MAS-100 NT / NT Ex

Microbiological Air Sampler

Software Manual
 THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Dear customer
congratulations and thank you very much for choosing a product from MBV AG. We are
pleased to make a contribution to your success.
MBV AG develops and produces precision
microbial air samplers for more than 20 years.
Our uncompromising quest for the best possible
quality has convinced globally leading
companies to rely on our solutions for their most
demanding applications. Our superior product
quality is backed by global availability of
application and service support.
For best performance of your product please
read this instruction manual carefully. The
manual will provide you with the necessary
information for correct and safe use of your new
instrument.
If you need additional technical or application
information, do not hesitate to contact us at
[email protected] or find more information on
www.mbv.ch.

MANUFACTURER
MBV AG
Industriestrasse 9
CH-8712 Stäfa
Switzerland

DISTRIBUTION PARTNER
Merck KGaA
Frankfurter Straße 250
D-64239 Darmstadt
Germany

Note
Up-to-date product information – such as Service Information Letters (SIL) –
are available in the Customer Center area of the MBV AG website
www.mbv.ch.
There, important product after-sales information about changes, issues,
instructions and news is provided to customers.

Page 2 of 56
Document history

Version Released History

 Font changed to Gotham Light
 Name changed to Software Manual
 Hardware Manual changed to User Manual
 spelling error corrected
14.0 03.08.2020  MAS-100 regulus added and calibration instruments named
in Anemometer instead of specific instrument name
 Merck CICD & Trademarks updated
Template mode measurements and particularities described

13.0 11.06.2018 Chapter 3.3: Added information about Patch V1.6.31SP1

 Page 2: Introduced new «Customer Center» on MBV AG
website and removed RSS feed
 Chapter 3.1.2: Added information about Windows
12.0 15.03.2018 installation
 Included new MBV AG logo
Minor typo and format corrections.

11.0 05.04.2017 New PC software V1.6.31

 New template used
10.0 27.06.2016  New PC software V1.6.19
Total rework of document structure

9.0 09.07.2012  Integrated revision history in user manual

 Renamed user manual
Restructured manual

8.0 19.04.2011  Chapters deleted, because already in hardware manual:

3/4/13/14/15
 Completely edited and new structured manual
Added new features: component serial numbers, one button
report, reset statistics

7.0 08.02.2010  Corrections in English

Updated some screenshots

6.0 N/A Not released

5.0 15.09.2009  Version 1.4 limits count increased to 500

Delay 0 minutes set as standard

4.0 30.07.2008  USB installation V1.3 (new text and screenshots)

3.0 18.07.2008  SW version 1.2

 Front page picture version 1.2
2.0 14.07.2008  SW version 1.1
 Front page pictures version 1.1
1.0 27.06.2008  First edition

Page 3 of 56
TRADEMARKS
The following product names are used for identification purposes only. They remain the
exclusive property of their respective owners.

External

The vibrant M, Millipore, and Sigma-Aldrich are trademarks of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt,
Germany or its affiliates. Detailed information on trademarks is available via publicly
accessible resources..

Opticap® is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.

Millipore® is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.

Windows®, Excel® and Internet Explorer® are registered trademarks of the

Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

PDF® is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

Safari® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

Firefox® is a registered trademark of the Mozilla Corporation in the U.S. and other
countries.

Chrome™ is a trademark of Google Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

Growth DirectTM is a trademark of Rapid Micro Biosystems Inc. in the U.S. and other
countries.

MBV AG

MAS-100® Switzerland

MAS-100 Eco® Switzerland

MAS-100 VF® Switzerland and other countries

MAS-100 NT® Switzerland and other countries

MAS-100 NT Ex® Switzerland and other countries

MAS-100 Iso NT® Switzerland and other countries

MAS-100 Iso MH® Switzerland and other countries

MAS-100 CG Ex® Switzerland

MAS-100 Regulus® Switzerland

DA-100® Switzerland and other countries

DA-100 NT® Switzerland and other countries

Copyright © 2020 MBV AG. All rights reserved.

This document may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, in any form or by any
means electronic or mechanical (including photocopying, recording, or any other
process), without the written permission of MBV AG, Switzerland.
Information contained in this document may be subject to change without notice.

Page 4 of 56
Abbreviations
The software «MAS-100 NT / NT Ex Portable Air Sampler - C&C (communication and
calibration) » is hereafter designated as «PC software».
The microbiological air samplers MAS-100 NT and MAS-100 NT Ex are hereafter designated
as «instrument».
HMI denotes «Human-Machine-Interface»
PC denotes «Personal Computer»
SQS denotes «Sequential air sampling»
USB denotes «Universal Serial Bus»

Applicability
The information in this manual is valid for the following software version:

Compone
Component designation Revision from
nt

Software MAS-100 NT / NT Ex Portable Air Sampler -

Software ≥1.6.31
C&C

Related user manuals

The following user manuals provide additional essential information:

Document designation Document scope

Describes the adjustment and calibration

Anemometer User Manual
procedures

Describes the operation of the MAS-100 NT

User Manual MAS-100 NT
air sampler.

Describes the operation of the

User Manual MAS-100 NT Ex
MAS-100 NT Ex air sampler.

Page 5 of 56
Table of contents

MANUFACTURER 2
DISTRIBUTION PARTNER 2
TRADEMARKS 4
1 General information 8
1.1 Safety information 8
1.1.1 Severity levels 8
1.1.2 Specific safety information for the PC software 8
1.2 General Provisions 10
1.2.1 Personnel qualification 10
1.2.2 Intended product use 10
1.2.3 Operating conditions 10
1.2.4 «Dual-Use» statement 10
1.3 Warranty 10
1.3.1 General 10
1.3.2 Quality statement 10
1.3.3 Contact 10
1.4 Product labeling 11
2 The PC software 11
2.1 Introduction 11
2.2 GAMP compliance 11
2.3 Compatibility with firmware versions 12
2.4 Access levels 12
2.4.1 Overview 13
2.4.2 Passwords 14
2.4.3 Additional access rights for the standard user 14
2.5 General screen layout 15
3 Installation 16
3.1 PC requirements 16
3.1.1 Hardware 16
3.1.2 Operating system 16
3.1.3 .NET Framework 16
3.1.4 Presence of older PC software versions 16
3.2 Running the installer 17
3.3 Installing the USB driver on Windows systems 19
3.4 Language file patch V1.6.31 SP1 20
4 Getting started 22
4.1 Connecting the instrument 22
4.2 Launching the PC software 23
4.3 Changing the access level 23
4.4 Changing a password 24
4.5 Changing the language 25
5 Using the PC software 26
5.1 Process and device settings 26

Page 6 of 56
5.2 Device information 31
5.2.1 Viewing information 31
5.3 Sample log 32
5.4 Alarm log 34
5.5 Working with templates 35
5.5.1 What is a template? 35
5.5.2 Inspection protocol 35
5.5.3 The Templates / Protocols view 36
5.5.4 Granting specific access rights for standard users 37
5.5.5 Template handling 38
5.5.6 Generating protocols 41
5.5.7 Printing the protocol 44
5.5.8 Exporting the protocol 45
5.5.9 Traceability of template measurements 45
5.5.10 Measurement ID missing in the protocol 46
5.5.11 Template files and folder paths 47
5.6 Calibration functions 47
5.6.1 Basics on calibration 47
5.7 Reporting functions 48
5.7.1 Generating reports 48
5.7.2 Editing report templates 49
5.7.3 Overview of tags 53
5.7.4 Print options 54
5.7.5 Save / export options 55

Page 7 of 56
1 General information

1.1 Safety information

IT IS IMPORTANT TO READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS

INSTRUMENT.
Please read the safety data sheet and the instrument-specific safety
information in this manual carefully before using the instrument and/or any
accessory supplied with this product.
Keep this notice and all other manuals on the USB flash drive for future
reference.

1.1.1 Severity levels

Warning!
Symbols in red boxes indicate hazardous situations which could result in
danger to life and/or serious injury and/or irreparable damage to the
instrument.

Attention!
Symbols in yellow boxes indicate critical situations which could result in
light injuries and/or damage to the equipment and/or unreliable air
sampling results.

Note
Symbols in green boxes indicate information which may be of major interest
for the user.

1.1.2 Specific safety information for the PC software

Hazard of damage to the instrument.

Read the instructions in this manual carefully before any usage of the
PC-software and pay attention to all warnings.
Read the instructions in the user manual of the instrument carefully before
any usage and pay attention to all warnings.
Keep all manuals in a designated place, accessible for all users for future
reference.
Ensure that all personnel have read and understood the content of the
manuals.

Hazard of damage to the instrument or wrong air sampling results.

The instrument is a precision device for industrial and laboratory use.
The instrument and the PC software shall only be operated by trained,
qualified and authorized personnel as stated in chapter 1.2.1.

Hazard of damage to the equipment or wrong air sampling results.

Any application other than the intended use is not covered by warranty.
For additional info, please consult warranty chapter 1.2.2 and chapter 1.3.

Page 8 of 56
Hazard of wrong air sampling results.
The manufacturer declines any responsibility for misuse of the PC software
and for entering wrong results.
It is the sole responsibility of the user to fill-in the correct values.
This system was not developed to meet the technical requirements from
21CFR part 11 and international regulations regarding GxP regulated records.
If data is needed generated by this system in a GxP regulated environment,
ensure to maintain paper recording in accordance with GxP procedures.

Page 9 of 56
1.2 General Provisions
1.2.1 Personnel qualification
The instrument is a precision device for industrial and laboratory use. The instrument and
the PC software shall only be operated by trained, qualified and authorized personnel.
The passwords for the corresponding access level must only be given to authorized people,
according the tasks to be performed.

1.2.2 Intended product use

The PC software is intended to be used only in conjunction with the air samplers
MAS-100 NT / NT Ex.

1.2.3 Operating conditions

The proper use of the PC software demands for PC requirements as described in
chapter 3.1.

1.2.4 «Dual-Use» statement

The PC software is designed solely for civilian purposes and is excluded in the scope of the
European «Dual-Use» regulation EC 428/2009.

1.3 Warranty
1.3.1 General
This chapter informs about the warranty of the instrument and the procedures to follow if
the instrument is not working as described in the user manuals.
For products listed in this publication purchased via Merck KGaA the applicable warranty
terms may be found at: www.millipore.com/terms (within the «Terms and Conditions of
Sale» applicable to your purchase transaction).
For products listed in this publication purchased directly from MBV AG the applicable
warranty terms may be found at: https://www.mbv.ch/about-us/gtc.
1.3.2 Quality statement
The instrument has been designed and manufactured to the highest quality levels as
described in our ISO 9001 processes.
MBV AG guarantees the instruments performance to specifications for a period of
24 months (starting from shipping date) and for spare and replacement parts for a period
of 3 months after repair or service.
1.3.3 Contact
In case of warranty claim please contact your instrument supplier:

MBV AG Worldwide: www.mbv.ch/service

Merck KGaA USA: Call 1-800-MILLIPORE (1-800-645-5476)
Rest of the
www.millipore.com/techservice
world:

Page 10 of 56
1.4 Product labeling
To find out the PC software’s detailed designation and version number, proceed as follows:

1. Click on the «About» menu item in the upper left corner of

the screen to read the information about the PC software
designation and PC software version.
2. Click on «OK» to return to the current view.

In case of a support request to the manufacturer, always

provide the SW version number with the request to ease
product support.

2 The PC software

The functions of the instrument can be programmed directly via the instrument’s operating
and display elements (HMI) or by PC software.
This manual describes the programming of the PC software. For information on operating
the instrument via the HMI, refer to the User Manuals.

2.1 Introduction
The PC software is a communication & calibration software for the portable air samplers
MAS-100 NT and MAS-100 NT Ex.
The PC software is always provided free of charge together with an instrument or can be
downloaded from the manufacturer’s website www.mbv.ch.
The main scope of the PC software is programming the instrument and reporting the
sampling results. Templates for sampling plans and inspection protocols can be generated
easily.
The instrument can transfer up to 100 test results, which are allocated to up to 10 different
users, to the PC software for evaluation and reporting. For this, the instrument can be
connected to a PC by USB cable.
Sample and alarm logs can be read from the instrument and can be stored or printed to
guarantee for full traceability of the results.
Moreover, the PC software offers functions for service technicians for troubleshooting and
repair purposes. It also contains functions for calibration and adjustment of the instrument.
Reports can be configured in a wide range to meet the instrument owner’s needs.

2.2 GAMP compliance

The PC software has been developed according GAMP5 and is validated thereupon,
covering the following development activities:
 Planning & Specification (URS, FS)
 Design (HW & SW design specifications)
 Testing (HW & SW module testing)

Page 11 of 56
2.3 Compatibility with firmware versions

Restricted functionality due to different firmware versions.

In older firmware version, the adjustable display contrast in the process and
device settings is not available and the running hours of the flow sensor in
the device information menu is not visible.

2.4 Access levels

The PC software allows to login at different access levels.
Except for the standard user, a password is required to login to the corresponding access
level.
According the specific task to be performed, the corresponding user can be enabled to
enter the necessary access level.

Page 12 of 56
2.4.1 Overview
The following table gives an overview of the different access levels, the users and the tasks
these users normally perform:

(1)
Access Available views Icon Tasks to be performed
level
Process and device settings

Adjustment/Calibration

Templates/Protocol
Device information
Sample log
Alarm log

Reports
Factory
Service

Standard X X X X X  View settings and log files

 Perform tasks granted by the
advanced user

Advanced X X X X X X  Edit process and device settings

 Handle templates and protocols
 Clear sample log and alarm log
 Grant specific access rights to
standard user

Service X X X X X X X X  Troubleshooting
 Maintenance, Repair
 Update installation data (serial
numbers of replaced components)
 Adjustment and calibration of the
instrument

Calibrator X X X  Adjustment and calibration of the

instrument

Factory X X X X X X X X X N/A  Basic setup of the instrument

(1) Functions that require a specific access level are marked with the corresponding icon.

Page 13 of 56
2.4.2 Passwords
The PC software is delivered with initial passwords as shown in the following table:

Access level Initial password

Standard <No password>
Advanced advanced
Service Not available
Calibrator Available in the Anemometer User Manual
Factory Not available

Being in the possession of these passwords, all access levels (except factory) are open to
all users.
It is the responsibility of the instrument owner to authorize specific users with respect to
their duties and knowledge. To restrict the access to higher access levels than «Standard»
the passwords can be changed, accordingly.

Password reset is not possible.

The PC software does not offer a function to reset the passwords by the
user. Make sure not to forget the passwords which have been assigned to
the different access levels.

2.4.3 Additional access rights for the standard user

The standard user has basic read access. However, the advanced user can grant access to
specific functions for the standard user. These functions include reading template data and
working with templates and inspection protocols.
For details on how to grant access see chapter 5.5.4.

Page 14 of 56
2.5 General screen layout
The screen is divided in the following chapters:
A
B
C

A Header line
Shows the name of the PC software and the current access level (in the example
«Standard»).
On the right, there are the Windows standard icons «Minimize», «Maximize» and
«Close».
B Menu items
Opens dialogs to change access level and language. «About» shows details on the
PC software version.
C View icons
Used to select the displayed view (the number of available views depends on the
current access level).
D View window
Shows the data of the current view (in the example «Device information»).
E Information line
Shows the current PC date and time and provides information if an instrument is
connected or not. Furthermore, the information line shows the instrument status and
the link to saved documents.

Page 15 of 56
3 Installation

3.1 PC requirements
3.1.1 Hardware
Make sure that the computer on which the PC software will be installed meets the following
minimum requirements:

Processor 32- or 64-bit architecture

RAM Min. 2 GB
Display Resolution at least 1024×768 pixels
Interface 1 free USB 2.0 port

3.1.2 Operating system

The PC software works in conjunction with the following PC operating systems:
 Windows 7, 8, 10 (32/64-bit architecture)

Windows installation.
When using a Windows® operating system, ensure that «Enterprise» or
«Professional» edition is installed. Lesser installations – e.g. «Home edition» –
may not work properly.

Windows administrator.
To install the PC software Windows administrator access rights are required.
Make sure to have access to a corresponding user account.

3.1.3 .NET Framework

To run the PC software, installation of the Microsoft .NET 4.0 (or later) Framework is
necessary. During SW installation of the PC software, checking for the presence of a
sufficient version of the .NET Framework is performed automatically. In case this is missing,
the installer will prompt the user to download and install the Framework from the Microsoft
webpage.
When prompted to install .NET, follow the instructions on the screen.

Internet access required.

In case the .NET Framework needs to be updated, an internet connection
with a sufficient bandwidth is required.

3.1.4 Presence of older PC software versions

Hazard of wrong air sampling results.

The PC software may suffer malfunctions due to the presence of older SW
versions.
Prior to installing the PC software, make sure to completely uninstall former
versions of the PC software from the computer.

Page 16 of 56
3.2 Running the installer
To install the PC software on a computer, proceed as follows:

1. Make sure, no instrument is connected to the PC via a USB cable.

2. Check the computer for the presence of a former version of the PC software and
uninstall it, if appropriate.

3. Insert the data carrier with the PC software installer file or download the file from
the MBV AG website www.mbv.ch.

4. Double-click the installer file «MAS100_NT_AirSampler_ver_x.y.z_Setup».

5. Confirm the Windows warning, e.g. «Do you want to allow the following program to
make changes on this computer? MAS-100 NT Air Sampler – C&C» with «Yes».

6. Select the desired installation

language from the list box.
7. Confirm with «OK».

8. Make sure that no other

applications on the computer are
running.
9. Click on «Next».

Page 17 of 56
10. Read the license agreement.
11. To continue with the installation,
click on the option button «I accept
the agreement».
12. Click on «Next».

13. Accept the default installation

folder or click on «Browse» to select
a different location on the system.
14. Click on «Next».
15. On the next screen, confirm with
«Install».

16. Click on «Finish» to complete the

installation.

Page 18 of 56
3.3 Installing the USB driver on Windows systems
The needed drivers are installed automatically after the PC software is installed and the
instrument is connected to the PC via USB for the first time. If not, go to System, Hardware
Manager; in the USB-controller section, choose the «FTDI FT8U2XX Device» to update the
driver manually. Choose the automatic search function.
Current instruments are configured to install the generic FTDI USB serial converter driver.
If drivers need to be installed manually, please follow the instructions below:

Procedure
1. On the first screen of the wizard, select checkbox: «No, not this time» to avoid
searching for a suitable driver and press next.
2. On the second screen of the wizard select checkbox «Install from a list or specified
location (Advanced)» and press «Next».
3. On the third screen of the wizard set the checkbox «Include this location in the
search:» and select the subdirectory «Driver FTDXX» of the location where you
installed the PC software (in most cases in C:\Program Files\MBV\MAS-100 NT
Portable\Driver FTDXX) and press next.
4. Windows will start to install the driver and shows a warning message (Windows Logo
Test Warning).
5. Now the device driver FDTI FT8U2XX is being installed.
6. If the installation of the driver has been finished successfully, Windows shows the
following message: «Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard». Press the «Finish»
button.
7. The USB driver is now installed and the PC software is ready to use.

MBV AG has tested the driver thoroughly and did not find any risk of
impairing or destabilizing the Windows® operating systems. Therefore we
recommend pressing the button «Continue anyway» to continue the
installation of the driver.

Page 19 of 56
3.4 Language file patch V1.6.31 SP1

PC Software V1.6.31 contains type errors in the French and Spanish

language files.
A specific patch to correct this can be found on the USB stick or the
MBV AG website www.mbv.ch.

Important
Please run the patch after installation of the PC Software.

This patch also introduces the new MBV logo.

Users who have customized their system with an own logo must reload the
logo again.

To install the patch, proceed as follows:

1. Browse the USB stick delivered with the instrument for the patch installer file:

USB-Stick
 MAS-100 NT & NT Ex
 Software
 MAS100_NT_AirSampler_ver_1.6.31_UpdateSP1.exe (Patch installer file)
or
Log into the Customer Support Portal of the www.mbv.ch website and then
download the patch installer file by clicking this link:
https://www.mbv.ch/media/mas100_nt_airsampler_ver_1.6.31_updatesp1.exe.zip
or
Log into the Customer Support Portal of the www.mbv.ch website and get to the
patch installer file by entering the search word Patch.

2. Double-click the patch installer file

MAS100_NT_AirSampler_ver_1.6.31_UpdateSP1.exe

3. Select the desired installation

language from the list box.
4. Confirm with «OK».

Page 20 of 56
5. Accept the License Agreement
6. Continue with «Next»

7. Click «Install» to start the

installation.

8. Click «Finish» to end the process.

Page 21 of 56
4 Getting started

4.1 Connecting the instrument

To connect the instrument to the PC, proceed as follows:

1. Use the type A / type B USB cable

delivered with the instrument to
connect the instrument to the
computer.

2. Plug the type B connector into the

USB port of the instrument as shown
in the figure.
3. Plug the type A connector into a free
USB port on the computer.
4. Switch the instrument on.
Press the lower left button under the
display (refer to the respective User
Manual) for about 2 seconds until the
blue LED (run) lights up.
5. Run the PC software (see
chapter 4.2).

6. Check if the instrument is connected

to the PC software (see
chapter 5.2.1).

Page 22 of 56
4.2 Launching the PC software

1. Double-click the «MAS-100 NT Air Sampler» icon on the

desktop or start the PC software by running the file
«MAS100NT.exe» in the installation folder.
2. Choose the access level and enter the corresponding password
(the dialog is the same for changing the access level as
described in chapter 4.3).
3. Confirm with «OK».

4.3 Changing the access level

The access level can be changed at any time while using the PC software. To login at a
different access level, proceed as follows:

1. Click on the «Access level» menu item

in the upper left corner of the screen
and select «Change access level».
2. Select the desired access level from
the list box «Access level».
3. Enter the corresponding password
(see chapter 2.4.2) in the «Password»
field.
4. Confirm with «OK».

Page 23 of 56
4.4 Changing a password
To change a password of a specific access level, proceed as follows:

1. Login to the access level whose

password shall be changed (see
chapter 4.3).
2. Click on the «Access level» menu item
in the upper left corner of the screen
and select «Change password».
3. Enter the new password in the
«Password» field.
4. Confirm the new password in the
«Confirm password» field.
5. Confirm with «OK».

Hazard of data loss.

The PC software does not offer a function to reset the passwords by the
user. Make sure not to forget the passwords assigned to the different access
levels.

Password for standard user.

For standard users, a password cannot be defined. It must be logged in
without entering a password.

Page 24 of 56
4.5 Changing the language
The interface language can be changed at any time while using the PC software. To have a
different language displayed, proceed as follows:

1. Click on the «Language» menu item in

the upper left corner of the screen.
2. Select one of the languages:
 Czech
 German
 English
 Spanish
 French
 Polish

Language setting.
The language setting in the PC software does not influence the instrument’s
language setting, i.e. the settings for the PC software and for the instrument
are done independently.

Page 25 of 56
5 Using the PC software

Click on one of the view icons to have the corresponding view displayed in the view
window. The number of view icons depends on the access level the user is currently logged
in.

5.1 Process and device settings

Click on this icon to This function requires

work with the the access level:
«Process and device  Advanced
settings» view.

In the «Process and device settings» view, all important settings with respect to air
sampling and instrument setup are done.

Button Function
«Read from device» Reads the settings from the instrument currently connected.
«Write to device» Writes the settings made in the «Process and device settings»
view down to the instrument.
«Load from file…» Loads a settings file (*.mcp) from the computer into the «Process
and device settings» view.
«Save to file…» Saves the settings currently displayed as a settings file (*.mcp)
on the computer.

Page 26 of 56
Process settings

Volume:
Defines the sampling volume in Liter.
Select from one of the default values set
in «Standard volume».

Mode:
Selects standard mode (standard
sampling) or SQS mode (sequential air
sampling). For details, please refer to the
respective User Manual.
For SQS mode, define the number of
fractions (range: 1 to 50) and the
duration in hours and minutes (range 0 h
0 min to 23 h 59 min) by adjusting the
values in the corresponding fields with
the up and down arrows or use the
keyboard to enter a value.
The selected volume will be divided in
the corresponding number of fractions
and the sampling will be performed
within the defined time frame. In case of
standard mode, the fields «Fractions»
and «Duration» are greyed (inactive).

Delay: Checkbox «Active»

Switches the delay on if selected.
Otherwise, the sampling will start
immediately. For details, please refer to
the instruments respective User Manual.
Adjust the value for the delay time in
minutes (range: 0 to 120 min) with the
up and down arrows or use the
keyboard to enter a value.

Page 27 of 56
Device settings

Name: (Displayed on instrument screen

and in all reports)
Defining a name for the instrument, to
assign an identification to the
instrument. Never leave this field empty.

Department: (Displayed on instrument

screen and in all reports)
Defining a department for the instrument
of the operator’s organization. Never
leave this field empty.

Perforated lid:
Select the type of perforated lid used

Installed printer:
Select the type of printer that is
connected to the instrument, either
«None», «Samsung» or «Epson».

Printer.
If a printer is selected, the function «Online printing» is activated
automatically.
This means that sample-related data are printed after each test.

Protected mode: Checkbox «Active»

Switches the protected mode for the
instrument on.
This function blocks manual
interventions on the instrument. The only
accessible functions on the instrument
are now reduced to starting and
stopping a sampling and the user has
only read access. Also, very useful when
using the “template mode”, refer to
chapter 5.5.

Display contrast:
Adjusts the display contrast of the
instrument’s display (range 0 to 14). Use
the up and down arrows or the keyboard
to adjust the value.

Page 28 of 56
Date and time

Format:
Selects the date format in which dates
are represented. Select from:
 Europe: dd.mm.yyyy hh:mm
 Japan: yyyy.mm.dd hh:mm
 USA: mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm am/pm

Daylight saving mode:

Select from:
 Summertime (daylight saving time)
 Wintertime (standard time)

Button «Write current date and time to

the device»

Writes the computer’s system time to

the instrument.

Note.
The setting for daylight saving time / standard time (Summertime /
Wintertime) will not be written to the device. Make sure to check this setting
on the instrument (Summer On / Off) prior to synchronizing with the
computer’s system time.

Standard volume

Volume 1: to Volume 5:
Define the default sampling volumes that
can be selected from the list box in the
PC software or on the instrument’s
display.

Enter the desired default values or use

the up and down arrows to adjust the
values between 0 and 2000 Liter.

Note.
If a value in the list is set to «0», this item will not appear in the selection of
standard volumes anymore.

Page 29 of 56
User selection

Checkbox «Active»
If user selection is active, the instrument
will prompt for the user name before a
measurement can be started.
The default names «User 1» to «User 10»
can be renamed, see «User names»
below.
The instrument records the user name
along with the sampling data.
If the function is not active, the
measurement will start immediately and
no user name will be recorded.

List box «Active user»

Selects the most frequent user to be the
default user.

User names

User 1: to User 10:

For User 1 to 10, define an «alias» name
(max. length of text string: 15 characters)
for each member of the staff working
with the instrument.
This identifier will then be addressed on
the instrument’s display, if
«User selection» is active.

Never leave any of those fields empty.

Enter a space at least.

Page 30 of 56
5.2 Device information
5.2.1 Viewing information

Click on this icon to work with This information

the «Device information» view. applies to access
level:
 Standard

The «Device information» view provides detailed information on the connected instrument’s
hardware, firmware, calibration state, running statistics and components.

If an instrument is connected, the views show the serial number (S/N) in the header line and
display «Device(s) connected» in the information line.

On the «Standard» and the «Advanced» access level, settings cannot be done in this view, it
only allows to read information.

Page 31 of 56
5.3 Sample log

Click on this icon to work This information

with the «Sample log» view. applies to access
level:
 Standard

The «Sample log» view shows a list of sample log entries (measurements made in
«Template mode» are not recorded here). In the lower right part of the view details on the
selected log entry are displayed.

Button Function

«Read entries» Reads the number of sample log entries from the instrument as
defined in the selection box «Number of entries to read».
Up to 100 sample log entries may be stored in the instrument. If
the number of entries exceeds 100, the new entries will replace
the oldest ones. The sample ID number, however, will not reset
after reaching the max. number; it will remain unique (number
of possible entries greater than 10'000'000).

«Clear sample log» Deletes the complete sample (Access level

log list. «Advanced»
necessary)

«Selection…» / Prints or saves the selected or all entries, accordingly.

«All entries…»

Page 32 of 56
The amount of displayed sample log information depends upon the depth of the users’
interaction in the PC Software. The following table gives an overview about what is shown
at each interaction level:

SW 1.6.31
SW 1.6.31 SW 1.6.31 print/
SW 1.6.31 sample log
On instrument print/.pdf of .pdf of all
sample log screen,
with FW 1.7.18 selected sample logs
screen selected
sample log (overview)
sample details
Sample Log /
Sample ID Sample ID Sample ID Sample ID
Log ID
Mode Mode Mode Mode
Fract. x/xx Fractions Fractions
Volume x/xx – Volume [Liter] Volume [Liter] –
Durat. – – – –
Delay – Delay Delay –
Start date/time Start time Start time Start time Start time
End date/time End time End time End time End time
State State State State State
User User User –
Alarm ID Alarm ID Alarm ID Alarm ID Alarm ID
Sampled Sampled Sampled
– –
Volume Volume Volume
Current Current
– – –
Fraction Fraction
– – – Alarm text –

Page 33 of 56
5.4 Alarm log

Click on this icon to work This information

with the «Alarm log» view. applies to access
level:
 Standard

The «Alarm log» view shows a list of alarm log entries.

Button Function

«Read entries» Reads the number of alarm log entries from the instrument as
defined in the selection box «Number of entries to read».
Up to 100 alarm log entries may be stored in the instrument. If
the number of entries exceeds 100, the new entries will replace
the oldest ones. The log ID number, however, will not reset
after reaching the max. number; it will remain unique (number
of possible entries greater than 10'000'000).

«Clear alarm log» Deletes the complete alarm (Access level

log list. «Advanced»
necessary)

«Selection…» / Prints or saves the selected or all entries, accordingly.

«All entries…»

Page 34 of 56
5.5 Working with templates

Use the same PC for template and protocol data.

It is recommended to use the same PC for template and protocol creation.

5.5.1 What is a template?

The template is a sampling plan and a reporting tool, which can be generated by the
PC software.
After uploading the template file to the instrument, the user can start the measurements in
«Template mode». Hereby, the instrument shows the location and the sampling points
according to the sampling plan. If appropriate, the instrument asks for the user ID (user
selection active) and instructs the user about the sequence and locations until all
measurements are completed.
The user downloads the template data from the instrument und generates an inspection
protocol (see chapter 5.5.2)
After deletion of the template data on the instrument, the template can be reused, if the
same sampling plan applies.

Log entries.
Measurements in template mode do not generate any sample log entries.
Occurring alarms, however, are always recorded.

5.5.2 Inspection protocol

When the measurements are completed, the user downloads the template data of the
corresponding template to generate an inspection protocol. The protocol automatically
documents the sampling volume, sampling mode, location, the sampling point as well as the
user who has performed the measurement and the date and time when the samples have
been taken.
The user then adds the Petri dish ID and, after having received the counting results from
the laboratory, the counted CFU (Colony-Forming Units) values.
The PC software automatically calculates the CFU count so that the value relates to 1 m3
(1000 Liter) and determines the final CFU value according the Feller correction table
(depending on the sampling head type).
The protocol then shows the final test results. The user can save the protocol on the
computer or print it out for signing.

Page 35 of 56
5.5.3 The Templates / Protocols view

Click on this This information applies to

icon to work access level:
with the
 Advanced
«Templates /
Protocols» view.  Standard (conditional,
see chapter 5.5.4)

The upper part of the screen is related to sampling data for the generation of inspection
protocols:

Button Function

«Refresh» Reloads and displays the current template data from

the instrument.

«Download data» Downloads the template data from the instrument to

generate a protocol. Refer to chapter 5.5.6.

«Clear template data on device» Be sure to have the data of a template saved to the PC
before its deletion! This button deletes the template
data in the tables selected template from the
instrument. Immediately, a new template ID is created
and the used one, deleted. The template’s included
measurement ID’s are increased, even if the template
has not been executed. Refer to chapter 5.5.10.

«Delete template(s) on device» Deletes the complete template(s) selected in the table
from the instrument.

Page 36 of 56
 Actions
The lower left part of the screen (Actions) is related to the Refer to chapter 5.5.5.
templates

Access right for standard users

The checkboxes in the lower right part of the screen define the Refer to
configurable access rights for the standard user. chapter 5.5.4.

5.5.4 Granting specific access rights for standard users

This function requires the access level:

 Advanced

The PC software allows the advanced user to grant specific access rights for standard
users.

If the checkbox «Hide Templates /

Protocols view» is marked, the view is
not even visible to the standard user, i.e.
the standard user has no access at all to
templates / protocols.
In case the standard user has been
granted access to the «Templates /
Protocols» view, «Allow…» defines the
detailed permission the standard user
has in connection with the templates /
protocols according to the texts in the
lower right part of the «Templates /
Protocols» view.
Mark the corresponding checkboxes to
configure the access rights for the
standard users.
In this manual, the functions that are
configurable in this way are marked
with:
Standard user (conditional)

Page 37 of 56
5.5.5 Template handling

This function requires the access level:

 Advanced
 Standard (conditional, see chapter 5.5.4)

Button Function

Shows the «Settings» screen.

«Settings » Instructions: See below.

Process settings

For creating a new template, the dialog

allows to define the default values for the
process settings, such as mode
(Standard or SQS), volume, number of
fractions and duration (for SQS mode)
and delay.

Thresholds

Furthermore, the thresholds for the CFU

counting limits for the alert, alarm and
max. limit levels are defined here.

Path

Allows to define the file locations of the

template and protocol files.
To alter the default file locations, click on
the button (…) on the right and browse
to the desired location.

Note.
The range for the threshold values is 0 to 500. The «Limit» value must be
greater than the «Alarm» value, and the «Alarm» value must be greater than
the «Alert» value.
These levels make the result fields in the protocol appear in the
corresponding colour. Also refer to chapter 5.5.6.

Note.
The templates and protocols must be stored in the specific location defined
in «Path», otherwise the instrument is not able to find these files again.

Note.
It is not recommended to work with SQS sequential mode in the template
mode.
Confirm the entries with «OK» or quit with «Cancel».

Page 38 of 56
Button Function

«Open template» Opens an existing template file and makes it accessible for
modifications.

«Open protocol» Opens an existing protocol file for viewing or commenting.

«Create new Creates an empty template and makes it accessible for

template» modifications.
Instructions: See below.

1. Enter the corresponding data in the template mask. The data in the header and in the
footer do not have to be filled in completely, but the process settings must be
complete. The sampling point IDs must be unique, i.e. if more than one sampling point
has the same name, the file cannot be saved.

Process settings
The default values for the process settings are taken over from the
«Settings» dialog, see sub-chapter Button «Parameters and paths» above.

Page 39 of 56
2. Click on «Save to file» to save the template file on the computer.

Restrictions.
The length of the template name must be between two and 17 characters.

3. Click on «Write to device» to upload and store the template file to the instrument.
Please note, that If a template is created and loaded to the instrument, the included
number of measurements are set with measurement ID’s.

Restrictions.
Up to ten template files with up to a total of 100 locations / sampling points
can be stored to the instrument and can be accessed in template mode,
accordingly.
If a template should be loaded to the instrument additionally, exceeding the
100 measurements, following Message appears:
Das verknüpfte Bild kann nicht angezeigt werden. Möglicherweise wurde die Datei verschoben, umbenannt oder gelöscht. Stellen Sie sicher, dass die Verknüpfung auf die korrekte Datei und den korrekten Speicherort zeigt.

Prior to loading more templates to the instrument, some of the older ones
must be deleted.
If unfortunately, the executed template or its data has not been saved
before its deletion, the data is lost and cannot be restored. Also, the
reserved measurement ID’s are “lost”. See

4. Click on «Delete on PC» for deleting the current template file from the computer or
quit the screen with «Close».

Button Function

«Clone Makes a copy of an existing template and offers to save it with a

template» different file name.

«Combine Allows to combine the tests from different templates.

templates» Instructions: See below.

Page 40 of 56
The screen shows a table with the predefined templates which can be combined and the
number of tests of each template.
1. Click on «Add template» and select a template file to add it to the list.
2. To remove a template file from the list, select it by marking the checkbox on the left
and click on «Remove template».
3. To change the work order of the tests in the combined template file, select the
template file to be moved by marking the corresponding line in the list and click on
«Up» or «Down» until the templates appear in the desired order.
4. Click on «Combine templates» to create a single template file that includes all tests
(max. number of locations / sampling points: 100) or quit with «Close».

5.5.6 Generating protocols

This function requires the access level:

 Advanced
 Standard (conditional, see chapter 5.5.4)

1. Display the current template data from the instrument by clicking on «Refresh».
Page 41 of 56
2. Select the line with the template name from which an inspection protocol shall be
generated.
3. Click on «Download data» or double-click the corresponding line to download the
template data from the instrument.

4. Enter the Petri dish ID in the column «Petri dish».

If no specific ID is defined for the Petri dish, use the automatically generated number in
the column on the left.
5. Enter the value for the counted CFU in the column «CFU counted ».
The normalized (representing the CFU count per 1 m3 [1000 Liter]) and corrected
(according to the Feller conversion table) CFU value in column «CFU corr.» is
calculated automatically.
6. If appropriate, click on «Add remark» to make an entry in the list of remarks (e.g. to
explain a deviation or error in the protocol data).

7. Confirm with «OK» or quit with

«Cancel».
The remarks are labelled with the
Windows username and the date and
time from the PC system.

Page 42 of 56
 Modifying the protocol after saving is not possible.
Once the protocol has been saved, the values in the table «Samples» and
the remarks cannot be changed anymore. However, it is still possible to add
remarks.

8. Make sure to have completed the information and click on «Save to file…» to save the
data on the computer.

Interpretation of results in the protocol

The inspection protocol shows the final test results. For this, the PC software compares the
corrected CFU values with the predefined thresholds.
On the right side of the table «Samples» there are three levels of CFU values represented
with color codes:

 If the calculated CFU value is below the alert level, the fields appear in green color.
 If the calculated CFU value reaches the alert level, the alert field appears in yellow color.
 If the calculated CFU value reaches the alarm level, the alert and alarm fields appear in
orange color.
 If the calculated CFU value reaches the max. limit level, all fields appear in red color.

The values for the corresponding limits are defined in the template file. See chapter 5.5.5.

Page 43 of 56
5.5.7 Printing the protocol
The figure shows an example of a printed inspection protocol:

The inspection protocol contains the following information:

 Device information: Instrument settings and information on the sampling location.
 Samples: Table with information on each sample, including a graphical representation
(coloured fields) of the results compared against alert, alarm and maximum limit values.
 Alarms: If any alarm has occurred during sampling, it is listed here.
 Information about the Agar type used.
 Remarks: If any remarks are entered, they are listed here.
 Created by: Shows the name of the person who issued the protocol and provides a
signature line.

The footer text displays the paths of the template and the protocol files. On the right side it
shows the time and date when the protocol was printed.

Modifying report template of inspection protocol

Modifying the default report template requires the report template of the
inspection protocol to be adapted afterwards. Therefore, the page
orientation must be changed to «landscape» and for the footer the number
of columns must be reduced to two and the following text strings (see
table below) need to be inserted.
For editing report templates see chapter 5.7.2.
Left column: Right column:
{TemplateFile} {Time} {Date}
{ProtocolFile} Created by: {WindowsUserName}

Page 44 of 56
5.5.8 Exporting the protocol
Click on «Export…» to export and save the data of the inspection protocol in a separate file.
For the save options, see chapter 5.7.5.

5.5.9 Traceability of template measurements

Each template has a specific template ID and an allocated measurement ID for each defined
location / sampling point. All ID’s are generated automatically and unique therefore a full
traceability is guaranteed. The template ID remains the same until the template has
successfully completed. Hence, if an error appears the template ID will remain the same at
the next try.

In the example shown below there is a snapshot of an alarm log that shows three alarms
each of two different templates. The template «Stnd. 20L» is marked in blue, red, green, and
the template «Stnd. 40L» is marked in violet.

All alarms are stored in the associated inspection protocol as well. By opening the
inspection protocol of the template, the alarm is traceable to the specific measurement and
the according location / sampling point and all more existing information.

Inspection protocol of template «Stnd. 20L»

Page 45 of 56
Inspection protocol of template «Stnd. 40L»

5.5.10 Measurement ID missing in the protocol

Due to traceability reasons, measurement ID’s could be missing in the protocols, if template
data has been deleted on the device, without its execution.
Explanation:
If a template is created and loaded to the instrument, the included number of
measurements are set with measurement ID’s.
If the template data is cleared on the device with this button
«Clear template data on device», immediately, a new template ID is created and the used
one, deleted. The template’s included measurement ID’s are increased, even the template
has not been executed.
The reason for missing protocols is therefore, that those have never been executed, or were
unintentionally deleted. If unfortunately, the executed template has not been saved before
its deletion, the data is lost and cannot be recovered.

Example:
Measurement No. Of Template Date No. Of Interpretation
ID's Measurements Name executed
Measurements

116-127 12 Lab C 27.06.2019 12

128-137 10 Lab D 27.06.2019 10
138-173 36 Lab 2 26.08.2019 36
174-209 36 Lab 2 unknown unknown Template Lab 2 executed
or not, deleted
210-249 40 Lab 1 18.09.2019 40

Page 46 of 56
5.5.11 Template files and folder paths
The default installation folder for template and protocol files is the following:
C:\Users\’User’\Documents\MBV\MAS-100 NT Portable
The ‘Protocols’ folder includes the protocol files *.ipp
The ‘Templates’ folder includes the template files *.ip
The following folder includes a file (without file ending) of each instrument with its serial
number, if templates were loaded to it:
C:\ProgramData\MBV\MAS-100 NT\DevicesCache.
Each file lists the sequence and which template was loaded to the instrument. The file can
be opened with any text editor like notepad.
Example:
1=template 1
2=template 1_
3=template 1_
4=template 2
5=template 2_
6=template 3
7=template 4

5.6 Calibration functions

An anemometer is used to measure the airflow through the instrument.
For the calibration and adjustment procedures and details on how to use the anemometer,
refer to the anemometer User Manual.

5.6.1 Basics on calibration

Flow calibration
Basically, the PC software allows to perform a calibration (comparison of a rated value
against a standard). If the measured values are within tolerance, an «as found» certificate
(state of incoming instrument) and an «as left» certificate (state of outgoing instrument) is
issued.

Flow sensor adjustment

If necessary (e.g. after repair, part replacement or if the calibration has not passed), the
instrument must be adjusted, and calibration is performed afterwards. In this case an
«Adjustment and calibration certificate» is issued.

Page 47 of 56
5.7 Reporting functions
5.7.1 Generating reports

Click on this icon to work with This information

the «Reports» view. applies to access
level:
 Standard

The «Reports» view allows to generate, print or save reports of instrument and alarm /
sample log data.

XML report

Button Function

«Create XML report» Generates a report that contains information about instrument
settings, sample and alarm log data. The file is intended to be
sent to the manufacturer and can be useful for diagnostics and
troubleshooting purposes.

Alarm log / Sample log

Button Function

«Print: » «All entries…» Calls up a dialog for printing the corresponding log entries. The
print options are described in chapter 5.7.4.

«Save: » «All entries…» Saves the alarm / sample log file in the desired file format. The
save options are described in chapter 5.7.5.

Page 48 of 56
5.7.2 Editing report templates

Click on this icon to This information

work with the applies to access level:
«Reports» view.
 Advanced

The «Reports» view also offers functions for editing the appearance and contents of all
documents the PC software can issue.

Tab «Reports configuration»

Button Function

«Edit» Allows to make settings to the basic report template. For details
see example below.

«Edit template» These buttons allow to modify the template of the corresponding
document listed on the left side of the view. For details see example
below.

The templates of all documents can be edited in the same way. As an

example, the template for the inspection protocol is described herein.

Page 49 of 56
Click on «Inspection protocol» «Edit template».
The screen shows the dialog for editing the template of the inspection protocol. On the
right side of the screen there are the two tabs «Page» and «Edit elements».

Tab «Page» of the templates’ configuration dialog

The tab «Page» shows basically the same options as for printing. The print options are
described in chapter 5.7.4.

Page 50 of 56
Tab «Edit elements» of the templates’ configuration dialog

Shows all editable template items in a list. The editor groups the items, e.g. in headers, titles,
footers, etc. Extend the list by clicking on the + symbol of the corresponding group.
Click on one of the items in the document or in the list (in the example «Table cell [3:1]»).
The editor highlights the corresponding list item or table cell in the document
representation (see red boxes).
Enter the desired string in the «Text» field. In the example, the entry in the table field will
change from «SOP» to «Procedure #».

Button Function

«Insert tag» Inserts a tag, which is a variable value taken from the computer
system, the instrument or from the standard tags (see tab
«Tags and logotype»). The tags are described in chapter 5.7.3.
Click on «Insert tag», place the cursor over the desired information
type and select a tag from the list.

«Apply changes» Applies the changes to the template.

Retrieving a default template

If one of the templates have been

modified, the button «Use default
template» appears next to the
corresponding «Edit template» button.
This allows to retrieve all original data for
the corresponding template.

Page 51 of 56
Tab «Tags and logotype»

The entries in this tab define the standard tags and the logo (graphics) file for the
documents.
Where applicable, the values of the standard tags can be inserted in the documents the
PC software generates. The tags are listed in chapter 5.7.3.
The tag «WindowsUserName» is the name of the currently logged-in Windows user und
cannot be edited. Therefore, it is greyed (inactive).

Logotype

Button Function

«Open image…» Opens a dialog to choose an image which will be shown in the
header of the documents.
Browse for an image in the graphics format:
 *.bmp
 *.jpg
 *.png
 *.emf
Confirm with «Open».

«Reset» Replaces the user-defined logo with the MBV AG default logo.
Confirm with «Yes» to clear the user-defined logo and insert the
original one.

Page 52 of 56
5.7.3 Overview of tags
The following table explains the tags, which can be inserted in the documents generated by
the PC software.

Information type Tag name Description of the variable

N/A {PageNo} Page number of the document

{PageCount} Total number of pages

System {AppName} Name of the PC software

information
{AppVersion} Version of the PC software

{WindowsVersion} Version of the operating system

Device {DeviceName} Name of the instrument

information
{DeviceSerialNumber} Serial number of the instrument

{DeviceFirmwareVersion} Firmware version of the instrument

{DeviceHardwareVersion} Hardware version of the instrument

Report {ReportTitle} Document title

information
{ReportFile} File name of the document

(2)
Company {CompanyAddress} Address of the company
information
(2)
{CompanyEmail} E-mail address of the company

(2)
{CompanyFax} Fax number of the company

(2)
{CompanyName} Company name

(2)
{CompanyPhone} Phone number of the company

(2)
{CompanyWebSite} Web site address of the company

(2)
User information {UserName} Default username

{WindowsUserName} Name of current Windows user

(2)
{UserDepartment} Department of the user’s company

(2) Defined in the tab «Tags and logotype, see chapter 5.7.2.

Page 53 of 56
5.7.4 Print options
For printing documents, e.g. inspection protocols, calibration certificates, etc., the
PC software offers several options for viewing and printing. Clicking on button «Print…»
calls up the print preview for the corresponding document:

On the left of the print preview screen, thumbnails for each page of the document are
shown. In the middle section the document can be viewed, and the right side of the screen
offers the following options:

Actions

Button Function

«Print» Allows to print the protocol on one of the installed printers.

«Save» Saves the document (e.g. sample/ alarm log data or inspection
protocol) in the desired format. For the save options see
chapter 5.7.5.

Zoom
The «Zoom» section has no influence on the printed output. It only affects the representation
of the document on the screen.
«Percentage» adjusts the representation on the screen to the desired value.
«+ / -» enlarges or reduces the size of the representation.
100% shows the original size of the document.
«Zoom by page width» extends the document to the page width.
«Show whole page» displays the complete document.

Page 54 of 56
 «Page» field

Page margins Adjusts the width of the page margins on all four sides of the paper.
Click on the arrows to increase / decrease the margins in millimeter.

Page orientation Allows to represent the document in portrait or landscape format.

Typography The button «Change font…» allows to select a font that is installed
on the computer.

Select a font type, the style and the font size from the list boxes.
Pay attention to the fact that only TrueType fonts are supported.

Line height Increases the line spacing. The normal value is 100%. Click on the
arrows to increase / decrease the line spacing by 10%.

Space before text Adjusts the spacing between headings and text blocks. Click on the
arrows to increase / decrease the line spacing by 1 millimeter.

5.7.5 Save / export options

Reports, protocols and other documents can be saved in one of the following formats:
 *.pdf (Portable Document File)
 *.xls (Microsoft Excel [Office 2003 or older] file)
 *.xlsx (Microsoft Excel [XML format, Office 2007 or later] file)
 *.csv (Comma-separated value)
 *.rtf (Rich Text Format)

Page 55 of 56