Website uses cookies in ways described in the cookie policy (read). While using this website without changing browser settings, you agree to use cookies, and know that some data will be stored on your browsing device. Mind that that you can always change these settings. Close simex - pomiar i sterowanie Product catalogue Download Newsletter Contact Your query Simex> Articles> FAQ language: PL EN FAQ 1. Questions about MultiCon and MultiLog: 1.1. Is it possible to display 32-bit signed/unsigned integer data on MultiCon CMC display? 1.2. Is it possible to use MultiCon CMC to make average value of 3 * Pt100 inputs and retransmit this average value with 4-20 mA? 1.3. MultiCon CMC do not start properly. Black screen or progress bar is displayed continuously. Is it possible to program older/newer firmware without device menu? 1.4. Are all inputs of MultiCon CMC modules UI4, UI8, U16 and I16 galvanically insulated against each other on a same input option card? 1.5. Is it possible to read the logged and stored data from MultiCon CMC using the RS-485 and SimCorder Soft? 1.6. Is there a limitation of quantity of channels or devices the DAQ Manager is able to handle? 1.7. Is it possible to adjust the displayed value of a Pt100 temperature input on the MultiCon CMC? 1.8. Is it possible to connect the MultiCon CMC (standard version) with an external I/O-module and with a PC at one time - or it is required to use a second RS-485 (ACM module)? What is an often used application for more than one RS-485 in one MultiCon CMC? 1.9. How many relays is there available in R81 module MultiCon CMC device? Are there independent controlled relays? 1.10. Can I use DAQ Manager to connect MultiCon CMC and PC via RS-485 interface? 1.11. What is the meaning of the function “X[i] selected by Y” available as MultiCon CMC mathematical function? 1.12. Is it Modbus RTU protocol fully implemented in MultiCon CMC? 1.13. Is it possible to connect all relays together to obtain 8Amps (8x1A) load using R81 module or 20Amps (4x5A) load using R45 module of MultiCon CMC? Does this cause any thermal problems? 1.14. How to download MultiCon manual or export it to a Flashdrive? 1.15. How to configure MultiCon CMC using external PC? 1.16. What are the differences between CMC-99 and CMC-141? 1.17. Is it possible to download previously downloaded data from SRD-99 data logger once again? 1.18. What is the meaning of the parameter “Alarm state” available in “Built-in outputs“ menu of CMC devices? 1.19. How to display a flowmeter Totaliser? 1.20. How to configure PC / local network to use Java Applets and CMC? 1.21. How to load Modbus Template to a CMC? 1.22. How to set up RS-485 interface for cooperation with slave devices? 1.23. How to read data from external devices? 1.24. How to write data to external devices? 1.25. How to configure Profile/timer signal? 1.26. How to set Timer profile for free run generating of some shape? 1.27. Is there a possibility to regulate normal relays duty cycle? 1.28. How to connect the mouse and keyboard to CMC? 1.29. Is there any test programs in CMC and how to use them? 1.30. Is there a possibility to switch modules places in CMC, or their placement is permanently written in firmware? 1.31. Can the temperature measurement be displayed in °F? 1.32. Is it possible to control thresholds of the relay remotely? 1.33. How to make "Zero" (Tara) function for electronic scale based on CMC? 1.34. Is there any MultiCon Demo available I could run and test it before placing my order for this device? 1.35. How to download / add your own manual? 1.36. How to minimize the influence of interferences on the high frequency signal delivered to the FT module using long wires? 1.37. How to use SSR driver output together with PID controller? 1.38. How to make Java Applets work properly with CMC 1.39. How to make simple totalizer which will add samples since powering up CMC? 1.40. Why does current measurement in DAQ Manager are not refreshing? 2. Questions about other devices: 2.1. How to remove “Write protect” is such devices as SIAi, SCK (equipped with reset switch)? 2.2. Is it galvanic separation Input / Output for the SRS-U/4 and SRS-2/4 converters? 2.3. Are the drivers for the SRS-U/4-Z45 that can be downloaded from your homepage compatible with Windows7 32 and 64 bits versions? 2.4. In data sheet of SGS-61 there are two data about isolation's voltage. One is 2.5kV and other in technical data is 750V. Whitch one is correct? 2.5. In your formula for the SLIK you refer to LM and LW, what are these values referring to? 2.6. Is there a way to configure the SLIK-94 so that the relay 2, 3 and 4 threshold values are not shown (that is, only relay 1 threshold value is shown in Quick Access View)? 2.7. Which one software allows to configure devices via RS-485 interface? Is it possible to use “SimCorder Soft” to doing it? Multicon CMC, MultiLog SRD Update: 10.10.2013 1.1. Q: Is it possible to display 32-bit signed/unsigned integer data on MultiCon CMC display? 1.1. A: Yes. MultiCon CMC can read/process data in formats: 16 bit signed/unsigned integer 32 bit signed/unsigned integer 32 bit float Single MultiCon CMC channel is able to display 5 digits only (in most display modes). To display longer data it is required to divide it into 2 or 3 logical channels using mathematical functions and display result as separate parts (units, thousands, millions). 1.2. Q: Is it possible to use MultiCon CMC to make average value of 3 * Pt100 inputs and retransmit this average value with 4-20 mA? 1.2. A: Yes. To gain an average of 3 channels use a mathematical function: You can use a function Mean X[i] and select the input channels (logical channels which reads data from your Pt100 sensors), on the output you obtain a mean value of all three inputs, You can also use a Sum X[i] and select the channels to be added, next simply divide the result by 3 - on the out there will also be an average value of all three channels. To convert the result into a 4-20mA output, use "Build in outputs" menu and choose one of current outputs, then set the logical channel for controlling the out and simply enter the "characteristic" - the input value (temperature) for out=4mA, and for out=20mA. If you e.g. set 0°C=4mA, and 100°C=20mA then if your average temp = 0°C the out gives 4mA, if T=50°C then output current is 12mA, and of course 20mA, for 100°C. 1.3. Q: MultiCon CMC do not start properly. Black screen or progress bar is displayed continuously. Is it possible to program older/newer firmware without device menu? 1.3. A: If system is crashed and progress bar (full) is showed, and main firmware do not run then low level update method can be used: Insert FlashDrive with upgrade files into USB port of MultiCon CMC device, Power MultiCon CMC down, Press left upper corner of MultiCon CMC Touch-screen and power MultiCon CMC up, While device runs and first screen is visible (without progress bar) release left upper corner and press quickly (max. 0.2 to 0.5 second delays) a sequence: right upper corner of Touch-screen, right bottom corner of Touch-screen, left bottom corner of Touch-screen. CMC-99 then start updating, Finally device runs normally. UP 1.4. Q: Are all inputs of MultiCon CMC modules UI4, UI8, U16 and I16 galvanically insulated against each other on a same input option card? 1.4. A: No, UI4, UI8, U16 and I16 modules are insulated from MultiCon CMC internal circuits but inputs on single module ARE NOT insulated one from another (their GND are connected together). 1.5. Q: Is it possible to read the logged and stored data from MultiCon CMC using the RS-485 and SimCorder Soft? 1.5. A: No, there is dedicated software DAQ Manager designed for downloading data from MultiCon CMC and preparing reports. 1.6. Q: Is there a limitation of quantity of channels or devices the DAQ Manager is able to handle? 1.6. A: Theoretically there is no limitation for number of MultiCon CMC serving by DAQ Manager. But in fact the more devices (data stored by DAQ Manager) the slower DAQ Manager processing will be. 1.7. Q: Is it possible to adjust the displayed value of a Pt100 temperature input on the MultiCon CMC? 1.7. A: Yes, displayed value can be adjusted using “Scaling” option available in “Input channels” menu. 1.8. Q: Is it possible to connect the MultiCon CMC (standard version) with an external I/O-module and with a PC at one time – or it is required to use a second RS-485 (ACM module)? What is a often used application for more than one RS-485 in one MultiCon CMC? 1.8. A: Standard version (without ACM module) can work as a single MASTER or a SLAVE. In extended version (with ACM module) there are 3 x RS-485 interface available and each of them can work independently as a MASTER or SLAVE. In the typical application MultiCon CMC is the MASTER for external I/O modules, and the SLAVE for a PC, which means ACM module is required. 1.9. Q: How many relays is there available in R81 module MultiCon CMC device? Are there independent controlled relays? 1.9. A: There is 8 relays available in R81 module. All of them can be controlled independently but some of them have common terminals. Relays R5 and R6 are both connected to the terminal 11 (it is their common terminal). Similarly relays R7 and R8 are both connected to the terminal 14 and this is their common terminal. 1.10. Q: Can I use DAQ Manager to connect MultiCon CMC and PC via RS-485 interface? 1.10. A: No. To read data from MultiCon CMC via RS-485 you have to use another application, e.g. SimCorder Soft. DAQ Manager is only for visualisation of recorded data, however it can display a current measurements, but it requires a direct connection with MultiCon CMC via ETHERNET to serve this function. 1.11. Q: What is the meaning of the function “X[i] selected by Y” available as MultiCon CMC mathematical function 1.11. A: This is a multiplexer. User can select the range of input Logic channels X[i], and log.chan. Y decides which channel of X[i] is switched to the output. Simply example: Log.ch.1, Log.ch.2, Log.ch.3, Log.ch.4 are selected as input X range and Log.ch. 5 as a switch driver (Y). Due to a MultiCon CMC uses a floating point values (not integers) it requires of strictly defined ranges. In the table below a simplified mathematical description is used, so in fact Multiplexer selects X[i] as follows: Y value (Log.ch. 5 value) Output Y ≤ 0 Log.ch.1 0 < Y ≤ 1 Log.ch.2 1 < Y ≤ 2 Log.ch.3 2 < Y ≤ 3 Log.ch.4 Selecting channel Y be careful that its value is exact, the best it should be a manual setpoint. 1.12. Q: Is it Modbus RTU protocol fully implemented in MultiCon CMC? 1.12. A: Modbus RTU protocol is not fully implemented in the MultiCon CMC. Functions 3, 4, 6 and 16 (10 Hex) of Modbus RTU protocol are available only. 1.13. Q: Is it possible to connect all relays together to obtain 8Amps (8x1A) load using R81 module or 20Amps (4x5A) load using R45 module of MultiCon CMC? Does this cause any thermal problems? 1.13. A: There are simply electromechanical relays with more than 5A max load (for R45 module) or more than 1A (for R81 module). There are no heating, but it is strongly recommended not to switch full load (e.g. every 1 second) for a long time. Due to construction of this modules it is IMPOSSIBLE to connect all relays together to obtain 20Amps (8A respectively) - the delays between particular relays cause non-uniform division of in-rush currents what can damage module. 1.14. Q: How to download user manual, available in CMC-99/141 devices (in pdf format) or export it to a Flashdrive? 1.14. A: To export user manual into flash disk, use “Export manual” button available in „Device information” menu. 1.15. Q: How to configure MultiCon CMC using external PC? UP 1.15. A: To enable the configuration of the MultiCon CMC with an external computer, follow these steps: Download free “Xming” software from: http://sourceforge.net/projects/xming/files/Xming/6.9.0.31/Xming-6-9-0-31-setup.exe/download Install “Xming” on your PC using default settings. During installation enable “Create a desktop icon for “Xming” option and disable “Launch Xming” option. After installation of the "Xming" use the right mouse button to open the properties window for desktop icons of the "Xming" and replace the “--ac -kb -notrayicon -screen 0 320x240+900+400” with “-ac -screen 0 320x240+300+300”, then close the window properties and run “Xming” using desktop icon. In “Network settings” of the MultiCon CMC device in the group "Remote Display" enter the IP address of your computer and “Screen number”=0, then exit menu and save configuration changes. In the “Device information” menu press “Remote display” button and confirm switching to remote display. After a while the device screen will be redirected to your computer screen. 1.16. Q: What are the differences between CMC-99 and CMC-141? 1.16. A: CMC-141 is equivalent to the CMC-99 device in a larger housing (144x144x100mm instead 96x96x100mm) and a larger touch screen. Using a larger housing allows to equip the CMC-141 unit in modules with increased (50%) number of inputs and outputs of measurement and control. 1.17. Q: Is it possible to download previously downloaded data from SRD-99 data logger once again? 1.17. A: Yes it is possible, but you have to use “LoggySoft” software connected to SRD-99 via RS-485. While downloading data to the USB flash disk the last downloaded data is automatically marked in a SRD, so it is not possible to download it again to USB disk. Similar marking is used when data is downloaded directly to a PC using RS-485 connection, but it is possible to ignore markers using “LoggySoft” software. In the newest version the method can be as follow: Go to "Devices" tab and press " Show advanced options" button - password is : "srd system", Uncheck "Auto" options for downloading date, Date combobox will appear, Set proper date, since when you would like to download the data, Press "Download data (RS485)" button and wait until all the data is downloaded from SRD - it can takes few minutes or more, depending on how much data have to be downloaded. 1.18. Q: What is the meaning of the parameter “Alarm state” available in “Built-in outputs“ menu of CMC devices? 1.18. A: Alarm state of source channel can inform about few events, e.g.: sensor error, too high/low value or no response (via RS-485). In such situations device has to know how to set the output. For example: relay in alarm state, may be set to defined state (open/close) or remain unchanged. Similarly current output in alarm state, can generate defined value or remain unchanged. 1.19. Q: How to display a flowmeter Totaliser? 1.19. A: Select one logical channel and switch it in "hardware input" mode, Select and configure input for measurement of the current flow using “Source” and “Configure source” options, Select another logical channel and switch it in "Data from other channel" mode,”, Set “Source” parameter by selection of the channel previously configured (see step 1), Set “Quantity” parameter as “Balance” Although this mechanism seems to be complicated, allows to prevent multiple configuration of the current flow input if two different logical channels use the same physical input (e.g. one for display current flow and second for totaliser). 1.20. Q: How to configure PC / local network to use Java Applets and CMC? 1.20. A: Port 502 should be enabled (added to exception list) in firewall settings. If CMC does not have external IP address assigned (e.g. NAT is used) proper redirection of port 502 should be made on a router/gateway in CMC's network. Additionally, on PC should be installed JRE in version greater or equal 1.6.0_27 (applets has not been tested on JRE 1.7). JMulticon applet certificate should be accepted to launch it. 1.21. Q: How to load Modbus template to a CMC? 1.21. A: Download Modbus templates from www.simex.pl website, Unpack them and copy to a flashdrive, plug the flashdrive into CMC USB plug, Enter CMC menu: "File management" → "Configuration Files" → "Load modbus template", Select template to be copied into CMC, and press apply button. UP 1.22. Q: How to set up RS-485 interface for cooperation with slave devices? 1.22. A: Load Modbus templates to a CMC, Enter CMC menu: “Modbus”, and select desired port number, Set the port configuration: Mode: MASTER Baud rate: usually 9600 bit./sek. Format: 8N1 Request Timeout: 1 sek. Press "SLAVE devices" button, Select “MODBUS address” of the desired device. Simex factory setting is "255" for devices with display, or "254" for DIN-rail mounted devices (check manual of the device to select correct address). Press "Load device template", and select proper modbus template form the list, If you want to connect more devices repeat the procedure from point 5. 1.23. Q: How to read data from external devices? 1.23. A: Set up RS-485 interface (e.g. MB1) as MASTER for cooperation with slave devices, Enter CMC menu: ”Device configuration” → “Logical Channels”, Select logical channel to be used for reading external data and configure it as follows: Mode: Modbus Port: e.g. MB1 (MASTER) SLAVE device: according to desired slave device address Device input: according to desired slave device register number Configure other settings of logical channel. 1.24. Q: How to write data to external devices? 1.24. A: 1) Enter Modbus menu and choose port 1 2) Configure port as follows: Mode: MASTER Baud rate: 9600 bits/sec. (example of a value depending on external device) Format: 8N1 (depending on external device) Request timeout: 1 sec. Request retrials: 3 3) Press SLAVES devices button and choose Modbus address according to external device specification, e.g. 30 4) Set Device type on defined 5) Press Output list and configure output channel as follows: Output active: yes Control type: as a linear output Enter Output register parameter: Register number: 4h (register number in which the data should be written) Data format: 32 bits, float (example of a value depending on external device) 32-bit reading: two 16-bit registers (example of a value depending on external device) Ordering: ABCD (standard) (example of a value depending on external device) 6) Go back to SLAVE devices menu and set: Blocks config.mode: automatically Max. block size: 20 (example of a value depending on external device) 7) Leave Modbus menu and enter External outputs menu 8) Choose from list in upper right screen corner: MB1:Addr.30:Out.1:analog, and then: From list in Source parameter choose logical channel whose value will be written in external device Input levels → Lower level: 0 Input levels → Upper level: 0 Output levels → Lower level: 100 Output levels → Upper level: 100 Alarm level → 100 1.25. Q: How to configure Profile/timer signal? 1.25. A: In Profiles/timers menu enter Section list submenu. To add new section in signal press green plus button in bottom left screen corner. Parameters Duration and Unit determines the time in which the section will be generated. Shape parameter defines shape of the section. Final value parameter defines section value after expiration of its time. It is also initial value for the next section. Triggered profile will generate consecutive sections according to their parameters. Also in Profiles/timers menu there is the Idle value parameter. It defines signal value when profile is not triggered? 1.26. Q: How to set Timer profile for free run generating of some shape? 1.26. A: 1) Enter Profiles/timers menu 2) Select desired Profile/timer and configure it as follows: Triggering mode: on time Triggering times: Months: All Days: All Week days: All Hours: All Minutes: All Seconds: All In Section list submenu configure desired signal shape Looping: infinite In Return to position parameter set first position on list 3) Leave Profiles/timers menu and enter Logical channels menu 4) Select desired Logical channel and configure it as follows: Mode: Profile/timer In Source parameter set previously configured Profile/timer UP 1.27 Q: Is there a possibility to regulate normal relays duty cycle? 1.27 A: Yes. But user should pay attention that relays has minimal ON and OFF time which is 1 second. If user will try to change relay state more often than once per second it will cause an extension of current state to 1 second, which will cause an unexpected work of the device. Configuration examples, which allows to regulate normal relays duty cycle are shown bellow: Example A: 1) Configure Profile/timer as it is shown in question above with these differences: Idle value: 0 Section list: Section num. 1: Duration: 100 (by changing this parameter, user can define period of PWM) Unit: second: Shape: slope Final value: 100 Section num. 2: Duration: 0 Unit: second Shape: const.value Final value: 0 2) Enter Logical channels menu 3) Choose a Logical channel and configure it as follows: Name: Source of PWM's Time Base Mode: Profile/timer Source: Profile/timer that was just configured Graph low: 0 Graph high: 100 4) Choose next Logical channel and configure it as follows: Name: Duty cycle Mode: Set point value Unit: % Edit button: enabled (by setting a value in this button on data panel, user can define duty cycle) Format: numeric Graph low: 0 Graph high: 100 5) Enter Built-in outputs menu 6) Choose desired Relay and configure it as follows: Mode: below level Source: logical channel named Source of PWM's Time Base Level mode: channel Level: logical channel named Duty cycle Hysteresis: 0 Example B: 1) Enter Logical channels menu 2) Choose a Logical channel and configure it as follows: Name: Source of PWM's Time Base Mode: Hardware input Source: Inp.X3 : Demo Configure source: Mode: triangle Low Limit: 0 High Limit: 100 Min.simulated val.: 0 Max.simulated val.: 100 Period: 100 (by changing this parameter, user can define period of PWM) Rise time: 100 (by changing this parameter user can define position of high state in PWM) Graph low: 0 Graph high: 100 3) Choose next Logical channel and configure it as follows: Name: Duty cycle Mode: Set point value Unit: % Edit button: enabled (by setting a value in this button on data panel, user can define duty cycle) Graph low: 0 Graph high: 100 4) Enter Built-in outputs menu 5) Choose desired Relay and configure it as follows: Mode: below level Source: logical channel named Source of PWM's period Level mode: channel Level: logical channel named Duty cycle Hysteresis: 0 Also, in both examples, the logical channel named Duty cycle can be replaced by logical channel with regulator output data. Value of that signal will regulate the Duty cycle. 1.28 Q: How to connect the mouse and keyboard to CMC? 1.28 A: If it is USB mouse or keyboard, just simply plug it in to the USB socket. If user want to connect mouse and keyboard there are two ways to do that. If CMC has two USB sockets, then user should plug mouse to front USB and keyboard to back USB or in the opposite way. Second way to plug mouse and keyboard to CMC is first connect USB HUB, then mouse and keyboard to the HUB. 1.29 Q: Is there any test programs in CMC and how to use them? 1.29 A: There are no test programs in CMC. 1.30 Q: Is there a possibility to switch modules places in CMC, or their placement is permanently written in firmware? 1.30 A: Yes. But it can be done only by an authorized service. If user will do it by himself, warranty will be lost. Modules are identified automatically when device starts, but after that switch, there are also changes on the input/output lists, which affects the logical channels configuration. In other words, user should correct the configuration after switching modules. 1.31 Q: Can the temperature measurement be displayed in °F? 1.31 A: All temperature measurements in CMC are made in Centigrades. To rescale this measurements to degrees Fahrenheit user should use formula which is shown below: TF = 1.8xTC + 32, where: TF – temperature in °F, TC – temperature in °C Lets assume that our temperature range is from -50˚C to 85˚C (but this range is arbitrary). In that case: enter desired Logical channel menu, Scale parameter set as linear, enter Configure scaling submenu, in Output unit parameter write °F, in Input value parameter for Point 1 block write: -50 (which is low range limit), in Output value parameter for Point 1 block write: -58 (according to the formula TF), in Input value parameter for Point 2 block write: 85 (which is low range limit), in Output value parameter for Point 2 block write: 185 (according to the formula TF), 1.32 Q: Is it possible to control thresholds of the relay remotely? 1.32 A: Yes. To make it possible it is required to select thresholds (Menu -> Device configuration -> Built-in outputs -> Relay.n -> Level mode -> channel) as logical channels which are not a constant values. Then selected logical channels can be used to easily change thresholds of the relay. The logical channels used as Thresholds can be then controlled via Modbus or can be simple Setpoints controlled from the screen of the device. 1.33. Q: How to make "Zero" (Tara) function for electronic scale based on CMC? 1.33. A: Example of a solution is shown bellow: Hardware configuration CMC-99/141: slot A -> current input module 0-20 mA Software configuration: Enter the Logical channels menu (MENU -> Device configuration -> Logical channels). Configure four logical channels as follows: Logical channel 1 Name: Button Mode: Set point value Edit button: enabled Format: binary Button mode: monostable On-state text: TARE Logical channel 2 Name: Current Weight Mode: Hardware input Source: Inp. A1 : Current enter to the Configuration source menu Mode: 4-20 mA Scaling: linear enter to the Configuration scaling menu Output unit: kg In Point 1 parameter block: Input value: 4 mA Output value: 0 kg In Point 2 parameter block: Input value: 20 mA Output value: 1000 kg Graph low: 0 kg Graph high: 1000 kg Logical channel 3 Name: Tare Weight Mode: Hardware input Source: Inp. A1 : Current In Latch parameter block: Mode: from log. channel Triggering source: Log.ch. 1:”Button” Scaling: linear enter to the Configuration scaling menu Output unit: kg In Point 1 parameter block: Input value: 4 mA Output value: 0 kg In Point 2 parameter block: Input value: 20 mA Output value: 1000 kg Graph low: 0 kg Graph high: 1000 kg Logical channel 4 Name: Nett Weight Mode: Math function enter to the Function menu Function: X-Y Source X: Log.ch. 2:”Current Weight” Type of source Y: channel Source Y: Log.ch. 3:”Tare Weight” Graph low: 0 Graph high: 1000 Exit this menu and enter to the Groups menu Choose one of the Groups (e.g. Group 1) Name: Weight measure Slot 1: Log.ch. 1:”Button” Slot 2: Log.ch. 2:”Current Weight” Slot 3: Log.ch. 3:”Tare Weight” Slot 4: Log.ch. 4:”Nett Weight” Slot 5: disabled Slot 6: disabled Exit and save configuration. The block diagram Weight measure configuration 1.34 Q: Is there any MultiCon Demo available I could run and test it before placing my order for this device? 1.34 A: Yes, we have released the MultiCon Emulator software for this purpose. This software allows you to run on your computer screen a virtual MultiCon and familiarize yourselves with its functionality completely free of charge. The MultiCon Emulator is an accurate representation of the actual equipment. In order to test measurement inputs it has been equipped with the virtual measurement and relay output source. A full-featured recording module allows you to write data on the virtual drive and then send them on to a USB flash drive or DAQ Manager directly using TCP protocol. MultiCon Emulator - free download MultiCon Emulator - Quick Guide 1.35 Q: How to download / add your own manual? 1.35 A: The user can download manual directly from the MultiCon device as well as add your own manual to MultiCon. The ways to download / add manuals are described in enclosed pdf file. 1.36 Q: How to minimize the influence of interferences on the high frequency signal delivered to the FT module using long wires? 1.36 A: Commonly known problem with disturbances in long wires. In the FT module, you can not set software filtering, especially when you got quite high input freq. However proper wiring helps very much. So few advices: Use shielded twisted pairs. Very often we use UTP-5 (ethernet cable) Connect shields and all unused wires to GND (or common), but only on the CMC, do not create a loop to avoid disturbances Use one twisted pair (one of four in UTP cable) for delivering power supply to the sensor, Use another twisted pair to deliver both: SIGNAL and GND of the signal to FT - this is a key thing, you must use separate wires to deliver supply GND and Signal GND (connected to COM on FT module). You can not short GND to COM directly on the CMC. Using such trick, you obtain a differential signal line, which has much higher immunity to EM disturbances. 1.37 Q: How to use SSR driver output together with PID controller? 1.37 A: Logical channel operating as PID controller generates "analog" output signal. This signal can be limited to range suitable for used output. On the other hand all built-in outputs has settings allowing to fit them to source signal (see settings of SSR or Current outputs). It is user's responsibility to choose correct limitation of PID output (as well as other PID settings), but important is to set limitation range wide enough to obtain smooth controlling of actuator, and narrow enough to make PID as fast as possible. Due to fact that choosing of PID controller is not matter of the task, we can assume that PID output range is set as 0-100. To set this, user should enter Controller menu, select requested controller and in Controller output parameters block set: Offset: 0, Low output limit: 0, High output limit: 100, Other PID controller settings depends only on application. Lets assume that user has to use TC signal (K) for temperature measurement (module TC4 installed in slot A) and SSR output driver (module S8 installed in slot C) to control a heater keeping set temperature of the object. Lets assume that temperature setpoint can be set between 120 and 200°C. To realise this task user needs at least 3 logical channels and 1 set of Controller settings. Logical channel 1 – Measurement of temperature, Logical channel 2 – Setpoint of temperature, Logical channel 3 – PID controller, Controller 1 – a settings of PID controller which runs in channel 3, There are few basic, well known methods described in the literature to choose P, I and D parameters optimal for the controlled process. If user is not familiar with these methods, also some exemplary values can be used, suitable for demonstration of PID work process controlling slow processes (like heating 1liter of water using 1000 Watt heater). Mode: PID, Dead zone: 0, for Controller parameters block parameters: P Coefficient: 5, I coefficient: 10, D coefficient: 1, Differentiated signal: feedback (measured), for Controller output block parameters: Offset: 0, Low output limit: 0, High output limit: 100, for Initial conditions block parameters: Init type: No init (internal state 0), The logical channels used for this example should be set as follow: Logical channel 1 : Name: Temperature, Mode: Hardware input, Source: Inp. A1 (we assume that built-in input is connected and set properly for TC type K), Precision: 0, Graph Lo: 0, Graph Hi: 300, all other parameters should be on default settings, Logical channel 2: Name: Desired temp., Mode: Set point value, Unit:°C, Edit Button: enabled, Edit range low: 120, Edit range high: 200, Precision: 0, Graph Lo: 0, Graph Hi: 300, all other parameters should be on default settings, Logical channel 3: Name: PID controller, Mode: Controller, Controller num: 1.PID:"Controller 1", Set point channel: Log.ch. 2:"Desired temp", Feedback channel: Log.ch. 1:"Temperature", Precision: 0, Graph Lo: 0, Graph Hi: 300, all other parameters should be on default settings, The last thing to do is set of SSR output. Enter to the Device configuration menu, then Built-in outputs and select Output: Out.C1 : SSR. In this output set parameters as follows: Mode: PWM Source: Log.ch. 3:"PID controller", Level mode: value, Lower level: 0, Upper level: 100, Alarm level: 0 / heater off if any error occurs/, Period: 10sec, Minimum ON-Time: 0, Minimum OFF-Time: 0, 1.38 Q: How to make Java Applets work properly with CMC 1.38 A: We have noticed that users which use JVM (Java Virtual Machine) in version 1.6.0.45 or higher has problems with Java Applets available by the CMC. Best and easiest way to solve this problem is to update the device's firmware to version 3.16.0 or newer. Since then Java Applets will work properly both to those users who uses JVM in version 1.6 as well as those who uses it in version 1.7. For those users who can not or do not want to make this update it is recommended to go back to JVM in version 1.6.0.43. To do this: Uninstall Java environment which is currently installed. Install Java Runtime Environment 1.6.0.43 (32-bit) which can be downloaded here: http://www.filehippo.com/download_jre_32/tech/14478/ Disable Java updates. To do this: go to Control Panel ⇒ Java (32-bit), select Update tab, uncheck "Check for updates automatically" and on the prompt window click “Never Check” button, select Advanced tab, click JRE-Auto-Download → click Never Auto-Download, for some newer browsers versions (e.g. Firefox ver. 20) "Java (TM) Platform SE 6 U43 6.0.430.1" plugin may not appear. If so, copy npjp2.dll file: z C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre6\bin\plugin2\ do C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre6\bin\dtplugin\ if plugin is visible but disabled, click the icon in front of URL and do as follows: https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/how-to-enable-java-if-its-been-blocked 1.39 Q: How to make simple totalizer which will add samples since powering up CMC? 1.39 A: To realize this problem we need device which is equipped with a measurement module (in our case it will be UI8). Also we should memorize that CMC processes channels sequentially ie from first to last and full cycle takes 100ms which makes this task easy but when the measurement is scaled in m3/s flow at the end we have to divide it by 10. We should configure four logical channels as follows: 1. Logical channel 1 Name: Measurement 1 Mode: Hardware input Source: Inp.A1 : Current 2. Logical channel 2 Name: Unscaled totalizer Mode: Math function Function: Function: Sum X[i] Source X: logical channels 1 and 3 X error handling: skip erroneous channels 3. Logical channel 3 Name: Feedback Mode: Data from other channel Source: Log.ch. 2:”Unscaled totalizer” 4. Logical channel 4 Name: Scaled totalizer Mode: Data from other channel Source: Log.ch.2.:”Unscaled totalizer” Scaling: linear Configure scaling: Unit: m3/s Point 1: Input value: 0 Output value: 0 Point 2: Input value: 10 Output value: 1 This easy configuration does not allow to reset this totalizer. To ensure this possibility we need to do little change in Logical channel 2 configuration and add four new Logical channels: 1. Logical channel 2 Name: Unscaled totalizer Mode: Math function Function: Function: Sum X[i] Source X: logical channels 7 and 8 X error handling: skip erroneous channels 2. Logical channel 5 Name: RESET Mode: Set point value Edit button: enable Button mode: bistable Format: binary 3. Logical channel 6 Name: n_reset Mode: Data from other channel Source: Log.ch.5:”RESET” Scaling: linear Configure scaling: Point 1: Input value: 0 Output value: 1 Point 2: Input value: 1 Output value: 0 4. Logical channel 7 Name: Measurement hold Mode: Math function Function: Function: X * Y Type of source X: channel Source X: Log.ch.1:”Measurement 1” Type of source Y: channel Source Y: Log.ch.6:”n_reset” 5.Logical channel 8 Name: Measurement hold Mode: Math function Function: Function: X * Y Type of source X: channel Source X: Log.ch.3:”Feedback” Type of source Y: channel Source Y: Log.ch.6:”n_reset” This way configured totalizer can reset and hold counting total flow while the RESET button is pressed on. Depending on user's needs not all configured channels must be displayed (in order to make measurements clear). Suggested channels to display are: channel 1 (which contains actual measurement), channel 2 and/or 3 (which contains unscaled and scaled total flow) and channel 5 (which contains RESET button). 1.40 Q: Why does current measurement in DAQ Manager are not refreshing? 1.40 A: The only reason of such effect is incorrect data coding in the UNIT configuration while using “Xming” program. Some signs (especially diacritical signs i.e. ą, É, ö, Ï etc.) which were entered from the hardware keyboard (through Xming) are being send in incompatible standard. This causes errors in data generated by the device and consequently stops refreshing of Current measurements. To avoid this problem, after installation of "Xming" use the right mouse button to open the properties window for desktop icons of the "Xming" and replace the “-multiwindow” with phrase “-ac -kb -notrayicon -screen 0 320x240+900+400”. See also: question 1.15 OTHER DEVICES UP 2.1. Q: How to remove "Write protect" in such devices as SIAi, SCK (equipped with reset switch)? 2.1. A: To remove "Write protect" setting you must proceed a "FORCING OF ADDRESS FFh" function using reset switch. This function allows to force basic parameters (address, speed, write protect) to its default values . Please remember to set new address and speed after this function. 2.2. Q: Is it galvanic separation Input / Output, for the SRS-U/4 and SRS-2/4 converters? 2.2. A: Yes, both our converters SRS 2/4 and SRS U/4 have optical separation between output and input. 2.3. Q: Are the drivers for the SRS-U/4-Z45 that can be downloaded from your homepage compatible with Windows7 32 and 64 bits versions? 2.3. A: Yes, drivers available on our homepage are compatible with both Win7 32 and 64 bit 2.4. Q: In data sheet of SGS-61 there are two data about isolation's voltage. One is 2.5kV and other in technical data is 750V. Whitch one is correct? 2.4. A: Both values are correct. Higher value 2.5kV is test voltage, which is used while tests during production (short time pulses or surge), and 750V is permissible constant difference (DC shift) between input and output sides of SGS-61. Note, that SGS-61 mustn’t be used as equipment for safety circuits, and given voltage is a strength of functional insulation only. 2.5. Q: In your formula for the SLIK you refer to LM and LW, what are these values referring to? 2.5. A: LM and LW are internal counters. LM - main counter, LW - pre-counter. Pre-counter is a modulo counter that is cleared when reaches number of pulses equal to DIV factor (e.g. pulses per revolution for some encoder) and then Main counter is incremented by 1. In other words LW is used to determine the "position" of encoder (fractional part of single revolution ), while LM remembers integer number of revolutions of the encoder. When MUL is bigger than DIV then content of LW has direct influence to displayed result, so the formula given in manual contains all the prescaler factors and both counters (LM and LW). 2.6. Q: Is there a way to configure the SLIK-94 so that the relay 2, 3 and 4 threshold values are not shown (that is, only relay 1 threshold value is shown in "Quick Access View")? 2.6. A: "Quick Access View" enables/disables possibility of change the setpoints values (thresholds) without knowing the password. Regardless of ArEL2 to ArEL4 setting of SECu menu, setpoints of all relays are displayed and this function can not be switched off. Due to this feature, if ArEL2 to ArEL4 are set to "oFF" then, you can check setpoints of REL2 - REL4 but can't change them. 2.7. Q: Which one software allows to configure devices via RS-485 interface? Is it possible to use “SimCorder Soft” to doing it? 2.7. A: "SimCorder Soft” software is not designed to configure devices but it allows to visualize, archive and print of measurements (e.g. temperature, humidity, pressure). To configure devices via RS-485 it is recommended to use „SMConfig” software. UP printable version Indicators / controllers Data recorders Counters Sensors / transmitters Converters Power supplies Isolators Power industry Software Shortcuts Products Events Articles Publications SIMEX Sp. z o.o. ul. Wielopole 11 80-556 Gdańsk Poland tel. (+48 58) 76-20-777 fax (+48 58) 76-20-770 inquiry@simex.pl Product catalogue Services Download Newsletter Conditions of Use About company Contact FAQ Privacy policy Site map Copyright © SIMEX 2014