MIDAS IV RVR User's Guide

Runway Visual Range System
MIDAS IV RVR
USER'S GUIDE
M210364EN-B
February 2005
PUBLISHED BY
Vaisala Oyj Phone (int.): +358 9 8949 1

P.O. Box 26 Fax: +358 9 8949 2227
FIN-00421 Helsinki
Finland
Visit our Internet pages at http://www.vaisala.com/
© Vaisala 2005
No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means,

electronic or mechanical (including photocopying), nor may its contents
be communicated to a third party without prior written permission of the
copyright holder.
The contents are subject to change without prior notice.
Please observe that this manual does not create any legally binding
obligations for Vaisala towards the customer or end user. All legally
binding commitments and agreements are included exclusively in the
applicable supply contract or Conditions of Sale.
________________________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Contents of This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Structure of the Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Related Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
General Safety Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Regulatory Compliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
License Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Introduction to MIDAS IV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
MIDAS IV Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
End-user Software Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Viewing Current Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Entering Data Manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Actuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Viewing Past Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Monitoring System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Event Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
System Maintenance Software Applications . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Diagnostic Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Sensor Terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
SensorIO Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Workstation Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Visibility Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
VAISALA ________________________________________________________________________ 1
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
CHAPTER 3
GETTING STARTED WITH MIDAS IV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Logging In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Starting and Exiting Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
MIDAS IV User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
MIDAS IV Application Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Note Field. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
System Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Event Monitor Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Operating MIDAS IV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Selecting MIDAS IV Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Switching between Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Arranging Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Showing, Hiding, and Moving Toolbars in Applications . . .28
Showing and Hiding Status Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
CHAPTER 4
WEATHER VIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Introduction to Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Weather View User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Weather Data Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Identification Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Weather Data Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Data Field Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Graphical Fields (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Audiovisual Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Alarm Window (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Operating Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Starting and Exiting Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Opening and Closing Weather Data Screens . . . . . . . . . .41
Monitoring Weather Data and Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Acknowledging Audiovisual Alarms (Optional) . . . . . . . . . .42
Simultaneous Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Alarm Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Viewing Stored Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Adjusting Graph Scales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Using Auto Scale in Graphs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Troubleshooting Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
CHAPTER 5
EVENT MONITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Introduction to Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Event Monitor User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Event Monitor Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Event Monitor Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
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Event Monitor Window Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Operating Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Starting and Exiting Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Monitoring and Acknowledging Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Using the Voice Alarm Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Viewing Events in Bottom Line Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Turning On Bottom Line Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Viewing Several Rows in Bottom Line Mode . . . . . . . . 60
Turning Off Bottom Line Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Viewing Event Monitor Always on Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Viewing Selected Event Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Viewing Events from Selected Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Viewing Stored Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Hiding the Event Monitor Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Troubleshooting Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
CHAPTER 6
ASCII LOG VIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Introduction to ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
ASCII Log View User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
ASCII Log View Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Visibility Data Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Events Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Operating ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Starting and Exiting ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Viewing History Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Resizing Panes and Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Scrolling the Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Viewing Several Windows at the Same Time . . . . . . . . . . 77
Refreshing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Copying Text from History Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Troubleshooting ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
CHAPTER 7
ACTUALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Introduction to Actuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Actuals User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Runway Parameters Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Operating Actuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Starting and Exiting Actuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
VAISALA ________________________________________________________________________ 3
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Using Automatic Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Using Backup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Using Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Entering Background Luminance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Entering Light Intensity Manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Viewing Light Intensity Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Troubleshooting Actuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
APPENDIX A
PARAMETER LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
APPENDIX B
GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
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List of Figures
Figure 1 A Typical MIDAS IV System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Figure 2 MIDAS IV RVR User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Figure 3 MIDAS IV Application Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Figure 4 System Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Figure 5 Event Monitor Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Figure 6 Weather View: Sample Weather Data Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Figure 7 Weather View: Sample Weather Data Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Figure 8 Data Status of Average Values in Problem Situations . . . . . . . 36
Figure 9 A Sample Graphical Field in Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Figure 10 Weather View: Graph Scales Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Figure 11 Weather View: Alarm Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Figure 12 Graph Scale Change Warning Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Figure 13 Event Monitor Status Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Figure 14 Event Monitor Window (Duplicated System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Figure 15 Event Monitor: Bottom Line Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Figure 16 Event Monitor: Bottom Line Mode with Several Rows . . . . . . . 60
Figure 17 ASCII Log View Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Figure 18 ASCII Log View: Visibility Data Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Figure 19 ASCII Log View: Events Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Figure 20 ASCII Log View: Opening History Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Figure 21 RVR/Visibility Actuals Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Figure 22 Actuals: Sensors in Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Figure 23 Runway Parameters Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
VAISALA ________________________________________________________________________ 5
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
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List of Tables
Table 1 Chapter Structure of the Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Table 2 Manual Revisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Table 3 Related Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Table 4 International Recommendations Applied to MIDAS IV
RVR Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Table 5 MIDAS IV Applications in Workstations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Table 6 MIDAS IV RVR Application Toolbar Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Table 7 Weather View: Weather Data Field Statuses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Table 8 Weather View: Graph Scales Window Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Table 9 Weather View: Alarm Window Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Table 10 Weather View: Display Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Table 11 Weather View: Edit Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Table 12 Weather View: View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Table 13 Weather View: Window Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Table 14 Weather View Toolbar Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Table 15 Troubleshooting Weather View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Table 16 Event Monitor Status Icon Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Table 17 Event Monitor Window Icon Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Table 18 Event Monitor Window Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Table 19 Event Monitor: Quick Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Table 20 Event Monitor: Quick Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Table 21 Event Monitor Type Column. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Table 22 Event Monitor Status Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Table 23 Event Monitor: Event Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Table 24 Event Monitor: View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Table 25 Event Monitor: Help Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Table 26 Event Monitor Toolbar Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Table 27 Event Statuses, Types, and Needed Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Table 28 An Example of the Event Chain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Table 29 Troubleshooting Event Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Table 30 ASCII Log View: Visibility Data Screen Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Table 31 ASCII Log View: Status Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Table 32 ASCII Log View: Events Screen Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Table 33 ASCII Log View: File Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Table 34 ASCII Log View: Edit Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Table 35 ASCII Log View: View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Table 36 ASCII Log View: Window Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Table 37 ASCII Log View: Help Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Table 38 ASCII Log View Toolbar Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Table 39 Sample ASCII Log View File Names . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Table 40 Troubleshooting ASCII Log View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Table 41 Elements in the Actuals Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Table 42 Actuals Data Field Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Table 43 Runway Parameters Window, Background Luminance Frame . . 84
Table 44 Preconfigured Ranges for Background Luminance . . . . . . . . . . . 84
VAISALA ________________________________________________________________________ 7
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Table 45 Runway Parameters Window, Light Intensity Frame . . . . . . . . .85

Table 46 Actuals: Actuals Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Table 47 Actuals: Edit Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Table 48 Actuals: View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Table 49 Actuals: Window Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Table 50 Actuals: Help Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Table 51 Actuals Toolbar Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Table 52 Troubleshooting Actuals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Table 53 Sample Parameters in Weather View and Actuals. . . . . . . . . . . .93
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Chapter 1 ________________________________________________________ General Information
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
This chapter describes the structure of this manual, and provides safety,
contact, and version history information.
About This Manual

This manual contains the information necessary to use the end-user
software applications of the Vaisala Runway Visual Range System
MIDAS IV RVR, from MIDAS IV version 3.0 onwards. The manual is
mainly intended for air traffic controllers, observers, and forecasters at
the airport.
Contents of This Manual

This manual consists of the following chapters:
- Chapter 1, General Information: This chapter describes the

structure of this manual, and provides safety, contact, and version
history information.
- Chapter 2, Product Overview: This chapter gives an overview of
the MIDAS IV system and its components.
- Chapter 3, Getting Started with MIDAS IV: This chapter describes
logging into the system, starting and exiting the applications, and
the user environment common to all applications.
VAISALA ________________________________________________________________________ 9
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
- Chapter 4, Weather View: This chapter contains instructions for

viewing meteorological data using the Weather View application.
- Chapter 5, Event Monitor: This chapter contains instructions for
viewing Event messages in the Event Monitor application.
- Chapter 6, ASCII Log View: This chapter contains instructions for
viewing history files with the ASCII Log View application.
- Chapter 7, Actuals: This chapter contains instructions for using
manual or backup data with the Actuals application.
- Appendix A, Parameter List: This chapter lists typical parameters
displayed in the windows of Weather View and Actuals
applications.
- Appendix B, Glossary: This glossary contains descriptions and
definitions for unique terms and abbreviations used in this manual.
Structure of the Manual

The chapters that introduce end-user applications and provide
instructions for using the applications, are structured in the way
described in Table 1 on page 10.
Table 1 Chapter Structure of the Manual

Section Contents
Introduction to the application Describes what the application is used for
The user interface of the Describes the user interface of the
application application and how data is presented in the
application
Operating the application Provides step-by-step instructions on how
to use the application
Troubleshooting the Describes some typical problem situations
application and solutions to them
10 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Version Information
Table 2 Manual Revisions
Manual Code Description
U346EN-1.1 Applicable from MIDAS IV RVR version 1.11
M210364EN-A Applicable from MIDAS IV RVR version 1.4
M210364EN-B This manual. Applicable from MIDAS IV RVR version 3.0
onwards.
Related Manuals
For information on the system architecture and the system maintenance
applications, see the appropriate MIDAS IV Maintenance Manual. For
instructions on installing, using, and maintaining the sensors and other
field devices, see the appropriate field device manuals.
The typical manual set available for the MIDAS IV products is

presented in Table 3 on page 11.
Table 3 Related Manuals

Manual Code Manual Name
M010027EN MIDAS IV AWOS User’s Guide
M010028EN MIDAS IV AWOS Maintenance Manual
M010033EN MIDAS IV SYNOP User’s Guide
M210308EN MIDAS IV SNOWTAM User’s Guide
M210611EN MIDAS IV CLIMAT User’s Guide
M210519EN MIDAS IV Database Reporting Tool User’s Guide
M010003EN MIDAS IV LLWAS User’s Guide
M210193EN MIDAS IV LLWAS Maintenance Manual
M210364EN MIDAS IV RVR User’s Guide
M210365EN MIDAS IV RVR Maintenance Manual
M210389EN Administrating MIDAS IV in Windows 2000, Technical
Reference
NOTE For information concerning the use of data collectors, sensors, or other
installed hardware, refer to the appropriate device manuals.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 11
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Feedback
Vaisala Customer Documentation Team welcomes your comments and
suggestions on the quality and usefulness of this publication. If you find
errors or have other suggestions for improvement, please indicate the
chapter, section, and page number. You can send comments to us by e-
mail: manuals@vaisala.com.
Safety
General Safety Considerations

Throughout the manual, important safety considerations are highlighted
as follows:
WARNING Warning alerts you to a serious hazard. If you do not read and follow
instructions very carefully at this point, there is a risk of injury or even
death.
CAUTION Caution warns you of a potential hazard. If you do not read and follow
instructions carefully at this point, the product could be damaged or
important data could be lost.
NOTE Note highlights important information on using the product.
12 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Regulatory Compliances
The MIDAS IV system is designed according to the recommendations
of international air traffic authorities as presented in the following
sources.
Table 4 International Recommendations Applied to

MIDAS IV RVR Software
Document Name Year
Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation. 2004
Annex 3. ICAO. 15th edition.
Aeronautical Telecommunications. Annex 10. Vol. II 2001
(Communication procedures). ICAO. 6th edition.
Manual of Runway Visual Range Observing and Reporting 2000
Practices. ICAO. 2nd edition.
Manual of Aeronautical Meteorological Practice (Doc 8896). 1997
ICAO. 5th edition.
Trademarks
Microsoft®, Windows®, Windows NT®, Windows® 2000, and
Windows® XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in
U.S. and/or other countries.
License Agreement
All rights to any software are held by Vaisala or third parties. The
customer is allowed to use the software only to the extent that is
provided by the applicable supply contract or Software License
Agreement.
Technical Support
For technical questions, contact the Vaisala technical support:
E-mail helpdesk@vaisala.com
Phone (int.) +358 9 8949 2789
Fax +358 9 8949 2790
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 13
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14 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Chapter 2 __________________________________________________________ Product Overview
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
This chapter gives an overview of the MIDAS IV system and its

components.
Introduction to MIDAS IV
Runway Visual Range System MIDAS IV RVR is an automated system
for observing visibility on the runways.
The system measures, processes, displays, stores, and distributes

meteorological information. It consists of sensors located along the
runway, one or two central data unit computers (CDUs), and one or
several workstations.
The sensors are located along the runways at specific measurement sites
and communicate with the central data units (CDUs), which distribute
the data to the workstations. The system can be single-CDU or
duplicated, that is, it can include one or two CDUs. The CDU validates
the measurement data, calculates the values based on the data, and
distributes the weather data and alarms to user workstations.
The MIDAS IV RVR system collects MOR data from

transmissometers, and/or forward scatter meters, background
luminance data from one or more background luminance sensors, and,
optionally, runway light setting data from a dedicated interface unit.
In user workstations, users can view weather data and alerts with the
Weather View application. The values can be stored in the ASCII Log
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 15
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View application. Event Monitor and Actuals applications are for

monitoring and handling system error situations.
A typical MIDAS IV system is presented in Figure 1 on page 16.
Figure 1
0109-001
A Typical MIDAS IV System
The following numbers refer to Figure 1 on page 16:

1 = Sensor data
2 = Central data unit(s)
3 = Local Area Network
4 = Workstations
MIDAS IV Versions
MIDAS IV RVR is part of the Vaisala MIDAS IV product family, an
integrated family of airport weather systems. The MIDAS IV RVR can
be upgraded and fully integrated with MIDAS IV AWOS, the
Automated Weather Observing System.
All versions can be one of the following types:
- A single-CDU system with workstations

- A single-CDU system without workstations
- A duplicated system with two CDUs
16 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
In a duplicated system both central data units process the same data. If
one of the CDUs fails, the other CDU continues working transparently
to users and without any disruption to system performance. A CDU may
be used as an end-user workstation, too.
For more information on the CDU types, see the appropriate MIDAS IV
Maintenance Manual.
System Configuration
The MIDAS IV system is always configured individually for each
airport to meet the local requirements. During system delivery, Vaisala
personnel will define the system parameters and the layout of some
application windows. This is typical especially with end-user
applications. For instance, the content of the weather data screens in the
Weather View application can be configured according to user
preferences.
CAUTION System configuration is only allowed by authorized Vaisala personnel.
This manual provides a description of the end-user applications and

functions of the system.
Your system might not include all the applications that are available in
MIDAS IV. Thus, your MIDAS IV system might differ slightly from
what is presented in this manual.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 17
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End-user Software Applications

The MIDAS IV software consists of two sets of applications: end-user
applications and system maintenance applications, which are the tools
needed for system troubleshooting.
The following sections include brief descriptions of what each end-user

application is used for.
The MIDAS IV RVR software focuses on the following aspects of

airport weather observation:
- Displaying visibility data (Weather View)

- Ensuring the validity of weather data by monitoring the operation
of the system (Event Monitor).
- In exceptional situations, replacing automatic sensor data with
manual input (Actuals).
- Viewing past weather data (ASCII Log View).
For more information, see the following brief introductions and the
separate chapters later in this manual.
Viewing Current Data
Weather View
The Weather View application is used for viewing current
meteorological data in numerical and graphical format. It can also
display the status of sensors and the status of the data. Optionally, the
Weather View application can include the audiovisual alarm function.
Entering Data Manually
Actuals
The Actuals application is used for entering manual data in the system
when a sensor is being serviced or calibrated. Also manual observations
can be entered for parameters that the system does not measure
automatically.
18 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Viewing Past Data
ASCII Log View

The ASCII Log View application is used for viewing history files that
contain stored meteorological data and events.
Monitoring System Operation
Event Monitor
The Event Monitor application is a tool for monitoring changes in
meteorological conditions and in the operation of sensors and the CDU.
Event Monitor keeps track of system events, such as sensor problems or
internal problems in the CDU, and displays messages informing of
these events. The situation can be monitored by observing the color of
the Event Monitor Status icon on the taskbar of the Windows®
operating system. Optionally, the application can include the voice
alarm function.
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System Maintenance Software Applications

The system maintenance software applications are used for performing
daily system monitoring tasks and for troubleshooting tasks that are
needed less frequently. These applications are tools for maintenance
and administrator level users.
For detailed information, see the appropriate MIDAS IV Maintenance

Manual.
Event Monitor
Event Monitor is also used for system maintenance purposes, see
section Event Monitor on page 19.
Diagnostic Monitor
The Diagnostic Monitor application is used for monitoring the status of
the CDU(s), internal components (ROA objects and services), and
workstation applications.
Sensor Terminal
The Sensor Terminal application is used for viewing the sensor and
field device data. It can also be used for sending commands to sensors
and other field devices.
SensorIO Monitor
SensorIO Monitor is a tool for checking general sensor status and
individual sensor details. It can also be used for saving technical data in
a file for troubleshooting purposes.
20 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Workstation Types
The MIDAS IV system typically includes different workstations for the
following groups of users:
- Air traffic controllers (Weather View Workstation, WV)

- Observers (Observer Workstation, OWS)
- System maintenance personnel (RCM Workstation)
In addition, the MIDAS IV AWOS system usually contains a Forecaster

Workstation (FWS).
The number of different workstations in the system depends on the

configuration of the system. Each workstation type has a preconfigured
workstation environment. Vaisala configures the user profiles (for
example, OWSUSER, WVUSER, and RCM user) for the workstations.
Each workstation includes a different set of applications depending on

the configuration of the system.
For an example of typical MIDAS IV RVR applications in each

workstation type, see Table 5 on page 21.
Table 5 MIDAS IV Applications in Workstations

Application OWS WV RCM
Weather View x x
Event Monitor x x
ASCII Log View x
Actuals x
Diagnostic Monitor x
Sensor Terminal x
SensorIO Monitor x
This manual covers the applications in WV, OWS, and FWS

workstations. There are separate manuals for some applications. Refer
to the list of related manuals. For information on the RCM workstation
and maintenance applications, see the appropriate MIDAS IV
Maintenance Manual.
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Visibility Calculations
The MIDAS IV RVR system collects MOR data from
transmissometers, and/or forward scatter meters, background
luminance data from one or more background luminance sensors, and,
optionally, runway light setting data from a dedicated interface unit.
The RVR calculation module on the CDU then validates the data,
calculates the RVR and visibility values based on the data. The
visibility calculation is based on the following ICAO definition.
Visibility for aeronautical purposes is defined as the greater value of the

following two values:
a. The greatest distance at which a black object of suitable

dimensions, situated near the ground, can be seen and recognized
when observed against a bright background. The distance is
represented by the meteorological optical range (MOR).
b. The greatest distance at which lights in the vicinity of 1000
candelas can be seen and identified against and unlit background.
This distance varies with the background.
The two distances have different values in air of a given extinction

coefficient.
NOTE The prevailing visibility calculation provided in MIDAS IV AWOS is

not included in MIDAS IV RVR system.
22 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Chapter 3 ________________________________________________ Getting Started with MIDAS IV
CHAPTER 3
GETTING STARTED WITH MIDAS IV
This chapter describes logging into the system, starting and exiting the
applications, and the user environment common to all applications.
Logging In
Log into the MIDAS IV computer with a valid Windows user name and
password, which depend on your user profile and the configuration of
the system. They include the necessary rights for all MIDAS IV
applications that you need in the daily tasks. If you receive error
messages when trying to log in, contact system maintenance personnel.
When you log in, the MIDAS IV system will start automatically.
Starting and Exiting Applications

Depending on your user profile and the system configuration, some
applications, typically Weather View and Event Monitor, start
automatically on top of each other when you log into a MIDAS IV
workstation. The Event Monitor and Weather View applications have to
be open at all times.
CAUTION Keep the Weather View and Event Monitor applications open at all
times to be able to view meteorological data, alarms, and system
events. If it is necessary to exit these applications for a special reason,
such as system maintenance, you can do it by pressing ALT + F4.
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To start the other applications, click the corresponding buttons on the

MIDAS IV Application Toolbar, or select them from the Start menu:
Start - Programs - Vaisala MIDAS IV and the name of the
application. Most of these applications do not have to be open at all
times. You can close these applications whenever you do not need them
by selecting Exit from the File menu.
MIDAS IV User Interface

When you log in, the MIDAS IV system will start automatically.
Depending on your user profile and system configuration, some
applications open automatically. Others can be opened using the
MIDAS IV Application Toolbar or the Start menu. The application
windows can be resized and arranged to make them visible at a glance.
Figure 2
0211-073
MIDAS IV RVR User Interface
24 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B

1 = Application Toolbar
2 = Application windows (Weather View, Event Monitor)
3 = Taskbar
4 = Note field
5 = System Status icon
6 = Event Monitor Status icon
MIDAS IV Application Toolbar

The Application Toolbar appears at the Windows desktop. The toolbar
contains the buttons for starting most of the MIDAS IV applications
configured for your user profile and the MIDAS IV system you are
using. Thus, the Application Toolbar might look different depending on
what applications are included in the system. Depending on the system
configuration, some applications may be started from the Start menu.
The Application Toolbar is always on top, that is, always visible on the
Windows desktop. Applications can be started by clicking the
corresponding toolbar button. When an application is open, its icon is
displayed on the taskbar.
Figure 3
0211-074
MIDAS IV Application Toolbar
The typical buttons on the MIDAS IV Application Toolbar are

presented in the following table.
Table 6 MIDAS IV RVR Application Toolbar Buttons

Button Description
Weather View opens the Weather View application.
Event Monitor opens the Event Monitor application.
ASCII Log View opens the ASCII Log View application.
Actuals opens the Actuals application.
Sends the text in the note field to other MIDAS IV workstations.
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CAUTION The Application Toolbar must be open at all times. If it is necessary to

close the toolbar for a special reason, such as system maintenance,
consider the operational situation carefully before closing the toolbar.
To close the toolbar, activate the toolbar and press ALT+F4. The
system asks if you want to close all MIDAS IV applications. If you
want to close the Application Toolbar only, click No.
Note Field
At the top of the main window on the right, there is a field for notes.
Short messages to all workstations in the MIDAS IV system can be sent
using the field. To send a message, do the following:
1. Type the message text in the note field.

2. Click the Send button. The message is distributed to all
workstations in the system.
System Status Icon

The System Status icon appears on the taskbar of the Windows®
operating system after the Application Toolbar is opened. See Figure 4
on page 26.
Figure 4
0305-055
System Status Icon
The System Status icon indicates two things: which CDU is active and
what the status of that CDU is. The letter in the icon indicates which
CDU is the active CDU: letter A in systems that have one CDU, and
letter A or B in systems that have two CDUs.
In normal situations, the color of the icon is green. Red color indicates
system problems.
CAUTION If the System Status icon is red, contact system maintenance

immediately.
26 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Event Monitor Status Icon

The Event Monitor Status icon appears when the Event Monitor
application is opened. See Figure 5 on page 27.
Figure 5
0305-056
The Event Monitor Status icon indicates if there are new events in
Event Monitor. When the icon is red or blue, there are new events which
need to be acknowledged in the Event Monitor application.
For more information on monitoring and acknowledging events, see

Chapter 5, Event Monitor, on page 49.
Operating MIDAS IV
This section describes only functions that are common to all MIDAS IV
applications. For detailed descriptions, see the application-specific
chapters.
Selecting MIDAS IV Functions

To select the functions in MIDAS IV applications, do one of the
following:
- Select the menu options from the menu, for example, click File -
Open.
- Use the shortcut key combinations, for example CTRL+O, if
available (indicated in the menu).
- Click the buttons on the toolbar of each application.
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Switching between Applications

Usually there are several applications open simultaneously. To switch
from one application to another, do one of the following:
- In the Application Toolbar, click the icon of the application you

want to switch to. See section MIDAS IV Application Toolbar on
page 25.
- On the taskbar, click the corresponding button.
Arranging Windows
The windows can be resized and moved around on the screen. If all the
data does not fit into the resized windows, use the scroll bars to view the
data.
Showing, Hiding, and Moving

Toolbars in Applications
The toolbars in all MIDAS IV applications can be hidden. This is useful
if you prefer to use menu options for selecting functions, or if you need
more room on the screen.
To show or hide the toolbar of the active application, do the following:
1. Select the View menu. If there is a check mark next to the Toolbar
option on the menu, the toolbar is shown on the screen.
2. Click the Toolbar option to remove the check mark. The toolbar
will not be displayed on the screen.
To move the toolbar to a new location within the application window,

do the following:
1. Move the mouse cursor over the gray background of the toolbar
(not over an icon).
2. Press and hold down the left mouse button and drag the toolbar to
the new location.
3. Release the left mouse button.
28 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Showing and Hiding Status Bars

Each application has a status bar at the bottom of the screen. The status
bar contains general information and short instructions on the
application. To show or hide the status bar of the active application, do
the following:
1. Select the View menu. If there is a check mark next to the Status
Bar option on the menu, the status bar is shown on the screen.
2. Click the Status Bar option to remove the check mark. The status
bar will not be displayed on the screen.
Printing
If the system includes a local or network printer, the active application
window can be printed. Select the Print option, which is on the first
menu of each application.
The printer and paper settings can be changed with the Print Setup
option, which is always on the first menu of each application.
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30 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Chapter 4 _____________________________________________________________ Weather View
CHAPTER 4
WEATHER VIEW
This chapter contains instructions for viewing meteorological data

using the Weather View application.
Introduction to Weather View

The Weather View application shows instant and average values for
RVR (Runway Visual Range) and visibility parameters in graphical and
numerical format. The values are updated several times a minute, as the
system collects and processes new sensor data. Weather View also
displays the status of RVR data.
Optionally, Weather View can also include audiovisual alarms and

weather data fields for other weather parameters.
Weather View User Interface

The Weather View user interface consists of the menus, the toolbar, and
the weather data screens. The weather data screens typically consist of
identification data, RVR and visibility data fields and graphical fields.
These elements are briefly explained in the following sections. For

instructions on using Weather View, see section Operating Weather
View on page 41.
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Weather Data Screens

Weather View includes several weather data screens that show weather
parameters in various formats. When Weather View is opened, screen 1
appears by default. Other screens can be displayed by clicking the
corresponding button on Weather View toolbar.
NOTE Weather data screens are individually configured for each system.
Thus, the screens presented in this chapter might not include the same
components as the ones in your system.
The typical elements in the Weather View application are presented in

the following figure. The location of the elements in the screen depends
on the configuration.
Figure 6
0211-075
Weather View: Sample Weather Data Screen
32 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B

1 = RVR data in graphical format
2 = RVR data in data fields
3 = Runway identification data
4 = Runway light setting used in RVR assessment
5 = Background luminance
A sample of a weather data screen displaying present weather data is

presented in Figure 7 on page 33.
Figure 7
0211-076
Weather View: Sample Weather Data Screen
Identification Data
Time, date, and runway information are displayed in the weather data
screens. The location in the screen depends on the configuration of the
system. These fields show the UTC time from the computer clock, the
current date, and the runways for which the data is shown.
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Weather Data Fields

The visibility and RVR data are presented in data fields. Depending on
the system configuration, also data fields for other data, such as, wind
speed, may be displayed in the data fields.
The data on Weather View screens come from the sensors that are
located along the runway, and it is updated automatically several times
a minute. Some of the values are instant, which means that they come
from a sensor without delay. Some are average values, which means
that the system first collects data (typically for a 2- or 10-minute period)
and then calculates the average value from that data.
The data is processed data, not raw sensor data. This means that when
values come from sensors to the CDU, the system checks that values fall
within the specified range for that sensor. Values are also rounded and
displayed according to ICAO recommendations and converted to
appropriate measurement units.
Data Field Status

The background of the data field indicates the status of the weather data.
For explanation of the typical colors, see Table 7 on page 34. In some
special systems the colors may differ from the typical set of colors.
When the data field status is not normal, see section Troubleshooting
Weather View on page 46 for some general instructions for solving
problems. Check also the local practices at the airport.
Table 7 Weather View: Weather Data Field Statuses
Background Status Description

Gray Normal The data is OK.
Red Invalid The data is not valid or it is out of the preset
validation limits. There are problems in sensor
calibration.
White Old The data is not updated. There are problems in
sensor communication.
///// Missing The data is not available because of problems
in the system, or the system has just been
restarted and there is not enough data
available yet.
Light blue Backup Data is coming from a backup sensor (other
than visibility sensor), because of problems
with the primary sensor.
34 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Table 7 Weather View: Weather Data Field Statuses

(Continued)
Background Status Description
Yellow Manual Data is entered manually by the user in the
Actuals application while maintenance is fixing
a sensor problem.
In Weather View, slashes in the data fields indicate missing data.

Normally, missing values are a sign of system problems. However, if
the system has been restarted, for example, after system maintenance,
missing average values are a part of normal operation. When the CDUs
have been restarted, the statuses are as follows:
- Instant values appear immediately in Weather View data fields,

and their data status is normal.
- Average values remain missing until the system has collected
enough data to calculate valid average values.
When the connection between a sensor and the CDU is broken, or when
a sensor is out of order, the data status on Weather View screens turns
to Invalid. The values will disappear from data fields and they are
indicated as missing with slashes.
- For instant values, the transition from invalid to missing happens

very quickly.
- For average values the transition happens more slowly. First, the
background color of average values turns red or white. The data
remains in the data fields until the system reaches the validation
limit. Validation limit is approximately 40 % of the entire average
period. In a 2-minute average, this would be 50 seconds. In a 10-
minute average, the validation limit would be 4 minutes. After the
validation limit is passed, values disappear from data fields. The
system replaces them with slashes (/////).
Figure 8 on page 36 presents the behavior of average values and their

data status during system restart.
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Background color red or white Background color gray, values missing (/////)
Sensor Validation limit Total average

disconnected (40% of total average calculation
or out of order calculation period) period
Figure 8
0207-013
Data Status of Average Values in Problem Situations
Graphical Fields (Optional)

Depending on the configuration of the system, Weather View can also
include graphical fields.
Figure 9
0207-077
A Sample Graphical Field in Weather View
If the system includes more than one runway, all runways can be shown
in the same graph.
CAUTION A graph continues collecting data until it is closed. If you close a

screen, the data collected by the graph will be lost. This could be
harmful if the graph collects long-term trend data (for example, 48-
hour trend).
36 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
The scale of graphical fields can be adjusted using the Graph Scales
window which can be accessed by right-clicking the graph. See Figure
10 on page 37.
Figure 10
0207-078
Weather View: Graph Scales Window
The Graph Scales window contains selections for the vertical scale and
the time scale. The elements are described in Table 8 on page 37.
Table 8 Weather View: Graph Scales Window Elements

Element Description
Min The minimum value on the vertical axis
Max The maximum value on the vertical axis
Step The gridline interval for the vertical axis
Auto Scale 1 Automatically adjusts the vertical scale so that all data is
shown in the graph
Hours The value on the horizontal axis, that is, the period for
which the systems collects the data for the graph
1. Can be used only if the graph includes one parameter
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Audiovisual Alarms
If the system includes the audiovisual alarm function, a blinking alarm
frame is shown around the weather data field and a beeping alarm is
sounded, for example, when a weather parameter value exceeds a
preconfigured limit.
Alarm Window (Optional)

Depending on the system configuration, also an alarm window may be
displayed. The example alarm window presented in the following figure
includes the details of the alarm.
Figure 11
0207-016
Weather View: Alarm Window
The name of the alarm group is displayed in the title bar of the alarm
window, for example, the Observer group.
38 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
The Alarm window buttons and fields are explained in Table 9 on page
39.
Table 9 Weather View: Alarm Window Elements

Element Description
Seconds for Shows the time after which the alarm will be
automatic alarm ack automatically acknowledged.
Message Shows the detailed alarm message.
Time Shows the time of the alarm.
ACKNOWLEDGE The alarm can be acknowledged by clicking this
ALARM button.
Menu Bar
The Weather View functions can be selected from the menu bar.
Typical Weather View menus and menu commands are presented in the
following tables.
Table 10 Weather View: Display Menu

Command Description
Screen 1 (1 - 10) Opens the selected screen
Refresh Refreshes the active screen
Colors (Optional) Selects a color scheme, if configured
Open Opens a new screen
Close Closes the active screen
Print Prints the active screen
Print Setup Opens a window for changing the printer and paper
settings
Table 11 Weather View: Edit Menu

Command Description
Copy As Bitmap Copies the screen as a bitmap image to the
Clipboard
Table 12 Weather View: View Menu

Command Description
Toolbar Shows/Hides the Weather View toolbar
Status Bar Shows/Hides the Weather View status bar
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Table 13 Weather View: Window Menu

Command Description
Arrange Icons Arranges minimized window icons
Close All Closes all open screens
Screen 1 (1 - 10) Displays the selected screen
Toolbar
Toolbar is the fastest way to switch between the weather data screens.
The Weather View can include up to ten screens. Each screen has a
corresponding button. Typical buttons on the Weather View toolbar are
presented in Table 14 on page 40.
Table 14 Weather View Toolbar Buttons

Button Name and Description
"1" opens the first screen, "2" the second screen
and so on.
Print prints the current screen.
Status Bar
The status bar displays information on the current state of Weather
View. The status bar also shows context-sensitive help texts on Weather
View buttons. When you move the mouse over a button, a short
description of the button is shown on the status bar.
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Operating Weather View
Starting and Exiting Weather View

The Weather View application starts automatically when you log in to
a MIDAS IV workstation. You must keep it open at all times to ensure
that the system can update the data on the screen.
CAUTION Do not exit the Weather View application unless you have a special
reason, such as system maintenance. If it is necessary to exit Weather
View for a special reason, you can do it by pressing ALT+F4.
When you do not need to view the Weather View data, you can
minimize the Weather View application.
Opening and Closing Weather Data

Screens
When Weather View starts, Screen 1 is automatically displayed.
Depending on the configuration of the system, there might be several
weather data screens.
To open other weather data screens, do one of the following:
- Open the Display menu and select the screen you want to open, for
example, Screen 1.
- Click the appropriate toolbar button, for example, for Screen 1.

- Use the numeric keypad on the keyboard. Press the NumLock key
so that the NumLock light on the keyboard is on. Then select the
number for the screen, for example, numeric key 1 for Screen 1.
To close the active screen open the Display menu and select Close.
To close all open screens, open the Window menu and select Close All.
CAUTION When you close a screen that includes graphical data, the data is lost.
This could be harmful in case the graph collects long-term trend data
(for example, 48-hour trend).
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Monitoring Weather Data and Status

To monitor weather data and status, do the following:
1. Monitor the data in data fields, wind roses, and graphs. You can
change the scale of graphs, see section Adjusting Graph Scales on
page 44.
2. Monitor all the needed screens.
3. Monitor the background color of the data fields. If it turns to red,
white, yellow, or light blue, or if there are slashes in the data fields,
contact the maintenance personnel. For more information on the
colors and the procedure in problem situations, see section
Troubleshooting Weather View on page 46.
4. If an alarm window or an alarm frame is displayed, read the alarm
message in the alarm window and acknowledge the alarm.
Your system might also have been configured to display values on a red
background if the value is out of predefined range.
CAUTION The Weather View application displays the weather data that the
system is configured to display. The layout, number, and order of data
fields and wind roses, as well as the status colors, are configured
individually for each system. Thus the colors in your system might
differ from the ones presented here.
Acknowledging Audiovisual Alarms

(Optional)
If the system includes the audiovisual alarm function, there is blinking
alarm frame and a beeping alarm sound in Weather View when a
weather parameter value exceeds a preconfigured limit. The alarm will
be acknowledged automatically after a preconfigured time.
Optionally, also an alarm window may be displayed. To acknowledge

the alarm in the alarm window, do the following:
1. When an alarm window appears on the screen, read the message

text in the alarm window.
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2. Acknowledge the alarm by clicking the Acknowledge Alarm

button. The alarm window and the blinking frame disappear from
the screen, and the beeping sound ends.
3. Respond to the alarm in accordance with the airport-specific
practices.
4. If there is another alarm window under the acknowledged one,
acknowledge it by clicking its Acknowledge Alarm button.
CAUTION The alarm can appear in any of the open weather data screens, not just
the one you are currently viewing.
If you do not acknowledge the alarm, it disappears automatically after

a preconfigured time. The Seconds for automatic alarm ack field
shows the time remaining until the system performs an automatic
acknowledgement.
Simultaneous Alarms
Several alarms can be active simultaneously. If you have not
acknowledged an alarm before a new one appears, values related to both
alarms blink on the screen at the same time. The new alarm window
appears on top of the previous one.
NOTE When you acknowledge the latest alarm, remember that there can be
previous alarm windows underneath it. Be sure to read and
acknowledge all the alarms.
Alarm Groups
Depending on the system configuration, workstations of the same kind
(for example, OWS workstations) can form an alarm group. The name
of the group is displayed on the title bar of the Alarm window. The
alarms are shown on all workstations of the group, and any user
belonging to that group can acknowledge it. When one user
acknowledges the alarm, the alarm window disappears from the screens
of all group members.
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Viewing Stored Alarms

You can view the alarm information in the Event Monitor application.
For more information, see Chapter 5, Event Monitor, on page 49.
Depending on the system configuration, you can view the alarms in the
history files. You can view them with the ASCII Log View application.
For more information, see Chapter 6, ASCII Log View, on page 67.
Adjusting Graph Scales

If the system includes graphical fields, you can adjust the vertical graph
scale, the horizontal time scale, and the gridline steps manually.
To adjust the graph scales, do the following:
1. From the Display menu, select the weather data screen you want to
work with, for example Screen 1.
2. Right-click the graph for which you want to adjust the scale. The
Graph Scales window is displayed with the name of the parameter
at the top of the window.
3. If you wish to keep the original values for later use, copy them from
the window before proceeding.
4. In the Min and Max fields, enter the minimum and maximum
values you want to include in the graph. These are the values on the
vertical axis. If your system includes two runways, both runways
can be shown in the same graph. Adjust the scale so that it is large
enough to fully display both runways.
CAUTION The system does not check the validity of the graph scale values that
you enter. Make sure the scale is large enough.
5. In the Step field, enter the desired gridline interval for the vertical
axis. The minimum step value you can use is (Max-Min)/10. If you
enter a lower value, Weather View corrects the scale automatically
using the minimum step.
6. In the Time Scale list box, select the period (1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 24, or
48 h) for which you want the system to collect data in the same
graph. You can also select a time period by entering it in the field.
This will be the value on the horizontal axis.
7. Close the Graph Scales window by clicking OK.
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8. The system displays a message window informing you that the

original values will be lost. See Figure 12 on page 45.
Figure 12
0207-017
Graph Scale Change Warning Window
- If you are satisfied with the values you have entered, select
Yes and the graph scale will be immediately updated with the
settings you specified. The last entered settings are saved in
the system until you change them again.
- If you want to change the values, select No, and adjust the
values again.
Using Auto Scale in Graphs

If you do not want to adjust the vertical graph scale manually, you can
use the Auto Scale function. When this function is selected, the system
automatically fits the parameter values into the scale. When new data
comes in, the system automatically updates these values so that all data
is always shown in the graph. Auto Scale can be useful for parameters
with great variation, such as visibility.
NOTE Auto Scale cannot be used with graphs that include more than one
parameter.
To use the Auto Scale function, do the following:
1. From the Display menu, select the weather data screen you want to
work with.
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2. Right-click the graph for which you want to adjust the scale. The
Graph Scales window opens.
3. Select the Auto Scale check box.
4. Close the Graph Scales window by clicking OK.
Troubleshooting Weather View

If you detect problems in Weather View, first check the Event Monitor
messages for more details on the situation. For more information, see
Chapter 5, Event Monitor, on page 49. If there are problems with the
sensors, the name of the sensor is included in the Event Monitor
message. Make a note of the sensor and report the information to
maintenance personnel.
Maintenance personnel will also tell you if you need to set a sensor to
Backup or Manual mode in the Actuals application.
The following table lists some problems that might occur when you are
using Weather View and some typical solutions to the problems. Check
the local practices for more detailed instructions.
NOTE In Weather View, slashes in data fields indicate missing data.

Normally, missing values are a sign of system problems. However,
right after the system has been restarted, missing average values are a
part of MIDAS IV data handling routine.
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Table 15 Troubleshooting Weather View

Problem Probable Cause Solution
There are slashes (/////) in The data is missing because of Check the Event Monitor messages.
data fields. problems in the system. If there is no DATA MISSING
message, wait for 10 minutes. The
data status should change back to
normal (gray data field background).
The system has been recently If the slashes remain in the fields,
restarted and there is not enough contact maintenance. If instructed to
data available yet. do so by the maintenance personnel,
set the sensor to Backup or Manual
mode in the Actuals application.
Data field background is The data is invalid, or out of the Contact maintenance.
red. preset validation limits because of
problems in sensor calibration.
Data field background is The data is not updated by the Wait for 5 minutes to see if the
white. system because of problems in background color of the data field
sensor communication. changes to gray (normal status). If
slashes appear in the data field
(missing status), contact
maintenance.
Data field background is The sensor is in manual mode Contact maintenance for more
yellow and values do not because of problems with the information.
change. sensor.
Data field background is The data comes from a backup Contact maintenance for more
light blue. sensor, because of problems with information.
the primary sensor.
Cloudbase height and NCD (No Clouds Detected) No action is needed.
instant cloud height value is appears automatically in cloud
NCD. data fields when the system has
detected a VER VIS condition.
There are two or more There are several alarm windows Read and acknowledge all alarms.
alarm windows or alarm on top of each other because the
frames blinking on the previous alarms have not been
screen at the same time. acknowledged.
There is an alarm window Your workstation belongs to an You can view the stored alarms in
on the screen, but it alarm group, and another Event Monitor and, depending on the
disappears before you can member of the group has already configuration, in ASCII Log View. For
acknowledge it. acknowledged the alarm, or the more information, see Chapter 5,
system has acknowledged the Event Monitor, on page 49, and
alarm automatically after the Chapter 6, ASCII Log View, on page
preconfigured period. 67.
There is no curve in the The graph scale is incorrectly Right-click the graph and adjust the
graph or the curve appears defined. scale in the Graph Scales window.
as a straight line.
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Chapter 5 _____________________________________________________________ Event Monitor
CHAPTER 5
EVENT MONITOR
This chapter contains instructions for viewing Event messages in the

Event Monitor application.
Introduction to Event Monitor

The Event Monitor application monitors system events. When a system
event occurs, the color of the Event Monitor Status icon on the taskbar
changes to red and an event message is displayed in Event Monitor. The
user has to acknowledge the event, and based on the type and status of
the event, decide on further action.
Event Monitor can also be used in the Bottom Line mode: instead of
the entire Event Monitor window, a single line that shows one event at
a time at the bottom of the screen can be displayed.
Optionally, Event Monitor can include the voice alarm function. A

speech synthesizer speaks aloud the alarms as they appear. If the system
includes a log printer, all events can be printed automatically as they
occur.
NOTE Before reading this chapter, find out the event monitoring practices at
your airport. Event Monitor is a tool primarily intended for observers
and maintenance personnel. At some airports, the task of monitoring
events belongs either completely or partially to observers. At some
airports, it belongs to maintenance personnel.
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Event Monitor User Interface

The Event Monitor user interface consists of the Event Monitor Status
icon on the taskbar, the Event Monitor window, the menus, and the
toolbar. These elements are briefly described in the following sections.
For specific instructions on how to use the application, see section
Operating Event Monitor on page 56.

The Event Monitor Status icon is located on the taskbar of the
Windows® operating system, next to the System Status icon. See
Figure 13 on page 50.
Figure 13
0109-009
The color of the icon shows if there are events in Event Monitor and
whether the events have been acknowledged or not. The colors are
explained in the following table.
CAUTION The Event Monitor icon shows only the status of the events that have
been selected for viewing from the View menu. For example, if you
have selected only View - Technical Events, and the Event Monitor
icon is green, there can be unacknowledged events of another type.
Table 16 Event Monitor Status Icon Colors

Icon Color Explanation
Red There are unacknowledged events.
Yellow All events have been acknowledged by the user.
Green There are no events.
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Event Monitor Window

When the Event Monitor application is opened, the Event Monitor
window with messages sent by the system appears. The messages
inform the users of system events, such as changed weather conditions
and problems in the system. These messages have different types and
statuses.
Figure 14
0501-046
Event Monitor Window (Duplicated System)
NOTE The figure shows event messages created during software test
conditions. Normally, Event Monitor includes fewer event messages,
and the periods between messages are longer.
The following sections describe the items in the Event Monitor

window.
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Event Monitor Window Columns

On the left in the Event Monitor window, there is an icon in front of
each event message. When an event message first appears, the icon is
red. When the event has been acknowledged, the icon turns yellow.
Table 17 Event Monitor Window Icon Colors

Icon Color Explanation
Red Unacknowledged event
Yellow Acknowledged event
The contents of the Event Monitor window columns are described in

Table 18 on page 52.
Table 18 Event Monitor Window Columns

Column Name Description
Time Shows the time when the event was generated by the
system, or the acknowledgement time of the event. The
events are shown either oldest first, or latest first. Click the
Time column heading to change the order.
Message Shows the actual message text. In case of sensor-related
messages, this column shows a description of the problem
and the name of the problem sensor.
Site Shows the code of the measurement site to which the
message is related. In systems that include data collectors,
the site code refers to a data collector that has several
sensors connected to it.
Type Shows the type of the event message.
Status Shows the status of the event message.
When you right-click on the Time or Message column, the following

option is displayed:
Table 19 Event Monitor: Quick Menu

Command Description
Acknowledge Marks the selected event as acknowledged
Selected
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When you right-click the Site column, the following options are
displayed:
Table 20 Event Monitor: Quick Menu

Command Description
Show All Sites Displays events from all sites
Show Empty Displays events that are not connected to any site
Sites
System Displays system events
Site codes, for Displays events only from the selected site
example, 05
Each event is caused by a situation that the user needs to notice, or a

problem that must be fixed. The Type column provides further
information on the cause of the message, as presented in the following
table.
Table 21 Event Monitor Type Column

Type Explanation
OPER There is a predefined change in visibility.
(Operational)
TECH There is a communication problem between the CDU and a
(Technical) sensor, or another unusual technical problem.
NONE There is an unusual serious internal problem, for example,
(Internal) within the CDU.
Message notifications is another type of Event Monitor messages,

indicating sent weather reports and included typically only in MIDAS
IV AWOS. The icon color for unacknowledged messages is blue.
The Status column provides information about the status of the event,
as presented in the following table.
Table 22 Event Monitor Status Column

Status Explanation
ALARM There is a significant change in visibility or a serious
internal problem.
WARNING There is a serious technical problem.
ACKED The user has acknowledged the event. The problem may
still exist.
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Menu Bar
The Event Monitor functions can be selected from the menu bar.
Typical Event Monitor menus and menu commands are presented in the
following tables.
Table 23 Event Monitor: Event Menu

Command Description
Save As Saves the active screen to a file you specify
Acknowledge Marks the selected event as acknowledged. If you
have not selected an event, marks the oldest
unacknowledged event as acknowledged (which is
selected by default).
Voice (Optional) Turns the voice alarm function on and off
settings
Exit Exits/Closes the Event Monitor application
Table 24 Event Monitor: View Menu

Command Description
Bottom Line Displays a single event, or the selected number of
events at the bottom of the screen
All events Displays all events
Internal Events Displays only internal events
Technical Events Displays only technical events
Operational Events Displays only operational events
Toolbar Shows/Hides the Event Monitor toolbar
Status Bar Shows/Hides the Event Monitor status bar
Hide when minimized Hides the Event Monitor button from the taskbar
Table 25 Event Monitor: Help Menu

Command Description
About Event Monitor Displays software version and copyright information
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Toolbar
Toolbar is the fastest way of selecting the most frequently needed
functions. Typical buttons on the Event Monitor toolbar are described
in Table 26 on page 55.
Table 26 Event Monitor Toolbar Buttons

Save As saves the active screen to a file.
Copy copies the active screen to the Clipboard.
Acknowledge marks the selected event as acknowledged. If
you have not selected an event, marks the oldest
unacknowledged event as acknowledged (which is selected by
default).
Bottom Line displays a single event, or the selected number of
events at the bottom of the screen.
Voice turns the voice alarm function on and off (optional).
Print prints the active screen.
Status Bar
The status bar displays information on the current state of Event
Monitor. It also shows context-sensitive help texts on the Event Monitor
buttons. When you move the mouse over a button, a short description of
the button is shown on the status bar.
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Operating Event Monitor
Starting and Exiting Event Monitor

The Event Monitor application starts automatically when you log in.
You must keep the application open at all times to ensure a constant
flow of event messages.
When you do not need to view the Event Monitor window, you can
minimize it or use it in the Bottom Line mode. For more information,
see section Viewing Events in Bottom Line Mode on page 59.
To open a minimized Event Monitor, click the Event Monitor button

or the Event Monitor Status icon on the taskbar.
CAUTION Do not exit Event Monitor unless you have a special reason, such as
system maintenance. If it is necessary to exit Event Monitor for a
special reason, you can do it by selecting Exit from the Event menu.
Monitoring and Acknowledging

Events
When you have read an event message, you must mark it as
acknowledged without delay. This is how you inform the system that
you have seen the message. The system then stores the event in a history
file, together with the time of acknowledgement.
A typical event monitoring procedure is described below. Check the

airport-specific practices for a detailed procedure.
1. Monitor the Event Monitor Status icon on the taskbar. When the
icon turns red or blue, there are unacknowledged events.
2. In the Event Monitor window, select the event that you want to
acknowledge by clicking it with the mouse.
3. Then click the Acknowledge button on the toolbar. The

system marks the selected event as acknowledged and the color of
the icon next to the message turns yellow. The selection bar moves
to the oldest unacknowledged event.
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NOTE If you do not select an event, the oldest unacknowledged event is

selected by default, and thus marked as acknowledged when you click
the Acknowledge button.
4. Check the type and status of the event message and act as follows:
- If the message type is OPER, there is a preconfigured change

in visibility. Act according to your airport-specific practices.
- If the message type is TECH or NONE (internal), contact
maintenance.
CAUTION Acknowledging an event indicates that you have seen the message and
marked it. However, if the event was caused by a problem, the problem
condition continues even after you have acknowledged the event until
maintenance has fixed it.
For information on event statuses, types, and needed action, see the
following table.
Table 27 Event Statuses, Types, and Needed Action

Status Type Situation Action
ALARM Internal There is an unusual, serious internal problem, for Contact
(NONE) example, problems within the CDU. maintenance.
ALARM Operational There is a preconfigured change in the visibility. Act according to
(OPER) your airport-specific
instructions.
WARNING Technical There is a communication problem between the Contact
(TECH) CDU and a sensor, or another unusual, serious maintenance.
technical problem.
ACKED All types The event has been acknowledged. The problem See other types
may still exist. above.
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Using the Voice Alarm Function

If the system includes the optional voice alarm function, a speech
synthesizer reads out the event messages as they appear. When you hear
the message, check the details on the Event Monitor window and
acknowledge the message.
The voice alarm function only reads out the event types that have been
selected for viewing. Every message is only read out once.
You can turn the voice alarm function on and off again. When the voice
alarm function is off, event messages appear on the screen normally, but
the speech synthesizer will not read them out.
You can turn the voice alarm function on and off in either of the
following ways:
- Selecting Voice from the Event menu

- Clicking the Voice button on the Event Monitor toolbar
When there is a check mark in front of the Voice option on the Event
menu, the voice alarm function is on.
NOTE When you turn the voice alarm function on again, the speech
synthesizer starts reading out the event messages as they appear,
beginning with the first new message. Messages that were displayed
during the time the voice alarm function was turned off, are not
spoken. Instead, you need to check them in the Event Monitor
window.
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Viewing Events in Bottom Line

Mode
You can minimize the Event Monitor window into a single event line
at the bottom of the screen. This is referred to as the Bottom Line mode.
You can also select to view more than one row.
Turning On Bottom Line Mode

To turn on the Bottom Line mode, do the following:
1. Open the Event Monitor window and make sure it is not

maximized.
2. Click the Bottom Line button in the Event Monitor toolbar. The
Event Monitor window will be displayed as a single line at the
bottom of the screen, showing only the latest event. An example of
the Bottom Line mode with single event line is presented in Figure
15 on page 59.
Figure 15
0501-020
Event Monitor: Bottom Line Mode
Bottom Line mode is automatically in the Always on Top mode.

However, if you use the Windows Auto Hide option, the Bottom Line
occasionally disappears under Windows taskbar. To better view the
Bottom Line mode, disable the Windows Auto Hide function. Use the
Windows tools to change the taskbar settings. For more information,
see the operating system manuals.
The menu selections and toolbar buttons are not available in Bottom
Line view. To use them, you have to return to normal mode. However,
if you have selected to view only some event types, only the selected
types will be displayed in Bottom Line view.
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Viewing Several Rows in Bottom Line Mode

To select to view more than one row in Bottom Line mode, do the
following:
1. In the Bottom Line view, press the CTRL button down, right-
click, and select the Bottomline Rows option.
2. In the Bottomline Rows window, enter the number of rows (1 - 20)
in the Number of rows field. The Event Monitor window will be
displayed with as many lines you just selected. For an example, see
Figure 16
0501-021
Event Monitor: Bottom Line Mode with Several
Rows
In this mode you can view all messages by scrolling the scroll bar on the
right. You can also sort the messages.
Turning Off Bottom Line Mode

To turn off the Bottom Line mode, do the following:
- Double-click the white area of the Bottom Line mode.
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Viewing Event Monitor Always on

Top
To select that the Event Monitor application is always displayed on top
of other windows, do the following:
- On the Event Monitor window, press the CTRL button down,

right-click, and select the Always on Top option.
To get back to normal mode, do the following:
- Press the CTRL button down again, right-click, and remove the
check mark by clicking the Always on Top option.
When you switch to the Bottom Line mode, Event Monitor is
automatically in the Always on Top mode. Also when you get back to
the normal mode, the Always on Top selection is removed.
Viewing Selected Event Types

You can select which event types are displayed in Event Monitor. This
function must be used with care. All events need to be monitored by
some user group at the airport on a regular basis. Which events you need
to view depends on the organization of your airport.
For instance, if maintenance personnel take care of viewing Technical

and Internal events, you can select to view only Operational events.
CAUTION All event types must be monitored by some user group at the airport.
Otherwise, there is a risk of data loss and incorrect operation of the
MIDAS IV system. The practice of monitoring events may vary by
airport so before you select to view only some event types, make sure
that someone is monitoring all the other event types.
By default, events of all types are shown. To select the event types you
want to view, do the following:
1. Open the Event Monitor window.

2. From the View menu, select the type you want to view. A check
mark will appear in front of the selected type. The event list is
immediately updated to only show the event type you selected.
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3. Continue until you have selected all the event types you wish to
view.
To view all events again, select All events from the View menu.
CAUTION The Event Monitor icon shows only the status of the events that have
been selected for viewing from the View menu. For example, if you
have selected only View - Technical Events, and the Event Monitor
icon is green, there can be unacknowledged events of another type.
Viewing Events from Selected Sites

You can select the sites whose events are displayed in Event Monitor.
This is useful, for example, when troubleshooting problems in a
particular site. This function must be used with care. All sites need to be
monitored by some user group at the airport on a regular basis.
CAUTION All operational sites types must be monitored. Otherwise, there is a

risk of data loss and incorrect operation of the MIDAS IV system.
Before you select to view only events from some sites, make sure that
someone is monitoring all the other operational sites.
By default, events from all sites are shown. To select the site whose
events you want to view, do the following:
1. Open the Event Monitor window.

2. Right-click on the Site column. From the quick menu that is
displayed, select the site code whose events you want to view. A
check mark will appear in front of the selected site. The event list
is immediately updated to only show the events from the sites you
selected.
3. Continue until you have selected all the sites that you wish to view.
To view system events, select System. To view events from sites
that are not associated with any site, select Show Empty Sites.
4. When you want to view all sites again, right-click on the Site
columns, and select Show All Sites.
CAUTION The Event Monitor icon shows only the status of the events from the
sites that have been selected for viewing from the View menu.
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Viewing Stored Events

All statuses of a single event are stored in history files, which you can
view with the ASCII Log View application. In the history files, the
entire event chain can be seen: the time the event was first shown in the
Event Monitor window, the time it was acknowledged, and the time
the problem causing it was fixed.
Technical (TECH) and Internal (NONE) events are displayed on the

Event Monitor window until the problem causing them has been fixed.
Operational (OPER) events are displayed on the Event Monitor
window for as long as the condition causing the event message exists.
When the problem has been fixed or the condition causing the event has
passed, the event status changes to OVER and the event message
disappears from the Event Monitor window.
The OVER status is shown only in the history files, which you can view
with the ASCII Log View application. You can use the history files to
track, for example, how long it took for a problem to be solved.
An example of the event chain is presented in the following table.
Table 28 An Example of the Event Chain

Event Icon Color Event Monitor Message and ASCII Log View Message
Status and Status
Communication RED 09:38 MITRAS DATA MISSING, 09:38 MITRAS DATA
between Status: ALARM MISSING, Status: 3
transmissometer and
CDU corrupted at
09:38
Observer notices YELLOW 09:43 MITRAS DATA MISSING, 09:43 MITRAS DATA
and acknowledges Status: ACKED MISSING, Status: 1
the event at 09:43
Maintenance fixes - Message disappears from Event 10:09 MITRAS DATA
the problem at 10:09 Monitor MISSING Status: 0 (= over)
For more information on using ASCII Log View, see Chapter 6, ASCII
Log View, on page 67.
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Hiding the Event Monitor Button

The Event Monitor button is displayed on the Windows taskbar by
default. Because the Event Monitor Status icon is always on the
taskbar, you may wish to hide the Event Monitor button.
To hide the Event Monitor button, do the following:
1. In the Event Monitor window, open the View menu and select
Hide when minimized.
2. Minimize the Event Monitor window. Now the Event Monitor
button does not appear on the taskbar. When you want to open the
Event Monitor window, double-click the Event Monitor Status
icon on the taskbar.
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Troubleshooting Event Monitor

Table 29 on page 65 lists some problem situations that might occur
when you are using Event Monitor and some typical solutions to them.
Table 29 Troubleshooting Event Monitor

The System Status icon on the There a serious system problem. Contact maintenance.
taskbar is red, but there are no
events in the Event Monitor window.
The Event Monitor Status icon on There are no events for the event View all event types by
the taskbar is red, but no events are type(s) that have been selected to selecting All events from
displayed in the Event Monitor be shown in Event Monitor. the View menu.
window.
Technical event "BROKEN There is a technical problem in Contact maintenance.
CONNECTION TO ALARM the CDU or communication.
SERVER" is displayed in Event
Monitor.
In the Bottom Line mode, the event The Windows Auto hide option Disable the Windows Auto
line occasionally disappears. might be selected. Hide option. In Windows
NT®, click Start - Settings
- Taskbar and clear the
Auto hide check box. For
more information, see the
operating system manuals.
When you try to turn off the Bottom The Event Monitor window might Double-click the white area
Line mode by double-clicking the have been maximized when the of the event line, or click
event line, the full view of the Event bottom line was turned on. the maximize button that
Monitor window will not be appears in the top right
displayed. corner of the Bottom Line
view.
When you minimize the Event The Hide when Minimized option In the Event Monitor
Monitor window, it does not appear might be selected. window, open the View
on the taskbar. menu. If the Hide when
minimized option is
checked, remove the check
mark by clicking the option.
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Chapter 6 ___________________________________________________________ ASCII Log View
CHAPTER 6
ASCII LOG VIEW
This chapter contains instructions for viewing history files with the
ASCII Log View application.
Introduction to ASCII Log View

ASCII Log View is an application for viewing the history files.
Depending on the configuration of the system, the history files are
stored for a period of one month or one year. After that, they are
automatically overwritten.
ASCII Log View User Interface

The ASCII Log View consists of the ASCII Log View window, the
menus, the toolbar, and the history data screens. The following sections
describe these elements briefly.
For instructions on how to open history files, see section Operating

ASCII Log View on page 74.
ASCII Log View Window

Figure 17 on page 68 presents the ASCII Log View window when no
files have been selected for viewing.
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Figure 17
0405-030
ASCII Log View Window
When history files have been selected for viewing, the parameters are
displayed in screens inside the ASCII Log View window.
The number and type of parameters that the system stores in history files
depends on the system configuration. Examples of typical screens are
presented in the following sections.
Visibility Data Screens

An example of a visibility data screen is presented in Figure 18 on page
69, RVR data in this example. For a list of typical parameters, see
Appendix A, Parameter List, on page 93, and for the list of parameters
at your airport, the airport-specific documentation. Depending on the
configuration, data screens for other parameters may also be included in
the system.
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Figure 18
0207-024
ASCII Log View: Visibility Data Screen
The visibility parameter screen columns show weather parameters for

measurement sites. The content of the files is defined during system
configuration. The typical column names are explained in Table 30 on
page 69.
Table 30 ASCII Log View: Visibility Data Screen Columns

Column Description Example
CREATEDATE The date and time of the measurement. 2001-03-28
The format is YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm:ss 12:30:30
SITE The measurement site/runway. 02L
PARAMETER The stored weather parameter and its RVR_1A
identification data. Stored parameters are
always expressed in international units (SI).
ST The status of the data at the time when the c
data was stored.
Status codes provide you with information on two things: what the
sensor mode (Manual, Backup for other than visibility sensors) and data
status (Old, Invalid, Missing) were at the storage time.
Normal status is indicated by an empty status column. All other statuses

have their specific codes as listed in the following table. If the data has
several simultaneous statuses, all these statuses are shown in the status
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column. The typical column parameters are explained in Table 31 on

page 70.
Table 31 ASCII Log View: Status Codes

Status Code Data Status at Storage Time
- (no code) Normal status.
C (Backup) Data is coming from a backup sensor due to a problem
with the original sensor (other than visibility sensor).
m (Manual) Data is entered manually by the user due to a problem
with the original sensor.
O (Old) Data is not updated properly due to sensor
communication problems.
I (Invalid) Data is not valid due to an error in sensor calibration.
M or U (Missing) Data is not available due to sensor communication
problems.
Events Screen
An example of a typical events screen is presented in the following
figure.
Figure 19
0305-059
ASCII Log View: Events Screen
The events file may differ from the one presented in the figure, because
the contents of the files are defined during system configuration. The
typical events screen column parameters are explained in Table 32 on
page 71.
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Table 32 ASCII Log View: Events Screen Columns

Column Description Example
Time The date and time of the event. The format is 2001-08-06
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm:ss 06:50:56
Counter The ordinal number of the event, for example, 8
number 8 indicates that the event is the eighth
event since the system restart.
Site The site of the event. 02L
MSG The event message as displayed in the Event 2_WIND_
Monitor window and the Alarm window. SENSOR_
MISSING_
DATA
CAT The event type. For more information on Event TECH
types, see MIDAS IV Maintenance Manual.
ST The status of the event (0=over, 1=acknowledged, 2
2=alarm, 3=warning, 4=message notification)
Menu Bar
The ASCII Log View functions can be selected from the menu bar.
Typical ASCII Log View menus and menu commands are presented in
the following tables.
Table 33 ASCII Log View: File Menu

Command Description
Open Opens a new history file
Close Closes the history file
Save as Text Saves the file as a .txt file in the same folder where the .his
file is
Automatic Automatically checks every 10 seconds if the file has
Refresh changed and updates the data on the screen with the
changed data.
Refresh Immediately checks if the file has changed and updates the
data on the screen with the changed data.
settings
Exit Exits the ASCII Log View application
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Table 34 ASCII Log View: Edit Menu

Command Description
Undo Cancels the last action
Cut Cuts the selection and copies it to the Clipboard
Copy Copies the selected text to the Clipboard
Paste Pastes the copied data
Table 35 ASCII Log View: View Menu

Command Description
Toolbar Shows/Hides the ASCII Log View toolbar
Status bar Shows/Hides the ASCII Log View status bar
Go To First Row Moves to the first row of the file
Go To Last Row Moves to the last row of the file
Table 36 ASCII Log View: Window Menu

Command Description
New Window Opens another window for the active screen
Cascade Arranges data screens one on top of the other
Tile Arranges data screens in vertical rows
Split Allows moving the column border to split the file into two
parts
Close All Closes all open windows
Table 37 ASCII Log View: Help Menu

Command Description
About Displays software version and copyright information
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Toolbar
The toolbar is the fastest way of selecting the most frequently needed
functions. A typical ASCII Log View toolbar contains the buttons listed
Table 38 ASCII Log View Toolbar Buttons

Open opens a new file.
Save as Text saves the file as a .txt file in the same folder where
the .his file is.
Copy copies the selected text to the Clipboard.
Print prints the active screen.
Automatic Refresh checks every 10 seconds if the file has
changed and updates the data on the screen with the changed
data.
Go To First Row moves to the first row of the file.
Go To Last Row moves to the last row of the file.
Refresh immediately checks if the file has changed and updates

the data on the screen with the changed data.
Status Bar
The status bar displays information on the current state of ASCII Log
View. The status bar also shows context-sensitive help texts on ASCII
Log View buttons. When you move the mouse over a button, a short
description of the button is shown on the status bar.
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Operating ASCII Log View
Starting and Exiting ASCII Log View
To start ASCII Log View, click the button on the Application

Toolbar.
To exit ASCII Log View, select Exit from the File menu.
Viewing History Files

By default, the history files are located on the CDU in the
D:\MIDASIV\HISTORY\month folder. The files can be viewed on the
workstations by sharing the drive and mapping it on the workstation. In
some systems, the CDU stores the history files on a network drive
which can be accessed by sharing the drive and mapping it on the
workstation.
Figure 20
0211-080
ASCII Log View: Opening History Files
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Typical names of different history files are listed in Table 39 on page

75.
Table 39 Sample ASCII Log View File Names

Example Path and File Name Stored Data Explanation
MIDASIV\history\(month\) Weather data Parameter data for
(PARAMETER)_02L_25.his measurement site 02L
from the 25th day of the
month
MIDASIV\history\(month\) Events Event data on the 25th
EVENTS_25.his day of the month
To view history files, do the following:
1. Start the ASCII Log View application by clicking the ASCII Log
View button on the Application Toolbar.
2. On the File menu, click Open. A file selection window is
displayed.
3. In the file selection window, open the D:\MIDASIV\HISTORY
folder, or another folder specified for history files in your system.
NOTE In some systems, history files are stored on the CDU and mapped to
the last network drive (for example, H:\). In such a case, look for the
appropriate folder when you want to open history files.
4. If needed, select the folder you wish to view, for example, a

monthly folder.
5. Find the file with the date and type you wish to view, for example,
EVENTS_20.his for the events on the 20th day of the month.
6. Click Open. The file is displayed in the ASCII Log View window.
7. To see all the columns, drag the column borders or use the scroll
bar. For an explanation of the column parameters, see the
corresponding screen presentations in section ASCII Log View
User Interface on page 67.
8. You can move in the file by clicking the Go To First Row and Go
to Last Row button in the toolbar.
9. Open all the files you wish to view. Several screens can be open at
the same time.
10. Close the file by selecting Close from the File menu.
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11. Exit ASCII Log View by selecting Exit from the File menu.
Resizing Panes and Columns

You can adjust the screens by resizing the panes and columns. This way,
you can fit more data on one screen or display only some parameters.
To resize columns or panes, do the following:
1. Place the mouse cursor over the pane border or the column border.
2. Click and drag the pane or column border with the mouse to the
location where you want the new border. Three dots after a column
heading indicates that a part of the column is hidden.
Alternatively, you can:
1. Select Split from the Window menu.

2. Drag the pane or column border with the mouse to the location
where you want the new border.
To hide columns, drag the right column border of the column to the left
until the column is hidden.
To show the column again, drag the right column border back to the
right.
Scrolling the Screens

You can also scroll the screen with the vertical scroll bar on the right
side of the screen or the horizontal scroll bar on the bottom of the
screen. The left pane automatically scrolls with the right pane when you
use the right-pane scroll bar.
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Viewing Several Windows at the

Same Time
To view several history files at the same time, do the following:
1. Open all the history files you wish to view.

2. From the Window menu, select Cascade or Tile. All the opened
history files will be displayed.
3. Resize and arrange the windows as needed.
When the file is large, it is convenient to view the same file in several
windows. This way, you can view parameters from different periods at
the same time without having to scroll back and forth in the file.
To view one file in several windows, do the following:
1. Open the file and select New Window from the Window menu.
2. The file will be opened in a new window. You can scroll to the
position you want to view without losing the original position in
the first window.
Refreshing Data
Normally the data in the screens is not refreshed. You can, however,
select to either refresh the data manually or automatically with the
changed data in the file.
To refresh the data immediately, do the following:
1. Click the Refresh button or select Refresh from the File menu.
2. The screen is immediately updated with any changed data.
To use automatic refreshing, do the following:
1. Click the Automatic Refresh button or select Automatic Refresh

from the File menu.
2. The system will check every 10 minutes if the data has changed and
will refresh the screen with the new data.
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Copying Text from History Files

You can copy text from the history files, for example, to collect data for
troubleshooting purposes.
To copy text from the history files, do the following:
1. In ASCII Log View, select the text by clicking the text row you
want to copy.
2. Select Edit - Copy.
3. Select Edit - Paste in the application where you want the text to be
copied to.
To copy several rows, select the first row you want to copy, hold down
the SHIFT key, and select the rows by pressing the DOWN ARROW
key until all rows are selected.
Troubleshooting ASCII Log View

Table 40 on page 78 lists some problem situations that might occur
when you are using ASCII Log View and some typical solutions to
them.
Table 40 Troubleshooting ASCII Log View

You cannot find the history files in The history files might be Check the location of the history
the CDU folder located on another location files from system maintenance, and
D:\MIDAS\HISTORY. on the CDU or on a network check that the drive has been
drive. shared and mapped on your
workstation.
You cannot find history files for Depending on the Check the storage time from
the previous months. configuration, the history files system maintenance or airport-
might be stored only for one specific documentation.
month.
When viewing a history file, some The columns might have Drag the column borders so that
parameters or columns are been dragged on top of each the hidden columns will appear.
missing. other by mistake.
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Chapter 7 __________________________________________________________________ Actuals
CHAPTER 7
ACTUALS
This chapter contains instructions for using manual or backup data with
the Actuals application.
Introduction to Actuals
The Actuals application is used for viewing raw RVR and visibility data
and for entering the data manually. When a sensor is out of order or
being maintained, its mode in MIDAS IV can be set to Manual and the
missing data has to be entered by the user. This can be done in the
Actuals weather data windows. Typically the maintenance personnel
inform the users when to use Actuals to change the sensor mode.
The values entered in the Actuals weather data windows appear in

Weather View application. In Weather View, the values appear as
manual data, shown on a yellow background.
Actuals can also be used for manually entering the background

luminance and light intensity information using the Runway
Parameters window.
Actuals User Interface

The Actuals user interface consists of the RVR/Visibility Actuals
window, the menus, the toolbar, and the Runway Parameters window.
These elements are briefly explained in the following sections. For
instructions on how to use the application, see section Operating
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Actuals on page 88. Some systems contain other Actuals windows for
other weather parameters.
Figure 21
0501-045
RVR/Visibility Actuals Window
The typical elements in the Actuals windows are presented in Table 41

on page 80.
Table 41 Elements in the Actuals Windows

Element Description
RWY/POS or Displays the runway/location where the data comes from.
RWY name In Manual mode, changes to “N/A” to indicate that the data
is not coming from the normal source.
Oper. Mode Operation mode of the sensor: Auto for Automatic and
Man for Manual. In other than RVR/Visibility windows,
Back for Backup also available.
Data fields RVR/Visibility values. For examples, see Appendix A,
Parameter List, on page 93.
Edit Allows you to edit the data manually (when in Manual
mode).
Apply Applies the changes made manually (when in Manual
mode).
Cancel Cancels the changes made manually (when in Manual
mode).
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Table 41 Elements in the Actuals Windows (Continued)

Element Description
Graph Graphical representation of the cloud base (in Cloud
Actuals).
The RVR/Visibility Actuals window contains average (A), minimum

(M), and maximum (X) data fields for RVR and visibility values.
MIDAS IV calculates 1- and 10-minute values for RVR and visibility.
The colors of the data fields in the weather data windows are described
Table 42 Actuals Data Field Colors
Color Explanation
Gray Data is in Automatic mode.
Yellow Data is in Manual mode.
Light blue Data is in Backup mode (not in RVR/Visibility Actuals).
White Data is in Manual mode and can be edited.
Slashes There are sensor or communication line problems.
With visibility values, only Automatic and Manual modes are possible,
since the runway visibility sensor does not have a backup sensor.
Visibility can vary greatly within short distances, so the use of a backup
sensor could result in inaccurate data. However, the background
luminance value can be copied from another sensor and thus the backup
color may be displayed in the fields.
An example of the data fields in manual mode is presented in Figure 22

on page 82.
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Figure 22
0211-081
Actuals: Sensors in Manual Mode

1 = RWY/Location, N/A indicates that data is not coming from
the normal source
2 = Operation mode indicator
3 = Data fields in Manual mode (yellow background)
5 = Data fields in Manual mode (editing mode, white
background)
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Runway Parameters Window

The MIDAS IV system uses the Background Luminance parameter to
calculate the RVR value (Runway Visual Range) shown in Weather
View. Normally, this value is measured by a Background Luminance
meter. If the sensor is out of order, or is not included in the system, the
Runway Parameters window can be used for entering the background
luminance values. The window is displayed when Runway
Parameters is selected from the Actuals menu. The window also
displays the light intensity values. For an example of the window, see
Figure 23
0408-026
Runway Parameters Window
For instructions on using the Runway Parameters window, see section

Entering Background Luminance on page 90.
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The typical elements of the Background Luminance frame of the

Runway Parameters window are described in Table 43 on page 84.
Table 43 Runway Parameters Window, Background

Luminance Frame
Element Description
Set manual background luminance frame:
Manual check boxes for Allows you to select the check box for the runways
the runways (marked whose background luminance you want to enter
with, for example, 04R, manually. The runway names are configurable.
RWY 1, or RWY A)
Select touchdown If configured, allows you to select the touchdown
zones list zones whose background luminance you want to
enter manually.
Select All If configured, selects all the check boxes in the
Select touchdown zones list.
Clear All If configured, removes the selection from all the
check boxes in the Select touchdown zones list.
Background Luminance Allows you to select a preconfigured range for
list box background luminance (NIGHT, INTERMEDIATE,
NORMAL DAY, BRIGHT DAY) for the selected
runways. See Table 44 on page 84.
Value Shows the background luminance value. Also
allows you to enter an exact value for background
luminance. The exact value overrides the selected
preconfigured range.
Apply Saves the background luminance selections and
displays the values in the Manual background
luminance values frame below.
Manual background luminance value frame:
ID column Shows the ID of the runway or touchdown zone.
Manual BL column Shows the background luminance value entered
manually for the runway or touchdown zone.
Close Closes the Runway Parameters window.
The preconfigured ranges for background luminance are typically the

following as specified by ICAO.
Table 44 Preconfigured Ranges for Background Luminance

Condition Illumination Background
Threshold (lx) Luminance (cd/m2)
Night 8 x 10 -7 50
Intermediate 10 -5 51-999
Normal day 10 -4 1000 - 12000
Bright day (sunlit fog) 10 -3 > 12000
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Table 45 Runway Parameters Window, Light Intensity

Frame
Element Description
Set manual light intensity frame:
Manual check boxes Allows you to select the check box for the runways
whose light intensity you want to enter manually.
Edgelight list box If configured, allows you to select the light
intensity percentage for the edge light on the
runway.
Centerlight list box If configured, allows you to select the light
intensity percentage for the center light on the
runway.
Rwylight list box If configured, allows you to select the light
intensity percentage for the runway light on the
runway.
Apply Saves the light intensity values and displays the
values in the Light intensity values and statuses
frame below.
Light intensity values and statuses frame:
Runway column Shows the runway name.
Status column Shows the status of the light intensity for the
runway (Normal, Missing, Manual). The Normal
status indicates that the automatic input is
available, Missing that there are problems with the
automatic input, and Manual that the values have
been entered manually.
Edge column If configured, shows the light intensity in
percentage for the edge lights.
Center column If configured, shows the light intensity in
percentage for the center lights.
Runway column If configured, shows the light intensity in
percentage for the runway.
Close Closes the Runway Parameters window.
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Menu Bar
The Actuals functions can be selected from the menu bar. Typical
Actuals menus and menu commands are presented in the following
tables. Depending on system configuration, also other options may be
available.
Table 46 Actuals: Actuals Menu

Command Description
RVR/Visibility Displays the Visibility Actuals window
Runway Parameters Displays the Runway Parameters window for
manually defining the Background Luminance and
light intensity values
Close Closes the current window
Print Prints the current window
Print setup Opens a window for changing the printer and paper
settings
Exit Exits the Actuals application
Table 47 Actuals: Edit Menu

Command Description
Undo Cancels the last action
Cut Cuts the selection and copies it to the Clipboard
Copy Copies the selected text to the Clipboard
Paste Pastes the copied data
Copy As Bitmap Copies the screen as a bitmap image to the
Clipboard
Table 48 Actuals: View Menu

Command Description
Toolbar Shows/Hides the Actuals toolbar
Status bar Shows/Hides the Actuals status bar
Table 49 Actuals: Window Menu

Command Description
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Table 49 Actuals: Window Menu (Continued)

Command Description
Close All Closes all open screens
Table 50 Actuals: Help Menu

Command Description
About Actuals Displays software version and copyright information
Toolbar
The toolbar is the quickest way of selecting the most frequently needed
functions. The typical Actuals toolbar buttons are presented in Table 51
on page 87. Depending on system configuration, also other options may
be available.
Table 51 Actuals Toolbar Buttons

RVR/Visibility Actuals opens the RVR/Visibility Actuals
window.
Runway Parameters opens the Runway Parameters window.
Print prints the active window.
Status Bar
The status bar displays information on the current state of Actuals. The
status bar also shows context-sensitive help texts on Actuals buttons.
When you move the mouse over a button, a short description of the
button is shown on the status bar.
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Operating Actuals
Starting and Exiting Actuals
To start Actuals, click the Actuals button on the Application

Toolbar.
To exit Actuals, select Exit from the Actuals menu.
Using Automatic Mode

During normal operation, data flow from the sensors is in Automatic
mode, producing a constant flow of data from the sensors to the
applications. Current data and values in the Actuals windows are
updated automatically by the system, and no user action is needed.
When a sensor is in Automatic mode, the data is displayed on a gray

background. The text in the Oper. mode field is “Auto” and the runway
name is shown in the RWY/POS field.
A typical Actuals window in automatic mode is presented, for example,

in Figure 21 on page 80.
Using Backup Mode

In the RVR/Visibility Actuals window, the Backup mode is not
possible, because runway visibility sensors do not have a backup
sensor. Since visibility can vary greatly within short distances, the use
of a backup sensor could lead to inaccurate data. However, the
background luminance value can be copied from another sensor and
thus the backup color (light blue) may be displayed in the fields.
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Using Manual Mode

During sensor problems or maintenance and when there is no backup
sensor available, you might need to set a sensor to Manual mode and
enter values manually.
NOTE Before changing sensor modes in a problem situation, you need to get
instructions from maintenance personnel. They will tell you when to
set a sensor in Backup mode and when to set it back to Automatic
mode.
To set a sensor to Manual mode and edit values using Actuals, do the
following:
1. Start Actuals.
2. From the Actuals menu, select RVR/Visibility. The RVR/
Visibility Actuals window is displayed.
3. From the Oper. Mode list box of the appropriate sensor, select
Manual or Man. The background color of the data fields in that
column changes to yellow, and the Edit button appears. The text in
the RWY/POS field changes to N/A. Because the internal mode
change updating period is approximately one second, the mode
does not change immediately.
4. Click the Edit button. If the Edit button is not visible, scroll down
the window. The background color of the data fields changes to
white.
5. Edit the values as required or enter new values in the appropriate
fields.
6. When you have finished editing the values for that sensor, click the
Apply button. If you want to cancel the changes you made, click
Cancel.
7. Keep the selected Actuals window open. Update the values
regularly, as there is no data coming from the sensor automatically.
Click Apply after every change.
8. Monitor the sensor problem with Event Monitor or wait for
instructions from the maintenance personnel. When the problem is
fixed, change the sensor mode back to Automatic.
An example of a typical window with sensor data in manual mode is

presented in Figure 22 on page 82.
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Entering Background Luminance

The MIDAS IV system uses the Background Luminance parameter to
calculate the RVR value (Runway Visual Range) shown in Weather
View. Normally, this value is measured by a Background Luminance
meter. If the sensor is out of order, or is not included in the system, the
Runway Parameters window can be used for entering the background
luminance values.
To enter Background Luminance value manually, do the following:
1. Open the Actuals application.

2. From the Actuals menu, select Runway Parameters. The
Runway Parameters window appears.
3. In the Runway Parameters window, select the Manual check box
for the appropriate runway(s) in the Background Luminance
frame.
4. In the Select touchdown zones box, select the check boxes for the
appropriate touchdown zones. If the values to be entered are the
same for several touchdown zones, you can select them all at the
same time.
5. From the Background Luminance list box, select the
preconfigured range (NIGHT, INTERMEDIATE, NORMAL
DAY, BRIGHT DAY), see Table 44 on page 84. The exact value
is shown in the Value field below. You can also enter a specific
value manually in the Value field below the list. This value
overrides the preconfigured range you may have selected.
6. Click the Apply button. The values are updated and the manual
values are displayed in the Manual background luminance
values frame below.
7. Repeat for all the runways and touchdone zones whose values you
want to enter manually.
8. Keep the Runway Parameters window open. Monitor and update
the Background Luminance value on a regular basis as long as
manual input is needed.
9. When manual input is no longer needed, remove the selection from
the Manual check box(es), click Apply, and then Close.
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Entering Light Intensity Manually

The MIDAS IV system normally receives the light intensity value
automatically from a light setting unit. If the automatic input is not
available, and depending on the configuration, the Runway
Parameters window can be used for entering the light intensity values.
To enter the light intensity value manually, do the following:

3. In the Light Intensity frame, select the Manual check box for the
runway(s) whose light intensity value you want to change.
4. Select the appropriate light intensity from the Edgelight and
Centerlight, or Rwylight list(s) for each runway.
5. Click the Apply button. The values are updated and the manual
values are displayed in the Light intensity values and statuses
frame below. The status of the runways you selected are displayed
as Manual.
6. Keep the Runway Parameters window open. Monitor and update
the light intensity value on a regular basis as long as manual input
is needed.
7. When manual input is no longer needed, remove the selection from
the Manual check box(es), click Apply and then click Close.
Viewing Light Intensity Status

To view the light intensity status on the runways, do the following:

3. In the Runway Parameters window, the status of light intensity is
displayed in the Light intensity values and statuses frame. Either
the values for Edge and Center, or for the whole runway are
displayed. If the status is Missing, there are problems with the
automatic input of light intensity. You may want to consider
entering the values manually. See section Entering Light Intensity
Manually on page 91.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 91
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
4. To exit the window, click the Close button.
Troubleshooting Actuals
The following table lists some problem situations that might occur
when you are using Actuals and some typical solutions to them.
Table 52 Troubleshooting Actuals

There are slashes (////) in the data Communication line may be Contact maintenance.
fields of the Actuals windows. broken or there may be sensor
problems.
There are no values and no There may be problems with the Contact maintenance.
slashes in the windows. All fields CDU.
are empty.
The text “N/A” is in the Actuals The sensor is in Manual mode to If the problem has been fixed,
windows instead of the normal sensor problems or maintenance. change sensor mode to
measurement site code. Automatic.
92 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Appendix A ___________________________________________________________ Parameter List
APPENDIX A
PARAMETER LIST
This chapter lists some typical parameters displayed in the windows of

Weather View and Actuals applications.
Because the parameters are defined during system configuration, your

system might include different parameters.
Table 53 Sample Parameters in Weather View and Actuals
Parameter Explanation Source

BL_1A Background luminance, 1- Background luminance meter
minute average
RVR Runway Visual Range Calculated by RVR calculation module,
see section Visibility Calculations on
page 22.
RVR_1A RVR, 1-minute average Calculated by RVR calculation module
RVR_10M RVR, 10-minute minimum Calculated by RVR calculation module
RVR_10A RVR, 10-minute average Calculated by RVR calculation module
RVR_10X RVR, 10-minute maximum Calculated by RVR calculation module
RVR_TEND RVR tendency (1=up, 0=no Calculated by RVR calculation module
change, -1=down)
RVR_RAW Raw RVR reading (not rounded) Calculated by RVR calculation module
LIGHT_S Runway light intensity setting Light setting unit
PWD_CODE Present weather code (if Present weather meter
applicable)
VER VIS Instant value of vertical visibility Cloud height meter
VIS Instant visibility Calculated by RVR calculation module
MOR Meteorological optical range Transmissometer
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 93
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Table 53 Sample Parameters in Weather View and Actuals

(Continued)
Parameter Explanation Source
VIS 1A 1-minute average visibility Calculated from VIS
VIS 10A 10-minute average visibility Calculated from VIS
VIS 10M 10-minute minimum visibility Calculated from VIS
VIS 10X 10-minute maximum visibility Calculated from VIS
For more information on calculating visibility, see Visibility

Calculations on page 22.
94 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Appendix B ________________________________________________________________ Glossary
APPENDIX B
GLOSSARY
This glossary contains descriptions and definitions for unique terms and
abbreviations used in this manual.
The highlighted words in the explanation indicate that the words have
their own glossary entry.
acknowledge To click the Acknowledge button in order to inform the system that
you have seen an event message (in the Event Monitor application).
Actuals MIDAS IV application for setting sensor modes and entering weather
data manually. Mostly needed in problem situations.
alarm message An Event Monitor message with ALARM or WARNING status. A
sign of serious system problems.
Application Toolbar A toolbar that contains the buttons for most MIDAS IV applications.
It is displayed at the top of the desktop when MIDAS IV is started.
ASCII Log View MIDAS IV application for viewing data in text files.
audiovisual alarms Optional function. Sound and color signals activated in the Weather
View application when there is a predefined change in weather.
Automatic mode See sensor mode.
Bottom Line mode An alternative way of displaying Event Monitor: a single event line at
the bottom of the screen.
calculated data Weather parameters that the central data unit produces through
calculations, in contrast to measured data. Calculated data is based
on measured data.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 95
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
CDU Central data unit, a computer that processes sensor data. A

MIDAS IV system can include one or two CDUs.
configuration See system configuration.
current data Weather data measured by sensors and shown in MIDAS IV
applications as contrasted with stored data.
data status The source and quality of weather data, indicated in Weather View
by colors. Data status in Weather View can be Invalid, Manual,
Missing, Normal, Old.
event A system event notified by MIDAS IV with a message in Event
Monitor. An event can be, for example, a problem in the system or a
predefined change in visibility conditions.
Event Monitor MIDAS IV application for viewing events. See event.
Event Monitor Status An icon shown on the status area of the taskbar of the Windows®
icon operating system. The color of the icon indicates the status of Event
Monitor messages. When there are new messages, the icon is red or
blue. When all messages are acknowledged by the user, the icon is
yellow. When there are no event messages, the icon is green.
FWS Forecaster Workstation in MIDAS IV AWOS.
Internal event A message type in the Event Monitor application.
invalid data status A data status displayed in the weather data fields in the Weather
View application. The background color of the field is red. This status
indicates that the data is not valid due to a sensor or system problem.
See also data status.
maintenance Personnel at the airport responsible for taking care of the general
personnel functioning of the MIDAS IV system. At some airports, observers
might take part in the maintenance tasks.
manual data status A data status shown in Weather View with a yellow background
color in data fields. Indicates that the data is not coming from a
sensor, but is updated manually by the user. See also data status.
Manual mode See sensor mode.
measured data Weather parameters that the sensors measure directly, in contrast to
calculated data. Measured data can be used as the basis of producing
calculated data.
measurement site See site.
Message Notification A message type in Event Monitor, when integrated with MIDAS IV
AWOS.
96 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
Appendix B ________________________________________________________________ Glossary
missing data status A data status displayed in the weather data fields in the Weather View
application with slashes in the data fields. This status indicates that
there is no data coming from a sensor due to sensor or system
problems. See also data status.
normal data status A data status displayed in the weather data fields in the Weather View
application. The background color of the field is gray. This status
indicates that the data is valid and the system is functioning normally.
See also data status.
old data status A data status displayed in the weather data fields in the Weather View
application. The background color of the field is white. This status
indicates problems in sensor communication. See also data status.
operation mode See sensor mode.
Operational event A message type in Event Monitor.
optional application Optional application or function in MIDAS IV that is not included in
the standard configuration.
OWS Observer Workstation in MIDAS IV.
processed data Weather data that is measured by sensors and processed before it is
shown in MIDAS IV applications, in contrast to raw sensor data.
raw sensor data Weather data measured by sensors and shown in MIDAS IV without
significant modifications, in contrast to processed data.
RCM workstation Workstation in MIDAS IV, contains the system maintenance
applications.
Runway Parameters A window in the Actuals application for entering the Background
Luminance range or value needed for calculating the RVR values.
sensor mode In Actuals, you can define the operation mode of sensor data. In
Automatic mode data is provided to the applications by primary
sensors. In Manual mode, data flow from sensors is interrupted and
the values entered by the user.
site The runway and location where a sensor is placed at the airport.
stored data Data that the system stores in ASCII Log View, in contrast to
current data.
system configuration The way MIDAS IV is customized during system delivery.
system delivery The installation and configuration of the MIDAS IV system by
Vaisala. During the delivery, the system is customized to meet with
the local requirements.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 97
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
System Status icon An icon on the taskbar of the Windows® operating system showing
the status of the MIDAS IV system. Green icon indicates that the
system is functioning normally. Red icon indicates system problems.
Technical event A message in the Event Monitor application indicating sensor
problems in the system.
voice alarms An optional feature in the Event Monitor application. The event
messages are read out by the speech synthesizer as they appear in the
Event Monitor window.
weather data Weather parameter values in Weather View and Actuals
applications, in contrast to system data.
weather data screen A screen in Weather View displaying weather data that is updated
several times a minute.
Weather View MIDAS IV application for viewing current weather data.
workstation A PC with a set of applications. Different workstations include
different applications and functions. See also WV, FWS, OWS, and
RCM workstation.
WV Weather View Workstation in MIDAS IV.
98 ___________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
____________________________________________________________________________ Index
INDEX
A Archived files 67
Arranging windows 28
Actuals, description ASCII Log View, description
Actuals windows 79 ASCII Log View window 67
automatic mode 88 events screen 70
background luminance 83 history file names 74
backup mode 88 introduction 67
data field colors 81 menu bar 71
introduction 79 status 69
light intensity 83 user interface 67
manual mode 89 visibility data screen 68
menu bar 86 weather parameter screen 68
parameters 93 ASCII Log View, how to
Runway Parameters window 83 copy text from history files 78
RVR/VIS Actuals window 79 deal with problem situations 78
toolbar 87 exit application 74
user interface 79 refresh data 77
Actuals, how to resize panes and columns 76
deal with problem situations 92 scroll the screens 76
enter background luminance 90 start application 74
enter light intensity 91 view history files 74
enter manual observations in the Actuals view several windows at the same time 77
windows 89 Audiovisual alarms in Weather View 38, 42
exit application 88 Auto Scale in graphs 45
start application 88
use automatic mode 88 B
use backup mode 88
use manual mode 89 Background luminance 90
use Runway Parameters window 90 Backup data in Actuals 88
view light sensor status 91 Backup data in Weather View 34
Air-traffic controllers Bottom line mode (in Event Monitor) 59
software applications 18
Weather View, user interface 31 C
Weather View, using 41
Workstation types 21 Configuration 17
Alarms Contact information 13
alarm groups in Weather View 43 Contents of the manual 9
audiovisual alarms in Weather View 38, 42
simultaneous alarms in Weather View 43 D
viewing stored alarms 44
voice alarms in Event Monitor 58 Data field colors in Weather View 34
Application toolbar 25 Data field status in Weather View 34
Applications Data fields in Weather View 34
end-user 18 Delivery 17
maintenance 20
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 99
User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
E Introduction to MIDAS IV 15
Invalid data in ASCII Log View 69
Event Monitor Status icon 27 Invalid data in Weather View 34
Event Monitor, description
Bottom Line mode 59 L
Event Monitor Status icon 50
Event Monitor window 51 License agreement 13
icon colors 52 Light intensity 91
introduction 49 Light intensity sensor status 91
menu bar 54 Logging in 23
message status 53, 57
message type 53, 57 M
stored events 63
toolbar 55 Maintenance applications 20
user interface 50 Maintenance workstation 21
voice alarm 58 Manual data in Weather View 34
Event Monitor, how to Manual mode 89
acknowledge events 56 Manual revisions 11
deal with problem situations 65 Manual structure 10
exit application 56 Message Notifications
hide the Event Monitor button 64 description 53
monitor events 56 MIDAS IV versions 16
start application 56 Missing data in ASCII Log View 69
use the Voice alarm function 58 Missing data in Weather View 34
view events in Bottom Line mode 59
view selected message types 61, 62 N
view stored Event messages 63
Exiting applications 23 Names of history files 74
Normal data in Weather View 34
F Note field 26
Feedback 12 O
FWS (Forecaster) workstation 21
Old data in ASCII Log View 69
G Old data in Weather View 34
Opening weather data screens 41
Getting help 13 Operating MIDAS IV 27
Glossary of terms 95 Operating, general
Graph scales in Weather View 37, 44 arranging windows 28
Graphical fields in Weather View 36 exiting applications 23
logging in 23
H printing 29
selecting functions 27
Helpdesk 13 showing and hiding status bars 29
History files 67 showing and hiding toolbars 28
starting applications 23
I switching between applications 28
user interface 24
ICAO recommendations 13 Operational Event messages
Internal Event messages description 53
description 53 OWS (Observer) workstation 21
International recommendations 13
100 __________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B
________________________________________________________________________________
P Troubleshooting
Actuals 92
Parameter list 93 ASCII Log View 78
Printing 29 Event Monitor 65
Problem situations. See Troubleshooting Weather View 46
R U
RCM (Maintenance) workstation 21 User interface 24

Regulatory compliances 13 Actuals 79
Related manuals 11 Application toolbar 25
Runway Parameters window 83 ASCII Log View 67
RVR calculation module 22 Event Monitor 50
Event Monitor Status icon 27
S general 24
System Status icon 26
Safety 12 Weather View 31
Selecting functions 27 User profiles 21
Sending notes between workstations 26
Sensor data in Weather View 34 V
Sensor safety 12
Sensors Version information on this manual 11
automatic mode 88 Versions 16
backup mode 88 Viewing history files in ASCII Log View 74
manual mode 89 Visibility calculations 22
Showing and hiding status bars 29 Visibility definition 22
Showing and hiding toolbars 28 Voice alarms in Event Monitor 58
Software applications on workstations 21
Starting applications 23 W
Status bars 29
Stored data in ASCII Log View 67 Weather data fields 34
Switching between applications 28 Weather data screens 32
System configuration 17 Weather View, description
System delivery 17 alarm groups 43
System maintenance applications 20 alarm window 38
System Status icon 26 average values 35
System types 16 data field colors 34
data field status 34
T graph scales 37
graphical fields 36
Technical Event messages identification data 33
description 53 instant values 35
Technical support 13 introduction 31
Toolbars menu bar 39
Actuals 87 missing values 35
Application toolbar 25 parameters 93
ASCII Log View 73 toolbar 40
Event Monitor 55 user interface 31
moving 28 weather data fields 34
showing and hiding 28 weather data screens 32
Weather View 40
VAISALA ______________________________________________________________________ 101

User’s Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Weather View, how to monitor weather data status 42

acknowledge audiovisual alarms 42 open weather data screens 41
adjust graph scales 44 start application 41
close weather data screens 41 use Auto Scale in graphs 45
deal with problem situations 46 view stored alarms 44
deal with simultaneous alarms 43 WMO recommendations 13
exit application 41 Workstation types 21
monitor weather data 42 WV (Weather View) workstation 21
102 __________________________________________________________________M210364EN-B

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Runway Visual Range System

Vaisala Oyj Phone (int.): +358 9 8949 1

Visit our Internet pages at http://www.vaisala.com/

No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means,

The contents are subject to change without prior notice.

Event Monitor Window Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Using Automatic Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Figure 1 A Typical MIDAS IV System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Table 1 Chapter Structure of the Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Table 45 Runway Parameters Window, Light Intensity Frame . . . . . . . . .85

About This Manual

Contents of This Manual

- Chapter 1, General Information: This chapter describes the

- Chapter 4, Weather View: This chapter contains instructions for

Structure of the Manual

Table 1 Chapter Structure of the Manual

The typical manual set available for the MIDAS IV products is

Table 3 Related Manuals

General Safety Considerations

NOTE Note highlights important information on using the product.

Table 4 International Recommendations Applied to

This chapter gives an overview of the MIDAS IV system and its

The system measures, processes, displays, stores, and distributes

The MIDAS IV RVR system collects MOR data from

View application. Event Monitor and Actuals applications are for

A typical MIDAS IV system is presented in Figure 1 on page 16.

The following numbers refer to Figure 1 on page 16:

All versions can be one of the following types:

- A single-CDU system with workstations

CAUTION System configuration is only allowed by authorized Vaisala personnel.

This manual provides a description of the end-user applications and

End-user Software Applications

The following sections include brief descriptions of what each end-user

The MIDAS IV RVR software focuses on the following aspects of

- Displaying visibility data (Weather View)

Viewing Current Data

Entering Data Manually

Viewing Past Data

ASCII Log View

Monitoring System Operation

System Maintenance Software Applications

For detailed information, see the appropriate MIDAS IV Maintenance

- Air traffic controllers (Weather View Workstation, WV)

In addition, the MIDAS IV AWOS system usually contains a Forecaster

The number of different workstations in the system depends on the

Each workstation includes a different set of applications depending on

For an example of typical MIDAS IV RVR applications in each

Table 5 MIDAS IV Applications in Workstations

This manual covers the applications in WV, OWS, and FWS

Visibility for aeronautical purposes is defined as the greater value of the

a. The greatest distance at which a black object of suitable

The two distances have different values in air of a given extinction

NOTE The prevailing visibility calculation provided in MIDAS IV AWOS is

Starting and Exiting Applications

To start the other applications, click the corresponding buttons on the

MIDAS IV User Interface

The following numbers refer to Figure 2 on page 24:

MIDAS IV Application Toolbar

The typical buttons on the MIDAS IV Application Toolbar are

Table 6 MIDAS IV RVR Application Toolbar Buttons

Event Monitor opens the Event Monitor application.

ASCII Log View opens the ASCII Log View application.

Actuals opens the Actuals application.

Sends the text in the note field to other MIDAS IV workstations.

MIDAS IV RVR User's Guide

MIDAS IV RVR User's Guide