Downloading Data from a Unit after Disconnect from SLICEWare

Purpose:

This article discusses how to download data from a DTS data acquisition system after the unit has been disconnected from SLICEWare. 

This process can be used both in the case where the unit has been intentionally disconnected from SLICEWare either before or after initial download or in the event of unintentional disconnect of the unit from SLICEWare during data download.

Background Information:

DTS data acquisition systems utilize non-volatile flash memory for storage of data gathered during use.  This memory is not subject to power fluctuations or loss and all data stored into the flash is available for download until the unit is armed using SLICEWare. 

Download Process:

The following steps can be taken to download data from a unit using SLICEWare:

1. Connect the DAS to SLICEWare per usual
   
   
2. Navigate to the Acquire tab.  You should see the Test Id for the test stored in the unit memory.
   
   
3. Select the download option desired (Download all, Download ROI)
   

NOTE: Arming the DAS at this stage will erase the flash memory, so do not arm a system until you are sure all data has been downloaded.

Re-Downloading Following Disconnect During Download Activities:

In the event that the data acquisition system becomes disconnected from SLICEWare/the host computer during downloading activities, it is often necessary to power cycle the unit in order reestablish communications.  Once reconnected, the user should attempt to open the test data files located in the test folder using the Review tab.  If the test files are either not present or will not open, the download did not complete and the data will need to be re-downloaded.

To re-download the data, follow the steps above. 

In the event that test files were created during the last download but are unable to be opened, a pop-up will appear asking for permission to 'Overwrite pre-existing test files'.

Since the existing data files are corrupted and are not accessible, select Yes to re-download the data.  Doing this will replace the existing inaccessible files with valid data files at the end of the download process.

Conclusion:

DTS data acquisition systems utilize non-volatile flash memory for data storage during collection.  Data stored in the flash memory is not subject to power fluctuations or connect/disconnect activities to the SLICWare/host computer.  All data stored in flash memory is maintained and accessible until the unit undergoes arming activities in SLICEWare. 

Arming the unit in SLICEWare will cause the erasure of all data stored in the DAS flash memory.  Therefore the user should ensure that test data is successfully downloaded from the unit prior to arming for another test.