82-P9008-Rev2-EN - 02.11.2015

82-P9008
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
DATALOG 8
Instruction Manual
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Conventions and terminology .............................................................................................. 3
1.2 Symbols used ....................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 Safety information ............................................................................................................... 7
1.4 CE Declaration .................................................................................................................. 12
1.5 Main features .................................................................................................................... 14
1.6 Hardware specifications .................................................................................................... 16
1.7 Identification plate ............................................................................................................ 19
1.8 Unpacking and inspection ................................................................................................. 21
1.9 Electrical requirements ..................................................................................................... 23
2. DATALOG 8 OPERATOR INTERFACE 25

2.1.1 Info ................................................................................................................................ 25
2.1.2 Calibration ..................................................................................................................... 27
2.2 Main Menu ........................................................................................................................ 29
2.2.1 Transducer display screen ............................................................................................. 31
2.2.2 Start/End conditions screen ........................................................................................... 35
2.2.3 Graph screen .................................................................................................................. 40
2.3 Options .............................................................................................................................. 43
2.3.1 Calibration screen .......................................................................................................... 45
2.4 Icons appearing in the manual ............................................................................................. 2
2.5 Manual revision history ....................................................................................................... 4
2.6 Intended and proper use ....................................................................................................... 6
2.7 Environmental risks and disposal ...................................................................................... 11
3. DESCRIPTION 13
3.1 Technical specifications .................................................................................................... 15
3.2 Connection and control ..................................................................................................... 17
4. INSTALLATION AND SETUP 20

4.1 Placement of the system .................................................................................................... 22
4.2 Installing the DATALOG 8 .............................................................................................. 24
4.3 Firmware maps ................................................................................................................. 25
4.3.1 Options .......................................................................................................................... 26
4.3.2 Test run ......................................................................................................................... 28
4.4 Test Run ............................................................................................................................ 30
4.4.1 Logging mode screen .................................................................................................... 33
4.4.2 Channel settings screen ................................................................................................. 37
4.4.3 Data table screen ........................................................................................................... 42
4.5 Calibration ........................................................................................................................ 44
4.5.1 Hardware settings screen ............................................................................................... 47
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4.6 Title bar .............................................................................................................................51
5. DATACOMM 2 SOFTWARE 53
5.1 Computer specifications ....................................................................................................54
5.1.1 Energy saving settings ................................................................................................... 58
5.2 Installing the software .......................................................................................................62
5.3 Main panel ........................................................................................................................64
5.3.1 Connection status ........................................................................................................... 65
5.4 Group management panel .................................................................................................66
5.4.1 Group name and colour ................................................................................................. 67
5.4.2 Logger channels ............................................................................................................. 67
5.5 Channel management panel ..............................................................................................69
5.5.1 Connected Datalog ........................................................................................................ 70
5.5.2 Status bar ....................................................................................................................... 70
5.5.3 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 71
5.5.4 Hardware settings .......................................................................................................... 72
5.5.5 Calibration data ............................................................................................................. 72
5.5.6 Transducer readings ....................................................................................................... 73
5.5.7 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 74
5.5.8 Input levels .................................................................................................................... 74
5.6 Test setup panel .................................................................................................................76
5.6.1 Time base ...................................................................................................................... 77
5.6.2 Start conditions .............................................................................................................. 78
5.6.3 Start test button .............................................................................................................. 81
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5.6.4 Travel limits .................................................................................................................. 82
5.6.5 Zero buttons .................................................................................................................. 84
5.6.6 Transducer display ........................................................................................................ 85
5.6.7 Stop test button .............................................................................................................. 85
5.7 Graph panel ....................................................................................................................... 87
5.7.1 Graph ............................................................................................................................ 87
5.7.2 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 89
5.8 Review panel ..................................................................................................................... 91
6. USING THE DATALOG 8 92

6.1 Managing system options ................................................................................................. 95
6.1.1 Changing the display language ...................................................................................... 96
6.1.2 USB memory stick management ................................................................................... 99
6.1.3 Editing the hardware settings ...................................................................................... 101
6.1.4 Using a displacement transducer to measure strain ..................................................... 104
6.1.5 Performing a calibration .............................................................................................. 107
6.2 Switching the unit off ...................................................................................................... 113
6.3 Running the software ...................................................................................................... 115
6.3.1 Changing the display language .................................................................................... 116
6.4 Configuring the units ...................................................................................................... 117
6.4.1 Editing the hardware settings ...................................................................................... 119
6.4.2 Loading a previous calibration .................................................................................... 123
6.4.3 Adding a new group .................................................................................................... 124
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6.4.4 Deleting an existing group ........................................................................................... 125

6.4.5 Editing an existing group ............................................................................................. 126
6.5 Setting up transducers .....................................................................................................127
6.5.1 Setting transducer limits .............................................................................................. 127
6.5.2 Using a displacement transducer to measure strain ...................................................... 129
6.5.3 Using strain gauges ...................................................................................................... 130
6.6 Running a test .................................................................................................................131
6.7 Reviewing a previous test ...............................................................................................135
6.8 Closing the software ........................................................................................................136
7. MAINTENANCE 137
7.1 Operator’s preventive maintenance .................................................................................139
8. DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING 140

8.1 Diagnostics ......................................................................................................................141
8.2 Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................142
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8.3 Info ................................................................................................................................... 50

8.4 Keyboard .......................................................................................................................... 52
8.5 Description ....................................................................................................................... 53
8.5.1 IP Address settings ........................................................................................................ 55
8.5.2 User account control settings ......................................................................................... 60
8.5.3 Loading factory calibration files .................................................................................... 63
8.5.4 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 64
8.5.5 Group list ....................................................................................................................... 65
8.5.6 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 66
8.5.7 Existing groups .............................................................................................................. 67
8.5.8 Status bar ....................................................................................................................... 68
8.5.9 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 69
8.5.10 Channel info table .......................................................................................................... 70
8.6 Calibration panel .............................................................................................................. 71
8.6.1 Channel number ............................................................................................................. 72
8.6.2 Transducer details .......................................................................................................... 72
8.6.3 Calibration graph ........................................................................................................... 73
8.7 Hardware settings panel ................................................................................................... 74
8.7.1 Transducer readings ....................................................................................................... 74
8.7.2 Excitation voltage .......................................................................................................... 75
8.7.3 Transducer display ......................................................................................................... 76
8.7.4 Acquisition mode ........................................................................................................... 77
8.7.5 Stop conditions .............................................................................................................. 79
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8.8 Channel settings panel ...................................................................................................... 82
8.8.1 Strain configuration ....................................................................................................... 83
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8.9 Test control panel .............................................................................................................. 85
8.9.1 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 85
8.9.2 Elapsed time .................................................................................................................. 86
8.9.3 Toolbar .......................................................................................................................... 87
8.10 Data table panel ................................................................................................................ 89
8.10.1 Table ............................................................................................................................. 89
8.10.2 Toolbars ........................................................................................................................ 91
8.11 Switching the unit on ........................................................................................................ 93
8.11.1 Changing the date and time ........................................................................................... 95
8.11.2 Setting the IP address .................................................................................................... 97
8.12 Setting up transducers ..................................................................................................... 101
8.12.1 Setting transducer limits .............................................................................................. 103
8.12.2 Using strain gauges ..................................................................................................... 105
8.13 Logging data ................................................................................................................... 109
9. USING THE DATACOMM 2 SOFTWARE 114

9.1 Managing system options ............................................................................................... 116
9.1.1 Changing the password ................................................................................................ 116
9.1.2 Changing the IP address .............................................................................................. 117
9.1.3 Performing a calibration .............................................................................................. 120
9.2 Managing transducer groups ........................................................................................... 124
This instruction manual is an integral part of the machine and should be read before using the machine and be
safely kept for future reference.
CONTROLS reserves all rights of this manual; no part or whole can be copied without the written permission of
CONTROLS.
The proper use of this machine must be strictly adhered to, any other use must be considered as incorrect.
The manufacturer cannot be held responsible for damage caused by incorrect use of the machine.
The machine must not be tampered with for any reason. In case of tampering, the manufacturer declines any
responsibility for the functioning and safety of the machine.
This manual is published by CONTROLS.
CONTROLS reserves the right to update its manuals without notification in order to correct possible typing errors,
mistakes, updating of information and/or updating of programs and/or accessories.
Such changes will be inserted in the latest edition of the manual.
This manual in English is the original version. Printed in Italy.

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Instruction Manual
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1. INTRODUCTION
The DATALOG 8 is an eight channel multipurpose data logger that can be used for a wide
variety of laboratory and site applications. Measurements for up to eight transducers are
simultaneously recorded in real time and displayed on the large colour touchscreen display.
Transducer calibrations, language selection and data acquisition are all managed from the user-
friendly icon-based touchscreen interface. Data are stored on a USB memory stick connected
to the unit.
The DATACOMM 2 (82-P9008/SOF) is optional data acquisition software that can be used
to run the DATALOG 8 unit from a PC. Up to eight units can be connected to one PC, using
a high-speed LAN hub, to create a modular system with up to 64 channels. From the software,
transducers can be organized into groups by the operator for independent acquisition and
management of different tests. Test data is stored directly on the PC in ASCII format and can
be loaded back into the software for reviewing.
This manual is arranged in the following way:

Sections 1 and 2 contain information about the manual itself, environmental and safety aspects,
and descriptions and specifications for the DATALOG 8;
Section 3 contains installation and setup information for the DATALOG 8;
Section 4 describes the features and functions of the DATALOG 8 user interface;
Section 5 describes the installation procedures, features and functions of the optional
DATACOMM 2 software;
Section 6 describes how to operate the DATALOG 8 using the touchscreen, with step-by-step
instructions for the most common procedures;
Section 7 describes how to operate the DATALOG 8 using the DATACOMM 2 software, with
step-by-step instructions for the most common procedures;
Sections 8 and 9 contain required maintenance actions and troubleshooting suggestions.

NOTE:
The present manual is updated for the product it is sold with in order to grant an
adequate reference for operating and maintaining the equipment.
The manual may not reflect any changes to the product that don’t impact service
operations.
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1.1 Icons appearing in the manual
This icon indicates a NOTE; please read the items marked by this icon
carefully.
This icon indicates a WARNING; the items marked with this icon contain
safety information for the operator and/or service engineer.
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1.2 Conventions and terminology
The following conventions are used throughout the manual:

THIS FONT is used for the main numbered components of the firmware and software.
All other components are written in this font.
Values that can be selected or entered in cells are written in bold.
In this manual the term ‘USB memory stick’ refers to the portable data storage device that
connects to the USB socket of the DATALOG 8 unit. It may also be known as a ‘USB pen
drive’, ‘USB flash drive’ etc.
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1.3 Manual revision history
Revision / Date Change description

Software / Firmware version
Rev. 1 / August 6th 2015 First manual release.
SW v2.2.2 / FW v1.11
Rev. 2 / November 2nd 2015 Fig. 5-2 in section 5.2.1 corrected.
SW v2.2.2 / FW v1.11
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1.4 Symbols used
In this manual and on the equipment itself the following icons are used:
Symbol Description
Dangerous voltage
Conformity to CE directives
Power switch:
0 = device not connected to the mains line
I = device connected to the mains line
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1.5 Intended and proper use
The DATALOG 8 is designed to operate via a built-in touchscreen or with the DATACOMM
2 PC software.
During normal operation, the working area is the front of the unit. The rear panel of the unit
has sockets for connecting the power, the USB memory stick and the transducers. They are
normally connected during the installation phase (section 3.4).
The operator is responsible for switching on the equipment, performing the test sequence,
stopping the equipment in case emergency conditions are met, and switching off the
equipment.
The operator must be trained in the correct use of the equipment and the relative safety aspects
of its use.
The equipment should only be used as described in this manual.
The equipment must never be used for purposes other than those for which it was designed
and manufactured. Any other use of the equipment may carry unforeseen safety risks and
must therefore be considered improper and potentially dangerous.
CONTROLS will not be held responsible for damage or injury resulting from improper use of
the equipment.
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1.6 Safety information
WARNING:
Read this section thoroughly.
CONTROLS designs and builds its equipment in compliance with the relevant safety
requirements; furthermore it supplies all information necessary to use the equipment correctly
and all warnings relating to use of the equipment.
CONTROLS will not be held responsible for:

 Use of the equipment other than the intended use;
 Damage to the equipment and/or the operator caused by either installation or maintenance
procedures other than those described in this manual, or by inappropriate or incorrect use;
 Mechanical and/or electrical modifications to the equipment performed during or after
installation, other than those described in this manual.
The equipment is not designed to be used in an explosive atmosphere.
Installation and any technical intervention must only be performed by qualified technical
personnel authorised by CONTROLS.
Only authorised technical personnel can remove covers and/or have access to components
under voltage.
If the operator detects irregularities or damage during normal use, he/she should immediately
inform an authorised technical person.
Maintenance and service activities can only be performed by authorised technical personnel
who have been properly trained and advised of the residual risks of the equipment.
It is the responsibility of the purchaser to make sure that personnel operating the equipment
have been properly instructed on all safety issues and residual risks related to the equipment.
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The following table lists those parts of the equipment that may present some residual risks to
the safety of personnel if the instructions given in this manual, and any other manuals provided
with the equipment, are not followed.
Personnel Area with residual risks

Operator All electrical components must be protected against possible
water spillages to prevent the associated dangers.
With covers removed from electrical components, areas with
high voltage are present.
For continued fire protection:
Fuses of electrical components must be replaced with those
of the same type and rating;
Where equipment is found to be faulty, parts must only be
replaced with original spares;
It is the responsibilty of the purchaser to ensure that fire
prevention policies are properly implemented according to
CE provisions.
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Below is a list of all the warnings present in this manual.
WARNING:
All safety devices must be functional at all times. Damaged protective covers or
devices must be replaced immediately. When safety components are replaced,
the protective devices must be properly attached and tested. Any manipulation
of the safety devices endangers the operating personnel.
WARNING:
Improper use of testing systems can cause injury to personnel and/or damage to
equipment. Any use of the equipment other than that described in the relevant
instruction manuals will void the warranty terms of the equipment.
WARNING:
If the equipment is brought from a cold environment into a heated room,
condensation on and inside electrical items can constitute a danger and lead to
malfunctioning of the items when started. Wait until the equipment is at room
temperature before connecting and operating it.
WARNING:
The general grounding must comply with local rules; incompatible grounding
quality could be dangerous for the operator’s safety and cause electrical
components to malfunction.
WARNING:
Covers can only be removed by authorised technical personnel, using the relevant
tools. After performing maintenance/repair, make sure that all covers are
properly replaced and secured.
WARNING:
Before opening/removing covers, disconnect the mains supply to the device and
wait at least 1 minute.
WARNING:
Avoid spilling water or other liquids, even accidentally, onto electrical
equipment, as this could cause short circuits. Before cleaning the equipment,
disconnect it from the mains power.
WARNING:
For continued fire protection, replace fuses with same type and rating. Also, in
case of failure, components may only be replaced by using original spare parts. It
is the responsibility of the purchaser to insure that fire prevention policies are
properly implemented according to CE directives.
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WARNING:
The power switch, located next to the power supply socket, must be in the off
(“0”) position before connecting the power cable to the electricity supply.
WARNING:
Failing to perform the recommended maintenance actions or maintenance
performed by unauthorized people can void the warranty.
CONTROLS will not be responsible for maintenance and service actions
performed by unauthorized people.
WARNING:
When operating with the covers open/removed and the unit attached to the mains
power, care must be taken as high voltage is present in some parts of the unit.
Only authorized and qualified service technicians are allowed to open/remove
covers.
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1.7 Environmental risks and disposal
INFORMATION FOR THE OWNER OF THE EQUIPMENT
The above symbol, when attached to the equipment or to the relevant packaging, indicates that
the product must be disposed of separately from other rubbish at the end of its useful life.
Therefore, when disposing of the product, the owner should do so at a suitable collection point
for electrical and electronic products provided by the local authorities.
The correct disposal of this product and the subsequent treatment encourages the manufacture
of products using recycled materials and limits the environmental impact of the product caused
by improper disposal.
Improper disposal of the product is subject to penalties as foreseen by the local regulations.
Please refer to the local laws and regulations for proper disposal of the product.
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1.8 CE Declaration
This page shows a copy of the CE declaration. The original is supplied with the equipment.
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2. DESCRIPTION
The main components of the DATALOG 8 unit are identified below. The figure shows the
unit viewed from the back.
5
4
3
Fig. 2-1
Ref. Description
1 Touchscreen display
2 Power socket with fuse and on/off switch
3 USB socket for connecting USB memory stick
4 LAN socket for connection to PC (optional)
5 Mini-DIN sockets for connecting transducers
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2.1 Main features
 Adjustable 5.7” touchscreen colour graphic display

 8 independent input channels
 Numerical and graphical display of readings
 Compatible with load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, LDT / LVDT /
potentiometric displacement transducers
 Effective resolution of 131,000 points
 Sampling rate of up to 500 readings/second per channel via LAN and up to 10
readings/second per channel in local mode
 Can be used on site, powered by a portable independent power supply (e.g. 82-P9008/BAT)
or by a car battery using connector kit 82-P9008/BAT1
 Large data storage capacity with USB memory stick (supplied)
 Programmable logging modes
 Simultaneous data sampling of all channels according to the selected logging mode
 Can be controlled by dedicated PC software (optional) via LAN / Ethernet connection
 Up to 8 units can work in a network creating a modular system with up to 64 independent
channels (only available when using the PC software)
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2.2 Technical specifications
 Power supply: 110-230 V, 50-60 Hz, 1 ph

 Number of channels: 8
 Sampling rate: up to 10 readings/second per channel via USB, up to 500 readings/second
per channel via LAN
 Effective resolution: 131,000 points
 Communication port: LAN / Ethernet
 PC connection: optional
 Excitation voltage (VEXC): from 1 V to 10 V for each pair of channels (up to 4)
 Network mode: up to 8 units
 Datalogger input: 0-10 V; 0-20 mA
 Software: optional, DATACOMM 2 (82-P9008/SOF)
 Calibration: individual hardware calibrations of all channels managed by the firmware
 Dimensions: L290 x D195 x H100 mm (with screen fully raised and supplied USB memory
stick connected: L290 x D250 x H241 mm)
 Weight: 2.5 kg
Note: all dimensions and weights are approximate.
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2.3 Hardware specifications
General features
Name DATALOG 8
Manufacturer CONTROLS, Liscate (MI) Italy
Product code 82-P9008
Rated line voltage 110-230 VAC
Line frequency 50-60 Hz
Number of phases Mono
Maximum current 300 mA @ 230 VAC
Method of power entry Line cable and plug
Weight 2.5 kg
Height 100 mm (241 mm with display fully raised)
Length 290 mm
Depth 195 mm (250 mm with supplied USB connected)
Note: all dimensions and weights are approximate.
Environmental features
Operating temperature range +15 to +40 ºC
Operating relative humidity
(RH) <50 % RH @ 40 ºC
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2.4 Connection and control
The following connections are located at the back of the unit:

 1 no. power socket for connection to power supply
 1 no. USB socket for connection of a USB memory stick to store test data
 1 no. LAN socket for connection to a PC with DATACOMM 2 software (optional)
 8 no. Mini-DIN sockets for connecting measurement transducers
The power switch is located at the back of the unit, above the power socket (Fig. 2-2).
Fig. 2-2
The channel numbers used in the firmware of the unit correspond to the Mini-DIN sockets as
shown in Fig. 2-3 below.
2 4 6 8
1 3 5 7
Fig. 2-3
Transducers with a Lumberg plug are connected to the Mini-DIN sockets using adaptor cables
such as P9008/ELT (pack of 4). Table 2-1 shows how the pins of the two different types of
connector must be wired.
Full control of the unit is achieved using the touchscreen display mounted on the base.
Alternatively, the unit can be controlled using the DATACOMM 2 software (82-P9008/SOF).
Note: when used with the DATACOMM 2 software, up to eight units can be connected to one
PC using an Ethernet switch (e.g. 26-WF4645). When more than one unit is connected to the
PC, the channel numbers are assigned in the software according to the IP address of each
unit, with the first unit having channel numbers 1 to 8, the second unit numbers 9 to 16 and so
on. The IP addresses are assigned in the firmware of each unit. See sections 3.4 and 6.2.3.
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Lumberg Mini-DIN
Pin number Pin number Description

1 4 + V Excitation
2 3 + Signal
3 5 - V Excitation
4 2 - Signal
5 - Not connected
6 - Shield
Table 2-1
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2.5 Identification plate
Identification plates with the model number and a unique serial number can be found attached
to the unit, near the power supply socket. An example is shown below.
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3. INSTALLATION AND SETUP

The instructions given in this chapter describe how to install and connect the DATALOG 8
unit correctly in order that it can be operated normally. Initial inspection procedures, power
requirements and instructions for installing the unit are included.
The information in this chapter is intended for service-trained personnel.
The supplier of the unit can provide the assistance and the necessary technical advice for pre-
installation; all the pre-installation phases are at the purchaser’s cost and must be performed
in compliance with the indications given below.
WARNING:
WARNING:
WARNING:
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3.1 Unpacking and inspection
The unit was carefully checked both mechanically and electrically before shipment; it should
be inspected for any damage that may have occurred in transit.
NOTE:
If the shipping container or packaging material is damaged, it should be kept until
the unit has been mechanically and electrically checked.
If there is mechanical damage and/or the contents are incomplete, please notify
the local CONTROLS representative.
If the shipping container is damaged or shows sign of stress, notify the carrier as
well as the CONTROLS representative. Save the shipping material for carrier’s
inspection and, if possible, take some pictures.
WARNING:
Unpack all the components; make sure that you have each item and check that they are in good
condition.
The DATALOG 8 comprises:

 1 no. DATALOG unit
 (optional) a CD with the software (and transducer calibration files, if applicable)
 1 no. USB memory stick*
 1 no. LAN cable*
 1 no. power cable*
 1 no. touchscreen stylus*
* these items are pictured in Fig. 3-1 below.
Fig. 3-1
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3.2 Placement of the system
The DATALOG 8 unit should be positioned in a convenient location, so that the transducers
and USB memory stick can be easily connected, and the power switch can be easily accessed.
The area around the unit must be kept free from obstacles and from substances that may cause
personnel to slip or trip.
It is the responsibility of the purchaser to provide an installation place with adequate lighting.
The unit requires adequate air circulation around it to assure proper cooling of the internal
devices.
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3.3 Electrical requirements
The table below shows the electrical specifications of the DATALOG 8 unit.
Description European specifications

Single phase voltage 110-230 VAC
Frequency 50-60 Hz
Maximum current 300 mA @ 230 VAC
The equipment shall be connected to a proper earthing system, the efficiency of which shall
be checked by qualified personnel. Earthing shall be via the power cable, as specified above.
WARNING:
The power supply line shall be equipped with a safety device (breaker and ground fault switch)
of an appropriate capacity in respect to the electrical specifications provided above.
The unit is self-protected by fuses. In case of overload, the fuse disconnects the unit
automatically from the mains line. The fuse is located at the back of the unit, near the mains
power socket (Fig. 3-2).
Fig. 3-2
WARNING:
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3.4 Installing the DATALOG 8
WARNING:
The power switch, located next to the power supply socket, must be in the off
(“0”) position before connecting the power cable to the electricity supply.
1. Plug the power cable provided into the unit’s power supply socket (Fig. 3-3) and then
connect the cable to the electricity supply.
Fig. 3-3
2. If you are using the DATACOMM 2 software to control the unit, connect the LAN cable
provided to the LAN socket located at the back of the unit. If you are using only one unit,
connect the other end of the cable to the LAN socket of the PC. If you are connecting
more than one unit to the PC, connect the other end of the cable to an Ethernet switch (e.g.
26-WF4645). The switch should be connected to the PC according to the manufacturers
instructions.
3. If the transducers were calibrated in the factory, they will be labelled with the serial
number of the unit and the channel number they were plugged into when calibrated. Plug
each transducer into the Mini-DIN sockets at the back of the unit that corresponds to the
label. Refer to Fig. 2-3 on page 17 for the channel configuration. Adaptor cables (e.g.
P9008/ELT) are required to connect transducers with Lumberg plugs.
Note: the channels are grouped into pairs with respect to the excitation voltage (VEXC).
Transducers requiring the same VEXC should be therefore be connected to same pair of
channels (1 & 2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8). If a load cell with a VEXC of 9 V is connected to a
paired channel with a displacement transducer with a VEXC of 10 V, both channels will
default to the lower value of 9 V. See sections 4.5.2 and 6.3.1 for more details.
4. Any transducers that were not calibrated in the factory before shipping must not be
connected until the hardware settings have been checked. Before plugging in the
transducers, follow section 6.1 (Switching the unit on) and section 6.3.1 (Editing the
hardware settings). Then switch the unit off (section 6.5) and plug the transducers into the
appropriate channels.

NOTE:
Switching on the DATALOG 8 unit with incorrect hardware settings for the
connected transducers may cause equipment damage. CONTROLS will not be
held responsible for damage caused to equipment due to incorrect hardware
settings.
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4. DATALOG 8 OPERATOR INTERFACE

This section describes the different functions of the touchscreen interface that is used to control
the DATALOG 8 unit in stand-alone mode. For a quick navigation guide, see the firmware
maps in 4.1 below. Instructions for operating the unit using the touchscreen are given in
section 6.
The
NOTE:
touchscreen interface is locked when the unit is connected to a PC running
the optional DATACOMM 2 software. Full control of the unit is via the software.

NOTE:
The touchscreen should be operated using the stylus provided. Hitting the
touchscreen heavily may damage it. Never use a pen or a sharp object as damage
to the equipment may result. The warranty will be void if the screen is damaged
due to improper use.
4.1 Firmware maps

4.1.1 1 Info
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4.1.2 2 Options
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4.1.3 3 Calib ra tion
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4.1.4 4 Tes t run
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4.2 Main Menu

The MAIN MENU (Fig. 4-1) is shown when the unit is switched on and can be returned to by
closing other panels.
Fig. 4-1
From the MAIN MENU, four options can be selected:
 Test run - to select logging intervals and test start/stop conditions, zero readings and run a
test (see sections 4.3 and 6.4)
 Calibration - to configure the hardware settings of the transducer channels (excitation
voltage and input level) and perform calibrations (see sections 4.5, 6.3.1 and 6.3.5)
 Options - to set the date and time and IP address of the unit, to change the display language
and to manage the USB memory stick (see sections 4.4 and 6.2)
 @info - to view CONTROLS company information, firmware version number, the serial
number of the unit, and IP address and subnet mask for PC connection (see section 4.6)
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4.3 Test Run

Selecting the Test run icon from the MAIN MENU opens the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN (Fig. 4-2 & 4.3.1). From this screen, the logging mode can be
selected (4.3.2), the start and end conditions can be set (4.3.3), limits for each transducer can
be entered (4.3.4), and a test can be started.
Fig. 4-2
Fig. 4-3
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4.3.1 1 Transdu cer displa y screen

The following buttons are available at the bottom of the screen before logging is started (Fig.
4-2):
 START - for starting data logging.
Note: all enabled channels are logged simultaneously at the selected intervals (see below).
Channels can be enabled / disabled in the CHANNEL SETTINGS SCREEN (4.3.4).
 LOGGING INTV - for opening the LOGGING MODE SCREEN (4.3.2) where the data
logging intervals can be managed.
 FILENAME - for entering a filename for the logged data.
Note: data will only be saved if a USB memory stick is plugged into the unit. Data are
stored in a tab-separated .txt file.
Note: the filename can be up to 8 characters long and must not contain any spaces.
These buttons are available at the bottom of the screen after logging is started (Fig. 4-3):
 STOP - for stopping data logging.
 MANUAL LOG - for adding the current readings to the data file. (The row is marked as a
user log in the note column of the file.)
 VIEW GRAPH - for opening the GRAPH SCREEN (4.3.5) where logged data for any channel
can be plotted, and from where tabulated data can be viewed.
The following are displayed for each of the unit’s enabled channels (see Fig. 4-4):
Ref. Description
1 Channel number
2 Live transducer reading
Note: the decimal places and measurement units are set in the CALIBRATION
SCREEN (4.5.1).
Note: when the reading is within the upper and lower limits during logging, the
background of the cell is green; if the reading goes out of this range the
background turns red. Tapping the reading before logging starts opens the
CHANNEL SETTINGS SCREEN (4.3.4) where the limits are set.
3 Minimum and maximum travel
Note: these values indicate the highest and lowest live readings reached by the
transducer. They are only updated during logging.
4 RESET button, for resetting the minimum and maximum travel values to zero
5 ZERO button, for setting the transducer reading to zero
Note: this button is only available before data logging starts. If a zero offset is
applied, the transducer readings will be relative to this offset.
4
1
2 5
Fig. 4-4
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Closing the screen returns to the MAIN MENU.

Note: the screen can’t be closed while data is logging.
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4.3.2 2 Logging mode s creen

This screen (Fig. 4-5) is for setting the logging intervals for data acquisition.
To view the screen, select the LOGGING INTV button at the bottom of the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN before logging is started (see 4.3.1 & Fig. 4-2).
Fig. 4-5
The logging mode is selected by tapping the button next to the required option; the button
turns blue when the mode is selected. One option may be selected from the following:
 Linear mode - select this mode to log readings at regular intervals. The adjacent cell is for
entering the interval in seconds.
For example: entering an interval of 1.00 (as shown in Fig. 4-5) gives readings at elapsed
times of 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 seconds and so on...
 Polynomial mode - this mode uses the formula A x reading numberB to calculate logging
intervals in seconds, where A is the value entered in the first (left) adjacent cell and B is
the value in the second (right) cell.
For example: using A = 15.0 & B = 2.0 (as shown in Fig. 4-5) gives readings at elapsed
times of 0.25, 1, 2.25, 4, 6.25, 9, 12.25, 16 minutes and so on… which is suitable for a
BS1377 isotropic consolidation stage.
 Exponential mode - this mode uses the formula A x Breading number to calculate logging
intervals in seconds, where A is the value entered in the first (left) adjacent cell and B is
the value in the second (right) cell.
For example: using A = 3.6 & B = 2.0 (as shown in Fig. 4-5) gives readings at elapsed
times of 0.12, 0.24, 0.48, 0.96, 1.92, 3.84, 7.68, 15.36 minutes and so on… which is suitable
for an ASTM oedometer consolidation.
Note: the numbers can be changed by tapping the number and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
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 Intervals table - select this mode to log readings at intervals programmed by the operator.
The intervals are entered in a table which is opened by selecting the text “Intervals table”.
See Fig. 4-6.
Note: to change the time intervals, tap the value and enter a number (in seconds) using the
KEYBOARD. The values are automatically saved when the screen is closed. Reading numbers
with a time interval of 00000 will not be logged.
Note: a start reading is automatically recorded at zero minutes.
Fig. 4-6
X-axis Scale is for setting the maximum scale of the x axis of the graph (see 4.3.5). The scale
can be changed by tapping on the text (Fig. 4-7) until the required value is shown: the options
are 1 min, 5 mins, 15 mins, 30 mins, 1 hour, 6 hours and 24 hours.
Fig. 4-7
The Conditions button opens the START/END CONDITIONS SCREEN (4.3.3).
Closing the screen returns to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN (any changes
are saved automatically).
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4.3.3 3 Sta rt/End condition s s creen

This screen (Fig. 4-8) is for setting the conditions that the unit will use to decide if and when
to start and stop logging.
To view the screen, select the LOGGING INTV button at the bottom of the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN to open the LOGGING MODE SCREEN and then select the Conditions
button (see 4.3.2 & Fig. 4-5).
Fig. 4-8
The conditions are selected by tapping the button next to the required option(s); the button
turns blue when the condition is selected.
Any of the following START conditions can be selected:

 Initial delay - select this option to delay the start of logging. The adjacent cell is for entering
the required time delay, in minutes.
 Reading threshold - select this option to start logging when the reading of the designated
transducer reaches a certain value. The adjacent cell is for selecting the transducer channel
number and entering the threshold value in measurement units. To change the channel,
keep tapping the channel number until the required one is shown.
 Start time - this option can be selected if you want to start logging at a specific time of day
(corresponding to the unit’s internal clock). The adjacent cell is for entering the time, in
hh:mm:ss.
Note: the values can be changed by tapping the number and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
If more than one option is selected, logging will start when one of the conditions becomes true,
whichever one occurs first. If none of them is selected, logging will start as soon as the START
button on the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN is tapped.
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Any of the following END conditions can be selected:

 Maximum time - select this option to stop logging after a certain amount of time has
elapsed. The adjacent cell is for entering the required time, in minutes.
 Logged data limit - select this option to stop logging when a set number of readings have
been recorded. The adjacent cell is for entering the number of readings.
 Reading threshold - select this option to stop logging when the reading of the designated
transducer reaches a certain value. The adjacent cell is for selecting the transducer channel
number and entering the threshold value in measurement units. To change the channel,
keep tapping the channel number until the required one is shown.
 End time - this option can be selected if you want logging to stop at a specific time of day
(corresponding to the unit’s internal clock). The adjacent cell is for entering the time, in
hh:mm:ss.
Note: the values can be changed by tapping the number and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
If more than one option is selected, logging will stop when one of the conditions becomes true,
whichever one occurs first. If none of them is selected, logging will continue until the STOP
button on the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN is tapped.
Closing the screen returns to the LOGGING MODE SCREEN (any changes are saved
automatically).
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4.3.4 4 Channel s ettin gs s creen

This screen (Fig. 4-9) is for enabling/disabling a channel, setting travel limits and entering
gauge settings.
To view the screen, tap on the transducer reading of the required channel on the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN (see #2 on Fig. 4-4 (Page 31)).
Note: to access the screen you must enter the passcode ‘00101’. This prevents data being
changed accidentally.
Note: the selected channel number is shown in the TITLE BAR.
Fig. 4-9
The following settings are available for all channels:
 Channel enabled - when the adjacent button is coloured blue the channel is enabled and
will be logged. When the button is black the channel is disabled and no data will be logged.
The status can be changed by tapping the button.
 Upper limit - this is for setting an upper (maximum) travel limit for the transducer.
 Lower limit - this is for setting a lower (minimum) travel limit for the transducer.
Note: when a limit is exceeded during logging, the background of the transducer reading
on the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN turns red to alert the operator, who can then
take the appropriate action. The travel limits or capacity of a transducer can be found on
the manufacturer’s documentation. The values can be changed by tapping the number and
entering a new value using the KEYBOARD.

NOTE:
Allowing a transducer to exceed its capacity can cause damage to the equipment
or give unreliable readings.
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 Strain calc. enable - when the adjacent button is coloured blue the strain calculation is
enabled: the input for Base length is displayed (see below) and, on the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN, the units of the channel reading will be microstrain. The status can
be changed by tapping the button.
 Base length - this field is only displayed if Strain calc. enable is on and is for entering the
distance over which the strain is being measured. This could be the distance between the
centres of the mounting points (see Fig. 4-10) or the length of the gauge, depending on how
the gauge/transducer is attached to the sample. The value is used to calculate sample
deformation in microstrain ():
∆�
𝜇�= 𝜀× 10−6 = × 10−6
�0
where:
L is the measured deformation;
L0 is the base length.
The value can be changed by tapping the number and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.

NOTE:
The base length must be measured in the same units as the transducer connected
to the channel is measuring. For example, if the transducer is calibrated to
measure mm, the base length must be entered in mm.
Sample Base
length
Fig. 4-10
These additional settings relate to strain gauges and are available only when uV is selected for
the input level in the HARDWARE SETTINGS SCREEN (4.5.2) (see Fig. 4-11):
 Gauge factor K - this is for entering the factor for converting the change in gauge resistance
into a strain value. This value should be provided by the manufacturer. The value can be
changed by tapping the number and entering a new value using the KEYBOARD.
 Bridge - this is for specifying the configuration of the Wheatstone bridge compensation
device (82-P0398). Tap the value to toggle between ½ and ¼.
 Voltage VEXC - this displays the voltage excitation set in the HARDWARE SETTINGS
SCREEN (4.5.2).
Closing the screen returns to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN (any changes
are saved automatically).
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Fig. 4-11
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4.3.5 5 Graph screen

This screen (Fig. 4-12) plots logged data for the enabled channels on a graph with time as
abscissa (x values). The graph is updated each time a new reading is recorded.
To view the screen, select the VIEW GRAPH button at the bottom of the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY SCREEN after logging is started (see 4.3.1 & Fig. 4-3).
Fig. 4-12
One channel at a time is plotted on the graph. The channel is selected by tapping the coloured
channel number buttons on the far left of the screen; the selected channel number is displayed
at the top left of the screen.
The x-axis scale is set in the LOGGING MODE SCREEN (4.3.2) before logging is started. If
the logging time exceeds the scale, another graph will be created with the x-axis scale starting
where the previous one ended. Data plotting will continue on the new graph, with the process
repeated each time the maximum scale is reached. The graph page number is indicated in the
top right corner of the graph (e.g. #001 is page 1). Previous graph pages can be displayed by
tapping the screen in the areas marked in red on Fig. 4-13.
The following buttons are available at the bottom of the screen:

 STOP - for stopping data logging.
 MANUAL LOG - for adding the current readings to the data file. (The row is marked as a
user log in the note column of the file.)
 VIEW DATA - for opening the DATA TABLE SCREEN (4.3.6) where tabulated logged data
for all enabled channels can be viewed.
Closing the screen returns to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN.
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◄ PREVIOUS NEXT ►
Fig. 4-13
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4.3.6 6 Da ta tabl e screen

This screen (Fig. 4-14) displays a table containing logged data.
To view the screen, select the VIEW DATA button at the bottom of the GRAPH SCREEN after
logging is started (see 4.3.5 & Fig. 4-12).
Fig. 4-14
The first (left) column displays elapsed time in days, hours, minutes and seconds; the other
columns display logged data for all the channels that are enabled (see 4.3.4). The measurement
units are shown at the top of each column; the channel numbers are at the bottom.
Note: to refresh the screen, close and re-open it. Disabled channels are shown as ******.
The arrow keys on the left of the screen are used to scroll up and down through the pages of
data; the page number is shown above the arrow keys.
Closing the screen returns to the GRAPH SCREEN.
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4.4 Options
Selecting the OPTIONS icon from the MAIN MENU opens the OPTIONS MENU (Fig.
4-15). The following settings can be managed from this menu:
 Date/Time - for changing the time and date of the unit’s internal clock.
 Language - for changing the display language.
 Network - for changing the unit’s IP address (only required when using the DATACOMM
2 software).
 USB Memory - for selecting what action to take if no USB memory stick is connected, and
for managing the contents of the USB memory stick.
See section 6.2 for more information and the procedures.
Fig. 4-15
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4.5 Calibration
Selecting the CALIBRATION icon from the MAIN MENU opens the CALIBRATION
MENU (Fig. 4-16). From this screen, calibrations can be viewed or performed for each
of the unit’s eight channels (by selecting the appropriate channel number button, see 4.5.1)
and the hardware settings of all the channels can be set (by selecting the Enter button, see
4.5.2).
Note: a passcode is required to edit the calibration data and hardware settings.
Fig. 4-16
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4.5.1 1 Calib ra tion s creen

This screen (Fig. 4-17) is for viewing and performing a calibration on the transducer connected
to the selected channel.
To view the screen, select the appropriate channel number button from the CALIBRATION
MENU (see 4.5 & Fig. 4-16).
Note: the selected channel number is shown in the TITLE BAR.
Note: to edit the data you must select the EDIT button and enter the passcode ‘00101’. This
prevents data being changed accidentally.
4.5.1.1
4.5.1.2
4.5.1.3
4.5.1.4
Fig. 4-17
 EDIT - for unlocking the sheet for editing.
 SAVE - this is shown after the sheet has been unlocked for editing and is for saving any
changes made to the data.
 RESET - this is shown after the sheet has been unlocked for editing and is for clearing the
data from the Calibration table. A message asks for confirmation.
4.5.1.1 Ha r dwa r e c o nf i gur a t i on
This area shows the input level and voltage excitation set for the channel. The values can’t be
edited here - they are taken from the HARDWARE SETTINGS SCREEN (4.5.2).
4.5.1.2 T r a ns duc e r de t a i l s
These fields are for entering the following information about the transducer:
 ID - a name for the transducer
 F.Scale - the full scale/capacity of the transducer
 Unit - the measurement units that the transducer is reading
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 DP - the number of decimal places for displaying the transducer readings (on all screens)
Note: the values can be changed by tapping the field and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
4.5.1.3 Ca l i br a t i on t a bl e
The table contains data for up to eight calibration points.
The first (left) column is for entering the reference values - the readings of the reference
equipment (e.g. micrometer, gauge blocks, pressure gauge) - in measurement units. The values
in this column can be changed by tapping the cell and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
The second (middle) column displays the reading in divisions (bits) that corresponds to the
reference reading. These values can’t be entered manually - they are captured by tapping the
icon in the corresponding row of the third (right) column.
4.5.1.4 Re a di n g
The two cells display the live reading in divisions (bits) and measurement units. The ZERO
button is for setting the reading in measurement units to zero.
Closing the screen returns to the CALIBRATION MENU (any unsaved changes will
be lost).
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4.5.2 2 Hardw a re s etting s s creen

This screen (Fig. 4-18) is for viewing and editing the voltage excitation and input levels of all
eight channels.
To view the screen, select the Enter button from the CALIBRATION MENU (see 4.5 & Fig.
4-16).
Note: to edit the data you must select the EDIT button and enter the passcode ‘00101’. This
prevents data being changed accidentally.
Fig. 4-18
 EDIT - for unlocking the sheet for editing.
 SAVE - this is shown after the sheet has been unlocked for editing and is for saving any
changes made to the settings.
In the DATALOG 8 unit, the channels are grouped into four pairs, with each pair having the
same voltage excitation. The following are displayed for each pair of channels (see Fig. 4-19):
Ref. Description
1 Channel readings in divisions
2 Channel numbers
3 Input level for the first channel
The input level can be changed by tapping on the value until the desired option is
shown. The options are: LOW (20 mV); HIGH (10 V); uV (20 mV, for strain
gauges); mA (0 - 20 mA, for 0-20 and 0-40 mA transducers). Reference should
be made to the documentation received with the transducer to ensure the
correction option is selected. See also Table 4-1 on page 49.
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4 Voltage excitation
This can be set to any value between 0.5 and 10 V DC. The correct value should
be written in the documentation received with the transducer. The adjacent plus
and minus buttons are used to change the value. See also Table 4-1 on page 49.
5 Input level for the second channel. See #3 above.
1 2 3 4 5
Fig. 4-19
Closing the screen returns to the CALIBRATION MENU (any unsaved changes will
be lost).
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The table below shows the hardware settings for some of the transducers most commonly
supplied by CONTROLS:
Transducer Capacity Product code Sensitivity Input level Voltage

type excitation
3.5 kN 28-WF0370/T
External LOW
to to 2 mV/V 9V
load cell (20 mV)
100 kN 28-WF0376/T
1 kN 28-WF6350
Submersible LOW
to to 2 mV/V 9V
load cell (20 mV)
25 kN 28-WF6356
1000 kPa 28-WF6300
Pressure LOW
to to 100 mV f.s. 2V
(ESI) (20 mV)
3500 kPa 28-WF6302
Pressure LOW
1000 kPa 28-WF6300 1.5 mV/V 10 V
(GEFRAN) (20mV)
Pressure 20 to 700 LOW
e.g. 82-P0700 3 mV/V 6V
(GEFRAN) bar (20 mV)
Potentiometric 10 mm 30-WF6207
HIGH
linear to to 1000 mV/V 10 V
(10 V)
displacement 100 mm 30-WF6210
82-P0390
uV
Foil strain gauge 20000 V to 2 mV/V 2V
(20 mV)
82-P0393
5 mm 82-P0340/5
LOW
LDT linear to to 2 mV/V 10 V
(20 mV)
100 mm 82-P0340/100
2 mm 82-P0331/A1
Amplified HIGH
to to 10 V f.s. 10 V
LVDT (10 V)
10 mm 82-P0331/C1
0 - 20 mA mA
Current output - - 10 V
4 - 20 mA (0 - 20 mA)
Table 4-1
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4.6 Info
Selecting the @info icon from the MAIN MENU displays a screen showing
CONTROLS company information, the firmware version number, and the IP address
and subnet mask for PC connection.
Fig. 4-20
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4.7 Title bar

The TITLE BAR runs along the top of each screen and contains:
 The screen title or, during logging, the status and test file name, if applicable
 The date and time according to the unit’s internal clock (this can be set in the OPTIONS -
see section 6.2)
 This icon is displayed if the unit has detected a USB memory stick connected
 This icon is displayed if the unit is connected to a PC via a LAN cable
Fig. 4-21
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4.8 Keyboard
This screen automatically appears whenever something needs to be typed in. If the field is a
text entry, the screen automatically displays a ‘qwerty’ keyboard (Fig. 4-22); if it requires a
number, a numerical keyboard is displayed. Some of the keys are explained below.
6 2
5 3
Fig. 4-22
Ref. Description
1 CURSOR buttons (for moving the cursor to where you want to type)
2 BACKSPACE key (for deleting characters)
3 ESC key (cancels the entry and closes the screen)
4 OK key (accepts the entry and closes the screen)
5 MODE key for switching between alphabet mode and numerical mode
6 SHIFT key (for typing in capitals)
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5. DATACOMM 2 SOFTWARE
This section is only relevant if you have the DATACOMM 2 software (82-P9008/SOF).
This section describes all the different screens, buttons and panels that comprise the software.
The procedure for installing the software is also given. Instructions for use are given in section
7.
5.1 Description
The DATACOMM 2 software is an optional program that can be installed on a PC and used
to control up to eight DATALOG 8 units connected to the PC via an Ethernet switch or one
DATALOG 8 unit connected directly to the PC. The software is used to control all the
functions of the DATALOG 8 unit; when the software is running, the touchscreen of the unit
is locked.
The software has many of the same functions as the DATALOG 8 firmware but has the added
advantage of allowing the operator to organise the channels of all the connected units (up to
64 channels) into groups for particular tests or applications. This means that even if you only
have one unit, you can run multiple tests, with different logging rates and start times,
simultaneously. Logging can be programmed to start and/or end automatically when certain
conditions are met (e.g. at a specific time or when a transducer reading is reached).

NOTE:
When the DATALOG 8 is connected to a PC running the DATACOMM 2
software, the touchscreen is locked.
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5.2 Computer specifications
A PC is required with the following minimum specifications:

 Pentium 4 ® CPU 3GHz
 Screen resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels with colour quality set to 32 bit
 1 Gb free hard disc space
 CD-ROM drive
 10/100 Mb Ethernet port
 Microsoft Windows 7 or 8 operating system
 RAM memory: : minimum 2GB; recommended 4GB
The PC settings must be configured as described in the following sections before installing the
software. Instructions are given for Windows 7 and 8 operating systems. To check which
operating system the PC has, open Control Panel and find System (see Fig. 5-1).
Fig. 5-1
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5.2.1 1 I P Address s etting s

The properties of the LAN card must be set as described below.
5.2.1.1 W i ndows 7 Ope r a t i n g Sys t e m
1. Open Control Panel. Select Network and Sharing Center and then select Change
adapter settings from the menu.
2. Select the LAN connection and then click Change settings of this connection.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 from the list and click the Properties button.
4. Make sure the settings are exactly as shown in Fig. 5-2 and then click the OK button.
5. Close Control Panel.
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Fig. 5-2
1. Open Control Panel. Select Network and InternetNetwork and Sharing Center and
select Change adapter settings from the menu.
2. Select the LAN connection and then click Change settings of this connection.
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3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 from the list and click the Properties button.
4. Make sure the settings are exactly as shown in Fig. 5-2 and click the OK button.
5. Close Control Panel.
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5.2.2 2 Energy savin g s etti ngs

The energy saving settings should be switched off to prevent the PC shutting down during a
test.
1. Open Control Panel and select Power Options.
2. Select the Balanced power plan and then click Change plan settings.
3. Select Never for all the available power off settings and then click the Save changes
button.
4. Close Control panel.
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1. Open Control Panel and select Hardware and Sound.
2. From the Power Options, select Change when the computer sleeps.
3. Select Never for all the available power off settings and then click the Save changes
button.
4. Close Control panel.
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5.2.3 3 Us er a ccount contro l settings

The user account control settings must be configured as follows:
Itsettings
NOTE:
is important that the UAC settings are configured as described below. If the
are not correct, some elements of the software will not function properly.
1. From the Windows Start menu, open the Control Panel and select Action Center.
2. Select Change User Account Control Settings.
3. Set the level to Never notify.
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4. Click OK, close Control Panel and restart the PC.

Note: if the UAC settings are changed after the software has been installed, the software
must be re-installed otherwise the changes will not be effective.
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5.3 Installing the software

1. Insert the CD containing the installation files provided by CONTROLS into the PC.
2. Open the folder called ‘Volume’, right-mouse click the application file called ‘setup’ and
select Run as admininstrator from the menu (Fig. 5-3).
Fig. 5-3
3. Follow the instructions given on screen.
4. The software will be installed in the directory specified at the start of the installation (the
default is ‘C:\Program Files\Datacomm2’ or ‘C:\Program Files (x86)\Datacomm2’).
5. To create a shortcut on the desktop, right-mouse click anywhere on the desktop and select
New ► Shortcut from the menu. Use the Browse button to find the file called
‘Datacomm2.exe’ in the installation directory and follow the instructions on screen.
6. If the PC has Windows 7 or higher operating system (see page 54), the program must be
set to run with administrator rights: locate the file called ‘Datacomm2.exe’ in the
installation directory; right-mouse click on the file and select Properties from the menu.
Open the Compatibility tab and tick the Run this program as an administrator check
box. See Fig. 5-4. Click Apply and then OK to close the window.
Fig. 5-4
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7. If the PC is running anti-virus software, this may have to be configured to allow

communication between the DATALOG 8 unit(s) and the PC.
5.3.1 1 Loading fa cto ry cal ibra tion files
If the transducers supplied with the DATALOG 8 unit(s) were calibrated in the factory before
shipping, the calibration files will be included on the CD with the DATACOMM 2 software.
Before using the equipment, the files must be copied from the CD onto the PC as follows:
1. Insert the CD containing the calibration files provided by CONTROLS into the PC.
2. Copy the folder called ‘Channels’.
3. Open the installation directory (the default is ‘C:\Program Files\Datacomm2’ or

‘C:\Program Files (x86)\Datacomm2’) and open the folder called ‘data’. Paste the
‘Channels’ folder into the ‘data’ folder. When asked if you want to overwrite the existing
files, select yes.
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5.4 Main panel

This panel displays the connection status of any DATALOG 8 units that are connected to the
PC, and a list of existing channel groups, from where tests can be setup and started. The time
and date (synchronized with the PC clock) are displayed at the bottom of the panel.
The panel is displayed automatically when the software is run.
5.4.1
5.4.2 5.4.3
Fig. 5-5
5.4.1 1
Too
lba r
The following buttons are available at the top of the panel:
GROUP MANAGEMENT button

Opens the GROUP MANAGEMENT PANEL where the channels of any of
the connected units can be organized into groups, and existing groups can
be modified. See sections 5.5 and 7.4.
REVIEW button
Opens the REVIEW PANEL for loading previous tests and viewing the data
in a table or plotted on a graph. See sections 5.14 and 7.7.
CALIBRATION button
Displays the CHANNEL MANAGEMENT PANEL, from where hardware
settings can be configured, calibrations can be viewed, performed and
downloaded/uploaded, and the IP addresses of the DATALOG 8 units can
be changed. See sections 5.6 and 7.3.
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SETTINGS button
Opens a pop-up panel for changing the software language and password.
See section 7.2.
INFO button
Opens a panel displaying CONTROLS company information and the
software version number.
EXIT button
Closes the software.
5.4.2 2 Conn ection s tatu s

This area displays the connection status of up to eight DATALOG 8 units that may be
connected to the PC. The look of this area can be switched between two options:
 Images of the units (see Fig. 5-5) - when a unit is connected and switched on, the image is
coloured blue, the connection LED is green and the IP address is displayed.
 Indicators (see Fig. 5-6) - when a unit is connected and switched on, the indicator is green
and displays the IP address of the unit.
The top image/indicator represents unit 1 (with the IP address 192.168.000.020), the next one
down represents unit 2 (192.168.000.021) and so on. (See section 7.3.1 for information on
setting the IP address of the units).
Fig. 5-6
To switch between the two looks, click this button at the bottom-left of the panel.
5.4.3 3 Group lis t

This area contains a list of all the transducer groups that have been created, using the names
and colours assigned by the operator. Tests are started from here by double-clicking a group
name. When a new group is created, it will automatically appear in this list.
The groups can be expanded (to display all the channels in the group) by clicking the plus
symbol next to the group name, or collapsed (to hide the channels) by clicking the minus
symbol. The channel names are assigned in the CALIBRATION PANEL (5.7).
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5.5 Group management panel

Any transducers connected to any of the networked DATALOG 8 units can be organised into
groups according to the test or application that data logging is required for. This panel is for
managing the transducer groups.
To open the panel, click the GROUP MANAGEMENT button on the MAIN PANEL.
5.5.1
5.5.2
5.5.4
5.5.3
5.5.5
Fig. 5-7
5.5.1 1
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ADD GROUP button

Unlocks the panel for editing, allowing a new group to be created. See
section 7.4.1.
Note: a new group can only be created if there are unassigned channels
available on the connected units.
SAVE GROUP button

Saves the new group.
MODIFY GROUP button

Unlocks the group selected in the EXISTING GROUPS list allowing it to
be edited.
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DELETE GROUP button

Deletes the group selected in the EXISTING GROUPS list.
EXIT button
Closes the panel.
Note: any unsaved changes will be lost when the panel is closed.
5.5.2 2 Group n a me and co lour

This area displays the name and colour assigned to the group selected in the EXISTING
GROUPS list. Both can be edited when creating a new group or by clicking the MODIFY
GROUP button. Clicking on the group colour opens a palette (Fig. 5-8) from where a new
colour can be selected.
Fig. 5-8
5.5.3 3 Existing g
roups
This area contains a list of all the transducer groups that have been created, showing the names
and colours assigned by the operator. A group is selected for editing or deleting by clicking
once on the group name.
5.5.4 4 Logg er channels
This area displays a block of eight channels for each of the units connected to the PC, with the
unit’s number and IP address above. The channel numbers are assigned by the software
according to the IP address of the unit. See Table 7-1 on page 117.
When a channel has been assigned to a group, the background of the cell changes to the group
colour.
The following are displayed for each channel (see Fig. 5-9):
Ref. Description
1 DATALOG 8 channel number (1 to 8)
2 Channel number assigned by software (1 to 64)
3 Live transducer reading
Note: the decimal places and measurement units are set in the CALIBRATION
PANEL (5.7).
Note: when a transducer reading is out of range, the background of the reading
flashes red. The upper and lower limits are set in the CHANNEL SETTINGS
PANEL (5.10).
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1 2
Fig. 5-9
5.5.5 5 Sta tus
ba r
This bar at the bottom of the panel contains an indicator for each of the eight units that may
be connected to the PC. When a unit is connected and switched on, the indicator is green and
the IP address of the unit is displayed.
The first (left) indicator represents unit 1 (with the IP address 192.168.000.020), the second
one along represents unit 2 (192.168.000.021) and so on.
The time and date (synchronized with the PC clock) are displayed at the far right of the bar.
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5.6 Channel management panel

This panel is for managing transducer calibration data, and is also where the IP addresses and
channel hardware settings of the DATALOG 8 units connected to the PC can be edited.
To open the panel, click the CALIBRATION button on the MAIN PANEL.
5.6.1
5.6.2
5.6.3
Fig. 5-10
5.6.1 1
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VIEW CALIBRATIONS button

Opens the CALIBRATION PANEL where calibrations for the unit selected
from the CONNECTED DATALOG list can be viewed and performed. See
section 5.7.
VIEW HARDWARE SETTINGS button

Opens the HARDWARE SETTINGS PANEL where the hardware
configuration (voltage excitation and input levels) for the unit selected from
the CONNECTED DATALOG list can be viewed and edited. See section 5.8.
SET IP ADDRESS button

Opens a panel where the IP address of the unit selected from the
CONNECTED DATALOG list can be changed. See section 7.3.1.
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SAVE CALIBRATIONS button

Saves all the calibration data in .txt file format.
Note: the data for each channel is saved in an individual folder according
to the software-assigned channel number (1-64) in the ‘data\Channels’
folder of the installation directory.
EXIT button
Closes the panel.
5.6.2 2 Conn ected D atalo g

This drop-down list is for selecting the DATALOG 8 unit that you want to manage.
Note: only units that are connected to the PC and switched on can be selected. See 5.6.4.
5.6.3 3 Channel info tabl e
This table contains all the calibration data from the unit selected in the CONNECTED
DATALOG list. The header row contains the channel number. The rest of the rows are
described in Table 5-1 below.
Ref. Description Source panel

Name The name given to the transducer /channel
Capacity The full scale/capacity of the transducer Calibration (5.7.5)
Unit measure The measurement units
V exc Voltage excitation
Hardware settings (5.8)
Level The input level
True 0 ‘Virtual’ readings that are used to manage
negative transducer readings
DIV 0
True 1 to 10 The reference reading, in measurement Calibration (5.7.5)
units, for calibration points 1 to 10
DIV 1 to 10 The transducer reading, in bits, for
calibration points 1 to 10
Table 5-1
5.6.4 4 Sta tus
ba r
This bar at the bottom of the panel contains an indicator for each of the eight units that may
be connected to the PC. The IP addresses of the units are displayed above the indicators.
When a unit is connected and switched on, the corresponding indicator is green.
The time and date (synchronized with the PC clock) are displayed at the far right of the bar.
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5.7 Calibration panel

This panel displays transducer details and tabulated and graphical calibration data, and
contains functions for performing new calibrations, loading archived calibrations, and
uploading the data to the DATALOG 8 unit.
To open the panel, click the CALIBRATION button on the MAIN PANEL to open
the CHANNEL MANAGEMENT PANEL , select the required unit from the
CONNECTED DATALOG list (5.6.2) and then click the VIEW CALIBRATIONS
button.
Note: to access the panel you will have to enter the password. This prevents data being
changed accidentally. The default password is ‘controls’.
5.7.1
5.7.2 5.7.3
4.5.1
5.7.5 5.7.6
5.7.7
Fig. 5-11
5.7.1 1
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EDIT CALIBRATION button

Unlocks the selected channel (see 5.7.2) for editing.
Note: you will have to enter the password to unlock the panel.
LOAD CALIBRATION button

Opens a standard Windows Open File dialogue box for selecting a
calibration file that was previously saved on the PC and loading the data
into the panel.
Note: the data for each channel is saved in an individual folder according
to the software-assigned channel number (1-64) in the ‘data\Channels’
folder of the installation directory.
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SAVE CALIBRATION button

Opens a standard Windows Save File dialogue box for saving the
calibration data on the PC.
Note: the data is saved as a .txt file. See note above.
UPLOAD CALIBRATION button

Uploads the active calibration to the DATALOG 8 unit.
EXIT button
Closes the panel.
Note: this button is not available when the panel is unlocked for editing.
5.7.2 2 Channel nu mb er
This is for selecting the DATALOG 8 channel number that you want to work with. Channels
1 to 8 can be selected.
Note: the channel must be selected before the EDIT CALIBRATION button is clicked - the
selector is not available when the panel is unlocked for editing.
5.7.3 3 Hardw a re s etting s
These two fields show the input level and current excitation voltage of the channel. The values
can’t be edited here - they are taken from the HARDWARE SETTINGS PANEL (5.8).
5.7.4 4 Transdu cer detai ls
These fields are for entering the following information about the transducer:
 Channel name - a name for the transducer (this text is used in the GROUP LIST (5.4.3))
 Stored V exc. - the excitation voltage stored in the calibration file for the channel
Note: if an archived file has been loaded in, this value may be different from the current
VEXC value (see 5.7.3). In this case, the two values flash red and when the calibration is
uploaded to the unit, you are asked to choose whether to keep the current value or update
the unit with the stored value. It is important that the correct VEXC value is used. See 5.8.4
for information.
 Unit of measure - the (engineering) units that the transducer is measuring
 Full scale - the maximum capacity of the transducer
 Decimals - the number of decimal places for displaying the transducer readings (on all
panels). A maximum of 6 may be selected.
5.7.5 5 Calib ra tion data
This area has a table containing data for up to ten calibration points and tools for editing the
table. The first (left) column displays the calibration point number. The second (middle)
column displays the reference values - the readings of the reference equipment (e.g.
micrometer, gauge blocks, pressure gauge) - in measurement units. The third (right) column
displays the reading in divisions (bits) that corresponds to the reference reading.
The following buttons are available for managing the data in the table:
UNLOCK TABLE button

Unlocks the calibration table so that data can be added or deleted.
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ADD POINT button

Displays a cell for entering the reference reading, along with the ACQUIRE
POINT button and the CANCEL POINT button (see below).
DELETE POINT button

Deletes the last point from the calibration table.
CLEAR TABLE button

Clears all the data from the calibration table.
ACQUIRE POINT button

Captures the current reading of the transducer in bits and enters it in the first
blank row of the table along with the reference reading.
Note: this button is only available after the ADD POINT button is clicked.
CANCEL POINT button

Cancels acquisition of the calibration point.
Note: this button is only available after the ADD POINT button is clicked.
5.7.6 6 Calib ra tion g raph

The graph plots the CALIBRATION DATA, with the transducer readings in bits as abscissa
(x) and the reference readings in measurement units as ordinates (y).
5.7.7 7 Transdu cer read ing s
This area displays the transducer reading in divisions (bits) and the calculated reading in
measurement units. The reading in measurement units is calculated by applying a linear fit
through the calibration points.
The zero button is for setting the reading in measurement units to zero.
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5.8 Hardware settings panel

This panel is for editing the hardware settings (excitation voltage and input level) of the
DATALOG 8 channels.
To open the panel, click the CALIBRATION button on the MAIN PANEL to open
the CHANNEL MANAGEMENT PANEL, select the required unit from the
CONNECTED DATALOG list (5.6.2) and then click the VIEW HARDWARE
SETTINGS button.
Note: to access the panel you will have to enter the password. This prevents data being
changed accidentally. The default password is ‘controls’.
5.8.1
5.8.2 5.8.3 5.8.4
Fig. 5-12
5.8.1 1
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UPLOAD SETTINGS button

Uploads the input levels and the excitation voltage for all eight channels to
the selected DATALOG 8 unit.
EXIT button
Closes the panel.
The following values are displayed for the channels of the selected DATALOG 8 unit (the
channel numbers are shown down the left side of the panel):
5.8.2 2 Transdu cer read ing s
These fields display the readings in divisions (bits) of the transducers.
5.8.3 3 Input l ev els
These drop-down lists are for selecting the input levels. The options are: LOW (20 mV);
HIGH (10 V); Current (0 - 20 mA, for 0-20 and 0-40 mA transducers) and uV (20 mV, for
strain gauges). Reference should be made to the documentation received with the transducer
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to ensure the correction option is selected. See also Table 4-1 on page 49, which shows the
hardware settings for some of the transducers most commonly supplied by CONTROLS.
5.8.4 4 Exci ta tion vol ta ge
In the DATALOG 8 unit, the channels are grouped into four pairs, with each pair having the
same excitation voltage (VEXC). This can be set to any value between 0.5 and 10 V DC. The
correct value should be written in the documentation received with the transducer. The
adjacent plus and minus buttons are used to change the value.
Note: transducers requiring the same VEXC should be connected to same pair of channels (1 &
2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8). If a load cell with a VEXC of 9 V is connected to a paired channel with
a displacement transducer with a VEXC of 10 V, both channels will default to the lower value
of 9 V.
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5.9 Test setup panel

This panel is for setting the logging mode, specifying any automatic start and end conditions,
and starting a test. Each group has its own panel.
To open the panel, double-click on the transducer group you want to use for the test in the
GROUP LIST (5.4.3).
5.9.1
5.9.2
5.9.3
5.9.4
5.9.5
5.9.6
Fig. 5-13
5.9.1 1 Transdu cer
displa y
This area displays the names and live readings of all the group’s channels, with the group name
and colour at the top and the test status at the bottom. Double-clicking on the row of a
transducer opens the CHANNEL SETTINGS PANEL (5.10) where travel limits can be set, a
zero offset can be applied, and the channel can be set to read in strain.
When the reading is within the travel limits, the reading cell is green. If the transducer goes
out of range, the cell turns red and the adjacent cell indicates whether the Upper or Lower
limit has been exceeded.
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5.9.2 2 Ti me bas e
This drop-down list is for selecting the time units that will be used to calculate the logging
intervals. The options are Min (minutes) and Sec (seconds).
5.9.3 3 Acqui siti on mod e
The logging mode is selected from this drop-down list. One of the following options can be
selected:
 Linear - select this mode to record readings at regular intervals determined by the value
entered for factor A.
For example: to log a reading every 30 seconds, 30 would be entered for factor A and Sec
would be selected for the Time base.
 Polynomial - with this mode selected, readings are recorded at intervals determined by the
formula:
t(i) = A × i B
where:
t is the elapsed time;
i is the reading number, starting from 1;
A and B are the factors entered by the operator
For example: using factors A = 0.25 & B = 2.0 and selecting Min for the Time base gives
readings at elapsed times of 0.25, 1, 2.25, 4, 6.25, 9, 12.25, 16 minutes and so on… which
is suitable for a BS1377 isotropic consolidation stage.
 Exponential - this mode uses the following formula to calculate the logging intervals:
t(i) = A × B i
For example: using A = 0.06 & B = 2.0 and selecting Min for the Time base gives readings
at elapsed times of 0.12, 0.24, 0.48, 0.96, 1.92, 3.84, 7.68, 15.36 minutes and so on… which
is suitable for an ASTM oedometer consolidation test.
 Table - select this mode to log readings at pre-programmed intervals. The intervals are
entered and saved in a .txt file which is then loaded in via a pop-up panel - see Fig. 5-14.
Fig. 5-14
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To create the file, the elapsed times of all the required readings, in minutes, are entered in
a single column, starting from reading 1, using a program such as Notepad. An example is
shown in Fig. 5-15.
Fig. 5-15
Note: a start reading is automatically recorded at zero minutes in all logging modes.
Logging
NOTE:
rates that cause excessive numbers of readings to be recorded should be
avoided as dealing with very large data files can be problematic. If a test is
expected to be running for a long time, the logging rate should be set accordingly
with large time intervals.
The logging rate cannot be changed after the test has started.
5.9.4 4 Sta rt conditi ons

Any of the following options can be ticked to automatically control the start of logging:
 Delay on start - tick this option to delay the start of logging after the START TEST
BUTTON is clicked. The required time delay, in seconds, is entered on the adjacent Delay
tab (see Fig. 5-16).
Fig. 5-16
 Start on trigger - tick this option to start logging when the reading of a designated
transducer reaches a certain value. On the adjacent Trig tab (see Fig. 5-17), the channel
number can be selected and the trigger value (in measurement units) entered. The direction
of movement is selected from the drop-down list.
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Fig. 5-17
For example:
1. The displacement transducer is reading 10 mm and will be moving towards zero during
the test. You want to start logging when the transducer reads 9 mm. To achieve this, you
would enter 9 in the Value cell and select Fall for the Direction.
2. The load is reading 5 kN and will be increasing during the test. You want to start logging
when the loads is 100 kN. To achieve this, you would enter 100 in the Value cell and select
Rise for the Direction.
 Start at preset time - this option can be ticked if you want to start logging at a specific
time of day (corresponding to the PC’s clock). The time and date are entered on the
adjacent Time tab (see Fig. 5-18). The button on the tab can be clicked to open a pop-up
calendar panel (Fig. 5-19) where a date can be picked and the time can be entered. The
formats must be dd/mm/yyyy (date) and hh:mm:ss (time).
Fig. 5-18
If more than one option is ticked, logging will start when one of the conditions becomes true,
whichever one occurs first. If none of them is ticked, logging will start as soon as the START
TEST BUTTON (5.9.6) is clicked.
Fig. 5-19
5.9.5 5 Stop condi
tion s
Any of the following options can be ticked to automatically control when logging will be
stopped:
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 Maximum test time - tick this option to stop logging when the test has been running for a
certain amount of time. The elapsed time, in minutes, is entered on the adjacent MaxTime
tab (see Fig. 5-20).
Fig. 5-20
 Max readings - tick this option to stop logging when a set number of readings have been
recorded. The number of readings is entered on the adjacent MaxRdg tab (see Fig. 5-21).
Note: this option is not available if Table is selected for the Acquisition mode.
Fig. 5-21
 Stop on trigger - select this option to stop logging when the reading of a designated
transducer reaches a certain value. On the adjacent Trig tab (see Fig. 5-22), the channel
number can be selected and the trigger value (in measurement units) entered. The direction
of movement is selected from the drop-down list.
For example: you want to stop logging when the load has reached 5000 kN and has then
started to decrease. To achieve this, you would enter 5000 in the Value cell and select Fall
for the Direction.
Fig. 5-22
 Stop at preset time - this option can be selected if you want logging to stop at a specific
time of day (corresponding to the PC’s clock). The time and date are entered on the
adjacent Time tab (see Fig. 5-23). The button on the tab can be clicked to open a pop-up
calendar panel (Fig. 5-19) where a date can be picked and the time can be entered. The
formats must be dd/mm/yyyy (date) and hh:mm:ss (time).
Fig. 5-23
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If more than one option is selected, logging will stop when one of the conditions becomes true,
whichever one occurs first. If none of them is selected, logging will continue until the STOP
TEST BUTTON (5.11.3) is clicked.
5.9.6 6 Sta rt tes t bu tton
This button at the bottom of the panel prompts the operator to enter a name and
location to save the test data and then starts the test, with the TEST CONTROL
PANEL (5.11) displayed. If any START CONDITIONS were ticked, logging will
start when one of the conditions is met, whichever occurs first.
Note: a start reading is automatically recorded at zero minutes. Data are recorded in a tab-
separated .txt file. The default location for the files is the ‘data\Log’ folder of the installation
directory.
To close the panel, click the close button in the top-right corner.
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5.10 Channel settings panel

This panel is for setting the travel limits of individual transducers within a group, configuring
a channel to measure strain, and applying zero offsets.
To open the panel, double-click on the transducer group in the GROUP LIST (5.4.3) to open
the TEST SETUP PANEL and then double-click on the required row of the TRANSDUCER
DISPLAY (5.9.1).
5.10.1
5.10.2
5.10.3
Fig. 5-24
5.10.1 1 Trav el li
mits
This area is for setting an upper (maximum) and a lower (minimum) travel limit for the
transducer, so that using the transducer beyond its recommended range can be avoided.
Note: when a transducer is out of range, the background of the transducer reading in the
TEST SETUP PANEL, the GROUP MANAGEMENT PANEL and the TEST CONTROL
PANEL will be red to alert the operator. The travel limits or capacity of a transducer can be
found on the manufacturer’s documentation.
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NOTE:
Allowing a transducer to exceed its capacity can cause damage to the equipment
or give unreliable readings.
5.10.2 2 Strain configu ra tio n

This area contains the following items for setting a displacement transducer to display readings
in strain, or for using a strain gauge:
 Input level - this indicates the input level of the channel, which is set in the HARDWARE
SETTINGS PANEL (5.8).
 Enable strain - this switch is for turning the strain calculation for a displacement transducer
on and off. When the switch is on (green), the strain calculation is enabled: the input for
Base length is displayed (see below and Fig. 5-25) and the transducer will read in micro
strain.
Fig. 5-25
 Base length - this field is only displayed if Enable strain switch is on and is for entering
the distance over which the strain is being measured. This could be the distance between
the centres of the mounting points (see Fig. 5-26) or the length of the gauge, depending on
how the gauge/transducer is attached to the sample. The value is used to calculate sample
deformation in microstrain ():
∆�
𝜇�= 𝜀× 10−6 = × 10−6
�0
where:
L is the measured deformation;
L0 is the base length.
NOTE:
Note: this input is not required if a strain gauge is being used. See the additional settings
below.
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Sample Base
length
Fig. 5-26
These additional settings (see Fig. 5-27) relate to strain gauges and are available only when
uV is selected for the input level in the HARDWARE SETTINGS PANEL (5.8):
 Gauge factor - this is for entering the factor for converting the change in gauge resistance
into a strain value. This value should be provided by the gauge manufacturer.
 Bridge configuration - this drop-down list is for specifying the configuration of the
Wheatstone bridge compensation device (82-P0398). The options are ½ and ¼.
Fig. 5-27
 Current V exc. - this displays the excitation voltage set in the HARDWARE SETTINGS
SCREEN (5.8.4).
 Current reading - this displays the live transducer reading, in measurement units. If the
Enable strain switch is on, the readings are displayed in microstrain ().
5.10.3 3 Zero bu ttons
These two buttons are for applying a zero offset to the selected channel or to all the channels
in the group. After a zero offset is applied, the transducer(s) readings will all be relative to
this offset.
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5.11 Test control panel

This panel is shown when a test is started (see 5.9.6) and displays live readings for the selected
group’s channels, with buttons for showing the recorded data on a graph or in a table. Each
group has its own panel, allowing multiple tests to be monitored simultaneously.
5.11.1
5.11.2 5.11.3
5.11.4
Fig. 5-28
5.11.1 1 Transdu cer
displa y
See 5.9.1.
5.11.2 2 Toolba r
The following buttons are available on the panel:
VIEW GRAPH button

Opens the GRAPH PANEL where recorded data is plotted. See section 5.12.
VIEW TABLE button

Opens the DATA TABLE PANEL where recorded data is shown in a table.
See section 5.13.
MANUAL LOG button

Adds the current readings to the data file. (The added row is marked as a
user log in the note column of the file and the data table.)
5.11.3 3 Stop test button

This button is for stopping the test, over-riding any STOP CONDITIONS that may
have been programmed.
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Note: an end reading is automatically recorded when logging is stopped.

5.11.4 4 Elapsed ti me
This indicator displays the amount of time that has elapsed since logging started, in the format
dd:hh:mm:ss.
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5.12 Graph panel

This panel displays recorded data for the selected test plotted on a customizable graph.
To open the panel, click the VIEW GRAPH button on the TEST CONTROL PANEL
(5.11) (or on the REVIEW PANEL (5.14) if viewing a historical test).
5.12.2
5.12.1
Fig. 5-29
5.12.1 1
Toolba r
The following buttons are available at the bottom of the panel:
BACK button
Closes the panel.
VIEW TABLE button

See section 5.13.
MANUAL LOG button

5.12.2 2 Graph
Logged data for all the group transducers can be plotted on the graph, with time or individual
channel data plotted as abscissa (x) and all channels as ordinates (y). The graph can be
customised using the functions described below:
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 X type - this drop-down list at the bottom-centre of the graph controls which data are plotted
as abscissa (x values). Select Time or any group channel.
 X scale - this drop-down list at the bottom-left of the graph controls what type of scale is
used for the x-axis of the graph. The options are Linear, Logarithmic and Quadratic.
 Legend - located at the right of the graph, this provides a colour key for the plot data and
also allows you to choose which of the channels are plotted as ordinates (y values).
Data can be shown/hidden by ticking/unticking the check box next to the channel number.
A menu with options for customising the line colour and style can be accessed by right-
mouse clicking on the individual colour key. See Fig. 5-30.
Fig. 5-30 Fig. 5-31
 Graph options - displayed by right-clicking anywhere on the graph area, this menu (Fig.
5-31) contains the following useful options for customising the graph and capturing data:
- Copy data - captures an image of the live graph which can then be pasted into another
program such as MS Paint or Word
- Visible Items - has options to show/hide the plot legend, X Scale and Y Scale
- Clear Graph - clears the current data from the graph
- Autoscale X - turns autoscaling of the x axis on/off
- Autoscale Y - turns autoscaling of the y axis on/off
- Autosize Plot Legend - this should always be ticked so that the labels are fully visible
- Export - has options to export the data displayed on the live graph to the clipboard or
directly to an Excel spreadsheet, and to create an image file of the live graph.
 Hold button - this button at the bottom-right of the graph stops the graph being updated
with new readings. Data logging continues in the background but the graph will not be
updated until the button is clicked again.
 Graph palette - these tools allow specific areas of the graph to be viewed in more detail by
zooming in and out and moving the region of the graph that is displayed. The function of
each tool is as follows:
Cursor movement - currently disabled.
Zoom - switching this on allows you to zoom in and out of the graph area.
Pan - switching this on allows you to drag the contents of the graph area around
to view different areas.
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5.13 Data table panel

This panel displays recorded data for the selected test in a table.
To open the panel, click the VIEW TABLE button on the TEST CONTROL PANEL
(5.11) (or on the REVIEW PANEL (5.14) if viewing a historical test).
5.13.2
5.13.1
Fig. 5-32
5.13.1 1
Toolba r
The following buttons are available at the bottom of the panel:
BACK button
Closes the panel.
VIEW GRAPH button

Opens the GRAPH PANEL where recorded data is plotted on a graph. See
section 5.12.
MANUAL LOG button

5.13.2 2 Table
Logged data for all the group’s transducers is shown in the table. The first (left) column
contains the reading numbers; the second has the elapsed time in days, hours, minutes and
seconds; the third has the elapsed time in minutes. The next columns contain the readings for
each channel, with the channel number and measurement units displayed in the header rows.
The Note column can be used to record comments by clicking on a row and entering text in
the pop-up window.
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The buttons directly below and to the right of the table can be used to scroll through the rows
and columns:
Clicking this type of button scrolls the table to the end of the data;
This type scrolls one row or column at a time.

The cell located at the bottom-right corner of the table displays the number of the first visible
reading.
This button to the centre-right of the table stops the table being updated with new
readings. Data logging continues in the background but the table will not be
updated until the button is clicked again.
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5.14 Review panel

This panel is for managing historical test data. Tests can be loaded, viewed, deleted and
resaved. Historical tests can be viewed while live tests are running.
To open the panel, click the REVIEW button on the MAIN PANEL.
Fig. 5-33
5.14.1 1
Toolba rs
The following buttons are available on the panel:
OPEN FILE button

Opens a standard Windows Open File dialogue box from where a test file
can be selected.
SAVE AS button
For saving the selected test file with a new name.
DELETE button
For deleting the selected test file.
EXIT button
Closes the panel.
VIEW GRAPH button

Opens the GRAPH PANEL where recorded data is plotted on a graph. See
section 5.12 (features related to a live test are disabled).
VIEW TABLE button

See section 5.13 (features related to a live test are disabled).
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6. USING THE DATALOG 8

This section describes how to operate the DATALOG 8 unit using the touchscreen interface.
If7; using
NOTE:
the optional software DATACOMM 2, follow the procedures in section
when the software is running the touchscreen is locked and cannot be used to
control the unit.
The numbers in circles on the figures refer to the step numbers of the section. If you need
more information on any part of the touchscreen interface, refer to the descriptions in section
4.
All the instructions given in this section assume that the DATALOG 8 unit is installed as
described in section 3.
WARNING!
equipment. Refer to the relevant hardware instruction manuals for safety
information and procedures for correct use of the equipment.
Any use of the equipment other than that described in the relevant instruction
manuals will void the warranty terms of the equipment.

NOTE:
The touchscreen should be operated using the stylus provided. Hitting the
touchscreen heavily may damage it. Never use a pen or a sharp object as damage
to the equipment may result. The warranty will be void if the screen is damaged
due to improper use.
The
NOTE:
USB port on the rear panel of the unit is only for the connection of the
memory stick to store test data. Do not use it to recharge portable devices such
as mobile phones, MP3 players, etc.
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6.1 Switching the unit on

1. Make sure that: the transducers are connected into the correct channels*, the power cable
is plugged in (see 3.4), and the mains power supply is on.
Switching
*NOTE:
the DATALOG 8 unit on with incorrect hardware settings for the
connected transducers may cause equipment damage. If transducers are being
used for the first time, the hardware settings should be checked before connecting
them. See section 6.3.1. CONTROLS will not be held responsible for equipment
damage caused by the use of incorrect hardware settings.
2. If you want to save logged data, plug a USB memory stick into the USB port (Fig. 6-1).
Fig. 6-1
3. Press the power switch located next to the power socket into the ON (“I”) position.
4. The display will come on showing the title screen (Fig. 6-2). After a few seconds, the
MAIN MENU will be displayed.
Fig. 6-2
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Note: if no USB stick is connected, a warning message will appear (Fig. 6-3) advising you
that data will not be saved. Tap the ENTER button to close the message.
Fig. 6-3

NOTE:
The USB memory stick should be connected / disconnected when the unit is
turned off. It must not be disconnected while a test is running.
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6.2 Managing system options

6.2.1 1 Changin g the date a nd ti me
1. Select OPTIONS from the MAIN MENU.
2. Select DATE/TIME from the OPTIONS MENU to open the Calendar/Clock screen
(Fig. 6-4).
3. Tap the date or time and enter a new value using the KEYBOARD.
4. Close the screen to return to the OPTIONS MENU. Close the OPTIONS MENU to
return to the MAIN MENU.
Fig. 6-4
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6.2.2 2 Changin g the displa y langu ag e
2. Select LANGUAGE from the OPTIONS MENU to open the Language screen (Fig.
6-5).
3. Tap a language to select it. The display will change immediately.

Note: in the current version Italian and English languages are available.
Fig. 6-5
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6.2.3 3 Setting th e I P address

This procedure is only necessary when more than one unit is connected, over a network, to a
PC running the DATACOMM 2 software. Up to eight units can be connected in this way and
each unit must have a different IP address, as shown in Table 6-1 below. The default IP address
of the unit is 192.168.000.020. Alternatively, the procedure can be managed using the
software - see section 7.3.1.
Unit IP address Channel numbers

assigned by software
1 192.168.000.020 1 to 8
2 192.168.000.021 9 to 16
3 192.168.000.022 17 to 24
4 192.168.000.023 25 to 32
5 192.168.000.024 33 to 40
6 192.168.000.025 41 to 48
7 192.168.000.026 49 to 56
8 192.168.000.027 57 to 64
Table 6-1

NOTE:
The touchscreen interface is locked when the unit is connected to the PC and the
DATACOMM 2 software is running. This procedure must be performed before
running the software.
Fig. 6-6
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2. Select NETWORK from the OPTIONS MENU to open the Network Configuration
screen (Fig. 6-6).
3. Tap the IP address and edit the last two numbers in accordance with Table 6-1 using the
KEYBOARD.
Note: the subnet mask should not be changed. It must always be 255.255.255.000.
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6.2.4 4 USB memo ry s tick mana gement

Logged data can only be stored if a USB device is connected to the DATALOG 8 unit (see
2.4). Logging can still be carried out without a USB memory stick connected but the data will
not be saved for future use. The procedure in section 6.2.4.1 below describes how to tell the
unit what action to take if it doesn’t find a USB device connected.
Note: a USB memory stick is provided with the unit but any suitable device can be used.
6.2.4.1 Se t t i ng t he be ha vi our of t he uni t whe n no U SB s t i c k i s c o nne c t e d
2. Select USB MEMORY from the OPTIONS MENU to open the USB Memory
Management screen (Fig. 6-7).
Fig. 6-7
3. If you want the unit to emit an audible alarm if you start logging without a USB stick
connected, tap the button of the middle option (Audible alarm). The button turns blue
when the option is selected.
4. The top and bottom options are selected on an “either/or” basis. Select:
 If not detected, do not start test if you want the unit to prevent logging being started
when no USB stick is connected;
 If not detected, start test anyway if you want to allow logging to start even when no
USB is connected.
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6.2.4.2 De l e t i ng f i l e s f r o m t h e US B s t i c k
The area at the bottom of the USB Memory Management screen (Fig. 6-7) displays the
following contents of the USB stick:
 Number of files
 Number of directories (folders)
 Total size of files in bytes
 Number of bytes still available
1. Tap the Bin button to delete the entire contents of the USB stick. You will be
asked to confirm (Fig. 6-8).
Fig. 6-8
2. A system message will be shown while the archive is being deleted.
The
NOTE:
USB memory stick should be connected / disconnected when the unit is
turned off. It must not be disconnected while a test is running.
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6.3 Setting up transducers

6.3.1 1 Editing th e ha rdw a re s etting s
If the transducers being used with the DATALOG 8 were calibrated in the factory before
shipping, the hardware settings will already be configured. If a transducer is moved to another
channel or is being used in a channel for the first time, the hardware settings of the channel
must be configured as follows:
Switching
NOTE:
the DATALOG 8 unit on with unsuitable hardware settings for the
connected transducers may cause equipment damage. The hardware settings
should be checked before connecting transducers. CONTROLS will not be held
responsible for equipment damage caused by the use of incorrect hardware
settings.
1. Select CALIBRATION from the MAIN MENU.
2. Select the Enter button on the CALIBRATION MENU (Fig. 6-9) to open the HARDWRE
SETTINGS SCREEN (Fig. 6-10).
Fig. 6-9
3. Select the EDIT button and enter the passcode ‘00101’ using the KEYBOARD.
4. To change the input level, tap on the value in line with the required channel number until
the desired option is shown (LOW (20 mV), HIGH (10 V), uV (20 mV) or mA (0 - 20
mA). Refer to section 4.5.2 for more information.
5. The channels are grouped into four pairs, with each pair having the same voltage
excitation. To increase the excitation for a pair of channels, tap the plus button adjacent
to the relevant pair. To decrease the excitation, use the minus button. Refer to section
4.5.2 for more information.
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6. Select the SAVE button to save the changes.
7. Close the screen to return to the CALIBRATION MENU. Close the CALIBRATION
MENU to return to the MAIN MENU.
Fig. 6-10
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6.3.2 2 Setting tran sducer l i mi ts

A minimum and maximum travel limit can be set for each channel. When the transducer is
reading within these limits during logging, the background of the transducer reading on the
TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN is green. If the transducer reading goes below the
minimum or above the maximum, the background changes to red to warn the operator, who
can then stop the test, if necessary.
1. Select TEST RUN from the MAIN MENU.
2. Tap the reading of the channel number you want to edit on the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY
SCREEN (Fig. 6-11) and enter the passcode ‘00101’ using the KEYBOARD.
Fig. 6-11
3. In the CHANNEL SETTINGS SCREEN, (Fig. 6-12), edit the upper (maximum) and/or
lower (minimum) travel limits by tapping the field and entering a new value using the
KEYBOARD.
Note: the travel limits or capacity of a transducer can be found on the manufacturer’s
documentation.
Fig. 6-12
4. Close the screen to return to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN. Close the
TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN to return to the MAIN MENU.
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6.3.3 3 Using a di spla ceme nt transducer to measure strain

Transducers that have been calibrated to measure in units of length (e.g. mm) can be set to
read in strain (, microstrain) as follows:
Note: this procedure is not applicable to strain gauges - for this type of measuring device see
6.3.4.
2. Tap the reading of the channel number you want to edit on the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY
SCREEN (Fig. 6-11) and enter the passcode ‘00101’ using the KEYBOARD.
3. In the CHANNEL SETTINGS SCREEN, (Fig. 6-13), tap the Strain calc. enable button.
The button turns blue when the option is selected.
4. In the Base length field, enter the reference length for calculating microstrain from the
transducer measurements. See section 4.3.4 for more information.
The
NOTE:
base length must be measured in the same units as the transducer connected
5. Close the screen to return to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN. Close the
TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN to return to the MAIN MENU.
Fig. 6-13
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6.3.4 4 Using strain g aug es

Strain gauges (e.g. 82-P0390), adhered to the surface of a sample, can be connected to the
DATALOG 8 unit in order to directly measure the strain characteristics. From this data it is
possible to determine Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio.
For a ¼ bridge configuration, each gauge must be connected to the DATALOG 8 via a
compensation device to complete the Wheatstone bridge circuit. A suitable device can be
supplied by CONTROLS (82-P0398). This device consists of three 120 Ω resistances
connected to each other in such a way as to work as the three passive arms of the Wheatstone
bridge (see Fig. 6-14). A trimmer is inserted to balance the bridge, compensate for non-
linearities and zero-set the bridge before measurements are performed. The cables for
connecting the strain gauges to the compensation device are included with the device.
Fig. 6-14
In a ¼ bridge configuration, the output signal (V, in microvolts) of the Wheatstone bridge is:
1
�= × �× ∆𝑅
4 𝑅
where:
U is the excitation voltage of the bridge;
R is the change in resistance of the active strain gauge.
This last parameter is related to the change in gauge length with the following relationship:
∆�
∆𝑅 = (1 + 2 × �) ×
= �× 𝜀
𝑅 �0
where:
L is the change in gauge length;
L0 is the base length;
K is the gauge factor;
is the measured strain.
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The gauge factor K depends on the Poisson’s ratio of the material used to make the strain
gauge and can be found printed on the box that the gauges are supplied in. For foil strain
gauges, the value is typically around 2.
The DATALOG 8 displays readings in microstrain (or microepsilon), calculated as follows:

∆�
× 10−6 4×�
𝜇�=
= �× �
�0
Strain gauges can be connected to any of the unit’s eight channels. The input level of the
channels must be set to uV in the HARDWARE SETTINGS SCREEN. See section 6.3.1.
6.3.4.1 E va l ua t i on of Youn g’ s modul us of c onc r e t e

This test is performed on concrete cylinders 150 mm diameter x 300 mm height. Three active
foil strain gauges (at least 50 mm long) are attached laterally, at 120º intervals, to the surface
of the sample, parallel to its axis and centered at around mid-height.
Each strain gauge is connected to a different compensation device (82-P0398); the
compensation devices are then connected to the channels of the DATALOG 8 that have been
set up for strain gauges (see above).
The compressibility of the sample is calculated from the average of the three independent
measurements.
Note: the length of each strain gauge shall be at least 10 times greater than the largest grain
diameter and shall not be attached within D/2 of the sample ends, where D is the sample
diameter.
6.3.4.2 E va l ua t i on of P oi s s on’ s r a t i o of c o nc r e t e
The setup for this test is the same as above (6.3.4.1), with the addition of three more strain
gauges, positioned perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder.
The additional gauges are connected to three different compensation devices (82-P0398),
which are then connected to the channels of the DATALOG 8 that have been set up for strain
gauges.
In this configuration, six independent measurements of strain are carried out; three on the
vertical axis and three on the radial.
6.3.4.3 E va l u a t i on of Youn g’ s modul us a nd Poi s s on’ s r a t i o of r oc k
For this test, one or two strain gauges are attached perpendicular to the sample axis, to measure
radial strain, and one or two are attached parallel to the axis, to measure vertical strain.
Each strain gauge is connected to a different compensation device (82-P0398); the
compensation devices are then connected to the channels of the DATALOG 8 that have been
set up for strain gauges.
Note: the length of each strain gauge shall be at least 10 times greater than the largest grain
diameter and shall not be attached within D/2 of the sample ends, where D is the sample
diameter. For a rock sample with a diameter of 54 mm, a 20 mm long strain gauge should be
satisfactory.
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6.3. 5 Perfo rmin g a calib ration

Transducers must be calibrated when they are first connected to any new channel. They should
also be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are still functioning correctly.
For this procedure, you will need to have suitable reference equipment that is calibrated (and
preferably traceable) and has the same or higher capacity than the transducer.
Before starting, make sure the transducers are connected as described in section 3.4, and the
unit is switched on (see 6.1).
1. Select CALIBRATION from the MAIN MENU.
2. Select the channel number that the transducer is connected to from the CALIBRATION
MENU (Fig. 6-15).
Fig. 6-15
3. Select the EDIT button on the CALIBRATION SCREEN and enter the passcode ‘00101’
using the KEYBOARD. The button text will change to SAVE.
4. If required, edit the Transducer details by tapping each field and entering a new value
using the KEYBOARD. (See 4.5.1.2 for information.) Tap the SAVE button after changing
the values so that the firmware will be updated.
5. Put the transducer and the reference equipment into position for the first calibration point
(usually zero). When the Reading in divs is steady, tap the icon in the first row of the
Calibration table to capture the reading and enter it in the table.
6. Tap the first row of the ‘Ref.’ column and enter the value shown on the reference
equipment, using the KEYBOARD. Tap the SAVE button.
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7. Move the transducer into position for the next calibration point. When the Reading in divs
is steady, tap the icon in the next row of the Calibration table. Enter the value shown on
the reference equipment in the ‘Ref.’ column and tap the SAVE button.
4
6
Fig. 6-16
8. Repeat step 7 for all the remaining points.

Note: a maximum of eight calibration points can be performed. The reference value
cannot exceed the full scale of the transducer entered in the Transducer details.
9. Close the screen to return to the CALIBRATION MENU. Select another channel
number to perform another calibration or close the CALIBRATION MENU to return
to the MAIN MENU.
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6.4 Logging data

Before starting, make sure the transducers are connected as described in section 3.4 and
calibrated (see 6.3.5), and the unit is switched on (see 6.1).
2. Select the FILENAME button at the bottom of the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN
(Fig. 6-17) and enter a name for the data file using the KEYBOARD.
Note: the filename must not contain any spaces.
3 8
8 4 2
Fig. 6-17
3. To enable/disable logging for a channel, tap the transducer reading to open the CHANNEL
SETTINGS SCREEN (Fig. 6-18) and tap the Channel enabled button. When the button
is coloured blue, logging is enabled; when it is black logging is disabled. Close the screen
and repeat for other channels, if required.
Note: when a channel is disabled, the transducer reading is displayed as ‘******’.
Fig. 6-18
4. Select the LOGGING INTV button at the bottom of the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN
to open the LOGGING MODE SCREEN (Fig. 6-19). Select the logging mode you want to
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use and edit the interval, factors or table to get the required logging intervals. See 4.3.2
for details.
Fig. 6-19
5. Set the scale of the data graph’s x-axis by tapping on X-axis Scale until the required value
is displayed. If you want all the data to be plotted on one graph page, make sure that the
selected scale value is greater than the expected duration of the test. See 4.3.2 for
information.
6. Select the CONDITIONS button at the bottom of the LOGGING MODE SCREEN (Fig.
6-19) to open the START/END CONDITIONS SCREEN (Fig. 6-20).
Fig. 6-20
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Select any conditions you want to use to trigger the start and end of logging, and edit the
values, if required. See 4.3.3 for details. If you want to start and stop the logging
manually, make sure none of the options are selected.
7. Close the START/END CONDITIONS SCREEN and then the LOGGING MODE
SCREEN to return to the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN.
8. Make sure the transducers are all in position for the test start. If required, set the readings
to zero by selecting the ZERO button next to the transducer reading.
Fig. 6-21
9. Select the START button to start logging. If you selected any start conditions in step 6,
logging will start when one of the conditions is true, whichever one occurs first (if you
selected more than one).
10. To view logged data plotted on a graph (Fig. 6-22), select the VIEW GRAPH button at the
bottom of the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN. To see the data in tabulated form,
select the VIEW DATA button at the bottom of the GRAPH SCREEN.
Fig. 6-22
11. If you need to take an extra reading at any time, select the MANUAL LOG button at the
bottom of the TRANSDUCER DISPLAY SCREEN or the GRAPH SCREEN.
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12. If you selected any end conditions in step 6, logging will stop automatically when one of
the conditions is true, whichever one occurs first (if you selected more than one). To stop
the logging manually, select the STOP button (you will be asked to confirm).
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6.5 Switching the unit off

Make sure all data logging is stopped and then press the power switch located next to the
power socket into the OFF (“0”) position.
Fig. 6-23
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7. USING THE DATACOMM 2 SOFTWARE

This section is only relevant if you have the DATACOMM 2 software (82-P9008/SOF).
This section describes how to operate the DATALOG 8 unit using the DATACOMM 2
software. The numbers in circles on the figures refer to the step numbers of the section. If
you need more information on any part of the software, refer to the descriptions in section 5.
All the instructions given in this section assume that the DATALOG 8 unit is installed as
described in section 3 and the DATACOMM 2 software is installed on the PC according to
the instructions in section 5.3.
WARNING!
equipment. Refer to the relevant hardware instruction manuals for safety
information and procedures for correct use of the equipment.
Any use of the equipment other than that described in the relevant instruction
manuals will void the warranty terms of the equipment.
The
NOTE:
USB port on the rear panel of the unit is only for the connection of the
memory stick to store test data. Do not use it to recharge portable devices such
as mobile phones, MP3 players, etc.
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7.1 Running the software

1. Switch on the DATALOG 8 unit(s) according to the procedure in section 6.1.
2. Switch on the PC. When ready, run the DATACOMM 2 software by clicking on the
desktop icon (Fig. 7-1) or by selecting DATACOMM 2 from the Windows Start menu.
Fig. 7-1
The startup screen (Fig. 7-2) is shown for a few seconds and then the MAIN PANEL opens.
Fig. 7-2
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7.2 Managing system options

7.2.1 1 Changin g the displa y langu ag e
1. Click the SETTINGS button on the MAIN PANEL to open the Options panel (Fig.
7-3).
2. Select a language from the drop-down list and then click the OK button to confirm
the change and close the panel. The change is effective immediately.
Note: in the current version Italian and English languages are available.
Fig. 7-3
7.2.2 2 Changin g the passw ord
1. Click the SETTINGS button on the MAIN PANEL to open the Options panel (Fig.
7-3).
2. Click the Change password button, enter the current password when prompted (the
default is ‘controls’) and click the OK button.
3. In the window that appears (Fig. 7-4), enter the new password in the top field. Enter
the same password in the bottom field and then click the OK button to close the
window.
Fig. 7-4
Note: the password cannot be recovered by CONTROLS if you lose or forget it.
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7.3 Configuring the units

7.3.1 1 Changin g the I P ad dress
Up to eight units can be connected, over a network, to the PC running the DATACOMM 2
software. Each unit must have a different IP address, as shown in Table 7-1 below. The
default IP address is 192.168.000.020 but if specified at the time of ordering, the IP addresses
of the units will have been configured in the factory, and the units will be labelled accordingly.
Unit IP address Channel numbers

assigned by software
1 192.168.000.020 1 to 8
2 192.168.000.021 9 to 16
3 192.168.000.022 17 to 24
4 192.168.000.023 25 to 32
5 192.168.000.024 33 to 40
6 192.168.000.025 41 to 48
7 192.168.000.026 49 to 56
8 192.168.000.027 57 to 64
Table 7-1
The following procedure can be used to change the IP address of a unit:
Note: if you have more than one unit and they are not labelled with a factory-set IP address,
connect and configure the units one at a time, assigning the highest number first and finishing
with unit 1.
1. Click the CALIBRATION button on the MAIN PANEL to open the CHANNEL
MANAGEMENT PANEL (Fig. 7-5).
Fig. 7-5
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2. Select the unit you want to configure from the CONNECTED DATALOG list and
then click the SET IP ADDRESS button. Enter the password to open the Edit
network panel (Fig. 7-6).
Note: the default password is ‘controls’.
Fig. 7-6
3. Use the arrow buttons to increment/decrement the last two digits of the IP address.
To save the new address, click the Upload button and then confirm when
prompted.
4. A message will appear telling you to restart the logger. Click the OK button to
close the message and then close the Edit network panel.
5. Switch the DATALOG 8 unit off and on again using the power switch at the back of the
unit. The software now connects to the unit using its new address.
6. Close the CHANNEL MANAGEMENT PANEL to return to the MAIN PANEL.
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7.3.2 2 Editing th e ha rdw a re s etting s

shipping, the hardware settings will already be configured. If a transducer is moved to another
channel or is being used in a channel for the first time, the hardware settings of the channel
must be configured as follows:
Switching
NOTE:
the DATALOG 8 unit on with unsuitable hardware settings for the
connected transducers may cause equipment damage. The hardware settings
should be checked before connecting transducers. CONTROLS will not be held
responsible for equipment damage caused by the use of incorrect hardware
settings.
2. Select the unit you want to configure from the CONNECTED DATALOG list and
then click the VIEW HARDWARE SETTINGS button. Enter the password to open
the HARDWARE SETTINGS PANEL (Fig. 7-7).
3 4
Fig. 7-7
3. To change the input level, select an option (LOW (20 mV), HIGH (10 V), Current (0 -
20 mA) or uV (20 mV) from the drop-down list in line with the channel number. Refer to
section 5.8.3 for more information.
4. The channels are grouped into four pairs, with each pair having the same excitation voltage
(VEXC). To increase the VEXC for a pair of channels, tap the plus button adjacent to the
relevant pair. To decrease the VEXC, use the minus button. Refer to section 5.8.4 for
information.
5. Click the Upload button to send the settings to the unit and confirm when
prompted.
6. Close the HARDWARE SETTINGS PANEL and then close the CHANNEL
MANAGEMENT PANEL to return to the MAIN PANEL.
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7.3.3 3 Perfo rmin g a calib ration

shipping, provided they are connected to the correct channels, they don’t need to be calibrated
and are ready for use. However, they should be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are
still functioning correctly. Transducers must also be calibrated when they are first connected
to any channel they have not been calibrated in before.
For this procedure, you will need to have suitable reference equipment that is calibrated (and
preferably traceable) and has the same or higher capacity than the transducer.
Before starting, make sure the transducers are connected as described in section 3.4 and the
unit is switched on (see 6.1).
Fig. 7-8
2. Select the unit that the transducer you want to calibrate is connected to from the
CONNECTED DATALOG list and then click the VIEW CALIBRATIONS button.
Enter the password to open the CALIBRATION PANEL (Fig. 7-9).
3. Select the CHANNEL NUMBER that the transducer is connected to.
4. Click the EDIT CALIBRATION button and enter the password to unlock the panel
for editing.
5. If required, edit the TRANSDUCER DETAILS. (See 5.7.4 for information.)
6. Click the UNLOCK TABLE button to unlock the table.
7. If there’s already data in the table, click the CLEAR TABLE button to remove it.
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8. Click the ADD POINT button and put the transducer and the reference equipment
into position for the first calibration point (usually zero).
Fig. 7-9
9. In the Reference field that has appeared (Fig. 7-10), enter the reading of the
reference equipment. When the TRANSDUCER READING in divs is steady, click
the OK button to write the values to the table.
10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 for all the remaining points.

Note: a maximum of ten calibration points can be performed.
Fig. 7-10
11. When you’ve finished, click the UNLOCK TABLE button to lock the table.
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12. To save the calibration data in a text file that may be loaded back in at a later date,
click the SAVE CALIBRATION button.
Note: the data is saved in an individual folder according to the software-assigned channel
number (1-64) in the ‘data\Channels’ folder of the installation directory.
13. Send the new data to the unit by clicking the UPLOAD CALIBRATION button.
When the upload is complete (it will take a few seconds), the panel will be re-
locked.
14. If required, select another CHANNEL NUMBER to calibrate and repeat the procedure from
step 4.
15. Click the EXIT button to close the panel.
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7.3.4 4 Loading a p revious calib ra tion

Calibrations that have been saved as text files (see step 12 of section 7.3.3) can be loaded back
in to the software and uploaded to the unit, allowing multiple transducers to be assigned to the
same channel without recalibrating each time they are connected. For example, you might
have two load cells of different capacities that you want to connect to the same channel and
swap them according to the requirements of the test and/or the test specimen.
Note: archived calibration data should only be loaded into the same channel that was used to
perform the calibration.
1. Follow steps 1 to 4 of section 7.3.3 to access the CALIBRATION PANEL.
2. Click the LOAD CALIBRATION button. In the standard Windows Open File
dialogue box that appears, select the calibration file that you want to load and click
the OK button.
3. The TRANSDUCER DETAILS and CALIBRATION DATA can be edited, if required,

following steps 5 to 11 of section 7.3.3.
4. Send the data to the unit by clicking the UPLOAD CALIBRATION button. When the
upload is complete (it will take a few seconds), the panel will be re-locked.
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7.4 Managing transducer groups

Channels of any DATALOG 8 units connected to the PC can be grouped together, in any
combination, to create “test groups” so that each piece of testing equipment has a group of
channels that can be logged independently. This section describes how to create, edit and
delete those groups.
7.4.1 1 Adding a n ew g roup
1. Click the GROUP MANAGEMENT button on the MAIN PANEL to open the
GROUP MANAGEMENT PANEL (Fig. 7-11).
2. Click the ADD GROUP button to unlock the panel.
Fig. 7-11
3. Enter a name for the group and select a colour by clicking on the existing colour and
selecting a new one from the palette.
4. Click on whichever LOGGER CHANNELS you want to assign to the new group. When
selected, the group colour will be displayed in the cell.
Note: channels already assigned to other groups cannot be selected. To move a channel
from one group to another, it must be unassigned from the first group (see 7.4.3)
5. To save the new group, click the SAVE GROUP button and confirm when
prompted.
6. Close the GROUP MANAGEMENT PANEL to return to the MAIN PANEL.
7. The new group is displayed in the GROUP LIST (5.4.3).
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7.4.2 2 Del eting an exi stin g group
2. Select the group you want to delete from the EXISTING GROUPS list and then
click the DELETE GROUP button. Confirm when prompted.
Fig. 7-12
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7.4.3 3 Editing an exi stin g group
2. Select the group you want to delete from the EXISTING GROUPS list and then
click the EDIT GROUP button to unlock the panel.
4
2
Fig. 7-13
3. To change the name or the colour, simply edit the group name text and click on the existing
colour and select a new one from the palette.
4. To remove a channel assigned to the group, click on the channel in the LOGGER
CHANNELS area. The group colour is removed from the cell and the channel is now
available to be assigned to another group.
5. To add a channel to the group, click on the channel in the LOGGER CHANNELS area.
When selected, the group colour will be displayed in the cell.
6. To save the changes, click the SAVE GROUP button and confirm when prompted.
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7.5 Setting up transducers

7.5.1 1 Setting tran sducer l i mi ts
A minimum and maximum travel limit can be set for each channel. When the transducer is
reading within these limits during logging, the background of the transducer reading on the
TEST CONTROL PANEL is green. If the transducer reading goes below the minimum or
above the maximum, the background changes to red to warn the operator, who can then stop
the test, if necessary.
To set the limits, the transducer must be assigned to a transducer group. See section 7.4.
1. In the GROUP LIST (5.4.3) on the MAIN PANEL, double-click the group containing the
transducers you want to set limits for. The TEST SETUP PANEL will open (Fig. 7-14).
Fig. 7-14
2. Double-click on the row displaying the transducer you want to edit. The CHANNEL
SETTINGS PANEL (Fig. 7-15) will open. Edit the upper (maximum) limit and/or lower
(minimum) limit as required.
Note: the travel limits or capacity of a transducer can be found on the manufacturer’s
documentation.
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Fig. 7-15
3. Click the OK button to save the values and close the panel.
4. To return to the MAIN PANEL, click the close button in the top right corner of the
TEST SETUP PANEL.
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7.5.2 2Using a di spla ceme nt transducer to measure strain

Transducers that have been calibrated to measure in units of length (e.g. mm) can be set to
read in strain (, microstrain) as follows:
Note: this procedure is not applicable to strain gauges - for this type of measuring device see
7.5.3.
1. In the GROUP LIST (5.4.3) on the MAIN PANEL, double-click the group containing the
transducer you want to use to measure strain. The TEST SETUP PANEL will open (Fig.
7-16).
2. Double-click on the row displaying the transducer you want to use to measure strain. The
CHANNEL SETTINGS PANEL (Fig. 7-17) will open.
3. Move the Enable strain switch to the on (green) position.
4. In the Base length field, enter the reference length for calculating microstrain from the
transducer measurements. See section 5.10.2 for more information.

NOTE:
5. Click the OK button to save the settings and close the panel. The transducer is
now reading in .
Fig. 7-16
6. To return to the MAIN PANEL, click the close button in the top right corner of the
TEST SETUP PANEL.
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7.5.3 3 Using strain g aug es

Follow steps 1 to 3 of section 7.5.2 to open the CHANNEL SETTINGS PANEL and switch
the strain calculation on. Enter the Bridge configuration and Gauge factor (Fig. 7-17) and
then follow steps 5 and 6 of section 7.5.2.
Fig. 7-17
Refer to section 6.3.4 for information about strain gauges.
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7.6 Running a test

Before starting, make sure the transducers are connected as described in section 3.4, and
calibrated (see 7.3.3), and the unit and software are running (see 6.1 and 7.1).
1. In the GROUP LIST (5.4.3) on the MAIN PANEL, double-click the group that you want
to use for the test. The TEST SETUP PANEL (Fig. 7-18) will open.
2. Select suitable logging interval parameters to achieve the data logging rate required for
the test, or load in a table of pre-defined intervals. See 5.9.3 for details.
Fig. 7-18
3. Select any conditions you want to use to trigger the start and end of the test, and edit the
values, if required. See 5.9.4 and 5.9.5 for details. If you want to start and stop the logging
manually, make sure none of the options are ticked.
4. Make sure the transducers are all in position for the test start. If you want to apply a zero
offset to one or all of the transducers, double-click on the row displaying the transducer
you want to offset to open the CHANNEL SETTINGS PANEL (Fig. 7-19). To set the
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selected transducer to zero, click the Zero button. To set all the transducers in the group
to zero, click the Zero all button. Transducer limits and strain measurement are also set
up in this panel - see section 7.5. Click the OK button to save the settings and close the
panel.
Fig. 7-19
5. Click the START TEST BUTTON and, in the standard Windows Save File
dialogue box that appears, select a location and enter a filename for saving the
data. Click the OK button to close the window and start the test. The TEST
CONTROL PANEL (Fig. 7-20) will open.
Note: the default location for test data files is the ‘data\Log’ folder of the installation
directory. Data are saved in a tab-separated .txt file.
6. If you selected any start conditions in step 3, logging will start when one of the conditions
is true, whichever one occurs first (if you selected more than one).
7. To view logged data plotted on a graph, select the VIEW GRAPH button. The
GRAPH PANEL (Fig. 7-21) will open. See section 5.12 for information about the
functions on the panel.
8. To view logged data in a table, select the VIEW TABLE button. The DATA
TABLE PANEL (Fig. 7-22) will open. See section 5.13 for information about the
functions on the panel.
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Fig. 7-20
Fig. 7-21
9. If you need to take an extra reading at any time, click the MANUAL LOG button on
the TEST CONTROL PANEL , the DATA TABLE PANEL or the GRAPH
PANEL.
10. If you selected any end conditions in step 3, logging will stop automatically when
one of the conditions is true, whichever one occurs first (if you selected more than
one). To stop the logging manually, select the STOP TEST button on the TEST
CONTROL PANEL (you will be asked to confirm).
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Fig. 7-22
Note: multiple tests can be run simultaneously by repeating the above procedure for other
transducer groups. If required, the TEST CONTROL PANELs of all the active groups can
be arranged on the desktop in order to monitor the progress of all the tests.
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7.7 Reviewing a previous test
1. Click the REVIEW button on the MAIN PANEL to open the REVIEW PANEL
(Fig. 7-23).
Fig. 7-23
2. Click the OPEN FILE button and, in the standard Windows Open File dialogue box
that appears, locate the file for the test you want to load in and click the OK
button.
3. To view the data plotted on the GRAPH PANEL (5.12), click the VIEW GRAPH
button. The panel will open in review mode, with some features (related to a live
test) disabled.
4. To view the data plotted on the DATA TABLE PANEL (5.13), click the VIEW
TABLE button. The panel will open in review mode, with some features (related to
a live test) disabled. The data cannot be changed but comments can be added, if
required, in the Note column.
5. To return to the REVIEW PANEL from the GRAPH PANEL or the DATA TABLE
PANEL, click the BACK button.
6. Click the EXIT button to close the REVIEW PANEL.

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7.8 Closing the software
The software can’t be closed while a test is running. Make sure all tests are stopped
and then close all the panels, finally closing the MAIN PANEL. Confirm when
prompted.
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8. MAINTENANCE
As with all electrical equipment, this unit must be used correctly, and maintenance and
inspections must be performed at regular intervals. Such precautions will guarantee the safe
and efficient functioning of the equipment.
Periodic maintenance consists of inspections made directly by the test operator and/or by the
authorized service personnel.
Maintenance to the equipment is the responsibility of the purchaser and must be performed as
stated in this chapter.
Failing to perform the recommended maintenance actions or maintenance performed by
unauthorized people can void the warranty.
WARNING:
WARNING:
WARNING:
Avoid spilling water or other liquids, even accidentally, onto electrical
equipment, as this could cause short circuits. Before cleaning the equipment,
disconnect it from the mains power.
WARNING:
WARNING:
Failing to perform the recommended maintenance actions or maintenance
performed by unauthorized people can void the warranty.
CONTROLS will not be responsible for maintenance and service actions
performed by unauthorized people.
WARNING:
When operating with the covers open/removed and the unit attached to the mains
power, care must be taken as high voltage is present in some parts of the unit.
Only authorized and qualified service technicians are allowed to open/remove
covers.
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WARNING:
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8.1 Operator’s preventive maintenance
Inspections should be made directly by the operator according to the table below.
Action When
Check to ensure that there is no external damage Before every working session
to the equipment, which could jeopardise the
safety of use
Check to ensure that there is no water on or
around the electrical components
Check all the transducer connections
Check that all the system transducers are within
calibration
General inspection Weekly
Check that all labels and rating plates are intact
and properly attached
Recalibrate transducers At regular intervals in accordance with
in-house procedures
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9. DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING

This section provides information on the diagnostic tools present in the system, and on the
troubleshooting of the most common problems.
Depending on the problem encountered, troubleshooting should be carried out by dividing the
system into functional blocks. Systematically eliminate the blocks as the cause of the problem
by checking that each one is working correctly.
WARNING:
WARNING:
WARNING:
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9.1 Diagnostics
The LAN port on the back of the DATALOG 8 has an LED that monitors the status of the
connection to the PC. The functions of the LED are described in the table below.
Function / Colour Status Meaning Possible reasons for

location anomalous conditions
Activity / Orange ON Unit is connected  Unit is switched off
back of unit to the PC  PC is switched off
 RJ45 cable is damaged or
FLASHING Device is
unplugged
communicating
with the PC
OFF Unit is
disconnected
from the PC
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9.2 Troubleshooting
The table below provides a list of possible causes and checks in case a faulty hardware
condition is encountered.
Type of fault Possible actions

DATALOG 8 has no  Make sure that the power switch of the unit is on and the
power power supply to the unit is on
 Check that the fuse has not blown (see Fig. 2-1 on page 13)
 Check that the power supply is of the correct quality (section
3.3)
Transducer reading  Check that the transducer is connected securely to the correct
incorrectly or not channel (section 3.4) and the cable is not damaged
responding  Make sure that the calibration data is correct (section 4.5.1)
 Check that the hardware settings are appropriate (section
4.5.2)
 The transducer or channel may be faulty; contact
CONTROLS service department
Test does not start  Check the start conditions and logging mode (4.3.2, 4.3.3)
82-P9008 Rev.2 EN 142 02/11/2015

DATALOG 8
Instruction Manual
Notes:
02/11/2015 143 82-P9008 Rev.2 EN

DATALOG 8
Instruction Manual
Notes:
82-P9008 Rev.2 EN 144 02/11/2015

DATALOG 8
Instruction Manual
Notes:
02/11/2015 145 82-P9008 Rev.2 EN

82-P9008-Rev2-EN - 02.11.2015

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82-P9008

2. DATALOG 8 OPERATOR INTERFACE 25

4. INSTALLATION AND SETUP 20

4.6 Title bar .............................................................................................................................51

6. USING THE DATALOG 8 92

6.4.4 Deleting an existing group ........................................................................................... 125

8. DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING 140

8.3 Info ................................................................................................................................... 50

9. USING THE DATACOMM 2 SOFTWARE 114

This manual is published by CONTROLS.

This manual in English is the original version. Printed in Italy.

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This manual is arranged in the following way:

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1.1 Icons appearing in the manual

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1.2 Conventions and terminology

The following conventions are used throughout the manual:

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1.3 Manual revision history

Revision / Date Change description

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1.4 Symbols used

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1.5 Intended and proper use

The equipment should only be used as described in this manual.

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1.6 Safety information

CONTROLS will not be held responsible for:

The equipment is not designed to be used in an explosive atmosphere.

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Personnel Area with residual risks

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Below is a list of all the warnings present in this manual.

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1.7 Environmental risks and disposal

INFORMATION FOR THE OWNER OF THE EQUIPMENT

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2.1 Main features

 Adjustable 5.7” touchscreen colour graphic display

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2.2 Technical specifications

 Power supply: 110-230 V, 50-60 Hz, 1 ph

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2.3 Hardware specifications

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2.4 Connection and control

The following connections are located at the back of the unit:

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Pin number Pin number Description

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2.5 Identification plate

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3. INSTALLATION AND SETUP

The information in this chapter is intended for service-trained personnel.

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3.1 Unpacking and inspection

The DATALOG 8 comprises:

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3.2 Placement of the system