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DT80 Series dataloggers

  • Mechanical Data
  • Battery/Power Information
  • Host Communications
  • Web Interface
  • FTP / Email Information
  • Modem Logger Information
  • Modbus Information
  • Keypad and Display
  • USB/Internal Storage Information
  • Schedule Information
  • DT80 Range Input Information
  • Downloading data
  • Real Time Clock
  • Firmware Information
  • Programming and Commands
  • Alarms
  • Developing Host Software
  • Reading data with Microsoft Excel
  • Emissions Testing
  • Troubleshooting errors

What mounting options are available?
Presently, the only mounting option is via the cast end-plates. A DIN rail mount may become available as an accessory in the future.

Can I get a model of the case in Autocad or PDF format to help model my installation?
Yes, you can obtain the model files from our downloads page.

What is the vibration rating for a DT80 range logger?
The DT80 range of loggers are not currently rated.

Drop tested to what?
This has been drop tested only in packaging for shipping purposes.

Can I get “blank” terminal label covers?
A clear label cover is shipped as a standard accessory (not with –AL models). Additional covers available as a spare part. The template for printing custom terminal assignments is on the resource CD and is also available from the downloads page.

What is the MTBF for the DT80 range of data loggers?
dataTaker has calculated the MTBF for the DT80 range of loggers to be >1,000,000 hours.


The MTBF figure was determined by comparing the reported warranty returns across all DT80 range loggers over a 3-year period as of September 2008 against the actual number of installed loggers sold over the same period. Our products are designed to be robust and reliable and we have no hesitation in offering a 3-year warranty to back up that claim.

How long will the internal battery last?
Most of the dataTaker DT80 range of loggers include an internal 6 Vdc lead acid battery that can be used as the sole power source for the logger. The battery running time will vary according to the capacity of the internal battery, complexity of the program, the volume of RS232/USB/Ethernet communications, power management settings (e.g. sleep mode timeouts), sensor excitation requirements, and so on. The following table can be used as a rough guide.
 

Internal battery running time

Sample Rate

DT80/81 (1.2Ahr)

DT85 (4Ahr)

Continuous

3 hours

15 hours

1 second

6.5 hours

1 day

3 second

13 hours

2 days

5 second

1 day

3.25 days

15 second

3 days

9.5 days

30 second

5.5 days

18.5 days

1 minute

10 days

1 month

5 minute

1 month

4 months

15 minute

2.5 months

7 months

1 hour

3.5 months

9.5 months

Please see the section "battery life" in latest DT80 range user's manual for a detailed description on how to calculate the running time for specific applications.

Note: dataTaker models DT82E, DT80G, DT80L, DT80GL, DT85L, and DT85GL do not have a 6 Vdc internal battery.

IMPORTANT: These figures assume that the data logger is running firmware version 6.20 or later, as there were many power saving improvements in that release. The latest firmware version can be download from the downloads page.

What happens when the internal battery is exhausted?
The logger will detect when the battery is getting too flat to operate the logger and then will force itself into a sleep state. The logger should only be restarted once power is restored. It is possible for the logger to reset if you attempt to wake the logger by button press or applying a signal to the wake terminal while the logger is in the forced sleep state.


It is good practice to set your logging Job on reset job to ensure that it will automatically start again if the logger reset due to power failure or other reasons.

With version 8.00 firmware, use the Profile StartUp Run=Current_Job or Profile StartUp Run=JobName where Job name is the name of your program. For firmware versions prior to 8.00, use the RunJobOn Reset command.

Can I add a larger external 6 V battery?
Yes, an external 6 V lead acid battery can be connected and charged by the DT80/81. The external battery should be connected between the 'C' and '-' terminals of the power terminal block.


WARNING: The following points should be considered before using an external 6 V battery:

  • You should always disconnect the internal battery if using an external battery as connecting two batteries in parallel can cause excessive current flow between them if they are at different levels of charge. You can disconnect the internal battery by not linking B and C terminals, however VBAT measurement is not possible with this configuration. To make VBAT measurement possible you should remove the internal battery (i.e. disconnect the battery at the cables internally) and then link B and C terminals.
  • Care must be taken when installing the external battery to ensure it is kept at a similar temperature to the actual logger as the charger is temperature compensated. If the difference in temperature is excessive, then the charger will not charge the battery efficiently.
  • Larger capacity lead acid batteries take longer to charge. The suggested maximum rating of the external battery is 4 A/hr unless an external charging system is used.

Note: The DT85 already includes an internal 4 A/hr so there is no advantage in connecting an external 6V battery as suggested here for the DT80/81.

How do I charge a large external 6 V battery?

6 V battery schematic

If the external 6 V battery is larger than 4 A/Hr, then a separate charging circuit must be used. The internal battery must also be disconnected and the B-C link removed. In this configuration, no other power supply should be connected to the DT80 range loggers.


How do I use a 12 V battery?

12 V battery schematic

The DT80 range loggers cannot charge 12 V batteries so a separate charging circuit must be used. The internal battery may be left connected or can be disconnected if you wish. If the internal battery is connected, it will provide UPS functionality to allow for short disconnection of 12 V power, for example, during maintenance, but this configuration will reduce the overall power system efficiency slightly.

 

 


What happens when the battery is exhausted?
The DT80 range loggers will automatically enter low power sleep mode when the battery voltage drops below a threshold. All data is logged to non-volatile flash memory so no data will be lost. A lithium backup battery maintains date/time and other settings even if the main battery is completely flat. The logger will wake automatically when external power is re-applied.

How often should I replace the lithium battery?
This depends on the usage of the DT80 range logger. If it is always connected to a power supply, replace the battery every three to four years. If it spends a long time on the shelf is only used occasionally, once a year replacement would be required. If you are about to deploy the DT80 range on critical tasks, and you don’t know the last time the batteries were changed, it would be best practice to replace the batteries to ensure your data is safe.

How is the battery level displayed?
The standard display (not available with DT81) indicates current internal battery voltage, current draw, and ‘state’ (charging or discharging). Battery and power supply conditions can also be measured, logged, and alarmed using as part of the DT80 range logger program. The TEST command also returns battery and power supply operating details to a PC using dEX or deTransfer.


NOTE: Battery level in % is displayed but the calculation is only approximate.

What happens if the external supply fails?
The DT80 range logger will continue to run as programmed from the internal 6 V battery until the external supply is restored.


NOTE: The logger may go into low power mode depending on the actual application requirements and logger programming.

Can I power using an external battery?
Yes, you may use 10–30 VDC via main power input terminals or 6 VDC Lead Acid via external battery terminals.


NOTE: Note special considerations when using external 6 V batteries.

Can I use a non-standard external power supply (for example, 24 VDC)?
Yes, you may use a 10–30 VDC via main power input terminals or coaxial connector, with approximately 12 W minimum rating required.

What is the average power consumption when powered from an external source?
The following table can be used as a rough guide when powering the logger from an external 12 Vdc source. Please see the section "Power consumption" in the latest DT80 range user's manual for more detailed information.


IMPORTANT: This table assumes the logger is running firmware version 6.20 or later, which includes various additional power saving measures. Also note that loggers produced before May 2007 will consume an additional 540 mW for all scan rates.

Average power consumption

Sample Rate

DT80/81/85 (mW)

Continuous

2300

1 second

1350

3 second

810

5 second

500

15 second

210

30 second

135

1 minute

100

5 minute

70

15 minute

63

1 hour

60

Can I connect directly to a solar panel for power?
Yes, however for best performance and battery life, we suggest the use of a solar conditioner or regulator.

How can I reduce power consumption?
Most importantly, you should ensure you are running the latest version of firmware. Firmware version 6.20 and later include additional power saving measures that can significantly reduce power consumption. Please see the section "Minimising Power Consumption" in the latest DT80 range user's manual for more details on how to reduce the logger's power consumption.


In addition, you should also consider the overall power consumption of the whole system you are using (logger, sensors, modems, etc.) and ensure that devices are only powered as necessary. You can use the relay (1RELAY) on the logger to automatically turn devices on and off as required by the logger's program.

Can the USB port power DT80 range loggers?
No.

Does the DT80 range loggers have a 5 VDC supply for sensors like the DT500?
The DT8x Range series 3 has a 5 VDC power supply on the analog section to provide power to sensors.

What other power options for sensors are available?
The DT85 and all series 2 and 3 models in the DT80 range do have a 12 V regulated 150 mA max switched output.


The DT80 range loggers provide a number of sensor excitation methods.

  1. Switched excitation of 4.5 V, 200 uA or 2.5 mA.
  2. Switched excitation from an external supply.
  3. Excitation using the Latching Relay.
  4. 12 V regulated 150 mA max switched output. (DT85 and all series 2 models only)
  5. Power output terminal (current limited to 300 mA max) that reflects the external power applied to the logger. (DT85 only)

The 6 V battery and main power supply may be used for sensor supply if care is taken with regard to ground loops and common mode.

NOTE: Switched excitation is only available to that particular channel while it is being measured. Methods 2 and 3 require an external power supply be connected to the appropriate terminals.

How can I control power to a modem?
The DT80 range loggers can control power to a modem or other external device using the Latching Relay, alternatively using the digital output functions to control an external relay. Additionally, the DT85 and DT80 (Series 2 only) can also power low power modems via the 12 V output terminal.


NOTE: Output functions can be controlled by Alarms, keypad Functions, schedules, or DO and IF commands.

How do I tell if external power fails?                      

  • Visually–The display backlight will switch off (DT80/85) or the Power LED will change from a long 3 sec blink to a short 3 sec blink (DT81/85). Note that this visual indication will not be available if parameter P16=32 as this disables all LEDs and the backlight to conserve power.
  • Programatically–The DT80 has an internal channel to measure the supply voltage. Add the command VExt to your program, and the supply voltage will be logged with your data. The internal channels can also be used in alarms.
RA1S ALARM1(VExt<10)"Power failure^M" 
  • Historically–the times at which external power failed and recovered are recorded in the event log (type UEVTLOG to view).

Is this USB 2.0 compliant?
The DT80 range logger USB slave port operates as a "full speed" (12 Mbps) USB 2.0 compliant device. It does not support "high speed" (480 Mbps) operation.

Does the logger appear as a “plug & play” device via USB?
Yes, when the logger is connected, the DTUSB driver will be installed. You may be prompted to insert the driver CD. The driver is supplied with the dataTaker Resource CD or will be automatically located on the web by WinXP.

Can a USB hub be used?
Yes.

Can I connect over the web?
Yes, you can connect to the DT80 range loggers over a web connection in several ways.

  • Full host access and control via a conventional host package e.g. deTransfer or dEX command window
  • FTP using a FTP client or Web browser allows access to data store files. Files can be moved to your PC then data viewed using deView or deLogger4.
  • The logger can also send files to a remote FTP server (see this page for examples and details). This is where the DT80 controls the transfer of data files to a remote FTP storage location such as a website or personal storage site that may be provided by your ISP.
  • Web Interface, Enhanced web interface called dEX (available Series 2 & 3 only) provides data retrieval to CSV, data viewing through tables or graphical mimics plus control and programming via a web browser. Series 1 loggers provide (from Version 6 firmware onwards) a simpler web browser interface (Classic Interface) with data retrieval, current data, and status views from included HTML web pages or user developed custom pages.
  • Modbus SCADA interface for access to current data and status.

NOTE: You can see FTP folders from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.

NOTE: To connect a non-modem DT80 range data logger to the internet, you will generally use a router or modem with router capability. The router must be configured appropriately to make the DT80 visible to the internet. This may include setup of port forwarding for the HTTP, FTP, and COMMAND ports used. Some general information about port forwarding can be found here. More information about setting up router functions generally can be found here.

What if I connect to USB and Serial ports simultaneously?
The USB and serial ports may be physically connected at the same time but the logger will talk to only one external host at a time on a first come first served basis.


NOTE: USB comms is default on reset if both are connected. Communications will autoswitch to whichever port was used last.

Can the logger connect to my Ethernet network?
Yes, using the standard Ethernet port, you can connect to a LAN or WAN.

Can multiple users connect over Ethernet?
Yes, multiuser has limited functionality. The same actual data is returned to all connections. Built-in and custom HTML web pages can be used to display current data and status relevant to a particular user type.

Is the RS232 port isolated?
The RS232 Host port is not isolated, but the Communications/Digital/Power section is isolated from the Analog system.

What sort of RS232 cable do I need?
For connection to a PC, a null modem cable is required, available from dataTaker as P/N PROIBM-6. For connection to a modem, a straight through cable is required, available from dataTaker as P/N PROMOD-6.

DT80 Pin No.

PC Pin No.

2 (RXD)

3 (TXD)

3 (TXD)

2 (RXD)

5 (Sig Gnd)

5 (Sig Gnd)

7 (RTS)

8 (CTS)

8 (CTS)

7 (RTS)

 

DT80 Pin No.

Modem Pin No.

1 (DCD)

1 (DCD)

2 (RXD)

2 (RXD)

3 (TXD)

3 (TXD)

4 (DTR)

4 (DTR)

5 (Sig Gnd)

5 (Sig Gnd)

6 (DSR)

6 (DSR)

7 (RTS)

7 (RTS)

8 (CTS)

8 (CTS)

9 (RI)

9 (RI)

 

USB isolation?
As per RS232 Isolation above.

Do I need to upgrade DeTransfer?
No, but some DeTransfer menu functions are not applicable to the DT80 range loggers at present.


NOTE: Menu items;Prepare card for upgrade

Do I need to upgrade the LabVIEW driver?
No, but some supplied VIs may require minor modification to suit user requirements.

Can I print directly from the logger?
Yes, but only to a serial RS232 printer that will accept standard ASCII text and control characters. These units are commonly known as Line Printers. Other suitable printers may include the small docket printers used for POS (Point of Sale) transactions. USB printers are not supported.

Where can I get the latest USB driver for the DT80 range from the web?
Yes. DTUSB can be downloaded from the dataTakerdownloads page.

Can I change the allocated COM port number when using a USB-to-serial adapter?
Yes.

  1. Run Windows Device Manager. 
  2. Locate the required COM port under "Ports (COM and LPT)" and double click it to display Properties window.
  3. Select Port Settings tab.
  4. Press Advanced.
  5. Select a different unused COM port number.

Why can’t I establish a PPP connection with a modem?
Earlier versions of DT80 firmware did not switch to PPP mode until Windows sent the word CLIENT. Windows sends this automatically when establishing a direct serial PPP connection but not for modem connections. DT80 range firmware version 7.08 and later support proper PPP handling for both direct and modem connections. Upgrade your firmware to the latest version.

If it is not possible to upgrade the firmware, you will need to create and save a login script (.scp file) such as the following:

proc main delay 5
transmit "^M^J"
delay 5
transmit "CLIENT"
waitfor "CLIENTSERVER"
endproc

Enable it in the Network Connection / Properties / Security tab ("Run Script" checkbox).

When I establish a PPP connection to the DT80 range logger, I lose internet access on my host computer.
This can occur if the host PC has two TCP/IP connections–a serial PPP connection to talk to the logger and an Ethernet connection to connect to a local area network and the Internet. The problem occurs if Windows sets the PPP connection as the "default route" rather than the Ethernet connection. In this case, all internet traffic from the host will be forwarded to the logger rather than the LAN.


The following may help resolve this issue:

Open Network Settings on the Windows Control Panel. This should list your PPP and LAN connections. Right click on the PPP connection and select "Properties" > "Networking" tab > "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)" > "Properties" > "Advanced". On the "General" tab, you should now see a checkbox marked "Use default gateway on remote network". Remove the tick from this checkbox. After making this change, it may be necessary to reboot the host PC in order for it to fully take effect.

Can I reduce the time it takes to establish a PPP connection?
When connecting to the logger via PPP, it can take up to 30 seconds to connect, during which time Windows displays "Registering your computer on the network" or similar. This is due to Windows attempting to negotiate various PPP protocol options, which the DT80 range loggers do not support. To speed up this process, try the following:

Open Network Settings on the Windows Control Panel. This should list your PPP and LAN connections. Right click on the PPP connection and select "Properties" > "Networking" > "Settings" button to bring up a "PPP Settings" dialog box. This should contain an "Enable software compression" checkbox. Remove the tick from this checkbox.

Why doesn’t the modem that is connected to the logger auto answer?
Early versions of the DT80 and DT81 did not allow the modem to answer calls if the logger was in its sleep mode. The loggers that have this behavior are as follows:

  • DT80: Serial numbers less than 083355 (sold before 29-Mar-2007)
  • DT81: Serial numbers less than 083798 (sold before 13-Sep-2007)
  • DT85: None affected.

The reason these loggers will not allow the modem to auto answer is that when they are in sleep mode, the DTR (Data Terminal Ready) signal is held inactive, which indicates to the modem to hang-up a call or prevent a new call to be answered. If the logger is awake when the call arrives, there is no problem as DTR is active, and the modem can answer the call.

There are two possible workarounds:

  1. Set P15=2 to ensure that the logger never goes to sleep.
  2. Connect RI on the Host Port connector to CTS on the serial sensor port. This will cause the logger to wake up when the ring starts. You must also ensure that the logger does not go back into sleep mode before the call is established (i.e. while the modems are "training up", establishing common protocols for transmission). Otherwise, the call will be terminated prematurely. To do this, you must ensure that P17 is set to a time period greater than the time it takes to establish a connection. For a PSTN modem this might take 60 seconds.

None of this is necessary with newer model loggers as the RI signal will cause the logger to wake and DTR is held active when the logger is in its sleep mode.

What is a web interface?
The DT80 range has an inbuilt web interface which provides a convenient way to access current data values, status information, and data store files from any web browser (no additional software required).

What is dEX?
dEX is the advanced web interface available only on Series 2 or above loggers. Please see the dEX FAQ for more information.

Can I program my logger from a web browser?
Yes. There is a configuration tool built into dEX. This interface provides a graphical environment from which to configure your logger. A terminal window with macro buttons is also provided in dEX to allow you to send commands and job text to the logger in a similar way to DeTransfer. This allows you to program the logger using the built in command language.

Please refer to the dEX FAQ for questions on the dEX interface.

Series 1 models do not have any way of programming the logger via the web interface.

Can I design my own HTML pages?
Yes, the DT80 Range loggers can serve customized web pages to suit specific applications.

Note: Custom web pages are stored on the internal compact flash drive. This drive is shared with data storage.

Can I dynamically change HTML styling based on measurements from my logger?
Yes, this will require some knowledge of JavaScript. You will also need to download jQuery and store it on your logger. The code below is an example of how to retrieve a value from the logger (100 CV) and style it based on its value.

<html>
    <head>
    <!-- IMPORT THE JQUERY SOURCE FILE -->
    <script type="text/javascript" src="jquery-1.3.2.min.js"></script>
    <!-- THIS IS OUR CODE -->
    <script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript">
        //this code run when the document is loaded
            $(document).ready(function() {
                //these  two lines will automatically strip the SSI comments from the DIV
                var CV100w$("#100CV").text(); //get the number for the hidden DIV
                CV100 = parsefloat(CV100); //convert to a number
                //apply styling to the #100CV DIV based on the value of CV
                if (CV100>10) $("#100CV").css('color', 'red');
                if (CV100<2) $("#100CV").css('color', 'green');
            });
</script>
</head>
    <body>
        <div id="100CV"><!-- #echo var = "100CV(FF3)" --></div>
    </body>
</html>

Does the DT80 range support FTP?
Yes, data store and other files can be moved using FTP via Ethernet or RS232/PPP.

The DT80 range logger products are capable of both FTP Server and FTP Client (Note: FTP Client for data files only–from version 6.10) operation.

FTP Server: Allows FTP folders to be accessed from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.

FTP Client: As of version 6.10, the DT80 range loggers can also send data to a remote FTP server using the CopyD command. See the latest user's manual for more details. This is sometimes termed 'FTP Push' as the logger initiates the data file transfer.

Can the DT80 range send email?
Yes. Email out from all models of the DT80 range was introduced in version 9.08 firmware. Simply down load V9.08 firmware from the downloads page, and update the firmware for your DT80 range logger, and the email feature will be available.

My DT80 has a static IP address on my network, but I can’t send an email of FTP data.
Check you have configured the DNS settings in the DT8x profile to match the network settings. When you use a domain name address (e.g. my.Logger.Network), the network has a Domain Name Server that translates the domain name to an IP address (e.g. 10.70.20.123). When the DT80 has been assigned a static IP address, you also need to set the IP address of the networks Domain Name Server.

What are the result codes for email/FTP transfers?
As of version 7.02 the system variable, 29SV indicates the status of the last outgoing FTP attempt.

0 - no FTP transfers have been attempted

1 - FTP in progress

2 - last FTP transfer was successful

Error codes while connecting to server:

- 1 - can't find server name (name invalid or can't connect to DNS server)

- 2 - can't connect to server (computer not present or no FTP server running)

- 3 - unexpected response from server (rare)

- 4 - logger specified invalid username

- 5 - logger specified invalid password

- 6 - error selecting binary mode on server (rare)

- 7 - error creating or changing to specified directory on server (user may not have permission to create directories)

Error codes during data transfer:

-10 - no response from server (server may be overloaded)

-12 - could not open data connection (server may be overloaded)

-13 - could not read file from logger disk (rare)

-14 - server returned error (rare)

-15 - error sending or receiving (connection may have dropped out)

File transfer Error codes:

-16 - could not open destination file (directory or read-only file exists with same name)

-17 - could not write to file (disk may be full)

Store file error codes:

-20 - problem accessing file

-21 - store file is corrupted

-22 - some other problem

Communication queue:

-30 Unload output file could not be queued for transmission because communications session queue is full

Abort error code:

-99 - Unload was aborted by user (Q command)

What size data plan do I need?
The following information can be useful to understand data usage per month. The table below shows the approximate MB/Month required to transmit data for various combinations of sample rate and number of readings.

Sample Rate

No. Readings

MB/Month(1)

5 seconds

50

325

5 seconds

10

90

5 minutes

50

5.5

5 minutes

10

1.5

1 hour

50

0.5

1 hour

10

0.1

(1) MB/Month value shown is approximate.

Accessing the internal web interface ("dEX") remotely over a mobile network will require additional data traffic. If accessing dEX remotely, you should allow at least 500 MB/month. You do not need to access dEX remotely to configure and operate the logger as this can be done locally before deployment or in the field.

The information above is a guide only. You should be very careful when selecting a data plan as often there are quite expensive excess charges when monthly data allowances are exceeded. If you are uncertain what size plan you need, get a plan with a larger data allowance, monitor your bills for a period to determine worst case usage, then adjust your plan accordingly.

I have a Telstra SIM, but I cannot connect to dEX remotely.
If you want to remotely connect to dEX, and you have a Telstra SIM card, you will need to use the APN "telstra.extranet" (no quotes) rather than the default "telstra.internet". This is because the default APN gives you a private IP address which sits behind Telstra's NAT (firewall) rather than a public IP address that can be accessed via the Internet.

To do this in dEX:

  • Open the settings panel
  • Click the "Modem" option from the list to the left
  • Ensure that the General tab is selected
  • For "Mobile Network", check "Manual"
  • Enter "telstra.extranet" (no quotes) into the APN field
  • Save your settings to the logger

If using "telstra.extranet" prevents your logger from connecting to the Internet, then you do not have a particular code activated on your SIM which enables this feature. In this case you should call your Telstra representative, and request that they enable the code "GPTEXB3" (no quotes).

To test whether you have a public IP address, look at the modem connection screen on the LCD, and you will see an IP address like "123.209.232.51". If you have a private IP address, it will start with a small number such as "10.70.52.7". Given that Telstra only offers dynamic IP addresses, you will also require a DDNS account (dyndns.com is preferred). You will need to enter the details on the DDNS page for host name, username, and password. All other values should be left as default. Once you have a public IP address and DDNS set up, you will only need to enter the "name" into your web browser to get into dEX.

Why do I get a SIM Error?
There are three reasons why you might get a SIM error:

  1. You have not locked your SIM in place–The SIM should click into the slot nicely, and you need to ensure that the lock is moved to the right as per the diagram on the logger.
  2. The SIM PIN is entered incorrectly–If this is the case, you should see a prompt on the LCD to enter your SIM PIN.
  3. The SIM takes too long to warm up (mostly occurs on old SIM cards)–In this case, you will need to change a hidden profile to extend the warm up time for your SIM (the default is 15 seconds). In a command window, type:

PROFILE MODEM ON_DETECTION_DELAY_S=30

If you have confirmed that none of the above fix the problem, then see if the SIM works in a mobile phone.  

What does Comms Problem mean?
Although there are several reasons why this might occur, the most common reason would be because the SIM card is not activated. That is, it cannot register on the mobile network, or the signal strength is so low that the modem cannot see any wireless networks. Check your SIM card by putting it into your phone, and see if it works there. If so, have a look at the signal strength on the phone. If the SIM works and the signal strength on the phone is okay, check or replace your antenna.

I get poor reception. What can I do?
For 3G versions of the logger, you are permitted to use an additional diversity antenna to increase the Receive strength (Transmit strength may be limited by your government/local authorities). You may also require changing the antenna to obtain better signal strength.

What APN can I use?
Each mobile/cellular Provider requires a specific Access Point Name (APN) to be specified in order to connect to Internet services through their network. The trouble is that these APNs are not always easy to find. A Provider may also use different APNs depending on the plan/contract/SIM configuration. The SIM itself does not contain any information about the APN to which it is configured, and because of this the logger cannot automatically configure itself for all SIM cards.

Below is a list of APN's which may work with service providers around the world.

List of APN's

Country / Region

Carrier

APN

User Name

Password

Albania

Vodafone Albania

Twa

 

 

Algeria

Wataniya Algeria

internet

nedjma

nedjma

Andorra

O2 Slovakia

internet

 

 

Argentina

CTI Argentina

internet.ctimovil.com.ar

guest

guest

Argentina

Personal

gprs.personal.com

mobile number

adgj

Australia

Telstra

telstra.internet

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.pcpack

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.datapack

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.extranet

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.bigpond

 

 

Australia

Optus Australia

connect

 

 

Australia

Optus Australia

internet

 

 

Australia

Optus Prepaid

preconnect

 

 

Australia

Three Australia

3netaccess

 

 

Australia

Three Prepaid

3services

 

 

Australia

Vodafone Australia

vfinternet.au

 

 

Australia

Vodafone Prepaid

vfprepaymbb

 

 

Australia

Crazy John's Australia

purtona.net

 

 

Australia

DoDo

dodolns1

 

 

Australia

Virgin Mobile

VirginBroadband

guest

guest

Australia

Blink

splns888a1

 

 

Australia

Internode

Internode

 

 

Australia

Primus

primuslns1

 

 

Australia

TPG

internet

 

 

Australia

Exetel

Exetel1

 

 

Austria

3 AT

Drei.at

 

 

Austria

Mobilkom - Austria

a1.net

gprs@a1plus.at

 

Austria

one

web.one.at

web

web

Austria

Telering Austria

web

web@telering.at

web

Austria

T-Mobile Austria

gprsinternet

t-mobile

tm

Azerbaijan

Azercell

internet

guest

guest

Bahrain

Batelco

internet.batelco.com

 

 

Bangladesh

Grameen Phone

gpinternet

 

 

Belarus

VELCOM

web.velcom.by

web

web

Belgium

BASE/Orange Belgium

orangeinternet

 

 

Belgium

Belgacom MobileProximus

internet.proximus.be

 

 

Belgium

Mobistar Belgum

web.pro.be

mobistar

mobistar

Botswana

Mascom Wireless

internet.mascom

 

 

Brazil

Claro Brasil

claro.com.br

claro

claro

Brazil

Oi Brazil

 

 

 

Brazil

TELEMIGC

gprs.telemigcelular.com.br

celular

celular

Brazil

TIM Brazil

tim.br

tim

tim

British Virgin Islands

CCT Boatphone

cctmobilenet.com

 

 

Bulgaria

GloBul

internet.globul.bg

globul

 

Bulgaria

GlOBUL Bulgaria

internet.globul.bg

globul

 

Bulgaria

Mobitel Bulgaria

mms-gprs.mtel.bg

mtel

mtel

Bulgaria

Vivatel Bulgaria

internet.vivatel.bg

vivatel

vivatel

Cameroon

MTN Cameroon

INTERNET

guest

guest

Canada

Bell Mobility 1

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Bell Mobility 2

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Bell Mobility 3

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Wind Mobile

broadband.windmobile.ca

 

 

Canada

Telus ISP

isp.telus.com

 

 

Canada

Telus VPN

vpn.telus.com

 

 

Canada

Telus SP

sp.internet.com

 

 

Canada

Fido Internet

internet.fido.ca

fido

fido

Canada

Rogers Internet

internet.com

wapuser1

wap

Canada

Rogers Internet (VPN)

vpn.com

wapuser1

wap

Chile

Entel Chile

imovil.entelpcs.cl

entelpcs

entelpcs

Chile

Telefonica Movil de Chile

web.tmovil.cl

web

web

China

China Mobile

cmnet

 

 

Colombia

Comcel 3GSM Colombia

internet.comcel.com.co

COMCELWEB

COMCELWEB

Colombia

Tigo

wap.sentelgsm.com

 

 

Costa Rica

Ice Celular

icecelular

 

 

Croatia

Tele2 HR (Croatia)

internet.tele2.hr

 

 

Croatia

Tele2 Croatia

internet.tele2.hr

 

 

Croatia

T-Mobile HR (Croatia)

web.htgprs

 

 

Croatia

T-Mobile HR

web.htgprs

 

 

Croatia

VIPNET Start Croatia

gprs0.vipnet.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIP HSDPA HR (Croatia)

data.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET 3G Croatia

3g.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET HSDPA Croatia

data.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET Pro Croatia

gprs5.vipnet.hr

38591

38591

Czech Republic

O2 Czech Republic

internet

 

 

Czech Republic

T-Mobile Czech Republic

internet.t-mobile.cz

wap

wap

D.R.Congo

Vodacom Congo

vodanet

vodanet

vodalive

Denmark

H3 Danmark

data.tre.dk

 

 

Denmark

Orange Denmark

web.orange.dk

 

 

Denmark

Sonofon Denmark

internet

 

 

Denmark

TDC Mobil Danmark

internet

 

 

Denmark

Telia Danmark

www.internet.mtelia.dk

 

 

Dominican R.

Centennial

private.centennialwireless.com

privuser

priv

Dominican R.

Orange Dominican R.

orange.net.com.do

orange

orange

Egypt

MobiNil Egypt

mobinilweb

guest

guest

Egypt

Vodafone Egypt

internet.vodafone.net

internet

internet

Egypt

Etisalat

etisalat

 

 

Estonia

Elisa Estonia

internet

 

 

Estonia

EMT Estonia

internet.emt.ee

 

 

Estonia

RLE Estonia

internet

 

 

Estonia

Tele2 Eesti AS

mobileinternet.tele2.ee

wap

wap

Finland

DNA Finland

internet

 

 

Finland

Elisa Finland

internet

 

 

Finland

Radiolinja

internet

 

 

Finland

Sonera Finland

internet

 

 

France

Bouygues Telecom

ebouygtel.com

 

 

France

B.Telecom Entreprises

a2bouygtel.com

a2b

acces

France

Bouygues Telecom VPN

vpnbouygtel.com

 

 

France

Orange France (3G)

orange.fr

orange

orange

France

Orange Fr Enterprise

internet-enterprise

orange

orange

France

SFR-France

websfr

 

 

Germany

E-Plus

internet.eplus.de

eplus

 

Germany

O2 Germany

surfo2

 

 

Germany

T-Mobile D (Germany)

internet.t-mobile

t-mobile

tm

Germany

Vodafone Germany

web.vodafone.de

 

 

Ghana

Areeba

internet.spacefon.com

guest

guest

Ghana

Vodafone

browse

 

 

Greece

Cosmote

internet

guest

guest

Greece

Q-telecom

internet

 

 

Greece

Telestet (STET)

gnet.b-online.gr

phonenumber

24680

Greece

WIND Greece

 

 

 

Greece

Vodafone Greece

internet

 

 

Guatemala

Comcel Guatemala

Wap.tigo.gt

Wap

Wap

Guatemala

PCS Digital

ideasalo

 

 

Guyana

GT & T Cellink Plus

wap.cellinkgy.com

test

test

Honduras

Alo Pcs

internet.ideasalo.ni

internet

internet

Hong Kong

CSL

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

New World

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

Orange Hong Kong

web.orangehk.com

 

 

Hong Kong

Peoples - Hong Kong

peoples.net

 

 

Hong Kong

SmarTone-Vodafone

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

Sunday

sgprs

 

 

Hong Kong

Three Hong Kong

mobile.three.com.hk

 

 

Hungary

Pannon

net

 

 

Hungary

T-Mobile HU

internet

 

 

Hungary

Vodafone Hungary

internet.vodafone.net

 

 

Iceland

Nova - Iceland

internet.nova.is

 

 

Iceland

Siminn

internet

 

 

India

AirTel

airtelgprs.com

 

 

India

BPL India

bplgprs.com

bplmobile

 

India

BSNL

celloneportal

 

 

India

Hutch India

www

 

 

India

Idea Cellular India

internet

 

 

India

MTNL

mmsmtnlmum

mtnl

mtnl123

India

Orange India

portalnmms

 

 

Indonesia

Excelcomindo Excelcom

www.xlgprs.net

xlgprs

proxl

Indonesia

IM3

www.indosat-m3.net

gprs

im3

Indonesia

Indostat

satelindogprs.com

 

 

Indonesia

Telkomsel Flash

flash

wap

wap123

Indonesia

Telkomsel Data

telkomsel

wap

wap123

Ireland

O2 Ireland

open.internet.public

gprs

gprs

Ireland

Meteor

data.mymeteor.ie

 

 

Ireland

emobile

broadband.eircommbb.ie

 

 

Ireland

3

3internet

 

 

Israel

Cellcom Israel

etecsa

 

 

Israel

Internet Pelephone

internet.pelephone.net.il

pcl@3g

pcl

Israel

Orange Israel

orangeinternet

 

 

Italy

BLU Contratto Italy

INTERNET

 

 

Italy

BLU Prepagata Italy

PINTERNET

 

 

Italy

Blue Italy

internet

 

 

Italy

H3G Italy

tre.it

 

 

Italy

TIM Italy

ibox.tim.it

 

 

Italy

TIM Web

ibox.tim.it

 

 

Italy

Vodafone Omnitel Italy

web.omnitel.it

 

 

Italy

WIND Aziende

internet.wind.biz

 

 

Jamaica

Cable & Wireless Jamaica

wap

 

 

Jamaica

DigiCel Jamaica

web.digiceljamaica.com

wapuser

wap03jam

Japan

NTT DoCoMo

mopera.ne.jp

 

 

Jordan

Zain

zain

 

 

Jordan

Umniah

 

 

 

Jordan

Orange

wap.orange.jo

 

 

Kazakhstan

Beeline Kazakhstan

internet.beeline.kz

internet.beeline

 

Kenya

SafariCom

web.safaricom.com

web

web

South Korea

KTF HSDPA Internet

hsdpa-internet.ktfwing.com

 

 

South Korea

SKTelecom

internet.sktelecom.com

 

 

Kuwait

MTC Kuwait

apn01

anything

anything

Kuwait

Wataniya Kuwait

action.wataniya.com

 

 

Laos

ETL

etlnet

 

 

Latvia

LMT Latvia

internet.lmt.lv

 

 

Latvia

Tele2 Latvia

mobileinternet.tele2.lv

wap

wap

Latvia

Tele2 Baltcom GSM Latvia

internet.tele2.lv

gprs

internet

Lebanon

Cellis FTML

internet.ftml.com.lb

plugged

plugged

Lebanon

MTC Touch Lebannon

gprs.mtctouch.com.lb

 

 

Lithuania

Bite GSM Lithuania

banga

 

 

Lithuania

Omnitel

gprs.omnitel.net

 

 

Lithuania

Tele2 Lietuva

mobileinternet.tele2.lt

wap

wap

Luxembourg

LUXGSM

web.pt.lu

 

 

Luxembourg

Tango

internet

tango

tango

Luxembourg

Tele2Tango HSPA

hspa

tango

tango

Luxembourg

VOXMobile

vox.lu

 

 

Macau

CTM Macau

ctm-mobile

 

 

Macau

M.Hutchison Telecom

web.hutchisonmacau.com

hutchison

1234

R.Macedonia

Mobimak

internet

internet

mobimak

Malaysia

Celcom Malaysia

celcom.net.my

 

 

Malaysia

DIGI

diginet

 

 

Malaysia

Maxis 2G

internet.gprs.maxis

 

 

Malaysia

Maxis 3G (Contract)

unet

maxis

wap

Malaysia

Maxis 3G (Pre-pay)

net

maxis

net

Malaysia

Timecel

timenet.com.my

 

 

Malaysia

TM Touch

internet

 

 

Malta

Go Mobile

rtgsurfing

 

 

Malta

Vodafone Malta

internet

internet

internet

Mexico

Telcel - Mexico

internet.itelcel.com

iesgprs

iesgprs2002

Mexico

Telefonica Mexico

 

 

 

Moldova

MoldCell

gprs

gprs

 

Morocco

Maroc Telecom

iam

wac

1987

Morocco

Medi Telecom

wap.meditel.ma

MEDIWAP

MEDIWAP

Mozambique

Mcel (isp)

isp.mcel.mz

guest

guest

Mozambique

Mcel (wap)

wap.mcel.mz

guest

guest

Mozambique

Vodacom

internet

 

 

Netherlands

KPN Netherlands

internet

KPN

gprs

Netherlands

Orange Netherlands

internet

 

 

Netherlands

Tele2 Netherlands

internet.tele2.nl

 

 

Netherlands

Tele2 Breedband

internet.versatel.nl

username

password

Netherlands

Telfort Breedband

internet

telfortnl

password

Netherlands

T-Mobile Netherlands

internet

 

 

New Zealand

Telecom NZ XT

internet.telecom.co.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Vodafone New Zealand

www.vodafone.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Virgin Mobile

VirginInternet

 

 

New Zealand

CallPlus

www.callplus.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Slingshot

www.slingshot.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Telstra Clear

www.telstraclear.net.nz

 

 

Nigeria

Globacom (WAP)

glowap

wap

wap

Nigeria

Globacom (Internet)

gprs

wap

 

Nigeria

MTN Nigeria

web.gprs.mtnnigeria.net

wap

gprs

Norway

Netcom Norge

internet.netcom.no

 

 

Norway

Tele2 Norway

mobileinternet.tele2.no

 

 

Norway

Telenor Norway

telenor

 

 

Norway

Vodafone Norway

internet.vodafone.net

 

 

Pakistan

Ufone

ufone.internet

ufone

ufone

Panama

Cable & Wireless Panama

apn01.cwpanama.com.pa

xxx

xxx

Paraguay

CTI Paraguay

internet.ctimovil.com.py

ctigprs

ctigprs999

Peru

Claro (TIM) Peru

tim.pe

tim

tulibertad

Philippines

Globe Telecoms

www.globe.com.ph

globe

globe

Philippines

Global Philippines

www.globe.com.ph

globe

globe

Philippines

SMART Philippines

internet

witsductoor

banonoy

Philippines

Sun Cellular

minternet

 

 

Poland

ERA Poland

erainternet

erainternet

erainternet

Poland

Idea Poland

www.idea.pl

idea

idea

Poland

Orange Poland

internet

internet

internet

Poland

Plus GSM/Polkomtel

www.plusgsm.pl

 

 

Portugal

Optimus

internet

 

 

Portugal

TMN

internet

 

 

Portugal

Vodafone Telecel Pt.

internet.vodafone.pt

vodafone

vodafone

Qatar

Q-Tel

gprs.qtel

 

 

Reunion(France)

Orange Re

orangerun

orange

orange

Romania

Orange Romania

internet

 

 

Romania

Vodafone Romania

internet.connex.ro

internet.connex.ro

connex

Russian Federation

VimpelCom

internet.beeline.ru

beeline

beeline

Russian Federation

MegaFon RU

internet

 

 

Russian Federation

Motiv

internet.beeline.ru

beeline

beeline

Russian Federation

MTS

internet.mts.ru

mts

mts

Russian Federation

NCC

internet

ncc

 

Russian Federation

NTC (New Telephone Co)

internet.ntc

 

 

Russian Federation

PrimTel

internet.primtel.ru

 

 

Saint Lucia

Cable and Wireless

internet

 

 

Saint Lucia

DigiCel St.Lucia

web.digiceloecs.com

wapoecs

wap03oecs

Saudi Arabia

Mobily Saudi Arabia

web1

 

 

Saudi Arabia

STC

jawalnet.com.sa

 

 

Saudi Arabia

Zain

Zain

 

 

Serbia

Mobtel Srbija

internet

mobtel

gprs

Serbia

Telekom Srbija

gprsinternet

mts

064

Serbia

Telekom Srbija (WAP)

gprswap

mts

064

Serbia

Telekom Srbija (MMS)

mms

mts

064

Serbia

T-Mobile CG (Montenegro)

internet.postpaid

38167

38167

Singapore

M1 Singapore

sunsurf

 

 

Singapore

Singtel Singapore

internet

 

 

Singapore

Starhub Singapore

shwapint

 

 

Slovakia

Orange Slovakia

internet

jusernejm

pasvord

Slovakia

T-Mobile SK (Slovakia)

internet

internet

 

Slovenia

Mobitel UMTS/HSDPA

internet

mobitel

internet

Slovenia

Si.mobil SI

internet.simobil.si

 

 

Slovenia

T-2

t-2.net

 

 

South Africa

Cell-C South Africa

internet

Cellcis

Cellcis

South Africa

MTN South Africa

myMTN

 

 

South Africa

Vodacom South Africa

internet

 

 

South Africa

Telkom

Internet

 

 

Spain

Amena

internet

CLIENTE

AMENA

Spain

Movistar Spain

movistar.es

movistar

movistar

Spain

Orange ES

internet

CLIENTE

AMENA

Spain

Telefonica Spain

movistar.es

movistar

movistar

Spain

Vodafone Spain

airtelnet.es

vodafone

vodafone

Sri Lanka

Dialog GSM (Contract)

www.dialogsl.com

 

 

Sri Lanka

Dialog GSM (Pre Pay)

ppwap

 

 

Sri Lanka

Mobitel SriLanka

isp

 

 

Sweden

S Comviq

internet.tele2.se

wap

wap

Sweden

SpringMobil SE

 

 

 

Sweden

SWEDEN

 

 

 

Sweden

Sweden 3G

 

 

 

Sweden

Tele2 Sweden

mobileinternet.tele2.se

 

 

Sweden

Tele2 Sweden

isplnk1.swip.net

gprs

internet

Sweden

Telenor SE

internet.telenor.se

 

 

Sweden

Telia AB Sweden

online.telia.se

 

 

Sweden

Tre Sweden

data.tre.se

 

 

Switzerland

Orange Switzerland

internet

 

 

Switzerland

Sunrise

internet

 

 

Switzerland

Swisscom Mobile

gprs.swisscom.ch

 

 

Switzerland

Tele2 Switzerland

internet.tele2.ch

 

 

Taiwan

Chung Wa Telecom T.

internet

 

 

Taiwan

Far Eas Tone

internet

 

 

Taiwan

KG Telecom

internet

 

 

Taiwan

Taiwan Cellular

internet

 

 

Thailand

AIS

internet

 

 

Thailand

DTAC

www.dtac.co.th

 

 

Thailand

Orange Thailand

internet

orange

orange

Turkey

Aria

aycell

 

 

Turkey

AVEA

internet

 

 

Turkey

Turkcell Turkey

internet

gprs

gprs

Turkey

Vodafone TR

internet

 

 

Ukraine

Astelit

internet

 

 

Ukraine

Beeline UA

internet.beeline.ua

 

 

Ukraine

Kyivstar

www.kyivstar.net

igprs

internet

Ukraine

UMC Ukraine

www.umc.ua

 

 

United Arab Emirates

du UAE

Du

 

 

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat

etisalat.ae

 

 

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat UAE

mnet

mnet

mnet

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat Wasel

waselmnet

 

 

United Kingdom

3 UK

three.co.uk

 

 

United Kingdom

Jersey Telecom

pepper

abc

abc

United Kingdom

O2 UK Mobile Web

MOBILE.O2.CO.UK

faster

password

United Kingdom

O2 UK VPN

VPN.O2.CO.UK

username

password

United Kingdom

Tesco-prepay

prepay.tesco-mobile.com

 

 

United Kingdom

Orange UK

orangeinternet

 

 

United Kingdom

Three UK

three.co.uk

 

 

United Kingdom

T-Mobile (One2One) UK

general.t-mobile.uk

Username

one2one

United Kingdom

T-Mobile UK

general.t-mobile.uk

t-mobile

tm

United Kingdom

Virgin Mobile UK

goto.virginmobile.com

user

 

United Kingdom

Vodafone (Contract) UK

internet

web

web

United Kingdom

Vodafone (Pre-pay) UK

pp.vodafone.co.uk

wap

wap

USA

AT&T

isp.cingular

 

 

USA

Bell Mobility USA

 

 

 

USA

Cellular One USA

cellular1wap

 

 

USA

T-Mobile (Non-contract)

wap.voicestream.com

 

 

USA

T-Mobile USA

internet2.voicestream.com

 

 

USA

Unicel Info2Go

apn.unicel.com

 

 

USA

Verizon USA 1

 

 

 

USA

Verizon USA 2

 

 

 

Uruguay

ANCEL

gprs.ancel

 

 

Uruguay

CTI Uruguay

internet.ctimovil.com.uy

ctiweb

ctiweb999

Uzbekistan

Uzdunrobita

net.urd.uz

user

pass

Venezuela

Digitel TIM

gprsweb.digitel.ve

 

 

Does dataTaker support Modbus RTU?
Yes, the DT80 range (from firmware version 6 onwards) includes support for Modbus on Ethernet and all serial ports including the Serial Sensor port (DT80/85 only). The DT80 range loggers are Modbus ‘server’ or ‘slave’ and will respond to requests from a Modbus ‘client’ or ‘master’, for example a SCADA system. If using the RS422/485, the Serial port address can be modified by the MODBUS_SERVER profile settings.

NOTE: Note that once configured as a Modbus port, serial ports are not available for other use. Refer to the user manual for detailed Modbus information.

Does dataTaker support Modbus Plus?
No.                                                                        

Can I read historical data via Modbus?        
No, only current data available via Channel Variable (CVs) can be accessed. Large amounts of data can be classified by use of the Histogram functionality which is then available via CVs. For small amounts of historical data, use multiple CVs in a shift register arrangement.

Can I “write” data or values to the DT80 range registers?
Yes, values can be written directly to DT80 range logger Channel Variables (CVs) for use within the data logger program or to be logged. Digital outputs can also be accessed directly by Modbus ‘write’ commands.

Can I program the DT80 range loggers via Modbus?
No, the data logger must be programmed separately.

 

Can the DT80 range read Modbus devices?

Modbus master capability was added in V8.00 firmware.

Does the DT80 range support Modbus TCP/IP?
Yes.

What communications interfaces can be used?

  • Modbus RS232 on the Host Port
  • Modbus RS232, RS422 or RS485 on the serial sensor port
  • Modbus TCP/IP on the Ethernet port

What data types can the DT80 read?

  • 16-bit signed integers
  • 16-bit unsigned integers
  • 32-bit signed integers
  • 32-bit floating point numbers

Can the DT80 read low word/high word data formats?
By default, the DT80 reads data in high word/low word format. Using the channel option MER channel option, the DT80 can read low word/high word data format.

 

Can the DT80 be a Master and slave device at the same time?

Only in Modbus TCP/IP can a device be a master and a slave on the same Modbus network. Modbus RS232, RS422, and RS485 can only have one master per network. The DT80 can be a master device on one network and an RTU on another at the same time. For example, you can have a touch screen HMI connected to the host port, RTU devices connected to an RS485 network on the serial sensor port, and have the DT80 being read by a SCADA system on a TCP/IP connection while the DT80 is reading other RTU devices on the same TCP/IP network.

Keypad

The DT81 doesn’t have a keypad. How do I transfer data to a USB memory device?
You can either have an ONINSERT.DXC program on the memory stick or have the program running in the DT81 that will transfer the data when the USB memory device is inserted. For further details, refer to the USB flash disk port (USB master port) below.

Can I program the logger from the keypad?
No, but it is possible to utilise the programmable Functions to load and run named ‘Jobs’. This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I start and stop a program or schedule from the keypad?
Yes, by using the programmable Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Start"{G}

The current program will start when Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION2="Stop"{H}

The current program will stop when Function2 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.
Note: This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I control logging from the keypad?
Yes, by using the programmable Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Start Logging"{LOGON}

Will turn on logging when Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION2="Stop Logging"{LOGOFF}

Will turn off logging when Function2 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.
Note: This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I enter data from the keypad?
No, however direct commands can be programmed as Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Increase"{1CV=1CV+1}

Increases the value of 1CV each time Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION1="Zero"{1CV=0}

Resets the value of 1CV each time Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

Note: This requires previous programming of Functions. Future firmware will allow editing of CVs directly.

How many programmable functions are available?
Ten different functions can be configured at any one time. It is possible to modify the function programming at any time via host PC or USB flash disk with oninsert.dxc file.

Can I remove the two standard Functions for copying data and removing the USB flash disk?
Yes, program Functions 9 & 10 to be blank.

Example:
FUNCTION9=
FUNCTION10=

In text program or in immediate schedule of DeLogger 4 within USER channel type.

Are Functions unique to a Job?
No, the Functions retain their programming unless specifically overwritten or the logger is reset.

What does the “Edit” key do aside from OK functions?
This is reserved for future use.

Can you lock and disable the keypad?
Not directly. However, programmable Functions can be disabled by appropriate programming (Set functions to ‘empty’).

 

Display

How many characters is the display?
The display has 2 lines and 16 characters per line.

How big is the display?
Module dimensions are 85.0 mm x 36.0 mm x 13.2 mm with the viewing area being 66.0 mm x 16.0 mm.
The active area is 56.21 mm x 11.5 mm

How large are the pixels?
The dot or pixel size is 0.55 mm x 0.65 mm with a pitch spacing of 0.60 mm x 0.70 mm.

How big are the characters?
Character size is 2.95 mm x 5.55 mm. Character pitch is 3.55 mm x 5.95 mm. Each character position has a 5 x 10 dot array. Most characters are drawn in a 5 x 7 dot array.

How many channels can I view on the logger display at the same time?
One channel can be viewed at a time. The actual channel or alarm shown is selected by pressing the up and down directional keys on the front panel.

Can I view stored (historical) data on the logger display?
No, only current data (the most recent value for each channel) and Alarm information can be viewed. Current Status information and System Warning message are also displayed.

Can I control which data is available for display?
Yes, you may use the ND channel options for data and Alarms. Status screens can be enabled or disabled for display by P19.

What is the temperature range for the display?
The display will operate in the range of -15degC to 50degC (5degF to 122degF).

Can the logger automatically scroll the display to show different channels?
Yes. If the Up or Down key is held down for two seconds, the display will automatically scroll through all channels and enabled status screens. Parameter P18 sets the time for which each screen is displayed.

Note: This feature was introduced in version 6.10 of the firmware.

Can I control the backlight?
Yes, but you need to use care as this also disables the LED functions. See the Low Power code examples for more information.

What does the Attn LED indicate?
The attention (Attn) indicator is illuminated when the logger requires attention. It may be flashing or continuous depending on the reason for attention. Some causes also display a short message on the display (DT80/85 only).

Flashing­—An abnormal reset, power failure, internal failure, or manual hardware reset has occurred. The attention indicator will blink until the user presses a key on the front panel (DT80/85 only) or issues the CATTN command.

Flashing­—The DT80 range logger is unable to log data for one or more schedules. The internal disk may be full, or the job may be configured to log directly to USB device and no device is present. The Attn LED will continue to flash until this condition is corrected (e.g. other data files are deleted) or the job is halted.

Continuous—Attn LED has been turned on by user program (1WARN=1 or SATTN).

NOTE: Note that the DT81 does not have a display or keypad, so the Attn LED can only be turned off by program control e.g. CATTN command.

USB flash disk port (USB master port)

What can I plug into the USB port on the front panel?

  • USB flash disks (or "memory sticks")
  • Other low power (<100 mA) flash-based storage devices e.g. small MP3 players
  • Higher power storage devices e.g. hard drives or larger MP3 players can normally also be used, provided that they are self-powered (e.g. they have their own plugpack and do not draw more than 100 mA from the USB bus)

Note that large capacity devices can take a considerable time to be recognized. Smaller flash-based devices are generally more convenient. Do not use a larger device than you need.

Which USB flash disks are compatible with the logger?
Most brands will work. USB flash disks supporting "U3" functionality can be used, though we would generally recommend a simpler flash disk without "U3" support to avoid any confusion. dataTaker recommends Transcend Jetflash V series or Kingston Data Traveller flash drives because they are well known and commonly available from online and retail outlets.

What can’t I plug into the USB port on the front panel?

  • Bus-powered devices that draw >100 mA from the USB bus, such as hard disk based MP3 players and microdrives
  • USB hubs
  • Non mass-storage USB devices eg. printers, serial port adapters, etc.

The DT80 range logger indicates “USB device unrecognized”. What should I do?

  • Check that the device is a low power mass storage device, as described above.
  • Check that the device operates normally in a Windows computer.
  • Try formatting the device using the logger's FORMAT"A:" command. This should still be possible even if the logger reports that the device is unrecognized. Be aware that formatting the device will erase any data stored on it.
  • Try formatting the device in a Windows computer. As discussed below, select "FAT" format for devices up to 2 GB capacity, and "FAT32" for 4 GB and above.

What sort of file system is used?

The DT80 range supports flash disks formatted using either FAT16 or FAT32. Normally FAT16 should be used for disk sizes up to 2 GB, and FAT32 for sizes 4 GB and above.

Should I format the disk in Windows or the logger?

  • Flash disks up to 512 MB can be formatted in either Windows or the logger. Both will create a FAT16 file system.
  • For disk sizes in the range 1–2 GB, DT80s with firmware version 6.06 or earlier do not format the drive correctly. These drives should therefore be formatted in Windows, as FAT16. This problem has been corrected in DT80 firmware version 6.08.
  • Flash disks 4 GB and over can be formatted in either Windows or the logger. Both will create a FAT32 file system.

Note that formatting the device in the logger may provide an improvement in transfer speed and initial read time. Windows will generally format devices to maximize storage efficiency, whereas the logger will format the device to maximize performance.

Can I program the logger from the USB flash disk device?
Yes, either global or unit specific (using S/N for identification) oninsert.dxc files can be used to program a DT80 range logger without needing a PC to be present.

How can I tell if programming from the USB flask disk was successful?
If the program on the USB flash disk defines a new job, you can tell if it was successful if the display shows that the new job name is now the current job. If the job code has errors in it, the logger will indicate no current job. If the program on the USB flash disk is simply a set of commands (i.e. does not define a new job), there is no direct feedback to the user about success or otherwise. Syntax errors and other types of errors in the commands are not reported to the display. It is good practice to test out your program code in the memory stick before using it in a live application to ensure that it will work correctly.

My program loads from DeTransfer but not from a USB flask disk. What is wrong?
A common problem is that DeTransfer allows you to prevent any backslash characters '\' in your program from being interpreted as control commands by using a double backslash '\\'. A program having double backslashes will successfully program the logger when using DeTransfer, but it will fail without warning when the same program is loaded using a USB flash disk unless the double backslashes are edited back to single backslashes.

Can I prevent the logger from being reprogrammed by the USB flash disk device?
Yes, the logger programming can be locked by using the command LOCKJOB" JobName".

Do I need to have a USB flash disk in the slot to log data?
No, the USB flash disk is intended primarily for transfer of data. If you want to log directly to the USB flash disk, this is an option in the schedule options, although note that it is significantly slower.

Can I log data directly into the USB flash disk?
Yes, but default is internal data storage. If you want to log directly to the USB flash disk, this is an option in the schedule options.

What happens when I remove the USB flash disk while logging into it?          
The logger will continue operating, but it will not log data from schedules set to log to the USB flash disk.

WARNING: Always use the REMOVE USB function before removing any USB device. This will ensure the internal buffers are flushed and files closed. Failure to do so may corrupt your data files when importing the data into Windows.

Is data transfer to the USB flash disk automatic?
No, however automation is possible by including either the CopyD commands in an ONINSERT.DXC file. Create a text file called ONINSERT.DXC containing the following line:

COPYD Dest=A: Format=CSV; REMOVEMEDIA 

Save it to the root directory of a USB flash disk. If this device is plugged into a logger, it will automatically copy all logged data for the current job to the USB device, then shut down the USB device so it can be safely removed.

Alternatively, an Alarm in the logger program can detect the presence of the USB flash disk and run the CopyD command automatically:

ALARM(9SV>0.5){COPYD Dest=A: Format=CSV; REMOVEMEDIA} 

(System variable 9SV has the value 1 if a USB device is present, 0 if not.) The ONINSERT.DXC method is preferred for low power applications as it avoids the need for the logger to regularly run a schedule to test the alarm.

What happens if the USB flash disk is full when I try to transfer data?
The DT80 range logger will indicate "Failed" on active comms port and the LCD (DT80/85 only). If a file was only half written to the USB device, it will be deleted from the USB disk.

Can I open the file directly from the flash disk?
If you have used the CopyD Format=CSV Dest=a: then the file will be in CSV format in the root folder of the A: (USB) drive Navigate to this file. Double click on it, and it will be opened in Excel. If you have unloaded the files in the binary format, use DPlot to open the file then export it as a CSV file. Alternatively, the dump_dbd command line utility can be used to convert data and/or alarm information in a .dbd file into CSV format. Dump_dbd is available from the downloads page. This utility can also be loaded onto a USB drive and configured so that data files can be automatically converted to CSV and displayed in applications such as MS Excel.

Why is my flash drive slow to become available after inserting into the DT80 range logger?
There are two components which affect the speed of a USB stick in the logger–the file-system's cluster (allocation unit) size and the disk capacity. The cluster size represents the smallest denomination of the disk space that a file can use. Windows typically creates systems with more, smaller clusters rather than fewer, larger clusters. This slows down the logger because it is required to count more clusters. The logger’s inbuilt format utility formats disks to have larger clusters so there are fewer to count.

Both the cluster size and the capacity of the file-system on the USB disk can be modified. However, the latter requires additional tools.

Formatting a USB stick with the logger

The dataTaker formats the USB stick using the FAT file system and with an allocation unit (cluster) size of 32K. To do this, you need to enter the FORMAT command in a command window as below:

FORMAT "A:" 

Formatting a USB stick with Microsoft Windows

Using the standard Windows formatting features will create disks optimized for maximum capacity. However, there is a more complete tool available to administrators that offers more options to do the job properly. To format a drive for speed, it is necessary to use the "disk management" administrative tool. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Log on as administrator or as a member of the Administrators group.
  2. Plug your USB drive into the PC.
  3. Click Start, click Run, type compmgmt.msc, and then click OK.
  4. In the console tree, click Disk Management. The Disk Management window appears. Your disks and volumes appear in a graphical view and list view.
  5. Locate your USB drive in the list (ensure it is your removable USB drive letter and that it contains no useful flies as this process will delete all files on the disk).
  6. Right-click the drive letter and click Format.
  7. Select FAT for the file system and 32K for the allocation unit size, check Perform a quick format then click OK.

The drive is now formatted correctly for optimum speed in the dataTaker. A 1 GB USB stick should generally be ready to use within about 7 seconds of being inserted into the logger.

 

Changing the drive size

Today’s USB sticks are being manufactured with higher capacities all the time. This is great for computing but only because computers are also becoming faster. For a low-power device such as the DT80, this causes issues because of the overhead required to read all sectors on the disk. To avoid this issue, we need to reduce the apparent capacity of the USB stick.

Note: DT80/81 firmware Version 6.06 has a bug where 1 G and 2 G drives formatted in the logger cannot be accessed properly by Windows. The workaround is to format in Windows and choose FAT rather than FAT32 to reduce the time taken by the logger to read the drive.

What is the maximum size USB drive I can use with the DT80 range?
512GB. Current flash drive technology (Sep 2006) sees drives of approximately 4–8 GB max. Other drive types, like portable USB drives, can be used if they are externally powered, in which case the 512 GB can be approached.

Note: Performance reduces as the size of the drive increases, so it is better to use a drive of the required size. The upper practical limit is 4 GB in size.

What is the largest data file that I can create?
2GB.

Can I upgrade the firmware with a USB memory device?
Yes. Please refer to Upgrading firmware via USB.

 

Internal data storage

How long will the memory last?
The internal 128 MB Compact Flash card provides storage for up to 10 million readings. By default, each schedule is allocated a 1 MB storage file which is adequate for 90,000 readings. The file size for any schedule can be set to suit the application. A larger internal card can be installed if required. How long the memory will last in time is dependent upon the number of channels set per schedule and the sample rate used for that schedule.

Example:

If 6 channels are logging every 10 seconds, it would take approximately 35 hours to fill a 1 MB file.

By increasing the allocated file size to 10 MB, it would take approximately 15 days to fill the 10 MB file.

Note: Time and Date are included as readings in each schedule. Also, each Alarm uses 256 bytes and consequently reduces data storage accordingly.

File size can be set in units:

  1. Time period.
  2. Records.
  3. Memory(bytes).

What happens when the memory is full?
Each schedule can be set to either overwrite old data (default) or log only until the allocated file has been filled. If set to store to fill, the logger will continue to run as programmed. However, that particular schedule will not store any further data.Other schedules that are set to overwrite, or that have not yet filled their allocated files, will continue to store data.

Can I replace the internal compact flash card with a larger card?
Yes, you can. We only recommend compact flash cards from Cactus Technologies. The largest practical size card supported by the data logger is 4GB.

IMPORTANT: Performance reduces as the size of the card increases, so it is better to use a card of the required size. While most other compact flash cards will appear to work, we do not recommend any other brands of cards as the Cactus Technologies compact flash cards contain additional protection from damage and corruption, especially in the case of loss of power during operation.

How do I replace the internal compact flash card?
Perform this with great care to prevent damaging your dataTaker. Use proper sensitive component electrostatic handling procedures. Please note any damage to the dataTaker will not covered by warranty.

  1. Remove all power.
  2. Remove all terminals.
  3. Remove the blank end cover (Note: 4 screws to be removed).
  4. Pull the purple or yellow battery ribbon to slide out battery.
  5. Disconnect and remove battery.
  6. Remove screws on the bottom of the dataTaker. NOTE: At this stage, take care handling the dataTaker as the PCBs can slide out and damage the display cable.
  7. Remove the battery retaining plate.
  8. Gently and carefully slide the PCB's from the dataTaker just far enough to remove the compact flash memory card.
  9. Slide out the memory card and replace with the new one.
  10. Reassemble the DataTaker in reverse order. When screwing the blank end cover (Step 3 above) back on, take care not to cross-thread the self-tapping screws into the extrusion.

NOTE: Please reinstall the firmware on logger once the logger is reassembled

As stated above any damaged caused by electrostatic discharges, mechanical damage, or any other damaged caused when replacing a memory card will void your warranty.

 

Memory usage

What is meant by pre-allocated files?
The DT80 range loggers use a fixed file size for logging data from each schedule. The size of this file is set as part of the data logger program. As such, the size is allocated before data logging begins. The default size is 1 MB per schedule. The file size can be set in units of time (seconds, minutes, hours, days), records, or bytes for time-based schedules. Schedules with event based triggers use records or bytes.

Where has the overwrite mode switch gone in the programming code?
Overwrite mode is now controlled on a per schedule basis, with separate control for data and alarms within a schedule. Default mode is overwrite on for all schedules.

I need to capture infrequent events over longer time periods but don't want to log all the information between events.
Logged data files can be archived using the CopyD Archive=Yes command. This allows multiple optimally sized files, each containing just the event data you want when used in conjunction with Alarms. Refer to the user manual for detailed command information.

I seem to have less data logged than I should have.
The size of the data store file may be set too small for the application. Set the file size for that schedule via the Trigger Rate–Options menu. Default size is 1 MB per schedule. File size can be set in units of time, records, or bytes for time-based schedules. Schedules with event based triggers use records or bytes.

What is a schedule?                
A schedule is a group of tasks that will be performed using a common rate or trigger. Each schedule has a binary data store file for Data and Alarms related to that schedule. Each schedule has unique trigger settings for rate, file size, logging, etc. Each schedule can be started or halted separately. A total of 13 schedules are available–11 are general purpose, one is for statistical data, and one is a polled (only) schedule. Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on schedules.

How fast can I set the schedule trigger rate?
The DT80 range loggers will accept schedule triggers down to 10 mS (10 T), although actual logging may not be achieved at that rate. The fastest speed that can be obtained in practice will depend on the tasks contained within that schedule and the effect of other tasks being performed by the logger, including writing to memory. For most practical purposes, a setting of 100 mS (100 T) for analog channels would be considered maximum rate. It is possible to trigger continuously, which will run the schedule as fast as possible. Note that digital channels, system channels, channel variables (CVs), and Serial Sensor channels can be scanned at higher rates than analog inputs.

How can I get the DT80 range loggers to sample faster?
By default, the DT80 range loggers will sample a channel for 1 mains period (Default 50 Hz). This is controlled by parameter P11. Changing the sample mains frequency setting to a higher value will cause the DT80 range logger to sample for a shorter period of time. The maximum useful frequency is 1000 Hz.

Increasing the mains frequency will reduce the resolution of the DT80 range logger and may increase the noise component of the measured signal.

Does the DT80 range have “Burst Mode”?
No, the DT80 range logger is not designed for high speed logging. Note: P62=1 leaves mux relays ON between scans which can be used to achieve maximum scanning rate possible on a single channel. To get the best speed from the DT80:

P62=1 Leave relays on

P11=1000 set mains frequency to 1000 Hz

/k Turn off house keeping

Only read 1 channel

Use continuous sampling (do not specify a time).

How can I capture events?                                     
Schedules can be triggered by events such as change of state for a digital input, counter, channel variable, or Serial Sensor activity. In addition, the CopyD command will allow pre- and post-event data to be captured. Refer to the user manual for detailed command information.

Can I have different channels logging at different speeds?
Yes, use more than one schedule. Each schedule has unique trigger settings for rate. A total of 13 schedules are available–11 are general purpose, one is for statistical data, and one is a polled (only) schedule.

Can I choose how much memory to download?
Yes, it is possible to download individual schedules only, or time to time periods of all or any individual schedule, as well as time to end, or beginning to time.

Can I download while the logger is logging?
Yes, downloading or transfer of data from the DT80 range loggers via a host port, FTP, or USB flash drive does not stop data logging but may limit the speed of faster schedules (1 second or faster) and will effect return of data to a PC in real time.

Can I download by time?
Yes, you may download by time to time, start of file to time, or time to end of file, including all schedules or by individual schedule.

How long does it take to download a 1 MB data file?
Using default settings and a 1 MB data store file, standard UNLOAD time is;

  • USB: approximately 3 minutes.
  • RS232: approximately 5 minutes (@57,600 baud).
  • ETHERNET: approximately 3 minutes.

Transfer of binary files using FTP is much faster than standard unload. The standard UNLOAD command unloads ASCII data (in a CSV format). Replay files are also CSV files but include additional information.

What is the fastest way to unload my data logger?
The fasted method is to use an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) over Ethernet. A 1 MB data store file will be transferred in less than 10 seconds, assuming typical LAN performance. The transferred file is in binary format and requires a utility such as DeView to view or export the data.

Can I use an iPhone or iPad?
Yes, there is an app called DT-Remote from Pacific Data Systems that allows you to view data on your iPad or iPhone. DT-Remote is also available for Android systems. Further details are available from the Pacific Data Systems website.

Can I download data using a USB flash disk?
Yes, the CopyD command can be used to either copy or move the binary data files from the internal disk to the USB memory stick. A utility such as DPlot is required to view or export the data from the binary file.

How fast is downloading to the USB flash disk?
This will vary due to performance variations with the USB flash disks, as well as be affected by the size of the files and how much data is actually stored. For a 1 MB file, the approximate transfer time will be 20–30 seconds. Actual transfer time will also be effected by other logger activity. Using CopyD Format=DBD command creates a binary file on the USB flash disk. This does not include time to read and recognize the flash disk on insert.

Can I get my data over the internet?
Yes, by using direct connections within dEX or DeTransfer or with FTP using a browser or FTP client the binary data store, files can be copied from the DT80 range logger. Internet access requires the DT80 range logger to be assigned a visible IP address. You may need to place it outside a firewall to be visible.

A utility such as DPlot is required to view or export the data from the binary file.

Can I FTP data files?
Yes, data store files can be moved using FTP via Ethernet or RS232/PPP. The DT80 range products are capable of both FTP Server and FTP Client (from version 6.10) operation.

  • FTP Server: Allows FTP folders to be accessed from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.
  • FTP Client: As of version 6.10 the DT80 range loggers can also send data to a remote FTP server using the Unload, COPYDATA, MOVEDATA and ARCHIVE commands. See the latest user's manual for more details. This is sometimes termed 'FTP Push' as the logger initiates the data file transfer.

With version 8 firmware, the COPYDATA and ARCHIVE commands have been replaced by the COPYD command. The COPYD command can be passed multiple parameters that allow unloading of data to FTP sites, different data formats, and saving data to internal or USB memory devices. Please refer to the DT80 range User manual for more details

Can I email data files?
Yes. Version 9.08 firmware adds the ability of being able to email the data as an attachment.

Can I read my data using Notepad or Excel?
Standard UNLOAD and REPLAY files are text files using a CSV format, these can be viewed using texteditors or spreadsheets.

Binary data store files need a utility like DeView to view or export the data to a CSV format.

Normal unload generates CSV text based files in either .csv or .dlr (REPLAY) file types. Binary files are those found on the USB flash disk or transferred using FTP.

How do I convert binary data files (.dbd) to CSV format?
The simplest way is to use DeView to open binary data files and then save them to CSV format.

Another option is to use the dump_dbd command line utility that is available from our downloads page. To use this utility you can issue a command such as:

dump_dbd -d data.dbd > data.csv 
  • "-d" means output only data (no header information is output).
  • "data.dbd" is the file to convert.
  • "> data.csv" means send the output of the command to the nominated file (in this case data.csv).

This utility can also be loaded onto a USB drive and configured so that data files can be automatically converted to CSV and displayed in applications such as MS Excel.

What is the accuracy of the DT80 range clock?
Typically, the accuracy is 5 secs/month over 0–40degC or 20 secs/month over full temperature range.

Does the DT80 support NTP?
Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP) is available from V8.00 firmware.

Can the time be updated via GPS?
Yes, there is an example in the code section“Updating time from GPS” from the Data Acquisition Resource Centre.

Is the firmware upgradeable?
Yes. There are a number of options:

  • The upgrade can be performed from within DeTransfer or using a USB or direct serial connection (not a modem connection). Refer to the DT8x User Manual for more details.
  • Using DeTransfer, upgrade files can be placed on a USB flash disk, which can then be used to automatically upgrade a logger when it is inserted. See below.
  • Upgrade files can be loaded onto a remote DT80 using FTP (over Ethernet or PPP), then a command can be issued to perform the upgrade. See below.

Is the firmware the same as for the DT800?
No, the DT80 range and DT800 require separate files for upgrading.

What about DT80 vs DT81 vs DT85?
The firmware is the same for all models of the DT80 range. The firmware detects the hardware and configures itself to suit the hardware. As the DT8x Series 1 does not support dEX, the dEX files are not included in the firmware. The firmware for the DT8x series 2 and 3 is identical.

How can I get new firmware?
New firmware is available from the Data Acquisition Software, Firmware & Drivers page or from a current resource CD.

Can I upgrade my series 1 DT80 range logger to have new features such as the enhanced browser interface?
No, the dEX configuration builder is only available on series 2 & 3.

Can I upgrade my series 1 DT80 firmware to version 7.02 or later?
Yes, you can upgrade to the latest DT80 range firmware, and this will provide bug fixes and minor enhancements. It will not give you access to the series 2 specific features such as the enhanced browser interface.

Can I load an earlier firmware version on to my Series 2 logger?
A Series 2 logger requires firmware Version 7.02 or later. It will not function properly if an earlier version is loaded.

Why did my firmware upgrade fail?

  • If upgrading via RS232 port, then the PC serial port must be set to 57600 baud. No other rates are supported.
  • Double check that you are using a DT80 upgrade file and not a DT800 file (filename should be DT80-xxxxxx.dxf).
  • If DeTransfer is used to perform the upgrade, ensure that the connection you are using is set to "DataTaker 80/800 Series" and that the "Control data and message returns" checkbox is ticked.
  • If using DeTransfer to perform upgrade, make sure DTUSB is shut down.
  • If upgrading using a USB memory stick, then ensure that you do not have a USB cable plugged into the logger simultaneously.
  • It is possible that a USB memory stick firmware update will fail if the logger does not have enough free space available on the internal card. In this case, it will be necessary to update via DeTransfer.

Space required for a firmware upgrade

Previous f/w version

USB stick upgrade

DeTransfer upgrade

5.x,6.x (no web)

30 MB

15 MB

7.x

25 MB

10 MB

8.x

20 MB

5 MB

I’m having problems following a firmware upgrade. Can I downgrade back to the old version?

Yes. Follow the same procedures as for an upgrade.

How do I upgrade firmware via USB flash drive?

  1. Down load the USB version of the firmware.
  2. Save the zip file to a known location on your computer.
  3. Unzip the file to the Root folder of a USB memory device.
  4. Insert the USB memory device in the USB master slot located on the top of the DT80.

You will see messages on the DT8x screen as the firmware upgrade progresses. When the firmware upgrade is finished, the DT80 will reset. To check the upgrade has worked, scroll up or down until you see the display screen with the model and firmware version is displayed. The firmware version should be the same as the firmware version just loaded.

How do I upgrade firmware remotely?

  1. Run DeTransfer.
  2. Connect to the logger using TCP/IP. Either an Ethernet or a PPP (serial/modem) connection may be used. Refer to the User Manual for details.
  3. Select File > Prepare Firmware for PCMCIA Upgrade.
  4. Select the appropriate firmware package (.dxf file).
  5. Three files will be created: LOADER.S, FIRMWARE.BIN and ONINSERT.DXC, and you will be prompted to save each one in turn. Save them to a temporary folder on your computer's hard disk.
  6. Connect to the logger using an FTP client. For example, enter ftp:/ /USER:PASS@192.168.1.122 into the address bar of Internet Explorer (where USER and PASS are the logger's configured FTP username and password). You should see the contents of the root directory of the logger's internal drive (B:), which will normally contain EVENTS, INI and JOBS folders, along with a file called FAILSAFE.
  7. Upload the LOADER.S and FIRMWARE.BIN files into the logger's root directory (eg. by dragging them from the temporary folder where you saved them). It is not necessary to transfer the ONINSERT.DXC file.
  8. Refresh the FTP view to confirm that the files are present. Close the FTP client.
  9. In the DeTransfer send window, type !BOOTIT and press Enter. The upgrade will now start.
  10. Disconnect from the logger in DeTransfer, wait 5 minutes, then re-connect.
  11. Verify the new firmware version by sending TEST0.

Why does my logger report “DT80 not characterized” on the display after upgrading the firmware?
Some early version DT80s were produced with an invalid Ethernet MAC address. If the logger is not being used on an Ethernet network, you can ignore the error by pressing the OK button. Otherwise, you can fix the problem as per the information in the article “DT80 invalid MAC address” below. Version 6.16 of the firmware includes a bug that causes any logger with FF in the MAC address to return the same "DT80 not characterized" message on the display. This error can be safely ignored. Version 6.18 fixes this problem.

DT80 invalid MAC address

A batch of DT80 and DT81 data loggers have been produced with invalid Ethernet Addresses (MAC addresses). The affected units have an Ethernet address of 00-90-2D-FF-FF-FF. The invalid address will actually allow the logger to successfully communicate on an Ethernet network if it is the only logger on the network with such an address. Problems occur if two or more loggers with this invalid address are used on the same network, as the number should be unique. In this case, if two or more loggers are connected to the same network, then communications on the network will fail, possibly affecting all devices connected to the network.

The affected DT80 units were manufactured between April and September 2006. Most serial numbers between 82240 and 82758 are affected. Check the table at the end of this article for a complete listing of affected units. To check the current setting of the logger, issue the command EAA via a terminal interface such as DeLogger, Terminal Window or DeTransfer.

To work-around the problem do not connect more than one logger with an invalid address to the same local network. If the Ethernet port is not used, then the logger can be used as is. Although it would be prudent to correct the problem now in case the Ethernet port is used in the future. To fix the problem, use the serial number of the logger to identify the corresponding Ethernet address on the table below. Then send the following command to the logger to set the Ethernet address correctly. ^123CHARAC K W EAA EthernetAddress Where EthernetAddress is Ethernet address from the table below, do not include any space or '-' characters in the EthernetAddress field. After sending this command, reset DT80 using the SINGLEPUSH command for the new address to take effect.

Now clear the ARP cache on the computer if communicating with the DT80 on the old 00902DFFFFFF address, as the computer will currently be associating the loggers IP address with the invalid Ethernet address. On the Windows command line, enter the command "ARP –d ip_address" to clear the ARP cache of the invalid association. Alternatively, restart the computer this will also reset the ARP cache.

DT80 Serial #

DT80 Ethernet Address

81856

00902D0013B6

82017

00902D0013B7

82240

00902D0013B8

82241

00902D0013B9

82242

00902D0013BA

82243

00902D0013BB

82246

00902D0013BC

82247

00902D0013BD

82248

00902D0013BE

82249

00902D0013BF

82250

00902D0013C0

82251

00902D0013C1

82252

00902D0013C2

82253

00902D0013C3

82254

00902D0013C4

82255

00902D0013C5

82256

00902D0013C6

82257

00902D0013C7

82258

00902D0013C8

82259

00902D0013C9

82260

00902D0013CA

82261

00902D0013CB

82262

00902D0013CC

82263

00902D0013CD

82264

00902D0013CE

82265

00902D0013CF

82266

00902D0013D0

82267

00902D0013D1

82268

00902D0013D2

82269

00902D0013D3

82270

00902D0013D4

82271

00902D0013D5

82272

00902D0013D6

82273

00902D0013D7

82274

00902D0013D8

82275

00902D0013D9

82276

00902D0013DA

82277

00902D0013DB

82278

00902D0013DC

82279

00902D0013DD

82282

00902D0013DE

82283

00902D0013DF

82284

00902D0013E0

82285

00902D0013E1

82286

00902D0013E2

82287

00902D0013E3

82288

00902D0013E4

82289

00902D0013E5

82290

00902D0013E6

82291

00902D0013E7

82292

00902D0013E8

82293

00902D0013E9

82294

00902D0013EA

82295

00902D0013EB

82296

00902D0013EC

82297

00902D0013ED

82298

00902D0013EE

82299

00902D0013EF

82300

00902D0013F0

82301

00902D0013F1

82302

00902D0013F2

82303

00902D0013F3

82304

00902D0013F4

82305

00902D0013F5

82307

00902D0013F6

82350

00902D0013F7

82355

00902D0013F8

82356

00902D0013F9

82357

00902D0013FA

82358

00902D0013FB

82359

00902D0013FC

82360

00902D0013FD

82361

00902D0013FE

82362

00902D0013FF

82363

00902D001400

82364

00902D001401

82365

00902D001402

82366

00902D001403

82367

00902D001404

82368

00902D001405

82369

00902D001406

82370

00902D001407

82371

00902D001408

82372

00902D001409

82373

00902D00140A

82374

00902D00140B

82375

00902D00140C

82376

00902D00140D

82377

00902D00140E

82378

00902D00140F

82379

00902D001410

82380

00902D001411

82381

00902D001412

82382

00902D001413

82383

00902D001414

82384

00902D001415

82385

00902D001416

82386

00902D001417

82387

00902D001418

82388

00902D001419

82389

00902D00141A

82390

00902D00141B

82391

00902D00141C

82392

00902D00141D

82393

00902D00141E

82394

00902D00141F

82395

00902D001420

82396

00902D001421

82397

00902D001422

82398

00902D001423

82399

00902D001424

82400

00902D001425

82401

00902D001426

82403

00902D001427

82404

00902D001428

82405

00902D001429

82406

00902D00142A

82407

00902D00142B

82408

00902D00142C

82409

00902D00142D

82410

00902D00142E

82411

00902D00142F

82412

00902D001430

82413

00902D001431

82414

00902D001432

82415

00902D001433

82416

00902D001434

82417

00902D001435

82418

00902D001436

82419

00902D001437

82420

00902D001438

82421

00902D001439

82422

00902D00143A

82423

00902D00143B

82424

00902D00143C

82425

00902D00143D

82426

00902D00143E

82427

00902D00143F

82428

00902D001440

82429

00902D001441

82430

00902D001442

82431

00902D001443

82432

00902D001444

82433

00902D001445

82434

00902D001446

82435

00902D001447

82436

00902D001448

82437

00902D001449

82438

00902D00144A

82439

00902D00144B

82440

00902D00144C

82441

00902D00144D

82442

00902D00144E

82443

00902D00144F

82444

00902D001450

82445

00902D001451

82446

00902D001452

82447

00902D001453

82448

00902D001454

82449

00902D001455

82450

00902D001456

82451

00902D001457

82452

00902D001458

82453

00902D001459

82454

00902D00145A

82455

00902D00145B

82456

00902D00145C

82457

00902D00145D

82458

00902D00145E

82459

00902D00145F

82460

00902D001460

82461

00902D001461

82462

00902D001462

82463

00902D001463

82464

00902D001464

82465

00902D001465

82466

00902D001466

82467

00902D001467

82468

00902D001468

82469

00902D001469

82470

00902D00146A

82471

00902D00146B

82472

00902D00146C

82473

00902D00146D

82474

00902D00146E

82475

00902D00146F

82476

00902D001470

82477

00902D001471

82478

00902D001472

82479

00902D001473

82480

00902D001474

82481

00902D001475

82482

00902D001476

82483

00902D001477

82484

00902D001478

82485

00902D001479

82486

00902D00147A

82487

00902D00147B

82488

00902D00147C

82489

00902D00147D

82490

00902D00147E

82491

00902D00147F

82492

00902D001480

82493

00902D001481

82494

00902D001482

82495

00902D001483

82496

00902D001484

82497

00902D001485

82498

00902D001486

82499

00902D001487

82500

00902D001488

82501

00902D001489

82503

00902D00148A

82504

00902D00148B

82505

00902D00148C

82506

00902D00148D

82507

00902D00148E

82508

00902D00148F

82550

00902D001490

82551

00902D001491

82552

00902D001492

82553

00902D001493

82554

00902D001494

82555

00902D001495

82556

00902D001496

82557

00902D001497

82558

00902D001498

82559

00902D001499

82560

00902D00149A

82562

00902D00149B

82563

00902D00149C

82564

00902D00149D

82595

00902D00149E

82596

00902D00149F

82599

00902D0014A0

82600

00902D0014A1

82601

00902D0014A2

82602

00902D0014A3

82603

00902D0014A4

82604

00902D0014A5

82605

00902D0014A6

82606

00902D0014A7

82607

00902D0014A8

82608

00902D0014A9

82609

00902D0014AA

82610

00902D0014AB

82611

00902D0014AC

82612

00902D0014AD

82613

00902D0014AE

82614

00902D0014AF

82615

00902D0014B0

82616

00902D0014B1

82617

00902D0014B2

82618

00902D0014B3

82619

00902D0014B4

82620

00902D0014B5

82621

00902D0014B6

82622

00902D0014B7

82623

00902D0014B8

82624

00902D0014B9

82625

00902D0014BA

82626

00902D0014BB

82627

00902D0014BC

82628

00902D0014BD

82629

00902D0014BE

82630

00902D0014BF

82631

00902D0014C0

82632

00902D0014C1

82633

00902D0014C2

82634

00902D0014C3

82635

00902D0014C4

82636

00902D0014C5

82637

00902D0014C6

82638

00902D0014C7

82639

00902D0014C8

82640

00902D0014C9

82641

00902D0014CA

82642

00902D0014CB

82643

00902D0014CC

82644

00902D0014CD

82645

00902D0014CE

82646

00902D0014CF

82647

00902D0014D0

82648

00902D0014D1

82649

00902D0014D2

82650

00902D0014D3

82651

00902D0014D4

82652

00902D0014D5

82653

00902D0014D6

82654

00902D0014D7

82655

00902D0014D8

82656

00902D0014D9

82657

00902D0014DA

82658

00902D0014DB

82659

00902D0014DC

82660

00902D0014DD

82661

00902D0014DE

82662

00902D0014DF

82663

00902D0014E0

82664

00902D0014E1

82665

00902D0014E2

82666

00902D0014E3

82667

00902D0014E4

82668

00902D0014E5

82669

00902D0014E6

82670

00902D0014E7

82671

00902D0014E8

82672

00902D0014E9

82673

00902D0014EA

82674

00902D0014EB

82675

00902D0014EC

82676

00902D0014ED

82677

00902D0014EE

82678

00902D0014EF

82679

00902D0014F0

82680

00902D0014F1

82681

00902D0014F2

82682

00902D0014F3

82683

00902D0014F4

82684

00902D0014F5

82685

00902D0014F6

82687

00902D0014F7

82688

00902D0014F8

82689

00902D0014F9

82690

00902D0014FA

82691

00902D0014FB

82692

00902D0014FC

82693

00902D0014FD

82694

00902D0014FE

82695

00902D0014FF

82696

00902D001500

82697

00902D001501

82698

00902D001502

82699

00902D001503

82700

00902D001504

82701

00902D001505

82702

00902D001506

82703

00902D001507

82704

00902D001508

82705

00902D001509

82706

00902D00150A

82707

00902D00150B

82708

00902D00150C

82709

00902D00150D

82710

00902D00150E

82711

00902D00150F

82712

00902D001510

82713

00902D001511

82714

00902D001512

82715

00902D001513

82716

00902D001514

82717

00902D001515

82718

00902D001516

82719

00902D001517

82720

00902D001518

82721

00902D001519

82722

00902D00151A

82723

00902D00151B

82724

00902D00151C

82725

00902D00151D

82726

00902D00151E

82727

00902D00151F

82728

00902D001520

82729

00902D001521

82730

00902D001522

82731

00902D001523

82732

00902D001524

82733

00902D001525

82734

00902D001526

82735

00902D001527

82736

00902D001528

82737

00902D001529

82738

00902D00152A

82739

00902D00152B

82740

00902D00152C

82741

00902D00152D

82742

00902D00152E

82743

00902D00152F

82744

00902D001530

82745

00902D001531

82746

00902D001532

82747

00902D001533

82748

00902D001534

82749

00902D001535

82750

00902D001536

82751

00902D001537

82752

00902D001538

82753

00902D001539

82754

00902D00153A

82755

00902D00153B

82756

00902D00153C

82758

00902D00153D

Do I have to learn the programming text language?
No, most straightforward data logging tasks can be programmed using the dEX configuration builder functions.

Can I modify a program that is already in a DT80 range logger?
No, a new program must be loaded. The program can be read from the data logger in text form using the SHOWPROG command. You can send the SHOWPROG command in either DeTransfer or the enhanced web browsers command window. The program will be returned in text form. It can then be modified before being loaded back to the DT80 range logger. If the logger has been configured in dEX, the configuration can be recovered from the DT8x then modified and sent to the DT8x when finished. Program constants held in CVs (channel variables) can be modified at any time. Schedule rates can be changed at any time. Any channel can be read at any time without reprogramming by sending the appropriate text commands to the data logger.

I have lost my original data logger program. Can I recover it from the logger?
Yes, a number of functions can assist with reading the settings, configuration, and program (JOB). In most cases, the program can be read from the data logger in text form using the SHOWPROG command.

What debugging tools are available?
The DT80 range has debugging support and error reporting capability. This includes reporting the position of an error in a program as a returned text. In addition two log files are available:

  • UERRLOG returns errors (exceptions/assertions).
  • UEVTLOG returns contents of event log.

Example:
DataTaker 80 E3 - Channel option error at line 3 col 5 [1TK(THERMOCOUP ] marks position of error, in this case quotation marks are missing.

E3 – Channel option error:

  • Illegal channel option used
  • Incompatible options used
  • Option invalid for channel type
  • A new report was added in 7.02 firmware.
  • SERVICEDATA

This includes a number of diagnostic functions that will help us pinpoint problems with firmware and hardware. It also performs tests on the internal disk structure, TCP/IP, etc.

How do I comment my text program files?
Comments can be inserted by use of an apostrophe character ( ‘ ) followed by text comments, up to a carriage return.

Example:
‘ This line returns air temperature 1TK("Ambient")

Commenting by use of lower case characters only is no longer valid, as the DT80 range is not case sensitive for commands.

Are commands case sensitive?
No, commands are accepted in upper, lower, or mixed case. Note: Switch settings are case sensitive.

Are Alarms logged to memory?
Yes, if Alarms are numbered, they are logged to the data store file for the schedule they are tested in. The space allocated for Alarm storage and Overwrite mode are selected via Schedule options.

What can be tested in Alarms?
All input and internal channel types can be tested in Alarms including analog and digital inputs as well as time, channel, and system variables. Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on Alarms.

Can an Alarm be added to a channel being logged?
Yes. V8.00 firmware added the channel option LM (Log to Memory). This causes the measurement to be logged to data memory and any alarm messages to the alarm memory. In firmware prior to V8.00, if a channel needs to be logged as data and also be tested in an Alarm, two channels must be used.

Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on Alarms.

How do I display Alarms?
Only numbered Alarms are displayed, if numbered they are also logged to memory. For Alarms that must be logged but not displayed, use the ND (no display) channel option.

How many numbered alarms can I have?
The maximum allowed is 255 numbered alarms.

Can I email alarm messages?
Yes. V9.08 firmware added a new feature that allow the email of alarm messages to preset email addresses.

How should I read the data out of a logger from my custom application?

  1. Use fixed format (/H) mode when communicating with the logger. This mode was designed to make it easier to write program to interface to the logger. The logger will output historical (unload) data in either fixed or free formats depending on the state of the /H switch. In versions of the firmware prior to Version 6.10, the data format for unloaded data was always fixed format.
  2. Use the CopyD the unload command rather than the Usyntax. It is a fixed format and does not change dependent upon the P31 and P39 parameters.
  3. To get channel names and units etc., use STATUS14 rather than STATUS10. STATUS10 is provided for backwards compatibility. See DT800FormatedModeMessages.doc for more details on STATUS14.
  4. When reading data records, be sure to check what type of data record each one is before storing them in your data file.


There are five types of data records:

  1.  Real-time data records (type 0).
  2. Historical data records (type 1).
  3. Discontinutity records (type 4).
  4. End of schedule records (type 5).
  5. End of unload record (type 3).

Example historical data record. D,012345,"JOB1",2006/08/23,12:30:15,0.12345,1;A,0,35.454,24.4745;0068;3253

The digit immediately preceding the first semicolon indicates the type as described in "Part G — Logging and Retrieving Data - Format of Unloaded Data" in the DT8x user’s manual.

You will probably only want to record historical data records, so ensure that you discard the others. You may want to look for the end of unload record to determine when the data transfer has completed.

You should also check the character count and CRC fields to ensure that the record is not corrupted.

  • The character count is a count of all characters up to and including the semi-colon prior to the actual character count value.
  • The CRC is a standard 16-bit CRC16.

How do I get Microsoft Excel to display seconds and milliseconds in the date and time cells?
The default settings in Microsoft Excel will not display the seconds or milliseconds. The data is there but are not being displayed. To display the full time including seconds and milliseconds:

  • Highlight the column that holds the date and time.
  • Click on "Format" > "Cells".
  • Select "Custom" from Categories list.
  • For ISO time date format, click in the box under the heading "Type", and replace the text "General" with yyyy/mm/dd hh:mm:ss.000 then click OK.

The date and time will now be in the format 2006/10/10 09:36:05.123. You can change the ordering of the time and date to suit your purposes by re-arranging the order of the descriptors. For example to put the time first and use the American date description, you would enter hh:mm:ss.000 mm/dd/yyyy.

Tips for plotting data in Microsoft Excel
The following tips were tested with Microsoft Excel 2000 but should generally apply to other versions.

  • Excel can only resolve timestamps to 1 mS.
  • XY (scatter) plots work better when using a complete timestamp.
  • You will need to create a custom timestamp format such as "dd/mm/yy hh:mm:ss.000" to display full timestamps. When editing full timestamps, the milliseconds are not shown in the editing field.(See previous question).

To ensure that discontinuities in data are shown correctly, make sure that the Tools/Options Chart tab has the "Plot empty cells as " setting set to "Not plotted (leave gaps)".

Why do I only see the first 65,00 lines of data in Excel?
Older versions of Excel are limited to 65,535 lines of data. If you are logging data at a 1 second rate, then there will be 60 seconds x 60 minutes x 24 hours = 86,400 lines of data in one day so Excel can only display 3/4 of a day’s worth of data. Newer versions of Excel can have a maximum of 1,000,000 lines. At a 1 second rate, this is just over 11 days of data.

Do dataTaker loggers have CE and C Tick certification?
Yes, our loggers tested and certified for use against the relevant standards. These documents can be found on our Data Acquisition Resource Centre page.

Error and Fault information from the logger
To assist with troubleshooting your application, the DT80 range loggers include a number of error checking and event logging functions. It is useful to obtain the data from the logger to help identify the subtler problems that may occur. The two log files that are available;

  • UERRLOG returns errors (exceptions/assertions).
  • UEVTLOG returns contents of event log.
  • SERVICEDATA returns a full service data report with extended diagnostics

These are best unloaded using dEX. Select "Monitor the logger" from the opening screen. Select "Diagnostics" under the status bar, and click on Service report. Once the report has loaded right click the mouse, and copy to an email. DeTransfer text interface or via the File menu on the browser interface can also be used. With DeTransfer please make sure the "Keep receive buffer" is checked (under the File menu). To save the report, click on the receive window, then select File > Save as then send the file as an attachment. Please don't use the DeLogger text window as the returned report will be in fixed format mode and hard to read.

Create a Service data report on USB
You can create a Service data report on your USB memory. To do this, create an ONINSERT.DXC file on the root directory of the USB memory, with the following text.

SATTN; SERVICEDATA "A:\Service  Report\Servicedata.txt"; REMOVEMEDIA; CATTN

This will turn on the Attention LED, create a file called "Servicedata.txt" under a "Service Report" directory, remove the USB memory stick, then turn of the Attention LED.

CEM 20 channel expansion module FAQ

What is a CEM20?
The CEM20 is a purpose designed channel expansion module for increasing the channel capacity of the dataTaker DT80 range of data loggers (Series 2 only). Each CEM20 allows 20 universal analog channels to be connected to 1 universal analog channel of the data logger. This effectively expands the maximum analog input capacity of the DT80 to 100 universal analog channels and the DT85 to 300 universal analog channels. See the Product Details and Data Sheet for more details.

What are the input restrictions?
The CEM20 does not restrict the type of analog inputs that can be used. If the input type can be connected to the universal analog channel of the data logger, then it can also be connected via a CEM20.

Can the CEM20 be used with a DT80 range series 1 data logger?
No, the CEM20 only works with Series 2 and 3 models of the DT80 range of data loggers.

Can the CEM20 be used with a DT81/82?
No, the CEM20 does not work with the DT81/82 (Series 1, 2 or 3).

How is the CEM20 connected to the data logger?
The CEM20 uses 1 (4-wire shielded cable) connection for the analog connection to the data logger and 1 (4-wire shielded cable) connection for power and control.

How far away from the data logger can I mount the CEM20?
The CEM20 is connected to the logger in a "daisy chain" arrangement. The total chain length must not exceed 100 m. In other words, the combined distance between each CEM20 in a chain of CEM20s, plus the distance from the logger to the first CEM20, must be no more than 100 m. For example, you could have a logger with two CEM20s, the first one mounted 20 m from the logger and the other mounted up to a further 80 m away from the first CEM20.

The limiting factors for cable length are resistance and capacitance of the wires. The power wires of the cable must not exceed 12 ohms, and the Gnd to Data and Gnd to Clock capacitance must not exceed 20 nF. When measuring resistance, the resistance of all cables in the "daisy chain" are added together. In practice, the resistance of a typical 4 core signal cable will limit the total cable length to about 100 m.

Care should be taken when connecting cable shields. For the power/control cable, the shield should only be connected at the loggers DGND point. If connecting more than one CEM20 to logger, then tie the shields together at each CEM20, rather than connecting to the GND terminal at each CEM20. This will ensure a single ground connection for the shield covering all CEM20 power/control signals and thus avoid any potential ground loops. For the analog signal cable, the shield should only be connected to the DGND terminal or Earth point at the logger end.

IMPORTANT: Always minimise the distances between the logger and any CEM20s to the shortest practical distance to minimise noise and signal losses.

Note: the distance specification was formally 500 mm between each CEM20 and the logger. This specification has changed and is compatible with all existing CEM20 units.

Do I need a separate power supply for the CEM20?
No. The CEM20 is usually powered from the data logger 12 V output. The logger can provide enough power up to the maximum number of CEM20s that can be connected (15 for a DT85). You can use a separate supply if you wish as long as it meets the voltage and current requirements (12 Vdc+-5% 30 mA).

How much power does the CEM20 use?
The CEM20 will draw ~30 mA while sampling (60 mS per sample). It draws ~1 mA if powered but not sampling and zero if not powered. The default behavior of the logger is to turn off the 12 Vdc supply when not sampling, so any attached CEM20s are turned off when no measurements are occurring. The DT80 range user's manual includes examples on calculating power consumption for systems that include the CEM20.

How do I refer to channels located on the CEM20?
The channel number is used to indicate specific channels.

The CEM20 address is in two parts XXYY where XX is the CEM20 address as set on the DIP switches on the end of the CEM20. This address must match the DT80 range channel number the CEM20 is attached and the second part YY is the channel address on the CEM20.

For example: With the DIP switch set to 1 the CEM20 will attach to Channel 1 on the DataTaker and the first analog channel on the CEM20 will be 01.

Each CEM20 address has 99 channels reserved for its use, though only the first 20 are actually used. For example, channels 101–199 refer to channels on CEM20 address number 1. Channels 1201–1299 refer to channels on CEM20 address number 12.

dEX web-based interface FAQ

dEX web interface for the DataTaker DT80 range of data loggers.

What is dEX?
dEX is an enhanced web interface, which is only available on the DT80 range series 2+ models.
dEX allows you to:

  1. Write a configuration to the dataTaker.
  2. Change the default settings in the dataTaker.
  3. Unload data in either binary or CSV format.
  4. Display data mimic, charts, or tabular form.
  5. Check on the health of your dataTaker.
  6. Configure and customize the DT80 dEX web pages.

Refer to the user manual for detailed information about the capabilities of dEX.

What software do I need to install?
dEX itself requires no application for you to install other than a web browser with Adobe Flash 10 (or higher). If you wish to use a USB connection (DT80 & DT85), you will need to install the DtUSB driver supplied on the resource CD.

If you are using DtUSB with a Series 2 DT80 range logger which cannot be found by the DtUSB software, then you may need to follow the steps for upgrading your logger to be dEX compliant. For information on this, please see technical note TN-0040 in our Data Acquisition Resource Centre.

What web browser can I use?
dEX has been tested to run in the following web browsers:

Microsoft Windows

Linux (Ubuntu)

Mac OSX 10.6

  • Internet Explorer 7
  • Internet Explorer 8
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Safari 5 (1)

(1) Requires version 8.04 firmware or above.

How do I make the dEX web interface work from behind a firewall?
The security model of the Flash player will block network traffic over ports used by the dEX web interface unless the logger’s web server informs the Flash player that it is okay to communicate over these ports. This security negotiation between the logger’s web server and the Flash player occurs over port 843. Once the security negotiation was successful and the Flash player knows to allow communications between itself and the logger’s web server, the other ports used by the Advanced web interface can be used. By default, the ports used are: 7700 for the Command window and 80 for the rest of the Advanced web interface (e.g. mimics, status, etc.). When connecting to the logger’s web server using port redirection (or NAT–Network address translation), often a firewall will be between the user and the logger. This firewall will probably, by default, block ports 843 and 7700. This will prevent communications between the logger and the Advanced web interface.

Any firewall between the logger and the user MUST have ports 80, 843, and 7700 open if the Advanced web interface is to be expected to work. Note: The command port on the logger can be changed, so the port on the firewall must also be changed to match.

Port forwarding map

Port forwarding map

Can I use the ‘configure my logger’ page and the ‘monitor my logger’ simultaneously?
Yes. The logger can easily handle multiple clients, simply open the second page in a new tab, and switch backwards and forwards between the two.

Can I configure my logger with dEX?
Yes. There is a configuration tool built into dEX. This interface provides a graphical environment from which to configure your logger. A terminal window with macro buttons is also provided in dEX to allow you to send commands and job text to the logger in a similar way to DeTransfer. This allows you to program the logger using the built in command language.

Series 1 models do not have any way of programming the logger via the web interface.

Can I open a program written in DeLogger or DeTransfer with dEX?
If a program has been written in DeLogger or DeTransfer, then you will be able to use the "Monitor the Logger" section in dEX, but you cannot modify the program.

How do I save my configuration as a RESET job?
Just by clicking on “Save to Logger”. All jobs are now saved as RESET jobs by default.

How do I save my configuration to my computer so I can use it again if I need it?
Click File > Save to Disc. To retrieve the file back, File > Open From Disc.

Can I view real-time data in dEX?
The data available is not real-time, but is the current or most recent data from all scanned channels. The data updates at the same rate as the schedule, and is only displayed at the rate specified when you set up your mimics screens. If you are using the traditional low-bandwidth interface, data updates at 30 second intervals. Custom web pages can update at a faster rate.

Why is the updated time shown on the channels page earlier than the channel timestamps?
The updated time is the time the page was updated according to the local PCs clock. The channel timestamps are the time of the sample according to the logger. Any significant difference in clocks between the logger and the PC may cause the user to be confused.

Can I view historical data in dEX?
Yes, using the chart or history-list mimics in dEX. There are limitations on how much data you can view at once using these mimics (1,000 data points per trace in the chart). Therefore, it is recommended that you download your data and view on a local PC for true analysis purposes.

dEX allows you to download data in ASCII CSV or our binary DBD format, which can easily be imported into DPlot and other common data analysis tools such as MS-Excel. For series 1, the data can be downloaded in DBD format which requires DPlot or Dump_DBD or to view and export data files to other formats.

Can I add more mimic pages?
Yes. From the opening screen, if you select "Customize" then select "Measurement menu", you will be able to add or remove mimic pages. Remember to save the settings when you exit. A maximum of 16 mimics can be assigned to a single page, and up to 5 pages are available.

How do I prevent tampering to my logger or mimics configuration?
First set up your mimics and charts, and save them. To remove access to the configuration section, rename the /www/needa/ folder. Once renamed, the “Logger home” menu will not find the tool in its default directory (because you renamed it) and therefore will not display it as a menu option. To rename the folder /www/needa/, open ‘Windows Explorer' and enter in the address bar ftp://x.x.x.x/b:/www/ where x.x.x.x is your logger’s IP address. Rename the file called ‘needa’ as you would rename any file (if you rename the folder /www/_needa/. You will be able to quickly reinstate the tool if you require it in the future by renaming it back to /www/needa/).

I am using DtUSB, and my browser reports that it cannot connect to dEX, or it says "under construction".
If this is the case, then it is likely that your computer is using a proxy server. To check this in Internet Explorer you need to do the following:

  • Click Tools > Internet Options.
  • Click the "connections" tab.
  • Click "LAN Settings".

If there is a tick in any of the "Automatic Configuration" boxes, then you have a proxy enabled via a script. To get the dEX interface working temporarily, you can uncheck the box, and click OK. The box will need to be re-checked after you have finished using dEX.

If there is a tick in the "Use a proxy server...." box, then you need to make an exception. To do this, click the "Advanced" button, then in the "Exceptions" box below you need to add the text ";127.*" (without the quotes). Click OK to return to the browser window, and then refresh your browser window.

I get Error #2176 when I use the retrieve data button.
With the introduction of Flash player 10, the retrieve data returns an error message. Please upgrade your logger to version 7.08 firmware or above.

Why do I still get Error 2048 when I have all the correct ports forwarded?
This error usually occurs because port 843 is blocked at the PC network end. As suggested by the above diagram, the ports do not only need to be forwarded but need to be opened up on the firewall where the PC is located (network/office).

Why do I get a blank screen when switching to full screen mode?
This is probably related to the flash player. You can try the following things:

  • Updating the flash player to the latest version.
  • Turning off hardware acceleration in the flash player settings.

Why can't I use the advanced web interface?
If you have a DT8x Series 1 logger you will not be able to use the advanced web interface. It must be a Series 2 logger. dEX is not compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 (IE6). Please update your web browser.

I've just upgraded the firmware in my DT80, and now dEX returns errors when I send the configuration to the dataTaker.
If you have been writing configurations for your logger then upgraded the new firmware, the previous version of dEX will be residing in the browsers cache. Clear your browsers cache then reload the dEX interface to update the dEX interface to the current version and remove the errors.

I get a "version info not loaded" error message.
Clear your browsers cache. then reload the dEX interface. This will update the dEX interface to the current version and remove the errors.

I've just upgraded the Flash player on my computer and now dEX doesn't work correctly?
Windows requires a reboot after loading a new flash player. The reboot ensures the new flash player is loaded correctly.

DeTransfer host software FAQ

Some menu commands are unavailable (grayed out).
Check that the various elements of DeTransfer are in an appropriate state for what you're trying to do.

For example: Connect is unavailable when DeTransfer is already connected to the dataTaker, Disconnect and Unload are unavailable when there is no Connection, Cut is unavailable when a receive window is active, send commands are only available when a send window is active and there is a Connection, and so on.

When I transfer configuration files to another computer, my Connections are lost.
Connection information is computer-specific (stored in the computer's System Registry, not in DeTransfer configuration files) because it is based on Windows installed components. It is therefore not available on another computer. You must re-create the Connections on the second computer.

My new Connections disappeared when my computer crashed. Why weren't they saved?
Connection information is saved only when you quit DeTransfer. Therefore, if your computer crashes after you create a new Connection and before you exit DeTransfer, the new Connection details will be lost.

I uninstalled a modem. What happened to the DeTransfer Connections that used it?
When you uninstall a modem, DeTransfer deletes any related Connections.

My new modem is not available in DeTransfer's Connection Configuration dialog box. I installed it when DeTransfer was running.
You must restart DeTransfer for it to recognize a newly-installed modem. Note that installing hardware and software while programs are running is NOT recommended.

I'm using a pair of radio modems between DeTransfer and the data site. How do I configure them?
Unlike wired modems, Windows sees radio modems as a simple direct link. Therefore, treat them as a direct Connection in DeTransfer. For many radio modems, in DeTransfer's Connection Configuration dialog box, click Properties, and select Xon/Xoff in the Flow Control field. Be sure to see your modems' instructions for specific details.

A modem I was using at a remote data site doesn't work when I try to use it at the local (computer) end of the link.
A modem configured to work with a dataTaker must be reconfigured in order to function successfully at the computer end of the link. Reset the modem to its factory defaults.

None of the DDE channels in my dataTaker program are available even though their names include.
The switches on the dataTaker have been set so that the channel name text is not returned with the data and the channels are not available through DDE.

How do I set the dataTaker up to use the DDE channels again?
The switches are in the correct state after a RESET command. If the dataTaker has a program or data which needs to be kept, then send /N and /U to the dataTaker. The DDE channels should now be available.

I'm trying to put a comment into the receive window but when I type no characters appear.
Edit Lock is ON for the receive window. Choose Edit Lock from the Receive menu to allow text entry.

The file to which I am capturing data through backslash commands is unavailable to me because it appears to be open. Why?
You probably haven't used the \f. command to close the capture the file.

How do I modify a configuration file with an autoexec macro that contains a \q command?
You can only do this by opening the configuration file in a text editor that does NOT add any text formatting information. MS Notepad is suitable; MS WordPad and MS Word are not.

In the configuration file, find the section starting with MACRO [autoexec] N {Somewhere in this block, terminated by} ENDMACRO, there will be a \q command. Remove or comment out this command, or rename the macro from autoexec to some other name.

DTWin, DeCipher, DeTerminal won't work on my new computer
These older software packages were written for DOS or very early versions of Windows (3.11, Win95 Win 98) and are not compatible with Windows 2000, XP etc.

DeTransfer replaces all of these older software packages. To make your old DataTaker program files compatible with DeTransfer simply change the file extension on you current program files from .CMD to .DXC

Why do I get an error message when I try to run the firmware upgrade function?

DeTransfer shares the firmware upgrade function with DeLogger. If you uninstall DeLogger it can remove the registration of the firmware upgrade function from the operating system. This results in an obscure error message such as "OLE ERROR 1 IDP_UNABLE_TO_CREATE" when you attempt to upgrade firmware using DeTransfer.

To fix the problem re-install DeTransfer.

DPlot charting software FAQ

Is DPlot a dataTaker product?
No. DPlot is a product created and owned by Hydesoft Computing but is distributed with dataTaker data loggers because of its ability to work with dataTaker DBD files.

How can I obtain a copy of DPlot?
DPlot is included with new dataTaker data loggers and can be purchased from Hydesoft Computing, but be sure to ask for the dataTaker plug in.

How do I get the latest version of DPlot?
DPlot has an update function built in, therefore the process is simple. Click Help > Check for updates, and DPlot will contact the server via the internet, download, and install the new version automatically.

How do I Open DBD files?
During installation, DPlot is associated with DBD files. Therefore, to open a DBD file, simply double-click it within Windows Explorer. Alternatively, a DBD file can be dropped onto a DPlot window, which will open the file in that window.

How do I display or hide a trace?
Traces can be displayed or hidden by clicking View > Hide Curves. This brings up a list from which traces can be selected to be hidden. Alternatively, a hide trace option is made available by right-clicking on the trace directly or by clicking the name of the trace in the legend.

Is there a zoom box?
Yes. Click the Zoom button from the toolbar and drag a box around the area of interest. It is also possible to make this the default behavior of the left mouse button if you click Options > General Options > General, then tick the box marked Click and drag to zoom.

Can I use multiple Y-Axes?
Yes. DPlot currently supports two y-axes. To add a second y-axis, right-click on the main Y-axis, and select Multiple Axes from the pop up menu. This will bring up the Multiple Axes window. To enable a second Y-axis, click Independent Y2.

Is it possible to view alarms using DPlot?
Yes. DPlot can be used to visualize when alarms had been triggered or reset during a recording. If a DBD file is opened, and it contains alarm data, the user will be prompted whether or not to display these alarms. The TRUE state corresponds to an alarm OFF-ON transition, and the FALSE state corresponds to an alarm ON-OFF transition. The alarms are displayed as a set of triangular markers underneath the data traces. These markers are colour-coded based on the alarm number. If the mouse pointer is hovered over an alarm marker then the corresponding alarm state, alarm text and the timestamp are displayed in a box.

NOTE: Alarms cannot be viewed if the data was exported from the logger in CSV format.

How do I view the max, min, and average for data sets?
To view statistics for a dataset, click the List Peaks button on the toolbar (or click Info > List Peak Values). A dialog box will appear, which lists minimum and maximum amplitudes and the point at which they occur, in addition to the mean, standard deviation and standard error for each trace. The same can be accomplished for a subset of the data by clicking the List Peaks in Range button on the toolbar (or clicking Info > List peaks within a range) and selecting a data range using the mouse cursor.

How do I view data from multiple schedules in one plot?
If you wish to plot data from multiple schedules, then open the first schedule and use file > append for the other schedules. If the data from multiple schedules is contained in a single DBD file, then each time the file is opened or appended, simply select a different schedule.

The DBD file contains more than one schedule of data which was not supported in early versions of DPlot. Upgrade to version 2.2.9.3 or later. This can be done online using the Check for updates option under the help menu. Once a later version of DPlot is installed, you will be able to select which schedule you wish to plot.

Can I view the raw data from within DPlot?
Yes. To do this, click the Edit Data button on the toolbar (or Edit > Edit data from the menu). A prompt will appear asking which trace to view the data from. Select the trace, and click OK. The edit data points window will now appear, displaying the raw data for the selected trace.

How do I export DBD data to a CSV file?
To export data (including alarms) to an Excel compatible format (CSV), click File > Save As. A dialog box will appear which allows the data to be saved in many different formats. Select ‘Comma-separated values’ from the dropdown list and type in a filename for the CSV file to save. This file can now be opened in Excel or other spreadsheet software.

Does DPlot support opening CSV files?
Yes. Simply open a CSV file using the open dialog (File > Open) or by dropping a CSV file onto the DPlot window. A dialog box will appear which allows you to select what traces to chart, then clock OK.

DPlot doesn't seem to open any DBD files.
This is because the dataTaker plugin is not selected within DPlot. To fix this, click File > Open, then select L from the file types, and check that dataTaker DBD files are selected as the current file plugin. If the dataTaker DBD plugin is not available, then please contact support so that we may send it to you.

If DPlot was installed from the original CD, then this problem should not occur as the dataTaker plugin is automatically installed and selected during installation.

My traces all have similar colors. How do I change them?
To change the trace colors, click the Colors button on the toolbar or select Options > Colors > Edit from the menu. This allows you to select the trace colors and save them as defaults.

My question is not answered here. What do I do?
Please contact Hydesoft Computing directly. Their current contact details can be found on their website DPLot. Alternatively, if your query is specific to a dataTaker DBD file, then please contact dataTaker support.

Why won't DPlot accept my registration key?
There are a small number of CDs sent out with incorrect user names printed on the label.

  • The user name should be dataTaker user nnnn where nnnn is your unique identification number.
  • If your unique identification number is less than 4 characters, then it must be padded with leading zeros (i.e. if your number is 12 then enter 0012)
  • Please make sure you enter the user name correctly. DataTaker is all one word with no space between data and Taker.

Why does DPlot report "?44544454 Unknown section tag" when opening some DBD files?
The DBD file contains more than one schedule of data which was not supported in early versions of DPlot. Upgrade to version 2.2.9.3 or later. This can be done online using the Check for updates option under the help menu. With the newer version of DPlot, you are able to select which schedule you wish to plot. If you wish to plot data from multiple schedules, then open the first schedule and use File > Append for the other schedules.

I can't upgrade to the full version after my trial version has expired?
If you have been running the trail version of DPlot and it has time expired, you will need to uninstall the trail version before installing the full version.

LabVIEW Driver FAQ

No, you must purchase this separately from National Instruments.

The dataTaker Instrument Driver for LabVIEW has been tested with all DT5/6xx and DT800 products.

The dataTaker DT8x Driver for LabVIEW has been tested with the DT80 range of products.

The Driver has a compiled help file which is installed with the driver. Right click on any of the VIs and select 'help'. The help file is a chm file in the user.lib directory under the documentation directory. Online help is being developed.

The dataTaker instrument driver for LabVIEW was written for LabVIEW 6.0.2 for backwards compatibility. Currently the installer is an executable, which installs the relevant files under the user.lib directory for LabVIEW 6.0.2, 6.1, 7.0, or 7.1 If you have LabVIEW 8.0 or later, you will need to do a custom installation as follows:

  1. Download the DTDRIVER.ZIP file.
  2. Extract this ZIP file to the user.lib directory of your LabVIEW installation.

Yes, it is referred to as the dataTaker DT8x Driver for LabVIEW.  You will need to have LabVIEW 8.2.1 or later and be running firmware 8.02 or later on your DT80 range data logger.

To install it, download the DT8xDRIVER.zip and extract to the relevant user.lib subdirectory of your LabVIEW folder.

Yes, however you may need to modify the VIs. Remove the VIs, DT8x SetCurrentJob.vi, DT8x StartAcquisitionUsingCurrentJob.vi, and DT8x SetStorageMode.vi. These VIs create a text program and send it to the DT8x. As you are using a previously created configuration from the dEX environment, these are not required.

The LabVIEW library demonstrates this.

Yes, however we have not tested this.

For the DT500 range and DT800

You will need to extract the DTDRIVER.ZIP file.

For the DT80 range

You will need to extract the DT8xDRIVER.zip file.

Extract the folder to your "user.lib" directory under the LabVIEW folder. You should be able to see the VIs under your User Libraries sub-palette in your block diagram.

You will need to install NI-VISA for Linux in order to talk to the dataTaker logger over serial. If you are using the dataTaker logger over Ethernet, you will be able to modify the VIs so they are not using the NI-VISA VIs in the lower level Vis.

The documentation for the driver is a compiled HTML file, linked into the dataTaker Vis. It is not certain whether this will work under Linux. However, all the HTML files have been placed on the website. See the above link under the question "Where is the documentation?".

What third party products can I use with a dataTaker data logger?

This page describes a wide variety of third party products that can be used with dataTaker data loggers in a wide range of applications. Where possible, information on using third party products with dataTaker data loggers or links to such information will be provided here.

Disclaimers:

  • Note that we do not sell or directly support these products. However, we may be able to offer limited assistance with aspects related to their use with dataTaker data loggers.
  • Any information supplied here is supplied AS IS with no guarantees. We do not guarantee that the third party products mentioned here will fully integrate with dataTaker products. Any products known not to work with dataTaker products will be removed if we become aware of related problems.
  • Not all of these products have been tested by dataTaker.

Displays can be interfaces to the DT80 range in three main ways:

  1. Via Modbus interface. Many operator panels support a Modbus interface to support PLCs. The DT80 series has a Modbus slave cabability which can be used by the display to poll for values to display.
  2. Via web interface. Panel PC's can support a browser interface. You can use either the built-in web pages or write custom pages to be displayed on a panel PC or similar.
  3. Via serial data. Some simple displays provide a serial interface. The DT80 range and DT800 loggers can output serial data from either the serial sensor port or the serial host port to these types of displays.

Here are some links to suppliers of these types of displays.

  • Maple Systems–Touch screens, Modbus interface
    • Blue series is small, inexpensive, and able to interface to DT80 range via Modbus interface, as tested by DataTaker. The BLU300 is a low cost unit that has been tested using Modbus connected to a DT80 Host RS232 port. It works reasonably well for input using arrow keys. The display is limited in size and best suited to simple tasks with perhaps 4 variables.
    • MAP450B Mini-Terminal has also been successfully interfaced using serial data to DT80 range and DT800 serial channel.
  • Advantech–Touch Panel PC: The browser interface is used to create the required interface on this panel.
  • Weintek–Touch screens (5.7" mono, 5.7" color, 9.4" mono, 10.4" color) with Modbus interface. The MT506TV model has been tested by DataTaker as a Keyboard interface and data/mimic display. The Modbus RS232 port was connected to DT80 HOST port which the latter was configured as a MODBUS slave. The touch screen works well, and it is generally a crisp and bright display at 24 V but the backlighting is dull at 12 V.
  • Vartech Systems–Industrial LCD monitors and panel PCs.
  • Garmin
    • GPS18x 5Hz, samples at 5 Hz for greater location precision
    • GPS18x, samples at 1 Hz for general purpose use
  • Tallysman–TW5210, samples at 1 Hz

Check DT80 and DT800 GPS programming examples.

GPS to CANGate Wiring Information:

CANGate Pin       GPS          Color

-------------------------------------

    1             Vin          Red

    2             Gnd          Black

    4             Tx           White

    8             Rx           Green

    -             Pulse        Yellow

Converters

  • LantronixUDS1100: Ethernet to 1xRS232, use this instead of obsolete dataTaker Ethernet to serial converter for the DT5xx/DT6xx range. A 25 to 9 pin adapter is required.

DT5xx/DT6xx to UDS 1100 Wiring Information:

DT5xx/DT6xx                       UDS 1100

--------------------------------------------

  4 (Rx)                          3 (Tx)

  3 (Tx)                          2 (Rx)

  1 (Sig Gnd)                   7 Sig Gnd

 

1 to 2 link (might be required)

7 to 5 link (might be required)

  • Moxa
  • FTDI–USB to 1xRS232, use this with dataTaker DT500, DT800, and DT80 products when your PC does not have a RS232 serial port available.

Not all USB converters have been found to work reliably, but this unit has been tested by dataTaker.

PSTN Modems

  • Netcomm Wireless
    • IG6000

3G Modems

Radio Modems

  • AvaLAN provides a number of Ethernet radio bridge products that allow you to connect dataTaker data loggers via Ethernet radio links (900 Mhz/2.4 Ghz/4.9 GHz/5.8 Ghz). They also have some nice, reasonably priced, spectrum analyser products that allow you to easily survey the available radio spectrum for radio site surveys and diagnostics.
  • Microhard Spread Spectrum offers SERIAL or Ethernet connection at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz
  • FreeWave offers SERIAL or Ethernet connection at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz

Satellite Modems

  • Wideye
    • Sabre I Remote, a light weight BGAN terminal with easy configuration interface for satellite pointing and dataTaker connection.
  • Hughes
    • 9211, a rugged and durable BGAN terminal
    • 9502, a BGAN terminal with low power consumption.

WiFi (IEEE 802.11b/g) Adaptors

  • DLink
    • AirPlus G DWL-G730AP  Compact unit, allows logger with Ethernet port to have WiFi added
  • Eaton

If you want to simply be able to walk up to the logger with a PC and connect to it without any configuration on the PCs part with the DT80 NOT permanently connected to any WiFi Access Point.

  1. Set the Unit to AP mode, and connect the ethernet cable supplied with the unit to the logger.
  2. Connect to the logger using the USB cable and DeTransfer.
  3. Type: PROFILE"ETHERNET","IP_ADDRESS"="169.254.xxx.yyy" 'where xxx and yyy are two numbers you have chosen.
  4. Type: PROFILE"ETHERNET",""SUBNET_MASK"="255.255.0.0".
  5. Type SINGLEPUSH.
  6. Type IP to check if you have completed the proceedure correctly.
  7. Right click on the wireless ICON in the system tray and select 'View available wireless networks'.
  8. Select the 'Default' network.
  9. It will ask for a Network Key. Enter 0000000000 twice.
  10. The PC will then connect to the WiFi unit. It will look for a DHCP server and will not find one. This process takes around 1 min. There are indications of this process in the system tray. A message will be shown 'Limited or No Connectivity', which means the PC cannot find a DHCP server and has allocated a random IP address in the 169.254.aaa.bbb range to its WiFi interface.
  11. You can now contact the logger using the IP address set in Step 2. The simplest way to test this is to bring up Internet Explorer and enter the IP address in the address line. The DT80 web browser should pop up. The next time your PC locates that network, it will not ask for the network address but it will spend around a minute looking for a DHCP server.

There are many possibilities in connecting this unit to a logger. However, if you do not want to reconfigure your PC each time you connect to the logger, the above is pretty simple. Other modes such as 'AdHoc' have not been tested. If you are going to use the unit to connect to WiFi access point, follow the instructions in the supplied manual and use 'Client mode'.

Zigbee Modems

Digi International XBee-PRO™ Zigbee/802.15.4 RS-232 RF Modem Zigbee RS232 modem

Underwater Acoustic Modem

This has not been tested.

Sensors based on vibrating wire technology are used to measure a variety of parameters such as strain, load, force, pressure, temperature, and tilt. The sensor output is a frequency that is proportional to the strain or tension of a tensioned steel wire within the sensor. Vibrating wire sensors are renowned for their long term stability and ability to transmit a signal over long distances (up to several kilometers). This makes them ideal for use in situations which require measurements over a long period in adverse environments.

Vibrating Wire Interfaces for use with DT80 range

Not all of the DT80 range of data loggers directly support vibrating wire sensors, only the GeoLogger models. To use these types of sensors with non GeoLogger models a third party vibrating wire interface is required. The following vibrating wire interfaces can be used with the dataTaker DT80 range of data loggers.

Canary Systems–VW DSP interface

Features

  • 2 channels of vibrating wire + thermistor inputs.
  • RS232 connection to the logger.
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Expandable using analog multiplexer from same manufacturer. Up to 8 multiplexers with 16/32 channels on each multiplexer.
  • DSP processing of signal gives better readings in noisy environments.

VW DSP Interface

Connection to logger

Power connection: The VW DSP requires nominal 12 VDC, 40 mA. The supply can be from 6 VDC to 16 VDC. This can be supplied directly from the 12 V output of the DT85 or by using a separate power supply. For the DT80/81, you can use the external supply to the logger as long as it in the range 10–16 VDC. Note that the enable terminal on the VW DSP (EN) should be connected to the supply as well to enable normal operation of the unit.

Communications: The VW DSP can be connected to either the serial sensor input (1SERIAL) or the HOST RS232 port (2SERIAL) if it is configured as a second serial sensor port.

To connect the VW DSP to the serial sensor port of a DT85 use the following connections:

DT85       VW DSP

-----------------

12V<------->12V

         |->EN (Loop to 12V)

 

DGND<------>GND

SS Tx<----->RD

SS Rx<----->TD

Keynes Control–VW-108 interface

Features

  • 8 channels of vibrating wire and thermistor inputs.
  • SDI-12 connection to the logger
  • Built in speaker and display for local diagnostics.

For information on the connection to the logger and code example look here.

VW 108 Interface

Sensor output

The VW-108 returns frequency for vibrating wire inputs and raw voltage for the thermistor inputs. To convert the raw voltage to temperature, it must first be converted to resistance. The thermistor conversion from mV(Vout) to Ohms(Rsense) is

SysCurrent (Amps) = (2.5V - Vout) / 3300Ohms

Rsense (Ohms) = Vout /SysCurrent

This assumes that the Input impedance when measuring Vout is relatively high (Meg Ohms). The accuracy of this system also assumes that any cable resistance is negligible compared to the sensor resistance. Once the temperature input is converted to resistance then it can be converted to temperature units by following the thermistor manufactures recommendations.

Logger programming

The following table shows the required channel and options to use to access the relevant channels on the vibrating wire 108 interface.

VibWire 108 Input

DT80/81/85 SDI-12
Channel and Options

0VW

nSDI12(ADa,R001)

1VW

nSDI12(ADa,R002)

2VW

nSDI12(ADa,R003)

3VW

nSDI12(ADa,R004)

4VW

nSDI12(ADa,R005)

5VW

nSDI12(ADa,R006)

6VW

nSDI12(ADa,R007)

7VW

nSDI12(ADa,R008)

0Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R009)

1Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R010)

2Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R011)

3Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R012)

4Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R013)

5Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R014)

6Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R015)

7Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R016)

 

where:

  • n is the digital I/O channel being used to communicate via SDI-12 to to the VW-108 interface. This would be 5 if using Digital I/O 5 on the DataTaker to communicate to the VW-108 interface.
  • a is the SDI-12 address of the particular VW-108 to communicate with on the SDI-12 bus. This would normally be 0 if only one VW-108 interface is being used.

Code example

begin"VW-108 example"

 

' Set measurement rate to 10 seconds.

RA10S

 

' Read the first two vibrating wire sensors and return the frequency

5SDI12("Gauge0 Freq",AD0,R001)

5SDI12("Gauge1 Freq",AD0,R002)

 

' Read the first two thermistor inputs and convert to Ohms

5SDI12(AD0,R009,=1CV,W) 2CV"Gauge0 Temp",=(1CV/((2500-1CV)/3300))/1000

5SDI12(AD0,R010,=1CV,W) 2CV"Gauge1 Temp",=(1CV/((2500-1CV)/3300))/1000

 

' enable logging of readings

logon

 

end

The following companies offer lightning protection products that can be used with the dataTaker range of data loggers.

  • Transtech provides a range of low voltage lightning protectors.
  • Citel provides a range of lightning protection products.

Connector~Tech provides a range of harsh environment connectors to the Australian market.

These tools may be useful for developing applications requiring custom presentation of data.

Gnuplot is a command-line plotting utility software.

Ploticus is a free, GPL, non-interactive software package for producing plots, charts, and graphics from data.

GPS Visualizer is a free online utility that creates maps and profiles from GPS data. This outputs in various formats including Google Earth but requires some manipulation of logged data in CSV or TXT file.

DT80 Series dataloggers

  • Mechanical Data
  • Battery/Power Information
  • Host Communications
  • Web Interface
  • FTP / Email Information
  • Modem Logger Information
  • Modbus Information
  • Keypad and Display
  • USB/Internal Storage Information
  • Schedule Information
  • DT80 Range Input Information
  • Downloading data
  • Real Time Clock
  • Firmware Information
  • Programming and Commands
  • Alarms
  • Developing Host Software
  • Reading data with Microsoft Excel
  • Emissions Testing
  • Troubleshooting errors

What mounting options are available?
Presently, the only mounting option is via the cast end-plates. A DIN rail mount may become available as an accessory in the future.

Can I get a model of the case in Autocad or PDF format to help model my installation?
Yes, you can obtain the model files from our downloads page.

What is the vibration rating for a DT80 range logger?
The DT80 range of loggers are not currently rated.

Drop tested to what?
This has been drop tested only in packaging for shipping purposes.

Can I get “blank” terminal label covers?
A clear label cover is shipped as a standard accessory (not with –AL models). Additional covers available as a spare part. The template for printing custom terminal assignments is on the resource CD and is also available from the downloads page.

What is the MTBF for the DT80 range of data loggers?
dataTaker has calculated the MTBF for the DT80 range of loggers to be >1,000,000 hours.


The MTBF figure was determined by comparing the reported warranty returns across all DT80 range loggers over a 3-year period as of September 2008 against the actual number of installed loggers sold over the same period. Our products are designed to be robust and reliable and we have no hesitation in offering a 3-year warranty to back up that claim.

How long will the internal battery last?
Most of the dataTaker DT80 range of loggers include an internal 6 Vdc lead acid battery that can be used as the sole power source for the logger. The battery running time will vary according to the capacity of the internal battery, complexity of the program, the volume of RS232/USB/Ethernet communications, power management settings (e.g. sleep mode timeouts), sensor excitation requirements, and so on. The following table can be used as a rough guide.
 

Internal battery running time

Sample Rate

DT80/81 (1.2Ahr)

DT85 (4Ahr)

Continuous

3 hours

15 hours

1 second

6.5 hours

1 day

3 second

13 hours

2 days

5 second

1 day

3.25 days

15 second

3 days

9.5 days

30 second

5.5 days

18.5 days

1 minute

10 days

1 month

5 minute

1 month

4 months

15 minute

2.5 months

7 months

1 hour

3.5 months

9.5 months

Please see the section "battery life" in latest DT80 range user's manual for a detailed description on how to calculate the running time for specific applications.

Note: dataTaker models DT82E, DT80G, DT80L, DT80GL, DT85L, and DT85GL do not have a 6 Vdc internal battery.

IMPORTANT: These figures assume that the data logger is running firmware version 6.20 or later, as there were many power saving improvements in that release. The latest firmware version can be download from the downloads page.

What happens when the internal battery is exhausted?
The logger will detect when the battery is getting too flat to operate the logger and then will force itself into a sleep state. The logger should only be restarted once power is restored. It is possible for the logger to reset if you attempt to wake the logger by button press or applying a signal to the wake terminal while the logger is in the forced sleep state.


It is good practice to set your logging Job on reset job to ensure that it will automatically start again if the logger reset due to power failure or other reasons.

With version 8.00 firmware, use the Profile StartUp Run=Current_Job or Profile StartUp Run=JobName where Job name is the name of your program. For firmware versions prior to 8.00, use the RunJobOn Reset command.

Can I add a larger external 6 V battery?
Yes, an external 6 V lead acid battery can be connected and charged by the DT80/81. The external battery should be connected between the 'C' and '-' terminals of the power terminal block.


WARNING: The following points should be considered before using an external 6 V battery:

  • You should always disconnect the internal battery if using an external battery as connecting two batteries in parallel can cause excessive current flow between them if they are at different levels of charge. You can disconnect the internal battery by not linking B and C terminals, however VBAT measurement is not possible with this configuration. To make VBAT measurement possible you should remove the internal battery (i.e. disconnect the battery at the cables internally) and then link B and C terminals.
  • Care must be taken when installing the external battery to ensure it is kept at a similar temperature to the actual logger as the charger is temperature compensated. If the difference in temperature is excessive, then the charger will not charge the battery efficiently.
  • Larger capacity lead acid batteries take longer to charge. The suggested maximum rating of the external battery is 4 A/hr unless an external charging system is used.

Note: The DT85 already includes an internal 4 A/hr so there is no advantage in connecting an external 6V battery as suggested here for the DT80/81.

How do I charge a large external 6 V battery?

6 V battery schematic

If the external 6 V battery is larger than 4 A/Hr, then a separate charging circuit must be used. The internal battery must also be disconnected and the B-C link removed. In this configuration, no other power supply should be connected to the DT80 range loggers.


How do I use a 12 V battery?

12 V battery schematic

The DT80 range loggers cannot charge 12 V batteries so a separate charging circuit must be used. The internal battery may be left connected or can be disconnected if you wish. If the internal battery is connected, it will provide UPS functionality to allow for short disconnection of 12 V power, for example, during maintenance, but this configuration will reduce the overall power system efficiency slightly.

 

 


What happens when the battery is exhausted?
The DT80 range loggers will automatically enter low power sleep mode when the battery voltage drops below a threshold. All data is logged to non-volatile flash memory so no data will be lost. A lithium backup battery maintains date/time and other settings even if the main battery is completely flat. The logger will wake automatically when external power is re-applied.

How often should I replace the lithium battery?
This depends on the usage of the DT80 range logger. If it is always connected to a power supply, replace the battery every three to four years. If it spends a long time on the shelf is only used occasionally, once a year replacement would be required. If you are about to deploy the DT80 range on critical tasks, and you don’t know the last time the batteries were changed, it would be best practice to replace the batteries to ensure your data is safe.

How is the battery level displayed?
The standard display (not available with DT81) indicates current internal battery voltage, current draw, and ‘state’ (charging or discharging). Battery and power supply conditions can also be measured, logged, and alarmed using as part of the DT80 range logger program. The TEST command also returns battery and power supply operating details to a PC using dEX or deTransfer.


NOTE: Battery level in % is displayed but the calculation is only approximate.

What happens if the external supply fails?
The DT80 range logger will continue to run as programmed from the internal 6 V battery until the external supply is restored.


NOTE: The logger may go into low power mode depending on the actual application requirements and logger programming.

Can I power using an external battery?
Yes, you may use 10–30 VDC via main power input terminals or 6 VDC Lead Acid via external battery terminals.


NOTE: Note special considerations when using external 6 V batteries.

Can I use a non-standard external power supply (for example, 24 VDC)?
Yes, you may use a 10–30 VDC via main power input terminals or coaxial connector, with approximately 12 W minimum rating required.

What is the average power consumption when powered from an external source?
The following table can be used as a rough guide when powering the logger from an external 12 Vdc source. Please see the section "Power consumption" in the latest DT80 range user's manual for more detailed information.


IMPORTANT: This table assumes the logger is running firmware version 6.20 or later, which includes various additional power saving measures. Also note that loggers produced before May 2007 will consume an additional 540 mW for all scan rates.

Average power consumption

Sample Rate

DT80/81/85 (mW)

Continuous

2300

1 second

1350

3 second

810

5 second

500

15 second

210

30 second

135

1 minute

100

5 minute

70

15 minute

63

1 hour

60

Can I connect directly to a solar panel for power?
Yes, however for best performance and battery life, we suggest the use of a solar conditioner or regulator.

How can I reduce power consumption?
Most importantly, you should ensure you are running the latest version of firmware. Firmware version 6.20 and later include additional power saving measures that can significantly reduce power consumption. Please see the section "Minimising Power Consumption" in the latest DT80 range user's manual for more details on how to reduce the logger's power consumption.


In addition, you should also consider the overall power consumption of the whole system you are using (logger, sensors, modems, etc.) and ensure that devices are only powered as necessary. You can use the relay (1RELAY) on the logger to automatically turn devices on and off as required by the logger's program.

Can the USB port power DT80 range loggers?
No.

Does the DT80 range loggers have a 5 VDC supply for sensors like the DT500?
The DT8x Range series 3 has a 5 VDC power supply on the analog section to provide power to sensors.

What other power options for sensors are available?
The DT85 and all series 2 and 3 models in the DT80 range do have a 12 V regulated 150 mA max switched output.


The DT80 range loggers provide a number of sensor excitation methods.

  1. Switched excitation of 4.5 V, 200 uA or 2.5 mA.
  2. Switched excitation from an external supply.
  3. Excitation using the Latching Relay.
  4. 12 V regulated 150 mA max switched output. (DT85 and all series 2 models only)
  5. Power output terminal (current limited to 300 mA max) that reflects the external power applied to the logger. (DT85 only)

The 6 V battery and main power supply may be used for sensor supply if care is taken with regard to ground loops and common mode.

NOTE: Switched excitation is only available to that particular channel while it is being measured. Methods 2 and 3 require an external power supply be connected to the appropriate terminals.

How can I control power to a modem?
The DT80 range loggers can control power to a modem or other external device using the Latching Relay, alternatively using the digital output functions to control an external relay. Additionally, the DT85 and DT80 (Series 2 only) can also power low power modems via the 12 V output terminal.


NOTE: Output functions can be controlled by Alarms, keypad Functions, schedules, or DO and IF commands.

How do I tell if external power fails?                      

  • Visually–The display backlight will switch off (DT80/85) or the Power LED will change from a long 3 sec blink to a short 3 sec blink (DT81/85). Note that this visual indication will not be available if parameter P16=32 as this disables all LEDs and the backlight to conserve power.
  • Programatically–The DT80 has an internal channel to measure the supply voltage. Add the command VExt to your program, and the supply voltage will be logged with your data. The internal channels can also be used in alarms.
RA1S ALARM1(VExt<10)"Power failure^M" 
  • Historically–the times at which external power failed and recovered are recorded in the event log (type UEVTLOG to view).

Is this USB 2.0 compliant?
The DT80 range logger USB slave port operates as a "full speed" (12 Mbps) USB 2.0 compliant device. It does not support "high speed" (480 Mbps) operation.

Does the logger appear as a “plug & play” device via USB?
Yes, when the logger is connected, the DTUSB driver will be installed. You may be prompted to insert the driver CD. The driver is supplied with the dataTaker Resource CD or will be automatically located on the web by WinXP.

Can a USB hub be used?
Yes.

Can I connect over the web?
Yes, you can connect to the DT80 range loggers over a web connection in several ways.

  • Full host access and control via a conventional host package e.g. deTransfer or dEX command window
  • FTP using a FTP client or Web browser allows access to data store files. Files can be moved to your PC then data viewed using deView or deLogger4.
  • The logger can also send files to a remote FTP server (see this page for examples and details). This is where the DT80 controls the transfer of data files to a remote FTP storage location such as a website or personal storage site that may be provided by your ISP.
  • Web Interface, Enhanced web interface called dEX (available Series 2 & 3 only) provides data retrieval to CSV, data viewing through tables or graphical mimics plus control and programming via a web browser. Series 1 loggers provide (from Version 6 firmware onwards) a simpler web browser interface (Classic Interface) with data retrieval, current data, and status views from included HTML web pages or user developed custom pages.
  • Modbus SCADA interface for access to current data and status.

NOTE: You can see FTP folders from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.

NOTE: To connect a non-modem DT80 range data logger to the internet, you will generally use a router or modem with router capability. The router must be configured appropriately to make the DT80 visible to the internet. This may include setup of port forwarding for the HTTP, FTP, and COMMAND ports used. Some general information about port forwarding can be found here. More information about setting up router functions generally can be found here.

What if I connect to USB and Serial ports simultaneously?
The USB and serial ports may be physically connected at the same time but the logger will talk to only one external host at a time on a first come first served basis.


NOTE: USB comms is default on reset if both are connected. Communications will autoswitch to whichever port was used last.

Can the logger connect to my Ethernet network?
Yes, using the standard Ethernet port, you can connect to a LAN or WAN.

Can multiple users connect over Ethernet?
Yes, multiuser has limited functionality. The same actual data is returned to all connections. Built-in and custom HTML web pages can be used to display current data and status relevant to a particular user type.

Is the RS232 port isolated?
The RS232 Host port is not isolated, but the Communications/Digital/Power section is isolated from the Analog system.

What sort of RS232 cable do I need?
For connection to a PC, a null modem cable is required, available from dataTaker as P/N PROIBM-6. For connection to a modem, a straight through cable is required, available from dataTaker as P/N PROMOD-6.

DT80 Pin No.

PC Pin No.

2 (RXD)

3 (TXD)

3 (TXD)

2 (RXD)

5 (Sig Gnd)

5 (Sig Gnd)

7 (RTS)

8 (CTS)

8 (CTS)

7 (RTS)

 

DT80 Pin No.

Modem Pin No.

1 (DCD)

1 (DCD)

2 (RXD)

2 (RXD)

3 (TXD)

3 (TXD)

4 (DTR)

4 (DTR)

5 (Sig Gnd)

5 (Sig Gnd)

6 (DSR)

6 (DSR)

7 (RTS)

7 (RTS)

8 (CTS)

8 (CTS)

9 (RI)

9 (RI)

 

USB isolation?
As per RS232 Isolation above.

Do I need to upgrade DeTransfer?
No, but some DeTransfer menu functions are not applicable to the DT80 range loggers at present.


NOTE: Menu items;Prepare card for upgrade

Do I need to upgrade the LabVIEW driver?
No, but some supplied VIs may require minor modification to suit user requirements.

Can I print directly from the logger?
Yes, but only to a serial RS232 printer that will accept standard ASCII text and control characters. These units are commonly known as Line Printers. Other suitable printers may include the small docket printers used for POS (Point of Sale) transactions. USB printers are not supported.

Where can I get the latest USB driver for the DT80 range from the web?
Yes. DTUSB can be downloaded from the dataTakerdownloads page.

Can I change the allocated COM port number when using a USB-to-serial adapter?
Yes.

  1. Run Windows Device Manager. 
  2. Locate the required COM port under "Ports (COM and LPT)" and double click it to display Properties window.
  3. Select Port Settings tab.
  4. Press Advanced.
  5. Select a different unused COM port number.

Why can’t I establish a PPP connection with a modem?
Earlier versions of DT80 firmware did not switch to PPP mode until Windows sent the word CLIENT. Windows sends this automatically when establishing a direct serial PPP connection but not for modem connections. DT80 range firmware version 7.08 and later support proper PPP handling for both direct and modem connections. Upgrade your firmware to the latest version.

If it is not possible to upgrade the firmware, you will need to create and save a login script (.scp file) such as the following:

proc main delay 5
transmit "^M^J"
delay 5
transmit "CLIENT"
waitfor "CLIENTSERVER"
endproc

Enable it in the Network Connection / Properties / Security tab ("Run Script" checkbox).

When I establish a PPP connection to the DT80 range logger, I lose internet access on my host computer.
This can occur if the host PC has two TCP/IP connections–a serial PPP connection to talk to the logger and an Ethernet connection to connect to a local area network and the Internet. The problem occurs if Windows sets the PPP connection as the "default route" rather than the Ethernet connection. In this case, all internet traffic from the host will be forwarded to the logger rather than the LAN.


The following may help resolve this issue:

Open Network Settings on the Windows Control Panel. This should list your PPP and LAN connections. Right click on the PPP connection and select "Properties" > "Networking" tab > "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)" > "Properties" > "Advanced". On the "General" tab, you should now see a checkbox marked "Use default gateway on remote network". Remove the tick from this checkbox. After making this change, it may be necessary to reboot the host PC in order for it to fully take effect.

Can I reduce the time it takes to establish a PPP connection?
When connecting to the logger via PPP, it can take up to 30 seconds to connect, during which time Windows displays "Registering your computer on the network" or similar. This is due to Windows attempting to negotiate various PPP protocol options, which the DT80 range loggers do not support. To speed up this process, try the following:

Open Network Settings on the Windows Control Panel. This should list your PPP and LAN connections. Right click on the PPP connection and select "Properties" > "Networking" > "Settings" button to bring up a "PPP Settings" dialog box. This should contain an "Enable software compression" checkbox. Remove the tick from this checkbox.

Why doesn’t the modem that is connected to the logger auto answer?
Early versions of the DT80 and DT81 did not allow the modem to answer calls if the logger was in its sleep mode. The loggers that have this behavior are as follows:

  • DT80: Serial numbers less than 083355 (sold before 29-Mar-2007)
  • DT81: Serial numbers less than 083798 (sold before 13-Sep-2007)
  • DT85: None affected.

The reason these loggers will not allow the modem to auto answer is that when they are in sleep mode, the DTR (Data Terminal Ready) signal is held inactive, which indicates to the modem to hang-up a call or prevent a new call to be answered. If the logger is awake when the call arrives, there is no problem as DTR is active, and the modem can answer the call.

There are two possible workarounds:

  1. Set P15=2 to ensure that the logger never goes to sleep.
  2. Connect RI on the Host Port connector to CTS on the serial sensor port. This will cause the logger to wake up when the ring starts. You must also ensure that the logger does not go back into sleep mode before the call is established (i.e. while the modems are "training up", establishing common protocols for transmission). Otherwise, the call will be terminated prematurely. To do this, you must ensure that P17 is set to a time period greater than the time it takes to establish a connection. For a PSTN modem this might take 60 seconds.

None of this is necessary with newer model loggers as the RI signal will cause the logger to wake and DTR is held active when the logger is in its sleep mode.

What is a web interface?
The DT80 range has an inbuilt web interface which provides a convenient way to access current data values, status information, and data store files from any web browser (no additional software required).

What is dEX?
dEX is the advanced web interface available only on Series 2 or above loggers. Please see the dEX FAQ for more information.

Can I program my logger from a web browser?
Yes. There is a configuration tool built into dEX. This interface provides a graphical environment from which to configure your logger. A terminal window with macro buttons is also provided in dEX to allow you to send commands and job text to the logger in a similar way to DeTransfer. This allows you to program the logger using the built in command language.

Please refer to the dEX FAQ for questions on the dEX interface.

Series 1 models do not have any way of programming the logger via the web interface.

Can I design my own HTML pages?
Yes, the DT80 Range loggers can serve customized web pages to suit specific applications.

Note: Custom web pages are stored on the internal compact flash drive. This drive is shared with data storage.

Can I dynamically change HTML styling based on measurements from my logger?
Yes, this will require some knowledge of JavaScript. You will also need to download jQuery and store it on your logger. The code below is an example of how to retrieve a value from the logger (100 CV) and style it based on its value.

<html>
    <head>
    <!-- IMPORT THE JQUERY SOURCE FILE -->
    <script type="text/javascript" src="jquery-1.3.2.min.js"></script>
    <!-- THIS IS OUR CODE -->
    <script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript">
        //this code run when the document is loaded
            $(document).ready(function() {
                //these  two lines will automatically strip the SSI comments from the DIV
                var CV100w$("#100CV").text(); //get the number for the hidden DIV
                CV100 = parsefloat(CV100); //convert to a number
                //apply styling to the #100CV DIV based on the value of CV
                if (CV100>10) $("#100CV").css('color', 'red');
                if (CV100<2) $("#100CV").css('color', 'green');
            });
</script>
</head>
    <body>
        <div id="100CV"><!-- #echo var = "100CV(FF3)" --></div>
    </body>
</html>

Does the DT80 range support FTP?
Yes, data store and other files can be moved using FTP via Ethernet or RS232/PPP.

The DT80 range logger products are capable of both FTP Server and FTP Client (Note: FTP Client for data files only–from version 6.10) operation.

FTP Server: Allows FTP folders to be accessed from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.

FTP Client: As of version 6.10, the DT80 range loggers can also send data to a remote FTP server using the CopyD command. See the latest user's manual for more details. This is sometimes termed 'FTP Push' as the logger initiates the data file transfer.

Can the DT80 range send email?
Yes. Email out from all models of the DT80 range was introduced in version 9.08 firmware. Simply down load V9.08 firmware from the downloads page, and update the firmware for your DT80 range logger, and the email feature will be available.

My DT80 has a static IP address on my network, but I can’t send an email of FTP data.
Check you have configured the DNS settings in the DT8x profile to match the network settings. When you use a domain name address (e.g. my.Logger.Network), the network has a Domain Name Server that translates the domain name to an IP address (e.g. 10.70.20.123). When the DT80 has been assigned a static IP address, you also need to set the IP address of the networks Domain Name Server.

What are the result codes for email/FTP transfers?
As of version 7.02 the system variable, 29SV indicates the status of the last outgoing FTP attempt.

0 - no FTP transfers have been attempted

1 - FTP in progress

2 - last FTP transfer was successful

Error codes while connecting to server:

- 1 - can't find server name (name invalid or can't connect to DNS server)

- 2 - can't connect to server (computer not present or no FTP server running)

- 3 - unexpected response from server (rare)

- 4 - logger specified invalid username

- 5 - logger specified invalid password

- 6 - error selecting binary mode on server (rare)

- 7 - error creating or changing to specified directory on server (user may not have permission to create directories)

Error codes during data transfer:

-10 - no response from server (server may be overloaded)

-12 - could not open data connection (server may be overloaded)

-13 - could not read file from logger disk (rare)

-14 - server returned error (rare)

-15 - error sending or receiving (connection may have dropped out)

File transfer Error codes:

-16 - could not open destination file (directory or read-only file exists with same name)

-17 - could not write to file (disk may be full)

Store file error codes:

-20 - problem accessing file

-21 - store file is corrupted

-22 - some other problem

Communication queue:

-30 Unload output file could not be queued for transmission because communications session queue is full

Abort error code:

-99 - Unload was aborted by user (Q command)

What size data plan do I need?
The following information can be useful to understand data usage per month. The table below shows the approximate MB/Month required to transmit data for various combinations of sample rate and number of readings.

Sample Rate

No. Readings

MB/Month(1)

5 seconds

50

325

5 seconds

10

90

5 minutes

50

5.5

5 minutes

10

1.5

1 hour

50

0.5

1 hour

10

0.1

(1) MB/Month value shown is approximate.

Accessing the internal web interface ("dEX") remotely over a mobile network will require additional data traffic. If accessing dEX remotely, you should allow at least 500 MB/month. You do not need to access dEX remotely to configure and operate the logger as this can be done locally before deployment or in the field.

The information above is a guide only. You should be very careful when selecting a data plan as often there are quite expensive excess charges when monthly data allowances are exceeded. If you are uncertain what size plan you need, get a plan with a larger data allowance, monitor your bills for a period to determine worst case usage, then adjust your plan accordingly.

I have a Telstra SIM, but I cannot connect to dEX remotely.
If you want to remotely connect to dEX, and you have a Telstra SIM card, you will need to use the APN "telstra.extranet" (no quotes) rather than the default "telstra.internet". This is because the default APN gives you a private IP address which sits behind Telstra's NAT (firewall) rather than a public IP address that can be accessed via the Internet.

To do this in dEX:

  • Open the settings panel
  • Click the "Modem" option from the list to the left
  • Ensure that the General tab is selected
  • For "Mobile Network", check "Manual"
  • Enter "telstra.extranet" (no quotes) into the APN field
  • Save your settings to the logger

If using "telstra.extranet" prevents your logger from connecting to the Internet, then you do not have a particular code activated on your SIM which enables this feature. In this case you should call your Telstra representative, and request that they enable the code "GPTEXB3" (no quotes).

To test whether you have a public IP address, look at the modem connection screen on the LCD, and you will see an IP address like "123.209.232.51". If you have a private IP address, it will start with a small number such as "10.70.52.7". Given that Telstra only offers dynamic IP addresses, you will also require a DDNS account (dyndns.com is preferred). You will need to enter the details on the DDNS page for host name, username, and password. All other values should be left as default. Once you have a public IP address and DDNS set up, you will only need to enter the "name" into your web browser to get into dEX.

Why do I get a SIM Error?
There are three reasons why you might get a SIM error:

  1. You have not locked your SIM in place–The SIM should click into the slot nicely, and you need to ensure that the lock is moved to the right as per the diagram on the logger.
  2. The SIM PIN is entered incorrectly–If this is the case, you should see a prompt on the LCD to enter your SIM PIN.
  3. The SIM takes too long to warm up (mostly occurs on old SIM cards)–In this case, you will need to change a hidden profile to extend the warm up time for your SIM (the default is 15 seconds). In a command window, type:

PROFILE MODEM ON_DETECTION_DELAY_S=30

If you have confirmed that none of the above fix the problem, then see if the SIM works in a mobile phone.  

What does Comms Problem mean?
Although there are several reasons why this might occur, the most common reason would be because the SIM card is not activated. That is, it cannot register on the mobile network, or the signal strength is so low that the modem cannot see any wireless networks. Check your SIM card by putting it into your phone, and see if it works there. If so, have a look at the signal strength on the phone. If the SIM works and the signal strength on the phone is okay, check or replace your antenna.

I get poor reception. What can I do?
For 3G versions of the logger, you are permitted to use an additional diversity antenna to increase the Receive strength (Transmit strength may be limited by your government/local authorities). You may also require changing the antenna to obtain better signal strength.

What APN can I use?
Each mobile/cellular Provider requires a specific Access Point Name (APN) to be specified in order to connect to Internet services through their network. The trouble is that these APNs are not always easy to find. A Provider may also use different APNs depending on the plan/contract/SIM configuration. The SIM itself does not contain any information about the APN to which it is configured, and because of this the logger cannot automatically configure itself for all SIM cards.

Below is a list of APN's which may work with service providers around the world.

List of APN's

Country / Region

Carrier

APN

User Name

Password

Albania

Vodafone Albania

Twa

 

 

Algeria

Wataniya Algeria

internet

nedjma

nedjma

Andorra

O2 Slovakia

internet

 

 

Argentina

CTI Argentina

internet.ctimovil.com.ar

guest

guest

Argentina

Personal

gprs.personal.com

mobile number

adgj

Australia

Telstra

telstra.internet

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.pcpack

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.datapack

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.extranet

 

 

Australia

Telstra

telstra.bigpond

 

 

Australia

Optus Australia

connect

 

 

Australia

Optus Australia

internet

 

 

Australia

Optus Prepaid

preconnect

 

 

Australia

Three Australia

3netaccess

 

 

Australia

Three Prepaid

3services

 

 

Australia

Vodafone Australia

vfinternet.au

 

 

Australia

Vodafone Prepaid

vfprepaymbb

 

 

Australia

Crazy John's Australia

purtona.net

 

 

Australia

DoDo

dodolns1

 

 

Australia

Virgin Mobile

VirginBroadband

guest

guest

Australia

Blink

splns888a1

 

 

Australia

Internode

Internode

 

 

Australia

Primus

primuslns1

 

 

Australia

TPG

internet

 

 

Australia

Exetel

Exetel1

 

 

Austria

3 AT

Drei.at

 

 

Austria

Mobilkom - Austria

a1.net

gprs@a1plus.at

 

Austria

one

web.one.at

web

web

Austria

Telering Austria

web

web@telering.at

web

Austria

T-Mobile Austria

gprsinternet

t-mobile

tm

Azerbaijan

Azercell

internet

guest

guest

Bahrain

Batelco

internet.batelco.com

 

 

Bangladesh

Grameen Phone

gpinternet

 

 

Belarus

VELCOM

web.velcom.by

web

web

Belgium

BASE/Orange Belgium

orangeinternet

 

 

Belgium

Belgacom MobileProximus

internet.proximus.be

 

 

Belgium

Mobistar Belgum

web.pro.be

mobistar

mobistar

Botswana

Mascom Wireless

internet.mascom

 

 

Brazil

Claro Brasil

claro.com.br

claro

claro

Brazil

Oi Brazil

 

 

 

Brazil

TELEMIGC

gprs.telemigcelular.com.br

celular

celular

Brazil

TIM Brazil

tim.br

tim

tim

British Virgin Islands

CCT Boatphone

cctmobilenet.com

 

 

Bulgaria

GloBul

internet.globul.bg

globul

 

Bulgaria

GlOBUL Bulgaria

internet.globul.bg

globul

 

Bulgaria

Mobitel Bulgaria

mms-gprs.mtel.bg

mtel

mtel

Bulgaria

Vivatel Bulgaria

internet.vivatel.bg

vivatel

vivatel

Cameroon

MTN Cameroon

INTERNET

guest

guest

Canada

Bell Mobility 1

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Bell Mobility 2

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Bell Mobility 3

pda2.bell.ca

 

 

Canada

Wind Mobile

broadband.windmobile.ca

 

 

Canada

Telus ISP

isp.telus.com

 

 

Canada

Telus VPN

vpn.telus.com

 

 

Canada

Telus SP

sp.internet.com

 

 

Canada

Fido Internet

internet.fido.ca

fido

fido

Canada

Rogers Internet

internet.com

wapuser1

wap

Canada

Rogers Internet (VPN)

vpn.com

wapuser1

wap

Chile

Entel Chile

imovil.entelpcs.cl

entelpcs

entelpcs

Chile

Telefonica Movil de Chile

web.tmovil.cl

web

web

China

China Mobile

cmnet

 

 

Colombia

Comcel 3GSM Colombia

internet.comcel.com.co

COMCELWEB

COMCELWEB

Colombia

Tigo

wap.sentelgsm.com

 

 

Costa Rica

Ice Celular

icecelular

 

 

Croatia

Tele2 HR (Croatia)

internet.tele2.hr

 

 

Croatia

Tele2 Croatia

internet.tele2.hr

 

 

Croatia

T-Mobile HR (Croatia)

web.htgprs

 

 

Croatia

T-Mobile HR

web.htgprs

 

 

Croatia

VIPNET Start Croatia

gprs0.vipnet.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIP HSDPA HR (Croatia)

data.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET 3G Croatia

3g.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET HSDPA Croatia

data.vip.hr

38591

38591

Croatia

VIPNET Pro Croatia

gprs5.vipnet.hr

38591

38591

Czech Republic

O2 Czech Republic

internet

 

 

Czech Republic

T-Mobile Czech Republic

internet.t-mobile.cz

wap

wap

D.R.Congo

Vodacom Congo

vodanet

vodanet

vodalive

Denmark

H3 Danmark

data.tre.dk

 

 

Denmark

Orange Denmark

web.orange.dk

 

 

Denmark

Sonofon Denmark

internet

 

 

Denmark

TDC Mobil Danmark

internet

 

 

Denmark

Telia Danmark

www.internet.mtelia.dk

 

 

Dominican R.

Centennial

private.centennialwireless.com

privuser

priv

Dominican R.

Orange Dominican R.

orange.net.com.do

orange

orange

Egypt

MobiNil Egypt

mobinilweb

guest

guest

Egypt

Vodafone Egypt

internet.vodafone.net

internet

internet

Egypt

Etisalat

etisalat

 

 

Estonia

Elisa Estonia

internet

 

 

Estonia

EMT Estonia

internet.emt.ee

 

 

Estonia

RLE Estonia

internet

 

 

Estonia

Tele2 Eesti AS

mobileinternet.tele2.ee

wap

wap

Finland

DNA Finland

internet

 

 

Finland

Elisa Finland

internet

 

 

Finland

Radiolinja

internet

 

 

Finland

Sonera Finland

internet

 

 

France

Bouygues Telecom

ebouygtel.com

 

 

France

B.Telecom Entreprises

a2bouygtel.com

a2b

acces

France

Bouygues Telecom VPN

vpnbouygtel.com

 

 

France

Orange France (3G)

orange.fr

orange

orange

France

Orange Fr Enterprise

internet-enterprise

orange

orange

France

SFR-France

websfr

 

 

Germany

E-Plus

internet.eplus.de

eplus

 

Germany

O2 Germany

surfo2

 

 

Germany

T-Mobile D (Germany)

internet.t-mobile

t-mobile

tm

Germany

Vodafone Germany

web.vodafone.de

 

 

Ghana

Areeba

internet.spacefon.com

guest

guest

Ghana

Vodafone

browse

 

 

Greece

Cosmote

internet

guest

guest

Greece

Q-telecom

internet

 

 

Greece

Telestet (STET)

gnet.b-online.gr

phonenumber

24680

Greece

WIND Greece

 

 

 

Greece

Vodafone Greece

internet

 

 

Guatemala

Comcel Guatemala

Wap.tigo.gt

Wap

Wap

Guatemala

PCS Digital

ideasalo

 

 

Guyana

GT & T Cellink Plus

wap.cellinkgy.com

test

test

Honduras

Alo Pcs

internet.ideasalo.ni

internet

internet

Hong Kong

CSL

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

New World

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

Orange Hong Kong

web.orangehk.com

 

 

Hong Kong

Peoples - Hong Kong

peoples.net

 

 

Hong Kong

SmarTone-Vodafone

internet

 

 

Hong Kong

Sunday

sgprs

 

 

Hong Kong

Three Hong Kong

mobile.three.com.hk

 

 

Hungary

Pannon

net

 

 

Hungary

T-Mobile HU

internet

 

 

Hungary

Vodafone Hungary

internet.vodafone.net

 

 

Iceland

Nova - Iceland

internet.nova.is

 

 

Iceland

Siminn

internet

 

 

India

AirTel

airtelgprs.com

 

 

India

BPL India

bplgprs.com

bplmobile

 

India

BSNL

celloneportal

 

 

India

Hutch India

www

 

 

India

Idea Cellular India

internet

 

 

India

MTNL

mmsmtnlmum

mtnl

mtnl123

India

Orange India

portalnmms

 

 

Indonesia

Excelcomindo Excelcom

www.xlgprs.net

xlgprs

proxl

Indonesia

IM3

www.indosat-m3.net

gprs

im3

Indonesia

Indostat

satelindogprs.com

 

 

Indonesia

Telkomsel Flash

flash

wap

wap123

Indonesia

Telkomsel Data

telkomsel

wap

wap123

Ireland

O2 Ireland

open.internet.public

gprs

gprs

Ireland

Meteor

data.mymeteor.ie

 

 

Ireland

emobile

broadband.eircommbb.ie

 

 

Ireland

3

3internet

 

 

Israel

Cellcom Israel

etecsa

 

 

Israel

Internet Pelephone

internet.pelephone.net.il

pcl@3g

pcl

Israel

Orange Israel

orangeinternet

 

 

Italy

BLU Contratto Italy

INTERNET

 

 

Italy

BLU Prepagata Italy

PINTERNET

 

 

Italy

Blue Italy

internet

 

 

Italy

H3G Italy

tre.it

 

 

Italy

TIM Italy

ibox.tim.it

 

 

Italy

TIM Web

ibox.tim.it

 

 

Italy

Vodafone Omnitel Italy

web.omnitel.it

 

 

Italy

WIND Aziende

internet.wind.biz

 

 

Jamaica

Cable & Wireless Jamaica

wap

 

 

Jamaica

DigiCel Jamaica

web.digiceljamaica.com

wapuser

wap03jam

Japan

NTT DoCoMo

mopera.ne.jp

 

 

Jordan

Zain

zain

 

 

Jordan

Umniah

 

 

 

Jordan

Orange

wap.orange.jo

 

 

Kazakhstan

Beeline Kazakhstan

internet.beeline.kz

internet.beeline

 

Kenya

SafariCom

web.safaricom.com

web

web

South Korea

KTF HSDPA Internet

hsdpa-internet.ktfwing.com

 

 

South Korea

SKTelecom

internet.sktelecom.com

 

 

Kuwait

MTC Kuwait

apn01

anything

anything

Kuwait

Wataniya Kuwait

action.wataniya.com

 

 

Laos

ETL

etlnet

 

 

Latvia

LMT Latvia

internet.lmt.lv

 

 

Latvia

Tele2 Latvia

mobileinternet.tele2.lv

wap

wap

Latvia

Tele2 Baltcom GSM Latvia

internet.tele2.lv

gprs

internet

Lebanon

Cellis FTML

internet.ftml.com.lb

plugged

plugged

Lebanon

MTC Touch Lebannon

gprs.mtctouch.com.lb

 

 

Lithuania

Bite GSM Lithuania

banga

 

 

Lithuania

Omnitel

gprs.omnitel.net

 

 

Lithuania

Tele2 Lietuva

mobileinternet.tele2.lt

wap

wap

Luxembourg

LUXGSM

web.pt.lu

 

 

Luxembourg

Tango

internet

tango

tango

Luxembourg

Tele2Tango HSPA

hspa

tango

tango

Luxembourg

VOXMobile

vox.lu

 

 

Macau

CTM Macau

ctm-mobile

 

 

Macau

M.Hutchison Telecom

web.hutchisonmacau.com

hutchison

1234

R.Macedonia

Mobimak

internet

internet

mobimak

Malaysia

Celcom Malaysia

celcom.net.my

 

 

Malaysia

DIGI

diginet

 

 

Malaysia

Maxis 2G

internet.gprs.maxis

 

 

Malaysia

Maxis 3G (Contract)

unet

maxis

wap

Malaysia

Maxis 3G (Pre-pay)

net

maxis

net

Malaysia

Timecel

timenet.com.my

 

 

Malaysia

TM Touch

internet

 

 

Malta

Go Mobile

rtgsurfing

 

 

Malta

Vodafone Malta

internet

internet

internet

Mexico

Telcel - Mexico

internet.itelcel.com

iesgprs

iesgprs2002

Mexico

Telefonica Mexico

 

 

 

Moldova

MoldCell

gprs

gprs

 

Morocco

Maroc Telecom

iam

wac

1987

Morocco

Medi Telecom

wap.meditel.ma

MEDIWAP

MEDIWAP

Mozambique

Mcel (isp)

isp.mcel.mz

guest

guest

Mozambique

Mcel (wap)

wap.mcel.mz

guest

guest

Mozambique

Vodacom

internet

 

 

Netherlands

KPN Netherlands

internet

KPN

gprs

Netherlands

Orange Netherlands

internet

 

 

Netherlands

Tele2 Netherlands

internet.tele2.nl

 

 

Netherlands

Tele2 Breedband

internet.versatel.nl

username

password

Netherlands

Telfort Breedband

internet

telfortnl

password

Netherlands

T-Mobile Netherlands

internet

 

 

New Zealand

Telecom NZ XT

internet.telecom.co.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Vodafone New Zealand

www.vodafone.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Virgin Mobile

VirginInternet

 

 

New Zealand

CallPlus

www.callplus.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Slingshot

www.slingshot.net.nz

 

 

New Zealand

Telstra Clear

www.telstraclear.net.nz

 

 

Nigeria

Globacom (WAP)

glowap

wap

wap

Nigeria

Globacom (Internet)

gprs

wap

 

Nigeria

MTN Nigeria

web.gprs.mtnnigeria.net

wap

gprs

Norway

Netcom Norge

internet.netcom.no

 

 

Norway

Tele2 Norway

mobileinternet.tele2.no

 

 

Norway

Telenor Norway

telenor

 

 

Norway

Vodafone Norway

internet.vodafone.net

 

 

Pakistan

Ufone

ufone.internet

ufone

ufone

Panama

Cable & Wireless Panama

apn01.cwpanama.com.pa

xxx

xxx

Paraguay

CTI Paraguay

internet.ctimovil.com.py

ctigprs

ctigprs999

Peru

Claro (TIM) Peru

tim.pe

tim

tulibertad

Philippines

Globe Telecoms

www.globe.com.ph

globe

globe

Philippines

Global Philippines

www.globe.com.ph

globe

globe

Philippines

SMART Philippines

internet

witsductoor

banonoy

Philippines

Sun Cellular

minternet

 

 

Poland

ERA Poland

erainternet

erainternet

erainternet

Poland

Idea Poland

www.idea.pl

idea

idea

Poland

Orange Poland

internet

internet

internet

Poland

Plus GSM/Polkomtel

www.plusgsm.pl

 

 

Portugal

Optimus

internet

 

 

Portugal

TMN

internet

 

 

Portugal

Vodafone Telecel Pt.

internet.vodafone.pt

vodafone

vodafone

Qatar

Q-Tel

gprs.qtel

 

 

Reunion(France)

Orange Re

orangerun

orange

orange

Romania

Orange Romania

internet

 

 

Romania

Vodafone Romania

internet.connex.ro

internet.connex.ro

connex

Russian Federation

VimpelCom

internet.beeline.ru

beeline

beeline

Russian Federation

MegaFon RU

internet

 

 

Russian Federation

Motiv

internet.beeline.ru

beeline

beeline

Russian Federation

MTS

internet.mts.ru

mts

mts

Russian Federation

NCC

internet

ncc

 

Russian Federation

NTC (New Telephone Co)

internet.ntc

 

 

Russian Federation

PrimTel

internet.primtel.ru

 

 

Saint Lucia

Cable and Wireless

internet

 

 

Saint Lucia

DigiCel St.Lucia

web.digiceloecs.com

wapoecs

wap03oecs

Saudi Arabia

Mobily Saudi Arabia

web1

 

 

Saudi Arabia

STC

jawalnet.com.sa

 

 

Saudi Arabia

Zain

Zain

 

 

Serbia

Mobtel Srbija

internet

mobtel

gprs

Serbia

Telekom Srbija

gprsinternet

mts

064

Serbia

Telekom Srbija (WAP)

gprswap

mts

064

Serbia

Telekom Srbija (MMS)

mms

mts

064

Serbia

T-Mobile CG (Montenegro)

internet.postpaid

38167

38167

Singapore

M1 Singapore

sunsurf

 

 

Singapore

Singtel Singapore

internet

 

 

Singapore

Starhub Singapore

shwapint

 

 

Slovakia

Orange Slovakia

internet

jusernejm

pasvord

Slovakia

T-Mobile SK (Slovakia)

internet

internet

 

Slovenia

Mobitel UMTS/HSDPA

internet

mobitel

internet

Slovenia

Si.mobil SI

internet.simobil.si

 

 

Slovenia

T-2

t-2.net

 

 

South Africa

Cell-C South Africa

internet

Cellcis

Cellcis

South Africa

MTN South Africa

myMTN

 

 

South Africa

Vodacom South Africa

internet

 

 

South Africa

Telkom

Internet

 

 

Spain

Amena

internet

CLIENTE

AMENA

Spain

Movistar Spain

movistar.es

movistar

movistar

Spain

Orange ES

internet

CLIENTE

AMENA

Spain

Telefonica Spain

movistar.es

movistar

movistar

Spain

Vodafone Spain

airtelnet.es

vodafone

vodafone

Sri Lanka

Dialog GSM (Contract)

www.dialogsl.com

 

 

Sri Lanka

Dialog GSM (Pre Pay)

ppwap

 

 

Sri Lanka

Mobitel SriLanka

isp

 

 

Sweden

S Comviq

internet.tele2.se

wap

wap

Sweden

SpringMobil SE

 

 

 

Sweden

SWEDEN

 

 

 

Sweden

Sweden 3G

 

 

 

Sweden

Tele2 Sweden

mobileinternet.tele2.se

 

 

Sweden

Tele2 Sweden

isplnk1.swip.net

gprs

internet

Sweden

Telenor SE

internet.telenor.se

 

 

Sweden

Telia AB Sweden

online.telia.se

 

 

Sweden

Tre Sweden

data.tre.se

 

 

Switzerland

Orange Switzerland

internet

 

 

Switzerland

Sunrise

internet

 

 

Switzerland

Swisscom Mobile

gprs.swisscom.ch

 

 

Switzerland

Tele2 Switzerland

internet.tele2.ch

 

 

Taiwan

Chung Wa Telecom T.

internet

 

 

Taiwan

Far Eas Tone

internet

 

 

Taiwan

KG Telecom

internet

 

 

Taiwan

Taiwan Cellular

internet

 

 

Thailand

AIS

internet

 

 

Thailand

DTAC

www.dtac.co.th

 

 

Thailand

Orange Thailand

internet

orange

orange

Turkey

Aria

aycell

 

 

Turkey

AVEA

internet

 

 

Turkey

Turkcell Turkey

internet

gprs

gprs

Turkey

Vodafone TR

internet

 

 

Ukraine

Astelit

internet

 

 

Ukraine

Beeline UA

internet.beeline.ua

 

 

Ukraine

Kyivstar

www.kyivstar.net

igprs

internet

Ukraine

UMC Ukraine

www.umc.ua

 

 

United Arab Emirates

du UAE

Du

 

 

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat

etisalat.ae

 

 

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat UAE

mnet

mnet

mnet

United Arab Emirates

Etisalat Wasel

waselmnet

 

 

United Kingdom

3 UK

three.co.uk

 

 

United Kingdom

Jersey Telecom

pepper

abc

abc

United Kingdom

O2 UK Mobile Web

MOBILE.O2.CO.UK

faster

password

United Kingdom

O2 UK VPN

VPN.O2.CO.UK

username

password

United Kingdom

Tesco-prepay

prepay.tesco-mobile.com

 

 

United Kingdom

Orange UK

orangeinternet

 

 

United Kingdom

Three UK

three.co.uk

 

 

United Kingdom

T-Mobile (One2One) UK

general.t-mobile.uk

Username

one2one

United Kingdom

T-Mobile UK

general.t-mobile.uk

t-mobile

tm

United Kingdom

Virgin Mobile UK

goto.virginmobile.com

user

 

United Kingdom

Vodafone (Contract) UK

internet

web

web

United Kingdom

Vodafone (Pre-pay) UK

pp.vodafone.co.uk

wap

wap

USA

AT&T

isp.cingular

 

 

USA

Bell Mobility USA

 

 

 

USA

Cellular One USA

cellular1wap

 

 

USA

T-Mobile (Non-contract)

wap.voicestream.com

 

 

USA

T-Mobile USA

internet2.voicestream.com

 

 

USA

Unicel Info2Go

apn.unicel.com

 

 

USA

Verizon USA 1

 

 

 

USA

Verizon USA 2

 

 

 

Uruguay

ANCEL

gprs.ancel

 

 

Uruguay

CTI Uruguay

internet.ctimovil.com.uy

ctiweb

ctiweb999

Uzbekistan

Uzdunrobita

net.urd.uz

user

pass

Venezuela

Digitel TIM

gprsweb.digitel.ve

 

 

Does dataTaker support Modbus RTU?
Yes, the DT80 range (from firmware version 6 onwards) includes support for Modbus on Ethernet and all serial ports including the Serial Sensor port (DT80/85 only). The DT80 range loggers are Modbus ‘server’ or ‘slave’ and will respond to requests from a Modbus ‘client’ or ‘master’, for example a SCADA system. If using the RS422/485, the Serial port address can be modified by the MODBUS_SERVER profile settings.

NOTE: Note that once configured as a Modbus port, serial ports are not available for other use. Refer to the user manual for detailed Modbus information.

Does dataTaker support Modbus Plus?
No.                                                                        

Can I read historical data via Modbus?        
No, only current data available via Channel Variable (CVs) can be accessed. Large amounts of data can be classified by use of the Histogram functionality which is then available via CVs. For small amounts of historical data, use multiple CVs in a shift register arrangement.

Can I “write” data or values to the DT80 range registers?
Yes, values can be written directly to DT80 range logger Channel Variables (CVs) for use within the data logger program or to be logged. Digital outputs can also be accessed directly by Modbus ‘write’ commands.

Can I program the DT80 range loggers via Modbus?
No, the data logger must be programmed separately.

 

Can the DT80 range read Modbus devices?

Modbus master capability was added in V8.00 firmware.

Does the DT80 range support Modbus TCP/IP?
Yes.

What communications interfaces can be used?

  • Modbus RS232 on the Host Port
  • Modbus RS232, RS422 or RS485 on the serial sensor port
  • Modbus TCP/IP on the Ethernet port

What data types can the DT80 read?

  • 16-bit signed integers
  • 16-bit unsigned integers
  • 32-bit signed integers
  • 32-bit floating point numbers

Can the DT80 read low word/high word data formats?
By default, the DT80 reads data in high word/low word format. Using the channel option MER channel option, the DT80 can read low word/high word data format.

 

Can the DT80 be a Master and slave device at the same time?

Only in Modbus TCP/IP can a device be a master and a slave on the same Modbus network. Modbus RS232, RS422, and RS485 can only have one master per network. The DT80 can be a master device on one network and an RTU on another at the same time. For example, you can have a touch screen HMI connected to the host port, RTU devices connected to an RS485 network on the serial sensor port, and have the DT80 being read by a SCADA system on a TCP/IP connection while the DT80 is reading other RTU devices on the same TCP/IP network.

Keypad

The DT81 doesn’t have a keypad. How do I transfer data to a USB memory device?
You can either have an ONINSERT.DXC program on the memory stick or have the program running in the DT81 that will transfer the data when the USB memory device is inserted. For further details, refer to the USB flash disk port (USB master port) below.

Can I program the logger from the keypad?
No, but it is possible to utilise the programmable Functions to load and run named ‘Jobs’. This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I start and stop a program or schedule from the keypad?
Yes, by using the programmable Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Start"{G}

The current program will start when Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION2="Stop"{H}

The current program will stop when Function2 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.
Note: This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I control logging from the keypad?
Yes, by using the programmable Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Start Logging"{LOGON}

Will turn on logging when Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION2="Stop Logging"{LOGOFF}

Will turn off logging when Function2 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.
Note: This requires previous programming of Functions.

Can I enter data from the keypad?
No, however direct commands can be programmed as Functions. Examples:

  • FUNCTION1="Increase"{1CV=1CV+1}

Increases the value of 1CV each time Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

  • FUNCTION1="Zero"{1CV=0}

Resets the value of 1CV each time Function1 is selected and the ‘OK (Edit)’ key pressed.

Note: This requires previous programming of Functions. Future firmware will allow editing of CVs directly.

How many programmable functions are available?
Ten different functions can be configured at any one time. It is possible to modify the function programming at any time via host PC or USB flash disk with oninsert.dxc file.

Can I remove the two standard Functions for copying data and removing the USB flash disk?
Yes, program Functions 9 & 10 to be blank.

Example:
FUNCTION9=
FUNCTION10=

In text program or in immediate schedule of DeLogger 4 within USER channel type.

Are Functions unique to a Job?
No, the Functions retain their programming unless specifically overwritten or the logger is reset.

What does the “Edit” key do aside from OK functions?
This is reserved for future use.

Can you lock and disable the keypad?
Not directly. However, programmable Functions can be disabled by appropriate programming (Set functions to ‘empty’).

 

Display

How many characters is the display?
The display has 2 lines and 16 characters per line.

How big is the display?
Module dimensions are 85.0 mm x 36.0 mm x 13.2 mm with the viewing area being 66.0 mm x 16.0 mm.
The active area is 56.21 mm x 11.5 mm

How large are the pixels?
The dot or pixel size is 0.55 mm x 0.65 mm with a pitch spacing of 0.60 mm x 0.70 mm.

How big are the characters?
Character size is 2.95 mm x 5.55 mm. Character pitch is 3.55 mm x 5.95 mm. Each character position has a 5 x 10 dot array. Most characters are drawn in a 5 x 7 dot array.

How many channels can I view on the logger display at the same time?
One channel can be viewed at a time. The actual channel or alarm shown is selected by pressing the up and down directional keys on the front panel.

Can I view stored (historical) data on the logger display?
No, only current data (the most recent value for each channel) and Alarm information can be viewed. Current Status information and System Warning message are also displayed.

Can I control which data is available for display?
Yes, you may use the ND channel options for data and Alarms. Status screens can be enabled or disabled for display by P19.

What is the temperature range for the display?
The display will operate in the range of -15degC to 50degC (5degF to 122degF).

Can the logger automatically scroll the display to show different channels?
Yes. If the Up or Down key is held down for two seconds, the display will automatically scroll through all channels and enabled status screens. Parameter P18 sets the time for which each screen is displayed.

Note: This feature was introduced in version 6.10 of the firmware.

Can I control the backlight?
Yes, but you need to use care as this also disables the LED functions. See the Low Power code examples for more information.

What does the Attn LED indicate?
The attention (Attn) indicator is illuminated when the logger requires attention. It may be flashing or continuous depending on the reason for attention. Some causes also display a short message on the display (DT80/85 only).

Flashing­—An abnormal reset, power failure, internal failure, or manual hardware reset has occurred. The attention indicator will blink until the user presses a key on the front panel (DT80/85 only) or issues the CATTN command.

Flashing­—The DT80 range logger is unable to log data for one or more schedules. The internal disk may be full, or the job may be configured to log directly to USB device and no device is present. The Attn LED will continue to flash until this condition is corrected (e.g. other data files are deleted) or the job is halted.

Continuous—Attn LED has been turned on by user program (1WARN=1 or SATTN).

NOTE: Note that the DT81 does not have a display or keypad, so the Attn LED can only be turned off by program control e.g. CATTN command.

USB flash disk port (USB master port)

What can I plug into the USB port on the front panel?

  • USB flash disks (or "memory sticks")
  • Other low power (<100 mA) flash-based storage devices e.g. small MP3 players
  • Higher power storage devices e.g. hard drives or larger MP3 players can normally also be used, provided that they are self-powered (e.g. they have their own plugpack and do not draw more than 100 mA from the USB bus)

Note that large capacity devices can take a considerable time to be recognized. Smaller flash-based devices are generally more convenient. Do not use a larger device than you need.

Which USB flash disks are compatible with the logger?
Most brands will work. USB flash disks supporting "U3" functionality can be used, though we would generally recommend a simpler flash disk without "U3" support to avoid any confusion. dataTaker recommends Transcend Jetflash V series or Kingston Data Traveller flash drives because they are well known and commonly available from online and retail outlets.

What can’t I plug into the USB port on the front panel?

  • Bus-powered devices that draw >100 mA from the USB bus, such as hard disk based MP3 players and microdrives
  • USB hubs
  • Non mass-storage USB devices eg. printers, serial port adapters, etc.

The DT80 range logger indicates “USB device unrecognized”. What should I do?

  • Check that the device is a low power mass storage device, as described above.
  • Check that the device operates normally in a Windows computer.
  • Try formatting the device using the logger's FORMAT"A:" command. This should still be possible even if the logger reports that the device is unrecognized. Be aware that formatting the device will erase any data stored on it.
  • Try formatting the device in a Windows computer. As discussed below, select "FAT" format for devices up to 2 GB capacity, and "FAT32" for 4 GB and above.

What sort of file system is used?

The DT80 range supports flash disks formatted using either FAT16 or FAT32. Normally FAT16 should be used for disk sizes up to 2 GB, and FAT32 for sizes 4 GB and above.

Should I format the disk in Windows or the logger?

  • Flash disks up to 512 MB can be formatted in either Windows or the logger. Both will create a FAT16 file system.
  • For disk sizes in the range 1–2 GB, DT80s with firmware version 6.06 or earlier do not format the drive correctly. These drives should therefore be formatted in Windows, as FAT16. This problem has been corrected in DT80 firmware version 6.08.
  • Flash disks 4 GB and over can be formatted in either Windows or the logger. Both will create a FAT32 file system.

Note that formatting the device in the logger may provide an improvement in transfer speed and initial read time. Windows will generally format devices to maximize storage efficiency, whereas the logger will format the device to maximize performance.

Can I program the logger from the USB flash disk device?
Yes, either global or unit specific (using S/N for identification) oninsert.dxc files can be used to program a DT80 range logger without needing a PC to be present.

How can I tell if programming from the USB flask disk was successful?
If the program on the USB flash disk defines a new job, you can tell if it was successful if the display shows that the new job name is now the current job. If the job code has errors in it, the logger will indicate no current job. If the program on the USB flash disk is simply a set of commands (i.e. does not define a new job), there is no direct feedback to the user about success or otherwise. Syntax errors and other types of errors in the commands are not reported to the display. It is good practice to test out your program code in the memory stick before using it in a live application to ensure that it will work correctly.

My program loads from DeTransfer but not from a USB flask disk. What is wrong?
A common problem is that DeTransfer allows you to prevent any backslash characters '\' in your program from being interpreted as control commands by using a double backslash '\\'. A program having double backslashes will successfully program the logger when using DeTransfer, but it will fail without warning when the same program is loaded using a USB flash disk unless the double backslashes are edited back to single backslashes.

Can I prevent the logger from being reprogrammed by the USB flash disk device?
Yes, the logger programming can be locked by using the command LOCKJOB" JobName".

Do I need to have a USB flash disk in the slot to log data?
No, the USB flash disk is intended primarily for transfer of data. If you want to log directly to the USB flash disk, this is an option in the schedule options, although note that it is significantly slower.

Can I log data directly into the USB flash disk?
Yes, but default is internal data storage. If you want to log directly to the USB flash disk, this is an option in the schedule options.

What happens when I remove the USB flash disk while logging into it?          
The logger will continue operating, but it will not log data from schedules set to log to the USB flash disk.

WARNING: Always use the REMOVE USB function before removing any USB device. This will ensure the internal buffers are flushed and files closed. Failure to do so may corrupt your data files when importing the data into Windows.

Is data transfer to the USB flash disk automatic?
No, however automation is possible by including either the CopyD commands in an ONINSERT.DXC file. Create a text file called ONINSERT.DXC containing the following line:

COPYD Dest=A: Format=CSV; REMOVEMEDIA 

Save it to the root directory of a USB flash disk. If this device is plugged into a logger, it will automatically copy all logged data for the current job to the USB device, then shut down the USB device so it can be safely removed.

Alternatively, an Alarm in the logger program can detect the presence of the USB flash disk and run the CopyD command automatically:

ALARM(9SV>0.5){COPYD Dest=A: Format=CSV; REMOVEMEDIA} 

(System variable 9SV has the value 1 if a USB device is present, 0 if not.) The ONINSERT.DXC method is preferred for low power applications as it avoids the need for the logger to regularly run a schedule to test the alarm.

What happens if the USB flash disk is full when I try to transfer data?
The DT80 range logger will indicate "Failed" on active comms port and the LCD (DT80/85 only). If a file was only half written to the USB device, it will be deleted from the USB disk.

Can I open the file directly from the flash disk?
If you have used the CopyD Format=CSV Dest=a: then the file will be in CSV format in the root folder of the A: (USB) drive Navigate to this file. Double click on it, and it will be opened in Excel. If you have unloaded the files in the binary format, use DPlot to open the file then export it as a CSV file. Alternatively, the dump_dbd command line utility can be used to convert data and/or alarm information in a .dbd file into CSV format. Dump_dbd is available from the downloads page. This utility can also be loaded onto a USB drive and configured so that data files can be automatically converted to CSV and displayed in applications such as MS Excel.

Why is my flash drive slow to become available after inserting into the DT80 range logger?
There are two components which affect the speed of a USB stick in the logger–the file-system's cluster (allocation unit) size and the disk capacity. The cluster size represents the smallest denomination of the disk space that a file can use. Windows typically creates systems with more, smaller clusters rather than fewer, larger clusters. This slows down the logger because it is required to count more clusters. The logger’s inbuilt format utility formats disks to have larger clusters so there are fewer to count.

Both the cluster size and the capacity of the file-system on the USB disk can be modified. However, the latter requires additional tools.

Formatting a USB stick with the logger

The dataTaker formats the USB stick using the FAT file system and with an allocation unit (cluster) size of 32K. To do this, you need to enter the FORMAT command in a command window as below:

FORMAT "A:" 

Formatting a USB stick with Microsoft Windows

Using the standard Windows formatting features will create disks optimized for maximum capacity. However, there is a more complete tool available to administrators that offers more options to do the job properly. To format a drive for speed, it is necessary to use the "disk management" administrative tool. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Log on as administrator or as a member of the Administrators group.
  2. Plug your USB drive into the PC.
  3. Click Start, click Run, type compmgmt.msc, and then click OK.
  4. In the console tree, click Disk Management. The Disk Management window appears. Your disks and volumes appear in a graphical view and list view.
  5. Locate your USB drive in the list (ensure it is your removable USB drive letter and that it contains no useful flies as this process will delete all files on the disk).
  6. Right-click the drive letter and click Format.
  7. Select FAT for the file system and 32K for the allocation unit size, check Perform a quick format then click OK.

The drive is now formatted correctly for optimum speed in the dataTaker. A 1 GB USB stick should generally be ready to use within about 7 seconds of being inserted into the logger.

 

Changing the drive size

Today’s USB sticks are being manufactured with higher capacities all the time. This is great for computing but only because computers are also becoming faster. For a low-power device such as the DT80, this causes issues because of the overhead required to read all sectors on the disk. To avoid this issue, we need to reduce the apparent capacity of the USB stick.

Note: DT80/81 firmware Version 6.06 has a bug where 1 G and 2 G drives formatted in the logger cannot be accessed properly by Windows. The workaround is to format in Windows and choose FAT rather than FAT32 to reduce the time taken by the logger to read the drive.

What is the maximum size USB drive I can use with the DT80 range?
512GB. Current flash drive technology (Sep 2006) sees drives of approximately 4–8 GB max. Other drive types, like portable USB drives, can be used if they are externally powered, in which case the 512 GB can be approached.

Note: Performance reduces as the size of the drive increases, so it is better to use a drive of the required size. The upper practical limit is 4 GB in size.

What is the largest data file that I can create?
2GB.

Can I upgrade the firmware with a USB memory device?
Yes. Please refer to Upgrading firmware via USB.

 

Internal data storage

How long will the memory last?
The internal 128 MB Compact Flash card provides storage for up to 10 million readings. By default, each schedule is allocated a 1 MB storage file which is adequate for 90,000 readings. The file size for any schedule can be set to suit the application. A larger internal card can be installed if required. How long the memory will last in time is dependent upon the number of channels set per schedule and the sample rate used for that schedule.

Example:

If 6 channels are logging every 10 seconds, it would take approximately 35 hours to fill a 1 MB file.

By increasing the allocated file size to 10 MB, it would take approximately 15 days to fill the 10 MB file.

Note: Time and Date are included as readings in each schedule. Also, each Alarm uses 256 bytes and consequently reduces data storage accordingly.

File size can be set in units:

  1. Time period.
  2. Records.
  3. Memory(bytes).

What happens when the memory is full?
Each schedule can be set to either overwrite old data (default) or log only until the allocated file has been filled. If set to store to fill, the logger will continue to run as programmed. However, that particular schedule will not store any further data.Other schedules that are set to overwrite, or that have not yet filled their allocated files, will continue to store data.

Can I replace the internal compact flash card with a larger card?
Yes, you can. We only recommend compact flash cards from Cactus Technologies. The largest practical size card supported by the data logger is 4GB.

IMPORTANT: Performance reduces as the size of the card increases, so it is better to use a card of the required size. While most other compact flash cards will appear to work, we do not recommend any other brands of cards as the Cactus Technologies compact flash cards contain additional protection from damage and corruption, especially in the case of loss of power during operation.

How do I replace the internal compact flash card?
Perform this with great care to prevent damaging your dataTaker. Use proper sensitive component electrostatic handling procedures. Please note any damage to the dataTaker will not covered by warranty.

  1. Remove all power.
  2. Remove all terminals.
  3. Remove the blank end cover (Note: 4 screws to be removed).
  4. Pull the purple or yellow battery ribbon to slide out battery.
  5. Disconnect and remove battery.
  6. Remove screws on the bottom of the dataTaker. NOTE: At this stage, take care handling the dataTaker as the PCBs can slide out and damage the display cable.
  7. Remove the battery retaining plate.
  8. Gently and carefully slide the PCB's from the dataTaker just far enough to remove the compact flash memory card.
  9. Slide out the memory card and replace with the new one.
  10. Reassemble the DataTaker in reverse order. When screwing the blank end cover (Step 3 above) back on, take care not to cross-thread the self-tapping screws into the extrusion.

NOTE: Please reinstall the firmware on logger once the logger is reassembled

As stated above any damaged caused by electrostatic discharges, mechanical damage, or any other damaged caused when replacing a memory card will void your warranty.

 

Memory usage

What is meant by pre-allocated files?
The DT80 range loggers use a fixed file size for logging data from each schedule. The size of this file is set as part of the data logger program. As such, the size is allocated before data logging begins. The default size is 1 MB per schedule. The file size can be set in units of time (seconds, minutes, hours, days), records, or bytes for time-based schedules. Schedules with event based triggers use records or bytes.

Where has the overwrite mode switch gone in the programming code?
Overwrite mode is now controlled on a per schedule basis, with separate control for data and alarms within a schedule. Default mode is overwrite on for all schedules.

I need to capture infrequent events over longer time periods but don't want to log all the information between events.
Logged data files can be archived using the CopyD Archive=Yes command. This allows multiple optimally sized files, each containing just the event data you want when used in conjunction with Alarms. Refer to the user manual for detailed command information.

I seem to have less data logged than I should have.
The size of the data store file may be set too small for the application. Set the file size for that schedule via the Trigger Rate–Options menu. Default size is 1 MB per schedule. File size can be set in units of time, records, or bytes for time-based schedules. Schedules with event based triggers use records or bytes.

What is a schedule?                
A schedule is a group of tasks that will be performed using a common rate or trigger. Each schedule has a binary data store file for Data and Alarms related to that schedule. Each schedule has unique trigger settings for rate, file size, logging, etc. Each schedule can be started or halted separately. A total of 13 schedules are available–11 are general purpose, one is for statistical data, and one is a polled (only) schedule. Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on schedules.

How fast can I set the schedule trigger rate?
The DT80 range loggers will accept schedule triggers down to 10 mS (10 T), although actual logging may not be achieved at that rate. The fastest speed that can be obtained in practice will depend on the tasks contained within that schedule and the effect of other tasks being performed by the logger, including writing to memory. For most practical purposes, a setting of 100 mS (100 T) for analog channels would be considered maximum rate. It is possible to trigger continuously, which will run the schedule as fast as possible. Note that digital channels, system channels, channel variables (CVs), and Serial Sensor channels can be scanned at higher rates than analog inputs.

How can I get the DT80 range loggers to sample faster?
By default, the DT80 range loggers will sample a channel for 1 mains period (Default 50 Hz). This is controlled by parameter P11. Changing the sample mains frequency setting to a higher value will cause the DT80 range logger to sample for a shorter period of time. The maximum useful frequency is 1000 Hz.

Increasing the mains frequency will reduce the resolution of the DT80 range logger and may increase the noise component of the measured signal.

Does the DT80 range have “Burst Mode”?
No, the DT80 range logger is not designed for high speed logging. Note: P62=1 leaves mux relays ON between scans which can be used to achieve maximum scanning rate possible on a single channel. To get the best speed from the DT80:

P62=1 Leave relays on

P11=1000 set mains frequency to 1000 Hz

/k Turn off house keeping

Only read 1 channel

Use continuous sampling (do not specify a time).

How can I capture events?                                     
Schedules can be triggered by events such as change of state for a digital input, counter, channel variable, or Serial Sensor activity. In addition, the CopyD command will allow pre- and post-event data to be captured. Refer to the user manual for detailed command information.

Can I have different channels logging at different speeds?
Yes, use more than one schedule. Each schedule has unique trigger settings for rate. A total of 13 schedules are available–11 are general purpose, one is for statistical data, and one is a polled (only) schedule.

Can I choose how much memory to download?
Yes, it is possible to download individual schedules only, or time to time periods of all or any individual schedule, as well as time to end, or beginning to time.

Can I download while the logger is logging?
Yes, downloading or transfer of data from the DT80 range loggers via a host port, FTP, or USB flash drive does not stop data logging but may limit the speed of faster schedules (1 second or faster) and will effect return of data to a PC in real time.

Can I download by time?
Yes, you may download by time to time, start of file to time, or time to end of file, including all schedules or by individual schedule.

How long does it take to download a 1 MB data file?
Using default settings and a 1 MB data store file, standard UNLOAD time is;

  • USB: approximately 3 minutes.
  • RS232: approximately 5 minutes (@57,600 baud).
  • ETHERNET: approximately 3 minutes.

Transfer of binary files using FTP is much faster than standard unload. The standard UNLOAD command unloads ASCII data (in a CSV format). Replay files are also CSV files but include additional information.

What is the fastest way to unload my data logger?
The fasted method is to use an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) over Ethernet. A 1 MB data store file will be transferred in less than 10 seconds, assuming typical LAN performance. The transferred file is in binary format and requires a utility such as DeView to view or export the data.

Can I use an iPhone or iPad?
Yes, there is an app called DT-Remote from Pacific Data Systems that allows you to view data on your iPad or iPhone. DT-Remote is also available for Android systems. Further details are available from the Pacific Data Systems website.

Can I download data using a USB flash disk?
Yes, the CopyD command can be used to either copy or move the binary data files from the internal disk to the USB memory stick. A utility such as DPlot is required to view or export the data from the binary file.

How fast is downloading to the USB flash disk?
This will vary due to performance variations with the USB flash disks, as well as be affected by the size of the files and how much data is actually stored. For a 1 MB file, the approximate transfer time will be 20–30 seconds. Actual transfer time will also be effected by other logger activity. Using CopyD Format=DBD command creates a binary file on the USB flash disk. This does not include time to read and recognize the flash disk on insert.

Can I get my data over the internet?
Yes, by using direct connections within dEX or DeTransfer or with FTP using a browser or FTP client the binary data store, files can be copied from the DT80 range logger. Internet access requires the DT80 range logger to be assigned a visible IP address. You may need to place it outside a firewall to be visible.

A utility such as DPlot is required to view or export the data from the binary file.

Can I FTP data files?
Yes, data store files can be moved using FTP via Ethernet or RS232/PPP. The DT80 range products are capable of both FTP Server and FTP Client (from version 6.10) operation.

  • FTP Server: Allows FTP folders to be accessed from IE and other browsers. Must be remote request from FTP Client. Supports anonymous login, read-only.
  • FTP Client: As of version 6.10 the DT80 range loggers can also send data to a remote FTP server using the Unload, COPYDATA, MOVEDATA and ARCHIVE commands. See the latest user's manual for more details. This is sometimes termed 'FTP Push' as the logger initiates the data file transfer.

With version 8 firmware, the COPYDATA and ARCHIVE commands have been replaced by the COPYD command. The COPYD command can be passed multiple parameters that allow unloading of data to FTP sites, different data formats, and saving data to internal or USB memory devices. Please refer to the DT80 range User manual for more details

Can I email data files?
Yes. Version 9.08 firmware adds the ability of being able to email the data as an attachment.

Can I read my data using Notepad or Excel?
Standard UNLOAD and REPLAY files are text files using a CSV format, these can be viewed using texteditors or spreadsheets.

Binary data store files need a utility like DeView to view or export the data to a CSV format.

Normal unload generates CSV text based files in either .csv or .dlr (REPLAY) file types. Binary files are those found on the USB flash disk or transferred using FTP.

How do I convert binary data files (.dbd) to CSV format?
The simplest way is to use DeView to open binary data files and then save them to CSV format.

Another option is to use the dump_dbd command line utility that is available from our downloads page. To use this utility you can issue a command such as:

dump_dbd -d data.dbd > data.csv 
  • "-d" means output only data (no header information is output).
  • "data.dbd" is the file to convert.
  • "> data.csv" means send the output of the command to the nominated file (in this case data.csv).

This utility can also be loaded onto a USB drive and configured so that data files can be automatically converted to CSV and displayed in applications such as MS Excel.

What is the accuracy of the DT80 range clock?
Typically, the accuracy is 5 secs/month over 0–40degC or 20 secs/month over full temperature range.

Does the DT80 support NTP?
Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP) is available from V8.00 firmware.

Can the time be updated via GPS?
Yes, there is an example in the code section“Updating time from GPS” from the Data Acquisition Resource Centre.

Is the firmware upgradeable?
Yes. There are a number of options:

  • The upgrade can be performed from within DeTransfer or using a USB or direct serial connection (not a modem connection). Refer to the DT8x User Manual for more details.
  • Using DeTransfer, upgrade files can be placed on a USB flash disk, which can then be used to automatically upgrade a logger when it is inserted. See below.
  • Upgrade files can be loaded onto a remote DT80 using FTP (over Ethernet or PPP), then a command can be issued to perform the upgrade. See below.

Is the firmware the same as for the DT800?
No, the DT80 range and DT800 require separate files for upgrading.

What about DT80 vs DT81 vs DT85?
The firmware is the same for all models of the DT80 range. The firmware detects the hardware and configures itself to suit the hardware. As the DT8x Series 1 does not support dEX, the dEX files are not included in the firmware. The firmware for the DT8x series 2 and 3 is identical.

How can I get new firmware?
New firmware is available from the Data Acquisition Software, Firmware & Drivers page or from a current resource CD.

Can I upgrade my series 1 DT80 range logger to have new features such as the enhanced browser interface?
No, the dEX configuration builder is only available on series 2 & 3.

Can I upgrade my series 1 DT80 firmware to version 7.02 or later?
Yes, you can upgrade to the latest DT80 range firmware, and this will provide bug fixes and minor enhancements. It will not give you access to the series 2 specific features such as the enhanced browser interface.

Can I load an earlier firmware version on to my Series 2 logger?
A Series 2 logger requires firmware Version 7.02 or later. It will not function properly if an earlier version is loaded.

Why did my firmware upgrade fail?

  • If upgrading via RS232 port, then the PC serial port must be set to 57600 baud. No other rates are supported.
  • Double check that you are using a DT80 upgrade file and not a DT800 file (filename should be DT80-xxxxxx.dxf).
  • If DeTransfer is used to perform the upgrade, ensure that the connection you are using is set to "DataTaker 80/800 Series" and that the "Control data and message returns" checkbox is ticked.
  • If using DeTransfer to perform upgrade, make sure DTUSB is shut down.
  • If upgrading using a USB memory stick, then ensure that you do not have a USB cable plugged into the logger simultaneously.
  • It is possible that a USB memory stick firmware update will fail if the logger does not have enough free space available on the internal card. In this case, it will be necessary to update via DeTransfer.

Space required for a firmware upgrade

Previous f/w version

USB stick upgrade

DeTransfer upgrade

5.x,6.x (no web)

30 MB

15 MB

7.x

25 MB

10 MB

8.x

20 MB

5 MB

I’m having problems following a firmware upgrade. Can I downgrade back to the old version?

Yes. Follow the same procedures as for an upgrade.

How do I upgrade firmware via USB flash drive?

  1. Down load the USB version of the firmware.
  2. Save the zip file to a known location on your computer.
  3. Unzip the file to the Root folder of a USB memory device.
  4. Insert the USB memory device in the USB master slot located on the top of the DT80.

You will see messages on the DT8x screen as the firmware upgrade progresses. When the firmware upgrade is finished, the DT80 will reset. To check the upgrade has worked, scroll up or down until you see the display screen with the model and firmware version is displayed. The firmware version should be the same as the firmware version just loaded.

How do I upgrade firmware remotely?

  1. Run DeTransfer.
  2. Connect to the logger using TCP/IP. Either an Ethernet or a PPP (serial/modem) connection may be used. Refer to the User Manual for details.
  3. Select File > Prepare Firmware for PCMCIA Upgrade.
  4. Select the appropriate firmware package (.dxf file).
  5. Three files will be created: LOADER.S, FIRMWARE.BIN and ONINSERT.DXC, and you will be prompted to save each one in turn. Save them to a temporary folder on your computer's hard disk.
  6. Connect to the logger using an FTP client. For example, enter ftp:/ /USER:PASS@192.168.1.122 into the address bar of Internet Explorer (where USER and PASS are the logger's configured FTP username and password). You should see the contents of the root directory of the logger's internal drive (B:), which will normally contain EVENTS, INI and JOBS folders, along with a file called FAILSAFE.
  7. Upload the LOADER.S and FIRMWARE.BIN files into the logger's root directory (eg. by dragging them from the temporary folder where you saved them). It is not necessary to transfer the ONINSERT.DXC file.
  8. Refresh the FTP view to confirm that the files are present. Close the FTP client.
  9. In the DeTransfer send window, type !BOOTIT and press Enter. The upgrade will now start.
  10. Disconnect from the logger in DeTransfer, wait 5 minutes, then re-connect.
  11. Verify the new firmware version by sending TEST0.

Why does my logger report “DT80 not characterized” on the display after upgrading the firmware?
Some early version DT80s were produced with an invalid Ethernet MAC address. If the logger is not being used on an Ethernet network, you can ignore the error by pressing the OK button. Otherwise, you can fix the problem as per the information in the article “DT80 invalid MAC address” below. Version 6.16 of the firmware includes a bug that causes any logger with FF in the MAC address to return the same "DT80 not characterized" message on the display. This error can be safely ignored. Version 6.18 fixes this problem.

DT80 invalid MAC address

A batch of DT80 and DT81 data loggers have been produced with invalid Ethernet Addresses (MAC addresses). The affected units have an Ethernet address of 00-90-2D-FF-FF-FF. The invalid address will actually allow the logger to successfully communicate on an Ethernet network if it is the only logger on the network with such an address. Problems occur if two or more loggers with this invalid address are used on the same network, as the number should be unique. In this case, if two or more loggers are connected to the same network, then communications on the network will fail, possibly affecting all devices connected to the network.

The affected DT80 units were manufactured between April and September 2006. Most serial numbers between 82240 and 82758 are affected. Check the table at the end of this article for a complete listing of affected units. To check the current setting of the logger, issue the command EAA via a terminal interface such as DeLogger, Terminal Window or DeTransfer.

To work-around the problem do not connect more than one logger with an invalid address to the same local network. If the Ethernet port is not used, then the logger can be used as is. Although it would be prudent to correct the problem now in case the Ethernet port is used in the future. To fix the problem, use the serial number of the logger to identify the corresponding Ethernet address on the table below. Then send the following command to the logger to set the Ethernet address correctly. ^123CHARAC K W EAA EthernetAddress Where EthernetAddress is Ethernet address from the table below, do not include any space or '-' characters in the EthernetAddress field. After sending this command, reset DT80 using the SINGLEPUSH command for the new address to take effect.

Now clear the ARP cache on the computer if communicating with the DT80 on the old 00902DFFFFFF address, as the computer will currently be associating the loggers IP address with the invalid Ethernet address. On the Windows command line, enter the command "ARP –d ip_address" to clear the ARP cache of the invalid association. Alternatively, restart the computer this will also reset the ARP cache.

DT80 Serial #

DT80 Ethernet Address

81856

00902D0013B6

82017

00902D0013B7

82240

00902D0013B8

82241

00902D0013B9

82242

00902D0013BA

82243

00902D0013BB

82246

00902D0013BC

82247

00902D0013BD

82248

00902D0013BE

82249

00902D0013BF

82250

00902D0013C0

82251

00902D0013C1

82252

00902D0013C2

82253

00902D0013C3

82254

00902D0013C4

82255

00902D0013C5

82256

00902D0013C6

82257

00902D0013C7

82258

00902D0013C8

82259

00902D0013C9

82260

00902D0013CA

82261

00902D0013CB

82262

00902D0013CC

82263

00902D0013CD

82264

00902D0013CE

82265

00902D0013CF

82266

00902D0013D0

82267

00902D0013D1

82268

00902D0013D2

82269

00902D0013D3

82270

00902D0013D4

82271

00902D0013D5

82272

00902D0013D6

82273

00902D0013D7

82274

00902D0013D8

82275

00902D0013D9

82276

00902D0013DA

82277

00902D0013DB

82278

00902D0013DC

82279

00902D0013DD

82282

00902D0013DE

82283

00902D0013DF

82284

00902D0013E0

82285

00902D0013E1

82286

00902D0013E2

82287

00902D0013E3

82288

00902D0013E4

82289

00902D0013E5

82290

00902D0013E6

82291

00902D0013E7

82292

00902D0013E8

82293

00902D0013E9

82294

00902D0013EA

82295

00902D0013EB

82296

00902D0013EC

82297

00902D0013ED

82298

00902D0013EE

82299

00902D0013EF

82300

00902D0013F0

82301

00902D0013F1

82302

00902D0013F2

82303

00902D0013F3

82304

00902D0013F4

82305

00902D0013F5

82307

00902D0013F6

82350

00902D0013F7

82355

00902D0013F8

82356

00902D0013F9

82357

00902D0013FA

82358

00902D0013FB

82359

00902D0013FC

82360

00902D0013FD

82361

00902D0013FE

82362

00902D0013FF

82363

00902D001400

82364

00902D001401

82365

00902D001402

82366

00902D001403

82367

00902D001404

82368

00902D001405

82369

00902D001406

82370

00902D001407

82371

00902D001408

82372

00902D001409

82373

00902D00140A

82374

00902D00140B

82375

00902D00140C

82376

00902D00140D

82377

00902D00140E

82378

00902D00140F

82379

00902D001410

82380

00902D001411

82381

00902D001412

82382

00902D001413

82383

00902D001414

82384

00902D001415

82385

00902D001416

82386

00902D001417

82387

00902D001418

82388

00902D001419

82389

00902D00141A

82390

00902D00141B

82391

00902D00141C

82392

00902D00141D

82393

00902D00141E

82394

00902D00141F

82395

00902D001420

82396

00902D001421

82397

00902D001422

82398

00902D001423

82399

00902D001424

82400

00902D001425

82401

00902D001426

82403

00902D001427

82404

00902D001428

82405

00902D001429

82406

00902D00142A

82407

00902D00142B

82408

00902D00142C

82409

00902D00142D

82410

00902D00142E

82411

00902D00142F

82412

00902D001430

82413

00902D001431

82414

00902D001432

82415

00902D001433

82416

00902D001434

82417

00902D001435

82418

00902D001436

82419

00902D001437

82420

00902D001438

82421

00902D001439

82422

00902D00143A

82423

00902D00143B

82424

00902D00143C

82425

00902D00143D

82426

00902D00143E

82427

00902D00143F

82428

00902D001440

82429

00902D001441

82430

00902D001442

82431

00902D001443

82432

00902D001444

82433

00902D001445

82434

00902D001446

82435

00902D001447

82436

00902D001448

82437

00902D001449

82438

00902D00144A

82439

00902D00144B

82440

00902D00144C

82441

00902D00144D

82442

00902D00144E

82443

00902D00144F

82444

00902D001450

82445

00902D001451

82446

00902D001452

82447

00902D001453

82448

00902D001454

82449

00902D001455

82450

00902D001456

82451

00902D001457

82452

00902D001458

82453

00902D001459

82454

00902D00145A

82455

00902D00145B

82456

00902D00145C

82457

00902D00145D

82458

00902D00145E

82459

00902D00145F

82460

00902D001460

82461

00902D001461

82462

00902D001462

82463

00902D001463

82464

00902D001464

82465

00902D001465

82466

00902D001466

82467

00902D001467

82468

00902D001468

82469

00902D001469

82470

00902D00146A

82471

00902D00146B

82472

00902D00146C

82473

00902D00146D

82474

00902D00146E

82475

00902D00146F

82476

00902D001470

82477

00902D001471

82478

00902D001472

82479

00902D001473

82480

00902D001474

82481

00902D001475

82482

00902D001476

82483

00902D001477

82484

00902D001478

82485

00902D001479

82486

00902D00147A

82487

00902D00147B

82488

00902D00147C

82489

00902D00147D

82490

00902D00147E

82491

00902D00147F

82492

00902D001480

82493

00902D001481

82494

00902D001482

82495

00902D001483

82496

00902D001484

82497

00902D001485

82498

00902D001486

82499

00902D001487

82500

00902D001488

82501

00902D001489

82503

00902D00148A

82504

00902D00148B

82505

00902D00148C

82506

00902D00148D

82507

00902D00148E

82508

00902D00148F

82550

00902D001490

82551

00902D001491

82552

00902D001492

82553

00902D001493

82554

00902D001494

82555

00902D001495

82556

00902D001496

82557

00902D001497

82558

00902D001498

82559

00902D001499

82560

00902D00149A

82562

00902D00149B

82563

00902D00149C

82564

00902D00149D

82595

00902D00149E

82596

00902D00149F

82599

00902D0014A0

82600

00902D0014A1

82601

00902D0014A2

82602

00902D0014A3

82603

00902D0014A4

82604

00902D0014A5

82605

00902D0014A6

82606

00902D0014A7

82607

00902D0014A8

82608

00902D0014A9

82609

00902D0014AA

82610

00902D0014AB

82611

00902D0014AC

82612

00902D0014AD

82613

00902D0014AE

82614

00902D0014AF

82615

00902D0014B0

82616

00902D0014B1

82617

00902D0014B2

82618

00902D0014B3

82619

00902D0014B4

82620

00902D0014B5

82621

00902D0014B6

82622

00902D0014B7

82623

00902D0014B8

82624

00902D0014B9

82625

00902D0014BA

82626

00902D0014BB

82627

00902D0014BC

82628

00902D0014BD

82629

00902D0014BE

82630

00902D0014BF

82631

00902D0014C0

82632

00902D0014C1

82633

00902D0014C2

82634

00902D0014C3

82635

00902D0014C4

82636

00902D0014C5

82637

00902D0014C6

82638

00902D0014C7

82639

00902D0014C8

82640

00902D0014C9

82641

00902D0014CA

82642

00902D0014CB

82643

00902D0014CC

82644

00902D0014CD

82645

00902D0014CE

82646

00902D0014CF

82647

00902D0014D0

82648

00902D0014D1

82649

00902D0014D2

82650

00902D0014D3

82651

00902D0014D4

82652

00902D0014D5

82653

00902D0014D6

82654

00902D0014D7

82655

00902D0014D8

82656

00902D0014D9

82657

00902D0014DA

82658

00902D0014DB

82659

00902D0014DC

82660

00902D0014DD

82661

00902D0014DE

82662

00902D0014DF

82663

00902D0014E0

82664

00902D0014E1

82665

00902D0014E2

82666

00902D0014E3

82667

00902D0014E4

82668

00902D0014E5

82669

00902D0014E6

82670

00902D0014E7

82671

00902D0014E8

82672

00902D0014E9

82673

00902D0014EA

82674

00902D0014EB

82675

00902D0014EC

82676

00902D0014ED

82677

00902D0014EE

82678

00902D0014EF

82679

00902D0014F0

82680

00902D0014F1

82681

00902D0014F2

82682

00902D0014F3

82683

00902D0014F4

82684

00902D0014F5

82685

00902D0014F6

82687

00902D0014F7

82688

00902D0014F8

82689

00902D0014F9

82690

00902D0014FA

82691

00902D0014FB

82692

00902D0014FC

82693

00902D0014FD

82694

00902D0014FE

82695

00902D0014FF

82696

00902D001500

82697

00902D001501

82698

00902D001502

82699

00902D001503

82700

00902D001504

82701

00902D001505

82702

00902D001506

82703

00902D001507

82704

00902D001508

82705

00902D001509

82706

00902D00150A

82707

00902D00150B

82708

00902D00150C

82709

00902D00150D

82710

00902D00150E

82711

00902D00150F

82712

00902D001510

82713

00902D001511

82714

00902D001512

82715

00902D001513

82716

00902D001514

82717

00902D001515

82718

00902D001516

82719

00902D001517

82720

00902D001518

82721

00902D001519

82722

00902D00151A

82723

00902D00151B

82724

00902D00151C

82725

00902D00151D

82726

00902D00151E

82727

00902D00151F

82728

00902D001520

82729

00902D001521

82730

00902D001522

82731

00902D001523

82732

00902D001524

82733

00902D001525

82734

00902D001526

82735

00902D001527

82736

00902D001528

82737

00902D001529

82738

00902D00152A

82739

00902D00152B

82740

00902D00152C

82741

00902D00152D

82742

00902D00152E

82743

00902D00152F

82744

00902D001530

82745

00902D001531

82746

00902D001532

82747

00902D001533

82748

00902D001534

82749

00902D001535

82750

00902D001536

82751

00902D001537

82752

00902D001538

82753

00902D001539

82754

00902D00153A

82755

00902D00153B

82756

00902D00153C

82758

00902D00153D

Do I have to learn the programming text language?
No, most straightforward data logging tasks can be programmed using the dEX configuration builder functions.

Can I modify a program that is already in a DT80 range logger?
No, a new program must be loaded. The program can be read from the data logger in text form using the SHOWPROG command. You can send the SHOWPROG command in either DeTransfer or the enhanced web browsers command window. The program will be returned in text form. It can then be modified before being loaded back to the DT80 range logger. If the logger has been configured in dEX, the configuration can be recovered from the DT8x then modified and sent to the DT8x when finished. Program constants held in CVs (channel variables) can be modified at any time. Schedule rates can be changed at any time. Any channel can be read at any time without reprogramming by sending the appropriate text commands to the data logger.

I have lost my original data logger program. Can I recover it from the logger?
Yes, a number of functions can assist with reading the settings, configuration, and program (JOB). In most cases, the program can be read from the data logger in text form using the SHOWPROG command.

What debugging tools are available?
The DT80 range has debugging support and error reporting capability. This includes reporting the position of an error in a program as a returned text. In addition two log files are available:

  • UERRLOG returns errors (exceptions/assertions).
  • UEVTLOG returns contents of event log.

Example:
DataTaker 80 E3 - Channel option error at line 3 col 5 [1TK(THERMOCOUP ] marks position of error, in this case quotation marks are missing.

E3 – Channel option error:

  • Illegal channel option used
  • Incompatible options used
  • Option invalid for channel type
  • A new report was added in 7.02 firmware.
  • SERVICEDATA

This includes a number of diagnostic functions that will help us pinpoint problems with firmware and hardware. It also performs tests on the internal disk structure, TCP/IP, etc.

How do I comment my text program files?
Comments can be inserted by use of an apostrophe character ( ‘ ) followed by text comments, up to a carriage return.

Example:
‘ This line returns air temperature 1TK("Ambient")

Commenting by use of lower case characters only is no longer valid, as the DT80 range is not case sensitive for commands.

Are commands case sensitive?
No, commands are accepted in upper, lower, or mixed case. Note: Switch settings are case sensitive.

Are Alarms logged to memory?
Yes, if Alarms are numbered, they are logged to the data store file for the schedule they are tested in. The space allocated for Alarm storage and Overwrite mode are selected via Schedule options.

What can be tested in Alarms?
All input and internal channel types can be tested in Alarms including analog and digital inputs as well as time, channel, and system variables. Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on Alarms.

Can an Alarm be added to a channel being logged?
Yes. V8.00 firmware added the channel option LM (Log to Memory). This causes the measurement to be logged to data memory and any alarm messages to the alarm memory. In firmware prior to V8.00, if a channel needs to be logged as data and also be tested in an Alarm, two channels must be used.

Refer to the User’s Manual for detailed information on Alarms.

How do I display Alarms?
Only numbered Alarms are displayed, if numbered they are also logged to memory. For Alarms that must be logged but not displayed, use the ND (no display) channel option.

How many numbered alarms can I have?
The maximum allowed is 255 numbered alarms.

Can I email alarm messages?
Yes. V9.08 firmware added a new feature that allow the email of alarm messages to preset email addresses.

How should I read the data out of a logger from my custom application?

  1. Use fixed format (/H) mode when communicating with the logger. This mode was designed to make it easier to write program to interface to the logger. The logger will output historical (unload) data in either fixed or free formats depending on the state of the /H switch. In versions of the firmware prior to Version 6.10, the data format for unloaded data was always fixed format.
  2. Use the CopyD the unload command rather than the Usyntax. It is a fixed format and does not change dependent upon the P31 and P39 parameters.
  3. To get channel names and units etc., use STATUS14 rather than STATUS10. STATUS10 is provided for backwards compatibility. See DT800FormatedModeMessages.doc for more details on STATUS14.
  4. When reading data records, be sure to check what type of data record each one is before storing them in your data file.


There are five types of data records:

  1.  Real-time data records (type 0).
  2. Historical data records (type 1).
  3. Discontinutity records (type 4).
  4. End of schedule records (type 5).
  5. End of unload record (type 3).

Example historical data record. D,012345,"JOB1",2006/08/23,12:30:15,0.12345,1;A,0,35.454,24.4745;0068;3253

The digit immediately preceding the first semicolon indicates the type as described in "Part G — Logging and Retrieving Data - Format of Unloaded Data" in the DT8x user’s manual.

You will probably only want to record historical data records, so ensure that you discard the others. You may want to look for the end of unload record to determine when the data transfer has completed.

You should also check the character count and CRC fields to ensure that the record is not corrupted.

  • The character count is a count of all characters up to and including the semi-colon prior to the actual character count value.
  • The CRC is a standard 16-bit CRC16.

How do I get Microsoft Excel to display seconds and milliseconds in the date and time cells?
The default settings in Microsoft Excel will not display the seconds or milliseconds. The data is there but are not being displayed. To display the full time including seconds and milliseconds:

  • Highlight the column that holds the date and time.
  • Click on "Format" > "Cells".
  • Select "Custom" from Categories list.
  • For ISO time date format, click in the box under the heading "Type", and replace the text "General" with yyyy/mm/dd hh:mm:ss.000 then click OK.

The date and time will now be in the format 2006/10/10 09:36:05.123. You can change the ordering of the time and date to suit your purposes by re-arranging the order of the descriptors. For example to put the time first and use the American date description, you would enter hh:mm:ss.000 mm/dd/yyyy.

Tips for plotting data in Microsoft Excel
The following tips were tested with Microsoft Excel 2000 but should generally apply to other versions.

  • Excel can only resolve timestamps to 1 mS.
  • XY (scatter) plots work better when using a complete timestamp.
  • You will need to create a custom timestamp format such as "dd/mm/yy hh:mm:ss.000" to display full timestamps. When editing full timestamps, the milliseconds are not shown in the editing field.(See previous question).

To ensure that discontinuities in data are shown correctly, make sure that the Tools/Options Chart tab has the "Plot empty cells as " setting set to "Not plotted (leave gaps)".

Why do I only see the first 65,00 lines of data in Excel?
Older versions of Excel are limited to 65,535 lines of data. If you are logging data at a 1 second rate, then there will be 60 seconds x 60 minutes x 24 hours = 86,400 lines of data in one day so Excel can only display 3/4 of a day’s worth of data. Newer versions of Excel can have a maximum of 1,000,000 lines. At a 1 second rate, this is just over 11 days of data.

Do dataTaker loggers have CE and C Tick certification?
Yes, our loggers tested and certified for use against the relevant standards. These documents can be found on our Data Acquisition Resource Centre page.

Error and Fault information from the logger
To assist with troubleshooting your application, the DT80 range loggers include a number of error checking and event logging functions. It is useful to obtain the data from the logger to help identify the subtler problems that may occur. The two log files that are available;

  • UERRLOG returns errors (exceptions/assertions).
  • UEVTLOG returns contents of event log.
  • SERVICEDATA returns a full service data report with extended diagnostics

These are best unloaded using dEX. Select "Monitor the logger" from the opening screen. Select "Diagnostics" under the status bar, and click on Service report. Once the report has loaded right click the mouse, and copy to an email. DeTransfer text interface or via the File menu on the browser interface can also be used. With DeTransfer please make sure the "Keep receive buffer" is checked (under the File menu). To save the report, click on the receive window, then select File > Save as then send the file as an attachment. Please don't use the DeLogger text window as the returned report will be in fixed format mode and hard to read.

Create a Service data report on USB
You can create a Service data report on your USB memory. To do this, create an ONINSERT.DXC file on the root directory of the USB memory, with the following text.

SATTN; SERVICEDATA "A:\Service  Report\Servicedata.txt"; REMOVEMEDIA; CATTN

This will turn on the Attention LED, create a file called "Servicedata.txt" under a "Service Report" directory, remove the USB memory stick, then turn of the Attention LED.

CEM 20 channel expansion module FAQ

What is a CEM20?
The CEM20 is a purpose designed channel expansion module for increasing the channel capacity of the dataTaker DT80 range of data loggers (Series 2 only). Each CEM20 allows 20 universal analog channels to be connected to 1 universal analog channel of the data logger. This effectively expands the maximum analog input capacity of the DT80 to 100 universal analog channels and the DT85 to 300 universal analog channels. See the Product Details and Data Sheet for more details.

What are the input restrictions?
The CEM20 does not restrict the type of analog inputs that can be used. If the input type can be connected to the universal analog channel of the data logger, then it can also be connected via a CEM20.

Can the CEM20 be used with a DT80 range series 1 data logger?
No, the CEM20 only works with Series 2 and 3 models of the DT80 range of data loggers.

Can the CEM20 be used with a DT81/82?
No, the CEM20 does not work with the DT81/82 (Series 1, 2 or 3).

How is the CEM20 connected to the data logger?
The CEM20 uses 1 (4-wire shielded cable) connection for the analog connection to the data logger and 1 (4-wire shielded cable) connection for power and control.

How far away from the data logger can I mount the CEM20?
The CEM20 is connected to the logger in a "daisy chain" arrangement. The total chain length must not exceed 100 m. In other words, the combined distance between each CEM20 in a chain of CEM20s, plus the distance from the logger to the first CEM20, must be no more than 100 m. For example, you could have a logger with two CEM20s, the first one mounted 20 m from the logger and the other mounted up to a further 80 m away from the first CEM20.

The limiting factors for cable length are resistance and capacitance of the wires. The power wires of the cable must not exceed 12 ohms, and the Gnd to Data and Gnd to Clock capacitance must not exceed 20 nF. When measuring resistance, the resistance of all cables in the "daisy chain" are added together. In practice, the resistance of a typical 4 core signal cable will limit the total cable length to about 100 m.

Care should be taken when connecting cable shields. For the power/control cable, the shield should only be connected at the loggers DGND point. If connecting more than one CEM20 to logger, then tie the shields together at each CEM20, rather than connecting to the GND terminal at each CEM20. This will ensure a single ground connection for the shield covering all CEM20 power/control signals and thus avoid any potential ground loops. For the analog signal cable, the shield should only be connected to the DGND terminal or Earth point at the logger end.

IMPORTANT: Always minimise the distances between the logger and any CEM20s to the shortest practical distance to minimise noise and signal losses.

Note: the distance specification was formally 500 mm between each CEM20 and the logger. This specification has changed and is compatible with all existing CEM20 units.

Do I need a separate power supply for the CEM20?
No. The CEM20 is usually powered from the data logger 12 V output. The logger can provide enough power up to the maximum number of CEM20s that can be connected (15 for a DT85). You can use a separate supply if you wish as long as it meets the voltage and current requirements (12 Vdc+-5% 30 mA).

How much power does the CEM20 use?
The CEM20 will draw ~30 mA while sampling (60 mS per sample). It draws ~1 mA if powered but not sampling and zero if not powered. The default behavior of the logger is to turn off the 12 Vdc supply when not sampling, so any attached CEM20s are turned off when no measurements are occurring. The DT80 range user's manual includes examples on calculating power consumption for systems that include the CEM20.

How do I refer to channels located on the CEM20?
The channel number is used to indicate specific channels.

The CEM20 address is in two parts XXYY where XX is the CEM20 address as set on the DIP switches on the end of the CEM20. This address must match the DT80 range channel number the CEM20 is attached and the second part YY is the channel address on the CEM20.

For example: With the DIP switch set to 1 the CEM20 will attach to Channel 1 on the DataTaker and the first analog channel on the CEM20 will be 01.

Each CEM20 address has 99 channels reserved for its use, though only the first 20 are actually used. For example, channels 101–199 refer to channels on CEM20 address number 1. Channels 1201–1299 refer to channels on CEM20 address number 12.

dEX web-based interface FAQ

dEX web interface for the DataTaker DT80 range of data loggers.

What is dEX?
dEX is an enhanced web interface, which is only available on the DT80 range series 2+ models.
dEX allows you to:

  1. Write a configuration to the dataTaker.
  2. Change the default settings in the dataTaker.
  3. Unload data in either binary or CSV format.
  4. Display data mimic, charts, or tabular form.
  5. Check on the health of your dataTaker.
  6. Configure and customize the DT80 dEX web pages.

Refer to the user manual for detailed information about the capabilities of dEX.

What software do I need to install?
dEX itself requires no application for you to install other than a web browser with Adobe Flash 10 (or higher). If you wish to use a USB connection (DT80 & DT85), you will need to install the DtUSB driver supplied on the resource CD.

If you are using DtUSB with a Series 2 DT80 range logger which cannot be found by the DtUSB software, then you may need to follow the steps for upgrading your logger to be dEX compliant. For information on this, please see technical note TN-0040 in our Data Acquisition Resource Centre.

What web browser can I use?
dEX has been tested to run in the following web browsers:

Microsoft Windows

Linux (Ubuntu)

Mac OSX 10.6

  • Internet Explorer 7
  • Internet Explorer 8
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Fire Fox 3.6
  • Opera 10
  • Chrome (1)
  • Safari 5 (1)

(1) Requires version 8.04 firmware or above.

How do I make the dEX web interface work from behind a firewall?
The security model of the Flash player will block network traffic over ports used by the dEX web interface unless the logger’s web server informs the Flash player that it is okay to communicate over these ports. This security negotiation between the logger’s web server and the Flash player occurs over port 843. Once the security negotiation was successful and the Flash player knows to allow communications between itself and the logger’s web server, the other ports used by the Advanced web interface can be used. By default, the ports used are: 7700 for the Command window and 80 for the rest of the Advanced web interface (e.g. mimics, status, etc.). When connecting to the logger’s web server using port redirection (or NAT–Network address translation), often a firewall will be between the user and the logger. This firewall will probably, by default, block ports 843 and 7700. This will prevent communications between the logger and the Advanced web interface.

Any firewall between the logger and the user MUST have ports 80, 843, and 7700 open if the Advanced web interface is to be expected to work. Note: The command port on the logger can be changed, so the port on the firewall must also be changed to match.

Port forwarding map

Port forwarding map

Can I use the ‘configure my logger’ page and the ‘monitor my logger’ simultaneously?
Yes. The logger can easily handle multiple clients, simply open the second page in a new tab, and switch backwards and forwards between the two.

Can I configure my logger with dEX?
Yes. There is a configuration tool built into dEX. This interface provides a graphical environment from which to configure your logger. A terminal window with macro buttons is also provided in dEX to allow you to send commands and job text to the logger in a similar way to DeTransfer. This allows you to program the logger using the built in command language.

Series 1 models do not have any way of programming the logger via the web interface.

Can I open a program written in DeLogger or DeTransfer with dEX?
If a program has been written in DeLogger or DeTransfer, then you will be able to use the "Monitor the Logger" section in dEX, but you cannot modify the program.

How do I save my configuration as a RESET job?
Just by clicking on “Save to Logger”. All jobs are now saved as RESET jobs by default.

How do I save my configuration to my computer so I can use it again if I need it?
Click File > Save to Disc. To retrieve the file back, File > Open From Disc.

Can I view real-time data in dEX?
The data available is not real-time, but is the current or most recent data from all scanned channels. The data updates at the same rate as the schedule, and is only displayed at the rate specified when you set up your mimics screens. If you are using the traditional low-bandwidth interface, data updates at 30 second intervals. Custom web pages can update at a faster rate.

Why is the updated time shown on the channels page earlier than the channel timestamps?
The updated time is the time the page was updated according to the local PCs clock. The channel timestamps are the time of the sample according to the logger. Any significant difference in clocks between the logger and the PC may cause the user to be confused.

Can I view historical data in dEX?
Yes, using the chart or history-list mimics in dEX. There are limitations on how much data you can view at once using these mimics (1,000 data points per trace in the chart). Therefore, it is recommended that you download your data and view on a local PC for true analysis purposes.

dEX allows you to download data in ASCII CSV or our binary DBD format, which can easily be imported into DPlot and other common data analysis tools such as MS-Excel. For series 1, the data can be downloaded in DBD format which requires DPlot or Dump_DBD or to view and export data files to other formats.

Can I add more mimic pages?
Yes. From the opening screen, if you select "Customize" then select "Measurement menu", you will be able to add or remove mimic pages. Remember to save the settings when you exit. A maximum of 16 mimics can be assigned to a single page, and up to 5 pages are available.

How do I prevent tampering to my logger or mimics configuration?
First set up your mimics and charts, and save them. To remove access to the configuration section, rename the /www/needa/ folder. Once renamed, the “Logger home” menu will not find the tool in its default directory (because you renamed it) and therefore will not display it as a menu option. To rename the folder /www/needa/, open ‘Windows Explorer' and enter in the address bar ftp://x.x.x.x/b:/www/ where x.x.x.x is your logger’s IP address. Rename the file called ‘needa’ as you would rename any file (if you rename the folder /www/_needa/. You will be able to quickly reinstate the tool if you require it in the future by renaming it back to /www/needa/).

I am using DtUSB, and my browser reports that it cannot connect to dEX, or it says "under construction".
If this is the case, then it is likely that your computer is using a proxy server. To check this in Internet Explorer you need to do the following:

  • Click Tools > Internet Options.
  • Click the "connections" tab.
  • Click "LAN Settings".

If there is a tick in any of the "Automatic Configuration" boxes, then you have a proxy enabled via a script. To get the dEX interface working temporarily, you can uncheck the box, and click OK. The box will need to be re-checked after you have finished using dEX.

If there is a tick in the "Use a proxy server...." box, then you need to make an exception. To do this, click the "Advanced" button, then in the "Exceptions" box below you need to add the text ";127.*" (without the quotes). Click OK to return to the browser window, and then refresh your browser window.

I get Error #2176 when I use the retrieve data button.
With the introduction of Flash player 10, the retrieve data returns an error message. Please upgrade your logger to version 7.08 firmware or above.

Why do I still get Error 2048 when I have all the correct ports forwarded?
This error usually occurs because port 843 is blocked at the PC network end. As suggested by the above diagram, the ports do not only need to be forwarded but need to be opened up on the firewall where the PC is located (network/office).

Why do I get a blank screen when switching to full screen mode?
This is probably related to the flash player. You can try the following things:

  • Updating the flash player to the latest version.
  • Turning off hardware acceleration in the flash player settings.

Why can't I use the advanced web interface?
If you have a DT8x Series 1 logger you will not be able to use the advanced web interface. It must be a Series 2 logger. dEX is not compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 (IE6). Please update your web browser.

I've just upgraded the firmware in my DT80, and now dEX returns errors when I send the configuration to the dataTaker.
If you have been writing configurations for your logger then upgraded the new firmware, the previous version of dEX will be residing in the browsers cache. Clear your browsers cache then reload the dEX interface to update the dEX interface to the current version and remove the errors.

I get a "version info not loaded" error message.
Clear your browsers cache. then reload the dEX interface. This will update the dEX interface to the current version and remove the errors.

I've just upgraded the Flash player on my computer and now dEX doesn't work correctly?
Windows requires a reboot after loading a new flash player. The reboot ensures the new flash player is loaded correctly.

DeTransfer host software FAQ

Some menu commands are unavailable (grayed out).
Check that the various elements of DeTransfer are in an appropriate state for what you're trying to do.

For example: Connect is unavailable when DeTransfer is already connected to the dataTaker, Disconnect and Unload are unavailable when there is no Connection, Cut is unavailable when a receive window is active, send commands are only available when a send window is active and there is a Connection, and so on.

When I transfer configuration files to another computer, my Connections are lost.
Connection information is computer-specific (stored in the computer's System Registry, not in DeTransfer configuration files) because it is based on Windows installed components. It is therefore not available on another computer. You must re-create the Connections on the second computer.

My new Connections disappeared when my computer crashed. Why weren't they saved?
Connection information is saved only when you quit DeTransfer. Therefore, if your computer crashes after you create a new Connection and before you exit DeTransfer, the new Connection details will be lost.

I uninstalled a modem. What happened to the DeTransfer Connections that used it?
When you uninstall a modem, DeTransfer deletes any related Connections.

My new modem is not available in DeTransfer's Connection Configuration dialog box. I installed it when DeTransfer was running.
You must restart DeTransfer for it to recognize a newly-installed modem. Note that installing hardware and software while programs are running is NOT recommended.

I'm using a pair of radio modems between DeTransfer and the data site. How do I configure them?
Unlike wired modems, Windows sees radio modems as a simple direct link. Therefore, treat them as a direct Connection in DeTransfer. For many radio modems, in DeTransfer's Connection Configuration dialog box, click Properties, and select Xon/Xoff in the Flow Control field. Be sure to see your modems' instructions for specific details.

A modem I was using at a remote data site doesn't work when I try to use it at the local (computer) end of the link.
A modem configured to work with a dataTaker must be reconfigured in order to function successfully at the computer end of the link. Reset the modem to its factory defaults.

None of the DDE channels in my dataTaker program are available even though their names include.
The switches on the dataTaker have been set so that the channel name text is not returned with the data and the channels are not available through DDE.

How do I set the dataTaker up to use the DDE channels again?
The switches are in the correct state after a RESET command. If the dataTaker has a program or data which needs to be kept, then send /N and /U to the dataTaker. The DDE channels should now be available.

I'm trying to put a comment into the receive window but when I type no characters appear.
Edit Lock is ON for the receive window. Choose Edit Lock from the Receive menu to allow text entry.

The file to which I am capturing data through backslash commands is unavailable to me because it appears to be open. Why?
You probably haven't used the \f. command to close the capture the file.

How do I modify a configuration file with an autoexec macro that contains a \q command?
You can only do this by opening the configuration file in a text editor that does NOT add any text formatting information. MS Notepad is suitable; MS WordPad and MS Word are not.

In the configuration file, find the section starting with MACRO [autoexec] N {Somewhere in this block, terminated by} ENDMACRO, there will be a \q command. Remove or comment out this command, or rename the macro from autoexec to some other name.

DTWin, DeCipher, DeTerminal won't work on my new computer
These older software packages were written for DOS or very early versions of Windows (3.11, Win95 Win 98) and are not compatible with Windows 2000, XP etc.

DeTransfer replaces all of these older software packages. To make your old DataTaker program files compatible with DeTransfer simply change the file extension on you current program files from .CMD to .DXC

Why do I get an error message when I try to run the firmware upgrade function?

DeTransfer shares the firmware upgrade function with DeLogger. If you uninstall DeLogger it can remove the registration of the firmware upgrade function from the operating system. This results in an obscure error message such as "OLE ERROR 1 IDP_UNABLE_TO_CREATE" when you attempt to upgrade firmware using DeTransfer.

To fix the problem re-install DeTransfer.

DPlot charting software FAQ

Is DPlot a dataTaker product?
No. DPlot is a product created and owned by Hydesoft Computing but is distributed with dataTaker data loggers because of its ability to work with dataTaker DBD files.

How can I obtain a copy of DPlot?
DPlot is included with new dataTaker data loggers and can be purchased from Hydesoft Computing, but be sure to ask for the dataTaker plug in.

How do I get the latest version of DPlot?
DPlot has an update function built in, therefore the process is simple. Click Help > Check for updates, and DPlot will contact the server via the internet, download, and install the new version automatically.

How do I Open DBD files?
During installation, DPlot is associated with DBD files. Therefore, to open a DBD file, simply double-click it within Windows Explorer. Alternatively, a DBD file can be dropped onto a DPlot window, which will open the file in that window.

How do I display or hide a trace?
Traces can be displayed or hidden by clicking View > Hide Curves. This brings up a list from which traces can be selected to be hidden. Alternatively, a hide trace option is made available by right-clicking on the trace directly or by clicking the name of the trace in the legend.

Is there a zoom box?
Yes. Click the Zoom button from the toolbar and drag a box around the area of interest. It is also possible to make this the default behavior of the left mouse button if you click Options > General Options > General, then tick the box marked Click and drag to zoom.

Can I use multiple Y-Axes?
Yes. DPlot currently supports two y-axes. To add a second y-axis, right-click on the main Y-axis, and select Multiple Axes from the pop up menu. This will bring up the Multiple Axes window. To enable a second Y-axis, click Independent Y2.

Is it possible to view alarms using DPlot?
Yes. DPlot can be used to visualize when alarms had been triggered or reset during a recording. If a DBD file is opened, and it contains alarm data, the user will be prompted whether or not to display these alarms. The TRUE state corresponds to an alarm OFF-ON transition, and the FALSE state corresponds to an alarm ON-OFF transition. The alarms are displayed as a set of triangular markers underneath the data traces. These markers are colour-coded based on the alarm number. If the mouse pointer is hovered over an alarm marker then the corresponding alarm state, alarm text and the timestamp are displayed in a box.

NOTE: Alarms cannot be viewed if the data was exported from the logger in CSV format.

How do I view the max, min, and average for data sets?
To view statistics for a dataset, click the List Peaks button on the toolbar (or click Info > List Peak Values). A dialog box will appear, which lists minimum and maximum amplitudes and the point at which they occur, in addition to the mean, standard deviation and standard error for each trace. The same can be accomplished for a subset of the data by clicking the List Peaks in Range button on the toolbar (or clicking Info > List peaks within a range) and selecting a data range using the mouse cursor.

How do I view data from multiple schedules in one plot?
If you wish to plot data from multiple schedules, then open the first schedule and use file > append for the other schedules. If the data from multiple schedules is contained in a single DBD file, then each time the file is opened or appended, simply select a different schedule.

The DBD file contains more than one schedule of data which was not supported in early versions of DPlot. Upgrade to version 2.2.9.3 or later. This can be done online using the Check for updates option under the help menu. Once a later version of DPlot is installed, you will be able to select which schedule you wish to plot.

Can I view the raw data from within DPlot?
Yes. To do this, click the Edit Data button on the toolbar (or Edit > Edit data from the menu). A prompt will appear asking which trace to view the data from. Select the trace, and click OK. The edit data points window will now appear, displaying the raw data for the selected trace.

How do I export DBD data to a CSV file?
To export data (including alarms) to an Excel compatible format (CSV), click File > Save As. A dialog box will appear which allows the data to be saved in many different formats. Select ‘Comma-separated values’ from the dropdown list and type in a filename for the CSV file to save. This file can now be opened in Excel or other spreadsheet software.

Does DPlot support opening CSV files?
Yes. Simply open a CSV file using the open dialog (File > Open) or by dropping a CSV file onto the DPlot window. A dialog box will appear which allows you to select what traces to chart, then clock OK.

DPlot doesn't seem to open any DBD files.
This is because the dataTaker plugin is not selected within DPlot. To fix this, click File > Open, then select L from the file types, and check that dataTaker DBD files are selected as the current file plugin. If the dataTaker DBD plugin is not available, then please contact support so that we may send it to you.

If DPlot was installed from the original CD, then this problem should not occur as the dataTaker plugin is automatically installed and selected during installation.

My traces all have similar colors. How do I change them?
To change the trace colors, click the Colors button on the toolbar or select Options > Colors > Edit from the menu. This allows you to select the trace colors and save them as defaults.

My question is not answered here. What do I do?
Please contact Hydesoft Computing directly. Their current contact details can be found on their website DPLot. Alternatively, if your query is specific to a dataTaker DBD file, then please contact dataTaker support.

Why won't DPlot accept my registration key?
There are a small number of CDs sent out with incorrect user names printed on the label.

  • The user name should be dataTaker user nnnn where nnnn is your unique identification number.
  • If your unique identification number is less than 4 characters, then it must be padded with leading zeros (i.e. if your number is 12 then enter 0012)
  • Please make sure you enter the user name correctly. DataTaker is all one word with no space between data and Taker.

Why does DPlot report "?44544454 Unknown section tag" when opening some DBD files?
The DBD file contains more than one schedule of data which was not supported in early versions of DPlot. Upgrade to version 2.2.9.3 or later. This can be done online using the Check for updates option under the help menu. With the newer version of DPlot, you are able to select which schedule you wish to plot. If you wish to plot data from multiple schedules, then open the first schedule and use File > Append for the other schedules.

I can't upgrade to the full version after my trial version has expired?
If you have been running the trail version of DPlot and it has time expired, you will need to uninstall the trail version before installing the full version.

LabVIEW Driver FAQ

No, you must purchase this separately from National Instruments.

The dataTaker Instrument Driver for LabVIEW has been tested with all DT5/6xx and DT800 products.

The dataTaker DT8x Driver for LabVIEW has been tested with the DT80 range of products.

The Driver has a compiled help file which is installed with the driver. Right click on any of the VIs and select 'help'. The help file is a chm file in the user.lib directory under the documentation directory. Online help is being developed.

The dataTaker instrument driver for LabVIEW was written for LabVIEW 6.0.2 for backwards compatibility. Currently the installer is an executable, which installs the relevant files under the user.lib directory for LabVIEW 6.0.2, 6.1, 7.0, or 7.1 If you have LabVIEW 8.0 or later, you will need to do a custom installation as follows:

  1. Download the DTDRIVER.ZIP file.
  2. Extract this ZIP file to the user.lib directory of your LabVIEW installation.

Yes, it is referred to as the dataTaker DT8x Driver for LabVIEW.  You will need to have LabVIEW 8.2.1 or later and be running firmware 8.02 or later on your DT80 range data logger.

To install it, download the DT8xDRIVER.zip and extract to the relevant user.lib subdirectory of your LabVIEW folder.

Yes, however you may need to modify the VIs. Remove the VIs, DT8x SetCurrentJob.vi, DT8x StartAcquisitionUsingCurrentJob.vi, and DT8x SetStorageMode.vi. These VIs create a text program and send it to the DT8x. As you are using a previously created configuration from the dEX environment, these are not required.

The LabVIEW library demonstrates this.

Yes, however we have not tested this.

For the DT500 range and DT800

You will need to extract the DTDRIVER.ZIP file.

For the DT80 range

You will need to extract the DT8xDRIVER.zip file.

Extract the folder to your "user.lib" directory under the LabVIEW folder. You should be able to see the VIs under your User Libraries sub-palette in your block diagram.

You will need to install NI-VISA for Linux in order to talk to the dataTaker logger over serial. If you are using the dataTaker logger over Ethernet, you will be able to modify the VIs so they are not using the NI-VISA VIs in the lower level Vis.

The documentation for the driver is a compiled HTML file, linked into the dataTaker Vis. It is not certain whether this will work under Linux. However, all the HTML files have been placed on the website. See the above link under the question "Where is the documentation?".

What third party products can I use with a dataTaker data logger?

This page describes a wide variety of third party products that can be used with dataTaker data loggers in a wide range of applications. Where possible, information on using third party products with dataTaker data loggers or links to such information will be provided here.

Disclaimers:

  • Note that we do not sell or directly support these products. However, we may be able to offer limited assistance with aspects related to their use with dataTaker data loggers.
  • Any information supplied here is supplied AS IS with no guarantees. We do not guarantee that the third party products mentioned here will fully integrate with dataTaker products. Any products known not to work with dataTaker products will be removed if we become aware of related problems.
  • Not all of these products have been tested by dataTaker.

Displays can be interfaces to the DT80 range in three main ways:

  1. Via Modbus interface. Many operator panels support a Modbus interface to support PLCs. The DT80 series has a Modbus slave cabability which can be used by the display to poll for values to display.
  2. Via web interface. Panel PC's can support a browser interface. You can use either the built-in web pages or write custom pages to be displayed on a panel PC or similar.
  3. Via serial data. Some simple displays provide a serial interface. The DT80 range and DT800 loggers can output serial data from either the serial sensor port or the serial host port to these types of displays.

Here are some links to suppliers of these types of displays.

  • Maple Systems–Touch screens, Modbus interface
    • Blue series is small, inexpensive, and able to interface to DT80 range via Modbus interface, as tested by DataTaker. The BLU300 is a low cost unit that has been tested using Modbus connected to a DT80 Host RS232 port. It works reasonably well for input using arrow keys. The display is limited in size and best suited to simple tasks with perhaps 4 variables.
    • MAP450B Mini-Terminal has also been successfully interfaced using serial data to DT80 range and DT800 serial channel.
  • Advantech–Touch Panel PC: The browser interface is used to create the required interface on this panel.
  • Weintek–Touch screens (5.7" mono, 5.7" color, 9.4" mono, 10.4" color) with Modbus interface. The MT506TV model has been tested by DataTaker as a Keyboard interface and data/mimic display. The Modbus RS232 port was connected to DT80 HOST port which the latter was configured as a MODBUS slave. The touch screen works well, and it is generally a crisp and bright display at 24 V but the backlighting is dull at 12 V.
  • Vartech Systems–Industrial LCD monitors and panel PCs.
  • Garmin
    • GPS18x 5Hz, samples at 5 Hz for greater location precision
    • GPS18x, samples at 1 Hz for general purpose use
  • Tallysman–TW5210, samples at 1 Hz

Check DT80 and DT800 GPS programming examples.

GPS to CANGate Wiring Information:

CANGate Pin       GPS          Color

-------------------------------------

    1             Vin          Red

    2             Gnd          Black

    4             Tx           White

    8             Rx           Green

    -             Pulse        Yellow

Converters

  • LantronixUDS1100: Ethernet to 1xRS232, use this instead of obsolete dataTaker Ethernet to serial converter for the DT5xx/DT6xx range. A 25 to 9 pin adapter is required.

DT5xx/DT6xx to UDS 1100 Wiring Information:

DT5xx/DT6xx                       UDS 1100

--------------------------------------------

  4 (Rx)                          3 (Tx)

  3 (Tx)                          2 (Rx)

  1 (Sig Gnd)                   7 Sig Gnd

 

1 to 2 link (might be required)

7 to 5 link (might be required)

  • Moxa
  • FTDI–USB to 1xRS232, use this with dataTaker DT500, DT800, and DT80 products when your PC does not have a RS232 serial port available.

Not all USB converters have been found to work reliably, but this unit has been tested by dataTaker.

PSTN Modems

  • Netcomm Wireless
    • IG6000

3G Modems

Radio Modems

  • AvaLAN provides a number of Ethernet radio bridge products that allow you to connect dataTaker data loggers via Ethernet radio links (900 Mhz/2.4 Ghz/4.9 GHz/5.8 Ghz). They also have some nice, reasonably priced, spectrum analyser products that allow you to easily survey the available radio spectrum for radio site surveys and diagnostics.
  • Microhard Spread Spectrum offers SERIAL or Ethernet connection at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz
  • FreeWave offers SERIAL or Ethernet connection at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz

Satellite Modems

  • Wideye
    • Sabre I Remote, a light weight BGAN terminal with easy configuration interface for satellite pointing and dataTaker connection.
  • Hughes
    • 9211, a rugged and durable BGAN terminal
    • 9502, a BGAN terminal with low power consumption.

WiFi (IEEE 802.11b/g) Adaptors

  • DLink
    • AirPlus G DWL-G730AP  Compact unit, allows logger with Ethernet port to have WiFi added
  • Eaton

If you want to simply be able to walk up to the logger with a PC and connect to it without any configuration on the PCs part with the DT80 NOT permanently connected to any WiFi Access Point.

  1. Set the Unit to AP mode, and connect the ethernet cable supplied with the unit to the logger.
  2. Connect to the logger using the USB cable and DeTransfer.
  3. Type: PROFILE"ETHERNET","IP_ADDRESS"="169.254.xxx.yyy" 'where xxx and yyy are two numbers you have chosen.
  4. Type: PROFILE"ETHERNET",""SUBNET_MASK"="255.255.0.0".
  5. Type SINGLEPUSH.
  6. Type IP to check if you have completed the proceedure correctly.
  7. Right click on the wireless ICON in the system tray and select 'View available wireless networks'.
  8. Select the 'Default' network.
  9. It will ask for a Network Key. Enter 0000000000 twice.
  10. The PC will then connect to the WiFi unit. It will look for a DHCP server and will not find one. This process takes around 1 min. There are indications of this process in the system tray. A message will be shown 'Limited or No Connectivity', which means the PC cannot find a DHCP server and has allocated a random IP address in the 169.254.aaa.bbb range to its WiFi interface.
  11. You can now contact the logger using the IP address set in Step 2. The simplest way to test this is to bring up Internet Explorer and enter the IP address in the address line. The DT80 web browser should pop up. The next time your PC locates that network, it will not ask for the network address but it will spend around a minute looking for a DHCP server.

There are many possibilities in connecting this unit to a logger. However, if you do not want to reconfigure your PC each time you connect to the logger, the above is pretty simple. Other modes such as 'AdHoc' have not been tested. If you are going to use the unit to connect to WiFi access point, follow the instructions in the supplied manual and use 'Client mode'.

Zigbee Modems

Digi International XBee-PRO™ Zigbee/802.15.4 RS-232 RF Modem Zigbee RS232 modem

Underwater Acoustic Modem

This has not been tested.

Sensors based on vibrating wire technology are used to measure a variety of parameters such as strain, load, force, pressure, temperature, and tilt. The sensor output is a frequency that is proportional to the strain or tension of a tensioned steel wire within the sensor. Vibrating wire sensors are renowned for their long term stability and ability to transmit a signal over long distances (up to several kilometers). This makes them ideal for use in situations which require measurements over a long period in adverse environments.

Vibrating Wire Interfaces for use with DT80 range

Not all of the DT80 range of data loggers directly support vibrating wire sensors, only the GeoLogger models. To use these types of sensors with non GeoLogger models a third party vibrating wire interface is required. The following vibrating wire interfaces can be used with the dataTaker DT80 range of data loggers.

Canary Systems–VW DSP interface

Features

  • 2 channels of vibrating wire + thermistor inputs.
  • RS232 connection to the logger.
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Expandable using analog multiplexer from same manufacturer. Up to 8 multiplexers with 16/32 channels on each multiplexer.
  • DSP processing of signal gives better readings in noisy environments.

VW DSP Interface

Connection to logger

Power connection: The VW DSP requires nominal 12 VDC, 40 mA. The supply can be from 6 VDC to 16 VDC. This can be supplied directly from the 12 V output of the DT85 or by using a separate power supply. For the DT80/81, you can use the external supply to the logger as long as it in the range 10–16 VDC. Note that the enable terminal on the VW DSP (EN) should be connected to the supply as well to enable normal operation of the unit.

Communications: The VW DSP can be connected to either the serial sensor input (1SERIAL) or the HOST RS232 port (2SERIAL) if it is configured as a second serial sensor port.

To connect the VW DSP to the serial sensor port of a DT85 use the following connections:

DT85       VW DSP

-----------------

12V<------->12V

         |->EN (Loop to 12V)

 

DGND<------>GND

SS Tx<----->RD

SS Rx<----->TD

Keynes Control–VW-108 interface

Features

  • 8 channels of vibrating wire and thermistor inputs.
  • SDI-12 connection to the logger
  • Built in speaker and display for local diagnostics.

For information on the connection to the logger and code example look here.

VW 108 Interface

Sensor output

The VW-108 returns frequency for vibrating wire inputs and raw voltage for the thermistor inputs. To convert the raw voltage to temperature, it must first be converted to resistance. The thermistor conversion from mV(Vout) to Ohms(Rsense) is

SysCurrent (Amps) = (2.5V - Vout) / 3300Ohms

Rsense (Ohms) = Vout /SysCurrent

This assumes that the Input impedance when measuring Vout is relatively high (Meg Ohms). The accuracy of this system also assumes that any cable resistance is negligible compared to the sensor resistance. Once the temperature input is converted to resistance then it can be converted to temperature units by following the thermistor manufactures recommendations.

Logger programming

The following table shows the required channel and options to use to access the relevant channels on the vibrating wire 108 interface.

VibWire 108 Input

DT80/81/85 SDI-12
Channel and Options

0VW

nSDI12(ADa,R001)

1VW

nSDI12(ADa,R002)

2VW

nSDI12(ADa,R003)

3VW

nSDI12(ADa,R004)

4VW

nSDI12(ADa,R005)

5VW

nSDI12(ADa,R006)

6VW

nSDI12(ADa,R007)

7VW

nSDI12(ADa,R008)

0Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R009)

1Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R010)

2Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R011)

3Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R012)

4Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R013)

5Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R014)

6Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R015)

7Therm/Analog

nSDI12(ADa,R016)

 

where:

  • n is the digital I/O channel being used to communicate via SDI-12 to to the VW-108 interface. This would be 5 if using Digital I/O 5 on the DataTaker to communicate to the VW-108 interface.
  • a is the SDI-12 address of the particular VW-108 to communicate with on the SDI-12 bus. This would normally be 0 if only one VW-108 interface is being used.

Code example

begin"VW-108 example"

 

' Set measurement rate to 10 seconds.

RA10S

 

' Read the first two vibrating wire sensors and return the frequency

5SDI12("Gauge0 Freq",AD0,R001)

5SDI12("Gauge1 Freq",AD0,R002)

 

' Read the first two thermistor inputs and convert to Ohms

5SDI12(AD0,R009,=1CV,W) 2CV"Gauge0 Temp",=(1CV/((2500-1CV)/3300))/1000

5SDI12(AD0,R010,=1CV,W) 2CV"Gauge1 Temp",=(1CV/((2500-1CV)/3300))/1000

 

' enable logging of readings

logon

 

end

The following companies offer lightning protection products that can be used with the dataTaker range of data loggers.

  • Transtech provides a range of low voltage lightning protectors.
  • Citel provides a range of lightning protection products.

Connector~Tech provides a range of harsh environment connectors to the Australian market.

These tools may be useful for developing applications requiring custom presentation of data.

Gnuplot is a command-line plotting utility software.

Ploticus is a free, GPL, non-interactive software package for producing plots, charts, and graphics from data.

GPS Visualizer is a free online utility that creates maps and profiles from GPS data. This outputs in various formats including Google Earth but requires some manipulation of logged data in CSV or TXT file.