GE ALPS Instruction Manual page 294

A.1 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS APPENDIX A
In which format should I save Xpression Builder configurable logic?
A
When configurable logic is created with Xpression Builder, it must be saved with a .BIN extension. The BIN file is a binary
formatted file which is downloaded to the relay. The user should also save the logic with an .EXP extension. The EXP file
saves the graphical layout of the logic. When both formats are saved, the logic uploaded from the relay can be matched to
the graphical layout saved for the configurable logic file. If an EXP file is not created, Xpression Builder will give the relay
logic a graphical layout which is logically correct, but may have a poor layout.
Which do I download first: Xpression Builder configurable logic or relay settings?
First, download protection and general settings using the ALPS-Link program. Secondly, download the configurable logic
into the relay. The order of these two steps is important because downloading configurable logic or settings change the
inputs and outputs of the relay. The last settings downloaded are saved in the relay.
Does ALPS-Link work with Windows NT?
Yes. ALPS-Link versions 3.30304 and later work on Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT platforms. The install pro-
gram will look to see what operating system the user is running and will install the correct executable.
Are the Trip Output Contacts (T1 to T4/T6) polarity sensitive?
Yes. The Trip Output Contacts are polarity sensitive even if the user does not have an SCR model. The internal circuitry
requires the correct polarity for the trip circuit monitor function to operate properly. The contact polarities are shown in Fig-
ures 1–27: ELEMENTARY DIAGRAM WITH DEFAULT I/O (SINGLE PHASE TRIPPING) to 1–30: ELEMENTARY DIA-
GRAM (THREE PHASE TRIPPING).
Can I create a settings file without having a relay?
Yes. The ALPS PC software package includes a program called ALPS-Set which allows you to create a settings file based
upon your relay model number. See Chapter 14: ALPS-SET PC SOFTWARE.
Can I plot the phase and ground characteristics of my settings for the relay?
Yes. The ALPS PC software package includes a program called ALPS-Test which allows you to plot the phase and ground
characteristics from your settings file. See Chapter 10: ALPS TEST PROGRAM.
What format should I choose when saving oscillography data?
If you use the GE-DATA program to view oscillography, save the data in DAFF format. For other comtrade compatible view-
ers, save the data in the COMTRADE format. Note: a readme file in the ALPS/UTIL directory describes the procedure to
convert ALPS oscillography for use with the DL-DATA program.
Why are so many files created when I save oscillography data?
Several files are created when oscillography data is retrieved from the relay because they each serve different purposes.
Saving data in the DAFF format creates an OSC, DAF, and REP file. The OSC file is used to playback a waveform to the
relay. The DAF file is used by the GE-DATA program to view the waveforms and flags within the relay. The REP file con-
tains the fault report and settings in the relay at the time of the fault.
Saving data in the COMTRADE format creates an OSC, HDR, CFG, DAT, ASC, and REP file. The OSC file is used to play-
back a waveform to the relay. The HDR file contains the fault report and the settings in the relay at the time of the fault. The
CFG file contains the configuration of the data such as sample rate and description of channels. The DAT file contains the
actual oscillography data in a binary format. The ASC file contains the oscillography data in an ASCII format. The REP file
contains instructions on saving the oscillography data.
To view the latest version of this FAQ and other documents, visit the GE Power Management Home page at www.ge.com/
indsys/pm.
A-2 ALPS Advanced Line Protection System GE Power Management