tel UNION SWITCH llJ & SIGNAL INC. A member of the ANSALDO Group 5800 Cor~ate, Drive Pittsburgh, PA 1S237
SERVICE MANUAL 6441 B
SATEL-LINK TM
MOBILE, SATELLITE-BASED, TWO-WAY DAT A . .
April, 1990 A4/90-50-2934-1
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
Office Workstation Operations Manual
COPYRIGHT 1990, .UNION SWffCii & SIGNAL INC. PRiNTED IN ,U~A
ANSALDO Trasporti
REVISION INDEX
Revised pages of this manual are listed by page number and date of revision.
PAGE NO. REV. DATE PAGE NO. REV. DATE
NEED HELP OR SERVICE?
Call the US&S Service Shop at 1-800-652-7276.
CONTENTS
Section Page
I SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 1.1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 1.1.2 Sending and Receiving Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 1.1.3 Vehicle Position ......... ~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
II GETTING STARTED 2.1 SETTING UP THE OFFICE WORKSTATION ............. 2-1 2.1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2.1.2 Equipment Description and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2.1.3 Modem Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 2.1.4 Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 2.1.5 Booting Up the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 2.2 THE MAIN SCREEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 2.2.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 2.2.2 Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 2.2.3 Message Window ............................... 2-5 2.2.4 Status Display Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 2.2.5 Message Status Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 2.2.6 Communication Status Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.3 MENU CHOICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.3.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.3.2 Forward Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.3.3 Retum·Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.3.4 MMC Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 2.3.5 Vehicles Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 2.3.6 Other Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8 2.4 GETTING HELP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9 2.5 USING THE OFFICE WORKSTATION
KEYBOARD AND MOUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9 2.5.1 Character Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9 2.5.2 Numeric Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 2.5.3 Direction Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 2.5.4 Special Keys .................................. 2-11 2.5.5 Cursor Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 2.5.6 Using the Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 2.6 INTERACTING WITH THE MMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 2.6.1 Establishing Telephone Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 2.6.2 Establishing a Dialog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 2.6.3 Task Schedule Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 2.6.4 Types of Data Exchanged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 2.6.5 Status Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 2.7 SYSTEM SHUT-DOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 2.7.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 2.7.2 Quitting the Office Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 2.7.3 Moving the Office Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
III SETTING UP THE DATABASE 3.1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1 3.2 SETTING SYSTEMS PARAMETERS .................. 3-1 3.3 SETTING UP A TASK SCHEDULE ................... 3-3 3.4 VEHICLES DATABASE MANAGEMENT ............... 3-4
Section
III SETIING UP THE DATABASE (Cont'd) 3.4.1 MCT Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 3.4.2 Vehicles Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7 3.4.3 MCT Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 3.4.3.1 Creating Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 3.4.3.2 Editing Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9 3.4.3.3 Reading Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
IV THE MESSAGING SYSTEM 4.1 4.1.1 4.1.2 4.2 4.2.1 4.2.2 4.2.3 4.2.4 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.5.1 4.5.2 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 4.10 4.10.1 4.10.2 4.10.2.1 4.10.2.2 4.10.2.3 4.10.3 4.10.4 4.10.5 4.10.6 4.10.7
IN1RODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Time Strunping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 SENDING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Creating a Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Abandoning or Altering the Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 Editing Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 Passwords (Free-Fonn Messages) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4 READING RETURN MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4 REPLYING TO A RETURN MESSAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 DELETING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 Deleting Messages from the Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 Marking Messages for Deletion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 PRINTING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 ARCHIVING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 EDITING FORWARD MESSAGES .................... 4-7 SELECTING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 WORKING WITH MACROS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8 Creating Forward Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9 Macro Field Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 Using Macro Field Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 Macro Field Type Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13 Specifying Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 Creating Return Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 Editing Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18 Reading Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18 Printing Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18 Deleting Macro Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
V POSITION INFORMATION 5.1 IN1RODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 5.2 LANDMARKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 5.2.1 Creating Landmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 5.2.2 Editing Landmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 5.2.3 Deleting Landmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 5.2.4 Printing Landmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 5.3 DISPLAYING MCT (VEHICLE) LOCATIONS ............ 5-3 5.4 DISPLAYING MCT (VEHICLE) POSITION
HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4 5.5 DISPLAYING UNITS NEAR A LANDMARK . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 5.6 DISPLAYING VEHICLE LOCATIONS
GRAPHICALLY (MAPPING) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 5.6.1 Viewing the Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 5.6.2 Printing the Map Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
ii
Section Page
VI SYSTEM MANAGEMENT 6.1 MANAGING MESSAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1 6.1.1 Message Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 6.1.2 Canceling Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 6.1.3 Archiving Old Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 6.2 ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS .................... 6-3 6.2.1 Sort Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 6.2.2 Expunge Message Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 6.2.3 Forward Message Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 6.2.4 Return Message Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 6.2.5 Task Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4 6.3 BACKING UP SYSTEM FILES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
APPENDIX A TROUBLESHOOTING ............................ A-1
APPENDIX B DEMONSTRATING OFFICE WORKSTATION ............ B-1
APPENDIX C CREATING VEHICLE CLASSIFICATIONS .............. C-1
APPENDIX D SPECIAL CHARACTERS .......................... D-1
APPENDIX E GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
iii
ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure
1-1 The System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 2-1 System Interconnection Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2-2 Modem Front Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 2-3 The Main Menu ..................................... 2-4 2-4 Modem Conversation Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 3-1 Parameters Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1 3-2 Task Schedule Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 3-3 · Vehicles Window . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 3-4 Vehicle lnfonnation Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 3-5 Groups Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 3-6 Group Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 4-1 New Message Data Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 4-2 New Message Window ................................. 4-3 4-3 Return Messages Directory Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 4-4 Return Message Window ................................ 4-5 4-5 Forward Macros Window (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9 4-6 Macros Infonnation Window (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10 4-7 Macro lnfonnation Window (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10 4-8 Forward Macros Window (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11 4-9 Message Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11 4-10 Macro Field Types Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13 4-11 Macro lnfonnation Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18 5-1 Landmarks Window ................................... 5-1 5-2 Location lnfonnation Window (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 5-3 Location lnfonnation Window (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 5-4 Position Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4 5-5 Unit to Track Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4 5-6 Proximity Window (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 5-7 Proximity Window (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 6-1 Forward Messages Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1 B-1 Demonstration Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
iv
SECTION I SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1.1 Introduction
The Satel-Link Mobile Communications System is a two-way satellite communications system that enables transmission and reception of text messages between a railroad control facility and vehiclemounted mobile terminals. The system also enables location determination of these vehicles. Two-way contact can be maintained 24 hours per day anywhere in the continental United States.
The system consists of four major components (see Figure 1-1):
A. The Satel-Link Mobile Communications Tenninal (MCI) is mounted in the vehicle. This terminal consists of a communication unit, an outdoor unit, and a display unit (refer to the Satel-Link Mobile Communications Terminal (MCT) Installation Manual 6441C for more information).
B. The Message Management Facility (MMF) is responsible for processing and managing the message traffic between the railroad control facility and the vehicles. Within the MMF is the Message Management Computer (MMC). It is the MMC that actually receives and handles the information.
C. The Satel-Link Office Workstation is located at the railroad control facility. The office workstation is the control facility's interface with Satel-Link. The office workstation communicates with the MMC via a modem over telephone lines.
D. The Ku-Band satellite transponder is located approximately 22,300 miles over the equator at 103° West Longitude. The transponder is the link between the vehicle and the MMC.
~~ ~~
Forward/Return / / Message Links f
Message Office Management Workstation / Computer
(MMC)
T efepflone Lines
Ku Band Satellite Transponder
Forward/Return Message Links
Mobile Communications Terminal (MCT) ---
Figure 1-1. The System Overview
6441B, p. 1-1
1.1.2 Sending and Receiving Messages
"Free-fonn" or "macro" messages may be sent to any vehicle or group of vehicles. Free-fonn messages are composed by the user at the time they are sent and may be in any fonnat. Macro messages are formatted by the user ahead of time. These messages save on transmit time because the user need only fill in the "blanks" with required data. Macro messages are referred to as "canned" messages on the MCT.
Messages sent from the office workstation to the vehicles are called "forward" messages. These messages may be up to 1900 characters in length (50 lines of 38 characters). A character is a letter, symbol, or space. The messages are sent from the office workstation to the Message Management Computer (MMC) via a data modem over commercial telephone lines.
The MMC accepts each message from the office workstation and relays it to the vehicle(s) via satellite. The MMC then waits for an acknowledgement from the vehicle (also via satellite) confinning that the message was received correctly. If an acknowledgement is not received, the MMC automatically retransmits the message and waits again for an acknowledgement. The office workstation operator can also request a return receipt. A return receipt is an acknowledgement that is transmitted to the MMC (and made available for office workstation) when the forward message has been displayed on the display unit. In this manner message receipt by the MCT is assured.
The MCT has the capacity to store up to 98 messages (both forward and return) or up to 300 total displayed lines of message text for future reference. This allows the MCT operator to save and recall important messages.
The MCT operator can reply to any message received from the railroad control facility by sending either a free-fonn or canned message. Messages from the vehicle to the office workstation are called "return" messages. These messages may also be up to 1900 characters in length. The vehicle receives an acknowledgement from the MMC confirming that the message was received correctly. If an acknowledgement is not received, the MCT automatically retransmits the message and waits again for an acknowledgement. All return messages are stored at the MMC until the office workstation requests them.
1.1.3 Vehicle Position
Each MCT reports its location to the communication unit This infonnation is sent to the MMC along with a return message or acknowledgement of a forward message. Once it is in the MMC, it is available for retrieval by the office workstation. The location infonnation can also be obtained automatically at preset intervals by the MMC without any actions required by the MCT operator.
The location infonnation can be displayed by the office workstation in any of three forms:
A. Latitude/longitude coordinates.
B. Graphically on a map (displays major roadways and boundaries).
C. By distance and direction from landmarks such as large towns and cities. (Several thousand landmarks are included in the Satel-Link library. Others may be added as necessary.)
6441B, p. 1-2
SECTION II GETTING STARTED
2.1 SETTING UP THE OFFICE WORKSTATION
2.1.1 Introduction
This section contains the procedures for connecting the office workstation equipment. Instructions are also included for turning on the power and "booting up" the software. Once the system is on and the office workstation is running, the practice sessions in this section should be conducted. These sessions, indicated by the * symbol in the margin, provide help in getting started with the office workstation. Step-by-step instructions lead through some of the basic system functions, describing various menus and how to move around within the program. More detailed instructions for using the system are provided in the following sections.
2.1.2 Equipment Description and Connections
The Satel-Link. Office Workstation consists of the following equipment:
A. IBM Personal System/2 computer with keyboard and color display.
B. Printer (IBM Proprinter II).
C. Modern (Racal-Vadic Model 2400VP with Model VA2115A Desktop Power Supply).
D. Interconnect cables.
Figure 2-1 is a block diagram showing the interconnection of this equipment. The instructions for connecting the office workstation computer are in the PS/2 Guide to Operations manual. Each system requires access to a 115 Vac, 60 Hz power source, and a standard modular telephone jack (Type RJl l C).
Telephone Wall Jack
Modem
Desktop Power Supply
115 Vac
Color Display
IBM
PS/2
Computer
Keyboard
115 Vac
Printer
115 Vac
Figure 2-1. System Interconnection Block Diagram
6441B, p. 2-1
115 Vac
2.1.3 Modem Installation
The modem provides the interface between the office workstation PC and the Message Management Computer (MMC). It fonnats and transmits the data through commercial telephone lines to the MMC. Features of the Racal-Vadic Model 2400VP modem include MNP error correction, automatic dialing, status lights on the front panel, and a built-in speaker that allows audible monitoring of the phone call.
Installation of the modem is simple. The connection to the office workstation PC is made with a standard RS-232-C cable (less than 50 feet long). The connection to the phone line is made with a standard telephone cord which connects the TELCO jack on the modem's rear panel to a standard RJI lC modular telephone jack. Power to the modem is provided by a Desktop Power Supply (Racal-Vadic Model VA2115A) which, in turn, plugs into a standard 115 Vac, 60 Hz power source. For more information on installing the modem, refer to the Racal-Vadic User's Guide.
Figure 2-2 shows the front panel layout of the modem. The performance of the unit can be monitored by observing the status of the various lights on the modem front panel. A brief description of each light follows.
DDDDD TXD RXD CXR EC PWR
c:::J CC] [:=J c:::J
I DATA I ISPEEDI I ANS 11 SYNC I
Racal-Vadic MAXWELL
Figure 2-2. Modem Front Panel Layout
[:=J
'LOOP' 2400VP
• TXD (transmit data) light comes on briefly whenever data is being transmitted from the office workstation PC to the MMC. This occurs during nonnal dialogs with the MMC.
• RXD (receive data) light comes on briefly whenever data is being received from the MMC. This occurs during all dialogs with the MMC.
CXR (carrier detect) light comes on whenever the modem detects a carrier signal on the telephone line. Nonnally this light is on when a phone connection is established between the office workstation PC and the MMC.
• EC (error control) light comes on whenever the modem is in the error control mode. Nonnally error control is in effect whenever the office workstation PC is in contact with the MMC. There may be rare occasions, however, when the light is not on. For example, a noisy phone line may cause the error control feature to be abandoned, in which case the EC light goes out.
PWR (power) light (green) comes on whenever the power supply is connected to the modem.
DAT A light comes on whenever there is a phone connection between the office workstation PC and the MMC.
6441B, p. 2-2
• SPEED-The speed at which the modem operates is set automatically by the office workstation PC. The office workstation operates at 2400 baud. Therefore, the green SPEED light should be on (indicating 2400 baud) whenever there is a dialog between the office workstation PC and the MMC.
ANS (answer) light is normally off when the office workstation is being used. When this light is on, the modem automatically answers any incoming calls it receives. In the normal operating mode, this light should be off, since the office worlcstation PC initiates all calls (which are all outgoing). If the light is on, press the ANS button (located just under the ANS light) to tum it off.
• SYNC (synchronous) light comes on whenever data is being transmitted in the synchronous mode. Since the office worlcstation transmits only in the asynchronous mode, this light should always be off.
LOOP light comes on only during test operations. Therefore, it should never be on during normal office worlcstation operation.
NOTE
When the modem is first turned on, it performs a brief self-test. If the LOOP light begins flashing, there may be a technical problem with the modem.
• VOL (volume). The modem has a small volume knob on its rear panel that can be adjusted to vary the loudness of the built-in speaker.
2.1.4 Software Installation
The office worlcstation equipment is delivered with the software already installed on the PC hard disk drive. There is no need to perform any special tasks to install the software prior to turning on and operating the system.
In making inquiries about the office worlcstation, the office worlcstation operator will need to know the version number of the software. This number is displayed at the top of the office worlcstation Parameters Screen (e.g., office worlcstation Vl.00 where "l.00" is the current· software version number). The software version number can also be displayed by highlighting CREA TE MSG under the Forward Menu option and then pressing the F9 (HELP) key. The software version is displayed at the top of the Help Screen.
A set of "Office Worlcstation Software: Backup Program" diskettes is provided with each office worlcstation PC.
2.1.S Booting Up the System
"Booting up" the system involves applying power and starting the office worlcstation program. This is accomplished by first turning on the power switch for the office workstation PC and the monitor. The disk drives begin running and the monitor displays various messages as the system initializes i~elf and performs a self-test If a printer is being used, its power should also be turned on at this time.
6441B, p. 2-3
At the conclusion of the initialization process, the office workstation program will start automatically. When the Main Menu is displayed, normal operation of the system can begin. After quitting the office workstation program, the operator can restart by typing STLLNK at the C:\STLLNK> prompt.
NOTE
The contrast and brightness of the color display can be adjusted with the contrast and brightness controls, located on the upper left side of the display.
2.2 THE MAIN SCREEN
2.2.1 General
The office workstation PC acts as the primary interface between the office workstation operator and the MMC. The keyboard enables the office workstation operator to enter data (or "talk") to Satel-Link. In tum, the screens that appear on the monitor enable the MMC to present infonnation ( or "talk") to the office workstation operator.
The Main Screen operation of the office workstation is menu-driven. The Main Menu is the display that appears most often (see Figure 2-3). It is displayed whenever the office workstation is not being actively used and is waiting for the office workstation operator to initiate an action (such as creating or sending messages, checking vehicle locations, or setting parameters). It is also displayed after the office workstation operator completes any of the many functions of the system.
The Main Menu displays the major menu categories across the top of the display in the menu bar. Other infonnation that appears on the Main Menu includes the Message Window, the office workstation Status Display, the Message Status Line, and the Communication Status Line.
Forward I Return
Create Msg Directory Macros
Messages to be Sent ->
Communication Status:
0
MMC Vehicles Other
~ Message==============:;,
Unseen return messages-> O
Local
Figure 2-3. The Main Menu
6441B, p. 2-4
2.2.2 Menu Bar
The menu bar at the top of the Main Menu lists five major menu categories: Forward, Return, MMC, Vehicles, and Other. By using the mouse or the left and right arrow keys, any of these categories can be highlighted. As each category is highlighted, a pop-down menu is displayed. The options within each menu can be highlighted using the mouse or the up and down arrow keys. Once the desired option is highlighted, it can be selected for use by pressing the ENTER key or releasing the left m(?use button. Any of the menu options can also be selected by typing the first letter of the desired option and then pressing the ENTER key.
* Exercise
When the office workstation is first initialized, the Forward Menu is selected and the first option in this pop-down menu, CREATE MSG, is highlighted. Try using the arrow keys to move from menu to menu and to select options. The left and right arrow keys select the pop-down menus and the up and down arrow keys move the highlight bar from option to option.
Also try typing the first character of a menu to select that menu. For example, to select the Return Menu, press the R key. Once a menu is displayed, type the first character of an option to highlight it. For example, press F and then M to highlight the Macro option in the Forward Menu.
2.2.3 Message Window
The Message Window appears in this and several other screens. It provides the space for viewing forward and return messages (both free-form and macro-encoded). This window, which is the same width as the MCT display, is used when creating and reading messages.
2.2.4 Status Display Window
The Status Display Window appears under special circumstances. Generally, there are three types of information that may be displayed: special information, fatal errors, and warnings. For example, if an emergency message is received, the Status Display Window appears with a message giving instructions to continue. This display appears only when something out of the ordinary occurs, and it generally means that the office workstation operator must take action.
2.2.5 Message Status Line
The Message Status Line appears on the bottom of the Main Menu. It provides the status of forward and return messages. Once forward messages have been created, they are placed in a Message Queue and stored in the office workstation PC until a dialog is established with the MMC. At this time, they are sent to the designated vehicles. The Message Status Line displays the number of forward messages waiting to be sent to the MMC (notice the line "Messages to be sent ->").
During each dialog with the MMC, any return messages that have been received at the MMC since the previous dialog are delivered to the office workstation PC. The Message Status Line displays the number of return messages that have been received and have not been read (notice the line "Unseen Return Messages ->").
6441B, p. 2-5
2.2.6 Communication Status Line
The Communication Status Line also appears at the bottom of the Main Menu. It provides the status of the communication occurring between the office workstation and MMC. When no active communication is taking place, the status line reads LOCAL, indicating that all current data is generated locally within the office workstation. When a dialog is initiated with the MMC, the status line displays brief messages identifying the type of communication that is taking place. For example, DIALING is displayed when the modem is dialing the MMC telephone number.
2.3 MENU CHOICES
2.3.1 General
The menu choices of the office workstation fall under five categories: Forward, Return, MMC, Vehicles, and Other. Each of these categories has several options associated with it. The menu options are described below.
2.3.2 Forward Menu
The Forward Menu contains all of the options needed to create, delete, edit, cancel, read, archive, and print forward messages. Forward messages are sent to the vehicles. There are three options available: Create Msg, Directory, and Macros. Each option is discussed below.
• Create Msg enables the creation of a free-form message or macro message for transmission to vehicles. The macro message is created by filling in the blanks of a macro template.
• Directory displays a listing of all forward messages. Each message is identified by macro number (if applicable), message status, address of the MCT to which the message was sent, date and time the message was sent and acknowledged, and the first few words of the message text. Any message listed in the directory may be deleted, edited, canceled, read, archived, or printed.
• Macros enables the creation of a forward macro template. Any existing macro templates may be edited, read, printed, or deleted.
2.3.3 Return Menu
The Return Menu contains the options to delete, edit, read, archive, or print any return messages. Return messages are sent from the vehicles. These messages are saved in the office workstation until the office workstation operator deletes them. This menu selection also allows the creation of templates for return macro messages. There are two options available: Directory and Macros. Each option is discussed below.
Directory enables the office workstation operator to delete, read, archive, or print any return message listed. Each message is identified by macro number (if applicable), the address of the MCT that sent the message, the date and time the message was received, and the first few words of the message text.
644IB, p. 2-6
- ~,
• Macros enables the office worlcstation operator to create return macro templates. Any existing return macro template may be edited, read, printed, or deleted.
2.3.4 MMC Menu
The MMC Menu contains the option for contacting the MMC. The office workstation operator uses this option when ready to send messages to vehicles and to receive messages and other data (such as vehicle position information or forward message acknowledgements) from vehicles. MMC Dialog is the only option available.
• MMC Dialog causes an exchange of all messages and data waiting to be sent between the office worlcstation and the MMC. Several types of data and messages can be sent in each direction, including forward and return messages, message status information, macro and group definitions, vehicle positions, and message cancelations.
2.3.5 Vehicles Menu
The Vehicles Menu contains the options needed to manage the Vehicles Database. With these options, the office workstation operator can enter each of the MCTs into the database, create groups, and determine the location of the vehicles. There are five options available:
• Vehicles Directory enables the office workstation operator to view and manipulate MCTs in the Vehicles Database. This database contains identification data for each MCT. The options under Vehicles Directory enable the worlcstation operator to create a new MCT identification; edit, read, print, or delete existing MCT data; or assign each vehicle to as many as three groups. For a complete list, refer to 3.4.2 Vehicles Database (Section III).
• Position History enables the office worlcstation operator to view the position history of any MCT. The 100 most recent vehicle locations are displayed in a scrollable window. The position data is updated each time the MCT is contacted.
• Where is # ... enables the office workstation operator to determine the present position of a vehicle if the MCT is within view of the satellite. The position of the selected vehicle is displayed in latitude and longitude coordinates or distance from a landmark in the office worlcstation landmark library.
Units near ... displays a list of all vehicles located within a specified distance from a specified landmark. The office worlcstation operator can specify the distance from any landmark.
• Groups enables the office workstation operator to establish vehicle groups to which selected MCTs can be assigned. These groups are normally created to keep vehicles with related characteristics (such as similar types of loads, administrative domains, destinations, or geographic location) in easily contacted groups. Any message sent to a group address is received by all vehicles assigned to that group. Groups also permits the editing and reading of group names that were created earlier. MCTs are assigned to groups by editing the Vehicles Directory.
6441B, p. 2-7
2.3.6 Other Menu
The Other Menu contains options that enable the office workstation operator to set system operating parameters, perform system demonstrations, derme landmarlcs, contact the MMC, and shut down the system. There are six options available:
• Parameters enables the office workstation operator to set various system operating parameters in the office workstation PC. These parameters include the system passwords, the MMC phone number, instructions to print (or not print) messages automatically, and instructions to request (or not to request) return messages.
• Demo Start/Demo Stop. Demo Start enables the workstation operator to conduct a demonstration of the office workstation system. This option demonstrates each major function of the system, including vehicle location tracking as well as sending and receiving messages. When the demonstration is finished, Demo Stop is used to clear the screen.
• Landmarlcs enables the workstation operator to add landmarks to the existing landmark library provided with the office workstation. Vehicle locations can be displayed with respect to the landmarks in the library. Once a new landmarlc has been added, it may be edited, printed, or deleted.
• Call MMC/Hang-up. Call MMC is used to contact the MMC. This option causes the office workstation to call the MMC and establish a phone connection; however, no dialog with the MMC is initiated. The phone connection remains intact until the Hang-up option is selected.
• Test sends a random distribution of test messages to specified destinations.
Admin. Ops. (Administrative Operations) is available for office worlcstation file operations. Most of the options under Admin. Ops. are used infrequently. The following options are available:
Sort Vehicles may be used to reorder the vehicle list by vehicle name.
Expunge removes deleted message space from message files. This option should seldom be needed, since messages are automatically expunged by the office workstation.
Fwd Msg Repair (Forward Message Repair) and Rtn Msg Repair (Return Message Repair) are utility programs that can· be used to repair damaged files. If it is necessary to use these functions, an error message and instructions for using these options are displayed.
Task Schedule allows the workstation operator to set up a schedule for automatically initiating dialogs between the office workstation and MMC. For example, dialogs may be scheduled more frequently during peak hours and less frequently during slow times. The schedule will remain in force until changed by the office workstation operator.
• OS Shell allows the office workstation operator to enter DOS commands without exiting the program.
6441B, p. 2-8
• Quit is used to exit the office workstation and shut down the system; however, the system can remain in operation 24 hours a day.
2.4 GETTING HELP
The office workstation keyboard contains two keys which are used to correct mistakes or obtain infonnation about procedures: the ESC (Escape) key and the F9 (HELP) key.
The ESC (Escape) Key is used to correct a mistake in data entry or menu selection. The key enables the office workstation operator to back out of any menu or tenninate any procedure with no action taken. When the key is pressed, the menu is returned to the previous level and all data entered is erased. The procedure may be begun again from the start as needed.
The F9 (HELP) Key may be used whenever help is required while working at the office workstation PC tenninal. Whenever F9 is pressed, a special Help Screen is displayed. It provides useful infonnation about the function currently selected. Pressing any key will eliminate the Help Screen and return the user to the operation being perfonned.
25 USING THE OFFICE WORKSTATION KEYBOARD AND MOUSE
The office workstation PC keyboard is divided into four groups: character keys, numeric keys, direction keys, and special keys. This section describes the function of each type of key.
25.1 Character Keys
The character keys consist of letters. symbols, numbers, and special keys. These keys are laid out and used just like regular typewriter keys. Most of them repeat an action when held down. The special character keys are described below.
ENTER
BACKSPACE
SPACEBAR
TAB
ENTER works like the carriage return on a typewriter and is used to move the cursor to the start of a new line. It is also used to select any menu option that has been highlighted and to confinn data when required.
The ENTER key in the numeric keypad works just like the ENTER key in the main typewriter keyboard.
BACKSPACE is used to correct any typing errors. Each time this key is pressed it moves the cursor back one space and erases that character.
The SPACEBAR (located at the bottom of the _keyboard) inserts one space at the cursor.
TAB moves the cursor to the next tab position to the right. If TAB is pressed while holding down SHIFf, the cursor moves one tab stop to the left.
644 lB, p. 2-9
SHIFT
+
>
<
25.2 Numeric Keys
Pressing either one of the two SHIFf keys produces upper-case letters or the upper character on 2-character keys. Pressing SHIFf and TAB at the same time causes the cursor to move to the next tab stop to the left.
The+ key is used to zoom in on the map display. When this key is pressed, more detail and less of the overall map of the United States is displayed.
The - key is used to zoom out on the map display. When this key is pressed, less detail and more of the overall map of the United States is displayed.
When the map is displaying the position history, pressing this key displays the next 20 positions on the map display. Each time this key is pressed, an additional 20 positions are displayed. A total of 100 positions may be displayed.
When the map is displaying the position history, pressing this key removes the last 20 positions on the map display. Each time this key is pressed, an additional 20 positions are removed. The original 9 positions cannot be removed with this key.
The numeric keys are located at the right of the keyboard. These keys are laid out like a calculator keypad for entering numbers. Many of these keys, however, have dual functions. Some of them also function as direction keys (refer to 2.5.4 below). When the computer is first turned on, the number lock function is active and numeric values are entered when these keys are pressed. Note that the NUM LOCK light is on when number lock is active. The NUM LOCK key works as a toggle key. When it is pressed the number lock feature is turned off. When it is pressed again, the number lock feature is turned on.
25.3 Direction Keys
When the NUM LOCK light is off, the numeric keypad keys work as direction keys and can be used to move the cursor or to highlight options on the Main Menu. The other keys in the numeric keypad are not used in the office workstation.
There are two sets of direction keys on the keyboard. One set is located on the numeric keypad, and the other set is just to the left of the numeric keypad. Both sets of direction keys serve the same functions. The direction keys are used to move the cursor around the screen, to highlight menu options on the Main Menu, and to pan the display in the map mode. The direction keys are described below.
Arrows The arrow keys move the cursor right, left, up, or down. They also highlight menu options that are right, left, up, or down from the previously highlighted option. When an arrow key is pressed, the cursor or highlight bar moves in the indicated direction. The arrow keys also cause the map to pan. For example, to reveal more of the map to the left of the screen, the left arrow key should be pressed.
6441B, p. 2-10
PGUP/PGDN
HOME
END
2.5.4 Special Keys
These keys enable movement from one screen of data to another in displays longer than one screenful. (For example, the Forward or Return Directory listings may be longer than one screenful.) Press PGUP to display the next screen of data, and press PGDN to display the previous screen.
While editing a message, pressing HOME moves the cursor to the upper left comer of the active window. While viewing a directory, pressing HOME forces the display back to the first item in the directory. When the map is displayed, pressing HOME causes the map to display the entire continental United States.
While editing a message, pressing END moves the cursor to the end of the message. While viewing a directory, pressing END forces the display to the last item in the directory.
There are five special keys that are used by the office workstation. They are the ESC, Fl, F5, F9, and FlO keys. The function of each of these keys is described below.
ESC
Fl
F5
F9 (HELP)
FlO
The ESC key is located at the top of the keyboard and is used to cancel or abort any action. For example, to cancel a message after initiating the create message function, press ESC.
Fl is used to save messages which the office workstation operator has created and wants to send to the vehicles.
F5 toggles the map display on and off. The map can be displayed at any time. When the display is turned on, the first location reflects the last operation performed. For example, if a message had been sent to vehicle 37, the icon for vehicle 37 will be centered on the map display. If a search had been done for vehicles near Chicago, Chicago will be centered.
F9 is also known as the HELP key. This key may be pressed at any time to display a Help Screen. The Help Screen contains information about the function or command that is currently selected. Pressing F9 does not affect any data that has been entered. Pressing any key will eliminate the Help Screen and return the user to the operation being performed.
FlO is used to enter a submenu of the create macros function (both forward and return macros). This submenu enables the customization of macros. For example, a macro that requests pay information may be modified to require the entry of a password.
6441B, p. 2-11
2.5.S Cursor Movement
During data entry, the cursor (a small, horizontal blinking line) indicates where the next character is entered. The cursor may be moved to any allowable location using the direction keys described previously. The cursor also directs attention to specific areas when the office workstation requires a response from the user.
* Exercise
One of the best ways to learn about office workstation operation is to create a sample message. The first item that the office workstation will request is the identification number of the MCT that will receive the message. Several MCTs have been identified in the Vehicles Directory at the factory for use in practice exercises.
Accessing the Vehicles Directory
To access the Vehicles Directory, select the Vehicles Menu by pressing V. The Vehicles Directory option should be highlighted. Press ENTER to select this option. Choose one of the MCT numbers listed in the directory to serve as the message destination. Press ESC to return to the Main Menu display.
Creating a Sample Message
To begin creating the message, type the following sequence of characters: I. F (To select the Forward Menu) 2. C (f o highlight the Create Msg option) 3. Enter (fo activate the Create Msg option) 4. Destination (the number taken from the Vehicles Directory; see above) 5. Enter (to select Macro 0, which is a free-fonn message) 6. Enter (to specify no return receipt) 7. Type the sample text message given below.
THIS IS A SAMPLE TEXT MESSAGE USING MACRO 0, WHICH IS A FREEFORM MESSAGE. A FREE-FORM MESSAGE ALLOWS THE TYPING OF ANY TEXT IN ANY FORMAT.
Notice that as the message is entered, the text automatically wraps around to the next line.
Try using some of the keys described in the following section, including HOME, END, DELETE, BACKSPACE, and the up, down, right, and left arrows.
8. Press ESC to abandon the message. 9. Press Y to verify.
2.5.6 Using the Mouse
The Satel-Link Office Workstation is designed to use a mouse and a keyboard as input devices. The following tenns are used to describe mouse operation:
6441B, p. 2-12
Term Definition
Point Move the mouse until the pointer is at the desired location.
Press Hold down the mouse button.
Click Quickly press and release the mouse button.
Drag Hold down the mouse button while moving the mouse.
To select a menu option, point to the Main Menu item. Press the left mouse button and drag the mouse down until the desired option is highlighted in the pop-down menu. To choose the option, release the left mouse button. To abort the choice, drag the mouse pointer out of popdown menu and release the mouse button.
When the office workstation map is displayed, the mouse may be used to control zooming and panning. To zoom in on the map, point to the desired location on the map. By pressing the right mouse button and dragging the mouse, a rectangle is drawn on the display. Drag the mouse until the rectangle encloses the zoom area and release the mouse button. To zoom out, click the right mouse button. To pan the map display, point to one edge of the map (left, right, top, or bottom) and click the left button.
2.6 INTERACTING WITH THE MMC
2.6.1 Establishing Telephone Connection
Before messages can be sent or received, a telephone connection must be established and the office workstation must sign on to the MMC. All communication between the office workstation and MMC is made over telephone lines using a 2400-baud modem connection. This telephone connection is made when the office workstation instructs the modem to dial the MMC.
The progress of the phone call can be monitored by reading the messages displayed in the Modem Conversation Window (see Figure 2-4), or by watching the Communication Status Line. The Communication Status Line will display the following status messages:
DIALING PHONE CONNECTED.
2.6.2 Establishing a Dialog
To establish a dialog with the MMC, select MMC Dialog from the MMC Menu. During a dialog, the office workstation dials the Message Management Facility and signs on with the MMC. There is an exchange of all data and messages waiting to be sent, and then the office workstation signs off and disconnects the telephone line.
6441B, p. 2-13
2.6.3 Task Schedule Option
This option allows the office workstation operator to create a schedule for automatically initiating dialogs with the MMC. The schedule specifies the time of day and frequency of the dialogs. See 3.3 Setting Up a Task Schedule (Section III) for more information.
Modem Conversation
HELLO: l'M READY *D9K16195551212 DIALING ... ANSWER TONE
ON LINE 2400 ERROR CONTROL
Figure 2-4. Modem Conversation Window
2.6.4 Types of Data Exchanged
The office workstation can send the following data to the MMC: Macro Definitions Group Definitions Forward Messages Message Cancelations Status Queries Password Changes MCT Parameters
The MMC can send the following data to the office workstation: Return Messages Forward Message Completion Data Requested Status Information Vehicle Location Data Return Receipt Data Account Information Macro Definitions
2.6.5 Status Messages
The following are examples of status messages that may be displayed at the Communication Status Line.
SIGNING ON DIALING (if the Dial MMC each time parameter is "Y") PHONE CONNECTED SENDING. (if there is a message waiting to be sent) RETRIEVING RETURN MESSAGES REQUESTING UNIT LOCATIONS
6441B, p. 2-14
SIGNING OFF (after the dialog is finished) HANGING UP
NOTE
No "local" activities can be perfonned while interacting with the MMC. For example, no messages or macros can be created, and no groups can be defined. To tenninate an abnonnally long communication session, press ESC.
2.7 SYSTEM SHUT-DOWN
2.7.1 General
The office workstation is designed to operate 24 hours a day. While it is recommended that the system be kept operating at all times, it can be shut down if needed.
2.7.2 Quitting the Office Workstation
In shutting down the system, the procedure is to select Quit under the Other Menu and then press ENI'ER. When the C:\5TLLNK> prompt is displayed, turn the power switch off.
NOTE
Before shutting down the system, it is advisable to check the status of the Messages to Be Sent prompt on the Message Status Line and, if the number appearing there is not zero, to conduct a final dialog with the MMC to send all messages. Once the office workstation PC is turned off, any messages waiting to be sent to the MMC will not be sent until the office workstation PC is brought on line later and a dialog with the MMC is initiated.
2.7.3 Moving the Office Workstation
Before moving the office workstation PC to a new location. issue the P ARKHEAD command before turning off the power. This function protects the storage disk inside the PC from damage caused by minor jolting. The P ARKHEAD command is issued by typing P ARKHEAD after the C:\5TLLNK> prompt, then pressing the ENI'ER key.
6441B, p. 2-15
3.1 INTRODUCTION
SECTION ill SETTING UP THE DATABASE
When the office workstation system is first received. basic infonnation must be entered to establish the system parameters and the Vehicles Database. This section contains the procedures to be used in entering this infonnation. and in modifying it as needed. It also contains the procedures for setting up a Task Schedule.
3.2 SETTING SYSTEMS PARAMETERS
At the factory, the account number, passwords, and the MMC phone number have been preset, and standard default values have been entered into the remaining fields. This section describes the procedure for changing these preset systems parameters as needed.
To access the systems parameters:
1. Select Parameters from the Other Menu. The Parameters Window is displayed (see Figure 3-1).
2. Type parameter password and press ENTER. (If the correct password is not entered, the message PASSWORD INCORRECT is displayed and the Main Menu appears.)
Parameters---------------~
Office Workstation V1 .00
Parameter Password: Account #: 1234567890 MMC Password: ABCDEFGHIJ Dial MMC Each Time?: Y Phone #: 9K16195551211 Phone#: 9K16195551212 Phone #: 9K16195461027 Phone#: 9K16195461028 Phone#: 9K16195461029 Request return message: Y Auto msg print: N Time Zone: EST Text Color: 7 Background Color: 1
Parameter password : .... I __ __,! ( F1-complete, ESC-aborij
Figure 3-1. Parameters Window (with sample parameters shown)
6441B, p. 3-1
3. Once the correct password is entered, the parameters may be changed one at a time. After each parameter is changed, press ENI'ER to proceed to the next parameter. If no change is required for a particular parameter, press ENI'ER or the arrow keys to move to the next parameter.
Each parameter is described below.
• P~rameter Password. The parameter password may be up to 10 characters. The purpose of the parameter password is to limit the number of people who can change the system parameters. If this password is not entered correctly, the computer does not allow the office workstation operator to change any parameters. As a security measure, the parameter password may be changed periodically.
To change the parameter password, follow this procedure:
1. Type the old parameter and press ENI'ER.
2. Press the up arrow key to return to the Parameter Password field.
3. Type the new parameter password and press ENI'ER.
4. Exit the Parameter Password Window by pressing Fl.
• Account Number. The account number may be up to 10 digits and it is assigned by MMF personnel to identify each office workstation customer. Nonnally, this parameter will not be changed.
• MMC Password. The MMC password can be up to 10 characters. It is used in combination with the account number to sign on with the MMC. If the account number and MMC password do not match, messages cannot be sent or received. Users may change their passwords whenever they choose, but must sign on with the MMC afterwards to let the computer know the new password.
• Dial MMC Each Time? Should the office workstation dial the MMC phone number before attempting to sign on and exchange infonnation? If the office workstation is connected to the MMC by leased line, this parameter should be N (No). If the connection is not a dedicated phone line, set this parameter to Y (Yes).
• Phone #. Each time the office workstation attempts to contact the MMC, this is the phone number it requests the modem to dial. This number may be entered either with or without parentheses and dashes. For example, either 1(619)555-1212 or 16195551212 is acceptable.
There is no need to enter an area code if the MMC phone number is a local number. If a 9 must be dialed to obtain an outside line, 9K should be typed immediately before the phone number. The K instructs the Racal-Vadic modem to wait for an outside dial tone before dialing the phone number. Up to five separate phone numbers may be entered.
Request return messages? Entering Y (Yes) directs the office workstation to request all new return messages during each dialog with the MMC.
6441B, p. 3-2
Once the l\1MC has delivered the new messages to the office workstation, it does not keep a copy of them. Each return message is delivered only once. Therefore, railroad control facilities which have several office workstation systems may want to designate just one of them to receive return messages. This is done by entering Y (Yes) in the designated office workstation PC, and entering N (No) in the remaining office workstation PCs.
• Auto msg print. To direct the office workstation to print all return messages automatically when they are received, enter Y (Yes). If automatic printing is not desired, enter N (No).
NOTE
Selected messages may be printed at any time by selecting Directory from the Return Menu and then selecting Print.
• Time Zone. The MMC runs in Greenwich Mean Time, but the times reported by the office workstation are translated to the local time zone. Specify one of the following as the local time zone:
Eastern Standard Time (EST) Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) Pacific Standard Time (PST) Central Standard Time (CST) Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) Central Daylight Time (CDT) Atlantic Standard Time (AST) Mountain Standard Time (MST) Atlantic Daylight Time (ADT)
• Text and Background Color. Legal text colors are 0-15; legal background colors are 0-7. Available colors are:
0 - Black 4 - Red 8 - Dark Grey 12 - Light Red 1 - Blue 5 - Magenta 9 - Light Blue 13 - Light Magenta 2 - Green 6 - Brown 10 - Light Green 14 - Yellow 3 - Cyan 7 - Light Grey 11 - Light Cyan 15 - White
3.3 SETTING UP A TASK SCHEDULE
A schedule for automatically initiating dialogs with the l\1MC may be established using the Task Schedule option. Dialogs may be scheduled more frequently during peak hours and less frequently during slow times. A schedule may also be set for automatic system archiving and expunging of messages. Refer to 6.2 Administrative Operations (Section VI) for more information on archiving and expunging messages.
NOTE
Before setting up the Task Schedule, set the time zone in the Parameters Menu to the local time zone.
To set up a task schedule:
1. Select the Admin. Ops. from the Other Menu.
2. Select the Task Schedule option. The schedule is broken up into 2-hour blocks of time, Sunday through Saturday (refer to Figure 3-2).
6441B, p. 3-3
3. Use the arrow keys to position the cursor in the appropriate time slot and enter the data, or point to the time slot and click the left mouse button.
4. When the table is complete, press Fl to accept the task schedule.
Values which may be entered in the time slots are:
O If a zero is entered in · any of these fields, it means that no action is taken during the specified hours.
1-60 Numerical values are specified in minutes. A value of 1-60 may be entered in any of the fields. For example, if 30 is entered, the office workstation initiates a dialog with the MMC automatically every 30 minutes during the specified hours. During particularly busy hours, it may be advisable to initiate a dialog every 10 or 15 minutes.
Tasks Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
0000.0200 I 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0200-0400 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0400-0600 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0600-0800 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0800-1000 0 10 10 10 10 10 100~1200 0 15 15 15 15 15 0
1200-1400 0 30 30 30 30 30 0
1400·1600 0 10 10 10 10 0 0 1600-1800 0 45 45 45 45 30 0 1800-2000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2000-2200 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 2200-2400 0 0 0 0 0 0
o Fl-complete, ESC-abort
Figure 3-2. Task Schedule Option (with sample data)
3.4 VEHICLES DATABASE MANAGEMENT
Before the office workstation can send a message to a Mobile Communications Terminal (MCT), information on that unit must be entered in the MMC Vehicles Database. MCTs are added to the Vehicles Database in two ways:
• A new MCT is added automatically when the office workstation first receives a message from it.
An MCT may be added manually at the office workstation by explicitly creating a new MCT in the Vehicles Directory.
644 lB, p. 3-4
A message may be sent to a specific vehicle, a defined group of vehicles, or all vehicles.
A message is directed to a specific vehicle using the unique factory-assigned identification number of its MCT.
A message is directed to a group of one or more vehicles by assigning an MCT to that group.
• A message is directed to all vehicles by using the MCT number which is automatically assigned for All Vehicles.
The following paragraphs describe the procedures for manually entering MCTs into the Vehicles Database and creating MCT groups.
3.4.1 MCT Definition
The following procedure enables the manual entry of an MCT into the Vehicles Database. The database requires a name and an identification number to identify the MCT. All other requested information is optional.
1. Select Vehicles Directory from the Vehicles Menu.
The Vehicles Window appears, displaying a list of all currently defined MCTs (see Figure 3-3). Each MCT is identified by a sequential reference number, its MCT name, MMC number, and last known location. If more vehicles are defined than can fit onto the screen, use the direction keys to scroll up or down to view the additional data.
Vehicles
# Name MCTnum Last Position
1 MCT123 123 7/21 13:44 72 'WSW PITISBURGH PA
2 MCT456 456 7/21 22:15 6.7 SSE ALTOONA PA
3 MCT789 789 7/22 05:01 12.3 NNE DETROIT Ml
4 MCT012 012 7122 08:12 2.1 SS# RENO.NV
Create, Edit, Read, Print, Sensors or Delete
ESC or RETURN to abort
Figure 3-3. Vehicles Window
6441B, p. 3-5
2. Type C to create an MCT.
The Vehicle Information Window is displayed with all of the data fields that are used to identify vehicles (see Figure 3-4).
The prompt at the bottom of the window requests that data be entered into the database one item at a time. After typing the requested information, press ENrER to move to the next field. To skip a field, use the down arrow key. (Note that the MCT name and the MCT number are the only two mandatory fields.) The mouse may be used to choose a field by pointing to the field and clicking the left button.
3. When all data is entered for the current MCT, press Fl to save the data.
The MCT is now defined. It is entered into the MMC Vehicles Database the next time a dialog is initiated with the MMC.
NOTE
Information in the MCT Vehicles Database may also be edited, read, printed, or deleted.
Vehicle #12
MCT Name: Last Forward Messages: MCT Number: MCT Class: Poll Interval (hrs): Customer: Last Return Messages: Pickup Time: Destination: ETA: Group 2: Group 3: Last Known Position: Time Zone (CST, EDT, etc.): Power Down Timer (minutes): Normal Beep Period (minutes): Normal Beep Volume Bypass: Emergency Beep Period (minutes): Emergency Beep Volume Bypass: Always Request Position:
MCT Name: F1-complete, ESC to abort
Figure 3-4. Vehicle Information Window
6441B, p. 3-6
3.4.2 Vehicles Database
Much of the information that is entered in the Vehicles Database is optional. The only two items that are mandatory are the MCT name and the MCT number. Most of the options in the Vehicles Window are self-explanatory. The items which are unique to the office workstation and require more explanation are described below.
A. MCT Name. This is the name of the MCT. A value must be entered in this field. It may be entered in alphanumeric characters.
B. MCT Number. This is the number by which the MMC identifies the vehicle. This number cannot be changed. It is the same number as the serial number of the communication unit which is installed in the vehicle.
C. MCT Oass. This field is used to classify the vehicle and to associate a specific color with that vehicle when it is displayed on the map. Oass names may be up to 10 characters long. Vehicles currently may be categorized into one of 16 classes. Refer to Appendix C for more information on changing class names and the associated colors.
D. Poll Interval (hrs). This is the amount of time in hours between automatic position polls for this vehicle. When the specified time has elapsed, a position poll is initiated during the next MMC dialog.
E. Group 2 and Group 3. Two group fields are used to assign MCTs to groups by entering the appropriate group number. Each MCT may belong to as many as three different groups, one of which is always "All Vehicles." Group assignments are discussed in the following section.
F. Time Zone. This field is used to set the time zone for the MCT. The MCT operator may also change the time zone from the display unit
G. Power Down Timer is used to set the amount of time (in minutes) that the MCT remains active after the engine shuts off.
H. Normal Beep Period controls the frequency of beeps heard at the MCT when a normal message is received. The beep period is specified in minutes. The default value is set to once every five minutes. This means that when a normal message is received at the MCT, a beep is sounded every five minutes until the message is read.
I. Normal Beep Volume Bypass controls the volume of the beeps for normal messages. If this value is set to Y (Yes), then the MCT operator cannot use the volume control wheel to tum down the volume. The beeps are always played at full volume when a normal message is received.
J. Emergency Beep Period controls the frequency of beeps heard at the MCT when an emergency message is received. The beep period is specified in minutes. The default value is set to once every minute. This means that when an emergency message is received at the MCT, three beeps are sounded every minute until the message is read.
6441B, p. 3-7
K. Emergency Beep Volume Bypass controls the volume of the beeps for emergency messages. If this value is set to Y (Yes), then the MCT operator cannot use the volume control wheel to tum down the volume. The beeps are always played at full volume when an emergency message is received.
L. Always Request Position. If this value is set to Y (Yes), updated position information for each vehicle in the account is delivered automatically to the office workstation.
3.4.3 MCT Groups
The Groups option in the Vehicles Menu enables the office workstation operator to categorize vehicles into groups. Groups can be thought of as destinations (or addresses) for messages. Messages may be sent simultaneously to all vehicles in a group.
Up to 50 different groups may be specified. Each vehicle may be assigned to as many as three groups. One of these groups is always the group which contains all vehicles.
Once a group is created, the MCTs (vehicles) are assigned to it by editing the Vehicles Database. A vehicle is added or removed from a group by changing the Vehicles Database, not the group data.
3.4.3.1 Creating Groups
To create a group, follow this procedure:
I. Select Groups from the Vehicles Menu.
The Groups Window is displayed with a list of the existing groups (see Figure 3-5). Each group is identified by a sequential reference number, group name, group number, and possibly flags. The numbers are assigned by the MMC.
Group
# Name GrpNum
1 GOODGUYS 523034 2 HAZARDOUS 523035 3 TEXAS 523036
Create, Edit, Read, or Delete
I ESC or RETURN to abort I
Flags
Fleet Group
Figure 3-5. Groups Window
644 lB, p. 3-8
2. Type C to select the Create option.
The following message is displayed:
NEW GROUP NUMBERS ARE ALLOCATED BY THE MMC. DO YOU ALREADY KNOW THE GROUP NUMBER?
3. If the group number is known, press ENTER ("No" is selected by default.) If the group number is not known, type Y and press ENTER. In both cases the prompt ENTER NEW GROUP NAME: is then displayed.
4. Enter a group name and press ENTER. The name may be up to 10 characters long.
5. If Y was selected in Step 3, the prompt to enter the group number is displayed. Enter the group number and press ENTER. If Y was not selected, the user is returned to the Main Menu. The next time a dialog is initiated with the MMC, a group number is assigned.
6. The new name and number are displayed at the top of the window for review. Notice the prompt IS THIS CORRECT?
If the data just entered is not correct, type N and press ENTER. Then reenter the correct data. If the data is correct, press ENTER.
NOTE
New group numbers are not assigned until a dialog is initiated with the MMC. A message cannot be sent to a newly created group in the next MMC dialog. Refer to 2.6 Interacting with the MMC (Section II) for procedures on contacting the MMC.
3.4.3.2 Editing Groups
The name of the group may be edited using the Edit option. To access this option, follow this procedure:
1. Select Groups from the Vehicles Menu.
2. Select Edit by pressing the E key. The prompt EDIT WHICH GROUP(S)? is then displayed.
3. Type the group number(s) of the group(s) to be edited and press ENTER, or point to the group in the directory list and click the left mouse button.
4. Change the specified group name(s).
5. A system prompt is displayed requesting verification of the entry. Press ENTER if it is correct; otherwise, type N and press the ENTER key.
6441B, p. 3-9
NOTE
MCTs cannot be assigned to or deleted from groups with this option. Only the name of the group may be changed. To add ( or delete) an MCT to (or from) a group, refer to 3.4.2 Vehicles Database earlier in this section.
3.4.3.3 Reading Groups
The Read option is used to view the list of MCTs currently assigned to a group. To access this option, follow this procedure:
1. Select Groups from the Vehicles Menu.
2. Type R to select the Read option. The prompt READ WHICH GROUP(S)? is displayed.
3. Enter the group number(s) of the group(s) to be read and press ENTER, or point to the group in the directory list and click the left mouse button.
The MCTs currently assigned to the selected group are listed by name (see Figure 3-6). Press any key to return to the Main Menu.
Grouu-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GOODGUYS ( # 123456)
123 456
789 012
Press any key to continue
Figure 3-6. Group Window
6441B, p. 3-10
SECTION IV THE MESSAGING SYSTEM
4.1 INTRODUCTION
4.1.1 General
The office worlcstation can be used to create and send two types of messages to vehicles: "freefonn" and "macro." Free-fonn messages are used to send infonnation in any fonnat desired. Macro messages have preset fonnats, similar to fonn letters, and are completed by filling in the blanks. Macros are useful when the same types of messages are sent repeatedly. They may be created for both forward and return messages.
A message may be up to 1900 characters long. It may include any characters except those shown in Appendix D (Special Characters).
4.1.2 Time Stamping
When a message is sent to an MCT, it receives a time stamp from the MMC. This is the transmit time. When the MMC has received an acknowledgement from the MCT, the message receives another time stamp. This is the acknowledgement time. Both of these time stamps appear in the Forward Message Directory. In the Return Message Directory, only time message received is shown.
4.2 SENDING MESSAGES
4.2.1 Creating a Message
In sending a free-fonn or macro message, the first step is to create the message text. Once the message is created, it is added to the queue of messages to be sent to the MMC. When the next MMC dialog is initiated, the message is sent
To create a message, the following procedure is used:
1. Select Create Msg from the Forward Menu.
The office worlcstation displays a New Message Data Window which asks for the message destination. (See Figure 4-1)
6441B, p. 4-1
"": New Message Data----------------. Destination: Macro: 0 Return receipt: N
Destination: F1-complete, ESC-abort I Figure 4-1. New Message Data Window
2. Enter the MCT name and press ENTER.
The MCT number, a group name, or a group number may be entered instead. If a group name or number is entered, the message is sent to the vehicles in the specified group.
NOTE
After a valid destination is entered, press the Fl key to accept the system defaults of the remaining fields and begin creating a message. The system defaults include a free-fmm message with nonnal priority and no return receipt.
3. Press ENTER to select the free-fonn message or type the number of the macro to be sent.
4. Type Y and press ENTER to receive notification when the MCT operator has displayed the message on the MCT display unit; otherwise, press ENTER.
5. Type the message text in the New Message Window or fill in the blanks of the macro message.
The Forward Message Window displays the MCT number, the date and time the message is being created, and the present status of the message for the sender's reference (see Figure 4-2).
644 lB, p. 4-2
-;:::: Fwd Message
MCT Name: 999 MCT ADDA: 999 Time: 07-25-89 2:36 Status -> Not Sent
ESC to abort
-;::: New Message ==========::;,
Figure 4-2. New Message Window
6. When the message is complete, press Fl to save it.
7. The message is not sent to the specified MCT until a dialog is initiated with the MMC. See 2.6 Interacting with the MMC (Section II) for directions on how to contact the MMC.
4.2.2 Abandoning or Altering the Message
Before a message is saved (step 7 above), it may be abandoned or altered. The procedures for both operations are similar:
To abandon the message, press ESC from the New Message Window rather than pressing Fl. To confinn the abandonment, type Y and ENTER. The message is erased and the Main Menu is displayed.
To alter the message, press ESC from the New Message Window rather than pressing Fl. Press ENTER. The preceding screen will appear and work on the message may be continued.
4.2.3 Editing Messages
While a message is being typed, it may be edited to include hard returns or to correct mistakes.
To insert a hard return, press ENTER at the end of the line. A small triangle appears to indicate the hard return. (Hard returns are needed only to indicate paragraph breaks and for other special circumstances. It is not necessary to type ENTER at the end of each line to "wrap" the text. This is done automatically.)
• In a macro, ·use the TAB or arrow keys to move from one highlighted area to the next until all the data is typed and the message is ready to be saved.
6441B, p. 4-3
• To correct mistakes, use the direction keys to position the cursor, then press either the DELETE or BACKSPACE key. Refer to 2.5.3 Direction Keys (Section II) for instructions on using the direction keys.
4.2.4 Passwords (Free-Form Messages)
One or more passwords may be inserted in a f01ward message to ensure the privacy of sensitive infonnation. If password is inserted in a message, when the MCT operator reads the message, a blank surrounded by carets (") is displayed. The MCT operator must enter the password before the remaining portion of the message is displayed.
To insert a password in a free-fonn message, follow the procedure outlined below:
I. While creating a message, position the cursor where the password is to be inserted.
2. Press FIO to display the New Message Data Window.
3. Type the password and press the ENTER key.
4. Press Fl to confinn the entry.
The password should be inserted in the message text with carets around the actual password.
4.3 READING RETURN MESSAGES
Each time a dialog is initiated with the MMC, any return messages stored in the MMC are sent to the office workstation. These messages may be reviewed at any time.
The message status in the Return Message Directory may be in one of two states (refer to Figure 4-3).
R Indicates the message has been read.
NR Indicates the message has not been read.
The following procedure is used to review messages:
1. Select Directory from the Return Menu.
The Return Messages Window is displayed with a list of messages (refer to Figure 4-3). Messages are identified by a sequential reference number, macro number (if applicable), message status, MCT number of the originating vehicle, date and time the message was received, and the first few words of the message.
If more messages are in the directory than can be presented on the screen, the word <more> is displayed. The direction keys can be used to scroll the display and view the additional messages.
6441B, p. 4-4
Return Messages
Mac Msg Mobile Receive Message # ro# Stat Unit# Date Time
4 NR 123 08/01/89 11:17 WEATHER GETTING BAD 5 12 R 456 08/02/89 08:47 ESTIMATED TIME OF 6 7 NR 789 08/02/89 18:15 ENGINE TROUBLE ON 7 NR 012 08/03/89. 07:33 WORK CREW ON
Delete, Read, Print, or Archive:_
ESC or RETURN to abort
Figure 4-3. Return Messages Directory Window
2. Type R to Read the message.
The prompt READ MESSAGE(S): _ is displayed.
3. Enter the number of the message(s) to be read and press ENTER.
The Return Message Window is then displayed with the reference number of the message, the MCT name, the MCT number, the date and time received, and the status (see Figure 4-4). The complete text of the message is displayed in the Message Window. A highlighted message near the bottom of the screen prompts the reader to PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE... Most keys cause the next selected message to appear. If no other messages have been selected, the Main Menu appears.
Rtn Message 24====:::;i
MCT Name: 123 MCT Addr: 123 Time: 03-09-89 Status- > Return Message 11.94 NNW of Boise, ID GRMN: 119572
Mess.ig~ ==========~
HIGH WIND SPEEDS DETECTED
Press any key to continue ...
Figure 4-4. Return Message Window
6441B, p. 4-5
4.4 REPLYING TO A RETURN MESSAGE
When reading a return message, a reply may be sent automatically. With the message text displayed on the screen, press the R key to compose a reply to the currently displayed message. Once the reply is queued, the next message in the selected sequence appears, or the Main Menu appears if no messages remain to be read.
4.5 DELETING MESSAGES
Both forward and return messages may be deleted when saving is no longer desired. Messages may be deleted either before or after they are read.
4.5.1 Deleting Messages from the Directory
The following procedure is used to delete messages:
I. Select Directory from the Return or Forward Menu.
2. Select Delete by pressing the D key. A prompt appears asking which messages are to be deleted.
3. Type the reference number(s) of the message(s) to be deleted and press ENTER.
4.5.2 Marking Messages for Deletion
Messages may also be marked for deletion while they are being read. Press the D key when the message text is displayed to mark the current message for deletion. When all of the selected messages have been displayed, the reader is prompted to confirm the list of messages about to be deleted.
4.6 PRINTING MESSAGES
The following procedure is used to obtain a printout of any forward or return message:
I. Select Directory from the Forward or Return Menu.
2. Select Print. A prompt appears asking which message(s) are to be printed.
3. Type the appropriate reference number(s) and press ENTER. A copy of the selected message(s) is printed and the Main Menu is displayed.
4.7 ARCIDVING MESSAGES
Old messages no longer needed in the office workstation program may be archived to an ASCII file. (ASCII files are readable, as opposed to the indexed, compressed binary files used in normal office workstation operation.)
644 lB, p. 4-6
Messages may be archived weekly, monthly, or at other convenient intervals and then copied onto floppy disks. This keeps the hard disk from becoming too full. Archived files may be read by any computer that runs PC-DOS. Procedures for archiving old messages are described in detail in 6.1.3 (Section VI).
4.8 -EDITING FORWARD MESSAGES
Forward messages may be modified after they are created and saved. The following procedure is used to edit forward messages:
1. Select Directory from the Forward Menu.
2. Select Edit by pressing the E key. A prompt appears asking which message(s) are to be edited.
3. Select the message(s) to edit.
4. The office workstation displays the Message Data Window.
5. Modify the Destination and Return Receipt if necessary. The Macro Number may not be changed.
6. Press Fl, or press Enter at the Return Receipt field when the information in the Message Data Window is correct.
7. Modify the message text in the Message Window or change the contents of the macro fields.
8. When the message is complete, press Fl to save it.
9. The prompt, Delete the old version? --> appears on the screen. Press N and ENTER to save this as a new message, or Y and ENTER to overwrite the existing messages with the current data. The message is not sent to the specified MCT until a dialog is initiated with the MMC.
4.9 SELECTING MESSAGES
Messages to be edited, read, deleted, printed, or archived may be selected from the directory individually or in groups. The following techniques are used.
NOTE
Most of these selection techniques also apply to the Macros Directory, the MCT Directory, the Groups Directory, and the Landmarks Directory. (The U and V techniques apply only to the Messages Directories.)
6441B, p. 4-7
• Type the reference number of the message to see a single message (e.g .• "4" to see message 4).
• Type a series of numbers separated by commas to see several messages (e.g .• "3,4,7,8" to see messages 3, 4, 7. and 8).
• Type the start and end numbers separated by a colon to see a range of messages (e.g .• "4:12" to see messages 4 through 12).
• Use a combination of these formats (e.g., "3,6:9,12,15" to see messages 3, 6 through 9, 12, and 15).
• Type U to read all unread messages.
• Type V (Vehicle Name) to read all messages from a particular vehicle.
Type A to read all messages in the directory.
• Use the mouse to point to a message in the directory list Using the left mouse button, drag the mouse up or down the directory list The directory list will scroll when the top or bottom of the directory display is reached. When all the desired messages are highlighted, release the button.
4.10 WORKING WITH MACROS
The office workstation allows the creation of up to 63 different forward macro templates and 63 return macro templates. Using macros involves three procedures: creating the macro templates, filling in the blanks, and actually sending the macro template to the MMC and vehicle.
A forward message may have an associated return macro template. This return template provides a standard format for the vehicle operator's response. When the forward message is sent to the vehicle, the associated return macro template is displayed automatically when the MCT operator presses the REPLY key.
NOTE
Before creating a message using a newly created macro template, a dialog must be initiated with the MMC. This allows the MMC to assign a version number to the template and to send the template to the vehicles. If an attempt is made to create a message that uses a new template, the office workstation responds with the message MACRO VERSION UNKNOWN BY MMC and does not allow the creation of the message.
6441B, p. 478
4.10.1 Creating Forward Macro Templates
The following procedure is used in creating forward macro templates:
1. Select Macros from the Forward Menu.
The Forward Macro Window is displayed with a list of the current macro templates (see Figure 4-5). For each template listed. the window displays a reference number, a version number. the date and time the template was created. the name assigned to it, the number of times it has been used. and the first few words of the template itself. If more messages exist than can fit onto one screen, the word <more> is displayed at the bottom of the list. Use the direction keys to scroll up or down to see the additional templates.
Forward Macros----------------------,
# Vsn Created Name XUsed Template
1 t 07115189 17:22 OFF DUTY 6 PLEASE GO OFF DUTY UNTIL 2 1 07118/89 12:48 CAR PM 2 CAR PM SCHEDULED 3 3 07/25189 08:18 UPDATE ETA PLEASE UPDATE ESTIMATED 4 2 08/02189 10:37 VERIFY ORDER 4 PLEASE VERIFY ORDER FOR 5 1 08/09/89 14:11 TRAIN CREW TRAIN CREW NUMBER
Create, Ed~. Read. Prinl or Delete:_ .-
ESC or RETURN to abort
Figure 4-5. Forward Macros Window (Part 1)
2. Select Create by typing C.
The prompt ENTER NEW MACRO NUMBER: is then displayed.
3. Type the number of a non-existing macro between I and 63 and press ENTER.
The number entered is used to identify the macro template being created. Normally, this is the next number in sequence from the previous macro template. However, any number (up to 63) may be used. The Macro Information Window is then displayed and prompts for the macro name (see Figure 4-6).
644 IB, p. 4-9
--= Macro Information
Enter macro ·name:
Figure 4-6. Macro Information Window (Part 1)
4. Type any name (up to 14 characters) and press ENfER.
Enter a name that will help identify the template quickly. The name will be displayed when a macro number is chosen in the message creation process.
The Macro Information Window changes and displays the prompt ENfER ASSOCIATED RETURN MACRO NUMBER: (see Figure 4-7).
-= Macro Information ==========================~
Macro name: CAR PM
Enter associated return macro number: D
Figure 4-7. Macro Information Window (Part 2)
5. Type the number (between 1 and 63) of the associated return macro template and press ENfER. (If an associated return macro is not desired, just press ENfER.)
The Foiward Macros Window is displayed (see Figure 4-8).- This window describes the template by macro number, macro name, version, type of message, number of times used, and associated return macro number. It also contains a Message Window where the text for the template can be entered.
6441B, p. 4-10
Forward Macros ----------------------,
Fwd Macro #2, CAR PM
Unknown to NMC Never Defined
~Message==============:;,
Used: Never Assoc. w/ #14
Press F1 to save and exit ESC to abort
Figure 4-8. Forward Macros Window (Part 2)
6. Type the text of the template in the Message Window. To leave a blank in the text of the template, either access the Macro Field Types Window by pressing FIO or enter the blanks manually. To access the Macro Field Types, refer to the next section.
To enter blanks manually, type underscore symbols where the blanks are to appear. This is done by holding down SHIFf and pressing Underscore (located just to the right of the O key at the top of the keyboard). A highlighted space is displayed, indicating where the blanks have been inserted. Later, when this macro template is used, the highlighted areas indicate where data is to be entered.
7. Continue to create macro fields until the macro is complete. (Figure 4-9 shows a typical macro template as it appears in the Message Window just prior to being saved.)
-= Message
CAR PM SCHEDULED FOR:
DATE DI DI D I
TIME O · 0 I
Figure 4-9. Message Window
6441B, p. 4-11
8. When the template is typed correctly, press Fl to save it
9. Send the macro template to the MMC and vehicles by initiating a dialog. Refer to 2.6 Interacting with the MMC (Section II).
4.10.2 Macro Field Types
Facilities with a mainframe computer or other networking system can take advantage of the Macro Field Types option in developing field entries for forward or return macros. (Otherwise, blanks must be entered manually as described above.)
Each macro field type specifies the type of characters that may be entered in a macro. For example, some types accept only alphabetic or only numeric characters.
Using the Macro Field Types option eliminates the need to type individual blank spaces in the macro. It also simplifies the deletion of macro entries, and provides the MCT operator with clues about the information required in the macro.
4.10.2.1 Using Macro Field Types
To use Macro Field Types in creating a macro, follow this procedure:
1. Type the text message for the first lines of the macro (refer to Figure 4-10). Do not add the blank spaces; this is done using the Macro Field Types Menu. With the cursor placed where the first blank is to appear, press FlO (refer to step 6 of 4.10.1 Creating Forward Macro Templates).
2. As shown in Figure 4-10, when FlO is pressed, the Macro Field Types Menu is displayed. Select the desired field type from the menu.
3. Type the field type number and press ENTER. This specifies the type of characters that may be entered. For example, to specify the Time (12hr) macro field type, enter 10.
4. Enter the field width and press ENTER. The specified number of blank spaces is entered in the macro. In some cases only a limited number of characters is accepted or a specified character width is required. For example, the Social Security field type requires that 11 characters be entered.
5. Enter the remaining information if appropriate; otherwise press ENTER to complete the macro field.
The Mandatory field only applies to return macros (macros that the MCT operator completes). If a field is specified as mandatory, the MCT operator must complete the field before sending the macro.
Delete is used to delete a field type that was entered in a macro. To delete the field type, position the cursor somewhere within the blank, and then enter Y in the Delete field.
6441B, p. 4-12
Macro Information ================================:-i
Forward Field Type: O Free-form Field Width: 1 Mandatory: N Delete: N
Ir Fwd II Unkn l.!::====F=ie=ld==T~yp=e=:=c[J~~======~=F=-=1=c=o=m=p=le=te=E=S=C=-=a=bo=rt==~':!J------il
Field Types ========================================================:::;,
O Free Form 1 Alphabetic 2 Unsigned Integer 3 Full-Width Integer 4 Signed Integer 5 Alphanumeric 6 Real Number 7 Monetary 8 Date mmtdd/yy 9 Date mmtdd 10 Time (12 hr) 11 Time (24) 12 Phone# 13 Phone# (Area Code) 14 Zip Code 15 Extended Zip Code
16 Yes/No 17 Weekdays 18 Months 19 Status 20 Item List 21 Integer Range 22 Social Security # 23 24 25
Figure 4-10. Macro Field Types Menu
4.10.2.2 Macro Field Type Descriptions
99 Password
The Macro Field Types Menu contains the following macro field types. The parameters of each type are described below.
Free-Fonn. Accepts any alphabetic, numeric, or special character.
Field Length 1-38 characters Example:
HIGH WIND SPEEDS DETECTED. WIND GUSTS AT 60 MPH.
6441B, p. 4-13
Alphabetic. Accepts only alphabetic characters. The characters do not have to fill the entire field, and there car. be leading and trailing spaces. There may not be any blank spaces, however, imbedded within the characters.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: A ABC ABC ABC ABC
Unsigned Integer. Accepts numbers, but a positive or a negative sign may not be specified. The characters do not have to fill the entire field, and there can be leading and trailing spaces. There may not be any blank spaces, however, imbedded within the characters.
Field Length: Examples:
1-38 1 123 123 123 1234
Full-Width Integer. Accepts only numbers without positive or negative signs, and the entire field must be filled out. For example, if a Full-Width Integer field type is specified with a width of 5 characters, all 5 characters must be filled out.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: 1 123 1234567890
Signed Integer. Accepts numbers with positive or negative signs. The characters do not have to fill the entire field, and there can be leading and trailing spaces. There may not be any blank spaces, however, imbedded within the characters.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: +1 -2 +1234 -1234 -1234 1234
Alphanumeric. Accepts a combination of alphabetic and numeric characters. The characters do not have to fill the entire field, there can be leading and trailing spaces, and there may be blank spaces imbedded within the characters.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: A 1 ABC123 A BC123 ABC 123
A BCl 23 ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXZ1234567890
Real Numbers. Accepts numbers with decimal points and positive and negative signs. The decimal point is optional. The characters do not have to fill the entire field, and there can be leading and trailing spaces. There may not be any blank spaces, however, imbedded within the characters.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: 3.14159 .717 1000000. 747 +99.99 -99.99 99.99
6441B, p. 4-14
_.,.-,-,,.
Monetary. Used for entering dollar amounts. The dollar sign is inserted automatically as the first character and the last three ch~cters are the decimal point and the cents digits.
Field Length: 4-38 Examples: $25.99 $ .99 $ 25.99 $ .01 $000.01 $1234567890.00.
Date (rnrn/dd/yy). Used to enter a date in the month, day, and year format
Field Length: 8 Examples: 11(23/89 09/ITT /89 9/ 7 /89 9 n /89
Date (rnrn/dd). Used to enter a date in the month and day format.
Field Length: 5 Examples: 11(23 2{29 4/1
Time (12hr). Used to enter the time in the 12-hour cycle.
Field Length: 6 Examples: 10:45A 08:05P 8:05P
Time (24hr). Used to enter the time in the 24-hour cycle.
Field Length: 5 Examples: 23:59 03:05 3:05
Phone #. Used to enter the phone number without the area code.
Field Length: 8 Examples: 587-1121 541-7490
Phone # (Area Code). Used to enter the phone number with the area code required.
Field Length: 12 Examples: 619-587-1121 800-541-7490
Zip Code. Used to enter the 5-digit zip code.
Field Length: 5 Examples: 92121 10101
6441B, p. 4-15
Extended Zip Code. Used to enter a zip code with a 4-digit extension.
Field Length: 10 Examples: 92121-1234 10101-0323
Yes/No. Only accepts a Y or an N response. The valid options can be selected using the + or - keys.
Field Length: 1 Examples: Y N
Weekdays. Used to enter abbreviations for the days of the week: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, and Sat.
Field Length: 3 Examples: TUE THU
Months. Used to enter abbreviations for the months of the year: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, and Dec. The valid options may be selected using the + or -key to scroll through the list.
Field Length: 3 Examples: FEB NOV
States. Used to enter the 2-character abbreviation for the 50 state names.
Field Length: 2 Examples: CA WI MO
Item List Used to provide the MCT operator with a list of items from which to choose. Items cannot contain imbedded commas or parentheses.
Field Length: 1-38 Examples: CAUSE OF DELAY:_ (A,W,T,0)
RISK: (H,L) TYPE OF SHIPMENT: (RICE.BEANS.PEAS) RPM:_(16,33,45,78) COLORS: (RED, BLUE, YELLOW, GREEN, VIOLET, ORANGE, PINK, WHITE, BLACK, GREY, BEIGE, LT BLUE, NAVY)
Integer Range. Used to create a macro with a range of integers. A dash is used to separate the smallest and the largest integer.
Field Length: 1-10 Examples: VEHICLE#:__ (1-77)
STOPS REMAINING:_ (0-5) CAR ID: (10000-99999)
64418, p. 4-16
Social Security. Used to specify a social security number.
Field Length: Example:
11 245-87-1424
4.10.2.3 Specifying Passwords
234-56-7890
Passwords may be used to specify that the MCT operator enter a password before he or she can read a forward message. The password must be entered each time the message is read, preventing anyone who is not authorized from reading it.
To specify a password macro field type, follow the procedure outlined below:
1. Follow the procedure for 4. 10.1 Creating Forward Macro Templates as described above.
2. Enter the message text, if any, that is to appear before the blanks for the password.
3. Press Fl 0.
4. Specify field type 99.
5. Enter the character width for the password.
6. Press Fl.
7. Complete the macro as necessary.
8. Send the macro definition to the vehicles.
The exact characters that must be entered by the MCT operator are specified when the message is created using this macro.
NOTE
One or more password fields may also be entered in a free-form message. For more information, refer to the section entitled 4.2.4 Passwords (Free-Form Messages). In addition, a password may be inserted in an alphabetic or free-form field when creating a message using a macro template by following the same procedure that is described in the 4.2.4 Password (Free-Form Messages) section.
4.10.3 Creating Return Macro Templates
A return macro template is a formatted message that the vehicle operator is to use. The procedure for creating a return macro template is identical to the procedure for creating a forward macro template, except that the procedure is started by selecting Macros from the Return Menu. The various windows that are displayed are identical to the forward macro creation windows, except that they are identified as return macro windows. Refer to the procedure in 4.10.1 Creating Forward Macro Templates for instructions.
6441B, p. 4-17
4.10.4 Editing Macro Templates
Macro templates can be edited by selecting Macros from the Forward (or Return) Menu, and then typing E (for Edit). At the prompt, select the appropriate macro template(s) to be edited. The Macro Information Window is displayed (see Figure 4-11).
Macro Information---------------,
Macro name: .... ! ___ __ Associated macro: D
Enter macro name:
Figure 4-11. Macro Information Window
The current macro name and the associated macro number is displayed along with the prompt ENTER MACRO NAME. This prompt provides an opportunity to change the name of the selected macro template. If a new macro name is desired, type it and press ENTER. If editing a Forward Macro, this prompt appears: ENTER THE ASSOCIATED MACRO NUMBER. If a new associated macro template is desired, type the number of the new template and press ENTER.
The current formatted text of the selected macro template is then displayed. Editing changes may be made manually or by using the Macro Field Types Menu (Figure 4-10). When editing is complete, press Fl to save the newly formatted template for future use.
4.10.5 Reading Macro Templates
The text of any forward (or return) macro template can be read by selecting Macros from the Forward (or Return) Menu, and then typing R (for Read). At the prompt, select the appropriate number(s) of the macro template(s) to be read.
The macro template(s) selected are displayed for review. To view the next selected template, press any key.
For alternate selection methods, refer to 4.9 Selecting Messages. All of the methods apply except U and V.
4.10.6 Printing Macro Templates
Any macro template(s) can be printed by selecting Macros from the Forward (or Return) Menu, and then typing P (for Print). At the prompt, type the appropriate number(s) of the template(s) to be printed and press ENTER. A copy of each macro template selected is printed.
For alternate selection methods, refer to 4.9 Selecting Messages. All of the methods apply except U and V.
6441B, p. 4-18
------.,
4.10.7 Deleting Macro Templates
Any macro template(s) can be deleted by selecting Macros from the Forward (or Return) Menu, and then typing D (for Delete). At the prompt, enter the appropriate number(s) of the template(s) to deleted and press ENTER. The selected macro template(s) is deleted from the system.
For alternate selection methods, refer to 4.9 Selecting Messages. All of the methods apply except U and V.
644IB, p. 4-19
.---""
5.1 INTRODUCTION
SECTION V POSITION INFORMATION
Besides sending and receiving messages, the office workstation ·can also track the location of each MCT unit. The system can locate an MCT by latitude and longitude, by specifying the direction and distance from a known landmark, or by displaying the position of the vehicle graphically on a map of the United States. This section describes the various ways of obtaining position infonnation.
By default, Satel-Link initiates a position poll automatically once every four hours. (This value may be changed by editing the Vehicles Database.) On the next sign on, the position poll is sent, and a position update is sent during the following dialog.
5.2 LANDMARKS
The office workstation has an extensive library of landmarks of cities and towns. When Landmarks is selected from the Other Menu, the Landmarks Window is displayed, showing all previously defined landmarks (see Figure 5-1). If there are more landmarks than can be displayed, the word <more> is displayed. Use PGUP and PGDN to move between the screen displays.
Additional landmarks may also be defined. Once defined, any landmark may be edited, deleted, or printed. The following procedures describe how to create, edit, delete, and print landmarks.
Landmarks------------------------,
# Name latitude Longitude
1 Hump Yard, PA 40"41'30"N ao0 os·4s·w
Create. Edit. Read, Print, or Delete_
ESC or RETURN to abort
Figure 5-1. Landmarks Window
6441B, p. 5-1
5.2.1 Creating Landmarks
The following procedure is used to create a landmarlc:
1. Select Landmarks from the Other Menu.
2. Select Create from the Landmarlcs Window by typing C.
The Location Infonnation Window is displayed and prompts for the name of the new landmark. (see Figure 5-2).
""'= Location information
Enter location name: !._-_-________ ...,
Figure 5-2. Location Information Window (Part 1)
3. Type the name of the new landmark. and press ENTER. If the state where the landmark. is located is not specified, the office workstation requests it.
The Location Inf onnation Window now displays the name of the new landmark and prompts for the latitude and longitude in degrees, minutes, and seconds (see Figure 5-3). As each new location component is typed and entered into the system, it is displayed for review. After all the data is entered and confinned, the Main Menu is displayed.
Location information
HUMP YARD, PA
Latitude in degrees: GJ
Figure 5-3. Location Information Window (Part 2)
6441B, p. 5-2
NOTE
If the L key is pressed when reviewing messages from the MCT, the location associated with that message may be entered into the Landmarlcs Database. After L is pressed, the office worlcstation requests the landmark name (including the state abbreviation), and then displays the landmark name with the latitude and longitude to confinn that the data is correct before adding it to the Landmarks Database.
5.2.2 Editing Landmarks
To edit landmarlcs, select Landmarks from the Other Menu, and type E (for Edit). The prompt EDIT WHICH LANDMARK(S): is displayed. Select the landmark(s) to be edited. A window is then displayed which allows the landmark to be edited. More than one landmark may be edited in one session.
5.2.3 Deleting Landmarks
To delete a landmark, select Landmarks from the Other Menu, and type D (for Delete). The office worlcstation prompts for the number of the landmark to be deleted. Select the landmark(s) to be deleted. The selected landmark is deleted from the system. More than one landmark may be deleted in one session.
5.2.4 Printing Landmarks
To obtain a printout of a landmark, select Landmarlcs from the Other Menu, and type P (for Print). The office worlcstation prompts for the number of the landmark to be printed. Select the landmark(s) to be printed. A copy of each landmark selected is printed. More than one landmark may be printed in one session.
53 DISPLAYING MCT (VEHICLE) LOCATIONS
To display the location of any MCT (vehicle), select "Where is# ... " from the Vehicles Menu. The Position Window is displayed, and prompts for the MCT name or number. Type the MCT name or number and press ENTER. The Position Window displays the most recent location of the vehicle (see Figure 5-4). The latitude and longitude are displayed along with the distance to the nearest city and the distance to the nearest large city. User-defined landmarks are treated as large cities. If a destination has been specified for the MCT in the Vehicles Database, the distance to that destination is also displayed. (Refer to the Vehicles Database parameters.)
The office workstation then provides the opportunity to request the distance from the selected vehicle to any other city. Type in a city name and press ENTER to display the distance to that city. The office workstation then asks POLL VEHICLE'S POSITION AT NEXT SIGNON?. Type Y and press ENTER to request that a position poll be sent to the specified vehicle during the next MMC dialog. A position update should be displayed during the following dialog.
6441B, p. 5-3
-= Position of 123
Tue Aug 02 13:55:15 1989 40°41'30"N 8Q0 05'45'W 4.36 W of Mars, PA 18.09 NNW of Pittsburgh, PA
Distance to: ._! _----------~1 ESC to abort.
Figure 5-4. Position Window
5.4 DISPLAYING MCT (VEHICLE) POSITION HISTORY
To display the recent position history of any MCT (vehicle):
1. Select Position History from the Vehicles Menu.
The Unit to Track Window is displayed, and prompts for the name or number of the MCT to be tracked (see Figure 5-5).
= Unit to track =======i
MCT -> '~---......
ESC to abort
Figure 5-5. Unit to Track Window
2. Type the name or number of the MCT and press ENTER.
A prompt appears asking whether the positions are to be listed with respect to landmarks. If Y is entered, the positions are listed with respect to the closest landmark to the MCT. If N is entered, the positions are listed by latitude and longitude. Up to 100 of the most recent locations can be displayed. Use the direction keys to scroll the display.
6441B, p. 5-4
The office workstation keeps the last 100 positions for each vehicle. The graphic representation on the map can display the whole track while the Position History Window is on. To display the map press FS and then press the > key to reveal successively older positions. Each time > is pressed, up to 20 additional positions may be displayed. Press < to delete the positions.
5.5 DISPLAYING UNITS NEAR A LANDMARK
The office workstation can display the number and name of vehicles located within a specified distance of a specified landmark, and can also send messages to any vehicle within the specified distance. The following procedure is used:
I. Select "Units near ... " from the Vehicles Menu.
The Proximity Window is displayed, and prompts for the landmark of interest (see Figure 5-6).
-= Proximity
Who is near: ! .... -_________ _. j ESC to abort
Figure 5-6. Proximity Window (Part I)
2. Type the name of a landmark and press ENTER. If the complete landmark name is not entered, the office workstation displays the prompt CITIES WITH SIMILAR NAMES and a list of cities to choose from. For example, if Baltimore is entered, the office workstation asks for a choice between Baltimore, OH or Baltimore, MD.
The Proximity Window then changes, and prompts for the distance (in miles) from the landmark for which the search is requested (see Figure 5-7).
3. Type in the desired number of miles and press ENTER.
The office workstation then displays a list of vehicles within the specified radius of the selected landmark. Each vehicle is identified by a sequential reference number, its MCT number, and the location of the vehicle.
A prompt appears: ENTER THE NUMBER OF THE DESIRED UNIT.·
644 IB, p. 5-5
--:: Proximity
How many miles from Baltimore, MD:
ESC to abort
Figure 5-7. Proximity Window (Part 2)
4. The prompt provides the option of sending a message to a vehicle. If this option is not desired, press ENTER. If this option is desired, enter the reference number of the vehicle to be contacted. The New Message Data Window is displayed. Follow nonnal procedures to send a message to the selected unit.
5.6 DISPLAYING VEHICLE LOCATIONS GRAPHICALLY (MAPPING)
The position of all vehicles may be displayed graphically by selecting the office workstation mapping function. This function displays the position of each vehicle on a map of the United States. The vehicles are indicated by the vehicle number and the vehicles may be color-coded by classification. The map also displays state borders and highways.
The mapping function is selected by pressing F5. When this key is pressed, the map is centered on the vehicle or area that was involved in the last office workstation operation prior to selecting the map display. For example, if a message was sent to vehicle #10, then vehicle #10 is centered on the map. Likewise, if a search was conducted for vehicles near Chicago, then Chicago is centered.
5.6.1 Viewing the Map
The following keys can be used when the map is displayed:
+, I -, 0 Arrows Home c L M A H T
F5 (ESC)
Zoom in on the map. Zoom out on the map. Pan across the map or up and down it. Display the entire continental United States. Display city names. Press C again to remove them. Display road labels. Press L again to remove them. Display landmark names. Press M again to remove them. Display the map with raillines shown. Display the map with highways shown. Display time stamp positions. Press F9 to display a summary of these functions while the map is displayed. Return to the Main Menu or previous display.
6441B, p. 5-6
PgDn Page down a screenful of the display. PgUp Page up a screenful of the display.
See 2.5.6 Using the Mouse to learn how the mouse is used with the map.
5.6.2 Printing the Map Display
A copy of the map display may be printed in one of two fonns. One form is more detailed and takes longer to print. The other fonn is less detailed but prints more quickly. To print the map, a command must first be entered from the map display. A file is then created with the map display. Each time a map file is created, the number of the file is incremented by 1 (e.g., mapO, mapl, map2, etc.). Printing the file requires exiting from the office workstation and using a DOS command.
To print the map display, follow this procedure:
1. With the map displayed, press p for a more detailed map or P for the quick print.
2. Select Quit from the Other Menu.
3. At the C:\5TLLNK>prompt, type "copy map# pm:/b", (where# is the number of the file).
4. When the file is printed, delete the file by typing "del map#" (where # is the number of the file).
6441B, p. 5-7
6.1 MANAGING MESSAGES
SECTION VI SYSTEM MANAGEMENT
This section describes the procedures for managing the message directories. Forward and return messages are stored in the Foiward or Return Directory for future access. Since the storage capacity of the directories is limited, procedures have been developed for managing these messages.
NOTE
The directories can be viewed by selecting Directory from either the Forward or the Return Menu. (See Figure 6-1, Foiward Messages Window, for an example of a Forward Directory and Figure 4-3, Return Messages Directory Window, for an example of a Return Directory.)
Forward Messages
Mac Msg Mobile Transmit GFMNorAck # ro# Stat Unit# Date& Time Date& Time ----3 5 A 123 07 /24/89 05:31 89-07-24 05:34
4 A 456 07/26/89 12:12 89-07-26 12:20 5 s 789 08/16/8923:11 1154268
6 2 f,,6 012 07/28/8916:43
Delete, Edit, Cancel, Read, Print, or Archive_
ESC or RETURN to abort j
Message
SLOW TO_ SPEED DIVERT SHIPMENT
PLEASE ADVISE US CAR PM IS
Figure 6-1. Forward Messages Window
The directories display one line for each message. Each line contains identifying data about the message, including a reference number, the macro number (if applicable), the message status, the source or destination address (MCT name), the date and time the message was created (or received), and the first few words of the message. The Forward Message Directory also displays the GFMN (Global Forward Message Number) assigned by the MMC or the date and time the message was acknowledged by the MCT.
6441B, p. 6-1
6.1.1 Message Status
For forward messages, the status column is coded as follows:
NS Not sent S Sent but not acknowledged A Acknowledged by the MCT AR Acknowledged and return receipt acknowledged NA Not acknowledged OK Group message has been sent MU Bad mobile unit number F Failed to send CN Canceled M? MMC does not recognize that macro UF Unspecified failure RJ Rejected by the MMC
For return messages, the status column is coded as follows:
R NR
Read Not Read
6.1.2 Canceling Messages
If a mistake is discovered in a message that has been sent to the MMC for transmission to a vehicle, an attempt can be made to cancel it before it is sent to the MCT. If the attempt is made in time, the canceled message is not send to the MCT. However, there is no guarantee that the erroneous message has not been sent to the MCT through a previous transmission.
To cancel a message, select Directory from the Forward Menu, and then select Cancel by typing C. At the prompt, select the message(s) to be canceled. The selected message is marked for cancelation. The next time a dialog is initiated with the MMC, the message is canceled.
6.1.3 Archiving Old Messages
Old messages no longer needed in the office workstation directory may be deleted or archived to an ASCII file. (ASCII files are readable, unlike the indexed, compressed binary files used in normal office workstation operation.)
Archive files may be read by any computer that runs PC-DOS. Suggested archive file names are FMSGLOG.TXT for forward messages and RMSGLOG.TXT for return messages. Very old messages are automatically archived to these files (in SO-message blocks) if the maximum message storage capacity is reached (9600 messages each for forward and return messages).
It is recommended that messages be archived manually, rather than waiting for the office workstation to do it automatically. Messages may be archived weekly, monthly, or at other convenient intervals, and then copied onto floppy disks so the hard disk does not fill up.
Manual archiving is done by selecting Directory from the Forward (or Return) Menu and then selecting Archive by typing A. At the prompt, indicate which message(s) are to be archived.
6441B, p. 6-2
6.2 ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS
The office workstation provides five menu options that facilitate certain administrative operations within the system. These operations include Sort Vehicles, Expunge Message Files, Fwd Msg Repair, Rtn Msg Repair, and Task Schedule. Each of these operations is described below.
6.2.1 Sort Vehicles
The Sort Vehicles option reorders the vehicle list by vehicle name. The option is exercised by selecting the Admin. Ops. option under the Other Menu and then highlighting Sort Vehicles and pressing the ENfER key. All vehicles appearing in the vehicle list are sorted in numeric/ alphabetical order by vehicle name after this option has been selected.
6.2.2 Expunge Message Files
Forward and return messages are kept in indexed, compressed binary files for fast access by the office workstation PC. When a message is deleted, it is marked "deleted," but the space it uses on the disk is not reclaimed. This causes wasted space in the office workstation message files. A special operation called Expunge Messages reclaims the disk space used by deleted messages. It compresses the index structure and squeezes out unused message space. Messages are automatically expunged when a large number of messages are deleted. Expunging may also be initiated by following the procedure below:
1. Select the Admin. Ops. option from the Other Menu.
2. Highlight Expunge Message and then press ENTER. All messages marked "deleted" are erased and the message file is compressed.
6.2.3 Forward Message Repair
In the rare case in which the indexed, compressed binary forward message file is corrupted, the Fwd Msg Repair option can be used to repair the file. The option is initiated by using the following procedure:
1. Select the Admin. Ops. option under the Other Menu.
2. Highlight Fwd Msg Repair and press ENTER.
NOTE
The indexed, compressed binary message files are the nonnal message storage files used by the office workstation and should not be confused with the ASCII files that are established by the office workstation when the Archive option is utilized.
6.2.4 Return Message Repair
The Rtn Msg Repair option is the same as the Fwd Msg Repair option described above, except that it corrects problems with the return message files. The option is initiated by using the following procedure:
6441B, p. 6-3
1. Select the Admin. Ops. option under the Other Menu.
2. Highlight Rtn Msg Repair and press ENTER.
6.2.5 Task Schedule
The Task Schedule option allows the establishment of a schedule for automatically initiating dialogs with the MMC: The schedule may be used to automatically contact the MMC more frequently during the peak hours and less frequently during the slow hours. Refer to 3.3 Setting Up a Task Schedule (Section III) for more information.
6.3 BACKING UP SYSTEM FILES
It is good practice to back up files on a regular basis in case of a hard disk failure or other system problem that may destroy system files. It is recommended that system files be backed up once a week.
A reminder to back up files is displayed every Friday at 2:00 p.m.
INFO: Please exit office workstation and run SA VEM
The SA VEM program automatically backs up the Vehicles Directory, the Forward and Return Macros, and the Landmarks, and it optionally backs up the Forward and Return Message Directqries.
To run the backup program, follow the procedure outlined below:
1. Quit the office workstation.
2. At the C:\S1LLNK> prompt type SA VEM and press ENTER.
A prompt is displayed that asks whether or not the Forward and Return Message Directories are to be backed up. Type Y to back up; otherwise type N. A prompt to insert a diskette into the A: drive will then appear.
3. Insert a diskette and press ENTER.
The files are backed up to the diskette in the A: drive and the C:\S1LLNK> prompt returns. Any data that was present on the diskette is deleted.
6441B, p. 6-4
APPENDIX A TROUBLESHOOTING
If problems are encountered with office workstation, the workstation operator should:
1. Check all system components to ensure that all power lights are on.
2. Check that the power switch is turned on and that the power connections are secure.
3. Check all interconnect cables between the system components. All connectors should be securely seated and locked in place (where applicable). All cables should be intact, with no visible cuts or crimped areas.
4. Check that cable between the modem and the telephone wall jack is undamaged and that the connectors are securely seated.
Toll-Free Assistance Number
If a problem arises that requires additional assistance, call the Satel-Link 24-hour, toll-free help number 1-800-652-7276. This number is also displayed on the Help Screen that appears as a result of pressing the F9 key while the Create Msg option under the Forward Menu is highlighted.
6441B, p. A-1
APPENDIX B DEMONSTRATING OFFICE WORKSTATION
The major functions of the office workstation system can be demonstrated by selecting Demo Start from the Other Menu. The demonstration screen is then displayed and a dialog with the Miv!C is initiated (see Figure B-1). The demonstration screen contains three windows: the Forward Status, Vehicle, and Last Return Message.
The Vehicles Window displays the 19 most recent locations of the most recently selected vehicle. The Forward Status Window displays the status of the last 10 messages queued to the MMC. The Last Return Message Window displays data about the last return message received by the office workstation PC.
While Demo is selected, the data displayed on the demonstration screen changes as the vehicle moves or message traffic occurs. The demonstration can be stopped at any time by selecting Demo Stop from the Other Menu or by perfonning any other operation on the office workstation.
,.... Forward Status -: Vehicle: 53
# Stat lime Message Text 08:59 6.7 SE WEST VIEW -- 09:12 9.1 SE WEST VIEW 1 CN 11 :38 NEXT PM SCHEDULED 09:14 8.5 NW PITISBURGH 2 A 11 :40 SLOW SPEED TO 09:25 8.0 NW PITISBURGH 3 s 12:14 TRACK WARRANT 09:38 6.9 NW PITISBURGH
10:14 7.0 N PITISBURGH 10:55 7.0 N PITISBURGH
-=Last Return Message -------....
Received: 14:14:51 From Unit: 153
8/09/89 14:12:16 PDT AUTO MSG
Figure B-1. Demonstration Screen
6441B, p. B-1
APPENDIX C CREATING VEHICLE CLASSIFICATIONS
MCTs may be grouped into classifications (e.g. Normal, Reefer, Tanlc, and DOD). Each classification can then be assigned a color so that when position histories are displayed on the map, the MCTs may be easily distinguished from one another by the color code.
Before assigning the MCTs to a classification, the classification must first be created in the MCTCLASS.DAT file. This is done by editing the file using the MicroStar editor (MS). If no classification is created for an MCI', the office worlcstation defaults to the Normal class (light magenta color).
To create classifications, follow the procedure outlined below.
I. At the C:\S1LLNK prompt, type the following command to edit the MCTCLASS.DA T file with MicroStar:
MS MCTCLASS.DAT
If the file has not already been edited, the following text should be displayed:
Sample MCTCLASS.DA T file Class_Name Class_Color
Name is a one word alphanumeric label, Color is one of BLACK, BLUE, GREEN, CYAN, RED, MAGENTA, BROWN, WHITE, GRAY, LIGHTBLUE, LIGHTGREEN, LIGHTCY AN, LIGHTRED, LIGHTMAGENTA, LIGHTYELLOW, BRIGHTWHITE.
NORMAL LIGHTMAGENT A ;Default to these values
NOTE
In the above example, the semicolons denote a comment line. All lines that do not begin with a semicolon are instructions to the office worlcstation. The last line in the example above instructs the office worlcstation to default to a Normal classification with the color light magenta. If this file is not edited, then all MCI' entries are displayed in light magenta on the map.
2. Press the down arrow key to get to the bottom of the file.
3. Using the example as a guide, add the name of a classification and specify the color for that classification. Press ENTER to move to the next line. ·
6441B, C-1
The name of the class may only be one word and up to 10 characters in length. The name of the class is followed by a space or a tab and then the color. The color may be one of the 16 colors listed in the example. For example, the following classifications might be created:
Sample MCTCLASS.DA T file Class_Name Class_Color
Name is a one word alphanumeric label, Color is one of BLACK, BLUE, GREEN, CYAN, RED, MAGENTA, BROWN, WHITE, GRAY, LIGHTBLUE, LIGHTGREEN, LIGHTCYAN, LIGHTRED, LIGHTMAGENT A, LIGHTYELLOW, BRIGHTWHITE.
NORMAL LIGHTMAGENT A ;Default to these values REEFER LIGHTBLUE NUCLEAR LIGHTRED DOD LIGHTGREEN
4. When finished editing the file, press FlO to access the MS menu.
5. With the File option highlighted, press ENTER.
6. Press S to save the file.
7. Press Fl O to access the menu again.
8. Press Q to quit the MS editor.
The office workstation may now be started. MCI's may be assigned to a class by editing the associated entry in the Vehicles Database.
6441B, C-2
APPENDIX D SPECIAL CHARACTERS
The following characters are not pennitted in the message field of forward and return messages. The characters have special uses as listed:
\
/\
Backslash Used within a text field to indicate a new line. Not printed on the display screen.
Left Curly Brace Used as the "start of packet" character. May not appear in text field of a message.
Right Curly Brace Used as part of the "end of packet" sequence. May not appear in the text field of a message.
Left Brace Currently unassigned. May not appear in the text field of a message.
Right Brace Currently unassigned. May not appear in the text field of a message.
Caret Delimits a password field in a message or in a macro field.
Underscore Macro argument specifier, used by both macro definitions and macro references to signal the presence of a variable field in a macro.
Depending on the particular MCT hardware, some of the characters may not be available on the MCT keyboard. However, the MCT will be able to display all characters listed.
64418, p. D-1
APPENDIX E GLOSSARY
This glossary contains an alphabetized list of definitions for tenns used throughout this manual.
Associated Macro Number When the MCT operator presses the REPLY key to create a message in reply to a received macro message which has an Associated Macro Number, the macro stored in the MCT corresponding to the Associated Macro Number is automatically displayed on the screen for the MCT operator to fill in.
Boot The procedure by which software is started. To boot the office workstation, type STLLNK at the system prompt.
Canned Message A message made up of prewritten text and fields that are filled in by the office workstation operator or MCT operator. Canned messages, also called "macro" messages, are analogous to filling out a form.
Communication Status Line A line displayed at the bottom of the Main Menu which provides the status of the communication occurring between the office workstation and the MMC.
Cursor The symbol on the screen that indicates where the next character in a message will be placed.
Display Unit The part of the MCT that contains the keyboard and screen.
Fields The separate items in macro message screens that must be filled in before sending the message. The number of blanks in the field indicates the number of characters which can be typed in the field.
Fonvard Message A message sent from the office workstation to an MCT operator. This is the same as a message received· by the MCT operator from the office workstation.
Free-Form Message A message made up of text that is freely typed. Free-fonn messages correspond to typing on a blank piece of paper. Free-fonn messages do not use a macro template (the macro number is zero).
Groups A feature that allows the vehicles to be categorized according to type of vehicle or cargo and send messages to a group of vehicles at one time. Each vehicle is automatically assigned to "All Vehicles" and may be assigned to two additional groups.
6441B, p. E-1
Landmarks The office workstation has a library of landmarks of major cities and towns. Additional landmarks may also be created. A vehicle's position may be obtained relative to a landmark.
Macro A message made up of prewritten text and fields that are filled in. Macro messages are also referred to as "canned" messages. They are analogous to filling out a form.
MCT Mobile Communications Terminal. This is all of the equipment installed on a vehicle to support the Satel-Link. system. It consists of the outdoor unit (antenna), the- communication unit (the black box). and the display unit (keyboard and screen).
MMC Message Management Computer. The MMC is responsible for processing all of the message flow.
MMF Message Management Facility. The MMF houses the MMC. It is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Message Status Line A line displayed at the bottom of the Main Screen which provides the status of forward and return messages. This line indicates the number of forward messages waiting to be sent and new return messages that have been received.
Message Window A window displayed on the Main Screen and in several other displays which provides the space for viewing forward and return messages. This window has the same width as the MCT display unit screen.
Poll Interval The amount of time between position polls. This value may be set by the office workstation operator.
Position Poll A request to obtain the most recent "good" position information from a vehicle. It may be initiated by the office workstation operator at any time or initiated automatically by the MMC based on the Poll Interval.
Reply Message A message sent by the MCT operator to the office worlcstation in reply to a specific message sent by the office worlcstation operator.
Return Message A message sent from the MCT operator to the office workstation.
Return Receipt A return receipt may be requested when creating a forward message. If a return receipt is requested, an acknowledgement is sent to the office worlcstation when the MCT operator displays the message on the display unit.
6441B, p. E-2
Satel-Link A two-way satellite communication system. It consists of a Mobile Communication Tenninal (MCT), which is installed in the vehicle; the office worlcstation, located in the railroad control facility; and the Message Management Facility (MMF), located in San Diego, CA.
Signing On The process by which the office workstation contacts the MMC. The office workstation must be signed on with the MMC in order to transfer messages to and from the MMC.
Status Display Window A window displayed under special circumstances. Generally, three types of infonnation may be displayed in this window: special infonnation. fatal errors, and warnings.
6441B, p. E-3
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