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58E0035/D

Resonance frequency tester

Handbook
58E0035/D

Summary

SUMMARY 1

1 GENERAL INFORMATION 2
1.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 2
1.2 HANDBOOK REVISIONS HISTORY ................................................................................................................ 2
1.3 ICONS AND ALERT USED ............................................................................................................................ 2
1.4 DOS AND DON’TS.................................................................................................................................... 2
1.5 SAFETY INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................. 3
1.6 ENVIRONMENTAL RISK AND DISPOSAL ......................................................................................................... 4
1.7 CE DECLARATION .................................................................................................................................... 5
1.8 IDENTIFICATION PLATE ............................................................................................................................. 6

2 INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION 7
2.1 FRONT PANEL......................................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 INSTRUMENT’S ACCESSORY ....................................................................................................................... 9
2.3 POWER SUPPLY AND BATTERY PACK ...........................................................................................................11

3 INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION 13
3.1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS......................................................................................................................13

4 BASIC THEORY 14
4.1 INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................................................................14
4.2 OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE ......................................................................................................................15

5 USER INTERFACE 18
5.1 SURVEY................................................................................................................................................18
5.2 ARCHIVE ..............................................................................................................................................20
5.3 SETTINGS .............................................................................................................................................22

6 RESREADER SOFTWARE, DATA ANALYSIS 23

7 MAINTENANCE 23
7.1 SOFTWARE UPDATE ................................................................................................................................26

8 DIAGNOSTICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING 28

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1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction
The purpose of this manual is to provide instructions for using the instrument. Nonetheless, it is advisable to
consult specific articles in the non-destructive investigations sector to improve the data analysis phases and
carry out the analyzes in full awareness. The instrument can determine the longitudinal, transverse, and
torsional resonance frequency of concrete, concrete or natural stone samples. The investigation
methodology is based on the determination of the fundamental resonance values generated by a stress
induced on the test sample by the impact of steel spheres of different diameters detected by an
accelerometric sensor.

The recording and saving of the acquisitions take place on internal memory, with the possibility of exporting
via USB. Through proprietary RESReader software, it is possible to view and generate project reports.

The instrument is based on a 24-bit resolution ADC converter, ensuring data stability and accuracy. The
operator is guided through a simple and intuitive interface through a comfortable 7 "touch-screen display.

The continuous improvement of the product by the company could create discrepancies with what is
specified in this document.

1.2 Handbook revisions history

Date Description
01/04/2020 First release
10/01/2022 Update and corrections

1.3 Icons and alert used

Please carefully read the instruction marked with this icon.

This icon indicates a WARNING message related to security aspects for operator and
technical staff.

1.4 Dos and don’ts


The operator is responsible for instrument power ON, for operations performance for which the equipment
has been designed and built, for it switching off even in emergency conditions.

The instrument must be used according to procedures contained in this manual.

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Any other use will be considered improper, not allowed, and dangerous. Control Groups
cannot be held responsible for the incorrect use of the instrument.

Carefully design the survey and settings used. Once the acquisition is registered, it is not
possible to change those settings in post processing.

Although the instrument’s software has been designed with the utmost attention and care, it is not possible
to ensure accuracy and completeness of the same as well as their compliance with current regulations. Lack
of specific expertise by the user can lead to incorrect calculations and results. Therefore, it is required
accountability on such results from user who remains the only legal responsible for the results and signed
final reports.

1.5 Safety information

It is recommended to read this section carefully. Control Groups designs and manufactures its equipment in
compliance with relevant safety regulations; moreover, it can provide all necessary information for proper
use of the same.

Control Groups cannot be held responsible for:

• Use of the equipment for purposes other than those provided by the instrument.
• Equipment and / or operator damage caused by installation and maintenance performed with
violation of procedures or wrong use of equipment itself.
• Mechanical and / or electrical modifications carried out during and after the installation phase, which
violate information provided in this manual.

Technical interventions must be performed by qualified technical staff authorized by Control Groups only.
Authorized technicians can remove protection panels and access to internal components. Maintenance
activities must be performed by trained staff, informed of all risks to which it is exposed. If during normal
use, the user identifies any working anomalies, it must immediately refer to the support department.
Technical assistance and maintenance activities can be performed only by specially trained and authorized
staff, who is aware of existing residual risks. The equipment owner must be sure that users and staff have
been properly trained with regards to security aspects and equipment residuals risks.

• it is recommended to perform all checks listed in Maintenance chapter before


beginning each work session.
• In case of anomalies, immediately inform authorized technical staff. Controls Group
will not be held liable for damage to persons or property caused by failure indication
observance. This will also cause loss of warranty.
• Failure in performing maintenance operations or their execution by unauthorized
staff will cause loss of warranty.
• Controls Group cannot be held responsible for preventive or corrective maintenance
operations carried out by unauthorized staff.

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• Avoid water or other liquids leaking inside the instrument because this can cause
short circuits.

Controls Group cannot be held responsible for things and/or persons damage caused by non-observance of
present obligations.

1.6 Environmental risk and disposal


At the end of its life instrument must be collected separately from other waste. The user must bring expired
equipment to appropriate differentiated collection centers for electronic and electrical waste, set up by local
governments, or return it to the manufacturer / dealer against buying of a new one. Separate collection of
waste and subsequent treatment, recovery, and disposal, allow production of equipment with recycled
materials and limits negative environmental effects caused by improper handling.

Illegal dumping of the product by user causes application of administrative sanctions provided by law.

USERS INFORMATION: According to sec. 13 of Regulations 25 July 2005,


n. 151"Execution of Regulations 2002/95/CE, 2002/96/CE and
2003/108/CE, related to reduce dangerous substances use in electric
and electronic instruments, as well as waste disposal".

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1.7 CE declaration

All equipment components and accessories comply with CE regulations and Directive 2002/95 / EC:
restriction of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (27 January 2003). The
measures provided in this Directive consider existing international guidelines and recommendations and are
based on available scientific and technical data assessment.

CE mark is set within the stated nameplate. Below is a copy of the CE conformity declaration. Original is
provided with equipment as a separate document.

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1.8 Identification plate

Identification plate (Serial Number) is placed on instrument side. Identification code is made by a string with
capital letter followed by 6 numbers. After the code, CE mark is positioned (Figure 1).

Figure 1 - Identification plate

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2 INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
The following chapter describes the instrumentation, the front panel on which the connections to the
accessory units are present and the relative technical details.

The product is designed to measure the resonance frequency on test samples whether they are cylindrical or
parallelepipeds of concrete, cement or more generally of natural stone. The analysis of the longitudinal,
transverse, and torsional resonance frequency allows to determine the dynamic modulus of elasticity and
the attenuation coefficient of the sample under study. This parameter is an important one for analyzing the
degradation caused on materials.

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2.1 Front panel


The instrument front panel is shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 - Front panel

1 ON/OFF button
2 Charger socket
3 USB socket
4 BNC input for accelerometer sensor
5 7” touch-screen capacitive Display TFT-LCD, 1280x800.
6 Battery status’ LED
7 Power supply status’ LED

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2.2 Instrument’s accessory

RFTSFE6 Set of 6 steel balls for energizing the


specimens:

Ball diameter: 15,12,10, 8,5,3 mm

Number of balls: 6

Stem material: harmonic steel

Support stem length: 180 mm

RFTSPS Standard support base for specimens

- sandwich structure PE foam, ABS, PU foam

- Dimensions 400 x 160 x H 35mm

RFTSP Accessory that allows the positioning and


locking of the samples to be investigated in the
positions indicated by the legislation.

The removable side supports allow adjustment


along the sliding guides, once the correct
position has been established it is possible to
lock them using the side knobs. The threaded
bars of the central vice are removable to
facilitate transport and to increase the height
of the vice itself.

- PVC, dimensions 600x240xH18mm

- Sliding guides: aluminum

- Distance between the guides: 120mm

- Removable media width: 140mm

- Useful width of central support: 165mm

- Central vice useful height: 100mm

-Diameter of central vice bars: 6mm

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CFRBCSMA1M Connection cable between SR30 and C311R for


measurement of the resonant frequency. SMA
connector on sensor side and 4-pole ODU on
instrument side; length 1 meter, PE insulation,
polyvinyl chloride sheath, black PVC,
characterized by a high resistance to wear in
general.

SFTSC25 Set of 25 support cornerstones for


accelerometer for resonance frequency
specimens to be fixed on the specimen to be
tested by gluing.

Length: 11 mm

Diameter: 5 mm

Material: steel

SR-30 Accelerometer
Sensitivity (± 20%) 100 mV / g
Measuring range ± 50 g
Frequency range (± 3dB): 0.5-10kHz,
Resonant frequency> 25 kHz,
350 g rms broadband resolution,
Nonlinearity ≤ %, Cross sensitivity ≤ %
Overload limit (Shock) 5000 g,
Temperature ranges from -54 to -84 ° C
Settling time 2 sec
Discharge time constant 0.3 sec,
Excitation voltage from 18 to 28 Vdc,
Constant current excitation 2-20 mA,
Output impedance <150 Ohm,

Output polarization voltage (± 10%) from 8 to


12 VDC

AL15333 Adattatore CA da tavolo con alimentatore


commutazione CA / CC 15 V, fornito 50W di
potenza di uscita continua in un contenitore
compatto di alta qualità. Frequenza di ingresso
di 50-60Hz e uscita regolata e protetta da
cortocircuito. connettore C8.

Protezione termica di tipo a blocco, lunghezza


complessiva del cavo dell'alimentatore da
tavolo è 126,4 mm, basso consumo
energetico, inferiore a 0,10 W.

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VMM423412 Valigetta per accessori

Contiene:

- Supporto standard provino


- Accelerometro
- Cavo di collegamento SR30
- Set 25 caposaldi
- Set sfere di energizzazione
- Memoria salvataggio dati
- Alimentatore

The accessories that can be provided when ordering is variable based on the use of the tool
and therefore are linked primarily to the purpose for which it is intended to be used. needs
other than standard ones can be taken into consideration for ad hoc production.

2.3 Power supply and battery pack

The instrument has an internal Li-ion battery pack. A power supply is supplied with a special connection that
allows the instrument to be recharged through a normal household electrical socket (220V).

The power supply socket is located on the front panel (Figure 2) and when a low charge level is indicated on
the display or in any case after prolonged use of the instrument, the operator must then recharge.

The charging indicator LED (Figure 2) is always red when the instrument is connected to the
power supply; it turns off when disconnected.

A systematic check of the state of charge of the instrument is recommended, especially if long
periods of use are foreseen. The status LED flashes blue during the power up procedure; if there
are two blue flashes, a low charge level is signaled, while if the LED stays on, the instrument is
ready for measurement. To turn off the instrument it is necessary to hold down the specific
button (Figure 2).

To avoid damage to the equipment, it is recommended to use only the power supply that
is supplied or otherwise use a power supply with 15V output.

It should be remembered that batteries, in general, have a small self-discharge current;


therefore, it is advisable to recharge them periodically (for example once a month) even if
the instrument remains unused and therefore no monitoring is carried out. The batteries
must be recharged when the temperature is between 10 ° C and 40 ° C. The recharging cycle
of the internal batteries is optimized when the instrument is off. Charging the internal
batteries normally takes about 8 hours.

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After several recharging cycles or when problems are encountered connected to recharging
the internal batteries, it is possible to replace the internal battery pack.

Figure 3 shows the steps for replacing the internal battery pack which specifically consist of unscrewing the
four knobs on the front panel and removing the instrument from the yellow case. Proceed to unscrew the
side screws indicated and do not remove them completely to allow you to lower the battery compartment
and unscrew the central pin of the compartment. Proceed to disconnect the connector on the right with a
slight pull and extract the battery.

nscrew
nscrew, but do not remove
nscrew
emove ba ery

Figure 3 - Battery change procedure

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3 INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION

3.1 Technical specifications

GENERALS
CPU CORE4418
Weight 3 kg
Dimensions (cm) 27,1 x 24,8 x 12,3
Power supply Li-ion 11,1V/14Ah
Autonomy > 8 hourse
Environmental condition -20°C / 80°C
Interface USB
Display 7” capacitive touch-screen TFT-LCD
GPS No
Case IP67
HS Code 90158011
ACQUISITION
Accelerometer sensibility (± 20%) 100 mV / g
Sampling frequency 100KHz (Nyquist: 50KHz)
Resolution range min. 12.2 Hz (0-50 kHz) - max. 0.49 Hz (0-2 kHz)
ADC converter 12 bit
Samples per event 8192 (2 KHz -8,33 KHz),
16384 (10KHz – 16,67KHz),
32768 (25KHz),
65536 (50KHz)
Trigger Through energizing spheres supplied
Trigger level 19mV

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58E0035/D

4 BASIC THEORY

4.1 Introduction

The 58E0035/D is an instrument for determining the fundamental resonance frequency of vibration of a
sample subjected to impact; the method is applied to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of the samples
being analyzed and the calculation procedures must take into account the form factors and therefore the
effects introduced into the calculation by the corrective factors. The determination of the resonance allows
in a fast and non-invasive way to determine the degradation, and therefore the durability of the concrete or
of the material constituting the sample. The advantage of the resonance method lies in the repeatability and
reproducibility of the data with respect to destructive tests that are carried out briefly on the samples to be
analyzed.

The main normative references that regulate the method and that have been taken into consideration for
the development of the software aspects that regulate the measurement process are reported.

• ASTM C666
• BS 1881:209
• NF P18-414
• ASTM C215-08
• UNI EN 14146:2005
• UNI 9771 (1990)

More specifically, the UNI 9771 standard describes the procedure for determining the dynamic Edin module
by means of the resonance test. In general, the test consists in subjecting a cylindrical specimen (of concrete
for example) to an axial dynamic test placed in a specific support, stressing it by means of a mechanical
impulse which causes it to vibrate. Edin value is calculated from the following relation:

𝐸𝑑𝑖𝑛 = 4ℎ 2 𝑓 2 𝜌𝐶1

with:
• h is the height m.
• f is the resonance frequency hertz.
• ρ is the cement density in Kg/m³.
• C1 = + (π²ν²J/(Ah²) is the correction parameter

Dove:
• A = transverse area
• J = inertial moment
• ν = Poisson’s module

Since the tests take place with a very rapid voltage variation, therefore with a high oscillation frequency, the
voltage level cannot develop in the whole specimen, so the deformation is less and the Edin modulus
apparently becomes larger. The dynamic Edin module cannot therefore be used as it is for the calculations of
deformations in reinforced concrete constructions.

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Edin is approximately equal to the tangent modulus at the origin and is therefore always higher than the secant
modulus; it is useful when non-destructive tests are used to verify the characteristics of the concrete in place
such as ultrasonic tests in situ.

4.2 Operational procedure


This paragraph shows a typical procedure to perform the resonance measurement, but sector operators are
recommended to consult the regulations and scientific articles of the sector to optimize the measurement
phase and therefore achieve better results.

Once the sample / specimen is sized and then its actual dimensions are ascertained by expressing them in
millimeters (the use of a gauge is recommended for these aspects), care must be taken in positioning it on
the supplied support. In detail, as defined by the standard (14146) in paragraph 6, the specimens must be
exclusively of prismatic or cylindrical shape with a length of prisms with a cylindrical, square, or rectangular
base at least twice the largest dimension of the base.

Tolerances of dimensions l, b, d, h must be ± 1mm in compliance with EN 13373.

It is recommended to evaluate any anisotropic planes when the specimens are represented by stones
(stratification, foliation) and to prepare the same with the long axis parallel or perpendicular to these planes.
Conditions such as humidity and temperature should be noted. In general, cylindrical specimens are
anchored with the RFTSP code support equipped with special clamps for locking, while parallelepiped-shaped
specimens can be placed on a special RFTSPS base.

The cornerstones (code SFTSC25) must be anchored in the points dictated by the legislation, and which are
duly recalled also through the illustrative images present on the management software (see Chapter User
interface) to fix the accelerometer to the specimen such as rubber or mastic (compare with the regulatory
references (par. 5.1.2 UNI EN 14146 standard).

Proceed by housing the accelerometer receiver code SR-30 on the benchmark, screwing it delicately with the
appropriately prepared thread (Figure 4).

Figure 4 - Placement of the SR + 30 sensor at the benchmark

Below are illustrative images to schematically summarize the measurement phases (Figure 5, Figure 6) and
the positions that regulate the different resonant frequency measurements.
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Figure 5 - Test procedures

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Figure 6 - Measurement sensor positions

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5 USER INTERFACE
This chapter describes the different functions of the instrument. Started the tool with the appropriate key,
after a few seconds necessary for the system initialization phase, the main page appears on the display
(Figure 7).

There are three sections accessible by touch.

Archive urvey Con gura on

Figure 7 - Main display

To start the instrument, simply press the power button and wait for the status LED to remain
steady (blue light); to turn off the instrument, simply press the power button and keep it
pressed for a few seconds (about 3 sec).

5.1 Survey
Once the connection between the accelerometer and the instrument is taken care of, the operator can start
recording the resonance measurement by going to the Investigation section.

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The first operation is to define the characteristics of the sample and then enter the type of specimen and the
relative quantities in the appropriate fields; when the type is selected, the fields are prepared for entering
the dimensions and weight. Once the required fields have been filled in, you can go ahead with the arrow at
the bottom right to proceed with the acquisition (Figure 8).

Figure 8 - Sample characteristics

In this regard, it should be remembered that insertion and, more generally, editing is allowed
through the integrated touch screen; when the dedicated space is clicked, an alphanumeric
keyboard is automatically opened for entering characters.

By pressing the play button (Figure 8), the window that precedes the measurement appears, where the
positions of the stop point, and the accelerometer are shown on the left section.

Figure 9 - Test configuration screen

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Once the test has been carried out, the operator can decide, regardless of the outcome, to repeat it using
the key shown in the figure; with the play key you enter the measurement and recording section.

5.2 Archive

Figure 10 - Archive main page

The archived data can be consulted and reopened by accessing the archive folder which displays the file name
and the specific methodology. By pressing and holding a single acquisition it is possible to delete it.

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e port
sportaport elete
elete all
Cancella
alltu o

Figure 11 - Archive screen

Using the Export to USB drive button it is possible to export all the acquisitions present on the internal
memory to the connected USB drive. The export process can take few seconds, depending on the amount of
data to export.

Figure 12 - USB Export, after this screen you can safely remove the USB drive

Premature removal of the USB drive can lead to file loss. Always wait for the export
confirmation message

Exporting to USB is possible only if the USB drive is correctly inserted and the USB connection
indicator is highlighted.

not connected connected

Using the delete all button, it is possible to delete all the acquisitions present in the archive.

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Figure 13 - Internal memory formatting confirmation message

Formatting the internal memory deletes all the data stored in the archive; once done, it will not
be possible to recover the deleted files.

5.3 Settings
Using the directional arrows (Errore. L'origine riferimento non è stata trovata.) on the Settings section, the
operator can best configure the instrument by acting on the individual items present (Figure 14) which in
detail allow you to set the date and time, the language, access in the window dedicated to management
software updates, view the current version in use.

Figure 14 - General settings

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6 RESreader software, data analysis


RESreader is a visualization and reporting software for the measurements made with the 58E0035/D
instrument.

To facilitate the collection of multiple tests, the RESreader software manages projects with .rtl format.

1) Open the ResReader.exe program; in the main screen, create a new project by clicking the New icon
in the top left of the screen. Click Open to open a project in .rtl format.

Figure 15 - RESreader main screen

2) After creating a new project, a screen opens with project information. The information entered will
then appear in the final report. Press Save to confirm the information and proceed.

Figure 16 - Project screen

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3) Click on Samples to import .res files. This screen contains all the tests acquired and it is possible to
enter information for each sample. This information will also be used in the final report. Click on
Import to import new acquisitions in .res format.

Figure 17 - Samples import and information

4) Go to Test administrations to view the acquisition. From here it is possible to select the sample and
the measurement made using the drop-down menus at the top left. The two graphs show the
acquisition in the time domain (top) and in the frequency domain (bottom). By moving the red cursor,
it is possible to select the resonant frequency. Press Save to confirm.

Figure 18 - Test visualization and frequency picking

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5) To enable the Report, go to Project Information again to check that the entered meta information is
correct. Then go back to Test administration and select the Report button. A text formatting
application will open where you can view and edit the report.

Figure 19 - Report visualization

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7 MAINTENANCE
1. Periodic maintenance of the instrument is recommended in order to reduce the probability of failure.
2. The accumulation of moisture or water or exposure to saline or corrosive environments can affect the
functionality of the system.
3. It is advisable to always keep the instrument inside the supplied case, especially when it is not in use.
4. Like any other complex device, the equipment requires to be used correctly and at the same time requires
maintenance and inspections to be performed at predetermined intervals; these simple rules will allow
the intrinsic characteristics of efficiency and safety to remain unchanged over time.
5. Periodic maintenance consists of inspections carried out directly by the operator.
6. Failure to carry out these operations or the execution by unauthorized personnel will result in the
cancellation of the warranty.
7. The execution of periodic maintenance operations is under the responsibility of the owner of the
equipment and must be performed at pre-established intervals depending primarily on use.
8. Control Groups is not responsible for preventive or corrective maintenance actions performed by
unauthorized personnel.

Remember that the internal batteries have a small self-discharge current; therefore, it is
advisable to recharge them periodically (for example once a month) even if the instrument
remains unused.

To avoid dangers caused by unexpected malfunctions, periodically carry out the following maintenance
activities:
• carefully clean the signal connector (if you do not do this, you may have problems with the acquisition
or false reading of the measurement);
• check that the connection cable between the accelerometer and the instrument is not damaged.
Do not use in environments where magnetic sensors are continuously exposed to water. Although the
sensors meet the IEC standards, IP65 degree of protection (JIS C 0920: waterproof structure), do not use the
product in applications that would constantly subject it to splashes and jets of water.

Avoid accumulation of iron dust and close contact with magnetic substances.

7.1 Software update

To constantly improve the instrument and adapt the measures to the new regulations, it is advisable to check
the software version through the information item. To perform software upgrades, Control Groups releases
and sends the specific file (.bin) to the end customer and the operator must copy it to a USB drive. By inserting
the USB drive into the instrument and going to the Update software item in the settings section, proceed by
clicking on the play button and the new version is automatically installed.

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Figure 20 - software update

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8 DIAGNOSTICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING


The overall status of the instrument can be monitored by the indications at the bottom right of the display
which show the presence of the USB drive, the memory status, and the charge level.

Icon Description

USB is not connected

USB is connected and working properly

Internal memory is working properly

Less than 50MB of memory

Charging battery

Empty battery

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