Lesson 4: Vital Information Display/Management System

Lesson 4: Vital Information

Display/Management System

Introduction:
This lesson covers the basic system operation, major components,
onboard and offboard applications, and hardware/software
requirements of the Vital Information Display/Management System
(VIDS/VIMS). This information is intended to be basic to provide
some background knowledge of the VIDS/VIMS systems. Specific
information is contained in the service manual module for respective
machine applications.
Objectives:
The student will be able to explain the basic operation of the Vital
Information Display System (VIDS) and the Vital Information
Management System (VIMS).
References:
Appropriate VIDS or VIMS Monitoring System Service Manual
Module to support the machine monitoring system covered in the
classroom discussion.
Tooling:
None
Unit 4 4-4-2 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Keypad
Speedometer/
Message Center Module
Gauge Cluster Tachometer
Service Module
Module Module
Lamp
OK

0 ID
ABC DEF
1 2 3
GHI JKL MNO
4 5 6
VIMS PRS TUV WXY

Service 12 MPH
3F
7 8 9

RS-232
P1 P2 P3
km/h
Keyswitch
Port VIMS
Service Tool Electronic
And Technician/ECAP
Software
Display
Keypad
Data Link
Data Link

VIMS VIMS Cat Data Link

VIMS MAIN MODULE
Interface Interface
Module Engine
Module Control

Action
Alarm

Action
Lamp
Cat Data Link
Sensors Sensors

Sensors

Implement Control Transmission Control

Fig. 4.4.1 Vital Information Management System (VIMS) Component Diagram

VIDS and VIMS operate on different machine models, and all

components discussed in this lesson may not be present on every
machine. When uploaded with source code software, the main
module recognizes (through configuration software) the machine on
which it is installed and, therefore, knows which components are
present. The Vital Information Display System (VIDS) is a subset
version of the Vital Information Management System (VIMS) with
fewer capabilities.
The various electronic control modules (ECMs) communicate with
each other in addition to receiving information from other machine
ECMs (such as the Engine ECM, Transmission ECM, etc.).
Unit 4 4-4-3 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

VIDS/VIMS

Fig. 4.4.2 VIDS/VIMS Electronic Module

The VIDS and VIMS are electronic monitoring systems for large
Caterpillar machines. The VIMS is composed of modular onboard
electronics which have the ability to acquire data, perform analysis,
store information, and display data. The VIDS is similar to the VIMS
but does not have data storage capability except for service code
information. The VIDS and the VIMS are similar in system makeup,
the differences and similarities will be discussed later as they apply.
Using both onboard and offboard hardware and software, the VIMS
displays information to the machine operator in addition to supplying
information on machine systems to dealer and customer technical
staff. This information will assist in minimizing downtime and
operating costs.
The various ECMs that compose the VIDS/VIMS communicate with
each other in addition to receiving information from other machine
ECMs (such as the Engine ECM, Transmission ECM, etc.).
To successfully service machines equipped with VIMS, the technician
needs to become proficient in accessing the information through the
onboard keypad and message center, and must also be able to use a
service tool (PC) to perform other required tasks.
The VIDS primary interface to the operator and service technician is
through the use of the operator keypad and the message center.
Provisions for a computer connection have been made only for
uploading source and configuration software.
Unit 4 4-4-4 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

EVENTS
Maintenance
or
Data

Fig. 4.4.3 Maintenance or Data Events

VIDS/VIMS is designed to alert the operator of an immediate or

impending abnormal condition in one or more of the machine systems
that are being monitored. These abnormal conditions are called
"events." Two types of events are recognized and stored by the
VIDS/VIMS. One event is called a "maintenance" event and alerts
the operator to an abnormal machine condition (such as hydraulic oil
temperature too high). The other event is called a "data" event, which
alerts the operator to a fault condition which is caused by a
malfunction (fault) in one of the electronic devices (such as a
hydraulic temperature sensor being used to monitor a machine
system). A more detailed explanation of "events" will be covered
later in the lesson.
In addition to alerting the operator of an abnormal condition,
machines equipped with the VIMS have a service lamp installed
externally on the machine to alert service or maintenance personnel
that an "event" is present, and diagnostic information regarding the
event is available in the VIMS.
The major modules that comprise the VIDS/VIMS will now be
discussed in detail.
Unit 4 4-4-5 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Fig. 4.4.4 Gauge Cluster Module

The gauge cluster module contains four gauges to provide
information on measured machine parameters (such as temperature,
pressure, and fuel level). Consult the appropriate Operation and
Maintenance Manual for specific machine parameters.
The VIDS/VIMS use electronic input devices (sensors) to measure
the parameter, calculate an output signal, and send the signal to the
gauge cluster where the parameter is displayed.
The gauge cluster is configured for a specific machine (shovel, off-
highway truck, or wheel loader) and the actual machine parameter is
represented on the gauge by a graphic symbol.

15
10 20

5 25
X100

0 MPH
30
km/h

Fig. 4.4.5 Speedometer/Tachometer Module

The speedometer/tachometer (not used on all machines) displays
ground speed in mph (km/h), engine speed, and transmission actual
gear position. On some machines, ground speed and actual gear are
not displayed.
Unit 4 4-4-6 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

DATA
LOGGER
ALERT INDICATOR
INDICATOR

UNIVERSAL ENGINE TEMP [135] GAUGE

GAUGE WARNING
60 Deg F
AREA

MESSAGE
AREA

Fig. 4.4.6 Message Center Module

The message center module contains a Data Logger indicator, alert

indicator, universal gauge, gauge warning area, and message area.
The Data Logger indicator (series of four dots) in the upper right
corner scrolls when the Data Logger is turned on. The dots are not
present when the Data Logger is stopped or when the Data Logger is
initiated with the offboard service tool (PC). The Data Logger is only
available on the VIMS.
The alert indicator notifies the operator of an abnormal machine
condition. The condition could be caused by the VIDS/VIMS
detecting a "maintenance" or "data" event. The alert indicator
receives a signal from the main module causing the indicator to flash.
The alert indicator will be discussed in detail in the warning operation
section of this presentation.
The message area shows the value for the parameter shown on the
universal gauge. For sensor-type parameters (non switch-type
inputs), the gauge shows the actual value for the parameter being
measured. The gauge can also be used to observe any of the machine
parameters by entering the parameter number on the keypad and
pressing the "gauge" on the keypad. The universal gauge allows the
operator or technician to select their "favorite" parameter or to
monitor a troublesome parameter which has not exceeded its limit.
The message area displays information regarding the condition of the
machine. The display of information is prioritized and includes
machine or system events, operator or technician requested data, and
default information.
Unit 4 4-4-7 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

The message area provides two lines of text (twenty characters each
line) to display information to the operator or technician. When an
event (machine or system) occurs, information relating to the out-of-
specification parameter is displayed on the first line to identify the
nature of the abnormal condition. The following is an example of
information that may appear in the message area if an abnormal
machine event occurs.

LOW ENGINE OIL LEVEL

SHUT DOWN SAFELY

Information on the second line displays the desired operator response

to the condition.
If a system event occurs, the message area will display the parameter
followed by the word ERROR. The second line will give the
operator instructions regarding the condition. The following is an
example of information that may appear if a system event is active.

OIL PRESSURE ERROR

CALL SHOP
If more than one event is present at a time, the event information will
be displayed according to priority.
The message area can also display requested data such as event lists
or active system events in Module Identification (MID), Component
Identification (CID), and Failure Mode Identifier (FMI) format.
If no data has been requested by the operator and no event messages
are active, default information will be presented in the message area.
The default information includes time of day, date, and machine
service hours. Date and time information is only available on
machines equipped with the VIMS.

The following is an example of default information displayed in the

message area:

0745 267
7/10/00

If a problem exists in either the source code or configuration

software, the time of day and service meter hours will not be
displayed after start-up.
Unit 4 4-4-8 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

OK

0 ID

ABC DEF
1 2 3

GHI JKL MNO

4 5 6

PRS TUV WXY

7 8 9

F1 F2 F3

Fig. 4.4.7 VIDS/VIMS Keypad

The keypad allows the operator or technician to communicate with

the VIDS/VIMS by entering numeric information. The numeric
section of the keypad (keys 0 - 9) can be used to initiate service
procedures, enter operator identification codes, acknowledge events,
and respond to VIMS queries (such as data logging information).
An indicator (in the corner of keypad) flashes each time a key is
pressed to inform the operator or technician that the keystroke was
accepted.
The orientation of the keypad differs depending on the machine
model using the system, although the function of the keypad remains
primarily the same. On some systems, the VIDS used on the D11R
Carrydozer for example, the keypad is used to manage some of the
automated implement functions and is specialized to the application.
Eight additional keys are available for inputting information. They
are:

OK

Used to complete keypad entries and to acknowledge events.

ID

Used by the operator to enter his or her identification or badge

number into the VIDS/VIMS memory.
Unit 4 4-4-9 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Used to display the value of any measured parameter. When the

gauge key is pressed, line one of the message area displays the
parameter name and parameter number, and line two displays the
parameter value and unit of measure.
The information displayed using the gauge key is presented for one
parameter at a time. To scroll through the remaining parameters
requires using the Forward and Backward arrow keys.
A specific parameter can be displayed without using the forward/
backward keys by entering the number of the parameter and then
pressing the Gauge key. The requested information will remain
displayed until the OK key is pressed, which returns the message
center module to the default mode.
If an event occurs while a parameter is being displayed, the
parameter information will be overwritten with the event information.

Allows the operator or technician to scroll forward or backward

through the information shown in the message area.

F1

Allows the operator or service technician to request additional

information regarding machine and system events. If a machine
event is displayed, pressing the F1 key will replace the information
shown on line two of the message area with the event value and units.
If a system event is displayed, pressing the F1 key will replace the
information shown on line two with MID, CID, and FMI information
(example: MID 049, CID 0168, FMI 04).

F2 F3

The F2 and F3 keys have more specialized functions based on

machine system and configuration. On some machines F2 is used as
a clear key to exit calibration modes. On some machines F3 is used
for the payload monitor function. See the specific machine service
manual for more information.
Unit 4 4-4-10 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

VIDS/VIMS
MAIN MODULE

Fig. 4.4.8 VIDS/VIMS Main Module

The main module is the "heart" of the VIDS/VIMS and, as such,

makes decisions based upon input signals received from various other
electronic control modules on the machine. A 37 pin connector on
the module connects the necessary harness wiring to the input and
output devices.
The overall function of the main module can be described in four
sections. The four sections are labeled: Data Links, Inputs, Outputs,
and Display Components.
Data Links
The main modules incorporate four different data links. One is
the CAT Data Link which is a bi-directional link allowing the
VIDS/VIMS to communicate with other onboard electronic
controls. The first data link, the CAT Data Link, uses two
communication paths to ensure uninterrupted communications in
the event of an open in one path.
The second and third data links are RS-232 data links. These two
communication links are separate. One of the links has two
communication ports, one in the cab and the other mounted
outside the cab to allow easy access for the technician.
• One of the RS-232 Data Links allows the VIMS to
communicate with an offboard service tool (PC).

• The other RS-232 Data Link allows the VIMS to

communicate through two-way radio communications with
other offboard systems.

The fourth Data Link is an instrumentation link that connects the

various display components to the main module. This Data Link
is similar to the Display Data Link used by the Caterpillar
Monitoring System.
Unit 4 4-4-11 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Inputs
Inputs to the VIMS main module include a switch-type input
from the key start switch, open or grounded switch-type inputs
from switches used to monitor machine events, a lighting sensor
to inform the main module when the dash panel lamps are turned
ON, a keypad input to receive information from the keypad, and
an input that measures system voltage at the VIMS circuit
breaker.
Outputs
The main module sends an output signal to the action lamp if a
Category 2 or 3 warning is present. The module also sends a
signal to the action alarm to sound an alarm if a Category 3
warning is present. The main module provides power for all the
display components, and turns a service light ON (steady) to alert
maintenance personnel if an active system event is present. The
light will flash if an abuse related event is present.
Display Components
The main module supplies information to all the display
components (gauge cluster, speedometer/tachometer, message
center and keypad). The display components alert the operator to
machine conditions.
Unit 4 4-4-12 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Fig. 4.4.9 VIDS/VIMS Interface Module

The VIDS/VIMS can accommodate up to eight interface modules.

The exact number of interface modules installed on a Caterpillar
machine will be determined by the configuration software. Although
each module functions in the same manner, each module will be
assigned its own individual MID. The MID number associated with
each module is determined by the machine harness code connections
on each module.
The interface modules receive inputs from the sensors and switches,
process the information and then send an output to the main VIMS
module over the CAT Data Link where the information is processed
and sent to the various display components. This greatly reduces the
amount of wiring harnesses that would normally be required to send
each input signal to a central location.
Each interface module operates as a separate ECM and contains
identical internal components. Each module has the capacity to
process eight pulse width modulation (PWM) inputs, nine switch
(on-off) inputs, and three frequency (speed/pressure) inputs.
The following is a brief description of the interface module inputs:
Sensor Inputs
The VIMS uses sensors to provide information on the various
measured parameters. The sensors used by the VIMS are either
pulse width modulation or frequency type.
Unit 4 4-4-13 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Switch Inputs
Each module is capable of processing information from thirteen
switches. Eight of the switch inputs are uncommitted and
provide the module with machine system status information
(open or grounded). The information is received from pressure
switches, temperature switches, flow and level switches and
position switches.
One switch input is a committed input received from the key start
switch and provides the module with battery voltage on contact
No. 1 of the 40 pin connector when the key switch is in the ON
position.
The remaining four inputs are programming type inputs and, as
such, are harness code inputs that tell the main VIMS module
which interface module it is communicating with. A combination
of grounded and open harness code inputs determines the unique
MID code for each module installed on the machine.
CAT Data Link
This Data Link provides the VIDS/VIMS with both an input and
output. Its primary purpose is to provide a high speed ring that
allows data to be shared by all electronic controls used on the
machine.
Each VIDS/VIMS module has two identical Data Links that work
independently. The two communication paths allow the VIDS/
VIMS to continue operating even if one of the Data Links
becomes damaged. The CAT Data Link system is bi-directional
(input/output) and also performs as an output device.
The interface module(s), in addition to receiving and processing
information from individual electronic devices (sensors and switches),
provide outputs. The primary outputs are delivered via the CAT Data
Link to the main VIDS/VIMS module. The interface module does
provide two solenoid outputs which can be used to energize solenoids
or relay coils, and also provides two regulated voltage outputs that
are used to power the sensors. The regulated outputs are +8 and +5
DCV.
Unit 4 4-4-14 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

Depending on the machine configuration and software, numerous

other ECMs can be connected to the VIDS/VIMS. Some of the
additional ECMs that may be installed are:
Engine ECM (Electronic Unit Injection)
Implement ECM (Electro-Hydraulic Implement Control)
Electronic Programmable Transmission Control (EPTC II)
Automatic Retarder Control (ARC)
Each additional control module processes its own input devices and
uses the CAT Data Link to communicate with the VIDS/VIMS.

Category 1

Category 2

Category 3
Fig. 4.4.10 Warning Operation

Warning categories used by the VIDS/VIMS are similar to those used

by the monitoring systems discussed earlier in this unit.
The operator receives the following types of warning:
Warning Category 1
Alert indicator flashes. No immediate action required by the
operator. (Requires servicing by the end of the shift.) This could
just be to alert the operator of a machine condition such as Park
Brake engaged and may not require service.
Warning Category 2
Alert indicator flashes and the action lamp flashes. Machine
operation should be changed or maintenance performed.
Warning Category 3
Alert indicator flashes, action lamp flashes, and action alarm
sounds. Operator should perform an immediate safe engine
shutdown.
Unit 4 4-4-15 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

The VIDS/VIMS triggers the warning operation when a machine or

system event occurs. The abnormal condition is sensed by the
interface module, processed, and then sent to the main module where
the appropriate warning category is determined and relayed to the
operator through the alert indicator (flashing), action lamp (flashing)
or the action alarm (sounding).
Warning inputs are provided by switches and sensors. In some cases,
more than one input is needed to trigger a specific warning category.
The VIDS/VIMS identifies the warning category displayed according
to active events. If more than one event is active, each event will be
scrolled on the message area in five second intervals. If a Category 3
(most severe) event is active, Category 1 and 2 events cannot be
scrolled.
Although the VIMS warning categories are the same as those used on
other systems (EMS, CMS, and the Caterpillar Monitoring System),
some changes have been made in the area of operator awareness.
The VIMS documents when the operator acknowledges the fault.
When a Category 1 or 2 event becomes active, the operator can
acknowledge the event by pressing the OK key on the keypad.
Depending on the nature of the event, the warning category may be
cancelled for a specific period of time. After the time interval is
exceeded, the warning category will again be displayed. Category 3
events cannot be cancelled by the operator.
NOTE: The above information is general in nature. For specific
machine information, consult the appropriate Operation and
Maintenance Manual for the machine in question.
Unit 4 4-4-16 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

ENGINE TEMP [135]

60 Deg F

F1 ABC DEF
OK
F2 F3 GH1 JKL MNO

PRS TUV WXY

ID

Fig. 4.4.11 Message Center and Keypad

In addition to supplying the operator and technician with machine

and system event information, the message center and keypad can be
used to initiate numerous VIDS/VIMS service operations.
Service Operations
This section will cover those service operations that directly impact
operator or service technician areas of responsibility. A more detailed
explanation of the service operations and codes can be found in the
appropriate machine service manual module(s). The service
operations and codes are specific to machine applications. The
following is an example of a service program code:
35478 Numerical digits assigned to the service program
for viewing the event list.

ELIST Alpha letters associated with the digits 35478 on

the keypad.

In the assignment of service program codes, the numerical code is a

direct correlation to the letter code in English only. The alpha (letter)
designator is used to simplify (easier to remember) the coding
system. After entering a service program code, the OK key on the
keypad must be pressed to initiate the entry.
For more detailed information on service program codes refer to the
appropriate VIDS or VIMS service manual.
Unit 4 4-4-17 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

EVENTS
Maintenance
or
Data

Fig. 4.4.12 Maintenance or Data Events

The VIDS/VIMS onboard components not only display information

relating to machine parameters but, as stated earlier, also alert the
operator of an impending event (abnormal condition) in one or more
of the machine systems being monitored. These abnormal conditions
are called "events." Two categories of events can occur:
maintenance events and data events.
Maintenance events indicate that the machine is operating outside of
normal limits. A maintenance event may occur because a specific
parameter detects an abnormal condition. An example of a
maintenance event could be low hydraulic oil level or low fuel level.
The VIDS/VIMS will alert the operator with the appropriate warning
category. The operator must acknowledge the event and then take the
appropriate action required. If more than one event is present of the
same category, the message center will alternate between each event.
Data events reflect the VIDS/VIMS self-diagnostic capabilities. If
the VIDS/VIMS detects an event condition in one or more of its
electronic monitoring devices (switches, sensors, etc.), a data event
will be immediately displayed on the message center and the operator
will be alerted by the appropriate warning. The service technician
can retrieve additional diagnostic information on the detected fault by
pressing the F1 key on the keypad or by accessing the VIMS through
the use of a service tool (PC).
Unit 4 4-4-18 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

VOLTAGE TOO LOW

SHUT DOWN SAFELY

Fig. 4.4.13 Maintenance Event

The message area provides two lines (twenty characters per line) to
display information to the operator or service technician. When a
maintenance event occurs, a message is displayed on the first line to
identify the type of abnormal condition. The second line indicates the
required operator action.

VOLTAGE TOO LOW

SHUT DOWN SAFELY

In the above example, the operator is alerted to a Category 3 warning.

The alert indicator and action lamp will flash and the action alarm
will sound. The message center directs the operator to shut the
machine down safely. Pressing the “F1” key will display more
information about the maintenance event on the second line of the
display. In this example the second line would display the current
system voltage.
The VIDS/VIMS detected a critically low system voltage (less than
23.0 Volts). Continued machine operation with low system voltage
could possibly cause the electronic controls installed on the machine
to shut down.
The service technician can easily investigate the machine event using
the universal gauge as a service tool. Entering the parameter number
of 140 and pressing the Gauge key on the keypad will display the
parameter name and number on the first line and the parameter value
and units on the second line. Example:

VOLTAGE [140]
22.5 VOLTS
Unit 4 4-4-19 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

When a maintenance event occurs and the service technician is

requested to diagnose the malfunction, it is important that all the facts
concerning the reported complaint are gathered. The advanced
capabilities of the VIDS/VIMS allow the system to distinguish
between actual problems with the machine or its components and
conditions caused by inappropriate operation (abuse). The VIDS/
VIMS will distinguish between the types of problems and maintain a
count of occurrences in memory.
To effectively diagnose maintenance events may require the service
technician to use all available VIDS/VIMS resources. The message
center and keypad may be used to display event information such as
event statistics, event list, and acknowledge events. To observe the
above information, the service technician must initiate the appropriate
service operation.
On the VIMS, the event information can be downloaded using a
service tool (PC). Downloading an event list will provide the service
technician with the following types of event information:
• Machine serial number
• Service Meter Units (SMU)
• Description (event name)
• Date of event
• Time event started
• Minimum or maximum limits (value where a warning occurs)
• Units of measurement
• Actual event value
• Event duration
• Acknowledgment time
It may also be necessary to use other types of stored information in
solving machine abnormalities.
Unit 4 4-4-20 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

OIL PRESSURE ERROR

CALL SHOP

Fig. 4.4.14 Data Events

The message area provides two lines (twenty characters per line) to
display information to the operator or service technician. When a
data event occurs, information identifying a specific parameter has
"error" displayed on the first line and information giving the operator
instructions appears on the second line. Example:

OIL PRESSURE ERROR

CALL SHOP

With the above information displayed in the message area, additional

diagnostic information can be displayed on the second line by
pressing the F1 key on the keypad.
The display will now show the MID, CID and FMI codes for the
active system event. Example:

OIL PRESSURE ERROR

MID057 CID0827 FMI100

The diagnostic codes displayed on the second line provide valuable

information to the service technician. The MID identifies which
electronic control has diagnosed the event. Since the VIMS has the
ability to receive system event information from other controls over
the CAT Data Link, it is necessary to establish the source of the
event. Each electronic control module installed on the machine has
its own unique identifier. Always refer to the appropriate service
manual for the proper MID identifier codes.
Unit 4 4-4-21 Machine Electronics
Lesson 4

To successfully diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair VIDS/VIMS

malfunctions will require the service technician to use all resources
available (service manuals, wiring schematics, handouts etc.).
Additionally, the service technician needs to be able to use the
diagnostic tooling that is available for all electronic control systems.
To diagnose VIDS/VIMS related faults, the service technician needs
to be totally proficient in reading and interpreting the electrical wiring
schematics and in the use of a digital multimeter.