powec as - Armspower.com

powec as 

Product description communication 

Dok.nr.:UK\PD\ZU\PowCom 

Rev.: F 

program - PowCom Page 1 of 27 

Prepared: Arild Sagebø Date: 08.03.2000 

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 

COMMUNICATION PROGRAM - 

POWCOM 

CONTENT: 

Page: 

1. Introduction......................................................................................................... 3 

2. Hardware requirements........................................................................................ 3 

3. Installation........................................................................................................... 3 

4. Installation of modem in PPS 15.00/PPS 30.00 system ........................................ 4 

5. Installation of modem in PPS 6.00 system ........................................................... 4 

6. Installation of modem in PPS 3.00/5.00/10.00/PCS system.................................. 4 

7. Null-modem cable ............................................................................................... 5 

8. Main window....................................................................................................... 6 

9. Telephone list ...................................................................................................... 8 

9.1. Calling......................................................................................................... 8 

9.2. Password...................................................................................................... 8 

9.3. Edit telephone list ........................................................................................ 8 

10. Telnet communication ......................................................................................... 9 

10.1. Telnet....................................................................................................... 9 

10.2. Password Protection................................................................................. 9 

10.3. Edit the Telnet List................................................................................. 10 

10.4. Telnet Init String.................................................................................... 10 

10.5. Init String Example ................................................................................ 10 

11. Direct communication ....................................................................................... 11 

12. Network connection........................................................................................... 11 

12.1. Server: Port............................................................................................ 11 

12.2. Get list ................................................................................................... 11 

12.3. Connect.................................................................................................. 12 

12.4. Cancel.................................................................................................... 12 

13. Com.port set-up................................................................................................. 12 

14. Properties .......................................................................................................... 13 

15. Set parameters ................................................................................................... 14 

16. Set date and time ............................................................................................... 17 

16.1. System time ........................................................................................... 17 

16.2. Set installation data ................................................................................ 17 

17. Set system status (only PCU 30.00) ................................................................... 18 

Approved: Knut R. Date: 13.03.2000 

C:\_ARMS\_ARMSPOWER\Products\Power-One\Telecom Rectifier Systems\Z_Powcom Software\POWCOM\PowCom.doc




Rev.: F 



18. Transfer test data ............................................................................................... 19 

19. Get all tests........................................................................................................ 19 

20. Get battery log (PCS only)................................................................................. 19 

21. Change password............................................................................................... 20 

22. Alarm history..................................................................................................... 20 

23. Alarms/information ........................................................................................... 20 

24. Module data...................................................................................................... 21 

25. Alarm dial back ................................................................................................. 21 

26. Set network address........................................................................................... 22 

27. Inventory (PCS only)......................................................................................... 22 

28. Log data ............................................................................................................ 23 

29. View parameter file ........................................................................................... 23 

30. View test data.................................................................................................... 24 

31. PCS configuration updater (PCS only)............................................................... 26 

32. Button bar.......................................................................................................... 26 

33. Glossary ............................................................................................................ 27 

Approved: Knut R. Date: 13.03.2000 

C:\_ARMS\_ARMSPOWER\Products\Power-One\Telecom Rectifier Systems\Z_Powcom Software\POWCOM\PowCom.doc




Rev.: F 



1. Introduction 

1.1. PowCom for Windows is a program for communication and control of Powec 

power supply and supervision systems. A function for viewing the battery test 

data is available in the program. Discharge curves can be displayed and the 

program even contains a database function for saving the battery tests. 

PowCom can communicate with a large number of rectifier systems. The 

amount of functions available may vary. This means that some of the functions 

described may not be available on a particular system 

Context sensitive help is available at any time. By pressing F1 the help system 

will open the help page for the active window or menu item. 

2. Hardware requirements 

2.1. The program require a PC with Microsoft Windows v3.1 or higher. One serial 

port has to be available. Modem/null-modem cable must be connected to a 

serial port. 

2.2. The modem must be Hayes compatible and communicate on one of the 

following baud rates: 2400, 4800 or 9600. The baud rate must be at least as 

high as the one in the PPS system. 

2.3. PowCom will automatically adjust itself to the baud rate in the PPS system if it 

is lower than the one in PowCom. Therefore, it is possible to call a system 

which has a modem with the baud rate of 2400, with a 9600 baud modem. 

However, the PPS system cannot be adjusted to a lower baud rate. Therefore, it 

is impossible to call a system which has a modem with a baud rate of 9600 and 

which is adjusted to 9600 baud, with a 2400 baud modem. 

3. Installation 

1. Make sure no other programs are running. 

In particular do not run the Microsoft Office Icon bar while installing. 

2. From Windows run Setup.exe from Disk 1 

3. If you get any warnings click the Ignore button 

In most cases warnings are caused by DLL’s in the WINDOWS/SYSTEM 

directory being newer than the version on the install disk. This is normally 

not a problem.




Rev.: F 



4. Installation of modem in PPS 15.00/PPS 30.00 system 

4.1. Connect the modem to 9-pins serial port on PCU 30.00, (PL2). A cable for PC 

with 9-pins serial port can be used. 

4.2. Enter the PCU 30.00 menu system; MENU-CONFIG-LIMITS-TEST DATA- 

OTHER-MODEM. Select baud rate 2400, 4800 or 9600 depending on the 

modem. 

4.3. Connect modem and turn it on. Press MODEM INI. (NOTE! Never press 

MODEM INI while modem is on line and communication is ongoing.) The 

modem switches to "Auto-answer modem" and is ready for receiving data. 

4.4. Call up the system. If the operation fails, repeat the installation. 

5. Installation of modem in PPS 6.00 system 

5.1. Connect modem to 9-pins serial-port on PPR 6.C00D/E, (PL232). A cable for 

PC with 9-pins serial-port can be used. 

5.2. PCU 6.00D/E always communicate with 2400 baud rate. 

5.3. When PCU 6.00D/E is activated, a communication line is transmitted to the 

modem. Pull out and in the PCU 6.00D/E (to initiate the modem). The modem 

switches to "Auto-answer modem" and is ready for receiving data. 

5.4. If the operation fails, repeat the procedure. 

5.5. Parameters is stored in the modem, but may be changed if the modem is 

connected to other equipment. 

5.6. Initiation is not necessary if the modem is shortly disconnected, or power 

supply disappears. 

6. Installation of modem in PPS 3.00/5.00/10.00/PCS system 

6.1. Connect modem to 9-pins serial-port on the front of the control module. A 

cable for PC with 9-pins serial-port can be used. The control module always 

communicate with 2400 baud rate. 

6.2. Connect modem and turn it on. Enter the menu ‘MISCELLANEOUS’ and press 

‘INITMODEM’.




Rev.: F 



6.3. The modem switches to ‘Auto-answer modem’ and is ready for receiving data. 

6.4. If the operate fails, repeat the procedure. 

6.5. Parameters are stored in the modem, but may be changed if the modem is 

connected to other equipment. 

6.6. Initiation is not necessary if the modem is shortly disconnected, or power 

supply disappears. 

7. Null-modem cable 

7.1. If a null-modem cable is used to communicate directly to a control unit without 

using modem, select Communication/ Direct communication. The baud rate 

for both PowCom and the control unit should be the same. If the baud rate for 

PowCom and the control unit is different, it is impossible to get contact. 

7.2. The cable shall be connected to 9-pins plugs as following: 

2 

3 

5 

2 

3 

5




Rev.: F 



8. Main window 

Example. Main window for PCU 30.00. 

When PowCom is connected to a system the main window will display various 

information about the system, like voltage, current, etc. The information may 

vary depending on the particular system, so not all the information listed here 

will be available on all systems. 

8.1. System voltage 

Displays the voltage of the system. 

8.2. System voltage 2 

Is usually the same as system voltage. However, if the system contains a DC- 

DC converter, two different voltages can be measured. 

8.3. Load current 

Displays the current to the load. 

8.4. Battery current 

Displays the current to the battery (if the current is negative the battery is 

discharged). 

8.5. Rectifier current 

Displays the current to the rectifier.




Rev.: F 



8.6. Distribution current 

Displays the current in the different distribution modules 

8.7. Fuse alarm 

Indicated with green if everything is OK. Alarms will be indicated with red. 

8.8. Modules 

Grey square indicate module not installed. Green square indicate module OK. 

Red square indicate module alarm. 

8.9. Alarm relay 

Displays the alarm condition. The indication squares are red in case of alarm, 

otherwise green. By clicking with the mouse on one of the indication squares, a 

window with the alarm texts will be displayed. On some systems a yellow 

square will be displayed, if there are any messages on the systems that do not 

lead to alarms. The information texts will be displayed in the alarm text 

window together with the alarms. 

8.10. Temperature 

Displays the temperature if temperature measurement is installed in the system. 

Otherwise it will print: No measurement. 

8.11. Show symmetry voltage 

A window with measurement of symmetry voltages will be toggled by this 

button. 

8.12. Symmetry voltage 

Displays a list of measurements of symmetry voltages. If the battery/batteries 

contain 18 cells, one of the measurements for each battery will be 0.00V. 

8.13. Status indication 

A text field indicating the charging status of the system. (NORMAL, BOOST, 

TEST, SPARE, etc.




Rev.: F 



9. Telephone list 

In the telephone list name, telephone number and baud rate may be entered 

(without limitation of length on name and telephone number). Several 

telephone lists can be used, and these lists may be protected with a password. It 

is also possible to use call-back. 

If no baud rate is entered, 9600 will be used. If the modem you want to 

communicate with, is adjusted to a lower speed, the program will automatically 

adjust the speed when contact is achieved. 

To call a number, select the actual line in the list and press CALL. If the list 

does not contain the number you want to call, press OTHER NUMBER and 

enter the telephone number, baud rate and call-back if wanted, and press OK. 

9.1. Calling 

This window is displayed when the modem is used. Messages from the modem 

will be shown in the text area 

If the modem does not get in contact with the system and gives messages like 

NO CARRIER, BUSY or NO DIAL TONE PowCom will not hang up. The 

user will have to press CANCEL CALL to hang up. 

When connection is made the stored installation information on the system is 

shown and the system password have to be entered. 

9.2. Password 

When connecting to a system you will have to enter the password for the 

system. The password is 1234.Some systems will also require password to 

accept parameter updates. 

9.3. Edit telephone list 

To edit the telephone list, select a line and press CHANGE. There will always 

be one free line at the bottom of the list, enabling the user to add new numbers 

by using this line. 

To delete a line in the telephone list, select a line and press DELETE. 

To change telephone list, press NEW PHONE LIST and select a file. If a file 

name which does not exist is entered, a new list will be created. 

To change the password for the active telephone list, press NEW PASSWORD. 

Enter your old password. Then, enter the new password twice to ensure correct 

spelling. The password can contain all kinds of letters and numbers, and the 

system will distinguish between small and capital letters.




Rev.: F 



9.3.1. Modem initialisation 

To change the init. string for the modem, press MODEM SET-UP and enter the 

string. 

Some hints: Switch data compression off, select direct asynchronous 

communication, set the terminal speed to follow the line speed, select no hand 

shake. For some modems this is adjusted from the factory. However, for high 

speed modems the user usually has to switch data compression off (v42/MNP) 

Examples of suitable init. strings for some modems: 

US Robotics Sportster 14400 

Lasat Unique 14400 

UCOM Fastlink 14400 

HIDEM 14400 fax 

HANDY 144 CC 

XLINK 28800 

AT&K0 

AT&Q0&K0 

AT&Q0 

AT%C0\N1 

AT&F&C1&Q0&K0 

AT%C0\N1 (Rockwell chip set) 

10. Telnet communication 

The Telnet option will enable PowCom to communicate through a Telnet 

session over a TCP/IP network. PowCom needs an IP address and a port 

number to a Telnet device that can direct raw data to a serial RS232 port. 

Note: 

The telnet device has to support a raw 8-bit data through port without telnet 

character processing. Often a special TCP/IP port number is used for this type 

of connection. 

The Omnitronix SNMP Link SL60 is an example of such a device that supports 

raw data through a serial port when using TCP/IP port number 2000. 

The serial cable between the control module and the telnet device should be a 

null-modem cable. 

10.1. Telnet 

The address list for system names, IP addresses, Port numbers and initialisation 

strings will appear when Telnet communication from the pull down menu is 

chosen. 

10.2. Password Protection 

To change the password for the active telnet list, press NEW PASSWORD. 

Enter your old password. Then, enter the new password twice to ensure correct




Rev.: F 



spelling. The password can contain all kind of letters and numbers, and the 

system will distinguish between small and capital letters. 

10.3. Edit the Telnet List 

To edit the telnet list, select a line and press CHANGE. There will always be 

one free line at the bottom of the list, enabling the user to add new numbers by 

using this line. 

To delete a line in the telnet list, select a line and press DELETE. 

To change telnet list, press NEW TELNET LIST and select a file. If a file name 

which does not exist is entered, a new list will be created. 

10.4. Telnet Init String 

The telnet init string is a string that is sent to the telnet device when the 

connection is made. This string has to contain the correct commands to set the 

telnet device up to port all data to an RS232 serial port. The commands 

available are: 

 

 

{text} Makes the init sequence wait until "text" is received from the telnet 

device 

\e Inserts an escape character (Chr(27)) 

\r Inserts a carriage return character (Chr(13)) 

\l Inserts a line feed character (Chr(10)) 

, Sends the string preceding the comma 

 

\f Turns off doubling of Char(255) 

10.5. Init String Example 

The init string for SNMP Link SL60 should look something like this: 

\e\e\e{Exit}1{password}ACCESS1\r\l




Rev.: F 



This string will initialise communication with the SNMP Link I/O port 1. The 

Baud rate of both the PCU/PCS and the SNMP Link box has to be identical, i.e. 

9600 baud (8,N,1). 

11. Direct communication 

Is used when the system is connected directly to the PC through a null-modem 

cable. It is very important that comport and baud-rate is correctly set before 

selecting "Direct communication". 



12. Network connection 

The purpose of this window is to establish a connection to a TCP/IP server that 

act as a link to a network of rectifier systems connected to that server. To be 

able to use this a server program must be running on this computer or on 

another computer reachable in the TCP/IP network. TCP/IP must be installed 

on the computer. 

12.1. Server: Port 

Enter the address and port number of the PowCom server here on the format 

address:port. If a name-server is available symbolic names can be used for the 

address, otherwise the standard TCP/IP notation is used. 

Example: 199.200.110.101:4999 

4999 in the example is the port number. PowCom only accept a port number 

higher than 1000 to avoid conflict with standards used in TCP/IP. The port 

number must be the same as the one the server use. 

12.2. Get list 

When an address and port number has been entered, pressing this button will 

bring up a list of systems connected to the server.




Rev.: F 



12.3. Connect 

When one of the systems in the list has been selected pressing connect will set 

up the connection to that system. 



12.4. Cancel 

Press cancel to leave this window without making a connection to 

end communication. 

13. Com.port set-up 

Select which comport should be used and the communication baud-rate. If an 

incorrect baud-rate is selected, direct communication will not work, while 

communication through modem may work. The baud-rate should always be set 

to the baud-rate the PCU uses. 

PCU 30.00 9600/4800/2400 baud (Default 9600) 

PCU 6.00 

2400 baud 

PBSU 

2400 baud 

PCU 3.00 2400/9600 baud (Default 2400) 

PCU 10.00 2400/9600 baud (Default 2400) 

PCS 2400/9600 baud (Default 9600)




Rev.: F 



14. Properties 

Message timeout 

Message timeout is the time PowCom will wait for a reply before sending a 

new request. The default value is 1.0. In most cases this is ok, but when 

communicating via mobile phones, or over very long distances, or via radio 

modems or other equipment that cause a delay in the data flow it may be 

necessary to increase this time. In most cases 2.0 will be enough. 

If this timeout is increased it will take longer for PowCom to discover a broken 

connection. Values under 1.0 is not legal. 

Dial up timeout 

This is the time PowCom will wait for a modem to set up connection with 

another modem. The default is 60 seconds. In most cases this is enough, but it 

may need to be increased if the remote modem has been set up to wait for many 

rings before answering.




Rev.: F 



15. Set parameters 

Example for PCU 30.00 

The number of functions available will vary depending on the particular system 

connected. Not all of the functions listed below will be available on all systems. 

Some systems have more than one output voltage. In this case the select 

rectifier window will appear prompting for a module or module group to set 

limits for. 

Select rectifier 

Some systems have several galvanic isolated output voltages and the possibility 

for individual alarm threshold adjustment. Because of this feature the rectifier 

must be selected before the alarm adjustment can be made. However, when one 

module in a module group is adjusted the others will automatically be adjusted 

correspondingly. 

Select U1 - U4 

Select output mode for the system.. U1 is the normal charge voltage. U2 is the 

boost charge voltage. U3 is battery test voltage. U4 is a spare mode that may be 

used for a user defined purpose. 

U1 - U4 

Voltage reference for the different output modes.




Rev.: F 



Current limit 

Gives the possibility to select a maximum current for the system. As battery 

current in amps. (PCS/PCU5/10), or as rectifier current in percent of maximum 

capacity(PCU30). 

Low voltage alarm 

Adjusts the lower limit for voltage before the system gives alarm. 

High voltage alarm 

Adjusts the upper limit for voltage before the system gives alarm. 

Load/battery disconnection 

If the voltage falls below this limit during mains failure, the load/battery will be 

disconnected. 

Partial load disconnect 

Disconnection of lower prioritised load in order to extend backup time for 

important load. Disconnection is time controlled or voltage controlled. 

Load/battery connect 

If the battery is disconnected, it will be connected again if the voltage is above 

this limit and the mains returned. NOTE: Some systems do not include this 

function. 

Temperature limit 

Sets the upper limit for temperature before the system gives alarm 

Symmetry limit 

If the voltage in one block differs more than this limit, from the average block 

voltage, the systems will give alarm. 

End voltage battery test 

Lower limit for system voltage during test. If the voltage fall below this limit, 

the test will be stopped. An alarm will also be given. 

Battery test time 

Sets the maximum number of minutes a test may last. If this limit is reached the 

test will stop. 

Ah. limit for test 

Sets the energy that may be discharged from the battery during test. If this limit 

is reached the test will stop




Rev.: F 



Number of batteries 

Sets the number of branches on the battery that are equipped with symmetry 

measuring. 

Boost time 

Sets the duration of boost charging. 

Boost interval 

Sets the number of weeks between each boost. 

Boost factor 

Used to set the duration of boost after mains failure. See T1 LIMIT and T2 

LIMIT. 

T1 limit 

When the voltage reaches below this limit, the system starts counting time. 

When the voltage reaches over this limit again, the counting stops. The counted 

time is used in a function with the boost factor when the voltage reaches over 

T2 LIMIT. 

T2 limit 

When the system reaches over this limit the boost will start. The duration will 

be the time from T1 LIMIT multiplied with the boost factor. 

Over voltage shutdown 

If the voltage reaches over this limit, the rectifier which delivers the highest 

current will be switched off 

High load 

Entered in percent of the maximum power from the system. If the load current 

get higher this limit, the system will give alarm to signal that there may not be 

enough capacity to charge the battery. 

Test time 

Sets the time of day (0-23) when automatic test should start. E.g. 4 - the test 

starts at 04.00. 

Automatic test 

Sets how many times each year automatic test shall be performed. 

Battery type 

Sets the type of battery which connected. Indicates how many blocks each 

branch is divided into for symmetry measurements




Rev.: F 



Temperature compensating 

Activates the temperature compensation. The charging voltage will be adjusted 

continuously according to the compensation factor. 

Compensation factor 

The factor with which the charging voltage will be changed when the 

temperature compensation is active. The adjusted charging voltage refers to 20 

degrees C. If the temperature rises with 10 degrees, the voltage will be reduced 

according to the adjusted compensation factor. If the temperature goes down 

the voltage will be adjusted correspondingly. The adjustment is done 

continuously, which means that if the temperature is changed with 1 degree, the 

voltage will be changed with 1/10 of the compensation factor. 

16. Set date and time 

Adjustment of the internal clock in the PCU. 

16.1. System time 

Adjusts the time according to the time in the computer. 

16.2. Set installation data 

Change system information. This information will be displayed when 

connecting to the system. The information will not have an influence on the 

function of the system, but is necessary to identify the system. The values will 

be of interest to service personnel. The installation date should be set when the 

system is installed as it is used to calculate dates for battery tests.




Rev.: F 



17. Set system status (only PCU 30.00) 

17.1. Control module active 

Controls if the control module is allowed to regulate the output voltage of the 

rectifier modules. Should be active during normal operation. Will automatically 

be set "not active" at e.g. change of EPROM. The procedure is to adjust all 

parameters for voltage, alarms, levels etc. and then activate the control module. 

17.2. Automatic boost charging 

Sets the automatic boost charging (boost) active. Must only be activated if the 

batteries shall be boost charged. 

17.3. Temperature compensating 

Activates the temperature compensation. The charging voltage will be adjusted 

continuously according to the compensation factor. 

17.4. Compensation factor 

Is the factor with which the charging voltage will be changed when the 

temperature compensation is active. The adjusted charging voltage refers to 20 

degrees C. If the temperature rises with 10 degrees, the voltage will be reduced 

according to the adjusted compensation factor. If the temperature goes down 

the voltage will be adjusted correspondingly. The adjustment is done 

continuously, which means that if the temperature is changed with 1 degree, the 

voltage will be changed with 1/10 of the compensation factor. 

17.5. Modules 

Set the modules which are installed in the system. 1-31 are rectifier modules 

and 33 is the alarm unit (PAU). Tick off the installed rectifier modules. PAU 

(33) shall always be activated. 

17.6. Automatic test (only PCU with lower software versions than 3.20) 

States if an automatic test shall be executed once a year. PCU 30 with V3.20 or 

higher have several options for automatic test.




Rev.: F 



18. Transfer test data 

The 10 last tests are stored in the PCU. The one closest in time is number 0, 

while the oldest is number 9. In this window you can fetch an optional test and 

see the data for the test (e.g. number of measurements, end voltage, max. 

symmetry voltage). If you find the test interesting, the data can be stored in a 

file and be studied in the VIEW TEST DATA window or a spreadsheet. 

Click Preview to get a preview of the curve. 

PCS only: If there was any batteries with symmetry measuring during the test 

the symmetry voltages may be downloaded by clicking the Symmetries button. 

If the button is grey no data is available. Symmetries may be stored as normal 

battery test files. The files for each battery is saved separately, with a filename, 

block numbers 1-4 is added to the name to produce the full name. That means 

that the filename for each battery should not be more than 7 characters. 

19. Get all tests 

Gets all tests stored in the PCU and saves them on disk. You can enter the name 

of a file or use the first seven letters in the type description, and 0, 1, 2,.. will 

automatically be added to the file names of the belonging tests. The test data 

can thereafter be studied in the VIEW TEST DATA window or a spreadsheet. 

If you do not know what is included in the different tests, this is mush quicker 

than getting one and one test from TRANSFER TEST DATA. If the filename 

you enter generates a filename which already exists, the old file will 

automatically be deleted. 

20. Get battery log (PCS only) 

Selecting this will open the above window which download the battery log data 

that has been stored in the PCS the first of every month. Press Download to 

collect the data from the PCS, this will take a while, and is indicated by a 

progress bar. Click Save to save the log as a tabulator separated file that can be 

imported in Excel, and other programs.




Rev.: F 



21. Change password 

First enter your old password and press OK. If this is correct, you can enter 

your new password. Finally you will have to repeat your new password to avoid 

mistakes. 

22. Alarm history 

This windows shows a list of the last (up to) 40 alarms. By selecting a certain 

time in the list, the alarms that where active at that time are shown together 

with what change of alarm status occurred. 

23. Alarms/information 

The list shows all alarms that are active at the moment.




Rev.: F 



24. Module data 

This window shows data about the active module. The layout of this window 

depends on the connected system. However, a scrollbar will always be 

displayed in the upper part of the window. This scrollbar is used to select the 

module. The number at the right side of the scrollbar, shows the selected 

module. The number which is stated as module no. (below the scrollbar) shows 

the module for which the data is displayed. If you select another module with 

the scrollbar, the data for this module will be displayed after approximately 1 

second. 

25. Alarm dial back 

If needed the PCU/PCS can be set up to dial back to a certain number in case of 

an alarm. Tick off the alarms that should trigger a dial back. Enter the phone 

number, and enable dial back. Dial back require a modem connected to the 

PCU/PCS. Three modes of dial back is available. Server on change, is used




Rev.: F 



together with the PowCom phone server and the telephone number must be the 

number to that server. Note that this mode will dial repeatingly until contact has 

been made with the server, so do not use this in any other context. Pager on 

change will dial once each time the alam status change, ie also when alarms og 

away. Pager on new alarm will dial once when new alarms occur. To send a 

number to a pager set the phone number to NNNNNNNN@XXXXX , where 

NNNNNNNN is the number to the pager and XXXXX is the number that will 

be shown on the pager. 

26. Set network address 

New versions of the PCU software allow several control units to be connected 

to one serial port controlled by a PowCom network server. For this to work 

each of the PCU's must be given a unique address. The address must be 

between 2 and 255. 

27. Inventory (PCS only) 

Will display a list of all modules and units in a system controlled by the PCS. 

Selecting a module or unit and selecting View Unit/Module Info will show 

more information about the selected item. The Reconfigure button is used when 

modules or units are permanently removed from the system to tell the PCS that 

all items that is not communicating has actually been removed from the system. 

Make absolutely shure that there is no items not communicating because of a 

failure before doing this.




Rev.: F 



28. Log data 

If other data than battery tests are required from the system, this function can be 

used to log current, voltage etc. However, to use this function PowCom must be 

on-line with the system during the log period. 

The files generated by the logger, cannot be displayed in the VIEW TEST 

DATA window, but can be imported to a spreadsheet. 

29. View parameter file 

Files saved by the save command in the SET PARAMETERS window may be 

viewed and edited offline by selecting this command. This way a parameter file 

may be altered and restored to the system at a later stage. The command open a 

standard set parameter window for the system type of the system the original 

file was created by.




Rev.: F 



30. View test data 

This window displays test data graphically. Up to four charts can be displayed 

at the same time. Select the file you want to see from the file list. Ctrl.. together 

with the left push button on the mouse can be used to display several charts at 

the same time. 

You can select the value of the axis by using the combo boxes marked with X- 

axis and Y-axis. The most interesting is voltage as a function of Ah-discharged. 

This chart is useful for comparing data for different tests to see if the battery 

voltage falls faster during discharging than when the battery was new. 

To delete files use "drag-drop". Click on a file and drag it to the dustbin icon. 

The dustbin will open, and the file can be dropped into the dustbin. 

The test data files which looks interesting can be saved by using the built in 

database function. Pull the actual file to the database icon and drop them in the 

same way as when deleting files. 

To open a file in the database, double-click on the database icon. Thereafter 

select the files in the same way as in the file list.




Rev.: F 



To cancel the marking of all files in a list: Select only one file, push the Ctrl. 

button and click the left push button on the mouse over the selected file. 

The list boxes which covers the graphic area can be moved by clicking the right 

push button of the mouse and drag the window, or hidden by deselecting 

LEGEND. 

Print. 

By pushing the button marked PRINT a pop-up menu with the following 

options will be displayed: 

Full page. 

Printing the charts in the window in a full page version. The data for each chart 

is printed at the top of the sheet. 

Half page 

Printing the charts in the window on a half page. The data for each chart is 

printed at the top of the sheet. 

U, A, Ah 

Only available when one chart is selected. Prints voltage, current and ampere 

hours as a function of time in three different curves on one sheet. 

Measurements 

Prints the values of the test as text. 

Printer set-up 

Standard printer set-up picture for selecting printer and e.g. landscape and 

portrait. 

Copying to Clipboard 

Copies the chart to the clipboard enabling the user to paste it into a document in 

another program, e.g. Word. To paste the chart into a Word document, select 

PASTE SPECIAL in Word and select PICTURE from the list. The chart will be 

pasted in the Word document and can be scaled in Word. To paste the 

information texts about the different charts select PASTE SPECIAL once more 

and select UNFORMATTED TEXT.




Rev.: F 



31. PCS configuration updater (PCS only) 

If the configuration of the PCS need to be updated you can get a file from 

Powec that can be used to do that. First select the file, then click on the Transfer 

data to PCS button, and then the Store config in flash button. Only a file made 

specially for the current configuration can be used . 

32. Button bar 

Opens the window for selection of baud-rate and serial port. 

Opens the phone list for communication via modem. 

Starts direct communication. 

Opens network connection window. 

Opens Set parameters window. (Only when communication is established.) 

Opens View test data window.




Rev.: F 



33. Glossary 

B 

baud-rate: speed. Can be 2400, 4800 or 9600 depending of type of modem and set-up 

C 

call-back: modems can be adjusted in a way that when the modem has been called and 

when the correct password is stated, the modem hangs up and call back a programmed 

number. This is not a function which is available for all types of modems and some types 

of modem will not work together if this function is used. See the user manual for the 

modem for more information. If this function is used, it is possible to transfer a password 

and thereafter wait for the modem to return your call. 

clipboard: clipboard in Windows. Whatever is put here, can be pasted into documents in 

other programmes. 

combo-boxes: combo-box is a text area which shows a text together with a push button. 

When pushing this button a list will pop up below the text window, enabling the user to 

choose another option 

D 

drag-drop: on an object and drag it over another object: Choose a file. While pressing the 

left push button on the mouse, drag it over another object and release the push button 

again.


Technical Specification 

Doc.No:026892-.doc 

Prepared by: Marius Tannum Date: 24. October 2000 

Preliminary Specification of the 

Powec Network Interface 

1. GENERAL .............................................................................................................................................................................. 2 

2. FUNCTIONAL SPECIFICATION...................................................................................................................................... 2 

2.1 CONFIGURATION OF THE POWEC NETWORK INTERFACE..................................................................................2 

2.2 SUPERVISION USING POWCOM AND THE ALARM CENTRAL..............................................................................3 

2.3 SUPERVISION USING THE SNMP PROTOCOL.........................................................................................................3 

3. ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATION....................................................................................................................................... 3 

4. MECHANICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................... 4 

5. PICTURES ............................................................................................................................................................................. 4 

This specification is preliminary and may be changed without notice 

Date: 26.04.012 

4.04.01 

PRELIMINARY DRAFT




Page: 2 of 5 


1. General 

The PowCom Network Interface is an embedded network server specifically suited to serve the 

Powec Power Supply systems (PPS5, PPS10 and PPS25). All the information gathered by either a 

Powec Control Unit (PCU) or the Powec Control System (PCS) will be available and accessible on 

a TCP/IP network. 

Two methods for remote monitoring will be available in the first release of the PowCom Network 

Interface: 

q 

q 

Monitoring by using the PowCom Alarm Central and PowCom. 

Monitoring over SNMP protocol (limited to SNMP Get and SNMP Trap). 

2. Functional Specification 

The Powec Network interface connects to the 9-pin D-sub connector in front of the PCU/PCS 

using a null-modem cable. Ethernet is connected to the interface by using a standard patch cable with 

RJ45 plug. 

When the unit is turned on it will automatically start to look for a PCU or a PCS connected to the 

RS232 interface. The control module will be available on the TCP/IP network as soon as the RS232 

communication has been established between the PCU/PCS and the Powec Network Interface. 

A modem can be connected to a separate COM port on the Powec Network Interface. The modem 

will function as backup communication in case of a failure on the TCP/IP network. The Powec 

Network Interface will break the communication with the PCU and let the modem communicate 

directly to the PCU if activity is detected on the modem COM port. The communication is switched 

back to the Powec Network Interface when the modem stops to send data to the PCU. 

2.1 Configuration of the Powec Network Interface 

Initially network information such as IP address, Netmask and Hostname has to be specified. The 

unit will primarily be set up with a static IP address, but a DHCP client can be provided if 

dynamically allocated IP addresses are needed. The network interface can be set up with the correct 

network information by using a small Windows program on a laptop computer. The computer 

communicates with the Powec Network Interface over the RS232 port. The set-up program can 

also check the network connection to the Powec Network Server by opening a connection over the 

computer network to the specified IP address.




Page: 3 of 5 


New software version for the Powec Network Interface can be uploaded to the interface by using a 

FTP program. System diagnostics and troubleshooting can be done by connecting to the Powec 

Network Interface with telnet. 

2.2 Supervision using PowCom and the Alarm Central 

Supervision of the power supply system can be done anywhere from a computer connected to the 

computer network. The PowCom Alarm Central program can connect to many Powec Network 

Interfaces and can show the connected systems in a hierarchy of windows. Each system will have an 

icon that change colour and will give a sound alarm if the alarm status for that system changes. 

Detailed information for a specific system such as battery discharge curves, alarm history, symmetry 

voltages and currents will be given by clicking on the icon and thereby opening a network connection 

to that system with the PowCom program. 

2.3 Supervision using the SNMP protocol 

The first release of the Powec Network Interface will have support for SNMPv1 ”get” and 

SNMPv1 ”Trap” by using the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). This protocol is 

widely used for monitoring networked equipment where an SNMP Manager (i.e. HP OpenViewe) 

polls information from SNMP Agents in the network. The Powec Network Interface has an 

embedded SNMP Agent that will answer to SNMP ”get” requests for voltages, currents, system 

information and alarm information. The embedded SNMP Agent will also send notifications called 

SNMP Traps to the SNMP Manager if an alarm occurs. Traps will also be sent from each of the 

two external contact closure inputs. Six IP addresses for Trap Reciepients can be set both by the 

Configuration program and by SNMP Set command. 

To get in-depth information about the power supply system and to be able to set parameters the 

PowCom program must be used. The ability to set parameters with an SNMP manager will most 

likely be added in future releases of the Powec Network Server. 

3. Electrical Specification 

Ethernet: 

q Supports IEEE 802.3 Ethernet Standard. 

q Full Duplex Switched Ethernet. 

q 10BASE-T Driver/Receiver with line transformer and EMI filter. 

Serial Port: 

q 1 RS232 Port: Industry-standard 16550A-compatible UART. 

q 1 RS232 Port for Modem. 

I/O: 

q Two contact closure inputs to monitor external signals (i.e. door switches). 

Processor:




Page: 4 of 5 


q 

AMD Élan TM SC400 80486 compatible 33 MHz CPU. 

Power: 

q Power Consumption less than 2W. 

q Supply Voltages of either +24V DC, –48V or 60V DC. 

4. Mechanical and Environmental Specifications 

q 

q 

q 

Size 128x83x34 mm. 

Operation temperature (case): -10 to 50°C. 

Storage temperature: -40 to 85°C. 

5. Pictures 

Picture 1 – Front View.




Page: 5 of 5 


Picture 2 – Back View.

powec as - Armspower.com

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