Building Automation Knowledge Base

Issue MicroNet controller objects have a maximum allowable value of 10.000 Environment   MicroNet Meters VisiSat Xbuilder Vista 5 Cause MicroNet controller objects have a maximum allowable value of 10.000 some meter readings require a greater value. Resolution 1. In VisiSat add two counter objects. Link the Rollover pulse output of the first counter to the Count input of the second Counter object. Fig 1. Counter Object 1 is used for the 0 - 999 part of the meter count. Counter Object 2 is used for the 1000 - 1,000,000 part of the meter count. 2. In the Xenta 731 add a Menta object and program shown below in fig 2 is one example. Fig 2. This Menta code multiplies counter object instance 2 by one thousand and adds the sum with counter object instance 1 giving an output for total meter reading of up to 9,999,999. 3. This then can be added to value, graphic ETC pages.    4.  If you would like to download an example click on your preferred option below. Click here for the VisiSat project. Click here for the Xbuilder project.  Click here for the Vista database. Click here for All three.

Issue InfinityInput configured as counter does not count any pulses. Environment i2 devices B3 devices IOU modules Cause Here are two common reasons why the counter input may not be counting as expected: 1. No accumulation logic used with input. 2. Signal from the count source does not conform to specifications. Resolution 1. No accumulator logic used with input. The value of a counter input is reset to zero at every scan, in order to maintain the count value an accumulation strategy must be used, this can be accomplished via a conversion at the input or by using a PE program to accumulate the count in an InfinityNumeric object. a) Enter the following conversion in the counter input’s conversion field: Value + ElecValue Or b) Use the following logic in a PE program CountAccumulator = CountAccumulator + WaterMeterCount  (Where CountAccumulator is an InfinityNumeric object and WaterMeterCount is the name of the counter input)   2. The signal from the count source (Water meter, Power meter etc) does not have the minimum pulse width required by the input. For example, Infinet 2 devices (i.e. i2687) only support counter signal with a maximum frequency of 4 hertz and a minimum pulse width of 125 milliseconds. The DI8 IOU module has 2 channels that support counts of up to 10Khz with a pulse width as short as 50 microseconds. XPUi modules support counter inputs with a frequency up to 140 Hz and a minimum pulse width of 3.5 milliseconds. Refer to the manual for your count source (Meter) and verify the signal generated by it complies with the requirements of the Continuum hardware. For more information see the attached Infinity Technical Journal article. It describes several ways to reset the counter.   Note: Some meters will put out a pulse with a voltage equal to the supply voltage. In this case add a relay so the controller sees a dry contact per pulse.    

Issue How can I run Windows programs from a workstation plain english program? Environment Cyberstation Plain English Windows programs Cause Launching windows programs from Continuum Resolution Please see this link for information on using the Shell plain english function NOTE A Plain English script can be added to some graphics objects (Plain English Script tab), so for example you could run a batch file (in the continuum directory) from a graphics button using Shell "test.bat"

Issue Dynaview chart values are not correct, when compared with a display done from an index entry. Environment Sigma All versions. Sigma controllers. Dynaview. Cause When a Sigma Dynaview chart is first opened, the initial value recorded. After this first value, all further values are updated on a "Change of value" condition only, this means that if the object tolerance setting is too big, the chart is not updated. Resolution The object tolerance setting is available within the object configuration, so if the chart is not being updated carry out the following. 1 - Close the Dynaview chart. 2 - Reduce the tolerance setting via the Sigma object editor. 3 -  Download the object to the controller. 4 -  Restart the Dynaview chart. Note:  Reducing the tolerance too far, can lead to updates dominating communications resources in the controller. For example; 1.  A temperature object can be set to 0.05 to give an update for every 0.1 degrees. 2 . A change of state programmable object should be set to 0.5 as it will returned true/false statement (equivalent to 1/0). 3. A pressure sensor measuring Pascal’s (100's) may need the tolerance setting higher (e.g. 10) as pressure can change rapidly at higher values.  For globally changing the tolerance values for the Sigma objects a Sigma Tolerance Utility is available, to download it, please Click Here.  

Issue The date and time must be included in the text message. Environment Sigma Micronet Vista BAS2800+ RAM Remote Alarm Manager Cause The basic text messages do not include the alarm date and time, this is a site requirement.. Resolution To change the message format, configure as follows: 1 - Using the RAM Console, select "Configuration" and the required "Action". 2 - Edit the Action, and select "Messages". 3 - Choose the "Advanced" option, and then "Edit Script". 4 - Choose "File" and then "Open File", browse to the location of the script file you want to open. An example script file can be uploaded from here. 5 - The screen capture below shows part of the script editor with the script file opened. This script will provide an alarm message which takes the following form. Message No (This cannot be de-configured), Alarm Priority, Alarm Date / Time, Mnemonic, and Value (i.e. Plant On / Plant Off etc.). The alarm cleared message is slightly different. Message No (This cannot be de-configured), Alarm Date / Time, Mnemonic, and Value (i.e. Plant On / Plant Off etc.).

Issue Shielded twisted pair cable may have been installed in an area of high EMI/RFI, and proper grounding of the shield wire is necessary to make the shield effective. Environment A segment of LON trunk with shielded, twisted-pair cable. Cause Proper grounding helps to avoid DC and 50/60 Hz ground paths from being formed through the shield. Resolution Follow the Guidelines as presented in the Echelon FT 3120/ FT 3150 Smart Transceiver Data Book, page 114, Figure 5.7 "Terminating and grounding Shielded Twisted Pair Cable." Grounding Shielded Twisted Pair Cable When using shielded twisted pair, terminate the twisted pair and ground the cable shield, as shown in Figure 5.7. Figure 5.7 Terminating and Grounding Shielded Twisted Pair Cable The twisted pair is terminated according to the guidelines listed in the previous sections. The cable shield should be grounded using a capacitor to tie the shield to earth ground, and a large-value resistor to bleed off any static charge on the shield. Tie the shield to earth ground through a capacitor, instead of a direct connection, in order to avoid DC and 50/60 Hz ground paths from being formed through the shield. Typical values for Rb and Cc are as follows: Cc = 0.1 µF, 10%, Metalized Polyester, ≥100V Rb = 470kΩ, 1/4W, ±5% The cable shield should be grounded at least once per segment, and preferably at each device.

Warning Potential for Data Loss: The steps detailed in the resolution of this article may result in a loss of critical data if not performed properly. Before beginning these steps, make sure all important data is backed up in the event of data loss. If you are unsure or unfamiliar with any complex steps detailed in this article, please contact Product Support Services for assistance. Issue When setting up Continuum Security levels is there an easy way to set up the different Security Groups? Sites that have upgraded from Infinity SX8000 may require the same security settings. Environment Cyberstation all versions. Cause It can be time consuming and complex setting up multiple user security levels. Resolution In the Workstation you can edit the Security settings to define the access (keys) and blocking (padlocks) for each group against each object class. You can also import/ export these security settings with *.SDF files, attached is a file Default Security V1.sdf that defines a default set of 8 security levels as per the Infinity SX8000: Click here for default security file Administrate Program Configure Enable/Disable Change Values Acknowledge Alarms View Only No Access Click here for a description of each of the above levels (Source: SX8000 Programmer's Guide). To add the "Default Security V1.sdf" file to your Continuum you will need to do as follows, in the bottom right hand corner of your screen there is the Continuum icon, right click on the icon and select Security... then under the Actions tab, right click next to "Access Distribution View" and click import All... then all you do is select the "Default Security V1.sdf" file you have already downloaded and then click open, this will now install the new default security options. Warning! Always make a database backup before attempting to change the security setting so that if a mistake is made you can always revert back to the backup.

Issue Satchwell D?T sensor temperature to resistance Environment Satchwell DOT DRT DDT DWT DST DOS Cause Find the resistance value of a D?T sensor at any temperature in Centigrade. Resolution Referred to Satchwell T type Sensor resistance chart. Click here.

Issue Can't get the a Sigma laptop to communicate with a Sigma controller via the RS-232 connection (Diagnostic Port SK1). Environment Sigma RS-232 Communications Serial Communications Local Communications Service port Cause Configuration error Resolution Use the following check list to confirm correct configuration. On the main Sigma server Create a service server in the main server and ensure the Att.set files are downloaded to the controllers On the laptop Set the C:\Sigma\Data\Sigma.ini file entry RS232 = 1 Set the C:\Sigma\Data\Sigma.ini file entry Commport=1, Baudrate=9600 (Note: ensure the BAS Integrator is not enabled as it also set for Comm port 1 by default) Set the laptop server number the same as service server number in item 1 above (System Setup -General - Server Details). Restart the laptop Sigma server If you are using Sigma 4.05 build 3.42.34 then you need a Hotfix to enable the Sigma serial communications.  Click here for Hotfix 3.42.46.  Later Sigma releases do not require a hotfix. Confirm the RS232 cable wiring is correct and not broken.

Issue How many MicroSmart devices and Microsmart trunks does the Niagara G3 driver ENC-DRV-MS support? Environment ENC-520 Series ENC-DRV-MS Cause Incorrect product data sheet F-27425-3. Resolution ENC-DRV-MS driver supports 124 MicroSmart devices and a maximum of 4 Microsmart trunks. Note ENC-520 product data sheet [F-27425-3] options for ENC-DRV-MS31,MS62,MS93,MS124 are incorrectly shown.

Issue Spare Satchwell valve gland kit & grease, reconditioned 'O' rings and lug nuts options. Satchwell packing kits, Satchwell gland kits, Satchwell stuffing glands. Product Line Field Devices Environment Satchwell valve Gland kits Packing kits Stuffing Gland Part Numbers: 0617-9-410, 0617-9-411, 0617-9-412, 0617-9-413 0618-9-210, 0618-9-510, 0618-9-511, 0618-9-512 0623-9-201 0626-9-203, 0626-9-204, 0626-9-310, 0626-9-311, 0626-9-312, 0626-9-313 0667-9-201 Cause Spare item part numbers Resolution   Valve(size) Part No Description Stock 1/2"…..1" 0626-9-313 LUG NUT AVAILABLE   0626-9-312 LUG NUT AVAILABLE   0617-9-410 RECON KIT "O" RINGS & TOOL AVAILABLE MB 1 1/4" 0617-9-411   AVAILABLE MB 1 1/2" 0617-9-412   TOOL AVAILABLE MB 2" 0617-9-413   AVAILABLE MBF 65mm 0618-9-510   AVAILABLE MBF 80mm 0618-9-511   AVAILABLE MBF 100mm 0618-9-512 RECON KIT "O" RINGS AVAILABLE MEU, FEU & VEU 0623-9-201 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE OBSOLETE MJF 0626-9-203 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE AVAILABLE MZ 1"..2" series 3       VJF       VSF 15..25mm       VZ 0.5" .. 2" series 1 & 2               MZX 0.5" .. 2" 0626-9-204 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE AVAILABLE VZX 0.5" .. 2"               MZ 0.5" .. 2" series 1 0626-9-310 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE AVAILABLE VZ 1" .. 2" series 1               MZF 65 .. 150mm 0626-9-311 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE AVAILABLE VZF 65 .. 150mm series 1               VSF 32 .. 50mm 0667-9-201 REPLACEMENT GLAND KIT & GREASE AVAILABLE VV 0618-9-210 RECONDITIONING KIT AVAILABLE Download the drawing for the MB 0617-9-410 (0.5" to 1") Download the drawing for the MBF 0618-9-511 (80mm) Download the drawing for the MZX 0626-9-204 Download the drawing for the VZ/MZ 0626-9-310

Issue Create a true PWM output from a Xenta programmable controller using a DOPU block in Menta. Environment Menta Cause Menta does not have a built in PWM functionality, so to control a PWM actuator, some additional programming is required to utilize a DOPO block as desired. Resolution Click the image above to download the Menta Macro. Load the macro into the Menta file. The HFB takes a percent signal input and outputs the required values to control a DOPU block, which in turn will pulse the physical DO on the Xenta controller to control a PWM actuator.

Issue The IP address can be entered into a UNC-520 using the Admin Tool but after rebooting or power cycling the device, the IP address is reset back to the factory default. Environment I/A Series (Niagara) R2 UNC-520-2(-N) with serial number greater than 36183  Cause The newer UNC hardware manages stored OS configuration data in a different manner than the older UNC-520 devices.  Because of this change, the factory default operating system has the capability to read, but not permanently change the device IP address. Resolution You must use the Admin Tool Installation Wizard to install the r2.301.527 (or newer) version of the OS and NRE (system software) before you can save any new Ethernet address information to the UNC. Follow the procedure in the UNC-520 installation manual (F-27391) section "Upgrade, License and Configure the Host" to install the OS and NRE system software.  Click here to see the referenced page of the manual.

Issue Exporting/Importing data from taclogdata SQL database tables possibly due to suspected database corruption. Symptoms: 1. Vista is very slow or crashes when retrieving trend charts. 2. Vistas seems to be working slower than usual. Environment SQL Server all editions. SQL management studio. Cause The SQL database is corrupt or the database or tables have been created manually in SQL management studio express and don't have the correct format. Resolution Link to  "Export Import between SQL Tables.pdf"

Issue The modbus RTU communication from the ICP 7188 and the Caterpillar SCM module stops communicating after the genset hand off auto switch has been placed not in auto. Environment ICP 7188 Modbus RTU Caterpillar SCM Module Cause When the Caterpillar genset hand of auto switch is placed not in auto for monthly genset tests or to manually run the generator the SCM module on the generator senses this state change and sends a "wait" command on the modbus network that the ICP 7188's modbus driver can not handle. Resolution There are two resolutions to this problem depending on what version of the modbus driver running in the ICP 7188. If the modbus driver dated 2-16-2001 is being used in the ICP, the only resolution will be to power cycle the ICP after the genset has been placed in "not in auto". This will re-initiate the communication on the modbus network. This modbus driver version does not have the capabilities to handle the 'wait" message from the SCM module. Upgrade to the final modbus build for the ICP 7188 dated 3-4-2005. This driver has the ability to receive the "wait" command from the SCM module on the modbus network. To upgrade the ICP 7188 to the final modbus build, simply place the ICP7040.exe, SP7040.def, and SP7040.exe files from the attached.zip file in the linkterm directory, and redownload the ICP.   NOTE: The ICP7188 is no longer officially supported by Schneider Electric as the gateway device for I/Net integration efforts. The Xenta 913 is the official replacement for the ICP 7188 when doing third party integration to an I/Net system.

Issue I/A Series R2 (Niagara) ibsAsd driver "FATAL: Cannot boot station from sns java.lang.NoClassDefFoundError: tridiumx/serialDriver/services/AsyncEventSource" Environment I/A Series R2 (Niagara) ibsAsd Driver Cause serialDriver Module is missing.  Resolution Use the Admin Tool (Configure Modules Only) and add the serialDriver jar.  Click Here to see document

Issue I cannot logon to an AC256 or AC8 controller. My AC256 Xdriver has stopped communicating with the AC256. Environment AC256 AC256+ AC8 AC8+ Cause Unable to establish communications with an AC256 type controller. Resolution The attached document contains a thorough set of procedures for troubleshooting communication issues between an AC256 controller and a computer that is running a terminal emulator program such as ProComm or HyperTerminal. This requires that the computer have a available serial port or a USB to serial converter.  Troubleshooting AC256+ Comm Issues.doc

Issue How can more than 50 globals be transmitted from a Sigma controller when I have a lot of digital objects states to pass between controllers? Environment Sigma Controller (all) Cause Sigma controllers are limited to 50 broadcast globals. Resolution Up to 16 Sigma Digital objects states can be reference in a single programmable object.  By performing a binary count the various states can be represented by a single analogue value which can then be broadcast as global data. Sigma programmable object MASK command can be used to decode analogue representation of a single analogue value that represents up to 16 digital states (on/off).   For example the value of 901 represents the state of a number of Sigma DI Objects where each bit indicates the on/off.  Hence, this translate to the 16-bit binary value  0000001110000101  where 1 = on and 0 = off To set-up bit masking click here for details. 1.  Create a program object in the transmitting controller that 'binary' counts up to 16 digital objects. 2. In the receiving controller create up to 16 programmable objects to decode the transmitted analogue value.  e.g

Issue SVT Controller will not operate plant under Auto control following Clock replacement. Environment SVT 4201 Optimiser Controller. SVT 4251 Optimiser Controller. Cause Replacement Clock installed in SVT Controller is incompatible due to incorrect Clock specification selection.   Resolution 1. Check SVT Optimiser Controller Specification Number.      Specification Number 588-4-201 = SVT 4201     Specification Number 588-4-251 = SVT 4251   2. Check SVT Clock type.     Analogue or Digital ?   SVT 4201 is Analogue Clock version of SVT Replacement Clock installed should be of Analogue type. Replacement Analogue Clock Specification Number = 561-9-260   SVT 4251 is Digital Clock version of SVT Replacement Clock installed should be of Digital type. Replacement Digital Clock Specification Number = 561-9-261   3.  Replace Clock of incorrect type / specification with Clock of correct type / specification.   Please check the catalog for current equipment

Issue Unable to order MicroNet View SNP I/O Server software. Environment MicroNet View 2.1 add ons Cause With computers being supplied without parallel ports the SNP I/O Server software has now been updated and the requirement for the hardware (dongle) has been removed. PA_00145 Satchwell MicroNet Range Rationalisation details this and other changes to the MicroNet range of software and hardware. Click here to view the document. Resolution The software can now be downloaded from the https://ecobuilding.schneider-electric.com/ If you do not have access to the site you can contact Product Support who will be able to supply the software to you.   Or login to the BBE site and navigate through to it via: - https://ecobuilding.schneider-electric.com/satchwell-micronet/software-and-firmware/software#tab/documents