Connection problems

Software

Ensure that you are working with the correct software corresponding to your instrument and that you have installed the latest version.

Sometimes a simple restart of the software or the entire computer can already lead to a solution. We equally recommend to test the setup using a second computer.

Power supply

Ensure that you are supplying the instrument with DC power within the voltage range of 9-15V (9-18V for AWAC). Keep in mind that the instrument arrives with its batteries disconnected. Try using both internal and external battery/power source as well as power cycling the instrument before attempting a connection again.

If your instrument is upgraded with a DC/DC converter, a power supply of 24-48V is needed.

USB-converter

These instruments can be ordered using either a RS232 or RS422 communication protocol. Make sure to work with the cable and USB-adapter that was delivered with the instrument at all times as they are specific to either protocol. You can confirm the factory protocol by consulting the 'Final Test'-checklist, which can be found in the instruments box.

It might be necessary to update your computer's driver for the converter which can be done in  Device Manager ->  Ports (Com & LPT) -> Update driver.

To rule out a malfunctioning USB-adapter, attempt connection with a spare if available. Keep in mind to always work with USB-converters that were provided by Nortek!

COM port

Check that the correct COM port is selected. Open the Device Manager  and look for Ports (COM & LPT). Make sure that the port isn't already open, and only one software window is used. If you cannot find the “Ports (Com and LPT)” in the list, it is hidden: Click “View” and “Show hidden devices” if this is the case.

Once you connect the USB converter, the correct port should show up in the “Ports” dropdown as a USB serial port. The exact COM-port number may vary here, but the COM port that is highlighted when you connect the USB-converter is the correct port to use when you want to communicate with your Nortek instrument.

Baud rate

Ensure that you have set the correct baud rate. These instruments are set to communicate using 9600 Bd by default. Make sure “hard break” is left unchecked.

Interface box

Check the LED light display. The lights will turn red in case of error. 

• The upper light (“Power on”) shows the status of the main power, and will lit green when the power is on.
• Rx and Tx indicators describe the status of the receive signal and the transmit signal, respectively. The Rx will blink when the instrument receive signals, the Tx will blink when it transmits. 

• The Error power and Error cable indicators lit in case of power or cable failure.

   

Terminal emulator

After ensuring that the instrument is supplied with power and the correct software/ connectors/ cables are used, you can attempt to communicate with the instrument. Navigate to Communication > Terminal Emulator and click the 'Send Break' button. If the connection is successful, the instrument will respond with it's wake-up message similar to the lines below:

@@@@@@
AQUAPRO
NORTEK 2012
Version 3.39
Command mode
¶¶

If you see a response consisting of garbled text or strange characters, the instrument and the Terminal Emulator might be using different baud rates. The solution is to try other baud rates.

Other responses:

@@@@@@K1W%!Q@@@@@@K1W%!Q
Suggestion: Check that you are using the correct cable (with correct communication – RS232 or RS422).

....
Suggestion: Check that you are using the correct baud rate.

(no response)
Suggestion: Check that you are using the correct serial port.
Go to the device manager; disconnect the USB to serial converter and then connect it again to detect the correct port.

MEASURING
Suggestion: The instrument is measuring.
If you want to stop the instrument, send MC ("Message Confirmed").
If you want the measurements to continue, do not do anything.