ATO SPE-2000H User manual

Manual
SPE-2000H
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

1
Contents
1. Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 1
§1.1 Preface................................................................................................................................1
§1.2 Features.............................................................................................................................. 1
§1.3 Principle of Measurement...................................................................................................2
§1.4 Parts Identification............................................................................................................. 2
§1.5 Typical Applications........................................................................................................... 5
§1.6 Data Integrity and Built-in Time-Keeper............................................................................5
§1.7 Product Identification......................................................................................................... 5
§1.8 Specifications..................................................................................................................... 6
2. Starting Measurement.....................................................................................................................7
§2.1 Built-in Battery...................................................................................................................7
§2.2 Power On............................................................................................................................7
§2.3 Keypad............................................................................................................................... 8
§2.4 Menu Windows................................................................................................................... 8
§2.5 Menu Windows Arrangement............................................................................................. 9
§2.6 Steps to Configure the Parameters....................................................................................10
§2.7 Transducers Mounting Allocation.....................................................................................11
§2.8 Transducers Installation....................................................................................................12
§2.8.1 Transducers Spacing..............................................................................................12
§2.8.2 V-method Installation.............................................................................................12
§2.8.3 Z-method Installation............................................................................................ 13
§2.8.4 W-method Installation........................................................................................... 13
§2.8.5 N-method Installation............................................................................................ 14
§2.9 Installation Checkup.........................................................................................................14
§2.9.1 Signal Strength...................................................................................................... 14
§2.9.2 Signal Quality........................................................................................................14
§2.9.3 Total Transit Time and Delta Time.........................................................................14
§2.9.4 Time Ratio between the Measured Total Transit Time and the Calculated Time ...15
3. How To.........................................................................................................................................16
§3.1 How to judge if the instrument works properly................................................................ 16
§3.2 How to judge the liquid flowing direction........................................................................ 16
§3.3 How to change between units systems..............................................................................16
§3.4 How to select a required flow rate unit............................................................................. 16
§3.5 How to use the totalizer multiplier....................................................................................16
§3.6 How to open or shut the totalizers.................................................................................... 16
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

2
§3.7 How to reset the totalizers................................................................................................ 16
§3.8 How to restore the flow meter withdefault setups............................................................ 17
§3.9 How to use the damper..................................................................................................... 17
§3.10 How to use the zero-cutoff function................................................................................17
§3.11 How to setup a zero point............................................................................................... 17
§3.12 How to get a scale factorfor calibration......................................................................... 17
§3.13 How to use the operation locker......................................................................................17
§3.14 How to use the built-in data logger................................................................................. 18
§3.15 How to use the Frequency Output...................................................................................18
§3.16 How to use the TotalizerPulse Output............................................................................18
§3.17 How to produce an alarm signal..................................................................................... 19
§3.18 How to use the built-in Buzzer....................................................................................... 19
§3.19 How to use the OCT output............................................................................................ 19
§3.20 How to modify the built-in calendar............................................................................... 19
§3.21 How to adjust the LCD contrast......................................................................................20
§3.22 How to use the RS232 serial interface............................................................................ 20
§3.23 How to view the Date Totalizers..................................................................................... 20
§3.24 How to use the Working Timer....................................................................................... 20
§3.25 How to use the manual totalizer......................................................................................20
§3.26 How to check the ESN and other minor details.............................................................. 20
§3.27 How to know how long the batterywill last....................................................................20
§3.28 How to charge the built-in battery.................................................................................. 20
4. Menu Window Details.................................................................................................................. 21
5.Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................ 26
§5.1 Power-on Error Displays and Counter-Measures..............................................................26
§5.2 Error Code and Counter-Measures................................................................................... 26
§5.3 Other Problems and Solutions.......................................................................................... 27
6. Communication Protocol..............................................................................................................29
§6. 0 General............................................................................................................................ 29
§6.1 Interface Pin-out Definition.............................................................................................. 29
§6.2 the Protocol...................................................................................................................... 29
§6.3 Protocol Prefix Usage.......................................................................................................30
§6.4 Codes for the Keypad....................................................................................................... 31
7. Warranty and Service....................................................................................................................32
§7.1 Warranty........................................................................................................................... 32
§7.2 Service..............................................................................................................................32
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

3
§7.2 Software Upgrade Service................................................................................................ 32
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping
1
1. Introduction
§1.1 Preface
Welcome to use Our Ultrasonic flow meter that has been manufactured with patent technologies
and is equipped with more functions and advanced performance than our previous versions.
Our U ltrasonic flow meter has been upgraded based on the Old Version ,retains most of the
excellent features and functions of the previous versions: the pulse measurement technology, the
ultrasonic igniting and the small signal receiving circuits etc. The main improvements are made on
the battery supply circuit and on the transmitting circuits. All other circuits are simply integrated
into this new version without major modifications, due to the fact that we have already applied the
most advanced measurement technologies and attained a more reliable model of ultrasonic flow
meter.
Our Ultrasonic Flow Meter is using latest ICs the famous semiconductor manufacturers like
Philips, Maxim, TI, Winbond, and Xilinx. The hardware features the ease of operation, high
accuracy and outstanding reliability, while the software provides a very user friendly interface and
much more functions. It employs a patent balanced lower voltage multi-pulse igniting circuit which
increases the anti-interference ability magnificently so that the flow meter will work properly even
in demanding industrial environments such as those with power frequency transverter working
nearby.
Other outstanding features:
----the signal receiving circuits feature self-adapting performance so as to ensure that the user can
easily operate the instrument without any adjustment.
----the built-in rechargeable Ni-H battery can work continuously for more than 12 hours without
recharge.
The advanced circuit design, the integration of the latest semiconductors, the user-friendly software
interface both in English and Chinese languages and small-sized PCB board, all these features
combine to make the ultrasonic flow meter. Moreover, it is gaining more and more recognition on
the international flow meter market
§1.2 Features
* 0.5% of linearity * 0.2% of repeatability
* Bilingual interface in Chinese and English * 4 flow totalizers
* Patent balanced lower-voltage multi-pulse * built-in date totalizers
ultrasonic igniting * built-in data-logger
* Work properly near transverters * 0.5 second totalizing period
* 100 Pico-second resolution of time measurement

2
§1.3 Principle of Measurement
Our Ultrasonic flow meter is designed to measure the fluid velocity of liquid within a closed
conduit. The transducers are a non-contacting, clamp-on type, which will provide benefits of non-
fouling operation and easy installation.
The transit time flow meter utilizes two transducers that function as both ultrasonic transmitters and
receivers. The transducers are clamped on the outside of a closed pipe at a specific distance from
each other. The transducers can be mounted in V-method where the sound transverses the pipe
twice, or W-method where the sound transverses the pipe four times, or in Z-method where the
transducers are mounted on opposite sides of the pipe and the sound crosses the pipe once. This
selection of the mounting method depends on pipe and liquid characteristics. The flow meter
operates by alternately transmitting and receiving a frequency modulated burst of sound energy
between the two transducers and measuring the transit time that it takes for sound to travel between
the two transducers. The difference in the transit time measured is directly and exactly related to
the velocity of the liquid in the pipe, as shown in Figure1.
VMD 
sin2
T
Tup Tdown
Down stream transducer
Where
θis the include angle to the flow direction
Mis the travel times of the ultrasonic beam
Dis the pipe diameter
Tup is the time for the beam from upstream transducer to the downstream one
Tdown is the time for the beam from downstream transducer to the upstream
one
ΔT=Tup –Tdown
§1.4 Parts Identification
Converter:
Tdown
Tup
θ
flow
spacing
Upstream transducer
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

3
Top wierw
Upstream transducer socket Downstream transducer socket
Front wiew
HANDHOLD
FLOWMETER
ESN=200408008H
LCD display
ULTRASONIC FLOWMETER
ON OFF
CHARG E
LED charge indicator
Keypad
Bottom wiew
Pins for battery recharge RS232C communication interface
UP
DN
K
7
8
9
MEN U
4
5
6
1
2
3
0
•
ENT
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

4
Red Terminal
Red Terminal
Blue Terminal
Blue Termina
Red Terminal
Red Terminal
Transducers:
Standard-HS (20mm-100mm)
(Optional Accessaries)
Cable 5m x2
5m
l
Extended Cable 5m x2(Optional Accessaries)
5m
Blue Terminal
Blue Terminal
Standard-HM (50mm-700mm)
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

5
Converted Terminal and AC/DC Adapter
Cable of RS-232C interface
1m
§1.5 Typical Applications
Our flow meter can be virtually applied to a wide range of measurements. The measured
pipe ranges 20-6000 mm [0.5 - 200 inch]. A variety of liquid applications can be accommodated:
ultra-pure liquids, potable water, chemicals, raw sewage, reclaimed water, cooling water, river
water, plant effluent, etc. Because the instrument and transducers are non-contacting and have no
moving parts, the flow meter can not be affected by system pressure, fouling or wear. Standard
transducers are rated to 110 ºC. Higher temperatures can be accommodated. For further
information, please consult the manufacturer for assistance.
§1.6 Data Integrity and Built-in Time-Keeper
All user-inputted configuration values are retained in the built-in non-volatile flash memory that
can store them for over 100 years, even if power is lost or turned off. Password protection is
provided to avoid inadvertent configuration changes or totalizer resets.
A time-keeper is integrated in the flow meter for the index of date totalizing and works as the time
base of flow accumulation. It keeps operating as long as the battery’s terminal voltage is over 1.5V.
In case of battery failure, the time-keeper will not keep running and it will lose proper time values.
The user must re-enter proper time values in case the battery becomes totally exhausted. An
improper time value affects no other functions but the date totalizer.
§1.7 Product Identification
Each set of the Meinte flow meter has a unique product identification or ESN written into the
software that can only be modified with a special tool by the manufacturer. In case of any hardware
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

6
failure, please provide this number which is located on menu window number M61 when
contacting the manufacture.
§1.8 Specifications
Linearity
0.5%
Repeatability
0.2%
Accuracy
±1% of reading at rates>0.2 mps
Response Time
0-999 seconds, user-configurable
Velocity
±10m/s
Pipe Size
20mm-6000mm
Rate Units
Meter, Feet, Cubic Meter, Liter, Cubic Feet, USA Gallon, Imperial
Gallon, Oil Barrel, USA Liquid Barrel, Imperial Liquid Barrel, Million
USA Gallons. User configurable.
Totalizer
7-digit totals for net, positive and negative flow respectively
Liquid Types
Virtually all liquids
Security
Setup values Modification Lockout. Access code needs unlocking
Display
4x8 Chinese characters or 4x16 English letters
Communication
Interface
RS-232C, baud-rate: from 75 to 57600. Protocol made by the
manufacturer and compatible with that of the FUJI ultrasonic flow
meter. User protocols can be made on enquiry.
Transducers
Model M1 for standard, other 3 models for optional
Transducer Cord Length
Standard 2x10 meters, optional 2x 500 meters
Power Supply
3 AAA Ni-H built-in batteries. When fully recharged it will last over
10 hours of operation.
Data Logger
Built-in data logger can store over 2000 lines of data
Manual Totalizer
7-digit press-key-to-go totalizer for calibration
Housing Material
ABS
Case Size
180x145x40mm
Handset Weight
514g (1.2 lbs) with batteries
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

7
2. Starting Measurement
§2.1 Built-in Battery
The instrument can operate either from the built-in Ni-H rechargeable battery, which will last
over 10 hours of continuous operation when fully recharged, or from an external AC/power
supply from the battery charger.
The battery charging circuits employ a scheme of constant-current and constant-voltage. It has
a characteristic of fast charging at the beginning and very slow charging when the battery
approaches to full recharge. Generally, when the green LED starts coming on, the battery
would be nearly 95% recharged and when the red LED is off, the battery would be 98%
recharged.
Since the charging current becomes tapered when the battery recharge is nearly completed, i.e.
the charging current becomes smaller and smaller, therefore, there should be no over-
recharging problem. That means the charging progress can last very long. The charger can be
connected to the handset all the time when an around-the-clock measurement is required.
When fully recharged, the terminal voltage reaches around 4.25V. The terminal voltage is
displayed on window M07. When the battery is nearly consumed, the battery voltage drops to
below 3V. The user can obtain an approximate battery working time from the battery voltage.
A software battery working time estimator is integrated in this instrument based on the
terminal voltage. Please note that the estimator may have relatively bigger errors in the
estimated working time, especially when the voltage is in the range of around 3.70 to -3.90
volt.
§2.2 Power On
Press the
key to switch on the instrument and press the
to turn off the power.
Once the flow meter is switched on, it will run a self diagnostic program, checking first the
hardware and then the software integrity. If there is any abnormality, corresponding error
messages will display.
Generally, there should be no display of error messages, and the flow meter will go to the
most commonly used Menu Window Number 01 (short for M01) to display the Velocity, Flow
Rate, Positive Totalizer, Signal Strength and Signal Quality, based on the pipe parameters
configured last time by the user or by the initial program.
The flow measurement program always operates in the background of the user interface. This
means the flow measurement will keep on running regardless of any user menu window
browsing or viewing. Only when the user enters new pipe parameters will the flow meter
change measurement to the new parameter changes.
When new pipe parameters have been entered or when the power has been just switched on,
the flow meter will enter an adjusting mode to make the signals magnified with proper
ON
OFF
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

8
0
▲/
+
ON
OFF
CHARG E
7
8
9
MEN
U
4
5
6
12 3
0
EN T
▼/
◄
▲/
+
▼/
-
▲/
+
▲/
+
amplification. By this step, the flow meter is going to find the best threshold of receiving
signal. The user will see the progress by the number 1, 2, or 3, which are indicated on the right
lower corner of the LCD display.
When the transducers have been adjusted on the pipe by the user, the flow meter will re-adjust
the signal automatically.
Any user-entered configuration value will be retained into the NVRAM of the flow meter,
until it is modified by the user.
§2.3 Keypad
The keypad for the operation of the flow meter has 16+2 keys, as shown by the right dia
Keys ~
and
are keys to enter numbers
Key is the going UP key, when the user
wants to go to the upper menu window. It also
works as + key when entering numbers
Key is the going DOWN key, when the user
wants to go down-sided menu window. It also
works as the ‘–‘ key when entering numbers.
Key is backspace key, when the user wants
go left or wants backspace the left character that
is located to the left of thecursor.
Key ENT is the ENTER key for any inputting or
selections.
Key MENU is the key for the direct menu
window jump over. Whenever the user wants to
proceed to a certain menu window, the user can
press this key followed by 2-digit numbers.
The
The
The
key is shortened as the ‘M’ key afterward when referring to the menu windows.
key is for the power on.
key is for the power off.
§2.4 Menu Windows
The user interface of this flow meter comprises about 100 different menu windows that are
numbered by M00, M01, M02 … M99.
There are 2 methods to enter certain menu window:
(1) Direct going/entering. The user can press the MENU key followed by two-digit number
keys. For example, the menu window M11 is for the entering of pipe outer diameter. The
display will go to the M11 menu window after the user presses MENU 1 1 .
(2) Pressing
and
keys. Each time of the
key pressing will proceed to the
lower-numbered menu window. For example, if the current window is on M12, the display
will go to the number M11 window after pressing the key.
9
.
MENU
ON
OFF
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

9
ENT
▲/+
▲/
+
▼/
-
There are three different types of menu windows:
(1) Menu windows for number entering, like M11 for the entering of pipe outer diameter.
(2) Menu windows for option selection/selecting options, like M14 for the selection of pipe
materials.
(3) Displaying windows only, like M00 to display Velocity, Flow Rate etc.
For number entering windows, the user can directly press the starting digit key when the user
is going to modify the value. For example, when the current window is on M11, and the user
is going to enter 219.2345 as the pipe outer diameter, the user can get the numbers entered by
pressing the following serial keys: 2 1 9 . 2 3 4 5 ENT.
For the option selection windows, the user should first press the key to a selection
modification mode and then select the relevant options by pressing the
and
keys or
the digit keys to select the option with a number antecedent to the option. In the end, the ENT
key must be pressed to make the selection. For example, with menu window M14 for the
selection of pipe material selection, (the MENU 1 4 should be pressed first to enter
this menu window if the current menu window is on a different window. The pipe material is
stainless steel which has a number “1” antecedent to “stainless steel” on the display, the user
should first press the ENT key to enter into a selection modification mode, then either make
the selection by pressing the
and
keys to make the cursor on the line that displays
“1. Stainless Steel”, or make the selection by pressing the 1 key directly.
Generally, the ENT key must be pressed to enter a modification mode. If the “Locked M47
Open’ message is indicated on the lowest line of the LCD display, it means the
modification operations is locked out. In such cases, the user should go to M47 to have the
instrument unlocked first before any further modification can be made.
§2.5 Menu Windows Arrangement
M00~M09 windows for the display of the flow rate, velocity, date time, totalizers, battery
voltage and estimated working hours for the battery.
M10~M29 windows for entering the pipe parameter.
M30~M38 windows for flow rate unit selections and totalizer unit selections.
M40~M49 windows for response time, zeroing, calibration and modification password setup.
M50~M53 windows for the built-in logger
M60-M78 windows for time-keeper initialization, version and ESN information viewing and
alarms.
M82 window for viewing datetotalizer.
M90~M94 are diagnostic windows for a more accurate measurement.
M97~M99 are not windows but commands for the outputting of display copying and pipe
parameter setups.
M+0~M+8 are windows for some additional functions, including a scientific calculator,
viewer on records such as total working hours, turn-on and turn-off times, dates
and times when the flow meter has been turned on or turned off.
Other menu windows such as M88 have no functions, or functions were cancelled because
they are not applied to this version of the software.
▼/
-
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

10
ENT
▼/
▲/+
ENT
▼/
▼/
▼/
▲/+
▼/
▲/+
▼/
ENT
The major reason why the menu windows are arranged in this way is that the software
programmer hopes that the menu window arrangement for this version has the most/high
compatibility with the previous versions of the flow meter software. This will make it easier
for the former version users with this flow meter series.
§2.6 Steps to Configure the Parameters
The following parameters need to be configured for a proper measurement:
(1) Pipe outer diameter
(2) Pipe wall thickness
(3) Pipe materials (for non-standard pipe materials*, the sound speed for the material must
be configured too)
*Standard pipe materials and standard liquids refer to those with the sound parameters
that have already been programmed into software of the flow meter, therefore there is
no need to configure them
(4) Liner material and its sound speed and thickness, if there is any liner.
(5) Liquid type (for non-standard liquids, the sound speed of the liquid is also needed)
(6) Transducer type adapted to the flow meter. Generally the Standard M1 or the Frame M-
sized transducers will be the selectedoption.
(7) Transducer mounting methods (the V-method or Z-method is the common option)
(8) Check up the Space displayed on M25 and install the transducers accordingly.
For standard pipe materials and standard liquids, the following detailed step-by-step setup is
recommended.
(1) Press keys MENU 1 1 to enter M11 window to input the digits for the pipe outer
diameter, and then press ENT key.
(2) Press key ▼/- to enter M12 window to input the digits for the pipe outer diameter and
then press
(3) Press key
key.
to enter M14 window, and press ENT key to enter the option
selection mode. Use keys
material, and then press
and
key.
to scroll up and down to the intended pipe
(4) Press key to enter M16 window, press ENT key to enter the option selection
mode, use keys
and
to scroll up and down to the liner material, and then
press ENT key. Select “No Liner”, if there is no liner.
(5) Press key to enter M20 window, press ENT key to enter the option selection
mode, use keys ▲/+ and
press ENT key.
to scroll up and down to the proper liquid, and then
(6) Press key to enter M23 window, press ENT key to enter the option selection
mode, use keys
then press ENT
and
key.
to scroll up and down to the proper transducer type, and
(7) Press key to enter M24 window, press ENT key to enter the option selection
mode, use keys
and
to scroll up and down to the proper transducer mounting
method, and then press key.
(8) Press key
press
to enter M24 window to install the transducers on the pipe, and then
ey to go to M01 for the results.
▼/
▲/
+
▼/
-
▼/
-
▼/
▼/
ENT
k
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

11
The first-time users may need some time to get familiar with the operation. However, the user
friendly interface of the instrument makes the operation quite easy and simple. Before long,
the user will configure the instrument with very little key pressing, since the interface allows
the user to go to the desired operation directly without any extra steps.
The following tips will facilitate the operation of this instrument.
(1) When the window display is between M00 to M09, press a number key x , the user will
go directly to the M0x window. For example, if the current window displays M01, press 7
and the user will go to M07.
(2) When the window display is under M00 to M09, press the ENT key and the user will go to
M90; press ENT key to return. Press the dot key to go toM11
(3) When the window display is under M25, press ENT key to go toM01.
§2.7 Transducers Mounting Allocation
The first step in the installation process is the selection of an optimum location in order to
obtain a more accurate measurement. For this to be completed effectively, a basic knowledge
about the piping and its plumbing system would be advisable.
An optimum location would be defined as a straight pipe length full of liquid that is to be
measured. The piping can be in vertical or horizontal position. The following table shows
Piping Co nfigurati on
an d
Tr ansd ucer Position
U ps tre am
D im ens io n
D own st re am
D ime ns io n
L u p
x D ia m e te rs
L d n
x D ia m e te rs
10 D
5 D
L up
L dn
10 D
5 D
L up
L d n
10 D
5 D
L up
L dn
12 D
5 D
L up
L dn
20 D
5 D
L up
L dn
20 D
5 D
L up
L dn
30 D
5 D
L up
L dn
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

12
examples of optimum locations.
Principles to selection of an optimum location
(1) Install the transducers on a longer length of the straight pipe. The longer the better, and
make sure that the pipe is completely full ofliquid.
(2) Make sure that the temperature on the location does not exceed the range for the
transducers. Generally speaking, the closer to the room temperature, the better.
(3) Take the pipe fouling into consideration. Select a straight length of a relatively newer
pipe. If the condition is not satisfying, consider the fouling thickness as part of the liner
for a better result.
(4) Some pipes have a kind of plastic liner, and between the outer pipe and the liner there
may be a certain thickness difference that will prevent the ultrasonic waves from direct
traveling. Such conditions will make the measurement very difficult. Whenever possible,
try to avoid this kind of pipes. If impossible, try our plug-in transducers that are installed
permanently on the pipe by drilling holes on the pipe while liquid is running inside.
§2.8 Transducers Installation
The transducers used by the ultrasonic flow meter are made of piezoelectric crystals both for
transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals through the wall of liquid piping system. The
measurement is realized by measuring the traveling time difference of the ultrasonic signals.
Since the difference is very small, the spacing and the alignment of the transducers are critical
factors to the accuracy of the measurement and the performance of the system. Meticulous
care should be taken for the installation of the transducers.
Steps to the installation of the transducers
(1) Locate an optimum position where the straight pipe length is sufficient, and where pipes
are in a favorable condition, e.g., newer pipes with no rust and ease of operation.
(2) Clean any dust and rust. For a better result, polishing the pipe with a sander is strongly
recommended.
(3) Apply adequate coupler to the spot where the transducers are to be installed and leave
no gap between the pipe surface and thetransducers.
Extra care should be taken to avoid any sand or dust particles left between the pipe outer
surface and the transducers.
To avoid gas bubbles inside the upper part of the pipe, the transducers should be installed
horizontally by the side of the pipe.
§2.8.1 Transducers Spacing
The spacing value shown on menu window M25 refers to the distance of inner spacing
between the two transducers. The actual transducers spacing should be as close as possible to
the spacing value.
§2.8.2 V-method Installation
V-method installation is the moswidely used mode for daily measurement with pipe inner
diameters ranging from 20 millimeter to 300 millimeter. It is also called reflective mode or
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping

S e n s o r s S p a c i n g
method.
T O P V I E W O F P I P E
§2.8.3
Z-method Installation
Z-method is commonly used when the pipe diameter is between 300 millimeters and 500
millimeters.
T O P V I E W O F P I P E
§2.8.4 W-method Installation
W-method is usually used on plastic pipes with a diameter from 10 millimeters to 100
millimeters
TOPVIEWOFPIPE
S e n s o r s S p a c i n g
Sensors Spacing
www.ato.com [email protected] 18005851519 Global Shipping
13

14
§2.8.5 N-method Installation
Rarely used method.
§2.9 Installation Checkup
Through the checkup of the installation, one can: check the receiving signal strength, the
signal quality Q value, the traveling time difference of the signals, the estimated liquid speed,
the measured traveling time of the signals and the calculated traveling time ratio. Therefore,
optimum measurement result and longer running time of the instrument can be achieved.
§2.9.1 Signal Strength
Signal strength indicates the amplitude of receiving ultrasonic signals by a 3-digit number.
[000] means there is no signal detected, and [999] refers to the maximum signal strength that
can be received.
Although the instrument works well if the signal strength ranges from 500 to 999, stronger
signal strength should be pursued, because a stronger signal means a better result. The
following methods are recommended to obtain stronger signals:
(1) Relocate a more favorable location, if the current location is not good enough for a stable
and reliable flow reading, or if the signal strength is lower than700.
(2) Try to polish the outer surface of the pipe, and apply more coupler to increase the signal
strength.
(3) Adjust the transducers both vertically and horizontally while checking the varying signal
strength, stop at the highest position, and then check the transducers spacing to make sure
the transducers spacing is the same as what the M25shows.
§2.9.2 Signal Quality
Signal quality is indicated as the Q value in the instrument. A higher Q value would mean a
higher Signal and Noise Ratio (short for SNR), and accordingly a higher degree of accuracy
would be achieved. Under normal pipe condition, the Q value is in the range 600-900, the
higher the better.
Causes for a lower Q value could be:
(1) Interference of other instruments and devices such as a powerful transverter working
nearby. Try to relocate the flow meter to a new place where the interference can be
reduced.
(2) Bad sonic coupling for the transducers with the pipe. Try to apply more coupler or clean
the surface, etc.
(3) Pipes are difficult to be measured. Relocation isrecommended.
§2.9.3 Total Transit Time and Delta Time
The numbers displayed on menu window M93 are called total transit time and delta time
www.ato.com 18005851519 Global Shipping
[email protected]

15
respectively. They are the primitive data for the instrument to calculate the flow rate inside the
pipe. So the flow rate indication will vary accordingly with the total time and delta time.
The total transit time should remain stable or vary little.
If the delta time fluctuates higher than 20%, it means there are certain kinds of problems with
the transducer installation.
§2.9.4 Time Ratio between the Measured Total Transit Time and the
Calculated Time
This ratio would be used to check the transducer installation. If the pipe parameters are
entered correctly and the transducers are installed properly, the value for this ratio should be
in the range of 100±3. If this range is exceeded, the user should check:
(1) If the pipe parameters are correctly entered.
(2) If the actual spacing of the transducers is right and the same as what the window M25
shows.
(3) If the transducers are installed properly in the right directions.
(4) If the mounting location is good and if the pipe has changed shape or if there is too
much fouling inside the pipes
(5) Other poor conditions.
www.ato.com 18005851519 Global Shipping
[email protected]

16
3. How To
§3.1 How to judge if the instrument works properly
When ‘R’ is displayed in the lowest right corner of LCD display, the instrument is working
properly, generally speaking.
If an ‘H’ flashes on that place, there could be poor signal received. Please refer to the chapters
on diagnosis.
If an ‘I’ is displayed, it means that there is no signal detected.
If a ‘J’ is displayed, it means that the hardware of this instrument could be out of order. Refer
to the chapter on diagnosis.
§3.2 How to judge the liquid flowing direction
(1) Make sure that the instrument works properly
(2) Check the flow rate for the indication. If the displayed value is POSITIVE, the direction
of the flow will be from the RED transducers to the BLUE transducers; if the displayed
value is NEGATIVE, the direction will be from the BLUE transducers to the RED
transducers;
§3.3 How to change between units systems
Use menu window M30 for the selection of unit system in English or Metric system.
§3.4 How to select a required flow rate unit
Use menu window M31 to select the flow unit first and then the timing unit.
§3.5 How to use the totalizer multiplier
Use window M33 to select a proper totalizer. Make sure that the totalizer pulse is
appropriately speeded. It should not be too fast and neither too slow. A speed of producing a
pulse in several seconds or minutes is preferable.
If the totalizer multiplier is too small, there can be a loss of accumulation pulse because the
output device can output only one pulse in a measurement period (500milliseconds)
If the totalizer multiplier is too large, the output pulse will be too fewer for the devices that are
connected with the instrument for a quicker response.
§3.6 How to open or shut the totalizers
Use M34, M35 and M36 to turn on or turn off the POS, NEG, or NET totalizer respectively.
§3.7 How to reset the totalizers
Use M37 to reset the proper totalizer.
www.ato.com 18005851519 Global Shipping
[email protected]