Multi-Tech Systems 7500 - Manual (Page 106)

Basics of ION Architecture ION 7500 / ION 7600 User’s Guide
Page 106 Chapter 4 - Using ION Software
ION Configuration Changes and Module Security
When you make configuration changes to an ION device you are either changing
a value in a module’s setup register (basic configuration) or you are changing the
linkage between two or more modules (advanced customization).
Certain parts of the meter’s operating software are protected against deletion and
tampering, specifically core ION modules, fixed module links, persistent ION
modules, and locked ION modules. Visit Power Measurement’s web site
(www.pwrm.com) for a complete listing of these module types for your meter.
Core Modules
Core ION modules are fundamental to basic device or software node operation.
You cannot create or delete core modules, and in some cases, you cannot configure
them. Those ION modules classed as Core modules are the same in every device
or software node, though not all devices and software nodes support all the Core
modules. The following are examples of Core Modules: Power Meter module,
Communications module, Display Options module, and the Factory Module.
Fixed Module Links
Several of the linkages between core modules are fixed; they are required for the
basic operation of the device. A fixed link cannot be removed. A core module with
fixed links can still be linked to other modules.
Persistent Modules
Persistent ION modules are similar to Core modules, as they are core to the
operation of the device and cannot be created or deleted. These ION modules are
protected, because they are factory-configured to provide important external
control functions. Many External Pulse modules are Persistent ION modules. Do
not reuse Persistent modules.
C AUTION
Persistent modules can be overwritten in Designer. When pasting a default framework onto a meter, use
lock-paste on the Persistent modules, not free-paste. A list of Persistent modules is available on the Library
page of Power Measurement's website, under "ION Device Templates".
Locked Modules
Locked modules provide security for revenue meters. This type of module security
only applies to ION meters with the revenue-lock enabled (RM) order option.
Furthermore, there are varying degrees to locked module security: Fully Locked,
Writable Locked, and Front Panel Locked. Fully Locked security is designed to
protect the revenue related functions within the meter; they cannot be modified in
any way. (Fully Locked modules have their values written via internal meter
methods, as the meter makes calculations based on its voltage and current inputs.)
Writable Locked security allows you to trigger or change the state of the ION
module, but you cannot delete it, link to it, or change its label. Front Panel Locked
security prevents registers from being altered remotely via software; you must use
the ION meter’s front panel to make any modifications to these registers.