4
FC-21 Flow Computer
Setup Mode
The setup mode is password protected by means of
a numeric lock out code established by the user. In
addition, a secret, manufacturers numeric unlock
entry sequence is available.
The system also provides a minimum implementation
of an “audit trail” which tracks significant setup
changes to the unit. This feature is increasingly being
found of benefit to users or simply required by
Weights and Measurement Officials in systems used
in commerce, trade, or “custody transfer” applications.
A Worksheet is provided to assist the user in setting
up the instrument. In addition, a software program is
available which runs on a PC using a RS-232 Serial
for connection to the Flow Computer. Illustrative
examples may be down loaded in this manner.
The setup mode has numerous subgrouping of
parameters needed for flow calculations. There is a
well conceived hierarchy to the setup parameter list.
Selections made at the beginning of the setup affect
offerings further down in the lists.
In the setup mode, the flow computer activates the
correct setup variables based on the instrument
configuration, the flow equation, and the hardware
selections made for the compensation transmitter
type, the flow transmitter type, and meter
enhancements (linearization) options selected. All
required setup parameters are enabled. All setup
parameters not required are suppressed.
A help line prompt is provided for each entry. In
addition a help message is available which may be
accessed by depressing the “HELP” key.
In the setup mode selections, several parameters
are required to be input by the operator since these
parameters are blank when the unit is received. The
user will be prompted for these necessary values for
his application. A blank parameter will prevent the
user from entering the run mode and a suitable
warning message will be issued.
Also note that in the setup mode are parameter
selections which have preassigned industry standard
values. The unit will assume these values unless
they are modified by the user.
Most of the process input variables have available a
“default” or emergency value which must be entered.
These are the values that the unit assumes when a
malfunction is determined to have occurred on the
corresponding input.
It is possible to enter in a nominal constant value for
temperature or density, or analog flow inputs by
placing the desired nominal value into both the lo
and hi values. This is also a convenience when
performing bench top tests without simulators.
Maintenance Mode:
The Maintenance Mode of the FC-21 is the Test
and Calibration Mode for the device. This mode
provides a number of specialized utilities required
for factory calibration, instrument checkout on start-
up, and periodic calibration documentation.
A password is required to gain access to this
specialized mode of operation. Normally quality,
calibration, and maintenance personnel will find
this mode of operation very useful. It is also useful
for factory testing.
Many of these tests may be used during start-up
of a new system. Inputs signals may be read, and
output signals may be exercised to verify the
electrical interconnects before the entire system
is put on line.
The following action items may be performed in
the Maintenance Mode:
Print Calibration/Maintenance Report
Examine Audit Trail
Perform Keypad Checkout
Perform Display Checkout
Perform Pulse Input Checkout
Perform Pulse Output Checkout
Perform Control Input Checkout
Perform Relay Output Checkout
Perform Analog Input Checkout
Perform Analog Output Checkout
Calibrate Analog Inputs using the Learn Feature
Calibrate Analog Output using the Learn Feature
Battery Check
Note that a calibration of the analog input/output
will advance the audit trail counters since it effects
the accuracy of the system.
RS-232 Serial Port
The FC-21 has a general purpose RS-232 Port
which may be used for any one of the following
purposes:
Transaction Printing
Data Logging Internal Datalog Dumps
Remote Metering by Modem (optional)
Computer Communication Link
Configuration by Computer
Print System Setup
Print Calibration/Malfunction History
Remote Control
Instrument Setup by PC’s over Serial Port
A Diskette program is provided with the FC-21
that enables the user to rapidly configure the FC-
21 using an Personnel Computer. Included on the
diskette are common instrument applications which
may be used as a starting point for your application.
This permits the user to have an excellent starting
point and helps speed the user through the
instrument setup.
