1997/11/17 Caterpillar

All Machines Equipped With Vital Information Management System (VIMS)

Description

The 129-3906 Portable Vital Information Management System (VIMS) Training Aid is now available.

Vital Information Management System (VIMS) is the electronic system used to monitor the operation of all the systems used on Large Mining Products. The VIMS Training Aid provides realistic simulations of VIMS and is specifically designed for use by training instructors in a classroom enviroment. The realism of the training aid allows the student to easily master diagnostic techniques and confidently move from the classroom to the field.

Features And Benefits

* Reduces or replaces the need for a machine to be present during training.

* Facilitates VIMS training in a classroom environment.

* Simulates actual field problems and permits trouble shooting in the classroom.

Components

The Vital Information Management System (VIMS) Training Aid is a portable stand-alone unit. The training aid consists of the following components:

* Quad Gauge Cluster Module

* Speedometer/Tachometer Module

* Message Center Module

* Keypad (Off Highway Truck or optional Wheel Loader)

* Service Lamp

* Truck Payload Lamps

* Action Lamp

* Action Alarm

* Key Start Switch

* VIMS Main Module

* RS-232 serial port for connecting a laptop computer with simulation software to input simulation signals.

RS-232 service port for connecting a service tool with VIMS software to upload (source and configuration files) and view real time data or download VIMS stored data.

* A 9 pin Deutsch® HD-10 connector for data link communication. The Data Link connector will be used in the future for connecting to Additional training aids (i.e. Engine, Transmision/Power Train (EPTC II), Implement and ARC).

Operation

A computer with VIMS simulation software installed is required to make the training aid operational (see Minimum PC Hardware Requirements).

The VIMS simulation software is a Windows based program that provides the Instructor with the ability to run the Portable VIMS Training Aid. The Instructor must select the icon for the machine (Off-Highway Truck, Wheel Loader, or Excavator) to be simulated. After the program is running, the instructor can simulate a machine with key on, engine running at low idle, or run a (30 minute) machine operating cycle.

The instructor has the capability to input preselected Machine or System events. The student can use the message center and keypad or connect the computer with VIMS software to view real time data or download VIMS stored data to diagnose the events.

Purpose

The training aid is designed to perform the following function:

* Use as a demonstration sales tool.

* Provide operator or mine management training.

* Teach system operation, diagnostics and troubleshooting of VIMS.

* Provide hands-on VIMS on-board diagnostics training using the message center module and keypad.

* Provide hands-on off-board diagnostics training using a service tool with VIMS software to upload (source and configuration files),and view real time data or download VIMS stored data.

Training Aid Product Support Warranty

The training aid will be warranted by the manufacturer for a period of one year. For technical support contact:

NOTE: The training aid must be registered in order to receive service and information which may be necessary as improvements are developed and incorporated in the training aids. Information or software updates will be sent to the name listed on the registration card. Make sure the name and address on the registration card identifies who and where you want the information updates sent. Users who have not registered their training aid, please contact Techcom by phone, fax or e-mail listed above.

Support Literature And Software:

A portable VIMS Electronic Training Aid Operator's Manual (Caterpillar Simulator Users Guide) is included. The VIMS Electronic Training AID Operator's Manual will provide instructions to:

* Setup the system- how to connect the cables from the Training Aid to the computer.

* How to install and run the software.

Minimum PC Hardware Requirements For The Computer Used To Control The Training Aid:

* IBM PC or compatible with 486 33MHz SL processor

* 8 Mb of RAM

* 10 Mb of available hard drive space

* 3.5 inch 1.44 Mb diskette drive

* VGA monitor/adapter or higher

* PC or MS DOS 5.0

* Microsoft Windows© version 3.1 or Windows '95

* Mouse and keyboard compatible with Microsoft Windows© version 3.1 or Windows '95

* One RS-232 serial port

VIMS Training Aid Ordering And Part Numbers

Orders must be placed through the Caterpillar parts system, with the exception of part numbers beginning with the prefix "TA". These are Techcom parts and must be ordered directly from Techcom.

The 129-3906 VIMS Training Aid Control Group consist of the following components:

* VIMS Component Panel Group ( no part number)

* 129-3864 Harness Assembly (main module to panel)

* TA9742 Harness Assembly (simulation laptop computer to RS-232 serial port)

* TA9743 Shipping Case

* Simulation Software (VIMS PTA version 3.0)

Additional Required Parts:

* One or two computers (refer to minimum requirement)

* 127-9797 VIMS adapter cord (connects service tool computer to RS-232 port on panel)

Additional Optional Parts Available Through The Caterpillar Parts System:

* 130-5131 VIMS Main Module

* 126-7494 Wheel Loader Keypad

* 7N-1996 Miniature Lamp (bulbs for Action and Service Lamps)

* 7N-5876 Miniature Lamp (bulbs for dash modules and TPMS Lamps)