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ECM-2 Instruction Manual, Rev D2-9411300990

Q: What role do RTD temperature monitoring blocks play in maintaining bridge component integrity within a power control system?

RTD temperature monitoring blocks point to heatsink temperatures within bridge components, ensuring that each bridge's thermal state is within operational thresholds. This monitoring helps prevent overheating, maintains component integrity, and enhances the overall reliability and safety of the power control system by alerting operators to potential thermal faults .

Q: What are the potential consequences of failing to correctly adjust damping in a power generation unit?

Failing to correctly adjust damping in a power generation unit can result in machine oscillations and instability when operating online, which can diminish power quality and harm system reliability . Damping adjustments are crucial to ensure that the unit is not underdamped; underdamping can lead to undesirable oscillations, putting the generator at risk of exceeding its voltage or current ratings, potentially resulting in equipment damage . Ensuring optimal damping settings prevents such oscillations and contributes to the stable parallel operation of the generator with the power system . Additionally, improper damping can interfere with voltage regulation and excitation control, leading to potential overexcitation or underexcitation, both of which can threaten synchronism with the power system .

Q: How does the event recorder configuration window simplify the process of setting up event recorder blocks compared to manually configuring each block individually?

The event recorder configuration window simplifies the setup process by centralizing all relevant controls, thus eliminating the need to navigate to each block in the diagram or application configuration windows. This centralization allows users to change data inputs, adjust the number of samples and pre-trigger samples, and configure the number of active channels more efficiently .

Q: What procedures should be followed to ensure a dual-channel system effectively tests power components and logic circuitry?

For a dual-channel system, the procedures involve testing each power bridge in maintenance mode for component function, then transferring control to the redundant channel and repeating the tests. Post power component test, logic circuitry tests should commence with the machine field connected to the regulation logic for combined tests. It is crucial to first control the main channel and then replicate the procedure for the redundant channel to ensure full system validation .

Q: What diagnostic alerts involve heat sink temperature within a power system's controller?

Diagnostic alerts related to heat sink temperature include alarms for low and high-temperature conditions across multiple phases (e.g., SCRAN_LTEMP for low, SCRAP_HTEMP for high heat sink temperatures). These alerts are crucial for detecting overheating or cooling failures, prompting corrective actions to prevent hardware damage and ensure operational reliability .

Q: How does the configuration of Modbus coil variables contribute to the effective monitoring of power systems?

The configuration of Modbus coil variables enhances the effective monitoring of power systems by mapping specific states and control functions to individual coil addresses, which allows for detailed monitoring and control of both local and remote human-machine interface (HMI) inputs, digital outputs, and various system status Indicators . By systematically assigning states to coil addresses (e.g., 001 to 064 for local HMI inputs and 097 to 160 for digital outputs), it ensures accurate real-time tracking and management of system components . This structured mapping provides clarity in operations and facilitates the integration of control inputs and outputs . Additionally, this configuration supports logical operations and provides an organized means to handle system functions like voltage matching, synchronization, and enable or disable control modes, enhancing the overall operational efficiency of power systems .

Q: What steps must be taken for a successful configuration of reactive droop compensation in a generator system?

The successful configuration requires enabling reactive compensation functions, verifying settings with the end-user, and ensuring a 4-6% reactive droop setting for the regulator. The compensator should maintain this setting to achieve satisfactory operation, especially when aligning the generator's operation with system reactance requirements in parallel modes .

Q: How is the machine reactive loading affected by manual adjuster operations during a transfer from auto to manual control mode?

During the manual adjuster operation in manual control mode, reactive loading decreases when the adjuster is lowered and increases when raised. This relationship helps fine-tune the machine's reactive power contribution to the grid, enabling precise control over power flow and efficiency during operational transfers between control modes .

Q: Why is it critical to monitor the phase angle between current and voltage when a generator is operating at unity power factor?

Monitoring the phase angle between current and voltage when a generator operates at unity power factor is critical because it ensures proper operation and stability of the power system. At unity power factor, the phase angle should be ideally 0 degrees, meaning that the current is in phase with the voltage. Any deviations can indicate issues in the system such as incorrect power factor settings or improper reactive power compensation . Additionally, maintaining the correct phase angle prevents inefficient operation, incorrect var output, and potential damage to equipment due to over or under excitation . Ensuring correct phase alignment also assists in verifying that reactive compensation functions are working correctly and that the system is synchronized with the power grid ."}

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ECM-2 Instruction Manual, Rev D2-9411300990

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Eng M Elseaidy

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INSTRUCTION MANUAL

FOR
ECM-2
Excitation Control Module

Publication: 9411300990
Revision: D2 Mar-19
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9411300990 Rev D i

Preface
This instruction manual provides information about the installation and operation of the ECM-2 Excitation
Control Module. To accomplish this, the following information is provided:
• General Information
• Indicators and Interfaces
• Functional Description
• Mounting
• Terminals and Connectors
• BESTCOMS™Pro Software
• Commissioning
• Modbus™ Protocol
• Maintenance
• Specifications

Warning!

To prevent personal injury or equipment damage, only qualified

personnel should install, operate, or service this system.

Conventions Used in this Manual

Important safety and procedural information is emphasized and presented in this manual through
Warning, Caution, and Note boxes. Each type is illustrated and defined as follows.

Warning!

Warning boxes call attention to conditions or actions that may cause

personal injury or death.

Caution
Caution boxes call attention to operating conditions that may lead to
equipment or property damage.

Note
Note boxes emphasize important information pertaining to installation
or operation.

ECM-2 Preface
ii 9411300990 Rev D

12570 State Route 143

Highland IL 62249-1074 USA
www.basler.com
info@basler.com
Tel: +1 618.654.2341
Fax: +1 618.654.2351

© 2017 by Basler Electric

Warning!

READ THIS MANUAL. Read this manual before installing, operating, or maintaining the ECM-2 Note
all warnings, cautions, and notes in this manual as well as on the product. Keep this manual with the
product for reference. Failure to follow warning and cautionary labels may result in personal injury or
property damage. Exercise caution at all times.

Basler Electric does not assume any responsibility to compliance or noncompliance with national code, local code,
or any other applicable code. This manual serves as reference material that must be well understood prior to
installation, operation, or maintenance.

For terms of service relating to this product and software, see the Commercial Terms of Products and Services
document available at www.basler.com/terms.
It is not the intention of this manual to cover all details and variations in equipment, nor does this manual provide
data for every possible contingency regarding installation or operation. The availability and design of all features
and options are subject to modification without notice. Over time, improvements and revisions may be made to this
publication. Before performing any of the following procedures, contact Basler Electric for the latest revision of this
manual.

This product contains, in part, open source software (software licensed in a way that ensures freedom to run, copy,
distribute, study, change, and improve the software) and you are granted a license to that software under the terms
of either the GNU General Public License or GNU Lesser General Public License. The licenses, at the time of sale
of the product, allow you to freely copy, modify, and redistribute that software and no other statement or
documentation from us, including our End User License Agreement, places any additional restrictions on what you
may do with that software.
For at least three (3) years from the date of distribution of this product, a machine-readable copy of the complete
corresponding source code for the version of the programs distributed to you will be sent upon request (contact
information is provided above). A fee of no more than our cost of physically performing the source code distribution
is charged.
The source code is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY REPRESENTATION or
WARRANTY or even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Refer to the source code distribution for additional restrictions regarding warranty and copyrights.
For a complete copy of GNU GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE Version 2, June 1991 or GNU LESSER GENERAL
PUBLIC LICENSE Version 2.1, February 1999 refer to www.gnu.org or contact Basler Electric. You, as a Basler
Electric Company customer, agree to abide by the terms and conditions of GNU GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 2, June 1991 or GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE Version 2.1, February 1999, and as such
hold Basler Electric Company harmless related to any open source software incorporated in this product. Basler
Electric Company disclaims any and all liability associated with the open source software and the user agrees to
defend and indemnify Basler Electric Company, its directors, officers, and employees from and against any and all
losses, claims, attorneys' fees, and expenses arising from the use, sharing, or redistribution of the software.
Review the software website for the latest version of the software documentation.
The English-language version of this manual serves as the only approved manual version.

Preface ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D iii

Revision History
The following information provides a historical summary of the changes made to the ECM-2 firmware and
software. The corresponding revisions made to this instruction manual (9411300990 Rev D) are also
summarized. Revisions are listed in chronological order.

Application Firmware
Version and Date Change
1.00.00, Oct-11 • Initial release
1.01.00, Mar-13 • Added MBIN, ROC, and REF_ADJ logic blocks
• Updated Modbus® mapping
1.01.01, May-13 • Corrected communication error between ECM-2 and BCMs
when communication with one of the BCMs is interrupted
1.01.02, Jul-13 • Corrected reset behavior of LOS2 output
• Corrected ECM-2 rebooting behavior when connected to
corrupted USB circuitry
• Adjusted code to reboot the ECM-2 if an FPGA error is
detected
1.01.03, Aug-13 • Corrected update behavior of UEL and MEL curve points
displayed in BESTCOMS™Pro
• Converted temperature outputs of the BCM_DATA blocks from
integer to float
1.02.00, Jan-14 • Added Modbus metering of MEL_P and UEL_P setpoints
• Corrected AUTO_SYNC block behavior during low generator or
bus frequencies
• Stopped initiating of data logger due to ECM-2 control power
cycling
• Corrected BRIDGES_ON output of BRG_CONFG block from
integer to float
• Corrected event recorder behavior
1.02.01, Aug-14 • Added Modbus metering of time and date
• Added integrator initialization in bypass to VFG block
• Corrected possibility of SCR misfire when firing angle oscillates
around a specific threshold
• Enabled the analog outputs to be tied together between ECM-2
controllers
• Corrected random frequency perturbation
• Corrected event recorder capture of pre-trigger samples
• Revised the generator simulation saturation coefficient to
comply with the industry standard
• Added transfer enable parameter to all limiter and protection
blocks
• Corrected failure of DIGIN_IN1_FB and DIGIN)IN2_FB block
outputs to update
• Corrected field voltage perturbation caused by missing B-phase
SCR firing pulses
1.02.02, Dec-14 • Corrected Modbus communication errors
• Added vector block SWITCH6F to address phase shift
measurement issues

ECM-2 Revision History

iv 9411300990 Rev D

BESTCOMS™Pro Software
Version and Date Change
1.01.03, Oct-11 • Initial release
2.00.01, Mar-13 • Bridge status screens added
• Data recording setup consolidated onto two screens
• Units information added to the control panel and metering
screens
• Help menu item added to metering screens for access to
information about blocks associated with the metered
parameters
• Help button added to “Assign Input” dialog displayed when a
block input assignment is changed
2.00.02, Aug-13 • Updated ECM-2 LOS2_SENS help file
• Expanded password access to reset certain alarm conditions
• Corrected various setting and menu display issues
• Corrected minor file handling issues
2.00.03, Feb-14 • Prevented downloading of data from a function block while the
block is running
• Expanded the Control Panel screen to display setting pre-
position status and both actual and per unit values
• Added upper and lower limit indicators to the Limiter screen
2.00.04, Aug-14 • Corrected scrolling behavior of metering and reports screens in
the View Explorer
• Various improvements in data and settings display
2.00.05, Dec-14 • Corrected display behavior of large values in the Assignment
Editor
• Adjusted data refresh behavior of Block setting screen
• Improved compatibility with configuration files created with
various firmware versions
• Corrected communication behavior with FCIM
2.01.00, Nov-16 • Added Windows® 10 compatibility
• Added BCM-2 support

Manual
Revision and Date Change
A, Dec-11 • Initial release
B, Apr-12 • Moved Logic Blocks into separate manual (9411300991)
• Converted manual to latest style
• Minor text edits in Introduction
• Replaced Figures 7, 8, and 9. (Added ™ to BESTCOMS™Pro)
C, Mar-13 • Revised the minimum PC recommendations (Table 3) for
BESTCOMS™Pro
• Updated Figure 7, Figure 20, and Table 14 to reflect new
BESTCOMS™Pro toolbar icon (close button)
• Added caution box addressing the suitability of Auto Tuning PID
values in the Commissioning chapter
• In BESTCOMS™Pro chapter, Data Monitoring descriptions and
illustrations were updated to reflect consolidation of settings
into two screen views.
• Replaced workspace material with discussion of BESTspace™

Revision History ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D v

Manual
Revision and Date Change
• Revised Updating BESTCOMS™Pro to cover manual and
automatic updating of the software
• Added bridge status screens and descriptions to
BESTCOMS™Pro chapter
• Updated “Monitor View” illustrations in BESTCOMS™Pro
D, Feb-17 • Added caution statement about nonvolatile memory
• Corrected relay output contact specifications
• Added procedure for manual installation of the USB driver
• Updated the CE compliance statement
• Added an NIIPT compliance statement

ECM-2 Revision History

vi 9411300990 Rev D

Revision History ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D vii

Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 1
Indicators and Interfaces............................................................................................................................ 3
Indicators ................................................................................................................................................... 4
+24V Power ........................................................................................................................................... 4
Operating State ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Firing Enabled ........................................................................................................................................ 4
System Alarm......................................................................................................................................... 4
Bridge Alarm .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Bridge Link Loss .................................................................................................................................... 4
Relay Out 1, 2, 3, and 4 ......................................................................................................................... 4
Contact Input 1, 2, 3, and 4 ................................................................................................................... 4
Ethernet ................................................................................................................................................. 4
Interfaces ................................................................................................................................................... 5
USB Connectors .................................................................................................................................... 5
RS-485 Connectors ............................................................................................................................... 5
Ethernet Connectors .............................................................................................................................. 5
RS-232 Connector ................................................................................................................................. 5
Functional Description ............................................................................................................................... 7
Sensor Inputs ............................................................................................................................................ 8
Excitation Control ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Regulation .............................................................................................................................................. 8
Limiters .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Regulation Mode Selection (PID Controller) ........................................................................................ 10
Excitation System Stabilizer (“Damping”) ............................................................................................ 10
Transient Gain Reduction (TGR) ......................................................................................................... 11
Adjuster Followers (Setpoint Tracking) ................................................................................................ 11
Balance Meter Driver ........................................................................................................................... 11
Power System Stabilizer (PSS) ........................................................................................................... 11
Protection Functions ............................................................................................................................ 11
Field Temperature Monitor .................................................................................................................. 11
Data Logger ......................................................................................................................................... 11
Event Recorder .................................................................................................................................... 12
Sequence of Events Logging ............................................................................................................... 12
Power Bridge Firing Interface .................................................................................................................. 12
Mounting .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Terminals and Connections ..................................................................................................................... 15
Screw-Terminal Connectors .................................................................................................................... 16
Analog Inputs ....................................................................................................................................... 16
Power Supply Inputs ............................................................................................................................ 16
Relay Outputs ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Contact Inputs ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Analog Outputs .................................................................................................................................... 18
IRIG Input ............................................................................................................................................. 18
Fiber Optic Connectors............................................................................................................................ 18
Analog I/O Module Connections .......................................................................................................... 18
Digital I/O Module Connections ........................................................................................................... 19
Isolation Transducer Connections ....................................................................................................... 19
Power Bridge Connections .................................................................................................................. 19
BESTCOMS™Pro Software ...................................................................................................................... 21
Installation ............................................................................................................................................... 21
System Requirements ......................................................................................................................... 21
Installation ............................................................................................................................................ 22
Running BESTCOMS™Pro ................................................................................................................. 22
ECM-2 Contents
viii 9411300990 Rev D

Activation Key ...................................................................................................................................... 23

Connecting to an Excitation Control Module (ECM-2) ............................................................................ 24
Ethernet ............................................................................................................................................... 24
COM Port ............................................................................................................................................. 26
USB ...................................................................................................................................................... 26
Manual USB Driver Installation ............................................................................................................ 27
Connecting to a BCM .............................................................................................................................. 27
Overview of Functions ............................................................................................................................. 28
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 28
Set State Icon ...................................................................................................................................... 29
Configuration Window ............................................................................................................................. 29
Window Docking ...................................................................................................................................... 29
Programmable Logic ............................................................................................................................... 30
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 30
Easy Screens ....................................................................................................................................... 31
Controller States .................................................................................................................................. 31
Programming a Controller .................................................................................................................... 32
Data Monitoring ....................................................................................................................................... 34
Data Logger ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Event Recorders .................................................................................................................................. 35
View Explorer .......................................................................................................................................... 43
View Explorer Windows ........................................................................................................................... 43
Indicators ............................................................................................................................................. 44
Diagram View....................................................................................................................................... 45
Execution View .................................................................................................................................... 53
Application Configuration View ............................................................................................................ 54
Mainline Execution View (BCM only) ................................................................................................... 57
Memory View ....................................................................................................................................... 57
Monitor View ........................................................................................................................................ 58
Real-Time Monitoring........................................................................................................................... 58
Metering ............................................................................................................................................... 62
Commissioning .................................................................................................................................... 70
Reports ................................................................................................................................................ 79
Settings Explorer ..................................................................................................................................... 82
Settings Explorer Windows ..................................................................................................................... 83
Controller Settings ............................................................................................................................... 83
Device Security Settings ...................................................................................................................... 85
Monitor View Setup .............................................................................................................................. 86
Data Recording Setup ......................................................................................................................... 86
Block Settings ...................................................................................................................................... 87
PSS ...................................................................................................................................................... 88
Alarms Configuration ........................................................................................................................... 91
Menu and Toolbar Commands ................................................................................................................ 92
Security Levels ........................................................................................................................................ 95
Setting Security Level Passwords ....................................................................................................... 95
Changing Security Levels .................................................................................................................... 95
Logic Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 96
Logic Block ........................................................................................................................................... 96
Logic Configuration .............................................................................................................................. 96
Data Loggers and Event Recorders ........................................................................................................ 97
Data Logger ......................................................................................................................................... 97
Event Recorder .................................................................................................................................... 97
Alarms...................................................................................................................................................... 98
Alarm Notifications ............................................................................................................................... 98
Viewing Alarms .................................................................................................................................... 99
Alarms Configuration Window ............................................................................................................. 99
Event and Alarm History Recorder (Sequence of Events) .................................................................. 99
BESTspace™ ........................................................................................................................................... 99

Contents ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D ix

BESTCOMS™Pro Updates ...................................................................................................................... 99

Firmware Upgrades ............................................................................................................................... 100
Plug-Ins for BESTCOMS™Pro .............................................................................................................. 101
Commissioning ....................................................................................................................................... 103
Safety..................................................................................................................................................... 103
Test Equipment ..................................................................................................................................... 103
Optional Equipment ........................................................................................................................... 104
Procedures Outline ................................................................................................................................ 104
Machine Idle ....................................................................................................................................... 104
Machine Running at Rated Speed, Generator Breaker Open ........................................................... 104
Machine Running at Rated Speed, Generator Breaker Closed ........................................................ 104
Commissioning Procedures .................................................................................................................. 105
Preparation ........................................................................................................................................ 105
External Wiring................................................................................................................................... 105
Auxiliary Power Circuits ..................................................................................................................... 105
Power Source Phasing ...................................................................................................................... 105
Firmware Verification ......................................................................................................................... 106
Transducer Scale and Offset ............................................................................................................. 106
Relays, Breakers, and Control Switches ........................................................................................... 109
Firing Control and Power Bridges—Generator Not Spinning ............................................................ 110
Adjusters, Followers, Regulators, & Controllers—Generator Not Spinning ...................................... 112
Limiters and Protective Functions ...................................................................................................... 114
Loss of Sensing and Other Limiter and Protection Settings .............................................................. 116
Monitoring Functions.......................................................................................................................... 116
Reconnection to PPT or PMG ........................................................................................................... 117
Offline Excitation Control ................................................................................................................... 118
Offline Stability and Damping ............................................................................................................ 120
Machine PT and CT Signal Polarity and Phase Angle ...................................................................... 121
Var/Power Factor Control .................................................................................................................. 121
Power System Stabilizer .................................................................................................................... 122
Limiters .............................................................................................................................................. 122
Final Check of System Operation ...................................................................................................... 122
Module Setup Summary ........................................................................................................................ 123
Auto Tuning ........................................................................................................................................... 123
Auto Tune Screen Functions ............................................................................................................. 126
AUTOTUNE Logic Inputs/Outputs ..................................................................................................... 126
Modbus™ Communication...................................................................................................................... 129
Controller #1 Modbus® Coil Map............................................................................................................ 129
Controller #1 Modbus™ Holding Registers ........................................................................................... 138
Controller #2 Modbus™ Coil Map ......................................................................................................... 147
Controller #2 Modbus™ Holding Registers ........................................................................................... 182
Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................ 191
Backup Battery ...................................................................................................................................... 191
Specifications .......................................................................................................................................... 193
Operating Power (2 Inputs) ................................................................................................................... 193
Analog Inputs (24) ................................................................................................................................. 193
Analog Outputs (2) ................................................................................................................................ 193
Analog Voltage Output ....................................................................................................................... 193
Analog Current Output ....................................................................................................................... 193
Input Contacts (4) .................................................................................................................................. 193
Output Contacts (4) ............................................................................................................................... 193
Carry Ratings (Resistive) ................................................................................................................... 193
Make and Break Ratings (Resistive) ................................................................................................. 193
Regulation ............................................................................................................................................. 193
Accuracy and Stability ....................................................................................................................... 193
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)................................................................................................. 194

ECM-2 Contents
x 9411300990 Rev D

AVR with Reactive Current Compensation ........................................................................................ 194

Manual Regulation ............................................................................................................................. 194
Var Control Regulation ...................................................................................................................... 194
PF Regulation .................................................................................................................................... 194
Setpoint Traverse Rate.......................................................................................................................... 194
Limiters .................................................................................................................................................. 194
Minimum Excitation ............................................................................................................................ 194
Overexcitation .................................................................................................................................... 195
Volts per Hertz ................................................................................................................................... 195
Overvoltage ........................................................................................................................................ 195
Undervoltage...................................................................................................................................... 195
Minimum Field Excitation ................................................................................................................... 195
Instantaneous Overcurrent ................................................................................................................ 195
Var ..................................................................................................................................................... 195
Generator Line Current ...................................................................................................................... 195
Protection Functions .............................................................................................................................. 196
Minimum Excitation ............................................................................................................................ 196
Overexcitation .................................................................................................................................... 196
Volts per Hertz ................................................................................................................................... 196
Overvoltage ........................................................................................................................................ 196
Undervoltage...................................................................................................................................... 196
Minimum Field Excitation ................................................................................................................... 196
Instantaneous Overcurrent ................................................................................................................ 196
Var ..................................................................................................................................................... 196
Generator Line Current ...................................................................................................................... 196
Alarm Indication ..................................................................................................................................... 196
Generator Field Temperature Monitor ............................................................................................... 196
Exciter Field Temperature Monitor .................................................................................................... 197
Data Logger ........................................................................................................................................... 197
Event Recorder ...................................................................................................................................... 197
Sequence of Events Recording ............................................................................................................. 197
Metering Accuracy ................................................................................................................................. 197
Communication Interface....................................................................................................................... 197
USB Ports (2) ..................................................................................................................................... 197
Ethernet Ports (2)............................................................................................................................... 198
RS-485 Ports (3) ................................................................................................................................ 198
RS-232 Port (1) .................................................................................................................................. 198
Backup Battery for Real-Time Clock ..................................................................................................... 198
Environment .......................................................................................................................................... 198
Operating and Storage Temperature ................................................................................................. 198
Humidity ............................................................................................................................................. 198
Altitude ............................................................................................................................................... 199
Agency Certifications ............................................................................................................................. 199
CE Compliance .................................................................................................................................. 199
NIIPT .................................................................................................................................................. 199
Patents .................................................................................................................................................. 199
Physical ................................................................................................................................................. 199

Contents ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D 1

Introduction
The ECM-2 Excitation Control Module provides the core functions of regulation, input sensing, and
thyristor firing control in a DECS-2100 Digital Excitation Control System. Functions previously provided by
three separate circuit boards in ECS2100 systems are now provided by one compact module. The ECM-2
replaces the Sensor Input Module (SIM), Exciter Control Module (ECM), and Firing Control Interface
Module (FCIM) previously used in ECS2100 systems. ECM-2 advantages include:
• Fully-enclosed package provides protection of key system circuitry
• Previously-required space for three, separate circuit boards is reduced to one compact module
• The proven reliability of the ECS2100 system design with added functionality:
o Improved thyristor firing accuracy
o Increased number of analog inputs from 12 to 24
o Standard ECM-2 hardware configuration supports up to four power bridges via fiber optic
communications. The expanded fiber optic version can accommodate up to 16 power bridges
o Expanded event recording and data logging capability
o Additional USB port accepts removable storage media for downloading events, data logs,
and alarm logs without the use of a computer
o Cross-current compensation between excitation systems through a built-in communication via
RJ-45 port over Ethernet
o IRIG-B and NTP time synchronization provides synchronized data recording.
o Additional RJ-45, 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet port for a dedicated control network
protocol

ECM-2 0BIntroduction
2 9411300990 Rev D

0BIntroduction ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D 3

Indicators and Interfaces

Excitation
Control Relay +24V System
Out 1 Power Alarm
Module
Relay Operating Bridge
Out 2 State Alarm ECM-2
Relay Firing Bridge
Out 3 Enabled Link Loss

Relay
Out 4

Contact
Input 1

Contact
Input 2

Contact
Input 3

Contact
Input 4

Ethernet
1 2
Data RS-232
USB 1

Link
P0066-02

RS-485 Ethernet IRIG

1 2 3 1 2 USB 2 In Gnd

Figure 1. ECM-2 Indicators and Interfaces

ECM-2 0BIndicators and Interfaces

4 9411300990 Rev D

Indicators
LED indicators, located on the front panel, provide the status of ECM-2 functions.

+24V Power
This green indicator lights to indicate the presence of ECM-2 operating power at either of the ECM-2
power supply inputs (PS1 or PS2).

Operating State
This green indicator annunciates the three operating states of ECM-2 operating code.
When the function block logic within the user’s application program is not being executed by the ECM-2
firmware, this indicator is unlit.
A flashing indicator annunciates that execution of the logic within the user’s application program is
occurring but the DECS-2100 system is offline (41A, breaker open).
Execution of application logic in an online (41A, breaker closed) DECS-2100 system is annunciated by a
steadily-lit indicator.

Firing Enabled
This green indicator lights when the ECM-2 module is supplying power bridge SCR firing commands to
the DECS-2100 system’s Bridge Control Module (BCM).

System Alarm
This red indicator lights when a system alarm exists within the ECM-2 module.

Bridge Alarm
This red indicator lights when a power bridge problem or failure is detected by the Bridge Control Module
(BCM) and communicated to the ECM-2 module.

Bridge Link Loss

This red indicator lights to indicate a loss of the fiber-optic signals between the ECM-2 module and the
Bridge Control Module (BCM).

Relay Out 1, 2, 3, and 4

Four amber indicators annunciate the energized/de-energized status of the four programmable relay
outputs. A lit indicator annunciates that the corresponding relay is energized.

Contact Input 1, 2, 3, and 4

Four amber indicators annunciate the open/closed status of the four externally-wetted programmable
contact inputs.

Ethernet
Two sets of indicators show the status of the two Ethernet communication ports. The green Link
indicators light to indicate that the corresponding Ethernet port connection is active/enabled. The amber
Data indicators light when the ECM-2 module is transmitting or receiving data over an Ethernet network.

0BIndicators and Interfaces ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D 5

Interfaces
Interfaces provide communication between the ECM-2 and other system devices.

USB Connectors
Two USB connectors are located on the front panel. An A-type, USB connector, designated USB 2,
connects with a USB flash drive for the downloading of DECS-2100 event records, data log, and alarm
log. A B-type USB connector, designated USB 1, mates with a standard USB cable and is used for
communication between the DECS-2100 system and a PC operating BESTCOMS™Pro.

RS-485 Connectors
Three eight-pin, RJ-45 jacks, located on the lower side of the ECM-2 module, enable communication with
distributed control, SCADA systems, or other operator interface devices via Modbus™ RTU. The RS-485
connectors are identified with the numbers 1, 2, and 3.

Ethernet Connectors
Two eight-pin, RJ-45 jacks, located on the lower side of the ECM-2 module, are intended for local area
network (LAN) communication (10BASE-T/100BASE-TX). Typically, one jack is used for communication
with the DECS-2100 display panel. In a typical DECS-2100 system, the user will not plug directly into
these Ethernet ports. Instead, these Ethernet ports will be connected to an Ethernet switch which will
accept any of the Ethernet connection required by the user. The Ethernet connectors are identified with
the numbers 1 and 2 and have separate MAC addresses.

RS-232 Connector
A nine-pin, D-sub connector, located on the front panel, enables communication with the ECM-2 and
Bridge Control Modules through a PC operating BESTCOMSPro software.

ECM-2 0BIndicators and Interfaces

6 9411300990 Rev D

0BIndicators and Interfaces ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D 7

Functional Description
ECM-2 performs functions previously performed in ECS2100 systems by three, separate modules:
Sensor Input Module (SIM), Exciter Control Module (ECM), and Firing Control Interface Module (FCIM).
The functionality of these modules has been retained with some enhancements. ECM-2 functions are
illustrated in the block diagram of Figure 2.
A
F+

3-Phase AC Synchronous B
Power Source Generator/Motor
(Shunt fed or
PMG)
F-

Bridge/Cabinet
Shunt
Isolation
Transducer
Card

Bridge
Bridge
Control
Bridge
Control
Module
Control
Module
0-15
Modules
0-15
0-15

RX TX PT Card CT Card
A
B
Isolation
C
Transducer
Rectifier Bridges 0-15
Card

Fiber Cables Fiber Cables Fiber Cables

VAB VBC Bridge 0..15 If Vf
PPT Gen Field
Analog Inputs
FPGA
Set and Send firing command Analog Input Scaling
Send/Receive fiber communications
Alpha, Theta, Omega
Power Input ECM-2 Sensing PLL
VCO count value
PLL generator voltage in pu
Firing
Vab & Vbc Reference AUTO_MXR AUTO_REG
Error
Scaling for field V Power Input Signal Reference
& I and power input PID S S OR Gate
Adjustment

Limiters, PSS, Etc. Ethernet 2

Power Inputs RS232
USB1
PS1 PS2
Contact Iputs 1 - 4 Relay Outputs 1 - 4 Analog Outputs 1 and 2 + - + - Ethernet 1 RS485 (x3)
P0066-16

+24V +24V
HMI PC
Supply Supply

Figure 2. ECM-2 Function Blocks

ECM-2 0BFunctional Description

8 9411300990 Rev D

Sensor Inputs
Twenty-four, high-speed analog inputs (channels) collect data (sensing values) from the generator PTs
and CTs and other analog signal sources through hard-wired inputs. Fiber-optic connections receive
digital signals supplied by the DECS-2100 system Digital I/O Modules. Analog and temperature signals
supplied by the DECS-2100 system Analog I/O Modules are also received through fiber-optic connections
on the isolation transducer card interface. Analog inputs are digitized and provided to the excitation
circuitry for interpretation.

Excitation Control
The excitation control portion of the ECM-2 module provides the primary control for the DECS-2100
system and consists of logic for excitation control, limiting, protection, and communication.

Regulation
Regulation modes are described in the following paragraphs.

Manual Regulation
This function provides closed-loop regulation of field current (or during system testing, field voltage).
Manual regulation mode is typically the default control mode used when the PT signal is lost.
When operating in manual regulation mode, the ECM-2 maintains the field current level to within ±0.5% of
the setpoint throughout the entire load range of the generator. The field current regulation setpoint is
adjustable over the range of 1 or 5% of no-load field current to 125% of rated load current.

Automatic Regulation
This function provides closed-loop regulation of the generator terminal voltage and is derived from the
regulator PTs. In the event of a regulator PT failure, it can be derived from the metering PTs.
When operating in automatic regulation mode, the steady-state generator terminal voltage is held to
within ±0.2% over the entire load range. The voltage adjustment range is 40 to 120% of the rated terminal
voltage. Regulation occurs for generator frequencies over the range of 20 to 180 hertz.
Several types of generator current compensation can be provided as auxiliary signals to the automatic
regulation function. Reactive droop and line drop compensation use a processed CT input to modify the
operating point value based upon the magnitude of the reactive portion of the line current. Cross-current
compensation uses an additional CT input from another generator or data exchanged via an Ethernet link
to provide for reactive current sharing of paralleled generators.

Var Regulation/Control
This function compares the calculated var level of the generator output to an internal reference (var
adjuster) value. The difference between the two values is multiplied by a gain and then used for var
control or var regulation.
For var control, if a condition exists where the var error is outside the acceptable window for the duration
of the preset time delay, the var controller acts to control the voltage regulator to keep the var level near
the prescribed value. If a condition exists where the var error is outside the acceptable window for less
than the duration of the preset time delay (such as, during transients), the system continues to function
like a voltage regulator.
Var regulation is sometimes utilized in industrial applications where the generator is providing local power
factor correction in addition to real power (watts). In this application the var error substitutes for the ac
voltage error. Proper adjustment of parameters is critical for stable operation in this application.
A var adjuster function provides the means for varying the generator var output by varying the internal
references applied to the digital var regulator error function.

0BFunctional Description ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D 9

Power Factor Regulation/Control

This function compares the calculated generator power factor value to an internal reference (PF adjuster).
The difference between the two values is multiplied by a gain and then used for power factor control or
power factor regulation.
Power factor control operates in a similar manner to var control.
Power factor regulation operates in a similar manner to var regulation. Power factor regulation, like var
regulation, is sometimes utilized in industrial applications where the generator is providing local power
factor correction in addition to real power (watts). In this application, the power factor error substitutes for
the ac voltage error. Proper adjustment of parameters is critical for stable operation in this application.
Note also that the power factor error is not nearly as sensitive to var output as the var error at unity power
factor. At unity power factor a 1% bandwidth in power factor (0.99 lag to 0.99 lead) corresponds to a var
bandwidth of 14% (±0.14 per unit of generator rating). The power factor to var relationship is also highly
nonlinear. For this reason, power factor regulation is not normally a recommended mode of operation.
A power factor adjuster function provides the means for varying the generator power factor output by
varying the internal references applied to the digital power factor regulator error function.

Limiters
Limiting functions are described in the following paragraphs. Dual setpoints/gain groups are available.

Minimum Excitation Limiter (MEL)

The MEL maintains machine excitation above a predetermined MVA characteristic and thus prevents the
machine from reaching underexcited conditions that could endanger synchronism with the power system.
The inputs to this limiter are taken from the CT and PT signals, and the resultant operating point is
compared to an approximated steady-state stability limit curve. The MEL function sends an output that is
proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point. The MEL output is
auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent excitation from decreasing below the desired level.
This function operates in the same manner as traditional analog systems in that the limiter curve is based
upon assuming it is a steady-state stability limit, and as such, is recalibrated based upon the square of
the system voltage.

Underexcitation Limiter (UEL)

The UEL is nearly identical to the MEL (minimum excitation limiter). However, it is capable of recalibration
of the limit curve based upon the stator temperature or the hydrogen cooling gas pressure. Thus, it is
used for limiting of underexcited conditions based upon the generator capability. The inputs to this limiter
are also taken from the CT and PT signals. The resultant operating point is compared to the limit curve.
The UEL function sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the
operating point. The UEL output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent excitation from
decreasing below the desired level.

Overexcitation Limiter (OEL)

This function limits the magnitude and duration of excessive current and voltage applied to the exciter or
machine field. The limiter returns excitation to a preset level after an adjustable time delay. The limiter
operates on an inverse time characteristic, permitting lower values of overexcitation for longer time
periods and cutting off higher values of overexcitation in shorter time intervals. The OEL function also has
cool-down modeling that provides a “memory” of the heating effects of excessive overcurrent. The OEL
function sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point.
The OEL output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent excitation from increasing above
the desired level.

Volts per Hertz Limiter

This limiter protects the generator from excessive volts per hertz operating conditions. This could result
from system frequency dropping below normal or from system conditions causing overvoltage at nominal
frequency. Excessive volts per hertz can cause overheating of the machine and unit transformer. This
limiter has an inverse time characteristic that can be reduced when offline to prevent excessive volts per
hertz during coast-down of a unit for circumstances where the excitation system remains energized. The
ECM-2 0BFunctional Description
10 9411300990 Rev D

Volts per Hertz Limiter function sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve
and the operating point. The Volts per Hertz Limiter output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to
prevent volts per hertz increasing above the desired level.

Overvoltage Limiter
The overvoltage limiter protects the generator from sustained, high levels of terminal voltage. High
terminal voltage can occur due to either full-load rejection (on a large hydro unit) or a failure within the
excitation system. The Overvoltage Limiter function sends an output that is proportional to the distance
from the limiter curve and the operating point. The Overvoltage Limiter output is auctioneered against the
ac error signal to prevent voltage from increasing above the desired level.

Undervoltage Limiter
The undervoltage limiter protects the generator from sustained, low levels of terminal voltage. Low
terminal voltage can occur due to a failure within the excitation system. The Undervoltage Limiter function
sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point. The
Undervoltage Limiter output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent voltage from
decreasing below the desired level.

Minimum Field Excitation Limiter (MFEL)

The MFEL maintains the generator field current or voltage at a user-adjustable level. The MFEL function
sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point. The
MFEL output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent field excitation from decreasing below
the desired level.

Instantaneous Overcurrent Limiter

This limiter prevents the excitation system from producing high output currents in excess of any useful
level, such as could occur if a turn-to-turn short appears in the field. As the name implies, there is no
intentional time delay in actuation of this limiting function. The Instantaneous Overcurrent Limiter function
sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point. The
Instantaneous Overcurrent Limiter output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent current
from increasing above the desired level.

Var Limiter
The var limiter protects the generator from sustained, high levels of vars. High var levels can occur due to
a failure within the excitation system. A user-defined setpoint limits the maximum var flow. The Var Limiter
function sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the limiter curve and the operating point.
The Var Limiter output is auctioneered against the ac error signal to prevent the var level from increasing
above the desired level.

Generator Line Current Limiter

The generator line current limiter lowers the field current during overexcitation and raises the field current
during underexcitation. The limiter operates after the field current exceeds the user-defined pickup level.
The Generator Line Current Limiter function sends an output that is proportional to the distance from the
limiter curve and the operating point. The Generator Line Current Limiter output is auctioneered against
the ac error signal to prevent generator line current from increasing above below the desired level.

Regulation Mode Selection (PID Controller)

This function provides the means to utilize proportional, integral, and derivative closed-loop control of the
generator terminal voltage. Dual gain settings are available. Separate gain settings are available when
operating in manual mode.

Excitation System Stabilizer (“Damping”)

Damping compensates for the inherent, long time delay associated with the response of the generator
and exciter fields of brushless or rotating exciter systems. The excitation control system is stabilized by

0BFunctional Description ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D 11

applying a negative feedback to the ac error and limiter functions. This feedback signal is derived from
either the generator or exciter field current (or voltage) rate of change and scaled by a gain factor.

Transient Gain Reduction (TGR)

TGR is usually applied only to static excitation control systems. It is normally used for improving system
stability by providing separately defined time constants for the various limiters and error detectors.

Adjuster Followers (Setpoint Tracking)

The adjuster follower functions provide for a “bumpless” transfer of the digital regulator from ac voltage
regulation to dc field current regulation and vice versa.
In field current regulation mode, the follower in the ac adjuster is enabled. It senses the ac error signal,
changes the setpoint of the ac error signal, and changes the setpoint of the ac adjuster to keep the error
within a preset bandwidth.
In the ac voltage regulation mode, the follower in the digital dc adjuster is enabled. It senses the dc error
signal and changes the setpoint of the digital dc adjuster to keep the error within a preset bandwidth.

Balance Meter Driver

This driver provides a signal for a balance meter. Use of a balance meter helps the operator ensure that a
transfer from manual to auto mode is bumpless.

Power System Stabilizer (PSS)

The optional PSS feature damps oscillations that may occur due to voltage regulators swinging against
the balance of the power system. The PSS function may be configured to incorporate the IEEE dual-input
model, which can accommodate both an instantaneous electrical power signal and either a frequency or
speed input signal.

Protection Functions
The excitation control portion of the ECM-2 module can be programmed to provide the following
protective functions:
• Over/Undervoltage
• Volts per Hertz
• Overexcitation
• Loss of Field Underexcitation
• Loss of Sensing
• Phase Unbalance
• Field Ground
The protection pickup setting in the ECM-2 must be coordinated with any additional, external backup
protective relays that may be utilized.

Field Temperature Monitor

The exciter and/or generator field temperature can be accurately calculated and displayed with this
function. Temperature is calculated based upon the known field resistance at a known temperature
(usually 25°C). The measured resistance is obtained by dividing the measured field voltage by the
measured field current. The temperature is then determined based upon the temperature coefficient of
the winding material (usually copper).

Data Logger
A time- and date-stamped group of 12 user-selectable parameters also serves as a continuous data
logger function. Up to 100,000 points (shared equally with up to 12 selected parameters can be recorded.
ECM-2 data logger functions are configured in BESTCOMS™Pro.

ECM-2 0BFunctional Description

12 9411300990 Rev D

Event Recorder
Four configurable event recorder blocks are capable of capturing up to eight input event records per
recorder block. There are 100,000 points of data dedicated to each recorder block. Data point collection
intervals can be as short as one millisecond. ECM-2 event recorder functions are configured in
BESTCOMSPro.

Sequence of Events Logging

A time- and date-stamped list of up to 16,000 internal and user-defined variables are logged. User-
defined variables are selected in BESTCOMSPro.

Power Bridge Firing Interface

This portion of the ECM-2 module provides SCR firing commands to the DECS-2100 system Bridge
Control Modules. In turn, each Bridge Control Module controls the level of dc output power supplied by
the corresponding power bridge. Power bridge output is determined by a control signal supplied from the
excitation control circuitry to the firing control logic. To generate the SCR firing signals, the firing control
circuitry creates timing signals that are time- and pattern-synchronized with the monitored, three-phase
PPT voltage. (The PPT voltage is monitored by way of an Isolation Transducer connected to the ECM-2
module’s PPT fiber-optic input.) The firing signals, interspersed with data signals, are transmitted to the
DECS-2100 system Bridge Control Modules via fiber-optic connections.
In its standard configuration, the ECM-2 module can control from one to four sets of Bridge Control
Modules and power bridges. In its optional configuration, up to 16 sets of Bridge Control Modules and
power bridges can be controlled.
In addition to power bridge control, this circuitry processes power bridge alarms received from the Bridge
Control Modules and provides the alarm data to the excitation control logic. Processed alarms include
SCR loss, high power bridge temperature, and low power bridge temperature.

0BFunctional Description ECM-2

9411300990 Rev D 13

Mounting
ECM-2 circuitry is housed in a metal enclosure with a footprint of 14 by 9 inches (36 by 23 centimeters).
Enclosure dimensions are illustrated in Figure 3.

Figure 3. ECM-2 Outline Dimensions

ECM-2 0BMounting
14 9411300990 Rev D

0BMounting ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D 15

Terminals and Connections

ECM-2 connections are made on the left, right, and lower sides of the module and use the following
connector types. ECM-2 terminal connections are shown in Figure 4. The following paragraphs describe
the physical aspects of the ECM-2 module.

Excitation
Control Relay +24V System

F48
RX
Out 1 Power Alarm
1
Ch1

Module

F47
TX
PS1

Relay Operating Bridge

Ch2

Out 2 State Alarm ECM-2

F46
RX
Ch3

Relay Firing Bridge

PS2

Out 3 Enabled Link Loss

F45
TX
Ch4

Relay
Out 4

F44
RX
Ch5

F43
NC COM NO

Contact

TX
Ch6

Input 1
Out1

Analog Inputs

F42
Contact

RX
Ch7

Input 2
NC COM NO

F41
TX
Out2

Ch8

Contact
Input 3

F40
Ch9

RX
NC COM NO

Contact
Out3

F39
TX
Input 4
Ch10
NC COM NO

Ch11 Ch12

F38
RX
Out4

F37
TX
24
In1

Ch13 Ch14 Ch15

F36
RX
F35
TX
In2

F34
RX
F33
TX
In3

Ch16 Ch17 Ch18

F32
RX
In4

F31
TX
Analog Inputs
Ch19 Ch20 Ch21

F30
RX
F29
TX

Ethernet
1 2
Out1

Data
F28
RX

RS-232
USB 1
Ch22

F27
TX
Out2

Link
Ch23 Ch24

F26
RX

RS-485 Ethernet IRIG

F25
TX

1 2 3 1 2 In Gnd
48

USB 2

P0064-76
Figure 4. ECM-2 Terminal Connections

ECM-2 0BTerminals and Connections

16 9411300990 Rev D

Screw-Terminal Connectors
Connections on the left side and bottom of the module use connectors with screw-down, compression
terminals. The connectors, and the headers that they plug into, have a dovetailed edge that ensures
proper connector orientation. Similar-sized connectors and headers are uniquely keyed to ensure that a
connector mates only with the correct header to prevent damage to the ECM-2. However, care must still
be taken to ensure that the proper connector is inserted into the appropriate header. Connector screw
terminals accept a maximum wire size of 12 AWG or 2.5 mm2. The maximum screw torque is 5 in-lb or
0.6 N•m. Screw terminal connectors are used for the analog inputs, power supply inputs, relay outputs,
contact inputs, analog outputs, and the IRIG input.

Analog Inputs
The ECM-2 module has 24 analog inputs (channels) available to receive generator PT and CT metering
signals as well as other analog signals. Each of the 24 high-speed inputs is differential and accepts a 40
Vac rms signal (+57 or –57 Vdc peak). Inputs are sampled simultaneously every 64 microseconds and
averaged every 512 microseconds for an 8-sample average. Analog inputs are identified by channel
numbers: Ch1 through Ch24. Analog input terminal assignments are listed in Table 1.
Table 1. ECM-2 Analog Input Terminal Assignments
Channel Ch1 Ch2 Ch3 Ch4 Ch5 Ch6 Ch7 Ch8 Ch9 Ch10 Ch11 Ch12
1 (–) 3 (–) 5 (–) 7 (–) 9 (–) 11 (–) 13 (–) 15 (–) 17 (–) 19 (–) 21 (–) 23 (–)
Terminals
2 (+) 4 (+) 6 (+) 8 (+) 10 (+) 12 (+) 14 (+) 16 (+) 18 (+) 20 (+) 22 (+) 24 (+)

Channel Ch13 Ch14 Ch15 Ch16 Ch17 Ch18 Ch19 Ch20 Ch21 Ch22 Ch23 Ch24
25 (–) 27 (–) 29 (–) 31 (–) 33 (–) 35 (–) 37 (–) 39 (–) 41 (–) 43 (–) 45 (–) 47 (–)
Terminals
26 (+) 28 (+) 30 (+) 32 (+) 34 (+) 36 (+) 38 (+) 40 (+) 42 (+) 44 (+) 46 (+) 48 (+)

Power Supply Inputs

Two power supply inputs accept 24 Vdc operating power from two separate sources for failsafe operation.
(One 24 Vdc power source applied to one of the power supply inputs is sufficient for ECM-2 operation.
Only one should be energized at a time.) Each power supply input has an operating range of 16.8 to 36
Vdc. Internal holdup circuitry maintains ECM-2 operation through power interruptions as long as 200
milliseconds. The power supply inputs are designated PS1 and PS2. PS1 terminal assignments are 49
(+), 50 (–), and 51 (chassis ground). PS2 terminal assignments are 52 (+), 53 (–), and 54 (chassis
ground).

Relay Outputs
Four SPDT relay outputs are available for annunciation of user-defined conditions. Relay outputs are
configured to annunciate the desired conditions in BESTCOMS™Pro. Relay output ratings are listed in the
Specifications chapter. The relay outputs are designated Out 1, Out 2, Out 3, and Out 4. Out 1 terminal
assignments are 55 (NC), 56 (COM), and 57 (NO). Out 2 terminal assignments are 58 (NC), 59 (COM),
and 60 (NO). Out 3 terminal assignments are 61 (NC), 62 (COM), and 63 (NC). Out 4 terminal
assignments are 64 (NC), 65 (COM), and 66 (NO).

Contact Inputs
Four sets of terminals accept wetted contact inputs from external switches or other system devices.
Contact inputs can be individually configured within BESTCOMSPro to trigger ECM-2 responses to the
inputs. Contact inputs are designated In1, In2, In3, and In4. In1 terminal assignments are 67 (+) and
68 (–), In2 terminal assignments are 69 (+) and 70 (–), In3 terminal assignments are 71 (+) and 72 (–),
and In4 terminal assignments are 73 (+) and 74 (–).
The interrogation voltage for each contact input is switch-selectable and set at the factory for 24 Vdc or
125 Vdc/120 Vac depending on the DECS-2100 system configuration. If the ECM-2 is supplied as a
stand-alone or replacement unit, the switches should be set according to your system. The switches are
accessed just above the In1, In2, In3, and In4 connectors on the left side of the unit. See Figure 5.
0BTerminals and Connections ECM-2
9411300990 Rev D 17

Caution
Ensure that the unit is de-energized before attempting to set the
contact input switches. A thin non-conductive rod should be used to
set the switches.

Figure 5. Contact Input Switch Locations (Left-Side View of ECM-2 with Cover On)

Alternately, removing the unit cover provides access to the contact input switches. The following
paragraphs describe how to remove the unit cover and adjust the contact input switches.

Caution
Ensure that the unit is de-energized. Observe all electrostatic
discharge (ESD) precautions when handing the ECM-2.

1. De-energize the ECM-2 and the system. Remove all connections to the ECM-2.
2. Remove the six cover screws (located on the left- and right-hand side of the ECM-2) and carefully
remove the cover.
3. Locate the contact input switches and set according to your system. See Figure 6.
4. Reattach the cover using the six screws that were removed in Step 2. Torque the cover screws to 5
in-lbs (0.56 N•m). Reconnect the ECM-2 to the system.

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Figure 6. Contact Input Switch Locations (Left-Side View of ECM-2 with Cover Off)

Analog Outputs
Two isolated outputs provide analog signals that are directly proportional to ECM-2 or DECS-2100
system values selected by the user. Each analog output is individually adjustable for a signal range of –10
to +10 Vdc or 4 to 20 mAdc. The analog outputs are designated Out1 and Out2. Out1 terminal
assignments are 75 (+) and 76 (–) and Out2 terminal assignments are 77 (+) and 78 (–).

IRIG Input
This input can be used to synchronize the internal ECM-2 clock with a time signal supplied by an IRIG
time source. Keeping the ECM-2 clock synchronized with other devices enables accurate time stamping
of data during power system disturbances. The IRIG input complies with IRIG Standard 200-04 which
supports time, day, month, and year information. Input specifications include an input voltage range of
±20 Vdc, a logic-low voltage of 0.5 Vdc (maximum), and a logic-high voltage of 3.5 Vdc (minimum). IRIG
input terminal assignments are In and Gnd.

Fiber Optic Connectors

Connections on the right side of the module consist of interlocking, fiber-optic transmitters, and receivers.
Fiber-optic connectors are used for interlace with the Analog and Digital I/O Modules, sensing inputs from
the DECS-2100 Isolation Transducers, and the system power bridge(s). The use of fiber-optic cable and
connectors provides superior isolation and noise immunity. For systems using from one to four power
bridges, the ECM-2 is equipped with a single row of fiber-optic connectors. Applications requiring from
five to 16 power bridges have an ECM-2 module with two rows of fiber-optic connectors.

Analog I/O Module Connections

These three fiber-optic connections link the ECM-2 with up to four Analog I/O Modules. Each module is
polled by the ECM-2 for the status of the module’s two analog inputs and one RTD input. BESTCOMSPro
software can be used to connect the Analog I/O Module input and output data to any control software
block input or output in the ECM-2. Analog I/O Module connections consist of F19 (CLK), F20 (TX), and
F21 (RX).

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Digital I/O Module Connections

These three fiber-optic connections link the ECM-2 with up to four Digital I/O Modules. Each module is
polled by the ECM-2 for the status of the module’s 12 digital inputs. BESTCOMSPro software can be
used to connect the Digital I/O Module input and output data to any control software block input or output
in the ECM-2. Digital I/O Module connections consist of F22 (CLK), F23 (TX), and F24 (RX).

Isolation Transducer Connections

Fiber-optic communications to/from the DECS-2100 Isolation Transducers include provisions for monitoring
the digitized generator field voltage and current, exciter field voltage and current, and PPT voltage. Four
additional spare inputs may be used (with additional Isolation Transducers) to monitor other
system/generator values. Generator field connections are made at connectors F1 and F2. Exciter field
connections are made at connectors F3 and F4. PPT voltage connections are made at connectors F9 (VAC)
and F10 (VAB). Spare input connections are made at F5 (In2) and F6 (In1) and F7 (In4) and F8 (In3).

Power Bridge Connections

In its standard configuration, the ECM-2 is equipped with connections for controlling and monitoring up to
four power bridges. For applications requiring the control of up to 16 power bridges, the ECM-2 is
equipped with a second row of fiber-optic connections. Power bridge thyristor firing control data is routed
through these connections to the DECS-2100 Bridge Control Module(s). Power bridge temperature and
thyristor conduction data is also received from the Bridge Control Module(s) through these connections.
Table 2 lists the power bridge connection assignments.
Table 2. ECM-2 Power Bridge Connection Assignments
Bridge Bridge0 Bridge1 Bridge2 Bridge3 Bridge4 Bridge5 Bridge6 Bridge7 Bridge8
F11 (TX) F13 (TX) F15 (TX) F17 (TX) F25 (TX) F27 (TX) F29 (TX) F31 (TX) F33 (TX)
Connections
F12 (RX) F14 (RX) F16 (RX) F18 (RX) F26 (RX) F28 (RX) F30 (RX) F32 (RX) F34 (RX)

Bridge Bridge9 Bridge10 Bridge11 Bridge12 Bridge13 Bridge14 Bridge15 — —

F35 (TX) F37 (TX) F39 (TX) F41 (TX) F43 (TX) F45 (TX) F47 (TX)
Connections — —
F36 (RX) F38 (RX) F40 (RX) F42 (RX) F44 (RX) F46 (RX) F48 (RX)

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BESTCOMS™Pro Software
BESTCOMS™Pro is a Windows®-based, PC application that provides a user-friendly, graphical user
interface (GUI) for use with Basler Electric communicating products. The name BESTCOMSPro is an
acronym that stands for Basler Electric Software Tool for Communications, Operations, Maintenance, and
Settings.
BESTCOMSPro provides the user with a point-and-click means to set and monitor Basler Electric
products. The capabilities of BESTCOMSPro make the configuration of one or several controllers fast and
efficient. It is a sophisticated tool for configuring, monitoring, maintaining, and debugging a programmable
controller. Typically BESTCOMSPro is used at installation to configure the controller and, thereafter, is
used to monitor operations and fine tune input values. BESTCOMSPro has been designed to merge the
high functionality of ccTool™ and the ease-of-use associated with BESTCOMSPlus®. A primary
advantage of this software is its capability to allow the user to create a configuration settings scheme,
save it to a file, and upload the settings to the controller at the user’s convenience. Multiple security levels
are provided to ensure that only authorized users can change the appropriate configuration information.
Customized workspaces can be saved and loaded to make switching between tasks easier and more
efficient. Figure 7 shows the key elements of the main working window.

Figure 7. Typical User Interface Components

Installation
System Requirements
BESTCOMSPro operates with systems using Windows® XP (32-bit), Windows Vista (32-bit), Windows 7
(32 and 64-bit). BESTCOMSPro is built on the Microsoft® .NET Framework. The setup utility that installs
BESTCOMSPro on your PC also installs the required version of .NET Framework (if not already
installed).
System recommendations for BESTCOMSPro are listed in Table 3.

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Table 3. System Recommendations for BESTCOMSPro

Component Recommendation
Processor 1 GHz
RAM 2 GB
Hard Drive Space 920 MB (~70 for BESTCOMSPro and 850 MB for .NET 4.0, 32 bit)

Installation
Step 1: Insert the BESTCOMSPro CD-ROM into the PC CD-ROM drive.
Step 2: When the BESTCOMSPro Setup and Documentation CD menu appears, click the Install button
for the BESTCOMSPro application. The setup utility installs BESTCOMSPro and the .NET
Framework on your PC (if not already installed).
When BESTCOMSPro installation is complete, a Basler Electric folder is added to the Windows programs
menu. This folder is accessed by clicking the Windows Start button and then accessing the Basler
Electric folder in the Programs menu. The Basler Electric folder contains an icon that starts
BESTCOMSPro when clicked.

Running BESTCOMS™Pro
To run BESTCOMSPro, click Start, point to All Programs, Basler Electric, and then click the
BESTCOMSPro icon. During initial startup, the BESTCOMSPro Select Language screen is displayed as
shown in Figure 8. You can choose to have this screen displayed each time BESTCOMSPro is started, or
you can select a preferred language and this screen is bypassed in the future. Click OK to continue. This
screen can be accessed later by selecting Tools and Select Language from the menu bar.

Figure 8. Select Language Window

The Basler Electric splash screen is displayed for a brief time. See Figure 9.

Figure 9. Basler Electric BESTCOMSPro Splash Screen

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BESTCOMSPro will load and a log on dialog box appears. See Figure 10.

Figure 10. Log On Dialog Box

Enter your user initials and click the OK button.

Note
When you start BESTCOMSPro, the main BESTCOMSPro window
contains limited pull down menus, a brief tool bar, and a gray working
area.
To enable the full menu selection, toolbars, and windows a
connection to a controller must be established or a valid
configuration file must be loaded. After either of these occurs the
following elements appear.
• An extended toolbar along the top of the window.
• Two panels, called the 'View Explorer' and 'Settings Explorer',
which list the various windows and functions that are
available.
• A status bar in the bottom border of the window. The status
bar displays reference information such as the current
controller state and your security level. It also displays a brief
description of the block, input, or output as you work with
objects in a window.

Activation Key
When BESTCOMSPro is run for the first time, you are prompted to activate the software. If you choose
not to activate, you will have Security Level 1 (Read-Only) access to the device and to any configuration
files that are opened. If you choose to activate the software, you will receive an activation key from Basler
which also contains your default security level. Refer to Security Levels in this chapter for more
information.
To activate BESTCOMSPro and unlock the ability to tune and modify the configuration to better fit your
application, click Help, Activate BESTCOMSPro. The Activation Notice dialog box appears (Figure 11).

Figure 11. Activation Notice Dialog Box

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If read-only access is the only type of access needed, then check the “Do not show this message again”
box and click OK.
Click the “Activate” button to proceed with BESTCOMSPro activation. The Activation window appears
(Figure 12). Enter the name of your company into the Company field and click the Email button. This sets
up an email to Basler Electric requesting an activation key. Click Send.

Figure 12. Activation Window

When the activation key is received, copy it from the email, paste it into the Activation Key field, and click
the Activate button. A notification appears if the key is incorrect. If the activation is successful, a
notification appears next to the Activate button. Click Close.

Connecting to an Excitation Control Module (ECM-2)

In order to utilize the capabilities of BESTCOMSPro you must first connect to the Excitation Control
Module (ECM-2), found within the DECS-2100. Connecting to the Bridge Control Module (BCM) is done
through the ECM-2, See Connecting to a BCM below. There are several methods used to connect to a
controller.
• Ethernet: Connect to a controller using a standard Ethernet cable.
• COM Port: Connect to a controller using a standard RS-232 cable.
• USB: Connect to a controller using a standard Type-B USB cable.
• Remote Connection: This option is not supported by the DECS-2100. It is used to connect to the
ECS2100.

Ethernet

Ensure that the PC is connected to the controller using a standard Ethernet cable.

Click Connect under the File menu or the button on the toolbar.
The Connect dialog box appears as shown in Figure 13.
Select the Ethernet tab.
Click the down arrow to the right of the Host Name drop down list, a list of options appears.

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Figure 13. Connection Window, Ethernet Tab

Click Add IP address. The IP Address dialog appears as shown in Figure 14.

Figure 14. Adding an IP Address

Enter the desired name of the new connection in the top field.
Enter the IP address in the bottom four fields and click OK.
Click Search. The Search Controllers dialog box appears as shown in Figure 15.

Figure 15. Searching for Controllers

BESTCOMSPro searches for connected devices. The search process can be shortened by decreasing
the range and timeout duration.
Click Close after the search is complete.

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Select the ECM-2 from the Address Drop down List and Click OK.
Wait for the connection process to complete.

COM Port

1. Ensure that the PC is connected to the controller using an RS-232 cable.

2. Click Connect under the File menu or the button on the toolbar.
3. The Connect dialog box appears as shown in Figure 16.
4. Select the COM Port tab.
5. Leave the default factory settings as they are.
6. Input “255” into the Address field.
7. Click OK.
8. Wait for the connection process to complete.

Figure 16. Connection Window, COM Port Tab

USB

1. Ensure that the PC is connected to the controller using a Type-B USB cable.
2. The Found New Hardware Wizard appears after powering on the ECM-2 and connecting the USB
cable.
3. Select, “No, not this time.” and click Next.
4. Select, “Install the software automatically (Recommended)”, and click Next.
5. Wait for the installation to complete. Click Finish.

6. Click Connect under the File menu or the button on the toolbar.
7. The Connect dialog box appears as shown in Figure 17.
8. Select the USB Tab.
9. Input “255” into the Address field.
10. Click OK.

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11. Wait for the connection process to complete.

Figure 17. Connection Window, USB Tab

Manual USB Driver Installation

A failure to establish communication through the USB port may be caused by a failure of the automatic
installation of the ECM-2 USB driver in Windows®. This condition is indicated by a Driver Software
Installation error message. To install the ECM-2 USB driver manually, perform the following steps.
1. Open the Windows Device Manager. Under Other Devices, right-click on ECM-2 (or Unknown
Device) and select Properties.
2. In the Properties window, select the Driver tab and click the Update Driver button.
3. Select “Browse my computer for driver software” and then navigate to:
C:\Program Files\Basler Electric\USB Device Drivers\USBIO
Install the USB driver software. Successful installation will be indicated by a confirmation
message.

Connecting to a BCM
First establish a connection to an ECM-2 using one of the methods described above. Click File, Bridge
Connect… The Bridge Connect dialog box appears (Figure 18).

Figure 18. Bridge Connect Dialog Box

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Select a bridge from the Bridge drop-down list and click OK. Wait for connection to complete. If
connection cannot be established, alternate paths to the BCM can be specified. Click the Alternate Paths
button; the Alternate Bridge Paths dialog box appears (Figure 19). Follow the directions in the dialog box.
Use the Search button to automatically search for other controller addresses on the network. Click OK
when done.

Figure 19. Alternate Bridge Paths Dialog Box

Overview of Functions
Introduction
Most BESTCOMSPro capabilities lie in three main window types: the Configuration Window, the View
Explorer, and the Settings Explorer. The functions of these windows are described in this chapter. See
Figure 20 for locations of the configuration, View Explorer, and Settings Explorer windows.

Figure 20. Multiple Sessions, View and Settings Explorers Sub-Windows

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Set State Icon

The Set State icon is used to view or change the state of the device. See Table 4.
Table 4. Set State Icon Descriptions
State Description
Open Config File - all off
< Resolved - all off
Resolved - red, yellow on; green off
Initialized - red on; green, yellow off
- red, yellow on; green off
Blocks Executing - green on; red, yellow off
- all on
Application Go - all off
- all on

Configuration Window
A configuration file stores the programmable logic block configuration and all controller settings. In
BESTCOMSPro multiple configuration sessions may be opened simultaneously and each session is
contained in its own window that can be manipulated via the 'Window' menu. The window in which you
are currently working is referred to as the active window and has a blue header. The configuration
window is indicated by the two configuration window locators in Figure 20.

Window Docking
A docking feature, within the view and settings explorers, allows arrangement and docking of multiple
metering screens. Clicking and dragging a metering screen tab displays a blue, transparent square,
several arrow boxes, and a tab box. These docking elements are illustrated in Figure 21.
Dragging the blue square to the “up” (locator A), “right” (locator B), or “down” (locator C) arrow box places
the selected metering screen across the top, along the side, or at the bottom of the window. Once placed,
the screen’s thumbtack icon can be clicked to dock the screen on the corresponding top, right, or lower
bar. A docked screen is viewed by hovering the mouse pointer over the docked screen.
Dragging the blue square to one of the four arrow boxes (locator D) places the screen inside the selected
window according to the arrow box selected. A metering screen can be placed as a tab inside the
selected window by dropping the screen on the tab box at the center of the four arrow boxes.
Dragging the blue square anywhere other than one of the arrow/tab boxes places the selected metering
screen as a floating window.

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Figure 21. Window Docking

Programmable Logic

Caution
This product contains one or more nonvolatile memory devices. Nonvolatile
memory is used to store information (such as settings) that needs to be
preserved when the product is power-cycled or otherwise restarted.
Established nonvolatile memory technologies have a physical limit on the
number of times they can be erased and written. In this product, the limit is
100,000 erase/write cycles. During product application, consideration should
be given to communications, logic, and other factors that may cause
frequent/repeated writes of settings or other information that is retained by the
product. Applications that result in such frequent/repeated writes may reduce
the useable product life and result in loss of information and/or product
inoperability.

Introduction
BESTCOMSPro programmable logic is a programming method used for managing the input, output,
control, monitoring, and reporting capabilities of Basler Electric's DECS-2100 system. The DECS-2100
has multiple, self-contained logic blocks that have all of the inputs and outputs of its discrete component
counterpart. Each independent logic block interacts with control inputs and hardware outputs based on
logic variables defined in BESTCOMSPro. Configurations entered and saved in the DECS-2100 system's
nonvolatile memory integrate (electronically wire) the selected or enabled control blocks with control
inputs and hardware outputs. A group of connected functions, defining the logic of the DECS-2100, is
called a logic configuration.

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One default active logic configuration is pre-loaded into the DECS-2100. This scheme is configured for a
typical control application and virtually eliminates the need for "start-from-scratch" programming.
BESTCOMSPro can be used to open a logic configuration that was previously saved as a file and upload
it to the DECS-2100. The default logic configuration can also be customized to suit your application.
The BESTCOMSPro application is first used to define all configuration information in a file on the PC.
Once the controller is in a resolved state, BESTCOMSPro is used to download the information to the
Random Access Memory (RAM) of the controller. You then use BESTCOMSPro to fine tune configuration
values as needed within RAM. Because information in RAM is lost in the event of a power cycle, you save
the configuration information from RAM to permanent flash memory after you have tested and are
satisfied with the configuration. At power-up, the configuration is taken from flash and overwrites the RAM
values. Figure 22 illustrates the process.

Figure 22. Model for Programming a Controller

Easy Screens
All special functions within BESTCOMSPro are controlled by logic blocks including real-time monitoring,
auto-tuning, and event recording to name a few. Logic block inputs and outputs are changed to fit a
specific application, and when many changes are involved, the process can become tedious.
BESTCOMSPro provides easy screens to keep logic block tuning simple. Easy screens interface directly
with the associated logic block. Entering information into the fields of an easy screen is equivalent to
navigating to the block and changing the information manually. There are many different easy screens.
One example is the event recorder configuration window located in the Settings Explorer, General
Settings, Event Recorder Setup, Configuration. Typically, each of the four event recorder blocks are
manually set up by adding the block and then assigning inputs in either the diagram or application
configuration windows. When it is decided that a different set of events needs to be recorded, the data
inputs need to be changed, the number of samples taken, the number of pre-trigger samples, the number
of active channels, and so on. With the event recorder configuration window, there is no need to navigate
to each event recorder block in the diagram or application configuration window; all of the relevant
controls are in one place.

Controller States
Table 5 describes the controller states that are tracked within BESTCOMSPro.

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Table 5. Controller State Descriptions

State Description
Unknown This state indicates that there is no response from the controller or the response
cannot be understood. An unknown state can result from losing the connection to the
controller or an error in the controller. You cannot set this state. Once in this state,
the connection or controller problem must be corrected before operation can
continue.
Boot Use the Boot state only when you need to load new firmware into the controller.

Click in the toolbar or Set State under the Controller menu to open the Set Run State dialog box,
Figure 23.

Figure 23. Controller States Dialog Box

Programming a Controller
The following steps lead you through adding and assigning a logic block into an already existing logic
configuration. Since the DECS-2100 is already loaded with a working logic configuration, “starting-from-
scratch” programming is not covered.
1) Connect to Controller
a) Establish a connection to the control module that is to be programmed. A connection can either
be made to the excitation control module (ECM-2) or the bridge control module (BCM).
2) Copy RAM to File
a) Under the Configurations menu, click Copy RAM to File. The logic configuration currently loaded
in RAM is copied to the file. The configuration in the file can be altered while disconnected from
the control module.
3) Add Blocks
a) Navigate to a blank area of the diagram where you would like to place the logic block.

b) Click the Add Block button. The add block window appears. Select one of the available
“AND” blocks. The input, output, and execution strategies areas are enabled. See Figure 24.

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Figure 24. Add Block Window

4) Assign Inputs
a) The possible inputs are listed on the left side. Unassigned inputs are indicated by a yellow
warning symbol. Constants and available outputs are on the right side.
b) Select input “ANDXX_IN1” from the list on the left.
c) Click the From Output tab and select an output from the drop down list. This list contains all
possible outputs from all active logic blocks in the current configuration.
d) Assign outputs to the rest of the inputs for ANDXX.
e) Click OK when finished.
Connections can also be made by clicking and dragging a line from an output to an input in the diagram
window. See Assigning Blocks, Drawing a Connection Line above.
5) Copying the Configuration to RAM
Copying to RAM sends the entire configuration to the control module and overwrites all values currently in
RAM. The control module can then begin executing the new logic configuration. Be sure you want to do
this before proceeding. Below are some notes about copying to RAM:
• If you added or removed a block in the file configuration, changed the type of an input, or
changed input values, you must have a security level of Change Configurations to copy to RAM.
• All blocks in the file configuration must be completely configured before copying to RAM. If one or
more blocks are not completely configured, the Copy to RAM command allows you to configure
them at this point.
• The control module must be in the resolved state. If it is not, the Copy to RAM command asks if
you want to change the state to Resolved.
• The configuration you copy to RAM is not automatically put into execution. After copying, you
must change the state from Resolved to Executing Blocks as part of verifying the RAM
configuration.
To Copy to RAM:
Choose Copy to RAM from the Configurations menu.
If one or more blocks in the file configuration are not completely configured, a dialog asks if you want to
configure the blocks. Click Yes to have the operation proceed. Click No to cancel the copy.
If the controller state is not Resolved, a dialog asks if you want to change the state to Resolved. Click Yes
to change the state to Resolved, or No to cancel the copy.
A dialog warns you that the current values in RAM are to be overwritten and asks if you want to continue.
Click Yes to proceed, or No to cancel the copy.

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The file configuration values are copied to RAM.

6) Verifying the RAM Configuration
After copying to RAM, the new RAM values must be put into execution. The values can then be
monitored and fine tuned as needed to verify that they are correct.

a) Click the Set State icon in the toolbar, or choose Set State from the Controller menu.
b) Click the Executing Blocks radio button, and then click OK. The RAM configuration is put into
execution.
c) In the View Explorer, Diagram View, select Dgm RAM.
d) Check the Display RAM Values checkbox in the diagram window toolbox to display the actual
RAM values.
e) Monitor the RAM values to ensure that they are correct. If necessary, you can change an input
value but cannot change the input type.
7) Saving to Flash and File
When fine-tuning of the RAM configuration is complete, it can then be saved to flash. To create a backup
copy of the fine-tuned configuration, copy RAM or flash to the file configuration.
a) To save the RAM configuration to flash, choose Copy RAM to Flash from the Configurations
menu. A dialog asks you to confirm that you want to overwrite everything in flash.
b) To copy to the file configuration, choose Copy RAM to File or Copy Flash to File from the
Configurations menu. A dialog asks you to confirm that you want to overwrite everything in the file
configuration. After you copy, use Save or Save As to save the file configuration to disk.

Data Monitoring
BESTCOMS™Pro has two data monitoring functions: a data logger and an event recorder. The data
logger is used to sample system data at specified intervals. The event recorder is used to record system
data when specific triggers occur.

Data Logger
The data logger is a special function block that logs samples of data at designated intervals. Outputs from
other function blocks that you want to monitor are applied to the inputs of the data logger function block.
The time interval for sampling the data is also specified. Once the data logger is configured and enabled,
it records data at the prescribed intervals. Viewing of logged data is done at the user’s convenience.

Note
The data logger writes the sampled data to a 100,000 point buffer.
When the buffer is full, the data logger begins to overwrite the existing
data from the top of the buffer. The buffer is cleared when the state
changes to Executing or when you change an input while in the
Executing state. Before clearing the buffer, save the data to the PC
(See Managing Logger Data below). The logged data is saved to flash
memory every hour.

Data Logger Setup

Data logger setup is accomplished on a single BESTCOMSPro screen, illustrated in Figure 25. The
setup process consists of adding a data logger block to the configuration and then assigning other logic
block outputs to the data logger inputs. This process is outlined in the following steps.

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1. In the Settings Explorer of BESTCOMSPro, select and view the Data Recording Setup screen.
2. Select DATA_LOGGER from the list of logic blocks.
3. Place a checkmark in the Assigned checkbox to enable the data logger.
4. Select the number of desired data channels.
5. Enter the desired sample rate (interval) in seconds.
6. Make a data assignment for each monitored channel. Once the data assignments are made, the data
logger begins logging data from the specified logic block outputs at the logging interval specified.

Figure 25. Data Logger Configuration Screen

Event Recorders
An event recorder is a special function block that records the values related to an event. Set up an event
recorder when you want to capture the data related to a single event. You specify the inputs to the
function block as the event triggers and you specify the outputs that you want to record. You enable the
event recorder when you want the controller to start monitoring for an occurrence of the trigger. When the
trigger occurs, the event is recorded and an Attentions notification is displayed in the upper, right area of
the BESTCOMSPro window. This notification informs you that event data is available for viewing. Event
recorders are configured on a single event recorder setup screen which is illustrated in Figure 26. event
recorder attributes and settings are described in the following paragraphs.

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Figure 26. Event Recorder Configuration Screen

Event Record Triggers

There are two types of event record triggers: logic and float. For a logic trigger, you define whether a true
or false value for a specific output triggers the event. For a float trigger, an event is triggered if the value
of a specific output falls outside a minimum and maximum value that you define. The event recorder
saves both pre-trigger and post-trigger data. You specify a time interval for sampling the data and how
many samples you want taken for the pre-trigger and total samples.

Figure 27. Assign Input Window

Logic Triggers
Logic triggers are selected through the Logic Trigger tab of the event recorder setup screen. Clicking the
button beside the logic trigger field opens the Assign Input window of Figure 27. This window has two
tabs: From Output and Constant. Any active logic block (and its outputs) on the From Output tab can be
selected as a trigger.

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Float Triggers
Float triggers are selected through the Float Trigger tab of the vent recorder setup screen. Clicking the
button beside the float trigger field opens the Assign Input window of Figure 27. This window has two
tabs: From Output and Constant. Any active logic block (and its outputs) on the From Output tab can be
selected as a trigger.
Rise/Fall Levels
The Rise Level and Fall Level values define the threshold at which the selected trigger signal will trigger
the event.

Buffer Allocation
The event recorder does not have any of the buffer overwrite concerns that were noted previously for the
data logger. Four event recorder logic blocks are available in BESTCOMSPro. Eight channels of data can
be recorded per block. A total of 100,000 samples can be taken per block. This number of samples is
divided equally between the active channels, so 50,000 samples can be recorded per channel on a two-
channel record and 12,500 samples can be recorded per channel on an eight-channel record.
The buffer allocation bar, found on the event recorder configuration screen shows the percentage of the
buffer that has been reserved for recording.

Function Block Inputs

Table 6 lists the event recorder block inputs.
Table 6. Event Recorder Block Inputs
Input Name Description
DATA1 – These inputs represent the eight data channels. Each channel records data from a
DATA8 logic block output.
ENABLE This input enables or disables the event recorder.
NSAMPLES This input accepts the total number of samples to be taken.
PRE_TRIG This input accepts the number of total samples to be recorded before the trigger.
RATE This input accepts the multiplier of the sampling rate. The minimum sampling rate is
1 millisecond between samples.
NSIGNALS This input accepts the number of channels to use when recording data.
TRIG_FLT This input is assigned to the output of a logic block to act as the trigger source. If a
float trigger is not needed, then a constant (0) can be assigned to this input, disabling
it.
RISE_LEVEL This input accepts the high level. When the TRIG_FLT input value exceeds this input
value then the event triggers.
FALL_LEVEL This input accepts the low level. When the TRIG_FLT input value drops below this
input value then the event triggers.
TRIG_LOG This input is assigned to the output of a logic block to act as the trigger source. When
this input receives a 1 (true) from the source it triggers the event. If a logic trigger is
not needed, then a constant (false) can be assigned to this input, disabling it.

Configuration
An event recorder block can be added to the file configuration or removed from the file configuration by
using the Assigned checkbox. This option is enabled only when the File radio button is selected.
Up to eight channels of data can be selected for an event record through the Number of Channels field.
The default, total number of data samples can be customized by clicking the Override button and entering
the desired number in the Number of Samples field. The number of pre-trigger data samples can be
adjusted, up to the value of the total number of samples, through the Pre-Trigger Samples field. The read-
only Post-Trigger Samples field automatically adjusts to reflect changes in the number of pre-trigger
samples selected.
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The data sample rate, expressed in milliseconds, is used to establish a multiplier of the sampling rate and
is entered in the Sample Rate field.

Channels
Data channels for each event recorder can be viewed and edited by selecting the desired event record
located under Data Recording Blocks. The selected channels and their assignments are then displayed in
tabular format on the event recorder configuration screen. Clicking a channel assignment field presents a
submenu containing a button beside the channel assignment field. Clicking this button opens an Assign
Input window where logic outputs and the corresponding constants can be selected.

Setup
Event recorder setup is accomplished on a single BESTCOMSPro screen, illustrated in Figure 26. The
setup process consists of selecting the trigger source, configuring the record parameters, and making the
logic assignments for each channel. This process is outlined in the following steps.
1. In the Settings Explorer of BESTCOMSPro select and view the Data Recording Setup screen.
2. Select one of the four event recorders from the Data Recording Blocks list.
3. Decide whether a logic trigger or float trigger is appropriate for the task.
a. If a logic trigger is desired, access the Assign Input window by clicking the button adjacent to the
Logic Trigger field on the Logic Trigger tab. On the Assign Input window, select the desired logic
block output to trigger the record and select the constant (condition) which will trigger the record.
b. If a float trigger is desired, access the Assign Input window by clicking the button adjacent to the
Float Trigger field on the Float Trigger tab. On the Assign Input window, select the desired logic
block output to trigger the record and select the constant (condition) which will trigger the record.
Return to the Float Trigger tab and enter the desired Rise and Fall levels (thresholds).
4. Assign the desired number of recording channels in the Number of Channels field.
5. If the number of desired record samples differs from the default value, place a checkmark in the
Override checkbox and enter the desired number of samples in the Number of Samples field.
6. Establish the desired number of pre-trigger samples in the Pre-Trigger Samples field.
7. Enter the sample rate multiplier (in milliseconds) in the Sample Rate field.
8. Make variable assignments to each channel for the data record. This process consists of accessing
the Assign Input window and selecting the desired logic block outputs and constants. Repeat this step
for each of the remaining channels.

Managing Logger Data

Viewing, Saving, and Clearing Data
Select Events & Data Loggers in the View Explorer, Reports. This displays the Events & Data Loggers
window, as shown in Figure 28.
Find the data logger or event recorder in the list and click the View button to display the graph.
Clicking Save gives you the option to save the graph as a data logger (.dlg), text (.txt), CSV (.csv), or
IEEE COMTRADE (.cfg) file.
Clear resets the graph data.

Figure 28. Events & Data Loggers Window

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Loading Logger Data

Under the File menu, point to Data Logger and click Open Data Logger File… from the menu. The data
logger graph appears and displays the file in graph form.
Manipulating the Graph
Figure 29 displays the locations of channel select, Y-zoom, zoom factor, C1, C2, and the status bar.

Figure 29. Graph Window Locators

The data logger / event recorder graph commands are listed in Table 7.
Table 7. Graph Commands
Command Description
File
Close Close the current file.
Save Save the current file.
Save As… Save the current file under a different name.
View
Time Information Show / hide time information.
Channel Data Properties Displays a window containing a list of the data logger channel outputs.
Cursor 1 / 2
Move into View Move cursor 1 / 2 into center of view.
Goto Move center of view to cursor 1 / 2.
Selected Item
Goto Move center of view to the selected item.

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Command Description
Move into View Move the selected item into center of view.
Options: Cursors
Snap to Data Points The cursor snaps to the nearest data point.
Set Slider to Cursor Colors The cursor slider becomes the color of the cursor.
Options: Channels
Display Channel Names The channel name is displayed on the left.
Set Slider to Selected The channel slider becomes the color of the channel.
Channel Color
Highlight Selected Highlights the selected channel. The data points and lines become
bold.
Set all Channels to Default Resets zoom on all channels.
Vertical Scales
Zoom all Channels Enable or disable simultaneous zoom on all channels.
Options: Data Lines
Display Data Points Show / hide data points.
Show Point Values on The data point value is displayed in the tooltip.
Mouseover
None Hides the connecting lines between data points.
Step Connecting lines between data points are displayed as a series of
steps.
Interpolated Connecting lines between data points are smoothed.
Smooth Connecting lines between data points are smoothed.
Options: X-Axis
Auto Fit Automatically fits the window to the width (x-axis) of the data points.
Show Dates on Axis The time and date appears along the x-axis at each major division.
Format: No Format Displays time along the x-axis in milliseconds.
Format: Duration (00:05:45) Displays time along the x-axis in this format.
Format: Formatted Time Displays time along the x-axis in this format.
(5 min, 45 s)
Set Window Size Choose window size between 25 ms and 12 months.
Options: Grid
Set Background Color Choose any color to set as the background.
Hide Grid Lines Show / hide the grid lines.
Set Grid Height Set grid height between 100 and 5000.
Below the Toolbar
Selected Channel Y-Zoom This slider changes the Y-axis zoom.
Zoom Factor The Y-axis zoom slider position is multiplied by the number selected in
this list.
C1, C2 Assign the cursor to a different channel by selecting the channel from
this list.
Right Click in the Graph
Copy Copy an image of the graph to the clipboard.
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Command Description
Save Image As… Save the image of the graph as a .emf, .png, .gif, .jpg, .tif, or .bmp file.
Page Setup… Prepare the page for printing.
Print… Print the graph.
Show Point Values Enables or disables the data point value to be displayed in the tooptip
on mouseover.
Goto Cursor 1 / 2 Move center of view to cursor 1 / 2.
Move Cursor 1/ 2 into View Move cursor 1 / 2 into center of view.
Goto Selected Item Move center of view to selected item.
Move Selected Item into View Move selected item into center of view.
Status Bar
C1 X Displays the current position of cursor 1 on the x-axis in seconds.
C1 Y Displays the value of the data point that intersects with cursor 1.
C2 X Displays the current position of cursor 2 on the x-axis in seconds.
C2 Y Displays the value of the data point that intersects with cursor 2.
dX Displays the time difference between cursor 1 and 2 on the x-axis in
seconds.
dY Displays the difference between the data point values that intersect
cursor 1 and 2.
Channel Select Drop-down List: Displays a list of all active channels (up to 12). Each channel has
options for channel select, ID number, name, visibility, color, cursor 1 and cursor 2. See Figure 30.
Click the box in the first column of the channel to select it as the active channel, an arrow icon appears in
the box to indicate that the channel has been selected.
The ID number corresponds to the data logger logic block input of the same number.
The Name field stores the name of the channel, a custom name can be entered.
Clicking the Visible box shows or hides the channel.
Channel colors can be selected by clicking the Color button.
One or both cursors can be assigned to a channel by clicking the corresponding radio button.

Figure 30. Channel Select Drop-down List

Monitor View Setup

A monitor view is a set of memory locations that can be monitored in one place. The user can select
between logic block inputs and outputs, memory / MODBUS, holding registers, and coils.
Setup Procedure
1. Open the Monitor View Setup window under Settings Explorer, General Settings (Figure 31).
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Figure 31. Monitor View Setup Screen

2. Click Add to add a new monitor view. This expands the current window, adding a second division.
3. In the second division, there is a Monitor Window Name field. Enter the desired name for the new
monitor view.
4. In the second division, click Add to add a new memory location. This expands the current window
further, creating a third division.
5. In the third division, select a location to monitor from one of the three tabs labeled Registers,
Inputs/Outputs, and Memory. The Registers tab has additional selections for configuring coils as
monitored locations. It also has additional controls (not shown here) for working with 32-bit values.
Two 16-bit holding registers can be combined into a single 32-bit value. The Swap button specifies
how the registers are combined while the Swap Registers checkbox reverses the sequence of the
registers.
6. Click Apply. The third division of the window is removed. More locations can be added at this point by
repeating steps 4 and 5.
7. In the second division, click Save when all of the desired memory locations are set. The second
division is removed and new monitor view appears in the original monitor view setup window.
8. The monitor view that was just created now appears in View Explorer, System Views, Monitor Views.
Clicking the monitor view displays a window containing all the specified memory locations in table
form.

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Figure 32. Monitor View Window

View Explorer
The View Explorer is a convenient tool within BESTCOMSPro used to navigate through the various
windows. After you connect to a controller or load a saved configuration file, you can use the View
Explorer to display one or more of the following windows in the working area of the main configuration
window. Different window options appear depending on the type of connected control module. Each tab
displayed to the right upon clicking the View Explorer options can be undocked and made into a free
floating window. The View Explorer panel can be hidden via the View drop down button on the toolbar.
The ‘x’ button hides the View Explorer and the thumbtack icon allows it to be docked. A docked screen is
viewed by hovering the mouse pointer over the docked screen.

View Explorer Windows

The window options that are available to an excitation control module (ECM-2) differ from those available
to a bridge control module (BCM). Table 8 lists the windows available to the specific control modules.
Table 8. Control Module View Explorer Window Availability
Window ECM-2 BCM
System Views
Diagram View Windows ● ●
Execution View Windows ● ●
Mainline Execution View ●
Application Config View ● ●
Memory View (only available with Security Level 5) ● ●
Monitor Views ● ●
Metering
Control Panel ●
Sync Panel ●
Generator ●
Main Field ●
Adjuster ●
Limiter ●
GSU Transformer ●
PPT ●
Exciter Field ●

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Window ECM-2 BCM

Other ●
Real Time Clock ● ●
Status
System Status ●
Alarms (Status) ●
Limiters ●
System Trip ●
Transfer ●
Inputs ● ●
Outputs ●
Bridge Status ●
Commissioning Windows (All) ●
Reports Windows (All) ● ●

Indicators
Many of the metering screens, within the View Explorer, contain indicators. These color-coded indicators
display the current mode of their corresponding function. Usually associated with status or mode
indicators, green denotes a TRUE condition. A red indicator denotes a TRUE condition as well, but is
associated with alarm/error and breaker status. Yellow denotes a picked-up status for alarms and limiters.
Indicators are always gray when denoting a FALSE condition. Figure 33, Figure 34, and Figure 35
illustrate the different indicator colors.

Figure 33. Limiters Window: Yellow, Red, and Gray Indicators

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Figure 34. System Status Window: Green and Gray Indicators

Figure 35. Alarms Window: Red and Gray Indicators

Diagram View
The Diagram View windows display and allow manipulation of a block diagram representation of a
configuration in file and RAM. Flash diagrams can only be viewed. See Figure 36.

Figure 36. Diagram View Window

The diagram window is the workspace where programming can be done in BESTCOMSPro. In this
window the logic block configuration is represented graphically, logic blocks and their connections can be
easily manipulated using click-and-drag and right click popup options. Undocking the diagram window
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allows the user to move it to a more convenient location or even a second monitor. Pan, zoom, and
search functions are available for easy navigation.

Setting up the Diagram View Windows

There are three types of diagram windows.
• Dgm Flash: Allows the user to view the current logic configuration stored in the flash.
• Dgm RAM: Allows the user to view and fine tune the current logic configuration stored in RAM.
• Dgm File: Allows the user to view a configuration file saved on the PC, create a new
configuration file, or make changes to an existing one.
In the View Explorer, System Views, Diagram View, Click Dgm Flash, Dgm RAM, or Dgm File to display
the desired diagram window.

Window Contents
The diagram window displays a great deal of information to the user. The information is categorized and
described below. Figure 37 shows connected logic blocks in the diagram window.
RAM Runtime Values: Monitor runtime values when the RAM configuration is displayed.
Object Specific Commands: Right-click on an input, output, connection, or block to display a menu of
commands specific to that type of object.
Show / Hide Elements: Display or hide connections and blocks to view only the information of interest.
Block information is shown in the Diagram window (except when you are displaying the actual RAM
runtime values) as follows:
• Inputs are shown on the left of the block and outputs on the right of the block. The input and
output names (or abbreviated names) are shown inside the block.
• Constant values are shown above the connection line, such as for the K1 through KC inputs of
the AUTO_REG block.
• Connections can be made visible or invisible. When visible, the connection line is shown as
illustrated below for the connection between the VOLT_ERROR output of the AUTO_REG block
and the VOLT_ERROR input of the AUTO_MXR block. When invisible, the output name appears
next to the input line, as illustrated below for AUTO_REG inputs such as PSS2_OUT.
• When an output has multiple connections, the number of connections is shown on the output line,
such as for the VOLT_ERROR output of the AUTO_REG block.
• Pink lines in the diagram indicate that the line is not orthogonal. You can add points to make the
line orthogonal.

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Figure 37. Block Inputs and Outputs

Diagram Toolbar Commands

The diagram window has its own special commands and tools for the creation and manipulation of logic
block configurations. The location of the menu commands and the toolbar is shown in Figure 38.

Figure 38. Diagram Window Toolbar Location

Table 9 describes the available menu and toolbar commands for the diagram window.

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Table 9. Menu and Toolbar Commands

Menu Items Description
View
Zoom to Fit Zooms out until the diagram fits into the current window.
Zoom to Box Zooms in to an area that you specify by drawing a rectangle.
Zoom to Base View Zooms the diagram to a one-to-one ratio. Position the cursor at the
location that you want to be the center of the new zoomed area, and
then left click.
Zoom In Zooms in incrementally.
Zoom Out Zooms out incrementally.
Block Properties Opens a window showing the status of existing blocks.
View Page Breaks Displays lines in the diagram to represent the boundaries of individual
pages if printed.
Display Engineering Units Toggles visibility of engineering units in diagram.
Display RAM Values Toggles visibility of RAM values in diagram.
Redraw Redraws the diagram.
Refresh RAM Values Refreshes RAM values.
Navigation Window Displays a map of the diagram in a new window. Drag a box to zoom
to that location.
Tools
Find… Search for blocks.
Allow Dynamic Edit Enables or disables dynamic edit. You must enable dynamic edit in
order to edit the drawing and configuration information.
Export to Metafile Save diagram in metafile format.
Resize Drawing Canvas Input exact dimensions to resize diagram window.
Page Setup… Change printer settings and page size.
Show Invisible Ports Toggles visibility of invisible ports.
Toolbar
Enables or disables dynamic edit. You must enable dynamic edit in
Toggle Dynamic Edit order to edit the drawing and configuration information.
Dragging the cursor anywhere in the diagram (either on an object or
Pan outside an object) pans the diagram.
Dragging the cursor when not on a block or connection line draws a
Rectangle Select Mode rectangle and selects the objects in the rectangle.
Click anywhere in the diagram to zoom in.
Zoom In Mode
Zooms out until the diagram fits into the current window.
Zoom to Fit
Zooms in to an area that you specify by drawing a rectangle.
Zoom to Box
Zooms the diagram to a one-to-one ratio. Position the cursor at the
Zoom to Base View (1:1) location that you want to be the center of the new zoomed area, and
then left click.
Zooms in incrementally.
Zoom In

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Menu Items Description

Zooms out incrementally.
Zoom Out
In the RAM configuration when the controller is executing, you can use
Toggle RAM Values this command to view or hide RAM values.

Shortcut Menus
Different shortcut menus are displayed depending on where you right-click in the diagram window. The
shortcut menus are illustrated below in Figure 39.

Figure 39. Right-Click Shortcut Menus in Diagram Window

Navigating in the Diagram

As stated above, there are three types of diagram windows. There are also three types of execution
windows. All of these windows including others contain information on the active logic blocks in a
configuration. Navigating to a specific logic block in a specific window can be confusing. BESTCOMSPro
has several powerful tools to make navigation easy.

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Panning and Scroll Bars

Pan: Use the pan tool to move the diagram in any direction by clicking in a blank area of the
diagram and dragging.
Scroll Bars: Standard scroll bars.

The Find Command

Use the Find command (Tools menu, Find…) to search for any logic block in any window. The drop down
list at the top contains all of the searchable windows, the list at the bottom contains all of the searchable
logic blocks, and specific names can be entered into the blank field in the middle.
Pan to Connection
Use Pan to Connection to automatically center view on the opposite end of the current connection. Right
click on an input or output (not the connection line) and select Pan to Connection. The entire connection
line blinks blue and the input / output connectors blink red. Click anywhere to end the blinking.
Pan to Block
Use Pan to Block to automatically center view on a block selected from a list of active blocks. Click the
Show Block Properties check box in the diagram window. This opens a docked window containing a list of
all active blocks. Find the desired block in the list and right click, select Pan to Block. The block is
centered in view and blinking.
Find in Window
Use Find in Window to center view on the same selected logic block, input, output, or connection line in a
different window. For example, if you’re viewing a logic block in the Dgm Flash window and want to make
changes to the same block in the Dgm RAM window. Right click on a logic block, input, output, or
connection line and point to Find in Window a sub-menu appears with a list of window options.
Navigation Window
The navigation window displays a miniature map of the entire diagram. Click and drag a box in the
navigation window to zoom to that location in the diagram window. The Navigation Window command is
found under the View menu.
Zooming
The zoom commands and their descriptions can be found above in the Menu and Toolbar Commands
table.

Assigning Blocks in the Diagram

Adding a Block

• Under the Configurations pull down menu click Add Block or click the icon on the toolbar.
• Select the block to be added from the list.
• Select the execution strategy tab and select a number of execution cycles from the drop down list.
• Click on a lower cell in the table to change the position of the time slices.
• Select the Input Assignment tab.
• To change the assignment type, click the Constant or From Output tab.
• For a constant value, type a value and click the radio button that identifies the type of value as
decimal, hexadecimal...
• For a From Output value, select the block and output from the drop-down lists.
• If there are any potential problems with this assignment, a confirmation dialog asks you to verify
making the assignment. Click Yes to continue, or No to return to the Input Assignment dialog.
• Repeat for all remaining inputs.

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• In this example all block inputs have been assigned. To end the command, click OK. If all inputs had
not been assigned, the unassigned input(s) would be listed in the Configure Blocks dialog under
Configurations.
• The block is now added to the configuration. However, the newly added block is not visible in the
diagram. See Displaying and Positioning a Block, below, for details on block visibility.
Displaying and Positioning a Block

Enable Dynamic Edit . Click the Show Block Properties check box in the diagram window. This
opens a docked window containing a list of all active blocks and their visibility status. Find the desired
block in the list and right click, select Display Block. The block is centered in view and blinking. Click and
drag the block to the desired location.
Selecting and Moving Blocks

Enable Dynamic Edit to move blocks.

To move a single block, click and drag the block. (In Pan Mode or Select Rectangle Mode )
To move multiple blocks, hold down the Ctrl key and select each block, then click and drag one of the
selected blocks to move them all.

In Rectangle Select Mode , position the cursor outside of the blocks and drag to draw a selection box
around the blocks. Click and drag one of the selected blocks to move them all.
Any connection lines to the blocks are automatically adjusted as you move the blocks. You do not need to
select the connection lines.
Drawing a Connection Line
Position the cursor over the input line for which you want to draw a connection. The input can be
unassigned, a constant that you want to change into a connection, or a connection that you want to
change into a different output. The cursor must be positioned exactly over the input line.
Click and drag to draw a line representing the connection.
Release the button over the output to which you want to connect. The output line is highlighted.
If there are any potential problems with this assignment, a confirmation dialog asks you to verify making
the assignment. Click Yes to make the assignment, or No to cancel it.
Adding Points and Reshaping Connection Lines
To add one point, position the cursor over the line at the location you wish to add the point. To add
multiple evenly spaced points, position the cursor anywhere over the line.
Right click on the connection line to display the shortcut menu.
Choose Add Point(s), and then choose the number of points from the submenu. If you chose to add 1
point, it is added at the location you clicked. If you choose to enter multiple points, they are evenly placed
along the line (or along the line segment if you previously added points and re-shaped the line to have
multiple segments).
To re-shape the line, click and drag a point.
You can repeat these steps as needed to continue to add points and re-shape the line.
You can only drag line segments that are vertical or horizontal, and are not the starting or ending line
segment. The shape of the cursor indicates the type of movement allowed. See Table 10.

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Table 10. Connection Line Movement Cursors

Move Segment Move Segment

Move Point Unable to Move Segment
Vertically Horizontally

Entering Assignment Values

In addition to assigning input in the diagram window by drawing connection lines, you can assign inputs
by entering the values in a dialog box. This method can be used to assign inputs that are constants or
block outputs.

Enable Dynamic Edit .

Navigate to the desired block.
Right click the block and select Configure Block. This opens the Configure Block dialog box, as shown in
Figure 40. The possible inputs are listed on the left side. Unassigned inputs are indicated by a yellow
warning symbol. Constants and available outputs are on the right side.
Select an input from the list on the left.
To connect the input to an output of a different logic block, click the From Output tab and select that
output from the drop down list.
To assign the input a constant value, click the Constant tab, input the constant value in the field, and
select the radio button of the appropriate numbering system (decimal, hexadecimal…).

Figure 40. Assigning Inputs in the Configure Block Dialog Box

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Execution View
The Execution View presents execution strategy (cycles) in matrix form. The time slots of the cycles are
listed along the top of the matrix. The logic blocks are listed down the side. The cells within the matrix
represent block execution in that cycle. See Figure 41.

Figure 41. Execution View Window

Setting up the Execution View Windows

There are three types of Execution View windows.
• Exe Flash: Allows the user to view the execution strategy configuration stored in flash.
• Exe RAM: Allows the user to view and fine tune the execution strategy configuration stored in RAM.
• Exe File: Allows the user to view and fine tune the execution strategy configuration stored in the file.
In the View Explorer, System Views, Diagram View, Click Exe Flash, Exe RAM, or Exe File to display the
desired execution view window.

Window Contents
The file, RAM, or flash execution strategy of all logic blocks is displayed in the execution view windows.

Execution Toolbar Commands

The Tools menu is different for each type of execution view window. Table 11 shows the options available
in flash, file, and RAM.
View Options: Show or hide the Modified By column.
Reference (Radio Buttons): Set file, RAM, or flash as a reference. When you display a configuration that
is not the reference, values that differ from those in the reference configuration are shown in red.
For example, the Exe File window is open and the reference is set to RAM. File is compared to RAM, and
any differences are in red.

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Table 11. Execution View Window Commands

Tools Menu Option Description Flash File RAM
Find Search for blocks. * * *
Reorder Rearrange the logic block execution order. * *
Reset Execution Times Resets the execution timer. *
Refresh Execution
Refreshes execution times. *
Times
Right Click
Set Executions per Choose between 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 16 executions per
* †
Cycle cycle.
Reorder Arrange logic block order of execution. * †
Find in Window Find the selected block in a different window. * * *
* This option is available.
† This option is available when the controller state is Resolved.

Changing Execution Cycles

Execution Order
Right click in the table to change the order in which the blocks execute.
Executions per Cycle
Right click a row to change the executions per cycle. If all cells for a block are blank, which means
nothing has been assigned, you can click a cell to add one execution per cycle or right click to assign the
executions per cycle. Click a cell that has a dash (-) and the block then executes in that time slot.

Application Configuration View

Displays all of the configuration information in table form. See Figure 42.

Figure 42. Application Config View Window

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The application configuration window is a very powerful tool. It displays all information on every logic
block in table form. The information can be easily navigated with the use of intuitive column sorting
functions, search commands, information filters, and the ability to show or hide information. The
application configuration table is commonly used to track the changes that have been made to a
configuration in a file or RAM.
To open the application configuration window click Application Config View, in the View Explorer, under
System Views.

Window Contents
The application configuration table displays a great deal of information. Every active logic block is shown
in its own row. Each row can then be expanded to show all inputs, outputs, and parameters of that logic
block, as shown in Figure 43.

Figure 43. Application Configuration Table with an Expanded Block

Application Configuration Window Commands

Table 12 describes the available menu and toolbar commands for the application configuration window.
Table 12. Application Configuration Window Menus and Commands
Menu Items Description
Edit
Find… (F3) Search for blocks.
Search Grid… (F4) Search for blocks within the application configuration table.
Find Config Differences Automatically searches for and displays configuration
differences in the table.
Find Next Config Difference (F7) Automatically searches for and displays the next configuration
difference in the table.
Clear Highlights Clears highlighted cells in the table.
View
Collapse All Collapses all sub-menus in table.
Refresh RAM Values Refreshes RAM values in table.
Refresh Selected RAM Values Refreshes the RAM values for the selected items in table.

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Menu Items Description

Clear Selected RAM Values Clears the RAM values for the selected items in table.
Toolbox
View Options Tab Contains options for changing the Reference Input
Assignment and other view related options.
Properties Options Tab Contains options for hiding or displaying columns in the
application configuration table.
RAM Refresh Tab Contains options for setting RAM refresh rate and selecting
which inputs refresh their RAM values.
Filters Tab Contains options for hiding or displaying a selection and
adding or editing filters.

Navigating in the Table

As stated above, the application configuration window displays all information on every logic block in table
form. Navigating to a specific logic block, input, or output can be confusing. BESTCOMSPro has several
powerful tools to make navigation easy.
Scroll Bars and Arrow Keys
Arrow Keys: When a cell in the table is selected, the arrow keys move the selection one unit in the
direction of the arrow that was pressed.
Page Up and Page Down Keys: When a cell in the table is selected, The Page Up key moves the
selection up one page. The Page Down key moves the selection down one page.
Home and End Keys: When a cell in the table is selected, the End key moves the selection to the last
cell of the row. The Home key moves the selection to the first cell of the row.
Scroll Bars: Standard scroll bars.
The Find Command
Use the Find command (Edit menu, Find…) to search for any logic block, input, or output in any window.
The drop down list at the top contains all of the searchable windows, the list at the bottom contains all of
the searchable logic blocks, and specific names can be entered into the blank field in the middle.
Search Grid
Use Search Grid (Edit menu, Search Grid) to search for blocks within the application configuration table.
Input the specific name of the item in the field at the top. Choose current column only or entire grid and
the search order.
Find Configuration Differences
Use the Find Configuration Differences command (Edit menu, Find Config Differences) to mark the
differences in a configuration versus the reference configuration. For example, changes were made to a
configuration stored in the file and needs to be compared to the original configuration stored in RAM.
Under the View Options tab, select RAM Input Assignment (this sets it as the reference configuration) and
then use the Find Config Differences command to highlight all of the changes that were made.
Find Next Configuration Difference: Use the Find Next Config Difference command (Edit menu, Find
Next Config Difference) to view the configuration differences one at a time starting from the selected cell.
Pan to Connection
Use Pan to Connection to automatically display the cell containing the input or output connected to the
current connection. Right click anywhere in the row of a block output that is a connection or the output
value in the File Input, Flash Input, or RAM Input cell of a block input row and select Pan to Connection.

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Find in Window
Use Find in Window to display the cell of the same selected logic block, input, or output from a different
window. For example, if you’re viewing a logic block in the Dgm Flash window and want to view the
corresponding cell in the application configuration window. Right click on a logic block, input, output or
connection line and point to Find in Window a sub-menu appears with a list of window options. Select App
Configuration.

Assigning Blocks in the Table

In addition to assigning inputs in the diagram window by drawing connection lines, you can assign inputs
by entering the values in a dialog box from within the application configuration window. This method can
be used to assign inputs that are constants or connections.
Navigate to the cell of the desired input.
Right click the input cell and select File Assignment or RAM Assignment. This opens the Assign Input
dialog box. Constants and available outputs are on the right side.
To connect the input to an output of a different logic block, click the From Output tab and select that
output from the drop down list.
To assign the input a constant value, click the Constant tab, input the constant value in the field, and
select the radio button of the appropriate numbering system (decimal, hexadecimal…).

Mainline Execution View (BCM only)

Displays a table showing whether or not each mainline block is going to execute. This view is only
available by connecting to a BCM or opening the configuration file of a BCM. See Figure 44.

Figure 44. Mainline Execution View Window

Memory View
Displays the contents of all memory locations. See Figure 45.

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Figure 45. Memory View Window

Monitor View
This screen displays the contents of a set of pre-defined user-selected memory locations. See Figure 46.

Figure 46. Monitor View Window

Real-Time Monitoring
Proper voltage regulator performance is critical to power system stabilizer performance. Step response
measurements of the voltage regulator should be performed to confirm the AVR gain and other critical
parameters. A transfer function measurement between terminal voltage reference and terminal voltage
should be performed with the machine operating at very low load. This test provides an indirect
measurement of the PSS phase requirement. As long as the machine is operating at very low load, the
terminal voltage modulation does not produce significant speed and power changes.
The BESTCOMSPro Real-Time Monitoring (RTM) Analysis screen can be used to perform and monitor
on-line AVR and PSS testing. It is found in View Explorer, System Views. Up to six plots of user-selected

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data can be generated and the logged data can be stored in a file for later examination. In order to start
plotting data, the following two conditions must be met. The RTM logic block must be in the logic
configuration (it is by default) and its inputs assigned to block outputs (not constants). The controller run
state must be set to Executing Blocks. RTM Analysis screen controls and indications are illustrated in
Figure 47.

Figure 47. Real Time Monitoring Window

With the RTM Analysis screen controls, you can:
• Select the parameters to be graphed
• Adjust the resolution of the graph x axis and graph y axis
• Start and stop plot captures
• Export graph data as comma separated value (.CSV) or COMTRADE file formats.
• Print a captured graph

Graph Parameters
Logic block inputs/outputs and system parameters can be displayed in the graph areas. These graph
parameters are sorted into two separate lists. The active list type can be toggled by clicking the Change

View/Data Type button ( or ). This button visually changes depending on which list type is

active. Clicking the switches to the logic block data type mode, and clicking the switches to
the system parameters data type mode.

Logic Block Parameters

The logic block input/output selection window (Figure 48) is displayed by clicking on the button at
the top of the graph when logic block data type mode. Select the logic block from the drop down list at the
top of the window and then the available inputs and outputs are displayed in the lower list area. Select the
desired input or output from the lower list and click OK.

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Figure 48. Logic Block Input / Output Selection

System Parameters
When in system parameters data type mode, the following system parameters can be selected for display
in the graph areas through the drop down list at the top of the graph.
• AVR Control Signal • PF Regulator Control Signal
• AVR Error Signal • PSS Filtered Mechanical Power
• Cross Current Compensation • PSS Final Output
• Droop Compensation • PSS Integral Mechanical Power
• Exciter Field Current • PSS Lead-Lag #1
• Exciter Field Voltage • PSS Lead-Lag #2
• Firing Command • PSS Lead-Lag #3
• GCL Controller Output • PSS Lead-Lag #4
• Generator Apparent Power • PSS Post-Limit Output
• Generator Frequency (Hz) • PSS Power HP #1
• Generator Line Current • PSS Ramp Tracked Mechanical Power
• Generator Power Factor • PSS Speed
• Generator Reactive Power • PSS Speed HP #1
• Generator Real Power • PSS Synthesized Speed
• Generator Terminal Voltage • PSS Torsional Filter #1
• HXL Controller Output • PSS Torsional Filter #2
• INST Controller Output • PSS Washed Out Power
• Line Drop Compensation • PSS Washed Out Speed
• Main Field Current • Regulator PID Derivative State
• Main Field Voltage • Regulator PID Error
• Manual Control Signal • Regulator PID Integrator State
• Manual Error Signal • Regulator PID Output
• MEL Controller Output • Test Signal
• MFEL Controller Output • UEL Controller Output
• OEL Controller 00 Output • UVL Controller Output
• OEL Controller 01 Output • VAR Error Signal
• OVL Controller Output • VAR Regulator Control Signal
• PF Error Signal • VARL Controller Output

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RTM Options
To display the options menu click the Options button and select Display Options from the drop down list.
Both tabs of the options menu are displayed in Figure 49.
• Stack / Tile: These settings arrange the graph windows in stacks, tiles, or a mix of the two.
• Number of graphs: The number of graphs to be displayed is entered here with a maximum of
six.
• Graph Height: The height, in pixels, of all displayed graphs is entered here.
• Black Backgrounds: This option changes the background of all displayed graphs to black.
• Sync Graph Scrolling: When the checkbox is checked, the graphs are all set to the same
position on the X-axis and they scroll simultaneously when one of the graphs is scrolled.
• Set X axis Range: This function sets the graphs to display data within a window of time,
specified by the user. The user-specified values are in seconds. The left field is the starting time
and the right field is the ending time, so the left field value cannot be greater than the right field
value.

Figure 49. RTM Options Window

Right-Click Options
Table 13 describes the list of options that appears upon right-clicking in the graph area.
Table 13. RTM Graph, Right-Click Options
Command Description
Copy Copy the image of the graph to the clipboard
Save As… Save the image of the graph as a .emf, .png, .gif, .jpg, .tif, .bmp
Page Setup… Set up the printing options
Print… Print the graph
UnZoom Reset the zoom
Undo All Reset the zoom and pan position to the original state
Export Data Export the graph data as a .txt file
Cursors Options for Goto Cursor 1 & 2 and Move Cursor 1 & 2 into View
Lines Display Data Points, Show Point Values, Interpolated, Smooth, Step

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Command Description
Format Toggle Background Color, Show Grid Lines, X Axis Autofit
Set X Scale Scaling Options, Manual or Automatic, Minimum, Maximum
Set Y Scale Scaling Options, Manual or Automatic, Minimum, Maximum
Rolling the mouse wheel up or down when the cursor is hovering over the graph area causes the view to
zoom in or out.

Metering
BESTCOMS™Pro metering screens are organized according to the functions and parameters monitored.
Many metering screens contain a Help button which can be clicked to obtain additional information about
the metered parameters.

Control Panel
The Control Panel window, Figure 50, displays the status of exciter breakers, auto/manual mode,
setpoints, pre-positions, VAR mode, PF mode, local/remote control, alarm, PSS, voltage matching,
automatic synchronizer, simulation, and null balance. Control buttons are provided for auto, manual, VAR,
and PF modes. These controls allow the user to enable modes, raise and lower setpoints, and apply pre-
position setpoints. Status indicators are gray when FALSE and green when TRUE.

Figure 50. Control Panel Window

Sync Panel
The purpose of the sync panel, Figure 51, is to display the synchronization status of the generator and
the bus. Slip Frequency (Hertz), Slip Angle, and Voltage Difference are metered. Right-clicking in the
graph area displays options for saving, printing, and zoom controls.

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Figure 51. Sync Panel Window with Settings Panel Open

Generator
The Generator window displays the voltage, current, MW, MVAR, MVA, power factor, and frequency. See
Figure 52.

Figure 52. Generator Metering Window

Main Field
The Main Field window displays voltage, current, temperature, resistance, minimum field-to-ground
resistance, and maximum field-to-ground resistance. See Figure 53.

Figure 53. Main Field Metering Window

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Exciter Field
The Exciter Field window displays voltage, current, temperature, resistance, minimum field-to-ground
resistance, and maximum field-to-ground resistance.

Figure 54. Exciter Field Metering Window

Adjuster
The Adjuster window displays the reference, position, and error of ac, manual, VAR, and PF.
Automatic/Manual Balance and Tracker Error are also displayed. See Figure 55.

Figure 55. Adjuster Metering Window

GSU Transformer
The GSU Transformer window displays voltage, current, MW, MVAR, MVA, power factor, and frequency.
See Figure 56.

Figure 56. GSU Transformer Metering Window

Limiter
The Limiter window displays the status of all protective limiting. See Figure 57.

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Figure 57. Limiter Metering Window

PPT
The PPT window displays voltage, primary current, secondary current, average temperature, and phase
temperature. See Figure 58.

Figure 58. PPT Metering Window

Real Time Clock

Time and date settings can be made on the Real Time Clock screen by clicking the Edit button on the
Real Time Clock screen. The Real Time Clock is shown in Figure 59.

Figure 59. Real Time Clock

Other
The Other window displays PT magnitude, PID input, fire command, phase PT difference, phase CT
difference, and User-defined metering signals 1, 2, and 3. See Figure 60.

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Figure 60. Other Window

System Status
The System Status window displays the status of the system breakers, operating modes, PSS, voltage
matching, synchronizer, var controller, PF controller, simulation, and USB. See Figure 61.

Figure 61. System Status Window

Alarms (Status)
The Alarms window, found under the Status category, displays the alarm status of the 41A close/open
failure, field flash failure, phase unbalance, PSS output, main/exciter field to ground, PPT over temp
(high/low), bridge, user-defined alarms, and loss of voltage sensing, regulator/metering PT, AC/DC power
supply, and bridge cooling. See Figure 62.

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Figure 62. Alarms Window (Status)

Limiters
The Limiters window displays the limiter status of generator/exciter OEL, INST, MFEL, OVL, UVL, HXL,
VRL, MEL, UEL, GCL, and recalibration inputs. See Figure 63.

Figure 63. Limiters Window

System Trip
The System Trip window displays the trip status of generator/exciter OEL, INST, MFEL, OVL, UVL, HXL,
VRL, MEL, UEL, GCL, field current transducer, de-excitation, crowbar, PPT over temp, emergency stop,
and user-defined trips. See Figure 64.

Figure 64. System Trip Window

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Transfer
The Transfer window displays the transfer status of generator/exciter OEL, INST, MFEL, OVL, UVL, HXL,
VRL, MEL, UEL, GCL, and LOS to redundant or manual. Transfer to redundant disabled, HMI transfer
disabled, and channel not ready are also displayed. See Figure 65.

Figure 65. Transfer Window

Status Inputs
The Inputs window displays the status of inputs C600 to C623, F1 -, and DIGIN1 to 4. See Figure 66.

Figure 66. Status Inputs Window

Status Outputs
The Outputs window displays the output status of C700 to C715, and DIGOUT 1 to 4. See Figure 67.

Figure 67. Status Outputs Window

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Bridge Status
An overview of power bridge conditions and activity is available on the Bridge Status screen (Figure 68).

Figure 68. Brige Status Metering Screen

In-depth information about a specific bridge is provided on the corresponding screens labeled Bridge 0
through Bridge 15. The Bridge 0 screen is shown in Figure 69.

Figure 69. Detailed Bridge Status Screen

Alarms (Metering)
The Alarms window, found under the Metering category, displays the name, time, status, and date of all
recent alarms. See Figure 70.

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Figure 70. Alarms Window (Metering)

Commissioning
Frequency Response
Frequency response testing functions are available under View Explorer, Commissioning, Analysis,
Frequency Response. Frequency Response screen functions are illustrated in Figure 71 and described in
the following paragraphs.

Figure 71. Frequency Response Window

Read-only frequency response fields (right side of window) indicate the magnitude response, phase
response, and test signal frequency. The magnitude response and phase response corresponds to the
test signal previously applied. The test frequency value reflects the frequency of the test signal currently
being applied.

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Caution
Exercise caution when performing frequency response testing on a
generator connected to the grid. Frequencies that are close to the
resonant frequency of the machine or neighboring machines are to be
avoided. Frequencies above 3 Hz may correspond to the lowest shaft
torsional frequencies of a genset. A torsional profile for the machine
should be obtained from the manufacturer and consulted before
conducting any frequency response tests.

Transfer Function
The point in the DECS-2100 logic circuitry where a signal is injected for analysis of magnitude and phase
responses is selectable. Signal points are PSS Comp Frequency, PSS Electric Power, and logic block
inputs/outputs. These signal points are stored in two separate lists. The active list can be toggled by

clicking the Change View/Data Type button ( or ).

The transfer function input and output are selectable from the logic block outputs.
Range
The low frequency of the range is entered into Freq 1, the high frequency of the range in entered into
Freq 2, and the number of steps in between is entered in to Steps.
Magnitude
This is the magnitude of the test signal as a per unit value.
Bode Plotting
Using the File menu a Bode plot (Figure 72) can be saved in, SSE, TXT, or CSV formats. The View menu
contains options for customizing the appearance of data points and grid lines, and cursor behavior. An
image of the magnitude plot or phase plot can be saved in EMF, PNG, GIF, JPG, TIF, or BMP formats by
right-clicking in the graph area and selecting Save Image As. Other options available in the right-click
menu are page setup, printing and scale settings.

Figure 72. Bode Plot Window

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Options
The Options menu allows selection of Scan High to Low Frequency, Magnitude Threshold, Phase
Threshold, and Repetition Count. See Figure 73.

Figure 73. Frequency Response Options Window

Time Response
Tests should be performed at various load levels to confirm that the input signals are calculated or
measured correctly. Since the PSS function uses compensated terminal frequency in place of speed, the
derived mechanical power signal should be examined carefully to ensure that it does not contain any
components at the electromechanical oscillation frequencies. If such components are present, it indicates
that the frequency compensation is less than ideal, or that the machine inertia value is incorrect.
PSS test signal configuration settings are provided on the Time Response screen shown in Figure 74.
The Time Response window is found under View Explorer, Commissioning, Analysis.
Signal Input
Signal input selections determine the point in the PSS circuitry where the test signal is applied. Test
points include, PSS Comp Frequency, PSS Electric Power and logic block inputs and outputs.

Figure 74. Time Response Window

Auto Tuning
During commissioning, excitation system parameters are not known. These unknown variables
traditionally cause the commissioning process to consume a large amount of time and fuel. With the
development of auto tuning the excitation system parameters are automatically identified and the PID
gains are calculated using well-developed algorithms. Automatically tuning the PID controller greatly
reduces commissioning time and cost. The auto tuning function, Figure 75, is accessed by clicking the
Auto Tune option under View Explorer, Commissioning. This window is enabled when the AUTOTUNE
logic block is added to the logic configuration. For more information on using the auto tune feature see
Programmable Logic.

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Figure 75. Auto Tune Window

Simulation
The simulation windows provide an easy way to control all aspects of a simulated gen-set. This window,
Figure 76, is enabled when the SIMCON logic block is added to the configuration. It displays overall
status and controls of the active simulation. All commands contained in the individual simulation windows
can be accessed from this window. For example, if the AC Exciter button is clicked, the AC Exciter
window is displayed allowing easy data entry.

Figure 76. Simulation Window

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Generator Parameters
This window is enabled when the GENSIM logic block is added to the configuration. See Figure 77.

Figure 77. General Parameters Window

AC Exciter
This window (Figure 78) is enabled when the AC_EXCITER logic block is added to the configuration. See

Figure 78. AC Exciter Window

DC Exciter
This window is enabled when the DC_EXCITER logic block is added to the configuration. See Figure 79.

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Figure 79. DC Exciter Window

Diesel Engine
This window is enabled when the DIESEL_ENG logic block is added to the configuration.
See Figure 80.

Figure 80. Diesel Engine Window

Gas Turbine
This window is enabled when the GAS_TURB logic block is added to the configuration.
The following figures show the Gas Turbine window, see Figure 81 for the PID Fuel Speed tab, and
Figure 82 for the Turbine Temp Radiation tab.

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Figure 81. Gas Turbine Window, PID Fuel Speed Tab

Figure 82. Gas Turbine Window, Turbine Temp Radiation Tab

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Hydro Turbine
This window (Figure 83)is enabled when the HYDRO_TURB logic block is added to the configuration.

Figure 83. Hydro Turbine Window

Steam Turbine
This window (Figure 84)is enabled when the STEAM_TURB logic block is added to the configuration.

Figure 84. Steam Turbine

Static Load
This window (Figure 85) is enabled when the GENSIM logic block is added to the configuration.

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Figure 85. Static Load Window

Dynamic Load
This window (Figure 86)is enabled when the GENSIM logic block is added to the configuration.

Figure 86. Dynamic Load Window

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System Parameters
This window (Figure 87) is enabled when the SIMCON logic block is added to the configuration.

Figure 87. System Parameters Window

Step-up Transformer Parameters
This window (Figure 88)is enabled when the SIMCON logic block is added to the configuration.

Figure 88. Step-up Transformer Parameters Window

Reports
Events & Data Loggers
Displays the active event recorders and data loggers. See Figure 89.

Figure 89. Events & Data Loggers Window

Table States
Displays the status of RAM and flash tables. See Figure 90.

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Figure 90. Table States Window

Validation
This window contains a function that lists all logic blocks, and their inputs and outputs, the current version
of firmware is compatible with. This report can be exported to a text (.txt) file and saved to disk. See
Figure 91.

Figure 91. Validation Window

Verify/Resolve
This window contains a function that checks the logic configuration for errors and creates a report. This
report can be exported to a text (.txt) file and saved to disk. See Figure 92.

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Figure 92. Verify/Resolve Window

Configuration Differences
This window displays the differences in the file, RAM, and flash configurations. This report can be
exported to a text (.txt) file and saved to disk. See Figure 93.

Figure 93. Configuration Differences Window

Cross Reference Report

This screen (Figure 94)displays a report listing all of the input and output connections of the active logic
blocks.

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Figure 94. Cross Reference Report Window

Alarm History
Displays a history of all alarms. The Tools menu provides options to export, refresh, clear history, and
show all devices. See Figure 95.

Figure 95. Alarm History Window

Settings Explorer
The Settings Explorer is a convenient tool within BESTCOMSPro used to navigate through the various
settings screens. After you connect to a control module, you can use the Settings Explorer to display one
or more of the following windows in the working area of the main window. Different window options
appear depending on the type of connected control module. Each tab displayed to the right upon clicking
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the Settings Explorer options can be undocked and made into a free floating window. The Settings

Explorer panel can be hidden via the View drop down button on the toolbar. The ‘x’ button hides
the Settings Explorer and the thumbtack icon allows it to be docked. A docked screen is viewed by
hovering the mouse pointer over the docked screen.

Settings Explorer Windows

The window options that are available to an excitation control module (ECM-2) differ from those available
to a bridge control module (BCM). Table 14 lists the windows available to the specific control modules.
Table 14. Control Module Settings Explorer Window Availability
Window ECM-2 BCM
General Settings
Controller Settings
Modbus Settings ●
Clock Settings ● ●
COMPort Settings ● ●
Ethernet Settings ●
Device Security Settings
Password Settings ● ●
Logon Password ●
Monitor View Setup ● ●
Data Recording Setup ●
Block Settings (The available logic blocks differ between the
ECM-2 and the BCM, see Basler Electric Instruction Manual ● ●
9411300991.)
PSS (All) ●
Alarms Configuration ● ●

Controller Settings
Modbus Settings
View or change Modbus connection settings. (ECM-2 only) See Figure 96.

Figure 96. Modbus Settings Window

Clock Settings
View and change controller time zone, daylight savings time, and time priority. See Figure 97.

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Figure 97. Clock Settings

COM Port Settings

View and change COM port baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, and mode. See Figure 98.

Figure 98. COMPort Settings Window

Ethernet Settings
View and change Ethernet connection settings. (ECM-2 only) See Figure 99.

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Figure 99. Ethernet Settings Window

Device Security Settings

Password Settings
Change the passwords for the different security levels. See Figure 100.

Figure 100. Password Settings Window

Logon Password
Set a device password. See Figure 101.

Figure 101. Logon Password Window

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Monitor View Setup

This screen is used to add or edit memory location monitors. See Figure 102. For information on setting
up monitor views see Programmable Logic in this chapter.

Figure 102. Monitor View Setup

Data Recording Setup

Data recording setup is divided between data logging functions (Figure 103) and event recorder blocks
(Figure 104).

Figure 103. Data Recording Setup, Data Logger

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Figure 104. Data Recording Setup, Event Recorder

Block Settings
View and change user description, execution cycles, and assignments of a specific active logic block in
File and RAM. Block settings for flash are view only. In Figure 105, the settings for logic block OR#24 are
shown.

Figure 105. Block Settings Window

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PSS
Control
Enable/disable control and monitor the PSS supervisory functions in File, RAM, and Flash. See Figure
106.

Figure 106. PSS, Control Window

Dual Paths
Control the PSS primary and secondary frequency, power washout, low pass, ramp tracking, and
intermediate lag in File, RAM, and Flash. See Figure 107.

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Figure 107. PSS, Dual Paths Window

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Main Filters
Control the PSS primary and secondary torsional and lead lag filters in File, RAM, and Flash.
See Figure 108.

Figure 108. PSS, Main Filters Window

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Limiters
Control the PSS primary and secondary output limiting, ramp limit, low pass, and stabilizer gain in File,
RAM, and Flash. See Figure 109.

Figure 109. PSS, Limiters Window

Alarms Configuration
Enable or disable an alarm’s ability to create an alarm notification. The alarm still appears in the alarms
window. See Figure 110.

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Figure 110. Alarms Configuration Window

Menu and Toolbar Commands

Table 15 describes all of the main menu and toolbar commands found in BESTCOMSPro.
Table 15. Menu and Toolbar Commands
Min. Security
Menu Item Description
Level Required
File
Connect… Opens the connections window. 1
Bridge Connect... Opens the Bridge Connect window. Choose from a list 1
of bridges to connect to the controller.
Open Configuration… Opens a saved configuration file. 1
Close Closes the active configuration file. 1
Save Saves the active configuration file. 2
Save As... Saves the active configuration file with a different 2
name.
Data Logger Open Data Logger File or Import Data from Text. 1
Event Recorder Open Event Recorder File or Import Event from Text. 1
SSE Plot Open SSE Plot from File or Import SSE Plot from 1
Text.
Page Setup Opens printer settings window. 1
Print Preview Preview a configuration file printout. 1
Print... Send a configuration file to a printer. 1
Preferences Opens the preferences window. 1
Recent Files View Recently Opened Files or Clear recent Files list. 1

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Min. Security
Menu Item Description
Level Required
Exit Exit BESTCOMSPro 1
Edit
Export Config Save configuration differences in a text file. 1
Differences...
View
Alarms Opens the alarms window. View all recent alarms. 1
Controller
Memory I/O… Copy to File or Insert from File. 5
Print Controller Choose any current RAM, flash, or file data to print. 1
Purchase Blocks Choose logic blocks to be purchased from Basler 2
Electric.
Set State… Opens the Set Run State window. Choose the desired 2
state of the controller.
Save Current State... Saves the current state of the controller to be the 2
default state of the controller on power-up.
Configurations
Add Block… Opens the Add Block window. Choose from a list of 2
logic blocks to add.
Remove Block… Opens a Remove Block window. Choose from a list of 2
logic blocks to remove.
Configure Blocks… Opens the Configure Blocks window. Choose from a 2
list of logic blocks to configure.
Copy File to RAM… Copy data in a configuration file to RAM. 2
Copy RAM to File… Copy configuration data in RAM to a configuration file. 2
Copy RAM to Flash… Copy configuration data in RAM to flash memory. 2
Copy Flash to RAM… Copy configuration data in flash memory to RAM. 1
Copy Flash to File… Copy configuration data in flash memory to a 2
configuration file.
Input Assignments Save to File, Import into Existing Config, Import into 1
New Config.
Set Initials Change user’s initials without restarting 1
BESTCOMSPro.
User Descriptions Export to File, Import form File. 1
User Definitions Add / Edit…, Export to File, Import to File. 1
Associate File... Replace the current file configuration with a loaded file 2
configuration.
Tools
Check for Updates Check for the latest BESTCOMSPro updates via the 1
internet.
Select Language Opens the Select Language window. 1
Set Security Level Change the current security level. Password required. 1
Firmware Upload Upload a firmware file to the ECM-2. 4

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Min. Security
Menu Item Description
Level Required
Compact RAM Compacts the RAM Diagram. 2
Diagram
Window
Cascade All Cascade all configuration file windows. 1
Tile Tile configuration file windows horizontally or 1
vertically.
Maximize All Maximize all configuration file windows. 1
Close All Close all configuration file windows. 1
Help
BESTCOMSPro Help Opens the BESTCOMSPro Help index. 1
About BESTCOMSPro Displays General, Detailed Build, and System 1
Information.
Activate Enter or request an activation key. 1
BESTCOMSPro
Remove Activation Removes all activation keys for this product. 1
Keys
Block Help All logic block summaries and drawings. 1
Toolbar Commands
Show or hide the view and settings explorers. Open or 1
View Drop save workspaces.
down List
Opens the connections window. 1
Connect
Opens a saved configuration file. 1
Open
Closes the active configuration file and/or connection. 1
Close
Saves the active configuration file. 1
Save
Opens the preferences window. 1
Preferences
Opens the Add Block window. Choose from a list of 1
Add Block logic blocks to add.
Opens the Remove Block window. Choose from a list 1
Remove Block of logic blocks to remove.
Opens the Set Run State window. Choose the desired 1
Set State state of the controller.
Reloads the active configuration. 1
Reload the
configuration
Opens the Alarms window. Recent alarms are listed. 1
Alarms
Opens the Configuration Differences window. 1
Compare
Configurations

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Security Levels
BESTCOMSPro security levels apply to the RAM configuration. You can edit any information in the
configuration file regardless of your security level. Your security level is checked when you download from
the configuration file to RAM, or when you directly edit RAM.
The security levels are described below in Table 16.
Table 16. Security Level Definitions

Security Levels Definition

View Only Allows viewing of all information in RAM but no ability to save
changes. No password is needed and is not shown.

Tune Configuration Allows changing of input assignments.

Change Configuration Allows adding and removing blocks, purchasing blocks, and
changing the type of input.

COE (Custom Order

Enables additional functions for performing system upgrades.
Engineer)

Administrator Allows access to individual memory locations.

The View Only level does not require a password. All other security levels are password protected.
A default security level is provided when BESTCOMSPro is initially activated. If you know the associated
password, you can change your security level after you connect to a controller using the Set Security
Level command. Users at a higher level can change the password for their security level or lower. If you
forget your password, call Basler Electric to get a temporary activation key with a higher security level
which can be used to reset the passwords.

Setting Security Level Passwords

Use the Password Settings window to change the password of one or more security levels for any or all
connected controllers. You can change the password of your current security level or a lower security
level.
Note: Be careful when changing passwords because the old password cannot be recovered after you set
a new one. Also, passwords are not user-specific. The same password applies to all users of the security
level.
To set security passwords:
• In the Settings Explorer, choose General Settings, Device Security Settings, Password Settings.
• Your current security level is selected in the list.
• Select a security level to change its password.
• Type the new password for the selected security level in the Password and Confirm fields.
• Click Set Password. A confirmation dialog tells you the password is saved.
• To change the password for another level, repeat Steps 2-6.

Changing Security Levels

Use the Set Security Level command to change your current security level. You must enter the
associated password to change to a security level that is higher than your current level.
• Choose Set Security Level from the Tools menu.
• Select a security level and, if the level is higher than your current level, enter the associated
password.
• Click OK and BESTCOMSPro changes your security level.

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Logic Overview
BESTCOMSPro Programmable Logic is a programming method used for managing the input, output,
control, monitoring, and reporting capabilities of Basler Electric's DECS-2100 System. The DECS-2100
has multiple, self-contained logic blocks that have all of the inputs and outputs of its discrete component
counterpart. Each independent logic block interacts with control inputs and hardware outputs based on
logic variables defined in BESTCOMSPro. Configurations entered and saved in the DECS-2100 system's
nonvolatile memory integrate (electronically wire) the selected or enabled control blocks with control
inputs and hardware outputs. A group of connected functions, defining the logic of the DECS-2100, is
called a logic configuration. Using BESTCOMSPro programmable logic is analogous to physically
attaching wire between discrete DECS-2100 terminals. For a detailed explanation of BESTCOMSPro
logic see Programmable Logic in this chapter.

Logic Block
A logic block is a block of code that represents a component or function in a circuit. Logic blocks can be
simple logic gates, latches, and timers or complex function modules. For a full list of available logic blocks
for the DECS-2100 with function summaries and diagrams, see Basler Electric Instruction Manual
9411300991.

Execution Strategy
The execution strategy, Figure 111, defines when a block executes in relation to all other blocks, the time
slots in which the execution takes place, and the executions per cycle. Each cycle consists of 16
divisions. A logic block can execute 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 times per cycle.

Figure 111. Execution Strategy Window

Logic Configuration
A configuration file stores the programmable logic block information and all controller settings. It is used
to define new configurations before putting them into operation. When you are ready to put the
configuration into operation, download from the configuration file to the RAM of the controller. If the
controller is not in the resolved state when you try to download, BESTCOMSPro asks if you want to set
the state to resolved. Your security level is also checked at the time of download. Any level user can edit
the configuration file, but only users with the appropriate security level can download the information to
RAM.
RAM - This is the configuration information that is to be executed. After you download from the
configuration file, the controller state is resolved. Set the state to execute blocks to begin executing the
new RAM values. Then monitor and fine tune the configuration as needed.
Flash memory - Flash memory is the permanent memory of the controller. Unlike RAM, Flash memory is
not lost if the power goes off. Therefore, you save from RAM to Flash in order to retain information in the
event of a power outage or re-cycle. At power-up, the Flash configuration replaces the RAM
configuration. You cannot directly edit any information in Flash memory.

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To Save Configurations Files

• Click File, Save As…
• Name the file, and click Save.
To Open Configuration Files
• Click File, Open Configuration.
• Select the file to be opened, and click Open.
To copy a configuration to File, RAM, or Flash
Click Configurations, and click the appropriate command from the pull down menu.
See Figure 112.

Figure 112. Copy Configuration to File, RAM, or Flash

Data Loggers and Event Recorders

This is an overview of data loggers and event recorders. For information on setting up data loggers and
event recorders, see Programmable Logic.

Data Logger
A data logger is a special function block that takes continuous samples of data. The inputs to this block
accept the outputs from other blocks that are to be monitored. The time interval, at which the data logger
samples the data, is user-defined. Once a data logger is set up and put into execution, it is always
recording data, up to 12 channels of selected parameters. You choose when to view the data. The data
logger graph is shown in Figure 113.

Event Recorder
An event recorder is a special function block that records the output values related to an event. The
trigger that sets off the event and the signals to be recorded are user-defined. When the event recorder is
enabled, it starts monitoring for an occurrence of the trigger. When the trigger occurs, the event recorder
records the event and automatically displays the attentions indicator in BESTCOMSPro to allow you to
upload and view the data.
The two types of triggers are logic and float. For the logic type, you define whether a true or false value
for a specific output triggers the event. For the float type, the event is triggered if the value of a specific
output falls outside a minimum and maximum value that you define. The event recorder saves both pre-
trigger and post-trigger data. You specify a time interval for sampling the data and how many samples
you want taken at each interval for pre-trigger and total samples. The sampling rate, total number of
samples per channel, number of total samples that are pre-trigger, and number of channels to record (up
to 8) are all user-defined for the four available blocks.

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Figure 113. Data Logger Graph

Alarms
The controller activates an alarm to alert you to a condition that requires your attention.

Alarm Notifications
When an alarm condition occurs an Active Alarms notification appears at the upper right corner of the
configuration window as shown in Figure 114. Click the Active Alarms button to view the alarms window.

Figure 114. Alarm Notification

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Viewing Alarms

Click the Alarms command from the View menu or the button on the toolbar.
The alarms window appears, showing all recent alarms.

Alarms Configuration Window

Alarm notifications may need to be enabled or disabled depending on the current application. A complete
list of the alarms can be found in the Settings explorer, Alarms Configurations window. Each entry has a
check box which toggles the enabled or disabled state of the alarm notification. When a disabled alarm
notification is triggered it still appears in the alarms window, but there is no notification.

Event and Alarm History Recorder (Sequence of Events)

In View Explorer, Reports, Click Alarm History. A window containing the alarm history and sequence of
events is displayed (Figure 115). The Alarm History Tools menu contains options for refreshing or
exporting data. Alarms are only added to the application database when the Save Alarm History
checkbox is checked in the General tab of the Preferences dialog.

Figure 115. Alarm History Window

BESTspace™
BESTspace™ customizable workspaces can be set to fit your specific application needs. Any number of
different workspaces can be saved including a default workspace that will load when BESTCOMS™Pro is
started. (The workspace is the current position, size, and state of all windows that are currently open.)
You can save and load workspaces to quickly and easily switch between preferred window layouts and
settings. This is especially useful for multiple users of the same PC or for quickly switching between
monitoring and configuration tuning tasks. A custom workspace can also be saved as the default
workspace that is loaded when a connection is made to the associated controller or its configuration file is
loaded.
BESTspace™ controls are accessed through the View button on the lower toolbar.

BESTCOMS™Pro Updates
Over time, enhancements may be added to improve BESTCOMS™Pro functionality. Checking for
software updates can be done through BESTCOMS™Pro on a PC with an internet connection. Checks
for updates can be made manually or automatically.

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A manual check for updates can be made through the toolbar by selecting Help, Check for Updates.
Automatic checks for updates can be enabled and configured through the toolbar by selecting, Help,
Check for Update Settings. This action accesses the Check for Updates User Settings screen (Figure
116) which provides selection of enabling automatic updates, the frequency of checking for updates, and
whether the update inquiries are anonymous.

Figure 116. Help Menu: Check for Update Settings

Firmware Upgrades

Caution
When ECM-2 firmware is updated, default settings are loaded into the
ECM-2, reports and events are cleared, and the ECM-2 reboots.
BESTCOMSPro can be used to download configuration settings and
save the settings in a file so that they can be restored after updating
firmware.

The firmware upgrade option is available only with security level 4 or higher. If you have obtained a
package file containing an updated firmware file for your device, you can upload it by selecting Firmware
Upgrade from the Tools pull-down menu on the main screen in BESTCOMSPro. The Basler Electric
Device Package Uploader screen appears. See Figure 117.

Figure 117. Basler Electric Device Package Uploader

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Use the Open button to browse for the device file that you obtained from Basler Electric. Place a
checkmark next to the file you want to upload. Click the Upload button. The ECM-2 reboots automatically
after the firmware upload is complete.

Plug-Ins for BESTCOMS™Pro

When you connect to a control module, or load a configuration file, the appropriate plug-in loads
automatically. The following plug-ins are currently available.
• ECS2100
• DECS-2100

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Commissioning
This publication serves as a guide for placing a DECS-2100 excitation system into service for the first
time. In this publication, references are made to a variety of systems (static, brushless, rotating exciter)
with a variety of options. These references are generic and some referenced options may not apply to a
particular system. It is essential that the site-specific schematics are obtained and consulted before
proceeding with any commissioning procedures.

Safety

Warning!

Components within the excitation system carry lethal levels of voltage.

Personal injury or death may result if contact is made with these
components. Consulting the system drawings will reveal these
hazardous areas/components. All connections should be assumed to
be live and dangerous until proven otherwise.

When working with the excitation system, every precaution must be taken to ensure that all high voltages
are isolated and avoided by test personnel. High voltages are present within the equipment enclosures;
the magnitude of these voltages depends upon the ratings of the particular system. Opening the sources
(such as disconnecting the field circuit breaker) does not completely eliminate the possibility of high
voltages being present. As long as the machine is physically connected to the system, there is a
possibility that a safety hazard exists. In addition to the presence of machine terminal voltage at the
excitation transformer, there may be other sources of power entering the enclosure. These power sources
include the dc control power and ac station power used to supply various devices. Field voltage will be
present at the ground detector power source. The generator field ground detector must be disconnected
when servicing the excitation system. Because the ground detector input supply is usually a separate 120
Vac, both the ac power bus and dc field bus may be back fed from this device with 120 Vdc.

Test Equipment

Warning!

Most oscilloscopes have a common connection for all inputs (the

oscilloscope case). When making multiple connections to an
oscilloscope, ensure that there is no short circuit on the common
connection. Isolation transformers may be required. Note that when
the oscilloscope case is isolated from ground, potential may be
present on the case. Touching the oscilloscope case may result in
electrical shock.

The following equipment is required for testing of the excitation equipment as part of the commissioning
process.
• Three-phase power source with the proper voltage, frequency, and capacity to energize the
power bridge
• Suitable load for the power bridge (an inductive load is highly recommended)
• Two-channel oscilloscope with isolated inputs or isolation amplifier
• Oscilloscope current probe for measurement of SCR gate current
• Oscilloscope differential voltage probe (if inputs are not isolated)
• Multimeter, 20 kΩ/V or better
• Phase angle meter (oscilloscope may be substituted)
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• Power sources for transducer calibration:

o 120 Vac, three-phase, 1 Aac, <0.1% accuracy
o 20 Vac, three-phase, 7.5 Aac, <0.1% accuracy
o 200 mVdc, <0.1% accuracy
o 0–500 Vdc, 1 Adc, <0.1%
• 200 Ω, 1 W potentiometer
• 1 MΩ, 2W potentiometer
• 1 kΩ, ¼ W resistor

Optional Equipment
• Phase sequence meter
• Chart recorder, two element with voltage balancing unit

Procedures Outline
Testing procedures are performed with the machine at rest and running—offline and online.
* These steps must be done or supervised by a service engineer using BESTCOMS™Pro software.
† Settings applied in these steps are the responsibility of the user or his hired consultant.

Machine Idle
1. Reconcile all external wiring with the connections shown on the system schematic diagrams.
2. Verify all auxiliary power circuits.
3. If a power potential transformer (PPT) is used, verify the transformer phasing. If a permanent magnet
generator (PMG) is used, check the phase rotation on the turning gear.
4. Energize the system modules and circuit boards and verify that the application firmware is the proper
version.∗
5. Check the scale and offset of all transducers using simulated sources.∗
6. Verify the operation of all relays, breakers, and control switches.
7. Check the exciter firing control and power bridges.
8. Check all adjusters, followers, regulators, and controllers using simulated sources.†
9. Confirm the operation of all limiting and protection functions using simulated sources. Adjust the
pickup and time delay settings according to the site/application requirements.∗†
10. Test the monitoring functions using simulated sources.∗†
11. Reconnect PPT or PMG (if original source was not used to check power bridge function).

Machine Running at Rated Speed, Generator Breaker Open

1. If a PMG is used, verify the PMG voltage magnitude and phase rotation.
2. Check the excitation system control offline.
3. Check system stability offline (bump test).

Machine Running at Rated Speed, Generator Breaker Closed

1. Ensure that the polarity and phase angle of the machine current signals are correct
2. If var or power factor control is used, check the system with controller enabled.
3. Check for correct setting and stability of various limiters using actual machine signals. Test settings or
software-injected test offsets may be used if necessary.∗†

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4. Verify power system stabilizer setup and operation.∗†

5. Check the final configuration of the system as it operates on the electrical system.†

Commissioning Procedures
Preparation
All service personnel should familiarize themselves with all site requirements and the associated
equipment before performing any testing.

Safety
For safety, the ground detector should be disabled and power should be removed from the enclosure
heaters while working in the unit. The field leads should be lifted when connected to a dummy load. When
supplying the power bridge from a test power source, the PPT or PMG leads should be lifted.
Connections between the shunt and field current transducer should be removed when a test source is
used. Remember to reconnect all circuits prior to spinning the generator.

Tracking Your Progress

A copy of the system schematic diagrams should be used as a checklist for tested circuits. As circuits are
tested, they can be crossed off. A system may contain circuits not covered here. Consult with the service
engineer for the proper procedures for testing these circuits.

Multiple Channels
Calibration must be performed on all channels of a system. Values obtained for a channel must be as
close as possible to the corresponding values for the other channels. A procedure should be conducted
simultaneously for all channels.

Preventing Trips
Disable all trip commands to avoid undesired trips. Remember to enable the trip commands prior to
spinning the generator.

External Wiring
A point-to-point check of all wiring connections, for continuity and proper polarity, should be performed.
Improper wiring or phasing can cause incorrect operation of the limiters and protection functions.

Auxiliary Power Circuits

Verify proper operation of all enclosure lights receptacles, thermostats, and heaters.

Power Source Phasing

Caution
Failure to verify the PPT connections, winding polarity, and the phase
sequence of all voltages may result in equipment malfunction and
damage.

Inspect the PPT connections and polarity. Confirm that the PPT primary connections provide a positive
phase sequence. Table 17 lists the typical terminal designations for the PPT and power bridge along with
the connections needed for positive, in-phase, sequence rotation.

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Table 17. Typical Terminal Designations

A-Phase B-Phase C-Phase
PPT Primary H1 H2 H3
PPT Secondary X1 X2 X3
Power Bridge Input PS1 PS2 PS3

The actual terminal nomenclature may vary according to the equipment used and site-specific
conventions. The key consideration for these connections is that the phase sequence of the three-phase
supply to ac isolation transducers and power bridge is positive when the 41 device is closed. If the
machine phase sequence is different from that shown on the excitation schematic, the cause must be
determined and corrected before the equipment is energized.

Firmware Verification
Verify that the output of the black-start power supply (fed by 125 Vdc control power) is 24 Vdc, ±3Vdc.
With a PC operating BESTCOMSPro software, connect to the ECM-2 and note the firmware version of the
module. Also note the version of the display panel.
Each step in the following procedure should be performed on all channels before continuing to the next
step. This practice will yield results with minimal differences between channels.
Establish communication between the ECM-2 and a PC operating BESTCOMSPro before calibrating the
input transducers.

Transducer Scale and Offset

Note
Each step in the following procedure should be performed on all
channels before continuing to the next step. This practice will yield
results with minimal differences between channels.
Establish communication between the ECM-2 and a PC operating
BESTCOMSPro before calibrating the input transducers.

Set the PT and CT inputs to zero by shorting the inputs at their respective input switches. Set the scales
of the SIGIN block corresponding to the PT and CT inputs to 1. Verify that the associated outputs of the
SIGIN block indicate that each PT and CT signal is close to zero (±0.0018). If they are not, use the
appropriate offset constant to make the output of each input close to zero. (Increase/decrease the offset
in increments of 0.5.) Remove all short-circuits from the PT and CT inputs.
1. Connect the regulator PT switches to a three-phase voltage source with a magnitude, frequency, and
phase sequence equal to the PT secondary voltage when the generator output is at its rated value.
Verify that the MAGNITUDE1 output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.0009. If it is not, use the
appropriate SIGIN block SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constants to make the output of the block equal to
1.000, ±0.0009. Set all three SIGIN block input constants (SIGIN_CH##_SCALE) to the same value
for a three-phase input.
2. Run a transfer curve with the input voltages of 90%, 110%, and 130% of the generator line voltage.
The results should be linear.
3. Connect the metering PT switches to a three-phase voltage with a magnitude, frequency, and phase
sequence equal to the PT secondary voltage when the generator output is at its rated value. Verify
that the MAGNITUDE2 output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.009. If it is not, use the appropriate
SIGIN block SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constants to make the output of the block equal to 1.000, ±0.0009.

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Set all three SIGIN block input constants (SIGIN_CH##_SCALE) to the same value for a three-phase
input.
4. Run a transfer curve with the input voltage set to simulate 90%, 110%, and 130% of the generator
line voltage. The results should be linear.
5. Temporarily adjust the CONFIG parameter of the PTCTTRN block by adding 8 hex to the present
value (configures the PTCTTRN for operation with a single CT input). Connect each CT switch to a
source of ac current equal in magnitude, frequency, phase sequence, and polarity to the CT
secondary currents when the generator output is at its rated value, verify that the CTMAGNITUDE
output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.005. If it not use the appropriate SIGIN block
SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constant associated with the phase-A CT input to make the output of the block
equal to 1.000, ±0.05. (Typically, phase-A CT constant is SIGIN_CH04_SCALE.)
6. Temporarily connect the CTPHASEA input of the PTCTTRN block to the SIGIN channel associated
with the phase-B CT. With the source still connected to each CT switch set equal in magnitude,
frequency, phase sequence, and polarity to the CT secondary currents when the generator output is
at its rated value, verify that the CTMAGNITUDE output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.005. If it
not use the appropriate SIGIN block SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constant associated with the phase-B CT
input to make the output of the block equal to 1.000, ±0.05. (Typically, phase-B CT constant is
SIGIN_CH05_SCALE.)
7. Temporarily connect the CTPHASEA input of the PTCTTRN block to the SIGIN channel associated
with the phase-C CT. With the source still connected to each CT switch set equal in magnitude,
frequency, phase sequence, and polarity to the CT secondary currents when the generator output is
at its rated value, verify that the CTMAGNITUDE output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.005. If it
not use the appropriate SIGIN block SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constant associated with the phase-C CT
input to make the output of the block equal to 1.000, ±0.05. (Typically, phase-C CT constant is
SIGIN_CH06_SCALE.)
8. Return the CTPHASEA input of the PTCTTRN block to its original value (the SIGIN channel
associated with the phase-A CT). Return the CONFIG parameter of the PTCTTRN block to its original
value. With the source still connected to each CT switch set equal in magnitude, frequency, phase
sequence, and polarity to the CT secondary currents when the generator output is at its rated value,
verify that the CTMAGNITUDE output of the PTCTTRN block is 1.000, ±0.005. If it not use the
appropriate SIGIN block SIGIN_CH##_SCALE constants to make the output of the block equal to
1.000, ±0.05. (Typically, these constants are SIGIN_CH04_SCALE, SIGIN_CH05_SCALE, and
SIGIN_CH06_SCALE.) Scale all three SIGIN_CH##_SCALE proportionally for a three-phase input.
9. Run a transfer curve with the CT input current at 1 Aac, 2 Aac, 3 Aac, and 4 Aac. The results should
be linear.
10. Apply values to the PT and CT inputs that simulate the generator at rated conditions. Use
BESTCOMSPro to capture an event that records the instantaneous voltage and current inputs. Verify
that the phasing is correct. Confirm on the display panel that the line voltage, line current, megawatts,
megavars, and power factor read correctly on all screens.
11. If the LOS2_SENS block is utilized, verify proper assignment of the CH_MET_VA thru CH_IC
parameters. With the appropriate values of PT and CT inputs to simulate the generator at rated
conditions applied, verify that the SEQ_V1 and SEQ_I1 outputs of the LOS2_SENS block are
1.00±.009 and that the SEQ_V2 and SEQ_I2 outputs are less than 0.100.

Note
For IT transducers, pin 19 is positive with respect to pin 20 and pin 21
is positive with respect to pin 22.

12. Remove the appropriate fuse and short the connections to the Phase AB line transducer (ALXDM).
Set the PPT_SCALEA parameter of the FLDSCALE block to 1. Verify that PPT_PTA output of the

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FLDSCALE block is 0 counts, ±2 counts. If it is not, adjust the PPT_OFFSETA parameter so that the
output is at 0, ±2 counts.
Connect the ac line transducer input (pins J19 and J20) to a dc voltage equal to the peak value of the
line-to-line voltage applied to the power bridges (√2 * Vrms). Verify that the PPT_PTA output is 1.000,
±0.0009. If it is not, adjust the PPT_SCALEA parameter of the FLDSCALE block until the PPT_PPA
output is 1.000, ±0.0009.
13. Remove the appropriate fuse and short the connections to the Phase BC line transducer (ALXDM).
Set the PPT_SCALEB parameter of the FLDSCALE block to 1. Verify that PPT_PTB output of the
FLDSCALE block is 0 counts, ±2 counts. If it is not, adjust the PPT_OFFSETB parameter so that the
output is at 0, ±2 counts.
Connect the ac line transducer input (pins J21 and J22) to a dc voltage equal to the peak value of the
line-to-line voltage applied to the power bridges (√2 * Vrms). Verify that the PPT_PTB output is 1.000,
±0.0009. If it is not, adjust the PPT_SCALEB parameter of the FLDSCALE block until the PPT_PPB
output is 1.000, ±0.0009.
14. Re-establish all connections and replace all fuses previously removed.
15. Remove the appropriate fuse and short the connection to the field voltage transducer (pins J21 and
J22 of DCXDM). Set the VG_SCALE parameter of the FLDSCALE block to 1. Verify that the
GEN_FLD_VLT output of the FLDSCALE block is at 0, ±2 counts. If it is not, adjust VG_OFFSET
parameter so that the output is at 0, ±2 counts.
16. Remove the short-circuit across the input of the field voltage transducer and apply a dc input equal to
the field voltage at full load. (The full-load field voltage can be calculated by multiplying the full-load
field current by the field resistance at rated operation field temperature, typically 70°C for hydro and
100°C for steam.) Verify that the GEN_FLD_VLT output of the FLDSCALE block is at 1.000, ±0.0009.
If it is not, adjust VG_SCALE so that the output is at 1.000, ±0.0009.
17. Run a transfer curve with the input voltage set to simulate 50%, 100%, and 150% of full-load field
voltage (if possible). All results should be linear.
18. Check the display panel to verify that the field voltage is displayed correctly on all screens.
19. Restore all DCXDM connections and replace the fuse removed in step 15.
20. Disconnect the leads from the output current shunt and short the connections of the field current
transducer (pins J19 and J20 of DCXDM). Set the IG_SCALE parameter of the FLD_SCALE block to
1 and IG_FILTER to 0.00. Verify that the GEN_FLD_CUR output of the FLD_SCALE block is 0, ±2. If
it is not, adjust IG_OFFSET so that the output is 0, ±2.
21. Remove the short circuit across the input of the field current transducer. Connect a millivolts-level
source to the input for the field current transducer (DCXDM). Apply an input that corresponds to the
shunt signal when field current is at full load. Verify that the GEN_FLD_CUR output of the
FLD_SCALE block is 1.000, ±0.0009. If it is not, adjust IG_SCALE so that the output is 1.000,
±0.0009.
22. Run a transfer curve with the input signal set to simulate 50%, 100%, and 200% of full-load field
current. All results should be linear.
23. Check the display panel to verify that the field current is displayed correctly on all screens.
24. Restore all DCXDM connections.
25. If the system contains both generator and exciter field transducers, repeat steps 15 thru 21
substituting EXC_FLD_VLT for GEN_FLD_VLT; EXC_FLD_CUR for GEN_FLD_CUR, VE_### for
VG_###; and IE_### for IG_### in each step.
26. If 4–20mAdc analog inputs are used to measure current, confirm that load resistors are present.
Verify that AD_OFFSET_3 and AD_GAIN_3 of the ALOGDIG block are properly set for channel 1
(per the system drawings and site transducers).
Confirm that AD_OFFSET_4 and AD_GAIN_4 of the ALOGDIG block are properly set for channel 2
(per the system drawings and site transducers).

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If a ground detector is used, channel 3 typically measures leakage to ground and can be configured
later as part of ground detector calibration.
27. If RTD inputs are used, check for proper setting of the following ALOGDIG block parameters:
AD_OFFSET_1, AD_GAIN_1, AD_OFFSET_2, AD_GAIN_2, AD_RTD_KSCALE, and AD_RTD_RZ.
Connect a test resistance in place of an RTD. For a 100 ohm input, the output of ALOGDIG should
indicate 0°C. for a 110 ohm input, the output of ALOGDIG should indicate 25.9°C. If this output
supplies a remote meter, inject signals and verify proper meter indications.
28. If analog outputs are used, refer to the system drawings and check the DIGALOG and DAC_OB
blocks for properly set offsets and scales. If this output supplies a remote meter inject signals and
verify proper meter indications.

Relays, Breakers, and Control Switches

Check the operation of all relays, contactors, cooling fans, circuit breakers, and adjusters. The various
control switches, located locally at system enclosure and remotely at the station operator’s control board,
should be checked also. Operation of all these devices must be in agreement with the system drawings.
Initial checks should be made with the local display panel followed by the control room switches, and then
the distributed control system screens.
For dual-channel systems, this portion of the procedure should be performed first with the main channel
in control. Then, all steps should be repeated with the redundant channel in control.
Connect a three-phase ac voltage source to the regulator PT switches. This source should have the same
magnitude and phase sequence as the PT secondary voltage when the generator output is at the rated
value.
The following steps serve as checks for the more typically used components.
1. Verify operation of a local/remote transfer. With local control, the system enclosure display panel
controls are enabled. With remote control, the control room switches are enabled and the display
panel screen switches on the system enclosure are disabled. Steps 2 through 10 should be
performed in local control and then repeated in remote control. Verify the operation of any local and
remote indicator lights.
2. Verify all aspects of field circuit breaker (41) operation: the 41A-CS close and trip commands, 41AX
relays, and interlocks. When the local 41CS is switch to the trip position, the lockout (86) device
operates immediately, initiating phase back. The 41A device trips about 5 seconds later (after a
software timer expires). Upon a site-supplied emergency trip, the 41A device operates immediately.
Check all 41A, 41AX, and 86 status indicator lights and contacts.
3. Verify operation of automatic/manual mode selections. Verify that the system can be transferred
between automatic and manual modes. Check for proper auto and manual indicator light operation.
4. Check the system for a proper response to a loss of sensing. Confirm that a transfer to manual mode
occurs when the regulator PT and metering PT (if used) voltage decreases below the selected value.
Normally, the system is started in auto mode. Since the PT voltage is low initially, the controls are
defaulted by the loss of sensing function to manual mode. When the PT voltage crosses the
selectable level in a predetermined time, the system transfers back into auto mode.
If metering PTs are used, the system transfers from one set of PTs to the other set when only one set
of PTs is low. Transfer to manual mode occurs when both sets of PTs go low. These scenarios can
be simulated in two ways. The first test simulates a blown fuse by disconnecting a single PT input.
The second test simulates a high-resistance fuse/connection by lowering the PT inputs.
5. While disconnected from the field, test operation of the field flashing circuitry. If included, set 31TD
according to the site requirements (typically 10 seconds). Check the 31 and 31X contacts in the alarm
and annunciator circuits. Ensure that field flashing is terminated when the field current builds up or
when regulator PT voltage is applied.
6. Verify operation of the automatic adjuster. Confirm that the traverse range and pre-position setting
meet the requirements of the application. With the 41A device tripped, the adjuster output is at the

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ACVLTADJ block soft start bias value (ACADJ_SS_BIAS) and cannot be moved under normal
operation. With 41A closed, the adjuster output can be moved.
To verify the traverse range, set the adjuster at minimum, and apply a PT signal until the ac error
signal reads zero. (A balance meter can be used if dc error is kept at zero.) This is the minimum
setting of the adjuster. With the adjuster set at maximum, apply a PT signal until the ac error signal
reads zero. Both of these settings (ACADJ_MAX and ACADJ_MIN) are selectable with
BESTCOMSPro software. The traverse time is set using ACADJ_SLEW.
7. Verify operation of the manual adjuster. Confirm that the traverse range and pre-position setting meet
the requirements of the application. With the 41A device tripped, the adjuster output is at the
MANADJ block soft start bias value (MANADJ_SS_BIAS) and cannot be moved under normal
operation. With the 41A device closed, the adjuster output can be moved.
To verify the traverse range, set the adjuster at minimum, and vary a simulated current shunt signal
until the dc error reads zero. (A balance meter can be used if ac error is kept at zero.) This is the
minimum setting of the adjuster. With the adjuster set at maximum, apply a simulated current shunt
signal until the dc error signal reads zero. Both of these settings (MANADJ_MAX and MANADJ_MIN)
are selectable with BESTCOMSPro software. The traverse time is set using MANADJ_SLEW.
8. Verify operation of the var control adjuster. Confirm that the traverse range and pre-position setting
meet the requirements of the application. With the 41A device tripped, the adjuster output is at the
VARCONTR block pre-position value (VRC_PP_1) and cannot be moved under normal operation.
With the 41A device closed, the adjuster output can be moved.
To verify the traverse range, set the adjuster at minimum, apply PT and CT signals, and adjust
simulated vars until the var balance signal reads zero. This is the minimum setting of the adjuster.
With the adjuster set at maximum, apply PT and CT signals and adjust the simulated vars until the
var balance signal reads zero. Both of these settings (VRC_MAX and VRC_MIN) are selectable with
BESTCOMSPro software. The traverse time is settable using VRC_SLEW.
9. If used, check operation of the 64 switch and field ground fault detector. Confirm that the ground fault
detector is disabled during field flashing.
10. If used, check operation of the cooling fans and their associated controls
11. Repeat steps 2 through 10 with the remote controls selected.
12. Check any other control features as indicated by the system drawings.

Firing Control and Power Bridges—Generator Not Spinning

Caution
If the excitation transformer is not used and a separate source is
connected to the 41A device, the excitation transformer secondary
connections to the 41A device must be disconnected, taped, and
tagged. Do not energize the excitation transformer secondary with the
test source.
Although starting resistors may be used as a load for this test, a higher
current load (preferably inductive) is preferred. If the rotor field will be
used as part of the load, an additional load resistor should be added in
series with the generator or exciter field. This resistor must be sized to
prevent any damage to the exciter or generator rotor and prevent
overloading of the test power source when the unit is not rotating.
(Current values less than no-load field current can damage the
generator or brushes.) Check with the customer to determine the safe
level of current for the stationary machine.
An idle, powered field must be closely supervised to prevent thermal
damage. Damage to brushes may also occur.

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In the following steps bridge operation, under control of the REG_SLCT3 block SLCT3_BASE signal, is
checked. Three-phase, 60 hertz power is required for this test and may be obtained from the excitation
transformer secondary if the transformer can be energized. If a separate source must be used, it should
be sized to give sufficient static exciter load and provide a reasonable operating test. The test supply can
have a closed, three-phase delta configuration or a three-phase, wye configuration. Do not use an open-
delta source for this test. Confirm that the phase sequence of the supply voltage agrees with the system
drawings. The three-test voltage should be connected at the input of the 41A device.
1. To simulate an open-loop condition, enable control of the power bridge output by setting
SLCT3_BASE. With the DECS-2100 out of service (41A open), set variable SLCT3_K1 at zero in all
channels. Set variable SLCT3_BASEFC to 1.0 in all channels.
2. If the system has only one power bridge, proceed to step 3. For a system with more than one bridge,
enable only one bridge by placing all other bridges in maintenance mode. This is accomplished with
the maintenance logic block. It is crucial that the ECM-2 being accessed corresponds to the channel
in control.
3. With a suitable load connected, connect an oscilloscope to view the SCR firing pulses at the power
amplifier modules. Close the 41A device and observe that the power amplifier output voltage is near
the level of no-load field voltage if test source is less than normal ac input voltage level, the field
voltage output will be reduced proportionally to the ratio of test voltage to nominal voltage. The
observed exciter output waveform should be similar to the waveforms shown in Figure 118. Note that
six SCR firings per cycle are indicated by the six “bumps” per cycle in the output waveform.

Figure 118. Typical Power Bridge Output Waveforms

Note
In order for the firing pulses to be properly displayed on the
oscilloscope, the oscilloscope must be synchronized to the firing circuit
supply voltage. If the ac line isolation transducer receives its voltage
from the same 60 hertz test source, then the oscilloscope can be set
to line synchronization. If the excitation transformer is serving as the
test supply and the oscilloscope is connected to 60 hertz station
power, a separate synchronization signal should be supplied to the
external synchronization terminal of the oscilloscope and the
oscilloscope should be set for external synchronization. An
oscilloscope current probe is highly recommended for measuring SCR
firing pulses.

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4. Verify that each firing pulse consists of a number of individual pickets, typically four pickets for each
firing pulse.

Caution
Do not dwell at ceiling voltage levels any longer than 60 seconds
unless the load is sized to handle continuous ceiling voltage. Load
resistors may become excessively hot during application of continuous
ceiling voltage. Allow sufficient cooling time (60 seconds) before
repeating the application of ceiling voltage.

5. Vary the SLCT3_BASE setting and observe that the firing pulses move from right to left on the
oscilloscope screen as the SLCT3_BASE setting increases (raise direction of the base adjuster).
Large values of SLCT3_BASE cause the unit to go to ceiling. Values of SLCT3_BASE near zero
cause the output voltage to approach zero. (Actual low-end voltage depends on whether or not the
simulated load is inductive.) Note that the negative output voltage—seen when the power bridge is
phased back to between 90 and 180 degrees of delay—is a momentary transient that appears only
with an inductive load.
The exciter output, in response to the SLCT3_BASE setting control, must be smooth and, with an
inductive load, approximately linear between the start of SCR conduction and near saturation voltage
(exciter ceiling voltage, where the ceiling voltage is 1.25 × test source voltage). Note that with a
resistive load, only the upper portion of the curve will be linear. Voltage will not decay to zero with
zero input.
6. Check the polarity of the field voltmeter in the control room.
7. Using the display panel, set the just-tested power bridge into maintenance mode and activate one of
the bridges previously set in maintenance mode. Repeat steps 3 through 6.
8. For a dual-channel system, when all bridges have been tested, transfer to the redundant channel and
repeat steps 3 through 7.
After completion of these power component tests, the logic circuitry should be tested. Leave the exciter
test load in series with the machine field and the test source ready for combination tests with the regulator
logic.

Adjusters, Followers, Regulators, & Controllers—Generator Not Spinning

Caution
Do not use the same 60 hertz test source simultaneously for the logic
modules and power modules. Test source power regulation may
cause unstable operation.

The following procedures provide methods for checking the more commonly used regulators, adjusters,
and controllers. For dual-channel systems, the following procedures should be performed first with the
main channel in control. Then, each step should be repeated with the redundant channel in control.
1. Check the setup of the automatic adjuster control (software block ACVLTADJ). With 41A closed use
the operator control to move the adjuster output from maximum to minimum. Observe
ACADJ_TRAVEL for the percent travel from 0 to 100. Verify that the maximum (ACADJ_REF),
minimum, and traverse time meet the operational requirements for the application.

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Open the 41A device and verify that the output returns to the soft start bias level. Check that this will
meet the site startup requirements. If used, check for correct operation of the adjuster position meter
or the minimum/maximum position indicator lights/contacts.
2. Check the setup of the manual adjuster control (software block MANADJ). Observe
MANADJ_TRAVEL for the percent of travel from 0 to 100. With the 41A device closed, use the
operator’s control to move the adjuster from maximum (MANADJ_REF) to minimum. Check that the
maximum, minimum, and traverse times are suited for the application requirements.
Open the 41A device and verify that the output returns to the soft start bias level. Check that this will
meet the site startup requirements. If used, check for correct operation of the adjuster position meter
or the minimum/maximum position indicator lights/contacts.
3. Check operation of the balance meter. With the 41A device open, disable the followers and var/power
factor controllers. Set RCOMP_XC and RCOMP_RC to zero in the REAC_COMP block. Set LDR_XD
and LDR_RC to zero in the LINEDROP block (if used). Set the PT and CT test sources to correspond
to rated values. Set the simulated field current to represent full-load field current. Verify that the
POWERTRN#00 block indicates the correct MW and Mvar readings. Close the 41A device. Set the
manual and auto adjuster outputs at 1.0. Confirm that the output of AUTO_MXR, as seen at the
REG_SLCT3 (SLCT3_ACR) and MAN_MXR (SLCT3_DCR), both read zero. Confirm that the
balance meter reads zero. Raise the auto adjuster and verify that the balance meter reads negative.
Raise the manual adjuster and verify that the balance meter returns to zero.
4. Check the manual adjuster followers. With the unit in auto mode and the followers disabled, lower the
PT test source to 98% of the rated value. Enable the followers. Check that the manual adjuster
(MANADJ_REF) output increases and the balance meter heads toward zero. The adjuster output
should stop moving when minimum is reached or when the balance meter approaches zero (within
the bandwidth of the manual follower).
5. Check the automatic adjuster followers. With the unit in manual mode and the followers disabled,
increase the PT test source to 100% of the rated value. Use the auto adjuster switch to return the
balance meter to zero. Set the simulated field current to 90% of full load and enable the followers.
Verify that the automatic adjuster (ACADJ_REF) output increases and the balance meter heads
toward zero. (The balance meter may cross zero and go positive.) The adjuster output should stop
moving when minimum is reached or when the balance meter approaches zero (within the bandwidth
of the automatic follower).
6. Return RCOMP_XC and RCOM_RC to their original values in the REAC_COMP block. Set the PT
and CT test signals to simulate 0 power factor, overexcited (lagging generator vars). For droop
compensation, ACREG_V2 should become more negative by the amount of droop compensation. For
rise compensation, ACREG_V2 should become more positive by the amount of droop compensation.
7. If line drop compensation is used, return the LINEDROP LDR_XCL and LDR_RCL parameters to
their original values. Apply PT and CT test signals that simulate 0 power factor, overexcited (lagging
generator vars). For droop compensation, ACREG_V2 should become more negative by the amount
of droop compensation. For rise compensation, ACREG_V2 should become more positive by the
amount of droop compensation.
8. If var control is used, check its setup through software block VARCONTR. With var control disabled,
set the PT and CT test signals to simulate rated load at unity power factor. Use the var control
raise/lower switches to set VRC_ERROR at zero. Reduce the PT test signal to below VRC_VMIN.
Adjust the CT test signal to simulate an overexcited generator (approximately 0.8 power factor,
lagging). Enable var control. Check the adjuster position and confirm that the ac adjuster output
remains unchanged. Return the PT test signal to the rated voltage. Verify that the output of the ac
adjuster decreases. Adjust the CT test signal to simulate an underexcited generator (approximately
0.8 power factor, leading). Confirm that the ac adjuster output increases.
9. If power factor control is used, check its setup through software block PFCONTR. With power factor
control disabled, set the PT and CT test signals to simulate rated load at unity power factor. Use the
power factor control raise/lower switches to set PFC_ERROR at zero. Reduce the PT test signal to
below PFC_VMIN. Adjust the CT test signal to simulate an overexcited generator (approximately 0.8
power factor, lagging). Enable power factor control. Check the adjuster position and confirm that the
ac adjuster output remains unchanged. Restore the PT test signal to the rated voltage and verify that
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the output of the ac adjuster decreases. Adjust the CT test signal to simulate an underexcited
generator (approximately 0.8 power factor, leading). Confirm that the ac adjuster output increases.
10. For a dual-channel system, set the PT and CT test signals to the rated values and adjust the field
current source to represent full-load field current. With the main channel in control, access the display
panel screen dedicated to the transfer of channel control. Verify that the tracker window reads 0,
±0.1.
11. Transfer control to the redundant channel and repeat step 10.

Limiters and Protective Functions

The following procedures cover the more common limiter and protection features and provide methods for
checking each function. The event recorder in BESTCOMSPro can be used to check short time delays as
needed. For a dual-channel system, block calibration should be performed at the same time for both
channels to obtain matched results.

Note
If desired, after each pickup point is verified, the operation of each
limiter can be viewed by monitoring the power bridge output voltage.
The firing circuit must be brought to a reasonable level prior to
application of the pickup test signal. The firing signal can be adjusted
with the auto/manual adjusters. The tracking circuit (adjuster followers)
should be disabled to prevent interference with limiter operation during
testing.

Maximum Excitation Limiter

Check the operation of the overexcitation limiter (OEL {MXL} time delay). Check all contact outputs,
indicator lights, and annunciations associated with the OEL (MXL).

Note
When a step change is performed, any instability of the signal source
will cause false operation of the pickup point and affect the timing. The
signal can be monitored with the data logging function.

1. Verify that the recal inputs do not affect the output. Raise the field current sensing input until the OEL
(OEL00_F1) picks up and record this value as the limiter pickup. (The OEL output remains at
OEL00_OFF while the OEL is timing.)
2. Raise the field current sensing input until the OEL (OEL00_F3) picks up and record this value as the
protection pickup.
3. Set the field current sensing source at 4% over the limiter pickup threshold. De-energize the field
current sensing source and wait for the inverse timer to expire. Switch the field current sensing
source on and measure the time until the OEL times out. Record this time. OEL00_F2 becomes
TRUE when the inverse timer expires. Verify that the measured time is consistent with the A, B, and
C settings and that the timing is coordinated with the generator thermal capability (ANSI C50.10,
C50.12-C50.14). Remove the field current sensing source.
4. Set the field current sensing source at 30% over the limiter pickup threshold. De-energize the source
and wait for the inverse timer to expire. Switch the field current sensing source on and measure the
time until the limiter and protective functions time out. Record this time. Verify that the measured time
is consistent with the A, B, and C settings and that the timing is coordinated with the generator
thermal capability.

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5. Check for correct operation of flags to transfer channels, disable followers, and initiate a unit trip per
the application requirements.
6. If used, check the temperature recalibration.
7. If used check the pressure recalibration.
8. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 through 7 for Setting Group 1.

Instantaneous Current Limiter

Check the operation of the instantaneous current limiter. Check all contact outputs, indicator lights, and
annunciations associated with the limiter.
1. Configure the system to simulate an open 52 breaker. Raise the field current test source input until
instantaneous limiter INS_F1 picks up and record this value as the offline limiter pickup.
2. Raise the field current test source until instantaneous limiter INS_F4 picks up and record this value as
the offline protection pickup. Remove the test source.
3. Set the test source at 4% over the offline protection pickup (INS_SP4). Switch the test source on and
measure the time until the INST_CUR timer expires. Record this value.
4. Configure the system to simulate a closed 52 breaker. Raise the level of the test source until
instantaneous limiter INS_F1 picks up. Record this value as the online limiter pickup.
5. Raise the field current test source until instantaneous limiter INS_F4 picks up. Record this value as
the online protection pickup. Remove the test source.
6. Adjust the test source to be 4% over online protection pickup INS_SP3 and remove the source.
Switch the source on and measure the time until all instantaneous current timers expire. Verify that
this value is coordinated with the generator thermal capability.
7. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 through 6 for Setting Group 1.

Volts per Hertz Limiter

Check the operation of the volts per hertz limiter (HXL). Check all contact outputs, indicator lights, and
annunciations associated with the limiter.
1. Increase the PT test source until HXL_F1 picks up. Record this value as the limiter pickup. Increase
the test source until HXL_F3 picks up. Record this value as the protection pickup.
2. Reduce the PT test source 15%. Suddenly increase the signal to 4% over the limiter pickup. Measure
the time until HXL times out. HXL_F2 becomes TRUE after the inverse timer expires. Confirm that
this timing is consistent with the settings and that the timing is coordinated with the generator
voltage/thermal capability (ANSI C37.XX).
3. Reduce the test source to 10% of nominal. Suddenly increase the signal to 10% over the limiter
pickup. Measure the time until HXL times out. HXL_F2 becomes TRUE when the inverse timer
expires. Confirm that the time obtained is consistent with the settings and is coordinated with the
voltage/thermal capability of the generator.
4. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 through 3 for Setting Group 1.

Overvoltage Limiter
Check the operation of the overvoltage limiter (OVL). Check all contact outputs, indicator lights, and
annunciations associated with the limiter.
1. Increase the PT test source voltage until OVL_F1 picks up. Record this value as the limiter pickup.
Increase the test source until OVL_F3 picks up and record this value as the protection pickup.
2. Reduce the PT test source to 10% of nominal. Suddenly increase the test source to 4% over the
limiter pickup. Measure the time until OVL times out. Verify that this timing is consistent per the
settings and that the timing is coordinated with the generator voltage capability.
3. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 and 2 for Setting Group 1.

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Minimum Excitation limiter

Check the operation of the minimum excitation limiter (MEL). Check all contact outputs, indicator lights,
and annunciations associated with the limiter.
1. Set the PT test source voltage at the rated value, the balance meter at zero, and the CT test source
at 0.5 Aac, 0 power factor. Simulate a closed 52 breaker. The MEL output should be negative and
equal to MEL_OFF. Increase the CT test source until the MEL picks up and record the value.
Increase the test source signal until MEL_F2 picks up and record the value.
2. Reduce the CT test source to 0.5 Aac. Then, increase the signal to 5% above the MEL_F2 pickup
and measure the time until the MEL_P timer expires. Record this timing.
3. Shift the phase angle 60 degrees to simulate 26 degrees (0.9 power factor, underexcited). Increase
the CT signal until the MEL picks up again and record the value. Typically, this value will be greater
than the CT signal at full-load, unity power factor. Verify that this value is coordinated with any loss of
field protection.
4. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 through 3 for Setting Group 1.

Underexcitation Limiter
Check the operation of the underexcitation limiter (UEL). Check all contact outputs, indicator lights, and
annunciations associated with the limiter.
1. Verify that the re-cal inputs are not affecting the outputs. Set the PT test source at the rated value,
zero the balance meter, and set the CT test source at 0.5 Aac, 0 power factor, lead). Simulate a
closed 52 breaker. The UEL output should be negative and equal to UEL_OFF. Raise the CT test
signal until the UEL picks up and record the value. Increase the CT signal again until UEL_F2 picks
up. Record this value.
2. Reduce the CT signal to 0.5 Aac. Then, increase the CT signal to 5% above MEL_F2 pickup and
measure the time until the UEL_P timer expires. Record this value.
3. Shift the phase angle 60 degrees to simulate 26 degrees (0.9 power factor, underexcited). Increase
the CT test source until the UEL picks up again. Record this value. Typically, this value will be greater
than the CT signal at full-load, unity power factor. Verify that this value is coordinated with any loss of
field protection.
4. If used, check the temperature recalibration.
5. If used check the pressure recalibration.
6. If dual setting groups are used, repeat Steps 1 through 5 for Setting Group 1.

Loss of Sensing and Other Limiter and Protection Settings

1. Check the loss of sensing. Verify operation of all relay outputs, indicator lights, and other
annunciations associated with loss of sensing. Remove one fuse to simulate a failed fuse.
2. Check the operation of any other limiter and protective features.
3. Set all limiters and protection elements according to the site requirements. Settings are the
responsibility of the end-user.

Monitoring Functions
Test the operation of all protective circuits, using test sources as required.

Generator Ground Detector

Check the operation of the generator ground detector and all associated relay outputs, indicator lights,
and annunciators. A typical test procedure is provided as follows. Use BESTCOMSPro to access the
FLDGND block.
1. Disconnect pin 5 of the ground detector from the field.

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2. Apply 120 Vac, 60 Hz to pins 6 and 7. Remove the resistor connected at pins 10 and 12. Verify that
there is not voltage across pins 1 and 2. Verify that output AD00_IN_A is a least +0.01. (This offset
voltage must always be positive.) Adjust parameter AD00_OFFSET_3, as needed, to obtain at least
+0.01 at output AD00_IN_A.
3. Force the appropriate relay on to apply 120 Vac across pins 8 and 9. Connect a 1 MΩ resistor (RT) at
pins 10 and 12. Measure the voltage output across RT (120 Vdc, ±20 Vdc). Confirm that parameter
FLDGND)SOURCEVOLTS equals that voltage. Disconnect RT from pins 10 and 11.
4. Connect a 1 kΩ resistor between the –125 V output (pin 5) and ground. Measure the voltage across
the resistor. Also measure the voltage across pins 1 and 2. Verify that output AD00_IN_A is the same
as the voltage measured across pins 1 and 2 (±0.001). If it is not, set AD00_RTDGAIN_3 to make it
match. Check that output FLDGND_GROUNDCURRENT equals the voltage across the 1 kΩ resistor.
If it does not adjust FLDGND_ITSCALE to make it match.
5. With the 1 kΩ resistor still connected across pins 4 and 5, FLDGND_RMIN should equal 1 k, ±0.3 k. If
it does not, adjust FLDGND_SOURCEOHMS to make it match. Verify that the field ground alarm
indications signify that a field ground has occurred.
6. Verify that FLDGND_VFSCALE equals the field voltage that was used to set the transducers.
7. Remove the 1 kΩ resistor from pins 4 and 5. Connect the 1 MΩ resistor (RT) across pins 10 and 12.
Verify that FLDGND_RMIN equals 1000 K, ±300 K. Verify that all field ground alarm indications have
cleared.

Field Overtemperature Alarms

If used, test the function of the field overtemperature alarms and all associated relay outputs, indicator
lights, and annunciators.
1. With the field voltage and current test source set at 1.0 per unit, check that FLDTEMP00_RBASE
equals the base load resistance and FLDTEMP00_TBASE equals the field temperature at which the
base load resistance was calculated. Check the metering outputs.
2. Reduce the simulated field current to 10% of nominal and check the alarms.

Reconnection to PPT or PMG

At this point, the entire DECS-2100 system has been checked and the system can be reconnected to the
machine in preparation for startup. All test voltage and sources should be removed and all system
components should be restored to the normal, in-service state. All test jumpers should be removed, all
protection functions restored, and all lifted leads re-landed.

Caution
Be sure that all external connections and settings are correct before
proceeding.

1. Enable the following circuits:

a. Minimum excitation limiter
b. Volts per hertz limiter
c. Maximum excitation limiter
d. Instantaneous limiter
e. Unit trip
2. Before startup of the generator:

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a. Check that all limiter and protection settings have been made. (Settings are the responsibility
of the end-user.)
b. Verify that the generator circuit breaker (52), device 41A, and flashing contactor 31 (if used)
are open.
c. Check that the manual adjuster (MANADJ_PP1) is set to give 70% no-load field current.
d. Verify that auto mode is selected and var or power factor control is disabled.
e. Check that the followers are disabled.
f. Check that all droop or rise compensators are disabled.
g. Close the three-pole, potential switch for the regulator PTs and the CT input switch. If used,
close the three-pole potential switch for the metering PTs.
h. Confirm that the connections to the generator field have been reconnected.
i. Confirm that the connections to the PPT or PMG have been reconnected.
j. Confirm that the space heaters have been reconnected.
k. Verify that the field ground detector connections have been reestablished.
l. Verify that all unit trip circuit connections have been made.
m. Check that all connections between the shunt and transducer have been remade.
3. Using BESTCOMSPro, establish an event recorder block to measure terminal voltage, firing
commands, field current, 41A close commands, 41A status, and 41A trip commands (both
instantaneous and time delayed) when the breaker is closed the first time. Set an event to be
triggered by the 41A close command. If field flashing is used, the 31 close command should also be
recorded. Other inputs may be recorded as desired.
4. Verify that the correct phase sequence exists at both the input terminals of device 41A and the
regulator input panel terminals. On shunt-powered systems, this can be done using an oscilloscope
looking at the residual generator voltage.
5. If a PMG is used, before closing the 41A device, verify that the magnitude of the PMG voltage
complies with the value listed on the system drawings.

Offline Excitation Control

1. With the generator operating at rated speed, close device 41A. Review the event to verify correct
operation of the equipment during the start.

Caution
Verify immediately that the generator field current corresponds to the
value set by PP#1 in the MANADJ block if the unit remains in manual
mode. If the unit is in auto mode, verify that the generator terminal
voltage corresponds to the value set by PP#1 in the AUTOADJ block.
Trip device 41A if the terminal voltage is excessive or if the field
current measured is radically higher than the machine field data
specifications.

Note
If the manual adjuster is set too low, the unit will not transfer into auto
mode. Raise the manual adjuster to enable a transfer into auto mode.

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2. If the unit is operating in manual mode, use the manual adjuster to make the terminal voltage equal to
1.0 per unit. (If the field current instantaneous limiter prevents raising voltage, increase the offline trip
setting first and then the offline limiter setting.) Enable the adjusters and verify that the balance meter
indicates nearly zero. Transfer the unit to auto mode. The terminal voltage bump should be small.

Caution
Do not exceed the machine voltage rating during any of these tests.
Exceeding the voltage ratings may result in personal injury and
equipment damage.

3. If the unit is operating in auto mode, use the auto adjuster to make the terminal voltage equal to 1.0
per unit. (If the field current instantaneous limiter prevents raising voltage, increase the offline trip
setting first and then the offline limiter setting.) Enable the adjuster followers and verify that the
balance meter indicates nearly zero. Transfer the unit to manual mode, and then back to auto mode.
The bump in terminal voltage should be small.
4. If the output field temperature monitor is being used, check that FLDTEMP00_FIELDTEMP equals
the temperature of the cold rotor field. (This should be checked before the field has had a chance to
warm up.) If the values do not match, adjust FLDTEMP00_TBASE.
5. Holding the machine at rated speed and rated, no-load terminal voltage, check the three-phase
voltage present at regulator input panel terminals 7-8-9. This voltage should be approximately 120 VL-
L and have a phase sequence of 7-8-9. The metered value should agree with the regulator Pt ratio on
the system drawings. If the values disagree, determine the cause before proceeding.
6. Verify that the output of the terminal voltage transducers reads 1.00. (Check both channels for a dual-
channel system.) If the output is incorrect, adjust the scale factors in the SIGIN block of each channel.
7. Verify that SLCT3_V8 reads between 1.0 and 1.15. (A precise value for V8 should be based on the
generator saturation curve and be equal to the actual field current at no load divided by the air gap
field current at rated voltage (read from the saturation curve).) Adjust SLCT3_KFC to correct the
SLCT3_V8 reading as needed. For a dual-channel system, change SLCT3_KFC in the redundant
channel to the adjusted value.
8. Confirm operation of the manual regulator (unit is in auto mode) in both the raise and lower directions.
This is accomplished by moving the manual voltage adjuster to cause the regulator balance meter to
indicate one side of zero and then the other side of zero. This action by the voltage adjuster should
not affect the machine terminal voltage.
9. Move the voltage adjuster in the lower direction. This action should reduce the machine terminal
voltage. The balance meter should return to near zero. Move the voltage adjuster in the raise
direction, causing the machine terminal voltage to return to normal. Adjust ACADJ_SLEW as needed
for smooth voltage control.
10. Transfer the unit to manual mode and move the manual adjuster in the lower direction. This action
should reduce the machine terminal voltage. The balance meter should return to near zero. Move the
voltage adjuster in the raise direction, causing the machine terminal voltage to return to normal.
Adjust MANADJ_SLEW as needed for smooth voltage control.
11. Return the unit to auto mode.
12. For a dual-channel system, verify the tracker and that “transfer possible” is enabled. Verify that the
tracker value is close to 0, ±0.1. Transfer control to the redundant channel and repeat steps 8 through
11.
If desired, the unit can be switched to the redundant channel with the 41A device open. The
generator field can be flashed again and the steps in this chapter repeated.

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Offline Stability and Damping

Note
The offline instantaneous limiter must be set high enough so as not to
impact the bump test. Positive voltage bumps with a rotating exciter
can cause the limiter to effectively reduce the generator ceiling voltage
and make the response look like that of an over- or critically-damped
regulator. See Figure 119.

Figure 119. Generator Output Responses

Stability and damping adjustments of the system are usually made with the synchronous machine offline
(except for synchronous condensers that must be connected to the system to operate). If settings have
been determined by stability studies, those values should be set before performing bump testing.

Caution
Exercise care when performing these tests to avoid subjecting the
machine to terminal voltages that exceed its rating.

1. Using BESTCOMSPro set up an event recorder to measure the bump input signal (EXC_SIG output
of the SSE block), terminal voltage, field voltage, firing command, and field current during the offline
bump tests. Configure the event to trigger on application of the bump signal. Configure the duration of
the event recorder to capture both the application and removal of the bump input signal. Other inputs
may be recorded as desired.
2. With the generator operating at rated speed and offline, adjust the terminal voltage to rated value by
means of the auto adjuster.

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3. Using the Time Response window of BESTCOMSPro configure a test signal type of “Step” with a
magnitude of -0.010, and step duration of 10 seconds. Configure the test signal injection location to
“Auto Error”. Initiate a voltage bump test by pressing “Start”. Gradually increase voltage bumps to 5%
changes first in the lower direction (negative magnitude) and then in the raise direction (positive
magnitude) for various damping adjustments. By observing the response action on the data record,
optimum damping adjustments can be made. See Figure 119 for suggested optimum response
conditions. Exercise care so that the unit is not under damped when offline. This can cause
oscillations when the unit is operating online.

Machine PT and CT Signal Polarity and Phase Angle

1. Use BESTCOMSPro to configure an event recorder block to measure the regulator PT inputs, CT
inputs, and terminal voltage. If metering PTs are used, they should also be recorded. Synchronize the
machine with the power grid. Load the machine to approximately 10% rated MW load (or higher if
required by turbine conditions).
2. With the generator connected to the power system (breaker 52 closed) and the machine operating at
unity power factor, check the phase angle between the current and voltage. At unity power factor, the
B-phase line current should lag the A-B line voltage by approximately 150 degrees. If needed, adjust
POWERTRN00_PHASE (for all channels) to make POWERTRN00_MVAR read 0.00 at unity power
factor. This compensates for phase shifts between the regulator PTs and CTs from the ideal 150
degree phase shift.
3. Enable all reactive compensation functions. Verify the required settings with the end-user. For
satisfactory parallel operation, there should be a 4 to 6% reactance between the machine terminals
and the system. This reactance can be in the generator step-up transformer (GSU) or the regulator
can be biased by the droop compensator. In this case, a setting of 4 to 6% reactive droop will achieve
the desired result.
4. Using auto control, raise the level of excitation slightly. That is, set the generator to supply vars to the
system. For droop compensation, verify that the adjuster reference moves slightly more than the
terminal voltage increase. Verify that for rise compensation, the adjuster reference moves slightly less
than the terminal voltage increase.
5. After verifying that the regulator balance meter is near zero, transfer from auto to manual control
mode. Carefully operate the manual adjuster slightly in the lower and raise directions. Observe that
the machine reactive loading decreases in response to lowering the adjuster and increases in
response to raising the manual adjuster. Transfer the system back to automatic control.
6. For a dual-channel system, verify that tracker is reading close to zero and then transfer from the main
channel to the redundant channel. The oscillations in voltage should be very small. Repeat step 5.
Transfer control of the system back to the main channel.
7. If desired, a bump test can be performed at this time. When performing an online bump, care should
be taken to avoid excessive var swings. Use the adjuster to determine how much voltage change
corresponds to a 10% var change. Typically, the magnitude of the bump should cause no more than
a 10% var change. Check with the end-user to determine a desired or expected value. An event
recording for an online bump should include terminal voltage, firing command, field current, and
machine Mvar and MW.
8. If possible, increase the machine load to rated MW and power factor. Field current transducer scaling
should be checked at full load. At full load, the field current transducer should read 1.00. Note that if
the field current transducer scaling is changed, the offline settings must also be adjusted.

Var/Power Factor Control

Caution
If any raise or lower operations cause system disturbances, quickly
transfer control from auto to manual mode.

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Verify that the var controller error is near zero. Place the system in var mode. Raise and lower the var
level using the var controls. Adjust VRC_SLEW (VARCONTR block) or PFC_SLEW (PFCONTR block) as
needed for smooth control.

Power System Stabilizer

Configuration and testing of the PSS should be performed only by a person experienced in power system
stabilizer operation.

Limiters
If a PSS is used, the PSS should be tuned and in service while doing any limiter tests. As required, each
limiter should be tested to take control of the excitation system online. An offset may be put into the limiter
setpoint to recalibrate the pickup to occur in a safe region of operation.

Final Check of System Operation

Upon completion of all testing, final checks of system operation should be made with the machine
connected to the system. A final check of the ground detector should also be made.

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Module Setup Summary

Tables 6-2 through 6-3 are provided as aids in configuring the ECM-2 and isolation transducers.

Table 18. Summary of PPT or PMG Transducer Setup

INPUT SET INPUT TO MAKE OUTPUT
INPUT VALUE BLOCK
CONNECTION PARAMETER READ
J19 to J20 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE PPT_OFFSETA PPT_PTA = 0+2 counts

DC Voltage equal to PPT PPT_SCALEA PPT_PTA = 1.000+.0009

Secondary Peak (√2 *
rms)
J21 to J22 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE PPT_OFFSETB PPT_PTB=0+2 counts

DC Voltage equal to PPT PPT_SCALEB PPT_PTB = 1.000+.0009

Secondary Peak (√2 *
rms)

Table 19. Summary of Field Current and Voltage Transducer Setup

INPUT BLOCK (in SET INPUT TO MAKE OUTPUT
INPUT VALUE
CONNECTION ECM) PARAMETER READ
J21 to J22 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE VG_OFFSET GEN_FLD_VLT
= 0+2 counts
DC Volts = 100% of VG_SCALE GEN_FLD_VLT
GENERATOR RATED = 1.000+.0009
FULL LOAD at 75 DEG. C
J19 to J20 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE IG_OFFSET GEN_FLD_CUR
= 0+2 counts
DC mV = 100% of IG_SCALE GEN_FLD_CUR
GENERATOR RATED = 1.000+.0009
FULL LOAD
J21 to J22 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE VE_OFFSET EXC_FLD_VLT
= 0+2 counts
DC Volts = 100% of VE_SCALE EXC_FLD_VLT
EXCITER RATED FULL = 1.000+.0009
LOAD at 75 DEG. C
J19 to J20 ZERO (Short) FLDSCALE IE_OFFSET EXC_FLD_CUR
= 0+2 counts
DC mV = 100% of IE_SCALE EXC_FLD_CUR
EXCITER RATED FULL = 1.000+.0009
LOAD

Auto Tuning

Caution
PID values calculated by the Auto Tuning function are to be
implemented only after their suitability for the application has been
verified by the user. Incorrect PID numbers can result in poor system
performance or equipment damage.

During commissioning, excitation system parameters are not known. These unknown variables
traditionally cause the commissioning process to consume a large amount of time and fuel. With the
development of auto tuning the excitation system parameters are automatically identified and the PID
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gains are calculated using well-developed algorithms. Automatically tuning the PID controller greatly
reduces commissioning time and cost. The auto tuning function is accessed by clicking the Auto Tune
option under View Explorer, Commissioning. BESTCOMSPro must be connected to an ECM-2 in order to
begin the auto tuning process. The auto tune window provides options for choosing Design Method for
PID, Exciter Type, and Power Input Type. When the desired settings are selected, the Start button is
clicked to start the process. See Figure 120.

Figure 120. Auto Tune Window

Design Method for PID: Set to either Pole Zero Cancellation or Pole Placement.
Exciter Type: Set to either Rotary or Static.
Power Input Type: Set to either PMG External or Shunt.
Start: Begins the auto tuning process.
The File menu contains the following selections:
Options: The options window is displayed.
Stop Test: The current test is stopped.
Run Loop Gain: Runs loop gain.
Run Step Only: Runs step only.
Synch Graph Scrolling: When the checkbox is checked, the graphs are all set to the same position on the
X-axis and they scroll simultaneously when one of the graphs is scrolled.
The options window contains the following four tabs, illustrated in Figure 121, Figure 123, Figure 122, and
Figure 124:
Steady State: Set the delay, time, threshold, bias, and PP.
Steady State Controller: Set Kp, Ki, and K1.
Step: Set the step magnitude, time, and Kp.
Misc.: Set the sample rate.

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Figure 121. Steady State Tab Figure 122. Step Tab

Figure 123. Steady State Controller Tab Figure 124. Misc Tab

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Right-clicking on the graph areas displays the following options. See Figure 130.

Copy: Copy the image of the graph to the clipboard.

Save Image As: Save the image of the graph as a .emf, .png, .gif, .jpg, .tif, .bmp.
Page Setup: Set up the printing options.
Print: Print the graph.
Un-Zoom: Reset the zoom.
Undo All Zoom/Pan: Reset the zoom and pan position to the original state.
Export Data: Export the graph data as a .txt file.
Cursors: Contains options for Goto Cursor X and Move Cursor X into View.
Lines: Display Data Points, Show Point Values, Interpolated, Smooth, Step.
Format: Toggle Background Color, Show Grid Lines, X Axis Autofit.
Set X Scale: Scaling Options, Manual or Automatic, Minimum, Maximum.
Figure 125. Right-
Click Menu
Rolling the mouse wheel up or down when the cursor is hovering over the graph
area causes the view to zoom in or out.

Auto Tune Screen Functions

The Auto Tune screen functions are described below.
• Parameters are selected for Design Method for PID, Exciter Type, and Power Input Type.
• With the generator running and offline (no load, not tied to grid), the Start button is clicked to start
auto tune. Generator voltage drops and a softstart begins.
• A step response is performed after softstart completes and the voltage is stable to within the
THRESH input parameter.
• The PID value is calculated after the step response is complete.
• The number of iterations during calculation is displayed above the graph window. (Maximum iteration
count = 100).
• Calculated gain and time constant parameters are displayed which must be applied appropriately to
the system.

AUTOTUNE Logic Inputs/Outputs

Table 20 describes the AUTOTUNE logic inputs and outputs.
Table 20. AUTOTUNE Logic Inputs and Outputs

Input Name Description

REG_FIR_CMD Regulator normal firing command.
GEN_VOLTS Generator voltage input.
ENABLE Permissive enable logic input.
CONFIG Config word
Set bit 0 to “1” when shunt excited
MODE Autotune mode. Set automatically by BESTCOMSPro
during the auto tuning process.
0 – Disabled
1 – PI Control
2 – P Control
3 – Step response
SSTIME Soft Start Time

SSBIAS Soft Start Bias

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Input Name Description

PP Soft Start Preposition. Set automatically by
BESTCOMSPro during the auto tuning process.
THRESH Steady State Threshold

TD Steady State Time Delay

STEP_KP Proportional gain for step response. Set automatically

by BESTCOMSPro during the auto tuning process.
STEP_MAG Step input magnitude for step response

STEP_TIME Step input time for step response

KI Integral gain for PI control

KP Proportional gain for PI control

K1 FIRING_CMD output gain. Set by BESTCOMSPro to

the calculated system loop gain when
AUTOTUNE_MODE is 2 or 3.
RATE Buffering rate limit. Used by BESTCOMSPro to control
rate at which data samples are collected and plotted
during auto tuning process. Set automatically by
BESTCOMSPro during the auto tuning process.
MIN_FIR_CMD Minimum firing command output during the auto
tuning process
Output Name Description
STATUS Bit 0 is set to “1” when the PI controller reaches
steady state.
ACTIVE TRUE when AUTOTUNE block is not inhibited by
ENABLE input and BESTCOMSPro starts the auto
tuning process
FIRING_CMD Output signal of active controller

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Register Variable Description

40267 SCRBN_CURRENT: From CSL block in BCM
40268 SCRCP_CURRENT: From CSL block in BCM
40269 SCRCN_CURRENT: From CSL block in BCM
40270 BRG_POS_CURRENT: From CSL block in BCM
40271 BRG_NEG_CURRENT: From CSL block in BCM
40272 SPARE:

Modbus Communication ECM-2

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Maintenance
Preventative maintenance consists of periodic replacement of the backup battery and periodically
checking that the connections between the ECM-2 and the system are clean and tight. ECM-2 units are
manufactured using state-of-the-art, surface-mount technology. As such, Basler Electric recommends that
no repair procedures be attempted by anyone other than Basler Electric personnel.

Backup Battery
During a loss of operating power, ECM-2 timekeeping is maintained by a battery located in a holder on
the lower side of the module. Battery replacement every five years is recommended to maintain this
capability. The ECM-2 uses a BR2032 lithium coin battery (Basler P/N 38526). Battery replacement is
facilitated through the battery holder’s glide-out tray. Refer to Figure 125. Spent batteries should be
disposed of in an environmentally-responsible manner.

Caution
Replacement of the backup battery for the real-time clock should be
performed only by qualified personnel.
Do not short-circuit the battery, reverse battery polarity, or attempt to
recharge the battery. Observe polarity markings on the battery socket
when inserting a battery. Battery polarity must be correct in order to
provide backup for the real-time clock.

Note
Failure to replace the battery with Basler Electric P/N 38526 may void
the warranty.
When the system is connected to IRIG or NTP, the internal time clock
is updated automatically; therefore the backup battery is not
necessary.

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+ +
+

05
6-
06
P0

Figure 125. Battery Replacement

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Specifications
ECM-2 electrical and physical specifications are listed in the following paragraphs.

Operating Power (2 Inputs)

Nominal ................................................................ 24 Vdc
Range ................................................................... 17 to 36 Vdc
Hold-Up (Ride Through) ....................................... 0.2 s
Burden .................................................................. 30 W

Analog Inputs (24)

Maximum Range .................................................. 57 Vdc/40 Vac rms

Analog Outputs (2)

Analog Voltage Output
Voltage Control Output Range ............................. ±10 Vdc or 0 to +10 Vdc
Burden .................................................................. 1 kΩ minimum

Analog Current Output

Current Control Output Range ............................. 4 to 20 mAdc
Burden .................................................................. 800 Ω maximum

Input Contacts (4)

Range ................................................................... 24 Vdc or 125 Vdc/120 Vac (switch-selectable)
Input contact switches are set at the factory according to the DECS-2100 system. For information on
changing the voltage range, refer to Installation.

Output Contacts (4)

Carry Ratings (Resistive)
24 Vdc/125 Vdc .................................................... 7.0 Adc
120 Vac ................................................................ 7.0 Aac

Make and Break Ratings (Resistive)

24 Vdc .................................................................. 7.0 Adc
125 Vdc ................................................................ 0.2 Adc
120 Vac ................................................................ 7.0 Aac

Regulation
Accuracy and Stability
Regulation Accuracy ............................................ ±0.1% over the load range, at rated power factor and
constant generator frequency
Steady-State Stability ........................................... ±0.2% at constant load and frequency

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Temperature Stability ........................................... ±0.5% between 0 and 50°C (32 and 122°F) at constant
load and frequency
Response Time .................................................... <1 cycle

Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)

Voltage Range ..................................................... 40 to 120% of rated generator terminal voltage
Frequency Range ................................................. 20 to 180 Hz (50/60 Hz systems)

AVR with Reactive Current Compensation

Compensation Range .......................................... ±20%
Time Constant Range .......................................... 0.1 to 4 s
Setting Accuracy .................................................. ±0.1%

Manual Regulation
Generator Field Current
Range ................................................................... 1 or 5% no-load to 125% full-load
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

Generator Field Voltage

Range ................................................................... 5% no-load to 125% full-load
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

Exciter Field Current

Range ................................................................... 1 or 5% no-load to 125% full-load
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

Exciter Field Voltage

Range ................................................................... 5% no-load to 125% full-load
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

Var Control Regulation

Range ................................................................... –100 to +100% of generator MVA rating
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

PF Regulation
Range ................................................................... –0.5 to –1.0 leading, 0.5 to 1.0 lagging
Accuracy............................................................... ±0.5%

Setpoint Traverse Rate

Setting Range ...................................................... 5 to 200 s

Limiters
Minimum Excitation
Generator Capability Curve
Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 125% of generator MVA rating (leading)
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

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Stability Limit Accuracy

Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 125% of generator MVA rating (leading)
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Overexcitation
Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 130% of full-load field current or voltage
Time Delay ........................................................... Inverse time curve
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Volts per Hertz

Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 130% of generator rating
Time Delay ........................................................... Inverse time, between 2 defined endpoints
Time Delay 1 Range ............................................ 10 to 1,000 s
Time Delay 2 Range ............................................ 0.2 to 10 s

Overvoltage
Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 130% of generator rating
Pickup Accuracy ................................................... ±0.5%
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Undervoltage
Pickup Range ....................................................... 30 to 100% of generator rating
Pickup Accuracy ................................................... ±0.5%
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Minimum Field Excitation

Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 100% of full-load field current or voltage
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 300 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Instantaneous Overcurrent
Setpoint Range (52 breaker open) ....................... 10 to 120% of no-load field current
Setpoint Range (52 breaker closed) .................... 100 to 400% of full-load field current
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Var
Setpoint Range .................................................... 0 to 200% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 300 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

Generator Line Current

Setpoint Range .................................................... 20 to 400% generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0 to 60 s
Accuracy............................................................... ±1%

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Protection Functions
Minimum Excitation
Generator Capability Curve
Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 125% of generator MVA rating (leading)
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 10 s

Stability Limit
Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 125% of generator MVA rating (leading)
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 10 s

Overexcitation
Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 140% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 10 s

Volts per Hertz

Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 140% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 10 s

Overvoltage
Pickup Range ....................................................... 110 to 160% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 20 s

Undervoltage
Pickup Range ....................................................... 30 to 100% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 20 s

Minimum Field Excitation

Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 100% of full-load field current or voltage
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 240 s

Instantaneous Overcurrent
Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 500% of rated generator or exciter field current
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 2 s

Var
Pickup Range ....................................................... 0 to 200% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 300 s

Generator Line Current

Pickup Range ....................................................... 100 to 200% of generator rating
Time Delay Range ............................................... 0.02 to 20 s

Alarm Indication
Generator Field Temperature Monitor
Low Temperature Level Setpoint Range ............. 40°C to 150°C (104°F to 302°F)
High Temperature Level Setpoint Range............. 40°C to 150°C (104°F to 302°F)
High Temperature Level Time Delay Range........ 0.2 to 20 s

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Exciter Field Temperature Monitor

Low Temperature Level Setpoint Range ............. 40°C to 150°C (104°F to 302°F)
High Temperature Level Setpoint Range............. 40°C to 150°C (104°F to 302°F)
High Temperature Level Time Delay Range........ 0.2 to 20 s

Data Logger
Data log records are stored in non-volatile memory every 10 minutes.
Inputs per Record ................................................. 12
Sampling Rate Interval ......................................... 1 s minimum
Record Size .......................................................... 100,000 points per record

Event Recorder
Event records are stored in non-volatile memory once the event is captured.
Number of Event Records .................................... 4
Inputs per Record ................................................. 8
Sampling Rate Interval ......................................... 1 ms minimum
Record Size .......................................................... 100,000 points per record

Sequence of Events Recording

Up to 16,000 events are time- and date-stamped and stored in non-volatile memory.
Number of User-Programmable Inputs ................ 64

Metering Accuracy
Generator and Bus Voltage.................................. ±1%
Generator and Bus Frequency ............................. ±0.1 Hz
Generator Line Current ........................................ ±1%
Generator Apparent Power (VA) .......................... ±1%
Generator Active Power (W) ................................ ±1%
Generator Reactive Power (var) .......................... ±1%
Power Factor ........................................................ ±0.02 PF
Field Current and Voltage .................................... ±1%
Auxiliary Voltage and Current Input ..................... ±1%

Communication Interface
USB Ports (2)
USB 1 (Intended for Computer Interface)
Type ..................................................................... USB 2.0, Type-B
Data Transfer Speed ............................................ 12 MB/s (Full Speed)

USB 2 (Intended for Memory Storage Device)

Type ..................................................................... USB 2.0, Type-A
Data Transfer Speed ............................................ 12 MB/s (Full Speed)

ECM-2 Training 0BSpecifications

198 9411300990 Rev D

Ethernet Ports (2)

Type ..................................................................... RJ-45, eight-pin, 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
Maximum Length (One Network Segment) .......... 328 ft (100 m)

RS-485 Ports (3)

Type RJ-45, eight-pin
Data Transfer Speed ............................................ Minimum 115,200 baud

RS-232 Port (1)

Type D-sub, nine-pin
Data Transfer Speed ............................................ Maximum 115,200 baud

Backup Battery for Real-Time Clock

The backup battery maintains the real-time clock when neither IRIG nor NTP is connected.
Battery Replacement Interval ............................... Every 5 years
Battery Holdup Time with Power Off .................... Approximately 5 years
Battery Type ......................................................... Rayovac BR2032, lithium, coin-type, 3 Vdc, 195 mAh
Basler Electric P/N 38526

Environment
The ECM-2 meets the following standards.
EN-50178 (1998) .................................................. Electronic Equipment for use in Power Installations
IEC 60068-1 (1992) .............................................. Basic Environmental Testing
IEC 60068-2-1 (2007) .......................................... Cold Test
IEC 60068-2-2 (2007) .......................................... Dry Test
IEC 60068-2-13 (1983) ........................................ Altitude
IEC 60068-2-30 (2005) ........................................ Damp Heat
IEC 60255-21-1 (1988) ........................................ Vibration
IEC 60255-21-2 (1988) ........................................ Shock and Bump
IEC 60255-22-1 (2007) ........................................ Oscillatory Test Wave (SWC)
IEC 61000-4-2 (2008) .......................................... Electrostatic Discharge
IEC 61000-4-3 (2008) .......................................... Radiated Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field
IEC 61000-4-4 (2007) .......................................... Electrical Test Transient Burst
IEC 61000-4-5 (2008) .......................................... Surge Immunity
IEC 61000-4-6 (2008) .......................................... Conducted Disturbance Induced by RF Fields (Current
Injection)
IEC 61000-4-8 (2009) .......................................... Testing and Measurement Techniques (Power
Frequency Magnetic Field Immunity
IEC 61000-6-2 (2005) .......................................... Generic Immunity
IEC 61000-6-4 (2006) .......................................... Generic Immunity

Operating and Storage Temperature

Operating Range .................................................. –40°C to +60°C (–104°F to +140°F)
Storage Range ..................................................... –40°C to +65°C (–104°F to +149°F)

Humidity
Operating Range .................................................. 0 to 95% non-condensing humidity

0BSpecifications ECM-2 Training

9411300990 Rev D 199

Altitude
Operating Range .................................................. Up to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet)

Agency Certifications
CE Compliance
In its intended use, this equipment conforms with the relevant union harmonization legislation:
Low Voltage Directive (LVD) ................................ 2014/35/EU
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) .................. 2014/30/EU

NIIPT
NIIPT, JSC Russian certification

Patents
U.S. Patent #6,724,643
U.S. Patent #7,345,456
Other U.S. patents pending

Physical
Weight .................................................................. 2.26 kg (5.00 lb)
Size ...................................................................... Refer to the Mounting chapter

ECM-2 Training 0BSpecifications

200 9411300990 Rev D

0BSpecifications ECM-2 Training

12570 State Route 143 No. 59 Heshun Road Loufeng District (N) 111 North Bridge Road
Highland IL 62249-1074 USA Suzhou Industrial Park 15-06 Peninsula Plaza
Tel: +1 618.654.2341 215122 Suzhou Singapore 179098
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