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Messenger - The LED panel that is used to display Messages. This is available in three different
models; Model MGM01 (8-character display), Model MGM02 (16-character display) and Model
MGM03 (24-character display).
Messenger Controller - The panel used to control the functions of the Messenger. This controller,
located within the vehicle, enables the vehicle operator to turn the Messenger on or off, as well as
to select the message to be displayed. If multiple Messengers are present on the vehicle, it also
allows the operator to choose which Messenger will display a selected Message. For example,
Messenger #1 could display one Message, while Messenger #2 displays a completely different
Message.
Message - a phrase or pattern created for viewing on the Messenger.
Message File - a data file comprised of various messages that is uploaded to the Messenger. Using
the controller, the Messenger operator can then select a message to be displayed on the Messenger.
The Messenger is designed to store one Message File.
The messages in a Message File are usually oriented towards a specific vehicle and are based on
the needs and/or function of that vehicle. Message files are identified by the extension MSG and
are typically given names that reflect the specific use for which the message file was designed. For
example, UNIT_123.MSG would contain messages designed for use on Police Unit 123.
UNIT_047.MSG would contain messages designed for use on Police Unit 47.
A Message File can contain up to 128 messages.
NOTE: A Message file must adhere to the 8.3 file name structure. In other words, the name of the
Message File (which can not be longer than 8 characters) comes first, followed by a dot (a period)
and then the 3-letter extension that identifies the file to the computer. Example: 12345678.MSG
Library File - A data file that contains specific types of messages. Library files are identified by
the extension LIB. Libraries are usually given a name that describes the type of messages that can
be found within that Library. For example, a POLICE.LIB library would contain messages and/or
patterns oriented towards the Police Department and their particular message needs. A FIRE.LIB
library would contain messages and/or patterns oriented towards the Fire Department and their
particular message needs.
A Library File can contain up to 128 messages.
NOTE: A Library file must adhere to the 8.3 file name structure. In other words, the name of the
Library file (which can not be longer than 8 characters) comes first, followed by a dot (a period)
and then the 3-letter extension that identifies the file to the computer. Example: 12345678.LIB
Starting the Messenger Software...
Since this software is compatible with both Windows 3.X and Windows 95, the process of
launching the software on either platform will be outlined. However, once the software is running,
its operation and functionality are identical, regardless of what version of Windows is running on
the host computer. Please note that the screen shots shown in this manual demonstrate the program
on a Windows 3.X platform. On computers with Windows 95, the software will have a slightly
different appearance.
Windows 3.X
In Windows 3.X, locate the “Messenger Programmer” icon. This can be found in the
“Messenger” program group that was created when the programming software was installed on the
host computer. Double-clicking this icon will start the Messenger Programming Software.
