Data Unload

Overview

The Unload process transfers a RSU's header and data to a proprietary-format binary data file known as a Dataset. An Unload can be performed at any time, without interrupting logging. At the end of a survey, the RSU should be stopped as part of the Unload process.

[Note] Note
Unloading data from a RSU does not erase the data from memory. All data remains until the next setup is performed, so data can be unloaded again if necessary, until the next setup.

Dataset Location

MCSetup uses the Base folder for unloaded data location specified in the Preferences to store unloaded data. MCSetup also supports automatic creation of a folder structure, based on a combination of a RSU's Site and Attribute, and the current year and month. Refer to the section MCSetup Configuration for details.

Naming Conventions

When unloading data from a RSU, the dataset's filename will be automatically generated. This is based on the RSU's Site parameter, and the current date.

The dataset's filename need only be unique. If a file by the same name already exists, an overwrite warning will be displayed. There is no need to make the dataset filename descriptive. When browsing for datasets with MCReport, files will always be listed by their key header details.

[Note] Note
The three character file extension is extremely important. Datasets are created with a file extension of .ecX where X is the lane number. MCReport uses this file extension to recognise MetroCount datasets. Do not change this file extension.

The Unload Process

If possible, unload a RSU's data before removing from the site. This provides an opportunity to view basic data quality, and collect further data in the unlikely event of sensor failure. An Unload should complete in under 10 minutes, dependent on capacity.

[Procedure] To unload data from a RSU
  1. Connect a RSU, and click the Unload button on MCSetup's main toolbar.

    If this is the first connection to the RSU, the "New connection" dialog will appear. A quick status check prior to an Unload is always good practice.

    Start of the Unload Wizard

    Start of the Unload Wizard

  2. If this is the end of a survey, check the Stop RSU after Unload option.

    Upon successful completion of the Unload, the RSU will be set to its Idle state, ready for a new setup. With this option unchecked, logging will not be interrupted.

  3. The suggested folder and file name will be as described previously. In the unlikely event that it needs to be changed, click the Change name button, remembering to keep the .ecX file extension.

  4. Click the Next button to continue the wizard.

  5. A confirmation dialog box is shown next, with any folders that will be automatically created shown in bold. Click the Start unload button to continue.

    Confirmation of folders and dataset to be created

    Confirmation of folders and dataset to be created

  6. During the Unload, a dynamic plot of the A and B hits is displayed as the data is transferred. For ideal classification data, the A and B plots will perfectly overlay.

    Unload progress showing sensor hits

    Unload progress showing sensor hits

  7. When the Unload is complete, click the Close button.

    If the option to stop the RSU was checked, use a quick status check or the RSU's status LEDs to verify the RSU is now inactive, to prevent unnecessary battery drain.