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Schlumberger RoadMAPS User Manual

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RoadMAPS
TM
User's Manual
Version 2.0

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Summary of Contents for Schlumberger RoadMAPS

  • Page 1 RoadMAPS User’s Manual Version 2.0...
  • Page 2 RoadMAPS Unit device complies with Industry Canada RS210 Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) RoadMAPS Unit may not cause interference, and (2) RoadMAPS Unit must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the unit. RoadMAPS User’s Manual 2.0...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    RoadMAPS Function Buttons ........
  • Page 4 Placing the RoadMAPS Unit in the Vehicle ........
  • Page 5 Exiting RoadMAPS Software ........
  • Page 6 Performing Diagnostics ............B-2 To display and exit RoadMAPS self diagnostics ....... B-2...
  • Page 7 ........... 2-14 Latches on RoadMAPS carrying case .
  • Page 8 ........5-2 Cover replaced on RoadMAPS Unit .
  • Page 9 ........... . . B-1 RoadMAPS User’s Manual...
  • Page 10 Tables Notes: RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 11: System Operations

    RouteMAPS™ host software to make route assignments for meter readers via the PC memory cards. Each meter reader inserts a PC memory card into the RoadMAPS Unit and then drives through the routes assigned to collect data broadcast by R900, R100, R200, R300, or ERT Meter Interface Units (MIUs).

  • Page 12: About This Manual

    About this Manual The RoadMAPS User’s Manual describes the system and its fea- tures and provides procedures on how to use the RoadMAPS Unit from setting up the unit and using its software to exiting and clos- ing up the unit.

  • Page 13: Conventions Used In This Manual

    The Warning icon identifies actions that can injure the user or permanently damage the product. The Caution icon identifies important information that is critical to ensuring that data stored with the RoadMAPS Unit is not lost. RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 14: Product Support Within The United States

    RoadMAPS Unit uses. This information is useful to the support technical who helps you. To find the version number of RoadMAPS Software, you must dis- play the RoadMAPS System Check screen. For instructions on obtaining the version number of the RoadMAPS software, see “Performing Diagnostics,”...

  • Page 15: Roadmaps Overview

    Chapter 2 RoadMAPS Overview The RoadMAPS Unit is a portable, mobile data collector used in conjunction with internal software and host software to provide automatic meter reading for collection of route information to be used in the utility’s billing system.

  • Page 16: Roadmaps Features

    Processing Unit Antenna Figure 2.1 RoadMAPS Unit Do not attempt to open the bottom of the RoadMAPS Unit carrying case. Attempting to repair or modify the unit on your own can result in personal injury or damage to the unit.

  • Page 17: The Laptop

    4-6. The unit beeps each time an MIU signal is received by the receiver, excluding duplicate signals that are filtered out. To protect the driver’s safety, use the Beeper function on the RoadMAPS Unit to moni- tor meter reading.

  • Page 18: Pc Memory Card Port

    Figure 2.3 Memory Card Port The RoadMAPS Unit requires that you have only one PC memory card in a slot at a time. To avoid losing metered data, do not put PC memory cards in both slots of the PC memory card port at the same time.

  • Page 19: Navigation

    RoadMAPS Overview Navigation All RoadMAPS functions are performed in one of two ways: • Using the key or the arrow Home PgDn PgUp keys to move the focus to the appropriate button and pressing ENTER • Using the provided stylus to touch the selections on the screen.

  • Page 20: Roadmaps Software

    RoadMAPS Software The RoadMAPS software application runs on the laptop computer that is part of the RoadMAPS Unit. The purpose of the RoadMAPS software is to log meter data from routes of possible meter IDs. Messages from metered IDs outside of the route are identified as such and are discarded.

  • Page 21: Roadmaps Function Buttons

    RoadMAPS Overview RoadMAPS Function Buttons Each RoadMAPS screen contains different function buttons per- taintaining to the specific information on that screen. Use the fol- lowing to identify the different buttons and their specific operations. Welcome Screen • —automatically launches the route import process.

  • Page 22: Reading Indicator

    Welcome screen Reading indicator The Reading indicator shows the activity status of the RoadMAPS unit. When the Route Selection screen is first accessed, the Reading indicator dis- plays a “Stopped” message to show that reading has not yet begun.

  • Page 23: Message Area And Progress Bar

    RoadMAPS will resume reading at the point where it previously stopped. Message area and progress bar The message area on RoadMAPS screens indicates the number and percentage of meters on the route that were read successfully. A graphical progress bar also shows the percentage of the route that is complete.

  • Page 24: Information Area

    RoadMAPS Overview Information area The information area of a RoadMAPS screen displays the route or addresses to be read. These following views are available: • The route view includes the route number, number of MIUs to be read, first address on the route, and percentage of the route that was read.

  • Page 25: Route Selection Screen

    RoadMAPS Overview Route Selection Screen The first type of RoadMAPS display screen is the Route Selection screen shown in Figure 2.5. This screen shows loaded routes and the percentage of each route that has been read. The screen includes the Reading indicator, an information area with a list of routes, and a selection box that allows you to turn the beeper on or off.

  • Page 26: Route Display Screens

    It is possible to view the details of a specific MIU from either screen. Select the specific MIU by touching the screen with the stylus or by using the or the keys. PgUp PgDn Press the MIU Details button. 2-12 RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 27: Roadmaps Unit

    Figure 2.7 MIU Details Dialog Box RoadMAPS Unit The RoadMAPS Unit, shown in Figure 2.8, consists of two sub- systems: an RF (Radio Frequency) receiver and an RF transmitter. The RF receiver is made up of the following 3 modules: •...

  • Page 28: Rf Receiver

    The extracted data is stored in local cache memory. The RoadMAPS Unit reads signals from R900 water MIUs and R100, R200,R300, and ERT gas and electric MIUs with a high rate of success on the first pass.

  • Page 29: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    SURF messages and up to eight simultaneous Itron messages, provided they are not trans- mitted in the same RF channel. The RoadMAPS Unit together with the MIU functions as a transmitter/receiver pair that works together as a spread spectrum system.

  • Page 30: Rf Transmitter

    PPC. Power Supply The RoadMAPS Unit is powered by a 12V automobile battery, but both the RF receiver and the RF transmitter are supplied power from that battery through independent paths. Refer to the follow- ing table for the different operating voltages and current levels.

  • Page 31: Operating Voltage And Current

    DC/DC converters; when components require less than 12 volts, linear regulators will be used. To prevent excessive use of the battery, the RoadMAPS unit will not operated if the vehicle’s engine to which it is connected is not running.

  • Page 32: Antenna And Duplexer

    While the antenna is designed to stay in place at speeds of up to 70 m.p.h., the system is only capable of taking reads in a drive-by mode of up to 30 m.p.h. The antenna is stored in the RoadMAPS Unit carrying case when not in use.

  • Page 33: Setting Up The Roadmaps Unit

    Removing Carrying Case Cover To set up the RoadMAPS Unit in a vehicle, you must remove the top cover by opening four latches on the cover. For safety purposes and to prevent damage to the cover, make sure the cover is securely stored in the back seat or elsewhere in the vehicle.

  • Page 34: To Remove The Carrying Case Cover

    Setting Up the RoadMAPS Unit To remove the carrying case cover Follow this procedure to open the RoadMAPS unit latches, shown in Figure 3.1, and remove the carrying case top. Lift the latch flap and turn it to the left.

  • Page 35: Pc Memory Card Slot

    Setting Up the RoadMAPS Unit The laptop must be OFF before you insert the PC memory card. Follow this procedure to insert the PC memory card containing the routes you will read. Locate the PC memory card for your assigned routes.

  • Page 36: Placing The Roadmaps Unit In The Vehicle

    Follow this procedure to set up the RoadMAPS Unit in the vehicle passenger seat. Never set up a RoadMAPS Unit during a lightning storm or under excessively wet con- ditions. Place the RoadMAPS Unit in the passenger seat with the seat- belt retention loop facing the back of the seat.

  • Page 37: Placing Seatbelt In Retention Loop

    Setting Up the RoadMAPS Unit Figure 3.4 Placing Seatbelt in Retention Loop Replace the safety pin in the seatbelt retention loop, as shown in Figure 3.5. Figure 3.5 Replacing the Safety Pin Adjust the seat belt so that the unit is secure in the passen- ger’s seat.

  • Page 38: Connecting The Antenna

    Setting Up the RoadMAPS Unit To further secure the unit, slide it against the back of the seat (see Figure 3.6). Figure 3.6 Securing the unit Connecting the Antenna Follow this procedure to connect the antenna cable and place it on the roof of the vehicle.

  • Page 39: Cables Retained By Velcro Strapping

    Figure 3.7 Cables retained by Velcro strapping If the antenna cable is not plugged in, plug it into the socket on the top right side of the RoadMAPS Unit next to the laptop computer. Twist the antenna connector to the RoadMAPS Unit.

  • Page 40: Antenna Routing

    Setting Up the RoadMAPS Unit Figure 3.8 Antenna routing Place the magnetic base of the antenna in the center of the roof approximately one foot behind the leading edge of the roof (see Figure 3.9). Figure 3.9 Antenna placement RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 41: Plugging In The Power Cable

    Plugging in the Power Cable Follow this procedure to connect the cigarette lighter power cable to the RoadMAPS Unit and plug it into the lighter receptacle. Insert one end of the cigarette lighter power cable into the connector on the RoadMAPS Unit.

  • Page 42: Turning The Unit On

    When the laptop starts up, RoadMAPS software loads route data from the PC memory card. After the route data is loaded, RoadMAPS performs a system self test. During the self test, RoadMAPS also removes the old export file from the PC memory card after verifying that the previous data upload to the host was successful.

  • Page 43: If No Route Data File Is Found

    If the computer does not start up, press and hold both mouse buttons (Figure 3.11) for at least 10 seconds. Release the buttons to restart the comptuer. After the route data is loaded, RoadMAPS performs a system self test. For more information on RoadMAPS self-diagnostics, see “Performing Diagnostics.”...

  • Page 44: Adjusting System Settings

    START • Press the to close the dialog box, and press the EXIT button to exit from RoadMAPS Soft- PROGRAM ware. Adjusting System Settings This section describes several settings you can make to the Road- MAPS Unit to make it easier and more comfortable to use.

  • Page 45: Using The Roadmaps Unit

    Chapter 4 Using the RoadMAPS Unit Using the RoadMAPS Unit to collect readings begins with the host software building a route file that is transferred to the RoadMAPS Unit via the PC memory card. The meter reader loads the memory card in the RoadMAPS Unit and begins automatic meter reading by driving the vehicle through the route and collecting readings.

  • Page 46: Route File Generation

    The host software processes route information according to the utility billing cycle and generates route files for meter reading. The last step is to transfer those files to RoadMAPS by copying the files onto PC memory cards. For information on Host software processing, see the RouteMAPS Software User’s Manual or EZ...

  • Page 47: Roadmaps Automatic Meter Reading

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit After the self-diagnostics sequence, RoadMAPS is ready for the meter reader to start collecting readings. Figure 4.2 illustrates the collection process. 1) Meter reader selects a route from the menu and drives to first address. 2) Meter reader selects Start to start automatic reading.

  • Page 48: File Transfer To Host And Billing System

    The only involvement by the meter reader in the process is to insert the PC memory card con- taining assigned routes into the RoadMAPS Unit before reading meters and then to remove the PC memory card to return it to the operator after reading meters.

  • Page 49: Reading Meters

    Reading Meters Because RoadMAPS automatically reads meters, efficient use of the system depends on the distance of the RoadMAPS Unit from the MIU being read and the vehicle’s driving speed. In a typical meter reading scenario, you drive your vehicle through the routes on the RoadMAPS selection screen in any order.

  • Page 50: Beeper Settings

    PC memory card. Beeper Settings A beeper is available in the RoadMAPS Unit to emit a beep tone for every account that is read and stored in RoadMAPS. This helps to monitor RoadMAPS meter reading without having to look at the laptop display.

  • Page 51: To Turn The Beeper On Or Off

    You can turn the beeper function on or off while the unit is performing readings. The default setting in RoadMAPS is for the beep tone to be turned off. To turn the beeper on or off Follow this procedure to switch the RoadMAPS beeper on or off.

  • Page 52: Selecting Routes

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit Selecting Routes This is an optional step if you want to review selected routes to determine a good starting point for reading. Access the Route Selection screen, shown in Figure 4.6, by pressing the Route Selection tab.

  • Page 53: Missed Reads Screen

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit Figure 4.7 Missed Reads Screen The Missed Read screen appears and displays the accounts in the route, with the first address in the route on the fist line. If necessary, select another address for your starting point.

  • Page 54: Detail Settings

    Go to the procedure “To begin meter reading,” on page 4-12 to begin reading the route. Detail Settings When viewing route information in RoadMAPS, you can view the details of a specific account. Account details consist of the follow- ing: •...

  • Page 55: To View Account Detail

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit To view account detail Follow this procedure to view account details for selected accounts. From the Route Selection screen, highlight the route contain- ing the account you want to view. Figure 4.9 Route Selection Screen with Account Highlighted Go to either the Missed Reads or Captured Reads screen, depending on whether or not account has already been read.

  • Page 56: Collecting Readings

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit Collecting Readings For the meter reader’s safety, the RoadMAPS Unit is designed so that there is no requirement to use the laptop display and keyboard while driving. To verify that the unit is reading properly, use the beeper option to monitor readings.
  • Page 57 30 m.p.h. Figure 4.10 Meter Reading Use the Beeper function on the RoadMAPS Unit to monitor meter reading while driving or in other situations where use of the laptop display or keyboard could compromise driver safety. See “To turn the beeper on or off,” on page 4-7.

  • Page 58: Route With All Reads Completed

    Missed Reads screen to see if there are any missed accounts. Choose from the following: • To pause RoadMAPS meter reading before all routes have been read, see “Pausing and Restarting Meter Reading,” on page 4-19. •...

  • Page 59: Navigation On The Route Display Screen

    This also gives you access to route details and individual account information. You can move between the routes whether or not RoadMAPS is actively reading meters. •...

  • Page 60: Identifying Missed Accounts

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit The top graphical progress bar displays the percentage of the route that is complete. Select the Missed Reads or Captured Reads screen. (See Both screens display the individual accounts within the selected route. The message area at the top of the screen dis- play the route number, total MIUs, total MIUs read, and total MIUs missed.

  • Page 61: Viewing Account Details

    Missed Reads screen. The meter reader then knows which addresses to reread. If for any reason RoadMAPS is not able to read unread MIUs on the second attempt, the meter reader can select specific accounts and use MIU Details dialog box to display more information for the account.

  • Page 62: To Move From One Account To The Next

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit To move from one account to the next Before completing readings for the addresses in a route, you can move between accounts to select the account to display. • Touch the screen with the stylus to select the desired account.

  • Page 63: Rereading Missed Accounts

    Pausing and Restarting Meter Reading Follow this procedure to stop and then restart data collection using the RoadMAPS unit. This is useful if you want to review the route reading status of a route or individual account or if you need to look up the starting address for a route to be read.

  • Page 64: Creating An Export File

    Using the RoadMAPS Unit Route button. The Reading indicator switches to a Paused Icon. To review account information before restarting, select either the Missed Reads or Captured Reads screen, depending on whether or not the account has already been read.

  • Page 65: Exiting Roadmaps Software

    Exiting RoadMAPS Software There are two screens, the Route Selection screen and the Route Export screen, that will allow you to exit the RoadMAPS software. From either screen, use the following procedure to exit the soft- ware and turn off the laptop.
  • Page 66 Using the RoadMAPS Unit Notes 4-22 RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 67: Closing The Roadmaps Unit

    Chapter 5 Closing the RoadMAPS Unit Follow this procedure to close up the RoadMAPS Unit and pre- pare it for removal from the vehicle. With the laptop computer turned off, close the laptop display. When closing laptop unit, make sure to push the center latch on the display downward and press firmly.

  • Page 68: Laptop And Cables Prepared For Closing

    Wrap both the plug-in power cable and the antenna cable in the Velcro strapping on the RoadMAPS Unit. Figure 5.1 Laptop and cables prepared for closing Remove the vehicle seat belt from the Seat belt Retention Loops and the Safety Latch on the RoadMAPS carrying case. RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 69: Cover Replaced On Roadmaps Unit

    Closing the RoadMAPS Unit Replace the cover on the RoadMAPS Unit and secure it by closing the latches and hasps on the unit. Figure 5.2 Cover replaced on RoadMAPS Unit RoadMAPS User’s Manual...
  • Page 70 Closing the RoadMAPS Unit Notes: RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 71: Specifications

    Built-in, solid state mouse Embedded numeric keypad 7 programmable function keys VGA Graphics Controller with 2MB VRAM. User adjustable contrast and intensity Display Light sensor which adjusts screen intensity per ambient light Shock/scratch resistant anti-glare plate Operating System Windows 95 RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 72: Environmental Conditions

    -40° to 185°F (-40° to 85°C) Operating Humidity 5% to 95% non-condensing relative humidity Dimensions and Weight Table A.1 Dimensions and Weight Dimensions Refer to following figure. Weight 50 lbs. 16.00 19.00 12.00 Figure A.1 RoadMAPS Unit Dimensions RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 73: Troubleshooting

    MAPS executes, but no Card has been inserted. inserted route data is available. Select Self-Diagnostics Incompatible data on PC mode on RoadMAPS start Memory Card. See “Per- menu to verify that the forming Diagnostics,” on data on the PC Memory Page B-2.

  • Page 74: Performing Diagnostics

    Broken antenna cable collects erroneous data. Performing Diagnostics RoadMAPS performs diagnostics at the time you start up the lap- top computer, but there are other times you may want to check the status of the system components. For example, you may need to review diagnostics information if requested by RoadMAPS sup- port personnel.

  • Page 75: Route Import Screen

    Press the System Check tab to display the System Check screen, as shown in Figure B.2. Figure B.2 System Check Screen The RoadMAPS System Check screen contains the following fields for meter reading components: • Meter Reader—Name of the meter reader as obtained from PC memory card files RoadMAPS User’s Manual...

  • Page 76: Roadmaps Unit

    • API Version—Firmware version installed on the RoadMAPS Unit • RoadMAPS Version—Identification of the version number of the RoadMAPS software • Transmitter— To exit the RoadMAPS System Check screen, select another screen from the tabs. RoadMAPS User’s Manual...
  • Page 77 Special key on the RoadMAPS keyboard that allows you to perform tasks quickly. The function keys used by RoadMAPS Software are on the top row of the laptop computer (PF1 - PF7) and in the two rows of F keys (F1 - F17). PF keys and F keys have an equivalent function in the RoadMAPS Software.
  • Page 78 Glossary highlighted Describes an item that is selected. When you select an item using the direc- tion keys, the RoadMAPS Software lets you know that it has been selected by accenting the item in reverse video. host computer A computer that is accessed by a user working on another PC or workstation;...
  • Page 79 To choose a route or address by positioning a highlighted area using function keys. The highlighted item is selected. upload The process of sending readings and route data from the RoadMAPS laptop to the host computer via PC Memory cards. Windows 95 A major release of the Microsoft Window operating system released in 1995.
  • Page 80 Glossary Notes: RoadMAPS User’s Manual...
  • Page 81 EZ RouteMAPS memory card. 1-1, 4-2 RouteMAPS port 1-1, 4-2 performing diagnostics placing the RoadMAPS unit in a vehicle icons plugging in the RoadMAPS power cable Caution plug-in power cord Note positioning your vehicle Warning product support...
  • Page 82 2-11 captured RouteMAPS Host Software 2-12 1-1, 4-2 missed 2-12 removing plug-in power cord Seatbelt Retention Loops RoadMAPS carrying case cover selecting the RoadMAPS antenna route information 4-15 re-reading missed accounts specifications 4-19 resuming automatic reading electrical 4-20...

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