Summary of Contents for American Innovations Allegro MX
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Proven compliance solutions. Relentless service.
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Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of American Innovations is strictly forbidden. The American Innovations logo and icon and products are trademarks of American Innovations, Ltd. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Configure the Amps Mode Tab Configure the Data Logger Tab View the DVM Graph View the Data Logger Chapter 3: Close Interval Survey (CeCi) Connect Test Leads and Data Canes to Allegro MX Test Leads Connection Data Cane Connections Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide...
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Show Bearing to Site Export a Survey File Transfer a Survey File to PCS Chapter 4: DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG) Connect Data Canes to Allegro MX Set DCVG Options Configure the Misc Tab Configure the File Tab Configure the Gps Tab...
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Show Bearing to Site Export a Survey File Chapter 5: Periodic Survey Connect Test Leads to Allegro MX Send Periodic Surveys to the Allegro MX Open and Configure a Survey File Set Periodic Survey Options Configure the On/Off Tab Configure the GPS Tab...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Appendix A: Interrupted On/Off Settings Types of Interruption Cycles Suggested On/Off Settings Chapter A: Key Redirect Appendix B: Utility Software GPS Status GPS Pod Setup Using the AMXU Pod Setup Using the GPS Pod Setup Application...
Chapter 1: Getting Started This guide explains how to set up and use American Innovations software installed on the Allegro MX. This chapter includes the following topics: Equipment List Preparing the Allegro MX for Use on page 2 ...
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Preparing the Allegro MX for Use When you first receive the Allegro MX from AI, perform the following tasks to prepare the device for service: Install the Battery Pack Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display on page 4 ...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure 1-2. Install Battery Pack 3. Push the battery door closed until slide latches click into place. If slide latches are not securely in place, the unit is no longer water tight. 4. Plug the battery charger into a wall outlet, then the Allegro. The Power window automatically displays after applying power.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure 1-3. Power Set Display Properties for a Monochrome Display If the Allegro includes a monochrome display, complete the following steps to set display properties: 1. Tap Start > Settings > Today icon to display the Today Settings window.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Complete the following steps: 1. Tap Start > Settings > System tab > Regional Settings to display the Regional Settings window. 2. Set your preferred language in the Region tab. Use the remaining tabs to set the display style for Number, Currency, Time, and Date.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Transfer Utility Files to PCS Updated utility files are included with the Allegro MX installation to facilitate PCS integration. If you use PCS software with the Allegro MX, the utility files (wToCmd.exe and CeFileXfer.exe) need to be transferred from the Allegro MX device to the PCS executable directory on your computer.
Connector Panel Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch Connector Panel The connector panel is located at the top of the Allegro MX. Figure 1-1. Allegro MX Connector Panel The connector panel supports the following connections: DVM positive and negative test leads ...
Figure 1-1. Set Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch Position Overview of AI Allegro MX Software The Allegro MX ships with the following AI Allegro MX applications factory-installed. AI Allegro MX software version 7.1.2 is compatible with PCS software versions 7 and newer.
Avoid using sharp objects that may scratch or puncture the touchscreen display. The Allegro MX includes a high-contrast, pressure-sensitive display with an adjustable backlight. The touchscreen can be toggled on/off as necessary, especially when working in harsh conditions such as a rainstorm or in high brush.
When the process completes, tap OK to close the current screen; tap the Close icon (X) to return to the Today screen. Keypad and Shortcut Keys The Allegro MX keypad is similar to a computer keyboard. The keypad provides the following functionality: ...
Refer to Global Shortcuts for a list of common keyboard shortcuts. Function Keys Function keys F1 through F5 are pre-assigned on the Allegro MX. The function keys are assigned with a file, which is installed on the Allegro before it is shipped. If the...
Figure 1-3. Start Screen Allegro MX Icons and Soft Keys The Allegro MX uses icons and soft keys for shortcuts to provide an alternate method for navigation during an Allegro MX session. Certain system icons regularly display when running software. For example, the Windows logo icon, OK, Menu, and keyboard icons all display when running any software.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Table 1-1. Windows Mobile Icon Descriptions Icon / Text Description Start bar: tap to display the Start menu. Windows logo: tap to display the Start menu. Mini-USB Connection: status icon indicating current connection status. When connected to a computer it displays without an X.
To access Allegro MX documentation, follow either of these steps: Copy from the Allegro: If the Allegro MX is not connected to your computer, connect the device. Once successfully connected, browse the contents of the Allegro device using Windows Explorer. Navigate to the folder...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Address: American Innovations, Ltd. Attn: AI Technical Support 12211 Technology Blvd. Austin, TX 78727 Chapter 1: Getting Started...
Chapter 2: Digital Voltmeter (AiDvm) The American Innovations Digital Voltmeter (AiDvm) measures voltage and current as a fully functional digital voltmeter (DVM) and as an integrated DVM to complement the following AI software: CeCi (close interval), DCVG (direct current voltage gradient), and Periodic Survey (annual/periodic survey).
Check test lead continuity. Damaged leads should be replaced. To avoid electrical shock and damage to the Allegro MX, do not use the Allegro MX when working with voltages greater than that supported by the DAQ (data acquisition) card or measuring current, except across a shunt.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure 2-1. Allegro MX Connections Configuration for DVM Chapter 2: Digital Voltmeter (AiDvm)
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Measure Voltage and Current Set Test Function, Voltage Range, and Sample Rate Set DVM Options Set Test Function, Voltage Range, and Sample Rate 1. Choose a test function by tapping Vdc, Vac, DC Amp, AC Amp, or AC mA.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide least negative values in a cycle based on the On/Off Delays. Of the remaining values in the cycle, the most negative value will be on reading and the least negative value will be the off reading.
(seconds, minutes, or hours). When recording an hour or more of data, use the external AC power adapter to prevent draining the Allegro MX battery. The automatic power-down feature of the Allegro MX is disabled during data logging.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide View the DVM Graph AiDvm displays the on/off interruption cycle in real-time as a waveform graph in addition to the digital display in the main DVM window. When using AiDvm during an on/off survey, tap Graph to view a waveform graph of the interruption cycle.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Other indicators that may appear in the status line include the following: GPS (n): indicates GPS and the number of satellites in view HiLo: indicates high/low readings GPS (n HiLo): indicates GPS mode is selected but HiLo is used because the GPS signal is unavailable.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure 2-1. Data Logger File Chapter 2: Digital Voltmeter (AiDvm)
Close Interval Survey (CeCi) CeCi records pipeline potential readings for close interval (CI) surveys. The software collects survey readings from a data cane or wire counter connected to the Allegro MX. CeCi measures voltage using the digital voltmeter (DVM) inside the Allegro MX.
Flagged Surveys Using One Data Cane Fixed Increment Surveys Before using the Allegro MX under one of these configurations, ensure you've set the switch adapter to the correct mode. For more information about the switch adapter, refer to Chainer/Stick Adapter Switch.
Figure 3-1. Allegro MX on Survey Tray If using a survey tray with data canes, connect the survey tray's 3-pin connector into the Remote Trigger connection on the Allegro MX. Connect the data canes' 3-pin connectors to the survey tray junction box.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure 3-1. Allegro MX Connected to One Data Cane Fixed Increment Surveys For Fixed Increment survey, connect the data canes and hip pack (chainer). Figure 3-1. Allegro MX with Hip Pack (Chainer) Set CeCi Options To set optional features in CeCi, tap View >...
1. If not already in the Options window, tap View > Options to display the Misc tab. 2. Select Beep on every Reading if you want the Allegro MX to beep each time a reading is taken. 3. If you want the Allegro MX to beep when the voltage value is less negative than a specific value, tap Beep for voltages less negative than this value and enter a warning value in the Voltage level field.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 4. Tap the drop-down arrow in GPS display Format and select either Degrees and Decimal minutes or Decimal degrees. note: always saved as decimal degrees, despite how it's shown here. 5. Tap Ok to save changes and return to the survey file or tap another tab to set additional options.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 3. Set upper voltage by entering a value in the Upper value field or tapping the up/down arrows. 4. Set lower voltage by entering a value in the Lower value field or tapping the up/down arrows.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide survey is a flagged or a fixed increment survey and define the flagged or fixed increment properties. Configure the On/Off Tab on page 34 — the fields in the On/Off tab define the type of survey to be performed and, depending on the defined survey type, the on and off time settings.
Warn at above average field and select a percentage value. The Allegro MX beeps 3 times as a warning when the number of reads for the current flag session is more than the average percentage of reads taken for previous flag sessions.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 6. Tap Ok to save changes and return to the survey file or tap another tab to set additional properties. Set Fixed Increment Mode Properties 1. If using a metric wire counter (chainer) to trigger reads, tap Metric to record readings in meters.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide available for uninterrupted surveys. The Cycle begins with field is not available with On/off High/Low survey types. 5. When available, enter the delay times for the survey. These fields are not available for uninterrupted surveys. The following delay time fields may be available for interrupted surveys: ...
Record Inspection Readings If using a data cane, press Enter on the Allegro MX keypad or single-click the data cane to record readings in the survey file. If using a wire counter (chainer), readings are automatically recorded in the survey file.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Save the Survey File Tap the Save icon or tap File > Save to save changes to the survey file. The Save As window displays when working with a new survey file that has not previously been saved. Enter a name for the new survey file in the Name field and then tap OK.
Site Locator window. The Site Locator window shows bearing and distance to a target location. Bearing is blank when the Allegro MX is not receiving a valid GPS fix. The message Out of Range displays when the following conditions occur: ...
Transfer a Survey File to PCS Utility files labeled wToCmd.exe and CeFileXer.exe must be updated for the current release of Allegro MX software in order for survey files to transfer properly from the Allegro MX to PCS. For more information, refer to...
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d. Select each survey file you want to transfer. e. Click Import to transfer survey files from the Allegro MX to PCS. f. When the Mark Native dialog box opens, click the check box for any Native Data survey files and then click OK to continue the transfer.
(shown as 1 mV in the next example); and polarity if enabled in the DCVG tab of Properties. The polarity arrow displays when readings are greater than 3mV or less than –3mV. This chapter includes the following topics: Connect Data Canes to Allegro MX Set DCVG Options on page 42 ...
If not already in the Options window, tap View > Options to display the Misc tab. 2. If you want the Allegro MX to beep when the absolute value of the voltage is above a specific value, tap Beep for voltages above this absolute value, and enter a warning value in the Voltage level field.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 5. Tap Ok to save changes and return to the survey file or tap another tab to set additional options. Configure the File Tab 1. If not already in the Options window, tap View > Options to display the Options window.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 4. Tap Ok to save changes and return to the survey file or tap another tab to set additional options. Perform a Survey in DCVG When DCVG first opens, a new blank survey file is displayed. To open an existing survey file for editing, tap File >...
PCS ROW Code, Pipeline Code, and Surveyer fields. PCS does not currently support direct import of Allegro MX DCVG survey files (Field Computer > Receive Data). However, you can use Bridge to import data in PCS. See the PCS User Guide for more information.
Warn at above average field and select a percentage value. The Allegro MX beeps 3 times as a warning when the number of reads for the current flag session is more than the average percentage of reads taken for previous flag sessions.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide remaining values in the cycle, the most negative value will be on reading and the least negative value will be the off reading. On/off Gps Sync — for an interrupted survey using GPS synchronized interrupter.
Tap Ok to save changes and return to the survey file or tap another tab to set additional properties. Record Inspection Readings Press Enter on the Allegro MX keypad or single-click the data cane to record readings in the survey file. Add Remarks Additional information about the survey record, such as a geographical reference, depth of cover, or facility measurements, can be recorded in the remarks field.
a. Take readings at the indication site until you reach remote earth. Press the data cane button to capture readings in DCVG, or press Enter on the Allegro MX keypad. DCVG automatically calculates Total IR. When GPS is available, tap the GPS Loc button to record the current GPS location. The GPS Loc button is disabled and unavailable for use when GPS is unavailable.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Add Test Point Information 1. Select a survey record and then tap View > Test Point Info. 2. Double-tap a test point and enter required values when prompted. 3. Tap OK to enter the information in the survey record and return to the survey file.
Locator window. Tapping View > Show bearing to site also displays the window. The Site Locator window shows bearing and distance to a target location. Bearing is blank when the Allegro MX is not receiving a valid GPS fix. The message Out of Range displays when the following conditions occur: ...
Tap OK to close the window. 4. Use Windows Mobile Device Center to move a copy from the Allegro MX CiData folder to your computer (Start > File Explorer > My Devices > AI > CiData). Chapter 4: DC Voltage Gradient (DCVG)
Allegro MX. After completing a survey, data is transferred from the Allegro MX back to PCS. For information about how to build and transfer a survey file to the Allegro MX, refer to the PCS User Guide.
Send Periodic Surveys to the Allegro MX Utility files labeled wToCmd.exe and CeFileXer.exe must be updated for the current release of Allegro MX software in order for survey files to transfer properly from PCS to the Allegro MX. For more information, refer to...
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide It is recommended that you save the survey file before and after entering data. Refer to Save the Survey File on page Set Periodic Survey Options To set the options for the current periodic survey, tap View > Options to display the options window for the current survey.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 4. If available, enter on/off times and cycle begins with settings to match those on the current interrupter in the ON time, OFF time, and Cycle begins with fields. The Cycle begins with field is not available with High/Low survey types.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Configure the RFID Tab 1. If not already in the Options window, tap View > Options to display the survey options window. 2. Select the appropriate Comm Port from the drop-down list that corresponds to the port that the RFID is attached to.
Complete the following steps to rearrange the sites, add a new one, delete an added site, or assign a new RFID tag to a site. New sites added on the Allegro MX are marked with a bullet (•) in the Site List and can be deleted.
Tap OK to return to the survey file. If the ROW Code field is empty when the survey is transferred to PCS, a new ROW code is created in the PCS hierarchy labeled From Allegro MX. 5. Tap the Milepost field and enter the new site's milepost number.
File menu. Backups of the survey file will be saved to the Allegro MX's SD Card, though any images taken as part of a survey are not stored alongside the backup. Prior to resetting the Allegro MX or upgrading the software, it is recommended that you manually back up any PS folder that contains images to the SD Card or a computer.
The arrangement of these fields is defined in the prompt sent to the Allegro MX from PCS. Refer to the PCS User Guide for more information about creating prompt themes for the field computer.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide The status panes display information about the current record and/or currently selected field. Depending on the options configured for the Allegro and the information available in the file, the panes' content may vary. Figure 5-1. Survey Record Screen Click to show the next or previous page in the survey record.
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From the Site Record Screen, tap Find then tap Find in the Find menu. The Find screen shows the fields that were defined as searchable in the prompt sent to the Allegro MX from PCS. Figure 5-1. Find Screen Enter the text to find in the desired searchable field(s) and select a search constraint in the Find sites that dropdown.
Select a Value for Field with a Multi-Select Picklist for detailed instructions. Inspection Readings — For reading fields, tap the field and press Enter on the Allegro MX keypad twice. Refer to Record Inspection Readings for more information. ...
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Min P/S — Max P/S — Average P/S — P/S Sample Time — Select a Value for Field with a Multi-Select Picklist If a field was set up in PCS to include a picklist (similar to a drop-down list), complete the following steps to select one or more values for that field.
Press Enter again or single-click the data cane to capture the reading in the survey file. Record Timed Readings When the survey is set up in PCS with Allegro MX prompts for the following fields, these same fields are available in PS for timed readings: Min P/S, Max P/S, Average P/S, and P/S Sample Time.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide 1. Select a timed reading field and then press Enter on the Allegro MX keypad. Figure 5-1. Timed Reading Fields 2. When the Averaged Reading Survey window displays, tap the arrow in the Duration field and select the length of time the Allegro MX should take timed readings.
Transfer a Periodic Survey to PCS Utility files labeled wToCmd.exe and CeFileXer.exe must be updated for the current release of Allegro MX software in order for survey files to transfer properly from the Allegro MX to PCS. For more information, refer to...
Complete the following steps to copy one or more PS survey files to a computer: 1. Connect the provided USB serial cable to your computer and the Allegro MX. If you are using a USB power dock, connect the USB cable to the power dock and your computer.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide In ActiveSync, click the Explore icon in the tool bar to display the contents of the Allegro MX in Windows Explorer. 4. Click the AI folder (located at the root drive \AI\). 5. Double-click the PsData folder. Click the Name column in Windows Explorer to sort files by name.
On/Off High/Low settings, which serves as a backup if the satellite signal is lost. In the event that the signal is lost, the Allegro MX defaults to On/Off High/Low survey mode until the satellite signal is re-acquired.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Table A-1. Suggested On/Off Settings for Interruption Surveys cont'd 0.7 on 200 mSec On Delay Filters out 12 most negative readings 0.3 off 150 mSec Off Delay Filters out 3 least negative readings 0.8 on...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Table A-1. Suggested On/Off Settings for Interruption Surveys cont'd GPS Real Time delay Does not capture any reading for 50 mSec before either the on > off or the off > on transition. Recommended GPS-RT Setup Time is 50 mSec for Mercury switches and 30 mSec for solid state switches.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Chapter A: Key Redirect Key Redirect pre-assigns the F1 through F5 keys. The Allegro ships with Key Redirect factory- installed. The following table lists how these keys function within CeCi and Periodic Survey. Table A-1. F1-F5 Functionality with Key Redirect F1 –...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Figure A-1. Key Redirect 3. To assign any AI software to any of the F1 through F5 function keys, refer to procedure in Function Keys on page Chapter A: Key Redirect...
To start GPS Status, tap Start > GpsStatus to display the Gps Status window. NOTE: If the Allegro MX is unable to open the COM port, the message Unable to open GPS port COM3 (-2,317) displays. Exit and then restart GPS Status to allow the Allegro MX to open the port.
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GPS packets. V indicates valid GPS packets received and FF indicates no GPS packets received. If received characters is zero (0) or does not increase, verify the GPS receiver is securely connected to the Allegro MX and communication settings are correct (COM port and baud rate). GPS coordinates Shows longitude, latitude, and elevation coordinates received from a minimum of 3 satellites.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Table B-1. GPS Status Field Descriptions cont'd Field Description DOP values DOP (dilution of precision) values identify the accuracy of GPS readings. When a DOP value is zero (0), the GPS receiver does not report the value. When the value is between 1 and 3, GPS accuracy is good.
(*,*,*). When Offset is enabled, GPS time does not display. Beep If you want the Allegro MX to beep each time GPS readings update, tap Beep to enable the option. u-blox WGS84 Status line showing the current datum setting for a u-blox compatible GPS receiver.
Using the AMXU Pod Setup - for configuring the communication parameters of a u-blox compatible GPS receiver with the Allegro MX Using the GPS Pod Setup Application - for configuring the communication parameters of a Trimble GPS receiver with the Allegro MX...
5. Tap OK to close the utility. Using the GPS Pod Setup Application If you use a Trimble GPS receiver with the Allegro MX, complete the following steps to reset the communication parameters of the GPS pod: 1. Tap Start > Programs > GPSPodSetup to open the GPS Receiver Port Settings window.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Baud: 9600 Parity: None Stop Bits: 1 GPS Data Format: NMEA 4. Tap Apply Settings and then the Close icon (X). GPS Config Ublox Use the GpsConfigUblox utility to change the default datum for a u-blox compatible GPS receiver.
Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Appendix B: Keyboard Shortcuts These are the default shortcuts and could change if Personal Buttons are modified in Allegro Settings. Many shortcuts only work when the cursor is in a certain field or tab. Global Shortcuts Caps Toggle <Blue><Caps Lock>...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide VDC Test Function <D> or <Alt><D> Select Vdc test function. VAC Test Function <A> or <Alt><A> Select Vac test function. DC Amp <Ctrl><D> Select DC Amp test function. AC Amp <Ctrl><A> Select AC Amp test function.
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Skip <Ctrl><K> Open Skip Distance window in Fixed Increment mode. Insert Record <Ctrl><Ins> Insert new record. Delete Record <Ctrl><Del> Delete selected record. Skip/Lock/Normal <Ctrl><Z> Toggles Skip, Lock, and Normal in Fixed Increment mode. Remark <Alt><R>...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Navigating Graph <G> Enable or disable Show Graph. Tab in Options With Show Graph enabled: <U> Move cursor to Upper Value. <L> Move cursor to Lower Value. <W> Move cursor to Width. Navigating Colors <E>...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Annual/Periodic Survey Open <Ctrl> <O> Open File Open window. Save <Ctrl><S> Save survey file. Copy, Cut, Paste <Ctrl><C> Copy selection to clipboard. <Ctrl><X> Remove selection and copy to clipboard. <Ctrl><V> Paste content from clipboard. Select Data in a Field <Shift><Blue><Home>...
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Allegro MX v7.1.2 User Guide Open View Menu <Alt> <V> Open View menu. Cancel Changes <Esc>/<Cancel> and <Enter> <Esc> or move cursor to <Cancel> button and press <Enter>. Apply Changes <Enter>/<OK> <Enter> when in a drop-down list or move cursor to <OK> and then press <Enter>.
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