Ascon tecnologic A01 User manual

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 1
A01
Universal “Key” for a fast and
reliable Ascon Tecnologic
instruments configuration
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Vr. 04 (ENG) - 19/06 - cod.: ISTR-MA01ENG04
Ascon Tecnologic S.r.l.
Viale Indipendenza 56, 27029 Vigevano (PV) - ITALY
Tel.: [phone]/FAX: [phone]
www.ascontecnologic.com
e-mail: [email protected]
1. INTRODUCTION
The new key is able to operate with 4 different “objects”:
–One instrument;
–A second key:
–A Personal computer;
–A Personal computer and one instrument.
The key is subject to different “rules” according to the different
connected object and to the action to be made.
Note: The key is able to store all the configuration
parameters of one instrument at a time.
1.1 Dialogue between Keys and Instruments
It is possible to perform two different actions:
–Copy parameter values from an instrument memory to the
key memory.
–Copy parameter values from the key memory to an
instrument memory.
No specific rules must be enabled when copying the
instrument memory to the key memory (is always possible);
this action copies all parameters (when present, also the
program parameters).
On the other side, to copy the key memory data to an
instrument, prior to perform the transfer to the controller,
the conditions that guarantee the configuration integrity are
tested.
These conditions ensure that the configuration that we are
sending to the controller:
1. Has been created for the same instrument type;
2. Uses the resources built in the instrument itself.
1.2 Dialogue between two keys
This action is subject to no specific rules (is always possible)
this action copies all parameters (when present, also the
program parameters [thermal profiles]).
The dialogue between two keys of different type is not
allowed (a new key with an old one).
1.3 Dialogue between a key and a PC
This action is subject to no specific rules (is always possible)
this action copies all parameters (when present, also the
program parameters [thermal profiles] and, if available, the
logging data).
WARNING! The key does not verify the congruence of the
data coming from a PC. The software in the
PC must be able to perform all tests necessary
to ensure the integrity and congruence of the
configuration that is to be transferred to the key.
Note: If the configuration in the PC has been copied from a
controller, the data are certainly congruent.
For this kind of dialogue, the key can be set to perform (or not)
a special service related to the protocol used by Ascon
Tecnologic instruments to transfer data through TTL interface.
All Ascon Tecnologic instruments (exception made for TLZ)
use ModBus protocol for all interfaces but on the TTL interface
they put 3 (FF) character before the standard string. These
characters are used by the instrument ro recognize the
“silence” between two strings and identify the beginning of a
new string.
By setting properly the dip switches, it is possible to obtain a
dialogue with or without the 3 additional characters (FF).
1.4 Dialogue between an instrument and a
PC through the key
In this action the key is used as a smart converter. The key
is able to perform two different conversions:
–TTL <-> USB allows the dialogue between ALL Ascon
Tecnologic instruments and a PC;
–RS 485 <-> USB allows the dialogue between a PC and an
instrument [Ascon Tecnologic or not] equipped with an RS485.
Also in this case the key can be set to filter or not the 3 (FF)
characters.
The “smart” definition not only shows the ability to add/
filter the additional FF characters but also the capability to
automatically manage the direction of the RS485 line.
Note: Also in this case, the key does not verify the congruence
of the data coming from a PC. The software in the PC
must be able to perform all tests necessary to ensure
the integrity and congruence of the configuration that is
to be transferred to the key.

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 2
2. HOW TO OPERATE
2.1 Loading the key driver on a Windows
based computer
1. Power up the key by the external power supply;
2. Set the dip switches as shown below;
ON
3. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable. The
Operating System will detect a “Found New hardware”;
4. When the system shows the message “Allow to connect
Windows Update to search for software” Select “Not yet”
and push “Next”;
5. Select “Display a list of the known drivers...”;
6. Select “Include this location in the search”;
7. Make access to the CD received with the key and select
the sub-directory: XpDriver/ or VistaDriver/ according to
the used operative system;
8. Push “Next”;
9. Push “Finish”;
10. Disconnect the key and connect it again.
Note: The A01 driver can be freely downloaded from our
Internet site:
Ascon Tecnologic: www. ascontecnologic.com
selection: download.
2.2 How to set the serial communications
parameters
1. Enter in “Control panel”;
2. Run “System”;
3. Select “Hardware”;
4. Click on “Device manager”;
5. Mouse left button double click on “Ports”;
6. Double click on Tecnologic USB_Key_A01;
7. Select “Port setting”;
8. Click on “Advanced”;
9. Force the desired communications number.
2.3 Connections
Note: This device is designed for the temporary connection
to the instruments.
Connection to an instrument using an external power supply
(instrument not powered).
Power supply
VAC9 VDC
Start
PWS 12 V
A B C TTL
+-
USB to PC
Connection to an instrument without external power
supply (the instrument must be powered).
Power supply
Start
PWS 12 V
A B C TTL
+-
USB to PC
RS485 connection.
A
B
C
A
B
C
Controller
A
B
C
Controller
2.4 Instrument behaviour at Power ON
Power ON the instrument. After 1.5 seconds the LED can be:
LED OFF = Device not programmed.
Send the instrument back to the supplier;
Green LED, flashing fast = The device is properly pro-
grammed but no data are present in memory;
Red LED, flashing fast = The device is properly pro-
grammed but a checksum error has been detected.
The error will be corrected automatically:
• Power OFF the instrument and power ON it again.
• If the error persists, send the device back to the supplier.
Green LED, steady ON = The device is properly programmed
(a correct configuration is stored);
Red LED, steady ON = The device is set in order to operate
with a PC.

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 3
2.5 How to access to the DIP switches
1. Raise the cover (A).
2. The DIP switches are easily identifiable (Microswitches).
Start
A B C TTL
ON
DIP Switches
A
ON
OFF
2.6 Operative mode selection
2.6.1 Mode 1 - Firmware version detection
To detect the version of the Firmware loaded in the key,
proceed as follows:
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Power the device via the USB connection or an external
power supply;
3. Push the “Start” button;
4. The double colour LED present in the key, repeatedly
lights up with green colour; the number of flashes
indicates the firmware revision number.
5. After reporting the version, the LED will light up with red
colour to indicate that the process has ended.
6. After about 1 s, the LED returns to the steady green colour.
2.6.2 Mode 2 - Copying all parameters from an
instrument to a key (Upload)
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below;
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are powered
(Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the 5 pin connector;
4. Make sure the LED is lighted in green (steady or flashing);
5. Push the “Start” button;
6. The LED shows the steady red colour to indicate that the
command is in progress;
7. Wait for a few seconds.
At the end of the copy procedure the LED can be:
• Steady green: Operation properly terminated.
–The key can be removed.
–The key has stored a valid configuration.
• RED, slow frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The key has been withdrawn before the operation
has ended;
–A communication error occurred;
–The device contains no valid data.
The action must be repeated.
2.6.3 Mode 3 - How to copy all data from a key
to an instrument
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are powered
(Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument;
4. Make sure the LED is lighted in green (steady or flashing);
5. Push the “Start” button;
6. The LED shows the steady red colour to indicate that the
command is in progress;
7. Wait for a few seconds.
At the end of the copy procedure the LED can be:
• Steady green: Operation properly terminated.
–The key can be removed.
–The key has stored a valid configuration.
• RED, slow frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The key has been withdrawn before the operation
has ended;
–A communication error occurred;
–“PACS” parameter (enables/disables the instrument
remote configuration) is set to disable the remote
instrument configuration.
–The instrument has retained the data it had before
the transfer attempt.
• RED, fast frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The configuration stored in the key is not compatible
with the connected instrument.
–An attempt was made to transfer the configuration
for a new instrument to an old controller.
In any case, both the key and the instrument maintain
the previously stored configuration.
2.6.4 Mode 5 - Copying the configuration only
from a key to an instrument
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are powered
(Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the 5 pin connector;
4. Make sure the LED is lighted in green (steady or flashing);
5. Push the “Start” button;
6. The LED shows the steady red colour to indicate that the
command is in progress;
7. Wait for a few seconds.
At the end of the copy procedure the LED can be:
• Steady green: Operation properly terminated.
–The key can be removed.
–The key has stored a valid configuration.
• RED, slow frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The key has been withdrawn before the operation
has ended;
–A communication error occurred;
–“PACS” parameter (enables/disables the instrument
remote configuration) is set to disable the remote

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 4
instrument configuration.
–The instrument has retained the data it had before
the transfer attempt.
• RED, fast frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The configuration stored in the key is not compatible
with the connected instrument.
–An attempt was made to transfer the configuration
for a new instrument to an old controller.
In any case, both the key and the instrument maintain
the previously stored configuration.
2.6.5 Mode 7 - Copying the program area only
from a key to an instrument
Note: This action is possible if programmer functions are
present.
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are powered
(Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the 5 pin connector;
4. Make sure the LED is lighted in green (steady or flashing);
5. Push the “Start” button;
6. The LED shows the steady red colour to indicate that the
command is in progress;
7. Wait for a few seconds.
At the end of the copy procedure the LED can be:
• Steady green: Operation properly terminated.
–The key can be removed.
–The key has stored a valid configuration.
• RED, slow frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The key has been withdrawn before the operation
has ended;
–A communication error occurred;
–“PACS” parameter (enables/disables the instrument
remote configuration) is set to disable the remote
instrument configuration.
–The instrument has retained the data it had before
the transfer attempt.
• RED, fast frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The configuration stored in the key is not compatible
with the connected instrument.
–An attempt was made to transfer the configuration
for a new instrument to an old controller.
In any case, both the key and the instrument maintain
the previously stored configuration.
2.6.6 Mode 9 - Copying all parameters from
master key (A) to slave key (B)
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
Master Slave
ON ON
2. Make shure that at least one of the keys is powered with
an externa power supply;
3. Connect the two keys each other (the 2 keys must have
the button in the same direction);
4. Control that the LED of the SOURCE key is lighted in
green colour, the LED of the destination key must be
lighted in green colour, but can be steady or flashing;
5. Push the “Start” button on one of the 2 keys;
6. The LED of the key on which has been pressed the
“Start” button, shows the steady red colour to indicate
that the command is in progress;
7. Wait for a few seconds.
The LED of the key on which has been pressed the
“Start” button can be:
• Steady green: Operation properly terminated.
–The key can be removed.
–The two keys contain the same configuration.
• RED, slow frequency flashing: Copy failed.
One of the following conditions occurred:
–The key has been withdrawn before the operation
has ended;
–A communication error occurred;
–The Slave key contains no valid data;
–In any case, the Master key cointains the original
configuration.
Repeat the whole sequence.
2.6.7 Mode 10 - Using the key as a smart
USB <-> RS485 converter
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are
powered (Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the RS485
terminals;
4. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable;
5. Make sure that the key LED is steady red.
6. Verify the setting of the interface stored by the PC;
7. During serial communications, the LED flashes all the
time that the Master sends a request.

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 5
2.6.8 Mode 11 - Using the key as a smart
USB <-> TTL converter without FF filter
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are
powered (Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the 5 pin connector;
4. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable;
5. Make sure that the key LED is steady red.
6. Verify the setting of the interface stored by the PC;
7. During serial communications, the LED flashes all the
time that the Master sends a request.
2.6.9 Mode 12 - Using the key as a smart
USB <-> TTL converter with FF filter
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the instrument and/or the key are powered
(Chapter 3);
3. Connect the key to the instrument using the 5 pin connector;
4. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable;
5. Make sure that the key LED is steady red.
6. Verify the setting of the interface stored by the PC;
7. During serial communications, the LED flashes all the
time that the Master sends a request.
2.6.10 Mode 13 - Dialogue between the key and
a PC without FF filter
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the key is powered ;
3. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable;
4. Make sure that the key LED is steady red.
5. Verify the setting of the interface stored by the PC;
6. During serial communications, the LED flashes all the
time that the Master sends a request.
2.6.11 Mode 14 - Dialogue between the key and
a PC with FF filter
1. Set the DIP switches as shown below:
ON
2. Make sure that the key is powered ;
3. Connect the key to the PC using the USB cable;
4. Make sure that the key LED is steady red.
5. Verify the setting of the interface stored by the PC;
6. During serial communications, the LED flashes all the
time that the Master (PC) sends a request.
Summary table of the DIP Switches position
DIP Switch position
Mode SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 Function
1 OFF ON ON ON Firmware version detection
2 OFF OFF ON ON Copying all parameters from an instrument to a key (Upload)
3 ON ON ON ON Copying all data from a key to an instrument.
4 ON OFF ON ON Reserved
5 OFF OFF OFF ON Copying the configuration only from a key to an instrument.
6 ON OFF OFF ON Reserved
7 ON ON OFF ON Copying the program area only from a key to an instrument.
8 OFF ON OFF ON Reserved
9ON ON ON ON Copying from a key to another - A (master) key
OFF OFF ON ON Copying from a key to another - B (slave) key
10 ON ON ON OFF USB – RS 485 converter
11 OFF ON ON OFF USB – TTL converter without FF filter
12 ON OFF ON OFF USB – TTL converter with FF filter
13 OFF ON OFF OFF Dialogue between the key and a PC without FF filter
14 OFF OFF ON OFF Dialogue between the key and a PC with FF filter
2.7 Error messages
Function LED Reason Action
UPLOAD Flashing RED The transfer has been stopped and the key stored
no the new configurations Verify the compatibility of the configuration
stored in the key with the connected instru-
ment. Repeat the action
DOWNLOAD Low frequency
flashing RED
The transfer has been stopped and the key stored
no the new configurations
DOWNLOAD Flashing GREEN No configuration is stored in the key Load a configuration prior to try the transfer
DOWNLOAD High frequency
flashing RED
The configuration stored in the key is not
compatible with the instrument connected Verify the configuration compatibility

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 6
3. CHARACTERISTICS
3.1 Technical Data
Case: Self-estinguishing plastic degree V0 according to UL94;
Dimensions:
43
Start
PWS 12 V
A B C TTL
18 73 25
+-
USB to PC
Connector TTL: JST S 5B-PH-KL - 2 mm;
Connector TTL female: SAMTEC SQT-105-02-L-S - 2 mm;
Connector RS485: Phoenix MC 1,5/3-G-3.5;
Connector USB: Mini-USB;
Push buttons: 1;
LED: 1 two colour LED (red and green);
Power supply: VDC, 1.3 mm jack;
DIP switches: 4 microswitches;
Operating temperature: 0... 50°C (32... 122°F).
Storage temperature: -20... +70°C (-4... +158°F).
Relative Humidity: 20... 80% RH without condensation;
Pollution degree: II.
3.2 Electrical Data
External Power Supply
Voltage: 9... 12 VDC;
Consumption: 150 mA max. a 9VDC (with no instrument);
Connector: DC power; 1.3 mm Jack;
RS485 Interface
Type: Not isolated;
Cable length: 3 m max.;
Electrical levels: According with RS485 standard;
Line speed: 1200... 38400 baud;
Parity: None;
Format: 8 bit;
Start Bit: 1;
Stop Bit: 1.
TTL Interface
Type: Not isolated;
Cable length: 3 m max.;
Electrical levels: 5 V according with TTL standard;
Line speed: 1200... 38400 baud;
Parity: None;
Format: 8 bit;
Start Bit: 1;
Stop Bit: 1.
USB Interface
Type: 2.0.
Memory dimension
Memory: The key memory is divided in 2 areas:
1. Memory area for configuration parameters;
2. Memory area for programs (or logging);
Both areas can store 500 parameters maximum.
Power supply
The key can be powered in two different ways according to the connected instrument type and of the action you desire.
The following table defines the necessary supply type in the various conditions.
Instrument family PIN Function External power supply Instrument power supply
TLK 43
TLK 48 3
Copy from a key to an instrument Ye s Ye s
Copy from an instrument to a key Ye s Ye s
Copy from PC to instrument with a key (TTL) Ye s Ye s
Copy from PC to instrument with a key (485) Ye s Ye s
Others and futures 5
Copy from a key to an instrument Only one must be supplied
Copy from an instrument to a key Only one must be supplied
Copy from PC to instrument with a key (TTL) Ye s Ye s
Copy from PC to instrument with a key (485) Ye s Ye s
From a key to a key or
to a PC 5
From a key to another key At least one key mnly one must be supplied
Copy from a key to a PC Ye s --s
Copy from a PC to a key Ye s --
In all cases both power supplies are allowed.

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 7
4. GENERAL NOTES
4.1 Proper Usage
Every possible use not described in this manual must be
consider as a improper use.
Ascon Tecnologic S.r.l. and its legal representatives do
not assume any responsibility for any damage to people,
things or animals deriving from violation, wrong or
improper use or in any case not in compliance with the
instrument features.
4.2 Maintenance
1. Remove Power from the Power Supply;
2. Using a vacuum cleaner or a compressed air jet (max.
3 kg/cm2) remove all deposits of dust and dirt which may
be present on the louvers of the connectors.
3. Remove the cover of the dip switches and, using an air
jet, remove all deposit of dust and dirt which may be
present on the internal circuits trying to be careful to not
damage the electronic components.
4. Clean external plastic or rubber parts use only a cloth
moistened with:
• Ethyl Alcohol (pure or denatured) [C2H5OH];
• Isopropil Alcohol (pure or denatured) [(CH3)2CHOH];
• Water (H2O);
5. Before using the key, be sure that it is perfectly dry;
6. Re-connect the Power supply to Power.
4.3 Disposal
The appliance (or the product) must be
disposed of separately in compliance
with the local standards in force on
waste disposal.
5. WARRANTY AND REPAIRS
This product is under warranty against manufacturing flaws
or faulty materials that are found within 18 months from de-
livery date. The warranty is limited to repairs or to the replace-
ment of the instrument.
The tampering of the instrument or an improper use of the product
will bring about the immediate withdrawal of the warranty effects.
In the event of a faulty instrument, either within the period of
warrantee, or further to its expiry, please contact our sales
department to obtain authorisation for sending the instrument
to our company.
The faulty product must be shipped to Ascon Tecnologic with a
detailed description of the fault found, without any fees or charge
for Tecnologic, except in the event of alternative agreements.
6. ORDER CODE
A01 - Universal Key
Model
A01 - = Universal Key
TTL Connector
3= 3 PIN
5= 5 PIN
AC Adapter
E= 230 VAC
-= None
Accesories
S= Cable USB + Connector 485
-= None
Package
-= Standard
N= Neutral
A01

Ascon Tecnologic - A01 - Instruction Manual - PAG. 8