Restoring Data Log Files

As we have just seen, there are times when the detector can restore files that may otherwise have been considered lost. These steps that we will look at apply to data that has NOT been overwritten by another computer application. In the latter case, it is likely that the data will be permanently lost. For a detailed analysis of this procedure, feel free to refer to page 66 of the owner's manual. So, let us take a look at the steps that are involved to restore lost data. In fact, it is quite simple.

Restoring Data

From the basic GasAlertMicro 5, you will need to press the down arrow. You will then be informed that the unit is running a self test. If the test is successful, you will be notified that the files have been restored on the LCD display screen. Then, you will need to confirm that the files are indeed restored by using your computer. When you see the normal operation screen display, deactivate the detector.

Take out the memory card (M5-MMC) and insert it into the appropriate slot on your computer or laptop. You will need to navigate the section known as “my computer” and look for the list of drives that are available. You will find the card under the removable drive option. Select this icon and access a file called logfile0.csv. Double click on this file. It will then open so you can verify that the data has been successfully restored. If for whatever reason this file does not display, you should make certain that the card is properly inserted into the computer and you have clicked on the removable drive icon. You can simply remove the card from your computer and reinsert it into the detector once all of the information is verified (it is recommended that you save the information prior to removal, however).

Formatting Your Memory Card

Note that this option is for your computer as opposed to the detector. You will need to insert the card into the appropriate drive and access the My Computer section. Find removable disks and double click on the icon. Select logfile0.csv and choose to delete it. After this is done, remove the card from your computer. Reinsert it into the detector and activate the detector. Once again, the startup test will begin. When the test is completed, you will be given the option to either format or restore the disk. Choose the restore option.

The LCD screen will tell you that the formatting process has begun. A bar graph will also show the approximate amount of time that is remaining before the formatting is complete.

If for whatever reason this fails to solve the issue or the data is still lost, it is likely that there could be another problem. Should this appear to be the case, you will need to refer to the section of your owner's manual entitled troubleshooting and the subsection MMC/SD Card errors. We will next look at how to import data logs into Fleet Manager II.