Powelectrics Metron 2 User manual

Metron 2 Technical Manual and Specification
Revision 2.0
January 2013
Powelectrics Ltd
Sandy Hill Park
Sandy Way
Tamworth
Staffordshire
B77 4DU
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.powelectrics.co.uk/metron2
[e-mail]

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Contents
Contents................................................................................................................................................................................1
1General Information and Safety.................................................................................................................................3
1.1 Document Revision History.............................................................................................................................3
1.2 Proprietary Notice............................................................................................................................................4
1.3 Safety...............................................................................................................................................................4
1.4 Battery Information and Safety........................................................................................................................4
1.5 Components supplied......................................................................................................................................6
1.6 Definitions / Glossary ......................................................................................................................................6
1.7 Part numbers...................................................................................................................................................7
1.8 Symbols...........................................................................................................................................................7
2Introduction to the Metron 2 ......................................................................................................................................8
2.1 How to install, setup and commission the Metron 2 .......................................................................................8
2.2 Requirements for Technical Support...............................................................................................................8
2.3 Overview..........................................................................................................................................................8
2.4 Specification ....................................................................................................................................................9
3Installation instructions............................................................................................................................................10
3.1 Mechanical installation ..................................................................................................................................10
3.2 Electrical installation......................................................................................................................................11
3.2.1 Power supplies and consumption......................................................................................................11
3.2.2 Sensor types and Input wiring ...........................................................................................................13
0 –10V output (three wire)............................................................................................................................13
0 –5V ratiometric (three wire).......................................................................................................................13
4 –20mA loop (two wire, +V and IN) ...........................................................................................................13
4 –20mA or 0 –20mA powered (three wire)................................................................................................13
Switched input / Volt free contact (two wire, +V and IN)...............................................................................13
Other –Please contact Powelectrics with any other sensor type.................................................................13
3.2.3 Output wiring......................................................................................................................................13
3.3 SIM cards and Carriers .................................................................................................................................14
3.4 External Antennas.........................................................................................................................................14
4Using the unit and commissioning .........................................................................................................................15
4.1 How it works ..................................................................................................................................................15
4.2 Using the menus and buttons .......................................................................................................................15
4.2.1 Menu structure and functions ............................................................................................................15
4.2.2 Outline of operational modes.............................................................................................................18
4.2.3 Transmission Process –Flow Chart..................................................................................................19
4.2.4 Meanings of Icons..............................................................................................................................22
4.3 Important notes about how the Metron 2 operates.......................................................................................22
SIM updates ..................................................................................................................................................22
Timekeeping..................................................................................................................................................22
Network selection..........................................................................................................................................23
4.4 Types of Digital Inputs...................................................................................................................................23
4.5 Before you start .............................................................................................................................................23
4.6 General..........................................................................................................................................................23
4.7 Configuration .................................................................................................................................................24
4.8 Configuration tool software............................................................................................................................24
4.8.1 Installation of the config tool and driver.............................................................................................24
4.8.2 Using the config tool ..........................................................................................................................25
System configuration.....................................................................................................................................25
Input configuration.........................................................................................................................................26
Output configuration......................................................................................................................................34
Communcations configuration.......................................................................................................................35
4.8.3 Driver Issues......................................................................................................................................37
4.8.4 Updating the firmware using USB......................................................................................................37
4.9 Important information ....................................................................................................................................38
4.9.1 Decimal places and scaling ...............................................................................................................38
4.9.2 Cell ID ................................................................................................................................................38
4.10 Commissioning Guidelines............................................................................................................................38
5Example Configurations...........................................................................................................................................39
5.1 How to calculate values for sensors..............................................................................................................39
5.2 Example 1......................................................................................................................................................39
5.3 Example 2......................................................................................................................................................40
6Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................................................41

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6.1 Frequently Asked Questions.........................................................................................................................41
6.2 Error messages .............................................................................................................................................43
6.3 Other errors ...................................................................................................................................................44
1General Information and Safety
1.1 Document Revision History
Revision
Date
Notes
V7.1.5.0.9
12/01/2012
Revised to suit latest firmware revision (0.6.0.3) & hardware variations
V2.0
7/1/2013
Combined all documents, new revision of user manual ready for print
V2.1
21/1/2013
Minor corrections / updates after review
V2.2
04/10/2013
Various corrections made

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1.2 Proprietary Notice
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. Company or product names mentioned in this
document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
All rights reserved. Neither the whole nor any part of the information contained in this publication may be reproduced in
any material form except with the written permission of Powelectrics Ltd.
This publication is intended only to assist the reader in the use of the product. Powelectrics Ltd. shall not be liable for any
loss or damage arising from the use of any information in this publication, or any error or omission in such information, or
any incorrect use of the product.
1.3 Safety
Read carefully these instructions and notes before powering your Metron2. For each situation please follow
the specific instructions.
The Metron2 is a low power radio transmitter and receiver. When it is powered, it will send and receive radio
frequency (RF) signals.
Operating the Metron2 close to other electrical equipment such as television, phone, radios and personal
computer, may cause interference.
Interference - The Metron2, like all wireless devices, is subject to interferences that may reduce its
performance.
Road Safety - Do not use the Metron2 while driving. In case of use on cars, it is necessary to check that
electronic equipment is shielded against RF signal. Do not place the Metron2 over the air bag or in the air bag
deployment area.
Hospital Safety - Do not use the Metron2 near health equipment, especially pacemaker and hearing aids, to
avoid potential interferences. The Metron2 is a not mobile phone; do not use it in direct contact with the human
body. Switch it off in hospitals, and in any other type of medical centre. Hospitals or health care facilities may
be using equipment that could be sensitive to external RF energy.
Explosive Materials - Do not use the Metron2 in refuelling points, near fuel or chemicals. Do not use the
Metron2 where blasting is in progress. Observe restrictions, and follow any regulation or instruction.
Do not use the Metron2 in direct contact with the human body; do not touch the antenna if not necessary when
the Metron2 is powered. Use approved accessories and batteries only. Do not connect incompatible products.
1.4 Battery Information and Safety
The Metron2 is available with an integral battery.
Do not use if the battery casing appears damaged
Do not attempt to recharge the battery
Do not short circuit
Only use supplied battery with the Metron2
The battery is a high energy density sealed battery containing dangerous (Lithium) and deleterious (Thionyl
Chloride) materials. For this reason, improper handling of the battery could lead to distortion, leakage,
overheating, explosion, fire, or generation of irritating/corrosive gases, causing bodily injury or equipment
trouble. Please observe the following instructions to prevent accidents.
Do not use if you suspect any damage to the casing, cabling or connector.

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Do not connect to a Metron2 when the programmer is connected.
Be careful not to drop –if dropped please do not use.
Do not short circuit the battery –if you suspect this possible then disconnect and do not use.
Do not apply heat to the battery.
Do not expose the battery to open flames.
Never disassemble the battery.
Never deform the battery.
Do not reverse polarity the battery –take extra care to ensure connections are the right way round.
Do not connect 2 or more batteries together.
Do not store the batteries in direct sunlight.
Store batteries in non-conductive trays (e.g. plastic, wood or cardboard).
Do not use near water.
Do not have rings on your fingers when handling batteries, otherwise wear insulating gloves.
First aid measures
Only in case of contact with internal components of the battery:
Skin contact: flush with plenty of water
Eye contact: flush with plenty of water (eyelids held open)
Inhalation: breath fresh air and give oxygen or artificial respiration by specialist people
Ingestion: drink plenty of water and consult a doctor
Fire fighting measures
Evacuate the building and leave it to the professionals. Advise the fire fighters that there are batteries in the
building and the advice is to use extinguishers type D, Lith-X, DO NOT USE WATER in case of battery leakage
Special hazards: irritating vapour
Special protective equipment: wear protective clothing, use self-contained breathing apparatus with filtered
cartridge type ABEK
Leakage measures
In case of break of a battery, all the people must go away from the place where the incident happened and
come back only after the dissolution of the irritating gas.
Broken batteries or battery packs must be covered with sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) or dry sand, place them in
approved container and dispose in accordance with local regulation.
Disposal
Please return batteries to Powelectrics for disposal. Ensure suitable packaging in used. Do not use air freight.
Replacing the Battery
The battery used in the Metron2 must be supplied by Powelectrics Ltd. Its warranty will be void if any other
battery is used as it may damage the Metron2 or cause it to malfunction. To remove the battery, undo the
Velcro strap

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1.5 Components supplied
The Metron in its standard form comes with a number of standard parts. If you are an OEM customer, we may supply
you with a variation on this.
Metron 2 cardboard box
Metron 2 Unit
4 x M12 Cable Glands (one fitted) with O rings
5 or 6 x M12 Blanking plugs (two fitted) with O rings depending on model
1 x Breather gland (fitted) with O ring
1.6 Definitions / Glossary
Modem –This is the part of the Metron 2 that allows external communication (sending of data and text messages).
GSM –Global System for Mobile communications –This is the standard that the modem in the Metron 2 uses to
communicate.
Carrier / Network –This is the network operator or service provider, e.g. AT&T or Vodafone
Volt Free Contact –A simple contact or switch that is either on or off.
Sensor –This is a part that measures a specific parameter, environmental condition
Cell ID –The specific cell that the Metron 2 is connected to. It can be used for approximate location.
Booting –The process that occurs to switch on the modem. This normally takes less than one minute
Unit –The Metron 2 may be referred to as the unit in some sections
Programming –Configuring the Metron 2 may be referred to as this
RTU –Remote Telemetry Unit, refers to the Metron 2

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1.7 Part numbers
Part number
Description
METRON2/S
4 analogue inputs, 6-24Vdc power supply
METRON2/SSM
4 analogue inputs, integral 3.6 volt battery
METRON2/S/2RE
4 analogue inputs, 6-24Vdc power supply, 2 relay outputs
METRON2/SSM/2RE
4 analogue inputs, integral 3.6 volt battery, 2 relay outputs
CPS758
Battery (3.6 volt, 14AH, non-rechargeable)
1.8 Symbols
Symbol
What it means
Indicates that this is important information and should be adhered to
Indicates that this is very useful information and is essential to understand the Metron 2

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2Introduction to the Metron 2
2.1 How to install, setup and commission the Metron 2
If you are new to the Metron 2, the following basic process must be followed:
1. Read through the remainder of the introduction to the Metron 2
2. Mechanically mount and understand how to seal the Metron 2 (section 3.1)
3. Electrically wire in the Metron 2, observing requirements (section 3.2)
4. Fit SIM card
5. Understand and then configure the Metron 2 (section 4)
6. Follow strictly the commissioning guidelines (section 4.10)
If you are experiencing problems with the Metron 2, please refer to the troubleshooting guides and FAQ. If you
still require support, please look at the checklist below (2.2) and contact your distributor, or Powelectrics if
purchased directly.
2.2 Requirements for Technical Support
Please note that if you wish to contact us for technical support setting up a unit, before we can help you we will
need some information from you.
Necessary:
Serial Number
SIM card information
Access to the unit and its physical location
What you would like the Metron 2 to do
Information about the sensors or inputs into the Metron
Ideally:
An exact configuration you would like
A laptop or computer with the software running
A mini USB cable
A multi-meter
Specific part numbers for the sensors or inputs to the Metron
A SIM card that you have sent a SMS message from using a normal phone (important!)
2.3 Overview
This document describes all the functions, features and interfaces of the Metron2 telemetry device.
Applications
A few of the applications that this device has been designed for include:
Remote Tank Level Monitoring
Environmental Monitoring
Meter Reading
Condition Monitoring
Alarm Reporting
Summary of Technical Features
Ability to interface with up to four analogue (0-10V or 4-20mA), digital (ON/OFF)
On-board excitation, 3.6 volts (non-regulated), 5 v, or 21.6 volts (max 31.25mA)

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Internal battery powered with a long life, or external 6 to 24 V DC power source (0.5 amps).
Back lit LCD Display, 40 x 40mm, 128 x 128 pixels, to help with on-site setup & diagnosis
Quad-band operation
USB port for programming & firmware upgrade.
Expansion board socket for future use.
As the Metron2 is normally a battery powered device it has been designed in such a way to extend this life to a
maximum. This means during normal operation the display will be off, the sensors excitation will be off and the
GSM engine will be powered down. As required these are switched on by the processor and when finished with
they are switched off. If the unit is powered from an external source then the unit can be configured so that the
GSM engine is always on.
2.4 Specification
General
Number of input channels
4
Connectors
4 x 3 Pin 3.81mm Pitch for Sensors, 1 x 2 PIN for power
Warranty
24 Months RTB. Does not cover above or incorrect
installation
Enclosure
Environmental
IP67 Rated
Dimensions
125 x 75 x 65 (mm)
Communications
Operating Frequency
850/900/1800/1900Mhz
Output power
Class 4 (2W) 850/900 MHz
Class 1 (1W) 1800/1900 MHz
Electrical
Power Supply (IN)
3.6, or 6 to 24 V DC @ 0.5A –please ensure supply is
smooth. Check the type of Metron2 you have.
Excitation Supply (To
sensors)
3.6 v (unregulated), 5 v or 21.6 v. 31.25mA maximum
Input types
Digital or Analogue
Analogue input
channels
Resolution
10 bit (1024 Increments)
Accuracy
0.25%
Antenna
Internal or external (via SMA connector)
Display
40 x 40mm, 128 x 128
pixels
Backlit
General
Number of input channels
4
Connectors
4 x 3 Pin 3.81mm Pitch for Sensors, 1 x 2 PIN for power
Expansion Card
Number of input channels
5
Input type
Digital or Pulse
Maximum pulse frequency
10Hz

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3Installation instructions
3.1 Mechanical installation
138
75
68
All dimensions in mm.
Open the lid to reveal the 2 mounting holes. These should be used to fasten the Metron 2 down to a baseplate,
wall or other surface. To access these two holes, you may have to remove two M12 blanking plugs. These
must be replaced.
The two screws on the front of the enclosure should not be over tightened –otherwise it is possible to break the
watertight seal by tearing or deforming the ‘O’ ring below the head of each screw.
The unit needs a mobile phone signal to work –the stronger the signal the better so try and avoid mounting
inside metal cabinets or underground. Mounting it on the outside of a metal container may help improve the
signal, depending on the direction and location. Use the ‘Get config / signal’ feature to find the optimum location
first.
Weatherproofing Information
It is essential that the following is checked if being used outdoors
All cable glands and breather glands on the unit should have an ‘O’ ring fitted and are sufficiently
tightened
Both screws on the top are tightened, but not over tightened
The seal around the lid is correctly in place

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3.2 Electrical installation
com
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7
6
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3.2.1 Power supplies and consumption
Your choice of power source needs to suit your application. You can use an internal lithium battery (not rechargeable)
but for now you must use an external 5 to 24 Vdc power source (could be solar, wind, a larger battery, or a 110/230 Vac
to 6-24Vdc power supply). The supply needs to be quite well regulated and capable of delivering a peak of 0.5A.
Important: only configure the unit to operate in power states 1 (GPRS pollable), 2 (SMS pollable) or 3 (transmit on power
up). Power state is part of the system command.
The power consumption will vary depending on how the unit is programmed. If Powering from the internal battery then
be sure to configure the ‘modem power scheme’ as ‘power off between transmit events.’
When ‘asleep’ the device will draw approximately 85 micro amps.
Please note that the battery capacity quoted by the manufacturers is not always fully available to the Metron2. Please
consult Powelectrics for advice on how long the battery will last in your application.
The current consumption varies depending on the state of the unit. The figures below are based on a power supply
between 3.6 to 4.2 volts.
Deep sleep 85 micro amps (screen, sensors and GSM modem off)
Screen on add 28mA
USB connected add 8mA
GSM on (in ‘polling’ mode) add 24mA (typically)
During analogue read now add 50mA average –depends on settling time per sensor but allow at least 5 seconds
The device will not function correctly if the supply voltage is between 4.2 and 5 volts.
If the supply voltage is greater than 5v there is additional components are in use within the Metron2 and it therefore
draws 2mA in ‘deep sleep’ mode. If you intend to use in an application where the power demand is too great for the
integral battery option (Metron2/SSM) then you will need to consider this and select the supply accordingly.
When the unit is communicating over GSM/GPRS the current consumption fluctuates over time and varies depending on
the signal strength. The length of time the communications takes depends on how long it takes to charge the on board
super-capacitors, how long it takes to register onto the network and how long communications takes (with GPRS
communications t is up to the host to ‘kill’ the connection).

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Battery safety is important. The CPS5758 has a very high power density and needs to be treated with care. It is possible
to find lower cost alternatives but these are unlikely to include suitable fusing and ventilation and should not be used
After each transmission the Metron2 stays connected to the mobile phone network for 45 seconds providing time for
SMS messages to be received should they have been sent to reconfigure the unit.
Source
Notes
5V USB power supply
USB cable needs to be spliced. Red = Positive (+), Black = Negative (-). Only use
very high quality supplies that can provide 500mA or greater. Cheap, non-genuine
versions commonly cause problems and damage to many products.
5 –24V open frame or DIN
rail mount power supply
Double check polarity before powering on. Mains wiring must be carried out by
someone who is suitably qualified. High quality switch mode or linear supplies
should be acceptable.
6 –24V lead acid battery
(trickle charged)
Extra care should be taken while wiring and a separate external fuse should always
be used.
Lead acid battery charged
from alternator
Often the charging method means that the supply will not be smooth (from an
alternator or generator for example) and can cause problems. A maximum of a 24V
system is allowed.
3.9V Lithium battery
Only use Powelectrics supplied battery.
3.6 –4V power supply
Not recommended. Do not use this method.

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3.2.2 Sensor types and Input wiring
Run the cable through the glands & tighten. Unplug the green connectors and wire in as required. Ensure
unused glands are replaced with blanking plugs to prevent water from getting inside the unit.
Each input channel has its own plug and corresponding socket. On each socket, three connections are
available.
0V:This is the 0V / -Ve connection for the channel, although they are all common to each other.
+V:This will provide the supply voltage to the channel, also known as the excitation voltage. This is
configurable to either 21.6V, 5V or 3.6V (un-regulated). It is important that the load on this does not exceed
31.25mA.
IN:This is the input for the channel, also known as ‘signal.’ This will accept 0-10V or 4-20mA.
Note: It is important that the channel used for the sensor excitation and the sensor inputs are the same.
0 –10V output (three wire)
This sensor type will typically have a greater than 14V input, while the output will vary between 0 and 10V
depending on the readings. Generally, but not always, these use less power than the same sensor type with a
4-20mA output.
0 –5V ratiometric (three wire)
The sensor will be supplied with 5V (+/- 2.5%) –with this the sensor feeds a proportion of the voltage back to
the input. Usually this type requires very little power.
4 –20mA loop (two wire, +V and IN)
The sensor is measured using a current loop. This means that the total power consumption of the sensor varies
between 4 and 20mA depending on the measurement of the sensor. The benefit of using a current based
output is that it is generally more immune to external interference than a voltage output.
4 –20mA or 0 –20mA powered (three wire)
This type is powered from a separate supply and the output varies depending on the measurement of the
sensor. This type of sensor is usually used when the minimum current requirement exceeds 4mA meaning a
two wire system is not possible.
Switched input / Volt free contact (two wire, +V and IN)
This is simply a switch –the contact will be supplied with 3.6V from the +V contact. The input will monitor the
state of the switch using this wetting voltage.
Other –Please contact Powelectrics with any other sensor type
3.2.3 Output wiring

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The two outputs are the two right hand side three way connectors. The internal relays for the outputs are
optional and are not supplied in the Metron as standard, though the connectors will still be present.
The outputs should not be used for switching high voltages (mains voltages). They are each rated to switch 2A
at 30V DC.
3.3 SIM cards and Carriers
SIM card selection is often the cause of connectivity issues. There are a number of requirements needed from
the SIM card for it to operate correctly
It is the correct type (full size SIM, not micro or nano SIM)
It does not have a PIN enabled on the SIM
There is network coverage where you plan to use it
Roaming is enabled if using outside of the country of purchase
The APN, username and password for the SIM contract are correct.
Replacing the SIM
1. Open the lid to reveal the SIM card holder.
2. Note the orientation of the SIM socket, using the drawing behind the socket
3. Slide the SIM into the socket
4. If the installation is going to be moving or vibrating, you may wish to use a piece of high-tack tape across the
back to prevent the SIM from moving in these conditions
Manually selecting a carrier
If you are using a roaming SIM that is capable of using multiple carriers in the installation location, then you
may want to select a specific carrier to use by default. This may also be especially useful if there are two weak
differing networks in the area and the unit switches between them frequently. To do this, follow these
instructions.
1. Verify if you have a roaming SIM. Do not proceed if you do not.
2. Go to the menu option ‘System’ and then ‘Carrier Select’
3. It will take a little while to boot the modem if necessary and query the networks
4. A list of operators that are available in the area will appear. It does not mean you will have permission to
connect to them all.
5. Select the operator that you wish to use in the future.
If the unit is not able to connect to the carrier that you have selected next time, it will fall back to automatic
selection.
3.4 External Antennas
The Metron2 has an integral antenna. The system has been designed to gain optimum signal strength to the
mobile phone network but it is possible to use an external antenna. If you are in an area of poor signal strength,
or mounting the unit inside a metal enclosure then you may need to connect an external antenna. If using an
external antenna then select this option when programming or use the menu option to enable.

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Special fittings for the external antenna
The SMA connector that is present on the board usually requires a mating connector that is too large to fit
through the standard M12 cable glands that are supplied. We can provide a M12 to M16 gland adaptor that
allows fitting of this.
4Using the unit and commissioning
4.1 How it works
Unit Asleep &
modem off
Wake up interval –
powers the
sensors and takes
readings
Transmit interval –
(or upon alarm) it
powers up
Unit Asleep &
modem off
The wakeup interval and transmit intervals operate independently. So it is possible to wake up and check the
sensors many times per day, but only transmit far less frequently.
Between each wake up interval and each transmit interval, the unit is effectively shut down to minimise the
power required. During this time, no communication (SMS or GPRS) will be possible to or from the unit. The
only exception to this is if you have configured polling mode, where the modem is continuously powered.
4.2 Using the menus and buttons
Up
Select the highlighted
option
Down
Go back a menu
level
Use the arrow buttons on the front of the display to navigate the menus. When wanting to leave a menu
selection, or return to the previous menu, you will need to press and hold the left button.
Multi-tasking - The Metron2 can only do one thing at once, and there are times when it may be taking actions
in the background. For example if you have Idle set to 1 in the ‘system configuration’ command then at power
up the unit will be setting up the gsm modem in order to make it pollable and you may find it is a little slow to
respond to any button presses.
4.2.1 Menu structure and functions

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Channels Read Now
Info
Thresholds
Notes
System
Temperature
Get Config / Signal
Phone Book
Unit Info
Output 1 - 2 State
Info
Intervals
GPRS Settings
Antenna
Carrier Selection
SMS Acknowledge
SIM Activation
GSM Information
ENS State
Autoconfig
Display Errors
LCD Orientation
Last Transmission
Statistics
Firmware Version
Calibration Values
Update
Force Transmit
Safe Shutdown
About
Read Now
Option
What it does
Read Now
This allows the sensor to be powered up and read. A number of other real time
measurements will be read out which will help setting up the sensor (Vo = Voltage Out,
Vin = Voltage on input, Iin = Current on input, A/D = raw analogue to digital value)

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Info
Displays the various settings relating to the input selected
Thresholds
Displays each of the high and low thresholds that has been set on the channel
Notes
Displays any notes that have been set on that channel
State
Displays the current state of the output
Info
Displays the current configuration of the output
Temperature
Displays the Internal temperature of the Metron 2
Get Config / Signal
Powers on the modem and checks for SMS messages. Waits for 60 seconds after
powering on. Also shows the network / carrier that it is connected to and the signal
quality. The signal quality is a value from 0 to 31, with 31 being the best and zero being
the worst. We recommend a signal of 10 or better for GPRS connections.
Phone Book
Displays the phone numbers that are programmed into the device
Unit info
Displays most of the system programmable parameters
Intervals
Displays the timings that have been programmed
GPRS Settings
Displays the GPRS settings on the unit
Antenna
Allows selection of the internal or external antenna to be used. This setting cannot be
changed remotely and must be set using this option.
Carrier Selection
This option boots the modem and performs a carrier scan. It then presents the list of
available operators to choose from. Selecting one causes it to attempt to connect to that
carrier in the future, though does not guarantee success.
SMS Acknowledge
The SMS acknowledge option, if enabled, means that each SMS received will have a
SMS sent to the originating number. This message will either confirm successful receipt
of the message or a description of the problem with the message. When the unit goes
back into run mode (LCD off), this will be automatically disabled.
SIM Activation
Allows the modem to be kept powered for a fixed period of time –this is useful when
SIM cards need to be activated.
GSM Information
This shows various information about the network and SIM card.
ENS state
ENS is ‘Enhanced Network Services’. This is not normally required and should be left
disabled unless problems with roaming SIMs are found.
Autoconfig
This allows the ‘autoconfig’ flag in the Powelectrics protocol to be set to on, indicating a
configuration is required.
Display Errors
Makes all errors visible on the LCD when encountered, including non-critical issues.
This can be especially useful when troubleshooting connectivity problems.
LCD Orientation
If you wish to mount the unit at a specific angle, you can adjust the orientation of the
screen here.
Last Transmission
Displays various information relating to the last transmit, such as data transmitted and
received.
Statistics
Displays a lot of statistics about the unit. Some of these statistics are not used.
Version
Shows the version number of the firmware, MCU revision and other various details
Calibration Values
This shows a complete list of the factory set calibration values
Update
Used to enter the USB bootloader mode
Force Transmit
This will initiate the transmit process. It will give an error if the unit does not have
enough settings entered to complete the process.
Safe Shutdown
If the unit is in polling mode, you should use this option before disconnecting the power
About
Displays information about the Metron

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4.2.2 Outline of operational modes
There are four modes that can be configured for the Metron 2 to run in –these change how the Metron 2
behaves between transmits and when it is connected to the GSM network. It is configured under the ‘system’
tab using the config tool or using the ,2, (system) command if configuring manually.
Mode
What it does
Power off between
transmit events (0)
The modem will power down between transmit intervals. During this time it will be
unable to receive any SMS messages, GPRS communications or connect to any
network.
Always on (GPRS
Pollable when idle) (1)
The modem will idle between transmit intervals and be pollable using GPRS.
Unit auto detects if internal battery is used and will default to 0 if this is the case to
optimise battery life. It will be able to receive both SMS messages and GPRS
communications and it will always be connected to a network.
Always on (SMS Pollable
when idle) (2)
Modem will idle between transmit intervals and be pollable using SMS only. No GPRS
capable SIM is required for this to work correctly.
Transmit on Power up
(then to SMS Pollable) (3)
Modem will idle between transmit intervals and be pollable using SMS only. No GPRS
capable SIM is required for this to work correctly. It will also initiate a transmit upon
power on. This may be useful as an indicator of when the unit loses power

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4.2.3 Transmission Process –Flow Chart
Both the log and alarm process follow the same process for transmission. The blue diamonds are complete processes
that can be found separately.
Transmission
Triggered
Transmission is
cancelled, error
message displayed
Power Up Modem
(Typically < 60
seconds
Load Backup
settings into Normal
memory
No
Transmission is
cancelled, error
message displayed
Is it connected
to a network?
Are any GPRS
settings programmed?
Is a SIM inserted?No Set up modem Yes
No
Yes
Transmission
Complete
Yes
Follow ‘GPRS
transmit’ process.
Successful?
Retry for 300
seconds. Successful
network connection?
Transmission is
cancelled, error
message displayed No
Yes
Follow ‘SMS
transmit’ process.
Successful?
Yes
Are any SMS settings
programmed?
No
Yes
Transmission is
cancelled, error
message displayed
No
Are there any
GPRS or SMS
settings available?
Are there any backup
GPRS settings?
Yes Yes
No
Yes
Set ‘Failed GPRS
transmit flag’ (retry
in 15 minutes)
No No

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GPRS Transmit Process
Connected to
gateway?
Apply GPRS
settings
Follow ‘GPRS
transmit’ process.
Successful?
Is GPRS PDP context
active?
If GPRS PDP
context is not
active, request
activation
Set socket 50200
to listen
GPRS Transmit
has been
successful
GPRS Transmit
has not been
successful
Greater than 300
seconds requesting
activation? No
Yes
Attempt to connect
to configured
socket on gateway
Wait 15 s
No
GPRS Transmit
has not been
successful
Greater than 3
attempts connecting
to gateway?
Yes
No
No
Communicate with
Gateway
If GPRS attach is
not present,
request GPRS
attach