Панаметрикс рт878 руководство по эксплуатации

• Contents

• Table of Contents

• Bookmarks

Summary of Contents for Panametrics TransPort PT878GC

• TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 95 Chapter 6. 6.1.5.1 Specifying the Number of Displayed Parameters As mentioned earlier, the PT878GC can display one to four different measurement parameters simultaneously. However, sometimes you might wish to display only one or two parameters. To change the number of open display windows: 1. Press [MENU]. 2. From the Site Menu (shown in Figure 91 above), use the [ ]or [] arrow keys to move to the desired number of views (1 View, 2 Views, etc.) Press [ENTER]. The screen displays the designated number of windows. For

• Appendix A. 188 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual
  

• TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 175 Chapter 10. Table 8: Error Messages Error Message Problem Possible Cause Action E0 No error. Displays briefly after the display of another error message None required. Measurement is valid. E1 Low Signal — Poor ultrasonic signal strength. Broken cable. Flowcell problem. Transducer problem. Electronic failure. Check transducer cable. See Flowcell Problems on page 10-9 and Transducer Problems on page 10-11. Check programming and transducer spacing. Contact the factory if probl

• TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 97 Chapter 6. 5. Press [ENTER] to confirm the entry, and press [F3] (OK) to confirm the entry and close the window. (Press [F2] (Cancel) to close the window without changing the key.) The screen now appears similar to Figure 6-10 on the next page, with the [F1] window displaying “Contrast.” Pressing [F1] opens the Contrast window. • To customize a softkey from a particular menu: 1. Open the desired menu on the M

• Chapter 4. 66 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 4.1.11 Entering the Digital Output While resembling the Analog Output option, the Digital Output option enables you to set up parameters necessary for a digital output. To enter the option, scroll to the Digital Output entry on the Program Menu and press [ENTER]. The screen appears similar to Figure 63 below. To step through each parameter, press the [] key. Refer to Figure A-7 on page A-7 of Appendix A, Menu Maps. Figure 63: The Digital Output

• Chapter 1. 2 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 1.1.2 System Description The TransPort is only one part of the flowmeter system. The other part of the system is the flowcell, which consists of the pipe and the transducers. 1.1.2.1 The Flowcell The flowcell is that part of the system that uses ultrasonic pulses to interrogate the flow. It consists of the flowcell pipe and the transducers. 1. . FLOWCELL PIPE — The flowc

• Appendix B. 198 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual B.1.0.2 Windows NT4.0 For IR use, Windows NT4.0 requires installation of QuickBeam software from Extended Systems (www.extendedsystems.com ). Desktop PCs and laptops without built-in IR ports also require adding an IR dongle. While laptops with a built-in IR port normally do not require a dongle, its addition might be necessary in some cases. B.1.0.3 Window

• Chapter 9. 154 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 9.1.7 Calibrating the Analog Output and Inputs The Calibration option allows you to calibrate the analog output and inputs. To enter the option, scroll to the Calibrate entry on the Service Menu and press [ENTER]. The screen appears similar to Figure 142 below. Figure 142: The Outputs Window in the Calibration Option 9.1.7.1 Calibrating the Analog Output The calibration procedure consists of calibrating the

• Chapter 10. 176 TransPort™ PT878GC User’s Manual 10.1.2 Displaying Diagnostic Parameters As part of its measurement menu, the PT878GC offers a list of diagnostic parameters to aid in troubleshooting in the event of flowcell, transducer, or electrical problems. You can select any diagnostic parameter for display as a measurement as discussed in The Measurement Option. Table 9 below shows all the available diagnostic parameters and ranges. Table 9: Diagnostic Parameters Diagnostic Parameter Displays Good Bad T Displays Delta T, or the difference between th

GE

Sensing & Inspection Technologies Flow

TransPort® Model PT878

Portable Liquid Flowmeter

User’s Manual

910-219 Rev. F

November 2009

GE

Sensing & Inspection Technologies

TransPort® Model PT878

Portable Liquid Flowmeter

User’s Manual

910-219 Rev. F
November 2009

GESensingInspection.com

©2009 General Electric Company. All rights reserved.

Technical content subject to change without notice.

[no content intended for this page — proceed to next page]

ii

Preface

Information Paragraphs

• Note paragraphs provide information that provides a deeper understanding of

the situation, but is not essential to the proper completion of the instructions.

• Important paragraphs provide information that emphasizes instructions that

are essential to proper setup of the equipment. Failure to follow these
instructions carefully may cause unreliable performance.

• Caution! paragraphs provide information that alerts the operator to a hazardous

situation that can cause damage to property or equipment.

• Warning! paragraphs provide information that alerts the operator to a

hazardous situation that can cause injury to personnel. Cautionary information
is also included, when applicable.

Safety Issues

WARNING! It is the responsibility of the user to make sure all local, county,

state and national codes, regulations, rules and laws related to
safety and safe operating conditions are met for each
installation.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual iii

Preface

Auxiliary Equipment

Local Safety Standards

The user must make sure that he operates all auxiliary equipment in accordance
with local codes, standards, regulations, or laws applicable to safety.

Working Area

WARNING! Auxiliary equipment may have both manual and automatic

modes of operation. As equipment can move suddenly and
without warning, do not enter the work cell of this equipment
during automatic operation, and do not enter the work
envelope of this equipment during manual operation. If you do,
serious injury can result.

WARNING! Make sure that power to the auxiliary equipment is turned OFF

and locked out before you perform maintenance procedures on
the equipment.

Qualification of Personnel

Make sure that all personnel have manufacturer-approved training applicable to the
auxiliary equipment.

Personal Safety Equipment

Make sure that operators and maintenance personnel have all safety equipment
applicable to the auxiliary equipment. Examples include safety glasses, protective
headgear, safety shoes, etc.

Unauthorized Operation

Make sure that unauthorized personnel cannot gain access to the operation of the
equipment.

iv Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Preface

Environmental Compliance

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies is an active participant in Europe’s
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) take-back initiative,
directive 2002/96/EC.

The equipment that you bought has required the extraction and use of
natural resources for its production. It may contain hazardous substances
that could impact health and the environment.

In order to avoid the dissemination of those substances in our environment
and to diminish the pressure on the natural resources, we encourage you to
use the appropriate take-back systems. Those systems will reuse or recycle
most of the materials of your end life equipment in a sound way.

The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol invites you to use those systems.

If you need more information on the collection, reuse and recycling
systems, please contact your local or regional waste administration.

Visit http://www.gesensing.com/environment/weee.htm

for take-back

instructions and more information about this initiative.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual v

Preface

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vi Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

1.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2 System Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1.2.1 The Flowcell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1.2.2 Electronics Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

1.3 Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.1 Making Electrical Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

2.1.1 Power Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2.1.2 Transducer Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2.1.3 Input/Output Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2.1.4 The Infrared Wireless Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2.2 Caring for the PT878 Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2.1 Charging and Storing the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2.2 Replacing the Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.2.3 Disposing of Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2.3 Powering ON and OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

2.4 Using the Screen and Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

2.4.1 Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

2.4.2 Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

2.5 Obtaining On-Line Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual vii

Contents

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.1 Entering the Program Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

3.2 Entering Transducer Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

3.2.1 Parameters for Special Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

3.2.2 Confirming Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

3.4 Entering Pipe Lining Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

3.5 Entering Fluid Types and Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

3.6 Entering the Signal Path Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.6.1 Path Parameters for Clamp-On Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

3.6.2 Path Parameters for Wetted Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

3.7 Entering the Energy Option Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

3.7.1 Entering Inputs in the Energy Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

3.7.2 Entering Custom Cp Data in the Energy Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

3.8 Entering Analog Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

3.8.1 Entering General-Purpose Analog Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

3.8.2 Entering Analog Inputs in the Energy Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

3.9 Entering the Analog Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

3.10Entering the Digital Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

3.11Entering User Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

3.11.1 Entering Correction Factors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

3.11.2 Entering Reynolds Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

3.11.3 Entering a Calibration Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

viii Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 4. Creating and Managing Sites

4.1 The Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

4.1.1 Creating a New Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

4.1.2 Opening an Existing Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

4.1.3 Saving a Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

4.1.4 Saving a Site with a Different Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

4.1.5 Refreshing a Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

4.1.6 Renaming a Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

4.1.7 Deleting a Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

4.1.8 Creating a Site Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

4.1.9 Printing a Current Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

4.1.10 Transferring a Site File to a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

4.1.11 Transferring a Site File in Text Format to a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

4.1.12 Transferring a File from a PC to the PT878. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

4.1.13 Listing Files by Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

4.1.14 Listing Files in Chronological Order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Chapter 5. Displaying and Configuring Data

5.1 The Format Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

5.2 The View Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

5.3 The Limits Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

5.4 The Measurement Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

5.5 Customizing the Display Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

5.5.1 Specifying the Number of Displayed Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

5.5.2 Customizing Softkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

5.6 Managing Files — The Drive Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

5.6.1 Transferring a File to a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

5.6.2 Transferring a File from a PC to the PT878. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

5.6.3 Refreshing a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

5.6.4 Deleting a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

5.6.5 Listing Files by Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

5.6.6 Listing Files in Chronological Order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

5.7 Accessing Meter Data —The About Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual ix

Contents

Chapter 6. Programming Meter Settings

6.1 Entering the Meter Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

6.2 Selecting Measurement Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

6.3 The Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

6.4 Entering Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

6.5 Changing Date and Time Appearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

6.6 Adjusting the Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

6.7 Setting Backlight Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

6.8 Changing the Display Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

6.9 Changing Communications Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

6.10Resetting Forward and Reverse Totals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

6.11Setting Up User Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

6.12Taking a Bitmap Capture of a Current Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

x Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 7. Logging Data

7.1 Entering the Logging Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

7.2 The Log Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

7.3 The File Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

7.3.1 Setting up a New Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

7.3.2 Copying (Cloning) a Selected Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

7.3.3 Renaming a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

7.3.4 Deleting a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

7.3.5 Deleting All Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

7.3.6 Refreshing the Log Manager Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

7.3.7 Printing a Log. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

7.3.8 Transferring a Log to a PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

7.4 The Log Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

7.4.1 Stopping (Pausing) a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

7.4.2 Restarting a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

7.4.3 Ending a Log. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

7.4.4 Stopping All Logs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

7.4.5 Restarting All Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

7.4.6 Ending All Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

7.4.7 View All Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

7.5 The View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

7.5.1 Displaying Log Details. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

7.5.2 Displaying Log Data in Graphical Form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

7.5.3 Displaying Log Data in Spreadsheet Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

7.6 The Sort Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

7.6.1 Listing Logs by Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

7.6.2 Listing Logs in Chronological Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual xi

Contents

Chapter 8. Servicing the PT878

8.1 Entering the Service Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

8.2 Printing Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

8.3 Setting up the Thickness Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

8.4 Measuring Pipe Wall Thickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

8.4.1 Entering the Material and Soundspeed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

8.4.2 Measuring Thickness in Numeric Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

8.4.3 Displaying the Receive Signal in Graphical Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

8.4.4 Calibrating the Thickness Gauge Transducer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

8.4.5 Calculating Velocity (Pipe Material Soundspeed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

8.5 Programming the Thickness Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

8.6 Displaying Diagnostic Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

8.7 Calibrating the Analog Output and Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

8.7.1 Calibrating the Analog Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

8.7.2 Calibrating Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

8.8 Setting up Signal Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

8.8.1 Setting up Signal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

8.8.2 Setting up Peak Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

8.8.3 Selecting the Transmit Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

8.9 Setting Error Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184

8.10The Test Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

8.10.1 Testing the Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

8.10.2 Testing the Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

8.10.3 Testing the Watchdog Timer Circuit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

8.10.4 Setting Impulse Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

8.10.5 Taking Wave Samples for Diagnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

8.10.6 Applying a Stored Signal for Diagnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

8.10.7 Testing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

8.11Resetting to Factory Default Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194

8.12Updating PT878 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

8.12.1 Updating Software Via IrOBEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

8.12.2 Updating Software Via IrCOMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

xii Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 9. Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

9.1 Error Code Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204

9.2 Displaying Diagnostic Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

9.3 Flowcell Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

9.3.1 Fluid Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

9.3.2 Pipe Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

9.4 Transducer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

9.4.1 Wetted Transducer Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

9.4.2 Clamp-on Transducer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211

9.4.3 Relocating Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

Chapter 10. Specifications

10.1Overall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

10.1.1 Hardware Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

10.1.2 Size/Weight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

10.1.3 Enclosure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

10.1.4 Flow Accuracy (Velocity, % of reading): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

10.2Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214

10.3Operational Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

10.4Transducer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

10.4.1 Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

10.4.2 Temperature Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

10.5Pipe Size and Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

10.5.1 Clamp-On Transducers: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

10.6Available Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual xiii

Contents

Appendix A. Menu Maps

Appendix B. Measuring P and L Dimensions

Appendix C. Temperature Transmitter Installation

C.1 Guidelines for RTD Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
C.2 Mounting RTDs on the Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244

C.2.1 Assembling the Clamping Fixture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
C.2.2 Mounting the RTD to the Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245

C.3 Making Electrical Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245

C.3.1 Connecting the RTD to the 4 to 20-mA Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
C.3.2 Connecting the Transmitter to the PT878. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247

Appendix D. Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge Theory of Operation

D.1 Factors Affecting Performance and Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250

D.1.1 Transducer Positioning/Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
D.1.2 Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
D.1.3 Taper or Eccentricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
D.1.4 Acoustic Properties of the Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252

Appendix E. Material Safety Data Sheet for Couplant

E.1 Product Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
E.2 Hazardous Ingredients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
E.3 Physical Data (nominal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
E.4 Fire and Explosion Hazard Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
E.5 Reactivity Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
E.6 Health Hazard and First Aid Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
E.7 Storage and Handling Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
E.8 Control Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256

Appendix F. Establishing IR Communications

Appendix G. Glossary

xiv Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

The TransPort® Model PT878 is a transit-time flowmeter which combines
all the features of a full-size flowmeter with the advantages of a portable
instrument.

This section describes the TransPort features and general system, and
explains the theory of operation.

1.1 Overview

The PT878 measures the flow rate of acoustically conductive single-phase
fluids. This includes most clean liquids, sewage, some slurries, some
oil/water mixtures, and liquids with a small percentage of entrained gas
bubbles. The flowmeter provides one linear (0/4-20 mA) analog output of
flow velocities or volumetric flow rate of these fluids, measuring velocities
from ±0.03 to ±12 m/sec (±0.1 to ±40 ft/sec), along with one selectable
frequency output or pulsed totalizer output.

The PT878 also provides two 4 to 20-mA analog inputs in order to connect
temperature transmitters to measure energy flow rate of liquids. Energy
flow rate may be calculated for water, glycol, and water/glycol mixtures.

The PT878 has the ability to store site data in files which can be accessed at
a later time. Within the Main Menu, a set of forms (windows) asks you all
the necessary setup information for a particular site. Once the necessary
questions are answered, you simply save the information to a file.

The PT878 stores these files and other data in non-volatile memory, which
retains the information even if power is off. The flowmeter itself runs on
rechargeable or alkaline batteries for up to 10 hours.

This small lightweight flowmeter displays measurements in both numeric
and graphical form on a EL-backlit, 240 x 200 pixel LCD graphic screen.
The PT878 also has the capability of logging over 100,000 flow data points
internally.

Using an infrared communications port, the PT878 can transmit or print
logged data, as well as real time data and other stored data. It is also
computer-programmable via GE’s PanaView™ software.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 1

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

1.1 Overview (cont.)

To assist you, the PT878 is fully equipped with context-sensitive on-line
help which is accessible at any time by simply pressing the “?” (Help) key.
Internal diagnostic and troubleshooting features help is olate and remedy
common flowcell and transducer problems.

The PT878 operates with all standard GE transducers — wetted, clamp-on,

®

hybrids (Pan-Adapta

plug), and buffered styles.

A built-in ultrasonic thickness gauge capability measures the pipe wall
thickness when used with the optional thickness transducer.

1.2 System Description

The PT878 is one part of the flowmeter system. The flowmeter system
consists of two essential subsystems: the flowcell and the electronics
package (the PT878).

1.2.1 The Flowcell

The flowcell is that part of the system that uses ultrasonic pulses to
interrogate the flow. It consists of the flowcell pipe and the transducers.

A. FLOWCELL PIPE — The flowcell can either be created in the existing

piping (for example, by inserting wetted transducers into the pipe, or
clamping non-wetted transducers onto the pipe), or inserted as a
substitute pipe section (spoolpiece). The flowcell must provide
mechanical support for the transducers and assure stable fluid conditions
for accurate flow measurement.

B. TRANSDUCERS — The transducers convert electrical energy into

ultrasonic pulses when in a transmit cycle, and convert the ultrasonic
pulses back to electrical energy when in a receive cycle. In other words,
they act like loudspeakers when transmitting the signal and microphones
when receiving it. In the PT878 system, each transducer acts as both a
receiver and transmitter, since a series of ultrasonic pulses are alternately
sent upstream and then downstream through the flowcell.

2 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

1.2.2 Electronics Package

The PT878 consists of circuits that generate, receive, and measure the travel
time of the ultrasonic pulses. It also contains a microcomputer that controls
operation and calculates flow measurement parameters. Specific circuits
function as follows:

• TRANSMIT SIGNAL GENERATOR — The transmit signal generator,

under control of the microcomputer and timing circuit, synthesizes the
signal that drives the transmitter.

• TRANSMITTER — The transmitter amplifies the signals from the

transmit signal generator to a signal that drives the transmit transducer.

• RECEIVER — The receiver amplifies the received signals to a level

suitable for the data acquisition circuitry.

• DATA ACQUISITION — The data acquisition circuitry digitizes the

received signal and stores it in a buffer for processing by the
microcomputer.

• TIMING CIRCUIT — The timing circuit generates the transmitter

frequency, receive window, controls the data acquisition circuit and the
direction of the transmission.

• MICROCOMPUTER — The microcomputer controls the PT878

flowmeter’s operation and calculates flow measurements derived from
the transmitted and digitized received signals. Also, the microcomputer
continually checks for faults and allows the use of built-in diagnostics for
troubleshooting.

• INPUT/OUTPUT — The input/output circuitry allows the flowmeter to

indicate the measured flow with the 0/4-20 mA current loop, and to
output to a printer or other remote device. The digital output supports
frequency or pulse output, as well as use as a gate input; it can also act as
a test point for triggering an oscilloscope from the transmit or receive
window.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 3

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

1.3 Theory of Operation

The PT878 is a transit-time ultrasonic flowmeter. When ultrasonic pulses
are transmitted through a moving liquid, the pulses that travel in the same
direction as the fluid flow (downstream) travel slightly faster than the pulses
that travel against the flow (upstream). The PT878 uses various digital
signal processing techniques, including cross-correlation, to determine
transit times and then uses the transit times to calculate flow velocity.

During operation, two transducers serve as both ultrasonic signal generators
and receivers. When mounted on a pipe, they are in acoustic communication
with each other, so that each transducer can receive ultrasonic signals
transmitted by the other transducer. Each transducer thus functions as a
transmitter generating a certain number of acoustic pulses, and as a receiver
for an identical number of pulses.

The flowmeter measures the time interval between transmission and
reception of the ultrasonic signals in both directions. When the liquid in the
pipe is not flowing, the transit-time downstream equals the transit-time
upstream. When the liquid is flowing, the transit-time downstream is less
than the transit-time upstream. The difference between the downstream and
upstream transit-times is proportional to the velocity of the flowing liquid,
and its sign indicates the direction of flow.

4 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

Before making measurements, you must prepare the PT878 for operation.
This includes the following procedures:

• Making Electrical Connections

• Charging and/or Replacing Batteries

• Powering On and Off

• Using the Screen and Keypad

• Obtaining On-Line Help

Figure 1 below shows the PT878 in its standard soft case (a) and in the
optional solid case (b). In the solid case, the interior is structured for optimal
protection of the PT878 and its accessories.

(a) (b)

Figure 1: The PT878 and Accessories

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 5

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.1 Making Electrical Connections

Before making measurements with the PT878, you must make all the
necessary connections to the unit. This section describes how to connect the
following:

• Power

• Transducers

• Input/Output

• Infrared Interface

Make all connections to the top of the PT878 unit as shown in Figure 2
below. Please note that you need to make the proper power and transducer
connections only. The other connections are required for particular
functions, but are not necessary for basic operation.

Note: For a listing of Input/Output connections, see Table 1 on page 8.

Transducer

Upstream

Infrared Transceiver

Downstream

Power

Input/Output

Figure 2: Connection Locations

6 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.1.1 Power Connections

The PT878 is powered by either a 100-120/200-260 VAC wall mount
plug-in module, or by 5 internal C

-size NiCad high-energy rechargeable

s

batteries or by a pack of 3.0 Ahr NiMH batteries. (An optional power
supplement, part #703-1283, uses 6 AA alkaline batteries.) When you
receive the PT878, the batteries are not charged; therefore, to make remote
measurements using the batteries, follow the instructions on page 9 to
charge the batteries. In either case, you must connect the power cord to the
appropriate terminal as shown in Figure 2 on page 6.

WARNING! To ensure the safe operation of the PT878, you must

install and operate it as described in this manual. In
addition, be sure to follow all applicable safety codes and
regulations for installing electrical equipment in your
area. The PT878 and its transducers are designed for use
only in general-purpose locations.

2.1.2 Transducer Connections

The transducer cables connect to the PT878 with LEMO® coaxial type
connectors. Each color-coded cable should have a collar labeled
UPSTREAM or DOWNSTREAM. Make transducer cable connections to
the top of the flowmeter as shown in Figure 2 on page 6. Because there are
various types of transducers and installations, transducer installation is
discussed separately in the Liquid Transducer Installation Guide (916-055).

2.1.3 Input/Output Connections

The PT878 provides one 0/4-20 mA current output and two 4 to 20-mA
analog inputs with switchable 16-V supply for loop- powered temperature
transmitters. It also supports digital, frequency, and totalizer outputs.

Connect the inputs/outputs using a LEMO
Figure 2 on page 6. The pin numbers for the connector and the color code
for the standard input/output cable are shown in Table 1 on page 8.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 7

®

multi-pin connector as in

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.1.3 Input/Output Connections (cont.)

Table 1: Cable Assembly for Analog Inputs/Outputs

Pin

Number

Wire

Color Description

1 Black Analog Out 1
2 Red 16 V (switched)
3 White Supply or Return Temperature (Input A)
4 Yellow Supply or Return Temperature (Input B)
5 Green Analog Ground
6 Orange Digital Output (frequency output, pulse totalizer,

diagnostic output or calibration gate)
7 Blue Digital Ground
8 Violet Receive Monitor

2.1.4 The Infrared Wireless Interface

The PT878 comes equipped with an internal infrared transceiver (shown in
Figure 2 on page 6) that enables communication between the meter and
other IR devices, particularly the IR ports or dongles (IR to RS232 adapters)

of Windows
They can also program the meter using the optional PanaView software
interface. The PT878 was designed for use with products that comply to the
IrDA protocol. For more information on establishing IR communications
between the PT878 and your PC, refer to Appendix F.

®

-based PCs. Users can send and receive site and log data.

Note: The dongle connection is RS232. The configuration options are either

RS232 or IRDa. Selecting the RS232 does not

link the meter to the

dongle. IrDa must be selected for the link to work.

• To transfer files between the PT878 and PC, see Managing Files — the

Drive Manager on page 102.

• To transfer a log from the PT878 to a PC, see page 144.

8 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.2 Caring for the PT878 Batteries

The PT878 comes with self-contained, built-in rechargeable batteries to
support portable operation. For optimum performance, these batteries
require a minimum of maintenance.

CAUTION! Use only GE-approved batteries and desktop chargers.

These chargers are designed to maximize battery life.
Using other batteries or chargers voids the warranty and
may cause damage.

IMPORTANT: For CE compliance, the PT878 is classified as a

battery-powered device, not to be used with the AC
adaptor.

2.2.1 Charging and Storing the Batteries

When you receive the PT878, you will need to initially charge the batteries.
Also, the battery may need recharging if it has not been used for a long
period of time. The batteries must be charged up to 8 hours to receive the
maximum charge. When fully charged, the batteries provide 8 to 10 hours
of continuous operation. An internal battery gauge indicates the remaining
power in the batteries.

To charge the batteries, simply plug the AC power module cord into the
power jack (shown in Figure 2 on page 6) and be sure the battery pack is
installed. When the PT878 is plugged into line voltage, the internal battery
charger automatically charges the batteries, whether the PT878 is on or off.
If the PT878 is on, the Battery icon in the upper right corner of the screen
indicates battery status (as shown in Table 2 on page 10).

Note: For version 1B of the PT878 software, you must also press the red

power key in the upper right corner of the keypad. (See page 110 to
determine your software version.)

For optimal run time, charge the batteries only in temperatures from 50°F to
104°F (10°C to 40°C). Otherwise, the batteries will not be properly charged
and will have a significantly reduced run time.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 9

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.2.1 Charging and Storing the Batteries (cont.)

Store the batteries at temperatures from –4°F to 131°F (–20°C to 55°C) for
periods of less than one month, or from 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) for
longer periods. (If you are transporting them for two days or less, the
batteries can withstand temperatures from –40°F to 158°F (–40°C to 70°C).

Table 2: Battery Status Icons

Icon Battery Status

Full battery
Partially full battery

Empty battery
Fully charged battery, connected to AC power

Charging battery
Discharging battery
Failure/missing battery
Notification to check battery form (see page 114)

2.2.2 Replacing the Batteries

CAUTION! Replace batteries only with the specified rechargeable

batteries. The battery charges when the unit is off. Do not
attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries.

If you need to replace the rechargeable batteries, use the recommended 3.0
Ahr NiMH batteries (part number 200-081). While the batteries can be
recharged up to 600 times, it is best to replace them when they no longer
provide acceptable performance. T o replace the batteries, remove the rubber
boot, open the panel located on the back of the PT878 unit, disconnect the
batteries, and replace with new ones (see Figure 3 on page 11).

10 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

2.2.2 Replacing the Batteries (cont.)

Battery Location

(behind panel)

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

Figure 3: Battery Location

To further extend the battery power on the PT878, the GE Part #705-1283
option uses 6 AA alkaline batteries.

2.2.3 Disposing of Batteries

CAUTION! Never dispose of the batteries by incineration. Do not

attempt to disassemble or short-circuit the batteries. For
safety. do not handle a damaged or leaking battery.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to dispose of your battery properly. In some areas,

battery disposal in business or household trash may be
prohibited. For safe disposal options, contact your nearest
GE-authorized service center.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 11

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.3 Powering ON and OFF

To operate the PT878, the power cord must be plugged into line voltage or
the battery must be charged as described previously.

IMPORTANT: For CE compliance, the PT878 is classified as a

battery-powered device, not to be used with the AC adapter.
To comply with CE certification, do not operate the meter
with the charger plugged in.

T o turn the PT878 on, press the red button in the upper-right-hand corner of
the keypad. Immediately upon power up the PT878 emits a short beep and
displays a “PCI Loader” message. It then validates the instrument
programming, and then displays the GE logo and the software version and
emits a long beep. If the meter fails any of these tests, contact the factory.

WARNING! If the meter fails the backup battery test, you must send

the unit back to the factory for a battery replacement.
Make sure you keep the batteries charged until you are
ready to ship the unit back to the factory. Before shipping,
print out all the log and site data, or transfer it to your PC.

12 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.3 Powering ON and OFF (cont.)

After the meter conducts all the self checks, the screen then appears similar
to the one shown in Figure 4 below.

ABC.SIT

Velocity, ft/s

0.00

Delta-T, ns

E0: No Errors

Figure 4: Screen After Powering ON

0.10

2000/11/30 09:53 AM

Signal, dB

32

Volume, l/s

0.0

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 13

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.3 Powering ON and OFF (cont.)

To turn the PT878 off, press the red key for 3 seconds. The screen now
appears similar to Figure 5 below.

Velocity, ft/s

SHUTDOWN: Meter OFF

Signal, dB

SLEEP: Meter Idle
CANCEL: Resume Operations

Delta-T, ns

Shutdown

Figure 5: Shutdown Menu

Three options are available:

Sleep

Volume, l/s

Resume

• Press [F1] to shut down the PT878, turning it completely off.

• Press [F2] to send the PT878 into sleep mode. In this mode, some of the

power supplies shut down, but the PT878 remains in a standby mode.
Users can resume taking measurements immediately by pressing the
power button.

• Press [F3] to cancel the command and return the PT878 to normal

operation.

If the PT878 locks up, you can reset it by holding the power key (the red key
in the upper right corner) for 15 seconds.

14 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.4 Using the Screen and Keypad

The essential features for operating the PT878 are the screen and keypad.
Although these features are common on portable instruments, the PT878
design offers particular features to simplify and speed operation.

2.4.1 Screen

The primary function of the screen is to display information in order for you
to accurately and easily take measurements. The PT878 screen consists of
seven parts (see Figure 6 below).

Current Site

Measurements

Error Messages

Figure 6: PT878 Screen in Operate Mode

(alternates with Menu Bar)

DEFAULT

Velocity, ft/s

0.00

Delta-T, ns

0.10

E0: No Errors

Status Bar

2000/11/30 09:53 AM

System Tray

Battery

Status

Signal, dB

32

Volume, l/s

0.0

Function Keys

The top line of the screen is the status bar, which normally displays the
time and date. However, when you press
Bar replaces the status line.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 15

[MENU] (the menu key), the Menu

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.4.1 Screen (cont).

The middle of the screen shown in Figure 6 on page 15 is the work area,
which displays the measured parameters, numeric measurements, and both
bar and line graphs. (When you enter a selection on the Menu Bar discussed
in Chapter 3, Programming Site Data, this area displays menu prompts.) A
line at the bottom of the area also displays error code messages, which are
described in more detail in Chapter 9, Diagnostics and Troubleshooting.

The system tray displays icons that indicate meter operations not otherwise
shown. Table 3 below lists the icons and their meanings.

Table 3: Icons in the System Tray

Icon Function Meaning

IR Transfer IR data transfer in progress.

Alert Indicates the meter encountered an

error in operation.

Log Indicates a log is pending (no marks)

or running (marks).

Heating/

cooling

Stopwatch Calibration Gate Operation: Watch is

Snapshot

(To file)

(To Printer)

Indicates heating or cooling energy
mode.

stopped when the gate is closed, or
runs when it is open.

Indicates that the Snapshot function
has been activated, so users can take
screen captures (see page 130).

The bottom of the screen displays the three function key options: F1, F2
and F3. These keys have different functions, depending on the task you are
performing.

16 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.4.2 Keypad

The PT878 keypad has 25 keys. The functions for each key are as follows
(see Figure 7 on page 18):

• 3 function keys ([F1], [F2], [F3]) — enable you to select the special

functions which appear at the bottom of the screen.

• 12 numeric keys (including – and .) — enable you to enter numeric data.

• 4 arrow keys ([W], [X], [S], [T]) — enable you to move through the

menu options.

• [?] Help key— enables you to access on-line help (discussed on

page 19).

• [MENU] Menu key — enables you to access the Main Menu.

• [ENTER] — enables you to enter a particular menu, and enters selected

values into the PT878 memory.

• [SEL] — enables you to move between data measurements on the screen.

• [ESC] — enables you to exit menus or me nu options at any time; cancels

a numeric entry.

• Red key [ ] — turns the power on or off, and toggles the backlight on

or off.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 17

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.4.2 Keypad (cont.)

PT878

?

MENU

F3

ESC

SEL

ENTER

F1

2

1
4

5
8

7

0

•

F2

3
6
9

–

Figure 7: PT878 Keypad

18 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.5 Obtaining On-Line Help

The PT878 offers context-sensitive on-line help screens that describe
various features. You can access on-line help at any time by pressing the [?]
key. The screen appears similar to Figure 8 below.

Help

Velocity, ft/s

Use the arrows and the enter key to

select from the links below. Press [F2]

to return to the TOC.

Site Menu
Program Menu
Meter Menu
Log Menu
Service Menu
Miscellaneous

About

Back TOC

Table of Contents

Signal, dB

Close

Figure 8: Main Help Menu

Use the three function keys and the [

S] and [T] arrow keys to navigate to

the desired menu, and press [ENTER]. Repeat this procedure to access the
desired topic within the menu. When you have finished using the Help
menu:

• Press [F1], Back, to move back one level.

• Press [F2], TOC, to return to the Table of Contents.

• Press [F3], Close, to return to the previous screen.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 19

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

[no content intended for this page — proceed to next page]

20 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

On the PT878, a Program Menu (part of the Main Menu) enables you to
enter information that is specific to each site:

• Transducer types and paths

• Pipe materials and linings

• Fluid types

• Heating or cooling energy flow rate

• Analog input and output parameters

• Digital output parameters

• User functions

• Correction factors

For immediate operation, the PT878 requires only transducer, pipe and fluid
data. However, additional information allows you to tailor measurements as
specifically as possible to your particular application. Once you have
entered this data, you can save it in files and recall these files for later use.
The PT878 can store up to 1 MB (or 32 site files) of data in the meter at any
one time. But through the infrared link, users can store an unlimited number
of sites in a PC, and then upload the sites they will actually use.

This chapter covers entering:

• Transducer, pipe, and fluid parameters

• Input/output and other setup parameters

• User functions.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 21

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.1 Entering the Program Menu

To enter the Program Menu, press the [MENU] key at the lower right of the
PT878 keypad. The Menu Bar replaces the Status Bar at the top of the
screen. Press the [
Program Menu. At the Program Menu, press
similar to Figure 9 below. While following the programming instructions,
see Figure 139 on page 222 of Appendix A, Me nu Ma ps .

X] arrow key once to scroll from the Site Menu to the

[ENTER]. The screen appears

Site Program Meter Logging Service

Transducer

Vel

ocity, ft/s

Pipe
Lining

Fluid

0.00

Path
Energy

Delta

-T, ns

Analog Input
Analog Output
Digital Output
User Functions

0.10

Co

Correction Factors

Signal, dB

32

Volume, l/s

0.0

E0: No Errors

Figure 9: Program Menu

To scroll to a particular option, press the [

T]or [S] arrow keys until you

reach the option. Then press [ENTER] to open the option window.
When entering parameters in an option, press:

• The [T] key to step through the available parameters

• The [S] key to scroll back to a previously entered parameter

• The [F2] key (Cancel) or the [ESC] key to exit an option at any time and

return to Operate Mode without changing the parameters.

Note: If you enter an incorrect numeric value, press the [W] key to erase

the last digit entered.

22 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2 Entering Transducer Parameters

To enter the Transducer option, scroll to the Transducer entry on the
Program Menu and press
below. To step through each parameter, press the [
Figure 143 on page 227 of Appendix A.

Note: Refer to the Liquid Transducer Installation Guide (916-055) for

additional information about transducers and configurations.

.

[ENTER]. The screen appears similar to Figure 10

T] key. Refer to

Transducer/Pipe

Transducer

Type: Wetted

Frequency

Pipe

Transducer

2.00

Wedge Ang
Wedge Tmp

Wedge SS

Cancel

Lining Path

Fluid

Clamp-on

Special

MHz

Tw

50
25

1219.2

°

°C

14

m/s

µs

OK

Figure 10: Transducer Option Window

1. Th e first prompt asks you to select whether you are using a wetted or a

clamp-on transducer.

a. Use the [W] and [X] keys to scroll between the two types.
b. Press [ENTER] to confirm the choice.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 23

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2 Entering Transducer Parameters (cont.)

Note: The choices made early in the Transducer and Pipe options

determine the prompts available later. If the PT878 does not scroll to
a particular parameter, it is not necessary for that transducer or pipe
type. For example, the Lining window is not available if you select a
wetted transducer.

2. The next prompt asks you to enter the transducer number (printed on

the transducer itself), or to specify that you are using a special
application transducer.

a. From the Type prompt, press the [T] key to reach the Transducer

prompt, and press

b. A drop-down list of transducer numbers opens as in Figure 11 on

page 25. (The list varies, depending on whether you have selected
wetted or clamp-on in the previous prompt. See Table 4 on page 25.)
Press the [

T] or [S] keys to scroll to the appropriate number, or

scroll to “Special” for a special application transducer. To speed
scrolling, you can press the [

W] key to scroll up by a page.

[

[ENTER].

X] key to scroll down by a page, or the

c. Press [ENTER] to confirm your selection.

The program now varies, depending on whether you have selected standard
or special transducers.

• If you have selected a standard wetted or clamp-on transducer, the

PT878 comes programmed with the needed parameters. Proceed to
Confirming Entries on page 30.

• However, if you have selected a special application transducer, go to

page 26.

24 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

Transducer

Transducer/Pipe

Pipe

SPECIAL

#40

Lining Path

Fluid

#41

Type: Wetted

Transducer

Frequency

2.00

#42
#43

Special

#44

MHz

#45

Clamp-on

Tw

14

µs

#46

Wedge Ang
Wedge Tmp
Wedge SS

#48
#49

Cancel

#47

50
25

1219.2

°C

m/s

OK

°

Figure 11: Transducer Numbers Drop-Down List

Table 4: Transducer Numbers Available

WETTED CLAMP-ON

SPECIAL 64 SPECIAL 23 (Shear) 113 (Shear) 307 (Shear)
40 52 65 1 (Rayleigh) 24 (Shear) 114 (Shear) 308 (Shear)
41 53 66 2 (Rayleigh) 25 (Shear) 115 (Shear) 309 (Shear)
42 54 67 3 (Rayleigh) 26 (Shear) 116 (Shear) 310 (Shear)
43 55 68 10 (Shear) 27 (Shear) 117 (Shear) 311 (Shear)
44 56 69 10 (Shear) 28 (Shear) 125 (Shear) 312 (Shear)
45 57 70 11 (Shear) 29 (Shear) 126 (Shear) 313 (Shear)
46 58 71 12 (Shear) 30 (Shear) 127 (Shear) 314 (Shear)
47 59 72 13 (Shear) 31 (Shear) 133 (Shear) 315 (Shear)
48 60 73 14 (Shear) 32 (Shear) 136 (Shear) 401 (Shear)
49 61 74 15 (Shear) 33 (Shear) 137 (Shear) 402 (Shear)
50 62 75 16 (Shear) 34 (Shear) 139 (Shear) 403 (Shear)
51 63 76 17 (Shear) 35 (Shear) 301 (Shear) 407 (Shear)

18 (Shear) 36 (Shear) 302 (Shear) 408 (Shear)
19 (Shear) 37 (Shear) 303 (Shear) 409 (Shear)
20 (Shear) 38 (Shear) 304 (Shear) 410 (Shear)
21 (Shear) 39 (Shear) 305 (Shear)
22 (Shear) 112 (Shear) 306 (Shear)

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 25

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2.1 Parameters for Special Transducers

Note: The factory will supply the information required below with the

transducers.

3. The prompt asks for the transducer frequency, to transmit a signal at a

frequency to which the transducer can respond.

a. From the Transducer prompt, press the [T] key to reach the

Frequency prompt, and press

b. A drop-down list of five frequencies opens, ranging from 0.50 to

4.00 MHz. Scroll to the desired frequency, and press

4. The next prompt asks for Tw, the time delay. This parameter is actually

the time the transducer signal spends travelling through the transducer
and cable. The PT878 calculates the flow rate from the upstream and
downstream transit times in the fluid, so the Tw (time delay) must be
subtracted out for an accurate measurement. The factory supplies the
time delay on a sheet of paper inside the transducer case.

a. From the Frequency prompt, press the [X] key to reach the Tw

prompt, and press

[ENTER].

[ENTER].

[ENTER].

b. Use the numeric keys to enter the GE-supplied time delay and press

[ENTER].

The program now varies, depending on whether you have selected a wetted
or a clamp-on transducer.

• If you have selected a special wetted transducer, proceed to

Confirming Entries on page 30.

• Special clamp-on transducers require three more inputs: wedge

angle, wedge temperature, and wedge soundspeed.

5. When calculating the flow rate, the PT878 must take into account the

wedge angle, the angle of the ultrasonic transmission.

a. From the Tw prompt, press the [T] key to reach the Wedge Angle

prompt, and press

b. Use the numeric keys to enter the factory-supplied wedge angle (in

degrees) and press

26 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

[ENTER].

[ENTER].

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2.1 Parameters for Special Transducers (cont.)

Note: If the error message in Figure 12 below, or one similar to Figure 13

on page 28 appears, the Pipe Soundspeed, Wedge Soundspeed,
and/or the Wedge Angle may be in error. Review the pipe and wedge
parameters currently entered and change one or more as necessary.

Note: To change pipe information, see Entering Pipe Parameters on

page 30.

Transducer/Pipe

* * * WARNING * * *

Critical Angle Exceeded!
Check Angles, Soundspeed!!!!!!!!

Cancel

OK

Figure 12: High Angle Error Message Window

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 27

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2.1 Parameters for Special Transducers (cont.)

Transducer/Pipe

Invalid Value — Too Low

15 is Too Low.
The valid range is from:

25.000 to 90.000 °

Cancel

OK

Figure 13: Low Angle Error Message Window

Note: When the corrected information is entered, a message similar to

Figure 14 appears. Press [F3] (OK).

28 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2.1 Parameters for Special Transducers (cont.)

Transducer/Pipe

* * * WARNING * * *

Transducer Spacing has changed!
New Spacing:

0.964 inches ( 24.493 mm)

Cancel

OK

Figure 14: Transducer Spacing Change Window

6. The PT878 must also take into account the wedge temperature.
a. From the Wedge Angle prompt, press the [T] key to reach the

Wedge Temperature prompt, and press

b. Use the numeric keys to enter the wedge temperature (in degrees F

or C) and press

7. Finally, the PT878 requires the wedge soundspeed.
a. From the Wedge Temp prompt, press the [T] key to reach the

Wedge SS prompt, and press

b. Use the numeric keys to enter the factory-supplied wedge

[ENTER].

[ENTER].

soundspeed (in ft/sec or m/sec) and press

[ENTER].

[ENTER].

Pressing the [T] key returns the meter to the Transducer tab at the top.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 29

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.2.2 Confirming Entries

• To confirm the entries and return to Operate mode, press [F3] (OK).

• To leave the window without confirming the entries, press [F2] (Cancel)

or the

[ESC] key.

In either case, the PT878 returns to Operate Mode.

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters

To enter the Pipe option, scroll to the Pipe entry on the Program Menu and

[ENTER]. (From the Transducer window , you can scroll back up to the

press
Transducer tab and press the [
press

[ENTER].) The screen appears similar to Figure 15 below. To step

through each parameter, press the [
of Appendix A, Menu Maps.

Note: Refer to the brochure Soundspeeds and Pi pe Size Data (9 14 -004 ) for

additional information about pipe sizes and soundspeeds.

X] arrow key to reach the Pipe window, and

T] key . Refer to Figure 139 on page 222

Transducer/Pipe

Transducer

Sound Speed

Pipe Fluid

Material

Lining

Other

600.3

Path

m/s

Measure Wall with TGauge

OD, mm

5

Nominal

OD x PI, mm

15.708

Schedule

Wall, mm

2

ANSI

Cancel

OK

Figure 15: Pipe Option Window

30 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters (cont.)

1. The first prompt asks you to select the pipe material.
a. Press [ENTER] to enter the material prompt.
b. A drop-down list of materials opens. Table 5 below lists the

available preprogrammed materials on the list. Press the [
keys to scroll to the appropriate material, or scroll to “Other” for a
material not on the list. You can press the [
a page, or the [

W] key to scroll up by a page.

Table 5: Preprogrammed Pipe Materials

Pipe Material

Category Specific Material

Al — Aluminum Rolled

Brass None

Cu — Copper Annealed or Rolled

CuNi — Copper/Nickel 70% Cu 30% Ni or 90% Cu 10% Ni

Glass Pyrex, Flint, or Crown

Gold Hard-drawn

Inconel None

Iron Armco, Ductile, Cast, Electrolytic
Monel None
Nickel None

Plastic

Nylon, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PVC
(CPVC), or Acrylic

Steel Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel

Tin Rolled

Titanium None

Tungsten Annealed, Carbide, Drawn

Zinc Rolled

Other* Any material

X] key to scroll down by

T] or [S]

c. Press [ENTER] to confirm the choice.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 31

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters (cont.)

d. If you have selected “Other,” the meter prompts you to enter the

soundspeed. Use the numeric keys to type the desired soundspeed in
the text box, and press

Note: If the “Other” Pipe soundspeed entered is too large, given the

previously entered Wedge soundspeed and angles, an error message
similar to Figure 16 below will appear. Press [F3] (OK) (the error
message disappears), and enter another soundspeed within the range
specified.

100000 is Too High

The valid range is from:

3330.052 to 24000.000 ft/s

[ENTER] to confirm the choice.

Transducer/Pipe

Invalid Value — Too High

Cancel

OK

Figure 16: Soundspeed Error Message Window

Note: When the corrected soundspeed is entered, a message similar to

Figure 17 on page 33 appears. Press [F3] (OK).to return to the Site
Menu.

32 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters (cont.)

Transducer/Pipe

* * * WARNING * * *

Transducer Spacing has changed!
New Spacing:

0.964 inches ( 24.493 mm)

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

Cancel

OK

Figure 17: Transducer Spacing Change Window

2. The next prompt asks if you wish to measure the pipe wall with the

internal thickness gauge. If you press

[ENTER], the program moves to

the T-Gauge Display option (as covered on page 159). When you have
completed setting up and using the thickness gauge (as discussed in
Chapter 8), press

3. For pipe diameter, two alternatives are available. At the Diameter

[F2] or [F3] to return to the Pipe tab.

prompt, the meter asks for the pipe outside diameter and thickness. But
if you have selected certain pipe materials (carbon or stainless steel,
cast iron, PVC and CPVC), you have the option of entering the pipe
dimensions by a standardized schedule. Once you enter the nominal
pipe size and identification, the PT878 determines the OD and wall
thickness from an internal table.

Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual 33

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.3 Entering Pipe Parameters (cont.)

If you select a material that uses the Diameter alternative:

a. You must select from two choices, outside diameter or

circumference.

• The prompt moves to the OD (outside diameter) text box. Type the

thickness (in mm or in.) into the text box, and press
confirm the choice, or

[ENTER] to

• Move the prompt to the OD X PI (circumference) text box. Type

the OD (in mm or in.) into the box, and press
your choice.

b. In either case, the next prompt asks for the wall thickness. Type the

value (in mm or in.) into the box, and press
choice.

Note: The measurement units shown depend on the choices you have made

in the English/Metric window or the Meter Settings menu.

[ENTER] to confirm

[ENTER] to confirm your

If you select a material that has the Schedule option:

a. The prompt as ks if you wish to apply ANSI (the ANSI schedule).

[ENTER] to select (or deselect) the ANSI box. (If you do not

Press
select the ANSI option, the prompt moves to the OD text box, and
you enter the parameters for the Diameter alternative as discussed
above.)

b. Press the [W] key twice to move the prompt to the Nominal pipe

size drop-down menu. Press
the desired pipe size, and press

c. Press the [X] key to move the prompt to the Schedule drop-down

menu. Press
schedule, and press

[ENTER] to open the menu. Scroll to the desired

[ENTER] to confirm the choice.

After entering either diameter or schedule settings, pressing the [

[ENTER] to open the menu. Scroll to

[ENTER] to confirm your choice.

S] key

returns the meter to the Pipe Material prompt.

34 Transport® Model PT878 Portable Liquid Flowmeter User’s Manual