We are in the process of detailed engineering for a Mark IV to Mark VIe upgrade. We are not doing the migration. Does anybody have guidance on downloading the Mark IV software backup? This seems to be the only reliable means to ensuring all data points are integrated into the Mark VIe software. GE told us that software backup is only available on Mark IV "plus" models. Is that accurate?

 

It's absolutely possible to get the download information from any Mark IV (non+ or +).

But if you're NOT doing a migration, then it's not necessary to have the data downloads from the Mark IV. As long as your drawings are 100% accurate and you provide all the Control Constant printouts and scaling information, it can be done without the downloads.

 

Probably this is not required. GE will have all the required Data for your existing turbine/system.Even you can take the print out of the control constant/input-output/rungs with the help of printer for your records (if you does not want to print on paper, you can take it SOFT Printed as described in one of the earlier thread).

I have gone through the similar phases. we have successfully upgraded the Mark-V to VIe with the help of GE.

 

Sorry for the Error.........

We upgraded Mark-4 to Mark-6e

 

There is procedure of software dump of Mark IV from either the hyper terminal or through procomm plus. Can you send the procedure for the same from Hyper terminal or Can you tell how to get the software Procomm plus as I am having the software back up procedure through procomm plus.

Regards
Inst.Engineer

 

ProComm Plus was a command-line (DOS) program used for serial communications. Most PCs these days use the MS-Windows operating system, and it is supplied with HyperTerminal. Follow the instructions in HyperTerminal to set if for the proper communications parameters per the Mark IV Maintenance Manual. Per wikipedia, DataStorm Technologies, makers of ProComm and ProCommPlus are no longer in business.

I've tried to find ProCommPlus for a couple of years now, and haven't even been able to find a copy on eBay. Anyway, again, it's not necessary. Any serial communications program will work.

The biggest problem with most notebook/laptop PCs these days is the lack of a serial port! So, make sure the PC you will be using has a serial port. USB-to-serial port adapters can be used, but can add another layer of complexity to the process. From painful experience, use an adapter from a quality manufacturer. Some of the extremely inexpensive central Asian models have horrible drivers that can ruin your PC, your day, and your week.