Database & Configuration

Instrument configuration management is done through a combination of functions in the Cornerstone Database, HART Comm, and Conventional windows. Configuration records for conventional instruments are manually added to the database through a dialog box in the Conventional window. Base Station automates the creation of records for smart instruments by entering the device into the database upon its first connection to the Cornerstone system through the HART Comm window. This saves considerable labor and avoids the inaccuracies inherent in the manual entry of instrument records. It solves the problem of how to construct a database for currently installed smart instruments, while insuring that the information gathered really reflects the configuration of the unit in the field. On multi-dropped loops, Base Station can be used to poll all possible addresses to locate the installed devices on that loop.

The Data Base window provides for the display and off-line editing of individual database records for all HART, conventional, and switch instruments. Off-line editing allows the preparation of numerous record modifications, such as range changes, for an entire set of smart devices before actually connecting to them in the field. Upon each connection to an instrument, the current memory contents of the instrument are compared to the existing record in the database. You are alerted if differences are found, and you have the opportunity to choose which configuration to use.

	Click here to see how to use the Database window to make off-line edits to instrument parameters prior to an actual device connection
	Click here to see how Base Station's View Instrument display shows values currently stored in the instrument, off-line edited parameters (in the database record), and highlights differences

A set of dates is kept in each instrument database record that tracks major actions or events in the life of the device. These include: date first entered into the database, date of last configuration change, date of last multi-point test, date of last calibration, and date on which next calibration is due. Default generic record templates are present for instruments by device type, such as pressure, temperature or flow. In addition, for selected instruments, Cornerstone uses Model Specific Libraries (ModLibs) that define itemized records containing the definition of, and in the case of smart instruments, access to, all of the instrument specifications, device specific parameters and internal functions. For HART instruments, this is accomplished through the integration of the device specific portion of the command set. ModLibs enhance device specific support in the HART Comm and History windows.

Database Window Features

Instrument Database

	Integral instrument database holds records for industrial instruments, calibrators, and test equipment
	Stores instrument information including identity, usage, operation, key dates, and calibration procedures and parameters
	Instrument capacity is limited only by disk space
	Data fields are tailored to instrument type. Switch instruments have specialized database records.
	Instrument records include your calibration setup & wrapup advisory text blocks
	Define and assign instruments to your own customized "Groups"
	Define new instrument and equipment categories
	A special Tag Note feature lets you attach customized data files to instrument records using the document format and editor program of your choice (e.g. Excel, AutoCAD)

Database Management Functions

	Specify instruments by tag or ID, or select from a list based upon your search criteria - Type, Vendor, Model, Group, Description, etc.
	Add, Edit, Delete instruments
	Copy specifications of an existing instrument into a new instrument
	Import instrument configuration data in standard .CSV files
	Export configuration and test/cal history data in standard .CSV files
	Instrument record changes automatically generate history records with as found and as left data values. You specify service reason and service notes for database edits.

Click here to see how Base Station helps find instruments in your database using selection criteria you specify

Reporting Functions

	Individual or multiple instrument configuration reports
	Tabular Instrument database summary reports

HART Comm Window Features

Within Base Station, all connections with HART instruments take place through the HART Comm window. You select equipment to use to make the connection. This can be a single loop HART modem on a PC comm port, or you may select an on-line instrument system using HART multiplexers or other plant-wide interface systems.

Click here to see how to use the HART Comm window to access instrument configuration data and test functions

The HART Comm window takes care of the critical �housekeeping� functions associated with communications to HART instruments. Upon connection, the accessed instrument is validated against the established database record. If it is a new instrument, a database record is automatically created for it. For on-line instrument systems, a warning can be posted to remind your technician to make sure the related control loop is set to manual operation. EEPROM control commands are sent to instruments that require them to store new configuration data. The HART write protection feature is honored by Base Station. The HART Comm window detects the presence of off-line edits to your instrument database record, and offers you the opportunity to send them to the instrument. It also checks for �external� edits to the instrument memory (e.g. from a hand-held communicator) and offers you choices for handling this situation, including restoring the instrument to a configuration previously recorded in the Cornerstone database. These functions operate to meet the Base Station goal of ensuring that the as-left instrument memory at disconnect and the current database record for that instrument match exactly. In the background, Base Station automatically creates the necessary history records to document all instrument modifications and test/calibration activities.

For most HART instruments, the HART Comm window includes the following functions:

	Configure ID information
	Configure output
	Configure burst mode
	Configure HART variables
	Configure specific instrument type parameters
	Configure to look like another instruments
	Configure reset (to factory)
	Instrument test information
	Zero & span test
	Zero & span calibrate
	Input test
	Input zero trim
	Output set to fixed value
	Output test
	Output trim
	Instrument calibration status
	Instrument self test
	Instrument monitor graphical
	Instrument monitor numerical
	Instrument view recall as-found configuration data
	Edit service note
	Edit tag note

If available and installed, a Model Support Library (ModLib) software module seamlessly provides the additional instrument specific configuration data access and other type specific functions available in the connected instrument.

applied system technologies, inc.
p.o. box 309
dunnellon, florida, U.S.A. 34430

� Copyright 2000-2005 Applied System Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.
Cornerstone and the Cornerstone logo are trademarks of Applied System Technologies, Inc.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
This site was last updated on 17 May 2005.