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The BlueVary is a gas sensor designed for measuring gas concentrations of specified gases within a defined concentration range under specific technical conditions. Its primary function is to monitor metabolism in biological processes, such as fermentation. This manual provides comprehensive information for updating the firmware of the BlueVary, emphasizing safety instructions that must be strictly followed during the update process and for general operation.
The BlueVary is equipped with an integrated keypad and an LCD display, allowing users to view values and modify settings. A cursor, represented by a hyphen "-", indicates the selected line on the display. The keypad offers several functions:
Menu items are displayed in italic, while input fields and choices are shown in bold. To select a menu item, the cursor is moved with the up/down arrows, and then the OK button is pressed. Options are selected using the up/down arrows, and numbers are entered using the left/right arrows. The "esc" button is used to finalize an input or exit a menu. To save changes, the "Apply settings" menu item must be selected.
The device's start display shows the gas type and concentration of the connected cartridges, along with pressure and absolute humidity. It also indicates the remaining lifespan of the cartridges. From the start display, pressing OK leads to the main menu, which includes options such as "Set user level," "1-point calibration," "2-point calibration," "Serial settings," "Modbus settings," "Sensor info," "Analog settings," and "Advanced settings."
The BlueVary is programmed with the latest firmware version at the time of shipment. It is crucial to operate the device only under conditions that match the specifications on its nameplate. The device does not have an on/off switch; it starts operating as soon as it is connected to the power supply.
For electrical connection, specific cables and a USB adapter are required. The power supply (A) is connected to port A on the BlueVary (which handles power input, RS232, and ModBus RTU). Cable E connects the power supply to port A, and cable C is used for power supply attachment. For RS232/USB connection, cable D connects to cable C, and the USB adapter is plugged into a computer's USB port. It's important to note that the USB adapter does not replace the power supply. A COM port should be automatically created in Windows upon connection, though some Windows versions may require a driver, which can be found on the USB flash drive (if BlueVis is purchased) or the FTDI website.
Before any firmware update, the manual must be read carefully. The device is intended for use by trained specialist personnel. Any work on the device beyond what is described in the manual or the operation manual should only be performed by BlueSens gas sensor GmbH personnel to ensure safety and maintain warranty compliance.
The BlueVary should not be used as a safety component for gas monitoring in systems or as a gas warning device. Improper installation or settings can lead to hazards such as explosions and poisoning, so all connections must be checked for leaks after installation.
To perform a firmware update, the BlueVary must be set to "Admin" user level. This involves navigating to the "Set user level" submenu, selecting "Admin," and entering the code "1818." After entering the code, "Apply settings" must be selected to confirm. Once in Admin mode, the device needs to be switched to update mode via the "Advanced settings" menu by selecting "Read new firmware" and then "Reset." During this process, the display may freeze or turn off, which is normal. The menu settings are retained after a firmware update.
Maintenance and servicing should only be carried out by specially trained personnel familiar with the associated hazards and warranty terms. The warranty may be voided by non-observance of instructions, improper handling (e.g., opening the BlueVary or sensor cartridges), or using a power supply other than the original supplied one.
For firmware updates, the BlueVary must be connected to both the power supply and the computer via the RS232-USB adapter. Any programs or background services communicating with the BlueVary via the adapter must be closed before starting the update. The latest firmware and the BlueSensBoot.exe update program should always be used, both obtainable from the BlueSens service team.
The firmware and update program are typically provided as a zip file. After unzipping, the BlueSensBoot.exe program is launched. The correct firmware file (BlueVary_VX_Y*.bin) is then selected using the "choose program" button. Identifying the correct COM port is crucial; if unknown, all available ports should be noted, the program closed, the adapter disconnected, and then reconnected to identify the missing port. Once the BlueVary is in firmware update mode and the correct COM port is selected, the "connect to device" button is pressed. A "connection test succeeded!" message will appear, allowing the "start programming" button to be clicked.
During the programming procedure, it is critical not to disconnect the BlueVary from power or the computer, as this can damage the device. The update process takes less than two minutes and involves two steps: first, the old firmware is erased, and then the new firmware is uploaded. After the programming is complete, the BlueVary will switch from bootloader to application mode and restart. The "Disconnect" button must be pressed to free the COM port for other applications. After the update, the BlueVary may need to heat up again, indicated by a yellow backlight on the display.
For service and support, the BlueSens customer service can be contacted via phone or email. Contact details are provided in the manual.
| Brand | BlueSens |
|---|---|
| Model | BlueVary |
| Category | Gas Detectors |
| Language | English |