VIMSpc

VIMSpc Table of Contents
VIMSpc Table of Contents ........................................................................... 1
VIMSpc User Manual
Overview ..................................................................................................... 5
About VIMSpc Documentation ..................................................................... 6
The Program ......................................................................................... 7
Getting Started........................................................................................... 10
Getting Help ........................................................................................ 11
System Requirements.......................................................................... 12
Installing VIMSpc From The Compact Disk (CD) .................................. 13
Installing VIMSpc from the Compact Disk (CD) .............................. 14
Creating VIMSpc Installation Diskettes .......................................... 17
Installing VIMSpc from Diskettes ................................................... 19
The VIMSpc Workplace ............................................................................. 21
The VIMSpc Workplace ....................................................................... 22
Drop-Down Menus............................................................................... 24
Toolbar................................................................................................ 29
Dialog Boxes ....................................................................................... 31
Report Dialog Basics ........................................................................... 32
Report Dialog Basics.................................................................................. 34
Time Range......................................................................................... 35
Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine ..................................................... 40
Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine............................................... 41
Setup Communication Port .................................................................. 42
Setup System Preferences .................................................................. 43
Setup Data Download .......................................................................... 47
Setup Data Download.................................................................... 48
Data Reset Recommendations ...................................................... 51
While Connected To The Machine ............................................................. 52
While Connected To The Machine ....................................................... 53
View Machine Status ........................................................................... 54
View Real-Time Parameters ................................................................ 56
View Truck Payload Detail ................................................................... 60
Download Data .................................................................................... 62
Using VIMSpc In The Office ....................................................................... 66
Using VIMSpc In The Office................................................................. 67
Merging Download Data ...................................................................... 68
How To Setup Machines In The VIMSpc Database .............................. 70
Setup Shift Definitions.......................................................................... 71
Setup Report Preferences.................................................................... 74
Selecting a Machine ............................................................................ 76
Event Standard Report ........................................................................ 79
Report Preview Tool ............................................................................ 83
Report Printing..................................................................................... 86
Report Page Layout............................................................................. 88
Recorded Data Preview Tools.............................................................. 90
Recorded Data Preview Tools ....................................................... 91
View Snapshot Data ...................................................................... 92
View Data Logger Data.................................................................. 98
Setting up Parameter Groups ...................................................... 100
Customizing the Graphs .............................................................. 102
Setup Sites........................................................................................ 106
Setup Sites.................................................................................. 107
Machine Definitions On Data Merge................................................... 109

Machine definition on Data Merge................................................ 110
How To: ................................................................................................... 112
Collect Data From Machines.............................................................. 113
Download Many Machines........................................................... 114
Connect To / Disconnect From A Machine ..............................................115
Activate The Data Logger ............................................................ 117

Generate And Use Reports................................................................ 119
Trend Reports ............................................................................. 120
Cumulative Reports..................................................................... 125
Loader Payload Reports .............................................................. 129
Audit Trail Reports....................................................................... 141
Shift Based Reports..................................................................... 143
Export Report Data...................................................................... 144
Histogram Reports....................................................................... 148
Histogram Reports .................................................................................148
Histogram Exception Criteria ..................................................................152
Truck Payload Reports ................................................................ 157

Truck Payload Reports ...........................................................................157
Truck Payload Analysis Criteria ..............................................................165
Data Utilities ...................................................................................... 167

Data Utilities................................................................................ 168
Transfer Data To A Different Computer........................................ 169
Transfer Data to a Different Computer.....................................................169
Transfer Downloaded Files without Merging ............................................169
But I Merged the Data Accidentally .........................................................172
Transfer Out Segments of your Database ...........................................172
Transfer In Segments of another Database .............................................176
Manage The Database ................................................................ 179

Update the Database................................................................... 180
Select A Database....................................................................... 181
Select a Default Database ........................................................... 183
Backup the Database .................................................................. 184
Archive the Database .................................................................. 187
Delete Segments of the Database...........................................................191
Compact the Database ................................................................ 193

Open And Close An Archive Database ........................................ 196
Open and Close an Archive Database.....................................................196
Restore A Backup Database........................................................ 198

Configure The Onboard VIMS System ............................................... 200
Configure the Onboard VIMS System .......................................... 201
Install Source and Configuration Files.......................................... 202
Install Configuration File Only ...................................................... 206
Install Loader configuration on ABL machine ............................... 208
Get Configuration Data from Machine.......................................... 209
Copy the Configuration File ......................................................... 211
View and Change the Configuration File ...................................... 213
Set the Serial Number and Equipment Number............................ 214
Set Date/Time/SMH..................................................................... 216
Calibrate Truck Payload .............................................................. 218
Appendix A: Notes For VIMS-pc 2.x Users ............................................... 220
Appendix A: Notes for VIMS-PC 2.X Users ....................................... 221
Setup Machines................................................................................. 222
Import VIMS-PC 2.X Files.................................................................. 225
No Reset Information in Cumulative or Histogram Files...................... 227
Time Range Selection vs. Files Selection........................................... 228
Appendix B: Error Messages.................................................................... 229
Appendix B: Error Messages............................................................. 230

About Caterpillar Vital Information Management System PC (VIMSpc) ..... 241
VIMSpc User Manual
Overview
About VIMSpc Documentation

Extensive, integrated Help is the backbone of the Vital Information Management System PC (VIMSpc)
documentation. All VIMSpc documentation is geared towards the user with some Microsoft Windows familiarity. If
this does not describe you, please take some time to acquaint yourself with Windows before installing VIMSpc.
The Program
Push-Buttons:
The push-buttons found in this program are:
Next>>
This push-button allows you to continue to the next screen.
<<Back
This push-button allows you to return to the previous screen.
OK
This push-button is used to accept an operation.
Cancel
This push-button will exit the current operation and return to the previous dialog box.
Close
This push-button closes the current dialog box.
Exit
This push-button allows you to exit the program.
The Mouse:
The basic terms associated when using a mouse are:
Point
Place the pointer on an icon or item.
Click
Point to an item. Quickly press and release the left mouse button.
Right click
Point to an item. Quickly press and release the right mouse button. This often displays a pop up menu.
Double-click
Point to an item then quickly press and release the left mouse button twice.
Drag
Move the pointer to an item. Press and hold the left mouse button as you move the pointer to a new location. Release
the left mouse button.
These mouse functions are standard Microsoft Windows controls.
Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts:

The following keyboard shortcuts are Microsoft standard selection controls:
Shift
The Shift key is used to highlight a consecutive list of items. To use: click the first item with the mouse. Press and
hold the Shift key while clicking on the last item you want to select. All items in between the two are also
highlighted.
Ctrl
The Ctrl key is used to highlight a non-consecutive list of items. To use: click the first item with the mouse. Press and
hold the Ctrl key while clicking on additional items to highlight them. Click again on the same item to remove the
highlight.
Using Help
Select Contents from the Help menu or push the F1 key. The VIMSpc Help Table of Contents is displayed.
Getting Started
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Getting Help
Your Caterpillar dealer can provide the resources to help you through any difficulties you may
encounter while using VIMSpc software. However, we recommend that you complete the
following steps before contacting your dealer:
Consult the On-Line Help information provided in VIMSpc.
Consult the VIMSpc User Manual.
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System Requirements
What You Need To Run VIMSpc
To successfully run VIMSpc, you will need the following: computer hardware, communication hardware and cables,
and software.
Recommended PC Configurations
IBM PC compatible with Pentium II, 266 MHz processor (MMX recommended)
32 Mb RAM
2 Gb of available hard disk drive
12X speed CD-ROM
3.5" 1.44 Mb diskette drive
Super VGA color monitor or display
RS232 port with 16550AF UART
Built in pointing device or mouse
Software
Microsoft Windows NT (or)
Windows 98 (or)
Windows 95
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Installing VIMSpc From The Compact Disk (CD)
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Installing VIMSpc from the Compact Disk (CD)

Purpose
The installation procedure described below is for installing the Vital Information Management System PC (VIMSpc)
application. The VIMSpc installation program is designed to run under Microsoft Windows. It requires one compact
disk.
Instruction
To install VIMSpc from a compact disk:
Step 1
Step 2
Close any applications you are running, so that only Windows is running. This includes any
connections to mainframe computers or networks.
Insert the VIMSpc Install Compact Disk (CD) into your computer's CD-ROM drive.
Note: The program may automatically start to install. If so, proceed to Step 4.
Step 3
Click the "Start" push-button on the Task Bar. From the file menu click "Run." In the command line text box type:
Z:\setup.exe
If the CD is in a CD-ROM drive other than z, substitute "z" with the appropriate drive letter.
Click the OK pushbutton.
The "Setup is preparing" status box is displayed. It shows the percentage status of the Install
Shield Wizard setup.
When it is finished, the Welcome dialog box is displayed.

Step 4
Read through the welcome message. Click the "Next>" push-button to continue the setup. The Software License
Agreement dialog box is displayed. Click "Cancel" to exit the setup process.
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Step 5
Read through the license agreement. Click the "Yes" push-button to accept the terms and conditions. The Select
Components dialog box is displayed. Click "<Back" to return to the previous screen. Click "No" to exit the setup
process.
Step 6
To install using the CD, click the "Run Setup on this computer" check box. Click the "Next>" push-button to
continue the setup. The Choose Destination Location dialog box is displayed.
Click "<Back" to return to the previous screen. Click "Cancel" to exit the setup process.
Note: To copy diskettes from a CD and install VIMSpc from diskettes, see Installing VIMSpc from Diskettes.
Step 7
Click the "Next>" push-button if you are satisfied with the default destination directory. The Ready to begin copying
files dialog box is displayed.
Click the "Browse" push-button to select a different path than the one shown in the Destination Folder area. The
Choose Folder dialog box is displayed. In this dialog box you can change the directory path, by selecting the drive
and folder where you want to install VIMSpc. To connect to a network drive, Click the "Network" push-button.
Click "OK" when you have finished with the desired path. Click "Cancel" if you decide not to change the path.
Note: If a folder does not exist, in the path selected, a dialog box is displayed asking if you want to create the new
folder.
You will return to the to the Choose Destination Location dialog box. Click "Next>" to assign
the new destination folder. The Ready to begin copying files dialog box is displayed.
Click "<Back" to return to the previous screen. Click "Cancel" to exit the setup process.
Step 8
Review the information in the Current Settings area. Click the "Next>" push-button to begin the wizard setup of
VIMSpc. The Copying program files progress bar is displayed. Click "<Back" to return to the previous screen. Click
"Cancel" to exit the setup process.
Step 9
The setup wizard begins installing VIMSpc to the destination folder. The Copying program files dialog box is
displayed. Click "Cancel" to exit the setup install procedure.
When the installation process is successfully completed, the Setup Complete dialog box is
displayed.
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Step 10
Before VIMSpc is installed, you may need to restart your computer. Select "Yes" radio button to restart you
computer now or select "No" radio button to restart your computer at a later time. Click the "Finish" push-button
to complete the setup. Click "<Back" to return to the previous screen.
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Creating VIMSpc Installation Diskettes

Purpose
This procedure may be used to create VIMSpc installation diskettes to allow you to install
VIMSpc on a computer that does not have a CD-ROM drive. Use a computer that has a CDROM drive to create the install diskettes. The install diskettes can then be used to install
VIMSpc on the target computer (Click here to see how to do that).
Note: To run this procedure, you must have access to a computer that has both a CD-ROM
drive and a 1.44 MB high-density floppy diskette drive. You also need approximately 20 blank,
formatted 1.44 MB high-density diskettes.
To create VIMSpc installation diskettes:
Step 1
Follow the "Installing VIMSpc from the Compact Disk (CD)" instructions until you reach the
Select Components dialog box.
Step 2
Uncheck the "Run Setup on this computer" checkbox.
Step 3
Check the "Build diskettes from the CD" checkbox. Click the Next push-button. The Select
Drive dialog box is displayed.
Step 4
Click the down arrow and select the correct floppy disk drive. This is usually drive A. Click
the Next push-button. The Please Insert a Blank Diskette dialog box is displayed.
Step 5
Insert a blank diskette in the selected disk drive. Click the OK push-button. The diskette copy
process begins. The Copying Disk progress bar is displayed.
Note: The percentage bar may reach 100% while data is still being written to the diskette. Do
not remove the disk until instructed.
Step 6
When the Remove Diskette dialog box is displayed, remove the diskette, label it accordingly,
and insert the next blank diskette. Click the OK push-button.
The Copying Disk progress bar is displayed again for the next disk.
Note: The number of disks required may be different than the example dialog boxes shown
here.
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Step 7
Repeat Step 6 until the last diskette is completed. When the last disk is complete the
Successfully Built dialog box is displayed.
Step 8
Click the OK push-button. The dialog box closes, the Setup program closes, and you return to
the Windows desktop.
Step 9
Remove the compact disk.
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Installing VIMSpc from Diskettes

Purpose
The installation procedure described below is for installing the Vital Information Management
System PC (VIMSpc) application. The VIMSpc installation program is designed to run under
Microsoft Windows. When VIMSpc is delivered to you, it is delivered as a Compact Disk. This
procedure allows you to install VIMSpc on a computer that does not have a CD-ROM drive.
To install VIMSpc from diskettes:

Step 1
Close any applications you are running, so that only Windows is running. This includes any
connections to mainframe computers of networks.
Step 2
Insert the VIMSpc Install diskette #1 into a 3.5 inch, 1.44 Megabyte disk drive.
Step 3
Click the "Start" push-button on the Task Bar. From the file menu click "Run." In the
command line text box type:
a:\setup
If the floppy disk is in a drive other than a, substitute "a" with the appropriate drive letter.
Click the OK push-button.
The "Setup is preparing" status box is displayed. It shows the percentage status of the Install
Shield Wizard setup. When it is finished, the Welcome message box is displayed.
Step 4
Complete the remaining portion of the installation selections. Refer to Installing VIMSpc from
the Compact Disk, step 4 for more information about these selections.
After all selections have been made, the "Please insert the next disk" dialog box is displayed.
Step 5
Remove the current diskette, then insert the requested number disk. Click the OK push-button.
Step 6
Repeat Step 5 until the installation process successfully completes.
Note: Other dialog boxes may be displayed indicating the status of the installation. Please
follow the instructions as displayed on the screen of the computer.
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Note: You may be requested to insert diskettes that you have already inserted in the past. Please follow the instructions
as displayed on the screen of the computer.
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The VIMSpc Workplace
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The VIMSpc Workplace
Purpose
This section will give you a quick look at the VIMSpc application window and its functions. It will also show you
how to move your way around the VIMSpc application.
To open a menu
Click the menu item you want, or drag the selection cursor down the menu until the menu item is highlighted; then
release the mouse button.
Note: After opening the main menu you can move directly to a command on a menu, by typing the letter that is
underlined in the item name.
The following menu conventions are used in VIMSpc:
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Closing a menu without choosing an item
Click the menu name (or)
Click anywhere outside the menu (or)
Click the Esc key.
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Drop-Down Menus
File Menu
The File Menu drop-down items access various functions.
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Data Menu
The Data Menu drop-down items perform communications with the onboard system to access real time data.
Report Menu
The Report Menu drop-down items access reports available in VIMSpc.
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Configure Menu
The Configure Menu drop-down items configure various settings in the onboard system.
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Setup Menu
The Setup Menu drop-down items setup the user configurable features of VIMSpc.
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Help Menu
The Help Menu drop-down items access the on-line Help system and version information about the VIMSpc database
and program.
Accelerator keys
To open a drop-down menu, press and hold the Alt key, then press the key with the underscore.
To select an option within an open menu, simply press the key with the underscore.
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Toolbar
The toolbar allows quick access to the different menu items. It is displayed underneath the menu bar. You can disable
the toolbar by selecting Show Toolbar from the Setup menu; the check in front of the Show Toolbar means the
toolbar is displayed.
Illustration: Toolbar
Each button does the following function:
Select Machine...
Download...
Machine Status...
Real Time Parameters...
Active Data Logger...
Event
Payload...
Loader...
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Preferences...
Setup Machine/Shift
Transfer...
View / Change Configuration
System Preferences...
Help
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Dialog Boxes
Standard dialog boxes
The push-buttons in the upper right corner change the size of the dialog box. These are standard Microsoft Windows
controls.
Minimize Icon: Click to reduce the window to an icon. You may double click the icon to restore the window to
its previous size and location.
Maximize Icon: Click to expand the window to fill the available screen size. When clicked, this icon changes to
the Restore icon.
Restore Icon: Click to return a maximized window to its previous size and location.
Close Window Icon: In a dialog box, this closes the dialog box. In an application window, this exits the
application.
Resizing a dialog box

To resize the application window or a dialog box, move the mouse to any edge or corner of the window. The cursor
changes to a two headed arrow. Drag the edge or corner then release. These are standard Microsoft Windows
controls.
Note: Not all dialog boxes are resizable.
Accelerator keys
In many dialog boxes, there are buttons and other control objects, each with its own label. Sometimes, the label has
an underscore line ( _ ) beneath one of the characters of the label. This is called an accelerator key.
To use a dialog accelerator, press and hold the Alt key, then press the key with the underscore.
Note: Menu accelerators work differently. To open a drop-down menu, press and hold the Alt key, then press the key
with the underscore. To select an option within an open menu, simply press the key with the underscore.
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Report Dialog Basics
Screen Layout
The report dialog boxes have many similar features. The features are explained below.
Type of Report
Select the Type of Report by clicking the arrow on the drop-down list or use the and arrows on the keyboard to
view each item on the list. If there is only one type of report, the drop-down list will be gray.
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Template
Select the Template by clicking the arrow on the drop-down list and then clicking on the item.
33
Report Dialog Basics
34
Time Range
The Time Range area is used to specify the desired time period of a report. Only the data specified is used in the
report.
To select the Time Range:
Step 1
Click on an option button:
Date/Time:
This button allows you to select a specific date range and time range for the report.
The date range is inclusive. For example, selecting a date range of "From: 07/27/98" and "To: 07/28/98" includes all
selected shifts that start on those 2 days.
SMH:
This button allows you to select specific hours for the report.
For example, if you selected "From: 2" and "To: 4" Hours, the report would have data from the beginning of the
second hour to the end of the fourth hour.
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Shift:
This button allows you to select a specific date range and specific shifts for the report.
Shifts are defined and selected as default for use in all reports in the Machine/Shift dialog box in the Setup menu.
Step 2
Select the specific Date(s), Time(s), or Shift (s) for the Report. You can type the values into the edit field, or use the
following selector tools:
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You can select or deselect one or all of the check boxes by clicking on the check box.
This set of arrows allows you to increase (up arrow) or decrease (down arrow) a set of
numbers.
This drop-down push-button opens the calendar dialog box. The month and year are
displayed at the top of the calendar. The selected day is highlighted.
Click the left and right arrow icons on the scroll bar to move by one month. Click in the scroll
bar to move by one year.
Note: Do not use the scroll bar box, as it changes the year in huge increments and is difficult
to use.
Step 3
Some report dialogs contain a refresh push-button (lightning bolt icon) in the Time Range box.
As soon as a From or To time range field is modified, the selection grid below the Time Range
box will be cleared, as in this trend grid.
37
After completing your time range selection, click the Refresh push-button (the lightning bolt)
to repopulate the selection grid.
Only items with data in this time range are displayed in the grid.
Step 4
If you want to select a time range by download data ranges, click the "Select By Downloads..." push-button.
Downloads are sorted in reverse chronological order, the most recent Download Date at the
top. To select, click on a single download, or click and drag over multiple downloads. Click
the OK push-button.
When multiple downloads are selected, the Time Range "From" field is assigned the "Data
From" field of the oldest selected download. The Time Range "To" field is assigned the "Data
To" field of the most recent selected download.
Note: For Cumulative and Histogram reports, Select by Downloads displays the value of the
change between the first and last selected downloads. You must select at least two downloads.
The Time Range "From" field is assigned the "Data To" field of the oldest selected download.
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The Time Range "To" field is assigned the "Data To" field of the most recent selected
download.
Output To
The Output To area will let you choose how the report is produced. There are three different ways to produce a
report:
Preview: Preview the report on the screen.
Printer: Send the report to the printer.

Export: Send the report data to a file.
Note: If Export is selected, the "File..." push-button is enabled. Click "File" to open a dialog box to select the path,
filename, and export format.
Push Button
Some of the push-buttons available in the Report screens are:
Select Machine... Push to open the Select Machine dialog box.
Generate... Push to start the generation of the report after all input selections have been made. This push-button is
the same as the "OK" push-button.
Close Push to close the dialog box. Focus returns to the most recently opened dialog box.
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Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine
40
Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine

Purpose
This section provides a list of setup functions that should be done in the office before connecting to a machine. This
minimizes the amount of time spent on the machine, and ensures that machine data is correctly downloaded and saved.
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Setup Communication Port
The Communications Port (Com Port) function allows your computer to communicate with the machine and
download information from the machine to the computer. VIMSpc must be configured to use the correct
communication port.
To setup the Wired Communication Port:
Step 1
Select Communicate Port from the Setup menu. The Communication Setup dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Select the port by clicking the arrow in the Port drop-down list. Com1 port is default.
Step 3
Number of Retries allows you to set the number of times the computer tries to connect with the machine before
reporting communication failure. Click on the up/down arrow to increase or decrease the number of retries. The
default number is zero. If you are experiencing repeated connection problems while using the program, try setting
this to a higher number.
Step 4
Click "OK" to accept the communication setup. Click "Cancel" to exit the Communication dialog box without saving
changes. You will return to the last active screen.
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Setup System Preferences
The System Preferences function allows you to setup personal preferences that change the way features work in
VIMSpc. You can choose to view machines by either equipment or serial number. You can also set default paths,
regional settings, and communication preferences.
To setup System Preferences:
Step 1
Select System Preferences from the Setup menu. The System Preferences dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Click on one of the Select Machine By options.
Selecting equipment or serial number determines which of these numbers is displayed in

various VIMS functions.
One example is the selected machine displayed on the right side of the status bar.
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Step 3
Choose any Communication check boxes. Default is none checked.
Clicking in the Attempt To Connect check box causes the VIMSpc program to
automatically attempt to connect to a machine when started
Clicking in the After Connection, display Machine Status check box causes the Machine
Status dialog box to be displayed after a successful connection to a machine.
Clicking in the Maximum Time Difference... and clicking on the up/down arrows, next to the
box, increases or decreases the maximum allowed time difference between onboard and offboard clocks. This check is made at various points of communication, and prompts you if the
actual difference is larger. Thirty (30) minutes is the default.
Clicking in the Prompt for Compacting Database before exiting check box causes the
program to prompt you to compact the database every time you exit the program.
Step 4
Clicking on the "Default Paths" push-button displays the Setup Default Paths dialog box.
The Default Paths button allows you to setup disk drives and directory defaults for functions
throughout the VIMS program.
Copy Configuration is for configuration files copied from the machine.
Install Source/Config is for source and configuration files to be installed on the machine.
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Import VIMS-PC 2.X Files is for files to import into the database.
Transfer File is for database files that are generated or read in the Database Transfer function.
Backup Database is for database files that are generated or read in the Database Backup and Restore functions.
Archive Database is for database files that are generated or read in the Database Archive function.
Note: A path is the course that leads from the root directory of a drive to the file you want to use.
The Setup Default Paths dialog box opens with default paths already set. You can change the
default settings by either using the path edit box or the browse icon.
To use the path edit box, highlight the default path and type in the new path. Click "OK" to accept the new path.
Click "Cancel" to exit the Setup Default Paths dialog box without saving changes. You will return to the last active
screen.
If you click on the browse icon, the Select File Path dialog box is displayed. From this dialog box, you can click on
the down arrow of the drive list drop down box to display the drives on your system. Highlight the drive for your
path. In the Select Path box, double clicking on a folder sets the path.
Click "OK" to accept the new path. Click "Cancel" to exit the Setup Default Paths dialog box without saving changes.
You will return to the last active screen.
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Step 5
Clicking on the "Regional Settings" push-button displays the Regional Settings Properties dialog box.
The Regional Settings dialog box lists the international settings from which you can choose.
Selecting a regional setting automatically changes settings on the Number, Currency, Time,
and Date tabs to match those of the region. These settings determine the formats used to
display dates, times and select a measurement system, either US or Metric.
Note: Changes to Regional Settings affect all MS Windows applications on the computer, not just VIMSpc.
46
Setup Data Download
47
Setup Data Download
The Download Data function is used to setup Data Groups before you connect to a machine. A Data Group is a
selection of data to download, and optionally reset, when downloading data from the machine. Setting up Data
Groups before connecting to a machine helps prevent accidental resets of machine data.
To create a Download Data Group:
Step 1
Select Download... from the Data menu. The Download dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Data Selection Download area, check the items you want to download from the Download list. Then select
which of those items you want to Reset After Download.
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Note: Choosing "Reset After Download" permanently clears that data from the VIMS system memory.
Step 3
Click the "Save As..." push-button. The Save As dialog box is displayed.
Step 4
Create and enter the group name in the Group Name text box.
Step 5
Click "Save" if you want to save the group name you just assigned. You will return to the Download Data dialog box.
The Data Group area will display the new Data Group name. Click "Cancel" if you do want to save the group name.
Note: If an existing Data Group is selected, the "Save" and "Delete" push-button become active.
Step 6
Click on the "Close" push-button. You will return to the VIMS main screen.
To modify a Download Data Group:
Step 1
Click on the name of the Data Group. The Data Selection settings are set accordingly.
Step 2
Change the settings as desired.
Step 3
Click the "Save" push-button to save the changes in the current Data Group
-orClick the "Save As" push-button to save the current settings in a new Data Group. Go to
Step 4 of creating a Data Group.
To delete a Download Data Group:
49
Step 1
Click on the name of the Data Group. The Data Selection settings are set accordingly.
Step 2
Click the "Delete" push-button. The group name is removed from the list.
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Data Reset Recommendations

It is critical that you develop consistent practices for resetting VIMS onboard data.
You must develop reset practices based upon your downloading practices and methods of
transferring data between PC's used for downloading and PC's used for analyzing the data. The
frequency of downloading also plays a role in this decision.
For some basic data reset guidelines, please consult SENR6059 which is the VIMS Service
Manual, and RENR2517 which is the Large Wheel Loader VIMS Payload Users Manual.
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While Connected To The Machine
52
While Connected To The Machine

Purpose
This section describes operations used while VIMSpc is connected to a machine. These operations are used to verify
the operation of the machine and the VIMS system, and collect data from the VIMS system memory.
The following instructions assume that you have already physically connected the 127-9797
Cable between the machine's download port and the PC's serial communication (COM) port.
For more information on physically connecting to the machine, see SENR6059 which is the
VIMS Service Manual.
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View Machine Status
The Machine Status dialog box provides a "live" overview of the machine.
To view machine status:
Step 1
Select Machine Status... from the Data menu. The Real-Time Machine Status dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Click the "Close" push-button to exit. You will return to the VIMS main screen.
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View Real-Time Parameters
The Real-Time Parameters function provides a "real" time display of the parameters being monitored by VIMSpc.
You can choose to view all the parameters or parameters for a specific system.
To view real-time parameters:
Step 1
Select Parameters... from the Data menu. The View Parameters dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Select a System Group in the Machine area. That group's parameters are displayed in the right text box.
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To customize the screen:

To resize the screen...
Click on and hold a corner of the dialog box. Drag to the boundary to the desired size.
To resize a column...
Click between two column headings. Drag the boundary on the right side of the column heading until it is the width
you want.
Sorting by column...
Each column can be sorted alphabetically by clicking on the column header you wish to sort.
Visual customization...
Click the right mouse button with the pointer in the parameter area. A settings pop-up menu is displayed. The options
available are:
Fonts Up: Enlarges the font size by one each time you click on it. As a shortcut, you can press the "P" key.
Fonts Down: Decreases the font size by one each time you click on it. As a shortcut, you can press the "O" key.
Fonts: A standard Microsoft Windows Font dialog box is displayed. In this dialog box you may change the Font,
style, size, color, etc of the parameter area.
Background Color: A standard Microsoft Color dialog box is displayed. In this dialog box you may change the
background color of the parameter area
Set to Default Settings: Puts the settings back to their original style.
To customize a group:
Step 1
Select Customized Group (it's at the very bottom of the list) from the tree route in the Machine area.
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer in the machine area. Click "New..." from the pop-up menu. The Modify
Customized Group is displayed.
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Step 3
Highlight an ECM from the Available ECMs text box.
Note: If an ECM does not have any available parameters, the Available Parameters list box is blank.
Step 4
Highlight a parameter in the Available Parameters list box and click the "Add>" push-button. This will move
parameters from the Available Parameters list box to the Group list box (highlighting an ECM/ Parameter in the
Group list box and clicking the "<Remove" push-button will move it back).
You can also double-click on a parameter to move it to or from the Group list box.
Note: To highlight multiple parameters, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
Step 5
Click the "Save As" push-button. The Save As dialog box is displayed.
Step 6
Step 7
Click "Save" if you want to save the new group you just assigned. The Info message box is displayed informing you
your new group is saved. Click "OK."
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Click "Cancel" if you want to leave the Save As dialog box without assigning a name. You
will return to the Modify Customized Group dialog box.
Step 8
Click the "Close" push-button in the Modify Customized Group dialog box.
To edit a customized group:
Step 1
Select the Customized Group from the tree route in the Machine area you wish to edit.
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer in the machine area. Click "Modify..." from the pop-up menu. The
Modify Customized Group is displayed.
Step 3
Highlight an ECM from the Available ECMs text box.
Step 4
Highlight a parameter in the Available Parameters list box and click the "Add>" push-button. This will move
parameters from the Available Parameters list box to the Group list box (highlighting an ECM/ Parameter in the
Group list box and clicking the "<Remove" push-button will move it back).
Step 5
Click "Save" if you want to save the edited group changes. The Info message box is displayed informing you your
new group is saved. Click "OK."
To delete a customized group:
Step 1
Select the Customized Group from the tree route in the Machine area you wish to delete.
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer in the machine area. Click "Delete" from the pop-up menu. The "Are
you sure..." message box is displayed.
Step 3
Click "Yes" if you want to delete the group or "No" if you do not want to delete the group.
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View Truck Payload Detail
View Truck Payload Detail allows you to monitor the details of the truck payload cycle as it
occurs in real time.
To view truck payload cycle detail data:
Step 1
Connect the download cable to the machine.
Step 2
Select Truck Payload Detail from the Data menu. The View Truck Payload Detail dialog box
is displayed.
Step 3
Click the Close push-button to close the dialog box.
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Notes regarding Truck Payload Detail:
Cycle Data Start is the time stamp that is recorded as the cycle time for this cycle.
Strut Pressures are arranged as if looking down on the truck, starting at top left and going
clockwise, Front Left, Front Right, Rear Right, Rear Left.
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Download Data
To download data:
Step 1
Connect the download cable to the machine.
Step 2
Select Download... from the Data menu. The Download dialog box is displayed.
Step 3
In the Data Selection Download area, check the items you want to download from the Download list. Then choose
which of those items you want to Reset After Download.
Note: Choosing Reset After Download permanently clears the machine's memory.
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Special Case: Reset Cumulative and Histogram

The "Reset After Download" checkboxes for Cumulative and Histogram are not available normally, since resetting
Cumulative and Histogram are supposed to be done very rarely. To make the "Reset After Download" checkboxes for
Cumulative and Histogram available:
Step A:
Select System Preferences... from the Setup menu.
The System Preferences dialog box is displayed.
Step B:
Click the "Enable Resetting Cumulative and Histogram" checkbox in the Communication area, and then click the OK
button. The System Preferences dialog box is closed.
Step C:
Select Download... from the Data menu. The Download dialog box is displayed with the "Reset After Download"
checkboxes for Cumulative and Histogram available.
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Note: Resetting Cumulative and/or Histogram makes the "Merge on Download" checkbox checked automatically. You
can not reset Cumulative and/or Histogram without merging them into database. This is to make sure that Cumulative
and Histogram data is correct and useful.
Note: No matter whether the "Merge on Download" checkbox is checked or not, for each successfully downloaded
file, there should be a copy of that file under directory X:\Program Files\vims\download\ Backup, where X is the
drive where VIMS is installed.
Note: After closing the "Download Data" dialog box, if a download of the Cumulatives and/or Histograms (with
reset) is desired, it will be needed to go into the system preferences again to enable the resetting of the Cumulatives
and Histograms.
Step 4
Click the "Download" push-button to start the downloading process. The "Download push-button will change to the
"Cancel" push-button while data is downloading. This allows you to cancel the download at anytime.
Merge on Download:
The "Merge on Download" check box allows you to automatically merge data into the database immediately after it
is successfully downloaded. When selected, downloaded data is merged while simultaneously downloading
remaining data selections.
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If "Merge on Download" is not selected, downloaded data are stored in files. These download files can then be
merged at any time. See the "Merging Download Data" section for how to do this.
Note: Downloaded data must be merged into the database before reports can be generated from that data.
Note: Merging data can take several minutes, depending on the amount of data downloaded, and the speed of your
computer. Data Logger, Trends, Truck Payload, and Loader Payload may contain large amounts of data, and may
require longer merge times. To reduce the time on the machine, do not select "Merge on Download".
To exit the Download Data dialog box:

Click on the "Close" push-button. You will return to the VIMS main screen.
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Using VIMSpc In The Office
66
Using VIMSpc In The Office

Purpose
This section describes operations used in the office, after disconnecting from a machine. These operations are used to
process and analyze the data downloaded from the machine.
Note: These operations can also be done while connected to a machine.
This section describes only the basics of several features to help you become familiar with use of VIMSpc. Additional
information can be found in "How To".
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Merging Download Data
If the "Merge on Download" check box was not checked and data has been successfully downloaded, you can merge
the data in two ways:
To merge downloaded files:

Step 1
Select "Merge Download Files..." from the File menu. The Merge Download Files dialog box is displayed.
-orWhen you restart VIMSpc, the Merge Download Files dialog box is displayed to indicate you
have data that has not been merged.
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Step 2:
Select the file(s) you want to merge. Click the "Merge" push-button. The Merge Downloaded Files... status box is
displayed.
Click "Cancel" to end the auto merge. The file currently being merged is not merged. It
remains in the unmerged file list. Files that completed the merge operation before "Cancel" are
in the database and are no longer in the unmerged file list.
Note: Downloaded data must be merged into the database before reports can be generated from that data.
To delete downloaded files:
Step 1
In the "Merge Download Files..." dialog box, select the files you want to delete. This function can be used if you have
downloaded data from a machine and do not ever want to merge the data into the database.
Step 2
Click the Delete push-button. The files are permanently deleted.
Note: Click "Cancel" to close the Merge Download Files dialog box. This does not cancel previous Delete or Merge
operations.
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How To Setup Machines In The VIMSpc Database

Click here to learn How To Setup Machines In The VIMSpc Database.
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Setup Shift Definitions
The Setup Machine/Shift function also allows you to create custom shift definitions.
To add a new Shift Definition:
Step 1
Select Machine/ Shift from the Setup menu. The Setup Machine/ Shift dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer on Database. A pop-up menu is displayed. Click Shift Definition from the
Add sub-menu. The Shift Definition area is displayed in the Setup Machine/ Shift dialog box.
Step 3
Enter the shift name in the text box.
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Step 4
Select an Hour Clock radio button. This changes the display format of the times. You may change the time format at
any time.
Note: This also changes the format expected when you key in times. See notes in Step 5
below.
Step 5
Customize the grid. Times may be entered using the convenient spin dials to select the desired times, or by keying in
numbers. Spin dials are the suggested method.
Spin Dials: Double click in a cell. Click the up/down arrow to increase or decrease the time.
After a time is entered, you can highlight the hours or minutes and key in the desired time.
-orKey Entry: In 12-Hour format, you must enter times as 06:30 am. You cannot enter a time
greater than 12:59. After entering the numbers, type "a" or "p" to indicate AM or PM,
respectively.
In 24-Hour format, you must enter times as 06:30 or 16:00. You cannot enter a time greater
than 23:59. . In either case, the colon separator is automatically added as you type the
numbers.
Select the cell/s that contain the data you want to copy or delete. Click the right mouse button in a cell. A pop-up
menu is displayed. With this menu you can copy or clear the selected cells.
Select the cell/s you want to insert the copied data into. Click the right mouse button and select paste. You can repeat
this step in other cells.
Step 6
When the grid is complete, click the "Save" push-button. The Shift Name is added to the Database.
Click the "Set As Default" push-button to set the Shift Name as the default shift. The red
check will move to the new default Shift Definition.
The "Check Shifts" push-button checks the entered shift times to make sure the definition is
valid.
A valid shift definition must follow these rules:
Each shift defined must be at least 1 hour but not more than 16 hours.
Shift times must not overlap.
Start time of each shift must be later than the start time of all previous shifts defined for that day.
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(E.g. Shift 2 must start after Shift 1; Shift 2 must start after Shift 3, etc.)
Step 7
Click the Close push-button to close the Setup Machine/Shift dialog box.
Note: Click the Cancel push-button at any time to discard the shift definition you are creating or modifying.
To edit a Shift Definition:
Step 1
Step 2
Click on the shift you want to change. In the Shift Definition area, make the changes.
Step 3
Click the "Save" push-button. The shift changes are saved in the database.
To delete a Shift Definition:
Step 1
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer on the shift you want to delete. Click delete from the pop-up menu. A
"Do you want to Delete?" message box is displayed.
Note: You cannot delete the current default shift. Select a new default shift before deleting the shift.
Step 3
Click "Yes" to delete the shift definition. Click "No" to not delete the shift definition.
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Setup Report Preferences
Report Preferences function allows you to set your default preferences for a report.
To set preferences:
Step 1
Select Preferences from the Report menu. The Setup Report Preferences dialog box is displayed.
Step 2 Select a Range Display. The Range Display area allows you to choose the time range that will initially be
displayed on the report.
Step 3
Last Download: This displays the last pieces of downloaded information from a machine.
Maximum Range: This displays all downloaded information from a machine.
Display Last Inputs: This acts as a bookmark. You can exit and reenter a screen and it will save the last thing you
were working on.
In the Select By area, select an item. Date/Time Range is real time. SMH is Service Meter Hours.
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Step 4
Step 5
In the Report Output area, select a reporting method.
Preview: This allows you to preview the report on the screen.
Printer: This sends the report to the printer.
Export: This sends the report to a file.
Click the "Report Fonts" push-button. The Setup Reports dialog box allows you to change the print type and size
for different report sections.
Clicking on the Change Fonts push-button will display the Fonts dialog box. This dialog box
allows you to change font, font style, font size, and script.
Step 6
Click "OK" to accept the changes or "Cancel" to exit without saving any changes. You will return to the VIMS main
screen.
Step 7
Click "Report Orientations" push-button. A default orientation may be selected for each report type.
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Selecting a Machine
The Select Machine function allows you to run a report from or import data to a selected machine. It will also set
communication to the selected machine after information is downloaded.
To select a machine:
76
Step 1
Choose Select Machine from the File menu. The Select Machine dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Filter Options area, select if you want the machines filtered by Model, Family, or both in the Machines In dropdown list.
If you select Model or Family, you can refine the machine list to a specific type.
Step 3
If you want to filter the list more, select either "And" or "Or." "And" includes only members of group that have
specific functions in common. "Or" includes all of the members of groups.
Step 4
Select if you want the machines filtered by Model, Family, or both in the Belongs To drop-down list.
If you select Model or Family, you can refine the machine list to a specific type.
Step 5
Click the "Apply" push-button to update the Machine Grid with your selected filter options.
If there are no machine with your filter criteria, a message box is displayed. Click "OK."
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Note: The Machine Grid is a spreadsheet of the machine information. In this grid, you can change a column width,
sort a specific column alphabetically, or hide/ show a column using your right mouse button.
Step 6
Click "OK" to accept your machine selection. Click "Cancel" if you do not want to save the changes. You will return
to the last active screen.
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Event Standard Report
The Event Standard Report function allows you to define the data filters: sorting, report type, and output destination
for all event reports.
To create an Event Standard Report:
Step 1
Select Event from the Maintenance menu, then select Standard from the sub-menu. The Event Standard Report dialog
box is displayed.
Note: A machine must be selected. If none is selected, you are prompted to select a machine before proceeding.
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Note: In the Event Standard Report dialog box the only Type of Report available is tabular.
Step 2
Select a Template from those available in the drop-down list.
Note: Several report templates are provided, each with a unique column arrangement and sorting order.
Step 3
In the Time Range area, select a time range. Date/ Time Range is real time. SMH is Service Meter Hours.
Step 4
In the Report Output area, select a reporting method.
Printer: This sends the report to the printer.
Step 5
Click the "Select By Downloads..." push-button to select which Download you want for the report.
Step 6
In the Parameter Group area, highlight the parameter/s you want to be on the report.
Note: To highlight multiple parameters, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
Step 7
In the Event Categories area, select the event you want on the report. Example: checking all the boxes, lists all the
events, checking only number "3", gives you the most severe.
Step 8
Click the "Preferences" push-button to select Event Types.

Maintenance There are two types:
Diagnostic an electronic control detects an abnormal condition in the electrical system.
Sometimes abnormal conditions in the mechanical system can be detected through the
electrical system.
Service - requires a service technician to perform service, usually routine, on the machine or
engine.
Data An abnormal machine or engine condition that can effect machine or engine life.
Step 9
Click the "Generate" push-button to produce the report.
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Note: Use the "Select Machine" push-button to select a new machine to generate a different report.
Event Tabular Report
Notes regarding the Event Tabular report:
Not all events have a worst value or have units. These are typically switch values (e.g. On/Off).
For Maintenance events, the MID, CID, FMI are displayed in the Worst, Limit, and Units columns, respectively.
When an event duration is greater than 18 hours, >18:00:00 is displayed.
Event Summary information is not downloaded by VIMSpc.
The position at which the event occurred is represented by GPS latitude, longitude and altitude.
Special Columns on the Event Report
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Link: This column displays "SS", "DL", or "Both" when there is Snapshot or Data Logger data available at the time
of this event. Click on SS, DL, or Both to view the recorded data.
Fault Indicator: This column displays <Info> next to Maintenance events. Click on <Info> to open the CID/FMI
Fault Description dialog box.
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Report Preview Tool

All reports have Preview as an output option. The Report Preview tool is used to preview all reports, except the
Snapshot and Data Logger reports, which use the Recorded Data Preview tool.
To preview a report:
Step 1
Select "Preview" in the Output To area of the report dialog.
Step 2
Click the Generate push-button.
The preview tool provides fast report generation, fast movement between pages, and background printing. It also has
a more standard user interface.
The preview tool opens shortly after pressing the generate button. Data will appear on the report as soon as it is
processed.
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Note: Report generation can take several minutes, depending on the amount of data to be processed, and the speed of
your computer. Trend Reports, Truck Payload Summary, and Loader Payload Reports are especially computation
intensive, contain large amounts of data, and require longer generation times. To work around this limitation, select a
smaller Time Range in the report dialog.
Preview Tool Bar
All preview functions are available through the icons in the toolbar. The icons are listed and explained below.
Print: Click to print one or more pages of the report. A print dialog opens. The Print button on the button bar
provides the same function as a keyboard shortcut.
Export: Click to export to a data file of a selected format. An Export dialog box opens. The Export button on
the button bar provides the same function as a keyboard shortcut.
Zoom: Click the down arrow to select a preset zoom level, or click on the number, type the desired
zoom percentage, and press Enter.
First Page: Click to go to the first page of the report.
Previous Page: Click to go to the previous page of the report. The Previous button on the button bar provides
the same function as a keyboard shortcut.
Page Indicator/Selector: Indicates the current page. Also, go to a specific page of the report,
click in the text box, type the desired page number, then press Enter. If the number of pages says 1+, 2+, etc., the
system has not yet determined the number of pages. Use the Last Page icon to quickly identify the number of pages
in the report.
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Next Page: Click to go to the next page of the report. The Next button on the button bar provides the same
function as a keyboard shortcut.
Last Page: Click to go to the last page of the report.
Stop: Click to stop the generation of the report. This icon is disabled once the report has been generated.
Search: Click to search for some string on the report. This can be useful on some reports to find a specific
data value or text. A dialog opens enter the search string.
Command Buttons
Buttons are provided at the bottom of the preview tool to provide page movement functions via keyboard commands
as well as mouse clicks at the bottom of the window.
Scroll Bars
The horizontal and vertical scroll bars are only useful for scanning the current report page. All page movement
functions must be done using the icon toolbar or button bar.
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Report Printing
Reports may be printed in one of two ways:
From the report dialog by selecting Printer in the Output To area.
From the Report Preview tool using the "Print" push-button.
To print from the report dialog box:
Step 1
Select "Printer" in the Output To area of the report dialog.
Step 2
Click the Generate push-button. The report is printed to the default printer. (The default printer can be changed from
the File Menu Printer Setup option.)
To print from the Report Preview tool:
Step 1
Select "Preview" in the Output To area of the report dialog.
Note: The printer cannot be changed once the report is generated. To change the printer, go to the File Menu, "Printer
Setup" option before pressing the Generate button.
Step 2
Click the Generate push-button. The Preview opens.
Step 3
Click the "Print" button. The Print dialog box opens.
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Step 4
Select the print range, either All, or Pages to print a range of pages.
Step 5
Click "OK" to print the report. Click "Cancel" to close the Print dialog and return to the report preview.
Note: Printing may take 5-15 seconds per page, depending on the speed of your computer.
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Report Page Layout

Page Header:
When printed, each report contains a header page or pages before the data page or pages.
Program Name, VIMSpc is displayed at the top left of the page header.
Printed: date/time is displayed at the top right of the page header. This indicates the date and time of report
generation, not the time it was sent to the printer. Note that this time may slightly differ between the header pages and
the data pages.
The page header appears on all pages of the report.
Title:
The report title and template name is printed immediately below the page header.
Data Range:
The data range, in either Date/Time or SMH format, is displayed on the header page only.
Selected Machine or Machines:

The Model, Serial Number, Equipment Number of the machine(s) selected for this report is displayed along with the
Download Date/Time and SMH.
Note: The Download Date/Time and SMH is the time of the last download of any data from this machine and has
nothing to do with the time range selected for this report.
Selected Criteria:
Other report selection criteria used to generate this report are displayed below the Selected Machines. For example,
on event reports, the selected Categories, Parameter Groups, and Sort Criteria are listed.
88
Page Footer:
The Page Footer displays the User ID of the user who generated the report and the page number of this report. When
security is disabled, the User ID is "_System".
89
Recorded Data Preview Tools
90
Recorded Data Preview Tools

There are two types of recorded data in the VIMS system: Snapshot and Data Logger. The formats of both types of
data are similar, and the viewing tools in VIMSpc are similar. Recorded data can be viewed in either tabular or
graphical format.
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View Snapshot Data
The View Snapshot function allows you to view the data of selected snapshots. You can also create and save
parameter groups for viewing.
To view a graphical snapshot:
Step 1
Select Maintenance from the Report menu, then select Snapshot from the sub-menu. The View Snapshot dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select Graphical.
Step 3
Highlight a Trigger Time from the Snapshot text box. The events associated with the selected snapshot are displayed.
Associated events are events that occurred during the 6-minute time window of the snapshot, and may or may not have
triggered the snapshot.
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Step 4
Click the "Open" push-button. The Group Edit Screen dialog box is displayed with the current groups listed in the text
box.
Step 5
Highlight a group and click "OK." In the Parameter Group area, the selected group name is displayed.
-orHighlight parameters in the Graph Parameter lists. Up to six parameters may be selected for
each graph. The first selected parameter in each graph is assigned the left inside axis. Each
additional parameter takes the opposite side, outside of any previous axes on that side. The
axis order of six parameters from left to right is #5, #3, #1 <graph> #2, #4, #6.
Step 6
Step 7
In the Output area, select a reporting method:
Export Data
Click the "Generate" push-button. The Snapshot Details dialog box is displayed.
93
Cursor: The current frame is indicated by the vertical hairline cursor. The exact time of the current frame is displayed
below the X axis. The cursor is positioned at a specific frame by clicking on a graph line at the desired point on the X
axis. You must click on a data point. If you are having difficulty positioning the cursor, click the right mouse button
and select "Mark Data Points" in the pop-up menu to see the actual data points.
Parameter Values: Values and units are displayed next to the parameter names in the legend above the graphs. They
represent the value of the parameter in the current frame.
Snapshot Start and End Times: Times are displayed on the X axis, at the far left and right, respectively.
Playback Buttons: select the cursor movement (from the left):
Reverse Play Fast.
Reverse Play.
Reverse Step.
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Pause.
Forward Step.
Forward Play.
Forward Play Fast.
Zoom: Using the mouse, drag a box around the area you want to zoom. Release the mouse. To undo zoom, click the
right mouse button in the graph area. Select "Undo Zoom" in the pop-up menu.
To view a tabular snapshot:
Step 1
Select Maintenance from the Report menu, then select Snapshot from the sub-menu. The View Snapshot dialog box
is displayed.
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select Tabular.
Note: When Tabular is selected, all Parameter Group and Graph selections are disabled. Parameter selections are
done differently in tabular mode.
Step 3
Highlight the Trigger Time from the Snapshot text box. The events associated with the selected snapshot are
displayed.
Step 4
Click the "Generate" push-button. The View Snapshot dialog box is displayed.
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This dialog box has the same features as the View Real Time Parameters function. Refer to section 8 for additional
information.
The View Snapshot Tabular mode has additional features not found in View Real Time Parameters.
The VCR style buttons allow you to (from the left):
Rewind to the first frame of the snapshot.
Reverse Play.
Reverse Step.
Pause.
Forward Step.
Forward Play.
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Advance to the last frame of the snapshot.
Below the VCR buttons is the Data Point selection. This displays the date and time of the current frame. Click the
down arrow, scroll, then click to select a specific frame.
The Update Rate slider is used to change the play speed. Drag right to increase the speed. Drag left to decrease the
speed.
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View Data Logger Data
The View Data Logger function allows you to view the data of a selected data logger segment. The same parameter
group lists and features are available in this function as in the View Snapshot function.
To view a graphical data logger:
Step 1
Select Maintenance from the Report menu, then select Data Logger from the sub-menu. The View Data Logger
dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select Graphical.
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Step 3
Highlight a Downloaded Time from the Data Logger text box.
Step 4
Click the "Open" push-button. The Group Edit Screen dialog box is displayed with the current groups listed in the
text box.
Step 5
Highlight a group and click "OK." In the Parameter Group area, the selected group name is displayed.
Step 6
In the Output area, select a reporting method:
Step 7
Export Data: This sends the report to an ASCII file.
Click the "Generate" push-button. The Data Logger Details dialog box is displayed.
The same graph features are available in this function as in the graphical View Snapshot function.
To view a tabular data logger:
Step 1
Select Maintenance from the Report menu, then select Data Logger from the sub-menu. The View Data Logger
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select Tabular.
Step 3
Highlight a Downloaded Time from the Data Logger text box.
Step 4
Click the "Generate" push-button. The View Data Logger dialog box is displayed.
The same tabular features are available in this function as in the tabular View Snapshot function.
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Setting up Parameter Groups

The Parameter Group area allows you to create custom parameter groups for viewing graphical snapshot and data
logger reports. Groups can be created, saved, altered, or deleted.
To create a parameter group:
Step 1
Select a parameter from the Graph #1 area.
Step 2
Step 3
Note: You do not need to select parameters from Graph #2 or Graph #3. There can be no more than six parameters in
each graph and the total number of parameter selected can not exceed twelve.
Note: To highlight multiple files in a parameter graph, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
Step 4
Click the "Save As" push-button. The Save As dialog box is displayed.
Step 5
Step 6
Click "Save" if you want to save the group name you just assigned. Click "Cancel" if you do want to save the group
name.
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To edit a parameter group:
Step 1
text box.
Step 2
Highlight the group you wish to edit and click "OK." In the Parameter Group area, the selected group name is
displayed. The selected parameters are highlighted in each graph area.
Step 3
Highlight the parameter changes. Click the "Save" push-button. Your changes are made to the group.
To delete a parameter group:
Step 1
text box.
Step 2
Highlight the group you wish to delete and click "OK." In the Parameter Group area, the selected group name is
displayed. The selected parameters are highlighted in each graph area.
Step 3
Click the "Delete" push-button. The group is removed from the Group Edit Screen dialog box.
Note: If the group you want to delete is currently open, you can click the "Delete" push-button without opening the
Group Edit Screen dialog box.
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Customizing the Graphs

Graphical reports provide you with a lot of flexibility. The Y-axis can be independent for each
parameter, or shared among several parameters. Each axis can be custom scaled; line colors,
types and weights changed; text fonts changed; etc.
Customize push-button:
When viewing the graph, click the Customize push-button to open the Customize Graph dialog
box. It allows you to customize the X and Y axes. In these dialog boxes, Graph #1, Graph #2
and Graph #3 refer to the Graph #X Parameters selections made on the report dialog box.
Y Axis: For each graph, select either Independent or Share mode. Independent mode creates a
separate Y axis for each parameter, scaled according to the values of each parameter. Share
mode creates a single scaling, and plots all parameters of that graph in the same scale.
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Y Axis Range: Select a custom range for each Y axis in the graph. With Independent mode, a
range is selected for each parameter. With Shared mode, a single range is selected for the
graph.
X Axis Range: Scale the X axis using the time selections. Typically, there is no need to adjust
the dates.
Note: The zoom feature automatically adjusts the scale of the X and Y axis.
Colors push-button:
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The Colors push button opens the Customize Graph Advanced dialog box. It allows you to
customize the line type and color for each parameter. To change the color, click on the color
square.
Customize pop-up menu:
Click the right mouse button with the pointer in the graph area. A pop-up menu opens.
Experiment with the various selections in this menu. To return to original settings, click the
Original button on the Customization dialog box, discussed below.
Key items of this menu are:
Font Size
Grid Lines
Mark Data Points
Undo Zoom
Maximize
Customization dialog box:
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Double Click on the graph region to open the Customization dialog box. This dialog box
contains features that may have value to certain users. Experiment with the various selections
in this dialog. To return to original settings, click the Original push-button at the bottom of the
Customization dialog box.
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Setup Sites
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Setup Sites
To better organize the machines in the database, you can create sites assign machines to these
sites.
To add a new site to the database:
Step 1
Select Machine/Shift from the Setup menu. The Setup Machine/Shift dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer on Database. A pop-up menu is displayed. Click
Site from the Add sub-menu. The Site Information area is displayed in the Setup
Machine/Shift dialog box.
Step 3
Enter the Name of the site, and any other desired fields. The Name field is the only required
field.
Step 4
Click the "Save" push-button. The site definition is saved in the database.
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To assign a machine to a site:
Step 1
Step 2
Click and drag the machine icon to the site icon. Then release the mouse button.
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Machine Definitions On Data Merge
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Machine definition on Data Merge

A Machine Information Mismatch dialog enables defining a new machine(s) in the database. This dialog
automatically pops up during VIMSpc startup or when Merge Download Files option (see below) is selected from
File menu (if there are un-merged files whose machine definition is not available in the database).
Merge Download Files option...
The Machine Information Mismatch dialog looks like this...
Note: Even if the machine information is present in the database but with a different Model Code, the Machine
Information Mismatch dialog pops with the following message - "The on-board Serial Number has a corresponding
record in the off-board database, but the Model Code does not match. You must either reinstall VIMS onboard with the
configuration of a known model or add this new model# to the off-board database and try again".
Update Off-board (button)
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This button inserts machine information into the database and displays the next machine in the un-merged files, which
doesnt have an entry in the database. It there arent any such files, the Merge Download Files dialog with the list of
un-merged file gets displayed.
Skip (button)
This button helps to skip the machine to go on to the next machine in the un-merged files list.
Cancel (button)
This allows in aborting the process and the control goes back to main screen.
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How To:
Purpose
This How To section documents the best way to perform operations typical to users.
112
Collect Data From Machines

This section contains tips on ways and methods for efficiently collecting data from machines. These methods are
designed to minimize interruption of machine operation.
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Download Many Machines

When downloading a series of machines, perhaps on a ready line, use the following procedure. Use the ground level
serial port connection.
Step 1
Connect the serial cable between the computer serial port and the machine serial port.
Step 2
Start VIMSpc.
Step 3
In the Data menu, select the Download option. If not already connected, VIMSpc connects to the machine. The
Download Data dialog box is displayed.
Step 4
Highlight a download group that you have previously setup to download (and optionally reset) the desired data
selections. If you do not have a download group, check the desired data selections.
Step 5
Do NOT select Merge on Download. Data merging may take several minutes.
Step 6
Click the Download push-button. Monitor the progress bars until "Operation completed successfully" is displayed.
Close the Download Data dialog box.
Step 7
In the File menu, select the Disconnect Machine option. The "Communications disconnected" message is displayed.
Click the OK button to close the message box. Do not exit VIMSpc.
Step 8
Disconnect the serial cable from this machine, move to the next machine, and connect the serial cable to the next
machine. Proceed to Step 3 and repeat.
This process results in a set of download files for each machine. The download files contain all the information about
the machine required to merge the data into the database.
These files can be merged into the database at any time. The files must be merged before the data can be viewed in a
report.
This process may be used with a laptop PC dedicated to data collection. Download files can then be copied to a
different computer for merging and analyzing data.
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Note: To merge the download files on a different computer, you must first setup the machine in
the database. For more information, see Setup Machines.
Note: There is no limit to the number of machines that may be downloaded before data is merged into the database.
Also, a given machine may be downloaded multiple times without overwriting downloaded files.
Connect To / Disconnect From A Machine
The Connect/Disconnect function allows you to disconnect from one machine and connect to
another without exiting the application. This is useful when downloading data from a series of
machines. It is also useful for isolating communication problems during connection.
To connect to a machine:
Select Connect Machine from the File menu. "Trying to connect..." is displayed on the status
bar. When VIMSpc is connected to a machine the baud rate of connection is displayed on the
status bar. The arrows turn to green.
Note: The Connect drop-down option is replaced with the Disconnect drop-down option when
VIMS is connected.
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To disconnect from a machine:
Select Disconnect Machine from the File menu. When VIMSpc is disconnected from the
arrows turn red.
Note: The Disconnect drop-down option is replaced with the Connect drop-down option when
VIMS is disconnected.
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Activate The Data Logger
The Data Logger function allows the capture, in real-time, of all machine parameters that
VIMS monitors in one second intervals. Data Logger operates similarly to the event recorder;
however, the service tool or keypad must manually activate the Data Logger. The total
recording time is 30 minutes and 8 seconds.
To activate the Data Logger:
Step 1
Select Activate Data Logger from the Data menu. The Data Logger dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
Click the On radio button. Status on the dialog box reads ON.
Step 3
Click the "Close" push-button. VIMS will collect the data for 30 minutes or until instructed to
stop.
To stop the Data Logger:
Step 1
Select Activate Data Logger from the Data menu. The Data Logger dialog box is displayed.
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Step 2
Click the OFF radio button. The status box will illustrate amount of time recorded. The Status
on the dialog box reads OFF.
Step 3
Click the "Reset" push-button to erase collected data.
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Generate And Use Reports

This section discusses the details of each report dialog and report, except for the Event, Snapshot and Data Logger
reports discussed in the previous section.
It is not necessary to be connected to a machine to generate reports.
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Trend Reports
The Trend Report allows you to define the data filters: report type, time range, output destination, and select trends
for all trend reports.
There are three types of trend reports: Graphical, Tabular, and Summary.
Graphical: This report creates a line graph of the selected trends over time. This graph provides a high level view of
a large amount of trend data. It is useful for locating changes in a trend.
Tabular: This report creates a table of trend values, one column for each selected trend, each row representing one
trend interval. This is useful for analyzing the details of a certain time range of a trend.
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Summary: This report creates a list of trends in the left most column, with Average, Minimum, and Maximum
values for each trend selected.
To generate a Trend Report:
Step 1
Select Prognostic from the Report menu, then select Trend from the sub-menu. The Trend Report dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
Step 3
In the Type of Report area, select either Graphical or Tabular.
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time or Service Meter Hours (SMH).
After selecting the time range, click the refresh push-button (lightning bolt icon) to update the Trend Grid.
Step 4
In the Output To area, select a reporting method.

Step 5
In the Trend Grid, highlight the trend/s you want on your report
A trend is defined by its Description, Type, Condition, Interval, and Units. For more information about trends, refer
to SENR6059 which is the VIMS Service Manual.
Only those trends that have data in the selected time range are displayed in the grid. If there is no data in the selected
time range, a message is displayed, and the grid is cleared.
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Click on a row to highlight a trend. To highlight multiple trends, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
Note: Use the "Select Machines" push-button to select a different machine for which to generate a report.
Step 6
Trend Graphical Report
Each selected trend is displayed in the legend and is assigned an axis, and a line type and line color. The Condition,
Type and Units are displayed along the Y axis.
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Up to six trends may be selected. The first selected trend (at the top left of the legend) is assigned the left inside axis.
Each additional trend takes the opposite side, outside of any previous axes on that side. The axis order of six trends
from left to right is #5, #3, #1 <graph> #2, #4, #6.
Symbols such as a circle, an asterisk or an arrowhead indicate a stand-alone data point. This occurs when there is
Failure Mode Identifier (FMI) data or no data on both sides of that point. Gaps in line data indicate ranges of FMI
data or no data. These gaps can occur when conditions are not met for the trend, or the machine is not operated for
the entire duration of the trend interval.
If at least one selected trend has data, trends with no data appear in the legend of the graph and are assigned a Y axis,
but have no data line.
Trend Tabular Report
The time stamp of the trend point is displayed in the left column. Each selected trend is displayed as an additional
column. Columns may not be rearranged. The average of each trend is displayed at the bottom of the last page of
trend data.
FMI values are displayed when present in the data. If the trend has no data for a particular time stamp, the value for
that trend is blank. This occurs when trends with different sample intervals are displayed in the same report.
Columns with a header, but no data, indicate trends with no data for the selected time range.
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For additional information on using trend data, see SELD7001 which is the "VIMS Application Guide."
Trend Summary Report
The selected trends are listed, with description, type, condition and units. For each trend, the average, minimum, and
maximum are calculated and displayed.
All calculations disregard records containing no data or FMI values.
For additional information on using trend data, see SELD7001 "VIMS Application Guide."
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Cumulative Reports
The Cumulative Report allows you to define the data filters: report type, time range, output destination, and select
cumulatives for all cumulative reports.
Note: From time is NOT disabled.
There are two types of cumulative reports: Tabular, and Summary.
Tabular: This report creates a table of selected cumulative values. For each cumulative, the download value for a
specified date and time and the accumulated total for the selected time range is displayed.
Summary: This report creates a table of selected cumulative values. For each cumulative, "Total Cumulative
Values" and "Normalized Cumulative Values" are displayed.
To generate a Cumulative Report:
Step 1
Select Prognostic from the Report menu, then select Cumulative from the sub-menu. The Cumulative Report dialog
box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time or Service Meter Hours (SMH). Totals are
always calculated from the first data in the database.
After selecting the time range, click the refresh push-button (lightning bolt icon) to update the
Cumulative Grid.
Step 3
Step 4
In the Cumulative Grid, highlight the cumulative(s) that you want on your report.
Selecting Cumulatives
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A cumulative is defined by its Description and Units. For more information about cumulatives, refer to SENR6059
which is the VIMS Service Manual.
Only those cumulatives that have data in the selected time range are displayed in the grid. If
there is no data in the selected time range, a message is displayed, and the grid is cleared.
Click on a row to highlight a cumulative. To highlight multiple cumulatives, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard
Shortcuts.
Step 5

Cumulative Tabular Report
Each selected cumulative and its units are displayed.
Download Value at 1/2/01 9:56:23PM

This is the value of the cumulative at the time displayed in the column header 1/2/01 9:56:23PM. This is the value since
the last reset before 1/2/01 9:56:23PM, not the total accumulated value. 1/2/01 9:56:23PM is the time of the last
download performed within the Time Range entered.
Total (10/12/00 10:30:44 AM 1/2/01 9:56:23 PM)
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This is the total value of the cumulative from 10/12/00 10:30:44 AM to 1/2/01 9:56:23 PM. This number accounts for
resets of the onboard data and calculates a true accumulation of all downloads stored in this database. 10/12/00
10:30:44 AM is the time of the earliest download performed within the Time Range entered. 1/2/01 9:56:23PM is the
time of the last download performed within the Time Range entered.
Cumulative Summary Report
Total Cumulative Value Life Time (42122 hour in the above report)
This is the total value of the cumulative for life time. This number accounts for resets of the onboard data and
calculates a true accumulation of all downloads stored in this database. 42122 hour is SMH for the life time at the last
download time. Even if only one download file with reset was not merged into the database, this number will not be
correct.
Total Cumulative Value The Selected Period (1229 hour in the above report)
This is the total value of the cumulative for the selected period. The Selected Period is from the time of the earliest
download performed within the Time Range entered to the time of the last download performed within the Time Range
entered. This number accounts for resets of the onboard data and calculates a true accumulation of all downloads stored
in this database. 1229 hour is SMH for the selected period. As long as all download files with reset during the selected
period were merged into the database, this number is correct.
Total Cumulative Value Last Download (248 hour in the above report)
This is the total value of the cumulative for the Last Download period. The Last Download period is from the time of
the second last download performed to the time of the last download performed. If the second last download also reset
the onboard data, this number is equal to the last download value; otherwise, it is equal to the last download value
minus the second last download value. 248 hour is SMH for the Last Download period.
Normalized Cumulative Value in General

Normalized Cumulative Value is calculated as follows:
For cumulative data with unit Hour, the unit for Normalized Cumulative is %. It is equal to Total Cumulative Value
for the period times 100 and then divided by the SMH for that period.
For # of Eng Revolutions cumulative, the unit for Normalized Cumulative is RPM. It is equal to Total Cumulative
Value for the period divided by the SMH for that period and again by 60.
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For Number of Starts cumulative, the unit for Normalized Cumulative is hour/Start. It is equal to the SMH for that
period divided by Total Cumulative Value for the period.
For all other cumulative data, the unit for Normalized Cumulative is the unit for the cumulative per hour (i.e.
Count/hour, gal/hour etc.). It is equal to the Total Cumulative Value for the period divided by the SMH for that period.
Normalized Cumulative Value Life Time (42122 hour in the above report)
Normalized Cumulative Value The Selected Period (1229 hour in the above report)
Normalized Cumulative Value Last Download (248 hour in the above report)
Note: The reset information is collected when VIMSpc does the download and reset. If VIMS
is downloaded and reset with a different computer, the data must be transferred to your
computer to get accurate Total values. For more information, see "Transfer Data to a Different
Computer".
Note: Because there is no reset information in the VIMS-PC 2.4 cumulative files (.cum, .hcm),
imported cumulative data cannot account for resets done with VIMS-PC 2.4.
For additional information on using cumulative data, see SELD7001 "VIMS Application
Guide."
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Loader Payload Reports
The Loader Payload Report dialog box allows you to define the data filters: report type, time range, output
destination, and select Trucks, Materials and Status values for all Loader Payload reports.
There are two types of loader payload reports: Summary and Detail.
Summary: This report is a single page of productivity totals and averages. It is useful for determining the overall
productivity of a machine over any time range.
Detail: This report creates a table of loader payload cycles and/or status codes. This is useful for analyzing the
detailed characteristics of a loader over a smaller time range.
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To generate a Loader Payload Report:
Step 1
Select Production from the Report menu, then select Loader from the sub-menu. The Loader Payload Report dialog
box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select either Summary or Detail.
Step 3
If report type is Detail, select a template.
Step 4
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time, Service Meter Hours
(SMH), or Shift.
Time Range Considerations

Shift Mode: If a truck record spans between selected and non-selected shifts, then only the
bucket cycles which occur in the selected shift are used and the truck is counted.
Service Meter Hour Mode: The selected SMH interval is cross-referenced to the nearest
date/time stamp found in the database. The date/time range is used for all time-based
calculations. Total Time is based on the difference between the cross-referenced date/times.
Step 5
Step 6
In the Truck, Material, and Status list boxes, highlight the specific Trucks, Materials, and Status records you want
included in your report. By default, all are selected. To highlight multiple items, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard
Shortcuts.
The Truck list box contains all trucks defined in downloads from the selected machine. If a
truck is deselected, all records with that Truck ID are excluded from the report.
The Material list box contains all defined in downloads from the selected machine. If a
material is deselected, all records identified with that material are excluded from the report.
(Example: Ore, Tactile, UNKNOWN, Waste)
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The Status list box contains all Status Codes defined in downloads from the selected machine.
If a status code is deselected, all records with that Status Code are excluded from the report.
Step 7
Loader Payload Summary Report

Before the Loader Payload Summary report can be generated, the following requirements must be satisfied:
Minimum of one second of production time.
One bucket cycle.
One truck stored.
Statistics Based on Loader Cycles
The production figures are based on loader bucket cycles, not on complete truck records. A bucket status flag
indicates the reliability of the weights. This status indicates when some scenario prevented the system from making a
reliable measurement. There are four possible messages:
Success
AutoReq
Reweighed
RewReq
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Each bucket can have only one entry, even if it is reweighed. Although the failed weights are questionable, they are
the only measurements recorded, and therefore, are included throughout the report in all weight calculations except
Bucket Payload average.
When the measured bucket weight is less than 50% of the rated capacity of the loader, the lift is considered pile
cleanup. These cleanup lifts are included as production.
Truck records with no bucket cycles are excluded from the truck counts.
The units conversion factor is 1.1023 US Tons per Metric tonne, 1.306 cubic yards per cubic meter, and 1.185
(Metric tonnes per cubic meter) equals 1 (US Ton per cubic yard).
Total Time: The duration of time in the selected Time Range. Non selected shifts are not included. If a truck record
spans between selected and non-selected times or shifts, then only the bucket cycles that occur in the selected time
range, or shift, are used. However, the truck is counted. This total time will equal the sum of Production Time,
Labeled Delay Time and Auto Delay Time.
Production Time: The portion of Total Time accounted as production. Production time consists of time between all
bucket cycles and includes delay time between the last bucket and Auto Delay time stamp. All Auto Delay
calculations are based on the Auto Delay value in the payload data most recently downloaded or imported from this
machine.
Note: This is different than VIMS-PC 2.4, which assumed a 60 second Auto Delay setting regardless of the actual
value. Therefore, VIMSpc report values based on Auto Delay calculations may differ from those in VIMS-PC 2.4.
Labeled Delay Time: The portion of Total Time accounted as expected delays. This includes all keypad entered
delay time (i.e. Lunch, Refueling, Maintenance, etc. for non shift reports), key off periods, and shift change delay
times, (based on the current default shift selected in the Setup Machine/Shift dialog box).
Auto Delay Time: The portion of Total Time accounted as unexpected delay. This includes the time between Auto
Delay time stamps and return to production (or key off or a keypad entered delay time).
Note: The Auto Delay enable time (normally 60 seconds) is set in the configuration using View Change
Configuration in the Configure menu.
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Material Moved: Total tonnage of material moved in the selected Time Range. This includes light buckets and
Reweigh Requested buckets.
Loader Buckets: Total bucket count. It is used to calculate the Material Moved field.
Bucket Payload: Average bucket payload in the selected time range. Buckets identified with the Reweigh status flag
are excluded from the average. This average is more accurate and may be different than Material Moved divided by
Loader Buckets. Also displays the percentage of loader buckets that had a successful weight. Only buckets with
successful weights are used to calculate the average.
Cycle Time: Optimized loader cycle time, averaged over the selected Time Range. Cycles are measured from bucket
weigh to bucket weigh. All cycles interrupted with Auto Delay or any Labeled Delay code are discarded. This avoids
pile cleanup and truck spotting time. Buckets with reweigh status flags are excluded. The percentage of cycles used to
calculate the average is displayed.
Payload Distribution: This is a tabular histogram of the bucket weights reported in the selected time range.
Bucket Payload: Payload intervals are set to the following weight ranges, regardless of unit of measure. These ranges
are independent of model.
< 15 ton
15 to 20 ton
20 to 25 ton
25 to 30 ton
30 to 35 ton
35 to 40 ton
>= 40 ton
Units and annotation are relative to the localized setting for Metric (t) or English (Ton).
Count: Number of buckets whose weight is in each range. The sum of all counts listed should equal the Loader
Buckets total.
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% (Percent): Percentage of the count for each weight range verses the total number of loader buckets. The sum of all
percentages will equal 100%.
Collected Data based on Truck Count from Store Button Presses
The following calculations, related to truck count, are based on the operator pressing the store button for each truck
loaded. If the selected time range begins or ends while a truck is being loaded, the partial truck is counted. Therefore,
consecutive reports may accumulate an additional truck. This problem is minimized because data in the database is
continuous. Without accurate store button input, data will be inaccurate for the fields labeled:
Trucks Loaded
Passes/Truck
Truck to Truck
Trucks Loaded/Hr
Also, if the size of the truck is not consistent throughout the report time range, truck statistics loose significance.
When the STORE button is used and the truck size is consistent, an average truck exchange time can be calculated
with the equation:
Truck Exchange = Truck to Truck - ((Passes/Truck - 1) * Cycle time)
Trucks Loaded: Total number of trucks counted in selected time range. Trucks are recorded by pressing the STORE
button onboard.
Passes/Truck: Average number of loader buckets per truck in the Trucks Loaded field. This value should equal
Loader Buckets divided by Trucks Loaded. This field assumes a consistent size of truck is loaded through out the
report time range.
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Truck To Truck: Average time duration measured from STORE button press to STORE button press. Only those
trucks stored in the same shift are averaged. All trucks interrupted by a Labeled Delay code or shift change are
discarded. This field assumes a consistent size of truck is loaded through out the reporting period. This Value may
differ from Total Time divided by Trucks Loaded, due to the exclusions.
Production Based On: The following productivity statistics are calculated three ways. This provides a way to
measure the wheel loader performance relative to the burden it was given.
Total Time: The figures in this row measure data with respect to the complete shifts or entire 24-hour days. The time
base for these calculations is Total Time, including production and all delay time. These values reflect what
contribution this machine had on the mines performance.
Production and Auto Delay: The figures in this row account for the expected and excusable delays caused by normal
operation. The time base for these calculations is Total Time minus Labeled Delay Time, or Production Time plus
Auto Delay Time. These values reflect how well the machine worked for the operator and the conditions
encountered.
Production Time Only: The figures in this row account only the time that the machine was actively performing. The
time base for these calculations is Production Time, excluding all delay times. This gives optimized production rates.
These are not maximum rates, since they are calculated from variables based on the operators cycle time and bucket
payload. These values predict how well the machine would perform for the operator under ideal conditions. They
provide a target to aim at when considering alternate improvements.
Material/60 Min: Average tonnage of material moved per 60-minute hour within the selected time range. This
average will equal Material Moved divided by the time base for the row. Annotations are relative to localized setting
for Metric (t) or English (Ton).
Trucks Loaded/60 Min: Average number of trucks stored per 60-minute hour within the selected time range. Trucks
are recorded by pressing the STORE button onboard. This average will equal Trucks Loaded divided by the time base
for the row. This field assumes a consistent size of truck is loaded through out the report time range.
Bank Volume/60 Min: Average Bank Cubic Yards, or Bank Cubic Meters of material moved per 60-minute hour
within the selected time range. The material density is used in the calculation, on a truck by truck summation of each
material recorded from onboard selections. The material densities used to convert weight to volume are in the
configuration, set using View Change Configuration. If a material density is not available, the default of 2.1 tons per
cubic yard is used. Units and annotation are relative to the localized setting for Metric (bcm) or English (bcy).
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Loader Payload Detail Reports
There are many categories of Loader Payload Detail templates:
Combined
Combined, SMH
Cycle
Cycle, SMH
Export All Data
Status
Status, SMH
For each template, either Date/Time or SMH can be selected.
The header page lists the criteria selected for the report. If Shift based Time Range is used, the selected shifts are
listed.
Initial Page Of Report

This is only part of the page
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Selected Material Summary:
Material: This is a listing of all the material descriptions in the payload data downloaded or imported from this
machine. Deselected material will have the data to the right of each selection replaced by a dash since they do not
contribute to the figures at the top of the page.
Operator Hours: This is the sum of the hours recorded in the truck records not excluded because of INVALID
TRUCK RULES. This calculation is not affected by INVALID CYCLE RULES since it is truck based.
Weight: This is the sum of the bucket payload of valid cycles.
Number of Trucks: This is the number of valid trucks carrying the given material.
Number of Passes: This is the number of valid cycles recorded for this particular material.
Average Fill (%): This is the total field for the previously discussed sections of the detail report.
Selected Trucks: This lists the trucks selected to include in this report.
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Selected Status: This lists the status codes selected to include in this report.
Detail Data Section Of Report

This is only part of a page
Date/Time: The calculated date and time in which the cycle or status record occurred.
SMH: The service meter hour in which the cycle or status record occurred.
Truck ID: This is a text string associated with the Truck ID. Each cycle or status record is associated with a certain
Truck ID.
Operator ID: This is the text string associated with the operator ID. Each cycle or status record is associated with a
certain operator ID. UNKNOWN is the default text.
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Material Description: This is the text string associated with the material ID. Each cycle or status record is associated
with a certain cycle or status record. UNKNOWN is the default text.
Load Site Description: This is the text string associated with the loadsite ID. Each cycle or status record is
associated with a certain cycle or status record. UNKNOWN is the default text.
Blast Number: This number is keyed in by the operator to indicate the blast with which to associate a given material.
The onboard default is 0. This information is stored in the truck record that produced a given cycle or status record.
Fuel Used:
Bucket Weight: This is the weight associated with a given cycle record extracted from a truck record. Units are
scaled to either Metric (t) or English (Ton).
Bucket Status: This text string corresponds to an internal code indicating the status of the Loader Payload System
during that particular cycle record. Bucket Status can be one of four possible values.
Normal - Indicates that the system functioned normally when recording the displayed weight.
Request - indicates that the system detected a problem in the load measurement but the operator chose not to reweigh
the load.
Rew Req - Indicates the system successfully reweighed the load stored in the cycle record.
Reweigh - Indicates the system successfully reweighed the load stored in the cycle record.
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Machine Status: This field displays the text string associated with the status record extracted from a given truck
record.
(Example: AUTODELAY, PRODUCTION)
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Audit Trail Reports

The Machine Audit Trail is a listing of machine connection history and the details of what
communications occurred between the computer and the onboard VIMS system during
connection.
To generate an audit trail report:
Step 1
Select Miscellaneous from the Report menu, then select Machine Audit Trail from the submenu.
The Machine Audit Trail dialog box is displayed.
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The Machine Audit Trail dialog box allows you to define certain data filters (for all audit trail
reports) such as type of report and time range.
Note: In the Machine Audit Trail dialog box, the only Type of Report available is tabular.
Step 2
Select a Template from those available in the drop-down list.
Step 3
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time.
Step 4
Step 5
In the Machine Selection check box, check to include all machines, even those not setup in
this database. Uncheck to limit the report interactions with only those machines listed in the
Setup Machine list.
Step 6
In the Delete check box, check to clear all audit trail data after generating this report. Uncheck
to maintain the audit trail in the database.
A Machine Audit Trail Report looks like this
Notes regarding the Machine Audit Trail report:
Equipment Number is blank for machines not setup in this database.
Version is the onboard VIMS system source version.
Component Description is the operational component of VIMSpc that was used with this
machine.
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Shift Based Reports

Purpose
Some reports can be generated on a shift basis. If the report has the capability to do shift
reporting, the Shift option is enabled in the Time Range area of the report dialog. Truck
Payload is one example.
The key to generating a shift based report is selecting the shift definition to apply.
To select a shift definition to apply against a report:
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Click on the shift you want to apply to the shift based report.
Click the Set as Default push-button. The red check will move to the new Shift
Definition. This shift is now used for all reports.
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Export Report Data

Users may want to output data from the VIMSpc database to a format that can be viewed in another program, such as
a spreadsheet. The Export feature provides this capability.
Output box for Data Logger and Snapshot...
Output box for all report types other than Data Logger and Snapshot...
On every report dialog, the Output To area has an Export button (or an Export Data button). This option is used to
create a file of report data. The data content of the export file is determined by the criteria you have selected on the
report dialog. The format of the export file is selected by you.
To export data from a report:
Step 1
Select the report dialog of the type of data that you want to export.
Step 2
Select the Report Type and Template (if applicable).
Note: For tabular or detail reports with Template options, select the Export All Data template to export every data
field available in the database.
Step 3
Select the data to export using the Select Machine button, the Time Range and any other criteria selections on the
report dialog.
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Step 4
In the Output To section, select the Export radio button.
Step 5
Click the Generate push-button to proceed. After some time to generate the report, the Export dialog opens.
Step 6
Select a Format and a Destination. In the Destination drop box, select the "Disk file" option to save to a file. Press
the OK push-button to continue. The Choose Export File dialog box opens. This is a standard Windows file save
dialog box.
Step 7
Select the desired directory and file name, then press the Save push-button. The Exporting Records dialog opens and
tracks the progress of the export process.
Step 8
After completion, the Exporting Records dialog closes and you are returned to the report dialog box. This completes
the export.
Note: This export procedure can be initiated by pressing the export push-button from within the report preview tool.
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Export File Contents

The exact content of the data varies from report to report. This list shows the expected content of the data for the
various reports.
Tabular: Data is exported in columns that corresponding to the columns on the printed report. Examples: Event,
Trend Tabular, Cumulative, Histogram Summary, Payload Detail, Machine Audit Trail.
Line Graphs: Data is exported in columns that correspond to each data line in a graphical report. This is similar to the
Tabular export. Examples: Snapshot Graphical, Data Logger Graphical, Trend Graphical, Truck Payload Graphical.
Histogram Graphs: Data is exported in rows that correspond to each histogram cell. The cell boundaries, percentage
and raw count are exported. Examples: Histogram Graphical, Truck Payload Load Distribution.
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Summary: Each report field and its data are converted into a pair of cells. Examples: Truck Payload Summary,
Loader Payload Summary. Tip: when importing summary exports into spreadsheets, transpose the two rows of data
into columns.
Note: Time of day is exported as a fractional portion of a 24-hour day. For example, midnight is 0.0, 6:00 am is 0.25,
and noon is 0.5. This facilitates selection of time display formats in spreadsheet programs.
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Histogram Reports
Histogram Reports
The Histogram Report allows you to define the data filters: report type, time range, output destination, and select
histograms for all histogram reports.
There are two types of histogram reports: Summary and Graphical.
Summary: This report creates a table of selected histograms. For each histogram, the Low, Target, and High
percentages are calculated from the Histogram Analysis Criteria. Values are displayed for both the Last Download
and the Total within the selected time range.
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Graphical: This report creates a vertical bar graph for each selected histogram. Each histogram is on a separate page
of the report.
To generate a Histogram Report:
Step 1
Select Prognostic from the Report menu, then select Histogram from the sub-menu. The Histogram Standard Report
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select either Summary or Graphical.
Step 3
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time or Service Meter Hours (SMH).
After selecting the time range, click the refresh push-button (lightning bolt icon) to update the
Histogram Grid.
Step 4
Step 5
In the Histogram Grid, highlight the histogram/s you want on your report.
Selecting Histograms
A histogram is defined by its Description and Units. For more information about histograms, refer to SENR6059
which is the VIMS Service Manual.
Only those histograms that have data in the selected time range are displayed in the grid. If
there is no data in the selected time range, a message is displayed, and the grid is cleared.
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Click on a row to highlight a histogram. To highlight multiple histograms, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard
Shortcuts.
Step 6

Histogram Summary Report
Each selected histogram and its units are displayed.
Last Download Value

This is the histogram value of the most recent download in the selected time range. This is the
value since the last reset.
Total Value Columns (last three columns) Heading:

The From Time in Total Value column header is the time of the earliest download performed within the Time Range
entered. The To Time in Total Value column header is the time of the last download performed within the Time
Range entered.
Low/Target/High:
Each value represents the percentage of hits with respect to the target range specified in the
Histogram Analysis Criteria.
Low: hits less than the lower boundary of the target range.
Target: hits within the target range.
High: hits greater than the upper boundary of the target range.
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Note: The reset information is collected when VIMSpc does the download and reset. If VIMS
is downloaded and reset with a different computer, the data must be transferred to your
computer to get accurate Total values. For more information, see "Transfer Data to a Different
Computer".
Note: Because there is no reset information in the VIMS-PC 2.4 histogram files (.hst, .hhs),
imported histogram data cannot account for resets done with VIMS-PC 2.4.
Histogram Graphical Report
A vertical bar graph is produced for each selected histogram. Each graph occupies a single page of the report.
The Y axis always represents the percentage of the total counts. It is automatically scaled according to the largest bar.
The X axis is in the units of the selected histogram. The cell range is displayed below each bar. A cell range of
158.00 167.00 includes all values greater than or equal to 158 and less than 167. The number at the top of each bar
is the percentage for that bar.
Note: It is possible for a number such as 0.1 or 0.0 to be displayed with no bar beneath it. This is because the bar is so
small it cannot be seen, and in the case of 0.0, the percentage of total counts rounds down to zero. If a number is
displayed, there is at least 1 count in that cell.
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Two dashed vertical lines indicate the lower and upper boundaries of the target range, per the Histogram Analysis
Criteria entries for the histogram.
For additional information on using histogram data, see SELD7001 "VIMS Application Guide."
Histogram Exception Criteria
Histogram Exception Criteria are used to set baselines for analyzing histogram data. The
criteria settings affect the histogram reports as follows:
Histogram Summary report Lower Boundary and Upper Boundary define the width of the
target region. This is used to determine the Low, Target, and High percentages on the report.
Histogram Graphical report - Lower Boundary and Upper Boundary define the position of the
vertical target lines on the graphical report.
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To modify Histogram Exception Criteria:
Step 1
Select Exception Criteria Setup from the Report menu. The Exception Criteria dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
Select the Model for which you are setting criteria. The criteria grid displays the criteria for
the selected model. Each criteria is defined by the following fields:
Description the name of the histogram
Lower Boundary the low end of the target range
Upper Boundary the high end of the target range
Units the unit of the histogram data and boundaries
Target the desired percentage within the target range
Apply indicates whether to apply the criteria for reports. This should always be checked.
Note: Criteria are model specific. The criteria for a given model are applied to all machines of
the model. The default Model is the model of the currently selected machine.
Step 3
Select the histogram criteria to edit by clicking on the histogram name.
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Step 4
Click the Edit push-button. The Edit Exception Criteria dialog box is displayed.
Step 5
Set the Lower Boundary, Upper Boundary, and Target percentage for the selected histogram.
Lower/Upper Boundary: Click the down arrow push-button and select the desired value.
Values cannot be entered. They must be selected from the list box.
Target: Enter the desired Target Percentage by either typing or using the spinners.
Step 6
Click the OK push-button to save your changes and return to the Exception Criteria dialog
box. Click the Cancel push-button to discard changes and return to the Exception Criteria
dialog box.
Note: The criteria may also be modified on the criteria grid. Click the down arrow push-button
on the Lower and Upper Boundary cells, and select the desired value from the drop down list.
To set the Target, double click on the value, then type the new value in the cell or use the
spinners.
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Step 7
When done changing criteria, click the OK push-button to save any changes made on the
criteria grid. Click the Cancel push-button to discard changes made on the criteria grid.
To copy Histogram Exception Criteria from one model to another:
Step 1
Select Exception Criteria Setup from the Report menu. The Exception Criteria dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
Click the Copy push-button. The Copy Exception dialog is displayed.
Step 3
Select the Model to Copy From by clicking the down arrow push-button. Click on the desired
model.
Step 4
Select the Model to Copy To by clicking on the desired model. To highlight multiple models,
you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
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Note: For additional information on setting histogram criteria, see SELD7001 "VIMS
Application Guide."
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Truck Payload Reports

Truck Payload Reports
The Truck Payload Report allows you to define the data filters: report type, time range, output
destination, and cycle criteria for all Truck Payload reports.
There are four types of truck payload reports: Summary, Detail, Graphical, and Load
Distribution Histogram.
Summary: This report is a single page of productivity totals and averages. It is useful for
determining the overall productivity of a machine over any time range.
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Detail: This report creates a table of truck payload cycles. This is useful for analyzing the
detailed characteristics of a truck over a small time range.
Graphical: This report creates a graph over time of key cycle parameters. This is useful for
doing productivity trend studies. Graphs included are Cycle Time, Fuel Used, Load Time, Load
Weight, Stop Time. Baseline values are configured in Truck Payload Analysis Criteria.
Load Distribution Histogram: This reports is a vertical bar histogram of Load Weights. The
parameters of the histogram are configured in the Truck Payload Analysis Criteria.
To generate a Truck Payload Report:
Step 1
Select Production from the Report menu, then select Truck, then select Payload. The Truck
Payload Report dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Type of Report area, select either Summary, Detail, Graphical or Load Distribution
Histogram.
Step 3
If report type is Detail or Graphical, select a template.
Step 4
In the Time Range area, select a time range according to real Date/Time, Service Meter Hours
(SMH), or Shift.
Step 5
Note: Use the "Select Machines" push-button to select a different machine for which to
generate a report.
Step 6
In the Summary and Detail Criteria, enter the Load Weight, Load Time, or Stopped Time
ranges that you want to include in the report. Check the Apply box to filter records according
to this criterion.
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These criteria are useful for eliminating cycles that are misrepresentative of the actual
operation of the machine. Cycles that do not meet these criteria are excluded from all
calculations. The criteria may only be used on Summary and Detail reports.
Step 7
Truck Payload Summary Report

Following is a description of the various sections of the Truck Payload Summary report. Values
on truck payload reports are calculated from only those cycles that start in the specified time
range (or shift), and meet the specified Summary and Detail Criteria.
Time Distribution
Operational Time Distribution
Each time is displayed in numbers of hours: minutes: seconds, as well as the percentage of the
total time in the period. For the operations times, the percentage is the percentage of the
operational hours, not the total hours in the period.
Operational Hours: sum of cycle times for all cycles that meet the report criteria.
Non-Operational Hours: time in the selected period without any cycle activity. If shift based,
this includes only time in the selected shifts. Non-Operations Hours = Period Time
Operational Hours.
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Total Hours in the Period: total time in the selected time range. If shift based, this includes
only time in the selected shifts. If the last selected shift on the last selected day overflows to the
next day, that complete shift is counted, though a part of it lies outside the selected date range.
Note: The Period is calculated from the Time Range selection. Because the report includes all
cycles that start in the selected time range, some portion of the last cycle time may not be
counted in the Period but is counted in the Operational Hours. This may result in Operational
Hours greater than the Period Hours, and a negative value for Non-Operational Hours.
Loading Time: sum of load times for all cycles that meet the report criteria.
Hauling Time: sum of empty travel time and loaded travel time for all cycles that meet the
report criteria.
Waiting Time: sum of empty stop time and loaded stop time for all cycles that meet the report
criteria.
Criteria Analysis
The criteria are set in Truck Payload Analysis Criteria. For each criterion, the count is the
number of cycles found with a value greater than the criterion maximum value.
Production Data
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Each item is calculated based on the payload cycle data. Only cycles that meet the specified
report criteria are considered.
Fuel Usage
Each average value is based on the total fuel used for all cycles that meet the report criteria,
divided by the divisors listed below:
Per Hour = Fuel / Operational Hour
Per Cycle = Fuel / Number of Cycles
Per Distance (mile or km) = Fuel / Travel Distance.
Note: Due to a bug in VIMS-PC 2.X, the Per Mile value does not match VIMSpc reports. The
VIMSpc calculation is correct.
Averages
Speed: each average speed is calculated from the respective totals as follows:
Cycle = Travel Distance / Cycle Time
Loaded = Loaded Travel Distance / (Loaded Stop Time + Loaded Travel Time)
Empty = Empty Travel Distance / (Empty Stop Time + Empty Travel Time)
Moving = Travel Distance / (Loaded Travel Time + Empty Travel Time)
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Note: In VIMS-PC 2.X, Loaded and Empty average speeds do not include stop time, so these
values differ from VIMSpc reports.
Cycle: averages related to cycle information, as follows:
Cycle Time = Operational Time / Number of Cycles
Cycles Per Hour = Number of Cycles / Operational Hours
Distance = Cycle Distance / Number of Cycles
Total Cycles = Number of Cycles (not an average).
Production: averages based on the total payload weight, as follows:
Per Hour = Weight / Operational Hours
Per Cycle = Weight / Number of Cycles
Per Distance (mile or km) = Weight / Travel Distance.
Payload Distribution
Count and percentage of payload weights under target, within target range, and over target
range. The target percentage is the desired percent of loads within target range. The range is
specified in Truck Payload Analysis Criteria.
Truck Payload Detail Reports

There are several different Truck Payload Detail templates. The Export All Data template
includes all information available in the database for each cycle.
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The report shows the GPS Latitude, Longitude and Altitude at loading and dumping sites along
with second gear reweigh status in each cycle.
Totals and Averages for each column are displayed at the bottom of the last page of the report.
Truck Payload Graphical Reports

There are several different Truck Payload Graphical templates. For each graph, the X-axis
represents time. One point is plotted for each day. Each point includes only those cycles that
start in the specified time range (or shift) for that day.
The Y-axis value is displayed above each point. Times are displayed in MM:SS format; other
units are labeled on the Y-axis. A solid line is drawn between the data points. The Y-axis is
calculated from the daily (or shift) totals, as follows:
Cycle Time: Cycle Time / Number of Cycles
Fuel Used: Fuel Used / Operational Hours
Load Time: Load Time / Number of Cycles
Load Weight: Load Weight / Operational Hours
Stop Time: (Empty Stop Time + Loaded Stop Time) / Number of Cycles
A dashed horizontal line is drawn at the graph average value as specified in the Truck Payload
Analysis Criteria.
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The Y-axis is auto-scaled to maximize the viewing space for the data.
Truck Payload Load Distribution Histogram Report

This report is a vertical bar histogram of payload weights for the selected time range.
The Y axis always represents the percentage of the total counts. It is automatically scaled
according to the largest bar.
The X-axis represents cycle load weight, in either U.S. or Metric tonnage. The cell range is
displayed below each bar, per settings in Truck Payload Analysis Criteria. A cell range of
158.00 167.00 includes all values greater than or equal to 158 and less than 167. The number
at the top of each bar is the percentage for that bar.
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Note: It is possible for a number such as 0.1 or 0.0 to be displayed with no bar beneath it. This
is because the bar is so small it cannot be seen, and in the case of 0.0, the percentage of total
counts rounds down to zero. If a number is displayed, there is at least 1 count in that cell.
Two dashed vertical lines indicate the lower and upper boundaries of the target range, per the
Target Range in Truck Payload Analysis Criteria.
Truck Payload Analysis Criteria
Truck Payload Analysis Criteria dialog box allows you to view and modify the criteria values.
These values affect various aspects of the truck payload reports.
165
The criteria consist of:
Maximum Values: Used in the Criteria Analysis section of the Truck Payload Summary report. Use
these values note exception cycles.
Graph Average Values: Used in the Truck Payload Graphical reports. These values provide a
benchmark to compare performance against normal values.
Target Range: Used in the Load Distribution Histogram report. Efficiency is the percentage of
loads desired within the target range minimum and maximum.
Histogram: Used to design the cells of the Load Distribution Histogram. Cell Width defines the
interval of cells starting at the minimum up to the maximum.
To view or modify Truck Payload Analysis Criteria:
Step 1
Select Production from the Report menu, then select Truck, then select Analysis Setup. The
Truck Payload Analysis Criteria dialog box is displayed. The values fields are disabled to
indicate that they may not be modified.
Step 2
Select the Model of the criteria you want to view or modify.
Step 3
To modify, click the Edit push-button. The value fields are enabled.
Step 4
Type in values as desired.
Step 5
Click the Save push-button to save your changes. The value fields are disabled. Once saved,
changes cannot be cancelled. Skip to Step X if finished.
Step 6
Click the Cancel push-button to discard your changes. A cancel changes confirmation dialog is
displayed.
Step 7
Click the Yes push-button to save your changes. Click the No push-button to discard your
changes. Click the Cancel push-button to return to editing the criteria.
Step 8
Click the Close push-button when finished. You are returned to the application window.
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Data Utilities
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Data Utilities
This section contains various methods needed to maintain the VIMSpc database, as well as move data to and from the
database. This information is extremely important.
Remember, the database is the central data warehouse for all downloads from all your machines. Losing this data
could be devastating to your operation, so take time to become familiar with these database management tools and
recommendations.
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Transfer Data To A Different Computer

Transfer Data to a Different Computer
There are two different methods of moving VIMS download data from one computer to another. The method you
choose depends upon the process you are using to download and analyze data, as well as whether or not the VIMS
data is already merged in a database.
The following sections describe the two methods, the reasons for the methods, and the advantages and disadvantages
of both methods.
Transfer Downloaded Files without Merging

Purpose
This method of data transfer is for users who want to download data with a certain laptop computer, but transfer that
data to a different computer to do data analysis.
The laptop (for downloading) may be slow or not have much available space on the hard drive, or perhaps the user
wants all data stored in a central repository on a desktop computer or network drive.
For whatever reason, this is the method to use to download data with one computer, and transfer that data to another
computer for analysis.
Advantages
Fastest way of transferring data - Do not waste time merging data into the database, just to have to transfer it back out
again.
Minimizes time spent on the machines.
Facilitates backup of raw download data, if desired.
Disadvantages
Requires manual management of data files.
Download data cannot be viewed until merged into the database
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Process
By default, the install program installs VIMSpc in a directory called C:\Program Files\VIMS\. In this discussion,
the install directory will be referred to as the VIMS directory. It is implied that all path specifications below are
nested in this installation directory.
Step 1 Using the laptop (source) computer, do all the steps required for downloading: connect cable, start program,
select Download Data dialog box, select Data Group, etc. (For help, see Download Data in this document.)
Step 2
On the Download Data dialog box, the Merge on Download check box must be unchecked. (You must not merge the
data.)
Step 3
Click the Download push-button. The progress bars indicate "Downloading", but do not indicate "Processing".
Step 4
Disconnect from the machine.
Note: The following steps can be done either on or off the machine.
Step 5
Using Microsoft Explorer or File Manager, select the VIMS\Download\Unmerged\ directory.
The unmerged download files are in this directory. They have the following filename format:
<SerialNumber><DateTime>.DataTypeExtension_
nxxnnnnnYYMMDDhhmmss.xx_
E.g.: 4ar00001980915111906.ec_
There are ten possible extensions:
cu_
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Cumulative data
dl_
Data Logger data
dl_cnf
Data Logger channel configuration
ec_
Event Chronological List data
er_
Snapshot data
er_cnf
Snapshot channel configuration
hs_
Histogram data
pa_
Truck Payload data
pc_
Loader Payload data
tr_
Trend data
Note: These files are NOT compatible with VIMS-PC 2.X and cannot be converted for use in VIMS-PC 2.X.
Step 6
Copy these files to another directory. Because these files are machine specific and time stamped, they will never be
overwritten by another download.
Step 7
Using any means available (floppy disk, Zip disk, network connection, email, etc.), move these files to the
VIMS\Download\Unmerged\ directory on the destination computer. (If still on the machine, copy the files to
another directory on this computer.)
Note: A single machine download will easily fit on one floppy disk.
Step 8
On the destination computer, select the Merge Download Files option. (For help, see Merging Download Data in this
document.)
Note: To merge the dl_ and er_ files, the dl_cnf and er_cnf files must also be in the VIMS\Download\Unmerged\
directory.
Step 9
Generate reports, as desired, to view the merged data.
Note: To view data while on the machine using the download laptop, copy the download files from the
VIMS\Download\Unmerged\ directory to another safe repository directory on the laptop. Then merge the download
files and generate reports.
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But I Merged the Data Accidentally

If you accidentally selected Merge on Download and merged the data into the database, or decided later that you want
to transfer the unmerged download files to another computer, you can still do this.
When Merge on Download is selected in the Download Data dialog box, VIMSpc downloads the data and
immediately merges this data into the database. But it also creates a file of the unmerged data.
This file can be found in the VIMS\Download\ directory. They have a format similar to the unmerged files in the
Unmerged directory, but do not have the DateTime stamp in the filename.
<SerialNumber>.DataTypeExtension_
nxxnnnnn.xx_
E.g.: 4ar00001.ec_
Note: These files (in the VIMS\Download\ directory) are overwritten every time you Merge on Download from the
same machine.
Note: When data is downloaded and merged into the database, the application puts a backup of the merged files into
VIMS\Download\Backup\ folder. Please make sure that the unwanted files are removed as the system will not take
care of deleting the files from the above mentioned folder.
Transfer Out Segments of your Database
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Purpose
Database Transfer allows you to share data from your local database with another VIMSpc
database. Selected data is copied to a transfer database file. Your local database is not affected.
To transfer data out of your local database:
Note: The term "local" refers to your currently open database The local database could be on
your hard drive, network, or even be an archive database.
Step 1
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Transfer from the sub-menu. The
Database Transfer dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Source list box, select Local Database. The Destination automatically becomes Transfer
Database.
Step 3
Select a File Path in which to create the transfer database file. You may either type in the edit
box or click on the disk drive icon to browse for a path. If you do not type a file name, the
default name is Transfer.mdb.
Step 4
Select the Data to transfer. You may select using a Date Range or the Last Download.
Date Range: This button allows you to select a specific date and time range of data. Select
both a From and To date and time.
Last Download: This button automatically selects the data range according to the last
download.
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The From and To date and time are disabled when the Last Download button is selected.
Step 5
Click the Advanced push-button to select the Data Types to transfer.
Click in the boxes of the Data Types to select them. The check indicates the data type that is
selected for transfer. Click the OK push-button to complete the selection. Click the Cancel
push-button to discard selections. After the OK or the Cancel button is chosen, the Advanced
dialog closes and you are returned to the Database Transfer dialog box.
The Database Archive Advanced dialog box is shown here...
Note: Clicking the All button enables all of the data types and the All button will change to a None button.
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Note: Clicking the None button unchecks all of the data types and the None button will change to an All button.
Note: Only one machine may be selected for transfer. To select a different machine, you may
click on the Select Machines button.
Step 6
Click the Transfer push-button to create the transfer file in the selected File Path. The Transfer
push-button changes to a Cancel push-button. Click on Cancel at any time to cancel the
process. A progress bar is displayed in the status bar. A message is displayed when the process
is complete.
Note: The transfer process can take several minutes to complete. The progress bar is updated
each time another data type is completed.
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Step 7
Click the Close push-button to close the Database Transfer dialog box.
Step 8
The resultant database file must then be transferred to the desired computer. You may use any
available method of transfer (network, email, zip disk, etc.).
Transfer In Segments of another Database

Purpose
Database Transfer allows you to bring data into your local database from a transfer database
file created from another VIMSpc database.
To transfer data into your local database:
Note: The term "local" refers to your currently open database The local database could be on
your hard drive, network, or even be an archive database.
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Step 1
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Transfer from the sub-menu. The
Database Transfer dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Source list box, select Transfer Database. The Destination automatically becomes Local
Database.
Note: The Data Range Selection is disabled when transferring data into your local database. All
data in the transfer file is transferred.
Step 3
Select the transfer database file to transfer into your local database. You may either type in the
edit box or click on the disk drive icon to browse for a path. If you do not type a file name, the
default name is Transfer.mdb.
Step 4
Click the Transfer push-button begin the process. The Transfer push-button changes to a
Cancel push-button. Click on Cancel at any time to cancel the process. A progress bar is
displayed in the status bar. A message is displayed when the process is complete.
Note: The transfer process can take several minutes to complete. The progress bar is updated
each time another data type is completed.
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Step 5
Click the Close push-button to close the Database Transfer dialog box.
Note: All information about the machine IS included in the transfer database file. The transfer
function will transfer any data within the range specified, but not more. To get accurate total
values for histogram and cumulative data, the "receiver" of a transfer file must already have the
histogram and cumulative data prior to the "To" time of the transfer, OR, the "sender" must
select to transfer the entire time range for histograms and cumulatives.
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Manage The Database

Purpose
1. The maximum size of MS Access database is 1 GB.
2. If the database reaches 800 MB size, the application will start giving warnings
to compact the datatabase.
3. Depending upon the configuration and performance of the desktop or laptop, it is

important to archive the Vims data if it exceeds 400 MB to help performance.
Here are the different options used to increase the performance and scalability of
Vims database:
1. Archive Database
2. Compact Database
3. Transfer database
Note: Before installing new version of VimsPC, do the following so that old
version can be restored if needed:
1. Back up VIMS database
2. Archive data that is not currently being used
This section describes various utility functions used to maintain the VIMS
(vims.mdb) database.
This section describes various utility functions used to maintain the VIMS (vims.mdb)
database.
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Update the Database

When VIMSpc is launched or a new VIMS database is selected, VIMSpc checks the database that it will work on to see
whether the version of the VIMS database is up to date or not. If not, a message box with #26053 is displayed.
If the Yes button is clicked, Database Update Utility will be launched to update the database.
If the No button is clicked, Database Update Utility will not be launched. To update the database later, select Database
Utilities from the File menu, and then select Update Database from the sub-menu...
Note: If the version of the VIMS database is not up to date, you can not merge, import or transfer data into this
database, and some other functionality may not work right.
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Select A Database
VIMSpc now can work on many different databases.
Step 1
Select "Select Database" from the File\Database\ Utilities menu.
The Select a VIMS Database dialog box is displayed...
Step 2
Select a VIMS database, and then click the Open button. The Select a VIMS Database dialog box is closed.
VIMSpc then checks the selected database:
Whether it is a valid VIMS database or not
Whether the version of the VIMS database is up to date or not
Whether the size of the VIMS database is less than 800MB or not
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If the answers to all of three questions are "yes", then the path of the selected VIMS database is shown on the
title bar of VIMSpc, and from now on VIMSpc will work on this selected VIMS database.
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Select a Default Database
The default VIMS database is X:\Program Files\vims\data\VIMS.mdb, where X is the drive where VIMS is installed.
Step 1
Select "Select Default Database" from the File menu.
If the default VIMS database is available, the behavior is the same as the one for selecting Select Database... from the
File menu, only the selected database here is the default VIMS database.
If the default VIMS database is not available, a message box is displayed.
After clicking the OK button on the message box, the behavior is the same as the one for selecting Select Database...
from the File menu.
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Backup the Database
Database Backup allows you to backup the vims.mdb database from within the VIMSpc
application.
To backup the database:
Step 1
(optional) Before backing up the database, it is recommended that you compact the database to
conserve disk drive space. See Compact the Database for help.
Step 2
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Backup/Restore from the sub-menu.
The Database Backup/Restore dialog box is displayed.
Step 3
In the Action box, select Backup.
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Step 4
Examine the Last Backup Date. This is the date when a backup was last performed.
Step 5
If you wish to backup to a path other than the default, select the new path. The default path is
set in Setup System Preferences.
Step 6
Click the OK push-button to backup. A confirmation message is displayed.
Step 7
To proceed, click the Yes push-button.
Note: This operation takes several seconds, depending on the size of the database.
Step 8
When the Operation completed successfully message is displayed, click the OK push-button.
You are returned to the Backup dialog box.
Step 9
Click the Cancel push-button to close the dialog box and return to the VIMSpc application
window.
Backup Recommendations
How frequently should you backup the database depends upon:
How often you import VIMS-PC 2.X data.
How often you download and merge data.
As a general practice, it is a good idea to backup the database every time you download and
merge data from your fleet of machines (once per fleet download, not each machine).
Note: The best path for a backup is on a different disk drive than the disk drive that holds the
main database. This protects the data in the event of a disk drive crash. If backing up to the
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same disk drive as the main database, please periodically copy the backup.mdb to a different
disk drive.
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Archive the Database

Database Archive allows you to move data from the vims.mdb database to a different database
(called an archive). The data in the archive database may be accessed, while reducing the size
of the vims.mdb database.
To move data to an archive database:
Step 1
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Archive from the sub-menu.
The Database Archive dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Action Performed area, select Move Data To Archive Database. This is the default.
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Step 3
Select the archive database. Type the path and name in the field, or click the Browse pushbutton to select the database file.
Step 4
In the Archive Records area, enter the date and time. Only records with dates prior to and
including this date and time are moved from the vims.mdb database to the archive database.
Step 5
Select the data types to archive by clicking the Advanced push-button. The Database Archive
Advanced dialog box is displayed. There is a checkbox for each VIMS data type. The default
is none checked. A data type is disabled if there is no data of that type for the selected
machine. Only records from checked data types are moved from the vims.mdb database to the
archive database.
The Database Archive Advanced dialog box is shown here...
Note: Clicking the All button enables all of the data types and the All button will change to a None button.
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Note: Clicking the None button unchecks all of the data types and the None button will change to an All button.
Step 7
Click the OK push-button to use your selections. Click the Cancel push-button to discard your
selections. After the OK or the Cancel button is chosen, the Advanced dialog box closes and
you return to the Database Archive dialog box.
Step 8
Click the Select Machines button to select the machine for which to archive data.
Step 9
Click the Archive push-button to begin the archive process. A confirmation message is
displayed.
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Step 10
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The progress bar indicates progress toward completion.
If you do not want to archive, click the No push-button.
Step 11
Click the OK push-button on the Operation completed successfully message to close the
message.
Step 12
Click the Close push-button to close the Database Archive dialog box and return to the
application window.
Archive Recommendations
When should you move data to an archive database? This depends upon:
the amount of free space on the disk drive that holds the vims.mdb database.
the time range over which you must view data.
whether or not you are noticing performance lags because of the size of the vims.mdb database.
When data is moved to an archive database, it cannot be viewed with data in the current
vims.mdb database. Therefore, archiving data draws a hard line between merged data and
separates the older data from the newer data. It is usually better to have large segments of time
(such as one year) in an archive, rather than many small segments so that data can be viewed
over large segments of time.
Data can, however, be moved to the archive database a year at a time, as that data matures in
comparison to today's date.
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Delete Segments of the Database
Database Delete Data allows you to permanently remove segments of the vims.mdb database.
This is done to clear out undesirable data and reduce the size of the database.
To permanently delete data from the database:
Step 1
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Archive from the sub-menu. The
Database Archive dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Action Performed area, select Delete Data. The Archive database name field is disabled.
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Step 3
In the Archive Records area, enter the date and time. Only records with dates prior to and
including this date and time are deleted from the vims.mdb database.
Step 4
Select the data types to delete by clicking the Advanced push-button. The Database Archive
Advanced dialog box is displayed. There is a checkbox for each VIMS data type. The default
is none checked. A data type is disabled if there is no data of that type for the selected
machine.
Step 5
Check the data types to archive. Only records from checked data types are moved from the
vims.mdb database to the archive database.
Step 6
Click the OK push-button to use your selections. Click the Cancel push-button to discard your
selections. The Advanced dialog box closes and you return to the Database Archive dialog
box.
Step 7
Click the Select Machines button to select the machine for which to delete data.
Step 8
Click the Archive push-button to begin the archive process. A confirmation message is
displayed.
Step 9
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The progress bar indicates progress toward completion.
If you do not want to delete, click the No push-button.
Step 10
Click the OK push-button on the Operation completed successfully message to close the
message.
Step 11
Click the Close push-button to close the Database Archive dialog box and return to the
application window.
Note: An alternate, and more complete, method of deleting data from the database is to delete
the entire machine from the database. See Setup Machines for more information.
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Compact the Database
It is occasionally necessary to compact the vims.mdb database. This is because the MS Access
database system creates and maintains unused space within the file when data is added or
removed from the database.
To compact the database:
Step 1
Start Microsoft Explorer. Select the Data folder in the VIMS install directory. Examine the
size of vims.mdb and the amount of free space existing on the disk drive that holds vims.mdb.
The free space must be equal to or greater than the vims.mdb. If not, remove some files from
the hard drive before attempting to compact the database.
Step 2
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Compact Database from the submenu. A confirmation message is displayed.
Step 3
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. "Compacting Database" is displayed in the status
bar. When complete, the message is cleared and you are returned to the application window. If
you do not want to compact now, click the No push-button.
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Sometimes, when you attempt to compact the database, the following message is displayed:
This is due to another part of the application opening the database. The following functions
may cause this message to display:
Importing .pcs file
Communications functions
Merge Download Files
To compact the database when you exit the application:
Step 1
Select System Preferences from the Setup menu. The System Preferences dialog box is
displayed. Note the following item.
Step 2
Select the Prompt for Compacting Database checkbox. If not checked, click on the box.
Step 3
Click on the OK push-button to save settings. Click on the Cancel push-button to discard
changes.
Step 4
When you exit the application, the Compact Database prompt is displayed. Proceed as desired.
Compact Database Recommendations

How frequently should you compact the database? This depends upon:
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The amount of VIMS-PC 2.X data being imported, especially duplicate data as often found in
historical files.
The amount of data being downloaded and merged.
Use of Database Archive Data.
Use of Database Delete Data.
The more you use these features, the more often you should compact. As a general practice:
Compact after data is removed from the database using Database Archive, Database Delete Data, or
Delete Machine,
Compact every time you download your fleet of machines (once per fleet download, not each
machine).
Note: To help determine your frequency of compaction, notice the size of the database before
and after compaction. If the size of the database is reduced by just a small percentage of the
free space on the hard drive, you can reduce your frequency of compaction.
You MUST compact the database before the database size is larger than the amount of free
space on your disk drive, or the program will not be able to perform compaction. Monitor the
size of your database using Microsoft Explorer. The database file is called vims.mdb and it is
located in the Data folder of your VIMSpc install directory.
If the database is already too large to compact, there is a workaround. Contact product support
for assistance.
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Open And Close An Archive Database

Open and Close an Archive Database
The Open/Close Archive Database function allows you to open an archive database to generate
reports from archived data, then close the archive to return to the vims.mdb database.
To open an archive database:
Step 1
Select Open Archive Database from the File menu. The Open Archive Database dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
Select the archive database file to open, then click the Open push-button. The archive database
is opened, and the name of the archive is displayed on the VIMSpc title bar.
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From this point until the archive is closed, all reports generated include only data from the
archive database.
Note: Communication functions are not available while the archive database is open.
To close an archive database:
Step 1
Select Close Archive Database from the File menu. The archive database is closed, and the
name of the last open archive is removed from the VIMSpc title bar.
From this point on, all reports generated include only data from the vims.mdb database.
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Restore A Backup Database

Purpose
The typical reason to restore a backup database is if the main database is damaged for one
reason or another. This sometimes occurs because of physical failure of the disk drive that
contains the vims.mdb database.
Note: Restoration of a database replaces the contents of the vims.mdb database with the backup
database. Any data in the vims.mdb database that is not in the backup database WILL BE
PERMANENTLY LOST.
Database Restore allows you to restore a good backup of the vims.mdb database from within
the VIMSpc application.
To restore a backup database:
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Step 1
Select Database Utilities from the File menu, then select Backup/Restore from the sub-menu.
The Database Backup/Restore dialog box is displayed.
Step 2
In the Action box, select Restore.
Step 3
Examine the Last Backup Date. This is the date when a backup was last performed.
Step 4
If you wish to backup to a path other than the default, select the new path. The default path is
set in Setup System Preferences.
Step 5
Click the OK push-button to restore. A confirmation message is displayed.
Step 6
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. If you do not want to restore the database, click the No
push-button.
Note: Restoration of a database replaces the contents of the vims.mdb database with the backup
database. Any data in the vims.mdb database that is not in the backup database WILL BE
PERMANENTLY LOST.
Note: This operation takes several seconds, depending on the size of the database.
Step 7
When the Operation completed successfully message is displayed, click the OK push-button.
You are returned to the Restore dialog box.
Step 8
Click the Cancel push-button to close the dialog box and return to the VIMSpc application
window.
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Configure The Onboard VIMS System
200
Configure the Onboard VIMS System

Purpose
This section describes various functions used configure the onboard VIMS system. Examples
include installation of source and configuration files, copying configuration files, viewing and
editing configuration files, setting the serial number and equipment number, setting the real
time clock and service hour meter.
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Install Source and Configuration Files
Installing Source and Configuration software is a common service procedure for VIMS
equipped machines.
Note: Before doing this procedure, please copy the configuration from the machine if you do
not have a copy of this configuration file.
Note: The Install Source on Machine operation is not available for VIMS systems with version
4.0 or greater hardware. Please use Caterpillar Electronic Technician to perform this operation.
If you attempt this operation, the following message is displayed.
To install source and configuration software on the machine:
Step 1
Select Install Source on Machine from the Configure menu. The Open dialog box is displayed.
Only source files (.src) are displayed. The default path is the path that you have specified in
the System Preferences.
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Step 2
Click on a source file name. The file name is highlighted. To select a file in a different drive or
directory, push the down arrow icon in the Look in box.
Step 3
Click the Open push-button. The Open dialog box closes and the Install Configuration Open
dialog box opens. Now, only configuration files (.cnf) are displayed. Click Cancel to NOT
install software and return to the application window.
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Step 4
Click on a configuration file name. The file name is highlighted.
Step 5
Click the Open push-button. The Open dialog box closes and a confirmation message is
displayed.
Click No to NOT install software and return to the application window.
Step 6
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The Installing Source dialog box opens.
While the Onboard is erasing its flash memory, VIMSpc waits before sending any bytes (or
additional bytes).
As the bytes are sent, a progress bar is displayed in the VIMSpc status bar. When the bar
reaches 100%, the install source process is complete. The bar is cleared in preparation for the
configuration file.
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The install configuration process is similar to the installing source process.
After both install processes have completed, VIMSpc automatically disconnects and
reconnects, to acquire information about the new configuration. If successful, an operation
complete message is displayed.
Step 7
Click the OK push-button. The message closes and you are returned to the application
window.
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Install Configuration File Only
In some cases, it may not be necessary to change both the source and the machine configuration
software. Such occasions may include, but are not limited to:
Adding a new sensor to a machine.
Modifying configuration information for the Loader Payload System.
Updating a machine to obtain new features or enhancements.
Initial upload to a machine that does not have a configuration.
Note: The Install Configuration on Machine operation is not available for VIMS systems with
version 4.0 or greater hardware. Please use Caterpillar Electronic Technician to perform this
operation. If you attempt this operation, the following message is displayed.
To install configuration software on the machine:
Step 1
Select Install Configuration on Machine from the Configure menu. The Open dialog box is
displayed. Only configuration files (.cnf) are displayed. The default path is the path that you
have specified in the System Preferences.
Step 2
Click on a configuration file name. The file name is highlighted.
Step 3
Click the Open push-button. The Open dialog box closes and a confirmation message is
displayed. Click Cancel to NOT install software and return to the application window.
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Step 4
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The Installing Configuration dialog box opens.
While the Onboard is erasing its configuration flash memory, VIMSpc waits before sending
additional bytes.
As the bytes are sent, a progress bar is displayed in the VIMSpc status bar.
When the bar reaches 100%, VIMSpc automatically disconnects and reconnects, to acquire
information about the new configuration. If successful, an operation complete message is
displayed.
Step 5
window.
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Install Loader configuration on ABL machine

To upload a loader configuration file onto an ABL on-board system, select Install Loader Configuration Data on
Machine under the Configure\Install Configuration\ menu.
A file Open dialog pops up when this menu item is selected...
Select the configuration file name to be uploaded and then click Open. Another dialog box with bytes send will be
displayed. When the configuration file is completely upload, a message of "Operation completed successfully" should
get displayed. Click Ok to continue.
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Get Configuration Data from Machine

Select the following menu item to download partial configuration files from the ABL on-board system.
Clicking on the above menu item results in another dialog box as follows...
This dialog allows choosing the desired data from the entire configuration file. Key Pad, Data Events, Parameters and
Loader Config can be selected. Click against each name to select or de-select the item. The items with a check beside
them will get downloaded.
OK (button)
Click this button to start the download process. A file Save As dialog pops up, key in the name of the file and click
save. The Ok button changes to Cancel. Progress bar against the checked items will start to move from 0% to 100% and
message "Operation completed successfully" gets displayed when all of checked boxes are done.
Close (button)
Closes the dialog box and the control get transferred to main screen.
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Cancel (button)
This button allows aborting the download process.
If the OK button is chosen, the following dialog box is seen..
After a file name is present in the dialog box and then the Save button is chosen; the download process is performed.
A dialog similar to the following is seen during the download process...
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Copy the Configuration File
It can be helpful to make a backup copy of a machines configuration under any of the following
conditions:
Prior to a source or machine configuration software install, which erases the current configuration.
To obtain a copy of the configuration for use with the View/Change Configuration feature.
To copy the machine configuration file:
Step 1
Select "Copy Configuration from Machine" from the Configure menu. The Save As dialog
box is displayed.
Step 2
Click in the File name box and type a name. The display box shows configuration files already
in this directory.
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Step 3
Click the Save push-button. The Save As dialog box closes and a confirmation message is
displayed. Click Cancel to NOT copy the configuration file and return to the application
window.
Step 4
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The Copying Configuration dialog box opens and
displays a count of bytes received from the VIMS system.
If you do not want to copy now, click the No push-button.
A operation complete message is displayed when the file has been copied.
Step 5
window.
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View and Change the Configuration File
View/Change Configuration allows you to view and print reports of the configuration file, as
well as make changes to the Loader Payload portion of the configuration file.
To view details of, or make changes to, the Configuration:
Step 1
Select View/Change Configuration from the Configure menu.
By default, the program attempts to open the configuration file that was last downloaded with
this computer.
Note: The View/Change Configuration detailed documentation is provided in a separate

section of this document.
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Set the Serial Number and Equipment Number
The serial number and equipment number of the machine must be assigned when doing initial
machine setup, or when the VIMS onboard system has lost battery power or been replaced.
To assign either the Serial Number or Equipment Number of the machine:
Step 1
Select Assign Serial/Equipment Number from the Configure menu. The Assign
Serial/Equipment Number dialog box is displayed. The cursor is positioned at the start of the
New Serial Number field.
Note: Older VIMS machines may have non-printable characters at the end of their Serial and
Equipment numbers. This may cause the values entered to appear acceptable when in fact they
can cause later problems. Generally, when prompted to re-enter the serial and equipment
numbers, simply delete the previous text and re/uh/enter the appropriate values.
Step 2
If changing the Serial Number, using the mouse, click at the beginning of the New Settings
Serial Number, select the entire text by dragging the mouse, then press the Delete key. The
entire field is cleared.
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If not changing the Serial Number, press the Tab key to position the cursor at the New
Equipment Number field.
Step 3
Type in the correct Serial Number, including any leading zeroes (0).
Step 4
If changing the Equipment Number, using the mouse, click at the beginning of the New
Settings Equipment Number, select the entire text by dragging the mouse, then press the
Delete key. The entire field is cleared.
If not changing the Equipment Number, proceed to Step 6.
Step 5
Type in the correct Equipment Number.
Step 6
Click the OK push-button. The new values are set in the VIMS onboard system. You return to
the application window.
Click the Cancel push-button to discard the changes and return to the application window.
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Set Date/Time/SMH
At various occasions during the life of the machine, the real time clock and service meter hour
must be set. Examples include:
Set clock to correct time zone on initial machine setup.
Set clock for daylight savings time changes.
VIMS onboard system loses battery power.
VIMS onboard system is replaced.
To reset either the Date and Time or the Service Meter Hours (SMH) of the machine:
Step 1
Select Reset Date/Time/SMH from the Configure menu. The Reset Date/Time/SMH dialog
box is displayed. The New Settings fields are disabled, and the clock is being updated every
second.
Step 2
If changing the Date or Time, click on the Reset Date/Time box. The Date and Time New
Settings fields are enabled.
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If not changing the Date or Time, leave the box unchecked and skip to Step 6.
Step 3
Enter the correct date by typing, or using the spinners, or click the down arrow icon to use the
calendar date selector. Enter the correct time by typing or using the spinners. For help with
date and time selection, see Time Range.
Step 4
If changing the SMH, click on the Reset SMH box. The SMH New Settings field is enabled.
If not changing the SMH, leave the box unchecked and skip to Step 6.
Step 5
Type in the correct SMH value.
Step 6
Click the Reset push-button to make the changes. A confirmation dialog box is displayed.
To discard your changes, uncheck the Reset checkbox. The New Settings fields are disabled
and the values return to the Current Settings values. Skip to Step 8.
Step 7
To proceed, click the Yes push-button. The changes are made.
If you do not want make the changes, click the No push-button.
Step 8
Click the Close button to close the dialog box and return to the application window.
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Calibrate Truck Payload
The truck payload system must be calibrated occasionally after other VIMS service work, such
as replacing the VIMS main module, replacing suspension cylinders or suspension cylinder
pressure sensors, etc. This function may be used instead of typing PAYCAL on the VIMS
onboard keypad.
To calibrate the truck payload system:
Step 1
Select Calibrate Truck Payload from the Configure menu. The Calibrate Truck Payload dialog
box is displayed.
Step 2
Carefully follow the exact instructions for truck payload calibration listed in SENR6059 which
is the VIMS Service Manual.
Step 3
When ready to calibrate, click the OK push-button.
If successful, an operation complete message is displayed.
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If not successful, an error message will inform you that the conditions listed in SENR6059
may not have been met.
Follow the calibration instructions, and try Step 3 again.
Step 4
Click the OK push-button. You return to the application window.
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Appendix A: Notes For VIMS-pc 2.x Users
220
Appendix A: Notes for VIMS-PC 2.X Users

If you are a user of VIMS-PC 2.X, you may import VIMS-PC 2.X data files into the VIMSpc database.
Before importing data, the machine must be defined in the VIMSpc database. The following sections step you
through the process of moving your VIMS-PC 2.X data files into the VIMSpc database.
Note: The process of downloading and merging data into the database automatically adds the machine definition in
the database.
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Setup Machines
The Setup Machine/Shift function allows you to define your machines in the database.
To add a new machine to the database:
Step 1
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer on Database. A pop-up menu is displayed. Click Machine from the Add
sub-menu. The Machine Information area is displayed in the Setup Machine/Shift dialog box.
Note: To add a machine to a particular site, click the right mouse button with the pointer on the
site.
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Step 3
Enter the machine Serial Number in the text box.
Note: When entering the Serial Number, be careful to enter the exact Serial Number as
programmed in the VIMS system, including leading zeros (e.g. 9YF00101). This serial
number is compared against the machine serial number stored in the VIMS system, and is
recorded in downloaded data files. Mismatched serial numbers may cause failures when data
is merged into the database.
Step 4
Enter the machine Equipment Number in the text box.
Step 5
Select the Model Code from the drop-down list. The family name is displayed.
Step 6
Click the "Save" push-button. The machine definition is saved in the database.
To edit a machine in the database:
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Step 1
Step 2
Click on a machine. In the Machine Information area, make the changes.
Note: The Serial Number cannot be changed once it is saved. If you saved the wrong serial
number, delete the machine and add a new one.
Step 3
Click the "Save" push-button. The changes are saved in the database.
To delete a Machine from the Database:
Step 1
Step 2
Click the right mouse button with the pointer on the machine you want to delete. Click delete from the pop-up menu.
A "Do you want to Delete?" message box is displayed.
Step 3
Click "Yes" to delete the machine. Click "No" to not delete the machine.
Step 4
If there is data in the database for this machine, a "This machine has the following data: x, x, x, x. Do you want to
proceed?" message box is displayed.
Step 5
Click "Yes" to delete the machine. Click "No" to not delete the machine.
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Import VIMS-PC 2.X Files
After machines are defined in the VIMSpc database, VIMS-PC 2.X files may be imported into the database. Both
individual downloaded files and merged historical files may be imported.
Note: Only converted files (changed from a binary format to BTrieve format) can be imported. The file must be
converted using the version of VIMS-PC 2.X that created the file.
To import VIMS-PC 2.X files:
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Step 1
Select Import from the File menu, then select VIMS-PC 2.X from the submenu. The Import VIMS-PC dialog box is
displayed.
Step 2
Click the "Select Machines..." push-button. The Select Machine dialog box is displayed. Select the machine to which
the VIMS-PC 2.X data will be assigned.
Note: Data must be imported one machine at a time. You may select one or all of the data files from the selected
machine at one time, but only files from that machine.
Step 3
Click the "Advanced..." push-button to list only certain file types. The Import VIMS-PC Advanced dialog box is
displayed.
In the Select File Type area, check the file types you wish to list. Click "OK" to accept the
selections. Click "Cancel" to not change the selections.
Step 4
Click the "Browse" icon. The Select File Path dialog box is displayed. Highlight the drive for your path. In the Select
Path box, double clicking on a folder set the path. Click "OK" to accept the new path.
Step 5
Click the "Find Now" push-button to start the search. As a file is found, it is listed in the Files text box.
Note: The "Import" push-button will change to the "Cancel" while the files are being searched. This allows you to
cancel the search at any time.
Step 6
Highlight a file/s in the Files text box. Click the "Import" push-button to begin the import process.
Note: To highlight multiple files, you can use the Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts.
226
No Reset Information in Cumulative or Histogram Files

VIMS-PC 2.X cumulative (.cum, .hcm) and histogram (.hst, .hhs) files do not contain reset information. Therefore,
Import VIMS-PC 2.X cannot account for resets done with VIMS-PC 2.X.
Import the last download of cumulative and histogram data for each machine, as all prior data without resets is
ignored in the total accumulation.
The only value in importing earlier VIMS-PC 2.X downloads is to see the value of those individual downloads.
227
Time Range Selection vs. Files Selection

In VIMS-PC 2.X, downloads create discrete files. For some file types, (Events and Truck Payload), files are merged
to produce a historical file that integrates discrete downloads. However, for many file types, data cannot be truly
merged.
VIMSpc integrates all downloads and imports into the database during the process called Merging. When data is
merged into the database, there are no file "edges". Data is one continuous flow of records, regardless of the
download or import from which it came.
This is a new concept to VIMS-PC 2.X users. To overcome this obstacle, each download date/time and SMH range
are recorded in the VIMSpc database. This list of downloads can be seen by clicking the Select by Downloads pushbutton on any report dialog box.
228
Appendix B: Error Messages
229
Appendix B: Error Messages

Purpose
The following table lists error messages generated by VIMSpc. Also listed is additional
information to explain the reason for the message, and the recommended action to take.
Note that this list cannot contain all the error messages you may encounter while using
VIMSpc. Some error messages are invoked by the operating system. Other messages are
generated by software libraries that VIMSpc uses. Examples of these errors are:
System Error: "Invalid or missing object." or "Microsoft ODBC "

The exact text of a system error will vary. Before clicking the OK push-button, carefully
record the error number and text displayed in the error message. Then contact product support.
Sometimes the program will allow you to continue. If so, please do so.
Run-Time Error: "Invalid procedure call or argument".

The exact text of a run-time error will vary. Before clicking the OK push-button, carefully
record the error number and text displayed in the error message. Then contact product support.
This type of error will always exit you from the program.
If you encounter an error message that is not listed here, please contact your local Caterpillar
support personnel for assistance. Refer to the Getting Help section in this document.
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
About Caterpillar Vital Information Management

System PC (VIMSpc)
The Vital Information Management System PC (VIMSpc) application is designed to communicate with machines to
get data recorded by the on-board computers. This data is then used to analyze current problems, track machine and
fleet history, and pinpoint potential machine problems. Payload data is used to track the machine's productivity over
the coarse of time.
Index
A
About Caterpillar Vital Information Manage System..............................................................................195
About VIMSpc Documentation .................................................................................................................4
Access and Use Histogram Standard Report ..........................................................................................113
Appendix A Notes for VIMS-PC 2.X Users.........................................................................................178
Appendix B Error Messages ................................................................................................................185
Archive Recommendations....................................................................................................................152
Audit Trail Reports ...............................................................................................................................107
B
Backup Recommendations ....................................................................................................................148
Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine.................................................................................................26
But I Merged the Data Accidentally.......................................................................................................136
C
Change the Loader Payload Configuration.............................................................................................176
Collect Data From Machines ...................................................................................................................82
Compacting your Database....................................................................................................................155
Configure the Onboard VIMS System ...................................................................................................162
Connect/Disconnect a Machine ...............................................................................................................83
Copy the Configuration Files.................................................................................................................170
Creating VIMSpc Installation Diskettes.....................................................................................................9
Cumulative Reports.................................................................................................................................91
Customizing the Graphs ..........................................................................................................................74
D
Data Reset Recommendations .................................................................................................................34
Data Utilities.........................................................................................................................................133
Delete Segments of the Database............................................................................................143, 144, 152
Dialog Boxes .................................................................................................................................... 19, 20
Download Data .......................................................................................................................................45
Download Many Machines......................................................................................................................82
Drop-Down Menus .................................................................................................................................13
241
E
Event Standard Report....................................................................................................................... 55, 56
Export Report Data ...............................................................................................................................110
G
Generate & Use Reports..........................................................................................................................86
Get Configuration Data From Machine..................................................................................................168
Getting Help .............................................................................................................................................6
GPS ................................................................................................................................................ 58, 128
H
Histogram Exception Criteria ........................................................................................................ 118, 121
How To ..................................................................................................................................................81
How To Setup Machines In The VIMSpc Database .................................................................................47
I
Import VIMS-PC 2.X Files....................................................................................................................182
Install Configuration File Only..............................................................................................................165
Install Loader Configuration On ABL Machine .....................................................................................167
Installing VIMSpc From Diskettes...........................................................................................................11
Installing VIMSpc from the Compact Disk ................................................................................................7
L
Loader Payload Reports ..........................................................................................................................95
M
Machine Definition on Data Merge..........................................................................................................80
Manage the Database ............................................................................................................................143
Merging Download Data .........................................................................................................................46
N
No Reset Information in Cumulative or Histogram Files ........................................................................184
O
Open and Close an Archive Database ....................................................................................................157
R
Recorded Data Preview Tools .................................................................................................................65
Report Page Layout.................................................................................................................................63
Report Preview Tool ...............................................................................................................................59
Report Printing........................................................................................................................................62
Restore a Backup Database ...................................................................................................................159
S
Select A Default Database.....................................................................................................................145
Selecting a Machine ................................................................................................................................53
Send Source and Configuration Files .....................................................................................................162
Setting Date/Time/SMH........................................................................................................................174
Setting the Serial Number and Equipment Number ................................................................................172
Setting up Parameter Groups ...................................................................................................................72
Setup Communication Port......................................................................................................................26
Setup Data Download..............................................................................................................................32
Setup Machine ......................................................................................................................................178
242
Setup Report Preferences.........................................................................................................................51

Setup Shift Definitions ............................................................................................................................48
Setup Sites ..............................................................................................................................................78
Setup System Preferences........................................................................................................................27
Shift Based Reports...............................................................................................................................109
Snapshot Graphical Report ......................................................................................................................65
Standard Report Controls ........................................................................................................................20
System Requirements................................................................................................................................6
T
The Program .............................................................................................................................................4
The VIMSpc Workplace..........................................................................................................................12
Time Range ...........................................................................................................................21, 22, 24, 25
Time Range Selection vs. Files Selection...............................................................................................184
To Activate Data Logger .........................................................................................................................85
Toolbar ...................................................................................................................................................17
Transfer Data to a Different Computer...................................................................................................133
Transfer Downloaded Files without Merging .........................................................................................133
Transfer In Segments of another Database .............................................................................................140
Transfer Segments of your Database......................................................................................................137
Trend Reports .........................................................................................................................................87
Truck Payload Analysis Criteria .................................................................................................... 131, 132
Truck Payload Reports .................................................................................................................. 122, 124
U
Using VIMSpc In The Office ..................................................................................................................45
V
View and Change the Configuration File ...............................................................................................172
View Data Logger....................................................................................................................... 70, 71, 72
View Machine Status ..............................................................................................................................35
View Real-Time Parameters....................................................................................................................36
View Truck Payload Detail ............................................................................................................... 40, 41
W
While Connected To The Machine ..........................................................................................................34
243

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VIMSpc Table of Contents

VIMSpc Table of Contents ........................................................................... 1

VIMSpc User Manual

Machine Definitions On Data Merge................................................... 109

Activate The Data Logger ............................................................ 117

Truck Payload Reports ................................................................ 157

Data Utilities ...................................................................................... 167

Manage The Database ................................................................ 179

Compact the Database ................................................................ 193

Restore A Backup Database........................................................ 198

Appendix B: Error Messages............................................................. 230

VIMSpc User Manual

About VIMSpc Documentation

This push-button allows you to continue to the next screen.

This push-button allows you to return to the previous screen.

This push-button is used to accept an operation.

This push-button closes the current dialog box.

This push-button allows you to exit the program.

Place the pointer on an icon or item.

These mouse functions are standard Microsoft Windows controls.

Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts:

Consult the On-Line Help information provided in VIMSpc.

Consult the VIMSpc User Manual.

2 Gb of available hard disk drive

12X speed CD-ROM

3.5" 1.44 Mb diskette drive

Super VGA color monitor or display

RS232 port with 16550AF UART

Built in pointing device or mouse

Microsoft Windows NT (or)

Installing VIMSpc From The Compact Disk (CD)

Installing VIMSpc from the Compact Disk (CD)

When it is finished, the Welcome dialog box is displayed.

Creating VIMSpc Installation Diskettes

To create VIMSpc installation diskettes:

Uncheck the "Run Setup on this computer" checkbox.

Remove the compact disk.

Installing VIMSpc from Diskettes

To install VIMSpc from diskettes:

Repeat Step 5 until the installation process successfully completes.

The VIMSpc Workplace

The VIMSpc Workplace

The following menu conventions are used in VIMSpc:

Closing a menu without choosing an item

Click the menu name (or)

Click anywhere outside the menu (or)

Click the Esc key.

Each button does the following function:

Real Time Parameters...

Active Data Logger...

View / Change Configuration

Resizing a dialog box

Note: Not all dialog boxes are resizable.

Report Dialog Basics

Report Dialog Basics

To select the Time Range:

Click on an option button:

Preview: Preview the report on the screen.

Printer: Send the report to the printer.

Select Machine... Push to open the Select Machine dialog box.

Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine

Before Taking VIMSpc To The Machine

Setup Communication Port

To setup the Wired Communication Port: