ChromaSoft SpecView communicates with
multiple Chromalox 2104, 1604, 3101, 2030,
3380 and 2120 legacy controllers from a
single computer via RS485 or RS232 comm
port. Additional Chromalox Controllers will be
communicating with ChromaSoft SpecView.
See chromalox.com for updated information.
This flexible Windows based package allows
an operator to view and change any controller
parameter from the computer. Using this package
the operator can also monitor and record
any controller parameter, logging data for
future evaluation.
Set up is quick and simple. The operator can
design and build a GDS (Graphical Display
Screen) in less than an hour. Each Controller
has an already designed “Instrument View”,
which can be added to the GDS with a couple
of key strokes. The Instrument View looks like
the controller and displays the process variable,
set point and has functional pushbuttons.
If the process has multiple controllers or the
operator wants to view several instruments on
one screen, the instruments can be added to
a single GDS. Multiple screens can separate
different functions. It’s the operator’s choice.
Another feature of the GDS set up is the
“Trend Chart” utility. An operator can quickly
build a trend chart with multiple variables
and scales on a single chart or build multiple
charts on a single screen. The trend chart can
later be quickly reviewed using the “Historical
Replay” option or the data can be exported to
a 3rd party data base program.
Other features of the Graphical Display
Screens are bar graphs, recipe storage and
downloading, user defined pushbuttons, and
alarm logging. ChromaSoft Windows is a
simple solution for set up and data logging of
Chromalox Controllers with digital communications.
Multi-port Option is ideal if ChromaSoft
SpecView is communicating with multiple
controllers. With this option the program can
use up to 9 communications ports. SpecView
can communicate to as many as 255 controllers
per comm port. However, for communication
speed considerations, it is recommended
that no more than 30 controllers connect to
a single communications port. If ChromaSoft
is communicating with a 1604 and one of the
other Chromalox controllers (2104 or 3101)
the multi-port option will be needed. The 1604
uses a different communications protocol than
the other controllers.
Historical Replay Option allows the operator
to quickly review data on a trend chart. The
operator can “fast forward” as fast as 240x the
original speed to quickly identify excursions or
problems.
Strategy Controller Option is a powerful feature that allows the user to automate operations. Typical applications include: turning on
an output based on an event, setting multiple
set points from a master, cascade control, etc.
Remote Computer Option
Many applications require operating SpecView
on a computer other than the one connected
to the instruments. Required functions include
remote monitoring and adjustment of instruments.
In a typical networked situation the Local
computer is connected to the instruments.
The Remote computer(s) may be in the same
building or in another country.
Using SpecView Remote Option connection
can be made in 3 possible ways:
- Over a Local Area Network (LAN).
- By using Modem dial-up between computers.
- By making the Local computer available.