€xplorer FT

User Manual

Electronic Volume Conversion Device

User Manual
Edition Revision Issued
1 3 14/02/2003
 €xplorer FT
User Manual

Table of Contents

1. Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Product range 4
2. Technical Data...........................................................................................................................................5
2.1 Environmental 5
2.2 Mechanical 5
2.2.1 Pressure plug-in( P1, P2) 5
2.2.2 Temperature 5

2.3 Hardware Architecture 5

2.3.1 Software Real Time Clock 5

2.4 Measurement 5
2.4.1 Pressure P1 5
2.4.2 Pressure P2 6
2.4.3 Temperature 6
2.4.4 Counter Inputs ( DIN7 / Count 1, DIN8/Count 2) 6

2.5 Digital inputs 6

2.6 Digital Outputs 6
2.7 Power supply 7
2.7.1 Battery operation ( 1 or 2 battery packs ) 7
2.7.2 Remote power supply 7
2.7.3 Back- up battery 7

3. Principle of operation ...............................................................................................................................8

3.1 Acquisition 8
3.1.1 Events and Alarms 8

3.2 Calculation 8
3.2.1 Correction of Volume at measurement conditions (Vc) 8
3.2.2 Volume at Base Conditions (Vb) 8
3.2.3 Compressibility Gas Factor (Z) 9
3.2.4 Flow Rate (Q) 9

3.3 Digital Outputs 10

3.4 Data Logging 10
3.5 Communication 10
3.6 Man Machine Interface 10
4. Installation ...............................................................................................................................................11
4.1 Block diagram / External Connection 11
4.2 Electrical Characteristics / IS Parameters 12
4.3 Marking 12
4.4 Safety Instructions for installation in Hazardous area 12
4.5 Fixing the apparatus 12
4.6 Installation procedure 13
4.7 Electrical connection diagram 13

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User Manual

4.8 Power on 14
4.9 Power off 14
4.10 Recommendation 14
5. Man Machine Interface............................................................................................................................15
5.1 Display and Keyboard 15
5.1.1 STATUS 0 – Default 15
5.1.2 STATUS D – Display 15
5.1.3 Status S1 - Settings / security level 1 16
5.1.4 Status S2 - Settings / security level 2 16
5.1.5 Status SC - Settings confirmation 17
5.1.6 Menu structure 18
5.1.7 Faulty conditions 21

5.2 Optical port 21

5.3 Remote communication 22
6. Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................23
6.1 Ordinary maintenance 23
6.2 Corrective maintenance 23
6.3 Troubleshooting 23
6.3.1 The apparatus doesn’t turn on 23
6.3.2 Pressure measurement doesn’t work 23
6.3.3 Temperature measurement doesn’t work 23
6.3.4 Digital outputs do not work 23
6.3.5 Serial communication doesn’t work 23
6.3.6 IrDA communication doesn’t work 23

7. X_Term Software....................................................................................................................................24
7.1 Introduction 24
7.2 Operating instructions 24

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1. Introduction
€xplorer is a family of products dedicated to the measurement and volume conversion of natural gas.
This document refers to €xplorer FT version, defined as “Electronic Volume Conversion Device” EVCD, according to EN 12405 definition.
Next sections provide detailed information on technical data , installation and user procedures.

1.1 Product range

€xplorer FT correctors are available in a wide selection of models, depending on assembly options, as follows::
- no battery pack (requires remote supply)
- 1 battery pack
- 2 battery pack
and on the full scale range of the integrated pressure sensors P1 and P2:
- 2 bar abs
- 3.5 bar abs
- 7 bar abs
- 10 bar abs
- 21 bar abs
- 35 bar gauge
- 75 bar gauge
As a result product code is defined as follows:
1° character: model:
B = €xplorer FT
2° character: primary battery packs
0 = no Battery pack
1 = 1 Battery pack
2 = 2 Battery pack
3° character: back-up battery
1 = Back-up battery installed
4° character: user memory
2 = 256Kb user memory
5° character: type of electrical connections to the associated apparatus
C = Sockets connection
M = Terminal block connection
6° character: pressure 1 sensor features
0 = no Pressure sensor
A = Pressure sensor Model 82, 86, 87 or equivalent
B = Pressure sensor PDCR 2200 or equivalent
7° character: indicate pressure 2 sensor mounted
0 = no Pressure sensor
A = Pressure sensor Model 82, 86, 87 or equivalent
B = Pressure sensor PDCR 2200 or equivalent
C = Pressure sensor PDCR 1000 or equivalent
8° character: temperature sensor
0 = no temperature sensor
T = PT100 sensor

Example:
B112MB0T Explorer FT ,1 battery pack , 1 back-up battery, 256K RAM, terminal block connection,
1 pressure sensor PCDR 2200 and PT100 sensor

Properly identify your product by checking C.I. number !

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2. Technical Data
2.1 Environmental
• Temperature range : -20 + 60 °C
• Classified : IP65 / IP55 (Gauge Pressure measurement ) (EN 60529)

2.2 Mechanical
• Mounting : Wall and Pole
• Dimension : 155 x 157 x 82 mm
• Case : Aluminium UNI 5075 (EN 46000)
2.2.1 Pressure plug-in( P1, P2)
• Material: Inox steel AISI
• Threated: ISO7/1 RC conic female
• Wrenches: Key CH20

2.2.2 Temperature
• 3m armoured cable
• ½” GAS Cylindric female (ISO 228/1)
• Thermoelement: Ø 8 / L 180 mm

2.3 Hardware Architecture

€xplorer is based on a very low power micro controller architecture, which integrates most of the peripherals and input/output capabilities
for enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Microprocessor
o 16 bit CPU core
o 3 USART
o 10 bit ADC – 8 channels
o SW Real Time Clock and Calendar
o 256k FLASH memory
o 20k RAM memory
• 256 kbyte RAM
• 24 bit S? Analog to Digital Converter
• Precision Voltage Reference
• Temperature error compensation

2.3.1 Software Real Time Clock

The €xplorer series apparatus manage the internal clock
• Accuracy : 5 minute / year@20°C
• Daylight Saving Time ( DST) : Upon user selection

2.4 Measurement
The gas pressure acquisitions can be performed with up to two pressure sensors.
In the FT series there is one pressure input P1 dedicated to Gas Pressure measurement ( Vb calculation) and an optional second Gas
Pressure sensor P2 to support either outlet pressure measurement or other equivalent measures for remote surveillance applications.
Temperature sensor (T) is provided according to C.I. code .
€xplorer FT performs direct connection to Gas Flow meter fro Volume measurement acquisition (Vm)

2.4.1 Pressure P1
• Sensor type: Silicon Pressure transducer with steel pressure media diaphragm
• Accuracy : 0,1% of Reading (20 to 100% FS)
• Stability : 0,1% FS / year

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• Temperature drift : ± 0,1 % of Reading (-25 + 60 °C)

• Ranges: 2, 3,5, 7, 10, 21 bar Abs / 35, 75 bar Gauge
• Pressure Overload : 200%
2.4.2 Pressure P2
• Accuracy : 0,25% FOS
• Stability : 0,1% FS / year
• Temperature drift : ± 3 % FOS (-20 + 60 °C)
• Ranges: 2, 3,5, 7, 10, 21 bar Abs / 35, 75 bar Gauge
• Pressure Overload : 200%

2.4.3 Temperature
• Type : 4-wire PT100 Class A platinum thermoelement
• Accuracy : ± 0,15 °C
• Temperature drift : ± 0,1 °C ( -20 +60 °C)
• Measurement Range : -20 + 50 °C

2.4.4 Counter Inputs ( DIN7 / Count 1, DIN8/Count 2)

• Interface : Voltage free contacts
• Type : BF ( 2Hz), HF ( 5kHz)
• Connection: Ø 1,5 mm² armoured cable
• Distance : max 3 m
• Pulse weight : upon user selection
DIN7 ( Count1 ) and DIN8 ( Count2 ) are always configured as counter inputs; one input only can be active at the same time, according to
user selection ( please Refer to Man Machine Interface Section).
These inputs are dedicated to volume measurement ( Vm )

2.5 Digital inputs

The €xplorer FT series have 2 general purpose digital inputs (DIN1,2) that are accessible at the internal terminal blocks, to support
application such as remote monitoring of contact status, ending switches, etc.

• Interface : Voltage-free contacts

• Connection: Refer to the internal label.
• “Open state” impedance: > 500KΩ
• “Close state” impedance: < 200Ω

2.6 Digital Outputs

€xplorer family comes with 2 multi-functional digital outputs available at the internal terminal block.

• Interface : “Open-drain”:
• Connection: Refer to the internal label.
• Maximum Voltage: 6.5 V
• Output Impedance : 44 Ω ± 5%
• Maximum cuurent : 110mA
• “Open state” impedance: > 500KΩ
• “Close state” impedance: <= 50 Ω

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2.7 Power supply

€xplorer FT comes with a number of battery packs identified by product code; in case no battery pack is provided device shall be powered
by an external power supply.

2.7.1 Battery operation ( 1 or 2 battery packs )

Each single battery pack has the following characteristics:
• Battery type: Lithium battery non rechargeable type 3.6V size “D” 16 Ah molded in the pack
• Protection: Non resettable fuse molded in the pack
• Battery life : 1 “battery pack”/ 3 years - 2 “battery pack” / 5 years *
• Replacement: even in the Hazardous area ( use certified battery pack only – contact your distributor )

(*) Average Temperature 20° C, weekly communication of 1 minute @ 9600Bd, pulse frequency = 5 kHz.

2.7.2 Remote power supply

The €xplorer Corrector FT (remotely powered) series might be powered by a remote external apparatus through a cable to the terminal
block “External power”.The electrical characteristics of this input are:

• Max consumption: 20 mA
• Max admitted voltage: 6.5 V
• Minimum admitted voltage: 5V

2.7.3 Back- up battery

The €xplorer series have a back-up battery to provide data retention while external power fails or main battery pack is being replaced.
To activate data retention feature switch “battery back-up” on (refer to the “Installation ” chapter ).
• Type: Lithium type 3.6 V size ½ AA 1.2 Ah
• Data retention time: 6 months

Notice
Devices and interfaces to be connected to €xplorer shall be EEx certified; Intrinsic Safety (IS)
parameters shall comply with Explorer IS certification data.
Pietro Fiorentini is not responsible for any Hazardous risk otherwise invoked.

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Technical data may subject to change without notice
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3. Principle of operation
€xplorer FT Products are suitable to installation in hazardous area (CENELEC Zone 0 , IIB T4 / NEC Class I, Division 1, Group C ) for direct
connection to primary element ( Gas meter or Turbine ) and acquisition of operating Pressure and Temperature by means of integrated
transducers.

3.1 Acquisition
Input variables, such as Pressure, Temperature, Status and Counter inputs are being updated every 30 seconds; to provide faster response
time whenever required, acquisition period is set to to 1 second while either man machine interface or serial communication is active.

3.1.1 Events and Alarms

Specific functional module provides €xplorer with the capability of generating events and alarms upon user defined conditions, such as
threshold trespassing for analog variables, variations of status contacts, etc.
Each variable can be independently configured to generate either an event or an alarm, or both; events and alarms are stored in a separate
buffer which can contain up to 1000 positions.
Upon detection of an alarm condition, €xplorer initiates in-bound call process, according to related setup.
Function setup is performed through communication ports, by means of X_Term software.

3.2 Calculation
3.2.1 Correction of Volume at measurement conditions (Vc)
€xplorer FT performs automatic correction of gas meter error, by applying the following formula:

100
Vc = Vm ×
100 + Err %
Where:
Vc = Corrected Volume at Operating Conditions
Vm = Measured Volume at Operating Conditions
Err% = Meter Error Percentage at working frequency

As a result Correction Factor Cf is defined as follows:

100
Cf = Vc / Vm =
100 + Err %
Whenever gas meter error correction shall apply, operator is being asked to enter related setup parameters, as follows:
Qmin = minimum gas flow rate
Qmax = maximum gas flow rate
Err% / Q ( 10 couples) = gas meter error percentage ( Err%) at the defined flow rate ( Q), as percentage of Qmax ( Qmax%).
Correction applies within the defined range only, while actual gas meter error is calculated according to actual flow rate Q, as a result of
linear interpolation upon the entered curve.
When no setup is performed Err% is by default set at 0 , so that Vc= Vm.
No correction applies whenever input frequency < 10 Hz and Q = Qmin , while correction factor remains at the value obtained for Qmax
when Q = Qmax.

3.2.2 Volume at Base Conditions (Vb)

€xplorer FT basically performs Measured Volume (Vm) conversion to Volume at reference conditions ( base conditions, Vb) by applying
AGA7 formula, as follows:

p tb + To Z
Vb = Vc × × ×
pb t + To Zb
where:
Vb = Volume at reference conditions
Vc = Volume corrected at operating conditions
p = Operating Gas pressure
pb = Reference Pressure
t = Operating Gas temperature
tb = Reference Temeperature

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To = Absolute Temperature conversion factor (273,15°K)

Z = Compressibility factor at operating conditions
Zb = Compressibility factor at reference conditions

As a result of calculation above conversion factor C is defined as follows:

p tb + To Z
C = Vb / Vc = × ×
pb t + To Zb

3.2.3 Compressibility Gas Factor (Z)

Compressibility Gas factor (Z) is calculated according to selected algorithm, as follows :
− AGA-NX19mod
− ISO12213-3 : 1997 (SGERG91)
− AGA8 gross 1
− AGA8 gross 2

Range of input paramiter for each selected formula are reported in the following:
AGA-NX19mod:
Relative density = 0.554 - 1.00
Carbon dioxide = 0 - 15%
Nitrogen = 0 - 15%

ISO12213-3:
Relative density = 0.55 - 0.9
Heating value = 20 - 48Mj/m^3
Carbon dioxide = 0 - 30%
Hydrogen = 0 - 10%

AGA8 gross 1 and gross 2:

Relative density = 0.55 - 0.87
Heating value = 16.65 - 45.12 MJ/m^3
Carbon dioxide = 0 - 30%
Hydrogen = 0 - 10%
Nitrogen = 0 - 15%
Carbon monoxide = 0 - 30%

Compressibility algorithm is performed only if gas analisys paramiter and input sensor (pressure and temperature) are in a valid range.
Outside the valid range faulty condition is detected and Volume at base condition are not computed.

Acquisition of new measures and calculation is performed every 30 seconds.

3.2.4 Flow Rate (Q)

Explorer FT performs calculation of Hourly Gas flow rate (Q) as a result of either volume acquisition or calculation, as follows:
Qm = f (Vm)
Qc = f (Vc)
Qb = f ( Vb)
In order to provide effective flow rate measurement, algorithm being used depends on type of input signal, as follows:
• Low Frequency (Max 2 Hz)
While Flow rate calculation is performed every 30 seconds , in order to provide a stable measurement even for very low frequency inputs,
pulses are integrated in a period of 5 minutes.
As a result hourly flow rate Q is computed multiplying the pulses computed in the last 5 minutes for 12, as follows:
(n-10)
Q = Sn Vn(30) * 12, where Vn(30) are the volume computed in the considered 30” period.
The formula above applies to Vm, Vc and Vb for the calculation of Qm,.Qc and Qb respectively.
• High Frequency (Max 5 kHz)
Since input frequency is supposed to allow better resolutions, hourly flow rate is simply calculated every 30 seconds follows:
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Q = Vn(30) * 120 , where Vn(30) are the volume computer in the last 30” period.
The formula above applies to Vm, Vc and Vb for the calculation of Qm,.Qc and Qb respectively.

3.3 Digital Outputs

€xplorer family comes with 2 multi-functional digital outputs available at the internal terminal block.
Each output can be configured to support the following features:
• Volume repetition
Digital output acts as pulse repeater, providing remote transmission of measured (DOUT1 Vm) and computed volume (DOUT2 Vb).
According to user setup, pulse weight may be selected between 1, 10, 100 and 1000 m3/pulse.
• Remote Commands
Status of the output is set according to commands received on the communication ports, to support remote output management.
Commands may drive either permanently the outputs ON/OFF or be associated with parameters, such as duration and period, to support
timed activations.
• Diagnostic Status
Digital output repeats the status of a selected bit in the Diagnostic word of €xplorer.
Information to be repeated is being defined by the user, during device setup.

Digital Outputs setup is performed by means of local configuration Software X_Term (Please refer to specific section for further details);
each output can be independently configured to perform one of the above functions, providing enhanced flexibility and effectiveness.

3.4 Data Logging

Computed and acquired variables, such as P1, P2, Temperature, Vm, Vb, Qm, Qb and Diagnostic information can be selected for data
logging according to user selectable parameters.
Data logging configuration is performed by means of Local Communication Software X_Term and applies to the following list of parameters:
• Period : 1 second up to 12 h ( second resolution) , daily ( user selection = -1) and monthly (user selection = -2)
• Strategy : Average, Statistics (min, max, s )

Data Storage is greater than 100.000 records ( Single Variable, Average Strategy) giving unlimited logging capability. Memory
management can be selected in order to either stop logging upon memory buffer filling or keep on logging and rewriting older data.

3.5 Communication
Communication with €xplorer FT takes place through local Infrared Interface (IrDA) and serial communication port Serial A.
Supported communication protocol is Modbus ASCII Slave , 9600,7,e,1.
Remote communication with external modem is supported through associated ancillary equipment (TeleSender family)
Serial communication port SERB is made available to support custom applications.

3.6 Man Machine Interface

Simple and fully guided man machine interface supports data display and setup in 4 different languages :
• English, French, Spanish, Italian
Data setup of parameters relevant to metrological computations is protected by means of seals and password, in order to avoid unverified
modifications of calculation parameters.
MMI also supports selection of measurement units for each single variable, among the most common ones ( International, Imperial)
Please refer to specific section for further details.

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4. Installation
€xplorer FT is suitable to installation in hazardous area and complies with the requirements of protection type EEx ia IIB T4 (intrinsic
safety).
Installation prescriptions are reprted in the following sections.

4.1 Block diagram / External Connection

At the external connections of the apparatus are connected the following devices:
In Hazardous Area:
• Temperature sensor (PT100) installed on Gas pipe line
• Gas Meters, Turbines as above
• Pressure sensors (1 or 2) measuring Gas pressure from pipe line
In Safe Area:
• Remote power supply (Associated Apparatus with separate certificate) (i.e TeleSender)
• Associated Apparatus for serial interface;
• Associated Apparatus for digital signals.

All the models can be supplied by 1 or 2 battery packages, having the same electrical characteristics (see model identification), and/or a
remote power supply (associated apparatus) .

The associated apparatus connected to the external circuits shall be certified according to EN 50014/ 50020 standards.

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4.2 Electrical Characteristics / IS Parameters

The intrinsic safety parameters of the electrical connection are the following:

Uo (V) Io (mA) Po (mW) Co (uF) Lo (mH) Ui (V) Ii (mA) Pi (mW) Ci (uF) Li (mH)

Supply input 7.14 171 305 14.5 1 15 110 413 ˜0 ˜0

Digital output 7.14 171 305 14.5 1 15 110 413 ˜0 ˜0

Serial interface 7.14 6.5 11 14.5 500 15 110 413 ˜0 ˜0

Digital input 7.14 6.5 11 15.5 500 15 110 413 ˜0 ˜0

140mm

43mm

4.3 Marking
II 1 G , EEx ia IIB T4, Tamb: - 20 °C ÷ + 60 °C

• II group II (surface)
• 1 CATEGORY 1 APPARATUS
• G explosive atmospheres with caused by gas, mists or vapours
• EEx ia IIB T4 type of protection, gas group, temperature class
• Tamb: - 20 °C ÷ + 60 °C Ambient temperature - 20 °C ÷ + 60 °C

Hazardous area Categories according to 94/9/CE Directive

Gas, mists or vapours Zone 0 1G
Gas, mists or vapours Zone 1 2G
Gas, mists or vapours Zone 2 3G

4.4 Safety Instructions for installation in Hazardous area

Explorer series devices shall be installed & maintained according to the applicable standards regarding electrical installations in hazardous
area.

4.5 Fixing the apparatus

On the top side of the apparatus there are two buttonholes to fix it on a vertical surface through two screws or to wall-screw. The screw
diameter is 4mm and the distance between them is 125mm.

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4.6 Installation procedure

After fixing the apparatus, it has to be connect to the gas system:
1. Connect the system-earth to the earth-peg on the bottom side of the apparatus. It is a 4mm diameter brass screw on the left side
2. Connect the gas pressure inputs to the pipe: make attention that max pipe pressure is lower then the max input pressure of the
Explorer Inputs ( read the labels under the inputs). For further information, please refer “Technical Data” chapter.

Notice!
The pressure sensor is electrically connect to the earth-peg: to avoid short circuits of Cathodic
differential voltage isolation junction shall be provided.

3. If present place the temperature sensor in the temperature-trap and fix it: for further information, please refer to “Technical Data”
chapter
4. Open the Explorer portal unscrewing the screw on the right side.
5. If you need to connect external signal to the terminal blocks, follow this step:
a. Unscrew the cable glands and thread the cable in it
b. If you prefer, extract the terminal blocks to permit a comfortable wiring
c. Connect the wires to the terminal blocks: giving attention to their position: please refer to label inside the Explorer portal
d. If you have unplugged the terminal block, plug they in the right position
e. Tighten the cable glands to assure the impermeability
f. If the apparatus in power by a remote supply, assure that this last device is on.
6. Switch on the Explorer Corrector: refer to “Power-ON and Power-OFF” chapter
7. Verify the correct working of the apparatus
8. Close the Explorer portal and if necessary, seal the screw of the portal, the pressure sensor and the frontal using the hole in the screws

4.7 Electrical connection diagram

Corrector series connection example: refer to the internal portal label.

Solar Sender

Safe Area

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4.8 Power on
To turn on the apparatus:
• Insert the jumper “Back-up Battery Enable” (to enable the SRAM’s memory’s back-up battery)
• Device is powered as soon as either battery packs or remote power supply are connected.

4.9 Power off

€xplorer automatically powers off whenever both main Battery and Remote power supply are not present.
Data and RTC alignment are retained by means of back-up battery.

Notice!
Data retention is provided by means of back-up battery . Make sure that related jumper is closed before
removing main power supply (Battery pack and Remote power supply).

When device is not powered (and back-battery is enabled) €xplorer displays the following page:

* POWER *
* OFF *

While in this condition data and RTC alignment are maintained till main power turns on again; power source verification is automatically
performed every 30 sec; it can be activated by pressing any button of €xplorer keyboard.

4.10 Recommendation
• Verify that all the “Installation condition“ before proceeding with installation of the apparatus and connect it to the gas line
• Whenever maintenance is required please follow the Power-ON and Power-OFF procedure

Notice!
Pietro Fiorentini S.p.A. does not assume any responsibility for an incorrect use of the device.

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5. Man Machine Interface

5.1 Display and Keyboard
The Man Machine interface of the €xplorer family is built upon the simply usage of the local 16 keys keyborad and 2x16 characters LCD
display.
To facilitate navigation and enhance overall manageability, function keys assume different meanings, consistently with operational
conditions.
The information reported in the following describe the defined MMI status and related operations allowed.
Association of each menu page to the related status is encompassed in the "Menu Structure" section of the present document.

5.1.1 STATUS 0 – Default

The €xplorer enters this status at the power on and 30 seconds after a push button has been pressed.
While in this status €xplorer displays the date, the volume at base conditions and general diagnostic information.

As a result , few symbols might be displayed in the right corner of the display, as follows:

general alarm (pressure , temperature, compressibility out of range)

Battery low
Remote power supply on
Serial interface active
IrDA interface active

Symbols are displayed in the default page only, with exception of alarm flag which is displayed beside variable generating the fault
condition.

Key function

if "Enter" has been pressed increases LCD contrast

if "Enter" has been pressed decreases LCD contrast; otherwise enters “Measurement” menu

if "Enter" has been pressed disable LCD modifications; otherwise is not active
ESC

Not active
CLR

Enable LCD contrast modifications ( see "arrows" keys); LCD contrast modifications are accepted within the next 5
ENTER
seconds

0–9 Not active

5.1.2 STATUS D – Display

While in this status €xplorer allows data display and modifications of the related measurement unit.
Key function

Returns to previous page; while changing measurement unit scrolls up possible selections.

Goes to next menu page;while changing measurement unit scrolls down possible selections.

Abandon present menu and returns to upper level

ESC

Not active
CLR

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If <ENTER> is displayed enters the proposed menu section;

ENTER
If numeric value is displayed enables measurement unit selection

0–9 Not active

5.1.3 Status S1 - Settings / security level 1

To prevent unahutorised data access, different security levels have been implemented, according to the specific data security requirements.
Modification rights for data protected by security level 1 are granted by means of password identification.
Setup of parameters belonging to security level 1 are performed according to indications reported in this section, as follows:
whenever user asks for the modification of parameters protected by security level 1 the following page is displayed:

Enter
Password

Password is a numeric code with a lenght of 4 digits; press “enter” to insert the password. if password is not recognised the message
"password error" is diplayed for three seconds,then password query is repeated; after three consecutive errors €xplorer returns to the
"default" page.
After having entered the password once the user is enabled to modify all "S1" parameters, till €xplorer returns to the "default" status, either
due to time out expiration (15") or following user indications.
Default password value is “0000”.

Key function

Returns to previous page.

Goes to next page.

Abandon present menu and returns to upper level

ESC

Clear value
CLR

If <ENTER> is displayed enters the proposed menu section;

ENTER
If parameter is displayed enables data setup and clear

0–9 Active during data setup

5.1.4 Status S2 - Settings / security level 2

Level 2 data access is granted upon removing security seals and pressing "PUL1" button. If you don’t press "PUL1" button before push
“Enter”, the following page is displayed:

Access denied
Remove seals

After having passed through identification procedure described above, modifications of both S1 and S2 parameters are allowed for a
minimum period of 2 minutes.
Time out is retriggered whenever a function key is pressed.

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Key function

Returns to previous page.

Goes to next page.

Abandon present menu and returns to upper level

ESC

Clear value
CLR

If <ENTER> is displayed enters the proposed menu section;

ENTER
If parameter is displayed enables data setup and clear

0–9 Active during data setup

5.1.5 Status SC - Settings confirmation

€xplorer enters this status at the end of a setup session, if modifications were performed only, either scrolling all S1/S2 parameters of a
specific menu or pressing "ESC" while in S1 or S2 status.
If no modifications were performed the SC status is skipped, as described in the "structure" section of this document.
If SC status is entered the following page is displayed:

Confirm
SC0 changes?
"ENTER" confrim the modification previously performed, while all other keys invoke display of the following
page:

Leave
SC1 setup?
Pressing the "ENTER" key all modifications performed will be ignored. Any other key make €xplorer to return
to SC0 page

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5.1.6 Menu structure

The following is the table of level 1 menu, :

Level 1
default status Main Page
dd Mmm yyyy 0 Down Level 2
Vb 000000000 m3

ESC Measurement D
<ENTER> ESC
Up-Down ENTER Edit
Measurement
ESC Settings D

<ENTER>
Up-Down ENTER View
Settings
ESC Sistem info D

<ENTER>
Up-Down ENTER View
Sistem info

STATUS:
0 : Default status
D : Status Display
S1 : Status settings/security level 1
S2 : Status settings/security level 2
SC : Settings configuration

Descriptions of sub-menus is provided in the following.

5.1.6.1 Measurement:

1. Vb Base Volume (D) = base volume,

2. Vm Meas. Volume (D) = measured volume,
3. Vc Corr. Volume (D) = corrected volume,
4. Ve Error Volume (D) = measured volume in faulty conditions,
5. Alarms (S1) = list of alarms, shows the flag of the alarms:
a. local modifications of parameters with security level 1
b. local modifications of parameters with security level 2
c. remote configuration level 1
d. remote configuration level 2
e. low battery
f. general alarm
g. alarm of P1
h. alarm of P2
i. alarm of T
j. clock error (time shift > 10 min)
k. calibration performed

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l. Error in Z factor calculation (Pressure, temperature or gas analisyis out of range for the
used formula)

Clearing of alarms is performed at security level S1 (Password identification ) by pressing

”Clr” key.

Alarm code is bit – mapped and represented in Hexadecimal notation according to the
following schema:
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
| | | |__ na | | | |__ i | | | |__ e | | | |___ a
| | |____ na | | |____ j | | |____ f | | |_____ b
| |______ na | |______ k | |______ g | |_______ c
|________ na |_________l |________ h |_________ d

na = not assigned
Example: i + e+f + c+d = 0 1 3 C
6. P Meas. Pressure (D) = Measured pressure,
7. T Meas. Temperature (D) = Measured Temperature,
8. Cf Correction factor (D) = Correction factor,
9. C Conversion factor (D) = Conversion factor,
10. Zb base Z (D) = Gas Compressibility at base conditions ,
11. Z operating Z (D) = Gas Compressibility at operating conditions,
12. f(Z) Z-Formul (D) = compressibility calculation method used ( AGANX-19mod,ISO12213-3, AGA8
Gross1,AGA8 Gross2),
13. Gas composition (D) = list of the gas component, push “Enter” to view the following data:
a. If AgaNX19mod
i. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
ii. N2 Nitrogen (D) = Nitrogen percentage,
b. If ISO12213-3
i. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
ii. H2 Hydrogen (D) = hydrogen percentage,
c. AGA8 Gross 1
i. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
ii. H2 Hydrogen (D) = hydrogen percentage,
iii. CO Carbon monoxide (D) = carbon monoxide percentage,
d. AGA8 Gross 2
i. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
ii. N2 Nitrogen (D) = Nitrogen percentage,
iii. H2 Hydrogen (D) = hydrogen percentage,
iv. CO Carbon monoxide (D) = carbon monoxide percentage,

14. RHOb Base Density (D) = base density,

15. Grb Rel. Dendity (D) = relative density,
16. HVb Heating Value (D) = heating value,
17. f(Q) Q-Formula (D) = current method (AGA7 only),
18. Pulse Weight (D) = meter pulse weight,
19. Vb Remainders (D) = base volume remainders,
20. Vm Remainders (D) = measured volume remainders,
21. Vc Remainders (D) = corrected volume remainders,
22. Qb Base FlowRate (D) = base volume flow rate,
23. Qm Meas.FlowRate (D) = measured volume flow rate,
24. Qc Corr.FlowRate (D) = corrected volume flow rate,
25. Vb Month (D) = base volume in the month,
26. Vm Month (D) = measured volume in the month,
27. Vc Month (D) = corrected volume in the month,
28. Vb Day (D) = base volume in the day,
29. Vm Day (D) = measured volume in the day,

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30. Vc Day (D) = corrected volume in the day,

31. P2 Aux. Press. (D) = pressure P2 value (if available, otherwise the page doesn’t appears).

5.1.6.2 Settings
1. Calculation Settings (D) = calculation settings, push “Enter” to view the following data:
a. Base references (S2) = base reference,
b. Gr Rel. Density (S2) =,
c. Gr References (S2) =,
d. HV Heating Value(S2) = heating value,
e. HV References (S2) = heating value references,
f. T Meas (0 = Calc) (S2) = 0=Temperature calculated, value >< 0 forces Temperature input
g. P Meas (0 = Calc) (S2) = 0=Pressure calculated ,value >< 0 forces Pressure input
h. Z ratio (0 = Calc) (S2) = 0=Zb/Zs calculated ,value >< 0 forces Zb/Zs
i. patm AtmPressure(S2) = Atmospheric Pressure,
j. f(Z) Z-Formula (S2) = AGANX19 , ISO12213, AGA8 Gross1, AGA8 Gross2
k. Gas composition (S2) = list of the gas component, push “Enter” to view the following data:
i. If AgaNX19mod
1. CO2 Carbon dioxide (S2) = carbon dioxide percentage,
2. N2 Nitrogen (S2) = Nitrogen percentage,
ii. If ISO12213-3
1. CO2 Carbon dioxide (S2) = carbon dioxide percentage,
2. H2 Hydrogen (S2) = hydrogen percentage,
iii. AGA8 gross 1
1. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
2. H2 Hydrogen (D) = hydrogen percentage,
3. CO Carbon monoxide (D) = carbon monoxide percentage,
iv. AGA8 gross 2
1. CO2 Carbon dioxide (D) = carbon dioxide percentage,
2. N2 Nitrogen (D) = Nitrogen percentage,
3. H2 Hydrogen (D) = hydrogen percentage,
4. CO Carbon monoxide (D) = carbon monoxide percentage,

l. f(Q) Q-Formula (S2) = flow calculation formula

m. Pulse Weight (S2) = pulse weight,
n. Vm Correction (S2) = points of correction, push “Enter” to view the following data:
i. Qmin – Qmax = Qmin and Qmax
ii. N.1 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 1(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 1
iii. N.2 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 2(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 2
iv. N.3 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 3(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 3
v. N.4 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 4(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 4
vi. N.5 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 5(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 5
vii. N.6 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 6(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 6
viii. N.7 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 7(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 7
ix. N.8 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 8(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 8
x. N.9 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 9(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 9
xi. N.10 Qmax% Err% (S2) = point n 10(Qmax percentage), Err% of point n 10
xii. QmaxError (S2) = Error % when Qm = Qmax
o. Cnt Frequency (S2) = Gas meter pulse frequency ( HF, LF)
p. Counter input (S2) = number of active counter input ( 1 , 2)

Menu is escaped by pressing ESC at any level; if any modification has been performed MMI enters SC status for confirmation.

2. Counter Settings (D) = counter settings, push “Enter” to view the following data:
a. Vm meas Volume (S2) = Value of measured volume,
b. Vc corr Volume (S2) = Value of corrected volume,
c. Vb base Volume (S2) = Value of base volume,

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3. System Settings (D) = system settings, push “Enter” to view the following data:
a. Current Date (S1)* = current date and time,
b. End Day Hour (S1) = conventional hour of end of day,
c. Summer day (S1) = summer day,
d. Winter day (S1) = winter day,
e. Language (D) = language ( English, French, Spanish, Italian )
f. Modbus Address (S1) = start address of Modbus communication protocol
g. Set Password (S1) = password (default password = 0000).

Menu is escaped by pressing ESC at any level; if any modification has been performed MMI enters SC status for confirmation.
*) €xplorer applies date and time modifications as follows:
1. set date and time was never performed
a. new date and time is accepted as imposed
2. set date and time was already performed
a. time difference = 10 minutes : clock is shifted 1 sec every minute
b. time difference > 10 minutes : command is rejected
What described above applies both to manual modifications by means of device keyboard and local and remote setup by means of
communication software ( X_Term and others).

h. Calibration (S2) = Activate the calibration.

5.1.6.3 Sistem info:

1. Current Diag. (D) = Current diagnostic,
2. Serial Number (D) = serial number,
3. HW release (D) = Hardware version,
4. FW release (D) = Firmware version,
5. P Transducer SN (D) = P transducer SN,
6. P(2) Transd. SN (D) = P2 transducer SN ( if available)
7. Calibr. Date (D) = date of calibration,

5.1.7 Faulty conditions

Whenever error is detected , i.e pressure, temperature or compressibility out of specified range, icon “ ” appears in the main page and
beside the faulty variable; increase of the volumes at base condition stops, while totalisation of volume at measurement conditions
continues to operate.
Measured Volumes (Vm) counted during conditions above are being accumulated to Error Totalizer Ve ; calculation of corrected Volume
Vc stops operating.
As soon as the cause of the alarm is eliminated computation of volume at base condition restarts automatically from the last valid value.
Diagnostic flags in the “Alarms “page remain historically recorded till clearing at security level 1 is performed.

5.2 Optical port

Communication through optical port takes place through associated IrDASender interface ( not included) ; communication protocol
supported on optical and serial ports is Modbus ASCII Slave.
To enable IrDA interface press simultaneously the two arrow keys ( , ). In this way the icon appears and interface is powered on.
This icon remains on for all the communication time and stays on for additional 60 seconds after the last valid communication frame.; when
the icon disappears IrDA Interface turns off.

Notice
When the IrDA interface is enabled the consumption of the apparatus increases : take care!

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5.3 Remote communication

All the €xplorer apparatus have the ability to communicate remotely through a serial interface.
To this serial port A must have connect only the “€xplorer” accessory.
The electrical connection are in the terminal block inside the portal: refer to the internal label.
After the installation, when any signal arrive the icon appears on the display: this indicate that
the “A.” serial interface is enable.
This icon remains on for all the communication time: after 60 seconds after the last
communication, the icon disappear and the “A” serial interface turn off.
Next time a signal arrive to the port, the icon will appear again.
Through this serial port, you can interface a PC to the apparatus to read the internal register
and value.

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6. Maintenance
6.1 Ordinary maintenance
Change the battery at the end of its duration. Turn off the explorer before changing it.

6.2 Corrective maintenance

No repairing can be performed in the field, Please return product to your distributor for any problem that might occur.

6.3 Troubleshooting
6.3.1 The apparatus doesn’t turn on
o Be sure the extern power supply is connected and turned on
o Be sure that battery pack is properly connected

6.3.2 Pressure measurement doesn’t work

o Verify that pressure tap is correctly plugged-in

6.3.3 Temperature measurement doesn’t work

o Verify that the terminal blocks are connected correctly
o Verify thermo sensor cable integrity

6.3.4 Digital outputs do not work

o Verify that the terminal blocks are connected correctly

6.3.5 Serial communication doesn’t work

o Verify appearance of the icon on the display
o Verify proper connection of the serial line to terminal blocks

6.3.6 IrDA communication doesn’t work

o Verify appearance of icon on the display after IrDA was activated
o Verify proper connection of IrDA’s plug

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7. X_Term Software
7.1 Introduction
X_Term is a communication software especially designed to interface €xplorer family of products, to support local data display,
configuration download and log data upload.
Logged data are stored in separate ASCII files, to enable further file processing.

7.2 Operating instructions

X_Term runs on a portable PC with MS Windows 95,98,NT and 2000.
Connection to €xplorer can be performed by means of standard serial communication port ( i.e. RS232 at the associated apparatus) and
local IrDA interface.
Please refer to X_Term user manual for further details.

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