Consumption data acquisition and visualisation

A modular remote meter readout system

Version: 4.0.0.0
Dated: August 2008

Installation and operating instructions

1998-2008 Nordwestdeutsche Zhlerrevision

VADEV User Manual

NORDWESTDEUTSCHE ZHLERREVISION
ING. AUG. KNEMEYER GMBH & CO. KG
Heideweg 33
49196 Bad Laer
phone: +49 (0) 54 24 / 29 28 0
fax: +49 (0) 54 24 / 29 28 77
email: [email protected]
http://www.nzr.de
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Table of Contents
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Introduction
System requirements ....................................................................................................................... 8
Database support ............................................................................................................................. 9
Installation ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Operation ........................................................................................................................................ 16
5.1. Program start ....................................................................................................................... 16
5.2. Introduction to the VADEV structure ................................................................................. 16
5.3. Fundamentals of VADEV and EDIS/OBIS........................................................................ 17
5.4. VADEV basic screen ........................................................................................................ 18
5.5. Opening databases ............................................................................................................. 19
5.6. Explanation of the physical and organisational levels ......................................................... 22
5.7. Explanation of the right screen half ..................................................................................... 23
5.8. Setting up meters ................................................................................................................ 23
5.8.1.
Creating organisational levels.......................................................................................... 24
5.8.2.
Creating physical levels ................................................................................................... 27
5.8.3.
Creating meters at the correct level ................................................................................. 33
5.8.4.
Checking the information ................................................................................................. 41
5.9. Display of values ................................................................................................................. 41
5.10. Adding or changing values manually .................................................................................. 44
5.11. Saving raw data ................................................................................................................... 45
5.12. Display of load curve graphs ............................................................................................... 46
5.13. Searching for meters ........................................................................................................... 52
5.14. Displays of actions .............................................................................................................. 53
5.15. Display and printout of protocol information ........................................................................ 54
5.16. Reading meters ................................................................................................................... 54
5.16.1.
Extended meter reading ............................................................................................... 55
5.16.2.
Reading out all the values ............................................................................................ 57
5.16.3.
Setting up automatic readouts ..................................................................................... 57
5.17. Time-dependent level allocations ........................................................................................ 61
Export functions .............................................................................................................................. 63
6.1
Introduction to the export structure...................................................................................... 63
6.2
Setting up export profiles ..................................................................................................... 64
6.3
Setting up an Excel export profile........................................................................................ 65
6.3.1
General information for an Excel export .......................................................................... 65
6.3.2
Configuration of value tables ........................................................................................... 67
6.3.3
Creating an Excel file ....................................................................................................... 73
6.4
Setting up an ASCII export profile ....................................................................................... 74
6.4.1
Network usage manager (EAM) ...................................................................................... 77
6.4.2
EDIFACT/MSCONS export .............................................................................................. 79
6.4.3
OBIS/line-based export .................................................................................................... 84
6.5
Export targets ...................................................................................................................... 87
6.5.1
Local file ........................................................................................................................... 87
6.5.2
FTP data transfer ............................................................................................................. 88
6.5.3
email transfer ................................................................................................................... 90
6.6
Calling up an export profile .................................................................................................. 93
6.7
Automatic execution of export profiles ................................................................................ 93
Device information.......................................................................................................................... 97
7.1
Control modem .................................................................................................................... 98
7.2
Phone-number level .......................................................................................................... 100
7.3
Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD/GSM/ISDN plus ....................................................................... 101
7.4
Pulse meters for the Dr Neuhaus ZDUE MOD plus III ...................................................... 105
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7.5
Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD/Enercom 100/ABB MTM 100 ................................................... 108
7.6
Elster DM series ................................................................................................................ 108
7.6.1
Parameterising the Elster DM ........................................................................................ 110
7.6.2
Elster DM pulse meters ................................................................................................. 113
7.7
ISDN readout ..................................................................................................................... 116
7.7.1
Design ............................................................................................................................ 116
7.7.2
Installing the Insys Pocket ISDN Profi 2.0 ..................................................................... 117
7.7.3
Settings in VADEV ...................................................................................................... 117
7.8
Br UniMod 01 meter modem with module for M-Bus/RS-232/2 0mA ............................. 118
7.9
Wackenhut IMOD24 VE .................................................................................................... 119
7.10 Grlitz ENC 400(E) ............................................................................................................ 123
7.10.1 Grlitz ENC.400 (E) parameterisation ........................................................................... 126
7.10.2 Pulse meter on the Grlitz ENC.400 (E) ........................................................................ 127
7.11 LON connection ................................................................................................................. 130
7.12 Actaris Sparkline modem .................................................................................................. 132
7.13 General devices................................................................................................................. 135
7.14 Virtual Meters .................................................................................................................... 136
7.14.1 Virtual meters - synthetic load profile ............................................................................ 138
7.14.2 Virtual meters- load profile arithmetic ............................................................................ 139
7.14.3 Individual initialisation .................................................................................................... 144
8 Protocol information ..................................................................................................................... 146
8.1
Interpretation of IEC1107 meters ...................................................................................... 146
8.2
Interpretation of D-Bus data .............................................................................................. 149
8.3
Interpretation of M-Bus data .............................................................................................. 150
8.4
Interpretation of LONWORKS data ................................................................................ 152
8.5
Interpretation of NZR wireless data ................................................................................... 153
8.6
Interpretation of the DSfG data ......................................................................................... 154
8.6.1
Basic DSfG principles .................................................................................................... 154
8.6.2
DSfG output stage ......................................................................................................... 154
8.6.3
DSfG-Bus scan action ................................................................................................... 155
8.6.4
DSfG data query ............................................................................................................ 158
8.7
Raw data import ................................................................................................................ 160
8.8
Substitute value creation ................................................................................................... 161
9 Remedying faults .......................................................................................................................... 164
9.1
Modem readout via phone system ................................................................................. 164
9.2
Adjustment faults with modems......................................................................................... 164
9.3
Other communication problems ........................................................................................ 165
9.4
Interpretation errors ........................................................................................................... 168
10 User reference .............................................................................................................................. 169
10.1 Menu items ........................................................................................................................ 169
10.1.1 Menu: file ....................................................................................................................... 169
10.1.2 Menu: edit ...................................................................................................................... 171
10.1.3 Menu: Edit, new ........................................................................................................ 171
10.1.4 Menu: execute ............................................................................................................... 172
10.1.5 Menu: export .................................................................................................................. 173
10.1.6 Menu: view ..................................................................................................................... 173
10.1.7 Menu: user (only client/server version) .......................................................................... 176
10.1.8 Menu: help ..................................................................................................................... 176
11 Licensing options .......................................................................................................................... 178
12 Extensions .................................................................................................................................... 179
12.1 VV2 support ....................................................................................................................... 179
12.1.1 Budget level ................................................................................................................... 179
12.1.2 Meter point designation ................................................................................................. 183
12.1.3 Data aggregation action ................................................................................................. 183
12.1.4 Example ......................................................................................................................... 185
12.2 Data archiving.................................................................................................................... 186
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14

15

16

17

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12.3 Database conversion ......................................................................................................... 189

12.4 Mobile data acquisition device ("MDE in German) .......................................................... 193
12.4.1 ActiveSync installation ................................................................................................... 193

12.4.2 VADEV -CE installation ................................................................................................. 194

12.4.3 Setting up MDE in the physical level ............................................................................. 195
12.4.4 Synchronisation ............................................................................................................. 198

12.4.5 VADEV -CE functional description ................................................................................ 201

12.4.6 Create objects ................................................................................................................ 202
12.4.7 Time setting ................................................................................................................... 211
12.4.8 Data retrieval via a serial interface ................................................................................ 212
12.4.9 Calling data via the Bluetooth Infrared Adapter ............................................................. 213
12.4.10
Calling data via the wireless modem ......................................................................... 214
12.4.11
Values view ................................................................................................................ 215
12.5 M-BUS output stage .......................................................................................................... 217
12.5.1 M-Bus scan routine ........................................................................................................ 219
12.6 Import action ...................................................................................................................... 220
Future extensions ......................................................................................................................... 222
13.1 Support for other meters and protocols ............................................................................. 222
13.2 Support for other export formats ....................................................................................... 222
13.3 Other extensions ............................................................................................................... 222
VADEV device database ........................................................................................................... 223
14.1 Supported protocols .......................................................................................................... 223
14.2 Supported devices ............................................................................................................. 223
Basic configuration ....................................................................................................................... 227
15.1 Path data ........................................................................................................................... 227
15.2 DCOM (client/server version) ............................................................................................ 228
15.3 Firewall (client/server version)........................................................................................... 229
Client/Server ................................................................................................................................. 230
16.1 Installation ......................................................................................................................... 230
16.2 User login .......................................................................................................................... 235
16.3 VADEV administrator ...................................................................................................... 235
16.4 User Administration ........................................................................................................... 235
16.5 User groups ....................................................................................................................... 237
16.6 VADEV Service Manager .................................................................................................. 239
List of Illustrations ......................................................................................................................... 242

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1. Introduction
VADEV is a high-execution remote meter reading system which was developed by
Nordwestdeutsche Zhlerrevision (NZR) during 1998 and 1999, in order to reflect the varied
requirements in the area of consumption meters (electric power, gas, water, heating etc.) in the
development of a new system, right from the outset.
From the ground up, VADEV has been developed as a system encompassing all manufacturers and
is not linked to any meter type or protocols of a specific manufacturer. VADEVs component-oriented
development towards a physical level, which illustrates the information path from the computer to the
meter, and towards an organisational level, which reflects the corresponding commercial structure, is
indeed unique in this market segment.
Moreover, VADEV has been developed on a totally target-oriented basis and the possibility of adding
further modules, e.g., protocols or meter types, also equips it for future requirements.
Below is a summary of the main functions of the VADEV software:

Universal values database

All read data values, irrespective of the bus systems or meter types on which they are based, are
saved to a standard database. Each value is converted to the OBIS standard and is then available for
further processing.

Flexible bus systems

VADEV supports- D-Bus, M-Bus, LONWORKS , IEC 1107 und bi-directional 433 MHz wirelessconformity meters.

Flexible meter connections

Its modular architecture allows VADEV to support meters by various connections. For this, Dr.
Neuhaus modems, ABB modems, Enercom 100 modems, Br modems, Wackenhut modems or other
conversion factors are, for example, available. By developing other modules, other conversion factors
can also be supported, with the result that VADEV is almost arbitrarily configurable to the physical
circumstances of the meter connection.

Easy meter management

Meters, irrespective of type, are stored at an organisational and physical level and can be
administered from these angles. All types of meter are stored in a separate database so that the enduser does not have to set detailed configuration options but only global parameters, such as a bus
address.

Actions
On any organisational or physical level, thus even with any meter, VADEV allows any number of
actions to be defined. Actions are modules which VADEV can implement at prestipulated times and
intervals. Examples we can give are readout actions with which the selected meter range can be read
out according to specific criteria (e.g. desired OBIS characteristic values).

Export profiles
VADEV allows any number of export profiles to be produced, which fill a data export in each case.
An export profile can export to various formats, e.g., MS Excel or a ZVEI-compliant ASCII file and
MSCONS EDIFACT. Export profiles may be saved as an action at any time, to enable an automatic
export. The export data are available as files in predefined directories or are sent automatically as
ASCII-based emails.

Graphic and tabular display

On the one hand, the meter data can be displayed in clear, tabular form and, on the other hand, in a
graph.
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System requirements
The single-user version of VADEV can be run on Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Vista.
MS Access or MS SQL server are suitable as databases. VADEV can also operate with any
Windows-compatible modem, provided that the modem is enabled for various types of connection.

Detailed protocolling
Each execution of actions, such as readouts, is saved by VADEV to the database in its own protocol
table and can be viewed by the user at any time.

Variable time base

VADEV converts all the meter data to UTC format. This guarantees that no data are lost during any
time change from CET to CEST and that the user still has the greatest possible flexibility for displaying
values. In all of VADEV's value displays, the user can choose which time base they would like to
see, e.g., UTC/CET or CET/CEST.
The time bases explained:
- UTC:
- CET:
- MESZ:

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Universal Time also known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) (zero hour)
Central European Time (UTC + one hour)
Central European Summer Time (UTC + two hours)

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2. System requirements
The single-user version of VADEV requires the following minimum PC components in order to run:
Microsoft Windows 2000/XP or Windows Vista
The client/server version of VADEV requires the following minimum PC components in order to run:
Microsoft Windows XP or Windows 2003 Server
Pentium 1 GHz
512MB RAM
300MB available hard drive space (space depends on the number of meters to be set up in VADEV)
1024 x 768 screen resolution
Windows-compatible mouse
Windows-compatible modem (for remote meter reading at the control centre)
USB port for licence dongle

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3. Database support
Before a start can be made to actually installing VADEV, a decision should be made on the database
to be used.
VADEV can be installed for two database systems.
Single MS Access-compatible database
VADEV contains all the necessary database drivers, so that no additional licence costs have to be
paid for them.
MS SQL server 2005 database
There is a version of the licence-free Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition on the VADEV
installation CD. It is limited to a maximum of 4GB data volume. No additional licence costs have to be
paid for it.
If a larger SQL Server installation with more than 4GB data volume is planned, an MS SQL server
2005 licence must be obtained.
The MS Access-compatible database should be used for single-user versions and for smaller
quantities of data. 500 or 1000 single D-Bus or M-Bus meters can be easily processed with this variant
but it is not advised to install hundreds of load profile meters.
In addition to more powerful database implementation, the MS SQL server offers the possibility of
creating backups online, as well as executing automatic database optimisation, and should, therefore,
be used for systems which have to be online 24 hours a day. The SQL Server is also suitable for
network installations. The individual possibilities of an SQL Server-based installation are illustrated in
the following diagram:

SQL

Database
Server

Ethernet

VADEV PC

VADEV PC

VADEV PC

Fig. 3-1 VADEV SQL Server configuration possibilities

As can be seen from the diagram, the SQL Server can be configured for a small network installation.
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For instructions on configuring individual features of an SQL Server installation, e.g. for setting up
automatic backups and data replications with other sites, you should ask your local system provider.
Please bear in mind that VADEV can always use both database systems.

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4. Installation
The VADEV single-user version runs identically on Windows 2000/XP and Vista, and that is why only
the installation in Windows XP is described here.
If there is already a previous VADEV installation on your computer, there is, therefore, no need to
delete it. The existing version is simply updated.
The copy-protection dongle has to be installed on the computer only when the program starts. It does
not have to be connected for the actual installation.
To install VADEV on a computer, you must proceed as follows:
Please insert the CD-ROM in your CD-ROM drive. Internet Explorer opens automatically. Install
must now be selected in the VADEV single-user version.
After start-up, the following welcome screen appears:

Fig. 4-1 Welcome screen

Click Continue to continue installing VADEV.

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Fig. 4-2 Licence agreement

Read the general licensing conditions. Then choose the option, I agree with the licensing agreement
conditions, if you accept the conditions and would like to continue with the installation. The user and
company names must then be entered below:

Fig. 4-1 User and company names

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After confirmation of user and company name entry, the dialogue for specifying the target directory
appears:

Fig. 4-2 Target directory selection

The default should normally be accepted. Another path may, however, be selected.
Note: If another VADEV installation is already on the target computer, the path for the existing
installation must be specified. To avoid problems, it is recommended that you accept the
default installation.

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If the target directory has been chosen, the next step is to specify the user's desired software features:

Fig. 4-3 Selection of software features:

The individual features are explained here:

Vadev
Installation of the VADEV software with an MS Access database to store the read and evaluated
data. The condition for using this software is a valid licence dongle.
Dongle driver
Installs the dongle driver. VADEV requires this driver, to be able to access the licence dongle.
Open SQL Server database
Creates an SQL Server database on an already installed SQL Server and links it with VADEV. Install a
version of the SQL Server available to you, in order to be able to use this option.
If you do not open any SQL Server database, an MS Access database opens automatically.
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Installs Adobe Acrobat Reader for viewing/readout PDF documents. This is necessary for readout the
user manual in electronic form.

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After the selection of the features comes the installation request:

Fig. 4-6 Installation

The installation runs after the Install button has been pressed.
After the installation has been completed, the release notes for the current version can be displayed:

Fig. 4-7 Finish installation

After installation, VADEV is available for use. The hardware protection device (dongle) must be
connected to the computer's USB port.
VADEV can be conveniently started from the Start Menu, using Programs >NZR >VADEV.

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5. Operation
5.1. Program start
To start VADEV, please go to Start Menu > Programs > NZR and select the application VADEV.
During the start-up process, a start screen is shown which displays the loading process. The VADEV
database is updated during the loading process.
If there is no hardware protection device, the following message is displayed:

Fig. 5-1 Licence not found

Please ensure that there is a properly licensed hardware protection device (dongle) on your computer.
VADEV does not work without this hardware protection device.

5.2. Introduction to the VADEV structure

VADEV is designed as a modular remote meter reading system which wins support on account of its
easy, flexible configuration, logical structure and consistent user guidance. In order to represent the
various installation options in metering, e.g. use of conversion factors, modems, meters, buses and
protocols, an analogue structure has been chosen for the software, so that the installation of devices
in the software corresponds logically to the real installation.
For this, a hierarchical concept was chosen, which reflects the physical path of the signals from the
local computer right to the meter. This path can be graphically configured by VADEV. No external
files, scripts or other configuration information must be processed. All the information which has to be
configured to set up a meter or other devices can be processed in the standard VADEV interface.
During VADEV's development, much emphasis has been placed on user guidance, so that only the
really essential information is read out by the user. Much device-specific information, such as, for
example, query telegrams for ZVEI [Central Association for Electricity and Industry] meters or for MBus meters is stored in a device database, which is primarily serviced and updated by NZR. The end
user can thus conveniently select a device type and only configure simpler parameters such as a bus
address or a baud rate. They do not, however, have to concern themselves with many internal
parameters.
VADEV does not contain any kind of commercial analysis of the acquired data, such as invoicing or
classification of meter data. Integration with other systems, to achieve an overall management and
analysis system should be pointed out, such as one in the most simplified form, a calculation by MS
Excel, or in the more advanced form, with incorporation in the IS-U/CCS System of SAP R/3.

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5.3. Fundamentals of VADEV and EDIS/OBIS

From the ground up, VADEV has been developed as a system, in order to read out and control
meters from any manufacturer. Thus VADEV is not tied to the meters, protocols, physical interfaces
or modems of specific manufacturers but, by means of adapting and adding modules, offers the
possibility of supporting any kind of bus protocols, meters and modems, as well as conversion factors.
This autonomy regarding specific bus systems brings with it the problem of standardising the value
indicators of individual buses. In the early days of VADEV, the EDIS index system existed as a draft
(DIN 43863-3), which was later accepted into the OBIS (Object ID System) standard. In addition to the
information on financial highlights in the electric power area, the financial control systems of other
major media are available in this OBIS.
That is why the focus during development has been on combining all the values and information into a
standard financial control system. Since the EDIS standard was the most advanced for its day, and
could, in theory, accommodate all types of energy, it was chosen as the standard for VADEV. Since
there is now, in OBIS, an official standard, the financial control system has been cautiously expanded
and extended in accordance with this standard. Unfortunately there has still not been any agreement
among the manufacturers in the gas and water/heating area, with the result that the OBIS financial
control system is used only by manufacturers in the electric power area. Efforts towards
standardisation are, however, being made. (January 2006 version)
For the end-user, many advantages are now being created by this VADEV standardisation. The enduser no longer has to concern themselves with which value is read by which bus system, in order to be
able to compare, for example, an M bus electricity meter with a D bus electricity meter or ZVEI meter,
but all the values are uniformly labelled in the database and the display.
A unified standard can also be made a condition of the further export of meter values in clearing
systems and VADEV can be used as a central integration solution which comprehensively solves the
technical problems of remote meter reading.

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5.4. VADEV basic screen

VADEV provides the following user interface to configure the various configuration options and
readout mechanisms:

Fig. 5-2 Basic screen

The VADEV user interface is based on Windows Explorer, in order to markedly reduce the user
induction period. Navigating in the meter database is similar to navigating on the hard disk.
The VADEV basic screen is divided into two halves. On the left-hand side is the meter base,
displayed either in organisational or physical sequence. Other functions are possible on the right-hand
side, especially the display of values, diagrams, actions and protocol information, as well as the meter
search.
Since both halves of the screen provide related information, the halves can be synchronised. This
displays, for example, the values of the currently selected meter or of the level, or marks the meter
being searched on the left half of the screen. Since a synchronisation process can last for several
seconds, depending on the circumstances, synchronisation is normally switched off but can, however,
be switched on in the View menu on a one-off or permanent basis.

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5.5. Opening databases

VADEV can manage several databases. This can, for example, be used for managing clients or for
switching between MS-Access and SQL Server databases. To open a database, the File/Open menu
item must be selected, whereupon the following dialogue is displayed:

Fig. 5-2 Database type selection

Always open this database

With this option, you set the standard database. It is automatically loaded the next time the program
starts.
VADEV database file (MS Access 2000)
Here you can select which data source should be opened. When you select a VADEV database file,
the usual file selection dialogue appears.
VADEV archive database file
This selection opens an archive database file. An archive database file contains archived meter data.
You can display, show in diagram form, or export these meter data.

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MS SQL server data source

If an SQL Server data source is opened, a standard data link dialogue appears, for which the
database must be selected:

Fig. 5-3 Data linking provider

Here you must select, Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server. Then click Continue.
Note: It is also possible to use other database systems from VADEV - Oracle, for example.
Generally speaking, these have not yet been tested for their functionality with VADEV, and in that
respect it is impossible to make a statement as to whether VADEV also works perfectly in these
databases. In individual cases, please contact NZR to clarify possibilities of having VADEV operate
with other database systems.

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In the next window, information then appears for connecting the particular database:

Fig. 5-4 Data linking server

Server name
Using the pop-up menu, all the SQL servers which exist in the domain can be shown. In this way,
select an SQL Server which exists in the network and which manages the VADEV database.
Note: In the case of an SQL Server installation on the same computer, this field can be left blank.

Iconn
o Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista clients
For clients based on Windows NT, Windows NTs integrated security should be selected.

Database
All the databases managed by the SQL Server can be displayed via the pop-up menu. In this
case, the VADEV database must be selected. As standard, this is VadevDb. Finally, Test
Connection must be pressed in order to ensure that the connection data have been correctly
entered. This should be acknowledged by the following message.

Fig. 5-5 Test connection

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After confirmation with the OK button, VADEV opens the particular database on the SQL Server.

5.6. Explanation of the physical and organisational levels

In order to select a display of the meter installation which is as realistic as possible. a hierarchical
sequence of meters has been developed, in order to replicate a meter's real installation path in the
software, too. This supports the user in the installation process, especially if the physical path is rather
complex and contains several devices and conversion factors.

Fig. 5-6 Physical level

As can be seen, the path to the Load curve (LZKJ G-series) meter leads through a local control
modem Control modem_0001, the phone number level below it [+44 (01234) 56789] , a meter modem
Dr. Neuhaus and its power interface without control output. This path must be graphically configured
and also adjusted physically, using the appropriate wires. From this information, VADEV creates all
the necessary switching and parameterisation information, in order to communicate with the meter.
As a counterpart to the physical level, an organisational level has also been created, which enables
meters to be sequenced organisationally. In this process, the user is completely free to configure
suitable classification methods and levels for themselves. The meaning of the organisational level will
become clear with later readouts or exports, as organisation is necessary according to, for example,
street, customer or tariff, which has no connection at all with the physical requirements such as, for
example modem or 2-wire line.
As a result of the consistent separation of organisational and physical levels, a prominent execution
characteristic of the VADEV software also becomes clear, and that is the free configuration and
allocation of meters and customers. With VADEV it is not necessary to allocate a modem phone
number to every meter or to connect meters in accordance with the customer structures. Instead,
decisions can be made according to local perspectives in planning the meter network, i.e. if two
meters are in proximity to one another at local level, they can be connected to the same bus cable,
even if this affects various customers, residential streets or districts.

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Fig. 5-7 Organisational level

As can be seen from the example, the load profile meter (LZKJ G-Reihe) is physically connected to
the cable of the Dr. Neuhaus modem, but is allocated completely independently on an organisational
level.
The result of this concept is that every meter appears both on the physical level and on the
organisational level.
The couplers (residential blocks or modems), however, exist only in the particular hierarchy.
To make it easier to find meters on both levels, the last selected meter is automatically sought and
displayed when the levels are switched.

5.7. Explanation of the right screen half

Further information on the configured meters and information is displayed on the right half of the
screen, such as the values read in tables or graphs, or the configured actions and also the actions
currently being executed, as well as protocol reports of the completed actions.
The search function of meters should hereby be emphasised. As a result of sequencing on
organisational and physical levels, the organisation of meters is indeed simplified but it is distinctly
more complicated to find meters other than by organisational sequences, as, in theory, all the levels
must be searched manually - which is not practicable, especially in the case of a large stock of meters.
That is why a search function is provided for VADEV, which makes it possible to search for meters
under several search criteria, e.g. the EVU [electricity supply company] number or the owner's name.
The meters found can finally be displayed at the appropriate level, organisationally or physically, by
means of synchronisation. The search function is described in more detail in other chapters.

5.8. Setting up meters

Before a new meter is set up, the appropriate levels should firstly be created, so that the meter may be
easily sequenced.

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5.8.1. Creating organisational levels

In order to create an organisational level, the higher organisational level on which a new one is to be
created, must be selected. In the case of an empty database, this is simply the "My Computer" level.

Fig. 5-8 Opening house/block

At this level a house or block can be created with the right mouse button either under the New item,
from the button bar (

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Then the characteristics of the new level are shown as follows:

Fig. 5-9 Opening house/block > General

General
Allows a name to be entered for the level. This name is then displayed accordingly on the left side of
the screen, and should be used by the user for ID (similar to a directory name).

Fig. 5-10 Opening house/block > Images/icons

Images/icons
Here an icon (tiny image), which provides the user with fast ID of the level, can be allocated to the
level.

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Fig. 5-11 Opening house/block > Installation

Installation
As an option, information on the subsequent installation site and the owner of meters can be entered
here. This information is copied to the lower levels in order to achieve a situation, while data is being
created, in which the information does not have be entered afresh for every meter from every level but
is accepted once when the previous level is opened.
In order to use this functionality as fully as possible, it is recommended to set up a creation process of
levels above town > street > house.
The acceptance of installation data from the particular levels should be displayed as follows:

Functionality of the handing over of information

in organisatoischen levels
Registerted
Informationen
Bad Laer

Heideweg

Disposable
Informationen

City

City

Street

City
Street
City

House number

33

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Owner

Street
House number
City
Street
House number
Owner

Fig. 5-12 Transfer of information - organisational

Only the new information is entered at each level; all the other information is transferred from the
higher levels.
It should be remembered that this sequence is only a suggestion, in order to simplify further entries.
VADEV does not prescribe any particular structure at the organisational level; it can be set up as
desired.

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Fig. 5-13 Opening house/block > Actions

Here you can enter actions which should be executed at this level. An action always refers to a level
and all the sub levels contained in it, for example, meters. If, for example, a readout action is defined
at the level of a residential street, all the meters in the residential street are read.

5.8.2. Creating physical levels

Physical levels reflect, step-by-step, a meter's physical connecting path in VADEV. VADEV uses
these levels to develop a connection with a meter, whereby each physical level is discreetly provided
by a driver in VADEV and can provide special functions, such as a Dr. Neuhaus modem.
Setting up physical levels is, of course, not as flexible as setting up the organisational levels, as
VADEV already prevents impossible connections. A meter, for example, can thus not be connected
directly to the computer but only via a local COM port, an MDE device or via a modem. That is why it
can happen that VADEV does not allow a further level to be set up under a specific level e.g. you
cannot connect a Dr. Neuhaus meter modem directly to your computer, only via a control modem. In
this case, please check the currently selected level.
A physical connection to a Dr Neuhaus modem via a modem route is developed below. Refer to the
following chapters for other modems or another connection (such as D-Bus, M-Bus, LON or wireless).
In reality, a meter is connected via a Dr Neuhaus modem, via the following stations from your own
computer:
-> a local modem (control modem)
-> the Dr Neuhaus modem
-> the particular current loop of the Dr Neuhaus modem
-> the actual meter (20 mA meter, connected directly)
This physical connecting path can now be directly configured in the VADEV software.
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Firstly, the physical level for the display must be selected by clicking the correct button (
).
Then, in a similar way to creating an organisational level, the next higher level, in this case the My
computer level, must be selected. As a first step, the control modem, or preferably the modem route,
must now be configured. This occurs by making a selection with the right mouse button and the
New/Modem menu item, by pressing the (

) symbol or via the Edit/New/Modem menu.

Fig. 5-14 Opening modem

Now, as a first step, a level for a control modem must be configured:

Fig. 5-15 Modem -> General

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In the name field, any name you like must be allocated to a control modem. The choice of modem for
readout can be left to the system using Use all connected modems. Alternatively, with the Use only
the selected modems option, the choice can be limited to the selected modems.
In the second step, any extended modem settings must be introduced:

Fig. 5-16 Opening modem > Extended

If the control modem in use needs extended settings (see manual for the modem in use), they must be
entered under the Use special modem initialization option.
With the Number of retry attempts option, the number must be set which shows how often the try
should be started to establish a connection with the meter modem, if it is not successful.
Here it is also possible to specify waiting times before and after establishing the connection.
At this control level, one (or more) phone number levels must now be set up.

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Fig. 5-17 Opening phone number

This modem route contains, in the form of information, the phone number for dialling, which must be
entered as connection in modem properties.

Fig. 5-18 Opening modem > General

For the Use dialling parameters item, the complete number, including country code, must now be
entered. The other configuration items are listed in Chapter 7 Device information
Special modem parameters for data transfer must possibly be set in expanded form for this item.

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Fig. 5-19 Opening modem > Extended

The modem's data rate is now set to the transparent readout of an IEC1107 meter. This is necessary
for transparent mode. In our example, however, the number of modem settings is sufficient because a
Dr Neuhaus modem is installed later.
After the distance for the control modem is configured, the next thing that has to be done is to connect
a meter modem (a Dr Neuhaus modem, in this case) to the control modem. For this purpose, the
modem just created must be selected by the right mouse button, as well as menu item New/Other
Alternatively, you can press the (

) symbol in the button bar.

Fig. 5-20 Setting up modem to modem connection

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A list appears of available devices which VADEV supports at this level. Select the Dr. Neuhaus
ZDUE MOD plus:

Fig. 5-21 Select connection

The modem ID and the control password for the Dr Neuhaus modem must be entered. For more
detailed information on the Dr Neuhaus modems, please read up on device information in Chapter 7
Device information.

Fig. 5-22 Dr. Neuhaus meter modem configuration

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After the information has been confirmed, the Dr Neuhaus modem appears at the physical level and
meters can be directly connected to the individual current loop outputs of the Dr Neuhaus modem.

Fig. 5-23 Dr. Neuhaus meter modem configuration

5.8.3. Creating meters at the correct level

After both an organisational and a physical level have been prepared, suitable meters may now be
connected. In the example shown, a EMH LZKJ-G meter is now connected to the Dr Neuhaus modem,
without affecting its control output.
A meter can be created both on the organisational and on the physical level and VADEV will then
automatically request allocation to the other particular level.
The Dr Neuhaus modem's Normal current loop must be selected by the right mouse button and a
selection for a new meter is opened by New/meter. Alternatively, you can press the (
from the button bar.

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Fig. 5-24 Opening new meters

A list appears of manufacturers and meter types which the current version of VADEV supports. Care
must be taken to ensure that only the licensed meters are displayed.
Thus no M-BUS meters are displayed as a possible selection for a valid VADEV licence for IEC1107
meters.
If the desired meter should not be on the list, please contact NZR for further information on VADEV
licensing.

Fig. 5-25 Device type selection

After the meter has been selected, the individual data may now be entered.
General
All general information on the meter, for example, description, serial number, etc. may be entered
here. All the information shown, especially the EVU number, is only used by the end user for
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identifying the meter. Here the meter designations may be entered, according to your own desired ID
system. VADEV does not require any of the information mentioned in order to execute a readout.

Fig. 5-26 Modem configuration > General

Meter point designation

The meter point designation item is relevant only to the budget level option, which we do not intend to
discuss at this point. (see Chapter 12.1.1 Budget level and Chapter 12.1.2 Meter point designation)
Installation
In a similar way to the organisational levels, the desired information may be entered here. Since the
meter has not been directly created by the organisational level, the parameters have not yet been
entered in advance.

Fig. 5-27 Modem configuration > Installation

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Owner
In the same way, general information on the owner must be entered here. This information is not
required by VADEV and is provided only for identifying the meter for the end-user.

Fig. 5-28 Modem configuration > General

Comment
The comment field may be used freely by the end-user. VADEV permits a search for keywords in the
comments field, in order to find meters under any preferred criteria, if necessary.

Fig. 5-29 Meter configuration > Comment

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OBIS values
On this configuration sheet are shown all the OBIS values which the selected device supports. You
can now deselect the particular values which VADEV is generally not supposed to return, in order to
restrict the data volume. You can, of course, overwrite directly in the case of each individual readout,
during the readout action. In the same way, conversion factors for individual OBIS values may be
entered, so that a value-specific adaptation may take place directly during the readout.

Fig. 5-30 Meter configuration > OBIS values

Table selection
In the table selection, you may choose the tables which are intended for readout out for each readout.

Fig. 5-31 Meter configuration > Table selection

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The real readout profile is, therefore, stored here - the invoicing data (Table 1) and the load profile
(Overall Load Profile), in this case.
If another data set is read out temporarily, it can be implemented by the "Meter reading extended
button. See Chapter 5.16.
Using the Readout from.. option, the time stamp for the last readout can be reset. If necessary, the
meter with the selected data can be reopened from this point.
IEC 1107 protocol
Since the EMH meter selected is a ZVEI meter with the IEC1107 protocol, VADEV displays the
correct protocol information. The Bard rate can thus be configured, either as a fixed baud rate or as a
variable one, in accordance with IEC1107 MODE C or B. You will find more detailed information in
Chapter 9 Protocol Information.

Fig. 5-32 Meter configuration > IEC 1107 protocol

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Actions
In a similar way to the organisational and physical levels, actions, such as readouts or exports at
meter level, may be directly configured here. This is clarified in the following chapters. (see Chapter
5.16.3 Setting up automatic readouts)

Fig. 5-33 Meter configuration > Actions

Substitute value creation

The substitute value creation option is configurable for M-BUS, D-BUS and LONWORKS meters. For
more detailed information, see chapter 8.8 Substitute value creation.

Fig. 5-34 Meter configuration > Substitute value creation

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Level allocation
Finally, the meter still has to be added to the appropriate other level (the organisational one, in this
case). This is particularly important if you create meters from the organisational level so that the meter
can be allocated to a physical connection. If you should forget this, VADEV points it out by means of
an error message.
The best option is to create the meter directly in its physical location. At the organisational level, it can
then be moved anywhere you wish by drag and drop.
After being created, the meter exists both at the physical level and at the organisational level.

Fig. 5-35 Meter at physical level

Fig. 5-36 Meter at organisational level

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5.8.4. Checking the information

Since errors may sneak in during a meter setup process, especially during allocation to the physical
level or also during the input of a bus address, it is recommended to carry out a test readout after the
setup process. The read-out values are, in fact, displayed during this test readout but not saved to the
database.
In order to carry out a test readout, the particular meter must be directly selected and selected in the
Execute/test meter menu. Alternatively, you can press the (

) symbol on the button bar.

Fig. 5-37 Check meter

If all the data have been entered correctly, the above screen, for example, is displayed. Any error
messages are displayed in the Protocol. A list of the values read out is displayed underneath. An
explanation of the individual values is dealt with in the next chapter (Chapter 5.9 Display of values).

5.9. Display of values

As soon as a meter has been read and the values saved to the database, the measurements can be
conveniently displayed. You can look up information on Meter readings in Chapter 5.16 Reading
meters.
Since the value display is a function of the right screen half, both the screen halves must firstly be
synchronised. To do this, you must simply select a level, either organisationally or physically, and
select Display/Always Synchronise in the menu. Alternatively, you can press the (
button bar.

) symbol in the

) on the bottom right-hand half of the screen must be selected and

Then the value display (
the period to be displayed (e.g., Last Readout) must be selected. The desired values are then
displayed.
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Fig. 5-38 Display of values

Filtering values:
VADEV allows the following filtering of values in the normal value display:
Period
The period of values for display, e.g., All (no restriction) Last Readout, etc.
Types of value
Current Values, Reset Values or Load Profile Values
Time scale
The timescale for display, e.g., UTC, MEZ or MEZ/MESZ
OBIS selection
Permits the display of some OBIS measured values which should be displayed.
VADEV stores the following detailed information for each individual value read out:
EVU number
The EVU number of the particular meter is displayed here.
Description
The description of the meter as it is also displayed on the levels on the left-hand side of the screen.
OBIS value
The OBIS index of the particular value
Description
The meaning of the OBIS index, as officially specified.
Measured (memory)

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The time at which the value is measured by the meter. Here, for example, are specified the times of
resets, of memory values or of maximal values. This time is not connected with the actual readout
time.
Value
The particular value converted to the particular unit. This is the invoice-specific value after the
conversion to the OBIS standard and after adaptation of any conversion factors.
Unit
The unit which belongs to the particular OBIS index.
Read
The time at which the VADEV value was read out. In the case of current values, the measured and
the read time are usually the same.
Types of value
VADEV distinguishes between current values, values for automatic and manual resetting and you
load profile values. These types of values may also be specified later during the export, in order to
retain the desired invoicing values.
Status
The status of the values is displayed, that is whether or not the meter was affected by a power failure
in the particular period, or in the event of processing being done manually.
Standard
Here the value is displayed as the OBIS standard. This value is the device value after adaptation to
the OBIS standard but before invoicing, with any conversion factors.
Raw value
Here the meter's raw value is displayed, still before any conversion to the OBIS standard. With many
bus systems, other units or indices are used and the original numerical value is recorded here as a
raw value.
Raw data
Here the raw protocol data which have resulted in the value are saved. In the case of M-Bus or bus
meters, part of the protocol package is displayed accordingly, in binary form; with ZVEI meters the
particular row is displayed. This can be used, for example, to compare the settings.
For the value display, VADEV permits filtering according to time period (selectable in the particular
field), according to value types (in the appropriate field) and according to OBIS indices.

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5.10. Adding or changing values manually

If meter values are changed or added manually, a value table, such as Display of values in Chapter
5.9, must be displayed. With the value tables then displayed, individual values may be selected with
the mouse and changed by pressing the Change button. The following data of a value may be
changed:

Fig. 5-39 Manual input of values Change value

In the case of values that already exist, only the invoicing value can be changed. It is not possible to
change raw values. As soon as the value has been changed manually, the Manual Input value
appears in the Status column.
In order to add values, the particular meter must be selected at the organisational or physical level
because VADEV is otherwise unable to allocate the new value to a meter. After an individual meter
has been selected, the Add button may be pressed on the value table, whereupon the following
screen appears:

Fig. 5-40 Manual input of values: Add value

The OBIS index must now be selected and a time specified for the value. After the window has been
confirmed, the new value is accepted in the values database with the remark, of course, that the value
has been inserted or changed manually.
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5.11. Saving raw data

VADEV provides two variants for saving raw data. As can be seen above, the row for each value is
displayed in the data block. VADEV also provides the opportunity of saving the entire data block as a
unit. The latter is then displayed in the values display with the special 0-1:0.0.0 OBIS index:

Fig. 5-41 Value table: Raw data set

By pressing the Display raw data button, the complete raw data set is displayed:

Fig. 5-42 Raw data set display

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By means of functions in the file menu, the raw data set can be saved to a file. Changing the raw data
set in the VADEV database is possible only with considerable effort and with extensive knowledge of
databases and programming. This almost eliminates any effect on the data transferred from the meter.

5.12. Display of load curve graphs

VADEV permits a convenient display of load curve graphs, including a series of standard analyses.
The load curve display is incorporated directly in VADEV, so that the load curve data are simply read
from the VADEV database.
The load curve display is enabled by the graph
(

) being displayed on the right-hand side of the screen.

Fig. 5-43 Graph display structure

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Adding load curve data

In order to add load curve data to the graph, please select the particular meter on the left-hand side of
the screen and press the graph's Add button. The following selection is displayed:

Fig. 5-44 OBIS index selection

The OBIS index for display must first be selected under OBIS index, .e.g., 1-1:1.5 as load profile
value. A scalar multiplication factor, e.g., a conversion factor, may be specified. A name for the data
series may also be entered.
VADEV can also synchronise the load curve grab with the left-hand side of the screen so that the
meter's load profile is automatically displayed each time a meter is selected. For this purpose, select
Synchronise this data row with the current left-hand meter and ensure that the main synchronisation is
switched on by (

).

Under Display, the following settings can be edited:

Fig. 5-45 Colour/time delay selection

With Select colour you can select the colour of the graph.
The time delay option contains a horizontal shift of values along the time axis so that, for example,
data for various months can be placed directly one above the other and can thus be easily compared.
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If the selection is confirmed, the load curve graph is loaded and displayed:

Fig. 5-46 Colour/time delay selection

Working with the cursor

For accumulating individual days or weeks automatically, you can simply select the desired area with
the cursor. Information on the maximum and on the work accumulated in the meter data window is
displayed:

Fig. 5-47 Selection of specific time ranges

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Double-clicking on a day in the graph switches to the daily display. The period displayed can also be
changed by the Zoom+ and Zoom- buttons:

Fig. 5-48 Daily values display

Editing load curve data

In order to edit a load curve line, e.g. in order to change a conversion factor, simply select the roll in
the Meter data list, and press the Edit button. The settings are the same as for adding load curve
data, as described above.
Removing load curve data
In order to remove a load curve row, simply select the row in the Meter data list and press the Remove
button.
Adding load curves
VADEV permits two or more load curves to be added easily and directly. To do this, select the load
profile rows to be added in the Meter rows list. Note: Use STRG + mouse-click in order to select
several rows, as with Windows Explorer.
Then simply press the Add button.
Note: If you wish to subtract rows, simply insert a negative conversion factor in the particular
number row and continue with an addition. Remember that adding occurs online, so that any
change to a basic number row e.g., by changing a conversion factor, immediately affects the
added row displayed.

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Exporting load curves

VADEV permits a simple ASCII export to the screen or to a file. To do this, select the desired load
profile graph in the meter data window and select Others/ASCII graph export. The following window is
displayed:

Fig. 50 Time base

Here, simply select the time base with which you wish to write the exported data. The following export
takes place:
Main electricity meter
987654321
1-1:1.5
01.04.2000
01:00:00
(0.000)
(0.100)
(0.096)
(0.140)
(0.100)
(0.096)
(0.136)
(0.100)
(0.096)
(0.136)
(0.104)
(0.104)
In the headers, VADEV writes the meter name, the electricity supply company number, the
OBIS index and the date and time stamp for the first export value. Then the load curve values
are listed at 15-minute intervals. You can achieve a more complex and generally more
applicable form of data export by means of export profiles, which will be described at a later
stage in this manual.
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Graph functions
You can change parameters of the graph using the Properties button:

Fig. 5-49 Editing graph

Here, a manual scalation of the Y axis may be undertaken or automatic scalation accepted.

Time base
A time base for the graph may be selected here.

Start of day
Specifies the clock time which is considered the start time for a day. For specific energy types,
such as gas, other values may be inserted here, e.g., 6 am.

Print
The load curve graph may be printed out at any time. For this, the Print menu item in the File menu
must be selected.
It must be borne in mind that, with many black and white printers, unrecognizable ID of the individual
lines can result; in case of doubt it is sensible to choose another colour or to use a colour printer.

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5.13. Searching for meters

In addition to navigating through the various levels, VADEV also provides the opportunity to search
manually or dynamically for meters, according to specific criteria For this purpose, the search function
on the right-hand side of the screen may be enabled by pressing the (
following screen is displayed:

) button. The

Fig. 5-50 Meter search view

In the search criteria field, up to three different criteria may be specified, which must all apply to one
meter simultaneously, in order to appear in the search result. A search may be configured as follows,
for example:

Fig. 5-51 Search criteria setting

Each of the previously-entered fields for a meter can thus be searched according to specific criteria. A
search is started with the Start! button and the meters found are displayed in the Result field. In order
to enable a meter search via the Dynamic meter search, it must be selected from the search criteria.
So that the search achieves the most accurate result possible, selection must be chosen from the
criteria and it is automatically displayed from the first character in the Result field. By a synchronisation
process, it is then possible to display the meters found in the organisational or physical level. For this,
the particular meter found must be selected and chosen from the View/Synchronise menu, or the
(

) icon in the button bar must be pressed.

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5.14. Displays of actions

Actions are normally defined in the particular level. An automatic readout of a residential street, for
example, or an automatic export of specific customers can thus be configured. In order to clearly
display the actions defined by the VADEV system, an action display has been developed which can
be enabled in the right half of the screen by the (

) button.

Fig. 5-54 Actions

VADEV then displays a list of all the defined actions. Here, actions may be deleted and changed and
the particular level searched.

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5.15. Display and printout of protocol information

All the errors or success reports accumulated during the execution of an action (e.g. export or readout)
are saved by VADEV in an appropriate protocol.
This protocol can be enabled on the right half of the screen by pressing the (

) icon.

Fig. 5-52 Protocol information display

Either all messages or only error messages can be shown. The protocol continues to be written until a
manual deletion is executed by the user pressing the Delete protocol completely button.
A printout is possible by selecting any protocol entry and then pressing the printer symbol (

).

5.16. Reading meters

VADEV provides several possibilities for reading meters. If only control values are to be read without
being saved, there is a possibility of executing a test readout directly, as described in Chapter 5.8.4
Checking the information.
For regular reading including saving, VADEV provides the opportunity of reading all or specific
values manually. There is also the possibility of executing automatic readouts in the form of actions.

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page 55

Extended meter reading

A manual readout of specific values is started as follows:

The level containing the meters for reading must firstly be selected. This may be an organisational
level (e.g., district, residential street or house), a physical level (e.g., meter modem or current loop,
etc.) or a specific meter.

Fig. 5-53 Meter reading extended

If a level or a specific meter has been selected, the readout is executed by the Execute/Read out
specific meter values menu item or the readout is executed by the menu item or alternatively by
pressing the (

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A dialogue then appears for configuring the readout:

Fig. 5-54 Meter configuration

Here you can specify whether the existing time stamp in the database should be the basis of the new
readout or this dated: time stamp can be reset in the Data Tables option. If the until: time stamp is
not set, reading will continue until the current system time of the control computer.
There is the possibility of transferring the system time to the meter(s) to be read. For this, only one of
the options in Set date and time has to be selected.
Alternatively, a special setting file can be transferred to the meter(s).
Note: The contents and meaning of the setting files are meter-specific and are not handled further in
VADEV. Please refer to the meter manufacturer or their special configuration software in order to
obtain suitable setting files. These setting files are also independent of buses.
An alternative data selection of the tables for the setting in the meter properties can be chosen for this
readout below.

Fig. 5-58 Data tables

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Reading out all the values

Reading out all of a meter's values is done in a similar way to reading out specific values. After a level
has been selected, the readout is started by the Execute/Read meter menu item or by pressing the
(

) icon in the button bar.

The data tables stored in the meter properties are queried. During the readout, the following dialogue
appears, providing information on the readouts further progress:

Fig. 5-55 Dialogue readout

Error messages, such as the inaccessibility of remote nodes or errors in the control modem are listed
and written to the protocol.

5.16.3.

Setting up automatic readouts

In order to execute an automatic readout of meters at specific times and intervals, a suitable action
can be set up. For this purpose, the level must firstly be selected from which a meter is to be read out,
e.g. a district or a street. The Edit/Properties menu item or alternatively the (
bar must be selected.

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The Actions tab exists at every level and it can be used as follows:

Fig. 5-60 Actions

All the actions for this level can be viewed, set up and deleted here.
To set up a new readout action, the Add button must be pressed. A list appears of all the possible
actions which can be executed at this level.

Fig. 5-56 Action type selection

After the desired action has been selected, the dialogue must be confirmed by OK.

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Then the selected readout action must be configured:

Fig. 5-62 Action properties

No change has to be entered at the Target Computer item. Here it is merely confirmed that the action
is executed at the present . level.
Firstly, it can now be specified when the readout action is to be executed. Specify the first execution
date and time here, as well as the repeat interval.
These settings can also be executed as for Meter reading extended.

Fig. 5-57 Meter configuration by automatic actions

This can be used for setting the time in the device as part of the readout.
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There is the further possibility of opening the data tables differently from the setting saved in the
meter.

Fig. 5-58 Data tables by automatic actions

After the configuration has been confirmed, the readout action is set up and is executed automatically.
Please ensure that Action Processing is switched on. The VADEV screen flashes, as soon as Action
Processing is switched off.

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5.17. Time-dependent level allocations

VADEV permits time-dependent allocation to a level. This functionality may be used for managing
the switching of meters, for example.
In order to set a time-dependent level allocation, the meter must be edited and switched to the "Level
allocations" side.

Fig. 5-65 Level allocation

Shown here are the current allocations of the particular levels. In order to allocate a meter to an
intended physical level of store from a specific date, press Add.

Fig. 5-59 Validity period

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A beginning or end date may be selected for the allocation. An allocation can then occur in the
particular level.

Fig. 5-60 Physical allocation

As a result of confirmation, the new allocation is displayed:

Fig. 5-68 New level allocation

Note that the validity of the old Normal current loop allocation has been restricted. An object cannot
appear several times in the same level simultaneously.
It is important to note, in a reading after 01/05/2008 (in the above example) that VADEV no longer
attempts to read the meter at the given physical level. To this extent, these allocations may be set in
advance.
The same thing, of course, also applies to the budget level, where there will often be changes in ETSO
energy ID codes, if, for example a customer changes suppliers.
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6 Export functions
In addition to data acquisition, data export is a main component of VADEV software. A data export is
provided for many formats, such as Microsoft Excel, VDEW MSCONS or also a line-based ASCII
format. These exports may be individually configured by the user.

6.1 Introduction to the export structure

In order to create flexibility of export structures, VADEV has two basic components:

export profiles
export value tables

Here, value tables are always allocated to a profile. VADEV supports any number of export profiles
which, in turn, can contain any number of value tables. In the example of an Excel export profile, the
following structure is possible:
VADEV export structure for MS-Excel
VADEV Export profilesl

MS-Excel Workbook

Excel-process sheet 1

Vadev
Values table
Excel-process sheet 2

Vadev
Values table

Excel-process sheet 3

Vadev
Values table

Fig. 6-1 VADEV export structure

One single export profile can thus write several spreadsheets and several data sets to a single Excel
work folder, with an export profile containing several value tables.
This applies, however, not only to Excel but to all types of ASCII exports. The only difference with
ASCII exports is that all the tables for an export are exported to a file.

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6.2 Setting up export profiles

In order to edit export profiles, select the Edit export profiles menu item:

Fig. 6-2 Export profiles overview

In this window, export profiles are reopened or changed. When the export profile is opened, the export
format is also specified and a single export profile defined, i.e. an Excel or ASCII export. The
configuration for an Excel export is described below.

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6.3 Setting up an Excel export profile

6.3.1 General information for an Excel export
To set up an Excel export profile, menu item Edit export profile must be selected and the Add button
pressed.

Fig. 6-3 Excel export profile selection

A list of the possible export profiles appears. Microsoft Excel must be selected here. A new export
profile is displayed, which can be edited as follows:

Fig. 6-4 Edit export profile

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General
A name for an export profile must be entered here. Value tables for the export profile may be opened
here in the same way (see Chapter 6.3.2 Configuration of value tables).

Fig. 6-5 Target file selection

Excel options
All Excel-file-specific options may be executed in Excel Options.

Specify target
Here, the target for the export may be specified. Possible targets are as follows:
o
o
o

Single file
FTP data transfer
email

You will find further information on this in Chapter Export targets 6.5

Use template
A template for the export is specified here. This template is used for every data export of this type.
A copy of the template is created, to which the export data are saved. The copy is then submitted
to the specified target.

Execute this macro after the export

Here, a macro name can be specified, which can be automatically executed after the export. If an
Excel file has previously been configured, all the macros are listed in the Excel file.

Overwrite template after export.

VADEV always operates with a copy of the template. If the template has to be updated after
every export, the template is replaced by the copy, using this setting.

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6.3.2 Configuration of value tables

After an export profile has been generally set up, the value tables have to be configured. One or more
value tables may be allocated to each export profile. This occurs in the General tab.

Fig. 6-6 Excel general

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By pressing the Add button, a new value table is opened:

Fig. 6-7 Value table general

General

Name
The name of the value table is entered here.

Period
The period must be chosen, from which the data in the database are to be selected. Possible
periods are as follows:
o All the values
All the values in the selected OBIS values are exported.
o Yesterday
The values of the previous day are exported
o Last week
o Last month
o Last quarter
o Last year
o This year
o The last seven days
o Last readout
o Special period
When this option is chosen, the period must be entered in the fromto fields. (Selection
via calendar)

Time base
The time base for the export must be chosen here. The following time bases are possible:
o CET/CEST (Central European Summer Time)
o CET
(Central European Time)
o UTC
(Coordinated Universal Time = Greenwich Mean Time, GMT)
o Gas data from 6 am to 6 am
o Take reset values from the previous day into account
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Maximal
Here information can be given on the amount of the maximal values of an OBIS type to be
exported.
When 0 is specified here, all the values of an OBIS type are exported within the period.

Types of value
Through selection of the value types, the correct, usage-relevant data or only the meter data
without values are filtered.
o Current
The current usage values are added to the export profile
o Load profile
The existing load profile values are exported (OBIS 1.5 to 4.5)
o Automatic resets
Memory values (automatic reset values) are added to the export profile
o Manual resets
Memory values (manual reset values) are added to the export profile
o Master data only
o Only the meters master data are exported and not their values. This is a useful function
for an oversight of the management of incorporated meters.
o Also export empty meters
This function may be used with data from meters to be exported, even if there are no data
for the specified period, in the case of one or more meters. During the export, a data set
with all the meters is created, with the empty meters being without values in this data
set.
These empty meters are not exported without this option being specified and are
completely absent from the data set created in the export.

Fig. 6-8 OBIS selection

OBIS values
Here all OBIS indices which are to be exported in this value table may be selected. If no indices are
selected here, all the OBIS indices contained in the database are exported.
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You may select as many OBIS indices as you like.

Fig. 6-9 Meter specifications

Select meters during export

If you choose this option, the quantity of meters is selected during export. This occurs by executing the
export at a specific level in the VADEV tree structure.
Specify meter
In this option, a meter or a level can be firmly specified in the export profile. The export is then always
executed at the specified level.

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Fig. 6-10 Time axis

Time axis
One time stamp per readout value
Here, each individual value is exported in two columns; the first column specifies the value's
measurement time (time stamp) and the second column specifies the value itself.

One time stamp per readout row

For exporting many values or comparing meters, it is possible to write the columns synchronously
which means that the time stamp is written in the first column of the spreadsheet and the values of
the individual meters and OBIS indices are written in the subsequent columns. It can happen in
this case that some columns remain empty, if there are no values for the times.
With this setting, a summary can also be selected, so that, for example, all the values for a month,
a day, an hour etc. are summarised in one cell. Here, VADEV can add the values and use the
latest or the oldest value.

In the case of double values

If time values are combined, such as with an export of load profile data on a 15-minute basis, it
can happen that several values exist for the same period. Depending on the requirements of the
export, it may be sensible to add values or use the latest or oldest value. If, for example, usage
values are exported and a monthly summary executed, there should be no adding but the latest
value should be used instead. Adding is possible with load profiles, in order to add incomplete
measurement periods automatically.

Set time stamp to measurement period start

VADEV normally adds the real times for the values read out along the time axis, e.g., 17:34:40
for a load profile value measurement period which has started. If the time stamp is set to
measurement period start, all the time stamps in the axis are edited on the basis of the chosen
combination. In the case of a 15-minute basis, only 17:30:00, 17:45:00 etc. time stamps are still
found.

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Fig. 6-9 Excel-specific settings

Excel-specific

Spreadsheet
The Excel spreadsheet to which the value table is to be exported must be specified here. If an
Excel file is already configured in the export profile, all the spreadsheets contained in this file are
also displayed.
Cell
Specifies the cell from which the values are to be written.
Arrange meters horizontally
If this field is selected, VADEV writes the meters horizontally in columns and the periods
vertically in lines. If this field is not selected, VADEV writes the meters vertically in lines and the
periods horizontally in columns.
Observe the Excel-specified restriction to a maximum of 65535 lines and 256 columns. When
exporting many meters, it thus makes sense not to write the data horizontally. If you are exporting
the load curve data for a few meters, for example, it makes sense to write the data horizontally.
Write oldest values first
When this option is chosen, VADEV starts with the oldest value from the value row.
Formatted date values
With this option, values which are recognised as date values are displayed in the selected date
format in Excel.
Formatted numbers of floating points
The number of floating points is regulated here. This setting is controlled by entering the 0 and
can be set to a maximum of the third decimal place. Example: 0.000

In order to find the best export formula for an individual export, the export profiles supplied in
VADEV, for example, can be viewed and executed.

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Fig. 6-10 Excel header

Excel header
For each column to be exported, VADEV generates a header which contains various pieces of
information on the meter, the OBIS index and the unit. Here you can choose which extra information
for the particular meter should be transferred to the header of the Excel spreadsheet.
In each case, the OBIS index, the OBIS designation and the unit for the meter value are displayed in
the header.
As an option, the complete organisational path for the meter may be exported. Among other things,
this can be used at a later stage for carrying out an allocation of meters to customers by Excel macro.
Visible in the "D-Bus residential sheet.

6.3.3 Creating an Excel file

A new file can be opened with Microsoft Excel for the straightforward creation of an Excel file as a
direct export file or template. This empty, unedited work folder is totally adequate for an Excel export
of VADEV meter data.
Individually prepared work folders can also be incorporated in an Excel export in the same way.

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6.4 Setting up an ASCII export profile

The ASCII export is modularly built, so that all possible ASCII formats can be implemented very easily.
In particular, the ASCII export structure is structured as follows:

Fig. 6-11 ASCII export profile configuration possibilities

As can be seen from the diagram, an ASCII export profile can thus be configured in three places - on
the export profile, on the export format driver and on the export target. The individual configuration
possibilities are described below.
Note: To a major extent, setting up an ASCII export profile is similar to setting up an Excel profile. In
this respect, only the differences for setting up an ASCII profile are described here.
An ASCII export profile is set up via the menu item Edit export profiles and by pressing the
Addbutton.

Fig. 6-12 ASCII export profile selection

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The ASCII Export item must be selected here. The following dialogue is displayed:

Fig. 6-13 General ASCII export profile

Setting up value tables and the quick start allocation is identical to the Excel export and is not
described further here. Only the register for the ASCII target is relevant.

Fig. 6-14 ASCII target

ASCII target:
The ASCII format driver, which determines the export format to be created, and the exports ASCII
target are configured. A description of the individual formats can be found in the following chapters.
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ASCII format driver

Selection of the ASCII format for which the export is to be generated. A detailed description of
the individual formats can be found in the following chapters.

ASCII target
Selection of export target. Possible targets are as follows:
o
o
o

Single file
FTP data transfer
email

A detailed description of the possibilities can also be found in the individual chapters.

The following value tables window is opened by Add in the General register:

Fig. 6-15 Configuration of the value table:

The configuration of the value tables occurs in an identical way to that of the value tables in Excel
export profiles and is not described further here. (see Chapter 6.3.2 Configuration of value tables)

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6.4.1 Network usage manager (EAM)

Fig. 6-16 ASCII format driver Network usage manager (EAM)

With this driver, VADEV can generate the format required by the network usage manager (NNM). It
should be remembered that this format is a load curve format and because of that the value table
configured for it should export only load profile values.

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The following example of a configuration is suggested for value tables in the NNM export:

Fig. 6-17 Suggestion for NNM value table general

Fig. 6-18 NNM value table time axis suggestion

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6.4.2 EDIFACT/MSCONS export

By means of this export driver, it is possible for VADEV to export data in the EDIFACT/MSCONS
format. There are four MSCONS drivers in Vadev. They are for Versions 1.6b and 2.0 d on the one
hand and for Versions 2.1 and 2.1g on the other (as of August 2008). As is generally the case with all
exports, there is a possibility of defining several tables for an export profile. This example should
demonstrate the point:

Fig. 6-19 MSCONS export profile

In this profile, tables are opened for load profile, maximum and effective power. The selected OBIS
values are handled in the same way in every profile. On execution, the export opens a file into which
all the meter data selected in the tables flow in EDIFACT/MSCONS format.
The editing of the individual export tables may be done in any way you wish (in the same way as the
other exports). It is not possible to edit the driver separately for the individual tables. If a table with
another EDIFACT configuration setting is to be processed, a new export must be opened for this table.

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The EDIFACT format is edited in the ASCII Target dialogue:

Fig. 6-20 Selection: EDIFACT export (MSCONS 2.1)

By pressing the Edit function button of the EDIFACT Export driver, the following selection window
appears:

Fig. 6-21 EDIFACT/MSCONS driver configuration

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A sender and a recipient of the export file and of the message received must be entered here. The
codes used here are managed by the Electricity Industry Association (VDEW) and you can look them
up on http://codenummern.strom.de/.

Export file address

The VDEW codes for the sender and the recipient of the export file are entered here. Here, the
sender is always the network operator. The recipient is the network operator's supplier.

The addresses of the message are identical

If the VDEW codes are the same for the sender and the recipient of the export file, input can be
discontinued by checking this box. This is the case if the network operator creates the MSCONS
message themselves and sends it to their suppliers. If this option is not enabled, the differing
addresses must be entered. The following cases are conceivable here:
o

The export file has been created by a service provider on behalf of the network operator.
The message must be sent by the service provider directly to the network operator's supplier.
The entries must be executed as follows:
Export file addresses:
VDEW code sender = service provider's code
VDEW code recipient = supplier's code
Addresses for export message:
VDEW code sender = network operator's code
VDEW code recipient = supplier's code

The export file has been created by a service provider and should be sent to the supplier by
the network operator.
Export file addresses:
VDEW code sender = service provider's code
VDEW code recipient = network operator's code
Addresses for export message:
VDEW code sender = network operator's code
VDEW code recipient = supplier's code

Address for export message (postal addresses)

The VDEW codes for the sender and the recipient of the export message are entered here. If the
postal address is to be used for sending the export message, the box at Use postal address
must be checked and the details for Name, Number and Street/Post Box:, Postcode, town
and State must be entered.

EDI message number

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Fig. 6-24 Application reference

Application reference
The possible application references are to be explained here. The following references are
conceivable:
Form

Load curve, daily LC

o Creates a new time stamp for every day, followed by 96 hours of values.
Load curve, any TL (technical supply conditions) period
o Exports all the values of a load profile followed by a start-end time stamp for each
value
Energy volume
o Exports the supplied energy volume for a selected period with start and end time
stamp
Invoicing list, IL meter status
o Exports a meter status including time stamp and acquisition characteristics

Acquisition characteristics
Meter reader
o Calculation by the network operator
o Calculation by the supplier
o Calculation by the measurement point operator
o Calculation by the measurement service provider
Type of readout
o Automatic remote meter reading
o Customer self-reading
Readout reason
o Regular reading
o Interim reading (e.g. on change in tariff)
o Device change
o Contract change (change of supplier or moving in/out
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Type of meter status

o Meter status (for regular or interim reading)
o Initial meter status (for change of device/supplier and moving in)
o Final meter status (for change of device/supplier and moving out)

Load profile options

Complete load profile gaps with zero readings
When this option is chosen, the gaps in the load profile are transferred as zero readings.
There is no substitute accumulation of value.

Transferring time stamps without specifying time zone

When this option is chosen, time stamps are transferred without the time zone being
specified The time stamp is in the form of the above examples. If the option is disabled,
every time stamp allocated to a measurement is in the following form:
QTY+46:1.700
DTM+163:200507010000?+02:303
DTM+164:200507010015?+02:303

Measurement
In a short time stamp (time and MESZ)
Final time stamp (time and MESZ)

Fig. 6-22 MSCONS 2.1g application reference

Form

Load curve, any TL period (exports a meter's load profile)

o Preliminary hourly energy value (7-1:33.3.71)
o Final hourly energy value (7-1:33.3.71)
Invoicing list, IL meter status (exports a meter's status)
o Operating volume meter status (7-1:3.0.0)
o Standard volume at (7-1:3.2.0) meter status

Options
Send meter status
Send heat value
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Transferring time stamps without specifying time zones

Acquisition characteristics
Meter reader
o Calculation by the network operator
o Calculation by the supplier
o Calculation by the measurement point operator
o Calculation by the measurement service provider
Type of readout
o Automatic remote meter reading
o Customer self-reading
Readout reason
o Regular reading
o Interim reading (e.g. on change in tariff)
o Device change
o Contract change (change of supplier or moving in/out
Type of meter status
o Meter status (for regular or interim reading)
o Initial meter status (for change of device/supplier and moving in)
o Final meter status (for change of device/supplier and moving out)

Number of places before the decimal point

Number of decimal places

6.4.3 OBIS/line-based export

The line-based export allows itself to be fully configured and serves as a general export format for
connecting to systems which are not explicitly supported.

Fig. 6-23 OBIS index selection

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The following settings may be carried out for the line-based export:

Fig. 6-24 OBIS configuration/line-based format

Lying format
The format for an export line is configured here. VADEV replaces placeholders with the appropriate
values. The following placeholders are possible:
$Typ$
$KNZ$

The OBIS index for the export value

The obis index without specification of medium or channel

$Wert$
$Zeit$
$MC$

The value in itself - see below for format

The value's time - see below for format
The meter point designation in accordance with VV2

$EVU$

The current meter's electricity supply company number

$Status$

The status field for the value

$KoSt$

Cost centre

$SerNum$

Serial number

$Beschr$

Description

$Begl$

Certified until

$InstDat$

Installation date

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$Zhlertyp$

Meter type

$Strasse$

Installation street

$Plz$

Installation postcode

$Ort$
$Wohnung$

Installation town
Installation flat number

$TelZhler$

Installation phone

$Etage$

Installation floor

$Vorname$

Owner Surname

$Nachname$

Owner First name

$TelBesitzer$

Owner phone

$EAWilken$

Energy type for the export to Wilken ENER:GY

$RST$

Specification of reset for measurement

(Attention: Only for use with the export periods Last month and Last
readout)

\r

Carriage return

\n

Line feed

\t

Tab

Values format
This field specifies the values format. Here there should be a character string such as %.2f, which
means that the value should be given to two decimal places. A place may be given in front of the
point, for the minimal amount of places before the decimal point.
A comma can be provided as an alternative to the point in the values format. This results in an
export of the values with a comma instead of a point.
Examples:
%03.3f
%.2f
%,3f

Delivers values in the form of 012.000

Delivers values in the form of 12.00
Delivers values in the form of 12,000

Time stamp format

Specifies the format for the time stamp. The placeholders have the following meanings here:
yy

year, two places

yyyy

year, four places

MM

month, two places

dd

day, two places

hh

hour, two places in 12-hour format

HH

hour, two places in 24-hour format

mm

minutes, two places

ss

seconds, two places

Characters to be provided in between must be inside single

quotation marks.
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Example:
yy-MM-dd,HH:mm
yyyy-MM-dd,HH:mm:ss

gives 01-12-31,23:15
gives 2001-12-31,23:15:00

OBIS code for electricity supply company number

If there is a code entered here for the electricity supply company number, the latter is exported as
a separate line in front of every exported value. This guarantees that a measurement is allocated
to an electricity supply company number.

6.5 Export targets

6.5.1 Local file

Fig. 6-25 Filename configuration

With this export target, VADEV generates the export data in a local file in the chosen format. It The
file path may be specified here. Here, VADEV can complete the filename for the runtime according
to specific criteria. The particular possibilities are displayed in the window above.
The following dynamic variables may be supplemented in the filename:

Export level:
Meter point designation:
Date:
Time:
Random number:

name of the exported level,

meter's meter point designation
current date at time of export (system time)
current time at time of export (system time)
a random number generated by VADEV

In order to add a placeholder, the cursor must be moved to any point in the name of the target file and
the desired button for the variable must be pressed.
Make sure that the file extension is correct. With ASCII files, the filename must end in .txt and with
Excel files it must end in .xls.
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6.5.2 FTP data transfer

Fig. 6-26 FTP server configuration

This target causes VADEV, to initially write the data to a temporary file on the hard disk and to send
them after export directly to a server in the Internet or Intranet, via FTP. Here, the server name and
login information must be entered.

Server Name
The server name is entered here, e.g.,ftp.firma.de

Port
The connection is usually established via Port 21. If the server uses another port, the appropriate
setting can be made here.

Passive transfer
The type of transfer may be specified here. Most FTP servers support passive mode.

Background: When you establish a connection to an FTP site, the server itself normally forms an
additional data connection with your PC, in order to send data. Since, however, most PCs use a
firewall, this process fails. If, however, the server supports passive transfers, the PC (client)
establishes the additional connection itself.
Transfer data in binary-coded form
Here a selection is made as to whether the data are to be transferred in binary format or in ASCII
format.
Login name/Password
For anonymous access, anonymous, as login name, and a valid password should be entered.

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Fig. 6-27 FTP target file

Here, the file path is entered on the server to which VADEV transfers the target file. The filename
may be assigned dynamically (see Chapter Fehler! Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden werden.).

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6.5.3 email transfer

By means of email transfer, VADEV can send the exported meter information directly by e-mail to
one or more users. VADEV uses SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) for sending the data.
VADEV should thus be connected to the Internet directly or via a router or have access to an inhouse SMTP server.

Fig. 6-28 email configuration

email

Sender
Enter the email sender here.

Recipient
One or more email recipients may be specified here. Several email addresses may be separated
by comma (,) or semicolon (;).

Subject
Enter the subject of the email here. VADEV permits variables inside the subject line so that the
recipient may be informed in the subject line about time and type of data, for example.

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Fig. 6-32 Outbox server

Settings for outbox server (SMTP)

Server
Enter the IP address or the server name here.

Port
Enter the port number here.

Send timeout
Enter here the maximal time in seconds that VADEV waits for the email to be sent. With slow
Internet connections, an accordingly higher figure should be entered here.

Authentication

Method
o AUTH_NONE
Select this method, if no authentication is necessary.
o
o
o

AUTH_CRAM_MD5
AUTH_LOGIN
AUTH_PLAIN
Select an appropriate method for authentication. Most SMTP servers support the
AUTH_CRAM_MD5 or the AUTH_LOGIN method.

AUTH_NTLM
Choose this method if a Microsoft Exchange server is used as SMTP server and
authentication is necessary.

Username
Enter the username here.

Password
Enter the password here.

Note: As a rule, you receive information on authentication from the operator of the SMTP server.
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Fig. 6-29 email file attachment

The name of the target file which is added to the email as a file attachment is configured here. The
filename may be assigned dynamically (see Chapter 0).

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6.6 Calling up an export profile

A specified export profile can be executed automatically or manually. For manual execution, it is
simply a matter of selecting the physical or organisational level which contains all the meters for
export. Then the export Export/Meter values menu item is selected. A list of the available export
profiles appears.

Fig. 6-30 Available export profiles

The appropriate profile may then be selected. On selection, the export profile is executed.

6.7 Automatic execution of export profiles

Setting up an automatic execution is the same as setting up an automatic readout, as they are both
based on VADEV's general action architecture.
For this purpose, the physical or organisational level from which the meter values are to be exported is
firstly selected.
Choosing the Edit/Properties menu item or alternatively pressing the (
causes the Properties dialogue for the level/meter to appear.

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The Actions tab exists at every level and it can be used as follows:

Fig. 6-35 Add actions

All the actions for this level can be viewed, set up and deleted here.
To set up a new export action, the Add button must be pressed. A list appears of all actions possible
at this level.

Fig. 6-31 Actions list

The Export action must be chosen here.

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Fig. 6-37 Export configuration

Repetitions
As with readout actions, the level, the first execution date and the repetitions are configured here.

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Fig. 6-32 Export file selection

Export profile
The export profile which is to be executed immediately is selected here.

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7 Device information
Based on VADEV's flexible architecture, several modules or drivers are provided for remote meter
reading in VADEV. The individual configuration options for the devices are noted below.
The following table, which clarifies the possible combinations of modems and meters, is intended as a
planning aid. It should be noted that the restrictions mentioned are manufacturer-specific and do not
depend on VADEV.
Modem

Pulse meter

Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE

MOD plus III
Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE
MOD

1
-

ABB modem

D-Bus meter (via

RS-232 output
stage)
-

20mA/IEC1107
meter

Br/Dietrich UNIMOD
analogue/GSM modem

#, *, with MBUS module

!, * , with RS232C module

Enercom 100,
other 20mA transparent
modems
NZR D-Bus house
substation
NZR D-Bus FAZ main
station
Wackenhut IMOD 24

!, only with fixed

300 baud rate, no
MODE C
!, only with fixed
300 and1200 baud
rate, no MODE C
!, *, with 20mA
interface module,
only with fixed baud
rate,
300,1200,2400,480
0, no MODE C
!, only with fixed
300 baud rate, no
MODE C
-

Actaris Sparkline modem

(analogue/GSM)

!, only with fixed

baud rate, no
MODE C
!, *

Elster DM100/DM600

!. *

Elster DM130/DM430

!,*

Enercom 400/400(G)

!. * FNP protocol

NZR UnimodC-A/-I/-G/-T

!, with MBUS module

!, with RS232
module

!, with CL0
module

NZR

M-Bus meter

#, *

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Key:
#:
!:
-:
*:

page 98

Fully functional, control modem may be operated with the settings 8 databits,NO PARITY,1
stop bit.
Conditionally functional - control modem and meter must be adapted.
Not functional
For automatic parameterisation, VADEV has its own driver for the modem.

Notes:
In the case of the individual protocols, both physical interfaces and data protocols are included.
Individual meter manufacturers also provide ZVEI meters with M-Bus interface, for example. These
must then be treated like a 20 mA meter, with corresponding encodings.

7.1 Control modem

VADEV supports all Windows-compatible control modems via the Windows TAPI interface. The only
limitation here turns out to be the meter modems, as many control modems are unable to work with all
the meter modems, such as the Enercom 100. With these meter modems, special modem initialisation
procedures must also be carried out, so that an error-free connection results.
For configuring the control modem (or, to be more accurate, the distance modem) VADEV provides
the following adjustment possibilities:

Fig. 7-1 Control modem selection

General
Displayed here (connected to the computer) are the modems or ISDN adapters, via which VADEV
can receive a connection to meter modems. if a special modem is to be used for communication, it
must be specifically selected; otherwise VADEV uses any available modem at all.

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Fig. 7-2 Extended modem settings

Extended
In the Extended field, individual parameters may be assigned for a control modem:

Modem configuration
Here, special initialisations may be manually entered for a control modem.

Repeat attempts
If the remote node is occupied or currently inaccessible, the number of repeat attempts may be
specified here.

Waiting time
Before and after the connection is established, waiting times may be specified for the start and the
end of the meter communication.

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7.2 Phone-number level

The phone number level must be set up underneath a modem level on the physical path.

Fig. 7-3 Creating phone-number level

Fig. 7-4 Phone number

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Connection

Phone number
VADEV can manage both a complete phone number, including area code and country code, and
a direct phone number. From the complete phone number, VADEV creates the number to be
dialled using the dial parameters settings (in the system controls/modems). In the case of direct
entry, enter only the particular number sequence.
It is possible to enter all the external phone numbers with the dialling parameters. Should it
happen that the dialling code or an official retrieval index is entered, this can be done in the
system controls without having to adapt a phone number in VADEV itself.
In the case of home systems it is possible to enter internal phone numbers directly but to enter the
external numbers via the dialling parameters

Fig. 7-4 Phone-number level extended

Connection parameters
For many modems, special settings are necessary. Thus, for the IEC1107 protocol, many meter
modems operate directly with seven data bits, straight-through parity and one stop bit, whereas
the standard settings are 8, N, 1. With such modems, the modem setting in this configuration of
the control modem must be overwritten by 7, E, 1. The particular modems are named in the
following chapters.

7.3 Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD/GSM/ISDN plus

The Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD plus is an intelligent meter modem which has many parameterisation
and settings options. VADEV contains its own driver, in order to execute all the necessary
parameterisation options on the Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD plus. All the information refers to the GSM
and ISDN variants of the modem.
Note: VADEV does not provide any support for automatic modem call-backs. In the same way,
parameterisation of phone-call time windows is not possible directly from VADEV.
For the best and straightforward use of the Dr. Neuhaus modem, the VADEV driver is developed in
such a way that meter-specific parameterisations are executed automatically. It is not necessary to
parameterise the meter call ups, switching outputs or transparent modes, as this is automatically done
by VADEV during the readout process. The configuration screen for a Dr Neuhaus modem is
designed in a correspondingly straightforward way:
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Fig. 7-5 Dr. Neuhaus modem parameterisation options

Properties

Name
The name is only used internally to display the modem and has no significance for communication
at a later stage.

Modem ID
Here the ID of the Dr Neuhaus modem must be entered (configured by ak). This ID is checked
while the connection is being established, but it has to match exactly.

Password (control centre 0)

Since VADEV always performs a new parameterisation of the Dr. Neuhaus modem during the
readout, VADEV has to be entered in Dr. Neuhaus as control centre 0. For that reason, enter
any password assigned here.

Check modem ID during login

During login, VADEV performs a standard check as to whether the selected modem has the
same ID This is another safety procedure, in case a wrong telephone number is entered, for
example. In individual cases, it may be advisable to switch off this check and that can be done
here.
Note: This check must be enabled for a parameterisation of the modem, as the error message
ak command could not be performed appears otherwise.

Channel number
VADEV normally uses only the 0 meter channel to communicate with meters, i.e. the particular
meter is reconfigured for each readout by the commands z0a and z0p. In individual cases this
may result in problems with external software which also claims Channel 0. As an alternative,
VADEV can function using another meter channel (0-9) on the Dr. Neuhaus modem.

Use only transparent mode

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This setting causes VADEV to read out meters in transparent mode via the Dr. Neuhaus modem.
Normally the modem's IEC1107 control commands are used. This setting may be used, for
example, if the control centre 0 password is not recognised and VADEV cannot, therefore,
configure the modem's IEC1107 mode.

Set the date and time

With this setting, VADEV reparameterises the modem's time and date for each readout.
VADEV also supports the Dr. Neuhaus modem's control output. In many cases, this output is
used for switching between current loops, in order to connect to non-addressable meters or to
develop a combined M-Bus/IEC1107 route. The configuration with VADEV is particularly
straightforward, as only the meter underneath the current loop level has to be set up.

Fig. 7-6 Current loop switch

With a configuration of this kind, VADEV automatically switches the output control by means of Dr
Neuhaus modem's da command, so that the necessary route can be enabled in each case.
VADEV also provides the opportunity to perform the necessary obligatory Dr Neuhaus
parameterisation by means of a special action. This means that the modems may be directly installed
without performing a configuration by any tools.
To perform a compulsory parameterisation on the Dr Neuhaus modem, you must proceed as follows:
Set up modem in VADEV with the desired ID and password

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Select Dr. Neuhaus modem, choose Execute/Others and the following window appears:

Fig. 7-7 Obligatory parameterisation action

Select the Dr Neuhaus parameterisation:

Fig. 7-8 Communication parameter selection

The properties for the imminent parameterisation of the Dr Neuhaus modem may be selected here.
First of all, the baud rate recognition should be checked. Since, for example, the Dr Neuhaus
analogue modems are factory-parameterised to 7 data bits, VADEV can possibly cause problems
when it uses GSM control modems. In case of doubt, it is advised to first perform an automatic
recognition procedure and, if it fails, to try parameterisation to eight or seven data bits.
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Note: This setting has no effect on the data which VADEV is parameterising. For straightforward
readouts, VADEV always parameterises a Dr Neuhaus modem to 8 data bits, no parity and one stop
bit.
The pulse meter may also be parameterised here (see below) and existing data deleted.
After the selection process, VADEV then chooses the Dr Neuhaus modem and performs the
necessary parameterisation, especially the setting of the modem ID, the password and the
communication parameters.
The modem's LED must light up green after successful parameterisation.
The Dr Neuhaus ZDUE MOD/GSM/ISDN plus is thus ready for use.

7.4 Pulse meters for the Dr Neuhaus ZDUE MOD plus III
VADEV supports the pulse meter available in Version PLUS III of Dr Neuhaus. VADEV can read
out and interpret its load profile and simulate a consumption statement. For this purpose, VADEV
creates a new physical level called "Pulse Input, when setting up a Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD PLUS
modem.

Fig. 7-9 Dr. Neuhaus pulse input

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As with the Wackenhut IMOD24 VE modem, the Pulse Input level accommodates all the necessary
settings for the pulse channel. They can be inspected by editing the levels.

Fig. 7-10 Pulse input settings

The following settings may be performed:

OBIS index
marks the OBIS index that load profile values should receive on the pulse input.

Measurement period length

Specifies in minutes the length of a measurement period

At measurement period start

Specifies whether the internal meter should be reset (load profile) or continue to be written
(consumption). For general applications, load profile is always recommended here.

Meter number
Here the pulse input's meter number is saved within the Dr Neuhaus modem. Here, the factory-set
parameter is usually 99.

Minimum pulse length

Specifies the minimal pulse length in milliseconds and serves to suppress the pulse input chatter.

Slope
Specifies the slope on which the modem is counting, positive or negative.

Ext. Measurement period sig.

If selected, the modem begins a new measurement period by means of an external signal, in
contrast to the dial setting. Here, the minimal pulse length for chatter suppression and the
particular slope may be chosen in turn.

As described above, the pulse input may be set via the Dr Neuhaus obligatory parameterisation.
Note: It is, of course, not necessary to parameterise the Dr Neuhaus modems meter with VADEV.
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The input can, of course, also be set by the Dr. Neuhaus ZAPP software. Then only the settings for
the measurement period length and the meter number should be adopted in VADEV; otherwise it
cannot perform a readout.
After the pulse input has been configured, a special meter has to be configured downstream from the
pulse input in VADEV:

Fig. 7-11 ZDUe pulse meter selection

In addition to the general meter data, this meter provides the following setting possibilities for load
profile reading:

Fig. 7-12 Pulse meter settings

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Pulse value
The number of pulses per kilowatt hour (or other measurement) is entered here. VADEV divides
the number of pulses by this figure.

Calculated consumption values

As an additional option, VADEV can simulate consumption data from the pulse meter's load
curve. In order to do this, the load curve data are simply added and reset values simulated if
necessary. The prerequisite for a correct calculation is, of course, a complete load profile.

OBIS index
specifies the OBIS index in which the consumption data are emitted.

Start status
Specifies the meter start status in the particular unit.

Simulate reset values at beginning of month

If this option is chosen, for each load curve value VADEV produces a total for the particular
month, at midnight on the first day of the month. This can be used for calculation purposes, to
determine the monthly consumption, for example.

Reset readout time

Normally VADEV reads only new, still unread load profile data from the meter. If it is necessary,
in exceptional cases, to re-read a period, the start date may be chosen and set here. Please take
care to ensure that the consumption values are not recalculated here.
If the consumption values have also to be recalculated in full, the Complete button should be
pressed. Then VADEV reads out the meter's entire load profile again and recreates the
consumption values based on the start status.

7.5 Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD/Enercom 100/ABB MTM 100

The older Dr. Neuhaus ZDUE MOD modem, and the Enercom 100 modem and also the ABB MTM
100 are transparent meter modems. These modems do not have any facilities at all for
reparameterisation and can accordingly only be used in a limited way.
Neither modem also supports baud rate switching, so that connected meters can operate only with a
fixed baud rate, mostly 300 baud.
The control modem should be set to 7,E,1 which means that it must be adapted here. You will find
more details on adapting the control modem in Chapter 7.1Control modem.

7.6 Elster DM series

The Elster DM is an intelligent meter modem which has three internal IEC1107-compliant load profile
meters. VADEV contains its own driver, in order to read these pulse meters, and to execute the
parameterisation of the necessary parameters on the Elster DM.
The following versions in the Elster DM series are supported by VADEV:

DM100: analogue meter modem (three pulse inputs + serial interface)

DM120: analogue modem (M-Bus interface)
DM130: analogue modem (serial interface)
DM430: GSM modem (serial interface)
DM600: GSM meter modem (three pulse inputs + serial interface)
DM620: GSM modem (M-Bus interface)
DM630: GSM meter modem (three pulse inputs + serial interface)

Note: Owing to low demand, the Elster DM300 ISDN modem has been deleted by Elster.
In order to incorporate an Elster DM in VADEV, a physical modem connection is required, to begin
with. Follow the steps outlined in Chapter 5.8.2 Creating physical levels, to create a connection of
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this type. How a control modem can now be set up downstream from this physical modem connection
is already set out in the same section. Here select the ELSTER DM serial control modem from the
following illustration:

Fig. 7-13 Elster DM selection

The next thing to appear is a dialogue which requests you to enter the general modem properties.

Fig. 7-14 Elster DM general settings

Designation
o Name
The name is only used internally to display the modem and has no significance for
communication at a later stage.

Passwords
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Login password
With some devices in the Elster DM series, it is possible to enable password protection.
You must select this field so that VADEV sends the specified password while a
connection to the modem is being established. VADEV is in a position to send any
specified password but it is only possible to parameterise a password with the Elster
parameterisation software associated with the modem.
The following is the standard password for all Elster DM modems: PW0

Parameterising password
Here it is possible to specify a parameterising password. Specifying a password is
mandatory for parameterising the Elster DM modem. All the parameterisation options for
the Elster DM series are described in the following chapter.

IEC 1107 Address

It is necessary to specify an IEC 1107 address, in order to select the meter for
parameterisation. This is usually the internal load profile meter with the address
99999999.

After all the parameters required by VADEV for integrating an Elster DM have been entered, the
modem's properties dialogue must be closed with OK. The Elster DM is now added to the physical
hierarchical tree in VADEV. An example can be seen in the following illustration:

Fig. 7-15 Elster DM

Note: For logical reasons, all the modem types in the Elster DM series are displayed as in the above
diagram, with three interfaces set up for the pulse inputs. If you have an Elster DM Modem, which
does not have three interfaces with pulse inputs, they can be removed manually at any time, if
necessary.

7.6.1 Parameterising the Elster DM

As already shown, VADEV provides an opportunity to parameterise the Elster DM by a special
action. VADEV is in a position to parameterise all the basic options which are required for
commissioning an Elster DM modem in conjunction with a meter. The modems may thus be installed
directly, with no need to perform a configuration by means of external parameterising tools. The
following dialogue shows all the setting possibilities which VADEV can undertake:
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Fig. 7-16 Elster DM modem type selection

Modem type
Each modem type in the Elster DM series has really special properties and, connected with that,
its own commands for parameterisation. Depending on the modem type used, the appropriate
modem must be selected here, whereby VADEV enables or disables, completely automatically,
all the possible parameterising facilities of the particular modem.

Parameterise time and date

Every Elster modem, except for the Elster DM 430, has an internal clock which can be set by
Vadev. It is strongly recommended to use the Use current PC time setting. If required, however,
any other time may also be parameterised.

Parameterising meter interface

o

o
o

NZR

Active Interface
If the modem has several interface types (e.g., Cl-1 or RS232), it is possible to select a
suitable interface here.
Initial baud rate
Here it is possible to set the initial baud rate, which is initialised after a connection has
been established between modem and meter. This is standardised at 300 baud when
Mode C is used.
Data format
The meter interface's data format may be set here.
Physical break after Establishing connection
A physical break can be sent to terminate any unwanted communication from the meter
and to thus release the interface for a new communication.
Mode C active (transparent)
With Mode C, there is a switch in the automatic baud rate, in accordance with the IEC
1107 protocol. If you disable this option, the Elster modem runs in transparent mode. In
this case, the baud rate used is always that used in the "Initial baud rate option.

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DTR signal only online (always)

This option is only enabled when sending from the RS232 interface of the DM600 and DM
630 modem types. The DTR Signal may be constantly active or only during a modem
connection.

Parameterising load profile memory

o

Time interval
The length of a measurement period may be assigned here. All the pulses occurring
within this measurement period are recorded and totalled. After a measurement period
has expired, the pulses which are part of it are saved as a load profile under a time stamp.

In order to complete the parameterisation of an Elster DM modem, you must proceed as follows:
-

connect modem to an accessible telephone socket,

set up modem in VADEV,
select the Elster DM, choose Execute/Others and the following window appears:

Fig. 7-17 Parameterise Elster DM

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Select Parameterise Elster DM to perform a parameterisation procedure. The following

dialogue appears, displaying all possible parameterisation options:

Fig. 7-18 Parameterisation options

Parameterisation options
o
Parameterise modem
The properties handled in the properties dialogue for the Elster DM are sent to the
modem. As a rule, the time and the measurement period are sent to the modem
here.
Please note that the entire load profile for all the pulse meters is deleted if the
measurement period is changed. (only relevant to DM100/DM300/DM600).
o
Reset modem
The modem is reset. This starts the modem again without the parameters being
changed.
o
Set factory configuration
The modem is changed to its delivery status. The basic settings are automatically
adopted for all the parameters.

Description
A short description of the parameterisation options selected above appears here.
After selection and confirmation, VADEV chooses the Elster DM and performs the
necessary parameterisation. If possible, make sure that the modem's LED then lights up
green.

7.6.2 Elster DM pulse meters

VADEV supports all three pulse meters available in the Elster DM series. VADEV can read out and
interpret its load curve and simulate a consumption statement. For this purpose, VADEV creates a
new physical level for any connection to the modem, when it sets up an Elster DM modem. In order to
assign a pulse meter to the Elster DM, you must first select a pulse input on the Elster DM. A DM
pulse meter can now be assigned to the Elster DM pulse input via the device database.
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For the load curve readout, the Elster DM provides the following adjustment opportunities, in addition
to the general meter data, in order to evaluate the load profile:

Fig. 7-19 Pulse data configuration

Pulse value
The number of pulses per kilowatt hour (or other measurement) is entered here. VADEV
divides the number of pulses by this figure.

Calculate consumption values

As an additional option, VADEV can simulate consumption data from the pulse meter's load
curve. In order to do this, the load curve data are simply added and reset values simulated if
necessary. The prerequisite for a correct calculation is, of course, a complete load curve.

OBIS index
specifies the OBIS index in which the consumption data are emitted.

Start status
Specifies the meter start status in the particular unit.

Simulate reset values at beginning of month

If this option is chosen, for each load profile value VADEV introduces a total for the particular
month, at midnight on the first day of the month. This can be used for calculation purposes, to
determine the monthly consumption, for example.

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Since the load profile meters in the Elster DM series are IEC1107-compliant, all the general IEC1107
protocol settings can be done with them. The following protocol options exist:

Fig. 7-20 Protocol settings

You will find a precise description of the individual protocol options in 5.8.3 Creating meters at the
correct level.
The following parameters are particularly required for the DM pulse meter:
Device address
For the Elster DM 100, the factory configuration of the device address is always 99999999.
This address applies to any pulse meter incorporated in the Elster DM.

Password
In the factory configuration, the Elster DM's pulse meters can be read out only when a
password is entered. For this reason, the Sender password option is automatically enabled
and the password P1 00000000 entered.

Divide up with load profiles during readout (in IEC 1107 load profile)
The recommended setting for reading the load profiles in the Elster pulse channel is No
blocks.

With the help of the DMSet parameterisation software, these parameters may be changed in any
way at all. Please take into account the fact that the parameters entered in VADEV must also be
updated in the event of a change.

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After the pulse meter has been correctly set up, it will be accepted in the VADEV tree structure. An
example of this is shown in the following illustration:

Fig. 7-21 Elster DM structure

7.7 ISDN readout

Creating a stable ISDN connection is a highly-problematical topic. Many suppliers have given up ISDN
readout because of poor availability and unstable transmission and have switched to GSM instead.
There are, however, areas in which there are no readout facilities except ISDN connection (no GSM
network). For this precise reason, NZR has invested time in the evaluation of a stable, reliable ISDN
readout. The result is shown in this chapter by specifying a stable configuration.

7.7.1 Design
The design of the connection should be clarified:
control computer <-RS232-> control modem <-ISDN network-> ISDN_meter modem current loop->
meter
Control computer
RS232
Control modem
ISDN network
ISDN meter modem
Current loop
Meter

NZR

= computer with VADEV remote meter reading software

= interface for control modem
= Insys Pocket ISDN Profi 2.0 modem
= ISDN phone network (S0 BUS)
= NZR UniMod-C ISDN (alternative: Elster DM300)
= 20mA interface between meter modem and meter
= any electricity meter with 20mA interface

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7.7.2 Installing the Insys Pocket ISDN Profi 2.0

Using RS232 cable, connect device to control computer's COM port and switch on.
Insert supplied installation CD in drive
Select phone and modem options in the system controls
In the modem dialog, choose the Add button
In the following dialogue, select the modem option (no automatic detection), enable and confirm
with Continue.
Choose Data medium button
Choose CD drive with installation CD and press Browse
In the ~\driver\ISDN CD path, select the file mdmstpox.inf and confirm with OK.
Press button again
Select the TA +POX X.75 driver from the options list and confirm with Continue button.
Complete installation with Complete.
Answer yes for any Windows signature test (e.g., driver did not pass the Windows Icon Test)!

7.7.3 Settings in VADEV

The new modem must be set up in the usual way in VADEV.
In the modem properties, the modem driver installed at Item 3 must be chosen:

Fig. 7-22 Select modem

In VADEV, the RS232 communication interface between control computer and control modem must
be set in exactly the same way as the communication interface between meter modem and meter.

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Example:
Communication on the current loop = 7E1 2400 baud
Setting the communication in the phone number level on RS232 in VADEV:

Fig. 7-23 Extended modem settings

This is the most important setting for ISDN readings. Since stable ISDN readings are possible only in
transparent mode these setting must be performed on the same parameters on both sides.

7.8 Br UniMod 01 meter modem with module for M-Bus/RS-232/20mA

In a similar way to the Dr Neuhaus modem, the Br/Dietrich meter modem has facilities for remote
parameterisation, facilities which can be fully exploited by VADEV through the use of its own driver.
This produces extensive usage possibilities, as VADEV is able to automatically set the modem to the
required interface parameters.

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The following settings are available for configuring the modem:

Fig. 7-24 Br UniMod parameterisation

Parameterisation
The Br modem may be operated without parameterisation. It then operates purely as a transparent
modem, similar to the Enercom 100 modem. With this setting, any interface settings (e.g., 7,E,1) must
be performed in the control modem's configuration.
If automatic reparameterisation is desired, VADEV can adjust itself automatically to the Br modems
parameterisation and can also automatically reparameterise this modem during operation. The modem
can thus be used highly flexibly for the M-Bus interface, where different baud rates often have to be
set, and also for the IEC1107 meter.
It must be noted that the Br modem does not perform any automatic baud rate adaptation and for
that reason IEC1107 meters with a fixed baud rate must be operated, e.g., 2400, 4800 or 9600 baud.

7.9 Wackenhut IMOD24 VE

The Wackenhut IMOD24 VE modem is supported by VADEV both as a meter modem and as an
integrated data logger. The individual channels of the IMOD24 can be automatically parameterised
and read out byVADEV.

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The following settings may be performed for the IMOD24 VE modem:

Fig. 7-25 Setting up Wackenhut IMOD 24 VE

The name is used only by VADEV and can be freely chosen. The serial number should match that
entered in the modem. The serial number can be set by VADEV on a one-off basis.
While adding a Wackenhut modem, VADEV automatically creates the individual physical levels for
the channels.

Fig. 7-26 IMOD24 VE communication paths

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The following settings may be made for each individual channel:

Fig. 7-27 Pulse meter settings

Firstly, the channel's function may be selected. For this, VADEV provides the following possibilities:

Current loop
The input is configured as a current loop interface for 20mA IEC1107 meters.

None/Ignore
The input is not parameterised and the modem settings are retained.

Pulse meter
The input is parameterised as a pulse meter. The following settings may be performed in turn:
o OBIS index
The OBIS index, which is intended to be associated with this input.
o Designation
Max. eight characters for the channel name
o Unit
Max. eight characters for the channel unit
o Pulse value/Conversion factor
The meter value is calculated by the following mathematical operation: Value =
(pulse/quality) X conversion factor
o Meter status
Specifies the initial meter status. The format must be given to two decimal places,
separated by a dot.

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All the IMOD24 channels may be set in this way. In order to parameterise the Wackenhut
modem, the modem must be selected and Execute/Others chosen. The following window
appears:

Fig. 7-28 Wackenhut IMOD24 VE basic parameterisation

Wackenhut IMOD24 basic parameterisation must be chosen. The following selection window
appears:

Fig. 7-29 Wackenhut parameterisation options

Here, the parameters to be configured must be chosen. It must be noted that the transfer
parameters are only to be parameterised in the case of a brand new modem. In the same
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way, parameterisation of the individual channels is optional as the meter status is deleted for
each reparameterisation.
After parameterisation,the Wackenhut IMOD24 is ready to operate.
Reading the meter statuses of pulse inputs
After a channel in the Wackenhut IMOD24 has been parameterised as a pulse input, another pseudo
meter must be connected to the pulse input in VADEV, so that it can treat the latter as normal power
meters.
For this purpose, select the channel to which a meter is connected, choose the Edit/New/Meter menu
item and choose the following meter:

Fig. 7-30 Wackenhut load curve channel selection

The Wackenhut/Load profile channel pseudo meter contains the functions for selecting your own
Wackenhut IMOD24 load profile channel.
All the normal meter parameters may be entered for this meter. This meter must be responded to and
read out in the same way as all normal VADEV meters.

7.10 Grlitz ENC 400(E)

With the Grlitz ENC.400(E) there is a remote effective participant connection. The device is able to
accept incoming calls and also to establish outgoing connections. For this purpose, many kinds of
parameterisation facilities exist in the device. VADEV Das not support the acceptance of an
established connection based on the Grlitz ENC.400(E). Any parameterisation of the Grlitz
ENC.400(E) is limited to setting a date and time.
In addition to the internal load curve meters in the Grlitz ENC.400(E) VADEV also supports the
integration of IEC 1107-compatible power meters in the Grlitz ENC.400(E). In any case, before the
Grlitz ENC.400(E) is used, its configuration should be tested and, if necessary, parameterised to your
requirements. For this purpose, the PARA400 configuration program supplied by the manufacturer,
Grlitz, must be used. In accordance with the Grlitz ENC.400(E) settings thus calculated, this device
must be used in VADEV.
In order to incorporate a Grlitz ENC.400(E) in VADEV, a physical modem connection is required, to
begin with. Carry out the steps described in the section 5.8.2 Creating physical levels, in order to
establish such a connection. Then open the extended properties dialogue of this newly-added modem
connection as further settings have to be made. Now adopt the values displayed in the following
illustration into your modem settings:

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Fig. 7-31 Modem level extended settings

Fig. 7-32 Phone-number level extended settings

It is set out in Chapter 5.8.2 below, how a control modem can now be set up downstream from this
physical modem connection. Select the ENERCOM 400 FNP modem in the following illustration:

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Fig. 7-33 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem selection

Then a dialogue appears which asks you to enter all the required properties of the ENC.400(E) meter
modem:

Fig. 7-34 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem settings

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Designation
o

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Name
The name is only used internally to display the modem and has no significance for
communication at a later stage.

Device numbers
o

Controls ID (FWLST-ID)
For the control ID, there is a 10-digit number which is used for testing the control.

Modem ID (FWEG ID):

The modem ID is the meter modem's device number. A successful login to the modem is
possible only with this number. It consists of eight digits in numerical order and should be
capable of being read from the modem's top surface.
Modem and control IDs can be parameterised with the help of the PARA400
configuration program. The numerical sequences 0000000000 or 1234567890 may be
preset as possible standard values for the control ID.

Parameterisation
o

Set the date and time

By performing a parameterisation action, VADEV parameterises the modem's time and
date on the basis of the current PC time.

After all the parameters required by VADEV for integrating a Grlitz ENC.400(E) have been entered,
the modem's properties dialogue must be closed with OK. The Grlitz ENC.400(E) is now added to
the physical hierarchical tree in VADEV. An example can be seen in the following illustration:

Fig. 7-35 ENERCOM 400 FNP structure

7.10.1

Grlitz ENC.400 (E) parameterisation

VADEV also provides the opportunity to perform a parameterisation of the Grlitz ENC.400 (E) by a
special action. This makes it possible to set the modem time and date.
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To perform a parameterisation on the Grlitz ENC.400 (E), proceed as follows:

-

connect modem to an accessible telephone socket,

set up modem in VADEV,
Select the Grlitz ENC.400 (E) and Execute/Others and the following window appears:

Fig. 7-36 ENERCOM 400 FNP structure

Select FNP parameterisation and confirm with OK. A connection to the Grlitz ENC.400(E) is
now established and the parameterisation is carried out.

7.10.2

Pulse meter on the Grlitz ENC.400 (E)

In the Grlitz ENC.400(E) there are two pulse meters supported by VADEV. While setting up the
Grlitz ENC.400(E), VADEV automatically creates a new physical level for each connection to the
modem (Channels 14). In order to allocate a pulse meter to the Grlitz ENC.400(E), a channel must
firstly be selected on the Grlitz ENC.400(E). It must be noted that only Channels 3 and 4 are able to
acquire pulse data. Via the device database, a pulse meter can now be allocated to the Grlitz
ENC.400(E).

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For the load curve readout, the Grlitz ENC.400E's pulse meter provides the following adjustment
opportunities, in addition to the general meter data, in order to evaluate the load profile and the
internal pulse meter:

Fig. 7-37 ENC400(E) pulse data

Load curve
o

OBIS index
Here you may select any OBIS index in which there is reference to the pulse meter's
load curve.

Unit
Depending on the OBIS index selected, the appropriate unit is automatically displayed
in this field. It is also possible to edit this unit, using a maximum of three characters.

Pulse meter

NZR

OBIS index
Here you may select any OBIS index in which there is reference to the pulse meter's
load curve meter.

Unit
Depending on the OBIS index selected, the appropriate unit is automatically displayed
in this field. It is also possible to edit this unit, using a maximum of three characters.

Initial meter status

Specifies the initial meter status.

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Load curve and pulse meter

o

Pulse quality/Conversion factor

The meter value is calculated by the following mathematical operation:
value = (pulse/quality) X conversion factor These settings apply equally to the load
curve and the pulse meter.

Type of readout
o
o
o

page 129

General reading - do not note call

The Enercom 400s entire load profile is read out. The time of the reading is not noted.
General reading - note call
The Enercom 400s entire load profile is read out. The time of the reading is noted.
Remaining reading - do not note call
The Enercom 400 (E)s load profile is read out from the last noted readout time. The
time of the reading is not noted.
Remaining reading - note call
The Enercom 400 (E)s load profile is read out from the last noted readout time. The
time of the reading is noted.

Use markers
To save always transferring the entire load profile memory, the FNP modem is able to remember
four different readout times. In conjunction with the type of readout, it is thus possible to reduce
the number of load profile data for transfer. Here it is possible to select one of these readout
times by setting Markers 0-3. Each of these markers represents a possible noted readout time.

After the pulse meter has been correctly set up, it is accepted into the VADEV tree structure. An
example of this is shown in the following illustration:

Fig. 7-38 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem structure

VADEV also supports the setting up of IEC 1107-compliant meters. For example, in the illustration
provided above an IEC 1107 electricity meter is already integrated.
Important: If IEC 1107-compliant meters are used, a reading by means of a given device address is
not possible in VADEV. Thus the maximum possible is one IEC 1107-compatible meter connected to
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the Grlitz ENC.400 (E). With every IEC 1107-compliant meter, the Device address property must be
kept free.
It must also be noted that the baud rate of the meter connected to the Grlitz ENC.400 (E) has to be
adapted to it. And so it must be 1200 bit/sec.

7.11 LON connection

A LON connection is set up at the physical level in VADEV. For this purpose, the interface and the
name must be allocated to the LNS database.
My Computer must be chosen for setting up a LON connection at the physical level. Then LON
Connection (WLDV32) must be selected in Edit/New/Others:

Fig. 7-39 LON connection selection

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The following selection window appears:

Fig. 7-40 Selection of existing LON LNS project with interface

Designation
Any designation whatsoever may be specified for the LON connection.
Lon server configuration
This option must be chosen if the LNS database is not on the same computer as the VADEV
software. In this case, the particular computer must be accessed via the network.
In this case also, the computer name or the computer's IP address must be entered in the
appropriate field.
Update: When this button is pressed, the lists for the Lon projects and the LON Interfaces are
updated. This can then be selected via the following items:
Please select a LON project
VADEV is searching the computer for LNS database projects. The desired project may be
selected from the list by the arrow.
LON interface
VADEV is searching the computer for installed LON interfaces. The desired LON interface may
be selected from the list by the arrow.

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While adding a LON connection at the physical level, VADEV creates a icon for the LON connection.

Fig. 7-41 LON connection

The rest of the meters to be read are set up at the level of the LON connection which has just been set
up. (see Chapter 8.4 Interpretation of LONWORKS data)

7.12 Actaris Sparkline modem

The Actaris Sparkline modem is a data transfer device for remote querying and monitoring of
electricity, gas or water meters. It is based on a communication module (PSTN/ISDN/GSM) and an
internal controller which manages all the parameters necessary for transparent data traffic.
The Sparkline modem/ISDN/GSM provides three interfaces for communicating with terminals (power
meters). RS-232, RS-485 and CS 2 Wire (power interface) The current version of VADEV supports
only the Sparkline modem variant with CL interface. The CL interface is designed as standard for
active use and can be set to passive use in the device, by means of a jumper. Only one of the three
interfaces can be active at the same time. For communicating with terminals, the Sparkline Light
series provides only one CL interface.
For connecting with the control, there are three methods available via public communication networks:
analogue modem connection (14400 or 33600 bps), ISDN and GSM.

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The options shown in the following illustration can be changed in VADEV and sent to the modem:

Fig. 7-42 Actaris Sparkline parameterisation

Baud rate
The baud rate refers to the baud rate of the modem module plugged into the modem. It is normally
the same as the baud rate in the meter interface.

Data format:
The meter interface's data format may be set here.

Enable system time

If this option is enabled, the current system time with computer date is transferred to the modem
while it is being parameterised. As an option, any date together with a time may be set if this
option is disabled.

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The Sparkline modem is parameterised by means of the configuration action mentioned below:

Fig. 7-44 Action: Configure Actaris Sparkline

The following selection dialogue then appears:

Fig. 7-43 Parameterisation options

Parameterise modem
Here, the modem parameters set in the properties dialogue are evaluated and sent to the modem.

Read modem parameters

The parameters entered in the modem are read out and saved in VADEV. An overview of the
parameters received by the modem can be seen in the properties dialogue. All the set values are
overwritten here.
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Perform basic settings

The modem is reset in its delivery status. All the parameters are overwritten by the Sparkline
modem's basic settings.

If any button is enabled and the OK button is pressed, VADEV performs the particular action
selected. A subsequent information dialogue gives details of the current parameterisation process.
Information is given here on a successful or possibly unsuccessful parameterisation.
It is not possible to enter a password. It must also be noted that any enabled passwords must be
disabled before using VADEV. No password protection is enabled in the modem's basic setting.
It has proved to be the case in practice that not all meters are responsive via the Sparkline modem in
Protocol Mode C. Configuring the meters to 300 baud with appropriate modem parameterisation
should solve this problem.

7.13 General devices

In order to guarantee the clarity and consistency of the physical levels, VADEV makes it possible to
display transparent modems, converters and other devices which do not need any controls
whatsoever, by means of a general physical device.
The following configuration options are possible for devices of this type:

Fig. 7-44 General device

General
A name for the device may be entered here.

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Fig. 7-45 Icon selection

Images/Icons
Here you can select a symbol for the device which makes visual identification easier for the end user.
Note: No more than 10 physical levels should be created for general devices, otherwise
inconsistencies may result when the levels are used.

7.14 Virtual Meters

VADEV allows virtual meters to be set up. Virtual meters behave like normal meters in the VADEV
system but instead of reading out a meter which exists in reality, VADEV performs other operations.
This is used, for example, for generating synthetic load curves or for simple load profile arithmetic.

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In order for you to be able to install a virtual meter, a suitable connection must firstly be installed at the
physical level:

Fig. 7-46 Virtual connection selection

The My Computer main object must be selected at the physical level. Via the New, Others
selection menu, the Connection for virtual meters must be selected.
The virtual meters can then be installed on the physical structure downstream from this level. The
meter may be freely sequenced at the other levels.

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Virtual meters - synthetic load profile

In order to create a meter for generating synthetic load profiles, a new meter must be set up in the
usual way. The particular type must be chosen in the device database:

Fig. 7-47 Device database: Virtual meters

In the next window, the general meter data must be specified. The installation date must be noted
here, as VADEV generates the load curve from this date. The User Profile page is designed
particularly for this meter type:

Fig. 7-48 User profile:

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Here the user profile (behind which a suitable standardised load profile is saved) is selected and the
multiplication factors are saved. A list of possible user load profiles is available separately and
corresponds to the VDEW directives (synthetic load curves).
Factors
The particular adaptation factors, including start time, may be specified here. New factors are
entered by the Add button:

Fig. 7-49 User profile factor:

In accordance with the VDEW directive, the customer's consumption for the previous year should be
entered in MWh, as a factor.
Note: VADEV generates the load curve accordingly during a reading; because of this, normal
readout action should be set up on the meter.

7.14.2

Virtual meters- load profile arithmetic

By means of this virtual meter, VADEV can add or subtract load curves of real meters and save the
result accordingly.
In order to create a meter for load curve arithmetic, a new meter must be set up in the usual way. The
particular type must be selected:

Fig. 7-50 Device database: Virtual meters

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In the next window, the general meter data must be specified. Notice must be taken of the installation
date. VADEV generates the load curve from this date. The Value calculation page is designed
particularly for this meter type:

Fig. 7-51 Value calculation

VADEV can calculate several OBIS indices for the meter simultaneously. Normally only the load
profile (1-1:1.5) is used but if other indices are desired they may be configured in the same way.
In order to enter an index for calculation, the Add item must be chosen.

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Fig. 7-52 Value calculation: Edit index

Here the new index is selected with the following settings:

OBIS index
Here you can select the OBIS index which VADEV writes to the database for the calculated
values:

Time interval
Here, select the time interval for the calculation of load curves - usually 15 minutes.

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Components for the calculation

Here you choose the individual meters of which the values are to be linked. Here, choose Add to
search for a meter:

Fig. 7-53 Value calculation: Link

The meter may be selected here.

OBIS index
Select the OBIS index of the selected meter; this index is to be used in the calculation.

Link
Here, choose Add or Subtract as desired.

Factor
Choose a factor here, e.g. 0.3. In the above example, all the 1-1:1.5s are multiplied by 0.3 and
then added.

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In order, for example, to calculate the mean value of two load profiles, you only have to add the two
meters with the values, include a factor of 0.5 and add them up:

Fig. 7-54 Value calculation: Index added

Note: VADEV does the load profile arithmetic as part of a normal readout, so that you should save a
readout action on the meter or at the entire level.

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Individual initialisation

Individual initialisation allows characters or strings to be sent, before a meter is read. This function can
be very helpful, especially in the case of meters which have to be reactivated by characters being sent
repeatedly.
Setup is as a General Device as described in Chapter 5.8.2. As device, the entry Individual
initialisation must then be selected, as shown in Fig. 7.15-1:

Fig. 7-55 Individual initialisation

It is possible to set up several nested initialisations with the object nearest to the meter always being
used first (see Fig. 7.15-2).

Fig. 7-56 Individual initialisation

In order to keep the initialisation as flexible as possible, in addition to specifying an initialisation string,
still other options, shown in Fig.7.15-3, may be modified.
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Fig. 7-57 Settings for individual initialisation

Name:
Here it is possible to assign any name for the initialisation.
Waiting time after connection is established:
Here it is possible to specify a time for waiting before VADEV begins with the transmitter of a string.
This specification is in milliseconds.
Send following string after connection has been established:
In this field it is possible to enter any string to be sent for initialising a device.
The characters 0x are an exception. If these characters are placed in front of the string, all the
following characters are interpreted in hexadecimal form. As well as digits, the letters from a to f or
A to F are allowed. Two places form a hexadecimal value from 0 to 255. By means of this
interpretation, it is possible to enter special and control characters which are frequently used in remote
meter reading.
Number of repetitions:
In order to send a string several times, it is possible to specify the repetitions here.
Waiting time before repetition:
Waiting is for the time specified (in milliseconds), before the string for transmission is resent. The
precondition is, of course, the specification of a number of repetitions.
Change the baud rate to:
Here it is possible to specify a baud rate between 300 and 38400 baud.

Wait until the end:

Waiting is for the time specified here, after a string has been sent for the last time.

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8 Protocol information
An outstanding feature of the VADEV software is a unification of the usual bus systems and
protocols on the meter market. By means of its modular architecture, VADEV supports all commonlyused protocols and provides a unified display and interface for the end-user by consistent
standardisation of the values received in the OBIS system.
By this means, VADEV must undertake some evaluations of the meter data received, as they have
to be converted from the bus-specific format to the uniform VADEV format. The individual
configuration options and interpretations of the bus protocols are described in the following chapters.

8.1 Interpretation of IEC1107 meters

Compared to other meters, ZVEI/IEC1107-based meters deliver a large number of measurements and
displays. Most meters have several data tables which contain different values. Moreover, many
meters, such as EMH meters, permit a command mode, via which load profile data, for example, can
be read out specifically according to date.
Through complex internal configuration facilities, VADEV provides total support for these readout
tables and for the command mode. To prevent the end-user from being confronted with these pieces
of internal information, all the devices are preconfigured in a device database in VADEV. The enduser must enter only normal parameters, such as the bus address or a baud rate.
By means of the preconfiguration process, VADEV can determine intelligently which data table has
to be read out, in order to deliver the values which the user desires. VADEV also remembers the last
readout times, so that load curves, for example, may be read out intelligently. VADEV automatically
reads only the new load curve data which are not yet in the VADEV database.
In setting up a meter, the following end-user information is also typically required:

Fig. 8-1 IEC1107 protocol settings

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IEC 1107 protocol

Baud rate
The meters baud rate is entered here. Dynamic (Mode C) means a transfer in IEC1107 with
dynamic baud rate switching. In the case of a fixed baud rate, the latter must be entered
accordingly.

Device address
It is possible to connect up to four IEC1007 devices to a CL0 interface (20mA). If more than one
device is connected to the CL0 interface, the device address has to be maintained. In the case of
only one device on the current loop, this is not necessary.

Verify serial number

Many meters return a serial number, which VADEV has the option of comparing with the serial
number field in the database. This can serve as an extra security check, so that values from an
incorrect meter are not read and saved to the database.

Send login password

Many meters require a password to access command mode. It may be entered here.

Number of resets
Here the number of VADEV resets is entered automatically and updated after each reading.
Here, the user does not have to make any entries of their own. For many meters, it is important
not to skip a reset as they do not return any reset table.

Divide up load profiles during readout

VADEV is able to divide up the transferred data volume during a load curve readout. This is an
advantage, especially in the case of long readout intervals and poor phone connections. In the
case of a false readout (checksum is wrong), VADEV must normally request the entire data
block from the meter again. While the load curve is being divided up, VADEV automatically
demands only a shorter period from the meter and therefore must resend less data in the case of
a transfer error. This makes the load curve reading considerably more stable.
The block size should be determined from the experiences gleaned from former readings; as a
standard value, a fortnightly division is set here, i.e. the load curve is always read out at 14-day
intervals.
Interpretation instructions:
The following instructions are given for the interpretation of the IEC1107 data, in order to make it
easier for users to evaluate the data read by VADEV:
Resets
VADEV automatically allocates each value in a reset to the particular date/time of the reset. In
the same way, a reset value is identified by a special value type. VADEV does not, however,
save the number of the reset, as it is both bus-dependent and dependent on the particular meter.
For many users, this is initially difficult to get used to, as they are used to the conventional notation
of *03, etc. In VADEV, these values are assigned to the particular time. That has the advantage
of manual resets not making any difference in this case, as the automatic resets always occur at
the same time.
To make the transition phase for data interpretation easier, in the case of saving measurements
VADEV also provides the raw data field in which the original value, including reset ID, is saved.
Setting files:
VADEV allows setting and parameter files to be sent to the meter during a reading. The content
and form of the setting files basically depend on the meter manufacturer and are in themselves of
no significance to VADEV. To make specific functions possible, for example, setting a time in the
meter, VADEV provides the use of variables within the setting file. The current time can thus be
given a variable, for example, which VADEV replaces on every call, immediately before
transmission to the meter. The following variables are specified:

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$VD_TIME: [MEZ|MESZ|UTC] <datumsformat>$

MEZ/MESZ/UTC: Specifies the time base for the current time.
The following characters are significant within the date format:
HH hour, in 24-hour format
hh hour, in 12-hour format
mm minutes
ss seconds
dd day
MM month
yy year, last two digits
yy year, all four digits
Separators may be provided in between.
Example:

$VD_TIME: MESZ yyyy-MM-dd HH:mm:ss$

is replaced by the following:

2001-08-27 13:45:20
$VD_METER_SERIALNO$
is replaced by the meter's serial number.

$VD_METER_SERIALNO$
is replaced by the meter's electricity supply company number.

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8.2 Interpretation of D-Bus data

The NZR D-Bus for remote meter reading is fully supported in the VADEV software. Here, VADEV
is based on the Standard NZR output stage, which converts the D-Buss 2 Wire communication to an
RS-232-based protocol.
The following configuration possibilities are provided for D-Bus devices:

Fig. 8-2 D-BUS protocol settings

D-Bus parameters

Device address
The D-Bus device address without the type designation is entered here. The address does not
have to be formatted; any leading zeros are automatically entered by VADEV.

Maximal reading timeout

Specifies the timeout for reading data - normally 5 seconds.

Data date for the memory value

Specifies the date to which the memory value is set VADEV uses this value to assign a date to a
returned value. D-Bus memory values are considered as automatic resets.

Number of repeats in the case of reading errors

Here you can enter how often VADEV repeats a reading on an individual meter in case of error,
before the next meter is addressed.

Waiting time between repeats

Specifies how long VADEV waits between two repeat attempts before a new query is sent to the
D-Bus output stage.

Serial parameters
Here, serial parameters may be set for the output stage. This is, however, required only in
exceptional cases.

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VADEV includes automatic conversion of the D-Bus values to the OBIS index system. As
standardisation still does not exist in many areas, the index system has been extended with caution. If
standardisation is finally approved in these areas, VADEV may accordingly perform a conversion.

8.3 Interpretation of M-Bus data

VADEV contains an M-Bus driver, which is fully based on the M-Bus Rev 4.8 specifications. This
allows VADEV to read all types of M-Bus meters, provided that they conform to the M-Bus standard.
The following configuration options are available for M-Bus devices:

Fig. 8-3 M-BUS protocol settings

M-Bus parameters
Control by primary address
o

Primary address
M-Bus devices may be addressed by a primary or secondary address. A primary address
may be configured here.

Control by secondary address

o

Device ID
A secondary address is specified here.

Manufacturer
The three-character manufacturer code for the secondary address is specified here.
Note: It is normally optional to specify the manufacturer code. With devices from
Kamstrup, however, the KAM manufacturer's tag must always be quoted.

Generation
The M-BUSs device generation is specified here. It is optional to specify the generation.

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Medium
The medium code for the secondary address is specified here. It is also optional to specify
the medium code.

Advanced settings
o

Maximal reading timeout

Specifies the interruption time for reading data. Extended Here, the communication
parameters for the device, related to a readout, may be changed as follows:

The maximal number of tables is specified by the number 0. Entering continuous meters,
however, can narrow it down to a more precise definition of the number of tables.

Fig. 8-4 M-BUS communication parameters

Only the baud rate normally has to be adapted here, since Communication Parameters 8,E,1
are standardised.
In the case of reading an M-Bus meter, all the standardised meter values are read out and
saved. It is also possible to read out the manufacturer-specific data of an M-Bus data packet.
This can be implemented for individual devices according to requirements, provided this
information is available.
VADEV includes automatic conversion of the M-Bus values to the OBIS index system. As
standardisation still does not exist in many areas, the index system has been extended with
caution. If standardisation is finally approved in these areas, VADEV may accordingly
perform a conversion.
VADEV has an internal conversion table which adapts the M-Bus indices to the OBIS
standard. In individual cases, it can happen that a device issues an M-Bus index which cannot
yet be given an equivalent OBIS index by VADEV. In such cases, you should contact NZR
with the particular data, so that an adaptation process may be carried out in VADEV.

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8.4 Interpretation of LONWORKS data

VADEV contains a LON driver, which is based completely on access to an LNS database. Setting up
the physical path is described in Chapter 7.11 This permits VADEV to read all types of LON meters,
provided they are linked to the LNS database and saved to the VADEV device database.
LON meters from other manufacturers may be accepted in the VADEV device database, provided
standardised network variables have been used.
The following configuration options are available for LON meters:

Fig. 8-5 LON-BUS protocol settings

LON parameters

Control via Neuron ID

LON devices may be addressed by the Neuron ID. The precise notation is important here
(lower/upper case).

Control via Node ID (not yet implemented).

Node ID
The Node ID is specified here.

Subnet ID
The Subnet ID is specified here.

Readout time
VADEV automatically saves all the times from the last readout of all the data tables. This means
that VADEV can intelligently read only the data which have changed since the last reading, such
as in the case of load curves. It may sometimes be advisable to read out older data. For this
purpose, you choose the start date from which the data are to be read and confirm with Set! It is
to be noted that the current date is normally always displayed in the date field. Here, it is not
possible to come to any conclusions as to when the last reading took place.
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Channel number
Some LON devices work as multichannel pulse data collectors and copy the meter status or the
load curve. Here, the channel number used by the device may be selected. This function is
enabled only for the respective devices.

8.5 Interpretation of NZR wireless data

The NZR wireless technology for meter data acquisition is fully supported in the VADEV software. A
wireless modem with USB or Bluetooth interface may be used for communicating with the wireless
devices.
The following configuration possibilities are provided for NZR wireless devices:

Fig. 8-6 NZR wireless protocol settings

Wireless parameters

Wireless address
The eight-character device address is entered here.

Pulse input
The pulse input to be read is specified here (only applies to pulse module).

Repeat attempts
Specifies the number of repeats. This is normally 0, because the wireless modem already
performs several repeats internally, if the meter is not accessed.

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8.6 Interpretation of the DSfG data

8.6.1 Basic DSfG principles
The abbreviation DSfG stands for Digitale Schnittstelle fr Gasmessgerte [Digital Interface for Gas
Measurement Equipment] and has been stipulated by the deutsche Vereinigung des Gas- und
Wasserfaches e.V. (DVGW) [German Association for the Gas and Water Industries] in Work Sheet
G485. This standard specifies a master-slave bus system with a maximum of 31 participants. A bus
participant acts as busmaster and has standard transmission rights. All the other bus participants
initially operate in receive mode.
A normal DSfG-Bus consists of at least three instances:
- the convertor instance
- a register instance and
- the remote transfer unit (DF)
The convertor instance specifies the interval end and creates mean measurement values from one
event to the next. The register instance retrieves the meter statuses on an event-oriented basis and
saves them in its archive. Using the remote transfer unit instance, these data may be queried,
irrespective of the manufacturer.
A DSfG driver is incorporated in VADEV and it can read out and process the data from a register
instance. Each device is preconfigured in the specifications database. The definition of the register
instance, in particular, is saved so that the driver can process the data correctly.

8.6.2 DSfG output stage

The DSfG output stage is an object which is set up on the physical level. It has the primary task of
initiating communication with the remote transfer unit.

Fig. 8-7 DSfG output stage on the physical level

Select a phone number level on the physical level and then go to New-> Others->DSfG Output
Stage.

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Fig. 8-8 DSfG output stage

Then confirm your selection with OK.

Fig. 8-9 DSfG output stage configuration

In the configuration, the central ID is automatically set to 1111111111111111 (16x1). During the
login process, the central ID is sent to the remote transfer unit instance and is evaluated there.

8.6.3 DSfG-Bus scan action

The DSfG-Bus scan action has been introduced to search the DSfG-Bus for participants. All 31
possible addresses are checked in the process. The participants recognised are saved in the event
protocol. Then the DSfG devices can be configured accordingly.
Proceed as follows, if you wish to perform a scan action. First select the DSfG output stage in the
physical view. Using the right mouse button, open the context menu and then the Execute-> Others
menu item.
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Fig. 8-10 DSfG-Bus scan action

Confirm your selection with OK.

Fig. 8-11 Protocolled DSfG-Bus scan action

The bus address, instance type, manufacturer, device and serial number are produced in the report.
The instance type may be interpreted as follows:
-R (register instance)
-W (manufacturer-specific Wieser instance)
-C (convertor instance)
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The result can then be accepted accordingly in the device properties.

Fig. 8-12 Settings for the DSfG instance

The serial number is entered under General in the Serial number field:

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Fig. 8-13 DSfG device serial number

8.6.4 DSfG data query

Querying the DSfG data is the same as for other meters in the VADEV system. In the table selection,
it is specified which archived data have to be read out, as is the time from which they have to be
queried. Data are normally acquired via several pulse inputs.

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Fig. 8-14 DSfG table selection

In VADEV, the archived load curve data are saved as counter statuses at the interval end and also
as a genuine load profile. The load profile is calculated from the imported counter statuses.
The standard table supplies the current values which may be queried by the (manufacturer-specific)
Wieser instance.

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Additional functions
Many of VADEV's additional functions such as an automatic data import, configuration of devices,
etc., are defined as actions. This architecture allows all the functions to be modularly implemented
internally.
Here there are generally-applicable actions which may be performed at any level and actions which
may be performed only at specific devices. An example of a general action is a readout action or the
D-Bus database import and an example of a device-specific action is the parameterisation action in Dr
Neuhaus modems.
In addition to data acquisition, data export is a main component of VADEV software. The data export
function is provided for many formats, such as Microsoft Excel, VDEW MSCONS or also a line-based
ASCII format. These exports may be individually configured by the user.

8.7 Raw data import

VADEV offers the possibility of importing read-out raw data from meters at a later stage. This can,
for example, be used to import already-read files from EMHs ZKP program to the VADEV system.
Another application is importing an MDE data logger readout file, for interpreting an individual NZR
radio meter from the file.
With a raw data import, VADEV interprets the data as if they had been read out directly from the
meter. For this purpose, the meter type must, of course, be recognised and incorporated in VADEV.
Furthermore, under certain circumstances, the original table must be chosen in the case of importing
IEC1107 electricity meter data, as the date formats and time bases are different for many meter types.
To import data for a meter, select the meter and choose Execute/Import raw data

Fig. 8-15 Import raw data file

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Then a selection window appears, in which the file to be loaded and the corresponding table must be
selected:

Fig. 8-16 Import raw data

After confirmation, VADEV performs an import. Please note the following:

The user must take care to correctly allocate the file to a meter, as data which are not supposed to be
allocated to this meter at all could otherwise also be imported to a meter..
Since VADEV performs a normal interpretation of the readout data, the meter's serial number is also
checked, in the case of IEC 1107 meters. If an attempt should be made to import raw data from other
meters, this fails if the Check serial number option in IEC1107 Protocol is chosen in the meter
properties. It is, therefore, advantageous to choose this option for the interpretation of raw data, in
order to prevent incorrect allocations.

8.8 Substitute value creation

There is the possibility of enabling substitute value creation for D-BUS, M-BUS and LONWORKS data.
This VADEV functionality is not supported for IEC 1107 meters, as these devices have a data
recorder which, in the case of current non-accessibility, can be read at any later time.
Substitute Value Creation must be specifically enabled in the meter properties in VADEV. For that
purpose, the Substitute Value Creation dialogue must be chosen in the meter properties

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Fig. 8-17 Substitute value creation in general

Substitute value creation may be enabled for two applications:

Substitute value creation load curves active

The following options are conceivable for substitute value creation of load curves:

OBIS selection
The OBIS values for which the substitute value creation for load curves must be executed
must be chosen here.

Period
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

All values
Substitute value creation by all the values available in the
database
This year Substitute value creation by all the values from this current year
Yesterday
Substitute value creation by the previous day's values
Last week Substitute value creation by the previous week's values
Last month Substitute value creation by the previous month's values
Last year Substitute value creation by the previous year's values
Last quarter Substitute value creation by the previous quarter's values

Daytime synchronous reference values

The substitute value creation is synchronised to the daytime of the value to be created. This
means that, for substitute value creation, the only values used are those which have a time
stamp within the period of the value to be created
Weekday synchronous reference values
The substitute value creation is synchronised to the weekday of the value to be created.
This means that, for substitute value creation, the only values used are those which have a
time stamp within the period of, and on the same weekday as, the value to be created.

NZR

Monthly synchronous reference values

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The substitute value creation is synchronised to the month of the value to be created. This
means that, for substitute value creation, the only values used are those which have a time
stamp within the period of, and on the same weekday and in the same month as, the value
to be created.
Attention: Substitute value creation can only be successfully executed with the
precondition that data also exist in the VADEV database for the chosen period. Care must
be taken to ensure that substitute value creation is parameterised accordingly.

Substitute value creation consumption data active

OBIS selection
The OBIS values for which the substitute value creation for consumption data must be
executed must be chosen here.

A substitute value creation process for consumption data creates a substitute value in VADEV
for the estimated meter progress in a measurement period in which the meter could not be
accessed.
The substitute value creation process in VADEV is initiated at the moment in which the current
meter for reading, with substitute value creation enabled, appears with the error message Meter
could not be prepared for reading or Meter could not be read. In this case the substitute value
creation process is enabled instead of a readout and a substitute value is created.

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9 Remedying faults
By reason of its intelligent architecture, VADEV provides only a small number of configuration
options. This means that faults in configuration are largely prevented.
It is unfortunately possible, however, to parameterise many parameters incorrectly, such as baud rate,
bus address or modem parameters and thus prevent successful meter reading. In the enclosures,
some information and tips are mentioned which have contributed to remedying faults in practice:

9.1 Modem readout via phone system

Modem faults are the most frequent problems in the installation of a remote meter reading system. An
internal, widely ramified phone system is often used for reading meters. Phone systems have their
own configuration facilities which have largely to be set precisely in accordance with the requirements
of a modem operation. The following settings should be performed in the phone system:
Ring pattern: The ring pattern for internal and external calls is often different. With internal rings,
many modems do not answer, as the programming for modems is designed for a standard ring.
Dialling tone: Telephone systems often provide another dialling tone from the standard one, which
many modems interpret as the engaged tone.
Poor connection: With many telephone systems, the internal calls are set up with an incorporated
delay. The modems then have no way of setting up a proper carrier.
Call waiting tone Many phone systems provide the possibility of modulating upon a call waiting tone,
which emits a high audio signal, if external calls come in. With active modem communication, this
immediately results in termination, as the modem carrier is disturbed.
All these problems mentioned must be remedied by configuring the telephone system and cannot be
solved by VADEV, irrespective of possibilities of switching to GSM, etc.

9.2 Adjustment faults with modems

With intelligent modems which have their own VADEV driver, VADEV emits direct error messages
which indicate the cause of the fault. In many cases it is faulty recognition in the Dr Neuhaus modem
or wrong password settings. These faults must be remedied directly by the end-user.

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9.3 Other communication problems

The following flowcharts have been produced for the individual bus systems, to make troubleshooting
easier.

Fig. 9-1 D-BUS faults analysis

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Fig. 9-2 M-BUS faults analysis

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Fig. 9-3 IEC1107 meter faults analysis

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9.4 Interpretation errors

As all the meters are preconfigured in VADEV, they have received the necessary adjustments and
been tested, faults in data interpretation cannot normally occur.
If VADEV reports faults, especially with IEC1107 meters, this is mainly attributable to different device
generations and firmware versions of the meters. Thus, EMH meters, for example, use different dates
in different device generations. These are preconfigured in VADEV with the result that the end user
has normally selected a wrong meter type. In individual cases, another similar device type should be
configured and tested in VADEV, in order to identify the real device type more precisely. If, however,
error messages should still be reported during the data interpretation, it is recommended that they be
sent to MZR with precise details on meter types, the error messages and VADEVs configuration
database.

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10 User reference
10.1 Menu items
The following menu items may be selected in VADEV. The corresponding icon is noted in brackets
on the button bar:

10.1.1

Menu: file

Fig. 10-1 Menu file

Open(

) Opens an existing VADEV. (Only for Technical Support)

Print: (

) Starts to print out the currently selected screen

Printer setup: Sets up the print options

Quit:

Quits VADEV

Fig. 10-2 Menu file (Client/server version)

Cut server connection

Cuts the connection to the VADEV server.

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Download file from server

Transfers a file from the server to the client computer. Proceed as follows if you would like to
download a file. Firstly select the file on the server. In the selection window, the computer
name, for example, VADEV-SERVICE is displayed as information (see chapter 15 Basic
configuration)

Fig. 10-3 Download file from server - selection window

After you have confirmed your selection with OK, a window appears for inputting the target
directory on the local computer. Click on Save to start the transfer.

Fig. 10-4 Download file from server specify target directory and file

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Upload file to server

Transfers a file from the local computer to the VADEV server computer. The procedure is
similar to downloading a file. First of all, you select a file on the local computer and then
specify the target file on the VADEV server computer.

10.1.2

Menu: edit

Fig. 10-5 Edit menu

New:

Delete: (

Properties: (

Device database:

10.1.3

Sets up a new meter or level (see below)

)

deletes a meter or a level.

)

Edits the currently selected meter or level.

Licence-protected option. Editing the device database
is possible by activating this entry

Menu: Edit, new

Fig. 10-6 Edit new menu

Meter: (

NZR

Opens a new meter under the currently selected

level.

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COM port: (

Ethernet:

Modem: (

Phone number:

House/Block: (

Others: (

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Opens a new COM port under the currently selected

level.
Creates a new network connection (TCP/IP).

Sets up a new control modem or modem route.

Sets up a new phone number under a modem level.
)
Sets up a new organisational level.

10.1.4

Sets up another object, e.g. meter modem or output stage.

Menu: execute

Fig. 10-7 Execute menu

Read meters: (
)
Reads the currently selected meter or all the meters on the current level and writes the
values to the database.

Read meters extended: (

)
Asks the user about the data tables to be read and attempts to read out these lists from
the currently selected meters or all the meters on the current level and writes these values
to the database.

Check meters: (
)
Performs a test readout on the selected meter without writing the values read to the
database.

Read meters (simultaneously):

Reads the currently selected meters or all the meters on the current level and writes the
values to the database. A simultaneous reading is performed if several modems are
connected.

Read meters (simultaneously) extended:

Asks the user about the data tables to be read and attempts to read out these lists from
the currently selected meters or all the meters on the current level and writes these values
to the database. A simultaneous reading is performed if several modems are connected.

Import raw data file:

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Imports raw data file for the currently selected meter and opens the values interpreted
from this file in the database. (see chapter 9.2 Raw Data Import)

Export meter values:

Exports the values of the selected meter according to an export profile selected in the
following dialogue.

Others:
Displays a list of other actions which may be performed on the currently selected meter or
level.

)
Perform actions automatically (
Indicates whether actions are currently being automatically performed or not. If VADEV
is being configured, it is sometimes advisable to switch off the actions.

Renew meters from database

Performs an update of all the configured meters with the device database. Only advisable
in connection with updates for Technical Support.

10.1.5

Menu: export

Fig. 10-8 Export menu

Edit profile:
Permits creation and editing of export profiles.

Export meter values:

Performs an export by means of an existing export profile.

10.1.6

Menu: view

Fig. 10-9 View menu

Button bar:
Shows or hides the icon or button bar

Status bar:
Shows or hides the status bar at the bottom of the screen.

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Synchronise: (
)
Executes a one-off synchronisation on both the screen halves.

Always synchronise: (
Always switches on synchronisation for both the screen halves.

MDE synchronisation: ( )
Shows or hides the status bar at the bottom of the screen.

Settings
When the Set view item is selected, the following dialogue appears:

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Fig. 10-10 User settings -general

User-defined settings
In this item, the user has several selection possibilities which should be explained here in
greater detail:

NZR

Save selected OBIS indices

The OBIS indices, which are set in the values view before VADEV closes, are also
set when it opens again.

Save table column width

The set table column width in the Values or Protocol view is retained in VADEV
during closing and reopening.

Note selected meters

The meter selected while VADEV is closing is also selected when it opens again.

Show tabs as tree view

Changes the usual tab view of the properties dialogue to a view in tree structure.

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Extended settings:

Fig. 10-11 User settings - extended

NZR

Confirm objects move

If objects are moved in the left half of the view, the user is requested to confirm.

Open object properties by double clicking

If enabled, the object properties are displayed by double-clicking on objects in the left
half of the view.

Saving the values displayed in the graph

If enabled, the graphs for the values last shown are displayed the next time the graph
is opened.

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Quick start bar:

Fig. 10-12 User settings - quick start bar

The quick start bar can be configured to user specifications. A maximum of 10 keys is
available. A maximum of one export file may be allocated to each key.

10.1.7

Menu: user (only client/server version)

Fig. 10-13 User menu

Info
Displays user information.

AdministrationOpens the user administration (for administrators only)

10.1.8

Menu: help

Fig. 10-14 Help menu

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Help
When this option is chosen, this manual is opened as a Windows helpfile.

Licence information
This menu displays information on the licensed functions.

Info on VADEV
This menu displays information on the VADEV version.

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11 Licensing options
The various VADEV licensing options make possible both a low-cost start and excellent expansion
capabilities for monitoring large meter systems. That is why VADEV turns out to be a sound
investment for the future which grows with your needs.
In order to preserve these capabilities, the individual modules, protocols and drivers are licensed in
VADEV individually or in packets.
You can have the currently-licensed options displayed, by having the version window displayed in
Help menu/Licence information and choosing the Licence information option. The following
window is displayed:

Fig. 11-1 Licence information:

Here the maximal number of licensed meters, the special functions and the bus systems are
displayed.
For further questions on licensing or for extending your licensed functions, please contact NZR.

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12 Extensions
12.1 VV2 support
VADEV contains support for the Verbnde-Vereinbarung 2 (VV2) [Associations Agreement 2],
available as an option. Here VADEV provides convenient configuration of the individual functions. By
combining a new level and special actions, VADEV can be directly extended to a system for
forwarding meter information.
The individual characteristics of the VV2 support are explained below.

12.1.1

Budget level

When VV2 support is selected, VADEV has another level, the budget level, at its disposal:

Fig. 12-1 Accounting grid

All the meters can be allocated to budget levels, irrespective of their organisational and physical
sequence, so that the structures created there will not have to be changed because of access
permission problems.
Here, a budget level in VADEV accepts the following functions:
Representation of an accounting grid
Representation of sub-accounting grids
Representation of meter points in accordance with VV2
At least two sub-levels, additive and subtractive, form part of a budget level. These levels decide
whether a meter is added or subtracted to a budget level. Here, subtraction is intended for the
analytical load curve process.
Budget surpluses may, of course, be sub-levels of other levels and in this respect a nested structure
can be attained. VADEV does not contain any restrictions on the number of nested levels.
Create budget level:
In order to create a new budget level, proceed as follows:

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The particular superior level must be selected. With Edit/New the accounting grid must be selected.
The following dialogue appears:

Fig. 12-2 General budget level

General
A user definable name for the level is entered here.

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Fig. 12-3 Budget level data forwarding

Data forwarding
If the aggregated data on the budget level are to be automatically exported and forwarded, this
selection may be made here.

Export profile
An already-existing export profile for export may be selected here. It must be noted that its own
export format must be chosen for each budget level, i.e. different formats may be supported in
access scenarios by suppliers and dealers. With the export profile, only the first values table is
described..
Note: For creating an export profile for data forwarding, there should only be one values table and
this load curve should be suitably configured, i.e. only one time stamp per measurement value,
standardised time axis and 15 minutes of data collection (see description for NNM
Export/EDIFACT Export).

Target
Allows for forwarding of the export data files to a target only applicable valid for this budget level.
A uniform export profile can thus be chosen for several budget levels with the data being
forwarded individually. Here it is possible, for example, to transmit automatically via FTP or email.

Note: If an Excel export file is selected, an Excel file is generated by VADEV, as standard
procedure. The latter, of course, can also be sent by FTP, if FTP data transmission is selected as the
target. For a description of the individual targets, please look up the description of the ASCII export.

Forward data of individual meters or sub-budget levels.

If selected, the individual meters belonging to a level are also accepted in the export. This should
be chosen, for example, in the case of forwarding to a supplier In the case of use as a virtual
meter point, this option should be switched off.
Forward data for the aggregated budget level.
If chosen, the aggregated budget level is forwarded, i.e. the addition and subtraction of the
individual meters which form part of it In order to identify the budget level in the export, a meter
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point designation must be added. This option should be chosen as a virtual meter point when, for
example, the budget level is used.

Fig. 12-4 Budget level meter point designation

Meter point designation

A meter point designation for the budget level may be entered here. This is necessary if a budget level
is used as a virtual meter point.

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12.1.2

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Meter point designation

By means of VV2 support, a meter point designation may be entered for every meter, in accordance with VV2.

Fig. 12-5 Meter point designation for meter

A description and meanings of the individual fields can be found in the VV2 directives.

12.1.3

Data aggregation action

The budget levels apply in the data aggregation action developed especially for them. In the course of
an aggregation, VADEV fulfils the following functions:

Aggregation of all the sub-levels

Totalling up the particular meters and sub-levels with factors.
Data export with the particular profiles
Data forwarding with the targets saved in the particular budget level
Saving the aggregated data in the database

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Please note that the data aggregation is recursive, i.e. if an upper level is aggregated, all the sub
levels are automatically aggregated with them. Ideally, therefore, only one level must be chosen, in
order to guarantee automatic data forwarding to all suppliers and contract partners.
The data aggregation action is available as soon as you select a budget level and select
Execute/Others

Fig. 12-6 Action: Aggregation

Only the period to be aggregated must be selected:

Fig. 12-6 Meter point designation for meter

Then aggregation, export and forwarding are automatic.

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12.1.4

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Example

The following example is provided, of using VV2 extensions for practical forwarding:

Fig. 12-7 Accounting grid example

This is indeed only a small example but it shows the efficiency of the facility for creating budget levels
in VADEV's VV2 support.

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12.2 Data archiving

Depending on the settings of readout cycles, large data volumes accumulate in the VADEV
database For capacity and execution reasons, it is advisable to remove from the database data which
are no longer required. As a practical upper limit, Microsoft specifies 2 gigabytes for an Access/MSDE
database. With a large number of meters, VADEV can reach this limit in a relatively short time. The
data are archived in a pre-specified file which can later be opened in VADEV as an archive file.
Note: The archived data may be opened with VADEV.
A data backup purely for backup and availability purposes must be created externally, i.e. outside the
VADEV application.
In order to perform a data archiving process, the Vadev Db-Tool program must be started in Start>Programs->NZR.

Fig. 12-8 Archive data

Now choose the database which you would like to use. Then click on Archive data.

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The following selection window appears:

Fig. 12-9 Data archiving settings

The following settings may be performed here:

Target file
The filename and save location for the archive must be specified here.

Data field
all data
This option must be chosen, in order to archive the VADEV database in full.
user-defined
This option must be chosen, in order to archive data from a specific period.

Optional

NZR

remove meter values

This option must be enabled in order to then remove the archived meter values. The
available free memory space in the VADEV database is thus increased.

compress database
After the meter values have been removed, the database file is not reduced physically,
i.e. it takes up exactly the same amount of memory on the hard disk as it did before. If
it is intended to free up additional memory on the hard disk, this option must be
enabled.

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In the extended settings, the following setting possibilities exist:

Fig. 12-10 Extended settings

Specify password for target file

This option must be enabled, in order to specify a password for the archive. Enter the same
password in both input fields. Confirm your entry by clicking Accept. This checks its validity.

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After you have performed all the settings and clicked OK, a status window appears, informing you of
the progress of the archiving process.

Fig. 12-11 Archiving/Backup

General
The set archive or backup parameters are displayed here.

Current action
Information on the progress of the current action is displayed in this field.

Messages
All the concluded operations and any errors which occurred are shown in the message
window.

12.3 Database conversion

As already mentioned, VADEV may be linked to two different database types. They can be either a
Microsoft Access or an MSDE (Microsoft Database Engine)/Microsoft SQL server database. MS
Accesss often makes a change to MS SQL server necessary, for example, (with no restriction on the
database size). With the conversion routine, the opportunity has been created to transfer the data from
the existing VADEV database to the newly set-up database, working from the VADEV application.
Notes: It is also possible to convert data from MS-SQL server to MS Access but this is only necessary
in rare cases.
For a conversion from MS Access to MSDE/MS SQL, an MSDE or MS SQL server must exist in your
system.

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In order to perform a data archiving process, the Vadev Db-Tool program must be started in Start>Programs->NZR.

Fig. 12-12 Convert database selection

Now choose the database which you would like to use. Then click "Convert database".

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The following settings may now be performed in the selection window:

Fig. 12-13 Conversion settings

Microsoft Access database

o

Filename
The filename and the save location for an access database which you wish to create
must be specified here.

Microsoft SQL server database

o

Name for the new database

The filename for an MSDE/MS SQL database which you wish to create must be
specified here.

Manually configure connection to the master database

In order to be able to create a new database, VADEV needs a valid connection to
the MS SQL server here. The specified settings must be checked in the first stage. For
this you must press the Test Settings button. If the connection cannot be
established, this box must be checked in order to manually establish the connection to
the master data base on the MS SQL or, in other words, to enter it manually.

Optional
o

Use new database in VADEV

This box must be checked if the new database is to be registered and used directly in
VADEV.

After you have performed all the settings and clicked OK, a status window appears, informing you of
the progress of the conversion process.

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Fig. 12-14 Conversion process

General
THE set archive or backup parameters are displayed here.

Current action
Information on the progress of the current action is displayed in this field.

Messages
All the concluded operations and any errors which occurred are shown in the message
window.

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12.4 Mobile data acquisition device ("MDE in German)

12.4.1

ActiveSync installation

The prerequisite for installing VADEV -CE is that the Microsoft ActiveSyn program is installed on
your computer. Please install Microsoft ActiveSync on your computer before you connect the MDE
device to it. The Microsoft ActiveSync program comes with your MDE device. Alternatively, you will

also find the program on the VADEV CD in the \VadevCE\Support\ActiveSync\ directory.

After ActiveSync has been installed, please connect your MDE device to the computer. ActiveSync
automatically recognises that a mobile device is connected and displays the following window:

Fig. 12-15 ActiveSync specify partnership

In the top window please select the guest partnership for simple data transfer between MDE device
and PC. Then click Continue.

Fig. 12-16 ActiveSync - main window

Now ActiveSync shows that a guest connection with the MDE device has been established.

Note: A connection between computer and MDE device is also indicated by the
line of your computer.
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page 194

VADEV-CE installation

In order to install VADEV on an MDE device, please proceed as follows:

Establish the connection to your MDE device via Microsoft ActiveSync

Insert the CD-ROM in your CD-ROM drive.

In the ..\VadevCE\ARMV4\ directory you will find installation programs for various mobile
operating systems. Please check precisely which operating system is installed on your MDE
device and then select the appropriate setup.

If there is already a previous VADEV installation on your MDE device, there is no need to
delete it. The existing version is simply updated.

After the installation's start screen, the first thing to appear is an information window on the VADEV
CE installation assistant:

Fig. 12-17 VADEV CE installation

Click OK to continue the installation. You are then requested to specify the installation location:

Fig. 12-18 VADEV CE installation - standard directory query

If you would like VADEV CE to be installed in the main memory, please answer Yes to the query.
For the main memory, the distinction is made between SDRAM and Flash-RAM. Unlike what happens
with SDRAM, the data in the Flash memory are not lost in the case of an inadequate power supply. If,
therefore, an SDRAM main memory is installed in your MDE device, you are recommended to use an
SD memory card, for example.
Further information on your devices main memory can be found in the documentation for it or
obtained from the manufacturer, by request.
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If you would like to install VADEV CE on an SD memory card, then click No and change the save
location in the following dialogue:

Fig. 12-19 VADEV CE installation - save location query

As target medium, please select the SD memory card (MMCSD) and then click OK. Now the
application is installed on your MDE device:

Fig. 12-20 VADEV CE installation - installation progress

With the instruction in the following window, you are asked to acknowledge the installation on your
MDE device. Now follow the steps described on the MDE device display.

Fig. 12-21 VADEV CE installation - transfer termination

Then acknowledge the message on your computer with OK. Now the installation is complete and you
can remove the CD from your CD-ROM drive again.
Now you can start VADEV on your MDE device from Start Menu, Programs->VADEV CE. Before
operating your MDE device, however, you must set it up in the VADEV control station.

12.4.3

Setting up MDE in the physical level

The MDE device represents another physical connection with the meter and for that reason it is also
set up directly in the physical level in My Computer.
This physical connecting path can now be directly configured in the VADEV software.

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For this purpose, firstly select the physical level for display by pressing the appropriate button
). Then, in a similar way to creating an organisational level, select the highest level, in
(
this case the My Computer level. As a first step, the MDE device must now be configured. This occurs
by making a selection with the right mouse button and the New/Others menu item, by pressing the
(

) icon or via the Edit menu.

Fig. 12-22 Physical setup

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The MDE connection connection object must be selected in the following selection window:

Fig. 12-23 Selection: MDE connection

For the MDE connection, you must now enter the name of the MDE device which was assigned during
its installation. This name is shown in MS ActiveSync.

Fig. 12-24 General MDE connection

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After the information has been confirmed, the MDE device now appears in the physical level and
meters may now be set up directly on the MDE structural element or already-existing meters or meter
groups may be moved to the MDE structural element.

Fig. 12-25 MDE structure

Any number of MDE devices may be set up, only it must be noted that the devices have different
names, in order to avoid any selection problems when it comes to synchronisation.

12.4.4

Synchronisation

By means of the synchronisation between the VADEV control station and the MDE devices, the
organisational and physical levels are transferred with the master data from the control station to the
device. After VADEV CE's initial installation, a synchronisation is necessary, in order to copy the
device database to the MDE device. It is thus also possible to set up meters on the MDE device. After
the reading with the MDE device, the data which have been read out are accepted in the control
station by means of the synchronisation and they are deleted in the MDE device. New meters are also
accepted in the control station.
In this process it is important that the VADEV program is closed in the MDE device as it is
otherwise impossible to access the data stock in the MDE device from the VADEV control station.
If the MDE device is now connected to the computer, the connection is firstly established via Microsoft
ActiveSync. After the internal data exchange has been completed between computer and MDE device
for other programs, the synchronisation may then be completed with VADEV.
Synchronisation is enabled in the control station via the View/MDE synchronisation menu item or by
pressing the (

NZR

) icon on the button bar.

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If you open MDE synchronisation, the following dialogue window appears:

Fig. 12-26 Synchronisation - import meter values

Please decide which synchronisation process is to be carried out.

Import meter values
-

New meters are transferred from the MDE device to the control station

Meter values are transferred from the MDE device to the control station

Meter values are deleted on the MDE device

Export meters
-

Master data(organisational/physical) are transferred to the MDE device

OBIS database is transferred to the MDE device

Depending on the licence, device database is created and transferred to the MDE device

For the import process, click Execute directly. All the messages are logged in the following window:

Fig. 12-27 Synchronisation - import process

Close this window if the operation has been terminated.

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For the export process, please select the Export meters option and then click Execute:

Fig. 12-28 Synchronisation - export meters

So that the export process may be successfully terminated, also select the appropriate MDE
connection for the MDE device:

Fig. 12-29 Synchronisation MDE connection selection

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Then click Select to continue the process. The individual synchronisation steps are displayed:

Fig. 12-30 Synchronisation - export process

Close this window if the operation has been terminated. The data are now available on the MDE
device.

12.4.5

VADEV-CE functional description

VADEV CE provides the following user interface to enable the various display options and reading
mechanisms:
Menleiste
Knopfleiste
Schnellstartleiste fr
Auslesung
Zeigt die Eigenschaften zum
angewhlten Objekt.
Zeigt die ausgelesenen
Werte des jeweils
angewhlten Zhlers.
Umschaltung der Ebenen.

Fig. 12-31 VADEV CE - view

Dieser Bildschirmbereich
zeigt jeweils die
organisatorische oder
physikalischen Ebenen an.

The VADEV CE user interface is based on the interface of the control station version, in order to
markedly reduce the user induction period. Navigating in the views is organised exactly as it is in the
VADEV control station version.
Because of the screen surface which is, however, markedly reduced and because of the reduced
performance capacity of the MDE devices, only the most important functions are available in the MDE
version.
These include the following:
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The meter base display; displayed either according to the organisational sequences (press
the icon

) or the physical sequences (press the icon

).

Open or delete objects (meters, COM ports etc.)

The display of the meter values read out, by pressing the icon
which the values for the selected meter are displayed.

The meter master data are read out, as a result of pressing the icon
. The properties
window of the chosen meter or object opens with the known information registers. The entries
may only be read and not changed.

Using the known functions, the readout actions can also be called in the VADEV CE
version:
read out meter account information (print the icon

. A window opens, in

),

read out specific values (OBIS selections) (print the icon

),

). The readout can be

check meters without saving the values (print the icon
executed for one meter in the VADEV CE version or a collective readout executed via
higher-level structural elements.
The listed functions can also be opened in the known way via the VADEV CE version's-menu bar.

12.4.6

Create objects

12.4.6.1

Organisational level

In order to create an organisational level, please select the higher organisational level under which a
new one is to be created.

Fig. 12-32 Select higher organisational level

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Then select File->New house from the menu

Fig. 12-33 Menu item file-> New house

Then the characteristics of the new level are shown as follows:

Fig. 12-35 Properties

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Enter the required inputs via the graphics keyboard and confirm your entries with OK. The created
level then appears in the organisational view:

Fig. 12-34 Created level

New meters can now be set up under the new level.

12.4.6.2

Set up port

In order to set up a new COM port, please firstly select the MDE object in the physical level:

Fig. 12-35 Select MDE object

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Then select File->New port from the menu.

Fig. 12-36 Menu item file-> New port

Then the properties are displayed as follows:

Fig. 12-37 New COM port - edit properties

Determine the number of the COM port. If you intend to read out the meters underneath via the
Bluetooth Infrared Adapter, enable the particular option. Confirm your specifications with OK.

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Fig. 12-38 New COM port set up

Under the new COM port, new lines or meters may be set up.

12.4.6.3

Set up line

A line serves to give the user the opportunity to create hierarchical structures in the physical level in
the same way as in the organisational level. This also contributes to clarity in the case of smaller
screens.
In order to set up a line, please select the particular COM port first of all:

Fig. 12-39 Select COM port

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Then select File->New line from the menu.

Fig. 12-40 Menu item file-> New line

Then the properties are displayed as follows:

Fig. 12-41 New line - edit properties

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Enter a suitable name for the new object and confirm your specifications by clicking OK. The created
object appears in the physical level:

Fig. 12-42 New line created

Now the meters can be set up under the new level

12.4.6.4

Set up meters

After both an organisational and a physical level have been prepared, suitable meters may now be
connected. In the example shown, an NZR DHZ meter is connected to COM-Port 2 under the L1
level.
A meter can be created both on the organisational and on the physical level and VADEV will then
automatically request allocation to the other particular level.
Select the higher-level object in the current view:

Fig. 12-43 Select higher level for new meter

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Then select File->New meter from the menu.

Fig. 12-44 Menu item file-> New meter

Next select the particular meter from the device database:

Fig. 12-45 Device specifications dialogue

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A level in the physical view has already been selected. Now follows the selection of the organisational
level. For this purpose, the following dialogue appears:

Fig. 12-46 Browser - organisational

Select the particular organisational level under which the new meter is to be added and then click
OK.

Fig. 12-47 Edit meter properties

Enter the name for the new meter.

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Fig. 12-48 Meter properties M-Bus parameters

The bus address is further specified on the M-Bus page. Other details may be supplemented if
necessary. Then click "OK".

Fig. 12-49 New meter set up

The new meter appears in the organisational and physical levels under previously specified levels.

12.4.7

Time setting

VADEV CE uses the MDE device's local system time in order to generate, for example, the time
stamps for current values. On saving, the local time is converted to the absolute UTC time. That is why
it is absolutely necessary for not only the time and date, but also the time zone, to be correctly set.

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Fig. 12-50 Time setting - Windows Mobile version

Fig. 12-51 Time setting - Windows CE version

12.4.8

Data retrieval via a serial interface

After the meter master data have been transferred to the MDE device or via the synchronisation
process, you are able to start your mobile readout.
Your MDE device has one or more interfaces for data transfer. A connection cable with an RS 232
socket can be connected to an interface of this type. You can obtain this connection cable as an
accessory for your MDE device in a specialist computer shop or from NZR.
You connect the RS 232 socket via an RS 232 coupling plug, for example, to the RS232 interface on
the M-Bus level converter or to the D-Bus output stage.
After the interfaces have been connected, please start the VADEV CE program and firstly select the
level which contains the meters for reading. This may be an organisational level (e.g., district,
residential street or house), or a physical level (e.g., output stage or level converter, etc.). Then please
choose the meter for reading and press the icon of the readout function you desire (account
information

, specific values

or check meter

).

The log window opens, in which you can observe the readout process. You can abort a readout in
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progress at any point by typing Abort and the meter data already read are not saved. After the readout
has been performed successfully, you can confirm the window with OK and the meter data are
accepted in the database.

Fig. 12-52 MDE log readout

The meters read are shown in bold in the organisational and physical levels. If the meter has not been
accessed during the readout, it remains in plain type. Before the reading, you can remove the meter
values in the level to be read out, in order to identify immediately afterwards the meters which were
not accessed.
If all the meters have been read out, you can accept the meter data in the VADEV control station, via
the synchronisation process.

12.4.9

Calling data via the Bluetooth Infrared Adapter

Bluetooth is an industry standard product originally developed by Ericsson in the 1990s, in accordance
with IEEE 802.15.1m, for wireless networking of devices over a short distance. Current MDE devices
are generally equipped with this technology and thus provide the opportunity for wireless
communication with a Bluetooth Infrared Adapter.
The adapter is incorporated through Windows and is assigned an input and an output COM port. Via
the output COM port, VADEV CE can communicate in exactly the same way as via a normal serial
interface.
The procedure for incorporating a Bluetooth device depends on the operating system and is therefore
not described here. You will find information on this in the documentation for your device.

Fig. 12-53 Bluetooth Infrared Adapter

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If you would like to perform a readout with the Bluetooth Infrared Adapter, please proceed as follows
Connect the adapter to a D0 interface and switch on the latter.
Incorporate the adapter through Windows.
Specify the set output COM port in VADEV CE. Enable the "Bluetooth Infrared Adapter option
(see illustration below).
Then start the readout.

Fig. 12-54 Select input Bluetooth COM port

Communication via Optokopf

As an option, the M-Bus meter for the ZVEI reactivation signal may be enabled here for the visual
readout. For reasons of saving energy, the meter checks its D0 interface for an incoming reactivation
signal only for a short time. The actual communication begins after the waiting time, specified in
milliseconds. Setting the waiting time is extremely critical and can vary with the meter. What is more,
the type of visual probe used is also important. Our values, determined through experience, are
33,000 ms for the Bluetooth Infrared Adapter and 20 ms for the standard Optokopf with serial
connection.

12.4.10

Calling data via the wireless modem

A special MDE device equipped with wireless modem is provided by NZR for wireless reading. For the
readout, please set COM Port 5 in VADEV CE (see illustration). Further settings are not necessary.

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Fig. 12-55 Select COM port for the wireless modem

As an option, NZR can provide a wireless modem as a separate device, as a USB or Bluetooth
version. You can thus use nearly all mobile devices with Windows Mobile operating system and
Bluetooth Interface and are no longer tied to a specific device.

Fig. 12-56 NZR Bluetooth wireless modem (DFM-433)

12.4.11

Values view

The values view displays in a table the values of meters which have been read. You can specify the
type of values via the View->Values in View menu item. You have the following options to choose
from:
All values
Current values
Manual reset values
Load profile
If the option is changed, the table is updated with corresponding values.

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Fig. 12-57 VadevCE values view

The values view provides you with the additional opportunity of creating or editing a selected value. To
do this, select the Edit-> Edit meter value menu item. The following dialogue appears:

Fig. 12-58 Values view - edit meter value

Now specify a new value and then click OK. The input value is then saved and displayed in the table.

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If you would like to create a meter value, delete any existing selection in the values table and then go
to Edit-> Edit meter value The dialogue for editing a value appears. In addition to the new value,
specify the particular OBIS value and the time stamp in the dialogue.

Fig. 12-59 Values view - set up meter value

Then click OK to save the new value.

12.5 M-BUS output stage

In order to incorporate an M-Bus output stage in VADEV, a physical connection (COM port, Ethernet
or modem) is firstly required. Follow the steps outlined in Chapter 5.8.2 Creating physical levels, to
create a connection of this type. Select a level in the physical level and then go to New-> Others->MBus Output Stage.

Fig. 12-60 M-Bus output stage selection

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Then confirm the selection with OK, to edit the properties.

M-Bus repeater

Fig. 12-61 Device options selection

Properties
Name: When a name is entered, the output stage can be sorted in the levels
Overwrite M-Bus device options
Type of readout: Here, M-Bus devices may be addressed by a primary or secondary
address.
Baud rate
Timeout [ms]
Repeat attempts

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General

Fig. 12-62 Scanning options selection

Scanning options
Primary or secondary: When the scan option is selected, the following options can also be
generated.
o Scan manufacturer, medium and version with same secondary address
o Fast backward scan (wildcards may be set as an option)
Manufacturer (specify here the three-character manufacturer code for the secondary
address).

Note: It is normally optional to specify the manufacturer code. With

Kamstrup, however, the KAM manufacturer's tag must always be quoted.
Medium

Version

devices from

The baud rate must be set in each case

12.5.1

Export is possible via a text, Excel or XML file

M-Bus scan routine

The M-Bus scan routine was introduced in order to search for meters. In this process, all the possible
addresses, primary or secondary, are checked. The meters identified are then saved in an export log.
Proceed as follows, if you wish to perform an M-Bus scan routine. First select the M-Bus output stage
in the physical view. Using the right mouse button, open the context menu and then the Execute->
Others-> M-Bus scan routine menu item.

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Fig. 12-65 Action: Scan routine selection

Confirm with OK and the meter data are saved to the specified path. The scan routine, can, however,
last for a few minutes.
On the basis of the export, the meter data can be viewed and printed after an M-Bus scan routine, in
the form of a text, Excel or XLP file.

12.6 Import action

An import action may be executed, in order to generate meters from an XLS file to VADEV. Proceed
as follows, to execute an import action. With My Computer and the right mouse button and then
Execute->Others... the following types of action can be imported.

import action for D-Bus meters

import action for wireless meters
import action for IEC1107 meters
import action for LON meters
import action for M-Bus meters
import action for synthetic load profile meters

Fig. 12-66 Action: Selection for meters

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After you have clicked the appropriate import action, a format template is required for importing the
meters. You will find this template in the drive where you have configured the VADEV. You open the
NZR directory in Programs -> Vadev -> Import Template. In this XLS file, you can edit the meter data
in order to import them to VADEV.

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13 Future extensions
VADEV has been created from the ground up under the condition that it not only meets the current
requirements of a remote meter reading system but also supports future extensions by its modular
architecture. The following functions in particular may be extended easily and effectively.

13.1 Support for other meters and protocols

Incorporating other protocols which are also very different in type and function from the traditional
serial protocols, such as future conceivable TCP/IP und WEB-based meter readings, may be
supported in VADEV by suitable drivers. VADEV is by no means tied to serial data transfer but
permits practically all types of data acquisition by means of its modular core.

13.2 Support for other export formats

The definition of export profiles and values tables represents a general approach to data export. Other
formats such as XML-based exports are conceivable.

13.3 Other extensions

On the basis of its architecture, VADEV is designed as a constantly developing system which is
further developed above all by the recommendations and suggestions of its users during daily
operation. We would be happy to implement your comments, requests and suggestions for
improvement in one of the upcoming versions, in order to make working with VADEV even more
effective. We are pleased to receive your suggestions to the following e-mail address: [email protected].

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14 VADEV device database

14.1 Supported protocols
The following protocols are supported by VADEV:

IEC1107
D-BUS (NZR)
M-BUS
Lonworks
Wireless (NZR)
FNP (Grlitz)
LIS 200 (Elster)
Digital Interface for Gas Devices (DSFG in German)

14.2 Supported devices

Manufacturer-specific

Wireless (NZR)

D-BUS (NZR)

LIS200 (Elster)

NZR

FNP (Grlitz)

Cynox
Datenimport
Dr. Neuhaus

W
K
K
G
W
E
E
K
K
K
K
I
I
E
I

IEC1107

Aquametro

X
X
X

DSFG

Allmess

E
E
K
K
I

Lonworks

AEG

AEM500
DZ+
ICM heat meter F3/F4
SENSYCAL
Sparklog
Load Curve Meter
Allmess
CF Echo II
CF55
Corus
Cyble
LZ96
T2M
Integral-MK MaXX
Integral-MK Multisensor
CALEC ST
CALEC MB
AMBUS IS 2
M-Count
RWE Load Profile
ZDUE MOD Pulse Input

M-BUS

Actaris

Device Name

Medium

Manufacturer
ABB

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

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X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

Manufacturer-specific

X
X

Wireless (NZR)

D-BUS (NZR)

K
G

LIS200 (Elster)

NZR

G
E
E
I
G
G
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
G
G
I
E
E
E
E
E
E
W
W

FNP (Grlitz)

Instromet
Iskra

E
I
I

IEC1107

Heliowatt
HYD

DSFG

Grlitz
Gossen/Berg

Lonworks

EMU
FLOW COMP

M-BUS

EMH

Device Name
MM30
Elster Data Logger DL210
Elster Data Logger DL220(W)
Elster Data Logger DL240
Elster EK260
Elster A1350
Elster A1500
Pulse Input DM Series
Instromet 555-1107
BK-G Encoder
DMTZ
LZKJ E-Series
LZKJ F-Series
LZKJ G-Series
LZKJ Compressed Load Curve
LZM
LZM I-Series
LZMD
LZMF
LZMJ
LZQJ E-Series
LZQJ G-Series
LZQM
STMJ
VDEW
EMU32.xx
Gas-Net Z0
Gas-Net Z1
ENC 400(e)
BLO
BLOi
U1389
U1187-U1189
U1681...U1689
LZ96
Scampy Cold Water
FLYPPER
Sharky 773
Instromet555 1107
MT 851

Medium

Manufacturer
DZG
Elster

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Manufacturer-specific

NZR

Wireless (NZR)

Sontex

D-BUS (NZR)

Sensus
Schlumberger
Siemens

LIS200 (Elster)

RMG

FNP (Grlitz)

NZR

IEC1107

Littwin
Minol

DSFG

Landis+Gyr

Lonworks

L+G
L+S

W
W
K
E
E
K
K
K
K
K
K
E
E
I
K
K
K
K
K

M-BUS

Janitza
Kamstrup

Device Name
Pulse Module S
Pulsonic II M-BUS
Sensonic Heat Meter
UMG 505
KM 382 Electricity Meter
Multical 401
Multical 601
Multical 66C
WSD Heat Meter
Pollu therm
WSF3D Heat Meter
LGZ
LZ96
CCL210
F3/4
Pulse Module P2
Minocal WR2
Ultrasound 2WR5
Heat Meter C2
D-BUS Parameterisation meter
Dialog Heat Meter
DHZ
EHKV
ISM Pulse Module
Modularis Water Meter
EHZ
FHZ
IC-LON-10
IC-LON-2
IZ-LON
SEM16-S
NDWH
MRG 910
MRG 2200
PolluCom E (M-Bus)
DC33
2WR5 Heat Meter
7E 62/63
LZ96
MAX
WFC 21
Supercal 555/556
Supercal 539

Medium

Manufacturer
Ista

page 225

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

K
E
K
I
W
E
E
I
I
W
E
E
G
G
K
E
K
E
E
E
W
K
K

X
X

X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

VADEV User Manual

Manufacturer-specific

Wireless (NZR)

D-BUS (NZR)

LIS200 (Elster)

FNP (Grlitz)

IEC1107

NZR

X
X
X

DSFG

Designation
Electricity
Heat
Water
Gas
Pulse Memory Module

W
K
K

Lonworks

Medium
E
K
W
G
I

Trox
Virtuelle Zhler

M-BUS

Wackenhut

Device Name
Wasserzhler 580
Pollu Therm
Pollux N501
NetCom LON-WA5/B
Arithmetic Load Curve
Synthetic Load Curve
Pulse Meter

Medium

Manufacturer
Sontex
Spx

page 226

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X
X

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15 Basic configuration
The basic configuration should give the user or administrator the opportunity to adapt global settings
for VADEV. Depending on the version, various settings are possible. Under Start->Programs->NZR
corresponding links are saved, depending on the version:

Vadev configuration
(Basic configuration for the VADEV single-user version)
VADEV client configuration
(Basic configuration for the VADEV client)
VADEV server configuration (Basic configuration for the VADEV server)

15.1 Path data

In the path data, all the databases which VADEV uses are shown and can be individually configured.
These settings are usually established during installation. If, however, you wish to edit these settings,
select Path data.

Fig. 15-1 Basic configuration - path data

VADEV database
The VADEV database is the application's main database.
Templates database (devices database)
The templates database contains the device templates and is regularly updated by NZR.
Export profile database
All the configured profiles are saved in the database for export profiles.
Export profiles database (templates)
This database is regularly updated by NZR. In the case of an update, the templates are
automatically accepted in the main database for export profiles.

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OBIS database
This database is regularly updated by NZR. In the case of an update, the changes are
automatically accepted in the VADEV database.
User database
This database saves all the VADEV users.

15.2 DCOM (client/server version)

Communication between the VADEV client and the VADEV server is via DCOM. It is Microsofts
variant of a model which makes it possible for various applications to collaborate across the computer
borders. Some time ago, when security gaps became known in DCOM and were specifically exploited,
Microsoft found itself compelled to remedy these faults. That is why the tightened regulations apply,
with Service Pack 2 for Windows XP and Service Pack 1 for Windows 2003. As a result of this, some
system adjustments must be made, depending on the operating system, so that DCOM grants the
connection requests of other computers. The best possible configuration of the system is normally
carried out during installation.
If you select DCOM security, the following window appears.

Fig. 15-2 DCOM security

Security level

Low (no authentication)

This level is set during installation. This setting makes working with the VADEV client
possible for the following users:
o
o
o

users of Windows 98,

users of a local account on an NT-based system (2000/XP/2003/Vista).
users who log in under a domain on an NT-based system (2000/XP/2003/Vista).

high (integrated Windows NT security)

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with this setting, only users who have logged in on an NT-based system
(2000/XP/2003/Vista) under a domain may work with the VADEV client.

Note: The DCOM basic configuration must match the server computer's DCOM basic configuration on
all the client computers. Otherwise connection problems may occur.

15.3 Firewall (client/server version)

Since Windows XP with Service Pack 2, Windows 2003 with Service Pack 1 and Vista, Microsoft has
been including an integrated firewall as standard. So that the communication between the client and
the server works, the VADEV client must be allowed as an exception and the DCOM/RPC port
(Number 135) must be opened. This also applies to other firewalls installed on the computer. Another
option is to disable the computer completely. The following settings are automatically established
during installation:

Fig. 15-3 Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall enabled

If the firewall is enabled, the following settings must be established:

Allow exceptions
Allow VADEV as an exception
Open DCOM/RPC ports automatically

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16 Client/Server
16.1 Installation
For the VADEV Client/Server version, a separate installation package is provided on a CD-ROM. In
the case of the standard installation, only the VADEV client is installed on the computer. For the
installation of the VADEV server, additional components must be selected during the installation
process.
Note: It is recommended to close all open documents before the installation and to exit all running
programs.
In order to begin installation, please insert the CD-ROM in the drive and start the setup program:

Fig. 16-1 Client/Server - installation

Then click Continue.

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Fig. 16-2 User information - installation

You are requested to enter your user and company names. Decide on the person for whom this
application is to be installed and then click Continue.

Fig. 16-2 Installation - specify target directory

Now specify the target directory. Usually the standard directory is already specified.

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In the next window, all the available components are displayed:

Fig. 16-4 Installation - component selection

VADEV client
VADEV client installation is always enabled.

VADEV server
Select this setting to install the VADEV server.
Dongle driver
Installs the dongle driver. The latter is necessary for the first installation.
Set up SQL server database
Sets up an SQL server database and registers it in the VADEV system.
The prerequisite for this option is that you have already installed and configured an
instance (MSSQLSERVER) of the SQL server. There is a free version of the SQL server
(MSDE 2000) on the CD-ROM. It is recommended that you operate the VADEV server in
conjunction with an SQL server. Reliable collaboration with other databases cannot be
guaranteed.

Adobe Acrobat Reader

Acrobat Reader installation. Select this option if you do not yet have a PDF reader.

After you have selected the components, click Continue.

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Fig. 16-5 Start installation

Start the installation by clicking Install once.

Fig. 16-6 Installation - progress

The setup program automatically executes all the installation steps and displays information on the
finished installation process at the end.

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Fig. 16-7 Installation terminated

In individual cases, it can happen that you are asked to restart the system.
After the VADEV server has been installed, check the installation by starting VADEV Service
Manager and checking that the service is enabled:

Fig. 16-1 VADEV server installation - check

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16.2 User login

The following details are required for the user login:

Fig.Fig. 16-2 User login

Username
Enter your username here.
Password
Enter your password here.
Server
Here you must specify the name of the computer on which the VADEV server is installed.
Save password
Enable this option if you wish to save the password. The next time you log on, the saved password will
be used automatically.
Login
Starts the login process.
Close
Closes the window.
Advanced
All the information for the login process is displayed under Advanced.

16.3 VADEV administrator

The VADEV administrator is automatically set up during the installation with the username va and
the password va. It is recommended that you change the password after installation.
Generally speaking, the administrator has all the necessary rights and can set up, edit or delete the
users via User Administration (see Chapter 16.4).

16.4 User Administration

The User Administration gives you the opportunity to display and edit the VADEV users. Only users
with administrator rights have access to User Administration.
Fig. 16-10 User Administration
displays the User Administration interface. All the users saved in the database are listed in the table.
The Group column shows the user group to which the user is assigned (see Chapter Fehler!
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Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden werden.). In addition to the login name, first name and
surname, the creation date is given in the last column.

Fig. 16-10 User Administration

New user
Opens a window for entering the data of a new user.
Adapt user
Opens a window for editing the data of an existing user.
Note: The administrator is able to overwrite the user's password. The password is not displayed in
plain text.
Delete user
Deletes a user from the database.
User groups
Opens a window for editing the user groups (see Chapter 16.5)

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16.5 User groups

VADEV provides the opportunity of dividing the users into groups with special authorisations. New
and existing users can be assigned to any group, as desired. There are four fixed groups which
cannot be changed:
Administrators
Full authorisation
Advanced users
-set up meter, modem etc. (organisational, physical and accounting grid level)
-create and change export profiles
-delete protocol
-data import
Users
-execute exports
-read meters
-diagrammatic measurement display including mathematical operations (no ASCII export)
Guest
-view measurements
-execute exports
ball and often
If a user is given special rights, a new user group may be set up.
To add a new user group, click User groups in the User Administration. Then the following
dialogue is displayed:

Fig. 16-3 User groups

Click New here. In the following dialogue, the name of the user group and the authorisations must
be specified, as for Fig. 16-4 Add/Edit user group
.

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Fig. 16-4 Add/Edit user group

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16.6 VADEV Service Manager

The VADEV Service Manager is a tool which supports the work with the VADEV server. The
VADEV server is executed as a service in Windows and remains invisible to the user. The service
may be started, stopped and terminated by the VADEV Service Manager. Suitable protocol entries
for the service may also be quickly displayed.
After startup, the Service Manager is added to the Windows taskbar. The menu may be opened with
the right mouse button, as shown in Fig. 16-5 VADEV Service Manager - menu
.

Fig. 16-5 VADEV Service Manager - menu

When you click on Options, the following window appears:

Fig. 16-6 VADEV Service Manager - options

Update interval
Specify here the intervals at which the display is to be updated.
Automatic start on login
If you enable this setting, the VADEV Service Manager starts automatically when the user logs in.

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Fig. 16-7 VADEV Service Manager - main window

The following may be set in the main window:

Server
Enter here the name of the computer on which the VADEV server is run.
Service
After the server name has been entered, the VADEV server service is listed here. Otherwise you
receive an error message.
Start service
Causes Windows to start the service.
Stop service
Causes Windows to stop the service.
Note: With VADEV server, Stop stops the automatic action execution. The server itself remains
active.
Terminate service
Causes Windows to terminate the service.

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To display protocol entries for the VADEV server service, select the Event display field. The
following window appears:

Fig. 16-8 VADEV Service Manager - event display

Messages of various types are shown in the list. In the case of error messages, execution of the
server is not guaranteed. If possible, the warning messages should be checked for the cause and
dealt with immediately.

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17 List of Illustrations
Fig. 3-1 VADEV SQL Server configuration possibilities ....................................................................... 9
Fig. 4-3 User and company names ....................................................................................................... 12
Fig. 4-4 Target directory selection ......................................................................................................... 13
Fig. 4-5 Selection of software features: ................................................................................................. 14
Fig. 5-1 Licence not found ..................................................................................................................... 16
Fig. 5-3 Database type selection ........................................................................................................... 19
Fig. 5-4 Data linking provider................................................................................................................. 20
Fig. 5-5 Data linking server.................................................................................................................... 21
Fig. 5-6 Test connection ........................................................................................................................ 21
Fig. 5-7 Physical level............................................................................................................................ 22
Fig. 5-8 Organisational level .................................................................................................................. 23
Fig. 5-9 Opening house/block................................................................................................................ 24
Fig. 5-10 Opening house/block > General ............................................................................................ 25
Fig. 5-11 Opening house/block > Images/icons .................................................................................... 25
Fig. 5-12 Opening house/block > Installation ........................................................................................ 26
Fig. 5-13 Transfer of information - organisational ................................................................................. 26
Fig. 5-14 Opening house/block > Actions ............................................................................................. 27
Fig. 5-15 Opening modem ..................................................................................................................... 28
Fig. 5-16 Modem -> General ................................................................................................................. 28
Fig. 5-17 Opening modem > Extended ................................................................................................. 29
Fig. 5-18 Opening phone number ......................................................................................................... 30
Fig. 5-19 Opening modem > General .................................................................................................... 30
Fig. 5-20 Opening modem > Extended ................................................................................................. 31
Fig. 5-21 Setting up modem to modem connection .............................................................................. 31
Fig. 5-22 Select connection ................................................................................................................... 32
Fig. 5-23 Dr. Neuhaus meter modem configuration .............................................................................. 32
Fig. 5-24 Dr. Neuhaus meter modem configuration .............................................................................. 33
Fig. 5-25 Opening new meters .............................................................................................................. 34
Fig. 5-26 Device type selection ............................................................................................................. 34
Fig. 5-27 Modem configuration > General ............................................................................................. 35
Fig. 5-28 Modem configuration > Installation ........................................................................................ 35
Fig. 5-29 Modem configuration > General ............................................................................................. 36
Fig. 5-30 Meter configuration > Comment ............................................................................................. 36
Fig. 5-31 Meter configuration > OBIS values ........................................................................................ 37
Fig. 5-32 Meter configuration > Table selection .................................................................................... 37
Fig. 5-33 Meter configuration > IEC 1107 protocol ............................................................................... 38
Fig. 5-34 Meter configuration > Actions ................................................................................................ 39
Fig. 5-35 Meter configuration > Substitute value creation ..................................................................... 39
Fig. 5-36 Meter at physical level ............................................................................................................ 40
Fig. 5-37 Meter at organisational level .................................................................................................. 40
Fig. 5-38 Check meter ........................................................................................................................... 41
Fig. 5-39 Display of values .................................................................................................................... 42
Fig. 5-40 Manual input of values Change value .................................................................................... 44
Fig. 5-41 Manual input of values: Add value ......................................................................................... 44
Fig. 5-42 Value table: Raw data set ...................................................................................................... 45
Fig. 5-43 Raw data set display .............................................................................................................. 45
Fig. 5-44 Graph display structure .......................................................................................................... 46
Fig. 5-45 OBIS index selection .............................................................................................................. 47
Fig. 5-46 Colour/time delay selection .................................................................................................... 47
Fig. 5-47 Colour/time delay selection .................................................................................................... 48
Fig. -48 Selection of specific time ranges.............................................................................................. 48
Fig. 5-49 Daily values display ................................................................................................................ 49
Fig. 5-51 Editing graph .......................................................................................................................... 51
Fig. 5-52 Meter search view .................................................................................................................. 52
Fig. 5-53 Search criteria setting ............................................................................................................ 52
Fig. 5-55 Protocol information display ................................................................................................... 54
Fig. 5-56 Meter reading extended ...................................................................................................... 55
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Fig. 5-57 Meter configuration................................................................................................................. 56

Fig. 5-59 Dialogue readout .................................................................................................................... 57
Fig. 5-61 Action type selection .............................................................................................................. 58
Fig. 5-63 Meter configuration by automatic actions .............................................................................. 59
Fig. 5-64 Data tables by automatic actions ........................................................................................... 60
Fig. 5-66 Validity period ......................................................................................................................... 61
Fig. 5-67 Physical allocation .................................................................................................................. 62
Fig. 6-1 VADEV export structure ........................................................................................................ 63
Fig. 6-2 Export profiles overview ........................................................................................................... 64
Fig. 6-3 Excel export profile selection ................................................................................................... 65
Fig. 6-4 Edit export profile ..................................................................................................................... 65
Fig. 6-5 Target file selection .................................................................................................................. 66
Fig. 6-6 Excel general............................................................................................................................ 67
Fig. 6-7 Value table general .................................................................................................................. 68
Fig. 6-8 OBIS selection.......................................................................................................................... 69
Fig. 6-11 Excel-specific settings ............................................................................................................ 72
Fig. 6-12 Excel header .......................................................................................................................... 73
Fig. 6-13 ASCII export profile configuration possibilities ....................................................................... 74
Fig. 6-14 ASCII export profile selection ................................................................................................. 74
Fig. 6-15 General ASCII export profile .................................................................................................. 75
Fig. 6-16 ASCII target ............................................................................................................................ 75
Fig. 6-17 Configuration of the value table: ............................................................................................ 76
Fig. 6-18 ASCII format driver Network usage manager (EAM) ............................................................. 77
Fig. 6-19 Suggestion for NNM value table general ............................................................................... 78
Fig. 6-20 NNM value table time axis suggestion ................................................................................... 78
Fig. 6-21 MSCONS export profile .......................................................................................................... 79
Fig. 6-22 Selection: EDIFACT export (MSCONS 2.1) ........................................................................... 80
Fig. 6-23 EDIFACT/MSCONS driver configuration ............................................................................... 80
Fig. 6-25 MSCONS 2.1g application reference ..................................................................................... 83
Fig. 6-26 OBIS index selection .............................................................................................................. 84
Fig. 6-27 OBIS configuration/line-based format .................................................................................... 85
Fig. 6-28 Filename configuration ........................................................................................................... 87
Fig. 6-29 FTP server configuration ........................................................................................................ 88
Fig. 6-30 FTP target file ......................................................................................................................... 89
Fig. 6-31 email configuration ................................................................................................................. 90
Fig. 6-33 email file attachment .............................................................................................................. 92
Fig. 6-34 Available export profiles ......................................................................................................... 93
Fig. 6-36 Actions list .............................................................................................................................. 94
Fig. 6-38 Export file selection ................................................................................................................ 96
Fig. 7-1 Control modem selection ......................................................................................................... 98
Fig. 7-2 Extended modem settings ........................................................................................................ 99
Fig. 7-3 Creating phone-number level ................................................................................................. 100
Fig. 7-5 Phone-number level extended ............................................................................................... 101
Fig. 7-6 Dr. Neuhaus modem parameterisation options ..................................................................... 102
Fig. 7-7 Current loop switch................................................................................................................. 103
Fig. 7-8 Obligatory parameterisation action ........................................................................................ 104
Fig. 7-9 Communication parameter selection...................................................................................... 104
Fig. 7-10 Dr. Neuhaus pulse input ....................................................................................................... 105
Fig. 7-11 Pulse input settings .............................................................................................................. 106
Fig. 7-12 ZDUe pulse meter selection ................................................................................................. 107
Fig. 7-13 Pulse meter settings ............................................................................................................. 107
Fig. 7-14 Elster DM selection .............................................................................................................. 109
Fig. 7-15 Elster DM general settings ................................................................................................... 109
Fig. 7-16 Elster DM .............................................................................................................................. 110
Fig. 7-17 Elster DM modem type selection ......................................................................................... 111
Fig. 7-18 Parameterise Elster DM ....................................................................................................... 112
Fig. 7-19 Parameterisation options ..................................................................................................... 113
Fig. 7-20 Pulse data configuration ....................................................................................................... 114
Fig. 7-21 Protocol settings ................................................................................................................... 115
Fig. 7-22 Elster DM structure............................................................................................................... 116
Fig. 7-23 Select modem ...................................................................................................................... 117
Fig. 7-24 Extended modem settings .................................................................................................... 118
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Fig. 7-25 Br UniMod parameterisation .............................................................................................. 119

Fig. 7-26 Setting up Wackenhut IMOD 24 VE ..................................................................................... 120
Fig. 7-27 IMOD24 VE communication paths ....................................................................................... 120
Fig. 7-28 Pulse meter settings ............................................................................................................. 121
Fig. 7-29 Wackenhut IMOD24 VE basic parameterisation.................................................................. 122
Fig. 7-30 Wackenhut parameterisation options ................................................................................... 122
Fig. 7-31 Wackenhut load curve channel selection ............................................................................. 123
Fig. 7-32 Modem level extended settings ............................................................................................ 124
Fig. 7-33 Phone-number level extended settings ................................................................................ 124
Fig. 7-34 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem selection ............................................................................... 125
Fig. 7-35 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem settings ................................................................................. 125
Fig. 7-36 ENERCOM 400 FNP structure ............................................................................................. 126
Fig. 7-37 ENERCOM 400 FNP structure ............................................................................................. 127
Fig. 7-38 ENC400(E) pulse data ......................................................................................................... 128
Fig. 7-39 ENERCOM 400 FNP modem structure................................................................................ 129
Fig. 7-40 LON connection selection .................................................................................................... 130
Fig. 7-41 Selection of existing LON LNS project with interface........................................................... 131
Fig. 7-42 LON connection.................................................................................................................... 132
Fig. 7-43 Actaris Sparkline parameterisation ...................................................................................... 133
Fig. 7-45 Parameterisation options ..................................................................................................... 134
Fig. 7-46 General device ..................................................................................................................... 135
Fig. 7-47 Icon selection ....................................................................................................................... 136
Fig. 7-48 Virtual connection selection ................................................................................................. 137
Fig. 7-49 Device database: Virtual meters .......................................................................................... 138
Fig. 7-50 User profile: .......................................................................................................................... 138
Fig. 7-51 User profile factor: ................................................................................................................ 139
Fig. 7-52 Device database: Virtual meters .......................................................................................... 139
Fig. 7-53 Value calculation .................................................................................................................. 140
Fig. 7-54 Value calculation: Edit index ................................................................................................ 141
Fig. 7-55 Value calculation: Link ......................................................................................................... 142
Fig. 7-56 Value calculation: Index added ............................................................................................ 143
Fig. 7-57 Individual initialisation .......................................................................................................... 144
Fig. 7-58 Individual initialisation .......................................................................................................... 144
Fig. 7-59 Settings for individual initialisation ....................................................................................... 145
Fig. 8-1 IEC1107 protocol settings ...................................................................................................... 146
Fig. 8-2 D-BUS protocol settings ......................................................................................................... 149
Fig. 8-3 M-BUS protocol settings ........................................................................................................ 150
Fig. 8-4 M-BUS communication parameters ....................................................................................... 151
Fig. 8-5 LON-BUS protocol settings .................................................................................................... 152
Fig. 8-6 NZR wireless protocol settings ............................................................................................... 153
Fig. 8-7 DSfG output stage on the physical level ................................................................................ 154
Fig. 8-8 DSfG output stage .................................................................................................................. 155
Fig. 8-9 DSfG output stage configuration ............................................................................................ 155
Fig. 8-10 DSfG-Bus scan action .......................................................................................................... 156
Fig. 8-11 Protocolled DSfG-Bus scan action ....................................................................................... 156
Fig. 8-12 Settings for the DSfG instance ............................................................................................. 157
Fig. 8-13 DSfG device serial number .................................................................................................. 158
Fig. 8-14 DSfG table selection ............................................................................................................ 159
Fig. 8-15 Import raw data file ............................................................................................................... 160
Fig. 8-16 Import raw data .................................................................................................................... 161
Fig. 8-17 Substitute value creation in general ..................................................................................... 162
Fig. 9-1 D-BUS faults analysis ............................................................................................................ 165
Fig. 9-2 M-BUS faults analysis ............................................................................................................ 166
Fig. 9-3 IEC1107 meter faults analysis ............................................................................................... 167
Fig. 10-1 Menu file ............................................................................................................................... 169
Fig. 10-2 Menu file (Client/server version) .......................................................................................... 169
Fig. 10 10-3 Download file from server - selection window ................................................................. 170
Fig. 10-4 Download file from server specify target directory and file ............................................... 170
Fig. 10-5 Edit menu ............................................................................................................................. 171
Fig. 10-6 Edit new menu .................................................................................................................. 171
Fig. 10-7 Execute menu ...................................................................................................................... 172
Fig. 10-8 Export menu ......................................................................................................................... 173
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Fig. 10-9 View menu............................................................................................................................ 173

Fig. 10-10 User settings -general ........................................................................................................ 174
Fig. 10-11 User settings - extended .................................................................................................... 175
Fig. 10-12 User settings - quick start bar ............................................................................................ 176
Fig. 10-13 User menu .......................................................................................................................... 176
Fig. 10-14 Help menu .......................................................................................................................... 176
Fig. 11-1 Licence information: ............................................................................................................. 178
Fig. 12-1 Accounting grid..................................................................................................................... 179
Fig. 12-2 General budget level ............................................................................................................ 180
Fig. 12-3 Budget level data forwarding ................................................................................................ 181
Fig. 12-4 Budget level meter point designation ................................................................................... 182
Fig. 12-5 Meter point designation for meter ........................................................................................ 183
Fig. 12-7 Meter point designation for meter ........................................................................................ 184
Fig. 12-8 Accounting grid example ...................................................................................................... 185
Fig. 12-9 Archive data ......................................................................................................................... 186
Fig. 12-10 Data archiving settings ....................................................................................................... 187
Fig. 12-11 Extended settings ............................................................................................................... 188
Fig. 12-12 Archiving/Backup................................................................................................................ 189
Fig. 12-13 Convert database selection ................................................................................................ 190
Fig. 12-14 Conversion settings ............................................................................................................ 191
Fig. 12-15 Conversion process ........................................................................................................... 192
Fig. 12-16 ActiveSync specify partnership ....................................................................................... 193
Fig. 12-17 ActiveSync - main window ................................................................................................. 193
Fig. 12-18 VADEV CE installation .................................................................................................... 194
Fig. 12-19 VADEV CE installation - standard directory query .......................................................... 194
Fig. 12-20 VADEV CE installation - save location query .................................................................. 195
Fig. 12-21 VADEV CE installation - installation progress ................................................................. 195
Fig. 12-22 VADEV CE installation - transfer termination .................................................................. 195
Fig. 12-23 Physical setup .................................................................................................................... 196
Fig. 12-24 Selection: MDE connection ................................................................................................ 197
Fig. 12-25 General MDE connection ................................................................................................... 197
Fig. 12-26 MDE structure .................................................................................................................... 198
Fig. 12-27 Synchronisation - import meter values ............................................................................... 199
Fig. 12-28 Synchronisation - import process ....................................................................................... 199
Fig. 12-29 Synchronisation - export meters ........................................................................................ 200
Fig. 12-30 Synchronisation MDE connection selection .................................................................... 200
Fig. 12-31 Synchronisation - export process ....................................................................................... 201
Fig. 12-32 VADEV CE - view ............................................................................................................ 201
Fig. 12-33 Select higher organisational level ...................................................................................... 202
Fig. 12-34 Menu item file-> New house ........................................................................................... 203
Fig. 12-36 Created level ...................................................................................................................... 204
Fig. 12-37 Select MDE object .............................................................................................................. 204
Fig. 12-38 Menu item file-> New port ............................................................................................... 205
Fig. 12-39 New COM port - edit properties ......................................................................................... 205
Fig. 12-40 New COM port set up ......................................................................................................... 206
Fig. 12-41 Select COM port ................................................................................................................. 206
Fig. 12-42 Menu item file-> New line ................................................................................................ 207
Fig. 12-43 New line - edit properties ................................................................................................... 207
Fig. 12-44 New line created................................................................................................................. 208
Fig. 12-45 Select higher level for new meter ....................................................................................... 208
Fig. 12-46 Menu item file-> New meter ............................................................................................ 209
Fig. 12-47 Device specifications dialogue ........................................................................................... 209
Fig. 12-48 Browser - organisational .................................................................................................... 210
Fig. 12-49 Edit meter properties .......................................................................................................... 210
Fig. 12-50 Meter properties M-Bus parameters ............................................................................... 211
Fig. 12-51 New meter set up ............................................................................................................... 211
Fig. 12-52 Time setting - Windows Mobile version ............................................................................. 212
Fig. 12-53 Time setting - Windows CE version ................................................................................... 212
Fig. 12-54 MDE log readout ................................................................................................................ 213
Fig. 12-55 Bluetooth Infrared Adapter ................................................................................................. 213
Fig. 12-56 Select input Bluetooth COM port........................................................................................ 214
Fig. 12-57 Select COM port for the wireless modem .......................................................................... 215
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Fig. 12-58 NZR Bluetooth wireless modem (DFM-433) ...................................................................... 215

Fig. 12-59 VadevCE values view ..................................................................................................... 216
Fig. 12-60 Values view - edit meter value ........................................................................................... 216
Fig. 12-61 Values view - set up meter value ....................................................................................... 217
Fig. 12-62 M-Bus output stage selection ............................................................................................. 217
Fig. 12-63 Device options selection .................................................................................................... 218
Fig. 12-64 Scanning options selection ................................................................................................ 219
Fig. 15-1 Basic configuration - path data............................................................................................. 227
Fig. 15-2 DCOM security ..................................................................................................................... 228
Fig. 15-3 Windows Firewall ................................................................................................................. 229
Fig. 16-8 VADEV server installation - check ..................................................................................... 234
Fig.Fig. 16-9 User login ....................................................................................................................... 235
Fig. 16-11 User groups ........................................................................................................................ 237
Fig. 16-12 Add/Edit user group ........................................................................................................... 238
Fig. 16-13 VADEV Service Manager - menu....................................................................................... 239
Fig. 16-14 VADEV Service Manager - options .................................................................................... 239
Fig. 16-15 VADEV Service Manager - main window ........................................................................... 240
Fig. 16-16 VADEV Service Manager - event display .......................................................................... 241

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