Member of: KNX Association | OPC Foundation
BACnet Interest Group Europe
Document version: 2.0.6
Contents
1
2
3
Product Description
1.1 Main Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1 Overview of Consumption and Cost Calculation . .
1.2.2 Types of Consumption Calculation of Cost Centers
1.2.3 Types of Cost Calculation of Cost Centers . . . . .
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Getting Started
2.1 First Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.1.1 Editor Workspace . . . . .
2.1.2 Create Resource . . . . .
2.1.3 Create Tariff . . . . . . . .
2.1.4 Create Meter . . . . . . .
2.1.5 Create Cost Center . . . .
2.1.6 Create Project . . . . . .
2.1.6.1
Chart . . . . .
2.1.6.2
Table . . . . .
2.1.7 Documents . . . . . . . .
2.1.7.1
Save . . . . .
2.1.7.2
Add an Action
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NETx MaRS Module
3.1 Core data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1 Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.1
Dialog: “Folder: <Name>” . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.2
Dialog: “Tariff: <Name>” . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.3
Dialog: “Edit data” . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2 Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.1
Dialog: “Folder: <Name>” . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.2
Dialog: “Resource: <Name>” . . . . . .
3.1.2.3
Dialog: “Edit data” . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2 Plant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1 Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.1
Dialog: “Folder: <Name>” . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.2
Dialog: “Meter” . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.3
Dialog: “Virtual Meter” . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.4
Dialog: “Indicator” . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2 Cost centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.1
Dialog: “Folder: <Name>” . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.2
Dialog: “Cost center: <Name>” . . . . .
3.3 Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.1 Cost structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.1.1
Dialog: “Element assignment: <Name>”
3.3.2 Document management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4 Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.3.1
Dialog: “Report Generator”
Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.1 Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.2 Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.3 Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.4 Document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.5 Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.6 User . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.7 View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.8 Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5.9 Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tools and modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.8.1 Device explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.8.2 User management . . . . . . . . . . .
A Appendix
A.1 Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.2 Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.2.1 Hardlock . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.2.2 Softlock . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.2.2.1
Software Licensing .
A.2.2.2
Software Unlicensing
A.3 Support and contact . . . . . . . . . .
A.4 System Requirements . . . . . . . . .
A.4.1 Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.4.2 Supported Operating Systems .
A.4.3 Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NETx MaRS 2.0.6
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Page 3 of 32
Copyright
This published handbook refers to the release of NETx MaRS 2.0. The
software is published by NETxAutomation Software GmbH, Maria–Theresia–
Straße 41, Top 10, 4600 Wels, Austria.
© Copyright by NETxAutomation Software GmbH, 2016. The correct and
usable documentation can only be guaranteed in connection with the regulations of the software agreement. Changes regarding the size of the function
volume of the mentioned software can be done and may not involve a change
of the documentation.
All rights are reserved. Copies, translations, micro filming and the storage
and processing in data processing systems are copyrighted. No part of this
publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher
NETxAutomation Software GmbH.
NETx MaRS 2.0.6
Page 4 of 32
1. Product Description
NETx MaRS 2.0
The Metering and Reporting System NETx MaRS is a modern, user-friendly software that analyzes and displays
metering data that is collected from smart metering devices. This data is stored in a central database where it is
available for further analyzing and processing tasks. Due to the flexibility of NETx MaRS, it can be used as a central,
company-wide data collection for smart metering data. The gathered information can be metering data of any
arbitrary resource like energy, water, air, or gas that is collected continuously together with other meta-information
originating from any smart meter.
In addition to simply collecting metering data, NETx MaRS can also be used to further process the gathered
information. Within NETx MaRS, it is possible to define a hierarchically organized cost center structure that reflects
the existing structure within the company or building. Based on this structure, comprehensive consumption and
cost calculations can be performed. These calculations can be done for a single meter, for a dedicated resource,
for a cost center, or for any combination of them. The results can then be used to generate user-defined documents
like diagrams, graphs, tables that contain billing information, or even user-defined reports that can be created using
the build-in report generator. Furthermore, it is possible to export the results to third-party application for further
processing using open interfaces.
These consumption and cost calculations that are performed by NETx MaRS are important inputs for analyzing the
behavior of the energy consumers within a building. Therefore, NETx MaRS helps to reduce operating costs lasting
and encourages the economic and ecological use of resources.
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1.1. Main Criteria
• Metering and Reporting System (MaRS) for smart metering of any arbitrary energy resource
• Integration of any smart metering device like electricity meter, water meter, heat meter, . . .
• Based on the collected metering data NETx MaRS Editor performs consumption and cost calculations
• Possible distribution of cost and consumption values to different cost centers
• Further processing of metering data is possible (e.g. creating of user-specific bills, reports, diagrams, tables)
• Report generator included
• Export to Excel or other third-party systems possible
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1.2. System Overview
The main goal of a building automation system is to provide increased comfort while keeping an efficient use of all
available resources in mind. Thus, building automation systems do not only reduce the overall operational costs
for maintenance but also decrease energy consumption and mainly contribute to environmental protection. To be
able to increase the energy efficiency of modern buildings, monitoring the energy consumption of the different
energy consumers as well as analyzing their overall energy behavior are key requirements. The most important
input data for this analyzing purpose is the consumption values of these energy consumers that are measured by
smart metering devices.
This is where NETx MaRS comes into play. NETx MaRS is a software tool that is focused on fulfilling the needs for
analyzing, monitoring, and further processing smart metering data. In detail, NETx MaRS has the following main
goals:
• Collecting metering data of different smart meters that measure consumption values of any arbitrary resource
•
•
•
•
•
(e.g. electricity, water, heat, gas, oil, air, . . . )
Storing the collected values into the central database where it is available for further processing
Optionally importing existing consumption values from foreign sources (e.g. available database)
Performing consumption and cost calculations based on a defined cost center structure
Generate presentation documents of the calculation such as diagrams, graphs, tables, billing reports
Provide open interfaces to third-party applications for further processing of the calculated results
1.2.1. Overview of Consumption and Cost Calculation
The Chart and Table view offer the same types of calculations namely to show consumption or costs based on
measured values and/or imported values. By this the NETx MaRS system is very flexible regarding which values
should be summed up and how the calculation should be done. So the basis of the calculation will be either
measured values from meters and/or imported values from bills of resource service providers e.g. electricity or
water providers.
1.2.2. Types of Consumption Calculation of Cost Centers
• Measured consumption – For consumption the pure measured values from meters and additionally consumption data from bills on monthly basis can be summed up. This will be done in consideration of assigned
percentage of the meters.
• Divide the indicated consumption by the consumption factor – Here no meters are necessary. The total
consumption of a resource needs to be imported in the resource on monthly basis. Also in the resource the
consumption factor needs to be defined e.g. an area in “m2” with 1000 square meters. The consumption of
the cost center is calculated then on basis of its consumption factor e.g. its area of “100 m2”, which is then
10% of the consumption.
1.2.3. Types of Cost Calculation of Cost Centers
• Calculate measured consumption with the standard tariff – For consumption the pure measured values
from meters and additionally consumption data from bills on monthly basis can be summed up. This will be
done in consideration of assigned percentage of the meters.
• Divide the indicated consumption by the consumption factor – The cost of the cost center is calculated
from the imported costs on basis of its consumption factor of cost center to the consumption factor of the
resource. With this costs can be spread to according cost centers by using abstract consumption factors.
These could be based on used area within a building or on percentage basis. The consumption factor makes
available a flexible and fair way to spread costs of a resource to different cost centers.
• Divide the indicated costs by the measured consumption – The cost of the cost center is calculated on
basis of the relation of imported costs and consumption in the resource on monthly base and then multiplied
by the measured consumptions.
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2. Getting Started
2.1. First Steps
The following step by step example shall help the user to get introduced into the software. It gives an idea of how
the components of NETx MaRS work together.
2.1.1. Editor Workspace
To display recorded data it is necessary to create a NETx MaRS Module Workspace. To accomplish this the first
step is to select the “New Workspace” command of the “Workspace” menu. Fill in the new Workspace name. Then
click the “OK” button.
Figure 2.1.: Create new NETx MaRS Module Workspace
The next screen contains the project properties such as the sign for the used currency or notes of the author. To
save and continue click the “OK” button. (Figure 2.2)
Figure 2.2.: Set Project Properties
The last screen of the creation wizard needs to be filled in with the user information of the Workspace administrator.
(Figure 2.3)
Figure 2.3.: Create Administrative User
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2.1.2. Create Resource
After the wizard has closed resources and rates need to be defined, where-after meters and cost centers need to
be specified. Resources and rates need to be created first since meters and cost centers depend on them. The
context menu in “Core Data” under “Resources” contains the entry “New resource. . . ”. Once selected a dialog will
open. Mandatory fields are colored in red. They need to be filled out. With “OK” the resource will be created. The
“Name” is the unique identifier of the resource. “Short Name” needs to be unique as well. The field “Unit” describes
the measurement for the resource consumed (e.g. water: “m3 ”, electricity “kWh”).
Figure 2.4.: Create Resource
The “Consumption factor” is a base value for the consumption calculation of the resource. Using the example of a
shopping mall the water resource could be split up among the single shops based on their area in relation to the
whole area of the mall. The ‘Consumption factor” is set in the similarly named tab (cf. Figure 2.5).
Figure 2.5.: Configure Consumption Factor
2.1.3. Create Tariff
The costs are defined in a rate or tariff. It needs to be defined in the “Rates” Tab. Right click the “Tariffs” root item
and select “New tariff. . . ” to create a new one. Mandatory fields are red-colored. Click “OK” to create the resource.
“Name” and “Short name” need to be unique (cf. Figure 2.6). Varying values during different periods of time can be
entered into the “Price table” on a monthly basis. Outside these given periods, the standard tariff is used.
The newly created tariff finds its use in a resource. It can now be chosen from a drop down list in the resource
dialog (cf. Figure 2.4).
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Figure 2.6.: Configure tariff
2.1.4. Create Meter
Select “New meter . . . ” from the context menu in part-window “Plant” – tab “Devices”. Fill in the mandatory fields
shown in red and create the meter in confirming the dialog with “OK” (cf. Figure 2.7). “Name” and “Short name”
need to be unique again.
Figure 2.7.: New Meter
Select now tab “Data Point”. Data points from NETx MaRS Server or virtual data points can be added by clicking
the plus-button in the upper left corner (cf. Figure 2.8).
2.1.5. Create Cost Center
To add a cost center select “New cost center. . . ” in the context menu of the root node inside the “Plant” window on
tab “Cost Center”. A dialog will open (cf. Figure 2.9). The mandatory fields colored in red need to be filled out and
by clicking “OK” the cost center will be created. Hereby “Name” and “Short name” need to be unique names among
all cost centers.
In the “Consumption factor” tab the resource shall be selected. In addition it is possible to define the consumption
ratio. This is a share of the “Total value” defined in the resource. It could be entered as an area of a total area or a
percentage of the total consumption (cf. Figure 2.10)).
2.1.6. Create Project
The project can be designed in a tree view of cost centers, sub cost centers, and meters. This is done within the
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Figure 2.8.: Add Data Point To Meter
Figure 2.9.: Cost Center - General Information
Figure 2.10.: Cost Center - Consumption
“Project” window in the tab “Cost structure”. It is possible to subordinate cost centers to others. Even more, it is
possible to use the hierarchical structure to share total costs between subordinated cost centers. The costs of
a cost center depend on the costs calculated by the output values of subordinated meters or costs calculated in
consideration of the consumption factors of the cost center itself. Costs based on subordinated meters will be
calculated calling the defined tariff.
The project can be created by dragging cost centers or meters right into the hierarchy of the project tree (cf. Figure
2.11).
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Figure 2.11.: Project Tree with Cost Centers and Meters
The NETx MaRS Module allows the user to create new graphs, charts, or tables right in the center of the application
window. New part windows will appear which can be moved freely inside the panel. Cost centers or meters can be
dragged and dropped to an empty chart or table. A little configuration is to be added and the charts immediately
can be explored. To graphs only meters can be added.
Figure 2.12.: Project example: Shopping Mall
2.1.6.1. Chart
A chart view is used to display either consumption of a resource or costs of a resource. Raw meter data is possible
to be displayed too. Cost centers and meters can be placed at the chart by drag and drop (cf. Figure 2.13). A chart
can be saved to the document management just like graphs or tables.
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Figure 2.13.: Chart configuration
2.1.6.2. Table
A table is used to display either consumption or costs of a cost center. Cost centers can be placed at the table by
drag and drop (cf. Figure 2.14). A table can be saved to the document management like charts. It is also possible
to display the raw data of meters in a table.
Figure 2.14.: Table configuration
2.1.7. Documents
Documents are all “Charts” and “Tables” possible to be displayed inside the NETx MaRS Module. Several different
commands can be applied to them.
2.1.7.1. Save
Select the document to be saved and click the button “Save Doc” within the tool bar. The document including all
its properties will be stored and an item will appear in “Project” window inside the tab “Document management” –
“Stored documents”. The command to save a selected document can be called from the menu bar “Document” –
“Save current document” as well. Once a stored document is selected it can be reopened by either selecting the
appropriate command from the menu bar or the context menu of the document itself.
2.1.7.2. Add an Action
The command “Add Action . . . ” on a document item will open the dialog “Report Generator” (cf. Figure 2.15).
An action allows the user to have the document being sent on a regular basis to any predefined email address.
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The values of the document will be the current ones. The email system needs to be configured first in the project
configuration before the feature can be used.
Figure 2.15.: Report Generator
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3. NETx MaRS Module
The NETx MaRS Module allows the user to set up a workspace which consists of resources, tariffs, cost centers,
meters, data points, and the relations between each of them. It is possible to graphically display the consumption
of resources and the resulting costs, split the costs among cost centers and bill them. Once all relevant data is
fed to the software it needs a few clicks only to have a clear overview about the costs or their development over a
past time period. Questions like “Where was a peak consumption?” or “What is the major cost causer?” can be
answered quickly in detail.
Working with the NETx MaRS Module is oriented bottom-up. Tariffs and resources need to be defined first before
they can be used on meters. The consumption and costs of the latter ones can be split amongst cost centers.
This development again can be displayed in tables, summed up for billing purposes and analyzed for cost saving
measures.
3.1. Core data
It is generally distinguished between core data and dynamic data. Core data is usually static and will change most
seldom only. Resources and Tariffs count amongst them. Thus they are introduced underneath category “Core
Data”.
3.1.1. Rates
In the tab “Rates” the user will find or can define the different tariffs of the resources. The price per unit in
combination with the consumption or disposal will lead to the costs.
“Tariffs” is the root node. The user may create folders in it to be able to group tariffs. A possible example can be
“Water” to contain all water relevant tariffs. Sub-folders named “Drinking Water”, “Industrial Water”, and “Waste
Water” can provide finer classification.
3.1.1.1. Dialog: “Folder: <Name>”
A right click on “Tariffs” will open the context menu. In selecting “New folder . . . ” a dialog will appear in which
properties of a new folder can be set. Folders in the tariff definitions feature the following context menu entries:
New tariff. . . – shows the tariff dialog and creates a new tariff.
New folder. . . – shows the folder dialog and creates a new folder.
Delete that folder – erases the current folder.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected folder.
Dialog:
Name
Description
Folder
Folder: <Name>
The name of the folder needs to be put here. It is the only mandatory field in the
dialog.
The user can place a description of the folder in this field.
If the new folder is supposed to be situated underneath another folder the parent
folder can be selected in this drop-down-list.
3.1.1.2. Dialog: “Tariff: <Name>”
A new tariff can be added by calling the context menu of either a folder or the root node “Tariffs”. The menu point
“New tariff. . . ” will open the according dialog (cf. 2.6).
Tariffs in the tariff definitions feature the following context menu entries:
Delete that tariff – erases the selected tariff.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected tariff.
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Tab:
Name
Short name
Default price per unit
Folder
General
Contains the name of the tariff. It is suggested to use descriptive longer names like
“Water Default Tariff” or “Electricity Seasonal Tariff Fall”.
The field contains the short name of the tariff.
If nothing else defined this price will be used in the cost calculation where this tariff
is involved.
If the tariff is supposed to appear in a folder it needs to be selected in this dropdown-list.
Tab:
Resource
Short name
Assigned to
This column contains the names of all resources the tariff is assigned to.
This column contains the short names of all resources the tariff is assigned to.
Tab:
Year
Month
Price per unit
Price table
The year in which this price is valid.
The month in which this price is valid.
The price per unit for the time period displayed.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning the specific tariff.
3.1.1.3. Dialog: “Edit data”
Dialog:
Year
Month
Price per unit
Edit data
The year in which this price is valid.
The month in which this price is valid.
The price per unit for the time period defined above.
3.1.2. Resources
In the window “Core data” in tab “Resources” the user can define and view the resources of the project. The
consumption (e.g. fresh water) or disposal (e.g. waste water) of resources in combination with the tariffs will lead to
costs. So resources are a vital part of the workspace.
The root node is called “Resources”. To structure and group them it can be of useful to create folders. “Consumption”
resources of the sub-group “Solid” could be “Coal” or “Wood Chips” where “Disposal” – “Fluid” could contain “Waste
Water”.
3.1.2.1. Dialog: “Folder: <Name>”
To create a folder it is necessary to call the context menu off the root node or another folder. “New folder . . . ” is to
be chosen to open the according dialog. Folders in the resources definitions feature the following context menu
entries:
New resource. . . – shows the resource dialog and creates a new resource.
New folder. . . – shows the folder dialog and creates a new folder.
Delete that folder – erases the current folder.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected folder.
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Dialog:
Name
Description
Folder
Folder: <Name>
The name of the folder needs to be put here. It is the only mandatory field in the
dialog.
The user can place a description of the folder in this field.
If the new folder is supposed to be situated underneath another folder the parent
folder can be selected in this drop-down-list.
3.1.2.2. Dialog: “Resource: <Name>”
A new resource can be added by calling the context menu of either a folder or the root node “Resources”. The
menu point “New resource . . . ” will open a dialog to edit the properties of the resource (cf. 2.4).
Resources in the resource definitions feature the following context menu entries:
Delete that resource – erases the selected resource.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected resource.
Tab:
Name
Short name
Unit
Default tariff
Folder
Tab:
Meter
Short name
General
It contains the name of the resource. It is suggested to use descriptive names like
“Fresh Water”, “Waste Water”, or “Earth Gas”.
The field contains the short name of the resource.
The unit in which the resource is measured (e.g. m3 on water or kWh on electricity)
is placed here.
The default tariff for the resource can be selected from this drop-down-list.
If the resource is supposed to appear in a folder it needs to be selected in this
drop-down-list.
Assigned to
This column contains the names of all meters the resource is assigned to.
This column contains the short names of all meters the resource is assigned to.
Additionally to consumptions measured by meters it is possible to record fixed ones manually. This can be of
use to calculate and split costs for any resources which are recorded by hand (e.g. trash, bottled drinking water).
These records may contain a zero value on either costs or consumption but not on both parameters. If nothing was
consumed or no costs occurred the fields in the edit dialog will be marked in a different color.
Tab:
Year
Month
Costs
Consumption
Consumption table
The year in which the consumption has occurred.
The month in which the consumption has occurred.
The price for the consumption of that period.
The consumption of that period.
Consumption can be split amongst cost centers. The Consumption factor builds the base for this calculation. Cost
can be split by many means like “area”, “fraction”, “people”, etc. Thus the Consumption factor could be the total
population of an apartment complex or the whole area of all shops in a mall.
Tab:
Name
Unit
Total value
Consumption factor
The name of the total consumption factor.
The unit in which the factor is calculated in.
The total amount of the factor.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning this specific resource.
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3.1.2.3. Dialog: “Edit data”
This dialog will be called when a consumption is added to a resource or edited.
Dialog:
Year
Month
Costs
Consumption
Edit data
The year in which the consumption has occurred.
The month in which the consumption has occurred.
The price for the consumption of that period.
The consumption of that period.
3.2. Plant
The window “Plant” resembles the physical environment of the project. The user can create and manage meters as
much as cost centers. Both together build the base of the cost structure of the workspace later on.
3.2.1. Devices
The meters in NETx MaRS are the connection between the physical data points and the cost calculation. They will
count resources and the amount multiplied with the according tariff will result in base costs which then can be split
amongst cost centers.
“Devices” build the root node. It can directly contain meters or hold them inside sub-folders. This structure is strictly
for the purpose of keeping them in an order. The cost structure responsible for calculations will be in the project
window.
3.2.1.1. Dialog: “Folder: <Name>”
To create a folder it is necessary to call the context menu off the root node or another folder. “New folder . . . ” is to
be chosen to open the according dialog.
Folders in the devices definitions feature the following context menu entries:
New meter. . . – shows the meter dialog and creates a new meter.
New virtual meter. . . – shows the virtual meter dialog to create a new virtual meter.
New indicator. . . – shows the indicator dialog to create a new indicator.
New folder. . . – shows the folder dialog to create a new folder.
Delete that folder – erases the current folder.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected folder.
Dialog:
Name
Plant ID
Part ID
Description
Folder
Folder: <Name>
The name of the folder needs to be put here. It is the only mandatory field in the
dialog.
The “Plant ID” of a Folder consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part IDs of
all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a folder is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
The user can place a description of the folder in this field.
If the new folder is supposed to be situated underneath another folder the parent
folder can be selected in this drop-down-list.
3.2.1.2. Dialog: “Meter”
To add a meter the user needs to call the context menu from any of the folders or the root node “Devices”. “New
meter. . . ” needs to be called. A dialog will open for editing the meter parameters (cf. 2.7).
Meters in the device definitions feature the following context menu entries:
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Delete – erases the selected meter.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected meter.
Tab:
Name
Short name
Resource
Plant ID
Part ID
Folder
Tab:
Cost center
Short name
Assigned in %
Tab:
WID
General
It contains the name of the meter. It is suggested to use descriptive names like
“Main-Meter Fresh-Water Default-Tariff”.
The field contains the short name of the meter (e.g. MM_FW_DT_01).
The resource which the meter will measure (e.g. Fluids\Water\Fresh Water (m3 ) ) is
selected here.
The “Plant ID” of a meter consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part IDs of
all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a meter is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
If the meter is supposed to appear in a folder it needs to be selected in this dropdown-list.
Assigned to
This column contains the names of all cost centers the meter is assigned to in the
cost structure.
This column contains the short names of all cost centers the meter is assigned to.
The percentage, in which the costs, the counted resource caused, are split amongst
the assigned cost centers, is shown here.
ItemID
Data point
The WID (world identification) is the unique identifier of the datapoint inside the
NETx MaRS-system which was associated to the meter.
This contains the description of the datapoint defined in the NETx MaRS Server
Studio.
The Item-ID of the OPC datapoint is displayed in this column.
Tab:
Year
Month
Value
Value table
The year in which the consumption has occurred.
The month in which the consumption has occurred.
The value for the consumption of that period.
Tab:
Sum of month values
of data points
Month value from data
table
Value
This adds all values measured by the datapoint of the meter for the desired time
frame.
When this option is enabled the value added in the “Value table” will be split and
added to the meter’s value (e.g. 3000 in June will be split by 30 days and 100 will be
added to each of the daily sums).
A fix value will be split up and added to the meter data each month, if this option is
set.
Notes
Constant month value
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning this specific meter.
3.2.1.3. Dialog: “Virtual Meter”
To add a virtual meter the user needs to call the context menu from any of the folders or the root node “Devices”.
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“New meter. . . ” needs to be called. A dialog will open for editing the parameters of the virtual meter.
Virtual meters in the device definitions feature the following context menu entries:
Delete – erases the selected virtual meter.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected virtual meter.
Tab:
Name
Short name
Resource
Plant ID
Part ID
Folder
Tab:
Cost center
Short name
Assigned in %
Tab:
Year
Month
Read values from
database
Import values from Excel
General
It contains the name of the virtual meter. It is suggested to use descriptive names
like “Main-Meter Industrial-Water Default-Tariff”.
The field contains the short name of the virtual meter (e.g. VMM_IW_DT_01).
The resource which the virtual meter will measure (e.g. Fluids\Water\Fresh Water
(m3 ) ) is selected here.
The “Plant ID” of a virtual meter consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part
IDs of all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a virtual meter is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
If the virtual meter is supposed to appear in a folder it needs to be selected in this
drop-down-list.
Assigned to
This column contains the names of all cost centers the virtual meter is assigned to in
the cost structure.
This column contains the short names of all cost centers the virtual meter is assigned
to.
The percentage, in which the costs, the counted resource caused, are split amongst
the assigned cost centers, is shown here.
Day
Value
Virtual values
The user can select the year for the virtual values from this drop-down-box.
The user can select the month for the virtual values from this drop-down-box.
When this button is pressed virtual data will be read from the database for the
previously defined time span.
This button will create a file-open-dialog. The user may select an Excel file of no
later version than Excel 2003. The format of the file shall be two columns where the
first one contains the day of the month and the second one the value to import. After
confirmation the file will be imported.
The days of the selected month will be listed in this column.
The date related virtual values are listed in this column.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning the specific virtual meter.
3.2.1.4. Dialog: “Indicator”
To add an indicator the user needs to call the context menu from any of the folders or the root node “Devices”. “New
indicator. . . ” needs to be called. A dialog will open for editing the parameters of the indicator.
Indicators in the device definitions feature the following context menu entries:
Delete – erases the selected indicator.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected indicator.
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Tab:
Name
Short name
Resource
Plant ID
Part ID
Folder
Tab:
WID
General
It contains the name of the indicator. It is suggested to use descriptive names like
“Indicator Outdoor-Temperature Default-Tariff”. Temperature is a resource as well and
thus may have a tariff assigned to.
The field contains the short name of the indicator (e.g. IND_OT_DT_01).
The resource which the indicator will measure (e.g. Fluids\Water\Fresh Water (m3 ) )
is selected here.
The “Plant ID” of a indicator consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part IDs
of all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a indicator is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
If the indicator is supposed to appear in a folder it needs to be selected in this
drop-down-list.
ItemID
Data point
The WID (world identification) is the unique identifier of the datapoint inside the
NETx MaRS-system which was associated to the indicator.
This contains the description of the datapoint defined in the NETx MaRS Server
Studio.
The Item-ID of the OPC datapoint is displayed in this column.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning this specific indicator.
Notes
3.2.2. Cost centers
Cost centers represent causers of costs. This may be a contractor, a person, a place, or anything similar. Costs can
be split amongst cost centers and booked to them in a set fraction or according to parameters like area or count of
users.
The root node is called “Cost centers”. It can contain a structure of sub-folders or the cost centers themselves.
Placing cost centers into folders will not influence their behavior in the project’s cost structure.
3.2.2.1. Dialog: “Folder: <Name>”
To create a folder it is necessary to call the context menu off the root node or another folder. “New folder . . . ” is to
be chosen to open the according dialog. Folders in the cost centers feature the following context menu entries:
New cost center. . . – shows the cost center dialog and creates a new cost center.
New folder. . . – shows the folder dialog and creates a new folder.
Delete that folder – erases the current folder.
Properties . . . – opens the dialog containing the properties of the currently selected folder.
Dialog:
Name
Plant ID
Part ID
Description
Folder
NETx MaRS 2.0.6
Folder: <Name>
The name of the folder needs to be put here. It is the only mandatory field in the
dialog.
The “Plant ID” of a Folder consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part IDs of
all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a folder is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
The user can place a description of the folder in this field.
If the new folder is supposed to be situated underneath another folder the parent
folder can be selected in this drop-down-list.
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3.2.2.2. Dialog: “Cost center: <Name>”
For the purpose to create a new cost center in the current workspace, it is necessary to select the option “New cost
center. . . ” in the context menu. Selecting this option opens a dialog with the settings of the cost center, with the
following items (cf. 2.9):
Tab:
Name
General
It contains the name of the resource. It is suggested to use descriptive names like
“Fresh Water”, “Waste Water”, or “Earth Gas”.
The field contains the short name of the resource.
The “Plant ID” of a Folder consists of its own “Part ID” and the sum of all part IDs of
all parent folders. It serves administrative purposes only.
The “Part ID” of a folder is the appended part of its “Plant ID”.
If the new folder is supposed to be situated underneath another folder the parent
folder can be selected in this drop-down-list.
Short name
Plant ID
Part ID
Folder
Tab:
Assigned to
Tab:
Subordinated
ments
Assigned to
Contains a list of cost centers the actual cost center is assigned too.
ele-
Subordinated elements
Contains a list of elements the cost center is ordinated too.
Tab:
Consumption factor of
resource
Percentage/Area
Consumption factor
With this setting the factor of the cost factor can be selected, which is used to
calculate the rate of the cost center.
This field enables to define the percentage or area of the cost factor for the resource.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning this specific cost center.
3.3. Project
The window "‘Projekt"’ provides a graphical overview about the project structure. Beside the listing of the cost
structure, it is possible to create snapshots of the actual state of the project.
3.3.1. Cost structure
The alignment of the whole project including all individual cost centers are listed in the cost structure. If the root
node “Projekt” is chosen, the following functionalities can be executed:
Create snapshot. . . – enables to create a snapshot of the current state of the project.
Export project . . . – the current project can be exported into a .mew file.
Properties . . . – opens the configuration dialog for the current project.
If a cost center or meter is selected in the cost structure, there are a few options available to edit the element.
Element properties. . . – enables to edit the selected element over the properties dialog.
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Link properties . . . – opens the dialog to edit the properties of the link.
Add to current chart . . . – adds the selected element to the diagram.
Add to current table . . . – adds the selected element to the table.
Move down . . . – enables to move down the element in the structure position.
Move up . . . – enables to move up the element in the structure position.
Delete that link . . . – deletes the selected link.
3.3.1.1. Dialog: “Element assignment: <Name>”
The cost centers and meters of the project can be assigned among themselves, for the ability to optimally depict the
conditions of a building. If the dialog to edit the link is opened, the assigned percentages can be defined.
Tab:
Element name
Short name
Assigned to
Short name
Assigned in
General
Shows the name of the selected element.
The field contains the short name of the element.
Shows to which cost center the element is assigned to.
The short name of the cost center to which the element is assigned.
With this parameter the percentage of the linked cost center can be defined.
Tab:
Notes
Notes
Here the user has room for notes concerning the specific link between the cost
centers.
3.3.2. Document management
All stored documents e.g. Tables or Diagrams are administered in the document-management. Furthermore, project
snapshots are also managed in this tab.
Stored documents can be selected in the folder “Documents”. In the context menu of selected items, there are a
couple of functionalities to edit and activate the documents.
Open document – opens the selected document in the main window of the application.
Add action . . . – starts the Report Generator to define a new report.
Rename . . . – enables to rename the stored document.
Delete . . . – deletes the document from the document-management.
To create a snapshot of the actual project, the root node “Project-snapshots . . . ” needs to be selected. With the
function “Create new snapshot . . . ”, it is possible to store the actual state of the project. The created snapshot is
then available in the folder “Project-snapshots . . . ” of the document management tab.
There are a few options which can be assigned to created snapshots. After selecting one of the snapshots the
context menu shows the following parameter:
Restore project from . . . – enables to restore the project from the document management.
Rename . . . – opens the dialog to rename the selected snapshot.
Delete . . . – deletes the snapshot from the document structure.
3.4. Documents
The NETx MaRS Editor defines two different kinds of documents. There are the tables on the one hand and on the
other hand the charts. These documents are different in their appearance, but they have equal parameters and
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functionalities. A document can be printed, exported to a file and sent via E-Mail.
3.4.1. Table
Adding devices and cost centers to tables can be done via right-click on the element in the project structure tree
and selecting the function “Adding to current table”. The NETx MaRS Editor enable per Drag and Drop functionality
the possibility to connect the elements with the documents. Via right click in the plant structure tree, the device can
be added to a table.
Dialog:
Title
Time range
Determined values
Raw data
Document configuration
Specifies the title of the document.
Changes the displayed time range until today´s date.
Changes the document to show the determined values.
Shows the measured values directly in the document.
3.4.2. Chart
Adding devices and cost centers to tables can be done via right-click on the element in the project structure tree
and selecting the function “Adding to current chart”. The NETx MaRS Editor enable per Drag and Drop functionality
the possibility to connect the elements with the documents.
Dialog:
Title
Resource
Time range
Consumption
Cost
Forecast
Chart appearance
View configuration
Specifies the title of the document.
To display the units it is necessary to define a resource.
Changes the displayed time interval depending on the defined area.
Shows either measured or calculated values in relation to the defined consumption
factor.
Shows either measured or calculated values in relation to the defined consumption
factor.
Calculates the forecast based on the past 3 month.
Enables to adapt the form and colors of the chart.
3.4.3. Actions
To process and forward the recorded data of the NETx MaRS system, the NETx MaRS Editor provides different
possibilities. Beside the exporting and printing of defined data, the data can be automatically forwarded to receiver.
For this purpose, an action can be defined in the “Report Generator” - dialog.
3.4.3.1. Dialog: “Report Generator”
The report generator enables to create repeating orders of reports for specific documents. This enables the user to
receive reports of defined cost structures to periodically defined points in time via e-mail. The dialog for generating
these reports has some important parameters to be set:
Tab:
Name
E-mail addresses
Destination file
Comment
Time
Recurrances
NETx MaRS 2.0.6
Report Generator
Defines the name of the report.
Up to three E-mail addresses of users or costumers can be defined, to receive the
report.
Defines the destination file in which the report is stored. If the file exists it is backed
up by adding a sequence number to the file.
Here the user has room for comments concerning the report.
Defines the time when the report should be generated.
Enables the user to generate the report in daily, weekly or monthly recurrences.
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3.5. Menu
The NETx MaRS Editor provides comfortable and well known navigation via a menu bar, where all important
functionalities can be directly invoked. In the following section, all the available menu items are described.
3.5.1. Project
The menu item “Project” contains the following options:
Database configuration . . . – opens the database configuration dialog.
New Workspace . . . – opens the configuration dialog for a new workspace.
Open Workspace . . . – starts the dialog to select the workspace which should be opened.
Save Workspace – saves the current workspace on the hard drive.
Save Workspace as . . . – enables to select where the user wants to save the workspace.
Export Workspace . . . – exports the workspace to a *.mew file.
Import Workspace . . . – enables to import the workspace from a *.mew file.
Close Workspace – closes the actual workspace in the application.
Delete Workspace . . . – deletes the workspace from the hard drive.
Configuration . . . – opens the project configuration dialog.
Clear global data cache – clear all the data from the global data cache.
Reload item definitions – reloads the item definitions.
Select language . . . – starts the dialog to select the language the editor should start with.
Quit – closes the application.
3.5.2. Table
The menu item “Table” contains the following options:
New Table – opens a new table window in the main view of the application.
Save Table – saves the current selected table.
3.5.3. Chart
The menu item “Chart” contains the following options:
New Chart – opens a new chart window in the main view of the application.
Save Chart – saves the current selected chart.
3.5.4. Document
The menu item “Document” contains the following options:
Save current document – saves the current selected document.
Open document – opens the selected document.
Print current document – opens the dialog for printing the current document.
Export current document – exports the current document to a *.png.
Send current document – opens a dialog to enter the E-Mail the document should be sent too.
Rename document – opens the dialog to rename the selected document.
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Delete document – deletes the document from the workspace.
3.5.5. Devices
The menu item “Devices” contains the following options:
Open Device Explorer – opens the Explorer to maintain and create devices for the current project.
3.5.6. User
The menu item “User” contains the following options:
Login – opens a dialog to switch between users.
New User. . . – opens the dialog to create a new user.
Edit User. . . – opens a dialog to edit the user.
Change Password. . . – opens a dialog to change the password for the user.
Delete User. . . – deletes the user configuration from the workspace.
3.5.7. View
The menu item “View” contains the following options:
Cost structure tree – show or hide selected item.
Plant structure tree – show or hide selected item.
Core data tree – show or hide selected item.
Explorer – show or hide selected item.
System messages – show or hide selected item.
Toolbars – show or hide selected item.
Status bar – show or hide selected item.
Restore panel position – orders the windows in the default position in the panel.
3.5.8. Window
The menu item “Window” contains the following options:
Tile horizontally – Tiles the opened windows horizontally in the main window.
Tile vertically – Windows are vertically tiled in the main window..
Cascade – Open windows are cascaded in the main window.
Close all – closes all open windows.
List of windows – a list of open windows enables to quickly select specific documents.
3.5.9. Help
The “Help” menu contains the following items:
Registration – opens the NETx MaRS Module registration tool.
About – opens the information dialog to the product.
Documentation... – opens the NETx MaRS Module documentation.
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3.6. Toolbar
The toolbar enable quick access to functionalities which are often used to provide a comfortable editing of the
current project.
Open – starts the dialog to select the workspace to open.
Save – saves the current workspace in the project directory.
The following features are enabled when a document is open in the main view of the application.
Print – opens the dialog for printing the current document.
Export – opens the destination directory dialog to export the document to excel.
Send – enables to send the current document via email to a client.
Save Doc – provides to save the document in the current workspace.
Config View – opens the document configuration dialog to configure the actual document.
Refresh – refreshes the document in the main screen.
3.7. Window
The application provides different functionalities to bring the windows of the main window into order. Furthermore,
the navigation between the open windows is simplified over this menu item. In the toolbar the functionalities can be
found in the menu “Window”:
Tile horizontally – Tiles the opened windows horizontally in the main window.
Tile vertically – Windows are vertically tiled in the main window..
Cascade – Open windows are cascaded in the main window.
Close all – closes all open windows.
Additionally all open windows are displayed in list form in the menu. This allows simple navigation to specific
windows.
3.8. Tools and modules
The application provides different tools and modules which help to comfortably use all the available features and
functionalities of the system.
3.8.1. Device explorer
In the toolbar under “Devices” the option “Open Devices Explorer” opens the dialog where all defined devices are
listed. Additionally to the list of devices, there are buttons to edit the meters, virtual meters or indicators of the
configuration. The following functionalities are available in the “Device Explorer” - dialog.
Edit . . . – opens the device configuration dialog to edit the parameter.
New Meter . . . – the dialog to define a new meter is opened.
New Virtual Meter . . . – opens the dialog to define a new virtual meter.
New Indicator . . . – the configuration dialog to define a indicator device is opened.
Delete . . . – the selected device is deleted.
Export to Excel . . . – the device data can be exported over the destination directory dialog.
The dialog “Device Explorer” provides the possibility to sort the list of defined devices according to specific parameter
like name or description. It is also possible to search for specific devices in the displayed list.
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3.8.2. User management
The current workspace can be managed and maintained by multiple different users. For this purpose it is very
convenient, if there is a possibility to create different accounts with different access rights. In the toolbar the different
functionality‘s for handling the user management can be found under in the menu “User”.
Login – enables to login with a defined user account.
Create User . . . – opens the dialog to define a new user.
Edit User . . . – provides to edit a user account.
Change Password . . . – opens the dialog to change the password of the user account.
Delete User . . . – enables to delete the user account from the workspace.
Tab:
User name
Password
Confirm password
E-Mail Address
Use as default user
Administrator
User
User
Defines the name of the new user.
Declares the password for the user authentication.
Retype the password for the confirmation.
Contact information for the user can be defined in this field.
Defines that the new user is the default user of the workspace.
Defines the new user as administrator of the workspace.
Defines the new user as non administrator.
Tab:
Workspace
Cost structure tree
Document tree
Meter tree
Cost centers tree
Resources tree
Tariffs tree
Explorer
Report
User rights
Define the access rights with Disabled, Read Only or Read/Write.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
Define the access rights for the field with Visible, Visible only or Full control.
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A. Appendix
A.1. Acronyms
USB Universal Serial Bus
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A.2. Licensing
Two different possibilites are available:
• Hardlock – Hardware based (Universal Serial Bus (USB) Dongle) security system
• Softlock – Software based security system
A.2.1. Hardlock
One of the solutions is hardlock. Just insert the USB-Dongle into any USB port in your system and let the hardware
driver get installed. The software will automatically recognize and read your license from the USB dongle. It might
be necessary to restart the software to make it recognize the license.
! The USB dongle has to be connected at all times from start of the application on. If it is disconnected the
correct work of the software will stop after two warnings (which is approximately after 15 minutes).
A.2.2. Softlock
In this case the software license is assigned to a local code that depends on a checksum of the local hard- and
software.
! The local code of the soft lock license can be changed by any major change of hardware (e.g. network
adapter) or software (e.g. operating system). After such change it might be necessary to license the software
again.
A.2.2.1. Software Licensing
The licensing process can be initiated by starting the “License Manager . . . ” from the “Info” menu of the NETx
MaRS Server Studio. During the start up of unlicensed version, it is possible to choose either the demo mode or to
“Enter License Tool . . . ”. In the Licence Tool all necessary information concerning the licensing process, as well as
the local code can be prompted.
The License Manager will show up with several fields:
• License ID – This block consists of 4 fields. Please fill in the License ID from your invoice.
• License Type – According to the invoice the type has to be selected. Meters and count of cost centers will
depend on it. If none of the predefined licenses matches please select “Custom”.
• Number of Meters – Put in the number of meters to be licensed in here. If the ordered was a predefined
package, this field is not editable but will show the according number of meters.
• Number of Cost Centers – Put in the number of cost centers to be licensed in here. If the ordered was a
predefined package this field is not editable but will show the according number of cost centers.
• Licensed Extensions – Check the extensions you have ordered in here.
• Local System ID – This is the local system key. It is automatically generated by the “License Manager”.
• License Code – This code contains most of the information above. It is generated automatically.
Once the above listed fields are all filled out with the correct information send an email directly to NETxAutomation
Software GmbH by clicking the according link. If there is no access to the Internet, choose the link “copy to
clipboard”. Open a text file in which the clipboard content needs to be inserted (usually via [Ctrl]+[V] or “Edit” and
“Paste”). Now send it from any other computer by mail to [email protected].
The following entries shall be in your clipboard or in your Email:
• License ID
• License Type
• License Code
• Local Code
• Date
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Figure A.1.: Software Licensing
Transmit this data to NETxAutomation Software GmbH to receive your “Unlock Code”. Once you got the unlock
information insert the code into the bottom field and click “OK”. Make sure you copy the “Unlock Code” without any
blanks, tabs or other white spaces. If you receive an error message after the process, check the given data and try
the registration again.
! The user executing the licensing software must be local administrator. The program needs to be started as
administrator.
A.2.2.2. Software Unlicensing
When it is planned to move the NETx MaRS from one system to another or the system will change (hardware upgrade), it is useful to unlicense the software. The unlicensing process can be initiated by starting the “Registration. . . ”
from the “Help” menu of the NETx MaRS Editor.
Press the “Transfer/Remove License” button to gain the removal code. Send this code to NETxAutomation Software
GmbH to receive the new “Unlock Code” to license the software on the new or upgraded system.
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A.3. Support and contact
Please send all your support questions to:
[email protected]
If you have general questions regarding the product and service please send your email to:
[email protected]
A.4. System Requirements
A.4.1. Hardware
• Processor: Intel or AMD (Multicore recommended) 1.6GHz
• System Memory: 2048MB
• Harddisk Space: 16GB (24GB recommended)
• Network Adapter: 100 MBit/s
• Screen Resolution: 1280 x 1024 Pixel (for Editor)
A.4.2. Supported Operating Systems
• Microsoft Windows 7 32bit Servicepack 1
• Microsoft Windows 7 64bit Servicepack 1
• Microsoft Windows 8 64bit
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 64bit
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 32bit Servicepack 2
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 64bit Servicepack 2
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Release 2 64bit Servicepack 1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012 64bit
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 64bit
A.4.3. Other
• .NET Framework: 3.5 or higher
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