User Guide

Practical Theory: Understanding Computer Types
8-1
8. Understanding Computer Types
When installing the BMDM program, select one of three computer types: Local, Central or
Service. This section explains the types of computers.
8.1. Central Computer
For managing many sites, use a Central computer. This can be a remote computer with one
modem, or two modems for more than 100 monitors. A computer continuously running the
BMDM can automatically poll the monitoring systems, test for normal status, answer calls
from alarming monitors, receive and store data in a central database, report problems to
personnel, and list conditions on the String Status screen.
If using only one site with a Central computer, you may connect the computer to a monitor
RS-232 rear port for continuous viewing of battery and monitor status. In this configuration,
no other Central computers may exist for the same site.
You may temporarily use a portable computer as the Central computer. To manually extract
data, connect the computer via modem or RS-232 Local port. This type of Central computer
is the least desirable because it cannot automatically poll units for status and automatically
extract data or receive calls from alarming monitors.
Only use one Central computer for all monitors. This is important because only a Central
computer removes data permanently from monitor memory.
A Local computer set up as a workstation clears data from the hardware after extraction. If
using a Local computer as a workstation, you do not need a Central computer to extract the
data.
Select Central Computer when you want to:
Connect a computer to manage one or more monitors and have the computer manage the
database. Only a Central computer updates the time when passing midnight.
A Central computer can do the following:
Set alarm parameters and test intervals.
Collect data manually or automatically, which permanently removes the data from monitor
memory.
Report string and monitor status automatically.
Upon an alarm occurrence, page personnel, fax or email a report, and sound an alarm.
Control more than 1000 monitors from a remote location (not on-site).
Assign location, battery, and string names when setting up a new system.
Calibrate a monitor when the Central computer is on-site.
Note You may set up an on-site, remote (off-site) or notebook computer as Central, but there
must be only one Central computer polling a monitor. A serial multiplexer is required when
using more than one monitor with an on-site computer.