Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Base Stations
Page | 37
Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0023
October 2018
4.15.
Set up requirements
4.15.1.
Host System:
Note: The default delivery output communication (COMMS) setting of MetPak Range Base Station
units is RS232.
Use an RS232 to USB converter e.g. Gill part 1957-10-065, 1.8M configuration cable fitted with 8
way Base Station Hub Box connector and with integral 5v USB connector power for the Base
Station (see Para 4.8).
Note
that if a WindObserver or WindMaster is connected to a Base Station
that 5v will not be sufficient to power them, the cable is provided only for hub box configuration.
If an install driver is required for this cable it can be obtained from the supplied CD or downloaded
from:-
http://www.ftdichip.com/FTDrivers.htm
Or
Use an RS232 to USB adaptor or equivalent for example EasySynch part ES-U-1001-A (if not
using Gill part 1957-10-065) or connect directly to an RS232 COM port.
Use a PC running Windows software up to and including Windows 10 and with an internal or
external interface compatible with the output from the MetPak.
Use a Power Supply, 12V to 30Vdc at 200mA if not using the Gill Instruments Configuration cable.
Use 3 pair cable e.g. Belden 9503 (if not using Gill Part 1723-10-051), length as required if not
using the Gill Instruments Configuration cable.
4.15.2.
Software:
Gill MetSet Software used as a configuration Tool (supplied on the Base Station CD), will run on
PC’s with up to and including Windows 10 and can be downloaded free from:-
http://www.gillinstruments.com/main/software.html.
4.15.3.
Bench system test
The CD supplied in the Base Station box contains a copy of the manual and relevant software to
check and set up the unit.
Prior to physically mounting the Base Station in its final location, we strongly recommend that a
bench system test be carried out to confirm the system is configured correctly, is fully functional
and electrically compatible with the selected host system and cabling (preferably utilising the final
cable length). The required data format, units, output rate, and other options should also all be
configured at this stage.
Connect the Base Station to a PC wired as per RS232 connections in Para 4.9.
Alternatively use a Gill configuration cable (1957-10-065) with an 8 way connector fitted on one
end and USB converter at the other if required to simplify set up between Base Station and a PC.
Open Gill MetSet software provided to read, check settings or change settings as per para 6.2.
Use MetSet View Output button to check the data string and confirm that the Status field reads 00.
4.16.
Packaging
Whilst the Base Station is being moved to its installation site, the unit should be kept in its
packaging. Retain the packaging for use if the unit has to be moved or returned to Gill Instruments.
