DT Logger Host Instruction Manual Mobile Platform: Document Number: Release Date
DT Logger Host Instruction Manual Mobile Platform: Document Number: Release Date
DT Logger Host Instruction Manual Mobile Platform: Document Number: Release Date
Instruction Manual
Mobile Platform
All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the
information contained in this document. RST Instruments Ltd reserves the
right to change the information at any time and assumes no liability for its
accuracy.
ELM0081D
DT Logger Host Instruction Manual – Mobile Platform
TABLE OF REVISIONS
Rev. Revision History Date Prepared Approved
By By
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 1
QUICK-START INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................................... 3
2.1 SINGLE CHANNEL DATALOGGER SETUP ...................................................................... 3
2.2 MULTICHANNEL DATALOGGER SETUP ......................................................................... 3
2.3 TILT LOGGER SETUP ................................................................................................. 4
2.4 4 TO 20MA LOGGER SETUP ....................................................................................... 4
2.5 POTENTIOMETER LOGGER SETUP .............................................................................. 5
2.6 DT-BUS DATALOGGER SETUP ................................................................................... 5
2.7 DATALOGGER CONFIGURATION .................................................................................. 6
2.8 DOWNLOADING DATA ................................................................................................ 6
READOUT UNIT................................................................................................................ 7
3.1 USING THE ULTRA-RUGGED FIELD PC2™ .................................................................. 8
DATALOGGER CONNECTION ............................................................................................. 9
4.1 WIRED CONNECTION ................................................................................................. 9
4.2 WIRELESS CONNECTION USING RST DT LINK MODULE ................................................ 9
4.3 WIRELESS CONNECTION USING RSTAR SYSTEM ...................................................... 12
4.4 LOGGER OPTIONS ................................................................................................... 12
4.4.1 BACKUP AND RESTORE ..................................................................................... 13
4.4.2 ADVANCED OPTIONS ......................................................................................... 14
LOGGER MENU.............................................................................................................. 16
5.1 VIBRATING W IRE LOGGERS (DT2011, DT2055, DT2055B, DT2040, DT2011B) ............
.............................................................................................................................. 16
5.1.1 STATUS ............................................................................................................ 16
5.1.2 VIEW DATA ....................................................................................................... 18
5.1.3 MONITOR ......................................................................................................... 18
5.1.4 GRAPH ............................................................................................................. 19
5.1.5 LOGGING .......................................................................................................... 20
5.1.6 SENSORS ......................................................................................................... 24
5.1.6.A VW SENSOR CONFIGURATION SCREEN ....................................................... 26
5.1.6.B THERMAL SENSOR CONFIGURATION SCREEN ............................................... 29
5.2 4 TO 20MA LOGGER (DT4205) ................................................................................ 30
5.2.1 STATUS ............................................................................................................ 30
5.2.2 VIEW DATA ....................................................................................................... 31
5.2.3 MONITOR ......................................................................................................... 32
5.2.4 GRAPH ............................................................................................................. 33
5.2.5 LOGGING .......................................................................................................... 34
5.2.6 SENSORS ......................................................................................................... 38
5.2.6.A 4 TO 20MA SENSOR CONFIGURATION SCREEN ............................................. 41
5.2.6.B THERMAL SENSOR CONFIGURATION SCREEN ............................................... 43
5.3 TILT LOGGER (IC6560, IC6660, DTL201B AND DTL202B) ....................................... 44
5.3.1 STATUS ............................................................................................................ 44
5.3.2 VIEW DATA ....................................................................................................... 45
5.3.3 MONITOR ......................................................................................................... 47
5.3.4 GRAPH ............................................................................................................. 48
5.3.5 LOGGING .......................................................................................................... 49
5.3.6 SENSORS ......................................................................................................... 52
LIST OF TABLES
OVERVIEW
The RST Single Channel and Multi Channel Dataloggers were intended to be low cost,
simple to use, battery powered data loggers, designed for reliable, unattended monitoring of
a mix of vibrating wire sensors and thermistors. They are deployable in harsh environments
and as compact as possible. The user-friendly software allows easy downloading of the data
and maintenance in the field. The software is preinstalled on an Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™
that can withstand often demanding field conditions. Even users with very little experience
with Geotechnical Instruments will be able to connect, download data and change settings
with a matter of a few inputs. Moreover, the DT Logger host software is fully compatible with
RST Single Channel Datalogger, the same software interface can be used to configure and
download data from either Multichannel or Single Channel logger.
DT Logger Host software is compatible with the following RST Instruments dataloggers:
• DT2011 (discontinued, replaced by DT2011B)
• DT2011B (single channel logger, vibrating wire and thermistor)
• DT2055 (discontinued, replaced by DT2055B)
• DT2055B (10 channel logger, vibrating wire and thermistor)
• DT2040 (40 channel logger, vibrating wire and thermistor)
• IC6560 (uniaxial tilt logger)
• IC6660 (biaxial tilt logger)
• DTL201B-2B (uniaxial and biaxial tilt logger)
• DT4205 (10 channel logger, 4 to 20mA and thermistor)
• DT2306 (18 channel potentiometer logger)
• DT2485 DT-BUS logger
• DT2033 Wireless Downhole logger
• DT2350 Strain logger
Supported loggers are shown in Figure 1 for reference.
QUICK-START INSTRUCTIONS
The following is a brief outline with references to other parts of this manual to get you up and
running quickly with the RST Multi Channel Datalogger:
3. Using the supplied COM cable, connect the DT2011 RS232 to the Ultra-Rugged
Field PC2™ serial port. Select RS232 from pull down menu on Status screen.
4. Using the supplied USB cable, connect the DT2011B USB to the Ultra-Rugged Field
PC2™ USB A port (white). Select USB from pull down menu on Status screen.
Note
If a pop-up dialog shows up asking for a driver name, type in ftdi_ser.dll in full.
READOUT UNIT
The Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™ (Figure 5) is well suited for use in the often-demanding field
conditions. All connections are conveniently located on the front of the case, after taking
readings the cover should be always put back in place to protect connectors.
Bottom Image
22. USB client (micro USB)
23. Microphone/Headphones jack
24. 12V DC jack
25. USB host (full size USB)
26. 9-pin serial port
Note
DC charging is done through the 12V DC jack (barrel connector, bottom left of the unit).
FieldPC2 has many other features. For complete list of all FieldPC2 features and detailed
instructions, please refer to FieldPC2 manual in PDF format Archer-2-Manual.pdf or
available for download:
http://www.junipersys.com/content/download/12916/197827/version/2/file/Archer-2-
Manual.pdf
DATALOGGER CONNECTION
Once the datalogger is connected to the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™, turn on the power to the
Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™ by pressing the power button (Figure 6). X
Use the stylus to navigate through the operating environment. If you are unfamiliar with the
Windows Mobile operating environment, please refer to the “Archer-2-Manual” which is
accessible from the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™ programs window.
From the Start menu, choose: DT Logger Host to launch the RST DT Logger Host Software.
The logger menu appears when the program is initially launched. The menu contains six
tabs: Status, Mon, Log, Sensors, and Exit. Each tab option is explained in detail below. Until
successful logger connection, all tabs are inaccessible except Status.
Settings
Settings button will show DT Link Hub Settings dialog for changing various wireless options
(Figure 9).
All loggers belonging to the same network need the same Hub Address and Network ID.
Advanced tab will show additional communication parameters.
Click Query Logger to retrieve all parameters.
Note
RST data logger shipped as part of a DT Link system have all settings preconfigured. It is
strongly recommended to contact RST personnel before modifying any DT Link settings.
Ping
To verify logger accessibility, click Ping button. The software will try to retrieve basic
information from selected logger: Download Time, Record Number, Label and wireless
signal strength. Click Stop to stop pinging.
Connecting loggers
Click Connect button to establish wireless communication link with selected logger. Upon
successful connection, logger status is retrieved and the software will automatically switch to
Status tab. Click Disconnect button to disconnect and switch back to wireless logger list.
Download
For speedy data download, click Download button. The software will connect to selected
logger, download all data to a file and disconnect wireless connection. Select Append radio
button to keep historical data or select Overwrite radio button to restart logging after data
download.
1. All Ultra-Rugged Field PC’s come with the Field PC storage location however,
optional Flash™ Storage Cards are additional and are available through RST.
2. Choose from the several options whether you would like to Restore, Backup or
Synchronize the files. Check boxes allow the options of overwriting files if desired.
3. Press the desired button to initiate the function.
4. Press Close to exit this screen.
Note
Proper data management is very important. The Ultra-Rugged Field PC, in conjunction
with its onboard and optional non-volatile memory storage areas, and its ability to
synchronize with a desktop PC, allows several options for backing up the data. At the
same time, with all these options, data files can be confused with each other if not
managed properly. After taking readings in the field it is always a good idea to back the
files up in a safe location (i.e. network server etc.) back at the office using the ActiveSync
software. Additional copies of this information will always be stored in the Field PC
memory area should the main memory of the Ultra-Rugged Field PC become erased. Be
sure to clear the Field PC memory of unneeded files on a regular basis to keep the files
easily manageable.
Important
Because the Ultra-Rugged Field PC uses some power to maintain files in RAM and the
clock, you need to recharge the battery regularly. Keep the Ultra-Rugged Field PC
connected on AC or DC power while you are at your desk. The best policy is to keep the
Ultra-Rugged Field PC connected to your computer when working at your desk and carry
your AC adapter and DC adapter plug with you when traveling. Your Ultra-Rugged Field
PC is shipped with a charge on the battery. You may want to ensure that it is fully charged
before synchronizing. The Ultra-Rugged Field PC battery will provide approximately 20
hours of borehole survey time (when connected to the probe).
LOGGER MENU
Once the datalogger is connected to the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™, turn on the power to the
Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™ by pressing the power button (Figure 6). X
Use the stylus to navigate through the operating environment. If you are unfamiliar with the
Windows Mobile operating environment, please refer to the “Archer-2-Manual” which is
accessible from the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2™ programs window.
From the Start menu, choose: DT Logger Host to launch the RST DT Logger Host Software.
The logger menu appears when the program is initially launched. The menu contains six
tabs: Status, Mon, Log, Sensors, and Exit. Each tab option is explained in detail below. Until
successful logger connection, all tabs are inaccessible except Status.
Sampling
Provides information about the status of the logger. This includes whether or not it is logging,
the log interval, and various time parameters.
Battery
Displays the past battery voltage recorded when sample was taken, current battery voltage
and the estimated battery life. To ensure uninterrupted operation, replace batteries when
estimated battery life is getting low.
Note
Battery past value depends on the recorded data availability and the firmware version
installed.
Refer to Section 9.4 for battery replacement instructions. Multichannel logger uses special
long-life lithium battery; contact RST for replacement part.
DT2011 uses two AA alkaline batteries. See Section 9.4.2 for Single Channel logger battery
information.
Mode
The RST DT Logger Host software connects to either the RST USB Dataloggers or RST
RS232 Datalogger. Select the device you wish to access and press Connect button.
Collect Data
If the datalogger has already been configured to collect data at a specified interval, the
Collect Data button can be pressed. The program will download the data (a progress bar will
be displayed) and automatically write it to a *.csv file in \My Documents\Multichannel\.
Please see Section 7 for the *.csv file format.
X
Note
When pressing the Collect Data button, after the data download completes, the program
will give a choice to keep or erase the data currently contained in the datalogger. If the
datalogger memory is not erased, the next time the data is collected (and no parameters
have been changed) it will download the current readings and all of the previous data to a
*.csv file.
The current memory can also be erased by pressing the Apply Settings in the Logging
tab or Apply in Sensors tab. The program will prompt you to confirm the erasing of data
from its memory.
RST Logo
Press the RST Logo button to display DT Logger Host version and copyright information.
Figure 15: File Listing Screen Figure 16: File View Screen
By selecting desired filename and pressing View File, the contents of the data file are
displayed in the table. The status bar at the top of the screen shows the total number of
recordings and the current line number. The sample screen is shown in Figure 16.
Note
Data View displays major datalogger settings and all saved data records. Use text file
viewer or spread sheet program (ex. MS Excel™) to see the entire file
5.1.3 MONITOR
Selecting the monitor tab sets the datalogger into monitor mode. The screen reports in B-
units (f2x10-3) or the thermistor temperature in degrees Celsius (Figure 17 and Figure 18).
If successfully connected to the datalogger, the sensor reading or temperature reading is
updated approximately once per two seconds. Dot indicator flashes each time a sensor data
is updated. Clicking the check boxes changes the display to Engineering Units, or thermistor
resistance. For Fahrenheit temperature units, check the appropriate box in Sensors tab.
Display Format
Click on F button to customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or
switch to scientific display.
Note
Engineering Units are only available when sensor calibration data and conversion method
is set in Sensors page. Please see Section 5.1.6 for the instructions on entering
calibration data.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
Sensor Reading fields.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
5.1.4 GRAPH
The graph button invokes the datalogger graphical monitor for selected sensor. Recent
monitor readings are displayed then in a Sensor Reading vs. Time graph (Figure 19). If
successfully connected, the graphical monitor is updated approximately once every two
seconds. Initially, the graphical screen needs few seconds to auto calculate axis ranges.
The real time sensor reading is displayed below the graph window. Manual “Scale” slider bar
is provided for fine tuning of graph vertical scale.
Note
The Graph screen will be refreshed when engineering units are changed or relevant
settings are changed.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
sensor reading area.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
The “Scale” slider is disabled when manual scale settings are used in Graphical Monitor
Options.
The “Settings” button launches the Graphical Monitor Options dialog (Figure 20), which
allows the user to manipulate the graph. Options include the ability to display Engineering
Units, set minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), and set the time range of
monitor data points displayed (x-axis, range between 1 minute and 2 hours).
To manually adjust the minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), the “Auto”
checkboxes need to be cleared.
5.1.5 LOGGING
The Logging tab (Figure 21) contains three main components: Interval, Logger Options and
Clock Options.
Logger Label
Custom label can be entered if desired. Press the Update Label button to change logger
label.
Interval
This section is used to set the logging interval. Fixed interval and Multi interval options are
available. The fixed logging interval can be invoked by choosing the “Fixed” radio button and
set within the main setup tab. Arrow buttons allow the user to scroll up or down pre-set
values.
To setup the logger with multiple intervals, select the Multi (Advanced) radio button. Clicking
the Advanced button launches the Multi Interval Table dialog (Figure 22), where up to 12
custom, multiple intervals can be applied.
Note
Each interval MUST have an iteration except the last iteration which must be set to zero.
This tells the program that the logger will continue at the last iteration rate.
The memory capacity depends on logger hardware. Multichannel logger data recording
capability ranges from up to 303,030 records with 2 sensors connected and 106,470 records
in 10 sensor configurations. Single Channel Loggers can hold up to a maximum of 32,000
iterations for all intervals. The dialog features an Interval Fill Time field, which allows the
user to see the exact time, relative to the start time of the interval, the interval iterations will
finish. To update both the Interval Fill Time and Total Iterations field, click the “Update”
button. To save changes, click the “Save” button.
Logger Options
Start Time: A check box can be selected to enable a custom start time. The hour and minute
can be entered in 24-hour format.
Note
If a custom start time is entered and this time has already past, the logger will not start
until 24 hours has passed. For example: If the current time is 13:01 and the start time is
set to 13:00, the datalogger will not start logging data until 13:00 the next day.
If a custom start time is applied, i.e. for some time in the future, the Status will read Log
Pending until that interval is reached.
Wrap on Mem Full (Overwrite Data): When the datalogger memory becomes full, it will
overwrite itself.
Stop on Mem Full: Datalogger stops collecting data when it reaches its memory storage
limit.
Clock Options
Allows the user to set the date and time of the datalogger. Checking the Auto Sync Time
checkbox will update datalogger internal clock each time Apply Settings button is pressed.
Options
The Options button displays pull down menu with Logger and Wireless entries.
Logger:
Allows changing several advanced settings, the exact view depends on the type of the
connected datalogger.
Wireless:
Wireless system configuration settings. For further information on Wireless settings, see
Section 8.
Note
During logging settings upload, all existing logger data will be erased. Ensure to download
data prior to changing logging settings. Sensor configuration will not be affected.
Advanced Settings
The DT Logger Host software includes special features for advanced troubleshooting and
data retrieval. They are to be used with assistance of RST Instruments technical staff in case
of corrupted data.
5.1.6 SENSORS
The DT Logger Host Software Sensors tab will display one of two types of sensor
configuration screens, depending on sensor type. The following buttons are common to all
sensor configuration screens:
Add Sensor
To add thermistor sensor, select Add Temp Sensor. The screen will show controls for setting
up thermal sensor.
To insert vibrating wire sensor at current location, select Ins VW Sensor. The screen will
change to VW mode.
To insert thermistor sensor, select Ins Temp Sensor. The screen will show controls for
setting up thermal sensor.
Select New Copy to add copy of currently viewed sensor configuration screen.
Delete
Deletes currently displayed sensor configuration.
| button
Use this button to remove all sensors except the first two.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu.
Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
Customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or switch to scientific
display.
Verify
Once sensor configuration is saved and sensors connected, click on Verify to detect and
verify current setup. Each connection is tested and results displayed.
The following parameters are shown:
• Sensor label
• Pre-configured (Expected) sensor type
• Detected sensor type
• Measured sensor resistance in Ohms
When detected sensor parameters appear correct, background color turns green, otherwise
background color turns red to indicate error.
The sample screen is shown on Figure 24.
Apply
As a reminder, whenever ANY changes are made under the Sensors tab, the Apply button
must be pressed in order to update the logger with the current sensor settings.
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Figure 27: Custom Vibrating Wire Figure 28: Decrement and Sweep
Settings Time options
Enter the desired Sweep Time and click Recalc. The program will calculate Decrement and
Sweep Time and give option to choose optimal parameters
Conversion Method
The user is given an option to apply either a Linear or Polynomial Conversion. If Linear
conversion in selected, input the provided Calibration Factor and Zero Reading into the
appropriate boxes.
If polynomial conversion is selected, input the provided coefficients (A, B & C) into the
appropriate boxes.
Temperature Correction
When the Temp Corr box is checked, the software will apply a temperature correction to the
data. This requires the user to enter in the temperature correction factor and an initial
temperature which is found on the calibration sheet for that particular instrument. Then
select thermistor sensor used to read temperature.
If the calibration sheet is missing, please contact RST Instruments and a copy of the
calibration sheet can be faxed or e-mailed to you.
Units Conversion
Units Type: Choose pressure or distance using the drop-down menu.
Input Units: These are the units of the calibration constants you inputted into either the linear
conversion or polynomial conversion methods. In general, the calibration constants reported
on the calibration sheets are either in kPa/B unit or psi/B unit. In the case of strain gauges,
this could be mm/B unit.
Output Units: Select the appropriate output units from the drop-down list. The conversion will
be done automatically resulting in desired units displayed in Monitor tab and recorded in
downloaded file data.
Output Offset: This is a user defined offset value. Under certain circumstances, the user may
wish to enter in the elevation of the pressure transducer. In this way the reported pressure
will be correlated to a reference elevation (i.e. above sea level).
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Battery
Displays the past battery voltage recorded when sample was taken, current battery voltage
and the estimated battery life. To ensure uninterrupted operation, replace batteries when
estimated battery life is getting low.
Note
Battery past value depends on recorded data availability and firmware version installed.
Refer to Section 9.4 for battery replacement instructions. Multichannel logger uses special
long-life lithium battery; contact RST for replacement part.
DT2011 uses two AA alkaline batteries. See Section 9.4.2 for Single Channel logger battery
information.
Mode
The RST DT Logger Host software connects to either the RST USB Dataloggers or RST
RS232 Datalogger. Select the device you wish to access and press Connect button.
Collect Data
If the datalogger has already been configured to collect data at a specified interval, the
Collect Data button can be pressed. The program will download the data (a progress bar will
be displayed) and automatically write it to a *.csv file in the
\My Documents\Multichannel\ directory. Please see section 7 for the *.csv file format.
X
Note
When pressing the Collect Data button, after the data download completes, the program
will give a choice to keep or erase the data currently contained in the datalogger. If the
datalogger memory is not erased, the next time the data is collected (and no parameters
have been changed) it will download the current readings and all of the previous data to a
*.csv file.
The current memory can also be erased by pressing the Apply Settings in the Logging
tab or Apply in Sensors tab. The program will prompt you to confirm the erasing of data
from its memory.
RST Logo
Press the RST Logo button to display DT Logger Host version and copyright information.
Figure 31: 4 to 20mA Logger File Figure 32: 4 to 20mA Logger File
Listing Screen View Screen
By selecting desired filename and pressing View File, the contents of the data file are
displayed in the table. The status bar at the top of the screen shows the total number of
recordings and the current line number. The sample screen is shown on Figure 32. X
Note
Data View displays major datalogger settings and all saved data records. Use text file
viewer or spread sheet program (ex. MS Excel™) to see the entire file.
5.2.3 MONITOR
Selecting the monitor tab sets the datalogger into monitor mode (Figure 33). By default, the
screen reports in mA of the detected current.
If successfully connected to the datalogger, the sensor reading is updated approximately
once per two seconds. Dot indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Clicking the
check boxes changes the display to Engineering Units.
Display Format
Click on F button to customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or
switch to scientific display.
Note
Engineering Units are only available when sensor calibration data and conversion method
is set in Sensors page. Please see section 5.2.6 for the instructions on entering calibration
X
data.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
Sensor Reading fields.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
5.2.4 GRAPH
The graph button invokes the datalogger graphical monitor for selected sensor. Recent
monitor readings are displayed then in a Sensor Reading vs. Time graph (Figure 34). If
successfully connected, the graphical monitor is updated approximately once every two
seconds. Initially, the graphical screen needs few seconds to auto calculate axis ranges.
The real time sensor reading is displayed below the graph window. Manual “Scale” slider bar
is provided for fine tuning of graph vertical scale.
Note
The Graph screen will be refreshed when engineering units are changed or relevant
settings are changed.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
sensor reading area.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
The “Scale” slider is disabled when manual scale settings are used in Graphical Monitor
Options.
The “Settings” button launches the Graphical Monitor Options dialog (Figure 35), which
allows the user to manipulate the graph. Options include the ability to display Engineering
Units, set minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), and set the time range of
monitor data points displayed (x-axis, range between 1 minute and 2 hours).
To manually adjust the minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), the “Auto”
checkboxes need to be cleared.
5.2.5 LOGGING
The Logging tab contains three main components: Interval, Logger Options and Clock
Options (Figure 36).
Interval
This section is used to set the logging interval. Fixed interval and Multi interval options are
available. The fixed logging interval can be invoked by choosing the “Fixed” radio button and
set within the main setup tab. Arrow buttons allow the user to scroll up or down pre-set
values.
To setup the logger with multiple intervals, select the Multi (Advanced) radio button. Clicking
the Advanced button launches the Multi Interval Table dialog (Figure 37), where up to 12
custom, multiple intervals can be applied.
Note
Each interval MUST have an iteration except the last iteration which must be set to zero.
This tells the program that the logger will continue at the last iteration rate.
The memory capacity depends on logger hardware. Multichannel logger data recording
capability ranges from up to 303,030 records with 2 sensors connected and 106,470 records
in 10 sensor configuration. Single Channel Loggers can hold up to a maximum of 32,000
iterations for all intervals. The dialog features an Interval Fill Time field, which allows the
user to see the exact time, relative to the start time of the interval, the interval iterations will
finish. To update both the Interval Fill Time and Total Iterations field, click the “Update”
button. To save changes, click the “Save” button.
Logger Options
If a custom start time is applied, i.e. for some time in the future, the Status will read Log
Pending until that interval is reached.
Wrap on Mem Full (Overwrite Data): When the datalogger memory becomes full, it will
overwrite itself.
Stop on Mem Full: Datalogger stops collecting data when it reaches its memory storage
limit.
Clock Options
Allows the user to set the date and time of the datalogger. Checking the Auto Sync Time
checkbox will update datalogger internal clock each time Apply Settings button is pressed.
Options
The Options button displays pull down menu with Logger and RSTAR entries.
Logger:
Allows changing several advanced settings, the exact view depends on the type of the
connected datalogger.
RSTAR:
RSTAR Array Radio Series system configuration settings. For further information on RSTAR
settings, see Section 8.
Note
During logging settings upload, all existing logger data will be erased. Ensure to download
data prior to changing logging settings. Sensor configuration will not be affected.
Advanced Settings
The DT Logger Host software includes special features for advanced troubleshooting and
data retrieval. They are to be used with assistance of RST Instruments technical staff in case
of corrupted data.
5.2.6 SENSORS
The DT Logger Host Software Sensors tab will display one of two types of sensor
configuration screens, depending on sensor type. The following buttons are common to all
sensor configuration screens:
Add Sensor
Select New Copy to add copy of currently viewed sensor configuration screen.
Delete
Deletes currently displayed sensor configuration.
| button
Use this button to remove all sensors except the first two.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu.
Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
Customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or switch to scientific
display.
Verify
Once sensor configuration is saved and sensors connected, click on Verify to detect and
verify current setup. Each connection is tested and results displayed.
The following parameters are shown:
• Sensor label
• Pre-configured (Expected) sensor type
• Detected sensor type
• Measured sensor resistance in Ohms
When detected sensor parameters appear correct, background color turns green, otherwise
background color turns red to indicate error.
The sample screen is shown on Figure 39.
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Temperature Correction
When the Enable Temperature Correction box is checked, the software will apply a
temperature correction to the data. This requires the user to enter in the temperature
correction factor and an initial temperature which is found on the calibration sheet for that
particular instrument. Then select thermistor sensor used to read temperature.
If the calibration sheet is missing, please contact RST Instruments and a copy of the
calibration sheet can be faxed or e-mailed to you.
Units Conversion
Units Type: Choose pressure, distance, force, strain, VW temp, incline or custom units using
the drop-down menu.
Input Units: These are the units of the calibration constants you inputted into either the
coefficient or range conversion methods.
Output Units: Select the appropriate output units from the drop-down list. The conversion will
be done automatically resulting in desired units displayed in Monitor tab and recorded in
downloaded file data.
Output Offset: This is a user defined offset value.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu. Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
This option allows the user to customize monitor display settings (Figure 41). The user is
given the option to alter the precision or switch to scientific display.
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Battery
Displays the past battery voltage recorded when sample was taken, current battery voltage
and the estimated battery life. To ensure uninterrupted operation, replace batteries when
estimated battery life is getting low.
Note
Battery past value depends on recorded data availability and firmware version installed.
Refer to Section 9.4 for Tilt Logger battery replacement instructions. The Tilt Logger uses
special long-life lithium battery; contact RST for replacement part.
Mode
The RST DT Logger Host software connects to either the RST USB Dataloggers or RST
RS232 Datalogger. Select the device you wish to access and press Connect button.
Collect Data
If the datalogger has already been configured to collect data at a specified interval, the
Collect Data button can be pressed. The program will download the data (a progress bar will
be displayed) and automatically write it to a *.csv file in the
\My Documents\Multichannel\ directory. Please see section 7 for the *.csv file format.
X
Note
When pressing the Collect Data button, after the data download completes, the program
will give a choice to keep or erase the data currently contained in the datalogger. If the
datalogger memory is not erased, the next time the data is collected (and no parameters
have been changed) it will download the current readings and all of the previous data to a
*.csv file.
The current memory can also be erased by pressing the Apply Settings in the Logging
tab or Apply in Sensors tab. The program will prompt you to confirm the erasing of data
from its memory.
RST Logo
Press the RST Logo button to display DT Logger Host version and copyright information.
Figure 44: Tilt File Listing Screen Figure 45: Tilt File View Screen
By selecting desired filename and pressing View File, the contents of the data file are
displayed in the table. The status bar at the top of the screen shows the total number of
recordings and the current line number. The sample screen is shown on Figure 45.
Note
Data View displays major datalogger settings and all saved data records. Use text file
viewer or spread sheet program (ex. MS Excel™) to see the entire file.
5.3.3 MONITOR
Selecting the monitor tab sets the datalogger into monitor mode (Figure 46). By default, the
screen reports the sine of the detected inclination.
If successfully connected to the datalogger, the sensor reading is updated approximately
once per two seconds. Green indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Dot
indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Clicking the check boxes changes the
display to Engineering Units.
Display Format
Click on F button to customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or
switch to scientific display.
Note
Engineering Units are only available when sensor calibration data and conversion method
is set in Sensors page. Please see section 5.3.6 for the instructions on entering calibration
X
data.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
Sensor Reading fields.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
5.3.4 GRAPH
The graph button invokes the datalogger graphical monitor for selected sensor (Figure 47).
Recent monitor readings are displayed then in a Sensor Reading vs. Time graph. If
successfully connected, the graphical monitor is updated approximately once every two
seconds. Initially, the graphical screen needs few seconds to auto calculate axis ranges.
The real time sensor reading is displayed below the graph window. Manual “Scale” slider bar
is provided for fine tuning of graph vertical scale.
Figure 47: Tilt Graph Tab Figure 48: Tilt Graphical Monitor
Options
Note
The Graph screen will be refreshed when engineering units are changed or relevant
settings are changed.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
sensor reading area.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
The “Scale” slider is disabled when manual scale settings are used in Graphical Monitor
Options.
The “Settings” button launches the Graphical Monitor Options dialog (Figure 48), which
allows the user to manipulate the graph. Options include the ability to display Engineering
Units, set minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), and set the time range of
monitor data points displayed (x-axis, range between 1 minute and 2 hours).
To manually adjust the minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), the “Auto”
checkboxes need to be cleared.
5.3.5 LOGGING
The Logging tab contains three main components: Interval, Logger Options and Clock
Options (Figure 49).
Interval
This section is used to set the logging interval. Fixed interval and Multi interval options are
available. The fixed logging interval can be invoked by choosing the “Fixed” radio button,
and set within the main setup tab. Arrow buttons allow the user to scroll up or down pre-set
values.
To setup the logger with multiple intervals, select the Multi (Advanced) radio button. Clicking
the Advanced button launches the Multi Interval Table dialog (Figure 50), where up to 12
custom, multiple intervals can be applied.
Note
Each interval MUST have an iteration except the last iteration which must be set to zero.
This tells the program that the logger will continue at the last iteration rate.
The memory capacity depends on logger hardware. Multichannel logger data recording
capability ranges from up to 303,030 records with 2 sensors connected and 106,470 records
in 10 sensor configuration. Single Channel Loggers can hold up to a maximum of 32,000
iterations for all intervals. The dialog features an Interval Fill Time field, which allows the
user to see the exact time, relative to the start time of the interval, the interval iterations will
finish. To update both the Interval Fill Time and Total Iterations field, click the “Update”
button. To save changes, click the “Save” button.
Logger Options
Start Time: A check box can be selected to enable a custom start time. The hour and minute
can be entered in 24-hour format.
Note
If a custom start time is entered and this time has already past, the logger will not start
until 24 hours has passed. For example: If the current time is 13:01 and the start time is
set to 13:00, the datalogger will not start logging data until 13:00 the next day.
If a custom start time is applied, i.e. for some time in the future, the Status will read Log
Pending until that interval is reached.
Wrap on Mem Full (Overwrite Data): When the datalogger memory becomes full, it will
overwrite itself.
Stop on Mem Full: Datalogger stops collecting data when it reaches its memory storage
limit.
Clock Options
Allows the user to set the date and time of the datalogger. Checking the Auto Sync Time
checkbox will update datalogger internal clock each time Apply Settings button is pressed.
Options
The Options button displays pull down menu with Logger and RSTAR entries.
Logger:
Allows changing several advanced settings, the exact view depends on the type of the
connected datalogger.
RSTAR:
RSTAR Array Radio Series system configuration settings. For further information on RSTAR
settings, see Section 8.
Note
During logging settings upload, all existing logger data will be erased. Ensure to download
data prior to changing logging settings. Sensor configuration will not be affected.
Advanced Settings
The DT Logger Host software includes special features for advanced troubleshooting and
data retrieval. They are to be used with assistance of RST Instruments technical staff in case
of corrupted data.
5.3.6 SENSORS
Often the user may wish to report the readings directly in engineering units, rather than
sin(angle). This can be changed on the Tilt Sensors Tab (Figure 52)
Units Conversion
Units Type: Currently only distance conversion is available.
Input Units: Currently set to sin(angle).
Output Units: Select the appropriate output units from the drop-down list. The conversion will
be done automatically resulting in desired units displayed in Monitor tab and recorded in
downloaded file data.
Output Offset: This is a user defined offset value.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu.
Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
This is used to customize monitor display settings. The option is given to alter the precision
or switch to scientific display (Figure 53).
Copy to (Biaxial loggers only)
When adding subsequent sensors with identical parameters, click Copy to A or Copy to B.
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Battery
Displays the past battery voltage recorded when sample was taken, current battery voltage
and the estimated battery life. To ensure uninterrupted operation, replace batteries when
estimated battery life is getting low.
Note
Battery past value depends on recorded data availability and firmware version installed
Refer to Section 9.4 for battery replacement instructions. The DT-BUS Logger uses special
long-life lithium battery; contact RST for replacement part.
Mode
The RST DT Logger Host software connects to either the RST USB Dataloggers or RST
RS232 Datalogger. Select the device you wish to access and press Connect button.
Collect Data
If the datalogger has already been configured to collect data at a specified interval, the
Collect Data button can be pressed. The program will download the data (a progress bar will
be displayed) and automatically write it to a *.csv file in the
\My Documents\Multichannel\ directory. Please see section 7 for the *.csv file format.
X
Note
When pressing the Collect Data button, after the data download completes, the program
will give a choice to keep or erase the data currently contained in the datalogger. If the
datalogger memory is not erased, the next time the data is collected (and no parameters
have been changed) it will download the current readings and all of the previous data to a
*.csv file.
The current memory can also be erased by pressing the Apply Settings in the Logging
tab or Apply in Sensors tab. The program will prompt you to confirm the erasing of data
from its memory.
RST Logo
Press the RST Logo button to display DT Logger Host version and copyright information.
Figure 55: DT-BUS File Listing Figure 56: DT-BUS File View
Screen Screen
By selecting desired filename and pressing View File, the contents of the data file are
displayed in the table. The status bar at the top of the screen shows the total number of
recordings and the current line number. The sample screen is shown on Figure 56.
Note
Data View displays major datalogger settings and all saved data records. Use text file
viewer or spread sheet program (ex. MS Excel™) to see the entire file.
5.4.3 MONITOR
Selecting the monitor tab sets the datalogger into monitor mode (Figure 57). By default, the
screen reports the sine of the detected inclination.
If successfully connected to the datalogger, the sensor reading is updated approximately
once per two seconds. Green indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Dot
indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Clicking the check boxes changes the
display to Engineering Units.
Display Format
Click on F button to customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or
switch to scientific display.
Note
Engineering Units are only available when sensor calibration data and conversion method
is set in Sensors page. Please see section 5.3.6 for the instructions on entering calibration
X
data.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
Sensor Reading fields.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
5.4.4 GRAPH
The graph button invokes the datalogger graphical monitor for selected sensor (Figure 58).
Recent monitor readings are displayed then in a Sensor Reading vs. Time graph. If
successfully connected, the graphical monitor is updated approximately once every two
seconds. Initially, the graphical screen needs few seconds to auto calculate axis ranges.
The real time sensor reading is displayed below the graph window. Manual “Scale” slider bar
is provided for fine tuning of graph vertical scale.
Note
The Graph screen will be refreshed when engineering units are changed or relevant
settings are changed.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
sensor reading area.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
The “Scale” slider is disabled when manual scale settings are used in Graphical Monitor
Options.
The “Settings” button launches the Graphical Monitor Options dialog (Figure 59), which
allows the user to manipulate the graph. Options include the ability to display Engineering
Units, set minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), and set the time range of
monitor data points displayed (x-axis, range between 1 minute and 2 hours).
To manually adjust the minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), the “Auto”
checkboxes need to be cleared.
5.4.5 LOGGING
The Logging tab contains three main components: Interval, Logger Options and Clock
Options (Figure 60).
Interval
This section is used to set the logging interval. Fixed interval and Multi interval options are
available. The fixed logging interval can be invoked by choosing the “Fixed” radio button,
and set within the main setup tab. Arrow buttons allow the user to scroll up or down pre-set
values.
To setup the logger with multiple intervals, select the Multi (Advanced) radio button. Clicking
the Advanced button launches the Multi Interval Table dialog (Figure 61), where up to 12
custom, multiple intervals can be applied.
The hour, minute, second and number of iterations per interval must be specified.
Note
Each interval MUST have an iteration except the last iteration which must be set to zero.
This tells the program that the logger will continue at the last iteration rate.
The memory capacity depends on logger hardware. Multichannel logger data recording
capability ranges from up to 303,030 records with 2 sensors connected and 106,470 records
in 10 sensor configuration. Single Channel Loggers can hold up to a maximum of 32,000
iterations for all intervals. The dialog features an Interval Fill Time field, which allows the
user to see the exact time, relative to the start time of the interval, the interval iterations will
finish. To update both the Interval Fill Time and Total Iterations field, click the “Update”
button. To save changes, click the “Save” button.
Logger Options
Start Time: A check box can be selected to enable a custom start time. The hour and minute
can be entered in 24-hour format.
Note
If a custom start time is entered and this time has already past, the logger will not start
until 24 hours has passed. For example: If the current time is 13:01 and the start time is
set to 13:00, the datalogger will not start logging data until 13:00 the next day.
If a custom start time is applied, i.e. for some time in the future, the Status will read Log
Pending until that interval is reached.
Wrap on Mem Full (Overwrite Data): When the datalogger memory becomes full, it will
overwrite itself.
Stop on Mem Full: Datalogger stops collecting data when it reaches its memory storage
limit.
Clock Options
Allows the user to set the date and time of the datalogger. Checking the Auto Sync Time
checkbox will update datalogger internal clock each time Apply Settings button is pressed.
Options
The Options button displays pull down menu with Logger and RSTAR entries.
Logger:
Allows changing several advanced settings, the exact view depends on the type of the
connected datalogger.
RSTAR:
RSTAR Array Radio Series system configuration settings. For further information on RSTAR
settings, see Section 8.
Note
During logging settings upload, all existing logger data will be erased. Ensure to download
data prior to changing logging settings. Sensor configuration will not be affected.
Advanced Settings
The DT Logger Host software includes special features for advanced troubleshooting and
data retrieval. They are to be used with assistance of RST Instruments technical staff in case
of corrupted data.
5.4.6 SENSORS
Often the user may wish to report the readings directly in engineering units, rather than
sin(angle). This can be changed on the Sensors Tab (Figure 63).
Units Conversion
Units Type: Currently only distance conversion is available.
Input Units: Currently set to sin(angle).
Output Units: Select the appropriate output units from the drop-down list. The conversion will
be done automatically resulting in desired units displayed in Monitor tab and recorded in
downloaded file data.
Output Offset: This is a user defined offset value.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu.
Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
This allows the user to customize monitor display settings (Figure 64). The option is given to
alter the precision or switch to scientific display.
Copy to (Biaxial loggers only)
When adding subsequent sensors with identical parameters, click Copy to A or Copy to B.
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
Battery
Displays the past battery voltage recorded when sample was taken, current battery voltage
and the estimated battery life. To ensure uninterrupted operation, replace batteries when
estimated battery life is getting low.
Note
Battery past value depends on recorded data availability and firmware version installed.
Refer to Section 9.4 for Strain Gauge Logger battery replacement instructions. Strain Gauge
Loggers use special long-life lithium battery; contact RST for replacement part.
Mode
The RST DT Logger Host software connects to either the RST USB Dataloggers or RST
RS232 Datalogger. Select the device you wish to access and press Connect button.
Collect Data
If the datalogger has already been configured to collect data at a specified interval, the
Collect Data button can be pressed. The program will download the data (a progress bar will
be displayed) and automatically write it to a *.csv file in the \My Documents\Multichannel\
directory. Please see Section 7 for the *.csv file format.
X
Note
When pressing the Collect Data button, after the data download completes, the program
will give a choice to keep or erase the data currently contained in the datalogger. If the
datalogger memory is not erased, the next time the data is collected (and no parameters
have been changed) it will download the current readings and all of the previous data to a
*.csv file.
The current memory can also be erased by pressing the Apply Settings in the Logging
tab or Apply in Sensors tab. The program will prompt you to confirm the erasing of data
from its memory.
RST Logo
Press the RST Logo button to display DT Logger Host version and copyright information.
Figure 66: Strain Gauge Logger Figure 67: Strain Gauge Logger
File Listing Screen File View Screen
By selecting desired filename and pressing View File, the contents of the data file are
displayed in the table. The status bar at the top of the screen shows the total number of
recordings and the current line number. The sample screen is shown in Figure 67.
Note
Data View displays major datalogger settings and all saved data records. Use text file
viewer or spread sheet program (ex. MS Excel™) to see the entire file.
5.5.3 MONITOR
Selecting the monitor tab sets the datalogger into monitor mode (Figure 68). By default, the
screen reports the sine of the detected inclination.
If successfully connected to the datalogger, the sensor reading is updated approximately
once per two seconds. Green indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Dot
indicator flashes each time a sensor data is updated. Clicking the check boxes changes the
display to Engineering Units.
Display Format
Click on F button to customize monitor display settings. Option is given to alter precision or
switch to scientific display.
Note
Engineering Units are only available when sensor calibration data and conversion method
is set in Sensors page. Please see section 5.3.6 for the instructions on entering calibration
X
data.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
Sensor Reading fields.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
5.5.4 GRAPH
The graph button invokes the datalogger graphical monitor for selected sensor (Figure 69).
Recent monitor readings are displayed then in a Sensor Reading vs. Time graph. If
successfully connected, the graphical monitor is updated approximately once every two
seconds. Initially, the graphical screen needs few seconds to auto calculate axis ranges.
The real time sensor reading is displayed below the graph window. Manual “Scale” slider bar
is provided for fine tuning of graph vertical scale.
Figure 69: Strain Gauge Logger Figure 70: Strain Gauge Logger
Graph Tab Graphical Monitor Options
Note
The Graph screen will be refreshed when engineering units are changed or relevant
settings are changed.
Until communication is established with the datalogger, the program will display ”----“ in
sensor reading area.
When Sensor Reading is outside of the valid range, “RANGE_ERR” will be displayed.
The “Scale” slider is disabled when manual scale settings are used in Graphical Monitor
Options.
The “Settings” button launches the Graphical Monitor Options dialog (Figure 70), which
allows the user to manipulate the graph. Options include the ability to display Engineering
Units, set minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), and set the time range of
monitor data points displayed (x-axis, range between 1 minute and 2 hours).
To manually adjust the minimum and maximum Sensor Reading ranges (y-axis), the “Auto”
checkboxes need to be cleared.
5.5.5 LOGGING
The Logging tab contains three main components: Interval, Logger Options and Clock
Options (Figure 71).
Interval
This section is used to set the logging interval. Fixed interval and Multi interval options are
available. The fixed logging interval can be invoked by choosing the “Fixed” radio button,
and set within the main setup tab. Arrow buttons allow the user to scroll up or down pre-set
values.
To setup the logger with multiple intervals, select the Multi (Advanced) radio button. Clicking
the Advanced button launches the Multi Interval Table dialog (Figure 72), where up to 12
custom, multiple intervals can be applied.
Note
Each interval MUST have an iteration except the last iteration which must be set to zero.
This tells the program that the logger will continue at the last iteration rate.
The memory capacity depends on logger hardware. Multichannel logger data recording
capability ranges from up to 303,030 records with 2 sensors connected and 106,470 records
in 10 sensor configuration. Single Channel Loggers can hold up to a maximum of 32,000
iterations for all intervals. The dialog features an Interval Fill Time field, which allows the
user to see the exact time, relative to the start time of the interval, the interval iterations will
finish. To update both the Interval Fill Time and Total Iterations field, click the “Update”
button. To save changes, click the “Save” button.
Logger Options
Start Time: A check box can be selected to enable a custom start time. The hour and minute
can be entered in 24-hour format.
Note
If a custom start time is entered and this time has already past, the logger will not start
until 24 hours has passed. For example: If the current time is 13:01 and the start time is
set to 13:00, the datalogger will not start logging data until 13:00 the next day.
If a custom start time is applied, i.e. for some time in the future, the Status will read Log
Pending until that interval is reached.
Wrap on Mem Full (Overwrite Data): When the datalogger memory becomes full, it will
overwrite itself.
Stop on Mem Full: Datalogger stops collecting data when it reaches its memory storage
limit.
Clock Options
Allows the user to set the date and time of the datalogger. Checking the Auto Sync Time
checkbox will update datalogger internal clock each time Apply Settings button is pressed.
Options
The Options button displays pull down menu with Logger and RSTAR entries.
Logger:
Allows changing several advanced settings, the exact view depends on the type of the
connected datalogger.
RSTAR:
RSTAR Array Radio Series system configuration settings. For further information on RSTAR
settings, see Section 8.
Note
During logging settings upload, all existing logger data will be erased. Ensure to download
data prior to changing logging settings. Sensor configuration will not be affected.
Advanced Settings
The DT Logger Host software includes special features for advanced troubleshooting and
data retrieval. They are to be used with assistance of RST Instruments technical staff in case
of corrupted data.
5.5.6 SENSORS
Often the user may wish to report the readings directly in engineering units, rather than
sin(angle). This can be changed on the Sensors Tab (Figure 74).
Units Conversion
Units Type: Choose pressure, distance, force, strain or custom units using the drop-down
menu.
Input Units: These are the units of the calibration constants you inputted into either the
coefficient or range conversion methods.
Output Units: Select the appropriate output units from the drop-down list. The conversion will
be done automatically resulting in desired units displayed in Monitor tab and recorded in
downloaded file data.
Output Offset: This is a user defined offset value.
File
This button will activate sensor configuration file menu.
Select Save to File for later retrieval.
Select Load from File to load previously saved sensor settings.
Display Format
The allows the user to customize monitor display settings. The option is given to alter the
precision or switch to scientific display (Figure 75).
Note
Before sensor settings upload, the program will give a choice to keep or erase the data
currently contained in the datalogger. If the datalogger memory is not erased, the next
time the data is collected, it will download the current readings and all of the previous data
to a *.csv file. Current sensor calibration settings will be applied to calculate engineering
values from all recorded data.
5.6 EXIT
Pressing the Exit tab will close the DT Logger Host program.
Note
Microsoft’s Mobile Device Center™ software can be freely downloaded from Microsoft’s
website. Choose 32-bit or 64-bit version depending on Windows 7™ operating system.
After Mobile Device Center™ is installed, connect the Ultra-Rugged Field PC to desktop or
laptop computer using USB cable provided with the DT Logger host System. Windows 7™
should detect new connection and display following dialog box.
In order to synchronize the data in real-time between the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2 and the
desktop PC, you must click on Set up your device. If you do not wish to synchronize data
and simply use Windows Explorer to copy files to and from the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2, click
Connect without setting up your device. Data files can be copied from Ultra-Rugged Field
PC2 using File Management, as shown on Figure 77.
If synchronizing files, decide what type of information you would like synchronized with the
desktop computer. If you are only using the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2 for the purposes of
transferring DT Logger Host information, uncheck all the options and place a check mark
next to the Files (see Figure 78).
Important
It is extremely important that the user realizes that the synchronized folder created on the
desktop is an active link to the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2. Any changes you make in that
folder will be reflected on the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2. For example, if you delete a file in
the folder, the same file will be deleted on the Ultra-Rugged Field PC2. If the Ultra-Rugged
Field PC2 happens to be disconnected at the time, as soon as it is re-connected it will
automatically see the missing file in the folder and the file will be deleted during the
connection. It is therefore important to exercise good data management. Once the data is
synchronized to the PC, move the inclinometer files to a safe location (i.e. a network
server or hard drive).
For further instructions regarding synchronizing data between a PC and the Ultra-Rugged
Field PC2, please refer to the supplied documentation and software which comes with the
Ultra-Rugged Field PC2 (CD-ROM).
This file can then be opened directly with Microsoft Excel™ or other spreadsheet programs.
A new file will be created each time the data is collected. It is the user’s responsibility to copy
data into a single spreadsheet if desired.
Note
When sensor reading is outside of the valid range, the “99999” value will be recorded as
the Eng Units and B Units data.
Note
When sensor reading is outside of the valid range, the “99999” value will be recorded as
the Eng Units and B Units data.
Figure 83: RSTAR Equipped data loggers Figure 84: RTU Hub
Figure 85 shows a FlexDAQ enclosure with an open lid to reveal an installed RSTAR RTU Hub
(on DIN rail), datalogger, radio and power supply.
Note
RST dataloggers shipped as part of RSTAR system have all settings preconfigured. It is
strongly recommended to contact RST personnel before modifying any RSTAR settings.
Note
Wireless settings adjustments can be made using PC desktop or laptop computer.
Note
When the logger is in RSTAR enabled mode, some logger configuration parameters will
be controlled by RTU base station. Any such parameters will be inaccessible by DT
Logger Host Software (Figure 86).
The Campbell data table contains a fixed number of Campbell information columns followed by
logger info and data columns. The logger entries in the Campbell data table will consist of a fixed
number of logger information columns followed by a fixed number of logger data reading
columns.
10) RSSIB
• RSSI of data packet received at RTU from logger.
11) RxTime
• Time in ms after sample time that the logger data was received at the RTU.
12) TxRxStatus
• Status code for the previous logger data transmission and ack reception.
13) ReTxCount
• Retransmission count.
14) Status
• Logger status code.
15) Open
• Reserved for future use.
Note
The Campbell data table will always have allocated the total number logger columns per
logger type, even if the channels in the logger have not been assigned.
15) U_Type55
• Type of units selected.
• 0 = pressure, 1 = distance, 2 = force, 3 = strain, 4 = temperature, 5 = incline, 6 =
custom
16) U_Con_En55
• Units conversion enabled state.
• 0 = Disabled, 1 = Enabled
17) Spare551A
• Calibration update time.
18) Spare55B
• Calibration update date.
19) Spare55C
• Logger firmware version
20) Up_Date55
• Calibration has been updated.
• 0 = Not updated, 1 = New calibration transferred from logger.
BATTERIES
9.1 BATTERY DEFINITIONS
Two kinds of batteries are used across the DT Logger range of products: standard and
compact. They are summarized in Table 3.
Standard batteries are defined as SAFT LSH 20 D-cell batteries and can be placed directly
into the battery holder inside the logger. Standard batteries are recommended for radio-
equipped models but may be used with non-radio loggers.
Compact batteries are defined as either one SAFT LSH 14 light C-cell battery or two SAFT
LS 14500 AA batteries and require the use of the appropriate adaptor prior to placement in
the battery holder. Compact batteries are recommended for stand-alone loggers. Both
compact battery options are designed to support the same level of performance in DT
loggers and are considered equivalent.
Warning
When operating at lower than 0°C or higher than +40°C, the capacity of the lithium battery
will decrease. The Battery Life indicator on DT Logger Host may overestimate the
remaining battery life at temperatures outside this range.
Note
Batteries should be replaced when the Battery Life estimates there is less than 20%
remaining.
Data Logger Configuration Reading Interval Radio Compact battery Standard battery
DTL201B, DTL202B 1 hour none n/a 4 years
RSTAR n/a 4 years
DT Link n/a 2.5 years
10 minutes none n/a 1 year
RSTAR n/a 1 year
DT Link n/a 1 year
1 minute none n/a 1.5 months
RSTAR n/a 1 month
DT Link n/a 1.5 months
DT4205* 1 hour none n/a 3.6 years
*Estimations heavily depend on RSTAR n/a 3.4 years
the number of sensors and the DT Link n/a 2.4 years
conditions under which the logger 10 minutes none n/a 7 months
operates. These calculations are RSTAR n/a 7 months
based on 10 sensors (5 4-20 mA DT Link n/a 7 months
sensors and 5 thermistors) with a 1 minute none n/a 23 days
4-20 mA sensor reading time of 4 RSTAR n/a 21 days
seconds and sensor output DT Link n/a 23 days
current of 12mA at 24°C
DT2306, 18 potentiometers Same performance as DT2055, or better
DT2350, 2 load cells Same performance as DT2055, or better
Given that battery life is dependent on a number of different variables, battery life can vary
from the values shown in Table 4. It is important to note that:
• This table is intended as a guideline. Battery life is best monitored via DT Logger
Host (see Section 9.2).
• The values in Table 4 are interpolations based on laboratory measurements.
• Standard batteries are recommended for loggers equipped with RSTAR and DT
Link.
• Compact batteries should be used for non-radio loggers only.
• The best battery performance will be observed in a typical environment, with
temperatures between 0°C and +40°C. Loggers operating outside of this range will
experience reduced battery capacity and decreased battery life.
Very Important
Prior to beginning the replacement procedure, ensure that the correct batteries are being
used. Standard batteries are highly recommended with wireless (i.e. RSTAR and DT Link)
loggers. Compact batteries will not work with wireless loggers.
1. Connect to the data logger via the USB cable and download the data.
2. Disconnect the logger from the computer and remove the top cover (4 Phillips
screws).
3. Lift the battery from the negative terminal and remove the battery from the carrier.
Replace it with a new one, maintaining the correct polarity.
Note
Data loggers powered by compact batteries will house batteries in an adapter, which sites
in the battery carrier. Remove the adapter before removing the batteries. Place new
batteries into the adapter, then place the adapter into the carrier in the logger.
Very Important
When replacing the batteries, it is important to connect to the data logger and re-apply the
data logger logging settings. This re-initializes the data logger and ensures that the time
settings are correct. Failure to do this could result in improper time stamps after the
batteries are replaced.
The single channel VW Datalogger uses ‘AA’ alkaline batteries which are readily available. If
the unit is being used in a cold environment, RST also offers Lithium-Ion ‘AA’ batteries. The
following steps outline the procedure to change the batteries:
1. Connect to the data logger via the COM or USB cable and download the data.
2. Disconnect from the computer and remove the top cover (4 Phillips screws).
3. Remove the batteries from the carrier and replace with new ones, maintaining the
correct polarity.
4. Replace the lid.
5. Connect to the PC again and navigate to the Logging screen. Verify that the
settings are correct and press the Apply Settings button. You must press Apply
Settings to reset the data logger regardless of whether any parameters have been
changed.
TROUBLESHOOTING
10.1 CONNECTION PROBLEMS
Upon launching, DT Logger, the software will try to connect to the Data logger using current
communication settings. Once connected, the Status screen should display logger
information.
Note
If a pop-up dialog shows up asking for a driver name, type in ftdi_ser.dll in full.
The connection status is displayed on status tab. If the connection fails (status screen shows
no status data), take note of the message displayed, then find the corresponding description
in Table 5.
1. Port not open: The communication port is being used by some other application.
Solution: Close other windows applications that might be using serial port assigned
to DT Logger. Ensure that USB is selected when connecting DT2011B, DT2055,
DT2055B, DT2040, DT4205, DT5660 and DT6660 loggers.
When connecting to DT2011, RS232 Mode must be selected.
2. Connecting to the logger message continuously displayed.
Solution: Verify that the serial communication cable is connected and connections
are tight.
3. State Errors, Reading Errors, Memory Read Errors.
Solution: Check the battery status on the Status screen on DT Logger Host; replace
if necessary. Check cable for damage. Replace communication cable if in doubt.
SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Table 6 lists the specifications for the Field PC2:
Ultra-Rugged Field PC2
Water Proof IP68
Rugged Case 1.5 m or 5' drops onto concrete
Operating Temperature Optimized for excellent performance in cold temperatures
Operating temperature: –22F to 140F (–30C to 60C)
Note: Bluetooth® wireless technology is rated to –4F (–20C)
Processor 1.0GHz ARM Cortex A8 i.MX53 processor
Memory 512 MB DDR2 RAM
Internal Flash Disk 8 GB
Operating System and Software Microsoft® Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3
Microsoft Office Mobile 2010* (Word Mobile, Excel
Mobile, PowerPoint Mobile, Outlook Mobile)
Multiple languages (English, French, Spanish, German,
Portuguese)
Adobe Reader® LE
Battery Intelligent Li-Ion battery 3.7VDC @ 10600mAh,38.7Whr
Operates for up to 20 hours on one charge
Charges in 2 to 4 hours
Battery easily changeable in field
Wireless Connectivity Options Bluetooth® wireless technology, 2.1 +EDR, Class
1.5, range greater than 100 feet (30m)
Wi-Fi® 802.11b/g/n with extended range
Certifications and Standards FCC Class B
CE Marking (applicable EMC, R&TTE, and
LVD directives)
Industry Canada
EN60950 Safety
CONTACT US
For sales information contact: [email protected]
H
Head Office:
11545 Kingston St
Maple Ridge, BC
Canada V2X 0Z5
Telephone: 604-540-1100
Facsimile: 604-540-1005
Toll Free: 1-800-665-5599
Website: www.rstinstruments.com