TransCore AP4119 - Chapter 3 Operating the Programmer; Operating Procedures, Commands, and Tagging

AP4119 Rail Tag Programmer User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
3–18
Chapter 3 Operating the Programmer
This chapter describes how to program a tag and how to verify or read data from
a tag. This chapter also lists the serial command set and describes the security
character operation.
Before Programming Tags
Before beginning programming, set up the programmer station as described in “Chapter 1 Programmer
Basics” on page 1–7. The programmer must be connected to a host system using a customer-
supplied programming software or TransCore AP4119 Rail Tag Programmer (TP) host software, or to a
communications terminal. Manually enter the serial control commands if a communications terminal will be
used.
Configure the programmer using a permissions tag as described in “Chapter 2 Configuring the
Programmer” on page 2–13.
“Chapter 1 Programmer Basics” on page 1–7 provides instructions for installing the TP software. The
accompanying AP4119 Rail Tag Programmer Host Software User Guide provides detailed instructions for
operating the TP software.
Note: If the TransCore TP software on the host computer is being used, do not use the serial
commands listed in this chapter.
To operate the programmer using a communications terminal or a personal computer (PC) that does
not use TransCore’s TP software, follow the steps in “Programming a Tag” and/or “Verifying Tag Data”
sections of this chapter. Use the programmer commands listed in the “Serial Command Set” in this
chapter.
The tag programmer is powered by 24 VDC power supply converter that plugs into a standard 110V AC,
50-60 Hz electrical outlet. Refer to “Chapter 1 Programmer Basics” or to Appendix A on page A–32 for
additional information.
Caution
TransCore tags are sensitive to ESD, and precautions are necessary to ensure proper tag
programming operation. Use the grounded ESD static-suppression wrist strap when using
the programmer. Additional protection from ESD is recommended where practical. Refer to
“Chapter 1 Programmer Basics” on page 1–7 for recommended practices to protect the tags
against ESD damage.