19
3.7
MPC35 Controller Module
The MPC35 controller module provides the overall intelligence of the MXHF. It is the job of the controller to tell
the power modules how to correctly charge a battery. The controller must be configured to match a certain
battery before the charger can be used.
To understand the software element of the MXHF it should be explained that there are two separate software
components to the charger. First there is a Firmware (FW) which is embedded code that is loaded into flash
memory in the micro-controller chip in the MPC35 controller module. FW controls all the functions of the
charger. Second is the PC software that runs on host Windows computer and communicates to the MPC35 via a
USB connection. The PC software is called “Charger Interface” and provides necessary interface to read the
configuration, status, alarm logs and charge logs of the MXHF. If Automatic Profile Configuration (APC) module
is used, the APC configuration can also be read by the software.
There is no need for loading the FW as this is done at the factory during final test of the controller. However
should there be the need to adjust the function or add new features to the MXHF, the Charger Interface
software can be used to “Bootload” new FW into the controller.
3.8
Charger Interface Software
Note: Charger Interface software is not required to be used in order for the MXHF to fully operate. The “Read-
Only” version of the software may be provided to the customer for analysis purposes upon request. It is
intended to be used by technicians for troubleshooting, monitoring and retrieving alarm and charge logs.
3.8.1 System Requirements
Charger Interface software has the following minimum system requirements:
•
Microsoft XP (SP3) / Windows Vista / Windows 7 / Windows 8
•
Microsoft .NET Framework
•
USB 1.0/1.1/2.0
•
Administrator privileges on the PC for installation
3.8.2 Installation
Ensure the minimum system requirements are met before installing the Charger Interface software. The
software installer may be supplied on a CD, USB flash drive or other method. Locate and run the software
installer file. Follow the installer prompts to complete the installation. After installation a desktop shortcut will be
created. Power on the MXHF and connect the charger to the PC with a USB cable.
3.8.3 Operator Access Level Control
An incorrectly configured charger can cause irreversible damage to the batteries. For this reason Charger
Interface software employs a three-level access control. The three levels are:
•
Read Only Access (Customer)
Read charger status, charger configuration, start and delay times, and alarm and charger logs. Viewing the
configuration of an attached APC module is also available.
•
Configuration Access (Authorized Representatives)
Charger configuration settings can be modified using pre-defined template settings. The settings include:
Battery voltage, battery type, amp-hours and battery module (APC) enabling option.
•
Advanced Access (Factory only)
Allows advanced control over the charger and battery module functions.
3.8.4 Charger Interface Tabs
Charger Interface software displays various charger data in a series of tabs within the main window. Some tabs
such as the Monitoring Tab are undocked by default. These tabs may be docked to the main window by double-
clicking the tab title bar.
