A single ShapeArray (SAA) can be connected to Measurand’s SAAUSB adapter. The SAAUSB adapter appears as a serial port when it is connected to the PC running SAARecorder.

Note: Older versions of SAAUSB are not recommended for long-term data collection, as they apply power constantly to the ShapeArray. Any upsets to the system, such as a momentary interruption of the application of communication could lead to lock-up of one or more of the microprocessors in the ShapeArray. Without periodic cycling of power applied to the ShapeArray (such as when using SAA232 or SAA232-5 or a recent SAAUSB (model SAAUSB-003 or higher)), collection could eventually cease.



Cautions


  • The SAAUSB adapter is for interior use only. It is not waterproof.  
  • Measurand's SAAUSB adapter allows you to interface to a single ShapeArray; it appears as a RS-232 serial port on the PC. 
  • The SAAUSB is supplied with a +12 volt power supply that plugs directly into the SAAUSB. 
  • The USB plug end of the SAAUSB should be plugged into the PC before plugging in the ShapeArray and before finally plugging in the +12 volt power supply.




Step 1 - Connect the ShapeArray to the PC, SAAUSB, and Power


The following steps should be taken in order, when using the SAAUSB with a ShapeArray:


  1. Plug the USB plug into an available USB port on the PC where SAARecorder is installed 
  2. Mate the data cable from the ShapeArray to the round Amphenol connector of the SAAUSB 
  3. Apply power to the ShapeArray by plugging in the +12 VDC power supply into the power injector socket on the SAAUSB




Figure 1: An SAAUSB adapter - (A) Amphenol connector, (B) USB connection, (C) +12 V DC power connector




Step 2 - Start SAARecorder


Start SAARecorder. In SAASuite 3.0 or higher, the SAARecorder application is launched by clicking the Manual Data Collection button.


Figure 2: Launch SAARecorder from SAASuite by clicking the Manual Data Collection button


Open SAARecorder and click the Connect SAA button. 


Figure 3: The SAARecorder Startup window


In the Connect window, select the COM port you are using in the Serial Port(s) section. In the Connection to SAA section, select the SAAUSB option.  


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Figure 4: The SAARecorder Connect window


To go to the data collection portion of SAARecorder, click the Start with found SAAs button. Otherwise, click Next and follow the steps listed below.


Step 3 - Optional, Click on the Search Tab


Click on the Search tab in the Connect window of SAARecorder. This causes SAARecorder to look for ShapeArrays on each of the previously selected serial ports or SAA232-5 channels as described in the above mentioned guides. It tests communications with each microprocessor of a ShapeArray.

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Figure 5: The Search tab in the SAARecorder Connect window


Each microprocessor has a unique serial number and is responsible for one item based on the model of ShapeArray connected: 
  • Models 1 and 2 SAAF and SAAScan: An octet (group of 8 segments) 
  • Model 3 SAAF and later ShapeArrays: A segment (every segment has a microprocessor) 

If the search is successful and the expected devices are found, click the Next button, as shown in Figure 1 above. If any issues occur please refer to the Software FAQs.


Step 4 - Optional, Click on the Devices Tab


Some devices are not automatically detected. The Devices tab is where they would be added manually. Devices that have been previously found in the Connection or Search tab should appear here automatically. Some devices, such as piezometers and older ShapeArrays, need to be added manually. To add a device manually, click the Add Device link in the SAA Serial Numbers table.

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Figure 6: The Devices tab in the SAARecorder Connect window


In the Enter Device Serial Number dialog, enter the Serial Number and COM Port and click the OK button. 

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Figure 7: The Enter Device Serial Number dialog


Repeat this step until all desired devices have been added. Once all the devices have been selected click the Next button.


Step 5 - Optional, Click on the Test Tab


The Test tab runs Basic and Voltage / Current tests on the devices before starting SAARecorder application. Each test can be performed by clicking their respective buttons. Both tests can be performed if desired. The SAARecorder interface for viewing and recording data can be started by clicking the Continue button or clicking the Save and Continue button.


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Figure 8: The Test tab in the SAARecorder Connect window


Step 6 - Optional, Troubleshoot Connection Issues


If there are issues connecting, please refer to the following FAQs