NOTICE
- Read this manual before installing or operating. Keep this instruction manual on hand for the end user, and make use of this manual in maintenance and inspection.
- All information contained in this manual will be changed without notice. Please contact your Toshiba distributor to confirm the latest information.
1. Introduction
The trace tool PCT003Z-E for VF-AS3 is software that performs the following functions when used with an inverter connected to a computer via an RS-485 communications device. This manual should be read carefully along with the instruction manual for VF-AS3 before using PCT003Z-E to ensure correct operation.
- Exporting and Importing trace function-related parameters
- Reading information on the inverter
- Reading trace data
- Displaying read trace data in graphic form
- Storing trace data
*1 PCT003Z-E does not support any inverters other than VF-AS3.
*2 To use PCT003Z-E, the USB converters unit shown in the connection example are required.
*3 PCT003Z-E uses the TOSHIBA inverter protocol. Therefore, set the TOSHIBA protocol (F807 = 0) or (F827=0) for the inverter's protocol selection.
Connection Example of USB Converters Unit
The connection involves:
- USB converters unit (represented by a device labeled 'USB Option Unit' with RS485 and USB ports)
- Inverter interconnect cable (connecting the inverter to the RS485 port of the USB Option Unit)
- Computer interconnect cable (a standard USB A-B cable connecting the USB Option Unit to a laptop computer)
The USB communication conversion unit is Type-form: USB001Z (optional).
Inverter Interconnect Cable (optional)
| Type-form | Cable length |
|---|---|
| CAB0011 | 1.2m |
| CAB0013 | 3.6m |
| CAB0015 | 4.8m |
A commercially available USB cable (USB1.1/2.0-compliant) is required for the USB cable (A-B connection type). The recommended cable length is 1m.
System Requirements
A personal computer with Microsoft® Excel® installed is required. A USB port is necessary for the computer to connect to the inverter. It is recommended to use a mouse or a similar pointing device for operation.
*5 PCT003Z-E may not run normally on some types of PC-98 series computers.
*6 It has been confirmed that PCT003Z-E runs normally on the software listed below:
| Software | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Excel English version | MS-Excel 2007 32bit |
*7 Connect the optional USB communication converter before starting PCT003Z-E. Do not plug or unplug the connector when PCT003Z-E is running.
How to Install PCT003Z-E
To install PCT003Z-E, extract the zip file and move it into the desired folder. Take the following precautions when installing PCT003Z-E:
- Exit running application programs.
- When updating the latest PCT003Z-E, uninstall the old version of PCT003Z-E. (The version of PCT003Z-E is shown in the Opening window (section 2.3).)
How to Uninstall PCT003Z-E
To uninstall PCT003Z-E, remove the folder containing PCT003Z-E from the computer.
The specifications of this software are subject to change without notice.
Toshiba Schneider Inverter assumes no responsibility for damage caused directly or indirectly by the use or a malfunction of this software product.
These system requirements are minimum conditions required for the use of PCT003Z-E. They do not guarantee that all functions of PCT003Z-E are performed normally.
Windows® is listed as the abbreviation for a Microsoft® Windows® operating system. Microsoft® Windows® and Microsoft® Excel® are registered trademarks or trademarks of the US Microsoft Corporation in the USA and other countries.
PC-98 series is a trademark or registered trademark of NEC Corporation.
The symbols used in this manual have the following meanings:
- [ ]: Buttons or radio buttons in windows of PCT003Z-E or Microsoft Windows
- ': Menus items of PCT003Z-E
2. How to use PCT003Z-E
2.1. Enabling Macros
When PCT003Z-E is started for the first time, a dialog box (similar to a 'Security Alert - Macros & ActiveX' or 'Security Warning' message) may appear. If it appears, click the [Enable Macros] or [Enable Content] button, as PCT003Z-E uses macros. The security alert typically warns that active content might contain viruses or security hazards and advises enabling only if the source is trusted. The option to 'Enable this content' should be selected.
2.2. License Agreement
When PCT003Z-E is started for the first time or after macros have been enabled, the PCT003Z-E license agreement window appears. This window states: "We shall not be liable for any direct and indirect damages that are caused by use or disability to use of this software product." Read the contents carefully and click [I Agree] if you wish to use PCT003Z-E. Clicking [I Do Not Agree] closes the Excel book.
2.3. Opening Window
When macros are executed, the Opening sheet appears. This sheet displays "The Trace tool for VF-AS3 PCT003Z-E V100" and a note: "In order to have this tool used correctly, please read an 'instructions manual' (E6582155) well being used." After reading this manual carefully, click [To setting >] in the top-right of the window to make necessary settings. The Setting sheet is shown by clicking this button.
2.4. Setting Sheet
The Setting sheet allows for configuring communications between the inverter and the computer, and for exporting and importing related parameters.
Communication Setting
This section includes fields for COM Port, Baud rate (F800, F820), Parity (F801, F821), and Inverter number (F802). A 'Set value' column allows input, and a 'Present set value' column displays current settings.
| Communication setting | Set value |
|---|---|
| COM Port | 1 |
| Baud rate (F800, F820) | 01 (19200 bps) |
| Parity (F801, F821) | 01 (Even parity) |
| Inverter number (F802) | none |
- 'COM Port': Specify the COM port number of the computer.
- 'Baud rate': Specify the baud rate (F800, F820) of the inverter.
- 'Parity': Specify the parity (F801, F821) of the inverter.
- 'Inverter number': Specify the number (F802) assigned to the inverter.
Communication can proceed by disregarding the inverter number when setting the Inverter number of PCT003Z-E to "none".
*1 If a parameter other than those set for the inverter or computer is selected, a communication error may occur.
*2 Set the parameters of the RS485 port (1 or 2) to be used.
Table of Settings for Communications with Inverter
| Title | Content | Adjustment range | Default setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| F800, F820 | Baud rate | 0:9600bps 1:19200bps 2:38400bps | 1 |
| F801, F821 | Parity | 0:Non parity 1:Even parity 2:Odd parity | 1 |
| F802 | Inverter number | 0~99 | 0 |
*2 Communication errors might occur depending on the setting of communication function parameters (F803-F808) other than those listed above. Refer to "TOSVERT VF-AS3 Detailed manual: E6582062" for details.
*3 Since PCT003Z-E uses the Toshiba inverter protocol ASCII mode, only a number between 0 and 99 can be assigned to an inverter.
Parameter Concerning Trace Function
This section allows setting trace parameters such as Trace selection (F740), Trace cycle (F741), and Trace data1 to 4 (F742 to F745). A 'Writing set value' column allows selection from dropdowns, and a 'Present set value' column displays current settings.
- 'Trace selection(F740)': Selects the trace data acquisition timing (e.g., At tripping).
- 'Trace cycle(F741)': Selects the trace cycle (e.g., 100ms).
- 'Trace data1 to 4(F742 to F745)': Selects the type of data to trace (e.g., Output frequency (Hz), Frequency command value (Hz), Output current (%), Input voltage (DC detection) (%)).
*4 Set all trace-related parameters before operating the inverter. If these are changed after the inverter has tripped or triggered, that data cannot be read.
Table of Parameters Concerning Trace Functions
| Title | Content | Adjustment range | Default setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| F740 | Trace selection | 0:Deselect 1:At tripping 2:At triggering 3:1+2 | 1 |
| F741 | Trace cycle | 0:4ms 1:20ms 2:100ms 3:1s 4:10s | 2 |
| F742 | Trace data1 | 0-162 | 0 |
| F743 | Trace data2 | 0-162 | 1 |
| F744 | Trace data3 | 0-162 | 2 |
| F745 | Trace data4 | 0-162 | 3 |
[F742] to [F745] Setting: Trace Data (Monitor Data) and Communication Unit
| Set value | Communication number | Trace data (Monitor data) | Communication unit at trace |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | FD00 | Output frequency | 0.01Hz |
| 1 | FD02 | Frequency command value | 0.01Hz |
| 2 | FD03 | Output current | 0.01% |
| 3 | FD04 | Input voltage (DC detection) | 0.01% |
| 4 | FD05 | Output voltage | 0.01% |
| 5 | FD15 | Stator frequency | 0.01Hz |
| 6 | FD16 | Speed feedback frequency (real time) | 0.01Hz |
| 7 | FD17 | Speed feedback frequency (1-second filter) | 0.01Hz |
| 8 | FD18 | Torque | 0.01% |
| 9 | FD19 | Torque command | 0.01% |
| 10 | FD99 | Output frequency during run. Frequency command value during stop. | 0.01Hz |
| 11 | FD20 | Torque current | 0.01% |
| 12 | FD21 | Exciting current | 0.01% |
| 13 | FD22 | PID feedback value | 0.01Hz |
| 14 | FD23 | Motor overload factor (OL2 data) | 0.01% |
| 15 | FD24 | Inverter overload factor (OL1 data) | 0.01% |
| 16 | FD25 | Braking resistor overload factor (OLr data) | 1% |
| 17 | FD28 | Braking resistor load factor (%ED) | 1% |
| 18 | FD29 | Input power | 0.01kW |
| 19 | FD30 | Output power | 0.01kW |
| 20 | FE76 | Input cumulative power | [F749] setting |
| 21 | FE77 | Output cumulative power | [F749] setting |
| 24 | FE35 | Terminal RR input value | 0.01% |
| 25 | FE36 | Terminal RX input value | 0.01% |
| 26 | FE37 | Terminal II input value | 0.01% |
| 27 | FD94 | Motor speed command | 1min⁻¹ |
| 34 | FD26 | Motor load factor | 1% |
| 35 | FD27 | Inverter load factor | 1% |
| 62 | FD48 | PID result frequency | 0.01Hz |
| 63 | FD58 | PID set value | 0.01Hz |
| 64 | FD50 | Light-load high-speed switching load torque | 0.01% |
| 65 | FD51 | Light-load high-speed torque during constant speed run | 0.01% |
| 71 | FD90 | Motor speed (estimated value) | 1min⁻¹ |
| 76 | FE56 | Terminal S4/S5 pulse train input value | 1pps |
| 79 | FD87 | Dancer control PID result frequency | 0.01Hz |
| 120 | FD83 | Internal temperature 1 | - |
| 124 | FE78 | Power circuit board temperature | - |
| 130 | FD96 | External PID3 set value | - |
| 131 | FD97 | External PID3 feedback value | - |
| 132 | FD98 | External PID3 result value | - |
| 133 | FE96 | External PID4 set value | - |
| 134 | FE97 | External PID4 feedback value | - |
| 135 | FE98 | External PID4 result value | - |
| 155 | FD18 | Signed torque | 0.01% |
| 156 | FD19 | Signed torque command | 0.01% |
| 158 | FD20 | Signed torque current | 0.01% |
| 160 | FE37 | Signed terminal RX input value | 0.01% |
| 161 | FE38 | Signed terminal AI4 input value | 0.01% |
| 162 | FE39 | Signed terminal AI5 input value | 0.01% |
Inverter Individual Information
This section displays details about the inverter, including:
| Inverter individual information | Value |
|---|---|
| Inverter type-form | VFAS3-2022P |
| Serial number | 0001000200030004 |
| CPU1 Ver | 102 |
| CPU2 Ver | 1101 |
| Inverter operating time | 0 hour |
- 'Inverter type-form': Displays the type of the inverter.
- 'Serial number': Displays the serial number of the inverter.
- 'CPU1 Ver': Displays the version of the inverter's CPU1.
- 'CPU2 Ver': Displays the version of the inverter's CPU2.
- 'Inverter operating time': Displays the operating time of the inverter.
Parameter Export and Import
- [Parameter export]: The values set for the trace-related parameters (as shown in the parameter concerning trace function section) are exported into the inverter by clicking this button. After this, the values set for the trace-related parameters and information on the inverter are imported.
- [Parameter import]: The values set for the trace-related parameters and information on the inverter are imported by clicking this button.
[To graph >]
The Graphic sheet is shown by clicking this button.
2.5. Graphic Sheet
The Graphic sheet allows users to read trace data and display it in graphic form. The graphic display shows output frequency, frequency command value, output current, and input voltage (DC detection) over time. It also indicates maximum and minimum values for these data types and the cause for a trip.
Reset Approval
When attempting to read trace data of the last trip, a 'Reset approval' dialog box appears, stating: "In order to read the trace data of the last trip, it is necessary to reset an inverter once and to read trace data. Do you agree to reset the inverter?" Users can click [I Agree] or [I Do Not Agree].
- [Trace data reading]: The trace data stored in the inverter is read and displayed graphically by clicking this button. When F740 is set to 1 or 3 and data is read until a trip occurs, execute reading in the trip state for correct data acquisition. Alternatively, if trace data is recorded with a trigger, read the data before resetting the power supply.
- [Trace trigger]: When F740 is set to 1 or 3, the trace data stored in the inverter up to that time is read and displayed graphically by clicking this button. At this time, the trace selection on the inverter side is temporarily disabled. If communications are interrupted halfway, the trace selection will be set to "disabled". In such a case, set the former value again.
- 'Graph': Displays acquired data in graphic form.
- 'Max' 'Min': Displays the maximum and minimum values of 4 kinds of data acquired.
- 'Cause for trip': Displays the cause of tripping of the inverter.
- [< To setting]: The Setting sheet is shown by clicking this button.
- [To data >]: The Data sheet is shown by clicking this button.
- [To trip >>]: The Trip history sheet is shown by clicking this button.
- [I Agree]: Resets the inverter and reads trace data by clicking this button.
- [I Do Not Agree]: Stops operation without resetting the inverter (no trace data is read, but detailed history of past trips are read from inverter) by clicking this button.
2.6. Data Sheet
The Data sheet lists 4 kinds of acquired numerical data (data 1 through 4) in groups of 100 each. The table includes columns for Time(s), Output frequency (Hz), Frequency command value (Hz), Output current (%), and Input voltage (DC detection) (%).
[Trace data save]
Click this button to automatically name and save the file. The file name consists of the date and time when data is saved. The file name can be changed when saving the file.
Example of File Name Assigned Automatically
| Current date and time | Name assigned to the file |
|---|---|
| 9:30 A.M. on Apr. 5, 2012 | TRACE-040520120930.xls |
- 'Time(s)': Displays the time at the same intervals as the trace cycle.
- "4 kinds of data acquired": Displays 4 kinds of data acquired in groups of 100 each.
- [< To graph]: The Graphic sheet is shown by clicking this button.
- [<< To setting]: The Setting sheet is shown by clicking this button.
2.7. Trip History Sheet
The Trip sheet lists acquired details on past trips, from trip 1 to 8. The table includes details such as Operation Frequency (Hz), Inverter Status (bit), Frequency setting value (Hz), Output current (%), Input voltage (%), Output voltage (%), Status of input terminal, Status of output terminal, Cumulative operation time (h), Year/Month/Day, Time(hh:mm), and Trip name.
- "Past trip detailed history": Displays acquired details on a past trip of trips 1 to 8.
- [Reload]: The detailed history is read from the inverter by clicking this button. The detailed history will then be updated on the sheet.
- [<
The Graph sheet is shown by clicking this button. - [HELP]: The Inverter Status help is shown by clicking this button.
3. Troubleshooting
This section explains problems that may occur when PCT003Z-E is used.
- Q1: Although the [Trace data reading] button is clicked, time-out occurs.
- A1: Communication between the inverter and the computer is not established. Check whether the cable is connected properly and all settings for communications are made correctly.
- Q2: Although trace data is acquired, no data is displayed or other data is displayed.
- A2: Check whether "Deselect" is selected for 'Trace selection'.
- Q3: The trace tool software has started, but it does not respond to the click of any button.
- A3: This phenomenon occurs if Excel's macro setting is set at "Disable all macros without notification". To solve this problem, set the macro setting to "Disable all macros with notification".
- Q4: The instruction manual for VF-AS3 states that any number up to 248 can be assigned to an inverter (F802), but only a number up to 99 can be assigned with PCT003Z-E.
- A4: Since PCT003Z uses the Toshiba inverter protocol ASCII mode, only a number between 0 and 99 can be assigned to an inverter.
- Q5: Communication error occurs when PCT003Z and PCM001Z are used together.
- A5: Because PCM001Z occupies the communication port, PCM001Z and PCT003Z cannot be used at the same time. Use PCT003Z after PCM001Z has ended, or use a different port for PCM001Z. When setting parameters with PCM tool for VFAS3, use PCM002Z. PCM001Z is not compatible with VFAS3.
Outline of the Trace Tool Function
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Number of sampling | 100 points |
| Trace cycle (F741) / Tracing time | 4ms / 400ms, 20ms / 2s, 100ms / 10s, 1s / 100s, 10s / 1000s |
| Number of trace data | 4 data. These are set by parameter F742 to F745. |
| Trace object (F742 to F745) | Refer to Table2 Parameter concerning trace functions |
| Trip (F740=1) | The trace data is constantly updated, and update is stopped at trip. When the inverter is doing trip or stopping, the trace data recorded by trip can be read. However, data cannot be read while the inverter is driving. |
| Input terminal (F740=2) | The acquisition of the trace data begins on the terminal input (No.76 or No.77), and after the data of 100 points is acquired, the update of the trace data is stopped. |
| 1+2 (F740=3) | The trace data is constantly updated, and update is stopped at trip or when the input terminal function (No.76 or No.77 (negative logic)) is enabled. |
| Conservation form | '.xls' file format |
| COM port | 1 to 30 |
| Baud rate | 9600bps, 19200bps, 38400bps (Match it to setting on inverter side. (F800, F820)) |
| Parity | Non parity, Even parity or Odd parity (Match it to setting on inverter side. (F801, F821)) |
| Inverter number | none or 00 to 99 (Match it to setting on inverter side. (F802)) |
