North Building Technologies

To help you if you encounter difficulties viewing the Compass Network in ObView, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions. ObView is part of the North ObSys software package.

How do I install the Compass OSM?

If you are using ObSys and you wish to view a Compass Network, then you will have to use a Compass OSM. Situations have occurred in the past where engineers will have installed a new Compass Network correctly, but not installed a Compass OSM. Therefore on scanning, nothing appears in the ObView window even though the network is heathly.

To install the Compass OSM, from the ObView home page select the Observer Setup object. Choose an unused OSM slot and type 'Compass' in the text-box. Return to the home page and click on the 'Scan' button on the Toolbar. This will instigate a scan to update the list of objects within ObServer. Once the scan has completed, click on the 'Refresh' button to view the new list. You will now see the Compass OSM.

Why can't I see the Compass Network icon?

If you can see the Compass OSM icon from the view, but not the Compass Network icon, then the Compass OSM was not communicating with the Compass Network at the last scan. If you believe that the Compass OSM is configured correctly, then scan the Object List and refresh as explained above.

How do I configure the Compass OSM?

The easiest method is to set up the COM port and let it automatically find the correct baud rate. Obviously, the Compass Network must have a COL Compass Point connected to the PC via a standard modem cable. Find out which PC COM port is connected to the Compass Network. If the COM port is correct, and no other OSM is using it (or any other application such as HyperTerminal etc), then set Fix Baud Rate to 'No'. This makes the Compass OSM automatically alternate through all possible baud rates until it connects onto the COL Compass Point. Once the correct baud rate has been found, the Comms State object will switch from 'Bad' to 'Good'.

What if this doesn't work?

Should the Comms State object remain 'Bad', even when the view has been refreshed, then there may be a problem with the communications between the COL Compass Point and the PC. Ensure no other applications are using the COM port. Check the Compass Point. Is the green LED on constantly? Remember, if there is any flashing this indicates a problem with the network. Also, is there a cable between the Com Port and the Compass Point? Can you test it with a continuity tester to ensure that it is not broken?

If you require clarification, or have any feedback on this topic please contact our support team for further information.

---