SCADAdial
The Micro-Comm SCADAdial system uses an analog type voice
modem connected to the computer. Depending on setup, as alarms sound on the
SCADAview system, signals are sent to the modem which places the call to
predetermined phone numbers.
Upon receiving a call, the recipient pushes the number 4
key on their telephone to acknowledge the alarm which in turn tells the system
to stop calling for that particular instance of alarm. SCADAdial can also be
set up to allow the operator to call in and do some basic functions, such as
turn pumps on or off. More information about operation is covered in the SCADAdial
manual here.
SCADAdial modems are typically connected to the computer by
a 9 pin serial port or USB port. NOTE-
if you are replacing a SCADAdial modem and the computer wants to install a
driver- hit cancel and do not install it. The SCADAview system uses its own
drivers to operate the modem and installing a driver may cause the modem not to
work.
Troubleshooting:
Since the modems are connected to the phone line, a nearby
lightning strike can break the modem. Running the phone line through a
lightning arrestor (some UPS units have one built in) can help with this
problem.
In any case, if the modem is not working either the dialer
set up has been changed in SCADAview; the phone line is broken/not working; or
the modem itself is faulty. A simple test is to plug a regular phone into the
wall jack in place of the modem and make a call. When doing this test be sure
to make sure you say a few words to insure it is 100% working. If the phone
line passes this test, most likely the modem is faulty and needs to be
replaced.
If you are having ongoing issues with the phone line used
for SCADAdial, there is an alternate way to get calls in and out without the
use of a physical phone line. This is by internet based calling, such as the
use of a Magic Jack or similar device.
About
using a Magic Jack
The Magic Jack allows you to send and receive calls over
the internet, as opposed to having a dedicated phone line for SCADAdial. As of
now, a Magic Jack can be purchased for around $50, which includes one year of
service. Each year following is around $30, in comparison to a dedicated phone
line, is a substantial savings. The Magic Jack simply connects to the SCADAdial
modem and a USB port on your computer. Set up is easy, plus you have the option
to pick a phone number with area code to suits your needs. Our customers that
use the Magic Jack say it is quite reliable, easy to use and set up. In lieu of
a dedicated phone line, all you need is an internet connection. More
information is available here.
Call Micro-Comm for assistance on these products.
Copyright
2018 Micro-Comm Inc. 15895 S. Pflumm Road, Olathe
KS 66062 phone 913-390-4500 www.scadaview.com