YSI Data Scout User Manual
YSI INCORPORATED
DATA SCOUT
Software for the Level Scout
OPERATIONS MANUAL
CONTENTS
1.0 Product Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile Features..................................................................................................................4
1.2 Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile Hardware ...............................................................................................................4
2.0 Installation and Setup......................................................................................................................................................5
2.1 Installing the Applications...............................................................................................................................................5
2.1.1 Installing Data Scout onto A PC...........................................................................................................................5
2.1.2 Installing Data Scout Mobile onto a Handheld PC.............................................................................................5
2.2 Connecting the Level Scout To a Computer ..................................................................................................................6
3.0 Operating Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile...............................................................................................................9
3.1 Launching, Starting, Selecting, Stopping and Exiting....................................................................................................9
3.1.1 Launch the Applications .......................................................................................................................................9
3.1.2 Starting (Discovering Transducers) ...................................................................................................................10
3.1.3 Selecting from Multiple Transducers.................................................................................................................11
3.1.4 Stopping (Forget) Transducers...........................................................................................................................11
3.1.5 Exit the Applications ...........................................................................................................................................11
3.2 Live Tab ..........................................................................................................................................................................12
3.2.1 View Live Data.....................................................................................................................................................12
3.2.2 Change Level Units..............................................................................................................................................12
3.2.3 Change Temperature Units ................................................................................................................................13
3.2.4 Zero Level or Set Fixed Offset.............................................................................................................................13
3.2.5 View or Set Scan Average Time ..........................................................................................................................14
3.3 Table Tab........................................................................................................................................................................15
3.3.1 Save Data table.....................................................................................................................................................15
3.3.2 View Data Table ..................................................................................................................................................16
3.3.3 Clear Data Table..................................................................................................................................................17
3.4 Parameters Tab ..............................................................................................................................................................17
3.4.1 Change Transducer Date and Time ...................................................................................................................17
3.4.2 Configure Alarms and Broadcasts......................................................................................................................18
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3.4.3 Change battery.....................................................................................................................................................19
3.4.4 Memory Options (erase Tests) ...........................................................................................................................20
3.4.5 Change Transducer Address...............................................................................................................................20
3.4.6 Update Firmware.................................................................................................................................................21
3.4.6.1 normal Firmware Update Method..........................................................................................................21
3.4.6.2 Alternate Firmware Update Method.......................................................................................................22
3.5 Tests Tab.........................................................................................................................................................................23
3.5.1 Time Test Tab......................................................................................................................................................23
3.5.2 Method Test Tab .................................................................................................................................................25
3.5.3 Data Test Tab.......................................................................................................................................................26
3.5.4 Control Test Tab .................................................................................................................................................26
3.5.5 Extract Tab...........................................................................................................................................................27
Section 3.5.5.1 - Extract Above Test ....................................................................................................................28
Section 3.5.5.2 - Extract Active Test ....................................................................................................................28
Section 3.5.5.3 - Pick Done Test ..........................................................................................................................28
Section 3.5.5.4 - Change Units, Scans, and Files.................................................................................................29
4.0 Support Information .....................................................................................................................................................30
4.1 Warranty.........................................................................................................................................................................30
4.2 Contact Information......................................................................................................................................................30
Ordering and Technical Support.................................................................................................................................30
Service Information......................................................................................................................................................31
4.3 Recycling.........................................................................................................................................................................31
Battery Disposal............................................................................................................................................................31
4.3 Accessories......................................................................................................................................................................32
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1.0 PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
This User Manual applies Level Scout software Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile version 2.0 and greater. These applications can be
found on the Information and Support CD which accompanied your YSI Level Scout or on the YSI website (www.ysi.com).
Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile maintain a consistent menu structure and feature set. There is, however, one difference in
appearance between the two application programs: tabs on Data Scout appear at the top of the application window and the tabs for
Data Scout Mobile appear at the bottom of the screen.
The remainder of the User Manual will use the term “applications” when referring collectively to Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile.
In addition to these two software applications, the Level Scout can also be used with a Data Scout Advanced (DSAdv). DSAdv can
operate multiple transducers concurrently on a selected serial port. DSAdv also has a useful conversion function that allows you to
correct logged data for changes in barometric pressure that are logged by a separate barometer unit (BaroScout). See the DSAdv
manual for more information.
1.1 DATA SCOUT AND DATA SCOUT MOBILE FEATURES
Data Scout 2.0 is designed for computers running versions of the Windows
(Common Language Runtime). Data Scout Mobile is designed for handheld computers running Microsoft Windows Mobile® 2003
and Windows Mobile 5 operating systems. Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile are fully functional, yet simple application programs for
the YSI Level Scout.
®
operating system supporting the Microsoft® .NET™ CLR
Key features include:
Freely available, user friendly software,
Common “look and feel” on desktop, laptop, or handheld PC,
Ability to view and log real-time data and configure tests in Level Scout transducers,
Extract logged data and save to a file, as well as
Intuitive graphical user interface.
1.2 DATA SCOUT AND DATA SCOUT MOBILE HARDWARE
For Data Scout, YSI recommends a computer with the following minimum requirements:
Windows
installed on the computer, it will be installed during the Data Scout installation process) and
An RS-232 serial port, provided either via USB adapter or DB-9 serial port.
For Data Scout Mobile, YSI recommends a handheld PC with the following minimum requirements:
Microsoft Windows Mobile® 2003 or Windows Mobile 5 Operating System,
®
98SE, 2000, XP, Vista, or 7 with version 2.0 of the .NET™ CLR installed (if .NET™ CLR is not already
3 Mb of available program memory,
2 Mb of available storage memory, and
A fully implemented RS-232 serial port capable of supporting ActiveSync and interfacing with peripheral devices.
Both the Data Scout software and Level Scout upgrades are available at no charge via the YSI website at www.ysi.com.
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2.0 INSTALLATION AND SETUP
This chapter will provide a detailed description of how to set up and install Data Scout and Data Scout Mobile.
2.1 INSTALLING THE APPLICATIONS
2.1.1 INSTALLING DATA SCOUT ONTO A PC
The Data Scout installation application is located on the CD shipped with the Level Scout. For the latest version of Data Scout, visit
the YSI website (www.ysi.com).
To install Data Scout:
1) Remove any old version of the program before installing a new version. Use the Windows’ Add and Remove
Programs Utility to properly remove the older application.
2) Unzip the setup files to a directory on the computer.
3) Double click on the Setup.exe file to start the installation process.
4) The Setup program will verify that the user wants to install Data Scout onto the computer. Confirm by clicking the
Install button on the setup page.
5) Data Scout Setup Wizard will guide the user through the installation procedure. Click the Next button at each stage
to continue.
6) Click Close when the installation completes.
A shortcut to Data Scout will be placed in the Start Menu in a YSI folder and on the desktop. A Level Scout is now able to connect to
the computer’s serial port and be configured via Data Scout.
2.1.2 INSTALLING DATA SCOUT MOBILE ONTO A HANDHELD PC
The Data Scout Mobile installation application is located on the CD that was shipped with the Level Scout. For the latest version of
Data Scout Mobile, visit the YSI website (www.ysi.com).
1) Connect the handheld device to a computer that is running the ActiveSync® application.
2) Make sure that ActiveSync® recognizes that the handheld device is properly connected and available.
3) Remove any older version of Data Scout Mobile from your desktop or laptop PC before installing the new version.
4) Unzip the setup files to a location on your PC.
5) Click on the Setup.exe icon to begin the installation.
6) The setup program verifies the user wants to install Data Scout Mobile onto computer and start the Setup Wizard.
7) The Setup Wizard guides the user through the installation procedure. Follow the direction given, and click on the Next
button at each stage to continue.
8) If the required .NET support package for the Windows Mobile operating system is not already installed on the mobile device,
you are asked to install it before the application is installed on the remote device. Click Yes.
9) If you have previously installed Data Scout Mobile, you will be asked to confirm that is should be re-installed. Click Yes.
10) You will be asked to check the screen of your handheld to ensure that no additional operations are required. After
performing any necessary steps on the handheld screen, click OK.
11) Click Close after the wizard has completed all the steps of the installation.
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The Data Scout Mobile program icon is placed in the Program folder of your handheld PC. This may be selected from the handheld’s
Start Menu. The next time you use the Start Menu, you will find a quick link to Data Scout Mobile in the bottom section of the Start
menu.
To add a permanent link to Data Scout Mobile in the top section of the Start menu, follow these steps:
1) Click on the Start Menu in the upper left hand corner of the Handheld PC desktop.
2) Click on the Settings menu item.
3) Select the Personal tab.
4) Click the Menus icon.
Windows Mobile® allows a limited number of programs to be displayed on the Start Menu. You may need to remove an existing item
from the Start menu by clearing the check box beside its name. Once this has occurred, you may place a check in the box beside Data
Scout Mobile and click OK.
Connect the Level Scout to the handheld device and configure it via Data Scout Mobile.
2.2 CONNECTING THE LEVEL SCOUT TO A COMPUTER
Connect the Level Scout to the computer using the field cable and 778 all-in-one adapter or using the 770 communications cable and
RS-485/RS-232 converter as illustrated in figure 2.1.
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Note: For SDI-12 communication, the Level
Scout’s baud rate must be set to 1200 via Data
Scout Advanced software. Be sure to use the
Transducer > Exit command when exiting
Data Scout to retain the Level Scout
communication setup.
Figure 2.1
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g
The following procedure explains how to connect the filed cable to a Level Scout:
Inspect the two o-rings on the open, battery end of the transducer to ensure they are clean and not damaged.
Remove the battery insulator strip from the Level Scout.
Look inside the cable end of the connectors to view how the two sections mate together. The two keys in the
transducer and cable are two different sizes. This is important to note to ensure proper alignment (figure 2.2).
ure 2.2
Insert the transducer housing into the cable retaining nut. Hold the transducer assembly in one hand and the cable
in the other near the retaining nut (figure 2.3).
Fi
While applying slight pressure, push the two parts together and slowly rotate the transducer assembly until the keys
Figure 2.3
align. When the keys align, the housing will slip into the retaining nut assembly an additional one inch and the
transducer will no longer rotate while the user is holding the cable.
Now that the keys are aligned and seated, grasp the transducer in one hand and the retaining nut in the other. While
applying slight pressure, push the two parts together and screw the retaining nut onto the transducer housing. Continue
threading the parts together until they are fully mated, leaving no visible gap where the retaining nut meets the transducer
housing.
The field cable incorporates an innovative vent filter that provides lifetime moisture protection for vented Level Scouts. A GORETEX®-like plug prevents water droplets from entering the filter while allowing air to pass freely to the internal silica gel desiccant. The
316 SS housed filter also provides surge protection and utilizes a compact electrical connector.
The 778 adapter provides connection from the field cable to a modem, PDA, or computer, and includes built-in conversion to RS-232
and USB as well as a DC input connector. When using the 778, you will be prompted to install drivers from the Information and
Support CD that was included with your Level Scout.
If using an older style, universal cable assembly (figure 2.4), the RS-485 communications interface to the Level Scout is terminated in a
9-pin male D-shell connector. This connector is intended to work directly with the Level Scout communication adapters 771 (RS-
232), 772 (SDI-12), and 773 (USB).
If using a 771 RS-485 to RS-232 adapter, ensure the RS-485 end of the adapter is pointed toward the transducer and the RS-232 labeled
end is connected to your PC or USB adapter.
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Figure 2.4
3.0 OPERATING DATA SCOUT AND DATA SCOUT MOBILE
This chapter describes how to operate the applications in order to fully utilize and configure the Level Scout. Before proceeding in this
chapter, install the applications as described in Section 2.
All screen shots in this chapter are of Data Scout (desktop) and so have tabs on the top of the application window. The tabs for the
Mobile application are located at the bottom of the window.
3.1 LAUNCHING, STARTING, SELECTING, STOPPING AND EXITING
3.1.1 LAUNCH THE APPLICATIONS
To start Data Scout Mobile click on the Start Menu > Programs > Data Scout Mobile.
To start Data Scout click on the Start Menu > Programs > YSI > Data Scout, or double-click on the YSI Data Scout desktop icon.
The main screen will open (Figure 3.1). Notice that the “main” form has a menu bar with two labeled menu items across the top of the
form of the application. This menu appears at the bottom of the screen for the Mobile application. Also, notice the instructions in
white type along the bottom. It prompts the user to use the Transducer menu to start looking for the transducer. If you hover your
mouse cursor over this the Welcome message or the transducer picture, a large Tooltip appears summarizing the various Start
methods. Double-clicking on the transducer picture is a short-cut to the frequently-used Previous Start method. All three Start
methods are described in the next section.
Figure 3.1
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3.1.2 STARTING (DISCOVERING TRANSDUCERS)
There are three methods for discovering transducers that are connected to the PC. To begin the discovery process, select Transducer >
Start > Complete, Selective, or Previous (Figures 3.2 and 3.3).
Complete
you connect a device. If the first attempt fails, check the connection and try again.
Selective
specify the exact ports.
Previous
time. This method is fastest for repeat connections.
–Checks all Comm Ports at all baud rates. This takes longer but should always find a device. Use this the first time
– Allows you to specify which Comm Port(s) to check. Once you start the check, a pop-up window will allow you to
– Checks the last used Comm Port and baud rate. Use this when connecting your Level Scout to the same port each
Verifying transducer connectivity and configuration may take up to 90 seconds, when using a Complete check. During this time, the
application checks all possible combinations of communication parameters so that all connected transducers will be available for
configuration. Figure 3.4 shows a transducer’s status on the information page after successful discovery. After detecting a transducer,
Data Scout changes the Level Scout’s communication rate so that data may be transferred more efficiently.
Important: The user must use the Transducer > Exit or Transducer > Stop menu to terminate the connection between the Level Scout
and Data Scout. If this is not done, the transducer will be left at Data Scout's default communication configuration instead of its initial
configuration.
Figure 3.2
Figure 3.3
Figure 3.4
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