Campbell PC400 User manual

PC400 User’s Manual
Version 4.1
Revision: 1/11
Copyright © 1999-2011
Campbell Scientific, Inc.

License for Use
This software is protected by United States copyright law and international
copyright treaty provisions. The installation and use of this software constitutes
an agreement to abide by the provisions of this license agreement.
Campbell Scientific grants you a non-exclusive license to use this software in
accordance with the following:
(1) The purchase of this software allows you to install and use the software on
one computer only.
(2) This software cannot be loaded on a network server for the purposes of
distribution or for access to the software by multiple operators. If the
software can be used from any computer other than the computer on which
it is installed, you must license a copy of the software for each additional
computer from which the software may be accessed.
(3) If this copy of the software is an upgrade from a previous version, you
must possess a valid license for the earlier version of software. You may
continue to use the earlier copy of software only if the upgrade copy and
earlier version are installed and used on the same computer. The earlier
version of software may not be installed and used on a separate computer
or transferred to another party.
(4) This software package is licensed as a single product. Its component parts
may not be separated for use on more than one computer.
(5) You may make one (1) backup copy of this software onto media similar to
the original distribution, to protect your investment in the software in case
of damage or loss. This backup copy can be used only to replace an
unusable copy of the original installation media.
This software may not be sold, included or redistributed in any other software,
or altered in any way without prior written permission from Campbell
Scientific. All copyright notices and labeling must be left intact.

Limited Warranty
The following warranties are in effect for ninety (90) days from the date of
shipment of the original purchase. These warranties are not extended by the
installation of upgrades or patches offered free of charge.
Campbell Scientific warrants that the installation media on which the software
is recorded and the documentation provided with it are free from physical
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The warranty does not
cover any installation media that has been damaged, lost, or abused. You are
urged to make a backup copy (as set forth above) to protect your investment.
Damaged or lost media is the sole responsibility of the licensee and will not be
replaced by Campbell Scientific.
Campbell Scientific warrants that the software itself will perform substantially
in accordance with the specifications set forth in the instruction manual when
properly installed and used in a manner consistent with the published
recommendations, including recommended system requirements. Campbell
Scientific does not warrant that the software will meet licensee’s requirements
for use, or that the software or documentation are error free, or that the
operation of the software will be uninterrupted.
Campbell Scientific will either replace or correct any software that does not
perform substantially according to the specifications set forth in the instruction
manual with a corrected copy of the software or corrective code. In the case of
significant error in the installation media or documentation, Campbell
Scientific will correct errors without charge by providing new media, addenda,
or substitute pages. If Campbell Scientific is unable to replace defective media
or documentation, or if it is unable to provide corrected software or corrected
documentation within a reasonable time, it will either replace the software with
a functionally similar program or refund the purchase price paid for the
software.
All warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are
disclaimed and excluded. Campbell Scientific shall not in any case be liable for
special, incidental, consequential, indirect, or other similar damages even if
Campbell Scientific has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Campbell Scientific is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of lost
profits or revenue, loss of use of the software, loss of data, cost of re-creating
lost data, the cost of any substitute program, telecommunication access costs,
claims by any party other than licensee, or for other similar costs.
This warranty does not cover any software that has been altered or changed in
any way by anyone other than Campbell Scientific. Campbell Scientific is not
responsible for problems caused by computer hardware, computer operating
systems, or the use of Campbell Scientific’s software with non-Campbell
Scientific software.
Licensee’s sole and exclusive remedy is set forth in this limited warranty.
Campbell Scientific’s aggregate liability arising from or relating to this
agreement or the software or documentation (regardless of the form of action;
e.g., contract, tort, computer malpractice, fraud and/or otherwise) is limited to
the purchase price paid by the licensee.

PC400 Table of Contents
PDF viewers note: These page numbers refer to the printed version of this document. Use
the Adobe Acrobat® bookmarks tab for links to specific sections.
1. Introduction...............................................................1-1
1.1 PC400 Overview................................................................................... 1-1
1.1.1 Main Screen ................................................................................ 1-1
1.1.2 Clock/Program and the EZSetup Wizard.................................... 1-2
1.1.3 Monitor Data............................................................................... 1-2
1.1.4 Collect Data ................................................................................ 1-2
1.1.5 View............................................................................................ 1-2
1.1.6 Split............................................................................................. 1-3
1.1.7 CardConvert................................................................................ 1-3
1.1.8 Short Cut..................................................................................... 1-3
1.1.9 CRBasic Editor ........................................................................... 1-3
1.1.10 Edlog......................................................................................... 1-3
1.2 What's New in Version 4? .................................................................... 1-4
1.3 Getting Help for PC400 Applications................................................... 1-4
1.4 Windows Conventions.......................................................................... 1-4
2. System Requirements ..............................................2-1
2.1 Hardware and Software ........................................................................ 2-1
3. Installation, Operation and Backup Procedures....3-1
3.1 CD-ROM Installation ........................................................................... 3-1
3.2 PC400 Operations and Backup Procedures .......................................... 3-1
3.2.1 PC400 Directory Structure and File Descriptions....................... 3-1
3.2.1.1 Program Directory............................................................. 3-1
3.2.1.2 Working Directories.......................................................... 3-2
3.2.2 Backing up the Network Map and Data Files ............................. 3-3
3.2.2.1 Performing a Backup......................................................... 3-3
3.2.2.2 Restoring the Network from a Backup File....................... 3-3
3.2.3 Loss of Computer Power ............................................................ 3-3
3.2.4 Program Crashes ......................................................................... 3-4
4. The PC400 Main Screen ...........................................4-1
4.1 Overview .............................................................................................. 4-1
4.2 Clock/Program Tab and EZSetup Wizard ............................................ 4-2
4.2.1 EZSetup Wizard.......................................................................... 4-2
4.2.2 Clock/Program Tab ..................................................................... 4-4
4.3 Monitor Data Tab ................................................................................. 4-4
4.4 Collect Data Tab................................................................................... 4-8
4.5 Pull-down Menus.................................................................................. 4-9
4.5.1 View Menu ................................................................................. 4-9
4.5.2 Datalogger Menu ...................................................................... 4-10
4.5.2.1 Connect/Disconnect ........................................................ 4-10
4.5.2.2 Update Table Definitions ................................................ 4-10
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4.5.2.3 Station Status ................................................................... 4-10
4.5.2.4 File Control for CR5000, CR800, CR1000, CR3000,
and CR9000 Dataloggers.............................................. 4-12
4.5.2.5 Terminal Emulator........................................................... 4-17
4.5.3 Network Menu ..........................................................................4-18
4.5.3.1 Add/Delete/Edit/Rename Datalogger .............................. 4-18
4.5.3.2 Backup/Restore Network................................................. 4-18
4.5.3.3 Computer’s Global PakBus Address ............................... 4-18
4.5.4 Tools Menu ............................................................................... 4-19
4.5.4.1 Stand-alone Applications................................................. 4-19
4.5.4.2 Options ............................................................................ 4-19
4.5.4.3 LogTool ........................................................................... 4-20
4.5.4.4 PakBus Graph.................................................................. 4-21
5. Split ............................................................................ 5-1
5.1 Functional Overview............................................................................. 5-1
5.2 Getting Started ...................................................................................... 5-2
5.3 Split Parameter File Entries .................................................................. 5-8
5.3.1 Input Files.................................................................................... 5-8
5.3.1.1 File Info ........................................................................... 5-10
5.3.1.2 File Offset/Options .......................................................... 5-10
5.3.1.3 Start Condition................................................................. 5-14
5.3.1.4 Stop Condition................................................................. 5-17
5.3.1.5 Copy ................................................................................ 5-21
5.3.1.6 Select ............................................................................... 5-22
5.3.1.7 Ranges ............................................................................. 5-22
5.3.1.8 Variables.......................................................................... 5-23
5.3.1.9 Numerical Limitations ..................................................... 5-24
5.3.1.10 Mathematical Functions, Details, and Examples........... 5-24
5.3.1.11 Time Series Functions, Details, and Examples.............. 5-26
5.3.1.12 Special Functions, Details, and Examples..................... 5-31
5.3.1.13 Split Functions Example................................................ 5-35
5.3.1.14 Summary of Select Line Syntax Rules .......................... 5-38
5.3.1.15 Time Synchronization.................................................... 5-39
5.3.2 Output Files............................................................................... 5-42
5.3.2.1 Description of Output Option Commands....................... 5-43
5.3.2.2 Report Headings .............................................................. 5-48
5.3.2.3 Column Headings ............................................................ 5-48
5.4 Help Option......................................................................................... 5-48
5.5 Editing Commands.............................................................................. 5-49
5.6 Running Split From a Command Line................................................ 5-49
5.6.1 Splitr Command Line Switches................................................. 5-49
5.6.2 Using Splitr.exe in Batch Files.................................................. 5-50
5.6.3 Processing Alternate Files......................................................... 5-50
5.6.4 Processing Multiple Parameter Files with One Command Line..... 5-54
5.7 Log Files ............................................................................................. 5-54
6. View........................................................................... 6-1
6.1 Overview............................................................................................... 6-1
6.2 The Toolbar........................................................................................... 6-1
6.3 Opening a File....................................................................................... 6-2
6.3.1 Opening a Data File .................................................................... 6-3
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6.3.2 Opening Other Types of Files..................................................... 6-3
6.3.3 Opening a File in Hexadecimal Format ...................................... 6-3
6.4 Data View ............................................................................................. 6-4
6.4.1 Column Size................................................................................ 6-5
6.4.2 Header Information..................................................................... 6-5
6.4.3 Locking Timestamp Column....................................................... 6-5
6.4.4 File Information .......................................................................... 6-5
6.4.5 Background Color....................................................................... 6-5
6.4.6 Font ............................................................................................. 6-5
6.4.7 Window Arrangement................................................................. 6-5
6.5 Line Graph............................................................................................ 6-6
6.5.1 Selecting Data to be Graphed ..................................................... 6-7
6.5.2 Graph Width ............................................................................... 6-7
6.5.3 Options........................................................................................ 6-7
6.5.4 Scrolling...................................................................................... 6-7
6.5.5 Zoom Feature .............................................................................. 6-8
6.5.6 Graph Cursor............................................................................... 6-8
6.5.7 Keeping Graph on Top ............................................................... 6-9
6.5.8 Line Graph Toolbar .................................................................... 6-9
6.6 Right-click-Menus .............................................................................. 6-10
6.6.1 Data View ................................................................................. 6-10
6.6.2 Graphs....................................................................................... 6-12
6.6.3 Traces........................................................................................ 6-12
6.7 Printing Options.................................................................................. 6-12
6.7.1 Print Setup................................................................................. 6-12
6.7.2 Printing Text ............................................................................. 6-12
6.7.3 Printing Graphs ......................................................................... 6-13
6.8 View Online Help............................................................................... 6-13
6.9 Assigning Data Files to View ............................................................. 6-13
7. Short Cut Program Generator .................................7-1
7.1 Overview .............................................................................................. 7-1
7.2 Creating a Program Using Short Cut .................................................... 7-2
7.2.1 Step 1 – Create a New File or Open Existing File ...................... 7-2
7.2.2 Step 2 – Choose Sensors to Monitor........................................... 7-5
7.2.3 Step 3 – Setup Output Tables.................................................... 7-10
7.2.4 Step 4 – Generate the Program in the Format Required
by the Datalogger.................................................................... 7-13
7.3 Short Cut Settings............................................................................... 7-14
7.3.1 Scan Interval ............................................................................. 7-14
7.3.2 Program Security ...................................................................... 7-14
7.3.3 Datalogger ID ........................................................................... 7-15
7.3.4 Power-up Settings ..................................................................... 7-15
7.3.5 Select CR200 Compiler ............................................................ 7-15
7.3.6 CR9000X Configuration........................................................... 7-16
7.3.7 Sensor Support.......................................................................... 7-16
7.3.8 AC Noise Rejection .................................................................. 7-16
7.3.9 Font ........................................................................................... 7-16
7.3.10 Set Working Directory............................................................ 7-16
7.3.11 Enable Creation of Custom Sensor Files ................................ 7-16
7.4 Editing Programs Created by Short Cut ............................................. 7-17
7.5 New Sensor Files ................................................................................ 7-17
7.6 Custom Sensor Files ........................................................................... 7-17
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8. Datalogger Program Creation with Edlog.............. 8-1
8.1 Overview............................................................................................... 8-1
8.1.1 Creating a New Edlog Program .................................................. 8-2
8.1.1.1 Program Structure.............................................................. 8-4
8.1.1.2 Edlog File Types................................................................ 8-5
8.1.1.3 Inserting Instructions into the Program ............................. 8-6
8.1.1.4 Entering Parameters for the Instructions ........................... 8-6
8.1.1.5 Program Comments ........................................................... 8-7
8.1.1.6 Expressions........................................................................ 8-7
8.1.2 Editing an Existing Program............................................... 8-13
8.1.2.1 Editing Comments, Instructions, and Expressions .......... 8-14
8.1.2.2 Cut, Copy, Paste, and Clipboard Options........................ 8-14
8.1.3 Library Files .............................................................................. 8-14
8.1.4 Documenting a DLD File.......................................................... 8-14
8.1.5 Display Options......................................................................... 8-15
8.1.5.1 Graphical Toolbar............................................................ 8-15
8.1.5.2 Renumbering the Instructions.......................................... 8-16
8.1.5.3 Compress VIEW.............................................................. 8-16
8.1.5.4 Indention.......................................................................... 8-16
8.2 Input Locations ................................................................................... 8-16
8.2.1 Entering Input Locations........................................................... 8-17
8.2.2 Repetitions................................................................................. 8-17
8.2.3 Input Location Editor ................................................................ 8-18
8.2.4 Input Location Anomalies......................................................... 8-20
8.3 Final Storage Labels ........................................................................... 8-21
8.4 Datalogger Settings Stored in the DLD File ....................................... 8-22
8.4.1 Program Security....................................................................... 8-23
8.4.1.1 Setting Passwords in the DLD......................................... 8-23
8.4.1.2 Disabling Passwords........................................................ 8-23
8.4.2 Final Storage Area 2.................................................................. 8-23
8.4.3 DLD File Labels........................................................................ 8-23
8.4.3.1 Mixed-array Dataloggers ................................................. 8-23
8.4.3.2 Table-Based Dataloggers................................................. 8-24
8.4.4 Power Up Settings/Compile Settings ........................................ 8-24
8.4.5 Datalogger Serial Port Settings ................................................. 8-25
8.4.6 PakBus Settings......................................................................... 8-25
8.4.6.1 Network ........................................................................... 8-25
8.4.6.2 Beacon Intervals .............................................................. 8-26
8.4.6.3 Neighbor Filter ................................................................ 8-26
8.4.6.4 Allocate General Purpose File Memory .......................... 8-26
9. Datalogger Program Creation with CRBasic Editor. 9-1
9.1 Overview............................................................................................... 9-1
9.2 Inserting Instructions ............................................................................ 9-2
9.2.1 Parameter Dialog Box ................................................................. 9-2
9.2.2 Right-Click Functionality............................................................ 9-4
9.3 Toolbar.................................................................................................. 9-5
9.3.1 Compile ....................................................................................... 9-7
9.3.2 Compile, Save, and Send............................................................. 9-8
9.3.3 Templates .................................................................................. 9-11
9.3.4 Program Navigation using BookMarks and GoTo.................... 9-12
9.3.5 CRBasic Editor File Menu ........................................................ 9-12
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9.3.6 CRBasic Editor Edit Menu ....................................................... 9-12
9.3.6.1 Other Options .................................................................. 9-12
9.3.7 CRBasic Editor View Menu ..................................................... 9-13
9.3.7.1 Editor Preferences ........................................................... 9-13
9.3.7.2 Instruction Panel Preferences .......................................... 9-15
9.3.7.3 Other Options .................................................................. 9-15
9.3.8 CRBasic Editor Tools Menu..................................................... 9-16
9.3.8.1 Edit Instruction Categories.............................................. 9-16
9.3.8.2 Other Options .................................................................. 9-17
9.3.9 Available Help Information ...................................................... 9-17
9.4 CRBasic Programming ....................................................................... 9-18
9.4.1 Programming Sequence ............................................................ 9-18
9.4.2 Program Declarations................................................................ 9-19
9.4.3 Mathematical Expressions ........................................................ 9-19
9.4.4 Measurement and Output Processing Instructions.................... 9-20
9.4.5 Line Continuation ..................................................................... 9-21
9.4.6 Inserting Comments Into Program............................................ 9-21
9.4.7 Example Program...................................................................... 9-22
9.4.8 Data Tables ............................................................................... 9-22
9.4.9 The Scan -- Measurement Timing and Processing ................... 9-24
9.4.10 Numerical Entries ................................................................... 9-25
9.4.10 Logical Expression Evaluation ............................................... 9-25
9.4.10.1 What is True? ................................................................ 9-25
9.4.10.2 Expression Evaluation................................................... 9-26
9.4.10.3 Numeric Results of Expression Evaluation................... 9-26
9.4.11 Flags........................................................................................ 9-27
9.4.12 Parameter Types...................................................................... 9-27
9.4.12.1 Expressions in Parameters............................................. 9-27
9.4.12.2 Arrays of Multipliers and Offsets for Sensor
Calibration.................................................................... 9-28
9.4.13 Program Access to Data Tables .............................................. 9-28
10. Utilities...................................................................10-1
10.1 CardConvert...................................................................................... 10-1
10.1.1 Input/Output File Settings....................................................... 10-1
10.1.2 Destination File Options ......................................................... 10-2
10.1.2.1 File Format .................................................................... 10-2
10.1.2.2 File Processing .............................................................. 10-3
10.1.2.3 File Naming................................................................... 10-4
10.1.2.4 TOA5/TOB1 Format..................................................... 10-4
10.1.3 Converting the File ................................................................. 10-5
10.1.3.1 Repairing/Converting Corrupted Files .......................... 10-5
10.1.4 Viewing a Converted File ....................................................... 10-6
10.1.5 Running CardConvert from a Command Line........................ 10-6
10.2 Transformer Utility........................................................................... 10-7
10.2.1 Transforming a File................................................................. 10-7
10.2.2 Controls................................................................................... 10-9
10.3 Device Configuration Utility ............................................................ 10-9
10.3.1 Overview................................................................................. 10-9
10.3.2 Main DevConfig Screen ....................................................... 10-10
10.3.3 Downloading an Operating System ...................................... 10-11
10.3.4 Terminal Tab......................................................................... 10-13
10.3.5 The Unknown Device Type.................................................. 10-14
10.3.6 Off-line Mode ....................................................................... 10-14
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vi
10.4 File Format Convert........................................................................ 10-15
10.4.1 Overview ............................................................................... 10-15
10.4.2 Options .................................................................................. 10-16
Appendices
A. Glossary of Terms................................................... A-1
B. Table-Based Dataloggers ....................................... B-1
B.1 Memory Allocation for Final Storage ................................................. B-1
B.1.1 Edlog TD Family Dataloggers................................................... B-1
B.1.2 CR800/CR1000/CR3000/CR5000/CR9000 Memory for
Programs and Data Storage .................................................. B-2
B.1.3 CR200 Series Dataloggers......................................................... B-3
B.2 Converting a Mixed-array Program to a TD or PB Table-Based
Program using Edlog....................................................................... B-3
B.2.1 Steps for Program Conversion................................................... B-4
B.2.2 Program Instruction Changes .................................................... B-4
B.3 Table Data Overview........................................................................... B-6
B.4 Default Tables ..................................................................................... B-7
C. Log Files and the LogTool Application .................C-1
C.1 Event Logging..................................................................................... C-1
C.1.1 Log Categories........................................................................... C-1
C.1.2 Log File Message Formats......................................................... C-2
C.1.2.1 General File Format Information ..................................... C-2
C.1.2.2 Transaction Log Format................................................... C-2
C.1.2.3 Communications Status Log Format.............................. C-15
C.1.2.4 Object State Log Format................................................ C-17
List of Tables
5-1. Comma Separated, Field Formatted, Printable ASCII, and
Table Oriented ASCII Input File Format Types............................... 5-9
5-2. Example of Event Driven Test Data Set............................................ 5-19
5-3. Processed Data File Using Option C ................................................. 5-20
5-4. Input File Entries to Process the First Data Point for each Test ........ 5-21
5-5. Effects of Out of Range Values for Given Output Options............... 5-23
5-6. Split Operators and Math Functions .................................................. 5-24
5-7. Time Series Functions ....................................................................... 5-26
5-8. Split SPECIAL FUNCTIONS ........................................................... 5-31
5-9. Definition of Blank or Bad Data for each Data File Format.............. 5-45
8.1-1. Operators and Functions................................................................... 8-9
8.1-2. Editor Keystrokes ........................................................................... 8-13
9-1. Formats for Output Data.................................................................... 9-24
9-2. Formats for Entering Numbers in CRBasic....................................... 9-25
9-3. Synonyms for True and False ............................................................ 9-26
9-4. Rules for Names ................................................................................ 9-27
B.4-1. Example of Status Table Entries..................................................... B-8
C.1-1. Transaction Log Messages.............................................................. C-3
C.1-2. Communications Status Log Messages......................................... C-16

Section 1. Introduction
PC400 is a software application used to set up, configure, and retrieve data
from Campbell Scientific dataloggers. This software application runs on
Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 platforms.
PC400 software supports programming, communication, and data collection
for the “CRBasic dataloggers”, including the CR200/205, CR800, CR1000,
CR3000, CR5000, and CR9000. PC400 also supports the “Edlog
dataloggers”, such as the CR500, CR510, CR10, CR10X, 21X, CR23X, and
CR7 dataloggers, with mixed-array, table-data, and PakBus operating systems
where available for a particular datalogger. Communications technologies
supported include “direct connect” (or “RS-232” via local serial cable, short
haul modems, or other “transparent” links), telephone, TAPI, TCP/IP,
VHF/UHF radios, RF400-series spread spectrum radios, and multidrop
modems (MD9 and MD485).
PC400 is an ideal solution for users desiring easy-to-use reliable data
collection software over a single telecommunications medium, who do not rely
on scheduled data collection or graphical real-time displays.
1.1 PC400 Overview
1.1.1 Main Screen
The main screen for PC400 provides three tabs for communications functions
(Clock/Program, Monitor Data, and Collect Data), as well as buttons to
launch utilities for working with data files (View, Split, and CardConvert)
and for generating or editing datalogger programs (Short Cut, CRBasic, and
Edlog). There is also a button to launch the Device Configuration Utility (or
DevConfig). DevConfig is used to send new operating systems to dataloggers
and other devices, and to configure the settings in the dataloggers/devices.
These screens and utilities are also accessible from the PC400 menu, as are
other tools, such as a terminal emulator, PakBus Graph, and LogTool, a
program to view and store communication logs. Each application has its own
extensive help.
Two additional stand-alone utilities are installed with PC400 and can be
opened from the Windows Start menu, Programs | Campbell Scientific |
PC400 | Utilities. These utilities are Transformer and File Format Convert.
(CardConvert and Device Configuration Utility can also be opened from this
menu.)
Transformer is a utility to convert Edlog programs to CRBasic programs.
Conversions from CR10X to CR800 or CR1000, CR510 to CR800 or CR1000,
and CR23X to CR3000 are supported. File Format Convert is used to convert
data files from one format to another.
1-1

Section 1. Introduction
1.1.2 Clock/Program and the EZSetup Wizard
Setting up the PC400 datalogger network is a relatively simple process with
the EZSetup Wizard, which guides you through the steps necessary to add and
enter settings for dataloggers. Once a datalogger is added to the list, you can
choose the Edit button to change those settings, again with the EZSetup
Wizard. Progress through the wizard is shown on the left side of the screen,
with steps for choosing a datalogger, defining the communications path
between the computer and the datalogger, fine tuning settings for the
datalogger (e.g., baud rate or security code), testing communications, checking
or setting the clock, and finally sending a program or associating an already
running program file.
1.1.3 Monitor Data
Once you’ve added and connected to a datalogger, the Monitor Data tab
switches to a view that lets you monitor the latest values. These can either be
the input locations or variables being updated each execution of the datalogger
program or the latest data stored in the datalogger’s final storage memory.
For table-based (“TD”, “PB”, or CRBasic) dataloggers, this screen displays the
last record in final storage and updates it as new data is stored in the
datalogger. Note that this data is only for display purposes; it is not
automatically stored to a file on the PC. For mixed-array dataloggers, only the
last array that was actually collected to a file is displayed and this data is not
automatically updated; you must manually initiate another collection.
The Monitor Data tab also lets you edit input locations, public variables, ports,
and flags.
1.1.4 Collect Data
Once a program is storing data in the datalogger you can collect a copy of that
data to a file on the PC. The Collect Data tab shows a list of the final storage
areas or tables in the datalogger. You can either retrieve the uncollected data,
appending it to a file on the PC, or you can retrieve all of the data from the
datalogger, overwriting the file on the PC if it already exists. (Any file in that
directory with the same name will be moved to the Windows Recycle Bin.) A
browse button lets you choose a folder and file name for the data.
1.1.5 View
View is also launched from a button on PC400’s main screen. View lets you
examine data files collected to the PC, and displays data in a tabular format by
record or array. A graph can be displayed to show an unlimited number of
traces.
1-2

Section 1. Introduction
1.1.6 Split
A button on PC400’s main screen launches Split, a stand-alone application
used to post process data files on the PC and generate reports. It can be used to
separate mixed-array data files into individual files based on the array ID,
merge data from multiple stations into one file, perform calculations, and
change date/time formats. Split can create reports or new files for input to
other data analysis and display applications, including html formats.
1.1.7 CardConvert
CardConvert is a utility to retrieve binary data from Compact Flash cards
containing CR1000 or CR3000 data, and convert the data to an ASCII file.
1.1.8 Short Cut
Short Cut is a datalogger program “generator.” You only need to select the
datalogger type, sensors, and desired outputs, and then Short Cut creates the
program file to send to the datalogger. Users don’t need to learn about the
individual programming instructions. Short Cut includes support for
multiplexers and a limited number of other peripherals, and it provides a
wiring diagram that you can print to leave in the field with the datalogger.
Short Cut can also be an excellent way to learn about new programming
languages. Users familiar with programming for Edlog dataloggers can
generate similar programs for CRBasic dataloggers to begin learning about
programming in CRBasic, as the CRBasic programs created by Short Cut can
be loaded directly into the CRBasic Editor for inspection or editing.
1.1.9 CRBasic Editor
The CRBasic Editor is also a program editor, but for the CRBasic dataloggers,
including the CR200/205, CR800, CR1000, CR3000, CR5000, and CR9000.
Instructions are included for declarations, data tables, measurements/control,
processing/math, operators, output, and program control. Extensive assistance
and program examples are provided in the Help.
1.1.10 Edlog
Edlog is a program editor, a software tool to create and modify datalogger
programs at the instruction level. Edlog supports the CR500, CR510, CR10,
CR10X, 21X, CR23X, and CR7 dataloggers, for any of their operating
systems, including mixed-array, table-data, and PakBus where available for a
particular datalogger. Instructions are included for sensor measurement,
intermediate processing, program and peripheral control, and output
processing. The built-in precompiler provides error checking and warns of
potential problems in the program. Edlog also gives access to other datalogger
settings, such as PakBus addresses, power-up settings, etc., that can be sent in
the datalogger program instead of entered via a keyboard/display.
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Section 1. Introduction
1.2 What's New in Version 4?
Version 4.0 of PC400 includes a new data file viewer, View. View maintains
the ease of use of our previous data file viewer with enhanced capabilities,
including the ability to view an unlimited number of traces on a graph.
You also now have the ability to launch the Device Configuration Utility from
PC400's toolbar.
Starting in version 4.1 the CRBasic Editor has the capability to open a read-
only copy of any file. This gives you the ability to open multiple copies of a
program and examine multiple areas of a very large program at the same time.
You can also now continue an instruction onto multiple lines by placing the
line continuation indicator (a single space followed by an underscore “_”) at
the end of the each line that is to be continued. Also, bookmarks in a CRBasic
program are now persistent from session to session.
The Device Configuration Utility has a new off-line mode which allows you to
look at the settings for a certain device type without actually being connected
to a device.
The ability to lock the timestamp column on the left of the data file has been
added to View. This keeps the timestamp visible as you scroll through
columns of data.
Split has a new “Time Sync to First Record” option that can be used with the
time-sync function to avoid blank lines at the start of the output file. Also, a
range of time values rather than a single time can now be entered in a Split
Copy Condition.
CardConvert can now be run from a command line without user interaction.
An option to provide feedback on PC400 has been added to the PC400
Toolbar’s Help menu.
1.3 Getting Help for PC400 Applications
Detailed descriptions of each application and tool are included in later sections
of this manual. Each application also has its own built-in help system. Context
sensitive help for an application can usually be accessed by moving the focus
to (clicking on) a particular item and pressing the F1 key or by selecting Help
from the application's menu.
If you are unable to resolve your problem after reviewing the above noted
resources, contact your Campbell Scientific Representative.
1.4 Windows Conventions
With the introduction of Windows, Microsoft has been working to establish a
standard for the operation of graphical user interfaces. There are numerous
conventions and expectations about the way a software program looks and
behaves running under Microsoft Windows. Campbell Scientific has adopted
as many of these conventions in PC400 as reasonable.
1-4

Section 1. Introduction
This manual describes a collection of screens, dialogs and functions to work
with dataloggers. As with most Windows based software there is almost
always more than one way to access the function you want. We encourage you
to look around and experiment with different options to find which methods
work best for you.
To keep this manual as concise and readable as possible, we will not always
list all of the methods for getting to every function. Typically each function
will have two methods and some will have as many as four.
The most common methods for doing things are:
Menus – Text menus are displayed at the top of most windows. Menu items
are accessed either by a left mouse click, or using a hot key combination (e.g.,
Alt+F opens the File menu). When the menu is opened, you can click on an
item to select it, or use arrow keys to highlight it and press the Enter key, or
just type the underlined letter.
By convention, menu items that bring up dialog boxes or new windows will be
followed by an ellipsis (…). Other items execute functions directly or can be
switched on or off. Some menu items show a check mark if a function is
enabled and no check mark if disabled.
Items with Program Focus – On each screen one button, text area, or other
control is selected at a time or “has the focus.” Focus is usually indicated when
the item is surrounded by a dotted line or is bolded. Pressing the tab key can
move focus from item to item. Typing changes a selected text edit box.
Pressing the space bar toggles a selected check box. A selected button can also
be activated by pressing the Enter key.
Buttons – Buttons are an obvious way to access a function. They are normally
used for the functions that need to be called frequently or are very important.
Clicking a button executes that function or brings up another window. Button
functions can also be accessed from the keyboard using the tab key to move
among items on a screen and pressing the Enter key to execute the button
function.
Right Click Menus – Some areas have pop-up menus that bring up frequently
used tasks or provide shortcuts. Just right click on an area and if a menu
appears, left click the menu item you want.
Hot Keys or Keyboard Shortcuts – Many of the menus and buttons can be
accessed using Hot Keys. An underlined letter identifies the hot key for a
button or function. To get to a menu or execute a function on a button hold
down the Alt key and type the underlined letter in the menu name or the button
text. On Windows XP, the hot key letters may not appear until after you’ve
pressed the Alt key.
Pop-Up Hints – Hints are available for many of the on-screen controls. Let
the mouse pointer hover over a control, text box or other screen feature and the
hint will appear automatically and remain visible for a few seconds. These
hints will often explain the purpose of a control or a suggested action. For text
boxes where some of the text is hidden, the full text will appear in the hint.
1-5

Section 1. Introduction
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Section 2. System Requirements
2.1 Hardware and Software
PC400 is an integrated application of 32-bit programs designed to run on Intel-
based computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems.
Recommended platforms for running PC400 include Windows XP, Windows
Vista, or Windows 7 because they offer the most stable operating
environments.
PC400 also requires that TCP/IP service be installed on the PC.
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Section 2. System Requirements
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Section 3. Installation, Operation and
Backup Procedures
3.1 CD-ROM Installation
The following instructions assume that drive D: is a CD-ROM drive on the
computer from which the software is being installed. If the drive letter is
different, substitute the appropriate drive letter.
1. Put the installation CD in the CD-ROM drive. The install application
should come up automatically. Skip to step 3.
2. If the install does not start, then from the Windows system menu, select
Start | Run. Type “d:\setup.exe” in the Open field or use the Browse
button to access the CD-ROM drive and select the setup executable. This
activates the PC400 Installation Utility.
3. Follow the prompts on the screen to complete the installation. The
installation will require a CD key. You will find this code printed on the
back of the jewel case for the original installation CD.
A shortcut to launch PC400 is added to your computer’s Start menu under
Programs | Campbell Scientific | PC400. If the default directories are used,
PC400 executable files and help files are placed in the C:\Program
Files\CampbellSci\PC400 directory.
Working directories will also be created under C:\Campbellsci for PC400’s
configurations and data files, user programs, and settings for the accessory
applications and utilities.
3.2 PC400 Operations and Backup Procedures
This section describes some of the concepts and procedures recommended for
routine operation and security of the PC400 software. If software and
computer systems were perfect, this section would not be necessary. However,
since this software is required to run with predictable results in the real world
on real computers, the following guidelines and procedures will be helpful in
minimizing possible problems that may occur.
3.2.1 PC400 Directory Structure and File Descriptions
3.2.1.1 Program Directory
As described in the installation procedures, all of the files for program
execution are stored in the C:\Program Files\Campbellsci\PC400 directory.
This includes the executables, DLLs, and most of the application help files.
This directory does not need to be included in back up efforts. PC400 and its
applications rely on registry entries to run correctly; therefore, any restoration
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Section 3. Installation, Operation and Backup Procedures
of the program should be done by reinstalling the software from the original
CD.
3.2.1.2 Working Directories
In this version of PC400, each major application keeps its own working
directory. The working directory holds the user files created by the
application, as well as configuration and initialization (*.INI) files.
This scheme was implemented because we use the underlying tools and many
of the applications (the server itself, library files, datalogger program editors,
etc.) in a number of different products. By providing a common working
directory for each major application, we hope to make it easier to keep track of
files and information as you move from one product to another.
The following figure shows the typical working directories for PC400 if the
default options were selected during installation.
PC400
Default directory for data files.
PC400\SYS
PC400 working directory – these files are controlled by the
communications server and should not be disturbed by the user
except when backing up the system. Tampering with these directories
or files can cause unpleasant consequences.
DevConfig
Default directory for Device Configuration Utility saved settings files.
CRBasicEditor
Default directory for user’s CRBasic datalogger programs.
EdlogW
Default directory for user’s Edlog datalogger programs .
SCWin
Default directory for user’s datalogger programs created in the Short
Cut program generator.
SplitW
Default directory for user’s Split parameter files and resulting reports
and output files.
View
Default directory for View’s window settings.
Lib
Libraries of pre-compilers, templates and help files used by CRBasic
Editor, including the CR200/205 pre-compilers used by PC400’s
communications engine, and libraries of settings supported by devices
configured by the DevConfig application.
3-2