Metercat Getting Started 2 1

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Getting Started GuideRelease 2.1

www.elster.com
http://www.elster.com/http://www.elster.com/


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Getting Started Guide 3 Contents

Contents

1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Introducing Metercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Metercat system requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Introducing AlphaPlus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5AlphaPlus system requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Introducing Alpha Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Alpha Keys requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Additional CD contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Registering your software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2 Installing Metercat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Preparing to install . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Installing from CD-ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Installing or uninstalling additional features . . . . . . . . . 22

Installing from a network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Adding or changing your background image . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Configuring your monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Starting Metercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Forgotten password? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

3 Upgrading Metercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Backing up existing databases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Upgrading Metercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Starting Metercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

4 Installing AlphaPlus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

AlphaPlus installation disks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Installing from CD-ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

5 Installing Alpha Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Installing .NET Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Installing Alpha Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

6 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Installing Metercat - network installation error . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Installing Metercat - installation interrupted . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A Creating a custom image file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Metercate ng ar e u e


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Getting Started Guide 4 1. Introduction

1 Introduction

Introducing Metercat

Metercat, the meter configuration and analysis tool, is a user-friendly software packagedeveloped to program and read Elster Electricitys A3 ALPHA meter and manage the REXmeter. Designed as a flexible MicrosoftWindows-based application, Metercat runs onWindows 2000, XP or Vista platforms.

Metercat is used to communicate with Elster Electricity electronic meters for programdevelopment, meter programming, meter reading, meter testing, and report generation.Features of the Metercat software include:

user-friendly interface

function-level security

program development wizard

component editor

user management

function management

viewset management

database synchronization

launching AlphaPlus software from Metercat

Metercat users include:

meter shop administrators and supervisors

meter readers and programmers

program developers

remote communicators

Metercat system requirements

Metercat has the following minimum system requirements:

Intel Pentium/Celeron family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatibleprocessor recommended with appropriate keyboard and pointing device

32 MB of RAM (64 MB recommended)

a hard disk with 50 MB free space a CD drive (or network access to the installation CD)

a SVGA monitor (minimum resolution of 800 x 600 pixels, Font Size = Small Fonts)

MicrosoftInternet Explorer 4.0 or higher

e ng ar e u e Metercat


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Figure 1-1. Alpha Keys Hard Key III (USB)

Soft Keys - software counters stored in the Hard Key that allow specific upgrades tooccur. One Soft Key permits one upgrade of one A3 ALPHA meter; the Soft Keyscounters are decremented accordingly as upgrades are performed.

Alpha Keys requirements

To use Alpha Keys, you must have Metercat 1.7 or later installed on your computer and aHard Key with Soft Keys available.

Additional CD contents

In addition to the Metercat installation files, the Metercat installation CD contains:

Metercat Getting Started Guide

Metercat Release Notes

Metercat User Guide

Adobe Acrobat Reader 6.0.1 installation files

customizable HTML Help project files

You may open and print the Metercat Getting Started Guideto a printer (600 dpi is

recommended).

Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view and print the Metercat and AlphaPlusdocumentation (in portable document format (PDF) format). Acrobat Reader 6.0.1 requiresWindows 98 SE or later. You can download and install the current release of AcrobatReader from the Adobe website (http:\\www.adobe.com).

Note: PDF files of the User Guideare installed as part of the Metercat installation.

The installation CD also contains the following meter documentation:

Meter technical manuals:

A3 ALPHA Meter Technical Manual (TM42-2190)

A3 ALPHA Meter Technical Manual for Use in Canada (TM42-2195)

ALPHA Plus Meter Technical Manual (TM42-2182) ALPHA Plus Meter Technical Manual for Use in Canada (TM42-2185)

REX Meter Technical Manual (TM42-2210)

A1800 ALPHA Meter Series Technical Manual (TM42-2410)

Software documentation:

AlphaLite Software Quick Reference

AlphaLite Technical Manual (TM42-2201)

AlphaPlus Software Menu Quick Reference

AlphaPlus Getting Started Guide (TM42-2200)

Alpha Keys User Guide
http://www.adobe.com/http://www.adobe.com/


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Registering your software

The Metercat software installation CD comes shrink-wrapped with a software registrationmail-in card that contains the serial number for Metercat.

To register your software, complete the registration card (provide your name, company,address, etc.) and mail to Elster Electricity, LLC.


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Getting Started Guide 8 2. Installing Metercat

2 Installing Metercat

You can perform a standard installation of Metercat from:

the Metercat installation CD-ROM

a network server to which you have copied the contents of the Metercat installationdisc

Note: You cannot install Metercat by copying files from one computer to another.Metercat must be installed by running Setup.exe from either the Metercatinstallation CD or from a network location to which the entire contents of theMetercat installation CD have been copied.

Caution: Do not install multiple instances of Metercat on the same

computer.

Preparing to install

Note: To install Metercat software on Windows 2000, XP or Vista platforms, you musthave Administrator privileges on the workstation.

Before you begin installing the Metercat software, exit all open programs.

Metercat stores data files (stored readings, reports, and the Metercat databases) in theMicrosoft recommended location to avoid permission issues for non-administrative userson the computer.

for Windows 2000 and Windows XP, data files are stored in the C:\Documents andSettings\All Users\Application Data\Elster\Metercatfolder

for Windows Vista, data files are stored in C:\ProgramData\Elster\Metercat\folder

If you selectedAll Users, Metercat.exe will be available for all users who log on to thecomputer; if you selected Only for Me, Metercat.exe will only be available to you whenyou log on to the computer.

You must have Administratorprivileges to change the location of Metercat data files to alocation other than the default. See your IS Administrator for assistance.

Note: If the Metercat user does not have Administrator privileges on the computer, youmust ensure that the user has Full Access to Metercats \Config, \Readings, and\Reports folders (and their sub-folders).

Installing from CD-ROM

To install Metercat from the installation CD:

1. Close all open applications.

2. Insert the Metercat installation CD into your CD-ROM drive.

3. To start the installation wizard:



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a. If Auto-insert Notificationis enabled on your computer, the installation wizardshould begin automatically (that is AutoRun.exe).

b. If Auto-insert Notificationis disabled, from the Windows Startmenu, select Runand use the Browsebutton to navigate to the disc drive and double-click onAutoRun.exe.

You will see the Metercat installation splash screen.

Figure 2-1. Metercat Installation Splash Screen

4. You have the following options:

a. Metercat Release Notes - click to view the PDF version of the release notes(including known limitations).

b. Metercat Getting Started Guide- click to view the PDF version of the installationinstructions.

c. Install Adobe Reader - click to begin the installation of Acrobat Reader.

Note: If you already have Adobe Reader 6.0 or later installed, you will not see this button.To view the Metercat User Guide and Program Development Guide you will needAdobe Reader installed on the computer.

d. Install Metercat 2.1 - click to begin the installation.

e. Alpha Keys- click to begin installing Elster Electricitys Alpha Keys software (seeChapter 5, Installing Alpha Keysfor details)

f. AlphaPlus Applications- click to begin installing Elster Electricitys AlphaPlussoftware (see Chapter 4, Installing AlphaPlusfor more details)


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5. After clicking Install Metercat 2.1, you may see the InstallShield Wizard startupdialog box.

Figure 2-2. Progress bar

Note: If installer files are needed on your system, you will be required to restart yourcomputer before the installation can continue. The installation procedure shouldautomatically continue after your system is restarted.

Figure 2-3. Metercat InstallShield Wizard dialog

6. On the Welcome to the InstallShield Wizard for Metercat dialog box, click Nexttoacknowledge that you have closed all open programs and are ready to begin theinstallation process.


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Figure 2-4. Software License Agreement

7. Read the Software License Agreementand select I accept the terms in the licenseagreement if you agree to abide by its terms and click Next.

If you choose to not abide by the agreement, click Cancelto exit the setup program.

Note: You can click Back to return to the previous step in the installation.

Figure 2-5. Customer information dialog

8. Enter your User Information: Name, Company, and Serial Number.


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Note: Your Metercat CD has the serial number located on the back of the jewel case.

9. Select to install Metercat forAnyone who uses this computer (All Users) or Only forme.

If you selectAll Users, Metercat.exe will be available for all users who log on to thecomputer; if you select Only for Me, Metercat.exe will only be available to you whenyou log on to the computer.

10.Click Nextto continue to the next step.

Figure 2-6. Setup type

11. Select to install the appropriate Metercat type:

Typical ANSI- select if you are supporting A3 ALPHA and REX meters

Typical IEC- select if you are supporting A1800 ALPHA meters

Custom- select if you are supporting one or more of the following: A3 ALPHA,A1800 ALPHA, REX meters and Language Customization Tools

Note: Depending on your selection, you will see different installation instructions.


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Figure 2-7. ANSI and IEC Setup - Destination Folder

12.If you selectedTypical ANSIorTypical IECyou will see the Destination Folderdialog.

Metercat stores data files (stored readings, reports, and the Metercat databases) inthe Microsoft recommended location to avoid permission issues for non-administrative users on the computer.

for Windows 2000 and Windows XP, data files are stored in theC:\Documentsand Settings\All Users\Application Data\Elster\Metercatfolder

for Windows Vista, data files are stored in theC:\ProgramData\Elster\Metercat\folder

a. You can click Changeto change the Metercat installation path.

Note: You must haveAdministratorprivileges to change the location of Metercat datafiles to a location other than the default. See your IS Administrator for assistance.

Caution: Elster stronglyrecommends installing Metercat to the defaultlocation. If you change the Metercat data f iles location from thedefault value, other Metercat users on that computer may beunable to access Metercat or its data files.

Note: If the Metercat user does not haveAdministratorprivileges on the computer, youmust ensure that the user has Full Accessto Metercats \Config, \Readings, and\Reportsfolders (and their sub-folders).

b. Click Nextto continue.


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Figure 2-8. Begin the installation

c. Click Installto begin the installation.

13.If you selected Custom, you will see the Custom Setupdialog.

Figure 2-9. Custom Setup

a. Select the meter components you wish to install.

Metercat 2.1 components:

Printable Metercat Guides - you can choose to not install the PDF files of the


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User Guideand the Getting Started Guide

Program Development - you can choose to not install Metercats programdevelopment module; if you do not install program development, Metercatwill only open existing programs and components or import program andcomponent files.

System Preferences - you can choose to not install Metercats systempreferences configuration module; if you do not install system preferences,

you will only be able to use Metercats default system preference settings.

DOS AlphaPlus Launching - you can choose to not install theTools > LaunchAlphaPluscommand in Metercat; if you do not install DOS AlphaPlusLaunching, you will not be able to start AlphaPlus software from withinMetercat.

A1800 ALPHA meter- you can choose to not install support for theA1800 ALPHA meter

A3 ALPHA meter- you can choose to not install support for the A3 ALPHAmeter

REX meter- you can choose to not install support for the REX meter

Language Customization Tools- you can choose to not install support filesand applications for internationalization language support

Background Customization- you can choose to not use a custombackground image in the body area of Metercat

Note: You can install any uninstalled features at a later date by inserting the Metercatinstallation CD and following the instructions in Installing or uninstalling additionalfeatures on page 22.

Note: You can select to install a feature or to install a feature and all subfeatures on alocal drive. Elster Electricity recommends you select to install a feature and allsubfeatures.

If you selected to use a custom background image, the Installation Wizardprompts you to select the image file. See Appendix A, Creating a custom imagefilefor details on creating a custom background image.

b. Navigate to the location of the image file and select the image file.

Preference Default Value

Meters Supported all installed meter types enabled

Site ID Labels #1 - Account:#2 - Meter ID:

Holidays No holidays will be generated automatically in SpecialDates components

Dates and Rates Options Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Season 5, Season 6, etc. only 4 seasons will be enabled midnight switch times will be generated automatically

Programming Options line frequency will be the meter clock source one cycle of the alternate display list will be seen atpower up

KYZ Value and Adjusted Khwill be disabled

Time Difference Options Metercat will not check for time errors

Stored Readings Account value will be used when importing storedreadings.


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Figure 2-10. Custom image selected

c. Click Open.


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Metercat will open with the selected image as the background.

Figure 2-11. Metercat with background custom image - small window


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Figure 2-12. Metercat with background custom image - full screen

d. Click Spaceto view available disk space.


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Figure 2-13. Disk space requirements

e. Click OKto return to the Setupdialog.

f. Click Changeto select a new installation path for the software or accept thedefault Destination folder(C:\Program Files\Elster\Metercat).

Caution: Elster stronglyrecommends installing Metercat to the defaultlocation. If you change the Metercat data f iles location from thedefault value, other Metercat users on that computer may be

unable to access Metercat or its data files.Note: Installing to a location other than the default (C:\Program Files\Elster\Metercat)

causes a broken link to the Special Option Board information page. To view thispage, navigate to ..\Metercat\SpOBDefs and open the HTML file.



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Figure 2-14. ANSI and IEC Setup - Destination Folder

15.Click Changeto select a new path for the data files

Or

Accept the default Destination folder.




Caution: Elster stronglyrecommends installing Metercat to the defaultlocation. If you change the Metercat data f iles location from thedefault value, other Metercat users on that computer may beunable to access Metercat or its data files.

Note: You must haveAdministratorprivileges to change the location of Metercat datafiles to a location other than the default. See your IS Administrator for assistance.

Note: If the Metercat user does not haveAdministratorprivileges on the computer, youmust ensure that the user has Full Accessto Metercats \Config, \Readings, and\Reportsfolders (and their sub-folders).

16.Click Nextto continue.


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Figure 2-15. Ready to Install

17. If you wish to change your settings, click Backuntil you see the appropriate dialogand make your changes.

Or

Click Installto begin the installation.

The installation proceeds. After Metercat has been installed, the final dialog displays.

18.Check Launch the Metercat programto open Metercat immediately afterinstallation.

Uncheck Launch the Metercat programto finish the installation without launchingMetercat.


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Figure 2-16. Finishing the Installation

19.Click Finishto complete the installation.

Installing or uninstalling additional features

If you have installed Typical ANSI support or Typical IEC support, you can install the othersupport at a later date by doing the following:

Using InstallShield

Using Add or Remove Programs

You can also use this procedure to uninstall installed components.

Using InstallShield


2. Insert the Metercat installation CD into your CD-ROM drive.

You will see the Metercat InstallShield Wizarddialog.


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3. Click Nextto continue to the next step.

Figure 2-18. Program Maintenance

4. Select to Modifyyour current installation.

5. Click Next.


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Figure 2-19. Select program features

6. Select the additional meter components you wish to install or uninstall.

You can select to install/uninstall a feature or to install/uninstall a feature and allsubfeatures on a local drive. Elster Electricity recommends you select to install oruninstall a feature and all subfeatures.

Note: To change a background image, you must first remove the image and completethe install, then repeat the above process to add an image.

7. Click Nextto continue.

Figure 2-20. Begin modification


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8. Click Installto install the additional feature.

The installation/uninstallation begins.

Once the changes have been performed, the Completion dialog displays.

9. Check Launch the Metercat programto open Metercat immediately afterinstallation.

Uncheck Launch the Metercat programto finish the installation without launching

Metercat.

Figure 2-21. Installation complete


Using Add or Remove Programs

To install or uninstall components using the Windows Add or Remove Programs dialog:

1. From the Windows Startmenu, select Settings > Control Panel > Add or RemovePrograms.

2. Scroll down the installed programs list and select Metercat.


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Figure 2-22. Add or Remove Programs dialog

3. Click Change.

You will see the Metercat InstallShield Wizarddialog.


5. Select to Modifyyour current installation.

6. Click Next.

7. Select the additional meter components you wish to install or uninstall.

Note: You can select to install/uninstall a feature or to install/uninstall a feature and allsubfeatures on a local drive. Elster Electricity recommends you select to install afeature and all subfeatures.


9. Click Installto install the selected features.


Installing from a network

To install the Metercat software from a network server:

copy the entire contents of the Metercat installation disc to a location on a network

server

Note: Elster Electricity does not support installingMetercat software to a shared networkdrive.

To install Metercat from the network server:


2. From the workstation on which Metercat is to be installed, navigate (using NetworkNeighborhoodor some other method) to the network server that contains theMetercat installation files.

3. Double-click onAutoRun.exe.

4. Follow the installation instructions as described in Installing from CD-ROM on page8.


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Adding or changing your background image

To add or change your customized background image, use the precedure described inInstalling or uninstalling additional features on page 22to select an image file to be usedas Metercats background.

Configuring your monitor

Before you can run the Metercat software you must check that your monitor has thefollowing settings:

Desktop Areaof at least 800 x 600 pixels

Font Sizeset to Small Fonts

To check your monitors settings:

1. From the Windows Startmenu, select Settings > Control Panel.

2. Double-click on Display.

3. Select the Settingstab.

4. If the Desktop Areais equal to 640 x 480 pixels, move the slider until the settingequals at least 800 x 600 pixels.

5. If the Font Sizeis set to Large Fonts, click the drop list button and select Small Fonts.

6. If you have changed any settings, clickTest.

Your monitor briefly displays a test pattern.

7. If you see the pattern correctly you may click OKto apply your changed settings andreturn to the Control Panelwindow.

8. Close the Control Panelwindow.

Starting Metercat

During the installation process, the program created a Metercat Program Groupcontaining shortcuts for the Metercat application and the Metercat documentation (onlinehelp, Getting Started Guide, User Guide, Program Development Guide, and ReleaseNotes).

To start Metercat the first time after a new installation:

1. Do one of the following:

From the Windows Startmenu, select Programs > Metercat > Metercat 2.1.

Double click the Metercat 2.1icon on your desktop.

2. Select between Single User or Multiple User mode. The system will then auto-buildseveral database entries.

Note: You cannot rename or delete the Administrator account. Elster Electricityrecommends changing the default password after the first use. See Chapter 3 inthe Metercat User Guidefor instructions on changing passwords.

3. The only log on name available at initial startup for blank database is Administratorwith the password Administrator(if you selected Multiple Usermode the group isAdministrators).

Note: You can not rename or delete the Administrator account; Elster Electricityrecommends changing the default password at the first log on. Refer to theMetercat User Guide, Chapter 3 for instructions on changing passwords.


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Forgotten password?

If you have forgotten the Administrator password, you must contact Elster ElectricityTechnical Support. They will guide you through a process using a temporary password toaccess Metercat.


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Getting Started Guide 29 3. Upgrading Metercat

3 Upgrading Metercat

Note: Installing Metercat Rel. 2.1 will automatically uninstall any previous releases ofMetercat. Your existing program data, stored readings, or reports will not bedeleted.

Backing up existing databases

Before upgrading Metercat and as a precaution, Elster Electricity recommends that youcreate copies of your database (*.mdb) files (located atC:\Program Files\Elster\Metercat\Config1where C: is the drive designation for thesoftware).

Note: During the installation Metercats installer will create.bak (backup) files of existingdatabases. These .bak files will be numbered sequentially depending on thenumber of times Metercat has been upgraded (example, .bak1, .bak2, etc.).

Elster Electricity recommends that you create periodic backup files of your database files(located in C:\Program Files\Elster\Metercat\Config\ *.mdb.

Caution: The .bak files located in that directory should NOT be deletedfrom the system.

Upgrading Metercat

To upgrade to Metercat 2.1:


2. Insert the Metercat installation CD into your disc drive.


If Auto-insert Notificationis enabled on your computer, the installation wizardbegins automatically.

If Auto-insert Notificationis disabled, from the Windows Startmenu, select Runand use the Browsebutton to navigate to the CD ROM drive and double-click onAutoRun.exe.

The Metercat installation splash screen appears.

1. If you have upgraded from an earlier release of Metercat the path may be C:\Program Files\ABB\Metercat\Config.



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Figure 3-1. Metercat Installation Splash Screen


a. Metercat Release Notes - click to view the PDF version of the release notes(including known limitations).

b. Metercat Getting Started Guide- click to view the PDF version of the installationinstructions.

c. Install Adobe Acrobat - click to begin the installation of Acrobat Reader.

Note: If you already haveAcrobat Reader installed, you will not see this button. To viewthe Metercat User Guideyou will needAcrobat Readerinstalled on thecomputer.

d. Install Metercat 2.1 - [Upgrade] click to begin the installation.

e. Alpha Keys- click to begin installing Elster Electricitys Alpha Keys software

f. AlphaPlus Applications- click to select a type of AlphaPlus software to install -ANSI meters or ANSI and IEC meters

5. After clicking Install Metercat 2.1, you may see the InstallShield Wizardstartupdialog box.


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Figure 3-2. Progress bar

Note: If installer files are needed on your system, you will be required to restart yourcomputer before the installation can continue. The installation procedure shouldautomatically continue after your system is restarted.

6. On the Welcome to the InstallShield Wizard for Metercatdialog box, click Nextto

acknowledge that you have closed all open programs and are ready to begin theinstallation process.


7. Read the Software License Agreementand select I accept if you agree to abide by itsterms and click Next.

If you choose to not abide by the agreement, click Cancelto exit the setup program.

Note: You can click Back to return to the previous step in the installation.


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Figure 3-4. Select database defaults

8. Select one of the following options:

a. Install New Defaultsto start with new (empty) default databases.

b. Use Existing Databasesto continue to use your existing data.

Note: Use Existing Databases is the default value. Elster recommends accepting thedefault setting to preserve existing Metercat settings, preferences, and files.


Your Customer Information displays (Nameand Company).

10.Enter your Metercat Serial Number.

Note: Your Metercat CD has the serial number located on the back of the jewel case.

11. Select to install the appropriate Metercat type:

Typical ANSI- select if you are supporting A3 ALPHA and REX meters

Typical IEC- select if you are supporting A1800 ALPHA meters

Custom- select if you are supporting one or more of the following: A3 ALPHA,A1800 ALPHA, REX meters, Language Customization Tools and BackgroundCustomization

If you selected to use a custom background image, the Installation Wizardprompts you to select the image file.

a. Navigate to the location of the image file and select the image file.


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Figure 3-5. Custom image selected

b. Click Open.


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Metercat will open with the selected image as the background.

Figure 3-6. Metercat with background custom image



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Figure 3-7. Selecting data files folder

13.Click Changeto select a new installation path for the software.

Or

Accept the default Destination folder(C:\Documents and Settings\AllUsers\Application Data\Elster\Metercat\).

Note: Installing to a location other than the default causes a broken link to the SpecialOption Board information page. To view this page, navigate to

..Elster\Metercat\SpOBDefs and open the HTML file.14.Click Nextto continue to the next step.

A dialog displays informing you what files will be moved and the location to whichthey will be moved.





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Figure 3-8. Moving existing Metercat data files

15.Click OKto continue.

16.To review or change your installation settings (for example, the installation folder)click Backuntil you see the appropriate dialog and make your changes.

Or

Click Installto continue to the next step.

17. As part of the upgrade, older versions of Metercat will be automatically uninstalled.a. When prompted, click OKto remove the older version. The uninstallation process

should continue.

Note: Program data, stored readings, and reports will not be deleted.

b. After the uninstallation of older Metercat versions is complete, a finish window isdisplayed. If prompted to do so, do notrestart your computer.

18.Check Launch the Metercat programto open Metercat immediately afterinstallation.

Uncheck Launch the Metercat programto finish the installation without launchingMetercat.

Figure 3-9. Uninstall Complete dialog

19.Click Finishon the final screen to complete the installation.


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Starting Metercat

Note: If you selected Use Existing Databases, the databases will be migrated to thenewer version automatically when Metercat is started for the first time.

To start Metercat the first time after an upgrade installation:


From the Windows Startmenu, select Programs > Metercat > Metercat 2.1.

Double click the Metercat 2.1icon on your desktop.


If you are upgrading from Metercat 1.8 or earlier, migrate your old data into thenew database format. If you have ejected the Metercat CD, you will be promptedto insert the installation CD. When migrating the old data into the new databaseformat, you may see DOS command windows.

Metercat will then start in either Single Useror Multiple Usermode dependingupon the settings in the existing databases.

3. If you are using existing databases, you must log on using a valid log on name andpassword and group name.

4. If you are starting with a blank database, you must select between Single UserandMultiple Usermode. The system will then automatically build several databaseentries.

5. You will need to log on using the Administrator user name and password and theAdministrator group.

Caution: To ensure Metercat security, Elster strongly recommends youchange the Administrator password once you have logged on.


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Getting Started Guide 38 4. Installing AlphaPlus

4 Installing AlphaPlus

You can perform a standard installation of AlphaPlus software and ALPHA Keys softwarefrom the Metercat installation CD-ROM.

Caution: AlphaPlus software can only be installed from a network serverwhose drive has been mapped to a drive letter (for example,K:\) on the computer.

AlphaPlus installation disks

AlphaPlus 1.30 software is distributed by Elster Electricity, LLC on a CD-ROM. In some

instances customers may need to install the AlphaPlus software using 3.5 in. disks.

In these cases the customer should create their own installation disks by copying all of thefiles located in each of the subfolders in the3.5 Install disksfolder to a separate 3.5 in.disk.

The folder named Install Disk1contains the Install.exeprogram which should be run tostart the installation process. The program will prompt the user to insert the other diskswhen they are needed.

Installing from CD-ROM

To install AlphaPlus from the installation CD:

1. Insert the Metercat installation CD into your CD ROM drive.


a. If Auto-insert Notificationis enabled on your computer, the installation wizardshould begin automatically (that is, AutoRun.exe).

b. If Auto-insert Notificationis disabled, from the Windows Startmenu, select Runand use the Browsebutton to navigate to the disc drive and double-click onAutoRun.exe.

You will see the Metercat installation splash screen.



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Figure 4-1. AlphaPlus Installation Splash Screen

3. ClickAlphaPlus Applications.

The AlphaPlus Applicationsdialog displays.


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Figure 4-2. AlphaPlus Applications dialog


a. ANSI Standard Meter Only- click to install AlphaPlus for ALPHAand ALPHAPlusmeters

b. Install ALPHA Keys- click to install ALPHA Keys software for ANSI meters

c. ANSI & IEC Standard Meters- click to install AlphaPlus for ALPHA, ALPHAPlus, and AIN ALPHAmeters

d. Install ALPHA Keys- click to install ALPHA Keys software for ANSI & IEC meters


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Figure 4-3. AlphaPlus for ANSI Standard Meters Only dialog

Figure 4-4. AlphaPlus for ANSI & IEC Standard Meters dialog

5. For the AlphaPlus installation you have the following options:

a. AlphaPlus Release Notes- click to view a text file of the release notes

b. AlphaPlus Getting Started Guide- click to view a PDF of the AlphaPlus GettingStarted Guide

c. Install AlphaPlus- click to begin the software installation


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Figure 4-5. AlphaPlus for ANSI meter ALPHA Keys dialog

Figure 4-6. AlphaPlus for ANSI & IEC meters ALPHA Keys dialog

6. For the ALPHA Keys installation you have the following options:

a. ALPHA Keys Release Notes- click to view a text file of the release notes

b. Install ALPHA Keys- click to begin the software installation

When you click to begin the installation process the software license agreement isdisplayed.


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Figure 4-7. AlphaPlus License Agreement dialog

7. Read the Software License Agreement.

8. Click I accept the terms in the license agreement.

9. Click OK.

The AlphaPlus Install.exe DOS splash screen displays.

Figure 4-8. AlphaPlus DOS Splash Screen

10.Press Enterto continue with the installation.


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Figure 4-9. Selecting installation option

11. Select the appropriate function, Install New AlphaPlus, to install the software.12.Press Enterto continue.

Figure 4-10. Entering the installation path

13.Enter the installation path for the AlphaPlus software (for example, C:\Elster\APLUS\).

14.Press F10to continue.


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Figure 4-11. Selecting type of system to install

15.Select the correct software type to install.16.Press F10to continue.

Figure 4-12. Selecting IEC meters to support

17. Select all of the IEC meter types to be supported by the installed software.



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Figure 4-13. Selecting ANSI meters to support

19.Select all of the ANSI meter types to be supported by the installed software.20.Press F10to continue.

Figure 4-14. Selecting AlphaPlus functions to performed

21.Select the functions to be supported by the installed software.



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Figure 4-15. Confirming installation

23.PressYif your selections are correct.Or

Press Nto review your selections.



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Figure 4-16. Install.exe installs the software


25.After installation is complete, press any key to continue.

26.Close the DOS window.

27.Close the Installer dialog.

AlphaPlus meter support software has been installed.


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Getting Started Guide 49 5. Installing Alpha Keys

5 Installing Alpha Keys

To begin installing the software:

1. Insert the Metercat installation CD into the appropriate drive of your computer.

The Metercat installation splash screen displays.

Figure 5-1. Metercat installation splash screen

2. Click Install Alpha Keys.

The Alpha Keys installer checks to see if Microsoft .NET Frameworkis installed onyour computer. If you do not have it installed, Alpha Keys installer will begin the .NETFramework installation.

Note: To use Alpha Keys, you must have Microsofts .NET Framework installed.

Installing .NET Framework

To install .NET Framework:

Alpha Keys installer begins the .NET Framework installer.



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Figure 5-2. Begin .NET Framework installation

1. Cl ickYesto begin the installation.

.NET Framework installer extracts the installation files.

Figure 5-3. Installation files extraction

After the installation files have been extracted, the installer configures .NETFramework.


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Figure 5-4. Configuring .NET Framework

Figure 5-5. Microsoft .NET Framework license agreement

2. Read the software license agreement.

3. If you agree to its conditions, select I agree.

4. Click Installto begin the installation of .NET Framework.


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5. Click OKto complete the installation.

Installing Alpha Keys

To install Alpha Keys:

1. Insert the Metercat installation CD into the appropriate port on your computer.

2. ClickAlpha Keys.

After you have installed Microsofts .NET Framework (see Installing .NET Frameworkon page 49), the Alpha Keys installer begins.

Figure 5-7. Alpha Keys installer

3. Click Nextto continue with the installation.


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Figure 5-9. Alpha Keys installation confirmation


Figure 5-10. Digital Signature dialog

8. ClickYesto continue the installation.


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Figure 5-11. Alpha Keys installation complete

9. Click Closeto complete the installation.


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Getting Started Guide 56 6. Troubleshooting

6 Troubleshooting

Installing Metercat - network installation error

If installing Metercat from a network share, the log on dialog may be displayed, whichallows the user to continue with the installation before establishing a connection with thenetwork share. If this occurs, the following dialog is displayed:

Figure 6-1. Windows Installer error dialog

To avoid this situation, wait a few seconds after the log on prompt is displayed after therestart before typing your password information. If you do see this error, navigate to thenetwork share with the installation files and restart the installation process.

Installing Metercat - installation interrupted

If installing Metercat 2.1, the InstallShield Wizard may terminate the installation processunexpectedly and display the following dialog box.



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Figure 6-2. InstallShield Wizard Complete (interrupted)

If this occurs, click Finishto close out the installer. Restart your computer and installMetercat 2.1 again.


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Getting Started Guide 59 A. Creating a custom image file

A Creating a custom image file

To create a custom background image for Metercat:

1. In a graphic application such as Paint, Photoshop, etc., create a new graphic withthe page dimensions: 14 inches by 11 inches.

The page dimensions selected may very depending on the size of your monitor.

2. Make the image background the appropriate color.

3. Place the appropriate image in the following location:

0.5 inches above the center

1.0 inches to the right of the center

4. Save the file as the appropriate file format (for example, jpg, bmp, etc.) ensuring thatthe file resolution is at least 96 dpi (dots per inch).

See Figure 2-11and Figure 2-12for examples of the custom background imageappearance in Metercat.



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Getting Started Guide 60 Index

Index

Symbols*.mdb29

AALPHA Keys

installing38AlphaPlus

creating disks38functions supported46installing38meter types45

Bbackground image

creating59customizing15

CCD-ROM6

contents6configuring the monitor27creating

AlphaPlus disks38background image59

customizingbackground image15

Ggroup27

Iinstalling from network server26

Llog on name27logging onto Metercat27

MMetercat

configuring the monitor27description4installing8, 38installing from network server26logging on27

preparing to install8starting27

Microsoft .NET Framework49

Ppassword27

troubleshooting28

Rregistering7

Sstarting Metercat27startup modes37

multi-user37single-user37

system requirementoperating system4

system requirementsminimum4

Metercate ng ar e u e


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Elster

208 S Rogers Lane

Raleigh, NC 27610-2144

United States

T +1 800 338 5251 (US toll free)

F +1 919 212 4801

[email protected]

www.elster.com

ALPHA, ALPHA Plus, REX, and EnergyAxis are registered

trademarks and Metercat and AlphaPlus are trademarks of

Elster. Other products and company names mentioned herein

may be the trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their

respective owners.

About Elster GroupElster Group is the world's leadingmanufacturer and supplier of highlyaccurate, high quality, integrated meteringand utilization solutions to the gas,electricity, and water industries. In addition,through its subsidiary Ipsen International, it

is the leading global manufacturer of high-level thermo- chemical treatmentequipment.

The group has over 8,500 staff andoperations in 38 countries, focused inNorth and South America, Europe, andAsia. Elster's high quality products andsystems reflect the wealth of knowledgeand experience gained from over 170 yearsof dedication to measuring energy andscarce natural resources.

Metercat Getting Started 2 1

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