Q. InSight gives me an error message when I try to connect to my Sigma
Sampler or Flow Meter via the RS232 serial port.
A. If you are using the DOS version of InSight try shutting Windows down and
restarting the computer in DOS mode. Run InSight from the DOS prompt and try
again. Also check the following:
Q. My Sampler blew a 5 AMP fuse, what could have caused it?
A. The 5-Amp fuse protects the pump motor from damage in the event that a hard
object in the pump housing or tubing jams the rollers. First, disconnect all
power from the sampler. Next, remove the pump cover and tubing. Clean the
rollers of all debris. Check the tubing and replace if worn or leaking. The
pump tubing must be positioned properly in the pump. The dots on the tubing
should line up with the edge of the tubing entrance and exit points on of the
pump body (see the O&M manual for details on proper tubing installation).
Do not stretch the tubing during installation. Reinstall the pump cover. Always
replace the fuse with the exact same rating as the original.
Q. What is the difference between "Calibration" and "Level
Adjust"?
A. Calibration is the user programmable span setting done before installation.
Level adjust is intended to be used as a sensor offset during installation.
Q. Why do I need to continuously make level adjustments?
A. The constant need for level adjustments is an indication of a greater
problem. Typically a need for maintenance. There is no "maximum"
level adjusting number but common sense should apply. If I install a calibrated
probe into my channel one week and need to do a major level adjust 2 weeks
later, something is wrong.
Q. What kind of maintenance is required on my submerged depth probe?
A. Make sure the desiccant in the sensor cable is fresh (blue color, not pink).
Check for a plugged air vent in the sensor desiccant cartridge. Check screen on
bottom of probe for debris buildup (use care when cleaning this area so as not
to damage the pressure sensor diaphragm. Follow up with a recalibration.
Q. When I try to program my sampler or flow meter I am asked to supply an
Access Code. I don't know what the Access Code is?
A. The access code is a security code that keeps unauthorized people from
tampering with the program or the data inside the sampler or flow meter. It may
be enabled or disabled during the "Program Lock" programming step.
The access code number must be entered before any program changes are allowed.
The access code for your product is shown in the Operating & Maintenance
manual.
Q. What is the main difference between a Lead Acid Gel battery and a
Nickel Cadmium battery?
A. Nickel Cadmium batteries generally perform better in cold weather.
Q. How far can I run my RS-232 cable?
A. 50' is the rated maximum, although reliable connections up to several
hundred feet have been reported.
Q. Is there any way I can extend the RS-232 distance?
A. Yes, through the use of short haul modems, up to 4 miles.
Modbus
FAQ
Q. What is Modbus?
A. An industry standard communications protocol developed by Modicon Inc. that
works with most SCADA systems.
Q. What software does Modbus work with?
A. Any software application that supports Modbus ASCII will work without
the use of additional drivers. Through the use of additional software drivers,
Modbus can be used with any Windows based application that supports DDE or OPC.
Q. Will your flow meters work with my SCADA system.
A. Yes, if your SCADA systems supports Modbus ASCII. Sigma models 940, 950
& 980 all come with Modbus ASCII built in at no extra cost!
Rental
FAQ
Q. Do you rent equipment?
A. Yes
Q. What are the rental periods?
A. Daily, Weekly and Monthly
Q. Can the rental cost be applied towards purchase of equipment?
A. Yes. You may apply 75% of the rental price toward the purchase of the rental
equipment.
Q. Do you offer insurance for rentals?
A. No
Q. When does the rental period begin?
A. When you receive the equipment.
Misc.
FAQ
Q. What are the usual lead times for units and parts?
A. Exact lead times can vary due to a variety of circumstances. As a rule of
thumb, parts in stock will ship within 48 hours, parts to be ordered and main
products (samplers, flow meters, etc,) ship within two to three weeks.
December 1, 2004