Specifications

PlantScape Server and Client Configuration Guide 197
9 Configuring Alarm Paging
The Alarm Pager licensable option is a background task that monitors Station
alarms to determine which new alarms meet the criteria for paging out and sends
the messages to the appropriate pagers.
Paging starts when messages are placed on the queue. First the system checks
which connection method is being used: either direct connection to a paging
system, or connection by modem to a paging service provider. It then checks that
there is communication with the paging system or modem. If paging is through
the modem, the system then dials the paging service provider number that has
been entered in the communications display and logs on to the provider’s
network. If paging is by direct connection to a paging system, Alarm Paging logs
directly into that paging system.
After successful connection is made, Alarm Paging attempts to send the alarms to
all of the pagers nominated for each individual alarm. Each message in the queue
can be paged out to up to 100 pagers. Message ‘blocks’ are sent to each pager in
turn, until all messages are sent. If the provider allows it, Alarm Paging sends
multiple message blocks at the same time, thus reducing the amount of times it
has to call the provider.
When communications are complete, the alarm pager waits for new messages to
go on the queue. Each message that is sent is logged as an event in the event file.
The event file also logs any communication failures or similar problems.
While the Alarm Paging system is communicating with the provider, every 5
seconds it continues to check the server's alarm queue for alarms which need to
paged.
Delay times are provided for normal paging and escalation to allow time for
alarms to be acknowledged before being paged out or escalated.
plscpcg.book Page 197 Monday, May 28, 2001 10:11 AM