Metro DataVac M3 User manual

+33 (0) 450 39 08 49
Metro Fax +33 (0) 450 39 08 33
80 impasse des chapotines web www.metro-fr.com
ZAE Chez Merlin
F-74420 St-André de Boëge
France E-mail info@metro-fr.com
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USER’S MANUAL
Firmware 3.0

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1. TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.TABLE OF CONTENTS ___________________________________________ 2
2.FOREWORDS __________________________________________________ 4
3.INTRODUCTION ________________________________________________ 5
3.1.PRODUCT PRESENTATION ........................................................................ 5
3.2.VERSIONS .................................................................................................... 5
3.3.CHARACTERISTICS ..................................................................................... 6
3.3.1.MAIN TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS ............................................... 6
3.3.2.DIMENSION AND INSTALLATION ........................................................ 7
3.3.3.CONTENTS OF THE PACKAGING ........................................................ 8
3.3.4.OPTIONS ................................................................................................ 8
3.3.5.CONNECTORS .................................................................................... 13
3.3.5.1.VERSION FOR INDUCTIVE PROBES .............................................. 13
3.3.5.2.VERSION FOR INCREMENTAL PROBES AND ENCODERS .......... 14
3.3.6.RS232 COMMUNICATION PORT ........................................................ 15
3.3.7.MINI-USB CONNECTOR ...................................................................... 15
3.3.8.THE 24VDC CONNECTOR .................................................................. 16
3.3.9.THE USB STICK CONNECTOR ........................................................... 16
3.3.10.THE FOOTSWITCH CONNECTOR ................................................... 16
4.GRAPHICAL INTERFACE ________________________________________ 17
4.1.2 MAIN PARTS ............................................................................................ 17
4.2.GENERALITIES ........................................................................................... 19
4.3.CONFIGURATION WINDOWS .................................................................... 21
4.4.VIRTUAL KEYBOARD ................................................................................. 22
5.CONFIGURATION OF THE DEVICE AND THE MEASURE ______________ 23
5.1.DEFINITION ................................................................................................. 24
5.1.1.PART 1 ................................................................................................. 25
5.1.2.PART 2 ................................................................................................. 29
5.1.3.PART 3, CLASS ................................................................................... 30
5.1.4.PART 4, CONTROL LIMIT .................................................................... 32
5.2.DISPLAY ...................................................................................................... 33
5.3.SETUP ......................................................................................................... 35
5.3.1.GENERALITIES .................................................................................... 36
5.3.2.INDUCTIVE PROBE ............................................................................. 37
5.3.3.HEIDENHAIN PROBE (11µA OR VCC) ............................................... 37
5.3.4.TTL PROBE WITH HEINDEHAIN PINOUT .......................................... 38
5.3.5.M-BUS MODULES ............................................................................... 39
5.3.6.AIR GAGE MB-AG MODULE ............................................................... 44
5.4.CONFIGURATION ....................................................................................... 49
5.5.LOCKING ..................................................................................................... 52
5.6.MEASURE ................................................................................................... 54
6.MEASURING SCREEN __________________________________________ 55
6.1.LATERAL BUTTON FUNCTIONS ............................................................... 55
6.2.CHOICE OF THE NEEDLE INDICATOR STYLE ......................................... 58
6.3.TEMPORARY DYNAMIC MODE ................................................................. 59
6.4.DISPLAY MODE WITHOUT TOLERANCE .................................................. 60
7.USB COMMUNICATION _________________________________________ 61

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8.RS232 COMMUNICATION _______________________________________ 63
8.1.COMMANDS ................................................................................................ 63
8.1.1.GENERALITIES .................................................................................... 63
8.1.2.COMMAND LIST .................................................................................. 64
8.1.2.1.WINDOW PART ................................................................................ 64
8.1.2.2.WINDOW DISPLAY ........................................................................... 65
8.1.2.3.WINDOW CONFIGURATION ............................................................ 65
8.1.2.4.WINDOW « LOCK » .......................................................................... 66
8.1.2.5.MEASURING SCREEN ..................................................................... 66
9.DATA EXPORT ON USB KEYS ____________________________________ 67
9.1.STANDARD MODE : ................................................................................... 67
9.2.ADVANCED MODE : ................................................................................... 68
10.CONFIGURATION OF THE UNIT WITH QR CODES ___________________ 69
11.RTU MODBUS protocol __________________________________________ 70
12.OPTIONAL M-BUS MODULES ____________________________________ 73
12.1.MB-IO MODULE (SEE ALSO CHAP 5.3.5) .............................................. 73
12.2.MB-RL MODULE ....................................................................................... 76
12.3.MB-TP MODULE – FOR TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION .................. 79
13.FACTORY RESET ______________________________________________ 84
14.FIRMWARE UPDATE ___________________________________________ 85
15.EXEMPLES OF PROBE COMBINATIONS ___________________________ 87
15.1.SIMPLE MEASUREMENTS WITH ONE PROBE ...................................... 87
15.2.COMBINED MEASUREMENTS WITH TWO PROBES ............................. 87

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2. FOREWORDS
ONE YEAR LIMITED GUARANTEE
MANUFACTURER'S RESPONSIBILITY
SPARE PARTS AND LABOUR.
The manufacturer commits himself to pay for repair or replacement costs (labour
costs included) during a period of one year as from the date the guarantee came into
force. The spare parts can be new or renovated and are guaranteed until the end of
the initial guarantee period.
FIRST END-USER COVERAGE.
This guarantee applies only to the first end-user of the product and is not assignable
to any other subsequent purchaser or user.
RESTRICTIONS.
Any accessory or expansion item not included in the original factory packaging is not
guaranteed.
The present guarantee does not cover: installation or repair costs, damages resulting
from circumstances beyond the manufacturer's control like damages following acts of
God, misuse, or careless mistake from the user, damages during the transport or due
to a wrong installation, use or application, such as any material damage caused by
the use of non supplied products, components or accessories. It also does not cover
products modified without any written approval from the manufacturer, including
electrical or mechanical modification, removal of serial numbers or of the
manufacturer's trademarks or of any other identification.
THE SOLE RECOURSE UNDER THIS GUARANTEE SHALL BE THE REPAIR OR
THE REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE PARTS AS INDICATED ABOVE. UNDER
NO CIRCUMSTANCES THE MANUFACTURER CAN BE HELD LIABLE FOR
INDIRECT OR SPECIAL DAMAGES OR FOR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE
USE OF THE PRODUCT, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OF DATA, BUSINESS OR
PROFIT, AND WHETHER THESE DAMAGES CAN BE FORESEEN OR NOT AND
WHETER THEY ARE BASED ON A GUARANTEE VIOLATION OR NOT.
THE PRESENT GUARANTEE REPLACES ANY OTHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED
GUARANTEE INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY GUARANTEE OF
MARKETING OR ADEQUACY FOR A PARTICULAR USE; AND ALL THESE
GUARANTEES ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED AND CANCELLED.
WARNING
The information contained in this booklet can be changed without notice.
The manufacturer makes no warranty whatsoever with respect to the warranties of
commercial quality of this product or its suitability to a particular use.

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The manufacturer is not responsible for mistakes that could be found in this handbook
and also for direct or indirect damage resulting from the equipment, its performances
and the use of this product.
It is the responsibility of the user to verify the calibration of the display before
measuring and it is advised to check periodically the calibration and
measurement performance.
CLEANING
Use a soft cotton cloth slightly soaked with an ethyl alcohol based product.
DO NOT USE the following products: acetone, benzene, toluene and halogens
hydrocarbons.
3. INTRODUCTION
3.1. PRODUCT PRESENTATION
The M3 display unit allows making dimensional control using 1 or 2 probes.
It is possible to make simple measurement (with one probe), or combined
measurement (with 2 probes): sums or differences. It is possible to display 1 or 2
characteristics on the screen and can make static measurement or dynamic (Max,
Min, Max-Min…)
The M3 can be connected to a PC thanks to its RS232 or USB connection.
A footswitch can be connected in order to transfer measurements.
3.2. VERSIONS
The following probes can be connected
M3 Reference Description
13000 2 x TTL probe or encoder : Direct
connection of Heidenhain and through
and adaptor for Magnescale (DK series)
and Mituto
y
o
(
LG series
)
13010 2 x inductive probes from Metro
13020 2 x incremental probes or encoder from

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Heidenhain with a 11µA or 1Vpp output
1301T 2 inductive probe with a Tesa
compatibilit
y
1301M 2 x inductive probe from Mah
r
3.3. CHARACTERISTICS
3.3.1. Main technical characteristics
TFT colour touch screen display 4,3’’, resolution 480x272.
Static or dynamic measurements (Max, Min, Max-Min, Average, Median)
Analogue or digital display
2 measurement configurations (2 characteristics)
Possibility to select automatically the characteristic by moving a probe or by
pressing a key.
Relative or absolute display by pressing a key
Display resolution (from 1 to 5 decimals)
Metric (mm or µm) or Imperial (Inches) measurement
RS232 port for communication with a PC
USB port for communication and/or power supply
Optional connection of I/O module
Measurement transfer by pressing a key, footswitch input or retro-command on
the RS232 port.
Operating temperature : : +15°C to +30°C
Power supply from 85 to 265 VAC by using the supplied main transformer (or by
connecting it directly on your PC USB port.
Relative humidity : maximum 80%
Dimensions : width 136 mm, height 120 mm, depth 105 mm
Mass : 600 grams (700g with the power supply)

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3.3.2. Dimension and installation
The M3 is fitted with 4 thread M5 allowing to attach it. To access to these thread it is
necessary to remove the 4 antiskid plastic parts.
It is also possible to panel mount the display, with the accessory ref ACS-AFF-001.
Be careful not to use longer screw than M4*16.
Remove the
antiskid parts to
attach it on the
table

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3.3.3. Contents of the packaging
The M3 package includes :
- 1 M3 display mounted on a stand
- 1 USB cable, (length =1.8m) for power supply and/or data transfer
- 1 USB main adaptor for the display power supply. The M3 can also be powered by a
computer when connected to it with the USB.
3.3.4. Options
Metro
Reference
Description Picture
18020 Footswitch :
This footswitch with a robust construction can be
configured in different ways : preset, measurement
transmission, start dynamic measurement etc...
18022 Handswitch
This footswitch with a robust construction can be
configured in different ways: preset, measurement
transmission, start dynamic measurement etc...
ACS-AFF-
001
Accessory for panel mounting.
To be installed instead of the stand.
MB-IO This M-Bus module is fitted with 8 input/outputs
isolated with opto couplers allowing to get additional
functionalities, for example: output for Go/no Go, input
for preset or start dynamic measurement... The M-Bus
modules are mounted on an aluminum profile allowing
to mount them on a standard DIN rail.
Up to 4 modules can be mounted

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MB-RL The optional MB-RL module is fitted with 2
independent relays min and max, free of potential that
indicate the position of the measure according to the
part tolerances. The module is also fitted with 6 inputs
allowing to remote control the display.
This MB-RL module is wired exactly like the #24136
optional board for Monocote displays. It allows then to
replace a Monocote by a M3 without changing the
machine/plc wiring.

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81213-
1.5
M-Bus cable for M3 (TTL or 1Vpp or 11µA version) :
This cable allows to connect the compatible M-Bus
modules on a M3 display unit. Length 1.5m. The cable
is fitted with a M8 conenctor on the display side.
81210-
(2-5 or
10)
M-Bus cable for M3 inductive version :
This cable allows to connect the compatible M-Bus
modules on a M3 display unit. Length 1.5m. The cable
is fitted with a SUBD9 on the display side
24062 Magnescale probe adapter for M3 TTL :
This cable allows to connect 1 Magnescale probe on a
M3 (ref 13000) display. It integrates an electronic
board that manages the error signal form the
Magnescale probes.

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84100 Heidenhain M23/11µA to D-SUB 15 adapter for M3
11µA/1Vpp :
This cable allows to connect 1 Heidenhain probe like
MT12 or MT25 with the round M23 connector on a M3
(ref 13020) display.
45160 RS232 cable
This cable allows to connect a M3 display to a
computer.
18193 This cable allows to connect a M3 display to a
Multiplexer Mux from Metro, and to the DP1 printer
from Mitutoyo

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45173 RS232/USB cable converter :
This cable allows a M3 display to communicate with a
computer. It creates a virtual COM port on the
computer. It is delivered with a driver on a CD.
24061 This cable allows to connect 1 Mitutoyo LG probe on a
M3 (ref 13000) display.
ACS-
AFF-
002
+
45179
Ticket printer
Print the displayed values from the M1/M3
Require a cable ref 45179 for connecting to the
M1/M3
ACS-
AFF-
003
QR code reader for Metro displays.
2 main functions :
- Allow to send a configuration on the display (part
definition, tolerance, display type, etc)
- Send a Manufacturing order number. The export file
will take the name of the number entered.

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3.3.5. Connectors
3.3.5.1. Version for inductive probes
Note: Metro provides different version for M3 for inductive probes : for Tesa
compatible probes, for Mahr, for Metro or for Marposs. Each of these probes has the
same DIN-5 connector but is different internally. It is therefore necessary to use the
adapted probe depending on your product reference.
You can contact Metro or distributors for any advice about this point.
To connect M-BUS
modules (optional)
On/Off switch
(press 2s. for
shutting down).
Disabled if the unit
is powered by the
24VDC connector
2 inputs for
inductive probes.
Be careful to use a
compatible probe
depending on your
product reference.
RS232
connector for
connection to a
PC or PLC
Multi-function
footswitch
connecto
r
Mini-USB
connector for
power supply
and
measurement
transfer to a PC
24 VDC power supply. If you choose
this connector to power the display, the
ON-OFF switch will be deactivated.
This power supply is not available on
the Mahr and Marposs devices
USB connector for
USB stick or QR
Code readers

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3.3.5.2. Version for incremental probes and encoders
Important Note : 2 versions of this unit are available. For sinewave 11µA and 1Vpp
probes (ref 13020), and for TTL probes (ref 13000).
Please make sure that you are using the right version of M3 depending on the probe
you use.
The TTL version allows to connect the Magnescale DK and Mitutoyo LG gages with a
cable adapter.
It is possible to connect rotary encoders from different brands. You can contact Metro
for any question about this subject.
To connect M-
Bus modules
(optional)
On/Off switch
(press 2s. for
shutting down)
2 inputs for
incremental
probes with the
Heidenhain
pinout. For
Mitutoyo LG or
Magnescale DK,
please use an
adapter
RS232
connector for
connection to a
PC
Multi-function
footswitch
connecto
r
Mini-USB
connector for
power supply
and
measurement
transfer to a PC
24 VDC power supply. If you choose
this connector to power the display, the
ON-OFF switch will be deactivated.
This power supply is not available on
the Mahr and Marposs devices
USB connector for
USB stick or QR
Code readers

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3.3.6. RS232 communication port
The M3 is fitted with a RS232 port. It allows linking the M3 to PC or an external
system. The configuration is as following
9600 bauds, 8 bits, 1 stop bit, no parity
CONNECTOR PINOUT
It is fitted with a SUBD 9 pins female connector.
Pin Signa
l
Direction Description
1 Not used
2 RX Input Reception of data
3 TX Output Transfer of data
4 IN1 Input Do no use. Onl
y
for firmware update
5 Gnd - Ground
6 Not used
7 IN2 Input Do no use. Onl
y
for firmware update
8 &9 Not used
3.3.7. MINI-USB connector
The mini-USB connector has 2 functions
1. Power supply through a wall mounted transformer. This transformer supplies a
regulated 5V/1A DC voltage.
2. Measurement transmission. If you connect your M3 to a PC, the PC will detect
and install automatically the M3 as a standard USB keyboard with the standard
drivers of your operating system (Windows, Mac OS etc..). When you will send
the measurement, the value will be written on your PC screen where your
cursor is, in the same way as it would have been typed with a keyboard.
Message that appears when the M1/M3 has been correctly installed:

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3.3.8. The 24VDC connector
It is advised to use this power supply when the M3 is panel mounted.
Using this power supply instead of the mini-USB will deactivate the ON-OFF switch.
Therefore, when the M3 is powered, it will start automatically.
3.3.9. The USB stick connector
This connector allows to connect USB sticks and USB bar code readers (see chapter
12). It is possible to connect both at the same time using a USB hub.
It is possible to save measurements on a CSV file.
In this case the display must be set the following way:
Configuration Transfer USB key
Then once the user either press on the « PRINT » button of the measuring screen or
on the footswitch, one line will be added on the CSV file. (a « output.csv » file is
created when the operator transfers the data for the first time).
When the USB stick has been correctly detected, a USB logo will appear on top bar.
If the USB stick is not connected when the operator transfers the measurement, an
error message will pop up.
USB sticks with partitions are not supported.
3.3.10. The footswitch connector
This connector is used to connect the Metro footswitch ref 18020.
This is a JACK MONO 3.5mm (dry contact)

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The footswitch can then be used for several functions: please refer yourself to the
chapter 5.4 for further information.
- Transfert the measurement
- Preset
- Start a dynamic measurement
- Zero
- Change the displayed part reference
- Hold (freezes the display) In this case, the button “CLEAR” in the measuring
screen becomes yellow:
- Screenshot : require to have a footswitch connected + a USB stick inserted. It
creates a BMP file (screenshot) in the USB stick.
4. GRAPHICAL INTERFACE
The graphical interface of your M3 has been designed to be easy to use and intuitive.
This section gives you a preview of the different screens and commands available
4.1. 2 MAIN PARTS
The graphical interface of your M3 is divided in 2 main parts:
1. A part that allows configuring the device and the measure. It consists of an
icon desktop with a few windows.

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icon desktop icon desktop with configuration window
The second part (measuring screen) is called by pressing the button
2. This part allows to see the measurement result and to use them. The M3
starts on this screen. For reaching the configuration screens, press on the
button
Example of measuring screen
Press on this
icon to reach
the main icon
desktop to
configure your
device

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4.2. GENERALITIES
The following information can be seen on the upper part of the screen.
Advanced functions:
It is possible to enter a characteristic name, either with an RS232 command, or by
scanning a QR code.
After this, the characteristic name is written instead of P1 : C(1).
Name of the active
part reference and
formula. Here Part 1
with Channel 1
Static or
dynamic (Max,
Min etc…)
Unit: mm, µm, inch
or decimal degree
Inside or
outside
measurement
Characteristic name,
entered with RS232 or
QR code

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In the same way it is also possible to input a manufacturer order either with an RS232
command, or by scanning a QR code :
Note : When either a characteristic name or a manufacturing order name has been
entered, only 1 information appear on the blue bar. However, the information display
can be changed by touching the area :
Manufacturing order
number entered with
RS232 or QR code
USB logo appear when
a USB stick or a QR
code reader has been
plugged.
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