Frequently Asked Questions

Segment Checker Software Version 1.2x.x

What platforms does this software run on?

Please see the SegmentChecker release notes.

I downloaded the Segment Checker software. How do I install it on my computer?

Please read our SegmentChecker installation instructions.

How do I load more instruments in the Device Tree?

Segment Checker was originally designed by Pepperl+Fuchs to help you develop your fieldbus infrastructure. Other devices can be added quite easily. You can even input your own devices with the included Device Editor. Additional device libraries, which have been checked by the respective manufacturers, can be downloaded and easily installed from the instrument libraries section. Import and Export functions are available from the Segment Checker menus.

How can I put my own instruments into the Device Tree?

Your own instruments can quickly be created and added to the Device Tree with the Device Editor. This editor feature is included with Segment Checker.

What is the reason for "Not Specified", "Non-hazardous", ... in the select segment type?

This is your first choice, allowing you to specify the conditions in which you are installing your fieldbus segment. Segment Checker then uses this information to populate the Device Tree with the appropriate equipment. The option "Not specified" can be used if you want full control over device selections. With this option, Segment Checker shows all available fieldbus equipment.

What is short-circuit checking?

During normal operation one short circuit at a spur should be permissible and included in the planning. The short circuit test is only possible with short-circuit limited "wiring interfaces" e.g. the FieldConnex Segment Protector or Field Barrier. This means it tests voltage levels and load current with one short circuit on an output to determine where the segment gets the worst effect from a short circuit.

Where can I get a detailed report on my project?

You will find an analysis of your project by clicking on the Project Report tab located at the bottom of the drawing.

What does a module highlighted in red mean?

This indicates that the Segment Checker software has detected a condition in your design that violates design criteria specified in the fieldbus standard IEC 61158-2. The error is related to the equipment highlighted in red. View the Error log tab located in the bottom left hand corner, or right click on the instrument and select "view error log" from the menu options.

How do I get an instrument from the Device Tree into my project layout?

In order to build a network, simple drag and drop or double-click methods can be used to build the structure. Simply drag the icon to the Segment Editor window and drop it. To add the next element, just drag it close to the intended interconnecting element. The software will then make the connection automatically with the same type of trunk cable that was defined earlier in the basic parameter setup. Please be aware that you will need to connect elements when using the double-click method.

How do I specify the part to be considered the trunk?

It is important to identify the trunk through placement of the terminators. The trunk is specified as the electric connection between the two terminators. Terminators are typically located on the power supply and the last wiring interface. Most Pepperl+Fuchs wiring interfaces and power supplies have an optional terminator that can be turned on in the detail view of the device. External terminators can also be used.

What is the difference in the Icon and Bitmap within the Device Editor?

The Icon is the image associated with the created instrument that will appear under your Device Tree. The Bitmap is the image displayed in a project once it is connected to an interface product.

What are the import and export functions within the Device Editor?

The import function allows you to incorporate instrument libraries of various field device instruments. The export function allows you to save created field devices and share them with other people, or transfer to another computer. Check the instrument libraries for currently available manufacturers.

What is Microsoft .NET Framework?

Microsoft .NET is a technology to create and distribute software. The base of .NET is the .NET Framework, which is a complex but easy to handle infrastructure that realizes communication from Windows and internet applications over networks and the internet. The Microsoft .NET technology creates the runtime environment for Windows based applications and must be installed separately before Segment Checker versions newer than 1.16+ can be installed on your system. The setup wizards check if Microsoft .NET was previously installed and if not, instruct you to proceed to the Microsoft web site to download it. Please read our installation instructions for further information.