There are problems that could be reported by the Product Link PL102C system but the problems are not caused by the Product Link PL102C module. The following section describes the problems. This section contains steps that are used to determine the possible cause. The module, the antenna, and cables should be visually inspected for damage. Verify that there are no loose connections.
Description of the Problem:
The intervals between reports are erratic.
The Product Link PL102C system depends on several communication links in order to transfer data from the machine to the office. The following procedures assume that these communication links are operating properly. The proper communication links are listed below:
- The cellular network is operational in the geographic area of concern. The cellular coverage is confirmed by clicking the "Status" tab on the Caterpillar Service Tool software screen.
- The worldwide network of Caterpillar's computers is passing messages to the Equipment Manager (EM) software.
- EM is configured properly and the software is functioning.
The Product Link PL102C module should not be replaced without verifying that these issues have been investigated. Contact the Help line at 1-800-765-0999 for aid in resolving these issues.
Test Step 1. ACCESS THE PRODUCT LINK THROUGH CATERPILLAR SERVICE TOOL.
- Connect Caterpillar Service Tool to the machine.
- Verify that the Product Link PL102C is available.
Expected Result:
The Product Link PL102C module is available.
Results:
- OK - The Product Link PL102C module is available. Proceed to Test Step 2.
- NOT OK - The Product Link PL102C is not present in the Caterpillar Service Tool screen.
Repair: Verify that the wiring for the Product LinkPL102C has been installed correctly. Refer to Special Instuction, REHS2143, "Confirm Wiring Harness Connections". Step 4 of the procedure in the "Confirm Wiring Harness Connections" section, checks the wiring with a multimeter. If the ECM (Product Link) is not available, refer to System Operation Troubleshooting Testing and Adjusting, RENR8115, "Electronic Service Tool Does Not Communicate with ECM".
Stop.
Test Step 2. VERIFY THAT THE PRODUCT LINK MODULE IS IN POWER MODE 1.
- Go to the Caterpillar Service Tool "Status" tab.
- Verify that the "Power Mode Status" is "Mode 1". Verify that the "Key Switch Status" is "On".
Expected Result:
The "Power Mode" for the machine is "Mode 1" and "Key Switch Status " is on.
Results:
- OK - The Caterpillar Service Tool screens are correct. Proceed to Test Step 3.
- NOT OK - Caterpillar Service Tool screens are not correct. Even if this explains the current reports that are arriving at the office, proceed to 3.
Test Step 3. VERIFY THAT THE PRODUCT LINK MODULE MONITORS THE MACHINE RUN STATUS PROPERLY.
- Go to the Caterpillar Service Tool "Status" tab.
- Start the machine.
- Verify that the "Power Mode" changes to "Mode 1".
- Verify the "Engine Running Input" switches to "Engine On".
- Verify that the "Key Switch Status" is "On".
Expected Result:
The Caterpillar Service Tool Status tab changes to "Power Mode 1" and "Engine On". The "Key Switch Status" should be "On".
Results:
- OK - The Caterpillar Service Tool screens are correct. The Product Link should send four position reports and the Product Link should send one SMU report daily until the Power Mode changes to "Mode 2". The power mode can be viewed in Equipment Manager. Proceed to Test Step 4.
- NOT OK - The Caterpillar Service Tool screen shows "Engine Off".
Repair: Verify that the alternator R-Terminal wiring has not been damaged. It is likely that the machine's SMU and Product Link PL102C's total operation hours no longer match. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Operating Hours Discrepancy".
Stop.
- NOT OK - The Caterpillar Service Tool screen shows "Power Mode 2" or "Power Mode 3".
Repair: Verify that the wiring for the key switch and +Battery is correct. If necessary, repair the wiring.
Stop.
Test Step 4. CHECK THE INSTALLATION OF THE ANTENNA.
Observe installation of the antenna for theProduct Link. Verify that the antenna is installed with a clear view of the sky. The antenna must be in a location that is free from interference. Examples of interference include the following items: devices on the roof of the machine that emit power, other antennas that are close to the Product Link PL102C antenna, machine located indoors, machine parked under large signs that are lighted and machine parked under power lines.
Expected Result:
The antenna is installed as per guidelines in Special Instruction, REHS2143, "Select a Location for the Antenna".
Results:
- OK - The Product Link PL102C module antenna is installed properly. Verify that all of the connections for the antenna are tight. A test message can be sent in order to verify communications. Go to the "PLM Commands" menu in Caterpillar Service Tool. Select the "SMU" and "Positions" option. After selecting the "SMU" and "Positions" option a message will be transmitted to Equipment Manager. Equipment Manager can be used do verify that the message was transmitted. Monitor the performance of the communication in order to verify that reports are not erratic. Stop.
- NOT OK - Installation of the antenna is not optimal. Accept the current performance of the communication or reinstall the antenna at a more appropriate location. Stop.