Elster Solutions HHI02 Hand Held Interrogator User Manual UserGuide 52808T510 xx TIVRTCE

Elster Solutions, LLC Hand Held Interrogator UserGuide 52808T510 xx TIVRTCE

Users Manual

Copyright © 2001- 2006 AMCO Automated Systems All Rights reserved UUUSSSEEERRR GGGUUUIIIDDDEEE TRACE® TTrraaccee IInntteerrrrooggaattoorr VVRRTT ((TTII VVRRTT)) ffoorr WWiinnddoowwss CCEE
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 2 Introduction......................................................5 FCC Compliance ....................................................................... 5 System Requirements .....................................6 Hardware Requirements........................................................... 6 Software Requirements ............................................................ 6 Warnings.................................................................................... 6 TI VRT CE Operation................................................................. 6 Conventions .....................................................7 <Esc> ......................................................................................... 7 <Enter>....................................................................................... 7 <Up Arrow>, <Down Arrow>..................................................... 7 <Tab> ......................................................................................... 7 Message Box <Yes> <NO> ....................................................... 7 Stylus ......................................................................................... 7 TIV Screens ......................................................8 Splash screen............................................................................ 8 Main............................................................................................ 8 Route Selection......................................................................... 9 Communications....................................................................... 9 Data Entry................................................................................ 10 Exit TI VRT CE ......................................................................... 11 Account Navigation and Data Entry.............11 Navigation................................................................................ 11 <Esc>............................................................................................12 <Enter>.........................................................................................12 <Up Arrow>, <Down Arrow>.......................................................12 Jumps ...................................................................................... 12 Jump to Account Details ............................................................13 Jump to Beginning of Current Route.........................................13 Jump to End of Current Route ...................................................13 Jump to Specified Sequence Number .......................................13 Jump to the Next Route ..............................................................13 Jump to the Previous Route.......................................................13
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 3 Jump to Next Unread Account in the Current Route................13 Searches.................................................................................. 14 To perform a search....................................................................14 Information Displays............................................................... 15 Help / Available Commands Display..........................................15 Route Selection Display..............................................................15 Route Summary Display .............................................................16 Configuration Display .................................................................17 Updating Configuration of Handheld.........................................17 Account Details Display..............................................................18 Instruction Code Display ............................................................19 Location Code Display................................................................20 Messages Display........................................................................20 Error Log Display ........................................................................21 Trouble Code Display..................................................................21 Appointments ..............................................................................22 Data Entry Operations ............................................................ 23 Default Read of An Unread Account..........................................24 Manual Index Read......................................................................24 Clear Index Read .........................................................................25 Force Unattempted Account ......................................................25 Adding a Trouble Code...............................................................25 Adding / Editing a Text Message................................................26 Setting the Re-sequence Flag ....................................................27 Single RF Index Read..................................................................28 Multiple Parameter RF Read.......................................................29 Single History / TOU RF Read ....................................................32 General Index RF Read ...............................................................32 VersaProbe.............................................................................. 33 Jump to VersaProbe connection................................................33 VersaProbe Communication Modes..........................................33 Data Entry with VersaProbe .......................................................36 Read with VersaProbe.................................................................36 Transponder Installation ........................................................ 38 Change Out..................................................................................38 Data Entry with Installation ........................................................41 Using the Scanner.......................................................................44 Using the GPS .............................................................................44 Verification .............................................................................. 46 Data Entry with Verification........................................................46 Read with Transponder Verification ..........................................46
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 4 TI VRT CE Communication with Route Manager VRT..................................................50 Establishing communications................................................ 50 Uploading Routes from RM VRT to TI VRT (CE) ................... 52 Downloading data From TI VRT (CE) to RM VRT .................. 53 Removing Route From TI VRT (CE) ....................................... 53 Updating Handheld files ......................................................... 53 Hot Keys..........................................................55 Configuration .................................................56 General..................................................................................... 56 VersaProbe.............................................................................. 57 Scanner & GPS........................................................................ 58 Troubleshooting.............................................59
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 5 Introduction Copyright © 2001- 2006 AMCO Automated Systems. All Rights Reserved The contents of this document are the property of AMCO Automated Systems and are copyrighted. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. For additional information regarding this document, please contact: Customer Service AMCO Automated Systems 208 South Rogers Lane Raleigh, NC 27610 Phone: 800-786-2215 http://www.amcoas.com The information contained herein has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate; however, no responsibility is assumed for inaccuracies. AMCO Automated Systems reserves the right to make changes without prior notice. This document is not covered by any warranty either expressed or implied. Any correction, comments or additions to the contents of this document should be directed to AMCO Automated Systems at the above address. TRACE, Universal RF Interface (RF), Mini Mobile Interrogator (MMI) and ReadIt are also trademarks of AMCO Automated Systems. All rights reserved. MS-DOS, MS Windows, MS Windows CE and IBM are registered trademarks of their respective owners. FCC Compliance The VRT HAND HELD Interrogator (HHI) has been type accepted by the Federal Communications Commission under Part 90. Transmitter licensing is required by the FCC. The VRT HAND HELD Interrogator (HHI) transmitter is currently licensed by the FCC to operate at 451.355 MHz. FCC ID’s G8JHHI01, G8JHHI02. Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by AMCO Automated Systems could void the user's authority to operate this equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. The TRACE transponder is governed by FCC Part 15 and requires no licensing.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 6 System Requirements Hardware Requirements DAP 5240 or 5240X with AMCOAS integrated RF card Software Requirements Windows CE 4.20 Route Manager VRT 2.0 or later TI VRT CE 1.1 or later Warnings Do not attempt to modify or edit any of the subsidiary tables or files outside of the TI VRT (CE) / RM VRT environment without prior authorization by AMCO Automated Systems technical service personnel. Unauthorized manipulation of these files may void your software service agreements. Uploading from Route Manager VRT (RM VRT) will overwrite Route/Account information on the Hand Held. It is the User’s responsibility to download any data prior to uploading. RF EXPOSURE The antenna used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 24 cm from all persons, and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. TI VRT CE Operation The screen shots shown in various illustrations may vary slightly from your handheld’s display.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 7 Conventions All user interactions are via the handheld’s keyboard. TI VRT CE responds to the keystrokes independent of platform. All letters are assumed to be upper case. Function keys F1 – F4 are also used. <Esc> o Cancels operations o Exits screens <Enter> o In menus/list boxes selects item o In editable field submits entry o When on an unread rf account, triggers an rf read. o With Automove on and on a completed account, and moves to next Account. o In Details list box (History & TOU) initiates single interrogation of highlighted item <Up Arrow>, <Down Arrow> These keys are used to navigate between accounts within the current Route. When either the first or last account is reached an audible warning will sound and the display will remain on the current account. <Tab> ➜❙ Key is used to navigate between fields within the current screen (messages, search, etc.). Message Box <Yes> <NO> The response to the message box can be: o Touching the button <Yes> or <No> with stylus o Clicking letter “Y” or “N” on the keyboard o Moving to the desired button by using left/right arrow keys and pressing Enter when the button is highlighted. Stylus In most cases it’s possible instead of moving to a specific location and pressing ENTER just to touch it with a stylus.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 8 TIV Screens Splash screen Main
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 9 The main screen allows the selection of the following modes: o Route Selection / Data Entry o Communication (between RMVRT and device) Route Selection If Route Selection is selected, the list of routes loaded in the device is displayed along with the Route type. To view/update Account information for the chosen route highlight the route and press “Enter” or touch the chosen route line on the screen. Communications The Communications mode is used to exchange data files and other information with Route Manager VRT. This selection, opens the specified communications port, displays the communications screen and initiates polling for incoming messages from RM VRT.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 10 Data Entry Rt: Route ID Xp: Transponder Serial Number TT: Transponder Type Mn: Meter Number LC: Location Code MT: Meter Type IC: Instruction Code Rd: Index Read  : Direction of Data Entry TC: Trouble Code St: Account Status D:0-35 Number of VRT details (requests) available AM-off/on AutoMove enabled Msg-2 There are 2 messages in the alarm category. AC / BT : shows the type of power: AC from cradle or BT from battery Hi100% : shows that the battery is charged at 100%
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 11 Exit TI VRT CE Pressing the <ESC> in the Main Menu will pop up a confirmation box. Use the <TAB>, <Left Arrow>, or <Right Arrow> keys to select the response. • Touch “YES” button or click the “Y” key or click the <Enter> key when the button is highlighted to accept the selection. • Touch <No> button or click the “N” key or click the <Enter> key when the button is highlighted to Cancel. Account Navigation and Data Entry Navigation All user interactions are via the handheld’s keyboard or the Touch Screen using a stylus. TI VRT (CE) responds to the keystrokes independent of platform. All letters are assumed to be upper case. Function keys F1 – F4 are also used.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 12 <Esc> o Cancels operations. o Exits screens. <Enter> o In menus/list boxes selects item. o In editable field submits entry. o With Automove on, submits entry and moves to next Account. o In Details list box (History & TOU) initiates single interrogation of highlighted item. o In Read box on Data Entry Screen, initiates RF interrogation of current account. <Up Arrow>, <Down Arrow> These keys are used to navigate between accounts within the current Route. When either the first or last account is reached an audible warning will sound and the display will remain on the current account. Jumps Jumps are moving from the current account in the current route to various other accounts and routes. Pressing the appropriate hot key activates jumps. The X (Cancel Jump) Hot key is used to return to the account displayed just prior to the jump except as noted.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 13 Jump to Account Details Hot Key: A This is a jump to the account details screen of a selected account on the data entry screen. X has no effect. <ESC> closes the popup. Jump to Beginning of Current Route Hot Key: B This is a jump to the first account in the current route. X Jumps to record displayed prior to the jump. If pressed at the beginning of the route the bounds beep sounds and the display remains on the current account. Jump to End of Current Route Hot Key: E This is a jump to the Last account in the Current route. X Jumps to record displayed prior to the jump. If pressed at the end of the route the bounds beep sounds. Jump to Specified Sequence Number Hot Key: J This is a jump to a specified sequence number in the current route. After pressing the J hot key an entry window will pop up. Type the sequence number in the box and press the <ENTER> key. X Jumps to record displayed prior to the jump. Jump to the Next Route Hot Key: N This is a jump to next route. X has no effect. If pressed on the Last route the bounds beep sounds and the display remains on the current account. Jump to the Previous Route Hot Key: P This is a jump to the first account in the previous route. X has no effect. If pressed on the first route the bounds beep sounds and the display remains on the current account. Jump to Next Unread Account in the Current Route Hot Key: U
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 14This is a jump to a next account with index read –2 and trouble code 0 in the current route. X Jumps to record displayed prior to the jump. Searches Hot Key: H search menu Searches allow the user to jump to any specified account in the current Route. Currently the following searches are available: • Account number • Transponder number • Meter number • Customer Name • Customer address • Premise code • Specific trouble code • Any trouble code To perform a search • Press the H key to bring up the search type display • Select the type of search to perform using the <Up Arrow/Down Arrow> keys or stylus. • Use the <➜❙> key (Tab) or stylus to move between fields on the screen • Select whether exact match is wanted or the search performed by partially submitted information is preferred (except for search for accounts with trouble code). • Fill the field with the desired information (except for search for accounts with any trouble code). • Click Search to begin the defined search or press ENTER while Search button is being highlighted. • Searches with only 1 account returned will jump directly to that account.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 15• If there are multiple accounts satisfying the requested search then the results list will present the following information  Account Number  Address Select an item from the results list and press the <ENTER> key or click with the stylus to jump to the account. • Pressing the <ESC> key cancels the search. • Press button <Clear> to clear the search and to start over. X Jumps to record displayed prior to the jump. Note: Transponder number for exact search has to be 8 digits. Information Displays Several informational displays are available to the user from the data entry screen. Most of these take the form of a Pop-Up List Box over the Data Entry screen. As usual the <ESC> key acts as the Cancel button to exit back to Account Data Entry screen. Help / Available Commands Display Hot Key: F1 X has no effect. • <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> keys select the desired hot key from the list. • <ENTER> initiates the command as if the hot key had been pressed. • Clicking the desired selection with a stylus initiates the command. • Pressing the shortcut letter on the keyboard performs the shortcut. • <ESC> closes the popup. Route Selection Display Hot Key: F2 X has no effect • <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> keys select the desired Route from the list. • <Enter> jumps to the first account in the selected route. • <ESC> closes the popup. Note: Clicking the desired route with a stylus jumps to the first account in the selected route
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 16 Route Summary Display Hot Key: F3 X has no effect. Use <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> or stylus to move within the screen. <ESC> closes the popup.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 17Configuration Display Hot Key: F4 X has no effect. Use <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> or stylus to move within the screen. Tab moves the cursor from the Meter Reader configuration items to all the configuration items. <ESC> closes the popup. Updating Configuration of Handheld Hot Key: F4 Twice If the handheld device was previously used by another person or used for the first time, you can update the configuration to enable the handheld device to communicate with Route Manager VRT. You can also change the read direction for manual reads. Once the handheld is updated, you will be asked to confirm the changes on configuration as seen below.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 18 Account Details Display Hot Key: A <ESC> closes the popup. A is used to display the account details of a selected account on the data entry screen.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 19 Instruction Code Display Hot Key: I <ESC> closes the popup. Instruction codes are used to indicate instructions for Meter Reader. Pressing I opens the list of available Instructions codes.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 20Location Code Display Hot Key: L <ESC> closes the popup. Location codes are used to indicate Location of Meters/Transponders. Pressing L opens the list of available Location codes. Messages Display Hot Key: M <ESC> closes the popup. A 19-character message, 3 user messages of 20 characters each can be entered for each account or edited using this option. These messages can be sent from RM VRT. If “M” appears the lower Information Bar of the data entry display, the account contains one or more messages. If “!!” follow the message then one of the messages contain alarm. A free form note pad is also available here. A free form note pad is NOT account specific but is common to all accounts and all routes.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 21 It can be configured in RM VRT not to allow to edit messages. An audible alarm can be set in RM VRT if one of the messages contains alarm; if sound is disable a message box will pop up with the warning. Error Log Display Hot Key: O Use <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> or stylus to move within the screen. <ESC> closes the popup. Trouble Code Display Hot Key: T <ESC> closes the popup. Trouble codes are used to indicate problems with obtaining readings. Pressing T opens the list of available trouble codes.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 22 Appointments An appointment can be set for transponder installation, troubleshooting etc. While selecting the routes, following message will be displayed on the screen only if it has appointments set for selected route. Click on Yes button to view list of today’s installation appointments for the selected route. To view messages in details, click on Full List.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 23 Detail appointment’s message will also be displayed as an “Account Appointments” screen of particular account having appointment Data Entry Operations Index reads can be entered manually, singly by RF, as part of a multiple parameter read of Index, History and TOU.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 24History and TOU reads can be performed either singly or as part of a multiple parameter read of Index, History and TOU. Default Read of An Unread Account If the current read value is -2 and the transponder number is not blank, then pressing the <ENTER> key will trigger an RF read of the transponder. Manual Index Read Enter digits 0 - 9 and press the <ENTER> key. The direction of manually reading a meter is shown by the arrow by the reading and is dependant on the meter type. The number entered will be checked against: • The number of dials as reported in Route Manager for the account. This option can be turned off/on in RM VRT. • Upper Limit and Lower Limit for the account as reported in RM VRT. This option can be turned off/on in RM VRT. • Previous read for the account as reported in RM VRT. A Zero (0) uploaded for the value to check turns this option off. If the entered index read fails the verification above the message will pop up asking if it needs to be recorded or cancelled. Choose the option by selecting “OK” to record or “X” to cancel.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 25 If the Automove option is ON, the display will show the next account in the route. If the account is the last one in the current route an audible alert will sound. Clear Index Read Hot Key: C X has no effect After pressing the “C” key the reading is cleared and the cursor is positioned in the index read field waiting for the entry to overwrite the previous reading. Force Unattempted Account Hot Key: F X has no effect If the account had manual reading, then after pressing the “F” key the message box pops up verifying if it’s really desired to reset account. Selecting “Yes” clears the reading and trouble code and sets the account status to Unattempted. Selecting “No” has no affect on the account. Adding a Trouble Code Hot Key: T X has no effect Trouble codes are used to indicate problems with obtaining readings. A code can be entered with or without entering a reading. <Up Arrow> and <Down Arrow> keys select the desired Trouble code from the list. <ENTER> updates the account with the selected Trouble code. <ESC> closes the popup. P.S. Stylus selects the desired Trouble code from the list, updates the account with the selected Trouble code and closes the popup.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 26 Adding / Editing a Text Message Hot Key: M X has no effect A 19-character message, 3 user messages of 20 characters each can be entered for each account or edited using this option. These messages can be sent from RM VRT and changed depending on the device configuration. A free form note pad is also available here. Entry into the note pad causes the account number and a time stamp to be added to any already existing text. This option is NOT account specific and is common to all accounts and routes. The text can be viewed from any account in the device. <TAB> or selecting message with a stylus moves the cursor to the next message for editing. Messages can be allowed /disallowed to be edited in the device configuration in Route Manager VRT. <ESC> Asks if the changes to messages to be saved. Clicking button <YES> with stylus or pressing key <Y> will save the changes and close popup; pressing button <NO> or clicking key <N> quit the popup without saving changes to messages.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 27 Setting the Re-sequence Flag Hot Key: Q X has no effect If account(s) is out of sequence in a route, setting the Re-sequence flag marks the route for re-sequencing by date time stamp during reading the route. The re-sequencing is going to be done in the Billing system after uploading to RM VRT. The message box will pop-up to verify if re-sequencing is desired. Answer yes or no by: o Touching the button <Yes> or <No> o Clicking letter “Y” or “N” on the keyboard o Moving to the desired button by using left/right arrow keys and pressing Enter when the button is highlighted.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 28 To remove Resequence request press Q again and select appropriate answer to the pop up message (see above) Single RF Index Read Hot Key: S X has no effect Single RF Index Read is used to get index read only. After pressing the “S” key an RF interrogation will start. The user will be able to watch status as “reading XP” with change in background colors. Once the interrogation is completed the account record will be updated.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 29 Notes: A success/fail sound will alert the meter reader about the result of reading if the option “Enable sound “is ON. If the Automove option is ON and the reading was successful, the display will show the next account in the route. If the account is the last one in the current route an audible alert will sound. Multiple Parameter RF Read Hot Key: R X has no effect Press the <ENTER> key to start the interrogation. Multiple parameter RF read is used to get index read and all the VRT requests. After pressing the “R” key or <ENTER> key an RF interrogation will start for index read and for all the VRT commands in the account. The user will be able to watch status as “reading XP”, ”Reading History”, ”Reading TOU” with change in background colors as follows. Once all the interrogations are completed the account record will be updated.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 30
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 31 Notes: A success/fail sound will alert the meter readers about the result of reading if the “Enable sound “option is on. If the Automove option is ON and all the reading were successful, the display will show the next account in the route. If the account is the last one in the current route an audible alert will sound.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 32 Single History / TOU RF Read If a “D” appears in the lower left corner of the data entry display, the account contains one or more History and or TOU requests. Press the “D” key to display a pop-up list of all requests. Use the Up / Down arrow keys or a stylus to select the History/TOU request to read. Press the <ENTER> key to start the interrogation. An RF communications window will open and RF interrogation will start. The user will be able to watch commands issued and replies returned from the target transponder. Once the interrogation is completed the account record will be updated. The pop-up list will be updated with the information obtained from the transponder for the chosen VRT request. If a valid index read does not exist, one will be added to any single History requests. A new index read will be added to any Single TOU request. Pressing the <ESC> key will close the Pop-Up display. General Index RF Read Hot Key: G X has no effect
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 33After pressing the “G” key the popup display will open. Enter the desired transponder number and press <ENTER>. An RF communications window will open and RF interrogation will start. The user will be able to watch commands issued and replies returned from the target transponder. When the interrogation is completed, the communications commands will be replaced with read results. Data is NOT added to the database. VersaProbe Jump to VersaProbe connection Hot Key: V This is a jump to the VersaProbe connection screen. X has no effect. Click <Ok> to close popup. VersaProbe Communication Modes The VersaProbe works only in the Sensus I/O Mode. Serial Communication Mode To communicate in serial mode, 1. Connect the lemo end of the lemo cable to the handheld’s lemo port and the other end to the 6 pin connector of the VersaProbe.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 342. On the handheld’s VersaProbe connection screen (use <V> key to view this screen from either main screen/ data entry screen), make sure that Serial is selected and com port is Com1. 3. Hit the Connect button. Once the connection is established Connect button will change to Drop, which is used to cancel the connection. The screen will be as follows: Bluetooth Communication Mode To activate the Bluetooth radio, press and hold the trigger button for about 12 seconds. During this time the display will progress through several steps. 1. Initially asterisks begin to appear on the display, from left to right. 2. As you continue to hold the trigger button, a blinking * will appear in the right corner of the protocol list display to indicate that Bluetooth radio is installed. 0……………….45 PROTOCOL LIST * + 100 ELSTER / AMCO *********************
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 35 3. Continue holding the trigger button, until the display changes to: 4. Release the trigger button and the display will change to: 5. The VersaProbe will perform a short radio module test and then display the Bluetooth device address of radio module. Enter this address into the handheld by updating the handheld’s configuration file using Route Manager VRT. 6. On the handheld’s VersaProbe connection screen (use <V> key to view this screen from either main screen/ data entry screen), make sure that the Bluetooth is selected and Com Port is Com8. Hit the Connect button and the screen will be as follows: RELEASE BUTTON NOW INITIALIZING BLUETOOTH RADIO BDA=006057FD4736 CONNECT VTCE NOW
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 36Data Entry with VersaProbe Rt: Route ID Xp: Probe Encoder Number TT: Transponder Type of Probe Mn: Meter Number LC: Location Code MT: Meter Type IC: Instruction Code Rd: Index Read  : Direction of Data Entry TC: Trouble Code St: Account Status AM-off/on AutoMove enabled Msg-0 There are 0 messages in the alarm category. AC / BT shows the type of power: AC from cradle or BT from battery Hi100% shows that the battery is charged at 100% Read with VersaProbe Press <V> key at main screen/ data entry screen, to show VersaProbe connection screen. Make sure the connection settings are correct and then hit the Connect button. Once the connection is established, the status changes to the Connected and the “Ready for Reads…” message displayed.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 37Since the VersaProbe is ready for the reads, simply hold the VersaProbe up to the meter, press the trigger button, and then release it within less than four seconds. A success/fail sound will alert the meter reader about the result of reading if the option “Enable sound “is on. The screen will be as shown below. Click on the OK button to view the data entry screen. Read will be updated in the account as shown below.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 38Transponder Installation Change Out In the installation route, hit F4 to view Change Out screen and choose from Meter Change Out and Index Change Out. The Change Out screen will be as follows: Meter Change Out Click on Meter Change Out button and enter the values of Old Index and New Meter number. Click OK. Screen will be as follows:
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 39 After successful change out you can see the status as “Mtr Change Out”. You can check “Change Out Report” for all the meter changes.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 40Index Change Out Enter the value of the index which you want to change. Click OK. After successful change out you can see the status as “Idx Change Out”. You can check “Change Out Report” for all the index changes.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 41Data Entry with Installation Water Rt: Route ID Mn: Meter Number LC: Location Code MC: Meter Location Code TC: Trouble Code Mt Rd: Index Read Xp: Transponder Serial Number PreD: PreDivider SC: Sub-Counts L Cnts: Leak Counts L Hrs: Leak Hours Find: Used to find the transponder Serial Number GPS: It will show GPS screen Set: To set entered parameter values Gas Rt: Route ID Mn: Meter Number LC: Location Code MC: Meter Location Code TC: Trouble Code Mt Rd: Index Read Xp: Transponder Serial Number PreD: PreDivider SC: Sub-Counts PCF: Pressure Compensation Factor Find: Used to find the transponder Number GPS: It will show GPS screen Set: To set entered parameter values The Installation feature works with High/Low power RF card.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 42Manually enter transponder serial number or just press Find button to read the transponder serial number. Current status is given in lower left corner of the screen. Once the transponder is found, it will display the transponder serial number and its parameter values as shown below. A success/fail sound will alert the meter readers about the result of reading if the “Enable sound “option is on.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 43The PCF (Gas), PreDivider (Water, Gas) and SC values can be set. Valid values for the PCF are from 1 to 255 and for the PreDivider values are :1,2,4,5,7,9,10,20,50,100, 200, 250. Enter the desired values and then click on the Set button. It will read, check and set the parameters values. Finally the status will be either Set Pass or Failed This feature also allows setting desired meter index. After a successful installation, it will reset the sub-count value to zero and the status as Installed.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 44Using the Scanner Scanner feature is available with Install Route( Read type of route). It will scan the transponder serial number and will be displayed on the current account as shown below. A successful scan will give sound on the handheld and as well as two beeps sound on the scanner. Using the GPS At the install route screen, by clicking on the GPS button you can view GPS Details screen which is as shown in the picture. GPS is used to find transponder location. It provides Latitude & Longitude values in decimal format. Refer to the configuration section for GPS ComPort settings.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 45 Status describes various phases of the process. First it tries to open port, Setup GPS unit. Once the device is setup, it gives transponder location in Latitude, Longitude values and status as GPS Info Completed. Click Ok to close popup.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 46Verification Data Entry with Verification Rt: Route ID Xp: Transponder Serial Number TT: Transponder Type Mn: Meter Number LC: Location Code MT: Meter Type V Rd: Visual Read IC: Instruction Code Rd: Index Read  : Direction of Data Entry TC: Trouble Code St: Account Status AM-off/on AutoMove enabled Msg-0 There are 0 messages in the alarm category. AC / BT shows the type of power: AC from cradle or BT from battery Hi100% shows that the battery is charged at 100% Read with Transponder Verification If the current read value is -2 and the transponder number is not blank, then pressing the <ENTER> key will trigger an RF read of the transponder along with verification of the transponder reading against a visual meter reading. After pressing <ENTER>, the screen shown below will appear.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 47 Enter the meter read obtained by visually reading the dials associated with the meter and press <ENTER> or tap OK to continue. If the difference between the visual meter read and the transponder read is less than or equal to the allowed tolerance as set through Route Manager VRT, then the verification will pass. Press <ENTER> or tap OK to return to the data entry screen. The verification information will be returned back to Route Manager VRT.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 48 If the difference between the visual meter read and the transponder read is greater than the allowed tolerance as set through Route Manager VRT, then the verification will fail. Press <ENTER> or tap OK to return to the data entry screen. The failed verification information will be returned back to Route Manager VRT.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 49If the route has the Allow Programming for Verification flag set, then you will be able to reprogram the transponder with a new index value after a failed verification. The screen displayed below shows a failed verification. Enter the new index value into the Pg Xp box and touch Set or press <ENTER> to continue with programming. After a successful program operation, the screen below will appear. Press <ENTER> or touch OK to continue.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 50You also have the option of reprogramming the index after a successful read verification. After the verification test passes, the screen below will be displayed. Touch Set to program the transponder with the value shown in the Pg Xp box, or press <ENTER> to continue without programming. TI VRT CE Communication with Route Manager VRT Establishing communications 1. Using the Devices section of Route Manager VRT, select the desired Handheld from the Handheld Selection drop-down list. 2. Ensure that the handheld device’s cradle and the computer with RM VRT are connected with the proper cable (Ethernet). 3. Ensure that the handheld is turned on and properly seated in its cradle. 4. Make sure the Handheld is in communications mode. (F3 from the Main Menu) 5. Click the Connect button in RM VRT.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 51
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 52Upon Successful connection: • The Connect button will display ‘Disconnect’ • The Serial Number and Handheld Software Version will be displayed directly beneath the Disconnect button. • The Handheld function buttons will be disabled. • The Handheld Communication buttons will be enabled. • If Routes exist in the Handheld they would be displayed in the “Routes in Handheld” display grid. Uploading Routes from RM VRT to TI VRT (CE) 1. Follow the Connection steps outlined earlier. 2. Ensure that the desired Route is assigned to the connected handheld. 3. Highlight the desired route(s) in the Assigned Routes display grid. 4. Click the Send Route button to send the route to the Handheld Device.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 53After the Route has been sent successfully to the Handheld device, the Routes in Handheld display grid will be updated to display the sent route and the Handheld will be automatically rebooted . Note: Uploading Route(s) will overwrite any existing data on the hand held. It is the user’s responsibility to make sure all data is downloaded from the hand held PRIOR to uploading new routes. Downloading data From TI VRT (CE) to RM VRT 1. Ensure that the Handheld is connected via the steps outlined earlier. 2. Select the desired Route(s) to receive from the Routes in Handheld display grid. 3. Click the Receive Route Button to start the process. 4. Upon successful completion the Route Status will change to ‘Transferred’ and the Handheld will disconnect from the application. Removing Route From TI VRT (CE) To Remove Routes From Hand Held after receive: 1. Follow the Steps outlined earlier for Transferring and Connecting to the Handheld device 2. Select the Remove Route(s) from device after received check box 3. Click the Receive Route(s) button To Remove Routes from HH without receiving the Route from HH: 1. Follow the Steps outlined earlier for Connecting to the Handheld. 2. Once connected, select the Route to remove from the Routes in Handheld display grid. 3. Click the Remove Route(s) from HH button. 4. Click OK on the message box. Updating Handheld files 1. Follow the Steps outlined earlier for Connecting to the Hand Held device. 2. Click the Update Handheld File button. You are presented with the Update Handheld Files form (see picture below) 3. Select one of the two options: Update Handheld Files or Send a File.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 54a. Update Handheld Files – Select the check boxes for the files you wish to update and then click button “Send File(s)”, or b. Send a File – Input or Browse to the name and location of a file to send to the Handheld and then click button “Send File(s)”
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 55Hot Keys Hot Keys Action A Account Details B Jump to Beginning of current route C Clear Reading D Detail History / TOU for Current Account. Pressing <Enter> key initiates RF interrogation for the selected item E Jump to End of current route F Set account as Unattempted (only for manual read) G General Interrogation of the entered transponder. H Search menu I Instruction code. J Jump (by sequence) L Location code. M Message (Comments). Messages can be added or edited if allowed. N Jump to Next route O ErrOr log P Jump to Previous route Q Set the Re-Sequence flag for upload R RF Read Index and all VRT requests for current account. Pressing <Enter> key initiates RF interrogation for the selected Account S Single index read for current account T Trouble code. Allows selection of trouble code for current account. U Jump to next Unread account V Jump to VersaProbe connection screen X Jump to record displayed prior to the jump (Only available for B,E,H,J,U hot keys) F1 Displays key list with description. When an item is selected the choice is executed (if appropriate). F2 Route Selection / Load F3 Current Route Summary or Communication on the main screen F4 Configuration Settings
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 56Configuration General Make sure the following values are added correctly. Handheld IP Address: IP address of Handheld RM VRT Host: Name of the computer with RM VRT installed Transfer Type: Ethernet HH ComPort: ComPort 2 Send Timeout: 100 Receive Timeout: 1800 Max History: 9
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 57 VersaProbe Make sure the following values are added correctly. Probe Baud Rate: 9600 Probe ComPort: Com8 for Bluetooth Communication Com1 for Serial Communication Probe Bluetooth ID: Select appropriate Bluetooth ID of the device Note: You will find this ID in the VersaProbe communication mode and It is created in Route Manager under Config\ Misc Codes\ VersaProbe Bluetooth ID\ create.
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 58Scanner & GPS Make sure the following values are added correctly. GPS ComPort: COM9 Scanner ComPort: COM8
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 59Troubleshooting 1. General troubleshooting. a. Click on the screen with the stylus if the navigation using device keys does not produce expected results. b. Try to reboot handheld by holding F1+ 0 +9 keys together for few seconds. 2. Trouble in connecting Handheld with host PC. a. Make sure that the Handheld is correctly seated in the cradle and there is not any contaminated material in between the cradle and handheld’s contacts. b. If using router (instead of Company’s Network connections) for handheld and host PC communication, make sure that the firewall on the host PC is disabled. (To disable firewall, go to “Start Menu” -> “Settings” -> “Control Panel” -> “windows firewall” and select option “OFF” ) c. Check if the Handheld’s LED is glowing either green or red. If not then may be AC charger is faulty. 3. For RF card error message or for further information, please contact Customer Service AMCO Automated Systems 208 South Rogers Lane Raleigh, NC 27610 Phone: 1-800-786-2215 Fax: 919-250-5439
TRACE INTERROGATOR VRT (CE) OPERATIONS Trace Interrogator VRT (CE) - User Guide AMCO Automated Systems P/N 52808T510 Rev. E, April 28, 2006 60

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