click menu). Sort the Alarm Type column in ascending or descending order to
select a group of the same device alarm types.
4. On the Edit Device Alarm Settings window, verify you have selected the correct
Location(s).
onfigure
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Chapter 6 – Alarm Templates
5. Edit device alarm settings:
Status
De
vice alarms are only generated when status is enabled.
Device alarm template
Select the template to use for the alarm type. If multiple templates are in use, it is
recommended not to change the current template selections.
Alarm no
Alarm message or Alarm comment
6. Select Save.
More information
‣
Notification Content (page 106)
tification template
Select an available alarm notification template to use for device alarms at selected
Location. If multiple templates are in use, it is recommended not to change the
current template selections.
All device alarm notifications use content specified in viewLinc's default notification
templates. Use these fields to insert custom text in place of the [AlarmMessage] and
[Comment] macros embedded in the content templates.
6.4.6 Editing Device Alarm Templates
Manage Alarm T
Modify device alarm template settings for all Locations using a default viewLinc device alarm
template.
emplates
1. In Alarm Templates select the Device Alarms tab.
2. Select the template you want to modify, then select Edit.
3. Select View Locations to verify that changes can be applied to all Locations currently
using the template.
4. Modify editable settings.
5. Select Save.
6.4.7 Editing Location Device Alarm Settings
Manage Alarm T
Device alarm settings can be set for individual devices, or applied to several devices at one
time.
emplates
To modify device alarm settings you require C
higher for the selected Location(s).
onfigure Alarms permission or
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es Manager in theZones and Locations tree, select the Zone or Location you want to
1. In Sit
modify (CTRL+click to select multiple Zones and Locations).
2. Select the Device Alarm Settings tab, and then select one or more device alarm rows in
the grid.
3. Select Edit device alarm settings, then adjust settings in the Edit Device Alarm
Settings window:
Aected Locations
Verify that all Locations linked to this device can be updated with new device alarm
settings. If a device has multiple Locations linked to its channels, make sure that
new alarm template settings are applicable to all aected Locations.
Status
Device alarm template
Alarm notification template
Alarm message
Alarm comment
4. Select Save.
tatus is disabled, viewLinc will not initiate the specified device alarm or
If the s
device notifications.
Select a device alarm template or accept the default option provided. Device alarm
templates set the priority level for the device alarm condition, when it is issued, and
if it needs to be acknowledged. If multiple device alarms selected, it is
recommended not to change the current template selections.
Select an alarm notification template or accept the default option provided. Alarm
notification templates specify who is notified, when and how. If multiple device
alarms selected, it is recommended not to change the current template selections.
Optional) Add a descriptive message to include in notification messages. This text
(
is used in place of the [AlarmMessage] macro in the related default email templates,
or can be added to a custom email/SMS/voice template.
(Optional) Select from the list of available predefined comments, or type a custom
comment to include in notification messages. This text is used in place of the
[Comments] macro in the related default email templates, or can be added to a
custom email/SMS/voice template.
6.5 Alarm Notifica
An integral feature of the Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System is the ability to c
multiple alarming functions to ensure that you are notified as soon as conditions exceed set
parameters. Alarm events are immediately visible on a user's desktop or a remote display, and
viewLinc can also be configured to initiate audible browser alarms, deliver email, send SMS
messages (via modem or web service provider), or issue voice calls to individuals on a call tree.
Activation of web-enabled SMS and voice messaging services requires purchase
eature license keys and a service provider account.
of f
98
tions
onfigure
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