Indigo Software Guide

INDIGO+ INTERNATIONAL

IIMS SOFTWARE GUIDE

25/05/00

ContentsContentsContentsContents

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CONTENTS

1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1–1

1.1 Overview of operation 1–1

1.2 Application and features 1–3

1.3 Basic operations 1–3

2 MASTER STATION SET-UP AND SECURITY ACCESS 2–1

2.1 Starting the master station for the first time 2–1

2.2 Setting up users 2–2

2.3 Starting the master station normally 2–5

2.4 Changing your password 2–6

2.5 Logging out 2–7

2.6 Quitting the program 2–8

2.7 The master station screen 2–8

2.8 Changing the font 2–10

2.9 Using the program 2–11

3 SCHEMES 3–1

3.1 About schemes 3–1

3.2 Viewing and printing scheme details 3–4

3.3 Creating and editing schemes 3–5

3.4 Starting a new scheme 3–6

3.5 Loading a scheme to edit 3–8

3.6 Selecting and defining saving scheme elements 3–9

3.7 Loading existing elements into a scheme 3–11


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4 TARIFFS APPLICATIONS 4–1

4.1 Defining tariffs 4–1

4.2 Defining day patterns 4–2

4.3 Setting tariff indication relays 4–6

4.4 Configuring maximum demand registers 4–7

4.5 Setting season information 4–9

4.6 Setting exclusion dates 4–11

4.7 Latent tariffs 4–12

4.8 Billing periods 4–13

5 SEQUENCES CLOCK SETTINGS 5–1

5.1 Display sequences 5–1

5.2 Menu sequence 5–4

5.3 Clock settings 5–6

6 COMMUNICATION AND INPUT/OUPUT FUNCTIONS 6–1

6.1 Communications 6–1

6.2 Metering 6–4

6.3 Output relay functions 6–7

6.4 Auxiliary input registers 6–8

6.5 Synchronising integration periods 6–10

6.6 Meter communications 6–11

6.7 Communicating with local meters 6–11

6.8 Communicating with remote meters 6–15

7 SOFTWARE SPECIAL FUNCTIONS 7–1

7.1 Fast program 7–1

7.2 Fast read 7–2

7.3 Calibrating Meters 7–3


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7.4 Commissioning meters 7–5

7.5 Read response file 7–6

7.6 CHIRPS 7–7

7.7 Setting Options 7–8

7a METER LIST FUNCTIONS 7a–1

7a.1 Maintaining the Meter List 7a–1

7a.2 Adding a single meter to the meter list 7a–2

7a.3 Adding a group of meters to the meter list 7a–4

7a.4 Editing meter information 7a–6

7a.5 Searching the meter list 7a–7

7b DATA HANDLING OPERATING DESCRIPTIONS 7b–1

7b.1 Importing and exporting meter information 7b–1

7b.2 Meter passwords 7b–3

7b.3 File management 7b–3

7b.4 Opening a saved file 7b–4

7b.5 Importing scheme information from a different directory 7b–5

7b.6 Exporting scheme files or elements 7b–6

7b.7 Saving information as text 7b–7

7b.8 Copying to the clipboard 7b–8

7b.9 Printing data 7b–8

7b.10 Print preview 7b–9

7b.11 Selecting and setting-up the printer 7b–10

7b.12 Printing scheme, meter, or interval data 7b–11

7b.13 Viewing data 7b–12

General InformationGeneral InformationGeneral InformationGeneral Information

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1 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 OVERVIEW OF OPERATION

The principal operations performed through the Master Station are:

• Creating and managing meter schemes

• Programming meters

• Reading meters

• Managing a meter list

• Managing security

These are outlined below.

Most operations are carried out using standard Windows menus and dialogue boxes.In the case of setting up tariff rate switching, there is a choice of using tables ordragging and dropping a graphical display. Generally, the information required in thevarious dialogue boxes is fairly self-explanatory, but is nevertheless described in theappropriate sections of this help system. The program will not accept invalid entries,and items that are not relevant to a particular operation are ‘greyed out’ according tostandard Windows practice in order to make them unavailable.

Creating and Managing Meter Schemes

A scheme defines the major part of a meter’s configuration, including the basicmeasurement type, rate-switching patterns, display sequences, and so on. Schemesare programmed and stored as named files, which may be downloaded to anynumber of meters. Any particular scheme can be created either by programming allaspects from scratch, or simply by assembling existing elements and modifying them,if necessary.


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Programming Meters

The Master Station facilitates local and remote communication with meters fortransferring schemes and site-specific data such as meter passwords and calibrationsettings. Commands, including maximum demand (MD) resets and clock/calendaradjustments, can also be run. All communication with the meters is limited by theuser’s Master Station security profile and the meter passwords. Fast-programmingand user-defined programming options are provided. Fast programming allows onlydata specified in the Meter List to be transferred, and does not require the operator toknow meter passwords.

Reading Meters

The Master Station communicates with meters to retrieve current and historicalmetered data, interval recording data, and the meter configuration. The same securityaccess provisions as for programming also apply to meter reading. Similarly, the dataread from a meter may be user-defined, or performed as a fast-read, controlled by themeter list. Retrieved meter data is stored on disk, and facilities are provided forviewing it at any time.

Managing a Meter List

It is possible to create a database, referred to as the Meter List, which storesspecific details relating to individual meters and batches of meters. These include therelevant modem number or Paknet address, meter passwords and serial numbers. Aswith other aspects of the Master Station, access to view and/or edit data in the meterlist is controlled by the user’s security profile. Information from the meter list is usedwhen programming and communicating with meters.

In addition to various set requirements, the meter list can store information in tenuser-definable Group Name fields. Search facilities are provided for locating metersin the list by serial number or by any of the group names.

Managing Security

In addition to setting meter passwords, the Master Station provides a flexiblesystem of security access. A system administrator can add and edit users, and definea security profile for each one which allows access only to designated functions ofthe Master Station, and to specific actions connected with the meters. Each user hasa unique login username and password. To ensure confidentiality, all users arerequired to change their passwords from that set by the administrator the first timethey log in, and can change it at any time thereafter.


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1.2 APPLICATION AND FEATURES

The Indigo+ International Master Station is a Windows software package forprogramming Indigo+ meters. The package provides a rapid and convenient means ofexploiting the flexibility of the meters, and their ability to accept new programmingschemes at any time, on or off site. The principal features of the software are:

• Uses standard Microsoft Windows interface.

• Allows any number of meter configurations to be devised and stored for use whenrequired.

• Continually cross-checks entries to prevent invalid programming.

• Requires meter to be present only when directly sending or receiving data.

• Incorporates a high level of security against unauthorised use of the software.

• Has flexible levels of security governing access to program functions and meterdata.

1.3 BASIC OPERATIONS

This section covers the basics of operating the Master Station including starting,setting up and quitting the program.

Starting the Master Station for the First TimeSetting Up UsersStarting the Master Station NormallyChanging your PasswordLogging OutQuitting the Program

Master Station Set-up and Security AccessMaster Station Set-up and Security AccessMaster Station Set-up and Security AccessMaster Station Set-up and Security Access

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2 MASTER STATION SET-UP AND SECURITY ACCESS

2.1 STARTING THE MASTER STATION FOR THE FIRST TIME

When the Master Station is started for the first time, there are no valid users. Togain access to the program for the first time, you must use a default username andobtain a password by contacting Schlumberger Electricity. Telephone numbers fordoing so are displayed on the login screen.

The first thing you should do after obtaining the Registration Password and loggingin is to create at least one user with authority to set up further users. Such a user isreferred to as an administrator.

To start the Master Station for the first time

1. From the Windows Program Manager screen, choose the IIMS Master Stationicon.

After a few seconds, the Login dialogue box appears.

2. In the Username box, type the word ‘backup’, then click on OK. A password isnot needed.


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3. Follow the instructions given in the Registration dialogue box to obtain aregistration password in the form of a 6-digit number.

4. Enter the registration password and click on OK.

The Registration dialogue box then disappears leaving the Master Station as theactive window.

You should now set up at least your own username and password to use whenyou login subsequently. Otherwise, you’ll need to perform the first-timeprocedure again.

2.2 SETTING UP USERS

The only people able to set up users are the person using the first-time loginprocedure (see Starting the Master Station for the First Time), and users who arethen given the authority to do so. These users are referred to as ‘administrators’.Administrators assign usernames and temporary passwords, and control whichaspects of the program each user has access to. When new users login for the firsttime, they are prompted to change the password from the one set by theadministrator.


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Setting up users

1. Select Users from the Setup menu on the Master Station screen.

2. Click on Add.

3. In the Create New User dialogue box, type in a user-name of at least fourcharacters and click on OK.


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4. Enter a temporary password and then press TAB. The password must bebetween 6 and 20 characters in length.

For security, the password is not shown as you type it.

5. Re-enter the password to confirm correct entry.

6. In the two Security boxes (IMS Security Level and Meter Security) select a levelof 1 to 5 and 1 to 4 respectively.

These define the total range of functions that can be made available to the newuser. IMS Profile relates to Master Station functions; Meter Profile relates tometer functions. At each security level except the highest, some functions will beunavailable for selection.

7. Click on the two Profile tabs in turn, and select the functions that the user is tobe allowed to use by checking the relevant boxes.

If you are creating an administrator, you must set a IMS Security Level rating of5, and check the Configure Users box on the IMS Profile tab.

8. Click on OK.

The new user must be made aware of the temporary password. This will be usedonly once, as the user will be required to change it at the first login.


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2.3 STARTING THE MASTER STATION NORMALLY

Before you can log into the Master Station, you must know your username andpassword. If this is the first time you have logged in, your password will be thetemporary one set up by the administrator. In this case, you will be required tochange the password to one known only to you.If you forget your password, you must get an administrator to provide a newtemporary one to allow you to log in.If you have any reason to believe that your password is known to another person,you should immediately set a new one.

To start the Master Station

1. From the Windows Program Manager or Start Menu, choose the Indigo+ IIMSicon.

Master Station Icon

2. In the Login dialogue box, enter your username, then press ENTER or click inthe Password box.

3. Type in your password and click on OK.

4. If this is the first time you have logged in, a dialogue box appears informing youthat your password was set by the administrator and asking you to change it. Inthis case, do the following:

• Click on OK.


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• In the Old box, type in your existing password. Press ENTER or click in the Newbox.

• Type in your new password, which must be between 6 and 20 characters inlength, and can contain any keyboard characters.

The password is case-sensitive, so you must enter it using exactly the combination oflower-case and capital letters that you want to use when you log in.

• Click in the Confirm box, and type an exact copy of your password, then click onOK.

− The screen now shows the Master Station as the active window.

2.4 CHANGING YOUR PASSWORD

Your password should remain known only to you at all times. If you suspect thatanyone else knows your password you should change it immediately. For security,try to ensure your password cannot easily be guessed; avoid family names, telephonenumbers, car registration numbers and so on. It is also best to keep passwordssimple enough to commit to memory. Passwords can be between 6 and 20 characterslong, can contain any keyboard characters and are case-sensitive.

To change your password

1. Select Password from the Setup menu.


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2. Type in your present password and press ENTER.

3. Type in your new password and press ENTER, then re-enter the password forconfirmation.

4. Click on OK.

2.5 LOGGING OUT

Once you have finished working on the program, you should log out. Thisprevents other people gaining access to the system and allows other users to accessthe application.

To log out

1. Select Logout from the File menu

The Login dialogue box will appear on screen. You are now logged out of the system.


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2.6 QUITTING THE PROGRAM

You can quit the program from one of two places:

• from within the program if you’re still working.

• from the Login dialogue box which will be on the screen either because someonehas logged out, or because a time-out has occurred.

To quit the program

1. Do one of the following

• If you’re still working in the program, select Exit from the File menu. There isno need to close or save your current scheme. This is done automatically asyou quit.

• If the Login dialogue box is displayed, click Cancel.

2.7 THE MASTER STATION SCREEN

The Master Station screen has a set of six menu headings and a toolbar along thetop edge. Every function of the program is available by making selections from oneof the six menus. The twelve toolbar buttons provide an easy shortcut to some of themost commonly used functions.

At the bottom of the screen is the status bar. This area serves two purposes; it showswho is logged on as the current user, and it can provide a brief description of eachmenu option and toolbar button.

When a scheme is loaded, the main part of the screen normally contains a detailedbreak-down of that scheme. The entire scheme setup can be viewed by using thescroll-bars at the side of the screen.


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Menus

As with most Windows applications, the functions of the Master Station arearranged in logical groups within the menus. If you are familiar with Windows, someof the menu headings will be familiar to you. Briefly, however, they contain thefollowing types of function:

Menu Name Functions

File File handling functions such as opening, closing and savingschemes, plus logging out and closing the application.

Edit Editing and copying schemes.

View Viewing schemes, meter and interval data, comms history andcalibration logs.

Meter Comms Programming, reading, calibrating, and commissioning meters.Setup Changing meter data, changing passwords, editing, deleting and

adding users, and changing display fonts.

Help Accessing the help system and information on the MasterStation


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Status Bar

Whilst performing most operations, the left-hand side of the Status Bar displays themessage ‘For Help, press F1’. Pressing F1 brings up this help system.To get quick help messages concerning the functions of menu options and toolbar buttons,click and hold on any menu option or button. A brief description of the function willappear in the status bar. If you want to select a function, simply release the mouse button.If not, move the cursor off the menu option or button and then release the mouse button.

The right-hand side of the status bar shows who is logged on as the current user.

2.8 CHANGING THE FONT

The scheme description is shown on the screen in a default font. This font is alsoused when printing scheme information.

To change the screen and printer font

1. Click on the font button on the toolbar, or select Font from the Setup menu.

The font button

This brings up a standard Windows font dialogue box.

2. Select the font, colour, style type and size you wish to use. An example of theselected font will be shown in the Sample box.

3. Click on OK.


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2.9 USING THE PROGRAM

Generally speaking, there is no set order in which Master Station tasks need tobe performed. The program is designed to allow the individual functions of creatingand maintaining schemes, programming and reading meters, etc., to be used as andwhen required by people with different responsibilities and levels of security.This section of the help system is arranged under headings which reflect the majorfunctions within the program.

To Refer to

Find out about schemes About Schemes

Create a new scheme About Schemes and Starting a NewScheme

Load an existing scheme to edit Loading a Scheme to Edit

Change elements within a scheme Loading Existing Elements into aScheme

Select, modify and save scheme elements Selecting, Defining and Saving SchemeElements

Set Master Station options Setting Options

Read and program meters Communication with Local Meters andCommunication with Remote Meters

Store and retrieve meter information Maintaining the Meter List

SchemesSchemesSchemesSchemes

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3 SCHEMES

3.1 ABOUT SCHEMES

This section gives a brief overview of schemes, and provides references to thesections that describe specific scheme-related functions in detail.

What schemes do

A scheme is a set of programmed parameters which define the major part of ameter’s configuration, including the basic measurement type, rate-switching patterns,display sequences, and so on. Each scheme is created and stored on the computer asseparate named file, and can be downloaded to any number of meters to provide thegeneric configuration.

Some site-specific parameters such, as meter passwords, are defined separatelywithin the Master Station, and downloaded with the scheme to complete the meterconfiguration.

What they consist of

Each scheme is made up from eleven separately-programmed and storedelements. Each element defines one aspect of the meter configuration such the tariffrate switching pattern, billing dates, communications parameters, etc. Any number ofelements of each type can be created and stored as named files, and these elementscan then be used in any combination to construct schemes.

How to create a new scheme

There are two ways to create a new scheme:

• start from the Master Station default scheme, and add or define all elements.

• copy an existing scheme, and change or edit elements only as necessary.


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Which method is the most convenient depends on how similar the required scheme isto any existing one.

In practice, there is not much difference in the two methods, apart from the startingpoint. The main steps involved are:

Creating a completely new scheme

1. Start and name a new scheme. This opens the Default Scheme, consisting of alldefault elements.

2. Change default elements for existing programmed ones, or modify and re-namedefault elements.

3. Save the scheme.


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Creating a new scheme from an existing one

1. Open an existing scheme, and then save it under a new name.

2. Change and/or modify the elements that make up the scheme. If you don’t wantmodified elements to affect other schemes that use them, you can save themunder new names (i.e. create new elements).

3. Save the scheme.

How to edit an existing scheme

Editing an existing scheme is exactly the same as creating a new scheme from anexisting one, except that you do not re-name it.

1. Open the required scheme.

2. Change and/or modify the elements that make up the scheme. If you don’t wantmodified elements to affect other schemes that use them, you can save themunder new names (i.e. create new elements).

3. Save the scheme.

When a scheme or an individual scheme element is created or edited, the initialcreation date, revision date and revision number are stored with it for the sake ofidentification. These are displayed in the relevant dialogue box whenever a schemeor element is opened. For example:


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3.2 VIEWING AND PRINTING SCHEME DETAILS

While you are working on a scheme, the main part of the Master Station screengives a full text description of the constituent elements. You can use the scroll bar atthe left of the screen to view any part of it.The scheme details start with an overview, which lists the named elements includedin the scheme. The remainder shows details of each element. Each section identifiesthe element’s name, version, and last revision date, and gives all current settings andselections.

If you double click on any part of the scheme details, the Edit Scheme dialogue boxwill be opened, with the corresponding element tab selected ready for makingchanges.The File menu has Print Preview and Print options, which allow you to view thescheme details in page format, and to print any or all pages.


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3.3 CREATING AND EDITING SCHEMES

This section deals with all aspects of creating and editing schemes includingstarting a new scheme, loading existing schemes, and creation and editing of schemeelements.

Starting a New Scheme

Loading an Existing Scheme

Selecting and Defining Scheme Elements

Loading Existing Elements into a Scheme

Defining Tariffs

Defining Day Patterns

Configuring Maximum Demand Registers

Setting Season Dates

Setting Exclusion Dates

Defining Latent Tariffs

Configuring Billing Periods

Configuring Display Sequences

Configuring Menu Sequences

Changing Clock Settings

Setting Communications Parameters

Setting Metering Options

Configuring Output Relay Functions

Defining Auxiliary Input Registers


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3.4 STARTING A NEW SCHEME

When you start a completely new scheme, it will initially contain all defaultelements, which can be modified and saved under new names, or replaced withexisting elements.

To start a new scheme

1. Click on the New Scheme button or select New Scheme from the File menu.

New Scheme button

2. Enter a name of up to eight alphanumeric characters for the scheme and clickOK.

If a duplicate name exists, you will be prompted to confirm the overwrite.

NOTE: Schemes are automatically stored with the filename extension .scx in the

directory specified through Options in the Setup menu.

The Scheme Overview tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box will now bedisplayed.

3. Enter a description for the scheme, if required (up to 20 characters long).

4. Select the relevant Measurement Type for the new scheme.


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5. Click the Settings button. In the Meter Measurement Type Form that appears,make the appropriate selections for the meter and (where relevant) theassociated transformer.

Only those settings that are relevant to the selected measurement type will beaccessible.

6. Do one of the following to complete the scheme definition:

Change the default elements for existing defined ones, refer to Loading ExistingElements into a Scheme.

To edit the scheme by re-defining the existing elements, refer to Selecting,Defining and Saving Scheme Elements.


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3.5 LOADING A SCHEME TO EDIT

Use this procedure to load a meter scheme from disk, either for the purpose ofchanging the existing scheme, or for using it as the basis for a new one.

To Load a Scheme

1. Select the Open File button or the Open option from the File menu.

By default, the File Open dialogue box lists schemes currently in the directorydefined through Options in the Setup menu.

2. If the scheme you want is located in a different directory, change to the relevantdisk/directory.

3. Select the required scheme from the File Name list.

The Master Station screen will now show a detailed break down of the scheme.

4. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, or double click anywhere on the scheme details.

This brings up the Edit Scheme dialogue box, which has one tab for each of theeleven elements that make up a scheme. Using this dialogue box you can: createa new scheme by saving under a different name; replace elements withalternative ones; or re-define the existing elements of the scheme.

5. If you want to create a new scheme based on the current one, do the following tosave a copy of the scheme under a new name:

Select the Scheme Overview tab.

Click on Save As.

In the dialogue box displayed, enter a new scheme name and click on OK.

In the scheme overview tab, enter a description for the scheme, if required (up to20 characters long).

If necessary, select a different Measurement Type for the scheme.

Click on OK.

The current scheme will now be the new one, which can be edited safely. Theoriginal scheme will remain unaltered under the old name.


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6. To edit the current scheme by changing elements for alternative ones, refer toLoading Existing Elements into a Scheme.

7. To edit the current scheme by re-defining the existing elements, refer toSelecting, Defining and Saving Scheme Elements.

3.6 SELECTING AND DEFINING SAVING SCHEME ELEMENTS

Defining any of the elements that make up a scheme is actually a process of selectingand editing an existing one, and then saving it either under its original name or under a newname. Even if no elements of the same type have yet been defined, the Master Stationincludes default elements as the basis for all future ones.

When you save an element after making changes, you are given the option of also savingthe current scheme. If you do, the scheme is saved with the changed element. If not, justthe changed element is saved. Therefore, although you must have a scheme loaded inorder to define or modify elements, it is not necessary to change the scheme; if you wish,you can simply define and store elements for future use.

If you want to change an element currently used in schemes, you simply select it, edit it asrequired and re-save it. All schemes incorporating the element will be affected.If you want to create a completely new element, you can select either an existing one orthe default, save it with a new name, and edit it as required. The new element willimmediately be available for use in any number of schemes.

NOTE: It is not generally advisable to change the default scheme elements, as these provide a

common starting point for all new ones. If you need several similar elements, is better to

create new ones from the default, and then change and save these under new names to

create the others.

The general procedure for defining and saving any scheme element is as follows:

To select a scheme element for definition

1. Create a new scheme or open an existing scheme.

2. Select Scheme From the Edit menu, or double-click anywhere within the schemedetails display.

This brings up the Edit Scheme dialogue box.

3. In the Edit Scheme dialogue box, click on the tab for the element you wish to select.

4. In the Name box, select the element that you wish to edit or use as the basis for anew one.


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To define the scheme element

1. Refer to the appropriate section of Help for specific information on completingthe requirements for each type of scheme element.

Defining TariffsLatent TariffsBilling PeriodsDisplay SequencesMenu SequenceClock SettingsAuxiliary Input RegistersOutput Relay FunctionsMeteringCommunications

To save a modified or new scheme element

1. After making all required changes to the element, do one of the following:

• To create a new element, click on Save As, acknowledge the message that’sshown, then enter a new name in the dialogue box, and click on OK.

• To change the current element, click on OK or select a different element tab inthe Edit Scheme dialogue box.

One of theses dialogue boxes will be displayed, depending on whether you’reworking on the default element or a different one:

2. Do one of the following:

• Choose Yes to save the element (this does not, on its own, change the scheme).

• Choose No to abandon changes.

• Choose Cancel to return to the element tab to make further changes.

• If you choose Yes, a similar dialogue is displayed asking if you want to savethe scheme.


• Choose Yes to save the scheme with the changed element.

• Choose No to leave the scheme unchanged.

• Choose Cancel to return to the Edit Scheme dialogue box to make further changes.


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3.7 LOADING EXISTING ELEMENTS INTO A SCHEME

Once individual scheme elements have been defined and stored, it is possible tocreate a scheme merely by loading the required combination of elements into anewly-started scheme or into a copy of an existing one.

To create or edit a scheme using pre-defined elements

1. Create a new scheme or open an existing scheme.

2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, or double-click anywhere within the schemedetails display.

This brings up the Edit Scheme dialogue box.

3. Select the Scheme Overview tab.

This has a separate selection box for each of the 11 scheme elements. For example:

Each box provides a drop-down list of all available existing elements of therelated type.

4. Choose the required elements from the select boxes. ( e.g. Metering Component)

If necessary, you can edit each element as required.

5. Select the appropriate Measurement Type for the scheme.

6. If you are setting one or both Latent Tariffs, choose the required tariffs, enablethem by checking the Enable On box, and enter the changeover date(s).

7. When finished, click OK to save the scheme.

Tariffs ApplicationsTariffs ApplicationsTariffs ApplicationsTariffs Applications

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4 TARIFFS APPLICATIONS

4.1 DEFINING TARIFFS

Tariffs are the most complicated element of meter schemes. However, theindividual operations required to define them are relatively simple provided you havea general understanding of the way they relate to one an other.

Overview of Tariffs

Indigo+ meters can store up to 16 tariff switching sequences, referred to as ‘DayPatterns’ and designated A to P. Each day pattern defines the order and timing oftariff rate changes over a 24-hour period. For each day pattern, you can define twoindependent rate-switching sequences and assign to them up to four parameters. Forexample, you could use one sequence to switch rates for import kWh and kVAh, andthe other for export kWh and kVAh.Any period of one year can be defined as having up to 12 seasons, and each seasoncan use any one of the available day patterns on any day of the week. The meterautomatically changes to new seasons and, therefore, to new tariff sequences on thedefined dates. Meters can be programmed in advance for new tariffs not yet in effect.

Setting up a tariff involves the following steps:

• Defining up to 16 day patterns, each consisting of switching times andcorresponding tariff rates.

For each day pattern, setting the operating times of up to four tariff indication relays,and configuring up to four maximum demand registers.

Defining up to 12 seasons and choosing the required day pattern for each day of theweek in each one.

Setting up exclusion dates for days with special day patterns.

Beginning Tariff Setup

Whether you’re defining a new tariff or modifying an existing one, you must firstselect a tariff to work on. Refer to Selecting, Defining and Saving Scheme Elements,and then see the sections on Defining Day Patterns, Setting Season Information andSetting Exclusion Dates. After defining all aspects of the tariff, refer again toSelecting, Defining and Saving Scheme Elements for information on saving.


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4.2 DEFINING DAY PATTERNS

The Master Station provides two different ways of defining day patterns; eitherby clicking or dragging on a graphical grid or bar, or by entering values in tables. Onopening the dialogue box, the graphical method is selected by default.In addition to the rate-switching events, for each Day Pattern, you can also define theactivation times of up to four tariff indication relays, and the function and period ofup to four maximum demand registers.

To define a day pattern

1. In the Edit Scheme dialogue box, click the Tariff tab.

2. Choose the Day Patterns button.

This brings up the dialogue box containing graphical displays for defining therate switching, output relay operation, and demand register information usinggraphical displays.


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3. If you wish to set values by using tables instead of graphics, select Table in thetop-right corner of the dialogue box.

4. In both cases, the current day pattern is shown in the top left-hand corner of thedialogue box. If this is not already Day Pattern A, select it by clicking thePrevious button one or more times. An Assign Sequences button will nowappear, allowing the switching sequences to be assigned to the required meteredunits.


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5. To define which metered units are rate-switched, do the following:

Click the Assign Sequences button.

In the box that appears, assign the required units from those listed to sequence 1or 2 by selecting the appropriate radio buttons.

You can make a maximum of four assignments to the two sequences. Forexample, you could assign any two units to each sequence, or three units tosequence 1 and one unit to sequence 2.

Click the Assign button to complete the assignment.

The selected units for the two sequences will now be shown below the graphicalsequences or sequence table. For example:

These assignments will apply to all day patterns.

6. Select which day pattern (A to P) you wish to define by using the Previous andNext buttons.

Day Patterns do not have to be defined in any set order, nor do they have tofollow on alphabetically. For example, it is possible to have Day Patterns A to Edefined, leaving F and G blank and then a further set of patterns from H to M.

7. To set rate switching events graphically, do the following:

Position the cursor anywhere on the Sequence 1 or Sequence 2 grid. A time andrate will be displayed under the cursor.

Move the cursor until it shows the required time and the rate you want to switchto, and click. The graph will indicate the rate switch.

Repeat this for up to ten rate switching events on each graph.


4–5

8. To set rate switching events using the tables, do the following:

Position the cursor in the first Seq 1 or Seq 2 Time field and enter the time of thefirst rate switch. Times should be entered in HH:MM format with half-hourboundaries.Press RETURN, and then enter the rate that you want to switch to.Press RETURN, and then repeat the previous two steps for all required rateswitches.

9. Set up the tariff indication relays and demand registers, if required, and theneither click Previous or Next to edit another day pattern, or Done to return to theEdit Scheme dialogue box.


4–6

4.3 SETTING TARIFF INDICATION RELAYS

Indigo+ meters may be configured with up to four output relays. Through theOutput tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box, any or all of the relays can be assignedto the function of tariff indication. By co-ordinating the relay activation with rateswitching times, it is possible to signal to external equipment when the meter isoperating at particular rates.

Each tariff indication relay can be programmed to a resolution of 30 minutes for upto five separate ‘on’ periods associated with each day pattern. Programming isnormally carried out as part of defining day patterns, and the facilities for doing soare located in the same dialogue box.

To set tariff indication relay switching

1. Select the appropriate scheme.

2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu and click the Tariff tab.

3. Click on the Edit Day Patterns button.

4. Select the relevant day pattern (A to P) using the Previous and Next buttons. Thecurrent day pattern is shown in the top left-hand corner of the dialogue box.

You can now configure the relays graphically or using a table.

5. To set relay activation times graphically, do the following:

• Select Graph in the top-right corner of the dialogue box.

• Position the cursor anywhere on the required relay bar (Relay 1 - 4). A timewill be displayed under the cursor.

• Move the cursor until the first-required relay On time is shown, then click andhold the mouse button.

• Drag the cursor to the required Off time and release the mouse button. Theselected On period will appear highlighted (green). To de-select an area,simply repeat the process on a highlighted area.

• Repeat the previous steps for up to five separate periods for each relay.


4–7

6. To set relay activation times using the tables, do the following:

• Select Table in the top-right corner of the dialogue box.

• Click in the first On field for any relay and enter the required On time. Timesshould be entered in HH:MM format with hour or half-hour boundaries.

• Press RETURN, and then enter the associated Off time.

• Press RETURN, and then repeat the previous two steps for all required On/Offperiods.

7. Set up the rate switching times and demand registers, if required, and then eitherclick Previous or Next to edit another day pattern, or Done to return to the EditScheme dialogue box.

4.4 CONFIGURING MAXIMUM DEMAND REGISTERS

The meters contain four maximum demand (MD) registers. Each register can beconfigured to monitor demand either continuously or for prescribed periods, and tostore units of import or export kWh, kVA or kVAr.

The registers record the maximum demand monitored in any one integration period(30 minutes) within the programmed monitoring times, together with the date andtime of the maximum demand. The registers are reset to zero at the end of eachbilling period, or when a maximum demand reset is performed.

Up to five separate monitoring periods over 24 hours can be prescribed for each MDregister. Alternatively, they can be set for continuous monitoring. Registerconfiguration is normally done as part of defining day patterns, and the facilities fordoing so are located in the same dialogue box.

To configure demand registers


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu and click the Tariff tab.

3. Click on the Edit Day Patterns button.


4–8

4. Select the relevant day pattern (A to P) using the Previous and Next buttons. Thecurrent day pattern is shown in the top left-hand corner of the dialogue box.

• You can now configure the registers graphically or using a table.

5. To configure the registers graphically, do the following:

• Select Graph in the top-right corner of the dialogue box.

• For each demand register, select the units of measurement in the boxprovided.

• If you want a demand register period to be continuous, check the Continuouscheckbox at the right-hand end of the relevant register field. If not:

• Position the cursor anywhere on the required demand register display. A timewill be displayed under the cursor.

• Click and hold the mouse button at the required start point of a demandmonitoring period, drag to the required stop point, and release the mousebutton.

The selection will appear highlighted (green). To de-select an area, simply repeatthe process on a highlighted area.

• Repeat the previous steps for up to five separate periods for each register.

6. To configure the registers using tables, do the following:

• Select Table in the top-right corner of the dialogue box.

• For each demand register, select the units of measurement in the boxprovided.


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• Click in the first On field for any register and enter the required (monitoring)On time. Times should be entered in HH:MM format with hour or half-hourboundaries.

• Press RETURN, and then enter the associated Off time.

• Press RETURN, and then repeat the previous steps for all required On/Offperiods.

7. Set up the rate switching times and tariff indication relays, if required, and theneither click Previous or Next to edit another day pattern, or Done to return to theEdit Scheme dialogue box.

4.5 SETTING SEASON INFORMATION

Up to 12 seasons can be defined within a one-year period, and each season canuse any of the available day patterns for each day of the week. The start of a seasonis defined by a day/month date only, and all seasons are assumed to be within oneyear.

The meter will use the current season definitions continuously unless one or bothlatent tariffs have been programmed. In that case, the meter will switch to theseasons defined in the latent tariff on the designated start date.

To set season information


• Any currently-defined seasons will appear in the Seasons box.

2. To define new seasons:

• Click in the first empty Description field, enter a name for the season, thenpress TAB.

• Enter a start date for the season in DD/MM form, then press Tab. It isimportant to make sure that the seasons run in chronological order.

• Select the day pattern you want to apply for each day of the week (shown atthe top of the column) by typing the appropriate letter (A-P). The availableday patterns are listed in the Day Patterns box.


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3. To edit existing seasons:

• Click in the relevant field, and either select the part of the entry you want tochange, or use DELETE/BACKSPACE to delete it.

• Type the new entry.

4. Repeat the relevant steps above to define all required seasons.


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4.6 SETTING EXCLUSION DATES

Exclusion dates provide a means of overriding the normal seasonal tariff pattern,by applying a different tariff rate switching sequence on selected days. Up to 40different exclusion dates can be defined.

Any of the defined day patterns can be applied to any exclusion date. You could, forexample, have a pattern specifically reserved for a particular public holiday, orsimply apply one of the patterns already in use for another part of the year.

Note: For exclusion periods of more than one or two days, it is better to use the season

structure to define a specific pattern sequence.

To set exclusion dates


2. Choose the Exclusion Dates button.

This brings up the Exclusion Dates dialogue box.

3. Click on the first available Date box, and enter the required exclusion date inDD/MM format, then press TAB.

4. Enter the Day Pattern letter you wish to assign to the exclusion date.

5. Repeat the previous two steps for additional exclusion dates as required.

6. Click OK to return to the Edit Scheme dialogue box.


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4.7 LATENT TARIFFS

The meters can be programmed to have up to two latent tariffs. These are standardtariffs that are loaded onto the meter and remain dormant until a specified date, when theybecome the active tariff scheme, thus replacing day patterns, seasons, and exclusion dates.Any defined and stored tariff may be used as a latent tariff in any scheme.The Latent Tariff 1 and Latent Tariff 2 tabs in the Edit Scheme dialogue box provide aconvenient means of viewing and editing the latent tariffs.

To set the latent tariffs


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu and click the Scheme Overview tab.

3. In the Latent Tariff 1 box, select the tariff you wish to assign as the first latent tariff.

4. Check the corresponding Enable On box and enter the date on which you wishthe tariff to become active in DD/MM/YY format.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the second latent tariff if required.

Viewing and editing latent tariffs

1. Select Latent Tariff 1 or Latent Tariff 2 tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box todisplay the tariff.


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2. If necessary, make any required changes exactly as described under Defining Tariffs.

Note that there are no differences at all between defining/editing a tariff through the

Tariff and Latent Tariff tabs. The Latent Tariff tabs simply provide quick means of

access to the tariffs.

4.8 BILLING PERIODS

The program allows for up to 24 billing period dates and associated times to bedefined. At the defined time on each billing date, all current register contents arerecorded and will be maintained for reading at a later time.

If the meter is powered down when the boundary into a billing period end is crossed,the billing function will occur at the next power-up, and the billing period time willbe recorded as the time of power-up. If the meter is powered down through severalbilling period dates, only one will be recorded at power up.

The meter will automatically store 16 sets of billing period data. On each billing dateafter the first 16, the oldest set of data is erased. If the meter is not read before this,billing information will be lost.

You can enter billing dates manually, specifying any day, month, year and time.Alternatively, you can automatically enter billing dates for the current year. If youenter manual dates, end-of-month billing should be specified to occur on the first dayof the following month, as this avoids the problems associated with leap-yearcalendars. All dates should be entered in the format DD/MM/YY.


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A meter will follow all specified billing dates through to the last one. It will thencontinuously re-use the most recent year’s billing dates until reprogrammed with newones. For example, if you set billing periods in, say, June 1998 for the current yearand following year, the meter will use those for the remainder of 1998 and then thosefor 1999. In the year 2000 onwards, it would continuously re-use the 1999 dates untilprovided with new ones. In the Master Station, the dates that will be re-used aremarked with an asterisk.

Year entries below 90 are taken to be in the next century. For example, 01/01/10would be interpreted as 1st January 2010.

To define billing period dates


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Billing tab in the EditScheme dialogue box.

3. If you want to create a new billing element, click on Save As, and enter a newname in the dialogue box provided.

4. If you require end-of-billing periods to occur monthly, click on the Set Monthlybutton.

Any dates currently set will be over-written automatically. 12 billing period dateswill be set on the first of each month, beginning with January of the current year.The default billing time is midnight (00:00 not 24:00).

5. To set or change billing dates/times manually, click in the relevant boxes andenter or edit the dates/times as required. The dates should be in chronologicalorder.

6. Click on OK or select another tab to save the billing periods.

Sequences Clock SettingsSequences Clock SettingsSequences Clock SettingsSequences Clock Settings

5–1

5 SEQUENCES CLOCK SETTINGS

5.1 DISPLAY SEQUENCES

The meter’s LCD can display information in response to operation of theDISPLAY push button. What information is displayed and in what order is definedwithin the Display Sequences tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box.

Each display sequence definition contains two separate sequences. One sequence isreferred to as ‘Normal’; the other as ‘Engineering’. The normal sequence is availableat any time to the user, while the engineering one is available only when securityclearance is given.

The range of information available for inclusion in the display sequences includes:current and historical register contents; time, date, and season information; andvarious database and engineering information such as number of resets, re-programs,and so on.

The display functions available in any particular scheme depend on the meterMeasurement Type selected in the Scheme Overview tab of the Edit Scheme dialoguebox.

To define display control parameters


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Display Sequence tabin the Edit Scheme dialogue box.


5–2

3. If you want to create a new display sequence element, click on Save As, andenter a new name in the dialogue box provided.

4. In the Phase Representation box, select ABC, RYB, or RST.

This defines the character used to indicate each phase when the meter display isindicating phase losses.

5. In the Cycle Type box, select Manual or Automatic.

This selection defines how the display sequences are operated by the meter’sDISPLAY button. If you select Manual, the display changes to the next item inthe sequence each time the DISPLAY button is pressed. The display will revert tothe default 60 seconds after the last button operation.

If you select Automatic, a single press of the DISPLAY button causes the displayto step automatically through all items in the defined sequence. Each item isshown for the time set in the Auto Cycling Pause box. The display reverts to thedefault at the end of the sequence.

If you select Continuous, the display will step continuously through all items inthe defined sequence without any user action.

6. If the Cycle Type is automatic or continuous, set a time value in the Auto-CyclingPause box, of between five and thirty seconds.

This defines how long each item in an auto-cycled sequence is displayed for.


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7. Set the Engineering Time-Out between one and thirty minutes.

This controls how long the meter can be left before automatically changing fromthe engineering display sequence to normal.

8. If you want the user to have access to one or more sets of stored historical data,set the required number of sets in the Display Current to Historical Set box.

The default is 0, which allows the user to see only current data. When a numberother than 0 is set here, repeated presses of the DISPLAY button will step firstthrough the current data registers, and then through each of the specifiednumber of historical sets in turn.

To Define a Sequence

The following procedure is used twice; once to define the normal sequence, andthen again to define the engineering sequence.

1. In the Display Order box, click the Normal tab.

2. If you wish to create a sequence from scratch, and there are unwanted entries inthe Display Order box, click the Clear button to remove them.

Items available to include in the display sequence are shown in the DisplayOptions box. Note there are two tabs, one showing metering items, the othersupplementary items. You can use items from each list in any order. The optionsavailable depend on the selection in the Measurement Type box in the SchemeOverview tab.

3. To add an item to the end of the display sequence, select the required item in theDisplay Options box and choose Append.

4. To insert an item at any point in the display sequence:

• Select the required item in the Display Options box.• In the Display Order box, select the item before which you want to insert the

new one.• Choose Insert.

5. Continue to append and insert items until the sequence is as required. Asequence may contain up to 99 items If you wish to remove an entry, select theentry in the Display Order box and click Delete.

6. Select Engineering in the Display Order box and repeat the above procedure todefine the engineering sequence.

7. Click OK or select a different tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box to save thesequence.


5–4

5.2 MENU SEQUENCE

Indigo+ meters allow for the display of information and the selection of actionsfrom a series of menus. The menu sequence is activated by pressing and holding thetop (DISPLAY) button for a defined time. The same button can then be used to stepthrough the menu options in turn. Pressing the bottom button initiates whateveraction is appropriate to the menu option displayed at the time.

The menu sequence function of the Master Station defines the menu items availableon the meter, and the order in which they appear when operating the DISPLAYbutton.

To define a menu sequence


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Menu Sequence tab inthe Edit Scheme dialogue box.

3. If you want to create a new menu sequence element, click on Save As, and entera new name in the dialogue box provided.


5–5

4. In the Menu Invocation Delay box, do one of the following:

• Select Off to disable the meter menu displays.

• Select a value between 2 and 10 seconds to define how long the DISPLAYbutton must be pressed before the menu sequence is invoked.

5. If you wish to create a sequence from scratch, and there are unwanted entries inthe Menu Sequence box, click the Clear button to remove them.

Items available for inclusion in the menu sequence are shown in the Functionsbox.

6. To add an item to the end of the display sequence, select the entry in theFunctions box and click Append.

7. To insert an item in the display sequence:

• Select the required item in the Functions box.

• In the Menu Sequence box, select the item before which you want to insert thenew one.

• Choose Insert.

8. Continue to append or insert items until the sequence is as required. A sequencemay contain up to 23 items. If you wish to remove an entry, select the entry inthe Menu Sequence box and click Delete.

9. Click OK or select a different tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box to save thesequence.


5–6

5.3 CLOCK SETTINGS

The internal clock of a meter can be synchronised either to the meter’s ownquartz crystal, or to the mains line frequency. The choice is largely a matter ofpreference, but the crystal is more accurate over shorter periods. Synchronising theclock to the mains line frequency will prove more accurate in the longer term. Ifmains power is interrupted, the meter will continue to maintain timing from itsinternal clock, and then return to the selected clock source on power-up.

The meter can record the start and finish dates of Daylight Saving Time (DST), andwill adjust the internal clocks accordingly. The dates and times of adjustment, andthe amount by which the clock is put forward or back are all programmable. TheMaster Station will accept five pairs of adjustments for five consecutive years. DSTadjustments will still be made even if the meter is not powered up.

To define clock parameters


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Clock tab in the EditScheme dialogue box.

3. If you want to create a new clock element, click on Save As, and enter a newname in the dialogue box provided.

4. Under Clock Source, select Line Synchronised or Crystal Synchronised.


5–7

5. Under Daylight Saving, select Disabled, European Algorithm, or Custom.

6. If you have selected Custom, use the five sets of fields under CustomisedDaylight Saving to specify the dates and times of DST adjustments, and by howmany hours the clock is put forward or back.

• Click in the left-hand DD/MM/YY box, and enter the start date of daylight-saving.

• Press TAB to move the cursor to the HH box and enter the hour (in 24-hourformat) at which the adjustment is to be applied.

• Press TAB, and then enter the number of hours (1 or 2) for the clock to beadvanced.

• Use TAB to move to each of the right-hand fields, and enter the date, time andnumber of hours by which the clock is put back for the end of daylight saving.

• Repeat the above procedure, if required, for the following four years.

NOTE: A DST adjustment cannot cross over a day boundary. Therefore, if you want

to put the clock forward by 2 hours, for example, the latest time you can set

is 22:00.

7. Click OK or select a different tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box to save theclock parameters.

Communication and Input/Ouput FunctionsCommunication and Input/Ouput FunctionsCommunication and Input/Ouput FunctionsCommunication and Input/Ouput Functions

6–1

6 COMMUNICATION AND INPUT/OUPUT FUNCTIONS

6.1 COMMUNICATIONS

Indigo+ meters may be configured to allow remote reading and programming viamodem or Paknet. The Master Station sets user-definable modem and Paknetparameters such as baud rate and initialisation strings.

The meter can also be programmed to initiate communications if certain eventsoccur. A separate telephone number can be specified for each event.

To set communications parameters


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Communications tab inthe Edit Scheme dialogue box.


6–2

3. If you want to create a new Communications element, click on Save As, andenter a new name in the dialogue box provided.

4. Refer to the table below and under Modem Initialisation enter up to six modemor Paknet initialisation strings (as appropriate) and the acknowledge string.

These strings should conform to the modem’s specification. If necessary, controlcharacters can be entered by typing ^ followed by the required character. Anyspaces in the command string will be interpreted as a delay of one second whenrunning the command.

5. In the Dial Out section, do the following:

• If communicating via modem, enter the required Hang-Up string (see tablebelow).

• If you want the meter to initiate communications in the event of:

Push button operationPhase lossDemand alarmBattery alarmDefault alarm

enter the relevant telephone numbers ATDT XXXXXXX in the correspondingboxes.

• If the meter is programmed to dial out, it waits for a specified response stringto indicate that connection has been established. Enter the required responsestring in the Response box.

Modem Paknet

INIT 1 ATE0V1 set 0:0, 1:0INIT 2 ATM1L3 set 2:0, 3:32INIT 3 ATX4Q0 set 4:1, 5:0INIT 4 ATS0=1 set 6:5, 12:0INIT 5 set 13:0INIT 6 set 11:12ACK OK %Hang Up +++ ATH Not UsedResponse CONNECT COMTime-Out 45 45


6–3

6. Click the Advanced Setting button, and use the information below to make theappropriate communications selections.

Element Function

Modem Power Control Switches the modems in the meters on or off, or setsthem to perform a daily reset.

Restrict Optical Comms Communication between the optical probe and theto 4800 Baud meter initiate at 300 baud and then normally

increase to 9600 baud. Some optical probes do notoperate well at this speed. This selection limits thespeed to 4800 baud to accommodate these probes.

Response Time Out Limits the time that the meter will wait for theResponse string (see above). If it is not receivedwithin the specified Time-out period, the meter willcease the communication attempt.

Delay on Response Sets a delay between receipt by the meter of theResponse string and the start of data transfer. This isnecessary with some modems to prevent data loss atthe start of the transfer.

Hang-up Pause Sets a delay between hang-up after a communicationattempt and the start of the following attempt. Thisis necessary with some telephone systems in orderto acquire a dial tone.

Connection Mode Selects modem or paknet communication.

Baud Rate Sets the baud rate for modem or paknetcommunication.


6–4

6.2 METERING

Within the Metering tab, basic metering parameters such as display resolution,interval recording quantities, and VT/CT ratios can be set.

To define any of the Metering settings


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Metering tab in the EditScheme dialogue box.

3. If you want to create a new Metering element, click on Save As, and enter a newname in the dialogue box provided.

4. Make the relevant changes as described below.


6–5

To change Interval Recording settings

1. Under Interval Settings, set the required Integration Period Duration.

2. Click the Channels button.

There are six memory options for Indigo+ meters which provide differentamounts of storage for interval data. The number of days that can be stored witheach option depends on the integration period duration and the number ofchannels (registers) selected for storage. Choosing a shorter integration periodor more channels reduces the number of days that can be stored.

3. Select the registers you wish to include in the interval data.

The figures under Days Archived show the number of days interval data can bestored for the current combination of integration period and selected channels.

4. Click OK.


6–6

To change VT/CT settings

1. Clear the Disable CT/VT Ratio Modification.

If this box is checked, CT/VT settings are not included when a meter isprogrammed with the scheme; the existing settings in the meter are leftunchanged. Consequently, changing the settings here has no meaning if the boxis checked, and is not allowed.

2. Choose the required primary VT and/or CT settings.

The secondary settings cannot be changed on the Metering tab. The CT and VTSecondary boxes are there for information only, and the Change button servesonly to provide a message to the effect that secondary settings must be madethrough the Scheme Overview tab.

3. If you want to change secondary settings, select the Scheme Overview tab anduse the Settings button under Metering Definition.

Miscellaneous Functions

The functions of the remaining elements on the Metering tab are given below.Use this information to make appropriate selections.

Element Function

Phases Connected If only one or two phases are connected to a three-phasemeter, the meter will normally give phase-out error warnings.To prevent this, check just the boxes for the phases actuallyconnected.

kVa Quadrants Selects the quadrants to be registered.

PF Calculation Selects the quadrants where power factor is calculated. Thiscan be set-up for Import only , or Import and Exportcombined.

Normal and Select the display resolution for the normal and engineeringEngineering Display displays.

RED Direction Selects import or export to be regarded as reverse energy,or disables reverse energy detection.

Rising Demand Alarm Selects the Maximum Demand register to be monitored forthe purpose of the rising demand alarm.


6–7

Rising Demand Alarm Sets the number of units required in the rising demandLimit alarm register to activate the demand alarm. The range of

values for this field is shown below the entry box and isdependant on the VT/CT ratio settings.

MD Lockout Duration Sets the minimum time that must elapse after performing amanual MD reset on the meter before another reset will beallowed.

6.3 OUTPUT RELAY FUNCTIONS

Indigo+ meters may be configured with up to four programmable output relays.The relays can be assigned as tariff/change of tariff indicators, demand alarms orintegration period boundary indicators, or set to produce pulsed outputsproportional to metered energy.For any output relay that is assigned as a pulse output, you can define the amount ofmetered energy required to produce one pulse. For CT or VT/CT meters, thiscorresponds to metered energy at either the primary or secondary of the metertransformer.

To define an output relay setting


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Output tab in the EditScheme dialogue box.


6–8

3. If you want to create a new Output element, click on Save As, and enter a newname in the dialogue box provided.

Separate boxes are provided for defining relays 1 - 4.

4. In the Function select box for any relay, choose the required relay function.

NOTE: The functions available depend on the meter Measurement Type selected in the

Scheme Overview tab. Consequently, changing the measurement settings can

render existing Output relay settings invalid. If this is the case, you will be

prompted before the setting can be saved.

5. If you have selected a pulse function, choose either the Primary Pulse Weightingor Secondary Pulse Weighting button and enter the required value; the othervalue will be adjusted automatically.

The relationship between the primary and secondary weighting values for CTand VT/CT meters is as follows:

Primary value = Secondary value x CT ratio x VT ratio

For example if the CT and VT ratios are 20/5 (4:1) and 2200/110 (20:1), and youset the secondary weighting for one pulse per 100Wh, the primary weighting willautomatically be set to 100 x 4 x 20 = 8000.

If the disable VT/CT ratios box on the Metering tab is checked, values can onlybe entered in the secondary box. If the Measurement Type is set to wholecurrent, then the two values are tied in the ratio 1:1.

6. Click on the OK button or another tab to save the output relay settings.

6.4 AUXILIARY INPUT REGISTERS

Indigo+ meters may be configured with up to two 7-digit auxiliary inputregisters, each of which holds a cumulative record of input pulses received from anexternal device, such as a water or gas meter, or the pulse output from anotherIndigo+. The Master Station can define a multiplication factor for the input pulses,and configure the meter display annunciators associated with the inputs.

It is also possible to have each of the external pulse inputs added to one the meter’sinternal registers, provided the register holds similar units to those specified for theexternal inputs. For example, if you defined Pulsed Input 1 as representing inputkVArh, you could then choose to have the external pulses summed with the value inthe meter’s own import kVArh register.

One application of this feature is to enable a metered quantity to be cascadedthrough a chain of meters such that the last one in the chain holds the sum total ofthe quantity measured by all of the individual meters. For example, you could definean output relay function on the first meter as, say, Import kWhs and use this as a


6–9

pulse input to the next meter. If you then sum the second meter’s pulse input with itsImport kWh register, the register will hold the sum of Import kWh measured by bothmeters. This arrangement can be continued over any number of meters.

An alternative use of the auxiliary inputs is to synchronise the integration periods ofmeters with each other or with an external pulse source.

To define an auxiliary input register setting


2. Select Scheme from the Edit menu, and then click on the Input tab in the EditScheme dialogue box.

3. If you want to create a new Input element, click on Save As, and enter a newname in the dialogue box provided.

4. In the Multiplier box, select the pulsed input multiplier value.

The incoming pulse rate is multiplied by this factor before input to the register.The value must be an integer between 1 and 1000.

5. In the Significant Figures select box, choose the number of decimal places towhich the inputs will be displayed on the meter.


6–10

6. Enter an integer value (up to seven digits) in the Register Pre-set box.

This pre-sets the input register to the specified value when the scheme is appliedin the meter.

NOTE: When communicating with meters, there is a function to preset the Auxiliary

input registers, and this takes preference over presets made within the scheme.

7. Depending on the input signal, use the five Annunciator select boxes to definewhat is displayed by the meter’s signal, divisor, and unit annunciators as follows:

• Boxes 1 and 2 (left-hand) - signal (Lead/Lag Import/Export)• Box 3 - display scaling factor (None, x10, x100)• Boxes 4 and 5 - units (k or M, and M3, Wh, Vah, VArh)

8. If you want to sum either of the pulsed inputs with an internal register, select theregister in the corresponding Summation Register Quantity box.

The only registers available for selection wil be those holding the same quantityas defined for the corresponding pulsed input.

9. Click OK or select a different tab in the Edit Scheme dialogue box to save theregister setup.

6.5 SYNCHRONISING INTEGRATION PERIODS

It is possible to synchronise the end of integration periods in an Indigo+ meterwith those in another Indigo+ or with some other pulse source.

To synchronise integration periods

1. If you want to synchronise one Indigo+ meter with another, do the following:

• Program the first meter such that the function of an output relay is selected asIntegration Period Boundary.

• Connect the relevant output relay to auxiliary input 1 or 2 on the secondmeter.

2. If you want to synchronise an Indigo+ meter to an external pulse, connect thepulse source to auxiliary input 1 or 2 on the meter.

3. Using the Master Station to program the meter to be synchronised, select theInput tab, and select the Clock Sync Input to Sync On Aux Input 1 or 2, asappropriate.


6–11

6.6 METER COMMUNICATIONS

The Master Station has two methods of communicating with meters;

• communicating with local meters; those connected directly to the computer.

• communicating with remote meters via the telephone network or Paknet system,or to a hand-held unit for downloading to a meter at a later date.

6.7 COMMUNICATING WITH LOCAL METERS

Communicating with local meters takes place through an optical probe or hand-held unit connected to the computer’s communication port, as specified in the SetupOptions dialogue box. During local communications, tasks such as reading intervaldata, setting the MSID, programming schemes and resetting Maximum Demandregisters can be performed.

To communicate with local meters

1. Choose the Local selection from the Meter Comms menu.


6–12

2. To select which meter to communicate with, do one of the following:

• Click on the Autodetect button to identify the meter currently connected tothe computer.

• Click on the Meter List button, select the required meter from the meter list,and click on the OK button.

3. In the Password box, enter the relevant meter password.

Indigo+ meters have three levels of password security with a set range of tasksthat can be accomplished at each level. You may not be able to complete thecommunication if you do not know the relevant meter password.

4. If required, select the Outstation Address button and enter the required addressin the range 1 to 99.

This feature should only be used if you wish to use the meter daisy-chained withothers on the same Paknet node or modem.

5. To read Interval Data from the meter during communications, do the following:

• Click the Interval Data button.• Select which Interval Data quantity or quantities to read.


6–13

• Check the Since Last Read box to read all Interval data since it was last read,or, in the From and To boxes, enter the boundary dates of the period you wishto read.

6. To read the meter during communication, check the Current Meter Data,Historical Meter Data, and Read Scheme boxes as required.

7. To program the meter with a scheme during communications, do the following:

• Click on the Program Scheme button, and then on the Components button.

• Click on the Whole Scheme button to program the entire scheme, click on theParts button and check the elements you wish to program.

• Click on the OK button to confirm the selection, or on the Cancel button toreturn to the Local Meter Communications dialogue box.

The current scheme loaded is used as the source for the scheme or schemeelements programmed.


6–14

8. To set the meter passwords, click on Set Passwords button, and then on thePasswords button. You will be prompted to enter the new meter passwords. Thesepasswords will be passed to the meter during communications. If the selected meterhas an entry in the meter list, the entry will be updated with the new passwords.

9. To select any of the functions shown, simply click on the relevant box.

10. To define the function and operation of the calibration LED on the meter, checkthe Cal LED box and then select Unmod (un-modulated) or Mod (modulated)kWh or kVAr.

If a Mod option is selected, the LED is modulated at 8kHz.

11. To set the MSID, click on the Set MSID button and enter the MSID in the relevant box.

12. To preset the Auxiliary registers (see Auxiliary Input Registers), click on the PresetAuxiliary Registers button and enter the preset value for the required register. Thisfunction can also be performed from within the Edit Scheme Input tab.

13. To set the meter outstation address, click on the Outstation Address and enterthe required address in the Address box.

14. To set the baud rate for local communications, click the Baud Rate button andchoose the required speed from the Rate select box.

15. To set the Battery Threshold value, click on the Battery Threshold button andenter the appropriate value in days.

The Battery Alarm is triggered by the number of days (as set in the BatteryThreshold box) after the battery is installed, or the battery threshold is set.

16. Click on the Do button to communicate with the meter using the CHIRPSsoftware, or the Done button to return to the Master Station.


6–15

6.8 COMMUNICATING WITH REMOTE METERS

The computer can communicate with remote meters through a modem and thetelephone network, or through the Paknet radio link.

To choose the communications method

1. Choose the Remote selection from the Meter Comms menu.

2. Click either the User-Defined or Choose From List button.

You can either select the meter to communicate with via the meter list, in whichcase the modem/Paknet information will be sourced from the list, or you canenter the details manually.

3. If you have clicked the Choose From List button, click on the Meter List button,choose one or more meters from the list, and then click on the OK button. IfUser-Defined has been selected, do the following:


6–16

• In the Password box, enter the relevant meter password.

Indigo+ meters have three levels of password security, with a set range oftasks that can be accomplished at each level. You may not be able to completethe communication if you do not know the relevant meter password.

• If required, select the Outstation Address button and enter the requiredaddress in the range 001 to 999.

This feature should only be used if the meter is daisy-chained with others onthe same Paknet node or modem.

− Either click on the Modem button and enter the meter phone number, orclick on Paknet button and enter the Paknet ID and Initialisation string

To set communication functions

1. To read Interval Data from the meter during communications, do the following:

• Click the Interval Data button.

• Select which Interval Data quantity or quantities to read.

• Check the Since Last Read box to read all Interval data since the meter waslast read, the All Data box to read all stored data, or, in the From and Toboxes, enter the boundary dates of the period you wish to read.

2. To read meter data during communication, check the Current Meter Data,Historical Meter Data, and Read Scheme boxes as required.

3. To program the meter with a scheme during communications, do the following:

• Click on the Program Scheme button, and then on the Components button.

• Click on the Whole Scheme button to program the entire scheme, click on theParts button and check the elements you wish to program.

• Click on the OK button to confirm the selection, or on the Cancel button toreturn to the Remote Meter Communications dialogue box.

The currently loaded scheme is used as the source for the scheme or schemeelements programmed.

4. To select any of the functions shown, simply check the appropriate box.

5. To set the meter passwords, click on Set Passwords button, and then on thePasswords button. You will be prompted to enter the new meter passwords.These passwords will be passed to the meter during communications. If theselected meter has an entry in the meter list, the entry will be updated with thenew passwords.


6–17

6. To define the function and operation of the calibration LED on the meter, checkthe Cal LED box and then select Unmod (un-modulated) or Mod (modulated)kWh or kVAr.

If a Mod option is selected, the LED is modulated at 8kHz.

7. To set the MSID, click on the Set MSID button and enter the MSID in the relevantbox.

8. To preset the Auxiliary registers (see Auxiliary Input Registers), click on thePreset Auxiliary Registers button and enter the preset value for the requiredregister. This function can also be performed from within the Edit Scheme Inputtab.

9. Click on the Do button to communicate with the meter using the CHIRPSsoftware, or the Done button to return to the Master Station.

Software Special FunctionsSoftware Special FunctionsSoftware Special FunctionsSoftware Special Functions

7–1

7 SOFTWARE SPECIAL FUNCTIONS

7.1 FAST PROGRAM

The Fast Program function can only be used on local meters. When initiated, theMaster Station performs an Autodetect on the connected meter and then programsthe meter with the current Scheme using the CHIRPS software.

To fast program a meter

1. Either press the F3 key from the Master Station main screen, or select the FastProgram Meter option from the Meter Comms menu.

The Master Station will then identify the meter using the CHIRPS software.

2. Once the meter has been identified, make the appropriate selections on the LocalMeter Communications dialogue box. For more details on the options available,see Communicating with Local Meters.


7–2

7.2 FAST READ

The Fast Read function can only be used on local meters. When initiated, theMaster Station performs an Autodetect on the connected meter and then reads theprogrammed scheme into memory using the CHIRPS software. The informationretrieved can be viewed using the Master Station main screen or by the Edit Schemedialogue box.

To fast read a meter

• Either press the F2 key from the Master Station main screen, or select the FastRead Meter option from the Meter Comms menu.


7–3

7.3 CALIBRATING METERS

The Master Station allows for the calibration of meters to compensate for knowninaccuracies in the CT and VT transformers.

Before calibrating a meter, you should read the current calibration details from themeter before changing the settings. Calibration of meters can only be performed as alocal function - that is, when the meter is directly connected to the computer via theoptical port (see note).

To calibrate a meter

1. Choose the Utilities option from the Meter Comms menu, and then choose Calibrate.

2. Click on the Read Current Settings button to download the current metercalibration settings.

When the meter calibration settings have been downloaded, they will be shownunder Gain Adjustments and Power Factor Adjustments.


7–4

3. To return the meter to factory defaults (0% errors) click on the Factory Defaultsbutton.

4. To adjust the Gain or Power Factor settings, do the following:

• Either enter the required value in the relevant box or use the increase anddecrease adjustment buttons by each box. The upper and lower limits for eachvalue are indicated at the side of each field.

• Click on the Program New Settings button to program the meter with thedisplayed settings using the CHIRPS software, or on the Cancel button toreturn to the Master Station.

NOTE: Meter calibration information can be read at any time. Meters can be calibrated only

if the RECAL jumper on the meter PCB is moved to the right-hand position. See the

Indigo+ Technical Guide for details of the jumper settings.


7–5

7.4 COMMISSIONING METERS

The commissioning function allows a record of the current meter settings to bekept, either in a printed form, or saved as a file suitable, for instance, for inclusion ina database.

Commissioning of meters can only be performed as a local function - that is, whenthe meter is directly connected to the computer via the optical port.

To commission a meter

1. Choose the Utilities option from the Meter Comms menu, and then chooseCommission.

A commissioning form will be displayed, giving details of the meter setup.

2. If required, use the Save button to store the form on disk and then Windows“Notepad” application to print a hard copy.


7–6

7.5 READ RESPONSE FILE

Following every communication, the Master Station automatically generates aresponse file detailing the results of the communication.

For response Files Transferred from HHU to IIMS directory , the file can be converted toeither Current , Historical , Interval Data ,etc, etc , using following procedure.

To read the response file and convert it to IIMS data format.

1. Select the Read Response File option from the Meter Comms menu.

2. In the Choose Response Filename dialogue box, highlight the required responsefile and click on the OK button.

The response file will then be shown in the Meter Communications Resultsdialogue box.


7–7

3. To close the Meter Communications Results dialogue box, click on OK button.

4. The Response files above have been converted into the appropriate IIMS dataformats and can now be viewed as Normal Files , using the File Open commandsfrom within the IIMS software.

7.6 CHIRPS

The Master Station uses an application called CHIRPS to communicate withlocal and remote meters. The software is executed directly by the Master Station andneeds no user input.

The CHIRPS software consists of one main window, and two ‘child’ windowscontained within. One of the child windows displays the current state of thetransmission in blocks of data sent and received and the other shows the commandsbeing sent to the meter.


7–8

Once communication has ceased, the CHIRPS application will close automaticallyand the Master Station will indicate the functions that were carried out duringcommunication. Once this dialogue box appears, click on the control box and selectClose from the menu to return to the Master Station screen.

7.7 SETTING OPTIONS

The Options dialogue box under Setup allows the setting of site-specificinformation. The element functions in the dialogue are given below. Use thisinformation to set options as required.


7–9

Element Function

User Activity Time-Out After a set period of keyboard / mouse inactivity, theMaster Station re-enables the login, and the user isrequired to re-enter name and password. If a differentusername is entered, the current Master Station activity isclosed. This period of time is the User Activity Time-Outvalue, and can be set between 1 and 20 minutes. Thisfunction cannot be disabled.

Dialout Prefix If the modem requires a prefix to access an outside line,enter the prefix here.

Comm Ports Select the required comm port for each type of metercommunication, and set the relevant baud rate.

PC always on BMT This box should be checked if local time is shifted at setdates in the year (usually for daylight saving), but the PCclock is left at the standard local time all year round.Whenthe box is checked, the Master Station will automaticallyadjust times sent to meters if:1.the scheme includesdaylight saving settings, and:2. the date (derived from thePC calendar) is within the daylight saving period.

Disable Password For security, meter passwords are normally stored inEncryption encrypted form in the meter list file. If this box is checked,

they will be stored as plain text instead. This may beuseful, for example, where the list files are to be importedinto an external database.

Meter Group Names These fields define the default Group Names. Enter up to20 alphanumeric characters including spaces andpunctuation.

Directories The directory settings are used by the Master Station asthe path for saving element and scheme files, meter lists,and interval and meter data. When constructing orchoosing schemes, the Master Station makes available theelements or schemes stored in the Scheme Files directory.

Meter List FunctionsMeter List FunctionsMeter List FunctionsMeter List Functions

7a–1

7a METER LIST FUNCTIONS

7a.1 MAINTAINING THE METER LIST

The Meter List is a database containing specific details related to individual metersand batches of meters. These include the relevant modem number or Paknet address,meter passwords and serial numbers. In addition to various set requirements, the meter listcan store information in ten user-definable Group Name fields. Search facilities areprovided for locating meters in the list by serial number or by any of the group names.From the Meter List, you can:

• Add a single meter or group of meters to the meter list.• Edit the information relating to a meter or a group of meters, including setting the

meter passwords.• Search through the list by various criteria to find a listed meter or group of meters.• Import meter information from another file and merge it with the existing meter list.• Export parts of, or the whole of a meter list to a separate file.• Export the meter list to a database-compatible file


7a–2

7a.2 ADDING A SINGLE METER TO THE METER LIST

Adding a single meter to the meter list involves entering a unique serial numberfor each meter and providing the Master Station with details of the type andconfiguration of the meter. In addition, you can also enter details in any of the tendatabase fields and set the meter access passwords.

To add a single meter to the meter listTo add a single meter to the meter listTo add a single meter to the meter listTo add a single meter to the meter list

1. Choose the Meter List option from the Setup menu.

2. Click on the Add button.

3. Enter a unique serial number for the new meter.

The serial number must be no more than 12 characters long and can include allalphanumeric and other characters, spaces and punctuation. If the serial numberentered is currently in use, you will be notified and prompted to enter another.

4. Click OK to confirm the serial number and display the Meter Data Edit dialogue.


7a–3

5. Select the correct Meter Type and Measurement type for the meter you areadding, then click the Settings button and make the appropriate selections in theMeter Measurement Type Form. Click OK to confirm the settings.

6. In the Type box, select the meter type from the pull-down list.

7. In the Measurement Type box, select the appropriate meter measurement typefrom the pull-down list.

8. If the meter measurement type is set to CT Operated or VT/CT operated, selectthe appropriate VT and/or CT Primary settings.

9. In the Connection Type box, choose Modem or Paknet.


• If the Connection Type is set to modem, enter the meter phone number in thePhone Number box.

• If the Connection Type is set to Paknet, enter the Paknet Pad ID number inthe Paknet ID box.

11. If the meter is one of a daisy-chained group, enter the meter outstation addressin the Outstation Address box.

12. If required, enter up to three meter passwords in the Passwords section.

13. If required, enter information in the Group Names database section.

14. When complete, click on the OK button to enter the contents of the dialogue boxinto the meter list, or on the Cancel button to abandon the information enteredand return to the Meter List dialogue box.


7a–4

7a.3 ADDING A GROUP OF METERS TO THE METER LIST

You can use the Batch Load function to add up to 99 meters to the meter list,each containing similar details. The meter settings can then later be individualisedusing the Edit Meter List function.

To add a group of meters to the meter listTo add a group of meters to the meter listTo add a group of meters to the meter listTo add a group of meters to the meter list

1. Select the Meter List option from the Setup menu.

2. Click on the Batch Load button.

3. In the Start box, enter the first serial number for the meter group.

Although the serial number can contain letters, spaces and other symbols, it isbest to use only numerals when using the Batch Load function as othercharacters can cause errors.


7a–5

4. In the Number of Meters box, enter the number of meters in the batch.

The Master Station automatically assigns a unique serial number to each meterbased upon an initial serial number and the number of meters in the batch. Thefinal serial number will be displayed in the End section. If any of the numbersmatches those of an existing meter, you will be prompted on saving to overwritethe existing meter or to keep the original setting.

5. Select the appropriate meter Type and Measurement Type. If necessary, theseand the associated settings (VT/CT, etc.) can be changed for individual metersthrough the Edit Meter List later.

6. If required, make appropriate entries in the Phone Number, Paknet pad IDnumber and Outstation Address boxes.

Since they cannot be incremented in the same way as the serial number, they areintended primarily for instances where part of the number - such as a diallingcode - will be the same for all meters in the batch. The entries for individualmeters can be completed later.

7. If required, enter up to three meter passwords in the Passwords section.

8. If required, enter information in the Group Names database section. Each entrycan contain up to 20 alphanumeric and other characters, spaces, andpunctuation symbols.

9. Click on the OK button to add the meters to the meter list, or on the Cancelbutton to abandon the entries and return to the Meter List dialogue box.


7a–6

7a.4 EDITING METER INFORMATION

The Master Station allows the contents of existing meter entries to be viewed oredited after creation, for instance, to update the modem phone number or change agroup name entry.

To edit a meter entryTo edit a meter entryTo edit a meter entryTo edit a meter entry


2. On the Meter List, highlight the entry to be edited, using the search or sortfunctions if necessary.

3. Double-click on the required entry, or click the Edit button.

4. Edit the meter information as required (see Adding a Single Meter to the MeterList for more information).

5. Click on the OK button to save the changes, or on the Cancel button to abandonthe edit and return to the Meter List dialogue box.


7a–7

7a.5 SEARCHING THE METER LIST

The sort and search functions in the meter list provide a quick way of finding andidentifying individual meters within the meter list. The sort function lists all themeters in numerical or alphabetical order of serial number, MSID or one of the groupnames. The search function locates the next instance of a specified group name orserial number within the meter list.

To sort the meter listTo sort the meter listTo sort the meter listTo sort the meter list


2. In the Sort box, select the required sort category.

To search the meter listTo search the meter listTo search the meter listTo search the meter list


2. In the Search box, enter the required group name or serial number.

3. Click the Search Serial or Search Group button, as appropriate.

If the search is successful, the Master Station will highlight the result of the search. Ifmore than one entry meets the search criteria, the first such entry is highlighted. Byrepeatedly clicking on the search button, all entries fulfilling the search criteria willbe shown.

Data Handling Operating DescriptionsData Handling Operating DescriptionsData Handling Operating DescriptionsData Handling Operating Descriptions

7b–1

7b DATA HANDLING OPERATING DESCRIPTIONS

7b.1 IMPORTING AND EXPORTING METER INFORMATION

The Master Station allows for individual entries, or groups of meter entries, to besaved as a separate file for inclusion into a database or transfer to another site. TheMaster Station can also accept meter entries saved as a file and add them to theexisting meter list.

To export individual or groups of meter entriesTo export individual or groups of meter entriesTo export individual or groups of meter entriesTo export individual or groups of meter entries


2. On the meter list, highlight those meter entries you wish to export.

3. Click on the Export button.

4. On the Save As dialogue box, enter a filename and path for the meter entries file.

5. Click on the OK button to save the meter entries as a file, or on the Cancelbutton to abandon the operation and return to the Meter List dialogue box.


7b–2

To import a meter list file and merge it with the existing listTo import a meter list file and merge it with the existing listTo import a meter list file and merge it with the existing listTo import a meter list file and merge it with the existing list


2. Click on the Merge button.

3. On the Open dialogue box, select the required meter entries file.

4. Click on the OK button to merge the selected meter entries file with the currentmeter list, or click on the Cancel button to abandon the operation and return tothe Meter List dialogue box.

If a meter in the meter entries file has the same serial number as a meter in theexisting meter list, you will be prompted on which action to take. Click on the Yesbutton to overwrite the existing entry and replace it with the loaded entry, click onthe Yes To All button to overwrite this and every other such entry, click on the Nobutton to keep the existing meter entry, or click on the Cancel button to abandon themerge.


7b–3

7b.2 METER PASSWORDS

Indigo+ meters are equipped with a password function to control access toreading and programming of the meter. There are three security levels controllingaccess to normal reading and programming functions, plus a further level forcalibration and similar high-level functions. In addition to a password, this level alsorequires the configuration of a hardware link within the meter (refer to the Indigo+technical guide for information).

The functions available at each password level are listed below:

Password Level Functions Available

Level 1 Read All Meter DataLevel 2 MD Reset Time Adjust

Time and Date Re-programProgram DST DatesClear RED

Level 3 Program Meter SchemeProgram PasswordsProgram Auxiliary Input Registers

Level 3 plus hardware link Meter calibrationVT/CT CompensationZero meter registersTake meter out of default

7b.3 FILE MANAGEMENT

This section covers all aspects of file management within the Master Stationapplication including opening files, importing and exporting data, and saving data astext.

Opening a Saved File

Importing Scheme Information from a Different Directory

Exporting Scheme Files or Elements

Saving Information as Text

Copying to the Clipboard


7b–4

7b.4 OPENING A SAVED FILE

Use this procedure for loading any previously saved scheme, meter data file, orinterval data file, either for viewing or editing.

To open a saved fileTo open a saved fileTo open a saved fileTo open a saved file

1. Choose the Open selection from the File menu or click on the Open File buttonon the toolbar.

The open file button

2. In the List Files of Type selection box, choose which sort of file you wish toopen.

3. If the required file is located in a different directory, change to the relevantdirectory / drive.

4. Select the required file from the File Name list box.

5. Click on the OK button to load the selected file, or Cancel to abort the operationand return you to the Master Station.

The Master Station screen will now show a breakdown of the information justloaded.


7b–5

7b.5 IMPORTING SCHEME INFORMATION FROM A DIFFERENT DIRECTORY

When choosing schemes and assembling scheme elements, the options availablein the Edit Scheme dialogue box are only those stored in the default Scheme Filesdirectory as set in the Setup Options dialogue box. Consequently, to make availablefiles saved in another directory, you must transfer all scheme and element files intothe default directory. This is known as Importing scheme information.

To import scheme filesTo import scheme filesTo import scheme filesTo import scheme files

1. Ensure that the Scheme Files directory in the Setup Options dialogue box iscorrect.

All files imported automatically get copied to this directory.

2. Choose the Import Scheme option from the File menu.

3. Select the required disk / directory to import from.

4. Click on the OK button to import all scheme files or on the Cancel button toabort the operation and return to the Master Station.

If there are duplicate filenames in the source and destination directories, youwill be prompted to confirm the overwrite.


7b–6

7b.6 EXPORTING SCHEME FILES OR ELEMENTS

The Export Scheme function provides a means of copying a whole scheme orany individual scheme elements to a specified directory or disk.

To export a scheme or scheme elementsTo export a scheme or scheme elementsTo export a scheme or scheme elementsTo export a scheme or scheme elements

1. Open the scheme you wish to export.

This can be done using the Open File function or by selecting the requiredscheme in the Edit Scheme dialogue box. The required scheme should bedisplayed on the Master Station screen.

2. From the File menu, chose the Export Scheme selection.

3. Choose either Whole Scheme to export the entire scheme, or select Parts andcheck the boxes for those elements you wish to export.

4. Click on the OK button.

5. Select the required disk / directory to export to.

6. Click on the OK button to export or click on the Cancel button to abort theoperation and return to the Master Station.

When exporting, the Master Station does not check the destination directory forscheme files and will consequently overwrite any existing file without warning.


7b–7

7b.7 SAVING INFORMATION AS TEXT

This function allows you to save a scheme, communications history, or set ofmeter, interval or calibration data as a standard ASCII text file. This information canthen be edited by any basic text editor such as Windows Notepad.

To save information as textTo save information as textTo save information as textTo save information as text

1. Use the View Change buttons or the options from the View menu to display onthe Master Station screen the information that you wish to save.

2. Choose the Save As Text selection from the file menu or click on the Save AsText button on the toolbar.

The Save As Text button

3. If you wish to save the file in a different directory to that shown, select therelevant disk / directory.

4. In the File Name box, enter a filename for the text file. It is recommended,though not necessary, to follow the convention of having the .txt extension fortext files.

5. Click on the OK button to save the displayed information as a text file or on theCancel button to abort the operation and return you to the Master Station.


7b–8

7b.8 COPYING TO THE CLIPBOARD

This function allows you to copy the visible data to the Windows Clipboard forpasting onto another application.

To copy data to the clipboardTo copy data to the clipboardTo copy data to the clipboardTo copy data to the clipboard

1. Use the View Change buttons or the options from the View menu (see ViewingData) to display on the Master Station screen the information that you wish tocopy.

2. Click on the Copy to Clipboard button on the toolbar.

The Copy to Clipboard button

The data can now be pasted onto another Windows application.

7b.9 PRINTING DATA

The Master Station can print communications history, scheme, interval, meterand calibration data directly to any printer installed on Windows. The Master Stationcan also display a preview of how the printed copy will appear.

The Print Button.

• For information on the Print function, refer to Printing Scheme, Meter, or IntervalData.

• For information on the Print Preview function, refer to Print Preview.


7b–9

7b.10 PRINT PREVIEW

Print Preview allows you to see how scheme overview, communications history,or interval, meter or calibration data pages will appear when printed.

To preview a scheme or data print-outTo preview a scheme or data print-outTo preview a scheme or data print-outTo preview a scheme or data print-out

1. Use the display buttons on the toolbar or the options from the View menu todisplay on the Master Station screen the information that you wish to print.

2. From the File menu, choose the Print Preview option.

3. Examine the preview using the following functions if required:

• Use the Next Page and Previous Page buttons to examine different pages.

• To display two pages on the same screen, click on the Two Page button. Todisplay a single page, click on the One Page button.

• Use the Zoom In and Zoom Out buttons to examine pages in greater detail.

4. Click on the Print button to print the scheme or data, or click on the Closebutton to return to the Master Station.


7b–10

7b.11 SELECTING AND SETTING-UP THE PRINTER

Selecting the correct printer and setting-up the printer correctly ensures that allprinted reports appear correctly. The printer setup routine changes with each printer,but is accessible from the Master Station in two ways:

• Choosing the Print Setup option from the File menu.

• Clicking on the Setup button on the Print dialogue box.


7b–11

7b.12 PRINTING SCHEME, METER, OR INTERVAL DATA

The Master Station allows hard copy production of the scheme overview,communications history, interval, meter and calibration data information.Before printing, it is advisable to select and set up the printer. If required, you canalso select the font attributes the printer uses when compiling the reports.

To print out required informationTo print out required informationTo print out required informationTo print out required information

1. Use the display buttons on the toolbar or the options from the View menu todisplay on the Master Station screen the information that you wish to print.

2. Either click on the Print button on the toolbar, or from the File menu, choose thePrint option.

The Print button

3. Either select All to print every page, or click on the Pages button and select therange of pages to print.

4. If required, choose the print resolution in the Print Quality selection box.

5. In the Copies box, choose how many copies of the report you wish to produce. Ifyou are printing multiple copies, checking the Collate Copies box will put eachpage in the correct order for each copy.

6. Click on the OK button to print the report, or click on the Cancel button to abortthe process and return to the Master Station.


7b–12

7b.13 VIEWING DATA

The centre of the Master Station window (see The Support Tool Screen) candisplay scheme, calibration, communication, meter or interval data, provided therelevant data has been loaded or communication with a meter has taken place.

To view data screensTo view data screensTo view data screensTo view data screens


• Select the relevant option from the View menu.

• Click on the relevant View Change button on the Toolbar.

The Scheme Details button

The Meter Data button

The Interval Data button

The Communication History button

The Calibration Log button

If the required selection is ‘greyed out’ and unavailable, then the data you wish toview has not been loaded or has not been generated by the Master Station.

Documents

Indigo Software Guide