Contacting Arad Ltd.

Corporate Offices

Address Arad Ltd. Telephone +972.4.989.7911 Fax +972.4.989.7960

Dalia, 1923900
Israel

Address Arad Measuring Telephone +972.4.993.5222 Fax +972.4.993.5227

Technologies Ltd.
HaMada street,
Yokneam Elite, Email supportarad@arad.co.il
2069206
Israel

United States and Canada

Address Master Meter Inc. Telephone 800.765.6518 Fax 817.842.8100

101 Regency Parkway Toll free
Mansfield TX 76063
USA 817.842.8000
Main line

You can access the Arad website at http://www.arad.co.il. From this website, you can obtain
information about the company, its products, corporate offices, special events and more.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Arad Ltd. The software described in this document is furnished under
a license agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied only in
accordance with the terms of the agreement. It is against the law to copy the software on any
medium except as specifically allowed in the license or nondisclosure agreement. No part of this
manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose without
the express written permission of Arad Ltd. In no event shall Arad Ltd. be liable for any damages
whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business
interruption, loss of business information or other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or
inability to use this product.

Arad Ltd., the Arad Ltd. logos, and all other Arad Ltd. product or service names are registered
trademarks or trademarks of Arad Ltd.

Copyright © 2019 Arad Ltd. All rights reserved.

M11 0126
0./#'V
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Introduction Version compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Conventions in this guide . . . . . . . . . .3
Notices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Typographical conventions . . . . . . . .3
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Chapter 2 Prerequisites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Arad Smart Meters installation . . . . . . . .4
Getting Started
Connecting the NFC reader . . . . . . . . .5
Logging in to Arad Smart Meters . . . . . . .6

Chapter 3 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Meter Info
Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Pipe Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Chapter 4 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Display Settings
Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
The Octave display . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Chapter 5 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Output Settings No Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Pulses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Pulse 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Pulse 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Pulses Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4-20 mA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4-20 mA & Pulse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4-20 mA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Encoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Encoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Encoder + Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Extended Encoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
CZ Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Modbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Modbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Mbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Mbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Sonata Pulse Configuration Guide i

Chapter 6 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Alarm Thresholds
Flow Rate Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Pipe Burst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Reverse Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Chapter 7 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Meter Logs Meter Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Alarms Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Chapter 8 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Clock Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Advanced
RTC Date Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Shabbat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
LCD Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Totalizer Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Volume Totalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Special Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Flow Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Simulating flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Application Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Graph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Configuration Files . . . . . . . . . . . 55
About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Chapter 9 Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Possible issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Troubleshooting
Meter values not updated . . . . . . . . 60
Display and output mismatch . . . . . . 60
Unintended disconnect . . . . . . . . . 60

Chapter 10 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
RS-232 Connection Removing the tamper-protective shield . . . 62
Connecting the communication module to
the water meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Connecting the communication module to
the PC (Windows 7/10) . . . . . . . . . . 65
Arad Smart Meters serial connection
settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Attaching the tamper-free shield . . . . . . 67

Chapter 11 Units used in Arad Smart Meters . . . . . . 68

Glossary

Sonata Pulse Configuration Guide ii

1 Introduction

About this guide

This guide provides instructions on how to configure the Octave water meter
using the Arad Smart Meters software.

Arad Smart Meters is the software used to configure all Arad’s water meters in
the Arad ultrasonic water product line. The interface is simple, yet
comprehensive; it provides all the options needed to customize Octave
ultrasonic water meter measurements to the exact requirements, including
configuration of the data to output.

Octave Configuration Guide 1

Version compatibility
Configuration abilities are dependent on the match of the meter’s software to
the configuration software. The meter’s version is indicated in the Meter Info
tab’s Software section. The Arad Smart Meters version is indicated in both the
top-left corner of the login page, and in the Advanced options About tab. The
following table provides the information for checking version compatibility.

Octave meter version Compatible Arad Smart Meters versions

4.2.16 1.0.0.24

4.02.09 4.0003.57 | 1.0.0.13 | 1.0.0.24

4.01 4.0003.14 | 4.0003.57

4.00 4.0003.14 | 4.0003.40 |4.0003.57

3.17 4.0003.14 | 4.0003.40

3.16 4.0003.14 | 4.0003.40 | 4.0003.57

3.15 4.0003.14 | 4.0003.57

NOTE: Current Arad Smart Meters versions are backward compatible with
older Octave meter versions up to version 3.16.
Arad Smart Meters version 1.0.0.24 does not support Octave meter version
3.15.

Octave Configuration Guide 2

Conventions in this guide

Notices

IMPORTANT: alerts you to a condition that might cause problems.

NOTE: emphasizes important information.

Typographical conventions
• Bold typeface indicates an interface element or dialog box name.

• > indicates the click sequence, e.g., “Click Advanced > LCD Test
means you tap the Advanced tab then choose LCD Test from the
menu.

• Italics are used to denote file names, file paths and user input.

• Quotes are used for indicating values that can be chosen, usually
options in drop-down menus, for example “Forward”.

Terminology
Forward flow in this document is the equivalent of upstream flow in other
documentation, and reverse flow in this document is the equivalent of
downstream flow or backward flow in other documentation.

Due to the prevalence of PCs with touchscreens, the verb “tap” was chosen to
indicate a physical selection action — the equivalent of a mouse click.

Octave Configuration Guide 3

2 Getting Started

Prerequisites
Make sure before you install the Arad Smart Meters application that you have
the required equipment and that the computer meets the minimum requirements
for using the application:

• PC installed with Windows 7 or later

• Arad Smart Meters application

• NFC reader kit (P/N 70000093)

• Octave Configuration Guide (this guide)

NOTE: There is an option to purchase separately an RS-232 module for

communicating with the meter (P/N 96500819).
See RS-232 Connection for information on setting up this module to work
with Arad Smart Meters.

Arad Smart Meters installation

1. A link for downloading the Arad Smart Meters application will be forwarded
to you by your local distributor. Download the file to the computer you will
use to configure Sonata Pulse water meters.
2. Arad IT personnel will perform the installation of the application by remote.

3. After Arad Smart Meters is installed on the computer, the Arad Smart
Meters shortcut is added to the computer’s desktop.

Octave Configuration Guide 4

Connecting the NFC reader
To set up communication between the Arad Smart Meters application and the
Sonata Pulse water meter, you need to attach the NFC reader.

IMPORTANT: When the NFC reader and the meter are in a connected state,
meter output is disabled. Therefore, initial configuration of the meter should be
completed before the meter is installed.

1. Fasten the NFC reader to the plastic adapter (A) and

clasp the adapter + NFC reader to the Octave display (B).

2. Double-click the Arad Smart Meters shortcut on the desktop to start the
software.

3. Log in. See Logging in to Arad Smart Meters.

IMPORTANT: Before removing the NFC reader from the meter always tap
Disconnect. Otherwise the meter remains in a connected state. When the
meter is in a connected state, meter output is disabled.

Octave Configuration Guide 5

Logging in to Arad Smart Meters

IMPORTANT: The logged in user should be an administrator user with full

permissions to all folders.

1. Connect the USB end of the NFC reader to a PC which has Arad Smart
Meters installed on it. The Link led will be lit (green).

2. Start the Arad Smart Meters application. Do so by double-clicking the Arad

Smart Meters desktop shortcut. Alternatively, find the Arad folder in the
Start menu and tap Arad Smart Meters.
The application opens to the Please Login page.

Octave Configuration Guide 6

3. If this is the first time you are logging in, tap Settings (bottom-right) and in
the Connection tab select the NFC check box.

4. Tap Back to return to the log in page.

5. In the Password box enter the password that was provided to you by Arad
IT personnel when installing the application, and then tap Login.
The application opens.
The left panel provides tabs for reaching the various configuration options.

The tabs are arranged in the logical configuration sequence. The meter is
supplied with configuration defaults, which you may need to change per
your specific setup.
In the following chapters we describe the various configuration options
provided in each of these tabs.

Octave Configuration Guide 7

3 Meter Info

Overview
The Meter Info tab presents the Octave water meter’s ID and version
information. It also presents the pipe standard this meter supports.

Meter
Meter ID - the meter’s unique ID.

HW ID - the meter’s board ID.

Calibration Date - the date the meter was calibrated (table 3).

Software
Version - the meter’s embedded firmware version.

Checksum (0x) - the firmware’s checksum value.

ASIC Version - the version of the application-specific integrated circuit

embedded in the meter’s board.

Compilation Date - the date the meter’s firmware was compiled.

Octave Configuration Guide 8

Pipe Standard
Type - the pipe standard the meter complies with. The options are either ISO or
AWWA.

Octave Configuration Guide 9

4 Display Settings

Overview
The Display Settings tab is for configuring the Octave meter’s display (LCD).
Here you set the meter’s display units, number of digits following the decimal
point and mode, and also determine whether the meter’s display settings are
applied to the output stream of the connected module.

Display
Units - set the meter’s flow rate measurement units. The available
flow rate-volume unit combinations are:

• Flow Rate: m3/h - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: Lt / s - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: GAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: Ft3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.F.

• Flow Rate: IGPM - Volume: IGAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.I.

Octave Configuration Guide 10

 • Flow Rate: BPM - Volume: Barrel

• Flow Rate: Lt / m - Volume: m3

Refer to the Glossary for unfamiliar abbreviations.

Update Modules Units - select this check box to synchronize the units of the
meter’s connected module output to the units set for the meter’s display.

Volume resolution (Digits) - set the display resolution, which is the number of
digits after the decimal point. The maximum value is “5”.

In the following examples we show you how 789 liters (cubic meters) are
presented per the value you enter in this field.

Entering “0” uses a 1000 liter resolution, therefore as 789 is less than 1000
liters nothing will be shown in the display:

Entering “1” uses a 100 liter resolution, and as there are 7 hundreds in 789
liters, “7” will be shown in the display:

Entering “2” uses a 10 liter resolution, and as there are 78 tens in 789 liters,
“78” will be shown in the display:

Octave Configuration Guide 11

Entering “3” uses a 1 liter resolution, and as there are 789 liters, “789” will be
shown in the display:

Display x 1000 - not yet implemented. (Keep the default of “Disable”.)

Mode - select the meter’s accumulated volume display mode:

• “Forward Volume” – the display presents only the measure of forward

flow (FWD).

• “Net Signed Volume” – the display presents the result of the forward
flow minus reverse flow calculation, indicating reverse flow with a
minus symbol, e.g. - 789.

• “Alternate (Forward/Reverse volume)” – the display alternates

between presenting forward flow (FWD) and reverse flow (BCK).

• “Net Unsigned Volume” – the display presents the result of the

forward flow minus reverse flow calculation using zero as a reference
point.
Reverse flow will be indicated by counting backwards from zero. For
example 1 liter of reverse flow will be 0.999 when the Volume
Resolution is set to 3 digits.
Forward flow will count from zero forwards, for example 1 liter of
forward flow will be 0.001 if the Volume Resolution is set to 3 digits.

Alternate Timer (sec) - when the selected mode is “Alternate (Forward/Reverse

volume)”, set the time for displaying each direction’s measurement. The default
value is “2”, i.e. every two seconds the display alternates the flow direction.

Temperature
Mode - determine whether water temperature measurements are presented on
the display or not, and if yes — which temperature scale to use.

• “Off” – no temperature measurement is displayed.

• “Celsius (°C)” – display measured temperature in Celsius degrees

• “Fahrenheit (°F)” – display measured temperature in Fahrenheit

degrees

Octave Configuration Guide 12

NOTE: Tap Save to keep your changes. Tap Revert to return the display
settings to the last saved configuration.

After tapping Save you will be prompted with the following message:

Tap Yes to apply your changes. All data preceding these changes will be purged
from the data logger.
Tap No to continue without applying any changes to the display settings.

If needed, tap Record to create a manual output file per the recording
configuration in Application Settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 13

The Octave display

Volume’s mode
Pulse resolution Total volume
Resolution

Flow Flow No measurement

Output rate Various alert
direction mode* NFC reader conditions Temperature
connection Shabbat
mode
(or serial
connection if
applicable)

* Legend of output mode display values:

[Blank] Pulses

4-20 mA 4-20 mA
AMI TYPE: 0 Encoder and Extended Encoder

AMI TYPE: 1 Mbus

AMI TYPE: 2 Modbus

AMI TYPE: 3 CZ Module

Octave Configuration Guide 14

5 Output Settings

Overview
The Output Settings tab is for configuring the output per the target output
module.
This chapter describes the configuration settings per the target output types
and modes as follows:

• No Output

• Pulses

• 4-20 mA

• 4-20 mA & Pulse (only 4-20 mA, or 4-20 mA & Pulse)

• Encoder (only encoder, only pulses, or encoder + pulse)

• Extended Encoder (only encoder, only pulses, or encoder + pulse)

• CZ Module

• Modbus (only Modbus, or Modbus + pulse)

• Mbus (only Mbus, or Mbus + pulse)

At the bottom of the page for each type of output configuration there are three
controls: Save, Revert and Record.

After you complete output configuration, tap Save to keep your changes. Tap
Revert to return the output settings to the last saved configuration.

And if needed, tap Record to create a manual output file per the recording
configuration in Application Settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 15

No Output
Select when there is no readout device connected to the water meter and no
output is needed; information is read directly from the meter’s display.

This output type may be the default if the meter was ordered with no specific
configuration prerequisites and no attached module. The technician will
configure the meter afterwards per the module assigned to it.

Octave Configuration Guide 16

Pulses
The focus of the Pulses output type is on volume output.

A pulse is feedback for the system of how much water passed, per the
calculation of measurement units, pulse width and resolution.

The Pulses module can output data of two pulses. Both pulses measure volume,
but you can split the pulse output to two channels and apply a different output
mode to each of these pulse measurements.

IMPORTANT: The Pulse module must be connected to the Octave meter (if
it is not already connected) within 60 seconds of disconnecting Arad Smart
Meters in order to reset the module’s bit to zero for proper pulse
measurements.

Units – Set the measuring units for the meter’s pulses:

• m3 – cubic meters

• GAL – gallons

• Ft3 – cubic feet

• A.F. – acre feet

• IGAL – imperial gallon

• A.I. – acre inch

• Barrel

Octave Configuration Guide 17

Pulse Max Flow (per the set display units) – Limit the flow to a value that
ensures reliable pulse detection.

When the meter is connected to a 3/4″ pipe and the units are cubic meters, the
recommended value is 8 m3/h. When the meter is connected to a 1″pipe and
the units are cubic meters, the recommended value is 12 m3/h.

Pulse 1
Mode – Set the pulse’s accumulated volume output mode:

• “Disable” – output is disabled

• “Net” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume minus reverse

volume

• “Forward” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume

• “Reverse” – pulse output is a measure of reverse volume

• “Forward & Reverse” – pulse output includes a measure of both

forward volume and reverse flow for control devices that support
input of two pulse data streams through a single input channel
Resolution (unit) - Set the pulse resolution, i.e. the volume per one pulse, for
the selected measurement unit:

• 0.001

• 0.01

• 0.1

• 1

• 10

• 100

• 1000

• 10000

NOTE: The available resolution values are influenced by the value set for the
Pulse Max Flow parameter.

Octave Configuration Guide 18

Width - set the width of the pulse in milliseconds. This will communicate a pulse
for each passed width count.

For example, if you have set the resolution to 1 liter per pulse and the pumping
flow rate is 3.6 cubes per hour, the result will be one pulse per second. The
calculation is the total liters divided to the number of minutes, divided to the
number of seconds in a minute:
--------------------------
3600  60 
60

This is how a pulse with a 100 ms width would look like in that context:

If the velocity was twice as much (7.2 m3/h), two pulses would fit in one second:

Pulse 2
The fields for configuring pulses are the same, see the “Pulse 1” section for
information on each of these fields. (There is no “Forward & Reverse” mode for
Pulse 2 as the idea of configuring a second pulse is when the pulse output is
split to two separate channels, and you would not use an alternating output
mode in this scenario.)

Octave Configuration Guide 19

Pulses Alarms
Mode - set whether alarm information is included in the output.

• “Off” – alarm information is not included

• “On” – alarm information is included

Alarms Period (sec) - when alarm information is included in the output, set the
alarm signaling pattern that matches your diagnostic & billing device as follows:

1 second issues 9 successive pulses

2 seconds issue 18 successive pulses

3 seconds issue 27 successive pulses

4 seconds issue 36 successive pulses

5 seconds issue 45 successive pulses

Alarm Repeat Time (hr) – when alarm information is included in the output, set
the interval between logging the alarm in the output (if the reason for triggering
the alarm was not resolved within this interval).
Alarms – select the check boxes of those conditions that will trigger alarms (via
the meter’s output that reaches the control center):

• Low Battery – meter’s battery power is low. Alarm will be triggered

when there is about a month of power left in the battery.

• Measurement Fail – failure in collecting the data required for

calculating water flow.

• Leakage – when a given start time passes with the flow above the
configured threshold (see Alarm Thresholds).

• Flow Rate Alarm – when the flow rate exceeds the top threshold
(see Alarm Thresholds).

Octave Configuration Guide 20

4-20 mA
In the 4-20 mA output type, output flow-rate data is indicated by electric current.

This type is commonly used when Octave flow-rate measurements serve as

input for pump controllers. The pump controller matches the flow-rate values to
the pump’s set points to ensure the pump engine is working efficiently. The
pump controller prevents a situation in which the measurements will deviate
from the allowed range set in Octave. Per the measured input from Octave it
instructs the pump to either accelerate or slow down its pace to work within the
range of the optimal set points (minimum and maximum limits).

When using this output type, you will set the minimum and maximum flow rate
limits that correspond to the standard range 4 mA minimum to 20 mA maximum
respectively.

Measurement units are based on the units set for the meter’s Display.

Minimum – set the minimal flow rate for the 4 mA set point.

Maximum – set the maximal flow rate for the 20 mA set point.

Octave Configuration Guide 21

4-20 mA & Pulse
In the 4-20 mA & Pulse output type, in addition to using output flow-rate data
indicated by electric current as a measuring element in a feedback cycle (for
example as input for a pump controller), there is also an option of measuring the
volume of water passing through per the set direction of the pulse.

4-20 mA
Select to output flow rate data as indicated by electric current. Set the minimum
and maximum flow rate limits that correspond to the standard range
4 mA minimum to 20 mA maximum respectively.

Minimum – set the minimal flow rate for the 4 mA set point.

Maximum – set the maximal flow rate for the 20 mA set point.

Pulse

IMPORTANT: Only in this output type (4-20 mA & Pulse), the pulse is a
‘spread pulse’, i.e., the number of pulses are spread evenly throughout the
entire set width. See following illustrations.

Units – set the measuring units for the meter’s pulses:

• m3 – cubic meters

• GAL – gallons

• Ft3 – cubic feet

• A.F. – acre feet

• IGAL – imperial gallon

• A.I. – acre inch

Octave Configuration Guide 22

 • Barrel
Pulse Max Flow (per the set display units) – limit the flow to a value that
ensures reliable pulse detection.

When the meter is connected to a 3/4″ pipe and the units are cubic meters, the
recommended value is 8 m3/h. When the meter is connected to a 1″pipe and
the units are cubic meters, the recommended value is 12 m3/h.
Mode – set the pulse’s accumulated volume output mode:

• “Disable” – output is disabled

• “Net” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume minus reverse

volume

• “Forward” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume

• “Reverse” – pulse output is a measure of reverse volume

Resolution (unit/Pulse) – set the pulse resolution, i.e. the volume per one
pulse, for the selected measurement unit:

• 0.001

• 0.01

• 0.1

• 1

• 10

• 100

• 1000

• 10000

NOTE: The available resolution values are influenced by the value set for the
Pulse Max Flow parameter.

Octave Configuration Guide 23

Width – set the width of the pulse in milliseconds. This will communicate a pulse
for each passed width count.

For example, if you have set the resolution to 1 liter per pulse and the pumping
flow rate is 3.6 cubes per hour, the result will be one pulse per second. The
calculation is the total liters divided to the number of minutes, divided to the
number of seconds in a minute:
--------------------------
3600  60 
60

This is how a spread pulse with a 100 ms width would look like in that context:

If the velocity was twice as much (7.2 m3/h), two pulses would fit in one
second with an even spread:

Octave Configuration Guide 24

Encoder
The Encoder output type supports a commonly-used AMR/AMI interface
protocol (UI-1203), which outputs the meter ID and volume. When needed, you
can use this module to also output the count of pulses to the encoder’s counter.
Mode – choose which mode you will be using for Encoder output:

• “Encoder” – output only the standard encoder data (meter ID and

volume)

• “Pulses” – output only the count of pulses

• “Encoder + Pulse”– output both standard encoder data and pulse

count

Encoder
AMR Serial Number – the meter’s auto-detected serial number (Automatic
Meter Reading).

Units – set the output units. The available flow rate-volume unit combinations
are:

• Flow Rate: m3/h - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: Lt/s - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: GAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: Ft3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.F.

• Flow Rate: IGPM - Volume: IGAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.I.

Octave Configuration Guide 25

 • Flow Rate: BPM - Volume: Barrel

• Flow Rate: Lt/m - Volume: m3

Refer to the Glossary for unfamiliar abbreviations.
Num of Digits – set the number of digits left of the decimal point that will be
sent as the read water volume. The protocol supports up to 8 digits.

For example, if the Octave reading is 123456789.125 m3 and the Encoder

output is set to 8 digits the transferred reading will be: 23456789. If the
Encoder output is set to 3 digits the transferred reading will be: 789.
Resolution – set the flow rate resolution, i.e. the number of digits after the
decimal point.

• 0.0001

• 0.001

• 0.01

• 0.1

• 1

• 10

• 100

• 1000

• 10000
Counter Type – set the identifying type for the counted volume

• “Net Unsigned” - data of the net flow, i.e. forward flow minus reverse
flow, using zero as a reference point to indicate whether the net
volume is forward flow or reverse flow (reverse flow counts from zero
backwards: 0.999, 0.998....)

• “Forward” - data of forward flow measurements

• “Backward” - data of forward flow measurements

Update Mode – set the intervals between marching data out of the meter to the
reading system.
• “Period” – the data will be marched out the meter every n minutes,
per the interval you set the interval between in the In Minutes field.

• “Once” – the data will be marched out the meter once a day per the
time you set in the First field.

• “Twice” – the data will be marched out of the meter twice a a day at
the times you set in the First and Second fields.

Octave Configuration Guide 26

Pulse
Mode – set the pulse’s accumulated volume output mode:

• “Disable” – output is disabled

• “Net” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume minus reverse

volume

• “Forward” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume

• “Reverse” – pulse output is a measure of reverse volume

Units – set the measuring units for the meter’s pulses:

• m3 – cubic meters

• Ft3 – cubic feet

• GAL – gallons

• IGAL – imperial gallons

• A.F. – acre feet

• A.I. – acre inch

• Barrel
Resolution – set the pulse resolution, i.e. the volume per one pulse, for the
selected measurement units:

• 0.0001

• 0.001

• 0.01

• 0.1

• 1

• 10

• 100

• 1000

• 10000

Octave Configuration Guide 27

Width (ms) – set the width of the pulse in milliseconds. This will communicate a
pulse for each passed width count.

For example, if you have set the resolution to 1 liter per pulse and the pumping
flow rate is 3.6 cubes per hour, the result will be one pulse per second. The
calculation is the total liters divided to the number of minutes, divided to the
number of seconds in a minute:
--------------------------
3600  60 
60

This is how a pulse with a 100 ms width would look like in that context:

If the velocity was twice as much (7.2 m3/h), two pulses would fit in one second:

Encoder + Pulse
In this mode both flow-rate data and pulse is output data via the AMR/AMI
interface protocol.

See the preceding Encoder and Pulse sections for a description of each of the
parameters to configure.

Octave Configuration Guide 28

Extended Encoder
Extended encoder type output provides in addition to the standard Encoder
output options a Message Type field.

Message Type – select the format in which the data is marched out of the
meter:

• “Standard” – only meter ID and volume data is included in the output.

• “Extended” – the output can include alarm data, pressure values, and
temperature values, in addition to the standard meter ID and volume
information.
Temperature Units – when the selected message type is “Extended”,
determine whether water temperature measurements are included in the
message output or not, and if yes — which temperature scale to use.

• “Off” – no temperature measurement is included in the message.

• “Celsius (°C)” – temperature measurements are in Celsius degrees

• “Fahrenheit (°F)” – temperature measurements are in Fahrenheit

degrees

Pressure Units – when the selected message type is “Extended”, set which
pressure units will be included to indicate pressure measurements in the
message output:

• “BAR”

• “PSI”

Octave Configuration Guide 29

Send Flags – when the selected message type is “Extended”, set which data
will be included in the message output:

• Alarms – for example, leakage and measurement fail

• Units – the unit values of the flow rate and volume

• Pressure Value – the measured pressure

• Temperature Value – the measured temperature

• Volume – the total measured volume

• Current Flow – the current flow measured

• Max. Flow – the maximum flow measured

Octave Configuration Guide 30

CZ Module
The Contazara (CZ) module is available for customers in Spain. If you need to
configure Octave to use this module, set the output type to “CZ Module” in Arad
Smart Meters and tap Save.

This will enable the option of configuring Contazara module output afterwards,
using its dedicated, standalone Contazara configuration interface.

Please contact your Arad distributor in Spain for more information.

Octave Configuration Guide 31

Modbus
When using the Modbus protocol to output data, specify the communication
settings that match your environment. There is an extensive range of data that
can be marched out the meter using this protocol.

Mode – select the mode that suits your requirements:

• “Modbus” – the output will include meter readings only

• “Modbus + Pulse” – the output will include pulse data as well

Modbus
AMR Serial Number – the meter’s auto-detected serial number (Automatic
Meter Reading).

Units – set the output units. The available flow rate-volume unit combinations
are:

• Flow Rate: m3/h - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: Lt / s - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: GAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: Ft3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.F.

• Flow Rate: IGPM - Volume: IGAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: A.I.

• Flow Rate: BPM - Volume: Barrel

• Flow Rate: Lt / m - Volume: m3

Octave Configuration Guide 32

Refer to the Glossary for unfamiliar abbreviations.

Slave Address – set the slave address used for the Octave meter in the range
of 1 to 247.

Flow Resolution – set the resolution for the transferred flow-rate output.

Baud Rate – specify the maximum data transfer speed (bits per second) your
serial communication channel supports, per the speeds Octave supports:

• 2400

• 4800

• 9600
Volume Resolution – set the resolution for the transferred volume output.

Parity – select the parity scheme to apply for detecting single-bit errors.

• Odd

• Even

• None
Stop Bit – keep the default of “1 Stop Bit”.

Working Mode – set what triggers data transfer from Octave to the master
device:

• “By Request” – Octave sends specific data in response to a specific

request from the master device

• “Polling” – Octave sends all data in response to periodic polling by

the master device
Polling Period (min) – when the working mode is “Polling”, set the polling
interval in minutes. The value should be an effective choice that considers the
time it takes for data to change, thu s optimizing battery use.

Alarms – select the check boxes of those conditions that will trigger alarms (via
the meter’s output that reaches the control center):

• Low Battery

• Measurement Fail

• Leakage

• Flow Rate Alarm

Octave Configuration Guide 33

Pulse
Mode – set the pulse’s accumulated volume output mode:

• “Disable” – output is disabled

• “Forward” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume

• “Reverse” – pulse output is a measure of reverse volume

• “Net” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume minus reverse

volume
Units - set the measuring units for the meter’s pulses:

• m3 – cubic meters

• GAL – gallons

• Ft3 – cubic feet

• A.F. – acre feet

• IGAL – imperial gallon

• A.I. – acre inch

• Barrel

Octave Configuration Guide 34

Mbus
When using the M-Bus protocol to output data, specify the communication
settings that match your environment.

Mode – select whether the M-Bus output should include Pulse data

• “Mbus” – only M-Bus supported data is included in the output string.

• “Mbus + Pulse” – both M-Bus and Pulse data is included in the

output string.

Mbus
AMR Serial Number – the meter’s auto-detected serial number (Automatic
Meter Reading).

Units – set the output units. The available flow rate-volume unit combinations
are:

• Flow Rate: m3/h - Volume: m3

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: GAL

• Flow Rate: GPM - Volume: Ft3 (cubic feet)

Refer to the Glossary for unfamiliar abbreviations.
Slave Address – set the slave address used for the Octave meter in the range
of 1 to 247.

Flow Resolution – set the resolution for the transferred flow-rate output.

Octave Configuration Guide 35

Baud Rate – specify the maximum data transfer speed (bits per second) your
serial communication channel supports, per the speeds Octave supports:

• 300

• 2400

• 9600
Volume Resolution – set the resolution for the transferred volume output.

Working Mode – set what triggers data transfer from Octave to the master
device:

• “By Request” – Octave sends specific data in response to a specific

request from the master device

• “Polling” – Octave sends all data in response to periodic polling by

the master device
Polling Period (min) – when the working mode is “Polling”, set the polling
interval in minutes. The value should be an effective choice that considers the
time it takes for data to change, thus optimizing battery use.

Device ID – a number assigned to the Octave device that the master uses to
identify this meter’s ordinal position relative to other slave devices.
Data Telegram – select the data to be included in the reply-to-master telegram:

• Alarms – data per the selected alarm types (see below)

• Supplier Info – the meter’s serial number (AMR Serial Number)

• Temperature – water temperature data

• RTC Meter – the time stamp of when the meter’s measurements were
read

• Forward Volume – data of forward flow measurements

• Backward Volume – data of reverse flow measurements

• Net Signed Volume – data of the net flow, i.e. forward flow minus
reverse flow. Reverse net flow is indicated with a preceding minus
sign (-)

• Net Unsigned Volume – data of the net flow, i.e. forward flow minus
reverse flow, using zero as a reference point to indicate whether the
net volume is forward flow or reverse flow (reverse flow counts from
zero backwards: 0.999, 0.998....)

• Flow – flow data, i.e., flow resolution and measurement units

Octave Configuration Guide 36

Alarms – select the check boxes of the alarm conditions that will be included in
the telegram, if the Alarms check box was selected.

• Low Battery

• Measurement Fail

• Leakage

• Flow Rate Alarm

Pulse
Mode – set the pulse’s accumulated volume output mode:

• “Disable” – output is disabled

• “Forward” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume

• “Reverse” – pulse output is a measure of reverse volume

• “Net” – pulse output is a measure of forward volume minus reverse

volume
Units – set the measuring units for the meter’s pulses:

• m3 – cubic meters

• Ft3 – cubic feet

• GAL – gallons

• IGAL – imperial gallons

• A.F. – acre feet

• A.I. – acre inch

• Barrel

Octave Configuration Guide 37

Width (ms) – set the width of the pulse in milliseconds. This will communicate a
pulse for each passed width count.

For example, if you have set the resolution to 1 liter per pulse and the pumping
flow rate is 3.6 cubes per hour, the result will be one pulse per second. The
calculation is the total liters divided to the number of minutes, divided to the
number of seconds in a minute:
--------------------------
3600  60 
60

This is how a pulse with a 100 ms width would look like in that context:

If the velocity was twice as much (7.2 m3/h), two pulses would fit in one second:

Octave Configuration Guide 38

Resolution – set the pulse resolution, i.e. the volume per one pulse, for the
selected measurement units:

• 0.001

• 0.01

• 0.1

• 1

• 10

• 100

• 1000

• 10000

• 10000

• 10000

NOTE: The available resolution values are influenced by the value set for the
Units parameter.

Octave Configuration Guide 39

6 Alarm Thresholds

Overview
Alarm thresholds determine which conditions trigger alarms. In Octave the
alarms are presented on the meter’s display and are logged in the meter’s logs.

Configuration
Activation Quantity (the volume unit selected for the meter’s display) – set
the volume of measured water after which alarm detection will be active. This
prevents triggering false alarms before the meter is in full operational state.

Octave Configuration Guide 40

Flow Rate Alarm

NOTE: Flow rate alarms are not indicated on the meter’s LCD. They are
indicated only in the logs.

Threshold (the flow rate unit selected for the meter’s display) – set the
minimum value for activating the flow rate alarm. When the flow rate is above this
threshold the alarm is triggered after a given start time passes.

NOTE: The threshold value needs to be equal or above the minimum value
the device can measure.

Start Duration (time unit) – set the number of minutes/seconds (whether it’s
minutes or seconds depends on the selected display units) that must pass with
a flow rate above the threshold to trigger the alarm. If the flow rate decreases to
below the threshold within this period, the start duration count will start anew.

End Duration (time unit) – set the number of minutes/seconds (whether it’s
minutes or seconds depends on the selected display units) that must pass with
a flow rate below the threshold value to stop the alarm. If the flow rate increases
and exceeds the threshold within this period, the end duration count will start
anew.

Leakage
Threshold (selected unit) – set the minimum value for activating the leakage
alarm. When the detected leakage is above this threshold the alarm is triggered
after a given start time passes.

NOTE: The threshold value needs to be equal or above the minimum value the
device can measure.

Start Duration (hrs) – set how many hours must pass with a flow rate above
the threshold to trigger the alarm. If the flow rate decreases to below the
threshold within this period, the start duration count will start anew.

End Duration (min) – set the number of minutes that must pass with a flow rate
below the threshold value to stop the alarm. If the flow rate increases and
exceeds the threshold within this period, the end duration count will start anew.

Octave Configuration Guide 41

Pipe Burst
Currently unavailable.

Reverse Flow
Start Alarm (m3) – set the minimum value for activating the reverse flow alarm.

NOTE: Tap Save to keep your changes. Tap Revert to return the alarm
threshold settings to the last saved configuration.

If needed, tap Record to create a manual output file per the recording
configuration in Application Settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 42

7 Meter Logs

Overview
Meter logs provide information for tracing the meter’s activity. These logs are
useful for technical troubleshooting and for checking water consumption when
customers file disputes.

Meter Logs
Path – tap Browse to browse to an existing folder, or create a new folder for the
meter’s log files on the connected computer.

First Logs – select to log data in minute intervals.

Second Logs – select to log data in hourly intervals.

Flow Events – select to include flow events (e.g. flow rate, leakage, reverse
flow) in the log file.

System Events – select to include system events (e.g. watchdog, critical

change, low battery) in the log file.

Download – tap to download a log file to the folder destination you specified in
the Path field.

Clear – tap to purge all traces, i.e. clear all logs.

Octave Configuration Guide 43

Meter Time – before downloading the log file, select to apply the meter’s set
time to the logged entries. (See Clock Settings.)

Local Time – before downloading the log file, select to apply the PC’s set time
to the logged entries.

Configuration
First Logs – enable or disable this minutely logging option.

Duration (minutes) – if first logs are enabled, set the logging frequency in
minutes, e.g. entering “3” will log data every three minutes.

Second Logs – enable or disable this hourly logging option.

Duration (hours) – if second logs are enabled, set the hourly frequency, e.g.
entering “3” will log data every three hours.

Octave Configuration Guide 44

Alarms Logs
Per the selected event types (system and flow), specify which events will be
included in the logged data.

System
Measurement Fail – select this check box to log measurement failure data.

Low Battery – select this check box to log low battery alarm data.

Critical Change – select this check box to log critical change data.

Tamper Detection – N/A

Flow
Leakage – select this check box to log leakage alarm data.

Flow Rate Alarm – select this check box to log flow rate alarm data.

Reverse Flow – select this check box to log reverse flow alarm data.

Pipe Burst – select this check box to log pipe burst alarm data.

Dry Pipe - N/A

NOTE: Tap Save to keep your changes. Tap Revert to return the meter logs
settings to the last saved configuration.

If needed, tap Record to create a manual output file per the recording
configuration in Application Settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 45

8 Advanced

Overview
Advanced settings provide options beyond the basic configuration of the water
meter and its output.

Tapping the Advanced tab presents a fly-out menu from which you can choose
any of the following options:

• Clock Settings

• LCD Test

• Totalizer Data

• Special Functions

• Flow Simulation

• Application Settings

• About

• Exit

Octave Configuration Guide 46

Clock Settings

RTC Date Time

The meter comes preconfigured with a date and time that does not necessarily
match the date and time in the location where the meter is installed and working.

Date – set the meter’s real-time date, i.e. the current date for the location in
which the meter is installed.

Time – tap the field and enter the meter’s current time for the location in which
the meter is installed. Separate the hour from the minutes with a colon.

Day Light – determine whether the meter’s clock should apply DST (daylight
saving time) by selecting the applicable zone from the list:

• “US Zone”

• “EU Zone”

Otherwise, keep the default of “Disable”.

Octave Configuration Guide 47

Shabbat
Indicates whether Octave was configured in the factory with Shabbat settings,
which are based on Jewish religious directives for observing the Sabbath.

• “Off” – the meter was not configured with Shabbat settings

• “On” – the meter was configured with Shabbat settings (there is

usually a sticker affixed on the meter’s display to indicate this as well,
but the sticker may have been peeled off intentionally or
unintentionally)

Enable Communication – this check box indicates whether communication will

be established per the configured interval.

Communication Interval (hr) – the interval in hours between transmitting the

output during the Sabbath. For example, if the value is “4” the output will be sent
every four hours.

NOTE: Shabbat settings apply only during the Sabbath. The meter exits
Shabbat mode automatically when the Sabbath ends and resumes
operation per its regular settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 48

LCD Test
This tool lets you check that the LCD is fully functional.
Targeting specific segments in the LCD is useful for pinpointing issues when
needed.

Normal – tap to bring the LCD to its normal state, i.e. that state in which it
reflects the meter’s Display configuration.

All On – tap to light up all the LCD segments.

All Off – tap to dim all the LCD segments.

Odd – tap to light up all the odd LCD segments.

Even – tap to light up all the even LCD segments.

Octave Configuration Guide 49

Totalizer Data
Use for reading the aggregated volume data from the meter.

Volume Totalizer
Read – tap to apply the read request.

+(m3) – total forward volume read from the meter.

-(m3) – total reverse volume read from the meter.

Octave Configuration Guide 50

Special Functions
Special functions are intended for supervising technicians only.

Octave Configuration Guide 51

Flow Simulation
Simulating flow lets you check that the meter works properly. In flow simulation
you can see on the display whether the meter detects forward and reverse flow.

NOTE: If you are interested in checking Pulse functionality you will need to
add a pulse counter.

Simulating flow
1. Accessing Flow Simulation requires a password. Contact support to
obtain a password for this advanced option.
2. In the Flow [units] either keep the default value or enter a different value to
simulate. Higher values will issue quicker results.

3. In the Pos. Volume [volume units] either keep the default value of forward
volume, or enter a different value to simulate. Supports up to five digits
after the decimal point. To see this on the LCD, adjust the Display Settings
accordingly.

4. In the Neg. Volume [volume units] either keep the default value of reverse
flow, or enter a different value to simulate. Supports up to five digits after
the decimal point. To see this on the LCD, adjust the Display Settings
accordingly.

5. Tap Set to apply the flow simulation settings, or tap Get to get the last
saved values.

6. Select On and then tap Set to start the simulation.

7. Select Off and then tap Set to stop the simulation.

8. Tap the close icon in the top-right corner of the Flow Simulation pop-up
window to close it.

Octave Configuration Guide 52

Application Settings

Graph
Feature not available for current access level.

Recording
Recording output strings are for support purposes. It is recommended to keep
the default settings.

Mode
Mode – select the recording mode:

• “Manual” – enables manual recording. The recording is stopped by

tapping Stop Recording, or will stop automatically after the number
of minutes you entered in the Stops After setting.

• “Auto” – select this option when the recording should stop

automatically after a set number of minutes.

Output Folder – recorded output string files are saved in the location specified
here.

To change the default output folder, browse to the desired destination folder.

Base File Name – each recorded file name is based on the structure of <base
file name> + <time> + <date> and .txt suffix, for example:
Output_15_23_48_13_06_2019__1.txt. Only if needed, change the base file
name.

Output Stream Every [1] Outputs- keep the default of “1”. This field is intended
for the use of supervising technicians only.

Octave Configuration Guide 53

Storage Size Limits
Define the size of each recorded file by setting the maximum file size. During the
recording session, when the recorded file reaches this maximum size, it is saved
(and closed) and a new recording file is opened.

Define also the maximum size for the folder. When the recording folder reaches
this size, recording is stopped.

Type
• “Output Stream” – by default this check box is selected. This records
basic-level information in the recorded output file.

• “Communication Sniffer” – select this check box if you are requested

to do so by Support to include communication sniffer information in
the recorded output file sent for analysis.

• “Debug Trace” – select this check box if you are requested to do so

by Support to include debugging traces in the recorded output file
sent for analysis.

Octave Configuration Guide 54

Configuration Files
When the Octave water meter connects to Arad Smart Meters, the meter’s
current settings are read and saved in a file. The file name is composed of the
base file name, which by default is “CurrentConfig”, and a time stamp. For
example, if you connected to the meter on the 1st of September 2019 at 8:30
PM, the configuration file saved in the output folder would be named
CurrentConfig_20_30_1_9_2019.txt.

It is recommended to keep the default settings.

Output Folder – configuration files are saved in the location specified here.

To change the default output folder, browse to the desired destination folder.

Base File Name – to change the default base file name, enter a new base file
name.

Octave Configuration Guide 55

About
In the About page you see the version of this software that you are using to
configure the water meter.

Octave Configuration Guide 56

Exit
Disconnects and closes the Arad Smart Meters application.

Octave Configuration Guide 57

9 Troubleshooting

Error messages

Error Message Description Remedial Action

• Retry the connection

Action: Connection Error issued when action, i.e. try logging in
trying to log into Arad again.
Error: Send Command
to Meter Smart Meters. • Position the NFC reader
correctly using the
adapter.

• Check your
communication settings
in Arad Smart Meters.
• The physical connection
(NFC reader, RS-232
Error issued when cable) may be faulty:
trying to connect to check that the cable or
the water meter using reader are not damaged.
Action: Start MSI Mode the RS-232 • Check that the PC
Error: Send Command communication recognizes the
to Meter module and in other connected device in the
unsuccessful Windows Device
communication Manager.
scenarios. • Make sure you are not in
Demonstration mode
• When using RS-232
connection make sure
that the port number is
correct.

Action: Connection Error issued when Make sure the NFC reader’s
trying to log into Arad USB cable is connected to the
Error: Illegal Input Value Smart Meters. PC.

Error issued when

trying to connect to
the water meter using Verify that the communication
Action: Start MSI Mode the RS-232
communication module is attached correctly
Error: Time out (matching groove and
Response module and in other protrusion).
unsuccessful
communication
scenarios.

Octave Configuration Guide 58

 Error Message Description Remedial Action
Error issued when
Error If there is no tooltip with
trying to enter a value information on the expected
There are invalid values. that is not in the
range of supported range or type of values, lookup
Please fix them and try the description of the
again values for that parameter in this document.
parameter.

Failed to Start Error issued when

tapping the Record Disconnect and reconnect.
Recording button.

Check that the logged in user

Error issued when has full permissions to all
Error: Download Logs
Failed tapping Download in folders, as generating logs
the Meter Logs page. requires access to system
folders.

Octave Configuration Guide 59

Possible issues

Meter values not updated

Even though you have saved the configuration, you do not see them applied.

1. In the log-in page tap Settings (bottom-right).

2. In the Connection tab make sure the NFC check box is selected and the
Demonstration mode check box is not.

Display and output mismatch

The settings you have applied and see on the display are not applied to output.

There is a short interval (~ 60 seconds) between saving the meter’s

configuration and activating the output module with these settings.

Unintended disconnect
For example when the connection cable is pulled out unintentionally from the
PC, or the NFC reader detaches from the adapter.

1. Plug back in the connection cable to the PC / reattach the NFC reader to
the adapter and make sure all is correctly positioned.
2. In Arad Smart Meters, which remained open, tap Disconnect. This step
should not be skipped!

3. Log in again to re-establish connection and resume use.

Octave Configuration Guide 60

10 RS-232
Connection
Overview
You can order an Octave RS-232 communication module if needed. This
module connects to the meter’s module connection port on the one side, and
ends in a female DB-9 serial connector that connects to your PC’s
corresponding male serial port on the other side.
If you have no serial port on your PC, you can use a USB-to-Serial converter and
connect the Octave RS-232 communication module via this converter to a USB
port.

The Octave RS-232 communication module is supplied with an Allen wrench,

screws and a tamper-proof sealing plug for installing the communication
module, and re-attaching the protective shield or output module afterwards.

To use this module, the meter should be configured to work with serial
connection and you will need to verify that Arad Smart Meters settings have the
correct port set. How to do so is described in the following sections.

NOTE: The RS-232 communication module occupies the output module

connection port, effectively disabling output.

Octave Configuration Guide 61

Removing the tamper-protective shield
The Octave water meter is supplied with either an output module installed, or if
no output module was requested, a tamper-proof protective shield on the
connection port.

As noted above, the Octave RS-232 communication module uses the same
port the output module uses, so you will need to remove either the
factory-installed output module, or the tamper-proof protective shield.
In both cases the procedure is the same.

To do so:

1. Remove the tamper-proof sealing plug by piercing it with a slotted

screwdriver and pulling it out.

Octave Configuration Guide 62

2. Use the supplied Allen wrench to remove the two Allen screws.

3. Detach the protective shield, or output module.

Octave Configuration Guide 63

Connecting the communication module to the water
meter
1. Connect the Octave RS-232 communication module’s connector (A) to
the Octave water meter port’s connector (B) by matching the groove in the
communication module to the narrow protrusion in the meter’s port
connector.

B
A

2. Press the connectors together to ensure the communication module is fully

connected to the Octave water meter.

Octave Configuration Guide 64

Connecting the communication module to the PC
(Windows 7/10)

NOTE: The Octave RS-232 communication module should be already

connected to the water meter.

1. Connect the Octave RS-232 communication module to your computer:

• If the computer has a DB-9 male serial port, connect the Octave
RS-232 communication module to the serial port.

• If the computer does not have a serial port, connect a USB-to-Serial

converter to the Octave RS-232 communication module and insert
the USB end to an available USB port on the computer.
If the connected USB-to-Serial converter is not detected
automatically, install its driver manually.

2. Enter “Device Manager” in the Windows search box to access this tool.

3. In the Device Manager, expand Ports (COM & LPT) and check which port
number is assigned to the device.
In the example below, we used a USB-to-Serial converter to connect the
Octave RS-232 communication module to our computer, and the assigned
port number was “3” (COM3).

4. Note the assigned port number as you will soon use it to configure Arad
Smart Meters serial connection settings.

Octave Configuration Guide 65

Arad Smart Meters serial connection settings
1. Start the Arad Smart Meters application (see Getting Started).
2. In the Login page, tap Settings (bottom-right).

Octave Configuration Guide 66

3. In the Connection tab, clear the NFC check box (if selected) to display the
Serial Connection options.

4. In the COM Port field select from the list of detected communication port
numbers the COM Port number the computer uses for the Octave
communication module.
This is the number you noted when checking this detail (see Connecting
the communication module to the PC (Windows 7/10).

5. Tap Refresh.
This will apply the port setting.

6. Tap Back.

7. Log in.

Attaching the tamper-free shield

Re-attach the tamper-protective shield, or the output module as follows:

1. Match the groove in the protective shield’s female connector to the narrow
protrusion in the meter’s port male connector and press firmly to attach the
parts.
2. Insert the two Allen screws in the screw holes and tighten them gently with
the Allen wrench.

3. Insert the sealing plug in the bottom screw hole and press until it is firmly
lodged.

Octave Configuration Guide 67

11 Glossary

Units used in Arad Smart Meters

Term Definition
A.F. Acre feet

A.I. Acre inch

BPM Barrel per minute

Ft3 Cubic feet

GPM Gallon per minute

IGAL Imperial gallon

IGPM Imperial gallon per minute

Lt Liter
Lt/h Liters per hour

Lt/m Liters per minute

Lt/s Liters per second

m3 Cubic meter

m3/h Cubic meters per hour

Octave Configuration Guide 68