ShockLog Essentials
User Manual

  

May 2014

www.shockwatch.com  

 
 
 

   

 
User Manual

CONTENTS 
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 8
PRODUCT INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 8
SHOCKLOG 298 ....................................................................................................................................... 9
SHOCKLOG 248 ..................................................................................................................................... 10
SHOCKLOG 208 ..................................................................................................................................... 11
OVERVIEW OF ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS ...................................................................................... 12
SHOCKLOG ACCESSORY KIT.............................................................................................................. 12
HPT (HUMIDITY PRESSURE TEMPERATURE) SENSOR ................................................................... 12
SHOCKLOG 298 TILT AND ROLL ......................................................................................................... 12
SHOCKLOG 298 GPS ............................................................................................................................ 13
SHOCKLOG 298 RF ............................................................................................................................... 13
ETRAK GPS/GPRS TRACKING & COMMUNICATION MODULE ........................................................ 13
GETTING STARTED .................................................................................................................................. 13
IDENTIFYING SOFTWARE VERSIONS ................................................................................................ 13
IDENTIFYING HARDWARE VERSIONS................................................................................................ 14
SHOCKLOG SOFTWARE INSTALLATION............................................................................................ 14
AUTOMATIC CHECK FOR UPDATES ................................................................................................... 18
LANGUAGE SUPPORT .......................................................................................................................... 18
BATTERIES ............................................................................................................................................ 18
INSTALLING THE BATTERIES .......................................................................................................... 19
SETTING UP THE SHOCKLOG 298 GPS (OPTIONAL ADD-ON) ........................................................ 19
SHOCKLOG MOUNTING RECOMMENDATIONS................................................................................. 20
OPENING THE SOFTWARE & INITIAL LAYOUT SETUP......................................................................... 20
CREATING A SETUP FILE......................................................................................................................... 22
SELECT MODEL OR FILE ..................................................................................................................... 22
SETUP WINDOW ................................................................................................................................... 23
FIRMWARE OPTIONS ........................................................................................................................... 23
STANDARD OPTIONS ....................................................................................................................... 23
FACTORY OPTIONS .......................................................................................................................... 23
PERIPHERALS ................................................................................................................................... 24
RD401 ................................................................................................................................................. 24
IBUTTON PASSWORD ...................................................................................................................... 24
SETTINGS .............................................................................................................................................. 24

       

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SETUP NAME ..................................................................................................................................... 25

START DATE ...................................................................................................................................... 25
MISSION COMMENT ......................................................................................................................... 25
PROTOCOL ........................................................................................................................................ 25
SLOTS..................................................................................................................................................... 26
SLOT CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................. 26
SLOT INTERVAL ................................................................................................................................ 26
JOURNEY DURATION OPTION FOR SLOT & SUMMARY INTERVALS ......................................... 27
EVENTS .................................................................................................................................................. 27
RECORD ............................................................................................................................................. 27
LENGTH .............................................................................................................................................. 28
MAX TIME ........................................................................................................................................... 28
ORDERED DATA ................................................................................................................................ 28
AUTO THRESHOLDS......................................................................................................................... 28
THRESHOLDS .................................................................................................................................... 29
UNDERSTANDING THRESHOLD LEVELS ....................................................................................... 30
SLOT ALARMS ....................................................................................................................................... 31
GRMS (VIBRATION)........................................................................................................................... 31
ACCELERATION (SHOCKLOG 208 ONLY) ...................................................................................... 31
ENVIRONMENT .................................................................................................................................. 32
T&R ALARMS ......................................................................................................................................... 32
FINISH..................................................................................................................................................... 33
SAVING SETUP FILE ............................................................................................................................. 33
SENDING SETUP TO SHOCKLOG ....................................................................................................... 33
MONITORING & DOWNLOADING A SHOCKLOG .................................................................................... 34
STATUS LEDS ........................................................................................................................................ 34
USB COMMUNICATION......................................................................................................................... 34
RF COMMUNICATIONS ......................................................................................................................... 35
RADIO DOCKABLE WINDOW ........................................................................................................... 35
OVERVIEW OF SOFTWARE SCREENS ................................................................................................... 37
FILE VIEWER WINDOW......................................................................................................................... 37
REPORT ................................................................................................................................................. 37
EXPLORER WINDOW ............................................................................................................................ 37
RECORD TABLE .................................................................................................................................... 37
EVENT TABLE ........................................................................................................................................ 38

       

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COMMUNICATIONS WINDOW .............................................................................................................. 39

VIEW SETUP RECORD ......................................................................................................................... 39
SLOT BREAKS GRID ............................................................................................................................. 39
ANALYZING THE SHOCKLOG DATA ....................................................................................................... 41
REPORT ................................................................................................................................................. 41
DATA FILE SUMMARY....................................................................................................................... 41
SUMMARY OF EVENTS .................................................................................................................... 42
REPORT TIME PERIOD SELECTOR ................................................................................................ 42
SLOT GRAPH ..................................................................................................................................... 43
SLOT GRAPH SELECTION................................................................................................................ 44
EVENT DATA GRAPHS ..................................................................................................................... 45
EVENT SUMMARY GRAPH ............................................................................................................... 45
DETAILED EVENT CURVE ................................................................................................................ 46
DRAG ‘N’ ZOOM ................................................................................................................................. 46
SETTINGS .............................................................................................................................................. 47
SLOTS..................................................................................................................................................... 48
SELECT SLOTS ................................................................................................................................. 50
TILT & ROLL ....................................................................................................................................... 50
DRAG ‘N’ ZOOM ................................................................................................................................. 50
ZOOM ALL .......................................................................................................................................... 50
SHOW EVENTS .................................................................................................................................. 50
EXPORT.............................................................................................................................................. 51
SLOT ALARMS ....................................................................................................................................... 52
SUMMARIES........................................................................................................................................... 52
COLUMN DATA .................................................................................................................................. 52
SORTING SUMMARY DATA .............................................................................................................. 53
SHOW EVENTS .................................................................................................................................. 53
SHOW SLOTS .................................................................................................................................... 54
EXPORT.............................................................................................................................................. 54
SELECT COLUMNS ........................................................................................................................... 55
EVENTS .................................................................................................................................................. 55
TEXT DATA......................................................................................................................................... 55
DRAG ‘N’ ZOOM ................................................................................................................................. 56
ZOOM ALL .......................................................................................................................................... 57
SHOW SLOTS .................................................................................................................................... 57

       

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SHOW DATA....................................................................................................................................... 58
EXPORT.............................................................................................................................................. 59
GRAPH SCALING ............................................................................................................................... 59
FILTERS.............................................................................................................................................. 59
USER EXERCISE: DESKTOP TEST ......................................................................................................... 61
CONNECTING THE SHOCKLOG TO A PC ........................................................................................... 61
COMMUNICATIONS WINDOW .............................................................................................................. 61
SEND DEFAULT SETUP ........................................................................................................................ 61
DROP TEST ............................................................................................................................................ 62
DOWNLOAD THE DATA ........................................................................................................................ 62
VIEW FILE............................................................................................................................................... 63
IBUTTON COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................................................. 63
READ ...................................................................................................................................................... 63
PASSWORDS ......................................................................................................................................... 64
IBUTTON PASSWORDS ........................................................................................................................ 64
SHOCKLOG PASSWORDS ................................................................................................................... 65
PROGRAM .............................................................................................................................................. 65
SETTING UP SHOCKLOG PASSWORDS............................................................................................. 66
IBUTTON USAGE ................................................................................................................................... 67
SECURITY LOG ..................................................................................................................................... 68
MULTIPLE FILE EXPORT .......................................................................................................................... 69
DATABASE MANIPULATION ..................................................................................................................... 69
EXPLORER WINDOW ............................................................................................................................ 69
RECORDS TABLE .................................................................................................................................. 70
COLUMN DATA .................................................................................................................................. 70
FILE SORTING ................................................................................................................................... 70
HYPERLINK TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ................................................................................. 70
EVENT TABLE ........................................................................................................................................ 71
COLUMN DATA .................................................................................................................................. 71
FILE SORTING ................................................................................................................................... 71
HYPERLINK TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ................................................................................. 72
MENU OPTIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 72
FILE MENU ............................................................................................................................................. 72
NEW .................................................................................................................................................... 72
OPEN .................................................................................................................................................. 72

       

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IMPORT .............................................................................................................................................. 73
IMPORT OF LEGACY DATA FILES ................................................................................................... 73
EXPORT.............................................................................................................................................. 74
EXPORT GPS DATA .......................................................................................................................... 75
DELETE .............................................................................................................................................. 75
REPORT ............................................................................................................................................. 75
PRINT.................................................................................................................................................. 76
TOOLS MENU ........................................................................................................................................ 76
GRAPH / UNIT OPTIONS ................................................................................................................... 76
DATA PATHS ...................................................................................................................................... 77
COMMUNICATION PORT .................................................................................................................. 77
COMPACT AND REPAIR DATABASE ............................................................................................... 78
EXPORT CURRENT RECORD AS A DATABASE............................................................................. 78
RESTORE DEFAULT SETTINGS ...................................................................................................... 78
SAVE CURRENT SETTINGS ............................................................................................................. 78
RESTORE SAVED SETTINGS........................................................................................................... 78
UNIT RADIO SETUP .......................................................................................................................... 78
READ LAST GPS DATA ..................................................................................................................... 78
CREATE EDIT USER SETUP LIST .................................................................................................... 78
VIEW MENU............................................................................................................................................ 79
WINDOWS MENU .................................................................................................................................. 79
HELP MENU ........................................................................................................................................... 79 
 

   

       

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INTRODUCTION   

Welcome to the range of ShockLog products. This manual has been designed to provide useful
information to all levels of users from new users to those expert users of the legacy ShockLog products.

The ShockLog Training Manual has been written to address the full range of ShockLog products. While
many of the pictures will include references to the ShockLog 298, they are equally applicable to the
ShockLog 248 and ShockLog 208 ranges. Please note that some features are only available on the
ShockLog 298.

PRODUCT INTRODUCTION 

ShockLog recorders are small battery-powered data loggers with three built-in piezoelectric
accelerometers and an internal temperature sensor. The design is optimized for the measurement of
shock and vibration for investigative and protective purposes of goods in transit and storage throughout
the supply chan.

The latest generation of ShockLog products and the new software is fully backward compatible to the
previous generation, including the mounting hole sizes, location and template.

The ShockLog is suitable for applications where the cost of exposure to out of tolerance
impact/environmental conditions is high. It is suitable for monitoring high-value fixed or mobile
installations and investigating conditions during transport, storage or operation.

       

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SHOCKLOG 298  

The ShockLog 298 combines advanced tri-axial piezoelectric accelerometer technology, the latest
electronic technology and software into a world-class shock and vibration recorder.

The ShockLog 298 monitors shock and vibration based on acceleration or velocity measurements.

The comprehensive Windows-based software allows the wake up, warning and alarm levels, frequency of
data collection, setting of the acceleration or velocity range and cut-off frequency of the filter to be
programmed by the user. When a user-defined impact level is exceeded, a visual alarm will alert the user
and store the data for future analysis.

Features:

 Complete journey profile  Tamperproof factory and user passwords

 Acceleration or velocity measurements  Completely self-contained (battery-operated)
 Adjustable warning and alarm thresholds  Low-cost standard AA size lithium or alkaline
 Detailed record of up to 870 events  Custom BUS communication facility
 Tri-axial accelerometers  RF screened and CE certified
 Built-in internal temperature sensor  Optional built-in external temperature and humidity sensor
 User-selected frequency cut off  Optional temperature, humidity, pressure sensor
 LED operation, warning and alarm status indicators  Optional built-in tilt and roll sensor
 USB and iButton communication interface  Optional ZigBee RF communication module
 Date and time stamping  Optional built-in GPS communication module
 Data stored in non-volatile memory  Optional eTrak GPS near real time reporting system
 Up to 18-month battery life

       

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SHOCKLOG 248  

The ShockLog 248 combines advanced tri-axial piezoelectric accelerometer technology, the latest
electronic technology and software into an advanced shock and vibration recorder.

The ShockLog 248 monitors shock based on acceleration measurements. The comprehensive Windows-
based software allows the wake up and alarm levels and frequency of data collection to be programmed
by the user. When a user-defined impact level is exceeded, a visual alarm will alert the user and store the
data for future analysis.

Features:

 Complete journey profile  USB and iButton communication interface

 Acceleration measurements  Date and time stamping
 Adjustable alarm thresholds  Data stored in non-volatile memory
 Detailed record 1st plus 14 most significant events  Tamperproof factory and user passwords
 Tri-axial accelerometers  Completely self-contained (battery-operated)
 100G / 250Hz, 30G / 90 Hz or 10G / 40 Hz models  Low-cost standard AA size lithium or alkaline
 Built-in internal temperature sensor  RF screened and CE certified
 LED operation and alarm status indicators  Optional built-in temperature and humidity sensors
 Up to 12-month battery life

       

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SHOCKLOG 208  

The ShockLog 208 combines advanced tri-axial piezoelectric accelerometer technology, sophisticated
electronics and software into an advanced shock monitoring recorder. However, the ShockLog 208
records time slot data only.

The ShockLog 208 monitors shock based on acceleration measurements. The comprehensive Windows-
based software program allows the user to program the ShockLog 208 for frequency of data collection,
which relates to how often the sensor data is captured. The user is also able to define slot alarm
conditions to capture out of tolerance conditions.

Features:

 Low-cost, entry solution  USB and iButton communication interface

 Acceleration measurements  Data stored in non-volatile memory
 Adjustable alarm thresholds  Tamperproof factory and user passwords
 100G / 250Hz, 30G / 90 Hz or 10G / 40 Hz models  Completely self-contained (battery-operated)
 Tri-axial accelerometers  Low-cost standard AA size lithium or alkaline
 Built-in internal temperature sensor  Up to 12-month battery life
 LED operation and alarm status indicators  RF screened and CE certified
 Date and time stamping  Optional built-in temperature and humidity sensors

       

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OVERVIEW OF ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS 

A benefit of the ShockLog product line is the availability of accessories that enable additional information
to be gathered. The ShockLog 298 allows the user to leverage investments made in RD298 accessories
since many of the accessories are compatible with both the legacy product line and the latest ShockLog
298 product.

SHOCKLOG ACCESSORY KIT  

First-time users of a ShockLog recorder are required to purchase an accessory kit in order to receive all
of the necessary communication cables and software licenses needed to operate the ShockLog.

The ShockLog 298 and 248 accessory kits are housed in a rugged, plastic carrying case. The ShockLog
208 accessory kit is housed in a carrying box. It is recommended that the case/box be used for storing
and transporting the ShockLog when not in use.

The ShockLog accessory kit contains the following items:

1 - ShockLog Software CD (Containing software and user manual)
1 - Quick Start Manual
1 - USB Communication Cable
2 - AA Lithium Batteries
1 - iButton Set (START, STOP, DOWNLOAD, SETUP and CLOCK) – 298 & 248 only
1 - iButton USB Connection BUS and Cable – 298 & 248 only

Each ShockLog unit is shipped with batteries, mounting kit and a companion label.

In the unlikely event that any of the above items are missing when the kit is received, please immediately
inform your ShockWatch Regional Manager or local distributor to arrange for a replacement.

HPT (HUMIDITY PRESSURE TEMPERATURE) SENSOR 

The HPT sensor measures humidity, pressure and temperature. It enables any version of the ShockLog
298 to monitor an extended range of environmental factors. The HPT meets the requirements for IP30
and is capable of operating at temperatures between -40 and +85°C. An optional extension cable is
available for applications where the HPT must be mounted remotely from the recorder. A bulkhead
adapter is required when using the extension cable.

SHOCKLOG 298 TILT AND ROLL 

The Tilt & Roll feature extends the monitoring capabilities of the ShockLog 298 beyond impact and
vibration to include tilt & sway. Users have the capability to monitor and measure the entire physical
environment during a journey or storage period. The ShockLog software includes two additional time slot
graphs in order to provide a graphical representation of the tilt and roll activity recorded. The additional
graphs show the Tilt (front to back) and Roll (left to right) movement of the unit and are represented as
degrees of movement. The data is recorded and displayed in a range of ±180°. Reaching 180° indicates
full turn over.

       

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SHOCKLOG 298 GPS  

The ShockLog 298 is available with a built-in GPS receiver that records the GPS position of the unit at
every summary interval and when an event occurs. The receiver / antenna must have line of site visibility
to GPS satellites to record such information.

Data files with GPS information will be displayed with additional columns in both the summary table and
the events table. The additional columns include:

 GPS Time and Date  Globe Icon (Link to Google Maps)

 GPS Latitude  GPS Velocity
 GPS Longitude  GPS Course (COG)

SHOCKLOG 298 RF  

The ShockLog 298 is available with a built-in ZigBee RF module. This system allows a user to transmit
setup information to the ShockLog and receive full data downloads from the ShockLog. An RF base
station connected to a PC running the ShockLog software allows for wireless communication between the
ShockLog and PC.

ETRAK GPS/GPRS TRACKING & COMMUNICATION MODULE 

eTrak is a tracking device that enables the ShockLog 298 to remotely report alarm conditions. The eTrak
incorporates GPS and quad band GSM technology. The units are powered by a solar panel and backed
up by a battery capable of providing over 12 months of monitoring without exposure to sunlight.
Messages are sent via the GPRS network and delivered in email format. The messages are interpreted
by the eTrak software and converted to location data which can be reviewed in Google Earth. If a GPRS
network is not available, the eTrak system automatically reverts to SMS and sends an appropriate
message to a network provider that forwards an email to the user’s computer.

GETTING STARTED 

The ShockLog manual applies to ShockLog software version 10.4.0.0 and greater and is to be used in
conjunction with all ShockLog units (298, 248 and 208 products). It also applies to most legacy ShockLog
ranges including the RD298 ShockLog with embedded code version 103 or higher and RD317 Micro
ShockLog units with embedded code version 103 or higher. While other combinations of the software and
embedded code versions of a lower number should function in a similar manner, there may be some
exceptions.

IDENTIFYING SOFTWARE VERSIONS 

To determine which version of ShockLog software is installed,

start the software, look under the “Help” menu option at the top
of the screen and select “About”. In this case the
version is 10.4.0.0, release date 2014. 

   

       

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IDENTIFYING HARDWARE VERSIONS 

The hardware version of the ShockLog is displayed in the “Communications” dockable window. The
communication information is only updated when a ShockLog is connected to your PC. In this case, the
code version is 21.
 

SHOCKLOG SOFTWARE INSTALLATION 

To get started with the ShockLog, the first step is to install the software. Please note that many IT
systems prevent individual users from installing software on their machines or users may have restricted
rights. Therefore, it is essential that you consult your IT Department to ensure you have sufficient rights
to install the software. The ShockLog software has been designed to run on a standard PC under
Windows XP, Vista, 7 or 8. All of these operating systems require administration rights to install the
software.

Insert the CD into the CD/DVD player on your PC. The set-up process should run automatically. If for any
reason the set-up program does not automatically run, go to the Start menu and in Run, enter
V:\shocklogsetup.exe (where V:\ is the CD/DVD driver on the PC) and open the program from there.

Enter your name, company name and the unique serial code
supplied with the ShockLog CD. The code can be found
inside the CD software case. The code will begin with “SW.”
Once the appropriate information and a valid code have been
entered, click “OK”

If Microsoft.NET Framework and Microsoft Access are not installed, the following steps will be executed.
A new window will appear displaying the Microsoft.NET end user license agreement, click “Accept”.

The installation will continue and the system will install components from the CD for the Access Database
Engine. Click “Install” to continue.

       

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The Microsoft Access database engine installation wizard will run next. Click “Next” to continue. 

Accept the Microsoft Access End User License Agreement terms. 

The Access database location is set up next. Click “Install” to continue. 

Click “OK” to complete the setup of the Access Database. 

Microsoft.net Framework will install next.

       

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After Microsoft.NET Framework and Access have been installed, the installation of the ShockLog
software will begin automatically. A ShockLog Setup Wizard will install the ShockLog software on your
computer. Click “Next” to start the installation. 

A new window detailing the end user license agreement required to utilize the software will appear. The
user must accept the terms of the software by selecting “I accept the terms in the License Agreement”.
Click “Next” to continue.

Next, another ShockLog Setup window will prompt the user for the product options to install. Verify that
both “Create a shortcut for this program on the desktop” and “Install Software Update Utility” is checked.
Click “Next” to continue. 

Users can select the location of the software installation. However, it is recommended that the default
settings be accepted.

To change the directory address, either type over the information in the box or browse for the desired
directory by selecting the “Change” button. Once you have selected the desired directory, click on the
“Next” button.

A window stating “Ready to install the ShockLog” software will appear. Click “Install” to continue.

       

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The system will begin the installation of the ShockLog software. At this stage a number of progress bar
windows will appear. A Microsoft software installation warning stating that the software has not been
verified for compatibility to Windows XP will appear. Click on the “Continue anyway” button. The same
window will appear a second time. Click on the ‘Continue anyway’ button. When asked to install Maxim
and The IMC Group drivers, click “Install”.

Once the system has fully installed, a “Completed the ShockLog Setup Wizard” window will appear. Click
“Finish” to complete the installation.

The ShockLog software is now loaded and the computer should be back at the Desktop view. In order to
create a shortcut on the Desktop, right click on the Start menu and select the “Explore” option.

The ShockLog programs will have been copied into the following directory:
c:\ProgramData\ShockLogSoftware\ShockLog or it will be installed in the destination directory specified
earlier in the setup process. 

Right click on the ShockLog program icon and select “Create Shortcut”. Once the shortcut has been
created, it can be dragged onto the Desktop.

To open the ShockLog software, double click on the shortcut icon from the Desktop. When first attaching
the ShockLog unit to the PC, it will be necessary to install new USB drivers in order for the PC to
communicate with the ShockLog. After connecting the ShockLog to the PC via the USB cable, a “Found
New Hardware Wizard” window will appear. To the question, “Can Windows connect to Windows Update
to search for software?” it is essential that the user select “No, not this time” to prevent the system from
going to the Microsoft website to find the drivers.

Click “Next” and a second “Found New Hardware Wizard” window will appear.

Select “Install the software automatically (Recommended)” and click “Next”.

A window with a Microsoft software installation warning stating that the software has not been verified for
compatibility to Windows XP will appear. Click “Continue anyway”.

The appropriate drivers now will be loaded on the PC and will allow the ShockLog device to communicate
with the ShockLog Software.

If the drivers do not load correctly, it may be necessary to return to this window and select “Install from a
list or specific location (Advanced).” Browse the PC to find the appropriate drivers within the ShockLog
directory.
       

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If the ShockLog does not connect after successfully loading the drivers, please check the communication
ports are correct. The port settings are found in the “Tools” menu under Communication Properties.
These settings are only relevant to legacy ShockLog products.

AUTOMATIC CHECK FOR UPDATES 

The ShockLog software has a built-in facility to automatically check the internet for the latest version of
software. When installing the software, users will be given the option of enabling this feature by the use of
a check box. Should you wish to change this option after installation, select the “Help” menu. Users are
able to turn this on or off with the “check for updates” option.

LANGUAGE SUPPORT 

The ShockLog software is multilingual. Upon installation, it will detect the country settings within the
Windows files and select the appropriate language. Where no translation is available, the system will
default to English.

If after installation, a user wishes to view different language settings, it is possible to select the desired
language in the dropdown menu in the Graph and Unit Options under the Tools menu. The software’s
language also can be changed.

BATTERIES  

All ShockLog units operate with AA size batteries. Either 1.5V Alkaline or 3.6V Lithium cells are
acceptable. (Do not attempt to operate the ShockLog with a mixture of Alkaline and Lithium batteries).
The ShockLog 298 unit requires two batteries, and the ShockLog 248 & 208 units require one.

Two (2) AA size lithium batteries are supplied with a ShockLog. It is highly recommended that lithium
batteries be used whenever possible as they will provide a greater service life across a wider temperature
range. The use of alkaline batteries is recommended only on very short journeys or for experiments
where the ambient temperature is fairly constant.

Battery Tips 

Always use lithium batteries for journeys where the temperature may be outside the ‐5°C 
to  +50°C  range.  The  capacity  of  alkaline  batteries  drops  dramatically  when  exposed  to 
temperatures below 10°C.  

If using a lithium battery and the ShockLog will be traveling by air, make sure the battery is 
approved for air cargo.  

If the batteries are accidentally installed with the wrong polarity, the ShockLog will not be 
damaged; however, the life of the battery may be severely affected. 
 

       

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Installing the Batteries

The battery compartment is located on the back of the ShockLog
unit. (ShockLog 298 shown to right).

Remove the four screws and lift the battery cover clear.

Ensure the orientation of the batteries is correct and insert them

into the ShockLog unit.

Both batteries are oriented in the same direction; the positive terminal for both batteries is at the
same end of the ShockLog unit. 

Ensure the rubber seal is correctly positioned, replace the

battery cover and insert the four screws. Care should be taken
when securing the lid. Ensure the screws are tightened evenly
in a diagonal rotation and tightened to 25cNm torque (hand
tight).

All ShockLog units are rated to IP67. The battery compartment has been isolated from the 
main body of the ShockLog unit and a poor fitting of the battery cover will not dramatically 
affect  the  IP  rating  of  the  main  unit.  However,  if  there  is  water  ingress  into  the  battery 
compartment,  the  batteries  are  likely  to  short  and  cause  corrosion  of  the  battery 
terminals. If this corrosion occurs, the ShockLog will not function correctly, and the unit will 
need to be returned to the factory for repair. 

SETTING UP THE SHOCKLOG 298 GPS (OPTIONAL ADD‐ON)  

If you have a ShockLog 298 unit with the optional built-in GPS receiver, instructions for setting up the unit
follow:

1. Once the batteries have been installed in the ShockLog GPS unit, place it outdoors with a clear
line of sight to the sky for 10 minutes.
2. Create a setup in the software and ensure that “GPS module” is checked under the “Firmware
Options” tab. (Instructions for producing a setup file are found later in this manual in the section
titled “Creating a Setup File”.)
3. Configure the ShockLog GPS unit by either writing the setup to an iButton and taking it outdoors
to configure the unit or taking a laptop outside to configure the unit. Configuring the unit must be
done outside with a clear line of sight to the sky so that it can acquire the proper satellites.

It is important to remember that during operation the unit must have clear line of sight to 
the sky in order to track the GPS coordinates. 

       

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SHOCKLOG MOUNTING RECOMMENDATIONS 

The ShockLog should always be mounted to a solid, rigid surface when available. Whenever possible, it
is recommended that the unit be mounted directly to the product being monitored using all four mounting
bolts included with the ShockLog, as shown in Figure A. A drill template can be used for determining the
spacing of the mounting holes to be drilled.

If you do not wish to drill holes in your product, mounting plates are available that have been predrilled for
the four isolation bushings provided in the mounting kit. Alternatively, it is possible to use an aggressive
adhesive or double-sided tape.

If mounting inside packaging or crates, the ShockLog should be secured with mounting screws or foam.
The ShockLog should not be able to move inside the shipment.

Mount as low as possible, but it is more important to be nearest to the most sensitive part of your product.
When monitoring long shipments (>20 feet / 6 meters), it is best to mount a ShockLog at both ends of the
shipment 

Avoid building special brackets to mount the ShockLog. If a cover is required over the ShockLog, place
the cover over the ShockLog, but do not attach the cover to the ShockLog.

The ShockLog assumes the axes indicated on the unit. Mount the ShockLog either vertically or
horizontally and note the orientation. Variation from the orientation of the ShockLog should be noted in
order to assist with data analysis at the end of the journey.

OPENING THE SOFTWARE & INITIAL LAYOUT SETUP 

To get started, the software

can either be opened by
double clicking the
ShockLog shortcut icon or
by selecting the ShockLog
program from the Start
menu. 

When the software first

opens you will be presented
with a “File Viewer” window
in addition to a “dockable”
Explorer window on the left
and another dockable
window in the bottom of the
screen containing tabs for
the Record Table and
Events Table.

       

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The ShockLog user

interface has a
variety of dockable
windows that allow
the user to view
information of
interest. These
windows make it
easy for users to
move around in the
journey data files.
Move each dockable
window by clicking
the left mouse
button and holding.
Drag the window
around and notice that small window icons appear at the left, right, top and bottom of the screen. As the
windows are moved closer to one of these icons, it will highlight in green where the window will sit.

All of the dockable windows work in any position. However, the Explorer window generally works better
in either of the left/right vertical positions, whereas the Record and Event Table windows are better suited
to the top/bottom horizontal positions. 

It is possible to dock more than one window in the same location. The software displays an additional
icon with a series of tabs to move between the windows.

When trying to dock two windows in the same location, icons either left and right or top and bottom of the
current window are displayed.

If one of these options is selected, both windows will be displayed side by side. This side by side display
is only possible for two windows in any one position. If attempts are made to add additional windows, the
tab system must be utilized.

When the dockable windows are in the desired locations, adjust the size of each window by dragging the
border of each window. Adjust the window size in order to maximize the available screen area for the File
Viewer. Windows can be moved and adjusted at any time.

The position of the docked windows can be saved so they are in the same location when exiting and
entering the ShockLog system. From the Tools menu, select “Save Current Settings”. Once this has been
done, a confirmation window will appear.

       

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For demonstration purposes, a number of files are included in the database installed with the ShockLog
software. These files are shown in the Explorer and Record view. Click on one of the available files and
the Summary Report will be displayed in the File Viewer. The demonstration files may be deleted at any
time.

With a file open, it is possible to explore the information available from the File Viewer screen. Notice the
six tabs along the top of the viewer. These tabs link to more detailed information relating to the open file
record. The information includes:
• Report • Slot Alarms
• Settings • Summaries
• Slots • Events

Users  have  the  ability  to  view  or  hide  the  Home  tab  with  the  “View  Home  Tab”  option  in  the 
“View” menu at the top of the screen.  

CREATING A SETUP FILE 
 

SELECT MODEL OR FILE 

To create or modify a setup file, go to the “View” menu at the top of

the screen and select “Setup.” A new window will appear listing the
available ShockLog models.

The user will select a ShockLog model and create a setup file or
open and modify an existing file that has been created in the past.

The ShockLog model selected will affect the options available in

the setup screens. Certain features are only available on certain
models. 

To open an existing file, select the ShockLog model of interest and

click the “Load File” button. A list of available setup files related to
the selected model will be shown. Highlight the desired file and
click on “Open.”

To create a new setup, click “New Setup”.

The “Current File” button allows you to interrogate a connected

ShockLog to determine what setup has been loaded into the unit.

       

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SETUP WINDOW 

When the appropriate ShockLog model has been selected or the desired setup file has been opened, a
new window will appear.

The setup window has a series of tabs that guide the user through the available options for the selected
ShockLog model. The software requires that the user complete the appropriate areas. For a new setup,
the system will adopt a default setting and complete some sections. The user must step through every
window and modify the settings or select “Continue.” Guiding the user to step through every window for a
new setup ensures that all the options have been considered and reduces the chance for a setup error.

FIRMWARE OPTIONS 

The first tab in the Setup screen is “Firmware Options.” This section defines what factory or peripheral
accessories are being used with the selected ShockLog. If the options are grayed out and selected, they
are default options and cannot be changed. If they are grayed out without being selected, the options are
not available for the selected ShockLog.

Standard Options
gRMS (Vibration) – Users have the option to record the gRMS values within the time slot graphs,
allowing users to see the vibration levels throughout a given time slot period. When measuring
gRMS, it is required that the 250Hz filter be selected. This selection is done automatically by the
software. More details on filter settings will follow.

Factory Options
 External RH/T – Relates to the ShockLog 298, 248 and 208 with the factory optional Temperature
and Humidity sensor added.
 External RH (RD317 only) – Relates to the Legacy RD317 Micro ShockLog with the factory
optional Temperature and Humidity sensor added.
 Internal Tilt/Roll – Relates to the ShockLog 298 with the factory optional sensor added to detect
tilt & roll.
 GPS Module – Refers to ShockLog 298 with optional GPS module to record GPS coordinates of
an impact and coordinates when a time slot summary is made.
 RF Communications – Relates to the ShockLog 298 with the factory optional ZigBee radio
module being added to transmit data files wirelessly in a stationary environment.

       

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Peripherals
Optional accessories may be added to the ShockLog setup.
 RD299 HPT – Humidity, Pressure, Temperature Sensor
 RD400 Remote Accelerometer – Legacy product supported by ShockLog RD298
– recorded single access acceleration in a location remote from the ShockLog.
 RD401 Remote Indicator – Legacy product supported by ShockLog RD298 –
brought alarm warning lights to a location away from the ShockLog.
 RD404 Tilt & Roll – Legacy product – external tilt and roll accelerometer
 eTrak GPS / GPRS Tracking – Accessory to provide near-real time impact
notification and GPS coordinates
 External – Custom connection; discuss additional input requirements with your
ShockWatch representative.
 
Click the box for any options that will be utilized with the ShockLog, then click “Continue.”

RD401
These settings are available for a customized legacy solution from ShockWatch. They are not
supported by the ShockLog 298, 248, or 208.

iButton Password
Users are able to create password protection in the iButton system. These passwords prevent
unauthorized users from interfering with the ShockLog through the iButton interface. To create
password protection on the iButton interface, users program the ShockLog with their own
password (up to 8 characters in length and case sensitive). Any iButton used to communicate
with the ShockLog must be programmed with the same password. Otherwise, the ShockLog
ignores the iButton.

The password is created by clicking in the Password box and typing in the password. The
password is confirmed by typing in the confirm box. The confirmation password must be exactly
the same as the original password.

SETTINGS 

The Settings window allows the user to select the protocol, create setup name, enter mission comment
and set start date.

       

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Setup Name
Users are able to name their setup and save it as a unique file for future use. With a new setup
the word “Default” will be in the setup name field. The user must change this name before they
are able to save the setup, send it to a ShockLog unit or move onto the next stage of the setup
process.

If you have a setup you want to use as the preferred setup, make this the user default by going to 
the  options  screen,  double  clicking  on  the  user  default  setup  box  and  selecting  your  setup  file 
name. 

Start Date
If the user would like the ShockLog unit to begin monitoring at a future date/time, click on the right
hand arrow to bring up a calendar selector and select the desired date. If the unit should start
recording at a specific time, it is possible to set the start time as required. The start time will be +/-
10 minutes of the specified start time.

This  feature  is  useful  when  the  ShockLog  is  being  set  up at  a  location  different  from where  the 
shipment will originate. 

It  is  possible  to  start  the  ShockLog  sooner  than  the  Start  Date  by  clicking  “Start”  in  the 
Communications Window.  This action will override the delayed start, and the ShockLog will begin 
recording immediately. The “Start” iButton being applied to the reader port will also override the 
delayed start and begin the recording. 

Mission Comment
Users can add notes to the setup file and these notes will be recorded by the ShockLog. These
comments will be displayed on the Report screen when the file is downloaded.

Protocol
Protocol 400 is the appropriate setting unless the RF module is installed and being used. If the
ShockLog has an RF module installed, P400 and ZigBee should automatically set. Verify the
correct protocol when using the ShockLog 298 RF unit.

       

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SLOTS 

Slots are user-defined periods of time in which various criteria will be recorded.

Slot Contents
Slot contents define the criteria to be recorded in the Slots graphs. Select the parameters of
interest by clicking the appropriate boxes. The four default settings are max peak x, y, z and
internal temperature. Depending on the configuration of the ShockLog, the available slots include
max / min peak for the three axes, temperature, humidity, dew point, pressure, tilt and roll.
Setting threshold limits for these values will be done in the Slot Alarms and T&R alarms sections.

Selecting  additional  parameters  will  decrease  the  amount  of  time  in  which  data  can  be 
recorded.  Only select parameters that are of interest in order to maximize recording time 
available. 

Slot Interval
The Slot Interval defines how often a time slot will be recorded. The window below the Slot
Interval setting will show how long the maximum number of slots and run time based on the
setting.

Battery life is not affected by time slot frequency.  

It is advisable to always select a time slot interval that will last longer than the expected 
journey length. 

       

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Summary Interval

Summaries provide an overview of what was recorded by the ShockLog in a given period of time
(the summary interval). A summary records the number of warnings/alarms and the recorded
maximum slot values in the summary interval. The Summary Interval allows the user to set the
time period between each summary period.

Battery life is not affected by summary interval setting. 

It  is  advisable  to  always  select  a  summary  interval  that  will  last  longer  than  the  expected 
journey length. 

Journey Duration Option for Slot & Summary Intervals

The Journey Duration button allows users to select the expected journey length, and the
ShockLog will automatically optimize the slot and summary intervals settings.

It is important for users to allow for potential delays during the journey or through customs.  
The journey duration should always be set slightly longer than the expected journey length to 
prevent the possibility of losing end of journey information   

EVENTS 

Impacts above the user-defined threshold are defined as events. The Events section allows the user to
define the criteria to be considered when recording a potentially damaging event.

Record
This section allows users to specify the resolution / memory to be allocated to each event. From
the resolution and memory setting, the number of recorded events is calculated by the software.

       

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Length
The more memory allocated to an event, the more points the event graph will display, and the
higher the event resolution will be. The ShockLog always records 4096 samples per second.
However, the ShockLog will compress saved data according to the how long the event is as
defined by the event settings. The peak of an event will not be lost when data is compressed as
the ShockLog always keeps the max & min samples of each compressed data section.

Generally, it is desirable to log detailed events when damage may have occurred to the shipment.  

Settings that allow for the maximum amount of events are not always advisable.   

The  user  must  determine  if  having  fewer,  more  detailed  events  or  more  events  with  less 
resolution is more desirable. 

Remember that a time slot graph capturing the max peak in a time slot is produced for the entire 
journey. 

Max Time
The maximum length of any recorded event. All events are recorded for at least 1 second. The
longer the event, the more the data will be compressed. In certain situations, it may be desirable
for the ShockLog to record the full length of an event (potentially up to 128 seconds). If this is the
case, the “Always Max” box must be selected. In general, this setting is only used in a test
environment, as most impact events are less than 1 second in duration.

Unless there is a specific reason to do so, do not use the Always Max setting. Let the ShockLog
decide when the event has finished by the dropout threshold. The dropout threshold is covered in
the next section.

Ordered Data
Unless Always Max is selected, the ShockLog will record events in an uncompressed format
displaying the full 4096 samples per second.

Auto Thresholds
Enabling this feature allows the unit to function in auto threshold mode. Select the desired reset
time interval from the dropdown menu. Thresholds are explained in the next section.

       

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Thresholds

Range ‘g’ or ‘Velocity’

The range setting sets the maximum g-level to be recorded by the ShockLog. To set the ‘g’
range, click the drop down menu to view all the possible ranges (1, 3, 10, 30, 100 & 200). The
ShockLog 298 has the ability to record in velocity; this will automatically occur if a range in cm/s is
selected. However, most users are interested in g-range.

Selecting  the  range  is  a  very  important  part  of  the  ShockLog  setup.  Be  aware  of 
what impact levels are of interest. Do not assume if the ShockLog is set to the 100g 
range  everything  will  be  recorded.  In  this  scenario,  the  resolution  will  be 
compromised  and  low  level  events  may  not  be  recorded  at  all.  The  wake  up 
threshold for a detailed event must be at least 5% of range (and recommended to 
be no less than 10%). On a 100g range, events lower than 10g with a 10% wake up 
threshold will not be recorded. 

Hardware Filter
After the range is selected, set the frequency cut off of the hardware filters to be applied to the
event data. These filters enable users to reduce the number of unwanted higher frequency events
where it is known that this type of event will not cause damage to the object being monitored.

The lower the filter frequency, the more severe it is in eliminating events. The lower frequency
filters are generally used for large heavy objects with a high metallic content, especially where the
object is prone to high levels of resonance. These resonances will create a “bell-like” ring that a
ShockLog can detect as a high g event if the appropriate filters are not applied. Filters are
recommended in environments where a high frequency vibration is probable such as rail freight
applications. The correct use of filters can eliminate any unwanted events being recorded. If
gRMS is to be recorded, the frequency filter must be set to 250Hz.

Options
The user selects one of four modes for the thresholds.

Basic – The default setting is “Basic”. The Warning level and the Alarm level can be adjusted by
the user. The wakeup and dropout levels are set automatically in the software based on the
warning level selected.

Multiple – Allows the user to set all four thresholds (wake, warning, alarm, and dropout). The
user is also able to adjust the thresholds for each axis independently.

Link XYZ - All of the axes operate off of the same thresholds.

Timed Events - Allows users to record a detailed event at the end of every summary period. This
setting is not dependent on thresholds being breached. Timed Events is an option for the
ShockLog 298 only.

       

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Understanding Threshold Levels

The threshold settings determine what level of impact will cause the ShockLog to wake up, the levels at
which a warning or alarm is created, and the dropout level of the event. The simple bar chart below can
best explain these thresholds.

It is not desirable for the ShockLog to constantly be awake due to low level vibration caused by the mode
of transport. The ShockLog uses 100 times more battery power when it is recording at higher resolutions
than when it is monitoring peak time slot values for wakeup thresholds. The ShockLog can easily see 0.5
to 1g of activity when being transported in a car on normal roads. .

If any accelerometer activity exceeds the wake up threshold, the ShockLog will start recording
accelerometer data at a faster rate. The ShockLog takes 0.25 msec to start recording higher resolution
data once the wake up threshold has been exceeded. If the activity does not exceed the warning level
and drops below the wake up threshold, the ShockLog will go back to monitoring time slot peaks. An
event will not be recorded.

When the wake up threshold and the warning levels have been breached, the ShockLog will record a
detailed event and flag it as a warning. The same logic is applied when the alarm threshold level is
breached. The ShockLog will record a detailed event and flag it as an alarm.

Once the event activity has dropped below the drop out threshold (or reached the maximum allowed
event length), the ShockLog will stop the dynamic event recording and go back to monitoring peak values
during time slots.

“Wake”
The level at which the ShockLog will wake up and begin recording. The wake up threshold should
be set to approximately 80% of the warning level.

It is not advisable to use wake up or drop out thresholds of less than 10%. However, it is 
possible to set levels down to 5% if necessary. 

       

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“Warn and Alarm”

Warning and alarm events are recorded in exactly the same way. The thresholds distinguish how
the events are flagged in the ShockLog data file and how the LEDs on the ShockLog unit flash
once a threshold has been breached.

Warning and alarm thresholds become more important when the ShockLog LEDs are to be 
used as part of a shipment’s receiving audit.  Example: Set a warning level to indicate the 
shipment should be quarantined pending further investigation.  Set the alarm threshold to 
indicate the shipment must be inspected without delay. 

“Drop out”
The acceleration level at which the ShockLog will stop recording an event provided it has been
set to record for longer than 1 second and the “Always Max” box has not be selected. The drop
out level should be no lower than the wake up threshold and can be as high as the warning.

If you are unsure of how to set your thresholds, please contact ShockWatch Technical Support
for assistance.

SLOT ALARMS 

The Slot Alarms window allows the user to specify alarm settings depending on the factory options and
peripherals that have been specified in the Firmware Options tab.

gRMS (Vibration)
gRMS alarms allow ShockLog 298 users to set slot alarms for gRMS data. In the setup window,
users must select the gRMS option (Firmware Options) for this measurement to be available.
Users should enable the axes for which a gRMS alarm is required and set the level as a
percentage of the shock range.

Acceleration (ShockLog 208 Only)

Acceleration measurements are only applicable to the ShockLog 208 unit. The ShockLog 208
does not have the capability of recording detailed event graphs. However, it is capable of
triggering an alarm if an impact within a time slot period exceeds the thresholds set in the Slot
       

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Alarms tab. The alarm level is set as a percentage of the unit’s range. For the ShockLog 208,
the range is factory set.

Environment
When temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors are to be used, the environment section
allows users to set low and high thresholds for these parameters. This section is where settings
are made for both factory installed temperature/humidity sensors or the external
temperature/humidity/pressure sensor.

T&R ALARMS 

The T&R Alarm window is used when either the Tilt & Roll option (internal) has been purchased as part of
the ShockLog 298 or the legacy Tilt & Roll accelerometer (external) is being used. The alarms of interest
should be enabled and the degree of tilt / roll should be entered by the user. Alarms can be set for both
upper and lower levels for tilt and roll.

       

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FINISH 

The Finish window provides a summary of the settings and provides an opportunity to save the setup file
and send it to the ShockLog.

SAVING SETUP FILE 

After a setup has been defined, it must be saved before it can be sent to a ShockLog. Click the disk save

icon to save the file.

The system will automatically save the file in the default setup directory and can be retrieved for editing or
sending to a ShockLog at any time.

SENDING SETUP TO SHOCKLOG 
Once the setup has been created and saved, it can be sent to the ShockLog.

Connect the ShockLog via the USB cable to the PC and click the “Play” icon. 
The ShockLog USB port is on the side of the ShockLog under a silver screw connector.

The status bar at the bottom of the screen will

change to “OK” once the file has been successfully
sent.

       

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MONITORING & DOWNLOADING A SHOCKLOG 

Two methods are available for monitoring and downloading the ShockLog: connection through a USB
port or through an RF connection (ShockLog 298 only). While in use, a ShockLog’s condition also can be
monitored via the unit’s status LEDs.

STATUS LEDS 

ShockLog units have three status LEDs that display the unit’s condition:

1. iButton (298, 248, 208)

 Single color LED (red)
 Illuminated when a valid iButton is inserted
 Used in conjunction with the SLOT ALARM LED, which flashes green when the iButton
command is accepted

2. Slot Alarm (298, 248, 208)

 Tri-color LED (green, amber & red)
 Flashes every 10 seconds when in Waiting State, or every 5 seconds when in Running State
 Condition
o No slot alarms
 Flashes green
o One or more slot alarms
 Flashes red

3. Event Alarm (298, 248)

 Tri-color LED ( green, amber & red)
 Flashes every 10 seconds when in Waiting State, or every 5 seconds when in Running State
 Condition
o No events
 Flashes green
o Warning event(s) recorded (with no Alarm events)
 Flashes amber
o Alarm event recorded
 Flashes red

For ShockLog units with firmware v27 and above, All LED’s flash red every 10 seconds when the unit is in
the Stopped state.

USB COMMUNICATION 

Open the Communications Window and connect a ShockLog through the USB to the PC.

The Communication Window information boxes will automatically update from the ShockLog. With
ShockLog software version 9.x and greater, it is possible to communicate with both the latest generation
of ShockLog products and legacy products.

       

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The Communication window information includes the following parameters:

Model Variant of the ShockLog attached i.e. ShockLog 298, 248, 208, ShockLog RD298
or RD317.

Serial Number Serial number of the attached ShockLog; this field will not populate for most
legacy products.

Version Firmware code version of the attached ShockLog.

State Operating state of the ShockLog: Waiting, Running or Stopped.

Connection Type of connection currently utilized to communicate with the ShockLog

Date / Time Date and time set in the ShockLog unit; this field will update every 10 seconds
while the unit is connected.

Range G range set in the attached unit.

Setup Passwords and Security Log can be

activated from the View menu at the top of the
screen. Once activated the buttons enable
users to set up passwords and view the
security log of the attached ShockLog. These
capabilities are described in more detail later
in this manual.

RF COMMUNICATIONS 

Radio Dockable Window

To enable the ShockLog software to communicate with the RF Base unit, a special “Radio”
dockable window is available. Users are able to open the Radio window from the New Window
option in the Windows menu. Once opened, the window can be docked on the screen in the
same manner as all of the other windows.

       

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The radio window enables users to view and communicate with all available ShockLog 298RF
units that are in range of the RF Base Unit. Users are be able to download data; send set up files,
set the clock of the remote ShockLog 298RF units; and configure the RF Base unit from this
window. A list of ShockLog units connected through the RF link will automatically populate in the
Radio window. In order to communicate with the ShockLog, the appropriate ShockLog should be
highlighted. This step is not necessary when the ShockLog is communicating with the base unit.
When downloading data from the ShockLog over the RF connection, the download time can take
several minutes depending on the amount of data to be downloaded.

The RF Base unit must be plugged into a PC for it to operate. It may take as long as 15 minutes
for the base unit and the ShockLog to establish initial communication.

When an event occurs that is above the thresholds, the ShockLog will transmit an alarm
notification to the PC where the base unit is connected. Alarm notification will include ShockLog
serial number for quick identification of which unit has experienced an event. New alarms will
accumulate until “Accept” has been clicked. This allows the user to acknowledge that the
ShockLog has alarms and take actions appropriate to their operating procedures.

A summary of information will be visible in the Radio window – number of slot alarms, event
alarms and warnings, date and time as well as an indication of signal strength. The number of
alarms includes the total number of alarms experienced during the measurement period.

       

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OVERVIEW OF SOFTWARE SCREENS 
 
FILE VIEWER WINDOW 

The File Viewer Window is

the main section of the
software window and
displays all of the
information related to the
selected file.

REPORT 

In the File Viewer, the

Report View is the first
screen displayed.
(Experienced ShockLog
users will recognize the
Report as the One Page
Report.) The report
provides an overview of the entire journey, storage period, experiment, etc. Information is provided in text
and graphs. The Report will be discussed in greater detail in the next section.

EXPLORER WINDOW 

The Explorer window provides a list of all available data files in the
main database. Click on any of the files and the report data will
appear in the File Viewer. The file data in the Explorer window will
break down into more detail showing Events, Summaries and
Slots.

Click on “Events” in the Explorer window, and the system will

display the individual events. By selecting any of the events, the
“File Viewer” will display the detailed curve for that event.

RECORD TABLE 

Users experienced with the ShockLog legacy software will recognize the “Record Table” window as the
“Examine Data” screen.

The Record Table window provides an alternative view of the data files in the database. It provides the
user with an overview of the number of Events, Warnings, Alarms, Summaries and Slots. It is also
possible to see the user comment associated with the file. The user comment can make the date more
meaningful to the person reviewing the data.

From this screen, users

have the ability to sort
the database by the
columns of data. This
feature will be discussed
in more detail in the
manual.
   

       

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EVENT TABLE 

When a file with “Events” is selected, the “Event Table” will refresh to display details of all the events
associated with the highlighted data file. The “Event Table” displays the Event Number; Event Date;
Duration (seconds); Range; Rate (samples recorded per second); Temperature; Max X,Y,Z (highest G
measurement in each axis during the event) and the Modulus value of the event.

Click on the Event number and the File Viewer will change to display the detailed event curve for
the selected event.

It is possible to move from the Event Table to the relevant slot graph by clicking “Show Slots” next
to the desired event.

       

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COMMUNICATIONS WINDOW 

The Communications Window displays live data from a connected ShockLog. It allows a user to perform
tasks while connected to the ShockLog. Information displayed in the Communications Window includes:
Model of the ShockLog connected, Serial Number (not available on legacy products), Version of firmware,
State (running or stopped), Connection (USB or Serial), Date/Time, Range (impact scale), Status (alerts if
memory is full), Alarms (number recorded) and Protocol of the attached ShockLog.

In the Communications Window, it is possible to perform a variety of functions.

Download Downloads data from the ShockLog.

Start If a ShockLog is in a stopped state, “Start” will restart the unit.
Send Setup Sends a new setup to a ShockLog and clears the ShockLog memory.
Set Clock Sets the clock of the ShockLog to match the PC.
Stop If a ShockLog is in a running state, “Stop” will stop the unit.
Read Setup Allows the user to read the setup data and save as a separate setup file for future
use.

In addition to the above buttons, two others are grayed out. “Setup Passwords” and “Security
Log” are special functions and will be explained later in the manual.

VIEW SETUP RECORD  

With a ShockLog unit attached to the PC, it is possible to view the setup file on the screen.

From the “Communications” window, select the ‘Read Setup’ button and the PC software will interrogate
the attached ShockLog displaying the installed set-up in the usual setup window. It is possible to save
the set-up file to the local PC, and users will be offered this option as they close the setup window.

While unlikely, if the Communication Window is opened, a ShockLog is connected and the 
information does not update, disconnect and reconnect the ShockLog device to reactivate 
the window. 

SLOT BREAKS GRID 

The Slot Breaks table displays a list of breaks in the Time Slot data. These breaks can include all
communication with an iButton, the first slot record or could relate to alarm resets from a Remote
Monitoring System. The list will be shown in date/time order and will indicate what slot had a break in it
and what the break event was. To access the Slot Break table select “Windows”, “New Window” then
“Slot Breaks Grid”.

       

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To view the slot breaks on the time slot graphs, double click on any of the slot breaks in the table
and the software will link to the appropriate time slot period on the graph.

On the slot graphs, slot breaks are represented by a grey vertical line. Click one of the grey lines,
and a text box will appear on the right side of the graph. The text box will provide details
regarding what caused the slot break and the slot number of concern. It is possible for more than
one slot break to occur in a single time slot period. If this is the case, the text box will list all of the
slot breaks in time order.

If the last slot break is selected, a red line will illustrate the end of the final slot.

   

       

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ANALYZING THE SHOCKLOG DATA 
 
REPORT  

When a file is opened, the Report View is displayed. The report provides an overview of the entire file
(journey / storage period / experiment), providing information in both text and graphical formats.

The text data is broken down into two separate tables providing the following data:

Data File Summary

The file summary provides an overview of the ShockLog that was deployed for the journey and
summary information regarding the actual journey.

Model ShockLog model used for the data file 298, 248 & 208 denote the latest
ShockLog ranges, and RD298 & RD317 are the legacy products.
Journey Start Date the unit started to record the data file.
Journey End Date the unit stopped recording the data file.

       

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Report Start Beginning date of the report. If the report has been adjusted to display
only a section of the data file, this field provides the starting point. Data
viewed on the Report page will begin with the Report Start Date.
Report End Date the data on the report ends. If the report has been adjusted to
display only a section of the data file, this field provides the end point.
Data viewed on the Report page will end with the Report End Date.
Download Date When the data file was extracted from the ShockLog unit.
Recorded Duration Length of time the ShockLog recorder actually recorded data.
Serial No Serial number of the ShockLog unit that recorded the data file.

Summary of Events
The summary of events provides details of the Events seen in the data file.

First Alarm Provides details of the first alarm event that was recorded (includes
Event Number, Axis, Date/Time, Modulus (g) and Temperature at time of
event).
First Warning Provides details of the first warning event that was recorded (includes
Event Number, Axis, Date/Time, Modulus (g) and Temperature at time of
event).
Note: First Warning is only applicable to the 298 and RD298 versions.
Most Severe Provides details of the most severe event recorded (includes Event
Number, Axis, Date/ Time, Modulus (g) and Temperature at time of
event).
Event Summary Provides the quantity of events (Warnings and Alarms) which occurred

Report Time Period Selector

There may be circumstances when showing the complete data file of a journey, test or storage
period is not necessary. When a smaller section of time within the recorded data is of interest, the
ShockLog software incorporates a “report time period selector” that allows users to define the time
period of interest and hide the remaining of the data. As a safe guard to prevent abuse of this
feature, the ShockLog software always displays the complete recorded period and the actual time
period being displayed for the graphical data in the file. The report time period selector does not
delete the full data set; it only allows the report to focus on the areas of interest. This information
can be found in the trip summary section of the Report.

At the top right hand corner of the File View window, just below the tabs, there are two drop down
windows with dates. When opening a new file these will represent the start and end dates / time of
any given file.  

       

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The start and finish date / time of the report displayed can be amended by either changing the
date & time in a calendar drop down option or through the use of a slide bar, both of which are
activated by checking the appropriate check box for either the report start or report end boxes.

With the calendar system, when a user clicks on the drop down menu, a calendar for selecting the
required start or end date will appear. Note: it is necessary to click on both the start and end
check boxes and drop down menus independently. The dates cannot both be changed through a
single calendar screen.

From the drop down screen, a user is able to select a new start date for the report. Once the date
is selected, it is possible to amend the start time by typing over the time next to the selected date.

After making these amendments, the main report within the file viewer window changes to display
only the information after the selected start date, ignoring all earlier information. However, the
“Recorded Period” shown in the information box will not change.

To use the slide bar, place the cursor over the moving bar (circled), press and hold the left mouse
button and drag the bar to the approximate time desired. The main report will update
automatically. The date and time being displayed will change in the window so the user is able to
track the position in the report.

The same process is used to change the end dates of a report. This function makes it possible to
create custom reports for different periods of the file.

In addition to the text data, the Report provides three data graphs.

Slot Graph
X, Y and Z axis impacts, as well as the internal temperature, are the default graphs that appear in
the Report. Users are able to select different data channels as required.

       

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Slot Graph Selection

When a data file is first opened, the report tab will display four time slot graphs, usually X, Y & Z
acceleration and Internal Temperature. These values will vary depending on what was selected
for the recorded period.

To view any of the alternative channels of information recorded during this file, the user can
change the display selection.

However, a maximum of four graphs can be displayed at any given time. If a user needs to view
more than four, it is necessary to go to the Slots Tab where all recorded time slot parameters can
be viewed.

To change the selected Graphs, select the arrow of the ‘Select Slot’ drop down menu. A list of all
the available slot graphs that have been recorded in the data file and the four graphs currently
being displayed will be checked. To change the selection, uncheck the graphs no longer of
interest and check those that should be displayed.

When the desired channels have been selected, the report will automatically update and display
the revised charts.

Click on the arrow to go back to the report. 

The display can be changed as many times as desired and the various versions can be printed
for the record.

       

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Event Data Graphs

The right side of the Report Tab contains information about the event data recorded. This section
will appear blank when viewing files from a 208 ShockLog, as these units do not record detailed
event data. It will also be blank when viewing a file where no event has been recorded.

The data is split into two different graphs: Event Summary and Detailed Event Curve.

Event Summary Graph

This bar chart graph shows the modulus value of all events recorded within the data file and
highlights the most severe event by displaying it in red.

When a data file is first opened, the most severe event is not only highlighted in red but also has
a red cursor bar running through it. The cursor bar is used to show which event is being displayed
in the detailed event curve below and can be moved by clicking on another event (bar).

It is possible to zoom in on smaller proportions of the summary chart and highlight the area of
events that are of interest. The events are not in any form of date and time order, but rather are
simply listed in the order they occurred. Events may be within minutes or days of each other.

To zoom in on a particular area, click and hold the left mouse key on the first event of interest and
drag the mouse to the last event of interest. The events of interest will be the area of focus.
Changing the date selection as described in the Report Time Period Selector section will have a
similar effect on the summary chart.

       

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After zooming in on an area, it is possible to move through the events by using the slide bar at the
bottom of the chart.

By clicking on any of the visible events, the detailed event curve below will change.

To return back to the full screen, click the button at the left hand end of the slide bar.

Detailed Event Curve

The event curve displays the detailed data curve for a given event. It will display the most severe
event when the report is first opened. Different events are displayed by clicking on them from the
Event Summary Graph. The detailed event curve shows the magnitude and duration of the
impact event, with the horizontal axis displaying the time in milliseconds and the vertical axis
showing the force of the impact in g. All three axes will be displayed giving users a full
understanding of the level of impact seen across all axes.

Drag ‘n’ Zoom

Similar to the summary event graph, it is possible to zoom in on the most relevant areas of a
detailed event graph allowing users to see the area of most interest.

In order to zoom, place the cursor at the beginning of the area of interest, click and hold the left
mouse button and drag it to the end of the relevant area.

In this example, the area between 0 and 100 milliseconds is of interest. By zooming in, the first
10% of the event
can be displayed with more visual detail. This area is where most of the event activity occurred.

If desired, it is possible to zoom in further. The same method for zooming is used. It is possible to
move backwards and forwards along the event time line utilizing the slide bar at the bottom of the
chart. To return back to the previous graph/zoom, click on the button to the left of the slide bar.

       

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SETTINGS 

The settings tab provides a summary of the ShockLog setup associated with the data file. Information
regarding the accelerometer, event, slot and summary settings is detailed.

Setup Name The name of the setup used for the data file.

Mission Comment Displays the mission comment if one was entered during the
creation of the setup file.

Accelerometers Displays the following information:

Range Acceleration or velocity range selected (or factory set).
Wake (%) Accelerometer wakeup level of the processor; set as a
percentage of the range and is point at which the
processor will wake up and start to record at full speed in
preparation of an event.
Warn (%) X,Y,Z Only applies to the 298 and RD298; shows the g
value at which events will be recorded as a warning.
Each individual axis can be set to a different sensitivity
based on the requirement of the product being
monitored.
Alarm (%) X,Y,Z Shows the g value at which events will be
recorded as an alarm. Each individual axis can be set to
a different sensitivity based on the requirement of the
product being monitored.

Drop Out (%) Only applies to 298 and RD298; shows the g value at
which events will stop recording once they have passed
1 second and are not set to “Always Max”. Each
individual axis can be set to a different sensitivity based
on the requirement of the product being monitored.

Hardware Filter Displays the hardware filter selected

Events Displays the following information:

Record Length Provides information about the amount of memory
allocated to each event. For this case, 32K is the largest
amount.
Max Record Time Shows the maximum length of time an event is recorded.
If the ‘Always Max’ is set to Yes, the max record time is
the length of every event. If not set to Yes, max record
time will record an event between 1 second and this
maximum figure, depending upon when the drop out
level is reached.
       

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Max. No Events Shows the maximum number of events that the

ShockLog recorder is capable of recording with these
settings.
Filter Frequency Displays the selected hardware filter frequency
Always Max If this is set, an event will always record for the
maximum length set and drop out threshold is ignored.

Slots Displays the following information:

Interval The time slot interval setting, i.e. the length of time each
time slot is measured.
Total Run Time Shows the maximum length of time that the unit is able
to record before the time slot memory is full.
Max No Slots Shows the total number of time slot periods that are
available for each channel of data.
No. Content Set Shows the number of channels selected. Channels can
include: Max g X,Y & Z, Min X,Y & Z, grms X, Y & Z,
Internal Temperature, External Temperature, Humidity,
Pressure, Dew Point, Tilt & Roll and External Channels.

No. Alarms Set Shows the number of Slot Alarms that have been set in
relation to the channels of data being recorded. Slot
alarms can include high/low temperature, humidity &
pressure, angles of tilt or roll as well as g alarms for the
208.

Summaries Report will display the following information:

Interval Shows the length of time between each summary
record. For this example, the interval is every 10
minutes.
Total Run Time The maximum length of time that the unit is able to record before
the summary memory is full.

Standard Options, Factory Options, and Peripherals display the options selected in the setup.

SLOTS  

In the File Viewer,

selecting Slots tab will
bring up a new screen
displaying a number of
time slot bar graphs in
relation to the data file
currently being viewed.
This tab provides the
user a more detailed view
of all the available slot
data. On the right side of
the screen text data will
be presented in relation
to the graphs displayed. Just below the tabs, the options of Select Slots, Show Events and Export are
available. This section will detail how these functions operate. With the graphs themselves, the Y axis will
display the unit of measure for the given channel of data (i.e. g, temperature, etc.), and the X axis
displays the slot number.

       

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The text information on the right side of the screen

provides additional information about the slot graph
being viewed. More specifically, it provides information
regarding the highlighted area or where the cursor is
positioned. When the slot tab is first selected, the cursor
will be at the far left zero position and is depicted by a
red line.

The information is displayed in bar chart format and can include the following:

Acceleration
(X, Y & Z) Peak acceleration max or min recorded in g or cm/s
Temperature Peak value recorded in Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Humidity Peak value recorded as a percentage.
Dew Point Calculated based upon the temperature and humidity recorded.
Pressure Peak value recorded in BAR.
Tilt & Roll Maximum angle of movement, recorded as degrees of angle +/- 180
degrees.
g-RMS Calculated RMS values based on the acceleration data captured within
the time slots.

The information displayed per slot is as follows:

Graph Type Tells the user which channel of information is being displayed in the slot
graph. In this example MaxPKX, the maximum peak values seen on the
X axis is being displayed.
Value at Cursor Shows the channel value where the cursor has been positioned. In this
example, it is at zero, because the cursor has not been moved from its
original starting position. This feature can be used to highlight
spikes/peaks in the data and quickly ascertain actual values at these
points.
Time at Cursor Allows the user to see the date and time at each slot point so that a peak
value can quickly be associated to a place and potentially a responsible
person or organization.
Maximum in View Considers all of the values for this channel currently visible on the graph
and will tell the user the highest value seen. As the user zooms in on the
data, this value potentially will change if the original peak in not in the
zoomed area.
Minimum in View Considers all the values for this channel currently visible on the graph
and will tell the user the lowest value seen. Generally this feature is
more useful for the environmental parameters such as temperature and
humidity where it will display the upper and lower limits for the displayed
period. For the impact graphs this value will be displayed as zero.
Slot Breaks Only appears when slot breaks are displayed at the same point as the
cursor on the graph and are indicated by a grey vertical line. The values
will correspond with the Slot Break table.

To get a quick snapshot of the values associated with a bar on any of the graphs, hold the mouse
cursor over any of the individual bars and click the right mouse button. This action will display a
small text box next to your cursor displaying the data value at that point, i.e. the peak acceleration
value, as well as the date and time of the data point. The text box will appear for about 5 seconds
before clearing.

Each parameter recorded requires a set amount of memory. Increasing the number of
parameters recorded in the slots will decrease the available recording time. Users must balance
       

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the measurement parameter requirements and memory to ensure that appropriate data is
captured for the entire recording period.

Select Slots
As a default, when viewing the slot graphs all recorded channels will be shown on the slot tab.
By scrolling down with the slide bar or the center wheel of the mouse, it is possible to view the
various graphs. In order to simplify the interpretation of the recorded data, it may not be
appropriate to view all of the available graphs. Through the use of the Select Slots drop down
menu, it is possible to select and unselect channels of data as appropriate. It is not possible to
change the order in which the graphs are displayed; the graphs can be viewed or not viewed in
the given order.

When the appropriate graphs have been selected, click onto the graphs and the drop down menu
will clear. The graphs being displayed can be changed at any time.

Tilt & Roll

These two data points are separated
into two graphs, named Roll Traces and
Tilt Traces. Any breaks in the
communication channel that can occur
during the recording period are
represented as a red cross on the
respective graph. 

Drag ‘n’ Zoom

When viewing the slot graphs, the default will scale the graphs to fit the complete recording
period on the screen. The system will compress the data and merge several time slots into each
bar of the chart making it difficult to focus on specific time periods within the recorded data.

To assist in this area, the ShockLog software allows the user to zoom into specific areas of the
graph and highlight the key, potentially damaging areas of information. The process of zooming in
is very simple. Placing the mouse cursor at the beginning of the period of interest, click and hold
the left mouse button, drag it to the end of the period of interest, and release.

The graph will zoom in to display the highlighted area as a full screen view. This zoom area will
be reflected in all
the graphs displayed. It is not possible to zoom in on only one of the graphs.

It is possible to continue zooming in until each individual time slot is displayed as a separate bar
within the graph, making it easier to identify potential damage creating time slots. When
positioning the cursor to create the text information, it is necessary to position the cursor to the
left side of the bar chart, as this is the point recognized by the system for each time slot period.

Zoom All
Pressing this button allows the user to return to the original view of the graph, canceling all
zoomed-in areas.

Show Events
The ShockLog software has been written with a number of hyperlinks enabling the user to move
between relevant sections of data. From the Slot graphs, it is possible to jump to the detailed
       

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event curves associated with the period of time being displayed by the slot graphs. When first
entering the slot tab, the user is presented with all of the events recorded in the data file as the
whole time period will be in view. As the user zooms in, the number of events for the time period
in view will reduce.

To view the Event graphs, click on “Show Events” in the top left corner of the Slots tab.

After clicking Show Events, a drop down window stating how many events are associated with
the visible slots will appear. Click OK, and the software will go to the first of the associated events
in the events tab. To get back, simply click the Slots tab.

Export
From all of the detailed graph tabs it is possible to
export the raw data from the data files to allow
manipulation of the data in alternative packages such
as Excel and MatLab. 

To export the Slot data from the Slots tab, click the
“Export” button and the user will be given the
opportunity to choose a location for the saved file. After
naming the file and selecting save, the export window
will appear.

In the Export window, the slot data has been checked with the rest being left blank. In this
example, the six channels of slot data will be exported.

All of these parameters are adjustable. If the user does not wish to export an available channel of
data, uncheck the appropriate box. Additionally if only a proportion of the data file is of interest,
the slide bars can be used to adjust the start and finish times of the data to be exported.
The Separator drop down menu allows the user to select the character used to separate fields in
the export data.

The auto option will use the separator commonly associated with the computer’s language
setting. For example, a comma is used in the USA or UK and a semicolon is used in France or
Germany. Other languages will vary. Other options for a separator can be manually set via the
drop down menu as a comma, semicolon or space.

To add any of the event or summary information in addition to the slot data, simply check the
appropriate boxes.

Click the “Export” button, and when the system has finished, an export completed window will
appear.

The exported data files are recorded in the Export directory under the ShockLog system. If the
route to the directory is unknown, view the Data Path option under the tools menu, and the export
folder can be found in the directory that holds the Data, Setup and XML files. The files can be
imported into any appropriate software application as required.

       

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SLOT ALARMS  

In the File Viewer screen, the slot alarms tab will bring up a table of slot alarm levels and indicate if they
are in an alarm condition.

SUMMARIES 

In the File Viewer screen, the Summaries tab will bring up a table of data, summarizing what has
happened in each of the summary periods including the number of events, peak acceleration and any
environmental conditions recorded.

Column Data
The information is presented as a grid with columns of data that relate to the data file being
viewed. The potential columns of data include:

       

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Date/Time Specifies the date and time of the summary record.

Warns Specifies the number of warning events recorded in summary period.
Alarms Specifies the number of alarm events recorded in summary period.
Range Denotes either the user selected range (298) or factory set range
(248/208).
Max PK X, Y & Z Records the maximum peak value recorded for each of the axes during
the summary period.
RMS X, Y & Z Records the RMS values recorded for each axis on the summary period
Max Temperature Displays the maximum temperature recorded by the internal sensor
during the summary period.
Min Temperature Displays the minimum temperature recorded by the internal sensor
during the summary period.
Max Ext. Temperature Displays the maximum temperature recorded by the external sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.
Min Ext. Temperature Displays the minimum temperature recorded by the external sensor (if
installed) during the summary period
Max Ext. Dew Point Displays the maximum dew point recorded by the external fitted sensor
(if installed) during the summary period.
Min Ext. Dew Point Displays the minimum dew point recorded by the external fitted sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.
Max Ext. RH Displays the maximum humidity recorded by the external fitted sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.
Min Ext. RH Displays the minimum humidity recorded by the external fitted sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.
Ext. Temp Max RH Displays the maximum temperature recorded by the external fitted
sensor (if installed) during the summary period.
Ext. Temp Min RH Displays the minimum temperature recorded by the external fitted sensor
(if installed) during the summary period.

Max Pressure Shows the maximum recorded pressure from an HPT sensor (if installed)
during the summary period.
Min Pressure Shows the minimum recorded pressure from an HPT sensor (if installed)
during the summary period.
Ext Temp Max
Dew Point Shows the maximum calculated dew point from an HPT sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.
Ext Temp Min
Dew Point Shows the minimum calculated dew point from an HPT sensor (if
installed) during the summary period.

Sorting Summary Data

Summary data is presented in a spreadsheet style grid and can be sorted via the column
headings. An example is to view the data based on number of alarms. Click on the column
header and the data will be sorted into ascending or descending order. Click again and the order
will reverse. This principle applies to all of the columns. For example, if interested in finding the
summary periods with the greatest temperature, simply click on the column heading of “Max Ext
Temp” and the whole grid will sort into the temperature order.

Click at the top of the date & time column, and the data will be sorted back into date/time order.

Show Events
From the Summary tab, it is possible to jump to the detailed event curves and slot graphs
associated with the summary period currently highlighted. The summary table will display whether

       

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warnings or alarms have occurred in any given period, and where events have occurred. Click on
the “Show Events” button, and the software will go to the first relevant event curve.

Upon clicking the Show Events button, a drop down window showing how many events are
associated with the visible slots will appear. Click OK and the software will go to the first of the
associated events in the events tab.

To get back, click on the Summary tab.

Show Slots
In addition to the hyperlink to Events, the ShockLog software enables the user to link between
summaries and relevant slot data.

Each summary period has a number of time slot periods within it, and the slot graphs scales to
show all the relevant slots for a given summary period.

To view the Slot graphs, it is necessary to click “Show Slots” in the top left menu of the Summary
tab. The software will move to the Slots tab with the slot graphs zoomed into the summary period
time frame. From here all of the normal functionality within the Slots tab can be accessed. To get
back, click on the Summary tab.

Export
As well as being able to Export from the detailed graph
tabs, it is possible to export the raw data from the summary
tab allowing manipulation of the data in alternative
packages such as Excel and MatLab.

To export the summary data from the Summary tab, click

the “Export” button and the user will be given the
opportunity to choose a location for the saved file. After
naming the file and selecting save, the export window will
appear.

In the Export window, the summary data is checked with

the rest of the fields being unchecked.

All of these parameters are adjustable. For example, if

there are channels of data that are not of interest simply
uncheck the appropriate box. It is possible to use the slide
bars to adjust the start and finish times of the data to be
exported.

If any of the event or slot information is of interest, simply check the appropriate boxes of interest
and click the
“Export” button. When the system has finished, an export completed window will appear.

The user can select the required folder to save the exported data files in via the Browse for Folder
dialog. Click OK to save the exported data.

For more detail on exporting data, please refer to the specific section later in this manual under
Menu Options.

       

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Select Columns
To select which columns are shown, click on “Select
Columns”. Check or uncheck the appropriate boxes to view
or hide slot contents, then click “Select”. Click “Clear all” to
deselect all contents.

EVENTS  

The final tab in the file viewer is the “Events Tab”. This tab displays the detailed event curves for alarm
and warning events. Text data related to a graph is displayed. Above the text there are two arrow buttons
that allow the user to scroll through the events. The event under examination is labeled on the left side of
the event. This section details the different methods of interrogating the Event data to better understand
the recorded data.

Text Data
The text information on the right side of the screen is intended to provide additional information
about the event graph being viewed and more specifically the area highlighted or where the
cursor is positioned. When first entering the slot tab, the cursor is at the far left position of zero
and the cursor text information is blank. By clicking on a different area of the curve, the cursor bar
will move and the text field will be completed with the localized information. The cursor bar is
depicted by a red, vertical line.

The data is split into the different axes, X, Y & Z with an E for any potential external
accelerometers that may be installed. The information is as follows:

Date Tells the user the date and time that the current event was recorded. The
date and time are in relation to the ShockLog clock and won’t necessarily
match that of the computer.
Value at Cursor Shows the value in relation to the event being viewed, the individual axis
and where the cursor has been positioned. In this display, there are four
individual boxes, which represent X, Y, Z and E (E=external) and these
individual fields will display the value seen at this point of the event.

       

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Time at Cursor Displays the number of milliseconds from the start of the event to the
cursor location.
Maximum in View Considers the values for the event currently visible on the graph and tells
the user the highest value seen. If the user zooms in on the data, this
action will potentially change if the original peak is not within the zoomed
area.
Minimum in View Considers the values for the event currently visible on the graph and tells
the user the lowest value seen. If the user zooms in on the data, this
action will potentially change if the original peak is not within the zoomed
area.
X, Y, Z, E Determines what data will be represented on the graph. Four squares
with ticks inside and a colored letter, X, Y, Z or E next to them represent
the different axis of accelerometers represented by the colored curves on
the graph. By clicking inside any of the boxes different axis or
environmental data can be added or removed from the graph. If a
specific axis of data is of interest, it is possible to remove all of the others
and focus on a single axis.

Drag ‘n’ Zoom

When viewing the event graphs, the default always scales the graphs to fit the complete event on
the graph, therefore making it difficult to focus on specific time periods within the event data. In
many events the actual period of activity of interest can be less than 200 mS. As a result, the
majority of the graph displays as a straight line.

To assist in this area the ShockLog software allows the user to zoom into specific areas of the
graph and highlight the key areas of information.

The process of zooming in is very simple. Place the cursor at the beginning of the period of
interest, click and hold the left mouse button, drag the cursor to the end of the period of interest
and release. The graph will zoom in to display the highlighted area as a full screen view. This
zoom area will be reflected in all the graphs if you try to scroll through to other events. Once
zoomed in only this range will be seen.

It is possible to continue zooming in until each individual millisecond is displayed as a separate

point on the graph. This action would provide a very detailed analysis of the main activity within
the event.

While in a zoomed in view, it is possible to scroll along the event curve using the scroll bar at the
bottom of the graph. Click and hold on the main bar, then drag the bar left or right or click the
arrows or the light grey area on either side of the slide bar.

To return the graph to its original position, click on the small button to the left of the scroll bar.
Clicking this button will step the user back one zoom level. If the graph has been zoomed in on
several times, it will be necessary to press the button as many times to return to the original
graph setting.

Frequency Calculations

The ShockLog has the ability to calculate frequency and period (duration) of an event on a per
axis basis. In the example below, the axis of interest is the Z axis. The X and Y axes have been
deselected on the right side of the screen. To calculate the frequency between two points, right
click on the first point and select the starting point per axis and then move the cursor to the
ending point of interest and right click on the point. The ShockLog software will display the
       

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frequency and period between the two points. This feature can be used in when the data has
been zoomed. To clear the calculations, right click and select ”Clear Freq’ Points”.

Zoom All
Pressing this button allows the user to return to the original view of the graph, canceling all
zoomed-in areas

Show Slots
Similar to the Slot and Summary tabs, the Events tab contains hyperlinks that allow the user to
move between relevant sources of data. The ShockLog software enables the user to move
between Event and relevant Slot data.

When moving back to the event graph, the time slot period that the event belongs to is being
displayed.

       

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To view the Slot graphs, it is necessary to click on the button “Show Slots” in the top left corner of
the Events tab.

After clicking this button, the Slots tab with the slot graphs zoomed into the appropriate time
frame that the event relates will appear. From here all of the normal functionality within the Slots
tab can be accessed. To return, click on the Summary tab.

Show Data
While viewing the detailed event curves, the ShockLog software provides an option for users to
view the underlying data behind each curve as it is being viewed. The data table is displayed in
an Excel style spreadsheet showing the g values at every sample point throughout and event
period.

The columns of data include:

Sample A straight count from zero to the maximum number of samples, with 4096 being
the highest possible, for a given event.
Time The number of milliseconds from the start of the event that the sample relates to.
X, Y, Z The g value seen by each of the axes at the given sample point.
E The value seen by the external sensor if installed.

To move up and down the list of data, use the scroll bar on the right hand side of the screen. The
data table works like a database and can be sorted in order to find the specific information of
interest. For example, if the highest g value seen on the Z axis is of interest, click in the Z column
header, and the data table will sort into g value order with the most significant at the top. If the
user then wanted to know the lowest impact value, clicking the header again will reverse the
order into the least significant g value.

This data sorting process works on all column headings. The graph will not change its view with
any of the sorting; it will remain as the original event. To return to the original order and structure,
just click on the Sample header and the data will sort into sample order.

       

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Export
As with the other tab screens, it is possible to
Export the raw data from the Events tab allowing
manipulation of the data in alternative packages
such as Excel and MatLab.

To export the event data from the Event tab, click

the “Export” button and the user will be given the
opportunity to choose a location for the saved file.
After naming the file and selecting save, the export
window will appear.

In the Export window, notice that the Event data is

checked for the specific event being viewed and
the rest are unchecked.

All of these parameters are adjustable. If other events or the slot data on any of the available
channels of data is to be downloaded, check the appropriate box. If the entire data file is not of
interest but only a proportion is, use the slide bars to adjust the start and finish times of the data
to be exported.

It is not advisable to scroll through the events when the Events data table is open as it 
will dramatically reduce the speed at which the software is able to load the next event. 

To add any of the summary or slot information in addition to the event data, check the appropriate
boxes to be exported. Click on the “Export” button, and when the system has finished an export
completed window will appear.

The exported data files are recorded in the Export directory under the ShockLog system. If
unsure of the route to this directory, view the “Data path” option under the tools menu, and the
export folder can be found in the directory that holders the Data, Setup and XML files. The files
can then be imported into any appropriate software application as required.

Graph Scaling
With the ShockLog software users have the option to choose how graph scaling is presented.
The system default is to present the graphs on an “Auto” scaling setting that will maximize the
scale to fit the page display. However, this can prove to be a little confusing if the user is trying to
scroll through a number of events to identify the more significant ones as the scale will
continuously changes when scrolling between the various events. It is possible to set the system
into a “Maximum” setting that will retain the axis at the g range set for the recorded data, i.e. 10g
or 100g.

To change the settings, click on the arrow next to “Graph Scaling” and select either the “Auto” or
“Maximum” from the drop down menu. Once changed, this setting will be applied to all future data
files viewed until changed again.

Filters
It is possible to post-filter collected data with the filters tool. This tool allows the user to apply a
lower frequency filter to the measured data. The user is able to determine if impacts were the
result of high frequency ringing versus longer duration impacts which can be more damaging. It is
only possible to apply a lower frequency filter not a higher frequency filter.
       

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To illustrate the effect that such filtering can have, the exact same data file presented is shown
below with two different filters: 250Hz filter in Figure A and 10Hz filter in Figure B. The peak of
the Z-axis is reduced from over 10G in Figure A to below 0.2G in Figure B.

If you are unsure whether it is advisable to post-filter your data, please contact ShockWatch
Technical Support to discuss your particular application. 

Figure A

Figure B

   

       

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USER EXERCISE: DESKTOP TEST 

The following exercise will allow the user to practice the fundamental skills necessary to enter a basic
setup, create a few impact events and view the downloaded data.

CONNECTING THE SHOCKLOG TO A PC 

The USB communication port is located on the right side of the ShockLog opposite the connector with the
black cover. It is secured behind a threaded, protective cap that serves as the IP67 seal for the USB port.
To access the USB port, carefully unscrew the protective cap and expose the USB connector.

Connect the USB cable to the ShockLog and then connect the other end to the PC USB port.

COMMUNICATIONS WINDOW 

Upon plugging in the ShockLog, you will notice that the Communications window will appear in front of
the other windows. From this window you are able to communicate with the ShockLog unit and to monitor
the current status.

If the Communications window is not already in the screen, from the “View” menu at the top of the screen,
select “Communications”. A new “Communications” window will appear at the top of the screen. Position
this dockable window as previously described. It is now possible to view the current status of the
ShockLog in the various fields of the communication window.

SEND DEFAULT SETUP 

A default setup has been installed with the ShockLog

software. This setup will be used for the purposes of this
exercise. From the Communications window click “Send
Setup” and a file selection window will appear. The system
will automatically go to the appropriate directory, and the
file default.setup413 will be listed.

Select the default.setup413 file and click “Open”.

Select “Yes” when prompted with the question “Set the

ShockLog unit’s clock to the current PC date and time?”

The information bar at the bottom of the screen will show a

connecting status and change to “OK.” A confirmation
window will appear after the setup has been successfully
sent to the ShockLog unit.

       

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After selecting “OK,” the Communications window will gray out for a few
seconds and then will come back with only a number of the boxes
completed. At this point, the ShockLog memory is being cleared and the
unit is being reset for a new recording period. This process may take
several minutes depending on the amount of data being cleared. Once
completed, the status field will display “Running,” and the ShockLog can
be disconnected from the PC.

DROP TEST 

The ShockLog is now recording. The green Slot Alarm LED will flash every 5 seconds indicating that the
ShockLog is recording.

Create a few events by dropping the unit on a desk. Ideally, drop the ShockLog onto a mouse pad or
notepad. It should only be necessary to drop the ShockLog from approximately 25mm (1” inch) to create
an 8 to 10 g impact event.

Repeat this process a number of times and have the unit land on different faces to create impacts in all
three axes.

DOWNLOAD THE DATA 

After allowing the ShockLog to run for a short period of time and generating a number of events,
reconnect the ShockLog to the PC via the USB cable. From the Communications window, it will be
possible to view the status of the ShockLog and verify that a number of events have been recorded. In
this case, 37 alarms were generated.

Click the “Download” button on the Communications window

and there is an option to enter comments regarding the
journey/data that has been recorded. For this exercise, enter
“Desk Top Drop” and click “OK.”

The status bar at the bottom left part of the screen will change
from “Connecting” to “Data Transfer”; then a new separate
window will indicate that the communication transfer is
complete.

Click “OK” status and a new file will appear in the “Explorer”
and “Records Table” windows.

       

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VIEW FILE 

The ShockLog data file is now ready to be viewed. Click on either the file in the Explorer window or the
Record Table window. The File Viewer screen will display the data from the desk drop test file that was
just created.

Examine the data file by selecting the various screen options – Report, Setup, Slots, Slot Alarms,
Summaries and Events.

IBUTTON COMMUNICATIONS 

The ShockLog family of products allows for an efficient method of communication through an iButton
interface. This interface allows users to perform basic ShockLog operations without a PC connection.
iButtons are available to setup, start, stop, set clock and download the ShockLog report.

The iButton interface serves as the link between iButtons and a PC.

The iButton Interface window is accessed via the “View” menu. Within this window users are presented
with three tabs: Read, Passwords and Program.

READ 

Read is the first tab presented to users after opening the iButton interface. This screen is used to read
what is on an attached iButton. The USB connector and BUS connector should be plugged into the PC
USB port. It may be necessary to download drivers, but the download process is similar to the process
described in the Software Installation section.

       

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When an iButton is plugged into the connector bus, the

software will display the type of iButton being read and
whether there is data on the device.

If the user is using an iButton originally set up for the legacy

RD317 products, a warning will appear stating that the
iButton is for an RD317 and asking “do you wish to change
to RD317 mode?” By selecting “Yes”, the RD317 mode tick
box will be completed and any programming of the iButton
will be created in the RD317 compatibility mode.

If a new iButton is being set up, and it is desirable to use it

with a legacy RD317 unit, it is necessary to select the
RD317 Mode box before proceeding to ensure the iButton
is setup correctly for use with the older products.

PASSWORDS 

With iButtons and ShockLog units, there are two levels of

password protection. The iButton password is the first level
and is user definable. The ShockLog password is the
second level and is factory set. The ShockLog password
cannot be changed by the user.

IBUTTON PASSWORDS 

The iButton passwords must be less than 8 characters and

are set on the “Firmware Options” tab of the ShockLog
Setup Window. The password needs to be entered into the
password box and then repeated in the confirm box.
Passwords are case sensitive and will accept alphanumeric
values. However, symbols are not acceptable characters.

When a ShockLog is programmed with an iButton password, all iButtons used with that ShockLog unit
must be programmed with the same password, otherwise the ShockLog unit will ignore the command. To
program an iButton with the appropriate password, the iButton must be connected to the PC via the USB
connection BUS and then the Password tab selected.

       

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Move to the Password box and enter the password

exactly the same as the setup file. Move to the
confirm box using either the Tab key or moving the
mouse to the box. Re-enter the password to confirm.

Once the password has been set, it is necessary to

reprogram the iButtons by following the instructions
in the “Program” section below.

SHOCKLOG PASSWORDS 

The ShockLog Passwords are factory defined and

cannot be changed by the user. The ShockLog
passwords work in a similar way to the iButton
passwords, preventing communication with the
ShockLog from iButtons that do not have the
appropriate passwords. However, the ShockLog
passwords are unique to each ShockLog and are
supplied with the units when purchased. These passwords provide a unique number for every ShockLog
preventing generic passwords from being set up and used on all units.

Every unit shipped from the factory has 3 passwords supplied with it: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. The
ShockLog password used here requires the Level 2 password.

In order to activate the passwords in the ShockLog unit, the user must follow the instructions in “Setup
Passwords” later in this manual. Once these passwords have been activated, the only iButtons that will
communicate with the ShockLog unit are those programmed with the same ShockLog Level 2 password.

To program an iButton with the appropriate password, place it into the USB connector BUS attached to
the PC and open the iButton interface. Select the Passwords tab and enter the ShockLog password into
the Password box under the ShockLog section. Re-enter the password in the confirm box and then go to
the Program tab and follow the instructions in the “Program” section.

PROGRAM 

With an iButton attached to the USB Connection BUS,

when entering the “Program” tab, the user will be
presented with two check boxes for the different
passwords available and five buttons that are either
grayed out or live, depending upon the iButton that is
attached.

The buttons allow for the creation of: Start, Stop,

Setup, Clock and Download iButtons. A number of the
iButtons utilized by the ShockLog can be programmed
for a number of different options providing the user with
more flexibility in their stock of iButtons.

If an iButton is to be set with a password, it is

necessary to click on either the iButton or ShockLog
password box at the top of the tab. This action will take
the user back to the Password tab, where the
passwords must be entered or created. For
       

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instructions, refer to the “Password” section earlier in the manual.

Once the passwords have been set, click on the appropriate program button to send the program into the
iButton. “Finished” will appear when the programming is complete. If the user is sending a setup to the
iButton, when the setup button is selected, the user will be presented with the file search window and will
be asked to select the desired setup file. Please note that if passwords are required, they must have been
setup within the setup file before sending to the iButton. Refer to the File Setup section earlier in this
manual.

SETTING UP SHOCKLOG PASSWORDS 
 
ShockLog passwords allow users to protect their units from unauthorized access, download and
corruption. The
ShockLog passwords are factory defined for every ShockLog and are unique to each ShockLog serial
number.

To set the passwords within a ShockLog, activate the “Setup Passwords” key on the Communications
window. Go to the View menu and select the “Password Setup” button. The “Password Setup” button will
now be available in the Communications window.

Attach the ShockLog to the PC, click on the “Password Setup” button in the Communications window and
a new window will open. Enter the 8 digit numeric code (provided with the ShockLog), click “Enable
Passwords” and then “OK.”

The Status bar will show that the system is connecting to the ShockLog and will return “OK.” The
ShockLog is now password protected.

Now, when a user attempts to communicate with the ShockLog, it will be necessary to enter an
appropriate level password to gain access. A window requesting the required level of password will be
displayed. The following levels are required:

Stop Level 1
Start Level 1
Download Level 2
Send Setup Level 2
Set Clock Level 1
Read Setup Level 2

Note: The ShockLog program has been set up to memorize a password while in the same session with
the same ShockLog attached. Once a password has been entered, it will not need to be re-entered until
a new ShockLog session is opened.

To remove the password from a ShockLog unit, attach the ShockLog to the PC and open the
Communication window. Click on the Setup Password button and enter the Level 2 password but this
time select “OK” when the “Enable Passwords” button has not been selected. The password settings will
be removed from the ShockLog.

   

       

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IBUTTON USAGE 

Instructions for using the iButtons to set up and download data from a ShockLog unit are described
below:

CLOCK

Use the CLOCK iButton to set the ShockLog unit’s time and date to the PC’s time and date (which was
used to program the CLOCK iButton):

1. Insert the CLOCK iButton into the appropriate iButton opening on the top of the ShockLog
(located under the plastic black cap).
2. Hold the iButton in place, when the ‘iButton’ LED illuminates, wait and watch the LEDs.
3. When the ‘iButton’ LED is red and the ‘Slot Alarm’ LED is green, remove the iButton.
4. Date and time are set.

SETUP

To transfer a setup file that has been programmed

to the SETUP iButton to a ShockLog unit:

1. Insert the SETUP iButton into the iButton

opening on the ShockLog unit.
2. Hold the iButton in place, when the ‘iButton’
LED illuminates, wait and watch the LEDs.
3. When the ‘Slot Alarm’ green LED
illuminates, remove the iButton.
4. Setup is complete when the ‘Slot Alarm’
green LED goes out (up to 2 minutes
depending on ShockLog model).

START

To start a ShockLog unit:

1. Insert the START iButton into the iButton opening on the ShockLog unit.
2. Hold the iButton in place, when the ‘iButton’ LED illuminates, wait and watch the LEDs.
3. When the ‘iButton’ LED is red and the ‘Slot Alarm’ LED is green, remove the iButton.
4. Unit will start after 1 (one) minute.

DOWNLOAD

To download data recorded by a ShockLog:

1. Insert the DOWNLOAD iButton into the iButton opening on the ShockLog unit
2. Hold the iButton in place, when the ‘iButton’ LED illuminates, wait and watch the LEDs.
3. When the ‘Slot Alarm’ green LED illuminates, remove the iButton (this can take a few minutes
depending on the model and data content).
4. Download is complete.

       

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5. To download data from a DOWNLOAD

iButton to the PC, the user must click on
the ‘”Download” button found on the “Read”
tab of the USB interface (in the ShockLog
software) while the iButton is firmly in the
connector bus.
STOP

To stop a ShockLog unit:

1. Insert STOP iButton into the iButton

opening on the ShockLog unit.
2. Hold the iButton in place, when the ‘iButton’
LED illuminates, wait and watch the LEDs.
3. When the ‘iButton’ LED is red and the ‘Slot
Alarm’ LED is green, remove the iButton,
and the unit will stop recording.

SECURITY LOG 

The Security Log provides users with a detailed list of communication activity for the ShockLog unit. This
data includes dates and times of activities, a description of the activity and provides an additional audit
trail for a data file. The ShockLog Security Log can only be cleared by the factory during the ShockLog
calibration process. For security reasons, users cannot clear this file.

To view and export the ShockLog security log, it is necessary to activate the “Security Log” key on the
communications window. Go to the View menu and select the Security Log Button. Return to the
Communications window and the Security Log button will be available.

After the Security Log button has been activated and a ShockLog unit is attached to the PC, clicking on
the button will bring up the following grid of information:

The Grid provides the following data columns:

Rec’ No Sequential number given to every activity recorded.

Date & Time Provides the specific date and time the activity occurred.
Entry Provides a description of the activity recorded.
Data Shows the size of the data recorded.

The grid can be sorted by column by clicking on the top of any of the columns. The data will be sorted by
the selected column. By sorting on the “Rec’ No” column, the data will return to the original order.

The Security Log data can be exported into a comma delimited file (*.csv) for importing into other
applications such as Microsoft Excel or Word. To Export the file, click the “Export” button at the bottom
right hand side of the grid. A file save window will appear. Amend the file name as required and select a
different directory as required from the drop down selection at the top of the screen.

Click the “Save” button and the file will automatically save as a .csv file for importing into other
applications.

       

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MULTIPLE FILE EXPORT 

It is possible for users to export batches of data files as well as individual files via the records table.
Within the records table, by highlighting an individual record and then pressing the right hand mouse
button you will be presented with a small menu with the option of “Export to Database.” This will open a
standard Windows Save window, and the user is able to create a new database to save the selected data
file.

If more than one file is to be exported, the user is able to either click on the first required file and hold
down the left hand mouse button while dragging down to the last required file, or click on the first file,
press and hold the shift key and click again on the last data file required. Once the range is highlighted, a
right hand mouse click will return the menu allowing for the export to database function to be used.

DATABASE MANIPULATION 

In manual section various tools and techniques available for users to manipulate the data file database
will be overviewed. These tools and techniques allow the user to find and analyze data as quickly and
efficiently as possible. The various tables of data will be reviewed and the different options available for
each display will be explored.

EXPLORER WINDOW 

The Explorer window displays the available data files within the database. The system utilizes a ‘Windows
Tree’ format to enable users to quickly search through the files.

The file name format is in keeping with the legacy file names and provides the date and time of download
along with the serial number of the ShockLog unit used for monitoring.

Click on a given file and the File Viewer will display the Report tab for the selected file. The Explorer
window will open the file showing the number of events, number of summary records and number of slot
periods within the data file.

The events can be further expanded to show each individual event as separate entries. In the Event tab,
with the events listed individually it is possible to quickly change between the individual events by double
clicking upon the event number.

While in any of the tabs, it is possible to view a number of events together. Click in the box to the left of
each event number (will enter a check and change the background to yellow). Initially only the last event
selected will be displayed on the main viewer screen. The headers have changed slightly and no longer
display the various tab options. This is because additional windows are opened for each of the events
checked.

Now that the events are opened, it is possible to restructure the screen view using the cascade and tile
options under the View menu. This option will be detailed later in the manual.

Each individual event can now be used as in the Events tab, with full zoom capability and the cursor bar
to provide additional data. The additional text information is not available on the right hand side of the
screen but g value information and the number of milliseconds at the cursor point are displayed in the
bottom left hand corner of the screen.

       

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RECORDS TABLE 

The Records table provides an alternative file selection to the Explorer window. The advantage of the
Records Table over the Explorer window is that the user is able to sort and re-order the data files within
the Records Table making it a powerful search tool.

Column Data
The Records Table is constructed in a tabular format with various columns of data for each of the
data files within the database. The main columns are as follows:

Download Date Provides the date and time that the data file was downloaded into the
database.
User Comment When downloading a file, users are offered the opportunity to enter a
comment; this comment will be displayed in this column, up to a
maximum of 15 characters.
Model Displays the type of ShockLog used to record the data file.
Serial No Displays the serial number of the ShockLog device.
Events Provides the total number of events recorded within the data file (Warn &
Alarm added together).
Warns Shows the number of Warning events.
Alarms Shows the number of Alarm events.
Summaries Displays the number of summary periods recorded during the data file.
Slots Shows the number of Slot periods recorded during the data file.

To move around the Records table, the user can move up and down by either the center wheel
on a mouse (if available) or by using the scroll bar on the right hand side. When the Records
table is in a landscape view there will be no need for a scroll bar to move left and right as all
columns will be visible. However, should the user decide to dock the Records table in a portrait
position, a scroll bar at the bottom of the table will be presented and will enable the user to move
left and right through the columns.

File Sorting
In the Record Table, it is possible to change the order of the display by any of the columns,
enabling the user to search for specific sections of data. By clicking on the title of a column, the
database will be sorted by the information held within that column. By clicking the column again it
is possible to change between the ascending and descending views of the data.

For example, if a user is interested in knowing all of the files downloaded from a ShockLog with a
specific serial number, click on the title of the Serial Number column to put all of the files into
serial number order. All data files from the same serial number will be displayed together.

Likewise, if the highest number of events is of interest, it is possible to sort the database via the
events column and quickly identify the files with the highest number of events.

In order to return the database to its original setting, sort the files via the Download Date Time
column and the data will return to date order.

Hyperlink to Additional Information

From the Records table it is possible to hyperlink to any of the data files being viewed. Double
click on the Download Date Time column on the desired file. This action will open the selected file
in the Report tab view.

To change files, double click on a different file and the system will change files. Whatever view
the user is in when a file is selected, the Report tab view will be opened.
       

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EVENT TABLE 

The Event Table displays all of the events, both Warning and Alarm, from a selected data file. The table
provides details of an individual event and allows the user to sort the information to identify information
such as the most significant event in terms of shock or the modulus value. In addition, the table provides
a number of hyperlinks directly to other related sections of data.

Column Data
The Event Table is constructed in a tabular format with various columns of data for each of the
data files within the database. The main columns are as follows:

Show Slots A hyperlink button to the time slot data associated with the event.
Number The event number that represents the order the event data has been recorded in.
Please note that the first event of any ShockLog data file is 0 (zero) and not 1
(one).
Event Date Displays the date and time the specific event was recorded; relates to the
ShockLog internal date and time and may vary with the PC date settings if the
unit was set up in another time zone.
Duration Shows the length of time in seconds that the event lasted and can be 1, 2, 4, 8,
16, 32, 64, or 128 seconds.
Range Displays the g range that the ShockLog was set to when recording the event.

Rate The effective sample rate that the ShockLog recorded the event at and will be
dependent upon the compression selection made by a user when setting up the
ShockLog unit. All events are sampled at 4,096 samples per second, but
depending upon the compression required and the user selections made the
recorded sample rate may be lower.
Temp. The temperature recorded via the internal thermistor at the time of the event.
Max X, Y & Z These columns show the maximum g value seen on each of the axes during the
recorded event.
Modulus The Event Modulus which is the vectored X, Y and Z data, calculated with the
following formula: Modulus = Sqrt(XSample ^ 2 + YSample ^ 2 + ZSample ^ 2).

To move around the Event table, the user can move up and down with either the center wheel on
a mouse (if available) or by using the scroll bar on the right side. When the Event table is in a
landscape view there is no need for a scroll bar to move left and right as all columns will be
visible. However, should the user dock the Event table in a portrait position, a scroll bar at the
bottom of the table will make it possible to move left and right through the columns.

File Sorting
In the Event Table, the user has the capability of changing the order of the display by any of the
columns, making it possible to search for specific sections of data. Click on the title of a column
and the database will be sorted by the information held within that column. Click the column again
and it is possible to change between ascending and descending views of the data.

For example, if interested in knowing all of the events within the data file with high modulus
values, click on the title of the Modulus column to put all of the events into modulus value order.
Likewise, if interested in the highest g value on Y axis, it is possible to sort the database via the
Max Y column and quickly identify the events with the highest g value for the Y axis in the events.

To return the database back to its original setting, it is necessary to sort the files via the Number
column and the
database will be back to event number order.

       

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Hyperlink to Additional Information

From the Event Table it is possible to hyperlink to the Slot graphs and the event graphs for
individual events. The Show Slots column has a button to click upon for each event. By clicking
on this button the main File Viewer screen will move to the appropriate section of the slot graphs,
zoomed into the section that relates to the event time period.

If the user now wishes to view the event curve for this specific event, there is a choice of linking
straight to it from the Slots tab or from within the Event Table. From the Event table, it is possible
to hyperlink by double clicking any of the Number column, the Event date or the graphic next to
the date.

By clicking on any of these options the user will go to the selected event curve within the Events
tab and will be able to interrogate the event curve as explained earlier in this manual.

It is possible to continue clicking on different events and the File viewer will continue to update
the event curve as the user works through the events from the Event Table. Additionally, once in
the Event tab, it is possible to scroll through the events using the arrows in the top right corner.

MENU OPTIONS 

In this manual section all of the available menu options and features that have not already been
discussed will be covered.

FILE MENU 

New
The “New” option in the File Menu allows users to create a new database. This feature is used for
various reasons including the creation of archive databases, creating unique databases for
different companies or departments etc. By clicking on the option the user will be presented with
a save file window. Enter the desired name into the ‘File Name’ box at the bottom of the window.
Ensure the file is being saved in the correct directory, which can be selected via the drop down
window at the top of the screen.

While viewing a database, it is possible to identify the current database by the name presented in
the information bar at the top of the screen. In addition to the Database name, you will also be
presented with the data file name currently opened for viewing.

Open
The “Open” option from the file menu provides the user with the ability to open different
databases that have been created. Users can open archive databases or different databases for
different parts of the company / organization.

Click “Open” in the menu, the user will be presented with a file ‘Open’ window and will default to
the ShockLog directory created for storing ShockLog databases.

When the desired database has been found, click the appropriate file name and then click
“Open”. The ShockLog software will appear to close but will automatically reopen, this time with
the selected database opened. The name in the header bar will now show the new database
name. To change back, follow the above procedure and select the default database “ShockLog”.
Databases from different directories can be selected and the ‘Look in’ drop down menu can be
used to search different directories as required.

       

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Import
The “Import” function under the file menu allows users to import data files into the current
database. Generally, this feature will be used to import legacy ShockLog data files that a user
may have recorded on their system and wishes to view under the new software package.

The download process of ShockLog products will automatically import the data files into the
opened database and will not require the import option. However, should a problem occur with
the automatic importation of data files following a download from the latest ShockLog ranges, it is
possible to import the data file through this method.

To import a single data file, select the “Import” option from the file menu. The ShockLog Data
directory will open and show a list of data files. The system default will display data files from the
latest generation of ShockLog units ending with .sl_sdr. To select one of these files, click on the
desired file and then click “Open”. The system will take a few seconds and the file will appear at
the bottom of the Explorer window and in the Records Table.

If the user wants to import legacy data files, it is necessary to change the “Files of Type” to
.sl_data, which represents older legacy data files. Once the desired file has been selected, click
“Open”. For more details, refer to Importing Legacy Data Files section

Should the user wish to select a number of files at the same time, i.e. a complete directory of
legacy files, this is possible within the same menu option. Go into the “Import” menu option and
select the file type (new or old), click on the first file, then if it is a list of files, all in order, press
and hold the ‘Shift’ key on the keyboard and then click (with the mouse) on the last required file.
The whole selection is highlighted. If this is all of the desired files, click “Open” and all of the
selected files will be imported. Please note this procedure may take a couple minutes for the
computer to complete the importation depending upon how many files are being imported.

If the desired files are not listed all together, it is possible to select any group of files using the Alt
key on the keyboard. Click on the first of the data files, press and hold the Alt key, with the mouse
proceed to click on all of the desired data files, one at a time, until all of the files have been
selected. Once all files have been selected, release the Alt key and click on the Open button with
the mouse. All of the files will now be imported. The process can take several minutes depending
upon the number of files being imported.

Import of Legacy Data Files

In order to convert the legacy data files, it is necessary to import them into the database.
Under the File menu select the “Import” option.

A file selection window will appear.

       

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If the data file has been downloaded using the latest software, the correct directory will
appear, and it will only be necessary to change the file type to view the old style data
files.

Select (*_sl_data).

A list of available data files will be displayed. Highlight the desired file and click “Open”.
After a few seconds the file will appear at the bottom of the Explorer Table window.

If it is necessary to import data files that have already been downloaded with the old
ShockLog software, change the data directory to that of the old software data directory.

Highlight the required data file and click “Open”.

If there are a number of data files to be imported, follow the process as described above,
but instead of selecting a single file, find the first file in the list, click on the file, hold the
shift key and click on the last file of interest then release the shift key. A range of files will
be highlighted and by clicking the “Open” button, all the files will be imported. This
operation can take several minutes and the software will appear to be doing nothing until
the files begin to appear in the Explorer Table.

It is also possible to select a number of specific files using the control key to highlight the
required files from within the list. Clicking the “Open” button once the desired files have
been highlighted will import the files.

Export
The Export function has been covered in the individual sections of Slots, Summaries and Events.
The Export option under the file menu works in a very similar style but instead of focusing on one
section of a data file it focuses on the option to export the complete data file or selection of data
files. It should be noted though that this export facility can also be focused down to exporting a
small section of a data file just as if it had been entered from the Slots, Summaries or Events.

The data file being viewed from the Explorer window will be highlighted as the main option.
However, no data will be selected for export.

On the left side of the Export window an Explorer tree style display will appear. The user will have
an option of “All records (x)” with X being the number of files in the database, or the long
description of the data file currently being viewed. On the right side a number of tools to narrow
down the export criteria are available.

A number of options are available for downloading all of the files (or some of the files) within the
database. Click in the tick box next to the “All records” entry on the left side. The box to the right
will be filled with a list of the data that is to be exported with ticks to the side, which will include:

 Download Data
 Warns
 User Comment
 Alarms Model
 Summaries
 Serial no
 Slots Events

       

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If the user does not want to export any of this data, click the tick to blank the selection box. To
highlight all of the boxes again, click on the “All Data” button and all of the ticks will be filled in
again.

There are two slide bars on the right hand side of the screen. When exporting all records, these
will represent the data files within the database. The user is able to move these bars left and
right to select the range of files to be exported right down to an individual data file. Once the user
has selected the data required and the data files for the information to be extracted from, click
“Export”.

The system will display a “Browse for Folder” window that allows the user to select the desired
export location for the file. Select the directory where the export is to be stored and press “OK”.
Alternatively, it is possible to create a new directory for the export file by selecting “Make New
Folder”. Upon pressing this button, the system will create a new folder under the current directory
and name it “New Folder”. To change the name, right click on the new folder and select
“Rename”. Type the new name, press return, and save the export file to the new directory.

The Export will create separate comma delimited files for the different sections of data being
exported. These files can be opened in such programs as Microsoft Excel and the data can be
used to further analyze the journey or storage period.

Export GPS Data

The “Export GPS Data” option exports a file’s GPS data to a *.GPX file which can be uploaded to
a number of sites for displaying. Either GPSVisualizer or Google Earth is recommended. The
combined Summary and Event GPS positions are used to create the route information and ‘Pins’
are used for the events. Each pin will show the event number when cursor hovers over it, and
when clicked, an event summary is shown. 

Delete
The “Delete” option under the File menu allows users to remove data files from the database and
must be used with extreme caution.

To remove a file, select it from the Explorer Window, go to the file menu, and select ‘Delete’

The following window on the right will appear warning the user that a complete data file is about
to be removed from the database. Click “OK”, the file will be deleted, and the user will be
returned to the Explorer Window.

Report
The “Report” option allows the
selection of various results/graphs
from a record into a RTF (Rich
Text Format) file. RTF files are
easily read by a large number of
word processing packages
including WordPad, Microsoft
Word, OpenOffice.org Writer and
IBM Lotus. Once opened in these
packages, the document can be
formatted to produce a detailed
report.

       

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After selecting a location to save the file, simply check the appropriate boxes to add information
to the report.
When selecting individual events, users can click on “All Data” to automatically select the values
recorded on all three axes for the entire duration of an event.

The Separator drop down menu allows the user to select the character used to separate fields in
the export data.

The auto option will use the separator commonly associated with the computer’s language
setting. Other options for a separator can be manually set via the drop down menu as a comma,
semicolon or space.

Click the “OK” button to create the report.

Print
The printing options under the File Menu consist of 4 sections and provide the following
functionality:

Print – Prints to the default (or selected) printer and will print the current view within the file
viewer screen depending on the current tab being viewed.
Report – Will generate the one page report, giving users a summary of the slots and
events seen in a given recording period.

Slots – Will print the Slot graphs and will create a page for each of the slot graphs
currently being viewed in the slot tab.

Summary – Generates a selection window, providing the user with the ability to select
the columns of data of interest (in Summary Tab). Additionally users are able to insert a
custom report title that will be printed on the top left side of the report.

Events – Generates a print out of the event currently being viewed (in Event Tab).

Print Screen – Sends the whole ShockLog software screen currently being viewed to the printer.
It will include the Explorer window, Records Table, Events table and any other window currently
being displayed on the ShockLog software screen.

Print Setup – Opens the Microsoft Printer selection and setup window, which can be used in the
same manner as any Microsoft windows package.

Print Preview – Allows users to view what is going to be printed before committing it to paper.
When selecting this option the user will first be presented with the Microsoft Printer selection and
set up window. Selecting print from this window will display the print document on the screen and
offer the users the ability to print the document if satisfied with what is being displayed.

TOOLS MENU 

Graph / Unit Options

This window provides users with several options including customizing the color settings for the
graphs and changing the units of measure being displayed. To change the color settings for a
given graph parameter, click on the desired parameter button, i.e. ‘Max Pk X’, and an additional
window showing a color pallet will be presented. The user has the choice of selecting any of the
standard colors displayed on the front or creating a custom color by selecting the “Define
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The units of measure to be displayed can be changed with the options on the right side of the
window.

Acceleration Defined as g, m/s2 or ft/s2

Pressure Displayed as bar or lb/sq in.
Temperature Displayed as Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Velocity Displayed as cm/s, m/s, ft/s or in/s.

Additional options can be selected by checking the following checkboxes:

Limit Software Filtering Relates to the post processing filters on the Event graphs. When
this box is checked and the data file being viewed has a
frequency filter of less than 250Hz, this feature will limit the
filtering options to the filter value set in the settings. For example,
if the settings file had a frequency filter setting of 90Hz, the
highest filter setting available for post filtering will be 90Hz. If
this option is not checked then the filter options available will be
250Hz and lower. The default setting is to have this option
selected.

No Range Bars Relates to how the event graphs will be displayed when the
events have not been recorded at 4,096 samples per second. If
this option is selected it will present the graph as a smooth line,
taking the mean values between the min and max values of the
compressed data. If it is not checked the user will see the range
bars, i.e. the range between the max and min values in each
group of compressed data. This option must be selected for
every journey.

Language Select the language to be used. The first option (“Invariant

Language”) is the PC’s default language setting.

Unicode CSV Select if the data exported is in Unicode CSV or ASCII

Data Paths
The Data Paths option displays the directory routes that are currently set for the XML, Setup Files
and Data files. The XML files are configuration files for the ShockLog accessories and should not
be touched by users unless instructed to do so by the ShockLog Technical Support team. The
Setup and Data files path show the default settings of where these will be stored and any
changes that are made here will change the directories where such files will be stored and
searched for future use. Any changes within this section should be made with extreme caution
and advice should be taken from the ShockLog Technical Support Team prior to making such
changes.

Communication Port
The selection of communication ports is generally only required when using serial communication
and the system is unable to automatically select the correct serial connection. Users are able to
select from the drop down menu the appropriate port being utilized. To find the correct port being
used by the computer, users must check under the device manager within the computer control
settings. Contact IT if it is unclear how to proceed.

       

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With this option, users are also able to select the baud rate at which the ShockLog will
communicate. There are times when a slower baud rate may be required. If the user is
experiencing communication difficulties, slowing the baud rate may resolve the problem.

Compact and Repair Database

Compacts and repairs corrupted databases.

Export Current Record as a Database

Exports the currently selected record as an Access database.

Restore Default Settings

Restore Default Settings will restore the ShockLog to settings when it was first installed. Any
custom settings and directory paths that the user has set will be removed. When selecting this
option the user will be presented with a warning that all current settings will be lost. If “YES” is
selected, the default settings will be set. It is not be possible to revert back to custom settings
after restoring default settings. Please use extreme caution with this option.

Save Current Settings

This feature allows users to save the screen settings with their own preferred layout. Once a user
is happy with where they have the different tables and screens docked, they are able to save
these settings so that if another user moves things they are able to restore their preferred
settings.

Restore Saved Settings

Is a user has saved their preferred settings and they should get moved up, by clicking on this
option all settings will be returned to the last saved settings.

Unit Radio Setup

Unit Radio Setup is used to program an individual ShockLog unit with the correct network
name/address for the RF Base unit. The settings are the factory defaults and the same as the
standard settings of the RF Base unit.

If the user has more than one network or just wanted to change the name for security reasons, it
is possible to program the RF base from the “Radio” window by selecting the “Base Station”
button and creating a specific name. In order to program the individual ShockLog recorders the
user would need to use this option and enter the same details as on the RF Base. Once the user
has set up the desired names, the information must be sent using the “Setup” button in the
Communications window. The ShockLog unit must be connected to the PC via the USB for this
setup.

Read Last GPS Data

When a ShockLog 298 unit with the GPS module installed is attached, it is possible to request the
last positional information recorded. This feature will indicate where or not the antenna is in view
of the satellites.  

Create Edit User Setup List

Allows the user to edit and delete setup files created for the ShockLog

       

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VIEW MENU 

Opening the View menu presents the user with a list of different screens, sections and buttons that can
be activated or deactivated in the ShockLog software.

Status Bar Shown at the bottom of the screen; contains information in

relation to a connected ShockLog unit. By default the status bar
will be visible but can be switched off through the use of this
option
iButton Interface Opens a new window allowing users to interface with the iButton
options. This function is fully described earlier in this manual.
Setup Opens a new window allowing the user to create or modify
ShockLog setup files. This function is fully described earlier in
this manual.
Communications Opens a new “dockable” window that allows users to
communicate with an attached ShockLog device. This function is
fully described earlier in this manual.
Password Setup Button Enables or disables the Password button on the
Communications window.
Security Log View Allows the users to view the security log from a downloaded file
Security Log Button Enables or disables the Security log button on the
Communications window.
View Read Setup Allows the user to view the current setup
Processed Data Removes known anomalies from the data being viewed
View Home Tab Enables the home screen in the File Viewer

WINDOWS MENU 

The Windows menu allows the user to open and arrange various viewing screens to maximize the
available data.

By hovering over the New Window option, an additional menu appears to the right side listing a number of
different screens and tables that are available.

The Explorer, Record Table, Events Table, Slot Breaks Grid, and Radio Table and are all dockable
windows and are explained in detail earlier in this manual.

Tile Vertical and Tile Horizontal options are used to rearrange the file viewer screens when more than
one are being used at the same time. For example, if a user selects a number of events to be viewed at
the same time, it is possible to have these displayed in different ways. The user can have the events tiled
on the screen so that all of the graphs can be seen at once. It should be noted that if the user tries to view
more than four graphs at once, it is difficult to view them in a tile view is likely the better option.

The Close All option will close all screens currently open within the file viewer area except for the main file
viewer screen with the Report, Slots, Summary and Event tabs. This feature is a very useful tool if a large
number of event graphs have been viewed at the same time.

HELP MENU 

The Help menu contains the ShockLog Essentials User Manual as well as the ‘About’ option that will
provide details as to the current version installed. Here, users can also select if they’d like to
automatically check for software updates.

       

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