Elster Solutions HHI05 PI900W User Manual

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HHI05 User Manual

User Manual

EA_InspectorRelease 3.6User GuideTM42-3013I

ContentsSafety information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8New in release 3.6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Changes in release 3.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10About handheld devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10About This manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Audience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10New users. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Existing users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10What is the EnergyAxis System? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11EnergyAxis tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13EA_InstallerPlus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152 About the handheld. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16About the handheld. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Radix specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Safe RF exposure using external antenna . . . . . . . . . . . 18EA_Inspector Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18EA_Inspector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Transmission accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Navigating the software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Database warning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203 Operating the handheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Commonly used keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21<Esc>. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21<Enter> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Arrow keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22<Tab> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Entering responses (Yes/No). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Using the stylus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Turning the device on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Charging the device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Resetting the handheld device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Opening EA_Inspector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Logging in to the handheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Holding the handheld for meter reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

EA_Inspector User GuideContents34 About EA_Inspector software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Navigating the software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30User privileges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Saving notes and GPS data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Exiting EA_Inspector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Exiting from the login screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335 Performing a ping test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35About ping tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Accessing ping test menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36One shot ping test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37One shot ping of electric meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39One shot ping of a EA_Gatekeeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42One shot ping of gas module or AC-250 RMD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44One shot ping of a one-way water meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49One shot ping of two-way water meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Continuous ping test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Continuous ping of electric meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56Continuous ping of a gatekeeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58Continuous ping of gas or two-way water module . . . . . . . . . . 60Node to node ping test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Editing continuous ping test settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 646 Locating a node . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66About locating nodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Accessing node location menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Registered node locator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Find all IDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Finding an ID. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69Unregistered node locator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 717 Reading meter data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Accessing Read Meter Data menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Reading previous period data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Reading current period data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 768 Gas/Water Comms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78About gas and water communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Accessing Gas/Water Comms menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Reading gas/water comm info from an electric device. . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Reading gas/water comm info from a gas/water device. . . . . . . . . . . 819 Disconnecting and reconnecting meters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82About disconnecting and reconnecting electricity meters. . . . . . . . . . . 82REX meter service control switch status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82REX2 meter service control switch status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82A3 ALPHA meter with internal polyphase service control . . . . . 83About disconnecting and reconnecting gas meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Accessing Connect/Disconnect menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

EA_Inspector User GuideContents4Reading status of the service control switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85Checking load side voltage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Connecting an electricity meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Disconnecting an electricity meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Reading the state of the secondary relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Connecting a secondary relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Disconnecting a secondary relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Controlling a gas valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Gas valve privileges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Reading a gas valve’s modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Battery alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Hardware failure detected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Opening a gas valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Closing a gas valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Controlling a meter’s RF transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Reading the current state of an RF transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Disabling an RF transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Enabling an RF transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10710 Upgrading firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109About upgrading firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109REX2 meter with EA_NIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109A3 ALPHA meter with EA_NIC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110Upgrading the EA_NIC firmware in the handheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110Upgrading a gas or water module’s firmware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112Upgrading a gas meter’s RMD firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116Upgrading a meter’s EA_NIC radio firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119Upgrading a REX2 meter’s firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Upgrading an A3 ALPHA meter’s firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125Upgrading 900 MHz HAN devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128Upgrading a 900 MHz HAN device’s radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128Upgrading a 900 MHz HAN device firmware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13111 Configuring meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136About HAN broadcasts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136Accessing HAN Broadcast menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136Configuring HAN Broadcast settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138Checking the status of the meter’s HAN broadcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139Turning off the meter’s broadcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141Turning on the meter’s broadcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143Setting meter associations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144Configuring water module leak settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146Performing a demand reset on an electricity meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14812 Managing home area network devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150Accessing Home Area Network menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151ZigBee HAN device commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152View devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152Viewing HAN NIC information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154900 MHz HAN devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

EA_Inspector User GuideContents5Commissioning a 900 MHz device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155Reading a 900 MHz HAN device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156Pinging a 900 MHz HAN device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157Method 1 - from the Commission Device screen157Method 2 - from the Ping Device screen158Decommissioning a 900 MHz device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159Reading a decommissioned device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161Configuring a 900 MHz device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161Accessing the Config 900 MHz HAN menu . . . . . . . . . .161Configuring general parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162Configuring pricing parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164Clearing pricing parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166Configuring messaging parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16713 Configuring the handheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170About configuring the handheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170Accessing handheld configuration menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171Configuring EA Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175Viewing About EA_Inspector information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176A Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177General troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177Trouble connecting to EA_Inspector Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177Communication mode errors and warning messages . . . . . . . . . . . . 177Verifying encrypted communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178Elster contact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

EA_Inspector User Guide 6FCC and Industry Canada complianceCompliance statement (Part 15.19)Radix FW950 (equipped with the EnergyAxis network interface card) and Radix FW950 (equipped with the EnergyAxis network interface card and an external antenna) comply with Part 15 (Class B), Part 90 of the FCC rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. The FCC ID's are G8JHHI03 and G8JHHI04. The Industry Canada is 4557C-HHI03.General informationThis device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.Industry Canada statementThis device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS-210 standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.Industry Canada antenna statement Radix FW950 (equipped with the EnergyAxis network interface card and an external antenna) incorporates an external antenna onto the handheld unit. For the handheld units please note the following statements as they relate to the external antenna on the handheld unit. Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.

EA_Inspector User Guide 7This radio transmitter IC:4557C-HHI03 has been approved by Industry Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below with the maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device.Le présent émetteur radio IC:4557C-HHI03 a été approuvé par Industrie Canada pour fonctionner avec les types d'antenne énumérés ci-dessous et ayant un gain admissible maximal et l'impédance requise pour chaque type d'antenne. Les types d'antenne non inclus dans cette liste, ou dont le gain est supérieur au gain maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l'exploitation de l'émetteur.• Antenna Part Number: 1B11922Warning (Part 15.21)Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Elster could void the user's authority to operate this equipment. User informationThis equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.RF exposureA separation distance of at least 8 inches (20 cm) is to be maintained between the antenna and the human body and must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other transmitter or antenna.Disclaimer of warranties and limitation of liabilityThere are no understandings, agreements, representations, or warranties either expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, other than those specifically set out by any existing contract between the parties. Any such contract states the entire obligation of the seller. The contents of this technical manual shall not become part of or modify any prior or existing agreement, commitment, or relationship.The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices in this technical manual are based on Elster experience and judgment with respect to the operation and maintenance of the described product. This information should not be considered as all–inclusive or covering all contingencies. If further information is required, Elster should be consulted.

EA_Inspector User Guide 8No warranties, either expressed or implied, including warranties of fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability, or warranties arising from the course of dealing or usage of trade, are made regarding the information, recommendations, descriptions, warnings, and cautions contained herein.In no event will Elster be held responsible to the user in contract, in tort (including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to: damage or loss of use of equipment, cost of capital, loss of profits or revenues, or claims against the user by its customers from the use of the information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices contained herein.Safety information Installation, operation, and maintenance of this product can present potentially hazardous conditions (for example, high voltages) if safety procedures are not followed. To ensure that this product is used safely, it is important that you:Review, understand, and observe all safety notices and recommendations within this manual.Do not remove or copy individual pages from this manual, as this manual is intended for use in its entirety. If you were to remove or copy individual pages, cross references and safety notices may be overlooked, possibly resulting in damage to the equipment, personal injury, or even death.Inform personnel involved in the installation, operation, and maintenance of the product about the safety notices and recommendations contained in this manual.Within this manual, safety notices appear preceding the text or step to which they apply. Safety notices are divided into the following four classifications:Notice is used to alert personnel to installation, operation, or maintenance information that is important but not hazard related.Caution is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will or can cause minor personal injury, equipment damage, or property damage if the notice is ignored.Warning is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that can cause severe personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if notice is ignored.

EA_Inspector User Guide 9Danger is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will cause severe personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if the notice is ignored.New in release 3.6 EA_Inspector Manager and EA_Inspector introduce the following new features:• support for 900 MHz HAN devices• support for enabling/disabling an RF transmitter• support for controlling the AC-250 RMD (Remote Meter Disconnect) for gas metersNote: The Radix FW950 handheld (Style No. 1C12455G01) should be equipped with an external antenna to perform actions on the AC-250 RMD. The external antenna allows the Radix handheld to issue commands to gas valves up to 900 feet from the handheld. Contact your Elster respresentative for more information.Note: To use the new features in EA_Inpsector 3.6, you must use EA_Inspector Manager 3.6. While EA_Inspector will function with prior releases of EA_Inspector Manager, to fully use the software requires EA_Inspector Manager 3.6.Changes in release 3.6 • To prevent over-writing valid encryption seeds, EA_Inspector Manager checks for new seed data received from EA_MS. Earlier releases would allow null key sets to overwrite valid keys in the EA_Inspector. Caution: Elster strongly recommends that encryption seeds only be downloaded after seed changes are made.

1INTRODUCTIONThis document provides comprehensive operating instructions for the use of the EA_Inspector software.About handheld devices Handheld devices are lightweight and easy to use handheld computers for troubleshooting EnergyAxis meter communications using touch screen technology. About This manual This guide provides instructions for setup, operation and troubleshooting of the handheld device. It is structured for use as an adjunct to Elster system training, as well as a standalone instruction guide and reference. The screen shots shown in various illustrations may vary slightly from your handheld's display. AudienceThis document is designed for utility industry meter readers and supervisory staff. In order to establish appropriate levels of detail for the material, this document assumes the following:• The user is experienced in reading meters of the type currently compatible with Elster meters and possesses all the skills necessary to conduct meter reading by conventional means.• The user has little or no prior expertise with automated metering infrastructure (AMI) technology. • The user is competent in the basic use of computers and software. New usersIf you are new to Elster AMI products, or are new to AMI products in general, please take some time to go through all the sections of the user guide. Existing usersIf you are already familiar with Elster AMI products, you will still find it helpful to go through the Introduction and detail sections to understand how the features of the handheld device work together and what information is needed to perform each feature.

EA_Inspector User GuideIntroduction11What is the EnergyAxisSystem?The EnergyAxis System (Figure 1-1) is designed for residential and commercial and industrial (C&I) metering automation of electricity, gas and water. It is composed of up to three parts: 1. EnergyAxis Management System (EA_MS) that reads gatekeepers to gather meter data, analyzes RF LAN performance, and exports an XML file of all read data for importing into various enterprise systems such as billing, work order management, outage management, etc. 2. One or more 900 MHz radio frequency (RF) networks composed of an EA_Gatekeeper and up to 1024 or 2048 of the following meters:• REX, REX2, and gREX meters equipped with an EA_NIC• optional service control switch for remote reconnection/disconnection• optional ZigBee communications option board for home automation (REX2 meters only)• A3 ALPHA meters with the EA_NIC (EnergyAxis network interface card)• water meters equipped with EA_Water Module (900 MHz RF radio) • gas meters equipped with EA_Gas Module (900 MHz RF radio)3. Optional – one or more home automation networks (HAN) composed of a REX2 meter with ZigBee comm option and one or more ZigBee-enabled home area devices (HAD) - for example, programmable thermostat, in home display, or load control device.

EA_Inspector User GuideIntroduction12Figure 1-1. EnergyAxis SystemEach gatekeeper gathers and stores meter data from its registered node meters and associated water and gas modules and manages the EA_LAN. These gatekeepers upload the data to the EnergyAxis Management System (EA_MS) via a public or private WAN either on a scheduled or on-demand basis. Each REX and REX2 meter, EA_Repeater and A3 ALPHA node can act as repeaters that relay meter data from downstream, or descendent, meters up to the gatekeeper. When a repeater’s RF transmission capability is blocked, the gatekeeper determines that something is wrong and initiates a node scan. The node scan re-builds the 900 MHz network bypassing the faulty node. In this manner, the network is called proactive and self-healing.

EA_Inspector User GuideIntroduction15EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector ManagerThe EA_Inspector is a tool for use with EnergyAxis System. EnergyAxis devices are equipped with RF modules that transmit meter data to gatekeepers through the EA_LAN. The EA_LAN occasionally may need troubleshooting to locate issues and EA_Inspector is the tool designed to locate these issues. EA_Inspector also performs firmware upgrades for devices in the field. EA_Inspector can also help locate unknown meters or determine the best placement for an EA_Repeater.Before going into the field, the user synchronizes the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager. This loads and updates the user credentials (logon and permissions) and any other necessary security features. Note: A new EA_Inspector handheld must be synchronized with EA_Inspector Manager prior to being used in the field to enable user logon capability. Figure 1-4. EA_InspectorOnce the functions have been performed in the field, resynchronize the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager. EA_Inspector Manager is then used to export GPS coordinates, TOU and demand data and AMRDEF files. Additionally, activity logs (one encrypted and one unencrypted) are downloaded from the handheld.Note: Encrypted logs are only accessible by the EA_Inspector Manager security administrator.

2ABOUT THE HANDHELDAbout the handheld The handheld is a Radix FW950 device that functions as the platform handheld installation tool for Elster’s EA_Gas and EA_Water modules, as well as supporting EA_Inspector. The handheld is a rugged Radix handheld computer with the EnergyAxis network interface (EA_NIC) card installed. This handheld allows field personnel to install the EA_Gas and EA_Water modules onto gas meters. The handheld also supports controlling the AC-250 gas meter with Remote Meter Disconnect (RMD). The handheld also performs troubleshooting tasks for EnergyAxis meter RF communications. Figure 2-1. Radix FW950 handheld (Style No. 7S1501G002)Radix specifications• Windows CE 5.0• .NET Framework 1.1 or 2.0 • Marvell PXA270, 520MHz processor• 128 MB RAM 512 MB flash drive• 3.5” (89mm) 240 x 320 TFT 65K Color industrial grade touch screen• 48-key ergonomic keypad with separate numeric keys• User replaceable lithium-ion battery pack, 3 hour charge, up to 8 hours use• EnergyAxis network interface card (EA_NIC)• Elster software• RF Transmitter - 451 MHz (wake-up tone); 900 MHz• RF Receiver - 900 MHz

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout the handheld17• FCC compliance: Part 90 and Part 15. The FCC ID is G8JHHI03. • Operating temperature: -4 °F to +140 °F (-20 °C to + 60 °C)• USB, Ethernet, serial, IPP, multiple communications ports• IP-67 rated (1 meter submersion)• Elster nose cone is IP-67 rated (1 meter submersion)• MIL-STD-810F method - 1.5 meter drop onto concrete test• Optional - the Radix handheld supports using an external antenna for use with the AC 250 Remote Meter Disconnect (RMD) valve control module.Figure 2-2. Radix FW950 with external antenna (Style No. 1C12455G01)

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout the handheld18Safe RF exposure using external antennaThe antenna used for the Radix transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 8 inches (20 cm) from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.EA_Inspector Manager EA_Inspector Manager synchronizes the handheld with a host computer. Synchronizing the handheld copies files between the handheld and the host computer. Figure 2-3. Handheld-to-meter RF communicationBefore EA_Inspector can be run, EA_Inspector Manager must load the following files onto the handheld:• user credentials (user names and passwords) file1• meter ID (marriage) file2• LAN seed file3• 900 MHz HAN parameter files4After the first synchronization, the EA_Inspector is ready to be used in the field. 1. Required to operate the handheld.2. Only required if operating in meter ID mode; LAN ID mode works without marriage files.3. Not required to operate; only needs to update LAN seeds if changes were made.4. Only needed if HAN operations are planned.

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout the handheld19EA_Inspector The EA_Inspector is a tool for the EnergyAxis System. EnergyAxis devices (electricity, gas, and water meters and in-home devices are equipped with RF modules that transmit meter data to EA_Gatekeepers through the EA_LAN. The EA_LAN occasionally may need troubleshooting to locate issues and EA_Inspector is the tool designed to locate these issues. EA_Inspector also performs firmware upgrades for devices in the field. EA_Inspector can also help locate unknown meters or determine the best placement for an EA_Repeater.The software performs the following actions:•ping test •locate node •read meter data •gas/water comms •disconnect and reconnect meters •update firmware •configure meters •manage home area network devices Note: The handheld may also be loaded with EA_Installer or EA_InstallerPlus software. Both EA_InstallerPlus and EA_Inspector may be installed on the same handheld; however, only one application may be active at a time.Transmission accuracyThe accuracy of transmitted data is insured in two ways:• the meter only replies after detection of its unique ID (serial number or LAN ID)• the EA_NIC and module transmits an error-detection code with the meter data that is used by the handheld to confirm that the data has been received without errors. Navigating the softwareSimple menu commands allow access to the software functions. These commands fall into the following categories: Main Menu Sub menu Sub menuRF Troubleshooting Ping One shot ping test Continuous ping testNode to node ping testRegistered node locator Unregistered node locator Gas/Water Comms Read from Electric Read from Gas/WaterRead Meter Data Read Current Data Read Previous Data

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout the handheld20Database warning Do not attempt to modify or edit any of the database tables or files outside of the Elster handheld / EA_Inspector Manager environment without prior authorization by Elster technical support personnel. Unauthorized manipulation of these files may void your software service agreements.Connect/Disconnect Load Side Power Read Current State Load Side Voltage Check Connect Disconnect Secondary Relay Read Current State Open Relay Close Relay Gas Valve Control Read Open Close RF Control Read Current State Disable RF (Transmitter) Enable RF (Transmitter) Config Meter HAN Broadcast Read Current State Start - turn ON End - turn OFF Meter Association EA_Water Module Demand Reset Firmware Upgrade Home Area Network ZigBee HAN View Devices HAN NIC Info 900 MHz HAN Commission Ping Decommission Configure General Pricing Messaging Firmware Upgrade HH Config HH settings EA Defaults Main Menu Sub menu Sub menu

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld22Arrow keysThese keys (<Up>, <Down>, <Left>, and <Right>) are used to navigate directionally in the screen. <Tab>• Navigates between fields within the current screen (for example, messages and search). Entering responses (Yes/No)You respond to questions using either of the following methods:• Tap the button Yes or No with the stylus• Press <Y> or <N> on the keyboard• Moving to the desired button by using left/right arrow keys and pressing <Enter> when the button is highlightedUsing the stylus Use the stylus to tap a command button or to move focus to a data entry field. If you do not have a stylus, use the tip of your fingernail (not the soft pad of your finger).Turning the device onand offTo turn the handheld on, press and hold any key until the handheld turns on.The handheld turns off automatically after the handheld had been idle for more than one minute off the charging cradle; the idle timeout is configurable.Charging the device Place the handheld in its cradle to recharge the battery. The red Battery Status Light on the top right corner of the handheld will flash on and off while the battery is charging. Once that battery is fully charged, the status light will remain on.Resetting the handhelddeviceTo reset the handheld:1. Hold down the <R> + <X> + <> keys down simultaneously for several seconds.2. Release the keys when the screen goes blank.3. Recalibrate the touch screen as directed.Note: Resetting the handheld in the cradle will remove the EA_Inspector application short-cut from the desktop.

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld23Opening EA_Inspector To access EA_Inspector:1. From the handheld’s desktop, select the EA_Inspector icon and press <Enter>.Figure 3-2. Handheld desktopThe EA_Inspector splash screen displays. Figure 3-3. EA_Inspector splash screenThe EA_NIC loads the EA_Inspector firmware.

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld24Note: You will see the RF Firmware Load screen only if EA_Inspector detects a firmware file with a different version in the handheld than the existing EA_NIC firmware version. If the firmware file version is higher than the current firmware version in EA_NIC, EA_Inspector will upgrade the EA_NIC firmware. Otherwise, EA_Inspector will ask the user "Are you sure you want to update vm.m over vn.n?”Figure 3-4. Loading firmware2. Click OK to acknowledge the firmware is loaded.Figure 3-5. Firmware loadedThe login screen displays. See “Logging in to the handheld” on page 25 for instructions on logging in to EA_Inspector.

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld25Logging in to thehandheldBefore you can operate the EA_Inspector on the handheld, you must first synchronize the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager. This ensures that users’ credentials and other needed files are downloaded to the handheld. See the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details on synchronizing the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager. Note: A new EA_Inspector handheld must be synchronized with EA_Inspector Manager prior to being used in the field to ensure user logon capability. Without an initial synchronization, a user cannot log onto the EA_Inspector application on the handheld.Note: If the expiration date is passed, you cannot log in to EA_Inspector. You must have the Security Administrator synchronize the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager to reset the HH expiration date.Note: The Login ID and password are not case sensitive. So you do not need to be concerned about typing upper and lower case letters.To login to EA_Inspector:1. Enter your Login ID.Note: A Security Admin cannot log in to EA_Inspector. The Security Admin privilege applies to EA_Inspector Manager only.Figure 3-6. Login screen2. Enter your Password.3. Click OK.EA_Inspector displays the Main Menu.— OR —If the expiration date has passed or a new handheld was not synchronized, a note displays. Your system administrator will need to synchronize the

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld26handheld with EA_Inspector Manager to load user logon information and set the handheld’s expiration date.Figure 3-7. Handheld expiration— OR —To properly use EA_Inspector, the handheld must be synchronized with EA_Inspector Manager. Depending on the user’s permissions and privileges (see EA_Inspector Installation and Administration Guide) the handheld may respond in unexpected ways.If the handheld has not been synchronized with EA_Inspector Manager, the handheld displays a message “No meter SN/LAN ID file exists. Please update with EA_Inspector Manager.” Table 3-1. Permissions and privilegesEA_Inspector Manager User ID Handheld EA_Inspector softwareSynchronized Handheld filesaAllow LAN ID privilegeUseLANID setting enabled BehaviorYes Yes Yes • Uses meter LAN ID to identify devices.Yes No No • Displays a message “No meter SN/LAN ID file exists. Please update with EA_Inspector Manager.”• Uses meter Serial Number (SN) to identify devices.Yes Yes No • Displays message “No SN/LAN ID file found: Use LAN ID mode enabled.” • Automatically enables UseLANID.• Uses meter LAN ID to identify devices.

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld27Figure 3-8. EA_MS meter and Meter ID file not on handheldFigure 3-9. EA_Inspector Main Menua. Refer to the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details on synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager.No SN/LAN ID file but with Allow LAN ID privilegeNo SN/LAN ID file but without Allow LAN ID privilegeLogon disabled Logon enabled

EA_Inspector User GuideOperating the handheld28Holding the handheld formeter readingWhen using a handheld device to read a meter, hold the handheld device upright.Note: The stronger RF signals radiate out of the extended antenna from the front and back of the cover.Figure 3-10. Handheld-to-meter RF communication

4ABOUT EA_INSPECTOR SOFTWAREAfter successfully logging into the handheld device, you will see the main menu screen. Figure 4-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe main menu screen allows the selection of the following modes:1. RF Troubleshooting •Ping•Locate node (registered and unregistered) •Gas/Water Comms 2. Read Meter Data•Read Current Data •Read Previous Data 3. Connect/Disconnect • Load Side Power:•Read current state •Load side voltage check •Connect •Disconnect • Gas Valve Control •Read

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout EA_Inspector software30•Open •Close • RF Control •Read Current State •Disable RF (Transmitter) •Enable RF (Transmitter) • Secondary Relay:•Read Current State •Open Relay •Close Relay 4. Configure Meter •EA HAN Broadcast•Meter Associations •EA_Water Module •Demand Reset •Firmware Upgrade 5. Home Area Network• ZigBee HAN•Ping •Devices •Channels •HAN NIC Info • 900 MHz HAN•Commission •Ping •Configure •Decommission 6. HH Configuration •HH Settings •EA Defaults Navigating the software Instead of using the stylus to navigate the software, you can press the number preceding the command. For example, from the main menu screen you can press the keys to access the commands:Key Command<1> RF Troubleshooting<2> Read Meter Data<3> Connect/Disconnect<4> Configure Meter<5> Home Area Network<6> HH Configuration<0> Exit

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout EA_Inspector software31You can also use the arrow keys to navigate up and down the list of commands and then press <Enter> to execute the command.Additionally, the first letter of each button label is an accelerator key for that function. For example, <S> for Save, <P> for Ping, <C> for Cancel, etc. <ESC> can be used for Cancel or for exiting any menu.User privileges Depending on the privileges set by the system administrator when adding a user in EA_Inspector Manager, the user may use the LAN ID or the Serial Number to identify a device. Refer to the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details on user privileges. If the user has the Allow LAN ID privilege, the user may use the device’s LAN ID on data entry screens. If the user does not have the Allow LAN ID privilege, the user must enter the device’s Serial Number (S/N) on data entry screens.Note: To use MAS 6.2 or earlier, you must have Allow LAN ID privileges.Note: If Allow LAN ID is disabled and the EA_MS 7.0 meter name and LAN ID data have not been downloaded to the handheld, the user will not be able to use EA_Inspector. See “Downloading meter and LAN ID information” on page 33 for details.In addition to the user having the proper privileges to Allow LAN ID, the handheld itself must be enabled to Use LAN ID. See Table 3-1 on page 26 and “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details on configuring the handheld to use LAN IDs.Saving notes and GPSdataTo enter any action notes or collect GPS data:1. Click Save on any screen.The Notes screen displays allowing you to enter any notes regarding the activity.

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout EA_Inspector software32Figure 4-2. Notes screen2. Additionally, you can click GPS to collect the GPS coordinates for the handhelds current location at the time of the communication. The GPS Details screen displays.Figure 4-3. GPS Details screenThe GPS Details screen indicates the status of the attempt to get GPS coordinates.A successful read displays a status of GPS Info Completed.3. If the GPS read fails, press Retry or <R> to retry the operation. 4. Click OK to exit the screen and save the coordinate values.Click Cancel to return to the previous screen without GPS values.

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout EA_Inspector software33Exiting EA_Inspector 1. While the Main Menu screen is open, press <Esc> or press Exit to exit the software. A dialog displays asking you to confirm you wish to exit. Figure 4-4. Exiting EA_Inspector2. Use <Tab>, <Left> or <Right> arrow keys to select the response.— OR —Touch Yes or press <Y> or press <Enter> when the button is highlighted to accept the selection.Touch No or press <N> or press <Enter> when the button is highlighted to cancel.Exiting from the login screenTo exit without logging in:1. From the Login screen, press Exit.A dialog displays asking you to confirm you wish to exit.

EA_Inspector User GuideAbout EA_Inspector software34Figure 4-5. Exiting EA_Inspector2. Use <Tab>, <Left> or <Right> arrow keys to select the response.— OR —Touch Yes or press <Y> or press <Enter> when the button is highlighted to accept the selection.Touch No or press <N> or press <Enter> when the button is highlighted to cancel.

5PERFORMING A PING TESTAbout ping tests A ping test sends an RF command to an EnergyAxis RF module (EA_NIC) or meter and retrieves the devices ID and serial number. A ping test sends ten packets, receives ten packets in response and reports the average received signal strength indication (RSSI) from the ten attempts. RSSI is displayed in decibel milliWatts (dBm) except for Node to node ping test which uses the range of 0 to 7 where 0 indicates no signal and 1 indicates the best (or maximum) RSSI and 7 indicates the worst RSSI:The continuous ping test performs multiple ping tests in sequence. RSSI Strength (in dBm)0 no signal1 > -40 best2-40 and > -503 -50 and > -604 -60 and > -705 -70 and > -806 -80 and > -907-90 worst

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test36Accessing ping testmenuTo access the Ping Test menu:1. From the Main Menu, select RF Troubleshooting.Figure 5-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe RF Troubleshooting menu displays.Figure 5-2. RF Troubleshooting menuThe RF Troubleshooting menu displays.2. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select Ping.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test37Figure 5-3. Ping Test menu3. The Ping Test menu allows you to select from the following list of ping tests:•One shot ping test•Continuous ping test•Node to node ping testOne shot ping test To perform a one shot ping:1. From the Ping Test menu, select One Shot.The One Shot Ping Test menu displays. Note: Depending on the type of utility, you may see the One Shot Ping Test menu for an electric, gas and water utility or the One Shot Ping Test menu for an electric and gas utility. However, if the handheld is set up for electric only, you will not see the One Shot Ping Test menu. Instead you will see the Ping Test input screen.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test38Figure 5-4. Ping menu for electric, gas and water utilityFigure 5-5. Ping menu for electric and gas utility2. The One Shot Ping Test menu allows you to select from the following ping tests:1) One shot ping of electric meter2) One shot ping of gas module or AC-250 RMD3) One shot ping of a one-way water meter4) One shot ping of two-way water meter

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test39One shot ping of electric meterTo perform a one shot ping of an electric meter (REX, REX2, EA_Repeater, EA_Gatekeeper or A3 ALPHA node):1. From the One Shot Ping Test menu, select Electric.See “One shot ping of a EA_Gatekeeper” on page 42 for details on pinging a gatekeeper.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.Figure 5-6. Ping test input screen2. Enter the ID of the electric meter to be pinged.Note: To use the LAN ID to ping devices, you must have Allow LAN ID privilege (see EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details) as well as Use LAN ID enabled on the handheld (see “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details. To use the meter’s serial number to ping devices, your system administrator must download EA_MS meter ID (marriage data) file from EA_MS and synchronize the file to the handheld. 3. Check if the device Is a GK (gatekeeper).4. Click Ping.The ping test occurs and the input screen displays the results as they are received.Use LAN ID checkedUse LAN ID unchecked

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test40Figure 5-7. Successful ping test results - REX2 meterNote: If the entered ID is not in the downloaded EA_Inspector file, the display lists the ID and a message that the specified ID is unknown.The ping test results displays the following information:Serial No. not in databaseItem DescriptionGK (Gatekeeper) Indicates the pinged meter’s registered gatekeeper.Parent Indicates the parent node (or repeater) of the pinged meter.Level/Desc Example, 2/1 - The 2 (Level) indicates the node level from the registered gatekeeper of the pinged meter (for example, a node level of 2 indicates that the pinged meter communicates with its registered gatekeeper through one repeater meter); the 1 (Desc) indicates the number of repeater descendants below.Total kWh Indicates the Total kWh in the pinged meter’s register.Host/RadioFW Indicates the firmware version for the host and the radio of the pinged meter.Packets Indicates the number the packets received/number of sent. For example, 7/10 indicates that 7 out of 10 packets were received.RSSI Indicates the EA_NIC’s received signal strength indicator in dBma. a. Decibel milliwatts (also dBmW).Meter RSSI For REX2 meters FW 3.0 or higher, indicates the meter’s received signal strength indicator (in dBm).

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test41Figure 5-8. Communication warningsIf you receive a communication error or warning message [Figure 5-8], see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test42Figure 5-9. Entering notes for saving to log6. Use the keyboard to enter any notes regarding the test.7. Press <Enter> to save your notes to the activity log and exit the test.— OR —Press <Esc> to exit the test without saving your notes.One shot ping of a EA_GatekeeperNote: If you are pinging a gatekeeper with FW v4.x or 5.x, you must turn off encryption in the handheld. See “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details.To perform a one shot ping of a EA_Gatekeeper (both enclosure-based and in an A3 ALPHA meter):1. From the One Shot Ping Test menu, select Electric.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.2. Check Is GK (Gatekeeper).3. Enter the ID of the gatekeeper to be pinged.4. Click Ping.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test43Figure 5-10. One shot ping of a gatekeeperThe ping test occurs and the input screen displays the results as they are received.Figure 5-11. Successful ping of gatekeeper5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test44One shot ping of gas module or AC-250 RMDTo perform a one shot ping of a gas meter’s RF module or on an AC-250 RMD (valve control module):1. From the One Shot Ping Test menu, select Gas.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.Figure 5-12. Ping test input screen2. Click Ping.EA_Inspector prompts you to hold a magnet on the gas module for 3 seconds.Figure 5-13. Hold magnet prompt

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test453. Hold the magnet on the bottom left of the gas module approximately 0.5 inches in from the left edge (see Figure 5-14, Figure 5-15, and Figure 5-16).Figure 5-14. Holding magnet on gas module v1.0Figure 5-15. Holding magnet on gas module v2.0The EA_Gas v3.0 module requires a magnet swipe unless it is operating in Mobile mode or in Hybrid (Fixed and Mobile) mode.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test46Figure 5-16. Holding magnet on gas module v3.0The ping test occurs and the input screen displays the results as they are received.Figure 5-17. Successful ping test resultsThe ping test results displays the following information:Item DescriptionID Indicates the serial number ID of the EA_Gas module.Read Indicates the index reading (that is, gas usage).

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test474. If the display indicates one or more tamper statuses, click Clear Status to clear the statuses from the module.Note: If a tamper status is not in effect, the Clear Status button will appear disabled.Status drop list • EncReadErr - a problem has occurred when reading an encoder-type water module; it means a bad digit was read. If Tamper is also set, it means a complete read failure.• RESET_ERROR - the module has been reset since the last clear data. This flag is always set at power up, but will be cleared at final assembly, and at install.• TiltTmpr - Indicates the meter has a tilt tamper condition in effect.• SwitchTmpr - for Water modules this indicates a Leak condition has been detected; indicates the meter has a switch tamper condition in effect as the result of holding a magnet next to the gas module for more than 5 minutes.• LowBattery - indicates that the battery has fallen below the set threshold after a transmit; this is a latched status.• BackFlow - for water modules with encoder-type registers; indicates a back flow condition has been detected• OverLimit - for water modules with encoder-type registers; indicates an over limit condition has been detected• ModuleErr- indicates a configuration error, CRC error, or EEPROM write error has occurred; this is a latched status.PreDiv Indicates the Predivider; the number used to convert meter pulses to index usage value. A predivider of 50 means that 50 pulses received from the meter converts to one index read.PCF Indicates the pressure compensation factor used to adjust the meter reading for billing.Time Indicates the date and time kept in the module.Trans period Indicates the number of hours between gas module transmissions of data to its associated gatekeeper. For example, if Trans period is 4 hours, the gas module transmits its data to the gatekeeper every 4 hours.Trans var Indicates the window time for the gas module to transmit its data. For example, if the Trans period is 4 hours and the Trans variance is 4 hours, the gas module transmits its data to the gatekeeper at a randomly selected time between 4 AM and 8 AM.Firmware Indicates the firmware version used by the EA_Gas module.Item Description

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test48Figure 5-18. Clearing a status5. Click More to view more information on the gas meter and module.Figure 5-19. View more informationThe More screen displays the following additional information about the gas meter:Item DescriptionSubCount Indicates the pulse count stored internally in the meter before the predivider is applied to obtain the meter read.IntDiv/Len Indicates the Interval Divisor and Length in minutes for determining interval data.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test49• To return to the previous screen, use a stylus or finger to press More on the handheld’s display.6. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.One shot ping of a one-way water meterTo ping a one-way or two-way water module, you must perform a Find that reports the data transmitted by the water module after a magnet triggers an RF transmission. See “One shot ping of two-way water meter” on page 52 for details on pinging a two-way water module.To perform a one shot ping of a one-way water meter’s RF module:1. From the One Shot Ping Test menu, select Water.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.DailySnapShot Indicates the time of the day at which the meter read is recorded for the daily read.Style Indicates the Elster style number for the gas module.Assembly Indicates the Elster assembly serial number.DST Indicates the time of the daylight saving time change followed by the recurring day and month for the Spring and Fall DST change dates. For example, 2nd Sun/3 indicates the second Sunday in March and 1st Sun/11 indicates the first Sunday in November.OPMode Indicates the operating mode of the meter:• 0 - EnergyAxis System - the default network mode set after installation using the PI 900 handheld software• 1 - Walk By/Drive By • 2- EAHybrid - Future use• 3- Legacy - Future use• 4 - DeepSleep - factory shipped mode• 5 - Burn-in - mode used during factory configurationItem Description

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test50Figure 5-20. Ping test input screen2. For a one-way water module, click Find.EA_Inspector prompts you to hold a magnet on the water module for 3 seconds.Figure 5-21. Hold magnet prompt3. Lift the cover over the water meter.4. Hold the magnet on the bottom center of the water module (see Figure 5-22).

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test51Figure 5-22. Holding magnet on water meter module 1.0The ping test occurs, the water module transmits one packet of data that the input screen displays.Figure 5-23. Successful ping test results

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test52The ping test results displays the following information:5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.One shot ping of two-way water meterYou can perform a standard ping test a two-way EA_Water 2.0 module. Two-way water modules may be either encoder-based modules or pulse-based modules.See “One shot ping of a one-way water meter” on page 49 for details on pinging a one-way water meter.To perform a one shot ping of a two-way water meter’s RF module:1. From the One Shot Ping Test menu, select Water.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.Figure 5-24. Ping test input screenItem DescriptionID Indicates the serial number ID of the EA_Water module.LAN ID Indicates the LAN ID for the EA_Water module.EncReg Indicates the encoder register number.Mt Read Indicates the meter reading (that is, total water usage).Status Indicates the status of the meter or module:•Bad Digit - indicates data received from the encoding register was corrupted•Leak - alarm indicating the meter detected a possible leak•No Read - indicates that module did not receive data from the meter•Tamper - alarm indicating the meter detected a possible tamper eventEncoder-based Pulse-based

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test53EA_Inspector prompts you to hold a magnet on the water module for 3 seconds to waken the module.The EA_Water v3.0 module requires a magnet swipe unless it is operating in Mobile mode or in Hybrid (Fixed and Mobile) mode.Figure 5-25. Holding magnet on water meter module 2.0/3.0Figure 5-26. Holding magnet on pit mounted meter module2. For a two-way water module, click Ping.EA_Inspector pings for any two-way water modules within range. The water module responds to the ping.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test54Figure 5-27. Successful ping two-way water module3. Click Clear Status to clear the statuses in the module.The handheld displays the results after the statuses are cleared.4. Click More to view additional information.Figure 5-28. Clear statuses• To return to the previous screen, use a stylus or finger to press More on the handheld’s display.5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.Encoder-based Pulse-basedMore screen

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test55EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Continuous ping test A continuous ping test performs multiple ping tests lasting for the number of minutes specified by the Test Time with a delay time of a specified number of Seconds Between Pings. For example, by default, a continuous ping test would perform a ping test lasting 2 minutes with a delay of 5 seconds between ping tests on an electricity meter.See “Editing continuous ping test settings” on page 64 for details on changing settings.Note: For a continuous ping on a gas module or a two-way water module, the time between pings is 0.8 seconds and cannot be configured.Note: You cannot perform a continuous ping test on a one-way water meter. You can perform a FInd on a one-way water meter. See “One shot ping of a one-way water meter” on page 49 for details.The continuous ping test performs multiple ping tests of an EA_Gas module, REX, REX2 and A3 ALPHA meters and EA_Gatekeeper and EA_Repeater.To perform a continuous ping test:1. From the Ping Test menu, select Continuous.The Continuous Ping Test menu displays.Figure 5-29. Continuous ping menu and settings2. From the Continuous Ping Test menu, you can select to perform one of the following:1) Continuous ping of electric meter2) Continuous ping of gas or two-way water module3) Editing continuous ping test settings

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test56Continuous ping of electric meterTo perform a continuous ping of an electric meter (REX, REX2, EA_Repeater, EA_Gatekeeper or A3 ALPHA node):1. From the Continuous Ping Test menu, select Electric.See “Continuous ping of a gatekeeper” on page 58 for details on pinging a gatekeeper.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.Figure 5-30. Ping test input screen2. Enter the ID of the electric meter to be pinged.3. Click Ping.The ping test occurs and the input screen displays the results as they are received.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test57Figure 5-31. Result of continuous ping of electric meterNote: Only REX2 meters with FW 3.0 or higher return Meter RSSI.The continuous ping test continues displaying the results of each test until the testing is complete.Figure 5-32. Continuous ping test completeThe ping test results display the number the packets received/number of sent, RSSI. For example, 9/10,-23, -19, indicates that nine packets were received out of ten packets sent for an RSSI of -23 dBm and a meter RSSI of -19 dBm.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test584. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Continuous ping of a gatekeeperNote: If you are pinging a gatekeeper with FW v4.x or 5.x, you must turn off encryption in the handheld. See “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details.To perform a continuous ping of an A3 ALPHA gatekeeper:1. From the Continuous Ping Test menu, select Electric.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.2. Check Is GK (Gatekeeper).Figure 5-33. Continuous ping test - gatekeeper3. Enter the ID for the gatekeeper.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test59Figure 5-34. Continuous ping test - gatekeeper4. Click Ping.Figure 5-35. Continuous ping test - gatekeeper5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test60Continuous ping of gas or two-way water moduleTo perform a continuous ping of a gas or two-way water meter’s RF module:1. From the Continuous Ping Test menu, select Gas/Water.EA_Inspector displays the ping test input screen.Figure 5-36. Ping test input screen2. Click Ping.EA_Inspector prompts you to hold a magnet on the gas/water module for 3 seconds. See Figure 5-14 for an illustration on how to hold the magnet on a gas module. See Figure 5-22 for an illustration on how to hold the magnet on a water module.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test61Figure 5-37. Hold magnet promptThe ping test occurs and the input screen displays the results as they are received.Figure 5-38. Result of continuous ping of gas RF moduleThe continuous ping test continues displaying the results of each test until the testing is complete.The ping test results display the number the packets received/number of sent, RSSI. For example, 9/10, -22 indicates that nine packets were received out of ten packets sent for an RSSI of -22 dBm.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test623. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Node to node ping test A node-to-node ping test signals a meter to ping another meter (whether a REX, REX2, EA_Repeater or A3 ALPHA meter). The node-to-node ping test requires the initiator node is a meter registered to a gatekeeper.Note: An A3 ALPHA gatekeeper cannot initiate or respond to a node-to-node ping test.To perform a node-to-node ping test:1. From the Ping Test menu, select Node to Node Ping.EA_Inspector displays the Node to Node Ping dialog.Figure 5-39. Node to node ping input screen2. Enter the ID of the Initiator (the meter initiating the ping).3. Enter the ID of the Responder (the meter to be pinged).4. Click Ping.Initiator ResponderREX meterNote: REX meters FW 4.1 cannot initiatenode to node ping tests.REX2 metergREX meterEA_Repeater A3 ALPHA meter/nodeany meterNote: REX meters FW 4.1 and higher canrespond to node to node ping tests.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test63Figure 5-40. Ping in processEA_Inspector displays the results of the node-to-node ping including the number of packets sent and the RSSI as a range of 0 to 7 where 0 indicates no signal and 1 indicates the best (or maximum) RSSI and 7 indicates the worst RSSI. See “About ping tests” on page 35 for details on RSSI and dBm range represented by the node-to-node ping results.Figure 5-41. Successful node-to-node ping5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test64EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Editing continuous pingtest settingsEA_Inspector allows you to configure the following continuous ping test settings:• Ping packet repeats• Test time (in minutes)• Seconds between Pings (applies to electricity meters only)See “About ping tests” on page 35 for details about RSSI and signal strength.To change ping test settings:1. From the Continuous Ping Test menu, select Edit Ping Settings.EA_Inspector displays the Ping Settings dialog.Figure 5-42. Edit continuous ping test settings2. Edit the settings as needed:• Ping Packet Repeats - the number of additional packets transmitted at different frequencies within the 900 MHz unlicensed bandFor example, if packet repeats is set to the default of 2, a total of 3 packets (1 packet plus an additional 2 packets) would be send over each of 3 different frequencies in the 900 MHz band.• Test Time (in minutes) - the duration time (in minutes) of the ping test• Seconds between Pings - the delay time (in seconds) between ping tests; applies to electricity meters onlyNote: For a continuous ping on a gas module, the time between pings is 0.8 seconds and cannot be configured.3. Click Save to save your changes.You are ready to perform a continuous ping test using the changed settings.

EA_Inspector User GuidePerforming a ping test65

6LOCATING A NODEAbout locating nodes EA_Inspector is capable of locating registered and unregistered REX, REX2 and A3 ALPHA node electricity meters.Note: Elster recommends disabling EA_Inspector encryption before locating a registered or unregistered node, especially utilities supporting both unencrypted and encrypted LAN communications. See “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details on disabling LAN encryption.Note: Gas and water modules are battery operated devices that remain in a sleeping state until they are awakened (by magnet swipe for one-way modules or by receiving a magnet swipe or a wake up signal (v3.x modules) for two-way modules). They cannot be located using the Registered Node or Unregistered Node Locator functions.Accessing node locationmenuTo access the Locate Node test menu:1. From the Main Menu, select RF Troubleshooting.Figure 6-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe RF Troubleshooting menu displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node67Figure 6-2. RF Troubleshooting menu2. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select from the following:•Registered node locator•Unregistered node locatorRegistered node locator The Reg Node Locator command allows you to perform the following node locate functions:•Find all IDs•Finding an IDNote: The accelerator key for Find All is <A> and the key for Find ID is <I>.Find all IDsTo find all registered nodes:1. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select Reg Node Locator.2. Select Find All.EA_Inspector commands all registered nodes to respond.

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node68Figure 6-3. Find All nodesFigure 6-4. Find all registered nodes resultsEA_Inspector displays a listing of registered nodes including the following information:Item DescriptionID Indicates the Serial Number or the LAN ID of the registered node (depending on user privileges).

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node693. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Finding an IDThis function works on REX, REX2, EA_Repeater and A3 ALPHA node meters. See “User privileges” on page 31 for an explanation for using either Serial Number or LAN ID.To find a specific registered node:1. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select Reg Node Locator.2. Enter the ID (Serial Number) or LAN ID of the node to be found.3. Select Find ID.EA_Inspector commands the registered node to respond.Figure 6-5. Find an IDNode Level Indicates the node level from the registered gatekeeper of the pinged meter. For example, a node level of 2 indicates that the pinged meter communicates with its registered gatekeeper through one repeater meter.Gatekeeper Indicates the pinged meter’s registered gatekeeper.RSSI Indicates the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the ping test. For example, -22 indicates an RSSI of -22 dBm.Item DescriptionUse LAN ID unchecked Use LAN ID checked

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node70Note: To use the LAN ID to ping devices, you must have Allow LAN ID privilege (see EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details) as well as Use LAN ID enabled on the handheld (see “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171 for details. To use the meter’s serial number to ping devices, your system administrator must download EA_MS meter ID (marriage data) file from EA_MS and synchronize the file to the handheld. Figure 6-6. Finding an ID

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node71Figure 6-7. Find completedEA_Inspector displays the information of the registered node:4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Unregistered nodelocatorEA_Inspector provides the Unregistered Node Locator function to find REX, REX2 and A3 ALPHA meters and EA_Repeaters that are not registered to a gatekeeper. Item DescriptionID Indicates the ID (Serial Number) or LAN ID of the registered node.Node Level Indicates the node level from the registered gatekeeper of the pinged meter. For example, a node level of 2 indicates that the pinged meter communicates with its registered gatekeeper through one repeater meter.Gatekeeper Indicates the pinged meter’s registered gatekeeper.RSSI Indicates the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the ping test. For example, -22 indicates an RSSI of -22 dBm.

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node72Figure 6-8. Finding an unregistered nodeTo find an unregistered node:1. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select Unreg Node Locator.EA_Inspector displays the Unreg Node Locator dialog.Figure 6-9. Finding unregistered nodes2. To find unregistered nodes within range of the handheld’s RF card, click Find All.EA_Inspector pings to find unregistered nodes.

EA_Inspector User GuideLocating a node73Any unregistered nodes that hear the command will return their IDs. Figure 6-10. Unregistered nodes found3. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

7READING METER DATAThe Read Meter Data command allows you to read TOU and demand data from an electricity meter. The meter data is then transferred into EA_Inspector Manager. Once in EA_Inspector Manager, EA_Inspector Manager posts the collected meter data to a pre-defined location in an AMRDEF format file (the same file type as used by EA_MS to deliver meter data). This method of obtaining meter data provides a mechanism for by-passing any gatekeeper or WAN problems that may impact the delivery of billing data. Accessing Read MeterData menuNote: You must have Read Billing privilege to read previous period data. Billing data is not shown in EA_Inspector. Instead, EA_Inspector displays the success of the read and the data stored for download. To see the current reading on a meter, use the One shot ping test.To access the Read Meter Data menu:1. From the Main Menu, select Read Meter Data.Figure 7-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe Read Meter Data menu displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideReading meter data75Figure 7-2. Read Meter Data menuYou can read the following data:•Current data collected (since the last demand reset)•Previous data collected (prior to the last demand reset)Note: A demand reset is not automatically performed. If you are reading meter data for the purpose of billing, Elster recommends performing a demand reset prior to reading previous period data.Reading previous perioddataNote: If you are reading meter data for the purpose of billing, Elster recommends performing a demand reset prior to reading previous period data.To read previous period data from a meter:1. From the Read Meter Data menu, select Read Previous Data.The Read Previous Data input screen displays.2. Enter the LAN ID for the meter you want to read.3. Click Read.EA_Inspector reads the previous period data. To view the meter data, synchronize the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager and EA_Inspector Manager will generate an AMRDEF XML file suitable for importing into EA_MS or other management system.

EA_Inspector User GuideReading meter data76Figure 7-3. Read previous data input screen4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Reading current perioddataTo read current period data from a meter:1. From the Read Meter Data menu, select Read Current Data.The Read Current Data input screen displays.Figure 7-4. Read current data input screen

EA_Inspector User GuideReading meter data772. Enter the LAN ID for the meter you want to read.3. Click Read.4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

8GAS/WATER COMMSAbout gas and watercommunicationEA_Inspector allows you to read gas and water communication information from electricity devices (REX2 or A3 ALPHA nodes) or from gas or water devices. These data identify the members of the module’s communications table (that is, the specific repeaters that the gas and water modules are using to transmit their data). The communications tables are dynamic and adjust to network conditions and the success of the periodic transmission sessions.EA_Inspector also allows you to query an electric meter or node about what devices are its “children”: the identity of the modules it communicates with is available from the meter itself. These meters keep a corresponding communications table with the identity of the water and/or gas modules it regularly communicates with.Accessing Gas/WaterComms menuTo access the Gas/Water Comms menu:1. From the Main Menu, select RF Troubleshooting.Figure 8-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe RF Troubleshooting menu displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideGas/Water Comms79Figure 8-2. RF Troubleshooting menu2. From the RF Troubleshooting menu, select Gas/Water Comms.The Gas/Water Comms Info menu displays.Figure 8-3. Gas/Water Comms InfoThe Gas/Water Comms Info menu allows you to read gas and water communication information from either of the following devices:•an electric device •a gas/water device

EA_Inspector User GuideGas/Water Comms80Reading gas/watercomm info from anelectric deviceTo read gas or water communication information from an electric device:1. From the Gas/Water Comms Info menu, select Read from Electric.2. Enter the ID for the electric device (REX2 meter or A3 ALPHA node).3. Click Read.The display lists the gas and water IDs for meters communicating through the specified electric device.If you receive a communication error or warning message, see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.Figure 8-4. Gas/Water Comms Info - electric deviceFigure 8-5. Gas/Water Comms Info - error messageno associated gas or water devicesassociated gas and water devices

EA_Inspector User GuideGas/Water Comms814. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Reading gas/watercomm info from a gas/water deviceTo read gas or water communication information from a gas or two-way water device:1. From the Gas/Water Comms Info menu, select Read from Gas/Water.2. Click Read.The display lists the ID for the electric device through which the specified gas or water device communicates.Figure 8-6. Gas/Water Comms Info3. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

9DISCONNECTING AND RECONNECTING METERSAbout disconnecting andreconnecting electricitymetersThe EA_Inspector handheld allows authorized users to disconnect and reconnect registered and unregistered REX and REX2 meters that have the service control switch installed. Additionally, EA_Inspector also allows users to disconnect and reconnect A3 ALPHA meters equipped with the internal polyphase service control switch .Refer to PG42-1015, REX2 meter with service control switch, and PG42-1007, REX meter with service control switch, for details on operating the service control switch.REX meter service control switch statusA REX meter displays the following service control switch status codes on the meter LCD:•F10000 - no load side voltage present when switch is supposedly closed•F00100 - load side voltage present when switch is open•F00001 - service control switch is openNote: The LCD can display a combination of codes for example, F00101, indicating the service control switch is open and load side voltage is present.REX2 meter service control switch statusTo indicate the status of the service control switch, a REX2 meter displays the following icons on the meter LCD below the display quantity:Figure 9-1. Service control switch status indicatorsswitch open switch closed

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters84Accessing Connect/Disconnect menuTo access the Connect/Disconnect menu:1. From the Main Menu, select Connect/Disconnect.Figure 9-4. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe Connect/Disconnect menu displays.Figure 9-5. Connect/Disconnect menu2. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select from the following:• Load Side Power:•Read Current State •Load Side Voltage Check •Connect •Disconnect

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters85• Secondary Relay:•Read Current State •Open Relay •Close Relay • Gas Valve Control •Read •Open •Close • RF Control •Read Current State •Disable RF (Transmitter) •Enable RF (Transmitter) Reading status of theservice control switchThe handheld allows you to read the status of the REX, REX2 or A3 ALPHA meter’s service control switch. To read the status:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Load Side Power.Figure 9-6. Load Side Power menu1. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.2. Select Read Current State.The handheld displays the status of the meter’s service control switch.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters86Figure 9-7. Load Side Power - connectedThe table below details the possible values for the service control switch:Note: In the REX, REX2 and A3 ALPHA meters, a state change is pending because it is awaiting expiration of the control switch capacitor’s charge time. Note: A service control switch will not connect if voltage is present on the load side of the switch.Value Switch Status Reported as0 Communication Failure Communication failure1 Open Power is disconnected2 Open with close pending Connection is pending3 Open with load side voltage present Power is disconnected with load side voltage present.4 Closed Power is connected5 Closed with open pending Disconnect is pending6 Unregistered REX Meter Connect/disconnect cannot be operated for unregistered REX meterNote: REX2 meters allow switch operationeven when unregistered.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters87Figure 9-8. Communication warningsIf you receive a communication error or warning message [Figure 9-8], see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.Checking load sidevoltageBecause a service control switch will not connect if load side voltage is present. To check the status of load side voltage:1. From the Load Side Power menu, select Load Side Voltage Check.EA_Inspector queries the meter and displays the status of the meter’s load side voltage.Read Current State resultsLoad Side Voltage Check display resultsCommunication failureaa. no response from meter.Communication failurePower is disconnected No load side voltageConnection is pending No load side voltagePower is disconnected with load side voltage presentLoad side voltage is presentPower is connected Power is presentDisconnect is pending Power is presentConnect/Disconnect cannot be operated for unregistered REX meterConnect/Disconnect cannot be operated for unregistered REX meter

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters88Figure 9-9. Load Side Power - voltage presentConnecting an electricitymeterEA_Inspector allows you to connect a REX2 meter regardless of its registration status. However, you can only connect a REX meter that is registered to a gatekeeper.Note: When connecting a REX2 meter after a disconnect, for safety reasons the meter must observe a minimum period of one minute of no load side voltage before performing the connection. After the one minute of no load side voltage, the actual connect operation may take 20 - 30 seconds. Therefore, when doing a connect immediately after a disconnect, you may need to wait up to 1.5 minutes before the connection occurs.Note: For REX meters, a connection operation takes about 4 minutes. However, doing a connection immediately after a disconnection may take 8-10 minutes.To connect a REX or REX2 meter:1. From the Main Menu, select Connect/Disconnect.2. Enter the LAN ID of the meter to be connected.3. From the Load Side Power menu, select Connect - Turn On.Note: After sending a connect or disconnect command, EA_Inspector will check service control switch status. If the status is not as expected, then it waits one second and reads status again until 3 attempts occur without a successful change.EA_Inspector displays the result of the Connect command.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters89Figure 9-10. Power connectedThe data is saved to the activity and result logs automatically.4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Disconnecting anelectricity meterEA_Inspector allows you to disconnect a REX2 meter regardless of its registration status. However, you can only disconnect a REX meter that is registered to a gatekeeper.Note: You must wait at least ten minutes to disconnect a REX meter after you connect it. This ensures the handheld receives the correct status of the disconnect switch.To disconnect a REX or REX2 meter:1. From the Main Menu, select Connect/Disconnect.2. Enter the LAN ID of the meter to be disconnected.3. From the Load Side Power menu, select Disconnect - Turn Off.EA_Inspector prompts you to confirm that you want to disconnect the meter.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters90Figure 9-11. Disconnect input screen4. Click Yes to continue with the Disconnect command.— OR —Click No to cancel the disconnect.Note: After sending a connect or disconnect command, EA_Inspector will check service control switch status. If the status is not as expected, then it waits one second and reads status again until 3 attempts occur without a successful change.EA_Inspector displays the results of the Disconnect command.Figure 9-12. Data saved

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters915. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.The data is saved to the activity and result logs automatically.Reading the state of thesecondary relayThe handheld allows you to read the status of the gREX meter’s secondary relay. To read the status:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Secondary Relay.2. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.3. Select Read Current State.The handheld displays the status of the meter’s secondary relay.Figure 9-13. Current state of the secondary relay4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Connecting a secondaryrelayThe handheld allows you to close, that is, connect, a gREX meter’s secondary relay. To connect a secondary relay:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Secondary Relay.2. Enter the LAN ID of the meter with the relay to be connected.3. From the Secondary Relay menu, select Close Relay.EA_Inspector displays the results of the Close Relay command.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters92Figure 9-14. Connecting power using secondary relay4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Disconnecting asecondary relayThe handheld allows you to open, that is, disconnect, a gREX meter’s secondary relay. To disconnect a secondary relay:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Secondary Relay.2. Enter the LAN ID of the meter with the relay to be disconnected.3. From the Secondary Relay menu, select Open Relay.EA_Inspector prompts you to confirm that you want to disconnect the meter.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters93Figure 9-15. Disconnecting power using secondary relay4. Click Yes to continue with the Open Relay command.— OR —Click No to cancel the disconnect.EA_Inspector displays the results of the Open Relay command.Figure 9-16. Disconnecting power using secondary relay5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters94Controlling a gas valve EA_Inspector 3.6 adds support for the AC-250 RMD (Remote Meter Disconnect). The RMD includes a valve control module (VCM) for opening and closing the gas valve. The gas valve assembly and EnergyAxis module are mounted on and operate Elster’s AC-250 gas meter. Note: The Radix FW950 handheld (Style No. 1C12455G01) should be equipped with an external antenna to perform actions on the AC-250 RMD. The external antenna allows the Radix handheld to issue commands to gas valves up to 900 feet from the handheld.Figure 9-17. Radix FW950 with external antenna (Style No. 1C12455G01)EA_Inspector allows a user to perform the following functions on the gas shut off valve:•read the RF and VCM modules

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters96Figure 9-19. Gas valve control access• EA_Inspector saves an audit log for the results of all Read, Open or Close actions.• EA_Inspector automatically saves detailed information on the gas valve Open or Close actions to the results log file.• EA_Inspector saves detailed information on the gas valve Read action to the results log file only when a user clicks Save.Reading a gas valve’s modulesTo read a gas shut off valve’s RF and VCM modules:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Gas Valve Control.The Gas Valve Control screen displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters97Figure 9-20. Gas valve control privilegeFigure 9-21. Additional gas valve privileges2. If you have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve Serial Number.— OR —If you do not have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve LAN ID.3. Click Read.No Valve Control privilegeValve Control privilegeNo Valve S/N ModeValve S/N Mode

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters98Figure 9-22. Read resultsEA_Inspector displays the following information:Item DescriptionVCM Version Indicates the firmware version of the AC-250 RMD valve control module.Valve Status Indicates the state of the gas valve - Open or Closed.Number of OP Indicates the number of valve opening and closing operations performed by the VCM.Alarm Lists alarms reported by the RF module:RF module• RESET_ERROR• BATTERY_LOW (voltage < 3.0V)• BATTERY_ALARM (voltage < 2.8V)• MODULE_ERROR• OP_MALFN (optical sensor malfunction)Error Lists errors reported by the RF module:RF module

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters994. Click Save to have EA_Inspector save detailed information on the gas valve control to the result log file.Battery alarmNote: Battery status will be checked automatically before opening or closing the gas valve. If the battery status is BATTERY_ALARM, the action for opening or closing valve will be cancelled.Figure 9-23. Battery alarmHardware failure detectedIf EA_Inspector detects a hardware failure, contact Elster EnergyAxis Support. • EEPROM_ERROR• CRC_ERROR • CONFIG_ERROR • SERIAL_FLASH_ERROR • AP_ERR: Application Mode VCM Error Processing Request• AP_SNS: Application Mode Service Not Supported• AP_ONP: Application Mode Operation Not Possible• AP_IAR: Application Mode Inappropriate Action Requested• BL_ERR: Bootloader Mode VCM Error Processing Request• BL_FWE: Bootloader Flash Write Error• BL_ONP: Bootloader Mode Operation Not Possible• BL_IAR: Bootloader Mode Inappropriate Action Requested• FRAME: Framing Error• TIMEOUT1: No Bits Received• TIMEOUT2: Transmission Died Mid-stream• START_BIT: No Start Bit• STOP_BIT: No Stop Bit• PARITY: Parity Error• BAD_CRC: Bad CRC• MSG_LEN: Invalid Message LengthStatus Indicates the status of the activity: Passed or Failed.Item Description

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters100Figure 9-24. Hardware failure detected• Click OK to acknowledge the message.Note: The Valve Status field is for historical reference only. When the Read command is initiated, EA_Inspector reports the last known state of the valve. To determine the true current state of the valve, a valve movement must be performed. If the Valve Status reports Open, the user can send an Open command to confirm that the valve is indeed Open. If the Valve Status reports Closed, the user can send a Close command to confirm that the valve is indeed Closed. Opening a gas valveOpening a gas valve turns on gas service. After opening a gas valve, pilot lights on gas-operated devices and appliances must be checked that they are lit. Be sure you have access to all gas-operated devices before performing the Open command.To open a gas shut off valve:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Gas Valve Control.The Gas Valve Control screen displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters101Figure 9-25. Gas valve control privilege2. If you have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve Serial Number.— OR —If you do not have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve LAN ID.3. Click Open.4. If you have the PIN Challenge privilege:a. Enter the last five digits of the RF module’s LAN ID (printed on the RMD label) as a PIN.b. Click OK.No Valve S/N Mode privilegeValve S/N Mode privilege

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters102Figure 9-26. Opening valve - PIN challengeEA_Inspector prompts you to confirm to open the gas shut off valve.Figure 9-27. Confirm valve openingNote: EA_Inspector checks the battery status before opening or closing a gas valve. If a battery alarm occurs, the action for opening or closing the valve is cancelled.5. To continue with opening the gas valve, click Yes.— OR —Click No to cancel the open command and return to the prior screen.Valve S/N Mode andPIN ChallengeValve S/N Mode andNo PIN Challenge

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters103After opening the gas shut off valve, EA_Inspector displays the result of the action. Figure 9-28. Open valve results6. Click Save only to save a note to the result log or to collect GPS data.Closing a gas valveClosing a gas valve turns off gas service. To close a gas shut off valve:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select Gas Valve Control.The Gas Valve Control screen displays.Figure 9-29. Gas valve control privilegeNo Valve S/N Mode privilegeValve S/N Mode privilege

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters1042. If you have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve Serial Number.— OR —If you do not have the Valve S/N Mode privilege, enter the gas valve LAN ID.3. Click Close.4. If you have the PIN Challenge privilege:a. Enter the last five digits of the RF module’s LAN ID (printed on the RMD label) as a PIN.b. Click OK.Note: EA_Inspector checks the battery status before opening or closing a gas valve. If a battery alarm occurs, the action for opening or closing the valve is cancelled.EA_Inspector prompts you to confirm to close the gas shut off valve.Figure 9-30. Confirm valve closing5. To continue with closing the gas valve, click Yes.— OR —Click No to cancel the open command and return to the prior screen.After closing the gas shut off valve, EA_Inspector displays the result of the action.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters105Figure 9-31. Close valve result6. Click Save only to save a note to the result log or to collect GPS data.Controlling a meter’s RFtransmitterEA_Inspector 3.6 adds support for controlling the radio transmitter of the following devices:• REX2 meters (FW v2.0 and higher)• gREX meters (FW v2.0 and higher)Note: REX2 and gREX meters with FW v2.x will execute the disable or enable command at midnight.• A3 ALPHA meters equipped with EA_NIC (FW v3.0 and higher)Note: REX and REX2 meters FW v1.x do NOT support enabling or disabling the RF transmitter.EA_Inspector allows a user to perform the following functions on the radio transmitter:•read the current state of the transmitter •disable the transmitter •enable the transmitter EA_Inspector saves an audit log for the results of all RF control operations (Read, Disable, and Enable).EA_Inspector automatically saves detailed information on the RF control (Read, Disable, and Enable) to the results log file.Additionally, you can click Save to save notes into the results log or collect GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters106Reading the current state of an RF transmitterTo read the current state of the RF transmitter:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select RF Control.The RF Control screen displays.Figure 9-32. RF Control screen2. Enter the LAN ID for the module.3. Click Read Current State.Figure 9-33. Reading the current stateThe screen displays the current state of the module’s radio.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters107Disabling an RF transmitterTo disable the RF transmitter in a device:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select RF Control.The RF Control screen displays.2. Enter the LAN ID for the module.3. Click Disable RF.Figure 9-34. Disabling RF transmitterThe screen displays the result of the action (that is, successful or failed).Enabling an RF transmitterTo enable the RF transmitter:1. From the Connect/Disconnect menu, select RF Control.The RF Control screen displays.2. Enter the LAN ID for the module.3. Click Enable RF.

EA_Inspector User GuideDisconnecting and reconnecting meters108Figure 9-35. Enabling RF transmitterThe screen displays the result of the action (that is, successful or failed).

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware111Figure 10-1. Exiting EA_Inspector2. Click Yes to exit.3. At the desktop, click the EA_Inspector icon to restart the software and begin updating the firmware.Figure 10-2. Confirm update4. Click Yes to begin updating the handheld’s EA_NIC firmware. The update begins.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware112Figure 10-3. Update in progressWhen the update is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message.Figure 10-4. Update complete5. Click OK to finish the update.Upgrading a gas orwater module’s firmwareNote: Before you can upgrade firmware, files must be downloaded to the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager. See the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware113To upgrade a gas or water module’s firmware:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.Figure 10-5. EA_Inspector Main Menu screenEA_Inspector displays the Configure Meter screen.Figure 10-6. Configure Meter screen2. Select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade input screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware114Figure 10-7. Firmware upgrade input screen3. To upgrade firmware in a gas or water meter’s radio/application or valve control module using walk-by or drive-by access, check WBDB.• If WBDB is unchecked, EA_Inspector displays a message prompting you to use a magnet to awaken the RF module.• If WBDB is checked, you must enter the module’s serial number or LAN ID to allow EA_Inspector to broadcast a wake-up tone to the module.4. From the drop list, select to Gas/Water.5. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.6. Click Go to upgrading the module’s firmware.a. If firmware files are not located on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a notice prompting you to get firmware files from EA_Inspector Manager.Figure 10-8. Firmware files unavailable

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware115b. Click OK to acknowledge the message.If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the firmware version.c. Select the appropriate firmware image from the Firmware List.Figure 10-9. Multiple firmware versions foundd. Click OK.EA_Inspector begins upgrading the module’s firmware.Figure 10-10. Loading firmware upgrade7. For gas modules, hold the magnet to the module as detailed in Figure 5-14 on page 45. For water modules, hold the magnet to the module as detailed in Figure 5-25 and Figure 5-22 on page 53.EA_Inspector displays the result of the upgrade.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware116Figure 10-11. Successful firmware upgradeThe firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Upgrading a gas meter’s RMD firmwareTo upgrade the AC-250 Remote Meter Disconnect (RMD) firmware in the gas meter’s control valve:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.EA_Inspector displays the Configure Meter screen.2. Select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade input screen.3. From the drop list, select Gas/Water.4. To upgrade firmware in a gas or water meter’s radio/application or valve control module using walk-by or drive-by access, check WBDB.• If WBDB is unchecked, EA_Inspector displays a message prompting you to use a magnet to awaken the RF module.• If WBDB is checked, you must enter the module’s serial number or LAN ID to allow EA_Inspector to broadcast a wake-up tone to the module.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware117Figure 10-12. Upgrading valve control module5. Select Valve Control Module.6. Enter the LAN ID for the control module.7. Click Go.If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the firmware version.Figure 10-13. Firmware List8. Select the appropriate firmware image from the Firmware List.9. Click OK.EA_Inspector begins upgrading the module’s firmware.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware118Figure 10-14. Loading the firmware imageAfter the firmware is upgraded, EA_Inspector displays the results of the operation.Figure 10-15. Upgrade results10.To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 11. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Note: After a successful Valve Control Module firmware upgrade, let the module initialize by waiting at least three minutes before attempting to perform any gas valve commands such as read, open, or close.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware119Upgrading a meter’sEA_NIC radio firmwareNote: This function applies to REX2 or A3 ALPHA meters equipped with the EA_NIC network interface card.To upgrade a meter’s EA_NIC radio firmware:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.Figure 10-16. EA_Inspector Main MenuEA_Inspector displays the Configure Meter screen.Figure 10-17. Configure Meter screen2. Select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade input screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware120Figure 10-18. Upgrading a meter’s radio firmware3. Select to upgrade Electricity.4. Select to upgrade the meter’s Radio.5. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.6. Click Go to begin the upgrade process.EA_Inspector displays a list of the firmware versions available on the handheld:• If upgrade files are not available on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a message.• Obtain the files by synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager.• If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the appropriate firmware version.Figure 10-19. Firmware List

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware121a. Select the proper firmware and click OK.EA_Inspector begin upgrading the meter’s radio firmware.Figure 10-20. Loading firmwareFigure 10-21. Upgrade successfulAfter the upgrade is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message indicating the upgrade was successful.The firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 7. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 8. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware122Upgrading a REX2meter’s firmwareTo upgrade a REX2 meter’s firmware:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.Figure 10-22. EA_Inspector Main MenuEA_Inspector displays the Configure Meter screen.Figure 10-23. Configure Meter screen2. Select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade input screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware123Figure 10-24. Upgrading a meter’s firmware3. Select to upgrade REX2 Application.4. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.5. Click Go to begin the upgrade process.EA_Inspector displays a list of the firmware versions available on the handheld:• If upgrade files are not available on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a message.• Obtain the files by synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager.• If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the appropriate firmware version.Figure 10-25. Multiple firmware versions found

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware124a. Click OK.EA_Inspector begin upgrading the meter’s firmware.Figure 10-26. Loading firmwareAfter the upgrade is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message indicating the upgrade was successful.Figure 10-27. Upgrade successfulThe firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 6. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 7. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware125Upgrading an A3 ALPHAmeter’s firmwareTo upgrade an A3 ALPHA meter’s firmware:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.Figure 10-28. EA_Inspector Main MenuEA_Inspector displays the Configure Meter screen.Figure 10-29. Configure Meter screen2. Select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade input screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware126Figure 10-30. Upgrading a meter’s firmware3. Select to upgrade A3 NIC Application.4. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.5. Click Go to begin the upgrade process.EA_Inspector displays a list of the firmware versions available on the handheld:• If upgrade files are not available on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a message.• Obtain the files by synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector Manager.• If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the appropriate firmware version.Figure 10-31. Multiple firmware versions found

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware127a. Click OK.EA_Inspector begin upgrading the meter’s firmware.Figure 10-32. Loading firmwareAfter the upgrade is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message indicating the upgrade was successful.Figure 10-33. Upgrade successfulThe firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 6. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 7. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware128Upgrading 900 MHzHAN devicesUpgrading a 900 MHz HAN device’s radioTo upgrade the radio firmware in a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the Main Menu, select Home Area Network.EA_Inspector displays the Home Area Network screen.Figure 10-34. Home Area Network screen2. From the Home Area Network, select 900 MHz HAN.EA_Inspector displays the 900 MHz HAN screen.Figure 10-35. 900 MHz HAN screen3. From the 900 MHz HAN, select Configure.EA_Inspector displays the Config 900 MHz HAN screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware129Figure 10-36. Config 900 MHz HAN screen4. From the Config 900 MHz HAN, select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade screen.Figure 10-37. Firmware Upgrade screen5. To upgrade the firmware in the device’s radio, select Radio.6. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.7. Click Go to begin the upgrade process.EA_Inspector displays a list of the firmware versions available on the handheld:• If upgrade files are not available on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a message.• Obtain the files by synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware130Manager.• If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the appropriate firmware version.Figure 10-38. Firmware Lista. Click OK.EA_Inspector begin upgrading the firmware.Figure 10-39. Loading firmwareAfter the upgrade is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message indicating the upgrade was successful.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware131Figure 10-40. Upgrade completeThe firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Upgrading a 900 MHz HAN device firmwareTo upgrade the firmware in a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the Main Menu, select Home Area Network.EA_Inspector displays the Home Area Network screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware132Figure 10-41. Home Area Network screen2. From the Home Area Network, select 900 MHz HAN.EA_Inspector displays the 900 MHz HAN screen.Figure 10-42. 900 MHz HAN screen3. From the 900 MHz HAN, select Configure.EA_Inspector displays the Config 900 MHz HAN screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware133Figure 10-43. Config 900 MHz HAN screen4. From the Config 900 MHz HAN, select Firmware Upgrade.EA_Inspector displays the Firmware Upgrade screen.Figure 10-44. Firmware Upgrade screen5. To upgrade the firmware in the device, select Application.6. Enter the LAN ID of the meter.7. Click Go to begin the upgrade process.EA_Inspector displays a list of the firmware versions available on the handheld:• If upgrade files are not available on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a message.• Obtain the files by synchronizing the handheld using EA_Inspector

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware134Manager.• If multiple firmware files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the appropriate firmware version.Figure 10-45. Firmware Lista. Click OK.EA_Inspector begin upgrading the firmware.Figure 10-46. Loading firmwareAfter the upgrade is complete, EA_Inspector displays a message indicating the upgrade was successful.

EA_Inspector User GuideUpgrading firmware135Figure 10-47. Upgrade completeThe firmware upgrade results are saved automatically to a log data file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed or see “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

11 CONFIGURING METERSAbout HAN broadcasts Certain REX and REX2 meters may be home area network enabled using an EA_HAN network interface card (NIC). The meter communicates to the NIC relaying information such as consumption. The NIC uses the HAN radio to communicate with a variety of home area devices such as in home displays, programmable thermostats, etc. EA_Inspector allows you to turn the REX meter communication to the NIC on and off as well as check the status of the communication.Note: Meters that support HAN are REX meters Firmware version 4.1 and REX2 meters Firmware versions 2.x and higher.Accessing HANBroadcast menuTo access the HAN Broadcast menu:1. From the Main Menu, select Configure Meter.Figure 11-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe Configure Meter menu displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters137Figure 11-2. Configure Meter menuThe Configure Meter menu displays the following options:•EA HAN Broadcast •Meter Associations •EA_Water Module •Demand Reset •Firmware Upgrade

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters138Configuring HANBroadcast settingsTo configure EnergyAxis HAN broadcast settings:1. From the Configure Meter menu, select EA HAN Broadcast.Figure 11-3. Configure Meter menuThe EA HAN Broadcast menu displays.Figure 11-4. EA HAN Broadcast menuThe EA HAN Broadcast menu includes the following:•Read Current State •Start - Turn ON •End - Turn OFF

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters139Checking the status ofthe meter’s HANbroadcastTo check the status of a meter’s HAN broadcast:1. From the EA HAN Broadcast menu, enter the LAN ID of the selected meter.Figure 11-5. EA HAN Broadcast menu2. Select Read Current State.If the meter selected supports HAN, the handheld displays the status of the HAN Broadcast.If the selected meter does not support HAN, the handheld displays the message “Broadcast not supported in REX v#.”If you receive a communication error or warning message [Figure 11-8], see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters140Figure 11-6. HAN Broadcast status - ONFigure 11-7. HAN Broadcast status

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters142Figure 11-9. Turn OFF BroadcastFigure 11-10. HAN Broadcast - OFFIf the selected meter does not support HAN, the handheld displays the message “Broadcast not supported in REX v#.”If you receive a communication error or warning message [Figure 11-8], see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.3. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters143EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Turning on the meter’sbroadcastNote: You must have Program privilege to turn on a meter’s broadcast.To turn on a meter’s HAN broadcast:1. From the EA HAN Broadcast menu, enter the ID of the selected meter.2. Select Start - Turn ON.Figure 11-11. Turn ON Broadcast

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters144Figure 11-12. HAN Broadcast - ONIf the selected meter does not support HAN, the handheld displays the message “Broadcast not supported in REX v#.”If you receive a communication error or warning message [Figure 11-8], see “Communication mode errors and warning messages” on page 177 for details on troubleshooting communication problems.3. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Setting meterassociationsNote: You must have Program privilege to use the Set function.The Meter Associations menu allows you to write an electric meter association into an EA_Gas or two-way EA_Water 2.0 module. 1. From the Configure Meter menu, select Meter Associations.The Meter Associations dialog displays.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters145Figure 11-13. Meter Associations2. Click Find to locate the EA_Gas or EA_Water module ID.The display lists the EA_Gas or EA_Water module and the programmed values including the current electric meter association if one has been programmed into the module.Figure 11-14. Find Electric Node3. To set the electric meter association, enter the Electric Node ID.without Program privilegewith Program privilegewithout Program privilegewith Program privilege

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters146Figure 11-15. Setting meter associations4. Click Set. The electric meter ID is written to the module.5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Configuring watermodule leak settingsNote: EA_Water Module leak settings apply to EA_Water 2.0 modules.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters147To configure an EA_Water module’s leak settings:1. From the Configure Meter menu, select EA_Water Module.Figure 11-16. Water Leak Settings input form2. Click Read to locate the water module and retrieve its current leak settings.EA_Inspector displays the module’s current leak settings.Figure 11-17. Water module’s leak settings3. Edit the settings as needed:a. Check to turn on High Leak Alarm.Uncheck to turn off High Leak Alarm.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters148b. Enter the Over Limit Threshold (range from 0 to 65535).The Over Limit Threshold triggers off the module’s interval reading. The value entered here would reflect the maximum (hourly) interval reading allowed before triggering this alarm. Sometimes this is referred to as a burst alarm or a broken pipe alarm.c. Enter the Leak Zero Intervals (must be less than or equal to Leak Window Intervals). Leak Zero Intervals is a low-level leak detection. This leak detection watches for a specified number of zero-consumption intervals over a specified period of time called the leak window. Leak Zero Intervals are the minimum number of zero intervals required before setting the leak flag.d. Enter the Leak Window Intervals (range from 0 to 96). The number of intervals in a leak window.Note: The High Leak Alarm will be disabled if the Over Limit Threshold is set to all zeros.4. Click Set to configure the module with the changed settings.Figure 11-18. Setting leak settings5. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Performing a demandreset on an electricitymeterNote: The handheld user must have Billing Read privilege to perform a Demand Reset on an electricity meter. Refer to the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring meters149To perform a demand reset on an electricity meter:1. From the Configure Meter menu, select Demand Reset.2. Enter the LAN ID of the electricity meter.3. Click Reset.EA_Inspector commands the meter to perform a demand reset and displays the results of the command.Figure 11-19. Demand reset results4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.

12 MANAGING HOME AREA NETWORK DEVICESCertain REX and REX2 meters may be home area network enabled using a ZigBee network interface card (ZigBee NIC) or a 900 MHz HAN NIC. The meter communicates to the ZigBee NIC relaying information such as consumption. The ZigBee NIC uses the HAN radio to communicate with a variety of home area devices such as in home displays, programmable thermostats, etc. EA_Inspector allows you to perform the following commands on a ZigBee NIC:•View Devices •HAN NIC Info Note: Meters that support ZigBee NIC are REX2 meters with firmware versions 2.x and higher.Within the HAN menu items, once a user enters a Serial Number or LAN ID, that number or LAN ID will be saved and reshown on each HAN screen. If the user exits the HAN menu below and returns to the main menu, the Serial Number or LAN ID will be reset to blank.HAN device-related screens show the device numbers as the number returned from the ZigBee NIC (in the range of 0 to 7).EA_Inspector also allows you to perform the following commands on a 900 MHz HAN device:•Commission •Ping •Configure •Decommission Note: You must have Program 900 MHz HAN privileges to access the Configure command.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices151Accessing Home AreaNetwork menuTo access the Home Area Network menu:1. From the Main Menu, select Home Area Network.Figure 12-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuThe Home Area Network menu displays.Figure 12-2. Home Area Network screen2. Select the device type:a. ZigBee HAN b. 900 MHz HAN

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices152ZigBee HAN devicecommandsThe ZigBee HAN menu allows you to perform the following actions on a ZigBee device:•View Devices •HAN NIC Info Figure 12-3. ZigBee HAN menuView devicesTo view a HAN device:1. From the ZigBee HAN menu, select View Devices.Figure 12-4. View HAN Devices screen2. Enter the LAN ID or SN of the meter with HAN devices.3. Click View.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices153A listing of HAN devices associated with the specified LAN ID.Figure 12-5. HAN Device listingThe device number and name for each HAN device associated with the meter is displayed.4. Select a device in the list box and click More to see more details about the device.Figure 12-6. HAN device - More details5. Click Cancel to return to the listing.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices154Viewing HAN NIC informationYou can use EA_Inspector to read HAN device number (0 - 255) and to view information about the ZigBee NIC. Note: ZigBee uses a time called UTC time in a ZigBee time cluster which is the count in seconds from January 1, 2000. 1. To view HAN NIC information, from the ZigBee HAN screen, click HAN NIC Info.2. Enter the LAN ID or the SN (serial number) for the meter the HAN device is associated.3. Click Read.The HAN NIC Info displays.Figure 12-7. HAN NIC Info screen4. Click Save to save the results to a file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.900 MHz HAN devices The 900 MHz HAN menu allows you to perform the following actions on a 900 MHz HAN device:•Commission •Ping •Configure •Decommission Note: You must have Program 900 MHz HAN privileges to access the Configure menu.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices155Figure 12-8. 900 MHz HAN menuCommissioning a 900 MHz deviceNote: You must have Program 900 MHz HAN privileges to access the Set command.To commission a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Commission.EA_Inspector displays the Commission Device screen.Figure 12-9. Commission Device screenwith Program 900 MHz HANprivilege without Program 900 MHz HANprivilegewith Program 900 MHz HANprivilege without Program 900 MHz HANprivilege

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices1562. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Enter the Activation Code you received from Elster.4. Click Set.Figure 12-10. Commissioning a deviceAfter the commissioning, EA_Inspector displays the status of the command (success or fail).The device ID, Activation Code and the status are automatically saved to the audit log and the results log.Note: Once the 900 MHz HAN device is commissioned, EA_Inspector must use the new UID when performing actions on the 900 MHz HAN device.Reading a 900 MHz HAN deviceTo read a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Commission.EA_Inspector displays the Commission Device screen.2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Read.Incorrect Activation Code entered

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices157Figure 12-11. Reading a commissioned device• If the device is commissioned, EA_Inspector displays the Activation Code for the device.• The status line indicates whether the device is commissioned and whether the device is communicating with the meter to which it was commissioned.The device ID, Activation Code and the status are automatically saved to the audit log and the results log.Pinging a 900 MHz HAN deviceMethod 1 - from the Commission Device screenTo ping a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Commission.EA_Inspector displays the Commission Device screen.2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Ping.EA_Inspector pings the 900 MHz HAN device and displays the communications statistics.device commissionedmeter not present

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices158Figure 12-12. Pinging the device - resultsMethod 2 - from the Ping Device screenTo ping a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Ping.EA_Inspector displays the Ping Device screen.Figure 12-13. Ping Device screen2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Ping.EA_Inspector displays the radio firmware version, the device’s firmware version, and the communications statistics.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices159Figure 12-14. Ping results4. Click Save to save data to the results log file for uploading into EA_Inspector Manager.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. See “Saving notes and GPS data” on page 31 for details on collecting and saving GPS data.Decommissioning a 900 MHz deviceNote: You must have Program 900 MHz HAN privileges to access the Set command.To decommission a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Decommission.EA_Inspector displays the Decommission Device screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices160Figure 12-15. Decommissioning a device2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Set.EA_Inspector displays the result of the command (success or fail).Figure 12-16. Decommissioning a device resultsThe device ID and the status of the decommissioning are automatically saved to the audit log and the results log.with Program 900 MHz HANprivilege without Program 900 MHz HANprivilege

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices161Reading a decommissioned deviceTo read a decommissioned device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN menu, select Decommission.EA_Inspector displays the Decommission Device screen.2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Read.EA_Inspector displays the state of the device.Figure 12-17. Reading a decommissioned deviceThe device ID and the status of the decommissioning are automatically saved to the audit log and the results log.Configuring a 900 MHz deviceNote: All the general, pricing, and messaging parameters files must be created in EA_Inspector Manager, and then sent to the HH during synchronization. Please refer to the EA_Inspector Installation and Administration Guide for directions on how to create the general, pricing, and messaging parameter files in EA_Inspector Manager. Accessing the Config 900 MHz HAN menuTo configure a 900 MHz HAN device:1. From the 900 MHz HAN screen, select Configure.EA_Inspector displays the Config 900 MHz HAN menu.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices162Figure 12-18. Config 900 MHz HAN screenThe Config 900 MHz HAN menu allows you to configure the following the parameters:• General• Pricing• Messaging• Firmware UpgradeConfiguring general parametersTo configure general parameters:1. From the Config 900 MHz HAN menu, select General.If parameter files are not located on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a notice prompting you to get parameter files from EA_Inspector Manager.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices163Figure 12-19. Handheld parameter file missing2. Click OK to acknowledge the message.3. Use EA_Inspector Manager to download the parameter files to the handheld.4. Retry configuring general parameters.If multiple parameter files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the proper file.Figure 12-20. Multiple files found5. Select the appropriate parameter file from the list.6. Enter the LAN ID for device.7. Click Set.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices164EA_Inspector begins configuring general parameters in the 900 MHz HAN device.EA_Inspector displays the result of the configuration.Figure 12-21. Configuration passedEA_Inspector save the results from configuring general parameters and the parameter file name to the audit log and results log automatically. You can view the audit log and results log through EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed.Configuring pricing parametersTo configure pricing parameters:1. From the Config 900 MHz HAN menu, select Pricing.If parameter files are not located on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a notice prompting you to get parameter files from EA_Inspector Manager.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices165Figure 12-22. Handheld parameter file missing2. Click OK to acknowledge the message.3. Use EA_Inspector Manager to download the parameter files to the handheld.4. Retry configuring pricing parameters.If multiple parameter files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the proper file.Figure 12-23. Multiple files found5. Select the appropriate parameter file from the list.6. Enter the LAN ID for the device.7. Click Set.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices166EA_Inspector begins configuring pricing parameters in the 900 MHz HAN device.EA_Inspector displays the result of the configuration.Figure 12-24. Configuration passedEA_Inspector save the results from configuring pricing parameters and the parameter file name to the audit log and results log automatically. You can view the audit log and results log through EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed.Clearing pricing parametersTo clear pricing parameters:1. From the Config 900 MHz HAN menu, select Pricing.2. Enter the LAN ID for the device.3. Click Clear.EA_Inspector displays the results of the command.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices167Figure 12-25. Clearing pricingEA_Inspector save the results from configuring pricing parameters and the parameter file name to the audit log and results log automatically. You can view the audit log and results log through EA_Inspector Manager. 4. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 5. Enter notes as needed.Configuring messaging parametersTo configure messaging parameters:1. From the Config 900 MHz HAN menu, select Messaging.If parameter files are not located on the handheld, EA_Inspector displays a notice prompting you to get parameter files from EA_Inspector Manager.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices168Figure 12-26. Handheld parameter file missing2. Click OK to acknowledge the message.3. Use EA_Inspector Manager to download the parameter files to the handheld.4. Retry configuring messaging parameters.If multiple parameter files are found on the handheld, EA_Inspector prompts you to select the proper file.Figure 12-27. Multiple files found5. Select the appropriate parameter file from the list.6. Enter the LAN ID for the device.7. Click Set.

EA_Inspector User GuideManaging home area network devices169EA_Inspector begins configuring messaging parameters in the 900 MHz HAN device.EA_Inspector displays the result of the configuration.Figure 12-28. Configuration passedEA_Inspector save the results from configuring messaging parameters and the parameter file name to the audit log and results log automatically. You can view the audit log and results log through EA_Inspector Manager. 8. To add notes to the log data file or collect and save GPS data, click Save.EA_Inspector opens a Notes screen. 9. Enter notes as needed.

13 CONFIGURING THE HANDHELDAbout configuring thehandheldUsers can configure a handheld including the following:•Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs•Configuring EA DefaultsNote: Only users with Program privilege can configure a handheld’s Utility ID.Accessing handheldconfiguration menuTo access the HH Configuration menu:1. From the Main Menu, select HH Configuration.Figure 13-1. EA_Inspector Main MenuEA_Inspector displays the HH Configuration menu.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld171Figure 13-2. HH Configuration menu2. The HH Configuration menu allows you to perform the following tasks:1) Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs2) Configuring EA Defaults3) Viewing About EA_Inspector informationConfiguring handheldsettings and utility IDsEA_Inspector allows you to configure the following settings used by the handheld:• handheld ID• performing fast reads• battery warning threshold• using LAN IDsAdditionally, if supported by your utility and you have the appropriate privileges, you can also change utility IDs. Note: For security reasons, Elster limits the range of utility IDs that can be selected on a handheld to a pre-defined (and encrypted) list of customer-specific LAN IDs.To manage handheld settings and utility IDs:1. From the HH Configuration menu, select HH Settings.EA_Inspector displays the HH Settings screen.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld172Figure 13-3. HH settings screen - no utility ID file on handheldFigure 13-4. HH settings - Program privilegewithout Program privilege with Program privilege

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld173Figure 13-5. HH settings screen Note: The settings for the Fast Read and Battery Warning % are only stored in the handheld.2. Change the HH ID for the handheld, if needed.3. Enter the Battery Warning % to receive a low battery warning when the battery reaches the specified level (default is 10%; the min is 10% and the max is 80%).4. Uncheck Fast Read if an extended battery life is necessary.Note: If checked, the handheld’s RF com port is kept open for each RF read. If unchecked, the RF com port is opened and closed for each RF read.5. Check to allow the handheld to Use LAN IDs.If you have Allow LAN ID privilege and the handheld does not have an EA_MS meter ID file and you attempt to disable Use LAN ID, EA_Inspector prompts you to synchronize the handheld with EA_Inspector Manager and keeps Use LAN ID enabled.with Allow LAN ID privilege without Allow LAN ID privilege

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld174Figure 13-6. HH settings screen - disabling Use LAN ID6. Check Encrypted LAN to enable C12.22 encryption over the EA_LAN.EA_Inspector communicates with EA_LAN devices using encryption only. EA_LAN encryption seeds are downloaded to the handheld during synchronization with EA_Inspector Manager.Note: If you are using EA_MS 7.0, you can use the downloaded serial numbers (Use LAN ID is disabled) or if you have Allow LAN ID privilege and you have Use LAN ID enabled on the handheld then you can enter the LAN ID. If you are using MAS 6.2 or earlier, you will need Allow LAN ID privilege and you will have to enable Use LAN ID on the handheld to enter a LAN ID. You cannot enter serial numbers in EA_Inspector if you are using MAS 6.2 or earlier. See the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide for details.7. By default, Elster configures handhelds to support one utility ID, however, if specified, your utility may support multiple utility IDs, select the appropriate utility ID from the drop list.Note: You must have Program privilege to change utility ID settings in the handheld.8. Click Save to save your changes.Note: Changes to the handheld’s configuration will NOT be imported into EA_Inspector Manager during the next device synchronization. Changes to handheld settings made in EA_Inspector will be overwritten by settings from EA_Inspector Manager during the next handheld synchronization. You must duplicate handheld setting changes in EA_Inspector Manager for the changes to be permanent.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld175Configuring EA Defaults EA_Inspector allows all users to set the default values on the handheld.• Packet repeats• Test time (in minutes)• Seconds between PingsTo manage ping test settings:1. From the HH Configuration menu, select EA Defaults.EA_Inspector displays the EA Defaults screen.Figure 13-7. EA Defaults - settings2. Enter the number of Ping Packet Repeats (the number of additional packets transmitted at different frequencies within the 900 MHz unlicensed band; range of 0 to 10 with default of 2).For example, if packet repeats is set to the default of 2, a total of 3 packets (1 packet plus an additional 2 packets) would be sent over 3 different frequencies in the 900 MHz band.3. Enter the Test time (in minutes) (the duration time (in minutes) for a ping test; range of 1 to 10 with default of 2).4. Enter the Seconds between Pings (the number of seconds delay between pings for the continuous ping test; range of 1 to 60 with default of 5; applies to electricity meters only).Note: For a continuous ping on a gas module, the time between pings is 0.8 seconds and cannot be configured.5. Click Save to save your changes.EA_Inspector displays a dialog indicating the settings have been saved.6. Click OK to acknowledge the dialog.You are ready to perform a continuous ping test using the changed settings.

EA_Inspector User GuideConfiguring the handheld176Viewing AboutEA_Inspector informationTo view About EA_Inspector information:1. From the HH Configuration menu, select About.EA_Inspector displays the About EA_Inspector dialog.Figure 13-8. About EA_Inspector screenThe About EA_Inspector screen displays the following information:2. To close the dialog click the Close button in the upper right corner of the dialog or press the <Esc> key.Item DescriptionSoftware Name Indicates you are using EnergyAxis EA_Inspector software.Software Version Indicates the version of EA_Inspector you are using.Firmware Version Indicates the version of firmware the EA_NIC is using.Copyright date and holder Indicates the date and the holder of the copyright for the software.

ATROUBLESHOOTINGGeneral troubleshooting 1. Click on the screen with the stylus if the device keys navigation does not produce expected results.2. Try to reboot the handheld:• Hold down the <R> + <X> + <> keys down simultaneously for several seconds until the screen goes blank.— OR —Refer to the EA_Inspector and EA_Inspector Manager Installation and Administration Guide.Trouble connecting toEA_Inspector Manager1. Make sure the handheld device is correctly seated in the cradle and there is not any contaminated material in between the cradle and handheld's contacts.2. Verify the connection by starting ActiveSync and waiting for the device to synchronize.3. Check if the handheld's LED is glowing either green or red. If not then maybe the AC charger is faulty.Communication modeerrors and warningmessages# HH Message Reason HH Comm. ModeMeter Comm. ModeMeter Response User Action Recommended0 NONE Unencrypted LANAny Meter with Encryption DisabledAOK or Valid Data None1 Meter is out of range or unencrypted. Try again with encryption OFF? (Yes or No)Meter is out of range or is Legacy mode.Encrypted LAN Any Meter RN (no response) Retry action with encryption disabled.2 Action Name + “Failed” (for example, “Find Failed”)Meter is out of range.Unencrypted LANAny Meter RN (no response) Move closer to meter and retry action.3 Meter is encrypted. Retry with encryption ON? (Yes or No)Meter is encrypted.Unencrypted LANEncrypted MeterNON Ping Request05 – Inappropriate Action RequestedRetry action with encryption enabled.

EA_Inspector User GuideTroubleshooting178Verifying encryptedcommunicationsTo verify encrypted communications, you must have access to the following:• REX2 meter configured to require encryption• EA_Inspector with the following:• proper LAN seed downloaded• same utility ID as the REX2 meterTo verify encryption is working:1. Using the procedure described in “Configuring handheld settings and utility IDs” on page 171, uncheck to disable Encrypted LAN.2. Click Save to save the configuration change.Encryption in the handheld is disabled.3. Using the procedure described in “One shot ping of electric meter” on page 39, perform a ping test on the REX2 meter.The handheld displays the radio performance data (packets, RSSI, etc.) but no reading data is displayed.4 LAN Encryption mismatch: please update the handheld seeds with EA_Inspector Manager.LAN Encryption is mismatched between HH and meter.Encrypted LAN Encrypted MeterNON Ping Request1C – Packet Decryption FailedSynchronize handheld with EA_Inspector Manager.5 LAN Encryption mismatch: please update the handheld seeds with EA_Inspector Manager.LAN Encryption is mismatched between HH and meter.Encrypted LAN Meter with Encryption Key but its Encryption Disabled; NON Ping Request1C – Packet Decryption FailedSynchronize handheld with EA_Inspector Manager.6 Warning: Meter is encrypted. Press “E” to retry with encryption.Reading an encrypted meter.Unencrypted LAN Encrypted MeterSingle Ping Request05 – Inappropriate Action RequestedThe meter provides Host/Radio FW versions, packet number, and RSSI regardless of the encryption states and key values. Retry action with encryption enabled.If "E" is pressed, the additional data is provided if the encryption key is a match, otherwise an mismatch error is reported.7 LAN Encryption mismatch: please update the handheld seeds with EA_Inspector Manager.LAN Encryption is mismatched between HH and meter.Encrypted LAN Encrypted MeterSingle Ping Request1C – Packet Decryption FailedSynchronize handheld with EA_Inspector Manager.8 LAN Encryption mismatch: please update the handheld seeds with EA_Inspector Manager. LAN Encryption is mismatched between HH and meter.Encrypted LAN Meter with Encryption Key but its Encryption Disabled; Single Ping Request1C - Packet Decryption FailedSynchronize handheld with EA_Inspector Manager.# HH Message Reason HH Comm. ModeMeter Comm. ModeMeter Response User Action Recommended

EA_Inspector User GuideTroubleshooting179The handheld displays a message Warning: Meter is encrypted. Press “E” to retry with encryption.4. Press <E> to retry the ping using encryption.The handheld retries the ping action with encryption enabled.Note: After the command, the handheld returns to operating in unencrypted mode.Elster contact For EA_NIC error messages or for further information, please contact:Customer SupportElster208 South Rogers LaneRaleigh, NC 27610T +1 800 338 5251 (US toll free)energyaxis.support@us.elster.com

EA_Inspector User GuideTroubleshooting180

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