RDS User Manual V4.0.0.086 PDF

Presentation - Installation
RDS Service
User Manual
www.hexagonmetrology.com
Hexagon Metrology Division ROMER

Z.A. des Bois Blanche.
F- 41800 MONTOIRE-sur-le Loir France.
Tel : +33.2.54.86.40.40
romerfr.service@hexagonmetrology.com
Hexagon Metrology Inc.

3536 Seagate Way
OCEANSIDE, California 96056 U.S.A.
Tel : +1 760-994-1401
techsupport@romer.com
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 1

A
INTRODUCTION
Dear customer, thank you for purchasing a HEXAGON METROLOGY product. Before starting any
operation about your new HEXAGON METROLOGY® 3D measuring arm, please read carefully
those instructions.
You will find here a guide to use RDS for Romer Absolute arms and Multi Gage in best conditions.
For any other device or option, not described in this manual, please refer to the different complete
manuals (Arm Manual, Software manual, options …) available on the Romer web site or on the
installation disk.
For any further question, please contact your local Hexagon Metrology agent.
 TRADEMARK NOTE
Romer® is a registered trademark of HEXAGON AB in the United States and selected other
countries.
ROMER ABSOLUTE ARM™ is a trademark of HEXAGON AB.
 IMPORTANT NOTE
All information contained in this document is subjected to be modified without any notification and
do not represent any engagement from HEXAGON AB. The software described in this manual is
furnished under licence agreement and must be used only in conformity with the terms of this
licence. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted under any form or by any way,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopy or recording, for any purpose without Hexagon AB
formal authorisation.
 DISCLAIMER NOTE
All non-authorised modification, repair or bad use of the Hexagon Metrology system will
automatically void the original manufacturer’s guaranty. The manufacturer is not responsible for
damages to the software or hardware caused by unauthorised handling, or use, of this material.
For information regarding the warranty, repair, technical assistance, last updates and current
information prices, please contact your local Hexagon Metrology agent.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 2

Conventions Used in this Guide A

This manual uses the following conventions to alert you to information that varies from optional to
critical in nature. These guidelines are used to distinguish the difference between these passages:
DANGER
A Danger indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury
WARNING
A Warning indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
CAUTION
A Caution, used with the safety alert symbol, indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury
NOTICE
A Notice is used to indicate useful, but not critical note about the operation of your HEXAGON
METROLOGY system or its sub-parts. Information contained in a Note is not safety related.
Failing to heed this advice may result in damage to your HEXAGON METROLOGY system or in
wrong measurements.
Information indicates an advice, or link to another documentation.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 3

Symbols
A
Symbol Location Description
Manual Item for all users
Manual Item only for Level 2 Technicians
Manual General danger
Read the manual before use
Manual Electric risk
Manual Chemical risk
Manual Pinch Risk
Manual Cutting Risk
Manual Laser risk
Manual Feature is standard

/
Correct operation
Opt. Manual Feature is optional
Manual Feature is not available

/
Incorrect operation
Back Panel For ROMER Absolute Arm specific USB cable only
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 4

A
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE
The following directions should enable the person responsible for the product, and the person who
actually uses the equipment, to anticipate and avoid operational hazards.
The person responsible for the product must ensure that all users understand these directions and
adhere to them.
The user of the Hexagon Metrology 3D measuring arm must read carefully all full safety notes
regarding mechanical and electrical safety, battery, correct use of the device and all other safety
information before unpacking the system.
WARNING
Adverse use can lead to injury, malfunction and damage. It is the task of the person responsible
for the equipment to inform the user about hazards and how to counteract the. The product is not
to be operated until the user has been instructed on how to work with it.
 Responsibilities
Manufacturer of the product

Hexagon Metrology Division ROMER, F-41800 Montoire-sur-le Loir, hereinafter referred to as
ROMER, is responsible for supplying the product, including the user manual and original
accessories, in a complete and safe condition.
Manufacturer of non-HEXAGON METROLOGY accessories

The manufacturer of non-Hexagon Metrology accessories for the product are responsible for
developing, implementing and communicating safety concepts for their products, and are also
responsible for the effectiveness or those safety concepts in combination with the HEXAGON
METROLOGY product.
Person in charge of the product

The person in charge of the product has the following duties:
- To understand the safety instructions on the product and the instructions in the user manual.
- To be familiar with local regulations relating to safety and accident prevention.
- To inform HEXAGON METROLOGY immediately if the product and the application becomes
unsafe.
- To ensure that the national laws, regulations and conditions for the operation of radio transmitters
are respected.
WARNING
The person responsible for the product must ensure that it is used in accordance with the
instructions. This person is also accountable for the training and the deployment of personnel
who use the product and for the safety of the equipment in use.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 5

Contents A
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 2
Conventions Used in this Guide ...................................................................................................... 3
Symbols ............................................................................................................................................. 4
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE............................................................................................................. 5
Contents ............................................................................................................................................. 6
A. Presentation - Installation ...................................................................................................... 10
A.1 What is RDS .............................................................................................................................. 10
A.2 RDS Levels and securities ........................................................................................................ 10
A.3 System Requirements ............................................................................................................... 11
A.4 Compatibilities ........................................................................................................................... 12
A.5 SMART Data Exchange ............................................................................................................ 14
A.5.1 What is SMART ............................................................................................................ 14
A.5.2 What type of information does Hexagon Metrology collect? ........................................ 14
A.5.3 How does Hexagon Metrology use collected information? .......................................... 15
A.5.4 Privacy protection ......................................................................................................... 15
A.5.5 Deactivation .................................................................................................................. 15
A.5.6 Further information ....................................................................................................... 15
A.6 Installation ................................................................................................................................. 16
A.7 Quick Reference ........................................................................................................................ 19
B. RDS Control Panel .................................................................................................................. 20
B.1 Summary ................................................................................................................................... 22
B.2 Connection ................................................................................................................................ 23
B.2.1 USB connection to the arm ........................................................................................... 24
B.2.2 Wi-Fi Settings ............................................................................................................... 25
B.2.3 Computer setup for Wi-Fi connection to a ROMER arm .............................................. 28
B.2.4 Wireless connection to the arm .................................................................................... 30
B.2.5 RSx wireless connection .............................................................................................. 32
B.2.6 Infinite / Stinger advanced settings............................................................................... 32
B.3 General parameters .................................................................................................................. 33
B.3.1 Volume.......................................................................................................................... 33
B.3.2 Language ...................................................................................................................... 34
B.3.3 Head light (for equipped arms) ..................................................................................... 35
B.4 SMART ...................................................................................................................................... 36
B.5 Profile ........................................................................................................................................ 37
B.6 Probe ......................................................................................................................................... 38
B.6.1 Current Probe ............................................................................................................... 38
B.6.2 Calibrate ....................................................................................................................... 38
B.6.3 Check ............................................................................................................................ 38
B.6.4 Probe list and selection ................................................................................................ 39
B.6.5 Action buttons ............................................................................................................... 39
B.6.6 View Action button ........................................................................................................ 40
B.6.7 Adding a new probe ...................................................................................................... 42
B.6.8 Non-repeatable probes ................................................................................................. 43
B.7 Scanner ..................................................................................................................................... 45
B.7.1 Common items.............................................................................................................. 46
B.7.2 Sampling filter (HP-L20.8 / CMS108 / RS3) ................................................................. 47
B.7.3 Exposure (RSx) ............................................................................................................ 48
B.7.4 Scanning modes (HP-L-20.8 / CMS108) ...................................................................... 51
B.7.5 Gain – Quality filter (HP-L-20.8 / CMS108) .................................................................. 52
B.8 Auxiliary Referencing ................................................................................................................ 53
B.8.1 Reminder: Theory about moving a measurement device............................................. 54
B.8.2 Description of the Reference Tab ................................................................................. 55
B.8.3 Leap Frog in RDS ......................................................................................................... 57
B.8.4 GridLOK / SpaceLOK ................................................................................................... 58
B.9 Advanced settings ..................................................................................................................... 61
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 6

B.10 Video capture (for equipped arms) ............................................................................................ 63

B.11 Access Control .......................................................................................................................... 66
B.11.1 How to … modify the protection of a function ............................................................... 66
A
B.11.2 List of available protections .......................................................................................... 66
B.12 Features .................................................................................................................................... 67
B.12.1 Interface ........................................................................................................................ 67
B.12.2 How to add a new feature: ............................................................................................ 68
B.12.3 Types of feature ............................................................................................................ 69
B.13 About ......................................................................................................................................... 70
C. RDS Toolbox ............................................................................................................................ 71
C.1 Presentation .............................................................................................................................. 71
C.2 RDS Toolbox description ........................................................................................................... 73
C.2.1 Main panel description .................................................................................................. 73
C.2.2 Menus navigation.......................................................................................................... 74
C.2.3 RDS Toolbox notifications ............................................................................................ 76
C.2.4 Local and Distant arms ................................................................................................. 78
C.2.5 Maintenance Connection .............................................................................................. 78
C.3 Panels common features ........................................................................................................... 79
C.3.1 Status of the connection ............................................................................................... 79
C.3.2 Arm selection ................................................................................................................ 80
C.3.3 Spreadsheets management – Search (Ctrl+F) ............................................................ 81
D. RDS Toolbox Information tiles ............................................................................................... 83
D.1 News & links publications .......................................................................................................... 83
D.2 Arm status ................................................................................................................................. 85
D.2.1 Standard information .................................................................................................... 86
D.2.2 Arm properties (deploy) ................................................................................................ 88
E. RDS Toolbox Vault – secured area ........................................................................................ 89
E.1 Vault screen description ............................................................................................................ 90
E.2 Types of packages .................................................................................................................... 92
E.3 Status and information of a package ......................................................................................... 94
E.3.1 Action status ................................................................................................................. 94
E.3.2 Information of the package ........................................................................................... 95
E.4 Create and synchronize a Package .......................................................................................... 96
E.4.1 Manual backup ............................................................................................................. 96
E.4.2 Other automatic packages ............................................................................................ 97
E.4.3 Comment ...................................................................................................................... 97
E.4.4 Synchronization ............................................................................................................ 98
E.5 Download a Package from HEXAGON SERVER ..................................................................... 99
E.5.1 Listed Arms - refresh .................................................................................................... 99
E.5.2 Download a package .................................................................................................. 100
E.6 Use a Package ........................................................................................................................ 101
E.6.1 Display the information – get the package ................................................................. 102
E.6.2 Restore the Armdata .................................................................................................. 103
E.6.3 Analyse a diagnose package (Technician profile only) .............................................. 104
E.7 Remove a package / an arm ................................................................................................... 105
E.8 SMART Dataset manual Upload ............................................................................................. 106
E.8.1 Manual upload of SMART Dataset ............................................................................. 106
E.8.2 Dump SMART Dataset ............................................................................................... 106
E.8.3 Open a SMART Dataset ............................................................................................. 107
E.9 Quick vault guide ..................................................................................................................... 108
E.9.1 How to … find a package ........................................................................................... 108
E.9.2 How to … get a package file ....................................................................................... 109
E.9.3 How to … save the Armdata ....................................................................................... 110
E.9.4 How to … restore the Armdata ................................................................................... 111
F. SMART .................................................................................................................................... 112
F.1 Presentation ............................................................................................................................ 112
F.2 Communication with the Hexagon Server ............................................................................... 113
F.3 Arm selection: 2 possibilities ................................................................................................... 113
F.3.1 Local arm - Standard mode ........................................................................................ 113
F.3.2 Local and Distant arm - Database mode .................................................................... 114
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 7
F.4 SMART Overview panel .......................................................................................................... 115

F.4.1 SMART components graphic view ............................................................................. 116
F.4.2 SMART Overview components description ................................................................ 117
A
F.5 Alerts ....................................................................................................................................... 118
F.5.1 Alert notifications ........................................................................................................ 119
F.5.2 SMART Alerts panel ................................................................................................... 120
F.5.3 Alert details ................................................................................................................. 121
F.6 Analyze Indicators ................................................................................................................... 122
F.6.1 Description of the panel .............................................................................................. 123
F.6.2 Use a template............................................................................................................ 124
F.6.3 Select an indicator ...................................................................................................... 125
F.6.4 Details of an indicator ................................................................................................. 126
F.6.5 Type of charts ............................................................................................................. 128
F.6.6 Period time (counters only) ......................................................................................... 129
F.6.7 Add an indicator on a chart ......................................................................................... 130
F.6.8 Display a graph – details ............................................................................................ 131
F.6.9 Export the values ........................................................................................................ 135
F.7 Quick SMART guide ................................................................................................................ 136
F.7.1 Quick display: Use a template .................................................................................... 136
F.7.2 How to add an indicator diagram on a graph ............................................................. 137
G. RDS Toolbox Maintenance ................................................................................................... 138
G.1 Program a probe...................................................................................................................... 139
G.1.1 Probe details ............................................................................................................... 140
G.1.2 Find a probe................................................................................................................ 141
G.1.3 How to … program a probe ........................................................................................ 142
G.2 Encoder analysis ..................................................................................................................... 143
G.2.1 Encoder analysis (customer) ...................................................................................... 144
G.2.2 Process ....................................................................................................................... 145
G.3 Configure Wi-Fi Chipset .......................................................................................................... 147
G.3.1 Process ....................................................................................................................... 148
G.4 Upgrade of Integrated scanner (option) .................................................................................. 149
G.4.1 How to get a Feature Code for RSx Upgrade ........................................................... 150
G.4.2 How to upgrade the firmware of the integrated scanner. ........................................... 151
G.5 Upgrade of arm firmware ......................................................................................................... 152
G.5.1 Check the versions of the electronic boards .............................................................. 152
G.5.2 Upgrade the firmware ................................................................................................. 153
G.6 View logs ................................................................................................................................. 154
H. RDS Scanning Window ......................................................................................................... 155
H.1 Description............................................................................................................................... 156
H.2 Minimum / Extended Window .................................................................................................. 157
H.3 Laser Power ............................................................................................................................ 157
I. RDS Extended features ......................................................................................................... 158
I.1 RDS Icons ............................................................................................................................... 158
I.2 RDS Menu ............................................................................................................................... 159
J. RDS Quick Measure .............................................................................................................. 161
J.1 How to do a quick measure ..................................................................................................... 162
J.1.1 Description of the measurement window ................................................................... 162
J.1.2 Measurement procedure ............................................................................................ 163
J.2 Available features .................................................................................................................... 164
J.2.1 Dimensions ................................................................................................................. 164
J.2.2 Distances .................................................................................................................... 164
J.2.3 Angles ......................................................................................................................... 165
K. Appendix ................................................................................................................................ 166
K.1 Custom Path installation .......................................................................................................... 166
K.2 Registry ................................................................................................................................... 167
K.3 Firewalls .................................................................................................................................. 168
K.4 Connected Software ................................................................................................................ 169
K.4.1 RDS Data Collector .................................................................................................... 170
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 8

K.4.2 Romosoft .................................................................................................................... 170

K.4.3 Docs ............................................................................................................................ 171
K.4.4 PcDmis ....................................................................................................................... 171
A
K.4.5 PowerInspect .............................................................................................................. 171
K.4.6 Metrolog / µLog ........................................................................................................... 171
K.4.7 Polyworks ................................................................................................................... 172
K.4.8 Reshaper .................................................................................................................... 173
K.4.9 ScanWorks ................................................................................................................. 173
K.4.10 Quindos ...................................................................................................................... 173
K.4.11 Geomagic ................................................................................................................... 173
K.4.12 Verisurf ....................................................................................................................... 174
K.4.13 Aberlink ....................................................................................................................... 177
K.4.14 Spatial Analyzer .......................................................................................................... 178
K.4.15 Calypso ....................................................................................................................... 179
K.4.16 PowerSHAPE ............................................................................................................. 181
K.5 Computer Wi-Fi settings .......................................................................................................... 182
K.6 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................... 183
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 9

A. PRESENTATION - INSTALLATION A
A.1 What is RDS
RDS is the Hexagon Metrology Server for Windows which manages the Hexagon Metrology Arms
and Multi Gages.
It is the interface between the Arms (Romer and Cimcore arms, Romer and Tesa Multi Gages) and
all the measurement software.
RDS is requires to operate the Romer Absolute Arm, Cimcore CA7 arm and Multi Gages.
RDS is as well compatible with Infinite, Infinite II and Stinger arms for contact probes and Non-
Contact tube probes in USB only.
This server contains the drivers and also contains utilities. The main components of RDS are:
Component Description
RDS Toolbox Main panel and maintenance software for calibration data
synchronization to database, and arm diagnosis
RDS Service The driver.

itself
RDS Control User’s interface to setup the arm.

Panel
RDS Data Utility software for calibrations, verifications and accuracy diagnostics.
Collector
RDS Quick Utility to quickly measure basic dimensions.

Measure
RDS Arm Aid Setup software for boards programing
In this manual are described RDS service, RDS Toolbox (Level1), RDS Control Panel, RDS Arm
aid and RDS Quick Measure.
RDS Data collector is explained in “RDS Data Collector Manual”
RDS Level 2 is explained in “RDS Engineer Manual” (calibration profile only)
A.2 RDS Levels and securities

There are different levels of installations:
- Standard installation (End-User): standard installation for end-user profile (Level1).
- Calibration installation: only for calibration profile (Level2).
Some functions are protected by an option code (see §) or by a password (see §B.10 Access
Control).
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 10

A.3 System Requirements A

The following information presents the computer minimum required specifications depending on
the final application.
Always ensure that the application software you are using is not requiring higher specifications.
Probing with
Probing Tubing Scanning
CAD
Processor 2 GHz 2 GHz 2 GHz 2 GHz Quadri core
: DualCore : Octo
RAM 2 GB 4 GB mini 2 GB 16 GB mini
: 16 GB : 32 GB
Disk space 30 GB 30 GB 30 GB 60 GB
Ports 2 x USB Port 2 x USB Port 2 x USB Port 2x USB 3.0 Port
1 x LAN Port
Gigabit (on-board)
Graphic 512MB 512MB 512MB 1 GB
card (SVGA graphics (SVGA graphics (SVGA graphics (SVGA graphics
card capable of card capable of card capable of card capable of
OpenGL OpenGL OpenGL OpenGL
representation) representation) representation) representation)
: NVIDIA : NVIDIA :NVIDIA Quadro
Video RAM 1 GB 2 GB
Screen 1800x1024
® ® ® ® ® ® ® ®
Operating Win7 or Win8.1 Win7 or Win8.1 Win7 or Win8.1 Win7 or Win8.1
System Pro-32-bits Pro-64-bits Pro-32-bits Pro 64-bits
Wi-Fi card Any card Any card Any card RSx/FP3 : ONLY
supporting supporting supporting Netgear USB-Wi-
IEEE802.11b/g/n IEEE802.11b/g/n IEEE802.11b/g/n Fi provided with
Ad-hoc only Ad-hoc only Ad-hoc only FP3
USB cable 3 or 5 m
length
.NET 3.5 for W8
Internet For SMART data exchange, an internet connection must be available, and firewall
connection allows the connection to RDS Toolbox.
: Recommended for higher performnces
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 11

A.4 Compatibilities A
RDS 4.0.0 supports the following operating systems and devices:
 Operating systems
Windows
Windows Xp® Windows7® Windows8.1®
Vista®
32bits
64bits
“Family”
“Pro”
“Ultimate”
 Measuring devices
Connection Probing & Scanning

Tubing
USB Wi-Fi TTP Wired Wireless
Romer
Absolute
Arm
Cimcore
CA7
Multi
Gage
Infinite II
Infinite I
Stinger
Sigma /
Omega
Flex
System6 /
R100 /
Armony /
IT5
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 12

 Measurement software compatibilities
Contact Tube
A
Min V° RSx CMS108/20.8 Perceptron Kreon
& TTP Probe
Pc-Dmis 2011MR1
Pc-Dmis 1.0.0
Touch
Reshaper 6.3
Romosoft 2.05
Docs 3.0
SA 2011
Quindos 7
PolyWorks 12.0.7
PowerInspect 2012
Verisurf X5
: Implemented by the software, but not tested and validated by Hexagon Metrology
Contact Tube
Min V° RSx CMS108/20.8 Perceptron Kreon
& TTP Probe
Metrolog 13
Geomagic
Rapidform
Aberlink 30.30
Calypso
Arcocad
MCosmos
Reverse
Engineering
DezignWorks
Tezet
Calypso 5.2.16
TubeExpert
BuildIT
Metromec
Point2CAD
MetroSoft
Rhino
SurferNT
TopSolid
Polygonia
Inca3D
Inspect 3D
PowerShape
: Implemented by the software, but not tested and validated by Hexagon Metrology
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 13

A.5 SMART Data Exchange A

A.5.1 What is SMART
RDS software includes a new monitoring system for Hexagon Metrology Arms named SMART. By
collecting various indicators from the Arm and the computer, this system will help anticipating
failures and loss of performances. The strength of this feature is based on the consolidation by
Hexagon Metrology and the process of information coming from all Hexagon Metrology Arms.
Thanks to this centralized knowledge, thresholds are adjusted in order to improve the detection of
potential failures and loss of performances.
We also included in this version a feature allowing diffusion of news from Hexagon Metrology. This
information is related to your system settings (the type of Arm, the operating system used,
accessories used...).
NOTICE
SMART main purpose is to prevent from any breakdown or issue. Thus it is important to let RDS
Toolbox communicate the data to the Hexagon Server.
A.5.2 What type of information does Hexagon Metrology collect?
RDS software gathers and store into the host computer on periodic basis information below:
Standard computer Operating system version, CPU, RAM size, Hard disk, Graphical
information card, Network adapters, Version of RDS installed and your regional
and language settings.
This information is generally not personally identifiable and is similar to the information your
browser sends to each website you visit.
Configuration of your Arm Identifiers, Firmware versions, some properties coming from Arm
Specs as its type and its measuring volume.
Various indicators allowing detecting potential failures and loses of performance. There
are ordered into different categories:
General statistics How many times arm did a full power on/off cycle, Total time in
power-on state, How long the arm has been connected to RDS,
Temperature measured in the base, 3D distance travelled by the
probe
Encoders information as Temperatures, Working status, Count of errors and
warnings, Voltage
Accuracy time past since the last calibration, time past since the last probe
calibration, result of last quick check and probe calibration
USB/Wi-Fi communication information as How long the arm has been connected using USB or
Wi-Fi, Count of communication warnings or errors
Battery How many times the battery charger started, Time this battery has
been used, Health of the battery, Current charge level
Scanner Time spent scanning, How long laser was on, How many stripes
have been dropped while scanning
Wrist components information as Time spent using the integrated camera and Head
light, How many times each button has been actuated
Environment measurements retrieved by SMART modules
RDS Count of RDSToolBox, RDSDataCollector and RDSControlPanel
activations
Hexagon Metrology doesn't collect or process any personal data or any information which could be
used to identify any individual. It certainly will not contain any personal or contact information about
you (such as your name, address, or phone number).
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 14
A.5.3 How does Hexagon Metrology use collected information?

A
Collected information will be used by Hexagon Metrology in different ways:
Firstly, all collected information will be used to tune the thresholds allowing the detection of
potential failures and loses of performances. Adjusted thresholds are regularly sent to the field.
If potential problems are detected, one of our affiliate or subsidiary (i.e. service centres) may
contact your company in order to help you avoiding a complete breakdown of your system.
Hexagon Metrology will provide those companies only the information they need to deliver the
service. They are required to maintain the confidentiality of this information and are prohibited from
using it for any other purpose.
Collected information is also used to purpose you interesting news from Hexagon Metrology. This
news is related to your system settings (Arm type, accessories mounted on the Arm, operating
system language...). News is never sent to a specific customer but to a group or all of them.
Statistic reports will be generated. They will be used by Hexagon Metrology only to know how our
products are used. It could lead to improvements of existing products and design of new ones.
A.5.4 Privacy protection

Hexagon Metrology is committed to protect your privacy. Hence, we are not collecting or
processing any personal data or information. This user information statement explains how
Hexagon Metrology uses and protects the data and information we collect.
We may disclose collected information to affiliate partners (i.e. service centres) when we judge
necessary to inform you about a possible failure or the need of maintenance services on our
behalf.
We do not rent, sell or otherwise disclose collected information with unaffiliated third parties.
Hexagon Metrology has implemented reasonable physical, technical and administrative security
standards to protect collect information from loss, misuse, alteration or destruction.
Our service providers and agents are contractually bound to maintain the confidentiality of collected
information and may not use the information for any unauthorized purpose.
A.5.5 Deactivation
By default, the possibility to collect the above mentioned information is enabled. You are entitled
and able to disable this function at any time.
To disable this function and discontinue your participation as well as to enable, or to select
participation at a later stage, please refer to chapter B.4 SMART.
NOTICE
Disabling transmission of SMART data to Hexagon Metrology is not advised. If you do this, it will
make difficult diagnosing potential problems with your equipment. This could increase machine
downtime.
A.5.6 Further information

Further information regarding the SMART system can be found in RDS Control Panel, in the
SMART tab.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 15

A.6 Installation A
It is recommended to proceed Windows Update before the installation of RDS, to
ensure the all the necessary components are installed.
1. Insert the RDS disk (arm or RDS) into the disk drive
2. Installation starts automatically. If the installation does not start automatically, execute “NCA7-
1-19986-###### RDS Installer V#.#.#.exe " located on the RDS folder or from downloaded file.
Depending on the computer security settings (User Account Control), a confirmation

may be asked: press “Yes”.
3. The following window appears. Click on {next}.
4. Click on the button to read the User information and Click on {next}
The User information is displayed in the Web browser.
5. Click on {next}
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 16

®
6. If Windows firewall requires an authorization for RDS Toolbox, choose the appropriate
network (private network / public network) according to the needs and validate. A
RDS Toolbox requires the authorization to communicate with the networks to access
the Hexagon Server.
Ensure that RDS Toolbox is registered for Windows firewall or any other firewall to
access internet through the network.
NOTICE
Disabling transmission of SMART data to Hexagon Metrology is not advised. If you do this, it will
make difficult diagnosing potential problems with your equipment. This could increase machine
downtime.
7. At the end of the installation, press OK
8. If Windows asks for computer restart, press “OK”.
NB: No arm data files are necessary to load on the computer.
When updating to a newer version, RDS must first be uninstalled, to be able to install
the new version: during the update installation, click on YES to uninstall the previous
version, before processing to the new installation.
All settings, configuration and options are preserved.
It is recommended to disable any firewall as it may prevent RDS from functioning

properly.
Depending on the version of Windows ®, it may be necessary to confirm some

message boxes or allow some installation such as Jungo driver installation, dotnetfx,
netfx, Sentinel driver…
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 17

Windows .NET Framework 3.5 needs to be activated. If not, RDS installation will try to
install it or prompt to activate it: Access Windows control panel > group “Programs” >
“Turn Windows features on or off”.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 18

A.7 Quick Reference A

Topic How to? Page
Use the Find with keyword Ctrl + F
manual Jump to a link Click on it
Go back Alt + ←
Install RDS 16
Setup the measurement software for RDS 169
Connection Setup a USB connection 24
Setup a Wi-Fi connection 32
Configure the Wi-Fi chipset 147
Probe Program a probe 142
Calibrate a probe 38
159
Delete a probe 39
Modify a probe 41
Reference Move the arm by a leap-frog 57

Activate a GridLok 58
Various Change the sound volume 33
settings
Modify the mouse settings 61
Switch on/off the wrist camera 63
Configure the wrist camera 63
Switch on/off the wrist headlight 35
Activate the Haptic feedback 61
Scanner Configure a Hexagon scanner 45
Upgrade the scanner 147
Quick Proceed a quick measurement 161

Measure
Backup / Backup the arm data 108
Restore
Restore the Arm data 111
Arm Status Survey the arm indicators 122
Show the status of the current arm 115 / 85 / 22
Show the status of a not connected arm 114
Options Ask / Add a feature code 68
Vault Get the packages of an arm 99
Send a package by E-Mail 109
Maintenance Record a signal analysis 143
Alerts Hide the notifications 119 / 76
Analyze an alert 118
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RDS Control Panel
B. RDS CONTROL PANEL B

RDS control panel is the interface to manage the arm settings.
To access it, use “start menu > Programs > RDS > RDS control Panel”
Fig. 1 : RDS Control Panel start Menu Windows7® / Windows8®
Or do a right click on the RDS icon and select “RDS Control Panel”.
RDS Control Panel is divided in several tabs:
Summary shows the status of the arm
Connection used to setup the connection with the arm
General parameters Language and volume
SMART Privacy statement and activation of SMART functionalities
Profile used to activate and manage RDS profiles
Probe Shows current probe settings, and probes parameters
Reference Allows moving the device keeping the position.
Scanner available when a Hexagon scanner is connected

Advanced settings
Access control gives access to secured options (password)
Features To enable options
Video capture
About
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RDS Control Panel
Any modification of the settings needs to be saved : click on

B
The displayed tabs depend on the connected device: some tabs won’t be displayed
when using a Multi Gage.
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RDS Control Panel
B.1 Summary B
This page shows main information about the connected device:
Information Description
ARM
Arm Type Type of system (NCA) connection
Sub Type Type of NCA (Multi Gage/RA7)
Hardware version Version of arm
Firmware version Version of electronic program in the arm
Armspecs date time Date and time of last arm calibration
CURRENT PROBE
Name Name of the probe (see §C.4.1)
Type Contact, trigger, scanner, or NC-Tube probe
Diameter Ball probe diameter
ARM STATUS
Arm Status Information about connection and status
Battery Level In % of full level
External Temperature Temperature measured by the arm (see arm manual for sensor
location)
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RDS Control Panel
B.2 Connection B
This tab is used to select the type of arm and type of connection.
2 types of arm:
- RA7/CA7/MG : Romer Absolute Arm, Cimcore Arm, Multi Gage
- Infinite/Stinger : legacy Romer/Cimcore arms
2 types of connections can be used :

- USB (no parameters)
- Wi-Fi : shows Wi-Fi connection options
- Please refer to the arm manual (Romer Absolute arm manual / Cimcore Arm manual
/ Multi Gage manual) for complete description of Wi-Fi connection.
- Wi-Fi selection for Multi Gage needs a valid Wi-Fi feature.
- SSID and IP address can be modified. Refer to RDS Arm aid (§ G.5.)
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RDS Control Panel
B.2.1 USB connection to the arm

B
Please follow the instruction below to connect RDS to the arm (ROMER Absolute Arm, Cimcore
CA7 Arm, Multi gage, Infinite and Stinger arms) through USB.
 Arm setup
1. Power on the arm.
2. Ensure that the USB cable is correctly connected from the arm to the computer
 RDS setup
3. Enter RDS Control Panel
4. Select Connection tab
5. Select arm type and USB type
6. Save the modifications.
7. Now RDS automatically connects to the arm.
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RDS Control Panel
B.2.2 Wi-Fi Settings

B
When Wi-Fi link type is selected, Wi-Fi settings become available:
Information Description
Area to enter the IP address of the arm
Displays the selected Wi-Fi interface
Displays the selected Wi-Fi windows profile
Opens Wi-Fi configuration window.
Switch the default IP address to the FP3.
Change back the IP address to the default one

depending on FP3 checked or not.
Default IP address : Feature Pack IP address

FP2 Mobility Pack 192.168.0.3
FP3 RS Scanning Pack 192.168.178.199
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RDS Control Panel
To connect to a ROMER Wi-Fi network, it is not necessary to enter Windows Wi-Fi configuration:
RDS manages the ROMER Wi-Fi networks and profiles:
Select “Modify” button, to access to the following window:
B
Information Description Value

Name : displays all available Wi-Fi interface devices
Status Displays the connection status of each interface Connected

Disconnected
Selected interface
Button to refresh the list of available interfaces
Button to validate the choice of the selected

interface
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RDS Control Panel
Information Description Value

SSID : displays all available Romer Wi-Fi networks
Profile Shows the associated Windows Wi-Fi profile when

existing
Signal Strength of the Wi-Fi signal Percentage
Security Type of Wi-Fi security Open / None

WEP
Status Displays the connection status of each network Connected
Disconnected
Not Available
Selected network
Button to refresh the list of available networks
Button to validate the choice of the selected network
Button to delete the existing profile
If the computer has several Wi-Fi devices, choose the one that has to be used to connect to the
arm and click on “Select”.
RDS checks then scans all the Wi-Fi networks recognized as an arm network and displays them in
the list.
Select the one fitting to the feature pack of the arm or to the Multi Gage, and click on “Select”: RDS
automatically creates a profile in Windows and connects the computer to the selected network.
 Wep key
According to the settings of the arm, a Wep key may be requested for the first connection: enter the
key in the request window.
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RDS Control Panel
B.2.3 Computer setup for Wi-Fi connection to a ROMER arm

B
The Wi-Fi chipset used for the Wi-Fi connection should be exclusively dedicated to it.
Please read in appendix the recommended settings for the Wi-Fi chipset.
The following operation is necessary before trying to connect RDS to any arm through Wi-Fi
 Computer setup
1. Switch on the computer’s Wi-Fi adapter
2. Access the Search function on the right side of the screen in Windows8® (“Start menu” for
Windows7®) > type in ”ncpa.cpl” to access the network connection settings.
3. Right-click on “Wireless Network Connection” and select “Properties” :
4. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IPv4), then “Properties”
5. Use the following IP address and subnet mask then OK

Feature Pack IP address Subnet mask
FP2 Mobility Pack 192.168.0.1 255.255.255.0
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RDS Control Panel
 Third party setup software and preferred order of networks

Some computers may use by default a specific management software for Wi-Fi B
instead of Windows. Those management software may not be able to communicate
with ROMER Wi-Fi. In such a case, it is necessary to deactivate it, and to use
Windows management for the Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi of the computer may be managed by a specific software for the device. In
this case, refer to its manual to connect to the arm network and setup the IP address.
If the Wi-Fi of the computer manages preferred order for networks, make sure that the
arm network is at the top of the list.
Ex : if windows manages the Wi-Fi, in the wireless configuration, select “change the
order of preferred networks”
You access then to the following window: select then the arm network and click on
“Move up” until it becomes at the top of the list.
Here, using “Properties”, you can also switch the “T-UN-FF” network as automatic
connection if it is not
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RDS Control Panel
B.2.4 Wireless connection to the arm

Please follow the instruction below to connect RDS to the arm (ROMER Absolute Arm, Cimcore
B
CA7 Arm, Multi gage) through Wi-Fi.
 Arm setup
1. Make sure that the FP2 Mobility Pack or higher is installed on the arm or that the Wi-Fi feature
code for the Multi Gage is installed in RDS.
2. Power on the arm.
3. Ensure that the USB cable is disconnected from the arm to the computer and that the blue light
on the front of the arm is on.
 Computer setup
4. Setup the TCP/IP V4 address of the Wi-Fi interface of the computer according to the Feature
Pack (see previous §)
 RDS setup
5. Enter RDS Control Panel
6. Select Connection tab
7. Select arm type and Wi-Fi type
8. Enter the Arm TCP/IP address of the Feature Pack

Feature Pack IP address
FP2 Mobility Pack 192.168.0.3
9. Click on “Modify”
10. Choose the Wi-Fi interface and “Select”
11. Choose the Feature Pack SSID and “Select”
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RDS Control Panel
12. Close the Wi-Fi window and save the modifications.
13. Now RDS automatically connects to the arm.
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RDS Control Panel
B.2.5 RSx wireless connection

B
When the Romer Absolute Arm SI (integrated scanner) is equipped with a feature Pack “RS
Scanning Pack”, the scanner can be connected through the wireless connection of the arm: no
specific operation is needed, once the arm is connected with the FP3, the scanner connection
doesn’t need any cable.
B.2.6 Infinite / Stinger advanced settings
When Infinite / Stinger connection is selected (restart Control Panel), some options appear:
The arm data that are used are located on the computer but a backup can be stored on the arm.
 Advanced Infinite settings

This is used to define if the data stored in the memory of the arm have to be loaded on the
computer each time RDS connects to the arm. (Default: active)
 Restore Armspecs
This is used to copy the armspecs located on the computer in the memory of the arm.
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RDS Control Panel
B.3 General parameters B
General parameters contain the volume of the arm, the language selection and the configuration of
the wrist camera and headlight (only for 6 axes Arm 75XX series).
B.3.1 Volume
Move the cursor, or use - / + (steps of 5) buttons to get the chosen level
- Low volume :
- High volume :
- Save to apply the changes
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RDS Control Panel
B.3.2 Language B
By default, RDS automatically select the language depending on the language of the operation
system.
Available languages: English, French, Spanish (Spain), Spanish (Mexico), German,

Italian, Portuguese, Swedish, Czech, Hungarian, Polish, Turkish, Russian, Chinese,
Chinese traditional, Japanese, Korean.
For Russian under Windows Xp, regional settings must be using cyrilic characters
For Chinese, Japanese and Korean under Windows Xp, regional settings must be
using oriental characters :
Open Windows control Panel and open “Regional and Language Options”, select
“Languages” tab.
Tick both
options
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RDS Control Panel
B.3.3 Head light (for equipped arms)

B
This tab is displayed only for a 6 axes 75XX (V1-V2-V3) and 73xx V3 series Romer
Absolute arm
Start-Stop the head light on the F axis
Activate-deactivate the auto start
Nb: do not forget to save configuration after modification.
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RDS Control Panel
B.4 SMART B
The SMART tab in RDS control Panel gives access to the activation of the SMART automatic
components, as well as the user information.
Default
Activation of the transmission of SMART data: Activated
when activated, RDS will automatically send SMART data to the
Hexagon Server
Activation of the SMART alerts: Activated
when activated, RDS will display a popup notification when a SMART
alert is detected, or when a news is received.
Activation of the Hexagon news: Activated
when activated, RDS will be able to provide news regarding the product,
new versions...
Display user information English
Display the official user information as during the installation of RDS
To activate or deactivate an option, simply click on the toggle button:
For all other information regarding RDS SMART, refer to chapter F. SMART
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RDS Control Panel
B.5 Profile B
With RDS, one or several profiles can be created to manage specific uses of the arm.
These profiles then appear in this tab, and can be activated.
It is possible to specify how has to react RDS when the user measures out of the restrictions.
- Display a warning : display a message at the center of the screen
- Play a sound : a beep is emitted
- Invalidate the measurement: the point is not accepted.
Contact your Agent for more information about the profiles.
The access to Profile tab is free but can be protected by a password : refer to B.11
Access Control
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RDS Control Panel
B.6 Probe B
This tab displays the current installed probe and allows selecting it manually.
B.6.1 Current Probe
The first information displayed in this tab is to show which is the probe mounted or forced on the
arm.
B.6.2 Calibrate
This button allows starting manually a probe calibration through RDS Data Collector.
B.6.3 Check
This button allows starting manually a probe accuracy check script through RDS Data Collector.
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RDS Control Panel
B.6.4 Probe list and selection B

By default, the probe is automatically recognized and selected when plugged on the arm.
It is possible to deactivate and select manually the probe.
In the sheet above, are shown all available probes, with all corresponding information.
Information Description Displayed value

Name Name of the probe entered when calibrated name
Type Show the type of probe (contact, trigger, type
scanner, Tube probe)
Status Current status (null / Detected / Forced) status
Diameter Diameter of the ball probe Diameter in selected unit
Calculation Result of the last calibration of the selected = “Not Calibrated” when probe
result probe is not calibrated
B.6.5 Action buttons
When using “Force probe selection”, click on the desired probe, and “Save” configuration.
Button Description Comment
View Opens a window with all details of the Possibility to modify some information
selected probe
Force Use this button to deactivate auto
detection of the probe and force to the
selected probe
Delete Use to delete the selected probe if the real probe is plugged again, line will be
added, but calibration will be necessary.
When using “Force probe selection”, make sure that the selected probe is the one
installed on the arm
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RDS Control Panel
B.6.6 View Action button B

Once a probe is selected and settings saved, it is possible to edit the parameters of the probe:
Item Description Values
ID, Name, All same values as before

Type, Diameter,
calculation
result
Custom Probe Defines if the probe is specific or standard Yes / No
Repeatable Shows if the probe is repeatable (TKJ probe) or not and Yes / No
probe then needs recalibration each time it is mounted
X dev, Y dev, X,Y and Z dimension according to TKJ axis Value in mm

Length
“Created on” Date of the first installation of the probe on the arm.
“Updated on” date of last modification (name or diameter change) or last
calibration
“EDIT” Use this button to modify either the name of the Probe,
either the diameter, or the length (approx.), in case of
change of the stylus.
When the operator changes simply the end sensor of the probe, this is not
automatically detected, but probe calibration is necessary: enter “View” button, and
edit the new diameter.
Only the installed probe can be modified. Once the name or diameter are modified,
new values are automatically saved in the probe memory.
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RDS Control Panel
 How to … Edit the settings of a probe

1. Connect the arm to RDS (USB or Wi-Fi) B
2. Mount the probe to edit

3. Open RDS Control Panel, Tab “Probes”
4. Select the probe to edit
5. Click on “View”
6. Click on “Edit”
7. Modify the desired value(s)
8. Click on “Save”
9. Validate the warning message
10. Proceed to the probe calibration
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RDS Control Panel
B.6.7 Adding a new probe

B
 Contact or NC-Tube probe
If a new probe (that is not in the probes list) is mounted on the arm, RDS automatically detects it
and asks user to calibrate it. Then it runs “RDS data collector” to calibrate the new probe. Only
after that, the new probe is displayed in the list.
 Scanner
All types of scanners have the same ID. It means that only one scanner can be used at time on one
arm.
If no scanner exists in the list of probes, as soon as a scanner is mounted on the arm, RDS notifies
the user that a scanner was detected and asks for the type of scanner
Type Description
HP-L-20.8 Hexagon Metrology HP-L-20.8T Laser scanner, managed by RDS
CMS108 CMS 108 (CMS108T) Laser scanner, managed by RDS

rd
External Scanner Any 3 party scanner (such as Perceptron, Kreon)
RS1 / RS2 RS1 / RS2 / RS3 ROMER Laser Scanner (SI arm)
Once this is informed, the scanner appears in the list of probes. In case of HP-L, CMS or RSx,
RDS connects it and asks for scanner qualification.
RDS can manage only one scanner at a time. If a scanner already exists in the list of
probes, it is no more possible to add another one.
To add a new one, it is then, necessary to delete the existing one in the list.
If a scanner (type1) already exists in the list, if another type (type 2) of scanner is
plugged, then RDS will recognize it as the existing one and will try to connect it.
Ex: A CMS is present in the list of probes. If we mount a Perceptron on the arm, RDS
recognizes it as a CMS and tries to connect it as a CMS, unsuccessfully.
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RDS Control Panel
B.6.8 Non-repeatable probes

 Threaded probes
B
Some probes present the particularity not to be repeatable:
- Probe kit : the probe can be dismounted, to change the length, or configuration
- Thread probe.
Such probes, as they are assembled or mounted through a screw, are not repeatable.
It means that they have to be recalibrated each time it is used. To prevent the operator to forget to
recalibrate, these types of probes are programmed as “Non-repeatable” probes and each time they
are plugged on the arm, RDS asked for recalibration:
- For the non-repeatable probes, specific parameters are automatically displayed in Control Panel
probe tab:
Item Description
Warn me every time a (default – recommended): each time a non-repeatable probe is
probe is detected connected on the arm, RDS remind the user to do a probe
calibration.
Keep quiet RDS will skip the warning :
Until another probe is If the probe is dismounted from the arm, then
detected mounted again, no message will appear
when mounting again the same probe, even
if it is a non-repeatable probe.
If another probe is mounted, then RDS will
warn again when the non-repeatable probe
will be mounted.
Until another arm is Even if another probe is mounted, then the
connected non-repeatable probe again, RDS will not
warn.
Only once another arm is connected, then
again the arm with the non-repeatable probe,
then RDS warn again
During 1 day RDS will not warn in any condition during 1
day or 1 week.
During 1 week
indefinitely The warning functionality is deactivated. (not

recommended)
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RDS Control Panel
 TJK probe adapter management:

For the arms on which the probe is threaded (no TKJ connection neither M27 Probe nut) such as B
71xx series arms, the probes don’t have the same repeatability as TKJ probes or M27 probes.
Moreover, some probes, are available only with TKJ or M27 connectors (such as NC Tube probes,
Touch trigger Probes, …) thus can’t be mounted directly on those arms.
To be able to use all TKJ connector advantages on a 71xx series arm, a TKJ adapter can be
mounted. Such adapter is normally designed to be let on the arm to be able to use repeatable
probes (that avoid recalibration each time the probe is mounted) and to use NC Tube probes,
Touch trigger probes, ….
Once the TKJ adapter is mounted, the arm can use probes as a standard 73xx or 75xx series arm.
NOTICE
The TKJ adapter is dedicated to definitely replace the threaded connector by a TKJ connector on
the 71xx series arm. Thus all the existing threaded probes should be replaced by TKJ probes.
However, if the adapter is dismounted (to mount again a threaded probe for ex.), each time the TKJ
adapter is mounted back on the arm (=screw = not repeatable), all probe calibrations should be
invalidated and all probes recalibrated.
RDS automatically detect when the adapter has been dismounted and ask the question for full
probes recalibration
- For the TKJ adapter, specific parameters are automatically displayed in Control Panel probe tab:
Thread probes management
Item Description
Invalidate all probes RDS recognizes when the TKJ adapter is dismounted from the arm
when TKJ adapter is and as soon as it is mounted back on the arm, all the probe
mounted or unmounted. calibrations are automatically invalidated.
Invalidate now In case the automatic invalidation was not active and the message to
invalidate was refused, this button gives the way to invalidate the
probes calibration at any moment.
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RDS Control Panel
B.7 Scanner B
Scanner tab appears only when a scanning head is detected on the arm.
The parameters depend on the type of scanner.
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RDS Control Panel
B.7.1 Common items

B
1
HP-L- CMS
RSx
20.8 108
1 Scanner Shows the type of scanner (CMS108, HP-L-20.8 or

type RSx)
2 Capture Defines the way to use the button :

mode capture only when BP1 is pressed
start or stop capture when BP1 is pressed
start capture when BP1 is pressed and
automatically stop when a number of scan lines is
reached
3 Nb Stripes Number of scan stripes above which the scan stops.
4 Depth Emits a sound that helps to keep good height

sound
The capture mode defines the way to start and stop digitizing:
- “Press Button once to start and stop” : the button of the arm is used as a switch : one simple
press-and-release to start digitizing, another one to stop.
- Capture while button is pressed : pre3ss and hold the button to start and continue digitizing,
release the button to stop.
- Capture n not empty stripes : press the button to start digitizing, then RDS automatically stops
when the defined number of stripes (“Number of Stripes” parameter) is reached.
While digitizing, a sound can be emitted from the arm, giving information about the distance
between the scanner and the surface to scan : when this option is activated, the closest the
scanner is to the surface, the higher the sound frequency is, and no sound is emitted if the scanner
is out of the scanning window.
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RDS Control Panel
B.7.2 Sampling filter (HP-L20.8 / CMS108 / RS3)

To improve the performance and speed of digitizing (depending on the performance of the
B
computer and the final software), it is possible to reduce the number of digitized points by skipping
a regular percentage of points, points by points or line by line.
HP-L- CMS
Points sampling RS3
20.8 108
None =keep all the points (100 %)
80 % = keep 4 points on 5
50 % = keep 1 point on 2
5 % = keep 1 point on 20 …
2.5 %= keep 1 Point on 40
Etc.
HP-L- CMS
Line sampling RS3
20.8 108
None = keep all the lines
1/2 = keep 1 line on 2 (50%

remain)
1/3 = keep 1 line on 3 (33%

remain)
Etc…
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RDS Control Panel
B.7.3 Exposure (RSx) B
 Exposure :
3 ways to setup the exposure are available:
- Manual mode: the exposure is setup manually defining the exposure value. It is not possible to
setup while digitizing.
- Auto Static mode : Capture the exposure: using manual mode, RDS switches temporarily to
automatic exposure, until it is setup. When the capture is done, the mode switches back to
manual mode. It is not possible to setup while digitizing.
- Auto Dynamic mode (RS2 / RS3 only) : the exposure is setup automatically in real time even
while digitizing : no need to take care about set it up.
Manual mode Static mode Dynamic mode

Buttons None
behaviour
Capture
Switch
Adjustment Manual
Adjustment Automatic
Adjustment while
scanning
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RDS Control Panel
 Manual setup
Set up the exposure time of the camera: the higher the value is, the longer the camera is opened. B
This parameter has to be set up according to the ambiance light and the darkness of the surface:
set low value for clear surface and higher value for dark surface. However, a high value increases
the risk of noise points. It is then necessary to adjust this parameter correctly.
Cursor
Percentage 1% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Exp. time 20µs 200µs 1000µs 4000µs 10000µs
Light capted
by the
scanner
Darkness of
the part
Noise
 Automatic static exposure : Capture the exposure

RDS can do automatically the exposure setup instead of moving manually the exposure scroll and
checking the result.
This exposure can be done with “Capture” and “Switch” buttons behaviours :
In RDS Control Panel, Scanner tab, set the “Behaviour” to “Capture the exposure time”.
Capture behavior
Place the scanner over the surface and press simultaneously BP0 and BP2 : the exposure
mode switches temporarily to automatic mode until the adjustment is done. Hold the
scanner a few seconds until the arm emits 2 beeps (the mode automatically switches back
to manual mode).
Scan can then go on.
If the buttons behaviour is set to “Switch the exposure mode”, the process is the same but
Switch behaviour
the memorization of the exposure is done by the user :

Place the scanner over the surface and press simultaneously BP0 and BP2 : the exposure
mode switches to automatic mode. Once the adjustment is done (the exposure value is
stabilized, giving correct number of points), press once again both buttons to switch back to
manual mode. Hold the scanner a few seconds until the arm emits 2 beeps.
 Automatic dynamic exposure (RS2 / RS3 Automatic mode)

The exposure can be dynamically setup during all operations. Only the behaviour “Switch” can be
used.
In RDS Control Panel, Scanner tab, set the “Behaviour” to “Switch Exposure mode” and select
“Automatic mode” by the drop down list or using the buttons of the arm or even with the exposure
button of the Scanning window.
The exposure is then adjusted in real time while digitizing.
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RDS Control Panel
 Behaviour when pressing left and right buttons

This setting is used to define the way to use the buttons of the arm. B
- None : the press on both buttons simultaneously is inhibited : only manual mode is available.
- Capture the exposure time (default) : in Manual mode, it is still possible to get and memorize an
automatic exposure by pressing simultaneously the two buttons of the arm; the scanner has to
be placed over the surface, then RDS is doing an automatic setup, and switches back
automatically to manual mode once it is done.
- Switch exposure mode (only for RS2 / RS3) : when the two buttons are pressed simultaneously,
the user changes the mode of exposure (Manual / Auto). This is useful when the automatic mode
is used, to be able to freeze the exposure, and to refine it.
- None : no action will be done when pressing both buttons simultaneously
To switch Manual/Auto mode, it is possible to press the button on the

RDS Scanning window.
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RDS Control Panel
B.7.4 Scanning modes (HP-L-20.8 / CMS108) B
 Scanning mode
CMS108 / HP-L-20.8 scanners can digitize using different widths and resolutions.
Line length: defines the width of the laser (width in mm).
Point Spacing: defines the resolution distance between digitized points (points spacing in mm)
 HP-L-20.8 scanning modes
Line width Rate

Laser line Point spacing
(mm) (Hz)
220 0.050 37
130 0.050 51
0.025 50
63
0.012 28
51 0.050 100
25 0.012 50
Table 1 : HP-L-20.8 scanning modes
 CMS108 scanning modes
Line width Rate

Laser line Point spacing
(mm) (Hz)
0.120 30
120
0.060 15
0.060 51
60
0.030 29
0.050 53
25
0.025 36
Table 2 : CMS108 scanning modes
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B.7.5 Gain – Quality filter (HP-L-20.8 / CMS108)

B
 Gain (Normal/High/VeryHigh)
The gain permits to improve the ability of the scanner to get points in difficult conditions. The
sensor should typically be used with gain set to Normal. When measuring dark, glossy or
translucent surfaces, in the event it is hard to capture data you can set the gain to High or Very
High (HP-L-20.8 only).
The metrological performance of the system can be affected when gain is set to High
or Very High since the likelihood of low quality data being generated is increased.
However, if the quality filter is enabled, these data should be automatically removed
 Quality filter
The sensor has a quality filter to remove points which are deemed to be low quality, including:
- Double reflections
- Poor quality data on edges
- Isolated points/outliers
When measuring dark, glossy or translucent surfaces, in the event it is still difficult to capture data
with gain set to High, you can also disable the quality filter at the cost of overall reduced data
quality.
The metrological performance of the system is not guaranteed when this filter is
disabled since low quality data may be generated
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B.8 Auxiliary Referencing B

RDS control panel offers the possibility to position the system on several places, linking the
different positions by a reference, extending then the measurement volume.
Several solutions are available :

- Simple arm Leap-Frog : consists by taking same points before and after moving the arm.
- Grid Lok : permits to position the arm anywhere on the Lok floor, and reference the position by
taking Lok points.
- Space Lok : permits to move the arm around the “Space Lok” tool
- Part / Tool Loks : used to move around the part / tool.
- Load a reference from a file
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B.8.1 Reminder: Theory about moving a measurement device B

To move the arm from one place to another one, leap-frog is using a script in RDS Data Collector :
click on “New”, RDS Data Collector appears, executing automatically a leap-frog script.
During a measurement, both parts that are the measurement system and the part to measure must
be imperatively interdependent from each other, that means any displacement is forbidden.
When the part to be measured is larger than the measurement device can do, it becomes
necessary to find a way to move one ( arm or part) to be able to measure the inaccessible zone.
That means moving « without moving », having a perfect knowledge of the movement done
(distance, orientations, offsets…)
Technically, such a displacement is a reference change (from a system of axes N°1 to a system of
axes N°2), the start (Ref N°1),is then Machine reference. (RM).
RM Pos2
To allow the software to know this displacement in all details, we use elements that will be
accessible from both positions of the measuring device : those elements measured from both
positions, the software comparing them, will calculate a displacement « matrix » : displacement in
X, Y and Z, of the origin point, and each rotations it underwent between both positions (along X, Y
and Z).
P1 P2
Overlap points
The displacement method consists by an « Overlap » method, using geometric elements, probed
identically from both positions.
Depending on the accuracy of the measurement device, this displacement will necessary generate
a loss of accuracy, as it results from two measurements of the elements.
To minimize this lost, it is important to optimize the method. Here are the main rules :
Use the most accurate measurement device
Look for the positions of the measurement device as to have a lap area (accessible from both
positions) as large as possible, as to « stabilize « as best as possible the displacement. (as the 4
feet of a table are on each extremities of the table, not at the center).
Use a maximum number of elements (geometric elements used for this leap-frog) (a table is more
stable on 4 feet than on 3).
Use good quality elements (a machined bore will be much better than a tapping not clean).
The type of elements used will define the calculation method used by the software.
« LeapFrog » name is often used.
NB : moving the measurement device or moving the part comes to the same thing
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B.8.2 Description of the Reference Tab B

 LOK / VPS
Item Description
Sound On Activate the sounds when VPS / Lok are used
Show Best Fit Display the best fit maximum error when the
positioning is done
Display in task Display an information status window in the task
bar bar after the calculation
Disable Macro
Max Best-Fit Maximum authorized best fit value, over which the
reference is not accepted.
 Available references
Available Display the list of all references.

references
Name Name given to the reference
Type Type of reference Leapfrog

GridLOK
…
Memory Permanent
Temporary
Status Shows which reference is engaged Active (available)
Engaged (used)
Dongle detected (LOK)
Force
Clear
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 Type Of Reference :
- Permanent : a reference can be memorized in the arm memory, to be able to use it even after a B
restart of the system : this can be necessary if the work is not finished and has to be continued
after a restart.
- Temporary : (default for Leap-Frog) the reference is not memorized in the arm memory, but
simply temporary on the computer, until the arm is restarted. Then the reference is lost. In case
there could be a necessity to stop the work and restart the system, then it is recommended to
define this reference as a permanent, to save it, and when the work is finished, to delete it
All references notified as “Permanent” are saved in the arm memory : if the arm is
connected on another computer, it is not necessary to reload those references.
 Reference components
Item Description
Edit Display the characteristics of the

selected reference.
Add Use to add a reference from a file,

or to add a configuration file for
LOK
Remove Use to delete a reference or LOK

configuration from the memory of
the arm.
 Leap frog choice
Selected Use to select which of the active references is in-use
New Use to move the arm by a leap-frog method.
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B.8.3 Leap Frog in RDS B

 Principle
RDS transmits the coordinates of probed points to final software.
Measuring device RDS Final Software
By operating the Leap Frog at the level of RDS, the displacement becomes transparent to the final
software. That means it’s like if it was a very large measurement volume. We can then use the final
software as if there was no displacement.
To do, we use a group of points as Leap Frog elements : it can be cones, holes or angles in which
the ball probe is seated, or targets, at the centre of which the point probe is placed (attention,
however this way is less accurate).
This group needs at least 3 points that will be probed IN THE SAME ORDER from position 1 and
position 2.
Only one probe can be used for this operation.
 Method
In RDS Control Panel, in RDS Data Collector or directly from the task bar, access to new leap
Frog.
1. Control Panel : Tab Reference, click on “new”
2. Place or choose correctly the points to probe

3. Run the script
4. Probe the points from 1st position, notice the order.
5. When all points are probed, move the arm, (make sure it is well fixed) and probe again the
points IN THE SAME ORDER
6. When prompted, enter a name for this displacement, and select if it is a temporary or
permanent reference.
7. Click on OK : it’s over.
A second displacement is possible by the same way, then third …however, a loss of accuracy may
happen each time.
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B.8.4 GridLOK / SpaceLOK B

The principle of GridLOK is comprised of a grid system with conical seats installed in a concrete
slab or steel plate, and calibrated with a laser tracker. This means it can cover a very large volume.
Then at any moment, by taking points on 3 seats, RDS calculates automatically the position of the
arm on the GridLOK. Measurements can be done, in any software, and the arm moved at any
moment, only 3 points are necessary to take, without any button to press or click on, any other
operation than hit 3 points on the seats.
SpaceLOK recalls the principle of GridLOK, but instead of a large grid of several seats on a floor,
the only 4 seats are fixed on a triangular 3D pyramid, than can be displaced (and disassemble in
some cases). This tool can then be place at the center of the part to measure, as to move the arm
all around the SpaceLOK tool.
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 Load the configuration file on the arm :

Open RDS control Panel, tab Reference, then Load the calibration GridLOK file (*.dat) : the B
GridLOK file is then “Active” in the list of references. Save and Exit RDS
 Plug-In the GridLOK dongle on the USB port of the computer.
 GridLOK is then ready to use :

At any moment, under any software or even out of any software mount the ball probe dedicated to
the GridLOK on the arm, and probe 3 GridLOK points. Attention, the three points must form a 90°
triangle
For each point, no need to hit the button, simply keep the probe seated in the target a few second,
until a beep is emitted, then move to next target.
1 2
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 Automatic calculation :
RDS calculates automatically the position of the arm on the workshop and display the best fit value B
on the screen:
GridLok Demo 1
GridLOK Locked 2
Best-Fit : 0.014 3
4
1. GridLOK calibration file name

2. GridLOK status (Locked / Unlocked)
3. Best-fit value
4. Representation of the GridLOK targets, highlighting the measured ones
In RDS Control Panel, Reference tab, the GridLok reference appears as “Engaged”
The RDS status notification reminds then:
 Back to machine reference:

To come back to original Arm reference, take three times the point. Be sure to slightly pause
between each point, then RDS will display status information on the screen
GridLok Demo
GridLOK Unlocked
Each time the arm is disconnected from RDS, the GridLOK is unlocked. Remeasure
seats to recalculate the GridLOK position.
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B.9 Advanced settings B
 Manage long press on arm buttons

Some measuring software are using separately short click and long press on the button of the
device. The limit between short and long press is approximately 1second. Then the function on the
software will be different (validate / cancel, …).
By default, RDS manages this feature, but some software (such as GPad) already manage it. In
this case, it is recommended to deactivate it in RDS.
The long press is not active when the mouse is active.
 Play a sound if long press detected on arm buttons :

RDS plays a sound when user keep pressed a button (long press = 500 ms). It is possible to lock
this sound for specified button. (by default button 1 is locked)
The delay for long press can be modified: contact your local agent.
 Haptic feedback
Latest arms (V3 or upper) are equipped with a haptic motor in the wrist. This produces a haptic
feedback when one axis is reaching the electronic limit. This feedback can be deactivated with this
option.
 Remote mouse
Through the last axes of the measuring device, the mouse in Windows can be controlled by the
arm.
- Each button (button 0, 1, 2, 3) can be affected to a specific mouse function (Left Button,
Middle Button, and Right Button).
- Movement sensibility (in % of highest sensibility): defines the minimum movement speed of the
arm to start moving the pointer. This is useful to manage double click.
- Remote mouse available: unselect to completely deactivate the mouse of the arm.
- Auto suppress remote mouse if no movement: if RDS detects no movement of the arm, remote
mouse is automatically deactivated, and reactivated as soon as the arm moves again.
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 Enable stops (only for Calibration Centres)

Enable / disable alarm and security on mechanical stops of the axes (B, D and F axes). B
When enabled, when one axis (B, D or F) reaches the limit, measurement and mouse will be
stopped.
NOTICE
For security and constraints reasons, it is recommended to always keep this setting “on”.
 Allow measurement even if encoder over limit (only for Calibration Centres) :
Enable / disable the possibility to take points when the arm reaches its limits (i.e. if it is under
constraints).
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B.10 Video capture (for equipped arms) B
This tab is displayed only for a 6 axes 75XX (V1-V2-V3) and 73xx V3 series Romer
Absolute arm equipped with a camera on the wrist.
RDS can manage video pictures coming from USB video camera. The camera can be either the
one located on the wrist of the absolute arm, either an external USB webcam. Some measurement
software are able to manage, calibrate the video camera and use the picture.
When Video capture is activated, a picture is automatically taken and sent to the measurement
software each time
- a point is taken with a contact probe
The picture can be also saved on the hard drive when this item is select in this RDS Tab
This tab is then used to setup this management.
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 Main settings
B
Item Description
Video capture Activate the use of camera by RDS

available
Video device Use to select the camera to use
Image Settings Gives access to change the parameters of the image (see next paragraph)
Start / Stop Manually starts / stops the video

Automatically As soon as the arm is connected, video capture starts and the video
start video … window is displayed
Those settings can be modified as well on “General parameters” tab.
Item Description
Store captured When this option is ticked, the taken picture is also saved on the computer,
frames to disk on the specified folder
Captured frames Path for stored frames and pictures (please contact your local agent for
modification)
Explore directory Opens Windows ® explorer on the specified folder.
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 Image settings
By clicking on “Image settings”, the user accesses to the parameters of the captured picture: B
Resize captured image: definition of the resolution of the image (in pixels).
Standard size Predefined sizes Tiny (160x120)

Small (320x240)
Medium (480x360)
Large (640x480)
Custom size Used for other resolutions
Width / height Custom resolutions In pixels
Image processing Used to mirror the image Flip Horizontal

Flip vertical
Output format Format and quality of the shot picture Jpeg

Bmp
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B.11 Access Control B

Some items can be protected by a password. Here is the management of those passwords.
The access of this tab itself is protected by a password (“Romer2011”).
To be sure about the password that has been entered, click on “Show plain password”: the
asterisks are replaced by the real characters.
B.11.1 How to … modify the protection of a function

1. Access « Access Control » tab
2. Enter the password « Romer2011 »
3. Select the function to protect and {Modify}
4. Tick « Unlocked »to remove the protection or “Locked” to activate or modify the password
5. Enter or change the password if necessary (“Locked”) and click on OK
B.11.2 List of available protections

Item Description Default
Access control Modification of the protections “Romer2011”
Profiles Management of the profiles No protection
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B.12 Features B
B.12.1 Interface
Some features of RDS are protected and request an activation code.
This tab is used to manage such options (Wi-Fi connection / CO calibration… ):
 Feature options
Features can be linked either to the S/N of the arm, either to the Mac address of the computer.
Temporary features and version-limited features are possible.
Each feature parameter is displayed (period, Mac address, S/N, …)
Information Description Displayed value

Button to get a request code for an option
Button to enter a new activation code
Shows if the option is valid or not

/ (valid)
(no more valid)

Name Type of option Run all calibration
Diagnosis tools
Upgrade firmware
…
Period Limitation date of the option (if limited)
Version Limitation version of the option (if limited)
Parameter Associated hardware identification MAC address
Serial number of arm
Code Activation code of the feature
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B.12.2 How to add a new feature:

B
 Ask for a new activation code :
1. Click on “Ask for a new feature” :
2. Then a choice of options is proposed :
3. Select the type of feature to add, then click on “OK”.
4. Following window appears : by default, the serial number of the current connected measuring
system is displayed.
5. Enter Serial number of arm and press OK
6. A request code is given
7. Send the request code to your Hexagon Metrology contact : give request code (20 digit code),
you’ll then get back activation code.
 Enter the activation code

8. Once you have the activation code, click Or from the main tab, click on “add an
on “Enter Activation code now” activation code”
9. Enter the code and click on “OK”
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 To cancel a feature :
Select the feature, then click on “Delete”. B
If RDS is reinstalled on same computer, it is not necessary to re-enter activation

codes.
If RDS is reinstalled on a new computer, it is necessary to re-enter activation codes.
Make sure to keep those activation codes in a safe place
B.12.3 Types of feature
 Wi-Fi (Multi Gage)

Default connection for NCA (ABSOLUTE and Multi Gage) is USB. Wi-Fi option has to be activated
to be able to use it on Multi gage.
Follow previous chapter to activate Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi activation code is associated with the device and cannot be used with another
device.
 Calibration, Diagnostic tools

Hexagon Metrology agents can use RDS to calibrate the system (under condition of training and
equipment). Request an activation code to Hexagon Metrology.
 RSx upgrade
To upgrade the Romer scanner RS1 to RS2 or to RS3, a special feature code is necessary.
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B.13 About B
1
2
This tab displays useful information about the versions of RDS, Windows®, and about the
computer’s adapters.
SYSTEM INFORMATION
1 Windows … Operating system version
2 RDS v… Details of RDS version
3 Network adapters Checking and details of all available network devices on the
computer (including Wi-Fi / Bluetooth / wired RJ45 network).
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C. RDS TOOLBOX C
C.1 Presentation
Windows firewall must allow RDS Toolbox to communicate with networks.
When Windows prompt the security alert, click on “Allow Access”
RDS Toolbox is a part of RDS package and is globally dedicated to the maintenance of the arm.
RDS toolbox provides 5 main uses:

- Publications : the publication of various news and links
- Control Panel : the access to the configuration of the arm
- SMART : a powerful survey system to prevent or diagnose any issue
- Vault: a management of saved data (including SMART data), synchronized with a server.
- Maintenance tools: several maintenance and analyze tools, using direct connection to the arm or
using the packages from the Vault.
3 groups of tiles give access to the different function panels

- News tiles: RDS Toolbox can collect news and information from HEXAGON SERVER database
(internet connection required) to give advices to the user.
- Main arm configuration, vault and SMART tiles.
- Other maintenance tiles : specific programing, diagnose and analyse functions
 Profiles
There are 2 profiles of RDS Toolbox, depending on a valid feature code or not.
- : End User profile (default)
- : Technician profile (requires a valid calibration feature code).
Depending on the profile, some items may be available or not. This manual only describes the End-
User profile.
For all the specific functions for Technician profile, please read RDS Technician
manual.
 News & Links

To facilitate the routing of useful news regarding the device, the application, tips, … RDS Toolbox
receives and provides news and links to the user.
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 Arm Status C
This tool is a quick view of the current status of the connected arm.
 Control Panel
RDS Control Panel is dedicated to the configuration of the arm.
 Vault
RDS collects data from calibrations or certifications processes, as well as many indicators in real
time from the device (see after). RDS Vault is the exchange module, which synchronizes those
packages of data to the Hexagon Metrology Portable arms server and allows downloading them for
expertise goal.
In RDS Toolbox, the Vault is the tool to manage the packages download and use.
 SMART
SMART is one of the main items of RDS Toolbox : SMART collects information from the device,
and through the vault synchronizes them with the Hexagon Metrology Portable Arms database.
Then those information can be consulted at any time in RDS Toolbox, on the same computer, or
even on any other computer via a download.
One first aim is to let the user of the maintenance people checking and analysing indicators of the
arm, then to locate any issue or to survey the good health of the arm.
A second application is to warn the user in any case of potential damage. When an indicator goes
out of the reasonable limits, RDS Toolbox shows immediately a warning.
 Maintenance
RDS Toolbox contains a large part of maintenance tools. Used for programming components,
surveying in real time the behaviour of electronic signals, consulting Log files, …
It also contains some links to other RDS tools such as Arm Aid.
 Arm selection
By default, RDS Toolbox always refers to the currently connected arm : the arm status shows the
currently connected arm, SMART, shows informations regarding the same connected arm, …
However, as Toolbox can collect and memorize information from arms previously connected or
even from other arm through the vault import, it is possible to view information regarding another
arm. That is why a list of arms is available.
The legacy arms (Infinite, Infinite2 and Stinger) are not supported by RDS Toolbox.
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C.2 RDS Toolbox description C

C.2.1 Main panel description
When entering RDS Toolbox, the main panel appears. It is mainly composed by 3 groups of tiles:
- News and links tiles
- Main tools
- Maintenance tiles
2 buttons at the top right can be used to select the arm and view the connection status.
3
1
4
2
5 6 7
1 Menu Control Shows the current menu and gives access to change menu through
the ribbon
2 Ribbon Displays the choice of menu, arm…
3 Connection status Shows if the computer is currently connected to the Hexagon Server
4 Arm selection Shows the current arm and gives the ability to select another arm in
the memory
5 News & links Tiles Information tiles : contains all the received news and several official
links
6 Main tools Tiles This is the centre of RDS toolbox : contains the main functions such
as the current status of the arm, the access to RDS control panel,
the management of the vault, and the management of SMART.
7 Maintenance tiles Deployment of all the maintenance Tiles.
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RDS Toolbox
C.2.2 Menus navigation

 Quick Navigation guide
C
Open a panel Click on the tile
Click on the Action line button
Go back to the upper level Click on the Exit button on the Action line
Go back to the Home panel Click on the Home button on the Ribbon
 Use tiles
In RDS Toolbox, to open a panel, or activate a link, simply click on the desired Tile.
Depending on the resolution of the screen, RDS Toolbox panels may go over the
screen. In such case, shift the panel from right to left by dragging it with the mouse
(click out of the tiles).
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 Ribbon
On the top of the screen, the current menu is displayed. C
1 2 3
1 Home Returns to the home panel (no ribbon choice)

2 Menu levels
3 Current panel Simply remind the current menu (no ribbon choice)
Click on Home to display the home panel and use the tiles.
To go back to the main panel, simply click on the Home button
 Action line
On most of the panels, is located a band that contains the action buttons. RDS Toolbox
automatically shows the useful buttons.
1. Action buttons
2. Action line
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C.2.3 RDS Toolbox notifications

C
One aspect of RDS Toolbox is to keep the user informed. This can concern warnings about the
status of the arm or information about Hexagon Metrology news, or new available accessory, or
software version, …
The notification is display for some seconds, after what it is automatically hidden.
The notifications can be displayed again after a while.
Colour of the
notification SMART Alert notification
Information notification
News notification
Description of
the notification Click on the text Opens the notification in the appropriate Panel
Pin the notification Pin the notification to keep it displayed (on the
foreground) until it is unpinned or until the user click on
it to open in RDS Toolbox.
Unpin the notification Unlock the notification and let it be hidden.
Close the notification
Symbol of the According to the type of notification.

/ /… notification
Details Displays details in a window.
Alert and News notifications pop-up only if the connected arm is in rest position or if no
arm is connected.
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 SMART Notifications
RDS SMART is designed to survey all the electronic indicators of the arm to detect any anomaly so C
prevent from any potential issue.
As soon as an indicator becomes abnormal, RDS Toolbox displays a notification to warn the user
about this defect.
The number of occurrences of the alert is shown under the form of icon : / / /…
Click on the text of the notification to open the complete description and recommendations in RDS
Toolbox.
Depending on the priority of the notification, it will be reminded several times until it is
acknowledged or postponed, or after a certain number of reminders.
 Information notifications
Some notifications may pop-up giving simple information regarding an event, … A click on this
information notification may run an action, depending on the type of information.
 News notifications
One aspect of RDS Toolbox is to provide latest news, information or useful links to the user.
When the computer is connected to internet, news are automatically downloaded and displayed by
RDS Toolbox.
All the news can be found in the News&Links group of tiles, however as soon as one is
downloaded by RDS Toolbox, a notification is displayed above windows status icons.
Hexagon Metrology
Launches Pc-Dmis
Touch V3
As for the Alerts and information, the News notifications can be pinned, moved, and a click on the
text of the notification directly opens the complete news in RDS Toolbox. Once opened, the
notification will not pop-up again.
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RDS Toolbox
C.2.4 Local and Distant arms

C
RDS ToolBox doesn’t manage only the currently connected arm, but stores the history of all the
connected arms on the computer. Thus it is possible to get information of any arm that has been
previously connected to the computer. All these “historic” arms constitute the local arms database.
However the other arms (“Distant arms”) can still be manage by downloading their data from the
Hexagon Server.
Type Level Sub-type

Local arms Connected arm Currently connected arm
Off-line arms Arms that have been previously connected.
Distant arms Arms that have never been connected to the

computer
C.2.5 Maintenance Connection

Some tools of RDS Toolbox require a special connection: when using those tools, the arm enters in
a “Maintenance connection status” and the connection with RDS service itself is temporary hung
on.
The tools that are using this Maintenance Connection are:
Type Level Description

Encode
Analysis
(customer)
Upgrade of
Firmware
Configure Wi-Fi
chipset
Program probe
Arm Dashboard
Encode
Analysis
(advanced)
When the arm is under “Maintenance connection, the Arm selection shows:
Maintenance connection
Once the maintenance tool is finished or left, the arm goes back to a normal connected status.
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C.3 Panels common features C

C.3.1 Status of the connection
To be able to synchronize the Vault packages and the news, RDS Toolbox needs to be connected
to the Hexagon Metrology Portable Arms Server (“Hexagon Server”). A simple standard internet
connection is needed.
When the computer is not connected to internet, the SMART data and all the new Vault packages
are stored locally on the computer, to be synchronized as soon as the computer gets a connection.
Once the computer is connected to internet, RDS Toolbox automatically synchronize the Vault
content (packages up and down), and collects and displays any new notifications.
On the top right corner of RDS Toolbox, is shown the status of the connection to the Hexagon
Metrology Portable Arms server.
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RDS Toolbox
C.3.2 Arm selection

C
RDS Toolbox is not limited to the currently connected arm, but can be used to survey any local
arm.
RDS Toolbox by default displays the information for the currently connected arm.
Especially for SMART purpose, RDS Toolbox memorizes all the previously connected arms, and
can display information on those Off-line arms.
On the top right of the screen, an arm selection can be done: click on the Arm selection button: the
ribbon shows all the available arms in memory.
Depending on the status of the selected arm, the icon colour changes:
The Arm is connected and ready
The Arm is connected, but a warning is currently

displayed (Res position, error, alert…) about it or
Maintenance connection is in use.
The Arm is Off-line
The selection of Off-line arms can be used only for SMART and Arm status functions,
all other Panels are not accessible.
Once an arm is selected, RDS ToolBox panels will display the information of this arm.
If the serial number of the local arm is not recognized, it is replaced in the list by the
type and size of the arm, as it appears in the Arms selection list.
( )
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RDS Toolbox
C.3.3 Spreadsheets management – Search (Ctrl+F)

C
All over RDS Toolbox panels, items are displayed in a list. All the lists are managed the same way,
and provide some tools to find easily the desired item:
- Sort by list
- Filtering
- Show / Hide
 Lists sorting
On some of the tables displayed in RDS Toolbox, the lists can be sorted by each item:
Click on the column header that has to be used to sort, a symbol on the column header ( / )
shows which column and which order is used.
 Lists filtering
On most of the tables displayed in RDS Toolbox, filters can be applied to reduce it: place the
pointer over the column header and click on the filter symbol
Then select in the list the wanted filter
- Either one of the current values

- Either a custom filter :
Once a filter is activated, the filter symbol appears on the column header: .
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 81

RDS Toolbox
 Search (Ctrl + F)
As numbers of software, a quick search function can be used with the shortcut Ctrl + F. Even if no C
“Search” area is visible, Ctrl + F will provide a search function by keyword.
Any time the filter symbol is present, the search function can be activated:
- Click on the heater of the spreadsheet, in order to display the filter symbol.
- On the keyboard press Ctrl + F : a search area appears
- Enter the keyword: the list is automatically reduced.
 Groups expand / reduce

In some panels, the information are grouped (ex: Arm status). In such case, it is possible to expand
or hide the content of a group by clicking on the arrow on the right
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 82

RDS Toolbox Information tiles
D. RDS TOOLBOX INFORMATION TILES D

RDS Toolbox provides various information for the user:
- News& links about Romer products, new versions of software, possible hardware retrofits…
- Currently connected arm information
D.1 News & links publications

 News notifications
When the computer is connected to Internet, RDS Toolbox can receive publications of news. As
soon as a new publication is received, a notification appears on the bottom right of the screen.
Click on the open button to see the details of the publication. (See §Notifications for more details)
 RDS Toolbox Home Panel

On the RDS Toolbox home panel, one tile is dedicated to the news: all the latest news titles are
scrolling. Click on the tile to open the Publication panel (see after)
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 83

 Publications panel
From the Home Panel, click on the News tile to open the publications screen: D
2
1
3
Here are shown all the news and links publications.

1. List of publications
2. Tittle of the current publication
3. Publication window
4. Pages control buttons (Action line)
The list of news is sorted by publication date. Click on the news to display in the publication
window.
The publication window behaves like an internet browser, the publications are html pages, with
text, pictures and eventually internal or external internet links. For example, a publication may
contain a link to the Hexagon Metrology web site.
Return to previous web page
Go again to the next page
Refresh the current page
Stop the scrolling
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 84

D.2 Arm status D
Click on the Arm status tile: this screen shows information about the selected arm.
The Arm Status can be used both for the currently connected arm ( ) and for an
Off-line arm( ).
The displayed information is grouped by categories:
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 85

D.2.1 Standard information

D
Connection status
Arm type Type of system (NCA / ), connection (USB / Wi-Fi), and arm
(RA7 / RA7SE / RA7SI)
Serial number Unit identification number of the arm (only once it is identified
by the Hexagon server) (see manual of the arm for the
description)
Connected Shows if the arm is connected ( ) or not ( )
Connected since Date and time of the establishment of the current connection.
Seen last time on Date and time of the end of connection of the Off-line arm.
Arm Status
Overall status Information about connection and status (ex : Rest position)
Armspecs date Date and time of last arm calibration

time
Profile name Arm profile in use.
External Temperature measured by the arm (see arm manual for sensor
Temperature location)
Battery Level On power supply / on Battery + % of the full charge
Position XYZ Coordinates of the probe center point
Wrist buttons
Show if the button is pressed ( ) or released ( ) for BP0,
state
BP1 and BP2.
Remote mouse
Shows if the arm mouse is active ( ) or not ( ).
Video capture
Shows if the wrist camera is on ( ) or not ( ).
Head light
Shows if the wrist head light is on ( ) or not ( ).
Current probe
Name Designation of the current probe
Type Hard contact, trigger, scanner, or NC-Tube probe
Dimensions Diameter and length of the probe
Calculation result Precision of the probe : residual error of the last probe
calibration
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Current probe
D
Sub type
ID Identification number of the probe
Axes (deploy)
A to H Raw value and angle (radians) of each encoder
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D.2.2 Arm properties (deploy)

D
Arm properties (deploy)
Serial number Identification of the arm (see manual of the arm for the
description)
Type Type of arm (RA7 / RA7SE / RA7SI)
Connected first Date and time of the first connection of the selected arm on
time on the computer.
Performance Level of equipment and accuracy of the arm (71 / 73 / 75)
level
Brand (Romer / Cimcore)
Volume Measurement volume of the arm in mm
Revision Version of arm
Advanced properties (deploy – Technician only)
Factory (Montoire / Oceanside)
Assembly ID
Version Version of arm (see the arm manual for details)
Components (deploy)
Component set Steps of the history of arm : each time the hardware or
firmware of one component is changed, a new set is made.
Type, address … Properties of each electronic component of the arm
For more details about the components properties, refer to the RDS Engineer manual.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 88

RDS Toolbox Vault – secured area
E. RDS TOOLBOX VAULT – SECURED AREA E

RDS Toolbox contains a security system that permits to create security packages in a Vault.
This system permits do save calibration data, certifications or calibration measurement (from RDS
Data Collector), but also all the survey indicators memory (SMART) into such packages.
Those packages are in a first step stored locally on the computer, in order to be sent to the
Hexagon Metrology Portable Arms server (Hexagon Server Database) through an internet
connection. The synchronization of the data is automatic, no set-up to do.
In return, packages are available for downloaded from the HEXAGON SERVER to a local
computer. The vault of RDS Toolbox displays so the list of available packages for all the local
arms. For that, the arm has to be added in the list of the available arms, then all the packages of
this arm become available (but downloaded only when necessary).
To access, from the main menu of RDS Toolbox, click on the Vault tile
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 89

E.1 Vault screen description E

Some items may be available only for Technician profile. Please refer to the Engineer
manual.
When entering the vault, RDS toolbox shows the list of all the packages for the available arms. All
the packages are grouped by arm.
By default, only the local arms (connected or off-line) are displayed. And only the selected arm is
deployed.
However the technician profile ( ) gives the possibility to add any distant arm in the list of the
vault.
2 4
1. Header of the list – filters by column

2. Action buttons
3. List of available packages grouped by arm
4. Search filter (Ctrl+F) for available arms
 Columns description
Item Description
Serial Number Serial number of the arm in the package
Date time Date and time of creation of the package
Type Type of package (Armspecs / Certification / Profile / Diagnosis …see after)
Comment Comment entered at the creation of the package
Local status Shows if the package is present or not locally on the computer: if not on the
disk, RDS Toolbox simply notifies that the package is available on HEXAGON
SERVER and can be downloaded. The package is downloaded only is
necessary.
Action status Notification about the packages locally present on the computer (Downloaded /
Created / Synchronized…)
Online status Only displayed when RDS Toolbox is online.

Shows if the package is available or not on HEXAGON SERVER database
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 90

 Buttons description E
Button Description
Refresh Refreshes the current list of packages for all the current arms
Package Gives details about the package ID and location ( = right click on
information the package line)
Add Arm
Remove Arm Used to remove manually the selected package from the list.
Download Download the selected package locally on the computer
Backup Create a backup of the memory of the connected arm
Restore Restore the memory of the arm with the selected package
Extract Extract the content of the package into RDS Data Collector
content environment.
Open Report Opens the certification report
Switch to Switch RDS Toolbox in Database mode with the selected Dataset
Smart package
database
Upload Does a manual upload of the SMART dataset to the Hexagon
SMART Server (on the request of a hexagon technician)
dataset
Dump Retrieve and compress the local SMART dataset and main Log
SMART files to a zip file, which can be sent to a Service centre.
dataset
Open SMART Opens a SMART dataset (from a direct SMD dataset file or from a
dataset zip file)
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 91

E.2 Types of packages E

A package (extension *.pck) is a group of files that can be backup, stored, uploaded, downloaded,
restored. It can contain calibration data, armspecs, … for any maintenance purpose.
The Memory of the arm is composed by 2 blocks :

- A UserSpecs block (default used data)
- A Backup specs block (Last Service Center calibration data)
In case the UserSpecs block is damaged or not readable, RDS will try to use the
Backup specs (and will prompt a warning).
In case of wrong operation on the UserSpecs, the BackUpSpecs can be restored into
the UserSpecs block, and restore the memory at it was after the last calibration by the
Service Center.
If the complete memory is damaged, it is possible to download the package and
restore it.
Code Icon Type Description
Cal Calibration RDS Data Collector Raw data

+ Armspecs
Ce Certification RDS Data Collector Raw data

+ Armspecs
Op Optimization RDS Data Collector Raw data

+ Armspecs
Bk Backup
Backup specs block of the arm
Pr TuneUp / Profile
Fa Factory specs
Original Backup + User specs blocks
Di Diagnosis RDS Toolbox axes signal
Tc Temp
compensation
Sm SMART Data set All SMART indicators for one period.
: all users / : Technicians only
Some other types of packages can be used only in Calibration profile. Please refer to
the RDS Engineer manual.
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 Backup package E
A backup package is only manually created by the user in RDS Toolbox through the vault tab. It
can be created at any moment, by end-user or by calibration profile.
A backup package contains only the backup specs blob of the arm memory.
 Diagnosis package
A diagnosis package is generated by RDS Toolbox when the user when the user run “Analyse
sensor signal” function (end-user or calibration), or “Analyse sensor signals (Advanced)” function
(only calibration).
A diagnosis package contains the necessary data about one axis electronic signal, to search a
potential dysfunction.
 SMART Data set package

The SMART Data set packages can be considered as a complete backup of the whole system
(Arms+computers) for a defined period. It may contain all the survey information for the arm.
It means that SMART collects data from the arm and from the computer. On a first step, the data
are store on the memory of the arm and on the computer, then after the synchronization with the
Hexagon Server, all the data concerning the arm (that may come from several computers) are
merged into a SMART DATA SET package. One SMART DATA SET package refers to a period;
Once the current SMART DATA SET package has reached a maximum size, a new package is
automatically created, to collect new SMART data.
It means that for one arm, several SMART DATA SET Packages may be available, one per a
certain period.
Content
Period Depending on the quantity of information
Arm concerned Only the selected arm
Computer The package may contain information from several computers if the arm
information has been connected to several ones.
Arm information All the SMART indicators
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E.3 Status and information of a package E

E.3.1 Action status
Each package has a status flag .When a package is created on the vault, a “Not synchronized”
status is given, until RDS automatically send it through internet. Then the status switches to
“Synchronized”.
Local status Explanation

The package is available online, but is not currently downloaded. To be able
Not on disk to use it, it must be downloaded.
The package is currently on the local computer (downloaded or created on
On Disk the computer) and can be used.
Online status Explanation

The package is ready to be downloaded.
Available
Not online
Action status Explanation

The package has been successfully downloaded and can be used.
downloaded
The created package has been successfully uploaded to Hexagon Server
uploaded
Last try to download / upload failed
error
download / upload
Local status Action status Online status Explanation

The arm has been added to the list, and the
Not on disk Available package is available for download to be
used.
The package has been created on the
On Disk uploaded Not on line computer, and has been successfully
synchronized with HEXAGON SERVER but
has not been yet implemented.
The package has been created on the
On Disk uploaded Available computer, synchronized with HEXAGON
SERVER and implemented for availability.
The package has been successfully
On Disk downloaded Available downloaded from HEXAGON SERVER, and
is currently ready to be used locally.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 94

E.3.2 Information of the package

The identification number and the location of the file can be retrieved from the vault :
E
- Select the package Or - Do a right click on the package
-
- use the Information action button
A PopUp appears above the package line :
Depending on the type of package and its Local status, the following information can be found :
Package information (all packages)
Package Identification number of the package
name
File size
Locate on When clicking on this line, a link to the folder becomes available
disk
: opens the browser on the Vault folder and pre-selects the
package file
Calibration report (Calibration packages)

Opens the complete calibration report text file
spat, min, …. Mean, min and max values for the spatial errors.
rep, min, …. Mean, min and max values for the repeatability errors.
stat, min, …. Mean, min and max values for the static errors.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 95

E.4 Create and synchronize a Package E

A package can be created from several operations, depending on its nature.
E.4.1 Manual backup
 Armspecs Backup
This manual operation can be used at any moment to make a security backup of the arm, in order
to restore later the arm in the same configuration.
- Ensure first that the arm is correctly connected
- Click on the Backup button
- At the prompt, enter a comment
- Press OK: the new “Backup” package appears in the list.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 96

E.4.2 Other automatic packages

E
 Calibration, Certification, Optimization and Tune-up / Profile packages
A calibration package (and certification, Optimization,…) is generated automatically by RDS Data
Collector, at the end of a script. Once the calculation or the certification is finished, RDS Data
Collector is asking the user if a package has to be created or not. A comment is also asked.
 Diagnosis package
A diagnosis package is generated by RDS Toolbox when the user runs “Analyse sensor signal”
function, or “Analyse sensor signals (Advanced)” function (only calibration).
 SMART Data set package

A SMART Data set package is automatically created periodically. It collects all the SMART
indicators and computer information for the concerned period. The Smart Dataset packages appear
only once the periodic set has been uploaded and implemented on the Hexagon Server.
E.4.3 Comment
When a package is created, RDS (Toolbox or Data Collector) may ask to add a comment to easily
identify the purpose of the package; this comment will be displayed in the list of packages.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 97

E.4.4 Synchronization
E
 Synchronization of the created packages
1. Once a package is created, it appears in the list on the vault as “On disk” in the Local status.
2. Forthwith RDS Toolbox tries to synchronize the package with HEXAGON SERVER database.
If the computer is connected on internet, RDS Toolbox uploads the package securely on
HEXAGON SERVER.
If no internet connection is available, the package is kept locally pending for a connection to
HEXAGON SERVER.
The package becomes notified as “Uploaded” in the Action status.
3. After a security check-out, the package becomes available (for any RDS Toolbox user on any
computer).
 Synchronization of the list of packages

When a new arm is added to the list of the vault (new connected arm or manually added distant
arm), RDS ToolBox automatically synchronizes the list of available packages with the Hexagon
Server.
In case of a synchronization issue, a “Refresh” button ( ) permits a new manual synchronization.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 98

E.5 Download a Package from HEXAGON SERVER E

E.5.1 Listed Arms - refresh
In End-User Profile, only the packages of the local arms can be seen and used.
Once the Vault panel opened, the list of packages for the available arms is synchronized and
displayed.
(The packages are available but not locally downloaded).
 Refresh the vault

The list of packages of an arm may get newer items (new calibrations, new periodic SMART Data
sets …). Thus the list in RDS Toolbox needs to be updated. This operation is normally done
automatically, however, if a new package has just been synchronized from another computer, it is
possible to refresh manually the list, to make the new package online available.
This can be used as well if a package has been removed from the local list.
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E.5.2 Download a package

E
To be used, a package needs to be “Locally On disk”. It means that the package needs to be
downloaded from the HEXAGON SERVER if it is not yet on the computer.
Once the package is downloaded, it stays available On disk even if the computer is no
more connected to HEXAGON SERVER.
Select the package
click on “Download”
Download
or
Double click on the package
2x
Its status becomes

Date time Type Comment Local status Action status Online status
{Date} {type} {Comment} On disk Downloaded Available
And the package becomes locally available to be used.
Several packages can be downloaded at the same time.
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E.6 Use a Package E

The purpose of the packages is to be able to reproduce a previous situation to analyse, or safely
restore a status of the arm…
Depending on the profile, usage are available or not :
Button
Refresh Restore
Package Extract content

information
Add Arm Analyse a diagnosis
package
Remove Arm Open Report
Download Switch to Smart

database
Backup Close
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E.6.1 Display the information – get the package

E
RDS Toolbox can display the information of any package in the vault, whatever it is “On disk” or
not.
Moreover for the “On Disk” packages, a button gives a direct access to the location folder of the
packages files, so that it is possible to get back the package file, and send it by E-Mail in case the
computer cannot be connected to internet.
The vault folder can be accessed also directly on

C:\Users\Public\Documents\Romer\RDS\Vault.
Select the package
click on “Package Information”
or
Do a right click on the package
RDS Toolbox displays a window, that contains the following information :
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 102

E.6.2 Restore the Armdata

If an error has been done on a calibration, or a trouble, it is possible to restore a previous status of
E
the memory of the arm. Any package contains the Armdata memory of the arm.
Select the package that contains the desired Armdata status
Click on “Restore” button

Restore
If the package doesn’t fit with the arm (the structure of the arm doesn’t fit with the
armdata), RDS Toolbox displays a message.
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E.6.3 Analyse a diagnose package (Technician profile only)

When a sensor analysis process has been done to check the signal of an encoder (end user or
E
advanced), a package is created. To view the result signal of the encoder, a Technician profile is
necessary with a valid feature code.
Select a diagnosis package
Download the Package
Download
Click on “Diagnose”
Diagnose
RDS Toolbox opens the Analyse window with the graphics of the Sensor
signals. (See the “Analyse sensor” chapter on the Engineer manual).
Only one “Diagnosis” package can be selected.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 104

E.7 Remove a package / an arm E

 Periodic package removals
By default the packages “On disk” are automatically removed from the computer after 2 weeks. But
they still remain available in the list of the vault.
Local status Action status Online status
On disk Downloaded Available
2 weeks later :
Local status Action status Online status
Not on disk Available
Packages are only removed from the local computer, not from HEXAGON SERVER
data base
 Manually remove an arm

To clean the list of packages in the Vault, a distant arm can be manually removed from the list.
Select the package to remove
Click on “Remove arm”.

Remove
A local arm (connected or offline) cannot be removed from the list. RDS automatically
removes it periodically if the arm hasn’t been connected during the period.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 105

E.8 SMART Dataset manual Upload E

NOTICE
A manual upload should be done only on the request of a Hexagon Metrology technician
In a standard way, RDS Toolbox automatically uploads the SMART dataset flow once a day.
However, on the request of a Hexagon Metrology technician, for a specific survey or diagnosis
purpose, it may be necessary to provide the dataset to the technician
- By uploading prematurely the SMART dataset flow
- By creating a virtual image of the local SMART dataset into a zip file
E.8.1 Manual upload of SMART Dataset

The period of synchronization (upload) of the SMART dataset to the Hexagon Server is 24h.
If an issue occurs, the Technician of the Hexagon Service center may have the need to investigate
the situation and then to be able to consult the SMART dataset package before the term of 24 h.
An action button is available in the Vault panel to anticipate this periodic synchronization.
- Enter the Vault and click on the action button “Extract and upload SMART dataset”
- Then the SMART dataset is sent to the Hexagon Server.
When uploading manually, the automatic daily synchronization is anticipated and the
current time is set as the new daily upload time
To avoid overloading the Hexagon Server activity, a minimum delay of 10 mn is set

between 2 successive uploads.
E.8.2 Dump SMART Dataset
In case the computer cannot be connected to internet (no available connection, IT policy, …), the
SMART Dataset can still be sent by E-Mail, within a zip file.
- Enter the vault and click on the action button “dump SMART Dataset and Log file”
- Confirm the creation by clicking on “Yes”

- Then a zip file is created on “Public documents\ROMER\RDS\Temp” and the folder is open,
pointing on the created file.
The dump file contains the following data :

current.smd Content of the whole local SMART dataset (including all the local arms)
Rds.log Log files that can help the investigations
RDSLocalDBDLL.log
RDSToolbox.log
RDSTOolboxDLL.log
- Copy the dump file on a removable support (USB memory, CD, …) and send the file to the
Hexagon Metrology technician.
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E.8.3 Open a SMART Dataset

To be able to read a SMART dataset (from a dump file for example), a button is available in the
E
vault :
- Unzip the dump file
- Enter the Vault and click on the action button “Open SMART dataset”
- RDS Toolbox then switches in a “SMART dataset” mode (see SMART chapter) to simulate the
distant computer.
- All the SMART information of the arms on the distant computer can be displayed and analyzed.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 107

E.9 Quick vault guide E

E.9.1 How to … find a package
 With a keyword
1. Open RDS Toolbox
2. Select “Vault”
3. In the search window (Ctrl+F), type key words (e.g.: arm S/N, type of package, comment,
date…)
4. RDS Toolbox automatically reduces the list to the packages that contain the keywords,
highlighting them..
 With a filter
1. Open RDS Toolbox
3. On the header of the column where to apply a filter, click on the filter icon
Type
4. Select the desired value (or choose “Custom for advanced filter)
5. RDS Toolbox automatically reduces the list to the packages that fits with the filter.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 108

E.9.2 How to … get a package file

E
In a standard way (computer connected to internet), when a package is created, it is immediately
uploaded to the Hexagon Server, and becomes available for a service aim.
In case the computer cannot be connected to internet, the package can be get back as a file, to be
send to a Service Center by E-Mail.
1. Select the package
2. Download it
3. Use the Information action button
4. In the information window, notice the package identification name
5. Select the line “Locate on disk” and click on the magnifying glass
6. In the opened browse window, select the package with its identification name and copy it on a
removable support.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 109

E.9.3 How to … save the Armdata

1. Connect the arm to RDS through USB.
E
2. Open RDS Toolbox
4. Click on “Backup”
5. Enter a comment
6. Press OK
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E.9.4 How to … restore the Armdata

1. Connect the arm to RDS through USB.
E
2. Open RDS Toolbox

4. In the list of packages, select the package to restore (Backup, Calibration, Certification)
If the arm is not present in the list, Technician profile is necessary :
- Click on “Add An arm”
- Enter the serial number
- Click on “Search for”
- Select the wanted arm
-
- Click on “Pick out”
5. Click on “Download”
6. Click on “Restore”
7. Restart the arm
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 111

SMART
F. SMART F
F.1 Presentation
RDS Toolbox contains an interface for a “Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology” on
the arm (SMART) : it is checking the global status of the arm, connection and its components
through several indicators on the system.
RDS Toolbox collects all the SMART information every time an arm is connected to the computer.
Thus it is possible to have a look on the detailed status of all the previously connected arms
(including currently connected one) and components. This includes several indicators and possible
alerts if some indicators overpass specified limits.
Several indicators get information from sensors on the arm; even when the arm is not connected,
the sensors collect data. The data are synchronized with HEXAGON SERVER through the
computer (SMART Data set packages) as soon as the arm is connected to the computer.
With this tool it is possible to survey the arm and prevent from potential damages.
Arm 1 Arm 2 ... .
Collects Arms + Computer+ connection indicators HEXAGON

SERVER
Analyse the indicators SMART Data set sorting
Create and display alerts
HEXAGON
SERVER
Local SMART memory: Database
Local arms Distant arms through
(connected and off-line) SMART Data set
packages
Local mode Database mode
View Alerts
View statistics
Analyse indicators
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F.2 Communication with the Hexagon Server F

By default, when installing RDS, SMART establishes automatically the communication with the
Hexagon Server, to send SMART data and receive news.
It is possible to deactivate this communication, as well as the popups. Refer to the RDS Control
Panel chapter B.4 SMART.
The whole SMART Data flow stored on the computer is uploaded automatically once a day,
however, it is possible to upload manually. Al so if the computer cannot be connected to internet, at
the request of a Hexagon Metrology engineer, it is possible to create a manual zip file that can be
sent to the Hexagon Service Centre.
For the manual upload and zip file creation, please refer to chapter § Vault
F.3 Arm selection: 2 possibilities

F.3.1 Local arm - Standard mode
By default provides the survey of all the arms that have been connected to the computer. This is
the standard mode that uses the local memory.
 Connected arm
RDS Toolbox collects SMART indicators and information any time an arm is connected to the
computer. All the previous SMART data in the memory of the arm are downloaded onto RDS
Toolbox. Then, the data are periodically synchronized with HEXAGON SERVER.
The SMART information from the currently connected arm is then directly accessible.
By default, SMART tile gives access to the current arm.
 Off-line arms
As RDS Toolbox collects and keep in memory all the SMART indicators of each arm that has been
connected to the computer, it means that not only the currently connected arm can be surveyed,
but also all the previously connected arms.
In fact there is no difference between the connected arm or an Off-line arm, both are local arms.
To select the arm to survey, use the Arm selection button on top right of the screen.
The selection of the arm can be done before or after the selection of the SMART tile.
To survey old SMART Dataset, it becomes necessary to download and use the
corresponding SMART package. See next chapter.
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F.3.2 Local and Distant arm - Database mode

F
To survey a local arm (connected or Off-line) at a previous period than the available dataset, it is
possible to use SMART packages.
By the same way as local arms, it is possible to survey a distant arm that has never been
connected to the computer, by adding it in the Vault list and downloading SMART Data set
packages (Technician profile only).
All the SMART Data set packages are used through a separate “Database mode” : RDS ToolBox
switches from the standard “Live” mode to a SMART Package Database.
By using the Database Mode, all the SMART Data set Packages “On Disk” can be surveyed.
Simply select the SMART Data set Package and click on “Use database”.
A prompt is asking you for confirming the use of the selected database : answer “Yes”
Then RDS Toolbox switches into ta “Database Mode” : RDS Toolbox doesn’t use anymore the
local memory, but only the database coming from the SMART Data set package.
Local SMART memory:

Connected and off-line Distant arms through
arm SMART Data set
packages
Local mode Database mode
Then a toggle appears at the top of RDS Toolbox panel to switch back to the standard local mode :
move it to the right to return to the standard mode.
SMART Database activated
In the Database mode, only the SMART functions are available. Switch back to the
standard local mode to enable the other tiles.
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F.4 SMART Overview panel F

 SMART Tile
In case of any important alert regarding any of the arms in the memory of the
computer, notifications will be displayed alternatively on the SMART Tile itself.
- Click on the Tile to open the SMART Overview Panel.

- Select the arm to survey
To survey a distant arm, before opening the SMART panel, open the Vault panel,
download the SMART Data set package of the arm for the desired period, and click on
“Use the database”.
The overview panel of SMART appears: it shows a global graphic view of all the components of the
system, and some statistics and information about the status and use of the system.
2
4
1 Database mode Reminds that the database mode is used.

Arm selection - Local mode : Permits to select which arm
(connected or Off-line) in the local mode to survey
- Database mode: reminds which arm is displayed.
2 Components Shows each component and highlight whether they
graphic view are OK (green) or not (red).
3 Global status of the Shows very quickly if the system is OK of if one

/ system component requires an attention.
4 SMART status Shows if SMART functionality is activated.
5 Statistics area Several indicative statistics or short description of
the alert on one component
6 Display alerts Opens the list of alerts for the selected arm
7 Analyze indicators Opens the indicators screen for the selected arm.
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F.4.1 SMART components graphic view

The graphic view of the arm and accessories allows quickly locating an issue on one component.
F
In a normal situation without any alert, each component is slowly flashing green.
If RDS Toolbox gets a SMART alert from the system, the concerned component is shown red
In the present case, 2 warnings are shown : the C axis and the Target
(=accuracy).
 By pointing the component

The description of the component and its status is displayed on it
On a green component On a red component
Component is working properly Component presents an alert
 By clicking on a component
Some statistics (for green components) or the alert(s) (for red component) related to the
component are displayed in the statistics area.
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F.4.2 SMART Overview components description

F
In the SMART overview, a sample of typical statistics can be displayed, depending on the selected
component.
If an indicator of one component gets out of its limits, an alert is generated and displayed in the
same statistics area instead of the statistics.
A complete list of statistics can be consulted through the “analyze Indicators” button.
Example of statistics
No
selection
Accuracy Time since last calibration
Computer
Comm_Link Times and duration of connection
Comm_USB Times and duration of connection

Count of errors
Comm_Wi-
Fi
Feature Battery level
Pack
Arm Base Duration of use

Temperature of the base
A encoder Encoders temperatures
B Encoder
C encoder
D encoder
E encoder
F encoder
G encoder
Wrist
Probe Movement of the probe
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F.5 Alerts F
Once the SMART indicators are collected, RDS Toolbox compares the values to warning and
critical limits.
As soon as one SMART indicator exceeds a limit, an alert is generated and shown by RDS itself.
Then several actions are operated:
On the screen of - A notification of the alert is displayed regularly on the bottom right of the
the computer screen
On the Home panel - The alert is displayed on the SMART tile itself
of RDS Toolbox
On the SMART - The faulty component becomes red
Overview panel
- The global status icon switches to
- A short description of the alert is displayed when clicking on the faulty
component
On the SMART - The description of the alert is added to the list of active alerts.
Alerts panel
 Purpose of an alert
The aim is to warn the user that a problem occurs, a component may be damaged or may be
about to be damaged. In any case, an alert must be checked to avoid a major issue.
It can be also a reminder for a late operation (too old calibration for example).
 What to do when an alert is generated

When an alert is generated, a notification is displayed several times, in sort of ensure that the user
can see it. In case it has not been seen, the user can still check in SMART Overview Panel the
status of the arm.
In any case, it is important to display the description of the alert, to see the criticity, and get a
suggestion to solve it.
Depending on the criticity and the impact of the issue, several solutions:
- The alert can be postponed if the arm still needs to be used, but the user wants to be reminded.
- The alert can be validated, if the problem is minor, and doesn’t represent a real danger, or if the
problem has been solved.
- The faulty component can be analyzed in details, to diagnose.
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F.5.1 Alert notifications

As soon as RDS generates an alert, a notification is displayed on the bottom right of the screen :
F
Click on the alert to view the details in the SMART Alerts panel.
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SMART
F.5.2 SMART Alerts panel

By opening on a notification or through RDS Toolbox > SMART > Display alerts (and select the
F
arm), the list of all the alerts concerning the selected arm appears:
Active alert Button to sort or filter the list by the active or validated status of the alert
Alert ID Identification number of the alert
Triggered on Data and time of the alert
Impacted Arm
Criticity (Minor / Major / Critical) : importance of the alert. Critical alerts appear in
red.
Problem description Short description
Occurrences Number of times
Acknowledge on Date and time of validation of an alert
Button to open the full details of the selected alert
View alert
Close this panel and return to the SMART overview panel.
close
The “Warning” criticity does not generate an “alert” (no notification or alert in the
SMART overview panel).
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F.5.3 Alert details

To view the details of one alert, select the alert and click on “View alert” or double click on the alert.
F
From the SMART overview panel, a click on a faulty component displays the list of
alerts on the selected component, and then a click on one alert directly opens the
details of the selected alert.
 Information
Triggered on Date and time of the generation of the alert
Impacted Arm Identification of the arm implied by the problem
Indicator Exact SMART indicator of the faulty component - name and

description
Problem Description and values of the indicator error.
description
Criticity Minor / Major / Critical
Suggested Suggestion of checking, repair, contact… to try to solve or avoid the

solution problem.
Acknowledged Date and time of the validation of the alert
on
 Actions
Acknowledge : (for active alerts) once the problem is solved, repaired,

or to dismiss the alert, button to validate the alert.
Analyze : To go deeper in the analyse of the problem, access to all the
SMART indicators, graphs, and values.
Postpone : (for active alerts) button to keep a survey on the indicator.
The alert is changed to standby mode, during a certain time the
notification is hanged up.
Close : (for Acknowledge alerts) used to close the Alert details panel.
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F.6 Analyze Indicators F

SMART monitoring is composed by several indicators about all the components of the arm,
connection, computer, use of the system, or accuracy. The global status of those components is
graphically displayed in the SMART overview screen. To go deeper in the analyse of those
indicators, a complete panel provides the display of one or several SMART indicators, their current
values and time graph. To give the best possibilities, the display is customizable.
From the SMART overview panel, or from the details of an alert, click on “Analyze indicators” .
Analyze
From SMART Overview, Analyze panel opens automatically the templates tab.
From Alerts details, Analyze panel automatically focuses on the faulty indicator.
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F.6.1 Description of the panel

F
1
4a
4b
1. User tabs :
Templates Displays the saved templates to use them
Available Displays the list of all the available indicators and details to add the
chart manually
Displayed Shows the current indicators used in a chart
2. Content of the tab
3. Action line
4. a. Chart 1 … Up to 4 charts can be displayed
b. Chart 2
5. Zoom Graphic control of the time range
Actions
Adds the current indicators selection on a new chart (up to 4 charts)
Adds the current indicators selection on the existing chart Nb1 / 2 / 3 or 4
Displays all the alerts on the charts
Displays all the events on the impacted chart
Exports the values of each graph into a separate excel file
Saves the current workspace as a new template
Removes all the charts and clear all the workspace
Refits the charts to the entire time range
Closes the panel and goes back to SMART Overview panel
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F.6.2 Use a template

When arriving in the SMART analysis panel, templates are proposed.
F
1
When installed, RDS Toolbox provides default predefined templates, which represent useful
indicators.
To use them, simply select the tab “Templates” (1) and click on the graph to display (2).
If one or several graphs were already displayed, the whole view is overwritten with the
new graph from the template.
It is possible to get more templates. Ask your Service center.
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SMART
F.6.3 Select an indicator

Select the Available tab to display the list of indicators. The list can be reduced or deployed by
F
clicking on each expand button. ( )
As soon as one indicator is selected, its details appear below the list :
Deploy the group Click on the indicator
The search by keyword function can be used with Ctrl+F.(click first on the header of
the column).
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F.6.4 Details of an indicator

The details zone gives descriptions about the selected indicator.
F
 Descriptions
 Type of indicator
Several type of indicators may be found
Default
Type
Chart
Counter Bar A counter evaluates a number of occurrences or a distance.
A counter is increased only each time the SMART sensor is

actuated.
The name usually ends by “Count”
The last value (details zone) represents the overall total.
The chart can represent sub totals per hour, per day per month.
The chart may also represent the overall total evolution (Period
time = “None”)
Time counter Bar A Time counter evaluates a duration.
A Time counter is increased in real time as soon as the

SMART sensor is active.
The name usually ends by “Time”
The last value (details zone) represents the overall total.
The chart can represent sub totals per hour, per day per month.
The chart may also represent the overall total evolution (Period
time = “None”)
Immediate Line An immediate indicator evaluates an instant value that can be
measured at any moment : a temperature, a size, a voltage, a
value (calibration result), a percentage (of loading)…
An immediate value is automatically periodically measured by

the SMART sensors.
Event Line An event memorizes specific unexpected or abnormal
occurences (shocks…)
An event is memorized only when the occurrence occurs,
when one sensor exceed a limit.
The name usually ends by “Time”
On demand Line
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 Indicator index
Some indicators may provide not only one value but several indexes. F
Indexes of an indicator may concern encoders indexes, probes indexes, …
In such cases, several indexes can be selected and displayed at the same time (using Ctrl or 
keys).
For example the indicator “Enc_BoardTemperature” provides one value for each encoder.
Only A is selected, the graph shows only
one curve
A, B, C, D, E and F are all selected, the

graph shows 6 curves.
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F.6.5 Type of charts

F
Different kinds of graphs can be chosen : all are based on the points of the indicators, the
difference is located on the way to link them.
Bar Pikes are displayed only on the points of the graph.
This is useful for indicators to show abnormal
occurrence such as shocks.
Line All the points are linked by a straight segment.

This is the typical way to represent immediate values
(temperatures for example).
Area Area is based on the Line chart, but all the area under
the line is filled.
It is useful to better see the graph,
but not recommended for multiple
lines on same graph.
Step line All the points are linked through steps.
This is more convenient for counters and time
counters.
Step area As for Area based on Line, Step area is based on

Step line, and the field under the steps is filled.
Here again the purpose is to better see the graph, but
it is not advised for multiple steps on same graph.
Spline
Spline area
Point Point chart is the basic mode, the points are simply
displayed as dots and not linked.
Several types can be displayed on the same graph by

adding them one by one on an existing graph
The Range graph is always displayed as “Line”.
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F.6.6 Period time (counters only)

F
For the counters and the time counters, the values can be displayed per period.
None The graph shows the complete incrementing of
the indicator in real time.
(Bar graph)
Hour The graph shows the total counter value per hour
Day The graph shows the total counter value per day
(Step area graph)

Month The graph shows the total counter value per
month
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F.6.7 Add an indicator on a chart

F
To analyse an indicator, it must be added on a chart, either a new or existing one.
 Preliminary selections
Before any display, the following selections or settings are necessary:
1. In the Available tab, select the wanted indicator
2. In the details of the indicator, select one or several indexes
3. For counters, choose the period time
4. Choose the type of chart
 Display the chart

Once the preliminary choice is done, add the selected indicator :
- On a new chart
- On an existing chart
It is possible to add an indicator to an existing chart only if the type of graph is the
same.
Then the graph is displayed
On the right side, the “Available” tab is replaced by the list of indicators on each chart.
It is possible to add an indicator to a new chart by double clicking on it.
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F.6.8 Display a graph – details

F
 “Displayed” tab
Once an indicator has been added to a chart, the tab switches to “Displayed” tab. This shows the
current charts and indicators.
As for the “Available” tab, the window is splitted :
List List of the charts and indicators : the colours of the charts and graphs are reminded
here
- A check box permits for each indicator to be hidden or displayed
- The list can be reduced or deployed
Details Details of the selected indicator : it reminds the description of the indicator and the
chart type and period.
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 Refine the time range

RDS Toolbox display the data for all the date and time range available in the memory. F
To reduce the time range, use the left and right cursors on the “Range” graph, or click on a position
to zoom on it.
Left cursor Move it to adjust the lower limit of
the graph.
Right cursor Move it to adjust the upper limit of

the graph.
Click on a position Click on a specific time position to

reduce and zoom the graph to this
position.
Translate the range To translate the time position,

- Pan the selection on the range
graph
- Use the horizontal lift at the
bottom of the chart
- Pan the chart itself
View all Refit the graph to all range
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 Zoom the chart

Moreover the available cursors to control the time range, the mouse wheel can be used to zoom F
the chart, on X and Y axis. Then the middle button (wheel button) can be used to pan the graph.
Mouse wheel
Zoom on X and Y axis scales on the pointer
location
Shift key + Pan Left button

Zoom in a box
Shift key + Left click

Zoom in on the pointer location
Alt key + Left click

Zoom out on the pointer location
Mouse middle button

Pan the zoom on X and Y axis
Action button
Refit to all the graph
 Check the values

Whatever one or several indicators are displayed on one or several graphs, to survey the graphs
values, just place the pointer over the graph at the desired time position. A line shows the current
position, and the nearest graph points are shown. A small window at the bottom right of the graphs
displays the values of all the graphs for the current position.
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 Display the alerts and events on the chart

Over the chart, it I possible to show the SMART alerts, and events, to get a better understanding of F
why the event occurred.
Displays the events All the events such as the start of a session, are displayed on all
the charts, to locate and do a link between the indicators that may
explain the cause of the alert.
Displays the alerts All the alerts notified for the current arm are displayed on the
chart, to locate it.
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F.6.9 Export the values

For the displayed charts, each indicator set of values can be exported into a separate Excel file.
F
1 2
3
1. Once the wanted charts displayed, click on “Export to

file”.
2. Select the column separator , (comma)
; (semicolon)
(tabulation)
3. Select or enter the file folder and name
4. Validate the export
The target folder is displayed, showing as many CSV-Excel files as number of indicators.
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F.7 Quick SMART guide F

F.7.1 Quick display: Use a template
Analyzing indicators can be done using templates. Default templates can be automatically
proposed and user templates can be created.
When entering the Analyze panel from the SMART Overview one, the template are automatically
displayed. Otherwise, click on the “Templates” tab
1. Template tab
2. List of templates
Select the wanted template, the graph(s) is (are) automatically displayed with the updated values.
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F.7.2 How to add an indicator diagram on a graph

1. Access the SMART analysis panel
F
2. In the list of available indicators, select the wanted item
3. In details zone, select the index(es) of the selected indicator (encoder index, probe index, …) :
4. In details zone, select the type of graph :
o Period time (None / Hour / Day / Month)

o Chart type (Bar / Area / Line / Step line / Step area / Spline / Spline area / Point)
5. Click on Display button and choose to add on a new graph or an existing one
6. On the Control of the time range, scroll the left and right sides to define the start and end time
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RDS Toolbox Maintenance
G. RDS TOOLBOX MAINTENANCE G

The maintenance tiles are hidden by default. Click on Maintenance tile to deploy all the tiles (the
number depends on the type of installation).
Opt°.
Tool to reprogram a probe
Panel to survey in real time the components of the

arm (encoders values, voltage, temperature,
buttons, boards…)
Customer tool to record an encoder signal on

demand of a Service Center engineer.
Tool to open or view in real time an encoder signal.
Tool to configure the Wi-Fi network
Tool to program a scanner (RSx)
Tool to program the electronic boards
Displays the RDS Toolbox Log file.
External tool to view and decode RDS and RDS

Toolbox Log files
: Technician profile only / : a valid RDS feature code is necessary
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G.1 Program a probe G

This panel has to be used to program or reprogram a probe in case of a programing problem: it
defines in its memory the type of probe (contact, diameter, non-contact, …).
The probes database is automatically updated as soon as the computer in connected to internet
(synchronization with HEXAGON SERVER database).
On first launch after the installation, the list of probes is empty, until the computer is
connected to internet to update it.
4
1
5
3
1 List of probes
2 Horizontal lift to scroll the probes
3 Action buttons Start programming process
4 Selected Probe program (highlighted red)

5 Search tool
This tool needs a USB connection. Wi-Fi connection not supported.
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G.1.1 Probe details

All the probes are described in a tile containing some information:
G
Name Complete name of the probe file. The name contains the necessary information :
- Tip diameter
- Tip material
- Type of probe
- Length of the probe
- Type of arm (Absolute / MultiGage)
- Angle (if not straight)
- Gender of TKJ
Picture
Part Number Refer to your catalogue to get the part number
Type Type of probe :
- Hard contact probe
- Tube non-contact probe
- Touch trigger Probe
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G.1.2 Find a probe

To find easily the correct probe, RDS Toolbox provides several options :
G
 Use the Search box (Ctrl+F)
This tool permits to reduce the list of probes with a research text.
Simply enter a part of the Name or the Part Number in the search box.
The list is automatically reduced to the search criteria.
Cancel the text filer
 Use the filters on the Probes tiles.

For each of the details on the probes tiles, tools are availabl to filter or sort the list by the selected
detail :
Move the pointer over one detail, two symbols appear :
Filter Click on it to reduce the list of probes to the selected type of detail.
Sort by Click on it to sort the list of probes by the selected type of detail (increasing).
Click a second time to reverse the order (decreasing)
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G.1.3 How to … program a probe

1. Connect the arm to the computer through USB
G
2. Plug the probe through the TKJ connector
3. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Program probe”.
4. In the list of probes, select the appropriate one

5. Click “Program probe” button.
6. Confirm the following question
7. RDS displays the information message :
8. Once the message is validate, the probe is added to the list of probes in the memory of the
arm, and the probe calibration is requested.
The probe programing affects the memory of the probe itself, not the memory of the
arm : if the probe was already in the memory of the arm, delete it to be recreated with
the new programming.
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G.2 Encoder analysis G

RDS Toolbox provides a tool to check the electronic signal of each encoder, in sort of detecting any
issue on it.
2 levels are available:
Customer Advanced
Profile
Record signal
Display signal
Live signal analyse
For Encoder analysis (advanced) function, please read the RDS Engineer manual.
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G.2.1 Encoder analysis (customer)

This function is designed to provide a customer (with RDS Standard installation) the ability to
G
record a sample of the electronic signals on one axis of the arm.
This has to be used on the request of a Hexagon Metrology service center when the arm seems to
have a problem on one axis.
1 Information about the process to follow

2 Start Start Button, to run the record process
3 Stop Abort button
4 Graphic view
5 Angle Live angle of the axis
Status Bits Number of errors of the signal (status bits errors)
Error Number of records / maximum amount of records
Shoots taken
The aim is to record the electronic signal of the encoder, on all the range of rotation of the axis. For
that, RDS Toolbox graphically helps the user to ensure that all the range of rotation is covered : the
range is divided in 12 sectors, and each sectors needs a minimum of 2 samples. As soon as the
12 sectors contain at least 2 samples, the recording automatically stops and an analysis package is
created in the vault and synchronized with HEXAGON SERVER, so that a Hexagon Metrology
service engineer can check if the signals are corrects or not.
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G.2.2 Process
1. Connect the arm to the computer
G
2. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Encoder analysis (customer)”.
3. Click on « Sart Process » button :
Start process
4. Select the axis on which the record has to be done
5. The record process starts: the graphic shows the number of samples that are taken on the
range of rotation of the axis.
6. The purpose is to rotate the desired axis on all its range, slowly enough to let RDS Toolbox to
record enough signal covering all the encoder: the complete range of rotation of the axis is
divided in a representation of 12 sections per complete range. RDS needs at least 2 samples
for each section. A maximum amount of records are permitted, unless the operation has to be
aborted and executed again.
Nb Samples
Current
position
Threshold
7. Rotate slowly the axis; yellow bars start to appear on the graph. Once the minimum number of
shoots is reached on one section, the bar becomes green. Continue to rotate slowly the axis
until all section bars are green.
8. Once all sections are completed, RDS Toolbox displays a message.
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Well done! The encoder coverage is OK.
Press OK and RDS Toolbox will retrieve some diagnosis information about your computer… G
OK
9. Click OK : RDS Toolbox retrieves information about the computer creates the package.
10. If the computer is connected to internet, let RDS Toolbox synchronize the package.
Otherwise, get back the file of the package (see “E. RDS Toolbox Vault – secured area” for the
folder location) and send it to the local Hexagon Metrology Service Center.
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G.3 Configure Wi-Fi Chipset G

The Wi-Fi network of the arms (Wi-Fi option for Multi Gage / Feature Pack option {FP2-FP3} for the
Romer Absolute arm) can be modified, in order to follow customer’s specifications for Wi-Fi, to
improve the efficiency by changing the channel, or enhance the security by using a Wep key.
Here are all the possibilities that can be used and setup through RDS ArmAid :
Available feature Default value Change Chipset
Get Configuration - This only collects the chipset and
write it in the RDS.Log file
Channel Auto - Auto
- Manual : 1 > 14
SSID “T-UN-FF” - Free
T : type of Feature Pack
UN : serial number of the Feature Pack
FF : Factory
IP @ 192.168.0.3 - Free
Sub net mask Auto No
WEP None 64 Bits Wep key (5 char)
128 Bits Wep key (13 char)
Depending on the change to apply on the Wi-Fi chipset, several configuration files can be used :
Get WPA - WPA2-
SSID Chanel Wep64 Wep128
Config TKIP AES
MG X
X X
x X X
X X X
FP2 X
X X
X X X
X X X
X X X
X X X
FP3 X
X X
On demand, specific chipset programing files can be created. Contact your local
Hexagon Metrology Service Center.
NOTICE
Ensure to select the appropriate file depending on the Hardware.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 147

G.3.1 Process
1. Establish the USB connection to the arm.
G
2. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Configure Wi-fi Chipset”.
3. Validate the information prompt (simply click on the window to close it)
4. Click on “Start”
5. In the browse window (on C:\Users\Public\Documents\Romer\RDS\FactorySpecs\Wi-Fi), select

the programing file to use and validate
- *.dp for Multi Gage Wi-Fi V1

- *.dp551 for Multi Gage Wi-Fi V2
- *.cb for Romer Absolute Arm (FP2 – FP3)
6. Enter the values for each feature and press “Commit”
7. Switch off then on again to reboot the arm with the new chipset.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 148

G.4 Upgrade of Integrated scanner (option) G

This panel is available only when a feature key is activated on the computer.
The feature key is usually linked to the serial number of the scanner.
This tool can be used to reprogram the firmware of the integrated scanned (RS) of the Romer
Absolute arm SI.
 Requirements
- A valid feature code : as the code is linked with the serial number of the scanner, it may be
necessary to get and transmit it to your Hexagon Metrology reseller when ordering the upgrade :
please read the following paragraph to get the serial number
- The firmware file: This will be provided with the feature code.
To order the Feature code and the firmware file, please contact your local Hexagon
Metrology Service Center.
Always ensure that the requirements are respected according to the version of
Scanner (MotherBoard, EventBoard, PIC firmware …)
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 149

G.4.1 How to get a Feature Code for RSx Upgrade

1. Establish the USB connection to the arm, including the Ethernet connection to the scanner.
G
2. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Upgrade of Integrated scanner”.
Start process
RDS Toolbox is collecting information about the current status of the scanner :
Information about the scanner is displayed below :
S/N : 12.7.34
Firmware : v1.3.5 RS1 2010-11-17
Hardware : v1.3.3 RS1 2011-02-11 C25
PartID : 1
Do you want to upgrade its firmware ?
Yes No
S/N : serial number of the scanner

Firmware : current version and date of the firmware.
Hardware : version and date of the scanner hardware
Part ID : Identification of the probe
4. Click on No to exit.
5. Send this information to your Hexagon Metrology agent to order the feature code.
6. Once received, enter the feature code on RDS Control Panel
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 150

G.4.2 How to upgrade the firmware of the integrated scanner.

1. Establish the USB connection to the arm, including the Ethernet connection to the scanner.
G
2. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Upgrade of Integrated scanner”.
Start process
RDS Toolbox is collecting information about the current status of the scanner :
Information about the scanner is displayed below :
S/N : 12.7.34
Firmware : v1.3.5 RS1 2010-11-17
Hardware : v1.3.3 RS1 2011-02-11 C25
PartID : 1
Do you want to upgrade its firmware ?
YES No
S/N : serial number of the scanner

Firmware : current version and date of the firmware.
Hardware : version and date of the scanner hardware
Part ID : Identification of the probe
4. Click on Yes to upgrade (x2)

5. In the browse window, select the new firmware file
6. Once the scanner is upgraded, as prompted, restart the scanner to apply the changes.
7. In RDS Control Panel, Probes tab, remove the RSx probe (move the probe switch to the
contact probe location, then delete the scanner).
To correctly restart the scanner, shut down the arm and unplug the power cable
NOTICE
It is necessary to delete the existing RSx “probe” from the memory of the arm, in order to add it
again with the correct data.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 151

G.5 Upgrade of arm firmware G

This tool can be used to reprogram the firmware of an electronic board. It mainly concerns the
Mother board and at lower degree the Event board.
The mother board firmware should always up-to-date, as a new version is always compatible with
old boards.
Mother board *.iic
Check the latest version with your local Hexagon Metrology Service
Mother board PIC *.FW
Centre.
Event board *.FW
G.5.1 Check the versions of the electronic boards

1. Establish the USB connection to the arm.
2. Run RDS Toolbox and select “Run RDS ArmAid”.
3. Validate the information prompt (simply click on the window to close it)
4. Click on “Check Firmwares” to display the list of all the components of the arm.
Check Firmware
5. Check the list, check the versions or send the list to the Hexagon engineer.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 152

G.5.2 Upgrade the firmware

1. Proceed to a Check Firmware
G
2. Ensure that the upgrade is valid and click on “Firmware upgrade”
Upgrade Firmware
3. In the browse window, select the new firmware (*.iic or *.fw) and validate
You are going to upgrade one or several boards firmware.

Are you sure to continue?
Yes No
4. Wait until the end of the upgrade, then validate the message
Firmware upgrade successful
Ok
5. Switch off then on again to reboot the arm with the new firmware.
Please switch off/on the arm to apply changes
Ok
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 153

G.6 View logs G

Each event in RDS Toolbox is notified in a log file; thus it is possible to consult the list of the latest
events.
The events are classified by type and levels. For convenience, a default predefined filter is set
when opening the panel.
Item Default filter

1 Date Date and time (local) of the event Today
2 Type Type and criticity of event 1 = end-user event Normal 1
2 = end-user event Warning
3 = end-user event Critical
4 = Application event Normal
5 = Application event Warning
6 = Application event Critical
3 Level Level of details event (1 >10) 1
4 Message Description of the event itself
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 154

RDS Scanning Window
H. RDS SCANNING WINDOW H

As soon as a Hexagon or CMS scanner is detected on the Absolute arm, a window appears on the
screen
As RDS tools, RDS scanning window is always accessible, whatever a scanning software is used
or not.
It contains tools for settings and for help while digitizing.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 155

RDS Scanning Window
H.1 Description H
By default, the window is displayed minimized. Following information and options are available :
Item Description
Button to get access to scanner video settings
(RS1) Exposure management (Manual / Auto)

- Button to switch Manual / Automatic exposure modes (RS2 only)
/
- Displays the current exposure value.
Nb of points per stripe / total Nb of scanned points
Nb of scanned lines
“Sleep” mode / Stand by (“Live”) mode / Scanning (“Capture”) mode

/ /
Indicator bar graph showing how target is placed against scanner Z

field.
Only in capture mode
bar graph indicator telling to user if he is moving the arm too fast while
scanning. If the bar is out of range, RDS prevents getting points.
Information regarding the status, or warning message (move too fast,
lost stripes, …)
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 156

RDS Scanning Window
H.2 Minimum / Extended Window H

By the mouse, the window size can be modified:
Extended window can then be displayed : to the basic items, is added the video of the scanner.
Minimize the window in the task bar.
Switch the window to maximum size
Options are available with a right click on the RDS Scanning, in the task bar :
Restore (when the window is inactive) : place the window on the foreground
Move Moves the window on the screen: places the pointer at the top of the
window to move it.
Size Place automatically the pointer on the window to modify the size.
Minimize Minimizes the window in the task bar.
Resize Resizes the window with its largest size
Close (not active)
Always visible Always keeps the window on the foreground
Opacity Permits to control the transparency of the window.
H.3 Laser Power

For security reasons and to keep long life for laser the laser emitter, the laser is automatically
powered off:
- after some seconds of inactivity
- when the arm is let at its rest position
- as soon as the digitizing menu is leaved
Then in the RDS window, the capture status icon shows
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 157

RDS Extended features
I. RDS EXTENDED FEATURES I

I.1 RDS Icons
 RDS Status icon
Warning : Battery low
Arm connected, status is OK
Arm not connected
Arm connected – Warning message (Mechanical stop, no probe, …)
 RDS tools icons
RDS Control Panel Arm status
RDS Quick Measure About
RDS Data Collector RDS Video window for RSx
Access to probe calibration RDS Video window for CMS
Access to probe checking RDS ArmAid / RDS Toolbox
Reset of the arm RDS Logo
 Control Panel icons
Summary tab References tab
Connection tab Advanced settings tab
General parameters tab Access control tab
Profiles tab Features tab
CMS parameters tab Video capture tab
RSx parameters tab About tab
Probe tab Exit
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 158

I.2 RDS Menu I

At any moment it is possible to access to some functions of RDS, by doing a right click on RDS
icon in the task bar on the right bottom of the screen, RDS service menu appears then.
 RDS ToolBox
Opens the RDS Toolbox Panel
 RDS Control Panel

Gives access to RDS control Panel to configure the arm
 Quick Measure
Gives access to RDS tool for simple measurements
 RDS Data Collector

Gives access to RDS Data Collector to do calibration, verifications and other scripts (see RDS Data
Collector Manual)
 Calibrate current probe

Enters automatically in RDS Data Collector and automatically execute the appropriate script for the
mounted probe. (see RDS Data Collector Manual)
 Check current probe

Enters automatically in RDS Data Collector and automatically execute the appropriate script for the
mounted probe. (see RDS Data Collector Manual)
 Reset (Multi Gage / Infinite / Stinger)

Re-execute the reset of the axes of the arm.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 159

 Display arm status

Shows a status windows of the arm : I
The information that is displayed is:

Information Description Possible values
Arm Type Type of Arm and of connection NCA USB

Infinite, Stinger Wi-Fi
Probe Current probe Name of the current probe
Status Information area (connection errors, encoder Connected

limit… Connecting….
Warning! An encoder is over

limit!
No probe, …
Position Coordinates of the center of the probe due to X, Y, Z coordinates in mm

arm reference (see ABSOLUTE ARM Manual)
Temperature Temperature measured by the arm (only when Temperature in degree

a temperature sensor is available)
Battery Battery level Power Supply

Low battery
Level in %
Clients conn. Number of software currently using the arm Number of software
through RDS
Rate Frequency of reading of the arm. Frequency
Reference Position of the arm in case of VPS, LOK or position

LeapFrog
 About
Displays the installed version of RDS
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 160

RDS Quick Measure
J. RDS QUICK MEASURE J

RDS Quick measure is a little tool to allow the user to very quickly measure simple dimensions :
3
4
5
1. Exit Quick Measure tool

2. Available features to measure
3. Access to probe calibration (see RDS Data collector manual)
4. Choose the units (mm / inch)
5. Access to RDS Control Panel
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 161

RDS Quick Measure
J.1 How to do a quick measure J

J.1.1 Description of the measurement window
3
8
4
9
7
10
1 Type of measurement
2 Real time coordinates of the probe
3 Coordinates of the last probed point
4 Number of taken points : this must be at least equal to the minimum before validate the
element.
5 Minimum number of points
6 Instructions to follow
7 Reminder of the buttons functions
8 Mounted probe specifications
9 Validate the measured element ( = yellow BP2) or exit this menu
10 Cancel : delete last probed point

OK : validate the element
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 162

RDS Quick Measure
J.1.2 Measurement procedure J

Access to Quick Measure
Select the desired measurement
Follow the instructions
Hit the points (respect the required number of points) for

each feature
validate each measured feature (except single point)
After last measurement, the result is displayed
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 163

RDS Quick Measure
J.2 Available features J

J.2.1 Dimensions
Min Nb of
Icon Measurement Features to measure
Pts
Diameter of a hole circle Plane (projection) 3
Circle 3
Width and length of a slot Plane 3

(projection)
Slot 6
(3 on each ½
circle)
Width and length of a rectangle Plane (projection) 3
Rectangle 5
(2 Pts on major
side, 1 on
others)
Diameter of a shaft circle Plane (projection) 3
Circle 3
J.2.2 Distances
Min Nb of
Pts
Distance between 2 single points (not Single point 1 (auto validation) 1
compensated)
Single point 2 (auto validation) 1
Distance between 2 planes Plane 1 3
Plane 2 3
Distance between 2 circles Plane 1 3

Circle 1 3
Plane 2 3
Circle 2 3
Distance between a line and a point Plane 1 (projection for line) 3
Line 2
Plane 2 (projection for point) 3
Single point (auto validation) 1
Distance between a plane and a Plane 1 3
circle
Plane 2 (projection for point) 3
Single point (auto validation) 1
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 164

RDS Quick Measure
J.2.3 Angles
J
Min Nb of
Pts
Angle between 2 planes Plane 1 3
Plane 2 3
Angle between 2 lines Plane 1 (projection for 3

line 1)
Line 1 2
Plane 2 (projection for 3
line 2)
Line 2 2
Angle between a plane and a line Plane 1 3
Plane 2 (projection for 3
line)
Line 2
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 165

Appendix
K. APPENDIX K
K.1 Custom Path installation
In case RDS installation path has to be different than the default one, it is possible to change it
during the installation : when "-choosedstpath" argument is set, user has the ability to override the
default destination path.
 Solution 1: Desktop shortcut.

1. Copy RDS installation files on the computer
2. Create a shortcut of “H###### RDS Installer V#.#.#.exe " on the computer’s desktop
3. Open the Shortcut properties
4. Edit the target line and add just after the exe” and a space “-choosedstpath”
 Solution 2: Execute command line.

1. Copy RDS installation files in the computer
2. Enter the Search function on the right side of the screen (“Start menu” for Windows7®) or
press .
3. Enter X\...\ H###### RDS Installer V#.#.#.exe” -choosedstpath (X is the location where the
software installation files have been copied).
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 166

Appendix
K.2 Registry K
In case of using RDS on a user profile, Registry needs to be open in writing
Location : HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Romer.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 167

Appendix
K.3 Firewalls K
As RDS Toolbox synchronizes data with the Hexagon Server, it requires a connection to internet.
Thus any firewall such as Windows Firewall has to allow RDS Toolbox to communicate through the
network.
The user should ensure that the active firewall gives RDS Toolbox the access to internet through
the network.
 Process for Windows firewall

At the end of the installation of RDS, Windows® firewall is requiring the authorization to let RDS
Toolbox to communicate to the network.
In case this authorization has been missed or if the firewall has been activated after the installation,
the settings of the firewall for RDS Toolbox need to be updated.
1. Open the control panel of Windows, on “System & security”, select “Windows Firewall”
(shortcut : > “firewall.cpl”)
2. select “Authorize an application via the Windows firewall”
3. In the list of programs, go on “RDS Toolbox” and check the appropriate boxes
o Domain
o Private (Domestic / Enterprise)
o Public
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 168

Appendix
K.4 Connected Software K

The following software can use RDS service. For detailed settings and information, please read the
concerned paragraph.
Regarding the mouse use, this is managed by RDS. Then all software have same configuration.
Min.
Software Settings Button0 Button1 Button2
Version
2.05 In Board configuration, select Hit Pt
“Absolute RDS”
3.0 Del Pt Hit Pt / Del Pt

Validate
2010 Use “ROMER RDS” interface in Del Pt / Hit Pt Validate

PCDMIS Cancel
6.0 Install ROMER RDS Plug-in Del Hit Pt/ Validate

Meas. start
(Lg pr) scan.
5.04 Select “HEXAGON RDS” interface Del Pt Hit Pt Validate
in PWI
11.0.22 Select “Absolute Arm” in PWKs Cancel Hit Pt / Validate

Pt Scan
Xg12 Select “Romer RDS” in Config. Ass. Validate Hit Pt Validate
POS / Hit Pt Execute

Cancel / End
11.0 Install “Absolute” plugin Hit Pt / Validate

Scan
2011. Select Romer Absolute or Multi Hit Pt / Validate

10.20 Gage Scan
2.2.1.2 Start-
Scan
V5.4 Select “Romer RDS” Start
Scan
Calypso V5.2.1 Select “Romer->Absolute Arm” Hit Pt.
6
V2013 Install CMM driver and select Hit Pt /
(Pro “Hexagon RDS” Scan
for
scan)
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 169

Appendix
K.4.1 RDS Data Collector K

B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last point Hit Point Not Used
Long Click Cancel Multiple points Validation
K.4.2 Romosoft
 Configuration (unnecessary for V2.0.6)
1. In the ROMOSOFT toolbar, right click on GDS . And select {Board}
2. The following window will appear: Click on RA7 / MG (RDS Driver)
3. The following window will appear. Click {Cancel}.
4. Then {Exit}.
To access to RDS configuration, use RDS icon in the task bar or access through Menu OPTIONS >
CUSTOMISATION > double click in middle tab.
 Buttons
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Not used Hit Point Not Used
Long Click Not used Validation Not used
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 170

Appendix
K.4.3 Docs K
No configuration is necessary.
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last Point / Hit Point Cancel last Point /
Cancel Cancel
Long Click Not used Validate / Stand by Not used
K.4.4 PcDmis
For Demo licences, rename RomerRDS.dll as interfac.dll and add the operator
“/portable:ROMERRDS” to the command “pcdlrn.exe”
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last Point / Hit Point Validate
Cancel
Long Click Cancel several points Multiple points Not used
K.4.5 PowerInspect
For all versions, in the list of available measuring machines, select “HexagonRDS”.
For Scanning use, minimum version is 2011 Sp1
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last Point / Hit Point Validate
Cancel
Long Click Cancel all points Multiple points Switch to mouse
K.4.6 Metrolog / µLog
Depending on the arm, in the configuration program, select the appropriate ROMER RDS device.
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Validate Hit Point Validate
Long Click Cancel Point Multiple points Cancel Point
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 171

Appendix
K.4.7 Polyworks K
 Configuration :
1. Access the Workspace Manager Options
2. In the Plug-ins, select “Romer Absolute Arm and Scanning peripheral”.
3. In ImInspect “Probing toolbar”, select “Romer Absolute Arm”
 RDS settings :
In “Probing toolbar”, click on the probe button, then Click on “properties :
opens “RDS Control Panel”
automatically runs “Probe calibration” script in “RDS Data

Collector”
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Delete last point Hit Point Validate
Long Click Delete all points burst points Not used
 Arm buttons use for message boxes :

When a message box appears, the arm buttons can be used to make a choice in the box:
A short press on any button (BP0, BP1, BP2), switches to the next choice.
A long press on any button validates this choice.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 172

Appendix
K.4.8 Reshaper K
During the Reshaper installation , select the ROMER RDS plug-in (if necessary, install Reshaper
ROMER RDS Plug-In).
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last Hit / Start Validate
Measurement measurement
Long Click Not used burst points Not used
K.4.9 ScanWorks
In ScanWorks console, tab “Hardware Control”, select “Hexagon Absolute” mover type.
B0 B1 B2
Short Click Cancel last Start / Stop scan Validate
Measurement
Long Click Not used Not used
K.4.10 Quindos
After Quindos/IppServer-startup the configuration menu is shown for making some settings, for
example the loudness of the speaker. To make the new settings effective, you must press the
SAVE-button and exit the configuration tool.
B0 B1 B2
Short Click equivalent to POS- Take a probing point Execute current line
button on Leitz jogbox
Long Click DELR (delete record) Take burst probing END (Execute all following
points until released lines up to the end of the
list)
 Probe naming:
The probe names on the Quindos side and the RDS side cannot be kept the same, because there
exist different conventions for allowed names:
RDS: “Center reference probe”, “6mm”, “3mm”
Quindos: “_Center_reference_probe”, “_6mm”, “_3mm”
K.4.11 Geomagic
After Geomagic installation, install “Absolute Probing” and “Absolute Scanning” plug-ins
In Qualify or Studio ,”material” tab, select “Hexagon Absolute Probing” or “Hexagon Absolute
Scanning”
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 173

Appendix
K.4.12 Verisurf
 Device Setup & start
K
The Verisurf Device Manager typically opens on the right side of the
Verisurf program. It may be accessed as well using the DRO
toolbutton on the Measure Manager Toolbar.
The Romer RDS Arm must be connected to the Verisurf Device
Manager, using the “Start” button in the Device Manager once the
intial Device Setup has been completed.
On the first start of Verisurf, prior to measurement, the RDS arm

must be assigned to the Verisurf Device Manager and started.
Device Setup is accessed from the Device Manager Toolbar.
1. On the Device Manager Toolbar, choose the Device Setup

button : Device Setup window opens.
2. Select the number of devices
3. On the tab of the Device (Device1, Device2, …) that must be allocated to the RDS arm, select
the appropriate RDS arm.
The primary instrument should be assigned to Device 1, it is not necessary to select

more instruments than you have
4. Start Device – launch the Device directly from the Device Setup using the Start Device button.
5. When selecting Start Device, the Romer Absolute Arm Interface Controls dialog box appears.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 174

Appendix
6. In this dialog (right), the Options menu provides access to controls for the Romer RDS Arms.
K
.
7. The same controls can be quickly accessed by selecting the Buttons available in the Romer
Absolute Arm Interface Controls dialog .
There are two methods for Starting the connection:

1. Select the Start button in the control area.
2. On the Device List, right-click on the device that you want to activate, and then choose Start
Device from the speed menu (right).
3. Verisurf starts the device.
 Activating a Device
Starting a device doesn’t mean make it active. As several devices can
be started, it is necessary to activate the one to use.
In the list of devices, check or uncheck the one to activate or not.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 175

Appendix
 Probe Management
The Probe Manager allows the operator to create and manage Custom Probes. (edit, duplicate, rename, K
calibrate, …).
From the Device Manager select the Probe Icon to open the Probe Manager quick menu, then
select Probe Manager to access the Probe Manager dialog.
Create/Copy Probe Creates a new probe based on the current one. Simply rename it.
Renaming a Probe Available for Custom Probes only. All the probes must have a
unique name.
Deleting a Probe Available for Custom Probes only. Delete cannot be undone.
Calibrate Probe Opens Romer RDS Data Collector.
Loading Probe To recall a saved Probe set (*.prb file).

Sets
Save a Probe Set Used to save the current Probe Set to an ASCII File (*.prb file).
This is useful to backup or archive your probes for loading or
restoring later.
Help
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 176

Appendix
K.4.13 Aberlink K
 Aberlink3D
Aberlink3D is designed to work with many different kinds of measuring devices including manual
CMM's, CNC's, arms and vision systems. Installation is the same whatever device you are using.
The Green Keylok Dongle will define which options can be accessed by Aberlink3D via machine
set up -> scales. Please see “Aberlink3D Keylok Installation”.
Run the setup.exe from the CD. Click next until you come to the select components - custom
installation. Choose retrofit. In practice it makes no functional difference which option you choose.
This option only sets the reference picture and relevant section of the language file, neither of
which is used by the Romer Arm. Click through the next windows. Various other packages will be
installed i.e. .Net framework etc. Again these are standard installs, just follow the prompts and
select the default settings.
 Configuring Aberlink3D
The following steps must be carried out by an administrator.
Start Aberlink 3D
open the ‘Setup’ form (using the button).
Use the ‘Tech…’ button code 2.718) to open the

technical details side of the form.
Use the default settings you will need to check
Tab Scales - set the ‘Romer RDS Arm’ radio

button.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 177

Appendix
Tab Reference Marks - Reference Marks used is

unticked K
Tab Probe Head - 13) Fixed
Tab Others - All options unticked - except

SPC option is ticked
Probe default state is ticked
Probe check enabled is ticked
Close the setup form then close down and restart

Aberlink3D
K.4.14 Spatial Analyzer

Once SA is installed, access to “Instrument > Add” and select the appropriate device.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 178

Appendix
K.4.15 Calypso
1. Define a new CMM in the Administration tab by typing a name and pressing Enter and then
K
clicking the Add button.
2. In the Control tab define the controller: Select NonCZControl from the Controller selection.
Make sure you have Simulation only (offline) unchecked.
3. In the Machine tab define the machine properties. Please select Non-CZControl ®
ROMERRDSArm from the dropdown list. For more details see the Calypso User Guide.
4. In the Probe tab select PH FIX ® TPxx as the probing system regardless of what probe you are
actually using (Solid probe or TP2).
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 179

Appendix
5. In the Panel tab select NonCZControl as control panel.

K
6. Define the connection parameters: On the tab Interface you enter the hostname of the
computer, on which the CimCoreInterface is installed.
7. Normally you enter "localhost,NONCZCONTROL" in the address field while Control is selected.
8. The settings for Panel don’t need to be changed.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 180

Appendix
K.4.16 PowerSHAPE
 Configuration for contact probes
K
Basic version of PowerSHAPE can be used with contact probes.
After PowerSHAPE installation (V2013 minimum), install the CMM driver provided by Delcam.
Once PowerSHAPE is run, Click on the Arm connection button on the bottom toolbar. The system
is ready
 Configuration for Scanners

PowerSHAPE Pro is necessary to be used with Hexagon arm scanners.
After PowerSHAPE installation (V2013 minimum), install the CMM driver provided by Delcam.
Once PowerSHAPE-Pro is run, Click on the Arm connection button for Probing or on the laser
button for scanning. The system is ready
 CMM toolbar
Once the arm (contact probe) or scanner are connected, a toolbar is available :
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1. Close the toolbar

2. Open the Delcam driver CMM selection box
3. Connect to the arm
4. Access probe calibration
5. Arm status
6. Cancel last scan cloud
7. Give a new colour for each new scan cloud
8. Lock the 3D view
9. Display the status window for the scan
The status windows for the scan Shows the stripes information in real time :
Number of clouds
Total amount of stripes
Total amount of scan points for the current cloud
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 181

Appendix
K.5 Computer Wi-Fi settings K

To get optimized Wi-Fi connection to the arm, the Wi-Fi chipset should respect the following
settings :
Driver Always check that the latest version is installed. (Windows Update for ex)
Prefered Band Prefer 2.4GHz band
Wireless mode 2. 802.11b
Transmit Power Highest
Roaming Highest
Aggressiveness
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 182

Appendix
K.6 Troubleshooting K
Computer slow down very often If the computer is very slow each time RDS data
collector or any other 3D software, check if the driver
of the graphic card is correct. (for ex if the driver
display “VGA card”, then you should search for a
better driver)
The arm doesn’t connect anymore after The driver was not updated :
the update of RDS Enter the hardware management
Select USB > WinDriver
Update the driver
Select C:\Program Files (x86)\RDS\USB Drivers
RDS cannot be uninstalled “Couldnot Access the registry

find RDS install Log” “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE(\Wow6432N
ode for 64 bits OS)
\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\RDS”
And delete the RDS folder.
Then RDS can be reinstalled properly.
In RDS Toolbox, maintenance Most of the maintenance functions can be used only in
functions can’t connect the arm USB connection mode. If the current connection is Wi-
Fi, use the USB cable to connect the arm to the
computer.
RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 183

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Presentation - Installation

Hexagon Metrology Division ROMER

Hexagon Metrology Inc.

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 1

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 2

Conventions Used in this Guide A

Information indicates an advice, or link to another documentation.

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 3

Manual Item for all users

Manual Item only for Level 2 Technicians

Manual General danger

Read the manual before use

Manual Electric risk

Manual Chemical risk

Manual Pinch Risk

Manual Cutting Risk

Manual Laser risk

Manual Feature is standard

Manual Feature is not available

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 4

Manufacturer of the product

Manufacturer of non-HEXAGON METROLOGY accessories

Person in charge of the product

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 5

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 6

B.10 Video capture (for equipped arms) ............................................................................................ 63

F.4 SMART Overview panel .......................................................................................................... 115

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 8

K.4.2 Romosoft .................................................................................................................... 170

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 9

RDS Service The driver.

RDS Control User’s interface to setup the arm.

RDS Quick Utility to quickly measure basic dimensions.

A.2 RDS Levels and securities

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 10

A.3 System Requirements A

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 11

Connection Probing & Scanning

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 12

 Measurement software compatibilities

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 13

A.5 SMART Data Exchange A

A.5.2 What type of information does Hexagon Metrology collect?

A.5.3 How does Hexagon Metrology use collected information?

A.5.4 Privacy protection

A.5.6 Further information

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 15

Depending on the computer security settings (User Account Control), a confirmation

3. The following window appears. Click on {next}.

The User information is displayed in the Web browser.

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 16

7. At the end of the installation, press OK

8. If Windows asks for computer restart, press “OK”.

NB: No arm data files are necessary to load on the computer.

All settings, configuration and options are preserved.

It is recommended to disable any firewall as it may prevent RDS from functioning

Depending on the version of Windows ®, it may be necessary to confirm some

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 17

RDS User Manual V4.0.0 (17/03/2015) 18

A.7 Quick Reference A

Configure the Wi-Fi chipset 147

Probe Program a probe 142

Reference Move the arm by a leap-frog 57