MMS - Getting Started Manual
MMS - Getting Started Manual
• Model Maker
• Road Maker
• Pipe Maker
• Survey Maker
• Point Cloud Viewer
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
Contents
WELCOME . . . . . .............................................................................................................. 2
SOFTWARE LICENSE...................................................................................................... 3
DISCLAIMER............................................................................................................... 4
CHAPTER 1 ....................................................................................................................... 6
About Model Maker Systems Software Development ............................................... 6
• The Company ....................................................................................................... 6
• Software Development ......................................................................................... 6
• Our internet website ............................................................................................. 6
The www.modelmaker.co.za / www.modelmakersystems.com website is a source
of information about our company, products and services. ........................................ 6
Of special importance is : ........................................................................................... 6
CHAPTER 2 ...................................................................................................................... 7
Getting Started ............................................................................................................ 7
• System Requirements ........................................................................................... 7
• Package Contents ................................................................................................. 7
CHAPTER 3 ....................................................................................................................... 9
Installing the Software ................................................................................................ 9
• Run the Setup.exe from digital media .................................................................. 9
• For users of the hard lock (HL) USB security key ............................................. 13
• For Reading/Writing DWG/DXF files ............................................................... 15
• Network Security Key ........................................................................................ 20
• Using the single workstation package on more than one computer ................... 21
CHAPTER 4 ..................................................................................................................... 23
Upgrading of the Software ........................................................................................ 23
CHAPTER 5 ..................................................................................................................... 25
Start using the Model Maker Systems software ....................................................... 25
• Problems with the Security key or Setup file ..................................................... 25
CHAPTER 6 ..................................................................................................................... 28
Installing the Model Maker Software from the Internet. .......................................... 28
CHAPTER 7 ..................................................................................................................... 30
Using the online Help ............................................................................................... 30
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
WELCOME . . . . .
Dear valued user:
Thank you for purchasing a MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS product. With this you opened
the door to a number of valuable services.
First of all, you have access to the best possible service and support. Our products are of
the highest quality, but should you ever need assistance please do not hesitate to contact us
by telephone, email or via our website.
Second, our commitment to innovative and easy to use products never ceases. Register
yourself for downloads on our website (www.modelmaker.co.za) and we will keep you
informed of all the latest developments as we introduce them.
And finally, we wish to thank you for the confidence you have shown in us with your
purchase. We are pleased to have you as an user of our software.
Please take note that this manual is used for all our software. Where the name of a specific
program should be shown we use “MM/RM/PM/SM/PCV” in place of MODEL- ,
ROAD- , PIPE-, SURVEY-MAKER or POINT CLOUD VIEWER.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
SOFTWARE LICENSE
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS authorizes a single user to make copies of the software
supplied with this manual for backup purposes only.
It is an infringement of the copyright to copy any portion of the manual, or the help files.
You can only use the software at a single workstation with the security key supplied.
You may, however, copy the software onto several work stations and then work at any station
by inserting the HL type security key, OR authorizing the SL type key, on that particular work
station.
A network enabled HL security key will enable a specific number of workstations to be used
over a network at the same time.
The software remain the property of Model Maker Systems until fully paid for. If an amount
payable is outstanding at any stage upon purchase or renewal of a support subscription, Model
Maker Systems retain the right to restrict the use of the software or any support on it.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS shall not be liable for any consequential damages arising from
the use of the software and manual supplied. You must at all times validate your work to
ensure the proper functioning of the software.
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS will not be responsible for any costs incurred as a result of the
use of the software and manual by any user or third party.
The software version, including updates, purchased is sold "as is" and the user will have no
claim to updates, should he find problems in using an older version without a current support
subscription in place.
__________________
Use of the MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS software is subject to the conditions of the
software license and disclaimer. If you do not accept this you must inform Model Maker
Systems in writing about this and please return the complete package of software for a
full refund within 14 days of purchase.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
i) Enclosed with the software and manual of the MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS
software is a small electronic device with electronic connectors. This device is a
hardware lock or security key and the software will not operate without it being
attached properly to the USB interface port of the computer.
ii) Only one security key is supplied for each copy / workstation of a MODEL
MAKER SYSTEMS product. If the device is lost, stolen or destroyed it will be
necessary to purchase another copy of the software to replace it. You should
therefore insure the device for its replacement value, which is the full price of the
software purchased. This value might change according to the latest MODEL
MAKER SYSTEMS pricing.
iii) Should the security key be damaged or otherwise functionally fails, you will need
to return the original to your supplier in order to obtain a replacement at a lower
cost than the full purchase amount.
iv) Should a security key need replacement for older versions of the software there
will be no guarantee that a new key will work on the old software.
v) Should the key supplier discontinue a certain key version, Model Maker Systems
may charge for replacement of keys to work with updated software.
2) The MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS license agreement allows a copy of the software to be
installed on more than one computer, provided it is only used on one computer at any
given time.
3) Model Maker Systems do not guarantee that the software will work on any future versions
of the Windows operating system or new hardware technologies not available at the time
of purchasing the software.
4) The user must ensure he keep a backup of the setup file for each version of the software
he uses. Model Maker Systems may not be able to create setup files for older versions of
the software.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 1
About Model Maker Systems Software Development
• The Company
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS is a close corporation of dynamic, enthusiastic co-workers
that have been developing and marketing survey and engineering design software since
1985. First development, however, started as early as 1979 on a Hewlett Packard computer.
The first DOS versions were available in 1986 after a complete rewrite. During 1991 all
the software was then rewritten to create a DOS graphical environment which was an easier
and more streamlined user interface. In January 1996 the first versions of MS-Windows
were available and as hardware and software design technologies advance MODEL
MAKER SYSTEMS has always and will always follow, to provide users the maximum
benefit.
Today MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS prides itself on serving a substantial user base of
South African companies with most of the larger and better known consultants, mines and
contractors topping the list. Many of these companies have a number of working copies.
International exposure is obtained from sales to companies in Europe, USA, Canada, Latin
America, Australasia, Mauritius and other African countries. At the beginning of 2017
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS software was used by more than 3600 companies in 76
countries.
• Software Development
Our software is developed in close co-operation with all existing users, applying the latest
software development techniques available. It is our goal to provide users with all tools
necessary for high productivity. That is why our software was developed to have a short
learning curve and a user-friendly interface. All commands necessary to use any of the
functions are always available on screen and the graphical format allows users full control
over their work. A context-sensitive help function is available at all times.
Continuous development provides users having a current support subscription with free
updated software annually. Frequent updates are available on our website at
www.modelmaker.co.za . The support subscription also makes provision for contact
between users and the developers. Users’ requests are implemented as soon as possible
through an extensive quality management system.
The different software packages can be used individually and each has different modules
which can be used for specific applications as required. This allows for a highly customized
and cost effective compilation of software packages.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 2
Getting Started
• System Requirements
• Package Contents
Before you run the program, you must connect the security key supplied with the program
to the USB port of your computer. If the device is connected but not recognized it may be
checked using the program – CheckKey.EXE.
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The software is authorized using the key number and your company account number with
Model Maker Systems.
Because MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS packages are all modular and you have purchased
only some of the modules, the Setup File is used to activate / de-activate modules. In
combination with the unique HL/SL security key the Setup File must be present for the
software to run in full access mode. This file must be present in the folder .MMSYSTEMS
as explained below and it will always have the naming MMSxxx_xxx.MRP where the
xxx_xxx will be your security key number. The Setup File will only be valid for a specific
version of the software and it is therefore of utmost importance that you keep a copy of the
setup file with each upgrade of the software. This file is not included in any upgrades you
may receive.
The setup file and all settings are saved under the user account folders on your computer.
The user account is : C:\Users\???? (???? = Your user account folder.)
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 3
Installing the Software
You should have ‘Administrator rights’ on the computer you wish to install the software.
It might in some cases also be necessary to temporarily deactivate any anti-virus software
you have active on the computer.
If using a HL key : Plug the security key into the selected USB port. We recommend you
always use the same port for the key.
Place the MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS digital media on which you received the
software into a USB port. Use Windows explorer to view the files on the digital media.
Run the Setup.exe program.
The MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLER general tab will appear from where you
may choose to install your purchased products. If you have a 64Bit operating system we
recommend you install the 64Bit version of the software.
The installation options for the “MM/RM/PM/SM or PCV” software will appear, and
you can select those you want to install one by one.
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The following show the progress for installing Model Maker. Other programs are
similar.
__________________________
The “Welcome to Model Maker Systems’ installation Wizard” screen will display the
version of the software.
Carefully read through the license agreement. If you use a HL key then take note about
the HL security key that must be insured. Select “I accept the license agreement” and
then press NEXT only if you agree to the conditions stated.
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After accepting the license agreement you will be required to confirm the destination
folder for the installation.
Press NEXT to continue and complete the installation of the selected program.
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After the software is installed the driver for the HL security key, the HASP key driver,
will be installed. Wait for the installation to finish.
If the driver installation is unsuccessful a message dialog will be shown. This will
normally happen when WINDOWS is setup to not allow changes to the system registry.
You must be logged in as SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR to do the installation.
____________________________
With a new purchase of the software you will be supplied with a SECURITY
VALIDATION DISK (Memory stick). On this is the very important SETUP FILE
that will give you access to the software modules you purchased. The installer will
check for an existing setup file on your computer and the following dialog will be
shown.
If you are installing an upgrade you must not use the validation disk and you may exit
from the installation by selecting the NO option.
With the memory stick or storage device containing the setup file in your computer,
select YES and the following dialog will give you the option of changing to the location
of the setup file.
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Change to the drive and folder containing the setup file and select OK. The setup file
will be copied from the disk to the folder as described in section "The Setup File".
The full installation of all required Model Maker Systems files is now completed.
A third party utility , Vector Draw, is used for reading and writing of DWG/DXF files
and this must also be installed if you want to make use of this functionality.
The first installer is for the interface between Model Maker Systems software and
Vector Draw utilities.
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The second installer is for the actual VectorDraw file converter to manage the file
types.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
Read the following only if you purchased the software secured with a HL network
enabled security key (a red key) activating one or more workstations.
You must decide on the computer to which you will attach the network security key.
This will normally be your server but it can be any computer in your network. The
MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS software must be installed on every workstation in your
network.
If the computer with the key will not be a workstation you need to install the HASP
key driver on it to enable communication with the key from the workstations. The
driver can be installed running the following command :-
Browse the installation media with windows explorer and go to folder \CDINSTALL.
Run the program HINSTALL.EXE with parameter -i.
http://localhost:1947
Ensure that port 1947 is open and available for communication with the work stations.
For further information refer to the HELP functions of the Admin. Manager.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
The software may be installed on many computers but can only be used on a single
computer at a time. It can be transferred between computers.
When you start a program that is not active on a computer you will get this
screen. Select “Activate a SoftLock key” and follow the prompts and input.
You will need your SL key number and company account number with Model
Maker Systems.
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1. Use the Un-Authorize button and the program will be closed. Make sure
your data is saved before un-authorizing the SL key.
2. Use the option “Always Un-authorize on program close” recommended for
users that use the same key on different computers frequently.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 4
Upgrading of the Software
You may from time to time purchase an upgraded version of the software or you may
take out a software support subscription with the supplier of your software to always
receive the latest software versions. It may with some upgrades be required to un-install
the previous version before installing a new version. The setup file will be updated for
each version of the software. Always make a new backup of your setup file after
upgrading.
Only users with a valid support subscription will be allowed to use the latest software.
1. The easiest method is to have the software check for updates automatically. You
can activate this method using the top menu SETTINGS – CONFIGURATION
options :
2. You can also manually request a check for updates using top menu function
HELP – CHECK for UPDATES.
If an update is done using this or the automatic check for updates function, files
are downloaded for installation once the program is closed. You must allow the
program that is automatically started after you close the updating program >
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
3. The latest updates can be downloaded from our website. These update files must
be saved to your computer and then be run after it is downloaded to do the
updates.
To get upgrades from our website go to www.modelmaker.co.za and select the
DOWNLOADS option on the main page and then the LATEST UPDATES
option on the next page.
When you access the downloads option for the first time you will have to
register by selecting on the REGISTER option. You may specify your own
Username and Password for future logins. Your details and email address will
be recorded.
After installation of a major/minor version number change upgrade, a new setup file will
be required :
• If you have an active internet connection when running a program after the update,
the setup file will automatically be extracted from the Model Maker Systems
servers.
• If you have no internet connection you can send an email to Model Maker Systems
requesting a setup file at [email protected].
• If you can not send an email you can request a validation code by phoning us at
+27(0)12 665-0120/1/2.
Whenever you contact us by email please always mention your company, security key
number and the software version you are using or want to use.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 5
Start using the Model Maker Systems software
Use the Desktop Icon or from the WINDOWS TASK BAR select START –
PROGRAMS - MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS – MM/RM/PM/SM-MAKER or PCV to
activate the software.
When you run the software for the first time you will be prompted for your company
details. All information must be completed to continue. For a SL key you must also
enter the SL key number, your company account number and a password.
Once you are on the main program screen make sure that your security key number is
displayed in the WINDOWS header at the top of the screen. If the program is active in
TRIAL mode exit, using FILE – EXIT and restart the program again. If you do not get
full access activated, contact your supplier for assistance.
Your working data is never saved automatically. You must use the FILE – SAVE
options frequently while you are working to prevent the loss of your work in the
event of a power failure or other occurrence that will unexpectedly terminate the
• Problems with the Security key or Setup file
program.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
When you activate the software, it will first try to find a valid HL/SL security key on
your computer or the network. Once a key is found it will then try to read the setup file
for that specific key.
Activation options :
• HL key : Make sure the correct key is connected and use the “Activate a
HardLock key”” option. If this fails it might be that your computer’s USB is
faulty. If possible test the key on other computers and if it does not work contact
your software supplier for assistance.
• SL key : Use the option “Activate a SoftLock key”.
• Proxy Settings : For registration of a HL key or authorization of a SL key there
must be a un-restricted internet connection. If your internet is controlled by a
proxy server then make sure the proxy settings are entered.
• Viewer mode : Model Maker may be used in a free viewer mode. This will
allow the viewing of Model Maker data files without any editing capability.
• Trial version : All Model Maker Systems software packages may be used in
“trial”-mode for evaluation of the software. A trial version will be active for 30
days only.
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If a valid security key is found but a valid setup file is not found, the following can be
done :
• If an internet connection is available the software will get a setup file
automatically from the Model Maker Systems server.
• If an internet connection is not available an email request for a setup file will
be initiated . Complete the prompts and a setup file will be emailed within 30
minutes.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
CHAPTER 6
Installing the Model Maker Software from the Internet.
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Use the Software option for all the program you want to download.
The files will download to the default Downloads folder of Windows unless you changed
that.
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MODEL MAKER SYSTEMS INSTALLATION MANUAL
Then run double click both the .msi files to install them.
CHAPTER 7
Using the online Help
All the functions, methods and usage details for the software are explained in detail in
the help files. All main dialog screens will have a HELP button to activate the help
functions for the specific dialog functions. You may also get detail on selected topics
using the HELP option on the main menu.
When using the HELP – SEARCH FOR HELP, option on the main menu you may
have to enter a specific topic for which you need help. When you enter a topic and do
not get the required result, do try other related topics. Your local terminology may
differ from terminology used in the help system and by trying various topics we trust
you will find the help you require.
As an example let’s find help on special keys you can use on the keyboard to achieve
certain functions. When you want to quickly measure a line, angle or position you press
F6 and a special dialog with various measure options will be displayed. Now to find
what other special keys and key combinations can be used select HELP – SEARCH
FOR HELP ON from the main menu. Enter your keyword / topic you think will refer
to these types of keys. Let’s say you enter SPECIAL KEYS. This will show no results
because this was not used when the help files were written. Now enter SHORTCUT
and the list will show the topic SHORTCUTS. Double click on this and a dialog will
display a number of topics related to the word SHORTCUT. Select the option
SHORTCUT KEYS and you will get a full description of all the special keys and key
combinations available.
On the description pages you will see highlighted and underlined words. These are links
to further explanations related to the highlighted word or phrase. Press on the word
MEASURE on the F6 explanation and the relevant dialog is shown. Use the BACK
and FORWARD keys on the top menu to navigate between screens.
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When you found the description for a topic you need, you can print this to obtain a hard
copy of the functions. If you do not find what you are looking for in the help files please
report this with an email explaining exactly what you are looking for.
To effectively start using MODEL MAKER please go through the following HELP
sections.
Use the MODEL MAKER main menu HELP – CONTENTS option.
• WELCOME - Introduction
- Overview
- Getting started
- Main screen layout
• TRIANGLES - Triangle-modeling data
• POINTS - All options
• PAPER - Paper size
• WORKING EXAMPLES - All the entries here and especially
those relating to the functions you
want to use
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