CALSoft Software Support
Welcome to TechniCAL's CALSoft Support page. CALSoft users will find answers to frequently asked questions, error codes, and easy fixes to common problems. Also, we periodically release free updates to CALSoft. Please make sure you are running the current version of CALSoft by checking our download page. If you still have problems, please complete a "support form" and one of our software specialists will contact you to discuss your problem.
Knowledge Base
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The CALSoft Knowledge Base is full of answers to some of our most common questions. If you have a question that is not answered in the CALSoft Knowledge Base, click on the "support form" link on the left and send us a request. We will respond as quickly as possible! |
CALSoft 32 Operational Issues
Erratic or Unexpected Temperature Readings in CALSoft 32
Communications Errors (when trying to use CALPlex datalogger)
I need training on how to use CALSoft.
CALSoft 32 Security Key Issues
Why do I need a security key to run CALSoft?
I lost my CALSoft security key
Problem using a port replicator with CALSoft Security Key
I cannot connect the CALSoft Security Key to my computer because I do not have a parallel port on my computer.
CALSoft 32 ERROR MESSAGES:
"Run Time Error3426 - This action was cancelled by an associated object" Errormessage (Calculate).
"CSW Collect Error#CSW5 Errorin populating Grid" error message
"Document Doesn't Exist" error message
"You must remove the old version of Sentinel before installing new" message
Windows failures on Windows 2000/Windows XP systems relating to the Sentinel System Driver
No CALPlex Box was detected on any of the com ports message
Error 1 - Invalid Function Code
Error 2 - Invalid Packet
Error 3 - Key Not Found
Error 4 - Access Denied
Error 5 - Invalid Memory Address
Error 6 - Invalid Access Code
Error 7 - Port is Busy
Error 8 - Write Not Ready
Error 9 - No Port Installed
Error 9 - ErrorAccessing Key
Error 10- Already Zero
Error 12- Driver Not Installed
Error 13- Communications Error
Error 18- Version Not Supported
Error 19- OS Environment Not Supported
Error 20- Query Too Long
Error 30- Driver is Busy
Error 31- Port Allocation Failure
Error 32- Port Release Failure
Error 39- Acquire Port Timeout
Error 42- Signal Not Supported
Error 57- Init Not Called
Error 58- Security Key Init Error
Error 58- Driver Type Not Supported
Error 59- Fail on Driver Comm
Error 60- Status Unavailable
Error255- Invalid Status
To further troubleshoot your CALSoft 32Security Key:
Troubleshooting Utility for CALSoft 32 Key
CALSoft Windows Operational Issues:
Erratic or Unexpected Temperature Readings in CALSoft Windows
In CALSoft Windows, please check the calibration file that you are using to ensure that it is not adding values different than what you are expecting. For testing, please remove the calibration file (if you have one) and check the datalogger by using no calibration file, by selecting Calibration | NoCalibration from the menu.
The most common cause of erratic readings is grounding. Please check carefully to ensure that the datalogger is grounded properly. It should be grounded to the tested retort's cold water pipe. This point should be clean and free of paint, rust and oil. You must have good metal-to-metal contact. Be sure that the grounding post on the datalogger is tight to secure to ground wire. Sometimes, the only way to guarantee a good ground is to move the ground around and observe the temperatures. Also, be sure that CALPlex is not on the same circuit and that the ground wire is not connected to a common ground that is being used simultaneously by a welding unit.
In some instances, particularly outside of the United States, we have seen where it is helpful to run the computer and CALPlex datalogger off of a UPS or power stabilizer.
Communications Errors (when trying to use CALPlex datalogger)
CALSoft must be able to communicate with the CALPlex datalogger in order to collect data. If you get a Communication Failure message in CALSoft, there are a number of items to consider:
1.Check that CALPlex is plugged in and turned on. The power light on the power supply brick" and on CALPlex itself should be illuminated. For this testing the computer should also be plugged in and not running from battery.
2. Is the communication cable connected to the correct port on the computer? If so, is CALSoft set up to communicate with that port? Go to Edit | Preferences and choose the Collect tab. Under COM Port select the Detect button to have CALSoft check COM1 - COM10 and report back to you if it finds a CALPlex datalogger on any port. Older versions of CALSoft 32 only looked at 4 COM-ports on your computer during the auto-detect sequence. However, the most current version of CALSoft-32 will look at 10 ports. This accommodates computers with multiple USB ports. If your version of CALSoft only looked at ports 1-4, then you should install the update for the most current version of CALSoft to fix this problem.
3.Is the communication cable in good shape? Could the cable be broken? Is there excessive rust/oxidation on the cable connections into the computer and/or CALPlex datalogger? Remove the cable from both the computer and CALPlex to check both ends of the cable. Try scraping the connections if rust or gunk appears. When re-connecting the cable, check to ensure good connections and tighten the screws. If you have questions about the integrity of the cable, try using another cable:
- If using a black CALPlex datalogger, the communications cable is a standard serial cable.- If using a silver CALPlex datalogger, contact TechniCAL for the specifications on wiring a new communications cable.
4.Using the Windows Control Panel, check that the COM port is there, by going to System then the Device Manager tab. At least one COM Port should be listed under Ports.
5.Is the port in the computer enabled? Some laptops disable COM ports so that Infrared ports may be enabled. If you have an infrared port check your computer's guide to see if the COM port needs to be enabled.
6.Is another software program "locking" the COM port? Some programs, such as the software that allows a Palm Pilot to dial into the computer will lock the COM port and allow no other hardware or software to access the port. The one exception is a serial mouse, a mouse will usually still communicate on the port even if no other device will. To test that the port is working, try attaching another serial device, such as an external modem.
7.Finally, try using the datalogger with another computer to make sure that the problem is with CALPlex and not with the way that particular computer is attempting to communicate with CALPlex.
I need training on how to use CALSoft.
TechniCAL offers several training courses related to thermal processing. Our more popular Basic Thermal Processing Course is offered at our main office training facility in New Orleans, Louisiana. Customized versions of this course can be conducted on-site at your facility. For more information, click here.
CALSoft Security Key Issues:
To run, CALSoft requires that a "key" be attached to your computer's parallel port. The CALSoft license agreement permits the software to be installed on multiple computers in your organization. However, only one computer can run CALSoft at any given time - the computer with the key attached. CALSoft will not run without the key. Safeguarding the key is the responsibility of the individual that signed the license agreement and the company for which they work. TechniCAL guarantees the workmanship of CALSoft keys for one (1) year. TechniCAL will not be responsible for lost or misplaced keys. Lost or misplaced keys will not be replaced by TechniCAL.
TechniCAL will not be responsible for lost or misplaced keys. Lost or misplaced keys will not be replaced by TechniCAL. Therefore, if you lose your security key and would like a replacement key, it has always been our policy to charge for a full package. We have seen too many times where a key was reported "lost", only to pop up at another location/plant and is illegally used by that person taking the key. The security key is our only control over piracy of our CALSoft software, and with a very limited market and incredibly high development costs, we are not in a position to just release additional keys.
We do replace faulty keys for a minimal charge (the charge of the key) when they are encountered, but this requires the user to return the faulty key.
Problem using a port replicator with CALSoft Security Key
A port replicator is a device containing common PC ports, such as serial, parallel, and USB ports, that plugs into a notebook computer. The purpose of the device is to allow you to easily attach a portable computer to standard, non-portable devices such as a printer and monitor.... or to a CALPlex datalogger or CALSoft security key.
Most notebook computer manufacturers offer a port replicator as an additional option. There is no standard for port replicators, so you must purchase one that is made specifically for your type of portable computer.
For this reason, it is not possible for TechniCAL to test all port replicators from different manufacturers. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that a port-replicator will work with CALPlex or a CALSoft Security Key.
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I need a USB Security Key. I do not have a parallel port on my computer.
If you have a security key that plugs into the parallel printer port on your computer, but you do not have a Parallel printer port on your computer, TechniCAL will exchange your security key for a USB key. A USB security key plugs into a USB port on your computer.
Because of the cost of these security keys, TechniCAL charges a fee to exchange your parallel key with a USB key. The cost is $95 for each exchanged key plus shipping. Only credit card payments are accepted for exchanged keys. Youu must return your Parallel key in order to get the USB in exchange. Please click here to order an exchange from Parallel to USB security key.
ERROR MESSAGES:
This error message has been found when attempting to run CALSoft CALCULATE module. To recover from this error, uninstall and reinstall CALSoft32. If you get this message, we suggest that you re-install CALSoft32... click here to download the most current version.
"CSW Collect Error#CSW5 Error in populating Grid" error message
The error "CSW Collect Error #CSW5 Error in populating Grid." is usually due to a bad installation, low system resources or some other problem with the computer.It can also occur if the user tries to change the number of leads in a test once the test has begun. Unfortunately, it is a problem that we have not been able to duplicate.
If you get this message, we recommend the following:
-Check to see if your system resources are low, either because of the system configuration or because of other applications being run.
-Check the Task Scheduler. One customer reported that although the Scheduled Tasks folder was empty, the Task Scheduler log showed events occurring at the same time as the CALSoft32 problems.
- Re-install CALSoft32.. click here to download the most current version.
"Document Doesn't Exist" error message
When Using CALSoft with Windows XP Pro, this error has come up when trying to Print or Print Preview. The user gets the error "Document doesn't exist". This only happens when logged in as Normal User in Windows XP. Windows XP allows for an administrator and other users to be set up on a computer. If the normal users do not have administrator rights, it may cause this error message.
To fix this problem, try this... give the user full authority to CALSoft32 directory and all subdirectories in Windows XP. You may need to contact your IT department for this.
"You must remove the old version of Sentinel before installing new" message
In this case, CALSoft32 installs successfully, but during security key installation, a window pops up saying "You must remove the old version of Sentinel before installing new" followed by a second window that the installation failed. If this happens to you, Click Here to go to the section on re-installing the security key drivers.
Windows failures on Windows 2000/Windows XP systems relating to the Sentinel System Driver
This is referred to as the "Sentinel.sys" crash in Windows XP. To recover from this, do the following:
Please print out these instructions, as you will not be able to access them as you will be rebooting the system
1.Reboot the system into SAFE MODE.
a. This can be done by first restarting the system. Click on "Start". Click on Shut Down. Choose Restart.
b. As the system restarts, press the F8 key (prior to the actual Windows startup screen).
c. You will be given a choice of boot-up type, choose safe mode.
2. Uninstall the Sentinel System Driver
a. Once you've booted into Safe Mode, Click on "Start". Click on Control Panel. Click on Add/Remove Programs
b. Find the "Sentinel System Driver" on the list. Remove this item.
c. If you don't see the "Sentinel System Driver" on the list, proceed to step 2A.
2A. Uninstalling the Sentinel System Driver manually (Skip this step if you've removed the driver as described above).
a. Download the file DriverRemove.zip, 295 kb which is the Sentinel System Driver uninstall program.
b. Unzip this file to temporary folder
c. Browse to the folder, double click on the Setupx86.exe
d. Click on "Functions". Click on "Remove Sentinel Driver"
e. Reboot the system.
3. Manually delete the Sentinel.sys file
a. To find this file, open internet explorer
b. In the address field, type in C:\winnt\system32\drivers\
c. Hit enter
d. You should see a list of files. Find Sentinel.sys (it should be alphabetical)
e. Right click on this file, and choose delete. Choose yes when asked "Are you sure".
4. If you are using an application that is protected by a Rainbow Technologies hardware key (CALSoft32), proceed with this step. Otherwise, you should be finished.
a. Download the file, SSD5410-32bit.exe, 4.2 MB ...the Sentinel System Driver v5.41.
b. Unzip this download file to a temporary folder
c. Double-click on setup.exe to install
Please note that if you have any problems downloading these attachments, they may be downloaded (you may have to boot into normal mode of Windows to download this file) from the following locations:
http://www.rainbow.com/support/files/DriverRemove.zip
ftp://anonftp.rainbow.com/support/SSD5410-32bit.exe
No CALPlex Box was detected on any of the com ports message
CALSoft has an auto-detect feature that will find the port that your CALPLex datalogger is connected to. In CALSoft Collect, under the Edit | Preferences menu item, you can chose the Collect Tab. There you will see a detect button. This will look at each port on your computer until it finds the CALPlex datalogger. NOTE: The CALPlex datalogger must be connected AND turned on in order for CALSoft to detect it.
If you get this error message, it means that CALSoft could not find the CALPlex datalogger on any of your COM ports. There are two ways to fix this:
(1)Older versions of CALSoft 32 only looked at 4 com-ports on your computer during the auto-detect sequence. However, the most current version of CALSoft-32 will look at 10 ports. This accommodates computers with multiple USB ports. Upgrade to the most current version of CALSoft to fix this problem.
(2)If you have more than 10 ports on your computer, make sure the CALPlex datalogger is plugged into any of the ports numbered 1-10. Then try the auto-detect feature again.
(3) If you cannot move the CALPlex datalogger and it resides on a port number greater than 10, you can do the following:
-close CALSoft
-open the file calsoft.ini in your CALSoft directory in the notepad text editor.
-Look for the line that reads DC_COMPORT=. Change the number after the equals sign to be the com-port that the CALPlex datalogger is connected to.
- Save and close the calsoft.ini file.
-Run CALSoft. Look in Edit | Preferences in the Collect Tab and you should see the proper port assigned to the CALPLex box.
SECURITY KEY ERROR MESSAGES
Error1 - Invalid Function Code
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
This error may be returned if the key has "disappeared". Check that the key is plugged in.
If this does not fix your problem, then go to the "Troubleshooting CASLSoft Key" section below
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Error5 - Invalid Memory Address
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
The operation could not be completed because the port is busy. This can happen if there is considerable printer activity, or if a key on the port is performing a write operation and is blocking the port. Try the operation again.
The operation could not be performed due to a momentary lack of sufficient power. Try the operation again.
No parallel ports could be found on the workstation. This problem is external to CALSoft, which is only reporting the error. Determine if there are ports on the computer or if there is a hardware failure.
If you get this message, it is because CALSoft detects a security key, but it is the incorrect type of key. In most cases, we have seen this error message when users attempt to use a security key from an older version of Windows. To resolve this problem, use the correct security key provided with your CALSoft-32 package.
If this does not fix your problem, then go to the "Troubleshooting CALSoft Key" section below
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
The system device driver was not installed or detected. Communication to the unit was not possible. Do the following to fix this problem...
The user should reinstall CALSoft32 from the original installation disk.
1. Re-Install CALSoft32, selecting that this is a New Install, not an Upgrade.
2. Try CALSoft32 again.
If this does not work, the user should try to run the key installation independently.
1.In the CALSoft32 directory (C:\Program Files\TCAL\CALSOFT, by default) is a file RainbowSSD5.39.2.exe. Using My Computer or Windows Explorer, double click the file to run.
2.Follow the instructions on the screen.
3.Try CALSoft32 again.
If this does not work, install the security key using the latest driver
1.Download the latest driver here (right-click and chose save)..5.9 MB
2.Double-click the file SPNComboInst1.0.5.zip to open the archive and run the file SPNComboInst1.0.5.exe.
3.Follow the instructions on the screen.
4.Try CALSoft32 again.
The system device driver is having problems communicating with the unit. Reinstall CALSoft32, selecting that this is a "New" installation, not an "Upgrade".
Once reinstalled, open CALSoft32 Collect and select the menu option Edit|Preferences. Go through each tab to ensure that all entries are valid.
Error18- Version Not Supported
The current system device driver is outdated. Upgrade to the most current version of CALSoft to fix this problem.
Error19- OS Environment Not Supported
The operating system or environment is not supported. Please note that CALSoft is designed to run ONLY in the Microsoft Windows operating system environment. Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
The system driver is busy. Try the operation again.
Error31- Port Allocation Failure
Failure to allocate a parallel port through the operating system's parallel port contention handler. This problem is external to CALSoft, which is only reporting the error. Determine if there is a hardware failure.
Failure to release a previously allocated parallel port through the operating system's parallel port contention handler. This problem is external to CALSoft, which is only reporting the error. Determine if there is a hardware failure.
Failure to acquire access to a parallel port within the defined time-out. Try again.
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Error 58 - Security Key Init Error
This error may be returned if the software does not recognize the key that is plugged in. Go to the "Troubleshooting CALSoft Key" section below
Error58- Driver Type Not Supported
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Software Error, Contact TechniCAL
Troubleshooting CALSoft 32 Key
If you are still having problems with CALSoft, we suggest you download the latest driver and troubleshooting software. It is possible the latest driver will fix your issue. Here's what you do:
1. Go to http://www.safenet-inc.com/support/tech/sentinel.asp.
2. Go to the Sentinel Protection Installer v7.0 and select download driver. The download is a zip file so you will need to unzip the file then try to install by selecting the Sentinel Protection Installer 7.0.0.exe file. If this installs, then you are ready and you can try to run CALSoft.
3. If the above does not work, go back to the website listed above and download the latest Sentinel Medic in the Other Downloads section of the page. After downloading, run the Sentinel Medic software. Select the "find keys" and the program will tell us what the problem is with this security key. Print out your results and go to the CALSoft Software Support Form to notify TechniCAL of your problem.
