Introduction
Figure 1: An SAASim
Measurand’s SAA Simulator (SAASim) was designed and developed to provide a low cost accessory to verify Data Logger programs. The SAASim simulates one to many ShapeArrays (SAAs) allowing customer program verification when physical ShapeArrays are not available. SAASim simulates models 1, 2, and 3 SAAF ShapeArrays as well as magnetometers and Measurand PZs.
It is not uncommon for the purchased ShapeArrays to be in the field while the data logger or data acquisition system are at the office waiting to be setup. The SAASim allows the data acquisition system or data logger to be verified for the specific ShapeArrays before going out to the field.
Description
The SAASim comes with five 5-pin terminal blocks representing up to 5 ShapeArrays. If more ShapeArrays need to be simulated, then more simulators will be needed or more wires can be added to the SAASim wiring harness.
When using an SAA232 or SAAFPU only one 5-pin terminal block is required.
When using an SAA232-5, all 5-pin terminal blocks can be used at once. When there are several SAA232-5s for one setup then more SAASims or expanding the current SAASim will be required. Contact Measurand for further information on expanding the current SAASim.
Measurand encourages the practice of labeling all SAA232s and SAA232-5 channels with the ShapeArray Serial Numbers as they were setup in the Software.
For further assistance with Measurand Applications and Utilities please review the ShapeArray Software Manuals web site.
Using SAASim
There are several related uses for the SAASim. Its primary function is to allow for the setup, testing and verification of LoggerNet and FileGenerator. In turn, this allows for the testing of the auto recording and conversion. DataChecker can be used to verify good data is received with the LoggerNet setup. The SAASim can also be used to practice using Measurand’s applications and utilities without using real data.
Figure 2: SAASim connected to two SAA232s in a data acquisition system with a CR800 data logger
Steps for using a ShapeArray Sim are outlined below.
Step 1 - Create Logger Program using FileGenerator
From SAASuite 3.x or newer, open FileGenerator by clicking on the Configure Logger Program button. Create a program matching your intended configuration. Ensure that the COM ports and the data logger type correctly match the intended installation configuration. The values in the Serial Number fields should match the serial numbers of the ShapeArray's used in the intended installation configuration.
Figure 3: SAACR_FileGenerator
Physically label where the specific ShapeArrays are setup to be read from so that in the field the appropriate ShapeArray is connected to the appropriate SAA232 or SAA232-5 interface port. In the field, if the wrong ShapeArray is connected to any of the SAA232s or SAA232-5 ports, then no data will be recorded. If the ShapeArrays are already installed, then it is vital to know what ShapeArray is where.
Once you have completed the program, click the Generate File button. Name the file and click the OK button. For further assistance, please refer to the FileGenerator manual.
Step 2 - Use LoggerNet to Load the Program File onto the Logger
Load the program file onto the logger using LoggerNet -> Connect -> File Control.
Figure 4: LoggerNet's Connect Screen and File Control
For further assistance, please refer to the LoggerNet manual.
Step 3 - Connect the SAASim to Appropriate Interfaces
Connect the SAASim cable assembly to the SAASim and to any required SAA232(-5) interfaces as configured in your logger program. The cable assembly in clearly shown in Figure 1 above.
Step 4 - Collect Data
After the SAASim has been connected to the appropriate interfaces, ensure your logger program has been started on the logger and that data is being collected from the SAASim.