Operating Manual. Comparator V7 / V8. Hardware and Software. Document Version A. Doc. No.: OM_PCE_VGL_ V7_ V8_v1.023_EN_A_ext.doc

Transcription

1 Operating Manual Comparator V7 / V8 Hardware and Software Document Version A Doc. No.: OM_PCE_VGL_ V7_ V8_v1.023_EN_A_ext.doc

2 Starting at Software Version Date 05/02/2015 File Name: OM_PCE_VGL_ V7_ V8_v1.023_EN_A_ext.doc

3 Contents 1 General VGL Functional Description Correlation between type of check and scanner Automatic recognizing of scanner type Comparator interfaces Abbreviations Hardware Technical data Difference between VGL V7 and V Description of the VGL LEDs Description of Scanner LEDs LEDs of LAS Connection unit and wiring System overview Connection unit terminal allocation VGL Cable Connection to Connection Unit Cable Length at Scanner Connection Cable Length Software Screen keyboard Production mode Main menu Production New Reference Code Delete meters Change password Settings on Comparator V7 - Production Check: On/off Check: Check mode Code types: Up to four code types Scanner type: Scanner type selection Settings on Comparator V7 Installation/Service Output 0, result signal: Reading gate and good signal selection Timing diagram Information on reading gate, good signal and code reading Information on reading gate, data transmission and analysis time Output 0, result signal: Pulse length Output 2: Wrong code output Output 3: Data ready output Scanner type: Scanner Service Communication: Send/Print (output parameters) Communication: Diagnosis Communication: Timeout Other settings: Test mode Other settings: Set comparator to default settings Other settings: Save Counters... 36

4 Other settings: Language selection Other settings: Information Scanner LAS1000 table Testing Reading Rate Decoding mode Number of decodings per code to code output Signal Enhancement Scanning Rate Laser intensity Laser width: On position Laser width: Off position Transfer speed Transfer starting signal Transfer terminator Background Color Pharmacode: Number of bars Scanner calibration Set comparator to basic settings LAS Settings on Comparator V8 - Production Pharmacode and Print Control with V Check: On/off Check: check mode Check: Quiet Zone Settings on Comparator V8 Service/Installation Output 0, result signal: Reading gate and good signal selection Output 0, result signal: Pulse length Output 0, result signal: Delay Output 2: Wrong code output Output 3: Data ready output Communication: Diagnosis Communication: Timeout Other settings: Save Counters Other settings: Language selection Other settings: Information Error Messages: Search and Analyze functions on Comparator V User and Password Administration Appendix Software history... 51

5 1 General 1.1 VGL Functional Description The comparator has the task to compare the code read by the scanner with the reference code. If the two match, the evaluation is considered as good. The evaluation is considered bad if no code or a wrong code is read. The comparator has a good and bad counter to keep track of the production. This and further parameter are saved when switched off and are available again after switch on. The comparator takes care of the communication and parametrization of the connected scanner, e.g. the LAS1000 scanner. The comparator generates the graphical user interface on the PC side by sending and receiving commands via the Ethernet interface. The comparator regulates and controls the machine signals. This means that it receives signals from the machine, such as reading gate signal and acknowledgement signal and returns various signals back to the machine, such as the good signal, and the system-ready signal. 1.2 Correlation between type of check and scanner A comparator check type can always be used in connection with a connected scanner. For example, bar codes and Pharmacodes can be used with the laser scanner and print check with light sensors. The type of check and scanner are generally used as follows: Type of check PCE scanner V7: Bar code and Pharmacode black and white LAS800, LAS1000 or LAS2000 V7: Print check Light sensor V8: Pharmacode PCE sensor 1.3 Automatic recognizing of scanner type The scanner type is automatically detected after the comparator is turned on. Accordingly, the "scanner type" parameter is adjusted. Recognizing is working for scanners type LAS800, LAS1000 and LAS2000. If no valid scanner type is found, the last scanner type setting will be still active. 1.4 Comparator interfaces Ethernet between comparator and computer The comparator is connected to the computer via Ethernet interface. The device supplies the graphic user interface for handling and displaying current values, e.g. meter readings, via said interface. The comparator's standard IP address is It can also be changed. RS232 between comparator and computer The RS232 that leads to the connection unit is currently not used. RS232 between scanner and comparator An RS232 interface for data transmission is used between the scanner and comparator. This interface is used to configure the scanner, and the scanner sends the scanned code to the comparator. 5 / 56

6 1.5 Abbreviations Please find below an overview of the abbreviations used and their meaning. Bar code Abbreviation or term CCD scanner MSC Client CR GND GUI High ID LASxxxx LED Reading gate LF Low PCE Pharmacode PLM Prefix Reference code reference code Scanner Suffix SVGL Sensor TVGL VGL Meaning in relation to documentation and device Bar code, e.g. Code128, Interleaved2/5, Code39, EAN-13 except for Pharmacode Scanner operating with a LED light PCE MSC client software for the operation of cameras and comparators An ASCII control character in device communication, carriage return Minus connection for device supply voltage Graphic user interface on the monitor used for operation State of input/output signals, level is at approx. 24V Identification number for comparator hardware e.g. LAS1000, scanner with red laser light Light Emitting Diode, Electronic semi-conductor component Signal length that provides the system's time of reading An ASCII control character in device communication, line feed State of input/output signals, level is at approx. 0V Pharmacontrol Electronic GmbH Bar code PCE Software - Pilot Line Manager for operation of cameras, printers and comparators A control character that is prefixed in data transmission The reference code that is compared to the scanned code Reading device for bar codes A control character that is suffixed in data transmission Scanner comparator PCE product with LED light used to read Pharmacode Scanning head comparator PCE comparator general, the device described in this document 6 / 56

7 2 Hardware Views of the comparator's casing are shown in the images. Comparator V7 and comparator V8 are installed in casings that look identical. The difference is found using the scanner connection and the type plate. The software also provides information on the distinction in the header on the main menu. View of the machine side with plug for the system cable and connector for the I/O cable. View of the scanner side with connector for scanner plug. VGL V7 has an 8-pole connector and VGL V8 has a 6-pole connector. 7 / 56

8 2.1 Technical data The table shows some parameters of the comparator box. Parameter Value Power supply 24V DC ±4V Inputs Outputs 24V DC ±8V The signal threshold is approx. 8.5V, input current approx. 4mA at 24V 24V DC Max. 200 ma per output, protected against short circuit and overload. 2.2 Difference between VGL V7 and V8 The VGL software supports two hardware versions: Hardware V7 for scanners and sensor Hardware for V8 sensor for checking the Pharmacode Hardware Software Reading device on VGL V7 v1.xxx Scanner or sensor, e.g. LAS1000, LAS2000 or UVS-5 V8 v1.xxx PCE sensor After software versions v and v , the software version designation changes to v This means that 7.0.xxx and 8.0.xxx become 1.xxx. 8 / 56

9 2.3 Description of the VGL LEDs Once the cover of the comparator is removed the CP board with the LEDs is visible. The illustration shows the position and function of the LED on the CP board. On inputs and outputs the illumination of an LED signals the 24V state and correspondingly an LED stays dark if a signal is applied. The Traffic LED indicates the sending and receiving of data on the Ethernet interface. The LEDs 24V, 5V and 3.3V are permanently illuminated and thereby show the state of the 24V power supply of external and internal 5V and 3.3V. 9 / 56

10 2.4 Description of Scanner LEDs LEDs of LAS1000 The illustration shows the LAS1000 Scanner with different LEDs. The LED close to the connection cable has multifunction. With a weak green light this LED shows the reading gate. The LED will flash intensive green or red once the evaluation is completed. Green means the evaluation is good, red means the evaluation is bad. The PWR LED indicates that the scanner has power supply. The 20%, 40% and 60% LEDs only flash during calibration mode and are off during normal production operation. The 80% ST LED lights up when the reading gate is connected, the laser beam lights and the scanner performs the reading. The 100% GR LED lights up during the read process as soon as a code is read. After the reading process the LED stays lit until the next reading process. 10 / 56

11 2.5 Connection unit and wiring This chapter describes connection unit L for PCE comparators. The connection unit offers easy ability to connect the PCE comparator to the local network and with the machine. The network signals are connected from the screw clamps to the RJ45 connector. The power supply, inputs and outputs are connected from screw clamps to screw clamps. The board is placed in a plastic carrier and can be mounted on a standard rail. The comparator uses the same cables as the PCE LAN Smart camera, the system cable and the input/output (I/O) cable. The picture shows the front side of the connection unit for both comparator cables. 1 2 Dimensions: D = 77mm; W = 56mm; H = 51mm 5 3 H 1 clamp for machine 2 RJ45 connectors (Ethernet) to switch 4 3 clamps for I/O cables for comparator 4 clamps for system cables for comparator D 5 LEDs for 24V supply, inputs and outputs W 11 / 56

12 2.6 System overview The graphic shows the most important components and connections in a sample construction with two comparators. 24V power supply and machines/plc-ios Scanner Comparator V7 System cable IO cable Connection unit L Scanning head Comparator V8 System cable IO cable Connection unit L Display Ethernet switch PC Sample system overview with two comparators. 12 / 56

13 2.7 Connection unit terminal allocation Top view of the connection unit (circuit board L1113-3) with the terminal positions, numbers and functions: Side with machine terminal (cables) In1 In 2 In 3 Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 TxD RxD PA3 free Reset Signal free System Ready Signal Wrong code Signal Data ready Signal RS232 of comparator RS232 of comparator Shielding for the RJ45 connector V +24V +24V Minus Minus In 0 Out 0 PA1 PA2 from power supply Bridge Bridge from power supply Bridge Reading gate from machine/ PLC/ Sensor Good signal for machine/ PLC Cable shielding for system cable Cable shielding for I/O cable In 1 In 2 In 3 Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 TxD RxD Shielding I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable I/O cable brown yellow orange black green red blue purple black V Minus In 0 Out 0 LAN TxD- LAN TxD+ LAN RxD- LAN RxD+ Shielding System cable System cable System cable System cable System cable System cable System cable System cable System cable white-blue blue brown white-brown white-orange orange white-green green black Side with comparator terminal (cable) 13 / 56

14 2.8 VGL Cable Connection to Connection Unit The illustration shows two comparator cables that are connected to a connecting unit. The shields should be placed on the grounding rail according to the principle shown. 14 / 56

15 2.9 Cable Length at Scanner The scanner has a firmly mounted cable with a plug at the end. The plug is inserted into the comparator. 0.9m cable length on scanner LAS2000 Scanner about 1.5m cable length on the scanner 15 / 56

16 2.10 Connection Cable Length System cable and I/O cable between comparator and connection unit: The plugs are inserted into the comparator, the open ends are placed on the connection unit. Available standard cable length for system cable and I/O cable: 5m 7m 10m 20m During installation the cable can be cut to the correct length. 16 / 56

17 3 Software The menu images show the graphic user interface (GUI) for scanner handling via the Pilot Line Manager (PLM). The GUI is created in the comparator box and will be sent via Ethernet to the PLM. The comparator can be operated either with the PCE PLM or with the PCE MSC client software. 3.1 Screen keyboard There is a keyboard displayed on the screen that is used to enter alphanumeric characters (reference code, parameters, etc.) via touch screen. It is always automatically displayed when the system expects an entry. Switches between upper- and lower-case letters as well as numbers and special characters Confirms the entry of characters or completes the entry Interrupts entry Shifts the keyboard upward, Shifts the keyboard downward Allows the keyboard to be positioned freely Closes the keyboard 17 / 56

18 3.2 Production mode The picture shows the comparator's production mode. In said production mode the device is ready for checks; the machine can be started. The system is no longer ready for checks once the top of the menu is pressed; the main menu appears to allow settings to be changed. Production mode is automatically started each time the system is started, and the comparator and scanner are ready for checks. Meter readings and all comparator parameters are saved when the system is shut down. Top of menu: Main menu display Good meter display: Amount of good products of the current production cycle Bad meter display: Amount of bad products of the current production cycle reference code display: Specified reference code Actual code display: Scanned code for the last product Last wrong code display: Last scanned code that did not match the reference code 18 / 56

19 3.3 Main menu This is where you can change the settings of the comparator. The comparator is not ready for checks during all menu operation. The "System ready" signal is "low", which generally causes the machine stop. The comparator's software version and hardware type can be found in the header on the main menu. For documentation purposes the software version is covered with a blank field. VGL V7 can be read as the hardware. Each hardware has its unique, hardware-specific ID number. The following is an explanation of the menu items on the main menu Production You can return to production mode by pressing the Production menu item. In production mode the device is ready for checks; the machine can be started. 19 / 56

20 3.3.2 New Reference Code This menu item is used to enter a new reference code. The reference code is used as a reference to compare with the scanned code. In order to generate a good signal the reference code must match the scanned "actual code". Entry is completed and saved by pressing "Enter". Maximum 50 characters may be entered as a reference code. The following characters are permitted as an actual code: ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz! #$%& ()*+,-./ :;=?@[\]^_{ }~ <>"; The space and The control character "group separator" (GS group separator, Dez 29, Hex 0x1d). The * character (asterisk) has a special function in the reference code. The * represents a user-defined character. This means every asterisk in the reference code allows for a user-defined character in the scanned code. One or more asterisks can be entered in the reference code. If, for example, ABC**** is entered as the reference code, a code read as ABC1234 or ABC1255 will generate a good signal. This function can be used with serial code content, for example. 20 / 56

21 3.3.3 Delete meters The Delete meters menu item sets the good and bad meters to zero. The good or bad meter is increased by one with each machine cycle. The good meter is increased by one if the last analysis between the scanned code and the reference code was good. The bad counter is increased by one if the last analysis was bad, for example because there was no code in front of the scanner. The meter values go from 0 to After the meter starts at 0 again Current meter values are saved when the system is shut down; the last values are displayed the next time the system is started. The Actual code and Last wrong code displays are also deleted when the meters are deleted Change password In the Change password menu item, the user can change his/her current password on the camera. 21 / 56

22 3.4 Settings on Comparator V7 - Production The Settings menu appears after pressing the Settings menu item. The light grey menu items cannot be selected. Depending on the connected scanner type detected by the comparator, either LAS800, LAS1000 or LAS2000 menu is active. As seen in the picture, scanner LAS1000 is connected. 22 / 56

23 A table with all comparator settings opens by selecting the Comparator menu item. Pressing a table entry will either open a submenu or the parameter directly changes its value from on to off and vice versa by repressing from off to on. The comparators Production table contains product depending parameters. All table selection options are listed and explained below Check: On/off On The display immediately switches to off or on by pressing On. On is normal operation. The comparator is in production mode and ready for checks. Off The comparator is turned off by the software. The message "Comparator is turned off" appears in production mode. The good signal output provides good pulses in every cycle in a shutdown state. The release of good pulses is independent from the scanned code. The good pulse is also released if no code is scanned. Due to this behaviour the machine can also run when the comparator is shut off. If the good mode is selected in the reading gate as the good signal form, then the good signal pulse is always released after the positive edge of the reading gate. On the good signal form continuous good and automatic good, the good signal is continuously on high to simulate the switched off state of the machine. 23 / 56

24 3.4.2 Check: Check mode The following check modes are available in the comparator. The check mode must be selected based on the connected device and the desired application. Presence control - Good: Actual>=Target Presence control is switched on. The length of the sensor pulse is measured. At least one pulse must be larger than the set reference value. Also refer to the chapter on scanner type sensor. Presence control - Good: Actual<=Target Presence control is switched on. The length of the sensor pulse is measured. At least one pulse must be smaller than the set reference value. Also refer to the chapter on scanner type sensor. Bar code The comparator is set for bar code check if this menu item is selected. The desired code types can be selected from the Code types line. Only choosing one type of code increases the system's check precision, whereas choosing multiple codes increases flexibility. Pharmacode binary - reading direction forward The system is configured to scan and check Pharmacodes. The Pharmacode is read forward from the scanner point of view. Forward means from left to right. Accordingly, the reference code must also be entered from left to right. Only the numbers 1 and 2 may be entered in the reference code. PHARMACODE binary - reading direction backward The system reads the Pharmacode from right to left and shows the scanned code as a binary. The reference code must also be entered and scanned from right to left and shown in binary form as a combination of 1s and 2s. PHARMACODE decimal - reading direction forward The system reads the Pharmacode from left to right and shows the scanned code as a decimal. The reference code must also be scanned from left to right and entered in decimal form. Pharmacode decimal - reading direction backward The system reads the Pharmacode from right to left and shows the scanned code as a decimal. The reference code must also be scanned from right to left and entered in decimal form. 24 / 56

25 3.4.3 Code types: Up to four code types Up to four code types can be selected. The scanner can recognize and read up to four different code types. Only one code type should be selected if the code type remains the same throughout the production batch. The remaining three code types should be selected as "No code". The following code types are available for scanner LAS1000 and LAS2000: For scanner LAS800 the following code types are available: 25 / 56

26 3.4.4 Scanner type: Scanner type selection The connected scanner type is automatically detected when the comparator is turned on. Automatic detection functions for scanner types LAS800, LAS1000 and LAS2000. The detected type is displayed as the scanner type in the table item. A submenu with the possible alternative scanner types appears by pressing the table item. Thus, the scanner type can also be manually entered, e.g. if the scanner type cannot be automatically detected in the event of connected light sensor. LAS800 The LAS800 scanner can read bar codes and Pharmacode. LAS1000 The LAS1000 scanner can read bar codes and Pharmacode. Sensor The type Sensor must be selected if, for example, the UVS5 sensor is connected to the comparator to check for availability. Other light sensors that supply a 24V signal can also be connected. For the use of 24V sensors a special cable is required between the sensor and comparator. As indicator species for the scanner type sensor Presence control> or = Presence control<= must be selected. Setting >= means at least one sensor pulse >= must be the reference value to perform an good evaluation. The system can measure 100 pulse of the sensor and display about 10 pulse in the GUI. During settings <= at least 1 pulse must be smaller than the reference value in order for a goods evaluation to take place. The goods signal mode automatic good only works in correlation with the presence control. The sensor signal is measured and displayed in length in ms units, a time value between 1ms ms must be entered as reference value. The maximum measured value is about 71minutes, thereafter an overflow to 0 occurs. No good signal is released if the sensor's +24V signal is not activated. Important: A low level must follow each of the sensor's high levels, otherwise there is no good signal with the next reading gate. 26 / 56

27 3.5 Settings on Comparator V7 Installation/Service The comparators Installation/Service table contains the general parameters which are mostly used once during system installation. 27 / 56

28 3.5.1 Output 0, result signal: Reading gate and good signal selection The selection determines the comparator's reaction to the reading gate input and the release of the good signal on the good signal output. With gate: Good pulse after reading gate This command activates the pulse mode for the good signal. The result signal is released after the reading gate. It is released with the reading gate's negative flank. With gate: Good pulse in reading gate The result signal is released in the reading gate. The release occurs as soon as possible after reading and analysis are completed. The time between the start of the reading gate and the start of the good signal varies depending on the reading and analysis time. The reading time is further dependent on the code's print quality and scanner settings. With gate: Good-permanent (with confirmation in event of malfunction) Good signal permanent operation is started. This means that the good signal remains permanently at "high" and only changes to "low" if there is a bad reading. The good signal only switches back to "good" once the bad reading has been confirmed. This function is generally connected to a machine stop. Without gate: Good-automatic (with uninterrupted reading) The comparator and scanner are set to uninterrupted reading. A good signal is automatically released if a good code is set in front of or passes by the scanner. The length of the good signal is determined by the good code's exposure time in front of the scanner. For example, a good signal is released as high if a good code is permanently placed in front of the scanner. The benefit of this mode is that no reading gate is necessary, but the more serious downside is that a code error cannot be detected. This can only be checked with a reading gate. This mode is only recommended in exceptional cases. The good signal mode good automatic only functions in connection with the bar code control, the pharma code control and the presence control >= and not with the presence control <=. The scanner must be set to >=500read/second and the amount of decoding per code must be set to 5 to ensure the proper functioning of the automatic good. The interface speed must be set to 9600Baud. If the automatic good is active, only the good counter is increased in the GUI and the good read codes are displayed as actual code. Wrong codes are not displayed as actual codes. Also, a code is not shown as last wrong code and the bad counter is not counted. The output signals wrong code and data ready are not active. 28 / 56

29 3.5.2 Timing diagram The following timing diagram should clarify reading gate and good signal behaviour. Machine/PLC reading gate 24V 0V With gate: Good pulse after reading gate Good reading Bad reading Good reading 24V 0V Reading Analysis time Analysis time Analysis time With gate: Good pulse in reading gate 24V Good reading Bad reading Good reading 0V Reading & analysis time Reading & analysis time Reading & analysis time With gate: Good-permanent with confirmation in event of malfunction 24V Good reading Bad reading 0V Reading Analysis time Confirmation Without gate: Good-automatic with uninterrupted reading Good reading Good reading No code or bad reading 24V 0V Reading & analysis time 29 / 56

30 3.5.3 Information on reading gate, good signal and code reading The reading gate determines the time of reading for the comparator and scanner. The reading gate is generally determined by the machine-plc. Alternatively, a cam sensor or light sensor can be used. The laser beam simultaneously lights up of the reading gate signal is high; thus, reading gate concerns can be easily detected. The Good signal in gate mode can be selected if the quickest possible good signal release is required. The reading gate should have a maximum length of approx. 10ms. The minimum length depends on the code's print quality, the scanner's reading time and the code's transmission time from the scanner to the comparator. For example, with code content of 50 characters the reading gate must be set to a corresponding length, i.e. >50ms. The recommended value is a reading gate length of approx. 100ms or greater. When checking the Pharmacode the reading gate can only be started once the code has been completely registered by the laser beam. This means the Pharmacode may not enter the laser beam. With regard to all bar codes with start and stop modules, the code is permitted to enter the activated laser beam. The scanner's reading time depends on the code's print quality and on the scanner settings, primarily on the "number of decodings" for a code Information on reading gate, data transmission and analysis time The graphic user interface is updated and data is transmitted via the command interface downstream from the reading gate even if the Good signal in reading gate mode is selected. The minimum time between reading gate signals is comprised of the good signal after the reading gate and the Ethernet interface data transfer time. The good signal downstream from the gate can be set to max. 40ms and the transmission time on the Ethernet interface is accepted with about 35ms. This results in a minimum time between reading gate signals of approximately 75ms. This minimum time can be reduced to approx. 30ms with the Reading gate in good signal setting. A low time between reading gate signals of approx. 100ms or more is recommended. The comparator's analysis time is approx. 3ms. This time is apparent if the good signal is configured after the reading gate, for example. The analysis time then occurs as a delay between the reading gate's negative flank and the good signal's positive flank. 30 / 56

31 3.5.5 Output 0, result signal: Pulse length The good signal released as a pulse on output 0 can be set to three different lengths. 10ms, 20ms and 40ms. A submenu with a selection of three options appears once the table field is pressed. 10 ms (pulse length) The result signal at "high" as a 10ms-long pulse. 20 ms (pulse length) The result signal at "high" as a 20ms-long pulse. 40 ms (pulse length) The result signal at "high" as a 40ms-long pulse Output 2: Wrong code output The Wrong code output signals the PLC that an invalid code was scanned. This function can result in a machine stop, for example. The pulse signal length always corresponds to the set good signal length. The signal states are designed in accordance with the following logic. Reading situation Signal state The scanned code does not match the reference code There is no code in front of the scanner or the code cannot be read The scanned code does not match the reference code = wrong code High pulse High pulse No pulse release, signal remains at low A high pulse is always released if the logic for Wrong code is turned off in the menu. In active operation the output's alarm state is the absence of a pulse. 31 / 56

32 3.5.7 Output 3: Data ready output The data ready signal is released on output 3; the signal length always corresponds to the set good signal length. The data ready signal is released with a delay of approx. 1ms to the good signal or approx. 1ms after the analysis time. The data ready signal also appears as a high pulse after the analysis time if the good signal remains at low. A PLC program, for example, can easily and quickly detect the absence of a good signal with the help of this signal. No high is released on the output if the function is turned off in the menu. The signal stays at low. The data ready signal is without function during continuously good and automatic good signal forms Scanner type: Scanner Service The service function for scanners can be turned on or off by pressing the table item. The service function allows PC software to communicate directly with the scanner. The comparator sends the data directly between the scanner and PC and depending on the data interfaces can be considered bridged. To use this function it is necessary to switch to production mode once the function has been activated. The comparator is now ready to exchange data. In the second step, an Ethernet connection to Port must be established using the desired PC software. With this function the comparator also redirects the RS232 scanner data to the PC Ethernet interface. This function is only for service functions and must be turned of in normal operation Communication: Send/Print (output parameters) In this menu all the current parameters for the VGL, the LAS800 or the LAS1000/2000 can be printed out for external documentation. When sending the parameters to port 23, a connected Telnet-Client program (e.g. JDataTrans) will receive those parameters in text form. When printing out the parameters, depending on the configuration, the user may be asked if he wants to print out the parameters on a printer (which must be connected to the PC) or to save them as a PDF document on the PC. 32 / 56

33 Communication: Diagnosis These functions are for service purposes. Service information sent by the comparator can be displayed on a window level using a terminal program. These functions must be deactivated for normal production operation. Output XML data on port 23 (expert mode) The comparator sends to port 23 all data that are exchanged between the comparator and PLM with the "XML port" remote port command. Output GUI data on port 23 (expert mode) The comparator sends to port 23 all data that are exchanged between the comparator and PLM with the "GUI port" operating port command. Release Ethernet info on port 23 and RS232 (Expert mode) The comparator sends the information to port 23 and RS232 via the connection mode of the XML and GUI ports. Output Ethernet information on port 23 (expert mode) The comparator sends to port 23 all information on the connection status of the XML and GUI ports. Output file information on port 23 (expert mode) The comparator sends to port 23 all information on loading and handling text files. Output sensor information on port 23 (expert mode) Only for V8: The comparator sends to port 23 all information on scanning the Pharmacode with the PCE sensor. Output XML ACK on port 23 The comparator sends to port 23 all information the sending and receiving of the ACK control character. This information is regularly exchanged between the comparator and PLM Communication: Timeout During communication between comparator software and PC software time out values are used. These values are useful as a time out to recognize a break of the Ethernet line. The first parameter represents the time out maximum for sending e.g. 3s, the second parameter is the time out maximum for receiving e.g. 10s. Changing the parameters will always pass through one after another. First the menu for time out of sending appears, after that the same menu for receiving appears. 33 / 56

34 Other settings: Test mode Is switched directly from on to off by pressing the table entry. Test mode on This function can be used for service functions, e.g. to mechanically calibrate the scanner. The function activates automatic scanner and comparator reading and checking. This means that the laser beam blinks continuously to read a code. It is necessary to switch to production mode in order to use test operation. The production mode is now active as test operation and the machine should be at a standstill. Test mode must be deactivated to continue with production. On one hand, the test mode is shown via test information in the production operation. On the other hand, the output OUT 2 is continuous switched on and off. This can be recognized by the flashing OUT 2 LED. If this LED is lit up, a reading is being performed, if the LED is dark, an evaluation is performed. Test mode off Test operation is turned off. Production mode can be used for normal inspection Other settings: Set comparator to default settings Various comparator parameters can be reset to default settings using this function. After pressing the table entry a sub-menu appears as security query. Cancel Use cancel function to return to the table without changes. Set comparator to default settings Various settings are set to the default factory settings. The table shows the comparator parameters that are being reset. Parameter Default setting Target code Value is deleted and provided new as "?" Last incorrect code Value is being deleted Good counter Value is set to 0 Bad counter Value is set to 0 RS232 starting signal "Prefix" Value is set to Line Feed (LF) RS232 terminator "Suffix" Value is set to Carriage Return (CR) Control mode Value is set to 0 Scanner Service Value is set to OFF 34 / 56

35 Carriage Return (CR) The table shows the LAS800 parameters that are being reset. Parameter Default setting LAS800 Scanner RS232 starting signal "Prefix" LAS800 Scanner RS232 terminator "Suffix" LAS800 Scanner Win-Parameter LAS800 Scanner Exit parameter LAS800 Scanner Baudrate LAS800 Scanner Programming mode LAS800 Scanner Reading mode LAS800 Scanner Code types Value is set to Line Feed (LF) Value is set to Carriage Return (CR) Value is set to 3 Value is set to 3 The value is set to the value selected in the comparator, either 9600Baud oder 57600Baud Mode is ended, if active Mode is set to one reading per code Value is set to the code type set in the comparator The table shows the LAS1000 parameters that are being reset. Parameter LAS1000 or LAS2000 Scanner Mode of decoding LAS1000 or LAS2000 Scanner Amount of decoding per code LAS1000 or LAS2000 Scanner Reading mode LAS1000 Scanner RS232 starting signal "Prefix" LAS1000 Scanner RS232 terminator "Suffix" LAS1000 Scanner Code types Default setting Value is set to "not consecutively" Value is set to 10 Mode is set to one reading per code Value is set to Line Feed (LF) Value is set to Carriage Return (CR) Value is set to the code type set in the comparator 35 / 56

36 Other settings: Save Counters If this option is set to On, the comparator will detect when the power supply is cut off and will save the current counter states. Default: Off Other settings: Language selection The following languages are available for the menu and display language. German English French Italian Currently Dutch, Turkish, Portuguese and Swedish are also available options. The software automatically switches to production mode once the language has been changed in order to initiate the new user interface settings and display Other settings: Information This window shows various information such as comparator address, PC IP address and software versions. 36 / 56

37 3.6 Scanner LAS1000 table A table with all of the LAS1000 scanner's parameters opens after pressing the Scanner LAS1000 menu item. All table selection options are listed and explained below. 37 / 56

38 3.6.1 Testing Reading Rate After selecting test read rate, a sub-menu appears. The sub-menu shows the following options: Start read rate in %. Start read rate/seconds After selecting a start option the scanner reads permanently the code at the scanner. At the same time the scanner evaluates the read quality of the code by means of the amount of readings. This evaluation is displayed in the display as % value or read/seconds. After 10 issued rows the functions ends automatically. This function can be used to interpret the read quality, e.g. after the read parameter is changed at the scanner Decoding mode The laser beam often moves over the code during the reading gate. This generally results in many individual readings. The decoding mode indicates whether or not individual readings are analysed in succession. The possible settings are: In succession Not in succession Number of decodings per code to code output This parameter determines the number of decodings of individual readings for the code to be deemed valid. The setting 3 means that the scanner must scan the code at least three times to deem it valid and subsequently send it to the comparator. Large values increase reading time Signal Enhancement The parameter group under the designation signal amplification controls the increase of the bar-space signal in the scanner. Due to the adjustability of the increase, the scanner can be adapted to strong and weak contrasts of a code. The increase can be controlled either automatically via the scanner or manually specified within two limits. Accordingly, the four values for the signal amplification are listed below: Value for amplification: Amplification value Automatic or manually Minimum value for automatic amplification Maximum value for automatic amplification When switching to one of the four controling types for Pharma codes the amplification is set to the value = 80 and Mode = manual. When switching to the control type Barcode, the mode of the amplification is automatically set with the limits Min. = 70 and Max. = / 56

39 3.6.5 Scanning Rate The scanning speed describes at which speed the scanner reads a code: The setting possibilities are from 300reads/second reads/second Laser intensity Laser beam intensity can be set to three levels: weak, average and strong. For example, settings should preferably be set to weak for thin brochure paper. The average or strong settings can be helpful if there are poor contrast ratios between the code and the background. The three possible settings are: Weak Average Strong Laser width: On position This parameter determines the laser beam's switch-on point. A smaller value turns the laser on earlier, i.e. it becomes broader on one side. A larger value turned the laser on later, i.e. it becomes thinner on one side Laser width: Off position The parameter determines the laser beam's shutoff point. A smaller value turns the laser off earlier, i.e. it becomes thinner on one side. A larger value turned the laser off later, i.e. it becomes broader on one side. 39 / 56

40 3.6.9 Transfer speed The transfer speed parameter determines the speed of the RS232 interface between scanner and comparator. For example, the faster transfer with baud can be selected if the machine speed is very high with a connected very short comparator reading gate. In general, 9600 baud can be used. The options are: 9600 baud baud Transfer starting signal This parameter indicates the starting signal of the RS232 transfer between scanner and comparator. In general, the setting LF = Line Feed can be used. Additional options include starting signals such as BEL, BS, HAT, VT, FF, CR, ESC, SPACE, DEL or a representable symbol Transfer terminator This parameter indicates the terminator of the RS232 transfer between scanner and comparator. In general, the setting CF = Carriage Return can be used. Additional options include starting signals such as BEL, BS, HAT, VT, FF, CR, ESC, SPACE, DEL or a representable symbol Background Color The parameter background color indicates the background color of the code. Via the selection possibilities: Background = white Background = black the black codes can be checked on white background and vis a vie the white codes can be checked on black background Pharmacode: Number of bars During the reading of Pharmacodes the length of the code can be selected from two settings. Pharma code to be read = varible length Pharma code to be read = target code length The setting variable length means that the system can read and display Pharma codes with different length during production mode. The setting target code length means that in production mode the system can only read and display the codes that correspond to the target code length If the user for example entered a target code of 22112, then the system.only reads the Pharma code with 5 bars. On the sub-menu bar width of Pharma code the following selection can be made: Thin and thick bars Only thin bars Only thick bars According to the PCE Pharma code requirements the Pharmacode should always consist of thin and thick lines. This ensures the best reading performance. In order for a code consisting only of thin or thick printed lines to be read, the desired selection must be made and set by the user. 40 / 56

41 Scanner calibration The Calibration submenu appears when selected. Here a selection can be made between Start calibration and Save settings. A calibration process is executed as follows. First, a code with good or the available print quality must be placed in front of the scanner. Subsequently, the process is started with the Start calibration menu item. The scanner starts the laser beam and calibrates various parameters through continuous reading. Information such as the depiction of points to show progress is displayed during the calibration process. A message is shown at the end of the process indicating whether or not the process was successful, e.g.: Autocal was successful Autocal was unsuccessful The warning "Motor cannot reach desired speed" has no adverse effects and can be ignored. If the process was successful and the message "Autocal was successful" appears, the calculated values can be permanently saved in the scanner via the Save settings submenu. Otherwise the parameters will be discarded at the next system start. Calibration means that the scanner optimises internal reading parameters so that it can also read poorly printed codes, for example. In this case calibration does not mean that a reference is used for calibration. 41 / 56

42 Set comparator to basic settings Once selected, an additional submenu appears as a confirmation prompt. Here the options are Cancel Set comparator to basic settings For example, after a new scanner has been connected various parameters in the scanner can be set to basic settings. 3.7 LAS2000 The LAS2000 table is identical to the LAS1000 table. All parameters explained for LAS1000 also apply to LAS / 56

43 3.8 Settings on Comparator V8 - Production VGL V8 is shown in the header to identify the hardware. The scanner menu items for Scanner LAS800, LAS1000 and LAS2000 are always dimmed in grey and thus cannot be selected. The PCE sensor is always used as the scanner type. In contrast to a LAS1000 scanner, no settings are made in a PCE sensor Pharmacode and Print Control with V8 The comparator V8 can be connected to a beam spot scanning unit. With this system it is possible to check a Pharma bar code with at least two lines and maximum 16 lines length. The Pharma code can be printed on folded boxes, product insert or on tubes. The spot scanning unit can also be used for a presence control, e.g. for leaflets, folding boxes, and labels by detecting the presence of the printing. Another available control is the detection of the registration marks on tubes. It must be activated by setting up a special good signal form. Also refer to Chapter "Good signal" 43 / 56

44 A table with all comparator settings opens by selecting the Comparator menu item. Pressing a table entry will either open a submenu or the parameter directly changes its value from on to off, for example, and vice versa by repressing from off to on. The comparators Production table contains product depending parameters. All table selection options are listed and explained below Check: On/off This function is identical to VGL V7. Explanation, see above. 44 / 56

45 3.8.3 Check: check mode The following check modes are available in the comparator. The check mode must be selected based on the connected device and the desired application. Presence control good: current >= reference The number of changes from white-to-black and black-to-white will be counted (within the reading gate). If the number of changes is equal or higher than the currently set reference value, the Comparator will give a positive reading result. Presence control good: current <= reference The number of changes from white-to-black and black-to-white will be counted (within the reading gate). If the number of changes stays equal or smaller than the currently set reference value, the Comparator will give a positive reading result. Pharmacode binary - reading direction forward The system is configured to scan and check Pharmacodes. The Pharmacode is read forward from the scanner point of view. Forward means from left to right. Accordingly, the reference code must also be entered from left to right. Only the numbers 1 and 2 may be entered in the reference code. Pharmacode binary - reading direction backward The system reads the Pharmacode from right to left and shows the scanned code as a binary. The reference code must also be entered and scanned from right to left and shown in binary form as a combination of 1s and 2s. Pharmacode decimal - reading direction forward The system reads the Pharmacode from left to right and shows the scanned code as a decimal. The reference code must also be scanned from left to right and entered in decimal form. Pharmacode decimal - reading direction backward The system reads the Pharmacode from right to left and shows the scanned code as a decimal. The reference code must also be scanned from right to left and entered in decimal form Check: Quiet Zone The quiet zone parameter determines the minimum necessary quiet zone before and after the Pharmacode. For codes printed in black the quiet zone is a white area before and after the code that may not be printed. The minimum white quiet zone on the paper is calculated by multiplying the quiet zone parameter by the thinnest bar in the code. For example, with a setting of 6, the quiet zone is 6x the thinnest bar in the code. A smaller value results in a smaller quiet zone and a larger value results in a correspondingly large minimum quiet zone. 45 / 56

46 3.9 Settings on Comparator V8 Service/Installation The comparators Installation/Service table contains the general parameters which are mostly used once during system installation. 46 / 56

47 3.9.1 Output 0, result signal: Reading gate and good signal selection The selection determines the comparator's reaction to the reading gate input and the release of the good signal on the good signal output. The settings for With gate: Good pulse after reading gate With gate: Good pulse in reading gate With gate: Good-permanent (with confirmation in event of malfunction) are identical to VGL V7. Explanation and signal diagram, see above. Without gate: Good pulse after code This mode is for Pharmacode reading only. The comparator will react to the edge of a bright box flap or a label and will then start reading the code. After successfully reading a code (good or bad) the comparator will immediately begin handling the result signal (depending on configuration of pulse length and delay). With gate: God pulse after registration marks (only for tube orientation) This special mode checks for the presence of a bar in the reading gate. This bar should generally represent the registration mark on a tube used for orientation. The comparator releases the good signal once the sensor detects the registration mark Output 0, result signal: Pulse length The good signal released as a pulse on output 0 can be set to three different lengths. 10ms, 20ms and 40ms. A submenu with a selection of three options appears once the table field is pressed. 10 ms (pulse length) 20 ms (pulse length) 40 ms (pulse length) The settings are identical to VGL V Output 0, result signal: Delay The delay parameter is used to delay the good signal. This parameter is generally only used in connection with the setting Good signal in reading gate and to check for a registration mark. The parameter determines the signal release delay after the registration mark has been detected. The value entered is used with the unit milliseconds. The value 0 means a delay of 0ms and the function is thus turned off. 47 / 56